Talk about taking forever to post...

I can't believe how long it's been since I posted. Things have been going well, nothing earth shattering to report or share. Our Christmas was very sweet - the perfect Christmas for a newlywed couple. We spent Christmas Day hanging out, and then had a bunch of people over for dinner. It was nice to have a houseful of people, just like I would have had if I was home with my family.

It was strange not being with my parents and at least one sibling for Christmas. It was my first Christmas away from 'home'. Kind of sad actually. But, I got through it, and kept myself busy.

We received a LOT of awesome gifts this year. Something new for me, was gift baskets from Harry David. COLOR me in LOVE. OH.MY.GOSH! The Moose Munch popcorn is my all-time favorite thing. Actually, it's a tie between the popcorn and pears. They were SO good! I decided I HAD to find out how to make caramel popcorn like Harry David. I made a batch - and it was mighty tasty. It wasn't the same as Harry David, but it was good. Steve ate plenty. I ate plenty. My office ate plenty. Steve's co-workers ate plenty. It's good stuff, but definitely make once a year stuff. TOOO good to have all the time.

New Years was spent at home. We don't know a lot of people yet, so we stayed in together. It was sweet, and I was asleep (I know you're shocked) by 11:30. Steve was wonderful and woke me up at midnight to kiss me and then put me back to bed. He's such a stud!

Hmmm other than that, there's not a whole lot to chat about. I celebrated the "anniversary of my 29th" birthday on the 14th. As my gift, Steve's helping me pay for a trip to CHA-Las Vegas at the end of the month. It's a HUGE hobby and craft tradeshow. It's THE show to go to each year (although they have another one in the summer) and all of the manufacturers release their latest and greatest products in hopes that retailers will buy them to sell in their stores. I can't wait. It is SO much fun - and I get to see the girls I get to design with. It is a BLAST!!! I can't believe that in 14 days - I'll be in VEGAS!!!

I managed to get a Texas drivers license with my new married name. Man, that is a HUGE major MONDO deal. Who knew that getting a Texas license was such a big deal and that changing your name would make it an even bigger deal. Butm after the DNA test, background check, and promisig our first born child - I now own a Texas State Drivers Permit. A permit you ask?? Yes, in Texas you don't get your actual license at the BMV (or DMV, or DPS... whatever). They have to MAIL it to you. Yes, mail it to you. So, in 3-4 weeks, I'll have it in my hands and will find out how stupid and silly my license photo turned out. Thrilling isn't it?

We're not getting any rain in Texas. In California, it's ALL rain. Steve's Dad's house got flooded - it's pretty much a total disaster. They have water damage in every room, and the new wood floors are warped beyond repair. Man, that sucks. Why can't we get rain here?? I'd love that!

Some of you have emailed asking where you can find some of my design work. I have a seperate blog (www.heatherales.blogspot.com) where I post and ramble about my creative work, projects, and other garbage. You're more than welcome to check it out, if you're interested.

I think thats all for now. We're doing well. We're trying to eat healthier. We're trying to not eat too much sugar (we'd be better if I would stop making cookies, and other fun sweet treats). We're trying to not eat out so much (we're doing great there), and keep the house clean (not doing so well there - but we're getting better!!!). Ahhh lots of things to work on!! :)

All our Love,
Heather (& Steve)