Merry Christmas

photo courtesy of Life Prints by Tracie

Merry Christmas from the Faithful Family.

Checking in

I'm still alive, just very busy. I forgot how busy little babies keep you. It's amazing how much time in a day can be devoted to just feeding, burping, changing clothes (for us a lot since Macho Man has a tendency to spit up quite a bit) and changing diapers. There have been plenty of days I haven't even made it into the shower! Add to that that my little boy loves to sleep on his Mommy--what's a girl to do? Well, this girl is going to try to not let it stress me out for right now and postpone my desire to go ahead and push for the routine and wean my last baby from wanting to snuggle with me so much. I'm going to try my best to remember that this will all be over before I know it and then my babies won't be babies anymore. sigh

My Macho Man

Introducing Macho Man. He came into this world weighing 8lbs 8 oz. (extremely small for us!) and screaming loudly...until they placed him on my chest. Then all was right with the world. Our lives and our family are complete. Now time to enjoy them.

It's a....

BOY! And he is beautiful and perfect. More soon.

pressure

All I can say right now is "OUCH". Someone's head is causing some serious pain right now!!!

eta: Not in labor...I don't think. I did not sleep well at all last night due to someone having their head as close to the "border" as possible without peeking on out! I have a dr's appointment today at 2:30. Lots of pressure and other issues to discuss, so maybe Baby Faithful is trying to make an early appearance. That'd be my luck considering I actually have my tubal scheduled into my surgery process already! Regardless, those suckers are leaving the hospital tied into a pretty bow!

Final countdown...

7 days, 7 days, OMG, just 7 more days!! Yes, Baby Faithful will be here 7 days from right this moment. I'm a little nervous, not gonna lie. Birdie has been super sweet lately, but wanting a lot of extra Mommy attention and Lovebug seems to even be showing signs of getting ready for the new arrival with the need to act out a little more than normal, but still wanting to be close by. I can't believe we are down to our last week. I'm starting to have those crazy fears wondering if everything will be alright with the baby, wondering how recovery will go, etc., etc. I've been sick for over a week now and I am really hoping that will pass before next week so I can actually breathe in that new baby smell when I get to hold our newest addition. Not to mention, I think of how painful it will be to cough with my incision and it makes my eyes tear up!!

So many other things are going on in our lives right now, too that I feel like we are moving at warp speed. Some of it good, others definitely not good. I will try to fill you in on all that stuff soon and I will try to post at least once more before we bring home baby.

3 weeks and 2 days

That's all the time left until Baby Faithful arrives...unless of course, he or she decides to make an appearance early. Otherwise I will be in surgery by 7:30 a.m November 5th giving birth to this little miracle. Over the course of this pregnancy I have been asked no less than a 100 times "what are you having" and no less than 100 times people have been shocked by my "I don't know. We're not finding out" answer. I have been put in a position MULTIPLE times to defend myself from people who act and treat me like I am absolutely crazy for not finding out. Even my parents, as well as several friends, can't believe we don't want to know. Here's the bottom line. I truly don't care the sex of my child. It makes no difference whatsoever to me. Either way I will love him/her. I won't be giving it back. It was a miracle that I have been blessed with. Ask a woman who is unable to conceive a child if it would matter to her what God would bless her with. Ask a set of parents that have lost a baby to stillbirth if they were concerned with their child not being the "sex that they wanted". When I respond that I just want a healthy baby I'm not saying it for good speak, I'm saying it because I mean it from the bottom of my heart.
Rant over!:)

school projects

Will someone please let me know when school projects became so dang complicated?! Lovebug is in 2nd grade and we are currently working on a project folder that must include a picture/decoration of the animal she is researching, a paragraph of characteristics of the animal as well as illustrations of these characteristics and then a paragraph of the habitat along with illustrations of the habitat. The back of the folder is a list of questions regarding the animal and then there is to be a fictional paragraph regarding Lovebug and the animal (which for her is a flamingo). She has to get up and give a presentation of all the information she has found regarding flamingos. I now know more about flamingos than I ever thought possible. Is this the norm now?

Flashback Friday

Just for you Southern College Girl!!:) This is the shadow back in June--images appear larger than they actually were at the time...that's close to my size now!! Happy Weekend!

Nursery

We are down to four weeks and counting...and still have SO much to do. Just wanted to share a sneak peek of how the nursery is progressing at this time. Hopefully, I can get it all pulled together before Baby Faithful arrives. There is a section of the tree mural missing and when they sent me the replacement the adhesive was on backwards. I have gotten in touch with them to see about a replacement and still haven't heard back.....ugghhh! The crib has been a whole separate set of issues, but I think those have finally been worked out. We are to receive another crib just like this one very soon--which is the last one the company made! Note to pregnant women, if you want a drop side crib they are stopping production on them as the government does not deem them safe. This one in the picture will be for sale as soon as my new one comes in so if anyone is SC is interested just let me know. Still need a glider. Have one in white with custom cushions to match the bedding from when I was pregnant with Birdie. Thinking I am just going to have to "make do" and use it. I originally wanted a coffee stained one to use the cushions on or an upholstered one in there. Time and money are quickly slipping away at this point.

Word to the Wise

When you are in the last few months of pregnancy DO NOT have some (just switched to) Activia yogurt with your granola and berries with a cup of coffee for breakfast. Just sayin'.

Wednesday Wish List

There's so much I'm wishing for right now I thought it'd be fun to put some down to actually read out loud.

1. I wish, more than anything, for more energy right now. I.am.tired. No, make that exhausted. I feel like my last few weeks being Mommy to the just the Lovely Ladies is going down the drain because I don't have enough energy to muster to go out and be the all fun Mommy. It makes me sad.

2. I wish all our house projects would just magically complete themselves.

3. I wish time would stand still for just a weekend. I want to just have time to stare at my girls and memorize their sweet faces. I want to have a date night with Hubby and not feel like it is taking time away from something else I should be doing. I want to cuddle at home with my sweet family and watch movies and eat popcorn and listen to the music of their laughter.

4. I wish the hospital to change their visitation policy before November 5th. Currently, due to the flu, they are not allowing anyone under the age of 19 to come up on the floor. I am NOT happy about that at all. My issue is that the criteria to visit is based off of age and not a general health assessment. Who's to say that the new grandma coming to visit in the room next to me isn't hacking like crazy and has been suffering from flu-like symptoms? We all know people like this and it's not age related at all. Explain to my 3 year old why she can't come and see her Mommy or the new baby brother/sister that she has been trying to come to terms with meeting.

5. I wish the money tree would sprout in my back yard. Enough said.

6. I wish the anxiety that I feel like I am drowning in would wash away.

7. I wish I could find a super cute haircut that wouldn't require a lot of "work" right now.

Is that too much to wish for?

eta: Crap! Tells you how tired I am...I really thought it was Wednesday!

Holy Cow it's been a long time!

I can't believe it's been an entire month since I last posted!!!! So much has been going on that I don't even know where to start. Back to school obviously means back to craziness! Our day to day life keeps me on my toes (which are having a hard time supporting my every expanding waist!). In addition to that we are redecorating 4 rooms in our home as we prepare for the newest Old Faithful arrival, Hubby has taken a new job (can I get a Hallelujah?!), I was working on a very last minute wedding since which I was taken off of the job on the very day that the client owed me the remainder of her balance in full--classy, huh? and I just finished putting together a smidgen of the documentation needed to send via certified mail to said client to support my actual work on her event. Sounds like fun times, huh? Aren't you all jealous? I will try to write a real blog post in the very near future. Thinking, well actually, I'm hoping, that life is getting ready to settle down for a little bit as we enter the eye of the storm.

Flashback Friday

Once upon a time there was a bride...who met her Prince Charming
and in front of God, family
and friends she proclaimed her love for him and happily
became
"The Wife".
Happy 10th Anniversary
Hubby!
I love you more today than yesterday,
but not as much as tomorrow.

Wordless Wednesday

photograph courtesy of www.tiffineyphotography.com

Week in Review

Good grief, it's been a busy week here in the Old Faithful household! Hubby was out of town until Wednesday evening. During his absence we were ladies on the go! Wednesday morning started with us waiting in line for some CJ Spiller for Heisman posters...yes, I waited in line with both the lovely ladies, for an hour no less, for a poster. They weren't supposed to start handing them out until 10a.m., but when we pulled into the Bi-Lo parking lot at 9:05 folks were already walking out with them and the line was already out the entrance and all the way to the road! Ended up walking away with TWO of the little jewels--if it tells you anything, I was offered money for one of them before even making it back to the car. Many, many errands later we finally were home. Nap time missed. Ugghh! By the time Hubby got home the lovely ladies and I were almost ready to walk back out the door to Preview night at the new Children's Museum opening here in the Upstate. It is FANTASTIC!! However, the no nap and all the stimulation= some grumpy girls...including the Wife! Thursday, started with the monthly dr's visit and it's official, Baby Faithful will be delivered on November 5th. I made the doctor go through his calendar until then and go ahead and schedule me. When he asked why that date, being the planner that I am, I let him know that A. it would put Lovebug and Baby's birthday at least a little apart. B. That is a Thursday so it wouldn't disrupt the school week as much and C. I can come home on Sunday and watch the Clemson/Florida St. game--yes, I am die hard! Already thinking of how I can incorporate my orange in my coming home outfit! The rest of the day was spent working on a surprise shower for Tiffiney! Baking, floral arrangements, note cards, all the little things to make it special for such a special person and her sweet baby (who is now on steroids to get her lungs good and strong so she can get off that vent!). Friday I was at her studio all day witnessing the MOST gracious outpouring of love and generosity from people, some of which don't even know Tiffiney. That night her family and I surprised her when we showed up with all her gifts and all the envelopes full of money that folks had given her. It really does the heart good to be part of something like that! And of course, seeing the surprise on Tiffiney's face was priceless! Today has been packing, packing, packing. Now, I'm counting down the last 14 minutes of being 29...to turn 29 again!:) Tomorrow, beach bound!!!
Sorry for the rambling. That seems to be how my head works these days. Worst case of baby brain EVER!

Communication

With all the methods of communication out there today, email, texts, phone calls, facebook, etc. what is your preferred way to communicate with others? I'm not talking about your best friends, but general acquaintances.

that time of year

It's that time of year for me to celebrate another birthday. I remember when I was little and always looking forward to it and adults telling me that when I got older that they would come faster and faster. I thought they didn't have a clue as to what they were talking about. I thought wrong! I had every intention of turning 30 this year, but that will involve some alcoholic beverages to be consumed and since that can't happen with being preggo and all I'm going to hold firm at 29 for one more year. The positive this year is that we'll be heading down to Sullivan's Island with some of our friends and two baby-sitters in tow to enjoy several nights at the beach. The added bonus is that I will get to go out in Charleston on my actual birthday to Cypress--YUM! For all 2 of my readers, if you'd like a copy of my birthday list I will happily forward it to you!:)

opinions please

Latest vendor issue (there seems to be one for every event and I have already discovered who the loose canon will be on this upcoming event). I have a bride whom I made several appointments for. One of these appointments was with a florist. Not my first pick florist, but the first two picks were unavailable. This particular florist I have never worked with before, however she left me a message several months ago wanting me to refer work to her with the pretense that she would do the same for me. A tit for tat situation I guess you could say. She didn't leave a web address for me to look at and at that time I was too busy to schedule a meeting. Without the quick pics to look at I wasn't referring anyone to her. Until now. Bride called and hadn't booked the first thing...for a wedding 3 months away. Date selected? Huge football weekend here. Are you picking up on some of the challenges? Meet with the florist. Not overly impressed, but I figured I could make it work. Mom of the Bride jumps the gun and goes ahead and gives a deposit so we are locked in anyway. My Bride contacts me today to let me know that another event planner contacted her letting her know that she would be helping the florist and wanted to go over the event with her. My thoughts? WTH!! Your thoughts?

Little Miracle

Thought I would update you all on Tiffiney and Sadie. Sadie was born Saturday, July 4th at 11:51a.m. She weighed in at 1 pound 8 ounces and was almost 12 and a half inches long. Tiffiney is doing well all things considered. I took breakfast to her and her husband, Scott, on Sunday morning and she was still on oxygen due to some fluid on her lungs and I think she was more than ready to be done with that. Sadie is just fighting away. Tiff should be discharged today, but Sweet Sadie will be at the hospital probably until her due date of October. Please continue to keep them all in your prayers.

Tiffiney and Sweet Sadie

I'm asking all of you to please say a prayer today for my friend (and very talented photographer) Tiffiney. Tiffiney is the photographer that I've shown on here a couple of times that has taken the MOST precious pictures of the lovely ladies. She is the person that I trust above all else to capture the wonder and essence of my daughters' childhoods on paper so that when the day comes and I'm missing all this I can pick up a picture and see so crystal clear their youth. She came into my life simply as a photographer that a friend of mine had recommended right after I had Birdie. As the years have gone by she has become much more. Now, I am proud to call her a close friend. And for my close friend I ask for your prayers. Tiffiney is 25 weeks pregnant with her own lovely lady, Sadie. Tuesday night/Wednesday morning Tiff started experiencing contractions 7 minutes apart. Wednesday she went to the doctor and that landed her where she is now, in the hospital in preterm labor. At this moment, she is stable and it truly is proof of the power of prayer.

For the Record...

I am an event planner, NOT a miracle worker. While at times it may seem that I can work miracles I am the first to admit that they don't just get pulled out of thin air. Just had to put that out there.

On another note, who watched the Reunion show of the Real Housewives of NJ? Those bi-otches are CRAZY! Can't wait to see part 2.

And of course, the news of the day here in SC, Gov.Sanford and his affair. I'm trying to remember that we are all human and make mistakes. As a spouse I am struggling with that. Why, if you are trying to work on your marriage, would you find it necessary to slip away unbeknownst to anyone to go visit you mistress/former mistress/whatever she is? I feel certain he was keeping an eye on the ongoings of the state from afar, however, what about the ongoings of your family? That isn't something plastered all over the television. What if he had been in a plane crash and his family didn't even have a clue as to where he was? I can sum this up by simply stating that this was a very disappointing revelation today...and David Letterman you can keep all your snarky remarks to yourself.

Saving the best for last: we had our ultrasound today. I almost caved and had the technician tell us the sex of the baby, but I managed to stay strong. Hubby and I both think it's a boy though. The face seems so different than the lovely ladies and the "feeling" hit while looking at it (and I HATE referring to my child as an it). This child looks perfect by everything we saw today and now I am officially excited! Looks, too, like we have a thumb sucker on our hands. Many happy tears were shed!

Which one?

The Kinridge in a sour apple finish

The Carrington in Espresso

The Beatrice in Espresso

So far I've narrowed it down to these three cribs. I like them all, they are all in the same price range, but I just don't know which one I want to go with. Both the lovely ladies had a white crib and I don't want to go that route again. Any input would be greatly appreciated.

*all pictures are courtesy of www.Poshtots.com

snip its

Snip its from today (and maybe some from the past few days)

*Lovebug became an official cheerleader today--cracking up watching her practice her cheers. BTW, when did cheering for a football team include mentioning your manicure, highlights, etc in the cheers? Just wondering.

*The Old Faithful family made an appearance on the evening news. Went shopping for some baby furniture. Hit up a local store that we didn't realize had taken some folks money and then closed it's doors and filed Chapter 7. The local news crew was in the parking lot when we got there and filmed us as we all made our way to the door. Didn't tell us we were filmed and I didn't even know we were on there until one of my neighbors called and asked me if I had been shopping today! I was.NOT.camera.ready!!

*Lovebug and Birdie both got haircuts today. Lovebug opted to get about 4 inches cut off. She now believes that she looks so different that no one will recognize her!

*It's a wedding weekend for me and I have got to find some motivation.

*When pregnant it is best to not give into all your cravings. We had breakfast for dinner tonight (one of my favorites!) and I think I gained 5 pounds in one seating with biscuits and gravy...proceeded to spend the next few hours in pain wishing I could just throw it all up already!

*Hubby's company confirmed even more so today that they suck monkey nuts! And his manager doesn't have the balls that God promised a billy goat. Yes, I said it.

*Two children when bored will proceed to aggravate the t-total crap out of you while picking on each other. Am beginning to think my idea of trying to be more laid back and provide a summer more like one of a yesteryear wasn't such a good idea.

*Patience isn't something I have a lot of right now and I am getting in nesting mode all at the same time. Scary.

Things you didn't know

Saw this over at the Pink Owl and I thought I would copy since I've been in a bit of a blogging funk lately. Enjoy!


What is your salad dressing of choice? depends on the restaurant. If I'm at Outback it's hard to pass on their Caesar salad, but I've grown to love their ranch as well. I love some parmesan peppercorn and I will never turn down some honey mustard to dip french fries in.

What is your favorite sit-down restaurant? Again it depends. Chain restaurant would be hands down, Cheesecake Factory!!

What food could you eat for 2 weeks straight and not get sick of it? This is a toughie, especially for a lady who's preggo, but it would be sushi (and yes, I'm just getting the cooked stuff right now-uggh!) or steak. I know, weird combo that couldn't be more different from each other

What are your pizza toppings of choice?Pepperoni, mushrooms and bacon--well done. Love those pepperonis crunchy!

What do you like to put on your toast? Strawberry jelly

How many televisions are in your house?3

What color cell phone do you have? silver

Are you right-handed or left-handed?Right

Have you ever had anything removed from your body? Besides two very large babies, no.

What is the last heavy item you lifted? Birdie. And that girl sure isn't a feather.

Have you ever been knocked unconscious? that would be a yes

If it were possible, would you want to know the day you were going to die?No way!

If you could change your name, what would you change it to? Wouldn't change it

Would you drink an entire bottle of hot sauce for $1000? Would I be allowed to vomit half way through and could I take breaks to cool the mouth with some bread and water?

Last run-in with a cop? I was in an accident in 1999 and that's the last time--Thank goodness!

Last person you talked to? Lovebug or Birdie

Last person you hugged? Birdie

Favorite Season? Fall with Spring being a close second

Holiday? Christmas!!

Day of the week? Right now Saturdays --love getting up and heading to the Farmer's Market

Month? This one's hard. I love September because football season starts. I love October because the weather is beginning to change, as well as the leaves...and it's Lovebug's birthday and hello, Halloween. I love June because school is coming to an end and means more laid back days are on the horizon and Birdie's birthday takes place.

First place you went this morning? Birdie's room to get her out of her crib. Yes, she just turned 3 and yes, she's still in a crib. It keeps her contained and I can rest at night not worrying that she is going to get up and roam the house!

What's the last movie you saw? Bolt. Saw it today on pay-per-view. The lovely ladies and I are having a bum day and instead of going out in the heat we watched movies!

Do you smile often? Yes, the fine lines are wanting to creep up on me to prove it!

Do you always answer your phone?No. There are times I just don't feel like talking. Doesn't mean I'm mad at anyone or that I don't like them. It just means I don't want to talk. Don't read anything into it!

It's four in the morning and you get a text message who is it? It'd have to be an intoxicated friend. There are 3 of them I could think of that would do this!

If you could change your eye color what would it be? I have hazel eyes, which I feel like you don't see a lot of and I like that!

What flavor drink do you get at Sonic? I haven't been there in forever so I would say just a Dr.Pepper

Do you own a digital camera? Yes, and it's on it's last leg

Have you ever had a pet fish? several

Favorite Christmas song? "Little Drummer Boy"

What's on your wish list for your birthday? Considering it's next month you'd think I'd have a list going, but there is so much that needs to be done to get ready for baby that I'm more concerned with that than anything else. A week at the beach would be fantastic with a facial, massage and pedi while I'm there.

Can you do push ups? No

Can you do a chin up? I wish!


Does the future make you more nervous or excited? Both. Bringing a new baby home always brings a wide range of emotions.

Do you have any saved texts? They aren't saved on purpose, just because I'm too lazy to delete them all

Ever been in a car wreck? a couple plus a moped wreck (when I got knocked unconscious!)

Do you have an accent? Most definitely...and I'm fine with that. I am Southern by the Grace of God after all!

What is the last song to make you cry? I'm sure it was something while riding in the car with the lovely ladies and they were singing. I know these days will be a memory all too soon.

Plans tonight? Hanging with the lovely ladies and seeing what smut television will be available to watch once I put them to bed.

Have you ever felt like you hit rock bottom? Maybe? I don't know.

Name 3 things you bought yesterday? I did not purchase one.single.thing yesterday. Whoo hoo!

Have you ever been given roses? Yes, but Hubby knows that his Wife prefers tulips any day of the week!

Current worry? which one should I list first, hmmmm.... 1. baby and it's health (I tend to be paranoid with pregnancy until the ultrasound where they can make sure everything is developing like it's supposed to) 2. My daddy and his health (my current nightmare is that something is going to happen to him while I'm in the hospital having baby!). 3. Hubby and his job (things are going in the right direction, but you never know)

Current hate right now? probably shouldn't go there

Met someone who changed your life? Yes. The most important was the Hubby which led to the lovely ladies

How did you bring in the New Year? Holy cow, I can't even remember! Must of been spectacular huh?

What song represents you? this makes me laugh, because I'm going to list something you'd never guess..."Freebird"

What were you doing 12 AM last night? I was trying to sleep, but was worried the garage door was still open. Once I got up to check that I had to go around and check all the doors and make sure they were locked. Hubby and Old Faithful hit the road late and I was having a hard time going to sleep to say the least!

What was the first thing you thought of when you woke up? Food!

truths...

I'm becoming beyond tired of the folks who love to proclaim to be professors of truths, lovers of having the truth told to them, doers of all things in the name of honesty. If you are going to profess the truth, tell the WHOLE truth. That includes the TRUE version of BOTH sides of the story so that when people offer to give you an honest opinion and advice they can give it based off of accurate information. And even better, when someone is hurt by your actions and tries to share that with you, don't distort their feelings to make yourself feel better. Playing the "I know you feel this way, but..." game gets tiresome. It constantly discounts another persons feelings as if they don't matter at all. Sometimes the truth includes admitting when you've done something wrong/hurtful to someone and trying to make it right even when it makes you feel like crap about yourself for a little while. And sometimes, the truth is something you just don't want to hear. And sometimes, that same truth hurts a little and can be a tough pill to swallow.

I will step off my soap box now.

beach rentals

Calling all peeps in the know:

Looking for a beach rental on the coast of SC--anywhere from Sullivan's Island to North Litchfield. VRBO is running SUPER slow and is trying my patience right now. I've looked at several realty companies with very little catching my eye. Help!!

quote

"You can't start a fire without a spark"
Bruce Springsteen


Heard this song today and it really hit home for some reason.

3 years today...

The fondant mermaid off of the top of Birdie's birthday cake from Saturday (yes, we get 2 cakes in this house, 1 for the party and 1 for the family). Birdie saw this cake after I scoured the internet and fell in love with it. Notice even the little ring on her hand!!!

Dear Birdie,

Today you turned three. Where did the past three years go? Up until the day you were born I was terrified that I couldn't possibly love you like I did your sister...and then I layed eyes on that sweet cherub face. That was the first lesson you taught me, that a Mother's heart can truly grow to accommodate all her children. Day to day I watch you and you just seem to find a way to always make me smile. I hope I always remember the way you love to snuggle up in my lap and place your little hand on my face so you can just feel my face. I love the way that I can be dressed in icky clothes and be a big mess you will still say how pretty you think I am and how much you like my shirt. I love the way you love to "shake your booty". I love the way your little head fits perfectly in the space between my chin and shoulder and your sweet curls fall down my arm. I love the way you sing "Cowgirls don't cry" and you don't yet understand how true the meaning of the words are. I love the way we sit in your room every night for our moments chatting about the day and you always put on a show so you can watch your shadow dance across the wall. I love that when you aren't feeling your best you will ask me to rub your arm or leg and somehow it makes it all better. There's so much more, but most importantly, I love that I have been blessed enough to call you my daughter.

Love,
Mommy

Hypothetically speaking

Let's just say you get defriended in the virtual world of facebook. Does that mean you were defriended in real life too?

"You may be right"...

..."I may be crazy". Just got an inquiry for a late September wedding and guess who is thinking of going full throttle and doing it? You betcha! The guests will be real surprised that the bride's family paid for an appearance by none other than Shamu the Whale!!

Hodge Podge

How'd I show my Vet that I love and appreciate him today, Memorial Day? I put him on yard duty of course!! Birdie's birthday party is Saturday morning and we are very far behind in preparations so there was no rest to be had today. With that being said, Hubby and I did get to enjoy a date Friday night and we had the BEST meal...and I had my first bloggy friend sighting. I saw no other than the Pink Owl herself strolling down the road with her HPB! I didn't speak to her because I was afraid to go up to a stranger and them look at me like I was crazy if I was wrong about who it was. Two, my IRLF that know NOTHING about my blog were meeting us any minute and I didn't know how to explain Pink Owl to them. Anyone else have this happen to them?!

I've started working on my next event. It is very safe to say that no two events are alike. I should have some pics from my last one by the end of this week and I'm so excited to share them with you. There are two on my website, but one is a little hidden and you'll have to work to find it. www.hullabalooevents.net

I'm sitting here watching some Jon and Kate Plus 8 right now and that is going to have to be a whole other post. Interesting how her attitude towards others has changed now that her husband seems to have grown a backbone and is standing up to her. That's all I'm saying on that subject for now!

Music to my ears

That strong, loud, whooshing sound of a baby in utero's heartbeat is just that, music to my ears. Hubby, Birdie and I went to my doctor's appointment first thing Monday morning and we got to hear that sweet sound. Now, Birdie on the other hand, took to covering her ears with her hands as it was "too loud" for her. Bless her heart, she doesn't know what is in store for her this fall!

Only 24 weeks and 1 more day of being pregnant during this lifetime for me. I'm trying to enjoy it, even through the tiredness and nausea. It's strange knowing beyond a shadow of a doubt that this is the end of this phase of my life. Little sad about it, not gonna lie. Not sad enough to rethink the tubal.

wedding

Another wedding...that's what has occupied my time lately. Disclaimer: I did not put the flowers together. However, I was lucky enough to have creative freedom and when the client and I went to meet the florist she turned it over to me to present all my ideas to the florist and we were allowed to work together to come up with a design for this couple. Can I just say heaven?! I will toot my own horn on this event...it was beautiful!!! We have worked on it since December and the last few weeks it really has kept me busy, but I have learned 2 things: 1. As an event planner, when your client trusts you and your abilities it makes things a million times easier (so if you are looking to hire an event planner, make sure your personalities blend well--YOU WILL BE TRUSTING A BIG DAY TO THEM and need to be able to communicate!) and 2. when you love what you do, it shows. I know that I am lucky enough to be in a position I don't have to work, but I choose to because I LOVE what I do and I think that comes across to my clients. The new baby's upcoming arrival puts a little kink in this business I am/was trying to grow, but I have decided I just have to listen to my heart and believe that God will guide me.

I will post more pics as I get them from my FAVORITE photographer, who I am so excited that I was able to finally work with on a wedding! I'll let her pics do the talking for me!

WTF?!

Real Housewives of NYC rundown:

1. Kelly? Is she on drugs? Is she bipolar? Both maybe?! Bethenny is a MUCH better person than me because I swear to God I would have ended up donkey konging her a$$. Ladylike? No, but enough already with the interrupting, putting yourself on a pedestal and believing basically you do no wrong and transferring all the blame for the tension between you and Bethenny. Team Bethenny all the way!!

2. Ramona, Ramona, Ramona. You are probably the only person that believes you actually look young...and I swear I can't wait for the episode when one of your eyeballs pop straight out of your head and you have to rinse and reset it. I will pee my pants!

3. Alex and Simon. Your kids are like crazy animals. Invest in a double jogging stroller and keep them buckled in while shopping. And really, you should rethink that whole parenting book thing you've got going on.

4. Scenes from the finale look CRazY!! Wow!!

M.I.A.

The Wife and her Girls--Love them!!

Sorry I've been MIA lately. Last Wednesday the Hubby and I flew the MIL into town. (gasp, gasp I know!) Back story, I had planned a girls trip with some of my ladies that I haven't had the opportunity to be with all at once in probably 13 years. Our lives took us down different roads with some of us losing touch for a while and others moving away and others just being too dang busy at times. Then, through the magic of Facebook we as a group of 4 were finally able to reconnect and began working on a get together (which of course took a logistical miracle!). A flight was scheduled for one, days were asked off work, calendars were cleared. All was a go. Then it happened. Hubby got a email from corporate. Guess when the yearly sales meeting was scheduled? The first 3 days of it were during my trip. I was soooo upset! So for the first time ever we asked my MIL to watch our children. I headed to Charleston and Hubby caught his flight up North (I sooo want to tell you where because there is a GREAT story involved, but for the safety of his job I will hold out on that one!!). Us girls enjoyed looking through old pictures, going out to eat, watching Grey's and crying like a bunch of babies, going to the beach (and getting one funky looking sunburn!), lunching out at Poe's and enjoying some of the best fish tacos and french fries, haircuts, dinner at Peninsula Grill (for my very first time and oh.my.word. can you say the very best coconut cake I have EVER thought about putting in my mouth!!!!), rickshaw rides (and races!), bar hopping (the bartender at Henry's sent me some H2O shots so I wouldn't feel left out--sweet gesture, but did I look like I was jonesing for a beverage or something?), fighting off one of the biggest pervs I've EVER come across while out--I had to get very unlady like in getting him away from me!, and lots & lots of talking. I was afraid before heading down that the nausea was going to get the best of me, but I think the Charleston air and old girlfriends is exactly what the doctor ordered. I felt great almost the entire time I was there. Hubby is still gone and won't be back until midnight tomorrow, but the silver lining is he is coming back a day earlier than we had originally thought!!:)

Dear, oh Dear...

Dear New Doggie Groomer,

Today we dropped our family doggie off that we affectionately refer to as Monkey Dog. Hubby forgave the strong stench of cigarette smoke while dropping little Monkey Dog off with you. However, when you call us two hours later to let us know our doggie is ready and we arrange a pick up time A. you should be there at said time and B. please for all things Holy, do NOT, I REPEAT, DO.NOT let my Hubby in on the inside scoop of your monthly "visitor" and how your tampon is not doing what it is supposed to. Put your apron back on and cover the evidence. This will cause you to lose a client. PROMISE.

Sincerely,
The Wife

sick, sicky, sick

I got nothing except that I spent most of the day in bed today feeling like complete arse. A week and a half until the first trimester is over. If I didn't feel so bad I would be sad. This will be my last first trimester. uhhhh...

status update

So, it's safe to say yesterday was a dozy! Hubby and I returned home from the hospital right after 2 a.m. after checking in at 8:45. After they got two bags of IV fluids in him and some medicine for the nausea he was feeling much better. So much so in fact, that the Wife took over his bed to nestle down for the last 45 minutes we were there. In the end he had a gastro something another. Basically, an ugly stomach bug. They were shocked in the ER that we actually wanted to go home and not stay overnight. Hello? Really not my idea of a fun filled Friday night.

Lovebug's rear end is feeling much better today...thank goodness. That girl is an A+ drama mama and I was fearful this would drag out for a bit. With that being said, I can admit today that I really did almost throw up when I saw the splinter. When I say huge, I mean it was right at two inches long! Thank goodness the thing didn't break off in her mad dash to get inside.

And finally, the pregnancy. I was shocked when I found out I was pregnant...to say the least. Eight years ago when I got pregnant with Lovebug it took several months of "trying". Then with Birdie it took over a year and "trying" got even more complicated. I went off birth control last summer anticipating at some point I would have a huge desire to consult the calendar for my make or break days, but instead I decided I was going to turn it over to God and let him decide the path for my family and I. From day to day I would waver as to whether I wanted to pursue this, but I always had faith that God would do what he felt right for us. And so here I am, pregnant for my last time, with my last baby ever and now that a doctor has had a chance to look at my little blessing and say things look just fine, I am happy. Don't get me wrong I still get sad thinking of all the little things that will change for our lovely ladies and us, like Friday night sleepovers in my bed with Lovebug (will she be too old to still want to do that after a baby is settled into a routine?), my morning snuggle fests with Birdie (will her heartbreak at having to share her Mommy with some little needy person?), and the list goes on. But then my heart soars thinking of all the NEW things ahead. And hearing Birdie saying in the car ride home from the dr, "Mommy has a baby in her belly" was a slice of heaven.

No Flashback Friday...

Waiting for my parents to arrive to pick up the lovely ladies so I can take the Hubby to be treated for dehydration...and to have a CT scan as he threw up so hard while I was out picking up dinner that he hit his head and was knocked unconscious for who knows how long! Yes, folks it happened. This is after just two hours earlier Lovebug runs into the house screaming her head off and pulling down her pants...to show me the longest splinter I've ever seen stuck no where else but her rear end! This happened just two hours after I went to the doctor for my yearly check-up...and my first prenatal visit thinking I was only 8 weeks preggo to find out that, no, in fact I am right over 10 weeks!! Yes, you read it all correctly. That is why the Wife hasn't been posting much. It's hard to even concentrate on anything else other than NOT getting sick...and good thing I've been able to not hurl, I could just end up knocking myself the f*c% out (but not up!). I'll post more from the madness soon. Don't you wish you were me right now?

uggghhh!

Birdie officially has her first case of pink eye!! The Hubby is always making fun of me for my fear of the pink eye, but guess I was right this time! This is SO not the best time for the house to be contagious!

Easter was wonderful! Saturday evening we went and had dinner with our friend family and caught up and visited with some out of town friends that I haven't seen in probably 13 years. The kids all participated in an Easter egg hunt...and it of course was hilarious! Sunday morning we got up early to let the girls have time to look through all their Easter goodies and then get ready to head to brunch. It was fantastic!! We didn't make it to church... the Wife has been under the weather lately and knew that sitting still through an entire service would be quite a challenge, especially on Easter Sunday as there are about a million more people in attendance and it takes forever for everyone to do communion. I'll have to make it up this Sunday.

Flashback Friday

It's raining cats and dogs right now and I can't help but think of sunnier days (although I am quite thankful to watch the water levels rise in the nearby lakes!). Here's another picture from last summer by our wonderful photographer, Tiffiney, at www.tiffineyphotography.com. Our original photo session at Folly got rained out/lightening storm on the beach out (which would have made for a great photo, however, I am not willing to risk life and limb for a photo!) so we rescheduled for early the next morning. I'm so happy it worked out that way. We had the beach to ourselves and the weather was perfect.

Happy Good Friday everyone and I hope you all have a Happy Easter!

and my addiction continues to grow.

Hello, my name is the Wife and I am addicted to reality television. The Hills, yes the MTV reality drama series, The Real Housewives of NY and now to add to the mix, the Real Housewives of NJ! Yes, I know that I've stooped to all kinds of low. It's like a train wreck. A really good train wreck and I just can't turn away from it.


Update on my vendor rant: Crazy MM (as I will now refer to her) is now wanting to charge us $255 to move her chairs that we.are.NOT.even.using!! To make it even more wacko, according to her information, there is only 60 chairs in this location!! Really? Wow! My client and her mother are at their breaking point with her so please all pray that I'm able just to hold the pieces together to orchestrate a fantastic event and get it over with. I'm sure it's safe to say that this is NOT a vendor that I will not only never recommend, but given the snarkiness I've received from her I doubt she'll ever recommend me.

Vendor Rant!

I am absolutely about to lose it with one of the vendors that I am working with for an upcoming wedding!! She is the site owner/caterer at a small b and b where the reception will be held. I knew from the first time that I met her that we probably weren't going to jive. Especially when I requested dates that my bride could come in for a food tasting and she about fell over and gave me the, "well, our food is just your traditional Southern food" spill!! After some arm twisting we got that situation straightened out and I got a food tasting, but it had to be done in a back room during another couple's rehearsal dinner and the tasting consisted of the items on their menu. Then I had the whole debate as to what DJ my bride wanted to use. Said facility has a "package" deal they try to sell folks on which includes a DJ and this lady about flipped her lid when she found out that we, in fact, would not be using her vendor. Once again, more arm twisting. Now we are getting into crunch time for the wedding. As in, it's 5 weeks away. My client has had a change of heart about using the caterer's chair covers and we have rented the chivari chairs instead (which I am so happy about!). Since the food tasting took place during another person's rehearsal dinner there was never an opportunity for her to talk to the caterer about the need to make that change on the contract. I told her, "no worries, I will get an updated contract for you". Here I am 6 days later and the lady refuses to send me a contract!! She wants to have a "talk" with me first to discuss some of the items on it. My response is now rather curt with her and I let her know that there would be no discussions until I had the opportunity to look over the updated contract and I could get all my questions and concerns taken care of all at one time. Was I wrong? My logic is, we can't have a two way conversation if I haven't even had the opportunity to look at what we are discussing. What would you do in this situation??!!

And ladies, if you are planning a wedding or any other big event, be very cautious of people that are adamant about you using their, and only their, recommended vendors. I believe that everyone in the industry should have SEVERAL vendors for each area of an event that they can recommend and work well with. Just my 2 cents!!:)

Flashback Friday

Here's the Hubby and I last summer at a wedding reception at the SC Aquarium in Charleston. Doesn't he look sweet?!

Holy...

Catfight!! What in the hell is wrong with those women on Real Housewives of NYC?!! Ramona is about to pop an eye out, Kelly just put the Z in Crazy, Mario needs to learn how to behave as a gentleman. Oh wait a minute, he's not a woman. Maybe he should quit getting in a tizzy like one. LuAnn was not quite as annoying last night and neither was Alex and Simon, whom I had to agree with in their argument with Ramona and Mario. The pictures were their business. No one elses. Period. Did you watch? What did you think?

growing up...

I have been MIA lately and I have no real excuse as to why. I got back from Seattle and have been struggling with a terrible case of insomnia. I have a doctor's appointment in two weeks. I am pretty certain I already know the cause, but I'll wait to see what the doctor says.

The past few days I've been watching Baby Girl. Really watching her. How is she such a big girl already? We are working on potty training and she is getting to where she doesn't even want to put a diaper on. She doesn't sit in the high chair anymore and she has taken up drinking in a "big girl" cup. And the things that she says. Oh how my heart melts. In the morning she loves to crawl into bed with me. She'll roll over and start rubbing my face and will say, "I love you Mommy". Another thing she likes to tell the Hubby and I is that we're her "best friend". So with all these changes I think it's only fitting that I officially change her nickname from Baby Girl to Birdie...because she is ready to start spreading her wings and learning how to fly. Oh to be a proud Mommy, with a breaking heart.

Flashback Friday

Going old school with a photo from either 1979 or 1980 (can't remember which one exactly and my parents never wrote dates on the back of their pictures). There I was in all my glory lined up to do the local town Christmas parade--thankfully I didn't fall in this one like I did a few weeks later in my hometown parade. Yes, I'm graceful like that. I know you're jealous!! The joy of growing up in a small town is there is ALWAYS a parade to be in! I was in many growing up for either dance, cheerleading or pageants. Can't wait for the lovely ladies to have their opportunities to wave at the crowd as they pass by!!

Cutest Groucho Ever!!

Did I miss this Baby Girl or what during the 5 days I was in Seattle visiting the Little Sister?! I have never been away from her that long and this Wife was jonesing to get back and wrap her up in some hugs and kisses (and the Hubby, too!). As soon as I saw the Groucho Marx glasses in a little children's shop in the Queen Anne district I knew they would be the perfect little sercy to bring home to her.

Update on my Daddy: The dr's did the dye test before surgery and decided that at this time the blockages are minimal enough that they are going to continue to treat him with medication. I'm sure there was talk of healthier eating habits and less smoking, but that's the part of the story I may never hear. Hopefully, we can work on healing our hearts in more ways than one now. I know that we will always be a dysfunctional family at best, but I have to at least do my part in letting go of the things I can't control. That is my 2nd quarter of the year resolution!!:)

Flashback Friday

Flashing all the way back to yesterday. whoohoo! (I never said Flashback Friday had to always be old, old!). Anyway, I'm here in the lovely state of Washington with the Little Sister and we took my little nephew and Lovebug up to Mt.Rainier yesterday. The weather was gorgeous--not a cloud in the sky and we got to enjoy some wonderful sights. On our way back down we passed a field and two homes that had no less than 25 elk lingering about!! We quickly turned the vehicle around so we could take some pictures and we just kept spotting more elk. We had already seen a coyote (aka as a cougar according to my sister!ha!) and a black tailed deer. Today we are headed to Seattle to tour the Space Needle and then spend the night. I'm hoping to enjoy lots of yummy food too!!

thank you

Thank you all for your kind words, thoughts and prayers. The situation with my parents is still very raw so I would rather not get into all that. I will say that Daddy goes tomorrow to schedule surgery. Just so happens I will be leaving on a jet plane to go see the Little Sister and the sweetest little nephew in the world. I haven't seen him in a year and a half....(hint,hint!!) and I can't wait to get my hands on him! Tonight I am getting busy packing for Lovebug and myself, getting the house ready for the Hubby and Baby Girl (aka Birdie) to take over and resting as much as possible since I.am.still.sick!! I still owe you a post regarding the fashion show and I will get to it soon I promise. Maybe when I'm wide awake at 5 am Pacific time and the rest of the house is still snug in the bed I will squeeze it in. I have to admit there aren't any good pics from my camera to post...sorry!!

update

Can't write much--head is still fuzzy. Saw the parents today. Cried like a baby when I hugged my daddy.

Prayer Request

Tomorrow I'm going to see my parents...for the first time in almost exactly two years. That needs a prayer in itself, but the actual request is for my daddy. Hubby took the lovely ladies to visit with my parents today as he will do occasionally since I still want them to have a relationship. I never want my girls to be angry at me one day for feeling like I kept them from their grandparents. Anyway, during this visit (which is the first since Christmas) Hubby found out my daddy is having heart surgery this week. This is truly my biggest fear regarding this situation coming to life. I'm beyond words. He needs a stint to be put in as he has two blockages. My father is only 54. I thought these things happened later than this. The good news is, A. it's forcing me to come to terms with the things regarding my parents that I can and cannot control and B. that they are able to go in through his leg, so it should be pretty non-invasive. Lovebug and myself are scheduled to fly out to see the Little Sister on Wednesday and I have to go and see my daddy before then. I'm going to lose it.

Flashback Friday

I'm dreaming of blue skies, blue seas and a salty breeze on my face...of course a fruity cocktail in the hand would be awfully nice too!! Hubby and I, along with six other friends, took a week long vacation to Cozumel 4th of July week back in 2000. Loved it!! Only thing odd for me was not being in the good ole US of A to celebrate Independence Day.

side note: PLEASE excuse the extremely brassy blond locks on my head! I went in for some highlights the week before our trip and they.messed.up...big! I refused to leave the salon after the first round of color and this is what I ended up looking like after the 2nd try. Seeing that I was in a wedding the very next day and I didn't want my hair to start falling out I decided to leave well enough alone.

Sex and the City...

While I'm still feeling yucky today I'm pulling myself up by the bootstraps and heading to the Queen City for a charity fashion show. The featured piece? The wedding gown that Carrie Bradshaw donned for her wedding to Big!!! A girlfriend and I are heading up early to help with ticket sales. After we finish our work post we will be people watching in the VIP section. This Wife is super is excited!! I am taking the camera and will try to get some pictures to post.

side note: How many Halls do you think a person can consume in one day before it's harmful to their body?! If it weren't for the Invisalign I would have one in my mouth nonstop right now--that can't be good for you!

Not Now!

Guess who's sick? You got it! The Wife. Of course I am. It only happens at the worst possible times! I have the baby shower here this weekend to prepare for and Lovebug and I fly out next Wednesday to Seattle to see the Little Sister. NyQuil isn't even bringing relief! uggghhh!

side note: I went to the meeting last night (snotty nose self and all!) and I really liked it. I've got one other meeting with the Children's Museum here that I've thought about joining before I make a final decision. It's one or the other for me as I cannot, as much as I try, produce more time to get to everything I want to do. I'll keep you posted.

Ramblings

Don't have anything good for you today. Just a bunch of ramblings about my comings and goings lately. Last Friday I was invited to my very first book club ever (we read The Lucky One by Nicholas Sparks. recommend it if you are looking for a easy read. has a slow start for me, but can relate to the soldier, because, hello Hubby is a Veteran and the BIL). I was a little nervous at first as I am on the shy side when I am put in a room full of folks I don't know and I will be expected to be in the spotlight with all eyes and ears on me. HOWEVER, there was a lot more wine drinking and food eaten (which led to recipe swapping) than "book talking". This my friends is the club for me!

Saturday morning I was awaken by Baby Girl (who is starting to take to the nickname Birdie--more on that later!) at the spry hour of 5:15! WTH!? I had just gotten home at 12:45! Thankfully, Lovebug's soccer practice was cancelled due to the crappy ole weather and I got to hang out and lounge for a bit before a Mommy/Daughter day running errands with Lovebug. That child was in some serious need for some new tennis shoes and we just made a day of it.

Sunday aka the day of rest....I had to go to the grocery store for our week's supply. I did this when.every.other.tom.dick.and.harry were making a run for their milk and bread! Good times? I think not! After fighting the crowds and running in the icky sleet/rain mix I was ready to come back home and nestle down. Positive note for the day--I saved right at $40 in coupons! Love it!!

Today school was cancelled because of the said icky weather which ended up dropping around 5 inches of snow on us as well and we woke up to no power! I thank the good Lord above for gas logs, gas hot water heaters, and a gas stove. Hubby made us all a fantastic steak, red bell pepper and goat cheese omelet and we enjoyed coffee from the french press! Now the power's back on, looks like school is a go tomorrow, the white stuff is melting away and all is right in the world!

Tomorrow brings the Junior League Open House which I have decided to attend. I want to make a decision on joining after I get a feel for the group. I am also in the "I'm hosting a shower in my house this weekend" mode which means LOTS of running around for me! If you all have read this far, bless you! Hope I didn't bore you to tears! It'll be better next time (or the time after that!), I promise!

Mother Nature

Dear Mother Nature,

While the snow you are bestowing among the Upstate of my lovely state is quite beautiful, I believe Ms. Nature you may need to take a look at a calendar. Mine says March 1st, which logically means we are past the point for such winter weather. My tulips have begun pushing their way up through the ground. My cherry trees are starting to form little buds. Add to that, this is the busiest week I've had since the holiday season and well, this area is known to completely shut down at the first sign of winter weather. You must stop this madness!

Sincerely,
The Wife

Thankful

Yesterday I heard God speak to me. Really. Like he was whispering in my ear. I have felt God plenty, but never like this. It lead me to do a random act of kindness for a stranger without them ever having a clue as to who did it. Better, Lovebug was with me to participate. I'm thankful that I was able to afford this opportunity. I won't share anymore than that about it as I want the purity of the act to remain just that, pure. But if you are in a position to perform a random act of kindness: just do it! Your heart will thank you for it.

Flashback Friday

Fall 1992, Miss. My-High-School beauty pageant. Are words necessary? There's a great story I could share here about this particular pageant, but I don't know what lurkers are out there so I will stay mum on it. One guess which one is the wife: I love the song "Lady in Red".

and I seemed to have a love affair going on with a bottle of hair spray!!

Considering it

I need your help ladies. I'm contemplating joining the Junior League. I need input from any of you ladies out there that have any experience with it. In our area they have MANY opportunities to volunteer, which I've been very interested in, and I think it would be a great opportunity for me to meet some new folks. Broaden my horizons, so to speak. The only problem for me would be how much actual time would I be required to commit to. My schedule, like so many others, has it's ebbs and flows. There would be times when I could volunteer all kinds of time, but there would be other times when folks would feel like I had fallen off the face of the earth. And if I do this I want to love it, not just do it to do it. HELP!

Mean Girls...

I'm sitting here watching the Reunion Show on the Real Housewives of the OC. I find striking similarities between the "mean girls" of this show, and it goes without saying who they are (and if you don't know --Vicky and Tamara), and some of the women I've come across in my own life. Always able to lash out and say what they want to and about you, but God help you if you have something to say to them. Or even less confrontational, you just try to seperate yourself from them--not allowed unless it's on their terms. I could keep listing the things here, but I won't. I just tell myself in these situations to be the better person and rise above. And try to keep the toxic-ness out of your life.

Make a Wish

Marion Square, Charleston, South Carolina. After a wonderful breakfast at Hominy Grill on Sunday morning we headed over to see what was going on with some of the Southeastern Wildlife Expo activities. We had to take a brief stop for wish making.

Lovebug, I hope all your wishes come true.

preview

Our lovely ladies running off some energy on the College of Charleston campus while we were in Charleston this past weekend.

The Bachelor

Just watched a little bit of The Bachelor and have to ask, what in the world was that sound when he and Molly were in the bathtub? Molly looked a little embarrassed by the "poot" esque sound of it all...she obviously does not have children yet.

Will post more later about our Charleston trip.

Flashback Friday

In honor of the warmer days we have had lately and in hopes of an early Spring here's a flashback that includes (almost) all of my most favorite things: My lovely ladies, ice cream, rickshaw rides and warmer weather...in Charleston no less. The only thing that is missing is the Hubby, who was taking the picture. We head back to Charleston tomorrow to do a little of the Wildlife Expo, a Valentine's day carriage tour, some shopping and dinner at one of my oldest friends homes. Now if the wonderful weather they've been having would hold out for one more day...

Wine O

This weekend our Wine O group got together for the first time in a very long time. The purpose is for everyone to bring a bottle of wine to introduce to the group and for the opportunity to meet new people as we are always adding to the invitation list. In the business of running around and helping set up someone failed to eat. Yet this same someone still consumed several glasses of wine. This same someone and her girlfriend, a former Clemson cheerleader, thought it would be a fantastic idea to start doing cheerleading stunts. Now today that same someone was sent a picture of her falling in the midst of attempting this stunt. The thing is she was wearing a cute little dress which was cut on the short side. Someone is thanking the good Lord above not only for underwear, but for very dark tights. And now that same someone needs to nurse a HUGE bruise on her knee while contemplating the pros and cons of finally deciding to act her age. hmmmm.....

On Empty!

My creative juices are officially on empty. I need to get my mojo back! Help!!

Go vote...

at www.iloveswmag.com for #31. It is an ABSOLUTE horrible picture of myself, but it was all in fun and games!!!!

updated

www.hullabalooevents.net. Check it out. A couple of new things on there. Still needs more tweaking, but it's starting to finally get to where I want it. Tell me what you think. I appreciate all honesty.

Little Sister

Dear Little Sister,

Today I reach all the way across this great country of ours and wrap my arms around you. Today I am a shoulder for you to cry on. Today I strive to make you laugh at least once. (I may even aggravate you on purpose just to divert your mind!) Most importantly, today Little Sister, I say a prayer for you and your family that Sweet P's absence goes by quickly, that he comes back home to you safely and that each day you view a piece of him while watching little Sweet P.

I love you,
Your Big Sister

What in the world?

Today I was browsing online looking for a baby shower cake to go along with a certain theme I have in mind. Browse. See a few that I like. Keep browsing. Then I found it. THE cake. Brace yourselves ladies. I mean it...brace.yourselves. And if you are drinking anything go ahead and swallow. It's a...well, I just let you see for yourself.









Every time I look at this I can not help but laugh! I visualize what it'd be like to be at/host a party and this be the cake served. Think about your friends...and THE cake. Me's thinking Olivia's "friends" don't likey Olivia after all.

eta: (just know that I'm sitting here laughing with tears welled up in my eyes!) I thought I should add that this photo was found on flickr. And what do you think the guest thought that got the vagina area as their piece? I'm pretty certain that would be the day the Wife would decide to turn down a piece of cake!!

And if any of you are thinking I'm a little "off". You're probably right. Especially tonight. Hubby and Old Faithful are out of town and Baby Girl kept me up ALL night last night. Hell, who am I kidding? I'd find this hilarious any day of the week!

Real Housewives

Are you ladies watching this? I am going to go ahead and put it out there. Usually Vicky really gets on my very last nerve, HOWEVER, I completely agree with her about how Jeana's children treat her. And if one of the lovely ladies ever tries to get so brave as to use that sort of language with their mother. Well, let's just say they better start saying some prayers. Shane, the F-bomb on your mom for being excited for you? Is it really necessary? And Colton? Rude to one of your mother's friends? Rude, Rude, Rude!!!!! These gentlemen obviously need to spend a little time in a Southern State and learn something about how we respect our elders. Just sayin'.


eta: physical threats to anyone, let alone your mother? SLAP HIM JEANA --NOW!!!!!!

eta: I realize that I shouldn't promote violence. No comments about it please!

Penny!!

I just got your comment! I'm so glad you are still out there. I was beginning to wonder if things had gotten out of control with the neighbors and I needed to send a search and rescue team for you!! I don't know what your situation is, but I am desperately hoping you are alright and that you come back to the bloggy world soon. You can send me your address too if you would rather keep in touch that way.
love,
The Wife

Live from...

my own computer!! Positive? It's actually charging. Negative? It's already shut down on me once for no reason at all. Keep your fingers crossed that I get all the kinks worked out and I can finally be free from the security restrictions on Hubby's computer!! And since I can, I am finally posting a picture that I actually took myself! This was the day after Christmas in Atlanta. Over a year ago when we went to NYC for Thanksgiving we had thought about taking Lovebug to American Girl to get her a look like me doll. Well, Lovebug had an emotional breakdown of sorts and there was no way the Wife was going to go in that store with her behavioral issues. That's when Hubby and I decided Lovebug needed to save her own hard earned money for the prized possession. Dollar by dollar, bit by bit that little lady saved her money with one goal in mind. The catalog would come and she would thumb through it time and time again until they were falling apart. She had picked out all her "must haves". For her birthday this year she got herself a substantial little gift card from one of her grandparents to put towards her purchase. The day after Christmas we headed to Atlanta under the pretense we were doing some post-holiday shopping. At the Cheesecake Factory there she spotted a young lady with two of the coveted dolls and I had to make up a little story about Santa probably brought them to her. I was so excited, because I knew she was going to be absolutely ecstatic when we made our way to the store. As we make our way through the mall she finally spotted the store...it.was.fantastic!! Some folks thought we were crazy making a child her age save so much (and yes, it's a LOT when you are talking about a doll!). I think the year of waiting and saving and ,in the end, purchasing it herself was very satisfying to her. I was (again) moved to tears by my daughter. Seeing the excitement and pride she felt was a very powerful thing for me.

a favor

Could you all go over to Happiness and send my little sister some love. Her Hubby heads out for yet another deployment in less than a week. And to remind you that is the 6th, yes 6th, deployment. I could so easily go into a rant right now about the events that have taken place this week that basically counteracts the work and efforts of so many of our servicemen and women. But I will refrain. Instead I am choosing to put that energy towards MY family that has chosen to make a personal sacrifice for this country. I will put my energy towards holding my sister up during this time. I will put my energy towards saying daily prayers for my BIL that he doesn't get injuried...again. I will put my energy in trying to be tolerant of those whose opinions aren't the same as my own.

Love you Little Sister and I will be out to visit you soon and will hopefully bring you a ray of Southern Sunshine during this time!! And Sweet P, thank you...and try not to get gimped up on us this time!:) Love you too!

Flashback Friday

Noooo, the computer is NOT back from Best Buy yet. It is now in the process of being shipped back from the manufacturer to Best Buy. Cross your fingers it is A. in full working order and B. still has all my saved information on it! With that being said, this is a picture of the ceremony of my December bride. She put it on Facebook (or as I affectionately like to call it, Crackbook) and I downloaded it onto the Hubby's work computer. A no-no? Yes, I'm sure. But I wanted to be able to finally share a picture. This church was BEAUTIFUL!! The photographer could have done so many great things with it. If you are ever looking for a photographer in the Greenville area send me an email and I can recommend some wonderful people to you and I can make one reference as who I, personally, would not use. Either way, I think the wedding itself was fantastic and from all that I've heard from people, the guests all had a great time.
Happy Weekend!!

I'm so excited!

Tomorrow I head to Atlanta for the launch party for Southern Weddings magazine (if you are there and spot me say hello!) and I am so excited. But...I am nervous too. Remember I am a newbie to this industry. There are going to be folks there that have done this ALOT longer than I have. It's times like this I have to fight the inner dialog of my shy girl self and just remember to breathe, relax and not let my nerves get the best of me. I'll post for all of you (without pictures because Best Buy still has my computer hostage!) when I get back and tell you how fabulous the party was! Cross your fingers that my shyness doesn't get the best of me!!

And before I forget: Penny where are you?! I went to your blog the other day and you had vanished! What's going on? Please come back soon. I miss reading about the new life you are etching out for yourself in the new home.

CJ and giggles

Wanna little giggle? Peek over at http://momentscaptured4u.com/blog and scroll down just a little. It'll make you laugh I promise!

On another note, how excited are you about Mr CJ Spiller deciding to forgo the big pay out of pro football and sticking it out one more year at Clemson. I am beyond words excited about this! And poor guy, he has undoubtedly taken a stance against his mother with his decision. We listened to the press conference in the car today and when asked about the stress it's caused you could hear him choke up. I just wanted to stalk, I mean, hug him and tell him in the end it will all work out. Here's to not selling out, for following your heart (even though it was obviously very difficult) and to getting this gentleman in the running for the Heisman next year!!

Happy Birthday!

Just wanted to give a shout out to one of my old roomies and great girlfriends and tell her Happy Birthday! Visit her over at http://2nicholsongirls.blogspot.com and give her some birthday wishes!

Edward

Since I last posted I read the ENTIRE Twilight book. Can I just say, "monkey nuts, I'm in love with a vampire" all over again. and yes, monkey nuts is a phrase that I throw out there in real life conversations, cause I'm a little off like that! She could write ten more books for this series and I honestly don't know if I'd ever get tired of reading them. I feel a little silly gushing about a teenage book, but holy crap, the descriptions she uses you just can't help yourself!

I also re-read Where the Red Fern grows after Lovebug finished it. I cried more than she did!! Actually reading it for her wasn't as heart breaking as I thought it would be. However, when she would try to retell it she would get all choked up. I, on the other hand, went to bed two nights ago with an awful headache due to all the tears!! Go figure!

And in keeping with my downright hatred at the time for Best Buy: I STILL HATE BEST BUY! QUIT HOLDING MY COMPUTER HOSTAGE! IT IS TIME FOR IT TO COME HOME!!
and P., it is an Acer--sorry! I haven't had any real problems with it though until I sent it in to get the whole charging thing taken care of. Hope that makes you feel better!!

Naptime

I let Baby Girl lay in bed with me so we could enjoy an evening nap together today. She napped and I layed beside her watching as she slept. Feeling my heart ache with all the love I feel for her. It's those moments when I am the most surprised at how much you can love another human being.

not again!

So guess who's computer got sent back to the manufacturer today? Yes, the Wife's. Guess who hates Best Buy even more and has a growing hatred for the manufacturer of Acer computers? Good job! Yes, the Wife!

Hubby leaves tonight to start back with the business of traveling. He won't be home until Friday. Lovebug started back to school today. I think I'm going to take back the statement where I was ready to get back to a routine. I think I may go into routine overload.

Sidenote: We bought Lovebug Where the Red Fern Grows for Christmas and I am anxiously waiting for her to get to the end of it so we can discuss it. She is now on page 190. Some folks were shocked that I bought her this book, but who doesn't remember the first time they read it? It is still, to this day, one of my most favorite books and I was just excited that she was finally able to read it. Bless her heart though, she is going to cry like a crazy person during the whole last chapter!!

fingers crossed

Going back to Best Buy with the computer tomorrow. Cross your fingers ladies that I don't lose every bit of self control with either them or one of the Geek Squad employees.

Ok, got the one sentence out of the way. Tomorrow it's back to the daily grind of school activities. Alarm clock is set--ugghh! It'll be nice though to get back into a routine. I think we all need it.

Got a new bride and guess what? She's one of Dabo's neighbors!! I had to tell her my stalker stories, which thankfully she got a huge kick out of. She and her mother invited me to come by their house...I really don't think they know what they've gotten themselves into!! What if he's a guest at the wedding?! I will have a professional photographer there to document my stalky ways!! Could be interesting.

thought

How many times do you think I have to mention Best Buy, Geek Squad or Verizon in my blog for it to show up on google in a search? Wonder if they have people who look this stuff up online? I'm just going to throw a sentence in every post here for a while about them--it may be a non-sense sentence, but considering that I'm dealing with a bunch of non-sense it won't matter. I have cooled down a good bit in the past couple of hours. At the end of the day the reason I got so upset is because (besides suffering from computer withdrawals while Hubby travels) I need the services of both my cell phone and computer. Not for just the simple entertainment of personal needs, but also for my business. I work from home. My cell number is my contact as well as my business email, which I will not have access to this week since Hubby will be on the road again. I also manage my own website. I need to update this website to add new information and pictures. This is really putting me in a pickle and my patience is really wearing thin. But enough already. Tomorrow is a new day and AGAIN we will deal with it.

I realized after my rant I never posted about NYE or any post Christmas festivities. Whooh did we have fun for NYE. Went to a friends house to enjoy some margaritas and play the Wii. I cannot tell you (how many margaritas I had) how sore I was the next day after boxing!! What a workout! I keep telling Hubby we need to get a Wii, but I think we would become two worthless human beings---with great bodies.:) We spent the night with our friends as to not drink and drive and not be on the road with other idiots that decide to drink and drive.
The next morning we got up and headed home to start our beans for the traditional New Year's meal. You know the one. Black eyed peas, collard greens, some pork, and cornbread. It's supposed to bring money to you in the new year. While we aren't rolling around in beds stuffed with money every night we are definitely blessed. We also had to get ready to watch our Tigers play. That didn't quite go as planned. Still love them though and am looking forward to see what next season brings.
On the 2nd we were invited to an Oyster Roast, which is one of my favorite things in the world! Left Baby Girl at home with a sitter while we took Lovebug with us. We had the best time and the caterers that did the food really knew what they were doing! Yummy!! Yesterday both lovely ladies went with us to the Clemson basketball game. Lovebug gets to go with Hubby every year for one as a "date". Baby Girl and I decided to tag along for this one. It was the first time taking her and she kept talking about how "awesome" it was! I loved it! On our way out we saw the Tiger Cub and had the opportunity to pose for a quick picture--not that I can show you now, but I will soon, promise!. Baby Girl was a little scared of him, but of course, Love Bug was all about it!!
I feel like we were at full speed this entire break. I'm almost looking forward to setting the alarm clock and getting back into my regularly scheduled life. almost.