Because I am Blessed

Terribly Missed...

2009-07-06T11:23:00.002-04:00

I miss having the internet at home. I have so many fun updates for my blog. It's depressing.

Until then, you can read about my fun 4th of July at http://makingartagain.blogspot.com

I'm Sorry...

2009-06-29T09:19:00.002-04:00

As you may know, I've been in the process of moving. Up and down stairs, in and out of doors, lifting, dropping, sweating... ugh! But, I think it's over... for now.

I just wanted to apologize for my lack of postings. I don't have internet at my new place and we're not allowed to put our pictures on our work computers, therefore, not allowing me to update.

We did go to the beach last week and had a blast. There are tons of pictures and as soon as possible, I will post them.

Until then...

xo

Great Grapes

2009-06-17T10:21:00.004-04:00

Wine festivals are my most favorite activity of all activites. You get to be outside all day, taste from over 20 different vineyards, and enjoy the company that you are with. Sunday afternoon, my sister, Jillian and I headed out to Oregon Ridge Park in Hunt Valley to bask in the sun and sip some sweet wine. It just happened to be the MOST GORGEOUS DAY God could have given us.

Eventually, the other Jill (the one who's in Lindsey's wedding) and some other friends met up with us. Obviously, I had to take the traditional picture.

Trying on hats is extremely entertaining. Here we are channeling our inner "Cousin Kev" as I told Carly.

Adam and I having some fun in the hat tent.

Towards the end of the day we ran into Matt, Ashley, Kerri and Mike, so we bought a few bottles of wine, spread out our blanket and danced to the music. Look at that sky!

This was Allie's idea to take this picture, but I'm glad that we did because I love it.

Oh and Dog the Bounty Hunter was there.

(Not really but Jill and Linds thought so.)

Another Goodbye

2009-06-17T10:17:00.003-04:00

Yet another depressing weekend of saying goodbye to my precious roommate. Her friends who she's worked with for the past few years threw her a going away party down at their house in Canton. After having some pizza and a cocktail, we headed out to a bar called "Clutch".

Melissa, Me and Adam. (I don't look sad, but I am really, really sad)

Some of our Melting Pot friends came to wish her farewell. Weller, Adam, Melissa, Me and Melissa.

Me and my G.

Erica, Melissa and me trying desperately to make her stay in Maryland.

All in all, it was a great night. Even with the rain. We'll miss you Melissa!!!

Taylor Swift

2009-06-17T10:11:00.002-04:00

Last Thursday, the 11th, I treated my sister and my roommate to the best birthday present ever... THE TAYLOR SWIFT CONCERT! Tickets went on sale back in March, the weekend before Lindsey's birthday, so I called her best friend, Jill (who's father owns a ticketmaster distribution thing) and asked her if she'd like to come along and if her father could get us the tickets. Good thing she agreed because the show was sold out in less than 5 minutes! It was at Merriweather (where the Wine in the Woods took place) so we bought lawn seats. Unfortunately we couldn't see the stage AT ALL, but we had an amazing time watching the big tv and hearing her sing.

Me and Melissa (it was on her actuall birthday) tailgating.

With my Winsy.

Group shot of the girls enjoying the show. We had such an amazing time!

Yup, that's the best shot of the stage that I could get. Now you understand how crowded it was.

America's Next Top Models?

2009-06-09T20:43:00.007-04:00

While at Melissa's graduation party (see post below), I stumbled upon her little cousins pool goggles that were left behind. Here is what it led to:

Me

Melissa

Kate

Michelle

Anj

Heather

Feel free to laugh.

She's Leaving Me

2009-06-02T19:56:00.003-04:00

Saturday, Michelle and I jumped in my car and headed to New Jersey. Good news: it was to celebrate my roommates graduation at a party her parents were throwing for her. Bad news: That means she's getting closer to leaving me :'(

Here is us girls posing poolside. (We're so cute!) Michelle, Me, Melissa (the roomie), Heather and Kate. My friends that I met on my first day of college. They'll be in my heart forever.

My roomie and me with sunglasses...

My Roomie and me without sunglasses.

Anj finally got there! I really love these girls. I'm so blessed.

This is Melissa's cousin, Clyde, in the green. He loved hanging out with us girls and thought he was the "Man". So here he is jumping into Ryan (Melissa's little brother) arms to brag that he got to hang out with us all night.

We had such a good time celebrating. And I only cried once in mourning of my roommate leaving me. I love her.

Memorial weekend at the Beach

2009-05-28T11:32:00.006-04:00

For the past two years, I've been lucky enough to spend my Memorial Day basking in the sun in Ocean City. Nothing is better than sitting on the dock of the bay at Mrs. Sue's. I'm so blessed to have her in my life. I woke up early Saturday morning (6 am) and headed over the Bridge. I got to OC in just over 2 hours... not a bit of traffic.

Naturally, I headed right to Seacrets. Please enjoy the bounty of pictures below.

Here is one of Me and Gert in the water at Seacrets. If you look closely, you can actually see Mrs. Sue's place through the people in the background (for those of you who know what to look for).

Dale and I.

Megan, her friend (who's name I forget, please forgive me), and myself.

A small ZTA reunion. Tess and Kim were there, all dressed up and looking pretty. Of course I haven't seen them in a year and I looked like that. It was still great seeing them though.

Now time for a high school reunion. Gary, Katie and Me.

Megan was working all day but I grabbed her for just one quick picture.

(Does anyone else notice the cocktail in my hand in EVERY picture? Hey, it was vacation, don't judge me!)

Becca, Me and Gert waiting in line for some refreshments.

Uh... this was just a small portion of the crowd. It's all that I could fit in my frame from my view in the water. The gross water.

My FAVORITE picture of the whole trip. Yes, that's Mark Clayton. MARK CLAYTON OF THE BALTIMORE RAVENS!!! We all know how much I LOVE my Ravens as expressed here and here . He was at Seacrets!

Later that night, Meg got off work at Seacrets, came home and freshened up and then the two of us headed over to Macky's for a little bit.

The rest of the weekend I put my camera on rest because that's basically what I did. Just layed around and enjoyed being at the beach. Sunday though, Mrs. Sue, Meg and I went on a nice long nike ride and I did actually see the ocean which was nice.

This picture says it all-

Crabbies with the Girlies

2009-05-20T09:46:00.005-04:00

Last Tuesday night, myself, Alyssa, Katie and Gert indulged in Maryland's finest asset... CRABS! YUMMMMMM!

Here I am holding up my first crab of the summer. Alyssa thinks this picture is hysterical.

Unfortunately, Lyssers was playing photog so she didn't get in the group picture, but here is Katie, Gert and myself enjoying our corn.

Now, Me and Lys enjoying the corn. It was really good. They melt feta cheese on it with Old Bay! DELICIOUS!

After dinner, Alyssa and I went and met up with Melanie to celebrate her graduation. Here's a picture of most of the group that night at Brewer's Art.

Melanie, Me and Alyssa.

The crabs were so tasty that Melissa, Michelle and I went back this Tuesday. Hee hee.

Post #50

2009-05-20T09:45:00.003-04:00

Yay for Me! This is my 50th post. Therefore, getting it's own attention.

That is all.

Wine in the Woods

2009-05-20T09:44:00.007-04:00

A few weekends ago, Wine in the Woods was held at Merriweather in Columbia. An officially declared "Girls Day". The closer the day came, the worse the weather was predicted to be. Luckily, this is the weather we got:

Here is the "Sister-Sister" picture. We love Cait and Jill.

Here I am enjoying my wine. (This was just before I tried to snap a picture of me and my sister, who was sitting next to me. Instead, I fell backwards, throwing my wine on poor Lindsey. When I finally found my balance and stood back up 43849023 strangers clapped for me. You could say that I was slightly embarrassed.)

This is my hippie shot. Last year, Me, Linz and Jill went to the Great Grapes Festival and met these super fun people that were volunteering for a vineyard. They were wearing nametags that said "Dickie" and "Spanky", so clearly we became friends with them and took this picture with them:

Well, we found Dickie and Spanky again at this wine festival, so we took our ritual picture

Here is another sister shot. We had so much fun.

This is my friend Jackie. I love her.

And these are my best friends sharing a snuggie earlier that weekend. I just really wanted to share it with everyone who reads my blog. I thin that I'm going to print this and frame it because I love it so much.

And in about two or three weeks, the Great Grapes Festival comes around again. We're SO excited. Keep looking for photos.

Towsontown Festival

2009-05-05T11:01:00.004-04:00

Towsontown Festival is always the first week in May and is without a doubt a great time. Every year, every (well basically everyone) that ever lived/visited/has heard about Towson, gets together and feasts on the local goods, while the streets on T-town are closed off. Music blaring, craft booths and plenty of crab related foods cover the town.

Oh, did I forget to mention the petting zoo?

Kenny, Alyssa and I enjoying delicious Sherri's Crab Cakes. That's the main reason why I go to the festival. Seriously. Yum.

Amber, a great friend from growing up, recently bought a home in Parkville which is really close to Towson, so she and her boyfriend and her sister came and met us at the 98 Rock Garden for some music, food and drinks. I lover her.

In between hanging outside and finding our way over to Clay's house, we stopped through the Crease to pick up a few more people. Melissa, Me, Alix and Alyssa.

This is Carrie. She's the best hair stylist. Hands down. (Please don't judge that based on the way my hair looks in this picture. It was humid and I had been outside for 5 hours.)

After a quick run-through at the Crease, we headed over to Clay and Catherine's. They have an awesome covered porch which was perfect because it started to rain. We played cards and continued the festivities of the day. Alyssa took this picture because she was feeling "artsy".

This is such a silly picture, but I love it. Because I am Blessed with my friends.

The End.

Sitting on the porch

2009-05-05T10:55:00.002-04:00

Friday night was so nice out that Melissa and I decided to just sip some wine and sit on our cute little porch. I have to soak up as much roomie time as I can because she's growing up and moving back to Philly to start her career. (Sigh) After about 20 minutes of sitting there, Andy called with exciting news that he had a trunk full of Ravens bobbleheads. If you are a follower of my blog you know my obessesion with the Ravens. Anyway, we happily invited Andy over to join the porch sitting fun.

Then about an hour later, we invited Kelly, who lives in the apartment across the hall and the guys from upstairs to join the party. I have to be honest, the guys were mainly invited so that we could nicely tell them to stop allowing their trash to be thrown off of their balcony because it lands in the beautiful garden that Melissa planted and in turn, we have to pick it up. But because the beer was flowing, they happily agreed to hault their waste tossing habits.

All in all a great night. I'm going to miss living there.

They moved in!

2009-05-05T10:40:00.003-04:00

Patrick and Lindsey are officially homeowners! Last Thursday, Mom, Linz, Jill and I all took the day off of work to help Winsy move in to her first home. We each took a car load from their old apartment to their new house, therefore 4 car loads, and that's all we needed. She and Pat rented a U-Haul to get the furniture on Saturday. Thankfully, so none of us girls had to do any heavy lifting. My best friend Jackie is L & P's new neighbor (YAYAYAYAYAY!) so she came over to help unpack/be photographer. First room of attack the kitchen. We did a great job and finished that right away. Lindsey was so excited to have space for everything plus two empty cabinets for "wedding things".

Jackie snapped a picture of me unwrapping the breakables.

We're going to pretend that the "SOLD" part of the sign is there. Look closely and you can spot Mama Jude and Linz in this picture.

After everything found it's place in the new surroundings, Patrick (who had just gotten off work) and Lindsey decided to do a meet-and-greet with the neighbors. I must say they are the luckiest ducks because it seems like all of their neighbors in the homes next to them are awesome. Two of the couples are around the same age as them and her direct next door neighbors have two adorable little rugrats. I really think they're going to love their new home for many years to come. Congrats Winsy Kate and B.I.L.! I love you guys.

Try watching this without crying...

2009-05-01T13:18:00.002-04:00

I watched it three times in a row and cried through it all.

I love my Mom too. I'm just not that creative/musically talented.

Never Ending Birthday Celebrations!

2009-04-29T10:04:00.002-04:00

I'm so blessed to have the friends that I do, but why are all of them born in a two month span? I can't get away from birthdays!!! (Even though it gives me an excuse to get dressed up and head downtown, which is always fun.)

Friday, I got to leave work early and I went to surprise Lindsey and her kiddos at school. All the little kids think it's so cool that they know my name is Jill, so as I walked out to where they were reading, they all yelled at the same time "JIIIIIIIIIILLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLL" and all 30 of them ran up and gave me one big group hug. That made me realize that I could never be a teacher. I wouldn't be able to stop playing with the kids enough to teach them anything. But my sister, however, is a perfect teacher.

Anyway, back to the birthdays. Friday night, after spending some QT with my Mama, I headed over to Kristen's house to celebrate her birthday. Then we all headed out to Federal Hill where we continued the celebration. I don't get to see much of Kristen and Kate, but when I do, it's always an amazing time.

Jessica, Me, Kristen, Kate and Lauren.

Kate, Kris and Me. I call them my "High School Sweethearts".

Then Saturday night, it was Rachel and Katie's turn for birthday celebrations. You may remember Rachel (Shalom, from this post ). Her actual birthday was April 20th but she decided that she wanted to do bowling on Saturday to celebrate. I for whatever reason, didn't take any pictures at the bowling alley, but we did duckpin bowling and it was a great time.

Then, later on that night, Alyssa and I headed down to Bay Cafe in Canton to celebrate Katie Mo's birthday. It was a beautiful night out and we had such a great time. Here is Alyssa and I posing with Katie the birthday girl!

Group shot. Dunny, Kristie, Gert, Alyssa and Me.

Being silly.

Then I wound down my weekend with a nice long walk on Sunday followed by sushi with Andy. Needless to say, I need to catch up on some much needed sleep.

Surprising Hannah

2009-04-23T10:23:00.004-04:00

Happy Birthday Hannah!

April 15th was not only my beautiful parents anniversary, but it was also Hannah's birthday! Unfortunately, because it was in the middle of the week, we couldn't celebrate on the actual day and hadn't had the time to make plans for the two of us to catch up. Well, the day after her big day, her boyfriend Chad sent me a message inviting me to dinner at Bone Fish Grille on Friday as a surprise for Hannah. Obviously I dropped all things and happily agreed. When Nan saw me there she started crying which made me realize how great of a friend she is. We ate, drank and were marry. Here are some pictures to remember our night.

This is Erinn, Nan and Myself. Erinn is a ZTA now!

Here is Me, Chad (Hannah's sneaky boyfriend) and the Birthday Girl.

A day in the train station

2009-04-15T14:05:00.002-04:00

A group of foreign filmmakers have come up with this brilliant idea below. I could watch these clips over and over again. They make me happy.

Because of these two...

2009-04-15T12:04:00.002-04:00

I believe in LOVE.

Happy 31st Anniversary Mom and Dad. I love you both so much and could only hope to have love like the two of you. I truly admire you.

Easter

2009-04-15T10:52:00.002-04:00

Easter was another amazing holiday for the Bennett family. We all headed over to Ken and Jan's house per tradition and ate like Kings. I took no pictures of my family, however, I did take a few. You can clearly see what my focus of the day was.

This is the cutest baby on the whole planet.

No really.

Roxy the Dog felt left out that she didn't have a spot at the dinner table so she jumped right up there. Libby was terrified of her, which makes no sense because Libs lives with Gussell the Beast (he's a sheep dog). Anyway, Libby and Roxy were having a staring contest and of course the second I snapped the picture Liberty looked away. It's still cute though.

Here is Carly Jo with her Easter Egg mug. She was really proud and wanted someone to take her picture with it. So I obliged.

Happy Easter Everyone!

A Day with My Winsy

2009-04-15T10:43:00.002-04:00

Good Friday, both my sister and I had off of work. Needless to say, we decided to spend it together. It was such a nice day and we didn't have much to actually get done so we decided to prance up and down Main Street in Ellicott City for a few hours. The day turned out to be quite an accomplishing one. Linz decided that location is where she wants to have her engagment pictures (finally) taken.

This is me trying to be "artsy" with my pictures.

The best store front possibly EVER! Look closely and you will see some of my favorite things: Natty Bo (I don't drink it, but it's so Baltimore I love it anyway), Terps, The RAVENS!!!!, and ELVIS! Really, does it get any better?

Then we went to lunch at this great place called the Trolley Stop which was so delicious both Lindsey and I ate everything that was on our plates. After lunch we decided to continue walking around to make room in our full bellies so that we could breathe. The pacing didn't last long due to a certain phone call that my sister received...

THEY GOT THE HOUSE! Patrick and Lindsey put an offer in on a house in Elkridge about 2 weeks ago. While we were walking around, she got the phone call from her real estate agent notifying her that their offer was accepted and the house was all theirs. I was lucky enough to have my camera ready. I'm so glad that I got the picture of her face as she found out. Then the day ended with me actually going to see the house. It is beautiful and I can't wait until they move in.

What makes this night different than all other nights?

2009-04-15T10:32:00.004-04:00

Because it was my first Seder! As mentioned before, my friend Rachel, who I so affectionately call Shalom, is Jewish and invited me to her family's Seder dinner for Passover. Naturally I was excited to go because I love Rach and I knew that it would be an experience unlike all others. Cut to the day of the big event and I found out that I would have to read from the Haggaddah (the book read for Seder dinner). Needless to say, I had a small panic attack. But when it came down to my turn to read, Rachel helped me with a few names and I did just fine.

About halfway into the story of Passover, one of Rachel's Aunts told me to cover my wine. "Cover my wine?", I asked. Too late. There was already a plastic frog swimming around in there. Next thing I knew, I got knocked on the head with a ping-pong ball and small little plastic "beasts" were being thrown. These represented just 3 of the 10 Plagues. Once the "Leader" threw them at us, the whole gang (all 35 of us) picked up the access "Plagues" and began throwing them at each other. Once Rach got up to help serve the Matzo Ball Soup, David (her "man friend") and I decided to fill her wine glass with the plastic plagues. I forgot to snap a picture of that but it was quite funny.

This is Maddie. She was my dinner date and she's proudly displaying 2 of the Plagues found on her plate after the throwing.

This picture doesn't look too appettizing but I swear it was. The food to the left was a mixture of sweet potatoes, carrotts, wine and beef briscuit. YUMMY! To the right is some roasted veggies.

Then the night capped off with delicious desserts and some more wine. What a great experience! Thank you Denrich Family!

Happy Birthday, Becca!

2009-04-08T11:40:00.002-04:00

Last Saturday we all headed down to Federal Hill to meet up with the Birthday Girl and her massive crowd of friends at our friend Katie's house. Then out we went to The Stalking Horse and had a great time.

This is Becca riding a horse. Don't ask questions... it was her birthday.

Me, Gert, Katie and Alyssa. I love these girls.

I had to post this picture because of Alyssa's face. It is one of those pictures where whenever I look at it, I will laugh until I cry. She labeled it, "Loner Lyssa" or "Left out Lyssa". Either way, it makes me laugh.

After Stalking Horse, we walked over to Grumpys and enjoyed standing out on the covered balcony. I mention that it was covered because when we left, we didn't realize that it was raining. Alyssa was smart enough to bring her jacket with her to cover her from the rain.

I was not.

Michelle Round 2

2009-04-08T11:30:00.003-04:00

Back in January my friend Michelle came to visit me from Florida. A few weeks ago, she got to come visit me, just for the night, but it was still great to see her face. Even though she was only here for less then 24 hours we sure got a lot done.

Dinner at the rotating sushi bar - Check!
Stop by Crush to visit Julia - Check!
Go to Lucky's Tavern to visit with Ben and Justin - Check!
Go from Lucky's to Mex to Mosaic back to Lucky's - Check!
Federal Hill, Thirsty Dog's, Mad River, hmm? - Check!
Final destination, Corvina, "Chef's" new restaurant - Check!

Seriously, all in less then 24 hours. Needless to say, I slept until about 1 pm the next day.

Here is Michelle and Justin enjoying each others company.

Me, Michelle, Scottie and Jules at Corvinas in Federal Hill.

Michelle said right before she left that she's no longer coming to visit me until I come visit her. She lives in beautiful, sunny Florida! Why am I waiting???

I'm still here!!!

2009-04-08T11:25:00.002-04:00

I'm sorry for the lack of posts. I literally haven't had a change to sit still in the past 2 weeks. I been keeping myself so busy between work and play, but finally a day of rest. In turn, a few posts to catch you up on my life. Sadly, my "attached at the wrist" camera didn't come to use that often over the past two weeks so, not too much to look at however plenty of stories to tell.

Friday Funday

2009-03-23T11:44:00.002-04:00

Friday, Alix, Alyssa and I all took off of work so that we could fully recover/recap our night was New Kids. We met for brunch around 2 at Hightopps and somehow came up with the idea to go bowling.

This is how good we were. (I'm the 100.)

Shoes.

Step by Step

2009-03-23T11:33:00.003-04:00

Thursday night, I took a trip back to the early 90's. Myself and a group of 7 other "Grown-Ups" warmed up our voices and practiced our best dance moves, then headed off the the New Kids On The Block concert. Yes, NKOTB for short. I don't think any of us realized how amazingly fun it would be. Another plus was that the Jabbawockeez from the show America's Best Dance Crew on MTV were the opening act. Alyssa, Alix and I LOVE ABDC and never miss an episode. The Jabb's were the main reason we went to the concert. During a short intermission, the three of us decided to go treat ourselves to a cocktail (trust me this is going somewhere) Well, you have to have cash in order to purchase one such cocktail and if you know me, you know that I NEVER have cash on me. So, I posted my two friends in a memorable spot and headed off the find the ATM. After waiting in the line for about 48902832904820 years, I heard all of these screams coming from my left, I looked over and it was none other than the Jabbawockeez. They were setting up camp right next to the ATM for photos and autographs. I quickly planted myself halfway in the line for cash and halfway in the line for pictures, called Alyssa and blurbed out something along the lines of "Come quick, it's the Jabbawockeez!". Like a gust of wind, Alyssa came running around the corner sans Alix. Once she realized what I meant by "Come quick", Lys ran back, grabbed Alix and we patiently waited for our turn to admire these amazing dancers. Here we are with some of the boys after gushing to them about how great they are and how we never missed an episode, and of course our love for Mario, Lil Mama, Shane and JC.

This picture has a really funny story to it. I'll give it to you in a nut shell, but I really think that you had to be there to enjoy the story.

#1. None of us bought this t-shirt.
#2. I gave my camera to the poor 50 something year old man who was selling the shirts to take the picture.
#3. The camera was set on "Record" mode.
#4. There were two great videos of us posing for the picture and trying to explain to the poor man how to work the camera, when it was indeed my wrong doing.
#5. Taa Daa! We go the picture finally.

Here they are, precious NKOTB. What a great time!

Here's Linz and I enjoying the brightness of the stage.

Ummm... when do they come back?

St. Patty's Day Mayhem

2009-03-18T13:54:00.004-04:00

The Still is a pub in walking distance from my apartment and it's an extremely Irish one at that. So, it's where we headed for St. Patty's Day. It's crazy packed and music blarring but super fun.

Melissa and I cheesin' up.

This is Colleen, a friend of Melissa's from grad school. She LOVES St. Pat's Day. Her "Beer Goggles" said "The Drink's on Me!". Literally, on her face.

Colleen and I posing with a guy who was everywhere we turned. It was like he was a shadow... a very nice shadow, so we took a picture.

Then my roommate got ahold of the camera. CHHHEEEEEESE!

This is Andy.

This is when Andy got ahold of the camera.

So much fun... only 364 days til the next time!

Please note...

2009-03-18T09:34:00.002-04:00

... That my mother was our entertainment at brunch on Saturday. She felt left out that I didn't mention her in the last post.

A Weekend of Green Birthdays

2009-03-17T13:36:00.004-04:00

This is my 30th post everyone!!! By everyone, I mean the 4 people that read my blog :) This past weekend was my sisters birthday and my friend Dunny's birthday AND the beginnings of St. Patty's Day. Therefore, a lot of celebrating insued. It all started Friday when I met Lindsey and her friends from her school at Brian Boru in Severna Park for a festive happy hour.

Then, the celebrating continued first thing on Saturday, my sister and I went to brunch around 10:30 a.m. and ended up not leaving the place until 2 ish. No pictures were taken because we both slinked out of bed, sans makeup, threw on sweats and crawled (almost literally) to brunch, not wanting anyone to notice us, let alone taking any pictures.

After brunch, we went home and got all nice and clean and headed downtown our seperate ways. Linds and Pat went to dinner and they dropped me off at Portside in Canton to celebrate with Dunners for her big 2-5.

It was slightly crowded.

THEN... after we ate a yummy dinner at Mama's on a Halfshell, Gilbert (friend from high school) came and picked me up in Canton, only to whisk me off to Federal Hill where we continued to celebrate St. Patty's Day with friends from high school. There's tons of pictures but I won't bore you with all of them.

Finally, at the end (ish) of the night, I ran into my favorite roommate. Well, she's my only roommate, but I still love her.

The kicker is, today is St. Patty's Day, so the celebration continues tonight at The Still in Timonium with my roommate, favorite Shalom :) and some other pretty cool people. No worries, I'm sure there will be tons of pictures and stories to report.

I may not have found Mr. Right (yet)...

2009-03-09T11:40:00.003-04:00

...But I have found my soulmates. Saturday night was like a gathering of the great. Three of my best friends (not all of them, so don't be offended) and I decided to go out for a night on the town and boy did we have fun.

Here is Hannah loving my snuggie before we went out. I encourage everyone to make this photo the background of your computer. It will seriously brighten up your day.

Group shot. Hannah, Me, Melissa and Alyssa. I am so blessed to have such great friends in my life.

Me and Hannah. Hannah and I have been super close since the day we both started pledging ZTA. We know pretty much everything about one another and never have a dull moment. (Third floor love always Nan!)

Hahahaha... I love this.

My roomie. We've lived together for 3 years (one our sophomore year of college and the past two) and this July, we're seperating ways. It makes me so sad to think about but for now, I'll just soak up every minute of still living together.

Alyssa, Me and Hannah before the nights end.

My Lyssers. She's the type of friend where just a look can make us laugh for hours upon hours. Maybe we have too many inside jokes? Not possible.

I love my life.

A Date with my Daddy

2009-03-03T16:05:00.002-05:00

Friday night my sweet Pops took me to the Maryland Women's basketball game against Boston College. What a great game! We won (I think 92-84?) and it was a great game to go to because they honored Toliver and Coleman, two outgoing Seniors who truly are the stars of the team.

I LOVE having Daddy-Daughter time. We had a great time and came home and quickly passed out from all of the excitement/traffic. Ha ha. LOVE YOU DAD!!!

Baby Christian is Here!

2009-03-03T16:01:00.002-05:00

Cousin Amy, Matt, Sidney and Allison welcomed baby Christian Matthew White on Monday, March 2, 2009. He weighed 7lbs, 6 oz. and is as healthy as they come. We're all VERY excited about his arrival because it's the first baby boy in quite a while. Can't wait to meet you Christian!

(Picture taken by Amy I'm guessing from her phone. I'll post a higher quality photo when I get one. Promise!)

Neglect

2009-02-24T11:15:00.003-05:00

I have been completely neglecting posting updates on my life...

Here is why:

I've been super busy at work (which I'm not complaining about because it makes the day go by SO much quicker). This is our "Lending Library". It contains videos, dvds, books, magazines all about Alzheimer's and different types of dementia, you name it, we have it. Well, I have taken it under my wing to completely gut and reorganize. For those of you who know me, you know that I get very, VERY excited when it comes to organizing therefore, this project has taken over my 9-5 life. I'm giving you the before picture so that you will be able to fully appreciate the after picture. Some day, I'm going to make organizing my living.

As for outside of my nine to fiver, I've been "socially relaxing" and it's been amazing. I definitely caught up on much needed sleep this weekend and can't wait for the upcoming weekend. Friday I'm headed to a Maryland basketball game with my Dad. I'll try my hardest to get some pictures to post. Until then... :o)

A night in the City

2009-02-17T19:40:00.005-05:00

Friday the 13th, my friends and I got all dressed up to see Segway, Alix's boyfriend's band, play in a show called "Phobia" which featured 13 different bands and DJs. It was held at the Belvedere downtown on the 12th and 13th floor and was absolutely an amazing time. Unfortunately, my pictures focus more on my my friends and I then the talent of the bands but, I think my friends are fun to look at too!

A picture of the 12th floor ballroom while Segway plays. Enjoy this shot for all it's worth considering that it's the only good one I got of the stage.

Alix and Eric, the man of the hour.

We had to start the night off with champagne... it's tradition.

Lex and I taking a break from dancing for a photo op.

The girls. Alix, Me, Becca, Alyssa and Claire.

These two lovies make my life happy.

Me and Lyssers. Love her.

A night is never complete without Towson Diner at 4 am.

And this was just the start of the weekend. Saturday night I got to snuggle with the best Valentine ever (See below) and then Sunday funday was Mother-Daughter day. And since we had off on Monday, I caught up on my rest.

P.S. I have to apologize for not taking any pictures of the cutest Valentine. I'm not sure where my head was. Please visit Carly's blog to see the little.

It must be said...

2009-02-11T21:13:00.003-05:00

...that I have the cutest, squishiest, most lovable and kissable, Valentine that I've ever had in my life...

Ms. Liberty Rose. I know. Squish her face if you want. I love her too!

AO Reunion Round 3

2009-02-09T15:38:00.008-05:00

Every year around this time. the Alpha Omicron's, more loved as the AO's, of Zeta Tau Alpha, from Towson U, get together for a reunion to remind ourselves just exactly how obsessed with one another we really are. The first two years we met in New Jersey at Melissa's house and took a limo into Philadelphia. This year we decided to change it up and stayed at McJ's BEAUTIFUL townhouse in Federal Hill and took a "party bus" into D.C., where we went all over the place. Literally, pretty much every corner of D.C.

From left to right, my loved AO's: Hannah, Ashley, Justine, Kelly, Stephanie, Anna, Melissa, Willies, Genna, Meredith, McJ and Me.

Me, Meredith and Justine getting ready for the bus to come get us.

Anna and I taking a self-portrait. She wanted to make sure to get a single picture with each AO.

Our super fun party bus.

Me and Kel proving a point that girls with long hair frequently get straws stuck in them. It was quite entertaining for the 45 minute ride to D.C.

Hahahaha. Me and Nanners playing "Myspace Pic" in the bathroom at Fuddruckers before the bus came and found everyone.

Dancing at Chloe!

The next morning sitting on one of TWO rooftop decks at McJ's house. It was such a nice day, so we sat out there and had coffee and water to recap the events of the night before. After this, we decided on brunch. Delicious.

LOVE YOU AO'S!!!

I love Ray Lewis

2009-02-02T19:19:00.005-05:00

So the Superbowl was this past Sunday and the ONLY highlight of the entire game (boo hoo I'm still upset about my Ravens) ... was the commercial below. Please bask in the dancing Ray Lewis (the one with the hat on). Love it!

Please note that it may be a little blurry because it was shown in 3D. Or just put on some 3D glasses and it will look normal. Enjoy!

25 Things about Jill Renee

2009-01-29T14:22:00.008-05:00

The newest craze to hit the facebook scene is to post 25 random facts about yourself. So, out of the spirit of boredom, I've decided to give it a try.

1. I love my humongous family. Every single one of them.
2. Spanky Ray (the family pooch) is the love of my life. And even though my mom thinks that he loves her most, every time he looks at me, I know I'm his favorite.
3. I have a secret crush on peeling clementines. I have no idea why, but it brings me much happiness.
4. Organizing is my guilty pleasure. Anything, rooms, closets, desks, piles of paper... seriously.
5. My friends make my world go 'round. I can't go a single day without speaking to them.
6. I've recently taught myself to cook and I think that I'm pretty darn good at it.
7. Reading makes me crazy. I'd be perfectly happy if all books were picture books with tiny little captions to explain what they are.
8. I was born to be a mother, and until that day comes I like to steal my friends and family's children.
9. My sister is my very best friend. We call each other Winsy because I couldn't say Lindsey when I was little. And I hope that never stops.
10. Playing the game Sorry reminds me of my next door neighbor and I always loose.
11. I started this blog to keep me entertained at work when it's slow, but now I'm addicted to sharing my blessed life with anyone willing to read about it.
12. I'm still in deep depression that the Ravens were one step away from the Superbowl.
13. Addiction: Reality TV.
14. I cry everytime I see someone getting married (even on TV)
15. My freshman year of college was the most amazing year and I would go back and re-live every moment of it. (I do love my life all the time, though)
16. I'm still hoping that N'sync gets back together so that I can scream like a little girl at one of their concerts.
17. Someday I'm going to have a dog of my own and his name will be Howie.
18. I never realized this, but I have at least one inside joke with each and every friend that I have.
19. When my Dad gets really excited or happy about something, he makes the most pure and happy face. It's engraved into my memory and I'll never forgot it.
20. Every day, I talk to my mother on the phone at least twice. And I hope that never changes.
21. Some of my future "to-do's" include: Learn to sew own clothes, become a photographer and find Mr. Perfect.
22. I HATE mean people and pray for them to get better outlooks on life. It's not worth being miserable all the time when life is so precious and enjoyable.
23. Outdoor festivals such as Towsontown Festival and Great Grapes are the best things ever invented (Please note the picture above, courtesy of Towsontown).
24. I've always wanted to live somewhere like Hawaii or England, just for six months but would never do it because I would miss my family too much.
25. If wine weren't alcoholic, I would drink it every day.

The Original Girls Night

2009-01-26T13:00:00.006-05:00

Me, Katie Mo, Gert, Dunny and Alyssa since the start of our friendship meet once a month to do a "Girls Night Out". Well, ever since we all grew up aka started school again, got engaged, blah blah blah... we've all been really busy and haven't been able to find a night when all 5 of us can get together. Fortunately, Katie hosted us on Saturday night and we decided to stay in since we haven't seen each other all together in such a long time.

This is a picture of one of the many games we played that night. It's called "Things". An example would be, "Things you would never name a childrens book". One person reads everyones response and you have to guess who's is whos. It reminds me of some other game from the past, but I still can't think of the name of it. Anyway, we played a lot of rounds hence the pile of mess you see here.

Here is Gert super excited about her answers. Dunny snuck in too!

Me and Dunny, very happy to see each other.

This is a quick shot of the second game we played. It was called Partini . Another game that provided hours of endless entertainment. I would try to explain it to you, but that would take a long time.

Finally, a shot of all of us. No matter what we are doing or where we are, we always have an amazing time.

LOVE my girls <3>

The weekend of Michelle

2009-01-22T10:26:00.005-05:00

This past weekend, Michelle, a good friend since my freshman year of college (2003) flew into chilly Baltimore from sunny Tampa to stay with me all weekend. After 4 years at Towson, she moved to Tampa to be with her family and finish school there. I am proud to announce that Mich got straight A's this semester at the University of South Florida. I swear, she showed me her "report card". She may have frozen her tush off while she was here, but I know she had a blast doing it. Below is a small montage of what occurred while she was visiting.

Ben, Me, Justin and Michelle, having a good time at Luckys in downtown Baltimore. (After an early evening of wine and cheese at the Melting Pot. Pictures to be added later)

Night #2: Alyssa, Michelle and Me at non other than the Crease

Michelle, Tiffany, Alyssa, Me, Julia and Melissa at the Crease. Tiff and Jules are friends of Michelle from when she worked in Baltimore.

Night #3: Ravens vs. Steelers :( The Ravens lost which is extremely sad, but I won't complain. We had a rookie coach and quaterback and made it to the AFC playoff game?!?! I think that's pretty amazing and just goes to show you how AWESOME we'll be next season. Anyway... back to friends, here's Me, Michelle and Ashley at the Greene Turtle in Towson respresenting our Purple Pride. Michelle was SO EXCITED because she was wearing a jersey. She's not the biggest sports fan ever. But I made her pretend on Sunday for Ravens sake.

And finally, Rachel, Alyssa and Me. My faithful fellow Ravens watchers. I think we only missed 3 games this season. By missed I mean, we watched EVERY game together except three. Hey, it's good luck :)

COME BACK SOON MICHELLE!!!

I found this cool website

2009-01-15T10:27:00.006-05:00

I found this fun website, http://www.photofunia.com/ , where you can upload any picture you want and it automatically puts the picture into the templated images that they offer. It's really fun and cures hours of boredom!

Here are some products of my boredom : )

One more...

2009-01-12T12:57:00.005-05:00

...GAME! That's it! One more win is all my Ravens need to take it to the SUPERBOWL!

I'm sure everyone is getting a little overwhelmed with all of these Ravens posts, but it's good luck and I can't change tradition if it works :) For example, Alyssa, Rachel and I have watched many of the best Ravens games at the Greene Turtle in Towson while we all wore our purple jerseys. Needless to say, we'll be watching our team knock out the Steelers at the Turtle in Towson while wearing our purple jerseys.

Sunday, the big day, we take on the stupid Pittsburgh Steelers for the 3rd time this season. I know Ray Lewis is not going to let me down this time. He's got to be foaming at the mouth for his chance to rock their world. So no worries Ravens fans, we're going to make it!!!

(This picture just makes me laugh. It's Ed Reed, the love of my football life)

WE DID IT!

2009-01-07T12:18:00.006-05:00

WE MADE IT TO THE PLAYOFFS! Totally kicked Miami tush (27-9) in our first playoff game and now we're on the way to pummeling the Titans (Please, Lord, Please).

Aside from a few select fellas, these two guys below are currently on the top of my "Favorite Men Ever" list. I give you Ed Reed, 20, and Ray Lewis, 52. I'm actually, deathly afraid of Ray Lewis because of his fierce tackling ways, but watching him on TV isn't too scary. And today I was told this fun tidbit about Reed: "Three-fourths of the World is covered by water... the rest by Ed Reed." It made my day.

So continue on Ravens... let's take it to the Superbowl!

Happy New Year!

2009-01-06T09:45:00.003-05:00

2009 is HERE! Can you believe it? Already? Goodbye 2008, thanks for all of the good times that you provided. This is my 5th New Years Eve in a row spending QT with my very frist college friend slash roommate, Melissa. Here I am showing her my gratitude for our friendship.

Jess, a ZTA sister of mine was in town.

And one of my favorite men, Drew. No the kiss marks were not from me. I'm not quite sure how they got there.

Welcome, 2009! I hope you are as fun as 2008!!!

This is what happens...

2008-12-29T09:55:00.005-05:00

... when you put my Winsy and I in a room together. We get super silly and ALWAYS have a great time. I was blessed to have my sister with me for 5 whole days! We did tons of sister stuff like shopping, gossiping, and most importantly, playing the good old game of Sorry. Needless to say, my camera came out and here's what we captured.

We couldn't stop laughing at this. Why are our stockings staring at the wall?

Our sweet Mama was trying to stay awake for the fun but quickly slipped into a deep sleep. Here's Linz pointing out the obvious.

I love my Ravens blanket

She made me do it

Finally, little puppy thing wanted to play too. Much like his mother, he fell fast asleep

And yes... my sister and I are wearing matching pajamas. Thanks Jude.

A small Christmas mircale...

2008-12-29T09:45:00.005-05:00

Lindsey and I cooked! Each Christmas Eve is something different in the Thompson household. This year, my grown up sister and I decided to make dinner for our Santa Claus'. After many grocery store drive by's (because on Christmas Eve, many are closed), we finally ended up at Giant and decided on making chicken and shrimp fajitas! Yumm...

Here is Dad, literally drooling on the table. His face was precious!

And now a few shots of everyone enjoying their yummy food.

Cheers! We did it!

Lunch with the Murphy's

2008-12-23T12:44:00.005-05:00

Sunday morning I got to spend time with Diana, Ashley, Patti Jane, Josh, LJ and Bryley.

Diana is one of my closest friends from high school. Now she's all grown up and married with the most precious little boy ever, LJ. I love him as if he were my own.

And now Di's twin sister, Ashley, is grown up and married and also has a little boy, Bryley. I was lucky enough to snuggle him too on Sunday.

Because it's a Tradition

2008-12-22T10:28:00.005-05:00

Gingerbread night... every year just before Christmas, Mrs. Sue invites Kate (her daughter), myself, my mom, Lindsey, Mrs. Robin, Mrs. Carolyn and Megan to decorate our gingerbread houses. I truly think it's what keeps Mrs. Sue going throughout the year, this one night full of stale Neccos from 1998, hardened gummy rings and plenty of Christmas music and gingerbread attire. Each year we all try to bring a "Secret Weapon". Last year, I found a haunted gingerbread house. It eventually turned into an extremely bright colored "Christmas with the Kranks" house. This year, my plan was to do a Feliz Navidad theme... it took an extreme turn. Instead, I did a school house.

Front

Side #1 (a little blurry but still precious)

Side #2

Here are some of us with our finished products.

Like I said, lots of gingerbread attire. Here we all are, wearing our gingerbread man aprons from Mrs. Sue. (Except Erin because Mrs. Sue called her a "beginner". She was told she had to work her way up to our level. Even though Erin/Mrs. Robin's house was one of the best!)

It was a success!

2008-12-22T10:12:00.005-05:00

As noted in the post just before this one, last week was my office's Holiday party. I had a big hand in helping with the day and thankfully, everything went great! There was so much food, it could have been Thanksgiving all over again, plus some. Everyone had a good time and a few laughs here and there. I even put my Charlie Brown tree up in my little bitty office.

My "Secret Santa" was Jackie and she got me a box of my FAVORITE tea from Starbucks.

Here is a shot of everyone talking, eating and being "Merry".

My buddies, Lisa and Bob-o

My Mama would be so proud

2008-12-17T20:03:00.005-05:00

I did it! I successfully made two things without burning down the house. Well, neither item used the oven so it wasn't that hard. Tomorrow is my Christmas party at work and I signed up to bring Taco Dip (made by my roommates recipe) and Peppermint Bark (also learned to make from my roommate, she's Martha Stewart in a 23 year olds body).

I forgot to take a picture of step one of the Bark making but here it is pre-breaking into pieces.

And here it is all broken up and ready for the party!

Yummy taco dip. I only put olives on 80% of the dip because I know that there are some people that don't like them, this way the won't have to pick them off.

And finally, my sink. This was after some clean up.

Just two yummy reasons to look forward to the party tomorrow!

Stay Tuned...

2008-12-16T16:15:00.001-05:00

I'm baking and cooking tomorrow night with Jackie and Priscilla. This should be interesting. I will definitely post pictures of the final products.

Rudolph was there?

2008-12-15T14:16:00.010-05:00

Last weekend, I had the pleasure to spend Saturday evening with the One and Only, Hannah Kirie Nielsen. She is one of my pledge sisters from ZTA (in college) and was my roommate for two years. I love her to pieces but she lives near College Park now and with our work schedules we don't get to see each other that often. So, last Saturday, her boyfriend (and his friends) hosted a Christmas party. It was such a good time, not only celebrating the Holidays but being there with friends. Here are some pictures to commemorate the evening.

ZTA lovin': Kelly, Me and Hannah

Nan, Me and her BF Chad (the host)

This picture says a million words. It really describes each of us perfectly! Ha ha.

And finally, Hannah was taking a picture of me with Rudolph and Chad's brother, Justin, jumped in the picture to make for a perfect Christmas card

The cutest child in the whole world

2008-12-15T13:16:00.009-05:00

In case I haven't already said this one million times, our newest family addition, Liberty Rose Jones, holds the title for "Cutest 3 month old" in the whole world. Here is some proof.

LOVE HER!

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas!

2008-12-11T19:57:00.018-05:00

Christmas starts the day after Thanksgiving in my book. Unfortunately, my roommate and I were both out of town until about a week after. As a result, Old St. Nick looks like he attacked my apartment.

I LOVE my tree. Yes, please be proud, I've already wrapped all of my presents (at least the ones that I have purchased so far).

The reindeer rocks back and forth while signing "Grandma Got Ran Over by a Reindeer". It's the little things that excite me. And Melissa (roommate) is taking great care of her beautiful Pointsettia.

And if you are a woman in the Bennett family, Boyds Bear lovin' runs in your veins. Santa brought me this bear last Christmas and I love it so much, I try to leave it out year round.

Ho ho ho...

Does this mean I'm growing up?

2008-12-11T09:42:00.024-05:00

I remember when I was a little girl, asking why anyone would want clothes for Christmas or why people would be excited to get a new recipe book... you couldn't play with those things! Toys.. toys... toys... that's all I ever wanted. A Fisher Price play house for my dolls, a doll house hamper for my collection of Beanie Babies, and of course one of my favorite Christmas presents I ever got was my "Big Girl Vanity". It looked similar to this,

(Please note that the mirror wasn't actually glass, it was more of a very shinny plastic that gave a reflection similar to one that you get when you look into a spoon)

Well now that I've gotten older, my Christmas list has changed. I've found myself asking for the things "you can't play with". One of my number one things on my list this year is a Swiffer Wetjet. Yes, a glorified mop. Another list topper this year is for my stocking to be stuffed with tooth brushes, tooth paste, shampoo, conditioner, boring, boring, boring, but not for this girl. Those are my new things "to play with". Does this mean I'm growing up?

This one is for the Puppy

2008-12-09T21:20:00.010-05:00

...because his feelings were hurt that I didn't include him in the first post. Spanky Ray, I love you!

GO RAVENS!

2008-12-08T14:36:00.015-05:00

I'll admit, I was the last person to ever think that I would be a football fan, but how can you not be when your home team is the Baltimore Ravens? Every Sunday (or Monday depending on the schedule) my girlfriends and I meet up to watch the Ravens game. And every time, I get more and more engrossed in the awesomeness that is the Baltimore Ravens.

This year I attended my first ever Ravens tailgate and fell head over heals for the insanity that it involves.

Shannon, Dunny, Alyssa and Me walking to the tailgate.

Then, Alyssa (one of my many blessings) invited me to the Ravens vs. Raiders game. Her boss had given her his "Club Level, 50 yard line" tickets. I happily obliged. See below.

And most recently, sweet Scotty suprised me with what he called my "Happy Thanksgiving" present to the Ravens vs. Eagles game. Yet another highlight of 2008!

So here's to you Baltimore Ravens. May you continue to provide hours of endless entertainment and awesome wins. Superbowl... well keep your fingers crossed :)

Because I am Blessed...

2008-12-08T12:43:00.015-05:00

... I decided to start a blog about my amazing life and the family and friends that come along with it. A reminder to myself to be grateful for all that I have instead of dwelling on the bad. I have to start by acknowledging Cousin Carly for inspiring to start a blog. Hopefully, she will begin to stalk mine as often as I stalk hers! (Tee hee) Jumping right into the good stuff, here are just a few pictures of why I love my life.

My best friend... my sister

My amazing parents...

My devoted friends...

...and my humongous family (to which more pictures will be posted at a later date. For now, my favorite little girls)

Liberty Rose

Allison and Sydney (The "Gals")

xoxo