Big Week in Rescue Dog Land!

Hi All!

While the above photo was somewhat of a success, it didn't go without a little struggle.

The past few days with Jack have been full of fabulous and wonderful milestones! So very exciting. We adopted Jack about 6 months ago, and he has made so much progress. For some reason, the past week has really been good.

Jack has started taking treats from us. He is no longer a "secret eater." Also, Jack has started PLAYING! It is so fun to see him running around like a normal dog! I have caught him playing with toys a couple of times, and he even has started holding his tail like a normal shih tzu. These probably don't seem like huge milestones to most people, but for us they are huge. We couldn't be more proud of our pup and hope he continues to gain trust and happiness!

Dream Inventory

Recently at work, our staff of five was asked to fill out a sheet of paper with 50 goals/dreams for our personal and/or professional lives. I was stumped around number 8...not for lack of ambition, but because many of my hopes/dreams/goals just seem too simple to put down on paper. At any rate, I was able to dig deep and come up with 50 items for the list. Some of them are significant...others just plain silly. I'll share a few of my favorites.

1. Run a 1/2 marathon. (This one was a fail for 2010--we'll try again).
3. Pay off student loan early (HA.)
16. Pay for our kid(s) to go to cllege anywhere they want to go (Assuming we have kids).
18. Stay married for life
26. Write a children's book (I already have the story line all planned out).
32. Become a master gardener
40. Have home or garden featured in Southern Living Magazine

It's Been a While. Let's talk about Relevant Irrelevant Folks

http://www.usmagazine.com/moviestvmusic/news/mysterious-white-powder-sent-to-bristol-palin-at-dwts-20102011

According to the ever reliable "Us Magazine," someone mailed a package of mysterious white powder to Bristol Palin at the Dancing With the Stars set.

Well, hell. If the Palins aren't the biggest bunch of attention whores on the face of planet Earth, I'm just not sure who is. This is clearly something Mama Palin did to get Bristol even more press. They are obnoxious.

I'm just sayin'.

3 Life Lessons

1) Never buy a used Volvo from a Nissan dealership. Moreover, if the salesman is wearing a tacky University of Georgia football tie, steer clear.

2) Always have a rain plan.

3) True friends lift you up when you need it most. I was reminded of this last Friday when I received a sweet text message from a dear friend who knew I was going through a difficult time. To my friends, I say thank you... you all rock! :)

P.S. - And to the rude bi-otch who keeps commenting on my status updates on Facebook--get a life. You might have seen me on Facebook, but shawty you don't know me.

So I married Clinton Kelly

So I married Clinton Kelly.

This morning, I was getting dressed for work. I thought I had a pretty easy day coming ahead, so I dressed slightly more casual than normal. (P.S.-I love the flexibility of my job).

Anywho, the scene is the bedroom I share with A-Bunn. He walks in (after I was finished dressing, of course) and asks, "Are you wearing a SKORT?!" To which I replied, "Yes...and?"

"Jess," he replied,"Skorts are SO 1990."

Maybe Allen is right. But in my defense, I'm not wearing a "business in the front, party in the back" skort, circa 1990. This is a skort that is truly well-disguised as a skirt.

I never realized that Allen is a fashion expert.

Remember "Opposite Day"?

Well, today is evidently "Opposite Day!"

Pandora Radio kicked me out because I've maxed out on my free listening priveleges for the month. So, I ventured over to Yahoo! Radio and browsed through the stations. Not feeling much in the mood for country, pop, or any form of booty shakin, I opted for Adult Alternative.

Everything was going just fine, 'til "You Belong to Me" by Taylor Swift started playing.

Epic fail, Yahoo!Radio. Taylor Swift is neither adult nor alternative. Even if it was the version of the song with a "rock" beat.

Sheez.

John Mayer's conquests

Does anyone else listen to John Mayer's lyrics and think "AHA! I know exactly which celebrity lover this song is about!" Well, here are my guesses and reasoning:


Heartbreak Warfare

So OBVIOUSLY written about Jennifer Aniston. Every time I hear this song, clips from the movie "The Break Up" flash through my head.

Red wine and Ambien/you're talking sh** again

just screams "Jen Aniston." Why?! There are hints of "I'm really into you, but maybe you're not quite over someone else" in this song. If I were previously married to Brad Pitt and subsequently left by Brad Pitt for Angelina Jolie, I'm quite sure that my entire body would run off red wine and Ambien.

Half of My Heart

So OBVIOUSLY written about Jessica Simpson. DUH.

Half of my heart is a shotgun wedding to a bride with a paper ring/And half of my heart is the part of a man who's never really loved anything

I'm thinking if I were Jessica Simpson, I'd send him a text message telling him where to stick his sexual nepalm.

Dear Jack

Dearest Jack,

You know Mommy loves you. You probably know this because Mommy says "Mommy loves Jack" about 4500 times a day. Proof that Mommy loves you: Mommy has spent a whopping $250 in one month on you. Mommy passed up a beautiful Burberry watch to pay for your boarding, and then your latest trip to the vet. It is about high time for you to be well. And stay that way for at least 3 months.

Love
Mommy

P.S.-How cute is my dog?

Reading between the lines

A recent "conversation" forced me to focus not on what is said aloud, but rather what isn't said aloud -- what is implied.

As many of you know, because I'm sure the only people who actually read this stuff know me and are considered friends, that my mother and stepfather live in a rural area of Tennessee. They own a very successful grocery store and deli called "Lucky's Bargain Barn"(yes, really). My mother also cares for many animals: 4 horses, one dog, one cat and a pig...and a partride in a pear tree. And before you get any ideas in your mind that their surroundings look like an episode of "Hoarders," just go ahead and back up. They have a nice house and a sprawling piece of land. Plenty of room for 4 horses, a pig, a dog, a cat, and even the partridge in a pear tree.

So the conversation (that has taken place more than once, mind you, as this is a person who knows me and my family fairly well) went a little something like this:

Person who shall remain nameless: "How's THE pig?!"
Me: Thinking in the back of my mind, "like you care," but being very polite... "The pig is fine."
Person who shall remain nameless: Dying of laughter.... "Where does the pig live?!"
Me: Getting really annoyed, because I have clearly answered this question before, and now it's just becoming a little game.... "Outside in a pen. It shares a barn with the horses."
Person who shall remain nameless: Still dying of laughter for no apparent reason... "And what is the pig's name?!"
Me: Really just over it at this point... "Piggy Sue"
Person who shall remain nameless:...Still dying of obnoxious laughter.

Now, it may or may not be apparent to you at home (or work) what this person was trying to accomplish. But to me, it was crystal clear.

You can try to your best to make others feel that they are less than you...but when you do so, you're the one who ends up looking like a PIG.

Have a nice day.

XOXO,
JB

A quote

"I've learned a lot this year. I learned that things don't always turn our the way you planned, or the way you think they should. And I've learned that there are things that go wrong that don't always get fixed or get put back together the way they were before. I've learned that some broken things stay broken, and I've learned that you can get through bad times and keep looking for better ones, as long as you have people who love you." --Jennifer Weiner (Good in Bed)

Found this on a friend's blog today. Everything is crap right now, and it just spoke to me. Haven't posted in a while. Hate the negativity, but that's just the way it is today. Surely it will get better soon?!

JBunn = Not the brightest crayon in the box

How in the world did I manage to "follow" my own blog, and how can I undo it?


If anyone can help, it will be greatly appreciated.

Best,
JBunn

Another rambling about "the book"

Facebook again, ya'll. For real.

We all know it's hot outside. Unless you've been hiding in some sort of cave, you should know that it is summertime in the southeastern portion of the United States of America.

Having said that, let me tell you that it is NOT, and I repeat NOT necessary to take a photo of the digital thermometer in your vehicle and post it to Facebook.

120 degrees!? Holy crap. Drive your car around for a few minutes, fool. It's not really 120...your car has just been sitting in direct sunlight for a couple of hours.

Come on, people.

Bossy

Anyone who knows me well (really well) knows that I have an affinity for the rap music. Please don't ask why, because I'm not really sure. I like to listen to naughty music when I run and work out. Something about the degrading lyrics, gun shot sound effects and basslines just get me feeling all motivated.

Earlier today, I popped my iPod buds into my ears. Needing an afternoon pick-me-up, I turned on my running playlist, which contains a plethora of randomness. The following quote is from a young lady named Kelis, and her song is entitled "Bossy."

You don't have to love me. You don't have to like me. But you WILL respect me.

Thank you ma'am, for that bit of inspiration and badass-ness. I most certainly feel like saying that to a few particular people on occassion. Maybe one day...

That's all for now. And if you're feeling bossy, go ahead and jam out below.

Our new addition

Nope, no baby announcement. No pictures of positive pregnancy tests to flaunt on Facebook (umm, yuck. No one wants to see that.)

We adopted a dog! I found Jack, formerly "Bobby" (another yuck), on Petfinder.com. I have wanted a shih tzu for so long and have been reluctant to buy from a breeder because the thought of puppy mills is quite disturbing. (I know that there are many reputable breeders out there, but there are a lot of dogs who need homes. I don't look down on anyone who buys from a breeder.)

Bobby--I mean Jack--was rescued from a puppy mill, where his job was to impregnate. Over sexed and underpaid--what a way to live! Anyway, the "rescue" facility was as frightening as most pictures I've seen of puppy mills. Dozens of dog crates stacked on top of one another, many of the larger pins containing 2-4 dogs -- crawling on top of one another, their little behinds wet from the soiled newspaper lining the crates. I couldn't wait to get out of there.


Anyway, Jack is a 2-year-old little guy who previously did not receive attention, interaction or socialization with other animals, despite living in close quarters with dozens of other creatures. He is very timid and easily frightened.

I was so excited to pick Jack up and bring him home. The car ride couldn't have gone better. I put Jack in his carrier and he rode shotgun all the way home, with me talking to him in funny voices. All was going well--until we arrived. I called Allen from the driveway to ask him to come outside and meet Jack. Because of Jack's scaredy-cat demeanor, I opened the carrier thinking he would just step out and sniff around for a minute.

Boy, was I wrong. For the next 30 minutes, Allen and I ran all over the neighborhood trying to catch Jack from his prison break. I was a mess. I have never seen Allen run at all--but he did his best to keep track of Jack. Finally, we caught up with Jack about 4 blocks from our house. Allen and I were able to corner him on a church playground and carry him home. Oy vey! Not a great start for the Bunn family.

This morning, I woke up around 6 to find Jack already awake and pacing around. He doesn't play with toys yet and the only thing he really seems to enjoy are the little dental chew sticks I bought (thanks for the suggestion, Kristin!) I was so nervous to give Jack a bath because I didn't want him to have another traumatic experience so soon after the first, so I was shocked that he was very calm and allowed me to bath and dry him!

Now, Jack is trotting around the house. He even wagged his tail for a split second. Hopefully, he will adjust soon! If anyone has advice to share on socializing an adult shelter dog, please share! He is going to the vet on Thursday for his shots and to be neutered and microchipped. After that, we'll start obedience lessons and go to doggy play time at the Humane Society, where we hope Jack will learn to trust people and other animals.

Even though we have started out on the wrong foot, I hope Jack will find his way into our little family. He sure is a cute little guy!

Side note: I decided before I met Bobby that I would change his name to Jack. That decision was solidified after chasing Jack around the neighborhood in a pair of Jack Rogers sandals. For anyone who owns a pair, you know that the heel markings are quite uncomfortable. I don't suggest anyone take a jog in her Jack Rogers sandals.

On Getting Older, Part 2

Exactly one week ago, I turned 26. I am completely at peace with this number; however, I have noticed a few things in the past week that made me think, “Wow! I feel older!" Cases in point:

1) My dear husband asked what I would like for my birthday. Without a thought, I made a list of around-the-house projects that are in dire need of completion. Goodbye, birthday presents! (For the record, he did take me out for an amazing birthday dinner.)

2) When my mother asked what I would like for my birthday, I replied “just come visit me in Spartanburg.” So she and Brian did visit! (With many gifts in tow…thanks, Mom!) I think once you reach a certain age, gifts-in-kind generate as much joy (maybe more) as an actual “gift.”

3) Hearing recent college grads complain about having to be at work at 8:30 a.m. makes me cringe. Seriously, children… get used to it. Stop complaining. You have a job...welcome to the rest of your life. You'll know "you've made it" when you start arriving at work at 6:45 or 7:00 a.m. just to have quiet time for concentration.


4) I have discovered that the, like, 18-22 age group, like, in general just, like, annoys me.

5) Last, but not least: I do not, for the life of me, understand this Twilight thing. Where to begin?
a) It’s basically Harlequin romance novel material – look no further than the local Piggly Wiggly for the story line. It’s there, and you can likely purchase your "stories" for $3.99 or less.
b) The previews are hysterical, and I don't think they are intended to be. Teenage vampires transforming into animal beasts?
c) I want to throw things at my TV when people interview Kristin Stewart. Her "I despise my fame" attitude is freaking pathetic. She could never work another day in her life and still be swimming in $$$ from the success of these pathetic love stories. Be gracious, dear. It may not last forever.

One day, dear Kristin may, like, get old...like, 26 or something.

A pro athelete with class?

Say it ain't so!

You all may have heard in the past few days about the little umpire whose call ruined a perfect baseball game. You know, the whole "bottom of the ninth, two strikes" scenario... and then BAM! The batter knocks one into the infield, where the ball was quickly scooped up and tossed to first base. The only problem was the umpire's call was just a moment too soon. The batter made it to base right after the ball was caught by the first baseman, but the umpire called "SAFE!"

Had I been the pitcher for the Detriot Tigers, I would have responded with a big 'ol "Oh no, you didn't!" However, this fella (I've never heard of him to be perfectly honest) Armanda Galarraga handled things with complete composure. What a guy!

Of course, the ump who made the cruddy call feels real bad. There were pictures plastered all over the morning news of his little red, tear-stained face. I felt genuinely bad for the guy. It was obvious he felt pretty bad too.

Moral of the story: We all make mistakes. We're all human. Being an expert doesn't equate to being perfect.

AND, the nice pitcher even received a consolation prize for being such a good sport!

Fun Stuff

Okay, so I got to thinking about the last blog and it just felt like a little black cloud.

A couple of really great things happened today. First, I went to my Group Power class at 5:45 this morning for a wonderful workout after a weekend full of gluttony. The instructor is so hyper and upbeat. He makes everyone smile. Anyway, the class is a weight training class with a full-body workout set to different tracks. I could help but tap my feet when our shoulder track was none other than this classic.

This morning, I drove to work with the window down because the humidity had not yet set in. I was going about 60-ish down Union Street (just asking to get busted) when this song came on -- and I truly thought, "This scene would be so much more appropriate if I were driving a T-Top Camaro." Needless to say, when I arrived to work my hairstyle matched that of Sister Christian.

JBunn on Getting Older

Well, it's June and we all know what that means...it's my birthday MONTH! I have been thinking a lot about age lately, for many reasons, but probably because I am surrounded by so many milestones. Friends and family members are graduating from college, having babies, getting married, getting lower car insurance premiums, worrying about health insurance...and dying. (Not trying to be funny--this kind of stuff will really make a lady think).

Over the past couple of days, I have made a few observations. By now, you may have realized that lists of my observations are a cornerstone of my meanderings. Here goes.

1) Why, at the age of 25 3/4 years, is my skin worse than when I was 14?
2) When did it become necessary to simultaneously whiten, creme remove, pluck, shave and faux tan? Why can't I just be pretty?
3) Why do I feel the ever-presence of "frenemies"? Seriously, folks...frenemy behavior should have ended in high school. Do you ever get the feeling that someone only talks to you or is kind to you when they want something from you? That is a frenemy. I try to avoid these people, but it doesn't always work.
4) Just when you think you have become an adult and no longer have to answer to people, you get another set of people bossing you around?
5) When did news anchors become advocates? They are not supposed to be advocates; their job is to report the news. There is no such thing as "fair and balanced." THE END.


On the bright side, ny new job is much less stressful. The house is finally starting to look like a home. Hopefully, I will soon find a "balance" so that I can have cheerful and upbeat posts soon. :)

Let's have a chat about personal responsibility

This morning, while engaging in my typical work-day routine, I was tuned into a local news station. A little segment on tips to lower your monthly cell phone bill was covered... and it got me thinking about personal responsibility. Here's why--

The story covered a woman who went over her allotted plan minutes by 590 minutes in one month. Her bill was $380. And for good measure, "7 On Your Side" stepped in to teach her how to deal with the cell phone company, and ultimately lower her bill. LOWER HER BILL--for services (aka cell minutes) she USED.

I'll tell you how to deal with the cell phone company -- DON'T GO OVER YOUR MINUTES! PAY YOUR DANG BILL.

On the way to work, I heard a commercial about getting out of debt. Some of the comments made in the ad said things like, "It's not your fault" and "Where's the bailout for the little guy?!" Here's some news for you: Max out your credit cards on trips, iPods that sync with a pair of tennis shoes, concerts and a flat screen TV? That's great! Don't blame it on ANYONE OTHER THAN YOURSELF.

I am so sick of people taking to the internet to air their financial "dirty laundry." I know that times can get difficult. Lord knows we have scaled back in many ways over the past year. To be honest, I'm GLAD that we were forced to look at the way we were spending. Why?! Because we learned that we were eating dinner out 3 nights a week, simply because we could.

Y'all, we live in the South. We don't discuss money -- people with money don't discuss money, people without money shouldn't either. If you're having problems with budgeting, please do the following:

1) Step back and take a serious look at your finances. Really. Look at your online banking register. If you are like me and actually balance your checkbook, take a gander. What are you spending your money on? Meals out? Happy Hour? Trips? CDs/concerts/entertainment? Here's a tip: plan your meals for the week, go to the grocery store and stop going out. IT ADDS UP.
2) Learn how to budget. There are many resources online that can help you set a budget. Most people spend what they make. If you're not making much, you don't need to be spending much...period.
3) NEED VS. WANT. Entertainment and travel -- those are wants. Food from the grocery store -- NEED.

I am terribly sorry for such a rant when I haven't posted in weeks. This has truly been burning a whole in my nerves for a while!

Who needs a therapist when you have a blog?!

I don't have an exciting title, but things sure are exciting!

ARGH! I seriously forget that I have a blog sometimes. Things have really just reached an all-time-high on hectic-ness. I really hate to keep updating with things that are me-and-AL-centric...I really never intended for my blog to become one of...those sad "look at me, look at me" blogs. However, things have been really moving and shaking lately.

Between planning events, trying desperately to keep the ball rolling on the home renovation and preparing to switch jobs (OMG!) I feel like I can't keep track of what day of the week it is. Luckily, today was a classic Monday, so I was reminded right quick.

While it seems that every bit of exciting news in my life revolves around engagements and babies, I am happy to inform you that neither apply to me today. I have been offered a job with a wonderful organization doing big things in our community -- Partners for Active Living. Leaving United Way is certainly bittersweet. I LOVE my coworkers, the organization and the close connection to the community. I am so very excited to start a new chapter of my career and my life in Spartanburg. Even more, I am stoked to take on a new set of challenges around issues that I feel passionately about!

On the home front, the renovations are coming along... Probably not quite as quickly as I would like, but that's because I'm a complete control freak. I am ready to live in a home. I am exhausted from the "work site" feel of things. I do, however, have a huge appreciation for Allen and his talents. He has completely transformed this condemned mess of "house" into a real house. It is amazing. I am just SO ready to be finished and throw parties!

Today is my baby brother's birthday. He is 22, which makes me want to cry. He is a young man! It makes me an old woman ;)

Also, this weekend we'll attend my sister-in-law's college graduation at University of South Carolina. Again, I am in disbelief that she is graduating, as I remember meeting Addie as a high school cheerleader and debutante. Also makes me feel old!

In addition, (told you we're busy) Allen's brother, Adam, is graduating from high school this month! Makes me feel VERY old!

Life is grand!

Lady Gaga and A Bunn

Y'ALL! I forget that I have a blog.

My sweet husband is THE MOST precious man. I marvel at his funniness sometimes, and I seriously do not even mean this in a mean way AT ALL. He is just funny.

I'm going to take you straight to the scene. He had just traveled from the previously-mentioned-impromptu-fishing-trip-at-Edisto-Beach straight to Spartanburg and back into the truck to Tennessee. NICE.

Naturally, as we are traveling Interstate 85 through Atlanta (ARGGGHHHH), we get caught in parking-lot-style-standstill traffic. AWESOME. I had taken over the radio/cd player earlier in the trip (duh), so I was at the helm as DJ. No sooner than I start scanning through ATL's plethora of radio waves, THE LADY came over...LADY GAGA, and not JUST Lady Gaga, but Beyonce too. Oh yes, Telephone.

Here I am just singin' along, and A Bunn (in his blue tint offshore fishing sunglasses) looks me straight in the Michael Kors sunglass lenses and says, and I quote... "Jess, I'm so glad we're married."

I know...it sounds really sweet. What dear hubs was saying loud and clear, "Jess! I am SO glad we are MARRIED! and not just DATING! DAMN! Is this really how the women think?!?"

I have to say, I'm glad to be married to him, too. He's a cutie.



I guess I'm pretty lucky that I'm not trying to chase him down in the club, either :)

Secret Single Behavior

I have a friend in Spartanburg who often posts on Facebook "Secret Single Behavior" updates. I think because her husband often travels for work. I think it's really cute and fun, so I'm stealing it for today...because we all have these secret single rituals :)

For the past two nights, Mr. Bunn has been at Edisto Beach with the family. Last night, I JOGGED (yes, really!) 4 miles, had leftovers for dinner, gave myself a mani/pedi and enjoyed some trash tv.

Tonight, I met my dear friend and co-worker for Happy Hour "bubbles" and went to a fun wine tasting with girlfriends. It was so nice catching up with one of my favorite people and getting to know 2 new ladies--especially after getting my rear end handed to me by the Volvo repairman. :P

Anyway, I had every intention of coming home and accomplishing a lot of packing and tidying before our trip to TN tomorrow, but ended put on my sparkling new pair of Nine West peep toe wedges (they need to be broken in!), and am blasting my fun playlist of girl music.

Sample playlist:

Single Ladies (Put a Ring On It) -- Beyonce
Ain't Too Proud To Beg -- The Temptations
Telephone -- Lady Gaga ft. Beyonce (THIS SONG IS FIERCE.)
Bossy -- Kelis (don't judge)
Paper Planes -- MIA (again, don't judge)

Are Your 15 Minutes Up Yet?

This one's for you, Kate Gosselin. AND Tattooed Weirdo McGhee (adulterer who has just reuined Sandra Bullock's life). AND Speidi.

Obviously, I'm watching E!News right now. (And you would be too if your husband were out of town!)

I am officially boycotting Dancing With the Stars until the whiny, controlling, evil, selfish, mean-spirited, nasty Kate Gosselin is eliminated. I don't typically keep up with TV shows. I can't remember when they come on and I forget to set the DVR. I do enjoy DWTS, however, because it requires some real skill. At any rate, having missed DWTS last night I was not at all surprised today to see headlines on MSN, Yahoo and now E! News--Kate Gosselin acting like a diva. UGH. Disappear!

As a side note--I am in no way "Team Jon." Oh no, I think he is just as horrible as Kate. I just really, really think Kate is horrible.

On to Jesse James' latest and famous indiscretion. First, I think it is really sad that celebrities' affairs are considered "Breaking News." Second, the woman has a tattooed forehead and armpits. Real class. UGH. Disappear!

Speidi. Heidi Montag + Spencer Pratt = Just sad. I haven't kept up with The Hills in many years, but you know...Speidi are everywhere. UGH. Disappear!

Tick tock, tick tock. Of course, I wish nothing but the best for these fine folks. I really just wish they would disappear from my television and internet.

Dale Carnegie's words of wisdom

Greetings! I have been so very neglectful of my blog lately, mainly because work has been so hectic! It's the busiest time of the year in the workplace campaign world, and I am certainly struggling to find balance.

By nature, I am a complete worrier. I am almost always worrying about something.

I took a Dale Carnegie course a few months ago. (If you ever get the opportunity to take this course, I highly recommend taking advantage. If nothing else, it will help boost your confidence in ways you could never imagine!) Dale Carnegie was a famous author, speaker and consultant who helped coach people in many ways -- helping them to become better managers, better public speakers, better business people. The course is based off of two wildly popular books written by Dale Carnegie: How to Win Friends and Influence People and How to Stop Worrying and Start Living.

Lately, I've been thinking that I need to re-read How to Stop Worrying and Start Living. I found a nice quote from DC that seems to apply today:

It isn't what you have, or who you are, or where you are, or what you are doing that makes you happy or unhappy. It is what you think about.

Today, I am praying for good news. Things lately have been tougher than I would prefer, but I know that everything will be okay. Instead of worrying about what may or may not happen, today I will focus on all the positive things that are around me. I'll try to do the same thing tomorrow, too!

Paper gifts?

In two short weeks, Allen and I will celebrate our first wedding anniversary! My thoughts:

1) Where has a whole year gone?

2) Who came up with the list of traditional wedding gifts?

I'm a traditional girl. My philosophy on wedding planning was "traditional, traditional, traditional." I did not want to spend a ton of money on trendy crap and gimmicky decor. Naturally, as I started thinking about what to buy for A. Bunn to commemorate our one year anniversary, I spent some time researching traditional anniversary gifts.

So, what are some of the suggestions for traditional first anniversary gifts? Paper! Seriously, paper?!? Some ideas that are listed on the internet include: photographs, books, stock, a scrapbook, bourdoir photos (no, thank you! I am one of the most modest people you will ever meet. I don't change clothing in front of others), tickets of some sort, and an insurance policy. Ok, well...thanks for the suggestions. We already have a framed wedding invitation. Allen trades stock online. He has tons upon tons of books. We also have plenty of wedding photos, including framed portraits from my bridal session. When I told Allen that an insurance policy was a suggested gift idea, I got a suspicious look. Maybe he's been watching episodes of Snapped on Oxygen...

Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

Burning Questions, continued

On my drive home from a 9:30 p.m. meeting that was changed to a 10:00 p.m. meeting that never happened, I pondered more unimportant topics. Enjoy.

How did the band "Smash Mouth" EVER get a record deal?

Is it really necessary for every radio station in America to play Taylor Swift songs every minute of the day? She was on 4 out of 9 of my radio presets yesterday--all at the same time. She's cute, but she's kind of wearing out her welcome.

Why would anyone want to buy a 3D television? This has to be one of the dumbest ideas I have ever heard in my life. Seeing Al Roker's poor complexion in HD is really already more than I can handle.

Happy Thursday.

Burning Questions (of little importance)

When did Peace Frog stickers make a revival? 1995 called, it wants its Peace Frog back.


Does anyone else feel that their day will automatically be awesome when they hear a great song first thing in the morning? To escape the corniness of the local news anchors this morning, I switched over to the 90's Music channel on DirectTV. Maybe the $81 a month is proving to be "worth it." This morning I heard this little gem from the early 90's. I thought about wearing my cardigan backwards, but didn't think people would "get it."

Where are my FAVORITE black dress slacks? They have been missing now for over a month. I have called 2 dry cleaners, moved 2 closets, burrowed through boxes of off-season clothing, searched my car and called my brother to see if they could possibly be hanging in a closet at my mother's house. NO luck. These are the most perfect black dress slacks on Earth! Perfect length, perfect fit AND they are 1/2 of my black suit! GRRRRRR.

Did you know that today is the birthday of CHUCK NORRIS!?

DO YOU UNDERSTAND THE WORDS THAT ARE COMING OUT OF MY MOUTH?!?

I have had about a dozen experiences this week where I have wanted to say to people....

"Do you UNDERSTAND the words that are coming out of my mouth?"

Have we all forgotten how to communicate? Am I dealing with aliens? I'm just not sure.

Earlier in the week, I had an issue at work with editing our website. I had to deal with tech support types, you know the condescending computer nerds that freak out when they realize you don't understand their lingo and their dumb jargon-y abbreviations. News flash, people: I have a communications degree! Not a freaking degree in computer science. If I knew how to alleviate the problem on my own, I wouldn't put myself through the torture of dealing with an angry tech person! Let's back up and speak plain English. After dealing with four "support" people at three different companies, the problem is now out of my hands. THANK GOD.

Also this week, I received a message on Facebook from a person who shall remain nameless(thanks again, Facebook) and in the message this person said she would love to "ketchup" with me.

And then yesterday I had a conversation with a younger person who also shall remain nameless (only because I don't know who actually reads this stuff). I have noticed, quite often, that when I converse with this person, he/she has a completely blank expression on his or her face. When I ask a question, there is usually a four second delay before a response is ever spoken. Maybe I'm speaking Japanese? I have no idea.

"Oprah calls it multi-tasking"

I thought of this wonderful movie quote (Sweet Home Alabama, courtesy of Lurlynn) while in the shower this morning...Crest Whitestrips on my teeth, conditioner in my hair, exfoliating scrub on face, shave gel on leg and razor in hand. Will it always be like this?

As I get older, I fell that there is actually LESS time in the day. How does this happen? When I was in high school and college, I felt like I had all the time in the world; like things didn't happen quite quickly enough. Now, I'm lucky to remember to call friends or relatives--unless I'm in the car...multi-tasking.

My 2nd quarter resolution (let's be honest, it's too late for a New Year's Resolution) is to take more time for me. Take a few moments out to call and catch up with friends. Spend 5 quiet moments alone every day or so (WITHOUT the Blackberry). If I can't find the time, I'm sure Oprah has some cool gadget on her list of Favorite Things that will help me to better arrange my time.

Good Directions and Turnip Greens

Y'all know this song, right? By Billy Currington? NOT! It was written my fellow Georgia Southern alum Luke Bryan. That's another story, though.

While cleaning up the kitchen tonight, I was listening to the iPod on our handy iHome (thanks, Zack!) and "Good Directions and Turnip Greens" came on. The Luke Bryan version...which brought back a wonderful memory of mine and Allen's first date.

It was September 28, 2005. We had been introduced to one another on many occassions because we had a few mutual friends (and he pledged a fraternity, so I think he gave me a few sober rides home during those days). "The" Facebook was new and all the rage. We exchanged a few messages after becoming virtual friends. I asked him to a sorority Crush Party, where sisters were invited to bring more than one date. I, however, only had one :)

Allen met me at the "Nikel"...the establishment where the function was held. The theme was "Rock Stars on the Red Carpet." Allen showed up in his button-down Polo and khaki shorts. Too cute.

Later in the evening we moved on to another Statesboro establishment. We chatted, all alone in a big wooden booth. And then the song came on...."Good Directions and Turnip Greens." The LUKE BRYAN version, y'all. Billy Currington was NOT in the picture at this point. Allen asked me to dance with him, even though he hated to dance. It was one of the sweetest and most heroic things he has ever done. He suffered through every moment, but I thought it was just the most precious thing ever.

The pic above is from about a month or so after we started dating.

Exactly 3 1/2 years from our first date, on March 28, 2009, I married my BFF AL! This is my favorite picture from our wedding day






It is SO hard to believe that we have been together for almost 5 years...even harder to believe we have been married for almost 11 months now! Every day is an adventure. Full of ups and downs... But truly wonderful!

My best attempt to use things before they expire...

I looked in my refrigerator and realized that I had a lot of stuff that was about to become "over the hill." I get heartburn over allowing things to go bad and having to throw them out -- I really hate for stuff to go to waste. Can't you tell?

South Carolina "Affairs"

SC First Lady Jenny Sanford's book will be released soon! I hate to admit that I am bursting with excitement to read her story.

The Facebook. Can't live with it...can't live without it.

Ahh, the joys of Facebook. I remember the glorious day that Georgia Southern gained access to the wonderous 'book. What a great day! Facebook has made such an evolution. Does anyone remember when the status update had a drop-down menu? You could select "at work," "in class" and a few other choices. Life was so much more simple back in those days.

Status updates. Love them or hate them, it seems that everyone on Facebook enjoys updating their virtual friends on what's going on in their worlds. (Guilty! Especially if I have a glass of wine or 2!) It is the purpose of Facebook in the first place, but sometimes status updates do tend to get a little out of hand. There are a few types which generally make me want to hit the roof:


1) The whiny/complaining/pity party/"my life sucks" update. Save it for your therapist. And while you're there, go ahead and pick up an RX for LEXAPRO.

2) The "repost this if you're not ashamed" update. I love my mom, my husband, Jesus, the puppy that I don't yet have and lots of other things. I don't need to repost CRAP to prove anything.

3) The "TMI" update. As in, "too much information." Grooming habits, personal hygeine, bodily functions, your sex life...it's all TOO MUCH. Think before you type.


Enjoy the Facebook, friends. Please try to keep it classy.

J Bunn

WELCOME!

I have finally entered the blogosphere! At the urging of my darling husband and a few friends, I have broken down... Unfortunately, "I'm Just Sayin'" was already taken, so I chose "Fun with JBunn" instead. Seriously, how many J Bunns can there be? At least it's orginal, right?

I would imagine that most people reading this already know me (in some form or fashion)...if you do not, here is a glimpse into my crazy, wonderful, somewhat-disorganized-but-planned-down-to-every-moment life.

1) I am the eldest child in my family. I have one younger brother. I feel that being the oldest defines me in SO MANY WAYS. (Hence the "planned down to every minute" part of my life).

2) I am married to a fella who is the oldest of three. We are both complete control freaks. Allen and I learn every single day :)

3) When I was young, I had three huge aspirations:
#1--Become a figure skater, and dance/skate my way to fame to this song by Alahnna Myles.
#2--Become a University of Tennesse majorette. I twirled batons from age 7 until my senior year of high school. In case you don't know, UT majorettes are the best of the best. My Papaw (grandfather for any Yankees in the building) went to Tennessee. Nope, I didn't attend UT, but I DO bleed orange.
#3--Marry Jordan Knight of New Kids on the Block fame.

Needless to say, none of those things happened. A couple of really cool things did, though! In 2006, I received a shiny, new degree from Georgia Southern University. In 2007, I moved to Spartanburg, SC and landed an amazing job at United Way of the Piedmont. To be honest, I never intended to enter the "glitz and glam" (HA!) world of fundraising, or "resource development"; it found me. In March 2009, I married Allen.

As Joe Walsh said, "Life's been good to me so far..."

Maybe in the next blog I'll write about the time my father-in-law and I dialed Joe Walsh's cell and hung up on him ;)