okay say what you want but "pregnancy brain" 100% EXISTS! Unbelievable things I have done lately have made me question my sanity. Leaving my phone at my mother in laws house, then after Jake so graciously drove to get it, I forgot it at home the next day. oye. Jake's love must be pretty great for him to keep up with me...and my things.
BTW I'm getting huge and it's only just begun. Totally worth it though! :) I've started feeling Roo but Jake can't just quite yet. Hopefully within the next few weeks he will be able to. It's like a little fish swimming around in your guts. Amazing.
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
Thursday, October 14, 2010
Thank you
Jake...I love you. We say it 800 times a day. We do not get off the phone without saying it. Even when we are fighting. We somehow manage to grunt out an "i love you". But do I tell you how much I appreciate you? How you are my angel? How you are my absolute best friend? Well I do and you are. Life with you isn't perfect...nowhere near but anything and everything we go through is worth it. I couldn't and wouldn't want to do anything in life without you. Do you know how much you touch other peoples lives? Well you do. Every person you come in contact with, you leave a permanent mark on thier lives in such a short time. It doesn't take much...one glance at your gorgeous smile...a hint of your contagious laugh...the slightest touch of your loving and careful hands. Know this. Know how you touch and impact lives. How is it I got so lucky to have you all to myself? How is it that I am blessed enough to be carrying your child? To be able to create the best parts of you and me into one single miracle? You are simply the most affectionate, caring, and passionate man I've ever know. Truly an inspiration especially to me...your wife. This is just a thank you for being you and making me who I am.
I love you
not only for what you are
but for what I am when I'm with you
I love you
not only for what you have made of yourself
but for what you are making of me
I love you
for passing over all my faults and weak traits
that you can't help but see
I love you
for finding my inner workings and drawing out my beauty
that no one else looked quite hard enough to find
I love you
not only for what you are
but for what I am when I'm with you
I love you
not only for what you have made of yourself
but for what you are making of me
I love you
for passing over all my faults and weak traits
that you can't help but see
I love you
for finding my inner workings and drawing out my beauty
that no one else looked quite hard enough to find
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Home Sweet Home
WE ARE OFFICIAL HOMEOWNERS! :) A couple of weeks ago, Jake and I signed the contract on our first home together! We basically went through hell trying to find a house...between losing houses to contracts or just plain being too picky...we finally found THE perfect home for the PERFECT price. Everything works out exactly how it's supposed to and I could not believe that more. It's the perfect location for both of us with just the right amount of space. It's three bedroom with a playroom/flex room in between the spare bedrooms. It even has a study! Upgraded features like granite, kitchen cabinets, lighting, carpet, covered patio, and sprinkler system. We got a great deal because they included ALL the appliances (even front load w/d), wood blinds throughout the house, and all the closing costs! We saved for having to pay about $12K in closing costs and down payment but because they are paying for most of that, we are saving so much money! We are using some of that money to put in wood floors in the living room and paint the entire house. WE close October 25th and will hoepfully move in that following weekend! :) Cannot wait to be out of this apartment to tell you the truth...it's driving me nuts! I need some space for my stuff! Maybe I just have too much stuff?!?!?! :) Pictures of the house are on facebook...check them out!
The Manchaca's plus one :)
The Manchaca's plus one :)
Flying HM Ranch
God is doing amazing things in Jake's life right now. Obviously with me and the baby :) not to brag or anything but also in terms of some things he has ALWAYS wanted to do. His job is going great but he's got some other things he's been working really hard on the past couple of months. Ryan, my sisters boyfriend, and him have been writing a business contract to start a land and cattle ranch out in Winters, Texas. They have found potential investors which will get things up and running. He is passionate about EVERY SINGLE thing he does but this is his dream and I love watching God unfold it in front of our eyes. Everything just seems to fall into place at the perfect time :) I will keep ya'll updated in this matter...just pray for his guidance and wisdom as he takes this huge risk for our family and to see his dream come true.
Update on Roo
Roo is doing great! I have a wimpy attempt at a baby bump...but it is there! As of tomorrow (the day I've been waiting for for the past 10 weeks is FINALLY upon us) I will begin my second trimester which hopefully *fingers crossed* means that the nausea and headaches will subside. This is the trimester where you apparently feel the best you have ever felt in your life and you get to actually enjoy being pregnant. Not that I haven't enjoyed it because HELLO I have a little miracle...the best part of Jake and I...growing in me as we speak...BUT I could've gone without the nausea. That was definately the worst part. With all of that said, it is without a doubt totally worth every visit to the toilet! God has blesses us with this beautiful little creature that we get more anxious as days go by about meeting! We have our next appointment next week and then the appointment after that, we will hopefully find out the sex of the baby :) I'M DYING TO KNOW! Even though not knowing hasn't really stopped me from buying things (duh...have you met me?!) but it would make it a whole lot easier. Obviously I don't care one way or the other what it is and neither is Jake; we just want Roo to be healthy. At the last appointment, we got to hear the little heartbeat. SOOOO PERFECT! After hearing that, you can't exactly help but LOVE life. HOW AMAZING IS GOD?!?! So tomorrow, Roo will graduate from the size of a peach to the size of a lemon. Kicking and moving which is really what makes mommy queasy. Roo can also hear now so we are starting to be careful about what we say. Jake talks to him/her every night and every morning...adorable. BIGGEST downside?!?!...I can no longer sleep on my tummy. Sad day. Jake went and got me the mommy pillow which is like a contoured body pillow for pregnant women to sleep comfortably on their side and even a little on thier stomach. It takes the pressure off the stomach. IT'S AMAZING...AND it's zebra print! :) just a small plus. Jake has been absolutely wonderful. I recently started experiencing back pains and he gets up in the middle of the night if I'm hurting and gives me a back rub...cleans the apartment when I'm just too exhausted to. I'm pretty lucky :) We think we've finally settled on names but we aren't revealing those just yet. Roo says hi and he/she can't wait to meet everyone!
Momma M & Baby Roo
Momma M & Baby Roo
Apologies
Man how crazy lhas life been?! Between our jobs, the baby, adjusting to married life (which isn't really any different...just better :)), and of course just everyday life things, I have found it really hard to blog and keep up. But I promise that will start changing because things seem to be slowing down just enough. By no means am I complaining because God has blessed us with several incredible things these past couple of months that I wouldn't have it any other way. It will come in several posts so prepare yourselves :)
Monday, August 16, 2010
Dr. Appointment
Everything went great at our doctors appointment. First thing they did was do an ultrasound. I thought they were going to do it vaginally because I am still only 7 weeks but they ended up doing it over my belly with the gel which took me by surprise. Not that I'm complaining or anything but I was totally prepared for the more invasive procedure. She pushed around on my belly and showed me the size of the uterus which is about the size of a grapefruit right now and then my bladder. She then showed me my yolk sac which is what is responsible for releasing all those hormones that cause the breast tenderness and nausea...not to mention the oh-so-famous pregnancy mood swings. Which haven't been so bad...although Jake might have a different side of the story. :) FINALLY she got to the placenta where the baby was. It was soo tiny but you could definately see the heartbeat. It was amazing! We couldn't hear it but could definately see it. Jake couldn't stop squeezing my hand! It was adorable! Roo is currently measuring right at 7 weeks and 3 days and the due date the doctor gave me was March 31st! That was the best part of the whole appointment. Afterwards, we did a consultation for family history as well as the not so fun exam. And of course the whole pee in a cup and bloodwork business which apparently will be happening every time I have an appointment. Our next appointment is September 9th when I'm 11 weeks...which means I will be one week from the end of my first trimester! YAY! NO MORE NAUSEA! :) Although she did give me some miracle drugs that don't hurt the baby that help with the nausea. So far so good! I have a long list of things I will not eat. I added wings to them last night. :( It was a sad day! Another reason why it was a sad day...at the beginning of the day my clothes fits perfect...by the end, it gets a little snug and uncomfortable. They say its normal and eventually they won't even button in the morning which apparently will be the next couple of weeks because I'm smaller in size so I will most likely show quicker. Which I'm okay with simply because right now I just feel like I look fat, not pregnant! Belly band here I come! :)
Here is the first picture of our sweet baby!
Monday, August 9, 2010
Guessing Game
What to eat and what not to eat...THAT is the question. It's an absolutely complete guessing game as to what is going to make me sick and what Roo is actually going to like. Apparently he's a little picky like his mommy! :) So far, PB&J, tomato basil soup, shrimp, and garlic bread makes me sick...barftastic. Roo LOVES fruit...which I'm not gonna complain about but I cannot eat fruit every meal. I need a little variety here! If I'm making something I haven't eaten while I was pregnant yet I'm not really sure if it's gonna make me sick either until I gag as it enters my mouth (shrimp) or until about an hour after I eat when I get sick to my stomach. I'm at 6 weeks and 3 days right now and my stomach is already getting harder and a tiny little pouch is sticking out. Our first appointment is this Thursday and I cannot wait to get our first picture of Roo! :) VERY exciting time for us! We ask for prayers that everything goes and looks well at the appointment. Also, we are still looking at houses with one particular one we absolutely love...we are just "patiently" waiting for our pre-approval paperwork to be finished so we can finally make an offer. Praying for the Lord's guidance and light as we make this very large and expensive decision for our growing little family! We will keep you updated.
Prayer Request: Shannon, Jake's cousin, is having some health issues and will get more information from her doctor this week as to where to proceed from here. Also, Jake and I's friend, Amy Reed, her father is going through chemotherapy for stage 4 liver cancer...please pray for the Lord's light and healing hands as they face this difficult time.
Ashley & Roo Manchaca
Prayer Request: Shannon, Jake's cousin, is having some health issues and will get more information from her doctor this week as to where to proceed from here. Also, Jake and I's friend, Amy Reed, her father is going through chemotherapy for stage 4 liver cancer...please pray for the Lord's light and healing hands as they face this difficult time.
Ashley & Roo Manchaca
One Year
Monday, August 2, 2010
ah sweet relief
Found some relief to my nausea...a combination of a hot bath and those stupid bracelets I never thought would ever work. Who would've thought?!?!
Summer is over
So we officially started volleyball today...blah. The summer was extremely too short. I really would've liked to spend a little more time at home. We are honestly still trying to catch up from EVERYTHING that happened in the past two months :) ALL blesses things! God is good ALWAYS. Well back to volleyball. We have some extremely talented girls coming up and I am really excited to work with them. They seem like a really fun group of girls which could pose a problem for me. See...my biggest issue is when the girls are fun and outgoing it's really hard for me to be the authortative figure I should be. But I learned from last year that I can't slack in that department. So bring on the running! :) MWUAHAHAHAHAHA!
Jake and I are continuing to look for a house...we have a couple of really good leads but I'm not giving details until we put an offer on a house :)
We have decided on calling the baby "Roo" for now until we decide if it's going to be a boy or a girl. We are just really tired of calling it...well "it"! Taken from Winnie the Pooh and if you still don't understand it, please ask someone who had a real childhood surrounded by the Hundred Acre Woods. :)
The pregnancy is going great so far. I am definately beginning to feel the rage of hormones. I easily get upset...and I'm talking about the stupidest commercials I will be bawling. Or I will randomly gag from a smell that has been rejected by my nose. Oh and that lovely thing called "morning" sickness?!?! Morning sickness MY ASS! I feel great in the morning besides the normal exhaustion but come 4:00 in the afternoon...I'm toast! Everything is nauseating. It's fabulous! :) It should be hitting me any minute now as we speak. yay.
Blessings,
Momma to be :)
Jake and I are continuing to look for a house...we have a couple of really good leads but I'm not giving details until we put an offer on a house :)
We have decided on calling the baby "Roo" for now until we decide if it's going to be a boy or a girl. We are just really tired of calling it...well "it"! Taken from Winnie the Pooh and if you still don't understand it, please ask someone who had a real childhood surrounded by the Hundred Acre Woods. :)
The pregnancy is going great so far. I am definately beginning to feel the rage of hormones. I easily get upset...and I'm talking about the stupidest commercials I will be bawling. Or I will randomly gag from a smell that has been rejected by my nose. Oh and that lovely thing called "morning" sickness?!?! Morning sickness MY ASS! I feel great in the morning besides the normal exhaustion but come 4:00 in the afternoon...I'm toast! Everything is nauseating. It's fabulous! :) It should be hitting me any minute now as we speak. yay.
Blessings,
Momma to be :)
Thursday, July 29, 2010
Miracles Happen
Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the
heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.
James 1:17
Since we have informed all of our family memebers and closest friends, it is now time to go public with the news we have had a very hard time keeping to ourselves. Jake and I are expecting a beautiful miracle in late March/early April! Although it's a little sooner than expected, we could not be more ecstatic! This is all a part of God's plan for us. We feel as though He knows our relationship is strong enough for a child and that we are prepared for this. My first appointment is August 12th so I will know more details then. I'm honestly interested to know how far along I am when she measures me because sometimes I feel like I am further along than we think. I cannot tell if I'm bloating or if I am really already starting to show. Holy moly! This blog will probably turn into the wonders and tribulations of pregnancy :) So far, it hasn't been so bad but then again I'm only about 5 weeks along. According to all the books, all the dreaded things don't hit until 6 or 7 weeks but I'm definately ready for the ride! Who knew such a tiny little thing could make you SSOOOO tired?!?! I am exhausted from going up and down the stairs or doing a load of laundry. Apparently, in early pregnancy, your body does more work sitting down doing nothing than a person that just ran a marathon....HOLY EXHAUSTION! It's nuts! I've also been cramping which I freaked out a little about at first because I started to think something was wrong but the books say it's completely normal. It's simply your insides moving around and preparing to make room for baby. The placenta is growing and thickening as well as the uterus which causes the cramps. It's funny how instinctual you become automatically. I don't like Tini standing on my tummy...even though I know the baby is already well cushioned I just freak out a little. I hope I don't become an over-obsessive mom....I'm pretty sure Jake won't let me! :) Speaking of Jake, he is CRAZY excited! He gets more excited every day and I love it. He will just come sit by me and rub my belly...adorable right?! He's already talking about wanting a boy but he doesn't wanna get too excited about a boy for obvious reasons. Either way, I know he is going to make an amazing daddy :) Our kid will be one of those kids with a pony and everything else they've ever wanted! And I never feel alone. It's really weird but it's like I have a best friend with me all the time! My life is so amazingly blessed...I almost feel like I don't deserve it. Well I will definately be keeping everyone updated on how things are going! Sending blessings your way.
Ashley & Baby Manchaca :)
heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.
James 1:17
Since we have informed all of our family memebers and closest friends, it is now time to go public with the news we have had a very hard time keeping to ourselves. Jake and I are expecting a beautiful miracle in late March/early April! Although it's a little sooner than expected, we could not be more ecstatic! This is all a part of God's plan for us. We feel as though He knows our relationship is strong enough for a child and that we are prepared for this. My first appointment is August 12th so I will know more details then. I'm honestly interested to know how far along I am when she measures me because sometimes I feel like I am further along than we think. I cannot tell if I'm bloating or if I am really already starting to show. Holy moly! This blog will probably turn into the wonders and tribulations of pregnancy :) So far, it hasn't been so bad but then again I'm only about 5 weeks along. According to all the books, all the dreaded things don't hit until 6 or 7 weeks but I'm definately ready for the ride! Who knew such a tiny little thing could make you SSOOOO tired?!?! I am exhausted from going up and down the stairs or doing a load of laundry. Apparently, in early pregnancy, your body does more work sitting down doing nothing than a person that just ran a marathon....HOLY EXHAUSTION! It's nuts! I've also been cramping which I freaked out a little about at first because I started to think something was wrong but the books say it's completely normal. It's simply your insides moving around and preparing to make room for baby. The placenta is growing and thickening as well as the uterus which causes the cramps. It's funny how instinctual you become automatically. I don't like Tini standing on my tummy...even though I know the baby is already well cushioned I just freak out a little. I hope I don't become an over-obsessive mom....I'm pretty sure Jake won't let me! :) Speaking of Jake, he is CRAZY excited! He gets more excited every day and I love it. He will just come sit by me and rub my belly...adorable right?! He's already talking about wanting a boy but he doesn't wanna get too excited about a boy for obvious reasons. Either way, I know he is going to make an amazing daddy :) Our kid will be one of those kids with a pony and everything else they've ever wanted! And I never feel alone. It's really weird but it's like I have a best friend with me all the time! My life is so amazingly blessed...I almost feel like I don't deserve it. Well I will definately be keeping everyone updated on how things are going! Sending blessings your way.
Ashley & Baby Manchaca :)
Thursday, July 22, 2010
Best Day of our Lives 6.18.10
Well the rehearsal started off a little off-kilter because Jake's family got stuck at an accident so they were like 30 minutes late which made my stress level rise but once they got there it was perfect. Daddy revealed his amazing cross decorated with an "M" that he handmade. We ate at Swinging Door BBQ with our closest friends and family. Jake and I then split for the night. I spent the night with my girls in a hotel room and I really don't wanna know what Jake did! :)
To be quite honest, the whole day went without a glitch! Not one mentioning at least. My dress, the cakes, the food, the dancing, the pictures, the videos, the guests, EVERYTHING was just perfect and I could not have asked for it to have been any better.
The best part...
The whole day, it hadn't really kicked in that I was getting married in a few short hours UNTIL my hair and makeup were done and my veil was on. That was when the freaking out started...not the freaking out like "I don't know if I wanna do this" but a freaking out like "I can't believe I will be marrying my best friend in a few hours". It was a wonderful feeling. I then focused on having fun with my girls and then I was in the brides room alone with my sister while the girls where outside getting lined up and it finally all hit me...this is actually happening! :)AAAHHHHH! I was never nervous I just couldn't wait to see him at the alter. When those doors finally opened it was like...well unlike anything I could've imagined feeling. Everything after that went sooo fast! But when I look back on pictures I know that I will forever remember that feeling because it was so well captured. Definately a day I will never forget. Especially becoming Mrs. Jake Manchaca :)
Advice to upcoming brides: Enjoy EVERY moment because it comes and goes sooooo fast!
The newest Manchaca :)
To be quite honest, the whole day went without a glitch! Not one mentioning at least. My dress, the cakes, the food, the dancing, the pictures, the videos, the guests, EVERYTHING was just perfect and I could not have asked for it to have been any better.
The best part...
The whole day, it hadn't really kicked in that I was getting married in a few short hours UNTIL my hair and makeup were done and my veil was on. That was when the freaking out started...not the freaking out like "I don't know if I wanna do this" but a freaking out like "I can't believe I will be marrying my best friend in a few hours". It was a wonderful feeling. I then focused on having fun with my girls and then I was in the brides room alone with my sister while the girls where outside getting lined up and it finally all hit me...this is actually happening! :)AAAHHHHH! I was never nervous I just couldn't wait to see him at the alter. When those doors finally opened it was like...well unlike anything I could've imagined feeling. Everything after that went sooo fast! But when I look back on pictures I know that I will forever remember that feeling because it was so well captured. Definately a day I will never forget. Especially becoming Mrs. Jake Manchaca :)
Advice to upcoming brides: Enjoy EVERY moment because it comes and goes sooooo fast!
The newest Manchaca :)
WAY behind!
It has been well over a month since I have blogged and I'm sure you all understand. I did get married, go on my honeymoon, and get situated with Jake in our apartment. Life could not be more perfect right now. I am enjoying my summer off from work even though volleyball officially starts back next week with our freshman camp. I stay busy with shopping, movies, and cleaning or decorating the apartment...like I said it's a good life right now! :) Jake is still working for his brother while he continues to wait to hear back from the job he interviewed for before the wedding. He was called back for a second interview two weeks ago and we are waiting to hear their final decision. We've been praying about it and no matter what the outcome we know that God is ALWAYS good. We have also been looking at houses in the Cinco Ranch area which is in Katy. Our lease is up in November and we will want to be in a house at that point so we went ahead and started looking. We have fallen in love with two very different houses :) which is definately a good thing but we like different things about each house so it's hard! We are waiting to hear back about Jake's job before we make an offer or anything like that which luckily gives us a little time to pray and decide which house we feel is the best house to start our family in! :)
Now that you're a little caught up on our lives as of right now...onto the details of the wedding day! :)
Now that you're a little caught up on our lives as of right now...onto the details of the wedding day! :)
Sunday, June 13, 2010
5 days !!!!!!
OMG!!!! I cannot believe the wedding is 5 days away. I just thought planning a wedding was stressful but it's the week leading up to the wedding that is going to be really stressful...I can already tell! Definately exciting though! On top of all the wedding stuff going on this week I have a job interview on Tuesday.
The past few weeks have been pretty fast pase and fun with a lot of the wedding stuff going on. The videographer met with us last week and it was so much fun working with him and I can't wait to see the final video. Ummmm, so I'm not gunna lie I am pretty pumped about going to Hawaii a week from today. How crazy is it to be going on a huge vacation like this without parents of anyone else? Its going to be an amazing Honeymoon! We are going horse back riding, zip line riding through the forest, and snorkeling. We are also going to go see Pearl Harbor which was amazing the last time I went to Hawaii!!! I think we are also going up on a volcano and then to a Pineapple farm!!!! OMG I cant wait to spend 10 days in a beautiful place with my beautiful new wife!!!!
P.S.
Did I mention I am getting married in 5 days and will be able to finally call Ashley MY WIFE!!!!
Getting our marriage license last week was so cool. Things started to hit me how crazy fast everything is coming up now. Well, in five days we will get to see everyone at Briscoe ! I finally get to see Ashley's dress and get to wear my new gator boots at the wedding :) Love you guys and cant wait for the wedding!!!!!
The past few weeks have been pretty fast pase and fun with a lot of the wedding stuff going on. The videographer met with us last week and it was so much fun working with him and I can't wait to see the final video. Ummmm, so I'm not gunna lie I am pretty pumped about going to Hawaii a week from today. How crazy is it to be going on a huge vacation like this without parents of anyone else? Its going to be an amazing Honeymoon! We are going horse back riding, zip line riding through the forest, and snorkeling. We are also going to go see Pearl Harbor which was amazing the last time I went to Hawaii!!! I think we are also going up on a volcano and then to a Pineapple farm!!!! OMG I cant wait to spend 10 days in a beautiful place with my beautiful new wife!!!!
P.S.
Did I mention I am getting married in 5 days and will be able to finally call Ashley MY WIFE!!!!
Getting our marriage license last week was so cool. Things started to hit me how crazy fast everything is coming up now. Well, in five days we will get to see everyone at Briscoe ! I finally get to see Ashley's dress and get to wear my new gator boots at the wedding :) Love you guys and cant wait for the wedding!!!!!
Thursday, June 10, 2010
Proposal
This was the most incredible day of my life...that is until June 18th :) It could not have been more perfect. The videos are backwards so watch the last one first.
Monday, June 7, 2010
Summer is HERE!
Man am I super excited to be done with school! The last day with kids was Thursday and then we had to go in briefly on Friday to submit grades and check out for the year...and of course say bye to some of my favorite people...most of which I will see on June 18th anyways. Overall, my first year of teaching was way better than I expected. I completely fell in love with the staff (some of which are now some of my very best friends) and the kids were definately an experience. Of course there were some stinkers but for the most part, they were great. I wouldn't have made it through had I not coached. :) It is definately my favorite part of my job.
I ended in a bang. We finally got our TAKS scores back and not only did 10th grade ELA go up 1% but I had a very low failure rate. :) That's definately hard work paid off! Another thing I am particularly proud of is the intervention Megg and I conducted with specific students who did not pass TAKS because of their essay scores. Those of you not familiar with TAKS, if you do not get a 2 or higher on your essay, you automatically fail TAKS regardless of whether you got every multiple choice right or not. So we met with these students once a week for four weeks to go over in detail how to write a TAKS essay step by step. There were 55 students in our intervention. We got the results back the last week of school and out of all of those kids, 54 passed! 98% passed! WAHOOOOOO! :) if that doesn't make a teacher appreciate thier job then I don't know what does. I called Jake and he was so ecstatic for me! Talk about support. When great things happen, he is the first person I call and tell because if it's important to me, I know without a doubt that it is equally important to him. How lucky am I?! He made sure I knew he was proud of me without actually having to tell me :) LOVE HIM!
These next two months without school will definately be amazing but I think I will definately be ready for volleyball to start come the end of July. :) This time I will be Coach Manchaca! EEKKKK!
ALM :)
I ended in a bang. We finally got our TAKS scores back and not only did 10th grade ELA go up 1% but I had a very low failure rate. :) That's definately hard work paid off! Another thing I am particularly proud of is the intervention Megg and I conducted with specific students who did not pass TAKS because of their essay scores. Those of you not familiar with TAKS, if you do not get a 2 or higher on your essay, you automatically fail TAKS regardless of whether you got every multiple choice right or not. So we met with these students once a week for four weeks to go over in detail how to write a TAKS essay step by step. There were 55 students in our intervention. We got the results back the last week of school and out of all of those kids, 54 passed! 98% passed! WAHOOOOOO! :) if that doesn't make a teacher appreciate thier job then I don't know what does. I called Jake and he was so ecstatic for me! Talk about support. When great things happen, he is the first person I call and tell because if it's important to me, I know without a doubt that it is equally important to him. How lucky am I?! He made sure I knew he was proud of me without actually having to tell me :) LOVE HIM!
These next two months without school will definately be amazing but I think I will definately be ready for volleyball to start come the end of July. :) This time I will be Coach Manchaca! EEKKKK!
ALM :)
Guest Count
We finally got all the RSVP's so we could give the caterer a final headcount...final. geez I remember last March when we booked Briscoe and they were talking about when we would need to give them the final numbers and final plans and final this, final that....it all just seemed so far away. And now it's here and we could not be more anxious! :) So our count is at 196. Perfect. Our incredible friends and family that have watched our relationship grow into what it is today over the past 4 years will be there on our amazing day. I cannot imagine it being any other way.
We are down to the little details now. Printing and tying the programs, getting pictures to the videographer for the slideshow, finalize the music, put together all the bridesmaid gifts, printing and sending out the invitations for the rehearsal dinner and the bridal brunch.
10 days as of tomorrow :) then 12 days till we are in Hawaii for 10 days enjoying being a married couple!
Ashley
We are down to the little details now. Printing and tying the programs, getting pictures to the videographer for the slideshow, finalize the music, put together all the bridesmaid gifts, printing and sending out the invitations for the rehearsal dinner and the bridal brunch.
10 days as of tomorrow :) then 12 days till we are in Hawaii for 10 days enjoying being a married couple!
Ashley
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
CLC
Colt Carlton was born today!! And he is the most precious thing! He was born at 12:30pm (I made it JUST in time) weighing 6 pounds 12 ounces and measuring at 19 inches long! He has really long feet and really long fingers! He is the first boy on my moms side of the family in 51 years so he will definately be spoiled and DEFINATELY know how to treat a lady with all us girls around. They named him Colt L. Carlton. The middle name is not determined yet but it will start with a "L" to ensure he has the same initials as grandaddy who passes away this past August. I know that he was kissed by Grandaddy and Uncle Mike today before he was born! :) And man...let me tell you...the baby fever has definately spiked today! :) Here are some pictures! Congrats to the new parents, Spenser and Ozzie!
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
Monday, May 31, 2010
Desperate HouseWIFE
So for those of you who follow me on Facebook, you will have seen that a couple of weeks ago I managed to burn Hamburger Helper. Seriously...WHO DOES THAT?! This, of course, had me questioning my skills as a housewife. So...tonight Jake came home from this bachelor party and I decided that I was going to have him walk into the apartment to a cold beer and a delicious dinner. I literally HAD to pay attention to nothing but the food otherwise I would forget and then we will have a repeat of the HH massacre. I cooked mesquite pork roast, roasted garlic potatoes, and green beans and it turned out AMAZING! :) As you can see I am slightly proud of myself...and Jake was proud of me too! He kept complimenting the food and THE COOK! Hopefully he wasn't just being nice...
Here is the fabulous finished product!
Here is the fabulous finished product!
Dont Get Married Without Me
Rob Cross is our videographer...we haven't even worked with him yet and we already LOVE him. His work is amazing and we cannot wait to see the final product. Here is a link to one of his couples. With him, you get your own website with full footage of the wedding, the barefeet, daddys girl, and photos. All of these things will make more sense when you watch this couples website! :) Enjoy and I definately recmmend him for anyone.
http://stefanieandbrad.com/barefeet.html
http://stefanieandbrad.com/barefeet.html
Progress
Lots of wedding things accomplished today :) I LOVVEEE those days! We bought all of the frames we need for the entry into the reception all for the sign in table and the memorial table. We also got all the candles for our sweetheart table. I have scheduled our "barefeet" with the videographer for Wednesday and my Boudoir session with my photographer for next week at Hotel ZaZa (which is the same hotel Jake and I are staying in our wedding night...ZEBRA CARPET!) I've picked out my three outfits for the session and now it's down to fasting and tanning so I look as good as possible :) I booked the suite at the Marriott in Sugarland for the night before the wedding so all my girls can stay with me! 9 of my favorite people in the whole world to spend my last night as a Zotyka with?!?! Could not imagine anything more perfect! There is still lots and lots to do but school is over in 4 days (PRAISE THE LORD) and I will then become bridezilla....well maybe not that extreme but wedding will definately consume my life.
Jake survived his bachelor party and DEFINATELY had some stories to tell :) I'm ssooo glad he had a blast and was able to enjoy a real bachelor party.
Hope you're enjoying your day off of work :)
A
Jake survived his bachelor party and DEFINATELY had some stories to tell :) I'm ssooo glad he had a blast and was able to enjoy a real bachelor party.
Hope you're enjoying your day off of work :)
A
Sunday, May 30, 2010
Boys Will Be Boys
Jake is currently in Corpus Christi with his buddies for his very own bachelor party. I know...most of ya'll are thinking of "The Hangover" scenario...but I'm not at all worried. I want him to have a great time and if that includes titty bars and lap dances than so be it. I'm not at all a jealous or insecure person...I just want him to have fun! I even told him that I WANT him to see some pretty big nice boobs because after this weekend, he is stuck with mine for the rest of his life :) Actually, the first text he sent me was a picture of an old womans saggy boobs saying those were the first he had seen all weekend! It was hot. As long as he come back in one piece then I am okay with whatever. I definately cannot wait for mine on June 12th!
I have had a extremely peaceful and relaxing Memorial weekend. I am very blessed with work with such amazing people, have friends that will do anything at the drop of a hat for me, and an absolutely incredible and cRAZY fun family. GOD IS GOOD! :)
Hope you all had an equally relaxing and great weekend!
Still waiting on baby Colt...
:) Ashley
I have had a extremely peaceful and relaxing Memorial weekend. I am very blessed with work with such amazing people, have friends that will do anything at the drop of a hat for me, and an absolutely incredible and cRAZY fun family. GOD IS GOOD! :)
Hope you all had an equally relaxing and great weekend!
Still waiting on baby Colt...
:) Ashley
Monday, May 24, 2010
Pictures!
You didn't think I would leave ya'll without pictures did you?!?! :)
"Your buddies will marry and bury you" :) They will definately all be marrying us in 25 days! Love them all!
Gator 2
Jake carrying in the flag for graduation
My graduate :)
"Your buddies will marry and bury you" :) They will definately all be marrying us in 25 days! Love them all!
Gator 2
Jake carrying in the flag for graduation
My graduate :)
Life Moves SSSOOO Fast
We have been crazy busy these past several days. Jake graduated last weekend from Texas A&M University with his Bachelor of Science in Human Resource Development with a minor in business and I could not be more proud of him! :) It was an overwhelming feeling watching him walk across that stage. I've watched him grow and become the incredible man he is today all four years here. He was asked by his college to carry thier flag into the ceremony which was also pretty amazing. How often do you get asked to do things like that? AND how highly thought of are you to even be asked?! Like I said, he has made incredible strides these past four years as a Corps member, humanitarian, and most of all, a man. If you can't tell, I was BEAMING with pride and coule brag about him for hours. THAT'S MY MAN! He also had Final Review with the Corps and then we moved him out of the dorm for the last and final time. He moved back in with his mom because we have chosen not to live together before the wedding. We want to experience that together for the first time once we are man and wife. We want it to be an experience we can grow from. Man I cannot wait till we are finally living together...just the two of us in our own little apartment. :) Us and Tini of course!
This past weekend, we went to New Braunfels with my cousin and her fiance for Kurt's birthday. It was crazy fun! We floated the river and relaxed all weekend which is something I think both of us needed especially with everything else crazy going on right now.
We had our 30 day out meeting with Lesli (our wedding planner) and it turns out we are way more ahead of the game than most people at this point according to her so YAY US! Or more, yay my mom because most of the details wouldn't be done without her. We nailed down the details of the ceremony and reception and I know it's going to be absolutely perfect.
I got all the bridesmaids gifts in the mail and they came out way better than I expected! I am so excited about them! We ordered our cake topper and our God's Knot. For those of ya'll that don't know what a God's Knot is, we are doing it in place of a unity candle. Here is the link with more information. It fits our ceremony and what we believe is the basis of our marriage. http://www.godsknot.com/
Only 8 more days of school for me! And I cannot tell you how amazingly excited I am to finally have my first year of teaching under my belt. We have been busy getting things ready for next year and I have been trying to move all my things to my new classroom. Volleyball is all set for next year so it should be a pretty smooth transition into next year WITH MY NEW LAST NAME! :) The coolest part...I've been tagging my bookshelves and file cabinets that I want to take with me to my new room with a bright pink sheet of paper that has "Zotyka/Manchaca" on it! It's absolutely wonderful. And all my kids are pretty wonderful too. They are already calling me Mrs. Manchaca. It defiantely brightens my day to hear that.
Jake started working at Gulf States Trucking with his brother as a financial adminstrator today...please pray for his guidance into this new job and hope that he accomplishes everything he wants to. Also, my beautiful cousin Spenser is expected COLT pretty soon so please pray for a smooth and easy birth with a beautiful healthy baby boy as a result! :) Can't wait to meet him!
We are down to 25 days and could not be more excited! It's going by so fast! :)
With love,
Ashley
This past weekend, we went to New Braunfels with my cousin and her fiance for Kurt's birthday. It was crazy fun! We floated the river and relaxed all weekend which is something I think both of us needed especially with everything else crazy going on right now.
We had our 30 day out meeting with Lesli (our wedding planner) and it turns out we are way more ahead of the game than most people at this point according to her so YAY US! Or more, yay my mom because most of the details wouldn't be done without her. We nailed down the details of the ceremony and reception and I know it's going to be absolutely perfect.
I got all the bridesmaids gifts in the mail and they came out way better than I expected! I am so excited about them! We ordered our cake topper and our God's Knot. For those of ya'll that don't know what a God's Knot is, we are doing it in place of a unity candle. Here is the link with more information. It fits our ceremony and what we believe is the basis of our marriage. http://www.godsknot.com/
Only 8 more days of school for me! And I cannot tell you how amazingly excited I am to finally have my first year of teaching under my belt. We have been busy getting things ready for next year and I have been trying to move all my things to my new classroom. Volleyball is all set for next year so it should be a pretty smooth transition into next year WITH MY NEW LAST NAME! :) The coolest part...I've been tagging my bookshelves and file cabinets that I want to take with me to my new room with a bright pink sheet of paper that has "Zotyka/Manchaca" on it! It's absolutely wonderful. And all my kids are pretty wonderful too. They are already calling me Mrs. Manchaca. It defiantely brightens my day to hear that.
Jake started working at Gulf States Trucking with his brother as a financial adminstrator today...please pray for his guidance into this new job and hope that he accomplishes everything he wants to. Also, my beautiful cousin Spenser is expected COLT pretty soon so please pray for a smooth and easy birth with a beautiful healthy baby boy as a result! :) Can't wait to meet him!
We are down to 25 days and could not be more excited! It's going by so fast! :)
With love,
Ashley
Sunday, May 9, 2010
A Tribute to My Mommy :)
Pamela Lynn Clark Zotyka ... my mom, my mentor, my confidant, my absolute best friend. I love you so much momma! Happy Mother's Day!
Saturday, May 8, 2010
Wade & Wedding
Productive and relaxing are the best two words I can come up with for the past couple of days. Relaxing?!?...well lets just say last night I felt like I was in college again which was incredible. I haven't felt that good, relaxed, and stress-free in a very long time. Jake and I met some friends up at Big Texas to see my man Wade Bowen. He was absolutely wonderful...as usual. I had a great time country dancing with my fiance. Although we may not know all the best country dancing moves (we do know some :D), he's the best dancer because it's like I fit perfectly into his arms and body and our feet just kinda move together on thier own. We always joke about "my nook" which is basically his armpit...that spot was created for me. :) There is no other man on this earth that can dance with me like he can. After last night, we decided that "Who I Am" by WB is going to be our first dance at the wedding! YAY! Jake surprised me with a rose and then took me up to buy a shirt and get it autographed by Wade Bowen...it was awesome! I even got to take a picture with him :) TOTALLY made my night. What made it feel like college again was the trip to Whataburger at 2 in the morning...ohhhh memories.
Productivity has been the word of the week now that I am officially done with track and volleyball. Our invitations came in on Tuesday and my mom calls me and tells me to "call in the troops"...this doesn't sound good. Little did I know that the fine print on the invitation order form stated ASSEMBLY REQUIRED. Two of my least favorite words. Our invitations are what is called pocket invitations. Everything came separate. ggggeeeeezzzzzzz. Luckily, I have an amazing mom, dad, and cousin that helped me put everything together. It took about a total of 6 hours to put 150 invitations together. All that's left to do is place the stamps on the RSVP envelopes and on the invitations envelope then they are good to go! If all goes as planned, they will be mailed out on Monday! whew...one thing checked off the neverending to-do list :) Like Tanya said, that night I dreamt of invitations and glue dots! Today, we had our appointment to pick out our linens for the chairs. It didn't take long since we knew pretty much exactly what we wanted...although they aren't exactly sure they know how to do the tie I want on the chairs. Nothing to freak out over, I just have to send her a picture of how I want them and if she has to teach her set up crew how to do them she will tack on an additional charge. It's only money right?!?! :) I've never realized so much how quickly things add up...it's out of control. I'm just so grateful I have parents who support me and want Jake and I to have the perfect day. I also spent about 2 hours today picking out and ordering the bridesmaids gifts for my favorite girls! I can't wait to see thier faces when they see what I got for them. These girls are my life and have watched Jake and I's relationship grow from the beginning. I know they have always and will continue to pray for our guidance as we enter this convenant together. They will witness and support us on our wedding day. I know there is no REAL way to thank them for something like that...I love each and every one of you more than you will ever know. Things left to do on the list consist of programs, place cards, table numbers, "bare feet" with videographer, ALL of the 30 day appointments with each vendor...come June 2 (once I'm done with school) I'm going to be one crazed bride. :) CAN'T WAIT!
I ask that you please continue to pray for Jake as he searches for a job....no leads yet but I know that the right one is just around the corner. Happiness has a funny way of taking it's own time. :)
Ashley Lynn
Productivity has been the word of the week now that I am officially done with track and volleyball. Our invitations came in on Tuesday and my mom calls me and tells me to "call in the troops"...this doesn't sound good. Little did I know that the fine print on the invitation order form stated ASSEMBLY REQUIRED. Two of my least favorite words. Our invitations are what is called pocket invitations. Everything came separate. ggggeeeeezzzzzzz. Luckily, I have an amazing mom, dad, and cousin that helped me put everything together. It took about a total of 6 hours to put 150 invitations together. All that's left to do is place the stamps on the RSVP envelopes and on the invitations envelope then they are good to go! If all goes as planned, they will be mailed out on Monday! whew...one thing checked off the neverending to-do list :) Like Tanya said, that night I dreamt of invitations and glue dots! Today, we had our appointment to pick out our linens for the chairs. It didn't take long since we knew pretty much exactly what we wanted...although they aren't exactly sure they know how to do the tie I want on the chairs. Nothing to freak out over, I just have to send her a picture of how I want them and if she has to teach her set up crew how to do them she will tack on an additional charge. It's only money right?!?! :) I've never realized so much how quickly things add up...it's out of control. I'm just so grateful I have parents who support me and want Jake and I to have the perfect day. I also spent about 2 hours today picking out and ordering the bridesmaids gifts for my favorite girls! I can't wait to see thier faces when they see what I got for them. These girls are my life and have watched Jake and I's relationship grow from the beginning. I know they have always and will continue to pray for our guidance as we enter this convenant together. They will witness and support us on our wedding day. I know there is no REAL way to thank them for something like that...I love each and every one of you more than you will ever know. Things left to do on the list consist of programs, place cards, table numbers, "bare feet" with videographer, ALL of the 30 day appointments with each vendor...come June 2 (once I'm done with school) I'm going to be one crazed bride. :) CAN'T WAIT!
I ask that you please continue to pray for Jake as he searches for a job....no leads yet but I know that the right one is just around the corner. Happiness has a funny way of taking it's own time. :)
Ashley Lynn
Friday, May 7, 2010
Well my final semester is finally coming to an end and it is such an awesome feeling to know I am about to Graduate from A&M and be done with the Corps!!!! The past few weeks have been so weird because reality has been hitting me in the face with all the things that I am doing for the last time in the Corps. The Corps has really taken my life over for the past 4 years and it is so weird to think that in 8 days I will be walking across the stage to graduate in my senior boots and then marching final review for my final pass as a cadet in Gator 2!!!! It's really hard to explain the bitter sweet feeling that I am being consumed with lately. I am definately more excited than I have ever probably been before about all the amazing things that are going on in my life right now and coming up in barely a month!!!!!! I do not know how else to say this but Ashley has been such a major support beam for me these past 4 years in the Corps through all the extremely difficult times that have come up and gone. It takes a hell of a woman and some type of crazy LOVE to stick around all four years of the Corps and I cannot thank her enough for that support she has given me.
Well enough of that cause it's making me feel all funny inside thinking about the past 5 years of college life and everything I have faced and overcome. But, lately has been such an amazing time thinking about the wedding and the new direction our lives are taking. I did not realize how excited I would get about the wedding! People always ask me if I am getting cold feet yet and I understand that this is a large change in our lives but I haven't ever felt something so right and known without a doubt that God has me where he wants me and there is just no question about it! I feel like this blog is kind of me just rambeling on but for those of you who have ever had so much going on in your lives that is so exciting and showing how much you have accomplished in a time in your life then you know the feelings I am having right now. I really don't have much else to say but I am so excited for the next several weeks because I am closing an amazing chapter of my life and starting another amazing chapter that I have been working so hard for the past five years!
I love ya'll and cannot wait to see ya'll at the Wedding!
Well enough of that cause it's making me feel all funny inside thinking about the past 5 years of college life and everything I have faced and overcome. But, lately has been such an amazing time thinking about the wedding and the new direction our lives are taking. I did not realize how excited I would get about the wedding! People always ask me if I am getting cold feet yet and I understand that this is a large change in our lives but I haven't ever felt something so right and known without a doubt that God has me where he wants me and there is just no question about it! I feel like this blog is kind of me just rambeling on but for those of you who have ever had so much going on in your lives that is so exciting and showing how much you have accomplished in a time in your life then you know the feelings I am having right now. I really don't have much else to say but I am so excited for the next several weeks because I am closing an amazing chapter of my life and starting another amazing chapter that I have been working so hard for the past five years!
I love ya'll and cannot wait to see ya'll at the Wedding!
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Picture Update :)
OOOPPS! I meant to leave ya'll with some pictures from our lives the past couple of months...bridal showers and rodeo! :)
Uncle Jake & Sadie :)
The fabulous hostesses of one of our bridal showers :)
Hosts of our couples shower :)
my AMAZING parents :)
Maid of Honor :)
Bridesmaids :)
Bridesmaid :)
i.love.you.
Tay came to visit us :) LOVE YOU BFF.
June 18th REALLY can't be here fast enough :)
hubby :)
Ashley :)
Uncle Jake & Sadie :)
The fabulous hostesses of one of our bridal showers :)
Hosts of our couples shower :)
my AMAZING parents :)
Maid of Honor :)
Bridesmaids :)
Bridesmaid :)
i.love.you.
Tay came to visit us :) LOVE YOU BFF.
June 18th REALLY can't be here fast enough :)
hubby :)
Ashley :)
52 days out
So we have officially have 52 days till we say I DO! It has gone so fast and my mom is there to quickly remind me how much I still have left to do. It's extremely hard for me to delegate the things I need to get done but at this point, I really don't have a choice because I honestly have NO time to get everything done. We ordered invitations last week and hope to recieve them by the end of this week so we can stuff them and have them mailed out by Monday of next week. My mom and Aunt Cheryl have been working on the programs...we still haven't narrowed down exactly how we want them worded or what color paper we are going to use but all that should be done this weekend. My mom has been incredible these past couple of weeks while I've been so busy. She has made sure that I stay on top of things and get things done...even though she drives me a little nuts about it sometimes but I couldn't get any of it done without her. Thank you momma...I know I don't tell you enough. We are slowly getting the ceremony mapped out with music and who is walking who down the aisle. There is so much stuff you don't even think about! AAHHHHH.
On to the less stressful things...we had three showers in the past couple of weeks. All were absolutely incredible and so much fun. We are so blessed to have family and friends that care about us and love us so much and support us during this huge step in our lives. We got lots of goodies (we can't even fit it all in the apartment). We will have to store some of it till we move into a house hopefully in November. We definately have more than we deserve to begin our lives together. We went this past weekend and registered for more things so that people have a variety to choose from for the wedding because after those showers, we were quickly running out of a registry because we were getting so many things! Which we are soo very thankful for...but man oh man the thank you cards are brutal! I don't even want to think about them after the wedding. Speaking of after the wedding, we finally booked our honeymoon for 9 days and 8 nights in Kona Village in Hawaii. We couldn't decide if we wanted to spend most of our time running around doing all the tourist things or if we wanted to relax and enjoy our time together. We decided that all the major things we wanted to see in Hawaii were on the main island (Pearl Harbor, volcanos, horseback riding) which is where Kona is so we can spend most of our time relaxing and staying around (or in) the hut :) Sorry momma and daddy!
Well track is almost over as well as club volleyball so once that's done I will hoepfully have a little room to breathe. I recently found out I was being moved to 9th grade next year due to an influx of incoming freshman. I wasn't too keen on the idea at first but I've met with them a couple of times and they are all really nice and I am very much looking forward to working with them. Although I will miss Jill and Meggan like CRAZY! We are in the middle of TAKS testing right now which is a major snooze fest but the year is drawing to a close so things are going to be hectic trying to get everything in before the end of May. I feel like I'm handling my stress well though...I haven't had any recent stomach issues. I usually run when I'm really stressed or relax with a glass of wine (which happens more often lately :D). Jill tells me that The Creek drives people to drink...well I guess I'm a product of that theory. Soon we will be having 30 days meetings with all of our vendors so I have a feeling once school slows down...wedding will pick up. Which is definately okay because I want everything to be perfect and I want everyone to have an amazing time! :D
Jake is slowly finishing up his internship and has really put himself out there in terms of using his contacts and getting his resume out there in hopes for an interview. We has had a couple of companies contact him but no interviews yet. We will continue to pray for his guidance into the real world. Prayers sent his way are defiantely appreciated. I, personally, am not too concerned because I know him. He is incredibly intelligent and a hard worker. Everything he does, he puts his whole heart into. He'e the kind of guy you know that no matter what the situation or what time of day or how long it has been since ya'll have talked, he would drop anything and everything in a heartbeat to help you. He is all about meeting new people and trying new experiences and excelling in EVERYTHING he does. Overachiever?! Nope...passionate. He is an incredible person to know and love and I am lucky enough to be loved unconditionally by him. God has given me this gift I'm not sure what to do with but I do know that I will love him for everything he is. If you do not know him, you are missing a piece of something in your life. Jake Manchaca is my soulmate and love of my life...and I will soon be blessed enough to call him my husband :) If that doesn't make a girl cry, I'm not sure what will.
Please continue to send prayers Jake's way in the job process. Hopefully we will have some great news soon. I will try to keep up with the blog more than I have lately. We love you all and God bless.
Future Mrs. Manchaca :)
On to the less stressful things...we had three showers in the past couple of weeks. All were absolutely incredible and so much fun. We are so blessed to have family and friends that care about us and love us so much and support us during this huge step in our lives. We got lots of goodies (we can't even fit it all in the apartment). We will have to store some of it till we move into a house hopefully in November. We definately have more than we deserve to begin our lives together. We went this past weekend and registered for more things so that people have a variety to choose from for the wedding because after those showers, we were quickly running out of a registry because we were getting so many things! Which we are soo very thankful for...but man oh man the thank you cards are brutal! I don't even want to think about them after the wedding. Speaking of after the wedding, we finally booked our honeymoon for 9 days and 8 nights in Kona Village in Hawaii. We couldn't decide if we wanted to spend most of our time running around doing all the tourist things or if we wanted to relax and enjoy our time together. We decided that all the major things we wanted to see in Hawaii were on the main island (Pearl Harbor, volcanos, horseback riding) which is where Kona is so we can spend most of our time relaxing and staying around (or in) the hut :) Sorry momma and daddy!
Well track is almost over as well as club volleyball so once that's done I will hoepfully have a little room to breathe. I recently found out I was being moved to 9th grade next year due to an influx of incoming freshman. I wasn't too keen on the idea at first but I've met with them a couple of times and they are all really nice and I am very much looking forward to working with them. Although I will miss Jill and Meggan like CRAZY! We are in the middle of TAKS testing right now which is a major snooze fest but the year is drawing to a close so things are going to be hectic trying to get everything in before the end of May. I feel like I'm handling my stress well though...I haven't had any recent stomach issues. I usually run when I'm really stressed or relax with a glass of wine (which happens more often lately :D). Jill tells me that The Creek drives people to drink...well I guess I'm a product of that theory. Soon we will be having 30 days meetings with all of our vendors so I have a feeling once school slows down...wedding will pick up. Which is definately okay because I want everything to be perfect and I want everyone to have an amazing time! :D
Jake is slowly finishing up his internship and has really put himself out there in terms of using his contacts and getting his resume out there in hopes for an interview. We has had a couple of companies contact him but no interviews yet. We will continue to pray for his guidance into the real world. Prayers sent his way are defiantely appreciated. I, personally, am not too concerned because I know him. He is incredibly intelligent and a hard worker. Everything he does, he puts his whole heart into. He'e the kind of guy you know that no matter what the situation or what time of day or how long it has been since ya'll have talked, he would drop anything and everything in a heartbeat to help you. He is all about meeting new people and trying new experiences and excelling in EVERYTHING he does. Overachiever?! Nope...passionate. He is an incredible person to know and love and I am lucky enough to be loved unconditionally by him. God has given me this gift I'm not sure what to do with but I do know that I will love him for everything he is. If you do not know him, you are missing a piece of something in your life. Jake Manchaca is my soulmate and love of my life...and I will soon be blessed enough to call him my husband :) If that doesn't make a girl cry, I'm not sure what will.
Please continue to send prayers Jake's way in the job process. Hopefully we will have some great news soon. I will try to keep up with the blog more than I have lately. We love you all and God bless.
Future Mrs. Manchaca :)
Monday, March 29, 2010
What's been up lately!!!!
So, lately things have started falling in place for us. I would be lying if I said it isn't a little nerve racking with all the things going on that are about to change our lives in a big but amazing way! We are definately excited about the apartment still and I think Ashley is really getting settled in and feeling more at home but just a little anxcious for me to move in so she's not living alone anymore. I am definately getting more excited as the days go by because I am starting to see the big opening at the end of this long incredible tunnel I have been going through with the school and the Corps!
On another note, I have been getting to work with horses a lot lately and have really gained a lot of knowledge in a short period of time. My riding technique and ability has improved really quickly in the past couple of weeks which is really awesome to me! I have really started to understand what makes a horse follow someone and in the process I have learned a lot about myself and the tuff task of not giving up on something difficult. It may sound a little corny but I have learned so much from starting to train horses because of how smart they are and it has been one of the most rewarding things I have ever done.
Off to another topic! As exciting as the past few weeks have been they have also been really stressful because Ashley and I haven't been able to spend the amount of quality time together as we would like togehter in church and outside of church. But, this past weekend definately turned that around and made us feel like we were living a different life because of how good being able to go to church together made us feel.
To close out this blog entry, I will say that many people have asked me questions about knowing when you have found the person that you are supposed to be with for the rest of your life and how do you know if it is true love! My response to them is what a lot of people say. When it happens, when you find that person, you will just know! You will know deep down in you gut and heart because that other person will feel like your counterpart that has finally filled that void that God has put in your life for your spouse. She will make you a better person and allow you to fulfill God's will and plan. That is one hell of a strong feeling and bond that is built with another person that is meant to be your partner for the rest of your life. When you meet that person all of the sudden you don't feel nervous about making a covenant with another person under God that is a part of life that completes two people in a way that only God can create and allow!
The wedding is getting closer and we cannot wait until that day when we get to spend an amazing and fun day with the people we love the most! Love yall!!!
On another note, I have been getting to work with horses a lot lately and have really gained a lot of knowledge in a short period of time. My riding technique and ability has improved really quickly in the past couple of weeks which is really awesome to me! I have really started to understand what makes a horse follow someone and in the process I have learned a lot about myself and the tuff task of not giving up on something difficult. It may sound a little corny but I have learned so much from starting to train horses because of how smart they are and it has been one of the most rewarding things I have ever done.
Off to another topic! As exciting as the past few weeks have been they have also been really stressful because Ashley and I haven't been able to spend the amount of quality time together as we would like togehter in church and outside of church. But, this past weekend definately turned that around and made us feel like we were living a different life because of how good being able to go to church together made us feel.
To close out this blog entry, I will say that many people have asked me questions about knowing when you have found the person that you are supposed to be with for the rest of your life and how do you know if it is true love! My response to them is what a lot of people say. When it happens, when you find that person, you will just know! You will know deep down in you gut and heart because that other person will feel like your counterpart that has finally filled that void that God has put in your life for your spouse. She will make you a better person and allow you to fulfill God's will and plan. That is one hell of a strong feeling and bond that is built with another person that is meant to be your partner for the rest of your life. When you meet that person all of the sudden you don't feel nervous about making a covenant with another person under God that is a part of life that completes two people in a way that only God can create and allow!
The wedding is getting closer and we cannot wait until that day when we get to spend an amazing and fun day with the people we love the most! Love yall!!!
Monday, March 22, 2010
Some Free Time...maybeeee.
It has been over a week since I've been able to sit down and have enough time to blog about updates...and maannnnn are there a lot of updates! :D Wonderful updates of course! We are finally moved and settled into our apartment and it is absolutely amazing! I have decorated (blank walls drive me nuts) and I will have pictures up as soon as I get my camera cord from my parents house. Jake and I are completely in love with the area which is why I think we have decided to stay around here rather than move into Sugarland. Although we won't be able to build a house around here, the older homes are sooo nice and so adorable that we would rather spend the money to stay in this area rather than build a new house. I am SSOOO excited!
I had my bridals done at Briscoe Manor last Wednesday. The day ended up being gorgeous which relieved me because the day before it was rainy and gross so that kinda made me nervous. My mom and Tanya spent the day with me getting my hair done and my makeup done which was a lot of fun! I can't wait to spend that kind of day with all of my bridesmaids! :D It was surreal being in the chapel we are getting married in in less than three months with my wedding dress on and everything. Daddy even met us there and it was amazing! We went all over the property and took pictures. I cannot wait to see the final product...I'm sure Alison did an amazing job just like everything else she does. I should be able to see them sometime this week. We scheduled my Boudoir session for June. For those of you who do not know what that is, it is very sensual and sexy pictures done for the groom. I am like 98% excited and 2% nervous about them and I know that once I get started I will relax 100%. Tanya did some a while back and they turned out incredible so she is going to go with me and talk to me about poses and stuff while I do them. Here is a website with some examples...but Alison will be doing mine. http://www.houstonboudoir.com/#
Thursday, Jake, Debbie, my dad and myself went back to Briscoe for our private food tasting and to narrow down some details of the wedding day. The food was CRAZY GOOD and it was really hard to decide which dishes we wanted at the wedding but we did it...only because we had to. :D We also picked out a kids menu for the little ones so they aren't eating an entire plate of the adult food which I'm sure they wouldn't like. Soooo they are going to be enjoying chicken nuggets, fries, and fruit! We also hired two babysitters for that night up in the groom's suite so the adults can be worry-free and have fun! The only sad part is when Rachel (wedding planner) was asking what I would like in the bridal suite to eat and drink she informed me that I am only allowed water :( (because everything else could stain my dress which I'm glad they are looking out for but a nice Mimosa or glass of wine would be nice). We will also have cheese and crackers to snack on while we are getting ready and waiting. OMG I CANNOT WAIT! Not to be concided or anything but this is going to be an amazingly gorgeous wedding...not because it's ours but because of the people around us helping us prepare and the people that will be there to celebrate with us and watch us take this amazing covenant with God.
Even though I didn't really have much of a Spring Break due to all the wedding stuff and the TSU track meet, it was a great week and we got a lot accomplished. Jake and I are in the process of doing some pre-marital counseling and we are learning a lot about each other through http://www.fireproofmymarriage.com. Fireproof is a book that I suggest to any couple about to get married. Its incredible how spiritual you find yourself to be and close to God we really are. He is working in us every second of everday...He is all around us; we just have to take the time to look and notice.
Pictures of the apartment are coming soon I SWEAR! :D
With love and prayers,
A
I had my bridals done at Briscoe Manor last Wednesday. The day ended up being gorgeous which relieved me because the day before it was rainy and gross so that kinda made me nervous. My mom and Tanya spent the day with me getting my hair done and my makeup done which was a lot of fun! I can't wait to spend that kind of day with all of my bridesmaids! :D It was surreal being in the chapel we are getting married in in less than three months with my wedding dress on and everything. Daddy even met us there and it was amazing! We went all over the property and took pictures. I cannot wait to see the final product...I'm sure Alison did an amazing job just like everything else she does. I should be able to see them sometime this week. We scheduled my Boudoir session for June. For those of you who do not know what that is, it is very sensual and sexy pictures done for the groom. I am like 98% excited and 2% nervous about them and I know that once I get started I will relax 100%. Tanya did some a while back and they turned out incredible so she is going to go with me and talk to me about poses and stuff while I do them. Here is a website with some examples...but Alison will be doing mine. http://www.houstonboudoir.com/#
Thursday, Jake, Debbie, my dad and myself went back to Briscoe for our private food tasting and to narrow down some details of the wedding day. The food was CRAZY GOOD and it was really hard to decide which dishes we wanted at the wedding but we did it...only because we had to. :D We also picked out a kids menu for the little ones so they aren't eating an entire plate of the adult food which I'm sure they wouldn't like. Soooo they are going to be enjoying chicken nuggets, fries, and fruit! We also hired two babysitters for that night up in the groom's suite so the adults can be worry-free and have fun! The only sad part is when Rachel (wedding planner) was asking what I would like in the bridal suite to eat and drink she informed me that I am only allowed water :( (because everything else could stain my dress which I'm glad they are looking out for but a nice Mimosa or glass of wine would be nice). We will also have cheese and crackers to snack on while we are getting ready and waiting. OMG I CANNOT WAIT! Not to be concided or anything but this is going to be an amazingly gorgeous wedding...not because it's ours but because of the people around us helping us prepare and the people that will be there to celebrate with us and watch us take this amazing covenant with God.
Even though I didn't really have much of a Spring Break due to all the wedding stuff and the TSU track meet, it was a great week and we got a lot accomplished. Jake and I are in the process of doing some pre-marital counseling and we are learning a lot about each other through http://www.fireproofmymarriage.com. Fireproof is a book that I suggest to any couple about to get married. Its incredible how spiritual you find yourself to be and close to God we really are. He is working in us every second of everday...He is all around us; we just have to take the time to look and notice.
Pictures of the apartment are coming soon I SWEAR! :D
With love and prayers,
A
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Ahhh memories
Ummm, first of all I just want to set the record straight that I was not the one asking for the other person's number the first night Ashley and I might at the rodeo. Hahahahaha, okay maybe I was!!! Well lately Ashley and myself have been extremely busy and time has been flying by and bringing the wedding thankfully closer everyday. I am sitting here watching "The Soloist" and it has reminded me of the little things in life that are so special and how it is those little things in life that make me truly happy. Ashley and I share so many of those little moments that make me happier than I have ever been before. One of those special times we had was a few years back during which was what I believe was our first spring break together, hahaha!!!! It was probably the best and absolutely worst spring break I have ever experienced myself and probably Ashley as well. The great part is that I just saved a bunch of money on my car insurance by swtiching to Geico...no but seriously Ashley is asleep and keeps calling me while she's sleeping and not saying anything. Well, back to the story now...we were driving through Rockport and looking for our condo and finally we got there. I should have known by the rain that followed us into Rockport that something was not right about that day, haha. But, I was wrong because we found our beautiful little condo with tons of huge beautiful trees around! So, we checked in and got settled in the condo and then proceeded to go grocery shopping and thats when the fit hit the shan!!! Those dang huge beautiful trees became a huge ugly pain in my butt and more so a huge pain in Ashley's car's butt, hahaha! Ashley, asked me to drive to the store and I said ya I'll drive and then BANGGG!!!! I hit the huge tree in my blind spot, in Ashley's car, and in only 30 minutes of arriving in town for our first VACATION togather! HAHA, it really was a great spring break once we got passes the histerical crying and freak out sessions. In all seriousness that is a memory that I cherish forever because of how much fun we still had together even though I wrecked her car and it rained the entire trip. I have known for a long time that I loved Ashley with EVERYTHING I have and EVERYTHING I am, and I have never doubted!
J
J
Monday, March 8, 2010
LVS 14 Blue
Please meet my babies! :D They truly make my day! I LOVE THEM SO MUCH and are soo proud of them! DO WORK!
Vendors Galore!
Thought I would share our vendors with you in case some of you are planning a wedding! Of course, we believe we have booked THE BEST OF THE BEST!
If you ever need photography, videography, caterer, or venue for any event, PLEASE use these vendors! They are incredible to work with and make your life so much easier than imagined! LOVE THEM and recommend them at the drop of a hat!
Photography
http://www.carlinosphotography.com
This woman knows what she's doing! SO MUCH FUN!
Videography
http://dontgetmarriedwithoutme.com
Rob is amazing! His videos are so real and not all that fancy crap! They really capture the moment!
Venue
http://www.briscoemanor.com
Of course, the most gorgeous place on Gods green earth to get married. The pictures don't even begin to do it justice! They are partner with Behind the Bash catering...who are just as perfect!
Flowers
http://www.freshbloomsofhouston.com
Cristina did a mock up of our centerpieces RIGHT THERE on the SPOT...it was gorgeous! Jake and I were just floored! I have my bridals next week so I will get to have a sneak peek at what my bridal bouquet will look like! :D
Cake
http://www.cakesbygina.com
Can we say yyummmmm!?!?! I think this was Jake's favorite part of wedding planning! We CANNOT wait to see Jake's cake! :D Secret revealed 6.18.10.
Don't forget to check out our registries at Macy's, Z Gallerie, and Bed, Bath, and Beyond! :D
http://www.macys.com
http://www.bedbathandbeyond.com
http://www.zgallerie.com (password:ajm61810)
We move into the apartment this weekend...YAY! We start painting on Thursday so once we are done painting I will post pictures of the gorgeousness that is our apartment!
God Bless,
J&A
If you ever need photography, videography, caterer, or venue for any event, PLEASE use these vendors! They are incredible to work with and make your life so much easier than imagined! LOVE THEM and recommend them at the drop of a hat!
Photography
http://www.carlinosphotography.com
This woman knows what she's doing! SO MUCH FUN!
Videography
http://dontgetmarriedwithoutme.com
Rob is amazing! His videos are so real and not all that fancy crap! They really capture the moment!
Venue
http://www.briscoemanor.com
Of course, the most gorgeous place on Gods green earth to get married. The pictures don't even begin to do it justice! They are partner with Behind the Bash catering...who are just as perfect!
Flowers
http://www.freshbloomsofhouston.com
Cristina did a mock up of our centerpieces RIGHT THERE on the SPOT...it was gorgeous! Jake and I were just floored! I have my bridals next week so I will get to have a sneak peek at what my bridal bouquet will look like! :D
Cake
http://www.cakesbygina.com
Can we say yyummmmm!?!?! I think this was Jake's favorite part of wedding planning! We CANNOT wait to see Jake's cake! :D Secret revealed 6.18.10.
Don't forget to check out our registries at Macy's, Z Gallerie, and Bed, Bath, and Beyond! :D
http://www.macys.com
http://www.bedbathandbeyond.com
http://www.zgallerie.com (password:ajm61810)
We move into the apartment this weekend...YAY! We start painting on Thursday so once we are done painting I will post pictures of the gorgeousness that is our apartment!
God Bless,
J&A
Saturday, March 6, 2010
3.6.06
4 years ago today, Jake and I met at the rodeo while seeing Robert Earl King and Cross Canadian Ragweed. It's a long and actually entertaining story...which I'm sure Branson will be making a speech about at our wedding considering he was there. :D Huh B?! Anyways, Jake almost didn't go and I was on a date. A group of us met at a Chili's nearby and I don't actually remembering officially meeting Jake but he remembers meeting me because he told Jess that he thought I was hot. She told me and I believe my exact response was, "Who's Jake?!" HAHA! So, at the rodeo, he ended up dancing with my sister and I was, for some odd reason, really jealous. I'm not a jealous person but with him, it just was this weird ping in my stomach. So I intervened in my own unique way just to make him notice me and not my freaking sister! He ended up asking for my number (5 feet away from my date might I add) and called me like 2 minutes later before I even made it to my car. He hung up on me because apparently he didn't want to seem too desperate. Umm a little too late for that, dontchya think?! We spoke the next night on the phone for several hours and it's all history from there. At the beginning of our relationship there was a lot of staying up all night talking about anything and everything and watching Dangerus Minds. The funny part about that is that everytime we were together and would stay up talking, Dangerous Minds would come on so apparently they play that movie late at night. We quickly fell in love and knew from very early on that we were meant to spend the rest of our lives with each other.
Here are some pictures of the night we first met. :D
This was our first picture together...the first night we hung out after meeting at the rodeo :D
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