Brina's Birthday Dinner

I know, I know... Brina's birthday was well over a month ago. But I'm behind on blogging everything and am determined to share pictures and catch up. We had a wonderful night to celebrate Brina's Birthday in downtown McKinney. The Maywald's had parents night out, and while I love the minis it is always nice to spend time with just Christine and Chad. We tried out this great tapas restaurant, and just all snacked on an amazing variety of food. Unfortunately, my mind has blanked. Where were we?

And I was excited to get new pics of the adults in the fam.

Christine and Chad

The Birthday Girl Brina and Scott

Layne and I

Hope you had a wonderful birthday Sabrina! We're looking forward to celebrating many more in the future! And a special thanks to Scott for getting us all together.

Thankful on A Thursday

Here we are, and another week has flown by. It's time for Thankful on a Thursday, and I know I am so blessed. My cup is overflowing... let me share what I am extra thankful for this week!

11.) My friends are like my family, and my family are my friends.

This is a picture of two of my favorite people, Lauren "McQ" Martinez and Claire "Ma Rie" Poche'. Claire is my younger cousin and McQ is my sorority sister and college roommate. I cannot express how much these two women have shaped me into who I am today, or how thankful I am for their influence. McQ is a friend who has become a part of our family- Abby calls her for advice, and Gregory has already told me she's invited to his wedding. Our parents have become friends, and still take advantage off opportunities to spend time together when we're both in town. And while Claire is my younger cousin, we don't have to be friends. We don't have to be close as adults, but I am so thankful we are. And to top it off, McQ and Claire even share a special relationship with each other. I just makes life so nice.

12. My Nieces (Sorry Lucy- Doody's Black Lab- only the non-furry variety today)
Addison and Reece just light up our lives. They are Christine and Chad's girls, and they have our hearts in the palm of their hands. Addison definitely looks like Christine's side of the family (The Anderson side- Mrs. Carmen's family) and Reece looks just like a Maywald. We love playing with our little angels, seeing their art projects and work from school. I leave listening to Reece read me a book, or watching a classic Disney movie with a bowl of popcorn to share. I love seeing them grow up- it's amazing how much more comfortable they have become in the pool over the summer. And I CAN NOT BELIEVE Reece is starting 1st grade. When I met her in 2006, she had just turned three. She didn't really make much sense then, but boy has that changed. And Addison wasn't even around when I met Layne. The first time I met Christine, she was 8 months pregnant. I love, love, love, our minis... and hope there will be many more in the future. (No pressure Brina & Scott, Abby & Doody.... and definitely no pressure Steve Eaux or Gerald)

13. My Aimes

And I can call her "my Aimes," because I'm the only one that spells it like that. I don't know why I've never taken to the Ames everyone else has, but there is no point in switching now. It's ingrained. First, a very Happy Birthday wish to my Old Maid Aimes! (She's actually 3 months younger than I am, which is why I love to tease her about growing up. I don't think I'm going to like hitting 30 first!) Amy shared the most beautiful quote with me the other day. "Like branches of a tree we grow in different directions, but our roots remain as one." Most people can't understand what it's like to have a friend that was there the day you were born. We don't know life without each other. From selling girl scout cookies to tennis leagues, playing against each other for the playgrounds and grammar schools, to first kisses and drivers ed... the good, the bad, and everything in between... we've been there and done it. And while we've gone our own ways and done our own things, it's nice to know that what we have can never be taken away. It's too much of a part of who we are.

14. KRLD Restaurant Week

Last night Layne and I went on a date to Dallas Chop House. It's a steakhouse downtown in walking distance of our loft- and I surprised Layne with a reservation there for Restaurant Week. I love restaurant week! It allows us to try out some of the best restaurants in Dallas for a great deal. $35 will get you a three course meal at the restaurant of your choice, $7 of which goes to charity. It's fun to hear where other people are going, and I love how the food critic comes out in each of us. The Chop House was okay- definitely not a top five steakhouse in town. But it's our steakhouse, and we enjoyed walking over and strolling through downtown. It was a wonderful date night, and can wait to hear results from other friends.

15. The Junior League

I know I mentioned this earlier in the week, but I am so thankful to be apart of the league. I have already met amazing women, and I can't wait to get involved in the community. My next meeting is in September, and our guest speaker will be Collins Tuoy (sp?) from "The Blind Side." Sports and the Junior League? Who would have thought? This could be H-E-A-V-E-N.

That's it for Thankful on a Thursday this week. I hope your weekend is full of blessings that bring a smile on your face- and that you can find time to give thanks for those things too! XOXO!

Girls Trip III

"After all, you can't truly be happy if you've never known pain. You can't truly feel joy if you've never felt heartbreak. You can't really know what it's like to be filled unless you've been empty." -Kelly Cutrone

I saw this quote on facebook this week. Heather Huth sent it to Amy Armstrong, and it made my heart break... because it's true. If I could, I would have done anything to take the pain away from both of them. Two of my closest friends, two of my oldest friends... I hate that they have to carry around the baggage that they do. No one should lose a sibling so early in life. But the truth is that by the time someone is in their late twenties, almost all of us have something we're carrying around. I just consider myself lucky to have them there. Without saying words, those two know exactly what to say and do to bring a smile on my face. Our last girls trip was to Fort Lauderdale in April, but we're due again. It's been a tough spring/summer. So what do we have slated for the Fall? NEW YORK CITY! I know I can't take away their hurt, just like they can't deal with mine for me.... but just being together makes all the difference.

(Thank GOD Layne understands that!)

Life is Good. So good...

There is no way I will be able to blog about this weekend without sounding like a giddy little school girl, but I guess that is what happens when your heart is filled with joy.

For years now, I have prayed for a group of friends to call my own- not that Layne and I didn't have amazing friends before, because we do... but they weren't my own. There wasn't anyone I connected with on a "girl crush" level. No girlfriend that I could not only talk to everyday, but see as well. No one can replace the relationships I've established in my life to date, but I have wanted something more for so long. And I finally found it. It's crazy how life works. Layne's college roommate for 3 years is his best bud, Nick Holmes. Nick dated Sharon for a few years in college, and Sharon and Layne were the only two to move to Dallas post college. Now Sharon is getting married in September, and Layne and I are looking forward to the destination wedding at the Excellence Playa Mujeres.

Throughout all these wedding activities, I met a girl named Arundel Belll, who Sharon met through the Junior League. More on that in a bit. Arundel is the friend I spent so long praying for. Layne and I met her at a shower for Sharon and Brandon. I watched Layne and Arundel talk for 45 minutes before I interrupted them. When she walked away, Layne told me he just met the most interesting person he has ever met. I didn't believe him, but now I understand why. Arundel and I couldn't be more different, but I love our friendship. We both accept and cherish each other for who we are. No need to put on a face or fake a smile, no judgement. Next to Layne, Arundel was my biggest supporter when it came to school. She never failed to call and see how a big project or test went. When I'm not feeling like myself, she is there. What she doesn't understand, she figures out. And when I need an outfit, she is the first one to help me get it organized. It is such an incredibly blessing, and she has just as amazing of a relationship with Layne. I love hearing them laugh and cut up together.

Through Arundel, we've made some great friends. Alti and Bella live across the street from us in the Dallas Power & Light Building. Alti is best friends with Kevin who married Liz who is best friends with Arundel from childhood. We have walked into an amazing group of friends who we mesh so well with. We're constantly doing impromptu dinners during the week, and I'm amazed at how many people can get comfy in our tiny loft.

And on top of that, my Junior League provisional year has officially started. I went on an overnight retreat on Saturday/Sunday, and it was the most fun I have had in Dallas in years. The whole event was all based on getting to know people- and I had a blast. It was so easy to be myself, and it felt so good to be accepted for just being me. I met several girls who are going to be volunteering with me at the Museum of Nature and Science later this year. (I signed up to put on an event called Reptile Week. I bet you can't wait for more details about that!) I know this organization is right for me. I love the people, I love service aspect, and I love that I'm going to grow into a better person as a result of it all. Tonight I have a provisional meeting, and then I'm going out for dinner and drinks with some new girlfriends I met this weekend.

What can I say? Life is good, and I thank God for that everyday. The sun doesn't always shine. Sometimes you have to dance in the rain and hold on to hope like it's all you have left. But the clouds have passed over us right now, and we're living it up as much as we can. It's amazing what you can find at the end of the rainbow.

Thankful on A Thursday

I have come to love Thursdays now. I look forward to sharing and giving thanks for all of the blessings in my life- large and small. This week is no different.

7.) I'm thankful for a family that is musically inclined, and that my family's passion has been passed on to me.
Tonight I'm off to the theater to see DCI 2010: Big, Loud & Live 7. DCI (drum corps international) is a group of professional marching bands that travel throughout the season performing across the country, and then culminates in a World Championship. The music is amazing. Their movements are precise. It's technical, challenging, and a pleasure to watch. We were fortunate to see several corps perform when we were kids, and I'm excited about tonight. I may be flying solo in Dallas, but it's fun to know my family will be watching the same thing at the same time as me.

8.) I love College Football live.
Seriously- it's a half and hour of heaven everyday. Today, Texas A&M received some serious praise- the best passing attack in the Big 12. And everyone agreed, Texas A&M will beat OU at Kyle Field this year, marking the rise of the Mike Sherman era at A&M. I'll be honest, it gave me goosebumps. I feel like good things are in store for our Aggies, and we're getting pumped. And while there are lots of things to be said about LSU, that may be better on another post. :)

9.) I am thankful for our Doody.I know I have a seriously case of oldest child syndrome. I always have. And as a result, I'm a little mother hen. I always want to make sure my siblings are okay. Their happiness is so important to me. I want them to celebrate life, to live and love to the fullest. Their joy is my joy- and that is what I love about family. So to see my sister with Dustin, well... it's one of the most beautiful things in the whole world. Dustin is an amazing man. His character is upstanding. Gregory said it best- the world needs more men like Doody. I love Doody like I love my brothers. I love the way he loves my sister, and I love the way he loves our family. I am SO thankful for our Doody. There is no one else I'd rather have for a brother -in-law. St.Bernard Fire Department is lucky to have a man like you.

10.) The Camellia Grill It's rare that we stumble across such a significant place in New Orleans that Layne hasn't experienced. Even though we've only been together four years, Layne has done an amazing job of checking out New Orleans like a local would. So when we landed 1:30 later than planned and options for dinner were limited, Camellia Grill came to mind. And once we figured Layne was a first timer, it was a must. Abby met us there around 11pm, and we let Layne enjoy the fine dining experience.When Camellia Grill re-opened after Hurricane Katrina, it became a special symbol of the rebirth and rebuilding of the city. It reminded me of another little thing I love about home, the community, and it was the perfect welcome home.

Lookig forward to August in Texas

I am done complaining about how hot it is in Dallas, Texas. Yes, the temperature often rises above 100 degrees. Yes, you are going to get a sunburn if you stand in the sun. It's hot. It's uncomfortable. But it is bearable- just find some shade.

New Orleans gave me an attitude adjustment. You walk outside, your glasses fog up. You immediately begin to sweat. And it doesn't stop. It'll be 10pm and you are still sweating just like it was 3pm. In the sun or in the shade, it doesn't matter. The humidity is everywhere.

Don't get me wrong, I love Nola, and I accept it for steam bath that it is. But it sure did make me happy to come back to Dallas in August.... 100+degree weather and all.

Zach's 30th Party Boat

What better way to start the summer than a day on Lake Travis with your best friends from college? We couldn't think of one- which is why me made a Saturday day trip to Austin just six days before we moved out of the house. Layne's college roommate Zach Inman turned 30, and his wife Julie threw a surprise party boat celebration!

Layne and the Birthday Boy, all grown up!

We grabbed a bite to eat at Carlos and Charlie's on the water, and then got back in the car for the ride back home. He caught a good nap, and I caught up with friends on the phone. It was a good time, and it was great to see that group of friends. We don't get together often enough.

Thankful on a Thursday is back again, and this week it down to the basics.

6.)Going Home to New Orleans

One of the best feelings in the world is waking up in the morning on a day I am going "home." Although Dallas is where Layne and I choose to be, New Orleans will always represent home in some way, because home is where the heart is. And in case you haven't noticed- a big piece of both of our hearts is there.

Thankful on A Thursday

I have a friend from high school named Gini, and although we haven't kept over the years, I found her blog and I love it. I love her financially savy coupon trifecta tips, and more importantly, I love Thursday. So much, that I wanted to bring Thankful on a Thursday to you. I think this is a beautiful thing that I am really going to enjoy. So in no particular order...

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1.) I am thankful for my sisters.

I have one sister in a league of her own, but I have multiple others who consistantly change my world for the better. I love that we stay close though we may be far, and I never doubt that you'll be there in my moment of need. I am truly blessed for each one of you.

2.)Faith, Family, Friends
It's such a simple statement, but it holds so much meaning in my life. It's our family motto, an exclamation of our top priorities. I reflect on it daily, and it keeps me gounded in our roots.

3.)My Husband and Best Friend Layne.
I don't know if it's worth attempting to explain. The man may not be perfect, but he is completely perfect for me.

4.)I love being in school... For Real.
I have really loved being a sudent, and I am so thankful for everyone's love and support. It has meant the world to Layne and I as we make these transitions in our life. We love haveing you with us on the ride...

5.)My Account Test Grade
I studied all on Thursday. Student all day Friday until 7pm Birthday dinner for Erol. Saturday- all day. 12+ hours. All worth it- got my highest grade yet on a test!

Looking forward to sharing more next Thursday...

Holland

It's been forever since I last blogged. I got caught up with the move, vacation, not having the Internet, a rush of school work, and July has passed us by. I have so much to share with you- and especially want to thank my reading for the emails, facebook messages, and phone calls telling me to get myself together.

After such a long hiatus, where do I start? Passing along something good... this is an analogy a friend shared with me. Although it is written within the context of a mother raising a disabled child, I really found that it could be applied to anyone who is dealing with the loss of a dream of their own. I was so touched, and I hope you enjoy it as well.

Welcome to Holland

by Emily Pearl Kingsly

I am often asked to describe the experience of raising a child with a disability - to try to help people who have not shared that unique experience to understand it, to imagine how it would feel. It's like this...

When you're going to have a baby (fill in with personal experience here), it's like planning a fabulous vacation trip- it Italy. You buy a bunch of guide books and make wonderful plans. The Coliseum. The Michelangelo David. The gondolas in Venice. You may learn some handy phrases in Italian. It's a very exciting.

After months of eager anticipation, the day finally arrives. You pack your bags and off you go. Several hours later, the plane lands. The stewardess comes in and says, "Welcome to Holland."

"Holland?!?" you say. "What do you mean Holland?? I signed up for Italy. All my life I dreamed of going to Italy."

But there's been a change in the flight plan. They've landed in Holland and there you must stay.

The important this is that they haven't taken you to a horrible, disgusting, filthy place, full of pestilence, famine, and disease. It's just a different place.

So you must go out and buy new guide books. And you must learn a whole new language. And you will need to meet a group of people you never would have met.

It's a different place. It's slower-paced than Italy, less flashy than Italy. But after you've been there for while and you catch your breath, you look around... and you begin to notice that Holland has windmills... Holland has tulips. Holland even has Rembrandts.

But everyone you know is busy coming and going from Italy, and they're all bragging about what a wonderful time they had there. And for the rest of your life, you will say "Yes, that's where I was supposed to go. That's what I had planned."

And the pain of that will never, ever, ever, ever go away... because the loss of that dream is a very very significant loss.

But... if you spend your life mourning the fact that you didn't get to Italy, you may never be free to enjoy the very special things, the very lovely things... about Holland.

It's good to be back. I've missed the blogging world. Can't wait till fill you in on what we've been up and get some summer photos on the blog!