Goodbye 2011

Saturday, December 31, 2011

It's been a great year, 2011. Our first full year of marriage, the hubs last full year of undergrad, and so much more.

I've learned a lot about myself, and life this year.  It comes down to one line that I discovered when I first moved to Chicago, "live your life." As many of you know this has a very permanent place with me. I found a new, but similar quote on Pinterest recently that I think is something good to keep in mind, as well.


My 2012 wish for everyone: 

"Explore. Dream. Discover."

Little Victories

Thursday, December 29, 2011

Today my BIL (brother-in-law) commented on a Facebook post that I made saying "enjoy the little victories."

It's a PTO day miracle! I slept 'til 9:00!
 ·  · Yesterday at 9:45am near Chicago

So, I thought to myself, "what a good piece of advice." And, here I am at the end of a great year reminiscing about some little victories.

*Reading more books.
*One pound less on the scale.
*Making "friends" with a CTA bus driver.
*Paying off the car. (O.K. that might be a big victory!)
*Halas and Winnie sitting six inches away from each other on the bed.

This is just a snippet of some of my little victories of 2011. What would yours be?

Merry Christmas

Sunday, December 25, 2011







Merry Christmas!

I hope everyone has a wonderful holiday with the ones they love.

We'll be spending it at "home" in the Mitten.

A quiet afternoon with our little family - perfect.



It's Like One Mind

Tuesday, December 20, 2011

Well, I've decided just now that girls may not be all that different.

I was forwarded these two YouTube videos today, and found them to be quite accurate.

Episode One:


Episode Two:


I mean, shut up! I know we all like to think we're individuals and whatnot, but maybe we're not so unique after all.

I hope you enjoy this little afternoon treat as much I did! And also, that you only have two days left in your work week like I do!

Happy Tuesday!

Let's Go Green

Thursday, December 15, 2011

Side note to clear up my title for this post:
*Meaning environmentally friendly green, not root for the Spartans.

Well, this year time has really gotten away from me, and I didn't even think about holiday cards until this week. So, you're not going to get one for the Silvermans this year. Sorry.

Instead, I thought I would share with all of you my blog, and wish you merry greetings this way.

Here are some photos that could have been contenders for our holiday card:






Here are some phrases that we could have used for text in our holiday card:

"May your holiday season and new year be blessed with peace, love and joy."

"Warmest thoughts and best wishes for a wonderful holiday and a very happy new year."

"Our halls are decked, our souls are jolly, we're festively dressed and singing, by golly!"

*All card quotes were found on Vista Print where I would have ordered said holiday cards.

Next year, hopefully, I'll get my act together and take care of this in a more timely manner. Until then, we've had a wonderful 2011, and can't wait to see what 2012 has in store. We hope the same for you!

Hugs,

Mallory, the hubs, and the creatures

The Holidays Have Arrived!

Friday, December 9, 2011

Ok, so it's been much too long since I've posted. It's been a crazy few weeks, so I'll try to catch you up in as few words, and as many photos as possible!

So, November flew by so fast! I mean, I really don't know how it was even so possible that it went so quickly. I think most of the month was pretty "normal," and then there was VEGAS! What a great time! We spent three full days, and four nights seeing shows, visiting with family, walking the strip, and of course a little gambling in there too. We were welcomed by the in-laws with a fantastic "Thanksgiving Care Package" (as I like to call it).


We saw 'Jubilee' at Bally's on Thanksgiving night, followed by 'O' at Bellagio the next night. I'd recommend Jubilee if you want to see a traditional burlesque. O, however, was totally different and completely amazing! We had front row, center seats. We could see the performers' eyeballs. I wish we could have taken pictures to show you, but it wouldn't have done it justice. Just do me a favor, and next time your in sin city, go see O.



Our Vegas vacation ended on Sunday with a long day of travel on very little (I'm talking three hours people) sleep. Pick up the pooch, home, order pizza, and pass out! Fast forward (without really needing to fast forward) three days, and we're headed to Michigan!

Our Michigan weekend was great. It was full of variety. Dave shadowed a surgeon for half a day, and I spent time with my dad and sister. We visited Grandma, and played many rounds of double solitare. Not even kidding she beat me 90% of the time. I have no idea how, she must be magic. Our Friday afternoon was followed by a wonderful group dinner, and drinks with amazing friends.


On Saturday we attended St. Joe's annual holiday ball at the EMU convocation center where the Eagles play basketball - except transformed into a black tie event venue!




We had a wonderful night, as you might be able to see.

Finally, the perfect end cap to the weekend, another group meal - brunch. It was nice to end the weekend the way it began, with all of our friends and family together.

I've done my best to give you an overview of the past few weeks. They went by so quickly, and it was an exhausting, yet fun time. I can't tell you, though, how happy I am to be home, and getting back into the "normal" routine.

The final holidays of the year, and end of 2011 is sure to be passed before we know it. With two family Christmases, and a wedding on New Year's Eve, it's sure to be a great time!

Happy Friday!