Dedicated to the Wonderful People in My Life

On Christmas Eve, I have so much to be thankful for!

1. Wonderful husband

2. Amazing family

3. Great friend

4. My strong faith

5. Being healthy

6. Having a job

7. A roof over our head

8. A car to take us to our jobs

9. Food and water

10. Living in paradise

These are just the many blessings in my life. Living away from our family has been hard but what has made it easier for Chris and I is the fact that we are in this together - always have been, always will be. God has blessed us with living in this beautiful place and we definitely make the most of it. We are both close to our families and talk to them every day. We thank God for the amazing family and connections we have with our family and friends back home.

2010 had it's ups and downs, like life does - but I am proud to say that we have stuck it through like the troopers we are. My mom has been doing great during her chemo treatments, my dad's health is great and he is still as active as ever; my sister got engaged to her long-time boyfriend; my brother and his wife moved into a new place - oh yea, Christopher and I got married!!! We are surrounded by the best families in the world!

Having a strong faith is also important to me. One of my 2010 resolutions was to have a stronger and deeper faith: continue to go to church on Sundays, and Holy Day's of obligation, read the bible more. I am proud to say that I have kept that resolution up and it feels great. Faith is a strong part of my life and drives my decisions and makes me the woman I am and the wife I want to be for Christopher.

In 2011, I want to continue living my life with a strong faith because it feels so good; I want to learn more about Catholicism; have Chris want to go to Church with me; get my AFPA Nutrition and Wellness Certification (more about this in a later blog); get a full-time job; become a National Psoriasis Foundation Mentor; freelance more. These are things on my to do list and part of my New Years Resolutions. But to me, I don't look at my resolutions as something I "have to do," I look it them as something "I want to do." It really makes a difference.

I know God has amazing things plan for us and I CAN NOT WAIT to see what he has planned for us in 2011.

Have you held up for your 2010 New Year's Resolutions? What are you thankful for? What are you most looking forward to in 2011?

Some special words I want to leave you with:

As Christmas draws near, it's time to clean up the house so everything will be in order for the celebration. Going to church on Christmas will mean each of us has to get cleaned up and ready too. Cleaning takes a little time and effort, but the result is well worth it.

God takes time, if we let him, to clean us from the inside out. Ask God to forgive you for your sins. As God to help you love those around you. As God, to heal any hurts or sorrows you have. God is ready to create a new and clean heart within you.

Lord Jesus, embrace s with your love so that we might accept your Word in our lives.

Study: Women are Unhealthier Than Ever

"Overall, the nation is still so far from the Healthy People and related goals that it receives a grade of 'Unsatisfactory'," the report said. "In none do women enjoy overall satisfactory health status."

Yep. that would catch my eye, too. But the question is what are we as women doing to keep being healthy? A lot of women, people, for that matter may think it takes a lot or "I just don't have the time" to be healthy. Which is completely false. All it takes is a little bit a knowledge and a want to continue to live a healthy lifestyle.

Click here to read the article more in depth.

Test: "Making the Grade on Women’s Health: A National and State-by-State Report Card"

Major points:
- More women are obese, diabetic, and suffering from hypertension than they were in 2007. - More women are testing positive for chlamydia (which can lead to infertility) - Fewer are being checked for ovarian cancer, and more are admitting that they've had five or more drinks in one go within the last month. - Part of the problem, the report points out, is that nearly 1 in 5 women between the ages of 18 and 64 are uninsured, and it's difficult to get adequate care without health insurance.
What have you done today to be healthy? When was the last time you went to the OBGYN or general doctor for a yearly exam? When was the last time your mother or sister or best friend went?

Your health comes first. If we're not healthy, then we can't take care of those around us who may need more help then we do. Continue to live your life and be healthy!

Healthy Holiday Food Guide

With the wonderful holidays behind and currently upon us, I am always looking for healthy alternatives to the holiday staples you will undoubtly see at the office parties, neighbor's get-togethers and friends shindigs. Read on to get in the holiday mood the right way and fit into that LBD or those skinny jeggins with booties; whatever occasion is in your holiday future.

Mixed Nuts or Olives? PORTION CONTROL
Olives - have the healthy monounsaturated fats like olive oil, which help lower cholesterol.
Nuts - also high in monounsaturated fats and a good source of fiber.

Soft or hard cheese?
Though all cheese is high in fat, soft cheese tends to have less fat and fewer calories. A one-ounce serving of Brie(soft) contains about 94 calories; while one ounce of Gruyere(hard) has 117 calories

Pigs in a blanket or mini quiche? I am a sucker for the mini quiche!

"Both are high in saturated fat, cholesterol and sodium" but quiche is the lesser of two evils gaining calcium from cheese, protein from eggs and nutrients from the veggies. The piggies are likely to be processed food and the mini quiche may be high in sodium from the crust, so please limit one :)

Roast beef or ham?

RB is less processed, contains half as much saturated fat and has 3X more iron and high in vitamin b. But both are a great source of protein - just eat sparingly.

Sugar cookie or gingerbread cookie?

Sugar cookies have about twice as many calories thanks to all the butter(no thank you) also high in saturated fat. But the GBread cookies are empty calories. If you can't resist the cookie jar, like always, one is better. Don't be a cookie monster!

Cocoa or egg nog?

"Eggnog and cocoa that is made with real milk both have lots of calcium, about 300 milligrams in eight ounces. But eggnog, as the name implies, also contains eggs and sometimes heavy cream and brandy, which translates into about 300 calories and 12 grams of fat in a five-ounce serving." Enough said. Just make sure the cocoa isn't the instant made one which contains less protein, calcium and flavanoids (which help prevent arteries from clogging - always a plus.

Candy cane or chocolate kisses?

The candy cane is just pure sugar and has no nutritional value, but it lasts longer which will keep you away from the sweets table (we can hope, can't we?) A candy cane contains about 55 calories and no fat, while five chocolate Kisses contain 127 calories and seven grams of fat.

But, if you must indulge your sweet tooth and take the chocolate, make sure they are the dark chocolate ones which contains the excellent flavanoids mentioned earlier.

Think you can make the smarter decision when you visit your next par-tay? Yes, because you are informed now! All it takes is a little bit of knowledge and I promise you wont be giving yourself a hard time the next day or kicking your own butt at the gym to run off those extra mini quiches you ate.

ENJOY AND HEALTHY EATING!!

PR and Special Events Coordinator at Your Service

Currently, I am a Public Relations and Special Events Coordinator whom recently partnered with my husband Chris Skiles, award-winning Art Director for MauiTime to bring my PR and Marketing expertise to lucky11studios.

If you're looking for a fresh PR spin on your new company, need help building a brand from the beginning, need to update your current marketing materials (when was the last time you took a look at that company bio or mission statement?), or creating the next big event in your life or company.... I am available for your needs. Partnering with lucky11studios, you also get the best of both worlds as we can complete all of your design needs. Need a new logo? Having trouble mastering that fact sheet in INDESIGN? Let us know.

I also currently freelance for MauiTime writing bar and restaurant reviews. Check out my reviews here.


MY BACKGROUND
While working as the PR and Special Events Coordinator for Pennino and Partners, a PR agency in Texas, I coordinated all social media marketing efforts for WorldFest Houston International Film Festival, significantly increasing audience attendance and implementing their first social media campaign which is still in use today.

My first project with CORESTAFF Services, I secured media coverage with major news outlets including ABC, Associated Press, BBC, Bloomberg Business News, BusinessWeek, CNN, National Public Radio, The Wall Street Journal, USA Today and many other local and national business media outlets. I also assisted them in achieving their media outreach goals by 100 percent.

My experience also includes public relations and media writing; social media marketing; securing on-screen media appearances for clients; developing marketing materials for publicity programs; client sponsorships and recruitment; planning, staffing and hosting media at events; planning special events; building relationships with reporters and pitching major news outlets.

For any questions, comments or to get a quote on your next project please send a message to sabrina.dreyer@yahoo.com. For your design needs, send a message to lucky11studios@gmail.com or find us on Facebook! With reasonable rates, project-to-project basis and no long term contracts, we will find a price right for you and your needs.

Look forward to helping you on your next project!

First Sunday of Advent

Today marks the first Sunday of Adent. Advent is a perfect time to pray and invite Jesus into our lives - it's the weeks leading up to Christmas and Christ's day of birth. The joy of Christmas is not the same as the happiness we might experience giving and receiving presents, gathering with family and friends for special meals or listening or our favorite carols and hymns. "The wonder and the joy of Christmas is knowing our Savior came to free us from sin and death, so that we might have a share of the very life of God, now and forever. "

Whatever your religion is, whoever you might believe in, take some time this Advent to give thanks to the one who truly matters (who ever that might be in your life).

Being a Sunday school teacher in the past, I always remembered how fun and excited my sister and I would get planning our Advent activities for the kids. It was our time to teach them what Advent means, how to prepare our hearts for the Lord, Christ's birthday and how to use the special wreath with three purple and one pink candle. "The purple candles in particular symbolize the prayer, penance, and preparatory sacrifices and goods works undertaken at this time. The rose candle is lit on the third Sunday, Gaudete Sunday, when the priest also wears rose vestments at Mass; Gaudete Sunday is the Sunday of rejoicing, because the faithful have arrived at the midpoint of Advent, when their preparation is now half over and they are close to Christmas."

I was so excited to go to mass and celebrate the first Advent Sunday. I can't thank God enough for the blessings he gives to me and my family everyday. This Advent is another reason to be thankful for Him and His many blessings! I am going to be incorporating special blessings and Advent scripture readings this seasons. What will you be doing?

Have a wonderful Advent and Christmas Season.

101 Best Things To Do To Your Body

This title had me at "best things." I am all about eating right, exercising daily and basically trying to live a healthy lifestyle. So I try to immerse myself in as much as I can to learn more and more about how to do so.

This Women's Health article has easy tips, tricks and suggestions to start implementing now. When you have a few minutes, read it. I promise it you wont regret it. Click here to start reading what you can do now!

ENJOY AND HEALTHY EATING

One Year Ago

This wont be a long entry. Just a reflection on the past year here and with my job at The Grande Wailea.

November 11 marked one year since I have been at the hotel. I am thankful to have a job right now and grateful for the many people I am meeting. I have realized that I like the hospitality industry a lot. But that comes as no surprise to me, because I love being around people and feel comfortable interacting with high-level clients as well as guests at the hotel. There have been some highs and lows, but I am proud of the way I have been handling things. It shows a lot about my character, the strength I have and that you must have a thick skin to work in this industry - that's probably true for most any job out there.

Chris and I had no idea we were going to be moving out here in the short amount of time that it happened. We had goals for ourselves when we moved here, and I'm proud to say we have accomplished most all of them. One was getting me a full-time PR job. We quickly realized that wasn't going to be an option here. As most of the job opportunities here are with the resorts, and there are no PR agencies here - I don't even think people here know the meaning of PR/marketing. It can be a hard concept to grasp :) I am thankful for the background I have and the amazing mentor I had, Laura Pennino of Pennino and Partners. I wouldn't be as confident in my PR background if it wasn't for her and her amazing leadership role she took with me.

But I have lots of exciting ideas and hopefully some new projects in the works. So stay tune and we look forward to what God as planned for us next.

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Where were you a year ago today and have you completed the goals you set out for yourself?

My Eating and Diet Regime

I usually get asked this question a lot "How do you stay in great shape?" "What do you eat?" Especially with the holiday's coming up, it is important to make the right decisions when it comes to living a healthy lifestyle.

Well here it is folks - all my secrets! But really, there are no secrets. It's just a matter of choosing the right foods (protien and fiber-rich foods vs sodium and sugar filled catasophes) and exercising at least 30 mins a day.

It's always important to get a good nights sleep, at least 7-8 hours. If your job or day-to-day schedule doesn't allow that many, try this little tip: try going to bed at least an hour earlier every night then the previous night. You'll be getting plenty of zzzz's before you know it.

A very great quote to always remember "Eat more often and you'll avoid binging at lunch and dinner" Each mini-meal should have a good comboniation of protien and fiber: It takes longer for your stomach to digest, which keeps you fuller for longer.

With a little help from my wonderful Womens Health and Eat This, Not That

Breakfast: Since you may not have a lot of time, mix protien and quality carbs " when protein is included in a meal, not only does it help prevent overreating at other times of the day, but it also sustains energy levels and improves concentration"

110 calories: latte with reduced-fat milk

200 calories: 1 cup reduced-sodium cottage cheese with fresh peaches and cinnamon

250 calories: Any-way-you-like-it egg on a whole-grain English muffin with melted cheese

300 calories: Peanut butter and reduced or no sugar jelly on whole-grain English muffin (my go to favorite! Dont like English muffin, go for whole grain toast)

300 calories: scrambled-egg burrito with turkey suasage and salsa

Morning Snack: Since the calorie and sodium-ridden vending machine snacks may surround you during the day, buy only what you need and keep a stash at your desk: string cheese (buy the big pack at Costco), granola bars(not the Nutri Grain or Nature Valley, please! they are filled with sugar and HFCS and have no nutritional value) or trail mix.

80 calories: string cheese (me and Chris' favorite!

100 calories: hardboiled egg with a handful of grape tomatoes

275 calories: 2 or 3 small handfuls of trailmix

300 calories: slice of whole-grain bread topped with peanut butter and banana (if I know it might be awhile for lunch or till I have time for my morning snack, I usually have this has my breakfast too) the protien from the peanut butter keeps you full!

Lunch: Be careful here, if you've already had a heavy calorie breakfast, keep lunch light. Remember it's about balancing out your calories compared to how active you are.

175 calories: Canned tuna with balsamic vinegar on whole-grain crackers or bread

350 calories: Half an avacado, sliced, or 1/2 cup prepared quacamole with tomator and onion in a whole-grain pita

400 calories: 1/2 cup of hummus with roasted veggies

400 calories: Small ham, turkey or roast-beef and Swiss wrap with veggies and mustard, in a whole-wheat tortilla or you can have it on a sandwich and try leaving off the top slice.

Afternoon Snack: say to yourself "No candy that the assistant has!"

160 calories: Reduced-fat Cheddar melted on apple halves

175 calories: 5 Laughing Cow cheese wedges

250 calories: 1 cup reduced-fat yogurt

260 calories: Apple, pear or banana smeared with peanut butter

350 calories: 1 cup each fat-free milk and frozen yogurt blended with a spoonful of peanut butter

Dinner: The key words here are portion control! The majority of restaurants now serve on a much larger plate, therefore giving you larger amounts of the food, which you don't need. "Portion control is crucial, whether you're looking to control weight, manage blood sugar, or maintain energy levels."

275 calories: 3 or 4 large handfuls of greens sauteed in olive oil with a handful of walnuts and 1/2 cup of raisins

300 calories: 6-piece sushi meal with a cup of miso soup (so yummy!)

325 calories: Buffalo burger topped with coleslaw, onion, and tomato

350 calories: Quesadilla made with a small corn or whole-wheat tortilla, cheese, beans, shredded chicken or lean ground turkey, onion, and jalapenos, dipped in salsa

400 calories: Slice of pizza toped with cheese and ground beef or ham

550 calories: Lentil, minestrone or tomato soup with a grilled-cheese sandwich on whole-grain bread

550 calories: 1 cup pasta tossed with ground turkey breast, black olives, diced onion a drizzle of olive oil, and 1 1/2 tablespoons crumbled Gorgonzola cheese

Evening Snack:

150 calories: 5 cups Jolly Time light microwave popcorn sprinkled with hot sauce and or 1 tablespoon Romano cheese; 1 cup rice pudding; 6 or 7 strawberries dipped in yogurt and drizzled with chocolate sauce; 1 cup cocoa made with skim milk

175 calories: Sliced sweet potato(with skin), tossed in olive oil and baked

200 calories: Root-beer float with 2 scoops frozen vanilla yogurt; 2 handfuls olives

275 calories: 2-ounce Snickers bar

ENJOY AND HEALTHY EATING!!

10 Foods for a Longer Life

I have eaten almost all of these on a daily basis. Something I would like to increase in our diet and healthy lifestyle is eating more grapefruit. My dad use to have grapefruit ready for us every other day when we were little and I LOVED it! That is one food I will be re-introducing to our diet to reap all the wonderful rewards! Read on for a list of the foods everyone should be eating every day:

1. Green Tea: researchers believe that catechins(found in all green tea) are effective at boosting metabolism.

2. Garlic: inside in your body it fights cancer, strengthens your cardiovascular system, decreases fat storage, and fights acne inflammation.

3. Grapefruit: Those who ate the grapefruit also exhibited a decrease in insulin levels, indicating that their bodies had improved upon the ability to metabolize sugar

4. Greek Yogurt: a single cup has about a quarter of your day’s calcium, and studies show that dieters on calcium-rich diets have an easier time losing body fat.

5. Avocado: Monounsaturated fats (the healthy fats found in avocado) both improve you cholesterol profile and decrease the amount of triglycerides (more fats) floating around in your blood.

6. Eggs: at a cost of only 72 calories, each large egg holds 6.3 grams of high-quality protein and a powerhouse load of vital nutrients. So replace those carbs and start your day right!

7. Quinoa: quinoa boasts a stronger distribution of nutrients than any grain you’ll ever get a fork into. It has a nice nutty flavor and cooks just like rice in about 15 min.

8. Bell Peppers: The range of benefits provided by these colorful pigments include improved immune function, better communication between cells, protection against sun damage, and a diminished risk for several types of cancer. If you don't like the peppers, substitute these and reap the same healthful benefits: carrots, sweet potatoes and watermelon.

9. Almonds: Nearly a quarter of an almond’s calories come from belly-filling fiber and protein. I wasn't a big fan of this fiber-filling snack at all but now I want to eat these everyday! if you're not a big almond or nut person, give it a little time. Substitute your snack time chips for a handful of these and you will thank me later!

10. Swiss Chard: nature’s ultimate multivitamin, delivering substantial amounts of 16 vitamins and vital nutrients, and it does so at a rock bottom caloric cost of 35 calories. I didn't even know what this vegetable was but now that I know about this vegetable and all the health benefits, I will definitely be trying it.

These were just short quotations from each blurb. Click here to find out more of the amazing life benefiting food. And once again, please leave your comments or advice on any one of these!

ENJOY AND HEALTHY EATING!

Life Isn't as Serious as Our Mind Makes it Out To Be

I am reading a great new book right now called "A New Earth, Awakening to Your Life's Purpose" by the talented Eckhart Tolle.

Honestly, it was really hard to get into at first. He dives right into talking about the message behind the book, how to get the best use out of the book, etc. I'm not a big fan when authors do that- just let me get to the point myself.

It is when he starts writing about Ego: The Current State of Humanity in which I can't put the book down. I will be highlighting certain parts and quotations that speak to me as I read the book. I will put my opinion on some but there others that are strong enough to stand on it's own. I do this for my sake but also because when I find a new book that I enjoy reading, I want others to know about it. If It speaks to me, then it may speak to others.

"Every ego confuses opinions and viewpoints with facts, it cant tell the difference between an event and it's reaction to that event. Only through awareness-not through thinking- can you differentiate between fact and opinion. Only through awareness are you able to see."

"Whatever you fight, you strengthen, and whatever you resist, persists." This one is my favorite and speaks to me the most.

"life isn't as serious as our mind makes it out to be"

"Thinking is only a tiny aspect of the consciousness that we are."

"Words, no matter whether they are vocalized and made into sounds or remain unspoken as thoughts, can cast an almost hypnotic spell on you... You easily lose yourself in them, become hypnotized into implicitly believing that when you have attached a word to something, you know that it is." This rang true to me because of the emphasis we all put on words. Especially now with the hot button issue of bullying. On a daily average 160,000 children miss school because they fear they will be bullied if they attend classes.On a monthly average 282,000 students are physically attacked by a bully each month. Since Social
Networking has taken over, bullying has become something else.

I don't know what gives kids the right to say cruel things to others. It has a lot to do with parents. So if you are one, don't gossip first of all and don't do it in front of your kids. They learn it from some where and you have to be the ones to teach our kids what's right.

This is what happens when I find a great read. I love just re-writing the words - I get more out of it and hopefully it speaks to others as well.

Please feel free to comment when you find a great read or a quote or anything you find that speaks to you.

Do You Still Need Date Night Out?

Yes, I really asked that question. Because that question came up when Chris and I went out to dinner the other night.

We had our first night out in Maui as husband and wife and we went to Bocalinos, Mediterrean with a fusion of Italian. It was a new place and I have been dying to try it. The building is lit up from the inside and looks so modern from the outside. We sat at a table right in the middle and secluded. I started off with a Merlot and Chris had his Longboard.

The menu was comprised mostly of delicious sounding tapas - trust me we wanted to try them all - chicken egg rolls, baked oysters Provencale, calamari fritti, New York steak pupu. They also have a Koi Sushi Bar. But we ended up going with the Spicy Sausage - which turned out to be more of a meal instead of a tapa - otherwise the sausage was seasoned perfectly, pasta was cooked well and the tomatoes were juicy complimenting the spiciness of the sausage. Then we split the lasagne (you can never go wrong with lasagne) The meat sauce had a nice blend of tomatoes and herbs and the lasagne layers filled with meat and cheese just melted in your mouth. Granted it was a great dinner, but LOTS of carbs, which need to be run of as we speak :)

The whole night we talked about our day, our thoughts on different subjects and brainstorming potential new business projects. I enjoyed just sitting there talking about anything and everything with Chris. We weren't distracted by our new AppleTV, phones, or anything else around the house. It was a nice feeling.

So on the way home, I told Chris "I had such a great time, thank you." A thank you always goes a long way, even in a marriage :) And he said he did too of course. Then I was like we should go get a drink somewhere. This is where the whole question comes in, he said "But we have drinks at home, we can just go home." If I wanted to go home, I would've suggested it lol!

Then we started to discuss the whole date night out vs staying out home. Studies have proven that date nights can be beneficial to not only marriages but relationships. That's why I feel that it's always important to have your weekly/monthly date nights out. It strengthens the bond between you two and raises your bodies natural endorphines which has the ability to produce feelings of well-being ( the same feelings one has when you start dating).

You don't have to go to the most expensive restaurant or hot spot. Just a place that's special to yall, maybe somewhere yall when on your first date or a favorite burger joint. As long as you're getting away from the distractions at home then you're good to go. If your schedules are super busy, then plan it that week AND it will give you both something to look forward to.

Christopher and I also have our weekly Taco Tuesdays which is something we both look forward to! And super easy on the wallet! Because you just pick up the stuff on your weekly shopping trip :)

When was the last time you had a date night out with your significant other or even your friends or siblings? Take time our of your "busy" life and do something good for yourself and those special in your life.

And you're welcome in advance!

We Got Married!!!!!

Wow, with out realizing it, it has been about a month since I last wrote on my blog. I was a little busy getting.... MARRIED!!!!!

It has been an exhilarating, amazing, joyous, hectic, fun-filled, etc month!

Back to the married part: Christopher and I got married on October 9, 2010 with a beautiful ceremony at the gorgeous Sacred Heart Co-Cathedral Church followed by the most amazing and perfect reception at America's Reception Hall. Pictures on FB, but will post photos on here later. The same question I get asked a lot is "So was it everything y'all hoped it was?" Yes, it really was. We were so grateful to be able to fly back to Houston and have our wedding there. What made it even better was that my entire family from Argentina (cousins, aunts, uncles) were all able to come down and be apart of it. We truly are the luckiest two people and had the most amazing time celebrating our love in front of our friends and family.

Looking back, we loved everything about our wedding. What wasn't to love: flowers were gorgeous, BM and GM looked spectacular in their dresses and tuxedos, moms and dads looked even better, our readers were GREAT, ceremony and the Father were incredible(minus my dad's cell phone going off!), my dress was beautiful and Chris loved it, Chris looked SO HANDSOME!, reception hall was out of this world (Thanks to Christian Cabello! I definitely recommend him!), food was great, dancing and music- well let's just let the pictures explain that one, our cake and the Grooms cake(homemade MAC cake) was awesome, homemade dessert table even better! and the fact that we had all our family and friends, well, that's all we can ask for!

It hit me, when we were saying our vows to each other; when we put our rings on each other and walking down the aisle as Mrs. Christopher Skiles. I can't put it into words how amazing our time was there. We have so many amazing memories from the time we spent with everyone and look forward to the next time we are all able to get together! The times we spend with each other will forever be in our hearts and memories. Thank you to everyone who contributed to making our wedding day the most memorable and amazing time.

No, we didn't take a Honeymoon. We both took time off of work and aren't able to take more time off and we're saving up as well. We also live on Maui, hello! So what we may end up doing is see if we can visit some of the other islands and make it an ongoing honeymoon. No rush. We have the rest of our lives to be together :)

Now we are back to the daily grind: working at the Grande Wailea and designing the wonderful and always artistic MauiTime.

Keep us in your prayers as we both venture off to try new things and await the next chapter of our lives!

Im Hoooommmmmmeee!

I have been home now for about a week and a half and I haven't stopped going since I got here. But I wouldn't have it any other way! Seeing as how I haven't updated since then, you can tell how busy I have been!! Thing's I have done:

1. Had my first dress fitting
2. Found white shoes and earrings
3. Mom found her beautiful dress!
4. Dad and bro got fitted for their tux/suit
5. Met with the venue coordinator to finalize floor plans, cake design and food
6. Met with DJ to finalize play list
7. Met with florist to finalize all flowers (I have the best florist ever! Flowers by Lois)
8. Bought my dresses for: bridal shower, rehearsal and bachelorette party
9. Attended my awesome bridal shower!!
10. Picked up gifts for flower girl and others

Wheeewwwww!!! That's a lot of stuff in a week and a half! And I'm still not done.
1. Started with the seating chart- that has to be one of the most stressful thing EVER!
2. Attend my final dress fitting next Sat
3. Hopefully get my bridal portraits taken
4. Do a trial run with my hair stylist and makeup artist
5. Find my sister and BM's their shoes!!
6. Attend bachelorette party!
7... and so much more.

It has been a little stressful but so great being back and seeing everyone, especially spending time with my family and staying with my sister! It's hard being away from friends and family especially since both Chris and I are big family people. I already knew I was lucky to have the family and friends that I do, but being here with everyone makes me feel even more lucky and blessed to have such amazing people in my life.

I have even had time to go to a UH football game with my sister, her boyfriend, my bro and sister in law; shopping with my mom and sister(what we do best!); have some lunch/coffee dates with my BM's; shoe shopping with my sister in law; hang out with friends at Sawyer Park (awesome place!); met and got marriage advice from Houston Rocket's Shane Battier! So it hasn't been bad!

My parents have made me into the woman that I am; my sister and brother take care of me even when I don't have to tell them; my amazing friends keep me grounded; my fiance keeps me wanting to be a better woman and wife :) for him. I couldn't ask for a better life!

Thank you to everyone who makes a difference in my life and keeps me sane :) Bear with me through this "emotional, stressful" and happy time of me and Chris' life before we start our life together as husband and wife. We couldn't do it without you!

My Mother

You have to be living under a rock if you don't know that my mother is one of the strongest people you will ever meet. Today, she starts another round of Chemo because they found a cancerous spot or a mestasis on her lower back. This round of Chemo wont be as bad as the other rounds (crossing our fingers), but still it's chemo and it sucks! So this blog is dedicated to how strong, amazing and loving my mother is. We all know she is going to make it through this because of how strong she is.

I always say, God doesn't give us anything we can't handle. I truly believe that. If my mother can get through the last round, she can get through this, and anything else - especially raising twins and an older brother! She has many great things to look forward to and be healthy for. God is just making sure she is in excellent condition :)

My parents are, of course, a big part of my life. They are the reason I would eventually like to go back to school to get a degree or nutrition certificate to be a certified nutritionist. It's really easy to adopt a healthy lifestyle and I want to be able to teach that to other people. My parents inspire me to do better things and I can only hope that I will make them proud in the process.

If you, a family member or someone you know is going through a hard trial in their life facing cancer, a tough pregnancy, a serious injury, loss of a close one etc, take a few moments out of your day to let them know that you are thinking about them and wish them well. Thoughts and prayers go a long way.

Top Five List of Things I Hate While Traveling

On my recent trip from Maui to Houston, I continued to notice many things I hate while traveling. And it didn't just happen on this trip, but happens EVERY time I get on a flight.

1. If you have an extra seat, hell, if you have two extra seats, don't be a selfish person and share. You don't really have a back problem and you didn't purchase all three seats.
2. If you have a family, obviously you know you're going to want to sit together, so PURCHASE your tickets together. Even if they don't have it at the time, make it happen. Trust me, it can happen. I've done it. Speak to manager and they will make it happen.
3. Bringing food on the plane. It doesn't matter if you like a Caesar Salad or a Curry Chicken sandwich, the person sitting next to you and the people around you, can't stand the smell. So please don't for the sake of those around you.
4. When the plane lands, everyone doesn't need to hurry up and stand up. It's a plane we're all getting off. You don't have to rush and make it miserable for everyone else.
5. When waiting for your luggage at baggage claim, you all don't need to crowd around at the exact same place. It's a circle, it all comes back around. Please don't stand right next to me or in
front of me if I'm already there.

These were just the five major things I noticed. I'm sure I'll add more. Feel free to comment and add what you have noticed that frustrates you.

Hope you don't have to deal with any of this.

To The Selfish Lady on the Plane With Me

Dear Selfish Lady on the plane who has three seats to yourself,

I understand a family got separated and because of that I have to get the result of a lady sitting next to the empty seat next to me. You have three seats to yourself. When we asked you if one of us could come and seat over there you said "I have a back problem, I'm gonna use all three of them." Sorry bia, this is an 8 hour flight, we all have "back problems" and would like three seats to ourselves. Of course, I call the flight attendant over and she says that no, she didn't purchase those three seats so anyone can seat there. When I asked the lady next to me if she wouldn't mind moving, because this was MY seat and I would like to stay here, she looks to the flight attendant and says "I don't want to sit over there because of that negative energy from her." Are you freakin kidding me! Because this stupid lady thought energy really matter, didn't get off her Euro-trash butt and move over there. I wasn't going to move because this was my seat and I wanted to stay by the window and have that one. I even told her that if she moved we could all have more room, she was stupid enough to say "I don't care about more room" Who doesn't care about more room on an 8 hour flight? So because this ignorant lady wouldn't move, the selfish bia had three seats to her self and we had to be cramped in our little seat.

Please don't be selfish. Share your luck (the fact that you got three seats to yourself) with others who aren't quite as fortunate as you. Oh, but don't you worry, you will get what's coming to you.

KARMA IS A B**TCH.

Sincerely,
The airplane passenger knowing Karma is coming for you

Psoriasis Doesn't Define How I Live My Life

One of the challenges for National Psoriasis Awareness month which ended yesterday, was to come up with a way to express/raise awareness about psoriasis. We could write a song, poem etc. This is what I came up with. I hope it raises awareness about some of the major aspects of psoriasis and gives those of us living with it, a sense of confidence.

Psoriasis Doesn't Define How I Live My Life....

I define how I live my life.
Sure, psoriasis can be irritating, itchy, annoying and embarrassing
But why wouldn't we want to find a way to live our life without having to worry about what we have to wear next.

Psoriasis wont define how I live my life, I define how I live my life.

Life and daily activities can cause stress; Stress can cause a flare up; psoriasis can cause stress
Lets find a way to end this never-ending circle.

Psoriasis doesn't define how I live my life, I define how I live my life.

We need support and funding from local leaders, representatives and mayors.
Let's show them and the world that "psoriasis is a serious health issue—one that demands more national attention, research dollars and public understanding."

Psoriasis wont define how I live my life, I define how I live my life

Life is about loving the gifts we're given, the obstacles we over come, the milestones we reach, being confident about who we are and the impact we have on this world.
Psoriasis is only a little speed bump in the game of life.

Psoriasis doesn't define how I live my life, I define how I live my life

46 Days To Till I Am a Married Woman

Oh-my-goodness! We are down to 46 days now. Not months, days!!!! I can't believe it's getting here already. We are so ready to come home and celebrate our love with this wonderful wedding and be able to spend time with our families.

Instead of a list of what I needs to be done (because pretty much everything is done!), here is a list of what is left to do:

1. Fly home (Sept 8)
2. Dress fitting (Sept 11)
3. Bridal shower (Sept 18)
4. Bachelorette party (all my sisters doing, she wont tell me anything!)
5. Buy shoes: white for the ceremony, and red for the reception
6. Schedule an appt with my stylist and MUA to go over hairstyles and makeup
7. Meet with florist
8. Meet with venue coordinator to go over final floor plan and details
9. Show the future-in-laws the ceremony and reception venue
10. Finalized music details

I'm sure I will come up with more, but for now this is a good list. And I am super excited to get everything done - and of course spend time with my family!

Words can not express how excited I am for this amazing chapter of my life to begin with the most amazing man in the world.

47 days and counting!!!

August is National Psoriasis Awareness Month

I am so glad to learn that August (my birthday month) is National Psoriasis Month. For those who don't know here is a little breakdown as to what Psoriasis is from www.psoraisis.org (to learn more!)

Psoriasis is a chronic, autoimmune disease that appears on the skin. It occurs when the immune system sends out faulty signals that speed up the growth cycle of skin cells. Psoriasis is not contagious.

There are five types of psoriasis: plaque, guttate, inverse, pustular and erythrodermic. The most common form, plaque psoriasis, appears as raised, red patches or lesions covered with a silvery white buildup of dead skin cells, called scale. Psoriasis can occur on any part of the body and is associated with other serious health conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease and depression.

According to the National Institutes of Health, as many as 7.5 million Americans have psoriasis.

I have lived with Psoriasis since 2000 and it hasn't been easy. I use to have it on about 90% of my body including: scalp, arms, stomach and legs. I was miserable for a long time. We didn't know what to do. Then we heard about the Photo Light Therapy treatment. My insurance covered it completely (thank God!) and this was a blessing! Within a couple of weeks I was almost 100 % clear.

Still to this day, I have it on my elbows and scalp. Bad thing about the scalp: it's super itchy and kind of flaky. Good thing: it's not visible. Bad thing about elbows: it's visible; makes me self-conscience; super itchy and flaky; irritating. Good thing: NOTHING. I have tried everything under the sun: topicals, steriods, creams. Nothing works at all. I actually tried the Humira injections and they worked great. With in one week, I was cleared! The day I woke up and didn't see anything on my elbows, I literally started crying. It was such a relief. But anyone who has Psoriasis knows that it's a chronic disease and there is no cure for it. I got off Humira because I thought my Psoriasis would stay away - but it didn't. Then I switched insurance and here I am - present day - still living with visible Psoriasis. Possible side effects of Humira is a lower immune system and contracting TB.

I am going to the Dermatologist on Thursday and hopefully will get some relief for what I have now, maybe get back on Humira. Seeing as how my wedding is in 52 days (ahhhh!!) I would like to be clear of my Psoriasis, even if it just means for the wedding day. So I will write later to let you know what my derm says.

I am writing about this to bring awareness and light to this chronic disease that 7.5 million people live with. I get asked "What's wrong with your elbows?" "What happened?" Even when I tell them I have Psoraisis, they have no idea what it is. I wantto get to a point where people KNOW about it and can even explain it to other people. Psoriasis isn't contagious, Awareness is.

Ever since I got diagnosed (it's also genetic, and my mom had it for a really long time), I am trying to do my best to educate myself and bring awareness and light to this disease. Next time, you see someone with what might look like Eczema or dry skin (even me!) ASK! And don't be scared. The more people who know about it the better. No one knows the causes or the best treatments, so the more people who know, the better.

The National Psoriasis Foundation has a challenge every day for the month of August to bring awareness. My goal is do as many as I can. I have done eight out of the 10 I can do. I will hopefully do more! Keep track here on my blog and click here to learn more!

Psoraisis isn't going to define how I live my life - I define how I live my life.

Jersey Shore = Terrible Excuse

And a waste of TV space and human beings.

I don't care what anyone says about this horrific, absolutely terrible, waste of TV space show. I know what everyone says "It's just entertaining," "it's funny to watch them," BLAH BLAH BLAH. These people are stupid, incompetent human beings and their families should be embarrassed. Who really acts like that?

I honestly am giving them more words then they even deserve, but I need to vent. I don't even know what else to say. I don't have any respect for them, that show or how they act. I get everyone wants their 15 seconds of fame, but not EVERYONE deserves it, and least of all them. Get a life, stop tanning(that's how stupid you are because of how ban tanning really is for you), go to school, get an education - if you have one, use it, stop embarrassing your family (who have come out on TV and expressed their dislike and concern for them), learn how to talk right.. need I say more.

Chris calls it my "holier-than-thou" attitude. I disagree. I'm allowed to have my opinion and so is he. I wont even watch or have that show on. It really is a waste of time and shouldn't even be on.

The Situation. Snooki. Really? Your parents gave you names for a reason. Grow up, become adults and try to contribute to society in a good way.

My Sister has a Big Kid Job!

It's official, my sister, Marina Dreyer is the new second grade teacher at St. Augustine's Catholic School!!! We all know how hard she's worked to get where she is at and we couldn't be any prouder of her.

For as long as I can remember, Marina has always had a passion and love for teaching. That's why I know she is going to be the BEST, CARING, MOST AMAZING TEACHER that school and those children have ever had. You don't become a teacher for the money. You do it because how much you want to make a difference in a child's life and how much you love to teach and educate. Those little second graders will love her so much and they are lucky to have her.

Not only does she love teaching, but also feels that teaching and introducing kids to Christ at a young age is super important for them. You're never too young to learn about the love of Christ. And who better to teach them then my sister.

I only wish I could've been there tonight for the family celebration dinner they had for her. Texas BBQ, family, and homemade dessert from Mariano our cousin from Argentina. Yep, that's a Dreyer dinner. They did call me so I felt I was apart of it a little :) I can't wait to come home and visit her in her very own, second grade classroom, decorated the way she wants!

CONGRATS MARINA - THIS WORLD IS VERY LUCKY TO HAVE YOU AS A TEACHER, EDUCATOR AND CARING, SWEET, AMAZING PERSON. I LOVE YOU!!

And The Results Are In

Christopher Skiles has won another award in the design world: he placed second at the National Association of Alternative Newsweeklies (AAN) awards for Best Cover Design!!

Click here to see the designs and for more information!

I can't even begin to express how happy and proud I am of the incredible work Chris has been doing here. What I like best about him, among many other things, is that he sets goals for himself and he accomplishes them. That says so much about a mans character and traits. I am proud to call him my future husband. Look out design world.... he's only just begun!

Many congrats to Chris and the whole 'ohana at MauiTime! Super excited to see the Best of Maui 3D issue!

Are You a Good Neighbor?

Yesterday was a great Sunday, and I am so glad I went to church, as I am every Sunday.

I worked all day and I wasn't sure if I wasn't going to be able to go to church because of how late it was. Come 4:45, I'm rushing out already annoyed that I may be late to Church. But I get home change really quickly and get to church in time! And I even have time to pray before which I always love doing. It gives me a sense of calmness and serenity. Not think about anything but be present in that moment and connect with God. It's my time and no one can take that away from me.

I was also able to speak to my sister after Church - which always gives me a sense of calmness too. I'll be honest, I got kind of teary-eyed talking to her because we used to go to church every Sunday: teaching Sunday school then sitting right next to each other. It's sad I'm not able to go to Church with her on Sundays, but I know she's only a phone call away! Chris does go with me every now and then and I appreciate it when he does, because he knows how much it means to me.

But the homily really spoke to me.

It was in regards to The Parable of the God Samaritan Luke 10:25-37

In the parable, a Jewish traveler is beaten, robbed, and left half dead along the road. First a priest and then a Levite come by, but both avoid the man. Finally, a Samaritan comes by. Samaritans and Jews generally despised each other, but the Samaritan helps the injured Jew. Jesus is described as telling the parable in response to a question regarding the identity of the "neighbor" which Leviticus says should be loved.

Are we good neighbors? Do we act neighborly? This was the father's questions to us. It got me thinking to us living here and how relevant this scripture was to our lives. We try to act neighborly every where we are and I think we're pretty good at it. Being here, it's a little hard I have to admit. Because all we have is here each other, not our friends or family. Yes, we have made friends here but it's really not the same. We do know our neighbors, which is a good thing. It just made me smile. I try to live by God's word and this was only another little way of God making sure we all are living this way.

You don't even have to be Catholic to be a good neighbor. It takes love, willingness, patience and comfort. God asks us to love him as well as love our neighbors. If we can't show love to our neighbors then how can we show love to God? It doesn't take a lot to go to your next door neighbor, the person who lives across the street or behind you and just introduce yourself and say hi. A little kindness goes a long way. The Good Samaritan didn't have to stop, but he did it out of the kindness of his heart. There should be more people like that in this world. Don't hesitate, don't wait, go and be neighborly. Even if you have lost touch with someone; if you know someone who is going through a divorce; who has an illness; who has lost someone close to them; let them know you are there if they need anything. They will appreciate it a lot more than you know, and you will feel better doing it :)

I leave you with these thoughts.....

"Which of these three do you think was a neighbor to the man who fell into the hands of robbers?"

The expert in the law replied, "The one who had mercy on him."

Jesus told him, "Go and do likewise."

We Left Our Hearts in......

Everyone knows how much we love living here, but we have been here almost a year, so I thought it would be appropriate to write about the things that we think about (miss) back home:

* Family

* Friends

* Buster

* Our old apartment

* Myriad of Restaurants and food: TEX MEX food; BW3's; Chi-fil-a; What-a-burger

* Dressing up

* Night life (concerts, restaurant and bar openings)

* My car!

* The Galleria

* Shiner Beer

* Thunderstorms

The time has gone by so fast, I still cant believe that's it's been almost year of living here. In less then a year we have accomplished a lot of what we planned; experienced things we would've never been able to do; seen things we would've never been able to see; met new people; learn about a new culture. We have honestly grown so much and this was the best thing we could've done before our marriage; yet we know there is a lot more growing to do. It's been a little hard but God doesn't ever give us things we can't handle. We thank him everyday for giving us the patience and love we have for each other.

I've also learned that people here take where they live for granted. It made me realize I definitely didn't take living in Houston for granted and we don't take living here for granted.

Take time to appreciate where you are, who you're with and what God has planned for you.

Maui Film Festival- Films, Fun, Food, Friends

Wow, what an amazingly, delicious, spectacular four days!

I first have to say Thank You to MauiTime for the media passes we received that allowed us entry to EVERY event and film. That's the amazing part. With my love for events and Chris' love for libations.... this was a recipe for success and deliciousness.

First the date and description of the event followed by our ratings of each event/film.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 16 OPENING NIGHT TWILIGHT RECEPTION AT CAPISCHE?

"Capische? owner and award-winning chef Brian Wetheredge will wow attendees with truly unique, inventive and delicious selections complimented by refreshing Stella Artois Beer." This was one of the two favorite events we attended. Complimentary hord'eours and cocktails and our first celebrity mingling. The place was a little small, but the fresh and eclectic food by far overshadowed anything. Christopher was in Heaven with his Stella. To top off the night we met Josh Radnor, Ted Mosby of "How I Met Your Mother." Great and down to earth guy. He has a new movie coming our happythankyoumoreplease - really great and inspiring movie - a must see when it hits theaters. This was part one of the delicious part.

Next, the film Bran Nue Dae. An Austrialian musical comedy. Not the greatest film we saw- super cheesy at parts but kept me smiling at others. This one is a renter if you like musicals. Before the movie, Zac Efron was being honored with the "Shinning Star" award. PLEASE, for the love of god tell me why this child even got one?He has been in THREE, count it, THREE movies, that's it! And he didn't even have a movie in the festival. On a side PR note Maui Film Festival, when you're honoring a star, he is usually in a movie! No picture-proof here because he is DOUCHBAG with a capital D. That's all.

Last up for the night, STARRY NIGHT MOONDANCE "known as the festivals hottest dance party..." you already had us at hottest dance party. We had such a great time! Indulging in more cocktails and pupus (that's appetizers people) and dancing the night away like when we first met, there were smiles on our faces the whole time! This comes to our second celebrity sighting with Dan Byrd of Cougar Town. Chris and I watch the show every night and he is great on the show. So it was a pleasure to meet him. He is starring in the upcoming NORMAN movie. Needless to say, we had a GREAT first night!

FRIDAY, JUNE 18 Film time and Taste of Chocolate (Debauchaery)

Nowhere Boy: "Biopic about the misspent youth of a Liverpool lad named John Lennon who grew up to form some band." I would have to say this was probably one of the best movies I saw at the festival. Great story about the legendary John Lennon. I thought it was going to be more about The Beatles and the musical part of his life, but this was abut his youth and how bad his childhood was his his mom. Just an amazing story. Definitely a theater movie, not a rental.

To finish off our night there was the TASTE OF CHOCOLATE AT THE FOUR SEASONS MAUI RESORT. "MFF's over-the-top event for chocolate lovers." I am there! I could not hold my excitement the entire day! Chris wasn't a big chocolate fan, but the never-ending Stella Artois kept him satisfied, the champagne wasn't a bad touch for me either. Chocolate decadence every where we looked. Chocolate and banana milkshake, nitrogen chocolate shorbet, chocolate fondue with the best lilikoi marshmallows and various fruits for dipping, Cheesecake graham cracker chocolate ball and soo much more. I was literally in chocolate Heaven. This was part two of the delicious part. Not to mention this was our third celebrity sighting with Malin Ackerman, best know for her part in The Heartbreak kid and her upcoming movie happythankyoumoreplease. Such a beautiful and sweet person. Picture-proof soon :)

SATURDAY, JUNE 19 TASTE OF WAILEA- WAILEA GOLD & EMERALD GOLF COURSE

" The crown jewel of MFF's culinary arts celebrations, Taste of Wailea will be presented by Wailea resort's most celebrated chefs and restaurants, complemented by an engagingly robust and delicate assortment of fine wines, refreshing Stella Artois on draft and exotic Maui-tinis from Ocean Vodka" This was my second favorite event and part three of the delicious part. I loved sampling all the food from the different restaurants. Some restaurants I heard good things from, but Chris and I haven't had the time to get to those places and just weren't sure about the reviews. But because of this event we will definitely be dining at MaLa (tried some juicy, fresh fish burgers); a meatloaf dish from Joes was tasty; my favorite was a seared scallop dish from Four Season's restaurant. Chris did not partake in all the deliciousness of the night because he filled his belly with the nastiness that is Taco Bell (while I was at work)..... his loss! Here we also mingled with our buddies Josh and Dan :) The mingling was the spectacular part.

Movie of the night: happythankyoumoreplease "A New York lothario has his life turned upside down in this quick-witted comedy." Chris was super excited to see this movie. And it was pretty good. A feel-good movie, think "Woody Allen"- esk. The most exciting part for Chris was that after the movie, he was able to tell Josh how great the movie was because he ran into him on the way to the restroom. That's pretty neat. Josh was overwhelmed.

Then we stayed for the following movie: Cherry "A virginal teen simultaneously embarks on his college and sexual education." So you pretty much know what you're getting with a premise like that, but it was surprisingly laughable. I would recommend it to those with a sense of humor and still a child a heart.

SUNDAY JUNE 20

A little of a disappointment for me. I had the day off because I was expecting a lot. There is usually a closing night reception and other events. But not here in Maui. They had a couple of films, only one looking pretty good, and NO closing night reception. Move: Cyrus "Your classic tale of boy(John C. Reilly) meets girl(Marisa Tomei) and girl's strange adult son (Jonah Hill)." Yes, I know super weird casting, but it worked. It worked really well, minus the Jonah Hill lack of dramatic acting ability. John C. Reilly was a breakout surprise with his dramatic acting. His connection with Marsia Tomei is very believable. On the other hand, Jonah Hill was nothing to brag about. He needs to just stick to slap-stick comedy.

Since there wasn't any closing night reception, Christopher and I made our own. We took the day to do a little shopping, had happy hour and nice conversation at Kahului Ale House, a wonderful fajita dinner at Koho's (a very local place btw) and then the movie.

All in all, we had one of the most fun-filled amazing weekends/couple of days here in Maui. It was good to just not worry about work, indulge in the finer things Maui has to offer. Which isn't a lot of the time. It reminded us of being back in Houston.

With our hectic day-to-day schedules, take time out to appreciate the things your town has to offer with the company you keep.

I know I do every day.