jamo-c

A little on life

2010-08-02T11:56:00.002-05:00

Don't worry -- this isn't going to be profound by any means....just a little recap of life these days since I haven't posted in over a month.

Had a wonderful weekend with my husband. We got to really enjoy the weekend with nothing that we HAD to go and do besides Church on Sunday and sleeping in on Saturday (that was my contribution to the weekend!).

On Friday evening after dinner with some friends at Texas Tradition, R and I played Wii for a few hours (yes hours) but it wasn't Mario Bros this time, it was Wii Sports Resort. We ended up playing every 2+ person game and laughed and laughed! It was so nice to just relax, although a friendly compeition was going on during the games, and not THINK about anything!!! And it was just he and I and that's always a bonus.

Saturday he started tackling the garage and WOW he did GREAT!!!! He built himself a workbench from wood that was left in the home when it was built. So our cost was $0. MAGIC! It looks great and REALLY helps with storing his tools and all that. I was going to get the camera and snap some pics, but opted to just watch him and help out as I could. That evening we were back at Texas Tradition! ha! It's so YUM!

Sunday was Church and I'm so glad we went. I haven't been in quite awhile to a regular Sunday mass, it felt so good. Afterwards it was back home to tackle the garage again and we really put a dent in it! We'll probably get a few more shelves for the back wall and then it'll be really good to go! That evening after a long HOT HOT HOT day of work, we went 'into town' to hang out with his BF Mitch and his wife, son, brother and brother's gal. We swam for awhile, ate pizza and managed to get home around 10:30. I was EXHAUSTED and slept the 30 minute drive back to Katy. Thanks BABE for driving me home.

This morning was tough one to wake up to. In one week I'll be boarding a plane BACK to Egypt for 26 days. I'm SO not looking forward to it. :-( I know I'm truly blessed to see these places, but 3.5 weeks is a long time to be away from those you love, in a remote place, in a hotel, without fresh foods that you can eat without worrying about getting sick or how sick you'll get, without being stared at cause you're a Westerner or whatever. But, I'm trying to see if either Robert can come over on my miles I've earned OR see if I can get down to Luxor, in the lower Nile Valley to REALLY see some AWESOME ruins. Wish me luck.

This week I don't have stained glass class, but really am proud of the work I've done. I do have pictures of my Texas flag which I'll post as soon as I download them. Can't wait to get started on my BIG project for the bedroom. Guess that'll come in September!!!!

Have a great, blessed and prosperous week!

Wiiiiiiiiiiii!!

2010-07-20T10:25:00.004-05:00

So Matt decided to use all his birthday money to buy a Wii for our household. We went and got it a few weeks ago and it hasn't been played all THAT much, but when the boys are at the house (and aren't grounded, in trouble, whatever) LOL, they are sure to be on the Wii.

I got us Super Mario Brothers for the Wii and it's sooooo much fun. Played it for the first time over Christmas with Jill and Thomas....and we played for HOURS and supposedly Nick and I were the game hogs, but I think everyone was just jealous at our mad skills! LOL

We have 4 controllers at our house and on Sunday night it was a Wii - Super Mario night! Robert, Jenny, Nick and I played for 4.5 hours and we LAUGHED and LAUGHED and had so much fun trying to get past a level!!! It was NOT easy with FOUR players - Mario, Luigi and 2 mushroom-heads! Of course Jenny and I were showing our skills this time'round (we were good back in the day)....and Nick and Robert kept foiling our plans! LOL I think I went to bed at 1:15 a.m. and had to get up at 5:15 for work. Holy cow...I"ll be suffering all week for that, but it was worth it.

I cant wait to play again!!! Hopefully me and my 3 boys can have a game night one day this week while we have them with us!

Thanks Jill + Tom for introducing us to our new addiction! :)

Happy Wii'ing y'all!

Pioneer Woman????

2010-07-14T09:49:00.002-05:00

Ok, isn't it funny sometimes how you can NEVER hear of something and then within 15 minutes hear of it 2 or 3 times?

That's my case today, with Pioneer Woman.

So I was wishing Shylo a happy birthday when I saw some new pics of Miss Karli and was perusing then saw a "Pioneer Woman" book signing. I thought, hum, wonder what that is. Must be good if someone's willing to wait HOURS in a line to have the author sign the book.

Oh well, I went along with my business.

To then be reading Jocelyn's latest blog and she had a hyperlink to Pioneer Woman's website. Ok -- now it's getting too freaky. I HAD to check it out.

and now I've spent the best part of an hour engulfed in her Marlboro Man story and how she's gone from city slicker to ranchhand, all be cause of Marlboro Man. I've made it through about 10 of her stories and am going to have to start the "From High Heels to Tractor Wheels" bit. There's about 30 entries to that! It's REEEEEEEALLY good! A true to life love story.

check it out: http://thepioneerwoman.com/blog/category/black_heelstractor_wheels/the_night_i_met_marlboro_man/

It's an addicting, worth-while, love story. Being a country girl gone to the city, I can see how she was smitten with a cowboy from the second she laid eyes on him!!!!

AND....the book signing I think was for her cookbook....which hold some pretty tasty-looking recipes.

So thanks ladies, for my newfound addiction!

xx - jamie

Happy 4th of July -- God Bless America

2010-07-01T14:22:00.003-05:00

May you have a WONDERFUL fourth of July.....remembering what it stands for and who gave us our freedoms over the past 200+ years!May the fireworks brighten your night .... and delicious BBQ decorate your table!

Hee Hee Happy 4th folks!!! See ya in SHINER!

So much has happened in 3 months!

2010-06-30T09:24:00.004-05:00

Wow!!! I truly cannot believe I have not blogged since the day after we bought the house! SOOO much has happened. Maybe it's time for a quick recap???

Love love love our new home. Movers came on April 2nd and we're now all moved in!!! We put in woodfloors (Robert did the job, I assisted) in the dining and study and they look AWESOME!!!!! Love love love them!

April 11th - my wonderful nephew became my godson. We baptised Brody in Wharton and celebrated Jenny's birthday!

April 17th - married my best friend, so now I have a new last name. Married life is AWESOME! Didn't know I could love him more than I did before....but I do! It was THE most PERFECT day of our lives! And a total party!!!

April 18th - 24th - Honeymoon in Costa Rica! AMAZING!!!

Last week of April Robert left me for work in California and I finished up moving the old house junk to the new house. Cleaned it from top to bottom and was HAPPY HAPPY HAPPY when that was all done!

Returned to work May 3rd, flights booked May 5th and departed for a 3-week trip to Cairo May 10th. :( Soooooo did not like being away so soon!

Back on Memorial Day weekend and we finished the dining room floors and just hung out.

June 5th married my sister Jill off. Mom and Dad can have a break for a little bit on wedding bills. It was a great wedding!!!

June 22nd - 27th - Girls Trip to Belize. Oh so much fun!!! Even survived as Tropical Storm Alex came right through our island!!!

This brings us to 4th of July weekend....with all good luck I'll be at Splashway on Friday and in Shiner for the BBQ cookoff Saturday, and back home on Sunday.

Supposedly I'm heading back to Cairo in August - early September....so that should be interesting.

I will try to be a better blogger, friends!

Our First Home

2010-03-24T14:38:00.004-05:00

We are so excited!!!! Right now it's just a house...but as soon as we start moving into it, it will quickly become HOME! And we cannot wait!

Robert and I and the boys will be quite happy here, I'm certain! It met all of our criteria and if it was on 20 acres of land in Shiner, it'd be considered our Dream Home!! :)

So yesterday, we signed a bunch of papers and are now owners of our own place!

We'll reside in this 4 bedroom, 3 bath, 3-car garage house in Katy at least for the next 10 years. After that....it's wherever the wind blows us!!!

We're the corner house of the cul de sac.

The front door entry way

The entry way -- it's really pretty

Wide view of the entry. The master bedroom is off to the left and the study is to the right.

A kitchen to be proud of !!!!

The Den

The master bedroom

We are very happy with our purchase and cant wait to start moving in!!!!! As you can tell from the pics below:

Popping the top!

Our first things to move in!!

The very soon to be.....Mr. & Mrs.

And my trusty Shiner Beer Box....:)

Tomorrow is

2010-03-12T11:33:00.002-06:00

my 33rd birthday.

I'm a little uneasy about it ... but only a little. I just keep thinking -- 33 is closer to 35 which is closer to 40! And I can't round DOWN anymore! :)

It'll be fine. Heading to Shiner for pretty much about 32 hours, if that, then back to Houston for Rodeo on Sunday. Only 3 more shows for me to go to work!! YEA!!!!

Hopefully the weather is good and that'll make me the happiest -- not to mention I'll be with my family and best friend!!! Now THAT's a birthday worth smiling about!

Egypt - February 2010

2010-02-21T05:21:00.006-06:00

Photos from my recent (and on-going) trip to Cairo:

Church in the side of Mokkatam Mountain. These are carvings in the side of the mountain. I cannot get the church pics to upload! :(
St George Church in Coptic Cairo

The Egyptian Museum -- it was AWESOME!

The Great Sphinx at Giza with 1 of the 3 Pyramids behind it.

Me at Giza

Keeping the Pyramids help upright! :)
Felucca (sailboat) cruise along the Nile River. Beautiful and SO relaxing!

2 weeks ago today -- IT's A BOY!!!

2010-02-16T05:37:00.004-06:00

Yes, 2 weeks ago today we welcomed Mr. Brody Nicholas Popp into this world!

Jenny had a relatively smooth, natural delievery and what a trooper she was! Nick was so supportive and definitely a proud papa!

Brody is just the sweetest thing!! He's so awesome! We are so happy he's finally here!!!

He has a doting Aunt Jamie! (& Uncle Robert too)!

Lots going on these days

2010-02-01T10:21:00.003-06:00

As if my life isn't busy....Feb - June will be exceptionally busy!

This week -- talk about CRAZY!!! First off -- can anyone believe it's February FIRST today? I honestly cannot! It marks about 75 days till the wedding. I'm ready for it to be here!

Tomorrow Jenny should be going into labor. She goes in tonight and tomorrow they are going to start inducing. I am SO excited to see if I'm going to have a niece or a nephew. I'm happy either way -- I just want them BOTH (mom & baby) to come out happy and HEALTHY! The baby is so loved by so many already!

Wednesday is mom & Uncle Allen's 53rd birthday!!! (which means mine follows a short time after!!) I know Mom will be on CLOUD 9 holding the new addition to our family!!! I believe she will be staying with Jenny for the rest of the week, so she'll get her long-awaited birthday present! Plus -- my gift to her is something she's been asking for for months now! EXCITING!

Thursday -- I'll need to get some work done probably, and not to mention Robert might be heading away again.

Friday is my day off so I'll probably go to Wharton to see sis and baby!!!

Saturday is a wedding and a birthday party and then Sunday is superbowl!!! Next week -- SHIT! I may be in Libya or Egypt or likely BOTH! Holy cow! When I get back it'll be the start of Rodeo and we all know how busy that is, then it'll be April 17th and I'll be walking down an aisle.

WOW! I'm tired just thinking about it!!!!!!

I hope everyone is doing well! I went through some of my pictures yesterday and WOW I've got 1,000's to upload! We've been BUSY and I've not been showing it! :) So I promise -- pictures coming soon....

100 days

2010-01-07T15:35:00.003-06:00

Yes...in 100 days I'll be walking down the aisle. That scares me a little...only cause there are still many things to do, but excites me a lot cause our dream will finally come true!

Beach on Naxos Island, Greece

2009-12-10T11:14:00.001-06:00

One of the beaches we hung out at for several hours, taken from my phone. It was GORGEOUS. The clearest water I've ever seen....

Snow!

2009-12-10T08:53:00.003-06:00

Some pics from our SNOW DAY on Friday, December 4, 2009!

First site of swow on the ground. This accumulated around one of the trees that surrounds my office in Downtown.

Look at the Tahoe!!! It's first snow EVER! (and she's 9 yrs old!)

Preeeeety stuff! No sun coming through the sunroof today!
The Tahoe at home....where the trees were getting covered but our front yard didn't due to the oak trees. But that's ok...I drove around and took lots of pics.

Those will come later.....

NASCAR -- oh yes!

2009-11-12T15:45:00.005-06:00

I just realized I never posted this!!! I think I wanted to be all cute and stuff and write lots about our trip to NASCAR....but I think I'll just give you the run-down here: It was GREAT!!! Yes, I am attesting that watching NASCAR in PERSON was good fun! Never watch it on TV and won't start...but will be glad to go again next November. (Our wedding is the same weekend as the April race and we're not honeymooning at NASCAR...I didn't like it THAT much!) ha ha ha

Robert and I gave Dawn and Scotty tickets and the whole 9 yards for birthday/Christmas and we had a blast!!!! Ted and Lecia went too and it was good fun!

Enjoy the pics: Here there are: Circle 1 of 300???

Lined up in the Pit:

VERY COOL flyover -- which the Pace Car came out of when it landed!!!!

Dude -- you're #9 flag is backwards!! LOL Redneck!

Watching the race:

One of the youngest drivers (forgot his name) who drives for Home Depot. He's like 18! what a job!

Me and Robert!

Dale Jr's truck -- one of like 4 he had there!

Robert racing Scotty to change the tire. I was in the LEAD all day until the last 5 minutes for the women's division!!! WOO HOO!!

church in Libya - always something new

2009-10-09T01:10:00.004-05:00

It's always an interesting thing to go to Church here....I've come to find out.
The inside of the church as taken by my phone.

The very first time I came, back in july, Michael invited me. I walked in to the 6pm Thursday night mass and there were only about 20 people in there. He was asked to be the reader.

The second time was last Friday morning at the 10:30 mass. Michael advised to go to this one because it's more of an African mass. So Ben (a colleague) and I went. It was interesting. And a special treat. Talk about a CROWDED HOUSE! And EVERYONE was singing and praying and it was so beautiful. The men were shoutin' to the Lord, of sorts. I loved it! The balcony on both sides of the church was full as was every seat and extra ones. I videoed the entrance cause it was cool! You'll see the choir marching, followed by the priests, followed by the BISHOP! It was the Feast of St Francis of Assisi last week. So an added treat. Church was right at an hour and half.

So last night I went to Thursday mass on my own. I get there right at 6, walk in and sit down. Start my prayers then notice the guy in front of me had a cake, and there were 2 chairs with ribbons and the kneeler in front of the alter, not to mention there were about 30 people there, and music, and a projector and people just buzzing around. And then it was 6:05, 6:10, 6:15...finally it started. Turns out, it was an engagement mass for a couple. They were up at the altar and exchanged rings. Both received a gold band for their right hand. AND the bride got earrings, a bracelet, a necklace and another ring for her left hand. This was all exchanged at the altar.

I wasn't able to stay for the whole thing, but they did proceed with Mass and it was nice. Just ALL in Arabic...so it was tough to even follow.

OH -- and the picture taking at church - at ALL the masses I"ve been is insane and in my opinion, VERY disrespectful. These people hop WHEREVER they want, WHENEVER they want up and around the altar and through the crowd. The icing on the cake was last night when the guy came right up in my face and snapped a picture. I was LAUGHING.....thinking -- WTH?!

By the time I left there were maybe 100 people in there, but I think they were coming for the next Asian mass....who knows!!

Like I said ... Church in Libya - you just never know what you're gonna get! :)

Enjoy the attached: (of course i forget that if I turn my camera up and down, the video stays the same! argh!)

Libya Trip #2

2009-10-08T05:15:00.004-05:00

Howdy ya'll. I'm ashamed to say it's been over a month I think since I posted anything! Yes, that is how crazy and silly my life has been.

.....which brings me today, as I sit in the Hess Libya office for the 2nd time in 2 months. I arrived in Tripoli on Sept 22nd and will be here till Oct 13th. After that I"ll head to London for two nights then back home on the 15th (yea! hoorah! yippee!).

AND then....an awesome trip begins for 2 weeks....but more on that another day.

so here's a few random photos from my trip this go-round. I've not done much at all really....due to working long long LONG hours every day. I've tried to get out in the evenings with friends here -- and God Bless them they've been great!!!!

Tripoli by night. That tall building is the Corinthia hotel. To the right further would be our office Tower. (can't see it on here)

What's that??? A curious black bag in my room???? Wonder what's inside....PIVO!!!! and it was quite tasty! The former King's Palace, which then became the Public Library and today, it's nothing. But still beautiful to look at. . .

Pampered Chef Wedding Shower

2009-08-28T14:43:00.004-05:00

What a great time! And everything was BEAUTIFUL!!!!

I cannot believe it's been a week, tomorrow, from the really awesome bridal shower hosted by Nikki Nerada & Glo Hagens for me (and Robert).

I tell you -- those two went WAY overboard. The shower was SO GREAT!! They asked me what type of shower I wanted several months back and I couldn't help but ask for a Pampered Chef one and they willingly complied!!! I love to cook and entertain ... so it was a perfect fit.

I've got pictures (courtesy of Jenny -- THANK YOU!!!) but I haven't been able to download them yet. They're on a disk that is from her fancy camera....so I'll work on that next week. Pictures coming soon.

I cannot thank Nik and Glo enough! Ya'll are so sweet and so special and so wonderful for hosting the shower! And what a success!! Thanks to everyone who came -- it was GREAT to catch up! And I (errr WE) made out like a bandit. I now have 10 items left on my Pampered Chef registry! HA HA I don't where I'll store all this stuff yet...but I'll figure it out!! So many goodies to come and so many fun things to use!

Again -- a big thank you from the bottom of my heart to the gracious hostesses, my family and all our friends that came! Love to you all....

Difficult Decisions = No Regrets. We have a new wedding date!

2009-08-26T17:32:00.000-05:00

Below is a letter that I have sent to my family & bridesmaids, and Robert's sent a similar one to his. The past several months we've had much heart-ache regarding our upcoming marriage and if we proceed without the annulment. After MANY efforts and even positive feedback from the church, we have elected to move the wedding date to April 17, 2010. It's a hugh relief off our shoulders and we will now not ever have any regrets for NOT waiting and NOT getting married in the Church. It's what we've both wanted. We've had much postitive feedback and expect the 1st letter regarding Robert's annulment in October and the final approval letter in December (but realistically January). Praise be to God when it comes through!!!!

Please read below if you like.

I know you all are aware that Robert and I have been waiting patiently to hear word of his annulment from the Catholic Church for a year and a half now. We took a chance and selected October 17th, 2009 as the day we wanted to get married knowing there was a potential the annulment wouldn’t come through in time. And it hasn’t!

We have consulted with Priests, Deacons, Moms and Dads, Grandparents and the like… even writing letters to the Tribunal (who oversees the annulment process) and the Cardinal himself here in Houston. The words of advice have been positive and we can’t thank everyone we consulted enough for those encouraging words and humbling advice.

As it was put to us by someone we consulted with, “the decisions you make today could have a lasting effect on your relationship as a married couple for a lifetime to come.” This is true, and because of this we understand that we love each other today, as we did 3 years ago, as we will 6 months from now, and as we want to 50 years from now. Knowing this, we've made our decision with thoroughness, thoughtfulness, and considerations, not just for today, but for what effects this could have on the rest of our lives.

We have finally come to the VERY difficult decision that, in order to keep our sanity, reduce the amount of impact to the least number of people, and more importantly to have the wedding we want as Catholics, we have decided to postpone the wedding until April 17th, 2010.

Robert and I have talked and weighed our options and even considered a wedding outside the Church, but our concerns were what regrets we'd have down the road. What example does this set for his sons? What would we tell our children some day? We love each other very much and our greatest desire is to be married, but my dream has always been to walk down the aisle of my church in Shiner. Would I regret not waiting for that? Would I regret it on my wedding day? 1 year from then? 5 years? 50 years? A 6-month delay is a drop in the bucket in the span of our lives together.

It's important to us because the Church and our faith is important to us.

The past several months have been very hard. Wedding planning had all the fun sucked out of it. We were on hold with so many things because we were living in the "what-if". I cannot even tell you how many tears were shed over this. My heart has never weighed so heavy. Monday, last night and even today, I can feel a weight lifted off my shoulders. Maybe this doesn't make sense but to those of you who have stood by me in all this and given your words of encouragement, you knew the stress and heart-wrenching times we'd gone through. All I can ask is for your understanding and your compassion now, in this decision.

As for the come and go shower this weekend, the bachelorette/bachelor and subsequent shower, they stay the same! The Bachelorette/Bachelor will remain in September and I have another shower shortly thereafter. By mid-October my wedding stuff will be done and I sit and wait for the big day! Thank goodness!!!! :)

You all are a big part of this day (YES!! YOU -- all of our guests - friends & family), so we pray for your continued love and support of our decision.

With Love,

Jamie (and of course, Robert too!)

My Bridal Portraits

2009-08-24T13:07:00.000-05:00

Are UP on Serendipity's website!!!!!

What a fun day that was. Hot as HELL, but still fun. Thanks to all my gals who were there to help! Love y'all.

Check 'em out (but don't show Robert!!!) at: www.serendipity-photography.com

xx
Jamie

Shiner Fun

2009-08-17T08:46:00.004-05:00

Two weekends ago we were back home for a fun one! Usual party at the pool house on Friday then a "back to school" party on Saturday. Good times!

Two worn out puppies from playing ALL DAY: Sophie & Ginger

Robert laughing at Jr.

Mr GQ himself.

Ted and Lecia listening in on some crazy story I'm sure!

Huntin' for armadillo's! Darn thing keeps getting into Mom's garden...

Jumpin on the trampoline....

I should post something new

2009-08-13T13:24:00.004-05:00

I've been slammed. Work is insane. It's overrated too! Life outside work has been fun and stressful. I'm already thinking of "when is all this insanity going to be over" but as soon as this chapter is over, another one begins, equally insane and with lots of fun inbetween. I really don't want to "wish" my life away on the "what's next".

blahty blah ...

FUN stuff...I took some pics of this past weekend at home -- SO MUCH FUN!!! so will try to remember to find my camera then post pics.

But here are some from our awesome Mr Fix It couple's shower in Sealy on the weekend I got home from Libya / London:

The engaged:

YUMMY cake -- oh so cute too! It says "Built to Love - Robert & Jamie" Robert's parents and us Me and my parents. Where's my fiance???

Oh look! There he is! Mr WASTE MGMT himself. (hee hee) Us gals! Angela, me and Karena

Interesting TidBit

2009-07-29T14:17:00.003-05:00

So I was at Bed Bath and Beyond the other day picking up a wedding present. Did you know that they will honor even the expired 20% off coupons? COOL! AND .. if you have to order something in the store that they don't have in stock that they will waive the shipping and handling fee? I thought that was super - cool!

And Dillard's is having a sale! Woo Hoo!!! Thanks for calling and letting me know, Mom. Now I HAVE to go shopping! :)

Leaving Libya

2009-07-23T10:24:00.003-05:00

I may have said it before....but it's all brown and sandy when you see it from above And dotted with olive trees everywhere!!!

But the coastline -- it's gorgeous! You can't see it well on here at all -- but beautiful beaches and water that is turquoise blue!

Bye Bye Libya -- thanks for the fun time!!!

Libya Part 8 - The MOST amazing pictures of all

2009-07-21T02:52:00.010-05:00

FINALLY!! We made it to Leptis Magna. It is a Roman city from the 100 AD timeframe. It is UNbelieveable!!! It is totally un-touched. We were able to climb and explore however we liked. I have utmost respect for these amazing exhibits, so was very cautious and careful. Enjoy the pictures. (they may be easier to see on Facebook as some of them just wouldn't upload correctly).
The Entrance to Leptis Magna Look at the size -- you see the guard at the bottom.

The details are slowly eroding, but even still -- simply beautiful! The Romans were an exquisiste people!The Bath Area -- they were hot, steam and cold bathing areas

Cool archway

Sitting on a column structure

Suspended archway -- so cool!

Look how TALL these are!!

Marble / Granite flower

The Italians came many years ago to start tagging each of the pieces, but were then pushed out Archway in the Forum

Two Angels :)

Pulpit in the Roman Catholic Church

We climbed all the way to the TOP of this picture. It is also taken in the church

Looking down into the church

3 Amigos (Me, Peter & Michael)

The Market area -- where good were traded and sold such as fish, spices, vegetables, fruits...

These "valleys" in the marble were worn by ropes that hung fish or other goods on there. Pretty neat!

Waiting for my fish to arrive! :)

The Theatre! Look at that VIEW!

Ancient paintings inside the beach bath house.

Mosaics inside the bathhouse

And another (these are on the floors!)

Lunch! Sweet rice (like Mamaw's! but with bits of liver -- i picked all those out - GROSS!), bordim chicken (cooked in a tin packet on buried coals, then covered), salad and lentil soup

AHHH! Off to the beach!!! This cove was lined with these huts. The water was gorgeous! And FREEZING. My ankles were frozen, but when we were floating -- it felt like the most wonderful place on earth. And it was so clear! After about 5 though the sea started churning and the seaweed was coming in as well as some of the trash. But it was still beautiful blue. What a PERFECT way to end the day -- 2.5 hrs of playing in the Med!

Floats! Floats and MORE FLOATS for sale along the beach!

Libya Part 7

2009-07-21T02:30:00.004-05:00

Pictures from Friday, July 17th -- 3 months till the wedding!!!! OMG
Upside down whiskey bottles, in a non-alcohol country, as one of the locals put it! The Corinthia Hotel -- very expensive and only VP's are able to stay there for Hess

Small fishing boat in the morning

Kids swimming. (in the nasty water on the shoreline. all the sewer drains from Tripoli drain into the water. GROSS! They were jumping off the outlets in some parts!!)

At the Pet Market -- Friday mornings just down the road from the office. There were ostriches, dogs, birds and even a cat or 2)

The baby ostrich that they took out of the back of the truck and into the front with this little kid. He didnt' seem to mind! There was also a rooster in the front seat as well.

Beautiful parrots at the pet market

Birds, birds and more birds...and some are quite expensive (150 Dinar for one canary)

German Sheperds are the favored dog no doubt

These are the means of local transportation (aside from taxis). These are the buses. Stay OUT of their way! They drive CRAZY!

Men at work! ha ha

The gang having a coffee at 10 pm! Peter, Me, Raphael & Shaban

Peter, Me, Aymen & Raphael

Libya Part 6

2009-07-20T09:59:00.004-05:00

More pictures of Libya .... Thursday evening July 16th
Me after dinner at the Arch ... by night. REALLY beautiful! Ok, so dinner was cooked INSIDE this clay pot, then they broke it open and we ate!! YUMMY!

Ayman and Michael helping me shop for souveniers!!! Talk about a bonus to have them both around! (Ayman works for us, by the way! He wasn't some Libyan guy I just randomly picked up, however easy that would have been -- crazy!!!) :)

The tower inside the Medina (not Merida like I was calling it before) I had to take a picture of it because the blue windows were awesome and ya'll know how much I love blue!!!

Turkish Lunch on Thursday - kebabs ... or kebaps, like the menu read

Turkish Lunch! (salad, bread, and more 'salads')

Libya Part 5 (I think)

2009-07-16T09:07:00.007-05:00

These are some of the best and craziest pictures I've taken so far!!! I went on an over night trip to Misurata, Libya to visit our shorebase. It was a GREAT trip!

Sand Storm near Tripoli

Beach in Tajoura, outside Tripoli

Camel going for a ride

2 more camels in the truck. Very common outside the city. Where are they going? to the meat market??

BBQ'd lamb

BBQ'd prawns & beef

CousCous

Libyan Salad

Libyan Soup

Drill Bits

At the shorebase warehouse look at the beautiful mediterranean water!!! I want to JUMP IN! (but we were in the harbor)

Misurata Guest House

Check out the FANCY bathroom accessories! Marble and Granite are here EVERYWHERE!

I HATED seeing this :( Poor horsie! He was moving from side to side so thankfully the driver slowed down to fix it. But STILL! :(

Cutting the Cake! It was the "official" grand opening of the Misurata Guest House

Egyptian van on the way back to Egypt. HILARIOUS!

TUNA pizza. Hey -- I gave it a whirl and never plan to again. It wasn't THAT bad .. but umm not my favorite!

Libya Part 4

2009-07-15T11:47:00.003-05:00

My most favorite picture of the day... arches through the Old Town
Top of Marcus Aurilieus Arch -- it's amazing!!! This arch has been around since the 230's AD. Yes -- 3 digits, not 4!

The Arch again. So beautiful!

Camel Nuts. Yes, they are eaten (NOT BY ME!!)

Camel Head (yes, they eat THIS too!)

Parking: anywhere, anytime, anyhow, no questions asked!

Libya Pictures Part 3

2009-07-15T10:51:00.003-05:00

Al Fatah Tower -- where Hess has our office (both in Tower 1 - on the left - and Tower 2 - on the right)
Coke -- it's know EVERYWHERE!

Few more Tripoli pics.....

2009-07-11T02:54:00.007-05:00

American ship mast....from the ship the pirates took down while we were giving supplies to Libya
Entry to where the horses were kept in the Old Town

Wall that surrounded the Old Town

Pretty archway in the Old Town

Summer Party area in Old Town, built and used by the Italians in their reign

Entry to Old Town

Entry to Merida (market) in the Old Town

Dome of the Mosque, which was built by the Italians and was a Catholic Church during the Italians reign in Libya.

The Mosque -- it's huge and BEAUTIFUL!

Dinner: eyes, teeth and all!

Storm Drain -- very effective!

Road block -- covering a DEEP manhole. Isn't that what all old copiers are used for???

Libya Part 1

2009-07-08T07:09:00.004-05:00

My first shots from Tripoli, Libya
Bags and bags of spices
and nuts and seasonings and grains and....

Sideways Meat Market

Making Almond Tea

Fish Market Man with a Shark

Few pics from London on July 5th

2009-07-08T07:02:00.003-05:00

Fountain at Trafalgar Square
Nelson Monument at Trafalgar Square

View of Big Ben, Parliament & Westminster Abbey from Trafalgar Square

View of London Eye from park just off Trafalgar Square

Park just off Trafalgar Square

More pictures coming in less than 2 weeks!!!!

Anxiously waiting.....

2009-06-29T10:50:00.002-05:00

for my bridal portraits to be posted!!!

It turned out to be a HOT day on Thursday -- shocker!!!! but we had a little shower and a little overcast, so that DEFINITELY helped!!!!

My bouquet was gorgeous! The dress was perfect. And I had the gals that mean the most to me there!

Serendipity was in for a real treat -- they got to snap pics with animals and cow poop and bugs and the HEAT and even heard some peacocks. Good stuff.

Robert and I also were at the Engaged Encounter this weekend. It was really great to be secluded from the world for a couple days. We rejuvenated our connection on the deeper level -- it was really nice. We had no "shockers" cause we talk so much about life today and tomorrow and down the road ... so that was good. But, not judging anyone, it was obvious that some of the couples, both younger than us AND older than us had more than a few surprises. Wow. How do you not know????

Either way -- Robert and I had a great weekend.....

Pictures

2009-06-24T13:19:00.003-05:00

I was going through pictures that were still on my camera. Wow! I have a lot to post about ... just no time. Here's a few things I've not posted about yet - Matt's Last Baseball Game and hope to get to the rest soon! (they lost, but had fun)

Happy Hump Day y'all!!!!

Matt goofing around, as usual, on 3rd base.

All smiles cause the thought he was the coolest cause he wanted the silly string all over him.

Happy Father's Day

2009-06-23T14:32:00.002-05:00

Yep ... It's now Tuesday ... but reading about everyone's Father's Day weekend really makes me want to share the one we had with Dad too!!! :)

Father's Day was pretty low-key for the most part ... but just being at home with the family makes it special. Ya'll all know how much I love being home, in Shiner, with my family ... so it comes as no surprise.

We enjoyed an amazing wedding shower (for us -- pics coming soon) on Saturday, so was able to spend it with the extended Chumchal and Migl families. What better way???? Sunday we all slept in then make chicken fried chicken breasts, fresh squash and fresh new potatoes for lunch. YUM!

I have amazing parents...as each of us do....so Thanks just doesn't seem to cover it ... but it's the best I've got for now! Happy Father's Day 2009 to all you guys out there. Including my amazing fiance, Robert -- who is an amazing father to two pretty cool boys.

Sweet Home Fireman's Fest -- Friday Night

2009-06-10T14:51:00.004-05:00

Some pics from the Friday night of the Sweet Home Fireman's Fest -- BBQ Cookoff. Always a good time the night before with lots of folks out and lots of booze going down!

Grumpy Jaace

Alyssa and some little girl relaxing...

Jamie getting my drink-on from my guitar cup! SWEET! Mine was clear and Dawn's chee-chee bird red! LOL

Me & Dawn -- aww
Aunt Carolyn hanging out

Scotty feeling just fine....

Welding

2009-06-08T13:18:00.003-05:00

So Robert (and Scotty) are working on a new BBQ Trailer for the 2 Farm Boys and a City Slicker cooking team. It's a work-in-progress. Here are some shots when the guys were up all night working on the smoke box and fire box. Cool pics. In the pics below are Ryan (Robert's good friend) and Jr and Robert taking the pics. I was in bed catching some zzzzzz's!

EKS

2009-06-08T13:15:00.001-05:00

This is dear Miss Emma Kate Strickland -- James & Angela's oldest.

We managed to work out our schedules and had them over for dinner on the Saturday before they left Katy for a bit. Miss Emma Kate was really taken by Matthew .... and Sophie's bed.

She LOVED it in here. But she's a smart girl -- Sophie's bed is super-soft and cuddly!!!! Fit for a Princess -- human or doggy! :)

Just a hello, I'm still alive

2009-06-04T14:06:00.003-05:00

I have been so bad over the past 6 months with keeping in touch with everybody, remembering birthday's, getting things in order, being on top of things. My blog has suffered too.

But ........ I'm still here. Work is crazy and I don't know when it will get better. Wedding plans are coming along really well. I can't wait for the bachelorette party and especially THE BIG DAY!!! I've really enjoyed being able to plan the whole thing with Robert and my Mom and Dad. My MOH's have been great with the bachelorette stuff. Jenny's really been on top of things. R & I have some hiccups yet, so keep all your fingers and toes crossed -- or whatever brings the most luck. Our honeymoon flights are booked now so we are SUPER excited!! Yay! Yay! Yay! And we got a HELL of a deal! I"m planning on taking 3 weeks off in October and right now -- it can't get here fast enough!!! I NEED A VACATION!!!!

Heading to Shiner this weekend - YAY! Have a few things to do but mainly get some R&R in as well as POOL TIME!

Have a great weekend everyone!

Jenny at 80

2009-05-27T09:57:00.004-05:00

Jenny -- you know I love you and I KNOW you'll get a GOOD laugh out of this.

This is a picture of you at 80. (if anyone who's been around Jenny when there's good music and plenty of drinks-a-flowin' .... you've seen her do her split .... for entertainment! Good times!!)

Love ya!

Jamo

Jaace is a Freshman!

2009-05-19T13:29:00.004-05:00

Man -- that just doesn't even seem right to say that. I remember the day mom told us she was pregnant like it was yesterday -- and darn near to the day it was 14 years ago. She told us in May, right before my softball game in Shiner .... which I was late to, but eagerly spread the good news and EVERYONE was so excited (except our coach, Dobber - ya'll remember the guy from Coach???, who was a complete moron)! I was a Junior in high school. And now -- he's just a week or so away from completing Jr High and being a Freshman.

It weighs heavy on my heart cause I love him so much and he's growing up -- has grown up -- so fast! So many people were involved in his life from his youngest years -- so he's like a distant lil bro to so many. But I'm also excited for him, however selfish I feel, that he's got some of his MOST FUN and best years right in front of him.

So before the tears fall -- here's a few pics of him at his 8th grade party from May 9th, 2009.

Eventhough he did NOT want to take ANY pictures -- I got him to AND made him give a little shit-grin. Hee Hee

Jaace & the boy (who I forget his name, maybe it's Chase?), who is obviously the class clown

Brady, Jaace, Chase?, & Austin posing like the studs they wanna be

Prizes for the kids

Proud Momma's -- they are ALWAYS the loudest and rowdiest at the boys' games and events.

Mom, Renee & Gail

They will cry like babies when graduation comes -- we all will!

I love you Jaace! You'll always be my Jaacer-Raacer. My Mo More. ;-)

Heather & Casey's Wedding

2009-05-18T16:20:00.002-05:00

A few pics from the beautiful day -- May 2, 2009

Shoe Shopping

2009-05-11T16:11:00.002-05:00

Bizzzzzy Bees

2009-05-11T10:47:00.003-05:00

I guess that's no surprise to those who know me and Robert. It's ALWAYS something to do, somewhere to go, someone to visit -- all good things!

So this weekend was a really good one! Finally, a weekend where all us Chumchal gals and their guys made it home for a visit. Happy Mother's Day MOM!!!! We love you!!

Friday started with a nice surprise -- my WEDDING DRESS arrived!!! A month early -- how cool is that?! And how in the heck was i going to WAIT till THIS week to get it? Luckily my wonderful fiance came and picked me up from work and we went to Ventura's to pick up the very special package. (it was hidden from him -- he's not seeing even a thread of it for 5 more months!!!)

Of course I tried it on at Ventura's, - fit perfectly, then at home that night for Mom and on Saturday for Dad. Thumbs up all around!

Saturday was another busy one -- Meeting with Father Bob, antiquing in search of some special lights, lunch at Mi Casa in Yoakum, back home to work on a sign for the wedding (which we completed and looks freakin awesome!!!!), visit with everyone who was at the party at the house, then to a wedding for a couple hours, then back to mom and dad's to finish up the party! I haven't had that many laughs in quite awhile -- SUMMER!! FANCY!!! CHUCKIE!!! "I'll cut yer throat!" Good stuff. Not to mention Roberto was feeling quite good (4 or 5 mixed drinks later) and lovey when I got back from the wedding. As long as he meant all his professions of love -- I'm quite happy!!!! ha ha ha

Sunday was Mother's Day at Mamaw & Papa Chumchal's, then back to Houston to visit with Robert's mom then home for a quick workout and VACUUMING of the house. I couldn't take it any more. House looks great again! I also had to work on getting some pics ordered off of Kodak Gallery before they shut my 5.2 GB (?) of photos I have stored on there down. Thank goodness I had an order ready to go!

So here we are at Monday -- just working for the weekend! Everyone have a GREAT week!!

MORE engagement pics

2009-04-30T22:56:00.003-05:00

A few more of our awesome pics....for those who haven't seen them yet! Happy FRIDAY!

Engagement Pics

2009-04-28T17:02:00.003-05:00

Here's a sneak peek -- more on my facebook!!! :)

I love what Serendipity did with the color on this one! FANTABULOUS!!!! :-)

Extreme Flooding - Houston, Take 2

2009-04-28T15:13:00.003-05:00

Houston weather these days - crazy is an understatement. I snapped this pic at around noon today on my way into the office (FINALLY). I got to the busstop in Katy this morning around 8:15 just to be about #200 in line. Shortly after, someone got ahold of Metro and none of the Katy buses were coming because the drivers couldn't get to them and the buses couldn't leave the barn -- too much street flooding.

It's been crazy here! It took me an hour and half, but I finally made it. This is a quick shot of Buffalo Bayou in downtown. That's the Post Office in the background. The water is about 3 feet from the bridge.

Heather's Bachelorette Party

2009-04-27T14:22:00.003-05:00

I won't say too much about the bachelorette party weekend other than we had a GREAT time!

I've left the more-revealing pics for Kodak Gallery to handle! :)

Nothin like the beach and a cold Sangria The bachelorette on the beach

SHOT TIME! GIFT time....

Lots of laughs

Cousins

And of course -- GAMES!!

The penis princess

The gals at Sharkey's

It was a BUSY weekend!

2009-04-21T07:53:00.008-05:00

Talk about a busy weekend and a very WET one. Thank God for all the rain. I wish Shiner got what Houston got! We were out in it Satruday and I'd never seen rain like that. We couldn't even see the end of the hood of the truck! And when we made it to our street -- it was totally flooded!!!

Here is a picture of how our yard floods with just a drop of rain. Our backyard (reminder: it's a rent house!!!) is awful -- needs to be completely re-done! It's driving Robert crazy! :)

So after the rain held off for a minute, we headed over to Kristen & Michael's wedding. She looked beautiful! It was really nice and the skies cleared and it turned out to be a beautiful evening! (Thanks Ryan & Shannon for watching the boys! They had fun!)

Here's a pic of me and the bride -- I only put it on here to show how beautiful Kristen looked ... (me = ugh!) First dance....

Cutting cake...SPEECH!!! SPEECH! SPEECH! This was her maid of honor and she had a really good, really cute speech!

Saturday night I worked on our guest list....and it gave me a headache from looking at the screen that long! (about 4 hours) BUT .. I did get a lot accomplished!!

Sunday was another biggie....Sunday at 9:30 a.m. Mass Robert's candidate joined the Catholic Church. He had already been baptised, but got Confirmed and First Eucharist on Sunday. It is always SO TOUCHING to see this! CONGRATULATIONS Rob! He was one of 17 who started this journey in September. (there were another 10 or so that got Baptised, Confirmed and First Communion at Easter Vigil....also very moving)

Here's Rob waiting to get Confirmed with Robert behind him.

The Clarke Family - Rob, Sandra, Ashley & Ian

Rob & Robert after the ceremony

And then we headed over to Moravia for my 2nd cousin Joane's 40th birthday party! It was a GREAT day for a drive and for a party! My whole family was there so I was really happy to see everyone!

Joane LOVES Polka music. Here are her and Robert cuttin' a rug!

Joane then went and grabbed my dad for a spin on the dancefloor!

Aunt Delores even played the Accordian for us!

The Migl and Chumchal family took up an entire table! Good times...

Happy Easter

2009-04-13T12:44:00.003-05:00

Just where did the nice, extra-long Easter weekend go? It was BUSY for us.

I hope everyone had a great Easter weekend and reflected on the meaning behind this day and time of year. He is Risen!!! Thanks be to God!!!

I was really touched this year as Robert has been a sponsor to a guy (Rob) who is going through RCIA. He was baptized Baptist and this coming Sunday will be Confirmed and receive his first Holy Communion. So, Robert's been busy since September as a member of the RCIA team as well as a sponsor. We've become friends with Rob and Sandra and their children -- so another blessing! So Holy Week has been busy. Thursday we went to Holy Thursday mass. Saturday was Easter Vigil and a year (Easter to Easter, not date to date) that Robert's been a Catholic. Last year's Easter Vigil was incredibly moving for me watching him be Baptized, Confirmed and receive First Communion and this year's was just as moving!

It really made me reflect on my life and my commitment to God and the Church. I can do more. I can be better. So, that's my goal for this year. ... to be an even better Catholic.

Of course it was not all church-going this weekend. We did spend Friday evening for a bit with Jenny and Nick and our family. It was nice. and relaxing. Saturday was lots of running around for me while Robert was at church in the morning (he had to speak about his experience!!! he was there from 9 to 11:45!)

Sunday -- was FINALLY a day of rest, but only for 1/2 the day cause we took Engagement Pictures yesterday evening. I hope they turn out ok!!!! We were definitely blessed with a BEAUTIFUL day! (despite the morning rain). It actually was hot at 6:30 when we started the session. By the time we were done, 9 pm, I was worn out. My hair fell flat pretty quickly, so the "middle" pictures I'm sure I'm not going to like the way I look (hair-wise) but the ones from the beginning and the ones from the end (when I pulled some back) should be good. We took a sneak peek at a few and from the camera screen -- I think they will be good!!!! Alice and Eric are pros, so I know we're in very capable hands!!

Anyway ... it's back at work now, wishing I were home, wondering where the weekend went, and looking forward to the next day off!!!

Robert gave me a sweet Easter basket and we both talked about how next year -- we'll be husband and wife! How cool is that!!!

Happy Easter all and have a great week!!!

Happy Birthday Jenny Lynn!

2009-04-11T11:02:00.003-05:00

Today is my middle sister's birthday...shall I say her age? I'll give a hint, it has a 2 and a 7 in it!

Jen, I hope you have an awesome birthday. An awesome birthday for an awesome gal.

As an older sister, it's fun and trying at times to watch your younger siblings grow up. I can say that I am very proud to have watched and been with Jenny on her journey. She is beautiful both inside and out. Her personality is infectious and her laugh, contagious. Especially when she gets that good belly-laugh going. :)

Over the past few years she's really blossomed and it's humbling to know she's my sister. From college graduation, to new jobs, to new boyfriend, to new city, to marriage, to pregnancy and beyond -- she's grown by and excelled at all. I'm so happy for her! And Nick too! The love you have for each other is exactly what everyone should have in their life.

The good times we've had are countless and the good times in the future will be limitless. No doubt there have been bumps in the road, but that's what being sister's and being family is all about. We are so blessed!!!! Faith, family and love are all you need in the world!

Jen - thanks for all the memories. Thanks for having my back. Thanks for being the wonderful person and sister you are.

Not to mention - she is boobalicious! :) Love ya Jen! Happy Birthday!!!!!

Heather's Come & Go Shower

2009-04-02T15:19:00.003-05:00

This passed Sunday, March 29th my mom, sister and I threw Heather her first shower -- a Come & Go Shower in Shiner. There were 55 hostesses and about 40 guests. It turned out really nice and she got quite a lot of nice things!

Here is Heather and her future mother-in-law Janet, Heather, and her mom Carolyn:
Looking pretty -- and the food was YUM!!!! Registry Table:

Beautiful cake my mom and her friend Jeannie decorated:

Jillian, me, Heather and my mom Barbara

Won't be long now till WEDDING pictures are posted! Woo Hoo! 4 weeks from TODAY! You must be SO excited, Heather! We sure are!

Where the HAIL did that come from?

2009-03-31T10:06:00.002-05:00

These pics were taken around 9 a.m. this morning in Shiner.

Crazy Texas Weather at its best....

Hopefully Shiner got some much-needed rain! And when the hail melts, the flowers will bloom! :)

Begonias & more

2009-03-30T15:31:00.003-05:00

Since I had my camera with a little life left in it yesterday, I snapped a few signs of Spring: Bright view of the pretty flowers:

Alas -- my begonias!!! Which, might I add, have been flowering beautifully since January. I've managed to keep them alive since last Summer and they are going strong!! Low maintenance, folks!! Getcha some!

Rodeo Wrap-Up

2009-03-23T11:04:00.002-05:00

The 2009 Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo is now a thing of the past. These last 21 days have FLOWN by! It was fun as it always is, however it's always nice to see it go....just to get back to normal life, as scary as that may be.

But here's my take on the performances I saw... of which were the ones I was scheduled to work at. No playing at the Rodeo for me this year! Which was sad, actually. :(

March 3 - Rascal Flatts -- for the opening night of rodeo, this performance was terrible, at best. And I only saw maybe 1 song! Sad Sad Sad

March 4 - Alan Jackson - always a pleasure. He kept it short and sweet -- Thank you AJ!

March 7 - Trace Adkins - I don't remember 1 thing about his performance. Had a good time while I was there, but don't remember a thing. Hosted Jenny and Nick and their friends that night and -- GOOD TIMES! They never made it to the Hideout, and I was only there for 2 songs, so no biggie.

March 10 - Toby Keith - Good performance, as he always does. Crowd went wild of course.

March 13 - Clint Black - On my BIRTHDAY of all days! But he was surprisingly GREAT!!! Well, as great at CB gets. He looked so laid-back and relaxed, I was pleasantly surprised.

March 16 - Darius Rucker - Anyone who missed this missed THE BEST performer of the Rodeo and of anyone I've ever seen. He was SO EXCITED to be there and showed off his buckle proudly. His voice is AMAZING!! Ahhh....he was sooooooooooo good! I will soon be enrolling Robert in voice lessons to mimick Darius! :)

March 19 - Pat Green - Did a good job. Even brought his son up there at the very end. Cute! Way to go Pat. Haven't seen him play that good in years! Not to mention -- Robert and the boys were in the Grand Entry! Matt was CHEESING it up, as you can imagine and Jr and Robert were all smiles too. They were so cute on the big-screen!

March 22 - ZZ Top - Now this was a hoot! Not that anyone could understand what words they were saying or singing, it was fun. I found out they sing "Sharp Dressed Man" and "The Girls Got Legs...and she knows just how to use them". LOL They are icons in their own right and Houston boys on top! I found their furry guitars that they switched to a bit of a laugh. And the fact that they stayed in step with each other perfectly. I guess after singing together for 40 years, (started in 1969) you do get pretty good.

Would love to know your thoughts on any of these you may have attended.

The Irish Are Special to Me

2009-03-17T08:10:00.005-05:00

because I'm MARRYING one!!! Exciting! Happy St Patrick's Day everyone!!!

I"ll become a Corkren in 7 months from today!!! Wow! I better get on the stick! :)

It's my birthday

2009-03-13T11:10:00.004-05:00

Yep .. today is my 32nd birthday. I'm ok with saying it. I don't feel like I'm getting closer to 40...I'm young at heart. That counts, right?

It's been a whirlwind of a day so far. I'm at work, and the piles and overwhelmingness of a new role is getting to me. I have to work at the Rodeo tonight, but luckily Robert switched his shift so will be there too. Tomorrow I have a 7 a.m. gym appointment, then we'll head to Wimberley, possibly via Shiner, for my dear friend Stephanie's wedding. We have a hotel for the night, then it'll be up EARLY to be back in Katy before 9:30 church. So...not much of a relaxing birthday weekend....but all good stuff to come.

Robert had probably 3 dozen roses for me this morning at the house. It was nice to wake up to!

Not sure what else the day holds, but we'll see!

Happy Friday the 13th!

We are NOT a lost generation ........ yet

2009-03-09T16:23:00.001-05:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=42E2fAWM6rA

Check this link out....really very good.

Rodeo Houston!

2009-03-09T10:58:00.004-05:00

Well, Rodeo is in full-swing. Again. It comes so fast and goes even faster!

I'm still on Suites West, as a Captain this year for Team A. Robert is on Team B, so he works the days after I do. We've not seen too much of each other lately due to conflicting schedules, Rodeo, and he's been away. 2 more weeks and Rodeo 2009 will be a thing of the past.

Had a good time on Saturday out at the Rodeo. Jenny and Nick with their friends Garrett and Stephanie came up to my Storeroom for some drinks (and shots!). I then met up with them after I was off. Were supposed to head to the Hideout for a few more drinks, but Jenny and Garrett decided to ride the SPEED ride at the carnival. Good stuff! I got there just in time to watch them twisting and turning several stories above. Jen said it's a "must-ride"! So I'll have to get on there at some point.

It was great to hang out for a bit and see some of the fam! I haven't been to Shiner in over a month and am not sure when I'll be back....I hate being away for that long. :( We may make a run-through on Saturday or Sunday as we head to a wedding in Wimberly...but I'm not sure yet. Just depends. If not, I'll be back for the weekend of March 27th -- for the ENTIRE weekend - Thursday through Sunday! YAY!!!!! Looking forward to that!

Have a great Monday, ya'll!

Schwan's Man

2009-02-27T08:13:00.003-06:00

Do ya'll remember the Schwan's man? I DO!!! They had the BEST chicken nuggets and the BEST ice cream. It was always a treat when they came to Shiner. Then they just kinda disappeared.

Well -- I was on a walk Wednesday evening and at the school I walk around there were signs of a "Schwan's Fundraiser Truckload Sale TODAY". I thought I was seeing things. Well, not really because I did see the Schwan's truck in the neighborhood about a week ago.

By the time I got home it was a couple minutes to 6 so didn't think I'd be able to make it to them, but I did and I got some chicken nuggets, marinated salmon and strawberry explosion yogurt. They have a whole freaking catalog now!!!!! My how times have changed! The nuggets are still yummy, but you have 3 to choose from, and fortunately after some talking I think I got the right ones.

Our Engagement Party

2009-02-24T21:38:00.004-06:00

Karena and Drew, Angela and James hosted an Engagement Party for us and the wedding party on Saturday, February 21, 2009. We had a great time and everything was PERFECT! I cannot thank everyone enough -- for having gone to so much trouble, coming to celebrate with us, and to being in our wedding!!

Special thanks to Jennifer and Zack who brought an amazing Italian Cream Cake & Oatmeal Cookies (My Faves!) and for Jenna and Chad on helping out!

Here's a few pics from the party:
The Groomsmen:
Robert, Nick, Mike, Taylor, Blain, Nick, my dad Ronnie, Matt, Jr & Jaace

The Bridesmaids:

Karena, Jennifer, Wendy, Shawna, ME, Meagan, my mom Barbara, Jenny & Hana

Opening gifts (this was about the only pic that turned out!!)

Our Toasting Flutes which are so beautiful!!! from my parents, Jenny & Nick, Jillian & Thomas, and Jaace

Me and Meagan, one of my Jr Bridesmaids! She's so pretty! And tall too!
The engaged ones! :)
Smooches ... to end the night!
Thank you ALL again - from the bottom of our hearts!

2nd Monday of the Week

2009-02-24T08:02:00.002-06:00

Hey everyone! I hope all is well. I'll be posting pics from this weekend's festivities tonight!

Send a good luck wish to Robert Jr as he will be showing his pig, The Beast, on Thursday morning at the Katy ISD FFA Show. The hog is looking good, so hopefully he'll place high and will be able to make the sale on Saturday!

Yesterday was a blur, however some good news at work. Very likely to be switching groups and roles here at Hess -- which is really cool! Travel involved and lots of responsibility. Can't wait!

Thursday is also BBQ Cook-off day! YAHOO! It's the best part of Rodeo, no doubt about it! We've got tickets for a couple booths and can't wait to go. However that means Rodeo is starting and it'll be 3 weeks of no sleep and busy-ness.

Robert is really liking his new job, which we are so blessed to have! Next week he's heading to San Antonio for the Subsea Tieback Conference, so I'll be handling the boys and keeping things calm at the fort! Not to mention -- RODEO begins. This week and next are going to be BUSY!

Anyway. What's new with everyone? Drop me a line soon!!!

8 months and I'll be on my HONEYMOON!

2009-02-18T15:24:00.003-06:00

Yay -- how cool is that!? Yep -- 8 months from yesterday I'll be walking down the aisle. 8 months from today and I'll be heading for my HONEYMOON as a Mrs and not a Miss!!! SO EXCITING! Robert and I worked on the honeymoon this past weekend a bit. FUN!!! It's starting to come together .....

I also went shopping on Monday (Dillard's of course -- 70% off sale!!!) and did some serious damage. And just by chance I bought 2 really cool tops for the honeymoon (not to mention some really cool shoes -- not for the honeymoon, but just for fun!)! Yippee!!!!

Hope everyone's having a good day!

Valentine's Weekend

2009-02-17T08:27:00.004-06:00

It was SUCH a great weekend! Robert and I really needed one of these just to rejuvenate! And we did.

Saturday we ran a few errands in the morning together to get prepared for the day. He was in charge of grilling and I was in charge of the others. We worked on our wedding guestbook and before we knew it it was time to start dinner.

Appetizers: Stuffed jalepenos

Salad: Robert had Serrano Ranch & I had Olive Oil

Main Course: Grilled Tiger Shrimp & Ribeyes

Side: Baked Potato

Dessert: Chocolate Fondue

I have to say though that dessert was postponed till Sunday morning after church cause we were just stuffed on Saturday. But hey -- it was a great treat after church. Sunday was a bit more of this and that and yesterday we both had off, so more little errands and just hanging out. I couldn't have asked for a better Valentine's weekend! And the food -- superb!

Thanks babe for braving the elements and for the gorgeous flowers -- You know just what I like!

Friday the 13th

2009-02-13T12:01:00.005-06:00

Happy Friday the 13th everyone! Ah -- it's just another day, so enjoy it!

I snapped this picture yesterday morning. It's my office desk. Pathetic. Anyone who knows me well enough knows that I hate mess. Clutter - yuck! Organization - yes! Nice neat piles -- for sure! So -- this is uncharacteristic of me yes, however it's the best way for me, at the moment, to keep straight at work. Too much to do -- to little time.

I did manage to straighten it up yesterday before I left ... so it does look slightly better... :)

Happy Friday ya'll!

Look what I did last night

2009-02-12T08:20:00.004-06:00

I got to play "mom!"

So today at Matthew's school they are having a Valentine's Day party -- you all remember those fun times at school. Coming home with a bag full of cards and candy! Good times.

Well, he was "unable" to get help from someone ELSE on this, so when he got to our house last night -- we got the task done. We ran up to CVS and got him some cool "Nerd Valentines" with little boxes of Nerds attached. He filled out the From line and I did the To line. Got that all done then it was "ugh oh we need a box". So we went through the scrapbook box and he saw some cammo paper that he liked, of course I only had 1 sheet -- so Robert helped us out and we used some old cammo jeans and look at our finished product!!!! Matt drew a heart on red paper, we used my star punch to get the stars in the different colors and he wrote his name out using the stars. For an improvised job -- I think it turned out cute! Even has a "secret pocket" on the bottom! He kept saying "this is awesome!" So my heart was full.

And as he was going to bed that night I told him I loved him and he said it back! awww

Sad to say though -- I'm sure when he gets to his house this afternoon it'll probably hit the trash, but not by his choice. I truly hope that's not the case!

One Week Ago

2009-02-12T07:52:00.004-06:00

Last Thursday as I was walking downstairs to get a cup of coffee (iced coffee at about 2 pm) I noticed in our lobby this pretty bouquet of flowers and told the friend I was with "aww those are pretty!". Mel, our security gal said "jamie, didn't you get my message -- those are for you!?!"

Awww -- my sweetheart got me -- AGAIN!!!! 2nd time this exact instance has happened at the office! He's so great!

But look closely at the picture above. Do you see something else teeny-tiny at the bottom????!!!!
At Bunco that same night I got the baby out of the King Cake!!! So, as the tradition here states:

the tradition of choosing the Queen of Mardi Gras was determined by who drew the prize within The cake. Today, such a find is still deemed to be a sign of good luck and it customary for the person who discovers the hidden plastic baby to host the next King Cake Party!!

WOO HOO!! What a great year to be blessed with even more good luck for this year!!!! I'm ready for the luck to start rolling in! :)

A Sad Day in Shiner

2009-02-10T11:25:00.002-06:00

Wow. These pictures brought a tear to my eye! Shiner High School, High School building is no more. The K-3 wing and cafeteria are already gone ... and here's saying goodbye to a building that is laden with history. (taken this morning) Our parents, friends, family and so many others had strolled the halls once upon a time. The new school is great -- but this demolotion tugs at the heartstrings. Good bye SHS! And definitely -- THANKS FOR THE MEMORIES!!!!!

Wreaking havoc on Mrs Sestak's math room ... calculus oh boy!

Saying goodbye to Mrs Jaehne's blue walls. Once was Mrs. Stluka's room too. I sang "I hate Housework" to the tune of "Can't touch this" there in Jr High and spoke all sorts of Spanish as Estella in high school.

Hello bloggers!

2009-02-03T14:39:00.003-06:00

Today is my mom's birthday, which means in just over a month I'll be 32. Old like my friend Karena! (I know she never reads this, but even if she did she'd get a good laugh! She's 3 months older than I am! ha!) My mom is such an amazing woman. Never once has she let me down! She truly is my VERY BEST friend in the entire world. There is nothing I could do without her, there is nothing I can't tell her and I'm sure there's things she doesn't want me to tell her! ha ha So have an AWESOME birthday Mom!!!

Today Robert accepted a new job! Way to go babe! I'm so proud of him! He's been wanting a new one for a long while, however the economy pushed him into ramping up his search a little over a week ago. And in a week he's found a new job that he's totally excited about and he is going to be so great at!!! I wish he'd give more credit to himself than he does!

In exactly 8 months and 2 weeks from today Robert and I are walking down the aisle! Kuh-RAY-Z! So exciting, but so much left to do! After March is over, I should have more time to focus on our wedding and really get some things knocked out!

I thought of something really profound this morning, was going to use it as my Facebook note, but heck if I can remember it! HA HA HA Is this a sign of getting old? I hope not!

Also -- if anyone reading this can and does give blood, Nick's Uncle Louis Buzek needs it! He was in a hunting accident last week, which he was very critically wounded. He is still in very unstable conditions. Prayers are needed! Dr Red Duke is his surgeon, so he is in some of the best medical hands in Houston.

Finally -- Robert and I have been living together for about 2 weeks now -- actually, 2 weeks today! That's good stuff! We really are enjoying it. It's been so natural too. I truly am marrying someone that compliments me in so many ways, and I know he feels the same way! I"m assuming all you married friends out there know exactly what I'm talking about!!

Here's to hoping everyone has a wonderfully blessed week and weekend!

Company Appreciation Party

2009-02-02T12:43:00.003-06:00

Hey all -- I know I know ... it's been awhile. I've just not been camera-happy, finger-snappy lately, so haven't posted much. As you can see on the previous two blogs -- I have been scouring for pics! Should have some from this coming weekend for ya' next week.

As for this post -- we had the Hess Corporation Employee Appreciation Party at the Hilton Americas on Saturday night. We all had a good time -- I think 1,300 people RSVP'd for it.

Here's a few pics from the evening. Robert and I stayed the night at the hotel and it was like a mini-vacation. We plan to do more of those cause it just worked out TOO WELL! And Miss Sophie was an ANGEL. She stayed at home while we were away and oh she was such a sweetie! Behaved even better than expected! Now -- I'm sure if we do this again soon, she may show us who's boss!

R & J

Andy & Beth

Me & Rob -- although I'm not sure who he's checking out!!!

My how time flies

2009-01-28T20:32:00.002-06:00

So this picture is of me almost a year ago. I had just started at Hess and they wanted a picture for our newsletter. These were the glory days. When I had my own office. When I wasn't working on contracts for 6 to 8 different countries, all of which were different. When I didn't have quite so many stacks of files on my desk that I was literally buried! These days at work I share an office. They made this one a shared office, then moved us into a new shared office. I do the work of at least 2 persons. People know I'm swamped because I rarely, and I mean rarely have time to visit or socialize with anyone. It's quite frustrating. I'm thankful to have a job and even more at an oil company ... however ... there are days when I just want to say 'thanks, but no thanks'. However, I perservere. AND .. in 2011 we're moving into Hess Tower into downtown and 'should' have my own office again. HA HA HA 2011. Really.

Christmas is over and so is January, practically

2009-01-22T08:39:00.003-06:00

I hated taking down the Christmas decorations. Not only because it's a chore, but I just love the season. So here is one last pic (actually the ONLY pic) of our Christmas tree and beautiful nativity set before it went back into boxes and stored away.

And now JANUARY is almost over? That's craziness!!! Lot's has gone on this year so far, some good, some bad, . . . but we'll perservere and face the challenges head-on and the fun times with gladness.

Hope you all have a great weekend. I'm READY for it. Heading to Shiner for some R&R with the family. Yahoo!

Frustrations!

2009-01-20T11:06:00.004-06:00

I have thoroughly enjoyed wedding planning so far! I wish I could take a month off to get things done, but unfortunately that's not feasible. So it's trying to get things done during work breaks and weekends. Luckily I have every other Friday off, so that helps. I can say it feels very surreal right now. Like I'm doing all this planning for someone else. Like I'm not really the BRIDE! Does it ever sink in???

And when you're planning do you continually second guess yourself?? Geez! I could kick my own butt sometimes!

However -- I am having a DOOZIE of a time with bridesmaid dresses. The color I want is only available in the priciest of dresses, which is NOT HAPPENING! I made a mad dash to Ventura's on Saturday with a limited amount of time only to find out I needed a LOT more time there. I've done numerous online searches, but you cannot compare a color online to one in real-life. Oye!

I know it'll all work itself out, however it's driving me crazy in the meantime. Quite a lot hinges on the color of the gals dresses, like the guys tuxes. Robert tried some on last night (and oh my gosh he was SOOOOOOOOOOOO handsome), and there were a couple colors we liked, however I can't give the go ahead until I have the girls dresses figured out. (naturally us ladies are MOST important!) Hee Hee

Anyway -- just writing and venting here ...

On another note, cause I don't like posting without a picture -- here are some fun ones. Enjoy!

Frio Breakfast Stop. Look at all these folks! And still more on the way!

Dogs always make me happy. They are so fun! Always happy.

Miss Sophie -- one FINALLY where she's looking at the camera.

Sophie on Robert's lap as we're cruising down the highway, probably back to Katy from Shiner!

Bella Rose as a puppy. Too cute! Bella as an adult. She's still just as sweet and cute!

Gotta Love the Weekend!

2009-01-16T11:31:00.003-06:00

Especially those that are FREE! Robert and I have no real "set in stone" plans this weekend. No doubt we'll still be busier than ever, but nothing that we just HAVE to do.

I still have the Christmas tree up. We took down all the outside decorations last weekend, so it's time for us to hit up the inside. I'm sad to take it down because the Season just came and went so fast! But I need to get off my rear and get it done! ha ha

We do have some errands to run tonight and are likely meeting up with his friends Brian and Kim for dinner in Columbus.

Saturday will be de-decorating day! Saturday afternoon I'm going to Steph's wedding shower which will be good fun! I've got a trip planned to Ventura's before to look at bridesmaid dresses, but mainly color swatches! And hopefully in the evening Robert and I can look into our Honeymoon a bit!

Sunday will be church and undoubtedly more wedding stuff. Like the GUEST list. Wow! That is craziness. But EXCITING!!!!!

We had our first Rodeo meeting last night which was good. Always nice to see so many sweet familiar faces. We went to Watson's after for a couple drinks with the Subsea7 clan then up to Stephanie's to get Sophie and a few things. This morning he mentioned something about "your husband" and it was SO COOL to know that in such LITTLE TIME we'll be a Wife and a Husband. Awesome!

I hope you all have a great weekend, whomever reads this. Know I'm thinking about ya -- cause I'm always thinking about ALL those I love and have cherished friendships with!

Shiner girls representin'!!!!

2009-01-12T13:28:00.003-06:00

We hit the Bridal Extravaganza on Sunday and had a great time! I got loads of ideas and even got to see 'my' dress on the runway!!! Yep -- it made the show. It looked sooooo preeeeeeeetyyy!

It was the first time for Jenny, Jillian and Dawn to see it, and was glad to hear they thought it was nice.

Do these shirts look familiar? They are the ones I got all the gals when I asked them to be in the wedding! Mom and I got one too so I thought it would be really cool to wear them to the Extravaganza ... and they were a hit! How many times did we hear "got any beer?" "where did you get those?" "are ya'll from Shiner?" It was pretty cool!

New Year's Eve 2008

2009-01-07T09:03:00.005-06:00

So Robert and I had a great low-key New Year's this year!!! We spent it over at Ryan & Shannon's house with them and Danny. We had THE LOUDEST fireworks in the area. By far.

Good times! Happy New Year everyone!!!

Here are Robert and Ryan chopping wood for the fire (so safe after a few drinks!) with this mallet Ryan whittled.
Here is the gang chillin out (literally) before the countdown.

The Loot . . . and only a SMALL portion of it!

Prettiness

Our 3rd New Year's together! A great start to an amazing year!!!!

AFTERMATH

Oh now let's see. How to explain this one? That is me enjoying the last drops of my bottle of red wine. Apparently, as Danny suggested, I'm doing a Soprano's impersonation. Hmm. Could be.

Happy Times

2009-01-06T15:07:00.003-06:00

We had an impromtu party at Robert's house this past weekend! Talk about a good time! Thank you to EVERYONE who came over for it!!! Let's do it again soon!

The host & hostess and of course Sophie!

Michelle posing for the camera. Hot momma!!

Jamie & Karena lookin smokin' hot, of course! :)

Hangin out: Nick (so sweet and so single!), Patsy & Taylor (also sweet and also single!)

Robert and 3 of his groomsmen: Mike, Ryan & Danny

Snack time!

Francina & Greg hanging out watching the football game

2009 - Back at Work already!

2009-01-05T14:35:00.004-06:00

Man -- I don't know how many of ya'll are suffering today like I am. It is all I can do to get some good work done today. I've been muddling through but the motivation is JUST NOT THERE YET!!!!

2009 is going to be a busy year. Most importantly with our wedding! It's so exciting! And we go so much done over the holiday's. Of course ya'll know me I want it ALL done like yesterday, but I'm managing to not get too overly excited or stressed. I am just so happy about the leaps and bounds we've made so far! Yahoo! More details of that to come.

I wanted to share a picture of our His and Hers Washer and Dryer! HA HA HA This is Robert and my FIRST purchase together. They are AWESOME too!!! I'm not sure if the washer is HIS and the dryer is HERS, but I like to think the Washer is mine and the Dryer is his. (then HE gets to take the clothes out and fold them, not me!) Right? Right! ha ha

Last night was Robert and my first night apart in over 2 weeks and it was so hard to leave. But I needed to get back to Steph's and missed visiting with her over the past weeks. I slept good but was just lonely. He didn't get to bed till after midnight, said he just couldn't sleep. That's a cool feeling. (not that he couldn't sleep, but the feeling of oneness when we are together).

Yesterday I went up to the barn with him so he could attach a bracket to Jr's pigs water spiggot and I was watching him work and tears welled up in my eyes because I just love this man so much. I never knew I could love someone like this. I love my Mom and Dad, sisters and brother, grandparents and family so much -- but the love I have for Robert is different. He truly does complete me.

Thoughts and "lasts"

2008-12-19T11:44:00.000-06:00

Hello everyone -- HAPPY FRIDAY!!! Can you tell I'm excited? I'm really hoping to get all my work stuff done so I can enjoy the time I should be having off. I really really don't want to "work from home" but inevitably will and I really don't want to "come in on Monday" but still may. Oye.

So I just reminded myself of something as I was responding to my good friend Stephanie's recent blog -- I've had some of my first last's recently!!!! What do I mean?

Now that I'm ENGAGED! (yah! Yahoo! YIPPEE!) I've experienced some "last's" and there's NO TURNING BACK FOR ME, no siree bob!

I've had my last Halloween as a single lady. (we got engaged the friday before)
Robert's had his last Birthday as a single man!
We've both had our last Thanksgiving as Mr Corkren and Miss Chumchal. Next year will be Mr & Mrs Corkren. (cool!)

And I'm about to celebrate my last Christmas as a Chumchal. Well, ya'll know what I mean. :)

Some really cool "lasts". 10 months and it's all going forward from there!

MERRY CHRISTMAS with lots of love from Jamie CHUMCHAL! hee hee

Santa's Gmail

2008-12-16T09:53:00.002-06:00

Hopefully you can read this -- if not, let me know, I'll email it to you!

Sophie

2008-12-16T09:49:00.004-06:00

Hangin out at the house with her most favorite toy EVER - thanks to Granny -- her hot dog. She goes crazy over that thing!

Really -- how cute is she?? :-)

Lights in de Heights 2008

2008-12-16T09:05:00.005-06:00

What another great party at Renee's! Everyone was in good form and had a great time!

Many thanks to Mom & Dad and Jenny & Nick for keeping an eye on the boys that night! No way would Robert and I have stayed out till 4 a.m. if they were at home on their own! Hee hee

Look at those HOTTIES! (darn pic won't turn the right way for me on here!)

Robert & Taylor (Rob asked Taylor to be a groomsman that night! Yay!)

Jamie & Robert (not too far into the drunkeness)

Me & the guys (Brad & Taylor)

Whoa!!! That shot must have been the one that did me in! 3 and it was ALL OVER!!
Apparently (according to Robert) we were telling jokes and having a good laugh! Good times gals!
Acting silly
Smooches!!!!

Texans Game

2008-12-16T08:58:00.003-06:00

The boys, Robert and I headed over to watch the Texans WIN against the Tennessee Titans. Go Texans!

The boys after the game ... they had fun! It was their first Professional Football Game.

Here is proof that I made it to the game. Hungover and all ... I was there!
Stinkin' Espresso Vodka shots! :)

$1.39 & 9/10 per gallon

2008-12-10T14:22:00.002-06:00

Yes, this is how much I paid for gas to fill up my Tahoe the other day. And it was at a Chevron.

I needed about 1/2 a tank, so 12.65 gallons and $18 dollar -- I was on my way.

Seriously -- $1.39!

AND -- YAY for Thursday being here!!! I have been looking forward to it since Sunday. My work week is over. Only 5 more days to go next week AND tonight is a girls night out at the Alley Theatre. We're doing an ornament exchange and have dinner at Birraporetti's. We're going to see the Santaland Diaries, which from the reviews is supposed to be a funny adult comedy! I can't wait! ... I hope everyone else is looking forward to it like I am!

Road Warrior

2008-12-08T08:44:00.004-06:00

Well I finally racked up some miles on the car-o this weekend. :) (that one's for you KDK!)

Friday night Robert and I ventured over to Watson's to meet our friend Bryan for a few drinks. It was good fun and we had some good laughs. They especially liked posing for the Miller Lite girls. Of which the big picture magnet is hanging on our fridge!

Saturday morning I woke up early to hit the dusty trail back to Shiner. Picked up mom, met up with Dawn and Jenna and headed to K&K. We spent about 2 hours trying on dresses and even got Jenna in one. I can't wait to take Hana and Jenna out flowergirl dress shopping!!!!

Here's a few we found that were SOOO CUTE! this one was our favorite, I think!

This one was so precious -- it was cute in the front and had a little train in the back! aww.

So after shopping at K&K, Dawn and Jenna headed for San Marcos and Mom and I started our running around. We went and visited with the cake lady, then the wedding decorations lady, then -- yes -- we drove to Austin to try on the dress that is still the lead contender, just another time. It's still the most flattering!

After that mom and I went to Baby A's for dinner, since neither one of us had one single thing to eat ALL day. It was yummy. Then it was back to Shiner we went. We did stop off in Lockhart for a break at Wal-Mart then again in Gonzales to see what their material departments had. As we were walking out -- between the jewelry section and the electronics my heel slipped and down I went -- oh so graciously though. It was HILARIOUS!!! Mom turned around when one of the workers said "OH MY!!!". I bumped a stand and mom just cracked up. Seriuosly -- slooooow motion. We were laughing for a good 10 minutes!

We finally made it back to Shiner and although I had intended to go back to Katy that night, it was after 9p so I hung out with Mom and we did more wedding stuff on the computer. It was fun. I was sad my sisters weren't there with me, but hey -- we're all busy, especially THIS time of year!

Robert and I finished decorating the house for Christmas last night -- it looks good. We hung lights outside and are going to let the boys hang ornaments on the tree on Wednesday. This Christmas has completely snuck up on me!!!

AND ... might I add -- on the way to Austin on Hwy 71 I got a warning for having no front license plate on my car. Hello! That takes it down a notch! ha ha It was by a state trooper just barely outside Bastrop. He was in the turn land headed South on 71 while I was 2 or 3 cars deep headed North -- all stopped at a traffic light. What a booger. This is the 2nd warning I've gotten in my BMW in about 6 weeks -- for the same darn reason. It's a silly law if you ask me :)

Jaace is 14!!!!

2008-12-05T07:44:00.003-06:00

I don't know if ya'll can believe it, I surely can't -- but on Wednesday Jaace turned 14! That is just complete craziness! He's 1/2 way done with 8th grade and will be driving soon.

Happy Birthday Jaacer Raacer!!!!

(here's one of him being silly)

We all met up in Wharton for a nice seafood dinner. Look how big our family's grown!

Wedding Dress, Wedding Decor

2008-12-02T13:51:00.004-06:00

I tell you what -- October 2009 is going to sneak up on me - I swear it! But we're getting things going and hopefully we'll be ahead of the game.

Last week Robert and his good friend (and groomsman) Ryan worked on one of our table decorations. Here they are hard at work:

Here is the 90% finished product. Robert stained it while I was out Black Friday shopping with the gals. We have clear votive holders to go in it and it looks really good! Way to go babe!

So while we were out on Black Friday, Mom had a wild hair up her purdel and wanted to go look at wedding dresses. And we did find one that is really flattering and very pretty!! Yes, I'm still "looking" but it always goes back to that one, which I believe was the 2nd one I tried on. Jenny and Jill loved it and Mom did too!! So we'll see. (big smile!) I don't know about for some of you other married women -- but it's all very SURREAL feeling right now. SO exciting and so just "wow"!

I went on Sunday to Ventura's here in Houston for a quick look at one particular dress. Although I liked these, the other one from Austin still "does it" for me -- so just a couple more shops then we'll be ORDERING! I'm hoping to have bridal portraits in April -- so need to get it ordered soon!

Here's a few I tried on at Venturas:

And today, with all good luck and the moon and stars and sun aligning, I'll be sending out the official "will you be my bridesmaid" packages. Hee Hee. Fun stuff!

GUMBO! Aaaahhh-yeeee

2008-12-01T13:01:00.004-06:00

Check out my man cookin me up some yummy gumbo. He put a twist on it with his duck and goose addition, which I steared clear of. It was so good! Thanks Babe.

Boy - he's trained right already!

Funniest Videos EVER!!

2008-11-25T12:18:00.006-06:00

Oh

MY

GOSH!

I was in TEARS laughing so hard at these.

Karaoke, lots of alcohol and the Chumchal crowd = one hilariously good time!

Just listen to the GIRLS encroaching on this one -- freakin hilarious!

LOL watch Nick on this one -- oh my gosh I'm in tears!! (As a Chumchal Tradition at Christmas all the new out-laws get to sing a Christmas Carole. This year we started early at Papa's birthday party. freakin hilarious)

And one final one featuring Uncle Greg. Who knew he was such a Luther Vandross? Watch Robert. I cracked up when he was hoopin and hollering and then nudged Jaace and Jaace was like "what the ??!" LOL Then watch Jill and Thomas "get a little lower now" then Jenny break out in a split! Shit it's funny!! Greg ends with a resounding "God Bless America!" - classic!

Chiropractor, Birthday, Wedding, Work and Life in General

2008-11-24T18:27:00.003-06:00

What CRAZY days the past few have been!

Last week at work was pure HELL. Work was insane and there were all sorts of things happening. I believe all the stress of that week and the week's before led up to a severe neck ache. So after 31 years I went to the chiropractor today. LOL He cracked the shit out of my neck at the end and I was in more pain than before. 4 advils later and an ice pack I was feeling a little better. I go back on Wednesday for more punishment.

We did celebrate KDK's 32nd birthday on Saturday evening at YiaYia Mary's! It was a good time and Karena looked FABULOUS! (I hope I look half as good as her when I get her age! ha ha - that's just an on-going joke we have. K's all of 4 months older than I am!)

Today is Robert's 36th birthday! He had the day off and has enjoyed it. He's over at his good friend Ryan's house doing wedding stuff (wood work and beer drinkin!). :) He's been so great with all the wedding planning!! We also found our centerpieces Sunday for some of the tables so that was cool!!! Now I just need to get a dress picked out so I can figure out what colors I'm going to use.

I had to laugh -- Robert THOUGHT he was snagging a younger woman -- but he's got one that's falling apart before HE is!

Today we also met with Alice and Eric our Serendipity Photographers!!! They are so awesome! Robert and I will be working on their contract this weekend.

I hope everyone has a great Thanksgiving!! I'm SO ready for the holiday's! ALL of them -- both Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's! Robert and I got the tree up but we still have a bit more to do, some other inside decorations and all the outside decorations. I just wasn't ready to take down the Fall/Thanksgiving stuff until at least Thanksgiving is passed.

Here's a few pics from the house.

Our dining table centerpiece.

The Stockings: Robert, Jamie, Jr, Matthew & Sophie's

Papa Ed's 85th Birthday Party

2008-11-20T08:33:00.004-06:00

Here's a few pictures from Papa Chumchal's 85th Birthday Party. It was SO MUCH FUN!!! I believe everyone was so relaxed, and the weather was good, and there was a great turnout, that the day was just perfect. And we partied and karaoked until the wee hours!

Dad (58) and Papa (85)

Yeehaw Cowgirls!!

Robert & Jamie

Jenny, Jillian & Me

Arizona

2008-11-18T15:43:00.003-06:00

So Robert and I were in Scottsdale, Arizona November 5 - 7. We had so much fun and it was SO PRETTY. The weather was perfect -- not too hot and cool in the evenings. He was there for a conference and I was there to do a lot of nothing -- which I succeeded in very well! We stayed at an awesome resort - The Phonecian - which was so nice! 8 pools! Awesome workout facility! Great golf course! Need I say more?

I was ready to get back to Texas though. As much as I loved the blue skies and all, I missed the humidity. Yes -- the humidity! Everything I touched I shocked myself with! My hair was staticky, my skin way dry, regardless of how much lotion I used and I'm still nursing dry lips.

I LOVE TEXAS (but like traveling to other places to learn these valuable lessons! ha ha)

Robert and I on our last day at the Phoenician
Cool pic on our evening trip to Sedona, Arizona.

We tried our HARDEST to make it to the Grand Canyon, got as far as Moose-Country, but sun was setting and we would have been there in the dark. So we detoured back through Sedona.

Cactus and Palm Trees. Who knew?

Red Rock Canyon in Sedona -- it was gorgeous there. We saw the sun set on the red rocks.

Quote of the day:

2008-11-11T17:30:00.000-06:00

Whatever you give a woman, she's going to multiply.

If you give her sperm, she'll give you a baby.

If you give her a house, she'll give you a home.

If you give her groceries, she'll give you a meal.

If you give her a smile, she'll give you her heart.

She multiplies and enlarges what is given to her.

So - if you give her crap,
you will receive more shit than any one human being can handle.

Our First Meeting with the Church

2008-11-10T14:26:00.004-06:00

Robert and I have had a busy week!!! We were in Scottsdale, AZ for a few days - him attending a conference and me just hanging out and thinking about wedding stuff. Got a few things done, which is great. We flew back on Friday night and drove to Shiner mid-morning Saturday for Papa Ed's 85th Birthday Party. We had FUN!!!!!! It was a great evening! I've got lots of pics to post!!!

Sunday was church, then Robert installed a ceiling fan for Mamo and then it was full-on wedding errands around town. A good 5-hours of stuff. We started at the Kasper B&B checking out rooms for our out-of-town guests. Got those all taken care of and then it was to the American Legion Hall for measurements, then to see Father Bob at the church to get that ball rolling, then back to the Hall for the final stuff, to my parents then back to Houston. We were exhausted!!! But I feel like things are getting accomplished.

Next big task for me -- officially asking my girls to stand in the wedding!!! Yay! I hope they say YES! :-)

Here is a picture of the Sts Cyril & Methodious Catholic Church in Shiner as we left Father Bob last night. It was such a pretty shot we couldn't pass up! A great way to end our day of wedding-planning!!!

Happy Halloween 2008!

2008-11-02T11:16:00.004-06:00

We went to a costume party thrown by my best friend Dawn, her husband and kin - Shirley & Pat. It was so much fun. Darn jello-shots threw me (and everyone) for a loop -- which was the intent, huh?!

Enjoy the pics:

the Sumo & the Geisha (aka the future Mr & Mrs Robert Corkren)
Dawn & Scotty - Devilish Vixens! Pops n Mo (aka My Mom and my Aunt Karen)
Preggo Nun & the Priest (Jenny & Nick)
Sarah Palin & John McCain campaigning (down and dirty! aka Jillian & Thomas)

Nothing EVER comes easy

2008-10-29T13:48:00.003-05:00

Well, some days that is my feeling.

So October 17, 2009 is the date Robert and I have picked to be married. WELL -- that day only has a 90% chance of going forward. In my gut, I feel like everything will be alright, but ....

The Shiner Brewery turns 100 next August. That is great. But there are ALL KINDS of rumors circulating. Will they have a celebration? Will it be in August? Will it be in Shiner? Will they bring back Bocktoberfest? Will it be on the 3rd weekend of October? Will it be the 2nd weekend? Will they have anything at all?

Of course the Gambrinas company is all HUSH HUSH about it which is SO frustrating!!! Good for them but it's KILLING ME!!!! The more I think about it the more upset I get.

My fear is people would come to the wedding for a little while, then go to the 'fest. I don't want that! I want people to stay and have a great time.

Am I thinking too much? Would people really do that? (yes, I believe so)

I dunno -- but this really sucks. There are 2 weekends in September that are possibilities -- I GUESS, but I REALLY want October 17.

:(

So see -- nothing ever comes easy.

Engagement Weekend - Talk about BUSY!

2008-10-26T16:59:00.003-05:00

So this weekend has simply flown by, simiply because it was jam-packed even BEFORE the engagement! Saturday morning Robert was up early to go help out at the West Memorial Elementary PTA Carnival. I slept in till around 8 a.m. Then the texts, phone calls and emails started (or continued!). It was GREAT!! I cannot thank you all enough for your comments and thanks and well-wishes and 'about time' 's! ha ha I hope to get to respond to you each soon!

Just be sure to MARK Oct 17, 2009 on your calendar -- it's going to be one heck of a party!!

So after the carnival Robert helped clean up while I went to meet Karena out for a quick bite and to show her the ring. We then headed to Wharton to surprise Jenny. (Nick and Robert and I had planned for a couple weeks to come up this weekend to visit and go to a play.) She initially thought we drove that way just to show her the ring. Hee Hee

We went to the play -- Of Mice and Men -- which was good, but the wine made me sleepy!

Sunday Mom, Dad, Jillian and Jaace came to Wharton for lunch to Congratulate us! It was great! We headed back to Katy early, went look at a house in Fulshear, back to Robert's, then more phone calls, emails and texts.

Everyone has been so supportive -- it's incredibly humbling. Robert and I are SO BLESSED!

Lots of love from the soon-to-be Corkren's!

Date's Set

2008-10-25T01:14:00.001-05:00

Also -- mark your calendar's for October 17, 2009.

Everything is booked and ready!!!!!!!!

Happy Happy Day -- We're ENGAGED!

2008-10-25T01:07:00.002-05:00

Yes!! It's finally happened and I said YES!!!!

Well, what I kept saying was "this isn't real, this isn't real" but I did slip a "YES!" in there too!
Tonight has been nothing but SURREAL.

He proposed around 8:30pm tonight and totally caught me off guard. We had plans to meet up with our friends Brad & Jenny so followed through with that at The Tilted Kilt. Have a look:

FLOWERS!!!

2008-10-16T07:35:00.003-05:00

Robert TOTALLY got me yesterday!!!! Aren't they gorgeous???

I even told the guy when he brought in this weird shaped box that he was in the wrong place. Are you sure it's for me? Who is it from? THE DEPT OF AGRICULTURE? What do they want? Are you SURE you're sure???

And as soon as I opened the box -- these are what I saw wrapped securely. They are so beautiful! I love you babe!!!!