Bay Area Babble

New blog!

2011-01-25T13:38:00.001-08:00

So I have a new blog for those who are interested in checking it out.. wont be posting on this one as much anymore.

http://samswlsjourney.blogspot.com/

Intr

2010-03-07T17:17:00.001-08:00

SOX!!!!

These are from my phone.. so forgive the crapiness lol. So Matt & I adopted a puppy :) We've been talking about a puppy for what seems like forever.. but just couldnt agree on one. So Saturday the Pet Express place was having adoptions at the store so we decided to go in and take a look. The part that I hate.. is I SUCK at just looking. I cannot tell you how many times I've gone to a shelter, pound, or adoption place and wanted to take them all home. I should really own a farm... is about how many cats and dogs I would've taken home by now. lol

Anyway, so we go to Pet Food Express and there are a few puppies there.. that of course I fell in love with, but Matt didn't really fall for any of them. So we decided to go to lunch adn try something new. So we went downtown and parked and walked around to find a healthy lunch to grab. We walk by this pet place (that I've driven by and kind of laughed at before, because this is the type of shop that I was positive was super expensive.. and had clothes for there pets. Now I was the type of person who was NOT getting a "rat" dog adn NOT having my puppy wear clothes. *Notice pic above, obviously did not work out this way lol*) and outside of that shop they too were having an adoption fair with a few cats and quite a few dogs. There were three or four larger dogs and two smaller ones. Matt instantly fell in love with the dog named "Baby", he was a Rottweiler and Shepard mix and she was absolutely gorgeous! But she was pretty big!!! adn We live in an apartment and work during the day... we decided against her (even though Matt didnt want to part ways) because it would not be fair for a dog with that much energy and that big to be cooped up 8 hours a day in an apartment.

Then, I fell in love with Mr. Sox (see above). He is a chihuahua and terrier mix. He is a little guy who has def had a tough life. Him and his entire litter (all 8 of them) were locked in one kennel adn found wihtout food or water. When Sox was rescued, he was filled with ticks and was little. When I was told about that story, I had to have him and take care of him. He is super shy and timid right now, but his foster mom said he warms up well.. so right now his tail was between his legs but I cannot wait to see it wag and be excited to see me :)

So I'm done bragging about him but we are absolutely in love with him. We have already spoiled him with toys, and yes, outfits. lol matt is totally in love with him too. And honestly, its super cute to see matt all excited about him.... brings me hope for the future with kids lol.

So my weightloss is still going steady, I do apologize for never be on here.. but life is crazy busy!!! I will post soon on my weightlostt venture and biggest loser faith edition.

Love ya all!! Cant wait to read all your posts about how you guys are keeping up with it.

Post Thanksgiving!

2009-11-30T10:02:00.000-08:00

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!!

I hope everyone had a fabulous, wonderful, excellent Thanksgiving day!! I sure did. It was a long but short weekend all at the same time, probably because I worked Wednesday and then half days on Friday and Saturday, so it completely threw me off. For Thanksgiving though, we finally had it at my aunts house, which is a blessing because they have the most people.. my family only has 4, so it makes sense. But every year is a big deal because we have like 50 people in my immediate family!! But it was great. The family was altogether, which is the best part of the day. :) After my families' thanksgiving, we went to Matt's dad's house for dessert.. but when we got there, they were carving the turkey. So I was all confused and not at all hungry, but I was polite anyway. lol. Then woke up again on Friday for work :) YES!!

By the way, right now I'm watching "Chelsea Lately" and she is freakin hilarious!!!

Also, I ummm am a little behind on the wedding posts recaps. I haven't ordered my pictures yet because we've been a little tight on money. But I am going to order the negative disk and make Christmas presents :) WHoop Whoop. Speaking of which I am absolutely thrilled for CHRISTMAS!!!!!!!!!!!!!! WOO HOO

Ok, I must get ready for work.. I hope you all recover from the holiday nicely :) <3

Happy THURSDAY!

2009-11-05T10:35:00.001-08:00

The weeks is almost over... YAY! I usually enjoy my weekends, but now I am starting to work every Saturday morning at the Urgent Care clinic we have at work.. so it should be interesting waking up super early on a Saturday... not so much fun.

We also still do the Cal games on Saturdays, so this should be interesting how they both work out. Thankfully the Oregon game isn't until like 4, I think. We've added a new member to our Saturday crew, usually it is just me, matt, and my father in law. But now we added my best guy friend Marcel. Him and the Hubby are completely the same person lol. Marcel calls Matt his "White version of himself" it is quite funny! I love seeing them get along so it is all good!

This weekend (starting tonight) Matt's longtime buddy from Alaska is coming down to stay with us. He is coming down to see the R Kelly concert, yes I said it, this man flew 3,000 miles to see R Kelly. lol oh, and us. He is quite a character. Unfortuantely, my house is still cluttered and kinda messy... and the hubby failed to do any cleaning this week. So he will hear from me after the friend leaves but I have to clean when I get off work tonight @ 8. Which I am not looking forwaRd to. lol. I do not like my house being out of order. I want people to be able to come over whenever they want and me not having to worry about like "Oh my goodness? Is it clean?" No, it should just always be that way. And don't get me wrong... I don't mean spotless but I do mean presentable.I enjoy inviting friends and family over and I want to be able to cook for them and spend time with them at my house... but I need a clean one in order to do so :) lol

Alrighty... that's my ramble for the day. I need to head to work before I'm late!!!

<3

Happy Halloween!!!

2009-10-31T14:28:00.001-07:00

So I just completed this weeks homework assignment and finished working from this morning (yes, both on a Saturday!) And totally realized it was Halloween! I have never celebrated or been a big fan, mainly because I don't do Halloween for religious purposes... but also because I am a chicken butt.

So every year at church we do a Harvest Party with tons of games, candy, food, etc and its all free. So this year is no different except, this year I didn't head it up. I was so busy with life that I told my dad (the pastor) I can't do it this year. Which was a bummer because I love putting it together adn love all the support and volunteers we get (Which is no different this year) So thankfully, my cousins Heather and Tiffany headed it up and I'm excited to see what they have done! I am sure its going to be great!!!

So my dilemna is.. I have no costume! I know, what a bore I am right!?! Well I obviously don't do sexy costumes, and having nothing at home to throw on real quick, and despite their being a "Spirit" store down the street, I have never bought anything from there and still won't. So guess what I'm going to be for Halloween? Sam!! Lol. I'm just going to be me... but I wanted to stop in adn say hello to everyone. I hope you guys have had a great week.

Be safe tonight!!!!!! And go hit up your local church's Harvest Party... They are tons of fun :)

<3

TaDA!!

2009-10-25T21:13:00.000-07:00

I'm here... and this time hopefully to stay!! I'm so sorry about not posting and not commenting on other peoples posts! I sucked for the past few months. :) Congrats to HER for getting married!!!! I'm very excited for you both!

So I don't even know where to start with all of this :)

Married life is good, well great. It was a lot, LOT, of change in the beginning with the new job, semester starting, and being married. Lol. But that has passed for the most part and I am loving being a wife. I love calling him my husband, love waking up next to me, and love when we kiss goodnight. It's honestly an amazing feeling when you find that special someone and are prepared to spend the rest of your life with that person. So, what can I say? I'm a happy newlywed!!! :)

I got a new job about fifteen minutes from my house (on a good traffic day) and I absolutely love it. I'm a Medical Assistant in a Pediatric office and it's great. The atmosphere is great, the people are fun and great, and I love the patients. I love meeting new people, helping people, and seeing the kids get healthy! I am def a people person and the medical field is where I belong, it's where my heart is!!

With that said, I cannot wait until school and pre-reqs are over!!!! I want to be done with school and into the nursing program already. School this semester is going okay though. It's not exactly first on my list but I am getting it done and I know that doesn't sound the best but this semester I'm taking History and psychology of personality... so it's not absolutely pertaining to nursing :) lol. So we will see how the semester ends..

Youth group, in case you didn't know.. I'm the youth group leader at my church, and I love it! It is a great feeling to help lead young people to the Lord. We have currently renovating the middle building to make it the new youth room. It should be a great project for us all to do!!! I love it!!! I wish I could have a clone who could do youth group completely full time :) lol.

Ok, I'm done blabbing for now. Let me knwo what you ladies adn gents think. I miss y'all :)

Sorry so long!!!

And Lastly, really?!?! Yankees in the world series again. UGH!!!!

Teaser....

2009-09-05T15:24:00.000-07:00

So I received some pics off of friends and families' cameras from the wedding. I will start posting more pics when I get the professional ones back..which I cannot wait for!!!

A mini update is:

I am officially Mrs. Semans :) (Except we haven't turned in the marriage cert. yet lol) I absolutely love being together, living with him (finally! Because we didn't do it before marriage) and all the fun things that come along with it.

I cannot believe the weddding has come and gone already! Honestly, sometimes it makes me sad to think its over already, after all that planning. lol. Thank God, I wasn't a stressed bride and rarely stresssed through the process or I'd be totally bummed! My dress is just handing in the closet because I havent had time to do anything with it! lol

So advice for upcoming brides: Unless a something major happens: the day will go perfect, it will be like your fairytale. Don't stress on the small stuff before the wedding.. and dont stress on ANYTHING the day of the wedding. Just enjoy all of it because that will be the fastest but best day of your life!!! And the most important part is your marrying your best friend; not so and so is coming or not coming, someone did this, etc. It doesn't matter. Trust me :)

After the wedding we went on our mini-moon for a few days in Reno/Tahoe area and then a few days of pampering. I will get into that more when I post those pictures!!! But it was a blast and a much needed vacation!

Now real life has completely set in. I got a great new job... as a medical assistant in a pediatric office, and so far I love it. This was my first week of working full time again in 3 months, so it's great. (Gonna be better when I get my pay check :) lol. It is really tough on the feet right now because I'm standing for 8 hours a day, but that will totally get better next week!

Along with job, trying to move my stuff in ( because its still at my parents house), and cleaning up the apt from all the presents we received, oh yea and adjusting to living with my new husband (who isnt the cleanest thing in the world :) lol, I started school on the week of my wedding too!!! So this past week I've been trying to play catch up to the two weeks I missed and it has been tough! I study at lunch, when I get home, and now on the weekends! Once I catch up to the work, I'm hoping to get in a routine of things so I can actually spend time with my husband :) lol

Okay, So I uploaded these onto my Picasa thing... so check out the pics from the wedding! Hopefully the pro ones will be here soon!
I can't wait to catch up on all your guys' blogs! My reader is FULL!
<3

Wedding Pictures - Tackett

WEDDING PICS

TEASIN U

2009-08-25T15:47:00.001-07:00

So I am officially Mrs. Samantha Elaine Semans :)
We're on our "mini-moon" in Tahoe/Reno area..... so I will post more later but thought I'd tease you guys about the Perfect, Most Wonderful day of our life :)
<3

Fire Me!

2009-08-18T16:33:00.001-07:00

I'm sorry guys!! You can TOTALLY FIRE ME! I have not been a good blogger in forever, but for a very good reason... My wedding is on Friday, THIS Friday!! That's three days away! Crazy right? I am not at all stressed or worried, just excited. I stayed up til 3 am last night because I could not sleep.. too excited. If this keeps up, I will totally take some benadryl to knock my butt out :)

So on the job front.. I GOT A JOB! As if we didn't know this already, but God is great. He is amazing. Always providing and always there for me! I am so blessed. I applied for this staff agency and the staff agency directed me to this Pediatric doctor's office in Pleasanton. I did five interviews with them over the course of three days. Then I had to suffer the weekend without knowing whether or not I had the job... actually, I really didn't suffer at all, because that happened to be my bachelorette weekend which was a blast! So I didn't think about the job until Monday. Then Monday morning rolls around and they hired me as a Medical Assistant at $15/hr to start and I get raised to $17 after I am hired as a full time employee. So like I said, God is great. He provided for us and I can just focus on the wedding now, and not worry about how we will survive after the wedding. It is all taken care of :)

So I will have to fill you in on the girl's weekend, life, wedding, rehearsal dinner tomorrow night,etc. But I gotta run to go do place cards with some friends!!!
Stay in there.. I will be a great blogger again soon :)

Take 2!

2009-07-20T19:48:00.001-07:00

So here is part two of the picture crazy posts.. sorry if they bug you, but I like them. They're simple and sweet!

Youth Car Wash
This past weekend we held a youth carwash for my youth group. It turned out great, was lots of fun, and made great profit!

Ok, tilt your head for this one.. sorry.

Some of the boys.. standing around

..or sitting around

Kayla & I

Kameko & Matt

Monterey
This past weekend we went to Monterey for Matt's brother and sis-in-law's birthday. Not only did we have a blast down there but it really made for a great weekend! The weather was awesome and totally beat out the 100+ degree weather from home. I did miss camping to go, but we had the best weekend we've had in a loong time. So it was well worth it!

We were having wayy too much fun @ the beach. He was begging not to leave.

I was pointing to seals that were jumping around in the ocean.. I tried to get pics of it but they were too far out.

I really really like this picture. Dunno why!

I LOVE the beach. and him.

I was trying to make my footprints stick before the wave took them away :( lol

Enough Said.

So it was windy in Monterey, obviously, yet we needed to blow out the candles. I was in charge of holding the cake, when Matt's brother Tip grabs the blow torch to light the candles. Hilarious!

Aura!
A few Saturdays ago, some of Matt's friends & mine got together to try a new club. It was a blast.. Want proof? Check out these pics! lol

Chillin in the backseat after the club!

Me trying to sneakly crawl back to the backseat to sit with the girls.

Cheese. (Look @ horrible tanline!)

Rosa & Tanya

Matt getting his groove thing on, Me people watching, and Trav's girl cheesing super hard!

Travis.. and me. lol

Matt & his best friend Travis

The girls!

I love oldies.

Trav & his girls!

My & My Man

Me & Rosa

The girls before the club!

Weddings..

I love weddings.. this one I forgot my camera @ though... so we improvised and took some pics outside. Congrats AJ & Kelly!

Matt & I @ Aj's wedding

Alanna & I @ Aj's Wedding

Amanda & I
4th Of July!
I love this holiday, love love!

We bought sparklers for my wedding.. instead of throwing rice or anything else.. We're going to have all the guests hold sparklers as we walk through.. it's going to be gorgeous!

So we decided to test them out on the 4th of July

Alanna's yummy & patriotic cake!

Random..

2009-07-20T18:25:00.000-07:00

So late last night, since I couldn't sleep, I decided to email all my pics from my phone to my email. Too many times have I broke the phone and lost all of the pictures inside of it. So now, lesson learned, I back up my stuff... and I would def recommend you ladies do it as well!! Since I did that.. you get the pleasure of seeing what has been in my phone for the past month or so.. and get to see more pictures than words.

So be prepared! Lots of pics!! I'll post more later!

<3
Oh, and I put them small.... if you wanna see them big, simply click on them!

*This is Tanya, Rosa, and myself before we went to Crogan's to all go hang out. I don't drink often, which defeatrs the purpose of the bar, but we loove to dance.*

*Introducing... ROCKY! I don't think I've showed you pictures of her before.. but this is my baby. This is Rocky. I've had her for about two years and absolutely love her chubby butt!*

*Matt and I had a date night, what feels like forever ago, and he decided to order some chocolate dessert.He's a sucker for sweets... so he was excited!*

*This was a gorgeous view from my backyard. Pretty right?*

*This pic is actually old but it's of me and one of my best friends' Michelle. We had gone out for her birthday!*

*Random pic.. I was just seeing how it'd look. I love taking pictures!*

*First, don't panic, it was empty before we posed this picture. Lol This is my niece and us being funny :)*

*This is my Maid of Honor's belly and my nephew Gabriel kissing it. I love this picture. One of my best friends' Tanya did one very similar to this!*

*At our family poker night: My uncle Al trying to be incognito with his daughter Tracy (MOH)*

*This is pregnant Tracy at the Hospital this past weekend. We though she had appendicitis so we waited until 5 a.m. with her until she got the clear. Everything is fine so far! Praise God! And I should get my nephew in 2 weeks!!!*

*So this is me @ 5a.m. waiting for Tracy (MOH)'s baby to come out :)*

*We were walking in downtown Monterey and they were having some sort of car show that weekend. This is the cutest pink car I've ever seen! Makes me want to be a "Pink Lady" from the movie Grease!*

* Man, I love this man. I cannot wait to be Mrs. Semans. This is him on the beach in Monterey, afraid to get too close because he didn't wanna get his tennis shoes soaked!*

*This is Matt's brother Tip and niece (soon to be my niece :) Taking a cat nap after the party!*

Well that's all folks! Until I unload my camera :)

And...

2009-07-16T15:50:00.001-07:00

Did I mention that there are 36 days until our wedding :) Crazy, right?

Matt and I are going to Monterey this weekend for is brother and sister-in-laws birthday party. I love Monterey. I always have. I LOVE the ocean..it's serene, and peaceful, magical, and just a miracle. It reminds me how great God is and how much he does in my life. So I cannot wait for that.
Matt's sister-in-law, Deb, and I get along great! Thank God because I've always wanted a sister.. and now I have one! And soon I'll have nieces!!! Hollar!!!! :) I can't wait!

Update Time!

2009-07-16T15:28:00.000-07:00

Job: I'm still jobless and it is oober frustrating. I am hoping to hear back from 2 prospective employers.. One being Starbucks Manager at a Safeway. Which I know I will hear back from them, because my cousin is the one hiring me... it's just a matter of when! It is driving me crazy! The second one is Sutter Delta. A lady from my church, Connie, got a job from Sutter and gave me her contacts name and number. I sent them an email with my resume. And have not heard from them.

This is probably one of the most frustrating things I have ever gone through.. aside from dieting.. lol. It's bad enough I am not working=no money=bills piling up. But it also means that I have way to much time on my hands. Being jobless sort of affects my ego and confidence because sometimes I feel like I'm not participating in my partnership with my fiance. But of course he completely disagrees with this statement, thankfully. The only positive side of being jobless.. is I'm am getting all of my wedding stuff done without stressing. AND I'm doing my youth lessons like a week before, for the most part. I have rarely stressed throughout this whole engagement!!! Thank God.

So with all of that said, don't misinterpret all of this as compaining.. even though some of it is :) It's just me venting! I have complete faith in our Lord Jesus Christ. I trust Him with all my heart and lean not on my own understanding :) As cliche as it sounds, everything happens for a reason and this is just another reason... a job is going to come along (hopefully soon) and it will be great!!!

So being jobless is my numero uno concern. The second concern is of course the wedding! We are almost done doing everything.. aside from a few things.. the rest to do is like figuring out exactly what is happening throughout the day and confirming that with vendors. I need to make a detailed list to make sure I'm not forgetting anything though. A few of the things I am missing is wedding bands... I know where/what/how much they are, but I'm just missing the money for them, that will come soon. I also need to ask the people involved in the ceremony to be in it. lol.

And I want to do a Do It Yourself Program. At first I wanted our programs to be like newspaper/magazine style to represent my passion for both. And then I was going to do fans. but I decided to just combine the two... so now we are doing fan programs. There are two options to doing these.

So there's these fans which take a little more work.. but I think they look more elegant. I found a website that does these great!

Then there are these ones. I think they are funner and simpler to make.

What do you guys think? Which ones do you like? Help a sister out :)

P.S.

2009-07-03T12:49:00.001-07:00

There's

49 days until My WEDDING!!!!!!!!!!!!

yes! I am so excited!!

Just thought I'd share :)

Recap!

2009-07-03T12:40:00.000-07:00

So I'm a little behind on the blogging front.. I don't know how I managed that one. So here is a short recap.

Wedding:
I ordered flowers the other day. My bouqet will be orchids with some lillies. It will look gorgeous, I am so excited. Honestly, I went in their with like a whatever attitude and the lady @ Brentwood Florist picked it out for me :)

So it'll look like the bouqet on the left with white some sort of flowers (i think lisanthus?) and hints of the lily in it :)

The guys boutenierre (sp?) will be a green orchid with a little white flower behind it.

The centerpieces we have three choices for.. I'm still undecided about. WHICH TWO YOU LIKE BEST?? Let me know :)

A) Hydrangea centerpiece- green bunches of hydrangea in a simple vase with candles around it

B) So a friend of mine bought these mirrors to place on the table and these things with scripture on them. i think I showed you guys in a previous post.. with candles. The florist added these: the green cymbidium orchids in like a little fish bowl kind of thing to add on the table. I hope that makes sense!!!

C) So this one is a little harder to explain. So picture a tall (not too tall though) cylinder vase. With a long stem of these dendrium (sp?) orchids

Okay so let me know what you think with those.. :) Thanks.

What else? I still don't have a job but I have a few hopefuls coming in.. one of which is Sutter. I am really, really hoping that I get a call from them soon. I also am expecting a call from safeway, so we will see. I have faith in the Lord that the right job is right around the corner! He's a great God.

Honeymoon is still put on hold until we figure out what my financial situation is and such. We may just do a small trip after the wedding and save for our ideal honeymoon. His mom may help us come up with a plan and help pay for it. It's a bummer cause i already have my passport, but I'm gonna try and not change my name until I use it at least once!!! lol. I still want to do my all inclusive trip so maybe we wil save for the fall and do it then?! Who knows. That's a sore subject with me... lol

The bridal shower and both bachelorette showers are well under way. My best friend Michelle is doing the like going out clubbing one while my MOH tracy is doing the low key but fun one. I'm excited for all of the above!! :)

What else is going on? hmm.. I can't think of anything else. Any questions?!?!?! lol

<3

Lions, Tigers, HAIR, oh my!!

2009-07-03T12:39:00.000-07:00

So I still don't have a hairstyle and/or make up artist. I could always do my own make up because I am good at it and love it. But I don't want to. lol Does anybody know any good and reasonably priced make up artist in the bay area??

So here are some choices on hairstyles.. My wedding is in the smack dab of August so it is going to be super hot. So I don't want my hair down anymore.. but I also don't want the super tight prom look. SO I've googled some hairstyles and such and here is what I've come with.. Tell me what you think?!

Side note: My veil is cathedral length..super long and gorgeous! It will have that thing that you put over my face. I will probably only wear it for my ceremony and not so much for the reception. I want to find a lily to put in my hair for the reception.

And I for sure want the puff and little bump thing that i always do.. so add that to all these pics. lol

A) I like the modern-ness of this hairstyle. I would have side bangs though..

B)This style is more elegant but i like it.. I dunno if I'd like it on me though..

C) This one is prom but not too prom. lol. I would add the puff though of course :)

D) This one is pretty I like it. lol

E) I don't have curly hair.. so I dunno if it would work.

F) This is the only hairstyle I'd consider to wear half up and half down.

Let me know what you think :)

Summer!

2009-06-12T09:35:00.001-07:00

One of my favorite blog friends Kirby at the GoodGalsInc tagged me in this "5 Things You Love About Summer" tag! If you haven't visited Kirby's blog.. then I def recommend you go do so.. NOW! :) She's a great girl!

Here are my top 5 Things....

1) My wedding!

So obviously, I am not going to get married every summer, but this summer I cannot wait to get married! It is less than two months away and smack dab in the middle of summer.. which is a good thing and bad :) We are going to have a blast!

2) Snow Cones!

Ok, So I totally borrowed this from Kirby.. but great minds think alike. I love, love, love snow cones. There are an easy way to cool off and a fun treat for the kids (or just the kids at heart :) There is a snow cone shack in downtown that has totally random hours but I would drive the long way home from school just to see if they were open! lol.

3) Ice Cream!

So obviously there is a trend in calories here.. but ice cream is right up there with snow cones! Who doesn't enjoy a simply ice cream cone on a hot sunny day? Everyone, right!?! What is better is home made ice cream :) my friend Tanya and her mom, Marie used to make homemade vanilla ice cream for us every summer. It was delicious! Now Marie makes it for us everytime we go up there :)

4) Family & Friend BBQ!

So yes.. the calorie trend is still contiuing on my list. No wonder I need to loose some weight :) But really I love family & friend bbq's because I love spending time with them! My parents house has always been the bbq spot.. the kids swim, while the adults watch and talk. When we get our house after the wedding, I cannot wait to host bbq's and fun events :) It'll be a new summer tradition!

5) The Beach!

The beach is just the relaxing place to be. I love water and the ocean, so it only makes sense that the beach would be on my top 5! Even though I hate suiting up in a bathing suit (that'll all change soon!), I would gladly do it if I knew we were going to the beach! :) I love sitting and listening to the ocean, swimming with friends/family, or just having a picnic next to the ocean!

If I were to pick a #6, it would be 4th of july! I love fireworks. I love the 4th. I love camping, cause that's what we are usually doing that week. I love red, white, and blue :) What can I say? I'm a patriot!

The 6 Lovely ladies I tag are:

Mrs buckingham!
Mary
Jillian
August 15 bride
Candice
Heidi

Random-ness!

2009-06-08T17:59:00.001-07:00

So I've been taking pics on my phone lately.. cause my camera died and I can't find its charger.. but I have SOOO much to fill you guys in on!!! Remind me :) But for now.. Here's some random items from me to you :)

Oh, and when I get to 50 followers, I think I may do a random prize drawing, how does that sound?
<3

So this is part of our centerpieces, we have ten of these (and the ones below) total. Then on the other 10 or 11 tables, we are going to do flowers and the typical centerpieces, I think? Not too sure yet. But they are totally cute and have scriptures on them. This one is Joshua 24:15.

This is the second one. The scripture is Romans 15:13. I'm excited to get creative with these bad boys. They come on glass mirrors that reflects the light perfectly. How long do those little candles last though?? Any ideas to make them last longer?!

Yes, once again I am starting over on the diet thing. Mainly for my health, but I also want me dress to fit on me better, and for my arms to look great in them! This is a salad, water, strawberries, and NutriSystem pizza. The pizza was actually really good lol. So wish me luck on my new journey again!!! Starting in at my heaviest EVER!

So of course with the new diet, comes new groceries! This is only $50 for all this food :) Fantastic!! I got enough to last me this whole week without anything spoiling, and if worse comes to worse I will go back and pick something else up!

God is amazing. This picture is the sunset from outside my house, on my driveway. It is beautiful. It just reminds me of how amazing He really is. Even though we don't always understand His ways or why he does things the way He does, but I have complete Faith in His ways. Also, a bonus is we baptized 17 people yesterday at our annual church picnic!! YES 17 PEOPLE! He is SO GREAT! This month is going to be a hard month, with Tanya & Erik's anniversary vastly approaching (speaking of which, what're we going to do for it? Hmm. I'll have to ask the rents) and things getting crazy with everything, But I Trust Him completely, which isn't an easy thing to do! :) He's also gonna help me get through this diet crapola too :)

My cousin Tracy! She was in the hospital.. and supposed to be in until she delivered. But now they are going to moniter her at home because her blood sugar level has been okay. I don't think I mentioned this previously, but she has Gestational Diabetes, and has had it for a month or two. So we're all praying for her to last full term with this baby! With her history (preclampsia, high BP, gestational diabetes, etc) she needs all the prayers she can get :)

I LOVE LOVE LOVE These flowers. They are simply gorgeous. If I could afford them, they would be my main flower in the wedding. But since I can't they will be in my bouqet and I'm trying to find a fake but good looking flower to go in my hair exactly like this one. Any ideas???

Alright that's all for now folks. I'll check back soon!

Tweet-Tweet!

2009-06-05T17:52:00.000-07:00

Does anyone on here Twitter? So two of my best friends, Rosa and Tanya do it, and my man Matt does it... and they all enjoy it. So I'm just checking to see if any of you fine people do it.
If so, (what's the term?) 'Follow Me?" lol.

http://twitter.com/samiam4eva06

What is the point of it? I don't get it yet. Ive just stuck with the old fashioned myspace and facebook accounts. So we'll see how this works..

Any famous celebs your following?

Let me know :) I want in the loop :)

<3

Another Statistic..

2009-06-02T16:04:00.001-07:00

I lost my job. Fired. The End! Lol. It's only funny because I hated my boss.. not her as a person but the things I went through with her. It was unbearable. I'll give you the full scoop later, but we'll just say I'm Lawyering up!! But in all of this I can def say I LOVE my supporting family. They were pissed and I had my cousins calling me, friends, family lol. They all wanted to help me :) I'm special :) Lol Plus, I know an amazing Heavenly Father who loves me and I trust that it is all in His hands! :) <3>

Reception!

2009-05-28T14:58:00.000-07:00

Ok, So last week sometime, my mother, friend Terry, and myself went to our reception venue. We actually went because I thought we had a planning meeting, but turned out we didn't :) So we went to ask a few questions and go over some details with Carrie.. the wedding planner.

I was able to snap some pics of the venue. So I'm going to show you pics of the place how it looks plain and then ideas from other weddings on what we're hoping for. I NEED ideas.. so feel free to chirp in :)

**This is what is: This is the ceremony site with the gazebo and no chairs (obviously lol). I love this site. It's gorgeous, green, and lots of lush trees. Hopefully it'll stay that way for a few months.

**This is what I want: There will be about 200+ chairs sharing both sides of the aisle. I want the aisle to be covered in flower petals lining the aisle. They petals have to be real.. so I'm not sure how expensive or inexpensive that will be.

I also want the chairs nearest to the aisle to be draped in tulle with every other row having a flower or some sort of color. Sort of like this but outside..

What can we use aside from flowers to make it cheaper?
Do you think I'll need an Aisle runner? Or just leave as is?
How do we decorate the gazebo for cheap?!? and cute ;)

** This is what it is: As soon as you come in from the ceremony site, you are greeted with this gorgeous massive bar. Which would be great EXCEPT there will be no alcohol served at the actual reception site. My dad is a pastor and we have too many church people and higher ministers coming to attempt to sell alcohol.. not to mention the mr and i can do without!

**This is what I want: So I spoke to Carrie about the bar/alcohol thing. She said that it's fine.. we can cover it. So I am going to buy some tulle to cover everything aside from the mirror. She will have all the alcohol bottles taken down from the bar, and we'll cover the back of the bar wtih the tulle. I'm really trying not to be mean adn showcase all these bottles.. and then not allow anyone to touch! lol. On the actual bar, I was thinking of putting pictures of the mr and I with some candles.
Any ideas on that?

**This is what it is: Directly facing the bar are these tables with barstools.

**This is what I want: I don't really know what to do with these exactly. I was just thinking putting pictures up of mr and i with candles and/or flowers. Also, mayve a possible site for our guestbook?? Ideas? Maybe put the place cards there?
The reason I say possible site for guestbook is because there is a hallway to enter the reception area.. which looks like this:

I can always take the tables out. But I was thinking that round table may be a good place for a guestbook as well. These rectangle tables on the side will be used for buffet IF we do a buffet, if not then they will be where place cards are put or removed.

**This is what it is: The reception area! Sorry it is a dark picture but basicall it is a large room with a dance floor in middle of it and round tables on outside. We are doing a "sweetheart" table as our head table that will go right behind dance floor. We chose to do sweetheart vs bridal table because we want our bridal party to join the rest of their family..and we wont be sitting long anyway!

These sconce things are hanging on the wall and look GREAT with my decor. They match perfectly!

**This is what it is: This a simple set up of the tables. Note: we went on Memorial Day weekend, so of course these are not the colors of my wedding.. but what were already set up.

The green and damask, however, are our table runners. They will be on every table and alternating between the green on top or damask on top. It is going to look GORGEOUS! I'm excited! We are not to sure on what to do as centerpieces though.. any ideas? My mom really likes the fresia flower bunches because they are so full. I'm not sure what we will do yet.. ill post on that later, all I know is some kind of flower, arranged some kind of way, in some kind of container, with candles!!! And I have about 21-22 tables and I want like to designs on each one. So I need a few centerpiece ideas :)

**This is what it is: Our cake :) One of our great family friends has offered to bake my wedding cake and I def took her up on it. Seriously, she's better than Rachel Ray more like a Paula Deen. I love her cooking and her cake will be amazing.

**This is what we want: Bling, Bling! lol It'll look similar to this with green ribbon, square, and no broaches. Also, we upgraded to the lighting package which will include a Gobo on the dance floor with out monogram, 8 uplights along the wall, and a spotlight on the cake :) So it'll def shine! So it'll look very similar to the pic.. except our colors and monogram lol.

**This is what it is: A Candy buffet :) we aren't going to do it in our color scheme.. we're just going to have our colors on the table. Also, we will buy stickers with our monogram on them to place on the bags or chinese boxes. We don't like green or black candy :) lol.

That's all for now folks! Ideas greatly appreciated :)

The Kids

2009-05-28T13:22:00.000-07:00

*Warning LOTS of Pics :) *
To see original post of the story behind these lovely kids.. look here!

We really had a lot of fun that day. The Kaida's came up with us. I miss them so much, so it is really a treat to see them. They are all getting so big and they're parents would have been SO proud. I love my babies!

We're in a blog!

2009-05-21T18:07:00.000-07:00

Check it out here!

:)

It's our engagement session from the past weekend!
<3

Introducing..

2009-05-18T21:58:00.000-07:00

My Bridal Party These are the lovely ladies that will standing by my side on our big day!! (Which I am starting to get SOO excited for :) *Bridesmaids are in no particular order*

Tracy!
My Maid of Honor/Cousin/Best friend (Yes, she's pregnant. and due right before my wedding.. at the end of July :) *This was my first choice of BM dresses.*

Tiffany
My Bridesmaid/Cousin/Amazing Friend *This is the dress they will be wearing with a black sash*

Katie
My Bridesmaid/Cousin/Great Friend **This is the dress they will be wearing with a black sash*

Kameko
My Bridesmaid/Sister from another Mister! *This is exactly what they will be wearing!*

Heather
Heather My Bridesmaid/Cousin/Amazing Friend *This is the dress she'll be wearing with a black sash and without the goofy face! lol*

Last but not least...

Ashley
My Cousin/Bridesmaid/Fantastic Friend *This is the dress but in the green color with black slash and without the model pose lol*

So those are my girls :) They are all family and have been there for me through thick and thin and they will be there long after Matt and I are married!

My best girl friends will play a huge part in the wedding as well.. even though they aren't standing up there next to me.. I still need them!!

Teaser

2009-05-18T17:56:00.001-07:00

Here is a teaser from my second engagement session :) I'm so excited to check out the rest :)

And here is a shirt I bought from Etsy.com from Mrs. Bling. It's super cute!
Ir reads: Mrs. Semans Est. 10.21.07
<3

Double Digits!

2009-05-16T16:52:00.000-07:00

At leas I don't look like her >

SHUT UP! I receive tons of junk mail in my email right now because of all the things I'm subscribed to.. but I totally let it sit in there in case, by chance, I ever have a free minute to check them out. So the Knot.com has just sent my an email stating that I have 97 days left until my wedding... Ladies and Gents.. we have officially hit double digits.

That is CRAZY!

I have not done any wedding planning items these past few weeks because of all my family drama and my little brother. So I have to jump back on the bandwagon.. like now.

These are the things we've accomplished thus far:
* Save the Date cards were sent out
* Invitations were ordered and have arrived.. just not assembled yet.
* Ordered cameras to place on table and they arrive. (also, ordered a cute hat that says bride lol) * Venue/ food/ceremony spot is picked out and reserved
*I'm stretching for more.... uummmm... My nonni is adding wonderful things to my dress and it is finally coming along. I CANNOT wait to see it finished. It's seriously going to be stunning.
*We have a pastor reserved.. my daddy :)
* I'm asking Pastor Greg Terry tomorrow if he can assist so my dad can walk me down the asile. *Had two sets of engagement pics taken. Second one was yesterday and we'll see how those pics came out.. but I enjoyed the photographer A LOT!

And that's the list folks, lol.

I think I may have a girls lunch in the next few weekends to just get everyone who has offered to help and we'll sit down and do some DIY items... like damask the votives, pick out flowers (we;re ordering wholesale), set up invites, etc. That sounds like a plan!

Any other ideas?? Help! lol Also, we're still trying to find our honeymoon place and destination.. we know we want all inclusive, adn cheap! lol

Word!

2009-05-06T22:28:00.000-07:00

"I lift up my hands to your commands, which I love,

and I meditate on your decrees.
Remember your word to your servant,

for you have given me hope.
My comfort in my suffering is this:

Your promise preserves my life."

Psalm 119:48-50

Thanks Tammy for the inspiration.. I needed it!!! I love this song too.. and it speaks wonders for my life right now... and everyone's life for that matter. We do serve an amazing God! (not to mention, I love Jeremy Camp!)

"Holy Fire burn away

My desire for anything

That is not of You

And is of me

'Cause I want more of you

And less of me."

More.. Teasers..

2009-05-06T00:43:00.000-07:00

So this week is crazy.. lots of family drama.. so pray for my family and my younger brother! I have faith in the Lord that things will get better!! Until then, here's more from the e-pic session! <3

I should really follow directions..

2009-05-01T10:00:00.000-07:00

lol. So I officially suck at following directions! It's not like I'm a rebel or anything.. My attention just varies.

For example, here I am..bright and early, sitting in the college library on a Friday morning. Now before you get any ideas.. I am not THAT good of a student. I simply suck at following directions. I take a Friday morning English class that usually begins at nine am. Today, however, we were supposed to meet in the library at 9:30..or so I thought. WRONG!We were supposed to meet in the classroom at 9:30 to walk to the library at 10.

Mind you, I'm all for a good walk.. but by the time I made it back to the classroom, all the way across campus, they'd already be walking here. Then I went online (half of our class is done online) to check and see what she really said.. and sure enough, Sam does not follow complete directions. I saw meet/library/ 9:30. When it really said "We will meet in the class at nine thirty and then walk over to the library".

Ugh, I could seriously get myself in trouble.Another example lol is a few weekends ago I was driving my drunk friend home, I was sober thank you. And we were downtown and I had missed my turn, so at the next turn I made a left hand turn. My friend freaks out because there was a cop who saw me.. I was like so what? I can turn. She was like no the sign said NO turns. I was like shut up?! really?!? I thought it said no u-turns lol. And so the cop followed us to the freeway, without pulling me over, thankfully.

The next day I go back to that turn to see if she was right or not.. sure enough the drunk girl, who had to get driven home, paid more attention to the sign that I did!!!!

I suck :)Just thought I'd let you guys know how blonde your friend Sam really is :)How's you week going? How's the diet(s) going?I will post on all that later..

I have to call my photographer for our second engagement session.. cause it is supposed to rain.. in CALIFORNIA, in MAY! Goodness, bad enough I had to deal with stupid Swine Flu this week, and now my session maybe canceled. Stupid CA.

E-Pics Up!

2009-04-28T23:10:00.000-07:00

SNEAK PEAK: Thanks to my fantabulous best friend, she helped me to sneak these from the photographers website for now.. more to come :)

Damask...

2009-04-20T21:00:00.001-07:00

Damask!!!!

I've never heard of it before.. well like I've seen it, but didn't know it had a specific name?! and I saw this picture.. and fell in love with it! So we have now changed out colors to green, black, and ivory (we took out the brown). And we are putting elegant, subtle hints of this bad boy in our reception!

What do you guys think? Any ideas to incorporate it??
<3

E-Pics!

2009-04-20T17:37:00.001-07:00

They were sooo much fun! This was only our first set, and it was hot as hades (90 degrees), but it was a blast!!! We started off at this warehouse building downtown.. it was sort of a rustic feel. I loved it. I love photography, so I'm totally into everything creative. Like we did our traditional poses, but I liked to spice it up a bit! Then, we went downtown some more.. down by the delta water. It was of course gorgeous, who doesn't love water? We did some poses with the water in the background, on the rocks, etc. While we were by the water, we also went to this grassy area.. it was pretty wierd, but I think the pictures turned out pretty cool. And then my favorite spot was the railroad track!!!! It was fun! Scary.. cause it's a working track.. but Thank God a train didn't come by while we were there.. just before and after! But some of the poses were perfect. The were romantic, sexy, fun, all at the same time!! I am so excited to get them back. Of course, I'll post it when they're back! Oh, and did I mention, the sunset was setting for half of it.. Gorgeous! So excited!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Now on to the next shoot :)

**This isn't us.. yet! but similar to what we did!**

E-Shoots!

2009-04-17T17:18:00.000-07:00

So my first set of engagement photos are going to be taken on Sunday!!! I am so excited! My photographer that we're meeting with is a little pricey, but it will be fun. We won this free shoot at a bridal fair we went to last month! There will be more shoots to come! But this is our first really fun wedding thing we've done, so we're excited!

We're going to stay in my hometown for this one. One of the shoots are going to be by an old building, to get some creative, young shots. The second will be downtown by the water and railroad tracks! I'm excited to see what kind of creative ideas she comes up with. I love photography and love like a photo-journalistic style of photography.. so I'm juiced!

Before Sunday I have to dye my hair, pick out 2 outifits and shoes, and be ready! Not to mention I work everyday until then.. so this should be interesting!! lol. What do you wear? I was thinking jeans with a black top and a white top.. I have to find a cute white top. I know that sounds boring.. but I don't know what else to do?! I may get my make up done professionally too :)
And I realized I haven't been leaving you any picture love.. so here are some cute shots I googled!

Crazy!

2009-04-15T22:08:00.001-07:00

There's four months until my wedding and I have
a venue (which was half the battle..) and food and invitations. and that's it!!
Mom picked out the cake, but we have yet to taste it and order it.
I have tons of photographer options.. but haven't settled on one yet!
We have our first engagement photo session this Sunday (Which I'm totally stoked for!! and speaking of which.. what should I wear?? What did you ladies wear for yours??)
My dress is purchased but not at all done.. My nonni is adding jewels and things to it!
The bridesmaid dresses are picked out and sized, but not ordered yet!!!
I'm still stressing like we're missing tons, and of course my mom doesn't help the situation much!! She's a little worry wort! lol
What am I missing?!? What should I do next?!! I'm really not freaking out about this..... but I just need some advice. We've never done a wedding (obviously) so we're a little new to this... and you all are pros :)

Thanks ladies!!
<3

This Sucks..

2009-04-08T10:28:00.001-07:00

So this is me venting just a little...

I'm mad at you because your not here to help me maintain this craziness in life. Your not here to call and make fun of American Idol contestants. Your not here to give me good marriage advice and style advice. Your not here to help with the wedding. Your not here to laugh at my mom with my for being so stressed! Your not here to go to Costco, Walmart, or Target. Your not here to be my mom and I's best friend.
Your not here to hide the Resurrection eggs this Sunday and to have a "photo shoot" in the park.
Your not here to watch your babies grow up (but don't worry, we took that baton too!) Your not here to laugh at Erik with. He's not here to give marriage counseling He's not here to beat Glover at last election!! He's not here to be my Dad's best friend again! He's not here to talk sports and guy stuff with Dad and Matt. He's not here to constantly talk about food at church. (but have no fear, dad took that baton) But mostly your not here because your sitting at the right hand of the Father, without us, and we miss you. Terribly. It's not fair.. but soon it'll get harder to deal with.
So I guess you guys won.. you beat us there!

Giveaway!!

2009-04-06T20:35:00.000-07:00

My great friend Kirby is giving away a fantabulous prize to get ready for summer! Be sure to check it out ASAP because the deadline to enter is fastly approaching!
<3

Invites!!

2009-04-06T20:26:00.000-07:00

Yay! Another thing to check off the list baby!! We did our invites on Friday... it took us 2.5 hours!! Yes, I said it, 2.5 hours!!! I'm totally ocd about those kinds of things because a) it is the first thing everyone will see about your wedding and b) I did yearbook/journalism for 4 years in high school... and I'd major in design if I wasn't doing Nursing! lol. Well needless to say..Matt had a completely different idea of what he wanted for the look. So we finally did compromise and I think they're great. (Not to mention, they're included in our wedding package.. even better!) So the font if going to be brown.. with a green ribbon.. and different kind of font but sort of similar to the picture below. And our monogram is going to go behind it!! Tell me what you think!

August 21

2009-03-27T20:09:00.001-07:00

August 21st is our wedding date!!!!!
I"M SO EXCITED!!!! It's finally coming together.... and real!

Giveaway!

2009-03-26T01:11:00.001-07:00

Jane's Giveaway over at In The Waiting Line looks great! Be sure to go over and check her out for her 100th blog post!! Congrats girl! She is so much fun to read, you'd love her.

Not to mention, how cute is this?

Pics!

2009-03-25T15:50:00.000-07:00

So a little time ago.. I went to visit my babies (they're hardly babies anymore!) and I never put up the pics from it! Lol So here they are. They are all cute, but some are kinda photojournalistic style that I love. Gosh, I wish I could do photography!!!!!!!!!!! lol

Enjoy!
<3

My Babies!

Progress!!!!

2009-03-25T15:06:00.001-07:00

So we have unofficially/officially booked our wedding reception venue! THANK GOD! I cannot tell you how big of a burden that is lifted off my shoulders, seriously. We've looked at every place that I like from here to Treasure Island. This was our last stop and it is going to work out perfectly! The packages are great, site is gorgeous, and it fits 200 people in our budget!! Go figure! I know all of you brides to be or newlyweds remember what the heck I'm talking about and how stressful it was to find the perfect spot! It seemed like something would be stunning but totally out of our price range.. or something would be cheap but not so pretty. So this is it! Wedgewood Banquet Center is our place to be!

And we have a tentative date of August 21st.. Yes, I said AUGUST! So not only am I crazy busy with life but now I get a wedding to plan in five months :) But honestly, I could not be happier. I cannot wait to be with him. It's soo exciting! Plus, we get to start planning all the fun stuff now :) hollar!

So my help from you guys is.. I need some DIY ideas for favors or reception ideas.. etc. I loved HisMrs idea on photo pieces to put on the bar.. I'm def going to do something like that! So ladies, and gents, get your minds rolling on how to have budget friendly ideas to enhance the location :)

Closer..

2009-03-25T14:24:00.001-07:00

Closer to the day!!

So we've unofficially picked out location.. it's called the Wedgewood Center. It's pretty nice and has an amazing price for 200 people!! Yes, I said it.. 200!! Craziness!! But what can I say? We're very loved. lol jk.

AND

I bought my dress :) I will have to find a picture of it later.. but it's very simple because I have amazing people who are going to add stuff to it. My grandma is doing my veil. And I am just so excited. I honestly wish I didn't have to work to provide for myself or else I'd put more time into planning my wedding lol.

AND

The date is no longer in October but AUGUST> OMGoodness. That means its 5 months away. So I am currently trying to figure out ways to make my life less busy so I can dedicate time to loosing more of this weight! I mean, honestly, I don't want to be skinny-mini, obviously but I would like to have to be able to get my dress altered inwards!!! It fits perfectly without all the understuff on.. so I'll have to take it in anyway.. but you guys know what i mean. :)

I will post more later.. gotta study anatomy!!
<3

Pics..

2009-03-02T18:26:00.001-08:00

Here's the pics I promised...

Michelle's 21st Bday!

Update!

2009-03-02T18:19:00.001-08:00

Update!

So things are still crazy over here! but I am finally trying to make it a conscious decision to gain control over MY schedule.. lol. Too much stuff going on=not so happy Sam! lol.

My little brother came home this weekend.. it was pretty interesting. We'll just leave it up to the Lord to take care of him still. I don't really know what else to do. He's so different now. He looks like a little chulo wearing grease in his hair, bandana on his shoes, etc. Ugh. It frustrates me so much, what happened to my fun little brother? Where'd he go? I want him back!! So just keep him in your thoughts and prayers.. he'll get better, i know it!

We went to Monterey on Friday to babysit Matt's nieces and nephews.. it was a blast :) They're so adorable. They have tons of energy.. of course they're only 7&12. The youngest, Katee asked if she could be our flower girl and we told her yes.. as long as I was the favorite aunt :) lol. Speaking of wedding stuff.. we declined the Hanoum estate offer. It was way to expensive, and we would like some money left over for our house. :) So we are still on the hunt for a venue. We will find one soon though.. :) we have to! lol. I have another place to look at tomorrow!! If you have any ideas.. let me know :)

Job hunt... I still am currently at the same job with the devil. I am trying to look into what to do about her... but in the meantime looking for another job. Hopefully something will come up soon. If you know how to do something legally about my job situation.. let me know please. It would be a big help!

Weight loss.. I gained some of my weight back.. which is part of the reason I havent been weighing in. I am trying to take mroe control of my schedule and make time for exercise and eating healthy. I have tomorrow off so along with my homework, I'm going to try to go grocery shopping and make food for the week. Like in some of my previous posts, I am going to try and fit WW into my budget. I don't want to go to a free meeting until I can afford to continue to go.. so hopefully with a new job will come a new paycheck! :)

Last weekend was my best friends 21st birthday.. and it was a blast. we started at lunch with our friend Stephanie, which was totally fun. I miss our girls dates and stuff. Then we went to the mall to find her an outift, got our makeup done, ran some errands, and got ready to go out. We went to Sac again.. but it was a blast :) I love going out wiht the girls.. and of course Matt :) I'll post some pics!

I hope you are all doing great!
Phillipians 4:13: "I can do all things through Him who strengthens me."

Update!

2009-02-17T17:44:00.000-08:00

Honestly, that's all I can say for my life lately!!

Literally Craziness!

Have you guys seen that movie with Adam Sandler and he has the huge remote, I think it's called "Click"? Well that is exactly what I want right about now. I want a large remote that controls life. I wouldn't be stingy and like fast forward the boring stuff.. I would maybe rewind sometimes and play it again. But mostly I would use the pause button!!!!! I just need a pause button, to stop time and daylight adn everything, so I can catch up. Please tell me some of you guys feel like that too!
Like tonight, I would love to pause everything and study and get some sleep and then press play!So that is why I haven't exactly been the blogging queen lately. Not to mention, I don't have a laptop, which is like numero uno when I pay off my bills!!

So here is a little update on the happenings and topics of Sam! * (Oh, Ps. thanks for all of you lovely followers for staying tuned and even emailing me to make sure I'm alive!! Especially you Ms. I'm on the Today Show, Kirby, from Good Gals!)

*Here is an example of my weekly schedule:
M:I work from 9-5. Come home, study, relax, or hang with the parentals.
T:I work 9-5, school 5:30-10
W:I sleep in :), run errands or do youth things or study, then work 2-6, Youth group 6-9
Th:I work 9-5, School 5:30-10
F:I have class 9-12, then I relax or do youth stuff or homework or family time.
Fri night-Sun night:I work as a receptionist one day a weekend (for now), this is the only family time and Matt time and friend time I have during the week at all.

So this wasn't meant to be a complainy blog (but even if it was, you don't have to read it!)... I just trying to get your guys advice on what the heck to do! You notice I have gym nowhere on there. I have no "Me" time whatsoever. Matt gave me a lecture on how I need to be more selfish.. but in a good way. He thinks I give so much of myself to everything else that i don't have any time to go to the gym or do anything I want to do. Ya know? Which I completely understand. I just need God to help me juggle and for Him to drop the things that aren't necessary. I wish I got paid more so I could at least not have to worry about financial stuff on top of all of this!!! Dang.. I should play the lotto :)

School:is school. I'm doing pre-nursing studies and I def have a full load! But I would rather have a full load and get it over with than spend a million years on my pre-reqs. I love my anatomy class.. the teacher is amazing. He's a dr and is teaching to "give back" to the community but he teaches in a great way. He teaches us stuff that we need to know in the real world. He doesn't go out of the textbook so much and uses powerpoint. He says the textbook is great for founding our knowledge but not so great in the real world. I got a B on my first two exams :) I was so excited. Because I was scared I didn't put enough effort into studying.My other class is English in the morning on Fridays. I was really enjoying it and then I didn't go to class friday of my birthday, then the following friday was a holiday, and now this week I go back. I feel like I've been gone forever and am completely behind. But in reality I'm not too far behind.. except I just found out today I have an essay due on Friday that I have not written or read for!! YIKES!My last class is an online Criminal Justice class. It is really interesting but it takes some time to read through the text and lectures and powerpoints... but it's cool.

My birthday!Was amazing. It was fun. The day of I had lunch with Matt and my best friend Michelle. Her cousin works there so she made me this yummy drink. It was great to actually order something! lol. Then I had a massage. Then got ready for our birthday dinner. By "our" I mean my brother Billy & I. We have the same birthday but we're 2 years apart! Crazy huh?! So we all went to dinner as a family with some friends.. it was fun :). We just ate delicious food! No drinking!!
Then that night my girls and I (and matt lol) went to a 18+ club in Sacramento. We did 18 up because all the girls were 18-20. I FINALLY got a wristband :) Hollar! it was pretty exciting lol. we danced and had a great time. So needless to say on my 21st birthday I didn't get drunk or smashed or even tipsy. I stayed good and true and only had like 2 drinks!
Saturday we were supposed to go to the 21+ spots with my brother and his friends, but they were hungover from the night before. lol. So Matt and I went to a restaurant that turns club in my town. It was fun! We just danced and relaxed. It was a beautiful evening too!!!
The following weekend we went to the city to go bar hopping. Some of my best friends went with me and my brother and his friends. It was fun. Not exactly what I imagined it to be because some people got way to drunk and we had to leave early. I was doing more babysitting than having the best of time. But knowing me, I can make a good time out of anything.. literally! lol. The next night matt took me to dinner, just the two of us, finally! and we went to a local bar and danced and hung out all night. It was fun! I love that place now!
I'm so glad to be 21 not because of the alcohol.. but because I can get into places now! People can invite me to spots and I can get in :)

Diet:Not so great. I haven't gained any weight, yet, but I wouldn't be surprised if it happened! I have no time to go to the gym. And I don't make time to bring my meals to work, so therefore I resort to fastfood. I HATE fast food lol. I'm disappointed in myself but as soon as I get over this flu, I'm jumping back on the bandwagon. I don't want to be fat forever so i will do whatever it takes to change my body! Not to mention I have a wedding in October! Hello!!!

Wedding:I tried on wedding dresses last weekend with my mom and dad (yes, I'm a daddy's girl lol). It was totally fun. My dad went looking at other stores while I tried on the majority of htem with my mom. We were having a ball. I liked 4 dresses.. each of them very different in their own respects. One was like lacy and romantic, another had a corset bodice thing with cupcake wrinkles, one was ruffled and sounds ugly but was gorgeous on. Then of course the lady brings me a gorgeous dress.. IN SIZE 12!! Hello, I'm so not that size. And of course I LOVED the dress. So I'm going to try and find it somewhere else in my size. I noticed as I was looking through magazines that that style seems to be the new trend, so we'll see how that goes.

Work:I don't think I explained my almost quit my job break down on here yet. So here's the short version. I'm a medical assistant at a dr's office. The dr is very peculiar. She's nice when she wants to be but can be a flat out brat. literally. one day she sits me down and proceeds to tell me a story about how she's really good at making people look professional, and getting people prepared for their careers, etc. Then proceeds to tell me how unprofessional I look, my hair is purple and ugly, she asked when I'm redying my hair because she doesnt want it in her office, because it's not professional. Tells me I don't look like the old MA she had because she had looked like an Abercrombie Model, and I do not. My scrubs don't fit me right and are unprofessional (mind you.. I'm wearing scrubs... cute ones with colors and prints and what not). Then tells me I need to take off my nails, which I can understand but it was the day before my birthday so I told her i would the following week. I was flabbergasted! She had some nerve. I left after the conversation and went to class.
The next day she was fine though.. freaking skitzo I swear. And I wasn't exaggerating on anything I told you guys.. that is what she said but longer. My cousin thinks I should find a lawyer because it's border line discrimatory. My other manager at my other job thinks I should too.So since then, she has her good days and bad days. If it were about two years ago, I would have quit that day and never came back. But now that I have bills and responsibilities and the jobworld sucks. I can't. So I'm in the process of looking for another job.. I can't deal with her skitzoness! It's crazy. So hopefully the Lord will drop something in my lap soon :) Until then, I'm stuck!!

Alright it's late now and I have to finish reading. But I hope you guys are all doing great!! Please drop me a line with how lifes going. I will try and browse through your blogs and comment soon!!!

Relax!

2009-02-17T17:43:00.001-08:00

This is where I want to be :p

My, oh my, how I love 3 day weekends! After my last post, y'all can see how much I am in need of one. I love that we all have the chance to relax, catch up on everything!! Family time, studies, homework, and did I mention relax?

Do any of you guys have any big plans for the 3 day weekend ahead??

Did I tell you guys about the mystery dinner we have tomorrow for Valentine's Day? My youth group is putting on a Mystery Valentine's Dinner as a Vday gift/slight fundraiser. It's not a murder mystery though.. it's more like a mystery of what your eating. When people come in to the "restaurant" , they have to fill out a menu.. on one side is a list of food that are all code named.. EX: Devil's delight.. is cake. Ants on a log... is celery with peanut butter and raisins. Does that make sense? So they fill out the menu and then go sit down and it is a four course meal and the youth will serve them each meal. The catch is that on the list of food is the list of utensils and drink as well. So one course you may get speghetti and and a fork or even water, toothpick, and a slice of bread. So sometimes the guests will have to use their hands!! lol. It will be a fun day and as soon as I get off my butt... I can go grocery shopping and start preparing the food for tomorrow!!!Sounds fun right??!??

Persevere!

2009-02-17T17:41:00.001-08:00

I did my weigh in for the week. you can check my other blog if you really must know it. It stayed the same for a week and gained and now lost. The funny thing is, I haven't been to the gym in awhile and went to the stupid bleeping fast food a few times last week. The crappy part about being so busy is I'm busy and broke.. so I don't have time to make healthy food and I don't have the money to buy healthy food on the go! But that will all change again tonight.

Tonight, we had a pastor Greg Terry come in and preach. He's a good friend of the family, an amazing man, and a great preacher. One of the ten tests that we will go through is perseverance... and even though he was talking on a spiritual level more than anything.. I took it also on a weightloss level. So here is some encouragement for all of us.. We have to persevere to get to our dreams (both spiritual and physical). If we don't persevere then that means we give up. and I for one am soooo tired of giving up, throwing in the towel, or quitting. I'M OVER IT!

Once again I've found the motivation somewhere in me to get back on the treadmill...literally.... and get my butt in gear. So I hope this helps you guys a little bit as well!!!I'm sad my man went home and bummed that the 3 day weekend is over!! Back to work & back to life.I hope you guys had a great weekend! Any big plans??I need to post tons of pics later this week!! I have a lot to fill you in on.. picture wise!!

Phillipians 4:13: "I can do all things through Him who strengthens me."

I normally don't..

2009-02-17T17:38:00.000-08:00

So I normally don't post about sports.. but I love my Cal. So I'm reposting this blog from Bears With Fangs Blog

"I figure I should do what I can to rep Memorial Stadium.
Head on over to PrepTicket to vote for Memorial Stadium as it faces off against Kyle Field in a battle of best stadiums.

I know I know. The stadium is falling apart, we stand on our tippy toes in the porta-potties to pee (both guys and gals), and a good number of us have to sit on bleachers without any back support.But c'mon. Is there a more picturesque venue in all of college football?

With the Berkeley Hills to the East, and a view of the Golden Gate and the Bay to the West, you'd be hard pressed to find one that has more charm. Really, there are few things prettier than watching the Bears run out of the tunnel in the their golden tops for a 5PM Fall game as the sun begins to set. Booyakasha."

If anything.... do it for me.. please :)

*My 21st

2009-02-05T22:53:00.000-08:00

These are pics from my birthday last weekend, check them out :)

Blonde Moment today

2009-01-13T13:10:00.000-08:00

I dropped my phone in the toilet.. like a stupid person!!!!!!! and now it won't turn on :(
Gosh. I quit :)

So..

2009-01-12T22:13:00.001-08:00

I prayed with a random person today.. :)
Details later to come. But it was simply amazing.
God is good. God is love!!!
<3

Sin..

2009-01-08T22:02:00.001-08:00

*This is my youth group's lesson from our first week of "First Things First" bible study**

“For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God!”

–Romans 3:23

What is Sin?

*In the beginning, God created the universe and everything in it. He created it so that everything was good. He designed it to operate according to His laws. (Genesis 1)

*Many of us are familiar with the fall of man.. Adam and Eve disobeyed God by eating the fruit. After that, God’s perfect creation wasn’t perfect anymore and his creations (us) would never be the same! (Genesis 3)

*Since then, the world has been plagued with pain, suffering, sorrow, and death; none of which are from God. Every human being is born into sin.

Sin= The tendencies to revel against God’s law.

Sin= Doing as you please (Isaiah 53:6)

Sin= Failing to do the things that we ought to do (James 4:17)

Sin= Failing to recognize God (Romans 1:18-21)

Sin= Failing to obey the Ten commandments and the laws of the land (Matthew 5: 21, 22, 27, 28)

Sin is never a private matter because if affects families (divorce, broken relationships), society (crime, injustice), and earthly matters (pollution, waste).

Sin is rooted in selfishness and pride.

Big Deal. We Mess Up, So what?!

* Sin is not a small or laughing matter. It’s not “Breaking the Rules”. Simply, it’s life or death. You never know when it’s your time to go!

* To sin is to set oneself in opposition to God and to go against the very foundations of the earth. We rebel against the one who created us!

* For some, this is a harder concept to believe, but we are not in complete control of our lives when we belive. And to sin is to defy God (think similar to parents) and it’s an act to try and take God off His throne and take His place.

So what Happens when we sin?

*We are all guilty and have no excuse (Ephesians 2:1-3

*Hell is the place God set aside for those who refuse to obey Him and submit to His authority. It is also called the burning lake of fire.

*God warned Adam & Eve that sinning would result in spiritual death and they did it anyway. There actions affect every person in the world. Spiritual death means you can neither see nor please God.

*God created us to have a relationship, commune, and get to know Him. But we cannot do that if we have sin in our lives. Sin separates us from God.

*Sin robs us from freedom and puts us in bondage (John 8:34)

*To live in sin traps us, we cannot free ourselves from its power and we’re unable to decide right from wrong.

Help! How do we fix it?

You cannot fix it. You cannot change the past. Sin is unremovable. WE cannot do anything. We need help.

Do We Need Superman?

Not quite. But God is the only one who can help us! 2,000 years ago, Jesus Christ took our punishment for us when he died on the cross. Though he was (and still is today) divine, perfect, sinless, innocent, and rightrous; He took our punishment as a mortal man. *He was punished in our place (Isaiah 53:4-6)

*After 3 days, he raised from the dead in victory over satan. He broke the chains and bondage that held us captives to our sins. (Acts 2:24)

*God didn’t do anything wrong yet, he sent His only son to cover our butts! (john 3:16) and make it so we can have a relationship with Him again.

*He came to earth as a man to die for us and bring us back to him (1 Corinthians 5:18-21

*His ressurection proved and sealed his defeat of sin and it’s penalty.. death!

Amazing Grace!

We’re saved by God’s grace. We’re not saved because we’re worthy, deserving, it’s not our divine right, and we surely didn’t earn it. It’s free. He is savior and He alone saves! (Ephesians 7:8-9)

Reception Site?

2009-01-04T14:51:00.001-08:00

So we found this great, amazing, beautiful wedding reception possibility site!! It's The Hanoum Estate in Oakley. My dad knows the pastor who owns it, so he's hopefully going to try and get a deal with them :) Check out the pics, It's gorgeous! HOLLAR! Let me know what you think?!
<3

Happy New Years!

2009-01-01T16:58:00.000-08:00

I don't think I said it yet on here.. so HAPPY NEW YEARS!! I hope everyone had a safe yet fun filled night last night!! I am looking forward to tons of things in 2009! I love new things.. so of course I love new years.. plus it gets rid of last year! :) I'll be getting married in 09, having fun, turning 21, making friends, continuing school and getting closer to Nursing.. :) IM EXCITED!

Lat night was kind of low key.. I didn't get off work until about 7:30. I went straight to my aunt Kelly's house to say hi to my fam bam. Then got home and got dressed. Went by the church to say hi to my parents and everyone. Then we went to my brother's house, he was having a party of course. It was fun. But awkward to be the only sober ones there! So then for the ball dropping we went back to aunt Kelly's and celebrated with all my cousins and sisters! I love my family! I hope you guys had a good night too! What'd you do?

P.S. If you don't see me a lot on here it is because I started another blog: www.soon2behealthybride.blogspot.com
:)

<3

Emerald Bowl

2008-12-30T22:27:00.000-08:00

I failed to give details about the Emerald Bowl! Silly me! So we went to the Emerald Bowl last Saturday. It was Cal Bears vs. Florida Hurricanes. We won, of course. But it was the best game I've been to yet.. and I went to every home game this season! We had GREAT seats. Seriously.. if I spit, it would touch the field. lol. We were second row and near the goal post so we had an amazing view of everything. After the game we went to exit and noticed we had exited in the hallway next to the locker room. Some of the players were headed towards the locker room but there was already a small crowd gathered! So i snuck my way into that crowd adn took pics cause I didn't have anything for them to sign! Lame! Anyway, I ended up shaking coach Tedford's hand, QB Longshore, Jahvid Best, and my favorite player.. Zack Follett. I even told Zack God Bless and he looked at me and said God Bless you too... it was our moment. lol He'll be in pros next year for sure so it was good to talk to him! I was so excited! I included some pics at the bottom of this blog! :)

2009 Ready!

2008-12-29T22:31:00.000-08:00

So I hope everyone had a great Christmas! Mine was quiet.. but fun! I love my family and love spending time with everyone on any occasion! I would post pics, but I need to find my camera!!

I am so excited for 2009!! Mainly because it is just a new year and we def. need one of those. This year was kinda wierd. So I'm excited for this week.. no big plans really. Just hanging out with friends and family at the church. It's wierd to think I won't be at Tanya and Erik's this year.. cause I've spent the last like 8 years there! Oh, and did I mention, I'll be getting married in 2009, so that's another reason I'm excited. Personally, I hate New Year's resolutions.. I think they're silly. Rarely anyone ever finishes them.. and they're too cliche. So I do have big changes coming next year.. but none of them will be resolutions.. because they have already started.

There are a few minor/major changes I plan on making and they started today:
1. Weight loss. It's about time I shed these pounds for good! (http://soon2behealthybride.blogspot.com/)
2. Cleanliness is next to holiness.. but not in my book. My room and car are a mess! Lately, I've just been too crazy (or lazy) to even attempt to clean them.
3. Financial. I have a lot of stuff to save up for.. so I'm teaching myself how to balance my checkbook.. all over again. I want Matt and I to start our life together on the right foot.
4. Youth Group. The youth was ran a little differently before me.. So I'm making some changes. First by our new name. Second by our first bible study "First Things First". I want the kids to know what it is they believe in, how to share it with others, and how to get closer to God. This book is a great way to start it.
5. School. Last semester I did whatever. Too much stuff was going on for my to pay 100% attention. (I did get an A in my political science class though!) This semester is different and I'm actually excited for it! I have a full course load, 4 classes, and all of this other stuff going on.. but it should be a good semester. I'm ready for the Nursing Program already!!
6. Job. I'm thinking about getting a 2nd job at Starbucks or more babysitting.. just for a little while to play catch up on bills and save!! Is this stupid? lol

So that is about all right now.. I will post with pics tomorrow!
:)

P.s. I spent $100 at the grocery store for ALL this food :) HOLLAR!

P.P.S.S How cute is this wedding dress and bridesmaid dress. The wedding gown is a Maggie Scottero and it is gorgeous! Wonderful beading. The bridesmaid dress is totally cute. I wonder if we can change the colors. I love it! and it's cheap!

Ring Shots!

2008-12-26T16:55:00.000-08:00

I learned how to (kinda) take pics of the engagement ring.. here are my first tries.. MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!

*Some of these I like more than other because of the sentimental value.. like those roses are the first roses he ever gave to me. They keyboard.. well we met online... etc.*

Mini-Update!!

2008-12-22T15:58:00.001-08:00

So I was fully prepared to post and give everyone a full update about the weekend and stuff... but I'm sick :( I cannot keep any sort of food or liquid down! It's such a bummer because it's the week of Christmas! I have so much to do! But here is my mini-update!
1. The weekend with the kids was GREAT! I'll post pics later. We all had a lot of fun and they totally missed us. I miss them.. and their parents SO MUCH.
2. I had a good weekend with the parents and Matt together. It was totally chill and no one was in too bad of a mood!
3. I took pictures of my engagement ring.. that I got from the tips off of weddingbee.com! I'll show them soon.
4. I LOVE Tammy's Rebel XT camera that I borrowed for the weekend!
5. Matt and I are getting rolling on the wedding planning.. we have a month, possibilities for venues, etc.
6. I'm sick and feel like crap :(

<3

Life is Great...

2008-12-16T14:52:00.000-08:00

Life is amazing. Life is great. What can I say? I'm ridiculously happy :)

So here's my update:
* I'm addicted... literally.. to wedding stuff. Not so much the stuff.. but the pictures! I love photography already as it is, so it's not surprising. I can't wait to start really planning stuff.
*My last final for school is Thursday morning! Hollar! Then, I just want to work as much as I can to make money before the next semester is over.
*Christmas is next week.. my favorite Holiday. 1) Jesus Christ, my Lord and Savior was born this day. 2) Family time :)
*My 21st birthday is 44 days away.. :)
*I'm going to begin researching venues for the wedding reception this week.. any ideas? Let me know!
* I get to see my babies this weekend!!! :)
*Family situation is getting better.. I just wish my mom would snap out of her funk!

Wedding Quote of the Week:
"Planning a wedding is like coloring when you're 4: There's no right or wrong way to do it. And everyone will love it because they love you!" -Joel Daly (Bride Magazine)

Just some pics of ideas I love:

I will def be having a candy bar!

Cute hair idea.
Def love the idea of sparklers instead of rice or bubbles or whatever else.
My bridesmaid cards :)
Love these centerpiece ideas:

Pick One!!!!

2008-12-14T16:37:00.000-08:00

So these are three options that me fiance and I are considering for our engagement. We want to be sensible with the money, especially in this economy, and have the best day of our lives. If we could plan for the future, that would be a bonus too. So take a look and vote on your favorite! Thanks for the input!

Option #1: Would be to spend our whole budget on a large extravagant wedding ceremony and reception. This option would use all of our budget but would help give us our "fairytale" wedding.
Option #2: To have a family dinner and have Pastor Bill perform a small ceremony at one of the houses. Be married and start our lives together. Then have a reception a few months later. This option would save the money from the church and possible other formalities from option #1. But it would also allow us to save, hopefully, half of our wedding budget for a house.
Option #3: To go to Reno or Tahoe to elope with a few family and friends. Then spend our wedding money on a down payment on a house/condo. This option would allow us to spend most of our money on our future, but the guestlist would be limited. And all of our family and friends may not be there.

So those are the three options we were considering. If you can think of any other options, let us know. We would love your feedback on this issue! We are just barely starting the planning phase but both of these items will help in continuing the plans.
<3

Planning?

2008-12-09T23:10:00.000-08:00

So I think this is a question on EVERY bride-to-be's mind: "How do I get quality EVERYTHING for a cheaper price?"

My parents are giving me a good budget. But I would like to save some of the money for after the wedding and put it down on a house. So I may tweak some things to cut the cost. But how else do you guys cut the cost down? I don't want to blow 10k on a wedding!??! But I still want my princess wedding :)

Any websites you'd recommend? Ideas? What'd you guys do? Help :)

Thanks!

Soon i'll post some pics and ideas of what we're thinking.. <3

I'm Engaged!!!!!!!!!

2008-12-06T20:18:00.001-08:00

I'm Engaged!!!!!!!

December has always been my favorite month.. but now it is for obvious reasons! So here's the scoop!
We woke up this morning (Matt stayed the night at my house because we went out to the city last night with friends, no we don't live together, not until marriage:) exhausted from the previous nights adventures. Got up, get dressed and ready for the last Cal Bears football game of the season :( Meaning no more Zack Follet, no more Felders, no more Alex Mack.. cause they're all graduating this year. Sigh. Anywase, went to the game with Matt's dad (like usual.. it's a Saturday ritual). Everything was fun, great weather, and we won 48-7.

After the game we said goodbye to Matt's dad and then headed to our way. I thought we were going to Beka's recital but Matt decided to take a detour to Indian Rock in Berkeley. For those who have never been, I highly recommend it.. it's gorgeous. These pics are just a little proof.. I've loved it since he took me there when we first started dating.It has a view of all of the bay.. Sf, Oakland, richmond, the hills, etc. I've been trying to go for awhile but the weather has been too crummy. So we go there and just relax, cuddle, and small chat. It was really getting crowded though so we climbed down and went to the car.

We get to the car and he says he has a present for me. He hands over a black photo album. I open it and we start looking through it together. It had all of the pics from when we first started dating to now in it. So as we go down memory lane, we talk about each one of the pictures. lol. Then we get to the end and there's a bunch of blank pages so I kiss him and thank him for the gift. He says "That's not all.. I left the blank pages in the back so we can fill it up. I want to have many more memories with you.. (pulls out the ring) Samantha Middle Name, Last Name. Will you marry me?" I said yes.. of course, I even think I said it before he was done lol. And then he said some more romantic stuff and my eyes got teary.

After that we went to our favorite Italian resteraunt for dinner. These pics are funny cause one is of me so excited.. the other is him like "Oh my goodness whatd i get myself into?" kinda pose! lol. hilarious.

And I'm so excited. I love him to death. I cannot wait to spend the rest of my life with him. I cannot wait to start planning our wedding :) and of course sharing it with all of you... So our story just begins!

Thanksgiving Update

2008-12-05T12:11:00.000-08:00

"You don't choose your family. They are God's gift to you, as you are to them."

So this Holiday season has def. started to a great start. The Thanksgiving festivities went great!!! We had about 40 people at our house for Thanksgiving. All of those 40 people were immediate family.. and we were even missing some! So we had our house full, to say the least. It was FUN, drama free, and a blessing. My family has been through a Lot these past few years.. so it was amazing (and only God's grace could do this..) to see our family actually come together, despite all our differences, and have fun. I hope this is the way things are from now on!!! Unforunately, I had to leave the gathering at my house at around 4pm.

Matt and I then drove down to Monterey for his brother and sister-in-laws house. I love going there. The city itself is just gorgeous, it's next to the ocean (yes, I LOVE the ocean), and his brother's family is so chill and down to earth. There were about 18 people at their house. We ate outside.. which is always fun! (not to mention Deb is totally a cute version of Martha Stewart so it looked like something you would see in a magazine!) We stayed the night at the friend's house down the street. Then woke up the next morning and had sort of a lazy morning with the family. It was a relaxing.. but fun weekend. Matt's nieces (Katee & Cassi) are adorable and fun. They're growing up so fast!!! Hopefully not too fast though, cause I'm going to need some flower girls soon! lol. :) So all in all it was a great weekend.

Sorry I'm a little late posting everything.. I'll include some pics! But all in all.. Thank God because I'm truly blessed to have such a wonderful family! He's amazing!

Changes!!

2008-12-03T12:21:00.000-08:00

My, Oh, My! This holiday season has definetly brought some major changes. I guess I'll start with the bad because the good def. outweighs it... so here I go!

#1: My younger brother Juan (15) has gone to live in Visalia. He now lives in a group home. For those of you who don't know.. this has been sort of coming for a long time. He was adopted when he was five years old. He has never really gotten over that fact and somehow (even to this day) thinks the grass in greener on the other side. But he's wrong and has no idea how wrong he is. So things have gotten crazy lately, his behavior has escalated, there's been some little violence, and it was just the best (and only) thing for my parents to do. I think he will do fine there. It's a group home who's goal is to get the kids independent, be financially stable, and learn rules and regulations. The sad part about the kids in the home is almost all of them don't have families waiting for them, they don't have anyone else to turn to..hints why they're there. Then there's Juan who has a great family waiting for him at home. So that's the bad news. I don't know how long he will stay there or anything like that but it's been rough so keep us all in your prayers still!

#2: One of my best friends Michelle and I went to lunch sometime last week and as we were leaving we drove by this bridal store. This wedding dress and bridesmaid dress was in the window. We HAD to stop. They're gorgeous! The wedding dress (which wasn't actually my focal point, surprisingly) was a little under $1,000. But the Bridesmaid dress, which I love, were like $150 or something. I love the bridesmaid dresses.. when the time is right I want to take this pic and run with it. See what colors they have, sizes, etc. I'm more excited to find those dresses than I am my own! :)

#3: I found a job.. maybe two!!! I am a certified Medical Assistant and have been since Feb. of last year. I did my internship with an Ob/Gyn Dr (Loved it!) but unfortunately they didn't have any positions for me so I moved on. I moved to Family Practice who was Dr Ashby, she is a brilliant lady, a little rude sometimes, but great teacher. I was there for like 3 months. I loved it but we had a little bit of difficulty trying to get a pay raise. So I left to a Pediatric office. I was at the Pediatric Office for about 3 months when tragedy struck in my life. I had to take 1 wk off work due to funeral arrangements and such.. The Pediatric office cut my hours and I've been jobless ever since. So about a week ago I got a call from Dr. Ashby and long story short.. I'm working there a few days a week.. until more hours open up for me! I'm excited to be doing Medical Assisting again because I love it. I'm doing my pre-nursing still so it totally makes sense! I also have a receptionist job at the new Brentwood Massage Envy. So I'm going to try and work all of this in together so I can make some bank :)

*This is a pic of "the Girls" from my MA class last Feb.* <3>

Fortune Cookie Favor!

2008-11-25T09:21:00.000-08:00

So technically, I shouldn't be looking at these sort of things YET. But, I'm human and a girl. So I am. Look what I found, they're fortune cookies that you can put your own personal message in! You can have them normal, dipped in chocolate, clear wrapping, personal message, colors, etc. Totally cool right?? I love it. This is a possible favor idea!!! <3>

Though the enemy attacks..

2008-11-24T12:23:00.000-08:00

The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside quiet waters. He restores my soul; He guides me in the paths of righteousness For His name's sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; You have anointed my head with oil; My cup overflows. Surely goodness and loving kindness will follow me all the days of my life, And I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever. Psalm 23

Thank God for all He does! And no I'm not just posting this because it's Thanksgiving time.. I mean it. This past week a situation went from bad to worse! But with His blessing, my family is still together and going strong. Even though the enemy tries throwing tons of things at us (and me) like: financial argument with the man, brother sent to Jack's, Aunt has lung cancer, temptation..etc. Even though temptation is my biggest problem. I fear him no longer. The enemy has no place in my life.

Though sometimes he tries (REALLY HARD) to get a foot hold in our lives, we know that we have power over him. When he makes obvious attacks on me, I know it is him and not the Lord so I can instantly rebuke him. For the other, not so obvious, times I will probably mess up but I have a God who is loving and forgiving! This verse is just a reminder that God has everything and we shouldn't want from him. He will in fact, lead me to places where I can be sustained and find rest. He will bring healing to my heart, He will lead me from there on paths that are right and good. Even in the darkest of paths, when the most prominent of evil exists in my life, my fears are calmed because I know he is there with me. Praise Jesus! He is an awesome God and I will thank him everyday of my life!
So this is just a simple reminder for anyone who is going through troubles, big or small, He is with you!
On a brighter note: I'm looking forward to Thanksgiving with the fam bam and going to Monterey.. I'm also looking forward to December because of Christmas and maybe, hopefully a surprise :):) And check out the Birthday countdown, HOLLAR! :)

The saga continues..

2008-11-18T21:17:00.000-08:00

I can't get into detail now, because I'm at my grandma's.. But PRAY for my family. We need it. I hope this all gets better, like when we take Juan to Jack's tomorrow, before we pass the point of no return.. well some of us at least!

On a brighter note, my man got a blog.. check it: semans.blogspot.com

Night. <3

Where is My Life going?

2008-11-17T13:42:00.000-08:00

For the most part, this blog has been carefree and lively. It has just entailed the daily happenings of my life.. my other blog has been the more personal one, for the most part.. Well get ready to get personal..

The thought in my head at the moment: Am I where I am supposed to be in life? Is this really my purpose and my call? What if some of my mistakes in life have took me on a different path?

These first two bible verses are verses that every Christian knows and I've memorized them from Sunday School a long time ago. The second verse has been an argument against abortion for as long as I can remember. But at this point in my life they both play key roles. Jer 29:11 (NIV) "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."Jeremiah 1:5 "Before I formed you in the belly I knew you; and before you came forth out of the womb I sanctified you, and I ordained you a prophet to the nations."This verse is so comforting knowing that God set out distinct plans for me.. all of us.. but me! He thought about how he wants myself to make an impact in this world.. At the same time, it's disheartens me a tad. I mean, let's face it, we've all made mistake.. some huge, some minor. One of my thoughts was what if my mistakes took my on a different path in life? A different plan than the original one God has in store for me? But then He told me, not to fear, our God knows everything, even before it happens (which is hard to understand sometimes, but true). He is ominicent. Psalm 147:4-5: ''He telleth the number of the stars; He calleth them all by names. Great is our Lord, and of great power: His understanding is infinite.'' So I now know that some of these thoughts were just my mistrust in myself and honestly, maybe even a tad mistrust in God. I am the type of person who double checks things.. I wanted to make sure that everything on my plate is actually supposed to be there. And it is.

Honestly, the youth group that I am a leader of... is a large part of the reason why all of this came to my mind. The youth and some people from the past who tried to ruin what I had with them. But the bottom line is.. I messed up, but that was 2 years ago. I'm forgiven. I haven't done anything like that Since!. Bottom line. (But this is all a little background, I guess?!)

I have always been a Christian, since I was little. I've always known that I was going to be a Youth Leader (of course back then, I thought I would be a youth pastor after going to a Christian college). I've always loved God. But sometimes I didn't put him first in my life. I put a best friend that I had before him and sometimes before my family (sorry, bout the nose piercing dad. lol). This has nothing to do with her and all to do with me. I let other influences get the best of me.. and until lately, I thought that was going to haunt me forever. But our God is a loving and forgiving God. Romans 3:23 "For all have sinned and fallen short of the Glory of God". But my problem was.. I wasn't forgiving myself! Mark 11:25 "And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive him, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins." I was still holding what felt like this burden of guilt, despite me asking the Lord to forgive me several times.. until I finally realized, DAH SAM! LET GO! And I gave it to him.. and he took it from me.. Our sins are as far east as they are west.. as long as we don't try and get them back. Ya know?

Now this is the hard part. 1 Pet 2:11 (NRS) Beloved, I urge you as aliens and exiles to abstain from the desires of the flesh that wage war against the soul. The devil knows my weaknesses.. He's not a stupid enemy.. He knows how he can try and get into our minds, families, friends, relationships, and he can try to tempt us. But the one thing I keep in mind is that the devil does all of that because he has already lost. "I am he that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore, Amen; and have the keys of hell and of death" (Revelation 1:18). So yes, I did mess up.. the devil knows that and once we realize that he has NO power over us.. we should take Glory in that.

John 16:33 — "I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." We will all have troubles. But I have decided to us my troubles and my past to better the future. I live a great life now. I am trying to live a sanctified life now, because I don't want to be satisfied with just being a Christian. I want it to be more of who I AM. People will come against you, even those who call themselves Christians. People will hurt your and deceive you and try to bring you down. But have FAITH. The Lord has been through all of this. He knows our pain, suffering, and what we're going through. He should be the only friend or best friend we need.. of course others are f

So this is at the point to where I am in my life. Proverbs 3:5-6 "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths" I trust the Lord with all I am. I trust that he knows my future, he knows my past (and still forgives me), He knows the choices and battles I face on a day to day bases. But if I wake up with the attitude of "Good morning God, What're you doing today? Can I be in it?" Honestly, it changes my whole day and mindset. Nothing can try and ruin it. I know that this youth group and this church is where I am supposed to be. I know that I live a life that they can look up to, and I can be an example. I know that my family will be behind me no matter what. I know who my true friends are. I know that I have a man in my life who I love and couldn't imagine being with out him. I know my dad is always there to come to for advice, or just to listen. I know these things now because of what I have been through. I know that simply saying the name of Jesus in a stressful situation or a big mess... allows everything to go away. It allows Him to be in control, once more. I love the place where I am in my life right now. I will continue to move forward and to Let God take over.

These are kinda just for me, but they're the things I need to continue or start to do:
1) Continue to be in prayer. Keep that open line of communication with God
2) Give Thanks. I have a great life and am always thankful of it
3) Get into his word. I love to read, but have fallen away from it for awhile. I need to get back to it. I want to know everything about God.
4) Be prepared. (For everything and anything) For youth, for the temptations to continue flying my way.. cause the devil knows i'm on a rampage :).. for life.
5) Find ways for the youth ministries to grow. Get these kids started on a sturdy foundation of what there faith really means to them.
6) Get ways to outreach to them community, family, and friends. I don't want them to be left behind!

This is my hard part that I need to do. We all should do. Matthew 5:44-45 But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. I told you it was hard! lol

So my parting words are this: Jesus Loves You. All of You. Despite your past, he loves you and wants a close and intimate relationship with all of his children. He is there waiting for you with open arms.. let him in. find him. I hope this looong post helps some of you like it helped me. Have Faith in all you do. And if for some reason, you don't know who this Jesus person I'm talking about it? Or you don't have a personal relationship with him? Email me: samiam4evao6@gmail.com I'd be glad to share with you. Have a good day!!!!

In a song by Unhindered (on my playlist) "Holy Is Your Name", it states these lyrics:
You are my creator
I'm gonna sing to you forever
And let the world proclaim
Holy is Your name
You are my creator
I'm gonna sing to you forever
And let the world proclaim
Holy is Your name

You're in my mind, You're in my heart
You're always near, You're never far
You bring me joy, You give me peace
You love the world and even me

Will you be left behind?

2008-11-17T13:24:00.000-08:00

This video is intense.. but true. The time is coming. Will you be ready? Do you know who Jesus Christ is? Will any of us be ready? I know everyone says The End is always coming.. every generation it is announced.. but I really believe it is coming soon. His people need to get ready! We don't want to be left behind!!!!

Life with the Girls..

2008-11-14T11:14:00.000-08:00

Tonight my cousin, Tracy, is hosting a Girls Night In!! And let me just tell you.. I'm EXCITED! It's going to be all of my cousins: Ashley, Katie, Me, Heather, Tracy, Tiffany, Amber, and my aunts: Kelly, Nana, My mom, and my grandma!!! Hollar. That's most of the crazy women in my family, all together under one roof for fun, games, food, and laughter! We are a hilarious bunch of women. We're going to get make overs and facials too.. thanks to Tiff. So I am going to get off here and go help cook and set up for the night's events! I just thought I'd fill you in.. pictures will be up soon :)

Holidays are vast approaching!

2008-11-12T11:18:00.001-08:00

The holiday season is fast approaching.. I can tell you, I'm nothing but excited!!! I love my family. I love it when we're all together, even with the occasional drama, and I love the fun/games/good times we have when we're together! But as with any other Holiday season.. this one will be a tricky one!! I now have to try and add all of Matt's family into the Holiday Festivities, whom I love :) Not to mention, I LOVE cooking. I love making new things, inventing new things, or just sticking with the Holiday favorites. And it totally helps that I'm a good cook!

So far the schedule is as reads...
Thursday: My family will have Thanksgiving at my house at 2pm, unless mom changes it again. (I tried to get it to start at noon and mom thought it was a bad idea, because it's early. Not to mention, my family has a tendency to be late :) Then around 4, we will have to head down to Monterey to go visit Matt's brother and sister, Tip & Deb. (So when we get married, they're going to be my brother in law and sister in law... and I'll have nieces!!!! Just a tid bit of exciting news) I love going to there house, it's a cute house, fun time.. but not so much relaxing! lol.
Friday: Matt's parents are divorced and his mom lives in Alaska. His dad and dad's girlfriend, Gary and Terry, don't care when we all get together for dinner. So we'll probably do Friday at their house. I'll bring along my delicious pies like last year.. and we'll have a good, family dinner. It will probably be the five of us: Robert (his brother), Terry, Gary, Me, & Matt. Which is a lot quieter than Thanksgiving around my house.. you know the 50 people in my immediate family!! lol
December: His mom comes down in early December. I'm excited because I like his mom and her husband, Cherie and Thom! They come down from Alaska a few times a year and we always visit them when they do. We'll probably do dinner when they come down and before they leave. I guess it will be our Thanksgiving/Christmas dinner with them?!
Oh, and from what I know.. December is supposed to be a "special" month :) It already is my favorite time of year, but this year maybe a little more special! :)

When it gets closer to Thanksgiving, I will post my "Thankful Blog". Who knows? You may even be in it!!!

Happy Holidays, thus far! God bless!

Harvest Party!!!!!!!!

2008-11-08T17:03:00.001-08:00

So at the bottom of this post, I included a slideshow (I hope it works cause I'm kinda slow at this thing) of my pictures from the church Harvest Party. I can proudly say it was a big success. It did sprinkle a little, but we prayed for the Lord to hold the rain until we were done. He did just like we asked. There's was a good amount of people coming through in different spurts. There were plenty of volunteers. The costume contest went good, I think like only one person tried to be scary in it. The Fear Factor went great too! It wasn't as gross this year and Brandon even added an obstacle, so that was fun for the kids. Madison, my cousin, ended up winning! You go Girl! So all the stress and planning, Debbie and I put in, totally paid off. All of the volunteers, hard work, creativity from both church totally paid off too. I'm excited that Antioch church was involved this year because next year will be even bigger and badder. Brentwood church has already offered to help, as well. So I'm very excited to plan that next year as well!!!!

That day and night was totally fun too. I was babysitting Jay's three girls.. who I totally love. They call me their aunt.. lol. So we had a mini sleepover at their house after the Harvest Party. Let's just say Matt got an ear full of girly talk that night!! lol. We did get a scary interruption though.. Some guy in a scary face mask knocked on the door.. So I answered it and I was scared but the dude was like "Can I have Candy?". I was like "No, Sorry we don't have any". The dude was persistent and kept asking until I had to ask him nicely to leave and shut the door. Then the guy started turning the handle trying to get in.. I was like "Babe, YOU take care of it!" lol. Meanwhile, Maddy started crying and Amanda and Sarah were totally freaked out! So Matt asked them to leave and opened the door one last time only to see Audrey's face in the door. I was SOO relieved but kinda irritated at the same time. Needless to say the girls were totally relieved! lol She just stopped by to scare us and say hellooo!!!!!

Oh, and then the following day was the Cal Vs. Oregon game. Oh my goodness it was cold!! For those who don't know, Matt's dad bought us Season Passes to the Cal Football Game.. it was a father/son tradition that he graciously invited me in on :) and I LOVE it. I love sports, but actually being there in all of the live action is SO exciting!! But anyway, that game we knew it would be cold.. but not raining!!!!! Matt's dad came a little more prepared than us because he had a water proof jacket on. Matt had layers of clothes on and a waterproof jacket on as well.. Meanwhile, I had a long sleeve sweatshirt on and a cotton (you know the water absorbant stuff) sweatshirt on. LOL. I was soaked. Before halftime, I had to go by a poncho because I was freezing and my sweatshirt must have weighed like 20 lbs. But it was an exciting game! We won and I had a LOT of fun..especially since I love the rain!!!!!!!!!!
Overall.. a good weekend! <3

COLD!

2008-11-05T11:41:00.000-08:00

So I made this collage thing.. kinda cool huh?! I like it. I'll make more soon!

The morning after..

2008-11-05T09:20:00.000-08:00

Okay so I'm still a little bummed!!! Glover got re-elected!?! How, I dunno. Prop 4 failed. McCain failed.

BUT Prop 8 PASSED!! THANK YOU JESUS.

:)

So I have to study for a test and relax just a tad because I've been up since 5am EVERY morning!! So I believe it's nap time :)

<3

More to come..

Oh My..

2008-11-04T21:23:00.000-08:00

So I can't necessarily say I am totally shocked.. as I'm watching the news right now. But I honestly was hoping this would turn out completely different. Obama is our first Black President... That's a history changing moment!!! I can honestly say that I would've preferred a woman (Sarah Palin) to be the first in the White House and McCain have one. Obama is underqualified, scary, his middle name is Hussein for goodness sake (lol personal opinion), for abortion, for gay marriage, for stem cell research...etc. Goodness, I cannot believe it! lol. I'll get over it.. sooner than later.. hopefully, or I'm MOVING! lol I am honored to say that I was alive when our first black president was elected.. but I wish it was one with better morals.

And as of right now Prop 8 and 4 are passing, Agopian is ahead of Glover, so maybe it won't turn out to be such a bad night :) (teasing, of course). But with that said, only 9% of the votes have been counted.

P.S. So I'm not a poor sport and I am a respectful person... so give me a day to get used to the fact that he's President.. and then.. I will get on my knees and pray for our leaders nightly. I will respect the position that he will uphold.. and I will pray even harder because HE is in it. I will pray that come January 20th.. things won't change as drastically as they could possibly chage. I will pray that I can make more money before he proposes all these taxes and harms to small businesses!! (lol) and right now I'm praying for Agopian, Yes on 8 & 4!!!!!!!!

And if Erik was in his grave, I'd know he'd be turning in it! lol

Ok more later on: the election, Harvest Party, and Life :)

<3

...Missing You...

2008-10-28T22:12:00.000-07:00

**Prelude: On June 28, 2008 a small plane crashed killed four people at Mt. Charleston, Nevada. They claimed the lives of Tanya and Erik Nunn and Craig and Michele Wilson. They left behind seven beautiful children and a community that misses them dearly. Michele was a stewardess for United Airlines, Craig a BART Police Officer, Tanya a housewife, Pastor's wife, (etc) and Erik was a Pastor of New Lifeline Ministries and was running for Supervisor.**

Today marks the fourth month since I have heard from you or seen you and I miss you terribly. I take joy in the fact that you both are in heaven with the Lord. And I cannot wait until we can meet again there. But I can't help but think about you guys allllllll the time. I will never forget you guys and soon it won't hurt to remember all the good times we shared. I'm blessed to have gotten the chance to know you both and spend 8 years with you!! But honestly, it didn't matter if people knew you for one day, one week, or their whole lives.. you made people feel so welcome, so loved, and so wanted. No one can ever take away what you had with everyone you knew (sorry brittany) because we all know how much you loved us.

I love seeing your children often. Tete is getting tall, Elorah is being a brave big sister, Niko is still the muscle woman, stubborn girl (like Erik), and Ethan is a goofy little boy now. The girls love soccer and they all love staying up in Mountain Ranch. We will still continue to pray for them daily!! You did an amazing job raising them thus far and Nan and Pop will do the rest... along with all of us.

I'm so glad you two were apart of my family and I appreciate the friendship you shared with my parents and myself. My parents miss you soooooooo much too. The other day I had sent my dad a funny email and of course it was political. He then replied with, "Who can I send this too?" My instant reaction was, "Erik! He'd like it!". It totally slipped off the tongue, but the look on my dad's face was unforgettable. Eddie still hasn't turned off Erik's phone.. (It's sort of a blessing in disguise for now).

Tanya, I miss your: Spongebob Laugh, our Costco trips, random phone conversations, just calling to say I Love You, seeing your gorgeous face singing on stage, you driving with your elbows the whole way home, our Mexico trips, camping trips, scary movies & popcorn, our funny picture taking skills,... and SOO much more.

Erik, I miss your: laugh, your goofiness, you falling asleep after lunch Every Sunday, our political talks, our motivational talks, you being the one to tell me straight up how it was, and I even miss phone banking for you or walking door to door. You would have made one heck of a Superviser!! I miss SO much more than that!

We love and miss you both.

*In Loving Memory of Erik & Tanya Nunn*

Bay Area Babble

New blog!

Intr

Post Thanksgiving!

Happy THURSDAY!

Happy Halloween!!!

TaDA!!

Teaser....

TEASIN U

Fire Me!

Take 2!

Random..

And...

Update Time!

P.S.

Recap!

Lions, Tigers, HAIR, oh my!!

Summer!

Random-ness!

Tweet-Tweet!

Another Statistic..

Reception!

*The Kids*

We're in a blog!

Introducing..

*Teaser*

Double Digits!

Word!

More.. Teasers..

I should really follow directions..

E-Pics Up!

Damask...

E-Pics!

E-Shoots!

Crazy!

This Sucks..

Giveaway!!

Invites!!

August 21

Giveaway!

Pics!

Progress!!!!

Closer..

Closer to the day!!

Pics..

Update!

Update!

Update!

Relax!

Persevere!

I normally don't..

*My 21st

Blonde Moment today

So..

Sin..

Reception Site?

Happy New Years!

*Emerald Bowl*

2009 Ready!

Ring Shots!

Mini-Update!!

Life is Great...

Pick One!!!!

*Planning?*

I'm Engaged!!!!!!!!!

*Thanksgiving Update*

"You don't choose your family. They are God's gift to you, as you are to them."

Changes!!

*Fortune Cookie Favor!*

Though the enemy attacks..

The saga continues..

Where is My Life going?

Will you be left behind?

Life with the Girls..

Holidays are vast approaching!

Harvest Party!!!!!!!!

The morning after..

Oh My..

...Missing You...

The Kids

Teaser

Emerald Bowl

Planning?

Thanksgiving Update

Fortune Cookie Favor!