A long overdue holiday update

I haven't updated in a while, so I thought I would...What's been going on - well working a lot and enjoying the holidays. My apartment is decorated and my tree has been destroyed by my callie cat!

Here is Callie in her, I mean my new Christmas tree -

A few weekends ago Patrick and I ventured to the Mayor's Christmas thing, we stayed for all of like 20 minutes, but atleast it got us in a holiday spirit.

Last weekend our friends hosted a party at their house during Lights in the Heights. Lights in the Heights is like a big block party in the Heights (Houston). The guys who lived at the house had the Salvation Army Harbor Light Choir perform and they were so fun! It was a really enjoyable evening, we also went over to Patrick's friend Jason's house for a little while and it was fun to chit chat with him. We then met up with my sister Kate and bro in law and hung out for a while with them. Busy night, but really fun!

I finished my christmas shopping tonight! I have two more days of work until I get a week off!! This weekend is looking really fun - White Christmas musical on Friday w/ Patrick, Patrick's firms Christmas Party on Saturday and our gift exchange, and Nutcracker/dinner on Sunday with one of my besties Alisa. I can't believe Christmas is next week, crazy.

Much Love.

Yay: Christmas!

Dang: making stupid mistaked at work today.

7 Things I Want To Do Before I Die...
1. Read Anna Karinina (i started but can't seem to finish)
2. Visit Greece/Spain/Italy/Austraila/Thailand
3. Learn to speak Italian (i think its awesome)
4. Learn how to take amazing photos
5. Write a children's book and get it published, or a novel and get it published.
6. Visit Boston and Chicago
7. Read the whole bible.

7 Things I Can Do...
1. Lawyerly things.
2. Pass the Texas Bar Exam.
3. Play the clarinet and guitar.
4. Love my family and friends.
5. Take pictures.
6. Put other ppl first.
7. Love.

7 Things I Can Not Do...
1. Touch my tongue to my nose.
2. Touch my heels to the ground in downward dog yoga pose.
3. Sing very well.
4. Remember lyrics to songs or song names and artists. (i have no skill in this).
5. Along the same lines - quote movies, Patrick is great at this.
6. Handle my disappointment well.
7. Go to bed at a reasonable hour.

7 Things I Say Most Often
1. Holler
2. Sup? (to elaine in emails everyday)
3. xoxo (to patrick at the end of his emails/texts)
4. What are you doing?
5. How is your day?
6. Good morning.
7. Okie.

7 Celebrity Crushes
1. Robert Pattinson (aka Eddy Cullen aka Twilight aka obsessed)
2. Brad Pitt (i know but i still think he's hott, circa Meet Joe Black era).
3. Gerard Butler
4. The new guy on Grey's who makes out with Christina
5. Dan on Gossip Girl
6. McSteamy
7. The Bachelor in the upcoming season, you know, the one with the kid who got dumped by the bachelorette for Jessie.

Much Love.

Yay: getting the okay from the the boss to take three days off before christmas!
Dang: how much easier it is to think of 7 things I can't do then 7 things i can do. boo.

The Fun that is Twilight

Yes you read that title right. I'm on the Twilight bandwagon. I was reluctant to join for a while, I never got into the Harry Potter craze. But, I thought what the heck, there are only 4 books in this series, totally doable. I started reading them about a month and a half ago and finished the last book over thanksgiving. I LOVE THEM. Love them. They are easy reads, entertaining, gripping, and who doesn't love a little Edward Cullen. Well, last night Alisa and I went and saw the Twilight movie. OMG I am obsessed. It was so fun to watch the actors they picked to play the different characters and see how they compared to what I imagined, and also the locations and houses and stuff. I know nerdy. But I really enjoyed the movie. I know it hasn't gotten the best reviews, but coming from someone who has read all the books, it was a great adaptation. They didn't change much except for a few minor things here and there. I even recognized lines from the book. I will see this movie again and cannot wait for New Moon!

On another note, nothing exciting to report here. Thanksgiving break was great. Spent a lot time with my family and relaxing. Liz and I did a photo shoot of sorts. I left my memory card in my computer in Houston so these are the only pics I have of the weekend, boo. More will come with Christmas for sure.

This is the face my sister likes to make. She looks cute, I look like i'm about to eat something...

Christmas Card Pic 2008.

Liz and I with the cuz Meggers. She's in 7th grade. I don't envy her.

Us with my amazing Mom!

Last pic of the day! Isn't my sister beautiful!

This week at work has been crazay. Big project due today, luckily it's almost done! The weekend ahead holds some cleaning and spending time with the boy since he's been working more than I have this week and we haven't seen each other. And its super cold here now. Patrick Loves the cold, loves it. I do not share the same enthusiasm, at all. I prefer 70s and sunny.

I know I have been away from the blogger from a while, I apologize. Hopefully posts will be more often. This is my favorite time of the year. I decorated my apartment. Put up a christmas tree. Callie has made it her new favorite toy. She somehow manages to make the limbs on the bottom to rows angle downward and hides her toys in there. I took some pretty cute pics of it, but they're on my camera at home, I'll upload them the next time I post. I love her too much to care that she is destroying my tree. Ah the joy of a kitten.

Much Love.

Yay: Lunch with the boy.

Dang: Messy apartments.

The Fun that is small things.

My day was made today b/c I got back from lunch and there was none other than an electric stapler waiting for me in my chair. I've been using just a regular old stapler but my secretary surprised me with my very own electrical one! I am truly excited about this. I love office supplies, just as I loved school supplies. I'm a nerd, you don't have to tell me this. Its the little things in life though, I tell you what.

My weekand was good. Nothing too exciting to report.

Friday: Hung out with some friends at this divey country bar near my apartment. A country band played and lots of two-steppin took place. Patrick and I did a few whirls around the dance floor, my idea, but still lots of fun! We even managed a dip in there. I know people were impressed. ;)

Saturday: Hung around the aparment. Last week was super busy at work so it was nice spending a day doing nothing. Callie and I watched tv and took naps all day long. That night Patrick and I went to dinner at Saltgrass (always takes me back, I worked there for 2 summers and 2 christmases in College) and then saw Quantum of Solace. Now, I'm a big Bond fan. I watched the movies with my dad growing up and have enjoyed them now as an adult. I did like this one, however, there were moments where I might have drifted to sleep, a little...Which shouldn't happen in a Bond movie. I thought there were moments where it could have been more exciting, could have explained more, or could have been more entertaining. Overall I give it 3 stars (out of 5) on the Sara index.

I do have to say, next to Sean, Daniel is my fave Bond. He's smokin', with those blue eyes...

Sunday: Patrick had the day off so we got to hang out all day, and it was awesome! We watched the Cowbotys beat the 49'ers with some of his friends and then went over to his friend's house and hung out, chatted, hot tubbed it, and relaxed. I had a great time and I was glad that Patrick felt a bit relaxed atleast for a day. Bankruptcy is apparently a pretty busy field right now in the legal arena,...duh. I'm still super proud of him for working so hard. Good job babe.

This week is a short week! I'm going home to my parents house on Wed. Turkey day on Thursday, and then hanging out with friends and family the rest of the week. It'll be nice to have a few days off from work/life.

Much love.

yay: my new robe smelled like roses.

dang: paper cuts.

The Fun that was my week in a nutshell..

This week has flown by and been super busy. Just the way I like it.

Monday - the usual work work work, then I visited with my sis for a little and then went and helped judge Moot Court intra team competition. It was really fun being back as an alumni and LAWYER!

Tuesday = COLDPLAY! My friends, it was AMAZING. The show was full of awesome features and I just love their music. It got me a through a lot of studying in law school. I went with Patrick, my sister and bro in law, and my bro in law's brother and his gf. We had such a good time. Coldplay even sang in the crowd right underneath us. It was awesome! I recommend the show to anyone.

On Wed - Work, and then met up with friends for a drink because my friend Hunter (my good friend's Hubby), was in town for his 18 day leave from Iraq.

Thursday - vegged and loved it. Watched the thursday night line up and drank some wine, then went and saw the boy.

Friday - well that's today! Not sure about plans tonight, hanging out for sure.

I seriously cannot wait for Thanksgiving break! Well, not really a break, but I'm going home to see the fam and such. So pumped!

Much Love.

Yay: A good job at work.

Dang: this weird pain in my side right now.

The Fun that is me getting serious..

I normally don't rant and rave on this blog about serious things. I like to keep it surface oriented. BUT I read about this today and just could not believe it.

In Nebraska, like most other states, they have a Safe Haven Law. This law allows a parent to theoretically drop off a "child" at any hospital -

"The law currently states: "No person shall be prosecuted for any crime based solely upon the act of leaving a child in the custody of an employee on duty at a hospital licensed by the State of Nebraska.
"The hospital shall promptly contact appropriate authorities to take custody of the child." "
- Courtesy of http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/americas/7728942.stm

The problem is that people are liberally construing the word "child", which has led children up to the age of 17 to be dropped off. They are going to re-approach this law soon and I hope that they put some limitatinos on the word "child". I can't even image being a 17 year old child who, as a teenager, acts out - rebels - argues - generally acts like a teenager - only to be taken to a hospital by your parents, and dropped off to be under the care of the State. Seems like an indirect way for parents to get rid of unruly children and therefore not have to be a "parent". Cop out to me. I understand the idea behind dropping off newborns under this law. Id much rather see a newborn dropped off at a hospital then left in a dumpster when the mother realizes she doesn't want to keep the baby. But teenagers?

That's my little rant for the day. Not sure why that struck at me so hard, but it did.

The fun that is swearing in!

I'm officially sworn in! In Texas, when you pass the bar, one must pay fees and be sworn in before one can legally practice law. Well yesterday I was sworn in! The process involved standing before a judge, holding my right hand up, and repeating an oath to protect the constitution and laws of the united states. I felt very proud and accomplished to be standing there, knowing that all of my hardwork in my life had brought me to this moment. The judge who swore me in was the judge I clerked for after my first year of law school - Judge Hancock of the 113 District Court. My friend Adam also clerked for her and he was sworn in at the same time as myself.

Now, as soon as the State Bar receives my fees/dues/taxes and my membership app. I should be all set to go and will get my big license to hang on my wall from the Supreme Court of Texas!

Other than that, this week has been pretty uneventful.

I'm sad because NBC has decided to cancel Lipstick Jungle. I actually really enjoy that show. Boo. They moved it to the dreaded Friday time slot and it was just downhill from there. What will I do without my weekly dose of Kirby?

http://justjared.buzznet.com/2008/11/13/lipstick-jungle-canceled/

I also have a climbing kitty! Callie has discovered her love of climbing EVERYTHING. Nothing is unclimbable to my loveable 5 month old Callie. Her favorite place to climb was this chair in my dining room. After many attempts, she managed to manuever all four legs ontop of that tiny railing at the top. Now her favorite place to climb is onto my dresser with all of my jewelry. Not so much my favorite place for her to climb.

Much Love.

Yay: Flowers from my parents for passing the bar!

Dang: the sleepiness that is 3 pm in the afternoon.

The Fun that is PASSING THE TEXAS BAR EXAM!!

I PASSED, I PASSED, I PASSED, I PASSED, I PASSED.

I'm a lawyer! An attorney at law! I never have to take another test! OMG. I can't explain the relief and happiness I am feeling right now.

Time to celebrate!

http://www.ble.state.tx.us/Results/pass_0708.htm

That's the pass list - check under Banks - you'll find me there!

The Fun that is waiting for results..

Well, its 12:25 pm. I'm eating a sandwich at my desk, refreshing the bar results page every minute. As are about a million others, considering, patrick sent me an email at 11 am saying that since 9 am the website had 70,000 hits....i'm nervous, extremely nervous, can't stand it nervous...

The Fun that was Last Weekend

I too am going to try to post everyday this month. I realize it is Nov. 5, but I'll go to Dec 5, how about that?

Last weekend was as fun as I was hoping it would be!

Friday: Rolled into Wacky Waco around 8 pm after sitting in Houston traffic for a while. I met up with Elaine, Brian, Emily, and Kasey at Rudy's. A homecoming tradition. Ate some tasty bbq and then it was off to the bonfire. We missed most of the pep rally because it apparently started earlier than we though. But we did get to hear that ZTA/ATO won Class A Float. Being a past Float chair of ZTA I was very happy for them. I know the hard work that goes into making those darn floats. We wondered around the bonfire for a while. I met up with one of my old roomies from college, Candice. It was so great to see her! After the bonfire we went to Crickets for a few drinks and then realized how old I am because it was 1230 and i was ready to go home. Stayed at the Motel 6 in Bellmead with the Flores' and the Massenburgs. I was packed in tight into a bed with the Massenburgs. Thanks Leslie for sharing with me! It was quite a sight.

Saturday: Woke up super early to go to the ZTA Homecoming Breakfast. It was really fun but strange not to recognize any of the active members and to have the Composit with me as Rituals on Exec not on the wall anymore, only my senior year composit. After the breakfast we ventured down to the parade. It was the parade. What more is there to say? Haha. I did purchase a new baylor t shrit and sweat shirt and some baylor coffee, so i'm ready to go with my BU spirit. We walked around campus a little bit more and then I left around 1130, stopping at Bush's on way back to Houston for some lunch. mmmm.

Patrick and I headed to the Woodlands that afternoon for Jen Wu and Nick Floyd's wedding. Jen and I went to law school together and I know Nick now because of being friends with her for 3 + years. We checked into our hotel room and got ready. The wedding was beautiful! It was a this resort and it was outside as the sun was setting. We had cocktails after the wedding to wait for the reception to begin. It was super fun night. A good majority of my law school friends were in attendance. We danced and hung out till about 2 am that night. I had a great time! Jen looked amazing and they both seemed very happy. I was glad to be a part of their celebration.

Sunday: I met my parents and sister and uncle at my apartment. I showed them my new apartment and they met my cat Callie. After that we decided to drive down to Galveston to survey the damage. My older sister Katie and my bro in law Steve lived down there for about 8 years. It was an interesting journey. Some things have been rebuilt and others have not. You can see the water lines on a lot of buildings. The Seawall seemed to be thriving but the Strand was desserted, very sad. I hope they can put things back together. After galveston we went to Goode BBQ and met Patrick there. Its my fave bbq place in Houston. mmm. Then we just went back to Kate's house and watched the end of the Cowboys losing to the Giants, sad, and then watched tv. A great visit with my family!!

That was my weekend of fun. Hopefully this weekend will be fun too. That all depends on how today or tomorrow turns out. What am I talking about might you ask, bar results. That's right. Today or tomorrow I will know my fate. And i think its an understatement to say i'm nervous. My hands are sweaty and I feel really jittery and I'm checking the website every five minutes (anyone like to trade places with me?). Trust in the Lord Sara. That's what I need to be doing.

Until tomorrow,

Much love.

Yay: seeing so many friends this past weekend.

Dang: waiting, and waiting, and waiting, and waiting ....

The fun that is this weekend!

I'm so glad it's Friday!! This weekend is going to be great!

Today after work I am driving to Waco for the first time in two years! I'm going to meet up with some college friends for dinner and then do all the homecoming festivities. Baylor has changed a lot since I graduated 3 1/2 years ago. I'm excited to see it. There is just something about going back there that makes me so happy.

Tomorrow is my friend Jen Wu's wedding. This is going to be an a-mazing wedding. Its at a resort center. One of the best parts is that about 32 friends from law school are attending. We have two full tables of 16. I cannot wait to see everyone. Its been since the bar exam that we've all been together like this. Fun is sure to ensue. I also bought a really cute dress from WHBM yesterday that I'm super excited to get to wear (you'll be seeing it a lot in pics this season).

Sunday I get to spend the day with my family! My parents and uncle from NC drove down last night. I had dinner with them and then they are going to spend time with Kate today and tomorrow and then Sunday with me! I'm excited for them to see my new apt and meet Callie Cat.

Busy weekend full of such fun things. Its funny to be that they are happening this weekend b/c the next two weekends i have like nothing to do. Ah well, suppose that's life!

If you're going to Baylor Homecoming tonight, give me a ring!

Much Love.

Yay: Cooler weather.
Dang: Being so sore for my personal trainer yesterday that I can barely move my arms...

2nd job I wouldn't want to have...

Crane operator, you know, the guy who sits at the top of the crane and moves it around, no thanks to that either.

(note - all these observations are coming from staring out my office window)

Job I wouldn't want to have...

Window washer in a 70+ tall building. No thanks. I'm a bit afraid of heights and I think I would freak out. Just looking at them now out my window makes me anxious.

I'll post more pics of Callie when I'm at home. She's wonderful!

Super excited about this weekend -
- Baylor homecoming
- Jen Wu's wedding night extravanganza
- Seeing a bunch of college friends
- Seeing a bunch of law school friends
- Parents coming to visit

Busy weekend, but lots of fun ahead!

Much love.

Yay: Setting my living room up finally.
Dang: Bruising my wrist while putting together furniture.

A little teaser ---

I picked up my new kitty today, her name is Callie Banks. She's a three month old dometic short hair mix, she has brown, orange, black, and white fur. I am in love... I'll post more later when I am home and have more pics. For now, this is the first pic I took of her with my phone at the Humane Society --

Weekend Update

This weekend was great! Here's a little update:

Patrick and I celebrated our one year anniversary with dinner at Mark's. A really really nice restaurant in Houston. Very romantic! We ordered a bottle of wine from Oregon and at the end of the meal they brought us a dessert that had happy anniversary written on it and an anniversary candle for both of us to make a wish and blow out, I wonder what Patrick's wish was... Don't worry I saved the candle. He surprised me with a beautiful pearl ring from james avery. He picked it out all by himself and it is just lovely! I sure am lucky to have such a wonderful man in my life.

On Saturday I took lunch to Patrick, he was working all day, poor guy. And then went to Jen's Bachelorette party. We started at Hotel Zaza, and then headed to El pueblito for dinner. Its a really cool restaurant with cabana style seating. It was a beautiful night outside so it was perfect for it. Then we went to howl at the moon for a little while. I left and met up with Patrick and my sister and bro in law. I thought it was really cute that my bro in law called Patrick to hang out knowing I wouldn't be there, yay!

On Sunday, Kate, Steve, and I went kitty looking. I found an adorable 3 month old calico at the Humane Society and put in an application to adopt her! I'll find out in 3-5 days if I can take her home. Its pretty much an absolute but just technicalities. Gave me a chance to go to Petsmart and buy kitty supplies. I've never owned a pet like this, welll other than my fish Phredd, who is still alive, he's pretty low maintenance. I can't wait to get her this week, no worries i'll post pics once I have them! Sunday night Patrick and I ordered pizza, and then went to see Apaloosa. It was actually pretty good.

All in all a great weekend.

Much love.

Yay: new kitty

Dang: mondays

One Year!

Today is officially Patrick and I's One year anniversary. This time last year, we were hanging out at my apartment, and got into a discussion about what to call each other, to which he said I'd like to call you girlfriend, and ditto for me, but boyfriend, haha. One year later I am still calling him boyfriend and he is still calling me girlfriend. :) He makes me happy and I'm excited to celebrate tonight our first year together!

This is me with a big update.

Well hello my friends. Its been a while hasn't it? I tell you what, this past month has been well..interesting to say the least. Why you may ask? Well a multitude of things.

For one, it was my first full month of real world work. I think that I am pretty used to it now, I get tired around 7, go to bed at midnight, wake up and repeat the day. It's weird that now I am here i wish was a student with such flexibility in my day.

Second.I bought my first couch! i have been wanting a new one for a while because all I have had is a lovely little loveseat. It just wasn't doing the job. Last week my sister and i went to Star Furniture and i found the one I wanted! So I bought it. It was delivered today, and as I write this I am sitting on it and it is lovely and poofy and wonderful. Part of it is a chaise lounge, which is great, because well i love to lounge. I will post pics of it once I get my living room set up, which I can do now that I have my couch to work around! Whew!

Third. I joined 24 hour fitness to get fit! I'm going to go work out after I get finished typing this. Goal is to lose some pudge.

Fourth. I got a new job. I know, new job? Don't you already have a job Sara? That's what you are thinking. And you're right, I do already have a job. And my boss right now is fabulous. She is so nice and caring and has been a pleasure working for. I just don't like the work, i need more structure (i know right) and just felt myself being pulled in a different direction. In August after i took the bar I applied to a firm in downtown Houston called Hill, Rivkins, and Hayden. They do commercial litigation, insurance, maritime (like ships/shipping, ocean), energy, oil/gas, transportation. They primarily do court room stuff. Which is exactly what I want to do. Anyways, I interviewed with them almost three weeks ago. I had a second interview last Thursday, and I got an offer today, an offer I just could not turn down! I'll be starting there on Monday, and finishing up with Nancy on Friday. It saddens me to leave her and Lynae (the paralegal) because they are both so lovely and it has been fun working and chatting with them, but sometimes, as i have found, even that is not enough to be happy. I am going to be challenged and put to the test in this new job, but I am ready. I didn't go to law school for nothing! I'm super excited and definitely think this was a God thing. I'll update after I start working there on Monday!

That's about all the updates I have for right now. I'm slowly getting in a routine and slowly figuring out how to handle my life now in this adult world. yikes.

Ok, off to workout, can't put it of anymore!

Much love.

Yay: seeing a best friend of mine last Friday!
Dang: snag in one of my new shirts.

This is me after a year.

Today is the first date anniversary of Patrick and I!! We aren't celebrating it because next month is our real ONE year anniversary. But I'd thought I'd pay it a little attention with a blog post. One year ago today I went on my very first date with Mr. Patrick Thompson. I'll describe that night a little bit. A few days earlier he asked me if he could take me to dinner. Now Patrick and I had been friends from all of law school. Great friends. One of my closest guy friends I had. I could joke around with him and laugh with him, watch silly movies with him, grab drinks at the Velvet Melvin with him, and just spend quality friend time with him. I started to develop feelings for him along the way of our friendship but never admitted it to myself because we had such a good thing going. Well the summer hit and I couldn't deny what I felt for him and I admitted it to Alisa in July. But then freaked out and quickly suppressed the feelings. It wasn't until mid August when he backed off from our friendship that I let the feelings re-emerge. He asked me to get coffee with him one day during our class break (we had three classes together in a row on M/W). We went and talked and he told me that he had feelings for me and that he couldn't deny them anymore. Being the weird-o that i am i just didnt' say anything. I wanted to say so many things to him but I hadn't figured them all out in my head yet. So i stayed silent. And it wasn't until three weeks later that we talked again at a bar with our friends there, and he said he wasn't going to give up. We ended up talking in my car till 5 am that night (with class the next day), that was when he asked to take me to dinner and that was when I accepted. And I'm glad I got over my crazy insecurities of taking the next step and went with my gut feelings. That was a year ago monday! That brings us to today, a year ago. I remember being really nervous. Not sure what to expect but knowing it was going to be great. He picked me up and had purple flowers for me (which is my favorite color). I hugged him with sweaty palms and a heavily beating heart and smiled. We went to dinner at Mi Luna, which is a tapas restaurant in Rice Village. He ordered a bottle of wine and then we preceded to have the best first date I had ever had. Having gone into this as friends, dinner was just like we were having dinner as friends, but with an added extra fun element and hand holding across the table (i know gag, but i like it!). We talked abuot different things then we had before in other dinners, such as what we wanted in a partner and in a relationship and I just remember smiling. Afterwards we walked around rice village and then met up with some friends for a drink. After that he took me home and we hung out at my apartment for a few more hours talking. I kept wondering when the first kiss was going to happen. Well we were sitting there and then he leaned in and it was great! yay! And that was our first date :) You'll get more next month on the 17th when we celebrate our first year together! I'm very happy and have an amazing man by my side...

This is the night he asked me to dinner a year ago :)

And this is us now, a year later :)

Loves.

Yay: Finding dinner at CVS.

Dang: Waiting to get back to normal.

The Calm after the Storm

I am safe and sound. I'll describe what the past few days have been like. Friday night around 12:30 am we lost power. It went out a few times and would tease us by coming back on but ultimately went out and is still not back on. Went to sleep around 1 am. Woke up at 3 am when we got hit by the middle of the storm. It was really scary. The wind sounded crazy and we looked out windows and trees were sideways. I didn't sleep the rest of the night. Between the storm and no power it was miserable. At one point we went outside in it to secure the gate that was banging below and a grill of patricks that had come loose and was also banging. We woke at 7 am to no power still. Outside there were trees and tree limbs and leaves everywhere. Roof shingles were all along the ground. Across the alley from patricks townhome a tree was uprooted and thrown against the side of a house. His townhome seemed to be fine. The rest of the day was spent hanging around. We left around noon to go check on my apartment. Everything was fine there, other than the normal trees and stuff uprooted. I have no power there either. Across the street from my apartment a building had no sides and there were file cabinets on Richmond. A roof from an office building was pulling down a power line. But right next door the building sustained no damage. The velvet melvin bar lost its awning. We headed back to Patrick's place after deciding that Houston is pretty much crazy right now with damage. In the afternoon we set up my laptop in patrick's car and watch Old School. At about 6pm we drove around again to just enjoy some air conditioning. At about 7 pm we got a call that my sister down in Pearland had power!! So we of course loaded up and stayed there last night. That is currently where I am. We went back up a little while ago to check out my apartment again. All my food is gone. I have water leaks all along my ceilings in both rooms and down the walls. Still no power. I grabbed a weeks worth of clothing and threw away all my food and headed out. I hope that I'm not one of those ppl who will be without power for a month. If so, well then I'll just be living down here in pearland. We are safe. I pray for all those that are not, and all those who cannot get back to their homes. We are lucky considering the other damage. As of righ tnow I'm not sure when Ill be heading back to work. My boss called today and said there is no power in our building and windows had been broken. My cell phone is workin and I have access to email and internet now.

Thanks for the nice messages i've been receiving the last few days. I'll be ok. Life just sucks right now. But we'll get back on our feet.

For those who think itd be fun to experience a hurricane, trust me, it was not and the next time one comes I will be evacuating, period.

Loves.

Update Two from Hurricane Central

Hello friends! Its 8:35pm and landfall should take place later tonight. I'm currently sitting in Patrick's living room, watching Pitch Black movie, because I couldn't handle watching the news anymore (which I have been doing all day). James is painting, yes painting, and Patrick is cleaning the room (because he decided if the power goes out it would be hard to get around in there, to which I replied, that's why we have flashlights..:) ). We will probably be awake when it makes landfall, being as how we are nervous, well I am atleast. I'm not entirely sure what to expect. other than the latest forcast has it going thru the west end of Galveston..which means thru downtown Houston...where we're at... So far we still have power (obvi since I'm writing this), just thought I'd let y'all know we are "hunkering down" and "sheltering in" (as seems to be the key phrases) and avoiding "certain death".

Loves.

Update!

Hello Friends and Family. I just wanted to update all of y'all in case y'all were worrying. I will be "hunkered down" at Patricks townhome from now till well its over. If you need to get ahold of me please call or text me or send me an email. I am not evacuating. I will be ok. We have lots of flashlights and non perishables. I think ppl forgot to go to CVS to get food, because there was a lot left, luckily because Patrick is at target right now and he said everything is gone. Wow. I tell you its really weird right now in houston. Normally on a Thursday at 6 pm the highways would be packed, but they aren't. The gas station next to my apartment complex has plastic wrap around all its gas pumps. Closed for business I guess. And the shell across the street has little yellow bags on their pumps. This is for real. This is happening. I pray that it turns at the last minute but the news isn't optimistic about that happening. Tonight I am going down to my sister's in pearland (she ended up not having to evacuate and they are hunkering down as well) and she's making dinnner for some of us and we are gonna have a hurricane party. I really want to see her right now. I'm not going to lie, I'm nervous/scared/anxious. I filled my bathtub and sinks with water. I'm hoping when I get back to my apartment there isn't a tree through the side of it...

Once again - just so y'all know where I am, I will be at patricks townhome from now till whenever. Call me if you are worried. Please just pray for all of us. Most of Houston is staying put.

Loves.

Yay: ...
Dang: obvious.

Ike Ike go away come again another day.

I thought I would give my blogger friends out there an update about what is going on in case you were starting to think, "Oh Sara, she lives in Houston, isn't that where Ike is heading?" You would be correct. It is currently headed to Freeport. Which is south of Galveston. Freeport is also the place where my sister's in laws have lived for the last 50 years or so. They live directly on the bayou and with the 20 foot storm surge they are expecting to have substantial damage. If you could say a prayer for them today and this weekend that would be great. They of course have evacuated to their apartment in Houston. My older sister and brother in law live in Pearland, TX which is in Brazoria County. However, they are not currently under a mandatory evacuation. But Kate is an ER nurse and right now has to work and bunker down at the hospital for the weekend. Which scares me, because she'll have to work in Clearlake, which is also expecting a storm surge and flooding.

My plans are to currently stay put in my apartment. I have bought bottled water and flashlights, and I have canned foods and some munchies. If it ends up we will be without power for days I will leave and go up to my parents after the storm blows thru and if there isnt too much flooding going on. Im going to fill my bathtub up and fill other sinks with water and bottles with water to take baths and use the toilet when the water goes out.

I'm hoping it won't be as bad as they're prediciting. I cannot turn away from the news. My boss sent us home today and there is no work tomorrow. I'm waiting to hear from patrick about what his law firm is going to do. And then hoping he and I can bunker down in my apartment for the weekend.

i will post more when I know more. Please be praying for this area of Texas as we await a storm that they aren't quite sure how bad it will be or where it will exactly head. As the hours progress the news keeps getting worse. This will be the first hurricane that I have been thru. (I evacuated from Rita and it didn't end up hitting us anyways). I will be ok. If you are worried just give me a call, or text me, or email me.

Loves to all.

Yay: broadway posters from patrick from NYC! he's so sweet :)
Dang: Ike.

This is me a huge fan of the cowboys!

Today begins one of my favorite times of the year, NFL football season, but more importantly, DALLAS COWBOYS football season. I am from Arlington, TX. I grew up cheering for the Cowboys, and loving every minute. My dad is a huge fan and I have some great memories watching the games with him, and he sure does get into them. Luckily I have found a man to date who also shares the same love of the Cowboys that I do, probably more so than I do. Which makes watching the games every Sunday even more fun!! Today I'm going to go watch them with my bro in law and sister, both avid fans, Steve is about the same level as Patrick. Yay for Cowboys football!!

Patrick is off to NYC to begin his law firm job. He will be back on Wed! We had a great date last night. I let him pick everything that we did. He brought me a dozen pink and orange roses (my favorites!) and we went and had dinner at this place called Seoul Garden. It's a korean restaurant outside the loop that he loves! I didn't love it so much the last time we went, but I think it was because I ordered the wrong food, because it was amazing last night. I got korean bbq, beef, and it was the best tasting beef i've had in a while. We had a great time and I even was adventurous in trying a lot of different foods. After dinner we went and saw Pineapple Express. It was hilarious. We had a great night and I was sad to see him go today, but I know he'll have a good three days in NYC!

Well, I suppose I should head down to Angleton.

Much Love.

Yay: The patrick chair.
Dang: birds.

This is me unpacking.

I'm now in my apt. Which means I have to unpack. I don't mind unpacking as much as packing. It feels more productive putting things away. Today I am going to start with the kitchen and the bathroom and work some on the bedroom. I would like to be able to cook in my kitchen this weekend and well I need to be able to find things in my bathroom. I'll probably work on my closet too so I can find clothes for work.

Last night I had a lot of fun! I went to the Counting Crows/Maroon 5 concert with Lauren and her two good friends from her Masters program. We had such a great time! The weather ended up being just amazing. It was cool, almost chilly. The show was great! I love Maroon 5, I could listen to them all the time. And well Adam Levine is hott! After working all day though, man was I tired. I crashed right when I got home. Patrick had some good man time with his roommate last night which is good because they haven't seen much of each other this past month, even with living together.

Tonight should be really fun! Patrick was utterly amazing in helping me move the other day. So selfless and just made such a huge difference to have him there. I could not have done it without him by any means. He even cleaned my bathroom for me and paid for the movers. To thank him for being such an awesome boyfriend I am taking him to a snazzy dinner tonight! Not sure where we are going yet, I told him to pick something, it will probably be this Korean barbeque place he likes to go to and we haven't been back in a while. It was tasty the last time we went and I know he will enjoy it a lot. I'm excited to spend time with him and go on a date :) He leaves tomorrow for NYC for training for his new job at Weil, Gotschel, and Manges. they are a new york based firm, and he is working in the Houston office. I'm very jealous that he gets to go to NYC, because as some of you might know NYC is one of my favorite places in the world to visit! Hopefully I'll get a chance to go up with him some weekends... keep fingers crossed, haha. I know he is nervous about his new job and everything, but I know he'll do great! He is such a hard worker and super smart!

Other than that, the job is going well. I'm ready to be back in a routine though. I wish i could snap my fingers and my apartment would be unpacked and decorated. Patrick and I and his roommate James are going to join 24 hour fitness. Which should be good, because I definitely need to work out more. And there is a gym right next to my office so there's no excuse to not be able to go by after work.

As I write this I am laying in bed still. Yes, it is almost 11:30 am, but hey I needed some good relaxation. I suppose I should get up now and use my Saturday productively1

Much Love.

Yay: Dates.
Dang: blinds not closing and crazy birds on the roof waking me up at 7 am on Saturday morning.

This is me all moved in!

I am now writing this blog from my new APT! I'm so excited. Today went as smoothly as it could and i'm exhausted. This isn't a long post because I need a shower ASAP and Patrick will be here soon so we can go have some Chili's, mmmm. I will definitely post pictures once everything is unpacked and decorated.

Much Love.

Yay: Amazing boyfriends.

Dang: lower back pain.

This is me remembering how much I hate packing..

Why did I decide to move? I could have lived in this small apartment a while longer...Those are the thoughts that have crept into my head this past weekend. I am moving. As y'all probably gathered from the last post. Patrick was out of town this weekend visiting old friends in Amarillo and having some good ole guy time, and I stayed behind and didn't go anywhere fun so I could pack. And pack I have. I still have about 1/4 left to do of my apartment. Like pack up the kitchen (which I will do on Wed. night) and finish up my closet, take clothes to good will, do laundry, etc. I feel like I am running out of time now, because of my new job (yay!!) I won't have full days anymore to pack. Just nighttimes and Thursday morning before the movers get here. I'm taking a break now, and will later to watch Gossip Girl premiere (yay!) and then spend the rest of the night till I head to bed packing and then the rest of my free time this week packing. I am thankful the movers aren't going to be here till noon on Thursday because then I can stay up late on wed night packing and get up early on Thursday (did I just say that?, oops). I am proud of myself though, I have thrown things away! I'm what you would call a packrat, i save everything. Well I finally decided I was saving things I wouldn't look at, well ever, and so I have thrown a lot of stuff away and I am donating a ton of clothes to good will. I have about 10 trash bags full of stuff if that lets you know how much crap I have. I apparently did not go thru anything when I moved two years ago, oops. Not going to do that again.

On the other side, I am going to work tomorrow! Yay! But whereas Friday I wasn't necessarily ready, tomorrow I will be. I've gone to the store, and know what I'm going to where and feel a bit more put together and not so scatter brained. This week is just going to be a whirlwind, luckily it's short. Because once I get moved in, I have to unpack (my second least favorite thing to do). But it will be super nice to be in a new apt and a bigger one at that with more room for all my stuff!

This weekend did have its fun moments though. I got to hang out with a few friends I haven't seen in a while. Seems that once you are no longer a student and everyone is working its harder to see friends on an everyday basis like we used to. Guess that's part of growing up (those that have been working for three years now are prolly laughing at me, but hey I'm new to this..)

Guess I should get back to packing!

Much love.

Yay: Gossip Girl returning.
Dang: running into a box and cutting open my foot, awesome.

This is me with a few updates..

I have had a big change in the past few days, a good change, one I have been waiting for... A JOB!!! That's right my friends. I am now an employed member of society! Thursday I had an interview with a woman who is a solo practitioner who does Family Law. She was looking to hire a new associate to relieve some of the load she has right now and well she hired me! It was a whirlwind two days though. I had the interview at 4 on Thursday, received an offer at 6:30 pm and started work at 9 am the next day! CRAZY! I'm sure glad I have this three day weekend to get my head on straight and prepare for a real live full time job! Also, I need this three day weekend to pack up my apt. I'm moving to a bigger apartment one floor up on Thursday and I am no where near ready. Luckily I hired some movers today to come help me move and patrick and I will finish the rest (like carrying my clothes up there). The cable/internet dude will be out the same day AND my new boss is so flexible and nice that she gave me the entire day off to move! Btw she called me today to tell me about some sales she saw on new furniture, so sweet! I'm sure I am going to learn a lot at this new job and can't wait for it to really begin. I like that I have something to plan for now, and when I went to the grocery store today I had things to buy for, like lunches.

Well time to go get ready for dinner over at my friend Maggie's house. Then its to bed early so I can get a full day of packing in tomorrow! Life is good. Thank you for all the prayers. God truly does open windows.

Much Love.

Yay: JOB!
Dang: packing. its not necessarily my most favorite activitiy. hence the procrastination.

This is me at a Panera Bread in Houston

Houston FINALLY got a Panera Bread in their downtown. Only took, well forever. And of course, they would open it after I graduated from law school. The closest one I could use was in Pearland, but it was too far away to visit on a normal everyday basis. But if this one had been here I for certain would have visited it a lot to study for law school. But alas. Now I'm using it for its internet use. Because I don't have internet at my apartment. I am moving next week and will hopefully have internet then.

I suppose I owe a little update on what has been going on lately. This past weekend I went up to Arlington with Patrick to visit my parents. It was the first time that Patrick and I hung out with my parents without the other siblings around (not that I don't love being them being there, it just creates a different dynamic). We had a great time! We got there on Thursday night. My mom made dinner and we watched the olympics. It was nice to relax (because I obvi haven't been getting enough lately, ha, its all i do now). On Friday we met my parents at Paris Coffee Shop in downtown Ft. Worth. Its a landmark in Ft. Worth. I have been going there since I could remember. I remember sitting at the counter, eating breakfast with my dad, talking about whether or not Baylor was a good choice, and 7 years later I was back there again (ive been back since then) having finished Baylor and Law school. Crazy how time flies. After lunch we went to the Fort Worth Stockyards to show Patrick around. He had a great time. We bought cowboy hats, had some beers, tasted some wine, and really enjoyed ourselves.

That night we ate dinner in downtown Ft Worth at Mi Cocina. It was yummy! And we went to the Impressionist exhibit at the Kimball. Impressionism is my favorite form of art. The exhibit was wonderful. I recommend it to anyone who loves art, and its half price on Friday nights, even better!

On Saturday we hung around the house mostly, watching Olympics, and went swimming. That night we met up with Elaine and Brian, Brian, and Leslie and Michael at Gloria's in Dallas. We ate dinner and then went to a pub to hang out for a while. It was a really great time. I miss these guys a ton and wish that we lived in the same city so I could see them all the time.

Sunday we went to church and then headed back to Houston after I bought my NEW computer! I love it btw, now if I just had internet...

As I type this I still don't have a job. I have a lead on something that sounds interesting to do, but I'm not going to post it on here in case I jinx myself or it doesn't end up working out, which has tended to be the case and let's face it I don't like getting my hopes up nor being disappointed, so I will post something if something comes from it, how about that?

Other than that, I've been packing up my aparment and going thru things and throwing lots of things out. If you know me well, then you know that I have a lot of stuff. Just stuff. I save a lot of things, such as college notebooks and lawschool note, and various other things. I'm trying to turn over a new leaf in this new phase of my life, getting rid of junk and keeping my apartment less messy. I would love to have people over in my new place, to do that I need to get rid of a lot of stuff. Luckily my new apt will be much bigger and actually have a separate living room and dining room. I'm an "adult" now, whatever that means, and I need to start living like one.

Well I suppose I should call Comcast to set up internet, and get to working on my apt, which means leaving Panera. Soon to become my second home...

much love.

Yay: ex-boyfriends who turn out to be really helpful.

dang: packing.

Back in Action

Well I'm back. I got a new computer this past weekend! It was much needed and I guess I didn't realize how crappy mine really was until I have started to use this one. I decided to go with an HP and it has proven to be really nice!! So I guess we'll see if it continues to work well!!

R.I.P Dell Latitude

My computer that got me thru law school, many long lectures, papers, endless chats, emails, uploading pictures, music, and lastly the bar exam, has bit the dust. Surprisingly, with all its slowness and problems with opening and such, it still managed to work well. That was until yesterday, when I somehow managed to spill water on the back of it and well in the words of the guy at the Geek Squad "fried my motherboard". What does that mean my friends? Well it means I am computer-less. None. It's dead, kapoot. Luckily they were able to save my harddrive. And as the guy at the Geek Squad handed it back to me, just to make me feel even more cool he said "here's your $2,000 paper weight". Thanks again. You may ask, how then Sara, are you writing this blog? I'm using Patrick's. This will be the only access I have until I get a new one. Posts then might be few and far between until I get a new one.

Which brings me to my next thought - what computer should I get? I'm debating on getting a Mac...any advice?? Suggestions? I could use all the help I can get. its been a while since Ive had a new computer...

Ok, time to go make dinner for the boyfriend.

Much Love.

Yay: Patrick is back!
Dang: see above.

Bar Trip Pictures

I decided to post some pics from Patrick and I's trip to Cancun. (gasp i know two posts in one day...) Sorry it took so long and sorry I was lazy directing the blogging community to Facebook. Patrick and I really had a great time in Cancun. I am smitten with this man and can't wait for him to get back from his trip to Colorado, New Mexico, and Utah (I talked to him today and he was in Hanksville, Utah, wherever that is...).

Uncertainty

I'm a planner. If anyone knows me I like to know exactly where my life is heading, where I'll be, what I'll be doing, etc. But now...my life = uncertainty. I'm not a student and I'm not qutie a lawyer (and hopefully will be come November), I'm in the land of uncertainty. I don't have a job. Which is hard to admit to the blog world. But I don't. I'm looking. Everyday I send out more resumes. The problem is a lot of law firms won't hire until November when they know you are licensed. Boo. Where does that leave me, well continuing to send out resumes. Maybe someone will bite. I have good grades and a lot of experience and I know I will do a great job at a law firm one of these days, its just a matter of finding that job. I came back from Cancun knowing I didn't have anything to plan for. No school starting to buy new clothes and school supplies, no job to buy new suits and work supplies. But i'm managing. I had a few freak out moments this week, but Patrick assured me this is a normal feeling...one that a lot of people experience, but then why do I feel alone? Alas, I know the Lord has a plan for my life. I know he will lead me somewhere and I need to trust in that. But why is it so hard sometimes? In a way I wish I could snap my fingers and be there, sitting in my office, with the job I've always wanted. But I guess life doesn't really work like that. Until then, say a little prayer that God will open a window for me somewhere...

Much Love.

Yay: Hanging out with my sister!
Dang: blisters. boo.

Done and done.

I finished the bar almost two weeks ago. And man am I glad it's over! I survived it and hopefully come November I'll have good news. That's all ya get about it :)

On another note, Patrick and I had an amazing time in Cancun! We left the Friday after the bar exam. The resort we stayed at, Sun Palace, was couples only and fabulous! Truly enjoyed having drinks brought to me, eating anything I wanted, and laying by the beach/pool for a week. We spent a lot of time relaxing and sitting and reading and sunning and just enjoying the pretty weather! If you want to see pics, check facebook :). It was definitely much needed break and I finally let myself relax after the most stressful summer of my life. Spending the week w/ Patrick was truly enjoyable and much needed after not seeing much of each other because of studying this past summer.

Now i'm back in Houston. About to start job search 2008. Need to clean my apt, go to the grocery store, and do some more relaxing. I'm moving to a new apt in Sept, so should prolly do some summer cleaning.

It will be strange this fall not going to school. I'm so used to beginning school every August. Now i'm kind of in a big grey area. Hopefully I will find a job soon and get to this new life as a real person and no longer a student.

Much Love.

Yay: getting to see Lauren's new house tomorrow and the olympics!
Dang: Patrick is gone for the whole week :(

One Week

One week, that's all. Until the biggest test of my life, one week. I'm not sure if I should be happy or scared or nervous or excited or whatever. All i know is I am glad I have one week left for two totally contradictory reasons 1. because I am not ready for this test, i'm closer than I was three weeks ago, but not there yet, i'm hoping I am by Tuesday, the 29th at 8am 2. because in one week, well really like a week and a half counting the test, it will be done, the test I have been preparing for since May will be finished and I will no longer have to have it in the back of my mind (well that is until it gets closer to Nov when the scores come out) or feel guilty about living my life and not studying and i will no longer have to study and i get to go to Cancun w/ my boyfriend!!

This will be my last post until after the bar. I really need to be focused on this stuff every minute of the day that I'm awake and not eating this week. I too, like Jen and Elaine had a hard time focusing yesterday. I gave up around 8 pm and relaxed, drank some wine, and watched a movie. It was much needed and I am focusing a lot better today.

BTW there is a hurricane or tropical storm right now, headed for South Texas. Let's pray it doesn't decide to turn directions and head for Houston or I might be taking the bar in Arlington instead...i'm not thinking evacuating right now would be the best use of my study time...

I am looking forward to taking the Bar exam. I know that sounds funny, but I really am. It means that I am one step closer to being a real attorney and practicing law. Its all about perspective right? But there are a few things I'm looking forward to in the coming weeks after the bar:
- Mexico w/ Patrick
- Spending time w/ my boyfriend other than when we study together, which I just don't qualify as quality time. Period.
- Watching movies - Batman, Mamma Mia
- Hanging out with friends
- Sleeping in
- Looking for a job
- Visiting my family.
- Helping Lauren w/ her new house (She and Dave closed today in Pearland!)
- Reading books for fun - i'm reading all the Sue Grafton - Kinsey character books, they are good!
- And numerous other things I can't think of but i'm sure will be fun.

Well that is all my friends. You'll hear from me on the other side of the bar exam. A lot less stressed and with a lot more time.

Much love.

Yay: Lauren brought me dinner for tonight, such a good friend!
Dang: Bar.

My life in pics right now.

I should be studying. And you are probably thinking, why aren't you studying. Well because every now and then I like to take a five/ten minute break to do something that I want to do. And that's what I'm doing by posting these pictures. There you have it :)

Here are some pics from last weekend at Boerne. Mostly just pictures of Patrick's adorable neice and nephews. I love them. These belong to his brother Travis, his neice Noel is a little shy for the camera.

This is a little piece of Heaven in the hill country of Texas.

This is Ashton. Adorable.

This is Tristan. Also adorable.

This is Victoria. Adorable.


THis is a picture of Travis, Patrick, and Patrick's friend from Amarillo Dusty (he's really tall). Note the hat Patrick is wearing - he plans to wear it the entire time we are in Mexico, ha.

Here is also a pic from my sister Kate's birthday dinner of Patrick and I:

And of course a pic of the birthday girl and my bro in law!

This is where I sit and study everyday from 9 am till 7 pm. Atleast I can stare out the window... (sidenote- this table is normally not in this position, I put it here for the bar studying)

And this is a picture of the area next to the table. I attempted in the first week to keep things organized, but that has failed as you can tell. The blue and red books are the FUN that is the MBE (multiple choice) and the binder holds all the notes. Don't worry I have two more of those binders.

I guess i suppose its time to get back to studying search and seizure. 10 1/2 more days of studying to go!