Friday, February 26, 2010

Happy Anniversary Maywalds!

Happy Anniversary Christine and Chad! Layne and I are so blessed to have your marriage as an example in our lives. Congratulations on another year of wedded bliss, and here's to many more!

With Sabrina and Scott's wedding this year, it's easy to reflect on how lucky we are to be surrounded by love. We're so glad you guys got to take a night off and celebrate. Much love!

Happy Birthday G-Baby!

I couldn't resist the opportunity to gush on my baby brother a little bit, since he turned 22 this week on the 23rd. All of a sudden, I'm starting to feel that I'm getting old at 27, and our family is REALLY old! It's weird when I think back to when we were kids... I actually have clear memories of you!
Layne and I were so excited to be there to celebrate your birthday this month during Mardi Gras. Thank you Abby and Doody for having us all over to celebrate. We had a great time just "being" with everyone.
As a kid Greg, you were one of a kind. You were charasmatic then, and you have continued to be one of the most charasmatic people that I know. Look at the way your foot is loving on Abby. You still have such a sweet spot in your heart- you're a lover, a cuddler, an open bro-mancer.

You stood out as a kid when we traveled as kids, and were asked to particiapate in events on stage. It happened all the time. It still happens now... except you're on national TV and the front page of the paper.
Over the past few years, you have matured so much. Your work hard, play hard mentality is a committment you have excelled at, and all of us are so proud that you will graduate as the Orkus with the highest GPA. Catherine is wonderful, and she brings out the good in you. I love seeing you so happy, and I love that you found someone that is such a good match for you.
You continue to bring your friends into our lives, and I am continuously amazed by the quality of these young men. The work hard, play hard right along with you, and value the same things. It's been impressive. When Layne and I come home, we enjoy spending time with them as well.
I am so thankful to have you as my little brother Greg. I love our phone conversations, and I love our time together. You're a great brother, but you're an even better friend. I've learned so much from you through the years, and I'm always inspired to be more like you. People gravitate towards you- you have a gift, and I can't wait to see how you put it to use in the future.
Life has good things in store for you, and Layne and I are thrilled to be your friends along the ride. After four tests this week, I hope you have a blast tonight. I love you!
And there is no saying Happy Birthday to Greg without saying Happy Birthday to Anne, Abby's BFF since they were 3 and our sista from another mother. We wish we could have been with you to celebrate this week!

Tuesday, February 23, 2010

NBA or NFL?

I love some good statistics. Thanks for passing these along Mom.

So what is your guess, is this the NBA or NFL?

36 have been accused of spousal abuse
7 have been arrested for fraud
19 have been accused of writing bad checks
117 have directly or indirectly bankrupted at least 2 businesses
3 have done time for assault
71 cannot get a credit card due to bad credit
14 have been arrested on drug-related charges
8 have been arrested for shoplifting
21 currently are defendants in law suits
84 have been arrested for drunk driving in the last year

SO... which organization is it? The NBA or NFL?

Neither, its the 535 members of the United States Congress.
I'm a believer that great rewards in life come at great risks, but this seems a little extreme to me. No wonder Washington D.C. is a mess right now.

Monday, February 22, 2010

Happy Monday!

I woke up to an email this morning from my "Aunt" Melanie (Huth), many of you know her daughter Heather who serenaded us at our wedding reception. Heather is also our godchild, and refers to Layne as her "Paran". Back to the point. Aunt Mel sent a beautiful prayer my way via email and I wanted to share it with all of you. I hope everyone has a great Monday and a wonderful week. I'll be thinking about you.

St. Teresa's Prayer

May today there be peace within.
May you trust God that you are exactly where you need to be.
May you not forget the infinite possibilities that are born of faith.
May you use those gifts that you have received, and pass on the love that has been given to you.

May you be content knowing you are a child of God.
May this peace settle into your bones, and allow yourself the freedom to sing, dance, praise, and love.
It is there for each and every one of us.

I know faith and religion are controversial subjects in general, and even within our friends. But faith is an anchor in my life, and is something that helps me to find inspiration daily. Thank you Aunt Mel, for sending some love my way, and for reminding me of the important things in life.

Friday, February 19, 2010

I Want...

I want a poodle, a toy poodle to be exact. And I've found a breeder in Spring, Texas. I just have to convince my husband of the plan.

I'm looking forward to taking a drive (only 20 miles) to see the puppies soon. As soon as I have a cell phone, or a buddy for the road.

I know Layne and I travel to be with family, but this is something I have been thinking about for awhile. And I've got some good arguments to back up my point.

Ask me about it. It'll be good practice for my next conversation with Layne!

Thursday, February 18, 2010

Who Dat Nation

(Be prepared for too much info below- but I couldn't resist.)

The city of New Orleans is alive and on fire... most people never believed that the Aint's could one day become the Saints and actually win a Superbowl. You see it everywhere- half the city still wears Saints attire everyday of the week, my brother Stephen included. You can hear it- the music was flowing on St. Charles Avenue and everyone loves "to stand up and get crunk." It flows through the blood of the people. People are thrilled, and just witnessing it will give anyone a thrill as well. It's unlike any sport event I've ever experienced. Who Dat!

Below are a couple of favorites:

You make not think much of this, but did you know that in the days following the Superbowl a significant portion of the state of Louisiana really did freeze over? It snowed, which is a real rarity, and even stayed on the ground. Layne and I drove through a snow covered Louisiana on our way into town!

And this, well, need I say much more? A friend of my brother made a bet with another one of their buddies at the second game of the year. He agreed to get a tattoo on his ass if the Saints won the Superbowl. Above is the proof.
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Tuesday, February 9, 2010

The Princess and The Frog

It was a wonderful day when my Frog Prince and I took our two favorite nieces to see the new Disney Film, The Princess and the Frog. The film was so different than the movie we grew up watching with our Granny and Grandpa, but it was a wonderful treat. The girls enjoyed the movie, I was transported back to New Orleans, Addie downed a bag of popcorn like it was going out of style. It was a nice afternoon date for the four of us, and I was truly thrilled to share the movie with the girls.
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Collin Andrew Hill

Like I mentioned before, it's baby mania over here in Dallas, Texas. Layne met Mark Hill at his previous job, and we've stayed close friends with the couple. They grew in New Orleans (on the Westbank) and went to O Perry Walker. Collin is such a sweet baby. For those of you in town for Labor Day weekend, you met them while the LSU game was on. Mark is the only person in Dallas who screams at the TV like my momma and I do. Mark got his degree from UNO, and Joy got hers from LSU. Mark is now the controller for Pan America and Joy is a manager for E&Y.
We can always use another Tiger fan up here, and I'm pretty thrilled the little man was born into the glorious reign of the Black and Gold.
They'll be in town for Mardi Gras as well from Wednesday through Sunday, so you may see them around the apartment. If so, say hello!
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Layne's Birthday Present

This post is way past due, but I wanted to share a few pictures with everyone. On our way home from Christmas in New Orleans, Layne and I made a pit stop in Shreveport, Louisiana for the Independence Bowl to see Texas A&M take on the University of Georgia. While the game didn't go our way (Gig Em over Go Dawgs these days, even in bowling season) we had a great time. It was Layne's first bowl game. We survived the cold weather, and I got to witness how impressive the Aggie faithful travel.
Like I told Layne, I will follow LSU sports across the country, and the same is true for Texas A&M. Gig Em Aggs! BTHO UGA!
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Friday, February 5, 2010

Let Us Join In Prayer

I lied. Please Join me in prayer before the weekend begins:

God, we ask your blessing upon all who participate in this event, and all who have supported our Saints. Our heavenly father, who has instructed us that the "saints by faith conquered kingdoms...and overcame Lions," grant our Saints an increase of faith and strength so that they will not only overcome the Lions, but also the Bears, the Rams, the Giants, and even those awesome people in Green Bay.

May they continue to tame the Redskins and fetter the Falcons as well as the Eagles. Give to our owners and coaches the continued ability to be as wise as serpents and simple as doves, so that no good talent will dodge our draft. Grant to our fans perseverance in their devotion and unlimited lung power, tempered with a sense of charity to all, including the referees.

May our beloved "Bedlam Bowl" be a source of good fellowship and may "The Saints go Marching In" be a victory for all, now and in eternity.

Written by Phillip M. Hannan, the Archbishop of New Orleans, in 1968

Happy 23rd Birthday Sissy!

This picture was from the big 1-9!
I could go on for days about my sister Abby. You all know her, and I have no doubt that in some way she has touched your heart- because that is who Abby is. She is always there with a note, a quote offering support and encouragement, saying something silly to make you smile. Abby is a wonderful friend. She will always put you first, and will never hesitate to go the extra mile to make you happy. Just for today, because it is your birthday, I will give you the title of "Daddy's Favorite." See- I know how to share.
Stephen, Gregory, and I are so lucky to have you as our sister. We love to spend time with you, and hang out with you. Your friends are our friends... just look to your husband for example. Thank you for giving me Annie, Lo, Megan, and the other amazing women in your life who are now apart of mine. I love that we can share those relationships, and I love that we share so much in common. I'm glad LSU was everything you wanted it to be, and that you stayed for all four years to truly live the collegiate experience. I couldn't have been prouder of you on your graduation day.

So many times I reflect on how proud I am of you- how special and amazing you are. And then I think I'm lucky, because I know that while I admire so much about you, I know it goes both ways. You may have been my little sister, and then my sorority sister... you will always be my sister, but more importantly you're my friend- one of my best friends, and not everyone can say that. I love how close you are to my friends. I love that you treat my husband like he is your brother and has been around for decades. You never forget to make the little things special.
Can I believe that you are 23 years old today? No. I remember sharing our room with twin beds. I forget about the bickering, or how much my mess drove you crazy. I remember whispering in the dark as mom yelled at us to fall asleep. I remember the dances you were constantly making up. I still think you could have been a Carmelette. I remember Canon D, on repeat, over and over.
And now here we are. You are 23 years old. I'll turn 27 later this year. You've gone back to school, and now I am too. No kids on the hips yet, but we have met wonderful men, made a commitment to them, and are making lives for ourselves. We both value the important things: faith, family, and friends. And although we live 550 miles away from each other, we make each other a priority. We spent twenty-something weekends together last year. It doesn't get any better than that.
I Love you Sissy. I am so proud of you. I wish I could be there tonight to celebrate your birthday dinner. Have fun. Till next week.... XOXOXO

Friday Randomness

1.) There is a stranger in the house this week. They are working on some patching and painting before we get the house up for sale. I keep forgetting what his name is. How wrong is that? Carlos? Oliver? I bet Layne knows. The bottom line is that I exercised this morning, and want to take a shower. Homeboy can't take a lunch break fast enough- just so I can jump in and out and get clean for our dinner date with the Newell's.

2.) WHO DAT! I have refrained from posting about the New Orleans Saints all season long, so I'll leave it at that. There is a lot of emotion tied to this game for me, and I'll be sure to share that once the season has ended. Be sure to keep your eyes open for my drunk brother Stephen on National TV. He'll be there, ready to "Stand up and get Crunk!"

3.) We're filing our taxes this weekend. Jointly, married, with an exemption for the house. This is a very, very good thing for Layne and I.

4.) It's carnival time. A week from today I'll be back in NoLA eating a real king cake.... with my Momma and Daddy.

5.) Life is good.

Thursday, February 4, 2010

Coming Out The Closet

When it comes to the world of blogging, how much is too much information? I have often debated blogging about certain topics, but then dismissed the idea because of my employer, or because the world wide web is so public... and somethings are meant to be private. Or are they?


Most of you already know that I struggle with a mental heath disorder, but I never mention it on my blog. And as a result, there is a lack of communication. My community of family and friends don't really know what is going on with Layne and I. I follow some bloggers who share their health issues, and I'm definitely jealous of the freedom they have. Being open with what is happening displays a level of confidence, sharing with loved ones allows them to be supportive. I guess I finally reached the point where I'm not afraid to throw it out there.

Yesterday on NPR, I was listening to the debate on "Don't ask, Don't tell," in the military. How do homosexuals live like this? They are who they are, and by omitting it, they leave out a slice of themselves. I don't want to love 90% of someone. I want to accept them completely, for who they are, the good, bad, and ugly. (Not that homosexuals are bad and ugly. That wasn't what I was saying.)


So I've decided that is it past time to purge myself and "come out the closet" to my family and friends about my mental health disorder. Most of you know, some of you don't, some know but we don't talk about it... so here it is. Just like an AA meeting...


Hi everyone! My name is Mitzi, and I'm bipolar. (Acknowledging it is half the battle. It's easy to forget something is wrong when the medicine is working and you feel so good.) I was diagnosed right after I graduated from college in June 2006, and have spent the last 3.5 years learning to deal with the disorder and cope with it. After time, I've been diagnosed as type II bipolar with depression tendencies, and I'm a rapid cycler.


What does this mean? Well, I suffer from a mood disorder that is characterized by an abnormally elevated mood called hypomania. It's a milder version than the mania that someone who is type I would suffer. I have a tendency to suffer more with depressive episodes, and as a rapid cycler, when my medication is not working, I rapidly alternate between the highs and the lows (hence the term cycling).

I went to the doctor two weeks ago because Layne and I had noticed some severe hypomanic traits. We changed my medications to try to get everything in control, and I went back to the doctor this week. Layne came with me for the first time, and it was really the right thing. He asked a lot of basic, practical questions, and it was good for me to be comforted and reassured by a medical professional. The doctor said that dealing with this disorder takes a combination of patience and hope. It can be hard to hold on to those two things when you're fighting off the lows, but I have an amazing community of family and friends that are my lifeline and my support. Now we're in the waiting phase- it'll take a few weeks for my new prescription combination to take affect. Layne and I are tracking my sleep and my moods, and paying attention to the details we need too.

Layne has been amazing. A-M-A-Z-I-N-G.

I feels good to have been able to share such a major part of our lives with the blog. This is who I am. This is what our life entails. When we don't share these details with our family and friends, it almost always ends badly, so I highly recommend everyone comes out the closet- it's a huge relief off the chest.

Tuesday, February 2, 2010

My New Friend


It's past time that I introduce my friends and family to the newest love in my life... Ellyson Jane Newell, daughter of Ben and Jessica. There isn't much to say other than that Layne and I absolutely love and adore her. We are so happy for our friends, and look forward to watching Elly grow into a beautiful young women!

Preparing...

We're moving, so my #1 job for the next few weeks is to get this house ready. I'm taking down pictures, packing up the bookcases, and running back and forth to Lowe's to finish "projects" all over the house. Pictures of our new blinds Mrs. Carmen helped install are coming soon. So far, so good. Just crank up the tunes (or some sports talk radio) and I am rocking and ready to go.

Better get back to work. I've got alot to get accomplished before the hubby gets home!

Monday, February 1, 2010

Lil Bambinos..

It seems slightly odd, but lately we have been surrounded by babies. Friends from college, friends from high school, and now our friends here in Dallas are becoming parents as well. Friday night was spent with Ben Newell and his little angel Ellyson. Saturday, we went and visited Collin Andrew, Mark and Joy Hill's newborn, and then we went north to play with Reece and Addison.

Let me be clear: Layne and I don't want kids at this point in our life. We've got some growing up to do still, and we're content to just be "us" for the moment. But there is nothing like a newborn to brighten your day. I love feeding, changing diapers, the whole nine yards... and look forward to having several kiddos on my hips one day in the future.

Right now I'm off to the mall with Joy Hill. She want to walk to get some excercise in, and I am always up for a workout buddy. Besides, a little window shopping never hurt!