Hodgepodge

1. "Like" Rosenberry Rooms on FB and they will donate $1 to JDRF. I lost my Aunt to juvenile diabetes so it is a cause close to my heart:

http://www.facebook.com/RosenberryRooms?v=wall

2. I'm headed to Wolfgang's Steakhouse tonight with my sweet husband. It's my favorite steakhouse in the city. We've had a rough few weeks dealing with some very difficult family issues (please keep his family in your prayers) and we are so excited to get a night out together! He is also taking me to the top of the Empire State Building tonight. We've lived here for 3 years and I've NEVER been! So excited! 

3. I am having the hardest time selecting our Christmas card photo. I mean they give you 200 images of your child and I'm supposed to pick ONE? =) Thanks to all my twitter friends that helped pick out J's outfit. He looked adorable.

4. A friend insisted I should do my duty and try out the Best Chocolate Cake in the world. She sent me this link and I feel like I should listen to her. I still haven't done it...what's wrong with me?

5. This is a great article for new NYC Moms via Mommy Poppins, one of my favorite NYC Mom resource.

6. Are you excited about Halloween? I can't wait to share J's costume with you. You are going to die! It is pretty funny!

7. I've been doing a lot of research lately on train tables. Does anyone have one that you just LOVE? Santa and I have been in discussion that J should get one for Christmas. What are your other favorite toys for an almost TWO year old! 

8. Girl Mamas, check out Mac & Co on Zuily today! They also have Little Giraffe and Halo Sleepsacks! : http://tinyurl.com/298c4jf

9.Have you signed up to win 50% off your TOTAL order from InvitesNow? You seriously could save hundreds of dollars if you ordered your Christmas cards, baby announcements or invitations for a party! Order all your Christmas presents!  Click here to sign up: http://magnoliasmarriageandmanhattan.blogspot.com/2010/10/invitesnow-stationery-giveaway.html

10. We went apple and pumpkin picking in Chester, NJ on Sunday. The weather could not have been more perfect and it was such a great excuse to get out of the city. Want to see my cute little guy? Ok, how about a couple (or 11 pictures of our trip....enjoy!)

A Little of This and a Little of That

1)  One of my good friends, K, got engaged on Friday! We met in high school, went to college together, she became my little sister in KD and now we party together each year in our Mardi Gras Organization. I love her to pieces and am so glad she found D. They are great together and I wish them a lifetime of happiness. They will be getting married in December at the same church A and I were married in...almost 3 years ago. She will also have her reception at the same place I had mine. I can't wait to celebrate with them! Let the parties begin!

2) My sweet little boy is sick again. We have had a rough 6 months filled with ear infections and stomach bugs. This time it is his stomach. I just can't seem to figure out what is going on here.He was well for 2 weeks, but prior to that he had this same thing for a week. He's running around like his normal wild man self, he hasn't run a fever, but we are going on a week of...well to put it somewhat ladylike...the runs. We went to the doc on Monday and he checked out great. I was worried about his ears again, but they are clear. I dropped off the 2nd "sample" this morning so they can test for a few things. (If you have ever had the pleasure of collecting a sample...well let me tell you...not the most pleasant experience, but anything for my little guy. ) Hopefully we'll get to the bottom of this soon. The doc really wasn't sure what was going on. He ruled out some bad stuff based on blood results, so that is good. We're off whole milk for now (drinking lactaid) and we're taking probiotics 2 times a day per Dr. J. Have any of you experienced anything like this with your little ones? I feel like I'm missing something here and it is driving me bonkers.

3) Moms, check out this great article on stain removal from Stroller Traffic.

4) A friend emailed me today and wants to throw a horse themed 1st bday party. I sent her these links:

http://celebrationsathome.blogspot.com/2010/04/custom-inspiration-board-horse-theme.html

http://a1weddinginvitations.net/images/blank%20childrens%20birthday%20invitations%20pony%202238.jpg

http://www.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://www.birthdaydirect.com/images/brown-horse-mylar-balloon2.png&imgrefurl=http://www.birthdaydirect.com/horse-shape-brown-with-black-mane-supershape-foil-balloon-1-p-2450.html&usg=__9kDNWZ82wpsn3r6ubzHpgA88CI0=&h=350&w=350&sz=83&hl=en&start=76&sig2=9xsinLh7gWvtsK-7C0BSJg&itbs=1&tbnid=9N28OFj-M5UijM:&tbnh=120&tbnw=120&prev=/images%3Fq%3Dhorse%2Bbirthday%2Bparty%26start%3D72%26hl%3Den%26sa%3DN%26gbv%3D2%26ndsp%3D18%26tbs%3Disch:1&ei=HdAPTJH7LNCLnQfr1PG1DQ

http://www.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2458/3804911129_b1ebf7ae81.jpg&imgrefurl=http://www.flickr.com/photos/angelinacupcake/3804911129/&usg=__6sQhVyfl43nUKGiJ9Gb1yTCYfn0=&h=500&w=375&sz=125&hl=en&start=68&sig2=8Q-_lgxX-iiAXKI7BHs93g&itbs=1&tbnid=a0EwZp3h1m4RqM:&tbnh=130&tbnw=98&prev=/images%3Fq%3Dhorse%2Bbirthday%2Bparty%26start%3D54%26hl%3Den%26sa%3DN%26gbv%3D2%26ndsp%3D18%26tbs%3Disch:1&ei=CNAPTKD3NsnZnAfH1qSsDQ

http://www.etsy.com/listing/48688158/10-birthday-party-favors-horse-head?ref=sr_gallery_26&ga_search_query=horse+favors&ga_search_type=handmade&ga_page=&includes[]=tags&includes[]=title

http://www.etsy.com/listing/48254018/barnyard-favor-tags?ref=sr_gallery_10&ga_search_query=horse+favors&ga_search_type=handmade&ga_page=2&includes[]=tags&includes[]=title

http://www.etsy.com/listing/46187548/lil-buckaroo-embellishments-scrapbooking?ref=sr_gallery_18&ga_search_query=horse+favors&ga_search_type=handmade&ga_page=3&includes[]=tags&includes[]=title

http://www.etsy.com/listing/44884472/a-dozen-horse-head-lollipops?ref=sr_gallery_33&ga_search_query=horse+favors&ga_search_type=handmade&ga_page=3&includes[]=tags&includes[]=title

http://www.etsy.com/listing/44788468/farm-animals-favor-bag-toppers-set-of?ref=sr_gallery_5&ga_search_query=horse+favors&ga_search_type=handmade&ga_page=4&includes[]=tags&includes[]=title

http://www.etsy.com/listing/40301427/down-on-the-farm-birthday-invitation?ref=v1_other_1

http://www.shop4it.biz/s~q-horse+birthday+party+theme.aspx

 

Ok, that is all you get for now. The little guy just woke up and he doesn't sound happy!

Random

1) My 31 Show is going to be closed out tonight or tomorrow. If you still want to shop, do so now! 

http://www.mythirtyone.com/shop/eventhome.aspx?eventId=E180181&from=DIRECTLINK

Thanks to everyone that purchased something. I hope you love it!

2) One of my friend's entered her son in a contest to win a free outfit. Do her a favor and vote number 23 by sending an email to bellamia@centurytel.net. You can see him here.

Heading to a Junior League mtg, more later...

 

Misc Hodgepodge

We've experienced the circle of life this past week. Saturday A's cousin/J's Godfather got engaged to a fabulous girl in Paris! A friend of mines Grandfather died last Wednesday. A friend's healthy baby girl was born on Thursday. Another friends healthy baby girl was born on Friday. Last night we lost a wonderful family friend to stage 4 lung cancer. My heart is full of happiness and sadness this week. Please keep all of these families in your prayers.


What have we been up to? A's parents were in town Sat-Tues and then Baby J's Godmother and one of my best friends was in town this past weekend. We had a great time with everyone!

Baby J decided to not honor daylight savings time in the morning. My perfect 7pm-7am sleeper decided to wake up at 5am, 5:45am, etc the past few weeks. The past two days we are finally back to 7am, but I am no early bird and those mornings were killing me. His top two teeth are almost in so I'm sure that had something to do with it to.

What else is he up to? He is the cutest thing in the entire world, but he is the reason for my lack of blogging. He's 10 months old today and he is into EVEYRTHING! He is crawling, cruising and standing on his own for about 15-30 seconds. I feel like those first steps are coming soon. He has a great personality and smiles so much. He loves to go for long strolls and he is OBSCESSED with Daisy. The two of them together melts my heart. He'll be ONE in two months !

I'm looking forward to Thanksgiving. We are staying in the city and A's sister is coming to stay with us. We are going to watch the balloons be inflated in Central Park and go to the parade on Thursday! So fun! Are you doing anything interesting? What's on your menu? We need to start planning ours. Anyone have a great dressing or cranberry sauce recipe? I want to mix it up this year.

My sister is graduating from Alabama on December 12th so Baby J and I will spend 1/2 the month in Alabama going between the Gulf Coast and Birmingham. I can't wait to visit with friends and family! We will be in the car a lot though! Any tips for THREE long car rides with a 11 month old and 2 plane rides? We have got to move closer, this travel is killing me.

For those of you that have kids, what are your favorite 12-18 month toys? I need to make a list for the Grandparents for Christmas and Birthday! Can't wait to hear your suggestions!
We're thinking about getting this or this?

It's time to start planning Baby J's first bday! Any suggestions on themes? We'll probably just do it at our apartment since it cost like $1000 to rent anywhere in the city and it will be too cold in January to have it in the park! Yikes!

I've been busy with Junior League. Email me if you live in the city and want to get involved! We have a great holiday shopping thing coming up soon. Check out the website for details or email me.

I got another check from ebates this week! Y'all they have sent me $430.00 this year!!! How awesome is that! If you have not signed up, you are crazy. Click here and get started. (You get $5.00 and I get $5.00) If you have any questions, let me know. Basically if you can remember to go there and then search for whatever store you are about to make an online purchase from, you will get cash back. The big fat checks get paid every few months. I use it the most for diapers.com and ebay. It's just one extra step, that pays! Do it for all of your Christmas shopping and you can treat yourself to something!

That's it for now. I need to take a shower before the little one wakes up. We have music class today! I love Little Maestros!

Lipton Pyramid Teas

Ok, I have to share!! Have y'all tried these yet? In an effort to watch my sweet intake (this baby weight isn't quite melting off like I hoped it would), I saw Lipton's Vanilla Caramel Truffle Pyramid Tea at my local grocery store and decided to give it a try. This stuff is HEAVENLY! It is the perfect afternoon or after dinner tea to soothe my ever present sweet cravings. I just bought the White Tea with Blueberry and Pomegranate and it is also quite tasty! Click here to check out all of the fun flavors. I'm not sure what they did to this tea, but it tastes so fresh and yummy. If you like tea, I highly recommend you check these out (and no, Lipton is not paying me to tell you about it!)

Here are some links to buy some if you can't find it at your grocery store.

(This is for a pack of six boxes of 20)

The Ultimate Blog Party

Hi y'all! Welcome to Magnolias, Marriage and Manhattan for all of you that have come over from The Ultimate Blog Party!

Welcome to my little space. Let's start with a drink:

If you're joining us in the morning a good bloody will do you:

The Best Bloody Mary
1. Fill a tall glass with ice.
2. Add 1 1/2-2 ounces of Absolut Vodka
3. Add 1 teaspoon of Worchestershire, 1/2 teaspoon of prepared horseradish, pinch of black pepper, dash of celery salt, 1/2 teaspoon of pickapepper sauce
4. Squeeze in juice of lemon wedge
5. Fill to top with Cmott's clamto juice or V8 veggie juice
6. Toss mixture in a shaker cup
7. Pour back in glass and garnish with celery stalk, olives, pickled beans/okra and a lime wedge.

YUMMY!

Joining us later in the day? How about a good Southern Drink? Try this one to get you ready for summertime..

The Bama Breeze
2 ounces of Absolut Citron Vodka
1 ounce of coconut rum
Juice of 1/2 fresh lime
2-3 ounces of Cranberry Juice
1/2 ounce of Simple Syrup
Lime Wedge

And some dip:

L.A Caviar

Since I'm a cheese dip lover and I can't get it in NYC we'll try this one:

Crazy Cheesy Queso Dip
1. Melt 4 tablespoons of butter in a heavy skillet. Add 1/2 sweet chopped onion and 1/2 chopped green and 1/2 chopped red bell pepper. Saute for 2 minutes until veggies are soft.
2. Add 1 4 ounce can of green chili peppers and good another 2 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Cut 1 lb of white American cheese in to 1-inch cubes. Place cheese and 1 cup of whole milk in the top of a double broiler and melt over medium-high heat.
4. Add onion and bell pepper mixture. Mix thoroughly.
5. Add 1/2 teaspoon of cumin, 1/2 teaspoon of coriander and 1/2 teaspoon of white pepper. Salt to taste and serve with tortila chips.

I'll also have some fresh oysters and fried crab claws for you to try. Want more of these good recipes buy the book here (it's Jimmy Buffet's sister) and her restaurant is one of my favorites in the South.

(For my regular readers, I haven't gone crazy...click here to learn more about The Ultimate Blog Party hosted by Five Minutes for Mom) The purpose of the party is to find some great new blogs and meet some fabulous new people. Oh, and there is a chance to win some amazing prizes too. Such as my personal favorites:

#6-A Three Tier Diaper Cake provided by Diaper Cakewalk (perfect for decor/present for one of my upcoming showers)
#96-An extra large pail from Good Pails donated by The Stuff I Live For
# $20.00 Gift Certificate to Lush from After a Cup of Coffee...or Two
#100-A Jill Norwood Gift Bag from Who Could Ask For Anything More
#15-to help my baby shower stash a $50.00 Gift Certificate to Kids Magical Wonder
#20-to help my paper addiction a $50.00 Gift Certificate from Paperlicous

or you can't go wrong with...
#117-$25.00 to Target from Mommy Bytes
#124-Rachel Rays Cookbook from Loving Life
#42 Baby Food Gift Set from Sweet Pea Cakes, Etc
#70-FREE CHOCOLATE from Chocolistas
#140-$20.00 Gift Certificate to Amazon from Mommy and Daddy Blog
#92-Pear Earrings from PamperingBeki
#118-Handmade Wipe Case Cover from Girl, That's Cute


You should join in on the fun too if you haven't already!

Now, for those of you are new let me introduce myself. You can call me MMM that is what they call me as I write this blog anonymously. I just celebrated my 1st blogiversary recently. I started this blog as an outlet for me during wedding planning (look to the right and scroll down to the tag section of "weddings" to see all of my wedding related posts or just click here).

I got married on June 30, 2007 and one week after my honeymoon we packed up our wedding presents and our golden retriever Daisy and moved from the deep South to NYC! The past few months have been exciting and they have been tough. I use my blog to talk about life as a newlywed away from my family and friends. Last year we were in the wedding stage and I talked a ton about weddings and wedding showers. This year we are in the baby stage (with TEN friends due in the upcoming months).

Besides my personal stories, I love to entertain so many of my posts are about the parties I am planning. I love paper products...invitations, stationary, calling cards, greeting cards, etc. I am obsessed with anything pink and green and I love all things preppy. I like to share my preppy shopping finds and I love a good discount. If you can monogram it---I either own it or I want it. I'm a Southern Belle to the core (I even wore an antebellum dress on the weekends in high school for a group I was a part of). I'm a Southern Sorority girl (Hello to all my KD sisters reading). I'm now a Junior League member too after just starting my first placement. I hope you enjoy checking out my blog and I hope you'll join us in the future!

Feel free to leave a comment and say hello!

Thanks for stopping by y'all.

Three Years Ago Today

Three posts in one day to celebrate that three years ago today I met my husband. I think I've told the story before, but for those new to the blog...

Friday, March 4, 2005 is a day I will never forget. It was the spring auction for a children's charity I was a member of. I had to sell tickets to the event and I hit up the owner of my company. He bought a ticket for him and his wife. B (my boss) had been trying to hook me up with his friend's son for awhile now. I had broken up with my boyfriend of two years in July and I was not quite ready to be going on blind dates with random guys my boss wanted to set me up with. It wasn't like I was desperate! Well, B comes into my cube and announces on Thursday afternoon that his wife had made dinner arrangements before he told her about the auction so they would not be able to go. And the kicker...he had called A (my husband) and invited him to go to the auction with me AND he had given him my phone number at work! Ahhh!! I was about to strangle B. So sure enough this guy (who is living at the time in Memphis) drives 6 hours to the auction. (I now realize that he also came because it was his birthday weekend and his parents live in the same town.)

Well, I get over the initial shock and I'm pretty excited I have a date! I told my roommates and my friends and picked out a cute outfit (cute black sweater and green and white polka dot skirt from banana republic). B told me that A was going to meet me at the auction and take me to dinner. A called me (at work) and told me he was excited to meet me and would call me as soon as he arrived. Well, I waited and I waited and I waited and the auction was almost over and no call from A. I remember sitting outside the room with my cellphone in my hand wondering if this guy had stood me up. Nope--turns out he showed up and saw some of his high school friends and none of them knew me so he was having trouble figuring out who I was (he forgot to call and mention he had arrived). Finally we met. I remember thinking he was pretty cute. He mentions to me that he is going to go grab dinner with his friends and maybe we could meet up for a drink later. He must have seen the look on my face, because then he mentions I can come if I want to. NO, I do not WANT to. Thank you very much. I was thinking, "what the hell happen to the nice dinner B told me he would take me to?" So I leave with my roommates and we go do dinner on our own. We split a bottle of wine to drown my sorrows and toast the date that never was. Around the end of dinner A calls me and asks me to meet him at a bar kinda far from where we were. I told him no thanks, I was on the other side of town but it was nice to meet him (SO THERE). We are leaving the restaurant and a car full of our other friends drive by and say change of plans we are all now going to a different bar. You guessed it, the bar where he was. I debate in the car if I should call and tell him I'm coming now or just show up. Thanks to the previously mentioned bottle of wine, I decide to give him a heads up. He says he'll see me soon. Game back on. We arrive at the bar and he buys me a Miller Light (his favorite beer I now know). We talk and we talk and we talk. We REALLY hit it off. My roommate L reminds me we have to wake up bright and early to drive 2.5 hours to pick up my brand new puppy in the morning. I tell him about this little puppy and ask his opinion on the names--Bayla or Daisy. It's still under debate, but I'm pretty sure he said Daisy. (Little did he know he was helping name his future dog.) So, we hug and he says he'll call...and I think...don't they all...

And the rest my friends is history! Three years later I'm sitting at work in NYC about to go home to my husband and my dog, Daisy. For all you single girls...don't ever turn down a blind date...you never know who you'll meet.

Happy Three Year Anniversary A and Daisy! I can't imagine my life without you both!

***A funny side note I found out about a month before our wedding---when I called A to tell him I was coming to the bar, he was actually in his car on the way back to his parent's house. He TURNED around after I called and went back the bar and pretended to have been there the whole time. Oh, how this crazy world works!

***Also, B (who just had his 70th birthday) was our ringbearer. He carried the pillow and everything!

Happy Birthday Weekend!

Quality Meats

This is what I got...Jing Yong

The Carts

Yesterday was my husband's birthday! We celebrated all weekend and I'm paying for it today- too many sweets, rich food and wine! On Friday night we went here. We had a great celebration with my husband's cousin and his girlfriend. We drank some fabulous wine and had an overall wonderful evening with them.

On Saturday for lunch we went here. (See pictures above from NY Magazine.) This crazy restaurant is a Dim Sum spot in Chinatown. We had a great time picking our dumplings from the carts and drinking jasmine tea. If you have never been to a dim sum restaurant they are really fun, basically ladies roll around carts of food and you just point to what you want and they stamp your ticket. Jing Fong (the restaurant we went to) was HUGE!! It was really fun seeing all the interesting foods and for two kids from the South we are getting pretty good at picking out the good items. After our lunch we walked around Chinatown for awhile. I got some cute new trendy earrings, a hounds tooth scarf, and a few other little things.

Saturday night we cooked in and watched this. I've had a lot of recent luck with baking so when my husband asked for a chocolate cake for his birthday, I was certain I could make the prettiest, yummiest chocolate cake ever. Well, let's just say my cake was yummy. I finished the second layer (I used my new pink silicone 9 inch pan---not a good idea, I think) and the instructions said to ice the cake (with the icing I had made) while the cake was still warm. As I start to ice the cake little earthquakes happen all over. It was like slow motion...my two hours of hard work just cracking everywhere...within a minute it was the ugliest looking thing you have ever seen. I had one of those moments where I just lost it. Yep, I cried like a baby over my broken cake. I couldn't help myself. I had worked so hard and I wanted it to be perfect. I just had tears streaming down my cheeks watching my husband's poor birthday cake fall apart before my eyes. He gave me a big hug while he alternated laughing a me crying over a stupid cake and watching his birthday cake turn into a chocolate landslide. He was so sweet and told me it was the best cake he had ever tasted (key word). I must admit it tastes pretty good, but it it is the ugliest cake I've ever made for sure. I had planned to share a picture with you...maybe next time...

Yesterday my husband had to go to work on his birthday. Poor thing! I cleaned and cleaned in preparation for his parent's coming next weekend for the first time to our apartment. I filled three vacuums full of dog hair--so gross! You would think we have 2 dogs instead of just one. I also went to a lovely shower at my friend K's apartment. She is due March 30th-- 9 months to the day of our wedding. =) She is having a little girl so we dined on pink cupcakes, pink tea, scones, champagne and tea sandwiches. I got her this with a matching bib and this. She loved it! People up here thought I was brilliant with the monogramming thing. They just don't monogram as much as we do in the South! I also had a chance to use my new gift cards. We had a great time!

So to conclude the birthday weekend we topped our celebrations off last night with a dinner at Quality Meats. (See more pictures from NY Magazine above and their review here.) They make their own ice cream so I figured what guy wouldn't love steak and ice cream for his birthday. The food was really good. I liked the sides the best. I got the filet trio (pictured above). They treated us to some sparkling wine and my husband got some fabulous mint chocolate chunk ice cream with a candle (must prettier presentation then my cake).

I allowed my husband to open a present each day this weekend. He got this tie in yellow and another Vineyard Vines red football tie and this shirt. I also got him some JCrew mens ear muffs for those long walks to the subway. Last year I got him this jacket and I'm trying to build up to getting him all the parts that go with it so I got the hood and the next gift will be the liner. I also got him these...so he could check out what is going on on out there...one of his only requests. =) We also got tickets for this as a present for us both!!! I can't wait!!!

That's it for now. This weekend we are heading to Birmingham so I can help host one of my best friend's baby shower. I can't wait to see her and a bunch of my other friends. I'm looking forward to wearing my new dress and being in some warmer weather. My Mom and sister are also coming up so I can't wait to be around family and friends!! I hope each of you had a wonderful weekend.

~(Almost) A YEAR AGO TODAY~

Happy Valentine's Day Giveaway!

To show my love for you today...I want to hear about how you want to show your love for someone else! See this picture of the cute monogrammed mouse pad from Preppy Monogrammed Gifts...well we are giving one away...for you to give away. Valentine's Day for me is about TELLING everyone that you love how special they are. So, all you have to do it write a comment and tell me which monogrammed mouse pad you would pick (there are tons of cute fabrics here) and tell me who you would give it to and why. We will pick a winner on Saturday! Thanks Deana for letting me have so much fun with this and thanks readers for reading, commenting and being a part of my life! Happy Valentine's Day to each of you. I hope you have a wonderful day today and you give and receive lots of love.

PS. If you were wondering my Preppy Monogrammed Gifts show has been extended if you still want to order this mouse pad for yourself! Just enter MMM as your hostess. They just added these precious monogrammed Easter baskets for your little ones. Not to jump right into the next holiday or anything but Easter is only about six weeks away so get your order in soon. Your little ones will love these baskets. Am I too old to have my own pink one? Hmm..

This is what I made my sweet coworkers for their little treat today! Another coworker just made me a diploma for the best valentine's cook! It's so cute! She's from Romania and it acutally said best valetine's day cooker! =)

I'll give you an update tomorrow on my Valentine's day with my husband! He sent me flowers last week when I was having a tough time, so I told him no more today. He showed up last night with a huge bouquet. So sweet. We're going to a fabulous dinner tonight and I can't wait! More tomorrow!

Housekeeping note: If you received an invite to view my blog and you are already signed up, please let me know (magnoliasmarriageandmanhattan@gmail.com). I think some invitations went into people's spam boxes and I want to try to follow up with people. There are still quite a few invitations that have not been accepted. Oh and sorry if you got an error message...good ole blogger doesn't always behave! Thanks for everyone that have emailed me other people. I promise we won't stay private forever! =)

A YEAR AGO TODAY here's what I was up to.

Mr. Magnolia?

Happy Tuesday friends!

Dinner last night with Mrs. Preppy Wedding was so much fun. Her friend E also joined us and we almost closed Rosa down with all of our carrying on. It really was like meeting a long lost friend. I had a great time and it was nice to finally meet a fellow blogger friend face to face. When I orginally walked into the restaurant I was the first to arrive and as I stared down every brunette girl that walked in wondering if that was her, I suddenly felt like I was on blind date of sorts. There was one girl that walked in with an argyle sweater on and I was certain that was my friend (luckily I didn't run up to her as it was not her). It really was kinda funny. It was so strange for me to meet someone that I felt like I knew so well, but had actually never met. But, I'm so glad we met and in case you were wondering the Mrs. is just as fabulous as she seems on her blog! Thanks for a great dinner E and Mrs Preppy Wedding! Let's do it again soon.

So my friend Sarah sent me this link as a laugh. I can't imagine the look on my husband's face if I sent this to him. Don't worry hunny...I didn't do it. Speaking of my husband..."My husband" needs a creative name on my blog. After a year of calling him, "my fiance" and now "my husband" it is time to upgrade him. Mr. Magnolia is just not quite right. Any ideas?

Since it looks like this here, I keep wishing I was here. I'm going to reward myself with stopping by A. Tierney's sample sale this afternoon. Don't worry, you can join in the fun.

Hope everyone has a great day! Thanks for all your tips from yesterday.

Blogger Notes: Sorry if you have received multiple invitations from me to join the blog. I've had some major problems with blogger AND they still have not fixed spell check so thanks for dealing with my bad spelling. It's amazing how addicted one can become to spell check.

Something new I want to try...at the end of each post I'm going to include a link to my post "from a year ago today" It's a great way for those of you who are new readers to catch up on where I've been and what I'm about. So....A YEAR AGO TODAY here is what I was talking about.

Random Reader Questions

Good morning! I hope everyone had a wonderful weekend. My husband and I rested all weekend. Friday night we went to dinner here. It was one of the best meals I've had in NYC! I had the horseradish encrusted sole and we shared the chocolate molten cake for dessert. No wonder my pants are tight today! My husband also signed us up for this, which I hope will bring us more freedom in the future. I'll let you know how it goes.

On Saturday, we headed down to Pottery Barn determined to make a decision on buying a chair. We brought a swatch of fabric from our sofa and tried it against the large fabric swatches they have in the store. This (in brownstone tickting) ended up being our favorite and this (same chair but in the harbor blue ticking) was our second favorite. I also ordered a swatch of the green stripe fabric from Ballard Designs for the Remy Chair I talked about awhile ago. I went ahead and ordered this so that the shipping on my swatch was free. Like my thinking? I hope we can figure out which one to get...they are all so expensive!! With an ottoman, taxes, shipping both end up being around $1500. I guess that is normal? Seems so expensive to me! I know it will be an investment and we will have it forever though so that is good.

My invitations for A's baby shower also came on Saturday. They turned out so cute! I spent some time in the afternoon addressing them all and I got them all mailed out today! Thanks Mollie and Marie! I also ordered these for myself and they are fabulous. I even booked my ticket to Birmingham where we will be having the shower. I can't wait to see all my friends! Having a trip planned back to the South helps me not get so homesick.

Last night we went over to our friends M&K's apartment for dinner. They are very lucky to own a two bedroom apt just down the street from us. K is due with their first baby the end of March. I had a great time checking out her beautiful nursery. K is having a girl so the walls are pale green with this and this. The bedding is all pink and white and she found a fabulous bright colored rug for the room. She already has so much stuff, I had a great time looking at everything! I'm attending a shower for her in about three weeks and I ordered some cute monogrammed burp clothes and a bib and this cute sippy cup (all from Preppy Monogrammed Gifts.)

When we got home after a great dinner, my husband was watching tv in our bedroom and our bed broke!! When we moved the bed from the South it was one of the pieces that did not do well during the move. We have a sleigh bed that my husband's Mom found on major sale and we were very lucky she donated to us. Unfortunately , we have figured out the reason it was on major sale is that it is CHEAP! So my husband spent a few hours trying to nail things back in place so we wouldn't fall down last night. Our neighbors starting banging on our walls because of all the hammering. We felt bad, but not bad enough to sleep on the floor last night. We think he temporaily fixed it but it might be time to look for a new bed! Tonight I'm heading out to dinner with Mrs. Preppy Wedding. I'm looking forward to finally meet her!

I need some new makeup! What are your favorites? I love Bobbi Brown's shimmer brick and Chanel lipgloss, but I need some new staples. Anyone have a favorite for dark circles (this city is bringing mine out)?

I have a friend that is planning a trip to Boston this spring. She would like to go to a Yankees vs. Sox game. Any tips for her on how to secure some tickets (she already missed the lottery)?

What's your favorite pair of cold weather pants? It is FREEZING here today and I need some thicker pants to wear to work. Everything in the stores in turning to spring items and it is very much still winter here.

What's everyone doing for Valentine's day? Do you buy your sweetie something?

I also need some ideas of what to get my husband for his birthday. It is in three weeks! Any good suggestions?

Can't wait to hear from everyone! I hope this private forum will encourage you to comment regularly if you feel the need.

Welcome Friends!

If you are reading this you have accepted my invitation to be a part of the exlusive club of Magnolias, Marriage and Manhattan blog readers. I have one rule...be nice. I like to surround myself with positive people and that is why each of you have been invited. I'm excited about this next year of blogging. I don't want to exclude nice people so if you have a friend you think would enjoy reading then send me an email (magnoliasmarriageandmanhattan@gmail.com) and I'll add them to the list. I think I added everyone that asked for an invitation, but if you see someone on another blog or in a comments section asking where I went, please do me a favor and email me so I can add them. Thanks so much for signing up to be a reader. I promise we'll have a good time together!

Okay, gotta go. Our bed broke and my husband is trying to fix it...more on that later.

I'm One!

Today is my 1st Blogiversary! Isn't this cake to die for? I really wish I could have a slice today! Check out the other fabulous cakes by Butterfly Sweets here. If I lived closer, I would definitely order one of these!

Dear Blogworld Friends,

It has been quite a year for me and I thank y'all for coming along for the ride. I started this blog as an outlet during my wedding planning one year ago today. I remember the day I told my husband I wanted to start a blog. He thought I was CRAZY! I had been reading Preppy Cafe and The Preppy Wedding for a long time and I wanted to join in on the fun. After convincing my husband that some crazies wouldn't show up at our door, he helped me establish some ground rules. First he made me promise him I would not use clear pictures of ourselves, use my real name (or his) and the hardest part...not tell anyone. We agreed I would only tell my friend S, my brother and my sister about my blog so I would not have to worry about editing my thoughts. I liked the idea of having an online journal of sorts with all of these nice people writing me back. Well, our little rules lasted a good while until my sweet brother drank a bit too much and told one of my best friends (and her family) at my rehearsal dinner about my fabulous blog. Somehow or another all of my bridesmaids proceeded to find out. =) But I'm glad they are in the know now as I really don't mind. However, I still haven't told all of my friends because I like the idea of keeping this somewhat private. As one bridesmaid who recently confessed to being a daily reader said, "I like reading the unedited versions of your life," and you know what...I like writing the unedited version and I plan to continue that! I don't have anything to hide, but if EVERYONE you know is reading then inevitably you have to edit your thoughts.

So back to the recap of my year in blogging. There have been a few rough patches in my life during past year that I've decided to share. Your comments when my husband was held up at gunpoint the day I sent out my wedding invitations truly helped me get through that day. I'll also never forget this past summer when we lost our apartment and the first thing I did was come to the computer and write a post. Immediately the comments came in and they made me feel better. Recently, after a really bad week of being homesick (and witnessing a shooting during my first few weeks in the city) I confided in y'all and as I read your comments I sat on my sofa with tears running down my cheeks. Your comments and encouragement were so heartfelt and genuine. I felt so alone in this big city after my move, yet you were there with me through the whole trip helping me keep my chin up and suggesting ways to make the best of the situation.

Even though I haven't met you, each of you have been a wonderful friend to me and I thank you for that. I've asked you about which dress to wear, which shoes my bridesmaids should wear, what chair to get, and even which wedding cake to pick. You email me links to things you think I'll like, you share your cute stores with me and I especially love it when you email me how much you liked my wedding! Ha, Ha! We have had a good time together this past year. I think many of you have enjoyed my wedding tips and others have enjoyed some of my preppy finds and newfound NYC knowledge. I especially love your nice comments about my child (aka Daisy). Every Momma LOVES to hear how beautiful her baby is! =)

Blogworld has brought so many good things and people into my life. I'll never forget those first comments and the first time someone tagged me! All the $$ I've spent buying stationary and preppy gifts also gave me some good Karma! I made my dream birthday list this past August and I wake up the next morning on my birthday and there is this email from Mollie at The Paper Cafe telling me that my birthday wish for a Three Designing Women Address stamper is going to come true! Mollie, you have been so supportive of me this year and I have loved working with you on our various projects. I can't speak highly enough of The Paper Cafe! In fact, I just ordered these (they are designed by Marie at The Paper Menu -another new blogging friend) for one of my best friend's baby showers. Other examples...Imagine my surprise when I talked about my love for Whitney English stationary in a few posts and Whitney herself emails me to say thanks and sends me a little treat. And then there is Kristin from I Do Originals. She actually designed my wedding logo thanks to a tip from a reader! This is one talented girl and as my brother said it was the most well branded wedding he has ever seen. =) Mrs P from Chic actually picked out my engagement party outfit! I miss your posts Mrs. P! As you know, I LOVE stationary and the fact that the owner of Cross My Heart also sent me an email to say thanks is just unbelieveable! Oh, and I can't forget most recently the cute mousepad I featured from The Palm Gifts. Well, it actually showed at my doorstep the other day with my new initials! On Monday, I'm meeting a fellow blogger for the first time-Mrs. Preppy Wedding herself and I are going for Mexican! As you can see, my life has been enhanced because of my blogging experiences this past year.

That said, there have also been hurtful comments (I usually just delete them, but sometimes they really do upset me) and this week I received insensitive emails from someone/something that found my blog and demanded my identity and censorship on something I discussed. I like to think my blog is a happy place and as much as I want to share it with the world, it is time to take our little community private so I can say whatever I damn well please. =) Thank you ALL for the emails I have received the past few days and all the comments. I'm humbled and overwhelmed that there are so many of you that want me to continue blogging. Late last night my husband and I sat together and read through all the comments and emails and we were both just amazed. Why in the world do you want to read about little ole me? Seriously? But, I'm really glad you do! I see on the tracker that there are all of these people that read my posts each day, but now I know your names! Our relationship is moving right along...maybe by next year we'll be ready to meet!

Thank you blogworld friends for reading my posts this past year. It is because of your comments and emails that I enjoy sharing my stories with you. Cheers to another year together! Please remember to email me at magnoliasmarriageandmanhattan@gmail.com if you want to be added to the list. You should recevie an invitation sometime this weekend for our new start together.


Sincerely,


MMM

Oh and ROLL TIDE. What a HAPPY DAY for us!

PS. Sorry for any spelling mistakes...the spelling function on blogger isn't working today!

PPS. If you are a new reader here are a few of my favorite posts from the past year:

http://magnoliasmarriageandmanhattan.blogspot.com/2007/11/im-thankful.html#links

http://magnoliasmarriageandmanhattan.blogspot.com/2007/09/tailgating-essentials.html

http://magnoliasmarriageandmanhattan.blogspot.com/2007/09/our-honeymoon-pictures-part-two-lucerne.html

http://magnoliasmarriageandmanhattan.blogspot.com/2007/09/our-honeymoon-pictures-part-one-german.html

http://magnoliasmarriageandmanhattan.blogspot.com/2007/07/hello-from-troutville-va.html

http://magnoliasmarriageandmanhattan.blogspot.com/2007/03/little-ice-for-your-monday.html

Jumping on the Bandwagon

Due to a number of reasons I have decided to take my blog private. I may do this temporarily and I may do it longterm. I have not decided yet. If you would like to be added to the list of readers, please leave your email address in the comment section or email me at magnoliasmarriageandmanhattan@gmail.com. I will give you until the weekend to sign up. Thank you to everyone that reads and I'm sorry to have to do this!

Thanks!

Thank you everyone who posted such sweet comments for me yesterday. I survived the test and I feel much better today. It certainly is not a pleasant test, as those of you who have had one can attest. I slept most of the day yesterday and just took it easy. My family sent me a bouquet of beautiful pink flowers and my husband took the day off (in the middle of a big deal) to take care of me the entire day. I felt very loved! =)The good news is that my test was clear and I don't have Chrons like they thought I might. They bad news is that I will continue to have to have some more tests to figure out what is wrong with me. Moving right along...I'm ready for the weekend! We are going to dinner tonight and we have a going away party for our friends that are moving to Atlanta on Saturday night. I'm going to clean our apartment and try to get organized. A week from today I will be at home getting ready to ride in our Mardis Gras parade. I can not wait! I hope everyone has a wonderful weekend. Thank you again for your support.

Don't Be Jealous...

Tomorrow I get to have yet ANOTHER test run to figure out what is wrong with me. Here's what I'm doing today...don't be jealous. I'm so damn hungry! My sweet coworkers have not eaten in front of me all day. I think they are secretly worried I would attack them and eat their food if they did. I've consumed lots of liquids (I had an $80 Fresh Direct Liquid order earlier this week-my husband thinks I'm crazy, but ladies I'm ready to go in the clear liquid department) I've peed oh...about 10 times already today. I haven't started my prep yet. I going to hold off until I'm at home. If I started now that would REALLY not be pleasant for any of us. My sweet husband will be taking care of me tomorrow. Please keep me in your thoughts...especially for the fun ahead of me tonight!

A recipe for a really rough afternoon and night:

COLONSOCOPY PREPARATION INSTRUCTION
MAGNESIUM CITRATE AND DULCOLAX

It is very important that you follow each step and complete all of these instructions or colonsocopy may have to be repeated.
**The bowel preparation will not work properly unless you drink plenty of liquids.**

Before starting your prep, obtain a 10-fl. oz. of Magnesium Citrate and Dulcolax Tablets over the counter from your pharmacy. The recommended dosage is: One (1) Bottle 10-fl. Oz of Magnesium Citrate and One (1) Box Dulcolax 20 mg (4 tablets, each 5 mg). DO NOT BUY RED COLORED MAGNESIUM CITRATE (CHERRY FLAVOR).

The Day Before Exam:

STEP 1 - Drink clear liquids only (NO SOLID FOODS) at least 24 hrs prior to the procedure.
Clear Liquids include:
· Water
· Fruit Juices without pulp (apple, white grape, lemonade, strained orange)
· Clear broth or bouillon (low sodium)
· Coffee or tea without milk or non-dairy creamer (sugar substitutes are fine)
· Carbonated or non-carbonated soft drinks (NO RED OR PURPLE)
· Kool-Aid or flavored drinks (NO RED OR PURPLE)
· Popsicles or Italian Ice (NO RED OR PURPLE)
· Jell-O without fruit or toppings (NO RED OR PURPLE)

STEP 2 - At 3:00 P.M.
· Take the 4 Dulcolax tablets with a full glass of water.

STEP 3 - At 5:00 P.M
· Take HALF of one 10 oz. bottle of the Magnesium Citrate
· Divide the laxative EQUALLY into three (3) empty cups
· Fill each cup with Gingerale (or any clear liquid of your choice)
· Drink each cup of the mixture every 10 minutes
· Drink First cup at - 5:10 p.m.
· Drink Second cup at - 5:20 p.m.
· Drink Third cup at - 5:30 p.m.

Individual responses to laxatives vary. This prep often works within 30 minutes but may take as long as 3 hours. Remain close to toilet facilities as multiple bowel movements may occur. Drink clear liquids for the rest of the day as much as you can - at least three (3) additional glasses.

Day of Exam:
At 4:00A.M. – FOUR (4) hours before leaving for your exam:
Repeat STEP 3 taking remaining HALF bottle:
· Drink First cup at - 4:00a.m.
· Drink Second cup at - 4:10a.m.
· Drink Third cup at - 4:20 a.m.

You may have clear liquids up to 3 hours before leaving for your procedure or up until the prep is completed.

Happy 22nd Birthday Little Sis!

Today is my sister's 22nd birthday! She is an amazing persona and I'm so lucky to have her as my little sis. Like any siblings we've had our our ups and our downs, but the older she gets the better friends we become. We are more alike each day and I know she'll always be there for me. She served as my maid of honor this past year and it was so much fun to share that special experience with her. I miss her so much! Cheers to the best sister in the world! Happy Bday A!

A Love Story

Reader Cameron sent me this link and I wanted to share it with y'all.

Hi, Came across your blog and thought you might enjoy this Link to a story dealing with a couple fighting in the war, but being able to come back to the states so that one can propose to the other...http://www.ocregister.com/life/jasmine-luis-love-1939005-told-iraq Enjoy!

Christmas in the City

I'm sorry I have not been posting much. Things have been really busy, I'm sure it is that way with all of you. It is hard sometimes to stop in the middle of the holiday rush and remember why we are celebrating. I'm been trying extra hard this week to remember "the reason for the season." I heard a guy say the other day, "I'm too blessed to be stressed." That is so true! My husband and I have used that as our motto the past few weeks when things get crazy.

Another reason for not posting is that I've been not feeling well. The doctors are still trying to figure out exactly what is wrong with me, but it has been pretty scary as they have done some major tests on me. We narrowed down some of the things they thought it might be, but still no solution and I'm still feeling bad. I get more test results back today, so please keep me in your prayers. I think we are on the right track! =)

Anyways...We have really enjoyed the holiday season in the city. It is so pretty all decorated up! We went ice skating in Central Park a few weekends ago and had a blast! We saw the tree in Rockefeller center...wow!! We've been surviving the cold weather and enjoying the occasional snow. Daisy saw her first snow a few weeks ago and did well! I have pictures I'll share soon. I have sent out all of our Christmas cards. So far everyone has loved them as much as I do! I have also received some precious cards. I have quite a few babies on my bulletin board and this time next year I will have at least 7 more! That's right...SEVEN of my friends are pregnant and a few others are trying. First, it was the weddings and now we are on to the babies. Very exciting! I better start stocking up on baby gifts.

My husband and I are going home on Friday evening after work. Yeah!! First, we are going to his parent's city (where I used to live as well), then we'll drive 4 hours south to where my parents live on Christmas Eve. I have the ENTIRE week off work next week so I'm very excited. I can't wait to be with our family and friends. I've missed them so much! We are very lucky that we'll be able to spend this time with them. My husband will have to leave on the 26th, but I'll stay until the 29th (we are going down to our beach house). Poor Daisy is going to be stuck in the city at her usual place. I'll miss her a lot during Christmas! (Is that pathetic...oh well!)

I'll try to post when I have chance, but I will probably be sporadic until after the New Year. I hope everyone enjoys the season and remember..."You are too blessed to be stressed!"

To tide you over until next time...below are some pictures of Christmas in the city for you to enjoy.

The tree...sideways!!

Ice skating in Central Park

Decorations on the street.

City Christmas Stand

Little trees with snow!

More trees! Snow in Central Park

Ice Skating in the city!

Thanksgiving Recap

Sorry I've been MIA this week. It has been a little bit more busy at work as my 1st event is next Wednesday. Anyways...

My family and I had a wonderful Thanksgiving break and I hope that all of you did as well. My parents, brother and sister arrived on Wednesday. They were pretty tired, so we just had a few drinks and they went to bed early. My husband and I met his aunt and uncle (who were also in town) and cousins here for dinner. This was my second visit (in a week) and I highly recommend it!

Thursday morning we woke up bright and early to catch the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. It was so amazing to see the balloons in person. They are enormous! While we could not see street level very well, we had a great view of the balloons. Everyone needs to see the parade in person at least once, it is so worth it! Our Thanksgiving meal was fabulous. All of my dishes turned out great and my husband's mashed potatoes were a hit with my family. Our apartment isn't very big, but we managed quite well. Y'all would have been proud of all my new monogrammed linens set out on TV trays! I think I had a very successful first Thanksgiving as a hostess, but I have a new appreciation for all the years that my Mom has done it by herself. I was exhausted!

Friday, was VERY chilly so we really just hung around and talked and went on a few short excursions. That evening, we went to dinner at The 21 Club. It was pretty good. I had been told it is more about the atmosphere then the food, but we wanted to see for ourselves. The food was average, but the place is very unique. After dinner, our tickets to Curtains were canceled due to the stagehand strike (by the way, they are STILL striking). We were very lucky to get tickets to The Putnam County Spelling Bee, one of the only plays that is still showing on Broadway and it was HILARIOUS! It reminded me of a great Saturday Night Live skit.

On Saturday, we took a stroll with Daisy in Central Park. The leaves were stunning and the weather was crisp and clear. My Mom and sister and I went to Saks and I bought my dress. They both loved it and I'll be wearing it next weekend to one of my best friend's weddings in Louisiana. My husband and I were so impressed with our dinner a few weeks ago at Wolfgang's that we convinced my Dad we needed to go there for dinner. It was so tasty and we all drank way too much and then walked to The Mercury Bar to watch the Alabama vs Auburn game. No comment on the rest of the evening.

My family left Sunday morning and it was sad to see them go. I'll post pictures soon. I'm still waiting to find out if my husband will get any time off for Christmas so that we can travel back home to the South. We should know something soon. He is in the last part of his training before his permanent placement. For this new part he has to be AT work at 7:30am. The past few mornings have been a little too early for me. Especailly this morning...because...

I had a cry fest last night. One of my new friends and her husband (who works with my husband) are moving to Atlanta. Her husband is being transferred and they are leaving in March. I am so sad because a) I would like to move back to the South sooner rather than later and I'm really jealous and b) I really like my new friend and I'm really sad she is leaving me and c) PMS.

I'm counting down the days until my friend K's wedding. Most of our KD pledge class will be at the wedding and I am looking forward to seeing my girls. I miss them so much. I will also get to see my friend A, who is 15 weeks pregnant. I need to remember to bring her a little something. I'm so excited to finally see her! I leave next Thursday evening for Louisiana and I CAN'T wait to get out of the city. It's getting really cold here and it will be nice to be in the South.

Do y'all think I need this or this? I have a $50.00 gift certificate from our wedding and I've been saving it to get something for our apt for Christmas. Would love to hear your opinions.

Ok, back to work!