Resolution Check-up

It's August, almost September... it's time to look back at what I planned to accomplish this year and see how far I've come. I'm not great at keeping resolutions. I mean, who is, right? But this was my list from my New Years post: "Pay off my credit card debt. ALL of it. One. Card. At. A. Time." Well, I am happy to report that I have paid off SIX of them. **Update: As of 8/26/11... I have paid off all but ONE credit card. That's right, you heard me...ONE!


And, I paid off the car I bought in 2006... early. You may be asking yourself, "self, why does Lauren even have 6 credit cards?" Well, I don't... I have TEN. Listen, putting myself through college AND having a social life was expensive, ok? Don't hate. Just learn from my mistakes. There were a few other goals I set for myself:

1. Complete another 5K. CHECK. I did the Diva Dash 5K.

2. Build up my savings account. CHECK. Even with paying off my debt I've been able to put money aside...thanks to my parents for letting me move back in...again.
3. Continue my weight loss plan by eating healthy, working out, and drinking more water. Eh, this one has been more difficult. School and work have kept me busier than I would like. I have cut out Dr.Pepper, except the one or two a weekend I allow myself to have. I drink water like a fish. I workout when I can...I'm trying.

4. Read a book or two...for fun. Nope. Not quite. Just reading for school keeps me tied up. I hope to read on my upcoming beach vacation. Perhaps, The Help? I hear it's good.  
5. Increase young alumni participation in the Austin Kappa Alumnae Association. CHECK-ish. Well, I'm on the Alumnae Board now. I'm in charge of the Night Owls, so I'd like to say I'm getting closer to this goal.

I think I have done pretty well so far. I guess I CAN finish resolutions. How have you done?

"Team Bride" Tank Tops

This past Wed-Sat, I was in Sin City celebrating a Bachelor/Bachelorette party with The Future Caseys. We had a great time, but by day #4, everyone was ready to be home.

Before we went, I had the great idea of making matching shirts for the girls. I did some googling and came up with the idea to make "Team Bride" tanks.

Originally, I purchased some glitter iron-on transfer paper. It used my Cricut to cut out the letters and I was in love...

...until I went to peel the plastic off the front of the letters and the glitter came with it. I was furious.

So, Plan "B" was to iron no-sew backing on to fabric, then use the Cricut to cut out the letters. My first attempt was a huge FAIL. My mat wasn't sticky enough, my Cricut settings were off a little, and the letters would not cut out properly. I was just about to give up, but then I googled "cutting fabric with a Cricut" one more time.

I found a few great tips, recommended settings, and I was again renewed. On to Plan "C."

After a few trips to the fabric store, a new blade and sticky mat, and some hand-sewn flowers...

Viola!

And, of course, the Bride-to-Be needed a personalized sash!

Congratulations to The Future Mr & Mrs. Casey! Can't wait to be a part of your special day.