Two Weeks Notice

Well, I haven't been writing much in here because I feel like there's not much to update anyone. I doubt anyone really wants to here things like: woke up at 10 am, watched a few TV shows, got gas, met with my friends to cook dinner. That's pretty much the basis of my mundane life. I'm not complaining in the least, just explaining. I did have an exciting moment today, though. I finally turned in my 2 weeks notice J.Crew (a.k.a. the crew). Well, it's not exciting that I won't have anymore sweet deals, but it DOES mean that it's getting closer and closer to time for my German adventure.

My friend Laur and I got to chatting tonight (for some 3 or so hours, go figure), and I realized how much of a change I've seen in her. She has grown so much in so many ways over the course of our friendship, as well all do, but most obviously I've seen it spiritually in her these past few months. Our conversations often times drift into very humbling and inspiring conversations over points in theology. I just want to write a quick note to encourage her as she encourages me! Laur (or Springer--whatever you prefer), thanks for being there for me and listening when I've needed it. I hope I haven't embarrassed you :) *The picture is from a day we got to Disney, the happiest place on earth.*

Well, I think I've covered any important highlights in my life at the moment. Good night to all!

German word:
Was sagst du?--What are you saying?

Whatcha Got Cookin?

Tip of the Day (oh, my name is so pun-ny):
When searching for a new recipe, go to AllRecipes.com. I discovered how useful that website is. Users rate and comment on recipes, and let you know how the food really tastes, sometimes including ways to improve the awful to almost perfect. Cooking has never been a strength of mine, and as I don't like receiving poor results in anything in life, I've sought out teaching myself how to cook. Needless to say, it's a very slow process :) I love receiving pointers and new recipes if you have any!

Click here if you want a great gingerbread cookie recipe. I have somewhat of a sweet tooth..and if I'm not careful, it'll be a sweet cavity.

Happy Week before Thanksgiving. The Twilight movie comes out this coming weekend for anyone who loves Edward Cullen!

German Word:
kochen--to cook

This Nation

Well, I'm nervous about our new Presidential Elect. There, I said it. I didn't vote for him. I'm not ashamed. But, what comforts me to know is that God is still in control, no matter what human takes ahold of this nation. All things are done according to His purpose. It's been a week since the election, and people's nerves are calming down, including mine. I just hope all my suspicions are proven wrong (although I have to admit that deep down, I kinda hope they're right).

On a more positive note, Todd and Rebecca just returned from their honeymoon, two days late. One disappearing airplane, a cheap hotel with a sewage view, and an extra stay overnight in Charlotte later, that is. They were so happy to be home. We all are glad to have the Smiths back home too!

Happy November everyone... and don't worry, I don't think it's too early to listen to Christmas music!!

German Word:
das Handy--cell phone

The New Smith

Disclaimer: Lots of pictures = the illusion of a long post. sorry!

So this weekend's wedding--SUCCESS! amazing. phenomenal. superb. loverly. It was one of THE best weddings I've been to! Probably most of that had to do with the fact that I knew 80% of the people at the wedding/reception, and was related to another 7%. There were people there I hadn't seen in awhile, and then there were people who I hadn't seen in around oooh, 6 years, like Chuck Gatton! I was so excited to see my old swim coach! He looks exactly the same. It was so great to get to talk with him, if only for a little while. I cannot explain how great everything went. I am so happy for my big bro! And now the smith kids' tally has moved up to 5, and I finally have an "older sister"! yahoo!

To give a few details, the luncheon was great--some FINE chicken salad and meeting of some fellow bridesmaids. The rehearsal dinner was great, bringing a few tears to my eyes and preventing me from making a speech (I'm a chicken; no dry eyes, no talk). My brother knows what I would have said, though. That's what is important. Oh, and did I mention that the food there was great? My Aunt Judy made some homemade german (Ja Ja!) chocolate cake that I most willingly devoured. The wedding ceremony was a bit longer than I expected, and a lot different since it was at Rebecca's parents church and they are Episcopal. So it was not the 25 minute wedding that I'm used to, but it did have some good singing.

Then there was the reception. SO GREAT. After talking my voice box empty and listening my ear off, I learned I missed the bouquet toss (I still haven't figured out how or why no one came to get me??? not that I would try to catch that sucker..) along with the garter toss. BUT then the fun began. Corky pulled mom on the dance floor, and after finishing, let my dad take over. I think that's probably the first time I've seen my parents dance together & just so happened to capture the most amazing picture of them smiling so big! --> After 70% of the reception attendants left, the dancing was the best. The band played some sweet late 80s/early 90s music. In other words, the perfect genre. Caitlyn, Corky, Todd, and I started breaking it down once Thriller hit, but what got us truly in tune with the music was Bon Jovi-Livin' on a prayer. I wish I had it one video. I've never been out of breath from basically lip syncing a song, but boy did I break a sweat on that one! I love my family! And my guitar hero skills came out when Sweet Child of Mine came on.. I knew that guitar part by heart.

Anyways, Todd and Rebecca ran out through a line of cherished family and friends, sparkling the way to the car. It was a beautiful sight. They rode off in a Bentley and flew out for Antigua Sunday! I hope everyone who came had so much fun. I loved seeing faces long forgotten and can't wait to have more memories that equate with this weekend.


German word:
Neu--New