In the Life of Audrey

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2007-10-31T13:45:00.000-04:00

Since all is changing - figured it is time to make the transition from an "all about me" blog to one that will encompass our new family. So go ahead, add us to your blog list and prepare to take the journey of married life with us as newlyweds.

http://boylesplace.blogspot.com/

See you there!

This day I marry my friend; the one I laugh with, dream with, live for, love.

2007-10-30T14:38:00.000-04:00

OH – what a whirlwind of a week! I can’t believe it is all over but it was the most perfect and amazing time of my life. Jeff and I both agreed, while sipping Majestic Sunsets on the beach of the DR, we wouldn’t change a thing.

After I broke away from work on Wednesday, we packed up 97% of our animals and belongings (the fish stayed behind) and headed to Ocala for some visiting with family before the big day. Lots of primping and preparation led to a fantastic, relaxing time at our BBQ rehearsal dinner and finally – the culminating event.

The wedding day was all I ever hoped for and if anything went wrong, I certainly did not know it. We tried to soak in every detail, enjoyed a quiet dinner alone and then partied our booties off with our favorite friends and family. The band was amazing, the cake was the best I have ever had and everything just looked beautiful. I can’t take too much credit, my mother did an outstanding job and handled most of the details. All of her planning made everything run so smoothly. I couldn’t be a happier bride!

I have posted lots of pictures from all the wedding festivities on http://www.peekboyles.shutterfly.com/ – if you can stand looking through hundreds of pics, go for it and feel free to add your own if you have some!

Official..In More Ways Than One

2007-10-09T10:36:00.000-04:00

It has been a big week in the Boyles/Peek household. Clearly with the wedding so close, one would expect lots of planning and finishing to be going on at this time. What I didn’t expect was a surprise trip to West Palm on Wednesday and Thursday of last week; oh the joys of procrastinating engineers. Our GIS department is a constant source of frustration and anxiety for me. I realize their lack of involvement on the marketing side is due to their project load on the billable side but that doesn’t justify ignoring all our attempts to successfully market their products and capabilities. Just when I think I have things under control, GIS strikes again. This time, the sole conference attendee informed me that while we would be paying for his trip down to West Palm for the So Fla GIS Expo – he would not be able to transport any materials down, nor would he be able to set up and attend during exhibit hall breaks because he was bringing his family down and was unsure what their plans would be.

At two o’clock on Wednesday, my boss suggested I attend to ensure that we would be well represented. I left at four for my whirlwind tour of South Florida, dragging Jeff and Addie along for the ride since he had both days off from work. We were able to squeeze in some visiting time with his parents and had a great dinner both nights. I performed my duties as Conference Queen and we made it back to Gainesville by midnight on Thursday.

Friday was the culmination of Jeff’s law enforcement training. His parents and I had made plans for them to come up for his Swearing In Ceremony with the Sheriff’s office prior to our little stint of a visit. They woke up early Friday morning and drove up to make the 10:00 ceremony. My mom also drove up to see the award for all of the hard work he has put into this dream over the past two years.

The Sheriff in Alachua County has been making waves for some time, being that she (that’s right, she) is the first female Sheriff the County has seen. She has made some major changes and done some necessary “house cleaning” within the organization. After hearing her views and dedication to the deputies during the ceremony, I truly cannot imagine a better place for Jeff. Her tenacity and fervor for her own was refreshing and nothing of the politically correct answers most elected officials lean toward these days. The past few weeks have been tough for law enforcement in our County and hard decisions have been made – yet she made it very clear that she stands behind every one of those decisions made by her employees. It was a proud moment for all of us as we watched Jeff take his oath. Jeff’s ambition for going into law enforcement grew from his father’s constant suggestion of what a great cop he would be. It was only fitting that his Dad be there to pin on Jeff’s badge at the end of the ceremony.

We visited with his parents for the rest of the weekend, the boys did their thing and I shopped with Jeff’s mom. It was back to work on Monday but today brought another official ceremony – the marriage license! We have a 3-day waiting period but other than that we should be good to go! I snapped some pictures in the courthouse despite Jeff’s protests. Horrible pictures but fun to remember that day! Enjoy.

Fall is in the Air

2007-09-10T14:33:00.000-04:00

A few things have occurred in the last week that need some updates before I get into my intended blogging content.

Bert/Birdman has died.

We thought he was doing much better but he took a turn for the worse on Friday morning and had passed when I went home for lunch. While Birdman will be missed, we had no intention of keeping him long-term and judging from my conversation with owner John, I am sure he is in a better place than back in Hilliard with his other 200 racing pigeon brothers and sisters.

We now return to your regularly programmed content.

Amid the scorching Florida heat, the transition from summer to fall has been minimal for me. As a professional, there is no back to school rush, no shopping sprees, I didn’t even take advantage of the tax free days. So really, there has been no real indication that a seasonal change is upon us. I missed the first Gator game (blasphemy, I know) which is usually a bench mark as the official start of the school year.

This weekend, Anne and Jerry came up for Anne to attend a bridal shower for me in Ocala. The shower was beautiful and I saw people that I haven’t seen in years. We received wonderful gifts that I am not allowed to use until after the wedding. Mom should have watched more closely as she got ready to leave for the game, I think a few items might have found their way into my car. After the shower, we hurried to Gainesville to carry on our usual game day tradition of tailgating. Jeff was able to get off work around three and his parents arrived in perfect time for us all to ride to the tailgate together. In the chaos of the shower, I hadn’t even realized it was my first game of the season but my anxiety kicked in during the car ride to the stadium. I don’t know what it is about game day, but something gets to me. I suddenly couldn’t wait any longer, I needed to be there, and much faster than traffic was allowing us to go. The parking situation was horrible and no one could move fast enough. Despite my frustration, which did not coerce the college kids to pack 80 cars into their front lawns any more quickly, we arrived at the tailgate with about an hour to spare before the game.

The rush of so many familiar memories flood back as I enter the world of Gator football, it is almost like coming home. The sound of the band, the chomp, the frazzled scalpers jogging through the crowds holding up two fingers, the little girls in cheerleading uniforms, the bellow of “ice cold coo-oke” from up and down the stadium steps – all bring me right back to the wonderful family memories of being a Gator. It has a lot more meaning now that I am also an official alumni and I laugh at how many times it comes up in life. Just a few weekends ago while visiting Universal Studios, I marveled at how the ET waiting area (inside) smells exactly like the pool at the O-Connell Center. These flashbacks are probably why it has been so easy for me to make Gainesville my home.

With my first game of the season under my belt (a win, regardless of how sloppy we looked in the second half. Where was our defense?!) – I have turned the page from summer to fall and am anxiously awaiting next week’s tailgate as we take on Tennessee in the Swamp. I could sooo be the announcer. My parents’ are heading to Richmond, VA to celebrate Bonnie Bugg’s 90th Birthday. However, being the measly peon of a PR person, no vacation time for me. I will be holding down the fort and the parking pass. If you are making the game, stop by the tailgate! North End Zone across the street from Delta Tau Delta.

Another exciting tid-bit for the weekend to come – lots of friends coming back in town but I will have to elaborate more on that next week so I don’t ruin a big surprise. J Fun times to come, can’t wait for the weekend. Someone should remind me it is only Monday.

Great surprise!

2007-09-06T13:20:00.000-04:00

I’m totally obsessed with my favorite photographer in the world right now. Caroline Johnson is by far, the absolutely best thing that has happened during the whole planning of this wedding. For anyone who has been around me in the last week, the stress of planning has definitely been getting to me and Caroline sensed that immediately. She has talked with my mom and called me continuously just to see how things are going. This morning, on my way to work, she called at the perfect moment to calm me down as I was about to go on a whirlwind of a hissy-fit (yes, my mom is from Georgia).

I just got back to the office from lunch to find a fabulous surprise. Caroline and Mary of Caroline Johnson Photography had beautiful flowers sent to my office to cheer me up and reassure me that, “they have my back.” You just can’t put a price on the friendship and confidence that has come out of this “business relationship.” I will be singing her praises from the rooftop for years to come.

Thanks Caroline and Mary – you guys are simply the best, I don’t know how I would be getting through this without your constant support and advice.

AU JAX 2007 5163

2007-09-04T10:09:00.000-04:00

To many, this might be a jumble of useless letters and numbers. However, I learned a new meaning to this compilation last night. This is the band number of the pigeon that flew into the garage squawking and flapping at my head, then refusing to leave. The bird first made contact with us in the afternoon, but I shooed him out into the bushes. I could tell something was wrong but I gave Kylee the “survival of the fittest talk” and assured her nature would take its course. Jeff came home from work and we left to take Kylee back to her mom’s house. I exited through the garage, only to be startled by the sound of clumsy, flapping wings. He was back.

Jeff picked him up and we discovered the band on his leg. The bird (Bert as we later came to call him) was severely dehydrated and fell every few steps. He had stopped attempting to fly and just sat there, relieved to be rescued. We put him back in the bush and closed the garage door before taking Kylee home. On our way back from dropping Kylee off, I started thinking more and more about the poor bird and how scared he must have been. Now, I would never be one to keep a bird as a pet, I actually do not like birds at all – but the thought of someone losing their own pet got the best of me. I called my mom to see what her suggestion would be in caring for the sick pigeon.

My mom’s first suggestion is that it might be a homing pigeon. The homing pigeon is a variety of domesticated Rock Pigeon (Columba livia) that has been selectively bred to be able to find its way home over extremely long distances (Wikipedia.com). After further research, we discovered this pigeon is a part of the American Racing Pigeon Union and is registered out of the Greater Jacksonville Area Racing Pigeon Association (RPA). Who knew such a sport existed?! Using the band reader on the Web site, I was able to locate a phone number for the chapter secretary and got him on the phone late last night. He knew who the bird belonged to and was able to tell me Bert is 7 months old and had been flying for a week from Hilliard, Fla – north of Jacksonville, nearly to Georgia. This is the point of the season where owners let the younger birds go for test flights to check out their homing instincts. Bert’s instincts = not so good.

I have to give huge credit to Jeff for putting up with me through this entire ordeal and his commentary was priceless. When we got back home, I had decided if Bert was still in the bushes, I was going to get some bird food and try to nurse him back to health. Of course, as soon as we pulled in, I could see the trembling thing from the car so we headed to Publix. While on the phone with my mother getting directions on what to buy, Jeff asked, “Please ask your dad if he has ever had to miss the Florida State vs. Clemson game to go buy bird seed for a racing pigeon?”

After over an hour of preparing our pigeon rehab facility, we had bird seed, water with two capfuls of Gatorade, unpopped pop corn (Web site said they like it), and a towel to make things comfy. I talked with Stephen, the JAX RPA Secretary, who told me from the description I gave him of Bert’s behavior that things weren’t looking good. As of this morning, Bert made it through the night but had not moved and it didn’t look like he had eaten or drank a thing. I called our local vet, Butler Plaza Animal Hospital, and am awaiting a phone call to hear their advice. John (Bert’s owner) is supposed to call this morning, as well.

Pretty much anyone who has known our family for any amount of time, knows this is just par for the course. Jeff made the comment that he didn’t realize what he had gotten himself into – he knew I was an animal person but he figured we would take in stray dogs or cats, not pigeons. This comment brought the revelation that I have reached that point when women realize they are becoming their mothers. So, thanks Mom, for my innate compassion for animals and strange ability to find them anywhere.

Miles to go before I sleep

2007-08-22T14:04:00.000-04:00

That’s been the story of my life over the past week. The Florida League of Cities conference kicked off last Wednesday in Orlando and has occupied the past few weeks in preparation for our Client Appreciation Dinner. The event for 150 of our city clients was a success and a good time was had by all. This is the fun part of my job – I get to the satisfaction in our clients of a job well done and get to reap the benefits of real relationships and friendships. This was my second FLOC conference and there were many familiar faces and people I had come in contact with over the past year. It is a great feeling to come full circle instead of always being the new girl.

Jeff and Kylee came down to visit Orlando over the weekend while I worked. Saturday afternoon was open so we shot over to Universal Studios to enjoy our season passes. Kylee grows up more and more each time I see her. I swear, she will be a teenager tomorrow. Her front teeth are going to be gone just in time for the wedding. We lost one a few weeks ago and the other is dangling (which she loves to do to impress people). She was our tour guide and made the plans for all our rides. Her ultimate goal was Jaws although once on the ride, she wasn’t so sure of her grand idea. We battled aliens on Men in Black and had pictures taken with dozens of characters. Her laughter during Shrek bellowed above everything else as the hydraulic chairs bounced imitating the gallop of a horse. She grabbed at the floating heads as viewed through the Ogre-Vision glasses. Her bravery has blossomed as she is nearly seven. Last year, she would have never approached any character and this year she was running to have her picture taken with them.

My latest plans have included lots of wedding preparation as we hit the 8-week mark. There are so many details to take care of and they all seem so trivial at this point. I can’t wait to be Jeff’s wife and I just wish it would get here already (and that all those little things would be taken care of). Mom and I have pulled 1 am work nights twice this week to get invitations addressed. Lots of printing left to do, ceremony music, programs, to have a seating chart or not, if yes – place cards or decorated board? When to dance? Where to have dance floor? Wedding day timeline. Will Sharpie bleed through guest book? Good gift for 4 year old ring bearer? As I sit and work, a constant flood of questions enter my mind. What did I possibly do before I had a wedding to plan?

1 down, 3 to go...

2007-08-06T10:17:00.001-04:00

We made it through wedding number one – fabulously, I would say. Early Saturday morning, Jeff and I packed up and headed to Vero Beach for the wedding of Lisa DeCrescenzo and Mark Moore. The lovebirds have been together for seven years and recently added a new addition to the family – baby Mark Andrew. We had a crew of girls from college and a lot of their friends from high school. The ceremony was beautiful and there was not a dry eye in the house for the speeches at the reception or when Lisa kicked off her shoes to dance on her Daddy’s feet. The Moorings set the scene for the evening’s reception with a room overlooking the water.
The view was breathtaking but even more so was the sight of the happy couple. Katherine (Lisa’s twin) prepared an amazing slide show with pictures from over the years and the Deltas serenaded Lisa with a one of a kind rendition of "Right Now" (sorority recruitment song). We danced the night away to a band from the Abacos in true DeCre fashion and saw the pair off from the dock where they left in a boat with a Just Married sign hanging from the t-top.

Shop Til You Drop

2007-07-30T16:17:00.000-04:00

Great weekend shopping with Mom - we hung out Friday night in Ocala and I even braved the "Hodeo" with my fav, Molly. Anyone from the booming metropolis of Ocala knows what I'm talking about. My mom and I headed to Orlando on Saturday afternoon for some shopping. We spent the night at the Florida Hotel and proceeded with a day at Mall of Millenia on Sunday. We finally found a dress for her to wear to the wedding. The weekend wrapped up with a gift from Discovery Channel. They do this every year for my birthday and this time was no different. The start of Shark Week was great, featuring the sinking of the USS Indianapolis. Loved it.

Now, if I had just remembered my ipod so I could have logged some miles and kicked Brody's butt -- that didn't happen so I'm going to have to make some up this week. Here goes nothing.

Operation Wedding Dress

2007-07-24T17:36:00.000-04:00

The new style of the blog can be attributed to the fact that the nikeplus challenge feature would not fit in the previous template. Please see the challenge info located on the right to see if I am kicking butt or seriously slacking. I have challenged several co-workers in a two-month walkoff to see who can go the distance. With the wedding just around the corner, hopefully the competition will be the motivation to keep me going. These are some fierce ones - so I definitely have my work cut out for me. Encouraging words appreciated.

Bachelorette Bash

2007-07-24T17:23:00.001-04:00

It was a whirlwind weekend but in the best way possible. Audrey’s Final Fling finally arrived and in full Cam fashion, the weekend was simply amazing. The effort that went into the bachelorette party definitely showed in everything. It was more than I had ever imagined.
We started out with a night of girltalk and catching up with old friends. We had people flying in from D.C. and driving 8 hours from Destin – such great friends to do that for the weekend! Cam planned a little game show involving questions from Jeff which made for some serious entertainment, and of course the performance of Morgan as Jeff. These are memories I will have forever (well…some of them).
A monsoon/hurricane popped up as we ventured to the pool on Saturday but we waited it out and were still able to relax and lounge around a beautiful pool on the water in Tampa. After a quick nap, we all got ready for a night on the town including dinner at Sangrias and drinks at a local bar.

Longing for REM

2007-07-20T11:24:00.000-04:00

It’s been one of those weeks – starting with spilling coffee all over my boss’s desk (it couldn’t have been a clean desk at the time either, had to have stacks of paper lined neatly in organized columns). Now finishing up with a taste of step-parenthood that I would rather not be experiencing. Any one with children will read this and smile to themselves that another ignorant childless individual has seen the light and realizes the challenges parenthood raises.

I know my own mother is chuckling as she reads this and even as I cry to her on the phone explaining how frustrated I am that kids just don’t listen. Why does it take 45 minutes to finish a bowl of cereal? Why did it take over 30 minutes to get her to wash her body in the bath tub? Why did I have to cut her bath short at 30 minutes and make her get out even though she hadn’t washed her hair? What could she possibly be doing during those 30 minutes that didn’t give her time to wash her hair and body? Why have I been at least 30 minutes late to work every day this week?

This morning, we got up and I asked her to please put her dirty clothes in the basket that I placed directly on the floor in front of her. This chore did not just include the pjs she had taken off only minutes ago and thrown on the floor, but the entire wardrobe that now littered her bedroom and bathroom from the previous few days. When I returned from getting myself ready and blow drying my hair, why had not one item of clothing found its’ way into the basket? I just don’t understand and it frustrates me.

I have babysat my entire life and am fully aware of the fact that everything takes longer with kids – but at 6 years old, I feel that doing these mundane tasks in a timely manner is not too much to ask. We have tried everything from playing games to hurry her, putting a timer in front of her, threatening punishment and now following through - which is absolutely draining. I can’t stand punishing her but I know that’s exactly what would have happened when I was younger. It’s just not fun and they know exactly how to work us to try and prevent it. The lip quiver, the glassy eyes, the hanging head, they are all primary tactics in lessening the sentence. However, as my frustration has built in the last four days – not one of these tactics was going to work this morning. Although the lack of television privileges may not seem severe to many parents, this is painful to Kylee. I have never seen a child who becomes so engrossed in the television in all my life. Which brings about another topic: television is the devil. I hated my parents for not allowing us to have tvs in our room as children but now I see why. It transforms the most perfect of children into over-stimulated, selective-hearing, anti-social, zombies.

Let’s add to my aggravation total sleep depravation. I have been in wedding planning mode for the past few nights and haven’t slept at all. Last night, I finally got to bed at a decent hour, only to be awakend by a phone call from Jeff telling me about an accident he had just worked. His intentions were sweet – the accident made him start thinking and he wanted to make sure I know how much he loves me, but nonetheless, my sleep pattern was destroyed. When he got home from work at 4:00 am – he wanted to continue the conversation about the accident. Another possible 3 hours of REM sleep out the window.

Now, I sit at work attempting to tie up loose ends before heading out to Tampa for what is sure to be a fabulous bachelorette weekend with my favorite girls - if I don’t fall asleep on them all first.

Island Time

2007-07-16T15:28:00.000-04:00

I long for the cleansing weekends when I can sit on the porch at the lake and watch the afternoon storms roll in, lay on the couch and fall asleep without having to worry about anything. Kylee and I enjoyed one of those weekends with the Johnson family – such a fun group!

And adventure it was…we started out on Friday night with a sunset boat ride and cooking dinner with my parents. Riley (3) and Kylee hit it off and the adults enjoyed a night of catching up. My parents left the next morning for a destination wedding and we did absolutely nothing – it was wonderful. Max, another Johnson family member, came along to keep Addie company. Max is a huge Rhodesian ridgeback with a bark the size of his massive body, but a bite equivalent to that of a Chihuahua. Addie had poor Max spinning in circles trying to chase her while she effortlessly bounded into the safety of the water. This was only safe because he refused to set foot in there. The afternoon thunderstorm came early on Saturday so the girls headed to Gator Joes for lunch while Bill took a relaxing nap back at the house. The Frisbee plates were a hit and served as great umbrellas on our way back to the house.

So as not to incriminate myself in case the gate has 100% malfunctioned, we had quite a time trying to get back into the subdivision in the rain. The lightening must have done a number on the keypad because it wouldn’t work. Definitely a sight to be seen, but luckily I believe we made it in undetected.

The girls had a blast building forts, playing with glow sticks, performing Yoga, Booty, Ballet (sorry, mom - we opened the workout video), swimming, cheerleading, collecting mussels and chasing the dogs. No wonder they were tired! Sunday was beautiful and we all played in the water for hours. Max finally got up the courage to join us and the goggies (Riley’s words) swam with us the entire time. The afternoon shower came and we settled in for a movie and naptime before heading back to Gainesville. It couldn’t have been more a delightful weekend (unless Jeff had been there). Thanks to Bill for the amazing food and to Caroline for her companionship -she even helped in the kitchen, living up to part of her wedding promise to Bill.

It always amazes me that only a few minutes outside of the city, the lifestyle completely transforms to island time. The hours pass slowly with toes in the sand. A cleansing for both the body and soul - those times should leave you feeling refreshed. However, I can’t help but wish I was still listening to the lapping of the waves. I suppose the picture on my computer desk top will have to suffice until our next lake adventure.

2007-07-09T16:17:00.000-04:00

Our relaxing weekend at the lake turned more into a house hunting weekend after one of Jeff’s colleagues offered what seemed to be a great deal on a house. We left the lake to go look at the house and ended up driving around for most of Saturday afternoon. The prospect was in a great neighborhood but far from town. It would certainly have been a labor of love and not exactly the challenge Jeff and I are up for. Oh well, our quest to be debt free continues and the house hunting is put on hold until after the wedding. At least that decision will put a halt to my crazy internet scouring.

Kylee is with us until July 20 and we are really experiencing full-time parenthood. We had a great dinner Saturday night – in which Kylee made us turn off all the lights and eat by candlelight. Sunday, we rounded up Bryce and Lex to head toward the Itchnetucknee River. We brought an array of colorful tubes and relaxed for the 2 hour float. We were quite the eclectic tubers with a dragon, crab, 2 person raft with cooler in center and two semi-normal pocketed lounge rafts. Kylee attempted to climb every overhanging tree but only really made it out on one. Lex rammed a tree limb and spent the two hours trying to keep his raft from sinking. While Bryce, was lucky he made it down the river because he fell asleep and kept getting hung up in weeds on the shoreline.

Another week at work, leading up to an exciting weekend at Lake Weir. Kylee and I will be hosting the fabulous Caroline Johnson http://www.lifewithcaroline.com and her family. It’s the daily grind until then. Kylee is attending camp at O2B Kids – so she is sure to have lots of adventure stories to share.

I need a hobby

2007-07-06T11:07:00.000-04:00

Jeff had to work last night and we had left all animals and children at the lake with my parents for the night. Since I had to work today, I didn't see the point in driving back to the lake only to turn around a few hours later to go back to work. So, I ran some errands last night after work and then settled in for an evening at home, alone. It has never occurred to me that I am never alone - until I actually was.

The apartment was so quiet without the sounds of Addie's squeaky toy and Smokey's moaning meow for food. It was really quite creepy. I made a sandwich and watched some quality TV (ok really it was The Simple Life). After about an hour, I couldn't stand it. As I laid on the bed, I realized how desperate the fan was for a good dusting. So I dusted all the fans. Then I remembered we had a new vacuum, so I vacuumed the whole apartment.

This vacuuming also revealed new insights to me. Like the fact that I can reach every inch of carpet without unplugging the vacuum if I plug it in at the kitchen counter top. That should tell you how tiny our place is - but I never even knew it until I saw how short the vacuum cord is.

Just some insights into my crazy mind while I am at home trying to keep busy by myself. I need a hobby.

I Love America

2007-07-05T09:14:00.000-04:00

With the Peek boys in full pyro-mode on Lake Weir last night, they could not be shown up by the efforts of nearby neighbors to dominate the show of dazzling explosives. One by one, they paraded down the dock with the mother load. Uncle Tommy, followed by my dad, then Bryce, then Lex and finally our cousin, Austin, lugged the last box from the closet. These had been stored, waiting for the perfect time to be showcased.

A few docks down, a family friend had been paid rent in fireworks for allowing one of the street vendors to set up shop on his road-side property. This gave the Peek pyros a run for their money and a reason to finally bring out the backup.

We all sat on the dock and beach - proclaiming ooooohhs and ahhhhhhhs after our favorite colors and designs. Cheers rang out after each box's final blow. The 4th of July has always been a significant day to Jeff and me - we have spent about the last 10 years together on the 4th, many just as friends. Jeff had to work this year so it made the experience very different, but Kylee made it special none-the-less.

It is easy to overlook exactly why we exhibit these grand shows each July. A day off work and an excuse to get together with friends - but to so many families it is much, much more. Sitting in a chair on the dock with Kylee in my lap, watching each burst - she wholeheartedly yelled out, "I love America! I love this city!"

How sweet that a child can exclaim with so much pride - she loves her country. It really got me thinking, how many of us could learn from that. How many of us should be shouting from the rooftops for the men and women who have given up months and years of their lives overseas to protect those of us back at home. All of this, for us, so that we have the freedom to sit at our homes, with the people we love and care about. I think Kylee had the right idea.

I love America.

weekend adventures

2007-07-02T14:22:00.000-04:00

After a few days of serious cleaning, work and entertaining Jeff’s parents, I was ready to welcome a weekend to myself. Jeff was on duty from 7 -7 Friday, Saturday and Sunday so I was on my own.

On Sunday morning, I woke up and called my parents to see how their weekend at the lake was going. They had been up since 5 am raking the beach and as my mom says, “Just piddling around the house.” He was itching to go flying so they headed to the airport to get the plane ready. They flew to Gainesville, where Bryce and I met them at the airport (after several laps around the curbside luggage check and directions from the nice security man to the private aircraft hanger).

We boarded the plane and prepared for take-off. My mom and I sat in the back to visit while the boys took their roles as Captains. We decided on St. Augustine as our lunchtime destination. The flight was short, only 34-40 minutes, and beautiful. I had never flown into St. Augustine although we are very familiar with the area having vacationed there nearly every summer for as long as I can remember. It looks so different from the air though.

When we landed, we took the airport courtesy car to downtown St. Augustine and had lunch at the Columbia, an old-world Spanish style building with wonderful Cuban food. The salad was quite possibly the best I have ever had. We browsed the art shops and visited the fudge/ice cream shop before heading back to the airport. As we headed toward the car, we quickly realized the weather was turning ugly – and fast. We hurried back to try and beat out the storms but no such luck. In the planning room, dad tried to map out the best way home but we were stuck.

Dad, being the resourceful man he is, immediately called the car rental company to see what they had available, should the storm not pass quickly. Only one car was left at the airport so he took it. As we waited, the sky darkened, the lightning popped and we got word that it had struck somewhere on I-95 igniting a forest fire nearby. Perfect. The rental car idea was looking better and better. Decision made. Dad went to get the car and we gathered our things out of the plane.

When we made it to the front door of the airport, Dad pulled around in a high-fashion 15-passenger van (think church youth group fieldtrips). We were all cracking up – couldn’t stop laughing for at least 20 minutes. Thankfully my mom had a camera. I will post the priceless pics as soon as I can get them. It was just like the old days of family vacations. Bryce and I leapt from empty row to empty row, trying to stay away from each other. Screams of He’s looking at me! and Tell her to stop! filled the air and I’m sure made my parents long for the days of our youth. I think we all surprised ourselves with how much we fun we had.

The day ended with the highlight of my week: a date with Jeff. We ate at Bonefish and went to see Knocked Up – which is absolutely hilarious if you haven’t seen it and definitely not a chick-flick as he had feared. It was a great ending to a somewhat stressful week. Hopefully, the next one will pass quickly with the holiday…

Family

2007-06-28T16:29:00.000-04:00

Family is such an interesting concept. On one hand, they drive you crazy, make you mad and can push your buttons like no one else in the world – but at the exact same time, they understand you better than anyone, know exactly what you feel before you say a word and are a source of strength and inspiration in the most difficult times.

Being the only girl, Bryce and Lex have always shared a sort of brotherly love that I didn’t get to be a part of. Don’t get me wrong, I didn’t mind it when I was younger. This simply meant I got to bring a friend along on our trips. Even now, the boys are the best of friends – sharing everything from clothes, cars, friends, food and most recently the UF campus. They depend on one another for everything.

This week, I finally have proved my worth to at least one of them – but not under circumstances I would wish on anyone. Most people know the last six months have been rough on our family. We have had one accident after the next, my dad is stretched beyond recognition and we have had some major life changing events to accomplish. Not all has been bad, but it has definitely been a period of change and transition. This is true in all aspects of our lives. Bryce has been dating a girl for nearly four years that we have all come to adore. She has moved to Orlando for school and the distance, uncertainty and probably just plain growing up have influenced her to need a “break.”

Now, the Peek boys are players – and they are proud of this. They don’t need girls, they just happen to be lucky enough that girls like to stick around. This would be their own description, of course. But something happens after four years of sticking around, she grew on him. I don’t think he even realized how much he had grown to depend on, care and love her. Her decision to break things off came as such a shock to him, even though he knew things had been different for quite some time. It occurred to me that this is the first broken heart. While I am sure they have done the breaking several times over the past few years, this is the first time for one of them to be on the receiving end. It plain sucks. There is no other way to describe it.

I have thought back to the times that I felt my heart had been ripped from my chest – to the nights I spent crying in my mom’s arms while she tried to convince me I would survive. I go back to riding in the car with my friends, screaming man-bashing lyrics at the top of my lungs, because, well, that would surely make the pain go away. It takes me back to the moments when you realize that the people or person you counted on most in your world lets you down – only because they are human. It is such a humbling experience, but a necessary one. The advice seems to be the same every time:

They are just so young.
There are a million other people out there.
If it’s meant to be, it will happen.
Don’t call.

None of these words help to ease the pain; none can make a heart stop loving and caring. No amount of well intended advice will ever be a quick-fix. It is times like these that we turn to those people who drive us crazy, who push our buttons, but who also would drop anything to be by our side when we need them. It is times like these that the 3 am phone calls, the shoulder to cry on, the “just because” dinners and pick me up presents make you realize why those crazy people you call family aren’t so bad, after all.

2007-06-26T16:34:00.000-04:00

Whew, am I worn out. Is it really only Tuesday? Actually, a Monday for me considering I took off yesterday for a day at Wet 'n' Wild in Orlando with Kylee. Jeff had to work and we were meeting his parents that night to do the "swap." They are going to keep her for a few days and we have made Orlando our meeting ground.

I spent the entire weekend in Orlando, celebrating with some college girlfriends. We had a bridal shower, bachelorette and "See the Baby" party - all in one. It was a great time, but I am clearly revealing my elderly tendencies at the ripe ole age of 22. I'm exhausted! I helped Abby and her mom put on the shower at their home in Lake Mary. I put my domestic capabilities to the test and conquered a brie-and-veggie stratta (see southernliving.com recipe of the day) and cucumber sandwiches, quite impressive I might add. After several hours of chatting and catching up, we headed to City Walk and spent the evening at the NBA restaurant and Margaritaville. We danced the night away, right 'til last call. Its been a while since I have heard that announcement (insert fist pump here, I made it to 2 am).

The difference I have noticed in being out of college is that my internal alarm clock is set to a significantly earlier wakeup call and knows no "snooze" button. So, instead of having the hangover wear off while I am in a self-induced coma, I am fully awake and aware of the pain I am experiencing. Bad plan for future reference.

Girl's Night Out

2007-06-08T09:25:00.000-04:00

With some major wedding tasks to tackle, I made plans with my mom to have a date last night to go over our to-do list and make some decisions. The guest list has proven to be a major feat and we are still trying to cut back. The generations of Ocala Peeks have made this list grow into a monster and it just isn’t feasible. So – we are cutting back to mainly family and a few people who have been a major part of our relationship.

It is past time to order invitations so we have to finalize the list in order to purchase the right number of invitations. After several grueling hours of the following conversation:

Who’s this?

Where do you know them from?

Well, we were invited to their children’s’ wedding.

You can’t invite ___ without inviting ___. (Insert ANY Ocala family here)

I think we finally made peace with the idea that we simply cannot include everyone. List in hand, we headed to several different stationary stores and mom brought books from a store in Ocala. We paid a visit to Solutions Bridal (best bridal store ever for those currently planning themselves) and looked at dresses for flower girls, my new junior bridesmaid (cute and funny story to follow about this new position) and a few mother-of-the-bride dresses. A friend from Ocala, Abby Williamson, is also getting married in the coming year and she was there picking out her own dress. It was exciting to see them celebrate her dress purchase – absolutely beautiful!

After our planning duties, we headed to Bonefish for some dinner and drinks. Lex’s recent graduation and current move have been hard on my mom. He is at the age where he can’t wait to get out of the house and really doesn’t want much to do with my parents. Every kid goes through it and we started thinking back to when I went through the same thing. I remember moving up to Gainesville for Summer B and moving into the dorm the first day it was open (which happened to be nearly a week before summer classes started and before any of my friends were going to be in town). Why? Just because I wanted to be on my own. I think psychologically you prepare yourself for the loss because you know you are going to miss them. We would fight non-stop when I was at home over silly things because I was trying to convince myself I was ready to get out of there. I am sure Lex is going through the same thing right now.

It is funny how things change. The first year of college, I am sure I didn’t call home as much as my mom would have liked but our relationship has continued to grow closer despite living in different cities. She is my best friend and we joked last night about how often I call. When her phone rings, she thinks to herself, “Audrey, nothing has changed since 45 minutes ago when I last talked to you.” I didn’t realize how dependent I had grown on those phone calls until the family went on Lex’s graduation cruise last week. I must have picked up the phone 100 times to call my mom on my drive to and from lunch, on the way to the office, when I had a question at the grocery store, when I spilled red wine on my pillow, when I got back in the car. I seem to be somewhat obsessive in nearly everything I do and apparently my frequency in phone calls in no exception.

Thinking back over the changes that have occurred over the past five years (see, life changing events make me very philosophical), a significant transition has taken place in my relationship with my mom- she has become my best friend. It has taken a long time to get here and the road was full of rocky and treacherous terrain. There is a fine line during high school years of being a parent and a friend – but she tread those waters like a pro. Although at the time, it might have seemed like both of my parents were intentionally trying to ruining my life – I look at where I am today versus many people my age and I know my independence has come from them.

So – thanks Mom and Dad for the hard knock lessons, for saying “No” even when you knew I would hate you for a little while, for not letting me take the easy way even when it hurt to watch me struggle, for teaching me that anything is possible if I put my mind to it. Although at times it may seem as if you have created a monster - my tenacity, ambitiousness and sometimes obsessive drive has come from all I have learned from both of you.

Full House

2007-06-06T09:59:00.000-04:00

The last Peek is here and Gainesville isn’t even going to know what hit. I remember an old friend of my grandparents’ once stating “there are enough Peeks that you can’t swing a dead cat without hitting one of ‘em.” I’ve never been sure how I feel about that saying, quite gruesome. Anyhow, this is now true in Gainesville, as well – I think we are up to six at the moment.

Jeff and I helped Lex settle into his new apartment, just about 2 miles down the road from our own. Mom made the trip up yesterday to buy the necessities and make it feel like “home.” He is living with a few random roommates for the summer in hopes of finding some guys that he could live with in the Fall. The roommates seem okay – a little older and into some hobbies that we don’t typically condone, but it’s really only two months, right? Sidenote: the bong was put away the next day after Lex revealed Jeff is a Sherrif’s Deputy.

I am thrilled to have both of my brothers up here. Even though I know I won’t see much of them and they will be busy with their college years – it’s just nice to know they are only a few minutes away. I’m sure my parents are relieved to only have to make one trip to see their children.

Lex is going to try and find a job working as a server or a bar back at a restaurant. Although, judging from Jeff’s new schedule, I have a feeling a lot of golf will be involved in the coming weeks before summer classes actually start. Which – while on the subject of Jeff’s new schedule, it stinks. I couldn’t be happier for him finally achieving this goal – but I need some selfish rambling time. It is a horrible feeling to wake up and have to go to work knowing that he is going to meet buddies for golf in a few hours. Ugh. I know this will be reciprocated once he has to work for a weekend and I’m lounging the day away, but that thought doesn’t help much right now.

Conference season is underway at work, which means lots of traveling for me. I have returned from Tampa and Wisconsin – next week will be spent in Orlando for the Florida Association of Counties annual conference. Our client event has taken an interesting turn with all the press surrounding the property tax issues. Since this event is my baby, I am anxious to see how things will end up. Am I really blogging about property tax issues? Sign # 2350730 I’m not in college anymore. I just got a phone call that the award application I submitted for a client won a national award so that’s exciting, adult-like news.

I have decided this is such a strange point in life. I don’t feel like an adult, yet I am forced to do such adult things. I have brought some of these upon myself by moving in with Jeff and yeah, the whole wedding idea brings on quite a few adult responsibilities – but Jeff and I are both like big kids. We giggle, play, fight, swim – pretty much we are like 12 year olds most of the time. This weekend, I totally regressed back to college days with the girls, ok, the past 3 weekends. However, during the week, the majority of the people I interact with are over 50 and I deal with such grown up situations. I discuss politics and the effects of property taxes on municipalities. What happened to me?! It ‘s just funny to sit back and look at how things have changed over the course of the year and marvel at how I would never in a million years have placed me where I am today nor do I have any clue where I will be tomorrow. That isn’t an easy thing to accept as someone who has a calendar by her side at all times. It has taken a lot of faith and trust to get me to this point and I continue to pray for the assurance that I am where I am meant to be. Things feel right, there have been some changes at work, so I think that’s a good sign.

Good friends are like good wine, they get better with age.

2007-05-30T10:52:00.000-04:00

The past few weekends have been a blast, consisting of quality time with old friends. Starting with a childhood friend’s wedding and continuing with a Memorial Day celebration at the lake with some Delta ladies and their significant others. Over the course of the last 10 years, so much has changed including the dynamic of many friendships. However, there are a few that never change and I have come to be so thankful for those select girls in my life. It is these people I can turn to and count on through the good, the bad and the ugly. Most of them have already been through a world of stuff with me and I know will continue to stand by me throughout the rest of my life. The same stands true for them – I would do anything to protect, support and encourage these amazing ladies.

With the wedding day approaching, I find myself reflecting on a lot of things and these women make me wish I could have no limit on the number of people standing by my side on October 20. They have all touched my life in such different ways, I will forever be grateful. They each play a significant role in our group of friends and the group simply would not function as is without their individual gifts, talents and characteristics.

While the sappy, unconditional love and support is an essential aspect of lasting friendships, the goofy, roll on the floor, cheer stunting, wrestling and laughing cannot be forgotten and this is where my friends take the cake. Whether it is screaming and laughing until our sides hurt or attempting outrageous feats (swimming 4 docks down to ask the neighbors if we can play on their toys with their spoiled children). We can still pretend like our cheerleading skills are up to par and that our tolerance is in-line with our college days. We call each other out on every embarrassing moment and will never let each other live down those not to wise decisions. We fight for no reason and make up just as easily. These make for some of the best memories and are what makes our friendships even more real. I live for the girls who I can be myself with, who make me laugh and who let me be as dorky and as weird as I want to be.

There's a New Sheriff in Town

2007-05-02T09:37:00.000-04:00

This week brings big changes in our lives. Jeff started his new job Monday with the Alachua County Sheriff's Office. It has been so wonderful to see his excitement - it was like a little kid on their first day of school. He spent Monday evening organizing all the goodies they gave him and we went through the entire benefits package. He will be in training for about the first three months. The first few weeks are in a classroom in a sort of "mini" academy. It is fun to hear his stories of what they are teaching him.

During his introductions on the first day - he was taken to evidence and got to see Danny Rolling's possessions. I'm very intrigued by the serial killer so that was interesting for me. His office is near mine so we have been able to meet for lunch - a rarity when he was working at Mid-State. Its just nice to have things falling into place and have him nearby.

We renewed our lease for our apartment again. Although the apartment is not the ideal situation - its a relief not to have to worry about finding a place. We got a weird vibe from the man we were going to rent from and we both just decided it would be easiest to rent for one more year and deal with buying a house after the wedding. So - we're in the same place for football season and have an extra bedroom for anyone who needs a place to stay when you come in town!

My mom and I went to Atlanta this weekend to shop with Cameron for bridesmaids dresses. After our query of e-mails and Internet stalking for dresses - I was hesitant to start this search. However, it ended up being such a great weekend. We had great luck from beginning to end and accomplished so much. The dress we chose looks so beautiful on her and I am sure it will be absolutely stunning on the other girls, as well. I can't wait to see them all in it.

And we're off...

2007-04-25T01:26:00.000-04:00

Well, the first official wedding event went off without a hitch. The "Peek" aunts along with my parents pulled off the most beautiful engagement party ever. Our fiesta-themed shin dig was held on my parents' backyard and everything looked absolutely amazing. We spent the night surrounded by about 80 of our closest friends and family. The food was wonderful (thank you Uncle David and Aunt Lynda for your culinary skills) and the margaritas and sangria flowed limitlessly.

It was everything I ever imagined it would be and made me more emotional than I ever anticipated. Just seeing how many people have influenced our lives in such a huge way and are there to support us, its a great feeling. Jeff's family was able to come up and get to know some of the crazy people that make up the Peek clan. His Nanny and Granddad were a hit, as usual. I am thrilled to be joining a family as crazy and fun as mine is.

The "kids" headed to Lake Weir after the party to continue the festivities. It was great to have some quality time with girls I haven't seen in a while and just to relax in the sun.

I think this officially starts the chain of events for the next few months. Thanks to everyone who made our night unforgettable. I hope you all enjoyed yourselves as much as we did. I can't wait for more times together!

When it rains, it pours...

2007-04-19T13:20:00.000-04:00

Part of working for the VP of marketing is participating in his crazy antics whenver they come about. This is the way I got involved in the LG 32 Corporate 5k last night. My boss's Leadership Gainesville class put together a 5k that we have been outwardly promoting for several weeks now. It was an unspoken understanding that not only would I use my work time to help with the event, but I would participate, as well.

I am constantly harrassed at work about my lack of atheletecism. After all, being a "Peek" should also mean I was handed the same genes of all the Florida collegiate Letterwinners that came before me. Clearly, this is not the case. I think God intended some of us to set up the tailgate.

Anyhow, I willingly turned in my application for the Company team and showed up in the rain at 6:30 last night to take part in one rainy walk/run. Thankfully, the women I work with are hilarious. We had a group of "walkers" who were ready to take last place and just have fun. Fun might have been a leisurely stroll on a spring evening, chatting with the girls. This, however, was a downpour on a night with the temperature consistently dropping. By the end of the first mile I had lost all feeling in both thumbs (strange, I know) and was drenched from head to toe. The path looped several times one of the greens at the golf course. I watched the runners steady inching closer and closer to us until I realized how easily it would be to switch directions and cut off a good portion of the run. As the rain soaked deeper and deeper into my t-shirt and pants and the risk of ruining my ipod increasing with every step, I made the turn. By this time, some of the walkers had made it to my turning point so it wasn't completely unbelievable that I would be finishing with the steady joggers. I had several additional opportunities to end the torture even sooner, but my fellow cheaters provided some sort of conscience (until we reached a point near the clubhouse).

Before the final loop toward the finish line, the path led us down the side of the parking lot next to the club house. The temptation of warmth just beyond the walls of that building were simply too much. Two of our employees were standing just before that point to encourage the runners. After passing them, I bolted around a tree and large bush into the parking lot and called it quits. Despite my efforts, the other employees saw me so there has been relentless redicule today at work. Oh well, at least I didn't try to cheat and get a good time - I just wanted to be somewhere dry and warm. It took all night to warm me up. I took a hot shower when I got home and stayed in until the water turned cold. I put on full pajama pants, long sleeves and socks when I curled up in bed (freshly washed sheets too, so that made it even more cozy). Apparently exhausted from all of my cheating efforts, I was out by 9:15.

Jeff gets sized for his ASO uniform today! His start date is April 30 and we are absolutely thrilled! We found out he gets paid for his leftover vacation time so that should be some extra money to help us get in the new house we are planning on renting!

Finally!

2007-04-10T16:34:00.000-04:00

A dream that has been two years in the making has finally come to fruition and it feels amazing. Jeff received a call today offering him a full-time position as a deputy with the Alachua County Sheriff's Office. We could not be any more excited. We have been waiting for what seems like an eternity.

Jeff completed the Law Enforcement Academy in 2006 and put his dreams on hold to find out where I would end up with my career. Once we realized that we wanted to stay in Gainesville, he started the application process with ASO and it has not been an easy one. I am so proud of him for sticking with it even when it seemed like no progress was being made. Good things come to those who wait and that is even more apparent right now.

I know he is going to be a wonderful deputy and has such a passion for it. I can't wait for the actual start date. Thank God for this opportunity, He truly answered our prayers on this one. Thanks to everyone who said a little prayer of their own. As my mom said, "your plan is finally falling into place." He will finally have a job that he is excited to wake up for -- and I'll have a cutie in a uniform too. :) What a feeling to know you are exactly where you are meant to be.

Weddings, Weddings, Everywhere

2007-04-05T16:23:00.000-04:00

Friends of ours were married this weekend in Crystal River, Florida and we were able to meet up with people that we had not seen in forever, even years in some cases. It was a special time to share old memories and create some new ones. It made me realize how events and circumstances in life truly do come full-circle.

Having been with Jeff since I was only 17, there have been plenty of ups and downs, not only in our own relationship but also in our relationships with friends. Relationships have come and gone, we’ve fought and made up –become enemies and confidants once again. It had been quite some time since we had been around many of the people who were once such a huge part of Jeff’s life and it was nice to reconnect with them.

We are reaching the point in our lives where our decisions are life-changing ones. I am thankful for the opportunity to come together and support one another in these decisions regardless of the drama or cattiness that once consumed our then hormone-driven lives. I knew one day I would be able to look back and laugh at the things we did and am relieved to finally be at that point, I hope the others feel the same!

Thanks to BJ and Jamie for a wonderful evening. We are thrilled we were able to share that time with you and wish you a lifetime of happiness. The excitement of the night pumped me up for several days of hard-core wedding planning of my own. That's how I work, in spurts. This week has been a good one and I feel like I have gotten a bit accomplished. One major task was the wedding web site. Although still a work in progress, it is officially up and running! Check it out at: www.audreyandjeff.com

Trudging along

2007-03-27T14:16:00.000-04:00

WalkAmerica is finished and we successfully completed an almost 10-mile walk. It was tiring but rewarding and not nearly as challenging as I thought it would be. We were definitely sore but no injuries and we continued the day by the pool, so no one can complain about a day like that.

My weekend wrapped up with a fabulous evening with my mom. I purchased tickets to see the UFPA production of "Mama Mia" at the Phillips Center here in Gainesville. I had no idea what it was about! It could not have been any more perfect for the two of us to see together. We laugh, cried, danced and sang our little hearts out after a delicious dinner and wine at Bonefish Grill. It was the perfect girls night out and I strongly suggest anyone who is interested in theater to check out traveling shows to the Phillips Center. I will now be on the lookout for upcoming events.

If anyone knows of any houses in the Gainesville area for rent, please let us know! We are very ready to be out of our apartment and have a fenced in yard for Addie to run in.

WW update: -3 pounds last week. -1 pound this week. slow and steady wins the race.

Ok, after having written this update, I decided I deserved a popcorn break (I am at work and my destressor is blogging). So, I walk to the employee breakroom, fully prepared to share half of my popcorn with a fellow weightwatchers member (2 pts for 1/2 a bag). As I am chatting and waiting on my popcorn to finish, I realize that there is a deliciously fattening chocolate cake with white icing and mini m&ms staring back at me from the counter.

I check over both shoulders - no one is in the room. Surely no one will notice if I take a small scrape of icing from the side of the yellow ceramic plate. Just as I am about to take a finger swipe, a voice from down the hall, "Don't touch it!" Damn. Oh well, it is probably for the best. In walks my boss, Josh, who continues to pile a plate of the scrumptious dessert so I cave. One small swipe of icing and I'm satisfied - back to my popcorn. The smell of smoke began to fill the break room as I realized my snack was now burnt beyond recognition. I grabbed the bag and ran out the backdoor so as not to disturb the nearby offices with the stench of burnt popcorn (such a considerate employee). The door to the back parking slams behind me, locking me out of the office. I stand for five minutes, banging on the door in hopes of someone hearing my cries - no such luck. I walk around to the side entrance, no luck there either. I am now stuck in the back lot which is entirely surrounded by a fence to keep the transients out (you would understand if you saw the neighborhood).

Finally, a woman comes to my rescue as I plead through the fence for her to come around and let me in. All this for a swipe of icing - karma clearly won out on this one.

Celebrity Look alikes

2007-03-24T04:15:00.000-04:00

A sorority sister of mine has a hilarious blog, www.bigappleangie.blogspot.com and I saw the celebrity look alikes on hers and couldn't help but seeing what my own were. It is 4:15 am and I am participating in WalkAmerica in about 3 hours. I can't sleep and have cleaned our entire apartment so this was a fun way to the pass the time. Enjoy.

Picture Uploads

2007-03-21T10:22:00.000-04:00

I finally found the cord to upload pictures from our digital camera and thought I would post a few from the past two weekends. As mentioned, we went exploring with Kylee and the previous weekend, we went down the Ocklawaha River to the Silver River with my parents and Addie. It was wonderful weather and such a relaxing trip. Here are a few pictures of our adventures:

Ready for a new week

2007-03-20T22:35:00.000-04:00

Finally, some time to sit and recap the last few days. Last week was just awful. I hate to be the complaining type, but it really was just a tough one. For those of you who are close to the family, I am sure you have at some point met the family dog and 4th child, Sassie. She is a German Shepherd and has been with us for 12 wonderful years. Despite her ferocious appearance, Sassie was afraid of everything, particularly uncarpeted floors --thus the random assortment of rugs spanning all hard surfaces in my parents' home.

Over the past few months, Sassie's condition had worsened and she had nearly lost all use of her hind legs. A common characteristic of German Shepherds is failing hips as they age, and Sassie was no exception. However, on top of this, she also had degenerative mylopathy, a fairly rare condition in which the immune system essentially attacks the myelin sheath of the spinal cord resulting in progressive paralysis. As painful as it was for us to watch her deteriorate, she felt nothing. This is probably why it took us so long to get to the point we were at last week. A visit from my Aunt Cheryl confirmed to my mom that it was time. She made that dreaded phone call to the vet and was told they would call once they knew when they would be able to accomodate us.

I was shopping on my lunch break on Wednesday and had an entire cart of goodies when I got the phone call from my mom. The vet had called and was on the way to the house. I left the cart and drove straight to Ocala, unsure of whether or not I would make it in time. After several phone calls to let the family know of my driving progress, the lovely ladies from the vet ran an errand to give me more time to get to the house. I simply didn't want my mom to face this alone and selfishly wanted one last chance to say goodbye.

When I arrived, Sassie was the center of attention, which she was loving. What followed was surprisingly peaceful. Had I not been there to witness the entire account, I know I would have been concerned of whether or not she had suffered. For anyone who ever has to face this, the peacefulness that I saw after it was all over was far better than the misery she was dealing with every day. Now, that doesn't make the day to day challenge of simply missing her any easier, but it certainly helped to see how much she struggled just to do ordinary things. She will be missed forever but we are thankful to have been fortunate enough to spend 12 great years with her. She has blessed our lives more than anyone will ever know. RIP Sassie -- 3/14/07

The following day I had to travel for work and spent the highlight of my week with Cameron (maid of honor) and Katie McCoun at their home in St. Pete. Thank God for these girls and their family for taking me in on my long drive from Bartow, FL. This night was the solace of my week and a great retreat from the chaos of the workplace. Even though our time was short, the giggles and gossip were greatly appreciated.

My plan was to stay in St. Pete for St. Patty’s day festivities but all I wanted to do was crawl in my own bed – so off to Gainesville I went. The weekend was spent with Jeff and Kylee and some much needed R&R. We went “exploring” like Dora and Diego (kid cartoon reference, yes, I’m officially moving into step-mom territory) and played around the apartment.

As luck would have it, Kylee brought something special with her when she came to visit – the flu! Jeff has been sick since Sunday night and even had to reschedule his ASO agility and firearms exam. It has been quite a scene for the past few days, lots of sides I have not yet seen of him, oh the joys of co-habitation. It seems to be on the way out (no pun intended) and hopefully he will be back to work tomorrow. Until then, I will continue to make Florence Nightingale proud.

Engagement Pics are Up!

2007-03-18T17:37:00.000-04:00

Check out www.lifewithcaroline.com - we are a "featured attraction" and have a few shots in her blog updates (although a few things have been shot since our session so you have to scroll down to view). Always advertising for Caroline Johnson photography but just take a look and see for yourself! Will update more later.

Superstars

2007-03-08T11:53:00.000-05:00

We had our first real photo shoot with our wedding photographer, Caroline Johnson, yesterday, which turned out to be so much fun. We wanted to take engagement pictures to get to know her and also to use in some of our wedding festivities. We went down to my parents' lake house on Lake Weir and did some shots out near the water. The weather could not have been more beautiful. It was a bright blue sky, glassy water and a gorgeous Florida sunset.

If you have a chance, check out www.lifewithcaroline.com for updates. She should be posting some sample pictures soon. For anyone in the Gainesville/Ocala area (or beyond, she loves to travel) planning a wedding or family photos, she is amazing! This experience helped assure us that we had made the right choice in hiring her. Her energy and creativity kept us going for hours.

After some silly shots around Gator Joe's, we had dinner and a chance to get to know each other even more (as if making out and snuggling up for the camera hadn't brought us close enough). It was fun to get to know more about their family and business. Hopefully we will be seeing more of them soon.

Life continues with lots of work and wedding planning. We are trudging along, knocking out tasks as they come along. Bridesmaids dresses are next on the list and a trip to Tampa is on the calendar for mid-March. The conference season is starting up so the summer will bring lots of trips around Florida, hopefully I will be able to fit in some shopping on my jaunts. Jeff is still doing test after test for the ACSO, more news when we have more info.

We had the chance to meet Jeff's parents, along with mine in Orlando for a night of craziness at Universal City Walk. We went to watch the band, Blue Stone Circle, we are considering for the wedding. We finished off at Pat O'Brien's with hurricanes in hand.

Marching on...

2007-02-28T15:18:00.000-05:00

The workout regime continues. After a short trial challenge, I am taking the lead on a co-worker. Our real challenge begins tomorrow and lasts until the end of March for most miles walked. I am beginning to grow accustomed to the routine on the treadmill and find that I can no longer sit on the couch to watch my favorite tv shows when I could be putting in valuable walking time. The competitive edge kills me. I must share what I have learned in the past two weeks:
a. Grey's Anatomy = 3.98 miles
b. The Academy Awards = 4.68 miles
c. Addie's bathroom breaks greatly decrease my average pace

Although I am certain Jeff thinks my new obsession is crazy, he has joined in on a few occasions. We have a date at a track tonight to calibrate the ipod nano. He received great news regarding the Sheriff position and will be doing a physical test in a few weeks so that provided some additional motivation for him to burn some calories with me. Pray for his continued success and guidance during this process. There is finally a light at the end of the tunnel!

No news on if this workout is actually doing any good. I don't feel like I have lost any weight but do feel a difference in endurance since the start of the challenge.

While I am marching along, so are the wedding plans. We made our honeymoon reservations (a secret spot so no one can find us) :) and have started getting together lots of little details. A recent trip to visit Jeff's family in Palm Beach brought a wonderful surprise. His cousin, Rick proposed to his long-time girlfriend, Tara. Ricky and Tara live in our apartment complex so it will be great to have another girl to plan with. Their wedding will tentatively be held in March/April 2008. Congrats guys, we love you!

During the same trip to South Florida, we drove up to Sebastian for Lisa and Mark's housewarming/engagement party. They will be marrying in August and Mark did an amazing job fixing up a house for himself, Lisa and baby Mark Andrew. It was a wonderful afternoon with old friends. People came from near and far to see the new place they will be calling home. I will be traveling down again on March 10 for the baby shower and time with the girls. I can't wait!

Cameron, my maid-of-honor, has also been hard at work pulling together possible dates and ideas for the bachelorette party. I haven't been involved much but am anxiously awaiting that weekend. It is sure to be a fun time with lots of quality girl time. Her parents have offered their home in St. Pete and I am so thankful! It will be a great central location with pool, boat and nearby bars for our partying.

Operation Fitness

2007-02-09T15:13:00.000-05:00

I work with total maniacs. Everyone on my hallway is insanely fit, whether it is triathlons or marathons, total fitness junkies. This pattern carries over into our work life and all work related projects. There are constant comparisons to finishing races and runners' jargon in Company e-mails. The latest Company contest is a pedometer challenge. Employees have "voluntarily" joined teams (I was threatened with my life) and are wearing pedometers to track their weekly steps.

My team, the Marketing Maniacs, is currently in third place and yours truly is the weakest link. These people are nuts, walking 10-12 miles a day. Our average is way above anything I walk in a day. So, I have been given my pep talk and am vowing not to be the biggest loser next week. My newly purchased ipod nano arrived this week and I am off to Target after work to join the other latest craze: the nike/ipod challenge. Hopefully adding this to the blog will make my decision even more concrete. I will update shortly on the progress.

Livin' in Gator Nation

2007-01-31T10:44:00.000-05:00

It with greatest pride I return to write "Ohio State was Gator Bait." Experiencing the win in the midst of the Swamp was simply indescribable. We watched the game from a treasured hole-in-the-wall bar, "Balls." Within seconds of the last play, University Avenue was transformed into a massive sea of orange and blue chaos. Fireworks and Christmas tree bon fires filled the air while students chanted from trees and lightposts. A few cars were damaged in the acts of celebration, but who would honestly park in the lot next to Pita Pit on such a night?

My parents were fortunate enough to travel out to Arizona to witness the win. At first I was jealous but I don't think anything can compare to being at home in the Swamp. A friend e-mailed an article referencing the Gator Nation taking over the world. How true! Every where I look there is some Gator in the news. I have never been more proud.

Wedding plans are continuing and we met with both sets of parents this weekend at Golden Ocala. We had so much fun and ended up spending most of the day there just chatting. The boys hit some balls at the driving range while the girls sat and tied loose ends on many details. We were happy to spend some time together before the real craziness sets in. In girly news, after several shopping trips I found a dress at Solutions Bridal in Gainesville. It is so convenient being right down the street. We also chose an adorable photographer, Caroline Johnson. If you have time, check her out, cjphotographer.com. Her work is amazing and her personality couldn't be cuter. For those girls planning weddings in the area, there are suprisingly a good number of great photographers, another one to check out is kgallery.com - Matt and Krystal are great. It was a toss-up.

Our next mission is to figure out where we are going to live. Jeff and I have been living in an apartment on Archer Road which is extremely convenient but not ideal for a growing lab. We are looking at houses but are not quite ready to make the committment of purchasing a home. If you know of any good rentals or contacts, let us know! We found one in Haile Plantation but are waiting to see if the details will work out.

Keep praying for Jeff's career. We are hoping to hear something from Alachua County Sheriff's Office in the upcoming month. He is also now looking into some of the smaller municipalities' departments. We are keeping our fingers crossed and playing the waiting game. Our neighbor, Chris Sims, is a deputy and has been helping him study up and prepare for all the interviewing. Hopefully their hard work will pay off.

My job is going great. I reached the 1-year mark and received a nice card from the COO. I am thankful to have found such a great group of people to work with. Especially since I am now hearing the horror stories of some of my friends who moved away. It seems like the 1-year mark is when people get antsy. Not to say it has been easy, but I am fortunate to be with a group of genuine people. I can honestly say staying in Gainesville and with the Company is not out of the question.

Holiday Recap

2007-01-04T10:27:00.000-05:00

Hello all. Hopefully you all enjoyed a peaceful and relaxing holiday season. I know Jeff and I did. Although the shock of no Christmas break is wearing on me now. It is my first holiday as an official grown up and it makes grad school look very enticing. All in all, it was a wonderful holiday. We were able to spend Christmas Eve with my parents and a few close friends. What a treat to watch the Vorisek boys open presents. They were so enthusiastic and excited, it reminded me of Bryce and Lex when they were little.

Christmas day was split between the Peeks and Boyles households. Kylee came to us around two and we drove out to Jeff's grandparents' house before making our way to Gainesville to have our own Christmas. Santa was very good to Kylee this year, leaving gifts all around Ocala. The big gifts were left with her mom and step-father, (a four-wheeler and trampoline), while we were lucky enough to receive more dolls and princess items than can fit in her bedroom. This is the first year Kylee has had a real Christmas break and we were able to have her stay with us in Gainesville for more than a week. It was nice to be able to spend more than a weekend with her but she definitely kept us on our toes and introduced us to the real side of parenthood (we will be waiting several more years before any talk of our own). Whew. I have a whole new respect for mothers everywhere.

Wedding plans are quickly taking shape and decisions have been made. The wedding is set for October 20 in Ocala. The ceremony will be at First Presbyterian and the reception at Golden Ocala. We are excited to have some definite plans after my indecisiveness for the past few months. We have found a church in Gainesville and will be starting some marriage classes in the next few weeks.

There has been lots of news of engagements over the past few months and the holidays were no exception. It is such an exciting time. It is going to be nice to have such a good group of girls to use as sounding boards for wedding ideas. I am looking forward to hearing all of the plans from Katherine, Lisa and Amy. We attended the wedding of Kristy Bauer and Michael Zeilinksi just before Christmas--wow, beautiful doesn't even do justice. Rumored to be featured on TheKnot.com, look for it soon.

Work is going well, just busy preparing for our upcoming conference season. It looks like it is going to be a busy one. Oh well, good excuse to travel. Speaking of travel, January is a busy month for my parents. They are traveling out to Arizona to bring home a win with GATORS! I am completely jealous but will be cheering them on in Gainesville and hope to experience a national championship in the streets of the Swamp. Go Gators!

Engaged!

2006-12-11T16:20:00.000-05:00

This blog has definitely taken the backseat over the past few months but an update is in order. Since my last update, quite a few things have changed. The biggest in my life right now, Jeff proposed! It happened on November 4, and I couldn't be happier. It was completely unexpected, although we have been talking about it for a while. I am pretty nosy and never thought he would be able to pull off a surprise, but he managed to catch me completely off guard out on a piece of property my dad is selling in Sumter County. Although not the way I had dreamed of my proposal happening, it could not have been more perfect. We laughed and cried and just enjoyed each other's company for the day. Jeff wanted to hunt but the only hunting I will do is with a camera, so he settled and we set off on our adventure. It was toward the end of the day that he finally popped the question. I am told he was waiting for sunset but my grouchiness was setting in and I was ready to go home so he had to do it early.

Our wedding plans are slowly underway. We have decided to wait until October of next year. This gives me plenty of time to plan and just be excited about engaged. Tentatively, the plan is for October 20 at Golden Ocala, but nothing is written in stone, yet. There are a lot of people and plans to coordinate given that this will be taking place during football season. We all know the priorities of the SEC fans.

In other news, Lex's highschool football team, Trinity Catholic, made it to the State Championship once again. After a rematch with Pahokee, TCHS is the state runner-up. We are so proud of Lex, he played a great game and is fending off the college recruiters until signing day. This is another reason we are waiting to set our wedding plans. We are unsure of which college schedules to plan around. It has been an exciting time watching Lex's seasons and we can't wait to see where he will end up (although I'm pushing for Orange and Blue, of course).

Bryce is still doing well at the University of Florida. He is living with our two cousins, Austin and Walker. In true Peek fashion, I hear they get some studying done between video games on their new flat screen. Bryce is still dating his high school girlfriend, Tiffany, who lives in Orlando but comes to visit often.

Kylee has made it through her first semester of kindergarten and it has been so entertaining! It is fun to see all the new sayings and mannerisms she has picked up from the other kids in the classroom. It was an adjustment at first, but after learning what "yellow lights" result in at home, she has fallen into the swing of things and doing great. She loves her teacher, Mrs. Conrad, and makes a game out of sounding out words everywhere we go. No more spelling to keep her from knowing what we are saying!

It will be our first Christmas in our apartment and I have been "shopping" at both our moms' houses for hand-me-down decorations. According to Kylee, the place looks "beautiful!" We are having a small Christmas party with some neighborhood friends. We have become close with a couple who live in our building, Chris and Natalie Sims. Chris is currently a deputy with Alachua County and is helping Jeff through the interviewing process. Chris and Natalie just had a beautiful baby girl, Anniston, who we can't get enough of. Chris has quickly become one of Kylee's new favorites, we will have to see how she reacts to the new woman in his life. They also have two adorable dogs, Tatem and Reese. Addie and Tatem are both labs so they love playing together! Every time we walk past the stairs, Addie gets so excited because she thinks she gets to go up and play.

In the beginning...

2006-07-10T15:08:00.000-04:00

As my first entry, I will give everyone an update on what I have been doing the past few years. I recently graduated from the University of Florida (where else?) with a degree in Public Relations. I was/am a member of Delta Delta Delta sorority and pledged in 2002. It was an amazing experience and enabled me to meet some fabulous women that I now, couldn’t imagine my life without.

After graduation, I just couldn’t get enough of Gainesville and accepted a job at Jones Edmunds, the same company I completed my internship with during my final spring semester. I am a Business Development Associate, dealing with marketing materials, conferences, Public Relations and special event planning. I love my job and am still adjusting to the pace of the working world. Jones Edmunds is an engineering consulting firm so there will be lots of learning going on in my first few years, as I am completely unfamiliar with anything related to engineering. I have come to realize why I was never involved with engineering but am fascinated by the political side of business and am excited that my job allows me to interact with many county and city officials around the state of Florida.

I have been dating a great guy, Jeff Boyles, for nearly four years, with the exception of a 6-month break during my senior year of college. Jeff is fantastic and compliments my personality indescribably. He has seen me through some of the most trying times and also been there to savor some of my most precious accomplishments. He completed the Law Enforcement Academy at CFCC and I couldn’t be more proud of him. He is currently in the application process at the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office. I am sure I will have updates on that status soon!

Jeff has a daughter, Kylee, 5, from a previous relationship, whom I simply adore. Although quite a challenge, I wouldn’t change it for the world. She continues to bring immense joy and uncontrollable laughter into our lives. It has been a pleasure to watch her grow into such a young lady. Kylee was celebrating her 2nd birthday when Jeff and I started dating, so I truly have been involved in her life since the beginning. She will be starting kindergarten in August and it is hard to believe how grown up she seems already!

While I am in Gainesville, trying to prepare myself for this real-world adjustment, the rest of my family is residing in Ocala. Bryce, 19, also a student at UF, is home for the summer working at Golden Ocala, alongside Lex, 17. My dad spends his free time flying in his new toy (no idea what kind, but some new plane) and my mom is busy decorating the new house on Lake Weir.

I have a cat, Smokey, who some might consider obese but I prefer to refer to him as healthy. Jeff and I also just adopted a puppy, named Addie. She is a 4 month old, lab/chow mix who hasn’t quite gotten the hang of potty-training. Our Thursday nights now consist of puppy class and we are waiting to get our carpets cleaned until she finally is accident free.