tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-72356727221763399112024-02-19T02:15:50.381-06:00The Story of MishyMishyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17675989343753823166noreply@blogger.comBlogger71125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7235672722176339911.post-55703152424297157082012-03-07T16:47:00.000-06:002012-03-07T16:47:16.227-06:00Can you hear me?Today I woke up and got ready for work, just like any other day. However, something made me stop and go to the other jewelry box when picking out my accessories for the day. I opened his jewelry box - the one Mike gave me on our anniversary. The one where he hung a silver cross necklace I had been eying for some time and where he tucked a tanzanite and diamond ring into the drawer. I opened each and every drawer, I touched and picked up each pair of earrings, each ring, each necklace... and I felt nothing.<br />
<br />
I didn't get the usual feeling of comfort, of joy, or of good memories flooding my brain. It was what I was looking for, but I didn't get it. At that moment my heart just made a thud in my chest and my brain shut itself down, shielding me from the painful emotions. The ones where I realize - time is passing and I'm starting to forget the little things. What does his voice sound like? I remember loving his laugh but I can't hear it anymore. I remember how he liked to hold my hand but I can't feel it anymore. I remember how he styled his hair but I can't touch it. I can't prove my memories and they are not as fresh.<br />
<br />
This new feeling of loss is different than when he passed away almost 4 years ago. It comes with fear and doubt. Will I one day forget everything? Did it all really happen? Is all this progress toward moving forward going to just cease?<br />
<br />
As I closed up the jewelry box and put on the necklace he bought me for Valentine's day one year, I couldn't help but say to myself, "he loved me, right?" I couldn't believe I even questioned it, but there it was, hanging in the air. I know the answer, but I guess I was just hoping to hear him say yes, just one more time.<br />
<br />
RIP Michael R. Eckhoff 5.21.08Mishyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17675989343753823166noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7235672722176339911.post-29122421248577244332011-12-31T15:14:00.002-06:002011-12-31T15:17:32.746-06:00Make way for 2012!<b>Looking Back on 2011</b><br />
<ul>
<li>My Godson was baptized!</li>
<li>I was offered a full-time position at my job.</li>
<li>My cousins Travis & Phyllis started the next generation with baby Hannah!</li>
<li>I bought a house.</li>
<li>I got engaged to a wonderful man <3</li>
<li>I repaired an old relationship <3</li>
<li>I strengthened new relationships :D</li>
</ul>
<b>Looking Forward to 2012</b><br />
<ul>
<li>My bridal shower!</li>
<li>I'm getting married!</li>
<li>Our friends Frank & Katrina are getting married!</li>
<li>Our friends Jon & Melissa are getting married!</li>
<li>We might start trying for a baby after the wedding :) Will we make the cut off for a dragon baby? (cue suspense)</li>
</ul>
<b>Goals</b><br />
My goals are always the same, to strive to be the best person I can be regardless of how others treat me - to be true to myself and not change who I am based on the actions of others. To continue to be that person who loves to take care of others whether it be humans or my pets and yet still remember to take time for myself and do the things that I enjoy. This is the person who I was, the person I lost for a few years and the person I'm slowly getting back to being. God's blessings, love and peace to everyone today, tomorrow, next year and always.<br />
<br />
<div style="color: purple;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Love,</span></div>
<div style="color: purple;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Michelle</span></div>Mishyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17675989343753823166noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7235672722176339911.post-11163141537169309632011-09-30T22:29:00.000-05:002011-09-30T22:29:07.894-05:00Less Boxes, More Furniture & a May WeddingWell, we are certainly making progress with the move-in process. Thanks to my dear friend Sammy we've organized and unpacked many boxes but we still have plenty more to take care of. However, we take it slow and only open boxes when we feel like it. Some days we open boxes on days we don't plan on it and sometimes we don't open anything for almost a week. Thankfully the boxes can now fit in two rooms - the dining room and the guest room. The living room is almost empty and put away and most of the other rooms just have a few things here and there. It's starting to look really good. So... less boxes, now, onto more furniture.<br />
<br />
My living room sectional finally came in. It's gorgeous and super comfortable and leather. It's amazing, has three reclining seats and a pull out bed. I'm in love with it. Worth every cent. I'm pretty sure our guests will love it too. It's nice to have seating again that hasn't been totally overtaken by our pets. In addition, Kristopher and I also got out desks in for our office. It's awesome. Once everything gets put away properly it should serve to be a very functional space for the both of us. He plans to use his mostly for his work and gaming and I use mine for my computing and crafts. I haven't added any other furniture, we had enough from the last house.<br />
<br />
A May wedding! Last weekend, Kristopher and I went to Houston, TX with my mom to get some of the major wedding details hammered out. We've picked a venue, a church, solidified dates and put down deposits. This is really happening! Since then I've been scoping out live bands, sending out "Will you be My..." invites to our bridal party and even trying on some wedding dresses. I can't wait until May 12, 2012. I just hope my stress level can stay at a normal level until then. I know, highly unlikely, but a girl can dream, can't she?<br />
<br />
Next thing coming up? Thanksgiving! My mom, sister and possibly aunt and grandparents are going to come down. That's my deadline for getting the house in order. Hopefully Kristopher gets to work on our entertainment center so there aren't any wires hanging out everywhere when they see the house for the first time.Mishyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17675989343753823166noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7235672722176339911.post-59295320583716017942011-08-30T21:35:00.001-05:002011-08-30T21:35:03.267-05:00We've Moved!So we've finally moved this past Saturday and Sunday and I'm exhausted! The house has turned from a nice, calm area into a cluttered mess of boxes, furniture and items scattered all about. I've thankfully been able to open quite a few boxes and get them out of the way thanks to the help of the best helper ever - Sammy and also to my friend Kayla last night who was lifting boxes like super woman. You guys rock. Luckily for me, they have not been scared off and will be back probably on Wednesday for some more box-opening madness. Today is my night off. As much as I don't want to take a night off, I know I need one so I don't get burned out; especially since I didn't plan to take any time off of work for this.<br />
<br />
Speaking of work, I just have to say, as hectic as my job gets; I really love it. I don't think I've ever had a better boss than the one I work for now and I hope to be with this company for a long time. Thankfully I don't have to choose between my job and life and that is such a relief. Knowing your boss is understanding of life's situations really helps with the stress level. It's also nice to have a boss that recognizes the work that you do and is sincerely appreciative of it. I always knew working for a small company would be the best kind to work for!<br />
<br />
Wedding planning is also moving along. It's a little slower than I'd like but at least it's going. The new target wedding date is May 12, 2012. I know, it's Mother's Day weekend but it seems the venue and church is going to line up for that date. Mom, Kristopher and I are going to Houston near the end of September to check everything out and book the event so I'll definitely know by then.<br />
<br />
Now if I could only find an extra iPhone sync cable in this mess...Mishyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17675989343753823166noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7235672722176339911.post-54745415122930584632011-08-18T08:36:00.000-05:002011-08-18T08:36:01.079-05:00The Beginning of Wedding PlanningWell, I have been engaged for not even a week yet and have immersed myself in wedding planning in addition to getting our house all put back together in one piece. Talk about stressful!<br />
<br />
Here are the details we have hashed out so far:<br />
<br />
Date: May 5, 2012 (may change due to venue/church availability)<br />
Location: Houston, TX in either the Downtown or Uptown/Galleria area<br />
Ceremony: At a nearby LCMS Lutheran church (depends on availability and venue selected)<br />
Time: probably an afternoon ceremony and evening reception<br />
Color Palette: Dark purple or plum, gray, black, white, silver accents<br />
Bridesmaid Dresses: not floor length! (too hot for that craziness)<br />
Groomsmen Tuxes: we may dare to have them in gray tuxes but have not decided yet<br />
Music: Live band<br />
<br />
So far, just from online research (thanks to my mom and my sister), the Downtown Aquarium, Magnolia Hotel and JW Marriott all look promising. I'm hoping one of those works out, so far they are my top 3 picks. Mom and I (and hopefully Kristopher is available as well) will be scoping out these places in September. I'm nervous and really excited at the same time. I have no idea what my reaction will be when I actually step into that reception location for the first time and realize that I am planning another wedding... and what happened to the first one. I've been excited while mixed with a bunch of emotions over the little planning I've done so far.<br />
<br />
My sister has jumped right into helping out. Last weekend she went and tried on bridesmaid dresses already. She went to 3 stores! She was texting me pictures and I was still sleeping. What an amazing, helpful and great person to have helping you out! We found a few winners and definitely some losers (an Asian should never try on yellow; you just don't put yellow on yellow)! So we gathered a list of designers and style #s and my best friend in NY, Kelly is going to go out on the bridesmaid dress search next. She has the list two locations that I know carry the lines of dresses we are looking at.<br />
<br />
So now that I've got CT & NY covered, I suppose I will need to do some dress hunting in Lafayette as well. I've ordered special invitations for our bridal party that I hope will be a huge hit. It's quite a big party but we know not everyone might be able to commit due to finances and less than 8 months notice. It's okay, as long as they know that we were considering them for our special day.<br />
<br />
Due to the short(er) engagement period, we're also going to forego the engagement party. We see it really as a chance for both sides of the family to do a meet and greet but everyone is so spread out, I'm afraid Kristopher would just be meeting my family all over again by himself! Ha!<br />
<br />
I've got plenty of details in my head and spreadsheets and bookmarks are being utilized to the fullest already. This will be an interesting next 8 months for sure!Mishyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17675989343753823166noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7235672722176339911.post-59543646604190639872011-08-16T18:00:00.000-05:002011-08-16T14:24:03.482-05:00Bless the Broken Road<b>Bless the Broken Road</b><br />
<small><b>Songwriters:</b> Boyd, Bobby C; Hannah, Jeff; Hummon, Marcus;</small><br />
<br />
I set out on a narrow way, many years ago<br />
Hoping I would find true love along the broken road<br />
But I got lost a time or two<br />
Wiped my brow and kept pushing through<br />
I couldn't see how every sign pointed straight to you<br />
<br />
Every long lost dream led me to where you are<br />
Others who broke my heart, they were like northern stars<br />
Pointing me on my way into your loving arms<br />
This much I know is true<br />
<br />
That God blessed the broken road<br />
That led me straight to you<br />
Yes He did<br />
<br />
I think about the years I spent, just passing through<br />
I'd like to have the time I lost, and give it back to you<br />
But you just smile and take my hand<br />
You've been there, you understand<br />
It's all part of a grander plan that is coming true<br />
<br />
Every long lost dream led me to where you are<br />
Others who broke my heart, they were like northern stars<br />
Pointing me on my way into your loving arms<br />
This much I know is true<br />
<br />
That God blessed the broken road<br />
That led me straight to you<br />
<br />
But now I'm just rolling home into my lover's arms<br />
This much I know is true<br />
<br />
That God blessed the broken road<br />
That led me straight to you<br />
<br />
That God blessed the broken road<br />
That led me straight to youMishyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17675989343753823166noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7235672722176339911.post-54773970542351463702011-08-14T22:03:00.000-05:002011-08-14T22:03:45.533-05:00An Engagement StorySo it would seem that everyone else has blogged about it, so I suppose I should update my blog too. So here is the short version of my story with Kristopher.<br />
<br />
Kristopher and I met through an online video game that Mike had gotten me obsessed with called <i>City of Heros</i>. I'm pretty sure, at first that we actually disliked each other very much and I'm not sure when that changed exactly. Anyway, there was a set group of people that we would play with and considered "friends." One day I, knowing Kristopher was an IT professional, called him to ask how to install a video card into Mike's computer. Well he sent me a link of basic instructions, which I followed, and got everything working. He was QUITE impressed! (Apparently he thought I'd look at them and decide not to do it myself.) Anyway, we were just friends at that point and remained as such for a few years. When Mike and I got engaged 12.28.07, he was very happy for us, I even told him he'd get an invite to the wedding!<br />
<br />
Then, on 5.21.08, life changed drastically. As most of you already know, Mike passed away from a brain tumor and I was left pretty much shattered. That morning I called both my best friend and Mike's but neither picked up the phone. I think they were probably both getting ready for work at that hour. In desperation, I called Kristopher just to have anyone to talk to (my mom was still en route with my brother to the hospital). Thankfully, Kristopher picked up the phone and I told him what happened. Since that day, Kristopher has always been there, supporting me and helping me get through Mike's death. Being an insider looking in and not having to grieve Mike's death in a personal way, he was able to offer lots of insight and unbiased support.<br />
<br />
Maybe it's not the fairytale way to start a relationship but it just happened. We talked all the time. If I needed to cry or was having a difficult time at work I could always call Kristopher and talk to him about Mike. He was, and still is, so understanding and supportive and not once has he ever expressed jealousy over Mike or acted like he was in competition with him. Of course, our friendship grew into something more and I was not having an easy time being by myself in New York. I flew to Louisiana to meet Kristopher for the first time and it was like all my burdens were temporarily lifted.<br />
<br />
A few more visits back and forth and I decided to leave NY and move to LA for a chance to move on with my life. Some people felt it was way too soon and they may still be bitter about it now but I know I <i>had</i> to do what I needed to do for me. I wasn't going to hold back and wait like I did when I was with Mike and miss out on everything we had planned. So I moved.<br />
<br />
It's been almost three years since that move. It hasn't always been easy. Learning to be in a relationship with someone new had it's difficulties but we persevered. Kristopher has helped me realize that the grieving process is different for everyone and he was open about his own grieving when his brother passed away many years ago. He continues to support me and Mike is not a forbidden topic in our lives, in fact, he <u>enjoys</u> hearing stories about Mike.<br />
<br />
Well on 8.8.11 I was having a particularly difficult day. It was the 2nd anniversary of what would have been my wedding day with Mike. I pretty much zoned out for most of the day and just thinking about how excited Mike had been about the wedding we were planning. On 8.9.11, Kristopher proposed -- online. At approximately 4pm in the afternoon I received a push notification to my iPhone with a proposal and a picture of the ring we had picked out several weeks ago. I didn't cry but smiled big and laughed a little. He knew me so well! Most people might think that is the worst proposal ever but I know the meaning behind it and I loved it. It was <b>perfect</b>. When I got home after work, he got down on one knee with box in hand and asked me to marry him. Of course, I said <i>yes</i>.<br />
<br />
So now you know our story and I hope that although it grew from such a sad event, that you see the positive in it. God truly has blessed me with not one soulmate but <u>two</u>. He made sure that when he took Mike away to heaven that I would have someone to help me through it. A few weeks before the proposal, when I was doing a lot of work on the house, I noticed several rainbows appearing. Ones that reminded me of the rainbow that comforted many of us on Mike's funeral day. I knew it was Mike smiling down on me, reassuring me that it's okay to settle down, move on and be with someone else. I just knew it. It was like he was hugging me from heaven. Then a few days before the proposal I heard Tears in Heaven, the song his friend sang at his wake. I felt like he was telling me, "Go, you can't stay here with me." And so, I went with his love in my heart.Mishyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17675989343753823166noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7235672722176339911.post-77159707024434471082011-08-10T18:27:00.000-05:002011-08-10T18:27:01.225-05:00Final Wrist UpdateFinal? Why, do you ask, is this the final update?<br />
<br />
Simply because it's healed! <b>It's finally healed!</b> The only issue is that it lacks a little bit of the flexibility I had before and some strength but with some daily stretching and some exercises, I'm sure I can get that back into shape in no time!<br />
<br />
I saw a hand specialist named Robby LeBlanc here in Lafayette. He works out of one of the Lourdes Regional Medical Center office buildings. We talked about my options and decided on another round of cortisone. He made sure he dug around with that needle in my wrist and put the cortisone in all the right spots. It was slightly painful (I was numbed before he started) but totally worth it. After the shots it took about 3 or 4 days before everything really loosened up and the pain went away. I was so happy I could cry! Especially since we were starting to do a lot of work on the house and I needed my wrist to get better. It took about another week before all the bruising from having a needle digging around in my wrist went away but it was totally worth it. If you ever have any sort of hand issues, this doctor is <i>the </i>doctor to see!Mishyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17675989343753823166noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7235672722176339911.post-57949627002164281812011-08-08T17:30:00.009-05:002011-08-08T17:30:00.536-05:00House UpdateWow, sorry I haven't updated on the house lately! Kristopher and I have been really busy prepping it for our move and we have been <i>quite </i>exhausted the last few weeks. Me especially since I've been working on the house until 11-11:30pm at night in addition to my normal work day. We closed on the house on July 21st and I immediately started to get to work.<br />
<br />
We had four rooms total to repaint. When I say "we" I really mean "I" since Kristopher is not a good taper, painter and the paint fumes give him severe headaches. I however, seemed to be immune to it all. So we took his mom's room from aqua to "winsome lilac", her bathroom from hot pink/purple to "lead-cast" gray, and her 2nd room from light pink to "stony path" which is a light gray with the slightest hint of green. They all turned out beautifully, except for the fact that the last homeowner was pretty messy with her painting and you can see a slight line of the old color peeking through near the molding in each room. Painting the molding was not on my list and so, we'll have to deal with it for now. I also repainted the upstairs room (our office and my craft area) which was purple, to "rolling sea" blue. <span style="font-size: x-small;"><i> </i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Side note: Valspar's Hi-Def paint, the one with the
primer and color in one, is FANTASTIC. I only did one coat for each room
and then just touched up areas that were showing through. </i></span><br />
I didn't paint the ceilings so on some of the lower parts of the ceiling, you can still tell it used to be a playroom for two little girls. It's somewhat bright, but since the space was small I didn't want to make it too dark. So far that's <b>the</b> room to hang out in. Probably because it gets so cold.<br />
<br />
Now, we were going to try and move <u>this weekend</u>, the 13th but, it turns out the movers aren't available to start packing until next Monday, pushing the earliest moving date to Wednesday of next week. Then I would leave for New York (to see the sweet, adorable Hannah be baptized), that weekend. I don't think I want to leave the house, even if it's only for 3 days in such disarray. So, I think we will wait until I come back and maybe move some little things every day until then. At least, that will make the actual cost of hiring packers and movers a little cheaper. I was really excited to possibly sleep in my new home this weekend. We shall see, Kristopher and I are still discussing it.<br />
<br />
In addition to painting we have...<br />
<ul>
<li>replaced all the locks with Schlage locks which work so much better than the previously installed locks</li>
<li>removed the mantle and cut it in half with hopes of getting it back up soon</li>
<li>set up our cool Z-Wave deadbolt lock and thermostat (we can now control these devices form the Internet. Yes, we are geeks and we love it).</li>
<li>cleaned the house from top to bottom with the help of my wonderful friends Kayla and Sammy</li>
<li> mounted the TV and some of the speakers with the help of our friends Scott and Blake</li>
<li>had LUS Fiber installed! (yay for Internet!)</li>
</ul>
but we still need to...<br />
<ul>
<li>run all the network cable (some will be saved for winter)</li>
<li>run all the entertainment center wiring</li>
<li>fix a small hole in the front door</li>
<li>replace the weather stripping on the front & back doors (help?)</li>
<li>get the tile cleaned and re-sealed (Tuesday)</li>
<li>have LUS TV installed (Tuesday)</li>
<li>take care of any exterior work (most will probably wait until winter unless severe) </li>
<li>MOVE!</li>
</ul>
I'm so excited! I can't wait until it's all done so we can have a wonderful get together with our friends in our new house. A bunch of my family is already planning on coming down for Thanksgiving!!! Thank you to everyone who has helped us so far; we really really really appreciate it. Look out for more exciting news coming soon! It involves something sparkly. Mishyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17675989343753823166noreply@blogger.com11720 Kaliste Saloom Rd, Lafayette, LA 70508, USA30.170594 -92.0335932.8409975000000003 -132.4632805 57.5001905 -51.603905499999996tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7235672722176339911.post-67429430161746098692011-07-11T22:08:00.004-05:002011-07-11T22:08:59.901-05:00Closing Date Coming Soon!So it looks like we'll be closing on the house soon! I can't wait! The current owners will be moved out and out of the country (one of them has a job in Brazil) by this Wednesday! THIS WEDNESDAY! So all we are waiting on now is the paperwork. Yay!<br />
<br />
I can't wait to get to work on the house and start making it feel like home. It's been a long time coming and I'm excited for Kristopher, his mom and I to move into a house that will really be ours with enough room to accommodate the humans and the animals without feeling like we're going to trip over something. I've already brought up tons of paint chips; most of them for his mom. Her rooms are a priority to get painted first since they used to belong to two little girls and are currently painted really bright aqua and this candy purple color. Their bathroom is also half hot pink and half purple. It's kind of loud.<br />
<br />
In addition to that I want to replace the locks. No, it's not that I don't trust the current homeowners, I just don't like the type of locks they have on the doors. I want to put a dual-cylinder deadbolt on the front door and change up the deadbolts on the back doors. After that, I want to get the floors checked out and make sure that if they need sealant it's taken care of. I have no illusions that the dogs might have accidents and want to prevent any of that from seeping into the floor.<br />
<br />
I really do have a list of things to fix before we move in and I'm starting to get a schedule together of how we want to move in. I want to try not to do it all in one or two days, even if we have a moving company. I want to try and move the bedrooms first, probably with the help of some wonderful friends and make sure that mom is comfortable and set up in her rooms. Then, I'll having the packing/moving company come after everything else. This way there is no rush to get mom set up while a bunch other things are going on at once on the big moving day or she can go take a nap if she needs to when she gets tired.<br />
<br />
I'll keep you all posted!<br />
<br />
<br />Mishyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17675989343753823166noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7235672722176339911.post-64791935038500762852011-07-09T21:31:00.002-05:002011-07-09T21:31:46.701-05:00Wrist UpdateWell I had an appointment with my orthopedist the other day, Dr. Williams and he wants me to go see a hand specialist, Matt LeBlanc about my wrist. The one spot on my wrist that still hurts he's unsure of hence the new doctor. I hope Dr. LeBlanc can figure this out. I really miss being able to use my left wrist. You never really realize how much you do with your non-dominant hand until you can't use it.<br />
<br />
Hopefully I get a good diagnosis and the words surgery aren't mentioned. Keep your fingers crossed!Mishyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17675989343753823166noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7235672722176339911.post-49206087502398287262011-07-08T12:00:00.000-05:002011-07-09T21:45:08.193-05:00Google+ for MishySo I've finally gotten invited to use Google+ (as if I need another social network to spend my time on) and I have to say it's nice. Now as we all know I'm a pretty avid (read: addicted) Facebook user so I'm not sure if Google+ will be able to change that or not. I think the advantage that Google+ has over Facebook is that it's had time to see Facebook screw up.<br />
<br />
Anyhow, I now have all my Circles set up with all my little groups of friends that I can share with. It's very similar to having friend lists on Facebook if you use them. You can control the visibility of everything on your profile or that you post. Facebook lets you do this too but Google+ seems to be easier to figure out. It's nice that Google+ has privacy options built-in from the get-go so it's not all or nothing and separate tabs for profile info, posts, pictures, videos, +1's and Buzz items. It's pretty interesting. However, there's not many people to be social with right now since they are "throttling" their invites to avoid masses of people joining at once. I understand the reasoning but it makes it somewhat boring at times.<br />
<br />
I'm also writing this blog post in Blogger Drafts which gives me a preview of what the updated Blogger will look like. It pretty matches the look and feel of Google+ and the new GMail. Minimal, clean, a little boring. Even so, I like it.<br />
<br />
What would I like to see? Google Reader integration with Google+. Right now I have the Reader items that I share or like showing up in my Google Buzz feed and then those show up in the Buzz tab on my Google+ profile. I'd like an option though to +1 something from Reader or something that let's me post a link to said item from Reader to Google+ in the posts section. I'm sure it's all coming but that's just my thought. Also since Photos pulls from Picasa, I was expecting to be able to pull Videos from my YouTube account - not so, or I missed the option.<br />
<br />
What are your thoughts so far?<br />
<br />
Also, maybe it's just the journalism major in me, but seeing the terms: +1'ed, +1'ing is somewhat hitting a nerve. Anyone else or am I just weird?Mishyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17675989343753823166noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7235672722176339911.post-30377385161296730102011-07-05T13:55:00.000-05:002011-07-05T13:55:52.483-05:00New HappeningsThis post is going to be different. It's not going to talk about the past it's going to talk about the future... I know, it's a change, prepare yourself. In the beginning of the year I said I was going to try and blog more, I lied. I knew I wasn't. However, here I am, new design, although simple and just a standard template. Nothing fancy. Anyway, on to the new stuff shall we?<br />
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<b>New Job</b>! (sort of) - I went from being a contract employee to a full-time employee. I'm also the Project Manager now which means I get to try and keep everyone on schedule and make sure projects are completed in a timely manner. It's a pretty good fit for my organized self. Seriously, I love working at <a href="http://www.alienmarketing.com/">Alien Marketing</a>, I love the people I work with and the office I have. It's great and if you need a website, you know who to call! :)<br />
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<b>New Pains </b>- so I have something called Tenosynovitis DeQuervain's Syndrome. In short - tendonitis in my wrist, specifically the tendons that my left thumb uses. I've been going to occupational therapy at LaBorde Therapy for quite some time now. It's eating up lots of work hours which I feel guilty about but hopefully it gets better soon. I have a follow-up orthopedic appointment today, so hopefully it tells me something positive.<br />
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<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/MichelleLee52/TheStoryOfMishy?authkey=Gv1sRgCJjB56re_PHztAE#5625943702340225250" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmRiPvP8DrBHw4zHOX5R1Ra1fjdUPre7vXL7M2bw3AG7JeU6P0iRs5wSDI9-2HPOC87D-bUHyl-ZTGdU4-AZc0Mm-doSmqKa1eus3wYg-KeynAbO40e10cJE9jMtcesRI3EJb7O0fjS7x2/s288/0.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="281" /></a><b>New House </b>(almost) - I'm buying a house. It's gorgeous. It's only 10 minutes from our current location and it's big. Big enough to for me, Kristopher, his mom, our 4 dogs, 1 cat, 10 gallon fish tank and at least two of our future children. I'm totally excited about this and can't wait to move in. Hopefully we will be closing sometime in July and moved in by mid-August if all goes well.<br />
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<b>New Baby </b>- Okay, how many of you did I get? <b>Seriously</b>. It's not mine; it's my cousin's. A baby girl, Hannah Grace born on the 4th of July. She is super adorable people. Travis got me on Facetime to see baby Hannah in all her glory - she was sleeping, of course; but still just the sweetest thing I've seen this July. I don't think anything is going to top that.<br />
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<center><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/MichelleLee52/TheStoryOfMishy?authkey=Gv1sRgCJjB56re_PHztAE#5625943707851063362"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-e6YjIxfqzriumhIsnZFyCaJfOBiOPDlsgfkZpMnEHsbLl2v1vgz70yYrtASXysQRSw7lvl9ZJicSaWxfQLp3UJdGZUJlLH7SRb2HdgbjWBkG8gS1t-UH4xX2FW03y9UVZExNee3f3m08/s288/1.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="400" /></a></center><br />
Also my Godchildren are turning 1. Okay, one of them has turned 1 already, the other this weekend; they are only 2 weeks apart. They are walking and looking like toddlers and not babies already. Where did the time go? Where? I unfortunately did not make it to Rylee's birthday and I can't make it to Jayden's either but I made sure to spoil them both with plenty of gifts!<br />
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Life in Lafayette, LA is starting to pull itself together I think. I have a good feeling about it. It's only taken 3 years but I'm starting to go forward with happy memories and a smile on my face. There will always be pain in my heart from losing Mike but I just KNOW that it's going to be okay and I know he's happy for me too. I just do.Mishyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17675989343753823166noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7235672722176339911.post-83884439461841792042011-01-12T13:45:00.000-06:002011-01-12T13:45:48.131-06:002011 is Here!I really want to remember to blog more. I really am going to try in 2011 to do that. For now, here's a quick recap of my Christmas holiday.<br />
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Friend's Christmas - our friends the Randolph's hosted a little Christmas get together a few weeks before Christmas. We had a great time hanging out with everyone, eating food, drinking wine and of course, opening gifts. Sammy and Kayla got me a pretty awesome scrapbooking rolling tote organizer that I wanted. I think I did very well with gifts this year. Everyone seemed to be simply ecstatic with what I got them. It makes me feel good to see that joy and know that I am THAT good at finding the right gift for each person.<br />
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New York Christmas - it is always great to see my family. After some last-minute wrapping we jumped right into the festivities. Again we ate... a lot. We opened up presents, we laughed, we talked, there is no other way to describe what my family does when we get together than to just say - we have a great time. Christmas with both side of my family was just awesome. I received some wonderful gifts but I have to say the best gift of all was learning that Baby Yee will be arriving in July. That's right, we're starting on the next generation! My cousin Travis and his wife let everyone know on Christmas that they are expecting! I admit, I cried. I'm a huge sap.<br />
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Visiting Friends - I stopped to visit my best friend Annemarie's mom first. I have not seen her in over two years and it was great to sit down and catch up with her and finally introduce her to Kristopher. Next was to visit Kelly and my super-adorable-way-too-cute-for-words Godson, Jayden. We talked for HOURS. It was great. There is no better feeling than knowing that despite distance and lack of conversation, a true friendship always just picks up where it left off without skipping a beat. That's what it is like when I get together with Kelly. It's like I never left. Did I mention how cute Jayden is? He's getting so big! I love my munchkin.<br />
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Visiting Mikey - Of course I had to make a very special stop to visit Mikey Jr. As always my visit was a surprise. Seeing him grow just melts my heart. He is getting tall, he is losing baby teeth and adult teeth are all coming in - he has the cutest smile right now because of it. He's also starting to get too heavy to lift in the air every time I see him but that certainly won't stop be from trying. We talked a bit and then played some Wii Mario Kart (pretty nifty). Eventually I had to leave but I'm so glad that I got to see him again. Oh for the record he doesn't like Science and Music at school! He's such a chatterbox. I love him, I never stopped, it's a blessing to be able to still be a part of his life.<br />
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Lafayette Christmas - we were delayed in New York due to a snow storm and there was much shoveling that needed to be done but we eventually made it back to Lafayette and did Christmas with Kristopher's mom. She knitted me this amazing blue shrug cardigan. I love it. The yarn is also super soft yet very very warm. She also got me a purple craft bag. She has one and I always thought it was very nifty so she bought me one! I love it! Kristopher got some pants that he's been needing and some car mats for Layla. It was a perfect compliment since our buddy Blake had gotten him the trunk mat.<br />
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Oh and my sentimental part of the month? December 28th. Three years ago on that date, one of the most wonderful men I've ever had the pleasure of loving, proposed to me in Las Vegas. I still miss him dearly.<br />
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<img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_q4c6iBUh0YA/TC6Tu4YCrgI/AAAAAAAAHkw/AwAqMpL9d3g/Blog%20Signature.png" />Mishyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17675989343753823166noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7235672722176339911.post-69085942350329777122010-12-06T14:06:00.000-06:002010-12-06T14:06:59.321-06:00Holy December Batman!Newsflash: It's December. Already. The decade is coming to an end. Here are some highlights of what's going on.<br />
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My car is back. It looks beautiful. Quality Collision is the place to go when you need bodywork on your car done. I've used them three times now and each time Marilyn has come back looking brand spanking new. Highly recommended. Seriously. I mean it. Now if I could just figure out how to disable the cloaking device we'd be dandy.<br />
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My Christmas plans are made. I'll be in New York from the 23rd to the 27th. The schedule is hectic as always:<br />
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23rd - land, go to NYC, do tourist stuff (Rockefeller Center, Apple Store, Times Square, etc.), wrap all the presents I've been shipping to NY<br />
24th - Christmas with my mom's side of the family in Sugarloaf, NY<br />
25th - Church and Christmas with my dad's side of the family in Florida, NY<br />
26th - drive around town visiting friends<br />
27th - fly back to Lafayette<br />
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Oh boy. I'm excited and yet terribly frightened. I'm not as spry as I used to be. Which I know is funny coming from a 27-year-old but seriously... I wonder if I'm going to make it through that week. I am excited to get into the city again, it's been a while and I always love when I have someone with me who has never been there before. It's magical to watch them take it all in.<br />
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I also have to make my yearly stop at Michael's grave to say hello and update him on the happenings of my life. Holidays are hard without him... still. The colder weather in Lafayette has been pretty much matching my mood. Cold, sharp, crisp... of course it then warms up again and I wonder if I can ever take out my full-length coat prior to packing for NY...<br />
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Did I mention it was December already? Oh how time flies. Even when you aren't having fun.<br />
<img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_q4c6iBUh0YA/TC6Tu4YCrgI/AAAAAAAAHkw/AwAqMpL9d3g/Blog%20Signature.png" />Mishyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17675989343753823166noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7235672722176339911.post-92071855747783045772010-10-25T12:13:00.000-05:002010-10-25T12:13:41.265-05:00Dear Michael,Lately I've been missing you a lot. I've been thinking about us, about you, about me, about how much my life has changed since you've passed away. It's been more than two years now and while I have accepted it, there are some days where I can't believe it. Some days it feels like just yesterday when we were together holding hands, laughing together, feeling so much in love. It's so hard not having you here, not being able to hear your voice when I think I need it most. It literally tears me up inside and my heart physically aches like it never has before. It's like someone took half of my heart and tore it out leaving all the ends detached and hanging. I'm more emotional than I've ever been. Every sentimental moment in life or on a TV show or in a movie makes me tear up. I treasure all the little things in life so much more than I have before.<br />
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The holidays are especially hard. Traditions aren't supposed to change and I'm still adjusting to the new ones I'm creating. I remember us though... Halloween was always so much fun for us. We both enjoyed dressing up and partying and carving pumpkins. Thanksgiving was always a big celebration with your family... and then Christmas. Your favorite holiday of the entire year. The time of year when I don't think we were able to stay in one place for more than a few hours as we visited our families, ate food, opened presents and made memories. In short, <i>I miss you</i>.<br />
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I know I'm always going to miss you. There is no simple "getting over" someone who has had such a profound impact on my life. Instead you just become part of who I am now. I take our experiences and your words and use them to help me guide my life. Some days it would just be easier to have you here but I know you are in a place without suffering and without pain and it would be selfish of me to want you to leave that. I've noticed parts of you that have stuck with me, such as words, phrases or saying you used to use all the time. Those things are comforting.<br />
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Sometimes I do wonder what my life would be like now if you had lived. Our engagement party was just two weeks away, we were in the middle of planning an amazing wedding, you were on your way to becoming an accountant and all the pieces were falling into place. We had it all planned out... even the things we didn't want to talk about. You told me you expected me to go on if I ever lost you and I told you the same. I never thought I'd have to live by those words, I never imagined it would be so hard to keep that promise to you but I have. I have gone on and I have found another who loves me. It doesn't end the struggles that come during the year although each year I deal with it better and better...<br />
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So, as I go through this cycle of sadness and longing, I pray to God that he continue to give me the strength I need to keep on going and take every day one at a time. I pray that he continues to bless me with the knowledge and reassurance that everything will be okay. Mostly I thank God that He has given me another person in my life who seems to care for me as much as you have. I am quite the lucky girl to have his love, support and understanding.<br />
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Love Always & Forever,<br />
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P.S. To all my friends, family and those around me whom I love dearly. Please excuse me for the next few weeks. I am not myself, do not take my actions personally or lack of actions as I tend to just shut down when I feel like this. I'll be back to myself soon. XoXo<br />
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To my new readers... Michael and I dated for five years starting in 2003. In 2008 we were engaged, 6 months later he passed away from brain tumor. This prompted my move from New York to Louisiana in order to gain a fresh perspective on life. It's been two years but as you can see, sometimes it's still difficult. Thank you for reading.Mishyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17675989343753823166noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7235672722176339911.post-33791699023509417772010-10-05T23:26:00.000-05:002010-10-05T23:26:49.393-05:00Lafayette is Out to Get MeI'm convinced, someone in Lafayette seriously doesn't like me. Someone or something... let's rewind a little bit shall we?<br />
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One year ago, September 2009 - We go out to Abbeville for dinner and on the way home, driving around 40mph down Johnston Street (or whatever it's called in between Lafayette and Abbeville), a very suicidal and big raccoon decided it was going to dart across the street at the last moment. Needless to say, the raccoon didn't make it, it didn't have insurance and my bumper and left fog light and some other things up there got busted. Damage cost around $2000 with me paying $500 and Farm Bureau picking up about $1500.<br />
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Four months ago, May 2010 - We leave the house one afternoon to drive Kristopher's cousin to the airport. We decide to take my car which is parked out front by the mailbox on the grass. Well, we get to the car and what do you know... the entire driver's side is scraped from the back door up to the quarter-panel. Oh... and I'm missing a mirror. Fantastic. Okay well I was in the car this time... but gee that's a lot of damage for a car that was not even moving. Did I mention that there wasn't a note left behind? Damage around $3500 with me paying $500 again and Farm Bureau picking up about $3000.<br />
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Four WEEKS ago, September 3, 2010 - I left for work from my house just before 2pm. I stopped at the stop sign at the end of the block as always. There was another car approaching the stop sign from the right but I stopped already, I was first, I continued on thinking they were going to stop. Well he hit the passenger side of my car. Pretty hard. I banged my head on the side of the car. Everyone was okay for the most part and luckily Kristopher was driving behind me so I wasn't alone. The insurance companies still have no idea who's fault it is. (I blame him, he was driving with an expired license and pictures show it looks like he clearly hit me.) Damage this time? $4500, $500 more from me and $4000 more from Farm Bureau.<br />
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This last time is special though, I started getting neck pains and upper back aches - more painful than my usual tension from work. I finally made an appointment with Pinhook Chiropractic. Three days before my appointment, my <i>lower</i> back just gave up on me. I was in so much pain. I'm talking about, can't walk pain. I'm talking about, can't stand up on my own pain. I'm talking about, needing Kristopher to literally lift me up and help me back to bed pain.<br />
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Thankfully the chiropractic treatments are working and I'm covered up to $5,000 through my auto insurance company. I have to go for an adjustment 3 times a week for 12 weeks and ice my back when the pain is too much.<br />
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I'm hoping that this is the last time we will have to go through this with Marilyn. Plus, I've really got to calm my nerves while driving now. <br />
<img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_q4c6iBUh0YA/TC6Tu4YCrgI/AAAAAAAAHkw/AwAqMpL9d3g/Blog%20Signature.png" />Mishyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17675989343753823166noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7235672722176339911.post-1585786930547356402010-09-26T00:09:00.000-05:002010-09-26T00:09:43.712-05:00A Weekend in SeattleRecently, Kristopher and I spent a long weekend in a city near Seattle visiting a long-time friend. This was the first time we've ever met he and his wife although we've played games with him online for nearly 6 years! Well, let me tell you, we had a great time.<br />
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It was so nice to get away from the weekend and away from responsibilities and obligations. This was a true getaway, doing something we wanted to do. No birthday parties to attend, no wedding, no family function, just getting out and visiting friends.<br />
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Of course our hosts spoiled us (not that we didn't enjoy it) and I enjoyed making friends with their three cats. Ozy, Dante and Miyu are wonderful cats. They are quite friendly and each have their own personality. Of course, it made me miss my Lucy-cat while we were gone but that's okay.<br />
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Perhaps the best treat was the trip up Mt. Rainier. Even though it was overcast, we were able to see some amazing views. The weather was also nice and cool and I wasn't too sure I wanted to return to Louisiana after that with all the heat and humidity.<br />
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If we ever go back, I definitely want to do the typical Seattle tourist stuff like the Space Needle and the market. I guess that just gives us more than one reason to visit the Seattle area again! Here are some pictures from our visit.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBSH5_MhMbqXNSHxmbVKKhH5-wYtQVr3yT9jqUBcR4nfaAkACjLs9E7Djpf0IWKzMPJ5fOhtqWiWv2u-Njxf56aH3bL__ccazREzd2Oe0fofOQEwZTNUYTrE5AHRlYYg9brwh0C2mXvw9r/s1600/IMG_0056.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBSH5_MhMbqXNSHxmbVKKhH5-wYtQVr3yT9jqUBcR4nfaAkACjLs9E7Djpf0IWKzMPJ5fOhtqWiWv2u-Njxf56aH3bL__ccazREzd2Oe0fofOQEwZTNUYTrE5AHRlYYg9brwh0C2mXvw9r/s320/IMG_0056.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><i>Waiting to eat breakfast!</i></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHhUpMHQfh6kykeeCmW861HVUAgm1rUWQZyDI1ovktxyLOWEzTfpdifJyoTOuNslgOLZDQuXy8_mtrQEdyQ4c4YggS-rkRlcedAK6EjyXeDRi2h4A2O_0jHPcfSfozJL5iIZh3H1_afWe5/s1600/IMG_0064.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHhUpMHQfh6kykeeCmW861HVUAgm1rUWQZyDI1ovktxyLOWEzTfpdifJyoTOuNslgOLZDQuXy8_mtrQEdyQ4c4YggS-rkRlcedAK6EjyXeDRi2h4A2O_0jHPcfSfozJL5iIZh3H1_afWe5/s320/IMG_0064.jpg" width="239" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><i>Waterfall at Mt. Rainier</i></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS9LCousVFmzKRJyZlW99_3seKQiC9L1z9O-cTn1n28j5NOZlMack7t0EcbILZBoNKABACY9rMgJ2d6MyBxELz2uj1EPGnDVDs7XuDA95BZDx8WVShNKRl4Vm0vLZh2ZPBsuGVKYGfBteJ/s1600/IMG_2334.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS9LCousVFmzKRJyZlW99_3seKQiC9L1z9O-cTn1n28j5NOZlMack7t0EcbILZBoNKABACY9rMgJ2d6MyBxELz2uj1EPGnDVDs7XuDA95BZDx8WVShNKRl4Vm0vLZh2ZPBsuGVKYGfBteJ/s320/IMG_2334.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><i>Kristopher and I at Mt. Rainier</i></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7JZNxk-2L8RnHqnlnVYQYTA5f6TLpfQ6COO-E7C96Ax2P9USDtlyxx0d9AE4sMmn3PyIHdV9HzQXFrRBIpKx5kuryB1JG9LcOEm4iribP-X2IL5u1kSxisgulEteX_bCgqwcg0vWJoo_F/s1600/IMG_2383.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7JZNxk-2L8RnHqnlnVYQYTA5f6TLpfQ6COO-E7C96Ax2P9USDtlyxx0d9AE4sMmn3PyIHdV9HzQXFrRBIpKx5kuryB1JG9LcOEm4iribP-X2IL5u1kSxisgulEteX_bCgqwcg0vWJoo_F/s320/IMG_2383.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><i>Wildflowers at Paradise, Mt. Rainier</i></div><br />
<img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_q4c6iBUh0YA/TC6Tu4YCrgI/AAAAAAAAHkw/AwAqMpL9d3g/Blog%20Signature.png" />Mishyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17675989343753823166noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7235672722176339911.post-30446226287515204722010-09-20T14:13:00.000-05:002010-09-20T14:13:40.382-05:00Blog Posts Coming Soon!I'm sorry I've been away from blog world. I promise to get back to it as soon as possible! Look for upcoming posts on:<br />
<ul><li>A Weekend in Seattle</li>
<li>Another Day, Another Accident for Marilyn</li>
<li>Grandma Celebrates 80!</li>
<li>2 Years in Lafayette</li>
<li>1 Year at Alien Marketing</li>
</ul><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_q4c6iBUh0YA/TC6Tu4YCrgI/AAAAAAAAHkw/AwAqMpL9d3g/Blog%20Signature.png" />Mishyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17675989343753823166noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7235672722176339911.post-48663308150458745272010-08-12T22:16:00.001-05:002010-08-12T22:17:18.711-05:00Falling Asleep with Aunt MishyNew York was filled with great blessings for me during my last trip. In addition to seeing my <a href="http://mishylee.blogspot.com/2010/07/wedding-to-remember.html">sister get married</a> to a great guy, visiting with <a href="http://mishylee.blogspot.com/2010/08/m-air-hockey-1-1.html">Mikey, Jr.</a>, and spending <a href="http://mishylee.blogspot.com/2010/08/visiting-family.html">time with family</a>, I got to see my Godson for the first time.<br />
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Kristopher and I headed out to Queens to visit my best friend Kelly and finally meet Jayden. Even though we only stayed for a few hours, it was the best few hours of the day. EVER. Jayden is beautiful and I love him already. As soon as I walked through the door, Kelly came straight to me with the baby, "Here you go, you hold on to him while I finish cooking." I laughed as I could not imagine Kelly greeting me any other way. I sure have missed her. I could not have been more delighted to have that baby just plopped right in my arms. I didn't want to put him down either.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3u9k0SB8Me0EQPCzkAKfM0_YKJflAN6q202XWLICp2CeD-3WljvK7iS2z-jm6125J-IddHeCd6pFS0VkNOxQOXB8vfKmn0dScFQsJa9OUtuUpeBGVGi_pdXWupEGeTr8nRqc0I499KOau/s1600/IMG_2309.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3u9k0SB8Me0EQPCzkAKfM0_YKJflAN6q202XWLICp2CeD-3WljvK7iS2z-jm6125J-IddHeCd6pFS0VkNOxQOXB8vfKmn0dScFQsJa9OUtuUpeBGVGi_pdXWupEGeTr8nRqc0I499KOau/s320/IMG_2309.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>To add to the perfect moment, Jayden fell asleep in my arms. Kelly had told me he was being cranky all day and had been up since 7:45am and refused to nap or go back to sleep. Well after me standing there staring at him for 20 minutes while rocking back and forth, the sweet child was out like a light. I still didn't want to put him down. Kelly and I got to catch up a lot just talking about our lives and random things. We always talk more in person than on the phone or online and being apart all this time didn't change that. It was like we just picked up where we left off; that's how I know she's one of my best friends.<br />
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Eventually Jayden did wake up and I gave him a bottle. Kristopher burped him (I figured he was a pro since he's done this before), he got a diaper change and then... back in Aunt Mishy's arms for a little while longer. When he fell back asleep I handed him over to Kelly who held on to him for a few minutes before putting him in his bassinet.<br />
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Seeing Jayden sleeping soundly and the look of exhaustion on Kelly's face I told Kristopher it was time to leave so she could get some rest. I didn't want to leave them but I know they both needed some rest.<br />
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The entire time there all Kristopher and Kelly could tell me was that I needed a baby to love because I'm just the natural mothering type. I couldn't agree more but we still need to get some things in order before we can even think about having a baby. In due time...<br />
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<img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_q4c6iBUh0YA/TC6Tu4YCrgI/AAAAAAAAHkw/AwAqMpL9d3g/Blog%20Signature.png" />Mishyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17675989343753823166noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7235672722176339911.post-79706931624309744622010-08-02T11:41:00.000-05:002010-08-02T11:41:00.268-05:00Visiting FamilyWhile I was in New York I took the time to spend some extra time with some of my family. I went and visited my Uncle Marty up in Chester, NY. It's supposed to only a 1 hour to 1.5 hour drive but we hit traffic. I think it took almost 3 hours and we were SO HUNGRY by the time we arrived at my uncle's house. Lucky for us he had food waiting! BBQ ribs and stir fried noodles. Yummy!!! We spent a good amount of time talking and catching up during lunch and then headed out to do more yammering out on the deck. It was a beautiful day and it felt nice to be able to sit outside with family without melting.<br />
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At around 6pm, Kristopher and I continued our journey over to my cousins' house. Travis and Phyllis recently bought a house and since we weren't around for the house warming party we decided to go check it out. You can say we got a private tour! The house is beautiful and I couldn't be happier for the two of them! They make a great couple and deserve all the happiness in the world. We also got to meet Stella, their beagle which was very exciting. Kristopher and Stella managed to become best friend really quickly. <br />
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After being treated to a delicious baked ziti meal with meatballs, salad and garlic bread, they drove us to the church for another private tour! Let me tell you, the church is beautiful. It's small but at the same time very inviting and I think a great fit for Travis or Reverend Yee as he's called.<br />
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Lucky for us the drive back to Long Island that night was quick and pain free! I love my family and I'm so happy that I got to spend some extra time with a small part of them.<br />
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<img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_q4c6iBUh0YA/TC6Tu4YCrgI/AAAAAAAAHkw/AwAqMpL9d3g/Blog%20Signature.png" />Mishyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17675989343753823166noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7235672722176339911.post-86274003974290979012010-08-01T22:48:00.000-05:002010-08-01T22:48:13.601-05:00M&M Air Hockey 1-1So I got to see one of my favorite little boys while I was in New York during this last trip. I was so tired the day after Laura's wedding I wasn't sure how I was going to do it. I had woken up at 5:30am Saturday and did not go to bed until 4:00am Sunday, only to wake up at 9:00am Sunday for brunch. After brunch I headed over to see Mikey, Jr.!!!<br />
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It is always such a treat to be able to visit with Mikey; even if it's only for a few hours. He never knows when I'm coming but Mike's family does and I don't mind. The pure joy I get to see on his surprised face every time I walk in is worth it. It just shows me how much he still cares about me and it warms my heart to know that he loves me as much as I still love him.<br />
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After getting a huge hug, we talked for a bit. He's doing pretty well in school and going into the 3rd grade next year. My how time flies, I remember attending his pre-school graduation like it was yesterday but now... THIRD grade! I gave him a little gift that I got him, a gift card for his vacation to Disney in a few weeks. I figured he would enjoy being able to go around Disney World and "buy" things - toys, food, souvenirs. Hopefully he has a good time.<br />
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Mikey then wanted to show me the air hockey table he got for Christmas and we played two games. I won the first one (he was pretty upset because he said boys are not supposed to lose to girls!) and he won the second one so we high-fived and called it a tie. He talked about Mike and I was happy to see it was in a joyful remembering kind of way and not in a sad or depressed way. In a way I guess you can say we reminisced a little bit, talking about the way daddy used to laugh and how much we miss him. After air hockey we played Super Mario Bros. on the Wii which was pretty fun. I'm such a sucker for anything Mario-related.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgllkWWmtZRt98cxgH_U4QgRjndj3D6ZgT1KDfVi1hSDTZxVsFYmbA1JBpjDH4sQHhdx39YKCxE3mPq_emg-dtjTKrbrN4UMjulB2CB7rcAnDpyZICiKtw9_JtOqA9k9XK9bOmFjRjeT4A3/s1600/IMG_0126.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgllkWWmtZRt98cxgH_U4QgRjndj3D6ZgT1KDfVi1hSDTZxVsFYmbA1JBpjDH4sQHhdx39YKCxE3mPq_emg-dtjTKrbrN4UMjulB2CB7rcAnDpyZICiKtw9_JtOqA9k9XK9bOmFjRjeT4A3/s320/IMG_0126.jpg" /></a>Then his cousins arrived and wanted to go in the pool. Mikey asked me to go with him but I took that as my cue to leave since I still had family at the house. I got a big hug and a kiss and best of all... we took a picture. He was so cute because he dug out his Nintendo DS so he could take his own picture to have.<br />
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It's a blessing to know that even though Michael is no longer on Earth with us, Mikey and I still share such a close bond that spans not just time but distance. Thanks Michael, having Mikey in my life is one of the best gifts you've ever shared with me. We love and miss you so much! <br />
<img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_q4c6iBUh0YA/TC6Tu4YCrgI/AAAAAAAAHkw/AwAqMpL9d3g/Blog%20Signature.png" />Mishyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17675989343753823166noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7235672722176339911.post-87561014187766905642010-07-30T11:40:00.001-05:002010-07-30T11:40:00.738-05:00New York FoodOne of the best things about coming up to New York is being able to satisfy all my New York food cravings. Now there is nothing wrong with the food down South, it's just a different selection of food so I can't help but miss my favorites.<br />
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Pizza - I don't care who you are or what you say but NY pizza and pizza from the South are two entirely different things. They say it's all in the water and any pizza shop outside of New York that makes pizza that tastes like it's from New York; ships the water. True story! I promise!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbGMcs3pQvL2spNWCA-A-EPey_t0Bruuf54g_nEF4xsHnUHyYHXvdlVgWm2GZ2SaJxESn0BWc9M-ZayBuqAvfQ-oi0SD2jTWpI27A1cLZvBIOo8zyqsEEfeN5GIduzwn1iTLvlETbN37HZ/s1600/IMG_2258.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbGMcs3pQvL2spNWCA-A-EPey_t0Bruuf54g_nEF4xsHnUHyYHXvdlVgWm2GZ2SaJxESn0BWc9M-ZayBuqAvfQ-oi0SD2jTWpI27A1cLZvBIOo8zyqsEEfeN5GIduzwn1iTLvlETbN37HZ/s320/IMG_2258.jpg" /></a></div>Chinese Food - Canton City Inn is fabulous but it does not come anywhere close to Fortune Wheel and there is not one Chinese restaurant in Lafayette that serves dim sum. I've been going to Fortune Wheel for as long as I can remember living in New york and it is still delicious 20 years later. Some of my favorites include salt and pepper fried squid, salt baked crab, squab (yes that's pigeon; get over it), roast duck, shark fin soup and several types of noodles. Dim sum foods that I love are shrimp in a blanket, fried dough in a blanket, shrimp ANYTHING... who am I kidding, it's all delicious.<br />
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Garden Gourmet - Deli in Garden City. They serve all types of sandwiches, wraps, buffet items, pasta salads, etc. but what I really miss is the salad bar. You get your choice of greens (4 different types available), a main selection (usually your meats), and then 4 additional selections which include all your different cheeses, fruits, tortilla strips, eggs, bacon, vegetables... all tossed with your selection of dressing - and there are at least 10 different kinds to choose from. It is so delicious! I also made sure to stop by DC3 and get some tri-color pasta salad (tri-color pasta, fresh mozzarella cheese cubes and peppers coated in pesto).<br />
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Family Cooking - of course nothing beats some home-made food. Dad has cooked linguine with clams, home made Caesar salad, barbecued chicken and ribs, salmon, king crab legs, sweet corn, egg noodles with meatballs, and linguine with sausage and peppers. We've also been treated to baked ziti at my cousin Travis' house and some stir fried noodles at my Uncle Marty's house.<br />
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We've also had sangria, pineapples, strawberries and flying saucers from Carvel for dessert along with all the food from the wedding and plenty of red wine!<br />
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<img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_q4c6iBUh0YA/TC6Tu4YCrgI/AAAAAAAAHkw/AwAqMpL9d3g/Blog%20Signature.png" />Mishyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17675989343753823166noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7235672722176339911.post-47449528531973340022010-07-29T11:27:00.000-05:002010-07-29T11:27:48.830-05:00A Wedding to Remember!Wow, where do I start? First of all, Congratulations to Mr. & Mrs. Peter Sohl!!!! I wish my sister, Laura, and my brother-in-law, Peter all the happiness in the world as they start their new married life together!<br />
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Kristopher and I arrived in NY after a two-day drive on Wednesday (21st). The drive was relatively easy with minimal traffic and lucky for me Kristopher did all the driving. I did offer to drive but he never accepted which was fine with me. However, let it be clear that I did not <i>make</i> him drive the entire way to New York.<br />
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So Thursday was prep day - Kristopher got a much-needed hair cut with Dean at my old salon - Curl Up & Dye. I was so relieved to get my clean-cut looking Kristopher back! It was also great catching up with Dean again; apparently I really missed my hairdresser. After that we headed back to my parent's house and then the women left for <a href="http://www.fantasticspany.com/">Fantastic Spa</a> for manicures and pedicures. It was nice to get out with just my mom and my sister. Dinner followed afterward at Fortune Wheel where we met up with Lars and Anna (dad's colleagues from Sweden).<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjCSRcf7okWKhUAvFPQ-qEfcxTyij9fetxSg6JbO0KlYS31HBaWPC9IV9ysvB4wws9TR13s7c2th7nPGRmKWxbyz6TdMq9ij_9P09-f_vp1T8WGWQfzX_DhYrSvL4GQUkKRLwz3mBLDb1X/s1600/IMG_2034.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjCSRcf7okWKhUAvFPQ-qEfcxTyij9fetxSg6JbO0KlYS31HBaWPC9IV9ysvB4wws9TR13s7c2th7nPGRmKWxbyz6TdMq9ij_9P09-f_vp1T8WGWQfzX_DhYrSvL4GQUkKRLwz3mBLDb1X/s320/IMG_2034.jpg" /></a>Friday was relatively easy despite some last minute worries about Laura's Maid of Honor. It was rehearsal day which didn't start until 6:45pm. Laura had a mini freak-out because some of the bridal party were late but all in all the rehearsal was relaxing. My cousin Travis, who officiated the ceremony, really did a great job of making the rehearsal fun and serious at the same time. The entire time during the rehearsal though I was texting with Laura's MoH, Betty. Betty had missed her plane and was going through hell getting the next flight out. Everything under the sun was trying to prevent her from making it to her BFF's wedding! Mechanical problems, tornado watch, thunderstorms... you name it. Well Betty did make it to the wedding. She arrived in NY at 4am and didn't bother sleeping before coming to the house on Saturday morning ready for hair and make up. She was an amazing support and did not once complain about being tired on my sister's big day. Laura is so lucky to have her as a friend.<br />
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Saturday - there is not much to say. Everything went wonderfully and beautifully. Everyone looked amazing, the bride looked gorgeous. The groom teared up watching his bride walked down the aisle, the church was PACKED, Travis did a great job with the ceremony and the reception was tons of fun. Dancing, tons of food, great live band... it would take me forever to give you all the details. I was up for practically 24 hours by the time I went to bed at 4pm. The fun, of course, didn't end there... we went to Fortune Wheel the next day for dim sum at 11:00am.<br />
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My only complaint - it was the hottest day of the week and the few hours we were out in the sun taking pictures was enough to make me sweat out 10 lbs. (Well I wished it were that easy but it felt like it.) It was so hot I didn't even drink alcohol that day. Water, water, water, two glasses of champagne for toasting and then back to more water.<br />
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What a wonderful weekend!<br />
<img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_q4c6iBUh0YA/TC6Tu4YCrgI/AAAAAAAAHkw/AwAqMpL9d3g/Blog%20Signature.png" />Mishyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17675989343753823166noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7235672722176339911.post-28791046512365336522010-07-16T12:00:00.000-05:002010-07-16T12:00:02.057-05:00Potato Scrapbook Time!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4oWS33NfBLPwp83u4RA2xJIsJRt3sDFwnhTT7CCUivbRDotsSptNWPzc-qdcRjgBMHahFUHi4O_yFzW4QlsYdVAnrg9LVBeHVuNtVUU9LRFJB9hEALS0aOYzJ6Xss2mfKlow4v9a1WKu5/s1600/photo+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4oWS33NfBLPwp83u4RA2xJIsJRt3sDFwnhTT7CCUivbRDotsSptNWPzc-qdcRjgBMHahFUHi4O_yFzW4QlsYdVAnrg9LVBeHVuNtVUU9LRFJB9hEALS0aOYzJ6Xss2mfKlow4v9a1WKu5/s320/photo+2.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>So on Monday we had two special guests for dinner - our friend Chris and Potato! Potato's parents went to see the newest Twilight movie along with Chris' Mrs. Anyway, we had fajitas and watching Potato eat a plain tortilla really made me laugh. He loved it. We also played music and watched Potato dance which was very entertaining. By the way, he also finds Kristopher to be hilarious. If there was anything Kristopher was good at that evening it was making Potato laugh over and over again. After dinner, we decided to get out of our house because it was so hot and head over to Chris' nicely air conditioned place to hang out for a while until the other adults got back.<br />
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I loved the idea of being able to spend more quality time with the little guy and grabbed some scrapbooking pages and my new tote on the way out the door. Although the little man admittedly did not seem very interested in my arts & crafts time; he did paste a few pieces down on the page and move a few pieces that were already pasted down. He had more fun rearranging my scrapbooking tote than he did making the page. It was pretty cute. He took out all the markers and then would put them all away. Then he'd move on to all the fancy scissors - take them all out and put them all away. I didn't even have to worry about him uncapping the markers and wreaking havoc on the coffee table or obsess that he might cut himself with the scissors - he just wasn't interested.<br />
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Anyhow, I don't have a picture of the page we made - but I made sure his <a href="http://kayla-randolph.blogspot.com/2010/07/potato-partieswhile-mommas-out.html">momma took one for me</a>!<br />
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The rest of the night I was trying to get Potato to say, "Aunt Mishy" and I think I got him to say it once. It was more like "At Mmmshy" but at least I could tell he was trying to copy what I was saying. There is hope yet! He's already got, "I love you," down pat so we just have to add the Aunt Mishy part and we are good to go!<br />
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<img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_q4c6iBUh0YA/TC6Tu4YCrgI/AAAAAAAAHkw/AwAqMpL9d3g/Blog%20Signature.png" />Mishyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17675989343753823166noreply@blogger.com0