The only thing reminding me that it is summer is the intense heat....
I am currently enrolled in 
Miss Katie also convinced me to join the local athletic club...so after long days of classes, babysitting and getting sunburnt, i head over to 5 Points and burn off a few pounds. This Maid of Honor knows part of her job is to get me fit for the wedding. Have i said how thankful I am for such wonderful friend? LOVE HER
Wedding planning is also in full swing. This Sunday is our first shower (couple's shower) with some of Micah's parents friends :o) There will be another shower in a few weeks and THEN my Bridesmaid shower :o) on the 29th. Not that I'm not looking forward to the others, but the 29th is special because my out of town bridesmaids are coming home (from WI and GA) soo i cannot wait to see them!!
Micah moves on the 16th and heads to
It's hot and all i can think about is living in
P.S. My Dress came in yesterday!!!!!!!!!!
Friday, June 6, 2008
Summer Time
Sunday, June 1, 2008
You're gonna miss this....you're gonna want this back
As of May 25th I am finished with my undergrad! I finally have a nice certificate that says I have a BA in Chemistry and Biology...HORRAY The day was not terribly exciting but know how much i had been through the get there made me appreciate it a bit more. Here are a few pic of the people i will actually miss.....
First and foremost, my Bridesmaids....Laura, Liz, and Courtney have helped me through the past four years of my life. Good or Bad they were always there for me. Leaving Kenosha was not hard for me, but leaving my best friends was not a simple task. I cannot wait for you ladies to stand up with me in my wedding. I love you!
Miss Ashley....i would never have been able to accomplish my dream of starting a Relay For Life at Carthage without her help and encouragement...This woman is amazing and little kids of the future will be incredibly lucky to have her as a teacher. Love you Ash
Although i double majored, Chemistry was my true love. The amazing men and women stuck out the 4 year journey with me. From homework partners, to help on projects, to personal advice and education. Although there were more, the above are some of the best! Brent, Dr. Rener, Matthew, and Dr. Blaine (AKA MOM)
Miguel, my Amigo from Mexico....Everyday i could expect a hug from the happy Mexican in the hall. With funny stories and insane ideas, life could never be boring. We are sooo glad you cheated on your USA entrance exam so they let you in to attend college. I cannot image it without you.
Mom, this amazing woman has taught me much further than the classroom allowed. I cannot even begin to thank her for the countless hours spent in her office, crying, asking for advice, or just chatting. She has been there for me no matter what she had going on in her own schedule...she also allowed me to babysit her beautiful little boys when I was so homesick for my kids in England. Thanks for being my Carthage Mom and listening to me whenever i needed you. Your hugs in the hall always came at the right time!
My Chi Omega's....I honestly don't think i would be half the woman I am today had i not met all of you. Spring '05 changed my life and i am grateful for each and every one of you. I cannot wait to dance with you all at our next 'function'...my wedding. You are amazing women.
My Laura Lu and Bill....we have been together since the first day of school and i know that i will never forget all the memories. Bill used to ride through the dorm halls trying to get girls to be on his new video "Carthage Girls Gone Wild" and would offer free pencils to anyone who complied. haha i don't think he ever got anyone ....but it was entertaining. Thanks for the rides to class when it was raining Bill!! Laura, the best roommate and friend anyone could ever ask for...my bathtub awaits you in California...i will have your wine and text books ready :o)
First and foremost, my Bridesmaids....Laura, Liz, and Courtney have helped me through the past four years of my life. Good or Bad they were always there for me. Leaving Kenosha was not hard for me, but leaving my best friends was not a simple task. I cannot wait for you ladies to stand up with me in my wedding. I love you!
Miss Ashley....i would never have been able to accomplish my dream of starting a Relay For Life at Carthage without her help and encouragement...This woman is amazing and little kids of the future will be incredibly lucky to have her as a teacher. Love you Ash
Although i double majored, Chemistry was my true love. The amazing men and women stuck out the 4 year journey with me. From homework partners, to help on projects, to personal advice and education. Although there were more, the above are some of the best! Brent, Dr. Rener, Matthew, and Dr. Blaine (AKA MOM)
Miguel, my Amigo from Mexico....Everyday i could expect a hug from the happy Mexican in the hall. With funny stories and insane ideas, life could never be boring. We are sooo glad you cheated on your USA entrance exam so they let you in to attend college. I cannot image it without you.
Mom, this amazing woman has taught me much further than the classroom allowed. I cannot even begin to thank her for the countless hours spent in her office, crying, asking for advice, or just chatting. She has been there for me no matter what she had going on in her own schedule...she also allowed me to babysit her beautiful little boys when I was so homesick for my kids in England. Thanks for being my Carthage Mom and listening to me whenever i needed you. Your hugs in the hall always came at the right time!
My Chi Omega's....I honestly don't think i would be half the woman I am today had i not met all of you. Spring '05 changed my life and i am grateful for each and every one of you. I cannot wait to dance with you all at our next 'function'...my wedding. You are amazing women.
My Laura Lu and Bill....we have been together since the first day of school and i know that i will never forget all the memories. Bill used to ride through the dorm halls trying to get girls to be on his new video "Carthage Girls Gone Wild" and would offer free pencils to anyone who complied. haha i don't think he ever got anyone ....but it was entertaining. Thanks for the rides to class when it was raining Bill!! Laura, the best roommate and friend anyone could ever ask for...my bathtub awaits you in California...i will have your wine and text books ready :o)
Monday, May 5, 2008
It's Official...
It's going to be quite difficult to get me to leave this place....View from the Coronado BridgeThe Promenade Rio Vista is our new home as of May 2nd. Perfect....
*Two Bedroom
*Two Bathroom
*1084 sq. ft.
*extended patio for our grilling and entertaining pleasure
*Movie Theater
*2 pools
*gated underground parking
*2 workout facilities
*2 club houses
*business center (computers)
*conference room (if we feel important enough to use it)
*retail shops
*restaurants
*Sauna
*dentist
*Chiropractor
*Wine tasting restaurant
*Spa
*Curves
*Trolly Station
and much much more
The Second bedroom is happy to house anyone who wants to come visit us for perfect weather!!! We are close to just about everything. Beaches in all directions, fabulous food, SeaWorld, LegoLand, DisneyLand, Down Town, and palm trees for all! L.A., Mexico, and Las Vegas are just a short drive away so that increases the options.
My favorite part....the soaking tub :o)Monday, April 28, 2008
it was the best of times...it was the worst of times
In the next few months, life is going to completely change....
22 years....I have experienced many changes, some positive changes and then, of course, those not so desirable negative changes. There are a lot of things I vividly remember: the death of my grandma and grandpa, losing Andy, graduating from junior high, making the cheerleading squad and dance team, Willow Hill youth group, missions trips, moving from house to house in hopes of finding my 'home', graduating from high school, moving to Wisconsin... Then there are also quite a few things that have happen that I either completely forgot, or only recall minute details based on what others tell me: kindergarten through 7th grade, mom and dad's divorce, Bryce being born, The Sunshine Club (although I can still sing the song and name at least 20 kids who were in it with us), family vacations prior to 1998, all of the small disputes that occurred between friends and brothers...
22 years...that's a long time to a 4 year old. In fact, that is a long time to just about anyone. I find it hard to believe I have been alive for 22+ years; and I have experienced them all :o) Quite incredible if you ask me. But for some reason I feel like the 22 years I have lived cannot even compare to the year I am currently living. The next 4 months will surely bring about some of the biggest changes I will ever experience (until children of course).
Graduation... Let's just say it will be bittersweet. The past four years have introduced me to some lifetime friends, rekindled old forgotten friendships, and closed the door to many others. There have been some definite highs and lows each of which have taught me more about myself. I started a brand new organization on campus, joined the most incredibly sorority around, and somehow learned to balance school, friends, and a gazillion extracurricular obligations. From President and Vice President of some to coordinators and members of others, I feel quite satisfied with all of which I have been a part. Who knew it would go so quickly. Although I am ready for a new part of my life I will surely miss my sisters, my friends, professors, and the friendly atmosphere I have learned to call home. I won't miss the homework, studying, or walking to class in snow and rain though, I can promise you that! It is going to be the happiest and saddest day of my college career.
Marriage... I love him to death but it's definitely going to be a HUGE change. I don't even know how to begin thinking about it...It is in God's hands...how exciting!
Moving to California... I have never even visited California let alone considered living there. But God has decided that Micah and I are headed there to start a new life with new places and faces. I must admit I rather excited about the move, but thinking about finding somewhere to live, a job, friends...it's not quite how I pictured my first year out of college. In just two days we go to find our 'home' for the next year. I am rather nervous...
BIG Changes....with graduation, marriage, and moving I am sure to encounter many highs and lows, but I am prepared to take them as they come. I think life is the biggest adventure of all and I cannot wait to see where it takes me...and my husband to be :o) I kept this blogger up to date while I was in England, but now it is going to be the Happy Couple Blog....
'til next time....
22 years....I have experienced many changes, some positive changes and then, of course, those not so desirable negative changes. There are a lot of things I vividly remember: the death of my grandma and grandpa, losing Andy, graduating from junior high, making the cheerleading squad and dance team, Willow Hill youth group, missions trips, moving from house to house in hopes of finding my 'home', graduating from high school, moving to Wisconsin... Then there are also quite a few things that have happen that I either completely forgot, or only recall minute details based on what others tell me: kindergarten through 7th grade, mom and dad's divorce, Bryce being born, The Sunshine Club (although I can still sing the song and name at least 20 kids who were in it with us), family vacations prior to 1998, all of the small disputes that occurred between friends and brothers...
22 years...that's a long time to a 4 year old. In fact, that is a long time to just about anyone. I find it hard to believe I have been alive for 22+ years; and I have experienced them all :o) Quite incredible if you ask me. But for some reason I feel like the 22 years I have lived cannot even compare to the year I am currently living. The next 4 months will surely bring about some of the biggest changes I will ever experience (until children of course).
Graduation... Let's just say it will be bittersweet. The past four years have introduced me to some lifetime friends, rekindled old forgotten friendships, and closed the door to many others. There have been some definite highs and lows each of which have taught me more about myself. I started a brand new organization on campus, joined the most incredibly sorority around, and somehow learned to balance school, friends, and a gazillion extracurricular obligations. From President and Vice President of some to coordinators and members of others, I feel quite satisfied with all of which I have been a part. Who knew it would go so quickly. Although I am ready for a new part of my life I will surely miss my sisters, my friends, professors, and the friendly atmosphere I have learned to call home. I won't miss the homework, studying, or walking to class in snow and rain though, I can promise you that! It is going to be the happiest and saddest day of my college career.
Marriage... I love him to death but it's definitely going to be a HUGE change. I don't even know how to begin thinking about it...It is in God's hands...how exciting!
Moving to California... I have never even visited California let alone considered living there. But God has decided that Micah and I are headed there to start a new life with new places and faces. I must admit I rather excited about the move, but thinking about finding somewhere to live, a job, friends...it's not quite how I pictured my first year out of college. In just two days we go to find our 'home' for the next year. I am rather nervous...
BIG Changes....with graduation, marriage, and moving I am sure to encounter many highs and lows, but I am prepared to take them as they come. I think life is the biggest adventure of all and I cannot wait to see where it takes me...and my husband to be :o) I kept this blogger up to date while I was in England, but now it is going to be the Happy Couple Blog....
'til next time....
Monday, July 30, 2007
Paris......I love you
Paris was quite an interesting adventure for the Duffy Family. After waking up at the crack of dawn and being on the road at half 5, we really didn't have much time to second guess what we had packed the night before. Mini van was quite snug with the two littles in the back Cathy and I in the middle and Kevin and Pappy up front...allowing just enough room for our suitcases, snacks, and travel bags. But with a lack of air circulation, the snug fit and bumpy rides lead to a sick little Sophie. Thus it was not a good start to a long drive in a smelly car, but we survived.
Because France is just across the English Channel, we decided driving was our best bet, and we took the eurotunnel across the channel. Basically we drove our cars onto a SMALL train, remained in our vehicle for 3o minutes while it drove us under water to the other side. The idea is quite impressive, but i attempted to sleep the whole while and not think about the possibility of the tunnel caving in with water. But once again, we survived.
Once on the other side we finished our drive to Paris where we found the change of driving to be a challenge. Kevin was able to keep us on to Correct side of the road (the right side) while navigating. We found our hotel as I continued to stay caught up in the sights. Unloaded and headed out on our adventure.
In order to get around Paris we took the Metropolitan and learned that the doors close after the train has been stopped for about 3o seconds, and if you want to get off you actually have to turn a handle to get the door to open otherwise you are trapped until the next stop. I think we gave the regulars a laugh because we were definitely obvious with out tourist stunts. The girls loved the ride and Sophie has found a new profession as a pole dancer and she refused to sit and swung around as long as she could keep her balance.
Once off of the Metro, we headed to see some sights. First main attraction was the famous roundabout that Chevy Chase gets stuck on in the movie, National Lampoon's European Vacation. One more check on my list of things to do before i die...Next we walked through beautiful gardens to get to the Louvre. This is the museum (as i call it) that is known for housing an enormous amount of artwork including the Mona Lisa. I was quite impressed with all of the art, and least impressed with the Mona Lisa, but once again it is another check on the list. The girls got bored and tired of walking after about...2 minutes...so they found entertainment in complaining and playing everywhere they could. the guards were not impressed, but we found great photo opportunities when they would stand over air vents to watch their dresses and hair fly up. Sophie also enjoyed napping on the floor and playing in the fireplaces that were there as artwork but her entertainment as well.
We then headed to get ice cream (amazing) and play at the Paris Carnival...this was a big hit with the kids and a nice break from their complaining. Although short-lived, my energy outlasted everyones as i carried Sophie for about 3 miles of walking as we headed to the Eiffel Tower. On the way she decided to add a little to her baby book by making it possible for her to say that she peed in a bush on the streets of Paris. That is something to be proud of. But once we got to the Tower everyone was dead and I searched for my long lost Chi Omega Love Laura Tepich who happened to be in Paris at the same time as I was. I hopelessly searched and searched among the thousands of people below the Tower and after about 30 minutes of walking and looking i was about to give up. But Brittney and I took one more walk around the tower when we were about to head back to the Family resting on the benches and there, as the crowds parted, was my XO Sister. And I screamed and ran to her in disbelief, hugged her, introduced her to the family, took 'Dad's' money and headed off with Laura and her friends to adventure on our own as the Duffy's headed back to the hotel. And as dramatic and movie like as that all sounds, it is quite true and i am still trying to believe it myself.
We spent 3 hours in line and on the Eiffel Tower together. After waiting for a Lift forever and having it breakdown only to send us to another line, we decided to walk up the stairs. This means 57 flights of stairs were climbed, about 700 up and then 700 down again) just to get to the second level of the tower. Exhausted and sore, we then took a lift to the summit where we had a breathtaking view. the Tower was lit up the whole time we were on it due to the nightfall and we took as many pictures as possibly and then rushed down the stairs so that we could watch the tower sparkle at midnight. I must say that this would have been incredible at anytime, but the fact that i was with one of my beloved sorority sisters at midnight in Paris at the Eiffel Tower is just something that one cannot forget. I believe my life is complete :o)
After this adventure, we wandered around, caught up on life, and then headed back to her hotel with her friends. She then called me a taxi so that i could find my way back home at 1 AM. Waking up my lovely Cathy, i managed to get a bit of sleep before headed out again on more adventures.
Our second day in Paris was quick but fulfilling. we went to Notre Dame which, although i don't believe in Catholicism, was remarkable. We then shopped, ate, wandered and took in more of Paris at the Playgrounds and such, and then loaded up the van only to get on the road once again. We drove for a few hours until the second half of our Holiday was about to begin.
The girls all set for our adventure.
my cup of coffee in France....little do the French know, it takes more than this to keep me going with the little ones all day long. but i made due
The Novotel Paris....our hotel
The Metropolitan
This is what i think of when someone says Europe
Just a big building to me, but if i knew French i might be able to tell you what it is.
National Lampoon's European Vacation roundabout
The Assemblee Nationale
Breathtaking
Precious....Kevin and Brittney walking hand in hand...i love my camera
Outside the Louvre
again
a cool statue inside
Proof that i saw the Mona Lisa
Me trying to make it more interesting for the girls while i took pictures of the mocking the paintings....haha once again, the guards were not impressed
Sophie in the fireplace
Sophie's hair blowing in the air
When Children (and Cathy) have had too much....
Brittney was given permission to sick her feet into the fountain, she however decided this meant to stand in it but fell and created a show for the hundreds of people surrounding it. I laughed and then disowned her.
After i claimed her again, we took a little ride on the Ferris Wheel so we could overlook all of Paris
The Eiffel Tower (and if you didn't know that then you should probably go back to school)
My family for the summer, and the rest of my life
beauty
my best friend, second mom, and sister all in one. And the girls trying to stay out of the picture after i yelled at them for always cutting in and not letting Cathy and I get a good shot. Stinkers
My Laura and I on the top of the Eiffel Tower
second level....it is beautiful
i want to go back
Brittney and I having a cuddle on a street in Paris. I love my mini me
a cool fountain that had the most disgusting water in it that i have ever seen.
a model of Notre Dame
The doors of Notre Dame.....creepy
looking across
the main service area.....church was going on and i was taking pictures like a bad girl
wow
Because France is just across the English Channel, we decided driving was our best bet, and we took the eurotunnel across the channel. Basically we drove our cars onto a SMALL train, remained in our vehicle for 3o minutes while it drove us under water to the other side. The idea is quite impressive, but i attempted to sleep the whole while and not think about the possibility of the tunnel caving in with water. But once again, we survived.
Once on the other side we finished our drive to Paris where we found the change of driving to be a challenge. Kevin was able to keep us on to Correct side of the road (the right side) while navigating. We found our hotel as I continued to stay caught up in the sights. Unloaded and headed out on our adventure.
In order to get around Paris we took the Metropolitan and learned that the doors close after the train has been stopped for about 3o seconds, and if you want to get off you actually have to turn a handle to get the door to open otherwise you are trapped until the next stop. I think we gave the regulars a laugh because we were definitely obvious with out tourist stunts. The girls loved the ride and Sophie has found a new profession as a pole dancer and she refused to sit and swung around as long as she could keep her balance.
Once off of the Metro, we headed to see some sights. First main attraction was the famous roundabout that Chevy Chase gets stuck on in the movie, National Lampoon's European Vacation. One more check on my list of things to do before i die...Next we walked through beautiful gardens to get to the Louvre. This is the museum (as i call it) that is known for housing an enormous amount of artwork including the Mona Lisa. I was quite impressed with all of the art, and least impressed with the Mona Lisa, but once again it is another check on the list. The girls got bored and tired of walking after about...2 minutes...so they found entertainment in complaining and playing everywhere they could. the guards were not impressed, but we found great photo opportunities when they would stand over air vents to watch their dresses and hair fly up. Sophie also enjoyed napping on the floor and playing in the fireplaces that were there as artwork but her entertainment as well.
We then headed to get ice cream (amazing) and play at the Paris Carnival...this was a big hit with the kids and a nice break from their complaining. Although short-lived, my energy outlasted everyones as i carried Sophie for about 3 miles of walking as we headed to the Eiffel Tower. On the way she decided to add a little to her baby book by making it possible for her to say that she peed in a bush on the streets of Paris. That is something to be proud of. But once we got to the Tower everyone was dead and I searched for my long lost Chi Omega Love Laura Tepich who happened to be in Paris at the same time as I was. I hopelessly searched and searched among the thousands of people below the Tower and after about 30 minutes of walking and looking i was about to give up. But Brittney and I took one more walk around the tower when we were about to head back to the Family resting on the benches and there, as the crowds parted, was my XO Sister. And I screamed and ran to her in disbelief, hugged her, introduced her to the family, took 'Dad's' money and headed off with Laura and her friends to adventure on our own as the Duffy's headed back to the hotel. And as dramatic and movie like as that all sounds, it is quite true and i am still trying to believe it myself.
We spent 3 hours in line and on the Eiffel Tower together. After waiting for a Lift forever and having it breakdown only to send us to another line, we decided to walk up the stairs. This means 57 flights of stairs were climbed, about 700 up and then 700 down again) just to get to the second level of the tower. Exhausted and sore, we then took a lift to the summit where we had a breathtaking view. the Tower was lit up the whole time we were on it due to the nightfall and we took as many pictures as possibly and then rushed down the stairs so that we could watch the tower sparkle at midnight. I must say that this would have been incredible at anytime, but the fact that i was with one of my beloved sorority sisters at midnight in Paris at the Eiffel Tower is just something that one cannot forget. I believe my life is complete :o)
After this adventure, we wandered around, caught up on life, and then headed back to her hotel with her friends. She then called me a taxi so that i could find my way back home at 1 AM. Waking up my lovely Cathy, i managed to get a bit of sleep before headed out again on more adventures.
Our second day in Paris was quick but fulfilling. we went to Notre Dame which, although i don't believe in Catholicism, was remarkable. We then shopped, ate, wandered and took in more of Paris at the Playgrounds and such, and then loaded up the van only to get on the road once again. We drove for a few hours until the second half of our Holiday was about to begin.
The girls all set for our adventure.
my cup of coffee in France....little do the French know, it takes more than this to keep me going with the little ones all day long. but i made due
The Novotel Paris....our hotel
The Metropolitan
This is what i think of when someone says Europe
Just a big building to me, but if i knew French i might be able to tell you what it is.
National Lampoon's European Vacation roundabout
The Assemblee Nationale
Breathtaking
Precious....Kevin and Brittney walking hand in hand...i love my camera
Outside the Louvre
again
a cool statue inside
Proof that i saw the Mona Lisa
Me trying to make it more interesting for the girls while i took pictures of the mocking the paintings....haha once again, the guards were not impressed
Sophie in the fireplace
Sophie's hair blowing in the air
When Children (and Cathy) have had too much....
Brittney was given permission to sick her feet into the fountain, she however decided this meant to stand in it but fell and created a show for the hundreds of people surrounding it. I laughed and then disowned her.
After i claimed her again, we took a little ride on the Ferris Wheel so we could overlook all of Paris
The Eiffel Tower (and if you didn't know that then you should probably go back to school)
My family for the summer, and the rest of my life
beauty
my best friend, second mom, and sister all in one. And the girls trying to stay out of the picture after i yelled at them for always cutting in and not letting Cathy and I get a good shot. Stinkers
My Laura and I on the top of the Eiffel Tower
second level....it is beautiful
i want to go back
Brittney and I having a cuddle on a street in Paris. I love my mini me
a cool fountain that had the most disgusting water in it that i have ever seen.
a model of Notre Dame
The doors of Notre Dame.....creepy
looking across
the main service area.....church was going on and i was taking pictures like a bad girl
wow
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