Happy Birthday's and a Puppy too!

Yesterday was my 26th birthday and I have to say it was pretty good indeed. As I've gotten older, I've found that I don't much like getting suprise birthday presents. Its not that I'm not completely grateful for whatever I get...I just really like to know or have an idea of what I'm getting on the front side.

My mom got me a really great 3 piece patio set for the patio that we built earlier this summer. If you know me, you'll know how long I've been looking for a set so that I can actually enjoy the patio instead of just looking at it as we enter the house. Now all I have to do it get it put together.

My dad really came through and helped me renew my cosmetology license. I have to admit that I've sort of just let this go and haven't renewed it in a few years. I'm just grateful that there is a grace period for such things and that no additional school or testing is required. This license is essential because in 3 days I will be working at Salon Ulta.

For my birthday and Beth(Dan's Sister) birthday, we went shopping in Branson for the day. This was made possible by Dan's Mom, Debbie. I was given the chance to be part of this tradition last year and have to say it is a truly fabulous present. I got some MUCH needed clothing for the new job, as well as some really cute stuff to wear on the weekends.

But the best present, by far, came from Dan. For years I've been saying that I wanted a puppy. Well, Dan's response was always when we get a house...and then when we get a fence. I was always a little disappointed, but understood. So let me tell you that when he suggested I could have a puppy for my birthday I was a little shocked! I think I told him I didn't believe him and he just kept telling me yes. When it finally sunk in, I didnt waste any time to start looking. There has only been 1 type of puppy that I've wanted since we started dating pretty much. That is a puggle. What is a puggle you might ask? Well it is a part Pug, part Beagle, and completely the cutest thing in the world. I lucked into finding a breeder outside of Purdy, MO who was selling Puggles for an AWESOME price. I knew at that moment is meant to be!

So I would like to introduce the newest member of the Carter Family...

                                                        This is Lola!

More about bringing Lola home and adjusting to our new life a little later...

It's Ulta!

So for the last 3 years I've been working full time at Sam's Home Office. And while I like what I do and am glad to have steady income, my first love has always been doing hair. I normally have people come over to the house after work and sometimes on Saturdays, and have turned our 3rd bedroom into a "salon". Yes its very convienent, but sometimes more work when I have to rush home to make sure the house is picked up before an appt. Lately I've been thinking about going back to work part time at a salon. However the right time/right salon never showed itself...until now.

Soon I'll be working part-time at Ulta in the Promenade Mall. If you've never heard of Ulta, its ok, neither had I before talking to Jenn. Basically it is a mega-store that has everything from makeup, fragrances, a full hair salon, and everything spa related. Check out their website http://www.ulta.com/, and I'm sure you'll agree it looks incredible.

I am super excited to get to do something that I absolutely LOVE, but without having to sacrifice the career I have going. And as a bonus I get to work with an amazing stylist and dear friend again.

I think this is just what I need to put a spring back in my step! And as an AMAZING bonus I get discounts on all product! Heck yes!