"will you be my american boy?"--estelle

So I took the day off yesterday, basically because I had to get my bridal portraits done and it's so hard to get things done on the weekends.

I spent the first half of the morning being pampered - I went to get my nails, makeup and hair done. I was very happy with everything (except the nails really, I went to the place closest to my salon and they weren't that great, but oh well). My makeup turned out great and she only charges like $25 (which if you are getting your wedding makeup done, should know this is incredibly CHEAP, most people charge $50 and up...although this was just considered a "makeover" so we'll see what the actual cost is in december) Also, she uses mineral makeup and although I had a LOT on for the photos, I didn't feel like I did. I'm a believer, now if only I hadn't just bought a bunch of new makeup recently. (I'll try to get the pics off my mom's camera and send a teaser or two)

I met my mom at Laguna Gloria and got all dressed up. At first I was a little nervous, but I relaxed. I love our photog and Laguna Gloria is so beautiful. My mom took some unprofessional pics and I am SO excited to see the real ones, but have to wait about 2 weeks. Boo. The best part was recreating the "infamous" (ok, only to our family) pose which my grandma took on her wedding day. It was really special to me to be able to do that :). After that, my mom and I went to check out Mimi's for our bridal brunch - done and done, now we just have to choose food.

I went home, changed, took off my makeup and then went to vote. I realize that I am leaving the country before any sort of domestic or international policies with the new president get changed and go into effect and there are some things I feel strongly about but I feel good about my decision and I hope I'm leaving you guys in the hands of a capable person - good luck. And if you really don't want to complain about taxes, move overseas - where you don't pay them ;) and where gas is .40/gallon. I voted in LTISD which had no propositions to pass apparently and since my property is in Williamson County, I'm hoping nothing was passed which makes my property taxes increase tremendously. (Too bad those don't disappear when you move overseas) Even Chris voted at the US Consulate in Saudi! Very proud!

Anyway then I went to Chris' parents for dinner and then we went to Jamba Juice for dessert - yum! :) (It was Jamba Juice Wednesday after all!)

I was also informed today that I will have, not 1, not 2, but THREE H&Ms in my vicinity when I move. I can't even find one within the state of Texas, so I am so excited! :) It's the little things, really. (Also, the one in Saudi is for women only, hah!)

Chris started looking at tickets to come back for his bff's wedding in SF in May - apparently the tickets are SUPER expensive, like way too expensive to even consider at the moment (read: $2000K EACH), so for the time being we are not coming back to the States until later and the company pays for the ticket. Honestly - our honeymoon tickets didn't even cost the price of 1 ticket, that's absolutely ridiculous.

So our ceremony musician is NOT calling me back, and it's been like 3 days and emails being sent. It would be really nice if I could find out if she is still around so if not, I can frantically find someone else.

Anyway, Halloween is tomorrow - I sort of forgot, all I know is it's Shea's birthday. I don't plan on being anything or doing anything and I feel lame because not only is it Halloween, but a Friday. I guess the mall might be empty... ;)

Sunday is Lbo's birthday and on Saturday we're going to lunch and then to a winery - the weather will be perfect, I can't wait!

peace.