Sizzlin Savage's

Oh Boy!

2012-01-27T12:09:00.000-06:00

So what happens when I am cleaning house and for 1 minute I leave the room AND I apprantly left with the trashcan lid open?????
THIS................
Don't ask me how (it must of been a team effort) but my already portly weenie Oscar managed to get my old entirely WHOLE french baguette out of the trash and dig in........

When I tried to take it away he went insane, chewing it as if his life depends on this bread that is the same size as he his. I have Gladiator on the TV in the back ground so maybe he saw them throw bread to the commoners at the arena and he wanted to fit in??? Either way, he has left a big mess and any bets on how long until he pukes? I give it 20 minutes! SUPER!

It is always interesting at Casa de Savage
(which is still for sale by the way, and I just might clean up the mess if you buy it)

Whats cooking......

2012-01-27T08:05:00.000-06:00

Good Looking??? I feel like lately every time I made a great meal I never have the pictures from it to show you all. But all my great meals lately have ONE thing in common.................. Picky Palate! If you have not visited this blog then you are missing out!!!! And lucky us......a cookbook is in the works!
Here are just a few of the recipes I have made and loved lately...........

Crockpot green chili chicken!!!!!

Mexican Pasta...yum!

To visit Picky Palate click HERE! I hope you will enjoy this blog as much as I do!!!!!!!

What I am loving Wednesday....

2012-01-25T08:52:00.000-06:00

I call this What I am Loving Wednesday, my Mini-Style edition!!!!! Some of these I have found online and/or on Pinterest (where else?) Lets jump in..........

* Nails!!!!!!!!!!
I have been really into my nails lately! I always have and will paint my own nails but lately I have loved branching out and trying something new!!! Below are some cool colors and ideas I LOVE and want to try!

* I am loving the following outfits and they are very "me" which is ......simple and classic ( I would like to think that is me) !!!!!!! The first 2 pictures are from Piperlime and the last outfit is a Pin!!! And yes, we all know I LOVE stripes!

* And finally, this "you card" below is and will always be ME!!!!!!!!!! And I can't be the only one who does this!

What are you loving today???

SALE!!!

2012-01-24T08:20:00.000-06:00

I am cleaning out some of my Scentsy Stock and you will get the benefits!!!!! I am selling everything below for ONLY $20! If you live in Okc I will meet you or if you live out of state I will ship them to you but with the paypal fee and shipping I will add $8 onto the price for each! (which is still cheaper than full price)
If you want one leave me a comment and tell me which one or email me at nsavage@live.com

1. Boho Chic $20

2. Dotty $20

3. English Ivy $20

4. Lenny the Lamb $20

5. Marine $20

6. Milano $20

7. Morocco $20

7. Penny the Pig $20

8. Roma $20

9. Welcome $20 ( I have 3 of these)

10. OU $20

To visit my Scentsy site click HERE!

Casa de Savage is for sale!

2012-01-23T11:34:00.000-06:00

It is true our first home is for sale!!! It is bittersweet, this has been our home for the last 5 1/2 years and we have put countless hours into upgrading our home!!! I just hope I can find someone how will love it like we have! It is in the Moore School system ( we are directly next to Eastlake elementary)!!! Our edition is Eastlake!
I am selling by owner so I figure my email, blog and facebook will be my best marketing tools! We have spent the last 2 weeks making sure everything is clean and ready to sell!!! SO if you know a friend of a friend of a friend who is in the market please feel free to pass this information on! Want to set up a time to view? Use the info on my internet site to contact me!

To view our listing click HERE!!!!!

Here is the link if you want to copy and paste: http://www.forsalebyowner.com/listing/80B4A

Thanks friends......lets sell this home!

Collector or Hoarder?

2012-01-21T15:06:00.000-06:00

Everyday when I walk by my "collection" I think .....I have gotta do a post about this and today I finally have! I am a collector......a collector of jewelry ( I think I get this from my Oma). I will start by saying that other than my wedding rings and a set of pearls that is all the "real" jewelry I own but that doesn't mean my items are any less special!
What are my current favorite brands?
Stella & Dot, Express, Vera Wang for Kohl's and JCrew (on sale of course) and I store them grouped by type and occasion.....

I have pieces that I can remember buying over 10 years ago and I can tell you what I wore it with or why I bought it. And about 50% of my collection has never been worn.....I "collect" it for that one special day when I might wear it!

I have this over the door shoe rack packed with over 200 pieces of jewelry....you will find $75 pieces mixed in with my clearance $2 find! This is only my bracelets and a portion of my longer necklaces! Yes, you heard me right only bracelets!

I don't have everything stored in anything fancy just things that work for me......here are all my earrings that I keep in a 3 tier clear drawer...they are grouped starting from the top by Gold, Silver and Misc.
I have my favorites.........

I have taken Matt's old "Mens Valet" that he never used and I have found that it is the perfect way for me to display everything so that I find what I need. In the leopard box I keep my sentimental pieces and the wooden box you will find my costume rings that I hardly wear!

On the part of the valet meant to hang each days outfit I have taken over to hang my necklaces....it is perfect! There are vintage finds, JCrew splurges and pieces I just haven't found the perfect outfit for yet....yet!

I will say I get 90% of my stuff on sale which makes me happy and helps me to justify my expanding collection to Matt! So what do you collect?
I would love to someday add something real to my collection (hint hint Matt)!!! We shall see! Until then.......if you need something you know where to find me! LOL

Bleep

2012-01-19T08:09:00.002-06:00

Ok, I am warning you there are some F-Bombs in this video but please watch it until the end......this is hysterical!!!!!!!!! This literally made my morning.......

Hi Friends!

2012-01-18T12:18:00.001-06:00

I am sorry I have been so quite and boring lately but oddly enough I have a lot going on and my blogging seems to be taking a back seat to life. I have so much just piling up in a mental stack called "things to blog about" so hopefully soon I will be back on track!
So don't leave me friends I wont be this boring forever.
Happy Wednesday

Hello........

2012-01-17T15:01:00.002-06:00

Hello by Lionel Richie by Movies = AMAZING!

Hello from ant1mat3rie on Vimeo.

Truth

2012-01-17T11:59:00.000-06:00

Found this and wanted to share.........

Truths For Mature Humans
1. I think part of a best friend’s job should be to immediately clear your computer history if you die.

2. Nothing sucks more than that moment during an argument when you realize you’re wrong.

3. I totally take back all those times I didn’t want to nap when I was younger.

4. There is great need for a sarcasm font.

5. How the hell are you supposed to fold a fitted sheet?

6. Was learning cursive really necessary?

7. Map Quest really needs to start their directions on # 5. I’m pretty sure I know how to get out of my neighborhood.

8. Obituaries would be a lot more interesting if they told you how the person died.

9. I can’t remember the last time I wasn’t at least kind of tired.

10. Bad decisions make good stories.

11. You never know when it will strike, but there comes a moment at work when you know that you just aren’t going to do anything productive for the rest of the day.

12. Can we all just agree to ignore whatever comes after Blue Ray? I don’t want to have to restart my collection…again.

13. I’m always slightly terrified when I exit out of Word and it asks me if I want to save any changes to my ten-page technical report that I swear I did not make any changes to.

14. “Do not machine wash or tumble dry” means I will never wash this – ever.

15. I hate when I just miss a call by the last ring (Hello? Hello? **** it!), but when I immediately call back, it rings nine times and goes to voice mail. What did you do after I didn’t answer? Drop the phone and run away?

16. I hate leaving my house confident and looking good and then not seeing anyone of importance the entire day. What a waste.

17. I keep some people’s phone numbers in my phone just so I know not to answer when they call.

18. I think the freezer deserves a light as well.

19. I disagree with Kay Jewelers. I would bet on any given Friday or Saturday night more kisses begin with Miller Lite than Kay.

20. I wish Google Maps had an “Avoid Ghetto” routing option.

21. Sometimes, I’ll watch a movie that I watched when I was younger and suddenly realize I had no idea what the heck was going on when I first saw it.

22. I would rather try to carry 10 over-loaded plastic bags in each hand than take 2 trips to bring my groceries in.

23. The only time I look forward to a red light is when I’m trying to finish a text.

24. I have a hard time deciphering the fine line between boredom and hunger.

25. How many times is it appropriate to say “What?” before you just nod and smile because you still didn’t hear or understand a word they said?

26. I love the sense of camaraderie when an entire line of cars team up to prevent a jerk from cutting in at the front. Stay strong, brothers and sisters!

27. Shirts get dirty. Underwear gets dirty. Pants? Pants never get dirty, and you can wear them forever.

28. Is it just me or do high school kids get dumber & dumber every year?

29. There’s no worse feeling than that millisecond you’re sure you are going to die after leaning your chair back a little too far.

30. As a driver I hate pedestrians, and as a pedestrian I hate drivers, but no matter what the mode of transportation, I always hate bicyclists.

31. Sometimes I’ll look down at my watch 3 consecutive times and still not know what time it is.

32. Even under ideal conditions people have trouble locating their car keys in a pocket, finding their cell phone, and Pinning the Tail on the Donkey – but I’d bet my *** everyone can find and push the snooze button from 3 feet away, in about 1.7 seconds, eyes closed, first time, every time!

Happy Tuesday Friends!

My Picks......

2012-01-16T15:33:00.000-06:00

I am now going to show you my favorites and least favorites from last nights Golden Globes (which were actually very boring).....because I know you are dying to know how I feel about everyone!! So wait no more my friends............. HAHA!

Let's start with the bad..........

To me it looks like Natalie Portman is going to prom in an ill-fitting off the rack dress. Such a shame!

OK, I know.......you can leave me hate mail but really? He looks rough and old with that hair EVEN if it is for a movie he can wash it!!!! And she looks so stiff it is as if they are manaquins. I am not into this AT ALL.............I get it, your hot, you don't even have to try.......blah blah blah

I LOVE her, loved her in The Help but she needed someone to help her by letting her know this was TOO tight! If this was taken out a tad with a glamourous hair style them A+ but sadly this was not!

And my worst........Lea Michelle, I mean could she be anymore into herself? I think she looks like a 50 year old drag queen version of herself. Yuck!

Now switching gears................Our other Miss Glee looks amazing! I think this dress is STUNNING with all caps and her face well is always beautiful! Well done! (insert golf clap)

Emma stone! I LOVED this........it is the perfect combination of effortless and sexy! And the colors were too die for! I want this dress! BAD

I mean just look at her make-up.....this is just stunning! Loves it! She is really so pretty!

And I have NO idea why everyone is hating on this look..........she looks like a beautiful classy lady! I loved this dress and the color.....I actually love everything about this picture!

Lastly I am SHOCKED to be saying this..........this is the BEST Nicole Kidman has looked in years! She usually looks like a HOT mess but with this Versace combined with her hair it is perfection! Best dressed for me! She looks like Barbie!

So who did you like? Do you agree? And who else wishes Ricky Gervais was meaner? No?

Are you kidding me?

2012-01-16T14:46:00.000-06:00

Ok, so I am so blind....without contacts or glasses I can barely see about 1 foot in front of me. And the past few years I do not have eye insurance and without it is entirely too expensive. My glasses are so old I only wear them at night and I am down to my LAST pair of contacts....you know the kind you are suppose to wear for 2 weeks but I wear for 4-5! (bad, I know) well I called to order more (I will have eye insurance in about 2 months) and they REFUSE to give me more contacts and they also refuse to let my order go thru at 1-800-Contacts without coming in to pay a FULL price visit. This is INSANE! I mean really? Am I suppose to go blind for the next 2 months? I have no idea what to do I swear if I had the balls I need to go like picket or something!
I am peeved off!

A second try......

2012-01-13T08:42:00.000-06:00

Mikael Blomkvist, crusading journalist and publisher of the magazine Millennium, has decided to run a story that will expose an extensive sex trafficking operation between Eastern Europe and Sweden, implicating well-known and highly placed members of Swedish society, business, and government.

But he has no idea just how explosive the story will be until, on the eve of publication, the two investigating reporters are murdered. And even more shocking for Blomkvist: the fingerprints found on the murder weapon belong to Lisbeth Salander—the troubled, wise-beyond-her-years genius hacker who came to his aid in The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, and who now becomes the focus and fierce heart of The Girl Who Played with Fire.

As Blomkvist, alone in his belief in Salander’s innocence, plunges into an investigation of the slayings, Salander herself is drawn into a murderous hunt in which she is the prey, and which compels her to revisit her dark past in an effort to settle with it once and for all.

OK, if you remember my review of the Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (HERE) then you know I was not a huge fan. But after seeing the movie a few weeks ago I felt like the movie version really tied up everything in a tidy bow for me........it made sense and more importantly it made me finally excited to read the sequels! So I just finished "Fire" and I have started "Hornets Nest" last night! I really really enjoyed The Girl Who Played with Fire....it kept me reading as fast as I could because I just had to find out what was going to happen next. The only downside is that there is like 30 characters ALL with similar names, I swear I needed a list to keep them all straight. But I really enjoyed this book and it was so much better than the first, the twists keep on coming until the end. Just so you know if you read this one .....make sure you already have book 3 waiting!
TGIF!!!!!

Little bit of this....little bit of that!

2012-01-12T08:46:00.000-06:00

Have you ever seen anything so cute?? This was yesterday and Abner was snuggling on the couch and his little tootsies were hanging out! I love his little white fluff! I could just eat him up!

Second.........GOOD NEWS! My Stella & Dot consultant friend Kaylyn said that when anyone orders from my party she will pick 1 person to win a FREE piece! How exciting! To be reminded of how to order see the post below!

What I am loving Wednesday....

2012-01-11T13:48:00.000-06:00

OK, I know I know a little semi-self-promotion here but I thought that I would show you today the items I am coveting from Stella and Dot's new collection and WHY I am hosting an online party for my friend Kaylyn so I can earn a few of these....................
It's ok to fall in love.........

I need these green earring.....are they not just so pretty and so Kyle Richards from Beverly Hills Housewives (if ya know what I mean)

Love this silver bracelet and it this one is SOO inexpensive! Now I would love the whole collection she has on her wrist, but then again I want a lot of things! ha

And the blue drops....I just love the Navy drops.....so classic!

So want to buy to help me earn credit? HAHAHA....here is how........

How do you buy? Here is the website http://www.stelladot.com/sites/kaylynflesher

Or click HERE

Then when you check out you will see "Were you invited to a Trunk Show?" and you will need to select me as hostess (Nicole Savage) !!!! And then your new jewelry will be shipped to your home!!

Online Party.....

2012-01-10T08:19:00.000-06:00

So.............. After having a combined party with my friend Kaylyn for Scentsy and then Stella and Dot....I have become obsessed with Stella and Dot! They just debuted their new Spring line and I NEED so much! So whats the answer??? I am having an online party!!!! YAY! This will be open for 2 weeks and trust me you will LOVE this stuff and there are stuff for every price range!

How do you buy? Here is the website http://www.stelladot.com/sites/kaylynflesher

Or click HERE

Then when you check out you will see "Were you invited to a Trunk Show?" and you will need to select me as hostess (Nicole Savage) !!!! And then your new jewelry will be shipped to your home!!

Thanks guys, let me know if you have ANY questions! Now buy buy buy! hahaha

Thanks Urban Dictionary

2012-01-09T14:57:00.000-06:00

So I saw some of this going around Facebook and I had to do it.....you just go to Urban Dictionary and type in your first name and I have to say......geez, guys....how flattering! hahahaa!!!!
Here is what came up to define my name..........

Nicole per Urban Dictionary
1. awesome person that is often imitated but never duplicated.

"Nicole is so godly that I adore her."

2. Slang term for a very amazing, attractive individual.
"Damn your so hot, you're so Nicole!"

3. A Nicole is someone who is omnipotent. A Nicole is gorgeous, intelligent, mysterious, witty, hilarious, out-going, creative and seductive, yet she is also tough, street-smart, experienced, brave, enduring, and mainly a wonderful mother. Nothing and nobody can compare to a Nicole in any aspect.
"Why vote for either Presidential candidate, when there is a Nicole out there much more suitable for the position?"

Please, if you need a laugh type in your name!!!!!!!!

Monday Motivation......

2012-01-09T08:25:00.000-06:00

Since this is our first full week back to work with all 5 work days since the Holidays I thought we all could use a little Monday Motivation! Here are some things I found (on Pinterest, of course) and loved......I hope you enjoy! Happy Monday......

Some Sunday Snuggles....

2012-01-08T11:24:00.001-06:00

This is a little somethin somethin I came across today and had to share...........awe!!!!!! How I can get me a baby kitten and a baby deer?
Animals constantly amaze me............

Celebrity Chef

2012-01-06T08:49:00.000-06:00

You all have requested in the past that I share with you things I am doing before hand so you can come......well this morning I got my mom and I's tickets to this years annual St Anthony's Celebrity Chef demonstration! In the past we have seen and met Giada, Sandra Lee and Curtis Stone.....this year is is Robert Irvine! I am so excited!
Below is all the info.....leave me a comment if you going so I can look for you!!!!

Timing can be everything… especially when you’re in the kitchen. Chefs spend their time racing the clock to make a tasty dish for guests. Saints Heart & Vascular Institute is excited to present the 11th Annual Celebrity Chef event. This year Saints is taking the seemingly impossible… and making it possible with Celebrity Chef Robert Irvine.

Chef Irvine will showcase his more than 25 years of culinary perfection. Irvine has cooked his way through Europe, the Far East, the Caribbean and the Americas, in hotels and on the high seas. He brings his experience from Food Network as host of Dinner: Impossible, Worst Cooks in America, Restaurant: Impossible and was most recently seen on The Next Iron Chef, Super Chef.

With a mission this important, we want to give you plenty of chances to meet Chef Irvine and learn his secrets to a successful mission of healthy eating.

Cooking Demonstration/Dinner – $20 Ticketed Event
Tuesday, Jan. 17
7:00 pm
Rapp Foundation Conference Center
St. Anthony Hospital
535 N.W. 9th Street, 4th Floor
Limited seating; reservations required. Complimentary valet parking.
Call (405) 272-7383 or click here to reserve.

Bring Back My Bar...

2012-01-06T08:06:00.001-06:00

It is here!!! This month only Scentsy has brought back some of our customers favorite scents that you can purchase in January ONLY!! I get so excited, I just love to load up on all these scents!!!! Below is the list of Scents but you can easily view these on my site, order and they will arrive at your front door in less than 10 days! click HERE to view!!!

Also this month is the perfect month to host an online party because you will earn double rewards! All you need to do is leave me a comment with your email and I will contact you and set up an online party link.....you will then email your friends and family thats it! 2 weeks later I will tally up what all you have earned in FREE Scentsy! It is THAT EASY!

THEIsT: An A-to-Z of AVAilAble Fragrances

TGIF!!!!!!!!!

New Year, New You?

2012-01-05T08:24:00.000-06:00

Ok, here is the typical New Years Resolution Post all us bloggers do! I am not a big resolution person you might remember I had 2 last year "1. Not suck at my job & 2. Not get any fatter" and both of those are up for debate! LOL! Matt on the other hand is a huge resolution person and he encouraged me to make some this year. So......I thought I would share a few of them with you.............

In no particular order..........

* Read 30 books this year

* Say no, not do so much this year. I have a habit of filling my life with SO much and doing So much!! I think I am filling my life with things to make it better but is it really better just because I am busy??

* Eat vegetarian 4 nights a week.

* Start small......start walking and try to work up from there. I would love to loose 15 pounds.

* Continue to grow my Scentsy business

* Be on top of all my animals health, shots, pills.....etc!

* With my husband working ALL the time it's hard but I want to continue working hard on marriage to ensure that we do not grow into separate lives. (He works everyday 8am-9pm and every other Saturday)

So what are your resolutions? Do you follow thru? I am going to try very hard to follow thru and heres to hoping the world doesn't end this year!

Little silly for ya....

2012-01-04T13:39:00.000-06:00

What I am Loving Wednesday....

2012-01-04T08:31:00.000-06:00

Hi guys!!! Can we start with something I am not loving? I am not loving that the Holidays are over and there are no days off work in the near future! Isn't it always a bummer/let down after the Holidays? Oh well........what am I loving this week?
* I LOVE the Thunder Game Opening!! Keep in mind this picture is taken from my camera so the quality is uber bad.......but I LOVE the high energy when the guys come out!! Weird, it looks like we are so far away but our seats are lower level, very close!

Last night we played Portland and sadly we lost but that doesn't mean we didn't have a great time!!! I went with my Mom, Dad and my brothers GF Jordan! We had a blast!

Last night the color guard was from the Marines which was so nice to see considering my brother the marine is currently on deployment! Semper Fi

Our guys tried their best but sometimes that is not enough.........next time I say! Thunder Up!

* I am LOVING the interview Ryan Murphy gave to Entertainment Weekly about Season 2 of American Horror Story! I literally can NOT wait!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! To read the interview click HERE!

* Monday night I made a super yummy dinner! This was something I pinned on Pinterest but it wasn't actually a recipe (just a picture) so you kind of hand to put the pieces together!!! So here ya go.....

Marinate your chicken in a mixture of EVOO, S&P and Balsamic Vinegar.

Then I baked mine on 350' for 25minutes. (you can grill it also)

Then top the chicken with a HUGE slice of Mozzarella, Basil then some roasted red peppers. (From the jar)

Put it back in the oven for 10minutes to melt and heat, drizzle with Balsamic and enjoy!

*Scentsy Eucalyptus Bar

Get this.......my friend was very sick and she mentioned to me that by burning this bar it 100% had a medicinal quality that cleared up her congestion and had her back on the mend faster!!! I am stocking up on these since this bar is back THIS MONTH ONLY! What a wonderful idea! To buy one click HERE!

What are you loving today?????????

uh????

2012-01-02T11:39:00.002-06:00

Uh....so this is Kim K ringing in the New Year...... what happened to her face???????? I am just saying!

I KNow I KNow!!!!

2011-12-30T07:44:00.000-06:00

Before I leave for blogging hiatus I had to share this with you.....our Thunder is so amazing and not only is KD the best player out there he is an amazing role model! I truly love love love this team!
Watch this.......we are down by one with 1.4 seconds left on the clock!

Cheers!

2011-12-30T07:31:00.000-06:00

Well friends the blogging world seems to be on hiatus and I am going to join them! I hope you have a happy and safe weekend filled with good food and family! I will be back in 2012!!!!!
Happy New Year Friends!

Christmas Cheer!

2011-12-29T08:06:00.000-06:00

Sunday night after Christmas at my parents house Matt and I, Marissa and my cousin AKA the Birthday Girl got to go cheer on the Thunder at the Season opener! Thunder Up!

We were all very excited and thankful that my parents decided to stay home and give the 4 of us their season tickets for the night!

There is nothing like a Thunder Pre-Game and then while we wait for players come out Okc fans go crazy! This video captures our tradition of clapping, cheering and not taking a seat until we make our first basket it So fun! Now this video is awful quality but this is the arena waiting for the game opening jump ball......

Our boys came back.....better, stronger, faster and ready to go ALL the way! Thunder UP!

Awe.....I LOVED Santa Rumble! The people in the seats behind us said "look its the bull" No friends.......he is a BISON! hehehe

Marissa and Brittany fueling up on popcorn to give them energy to cheer on our team!

Most games Matt is at work so it is just me going to the games with my family, so it is always nice when Matt gets to come along!!!!

Yo.....KD! I just LOVE Kevin Durant!! On Christmas Eve he drove around (he drives a mini van and that is not a joke) he drove around OKC tweeting his location and when people found him he gave out his signature gold #35 Nikes in gold that he is wearing in this game. He is such a nice person!

And boy I LOVED the girls in their cute Santa outfits they looked so pretty! Now as for their dance? Not so much but they are so fun to look at!!!

We WON! Which was the perfect day to end Christmas!

Movie Mania!!!

2011-12-28T07:31:00.000-06:00

Are you ready for this???? I watched a few, just a few movies this weekend. I wanted to share my thoughts about them with you.....maybe you care/maybe you don't! LOL!! I have these listed in order of worst to best. So let's start.............

Abduction with Taylor Lautner!
Ok, I remember wanting to see this in the theater and I was excited to finally be able to rent this movie....and well, the excitement stopped there. Here is all you need to know about this boring movie....
Taylor Lautner can do a roundhouse kick, he takes his shirt off, he can punch, he can jump high, he makes out on a train. There is something having to do with a phone and "secret numbers" but you are never told anything else. I have no idea what this movie was about and my review is.......wait until it airs on like TBS in 5 years.....you are missing NOTHING!

Rise of Planet of the Apes
So I was very nervous to rent this movie and that is why I didn't see it in the theater.....why? I know these animals are all CG but regardless I do not like ANY mistreatment of animals in movies. And I will say this is a good movie, a good concept but if you have a tender heart like me then this is SUCH a Debbie Downer of a movie. Really, I thought it was so depressing. Long story short these animals are mistreated.....they get mad and smart....then fight back. Very sad all around! Moving on...................

We Bought a Zoo!
Let me start by saying man o man I WISH I could buy a Zoo!!!! This movie is PG but it was SOO much more than a kid movie watching this family restore a zoo. This movie had heart, soul, humor and was utterly cute! Matt Damon's character lost his wife, he moves his kids to get a new start ..hence the house with a zoo. Watching him struggle to let go of his wife, move on and help his kids heal is herartbreaking. But this was the perfect day after Christmas movie! You really should go and see this! SOOO cute!

Here is the perfectly cute trailer...........

And finally.......we made it to my #1 pick: The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo

While I talk about this I wanted to share the "warning" for this movie with you so you can keep this in mind, if you ran out to see it based on me saying so and you were not prepared for a few of the scenes then you will be shocked! So please read this.........................

Warning: “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo” (2011) is not for kids or the faint of heart, its rated R – what I like to call a “hard R” because of things that make it borderline NC-17. The MPAA lists the reason for GWTDT’s “R” as: “brutal violent content including rape, sexual assault and torture, strong sexuality, graphic nudity, and language”.

Now, with that out of the way this movie was amazing. Amazing because the story was told so well, nothing out of the book was missed and in fact for me this cleared up so much....the book is SO in depth I found myself getting lost and seeing this come to life on the screen actually makes me want to pick up and read the sequel. This was amazing because of these two people below..........they were perfection. I could NOT believe how much this beautiful Rooney Mara became Lisbeth Slander, it was incredible. I mean this movie is one of those movies where the backdrop, the acting and even the transformation and look of the actors is truly a work of art. Two scenes I was worried about were very hard to watch on screen and Matt was a little shocked..........The director does not shy away either, you see everything and for maybe longer than makes you feel comfortable. Ha, it is so weird after saying that to say how great this movie is.....it has stuck with me, here 4 days later and I can't get it out of my head. If you have seen this or will go see it....let me know, I want to hear what you thought!!!!!

Here is the trailer.....the song is perfection for this dark movie....................

SANTA!

2011-12-27T10:54:00.000-06:00

Are you ready for picture overload???? I can not believe that Christmas has already came and went this year! For me, it never even felt like Christmas....it was weird this year! Matt and I went back and forth between our two families this weekend and we had a wonderful time! But do you feel like you need a Holiday from your Holiday????
Pile of presents at my parents..............who wants to dive in?

Betsy has decided that she is in love with Matt.....can I blame her? My parents dog never left Matts side and he gave her all sorts of extra attention! She was over the moon, she is chewing on a Santa that Matt and I got her for Christmas!

My mom has opened one of the presents from Matt and I ......a new JCrew necklace! I love their jewelry, everyone should have at least something from there! She already wore the necklace on Monday!

Marissa and her "stash"...she opened up a Durant Thunder Jersey and a bracelet set from JCrew in Thunder colors from Matt and I!!!

Oh ya.....this is happening.....they are giving each other "goggly eyes"! And they call it.....puppy love!!

Matty and I heading out the door on our way to Edmond to celebrate Christmas Eve with his family..........in case you were wondering the "Cranberry Salsa" I posted last week that I was making for Matt's family get together.....was amazing!!!!!!

And boom......here we are about to open presents with his family after church!

Here is all the Savage ladies..............my sister-in-laws Jenn, Colby(the bride to be) and my mother-in-law Micki!

Present time!!! Some things we got (from both families) I got a new JCrew Jacket, Old Navy Jacket, Matt got a nice Norelco shaver, Apple I-TV, Gift certificates, $$, kitchen stuff.....etc! It was great but like I always say....I love giving more than receiving!

Fast Forward to Christmas day at my parents house........this is my cousin Brittany and my sis! Merry Christmas! We are just missing one person my brother who is somewhere on deployment! He sure was missed!

A typical picture for Matt and I.............. cheese! You can never have too many, can you? And ya, do you like the pictures behind us? That blonde......is ME! that is my Sr. Picture! lol!

Sisters, Sisters............. I love that song from White Christmas!

Betsy chewing on another one of her Christmas presents! This is her very first Christmas, we are so lucky to have her!

Marissa made this handmade frame for Brittany as her Christmas gift........very thoughtful! It is a picture of all of us from last years Christmas!

Cheese.............Matt hates being the center of attention! LOL

I got a mini cupcake maker and Red Velvet mix! You know I love anything kitchen related!!!! Yumm!

And Christmas is also another special day in our family...........Happy Birthday Brittany!!!! #22!!!!!!

Hope your Christmas was as wonderful as ours was! The only negative? I had a migraine every single day....and I woke up with one today too. I sure hope I can kick this awful cycle soon....I would love to enjoy this coming 4 day weekend more so than this last (health wise)!!!

6 Years.....

2011-12-25T08:29:00.000-06:00

I hope you all are having a WONDERFUL Christmas Day filled with Cheer! I also hope you ALL know how much I appreciate my bloggy friends! Your comments make me so happy and I never could of thought how much happiness this blog would bring to me and how many friends I would make!

Today is not only Christmas Day but 6 years ago TODAY was our FIRST date! After spending the day with our families, I asked Matt out on our first date! And here we are 6 years later......I am so glad I mustered up the courage to ask Matt out (since he was too chicken to do the same)!! I love you Matt and I am looking forward to many many more years.......our future is bright!

Christmas Cheer.....

2011-12-23T08:25:00.000-06:00

This year I have been lazy and after our family pictures did not work out for me to make and send Christmas cards I didn't feel like sending them. So here it is my friends! Our E-Christmas Card!!!

We wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and a even happier New Year! I hope your weekend is filled with Cheer, Loved ones, Laughter and relaxation!

Love, Matt and Nicole Savage

Family Photos.....

2011-12-22T08:05:00.000-06:00

So back in October I mentioned having family pictures taken, my mom wanted us all together before Curtis deployed. Well I will say Rachelle James takes beautiful pictures, they turned out 100% amazing! You can visit her website by clicking HERE!
Now onto the bad.........these "previews" below were just posted on FB yesterday by Rachelle for us to see and this my friends is all I will see of them. I was not even able to buy 1 picture not even a 5x7 because she is so expensive. It is heartbreaking and not her fault, ours. I will not even be able to use these pictures on a Christmas card or even on my blog! (other than this initial post which I may be in trouble for) What she charges for "digital use" for ONE picture I could buy 1/2 of my Christmas presents again. Why did we use her? Well my mom had a friend in Sunday School use her and their pictures were amazing so we jumped on the bandwagon. Rachelle was so nice and they turned out stunning.....I just can't afford anything!
Here is the "preview"............

And my favorite.....I am able to use this on my facebook with her watermark, thank goodness.....but I love this picture! Wish I could use it more, this was going to be our Christmas card picture but we can't afford it!

Just wanted to share my family with you all!

What I'm Loving Wednesday....

2011-12-21T08:31:00.000-06:00

HI friends.........Happy Wednesday before Christmas!!! Can not believe the big Holiday weekend is literally 1 day away! (Fri-Mon)!!!!

* I am loving my Christmas present to myself.........my new JCrew Italian ballet flats! love em...the design is so stylish!

* I am in charge of appetizers for Saturday nights Christmas Eve at my In-Laws and I thought I would share what I am bringing! The first is from the Pioneer Woman and it is goat cheese rolled in fresh dill or paprika served with Wheat Thins! I am going to actually combine both into one! (I tried it, it's good)

Second I am going to make this Cranberry Salsa that is served over cream cheese! Yumm and they both use Wheat Thins which makes it easy!! To see the recipe click HERE!

* I am loving this Blue blazer from Piper Lime! I swear Piper Lime is like porn for fashion! Love it.....just wish I could afford things on that site! I imagine this blazer with my new JCrew shoes.....I can dream!

* I am loving the 2 Christmas presents Matt gave me yesterday (besides the IPad 2).......I got the new Giada De Laurentiis complete Knife set! I bought one of her knifes a while back and loved it, so I am excited to get the set!

And a major surprise to me is this watch!!! The Coach Gold Boyfriend Watch!!! I had no idea and I did not give him any hint at all....this was all on him! I love it! So excited to wear it, just need to get 1 link taken out!

* I am loving my two Pinterest finds that are new to my "Wise Words" boards..................

Both are so true.......

* I love love love these necklaces! The only hard part is deciding on the script and color! Which is your fav? I was thinking about doing NSM (Nicole Savage Matt) combining our initials instead of my initials which are NAS? Thoughts? You can get your own by clicking HERE!

* Ok do this for me....... Google "Moore Warren Balcony" and then click on images and see what comes up!!! I did this today while looking for pictures to use on blog posts and then saw that a picture of me and my friend Becky comes up as one of the first pictures and I about died! HAHA.....I guess I post about the Warren so much that my blog is one of the first search items! hahaha.....how silly!

What are you loving today?

So grateful.....

2011-12-20T09:21:00.001-06:00

It's Christmas time....in the city....

2011-12-20T08:40:00.000-06:00

I thought I would share some of our Christmas happenings with you all! Saturday night we had Matt's work Christmas dinner and on our way home we drove thru the Chesapeake lights! If you don't live in Oklahoma this is a HUGE oil and gas company who go ALL out for Christmas! This year they were stunning multi-colored...........

If you notice behind us some trees are white and others have colors.....well, the trees changed colors!! I know, it literally boggled my mind it was so neat! You and your family should go to see the lights!

My great friend Becky dropped off goodies while we were out on Saturday......such a nice surprise to come home to cookies and Holiday mix.......until........

Sunday night I moved her beautiful box to the fireplace so I would have more counter space, I should of known better!!! When we got home from the movies we found the wrapper that contained no bake cookies in them all across the living room.........

And then we found Oscar under the tree pounding cookies! So....I guess they were good because Oscar was not about to give that cookie up! They ate every last bite! We watched the dogs like a hawk that night since they consumed so much chocolate! They were fine.....thank goodness! It is always something at my house! ha....Notice his shifty side eyes.......his warning! ha

Sunday night I also had my family over for dinner to celebrate my Mom's Birthday! Here is my table for the "adults" ....Matt, my sister and I have to eat at a card table in the living room! HAHA! I made....... Mushroom soup, Stuffed pork tenderloin, cauliflower gratin, truffle mash potatoes and a lemon curd cake! Everyone loved it.........I love making others happy with food!

Here are Mom's presents under the tree....... we got her the new Coach perfume, a JCrew necklace and some odds and ends from Sur La Table!

She loved everything.............

So this morning at 7am Matt took a page out of my book and made me open my Christmas present and I got a IPad 2! I am excited to play around on it! Thanks love

I know this is not an awesome video but this is the courtyard at Chesapeake and the lights dance to music! If you live in Okc you must check this out....don't miss out!

Well 2 more work days after today! YIPPEE!!!!

Movie Mania...

2011-12-19T11:42:00.000-06:00

We saw 2 movies this weekend...last night we saw the Sherlock Holmes for my Mom's Birthday and my family really enjoyed this movie. Me? I will say the way the movie is shot is very cool but for me this is a renter. I don't know.....I didn't think it was funny or even very complex. Dude wants to ruin the world with weapons Holmes adverts this.? Nothing new, but to each their own! And the whole time I kept looking at Jude Law's head trying to figure out his hair piece! Because in real life is is lacking hair.

Matt and I saw the new Mission Impossible friday night in the balcony and this was WAY more my style. I loved it.....this had action, humor, amazing cast and the setting was stunning! I really loved this movie! The only thing I can say about this movie is Tom Cruise's height kept changing! HA

SO we all know I LOVE movies and I LOVE the previews before the movies....in fact I will NOT go to a movie if I am going to miss the previews. I love them because it shows me what I have to look forward to but really because I love the trailers themselves. I love to spot and dissect the trailers that are better than the others.......Do they give you the jest? Do they get you excited? And the music is SO important, it can hype you up and/or give you the over all feel of that movie. I truly think this would be my dream job and I would be good at it (making trailers). I am sure there have been SO many trailers I have recently loved but here are a few on my mind....you may not like these or think I am silly but maybe I am!

I love love love this trailer because......... I love the cut aways, the high action clips and the music 100% makes this trailer and gets me all hyped up! This is perfection........

I love/hate this trailer......Why? This one trailer with hardly no words gets you in the heart with music......this 2 minutes and 30seconds literally makes me cry. This trailer packs so much emotion, I have never seen a trailer like this before. Am I going to see it? I don't think I can, if I cry and get filled with so much emotion just watching this trailer I don't think I can make it thru the movie. This is epic.....

This trailer debuted this weekend and true the movie may not be that great, ending of the trailer is silly and sadly it looks like the kill off my dear Channing Tatum BUT the music is why I like this trailer.....this music gets you excited...no?

OK, there are more that I love but this could go on for days! Maybe in another life I will make trailers!

Men Gift Ideas!

2011-12-19T08:34:00.000-06:00

First off, Warning....there may be several posts coming today! I have a lot to share! First off....Matt's Christmas, I know I know....I just can't wait! I am going to show you what all I got Matt and maybe if you need a last minute gift you will find something you like!!!!
Matt and Abner snuggling "Pre-Gifts"............

First off I got Matt a 5 pound Cherry Gummy bear! No joke, he loved it! What a silly and fun gift! Talk about Gummy Tummy if you ate the whole thing in one day! I would be so sick!

He dove right in and demolished a ear!!! LOL! You can get this for your man or kiddos at Red Envelope by clicking HERE!

Next Matt got a ton of new shirts from Old Navy and a nice scarf to go with his suits for work! Old Navy fits Matt so well, I just love that store!!!

I saw this gift idea in a magazine and they were right, Matt loved it! It is a book about the Science of sports! Like why does a curve ball curve? What goes into a 3 pointer? This would be a great gift for any man in your life who likes sports as much as my hubby does! I got this at Spoon Sisters and you can order yours HERE!

I am silly, I told Matt....lets open 1 of your presents and when I see how much fun that is.....I push them all onto him! And he didn't resist! HA

This was one of his BIG gifts! I know what your thinking....what? That bottle opener cost what? But a gift is something unique that the recipient doesn't need but never knew they wanted! This is a bottle opener made from an actual bat used by the St. Louis Cardinals in a MLB game! It even comes with an authenticity certificate!!!! I got this at Uncommon Goods and you can get yours HERE

His last gift was his other BIG gift and this one is SOO neat....this gift is SO neat it is completely sold out at Red Envelope! I ordered this about 2 months ago and then a few weeks ago this was featured in the Today show so hence the sold-out-ness! These aviators are ACTUAL aviators worn by a fighter pilot in WWII!!! They have been "re-claimed" and then sold to people like me! They also come with a certificate of authenticity and the story behind them! The leather sunglass case comes with your initials embossed onto them! Matt loved them, they not only look so good on him but they are so cool! You can see them HERE

Our sweet Ralphie had to get in the mix to see what all the mess was about! He is laying next to his new Christmas toy which he later destroyed!

Matt will still have his stocking on Christmas Day with some fun little gifts inside but he is DONE! And lucky me, he loved everything! Let me know if you use any of my ideas!

Food for Thought?!

2011-12-16T09:22:00.000-06:00

So one of the many magazines I get each month is Self and they had an interesting article last month that I decided to chit chat about! It is called "FOMO" = Fear Of Missing Out! They state that this is 100% brought on by social media ( I agree)...

“On the rare night that you’re grateful for a quiet evening in, you see a Facebook photo of your pals partying (no one invited you!) or a friend’s check-in at a cool new bar and you’re bummed…”

- Self (the mag, not me)

They also go on to talk about how the majority of people only present the "glossy" "upbeat" version of themselves online which leads us to feel like we don't measure up......and how that leads to us being unsatisfied with our own lives from time to time?! I completely agree with the article BUT I think that on FB and your blog you can talk about what you are thankful for and how great your life as I do too from tim to time! But when that is all we hear and see you have to wonder.....I know I know who wants to announce the bad? I see both sides but how many times have you logged into Facebook and seen someone for the millionth time talk about how they are the "luckiest person in the whole wide world, God could not have made their life more perfect, they are so blessed, their kids and husband are truly perfect........." and that goes on and on! And I am sorry but I don't buy it (most of the time)! I personally truly try to be real with this blog I don't mind talking about the great, the good, the bad and the sad! I try to be relatable (try?)!! I try because I know that this bugs me and I don't want others to feel the same way about me.

What are your thoughts on this article? Is this stupid? True? Do you disagree? Do you have "FOMO"?

Canine Christmas

2011-12-16T07:49:00.000-06:00

USS Makin Island

2011-12-15T14:19:00.000-06:00

It has almost been a month but it feels like so much longer has already passed since my brother was deployed! Something to love about current technology is that the USS Makin Island has an actual facebook page for friends and family to keep up with their loved ones. The troops can not access the internet but somehow we are getting to see wonderful images that are posted daily. Where are they? Even if I knew I wouldn't tell you...............And we all image that somewhere in each photo we can see Curtis!

Sailors and Marines muster during a abandon ship drill on the flight deck aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Makin Island

The above picture is during a weapons training drill on the carrier!

Below is an actual picture of the Red Dragons which is my brothers Marine squadron............

Just a little update from somewhere in the middle of the ocean! My thoughts and prayers are with all our troops and their families during this Holiday season! God Bless!

Thankful Thursday

2011-12-15T08:57:00.000-06:00

* I am thankful for friends and family who know and understand everything I have going on in my life currently! They are the best!

* I am thankful that this Sunday I am hosting my annual Birthday dinner for my mom! I don't feel like I have been in the kitchen much or done anything to celebrate the Holidays at my home and this will be just what I need......now, what to fix? yikes!

* I am thankful that while watching TV last night I came across White Christmas on AMC. This movie is a classic Christmas movie and boy how I love it so! This movie reminds me of my grandparents and when I was little watching this movie at their house while I spent the night! **Warm Fuzzies**

* I am thankful that I just clicked "check out" and ordered my LAST Christmas gift!!!! It was for my grandparents who are SO hard to buy for! But done, done and done!

* I am thankful for my animals, I love them so much and wouldn't know what to do without them! Their snuggles are the best!

What are you thankful for today?

What I am Loving Wednesday....

2011-12-14T08:32:00.000-06:00

Did you miss me for a few days? Well, I am alive and I thought what a better day to get back on the blogging wagon then What I am Loving Wednesday!!!!!!!!!!

* Presents!
I am loving wrapping all our Christmas presents!!!! I make each one special and I don't mind the time it takes at all!! Sadly though, they can not be under our tree this year......one of my dogs (ahem, Oscar) has decided that the area under the tree only belongs to him and nothing else! So all my pretty presents are stacked on the bed in our guest room......I occasionally walk in and enjoy the Christmas spirit, someone has too!

* American Horror Story.......
Tonight is the night if you are a fan.................. drum roll please.............. THE BIRTH! I expect it to be gory and creep and I can not wait! I swear if you don't watch this show you must think I am crazy but if you watch it then you know how addicting this show is! I LOVE it!

* Holy Crap.......
Did anyone watch the Boardwalk Empire finale????? I mean wow, I loved it.........I was shocked, sad and it left me on the edge of my seat for season 3! (Sneaky Margaret) Which....thanks to HBO the next season will be in a YEAR! ha! I will miss you Nucky!

* Thunder Up!
I am LOVING that I will be spending my Christmas Day cheering on the Thunder at the NBA Season opener! It will be such a FUN way to spend Christmas.......can not wait!

* Lisa See
I am on a "Lisa See" kick after reading her books Shanghai Girls and Dreams of Joy ....I moved right on to Snow Flower and the Secret Fan and lucky me......this one already has a movie out!!!!! I am loving that when I finish this book I will be able to immediately rent this movie and watch my book come to life! Here is the trailer......enjoy!

What are you loving today????

Book Club Christmas Party

2011-12-10T10:44:00.000-06:00

Last night was my book club Christmas party and like I knew I would.....I had the best time! Here is my group (minus a few) I love these ladies, each of us has something different to bring to the group and that is what makes our group special....... and of course we bond over our love for reading!

Becky hosted our party and she had everything set up so pretty, like a Christmas wonderland!! We each brought a dessert and I think we all left with a sugar high!

Becky made two drinks one being a Wassail (?spelling) I love warm holiday drinks.....it really felt like Christmas is finally here which is a nice feeling!

Our friend Crystal brought these cupcakes from Gigi's......aren't they too pretty to eat? She spoiled us!

Here is Becky and me....funny thing I gave her that scarf she has on last night as her Christmas gift and it happened to match the shirt she already had on perfect! Great minds think alike.........

Before we did "Book Dirty Santa" and dove into the dessert at Becky's we went to go eat at Seven47 in their private room which was fun! Lindsay and I shared a few things and I am pretty sure we didn't leave one bite behind! But it's the Holidays that is perfectly fine!

Last night was a great night and today is Saturday! YAY! I hope everyone has a wonderful weekend! See ya on the flip side!

Amazing Reads......

2011-12-09T08:24:00.000-06:00

So I am weird with my books......there could be a book I really want to read but I might not be in the "mood" or I go off in another book direction for awhile. But, I always come back when the time is right to read that book that was recommended to me and in this case most of my book club stands behind these two books.
Both of these books are historical fiction, Lisa See did painstaking research of China, Chinese culture and particularly life for Chinese women in 1930s and decades after. These are two books that I feel like I not only loved but I was immersed in the culture where I learned SO much. I LOVED loved loved these two books and I will say it.....(drumroll)...... these are the best books I have read ALL year. I was transported to a land far away in another time and I was invested in these characters...all of them. One book is not better then the other, the sequel is just as good if not better then the first. I HIGHLY recommend these books and if you are looking for a Christmas gift for a reader then these two are the way to go!
Below is the "jest" of each book......and if you do read these please let me know what you think....

In 1937 Shanghai—the Paris of Asia—twenty-one-year-old Pearl Chin and her younger sister, May, are having the time of their lives. Both are beautiful, modern, and carefree—until the day their father tells them that he has gambled away their wealth. To repay his debts, he must sell the girls as wives to suitors who have traveled from Los Angeles to find Chinese brides. As Japanese bombs fall on their beloved city, Pearl and May set out on the journey of a lifetime, from the Chinese countryside to the shores of America. Though inseparable best friends, the sisters also harbor petty jealousies and rivalries. Along the way they make terrible sacrifices, face impossible choices, and confront a devastating, life-changing secret, but through it all the two heroines of this astounding new novel hold fast to who they are—Shanghai girls.

In her most powerful novel yet, acclaimed author Lisa See returns to the story of sisters Pearl and May fromShanghai Girls, and Pearl’s strong-willed nineteen-year-old daughter, Joy. Reeling from newly uncovered family secrets, Joy runs away to Shanghai in early 1957 to find her birth father—the artist Z.G. Li, with whom both May and Pearl were once in love. Dazzled by him, and blinded by idealism and defiance, Joy throws herself into the New Society of Red China, heedless of the dangers in the Communist regime. Devastated by Joy’s flight and terrified for her safety, Pearl is determined to save her daughter, no matter the personal cost. From the crowded city to remote villages, Pearl confronts old demons and almost insurmountable challenges as she follows Joy, hoping for reconciliation. Yet even as Joy’s and Pearl’s separate journeys converge, one of the most tragic episodes in China’s history threatens their very lives.
I gave these books a real squeeze when I was done because I loved them and it was hard to say goodbye. I hope you enjoy them as much as I did.

I Heart KD & OKC

2011-12-08T10:01:00.002-06:00

KD + Nike + OKC = Love.........

Thankful Thursday

2011-12-08T08:23:00.000-06:00

Hey Bloggy friends! It is Thursday which means we are thisclose to the weekend and I am thankful for a quick week! I am also thankful for a few more things today.........

* I am thankful that my cat Isabella loves Christmas so much that she is spending more time downstairs with us under the tree! When she was a baby she would climb this tree and snuggle on the "branches"! I think Christmas and this tree makes her feel young again! I just love her so much and when all my animals are in ONE room with me.....it fills my heart with warm fuzzies! (ps....she never takes great pictures but trust me she is so beautiful)

* I am super Thankful that tomorrow night is my book club Christmas party, I have been looking forward to it all week! And don't you just have a pep in your step when you have something to look forward to?? We do a book version of Dirty Santa and then do our usual book club chit chat.....and I am reading like a mad fool to finish my current book before tomorrow night! I am very thankful for each and everyone of these ladies!

* I am thankful that Matt and I are going to hit the road and we will be out of town for a couple days (Sunday-Tuesday)! I think when you go somewhere new during the Holidays you are getting to see that city at its best! I am thankful for a mini-break-ish during this hectic season!

* And lastly please feel free to be jealous because I have every single Christmas gift bought.....including my mother and cousins Holiday Birthday gifts! It feels so good.....and I found some amazing deals and some perfect gifts for everyone! Yay Me!

What are you Thankful for today???????

What I am Loving Wednesday....

2011-12-07T08:25:00.000-06:00

What am I loving today? I am loving the documentary I watched last night on the OWN Network called One Lucky Elephant! Here is the jest................

When Flora the elephant loses her zest for performing, circus producer, David Balding, goes on a journey of mammoth proportions to find her a new home, revealing the unintended consequences of raising a wild animal in captivity.

This documentary is touching and eye opening........this man whom Flora was raised by treated her so well and loved Flora like a daughter but even with all the love and care in the world what happens when an elephant is raised alone? Once again like all other animal documentaries this one show how smart elephants are and what truly amazing creatures they are. If this replays on OWN then you should watch this documentary and learn about the amazing sanctuary that Flora will live out her days at.

Here is the film trailer...............

To learn more about Flora, what you can do to help or how to view this documentary click HERE!

Photo Dump...

2011-12-06T12:23:00.000-06:00

SO I am thinking maybe this 3rd post of the day when added to the others will actually together make 1 post that is a step above boring! HA! But I thought I would share with you what I have been up to....
Last Tuesday me and my friend Kaylyn hosted a combined Scentsy/Willow House/ Stella & Dot party at the JH office! And I had a great time, I am easy to please........
Here is the set up......

My scents for everyone to test out and smell! We had about 10 people show up, we ate, drank and did some shopping!

Here is part of Kaylyn's Stella & Dot set up....I could play with this stuff all night! I love their stuff! To shop on her site click HERE!

Last May-July Scentsy ran a promotion and if you met certain criteria each month you were given these HUGE limited edition Scentsy warmers....and I got all 3! They finally came last week and I was shocked they are HUGE and beautiful! Go me!

Last week I also had my one and only "show" of the year at a retirement center! Don't laugh......it only cost me $20 to have a table and that rocks because that means after I make $20 everything there after is a bonus!! Here is my set up, all the stuff is what I "Acquire" thru out the year!

My mom was my helper and don't worry she didn't leave empty handed she got a bar, warmer and car candle out of this deal! These are some of the warmers I still have at home for anyone to purchase that I mentioned earlier!

Then......last Thursday was my JH Christmas party and I was excited that Matt was able to get off of work to come with me! Here we are on our way out the door.........

Here are some of my favorite gals.......Kaylyn, Margo and Becky! And don't you just Love Becky's hair? I Love love her hair!

Matty and I were first in line for food (shocker).....the party was at Northpark mall at Rococo's! The food was great and the company was perfect!

Becky, me and my dear friend Allison who recently announced she is pregnant....have you ever seen a more beautiful pregnant person? She radiates with happiness and I am so happy for them! Congrats to Al and Mike!

We just brought one gift as a couple and we went home with a shoe kit kit (yay-NOT)! What did we bring???? A 5lb Gummy Bear from Red Envelope! I am not kidding either, I thought it rocked!

I love this picture....Becky got this hand towel in Dirty Santa and might I add that no one in her family plays or watches football! LOL! (Sorry if you are reading this and that was what your brought, lol)

Whew! Yes, that was a busy week!!! Things only get busier as Christmas approaches huh?

It's a soup kinda day....

2011-12-06T11:55:00.000-06:00

So please ignore my picture, I made a mess of the bowl but it isn't the bowl that counts but whats in it! AND...I just has the BEST leftover lunch perfect for a brisk day in Okc with a current temp of 26'!!! I hate it when tomato soup tastes like marinara, if I wanted spaghetti sauce then that is what I would eat! Do you feel me?? But thankfully I have found the best and easiest soup recipe ever!
You MUST try it tonight!!!!! And you can cut the recipe in 1/2, add more of this, less of that....make it your own!

Fire Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

1 onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, chopped fine

olive oil

4 cans of fire roasted tomatoes

1 large can crushed tomatoes

1 tablespoon dried basil

½ teaspoon thyme

2 tablespoon brown sugar

1 teaspoon pepper

salt to taste

2 cups heavy whipping cream

Parmesan cheese

fresh basil

In a 2 quart stockpot over medium heat, cook onion and garlic in olive oil until onion is soft. Be careful not to burn the garlic! Add in the fire roasted tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, basil, thyme, salt, pepper and brown sugar.

Using a blender or immersion blender, puree soup until smooth; return to pan if using blender. Whisk in heavy whipping cream. Heat through being very careful not to boil the soup. Boiling will cause milk to separate and make for a lumpy soup.

Serve warm and garnish with freshly grated Parmesan and fresh basil.

Serves: 6

YUMMY!!!!!

Last Minute Gift?

2011-12-06T08:52:00.000-06:00

Do you need a last minute gift? Well I have over 20 Scentsy warmers in stock and about 30 Scentsy bars as well. I have Full size warmers, mid size and plug-ins all in stock in my garage (including the one above) all you need to do is contact me and I would love to meet you or have you swing by! Bonus? No tax or shipping! East peasy! I know at the Holidays you always need a last minute gift and I would love to help you out!
Leave me a comment or email me at nsavage@live.com

EXHAUSTED!

2011-12-05T09:08:00.000-06:00

Hi friends! Last week/weekend I had 2 Scentsy parties, 1 Scentsy all day show, work, Christmas party, Christmas shopping and work! I am so tired! Do you ever feel like you fill your life with so many things that are suppose to "enhance" your life but all it does it fill your life? I sometimes feel that way! I feel like I do so much and can't say no........ but all that happens is that I just get too busy with life to enjoy it! I am behind on catching up with friends, returning calls, Scentsy thank you cards and a million other things! Its crazy!
I just wanted to say hello and I hope you all have a wonderful monday!!!! I gotta start checking things off my to-do list!

We are taking orders......(Updated)

2011-12-01T08:01:00.001-06:00

So I told Matt about all your kind comments and he said "Shoot, I would love to paint more"!! This coming Sunday I have a Scentsy Party all afternoon so he said that would be the perfect time to paint all day.
We saw the original painting on sale for $195 so this is a HUGE deal!!!!! Matt said with the cost of paint, canvas and his time he would sell his for $60 and they would make excellent gifts! That price includes the 3 hours it takes him to make it, the $10 to ship and the supplies! The canvas is 18 x 24 !!! You will have your own Santa Canvas by next Friday December 9!!
How to order?
1. Leave me a comment with your email address and how many you would like
2. I will then send you a paypal invoice via email
3. When you pay via paypal Matt will paint and I will ship by Monday!

*** If you live in OKC I will deliver and you will only pay $50 since there is no shipping fee!
**** If you can't leave a comment email me at nsavage@live.com

Thanks Friends!

What I am Loving Wednesday....

2011-11-30T10:19:00.000-06:00

It is Wednesday......I can't believe that one of my busiest weeks is 1/2 way over! I have 1 Scentsy party down, 1 to go, 1 Scentsy Holiday show to work and a Christmas party (whew)! I woke up this morning and realized my house is a wreck so I am going to have to squeeze in some cleaning! But enough of that because I am loving some fun and random stuff this week............

Here are my 2 favorite Black Friday commercials, they crack me up!!!! Did you have favorites?

* I LOVE this funny little "card" this is me on some days.............isn't it all of us from time to time?

* I am SOO glad that the NBA is finalizing their "deal" and the season is set to start on Christmas Day! I have missed my Thunder boys.....I was getting scared that I was going to have to get into college basketball (yuck)! LOL

* I can NOT believe that tomorrow is December 1 and Christmas is literally RIGHT around the corner! After having a bit of a panic attack since I have no presents bought and I don't even a list started.....I calmed down and I have started buying presents! Happy Holidays friends!

* Victoria's Secret Fashion Show

Every year I LOVE this show and funny thing is all my girlfriends are the ones who watch this...not their hubbies! These girls are just stunning, I hope that in my next life I come back as an Angel!

What are you loving today?????

HO HO HO

2011-11-29T07:58:00.000-06:00

On Saturday morning before I got extremely sick Matt and I were out and about and I saw something I loved. At a decor store there was this painting on canvas of Santa and get this......they were selling it for $195. Yikes and no way! Matt said to me "I can do this" which I believed but even I didn't know the extent of his talent or his determination.
While I was sick on the couch Saturday afternoon Matt left to run an errand and he came back with a canvas, paint, brushes and pencils.............he then spent the next 3 hours doing this........You like our "make shift" easel?

Matt started by sketching the Santa ALL free hand! I knew that Matt was talented, in the past he even sketched one of his tattoos.

After the sketch was thru he started with the paint and I was starting to be amazed............

And here you go, can you BELIEVE that Matt did this all by himself, no pattern>??? Matt's talents continue to amaze me, and this blew me away.........I mean this looks professional to me!

We hung his new painting in our kitchen for the Holidays and when he was done all he said was "that was fun"! It is funny how it seems that an artist is trapped inside his former college baseball player and current Insurance man body!

I would say that this painting is worth way more than the $195 we originally saw it for because this was made with love!

Black Friday Shopping

2011-11-28T08:08:00.000-06:00

So guys....did you do any Black Friday Holiday Shopping? Matt and I had no plans to do any shopping but then again you never know what can happen! Let me tell you a story about my Trailblazer........

I had my Trailblazer for 9 YEARS! I have never had anything that long, I have had a longer relationship with this SUV than I currently have with Matt (6 years)! 9 years ago I was leaving Bricktown (our entertainment district) late one night when as soon as I merged onto the highway to head home and I was hit by a drunk driver who then fled the scene! My little chevy car was totaled and I found myself in the ER. After that my grandparents helped me get a new car, my Trailblazer! I LOVED this car..........But Friday I said goodbye! Here I am cleaning out my baby and saying goodbye........

Saying goodbye was hard I am not going to lie but it was out with the OLD and in with the BRAND new................

I got a brand new 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee Overland Summit! I never thought I would be a Jeep gal but after seeing the new commercial for this limited edition model Matt and I went in to test drive and we fell in love! I love that it is a luxury SUV but it is sporty and American made!

Look at this sunroof! One of my favorite things about this SUV, it covers the front and backseat! SO cool!! I will say this SUV has some serious power......my new engine is a Hemi! Watch out! lol

I fell in love with the interior, the seats are Overland Napa Saddle leather!! I was so excited to get Navigation and everything on my wish list! Something cool......my steering wheel heats up! I know, right?

Here is mine!!! Compared to my Trailblazer this is space age to me.......I have no idea how to work anything yet! Funny thing is....since I was sick all weekend I think Matt put on a ton of miles......he loves it and he drove around all weekend!

We bought this at Norman Chrysler Jeep and Dodge and we had the BEST experience! It was incredibly easy and can you imagine we have not one complaint! They didn't haggle us and we only spent like 15minutes in Financing! If you are in the market for a new car.....I recommend this dealership 110%!!! Here is our awesome sales guy Benedict showing Matt how to work the Nav! Get this.....whenever I put in a CD my car asks me if I want to save the CD to the hard drive! So cool!

The color is actually "Brilliant" it is black with multi-color glitter that sparkles in the sun!

Sorry to go on and on but I am so excited! I haven't had a new car in 9 years and this is so smart it even has "smart cruise control" where my car basically drives itself! Yippee! And yes, we got a Black Friday deal!!!!

Sniffles.....

2011-11-27T10:03:00.000-06:00

Well I hope you all are enjoying your Holiday weekend...........because I have NOT.......I am SICK! I think I have a sinus infection and I feel as though I have a Kleenex permanently attached to my nose! Worse of all? I can't sleep.......I lie awake until like 2am to then wake at 7am! I HATE that today is Sunday and tomorrow starts a CRAZY busy week for me, I hate that ALL I have done is lay on the couch, what a Holiday! Let's hope I can kick this thing today!

Holiday Happy Hour

2011-11-26T09:23:00.000-06:00

Hi friends! I am inviting everyone to a Holiday Shopping Happy Hour I am co-hosting with a friend!!! It is THIS Tuesday!!! You can drop by after work for some food, wine and Holiday shopping in ONE place! You can order.................

We will also have several door prizes!!!! So please stop by I would love to meet you!!!
Here is the info................

Tuesday November 29

6-8pm

JH Office

9002 N May Ave Okc, Ok

Sarah's Key

2011-11-24T18:06:00.001-06:00

I reviewed this book already and you can read it by clicking HERE! I loved it and I was so excited to hear that this book was going to become a movie! Sadly this movie went straight to DVD (Redbox, On demand, etc) and I have no idea why!?? But I am so glad I did not miss this.
The movie adaptation of this book is amazing, emotional, beautifully shot and touching. I think this is something you should watch/read or both because this book is based in fact, a fact that I did not know about the Holocaust. This movie left me wanting more and this movie/book has been on my mind for over 24 hours and I knew I couldn't wait any longer to share it with you all. I highly recommend this movie even if you have not read the book and you should pass the movie on to a friend.
Here is the trailer, enjoy............

Thankful....

2011-11-24T09:00:00.000-06:00

Happy Thanksgiving Friends!

I hope everyone is able to spend today with friends and family, here are a few of the things I am Thankful for......

* That we heard from my brother and that they are in port for Thanksgiving. He said he is finally adjusting to the carrier and the sea-sickness is getting better!

* I am thankful for all our troops who are over seas right now including my Brother-in-law to be!

* I am thankful for Matt and for our bright future!

* I am SO thankful for my animals, I love each of them more than you could imagine!

* I am thankful for all of my family and friends!

What I am Loving Wednesday....

2011-11-23T09:25:00.000-06:00

So I am not being boastful but I am a good gift-giver (most of the time)! It is something I love and the joy I experience as someone opens a gift from me far out ways what the recipient feels! I have had many people ask where I get my ideas?? So today for What I am Loving......I am going to give away a few of my secrets! I will have to be vague because I wouldn't want to spoil my Christmas presents this year!!!
Lets dive in........

1. www.gifts.com
This site is amazing you can search by family member, personality, holiday and price point! This will give you so many ideas from a ton of different websites! I may not purchase from these suggestions but this gives me ideas and gets my wheels in motion!

2. www.redenvelope.com
This is my most used website! I have bought Matt at least 1 or 2 of his "big" gifts every year from this site! Yes, some stuff is pricey but you can find all price points here! I LOVE love this site and you can almost ALWAYS search the internet for a "promo code" to get a discount! I can't tell you but a portion of my Christmas cash will be spent here!

3. www.uncommongoods.com
I LOVE this site! I love love getting their catalog in the mail! They have the most amazing and thoughtful gifts! And I always say this- what a gift is.....something you give someone that they didn't even know they wanted! And that is exactly what this site has! I also have things picked out from here for this year!!!

4. www.spoonsisters.com
This site has everything from quirky, functional, cooking to stocking stuffers! I also love getting this catalog in the mail! You will find so many things that you didn't know you wanted! ha

5. www.restorationhardware.com
This site which is known for expensive home decor actually has the BEST selection of Holiday stocking stuffers! I always get Matts stocking gifts from this site! So you should check it out!

6. Willow House (click HERE)
First off NO I am not trying to get you to buy from my Willow House site but Christmas is the EXACT reason I started selling this. Willow House has the most amazing selection of home and kitchen gifts! I have many picked out to give this year! You should check it out, everything is unique!

So guys! There you go! My secrets are out! I also LOVE Williams-Sonoma and NY&Company for the women in the family! I hope you will find some of these sites useful and let me know if you do....I would LOVE to hear what you found that you loved!

Swoon.........

2011-11-22T08:36:00.000-06:00

Ok, we all know my unhealthy obsession with Channing Tatum but combine him + Rachel McAdams + Romantic Movie + Taylor Swift song on Trailer = HOLY crap.............
Maybe you will enjoy this as much as I did, I can not wait to see this movie..... romantic does not cover what this is...............

Tasty Tuesday

2011-11-22T08:10:00.000-06:00

I posted last nights dinner on Facebook and got a few requests for the recipe! I was watching Rachael Ray on Saturday and this is a side dish she made but for me it was the perfect Meatless Monday meal!
Honeyed Pumpkin Polenta with Pumpkin
** I will show you the modified version I made........I changed it up a bit but for the original click HERE!
Ingredients
Assorted mushrooms thinly sliced (I used criminis and shitaki)
EVOO for drizzling
1 head garlic, cloves crushed
Small handful sage, chopped or thinly sliced
S & P
1 cup cooked pumpkin puree thinned out with chicken stock
Freshly grated nutmeg
1 cup quick-cooking polenta
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons honey

Here are my grits (which I cooked according to the package) and my pumpkin/chicken stock......beware polenta splashes....my cooktop looked like a war zone!

Here are my mushrooms for 1.......toss in EVOO, S & P, sage and garlic and roast at 425'. I roasted mine for 15minutes since there wasn't that much they cooked quick but just keep checking yours!

And after your polenta is done.....stir in your pumpkin, butter and honey!!! Then top with your shrooms......this was SO good! Really it was the perfect meat free Monday meal and I hope you like it as much as I did!

SO lets talk dessert.....I let Matt go thru my "Sweet Tooth" board on Pinterest to pick any dessert and I would make it for him and he picked a Pumpkin Cake! It was TOO die for! So good that Matt literally went on and on! (I sent the rest with him today to share at work)

You can find the recipe for this delish Pumpkin Crunch Cake by clicking HERE! And it would be perfect to make for Thanksgiving and it serves a lot more than a pie would!

Happy Tuesday! Today I am thankful for good food, the good food I am going to eat and the food I am going to bake the rest of the week!
(I am in charge of 4 pies, 1 pumpkin cheesecake and homemade rolls for Thanksgiving festivities all week)

Avalanche!

2011-11-21T15:22:00.000-06:00

I guess next time you are having a bad day think of this video......"OMG" is right, I love it when she says she is going to throw up!
Exit A: Why we have no kids.................... (hehe) Enjoy........

Breaking Dawn

2011-11-21T13:15:00.000-06:00

Finally after 1 1/2 years of waiting Saturday night we got to see Breaking Dawn and if you read the books you know how LONG you have been waiting for that wedding and honeymoon! Thank GOODNESS we wait no more (well unless you count the next YEAR for part 2)! The movie did not disappoint! Is it going to win any Oscars? No way, but it was exactly what I expected and there is nothing not to love about this book coming to life on the big screen. It made me love Edward all over again and I wished I was Bella in that stunning wedding dress! I think they were true to the book and I was like a giddy teenager in more than one scene! I love loved it!

We do have a story though........during the last 15minutes (which are kinda important) of the movie in the balcony where we paid $18 per ticket a drunk women slipped on a menu and knocked herself out. (Stupid) So chaos ensued and we missed the last of the movie while being distracted by people running around.........and then they turned the lights up on us before the "secret scene" at the end of the credits! Needless to say we were pissed but our gal Becky K had our back and got us all vouchers for a free balcony night!!!!!!! I know, someone was knocked out but maybe if she wasn't a crazy drunk that would not have happened?

Thank goodness for Halloween, Target and their $9 shirts! This is the first time I dressed up for a movie and it was fun....I mean when else would I do this???????

My amazing group of gals who have bonded over werewolves and vampires!!!! We had the best time......we met for dinner before the movie and we left as happy campers ALL of us staying up way past our bedtime!! Love you gals!

Two of my lovely JH gals.............Kelsie and Crystal..............It's a Nicole Sandwich! Good luck today....my friend Crystal closes on her new home! Congrats!

So........I did not get home until close to 1am and when I pulled onto my street this is what I saw, my jaw dropped.........(sorry it is a blurry IPhone pic)

And inside this is what I saw........ the tree up and ready to celebrate Christmas............

Our banister was wrapped, lit and shining.............

Matt had even decorated the Mantle and hung our stockings.............

And would you believe that he even changed out ALL 3 of my Scenty's to Christmas ones and put in a new Christmas scent! (Cinnamon Bear) I mean talk about a HUGE and lovely surprise! He said it took him from the moment I left at 6pm until almost midnight! I was so excited and thankful.......he earned some MEGA brownie points I would say huh? I think I might keep him (wink wink)

Over all my Saturday was amazing......I can not wait to see the movie again and I came home to a home ready for the Holidays filled with my favorite person and animals!
So did you see the movie??? And? If you disliked it.....don't ruin my fun so don't comment! (ha)

Behold..........

2011-11-18T13:46:00.000-06:00

One of my most favorite things about the Holidays has arrived in stores! Mint Truffle Kisses!!!!! They are TOO die for! If you have not picked up a bag then please run out and do it today! You will thank me! I may or may not have already eaten 1/2 a bag today?!?! (insert smirk)

Ultimate Twilight Fan Link Up......

2011-11-18T08:28:00.000-06:00

I came across this blog that is hosting a Twilight Fan Link UP and I had to participate because I mean isn't today a Holiday? The Breaking Dawn has finally arrived Holiday?

You answer these questions then link up by clicking on the picture above to be directed to the host site! You only have to answer 5 questions and you can see all the question options on their blog!

1. Are you going to see Breaking Dawn at the midnight release?
No, I didn't.......my friends and I are going tomorrow night to see the movie in the Warren Balcony! Nothing better than having assigned seats!

2. Scene you're most looking forward to in Breaking Dawn?

uh, Hello?

3. Team Edward or Jacob?

I really love them both.....but come on.......

4. Favorite book in the Saga?

I would say Twilight because it was the first book that hooked me and welcomed me into the world of Stephanie Meyers!

5. Why do you love Twilight?
I have always loved to read and I love Twilight because when I read this series it made me even more excited about reading in general! I love Twilight because it gives my girlfriends and I something silly to talk about and look forward to!

6. Are the books or movies better?

Books of course but I LOVE seeing a book I love come to life on the screen even if it isn't perfect!

So for all of you who went to the Midnight showing.....how was it? I can't WAIT! TGIF

Thankful Thursday

2011-11-17T08:21:00.000-06:00

Today I am thankful for all my friends on blogger and facebook who wrote the sweetest comments backing me up over that awful comment that was left on my page. I appreciate each and everyone of you!

It is easier said then done.....as in "get over it, forget about it, etc".! I sadly have a feeling that I know the person who left the comment but they have still decided to remain annoumous. But once again according to them I guess being sad over the fact that my brother is out to sea is selfish. SO creepy comment leaver I will become a robot that has no feelings of my own that might confuse you.... will that make you happy?

Urgh! I swear I will get over this letting them know how much this upsets me is not the path I wanted to go down! But I am thankful for every kind comment left, you guys rock!

And..........I am thankful that I am going to see Breaking Dawn aka the wedding of the century on Saturday! YAY!!!!!

If this is you....

2011-11-16T07:48:00.003-06:00

Comment I just got.........

You are so selfish. This is about your brother, not you and the pity party you are throwing for yourself because of some "mis-communication" and "fifth wheel" crap. Get over yourself and truly be concerned, as you state you are, about your brother and the rest of the troops fighting and dying for your freedom to post some of the ridiculousness that you post.

By Anonymous on USS Makin Island on 11/15/11

I want to thank the awesome person who posted this comment with no name........ you do not know me, you do not know ALL the posts I have done to brag about my brother and my family. There is NOTHING wrong with me saying I wish I was there with my family to take in such a memorable patriotic moment. SO according to you I should not care at all and that while I was sitting at my desk Monday working I should not have thinking about how my brother was loading onto the ship and I wishing I was there???.
According to you the fact that I searched the internet for a live-feed or anything story on this event so I can see it that is selfish?.
According to you posting pictures of the carriers, pictures of my brother and a news story about this historic deployment was selfish?
According to you asking everyone to keep ALL the soldiers on these 3 ships in your constant prayers was selfish also?
According to you any tears shed Monday over the fact that I wish I was there to hug him is selfish?

Whom ever you are you do not know me and since I post constant "ridiculous" posts then take a hike friend. You must also not know that I have volunteered with non-profits for the troops, that in the past I have done post after post about keeping our troops in our minds.
Why don't you ask anyone with a loved one and see if they would care less to be at the deployment ceremony?
Because according to you me being sad that I was not there is the problem. Seeing the pictures of my family hugging him goodbye makes my heart ache. Your right.....I am so selfish.
I have erased my deployment post dedicated to my brother now, so thanks.

Thanks, I would appreciate you to leave me another comment with your name or do you prefer to leave hateful comments and hide behind the anonymous button?

USS Makin Island (REPOSTED)

2011-11-15T13:19:00.003-06:00

I HAVE DECIDED TO REPOST THIS POST DUE TO HIGH DEMAND AND I HAVE ACTUALLY HIGHLIGHTED ON THE BOTTOM THE PORTION THAT MUST OF MADE SOMEONE VERY MAD! ENJOY...............

Yesterday was the BIG day! My brother who is a 1st Lieutenant in the Marines left on the USS Makin Island Naval Carrier for his deployment.

This is a picture taken yesterday of the USS Makin Island Naval Carrier leaving the San Diego port. This drive by was very special and emotional as all family members were in the harbor waving flags, saying goodbye and watching their loved ones leave.

The USS Makin Island is setting out along with the USS New Orleans and the USS Pearl Harbor shown below. This picture was also taken yesterday as they set out on a course that I would rather not say on this blog. They will be gone anywhere from 7-9months. And something special the USS Makin Island is the first of it's kind......it has become a "hybrid"!

This is what my brother will be staying in for the most part..........roomy huh? Not for me!

And this is a picture Curtis took during training exercises before deplyment. They have done extensive training on/in case of "Pirates" off the coast of Somalia that we have been hearing so much about lately.

For the life of me I could not get this video to "embed" on my site but if you click on that link below it will take you to a San Diego news channel and their story on the USS Makin Island deployment. So please watch this short video...............
'Hybrid drive' warship departs on maiden voyage

My Mom, Dad, Sister and my brothers Girlfriend made the trip out to San Diego to spend the last 48 hours with him, drive him to the carrier and to be apart of the deployment ceremony. I think my sisters facebook message sums it up correctly.......
Waiting for Curtis and the other Marines to pass by on the USS Makin Island. Not sure I've ever had a more patriotic moment. I love my brother so much and I am so thankful for his service to our country.

It makes me sad that I wasn't there.....that is a moment that will never be re-lived. Why wasn't I there? Let's just call it "a mis-communication" on my part. This past weekend seems like it was a truly bonding and memorable time for my family!

Just keep my brother, the Navy men and all the Marines on these 3 ships in your prayers and on your mind. While our president is stating that troop withdrawal has started so many forget that more deploy each and everyday.

I am sad and I will miss Curtis.

Tasty Tuesday

2011-11-15T07:59:00.000-06:00

Picky-Palate is one of my favorite recipe blogs, her recipes are tasty, easy and approchable!!! On Sunday night I made 2 of her recipes and I had to share them with you because I KNOW you will want to make these for your family too!
Crockpot Green Chili and Rice.........

Ingredients
3-4 large boneless skinless chicken breasts, thawed
2 cans 98% fat free Cream of Chicken soup
4 0z can chopped green chilies (I used 2 cans for more flavor, highly recommend that)
1 teaspoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper
1/4 teaspoon Lawry’s garlic salt with parsley
6 Cups steamed rice of choice
Blue Corn Tortilla Chips, crumbled for garnish

Layer 1 can of the soup, then the chicken (I cut mine in 1/2) then season your chicken......

Top with the other can of cream of chicken soup and the cans of green chili's! Then close the lid and let this cook on low for 6 hours! (Mine was done in 5 1/2 hours)

Then your chicken is so tender use two forks to shred all the chicken............... yumm!

Then all you do is get your steamed rice, top with the chicken green chili sauce and then crumble up blue corn tortilla chips! I promise you will love this, it is even better the next day for lunch!!!

I then made the Picky-Palate Pumpkin Chocolate chip cake with Pumpkin Buttercream icing! Yumm.....she makes it in 2 loaf pans but I made it in a cake pan and adjusted the cooking time!

The icing was delish of course, but I might add more pumpkin to the icing next time I make it!

And here you go........yummy!!! To see the recipe click HERE!! I served mine with vanilla ice cream!

Sundays meal was delish, you should make it!! Let me know if you like everything as much as I did!

JUST what I needed.......

2011-11-14T14:16:00.000-06:00

Yes, it's me...I am back.....3rd post of the day.....but I couldn't wait to share with you all something exciting!! So...I have been having an awful day, just down right crummy for many reasons and reasons I don't (shouldn't) post. It is also gloomy here in OKC which is enhancing my awful mood when the door bell rang! (The dogs went wild) The postman had a pretty heavy box to deliver and I am thinking "Gosh Nicole what did you order now"?!?!? But the box was weird no markings...................

And I open it up much to my COMPLETELY SURPRISE.....I WON something! I entered awhile back a contest at The Chew's FB site and I WON! This is legit................check it.........

I got a "The Chew" hoodie in my favorite color GREY, all I need to do is shrink it a tad.....................

And I then won 4 BOOKS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! 1 book from each of the hosts (except Carla)! I can not believe it! SO cool..........

I mean I REALLY needed this today.............. I never win anything and I won something that I love....cookbooks!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Maybe this is the "worlds/Gods" way of telling me things will get better.

SO thank you to The Chew for picking me......too bad there wasn't any tickets to come see their show in the box (I double checked)! HAHA, I know beggars can't be choosers, right?

So I just had to share! I am off to devour my new books!

OMG OMG OMG

2011-11-14T10:14:00.000-06:00

YES! That deserved 3 "OMG" I am so excited I have chills........................

Weekend Recap!

2011-11-14T09:08:00.000-06:00

So this weekend Matt and I went to the Okc Outlet mall and I found some crazy good deals in the Saks outlet!

So these 7 for all Mankind, Dojo jeans are my favorite jean ever and the pair I got on Saturday have crystals sewn into the 7s on the butt. They are priced at $259.00 would you like to know what I paid during this weekends jean sale? $90!!!! NO joke! I mean that is a steal!

Then I found a pair of Hudson flare jeans that I loved and they were priced at $209.00 and I paid $77!!!! I mean I would NEVER be able to get either of these jeans for that cheap like ever again! And now all I have to do is get them altered! I am so exited! If you live in Okc it might be worth it go see if the sale is still on!

Then when we got home from shopping on Saturday my Birchbox was in my mail and this was the BEST one yet!!!! Here is what I got..........
I got a Alterier perfume sample
Custom letter print coasters
Zoya nail polish in a beautiful pink
LaRocca Champagne glow face lotion
Borghese mud face mask
Bauble Bar bracelet with crystals which I LOVE!
Can you believe I got all this $10 which includes shipping?????????
If you want to start getting this every month leave me your email address in a comment and I will email you a invite because that way I will get some points! (What you do with them, I am not sure)

So guys! How was your weekend? I have a few recipes to post later today.....you will love them!

Give Away Winner..........

2011-11-14T07:48:00.000-06:00

CONGRATS! Email (nsavage@live.com) me your shipping address and of course I am going to throw in a new holiday scent to go with your plug in! Congrats Maria! Happy Holidays!

Maria said...

i love it! i am obsessed with anything red and festive. i would put it in my kitchen, for sure. i have pops of red throughout the room.
have a happy day! <3
maria

Is Bella trying to kill me?

2011-11-13T09:22:00.000-06:00

Here is something funny and cute for Funday Sunday.....................

Give Away!

2011-11-12T12:34:00.000-06:00

Want to WIN this? Be sure to enter my Give Away and I will announce the winner on Monday!!!!!! Click HERE to visit my Give Away post! Or just be sure to scroll down a bit to see the post! Have a great weekend!

Friday Free-for-All

2011-11-11T08:50:00.001-06:00

Hi, I have some inceredibly vast topics to touch on today.....my version of my 2 cents (wanted or unwanted, who knows) soooo let's dive in!

1. Couch Potato
All you bloggers probably know that on your dashboard you can look at your "stats" including the most searched words that lead people to your blog. Well well well my most searched word leading the pack by 30% iS COUCH POTATO! LOL! This doesn't mean people are looking for me under that search but for some reason google pops up my blog when that is typed in! eh, well.....looks like google knows me very well!

2. Kim K divorce dibocle......
Ok, I have to say some stuff that I want to get out............Doesn't ANYBODY try anymore? I mean it is literally insane that during their 72 days or marriage they lived in a hotel with Scott, Kourtney and their baby for a month filming a show then Kim went off to Dubai with her mom and NOT her husband. I mean how does any of that set the ground work for a marriage that works? Then the rumors that she was sick of him not working while she "works" so hard and she insisted he get a job..............doesn't she realize there is an NBA lockout? I mean what was he suppose to do? I mean she is unreal. I am betting they only spent 20 of those 72 days together. It is insane to me that no one including Kim tries anymore?!? I guess when you are so rich and you dont even live together a Divorce is easy?! I dunno, but it annoys me............I mean what? Are we suppose to think "poor kim"??? Hell no!

* Penn State
This is a touchy subject I agree but the past 2 nights while I was watching the nightly news and seeing these student act like idiots it made me IRATE! I mean these misguided college students are actually rioting for a FOOTBALL coach?! If their coach was so amazing and beloved by everyone then he would of done the right thing? NO? These kids need to be mourning what happened to these innocent boys. I mean the "Acts" that happened are sick, this awful man raped boys in the Penn State locker room shower?! It is mind blowing that NO ONE did anything. So for all you "Jo Pa" fans who are sad your coach is gone remember he sat back and DID nothing when he found out a 10 YEAR old boy was raped in his locker room. These students disgust me..................

What is on your mind this week?

Thankful Thursday & Give Away!

2011-11-10T08:51:00.000-06:00

* I am thankful that Matt has been able to be home a little earlier in the evenings lately! 30 minutes can make a BIG difference!
* I am thankful for the cooler weather, now if only it would stay that way....I am ready to bundle up!
* I am so thankful I work from home and I can stay in my PJ's all morning if I want to!
* I am thankful I was finally able to get my hair done yesterday...I finally feel like a girl again! HA
* I am thankful that the Holidays are around the corner............

AND since they are around the corner I am going to give away a beautiful Scentsy Red Snowflake Plug-in! Perfect for Christmas and I leave mine up all Winter!
How to enter?
1. You must already follow my blog or become a follower!
(1/2 way down on the left side of the blog, click follow)
2. Then leave a comment and tell me where you are going to put your new Scentsy Plug-in!?

I will randomly pick a winner MONDAY morning!!!!!! So be sure to enter, Good Luck!

Remember if you want to earn FREE Scentsy for the Holidays it is SOO EASY !! Leave me a comment or email me at nsavage@live.com if you are interested and NO you do not have to live in Oklahoma ! All you have to do is email all your friends and family about your online party and then at the end of 2 weeks you will earn 10% of your party sales and 1/2 off 1or 2 items! The past few blogger followers who did this earned OVER $40 FREE and 1/2 off 2 items! So easy!

What I am Loving Wednesday!

2011-11-09T12:37:00.000-06:00

* So!!! I am loving the new Breaking Dawn Soundtrack that just came out! It makes me this much more excited for the movie NEXT week!

* My favorite song on the Soundtrack is Christina Perri, Thousand Years
I saw a behind the scenes interview with her on E! and she is actually such a huge Twilight fan, which is cool! She even has a Twilight tattoo on her wrist! She said they let her see the movie and then write any song she wanted! How cool! This song is just so beautiful!

* Tokyo Milk
I LOVE these perfumes! I have "Let them eat cake" and "I want Candy"! They are fairly inexpensive considering how amazing they are! These would make an amazing christmas gift they have the cutest names and I love the sweet smell of the candy one! You can visit the website HERE!

* SO I have to ask is anyone else in love with Vampire Diaries as much as I am? It literally keeps getting better and I LOVE LOVE this show! I am going to say something that may upset some of you.......... I love Vampire Diaries more than Twilight any day! There I said it! This show is just so fresh, hot, filled with beautiful people and the action never stops! Loves it!

* Believe it or not I got this amazing black dress from the new Jennifer Lopez collection at Kohls! I will say the pieces are over priced but this was on sale and it was so cute once you put it on! This will be great this winter with tights and a cardigan or with strappy sandals and a belt for summer! It is very Charlotte don't ya think?? (SATC)

What are you all loving on this fine Wednesday?

I'm ALIVE!!!!

2011-11-09T11:58:00.000-06:00

Hi friends!!! I have missed you all, I finally crawled out of my hole for a little bit today......feels good! I am going to try to catch you up on where I have been lately.........
Last Friday I made subs for charity for 6 hours with JH!! It was a lot of fun and we made OVER 1300 on Friday! I mean that is a lot of work and we rocked it..........

Saturday night Matt and I ventured out to go see In Time at the Warren... it was an entertaining movie and the story was intriguing but honestly just wait until it comes out on DVD.....no need to run out to go see this one!

The past two days this has been me.......................
I have been working my butt off to turn in a hard project for work and WHEW! I did! It feels good to this one off my back! So today I was able to come up for air as I started something new!

Lastly, if you live in Oklahoma then you will know all this but if you don't then here is what has happened in Oklahoma in a 3 day time span.........
* 3 Earthquakes the biggest being 5.6
* Thunderstorms and flooding
* Tornado outbreak
Yes, it appears to be the end of time drawing near! I will say they earthquakes really freaked me out! A tornado you have warning but this just happens so fast......all of a sudden our glasses are clanking and the whole house is moving back and forth. I can really do without ever going thru that again!
This video is great........you can see Kirk's eyes bug out of his head and then he tries to stay composed while going thru a earthquake............. enjoy!

And I will leave you all with this important "How to Survive Oklahoma" Flow Chart.................

Something to make you laugh....

2011-11-07T12:20:00.002-06:00

Guys! I have been so busy and I owe you a post to catch everyone up on my life.....but until I find the time enjoy this.............be sure to watch the whole thing! SPOT ON! Loves it!

Lookie Loo...

2011-11-03T13:37:00.000-05:00

I am sure you all have been wondering what my sister Marissa has been up to these days right? We should all live vicariously thru her! So here we go...........
Marissa and two of her girlfriends Sarah and Courtney celebrating on OU Game Day! (And no, this was not after the Tech game, ha) BOOMER!

If you were never in a sorority then you do not know the joy of "Big /Little"! These two are my sisters new "twins"! Long story short they are in her "family" now and on this night they were all surprised with TONS of gifts including matching PJ's from their new "bigs"!! They are much more creative now then when I was there....... they opened the box and out popped Marissa!! Ah, those were the days........

This is Marissa helping with OU welcome week and she made the cover of the OU paper! I am not sure but it looks like she is holding up a tray with subs? ha!

Marissa has also been picked as the ONLY representative for the Greek system to be on a committee for the OU Men's Basketball team! They help generate student support and think about fun ways to get everyone involved! SO a few weeks ago the OU Men's team held a reunion of sorts with past players and Marissa was one LUCKY duck who got to meet and get her picture with Blake Griffin! If you live under a rock or don't like the NBA this is the Slam Dunk man himself................

Here is Marissa when we got to meet OU's President David Boren. This was actually a very huge deal.......she was picked for being one of the outstanding students in the entire OU campus!

And lastly, her modeling days are upon her! This is just one shot for the University of Oklahoma 2012-2013 Recruitment packet featuring MY SISTER Marissa! Getting picked is a HUGE deal you have to excel in all areas of college and be in like the top 1%! So yes, this is VERY cool!

So that about sums it up..........fun huh?

Thankful Thursday

2011-11-03T09:02:00.000-05:00

* I am thankful for the cold weather that moved into Oklahoma, I love it!
* I am thankful for my friend Becky B. who knows what I am going to say before I even say it!
* I am thankful for the provisional class at JH this year, I LOVE getting to know them all and I am thankful that I have so many new friends! They all make me smile!
* I am thankful that my mom picked me up yesterday at the oil change place to go to lunch. Oil change done another thing I don't have to worry about!
* I am thankful for the crazies on Dr. Phil who entertain me while I work! Yes, I am for real!

What are you thankful for?

What I am Loving- Take II

2011-11-02T15:40:00.001-05:00

I am loving how COOL and nice KD is! Watch this video and listen to the story of one very lucky guy! How neat........

What I am Loving Wednesday!

2011-11-02T08:25:00.000-05:00

Hi! I am back! Do you ever just need a few days to clear your head? I sometimes feel like my mind is so full that I just can't possibly fit one more thing inside!
Moving on......can you believe it is November? I swear that just yesterday it was like July! After this weekend I am so hoping that my life can slow down and that will allow me to enjoy this month! We shall see huh?

* So last night it was my night to help with the meal at JH and I brought mash potatoes which were a hit! And it shocked me that no one knew about these amazing steam 'n' mash potatoes! This bag is literally full of real potatoes that you steam in the microwave for 10 minutes. You then finish the potatoes just like you would if you have baked whole potatoes! (butter, milk and mash) I will never bake potatoes again when this cuts out the peeling and chopping! You must try it out!

* I just love this song, this font and the way this is laid out! This would be beautiful framed!

* I am loving how much Matt loved his 4th Anniversary gifts! I got him the book Moneyball, I got him the new Coach Men's cologne (smells amazing) and a men's leather Coach keychain. It makes me happy knowing how much he enjoyed his gifts!

* I love this picture! No one told Ralph who weighs over 50 pounds that he isn't a lap dog! This picture is just so sweet, our Ralphie has such a tender heart!

* I am loving the meal we had on Friday at the Melting Pot! I know that you either love fondue or you don't but I don't know what is not to love! (that was a mouth full) I always look forward to when we get to eat at the Melting Pot next!

* I am loving how Abner seems to still be doing so well! We take him back to the vet in a few weeks for a full check up which will put my mind at ease! We are thankfully more than 1/2 way thru his recovery! I just love this little guy so much!

What are you loving today?

Hiatus

2011-10-31T07:51:00.000-05:00

Hi Blogger Friends! I am just letting you all know I am going to take a 2-3 day (or even 1, who knows) break from my blog! Life is just busy and hard sometimes!
I will be back soon! Don't leave me......ha!

Happy......

2011-10-30T08:00:00.000-05:00

Happy 31st Birthday to my husband Matt! Love you and I have been excited to spend the weekend with you celebrating! xoxox

Friday Free-for-All

2011-10-28T09:12:00.000-05:00

Hi Friends! First of all THANK you for the Anniversary wishes, mucho appreciated!!! And no, we didn't celebrate yet because I had JH last night so tonight we are going to The Melting Pot! It is somewhat of a tradition for us and of course it's yummy!

Have you guys seen the preview for Puss in Boots? I will say I do not like animated movies but this looks beyond cute!!!! I think because I have a cat and my parents have 2! Silly, I know but I love how they incorporated real cat traits into the movie!!! Here is the trailer.....

Saturday we are going to watch the OU game at my parents while eating Chili and celebrating over cake for Matt's 31st Birthday (which is Sunday)! Then on Sunday I am going to cook a special dinner for him which I look forward to! I know, this is a great week for Matt huh? LOL! But I will say it over and over I love this week.....I like his birthday better than mine!

Sooo I want to do something Halloween-ish this weekend.......so has anyone seen the Paranormal movie? How scary is it? I am a baby...so someone let me know!

What do you all have going on this weekend?

4 years ago today......

2011-10-27T08:41:00.000-05:00

4 years ago today Matty and I got hitched!! It was a beautiful sunny warm October Day and the saying is true....I don't remember much of that day, it is all a blur now!!
Here is "The Kiss", one of my favorite pictures from our wedding! Right after this when we walked down the isle my cathedral veil got caught on one of the "kissing balls" at the end of each pew! We all just laughed it off!

* We got engaged after 10 months and then we had a year long engagement! Here is one of my favorite engagement pictures of us, awe.....we look like babies!

* The first 1 1/2 years were spent with me on turf or the court and Matt in the stands, luckily he got free Season tickets to both!! When I "retired" from professional dance I surprised Matt with a long weekend in St. Louis to go to a Cardinals Game!

* Matt is a great golfer and in the past few years he has started riding dirt bikes! Matt is very athletic, he was a pitcher in college all 4 years!

* Matt and I have gotten to do some fun things in the past 4 years but mostly we love the nights where just the two of us are hanging out at home watching a movie! That is something I love about him, he is a home body!

* Matt is caring, kind, silly and driven! All things that make Matt special! Our future is bright!

I started this blog 4 years ago after our "Wedding Website" expired so I thought I would give blogging a whirl....hence our name Newly Wed Savages! I never thought this blog would have such a place in my life, but I am so glad.....I love sharing my life with all of you!

Happy 4 years Matty, love you so much! And like we always say.....looking forward to so many many more! xoxox

What I am Loving Wednesday! UPDATED

2011-10-26T11:13:00.001-05:00

Happy Halloween Hump Day! (yes, that was a mouth full) I am sitting here at my desk in our home office watching the wind pick up as a cold front moves in! FINALLY I say, I hope this cooler weather will actually help me to start feeling like it is fall! I am loving some great fall things this week.....

* This picture describes me perfectly, if I could freeze time I would want this ALL year!

* Betsy Ross, my parents Mini Australian Shepard! She loves me.... I like to play kissy-face with her! bahaha! They named her Betsy Ross because they got her over the 4th of July but I like to call her Diana Ross because Betsy is such a Diva...... my little Supreme! (one day I might tell you all the things I call my animals....if your lucky) I will give her a big hug and kiss from you all next time I see her!

* SOUP!!!!!!!!!!
I LOVE making homemade soup, it is just something I find I am good at and now I am too spoiled and can't even think about opening a can of soup! Here are some recipes I pinned lately that are on my "To Make" list!
Garlic and Cauliflower Soup
Click HERE for recipe!

Smokey Sweet Potato Soup! Yummy
Click HERE for this recipe!

BLT Soup! Sounds dreamy.....
Click HERE for recipe, And friends let me know if you get around to making any of these before I do!

* American Horror Story & The Walking Dead
I know I have talked about both of these before but I LOVE them! The Walking Dead is so stressful......such a great show with Zombies!!

And this is the creepiest show EVER, at the end of each episode it leaves me begging for more!

* AMC Fright Fest
Thank you AMC for playing Scary Movies ALL day everyday until Halloween! I love a great old scary movie! BUT I pass on all the new horror movies.....too gory!

* If the Tiara Fits!
So I bought the shirt below at a craft show a week or two ago and I love it. I think it has the right about of Holiday without being cheesy! This woman makes these amazing vintage shirts that I can't get enough of!

She makes every type and theme.......you gotta check out her site...click HERE

* Lastly THANKS to my friend Traci I am LOVING this highlight video from Sunday nights NBA Charity Game! SO neat to see it like this.....I was THERE!

So friends! What are you loving today?

Food for Thought...

2011-10-26T08:18:00.000-05:00

This week I have asked Matt if he told his co-workers about his awesome weekend and he said "not really"....I was like "why?" and his answer was "I don't like to brag" and those words got me thinking......

I have been thinking I sure hope no one thinks that is what I a doing. For me we all know I am boring 99% of the year but when we do something fun I want to share it with you all, that is the point of a blog....no? And I feel like there is a HUGE different between bragging and being proud. For me I can't wait to share with everyone how proud I am that I pulled off a surprise. Truly, you all know that I say .....gift giving for me is partly selfish....I just LOVE making someone (usually Matt) so happy. I mean knowing that something I did is what has made Matt happy....I just beam with pride. So I sure hope that all my FB friends and Bloggy friends know that about me and know that I am not a boastful person.

Secondly, I do know some blogs that ARE very boastful......the purpose of some blogs is just to brag and show off and I hate that. So I hope that when I talk about something I have done for Matt or I share with you all that we got to do something exciting that I am NEVER bragging but sharing with you all something that makes me happy.

Kapeesh? Ok, I will get off my soap box!

We.Are.Family...

2011-10-25T10:13:00.000-05:00

Last night my whole family went to Mickey Mantle's to celebrate 3 things:
1. Curtis being home before deployment
2. Curtis's Birthday
3. Matt's Birthday
And of course before we left the house I was picture-nazi............Hey, someone has to be the picture person! And I got my outfit from Lucca at Penn.

The ladies of the house......... I am so short when I am wearing flats and my sister is in heels!

Marissa and sweet Betsy Ross getting in some snuggles! AND no on rocks skinny jeans as good as Marissa does!

Sadly, this will be the last sibling picture until late next summer......You can't think that way too much or it will be too easy to be down in the dumps. Curtis is being deployed from Thanksgiving Day-end of next June. He is a Marine, an officer if you didn't know or are new to my blog and he is stationed at Pendleton.

Awe, Betsy snuggles are the best! I just want to squeeze her she is so gosh darn cute!

The whole gang at Mickeys! I was so glad that Matt was able to get off work to come with us! And yes, he sure does look snazzy in his suit doesn't he?

Curtis and Jordan at the table with the huge dessert plate sent over by the Mickeys Managers! And don't they look cute? I will say this is the FIRST time ever that we have spent time with a girlfriend of his. I do not remember him EVER bringing a girl to family stuff....so you can see how special she must be to him.

I told Matt to blow out the candles and this is what he gave me.....he was being stupid..............typical man.

This picture is full of happy faces and full stomachs...........such a nice way to start the week! BIG Thanks to my Dad to treating everyone to such a great night out!

Matty and I........I Love him and I love his Birthday week!

Well blogger friends..........you are all up to speed on my life! This is truly my favorite week of the whole year! AND>......finally Oklahoma is getting some cool weather at the end of the week which is the icing on the cake for me!

Kevin Durant Charity Game......

2011-10-25T08:48:00.000-05:00

So on Sunday we switched gears and back tracked to Matt's Birthday! The WS was his Christmas and this NBA Charity game was part of his Birthday! Before we went to the game we met up with my family for dinner........

The guys were warming up when we got to the game, our seats were much better than I thought which was a nice surprise! We were just 12 rows up on the side!

Matt and I at the game........this is our old arena where the Yard Dawgz use to play and our hockey team plays. Right now no NBA player can be inside any of the NBA arena's due to the lock out so this was the perfect spot for the guys to get together!

Here is our beloved Kevin Durant who organized this whole game, he really is a great guy and OKC loves him! Sadly, Blake Griffin aka Mr. Slam Dunk had a "hurt" foot and had to back out of the game.....which I can understand BUT what I don't understand is why he couldn't even show up and sit on the bench. I mean this was HIS event.....the shirts all say Griffin vs Durant?! So I personally think that even thought he cut his foot in ocean (true story) he should of came to support the guys. So rude. Ok, I am off my soap box.

I will say that this game made me like Lebron a smidgen more than I did before the game. I mean he showed up, played for charity and he looked like he was having a great time! I will say he was not the leading scorer by a long shot......Beasly from the Timberwolves was followed by Durant and Carmelo Anthony.

It was SOOO nice to see Chris Paul, Okc still loves him since the Hornets were the Okc Hornets for 2 years he is still in the family you could say! I had to cheer extra loud for him and his mad dribbling skills!

Game time..........Blue vs White

Carmelo Anthony and Durant ready for the jump ball............ This game also made me like Carmelo a lot....I don't think he stood out during the season but here he was on fire and he just seems nice.

Lebron James #6............Chris Paul, Anthony, Durant..........

One of my FAVS..........James Harden, looks like someone has been working out this summer! HA!

Kevin at the Free Throw line...........

And this was the final score! This was just such a fun laid back game! Loved every minute and it makes me miss the Thunder even more! Come on and "Let the Boys Play"!!!!!!!!!!!

Matt had a great time which I am glad about, such a fun way to kick off the start of his Birthday week!

World Series 2011

2011-10-24T14:39:00.001-05:00

Friends I am going to let my pictures speak for themselves......this was one of if not THE best sporting event I have ever been to!!! The Cards crushed the Rangers 16-7 and we got to witness Pujols make history as the 3rd player to EVER hit 3 homers in ONE World Series Game! It was a magical night......I hope you enjoy my pictures! And oh ya, we paid $60 just to park our car! LOL

oh! This picture below is NOLAN RYAN! It took me a minute to grab my camera.......

What a night, we got home a little after 2am! Whew!

Surprise!!!

2011-10-24T14:08:00.000-05:00

Saturday morning since my brother is in town before his deployment my mom wanted to do some new family pictures! It was a beautiful morning in the park and perfect weather for pictures.......( Both outfits Matt is wearing was part of his Birthday presents from me....super cute I must say)

Matt and I even changed to sneak in a few of our own pictures for Christmas Cards hopefully.....

Here is my brother and his girlfriend Jordan, they wanted a few pictures together before the deployment! Which is understandable since Curtis will be gone until next June!

Marissa got a few of her own taken also! I am excited to see how they all turn out! The photographer Rachelle went to HS with my brother and I went to HS with her husband!

Here is Jordan (congrats on her blog debut....HAHA), she has been living in NYC and worked for Haper Collins (so cool) but she is actually moving back to Okc in a few weeks. It was nice to meet her and my brother seems very happy. They met during college (OBU) and reconnected over the summer!

SO then comes the moment I was waiting for ( I was on pins and needles all morning)............I told Matt I had a present for my brother but really it was for him. It was in a Christmas sack because this is his Christmas present! He is confused....

Matt is like, Oh thanks.........and then I dropped the BOMB! I told him we gotta get.......we have a drive to make and he looks at me with a 1/2 smile and I then tell him we are going to the WORLD SERIES! BOOM!

The Cardinals are his favorite team and when we were dating about 5 years ago I also surprised him with a trip to St. Louis to go a Cards game.....so this is a full circle moment! Yes! The tickets were expensive but since it was only a 3 hour drive for us to Ranger Stadium I knew this was a ONCE in a lifetime experience! I mean THE WORLD SERIES!!!!!!! If your a sports fan you know how amazing this is!

Matt still looks a little shocked huh? And I have the cheesiest "I am so glad I surprised you" grin all over my face! Gift giving is so selfish, I swear I felt better than he did!
Stay tuned for our Game Pics!!!!!!!!!!
Hope you all had a great weekend like we did!

Thoughts and Prayers......

2011-10-24T08:00:00.000-05:00

Hi Blogger friends! I have SO much to catch you guys up on....this past weekend was one of the best weekends in Matt's life BUT before I fill you all in on that I am placing a virtual prayer request!

My blogger friends are the BEST and so I am asking you to keep Matt's family in your thoughts and prayers. My wonderful Mother-in-Law Micki found out last week her mother has breast cancer. And today/right now she is undergoing a mastectomy. Her recovery will be about 6 weeks and they will also find out today if the cancer has spread to her lymph nodes or not. I will keep you updated!

Thank you all, I will be back later!

Guess What?

2011-10-22T12:36:00.002-05:00

I surprised Matt with Christmas early.......... We are headed to Game 3 of the WORLD SERIES to watch his Cardinals play!
Will catch you all up on Monday!

I Confess....

2011-10-21T10:06:00.000-05:00

Linking up with a new blog and trying something new......

* I confess.......that I am not being very productive today, AT ALL.
* I confess.....that yesterday I wasn't myself and I yelled at the dogs so much to stop barking that my throat hurts.
* I confess....that our neighbors are getting a new roof which is the worst thing ever when you have a dog in a "silent" recovery.....I kinda want to go outside and scream. I might go postal.
* I confess.....that this is my FAVORITE time of the year and I haven't really enjoyed it.
* I confess....that I haven't washed my hair since Tuesday. (I know, don't judge me too harshly)
* I confess....that I have spent too much money this week on various things.
* I confess....that this week I have eaten nothing but crap and I may or may not have eaten a Sara Lee Coffee Cake for lunch yesterday.
What would you like to confess?

Daughter of Smoke and Bone...

2011-10-20T09:53:00.000-05:00

About the boo

AROUND THE WORLD, black handprints are appearing on doorways, scorched there by winged strangers who have crept through a slit in the sky.

In a dark and dusty shop, a devil’s supply of human teeth has grown dangerously low.

And in the tangled lanes of Prague, a young art student is about to be caught up in a brutal otherwordly war.

MEET KAROU. She fills her sketchbooks with monsters that may or may not be real; she’s prone to disappearing on mysterious “errands;” she speaks many languages — not all of them human; and her bright blue hair actually grows out of her head that color. Who is she? That is the question that haunts her, and she’s about to find out.

I loved this book it was pure fantasy that pulls you right in! It is not about Vampires or Werewolves and it is such a fresh take on a YA novel that sets itself apart from all the others! This book will likely become a trilogy and I can not wait to read book #2 because it leaves you hanging! I highly recommend this book.....you should check it out! Loved it!