tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-81120618501229716122023-12-12T09:08:47.890-06:00ZeldaRayRaychellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11489173940745836974noreply@blogger.comBlogger32125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8112061850122971612.post-66630242347623747772009-02-26T11:07:00.004-06:002009-02-26T11:14:58.629-06:00Over IM Just Now<strong>Jonathan:</strong> I just caught Lola chewing up your hair holder - that black one that goes across your whole head<br /><br /><strong>Me:</strong> Doh<br /><br /><strong>Jonathan:</strong> sorry :(<br /><br /><strong>Me:</strong> it's called a headband :) hehe<br /><br /><strong>Jonathan:</strong> ah yes!<br /><br /><strong>Me:</strong> haha...your hair holder<br /><br /><strong>Jonathan:</strong> I like hair holder betterRaychellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11489173940745836974noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8112061850122971612.post-61720640192665463482008-12-18T00:29:00.001-06:002008-12-18T00:29:00.969-06:00Year Old Cake...is totally disgusting! Seriously, who thought of this tradition of eating your wedding cake on your first anniversary?<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3238/3098972526_a461830496.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 500px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 375px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3238/3098972526_a461830496.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br />This box has taken up almost a whole shelf in our freezer for a year. Which is really obnoxious because our freezer isn't very large to begin with so each square inch of space is very valuable when you eat lots of frozen dinners like we do!<br /><br /><br /><br /><br />So, we didn't remember that we were supposed to eat it until after we got home from dinner. Silly us.<br /><br /><br /><br /><p><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3103/3098137337_a22958833f.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 414px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 500px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3103/3098137337_a22958833f.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />So, I got the cake out & obviously it was hard as a rock. You can see in the above picture, we were a little afraid of this cake. So Jonathan got a big ole bread knife & cut into the frozen block of cake.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3131/3098137365_c0e3f6f7fc.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 500px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 375px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3131/3098137365_c0e3f6f7fc.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Yum... appetizing huh? </p><br /><p>We defrosted the cake for a bit & then gathered up all our courage. We took the teeniest of bites. And unanimously decided that it was terrible.<br /><br /></p><br /><p><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3111/3098137397_8c4ed37713.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 500px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 375px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3111/3098137397_8c4ed37713.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Which is why the plate above still has cake on it! Along with pictures we documented the experience with my Flip. Check it:<br /></p><br /><object height="273" width="400"><param name="allowfullscreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><param name="movie" value="http://vimeo.com/moogaloop.swf?clip_id=2556449&server=vimeo.com&show_title=1&show_byline=1&show_portrait=0&color=00ADEF&fullscreen=1"><embed src="http://vimeo.com/moogaloop.swf?clip_id=2556449&server=vimeo.com&show_title=1&show_byline=1&show_portrait=0&color=00ADEF&fullscreen=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" allowscriptaccess="always" width="400" height="273"></embed></object><br /><a href="http://vimeo.com/2556449">Anniversary Cake</a> from <a href="http://vimeo.com/user506475">Raychelle G</a> on <a href="http://vimeo.com/">Vimeo</a>.Raychellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11489173940745836974noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8112061850122971612.post-90855272884723231182008-12-10T15:20:00.000-06:002008-12-10T15:23:16.405-06:00Snow!Yesterday the high was somewhere between 75 & 81 depending on where you were. Then around 11pm it was down to 34 & snowing! Well, what we call snow in TX...in reality it was probably ice. Still...LOOK!<div><br /></div><div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3190/3098923050_e8610d1902.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 500px; height: 333px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3190/3098923050_e8610d1902.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a></div><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3162/3098923204_dcefc973f3.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 500px; height: 333px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3162/3098923204_dcefc973f3.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3100/3098922998_b9e9bc82d6.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 333px; height: 500px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3100/3098922998_b9e9bc82d6.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3290/3098087869_7e581545b4.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 500px; height: 333px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3290/3098087869_7e581545b4.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a>Raychellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11489173940745836974noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8112061850122971612.post-77273256741259074332008-12-08T00:01:00.003-06:002008-12-08T00:01:01.237-06:00Happy 1st Anniversary To US!!!I love you honey! I'm still so excited that I get to spend the rest of my life with you.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/raychelle_lee/2234084254/" title="raychelle4x6-4577 by raychelle.lee, on Flickr"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 333px; height: 500px;" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2242/2234084254_3e38870ecc.jpg" width="333" height="500" alt="raychelle4x6-4577" /></a><br /><br />If you've got a spare 15 minutes check out our <a href="http://www.photodex.com/sharing/viewshow.html?fl=2931416&alb=0" target="_blank">wedding slide show</a>.<div><br /><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:x-small;">Photo & Slide Show by </span><a href="http://ridoutphotography.com/#" target="_blank"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:x-small;">Mark Ridout Photography</span></a></span></div></div>Raychellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11489173940745836974noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8112061850122971612.post-64757780580364136602008-12-06T12:00:00.000-06:002008-12-06T12:00:00.509-06:00Etsy Goodness<a href="http://etsy.com/" style="text-decoration: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><br /></span><img style="text-decoration: underline;display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; " src="http://team.etsy.com/images/downloads/buttons/WOLF125.jpg" /></a><br /><a href="http://www.etsy.com/" target="_0">Etsy</a>. I just can't get enough of it. I opened my own shop about a year and half ago. I tried to sell these beaded buckets that I made with my step mother.<div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/_hNrzzv4dBag/STmDui0bXaI/AAAAAAAAARk/LAiTJgf86oE/s1600-h/stuff+023.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/_hNrzzv4dBag/STmDui0bXaI/AAAAAAAAARk/LAiTJgf86oE/s320/stuff+023.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5276393274085170594" /></a><br />I think it's cute (in a kitschy sort of way) and these have made a fun gifts for family & friends. Eh, it didn't do so well. I didn't sell a single one. And a total of 5 people stopped by the shop. But, I'm not bitter...I'm still hooked on the Etsy goodness. </div><div><br /></div><div>In fact, with Etsy's help, I have already purchased 90% of this year's Christmas presents. We can all use a little help shopping for gifts this time of year. So, here are some of my favorite Esty shops this season. Go check them out!</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://ny-image2.etsy.com/il_430xN.46511714.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 430px; height: 429px;" src="http://ny-image2.etsy.com/il_430xN.46511714.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /></div><div><div><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5054639">Bedhead</a> is a local artist who makes awesome jewelry! I can't get enough of these nest necklaces. Plus, a portion of the shops proceeds are given to non-profit organizations at the end of every fiscal year. Cute & caring!</div><div><br /></div></div><div><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://ny-image2.etsy.com/il_430xN.47896054.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 430px; height: 430px;" src="http://ny-image2.etsy.com/il_430xN.47896054.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5362250">Modernbird </a>makes beautiful silver jewelry. My favorites are her African Animals (like little baby Ellie above) and pretty much all of the Bird collection. </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://ny-image0.etsy.com/il_430xN.47242104.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 430px; height: 487px;" src="http://ny-image0.etsy.com/il_430xN.47242104.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5577650">Gemini Studio Art</a> by Stephen Fowler is a shop with tons of great art to choose from. My favorite are his typography collages like the one above. </div><div><br /></div><div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://ny-image3.etsy.com/il_430xN.47799287.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 430px; height: 239px;" src="http://ny-image3.etsy.com/il_430xN.47799287.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5375478">Boxnmor</a> creates really interesting items out of wood. I wanted to get this wine bottle holder but I couldn't decide on who to give it to so I bought a few little stocking stuffer things instead.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://ny-image1.etsy.com/il_430xN.47194769.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 430px; height: 321px;" src="http://ny-image1.etsy.com/il_430xN.47194769.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><div><br /></div><div>There were no less than 10 signs I wanted to purchase from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5738004">Nese's Decor</a>. I won't mention which one I went with since too many people I know read this, but it's awesome...</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://ny-image3.etsy.com/il_430xN.38591803.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 430px; height: 396px;" src="http://ny-image3.etsy.com/il_430xN.38591803.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5622036">Julie Boyles</a> creates fabulous handmade journals. Looking at the beauties in her shop makes me want to pick up journaling again.</div><div><br /></div><div>This list is by no mean exhaustive of all my favorite shops, but I couldn't help but share some of my new favorites.</div><div><br /></div><div>I'm sure you're way more tech savvy than me & you're already on top of the Etsy goodness. But just in case you're not, if you want even more options Etsy has some AMAZING <a href="http://www.etsy.com/buy.php">shopping tools</a>. My favorites are <a href="http://www.etsy.com/gift-guides/">Gift Guides</a>, <a href="http://www.etsy.com/pounce.php">Pounce</a>, & <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop_local.php">Shop Local</a>. </div><div><br /></div><div>Go shop handmade! It's fun!</div></div>Raychellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11489173940745836974noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8112061850122971612.post-24449039999124935052008-12-04T12:22:00.005-06:002010-06-22T19:01:36.496-05:00A special dayTwo years ago today on a cold rainy night in Paris....<div><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm1.static.flickr.com/139/320109108_8c86346ba3.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 500px; height: 375px;" src="http://farm1.static.flickr.com/139/320109108_8c86346ba3.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><div><br /></div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm1.static.flickr.com/125/320110432_baf2a7f7b6.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 375px; height: 500px;" src="http://farm1.static.flickr.com/125/320110432_baf2a7f7b6.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a>Raychellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11489173940745836974noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8112061850122971612.post-64487323731995727522008-10-16T13:10:00.002-05:002008-10-16T13:17:56.204-05:00Yeah well, that’s just, ya know, like your opinion man<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://grfx.cstv.com/schools/tex/graphics/fb-wallpaper/101108_ou/wp_fb_golden_hat_1280.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px;" src="http://grfx.cstv.com/schools/tex/graphics/fb-wallpaper/101108_ou/wp_fb_golden_hat_1280.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br />After such an amazing win last week, Jonathan & I decided that we HAD to go to the Missouri game this weekend. We have a couple friends coming in town and we were somehow able to find someone selling 4 tickets...so not only are we going to be able to all sit together, the price also included a parking pass, score!<div><br /></div><div>Going to a Texas game is always fun. Tailgating before the game...almost as much fun! I'm really looking forward to heading out to the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">pre</span>-<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">game</span> tailgate. And the game isn't until 7pm. So, that's a whole day of congregating with old friends I haven't seen since last year's tailgate, eating <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">queso</span> from a giant crock pot, drinking Miller Lite from a keg, hanging out in the shade of the big ole UT themed bus:</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/_hNrzzv4dBag/SPeDeE8u5hI/AAAAAAAAANE/bh9e5nrqaec/s1600-h/horns+bus.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/_hNrzzv4dBag/SPeDeE8u5hI/AAAAAAAAANE/bh9e5nrqaec/s400/horns+bus.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5257815642726131218" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-size:10px;"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Hehe</span>! I "borrowed" a friends picture on <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">facebook</span>... as you can tell, I'm an expert at <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Photoshop</span>!</span><br /></div></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>It's gonna be an all out good time! Texas Texas <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Yee</span> Haw!</div><div><br /></div><div>Will you be tailgating this weekend?</div><div><br /></div>Raychellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11489173940745836974noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8112061850122971612.post-6207341475860552692008-10-13T13:51:00.001-05:002008-12-08T13:49:19.985-06:00We're #1!!After Texas' big win over OU on Saturday...which OMG, did you see that game? it was the best game EVER! Texas was seriously worrying me during the first half...and then the first possession of the second half...holy moly I was nervous. But then...then! We kicked some major butt! Shipley with his amazing return...Ogbannaya with his funny name, serious skills. We just shined! Texas, Texas Yee Haw!!<div><br /></div><div>So yeah, after the big win...we're ranked #1 in both polls! Go Texas! Unfortunately, I was too busy screaming at the TV & high five-ing Jonathan to get really good picks but you can see what our early afternoon consisted of:</div><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/_hNrzzv4dBag/SPOP535F6HI/AAAAAAAAAMs/P0zwrM9GCsQ/s1600-h/IMG00047.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/_hNrzzv4dBag/SPOP535F6HI/AAAAAAAAAMs/P0zwrM9GCsQ/s320/IMG00047.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5256703414490228850" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/_hNrzzv4dBag/SPOP535F6HI/AAAAAAAAAMs/P0zwrM9GCsQ/s1600-h/IMG00047.jpg" style="text-decoration: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:x-small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">A few whiskey & cokes</span></span></span> </a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/_hNrzzv4dBag/SPOP6NECD-I/AAAAAAAAAM0/op5hGe6QlGA/s1600-h/IMG00048.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/_hNrzzv4dBag/SPOP6NECD-I/AAAAAAAAAM0/op5hGe6QlGA/s320/IMG00048.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5256703420173258722" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:x-small;">A few delicious mimosas</span></span><br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Seriously we were so happy after the game, we didn't know what to do with ourselves. I headed over to hang out with some friends & watch some other Big 12 action...Tech vs. Nebraska. Then Jonathan joined us for some delicious Tex-Mex at our neighborhood Nuevo Leon. Yuummm... queso...</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />Since we were so incredibly full from Nuevo Leon, we all decided to burn some calories playing Rock Band 2. We made an awesome band called Full House. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Jonathan, aka "Uncle Jesse", was on guitar... he even gave his character a sweet mullet a la late 80s Uncle Jesse. <br /></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">My good friend Sal was "Uncle Joey" ... I was "Steph" on the mic & my gal E-Dub was "Deej"! It was hilarious! Unfortunately you can only have 4 band members so Danny & Michelle got left out... still, we rocked out.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Not sure I'm as big a fan of Rock Band 2. I've only done the on tour part & you're limited on what songs you can play. So far, there are quite a few I'm unfamiliar with. Jonathan & I have our own band, "Gigga What?", referencing our last name that has a lot of "G"s in it... so hopefully we can keep rockin out & get to play more songs.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">It's really the only video game I'll play. Do you play Rock Band? Have you tried the new one? Do you like it more than I do?</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Happy Monday! Hook 'Em!!</div>Raychellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11489173940745836974noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8112061850122971612.post-45587949405072940532008-10-10T10:46:00.000-05:002008-10-10T10:51:16.918-05:00Hook 'Em Horns!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://grfx.cstv.com/schools/tex/graphics/fb-wallpaper/dkr_800x600.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px;" src="http://grfx.cstv.com/schools/tex/graphics/fb-wallpaper/dkr_800x600.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />I'm pretty sure I've failed to share with you my love for Texas Football. Well, now I'm here to tell you. I bleed burnt orange. Work has prevented me from attending a game this year. Which is extremely unusual. In college, I always had season tickets. Sitting in the student section at a UT game is the most fun. So much energy. <div><br /></div><div>Unfortunately, now that I'm off the parents payroll, I can't afford season tickets. But, it's really easy to find someone selling tickets if you just show up to the stadium. Walking around the tailgates is usually a good idea because there's always that one person who gets a little too tipsy to actually go to the game & they are more than happy to give you their ticket for a dirt cheap price...or usually even for free.</div><div><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm1.static.flickr.com/38/122860959_2ec5961631_o.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px;" src="http://farm1.static.flickr.com/38/122860959_2ec5961631_o.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" font-style: italic;font-size:x-small;">Image by <a href="http://flickr.com/photos/trentfrank/122860959/">aecela</a> via Flickr</span></div><div><br /></div><div>So this weekend is a HUGE game. The "Red River Rivalry" formally known before PCness took over everything as the "Red River Shootout". This game between Texas and OU is always held in Dallas at the Cotton Bowl. The game always happens during the Texas State Fair which is pretty sweet. You're always greeted by Big Tex & you can get roasted corn & funnel cakes...mmm...funnel cakes.</div><div><br /></div><div>Unfortunately Jonathan & I won't be going to Dallas this weekend. But, we'll be rooting on the Horns in our burnt orange gear from the comfort of our fabulous living room!</div><div><br /></div><div>I ♥ Colt McCoy! Hook 'Em Horns!!! Beat the Hell Outta OU!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://grfx.cstv.com/schools/tex/graphics/fb-wallpaper/100408_colo/wp_fb_100408_mccoy_1440.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px;" src="http://grfx.cstv.com/schools/tex/graphics/fb-wallpaper/100408_colo/wp_fb_100408_mccoy_1440.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /></div>Raychellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11489173940745836974noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8112061850122971612.post-54656586211848190722008-10-04T17:11:00.000-05:002008-10-04T17:12:02.501-05:00Austin City Limits Recap in Pictures<div style="FONT-SIZE: 10px; TEXT-ALIGN: center"><i><br /><br /><a href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3231/2908920824_c8cf2a53e9_b.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3231/2908920824_c8cf2a53e9_b.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /></i><div style="FONT-SIZE: 14px">Jonathan & I had a great time at the music festival last weekend. It's taken a while for me to get around to uploading all the photos and videos we took over the three day event... but here ya go... our ACL weekend in pictures: </div><i><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3024/2908918974_78a9b7cd5d_b.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3024/2908918974_78a9b7cd5d_b.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />ACL Barton Springs Entrance<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3193/2908919918_977983f810_b.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3193/2908919918_977983f810_b.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Vampire Weekend, our first show of the weekend<br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3199/2908074093_2118387035_o.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3199/2908074093_2118387035_o.jpg" border="0" /> </a><br />Ezra Koeing, lead singer of Vampire Weekend, getting his groove on with a little soft shoe action<br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3176/2908075005_2bb3831c11_b.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3176/2908075005_2bb3831c11_b.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />We spend a lot of time standing in line at the BAR<br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3083/2908921320_f9ff82729f_b.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3083/2908921320_f9ff82729f_b.jpg" border="0" /> </a><br />Hot Chip<br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3219/2908921718_2c7fc07ff0_b.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3219/2908921718_2c7fc07ff0_b.jpg" border="0" /> </a><br />Our "It's HOOOOOT" face<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3155/2908922982_70a4839515_b.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3155/2908922982_70a4839515_b.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Mmmmm...BIG ASS Heineken<br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3138/2908923392_000284d04f_b.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3138/2908923392_000284d04f_b.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Mmmm...BIG ASS Bud Light (how white trash is my drink?!...oh well... when in Rome...)<br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3058/2908922176_b7f774267c_o.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3058/2908922176_b7f774267c_o.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />CSS<br /><br /><br /><div style="MARGIN: 0px auto; WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px"> <object type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="400" height="300" data="http://www.flickr.com/apps/video/stewart.swf?v=60247" classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000"> <param name="flashvars" value="intl_lang=en-us&photo_secret=25345b49da&photo_id=2909094806"></param> <param name="movie" value="http://www.flickr.com/apps/video/stewart.swf?v=60247"></param> <param name="bgcolor" value="#000000"></param> <param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><embed type="application/x-shockwave-flash" src="http://www.flickr.com/apps/video/stewart.swf?v=60247" bgcolor="#000000" allowfullscreen="true" flashvars="intl_lang=en-us&photo_secret=25345b49da&photo_id=2909094806" height="300" width="400"></embed></object> </div><br />MGMT "Kids" Kinda shaky but I love how you get a feel for how much the crowd was loving it.<br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3072/2908078839_ec60eb5889_b.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3072/2908078839_ec60eb5889_b.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />White Denim had a rockin set!<br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3099/2908078459_f36157c441_b.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3099/2908078459_f36157c441_b.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />While trying to figure out what settings to use to catch the Austin skyline...I managed to catch a shot of the incredible amount of dust in the air. This was Saturday too...much worse on Sunday!<br /><br /><br /></i><div style="FONT-SIZE: 14px">OK...who else had black boogers?? Don't lie... </div><i><br /><br /></i></div>Raychellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11489173940745836974noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8112061850122971612.post-66693705692247424442008-09-25T17:15:00.001-05:002008-09-25T17:15:04.578-05:00ACL | A Quick One...AT&T always has a big presence at <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">ACL</span>. This year the AT&T blue room will have <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">webcasts</span> available, so you can check out all the festivities online if you can't be there in person. More info <a href="http://attblueroom.com/music/Austin-City-Limits-Music-Festival/more-information.php">here</a>.<div><br /></div><div>Hope you all have a fabulous weekend!</div>Raychellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11489173940745836974noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8112061850122971612.post-62425192476115824992008-09-25T00:00:00.001-05:002008-09-25T00:00:03.285-05:00Austin City Limits Festival | Weather, Fashion & Food<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/_hNrzzv4dBag/SNq5mbSgr9I/AAAAAAAAAL8/dRWOJJp-R50/s1600-h/cropped+me+and+jonathan.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/_hNrzzv4dBag/SNq5mbSgr9I/AAAAAAAAAL8/dRWOJJp-R50/s320/cropped+me+and+jonathan.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5249712385465298898" /></a>As we're less than 48 hours away from the start of ACL 2008, there's more to think about than just what bands I'm going to see. Today, I started thinking about what I was going to wear. First thing to consider... It's going to be HOT this weekend. Last week Austin & most of Texas experienced a wonderful cold front that followed Ike. We had highs in the 80s and lows in the upper 50s. It was glorious. Unfortunately it was not meant to last & this weekend we're expecting highs in the mid 90s & lows in the upper 60s. <div><br /></div><div>I'm sure it won't be as bad as it was back in 2005 when ACL = Giant Dust Bowl & 100+ degree miserableness. The picture here in the upper right is me & Jonathan at ACL 2005. We look happy, but the flash is masking the layer of dirt that covered EVERYTHING (clothes, camera, hair, nostrils...yeah GROSS!! I had black snot for 3 days afterwards...sorry, I know TMI) What made it worse was that it was seriously over 100 degrees outside so everyone was all sweaty & the dirt just stuck to the sweat...yuck! Check out this picture taken on during Coldplay's set the last night of the last day. If you'll focus on the upper portion of the photo (ignoring my horrible picture taking skills), you'll see the massive amounts of dust floating around in the air.<div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/_hNrzzv4dBag/SNq6TzxoQ5I/AAAAAAAAAME/IA8OTa0oWPI/s1600-h/ACL+2005+019.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/_hNrzzv4dBag/SNq6TzxoQ5I/AAAAAAAAAME/IA8OTa0oWPI/s320/ACL+2005+019.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5249713165132383122" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Things should be much better this year. They've improved the irrigation system at the park & the heat isn't supposed to be near as bad... Still, I'm planning on packing sunscreen & my allowed two bottles of factory sealed water.<div><br /></div><div>Now what to wear.. <a href="http://thataustingirl.blogspot.com/">These</a> <a href="http://mrspriss.com/">girls</a>, are so good at using <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/">Polyvore</a>, and I've been looking for a good excuse to create my own collage. So here we go! If you happen to see me at Zilker park this weekend, I'll look very much like what you see here. <div><br /></div><div><br /><br /><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/set?.mid=embed&id=3767414"><img width="400" src="http://img.polyvore.com/cgi/img-set/BQcDAAAAAwoDanBnAAAABC5vdXQKFnJJamxJWUtLM1JHRWhhRVZtN3lfVWcAAAACaWQKAWUAAAAEc2l6ZQ.jpg" title="Ray at ACL 2008" height="400" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Besides thinking about what to wear & bring with me, I browsed the awesome selection of food that will be available at the Food Court. So many of the best restaurants in Austin will be there. As long as the lines are insanely massive, I'm hoping to check out the <a href="http://flickr.com/photos/tvham/247977316/">Hot & Crunchy Chicken Cone</a> from Hudson's on the Bend, a <a href="http://flickr.com/photos/rjgoetz/341073023/">Grilled Sausage Sandwich</a> from The Best Wurst, and a slice of Pepperoni Pizza from Austin's Pizza. Yummy greasy goodness!! Is it bad that I'm just as excited about the food as seeing the bands?! Even though I can go to these places anytime I want, there's something different about enjoying it at the festival.</div><div><br /></div><div>Do any of you frequent festivals? What kind of gear to you bring? What's your favorite festival food?</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div></div></div></div>Raychellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11489173940745836974noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8112061850122971612.post-91161335027073526422008-09-24T17:00:00.001-05:002008-09-24T17:00:00.317-05:00Austin City Limits Festival Day 3Now that I've been cataloging all the bands I intend to see at <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">ACL</span>, I'm starting to remember just how exhausting this event can be. Assuming I make it to Sunday, here's where you can find me:<div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">1:30pm - The Kills</span></span></div><div>In all honesty, we may not get to the festival grounds this early. In the past it's been hard for us to get up & going on the last day of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">ACL</span>. But, if we do I'd like to check out The Kills. They are another band that I found by listening to Pandora. </div><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/KLSXTGmTDtQ&hl=en&fs=1"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/KLSXTGmTDtQ&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br /><br /><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">5:30pm - </span></span><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Okkervil</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> River</span></span></div><div>There's not really anyone I'm dying to see between The Kills & <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Okkervil</span> River. So, either we'll skip the first half of the day or we'll leave for a bit & head over to <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Chuy's</span> for an afternoon margarita. On to <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Okkervil</span> River...I've yet to see this Austin band. I hear wonderful things & this seems like an excellent opportunity to burst my <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Okkervil</span> River cherry :)</div><div><br /></div><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/ROlCPlnCIfo&hl=en&fs=1"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/ROlCPlnCIfo&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br /><br /><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">6:30pm - White Denim</span></span></div><div>I love White Denim! Yeah, I've seen them several times before, but I'd at least like to check out the first half of their set. I may not stay for the whole thing because I'm pretty pumped about the 7:30 band...more about them in a minute. Check out the awesomeness that is White Denim (the song doesn't really get started until about 40 sec into it):</div><div><br /></div><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/0oPvyUHX3DE&hl=en&fs=1"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/0oPvyUHX3DE&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br /><br /><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">7:30pm - Band of Horses</span></span></div><div>This may be the band I'm MOST excited about at <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">ACL</span>!! There have been many a day at work where I just put both Band of Horses albums on repeat & that's all I listen to....I think it's just great music. <div><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/cuZo7pLnL7c&hl=en&fs=1"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/cuZo7pLnL7c&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">8:30pm - Foo Fighters</span></span><div>I'm kind of ambivalent about this. I know I shouldn't be, because like dude...it's the Foo Fighters! I like the Foo Fighters alright & it's pretty cool that we're seeing them before they take a break. But, I'm kinda "eh" about this. I have a feeling I'm going to watch a song or two and then we'll head home to recoup before we have to return to the working world. I will admit this acoustic version of "<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Everlong</span>" is amazing:</div><div><br /></div><div><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/PGQAfolOJUI&hl=en&fs=1"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/PGQAfolOJUI&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /></div></div></div><br />Whew! <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">ACL</span> 2008. Raychellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11489173940745836974noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8112061850122971612.post-27382014762372490172008-09-24T00:00:00.000-05:002008-09-24T00:00:00.630-05:00Austin City Limits Festival Day 2ACL's Saturday line-up has lots of different options. This is definitely the most jam-packed day for me. Let's get started:<div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">12:30pm - Old 97's</span></span></div><div>I haven't really listened to these guys much since my senior year of high school/freshman year of college. I think getting my old groove back will be a good way to start the day. </div><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://vids.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=vids.individual&videoid=4963031">Jagged</a><br /><object width="425" height="360"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="movie" value="http://mediaservices.myspace.com/services/media/embed.aspx/m=4963031,t=1,mt=video,searchID=,primarycolor=,secondarycolor="><embed src="http://mediaservices.myspace.com/services/media/embed.aspx/m=4963031,t=1,mt=video,searchID=,primarycolor=,secondarycolor=" width="425" height="360" allowfullscreen="true" type="application/x-shockwave-flash"></embed></object><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">1:30pm - José González or The Fratellis</span></span><div>Both of these bands are awesome. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m1RtzRMthzI">José González</a> is actually Swedish! His music is great, but it might be a little too low key for a festival environment. So, I have a feeling that Jonathan would rather see The Fratellis who are much more upbeat & more his style of music. I'll be happy either way. </div><div><br /></div><div><div><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/0Ht6CLv-sVc&hl=en&fs=1"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/0Ht6CLv-sVc&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /></div></div><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">3:00pm - MGMT & The Fratellis autograph signing</span></span><div>The custom<a href="http://acl08.sched.org/"> schedule creator</a> that ACL is using even shows you when bands are doing autograph signings. I'm curious how this works at big festivals like this, so I kind of want to check it out.</div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">3:30pm - CSS (Cansei de Ser Sexy)</span></span></div><div>This group looks like so much fun! They are an electro/pop/punk band from Sao Paulo, Brazil... Check out this live performance of "Music Is My Hot, Hot Sex" ...</div><div><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/i52HeGikNKA&hl=en&fs=1"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/i52HeGikNKA&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /></div><div><br /></div><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">5:30pm - MGMT</span></span><div>A group I know Jonathan will agree is a must see. You know when a band gets to tour with Beck you're bound to see a great show...Excited about this one!!<br /><div><div><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/f9GH-yvPHSY&hl=en&fs=1"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/f9GH-yvPHSY&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /></div></div></div><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">6:30pm - John Fogerty</span></span><div>Not sure if we'll make it to see John Fogerty. I think we'll be heading to a different stage to get a place for the 8:30 band. Although I have always been a fan of CCR, so it would be awesome to see him...I can't fully commit to it because this stage (AMD) is all the way across the park from the AT&T stage where the 8:30 band will be playing... And as with all festivals, you've got to get there early if you want to get somewhat close to the stage.</div><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/SCQ6XmsJ8tE&hl=en&fs=1"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/SCQ6XmsJ8tE&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br /><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">8:30pm - Beck!!</span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Don't need to say much about this one...it's just going to be awesome!</span></div><div><br /></div><div><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/heXFhY7y1EI&hl=en&fs=1"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/heXFhY7y1EI&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /></div><br /><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>All these great bands & there's still one whole day to go. If you're not sick to death of me forcing my music taste down your throat, I'll be posting Sunday's schedule very soon!</div>Raychellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11489173940745836974noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8112061850122971612.post-339262938869570562008-09-23T14:20:00.001-05:002008-09-23T15:46:34.145-05:00Austin City Limits Festival Day 1So excited about the upcoming ACL festival! Of course I've yet to ask off of work, but eh, a minor detail. Here's some of the fabulous goodness I'll be enjoying on Friday, the first day of ACL:<div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">2:30pm - Vampire Weekend</span></span></div><div>I saw Vampire Weekend a while back at Mohawk. But they played indoors and I loathe the inside stage at Mohawk so I listened from afar & didn't really think much of the whole experience. But, their self titled debut album has been on my playlist since it came out! With their swingy afro-beats, it was perfect for the summer time. According to a recent post on Rockouts, VW has a new song on the soundtrack for the new flick "Nick & Nora's Infinite Playlist". Check it on <a href="http://www.rockouts.com/post/Vampire_Weekend_-_Ottoman">Rockouts </a>or just view the classic "Oxford Comma" here:</div><div><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/P_i1xk07o4g&hl=en&fs=1"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/P_i1xk07o4g&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">5:15 pm - Mates of State or 5:30pm - Hot Chip</span></div><div>I'm torn between which of these I should go to. Due to the wonderfulness that is Pandora & Last.fm, I have recently become familiar with Mates of State. I dig 'em. Of course it's hard to pass up jamming out to Hot Chip live. I'm guessing I'll end up seeing whoever Jonathan wants to see...which is fine b/c I HATE making decisions when I'm trying to have fun. I'm going to post the Mates of State video because I kind of like them a smidge better right now:</div><div><br /></div><div><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/kdoYK9jOltQ&hl=en&fs=1"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/kdoYK9jOltQ&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">6:30pm - N.E.R.D.</span></div><div>6:30 was kind of tough. I saw N.E.R.D. when I saw <a href="http://zeldaray.blogspot.com/2008/05/harder-better-faster-stronger.html">Kanye</a> earlier this year. It was a good show, but since I wasn't that familiar with them, I kind of got bored (yeah I know that's bad). But, I think for a festival they would be really fun, especially as its going to be cooling off about that time as it gets closer to dusk. The other option I considered was David Byrne who I also have heard via Pandora, but eh, I'm even less familiar with him than N.E.R.D. Kind of a silly way to make a decision...but there are so many bands to see that you've got to decide somehow, you know?! Check 'em:</div><div><br /></div><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/PA1HB_yJii4&hl=en&fs=1"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/PA1HB_yJii4&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">8:15pm - The Mars Volta or 8:30pm - Manu Chao</span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">Again, another tough decision. I'm fairly new to both of these. I think it would be cool to see Manu Chao since he has such an international following, even though I barely know any of his work. The Mars Volta is likely to be Jonathan's choice. Of course, after being at the park all day, who knows, we may end up heading home before we see all of either. Check it:</span></span></div><div><br /></div><div><div><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/mzgjiPBCsss&hl=en&fs=1"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/mzgjiPBCsss&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /></div></div><br />There ya have it! A lot of after shows are going on so hopefully we'll do some of those as well. That or we'll collapse from exhaustion & sun burn at the casa & prepare for a fun filled Saturday.<div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Raychellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11489173940745836974noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8112061850122971612.post-64911578668102955832008-09-07T16:40:00.001-05:002010-06-22T19:07:04.239-05:00Sorry, we only carry sizes 1, 3, and 5. You could try Sears?Since I got married in December, I've gained a little weight...10 lbs to be specific. I'm by no means obese...let alone overweight. But, I'm much softer than I was a few months ago. I go through periods where this really bothers me (anytime someone mentions swimsuits) and then there are times when I don't even notice (when I'm wearing cute, fashionable, & flattering empire waist tops).<br /><br />I'm fairly self conscious about my body & in the past few months I've gotten fed up with being <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">embarrassed</span> by my "softness" and so I've started going to the gym several time a week and watching what I eat. It's not helping. Not sure what it is. I don't think I've changed the way I eat between now and this time last year. So, this 10 lbs of yuck is really perplexing.<br /><br />I'm at a really small <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">trade show</span> today & this customer comes & gives me a hug. I've met him at several shows over the years and he always takes time to chit chat with me and see what's new at the company.... I guess you could say we're <em><span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">trade show</span> friends</em>. So, this <em><span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">trade show</span> friend</em> comes over and the first thing out of his mouth after hugging me is, "<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Oooh</span>, you're putting on weight!". I am shocked and I'm sure I made a horrendous face when I said, "uh, what?" and he patted his belly and repeated, "you're putting on weight" (with a grin & a wink)<br /><br />I'm not sure what this guy was thinking when he mentioned that. Maybe he thinks I'm <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">preggers</span>...ah! <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">ack</span>! ugh! Maybe he thinks that's a good thing? Maybe he thought we were good enough friends that he could tease me about my new layer of blubber? I have no idea. Anyway you look at it, I was super uncomfortable.<br /><br />I just laughed it off, "<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">heh</span>, yeah, got that newlywed weight." And I give a hearty <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">laugh</span> & pat my soft belly.<br /><br />AAAHHHHH the humiliation!!!!<br /><br />Did any of you gain a little newlywed weight? Has anyone every <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">humiliated</span> you by commenting on your weight publicly?<br /><br />If not, can you please make up a story to make me feel better?! Thanks! :)Raychellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11489173940745836974noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8112061850122971612.post-47268472749179235352008-08-22T17:30:00.001-05:002008-09-03T14:12:34.386-05:00Live Music Capital of the World<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3296/2786889157_68f7489eaa.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3296/2786889157_68f7489eaa.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a>Austin is such a great place to see live music. Although to be honest, I've never lived in another major city, so my basis of comparison is by reputation alone....but, I love that there are so many small venues around town where you can pop in almost any night and catch a great show. <br /><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://www.mohawkaustin.com/">Mohawk</a> was our venue of choice last night. Jonathan & I went with one of our friends, Kyle, to see <a href="http://www.myspace.com/peel">Peel</a>, <a href="http://www.myspace.com/bopenglish">White Denim</a> & <a href="http://www.myspace.com/brazosbrazos">Brazos</a>. These are three really great local bands. I was familiar with the first two and completely new to Brazos.<div><br /></div><div>As with last time, Peel was almost done with their set when we arrived. The two songs we did see where great. The crowd was really into it last night and there was even an impromptu dance floor in front of the stage which was kinda crazy and oddly enough, seemed appropriate.</div><div><br /></div><div>A short wait later and White Denim came on stage. These guys had a packed show playing one song after another with little to no down time in between. We were trying to decide how to best explain the style of White Denim. We're reminded of bands like The Doors and Rolling Stones but then again not really. Check out this <a href="http://austinist.com/2007/05/31/garage_rock_for_geeks_austinist_3s_white_denim.php">Austinist article</a> for a great description. Each one of the band members seems like they are amazing on their own & together they really put on a great energetic show. </div><div><br /></div><div>We took some amateur video at the concert last night...check it!</div><div><br /></div><div><br /><object type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="400" height="300" data="http://www.flickr.com/apps/video/stewart.swf?v=58932" classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000"> <param name="flashvars" value="intl_lang=en-us&photo_secret=3bf7488178&photo_id=2786858295&show_info_box=true"> <param name="movie" value="http://www.flickr.com/apps/video/stewart.swf?v=58932"> <param name="bgcolor" value="#000000"> <param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><embed type="application/x-shockwave-flash" src="http://www.flickr.com/apps/video/stewart.swf?v=58932" bgcolor="#000000" allowfullscreen="true" flashvars="intl_lang=en-us&photo_secret=3bf7488178&photo_id=2786858295&flickr_show_info_box=true" height="300" width="400"></embed></object><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>That was pretty much the highlight of the evening. For some reason we missed the memo that Brazos was playing inside. By the time we figured it out, the band was half way through and it was uber crowded. The a/c inside Mohawk was having a hard time keeping up with the crowd. The boys inched their way to the front near the stage and I stayed back by the bar & hung out under and air vent....I'm such a weenie. On the plus side, I only got hit on once by a random dude who was smart enough to hit the road once I mentioned my husband in the other room.</div><div><br /></div><div>All in all, it was a great night out in Austin!</div></div>Raychellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11489173940745836974noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8112061850122971612.post-26183619043204870972008-08-22T10:00:00.003-05:002010-06-22T19:07:04.240-05:00Austin City Limits Music Festival<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/_hNrzzv4dBag/SK7aCI1e7UI/AAAAAAAAALM/4OPcaucqefQ/s1600-h/ACL2006004.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/_hNrzzv4dBag/SK7aCI1e7UI/AAAAAAAAALM/4OPcaucqefQ/s320/ACL2006004.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5237363146944867650" /></a><br />As I've mentioned on here several times before, Jonathan & I like to go to concerts together... it's our "thing". Festivals are even better! We went to the 2005 & 2006 <a href="http://aclfestival.com/default.aspx">Austin City Limits Festival</a> (ACL) together. Then last year, I had a work event in Chicago and I couldn't go. It was torture for me to not be there. I would talk to him every night and it would be hard to hear each other because some awesome band was about to start. And well, can he call me later? It was not pleasant and I was determined that I was going to go to this year's event no matter what!<div><br /></div><div>So, as soon as 3 day passes went on sale in early March, Jonathan and I scooped up a pair. Not two days later and while talking to my boss about a possible tradeshow he tells me that not only will our company be exhibiting at this tradeshow but I HAVE to go... no ifs, ands, or buts. And the tradeshow... it's the weekend of ACL. ARG! <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Devastation</span>.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/_hNrzzv4dBag/SK7ZxLTvSvI/AAAAAAAAALE/vUYVwPD-e-k/s1600-h/ACL+2005+003.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/_hNrzzv4dBag/SK7ZxLTvSvI/AAAAAAAAALE/vUYVwPD-e-k/s320/ACL+2005+003.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5237362855550864114" /></a>Jonathan tells one of his buddies, Scott, that he'll sell my ticket to him at face value. Nice for our friend...bummer for me.</div><div><br />So...while at the grocery store on Tuesday, my day off, I got a text from one of my coworkers. </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>"Dude! Buy your acl ticket...(<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">insert tradeshow name</span>) has been canceled!!!! Omg! Crazy!"</div><div><br /><br /></div><div>I was shocked...stopped dead in my tracks in the middle of the H-E-B Bakery. I quickly check my blackberry for any emails I may have missed from this particular tradeshow... I find nothing.</div><div><br /></div><div>I text my coworker back to tell her that it's not nice to toy with my emotions like that and if she's lying to me I will beat her up when I get back to the office. She confirms that it is in fact true. The most poorly timed tradeshow EVER is canceled!!</div><div><br /></div><div>Hells-to-the-yeah! </div><div><br /></div><div>I call Jonathan...still standing in the Bakery section of H-E-B & let him know that Scott is going to have to find his own damn ACL ticket because oh my goodness I get to go!!</div><div><br /></div><div>I'm super pumped that I get to go! I've even made my schedule. Check it: http://acl08.sched.org/zeldaray Of course it's all subject to change depending on Jiggity's preferences, but should be some sweet shows.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Raychellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11489173940745836974noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8112061850122971612.post-53301523591859801202008-07-23T16:46:00.000-05:002008-07-23T16:47:04.811-05:004:11pm on WednesdayI get an email from Jonathan titled "Mmm, butt" with this picture of Lola & Peyton:<div><br /></div><div><br /></div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/_hNrzzv4dBag/SIemRohLRfI/AAAAAAAAAK0/r_Iv0dOwuGo/s1600-h/lolabutt.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/_hNrzzv4dBag/SIemRohLRfI/AAAAAAAAAK0/r_Iv0dOwuGo/s320/lolabutt.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5226328714451305970" /></a><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Totally made my afternoon! Thanks honey!</div>Raychellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11489173940745836974noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8112061850122971612.post-68272646930376093632008-07-17T14:49:00.002-05:002008-07-17T15:01:03.554-05:00"I love the smell of commerce in the morning!"I'm not much of a <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">fashionista</span> or trendsetter. I mean I love clothing, design, even shopping, but I wouldn't say I'm particularly skilled at it. <div><br /></div><div>I saw <a href="http://okayyeah.blogspot.com/2008/07/on-my-inner-fashionista.html"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Wishcake</span>'</a>s post the other day and commented on how I never think to go to Old Navy to check out some affordable clothes. So, I stopped by the local mall on my lunch break today and cruised on over to Old Navy. </div><div><br /></div><div>There is something about that store that inhibits my ability to think outside the box. In stores that big, I feel more comfortable if the mannequins show me what to wear. You know, give me some ideas. I've been shopping in mostly smaller boutiques for the past year or two, with the exception of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Anthropologie</span>...I LOVE that store more than any other store I've been to. Seriously...<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Anthropologie</span> is AWESOME. So you know at boutiques you can cruise through the store and there are lots of unique items. You have to be careful when you're looking so that you don't miss some hidden gem. </div><div><br /></div><div>At chain stores...even though the store is bigger, there are fewer things to choose from. There will be one dress, but it's in 5 different colors and two of every size. I used to work in retail...at the evil <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Abercrombie</span> & Fitch...so I know these chain retailers put the best of the best of what they've got on the mannequins. </div><div><br /></div><div>Everything the mannequins had on was not cute or too obviously Old Navy (no offense Old Navy, I'd just rather give the illusion that I spent a lot of money on my clothes). I probably didn't stay long enough, but when I couldn't find the pants <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Wishcake</span> was wearing, I bolted.</div><div><br /></div><div>Since my search for affordable pants at ON was over, I thought I'd go ahead and look around for a dress to wear to a wedding I'm going to to this weekend. So, next stop was Banana Republic. Ugh, frustrating. The a/c wasn't working in the store & they were setting up for a sale, so the staff was moving stuff around while I was browsing making the whole experience unpleasant.</div><div><br /></div><div>I headed over to White House | Black Market to browse. Lots of cute stuff. Not cute enough to spend $200 though. </div><div><br /></div><div>I left the mall frustrated. </div><div><br /></div><div>Does shopping in the mall frustrate you? How do you handle the blah-<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">ness</span> & find cute stuff?</div><div><br /></div><div>On the bright side...Back at the office I had an email from a friend that had a link to join this cute website, called <a href="http://gotidbits.com/"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">gotidbits</span></a>. It's specific to Austin and Houston (<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">Austinites</span> check it!). Cute website & good info so I signed up.</div><div><br /></div><div>Look what I found!</div><div><br /></div><div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/_hNrzzv4dBag/SH-eKacc2qI/AAAAAAAAAKs/IKkxBTgSvDQ/s1600-h/pd_kc_tapertote_modgrnsq_hero_900.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/_hNrzzv4dBag/SH-eKacc2qI/AAAAAAAAAKs/IKkxBTgSvDQ/s320/pd_kc_tapertote_modgrnsq_hero_900.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5224067994507598498" /></a></div><div>This laptop bag is adorable...and it comes in other colors & patterns. This one is out of stock until mid-August...I may go ahead an splurge for a different one...maybe the green or red one? Oh and what am I saying, it's not splurge, these adorable bags are only $69.99 on the <a href="http://www.kailochic.com/LaptopBags.htm"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">Kailo</span> Chic</a> website. There are retailers around the country too...so you may be able to find a shop that carries <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">Kailo</span> Chic near you! </div><div><br /></div><div>After my experience today, I think I'm going to stick to my boutiques & <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">Anthropologie</span>. The mall has left me feeling jaded But at least I found an ü<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">ber</span> cute new website to follow!<br /></div><div><br /></div>Raychellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11489173940745836974noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8112061850122971612.post-11682299450043248852008-07-15T13:01:00.000-05:002008-07-15T13:01:01.135-05:00Lola vs. The Sprinkler pt. 2A few of my family members sent me a check for my birthday. So, I decided to use part of my birthday cash to buy <a href="http://www.theflip.com/products.shtml">The Flip</a>!<br /><br />Here's my first video, Lola vs. The Sprinkler pt. 2 . Certainly nothing too impressive, but it makes me smile. You can check out the original Lola vs. The Sprinkler <a href="http://zeldaray.blogspot.com/2008/05/are-those-sad-tissues-or-happy-tissues.html">here</a>.<br /><br /><br /><object width="352" height="240"> <param name="allowfullscreen" value="true"> <param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"> <param name="movie" value="http://www.vimeo.com/moogaloop.swf?clip_id=1342554&server=www.vimeo.com&show_title=0&show_byline=0&show_portrait=0&color=00ADEF&fullscreen=1"> <embed src="http://www.vimeo.com/moogaloop.swf?clip_id=1342554&server=www.vimeo.com&show_title=0&show_byline=0&show_portrait=0&color=00ADEF&fullscreen=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" allowscriptaccess="always" width="352" height="240"></embed></object><br /><a href="http://www.vimeo.com/1342554?pg=embed&sec=1342554">Lola vs. The Sprinkler pt 2</a> from <a href="http://www.vimeo.com/user506475?pg=embed&sec=1342554">Raychelle G</a> on <a href="http://vimeo.com/?pg=embed&sec=1342554">Vimeo</a>.Raychellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11489173940745836974noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8112061850122971612.post-38103067662662191312008-07-11T12:33:00.001-05:002008-07-11T12:47:18.081-05:00Sister, Seester!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm1.static.flickr.com/120/302471807_a8dd47915b.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px;" src="http://farm1.static.flickr.com/120/302471807_a8dd47915b.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a>My little sister, Rylee, is coming to visit this weekend. Jonathan & I will drive up to Waco this evening to meet my mom. I'm elated that she's coming to stay with me. <div><br /></div><div>Rylee is special. I mean, all my sisters are special, but I feel a unique connection with her. When I was a teen, my mom & stepdad, Shawn, were foster parents. They were hoping this would be a great way for them to adopt the little boy they never had. Almost two weeks after my 16th birthday a new baby girl came to stay with my mom & Shawn. She was an itty bitty premie, a mere 2 days old. They named her Rylee.</div><div><br /></div><div>I was pumped to have a new little one to play with. But, I had just received my drivers license...so I was a little more excited about driving around with my friends. Sadly, I don't remember much from Rylee's first years. Things just didn't work out with her birth family. So mom & Shawn, who had always wanted a boy, ended up being happier than they ever thought they could be to have this precious little girl, be theirs forever. She was legally my little sister by the time she was two. </div><div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2027/2234157612_cc6a8a6f25_b.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px;" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2027/2234157612_cc6a8a6f25_b.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a></div><div>One of the few things I remember from the early days is I felt like I knew her. I knew where she was coming from. Maybe it's similar to the rapport I feel with anyone who lives with one or more parents that aren't their birth parents. Those of you who are adopted or have remarried parents may know what I mean...maybe not. Anyway, my feelings on adoptive parents & step-parents is not the point.</div><div><br /></div><div>Rylee's awesome! That's the point! She may be sixteen years my junior, but I dig her. She's got the sweetest heart of any 10 yr old you'll meet. If you're having a bad day, she'll be the first one by your side trying to cheer you up. </div><div><br /></div><div>She has ADHD which has led to some challenges in school, but she's a real hard worker and is doing so much better. The plus side of ADHD is she always has a ton of energy and is super fun to be around. She's the first one to volunteer to play a game & the last one to want to quit. </div><div><br /></div><div>She came to visit me with my mom, sisters, & Mema a few weeks ago, and let me say, she is a total rock star at Guitar Hero III!</div><div><br /></div><div>Saturday is Rylee's birthday. She's turning 10! I can't believe it! I hope Jonathan & I can make her birthday a good one. We're planning on making a trip to <a href="http://www.schlitterbahn.com/nb/">Schlitterbahn</a>. I have never been there, but apparently I've been missing out on the best water park in TX. I'm so excited that she's going to be here.</div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/_hNrzzv4dBag/SHeaT-oRuNI/AAAAAAAAAKk/AR_NGUsrHrw/s1600-h/082007+160.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/_hNrzzv4dBag/SHeaT-oRuNI/AAAAAAAAAKk/AR_NGUsrHrw/s320/082007+160.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5221811960979503314" /></a>Raychellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11489173940745836974noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8112061850122971612.post-51085480087474056752008-07-07T20:22:00.001-05:002008-07-07T20:29:13.350-05:00The Lola MonsterYesterday was a very important day in our home. It was Lola's second birthday. Lola Monster, our precious Boxer was brought into this world on July 6, 2008. Eight weeks later, she came to live in our nice, large third floor apartment. That day when we brought her home we weren't concerned with the late night potty breaks; the hundreds of up & down three flights of stairs we would do in hopes that someday she would stop pooping on our carpet; no, we were just thrilled to have a new member of the family.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/_hNrzzv4dBag/SHK8IPqakMI/AAAAAAAAAJ4/09mZAo6hrWk/s1600-h/DSC00860.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/_hNrzzv4dBag/SHK8IPqakMI/AAAAAAAAAJ4/09mZAo6hrWk/s320/DSC00860.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5220441767905235138" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:78%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">Lola's first picture. Sitting in my lap on the way to her new home!<br /></span></span></div><br />Though she's a little blurry, it's already clear what a darling little addition she would be to our family. How could you not love that face!? She was pretty timid which we attributed to the newness of the whole situation. We would soon find out that is just Lola's way. She's probably the gentlest dog I've ever met.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/_hNrzzv4dBag/SHK9WNyb5AI/AAAAAAAAAKA/YKkoLSB0Cq0/s1600-h/DSC00878.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/_hNrzzv4dBag/SHK9WNyb5AI/AAAAAAAAAKA/YKkoLSB0Cq0/s320/DSC00878.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5220443107431801858" border="0" /></a><br />This is us sharing a little TV time on her first night in the apartment. She was sooo tiny!<br /><br />Look how tiny she was compared to Peyton! That little purple collar...it's a cat collar! A gift from the future in-laws :)<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/_hNrzzv4dBag/SHK-uh9P8sI/AAAAAAAAAKI/57Hw_-isLdI/s1600-h/lola+&+peyton.bmp"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/_hNrzzv4dBag/SHK-uh9P8sI/AAAAAAAAAKI/57Hw_-isLdI/s320/lola+&+peyton.bmp" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5220444624674353858" border="0" /></a><br />One more picture from the early days before I move on:<br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/_hNrzzv4dBag/SHK_heHT0wI/AAAAAAAAAKQ/U0hLZcFvrw8/s1600-h/DSC00895.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/_hNrzzv4dBag/SHK_heHT0wI/AAAAAAAAAKQ/U0hLZcFvrw8/s320/DSC00895.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5220445499816137474" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-size:78%;">Isn't this precious! Jonathan & Lola bonded right from the start<br /></span></span></div><br />Happy birthday Lola! We're so happy to have you as member of our family!<br /><br />Jonathan thinks it's a little odd that I can remember Lola's birthday. But, she was my first dog that I had all on my own...well, with Jonathan. She was OUR first pet together...this meant we were stuck! This was before we were engaged...so though we were living together, there were no technical commitments between us...Lola would be the first. Plus her birthday is just four days after mine...if that isn't meant to be I don't know what is!<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1377/743838016_4f84402292.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px;" src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1377/743838016_4f84402292.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br />I'm off to go hug my Lola Monster :) If you have a furry kid like we do...go give your little monster a hug too!<br /></div>Raychellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11489173940745836974noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8112061850122971612.post-3454559967161013682008-07-03T21:52:00.004-05:002008-07-03T22:02:23.356-05:00Exposaroonie | VintageIt's <a href="http://challenge.exposaroonie.com/">Exposaroonie</a> time again :) This week the Challenge was to take a photo with a Vintage feel. I decided to use one of the actions the Exposaroonie gals suggested: <a href="http://www.flickr.com/groups/alactions/">Autumn Love Actions</a>....check it out. It's a super cool action and best of all it's free.<br /><br />Jonathan gave me several bouquets of flowers along with my super special birthday present (more on that later). I had put to of the cute frilly flowers in vases on our dresser...which has a sort of vintage look to it. So, the setting plus the awesome Autumn Love Action and voila!! My submission:<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/_hNrzzv4dBag/SG2R4WxAHRI/AAAAAAAAAJw/GgMRqeft62U/s1600-h/exposarooniejul3.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/_hNrzzv4dBag/SG2R4WxAHRI/AAAAAAAAAJw/GgMRqeft62U/s400/exposarooniejul3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5218987940562083090" border="0" /></a><br />You can vote for your favorite <a href="http://challenge.exposaroonie.com/">here</a>.<br /><br />Happy Independence Day!!Raychellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11489173940745836974noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8112061850122971612.post-78946126171364445462008-06-18T11:15:00.000-05:002008-06-18T11:21:03.736-05:00Charlotte Poughkeepsied in her pants!Jonathan & I had a date night last night. I've been teasing him for a couple weeks that we need to go see Sex and the City. I say teasing because Jonathan hates to do anything that might be considered even slightly girly. I never really thought he'd go for it. See I know it's a movie I should see with my friends but these days I rarely see my girls. We're all so busy with work and half of them have significant others who live out of town and/or they travel for work. So it's pretty rare that we're all in town at the same time with nothing going on.<div><br /></div><div>So, Jonathan surprised me yesterday afternoon by IMing me at work and asking if I wanted to have a date night. He suggested dinner and a movie. The sweet fella bought tickets on fandango for SATC without me even having to ask. So, we had dinner at La Madeleine... which I love! I had the shrimp crepe...I strayed from my usual Caesar Salad & cup of Tomato Basil soup....it was deeeeelicious!</div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/_hNrzzv4dBag/SFk1QSxltgI/AAAAAAAAAJI/VCXxBrmTDbM/s1600-h/1000024481.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/_hNrzzv4dBag/SFk1QSxltgI/AAAAAAAAAJI/VCXxBrmTDbM/s320/1000024481.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5213256597692069378" /></a><br /></div><div>Then we were off to SATC. I LOVED it!!!! It was like watching 3 or 4 of SATC shows at once! The clothes were amazing...although I did have a problem with one of Patricia Field's costume choices. Towards the end when Carrie & Miranda are talking in the park...Miranda has on these knee high boots with fringe over jeans. Miranda would NEVER wear that! </div><div><br /></div><div>Other than that little knit pick, I really enjoyed the movie. It made me laugh, cry, & smile....a lot! If you're like me and are a huge Sex and the City fan & haven't been able to see the movie yet...go see it!</div><div><br /></div>Raychellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11489173940745836974noreply@blogger.com1