5 years of bliss...

I have been married to my best friend and the best man I know for 5 years! I cannot believe it. I am honestly in awe of how much more I can love him each day. I guess my heart just keeps growing bigger because every day I don’t think there is a way I can love him more! :D I am so very blessed.


Sometimes I wonder how I got so lucky. I have a man who loves me dearly and would do anything for our little family. He works so hard and is still always so loving and caring. Best of all he has a great sense of humor that constantly keeps me laughing. I love how much fun we have together. I would do anything for him and I look forward to many, many more years of trying to show him how much he means to me:D

How can you not love that face...haha

The previous post was about our amazing outer banks trip! He took me there for our anniversary and we had the best time :D Truly needed and very much enjoyed :D Well my sneaky, sweet husband also surprised me on the day of our anniversary with MORE. He bought us Zac Brown Band tickets!!!!! They happened to be playing on our anniversary and have become one of our favorite bands. We had a blast. I sure do love him :D

 SUCH a good concert!! I still cannot believe he took me! :D

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY to the best person I know. I cannot wait to spend MANY more years with you :D

Anniversary Trip!

Our trip was FANTASTIC! We had such a good time. It’s hard to believe that we are already celebrating 5 years of marriage! Time feels like it has just flown by. I need it to slow down some. Like now. Haha. While on vacation John and I realized that this was the first trip that him and I have taken somewhere alone since our honeymoon! We have always taken a trip with friends or most of our vacation time in Miami went to friends coming to visit us, us going to see them, or mostly coming home for visits. SO it was MUCH needed. Especially since we have such different work hours normally, it was nice to spend a few days together. On top of that, we both went from our jobs in Miami straight into our jobs here without a break of any kind. So vacation was much overdue and I really couldn’t have asked for a better trip.

We decided Wednesday we would get up early, load up the car, and head on out. We drove to the outer banks and went straight to our first lighthouse of the trip. Eventually, we would like to go to them all so we started to check them off on this trip. Our first one was Currituck. Once we hit the outer banks, we put the top down (duh) and cruised on up to the lighthouse. It was HOT! But a beautiful ride. The lighthouse was gorgeous too. We climbed all the way to the top and took some pictures.

 Currituck! 

 BBQ Lunch :D It was delicous!

Our next stop was going to be a black bear exhibit thing, where we got to learn about them and then go looking for them in the wild! We grabbed some pulled pork on the way and made it just in time for the event. It was pretty neat. We didn’t realize it was going to be a driving tour-so that was a little disappointing, but we did see some black bears (in the distance). After the black bear exhibit we had plans to stay for a red wolf exhibit, which we were REALLY excited about out. We thought we were going to learn about them and then get to hear them howl- but of course the military base close by was doing drills with their airplanes and we couldn’t hear anything. We also thought we were going to get to see one, but we didn’t. We were real disappointed. After that we headed out to our beach house. We still had about an hour or so to go, so we jammed out to some music.

 AH!

 Bhahaha. It's a real bear skin!

The beach house was really cute. It wasn’t right on the beach- a quick walk for sure, but it was on a canal that led straight to the sound. It was perfect for us.

The town we were staying in!

Our beach house 

The inside :D Really cute!

 Views from the porch

                                     
Thursday we slept in some and then got up spent a little time on the porch and ate some breakfast. It was SO nice to have NOTHING to do, no commitments, and to just be able to relax. Then went driving through Avon  to check things out. We also went down to Buxton, where the Hatteras lighthouse is and just checked out the area. Next we tried to hit up the beach, but the wind was incredible. We sat up in a sand dune to keep the sand from stinging us so bad. We didn’t stay long- haha. We figured there were more days to spend on the beach where the wind and sand would not be so bad. After we showered and cleaned up we went to lunch on the water. It was beautiful. The wind was perfect for wind surfers and kite surfers, so we were able to watch some of them while we ate lunch. Other than that, we just enjoyed the day and then went and watched the Heat play at a bar next to where we were staying. WE WON! YAY! This was also the night the bad storm hit Raleigh and was supposed to hit us, but we got really lucky and it didn’t hit us but instead cooled the island down!

Lunch!

 GO HEAT!

 The bad storm we were supposed to have rolling in...it only sprinkled. haha

Friday we got up and lounged around on the patio and played a game. I also made some jalapeno poppers! YUMMY! After we hung out for awhile we hit the beach up again. It was still a little too windy, but much better than the day before.

We hung out for a while and then got ready for the Lost Colony play! It was inland, so we had a little bit of a drive. The play was really good! We think it could have been shorter, but it was really good. Apparently, we got really lucky too- the mosquitoes are usually TERRIBLE since it’s next to the water but the storm the night before dropped the temperature and kept the bugs at bay. It got into the upper 50s! It was a bit chilly. Haha. As we were leaving the cast members were outside!! I didn’t realize we could meet them! I, of course, had to have a picture with the queen! Haha. SO MUCH fun!

After the play we wanted to try out the local brewery. It’s really the only one on the Outer Banks and it’s powered by a windmill! So cool. We thought it was more of like a restaurant, and it might be during the day, but it was in full club mode. Haha. Not our style. haha The music was good though. We stayed for a little while and listened to a few songs. We actually saw someone we knew too! Small world. The beer was really good and they had a HUGE outdoor area with tons of cornhole boards. I’m sure it would be a cool place to go during the day too- probably more our speed then. Haha Anyway, we had a great time :D

Saturday, we had to check out of our beach house :(Sad day. I never even actually met the lady who we rented the house from. John didn’t meet her until we left! She came over around 9 Saturday morning and I was getting ready. It was such a chill place- the people were so trusting! Saturday night we stayed in a motel on the island- and Kristen and AJ came to join us! We were able to check in early and John and I hung out until Kristen and AJ arrived. We met for lunch and got some burgers and then headed to Cape Hatteras Lighthouse. We climbed ALL the way up! It was a gorgeous view. The park ranger at the top was very knowledgeable about all the lighthouses, so we talked to him for awhile. Now I want to learn as much as I can about them! Haha. After the lighthouse we headed out to the beach for awhile. We played bocce and just enjoyed the weather. For dinner we hit up a Mexican restaurant- it was DELICIOUS! We had a great time with them :D Glad they were able to come to the end of our trip!

Sunday we woke up and John and I decided to head to Bodie Lighthouse. We learned this was the first year you could actually go up in it- but we didn’t have time this trip. We did get some pictures at it though! Then we had the most AMAZING lunch. It was right on the water and gorgeous. It was surprisingly not that expensive for seafood either. I will definitely hit that place back up again. SO good. The restaurant just happened to be next to the Tanger Outlets, so we stopped by there for a bit too;D. Haha. We were trying to get back home to watch the State baseball game- we made it as the last inning was over- but we did get to listen to it. Then we watched the Heat game. GO HEAT! :D

Love this man :D

We saw this in one of the stores we went in..bhahaha.

Lunch on the water...

It was a spectacular trip. I really couldn’t have asked for a better one! :D Such a great way to celebrate our 5 year anniversary :D I sure do love that man!! Happy Anniversary babe!

Foods

Here are a few recipes I've either tried recently or have made a part of our regular menu! :D

Parmesan Crusted Chicken- one of mine and Johns favorite meals!

INGREDIENTS:

1/2 cup light mayo

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

4 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves (about 1-1/4 lbs.)

4 tsp. Italian seasoned dry bread crumbs

DIRECTIONS

Preheat oven to 425°.

Combine light mayo with cheese in medium bowl. Coat chicken with the mixture, then coat with bread crumbs.

Bake until chicken is thoroughly cooked, about 20 minutes.

Macaroni and Cheese!- this recipe stays with me ;-)

Sausage rice mix- I actually made this up with food I had at home. It turned out really good though! I will definitely be making this again.

INGREDIENTS:

1lb Turkey Sausage

2 cups cooked Rice

1 Green Pepper- diced

1 Onion- diced

8oz Tomato Sauce

Italian seasoning

Garlic powder

DIRECTIONS:

Cook the rice according to directions.

Cook the peppers and onions.

Add sliced turkey sauage in frying pan until browned.

Add the tomato sauce.

Add Italian seasoning and garlic power (i guessed at how much)

Saute for about 5 minutes.

Add to rice!

Herb Crusted Catfish- We really liked this one too! Will be making this again :D

INGREDIENTS:
4 (6 oz.) catfish fillets

Vegetable oil for pan

1 1/2 cups fresh breadcrumbs

Grated zest and juice of 1 lemon

4 tablespoons flat-leaf parsley, chopped

2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped

2 tablespoons mayonnaise

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

Sea salt

Freshly ground black pepper

DIRECTIONS:

Preheat oven to 425°F and lightly grease a shallow baking dish. Lay the cod in the dish.

In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, lemon zest and juice, and fresh herbs.

In a separate small bowl, mix the mayonnaise and mustard, season with salt and pepper, then spread evenly onto the cod.

Top with the breadcrumb and herb mixture and bake for 18–20 minutes or until the crust appears golden and crunchy.



Friday Favorites

Happy Memorial Day weekend! I'm really trying to work on being content, but hearing how much fun everyone is having this weekend makes me want to smack someone. haha. I hate working on a weekend when so much is going on! I know I volunteered (so I can use this time as flex time, but still...haha :D) Anyway, It hasnt been a bad weekend! Just not a fan of working this one.

A few favorites from the past weekish:

1) License Plate- We got our NC State License Plate for our car! SO EXCITED :D

2) Physical Therapy- John 'graduated' from physical therapy! They are going to leave his case open in case his back starts to hurt him again, but at least it's much better! I went with him to his last visit and his therapist showed me how to work the knots out of his back and showed me his exercises. Now I can hopefully help him a little more.

3) Steve- Last week we had Steve over for his birthday and I made my mac and cheese and parmesan crusted chicken- SO good! John also made a pitcher of lemon drops- YUMMY! It was a good time :D

4) Trivia Night- We go every now and then to trivia night with Kristen and AJ. We went the past two Tuesdays. Its a lot of fun! We one 3rd place this past week! SCORE! :D

5) The Farm- John and I finally made a trip down to the farm. Unfortunately, it was because Uncle Wilson had a minor heart attack and his other uncle is still very sick. Well we went to the farm first and there ended up being about 18 of us that got together! We also got to meet baby James- so freaking adorable. Almost enough to make me want one! I'm just not ready for the 24/7 part ;D After we spent a few hours at the farm we went to visit his other uncle- it was really nice to see everyone :D
SO adorable!!

 Eeriley like a family photo! haha Look how excited John is. :D

 He'll be a great daddy one day!

6) Lis and Jennie- Lis came into town this weekend! We went to dinner and all caught up. I love those ladies. I can always be myself around them- so completely comfortable with them. I also got to meet their pups! they are adorable and very sweet too :D

7) Django Unchained- Amazing movie. Highly recommend it!

8) Mexican- I've been on a HUGE mexican food kick lately. It's delicous and I just cant seem to get enough. and now I want it for lunch. haha

I am off tomorrow- I am VERY much looking forward to some time at the pool with the hubby :D Have a great day!

Weekend Fun!

This past weeknd was a TON of fun! I did work the entire weekend, but I still managed to make the best of it :D

Friday night John didnt work- so we had a date night! We decided it would be most fun to hit up some of our old favorites. I chose I love NY Pizza- because it's amazing! They had my favorite too!! Then we hit up Big Boss and hung out for a long time. We played darts, which I lost at. We played shuffle board, which I also lost at. Then we played pool! and I finally won! haha. It was a good time.

Cruisin'

 LOVE our car!

Trying to beat me at pool- HAH! 

Saturday, I worked all day then just chilled with the puppy, made some lasagnas, and of course indulged in some Prison Break :D

Sunday, I worked again- but it was Mother's Day! After work I had my mom and brother over and made some dinner for them. Then we took my mom to see the Great Gastby because she has always LOVED the book. It was REALLY good. (side note- when did movie tickets get to be $10 a ticket?! geez louis!) Anyway, I highly recommend it. Maybe wait until it comes out though- because you can buy the movie for the price it would cost to see it. lol. It was nice spending time with my mom and brother :D My mom also got a new (to her) car! (Hers was totaled shortly after ours was...we have NO luck with cars. haha. She actually got an amazing settlement out of hers and didnt have to pay much for the new one!) She let me drive it to the movies- its really nice!! Anyway, it was a lot of fun. It was the first Mother's Day in a loooong time I got to spend with her:D

Monday, we continued to celebrate Mother's day and made dinner for John's mom and dad. His dad usually always makes the food when we go over, but John and I thought it would be nice if we took dinner to them this time! We ended up staying over there past 11! It was nice to catch up with them and hang out. Carter was of course THRILLED to be at Grandma and Grandpas. And of course he harassed them thoroughly to throw the frisbee with him. haha I love that dog!

I am VERY excited for this weekend too! I have Thursday off, only have to work 3 hours on Friday, and then am off Saturday and Sunday. It is much needed! :D

Friday Favorites!

Always late...BUT 'Ive worked straight through last week and this weekend, I am pooped and very ready for a day off :D It's coming soon!

1) the Weather- it has been AMAZING. Finally no more rain :D

2) 10K training- I started this past week! Very excited about it. Def on my way to running a half marathon! I thought a 10k would be a good next step. Plus- I can handle the training schedule for it. The training schedule for a half marathon is a bit out of my skill level still. haha.

3) Prison Break- I picked it back up and am on the last season! It's gotten really good again :D

4) Pans!!!- For our wedding John and I got Calphalon Contemporary Non-Stick pots and pans. Well they have a lifetime warrenty if there is a manufacturer issue! (THANK YOU KRYSTAL!) I sent back two of my pans that the non-stick had come off on and they sent me two brand new pans to replace them last week. I am SO excited!

5) Laundry Detergent- I made my own laundry detergent! (again, thanks to Krystal!). It smells amazing! and was super cheap!!! and it made a ton. It works great too! SO happy with it :D

Friday Favorites!

I know I say this most Fridays, but praise the Lord for Fridays! haha. SO gald it's already here :D There have been SO many favorties between this week and last!!! I've been waiting for pictures for some, but i'll go ahead and share what they are!

1) MY SISTER IS MARRIED!!!! Very sweet ceremony and I couldnt be happier for her! I'll have a much more detailed post after I get pictures :D
                                                   Me and the beautiful bride!!!

2) WE GOT A NEW CAR!! We FINALLY were able to replace Woodstock. Still working on a name for this one- but I am in love with it! It's a 2009, so 4 years newer than the other one and we got it at a GREAT price! :D YAY! We've finally been able to ride with the top down :D

This one is orange! :D Still working on a name!

3) Week off- It was BEYOND nice to have so many days off. It may have included buying a car and getting my sister married, but just not having to worry about work was wonderful! We definitely relaxed when we could and got to spend some time with friends.

                                  Hanging out with the bride and groom on rehearsal day!

 Krystal and Josh came for the wedding!! So Carter and his girlfriend got to hang out

- they exhausted themselves! haha

4) John's new job!- John got hired as an editor at WRAL! I am SO proud of him!! It's still part time and not the best hours, but he did get a raise and this job will give him some different experience. I know he loves to edit too, so I think he will be happier. So far so good! This week he trained and he actually worked normal hours! haha It has been great having him home at night!

5) This week- I mentioned John has been home every night this week- between that and the weather being so dreary all week- I decided to stop stressing about working out and everything else. I've enjoyed having him home and just relaxing with him. The week off from all of that has been good and it will be good to have had it before I start training for my half marathon!

6) American Aquarium- it's tonight! SO excited!!! :D

7) Mani/Pedi- I took Sherry to get a mani/pedi before she got married and I have not had one in SO long. It was a GREAT one too! So relaxing and they did a great job :D Made me wish I could do it all the time! haha

Happy Friday! I hope you all have a great weekend!!!!