The Holman Family

Mother-Daughter Trip!

2010-11-06T15:36:00.006-04:00

My adorable, fun, sweet and beautiful mom recently celebrated a birthday in October - so what better way to celebrate than a mother-daughter trip to Scottsdale for some warm weather, sun and relaxation. In case you didn't know, I have 3 sisters - so there were a total of 4 daughters in the family -lots of fun growing up! There is nothing like the relationship you have with your sisters and the relationship we all have with our mom- she really is more of a friend to us at this point! Only 3 daughters could make the trip this year, but hopefully next time we will all be in attendance.

We all had a great time and spent most of the days laying by the pool, catching up with each other, eating yummy food and enjoying the 88 degree weather. In the evenings, we had long dinners, laughed a lot and enjoyed the dozens of firepits surrounding the resort. We all had so much fun, we've already started planning the next trip.

4 years of wedded bliss...

2010-11-06T15:03:00.004-04:00

Back in September, Hubs and I celebrated 4 wonderful years of wedded bliss! Man - those 4 years went by really fast!!! We've had a lot of fun, learned a lot about each other AND life, laughed a lot, cried some, dreamed big, stumbled a little, and made plans for the next 50 years! To be honest, the last 2 years have been more difficult than the first 2 years - as many of you know... there have been lots of changes that happened in the last 2 years. Moving across the country, changing houses, changing jobs, changing friends, etc etc etc. But one of the most important things we have learned is to stay grounded in our faith, trusting our Savior and His plan for our life. Hubs and I keep reminding each other to "play on the same team" and constantly be an encouragement to each other. I love this man more and more every day and am so proud of him!!! I love to watch him plan for our future and talk about our future kiddos running around - makes me tear up just thinking about it! I can't wait for all that God has in store for us :)

So to celebrate those 4 years of wedded bliss, we made another trip down to our favorite resort in Cabo - for some fun in the sun!

BaYLoR FoOtBaLL!

2010-11-06T14:47:00.003-04:00

The Bears have had a pretty incredible season so far...(yes, I am saying that as I watch the OSU Cowboys kick our tail-but you can't win them all and to be honest, not many people thought we would win this game)...

Anyways- the Bears have been pretty impressive and done a lot of things that haven't been done in Bear Country in quite some time! BCS Top 25, Beating UT in Austin, #1 team in the Big 12 South, RG3 in the running for the Heisman and not to mention a Bowl Game!!!

Hubs and I have season tickets again this year and have been enjoying the weekends in Waco - lots of tailgating, Homecoming and wins! 2 more home games left in the season - Texas A&M and OU - should be a great end to the season! Enjoy the pics!

Getting Caught Up....

2010-11-06T14:39:00.003-04:00

Ok - so I have been TERRIBLE at blogging lately. But have no fear- if you are still around and reading this blog, I'm going to update you on a little that has been going on around the Holman House :) Currently, the hubs is in Wisconsin - preparing to go to the Dallas Cowboys vs Green Bay Packers game on Sunday night. The temp for Sunday night is supposed to be around 39 degrees...brrrrr - good thing he took his hot chilies! I am snuggled up on the couch with my favorite black lab laying at my feet and enjoying some good ole college football.

So enjoy the updates - and lots of pics!!

Melt My Heart!

2010-06-18T14:31:00.004-04:00

Ok...so I know he isn't mine, but I just HAD to post these B.E.A.U.T.I.F.U.L pictures of my precious nephew, Griffin! And I do have to say that my sister is absolutely gorgeous as well. Love you both! Amber at Studio Three Sixteen is amazing!

Don't you just want to eat him up!! I cannot believe he is almost 12 weeks old!

Destin 2010

2010-06-17T18:37:00.006-04:00

A couple of weeks ago we took a little trip to Florida to experience the Holman-Burson-Oprea-Carson family reunion. Every 2 years, Blake's family from Texas and from South Carolina all make their way to the beautiful beaches of Destin, FL to have some fun in the sun. This year we had a total of 20 people in the house- 6 of those were kiddos under the age of 5!!! WOW - It was loads and loads of LOUD FUN - a little crazy at times, but we wouldn't trade it for the world. Can't wait to do it all over again in 2012! Enjoy the pics :)

Blake and I with Cooper, Mason and Hallye...

...and with Haley and Brooke (Reese was on an ice cream date with her daddy)

sweet brothers

the "big kids" went out for a dinner on our own
The Holmans

The Opreas and Carsons

the guys went fishing one day - and then cooked it all for us - yum!

...pool time...

...beach time...

Blair and Cooper

Blake and sweet Reese

our little buddies for the week - Reese and Mason

Mason and Uncle Blake

And this pretty much sums it all up :)

SpRiNg FeVeR

2010-05-16T22:28:00.004-04:00

Spring has definitely hit at the Holman house! We have loved the past few weeks of beautiful sunshine and warmer temps! We have been busy busy the past couple of months and LOTS more fun events to come in May, June and July- so be on the lookout for more posts on the 2nd Annual Holman Family Beach Trip, Memorial Day at the Parker lake house, Stephen/Erin's GA Mountains wedding, Noelle/JT's NC Mountain wedding, my 10 year high school reunion, July 4th at the lake house, etc, etc, etc! It will be a fun and busy summer - can't wait!
For now, check out what we've been up to the last couple of months...

Blake and I went to the Rangers' Home Opener in early April - great game, great day!

In late April, we were invited to the Dallas Museum of Art - Art Ball 2010! SO.MUCH.FUN!!! We had a great night getting dressed up and going out with Luke and Lisa Henderson and Dan and Caroline (soon-to-be) Hatton!

My sister hosted another fabulous Mother's Day luncheon at her house! So much fun to spoil the mammas in our family! (Note: Blake was at a bachelor party in Atlanta that weekend, so he is not in the family pic)

Mom and her girls...Melissa, me, Mom, Jen, Amy

And we just got back from a BEAUTIFUL wedding at Wildcatter Ranch by Possum Kingdom Lake. Blake's cousin, Carol, got married outside on a beautiful ranch - we all had a fabulous time!

Cooper wanted to be in a pic with Aunt Heather and Uncle Blake - too cute

The beautiful background for the ceremony

A sweet picture of my nephews and niece - Cooper, Hallye, Mason

Meet Greta!

2010-04-29T10:11:00.002-04:00

Greta, our sweet little black lab, joined our little family on March 13, 2010!! She is so precious and we have been having a blast with her! She loves to go on walks, she knows how to sit, stay, lay down (sometimes) and is so playful! We love her to pieces and have been amazed at how quickly she has been growing. Enjoy the pics!

Little Blessings

2010-04-28T21:11:00.002-04:00

So many sweet little blessings have entered the world the past few weeks! Blake and I have been fortunate to have been there for most of them and can't wait to cherish all these little ones!

Cason Keyes Burdett, Jr. - Feb 23, 2010 (with mommy, Regan)

Hallye Paige Holman - Feb 23, 2010 - OUR NIECE

Griffin Thomas Fitzhugh - March 31, 2010 - OUR NEPHEW!

Griffin Thomas Fitzhugh - March 31, 2010 (again)

Robert "Bennett" Cavazos - April 11, 2010 - with Lisa Henderson

Griffin Thomas Fitzhugh!

2010-03-31T23:24:00.002-04:00

My perfect and adorable nephew was born today!!! He is amazing and probably the cutest baby I have ever seen! Congrats Melissa and Ryan! You will be amazing parents and I cannot wait to spoil this little boy every single day!

JUNIOR!!!

2010-02-04T17:52:00.006-05:00

One of my dearest friends, Regan, is about to me a mommy VERY soon! (March 4 at the latest!) So we had a great reason to shower this beautiful mama-to-be and her precious little bambino, Cason Keyes Burdett Jr! He will be one loved little man and we CANNOT wait to meet him!

with my precious mom- she will soon be a Gigi!!

with the mama-to-be

Hostesses - Elizabeth, me, Mama, Chelle and Noelle

Celebrity Look Alikes

2010-02-02T11:25:00.006-05:00

So there is a trend going around on Facebook right now, that asks everyone to replace their picture with the celebrity that people tell them they most look like. I thought it was kind of fun and decided to post it on here as well. Let me know what you think. It is interesting to say the least.

I actually get 2 look alikes on a regular basis:
Kate Bosworth

and Elisabeth Hasselbeck

Personally, if I really did look like either of these women, I would be very flattered. Not sure if I see it, but that is what others tell me.
And Blake gets the same one almost every day. It is pretty funny how often he is told he looks like a young Brett Favre! (i agree too)

Hello 2010!!

2010-01-25T15:09:00.007-05:00

Many apologies in the delay of this post... clearly 2010 started several weeks ago. However, 2010 also brought 3 weeks of icky-ness to me. Seriously, 3 weeks of an upper respiratory infection, 2 rounds of antibiotics, 1 round of steroids, countless nights of coughing and no sleep. I also passed this loveliness to the hubs and we are just now starting to feel normal again! WOW!

We started 2010 off with a BANG at our house for our first NYE cocktail party! Such great friends and family were there to ring in the new decade! 2010 is going to be a FABULOUS year!!!! I CAN.NOT.WAIT to see what is in store for the Holmans this year :)

The Dessert Table

The Party Favors

Dad and his girls...3 out of 5 of his girls (Mom was probably in the kitchen helping me with something, and Amy couldn't make it to the party)

Yes, those are Riedel champagne glasses... I got a little stressed about them ALL breaking! But how do you stop Peter, especially when he was dressed up like that.

Happy 2010!!!

Christmas 2009- Holman Style

2010-01-07T13:14:00.005-05:00

We celebrated Christmas a few times with the Holmans. First, on Dec. 20 in Henrietta with Meme and Gramps and the Yeagers. It is always so nice to spend time in Henrietta...it is quiet, peaceful and always warms my heart. We had wonderful meals, got to spend the night at Aunt Nancy's beautiful home, watched Gramps read the Christmas story to the kiddos, open gifts, listened to carolers and share how we have "built bridges" over the year. Meme and Gramps are such GENEROUS people and really show how important family is in all their actions. We love you! Thank you for having us!

Gramps and Mason listening to the carolers at the front door

Meme and Gramps with all their grandkids

Merry Christmas!

Gramps reading the Christmas story to Mason and Aubrey

Less than a week later, we headed down to Waco on Christmas Day for the next celebration- that lasted several days! Blake's family from South Carolina were in town and we had a total of 21 people at Mike and Sherrie's for 4 days! It was a full house-but tons of fun! Not to mention 5 kiddos under the age of 5!

Sweet Mason in his new Baylor Bear hat!

Bonnie and I on Christmas Day

Santa even made an appearance!

and Cooper was beside himself!

all the little bits with Santa (Haley-4, Brooke-7 mths, Mason-22 mths, Reese-2, Cooper-3)

Brooke and her beautiful blue eyes!

I love this one of Mason's smile!

ALL the kids are just mesmerized by Uncle Blake - he is SO good with kids! and what started out as a little wrestling...

...ended as a HUGE dog pile! Watching this made me so excited to have kids with Blake (one day) because I know he is going to be such a hands-on, fun, involved dad!

I am pretty sure someone in the family got a pic of the whole bunch, but it wasn't my camera...so as soon as I get it, I will post it, just to show off this crew! Can't wait to see you all again in Destin this summer!
Whew! What a wonderful Christmas with everyone!!! On a side note: Almost everyone at the Holman house was sick by the end of the trip...just a lot going around. Blake and I thought we had a tough enough immune system, UNTIL I got terribly sick on New Year's Eve/Day and have been home sick ever since! Finally on the mend though :)

A White Christmas- Parker Style - 2009

2010-01-07T12:29:00.005-05:00

The Christmas of 2009 was definitely one to remember! It all started with a balmy 75 degrees outside on Dec 23...Blake and I headed out to the lakehouse (in our short sleeves) to start the celebrating with the Parker family. Mom and Dad made a delish fajita spread and we all ate outside with the moon reflecting over Lake Lewisville. Then the games and cookie decorating began! We played several rounds of Apple to Apples - Dad's new favorite game - and it was really fun to watch everyone's personalities come out in the game. After that, we started making cookies! We haven't done this all together in several years... we usually all just bring desserts or make cookies ahead of time. It was really fun to start this tradition again, especially since next Christmas we will have a baby to help and the lakehouse will soon become Gigi and Poppa's house :)

Mom and the girls

Blake working extra hard on his gingerbread man

Blake was trying to eat my cookie while I decorated it

Jen and Mel...Rockin' the Bump! Isn't she a cute prego??

The next morning, Christmas Eve, I woke up like a giddy little school girl! It was SNOWING IN TEXAS ON CHRISTMAS (eve)!!! I LOVED it! I am pretty sure the first words out of Melissa mouth was, "I have never seen you in such a good mood this early in the morning, before your coffee!" Ha! I have to say I am a completely different person before and after coffee - but this was snow and snow trumps everything! Not only did it snow, but it snowed ALL DAY LONG! To the point where we opted out of the Christmas Eve service, but enjoyed at day inside...the guys playing cards, the girls cooking and watching movies. We had a fabulous dinner and then opened all the gifts! Everyone was SO generous! Thank you!

A morning snow!

The guys playing (probably cheating at) cards

Mom and Dad's gorgeous tree! and WAY too many gifts!

Blake and Heather Christmas 2009

The whole family

By nightfall, the snow was still coming down

and I had to post this pic....Blake doing ALL the Christmas dishes, with a happy heart! I love him!

December Catch Up!!

2010-01-06T16:06:00.008-05:00

Wow! December was definitely a BUSY month!!! So many fun times and memories made! To make it simple, here is just a brief run down with pictures :)

Dec 9 - Kambry was in town from London, so all the girls got together at La Duni and celebrated Noelle's birthday!!! I cherish my friendships with each one of these girls! We have been best friends since the good ole days of DDD at Baylor and the Delta Mansion :) Can't wait to see what is in store for each of us in 2010 - we already know one baby and one wedding will take place...what else??

Dec 12 - Burdett Tacky Christmas! This an anual tradition that I look forward to months in advance! There is always yummy food, great friends and HILARIOUS costumes. This year the Burdetts decided to start naming winners for the costumes...don't worry, the Holmans won this year with our footie pajamas! Best part: they were SOOOOO comfy!

With the McCords

all the girls

Dec 13 - Dallas White Rock Half Marathon! The very next day, B and I got up extra early, put on an extra layer of clothes and got to the starting line to run a quick 13.1 miles before breakfast :) This was my 9th half marathon! wow- can't wait to hit 10! It wasn't our best run - neither one of us trained very well for this one- but we still finished and are looking forward to the next one in March! No pics from this event - we had nothing on us, except a pair of car keys and ipods.

Dec 15 - Baylor Women's Council Holiday CHEER! - Such a great evening to visit with all the Dallas BU alums! You see friends you haven't seen in awhile, try great food/drinks - get recipes for ALL the treats and even door prizes! What a fun night!

Dec 16 - Patrizio's and the Rockettes! - As our Christmas celebration, Noelle, Regan, Leslie and I all got together to have a fabulous italian dinner with all the lights of HP Village and then off to the show! The Rockettes show was so fun! Those girls have some AMAZING legs and the most gorgeous costumes! I also LOVED the nativity scene they did at the end of the show- really incredible that they actually spoke from scripture and said the name Jesus in such a public setting. I think that is hard to find now-a-days. Most of the time people like to dance around the subject of our Savior's birth and the true meaning of Christmas, so it was a welcomed surprise to see it at the Rockettes show!

Dec 19 - Jen and Amy's BU Graduation! - can you believe it?? all of the Parker girls are finished at Baylor!!!! Mom and Dad were SO excited (to say the least)... they felt like they just got a HUGE raise :) To put 4 girls through Baylor tuition, living expenses, sorority dues, etc etc etc...that is a lot of $$$! Well, they are finally finished! Jen and Amy both graduated and looked gorgeous! We are SO SO SO proud of both of you and cannot wait to see what is in store for your futures! Jen has moved to Dallas and cannot wait to move into an apartment with her best friend, Megan, in Uptown! Watch out! These girls will take Dallas by storm!! Amy is packing up all her ski gear and warmest sweaters to move to Colorado Springs in just a few weeks! She will be attending the Focus on the Family Institute up there for the semester! I am secretly so jealous that she gets to go live in such a gorgeous part of the country - and ski her heart out! We love you! We are so proud of both of you!

Blake and I with Amy

Blake and I with Jen

Dec 22 - Dinner and Dessert with the Holloways!- YAY! The Holloways are some of our most treasured friends! We barely knew each other at Baylor- but we both moved to ATL at the same time and spent so many evenings laughing, drinking and confiding in each other. We watched them have their first little girl, Ellie and now they are about to welcome their son in March! They were back in TX for Christmas holidays and we LOVED getting to have dinner at Fireside Pies and dessert at I Heart Yogurt! We love yall and miss you! Thanks for making time to see us on your visit!

Such a sweet pic of Ellie...with just a little pizza sauce to accessorize

Christmas Parties Round #1

2009-12-07T17:56:00.010-05:00

This past weekend, Blake and I attended 3 FABULOUS Christmas parties! It was a whirlwind, but we had a blast! I LOVE to get all dressed up and go out...so this was the perfect weekend :)

Friday night started at my boss' house. The Armstrongs have a gorgeous home and opened it up to all of the reps in our district to celebrate a fantastic year! My boss, Lisa made peppermint martinis...yum yum! I definitely need to learn to make those! and we had some really great food and great fun!

Dru (OKC rep), Lisa (fabulous boss), Rachel (FW rep), me (Dallas rep)
Michelle (Dallas rep), Jessica (Houston rep)

And with spouses....poor Greg (Lisa's hubs) was taking all the pics

After we left the Armstrongs in Keller...we made our way over to Lake Highlands for the annual Gittemeier Christmas Party! Now these people really know how to throw a party! Tons and tons of our friends, beautiful decor, hilarious conversations and yummy drinks and food! Thanks for a great night!! I think we rolled into bed around 2:30-3:00!!!

Here is the beautiful hostess, Tricia

After some much needed sleep, we got ready for the Galderma Casino Night! I really think my company throws one of the BEST Holiday parties, ever! This year it was at the Omni in downtown Fort Worth. There are AMAZING door prizes (we are talking trips, flat screen TVs, etc), blackjack tables, craps tables, loads and loads of food, a photo booth, and one of the best cover bands ever! They go all out and we had a great time!

Happy December!

2009-12-01T11:04:00.002-05:00

WOW! We have a seriously busy December... as do most of you...but just thought I would share our schedule :)

1- Decorate for Christmas
3- Birthday Dinner for Tara @ Fernando's
4- Armstrong Christmas Party (6:30)/Gittemeier Christmas Party (8:00)/Melissa's Bday
5- Stratton Baby Shower/ Galderma Company Holiday Party
7- Christmas shopping
8- Baylor Women's Council Holiday Party
9 - Girls Dinner/Noelle's Bday Dinner @ La Duni
10- Business dinner @ Fearing's
11- Christmas date night with hubby
12- Burdett Tacky Christmas Party
13- White Rock Half Marathon
16- Girls Night Out to Patrizio's AND The Rockettes - SO EXCITED!
17- Business dinner @ 560
18- Jen and Amy's Graduation Dinner
19- Jen and Amy's Graduation/Tami's Christmas Party and Ornament Exchange
20 - Christmas in Henrietta with Blake's family
23-25 - Christmas at the lakehouse with the Parkers
25-27 - Christmas in Waco with the Holmans
31 - New Years Eve Party at our House!

WOW - I'm exhausted just looking at that....but it was good to write it out and see it on paper. These are ALL super fun things and I am so excited for this time of year! I love being busy and am so thankful to have so many friends and events to attend. Hope you all are having a fabulous first day of December.

I FINALLY updated the blog - check out the 2 new posts below

Thanksgiving 2009

2009-12-01T10:51:00.002-05:00

We had a fantastic Turkey Day with the Parkers this year! Thanksgiving might just be my favorite holiday. Its so great to just relax, eat yummy food, visit with family, and watch football! So much fun! I love that we get to celebrate at my parents beautiful lake house. It is so calming and quiet out there. We watched the Cowboys victory, enjoyed the beautiful weather and went to see the Blind Side- if you haven't seen it..go now!!! It is an amazing movie!

Melissa and Ryan with their little munchkin on the way - I can't wait to be an aunt (again) in April!

My sweet grandparents taking a walk after the BIG meal

Wish I gotten a pic of the whole family - we were just too busy enjoying each other to stop and take a group pic.

A visit to the Wine Country

2009-12-01T10:25:00.004-05:00

Back in October, Blake and I were invited to join some friends in Napa for a few days of relaxation and vino. Of course we accepted immediately and had the most wonderful trip! Our good friends from Atlanta, Matt and Paige, set up the entire trip. They had all of the reservations made, dinners set up, a limo for the week, etc! We literally just showed up and enjoyed ourselves! We adore the wine country and we adore the Camps - so it was just a perfect trip!

Enjoy the pics!

Baylor Homecoming 2009!

2009-11-02T22:04:00.004-05:00

Hendersons' Homecoming Party - Fri Night

Cheering for the Deltas 1st place act at Pigskin with Bonnie and Amy - Fri

Loved the brisk morning at the parade - Sat

Some of our FAVORITE Atlanta/Baylor friends- Cara and Ellie (baby #2 in utero...and Matt couldn't make it)

Loved having so many of my family member there...even if some of them are OSU fans :)

And finished it off with smores at the Puryears!

Ahhh...Baylor Homecoming! One of my favorite fall holidays! It doesn't get much better than seeing old friends, drinking coffee while you watch the parade floats roll by, an overflowing tailgating crowd, the Delta move at Pigskin and going to George's twice in one weekend! I heart BU Homecoming and can't wait for next year!

I Heart Football!

2009-10-12T15:00:00.003-04:00

If you know me at all, you know I really love football. I crave ESPN Game Day, love "ballgame food", tailgating and all the hype around Saturdays in the fall!

Our first year back in Texas, Blake and I knew we had to get season tickets to Baylor football. There was a lot of hype around our QB - RG3, who was supposed to be amazing- but unfortunately he injured his ACL in the home opener...bummer! Oh well, we are still loving Baylor football and so glad Baylor decided to embrace the whole tailgating scene. It has made Saturdays even more fun! So far, we are 3-2....here's to 3 more wins and making a bowl game this year :)

Sic 'Em - home opener

Tailgating before BU vs UConn

Tailgating with my sis before BU vs NW State

And if you didn't know, my parents and grandparents are HUGE OU fans! They have had season tickets since I was a baby. So naturally, this past weekend we all made the trip to Norman to watch the Bears fight the Sooners.
Most of the fam at the Sooner Club Tailgate

Blake and I sporting our green and gold in the middle of a crimson sea...

London Times

2009-10-09T11:02:00.006-04:00

Last week I was so excited to be able to travel across the big pond to London to visit my sweet friend Kambry! When Brian and Kambry found out that they were going to be transfered to London for 2 years....I immediately started planning my trip to visit. Unfortunately, Blake wasn't able to make this trip with me...he stayed home and worked to pay for me to go...thanks love :) Don't worry, B and I are already planning another trip together for next year!

So...I got to spend 6 fabulous days with one of my best friends in the world in one of the most fabulous cities in the world!

All through college, Kambry was my running buddy...we probably ran a dozen half marathons together. So naturally, we would run together in London...a good 4 miles around Hyde Park and then a yummy breakfast at the Serpantine
Then a fun walk through Notting Hill...and a gorgeous flower shop

And Buckingham Palace...

The next day we made a day trip to Windsor Castle to see where the Queen lives on the weekends...and of course stopped for tea

A trip to London wouldn't be complete without High Tea (at the Worseley) and a show (Wicked!)

The next day, we went on one of the most BEAUTIFUL hikes I have ever been on.... through the Cotswolds. We literally hiked from village to village. A total of 10 gorgeous miles on the English countryside :)

(a stop at the Horse and Groom pub for some refueling)

And on the last day, we strolled through London to see the sights...

I loved every minute of my time in London and can't wait to go back! Thanks for being such amazing hosts, Brian and Kambry!

3 Years and Trip South of the Border

2009-09-13T15:13:00.006-04:00

Last week Blake and I vacationed in Cabo San Lucas to celebrate our 3rd anniversary! It was such an amazing and relaxing trip! If you can't tell, one of our favorite things to do is travel and we always like to plan something around our anniversary...this one was close to perfect! We LOVED Cabo and decided it is definitely a place we will go back to. It is such an easy trip from Dallas and we got a great deal on the hotel we stayed at since this is low season in Mexico. We were a little scared the whole thing was going to be called off at the last minute when Hurricane Jimenea was targeted to hit...but fortunately, it wasn't nearly has bad as the media made it out to be and you couldn't even tell it rained by the time we got there.

The weather was hot....the drinks were cold...the food was yummy....and the water was gorgeous! I love you Blake! Happy Anniversary! Thank you for all that you do for me and I can't wait to see all the adventures we have in store for all the years to come! Enjoy the pics!

Blake is cheering on the Bears from Cabo! Sic Em!

Happy 3 years!

MOVING DAY!!!

2009-08-25T21:25:00.005-04:00

YAY!!! We move into our new house in Dallas on Friday!!! Lots to do before then.... but we are SO EXCITED! Feel free to come visit any time!

Home Sweet Home....Round 2 :) "The Heart of the City"- Dallas

We will always love Home Sweet Home Round 1 :) "The 'Burbs" -Atlanta

SAE Reunion Weekend!

2009-08-11T12:22:00.010-04:00

Last weekend, Blake's pledge class decided to get together for a ridiculously fabulous reunion weekend. It was very impressive that the guys planned the entire weekend and then invited the wifes to join them! So, Friday afternoon we made our way down to Lake Travis in Austin to get the party started.

Nick Little and his family was so generous to open up their A.M.A.Z.I.N.G lakehouse to us! They built this house last year and it was incredible! A very modern and "zen" house! EVERYTHING was electronic - from the window shades to the hidden tvs to the elevator that took us to the dock! It was GORGEOUS!! Here are some the best pics I could take of the property....

So when we got to the house- we were given a tour of the property...then all gathered around for a yummy italian dinner where all of the guys gave toasts and reminisced about the good ole college days. We then watch the old SAE rush video and finished the night with a late night dip in the pool and infinity hot tub!

Saturday morning rolled around and we were greeted with a full breakfast including my favorite...mimosas and bloody marys! Then we were off to the boats! It was a day full of wakeboarding, noodling, sun, adult beverages, music, lots of laughter and I can't forget the HUGE amazing swing off the dock! I was too afraid to jump... but others were much braver!

Heading down to the dock on the elevator!

Saturday night we were again spoiled with delicious bbq - followed by a hard core game of Guesstures and topped off by a ridiculous dance party and karaoke competition!

And we ended the weekend on Sunday with a good ole volleyball game and margaritas!

We had such an amazing time and it was so fun to watch Blake with all of his old friends all in one place! The wifes were SO FUN - and we all developed great friendships! We definitely think we married into the best frat at Baylor! By the end of the weekend we decided that this needs to be an annual event! So here's to SAE Reunion 2010! Phi Alpha!

Baseball in Style

2009-07-22T21:21:00.005-04:00

Now if you are going to go to a Rangers game in July in Texas....this is the way to do it. My company has a suite at the Ballpark in Arlington and had some extra tickets Monday night... so I called up the family and we made a night of it. They were playing the Red Sox and it was a great game! Several homeruns, beautiful evening, great company. Thanks Galderma! I wouldn't mind using the suite a few more times before the season is over. Colton was even in town and got in on the action!

PS- check out the other 2 posts below...I am finally caught up!

I Heart Summer!

2009-07-22T21:04:00.005-04:00

Last weekend Blake and I were invited to a getaway weekend at the Booker's home. Ben Booker is my little sis' super fun boyfriend and we love hanging out with them. So when they invited us to come hang out at his parents vacation-style home....we happily accepted. We spent the entire weekend laying out at their pool and hot tub. You seriously feel like you are on vacation at their house... constantly flowing margarita machine, tiki hut, yummy food, serious relaxation etc. We had a blast!

Sunday we hit up the Brazos River for some boating action and more wakeboarding courtesy of Jimmy "The Rock"

July Overview

2009-07-22T20:19:00.009-04:00

Ok...in all honesty, I misplaced the USB cord that connects my camera to our laptop! AHHHH!!! Never fear- I found it! So instead of writing 6 different posts, I thought I would just do an overview of the past several weeks. So prepare yourself for a little bit longer of a post :)

First of all, several weeks ago, Blake and I went to the Eric Clapton/Steve Winwod concert! A.M.A.Z.I.N.G! This is the second time we have seen Clapton - he holds a very special place in our hearts... "our song" and our first dance at our wedding was "Wonderful Tonight"... so we LOVE E.C.!!! And Steve Winwood was just the icing on the cake :)

It was SOOOOO HOT that night!

Good thing the concert was indoors!

Next up....Atlanta! While we were back in the ATL we got to have dinner with our great GREAT friends, The Camps! We absolutely adore them and love every time we get to spend with them! We could talk all night long and yall kept us laughing the entire night! Love yall! Can't wait to see you again in October for a little Napa action :)

Celebrating the 4th! Loads and loads of food, fun, family, friends, fireworks, lake, wakeboarding, etc etc etc.

Breaking out the margarita machine!

My contribution for the weekend

A serious game of badmitton

That's all for that post....one more to come tonight!

July 9, 2004

2009-07-09T20:51:00.003-04:00

On this exact day five years ago, Blake and I went on our "2nd First Date!" Now, I am sure most of you are wondering what a "2nd First Date" is. Well, let me just explain. Our actual first date was back in 2000, when we were young 18 year olds- freshman at Baylor. In fact, we both remember it pretty well- we went to see "Remeber the Titans" :) Well, we had a great time, but nothing really seemed to click at that point. So... we remained really good friends for the next 4 years - running into each other often, talking, lunch dates every once and while...nothing too big.

Flash forward to graduation night, May 2004. Blake was leaving the next morning for Baylor in Cuba. By the time he got back from Cuba - I would be in Michigan on a training assignment for work for the next 4 months. He came over to my apartment LATE LATE that night. We had a long talk - he told me he had feelings for me and he would call me as soon as he got back from Cuba. I half way believed him. But sure enough, the day he got home- he called. We talked off and on for the next several weeks. Remember - Blake was in Texas.... I was in Michigan!

Well, July rolled around and I had made plans to come back to Texas for a weekend to see family and go to Ashley Spitzer/Nathan Kavanaugh's wedding. I told Blake I was coming back and he asked if he could meet me up in Fort Worth and take me on a "REAL" date. I still remember to this day, telling my parents it wasn't a big deal - we were mostly just friends. But little did I know, that that date on July 9, 2004 would change my life. I fell head over heels for Michael Blake Holman! We had the best time in downtown FW - went to Mi Cocina, listened to some live music and went to see Anchorman :) After that night.... the rest was history! We both knew we would do anything to make this long-distance relationship work. And it did. This summer we will celebrate our 3rd wedding anniversary! God has an amazing plan for our lives. It is so fun to watch it play out!

I don't have a picture from the night of our "2nd First Date"...but here is one from the following winter.

I have some old pics of B and I from summer 2004 - just can't seem to find them right now. I will enlighten you to all of those at another time. I would say 9 is our lucky number though....
"2nd First Date" - 7.9.04
Engagement - 1.19.06
Wedding - 9.9.06

Some much needed good news!!

2009-06-24T22:40:00.002-04:00

Yes! That is correct, we have some REALLY good news on our house in Atlanta!! About 2 weeks ago B and I came to the realization that the housing market in Atlanta is just not getting any better and that we would probably be better off renting the house for a year or two, until the market turns around. So we listed the house to lease and within one week we had 3 offers!!! Holy smokes!

We chose one couple, who made a great offer and they want to move in July 1!!! From what we can tell, they will take good care of our first home. They are an older couple from Miami that is looking to retire in Georgia...but they want to live in the area for a year before they make any final decisions. It is good to know they most likely will not be throwing any raging parties at the house!

Since the family wants to move in 7 days, that means B and I need to book it out to ATL to get the rest of our furniture and make the final move back to TX! So this is my schedule for the next 4 days:

Thursday - full day of work... 6:00- biggest business dinner of the year (with my boss, my boss' boss and 10 of the most high profile dermatologists in Dallas - not to mention the speaker we are flying in from across the country!)
Friday - 5:00 am - leave for the airport... 6:15 am - flight to ATL... land, pick up rental car, go get 26' Penske moving truck... finish packing the little stuff we left at the house... dinner with ATL friends!
Saturday - 8:00 am - movers arrive - load the truck... 3:00 pm (hopefully) - begin the 12+ hour journey from Atlanta to Dallas in a HUGE truck.
Sunday - late morning/early afternoon - arrive in Dallas... unload truck... in 105 degree heat!!!

This should be quite the adventure! Good thing B and I like road trips and have done many of them... and we will have loads and loads of good talking time, since there won't be XM radio in the truck! Haha! Wish me luck!

We are so excited to finally be "finished" with our ATL home for at least a year. We can revisit the whole idea to sell the house again next summer and hopefully have better results. But as for now, we are so glad to finally be able to get settled in Dallas! We have already started looking at houses here and I have my eyes set one in particular :)

I'll keep yall updated on how the final move goes! At least I get to drive half way across the country with my best friend! Wouldn't want it any other way!!

KING GEORGE!

2009-06-18T18:47:00.006-04:00

That's right, ladies and gentlemen.... on June 6, 2009 Blake and I witnessed history!!!! In one unbelievably fabulous event we attended the FIRST event at the A.M.A.Z.I.N.G Cowboys Stadium as we watched the KING and QUEEN of country music preform! Yes... I am talking about George Strait and Reba McEntire! Holy Cow (boy)!!!! I am not sure I can even describe this event.... but I will do my best.

Many, many, many months ago, I got a call from by big sis...Melissa. "Hey Heather, would you and Blake like to go to the George Strait concert in June?" "Sure, Mel... sounds great!" Lets just keep in mind that when Mel and I were little bitty, we used to dance all night long with our dad to George. I can VERY VIVIDLY remember either being held by my dad as I wore his cowboy hat and we danced to "Amarillo by Morning" or standing on his shoes as we TRIED to 2-step to "All My Exes Live in Texas." Awwwww.... the memories! I wish I had a scanner with me right now... the pictures would be priceless :) So needless to say, George Strait holds a very special place in my heart! And Reba... oh, Reba... She is just fabulous! I am not even sure how old she is...but she looks like a million bucks!!! Such the entertainer!

So on June 6 - it was very fitting that ALMOST all the Parker girls and our "boys" along with Mom and Dad met up for the event of a lifetime! That's right.... Melissa, Ryan, Heather, Blake, Jennifer, Ben, Tina and Tom all made it together! We desperately missed Amy...she is the smart one of the group...taking the LSAT the very next day!

In true Texas fashion, we tailgated! Ryan whipped out the grill and cooked up some yum-o burgers; we had spinach dip, hummus, cold beer, wine, homemade salsa...what could be better? We hung out (in the 95 degree heat) and admired Jerry World from a distance!

A couple of hours later....it was time for THE event! We made our way to Cowboys Stadium! You MUST see this in person! It really is unbelievable! Jerry really outdid himself! At one point, while walking through the stadium we found ourselves in what looked like a Miami club - I am talking white leather couches, lighted curtains, etc! Jerry might rethink the white couches later on- I would not like to clean those after a Cowboy game :)

LeeAnn Wolmack kicked off the show, followed by Blake Shelton ( I am a new fan of his...cutie), then Reba and George. The concert started at 5:30...and didn't end until 11:30!!! W.O.W! Our seats were a little high up...but I am telling you there is not a bad seat in this entire building! Especially when there is a 70 yard long HD video screen in front of you! HA!

And don't worry that once George came on stage...he was able to get the entire stadium chanting.... "Jerry, open the roof...Jerry, open the roof!!!" So what was Jerry to do - but open the roof.....first time it had ever been opened at the new stadium!

This really was one of the most memorable events of my life and I am so thankful that Mel is so on top of things and got a tickets to this amazing event!!! So fun!

The Kvasnickas!!!

2009-06-02T21:07:00.007-04:00

We just spent a great weekend in Waco celebrating the Kvasnickas! Justin and Leslie had the most beautiful wedding! They are an absolutely fantastic couple and we had so much fun celebrating! Thank you for letting us being a part of such a special event!!! Can't wait to hang out when yall get back from Mexico!

The weekend started on Friday with a manicure party....
The beautiful bride :)

Next on the list was a super fun rehearsal dinner at our favorite Waco joint - George's!! We sure learned a lot more about Justin that night :)

Saturday was the BIG DAY and we all had a great time at the Bridal Luncheon and it was off to get pretty and watch the vows take place - then off to really party at the reception!

Congrats Justin and Leslie!!!!

One of the best parts of the weekend was getting to see Ellie!!! I can't believe how big she has gotten...such a sweet little lady!

Memorial Day 2009!!

2009-06-02T20:39:00.005-04:00

We had a really fabulous Memorial Day this year! It started out on Friday when Blake and I headed up to OKC to watch the Baylor Bears play in the Big 12 tournament. Ben did great and the Bears beat Texas!! We checked out Bricktown - very cool area in OKC - saw my sweet cousins and got in a lot of baseball!

with Mom and Jen

Ben is #0!

Dad, Blake, Uncle Doug

Then it was back to Big D for some time on the lake and Leslie's Bachelorette party :)

Joe T's!!! Yum Yum!!

Mother's Day!

2009-05-28T14:47:00.002-04:00

Ok, so I am a little behind on posts....none the less, my sister threw a FABULOUS Mother's Day Luncheon! She really did a great job and we were so thrilled to be able to celebrate both our mom and Mel's mom-in-law. Thanks for a great day Mel!
Mom, I love you to pieces and am so thankful for our friendship! You are the best friend and mom a girl could ask for and I don't know where I would be without you!

Melissa's beautiful table set up

The Secret - Courtesy of Meme

2009-05-04T20:39:00.002-04:00

The Secret
One day, one friend asked another,
"How is it that you are always so happy?
You have so much energy,
and you never seem to get down."
With her eyes smiling, she said,
"I know the Secret!"
"What secret is that?"
To which she replied,
"I'll tell you all about it,
but you have to promise to
share the Secret with others."
"The Secret is this:
I have learned there is little I can do
in my life that will make me truly happy.
I must depend on God to make
me happy and to meet my needs.
When a need arises in my life,
I have to trust God to supply
according to HIS riches.
I have learned most of the time
I don't need half of what I think I do.
He has never let me down.
Since I learned that 'Secret', I am happy."
The questioner's first thought was,
"That's too simple!"
But upon reflecting over his own life
he recalled how he thought a bigger house
would make him happy, but it didn't!
He thought a better paying job
would make him happy, but it hadn't.
When did he realize his greatest happiness?
Sitting on the floor with his grandchildren,
playing games, eating pizza or reading a story,
a simple gift from God
Now you know it too!
We can't depend on people to make us happy.
Only GOD in His infinite wisdom can do that.
Trust HIM!

And now I pass the Secret on to you!
So once you get it, what will you do?

Here's to 27!

2009-05-04T15:57:00.005-04:00

Yesterday was my 27th birthday!! Woohoo!! I had the most amazing birthday weekend....Blake really outdid himself! Have I ever told you how much he spoils me? Well, let me just explain how my birthday weekend went....

Friday afternoon Blake told me to pack a bag. Hmmm...what should I pack in this bag? Lots of cute outfits, a dress or two, and a swimsuit. Then he whisks me off to yummy Mi Cocina in HP Village...one of my favs! We enjoy fajitas and ritas and a little shopping at Anthro to top it off!

Then off to the next destination....where we would spend the rest of the weekend...

A weekend at the super chic and fun "W" Hotel!!! It was nothing short of fabulous! The weather did not cooperate as much as would have liked and the ultimate pool scene was a no go. But we did get to sleep in, have mimosas and go see a movie.
Later that night, we got all dressed up and headed over to Sambuca for great food, great music and even a little dancing.

Then on Sunday, the partying continued. We met JT and Noelle for brunch at Ozonas :) Yum!

We enjoyed the rest of the afternoon watching the Mavs, walking around a park and relaxing. The last big surprise was huge birthday dinner with all my favorite people! Lots of friends: Michelle and Eric, Kambry and Brian, Amy and Brandon, Tara, Joanna and Justin (and Pierce) Lots of family: Mom and Dad, Melissa and Ryan (fresh off the plane from Hawaii), Burson and Blair (and Cooper and Mason)!

Mom and Dad even brought me a yummy yummy cake from Raspberries 'n' Creme!! It was gorgeous!

Thanks to all who helped me celebrate - I had a fantastic birthday AND thank you baby for all your hard work and planning! I love you! Here's to 27

Control

2009-04-28T21:33:00.002-04:00

God has definitely been teaching me some serious lessons lately. For the past several months, control has been a huge issue that I have been dealing with. There are so many things that I want control over. I want our house in Atlanta to sell; I want to buy a house in Dallas; I want to kick booty at work; I want Blake to love his job; I want B and I's relationship to be perfect; I want it all... and I am slowing realizing that God is teaching me to just let go and let Him be in control.

When we were first analyzing the opportunity to move back to Texas - B and I prayed constantly. We prayed that no matter how the situation worked out- whether we moved home or stayed in Georgia - that we would just be content. And when we were given the OK to move back - we were overjoyed!! But it hasn't been as smooth as we anticipated. And I think that is mostly due to the fact that we quit relying on God to help us through this time. We tried to do it all ourselves. We do have a lot of stressors on our plates right now - we are trying to sell a house in a TERRIBLE economy and housing market; we both started new jobs with new bosses, and new relationships; we are around family and friends A LOT more (which is such a good thing and such a blessing... but it means less B & H time...which is not something we are used to); we are trying to figure out our living situation in Dallas; we are living at my parents' (which again is fabulous and has really helped us financially.... but it is not OURS and I miss having a house of my own...); etc, etc, etc. These are all things that I have been trying to control and have been getting so frustrated and depressed when I cannot get them to work out. I think I have come close to hitting my breaking point - which I always felt like that would be hard to do. I have always done well under pressure and pride myself on my reactions to stressful situations. But not this time. This time it is different. This time God is getting my attention, whether I want Him to or not.

So after a good long run this evening, I sat out on the back porch, looked at the beautiful lake God created and prayed. I sat out there for a long time. I thought about all that was going on and prayed that God would take the burden of control off of my shoulders. I asked Him to take control - to let me relax and enjoy this life and not constantly worry about what is next. I know He has perfect timing and always has our best in mind. I know this too will pass. And I know it is all going to work out.. one way or another. I asked God to give me patience through this time. To calm my heart and ease my stress. I asked Him to help me be a better wife... a happy wife and to find the joys in the little things. In the end, in the grand scheme of things, we are SO completely BLESSED and I now have much more of a peace about things. It is a struggle and I know I will continue to struggle with this, but at least I know I have Someone on my side who is willing to carry the burden for me.

A Birthday, A Girls Night, and A Going Away Party...Oh My!!

2009-04-28T20:51:00.007-04:00

Well, we had quite a weekend again this week! Loads and loads of family, fun and friends! We started the weekend on Friday heading southbound 35 to good ole Waco. We hit up yet another BU baseball game (3rd weekend in a row!!! I am totally getting spoiled) and hanging out with my little sis-Jen and her roomie, Megs! Love Love Love these girls! They totally make me laugh and they make me feel young and like I am still in college sometimes :)

Saturday morning the festivities began to help celebrate Meme's 80th birthday!!! WOW!!! What a big birthday to celebrate! I adore Meme! She is the best grandma and so much fun! Not only is she more computer saavvy than me, but she even has a facebook page...hehe. And she reads my blog religiously, which I love :) She also daily takes care of Gramps, helps out Aunt Nancy and can even keep up with all her great-grands! Hope you had so much fun Meme!!! Happy Birthday!

As soon as the party was winding down, I jetted back up to Fort Worth for GIRLS NIGHT!!! My bestie friends all get together at least once a year for a slumber party and loads of catching up! We had a great time this year at a fun and frivolous house in FW. Regan was house-sitting for a couple of weeks and we got to tag along for a day or two. We laid out, had some cocktails, watched old wedding videos, and shared life with each other! I absolutely adore my friends and cherish the unique relationship that I have with each one of them! Thanks for always being there for me ladies! I heart each one of you!!!

And then finally the weekend ended at an all time favorite restaurant, Joe T Garcia's to celebrate Brian and Kambry! They are taking a fabulous opportunity to live in London for 2 years! We are going to miss them desperately, but are so so so excited for them! B and I can't wait to come visit!!

What-A-Weekend!!

2009-04-20T11:27:00.004-04:00

Blake and I just got back from an eventful and fun-filled weekend! It all started on Friday night with a great double date with my sister and BIL, Melissa and Ryan!! We had some yummy Italian and then saw "I Love You, Man." (quite hilarious and crude) - but we did laugh A LOT!! Love you M & R!!!

Saturday morning we headed up to the great state of OKLAHOMA!!! We made up to Stillwater just in time to see the Bears play the OK State Cowboys! I love baseball games and I really love Baylor Baseball games!

Saturday night we headed back into OKC and had a wonderful date night with Emily and Robbie! Emily is my best friend from high school. We don't get to see each other very often, but also pick up right where we left off when we do get together. It was fun for our hubbies to get to join in on the reminiscing also! The main reason for the whole trip to OK was to celebrate the upcoming birth of E & R's son, Griffin!! Griffin will be here the end of May and we CANNOT wait to meet him! We had a great shower for Emily and Griffin on Sunday! They walked away with some really great stuff and I can just see Griffin being the next best athlete to go to OU (one day). Love you Em!!! Can't wait to see you as a mommy very very soon!
PS- Emily might be the most precious prego I have ever seen!!!! All belly and still so tiny! Just adorable!

On a side note.... HAPPY HAPPY BIRTHDAY MEME!!! Today Meme turns 80 years old!!! If you have ever met Blake's grandma, Meme, you would have no idea she was 80- she still acts like she is in her 20s! I love you Meme and can't wait to celebrate with you next weekend!

Easter Weekend!!

2009-04-16T14:50:00.006-04:00

Last weekend, Blake and I traveled southbound 35 to good ole Waco to spend Easter weekend with the Holmans. It was such a fun and relaxing weekend. We hit up the Baylor baseball field for a couple of games, not only to support our alma mater, but also to support my lil' sis' boyfriend, Ben Booker (left fielder). Baylor won the series!! Woohoo!! We also got to catch up with Noelle and JT! So fun that some of our best friends have parents in Waco too!

Jen, me and Noelle

Ben and Jennifer (aren't they cute?)

Sunday morning threatened to ruin Easter with strong thunderstorms.......BUT...... it did not work! We had a BEAUTIFUL Easter!! We went to church with the Holmans, then Sherrie cooked a yummy yummy lunch and we spent the rest of the day watching the Masters. This is the first year in 4 years that B and I weren't at the Masters in person. Bummer! We sure missed it!
Easter morning

Hope yall all had fabulous weekends celebrating our Risen Lord!!

A Few of My Favorite Things...

2009-03-30T17:05:00.011-04:00

I thought I would take some time to share some of my all-time favorite things with my fellow blogging friends. They are in no particular order but these are some of my MUST-HAVES/CANNOT LIVE WITHOUTS!

1. Hudson Jeans

If you know me, you know i LOVE designer jeans. I truly feel like they are worth the money and I have a deep passion for them! I think they make a huge difference and can be quite flattering :) Hudsons are my new obsession! They fit just right...form fitting to the rear, but not tight! They have the back pocket button flaps, but they are not bulky pockets (you know- some kinds can make the rear look bigger than you want) On a side note... in case you didn't know, the best way to wash jeans is inside out. It keeps them from wearing out in the wash too quickly.

2. The Biggest Loser

I absolutely cannot get enough of this show! It is inspiring, dramatic, encouraging and makes you want to go for a 5 mile run during commercials. There are times that I wish they had a reality show for people that were not overweight, but just wanted to get "ripped up" with a super hard core trainer...and that is all that you had to focus on all day. I love both Jillian and Bob....but if I had to choose, I would choose Jillian to be my trainer.. I need someone to really kick my booty when I am at the gym. I LOVE LOVE LOVE to watch the finale of this show every season - seeing the incredible transformation these people make is unbelievable. And I am not going to lie... I usually cry at least once during the 2 hour episode each week. LOVE IT!

3. Jillian Michaels' 30 Day Shred

Well, since I can't be on the Biggest Loser, the best I can do is bring Jillian Michaels home with me. Jillian has several books and DVDs out to get even the best of us into shape. I have got to tell you that this workout is KICKING MY TAIL! I love that it is only 20-25 minutes, but it is NON-STOP!!! 3 minutes of strength, 2 minutes of cardio, 1 minute of abs....repeat! There are 3 different levels, so can bump it up if you aren't feeling challenged. She gives you HARD CORE movements and no resting. Trust me when I say this is an intense workout. I have run many half marathons and a full marathon in my lifetime. I like to think I am in pretty good shape and always prefer a tougher workout. This is fitting perfectly into my rotation. Since we are living out at the lake right now and there isn't exactly a gym close by, I am rotating between The Shred, 2-4 mile runs around the neighborhood and yoga. I think it is working out so far and will hopefully get me ready for this later this summer :)

4. Kellogg's Fiber Plus Antioxidants Bar AND Fiber One Bars

YUM! YUM! YUM! Many of you health nuts know this, but just in case... Fiber is an essential part of any diet! The greatest thing about fiber is that it fills you up! Seriously...you can eat one of these bars as breakfast, a snack, dessert, sometimes even an on the go meal and it yum yum filling! Most of these bars have around 130 calories, 4 grams of fat and 9 whole whoppin' grams of FIBER! That is 35% of what you are supposed to have per day. That's a lot! I like to eat the Fiber One Bars for breakfast ~ Oats and Apple Streusel is my favorite~ and Fiber Plus for snacks/dessert ~Dark Chocolate with Almond is my favorite! Check them out!

5. Kerastase

Ok, so I have to admit it REALLY helps when your mom owns a salon and spa that sells Kerastase, because this stuff can get a little pricey...BUT... IT IS AMAZING! My hair has never felt better! My hair smells so good, is so soft and shiny and it has VOLUME! I have lots of hair, but it is fine... so mi madre hooked me up with all the goodies that will give me the shine and body that I need without weighing my hair down! I.LOVE.IT! No matter what type of hair you have, Kerastase has the perfect products for your hair! I truly believe it makes a big difference!

6. Tyler Candles

No big surprise here... loads and loads of people enjoy the amazingness of these fab candles! You can find them in lots of boutiques and shops. My favorite smells are the original "Tyler"~ great for any room or any time of year. This one always reminds me of my friend, Paige's house...she ALWAYS has one burning.. the next is a little harder to find "Mulled Cider" ~perfect for the fall months... and the appropriately named, Diva~my sister really loves this one and she turned me on to it!

7. Costco!

So my mom was in town last weekend and needed to make a run to Costco. I have got to admit... I'm not sure I have ever really even been in a Costco! CRAZY, I KNOW!!! I remember going to Sam's when I was little... but not Costco! Let me just explain the difference... Sam's is like Walmart, Costco is like TARGET!!!! Very similiar, but very different too! I.LOVE.COSTCO!! This place in unbelievable! You can find ANY and EVERYTHING you could ever imagine! You can have lunch there, watch a movie, eat sample after sample of yummy food, buy furniture, appliances, wine, flowers, get your Rx filled, and all for discounted prices and in BULK if you choose. I don't know why, but I could probably spend every Sunday afternoon at Costco and never get bored! While mom and I were there we picked up some incredible Mahi Mahi and Twiced Baked Potatoes for dinner! Blake was most impressed...and so was I :) Membership here we come!!!

8. Skinny Girl Margarita

Last but certainly not least....The Skinny Girl Margarita!! O-M-G!!! This is by far my all-time favorite summer drink. Ok, lets be honest...not just summer drink- anytime drink! If you have ever seen the show Real Housewives of NYC, then you know exactly what I am talking about! Bethanny from this show is a professional chef and she created this fantastic lo-cal drink. The hubs and I have a serious love for margaritas...BUT a regular margarita at a restaurant can have upwards of 750 calories!!! Are you kidding me?? WOW! Only an indulgence one should partake in sparingly. However, the skinny girl margarita is closer to 250 calories! I can definitely manage that more often :) Here is the recipe... I will post Bethanny's and also my tweeks.

The Skinny Girls Margarita
On the Rocks
What you’ll need:
* 2 oz of clear Tequila (100% agave, Patron Silver)
(count 1, 2 while you pour, no need for measuring)
* A splash of fresh lime juice
* A splash of Cointreau, Grand Marnier or Triple Sec
Combine all ingredients over a glass of ice
Garnish with a lime wedge and salt (or sugar) if you’d like.
Makes one serving

** This recipe can be pretty strong, so I add in some Crystal Light Lemonade as well to tone it down a little. But notice, no additional sugar or salt in this recipe really helps with the caloric intake! Add it to your next party or homemade happy hour!**
Check out Bethanny's youtube video if you would like additional explanation...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rHtrFXb1s40

Ok..that is all from me for now, be checking back for multiple additions to this post...but now it's your turn! I challenge you to share some of you favorites with the rest of us :)

Shower of Love!

2009-03-20T12:24:00.005-04:00

Last weekend, a bunch of us girls got together to help celebrate the soon-to-be Kvaznickas!! We had a great "Boots and Burgers" shower with the infamous "Burger Man" catering! We all had a great time and are super excited about the BIG DAY in MAY!! Enjoy the pics...

The cute couple opening gifts - Leslie and Justin

my girls... Noelle and Michelle

The decor

More decor

The hostess with the cute couple

My cute mommy friends- Joanna and Cara (with no babies tonight!)

The Bride!

And last but not least...with the hubs...right after BU beat UT in the Big 12 tournament! Go Bears!

Our View From the Dinner Table Tonight

2009-03-02T19:59:00.003-05:00

It doesn't get much better than this! Add some Poppy Seed Chicken and a glass of wine and it's a perfect evening!

Seriously?? A Bird?

2009-03-02T11:22:00.004-05:00

Last week, Blake was heading out for work and I was giving him a kiss and sending him out the door, when all of the sudden a BIRD flew in the house!!! Yes, you read that correctly... A BIRD FLEW IN THE HOUSE!!! I mean, seriously... what kind of bird would rather be inside than out?? What makes a bird want to fly inside a house?? The only thing I can think of is this..... let me just explain that my dad LOVES to hunt. Whether it is in Africa, Montana, South Texas, Alaska, Wyoming.... you name it, Dad has been there and hunted! So needless to say, the lakehouse is filled with all of Dad's trophies. Here is a glimpse of what the great room at the lakehouse looks like...

You get the idea... and I guess the bird got confused!

So the only thing I can think of is that the bird thought it was still outside...with all the animals, it can be confusing! Well, bottom line, it took 3 hours to get the bird out of the house!!! I was trying to leave for work... crying... just wanting the stupid bird to fly out the door. I mean, I couldn't leave the bird in the house all day while we were at work, especially with Chance home also. Like I said after 3 hours... he finally got the idea and flew off to be with his friends in the REAL outdoors again!!!
Here's a pic of the bird on top of the caribou...where he spent most of the 3 hours!

Cooper turns 3!!

2009-03-02T11:09:00.004-05:00

Our sweet little nephew turns 3 today!! He had a great party this weekend and celebrated with lots of friends!!! He is growing up so fast and is constantly surprising us!!

Blake and I with Cooper and Mason!

Mason is almost walking on his own... but we might need to get him a lawnmower soon - rather than the pink stroller!

Cooper LOVING every bite of his cake

Lots of fun gifts and friends

Happy Birthday sweet boy!

One Proud Wife!

2009-03-02T11:02:00.003-05:00

I have to say that I am so proud of my hubby!! He landed a new job AND promotion with a great insurance company here in Dallas! In this economy that is not a small fete! He started last week and is enjoying the new office and getting back in the groove! Congrats baby!! Thanks for all the prayers as we are starting our new life in Big D!

Happy Day of Love!

2009-02-15T20:39:00.012-05:00

I have got to take this opportunity to big-time brag on my amazing husband! He totally spoils me more than I deserve! He made this one of the most romantic and special Valentine's Days EVER!

He started off the day by getting up early and making my favorite coffee... it was so yummy and smelled so good that I couldn't stay in bed much longer.

Then we spent the whole day relaxing and watching movies, enjoying each other and this great day of love :)

My man then treated me to a fantastic dinner at Giovanni's...yum! Then we went to a piano bar and enjoyed some live music! It was the most romantic evening! He always does such a great job of making me feel like a princess!

Just when I thought our perfect Valentine's had come to an end...my hubby had one more surprise for me...
You see, Blake and I don't normally do gifts for Valentine's Day. It is so close to Christmas and birthdays, that we have always just said that flowers and a nice dinner is MORE than plenty. Well, Blake didn't exactly follow those rules this year. When we got back to the house, we exchanged cards and inside my card was a several-page letter that listed 100 Reasons Why I Love You!! Blake read me each and every one of them... so sweet and so special. I love him so much... it meant the world to me!

And then...the final surprise... was this...

A GORGEOUS David Yurman ring!!! He completely picked it out all by himself and I LOVE IT!!! I was totally surprised and could not believe he did that! It is beautiful!!!!

So there you have it!!! My fabulous husband and how special he makes me feel every day!
Blake, my love...
I love you more than I could ever express to you! You make me a better person and you have taught me so many things! You are the first person I have ever truly loved and I feel so lucky that you chose me to spend the rest of your life with. I love every day I spend with you... Thank you for making me feel like a princess!

Man's Best Friend....

2009-02-13T20:51:00.004-05:00

How amazingly cute is the this guy?? Meet Chance!! This is my parents' adorable labradoodle! We have been keeping him the last couple of weeks and he is the BEST dog ever! Blake and I have been talking about getting a dog in the near future and I think Chance might be spoiling us lately. He is the best companion ever... never disturbs anything and always wants to be close to you! He is so much fun and had definitely made us want a dog to add to our family as well! The problem now is determining WHAT kind of dog..... I would love to have a labradoodle; Blake would prefer a golden retriever or lab...hmmm... maybe Chance will help me convince Blake to get a 'doodle!

Mavs Game!!!

2009-02-13T20:32:00.004-05:00

For Christmas, my little sis, Amy gave us tickets to a Mavs game to welcome us back to Texas! She also gave some to my older sis, Melissa and her hubby, Ryan... so we all got to go together! It was so much fun.. Mel and I mostly talked the ENTIRE time and the Mavs won! Couldn't have been a better night!...Until some really terrible storms came through TX and OK and by the time the game was over the announcer was telling everyone to stay inside and not leave the building due to high winds and dangerous weather!!! AHHHHH....so what did we do? We proceeded to LEAVE the building and RUN to the car!!!! IN HEELS!!!! Not easy or fun... but we laughed our way through it and had some interesting pics afterwards :) Haha! All in all, we had a BLAST and all got home safely!! Thanks Amy!

Me and Mel during the game

with the Hubs!

And then after the game!

Mel and Ryan - post run in the rain!

Breckenridge 2009!!

2009-02-09T14:50:00.006-05:00

Blake and I just got back from our first annual Holman/Cavazos ski trip! We had a blast with one of our favorite couples (Peter and Tara) in Breckenridge! It was just a short little trip.. but we were able to get in 2 1/2 days of some really fabulous skiing. The first 2 days were absolutely beautiful! Sunny skies, little wind, and not too cold... Day #3 brought a blizzard that was extremely cold and very little visibility. It really was a great trip with great friends and we can't wait to do it again next year! Blake and I hadn't been skiing in several years, so it was nice to know we could pick it right back up and we came home with NO injuries! I think snow skiing is one of those activities that you forget how much you like it until you do it again! We loved it!

We had a fantastic location that was ski in/ski out and walking distance to Main Street where all the restaurants and shops are! We couldn't have picked a better place and enjoyed some really great food while we were there as well.

I LOVE GIRLS NIGHTS!

2009-02-09T14:43:00.004-05:00

Not too long ago, all my best girls got together for great food, great drinks and really great convo! It is so nice to be back closer to these girls and be able to catch up with everything that is going on in our busy lives! Can't wait for many more nights like these! Love you girls!

Total Neglection...

2009-01-28T20:02:00.005-05:00

Ok, ok... I will admit I have been a TERRIBLE blogger lately. There really hasn't been a good reason for not blogging, other than I just haven't been motivated to do it... I know that is an awful excuse. I do promise to do a better job and hopefully add some more thought-provoking posts as well. Also, be on the lookout for a random post or two from the sweet hubs, Blake.

For now, here is just a little update on the Holman household....

- the house is officially on the market (please pray for the perfect family to buy our house... and quickly)

- I spent a week in Orlando for a business meeting

- Blake and I were finally reunited after 2 weeks of being apart... way more difficult than I thought it would be! I love my hubby time!

- I started a new position with my company- still a drug rep, just new doctors and territory AND I went part-time... I am totally LOVING part-time, so far.

- I started working out again...I'm doing the Jillian Michaels' 30 day shred. We will see how this goes... but so far, it has really kicked my butt! If you don't know who Jillian Michaels is...she is one of the trainers on The Biggest Loser (one of my favorite shows!) I'll keep you updated on how it is going and if I am seeing a difference. I am not really trying to lose weight (maybe 5 pounds), just really wanting to tone up!

- Had a lunch date with Jo and sweet little Pierce!

- Saw Bride Wars and Deviance.... both great movies...VERY different plots!

- Added Slumdog Millionare and Gran Torino to my list of movies I want to see.

- Blake and I went to Edmond to visit my mom's new spa, Bella Strada and she treated us to massages, a facial, mani/pedi and hair treatments! Thanks Bella... it was fabulous- can't wait to come back! AND saw my awesome cousins play basketball!

- Spent a great Sunday afternoon in Henrietta with Meme and Gramps, Aunt Nancy, John, Lacy and Aubrey!

- Blake celebrated 27 years of life!! We went to a fantastic dinner at Del Frisco's with the Holmans...thanks for a great night out!

- We had a double date night with my sis and bro-in-law, Melissa and Ryan!

- We planned a ski trip with the Cavazos' and leave one week from tomorrow! Breckenridge, here we come!

- Found out one of my best friends is moving to London!!! Already started to plan a trip to come visit and possibly run the London marathon...ha!

SO there you have it. We have done lots and are really enjoying being back in Tejas!! Be checking back for many more updates!

08 was GREAT but I think 09 will be DIVINE!

2009-01-03T18:31:00.004-05:00

We spent New Years Eve this year with Camps at their really fabulous cabin in the North Georgia mountains. It was such a great night- Paige cooked a yummy dinner - lamb, roasted potatoes, beans, and Blake's favorite, bananas foster! We watched some football, toasted to the new year, then put on swimsuits and hopped in the pseudo-hot tub (their enormous bath tub) to enjoy some more wine and sweet tea vodka! It was the perfect night and followed by a perfect start to 09!

With a new year comes new adventures and as you all know, the biggest adventure for the Holmans this year is going to be the BIG move to Dallas that is going to take place in the next couple of weeks. We have been crazy packing around here (it took 2 days just to do the kitchen!!!), I am flying out tomorrow morning to Dallas to start work on Jan. 5 - Blake will follow a few weeks later with a trailer full of some of our stuff. We both know that God has an amazing plan for us and will work everything out for the best. We both have a little bit of anxiety about moving, mostly due to the stress of selling a house in the current real estate market, Blake finding a new job/maybe a new career in the Dallas area and changing from a 2 full time income household, to a full time and part time income household. We pray everyday that God will bless Blake with the BEST job for him - one that Blake will really enjoy doing every day and one that will provide for our family; we are also praying every day that God will allow the right family to see our house and want to buy it quickly. We think it is a fabulous house and we are VERY sad to leave it- but hope another family thinks it is fabulous too! Please keep us in your prayers over the next couple of months regarding these 2 situations. We really appreciate all of the support!

Now, with a new year also comes New Year Resolutions! I have ALWAYS tried to make some reasonable resolutions, and some follow through, and some don't. Last year, I wanted to lose some weight (typical...but I did lose 10 pounds in time for swimsuit season), and I also wanted to be really good at remembering everyone's birthdays and anniversaries AND get cards to them ON TIME (ON TIME is the key for me...I am good at remembering, and usually calling, but I am terrible about getting gifts and cards to people on time)... last year was no different... I broke my new years resolution just after I made it... I missed Kambry and Brian's anniversary on Jan 8!!! Bummer!

This year, I am once again going to make a few resolutions...and really try hard to keep them. The first is to not stress out about the small stuff. Some things do need a little more attention and stress than others- but I want to really work on realizing all of the positive things in life. Blake and I are very lucky to have the opportunity to move back home, to have my amazing parents who are letting us live at the lakehouse for free until we sell our house, to have great brothers and sisters that support and love us, to have Blake's great parents who are always willing to help, to have ALL FOUR sets of our grandparents still living, and to have some really incredible friends who are all so excited for us!!!! These are the things I want to dwell on during the more difficult times in life. All the other stuff isn't that important!

I also want to learn to control my tongue better with Blake. I love him so much, but every once and awhile I find myself not speaking very kindly to him. He does not deserve that and I want to be a better wife to him by speaking more kind words to him.

And my last resolution is going to be to run another marathon in 2009!! Some of you may know that back in 2003 my favorite Uncle Doug and I ran the OKC Marathon. It was a great race and I am so proud that I did it. I NEVER thought I would want to run another- after all, 26.2 miles in one day is enough right? In the last couple of months, I have decided that since I am going to be working part time this year, it gives me a great opportunity and plenty of time to get back in shape and attempt Marathon #2! As of right now, Kambry and I are talking about running the White Rock Marathon in Dallas next December. That gives me PLENTY of time to prepare and several races between now and then to train. We will see how it goes... I am really hoping that I follow through with this. It might be the last one I run before having kids- after that, life will get much more difficult to find 2-3 hours a day to run. Haha- I am sure my mom-friends are laughing right now, because I have no idea what life with a baby might be like.

This might be my most lengthy post- thanks for reading it! I will keep you all updated on the move, the new jobs, selling the house and of course the resolutions!

Happy Holidays from the Holmans!

2008-12-31T17:13:00.003-05:00

This was out Christmas card this year! Sorry if we missed you- next year I will order more!

Card from Tiny Prints... it turned out great- and they were REALLY easy to work with!

Merry Christmas- Waco Style

2008-12-31T16:57:00.007-05:00

Our next stop took us to Waco to visit Blake's parents, Bonnie, Burson and Blair and of course- our precious nephews, Cooper and Mason! The boys are growing up so much and Cooper was especially fun this Christmas, since he knew all about Santa and presents and the whole Christmas spirit. Again, we spent the weekend eating lots of good food, opening some really fun gifts and enjoying good ole family time! Blake and I were even able to visit my favorite store in Waco: Spice AND made a trip to George's!

The Whole Gang

Cooper playing with the soccer goal we got him for Christmas

Burson and Blair and the boys

Cooper and I being Santa's elves

Uncle Blake and Cooper being silly

"What dis?" - a common phrase this year

Uncle Blake and Mason

Merry Christmas Texas-Style

2008-12-30T15:40:00.005-05:00

We made the 12 hour drive to Texas on Dec. 23 to celebrate the holidays with both of our families. We started in DFW at the Parker's lakehouse for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. We all had a great time and it seems Santa was very good to all of us. We enjoyed LOTS and LOTS of yummy food, played the trivia game, Buzz (a new game for PS3), went to see Marley and Me (everyone left the theater crying), ate some more food, and opened lots of fun gifts!

This was the beautiful view in our neighborhood as we pulled out for the road trip- what a great sunset!

The guys enjoying the warm weather and cold drinks out by the lake

Dad got my cousins (Jackson and Colton) new rifles

Aunt Toni and Uncle Doug (with camo Frosty in the background)

Merry Christmas, Mom and Dad!

The Holmans

The Fitzhughs

Jen LOVES her mini Chi hairdryer

Amy opening some fun jewelry from Ann Taylor

The day after Christmas we headed to Waco for Christmas with the Holmans...

Blake and Heather's Christmas Celebration!

2008-12-30T15:22:00.004-05:00

This year Blake and I decided to forego Christmas gifts for each other and instead, we enjoyed a romantic weekend getaway at the Ritz Carlton at Reynolds Plantation. Reynolds Plantation is on Lake Oconee in East Georgia. This was our last romantic getaway in Georgia before we move back to Texas, so we really lived it up and enjoyed every minute of it.

We arrived early Saturday afternoon (Dec 20) and had a FABULOUS couples massage at the Ritz spa! It was so nice and relaxing, I actually fell asleep in the middle of it :) I never fall asleep during a massage, so you can imagine it must have been pretty stinkin' relaxing. Then we had a romantic dinner at the Georgian Bistro and walked around the hotel grounds. The entire resort was decorated for the holidays, including massive Christmas trees, a life-size REAL gingerbread house (that smelled SO yummy!) and s'mores at the outdoor firepit. Not only that, but EVERY single tree on the resort had Christmas lights on it!! This place has thousands of trees, so it was very impressive! My pictures don't do it justice, so check out their website as well.

Dinner in front of the fireplace

The life-size Gingerbread House

The front of the resort with all the lights.... a little blurry

This was the perfect Christmas present and we came back home refreshed and relaxed, just in time to make the 12 hour drive to Texas for the holidays!

Back to God's Country!!!

2008-12-09T18:22:00.003-05:00

YES!!! WE ARE MOVING BACK TO TEXAS!!! We are so absolutely excited to be coming home and getting back to what we like to refer to as God's Country!!! For those of you who don't know, I moved away from Texas in 2004, right after I graduated from Baylor. I started working for a pharmaceutical company 2 weeks after graduation and they moved me around the country for a little over a year in a "training program" - from Detroit, to Dallas, to Los Angeles. I finally ended up in Atlanta as a permanent location in August 2005. I have been with the same company ever since and have LOVED working for them. It has been very rewarding, fun and stressful all at the same time. Blake moved out to Atlanta in March 2005 to fulfill his dream of living in the Southeast. He has been working for the same insurance company for the past 3 1/2 years.

After missing home and family and friends a lot in the past six months, an opportunity became available for me to stay with the same company I have been working for and transfer to the Dallas market. It was too good of an opportunity to pass up! So after lots of praying, talking, negotiating, and decision-making, the whole thing was finalized and I signed the contract to move us back to Dallas! Blake has been so supportive through this whole process and so graciously stepping down from his job, to explore something new and different in Dallas.

We are so sad to leave some of the best friends we've ever had, here in Georgia! We have had some amazing adventures in the past 4 and half years. We've spent many evenings and dinners with the Camps, several trip to Athens to see the good ole UGA Bulldogs play some serious SEC football, wine tastings, new restaurants, a weekend in the mountains and so much more! They have been great great friends to us. We also are very very sad to leave some of our favorite Baylor alums here as well, the Holloways! We too have shared many days and nights enjoying this beautiful family. Everything from Ellie's birthday party, to concerts, lots and lots of shopping with Cara, homemade margaritas and cookouts! We will miss you dearly, but will come back often to visit and you are ALWAYS welcome in Big D anytime!

For now, we would really appreciate prayers for our upcoming adventure. We are putting our beautiful first home together on the market in January and are really praying that it will sell quickly. We are also praying that Blake will find the perfect job that will challenge him and reward him. We know God has everything in control and we are at completely peace with whatever might happen.

This will all take place very, very quickly... I start my new position on January 5th!!! Which means we will be moving over the Christmas holidays. We are also praying that we can get everything done in the next 2 weeks!! We are trying to do all our Christmas shopping, get the house ready to list, pack and tie up all the loose ends of our current jobs before Dec 23!! Not to mention, spend as much time as possible with our dear friends out here! Please keep us in mind the next couple of weeks and keep us in your prayers! We would greatly appreciate it and are VERY VERY excited to be coming home!!! Love you all!!

Busy Busy Busy!!!

2008-12-09T17:54:00.002-05:00

Well, it has been several weeks since I have posted anything, and to be honest, it is NOT due to a lack of things going on. We have actually been swamped with everything going on in life right now... another post all in itself.

The week of Thanksgiving was so much fun! We started Wednesday afternoon, making our way to Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson Airport...not nearly as crowded as we expected. Looks like the economy IS taking toll on the airline industry. We arrived in DFW later that evening, had a great dinner with Burson, Blair and our precious nephews! Then off to Henrietta to see Meme and Gramps! We spent the next couple of days eating, eating and more eating; lots of visiting, movies, and good quality family time. Then it was back to Dallas to see Cooper and Mason again and off the Parkers for Thanksgiving #2! This time it was filled with eating, eating, football, movies, football, and lots of catching up with all my sisters and Mom and Dad! Then, back to the airport and life in Atlanta started all over again. It was a whirlwind of a trip, but always lots of fun. Unfortunately, we were so relaxed and busy at the same time, I did not get ANY pictures!! Well, I will take double the amount at Christmas.

This past weekend, we made the quick drive out to Aiken, SC to visit Blake's aunt and uncle, cousin and their kiddos. It was great! We relaxed some more, ate some more and spent a lot of time playing with the girls. Miranda (Blake's cousin) has 2 precious daughters, Haley, 3 and Reese, 18 months... and is expecting another one in May. Haley and I spent most of the time coloring in her Minnie Mouse coloring book, playing hide-and-go-seek, and shopping in the "fake store." We also went to a horse farm to feed the horses and went to the Christmas performance at Aunt Vickie and Uncle Ron's church. It is so refreshing to be around family and we really feel so close to all of them. Thanks for having us, Vic and Ron! It was such a great weekend.

Now that December is here, I can hardly believe it! It definitely came quick this year! I am not prepared at all!!! For now, enjoy the pics of Haley and Reese and our weekend in Aiken!

Blake and I with the girls after church- they are in the most adorable Christmas dresses

Haley posing for the camera

Blake and Reese playing

Just what the doctor ordered...

2008-11-25T20:47:00.008-05:00

Blake and I are so very thankful and grateful that God has blessed us with such wonderful friends! This past weekend, our great friends, Matt and Paige, invited us to join them at their brand new cabin in the North Georgia Mountains! They just finished building this gorgeous home and it is the most relaxing place on earth.

We absolutely love hanging out with Matt and Paige and it was the perfect time to just get away and enjoy the cool weather, have some great wine and enjoy the quiet of the mountains. Enjoy the pics!

Thank you so much Camps, for allowing us to escape from the city and experience your perfect getaway!

Blake and Matt enjoying some cigars and guy talk by the outdoor fireplace

The beautiful cabin from the front with Reaux keeping watch

Wine and Cheese with Paige

The Camps!

The back deck...you can see the outdoor fireplace and above that is the rooftop deck with another fireplace!

The view from our balcony

Master Bath..isn't it gorgeous?? And the floors are heated too!

Sunrise from our balcony

And of course, we had to cheer on the OU SOONERS!!!

Playing with Reaux!!! She is so precious... after we left she ran after us down the driveway... looks like we may be thinking about getting a dog soon :)

My Man Blake!

2008-11-19T20:34:00.007-05:00

1. Who is your man? Michael Blake Holman or as I refer to him... "Babe" or "Baby" or "B"

2. How long have you been together? 4 years...dating, engaged, married...but we've known each other for 8 years!

3. How long did you date? off and on for 5 years...only serious for 1 before we got engaged

4. How old is your man? 26....almost gonna be 27

5. Who eats more? by far Blake eats the most...usually all of his food and half of mine, although I can challenge him pretty good when it comes to chips and salsa/queso

6. Who said "I love you" first? Blake did...at my parents house in the fall of 2004

7. Who is taller? Blake

8. Who sings better? I'm going to have to say that we are both pretty awful!

9. Who is smarter? Blake is definitely smarter when it comes to finances and book smarts....I like to think I am pretty savvy when it comes to business smarts.

10. Whose temper is worse? That would definitely be me...Blake very rarely gets mad, and has NEVER raised his voice

11. Who does the laundry? 90% me - 10% Blake

12. Who takes out the garbage? Definitely Blake

13. Who sleeps on the right side of the bed? Well looking at the bed, Blake does...it's closer to the door

14. Who pays the bills? My man is in charge of that

15. Who is better with the computer? me

16. Who mows the lawn? That would be Blake, but I like to plant the flowers :)

17. Who cooks dinner? Definitely me....Blake's idea of cooking is frozen pizza (but he does like to grill)

18. Who drives when you are together? He does...I drive all day long for work, so I like to take a break

19. Who pays when you go out? The man of course

20. Who is most stubborn? I'm going to have to say Blake is pretty stubborn, more than me.

21. Who is the first to admit when they are wrong? We are both pretty good about saying sorry and admitting when we are wrong

22. Whose parents do you see the most? probably mine...they come to Atlanta and visit pretty often...but when we are in Texas it is pretty equal

23. Who kissed who first? He kissed me when we were 18...best kiss of my life...AND he grabbed my face, which I LOVE!!!

24. Who asked who out? hmmm....I probably made the first move, all flirty and "wanna hang out sometime?" when we were freshman...but when we had our "2nd First Date" when we were 22, it was definitely all Blake's doing.

25. Who proposed? He did - I was totally shocked!

26. Who is more sensitive? Me, but I'm going to have to say that my man can be pretty sensitive too and I love that about him.

27. Who has more friends? We have a bunch of friends and most of them are mutual friends

28. Who has more siblings? Me, I have 3 sisters and a brother-in-law, Blake has one sister, one brother and a sister-in-law

29. Who wears the pants in the family? You can ask Blake this question at any time and he will always tell you the same answer...... ME!

Happy Birthday Joanna!!!

2008-11-12T20:32:00.004-05:00

Happy Birthday to one of my greatest friends, Joanna McCord!!! Congrats on your new precious family and I hope this is the best birthday ever!

Happy Birthday to my Favorite Brother-in-Law!!

2008-11-08T13:50:00.003-05:00

Happy Birthday Ryan Fitzhugh!! I hope you are having a fantastic birthday so far!!! Ryan has been a party of our family for many many years! In fact, I can't really even remember what our family was like without Ryan! He is one of the most genuine people you will ever meet and treats my sister like gold! I love watching football with Ryan and his passion for his beloved Dallas Cowboys! Love you, bro!! Hope you have the best birthday ever!!!

Happy Birthday to a Great Mom-in-Law!!

2008-11-08T13:43:00.004-05:00

Well, once again I am little late on this post....but, Happy Belated Birthday to my sweet mother-in-law, Sherrie Holman!!

Sherrie is such a kind, sweet mom and raised the most wonderful son....my sweet hubby! It is so fun to watch "Grammy" with her little grandsons and they absolutely adore her. I hope you had a very wonderful and special birthday and I am so glad we were able to spend some quality time with you over the past weekend! Happy Happy Birthday!!!

Pierce Jacob McCord!!!

2008-11-08T13:33:00.003-05:00

Welcome to the world, Pierce Jacob McCord!!! Late in the evening on October 30, 2008, this sweet little man decided it was time to make an appearance! We are so excited you are here and can't wait to spoil you all the time! You have some pretty amazing parents and you are already just as beautiful as your mommy!

I think Pierce knew how much his Auntie Heather wanted to meet him when he was born, and it was perfect timing, since we came in town on Oct. 31 for Homecoming!! He is absolutely perfect and we can't wait to see him again at Thanksgiving! Welcome little man!!!

Baylor Homecoming 2008!

2008-11-08T12:58:00.011-05:00

Last weekend Blake and I ventured back to good ole Waco, Texas to celebrate one of the best weekends of the year....BAYLOR HOMECOMING!!! We absolutely love Homecoming- the bonfire, the parade, the game, George's, and most of all getting to see all of our friends and family! This year was really special because my 2 little sisters are in school at Baylor (Jen's a senior and Amy's a junior) and Blake's little sister (Bonnie) is a freshman. There are many generations of Baylor grads in both of our families, so it is really neat to be back and see everyone.

This year we got into Waco pretty early on Friday, and immediately went to George's for lunch. Jen and her roommate, Meg came up there along with some of Blake's buddies. Then went to the bonfire to catch up with The Holmans. It was quite the scene, a great band, carnival rides, etc. The next morning, bright and early, we headed to campus to watch the parade. This is one of my favorite parts of Baylor Homecoming. You run into any and everyone you could imagine and of course, watching all the babies is very entertaining. This year was especially fun because both of our nephews were there as well.

The game once again was SO CLOSE!!! Baylor almost walked away with a victory against one of the better teams in the Big 12...Mizzou! It didn't quite happen this year, but I am very confident that next year will be our year!

Enjoy the pics...Meme, sorry it took me awhile to get this up...I was stuck at a business trip in Scottsdale for the past 6 days.

The entire Holman gang at the parade...

Me, Melissa, Amy, Blake, and Bonnie

In our green and gold

With my girls, Michelle, Noelle and Regan

Brothers-in-law...Blake and Ryan

With our nephews, Cooper and Mason

Aunt Heather and sweet Mason giving a BIG smile!

Uncle Blake and Cooper enjoying the parade

Tri Delts with the Tri Delt float in the background

with Bonnie at the bonfire

Bonfire...

George's with Jen

Amicalola Falls

2008-10-26T21:21:00.005-04:00

Another reason why I love Georgia in the fall....hiking in North Georgia! It is absolutely gorgeous- especially this time of year! Today, Blake and I hiked up Amicalola Falls. All of the trees were changing color and it was the most beautiful day in October so far...about 65 degrees at the base, beautiful sunshine and a little breeze.

It absolutely amazing to look at all that God has created and know that He created us as well. He is an amazing God with a beautiful paintbrush.

Go Georgia Bulldawgs!!!

2008-10-20T20:43:00.004-04:00

We just got back from a fabulous weekend in Athens! Our good friends, Matt and Paige, are UGA alumni and have season tickets to the games. They are so sweet to invite us every year. Athens is an amazing college town and they sure know how to have a good time! It was so fun to experience SEC football live and in person.

Paige and I at the game

The ladies before a pretty amazing night on the town

Thanks for a wonderful weekend, Matt and Paige!

Why I love Georgia in the Fall

2008-10-20T20:01:00.004-04:00

I absolutely LOVE watching the maple in our front yard change colors.... It is absolutely gorgeous! Pretty soon it will be completely red.

Happy Happy Birthday Mom!!!

2008-10-20T17:06:00.004-04:00

We were out of town this weekend, so I am a couple of days late with this post, but Saturday was my BEAUTIFUL mom's birthday!!

My mom is my best friend in the entire world! She is absolutely amazing! I am so fortunate to have her. She is the most encouraging, godly, thoughtful and selfless woman I know. She is completely devoted to her family and is always there for me no matter what is going on in her life! She also raised 4 daughters!....that takes a really special lady! Not only is she beautiful and kind but my mom is incredibly talented. She has just opened up her very own spa and salon named Bella Strada! It is unbelievable! (it deserves its own post...coming soon)

I love her to death and miss her so much!! But at least I get to talk to her every day.

At the Masters this year

With her hubby/my dad (aren't they a cute couple)

All the Parker ladies

One of my favorite pics of my mom (winning The Annual Holiday Parker Poker Game)

Christmas at the lake

Date Night at Chastain!

2008-10-12T19:01:00.005-04:00

On Friday night, the hubby surprised me with a super fun date night! He got us tickets to see The Allman Brothers at Chastain Park. Chastain is one of our favorite places to see concerts. It is a beautiful outdoor venue in the middle of a neighborhood in Buckhead. It is surrounded by trees and makes you feel like you are just in someone's backyard. At most shows, you can bring in your own cooler, picnic basket, etc and enjoy the "picnic" atmosphere. Some people even reserve tables and bring candles, center pieces, table clothes and get their dinner catered. It is quite a site to see... very southern! Unfortunately, this show was one of the few were no outside food/drink is allowed. We still had a fabulous time and enjoyed the GORGEOUS fall weather. Thanks for a wonderful date night, sweetie!

Tailgating before the show, in the middle of all the trees...

The Allman Brothers and special guest, Derrick Trucks

Congratulations Drew and Rachel!

2008-10-04T11:11:00.004-04:00

Congratulations Drew and Rachel!!! Today is their BIG DAY!! We are so sad we aren't there for the wedding, but I know it is going to be absolutely gorgeous!! I can't wait to see pictures! Drew and I have been friends since we were born. Our moms have been best friends since 3rd grade!!! I know God will bless both of you in your marriage and I know you will be so happy together.

My mom and her best friend, Charletta (the Mother of the Groom)

The Holloways!!

2008-10-04T10:56:00.004-04:00

Last night we had so much fun hanging out with The Holloways!! They are our best friends out here in Atlanta and we love getting to spend time with them. We had a great idea to carve pumpkins last night, but we had so much fun catching up and talking, that we never got around to it. Oh well, we will reschedule! Matt and Cara's sweet little girl, Ellie, was already alseep when we got there, so we didn't get to play with her. :( But it is so nice to have a little bit of Texas and Baylor out in ATL with us. They remind us so much of home and are some of the most fun people you could ever be around! Thanks for a fun night!

Me and Cara... some people think we look like sisters, I can kinda see it in this pic

And a pic with Ellie, at her birthday party

Maroon 5 & Counting Crows!!

2008-10-04T10:45:00.003-04:00

Last Wednesday, my amazing husband surprised me with tickets to the Maroon 5 and Counting Crows concert!! For those of you that know Blake pretty well, you know that he has a deep love for live music. We have been to many great shows together, just to name a few... Eric Clapton, Eagles, Justin Timberlake, BB King, Willie Nelson, many Widespread Panic shows, and now we can add Maroon 5 and Counting Crows. He is so sweet to me! Thanks baby!! It was a pretty amazing concert!

Tailgating before the show

Counting Crows lead singer

more Counting Crows

Apparently, Maroon 5 was so entertaining, that I didn't get any pictures of them. Oh well.

Happy 30th Birthday, Blair!!

2008-09-29T10:00:00.002-04:00

Today is my sweet sister-in-law, Blair's 30th birthday!!! She is such a fun and cute mom of 2 precious little boys!! I've had so much fun with you over the last 4 years! We've had many good times hanging out and enjoying some much needed Starbucks on a regular basis.

I hope you have a fantastic birthday!!! I am sure your hubby has something really special planned for you and I know Cooper and Mason will help you celebrate!! Enjoy your big day!! LOVE YOU!!!

Here is Blair with her beautiful family in Destin...

And as one of my bridesmaids...

Powder Bathroom Remodel

2008-09-22T20:32:00.005-04:00

We recently finished remodeling our powder bathroom. As you can see with the BEFORE pictures, originally there was very LOUD red and gold wallpaper and brass fixtures. It just did not fit my Tuscan style house, so ...

BEFORE

We hired an artist to come and refinish the walls in a Lusterstone finish in chocolate brown. We changed the fixtures and switched the pedestal sink for a granite-topped vanity.

AFTER:

One of my favorite parts, is the ceiling. She did a lighter brown to match the tile floors.

I absolutely LOVE it and it fits our house MUCH better! Next project, master bath??

Can't wait to meet Pierce!!!

2008-09-22T20:10:00.006-04:00

Over the weekend I was able to go back to Dallas to visit old friends, and celebrating the upcoming arrival of Joanna's son, Pierce! We had such a wonderful time at Breadwinners and Jo & Pierce got some really great stuff! Here is the precious mom-to-be... doesn't she look great??

Pierce will be the most stylish kid at Baylor!

It was so fun to see all of my best friends! I miss them all tremendously, but cherish the the fun times we get to spend together. Here's Kambry, Regan, Joanna, Noelle, me, Michelle and Nikki. We can't wait to meet Pierce Jacob McCord in November!

Happy Birthday Big Kahuna!!

2008-09-16T16:46:00.001-04:00

Happy Happy Birthday to the BEST Dad in the entire world!! I love you Dad!

I think anyone would agree that any man that can help raise 4 daughters has to be a pretty special dad. He didn't get to go to football practice, baseball games or hunting with his kids; instead he was at cheerleading competitions, coaching 6 year old girls soccer and buying matching dresses for all of us. But if you ask him on any given day, he would tell you that he wouldn't trade it for the world. He loves all his daughters deeply and cannot imagine raising boys. I think that is pretty special.

My favorite quote from my dad is: "Be careful what you pray for. When I was a little boy, I would pray that God would surround me with beautiful women... this is NOT what I had in mind... but I wouldn't trade it for anything!"

I have watched my parents relationship over the past several years and have noticed that my dad thinks my mom is one hot babe... and you can tell! He treats my mom like a queen and that is so neat to watch.

He is an amazing man that has provided for his family for so many years. He has led us to be strong women and always encouraged our faith. I sure wish I could be there with him on this very special day, but we will celebrate this weekend! Love you Dad!! Happy Birthday!

Now you be the judge.... doesn't he look like one fun dad??

Moments from walking me down the aisle...

being "tough" with his sons-in-law on the lake

a classic pic of Tommy Don Parker

Dancing with his bride

playing Wii with his nephews

his goofy joke for christmas decor at the lakehouse

Masters 2008 with 2 of his ladies

Christmas with his honey

Go Cowboys!!!

2008-09-15T18:56:00.006-04:00

Lets go 'boys!!! I am super excited about the game tonight... I sure hope the 'boys show up in full force! But I'm not so sure I want Jessica to show up tonight- at least lay low if you do come, Jess. As for me, I'll be decked out in boots and my own Cowboys jersey catching the game with the hubby at our favorite sports bar... Taco Mac!

The 2 best years of my life...

2008-09-08T19:28:00.007-04:00

Dinner at Cabernet - celebrating our 2nd Anniversary

Tomorrow is Blake and I's 2 year anniversary! ( I am currently at a business meeting, so we celebrated over the weekend and I am posting this a day early) I cannot believe how fast the time has gone and how much fun we have had the past 2 years!! I can honestly say that Blake is the best husband a girl could ask for. He is the most generous, thoughtful, funny, adventurous and loving man I know. I could not have dreamed of a better hubby. Thank you, Blake for making all my dreams come true on 9.9.06, and for continuing to surprise me everyday. I LOVE YOU more than you will ever know!!!

Here is a glimpse at some of our adventures the past 2 years...in no particular order

Meeting Charles Barkley on our 1 year anniversary

Opening Day at the Braves game

At the Masters with my wonderful parents

Right before running a half marathon in Nashville

We bought our first house...

Pool time at Ponte Vedra, FL

Jamaica

Napa Valley for our 1st Anniversary

San Fran

Tennis, anyone?

2008-09-03T17:51:00.003-04:00

A couple of years ago for Christmas, Blake and I asked for tennis rackets and every spring, summer and fall since then we try to get in as many matches as possible. Now, let me just clarify...neither one of us are the next Rafeal Nadal, but we have definitely progressed throughout the years. We always have a lot of fun, and the season score is usually about even.

Before we played last night, my sweet hubby had a surprise for me...a new tennis outfit. Although I do believe it helped my skills, he still had a come from behind victory and beat me. Loser buys dinner...I forgot my wallet, therefore, winner bought dinner! Thanks for my fun new tennis outfit, baby!

Aloha!!!

2008-09-02T16:49:00.009-04:00

Well, we are back on the mainland after what was one of the most amazing vacations I have ever had!! Blake and I both agreed that it came in a close 2nd, only to our honeymoon! We had the most amazing time in Maui!! I think if I would have let him, Blake would have stayed forever! We stayed at the most gorgeous resort, The Ritz Carlton Kapalua. They just finished a $160 million renovation and it was spectacular! We had lot of fun activities planned throughout the trip and spent a lot of quality time at the pool and beach. Here are a bunch of pictures with the details of what we did while we were there...

This was the view from our room early in the morning...our first night/morning we didn't sleep much- woke up at 4 am Hawaii time (which is 10 am in Atlanta)

A picture of the pools from our room in the daylight

View from our lanai during the day

At the beach...

Spa Day!! We had a couples massage in a private cabana

The Old Lahaina Luau

On our way to the pool... beautiful hotel grounds

Dinner at Mama's Fishhouse... fantastic food - I had the Mahi Mahi stuffed with crab and lobster! Whoa!

Watching the sun rise from 10,000 feet. This was about 6 am on top of volcano (Mt. Haleakala)

It was FREEZING cold!!! 40 degrees outside with 30 mph winds! But definitely worth it. We are about to hop on some bikes and ride 30 miles down the volcano! Best part of the trip!

Dinner at Kimo's.... another favorite!

Blake played golf on the Kapalua Bay Course... I rode in the golf cart and took pictures

Last day on the beach...

Dinner at the Plantation House

(celebrating our 2 year anniversary a little early)

A pic of me with the trophy for PGA tournament played at Kapalua

Goodbye Maui... Blake promised to bring me back soon!

Next Stop: HAWAII!!!!

2008-08-20T19:49:00.003-04:00

On Saturday morning, Blake and I leave for 8 glorious days in Maui, Hawaii!!! We have been looking forward to this trip for many months and are SOOOO excited that it is finally here. It will be a really busy next couple of days getting ready, wrapping up some work events and packing!!!! Be looking for pics as soon as we get back...

More summer pics

2008-08-20T19:23:00.005-04:00

Our great friends, Tara and Peter Cavazos came out to Atlanta to visit us.... we loved getting to spend some quality time with them. We miss them lots and are so lucky to have such great friends!

Tara and I before sushi and Blind Willie's

In Virginia Highlands, about to go to our favorite jazz club, Blind Willie's

At the BB King/Willie Nelson Concert

we felt right at home with the HUGE Texas flag Willie had hanging

We spent 4th of July in Destin with the entire Holman crew (aunts, uncles, cousins, grandparents, nephews, sisters, brothers, etc)

Blake and I on the 4th

Holmans on the beach

with our precious nephew, Cooper

The entire group...

It was such a fun long weekend filled with lots of beach time, pool time, good food, great fellowship and lots of relaxation...can't wait for the next trip.