Merry Christmas to All and to All....

Well I think its time Pav signs off for a couple of days - with the holidays and work (everyone and their mother is trying to get a sugury in before the end of the year)has been very busy. Grandpa is in town, as well as the older brother, and of course Catherine. After I get off work this afternoon I will head home to spend the next two nights with the family ... this weekend Catherine, Mandy, Goose, and I will head to the beach and see the Goodson Family and have some fun times at beach. Then its back home until New Years Eve and I am headed with some girlfriends to Charleston to ring in 2009!


With this being said blog friends - Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

FIVE

FIVE IS THE NUMBER OF DAYS UNTIL SEE THIS FACE AND LET ME TELL Y'ALL I CANNOT WAIT I'M SO EXCITED!

Self Knowing Spiritual Self-Improver

I took the 43 Things Personality Quiz and found out I'm a Self-Knowing Spiritual Self-Improver

Graduation!

My roomie Daniel graduated today! Whoot whoot! So as for mere two weeks all roomies will be out of school ...until January 6th rolls around I'm headed back for round two. However - CONGRATULATIONS DANIEL - SO PROUD OF YOU! :)

Sugar Me Gently Yet Again

Okay so update on Mary Sue - she is running as Robert the mechanic put it "Like she is fresh off the lot" - however it cost me $500.00 to obtain this "fresh off the lot" vehicle. Um can we say super de duper...but I must say Mary Sue has been so good to me over the past couple of years and I hope this continues because we have two years left together and home girl needs to get my behind to Durham and back everyday for nursing school. Breaking down in Durham is never an option for me.
So on a positive note - not only is the car fixed but the gas mileage should improve lots. Yeah!

Ahh crap - okay I promise I will actually get to the smiling part mentioned in my earlier post but I need to get ready for Bunco...

Sugar Me Gently

Umm...

So my car has broken down (bless Mary Sue) ...should have heeded the warning signs when she started bucking. However Robert my awesome mechanic says its most likely spark plugs and she just needs a tune up and she is not going to die - not yet anyways.

In the process of me getting ready this morning I was ironing my clothes like a good girl and my iron fell on my wrist. Can we say AWESOME to second degree burns on my wrist. Sweetness. Thankfully I work at a hospital and their are plenty of doctors and nurses for me to show my injury too. Anyone want to play doctor? hehe just kidding!


However this is okay - why?! Because when life hands you lemons you make lemonade and for some reason I still have a skip in my step ... hmm I wonder why? Well this evening I will sit down explain to y'all why this could be. Well maybe tomorrow - I have Bunco this evening to attend too....

After Work Happenings...

When I got off of work this afternoon I went and ran a few errands around town. One of my errands brought me here:

The Library! Now let me tell y'all I really cannot remember the last time I checked out a book. It has been awhile...I have this thing about buying books. Every time I go to Costco or Target I buy a book. However - I think my budget could handle me not buying a new book...hence the trip to the library. Allison recommended the following book because I our recent adventure planning with Catherine.

Did y'all know you can check out your own books now? That was fantastic. However they did not have the fun due date stamp thing that you use on the back. I mean come on that's the best part!

On the way home I decided to picked up some dinner for the me and the roomie (see below and be jealous)

Oh yes - a delicious pepperoni and mushroom pizza from Amedeos (with a side of Ranch). I hardly ever eat/touch pizza these days BUT some times you have to give in succumb to the cravings and today was one of those days. :)

Oh Lucy Tree

I'm sitting here on the couch watching Home Alone (best Christmas movie from when we were kids - hands down) and Lucy keeps walking over to the Christmas tree and putting her face in it. Its the funniest thing. She just sticks her whole face in the tree - stands there for like 20 seconds - walks away and plops herself in front of the fire...gets up and does it again. Its not like she is trying to mess with the ornaments or eat the branches ... perhaps she enjoys the smell of the evergreens.

I love dogs.

Elf Yourself

Have y'all ever elf yourself before? It is hysterical and this year you can select dances for your elves. I decided to elf the roomies and Lucy.
Here is the link so y'all can watch!
http://elfyourself.jibjab.com/view/zZ9eKRTaLq5lg9Wi

Whoot Whoot Double Fist Pump

Now I know just a mere couple of hours ago I was asking life why sometimes it enjoyed throwing so many curve balls at me .... but blogging friends I'm telling y'all the silver lining is always there. You want to know why calls for my shouts of joy - well let me tell you. And after you read this - yes you are going to say a) she's hormonal b) wow she really is into those little things in life c) maybe she is just plain nuts - i mean she did just blog about prozac like 6 hrs earlier...


Tonight was my last night class! I have been taking night classes since June and tonight was the last one. I am done and now the next step is Nursing School in January. This class has been quite the challenge out any of the one's I have taken previously. It was a religion course and honestly I thought it was going to be a walk in the park and it was so not. However - tonight as I sat in purgatory Matt Damon up and walked in and sat next to me. Now I know bloggers you might say - "What in tarnation is Matt Damon doing in your religion class?!" Okay so maybe it wasnt Matt Damon - but I'm telling y'all it might as well have been his twin. He even talked like him ... I was like "Well hello - I'm...." Needless to say I deemed him my good luck charm of the evening and I do believe his presence next to me help me on the final!

So silver lining number 1 of the evening


On the ride home from bumble bee tuna land (because where Im taking my courses are seriously way way far away) all the songs on the radio were my fav's. I mean this chick was seriously b-bopping the whole 40 mins home this evening. Just one radio station after the next - it was fabulous.

Silver lining number 2


I arrived home to not only find my dear goose so excited and happy to see me - such a plus about having a dog BUT a package sitting on one of our chairs. And what pray tell was in that package? Well the order from JCREW that I placed on Tuesday (and I didnt even ask for speedy super expensive shipping) sitting there holding two fantastic items that I got for a steal (I mean we all know how ridiculous JCREW has gotten in price but after super sale plus 30% off I couldnt say no to these two items).

So hello holiday parties - watch out - because not only are these two items adorable and Im so excited about them - they are in sizes I havent been able to wear ... well we won't discuss how long. Lets just say its been awhile and I didnt get a personal trainer for nothin'.

Okay so my last final note of the evening is that Im sitting here glass of wine and the goose by myside, the Christmas tree lights on, and getting ready to enjoy a brand new Grey's Anatomy.

All smiles my dear bloggers - all smiles.

Life

Oh life - sometimes you give me more then I bargain for but that's okay - you know why? Because I have Prozac - ha ha - I'm just kidding! Its okay because you know when your down things have to go back up and that my friends is why no matter how many little or big twists come up you know that around the corner something wonderful is bound to happen. I can feel it ...something good is going to happen (non Prozac induced). :)

Hope everyone is having a great Thursday.

Somewhere Over the Rainbow

I heard this song today and for some reason the tears just welled up in my eyes...its the version by Israel Kamakawiwo'ole. I don't know why but this song just takes me to a place where the hurt is gone, anything is possible, and my heart and mind are at peace.



Someday I'll wish upon a star,
Wake up where the clouds are far behind me
Where trouble melts like lemon drops
High above the chimney top
that's where you'll find me
Oh, Somewhere over the rainbow way up high
And the dream that you dare to, why, oh why can't I?

Oh Bless

I am sitting here watching my dear roommate (who is getting ready to graduate in a couple of weeks) work on his graduation announcements. He is such a piece of work - he was so excited when he came home and UPS had dropped off the box with his invitations. Then he opened them up and his smile became a look of distraught as his picked through the box. Holding up return labels, the two different sizes of envelopes, and the announcement he just looked at me and said "What am I suppose to do with this?!" Oh boys.. okay step one - fold the invitation - step two place invitation inside small envelope....
He finishes all that to pull out little red squares of tissue paper and says "What is this for?!" Oh no ... my response "That's suppose to go inside the the small envelope." Whoops - forgot to mention that.

Today I needed to be reminded of these words...

Refuse to fall down.
If you cannot refuse to fall down,
refuse to stay down.
If you cannot refuse to stay down
lift your heart toward heaven
and like a hungry beggar,
ask that it be filled,
and it will be filled.
You may be pushed down.
You may be kept from rising.
But no one can keep you from lifting your heart toward heaven — only you.
It is in the middle of misery that so much becomes clear.
The one who says nothing good came of this,
is not yet listening.
- clarissa pinkola estés

The Glory of Gumby's

Thanksgiving has always been one of my favorite holidays. Wednesday Night is always a great night because everyone comes into town and goes out for a night of glorious drinking and socializing. Hands down always guaranteed to run into someone who you haven't seen in years and the reunion (via alcohol) makes it that much better. Wednesday all that happened - plus an extra bonus. We started the evening out at a local bar that has come to be my second home (I think I might be sounding like a alcoholic - but I do promise its the socializing) and followed it up by going to F at CV. Which by the way had a band playing - how weird is that - so no dirty dancing was possible - good thing for me because this girl has no rhythm. If only y'all could see me do the cupid shuffle - I promise you would pee in your pants from laughter at my misdirection steps. At F I ran into some high school friends who I haven't seen in quite awhile which was awesome. Love doing those double takes and trying to rationalize is that so and so...maybe...or is it...


Okay so the night ends - the lights come on - whoo wee turn the lights back off! Some people look better in the mood lighting. And we decide our party of four and go on home. We get all the way home when my dear roomie declares "I want Gumbys!" I of course grab my phone and dial the number (is it sad that after they had been closed for what 9-12 months I still have their number memorized?!) I call and the lovely Gumby's man explains to me that its Thanksgiving Eve and they are going home. What?! Sir you don't understand I love Gumbys and I was heartbroken when y'all were shut down for failing a sanitation grade - once - oh wait twice. He puts me on hold and says - Um can you be here in 10 mins and I will give you a FREE pokey sticks? Oh darling you bet your garlic crack butter I will be there in 10 mins. Everyone get in the car we are going to Gumbys!

All four us pile in the car to make our way to Gumbys...we arrive there in 11 mins. Now if I was to actually time this travel I would have to say it would most likely take us a little bit longer then 11mins....but whatever.

I get out of the car and three delightful hippies are standing outside smoking their cigs - oh dirty hippies - and the following conversation takes place:

ME: Hello boys! Who was answering the phones tonight?

Hippies: *dumb stare*

ME: I just talked to someone eleven mins ago in regards to Pokey Sticks?

Hippies: OMG - You actually showed up!

Me: Honey - you say pokey sticks and this girl comes a running ... of course I showed up!

Hippies: Okay well just hang on one second and I will go get you your Pokey Sticks

ME: Im so excited!

One Hippie: You know you could have driven to Chapel Hill - they are still open

ME: Yes - but their customer service is not up to par with y'alls and I wouldn't settle for anything less.

At this time Hippie #2 comes out with a DAMN IT SIZE POKEY STICKS ! Hands it to me and says Enjoy!

ME: Oh gracious - THANK YOU THANK YOU - Give me a hug you just made my favorite night of the year that much better!

Hippie #2: *Clearly feeling awkward hugs me*

ME: *Skip away in delight with my FREE pokey sticks*

E-Cards

This would be the E-card I received from my roomie this morning...oh how true it is. I do have a problem with facebook. Lucky for all those strangers out there I have been on probation from facebooking for the past two weeks - and really if you meet someone while playing flipcup I do believe it is kosher to ask them to be your friend on facebook. I do recommend clicking your mouse on over to the e-card site - they have some hysterical e-cards to send to friends for free!

Pav and the Goose Hit the Road

Today - once I get off of work - I will be packing up the car and Lucy and I will be hitting the road to go see this fabulous couple.

That's right - they are back!

In other NC News this will be taking place today :

LET'S GO WOLFPACK!

Thinking ...

Im headed off to nursing school in January - I've been out of college for 2 years and I am quite excited about this life change especially considering some other life changes I have been going through (one of them -I am now single for the first time in years - my point nothing is holding me back). Anyways I was playing around on google this morning and I have been really toying with the idea of doing something with really meaningful with my life once I graduate from nursing school. Okay where is she going with this? Well after I graduated from college (round 1) I went to Kenya on a medical mission trip and loved it. Now Im thinking after round 2 perhaps I can do something such as ...

Doctors without Boarders ...or Red Cross International ... I dont know ... like I said Im toying with these ideas and I have some time before any decisions are made. Regardless if Goose and I dont end up Sri Lanka - perhaps I can do the travel nursing gig for a bit. Travel nurses make fantastic money and basically are placed all around the United States for 6-8 week periods. Great way to see the country and be paid for it.
Anyone's thoughts on my life?

Bad Blogger Award

I'll be back soon - I promise ...life has been anything but slow lately and I'm just trying to hang in there. Goose and I send our love to everyone! :)





PS - WE GET TO SEE ALLISON AND WILL THIS WEEKEND IN WINSTON - THATS RIGHT PAV AND GOOSE TAKE ON WINSTON. WHOOT WHOOT.

Photo Shoot!

A couple of weekends ago I made Lucy have a photo shoot on the front steps ...

Kickball

Here are some and by some I mean two pictures of our kickball game on Wednesday. We are headed off to the tournament on Monday - wish us luck!

Here are two of my awesome teammates - Peaches and Molly ... they kick butt in the outfield


Here's me looking way hot in my kickball outfit - since playing in a scarf we have won the last 5 games - this is may after catching a line drive ball. Apparently my new name is Pav the Vaccum Cleaner. Sweet. What an awesome nickname. haha - not at all!

I Need Your Help...

The roomies and I are putting together a Christmas Card this year to send out. Now I have the idea of what I want the card to say and the picture but I need to find somewhere to do this. Do y'all know of any websites that you can create your own card? At a reasonable price? Please help!

Thanks!

Boo Yall !

Happy Halloween Yall - Hope everyone has something fun in store for them tonight. Im off to find my Dr McDreamy or McSteamy at a Halloween Party tonight...haha Thats right Im going to be a Greys Anatomy cast member. Dont judge - its easy and comfortable and I work at hospital - I know no imagination etc. Wait for the pictures - I assure yall it will be fantastic. haha. I think Im trying to convince myself in this post.

Shout out to my roomie and my date this weekend - Big D is taking me to a hitching party. whoot whoot






see I do mention you in my blog - xoxo

Just noticed something - is my header all out of wack? I just noticed this on my computer at home but at work it all fits fine. If you could please let me know - most appreciated ... I dont want yall clicking on over here to be greeted by a messed up header.

My Obessions of the Week

Taylor Swifts song - Love Story ... I just heart this girl.

and the roomie just introduced me to Beyonce's new song - If I were a Boy ... sing it girl!

The Fair!

The NC State Fair (as stated earlier in one of my posts) is one of my favorite events. I love it! This year the fair was not nearly as crowded as years past - but that was fine by me - I could get to the food stands easier! The roomie and I bundled up and headed out to see what fantastic mullets and redneck individuals we could find.

To begin the evening we visited John the Greek's stand where we split a gyro. Umm - delicious! It was so good...as you can see -

Oh yummy....

However you need to have something sweet to follow that delicious dinner with -

DEEP FRIED PECAN PIE! Let me tell yall this is one of the best things I have ever eaten. Im a big fan of the deep fried snickers but this was the new thing to try at the Fair this year so of course I had to try it. Soooo goood.

After finishing that off we decided to walk around the fair and check out all the animals. Another one of my favorite things to do. We also saw the biggest pumpkin and watermelon and sweet taters. Dragging the roomie around to all the vendors and animals it was time to suck it up and ride some rides. I believe they were fun however the whole time I was praying out loud and/or screaming with my eyes shut.

The view from our cage - or the rides name The Zipper.

The roomie in the cage - she was having a delightful time while I was not.

Once the roomie had her fill of rides we decided to eat some more (of course!) French fries from Al's French Fry Stand and Ham Biscuits from the Church were definitely in order. So yummy. After feeling like complete heifers we called it night but not before we watch the fireworks.

Holiday Travels

I am super excited to announce that C+O will be coming home for Christmas and not only will she be coming home - but M is joining her! I can not tell yall how excited I am about this because not only are they coming home for Christmas but we get to go on a road trip. We are headed to Ocracoke Island but will be making a few pitstops on the way down and back. C hasnt been to the beach in umm something like 6 years at least ..okay maybe not that long - but it is such a sin that she hasnt seen the beautiful Atlantic Ocean in quite awhile. Even if it will be um 60 degrees outside we still get to go and put our feet in the sand and run around in the salt air. Pictured below are my two yoga lovin' gals....

This is the route we will be taking .... Mary Sue the Subaroo is so excited - she loves the ferry.
Anywhos C and I have been friends for umm years - we met in the 6th grade and have just loved one another ever since! Though the distance might be far we have still kept up with one another. When we were in college we drove cross country - I think that was one of the best roadtrips I have ever been on - to Boulder, CO to bring C back to school. It was my first time out west and I have been back every summer. Love Love Love Boulder. Needless to say I am pretty excited that we will be able to do this roadtrip because C does not get home very often and when she is here the family does want to spend time with her. Whatever that is all about. haha. Anywhos M will be coming home with her and I cant wait to hit the road with these two.

St Theresa's Prayer

This was sent to me via email from Allison and I just wanted to pass it along to yall!


St. Theresa's Prayer:
May today there be peace within. May you trust God that you are exactly where you are meant to be. May you not forget the infinite possibilities that are born of faith. May you use those gifts that you have received, and pass on the love that has been given to you. May you be content knowing you are a child of God. Let this presence settle into your bones, and allow your soul the freedom to sing, dance, praise and love.It is there for each and every one of us.

Whats Your Karaoke Song

Thanks Well I do Declare!
This is funny stuff!

Your Karaoke Theme Song is "I'm Too Sexy"

You're a total goof ball and a bit of a nut job. You don't take yourself seriously at all.And while you may not be the greatest singer, you're the first to volunteer for karaoke.You have a wild and unpredictable sense of humor that always gets people cracking up.Irreverent and rebellious, your humor knows no bounds or limits. You enjoy shocking people.

You might also sing: "Like a Virgin," "Ice Ice Baby," and "Hey Ya!"Stay away from people who sing: "Sweet Home Alabama"

Whats Your Karaoke Song

Getting Better

Third game for kickball was last night and are you ready for this ... I ran around all of the bases and scored a run! I also was able to improve my catching skills on 3rd base. I was moved from 2nd to 3rd because I talk to much to the other girls - now I have to be separated by the guys.


The roomie and I joined some of our fellow team members after the game for a couple of drinks at PR. We had a great time with the guys.

On another note ...it is that time of year again - my favorite:

THE STATE FAIR!

The fair is hands down one of my favorite things about fall. When I was younger I used to compete in the horse show part of the state fair and loved it! Now I enjoy going to the Village of Yesteryear, milking the cows, checking out the GIANT produce, seeing all the farm animals and of course EATING! What is your favorite thing to eat at the fair?

Mine?

Ham Biscuit, Corn, deep fried candy bar (do not judge), giant turkey leg, sausage and peppers, french fries.... yup Im a fatty.

Lake Gaston

This past weekend we stayed at Alan Jackson's house .... j/k! However the house we stayed in was BEAUTIFUL. The eight/at one point nine of us all bunked up and had a fabulous weekend. The weekend was filled with many laughs, sweatpants, cold swims, delicious food, card games, football, fishing and of course some firefly. We all had a blast - so much we didnt get back home till 8:00pm on Sunday night. It was an amazing fall weekend, could not have asked for better weather. Honestly, it was just what I needed to recharge my batteries and my emotions. Sometimes you need a little r&r...

**************

Tonight was our second kickball game and we .......lost! Again! Oh well - that is quite alright because once again all we did was laugh and have a blast. Our little group is just a bunch of hooligans running around trying to catch a flying red ball. This week I made it to 2nd base and I caught a ball. Whoot whoot!

Its 5:00 Somewhere

and that somewhere is Lake Gaston!

Off to find some peace of mind and a drink or two on the lake....


see yall on Sunday and have a great weekend



PS - I promise to have some fantastic photos of kickball and the lake for you guys.

A Success!

Kickball game last night was a success indeed! Though we lost : 1-5 ..we all had a blast. The whole group of us could not stop laughing. I played 2nd base - which apparently gets some action because balls were flying all around me. One of the other team members slid - head first! - into 2nd. I just turned to her ball in hand and said "Sweetie - this is kickball however very impressed by your dedication." In the 3,4, or maybe 5th inning? I have no idea ... anyways the ball came flying in air towards me and I caught it! AND I got one of the other players out! Oh thats right - double play. It was the highlight of my life.
When I returned to the dugout one of my fellow team members (who is smokin' hot) gave me high while I was saying "Kickball is my calling! I am amazing!" He replied "Umm..I wouldn't quit your day job yet - all the other balls have been flying past you all night! However that last play was definitely really good" haha - okay well I mean I think my career just hit its turning point (duh) - you know?! haha. Ahh good times!

This afternoon I had to take Ms Goose to the Vet for her yearly. Apparently having things anywhere near her rear is out of the question because home dog was hollering like none other. I have never heard yelp before and I felt so bad! They even had to take her out of the exam room to see if they could take her temp and do the fecal exam. No such luck - she wasn't having any of it. That's okay - because now Mommy gets to pick up her poop tomorrow morning and bring it to the vet! Thanks Goose! :) After being traumatized by that ordeal, Lucy received her yearly vaccines and received an A+ check up. Looking good Ms Goose.

Okay must go - off to the personal trainer.

This weekend: Lake Gaston!

Breathing

Breathing...

Some days I have to remind myself the Lord never gives us more then we can handle. So when I feel overwhelmed with emotion - anger, grief, the why would they hurt me? etc. - I take a couple of deep breathes and I start to pray.


Some days I do a lot of praying.




Today is one of those days.

ITS:

KICKBALL WEDNESDAY!

FIRST GAME TONIGHT @ 8:00PM !

oh lalala - I got the job! wahoo!

JOB INTERVIEW

Going for a job interview this afternoon. I needed to get a part time job because coming up in January I will be in school full time. ANYWAYS - wish me luck!

Inspiration

Do you ever feel like you can do anything? Today I was hit again with the notion / inspiration of wanting to write a book. I know - I can barely spell let alone I have the worse grammar of an native English speaking child. However, for some reason I want to write a book. Perhaps something loosely based on my life with the twist of something much more fantastic.

That's all. Thanks for stopping by...

Life is Like a Tub of Peanut Butter ...

...sometimes is smooth running and other times it can be a bit sticky.

This weekend was a whirlwind of events. Friday night I babysat for one of my coworkers. She has an adorable 6 year old who is just full of himself. So cute - it almost made me want one - almost. Then I met up the roomies to grab a drink and do some dancing at Felsons. My thighs were a bit ouchy the next morning. However I still went and worked out with the personal trainer where I had my behind handed to me. I love it - but at the same time I am just praying for the torture to end.
I decided to skip out on the State game and took my little brother shopping for homecoming. He is such a boy. I asked him if he was planning on asking the girl he is taking to be his girlfriend - since he is either texting or talking to her 24/7. He told me he was going to wait and see how the dance goes before he does anything. Okay right...
Saturday I had a lovely dinner at The Point. Um yummy yummy yummy - love going there. The waiter was hot hot hot and by the end of dinner he ended up giving us free shots. What a great way to end one's meal. From there the night gets a bit hazy and by hazy ... I didnt end up in bed till 4:00 am.
Sunday I was up and getting ready for a 5k. It was to support Students Against Drinking and Driving and was put on by my highschool. Lets just say I did not exactly run the best that I could have. I had a terrible headache and felt awful ... what a great example I am. Anyways I spent the rest of the day in bed. And that my dear blog friends sums up my life for the past 48 hrs.

She did it again - rainbows done.

Okay - really Lucy? really? I even took you on a run this morning! Open the blinds so you can watch the animals outside and left the news on for you so you can see the recap of the debates! What more do you want?! GRRRR! Ah I so PO'd right now.

In the Dog House

So today when I got home from work Miss Lucy (im not going to call her by her pet name because she is in trouble) had gone number 1 in my roomies bedroom. Now - first off she knows where the bathroom is for animals with four legs - outside. Second she has been getting into everything lately. She ate a pair of my shoes while I was at Church on Sunday - which is way unfair because I come home all filled with grace and there is no way I can start beating her in that kind of mood.
Needless to say I am bad mother. As I sit here complaining about my companion, I know she wouldnt do this if she wasnt bored. I have been bad about taking her on a walk in morning and that would help so much. Also she likes it when the TV is on ..especially animal planet. She definitely minds her manners when she is getting attention!
Okay enough about that .. no more offering my dog up for adoption on facebook. I need to get myself organize and take better care of her!

Lets Go Wolfpack!

Tonight you can find me in the parking lot of Carter Finley with a cold beverage in one hand and a bean bag for corn hole in the other! State vs South Florida - Lets go Wolfpack!

Windy Windy

Its very windy and very cold and very fall-esk today. And I must say I like it - I like it alot.
It might be time to get the pumpkins and mums from the Farmers Market.

or

I'm just going to shop online for things I think I need but really dont but its been 6 months since I have worn it so I've forgotten. :)




Oh - I got my schedule for kickball today! Wahoo - Practice is on Sunday and our first game is on Wednesday. So excited.

Changing Templates Like Its My Underwear*

Okay I know - Ive changed my template two maybe three times in the past couple of weeks. However I needed something more fall friendly. And I'm thinking we might be good ... well until Christmas that is.



*Also I change my underwear on a very daily basis

Fall are you there?

This morning temps were a bit chilly for a skirt and blouse (which I sported to work this morning) however I cant help but be excited because that means its almost fall! Pumpkins, sweaters, spiced beer (delicious!) and eating the game that my guy friends kill (gracious that sounds so redneck- oh well I love some venison.)

Can not wait to get off of work ..making a quick pit stop to apply for a job! and then its off to the lake with miss goose for some exercise and in her case sniffing and pulling in every direction to make a new friend. I think we need to work on her leash skills they are lacking big time.

Oh Charleston ...

I have fallen in love with this wonderful town yet again. The heritage, the homes, the food, the people, the downtown area and nightlife. Love Love Love it!

I have been in the same town since I was eight and do not get me wrong I love every aspect of it - however I can help but think perhaps I need a change if anything maybe just for a little bit. So I have been toying to say the least about moving there after nursing school. We shall see what the future holds, right?

As for this weekend - I had a blast visiting the big brother. We went out Friday night to Reds, met up with some of the brothers friends and made some while dancing the night away! Saturday while recovering from Friday night's festivities we watched the ECU VS STATE game - can we say GO WOLFPACK!

Saturday night we headed to the Charleston Riverdogs Beer Festival - oh gracious what a fun time this lady had. Running around from vendor to vendor with my cup anxiously awaiting the next beer.

We ended the night by eating some delicious barbecue - which was a mustard base and I have to say I enjoyed very much. (perhaps because of all beer, who knows?)

Sunday morning the big brother and I head to Page's Okra Grill - the greatest establishment ever for southern cooking. I had the shrimp and grits and let me tell y'all - it was delicious. One I should not have finished the whole bowl but I did anyways :)

After saying my farewells to the brother and roommate I got on the road for the 4 hour drive home. All in all - awesome weekend!

Getting Involved and Getting Out There

Since my recent singleness I have been trying to reconnect with old friends and get back out there on the social scene. Thank goodness being shy has never been a problem for me and I think I could carry on a conversation with a wall. Anyways enough about me and my weird self ...

The roomie (who I am thinking of name to refer to her as so yall can know the difference between the two of them) and I have decided to join a Kickball team. I found the team on craigs list, it is a coed team and they were in desperate need for some girls - umm perfect?! Our team name is "Picked Last." How wonderful/awesome is that? The girl that is heading up the team is designing a cute tshirt with the team name on the front and our nickname on the back. Do not distress my fellow blog readers I will post a picture of my kickball uniform as soon as I get the tshirt. I am so excited. We play either every M, W or T,Th. The games begin the last week in September so the count down has begun!

As for this weekend I am headed to Charleston. I cannot cannot wait to get there! I am visiting my older brother ... lots of good times (drinking) and beach time await me!

OR Bound

Today was a day I needed ... we all have one of those. When things are going alright and you just need to do something to give you that boost of encouragement or that drive that makes you feel - "Yes! Yes this is what I want to do!" Here is how mine happened.

Last week during my yearly evaluation (which went very well - thank goodness :) ) my manager asked me if there was anything I wanted to do before leaving in January to head off to Nursing School. I replied - I really want to spend the day in the O.R. I have been pack in the OR lots of times but never had the opportunity to observe surgeries because I was needed in the Pharmacy. So my opportunity came today.

I woke up at 5:30 to be at the hospital and ready to go at 6:30. I was so excited I could barely eat my breakfast. One of my favorite OR nurses agreed last week to let me be her shadow and she was wonderful. It was fascinating to be on the other side of the doors finally. Dr P and Dr S were the surgeons I was observing and they were a hoot. Dr P told me to just ask any questions I might have while he was poking and prodding and cutting away into this patients stomach and every time I did he would reply - "You are jumping ahead!" or "We'll I would tell you but then Dr S would have to kill you." Lovely. haha. They made me feel completely relaxed - even when they pulled the cecum out from the belly button! (I know for some of you you are gagging right now)
The next surgery was a lap cholo - gallbladder removal. Dr C let me hold the gallbladder when he finally pulled it out of yes the belly button! It was so cool - what a neat little organ!
By this time it was about 12:00 and I was hungry. I headed to lunch for a 30 min break and was back in the OR by 12:30 ready for the next surgery.
The last two surgeries were great..but the focus was on a different part of the body. The first one was repairing a hole in the ear canal and taking a skin graft to do so. The second surgery was a craniotomy and no Dr McDreamy was not there! Unfortunately....but I did get to see the brain! It was a very bloody site but nonetheless very neat.
My day ended at about 4:30 ... so it was a long 10 hr day but so worth it. I felt so pumped up leaving the hospital. I am just obsessed with surgery. It is one of the most amazing things I have ever witnessed and I can not wait until I have my nursing degree and I can be back there every day.

Weekend Highlights

Hello Everyone!

Here is nice rundown of this weekend ...

Friday afternoon I was greeted by a lovely mixed drink that my roomie made for me. Now Im not really one to start drinking as soon as I get off of work but hey it was 5:00 and every once in awhile I say - Why not?

We proceeded to go to the Mellow Mushroom where I met up with Ms B, Magnolias and Juleps, and the neighbors. The group split up after dinner and the roommate and I headed out for some karaoke. I know, I know - seriously? But let me tell you what I had a blast. Knowing first off I would never see those people again and two just letting go of insecurities and getting up there and singing was the greatest. I sang "Twist and Shout" a old favorite of mine from Ferris Bueller's Day Off.

Saturday morning I went and worked out with the personal trainer for 3 hours - yes thats right 3 hours. I was exhausted when I got home but I am improving so much! It is rewarding to finally start seeing a difference (small as it might be). I did a little shopping that afternoon in Cameron Village (bought a fantastic dress for a steal!). That evening the roomie and I headed downtown to participate in Light the Night. What is Light the Night you might ask well ...

For the ninth year, Light The Night will return to the Bicentennial Plaza in the heart of downtown Raleigh on Saturday, Sept. 13, 2008. Cancer survivors and supporters will carry illuminated balloons through historic downtown Raleigh as they walk to further the Society's mission to cure leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin's disease and myeloma and improve the quality of life of patients and their families.

After walking two miles (how we did that after 3 hour workout Im not sure) we came home and got ready to go out. We ended up at the Point with Ms B and great friend of mine B.T. I have not seen him since junior year of college so we had some catching up to do. Needless to say we were there till the bar closed!

Sunday I went to church ...Im trying to find a permanent church home that is close to where I live. Following church I went on a lunch date and came home to relax. The roommate and I made a fantastic homemade dinner - turkey loaf and mashed potatoes. We were joined by one of our neighbors who just got back in town from Wake Forest.

Okay off to bed for me - I have to be at the hospital at 6:30 in the morning because I get to scrub in for surgeries all day! Who is excited - oh yes thats me! Getting paid to watch surgery all day equals one happy Pav. :)

Here's a picture of me and the roomie from Light the Night:

My Prayer

Refuse to fall down.
If you cannot refuse to fall down,
refuse to stay down.
If you cannot refuse to stay down
lift your heart toward heaven
and like a hungry beggar,
ask that it be filled,
and it will be filled.
You may be pushed down.
You may be kept from rising.
But no one can keep you from lifting your heart toward heaven — only you.
It is in the middle of misery thatso much becomes clear.
The one who says nothing good came of this,
is not yet listening.

- clarissa pinkola estés



Thank you C+O :)

Danny Boy

Danny was my horse for five awesome years. We bought him my Junior Year of high school and I kept him up until my senior year. We competed in the hunter division all over the state of North Carolina and even traveled to Tennessee. I started in the Children's Hunters and we went stayed together in the Adult Division. I loved loved loved that horse. If you could have a soul mate in an animal - Danny would be mine. I swear that horse knew what I was thinking and I felt the same about him. I cried for a month after we sold him and felt like a part of me was taken away. I felt like I had lost my identity. What was I to do after classes and on the weekends if I didnt have to hurry out to the barn?

I found out this evening that Danny has passed away. Thankfully he went quickly and was not in much pain. I dont know what else to say about him except he was always the gentleman. In the time we spent together (which was alot over those five years) he always took care of me and helped me grow so much. So here is to my Danny Boy... rest in peace.

Wide Open Weekend

This weekend was one of the best I have had in long time. It started out on Friday night by going to see my personal trainer and working out some aggression. Never a bad thing. Then the neighbors who live down the hill from me decided to have a Hurricane Party - so much fun. We played beer pong and drank wine while we awaited Hanna's arrival. How rare is it that you actually enjoy your neighbors - let along hang out with them?

Saturday I was going to go to the state game ...however at the last minute some friends invited me down to Raleigh Wide Open. Raleigh Wide Open happens every year, they shut down Fayetteville Street and vendors set up food and trinkets for people to purchase. There is live music and this year the new convention was open for everyone to come and take a peak.

After walking around Fayetteville street we decided to go grab some food at a local bar and head off to see Chairmen. However the group decided to go to Blue Martini instead and hang out on Glenwood. I was a little sad about not dancing however we didn't stay long at Blue Martini before headed out to go dancing at a local bar. So much fun! I forgot how much I enjoy going dancing even though I am sooo bad. Nothing better then a night out with a bunch of friends!


Now if only I had the same kind of energy as last night to write this paper ....

Football and Shagging and Hanna

Soo..State plays at home this Saturday against William and Mary. The roomie and I are going to be attendance - anyone else headed out there? Most likely I will be showing up in my fashionable rain boots since Hanna is coming our way tonight! So in true Pav fashion I have a backup plan - General Johnson and CoftheB are coming to play. The neighbors are headed out there so once tailgating is over we might be going out to Lincoln Theatre and shag the night away. Love Love the beach music.

PS Last night was much fun! Love meeting new people while enjoying some great drinks. We went to Tylers Tavern which is a great place because they have a ton of fun beers on tap. And yummy food.

Thursday Night Football and some

Well tonight the roomie and I are headed over to some new guy friends house to watch The Giants play tonight. Now - I know ladies
the Giants ? ! - I love them ..grew up watching them and they won the Superbowl (whoop whoop)

Now onto a bit more sensitive subject - for those of you who are close to me know of my recent life events ...I just want to say thank you thank you to everyone for your love. It is such a blessing to have such wonderful friends by your side.
You know the best part of this is that there is a reason for everything - God has a plan and if you have to take faith in knowing that there is a bigger plan for you.

Okay well enough about that ... I need to finish up some homework and get ready for the football game!

Ive got the blues...

Pav has the blues ... its been a rough couple of days since getting back down south from the big apple. Ah well this will pass in time. Thankfully wonderful girlfriends have been surrounding me! Love to you all.

We are Back!

Pictures and such to follow once all of this unpacking and laundry and cleaning are complete. Cant wait to share - New York was fabulous as always.

Walk of Shame Commercial - the roomie and i were watching the best commercial ever and this one came up.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MpIgvTxSgmk


This makes me chuckle.

Lets play a guessing game...

So the bf and I are headed out of town on Wednesday for our last summer getaway ... who would like to guess where we are headed?

Here are some hints ;)

1) My favorite baseball team plays here (knowing I'm not from the south - lets think north)

2) Its one the most fabulous cities in the United States

3) Several of my favorite TV shows - Seinfeld and Sex and the City took place here

4) If you cant guess it by now ...well you are a slower blonde than I

We are headed....drum roll please....

NEW YORK!

Back Where I Come From ....

Saturday night was a blast! We (the bf, the roomies, and their significant others) ended up heading out to tailgate with a bunch of our neighbors who I have started to get to know over the past couple of months. We had a great time getting to know one another. We drank, ate yummy turkey burgers, and played corn hole. We even met up with some of the White Oak boys. Here are some pictures from Saturday night.














Our Group Tailgating















Kenny Chesney!

One two many cocktails for me ....

The roomie and White Oak Boys

WHEN THE SUN GOES DOWN....

SATURDAY NIGHT! CANT WAIT!

Oh Gracious

So I started an online course on Monday and its kicking my behind. It wouldnt be so bad if I wasnt already taking one class in the evenings along with working full-time job but of course thats not the case. Ive never taken anything online before and its so weird ..for class participation you are suppose to reply to others remarks on blackboard. And for the first day we were to put who are, etc. and a bunch of the girls are all in my nursing program - very exciting - however I wont meet these ladies till January. So I will just have post away to their responses and hope when Jan. rolls around we will be able to reconnect.

Is it 4:30 yet?

I am counting down the hours today till work is over! Not that this week was so bad ... but lots of fun things going this weekend such as...

• pedicure after work (im in need real bad)
• a little shopping adventure (jcrew 30% off - say what?!)
• on Saturday work out in the AM with the personal trainer
• party at White Oak featuring the : http://oakcitysmoke.blogspot.com/ Crew cooking some delicious food!
• Sunday - a day of projects for work and school

Hope everyone has a great weekend!

The Equestrian Stud is Back

After saying that he was retiring from the Olympics in 2000 ... he decided to come back and show the world what a bad ass he really is. Representing New Zealand, Mark Todd is competing in 3 Day Eventing and let me just say he makes those 4'5" fences look like cross rails.

My New Olympic Crush

Here he is Micheal Phelps

Oh yes ... Mr Phelps you are sooo hot. I had to share - this boy had caused me to loose more sleep in the past 72 hours on account of staying up to watch him swim. I dont even like swimming but seeing him fly down those lanes ..well its not so boring anymore.

The Big CO!

So finally Ive decided to post some pictures from our trip out West. It was simply put AMAZING! I love Boulder and fell in love with some new places as well. However I would move to Boulder in a heart beat - so watch out Catherine, Mandy, Oliver, Allison and Will - you might have a new neighbors! :)

This is me at Red Rocks! We went to see The Steve Miller Band play and yes they are still alive.

Allison and I getting our picture taken after hiking up some absurb hill that was near where we were camping at Eleven Mile. John wanted to see the mountains...

This picture is of the girls while we were camping - we are such hotties.

We are such hikers... Pretty Mountains!