We love Fall!

I have been horible at keeping up with blogging lately. Life has just been busy!
Fall is a favorite around The Geels' household. Logan and I like to snuggle up and watch movies (and fall and winter is my favorite time of year to stay in and spend quality time together.) Not to mention...fall TV is the best. This year our favorite shows are: Revenge, Once Upon a Time, Duck Dynasty, and Nashville. On the nights that we stay in, I usually try to make a new recipe or sometimes an old favorite. It makes it fun because it's like a mini-date night. I seriously LOVE the time i get to spend with my husband. This weekend we woke up early on Saturday and went for a drive in the country. The trees are starting to change and it is so gorgeous up here.  We may have finished the morning by stopping at Shipley's for a donut or three ; ) (so glad to have a Shipley's in NWA.....grew up on these donuts, and it's my favorite donut spot!)

Last month we did a photo shoot at Crystal Bridges to benefit the Humane Society! The professional picture will be published in the book they issue each year (should be out next month.) We had a lot of fun and I took a few pictures myself.

Our day to day seems to always be filled with work, Bible study, hunting, house projects, car projects, the dogs, date nights, traveling to Little Rock, and getting together with friends.

I am hosting Thanksgiving this year (it's become the new tradition since we got married). I'm really looking forward to having both of our families together this year. Logan's B-day is the day after Thanksgiving this year, so I am having his birthday party early (otherwise that would be too much in one week!)

I always enjoy decorating for fall....and this year I did make my annaul trip to "the pumpkin lady" and my mom and I also made our yearly trip to Paul Michael (which I went more Christmas crazy than fall this year.)

This post is more for me to look back on.....nothing special, just our day to day!
Happy Fall.

WIFEY WEDNESDAY!

I subscribe to Proverb 31 ministries for daily devotionals. I love getting them. They are relativly quick reads and they always pull at my heart and challenge me! My mom sent me a link to one today...and it happened to be one I missed. It was perfect and came at the best time. It's title was "People Pleasing" and it was exacty the confirming words I needed to read. Over the years I have worked on not "spreading myself too thin" and I have to say I've gotten pretty good at it! I'm a planner by nature, I like organization and I like everything to fall into place (HA!) Being able to decide what I can committ to and what I have to step away from at times can make me feel like all I say is "no, no, no." The truth is I often do say "yes" but God has laid it on my heart over the past year that saying"no" is equally important...and as a wife (and for many of you as a mother) it could be one of the best gifts you give your family. Our hearts should be ready and willing to say yes to the Lord and yes to a friend in need, yes to socializing, yes to projects, yes to signing up at church and work and in  the community..... but we also have to step back  and know that when we give ourselves and our time to one thing, something else always suffers. I promised myself a long time ago that my family will not take the backseat to my to do list and committments. As a wife, it is my responsibility to my husaband to not put so much before him...that I have nothing left to give! After reading this devotional...it did my heart so much good because I often have a guilt complex about letting others down by not saying "yes." This put it all in perspective and re-affirmed in my head what I know to be true. I hope this link article is a breath of fresh air for you....it certainly was for me!

It is ok to say no and not feel guilty about it! AMEN!
http://www.proverbs31.org/devotions/#.UEdU40wKfZg.email

One Year Anniversary Weekend

To celebrate our one year we went and spent the weekend in Eureka Springs!
Loved the drive up...stopped and did some antique shopping, went to down town Eureka and went to all the shops, ate ice cream for lunch, went to Ermilio's for dinner and stayed at "The Crecent Hotel." We woke up Sunday and had a morning at the Spa at the hotel and then had brunch in their ballroom before our drive home! I loved our weekend away...it was the perfect 'get-away!"

One Year Ago Today....

I cannot believe it has been a year since we said "I do". Where did
that time go?? Seriously I feel like our first year of marriage flew
by in the blink of an eye! I guess time really does fly when you are
having fun!
I feel so incredibly blesed to have married such a beautiful, kind
man! Logan is my better half, that is for certain! I love him more
and more each day....and even though we fight like cats and dogs and we
have some tough days here and there....I wouldn't trade a second of
this life with him. We are not perfect...and marriage is work...anyone
that says it's not is lying! (I promise). But, one thing is for
sure.....the love I have for my husband is so strong and is
unbreakable! God has set an example of how we are to love each
other....and I strive everyday to mimic His great love (I fail
miserably) but I crave to love others like He loves us....especially
my husband! I am beyond grateful for mine and Logan's life together
and I cherish the vows I said one year ago today!
Logan thank you for loving me whole heartedly and for doing it so
well! You make everyday fun and are such an encourager in our
relationship! You definitley have your work cut out for you...but you
knew that the day you asked me to be your wife. You love me so
well.....thank you for making our first year together so wonderful!
All my heart.... all my life,
Haleigh

Heavy Heart

Tonight I cannot sleep....and I write this with a heavy heart. I have cried a lot of tears since about 5:00 today and honestly couldn't say why.  I couldn't quite pin point why I've been so on edge and emotional....and then it all became very clear.

I haven't shared this with very many people, but about a month and a half ago I received a letter in the mail from the Attorney General. It was notifying me that the man that hurt me two years ago was appealing our court case. It was of course a very scary thing to read and my heart may have stopped beating for a moment as I read the words on the page. I had a very emotional conversation with my husband and my mom that night....and may have even woken up a dear detective friend to try and make sense of what I was reading. After a day or two of grieving, I decided to not be upset about the possibilty of his appeal making any headway, that I would tuck it away and not think of it again..until I had an answer. Why worry about something that I have no control over.(Easier said than done...but I have manged to not think too much about it this month.) My family and husband have been very encouraging and my sweet dad called the Attorney General the next day and found out that we should expect the Supreme Courts answer to the appeal by the end of this month.

I haven't really paid attention to the date...but we are closing in on the end of June...and I think that explains my un-explained anxiety for the past few days...although I am just now able to put the pieces together. I'm scared....flat out scared. I feel that I know deep down in my heart ...what the result will be...and that i will look back on my fear....and realize I had nothing to be afraid of at all. But waiting is agony. I want my answer, so that this time next week, I can be celebrating once again another victory.

My prayer is simply that God will not let the courts eyes be blinded by words on paper that hold no depth or meaning. That they will see that every man and woman on that jury last April, saw what everyone else in that court room did: A man ....guilty for destroying another's sense of safety and security. A man who if not put away for life,will strike again and again and again. It is my prayer that this will all be over soon and that once again justice will prevail full force and with a vengence. I hope you will pray this with me as well. We fought a good fight, and I will fight it again if I have to...(but I really don't want to...which is what makes this so difficult)

"The LORD will fight for you; you need only to be still." -Exodus 14:14

ONE YEAR AGO TODAY.....

Today, April 27th, marks the one year anniversary of our successful victory in our Jury Trial. One year ago today, a man was put away for life (196 years to be exact) for crimes he committed towards me on May 16, 2010. I will never forget that feeling as the judge read the final decision of the jury. My heart leapt out of my chest…and honestly all I wanted to do is break down right there...because all the fear of him being released....built up over a year…could finally be over. I did not break down …(if you are familiar with court rules, you are not supposed to show emotion until the jury is excused.) I remember my mom squeezing my hand so tightly (I knew she could hardly stand it) and I remember Logan taking my hand and holding it between both of his and kissing me on the forehead. When I stood up my dad gave me the biggest hug and we didn’t say anything and then he whispered in my ear, “It’s over sweetheart. God is so good!” Truly one of the hardest weeks (emotionally) of my life, but the Lord saw us through. He was there in that courtroom and he has been with us since that day! Today I write, out of complete gratitude, not only to my Heavenly Father, but to all those who came to support us, who defended us(prosecutors), protected us (detectives, LR Police, and my victim witness coordinator) and for the men and women on the jury, who changed my life forever that day! I am so grateful for the friendships made and for the sovereignty of God. To Him be the glory!




“In all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” –Romans 8:28

“Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” –Joshua 1:9

“The joy of the Lord is your strength.”- Nehemiah 8:10

Adore Decor

It seems I am always busy planning in my head all things I hope to do to our house one day! I find decorating so incredibly fun, relaxing, and I feel that the items/style you pick for your home should be the very essence of yourself or those you live with :)

I have so many projects that will be years in the making....but I have to say things are starting to really come together!

I once read: "Decorate your home to make it a place of beauty, because beauty raises life above mere existence." I love that!

It really got me thinkinkg about my style and things that make me feel welcome.I included pictures of bits and pieces of our home to go along with a few decor tips and the things that scream "HOME" to me:

1. Paint changes everything! (I'm one to talk, have I picked up a paint brush since I've moved in our house????.....uh NOPE...but I will, and I almost have some of our colors finalized..I was fortunate that our walls are a neutral gold, so I've not been in a huge rush)...seriously though, Paint will change a whole room and if you hate the color, it's not permanent you can ALWAYS change it!

2. Monograms- So classy and traditional, but nothing makes something as personal as a monogram! I realize you can go overboard, but I think a monogram here and there is perfectly fine! We have a flag with our initial on it outside, I have had a shower curtain monogrammed in our guest bath, I have a beautiful cookie jar (it's my fav) in our kitchen with our initials and we have hung our monogram initials in our master bath! I will probably be adding a few more around the house (maybe some towels, or a pillow or something on the patio). monograms are a wonderful, southern way to say WELCOME HOME to your family!

3. Create a spot that is just for you. This is very important for both men and women. Whether it is a room or just a space. For example...I have a tray on our dresser that I keep all things that are important to me...and that I tend to use daily...purfume, rings, watch...etc! It makes that space reflect you and your personality. (Whether it is yourself, you husband, child or even dog....everyone in your home should have a space..that is unique to them.)

4. Burlap-(It's a huge trend right now)...go in any store...(Pottery Barn, Cobble Stone and Vine, Vivid Design, Ballard Design, etc.) Everyone is showcasing burlap in one way or another! My sweet mom surprised us and had a table skirt made for our family room (she bought the burlap and then the lady at Cynthia East made a great skirt with a cord trim). Bulap is also classic and to me, very french! (here's a perk...it's also quite inexpensive. ) I plan to have another table skirt made out of cream burlap for our bedroom very soon!

5. Heirlooms- I love taking something special from a parent, or grandparent and showcasing it in our home! Decor should tell a story. It may say something about your personality or your style, but to have sentimental pieces throughout...cause your guests to wonder what it means and can become quite a conversation piece. I have several heirlooms around the house (several crystal pieces from Logan's granny and my grandmother Lady, One of Lady's Broaches that I used as the center of one of my frames, and Logan has a few items from Germany from his grandmother on our bookshelves). It is special to know why we chose to place them in that spot and their signifigance. I have a crystal clock and jewelry box from my Grandmama as well...very dear to me. I have special items from my parents as well and I plan to showcase several of those ...that can be passed down to our children.

To me, what makes my house feel like our home is first of all who I share it with, the memories we have and will create there, and the overall appearance.

Decor does something for me; completing a room or finding that perfect item for a certain space gives me so much satisfaction I can hardly stand it! I want our home to be a mix of old and new, Southern and French. I want it not only to reflect our style, but our collections in unique ways. It is important to both Logan and I, that all who enter know that our family loves the Lord and can sense His presence in our home. That is not only shown through your decor choices, but also our hospitality. Hospitality is the message we give another person about their value. Logan and I try very hard to roll out the welcome mat for all of our guests...becuase it is important to us. Logan always jokes that "Haleigh is the kick off your shoes and relax kind of hostess....BUT don't forget to use a coaster...and always ask if the towels are for decor only or if you can wipe your hands on them....and never EVER...sit on top of the bed spread!) Hahaha...he likes to tease me....although he pretty much nailed it on the head. ; )

Happy Decorating!

WIFEY WEDNESDAY

I had typed up a "Wifey Wednesday" that I planned to post for today...it was on decor/what makes a home. A very good/appropriate topic for today's theme, but after reading a story from a woman who's blog I follow, I decided that I needed to change my theme for today.

I follow a blog called "Musings on Hope" and although I have never met Lee (the wife and mother who writes the blog), I have followed her journey and prayed for her daughter Maggie and her family for quite some time.

This weeks posts really touched me and pulled at my heart strings in a way that very few things do. I wanted to dedicate my "Wifey Wednesday" post to Lee, she is a wonderful example of a wife (and mother) who has selflessly given 100% to her family and the well being of her daughter. She faces day to day struggles that bring tears to my eyes when I read them, yet she trusts in our Lord,and praises God for his unfailing love and mercy. I admire her so much, and if you would like to hear Maggie's story you can read about it on " musingsonhope.blogspot.com ".

Please join me in praying for this sweet family and the wife/mother who gives her all, even when she feels she has nothing left to give!

This wifey post is dedicated to Lee, thoughts and prayers are with you, and you are touching lives and encouraging others in a way that you will never know!

WIFEY WEDNESDAY

I have had several Wifey Wednesdays (all recipes) but for some reason couldn't find the time to post them...so this Wednesday I'm combining them! I have recently felt that I don't have any major recipes to share this week! You will probably notice a trend to these..(They are all EASY). Working outside our home full time, I am all about the easy, but good ones! Enjoy

Last week I made Pot Roast...and it's my "old trusty" (my mom's recipe). Funny how "mom's recipes" are always the ones that never fail us!

If you want a very simple but yummy pot roast then try this:

POT ROAST:

Rump Roast or Chuck Roast (it's a matter of preference)
Mrs. Dash
3 Beef Bouillon Cubes
Water
Garlic Powder
Worcheshire Sauce
onions
potatos
carrots


Brown you roast on all sides in a skillet with a little oil (not much oil though)

place in baking dish with lid (I use my largest corning ware)
pour water a little over half way and drop in bouillon cubes. cover roast with Mrs Dash and garlic powder....shake in some worcheshire sauce.

Bake 300 degrees for 6 hours (It's the only way to do it....slow cook)

add Onions and carrots and potatos last hour.

If you run out of room.....sometimes i just add the onions and carrots and make baked potatoes or roasted potatoes instead!!!
YUMMY!

Can use left over meat to make BBQ (shredded) or Vegetable Soup!


This week I made corn salad (my cousin Kelli's recipe)
It's so easy and fast!

CORN SALAD

2 cans of shoepeg corn (drained)
1/2 cup cherry tomoatos cut in half
1/4 cup chopped green onion
1/4 cup or so of mayo (you don't really notice the mayo...it jsut makes it all go together well)
garlic salt to taste.

Mix all together and refridgerate at least 1 hour (to get cold)

We ate ours as a side dish to boiled fresh shrimp!

FRIDAY FAVORITES

Happy Friday!

Today I was writing in my prayer journal and I was praising God for a prayer that He has answered....I had prayed it yesterday and about the moment the words left my mouth...it seemed to have been answered and so fully. It was a reminder that God hears the prayers of His people and that I simply just need ask. I began to write the following:

ASK AND YOU WILL RECEIVE

SEEK AND YOU WILL FIND

KNOCK AND THE DOOR WILL BE OPENED.

In my journal, there are verses at the bottom of each page...and I usually don't read them until the end because my arm is in the way of it when writing. As I moved my arm....the following verse was at the bottom of the journal page:

"But seek first his Kingdom and his righteousness; and all these things will be given to you as well." -Matthew 6:33

And on the back of the journal page at the bottom was this verse:

"Ask and it will be given to you, seek and you will find, knock and the door will be opened to you." -Matthew 7:7

WOW! My jaw dropped and my eyes teared up. Divine appointmet...I think so! He is right there...in all we do, in all we say and in all we think. There is no such thing as coincidence...although many will say that's what it is. I believe that God meets us...we just have to slow down and let Him.

This entry may not qualify as a Friday Favorite...but to me it was...it was the highlight of my day...and God is my favorite...and time with Him is too.

Love,

FRIDAY FAVORITES

I am reading a book by Kyle Richards right now and one of the chapters is about beauty and she talks about a lot of her tips and tricks. She also had a section that listed her favorites...So I thought it would be fun for "Friday Favorites" to do the same...Exact same questions...but my answers instead of hers...although several of ours are similar!

Must Have on Products(Favorites):
Eye Shadow: Laura Mercier Rose Gold (In the tube) and Sephora Brand Shadows

Mascara: L'Oreal Voluminous Original (have used this since highschool)

EyeLiner: L'Oreal Liquid Liner and Revlon Black eyeliner-colorstay (self sharpening)

Eye Make Up Remover: I actually don't use any..(bad) but When I cant get it off I just use lotion and a kleenex and it wipes right off!

Concealer: Maybelline Cover Stick in Yellow (my cousins got me hooked on this stuff! and they said they've tried the expensive stuff..and this is still their fav)

Tinted Sunblock: I don't use any becasue my foundation has it in it

Foundation: Depends. If it is just an errand day or work day...I do my loose face powder by Coty Airspun and touch up with my Merle Norman Compact. If it is a dress-up day..then I use Revlon Colorstay Oil Free foundation and then I set with Coty Airspun powder and then use my Merle Norman cmpact to even out (sounds like a lot..but I don't cake it on) It's the perfect blend for me!

Blush: I love my Nars Blush (I wont say the names of my favorite two because it will make me blush...but you know what they are..ha!), I also Love "The Balm" and Dandelion by Benefit

Lip Gloss: Merle Norman and Dior are my fav's

Lip Balm: Rose Bud Salve and EOS

Face Wash: I rotate my face wash..sometimes I use Oil of Olay Daily Facials and their Cream Cleanser, other days I use Erno Laszlo's Sea Mud Soap. And on occasion I use my Dove bar soap!

Skin Care: I use Oil of Olay Cream and Lotion. I also Use Erno Laszlo PhylitolCream. I have a few gels and eye creams from Mary Kay that I throw inthe mix from time to time. When I'm just at home and not planning to go anywhere...I will use Vitamin E Caplets...I look like a Seal!

Toothpaste: Optic White by Colgate (guilty Pleasure is "Go Smile Luxury Toothpaste"-found at Sephora)

Lotion: Jergens Ultra Healing Lotion

Signature Scent: Miss Dior Cherie and Viktor and Rolf Flowerbomb

Sunless Tanner: Jergens Express Glow and L'Oreal Sublime Bronze (Tan Towels are nice too...and I've been wanting to try Fake Bake) I have not stepped foot in a tanningbed since my Wedding and it had been a year before that. I'm over them...andtry to avoid them at all costs now!

Wifey Wednesday

I have been looking for new recipes...and mainly those that taste good the next day as left overs! Since we have gotten married...I tend to cook most night...and usually don't make things that keep as leftovers. I've realized though that I need a balance. It is too hard to work full time and come home and cook a full blown meal each night! I LOVE LOVE LOVE to cook...so this is hard for me...but I've begun to realize that if I want to have time to spend with Logan and time to workout and do the day to day things...then something's gotta give! I am now trying to choose recipes that will keep well and be good the next day! If I can make two things a week and revamp them with veggies or salad ...then that will work for us during the weeknights. Then on the weekends or one night a week I can cook somehting a little more gourmet and time consuming (which I don't mind...It's theraeutic!) Maybe one day I will be able to dedicate more time to meals and cook the way I'd love to cook 3-4 nights a week! Here are two recipes I made this week and we really liked them both!

Crockpot Chicken Cordon Bleu (coutesy of Pintrest)
4 Chicken Breast (boneless and skinless) cut in half
1 can of 98% fat free Crem of Chicken Soup
1 cup of milk
1 pkg. of Herb Stuffing Mix
4 TBSP of butter
8 slices of Ham (I bought sliced ham from the Deli)
8 Slices of Swiss Cheese

Mix soup and milk together in bowl. Pour half of that mixture in bottom of crock pot. Place Chickn Breast halves in crockpot. Lay a alice of ham over each half and try to wrap or tuck in. Tehn do the same with the swiss cheese. Pour remaining soup mixture over tops. pour stuffing mix over top and pour melted butter over stuffing. Cook on High for 3 hours or on low for 5-6 hours. I mad green beans the first night we ate it and salad the second night! I actually liked it better the 2nd day!

Potato Soup
Potatos (5-6)
Chicken Bouillon Cubes (5)
Celery (2 stalks)
Onion (med)
2 cans corn
1 1/4 cup milk
3 TBSP flour
1/2 pkg of Velveeta
1/2 can green chilies (small can)
Shrimp chopped OR Ham Chopped (I used shrimp this time)

I filled my pot about half way with water and added bouillon and potatos (Peeled and cubed), onion diced adn celery chopped. I boiled for awhile...and then once cooked through..I added milk that I had shaken with flour. I then added little pieces of velveeta and corn (drained) and brought to boil...then simmered. Once everything melted I added shirimp and green chilies. I added salt and pepper and onion powder to taste. I only added the green chilies because I think it needed a little punch with the shrimp...I had them and though..well I will try it! This was really good..I served with French Baguette with olive oil and organic roasted garlic! WE will eat this again tonight with some cheese toast or something...I bet it will taste even better the 2nd day! Next time I may make it with ham instead of shrimp....we were jsut needing a seafood fix this week!

BETTER LATE THAN NEVER

I know I'm weeks behind, but I really wanted to document my birthday week! It was my first birthday to be married...and I'm a big fan of firsts! Part of the reason I have not posted is because we tend to draw out birthday's these days...and I had not celebrated with my family yet...so I wanted to wait until I had been able to celebrate with them as well!

My birthday week was unique this year. Miss Holly (who has been apart of our family since I was born) passed away after a long and very brave battle with cancer. Her funeral was in Little Rock on my birthday....so I had notified work that I would not be in that day. The Sunday prior to my birthday, I woke up very sick...(the whole ears, nose and throat stuff) that make you feel aweful! I powered through and went to work Monday. My precious friend, Mary, picked me up and took me to a birthday lunch! We had planned on going to Nibbles (which is a fun lunchy kind of place....they have the best shrimp bisque ever)...and silly me ..I forgot that they were closed on Mondays. So we high-tailed it to another favorite..."McAlisters". McAlisters makes me think of my mom. When there was still a location in west Little Rock...we ate there a lot when we were out and about. When she was working out at the school and I was job hunting ...I would bring her an iced tea from there almost everyday! Anyways....so we had a great lunch...and Mary even brought a mini cake from Rick's and gave me the most adorable picture frame from Riffraff (another one of my fav's!) So blessed to have such a loving and giving friend.

I left very early for Little Rock Tuesady morning, because the funeral was at 10:00. Logan was so sweet and woke up singing to me and then surprised me with some beautiful flowers (bells of Ireland and Sunflowers ...in a beautiful mixture). I decided last minute to bring Bentley along for the trip...and I was leaving early enough that I would have time to drop him off at my mom's before the funeral! So I got to spend the majority of my day in the car wiht my little puppy bear!I was honored to be at Miss Holly's funeral and celebrate her life. She was a beautiful person and touched so many lives! I also got to see my family (immediate and extended, which is always good to catch up and important to be there for each other.) After the funeral, my parents and I went to pick my brother up from school and we went and ate at "Big Orange", in the Promenade. I love Big Orange...great burgers, amazing salads and shakes! I had to leave shortly after to get back to NWA...but it was the best to be able to spend part of my birthday with my family!

When I got home, I was EXHAUSTED from the drive and from being so sick. I felt horrible. Logan and I had reservations at Mermaids....(one of my all time favorites) but I was too sick to go...plus I could not taste my food very well! (so that seemed pointless.)I crashed on the couch and he immediatly jumped to plan B. He went to "Grubs" and picked up Spinach dip and my favorite salad! We rented a movie and I openned my presents! He was so thoughtful and made me feel like the most special girl in the world! Logan gave me pillows for our couch (they are really pretty...cream and gold with a neat damask print...with peacocks and swirls LOVE!) I had gone crazy over them one day...and he must have gone back to get them! ; ) he also gave me this really warm jacket/pull over. (Logan loves to buy jackets and pull overs (it's sorta a joke at our house) When he comes home from a store...I'm always like so what jacket did you buy???...and I am always warm becasue he is so thoughful!) He also bought me Kyle Richards new book called "Life is Not a Reality Show." I really like the Real Housewives of Beverly Hills (total trashy show I know...but again...entertaining to no end)...and I put a bug in his ear that I've been wanting to read her book! YAY! I received numerous cards from friends and family...all adorable...I think it was the year for cute cards! My Aunt Jan also sent me a very thoughtful gift (Chocolate Candle...which I have been on a wild goose chase for since my Sharffenburger one burned out )...and it smells A.M.A.Z.I.N.G! My mom and dad sent the most beautiful gourmet chocolate covered strawberries...we ate them right up!

I was super sick the next day..and had to call in to work....I slept all the live long day! Went to work on Thursday and the girls I work with knew I had had a rough week and surprised me with sweet cards and decorated my desk in all pink!(there was also a cake from Sam's..OMGOSH!!!) I wasn't expecting that at all...and when I saw my cute b-day decor I broke down crying. Very sweet and thoughtful! I ended up coming home at noon...still so so sick! BOOOO!
Friday was so much better....and my inlaws took us out for a double birthday to celebrate mine and Logan's mom's b-day (we are a day apart). We went to Bordino's and did out gift exchage, had creme Brulee and Cake and more cake at home....It was rediculous the amount of cake and chocolate that had consumed that week! UNREAL!

As if we haven't had enough celebrating..my family as usual sealed the deal! My parents are pro's in the b-day department...and have always gone out of their way to make my brother and I have Super Special days!
They took me to one of my favorite restaurants in Little Rock, "Brave New"...Walleye was on the menu, so we were all happy campers. My mom made chocolate eclair pie....and it was the best! They gave me the most beautiful french pillows that I'd been eyeing! They look gorgeous in our house! My sweet brother gave me a kitchen knoife sharpener and a very nice skillet set...(it was much needed!)

I honestly had a very unexpected birthday, but it was so fabulous...everyone pulled together and made me feel so loved anc special....I was overwhelmed by everyone's thoughfulness! I am beyond blessed and my heart is filled with the love I have for all the special people in my life! Thank you all for making 26 so Fabulous! Here's to another year..with those I love!


super long post...but I want to look back and read it all one day! (more for me than anyone else)

Our Love Story

I stole this off someone else's blog..and thought it was kind of fun to answer these questions!

1.How long have you and your significant other been together?It was 6 years this past December

2.How did you meet? {What's your "love" story?}Logan and I were fixed up on a blind date…and when he called to ask me out on a date…I had just gotten home for Thanksgiving break and I wasn’t in town to go out with him. He said, that wasn’t a problem and he’d really like to take me out when I got back to Fayetteville. He then called me every day that week and we would talk for hours. It was really a blessing to get to know him over the phone, and by the time I did finally see him face to face I gave him a big hug because I felt like we’d already met! That same week his grandfather had tragically and unexpectedly passed away, so they were right in the middle of visitation and funeral and lots of family being in town, but Logan came and met me anyways and helped me unload my car and carried all my clothes into my dorm (which really was a good “get to know you” moment, because I pack a lot of clothes. He had to know what he was getting himself into from the day we met! He took me to lunch and then took me back to his house and showed me his parents land and all of their horses. It was just so natural, me and him. He didn’t try to be anything he wasn’t…he was very real with me and very genuine. I was the smitten kitten; literally couldn’t put one foot in front of the other…and was just crazy about him. I was really guarded though and tried not to fall to hard too early…but about a month in…I had already decided that I loved him and that he was going to be my husband. We have been together ever since….we did break up for one weekend….and of course we have had our ups and downs….but he has had my heart from the beginning and always will!

3.If married, how long have you been married? If not, is this the guy you hope to marry? We were married August 6, 2011 ( 7 months)

4.If you are married, where did you get married at? Big or small wedding
We got married in Mountainburg, Arkansas. Logan’s family owns hundreds of acres there and they have a beautiful 2nd home with a huge wrap around porch. Logan proposed there and it is exactly where I knew we should be married. We had a very small wedding (tiny)….Shocking to many who know me…..but I can honestly say it was perfect, very intimate and I will never forget it!

5.Do you have any nick-names that you call one another? Logan is not a big nickname user…He calls me Haleigh Millwee a lot (like it’s my first name)…even after we were married he still calls me by my maiden name…he said Haleigh Millwee is who I was when he fell in love with me and to him I will always be that girl ..He also Loves Haleigh Geels! He is not a big pet name user! I, on the other hand am the opposite (to an extreme) Just like my mom, every other word is honey, baby, darling…etc.You often hear me say to Logan: Angel, Baby doll, darling, Sugar, Baby Love…I don’t say it is any weird, corny voice either…Those names just form into my sentence like it’s supposed to be there….very natural part of my daily verbiage
When Logan and I first met, I always called him Sparky..and that’s how I have him listed in my phone

6.Name 3 things you love most about your honey.
He is so giving, trustworthy and funny. No one can make me laugh like Logan!

7.Tell us how he proposed?
Logan took me up to Mountainburg for New Years Eve (we were meeting his family there…only they were running very late…on purpose) While we were waiting for them….He said, “Let’s go drive around in the Bad Boy Buggy and spot light deer. For those of you who don’t know what a Bad Boy Buggy is….It is basically a Camouflage Golf Cart that can climb trees. And for those of you who don’t know Logan…Spot lighting deer late at night is one of his favorite things to do. I SUSPECTED NOTHING AT ALL because this was such the norm. We were driving around in the field and we saw a ton of deer that night. And then out of the blue he said, “Hey what’s on that tree?” Then he shined his big spot light over to a tree that had a sign on it that said “WILL”. My first thought (that I did not say out loud)…was…”Why is someone’s name on that tree?”Then he shined the spotlight to the next tree and it said “You. And then I knew….the next two tree’s said “Marry” “Me”. He then got out and came around to my side and got down on one knee while he was pulling a box out of his jacket pocket with the most gorgeous ring in it. I honestly don’t even remember what he said….I was so surprised. I know he said I love you with all my heart and I know he said I want to spend my life with you and I know he said Will you Marry me Haleigh Millwee….but whatever else he said…I’ll never know! I know I will never forget the feeling When we got back up to the house…He took me in the sitting room off to the side and when he opened the door it was filled with rose petals and sparkling grape juice(I’m allergic to wine) , chocolate covered strawberries, roses and petit fours! It was amazing. I cried at that moment…because he had made me feel so incredibly loved and special! Happiest Day of My life besides my Wedding Day!

8.Is he a flowers and teddy bear kind of guy for v-day, or strawberries, champagne, and rose petals?Logan is a mix of both…although he has never given me a stuffed animal (except a few on my wall that he likes to shoot and then stuff ; )
He has always given me flowers for special occasions and sometimes just because. He is so incredibly giving and goes above and beyond for special occasions. He usually picks out my favorite candy and usually buys me something for the house or shoes or clothes (even for Valentine’s). Logan is also really good about taking me to eat at romantic places….and he makes the sweetest cards…and every once in awhile…he does something so incredibly romantic that it makes my whole year!

9.Are you a sunset dinner on the beach kind of girl, or pop a movie in and relax on the couch? I’m both! Just depends on the day! I absolutely love to be home and cuddle up and watch a movie and order take out….but then there’s a side of me that loves to get dressed up and go to amazing restaurants or plan a fun dinner out!

10.Tell us one thing you'd like to do with your significant other one day. If you could do anything? Go anywhere?I would love to go to New York with Logan…I think it would be so fun! I would also like to go to Alaska with him and plan a trip for fishing and staying in some beautiful Lodge (he would love that!) I could list a bunch of other places too though!

11.Tell us what you plan on doing on this Valentine's Day.We gave each other gifts last night (because I am not a morning person) and We are going to dinner at Mermaids tonight

12.Are you asking for anything this Valentine's day?Logan bought me a beautiful table for my guest bathroom that I’ve been wanting and got me the warmest jacket ( I love it!) Oh and Flowers and Chocolate. Honestly…What else could I ask for!



13. Give us one piece of advice of keeping a relationship strong and full of love.Striving to keep the Lord the center of your relationship (is first and foremost), COMMUNICATION, and Choosing your battles! Oh I guess that was three pieces of advice….but honestly that is what works for us. We both know that without God, we are nothing…Our love for each other should be a mirror image of His love for us! Without Communication…Well, you might as well throw in the towel right there ...ha! Logan and I don’t hold things in…we are both very honest and we call it like we see it. We aren’t afraid to call each other out on our B.S. and it works really well for us. We also take time to communicate our concerns, what we need and how we feel. It helps you grow and know what you can do to meet that need! Choosing battles…because sometimes it’s just better to let it go! (but that’s for the little things)

14. Show us a picture of what love means to you.
See the picture at the top of this post!

There is also a Picture...but it doesn't exist on any camera and is not in any frame...but it is filed in my memory for the rest of my life.
Right after I was attacked (a year and a half ago) I was taken to the ER...and I was laying in the bed, Doctors and nurses were coming in and out. My mom was in the room with me..My Dad and brother were out in the waiting room with multiple family and friends. Logan was driving from Fayetteville to get to Little Rock as fast as he could....and when he got there, My dad brought him back and I just remember looking up and seeing his face...and I will never forget the way he looked at me...like I was the most beautiful person in the world. That look of love on his face is forever filed away in my mind....I will never ever forget it!

FRIDAY FAVORITE

My Friday Favorite this week is hands down my husband Logan. I have been very sick this week (b-day week) and he as well as many others really made it special for me!
But the real reason is that I haven't lifted a finger this week, all the laundry dishes, clean up, trash, meals....he has done! IT is such a breath of fresh air when you feel so sick to have someone just take over and kick it in high gear! He always helps around the house (we make a great team) but this week was Team Logan..and I appreciate it so much.

I fall in love with him more and more each day. Yesterday I made an aweful mistake (well actaully it was a mistake I made a year ago...and just realized it yesterday.) I t was a rather $$$$ expensive mistake to say the least....and when I told him about it...He just smiled and said don't worry about it...I'll take care of it. My reply was, but it's not fair to you, that you have to suffer for my mistake...I just feel so bad. And again he smiled and me, kissed me and said...don't worry, Accidents happen and we can't so anything about it now...I don't want you to worry anymore about it...it was an honest mistake! He really made me feel better....and once again he steps in and just takes care of me! I'm so blessed by you Logan...thank you for being so loving and selfless....I am the Luckiest girl in the world! (although I know luck had nothing to do with it! :)

WIFEY WEDNESDAY

On Sunday afternoon, as I started to put away the groceries for the week, I had gone down to our refrigerator in the garage to put away some of the extra items that take up too much space in the kitchen fridge and decided I should clean out the deep freeze. Well, to my lovely surprise my hubby already did it! Now our nicely cleaned deep freeze is filled with deer!!! So that has had my little wheels turning on what to do with all of this deer meat...

The problem is I really only like the tenderloins and the backstraps. I'm not the biggest fan of the ground deer meat (and we have a lot of that!)

So I'm on the hunt for good deer recipes!

Please share your favorite....I could use some inspiration!

For now I'll share my 2 favorites:

CHICKEN FRIED DEER:
cut up the thawed deer meat into about 2 inch pieces
Tenderize either the backstrap or the tenderloin
Dip in egg and milk
Roll in Louisiana Fish Fry (sounds wierd but trust me it's good)
and then deep fry (I prefer to do this outside on the patio...because I dont like the smell in the house!)

GRILLED DEER:
Cut up into 2 inch peices
Tenderize the tenderoin or steaks
Lay deer meat on a plate and sprinkle generously both sides with light brown sugar.Press brown sugar into the meat(this helps teh blood come out and helps teh meat lose teh gamey taste) then sprinkle with Cavendars (the sweet and salty taste really good together.
Grill!!

This is so so good!

As you can see my recipes are only for tenderloin....I have none for ground deer meat! I know you can make deer chili and deer taco's and deer lazagna (however, I have yet to try any that I like) HELP ME...Share your recipes....because I have enough ground deer meat to feed all of you!

WIFEY WEDNESDAY

There has been a lot going on lately ...leaving not much time for blogging!
No new recipes to really share!
Logan and I have been eating very healthy for the past week...so my recipes aren't the most exciting. However Our favorite healthy meal these days is:
Mussels
Ahi Tuna
Fresh Veggies

There is a very yummy sauce that goes with the mussels...but most of the time when I make it...we just eat them straight up..no sauce (sauce is for special occasions :)

The Ahi Tuna (WAY DIFFERENT THAN CANNED TUNA...WHICH I HAVE TO PLUG MY NOSE AND HOLD MY BREATH EVERYTIME LOGAN WANTS TO EAT IT) is very good! We just season it with Ferneau Seasoning and a little Mrs. Dash and saute in about 1-2 Tbsp. of olive oil! You can cook through or leave it a little pink in the middle! I like it both ways!

For Veggies we have been eating a lot of salad, sliced avocado and also roasted carrots, zuccinni, and broccoli topped with a little salt and parmesean.

Very simple...but very healthy and yummy!
Not the most exciting post.....but it's pretty much what I have fixed latley (other than the Taco Soup I made the other night). New recipe that I wont be sharing...It was AWEFUL! HORRIBLE....like so bad that after 3 bites I pulled out the cheerios and milk! My sweet husband ate two helpings. I assured him.."you don't have to do that, I know it's bad"...and he smiled and said "I like it." I still think he was being nice...because I hated every single bite of it! I have 2 other taco soup recipes that are fabulous....and I will share them sometime...but this one is going in the trash!