The Perks of Being an Aunt

I love love love love love love love love babies! Or anything little for that matter. And Ashley Phenix has just delivered the cutest little girl in the world! (At least in my humble opinion.) I was able to go visit little Madilyn and her family in the hospital this morning, and now I really want one of my own! :) Below are a couple pictures I was able to take while visiting. The Phenix family is the cutest family in the world, and I am one proud aunt!

Madilyn Day Phenix

He didn't quite grasp the fact that he has a little sister. I still love him equally :)

I know, the cutest!!

My beautiful sister!

Did I mention that this baby is stinkin' cute? ;)

Technological Musings

So I almost labeled this post "A Crisis," but decided that would be be a bit dramatic, but... I did just lose my phone :( I am seriously one of the most forgetful people in the world, and I really have been doing quite well keeping track of my belongings. I'm guessing I somehow let my phone slip and fall on the ground while coming into our apartment, and now it is gone. I hope whoever took it instead of turning it in to the manager enjoys it because I LOVED MY PHONE! Anyways. Now, I know all is not lost and I can get a new one, but it's still a little disheartening not to have a faithful side kick in my back pock at all times.

It is ironic that yesterday--when I thought I just forgot my phone at home--I was thinking about how dependent we are on our technological devices. And seriously, all would agree that they probably rely too much on their phone/computer/iPad/etc. I remember the days when it would suffice to simply call my boyfriend on the house phone once a night. No texting, no picture messaging, just one call. Are we so dependent--not so much on our phones--but on feeling connected every second of the day? I still felt connected to my boyfriend who received the once-a-night phone call. So what's the difference? Are we no longer confident in our own thoughts, opinions, and ideas? Perhaps in this ever changing world we need to feel that we're not alone. It's a rather bizarre thought to have.

I didn't have a very high-tech phone. I only used it for calling, texting, and an occasional picture message. It just feels strange to not instantly text my sister when I have a question or text Carl during the work day to see how he is doing. My phone allows me to be connected to my family and that's all that really matters to me; they are my number one priority in life.

What are you connected to?

Girl's Night! (and Carl)

We have been living in Kentucky for... 27 days now! We've pretty much settled into our apartment (it's a lot bigger than our previous one), got into the groove of our jobs (it's amazing we're not school anymore), and have connected with my family once more! We had Annie, Angela, and Autumn over last Friday night to hang out with us. We don't see them much because of our work schedules, so we thought it'd be good to reconnect with them. Carl is an absolute HAM with the girls and they love his crazy sense of humor almost as much as I do. Hey, it's what caught my eye in the first place! You know what I am talking about, ladies ;) We had a really fun night with promises of sleepovers in the future.

Big eye!



Big nose!






Of course, Autumn had get in on the fun!



The girls!

 

My favorite!





A January Celebration

I've really been into creating mini movies lately. I'm not sure what the cause is. When talking to Carl about it, he stated that I've always been into creating movies and reminded me of mine and Erin's past time of filming and piecing together movies. Good thing my husband remembers my past better than me ;)

Last month you were able to witness the Virgin side and their silliness as displayed in our talent show; this month you will receive the Day side! My parent's 27th anniversary was January 4, and I decided to document the occasion. I know that was 2 weeks ago, but I never got a chance to film Carl and myself that night. I meant to do it later, but our life has been crazy busy as of late, so we're still not on the film. You'll have to live without us this time! Here's a 5 minute recap of the night:

My favorite thing about our family is the love we have for each other. You might think that 10 intermediate family members PLUS 3 in-laws PLUS 2 and half nieces/nephews makes your love rather thin. On the contrary, it grows ever deeper. Our love shows in a variety of ways, but it's always present. It's what I love about living here in Kentucky.

Resolving

A new year is so exciting!! Call me lame, but I love the excitement that the change of the year brings. Watching the ball drop is a must for me on New Years Eve, and one day I will be there in person! Preferably when Lady GaGa is not there. Last year was my first time ever making official resolutions, and I only thought it would be fitting to continue the tradition. Carl and I make "couple" resolutions too; this year has some pretty challenging resolves! (1) Work out every day of 2012 (minus sick days) (2) Continue to learn sign language (we are fluent in the ABC's!), and (3) Finish Jesus, The Christ together. As for my resolutions:

• Keep a journal in which a record self-discoveries about myself. I really enjoy blogging and sending my thoughts out to the unknown, but I want something more secrete and contemplative. This is my solution.
• Be more financially minded. My parents are an excellent example to me of how to keep tabs on your income and spending. We are planning some big events to come in 2012, and I want to be smart in our finances.
• My third resolve will be disclosed in a future post.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

A Virgin Christmas

This Christmas was my first year away from my family. It was quite a novelty to say the least! The Virgin family has traditions for what seemed like each night of the week including a white elephant, a nativity scene, and a talent show. Now each of these events have unspoken specifications (or so it seemed) so Carl led and guided me through the experience. The talent show, for example, means show the family any uncanny skills you possess! It was a spectacular night full of surprises and laughs. Below is a 12-minute bit of some events from the night!

Carl and I decided to make up a family song for ours and it ended up being a big hit! Well, Carl made up the song; I assisted. You might not be able to understand all of Carl's lyrics (he didn't have time to practice) but it's full of family experiences and inside jokes. Also, to clarify Carl's ending verse, I am NOT pregnant. We just wanted to tease the family!

ENJOY!

'Tis The Season!

Who knew December would sneak up this quickly? I love December 1 because I feel justified in celebrating Christmas! This is my absolute favorite holiday; I love the feeling that colorful lights, giving of gifts, and celebrations with loved ones bring. Carl and I have been listening to a variety of Christmas music and we are constantly saying, "Ooo, I love this song!" or "This is my favorite!" I decided to list my top 5 favorite Christmas songs in no particular order (more for my sake than anything)!

1. Oh, Holy Night

2. Angels We Have Heard on High

3. The Christmas Song

4. Carol of the Bells

5. What Child Is This?

Christmas music makes me so grateful that I have a voice to sing!