Courtney's Organized Chaos

Oh, How Pinteresting Wednesday

2012-03-07T20:16:00.005-05:00

I'm linking up with Michelle from The Vintage Apple for Oh, How Pinteresting!!

I am loving all things Pinterest lately...it has come in so handy with wedding planning!!

Here are just a few of my favorite pins of the week:

Source: someecards.com via Courtney on Pinterest

Source: Uploaded by user via Courtney on Pinterest

Source: iwastesomuchtime.com via Courtney on Pinterest

Source: polyvore.com via Courtney on Pinterest

Source: nailstah.com via Courtney on Pinterest

Source: lindseygomes.com via Courtney on Pinterest

Source: fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net via Courtney on Pinterest

Source: stylemepretty.com via Courtney on Pinterest

Head over to Michelle's blog and link-up!

Thank You!

2012-03-02T18:29:00.000-05:00

I just want to say thank you to all you lovely ladies!! I wrote about my frustrations and y'all came to my rescue!!

I have been looking around and found a local college that offers night/weekend classes for masters degrees in education so I'm going to try to find out some more information on that!

I just want to say that y'all are amazing! I hope y'all have a great weekend and stay tuned for an upcoming giveaway!!

Thank you, thank you, thank you!!!!

Soul Searching

2012-02-29T19:44:00.001-05:00

I am really frustrated.

I went to college wanting to be a doctor {insert laughter}. After being thrown in to both chemistry and biology classes my first semester of freshman year, I quickly realized how much I did not like science and how much science did not like me!

I did a quick soul search {quick because deep down I think I secretly knew what I loved already} and determined that I would change my major to history as quickly as I could.

But, what did I want to do with my history degree?? Teach, of course. So, I decided to get a degree in history with a teaching license.

I had successfully completed my first teaching class in the fall of sophomore year and was looking forward to becoming immersed in teaching classes and history classes for the remainder of my college career.

Fast forward to the second semester of sophomore year. I came down with mono and ended up missing most of the second semester. I felt like I didn't have anyone at school to turn to to tell me what to do. In hindsight, I should have medically withdrawn for the semester, gotten better, and taken summer classes to get back on track. I tried to tough it out, but the teaching classes were far too demanding to do from home via the internet, so I ended up dropping them. At that point, I was a junior in college and too far behind to continue with my teaching license attached to my history degree. So, I dropped it.

I graduated this past May with a degree in History and a minor in English Literature.

Here comes the frustration...

I still want to teach.

I still feel like I have no one to ask "HOW DO I BECOME A LICENSED TEACHER??"

I don't have the ability to quit my job and go back to school full-time...I have these things called student loans that need to be paid back!

All I want to do is teach. I want to help kids become as excited about history as I was...and still am.

There has got to be a way to teach.

Is there anyone out there that has gone through something like this? Are there any resources that you can refer me to? I have tried checking out the state of Virginia website, but all it does it send me to some law mumbo-jumbo that I don't understand.

I really just want a straight answer...what are my options to becoming a licensed public school teacher? I know there are tons of schools that need teachers and I truly want to be one.

Monday's Style File: Oscar Fashion

2012-02-27T09:55:00.003-05:00

It's time for Monday's Style File again!

This week, I'm featuring all things Oscar!

As usual, this year was full of beautiful dresses and these are just a few of my favorites...

Source: justjared.com via Courtney on Pinterest

{Katie Holmes}

Source: justjared.com via Courtney on Pinterest

{Claire Danes}

Source: justjared.com via Courtney on Pinterest

{Nina Dobrev}

Source: justjared.com via Courtney on Pinterest

{Penelope Cruz}

Source: justjared.com via Courtney on Pinterest

{Natalie Portman}

Source: justjared.com via Courtney on Pinterest

{Octavia Spencer}

Who were your favorites of the night?

Grab a button and link-up!

Oh, How Pinteresting!!

2012-02-22T06:00:00.000-05:00

I'm linking up with Michelle from The Vintage Apple again this week for Oh, How Pinteresting!!

Here are my favorites from Pinterest this week:

Source: someecards.com via Courtney on Pinterest

So true!!

Source: Uploaded by user via Courtney on Pinterest

This is so beautiful!

Source: marthastewart.com via Courtney on Pinterest

Oh, yummy!!

Source: flickr.com via Courtney on Pinterest

Brownie waffles, enough said!!

Source: tastebook.com via Courtney on Pinterest

Princess punch!

Source: myspawaterbook.com via Courtney on Pinterest

This looks so tasty!!

Source: stylemepretty.com via Courtney on Pinterest

I am IN LOVE with this bouquet!!

Source: stylemepretty.com via Courtney on Pinterest

And just as much in love with this one!!

Source: stylemepretty.com via Courtney on Pinterest

I love this centerpiece!!

Source: polyvore.com via Courtney on Pinterest

Please, get in my closet!!

Source: sayingimages.info via Courtney on Pinterest

Sadly, this is my ever.single.morning!

Source: quickmeme.com via Courtney on Pinterest

This is so Elli!!!!

Source: itstaylormade.com via Courtney on Pinterest

DIY Casserole Carriers

Head on over to Michelle's blog and link-up!!

Recently

2012-02-21T20:32:00.003-05:00

This post is going to be insanely random, but that is just how my life has been lately! Tom was out of town for work last week in Rhode Island, came back into town late Sunday night and left today for Buffalo, New York.

To start off with, here are a few OOTDs:

I am new to Scentsy...and absolutely loving the products!! I ordered a warmer and then the Lavender and Quiver scents. I actually got another order in today of more scents to try out: Ocean, Pima Cotton, Clean Breeze, and Home Sweet Home. I am so excited!!

My mom mailed my Valentine's present...it is the cutest little diamond owl necklace! Isn't he sweet?!

Last week, I became a little Starbucks obssessed!! I hate to say it, but I went three out of the four days I worked last week...I just needed a little pick me up {I order light drinks to save calories!!}. I loved their Valentine's cups!!

The weather here has been beautiful {minus the light snow we had on Sunday, but let's just forget that, okay?!}. It has seriously gotten me in the mood for spring/summer!! Plus, it's going to be 72* tomorrow...what is going on?! But, I do get to wear my new sunglasses that Tom got me!!

Elli usually gets up on my bed to snuggle, but Trevor's dog {Simba} NEVER has gotten up on ANY bed in his life...until Saturday. When he decided he had to have my attention so he stole Elli's spot, so she stole mine!! Um...where do I go???

Did you guys see my guest post over at MJ's blog Teaching in Heels yesterday??

If not, you should definitely head on over there...I wrote about my Spring must-haves!!

I hope y'all are having a fantastic week so far!!

Monday's Style File

2012-02-20T09:56:00.001-05:00

Hey guys...I hope everyone had a wonderful weekend!!

This week for Monday's Style File, instead of showing a particular celebrity, I am just going to show off my favorite recent pictures of various celebs...

Source: justjared.buzznet.com via Courtney on Pinterest

Grab a button, link-up, and show us what celebrity style {or styles} your loving this week!!

Wedding: Cake, Bouquets, and Bridesmaids Dresses

2012-02-16T19:51:00.006-05:00

Hey y'all! I'm sorry I have been so MIA this week...things have been crazy here! I thought that I would share with you guys some updates for our wedding {which is less than 4 months away...eek!}.

The Cake

As you guys know, last time we were in North Carolina, we went and tasted cakes at the cutest bakery: Maxie B's. We decided on the strawberry filled, butter cream iced cake...so delicious!! Dad and Betsy are going over there this weekend to officially place the order! I am so excited!!

This is similar to the design that we chose {subtract the flowers and maybe add hydrangeas}:

Source: stylemepretty.com via Courtney on Pinterest

The Bouquets

For the bridesmaids, I want to do all blue hydrangeas. Very simple.

Something like this:

Source: stylemepretty.com via Courtney on Pinterest

{But in blue}

For me, I want an all-white bouquet. I am not sure if I want hydrangeas or if I want roses, or some combination of the two.

Here are some of my favorites:

Source: weddings.theknot.com via Courtney on Pinterest

Source: bing.com via Courtney on Pinterest

I love the black and white striped ribbon on this one:

Source: ritzybee.typepad.com via Courtney on Pinterest

I really want to wrap the bouquets in ribbon and have a vintage brooch on it, but I'm not sure!!

Bridesmaids Dresses

So after finding out that the dresses that we had purchased, I decided to order simple black dresses instead of making the girls buy ANOTHER aqua dress they would never wear again!

Here is the one that I picked out:

I think that's about it for now for wedding updates! I'm going back home the first weekend in March to figure out the menu/visit the venue with my mom and order invitations with my grandmother. I am so excited!!

Cookin' with Courtney: Italian Pork Chops

2012-02-14T12:00:00.000-05:00

This is such a tasty way of preparing pork chops! It is similar to a chicken parmesan, but just with pork.

Italian Pork Chops

Ingredients:

6 pork chops
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 egg, well beaten
1/4 cup water
3/4 cup Italian breadcrumbs {I use just regular breadcrumbs and add in Italian Seasonings to taste}
1/4 cup olive oil
1 {8 oz.} can tomato sauce
6 slices mozzarella cheese

Directions:

Place each pork chop on a sheet of waxed paper and flatten to 1/4 inch thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin {I try to just buy very thin pieces of pork chops as to skip this step}.

Dredge porkchops in flour. Combine egg and water. Dip each chop in egg mixture and dredge in breadcrumbs.

Saute chops in olive oil on both sides until browned. Place in 13x9-inch baking dish. Spoon half of tomato sauce over chops. Place a slice of cheese on each chop. Spoon remaining sauce over cheese.

Bake at 425 degrees for 45 minutes.

Serves 4 to 6.

Valentine's Day Swap Reveal

2012-02-13T11:29:00.000-05:00

You guys have no idea how excited I am to finally post about the Valentine's Day swap!! I got partnered with Sarah from Fortune Favors the Brave...go check out her blog! She is so sweet and has a great sense of humor!!

We told each other our favorite things and she totally nailed what I love!!

Here is what she sent me:

Thank you so much, Sarah!! I love everything!

Quick Recap of Last Weekend

2012-02-09T06:00:00.000-05:00

Hey y'all, I wanted to just record our weekend happenings of this past weekend! I promise, eventually I am going to post a weekend recap on Monday, not Thursday!

Anyways...

On Friday, I started feeling really sick. Like horrible! During lunch at work, I ran out to Target and grabbed some cough drops and a cheap thermometer. I checked my temperature and wasn't running a fever so I toughed it out for the rest of the day, specifically because {a} I didn't want to miss any work and {b} I had a massage scheduled for that night and didn't want to reschedule!

By the time I made it home, I had a fever of 99.3 {in the car} and then 100.3 {at home}. I had to take liquid tylenol because my throat was so swollen, but still toughed it out and went to my massage. It was absolutely amazing! Plus, the table was heated which felt so good to my chill-ridden body!!

The next day we had planned on going up to the outlets in Williamsburg to look at bridesmaids dresses, but since I wasn't feeling too hot we hung around the house. We did make it to Sam's Club to order my wedding band. Yes...I found my dream wedding band at Sam's Club. But, they have amazing jewelry at very reasonable prices and let's face it--we are on a budget! We are still on the hunt for Tom's band...where did you ladies find your husband's bands?? He is surprisingly very indecisive about what he wants!!

On Sunday, we prepared ourselves for the big game! Tom's family are huge Giants fans, so we were pulling really hard for them throughout the game and were so happy that they won!! I even made a customized ice cream cake for the event!! :-)

Here are just a few pictures that I took with the iPhone...you can tell I was sick since I took a grand total of three pictures!!

My grandmother {M} gave me this cute notepad the last time we were home. I have a feeling the pages are going to get filled up very quickly with all I have to do!! Thank you, M! I love it!

I hope y'all have a great Thursday!!

Oh, How Pinteresting Wednesday: Valentine's Edition!

2012-02-08T06:00:00.000-05:00

I'm linking up with Michelle from The Vintage Apple again this week for Oh, How Pinteresting Wednesday!

This week, I'm featuring all things Valentine's Day!

Source: i221.photobucket.com via Courtney on Pinterest

Source: sweetsugarbelle.com via Courtney on Pinterest

Source: domestic-fashionista.blogspot.com via Courtney on Pinterest

Source: sheskindacrafty.blogspot.com via Courtney on Pinterest

Source: designeditor.typepad.com via Courtney on Pinterest

Source: teachcraftlove.blogspot.com via Courtney on Pinterest

Source: orangebeautiful.com via Courtney on Pinterest

Source: granvillehouse.blogspot.com via Courtney on Pinterest

Source: lesscakemorefrosting.com via Courtney on Pinterest

Source: eighteen25.blogspot.com via Courtney on Pinterest

Source: thetwineryblog.com via Courtney on Pinterest

Source: dearlillieblog.blogspot.com via Courtney on Pinterest

Go link-up with Michelle and show us what you've been busy pinning this week!!

Currently

2012-02-07T18:33:00.002-05:00

I thought I would come up with a few of my "currents" to give y'all a glimpse into my life right now...

Current Mood: Sleepy and sickly...I went to the doctor today and they told me I have strep and I can't go back to work until Thursday. Hey, at least I can maybe catch up on blogging {and maybe get Kate's new blog design up and running}!

Currently Watching: How I Met Your Mother season one on DVD...I get so indecisive on what to watch when I'm sick! This weekend it has ranged from the original Charlie's Angels TV show to Modern Family to wanting to watch scary movies...go figure!

Currently Wanting: New spring clothes!! It's only February, but I'm already dying for some fun, brightly colored spring clothes!

Current Favorite Food: I am loving the Mandarine Orange Spice Herbal Tea for the Keurig...good for my sore throat!

Currently Running Through My Brain: All of the wedding planning that I have to get done in four months! Not to mention the attempt to lose some weight {do y'all have any advice on this last part?!}

Currently Looking Forward To: Going back to North Carolina again this weekend to do some more wedding planning! We are ordering invitations this weekend!! :-)

Weekend of 1/27/12 Recap

2012-02-06T10:46:00.004-05:00

Better late than never, huh?

In my defense, I have been feeling pretty sick for the past several days and just haven't felt up to blogging much.

However, I do want to blog about the weekend of January 27, 2012 because we got some MAJOR wedding planning done!

I left work early that Friday to head back to North Carolina with Tom. We got home around 7:00 and mom had dinner ready for us {barbeque chicken, mashed potatoes, and green beans--yum!}. After dinner, we went uptown to a new bar to see a band play.

The next morning, we ran some errands around town and then got my taxes done {fun, fun, I know!}. In the afternoon, we met my dad, Betsy, and grandparents for dinner at PF Changs. While we were waiting for our table to be ready, we were browsing around Swoozies and my grandmother pointed out some beautiful wedding invitations. While we were looking through their giant book for pricing information, I spied some very simple, elegant invitations that I really liked. We got them priced to and they are right on the money!! :-) We are going to do the cream colored {behind the white}.

After dinner, we went over to Maxie B's bakery to taste our wedding cake! We decided on white cake with a strawberry filling and buttercream icing! I also picked out our design {something very similar to the following...}

Source: stylemepretty.com via Courtney on Pinterest

We did find out that we would have to go to Plan B for the bridesmaids' dresses--the ones we bought last year do not fit anymore. Not to worry: I'm going to go back up to the Outlets in Williamsburg to try to find some great dresses for cheap!

When we got back on Sunday, I found out my new Virginia driver's license came in the mail! Look how different I look between ages 18 and 22!!

I hope y'all have a great day!!

Monday's Style File: Emmy Rossum

2012-02-06T10:32:00.001-05:00

It's time to link-up for Monday's Style File!

This week I'm featuring Emmy Rossum.

I loved her in Phantom of the Opera, and boy does she know how to dress!! She wears very elegant and classic clothing--I would love to have a day in her closet!! :-)

Source: justjared.buzznet.com via Courtney on Pinterest

Now, grab a button, link-up, and show us what celebrity style you are loving this week!!

Tag, I'm It!

2012-02-01T20:58:00.000-05:00

Lauren from On a Lighter Note tagged me in a fun post, so now it's my turn to answer the questions.

First, the rules:

1. You must post the rules
2. Post 11 fun facts about yourself on the blog post.
3. Answer the questions the tagger set for you in their post and then create 11 new question for the people you tagged.
4. Tag 12 people and link them on your post.
5. Let them know you've tagged them!

11 Fun Facts About Moi

1. I watch way too much television. There, I've said it. My current favorites are: How I Met Your Mother, Modern Family, Tori and Dean: Home Sweet Hollywood, Bones, Body of Proof, True Blood {even though it's not on right now}...and so many more than that I can't even think of them!

2. I have turned in to a reading machine since graduating! I am almost up to date on the Sookie Stackhouse series {waiting for the library to get the newest one back in stock}--I've only been reading them since mid-June!! I would love some recommendations for some new series!!

3. I wear glasses--but not enough! I don't know if it's forgetfulness or just defiance; I just don't wear them. I am hoping to get a brand-spanking-new pair soon so maybe that will get me to wearing them!

4. I used to HATE guacamole and avocados and now I cannot get enough of them! I still prefer my guacamole to be fresh and chunky, but I just never knew what I was missing!

5. I have a HUGE sweet tooth! {Which is not good when you are trying to lose weight for your wedding...} My current favorites are Jolly Ranchers, Gobstoppers, and Hershey bars. I try to limit myself to one or two tiny pieces a day, just to satisfy that sweet tooth!

6. I am looking so forward to our honeymoon! We are going to Orlando and have a lot of fun stuff planned, including Disney World, World of Harry Potter, and a Tampa Bay Rays game {they are playing the Mets the week we are down there--Tom's favorite MLB team!!}. I am looking forward to some fun and relaxation...only a little over 4 months away!!

7. My pet peeve is people picking/grazing at food. I do not "do" buffets or pot-lucks. It really and seriously grosses me out to deal with other people messing with my food!

8. Much like Lauren, I seem to leave bobbi pins in every single room. They just multiply, I swear!

9. Every time someone leaves, I always tell them I love them and to be careful--always have, always will!

10. I always write out to-do lists--for work, wedding planning, groceries, Target, things to accomplish...it makes me feel so good to mark things off of the list! {I am totally guilty of writing things down that I have already done, just so I can mark it off!}

11. I have been cooking up a storm lately...and I'm loving every minute of it! It has definitely helped build my confidence in the kitchen {especially when Tom's dad told me that I'm 100% with all of my dishes I've cooked!!}

Lauren's Questions

1. If you got to choose your name what would it be?
I really like my name {Courtney Hill}. Hill is my mom's middle name, my grandmother's middle name, and my Great-Grandmother's last name. My favorite girls names are Sophia, Lucy, and Elisabeth...maybe for future babies...

2. Who is your favorite {clothing} designer?
Right now, I'm loving J. Crew, Ann Taylor Loft, and {as always} 7 for All Mankind and Citizens of Humanity--too bad I can't afford any of their jeans right now!!

3. What is your biggest "what if" moment?
Oh, for sure, my biggest "what if" moment is "What if I didn't got to Elon and meet Tom? Where would I be now?" Don't worry--I am totally 110% happy that that is how it worked out, but it scares me to wonder "what if" about that!

4. What is your go-to method for relieving stress?
Asking Tom for a shoulder massage! I hold ALL of my stress in my shoulders and nothing beats a good massage and heating up my new shoulder heating pad!!

5. If you could have any occupation what would it be?
I am very happy with what I'm doing now! I am an administrative assistant for a doctor {the practice I work for, each doctor has their own specific administrative assistant and nurse} and love that I get to interact with kids everyday! If I could re-do college, I would continue to pursue a career in teaching--I really think I would love to teach.

6. What's your favorite way to kill time?
Reading blogs, browsing through Pinterest, shopping

7. If you could only watch ONE tv show for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Oh man, this is a tough one! Right now, I would say Modern Family. That show always makes me laugh!!

8.Do you have a signature hairstyle or a "go-to" look? What is it?
I always twist my bangs back! I just can't stand to have hair in my face all day! I either twist my bangs up and pull my hair back into a low ponytail or I straighten my hair out. Just depends on how much time I have in the morning!

9. How do you spend most weekends (when you have nothing specific planned)?
Most weekends, Tom and I try to run our errands on Saturday {Target, grocery store, etc.} and then I come back and cook something for dinner. Sunday, we usually hang around the house, watch sports, and I read. Laundry is usually a big priority on weekends, too!

10. Wal-Mart or Target?
Target!

11. What do you call a carbonated beverage? (i.e. pop, soda, a drink, coke)
Coke

My Questions for You

1. What is your favorite movie?
2. Coke, Diet Coke, Pepsi, or Diet Pepsi?
3. If you could relive one day of your life, when would it be?
4. What is your go-to meal?
5. Do you have a quote that you try to live by?
6. Where do you like to shop?
7. What would be your dream vacation?
8. How do you relax and de-stress?
9. What are your favorite books?
10. What does your normal day look like?
11. White gold or yellow gold?

I tag:

Shelli @ Everyday Everharts
Kate @ Kate as of Late
Michelle @ The Vintage Apple
Allison @ Moments Like This
Jenny @ Strickly Stricklands
MJ @ Teaching in Heels
Magan @ A Touch of Class
Jennifer @ Perfectly Imperfect
Sara @ Living Our Dream
Ashley @ Life After the Aisle
Kathleen@ Places I Will Go
Amanda @ Simple Girl, Simple Pleasures

Oh, How Pinteresting!

2012-02-01T06:25:00.003-05:00

I'm linking up with Michelle at The Vintage Apple again this week for Oh, How Pinteresting with more wedding pins! I hope y'all are getting sick of them yet!!

Source: weddings.theknot.com via Courtney on Pinterest

Source: stylemepretty.com via Courtney on Pinterest

Which bouquet is your favorite?

Monday's Style File: Leighton Meester

2012-01-30T08:42:00.001-05:00

It's time for Monday's Style File!! What is Monday's Style File? It's a place to link-up all of your favorite celebrity styles!

This week, I'm featuring Leighton Meester!

I figured, since I figured her partner-in-crime from Gossip Girl last week {Blake Lively}, I should give her her own shot today! I love her classic styles, but it always has an ultra fashionista vibe to it!

Here are a few of my favorites:

Source: justjared.buzznet.com via Courtney on Pinterest

Head over to my Celebrity Style Board on Pinterest to see all of my celebrity style pins!

Now, grab a button, link-up, and show us your favorite celebrity styles of the week!!

Current Obsessions

2012-01-27T06:00:00.000-05:00

Here are just a few things I'm currently obsessing over...

{one}

Golden French Toast K-Cups

Source: google.com via Courtney on Pinterest

I love flavored coffees! This one is seriously the best K-Cup I have ever had! When you brew it, it smells just like maple syrup and is very light. I have already gotten half of my office hooked on this coffee!

Unfortunately it is a seasonal flavor, so Tom and I went to Bed, Bath, and Beyond this past weekend and bought three more boxes. I may have pouted a little in the store that he would let me buy only three boxes. And, sadly, I am not kidding!

{two}

Our Fine China

Source: bedbathandbeyond.com via Courtney on Pinterest

I have loved this china for close to eight years and just knew that it would be my fine wedding china. I mean, how could you NOT love polka dots?! Luckily, I have a great fiance who let me have final say in what china we chose. We compromised...I picked out the fine china and he picked out the everyday china...win-win!

{three}

The Giants made it to the Super Bowl!! The game Sunday night was very nerve-wracking for this family, but we were super excited with the outcome!! After the game, Tom informed us that we could not change our clothes until the Super Bowl because they were lucky...I seriously hope he was kidding! I'm all for wearing lucky clothes for the game, but they need to be washed!!

{four}

I am loving all of the cooking that I have been doing lately!! On Saturday, I made a big batch of meat sauce and marinara sauce and froze them for future meals; I made a batch of chocolate chip cookies; and then Sunday I cooked Italian Porkchops, creamed corn, mashed potatoes, and steamed asparagus! I already have requests to make my brisket for the Super Bowl!!

{five}

We are going cake tasting this weekend!! I am soooo excited about this! The place where we are getting our cake from was featured in this month's Southern Living as one of the best places to get cakes from in the South. So, we know we are in good hands!! We are planning on getting a strawberry-filled, buttercream frosted wedding cake...I cannot wait to try it!!

{Dad sent me this picture of the cake from when he and Betsy went to check out the bakery--looks so good!!}

Our Registry

2012-01-26T06:00:00.000-05:00

Oh my goodness, do we have so much work to do on this registry!! But, I am oh so excited about each and every thing that we have registered for. I mean, I have loved our fine china pattern for at least 8 years, so I feel very confident that we have registered for some good things!!

Tom and I started registering two weekends ago at Bed, Bath, and Beyond. We were cruising through the registering until it was like we hit a brick wall and completely got overwhelmed by the process! It's okay though, luckily we still have a few months to get everything done! {I'm trying to stay positive here, can you tell?!}

Here are a few of my favorite things we have registered for {so far}:

Fine China

Source: bedbathandbeyond.com via Courtney on Pinterest

Everyday China

Source: bedbathandbeyond.com via Courtney on Pinterest

Wine Glasses

Source: bedbathandbeyond.com via Courtney on Pinterest

Cookware

Source: bedbathandbeyond.com via Courtney on Pinterest

New Keurig!

Source: bedbathandbeyond.com via Courtney on Pinterest

KitchenAid Stand Mixer

Source: bedbathandbeyond.com via Courtney on Pinterest

Cuisinart Griddler

Source: bedbathandbeyond.com via Courtney on Pinterest

Crock Pot

Source: bedbathandbeyond.com via Courtney on Pinterest

What were your favorite things that you registered for ??

Oh, How Pinteresting!!

2012-01-25T06:00:00.000-05:00

I'm linking up with Michelle from The Vintage Apple again this week for Oh, How Pineteresting Wednesday!!

This week, I'm going to show off my latest round of wedding inspiration! June 9 will be here before we know it!!

Source: photo63898.seesaa.net via Courtney on Pinterest

Source: google.com via Courtney on Pinterest

Source: bethsflowersonline.com via Courtney on Pinterest

Source: iloveswmag.com via Courtney on Pinterest

Source: stylemepretty.com via Courtney on Pinterest

Source: sparklersonline.com via Courtney on Pinterest

Source: weddingbee.com via Courtney on Pinterest

Head over to Michelle's blog and link-up!!

Cookin' with Courtney: Crock Pot Chicken Chili

2012-01-24T06:00:00.000-05:00

I am not a huge fan of real beef chili, so I was so excited when I tried {and LOVED} this chili recipe! It has a Southwestern kick to it and is super tasty! Plus, it is easy to prepare!

Crock Pot Chicken Chili

Ingredients:

1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
3 chicken breasts
1 cup chopped onion
1 can Original Rotel
1 can diced tomatoes
1 (15-ounce) can pinto beans, rinsed and drained
1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
1/4 cup minced fresh cilantro
1/4 cup reduced-fat sour cream

Directions:

Combine cumin, salt, and pepper; sprinkle over chicken.

Place chicken in an electric slow cooker; stir in onion, tomatoes, and Rotel. Cover with lid; cook on high-heat setting for 3 hours. Stir in beans. Cover; cook on high-heat setting 1 hour.

Shred chicken breasts and mix.

Serve chili and top with cilantro and sour cream.

Source: myrecipes.com via Courtney on Pinterest

**My mom originally found this recipe from Cooking Light via myrecipes.com. The original recipe can be found here. I have changed it from using chicken thighs to chicken breasts and various chilies to using Rotel--just much easier!!**

Monday's Style File: Blake Lively

2012-01-23T06:30:00.000-05:00

After a few weeks hiatus, Monday's Style File is back!! What is Monday's Style File?? It's a place to link-up and show your favorite celebrity styles of the week!

This week, I'm featuring Blake Lively.

To be perfectly honest, there are some outfits that she wears that I am not a fan of. But, there are a lot of her outfits that I absolutely love!! She tends to keep {most} of her outfits very classic in style and that is why I love them! I am very behind on Gossip Girl {I think the last episode I watched was in season 2}, but after seeing all of her styles, I am very excited to start watching again via Netflix!

Here are my favorite outfits of Blake's...

Source: justjared.buzznet.com via Courtney on Pinterest

Now, grab a button, link-up, and show us your favorite celebrity styles of the week!!

Trip to Washington, DC

2012-01-19T06:00:00.000-05:00

This past weekend, Tom's family took us up to Washington, DC. Can you believe that I have never been there before?! It was absolutely freezing while we were up there {of course, it's in the 60s there this week!}, but we managed to bundle up and make the best of it!! I'm going to do a recap first and then post all of my pictures {so buckle up, this is going to be a long post!}.

We had such a great time on our trip! We left Saturday morning at 7 AM and drove straight into DC. We started out by going to the Holocaust Museum, which was very sad and moving. I didn't take any pictures there because it is a memorial, but I highly recommend going there if you are ever in DC. It was one of my favorite places we went to--a lot to see so budget a lot of time for it!

After the Holocaust Museum, we headed to grab a quick lunch. After lunch, we walked a few blocks over to check out the White House. I could not believe I was so close to the White House...even though we were really far away!

We then headed over to the American History Museum. Oh my goodness, this place is HUGE!! Unfortunately, several of the exhibits had closed just a few days before, but there was still so much to see!! I absolutely loved this museum--especially seeing the Ruby Slippers up close and the First Ladies' dresses...so neat!

After the American History Museum {where we spent over 3 hours}, we headed out to Springfield, VA where we stayed {about 45 minutes outside of DC} to check in to our hotel and grab dinner. While we ate dinner, we watched the Broncos game {which we were very disappointed by}.

The next morning, we woke up bright and early for the continental breakfast. We then headed to the nearest metro station to head in to the city. We headed straight for the Natural History Museum {we wanted to make sure we did the museum first so we wouldn't have to rush through it later in the day}. My favorite things in this museum were the jewelry {go figure}. The Hope Diamond was breathtaking, but so were all of the earrings, necklaces, and tiaras! I would love to have some of those pieces!!

We grabbed a quick lunch in the food court of the Natural History Museum. It was surprisingly delicious!! I had a bowl of Butternut Squash soup and it was so yummy!!

After lunch, we walked over to see {most} of the monuments. Unfortunately since it is winter, all of the fountains were drained and they are repairing the reflecting pool so there was no reflecting going on while we were there!

We headed first to the World War II Monument, which was beautiful {and gigantic}! After the World War II Monument, we walked by what would be the reflecting pool to the Lincoln Memorial. I could not get over the size of this!! I guess in pictures it doesn't look quite as big, but holy cow was it huge!! We then walked over the Vietnam Memorial--the shear number of names on this wall is just mind blowing! Before heading back to the metro, we stopped by the Korean War Memorial, which was really cool...it is life size soldier statues out on patrol {definitely my second favorite monument...my first favorite I found the next day!}.

We had to wait 30 minutes for our train because {a} it is the weekend and they cut back on services on the weekend and {b} they were working on the lines. Tom, Trevor, and Tom's dad were chomping at the bit to get back to the hotel to watch the New York Giants game. I thought they were going to have a fit waiting on the train!! It finally came and luckily by the time we got to the hotel, the game was tied at 3-3, which Tom said was almost as good as 0-0!

After a busy two days, we were all exhausted! But we still had one more half day left!!

Monday morning, we woke up and had breakfast and checked out of the hotel. We headed to Arlington National Cemetery to see Tom's great-grandfather's grave, as well as several other "tourist-worthy" grave sites. The view from John F. Kennedy's grave is breath-taking...it has the perfect view of the DC skyline.

After going to Arlington, we drove back in to DC to drive by the Martin Luther King, Jr. memorial {since it was Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, it was PACKED!} as well as the Jefferson Memorial. I cannot wait to go back to DC so I can see these memorials up close! While we were circling around, we got stuck in traffic and we couldn't figure out what was going on. Then helicopters started flying overhead and we knew something was up. Sure enough, the presidential motorcade drove by! I just thought that was the coolest thing in the world!!

I asked if we could swing by the Iwo Jima Memorial on the way out of town, if we could find it. It is not located in downtown DC, but off a little ways. I am so glad that we found it. It was my absolute favorite Memorial/Monument we saw of the trip. Now, much like the Lincoln Memorial, I had always assumed this Memorial would be like life-sized humans lifting the American flag. Oh no. It is more like Jolly Green Giant sized people lifting the American flag. Plus, it had an amazing view of DC. Absolutely breathtaking! It was a great way to end our trip to DC!

Now, for the pictures. Unfortunately, I could not find my point and shoot camera, so these are all iPhone pictures...

{Occupy DC?!}

{Washington Monument}

{Tom and Me in front of the White House}

{Trevor, Tom, and Me in front of the White House}

{I thought this was too funny: this van was in the American History Museum...my mom had an all-blue version of this when I was little!!}

{Ruby Slippers}

{Dorothy's Slippers!}

{Michael Jackson's Hat}

{Infamous Farrah Fawcett swimsuit}

{Mamie Eisenhower's dress}

{Jacqueline Kennedy's dress}

{Michelle Obama's dress}

{Dolly Madison's dress}

{Abraham Lincoln's hat}

{World War II Propaganda--doesn't it look like Darth Vader?!}

{Piece of steel from the World Trade Center}

{Lunch Counter from F.W. Woolworth's in Greensboro, NC}

{I did my senior history thesis on the sit-in that took place at this lunch counter; I told them this represents my history degree!!}

{Washington Monument at night}

{Capitol Building at night}

{Bright and early on the metro!}

{Priority Seating}

{Sleepy head}

{Natural History Museum}

{Trevor next to "Simba"}

{Hope Diamond}

{World War II Memorial}

{Tom and Trevor at the Lincoln Memorial}

{Tom and Me in front of the Lincoln Memorial}

{Tom and Me in the Lincoln Memorial}

{Tom and Trevor in the Lincoln Memorial}

{Tom, Trevor, and Me in the Lincoln Memorial}

{View from the Lincoln Memorial, and of the non-reflecting reflecting pool}

{Vietnam Memorial}

{Just two panels of names...hundreds and hundreds and hundreds of names...}

{Korean War Memorial}

{Waiting patiently for the subway}

{Waiting not so patiently for the subway}

{Seriously, not patient at all!}

{Still no train!}

{Tom, Trevor, and Tom's Dad at his great-grandfather's grave in Arlington}

{Eternal Flame and John F. Kennedy and Jacqueline Kennedy's graves}

{View from JFK's gravesite}

{Tomb of the Unknown Soldiers}

The next few pictures are of the presidential motorcade...if you look at the road right in front of the columns you will see it! They had their own armored SWAT vehicle and ambulance!

{Favorite Monument...Iwo Jimo Memorial}

We had such a great time in Washington! Tom and I are already thinking about what we want to do next time!!

Golden Globes Recap

2012-01-17T06:00:00.000-05:00

I am so behind on writing this post, but we didn't get back until late Monday from D.C. {post to come about our trip!}. I did manage to catch almost all of the Golden Globes, after we watched the Giants of course!!

Here are my favorite dresses of the night:

Source: thesun.co.uk via Courtney on Pinterest

Sarah Hyland and Julie Bowen

Source: justjared.buzznet.com via Courtney on Pinterest

Jessica Chastain

Source: justjared.buzznet.com via Courtney on Pinterest

Sofia Vergara

Source: justjared.buzznet.com via Courtney on Pinterest

Debra Messing

Source: justjared.buzznet.com via Courtney on Pinterest

Natalie Portman

Source: justjared.buzznet.com via Courtney on Pinterest

Michelle Williams

Source: justjared.buzznet.com via Courtney on Pinterest

Mila Kunis

Source: justjared.buzznet.com via Courtney on Pinterest

Jessica Alba

Source: justjared.buzznet.com via Courtney on Pinterest

Reese Witherspoon

Source: justjared.buzznet.com via Courtney on Pinterest

Shailene Woodley

Source: justjared.buzznet.com via Courtney on Pinterest

Jenna Dewan

What were your favorites??

Oh, How Pinteresting!

2012-01-11T06:00:00.000-05:00

I'm linking up with Michelle from The Vintage Apple again this week for Oh, How Pinteresting!

{P.S. How cute is her new blog design...love it!!}

The more I that I think about our wedding, the more I think about how my name will be changing in less than six months. Which means, I will have a new monogram. I will go from being CHS {or CSH if the last name is in the middle} to CHW {or CWH}. It's so crazy to think about!!

So, this week, I am featuring all sorts of lovely monograms...

Source: hphotos-sjc1.fbcdn.net via Courtney on Pinterest

Well said, Reese...

Source: hollymathisinteriors.com via Courtney on Pinterest

Source: luxurymonograms.com via Courtney on Pinterest

Source: sweetthoughtsboutique.com via Courtney on Pinterest

Source: southernpropermonograms.com via Courtney on Pinterest

Source: shannonberrey.com via Courtney on Pinterest

Source: thehighheeledhostess.com via Courtney on Pinterest

Source: shoplaroque.com via Courtney on Pinterest

I love the monogram on her dress...so sweet!

Head on over to Michelle's blog and link-up!!

Weekend Recap

2012-01-10T22:46:00.000-05:00

This is definitely a late weekend recap, but I wanted to make sure it made it to the blog!!

Saturday, I had to work. We are open from 9-11 for same day sick, so the administrative assistants rotate which Saturday they work. This Saturday was mine! It really isn't that bad...we get there at about 8:15 and leave around 11 {or whenever the patients all leave...this week it was 12}.

My outfit I wore to work:

{sweater and top: lands end canvas}
{jeans: old navy}
{shoes: tory burch}

I got really excited when I saw the google homepage on Saturday...it's the little things!

I also loved the commercial a few years ago for Dark Chocolate M&Ms...it was the Addams Family and super cute...I'm a sucker for great advertising!

After work, I went straight to Trevor's basketball game {Trevor is Tom's brother for any new followers!}. He played great! I didn't get there until halftime, but I saw him make several points and lots of steals...it was a lot of fun!

Tom and I headed to Panera after the game for a quick lunch and then we were off to Bed, Bath, and Beyond to register! Holy cow, it was a lot of fun! I will do a whole entire post on this later this week...it is too much to put in this post!!

Saturday night, we stayed in and ate spaghetti...great meal!

Sunday, we hung around the house and watched a whole lot of football!! We were cheering on the Giants and the Broncos...both were great games and we had a good day! I made a delicious "chicken chili" as I call it...I will be posting this recipe soon!!

Monday was Tom's mom's birthday. She wanted to go up to the outlets in Williamsburg, and I was more than game!! Unfortunately, the Kate Spade outlet was closed :-( I was really upset about this...I am not even going to lie! I did find a great bag at the Coach outlet that I almost bought, but decided to wait until we can make it back up there to check out the Kate Spade store, since that was really what I wanted!

I did, however, find two dresses that I loved from the White House Black Market Outlet {I didn't even know that they had an outlet store!!}. I reasoned with myself that I could get one to wear to our rehearsal dinner...but then it came down to choosing which one.

These were the two dresses:

{Both look much better in person and not with iPhone quality pictures!!}

After a lot of deliberating and trying them on multiple times, I decided on the black and white dress. I just thought it was more special!! I also found a pair of jeans and a pullover that I can wear this weekend in DC.

Once we got back from the outlets, I set to work making a birthday dinner for Tom's mom. I cooked Italian pork chops, homemade cream corn, mashed potatoes, candied carrots, and a Hershey Bar Pie for dessert! We were all stuffed!!

It was such a busy weekend and this work week is shaping up to be pretty hectic, as well!

In wedding news, I talked with our photographer tonight and secured our date! Yay!! Tom and I are working on settling on a package we want and hopefully will be getting our deposit in the mail this week!!

Thank you all so much for your input on my last post...can you tell that the stress was starting to affect me?! I am feeling much better this week...thanks in large part to you ladies!! Thank you so much for calming me down!! :-)

I hope y'all are having a great week so far!!

Amazing Giveaway

2012-01-10T06:10:00.003-05:00

Hey guys, I have some super posts coming your way this week...

But,

Until then...hop on over to The Vintage Apple and check out her 1000 follower giveaway!!!

It's pretty amazing, if I do say so!

I'm hoping to one day reach 200...I couldn't even imagine 1000!! Yay, Michelle!!

Wedding Planning Help Needed!!

2012-01-06T06:00:00.000-05:00

I am having serious "writer's block" when it comes to planning our wedding! I know that so many of you lovely ladies are newlyweds and I need to wrack your brain, if that's okay!! I have a couple questions that would be great if you could offer some tips for this frazzled bride-to-be...

{one}

Where in the world do you find a dj? The location that we are having the wedding and reception in doesn't have a preferred vender list and I am hitting a brick wall when it comes to finding good providers...is there a super-secret vender website??

{two}

Food...did y'all do a sit-down meal or a buffet? Light hor d'oeuvres or an actual meal? The wedding is going to take place at 4:30ish, so I feel like people may want something a little bit heavier to tide them over, but I have no clue!

{three}

Photographer...do I hire one for all day or just the wedding/reception? Did y'all do an engagement shoot, bridal portraits, and wedding photography??

{four}

Cake and flowers...how far in advance did y'all do consultations for these? Since I am planning this wedding a state away and work full-time, my time back in North Carolina is limited and I need to get as much stuff done as I can in one trip!!

{five}

Alcohol...did y'all have an open bar or cash bar? Did y'all set a limit to the amount of alcohol you would provide??

Okay, I think that's it {for now}! Thank you ladies so, so, so much! All of your weddings have been absolutely beautiful and amazing, and I hope that mine will be just as great!

Makeup Vlog Part Two

2012-01-05T06:00:00.000-05:00

I wanted to update y'all on my daily makeup routine!! I also want to apologize in advance for the awful screeching noise...it is le old laptop! Counting down to getting an iPad!! {Should I wait for the iPad 3 or just get the iPad 2...let me hear your opinions people!!}

Without further ado, part two of the Makeup Vlog...

Winner Winner Chicken Dinner!

2012-01-04T20:51:00.002-05:00

We have a winner folks!!

I numbered the entries 1-4...and entered them on random.org!

Congrats Jenna!!! Email me at courtneysorganizedchaos{at}gmail{dot}com and I'll get you your free software!! :-)

Oh How Pinteresting Wednesday!

2012-01-04T07:10:00.000-05:00

I'm linking up again with Michelle from The Vintage Apple again this week for Oh, How Pinteresting Wednesday!

How about some wedding inspiration pins for this dreary {at least in my neck of the woods} Wednesday?!

Source: bellafigura.com via Courtney on Pinterest

Source: stylemepretty.com via Courtney on Pinterest

Source: etsy.com via Courtney on Pinterest

Source: wishflowers.tumblr.com via Courtney on Pinterest

Head over to The Vintage Apple and link-up!!

Have a great Wednesday!! PS: I will be announcing the winner of the My Memories giveaway tonight...so enter if you haven't yet!!

One Word

2012-01-02T17:22:00.000-05:00

I saw this cute idea for one word that you want to represent the new year over on Magan's blog {A Touch of Class--check it out!!}. Her word for the year of 2012 was "grow" and she explained why the word was fitting for what she wants to accomplish this year. I am going to follow her example and set myself a word to follow for 2012!

My word is going to be PAUSE.

{one}

I need to pause and enjoy where I am right now in my life. I am constantly thinking about the future and trying to get there as fast as I can because I am so excited for what it holds. Tom and I are living rent-free with his parents and I need to pause and enjoy not having to pay bills {besides those stupid student loans}. I need to realize that those "real world" experiences are going to come soon!!

{two}

I need to pause and look forward to planning our wedding. It is so easy to get caught up in the maddness of planning--choosing a venue, making sure everyone that needs to get invited gets invited, making sure the dress fits--that you don't actually enjoy the planning! I really need to focus on getting things together for our big day {less than 6 months now!} but I also need to pause and enjoy this time in our lives!!

{three}

I feel like I take my loved ones for granted at times. We all get super busy and don't always make the time to really "talk" each and every day. Now, don't get me wrong, I talk to my mom and dad everyday, but I feel like sometimes the conversations are just going through the motions. I really want to pause and take the time to know what is going on in my parents and sister's lives and feel like I am a part of it even though I am not living near them. I also need to pause and appreciate my time with Tom. We work all day and by the time we get home we basically just sit beside each other to eat dinner and watch something on television and then it is time for bed. I want us to pause and have real conversations each night!! That is something that is so important in a relationship!

{four}

I want to continue to pause each and every day to continue making new friends, both in real life and in the blog world. I have met so many great women this year, both through my new job as well as through reading y'alls blogs and I want to continue to build relationships with you ladies! I want to pause and continue to put time and effort in to my little blog and build followers and continue to write things that {I think} people like to read about!!

{five}

I want to pause and spend time with Elli! I love my little puppy so much but I feel between work, wedding planning, and spending time with Tom, she sometimes gets left out! I want to be able to take her for walks and enjoy playing with her outside...even if that means I have to wake up at 4:00 AM to fit in that walk!!

{six}

I want to pause and make more time for me. I want to make this the year I get healthy and in shape. I am marrying the man of my dreams in less than six months and I want to look back on our pictures and say "wow, I am so glad that I lost that weight I wanted to" not "gosh, I wish I would've gotten my butt in gear and lost those 20ish pounds...I would've looked so much better!" As my cousin always says "wedding pictures last forever!"

What is your word you want to live by this year?? Happy New Year!

Monday's Style File: Link-Up

2012-01-02T11:54:00.000-05:00

I missed last week for Monday's Style File, but between everyone being off of work/school for Christmas break, I just couldn't get my stuff together! But, I am back this week hosting Monday's Style File!

Monday's Style File is a place to showcase your favorite celebrity styles of the week! You can feature one celebrity or multiple...however you want to do it! I always found myself saving pictures upon pictures of my favorite celebrities' styles--now I just use Pinterest! {check out my Celebrity Style File here}. I always love seeing new outfits to get inspiration in my everyday looks!!

This week, instead of featuring a specific celebrity, I'm going to show off some of my favorite looks that my favorite stars have worn lately. I have featured all of these lovely ladies before and didn't want to re-feature them, so here you go...my top 10 favorite looks {not in any particular order}:

{one}

Mandy Moore

Source: justjared.buzznet.com via Courtney on Pinterest

{two}

Anna Paquin

Source: justjared.buzznet.com via Courtney on Pinterest

{three}

Pippa Middleton

Source: justjared.buzznet.com via Courtney on Pinterest

{four}

Kate Middleton

Source: justjared.buzznet.com via Courtney on Pinterest

{five}

Mandy Moore

Source: justjared.buzznet.com via Courtney on Pinterest

{six}

Natalie Portman

Source: justjared.buzznet.com via Courtney on Pinterest

{seven}

Kate Middleton

Source: justjared.buzznet.com via Courtney on Pinterest

{eight}

Mandy Moore

Source: justjared.buzznet.com via Courtney on Pinterest

{nine}

Natalie Portman

Source: justjared.buzznet.com via Courtney on Pinterest

{ten}

Pippa Middleton

Source: people.com via Courtney on Pinterest

As you can tell, I love classic style--you can never go wrong with it!! To see even more of my celebrity style pins, check out my board on Pinterest!

Now, grab a button, link-up, and show us the celebrity styles you are loving this week!!

**Don't forget to enter the My Memories giveaway...ends tonight!! If you link-up with me, you will get an extra entry!!**

My Memories Giveaway

2012-01-02T10:34:00.000-05:00

Today is the last day to enter the My Memories giveaway!! I will announce the winner tomorrow morning, so make sure you head over to {this} post and enter!!

Plus, I will give an extra entry to every one that links-up for Monday's Style File today!!

Outfit of the Day: December 30, 2011

2011-12-30T10:34:00.001-05:00

{cashmere sweater: grace-Christmas}
{jeans: j.crew}
{shoes: toms-Christmas}

{This is a really bad picture! This shirt is much more flattering than it appears in this picture!!}

Reading List

2011-12-29T19:20:00.000-05:00

I have had this reading list on my sidebar since June, chronicling all of the books that I have read. Since it is almost the start of a new year, I will be starting my list over to keep up with what I read in the year 2012.

However, I do not want to lose track of ALL the books that I have read/will be reading. So, this post will be updated with not only the books that I complete, but also a running list of all of the books that I am currently reading and the ones that I want to read in the future.

I hope that I can keep up with this list and that it doesn't get buried in all of my posts! But, I hate when I go to start reading a book and everything sounds familiar but I can't remember if I have read it or not...does that happen to anyone else??

Reading List {updated 1/22/2012}

1. 10th Anniversary {Completed 6/4}

2. The Help {Completed 6/8}

3. The Secret {Completed 6/21}

4. New Moon {Completed 6/29}

5. Eclipse {Completed 7/9}

6. Breaking Dawn {Completed 7/21}

7. Dead Until Dark {Completed 7/30}

8. Living Dead in Dallas {Completed 8/27}

9. Club Dead {Completed 9/5}

10. Real Murders {Completed 9/11}

11. Strangers {Completed 9/20}

12. Backstage Stuff {Completed 9/24}

13. The Julius House {Completed 9/25}

14. Royal Blood {Completed 9/28}

15. Dead to the World {Completed 10/2}

16. Her Royal Spyness {Completed 10/21}

17. Dead Guys Stuff {Completed 10/23}

18. Dead as a Doornail {Completed 10/30}

19. Definitely Dead {Completed 11/11}

20. Last Scene Alive {Completed 11/21}

21. Royal Flush {Completed 12/2}

22. All Together Dead {Completed 12/7}

23. From Dead to Worse {Completed 12/30}

24. Dead and Gone {Completed 1/5}
25. Gone with the Wind

Any suggestions on good books to add to my list??

**Don't forget to enter my giveaway here**

Outfit of the Day: December 29, 2011

2011-12-29T10:12:00.001-05:00

{sweater: lands end canvas-Christmas}
{top: h&m}
{skirt: lands end canvas-Christmas}
{tights: target}
{shoes: lands end canvas-Christmas}
{necklace: loft}

Outfit of the Day: December 28, 2011

2011-12-28T13:57:00.001-05:00

{pants: dress barn}
{jacket: betsey johnson--Christmas}
{white long sleeve t-shirt: target}
{flats: tory butch--Christmas}

Oh, How Pinteresting Wednesday!

2011-12-28T06:00:00.000-05:00

I'm headed back to work today after a long weekend...seriously, getting up is a struggle after spending a long weekend of relaxation!!

I'm linking up with Michelle from The Vintage Apple again this week for Oh, How Pinteresting Wednesday!! Y'all, Pinterest is the biggest addiction! I spent three hours looking through pins upon pins Monday afternoon...loving.every.minute! Plus, it is giving me so many ideas for our wedding!!

Here are my favorite pins from the week:

Source: simplyme091909.blogspot.com via Courtney on Pinterest

Source: Uploaded by user via Courtney on Pinterest

Source: letsdriftaway.tumblr.com via Courtney on Pinterest

Source: Uploaded by user via Courtney on Pinterest

Source: amonthofsundays.co.uk via Courtney on Pinterest

Source: my-weddingdream.com via Courtney on Pinterest

Source: scrapgoo.blogspot.com via Courtney on Pinterest

Source: justjared.buzznet.com via Courtney on Pinterest

Source: reasonstobreathe.tumblr.com via Courtney on Pinterest

Head on over to Michelle's blog and link-up!!

Work Christmas Potluck

2011-12-27T23:04:00.003-05:00

I completely meant to post this last Thursday, but preparations for Christmas set me back!

My work had their Christmas potluck Thursday. There was so much yummy food! I brought my mom's chocolate chip and pecan cookies to share...they were a hit! {thanks, mom!}

After lunch, we had a "decorate the provider" fashion show! I was teamed up with a lady from the business office and a girl from the reception desk to dress up the doctor I work for. Now, we were a super sedate team. I am not one to go too crazy, even though I am super competitive and love any good craft! Earlier in the week, the person who organized the "fashion show" provided each team with a bag of Christmas decorations {ornaments, bows, tinsel...} to use to decorate the provider and we were instructed that we could use these decorations and then anything we could find in the office.

We had the idea to dress our provider up as a Christmas tree. We instructed him to wear a green shirt and brown pants and we wrapped him in the tinsel and hung snowflakes, ornaments, and tiny stockings that were on our company Christmas tree.

{I blurred out faces to protect the innocent!}

{I do not know why in the world I have such an evil look on my face!}

And...we won!! We were beyond shocked! It was so much fun to see everyone dressed up and it definitely got us in the Christmas spirit!!

Day Off After Christmas

2011-12-27T07:00:00.000-05:00

Since none of us had to work/go to school on Monday, we decided to go to some fun places around the area. Tom and I have been up here in Virginia since June and have yet to really go out and explore our surroundings! We live in a very historic area of Virginia, with Jamestown and Williamsburg just around an hour away. I have done both of those places before, so his family wanted to take us to a historic place that was just a little bit closer to us!

My Outfit of the Day:

{top: target}
{sweater: boutique in my hometown}
{jeans: j.crew}
{shoes: Toms}
{bag: vera bradley in hello dahlia}

My shirt is actually burgundy and my sweater is black, but the flash didn't catch it for some reason!!

Our first stop was the Casemate Museum at Fort Monroe. Fort Monroe recently closed as an actual fort, even though the museum was always open to civilians.

{The actual fort is surrounded by a moat!!}

{To get in to the fort, we had to go through this itty-bitty tunnel...}

{This is how close we were to the walls of the tunnel!}

As a history major I really enjoyed the museum! I am so much more of a "how people lived" history buff, as opposed to military history--this museum offered both so it was perfect for everyone in the family!!

{Trevor was almost big enough to have been a solider in the Civil War. Apparently the average soldier was 5'8" and 140 pounds!}

I love all of these artifacts!!

{We thought this guy looked just like Matthew McConaughey!}

After going to the Casemate Museum, we stopped by the waterfront to take a few pictures...

Once we left Fort Monroe, we headed to the local Naval Base to see the "big boats." I was seriously in shock at how huge this ships are! I mean, seriously y'all, these boats are ginormous!! I took a few pictures of them...

{look at this seagull!!}

We also got to see some submarines!! How cool are these??

When we got back from our day out, we settled in to eat leftovers from Christmas dinner! I am so not a leftover girl, but I am hoping that we kill them off soon so we don't eat them all week!! :-)

Christmas 2011 Recap

2011-12-26T17:57:00.000-05:00

{Both made with the Red Stamp app for the iPhone...this is such a great app!!}

This Christmas was the first Christmas for Tom, Elli, and I to all spend it together! Tom and I have been together for four years {fifth Christmas together} and have had Elli for three Christmases. She spent her first Christmas with me in North Carolina and Christmas last year up here in Virginia with Tom. Needless to say, yesterday was full of making new traditions for both of us!

Sleepyheads on Christmas morning!

I tried to get a family picture before we went downstairs! Someone wasn't cooperating!

We woke up early to see what Santa had brought Trevor {Tom's little brother}. After seeing the Santa presents, we ate coffee cake for breakfast and enjoyed {several} cups of coffee! My Keurig has been on the counter in the kitchen for all six months of us living here and I have FINALLY hooked Tom's mom on it! I think we have had more coffee from the Keurig in the past two days than we have for the past six months!

Waiting for breakfast!!

After breakfast, we gave the puppies their first Christmas present. We recently have discovered that Elli suffers from skin allergies, so we have to watch what kind of treats she gets {no chicken, beef, corn meal...pretty much fish/lamb/sweet potatoes}. Tom's mom was trying to find something to entertain the dogs while we opened presents at Pets Mart and one of the workers suggested she get to extra large Kongs and fill them with treats she can have and then put peanut butter over the opening and freeze them. On Christmas Eve, I put together the Kongs for the dogs--regular treats for Simba and special treats for Elli. They were a huge hit! I got the biggest kick out of watching them try to eat them...since the peanut butter was frozen, it was nearly impossible for them to get to the treats inside without getting through the peanut butter first! Plus, they were eating them on the kitchen floor so every time they would lick at the peanut butter, the Kong would spin. I swear, it doesn't take much to entertain me!

We sat in front of the Christmas tree and opened up presents. I love buying presents for people; when I'm shopping, I have a list of things in my head that I want to buy for everyone. I love buying something for someone that I know they are going to love! I was so excited for everyone to open their presents--some of them I had bought as far back as October and I have been trying so hard to keep them secrets! I have the WORST at keeping presents as secrets--I just get too excited!!

Trevor had been asking and asking for a headset for his PS3--well, Tom and I got it for him for Christmas! Now we don't have to listen to all of his games anymore...just him talking! I think it might have been his favorite present...he kind of looks like he is about to land a plan or coach a football game!

Of course, Elli was adorned with a pretty bow {thanks Betsy for putting such beautiful bows on all of our presents...I had to choose the perfect one for her collar!}. Elli was definitely spoiled for Christmas! Not only did she get a new Kong, she also got a giant rawhide {not on her new special food diet, but it's Christmas!} and so many toys! And, they were not just from Tom and me! His parents/brother got her so many new toys! I am a little nervous for what happens in the future when there are grandkids in the picture--we're going to have to rent a UHAUL!

{Simba looked pretty handsome!!}

{Elli loves her rawhide!!}

Mom got Tom and myself Christmas pajamas this year. She has gotten her, my sister, and I matching pajamas to open on Christmas Eve for as long as I can remember and this year Tom got a pair, too! Of course, his were boyish though!

{Tom's are camouflage with toy soldiers on them}

{Mine are pink paisley! Please excuse the wet hair and no makeup! (I think Elli likes to make it in every picture I'm in!!)}

It was definitely hard not being home for Christmas. But, modern technology made it much easier! I got to talk to my family and I also skyped with my sister, Dad, Betsy, M, Poppop, Joni, and her kids, which was really fun!

I also got to help cook Christmas dinner. I made garlic mashed potatoes, green rice, and an apple pie for dessert! I did not take a picture of the potatoes, but I did manage to snap one of the green rice and apple pie! Everything turned out so yummy!!

Green Rice

Apple Pie

We finished the night by watching some episodes of Modern Family and turning in early. We were all so exhausted from the days activities!

I hope that everyone had a wonderful Christmas, filled with good food and family fun!

**Don't forget to enter the My Memories giveaway! It was originally scheduled to end tonight, but no one has entered so I'm going to extend it a few more days! So y'all enter...pretty good odds right now!!**

Outfit of the Day: December 24, 2011

2011-12-26T17:08:00.001-05:00

Again, behind on my OOTD posts! This is what I wore to work Saturday morning...we got to dress down since it was Christmas Eve. And of course, Miss Elli had to be in the pictures!!

{t-shirt: target}
{scarf: old navy--Christmas gift from the nurse I work with!}
{jeans: j. crew}
{shoes: Toms--Christmas}
{earrings: towne and reese--Christmas}

Such a sweet little girl! I hope y'all had a great Christmas!

Don't forget to enter the My Memories giveaway here!

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-25T07:00:00.000-05:00

My Memories Review and Giveaway

2011-12-23T21:49:00.002-05:00

My Memories contacted me about doing a review of their digital scrapbooking software and I couldn't have been more excited!

If you have read my blog for awhile, you may know that I love taking pictures! Unfortunately, I do not have the time to print out the pictures and put together a scrapbook. The great thing about the My Memories software is that you can digitally assemble your scrapbooks. The software is super easy to get the hang of. Another great thing is there are so many great add-ons that you can purchase through My Memories, so that you can make each page different from the previous!

You can make calendar pages:

A photo collage:

A Christmas greeting:

I beyond love this digital scrapbooking software! I can definitely see me using this very often.

And here is the bonus for my readers: My Memories wants to give one reader their own copy of this software!!

Here are the rules:

1. You must be a follower of my blog. Comment on this post that you are a follower and also visit the My Memories website and let me know your favorite digital paper pack or layout {1 entry}

2. For an extra entry, follow me on Twitter {comment to let me know--1 entry}

3. For another entry, follow My Memories on Twitter {comment to let me know--1 entry}

**I have extended my giveaway to run through Sunday, January 1, 2012 and will announce a winner on Monday!!**

My Memories also wants to give my followers a $10 coupon to purchase the software! The coupon code is STMMMS70299. Trust me y'all, this is a great program!!

**For this giveaway, My Memories gave me a copy of this software to try out and review. These are my honest opinions after working with this software.**

Outfit of the Day: December 21, 2011

2011-12-23T09:18:00.001-05:00

I am so behind posting this picture!! Wednesday and Thursday got away from me!!

{pants: dress barn}
{top: stein mart}
{royal blue satin shoes: lands end canvas--Christmas}

Oh, How Pinteresting!

2011-12-21T06:00:00.000-05:00

I'm linking up with Michelle from The Vintage Apple again this week for Oh, How Pinteresting!

This week, I'm featuring a hodge-podge of my week in Pinterestland!

Source: pinterest.com via Courtney on Pinterest

Friends is the best. Ever.

Source: stylemepretty.com via Courtney on Pinterest

I love this save the date idea...which coincidentally is our wedding date, too!

Source: polyvore.com via Courtney on Pinterest

Love this outfit! Perfect for cooler weather...if we ever get any!

Source: bananarepublic.gap.com via Courtney on Pinterest

I adore everything about this outfit...the wide leg jeans, striped t-shirt, and cable knit sweater are totally up my alley!!

Source: people.com via Courtney on Pinterest

Oh my goodness, could this outfit be any cuter?? I am loving Pippa {and Kate, duh} Middleton's looks, but I am especially loving this red jacket!!

Source: sweetlifealacarte.com via Courtney on Pinterest

I am dying over these hot pink gloves!! They are too fun!

Go link-up with Michelle and show us what you've been pinning!!

Outfit of the Day: December 20, 2011

2011-12-20T21:02:00.002-05:00

I had such a hard time picking out what to wear to work today! I got so many great clothes for Christmas that I had to really work hard to figure out what I would wear to work today. I chose my gray skirt {I also got the same skirt in black}, my pink cardigan {I got it in hunter green and mint green, too}, and my new Tory Burch flats {totally worth my five year wait!}.

{sweater: lands end canvas--Christmas}
{tank top: h&m}
{skirt: lands end canvas--Christmas}
{tights: target}
{shoes: tory burch--Christmas}

Weekend Recap: Christmas at Home

2011-12-20T07:00:00.000-05:00

This past weekend was a complete blur! Tom and I headed to North Carolina when I got off of work on Friday and came back to Virginia Sunday afternoon. Talk about a quick trip! I am so glad that we were able to make it back home though; I have to work Christmas Eve, so I won't be able to go back to visit my family for Christmas.

Fortunately, my family made sure that I had a great "Christmas" with them! I mean, they went way over and beyond what I ever expected! I was completely and totally overwhelmed the entire weekend!

I was a terrible, terrible blogger; I took hardly any pictures! I know, I even promised to post lots of pictures! I did manage to snag a few pictures from Sunday, though.

We got to North Carolina around 10:30 Friday night. The drive was okay, just really long and we ran in to some rain on the trip down, which made the drive seem even longer. Mom made us some yummy homemade popcorn when we got there and we watched five episodes of Modern Family while we waited for my sister to come home from a Christmas party.

Saturday morning, Mom made us a yummy breakfast and then we all headed out to Winston to Dewey's Bakery to pick up some Christmas gifts for my co-workers. When we got back home, Mattie and I headed up town to pick up a last minute gift for my mom {nothing like waiting until the last minute, huh?}. The rest of the day Saturday was spent preparing dinner for that night. My mom invited my grandparents and her sister's family over for dinner to have a mini-Christmas for me. We had Lemon Chicken, garlic mashed potatoes, and spinach for dinner. For dessert, we had my favorite: Banana Pudding Pie! I am kicking myself for taking no pictures! My mom had a total "Martha Stewart moment" in how she decorated for the night...but take my word for it: it was CUTE! After everyone left, we finished the disk of Modern Family--my mom really liked that show and I might have convinced her to start recording it!! Mom gave Tom and I are Christmas pajamas {each year on Christmas Eve, mom gives Mattie and me pajamas to wear that night; this year Tom was included, too--his aren't matching Mom, Mattie, and mine--his are boyish, don't worry!}. I will definitely post a picture of these soon!

Sunday morning, we did our Christmas with my mom. We enjoyed a cup of Gingerbread coffee {Green Mountain Coffee K-cups...very good!} and opened our stockings and gifts. It was a great morning!

Later Sunday morning, Mattie, Tom, and I headed over to my dad's parents' house for "Christmas." They prepared an absolutely delicious brunch spread, complete with my absolute favorite thing--Cucumber Sandwiches! Y'all have no idea how excited I was to see those finger sandwiches!! :-) M even made Cider with Mulled Spices...so yummy! We spent the morning opening presents, eating yummy food, and visiting.

After spending a few hours visiting with Dad, Betsy, M and Poppop, Tom, Mattie, and I headed back to Mom's house to pack up and head back to Virginia. We made it out of town by 3:00 and back to Virginia just before 8:00. To say we were tired is an understatement!!

Here are the few pictures that I took this weekend {all iPhone pictures, sorry!}:

M and Poppop's Snow Village

If this were a real house, I would move right in! :-)

Santas

Cute Mattie

Mom's Christmas Tree

I am telling y'all, I had such a great weekend with my family! It was definitely a whirlwind of a trip, but I am so happy that I made it home! I don't know how in the world I am going to thank everyone as much as they deserve for all the nice presents that they gave me for Christmas. Seriously y'all, I must have been very, very good this year because I am so overwhelmed with how many nice things I received for Christmas. I will make sure to point out in my OOTD posts which items were Christmas gifts and maybe do a post after Christmas of the non-clothing items!

This weekend also showed that I wouldn't trade my time with my family for anything; sleep included! This weekend really showed me how truly blessed and loved I am...I have a feeling that on the actual day of Christmas I am going to be extremely homesick and wishing my family was up here with me!

Just a sidenote--I have an amazing My Memories giveaway coming your way {hopefully} on Thursday! So, get ready!! :-)

Monday's Style File: Ashley Greene

2011-12-19T12:10:00.001-05:00

Sorry, sorry this link-up is going up so late! We got back from North Carolina so late last night that I ended up sleeping in a bit this morning!

What's Monday's Style File, you might ask...well, it's a weekly link-up to showcase your favorite celebrity styles of the week! You can show off a specific celeb's style or just your favorite styles of the week! Anything will work!!

This week I'm featuring Ashley Greene!

I love her style! It is just so carefree...plus she always throws in some glitter!! I think that her look is totally attainable, which is something that can be said for all celebrity styles!

Here are just a few of my favorites...

Source: justjared.buzznet.com via Courtney on Pinterest

To see even more of my Celebrity Style File pins, check out my board on Pinterest!

Now, grab a button, link-up, and show us your favorite celebrity styles from the week!!

Christmas Card

2011-12-16T07:00:00.000-05:00

I think everyone has received our Christmas card in the mail, so it is safe for me to share it with y'all!

We ended up using two of the pictures that Trevor took of us on Thanksgiving...I am really happy with how they turned out this year!

{Front}

{Back}

Merry Christmas! We are heading to North Carolina for the weekend to celebrate the holidays with my family. I will be back with a weekend update; hopefully with lots of pictures on Monday!!

Water for Elephants

2011-12-15T07:00:00.000-05:00

{Source}

I have had Water for Elephants sitting on my dresser for over a week from Netflix, waiting to watch it. Tom and I just could never find the time to watch it.

Monday I finally sat down and watched it while I was cleaning up the mess that is my room.

I loved it! It was definitely tough to watch {I don't like animal violence at all--or people violence}, but it was so beautiful. And, it has a happy ending! I had totally prepared myself for a sad ending; I don't think I could have dealt with a sad ending!

Have any of y'all read the book? Is it good?? Did y'all see the movie--what did you think??

Trevor's Birthday

2011-12-14T12:00:00.000-05:00

Sunday was Tom's brother Trevor's birthday! He turned 15!

Back in July for my birthday, Trevor wanted to do something sweet for me so he and Tom stayed up late and decorated the downstairs for me. See more about that here.

I wanted to do something just as sweet for Trevor, so we sent him to bed early and told him he was not to leave his room until one of us came and got him.

I made a banner to hang on the mantle, Tom and I had gotten him balloons the day before and hidden them, and we hung streamers in front of his door so that he could make his grand entrance.

Knuckle head Trevor knocked on Tom's door at 7:00 in the morning with a pillow case on his head because he had to use the bathroom but didn't want to see anything that we had done for him. Seriously, he is the most funny kid!

Here are some pictures of the decorations and of the birthday boy!

We celebrated by going to The Cheesecake Factory for dinner. Oh my gosh, it was so yummy! But, boy do they serve you GIANT portions! I had left over salad {which, might I add, was by far the most delicious salad I have ever had!} AND left over cheesecake for lunch Monday. So so good!

Happy Birthday, Trevor!!