Get Unsafe Chemicals Off Store Shelves!

Tweet & email the U.S. Senators from your state to let them know that you want meaningful change to the chemical regulation standards last set in 1976.

Step 1 - Email your Senators NOW to tell the senate we want strong TSCA (Toxic Substances Control Act) reform!

Step 2 - Find your Senators' Twitter Handles HERE.

Step 3 - Copy and paste their handles into the Twitter Sharing tool below with your message and tweet them to show how much you care!

Sample tweet: @senatorsname I'm a mom who wants toxic chemical laws fixed! Support stronger TSCA reform, please!

Welch's Refreshingly Simple Juice

As most of you probably know, Schylar (my 4-year-old) is a juice-a-holic.  I try to find nutritious options for her because that is literally all she will drink.  We were chosen by BzzAgent to try Welch's Refreshingly Simple free for our honest opinions, and were given the option of what flavor we wanted.  I decided to try the Strawberry Raspberry flavor.
Schy was quite excited when the bottle arrived of "strawberry" juice and once it was chilled, she got to break out her sippy cup!  She chugged it down quick, just as she does her normal favorites and said it was yummy and tasted like strawberries.  I was nervous about the raspberry addition being there, but she made no mention of flavors besides strawberry, and has been asking for more since.  It's a nice replacement for her normal favorites.  It doesn't seem to be too sugary, there's not a sugar rush and crash that occur with other brand name juices.  All in all, we love Welch's Refreshingly Simple!
If you'd like to try some out, I have some coupons for $.75 off to share!

YSL Black Opium

As I mentioned in yesterday's post, I was lucky enough to score TWO Influenster Vox Boxes in the last couple weeks.  The second one I received, I'll be reviewing today.  The second box was from Yves Saint Laurent, their new perfume Black Opium.  Even the name of it had me intrigued.

This perfume boasts of scents of vanilla bean, white flowers, and black coffee.  Upon reading that, my nose hesitated.  Not a coffee drinker, so just the thought of smelling like a coffee shop had me nervous to try it.  Don't hesitate like I did!
The "coffee" scent is minimal, I wouldn't have even guessed that's what it was.  I do love the combination these scents make together.  It's a very feminine, sexy scent.  Perfect for special occasions or romantic nights out.  If you get those, that is.  As a mom of 2, soon to be 3, date nights usually consist of "Netflix & Chill" as kids these days are calling it (and by chill I mean literally, pig out on junk food and fall asleep).
A small bottle runs $25, which is equivalent to what I'd normally pay for a small bottle, so this may be on my list next time I need to replace perfume!

Apple & Eve Review

As most of my readers know, I am a part of one of the coolest sites out there, Influenster!  This site offers great products for free, in exchange for your honest review.  In the past couple weeks, I've actually received TWO VoxBoxes from them.  The first, what I'm going to review today, is the Apple & Eve VoxBox.
My two daughters are always happy to be my guinea pigs, but when they found out this box was all for them, they were ecstatic!  My 4-year old even helped me film the unboxing video!

With our box, we received three Quenchers (the size of a normal Hi-C juice box) and a one-liter bottle of Apple & Eve Organics (ours was Tart Cherry).
The girls impatiently waited while we put the juice in the fridge to get cold, and were quite pleased that they were ready to drink at dinner time.  They each grabbed a Quencher, and shared so the other sister could try her juice.  They said they could not pick a favorite, but based on how quickly it was chugged down, I'm thinking the Razzberry Apple Splash was definitely the winner!  

Sorry for the dark picture...
The tart cherry juice went quickly as well, the whole liter was gone within a day (I did mention my 4 year old loves juice, right?).  I personally wasn't a fan of the flavor, but my daughter was, and has changed her ways of picking juices at the store now.  I was a big fan of the after party of Apple & Eve juice drinking...there was no sugar rush, and therefore no sugar crash!  And because it was 100% organic juice I don't feel bad about it being all my 4-year-old insists on drinking!
Apple & Eve juice is a great choice for moms with kids who are picky and won't drink milk or water, like Schy.  It's also a great treat for kids who constantly choose milk to be able to have a drink of juice and still be healthy!

It's Not Photoshop, It's Airbrushed!

Recently, I was given the opportunity to try out a new product available in stores, Sally Hanson Air Brush Legs.  Most of the products I receive to review I receive free, this product I did have to purchase at a reduced price.
The original product was listed in my local Walmart store at $11.74 for a 4 oz bottle.  Financially, this a lot better deal than the Bodyology bottle of tanner I have that costs $27 for 2.8 oz.
There were many different airbrush products in our store:  legs or face, lotion or spray, 5 shades for each (Fairest, Light, Medium, Tan, and Deep).  I chose the Medium Leg Lotion to try out.
I normally stray away from self-tanners because I dislike the orange-glow that they usually give.
The first thing I noticed about this airbrush tanner was the smell.  It did have a rather unpleasant smell to it.  Something I didn't experience with my Bodyology tanner.
The bottle says to use a quarter-sized amount and rub in to legs.  When I squeezed some out, I had my doubts; the color looked dark.  As I spread it out on my legs it seemed to lighten and ended up being not much darker than my tan is now (you know, the tan that I'd been hitting tanning beds and sitting outside for hours since April!).  It spread easily without getting clumpy so my legs ended with a nice even tan.  Dried quickly, within a minute or two.
I was concerned with smearing so I have been checking my black leather couch and my shorts for marks (I applied a few hours ago) and so far no rub-off!!  I also want to note that the original odor out-of-the-bottle went away after application..
I'm pleasantly surprised by the tanning effect of this product.  It doesn't make me look orange, and it's less than half the price of my favorite tanner!
As you can see in the picture, the colors aren't too far off.  Leg on the left is au naturale, I've been tanning since April leg.  Leg on the right is the airbrushed legs.  Nice even tan and it seemed to fade some of my scars!

If you'd like to try this product for yourself, I've been given permission to share this coupon with you for $2 off.  Hope you enjoy it as much as I do!!
Leaving tomorrow early morning to go on our mini-vacation for my birthday.  We finally decided on a destination.  Bushkill Falls in the Poconos.  We originally said about Niagara Falls, NY but Bushkill is half the distance for us and is considered the "Niagara of Pennsylvania."  We're staying at the Budget Inn overnight tomorrow and then coming home sometime Saturday.  Plan on having a nice full day of hiking through the waterfalls, mini golfing, paddle boats, mining for gems, yummy food.  Perfect birthday!!  Full review with pictures at a later date, promise!

July Ipsy Reviews!

So the results are in folks, for those of you that were just dying to here how my extra-special birthday bag goodies were.  In total I'd give my random bag (not including the two items I picked out and purchased with my points):

First up for review:  Jelly Pong Pong Cosmetics 2-in-1 Shadow/Liner in Bronze.  So their website description of this product is:  "A uniquely formulated crayon that doubles as an eyeliner for thick, precise lines as well as a perfectly-blended eye shadow.  Creamy texture with long-lasting hold, made with pure beeswax."

Well, it's a nice product.  I wasn't a fan of it as an eye shadow per say, I like shadow that goes on easy, either roll-on or in powder form.  This was definitely crayon form and I had to "cake" it on as an eye shadow.  However, when using it as just an eyeliner, it went on rather easily and had a nice copper tone to it.  I normally rock black eyeliner, so it made my look more subtle than normal.  With a $16 price tag, I don't believe I'd order it, but I still give Jelly Pong Pong a B+

Next up for review:  Eau Thermale Avène Cleanance Gel Soapless Cleanser.  This product...nervous upon receiving it.  The entirety of the bottle text was in another language, what appears to be French.  The ingredients all seemed to be normal in cleansers so I tested it anyways.  This product made my face break out like crazy!  I don't know what it was, but it was like hitting puberty within hours of using it.  It did have a great cleaning quality to it; I was able to painlessly wash off mascara and black eyeliner with it.  A full-sized bottle is $20.  I definitely would not purchase!!

Overall, I gave Eau Themale Avene a D.

Next:  Coolway Beachy Salt Spray.  On their site, this product boasts:  "Perfect for creating beachy waves and natural styles, for a non-sticky matte finished look."  The bottle says to use on damp or dry hair.  My first attempt using this product I used on damp hair.  The plus side was that it didn't have that typical hair spray smell.  The minus side was that it didn't really help make my hair look beachy or hold waves.  I decided to give a second attempt on dry hair the following day.  Day #2 attempt...well, I had a hair spray feel.  My hair was quite sticky, and it made it very frizzy (although, I guess that's true to their statement...when I go to the beach my hair normally does frizz!).

I'm not a big fan of hair spray in the first place, and the stickiness this product left in my hair after the dry usage is precisely why.  $12.95 per bottle, I would not purchase.  But, because they did hold true to some of their claims, I gave Coolway a C-.

Next up:  Aurora Gel Effect Nail Polish in 4 Alarm Fire.  This product I'm impressed with.  On their site they state they deliver the salon-quality gel manicure without UV-lamps or professional equipment.  Now I must confess, the directions recommend using a base coat, apply 2 layers of color and then top coat, and it should air dry within 3-4 minutes.  I didn't have a base coat, and my top coat is kinda blah, so I just put on one layer of the polish to see how it would do.  It was quick-drying, didn't even take the 3-4 minutes (although I didn't have 4 layers on, so that could explain it).  It's been on a week, and even with my nail chewing (you can see the tips gone in the picture lol), the polish is standing strong.  Even with an entire day out swimming, where the chlorine normally would eat polish away.  I haven't been to a nail salon in so long that this polish feels like a $50 manicure!  Plus:  I used it on my daughters (because they love having their nails done as well).  It has been 4 days, and somehow this polish has survived my 4 year old, who normally has hers chewed off within the hour!
These bottle are normally $12, but are on sale right now for $7.99.  Even at full price, I would purchase a few other colors to mix up my mani.  It's a great product.
I give it an A+.

Finally, the last item in my actual glam bag:  Be A Bombshell Cosmetics Lip Balm in Ruby.  Their site boasts:  "Hydrating formula to leave lips feeling silky smooth with a hint of color."  I must admit, when I heard ruby lip balm, I thought of my previous matte balms and got excited for a nice bright red.  That wasn't the case with this, the color is very faint.  And although it's listed as ruby, it's more of a pink shade by the time it shows up on your lips.  It was, however, true to form.  It hydrated and made my lips feel amazing while it was on, and it lasted several hours before I had to reapply!  Be a Bombshell is known for good-quality products and this did not let me down.  $14 per tube.  A little more than I'd be willing to pay for a lip balm, but I still grade it with an A+.

Lastly, my two purchases:  Bodyography Natural Finish Face Bronzer.  On their site, they describe this product as "a product that will give your skin that Caribbean glow...naturally!  Created with minerals for every skin tone, this buildable formula is packed with powerful anti-aging ingredients.  Natural Finish Face Bronzer imparts a revitalized feeling to the skin while providing light coverage and a gorgeous, natural looking tan!"  Not a lie.  This is the first bronzer that I didn't have to worry about shade-matching with.  It blended right in to my skin tone and left a nice "extra tan" (since my face isn't quite as tan as my body somehow).  I also loved that the formula is sparkly.  My fiancee was going to test it out (he's very fair complexion) until he saw that...apparently sparkles are only for male vampires?

Anywho, at $27 a bottle, I'd say it's definitely worth it.  I think this one may last me some time, but it's possible I'll be purchasing another one when I run out!  A+

Always save the best for last, right?  Buxom Eyeshadow Bar Single Eyeshadow in Gold Status. I realized while writing this that the link in my last post for this amazing product wasn't working.  Honestly, I'm not trying to keep it all to myself!   But seriously, if you haven't guessed it, I love love love this eyeshadow!!  Such a gorgeous gold shade, with just the right amount of sparkle.  Sephora shows 40 shades for this brand (although some are sold out online).  I believe I'll be picking up some more my next trip out there!  They're $12 per shadow and $2 for an empty compact case (I'm sure you don't need the case, but mine came along with my purchase from Ipsy).  Long-lasting color.  Definitely an A+.

So that's it, that was my amazing July bag.

Keep an eye out for the end of the week or early next week.  Our Loot Crate subscription box should be in the mail and we'll post all our cool gadgets as well (hubby gets to keep most of the stuff, although I steal the T-shirts and managed to get the super-hero ice cube tray and Game of Thrones magnets away from him!).
Also, since it is my birthday this weekend, we'll be disappearing Friday and Saturday, taking a day trip up to Niagara Falls (although we have to stay state-side because of the passport requirement now).  Then Saturday we'll be coming home and going to the Hotel we're having our wedding ceremony and reception at, get that all squared away financially and make the final arrangements with the caterer...plan decorations and seating charts with my maid of honor.
Our invitations are being printed as we speak, custom-made by a friend's wife and boy, did she do a fantastic job!!).  I've subcontracted the baking of the cake and cupcakes (I know, lazy me!) to a young lady I saw on facebook.  She's a baker at the local Walmart and goes to the local community college for culinary but does her own baking on the side.  Her work is quite impressive, and for a cake to feed 30+ and 50 cupcakes she's only charging $125, which isn't bad at all considering the original place we wanted to make the cake, the cake alone would have been $175!
Oh, did I mention...only 102 days until my wedding?  :D
And for those worried about the blogger behind the blog:  I'm doing good, just dealing with this pregnancy.  This child does not like most of the foods that I eat (it's not mine, it doesn't like stuffed crust pizza!) and it seems impossible to be able to swallow my own saliva because if any little bit of phlegm goes down, I'm running for the toilet.  I'm 9.5 weeks right now.  Hopefully this subsides with the end of the first trimester and I'll be back to normal.
I am back to work...officially as of tomorrow.  Only took them a month and a half, but they finally got my restrictions figured out.  Amazingly, I still haven't received the 176 hours of disability pay I was supposed to be receiving while I was out.  Smh...the way their employee resource center is set up...well, it's not to be a resource for employees, that's for sure!!

Ipsy Subscription: July Glam Bag

Since every other blog seems to be a review site, I figured to kill some boredom, I might as well do a few reviews per month, since I subscribe to the Ipsy Glam bag and Jeff subscribes to Loot Crate.

This month, in my Ipsy bag, I did receive two extra items which I had purchased with points I'd been saving up.  Through Ipsy, you earn points through reviews and referrals.  I haven't referred anyone, but in the months that I've subscribed to Ipsy I've done reviews on all the products I've received and had saved up over 1,000 points.  If you're interested, click the picture...you can be my first referral! (Hey, a girl's gotta try lol).

So this month, my glam bag includes:  Bodyography Natural Finish Face Bronzer (2.5 oz, purchased for 500 points), Coolway Beachy Salt Spray (0.5 oz), Eau Thermale Avène Cleanance Gel Soapless Cleanser (0.84 oz), Aurora Gel Effect Nail Polish (Color:  4 Alarm Fire, 0.4 oz), Be A Bombshell Cosmetics Lip Balm (Color:  Ruby, 0.16 oz), Jelly Pong Pong Cosmetics 2-in-1 Shadow/Liner (Color:  Bronze, 0.10 oz), and Buxom Eyeshadow Bar Single Eyshadow (Color:  Gold Status, 0.05 oz, purchased for 500 points).
I wanted this bag to be special since my birthday is in a week and a half.  What better treat than a present to yourself?
Before I even dig in and try out the products, I like to see how I've done, value-wise, by doing a little googling!
First up, Bodyography Natural Finish Face Bronzer.  I received a 2.5 oz sample.  Upon going to their website, I discovered 2.5 oz isn't a sample at all.  That is a full-sized tube of bronzer, which they sell for $27!  SCORE!
Next:  Coolway Beachy Salt Spray.  I received a 0.5 oz sample.  Their full-sized container is 3.3 oz and sells for $12.95.  Do the math and that means the sample I received should cost about $1.96.
Next up:  Eau Thermale Avène Cleanance Gel Soapless Cleanser.  This bottle confuses me a bit, because the only English printed on it says "Hypoallergenic" and "Free Sample".  The rest is in French, and it's been a very long time since I've taken a French class!  Anyways, my sample is 0.84 oz and their full-sized bottle is 6.76 oz and sells for $20.  That would equal $2.49 for my "free sample"...
Next:  Aurora Gel Effect Nail Polish in 4 Alarm Fire.  I couldn't verify the amount in the full-sized bottle, but normally a nail polish you receive with Ipsy is full-sized.  This one would appear to be as well.  Right now, it's on sale for $7.99, regularly priced at $12.
What Next?  Be A Bombshell Cosmetics Lip Balm in Ruby.  This one, again I couldn't verify if what I received was a full-sized product or not, but my judgment based off their website leans toward yes, another full-sized product.  Price?  $14.
The next product:  Jelly Pong Pong Cosmetics 2-in-1 Shadow/Liner in Bronze.  I was quite curious about this product because I've never heard of the company name before, and let's be honest...I giggled when I heard it.  Turns out, they're a cruelty-free company in Italy and this particular piece is made completely out of beeswax.  Interesting!  Well, yet another full-sized piece (I got lucky this month!!), valued at $16.
Lastly, my final points purchase:  Buxom Eyeshadow Bar Single Eyshadow in Gold Status.  This was another full-sized product, and came with the eyeshadow try (which I was not aware, but this piece is typically sold separately).  The eyeshadow bar comes in at $12, the tray an additional $2 for a total of $14.

So the total of in-bag items (assuming that "free sample" wasn't free, and the nail polish was on sale when purchased) would be $42.44.  Add the items that I purchased with my points and the grand total is $83.44.  It's a great day to be me in Ipsy world!  :D
Now when I try some of these fantastic products (because my face is already made up today), I will post my reviews and let y'all know if you need to head to Sephora and splurge!

Bon Appetit!

As I mentioned in a previous blog entry, BzzAgent gave me the opportunity to try out this new brand of frozen pizza, Bon Appetit.  What could sound better to a pregnant woman than free pizza, right?  Well...
Last Friday, went to do my normal grocery shopping at the Giant Foods in my hometown.  I got to the freezer section and found this brand of pizza.  I'd done some research so I was going in with this expectation of walking out with a trio bacon pizza.  This brand makes five varieties.  Who would want to guess what flavor my local store didn't carry?  Yep, my trio bacon.  Start of heartbreak here.
My daughters chose a pepperoni and pesto pizza, and like normal I picked out a second pizza...hubby and I are huge pizza fans so we normally get our grub on.  I grabbed a mozzarella and pesto for us, since I know he's not a big veggies-on-my-pizza fan.
Get home, have those pizzas sitting in the fridge all weekend (thanks to morning sickness, food slipped to the bottom of my must-need list for a couple days).  Last night I finally pulled those suckers out of the freezer.  Hubby was home from work early, it's the start of a week of mandatory overtime for him, and I go back to work next week so figured we'd have one last evening of cuddling, eating pizza and Netflix before all hell breaks loose!
Heat the oven to 425 and pop them in, 12 minutes later they're done.  Not bad, Digiorno normally averages about 20 minutes so I'm happy with a shorter cook time!  Although the size comparison...a Digiorno pizza normally takes up almost all of my pizza pan; these...well, not so much.
So I cut the pizzas and delivered to my family.  My 4-year-old LOVED the pepperoni and pesto pizza.  So much so that she ate 4 pieces!!  My 6-year-old was not a fan of the pepperoni and pesto, she said it was too spicy and drank an entire glass of water with her one piece of pizza.
My hubby and I tried both the pepperoni and mozzarella pieces.  Hubby was not impressed with either.  I enjoyed the mozzarella to a point, the cherry tomatoes on it were a bit bitter, but everything else was enjoyable.  The pepperoni, on the other hand, I tend to agree with my daughter, quite bitey.  (This coming from a girl who could eat hot wings all day)  I took one bite of the pizza where the pesto was on top of the pepperoni and it instantly burnt my tongue...so much so that I felt dehydrated and couldn't taste anything the rest of the night!
Might be better for a more organic person looking for a frozen pizza, but for someone who regularly buys stuffed crust 3-Meat pizzas, not the road to go down!
I do appreciate the opportunity to try it however, and if any of my friends wish to try, I still have two $1 off coupons I can send!

Cooking with Jack

I'm not allowed to drink, so rather than expect my fiancee to take care of all the alcohol in our house (although in reality he really wouldn't mind), I've decided to find as many recipes with alcohol as possible.  Finished off the rest of our bottle of Jack Daniels tonight with this amazing marinade for steak.

Marinated Jack Daniel's Barbecue Flank Steak

1 1/2 lbs flank steak
1/2 cup Jack Daniel's Original No. 7 Barbecue Grilling Sauce
1/4 cup Jack Daniel's whiskey
1 scallion, chopped
1 tbsp vegetable oil
2 ice cubes

In a small bowl, mix together 1/4 cup of Jack Daniel's Grilling Sauce with the whiskey and set aside.
In a small saucepot, saute the scallion in vegetable oil until lightly browned and reduce heat.
Add Grilling sauce mixture and cook for 3 minutes, stirring often.
Remove from stove, stir in remaining Grilling Sauce and ice cubes to chill the sauce.
Once sauce is completely cooled, pour over flank steak to marinate.
Place into resealable plastic bag and allow to marinate for 4-24 hours in refrigerator, turning occasionally to distribute marinade evenly.
Grill steak over medium heat to desired doneness, turning halfway through.
For added flavor, brush additional marinade on steak while grilling.

That with some loaded potato salad and creamed corn, with cherry turn-overs for dessert.  Mmmmm-mmmm, good!
Jeff surprised the girls and I yesterday on his way home from work.  He stopped for gas, and picked us all up chocolate bars for after dinner.  Something as small as that makes me all heart-happy and teary-eyed.  I've always longed for a relationship where the little romantic things are done regularly, and this man....he's exactly it.  He's what I've always wanted, what I always needed.
He didn't respond the best when we first found out I was pregnant.  He was nervous, obviously, and since he just finally started college, he was concerned how that would pan out.  But as time's going by, he's getting so much better.  He has literally crawled out of bed at 1AM to go get me food from Sheetz.  He has gone out of his way to get something specific for me on his way home from work.  And he's been so loving with me, which is exactly what I crave right now...I'm truly blessed to have him.
And his demeanor with the girls...it hasn't changed.  He's still amazing with them.  Overly so.  He plans on adopting them both when we're married.  That way, by the time the baby comes, we'll all have the same last name.
The girls...they're amazing.  I expected some negativity from Viv as she's always said she doesn't want another baby sibling, but she's adjusted well and is always coming over and hugging my belly, kissing it.  Schylar...well she's just this big cuddly lovebug, always has been.  

Better Than Free Diapers!!

So I stumbled upon the most amazing thing ever while perusing Facebook today.  A link for free Huggies diapers!
If you've never signed up for a TopCashBack account, or have an account through them but have never made a purchase before, this offer is for you!
Head over to their Huggies deal and read all the juicy details.
Click the red button that says Get Cashback.
You'll now be redirected to the Walmart site.  It will direct you to the Huggies Snug & Dry Ultra Diapers listed for $7.97.  Add whatever size you need to your cart (note:  this must be the only thing in your cart, sadly you can only get one!).
You can choose to pay to have it shipped to you, or do as I did and click Free Store Pick-Up (since diapers are normally in stock, you can pick it up the same day).
Pay the $7.97 (here's where having that Walmart savings catcher app comes in handy...I had $5.82 cash back from the app that I was able to apply, so my out of pocket cost is $2.15!)
Within 7 days, you'll receive the $9 cash back from TopCashBack.  This will be sent to your account (either Amazon gift card, bank account, or paypal account) after 14 days.
If you choose to be paid out with an Amazon gift card, they add 2.5% bonus on top, so you'd end up getting paid $9.22 instead of $9!

This offer is only available until 23:59 PT on Monday July 13, 2015 or until stock runs out so hurry!!
It also only applies while diapers are priced at $7.97; if the price changes, the deal is over.
TopCashBack does not limit their offers to one account per household, so every member of your house could sign up technically and reap the benefits!  Just make sure they use your Refer-a-Friend link, you get $10 for everyone who signs up and makes a purchase using your link!

Jack Daniels Cupcakes

2 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 cup cocoa powder
2 cups brown sugar
2 tsp baking soda
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp salt
2 eggs
1/2 cup strong coffee
1/2 cup Jack Daniels whiskey
1 cup buttermilk
1/2 cup vegetable oil

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

In a large bowl, stir the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking soda, baking powder and salt together.

In a separate large bowl, combine the eggs, coffee, whiskey, buttermilk and oil.

Pour the egg mixture into the flour mixture and whisk until smooth.

Spoon the mixture into prepared cupcake wrappers.

Bake for about 18-20 minutes until the tops spring back when lightly pressed.

Cool completely before frosting.

Notes:  I didn't realize beforehand that I didn't have 2 cups worth of brown sugar, so I substituted white sugar...they still turned out good, but next time I'll test with brown sugar to see if there's a difference.

I used cream cheese frosting...the strong flavor of the frosting takes away a bit from the cupcake, I recommend trying vanilla, or I did find a JD Icing recipe you can test out!

Frosting:

1/2 cup butter, room temperature

3 cups powdered sugar

Jack Daniels

3 tbsp strong coffee

Beat together butter, powdered sugar and strong coffee.

Then add Jack Daniels until it gets to the consistency of icing.

Made these as a test-run for the ones I plan on making for our wedding.  Ignore the icing in the photos, my children like cream cheese frosting and decided since they weren't allowed to eat the cupcakes, they'd at least test out the icing.  *sigh*

I Need Something

I really need to find something to do with all my spare time right now, that doesn't include spending money...or cleaning.
I should actually clean.  My kitchen floor is filthy.  But every time I get the urge to do it, I don't have the energy.  I don't have the energy to do much at all right now, actually.
Except for lay around a swimming pool.  That would be fantastic.  Anyone got a pool I can use?  Anyone?  *crickets*  Damn...I could take the girls to Hershey and just laze around their pool.  But that requires driving up there...and that involves gas.  Gas = money...and usually food, too because once I get to an amusement park with all the fried food odors cleansing my nose...I will need to eat.
This kid...has no set stone on cravings.  The other night Jeff and I were laying in bed, almost 1 AM, he had to work the next day...and I say, "I could really go for some baked macaroni and cheese...and buffalo chicken."  He agreed that buffalo chicken sounded good, and left to go to Sheetz (the only place that sells both pre-made at that hour).  And then we spent the next two hours chowing down and finishing season 4 of Game of Thrones.
Although in his defense, I let him call off work the next day.  3 hours of sleep wouldn't have worked well.
4th of July was a little rough this year...it rained most of the day, which matched my mood.  Would have been my mom's birthday...the first one without her here.  Baked Jack Daniels Cupcakes and went over to my dad's to share, but he wasn't home.  Never did tell me where he went.  So we went to my grandma and brother's house and shared cupcakes with them.  My brother made yummy chocolate peanut butter brownies so we got our sugar on, and just relaxed and talked for awhile.  Him and I have gotten a lot closer lately, and I'm glad.  He was my best friend growing up, then I became a bratty teenager and we grew apart.
The cupcakes were a test run for what I'm planning on making for the wedding.  They turned out good, but you can definitely tell they have JD in them, so I'll be buying a small cake for the kids and me.  I used cream cheese icing this time around, but I think I'll test with vanilla next time.  The cupcakes have a strong taste, which is amazing, but it doesn't blend as well with an icing that also has a strong flavor.
Jeff gets his loan check within the next couple weeks, and once we get that wedding payments/planning will be in full swing.  I have everything mostly planned, just haven't had the finances to pay for it.  We're going to the hotel on my birthday for dinner with my maid of honor, so her and I can get a layout plan, find out about seating for the reception, and pay for the catering for the reception.
I plan on getting this cake for those of us that can't eat the alcohol filled concoctions I'll be baking:

Only I'll probably do red/black for the outer frosting to go with the reception theme colors, and then just do the inside frosting either pink or blue.
I'm 7 weeks now, I'll be 20 weeks the first week of October so by then I'll find out what I'm having.  May be the hardest secret for me to keep until the end of October when we get married, but I really wanna announce it to everyone at the reception.  That way no one can say, "Well he or she knew before I did, what the hell?!"  Not that I've experienced that at any point in my last three pregnancies (note the sarcasm?).  

One thing I HATE this pregnancy...is preggo brain!  Seriously, I have never felt so forgetful in my life!!  I asked Jeff to stop at the store (well, my phone auto-corrected to sell our door...) for two things, milk.  He was like, and what else?  Ummmm, my brain forgets, I think just milk.  Luckily, I remembered the second thing, soda...just as he was leaving the store.  Ugh, so frustrating.
We were running around yesterday, trying to find a barber shop that was open (since when are barber shops NOT open on a Monday?!).  We stopped at the mall and of course I meandered into Children's Place.  Found this adorable little sleeper for $4.80 and had to get it.

Boy or girl, this baby will wear race car jammies!  Was a little nervous because they're newborn size (up to 7 lbs) and let's face it, my kids came out weighing more than that.  But maybe it'll get a week's use when it's first born.  Guess that means I'll have to do laundry more than once a week now, damn.
I'd say I have high hopes for a smaller baby, but check this:

This would be my adorable little 6-week bump.  Yeah, I'm competing with a friend who is due in a month, and only growing bigger by the day, so I don't think this baby is going to be small.  He/she likes to eat.

And what can make a pregnant girl happier than free food?  Seriously.  If you haven't signed up for BzzAgent yet, I highly recommend it!  This site has campaigns where top brand names send you free stuff and you get to test it out (and keep it) and review!  The more active you are in the campaign, the better your chances of getting referred to others.  The first one I got to complete last year right before Christmas was for Hasbro!  I got three popular games for the kids to play, including Monopoly Jr.
Well, they emailed me a couple weeks ago saying I'd been chosen for a campaign by Bon Appétit™. 

I get one free pizza, plus coupons for $1 off to give out to friends and family (and unsuspecting people at the grocery store) who may be interested in trying them.  They have a bacon trio pizza, and I think it has my name on it.  I seriously can't wait to go grocery shopping this weekend to pick up my free pizza and try it!  The reviews I've read so far are all positive.

I'll write an official blog review when I pick mine up and try it.
And I'll include a special post of my Jack Daniels cupcake recipe for those interested in trying it!

I Have an Announcement!

So, it's now official.  He called his parents and one of his sisters on Father's Day and let them know he's going to be a dad.  They're all very excited for him, and hoping for a boy as well.  His other sister I messaged on facebook (I actually get along with her better than he does) and she hopes for a girl, so that we don't have a mini-Jeff lol.
I really want a boy.  To the point of already referring to the creature in my stomach as 'he.'  I'd be happy with a girl, but I really don't want to have to referee between 3 girls!  Plus, I really like the name that we've come up with for a boy.
Still haven't gotten the release to go back to work.  It's been almost two weeks I've been out on leave.  Wednesday last week the doctor faxed in my return paperwork, and I'm still waiting to hear from HR about when I can return since I'll be on restrictions.  I better get paid for this time!!
Anyway, without further ado...the official announcement pictures.

At least I've been able to sleep.  I've been sleeping a lot lately.  Eating it up while I can I guess.

Strained Shoulder and Such

I managed to strain my shoulder at work.  Possibly the most painful thing I've gone through, and the healing process is just as bad.  I can't move my arm.  Which means I haven't showered properly in at least a week.
The doctor put me on Vicodin and prescription Ibuprofen for the pain.  Taking it, I feel high as a kite.  Dizzy, sleepy.  Literally slept 12 hours straight...during the day time.  Needless to say I had to put in for leave from work, not because of the injury itself but because of the meds...can't drive myself to work if I feel like sleeping all the time.
Wonderfully, I discovered that if I don't take my meds, the pain is bearable, and I don't feel like sleeping all the time.  So when I go to the doctor this week, I'm going to see if they can sign the slip for me to go back on restriction.  I'd rather be there doing something than not doing anything at all.  Besides, I have a wedding to pay for.

This year has brought lots of ups and downs for my family.  I look back and giggle at the ultimatum I gave Jeff, a wedding or a baby.  He sighed, poured a shot for each of us and proposed.  Now, looks like I'm getting both.

Oh wait, what?

Major, we have a fuck up.  See, I'm usually very good with tracking my period and knowing when it's safe to have sex.  On Day 6 of my cycle, when I'm still lightly bleeding from my period, it's generally a safe time to have sex and he can cum freely (haha, that sounded so dirty)...well, who the hell told my body to release an egg early?  I've been feeling it all month...on May 27, not even a week after we had sex, I started having cramps.  Bad cramps, to the point I left work early.  I knew they weren't menstrual either, so my first thought was great, implantation cramping?  Since then I've lost my appetite and have felt nauseous a couple times.  Plus been having random cravings (this really expensive appetizer at this expensive restaurant we like to go to....and vanilla ice cream covered in rainbow sprinkles...yes, I've had both fulfilled :D).

When my period was two days late I knew it was time to test.  I'd been writing these symptoms off as side effects of the pain killers, but I know my period and it is never more than a day late.  I told Jeff at the grocery store that morning, and took it when we got home.
He's not exactly happy about it.  He just started college and is still working full-time, so he's concerned how we'll balance things.  I told him I managed a job, school and a baby at 16 without spousal support.  He's not alone in this, I will make sure he has time to study.  His education is our future, and as long as he's willing to put in the long hours, I am too.
In other news, summer is in full swing!  Viv finished her last week of kindergarten the first week of this month, shedding a few tears in the process [both her and me].  She did amazing this year and has blossomed so much.  She is excited for first grade and all the new adventures it will bring!  Her report card showed all proficient's and outstanding's.  She made many new friends this year, several friendships I hope to be able to encourage to flourish over the summer through play dates and picnics.
She also had her softball picnic to celebrate the end of the season.  The coach congratulated her for having the most progress in hitting.  At the beginning, she was terrified to hit off the tee.  In their last game, she hit four times by coach pitch, slamming it the first toss!
We've made a Summer Fun [Bucket] List full of reading, hikes, places to go, food to eat, water fun, arts and crafts and a few pay it forward's!

We'll hopefully be getting Schylar into pre-school this fall.  I'm a bit concerned with her starting school.  She has no urge to learn, and what she does learn is like in one ear, out the other.  The doctors aren't sure if she's ADHD or just that damn stubborn lol.

Jeff started school at the beginning of the month.  Month 1 out of 32 for his bachelor's degree.  It'll all be worth it when he's working for Blizzard and we're nestled somewhere in Anaheim...or working for the company that made Smite and living in Atlanta.  Those are his two dream corporations to work for.
I've started working on our ancestries.  Found some fairly interesting things so far on my side.  Several soldiers in the civil war.  My mom's side fought union, my dad's side fought confederate.  None of the confederate soldiers came home.  One actually died in the battle of Gettysburg, which happened 20 minutes down the road from our house.  Gives you goosebumps knowing that!!
Oh, and if you're on facebook, keep the baby hush hush.  The family doesn't all know yet, and we (more like I) want to think of something cute to officially announce with.

Young Love

We've had quite the weekend!  Had an amazing time at Hershey Park on Saturday.  We were so fortunate the rain cleared out.  Just a little chilly with the high only in the 50's, which wouldn't have been bad but it was very windy.  We stayed a good 7 hours though and had plenty of rides!
My children are so much braver than I thought.  Schylar got on her first EVER roller coaster, and Viv got on her second coaster, first non-wooden one.

Yes, the Super Dooper Looper!  They are both Peanut Butter Cups, so they met the minimum ride requirements to get on.  Schy rode with Uncle Rich, Viv rode with Aunt Alicia (and since I got ditched, I stood off to the side taking pictures before the ride started lol).

Viv LOVED it instantly.  Schy was terrified, got off saying, "It was horrible, let's do it again!"  I don't think she knows what the word horrible means lol.
After riding that, Viv's boyfriend and his parents got to the park, so we met up with them.  The kids had a BLAST riding together.  Bryce is very social and includes Schylar in everything, which is so nice because as a parent, I know Viv will have friends and will not always want her sister to tag along, but those that include her sister are a special treat.

Viv is definitely not my kid when it comes to some rides.  She wanted to get on this one and my stomach just said NO lol.  Bryce's mom, Jackie, volunteered to get on with her.  She said my crazy child laughed hysterically the whole time, loving it.  This is the ride.

The picture on the right, if you look in the red cart to the left, you can see my crazy girl in the pink coat trying to lean over and see out the side.  At least I don't have to worry about her being afraid of heights!
It was such a fun time though.  We originally had planned to leave the park around 6, and swing by McDonald's on the way out so we didn't spend an arm and a leg on food in the park.  We all got along so well, Bryce's parents actually offered to buy dinner in the park for all of us so the kids could continue playing.  On the way to get pizza, we passed the karaoke stand and Bryce asked Vivienne to dance, then danced with Schy, then Viv again.
He proceeds to tell Vivienne, "I could marry anyone I want, but I wanna marry you."  He asked his mom and me if we could all sit at a separate table at the pizza place so they could have a date (we allowed it).  He asked his mom if she thought it was a good place to kiss (she said no).  As we were going through Chocolate World, right before we left he told me he loved her.  And in the gift shop he saw a little keychain and was like, "I should have brought my piggy bank money, I wanna buy this for her!"
The innocence and purity behind it is so sweet.  I'm sure in 10 years I'll feel differently when a boy asks if he can take my daughter for pizza, but for now it's so cute.  You can't deny it.

Not to Brag

But...well, okay I'm going to.  I had a fantastic day, which doesn't happen often.
Woke up and did my weekly measurements.  Found even more progress!  Down a total of 10.25 inches and four pounds total.  Although 1/4 of my weight loss has come from my boobs, which saddens me.  It's probably a good thing I didn't measure my butt or this weight loss business would send me into a depression lol.

STARTING:                    AFTER 1 WEEK:                    AFTER 2 WEEKS:
Weight:  166                     164                                              162
Left Arm:  13"                  13"                                               13"
Right Arm:  13"                13.5"                                            13"
Bust:  37"                          36"                                               35"
Belly:  35"                         33"                                               32"
Hips:  39"                          38"                                               37.5"
Left Thigh:  25.5"             24"                                               23.5"
Right Thigh:  25.5"           24.5"                                            24.5"
Left Calf:  16"                   16.5"                                            16.25"
Right Calf:  17"                 16.5"                                            16"

Jeff's best man came over last weekend and he finally got to ask/tell him.  Our wedding party is officially set.  He LOVED Jeff's ring, thought it was awesome.  He's all on board for the wedding.  I found it quite funny, he drove an hour to our house to chill, him and Jeff went on a beer run and watched Frozen with the girls.  Ah, what grown men do on a crazy Saturday night eh?
Today was the start of a short Easter break.  Viv's little "boyfriend" had asked yesterday if her and Schy could come over and play, I said to have his mom call me.  We ended up going over there around 2:00, the kids played hard and before we knew it, it was after 6:00!  They were jumping on the trampoline, driving the Gator around, playing Xbox, just having a good old time.  His mom said he talks about Viv all the time.
It was nice though, not having to worry much about what they were doing, having conversation with another adult female.  I have like ONE friend I talk to on a regular basis, not much of an outgoing meet-new-people type.  She's the same, and we ended up having a lot to talk about.
Tomorrow we're all meeting up at Hershey Park, assuming the rain clears out.  We bought season passes and I was telling his dad about how much more affordable it is with the pass; he ended up buying some for their family too.  My best friend's also going to be there so we'll have a nice little group.
I'm just happy to be able to give my kids a chance to socialize more than I had.  If it wasn't with someone who lived in the development, I didn't get to go to a friend's house until I was in the 3rd grade.  And even then it was very rare.  I want to give the girls every chance to succeed. I can already tell Viv is following in my footsteps though; in school I was surrounded by male friends, even when I was her age.  The fact that two of her best friends in school are boys just proves it lol.  I can't blame her though, Bryce is the sweetest thing I've ever seen.
He gets her book bag for her at school, gets her folder out.  They walk to the front door together.  Today Schy had trouble getting off the trampoline, he jumped down and helped get her down!  His parents are definitely raising a well-mannered man.
Well, off to bed since tomorrow's going to be busy.  Happy Easter all!!

I Swore I Wouldn't Do It

I always said I would never use a tanning bed in my life.  That, because I tan so naturally, I would just let the sun do it's job.  Yeah, so about that.  Tuesday I broke that promise lol.  What's the point of paying for a black card membership to the gym if you don't take advantage?
Tuesday was leg day, Wednesday was ab day.  Ohh, that took some recovery.  I worked 8 hours both nights after spending an hour and a half at the gym.  Owie!  But my abs feel better today, and since it's been a week that I've cut out soda, I decided to hop on the scale and whip out the measuring tape.  One week of no soda and hitting the gym three times...that little bit showed results!

BEFORE                                                                                                     AFTER

          

Weight:  166 lbs                                                                                             Weight:  164 lbs
Left Arm:  13 inches                                                                                     Left Arm:  13 inches
Right Arm:  13 inches                                                                                   Right Arm:  13.5 inches

Bust:  37 inches                                                                                               Bust:  36 inches
Belly:  35 inches                                                                                              Belly:  33 inches
Hips:  39 inches                                                                                               Hips:  38 inches
Left Thigh:  25.5 inches                                                                                Left Thigh:  24 inches
Right Thigh:  25.5 inches                                                                              Right Thigh:  24.5 inches

Left Calf:  16 inches                                                                                        Left Calf:  16.5 inches

Right Calf:  17 inches                                                                                      Right Calf:  16.5 inches

As you can see, it's not HUGE progress, but it's progress.  My TruWeight & Energy supplements came in the mail today, so beginning tomorrow I'll be taking those for a month to see if I notice any more difference.  But so far, in one week I managed to lose two pounds and a total of six inches (and with only seven minutes in the tanning bed you can see I'm a bit darker)!  I'll take it!
We heard from our ceremony/reception venue this week.  We'd been waiting for Doris (the owner of the Hotel) to get back to us with menu options.  We'd already decided on a more casual meal; we're having a mid-day celebration so that we'll be able to be on the road by 6PM for our honeymoon (let's face it, we don't get much time off work before peak starts and Canada is a good 5.5 hour drive, assuming we don't get held up at the border!).
But Doris called, one of her options is just what we were looking for, their Hotel's signature burger, cut in half.  Three big boats of fries.  Veggie and fruit trays.  To feed 50 people would be between $450-$600.  If everyone comes that we invite, there may end up being a bit more than 50, but considering there's a good bit of kids, I think 2 should count as 1 lol.  Much below budget!  We're thinking of asking if they can throw in a few dozen hot wings too.  That would be the perfect meal for him and I, considering our first date ended up with dinner at McDonald's!!  

Viv has had softball practice twice this week.  Tuesday I didn't get to be there, darn work.  Thursday I called off and took her, only for it to be rained out after twenty minutes.  But she is doing really good at pitching.  She's getting much better at batting.  Got two balls stuck in the fence!!  Very proud mama here.  She's just gotta work on her catching yet.
We got the sneak peek of their lovely Easter photos from Jessica Snider Photography last night.  Absolutely beautiful!!!  

So in love <3

Fat Girl Going Skinny

My goal for this wedding is to look pretty.  This is going to be painful!  Lol.
I've stopped drinking soda.  Mountain Dew was my addiction, my only addiction in life.  This has been day #2 of only drinking water (and a little milk with breakfast).  Been putting Mio Energy into my water to give it some extra flavor...so far it's working, haven't had any unbearable cravings.  Had a little crash earlier today...well, more like I laid my head on Jeff's lap after dinner and woke up two hours later.
I ordered TruWeight & Energy, an appetite suppressor and energy supplement.  A friend of mine has had great success with it, without incorporating any special dieting or exercise.  With my goal plan, I may be at my goal weight of 130 by October!  *Fingers crossed*
Joined Planet Fitness, actually went there for the first time today.  30 minutes doing HIIT on the elliptical machine, then 15 minutes of aerobic-setting on the exercise bike, then another 30 minutes split between the rowing machine, shoulder press and lat pulldown to work on my arms (using 45 lb weights).  Then finally 50 reps on the ab machine using 45 lb weights.
Ready to throw up?  Lol.  I had to cut my face out of these because I am THAT ashamed.  You'll see my tats though, that's your proof it's me ;)
I'm starting my journey at close to my highest weight (equal to where I was when I was about 7-8 months pregnant with baby #3).  I am 166 lbs as of yesterday when I weighed myself (haven't gotten a measuring tape to do measurements yet).  These are my before pictures...hopefully there will be nice progress down the road!

I still look pregnant, and after I eat it's worse.  Which is depressing.  You can see my muffin top in my wedding dress and I can't keep my eyes off of it.
I'm going to be trying the It Works! wrap in a few weeks; by hosting a party I am earning a free one.  I'm also going to be signing up for BeachBody, looking at the TurboFire program.  I've ordered samples of the Shakeology shakes to try as well; if I like them, I may continue taking them.

For now, I'm just trying healthier eating, actually attempting to eat three meals a day (I usually only have 1-2).  Breakfast today was a fried egg with a sprinkle of cheddar cheese.  Lunch was the most amazing salad I've ever had, a Turkey Club from Saladworks (post gym meal).  Dinner consisted of Cheeseburger Macaroni, Salad, and Lemon Pepper Broccoli.  Although I did have a Little Debbie brownie for dessert.  I'm out of peanut butter and couldn't figure out anything else small to curb the sweet craving.
Soooo, in other news.  Wedding stuffs!
Jeff's band came in the mail.  Fits perfectly, amazing condition.  He loves it, so I'm quite happy.  Sitting in the jewelry box on our bookshelf in the bedroom until the big day.
My best friend found her dress!  So all the ladies in the wedding's apparel is purchased!

Tomorrow is going to be a crazy hectic day.  The girls are getting their Easter pictures done at 1:00.  Our photographer, Jessica Snider, is amazing.  She did our Christmas family portraits.  Word is, Easter photos will have fresh flowers and live bunnies!

Almost immediately after pictures, we have a softball skill drill.  Viv's first time playing, so we'll see how she is and how she likes it.  Fortunately, a friend of hers from school is on her team so she'll feel comfortable with her!  There are 4 teams in her age division for Dillsburg...she is #1 on Team 3.  There's yet another lucky number 13 for me!

Afterward, of course, Mommy has to make dinner and go to work, while Daddy takes the girls to a birthday party!  Another little friend from school, Mario, is having his party at the Coliseum, and Schylar was also invited to receive a card for the arcade and to bowl.  She is uber excited to be included with the big kids.
Then this week we go into full swing for softball, practice twice a week.  April 11th is officially the first day of softball, they'll have their parade through town.  So proud of my baby for jumping in and trying something new!  I'm sure she'll have a blast.  

Dun Dun Da Dun

I made a lemon shaker pie to celebrate Pie Day.  The outside ring of crust burnt.  It was in for less time than the recipe called.  WTF?  Really -_-
Anyway, the true reason of why I'm here is to announce:  I'M GETTING MARRIED!
It wasn't a romantic proposal.  I guess I'm 0/3 with that.  But we'd been talking about, and I said that within the next year I either wanted to get married or start trying for a baby.  He took his time deciding, but eventually said let's get married.  Poured me a glass of wine, himself a shot of Jack, we said "Cheers" and made it official.
So far plans are going good.  We chose October 31, 2015 (Halloween wedding, of course!) as the official date.  Doing a fall-themed wedding with a masquerade Halloween reception.  We've gotten the guest list finalized.  I actually found both my wedding dress (red) and the girls dresses (Viv's is a coral/orange and Schy's is yellow).  Ordered his wedding ring.  Printed our save the date cards.  Picked our venue and photographer.  And so far, spent under $200!

Made the Save the Dates myself with use of the trial of Paint Shop Pro X7 they have on their website.  My best friend had some cardstock leftover from her wedding invitations and she was able to print them for me, costing me $0.
The girls dresses are actually Easter dresses from Boscov's, but they were the perfect colors for my theme.  They were on sale 40% off so I couldn't say no!
My dress I found at a locally owned dress shop, Pretty Woman.  After going to nine bridal and gown shops, I was ready to give up for the day.  Alicia and I decided to stop at the Colonial Park Mall since it was near where she lived and sure enough, we saw a red formal gown hanging in the window.  I liked it, but as I made my way to the back of the store, fell in love with THE dress.  Of course I won't post photos of that in case my fiancee stumbles across my blog.  It's simple, but elegant.  It's form-fitting but flowy.  And it was only $130!
I'm considering joining Planet Fitness to try to get in better shape (and tanning is a bonus of course)!  Alicia has been going and LOVES her gym.  My problem is having enough free time to go to the gym.  I could go while Viv is in school and just drop Schylar off at Pappy's for a few hours.
The girls have spent two weekends in a row having sleepovers with their pappy.  They absolutely love it, and I know he enjoys the company.  Since my mom passed away, he's pretty much all alone at the house.  Having their chaos for a few hours is a nice change.
Hoping since it's starting to warm up, that we'll be able to venture up to the Hotel we're having our ceremony and reception at so I can take pictures and start planning decorations.  I've been loving Pinterest for the ideas there!
Our honeymoon...that was a surprise.  Wasn't planning on taking one at all honestly.  We recently signed up with Ambit Energy to save money on our electric by having them be our direct supplier.  As a user, we earn travel rewards for every kWh of electric we use.  As a bonus, when you sign up they provide an expense paid accommodation of 3 days/2 nights at one of a select list of locations.  If our budget stays on track, we'll be spending a bit more to get passport cards and heading to Niagara Falls

If our budgeting isn't quite as wonderful, then we'll stick to somewhere a bit closer to home, the Poconos!

Considering I hadn't initially imagined we would have the extra $$$ to get away, either would be amazing.  I haven't been to Canada since I was 4 years old though, and somehow didn't realize it was only 5.5 hours away, so that is my top pick!
It's a wonderful thing that he is getting involved in planning though.  I had initially thought of having a Halloween themed reception.  My best friend suggested masquerade masks instead so people wouldn't need to worry with whole costumes.  When I suggested that to him, he was ecstatic.  Apparently he's always wanted to have a masquerade party, but never had the reason.  Now we do ;)

He also started talking about wedding bands, and what he wanted.  We're both nerds, let's face it.  He liked the idea of having a ring like in The Lord of the Rings.  Something with the engraving:  Ash nazg thrakatulûk agh burzum-ishi krimpatul.  After reading the translation, I was sold...it means: One ring to rule them all, one ring to find them, one ring to bring them all and in the darkness bind them.  Thought it was rather cute the find and bind for a wedding band.  Anyways, found this little beauty:

On Ebay, of all places, on sale for $14 plus free shipping!  Normally a $50-$60 ring.  And it's tungsten, so it's good quality, not cheap.  It's ordered and should be delivered this week.  So I guess we're off to a pretty good start!
The hotel is not charging us for use of the venue, just the food.  He knows the owner, his first job was actually working for her at the hotel.  She's working up a couple menu options for us that won't break the budget but are the kind of foods we like.  I'm not against having burgers and hot wings at my wedding reception...yes, I'm that girl lol.

Well, I guess as of now this blog is taking a turn towards being a wedding-on-a-budget blog!  Our goal is under $2500 and we're well on track now with the major items being well under what was budgeted for!