Old Faithful

Monday, Monday

2012-01-23T08:33:00.002-05:00

Rainy Monday = starting the week off with zero pep in my step! It comes on the heels of a great weekend that included a girls night out to dinner and to the Luke Bryan/Jason Aldean concert (even if you don't like country, you should take a look at Luke Bryan--he's super cute!) and a night in with the Hubby on Saturday watching "The Help". The two nights were completely different, yet both were completely perfect.

Comings and Goings

2012-01-18T19:47:00.002-05:00

What's going on in this Faithful house? Oh, just the usual. 3 days of dance in the evenings, 2 school club meetings (which means I get to sit in the pick up line twice on those days!), room mom duties, etc., etc. This year I'm striving for balance. Last year was a whirlwind with so many weddings to do and other work obligations that I just want "balance" this year. I want to focus on me a little bit. I want to have one holiday weekend that doesn't include a wedding! (I somehow managed to schedule lots of those last year!) I want to work out. Yes, I want to work out. My motivation there is that I will indeed be walking in another 3 day this year (more on that to come!). I want to have time to organize my house. I want to take a spontaneous trip or two. I want to spend some time with my friend family that I have neglected this last year. I still want to rock out a wedding or two, but just make it more balanced with all the other aspects of my life.

People are crazy....

2011-11-23T17:53:00.000-05:00

and, unfortunately, I am related to the craziest ones of all.

This and That

2011-11-18T21:30:00.003-05:00

What's been going on around here? Let me break down the past 6 weeks for you:
*2 weddings to work
*a trip to Disney
*the decor design and implementation for the entire 4th grade Halloween party....the day after Lovebug's bday, days after wedding number two and the same day we left for Disney!
*trip to American Girl in ATL
*2 birthday celebrations--Lovebug and Macho Man
.....and the list goes on, and on, and on.........I.am.tired. BUT we have made some fantastic memories and my weddings were fantastic!

Up in here!

2011-11-14T18:13:00.001-05:00

My kids done lost their minds up in here, up in here! Gonna make for a long week!

Just Because

2011-09-26T22:05:00.002-04:00

On the job, I sometimes run into some odd things. This took the cake. And yes, I'm weird for climbing into the casket and having my picture taken.......but it did make me laugh!

One More Day

2011-08-15T08:34:00.002-04:00

Today is our last day of summer break. One more day until Birdie enters the ranks of "big girls". Sigh.

What I've learned this summer:

Lovebug likes to have scheduled activities every.single.day. Seriously. She attended golf camp,
dance camp, basket ball camp, VBS and was still bored on our "off" days.

Birdie is the exact opposite. She could stay at home and be as happy as can be (unless of course, her sister is playing with one of the neighbors and then she insists on tagging along!)

Macho Man is just a wild man. Cute, but wild.

The beach makes everything better. Even rainy beach days.

Having a true "friend family" is a blessing beyond compare.

Pajama days are fantastic (I already knew that, but it was reaffirmed)!

I actually like the Harry Potter books (however, I am currently reading book 4 and it is taking me forever to get through it!).

Taco Boy in Charleston is worth a little drive out of the way to eat lunch!

The biggest thing I've learned is that time passes too fast. My babies are only little once and I want to enjoy it more. I contemplated closing my business for a little bit, but my heart ached at the thought. The happy compromise I came up with is a more stringent guideline for the fewer clients I agree to work with. No, I won't be able to say I've got 30 weddings this coming year, but honestly, I never wanted that to begin with. It's a boutique experience I'm providing not a W*l-M@rt mass production. Crossing fingers this compromise brings me peace.

Summer Break

2011-06-08T15:35:00.003-04:00

Last summer I didn't take much time to plan many activities to keep my children busy. To prevent a repeat of summer boredom I have booked several activities for this year, but they each only last a few hours each day. We are going tomorrow to sign up for the library's summer reading program and I have already looked into the summer $1 movies, but I want to do something "different". Suggestions, please?

Conclusions

2011-06-06T21:26:00.003-04:00

Lately, I have come to a couple of conclusions about things:

1. While I like a maxi dress, I hate, hate, hate seeing someone wearing one and it completely dragging the ground. For some reason it just grosses me out and all I can think about is how dirty the hem is!

2. People will take as much as you give.

3. End of school year is wack-o crazy! Some people wonder why I choose not to take clients during this time of year more than I ever and I remember why!

4. Birdie may make me eat my words about never being a competition dance mom. That girl loved having her time to shine on stage. During her recital finale, I thought they may have to get out the 'ole hook to get her off stage.

5. Last, but certainly not least, people need to discipline their children. Seriously. I'm not talking about beating them, but disciplining them. I was grocery shopping in Publix yesterday and finally just had to check out and leave without finish shopping! A little boy and his mother and grandparents were shopping too. After watching him run crazy, the final straw was when he climbed.into.the.milk.display. I'm not kidding! After 3 children one thing I can tell you about parenting, children like boundaries. It may not seem like it at first and yes, it is more work to not give into your children and hold strong. But years down the road your children will appreciate all that extra work you gave to raising them.

Wordless Wednesday

2011-06-01T23:47:00.001-04:00

Birdie's Birthday

2011-05-31T21:53:00.002-04:00

Tonight I put to bed my precious little four year old baby girl. Tomorrow she wakes up a big five year old girl.

I feel like this is such a milestone birthday. Past the cusp of the baby years. Full speed ahead to the "big kid" adventures that lie ahead.

Birdie was the baby that brought me many tears....before she was ever conceived. My heart longed for her before she was mine. I was so impatient in my days waiting for the blessing to be her mother. I knew my family wouldn't be complete without another little baby to keep Lovebug, Hubby and I company. I can still remember the morning I found out I was pregnant with her. Lovebug had a "sleepover" with me so Hubby had slept in the guest bedroom. I snuck out of bed to take the test, heart beating, praying and hoping that finally this test was different than all the previous ones. In those brief moments you make all kinds of wagers with God. Begging, pleading. And there it was. Positive. And nothing has ever been the same.

Happy Birthday, Birdie. I'm enjoying having this opportunity to watch you learn how to spread your wings and fly. Many new adventures await you!

Wordless Wednesday

2011-05-11T14:25:00.000-04:00

Wordless Wednesday

2011-05-04T07:29:00.002-04:00

Happy (belated) Easter!

2011-04-25T17:43:00.002-04:00

We spent Easter at the beach. I watched my kids run, laugh and play and it hit me, that I am so very thankful God gave us his only son to die for our sins. As a parent, it's beyond my comprehension to have to do such a thing. Me dying for them, could do in a blink of an eye. Having to give one of them to die for myself and others, makes my heart ache and tears well up in my eyes just imagining it.

Worst

2011-04-20T19:50:00.002-04:00

I think I'm the worst blogger ever. Seriously. I keep meaning to write something and then after dinner is over and kids are in bed and I have sent out a couple dozen work emails I am just pooped.

Or just too pooped to write something witty anyway. Watching reality tv? Not too pooped for that.

I could write about Birdie always talking about how she "hopes the paparazzi isn't there" wherever we go. Or how just today, she talked about options for the name of her album (and yes, she referred to it as her album).

I could write about how Lovebug is already mapping out her performance in next year's talent show. (Actually, she is obsessing and it is starting to drive me a tad crazy!) Or how she is 99.99% certain at the age 9 that Harvard is her college of choice. Or how she already knows that she would like to get married in Charleston and have some sort of event at Poe's. I can't fault her for planning ahead. She is my daughter after all.

Then there is Macho Man. The baby. I could write paragraph after paragraph about how much he is changing and how my heart aches about the fact that this is my last baby. (Of course, it doesn't ache enough to make me want to do it all over again!). I could tell you tales of Macho Man getting his first hair cut, "reading" his books, all the words he is trying to say and his general daily antics. I could also share with you that he suffers from a Jekyll and Hyde personality.

I could fill you in on how the Faithful dog that has been part of our family for 7 years left us just a few short weeks ago to go to doggie heaven and yet I still can't get rid of her bed. Macho Man's first sentence was telling her to go and even now I tear up thinking about how she isn't here anymore.

And work. It's growing. Faster and faster. And I love it.....even on the days when I feel completely overwhelmed! The balance between work and family is still a huge struggle. Family, as I tell all of my clients, are first. I had cut off taking anymore clients for this year and just opened up more dates because I was turning so many people away. This may be a double edged sword. Only time will tell. Speaking of work, I need to get back to that. My first Charleston wedding is this weekend!

Funk

2011-03-15T18:15:00.002-04:00

Stuck in a funk. Maybe it's the weather. Maybe I haven't adjusted to the time change. Maybe it's having a ton on my plate right now.

Regardless, I'm ready to get the funk out of here!

Five for Friday

2011-03-11T17:58:00.003-05:00

1. Macho Man got his first hair cut last week and it made me a little sad. He went to the barber shop with my Daddy and Hubby.....and I didn't go. Shocker, I know. But my Daddy never had a boy and I know taking a boy to the barber shop is a big deal for a man and I wanted the three of them to have this moment. He left here a baby and came back all big boy looking!

2. This week has been crazy busy with work. I have two brides right now that are paralyzed by decision making. As in, can't even decide what songs to dance to or flavors of cake they like. Here's my advice to them and all brides....there's no wrong. Period. It's what you like. Yes, we want your guests to enjoy themselves, but it is unnecessary to try to plan an event worried about pleasing every.single.one of your guests. They will go to many weddings during their lifetimes, but you will only have one wedding (God willing) so be sure it's a day that you love.

3. I gave up margaritas for Lent. Don't judge. It's going to be hard. Warm days with late sunsets are on the horizon. Perfect times for a margarita on the back deck. sigh.

4. I called today about attending a concealed weapons class. It's time I become comfortable with a firearm in case there is ever a need to protect myself. Luckily, I went to high school with a guy who is now an instructor and SWAT team member and he is going to help me along.

5. Lovebug had me purchase her first stick of deodorant today. She's 9!! She sweats and she hates it and I can't argue with that. I just can't believe we are already at that time.

New job

2011-03-03T10:23:00.003-05:00

I can say with 110% certainty, I love Hubby's new job! We realized very early on with his last job that it just wasn't going to work out and things quickly went from bad to down right miserable. To say the year we spent with that company was a nightmare would be an understatement!

What it did do was give Hubby a job title that parlayed into other job opportunities. So much so that two of the largest companies involved in health care got into a little bidding war for the Hubs. Ultimately, we went with the job that offered less money. Yes, LESS money. Granted it was more than we were making, but visions of being debt free in one swoop went out the window.

It was a search your heart moment for us. Many prayers were said. Our family simply could not afford, emotionally and financially, to endure another year like the previous. So we really had to weigh all options carefully. More money=travel every Tuesday morning through Thursday evening. No exceptions. No change to the days gone period BUT more money to dig ourselves out of the mess from the previous year. Less money=less money and let's all be for real and admit that money is a HUGE draw to a job. BUT it also had a team of people that Hubby really felt he connected with. It had more opportunity to grow as an employee. It also had less travel. And ultimately, we are family people. We want to spend as many evenings together around the dinner table that we can. Hubby wants to be more than a weekend parent. There isn't a price tag for that. And I am so thankful we followed our hearts.

eta: I wrote this and didn't hit publish. Part of me wondered if it was too personal to talk "money" and if I wanted to share that, but after reading one of my fellow bloggers recent post I felt the need to share.

Never say Never

2011-02-20T11:33:00.000-05:00

I feel a case of Bieber fever coming on today....

Happy Friday!

2011-02-18T18:16:00.002-05:00

Beautiful 70 plus degree weather. Kids out of school for the day. It's Friday. Can someone say, "Fantastic Friday!".

Hodge Podge

2011-02-12T19:00:00.003-05:00

I am tired. Dog tired. Hubby and I decided to skip even purchasing cards for each other this year for Valentine's because the truth of the situation is that neither of us needs another thing to worry about at this time.

However, our children will be spoiled yet again for a holiday. And, contrary to assumptions, I do not like to shop. So, this weekend really wasn't the best weekend to take care of the Valentine shopping. Next year I think I will just do it the week after Christmas and be done.

Work is busy....and fantastic (most days!). My little business was featured on another major event blog this week and I couldn't be more proud. I have also had the honor of being placed on the preferred vendor list at a very special place in Highlands, NC. While this does not mean I will be called on every weekend by brides booking this venue, it is an honor to be on such a list for a location so prestigious and esteemed in customer service. Typically it takes several weddings to be placed on this event and I did it with one! Attention to detail and customer service is paramount in this industry!

Today we went to a memorial service for the father of an old friend of mine. As far as memorials go, it was the best one I have ever been to and probably very much similar to something I would like held for myself when I pass on. After this memorial we came home and Hubby & I were playing with Macho Man. He made one of those baby faces that looked like an old man. To which I said, "you are going to be a cute old man one day"......and then I got a little sad, because I realized that that will be a phase in my baby's life that he and I won't share. I won't be around (more than likely) to see him as a cute old man. As a parent you try to never think of NOT being there for your child, no matter what their age.

The school year is rapidly coming to an end and while this makes me a little sad since Birdie will be at "big" school next year with Lovebug, I have NEVER been so ready for summer to get here. I look forward to some lazy days hanging out with all my little people.

Hubby is still enjoying his job....as am I and the Lovely Ladies.

Now to go make some pineapple and bacon cupcakes for treats for the neighbors. I found a recipe that I must try and I figure....who doesn't like bacon!?!!

Featured!

2011-02-06T08:30:00.003-05:00

I don't post much about work here (heck, here lately I just don't post!) but check out wedsavvy for my latest work creation!!

snow days

2011-01-11T10:33:00.002-05:00

We are snowed in again today and I am beginning to get cabin fever. The wife likes to get out and about and this is really putting a damper on that. Maybe I should take it as a sign from God to take down the Christmas tree....yes, it's still up. Don't judge. I like to keep it up until Jan. 2 normally anyway because I like the lights and this year I had an out of town wedding that weekend and we were out of town again last weekend....and we will be out of town again this weekend! yikes! That would also explain why I am refusing to even bother to put the suitcases away at this time! Some quick updates from the Faithful family
*I did a wedding for a friend of 16 years. While it was beautiful, I have decided I will never go
down that path with a friend again. Enough said on that.
*Lovebug and Birdie were flower girls at said wedding. They were the cutest flower girls ever.
And Birdie, being the entertainer and all, started telling us that morning that she was going to
give a concert at the wedding. I thought she was kidding. She was not. She had the stylist do
her hair "like Taylor Swift" and then at the reception she talked the band into letting her sing
a Taylor Swift song....all by herself. There she sat perched on the stool, barefoot and all,
singing "Love Story"....and there I sat just yards away crying my eyes out!!!!
*Speaking of Birdie, it's almost time to register her for "real" school!! No more just having her
here with me for most of the week...or if we just decide to stay home from school.
*Lovebug has decided she wants to go to Harvard since they had the first dental school in the
US. If any of you win the lottery can you pretty please split it with me?
*Macho Man is growing and changing every day. Some mornings it's like you can visibly see
where he grew during the night. He loves brushing his teeth, doing "cheers" with his cup,
watching his dog and play, play, playing! He's still too chicken to walk...3rd child of mine to
NOT walk until after their first birthday!

so long...

2010-12-14T15:21:00.002-05:00

How has it been a month since the last time I posted? When I first started blogging I felt like I had so much more to say. Now, I'm so busy hurrying from one task to another that, while I still read blogs, the thought process seems to have escaped me as to writing my own blog posts! I have been swamped with weddings (which I am very thankful for), the Hubby has yet another new job (which brings me even more happiness!), I have 3 children (which brings me the most happiness), but all of these things combined make it where I barely have time to clean my house...or decorate like I want for the holidays. This past year has brought MANY struggles, but it feels like we are moving forward and upward and it feels so good. I hope to pop in a little more often over the next few months, but know that even if I'm not writing, I'm still reading!

Password!

2010-11-16T20:00:00.000-05:00

Ok, I have tried and tried to comment on several blogs and blogger keeps telling me my password is incorrect! Is anyone else having this problem?

sigh

2010-11-04T20:55:00.002-04:00

Tonight I put to bed a baby boy. Tomorrow I will wake up to a "big" boy. Where did the last year go? How is he already one? And how can I be so happy about his milestone and so sad about knowing there will no longer be an "official" baby in the house? (sigh)

Just because...

2010-10-03T18:29:00.003-04:00

he is the cutest little Tiger in the whole wide world!! Thank you Tiffiney Photography for being such a talented bestie and going along with all my photo op ideas for the little Faithfuls. Macho Man will be sporting this exact same jersey for many, many years during this time of year for a photograph so we can show the progression of how he grew to be a big, strong and handsome Tiger!!

You can visit www.tiffineyphotography.com to see some more of her amazing work!

Grateful

2010-09-22T13:47:00.002-04:00

I am so extremely grateful that one of my readers commented and let me know that she too has been going through some of the same issues with her daughter being bullied. It makes me feel like I am not alone in this and I am validated in my feelings. It is so hard to pin point female bullying. It's not like little boys where they hit and push. It's more of an emotional battle field. And they start sooooo early. That has been the most shocking to me. Maybe I had my head buried in the sand believing I wouldn't have to worry about this until middle school, but I really thought I had a while. The manipulation, the lies, the exclusion. It is exhausting and heartbreaking and when talking to other parents it is so hard to describe. I have read several articles about female bullying and every single one of them describes what this child has done to mine. What makes it worse, the bully's mother is a teacher at the middle school Lovebug will go to one day. And she is one of those mothers that full heartily believes her little girl would never be mean to another. And it makes me want to scream....especially since I have witnessed the behavior with my own two eyes! Now, do I think Lovebug could have done some things differently in the past. Abso-freakin-lutely. And I have gone over what she did wrong and how I thought she could have better handled it. I have shut out so many of my neighbors because of this because I refuse to be near this family and the drama that somehow unfolds around it. And to be honest, I feel myself being a little bitter towards my neighbors that they either don't see what has happened or they are turning a blind eye. What to do, what to do?

status update

2010-09-20T20:33:00.003-04:00

I wish I could blog in status update increments. Today mine would say, "Mamas don't let your daughters grow up to be bullies." or "New chapter officially begins today!" or "How is my baby boy already almost a year old?!". Obviously, we are experiencing a lot of highs and lows right now, but if the only low is the little bully then we will survive. Lovebug is just having to learn at a very early age that some girls are "mean girls" and we are going to adhere to the "rise above it" motto, even if I want to let the "mean mommy" have a earful!

9/11

2010-09-11T11:53:00.002-04:00

Always Remember.

C-L-E-M-S-OOOOO-N!!

2010-09-03T23:31:00.002-04:00

Just a little excited to kick off Tiger football tomorrow!! Took Macho Man and Birdie to the First Friday parade this evening (Lovebug was too busy with her own social scene to squeeze in time for this little family outing!) and Macho Man loved it! Can't wait until tomorrow! Let's go Tigers!!

out of the mouth of babes

2010-08-20T21:37:00.001-04:00

"When I have babies I am going to have to borrow one of your bras Mommy."

~~Birdie

Lovebug

2010-08-14T10:34:00.002-04:00

Dear Oldest Child,

Please, for the love of God, stop being such a grump to your little sister and I. You are only 8 (and a half) and I am not prepared yet to deal with such teenager-ish behavior. Please let me have a few more years before dealing with the mood swings and I will promise not to scream like a crazy person anymore. Deal?

Love,
Your Frazzled Mommy

Weight...

2010-08-13T18:27:00.000-04:00

of the world is slowly lifting off my shoulders. More to come later.

1/1/11...

2010-08-07T11:11:00.005-04:00

Visualize this space transformed into a winter wonderland with the help of an abundance of candlelight, feathers, bulb flowers flown in from Holland and many, many other natural elements. And this cute little couple will be saying their vows right there in front of that fireplace with their nearest and dearest in attendance (and my two lovely ladies flanking them as flower girls!). We're gonna make magic happen!!

Thank you to Tiffiney of www.tiffineyphotography.com for once again for fantastic job! Looking forward to heading to Dallas for the bridal portrait!!

Stopping in

2010-07-19T21:24:00.002-04:00

Don't know if I even have a single reader left since it has been many moons since I last posted. Life has been busy with the little people in my life and wedding season. I just got back from doing a wedding in Jacksonville (which my family was invited to as well--whoo, that put a whole new element on things for me!!) and fell in love with the city! I seriously think if and when I am ready to expand that may be the second locale for my business. The San Marco area is fabulous for shopping and eating and I was lucky enough to work with some fabulous vendors. And added bonus, it is a beach city....not that I had time to get in a bathing suit and head there this time, but knowing it was there was great. If you are a bride to be in the Jacksonville area: Contact me! I want a reason to come back!! Now, off to re-evaluate that 5 year plan I had.

SWAGGER WAGON

2010-06-17T10:43:00.001-04:00

This is hilarious!! Happy Thursday!

Reality television

2010-06-16T22:51:00.002-04:00

We all know by now that reality television is my version of crack (well, that and Dr Pepper), but I have to admit some of this stuff I've been watching lately is just plain Crazy with a capital C. First, let's talk about the Real Housewives of New Jersey. Danielle. Danielle's thugs in waiting to "protect" her from the Manzos. And the craziest of all, Kim "G" dancing on that pole. Ewww. Second, this crazy train that I am watching right this very moment, Toddlers and Tiaras. For one, I will never be a mom that is ok with the fake tanning, flippers (fake teeth!) or fake lashes on toddlers. Then the behavior of all these folks involved. Unfortunately, I am not talking about the children. Will these shows be the classics on TV Land when our children are adults?

Life Lesson

2010-06-09T19:45:00.002-04:00

I have learned a little life lesson over the past year or so that I have been reminded in the past fews days of it's truth: When you don't engage, people become enraged. This is referring to all those folks out there that love to live with the drama in their life. When you refuse to engage in their behavior they truly become enraged. As life marches on I keep reminding myself that these are people you cannot reason with so (no matter how tempting it may be) just to not engage them and they will move on.

Am I still a blogger?

2010-05-24T09:17:00.002-04:00

I have to admit I just haven't been feeling bloggy lately. Life seems to be going at a frantic pace and some days I feel like I am just trying to keep my head above water.

Foothills 5K And The Beat Goes On | Westminster, South Carolina 29693 | Saturday, May 22, 2010 @ 8:00 AM

2010-04-22T15:36:00.000-04:00

Foothills 5K And The Beat Goes On | Westminster, South Carolina 29693 | Saturday, May 22, 2010 @ 8:00 AM

Perfect day

2010-04-18T22:10:00.002-04:00

What are the elements to a perfect day?

1. Sitting in church with your oldest child's head resting on your arm. Or better yet, listening to her sweet little voice singing the hymns with you.

2. Brunch. Need I say more?

3. The lovely ladies and I going for a ride in the car and singing our hearts out to some Taylor Swift. Birdie even does her little hand motions with the songs to give them that little extra something! After "Fifteen" goes off she tells me, "I am Taylor Swift!!".

4. Sitting on my front porch rocking my sleeping Macho Man and watching my lovely ladies and Hubby play in the yard.

5. Taking in some country music eye candy while watching the ACM awards while eating one single, small scoop of strawberry ice cream.

Perfect.

My family

2010-04-05T20:39:00.003-04:00

Me and all my lovelies Easter evening. I look tired, but don't care as this is the first picture of all 5 of us in months!!

Happy Easter

2010-04-03T20:49:00.001-04:00

From the Faithful family to yours, we wish you many Happy Blessings this beautiful Easter weekend.

Assumption

2010-03-20T14:08:00.002-04:00

Last weekend my girlfriend and I are scooping out the location for her art show to brainstorm some ideas. While we were there the wife of one of the gentlemen in charge of the facility saunters into the room all weird like and proceeds, without even introducing herself, to rub my belly. (pause to note that even when I am at my MOST pregnant this is a pet peeve of mine as MY belly is not public property.) She then proceeds to not just stick her foot in her mouth, but to ram it so far down that I thought it'd poke on out where the sun doesn't shine when she asks me, "so, when is your baby due?". Oh yes she did! Girlfriend and I look at each other and try not to crack up as we both know what just went down. I tell the crazy lady that I am, in fact, not preggers, but rather I just had my 3rd child 4 months earlier...all the while SHE KEEPS RUBBING MY BELLY! WTH?! Bless my sweet girlfriend, as she tried her best to make a recovery or at least an easy out for crazy lady with a "I had my baby 8 months ago and I still have a belly" comment. Crazy never apologized, noted her error, NOTHING. Which leads me to this public service announcement: You know what they say about assuming things....It makes an a$$ out of you and me. Now excuse me while I can find a piece of chocolate to make myself feel better.

Busy!

2010-03-07T14:11:00.003-05:00

I am sorry I haven't posted much lately. Besides my normal everyday busy life I am currently working on 3 charity projects (1 of which is a VERY large event in the Upstate) and 2 weddings. Once I come up for air I will be back in the bloggy world. Lord knows that between raising 3 children and watching my smut television (to relax, of course!) I should have plenty to write about!

2010-03-01T21:01:00.002-05:00

Please visit www.laylagrace.org. Every since I came across this blog this family has weighed heavy on my heart. This little girl has made me appreciate my own babies even more and hug them a little tighter. Have your kleenex ready.

tic tacs

2010-02-15T11:14:00.002-05:00

Tic Tacs go in your MOUTH not your NOSE!! Ok, Birdie?

There she goes...

2010-02-05T18:12:00.002-05:00

8 years, 3 months, 1 week and 3 days ago I gave birth to a beautiful baby girl. She came into this world wide eye and extremely eager to take in everything around her. So eager, in fact, that her Daddy and I seriously wondered if we would ever sleep again. From the very beginning of her days she has been an "old soul". Observant of her surroundings and ALWAYS picking up more than you'd think for a child her age. We've been told many times over by every educator that crosses her path how extremely intelligent she is. Then you add in the beauty of her. She really is something to look at. Always has been. But she is also extremely beautiful on the inside. Wanting to make everyone around her happy. Tonight my "old soul" went on a date with her Daddy. It's not their first date by any means, but tonight I really saw the young lady my baby girl is becoming. There was a new aura around her. I started teaching her the art of anticipation tonight, not letting her Daddy see her until she was completely ready. Right before her appearance I whispered "she looks beautiful" and then she walked into the room. His eyes misted over, as did mine. He put her corsage on her and they posed for their pictures before heading off to meet the other Daddy's and Daughters for dinner and the dance. All the while I felt my heart ache a little knowing that in a few short years it won't be "cool" to get excited about going on a date with your dad. That in a few short years there will be another boy as the apple of her eye. That in a few short years a young man will be standing before us ready to take my precious cargo out the door for her first "real" date. That in a few short years she'll be walking out that door and into the world on her own. And as she got into the car with the first man she has ever loved all I could think is, "there she goes..."

Book Reviews

2010-01-27T13:49:00.004-05:00

The past week and a half I have somehow managed to read not one, but two wonderful books. The first, Sarah's Key, was fantastic. Not fantastic in that warm fuzzy kind of way, but because you leave it more aware of actual events that have taken place as they are intertwined with a fictional storyline. I recommend picking up a copy. The other book, The Last Song, was delivered to me yesterday morning and by bedtime I had finished it! Every nap, every nursing session, every spare minute I had yesterday went into this book. I cried the entire last hour of reading it! I loved the way Nicholas Sparks lets all the characters have an opportunity to narrate the story as it is unfolding. If you haven't read it already go get a copy now...and pick up some kleenex with it!

Sprouting grays

2010-01-23T22:40:00.003-05:00

Today I found two, count 'em, TWO gray hairs! The Wife isn't happy. Having a hard time deciding if it's Macho Man's lack of desire to sleep on his own which equals zero sleep for me when Hubby is traveling or if it's the day to day drama of the Lovely Ladies or if it's the shocker I got grocery shopping this week. At the favorite grocery store grocery shopping by myself for the first time in months (and yes, I was very excited about this opportunity. Sad I know, but whatever!) and I finish up and go check out. Now, Hubby will aggravate me about my ability to stock pile on supplies at the grocery store. But this wasn't one of those trips. I got what was on the list plus 2 or 3 extra items. Imagine my surprise when I look at my total and it was almost $300...for hardly any groceries! I almost stroked out!! Problem? They didn't close out the sale before me and my groceries were just adding onto that person's total! Lesson of the week? If something doesn't seem right ALWAYS speak up even if you feel like it's a little embarrassing. The cashier tried to tell me that my steaks and small can of formula were the problem. Hello, that was $30 worth of merchandise! And having to deal with the stares of all my fellow customers wondering what in the hell was going on in my check out lane as every.single.one of my items had to be voided off the bill and re rung was fun times. Really not. Had I waited until I had gotten home there would have been no recourse for me, but since I made the cashier go through my receipt to discover why it was so expensive I was able to save myself over a $100!

Mastitis...

2010-01-10T18:46:00.002-05:00

I've got it and it hurts like heck! I started noticing the symptoms yesterday and by this morning they were in full effect. I can't even bear to have Macho Man up on my chest as it hurts so bad. I've tried the warm shower and expressing milk and I've nursed him on that side several times. If any of you have any other suggestions please feel me in. I feel like I have the flu with achy muscles, fever, the whole nine yards. Not a fun way to spend my Sunday!

Strange?

2010-01-08T08:04:00.002-05:00

Is it strange that I love, love, love to see snow, but I hate, hate, hate to play in it because I despise being cold?

On a completely different note, this Susan Powell story is so sad. Her husband is guilty! Sorry if you disagree, but the facts (that the police do actually have) do.not.add.up!

And another thing, Happy Birthday Elvis! Love him!!

Hello, My name is...

2010-01-07T21:54:00.002-05:00

the Wife and I am addicted to Jersey Shore and any and all of the Real Housewives. I feel my brain turning to mush as I type this.

eta: Just saw on the Huffington Post that Simon has filed for divorce from Tamara on the basis of infidelity. Interesting....

2 months

2010-01-05T21:08:00.002-05:00

Today Macho Man is two months old. I absolutely can NOT believe he has been with us that long, but at the same time I am at that place where memories of a time without him are fuzzy. He is picking his sweet little head up and trying to look around at the world around him and figure it out. His favorite time is spent without clothes on--Lord help us as he gets older! He is also quite the ladies man, always saving the big smiles and giggles for his Mommy. And his sisters ADORE him! Birdie had such a hard time when she came to the hospital and met him for the first time. She truly had her heart set on having a baby sister and as soon as she found out we had a boy she wanted to go home. She wouldn't even come give me a hug or barely touch Macho Man. It broke my heart!! Now she is big sister extraordinaire. And Lovebug is just a little Mommy looking out for him. Macho Man is a fussy little fella when the sun goes down and he is not a fan of sleeping by himself. And I am convinced that if I had 10 children every single one of them would have reflux issues that would be a source of great stress for me!!! Regardless, he is so super sweet and like a lump of sugar for me to love on.

Merry Christmas

2009-12-24T09:59:00.003-05:00

photo courtesy of Life Prints by Tracie

Merry Christmas from the Faithful Family.

Checking in

2009-12-11T22:30:00.002-05:00

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

2009-11-09T09:02:00.003-05:00

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....

2009-11-08T19:10:00.001-05:00

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

pressure

2009-11-03T07:04:00.002-05:00

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...

2009-10-29T10:04:00.002-04:00

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

2009-10-13T17:04:00.004-04:00

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

2009-10-11T11:40:00.002-04:00

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

2009-10-09T08:36:00.001-04:00

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

2009-10-07T13:20:00.006-04:00

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

2009-10-07T12:01:00.002-04:00

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

2009-09-24T17:51:00.004-04:00

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!

2009-09-22T22:01:00.005-04:00

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

2009-08-21T13:59:00.005-04:00

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

2009-08-05T22:37:00.002-04:00

photograph courtesy of www.tiffineyphotography.com

Week in Review

2009-07-25T23:26:00.003-04:00

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

2009-07-21T10:22:00.002-04:00

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

2009-07-20T14:21:00.003-04:00

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

2009-07-15T14:03:00.002-04:00

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

2009-07-07T09:49:00.002-04:00

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

2009-07-03T22:38:00.003-04:00

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...

2009-06-24T22:30:00.002-04:00

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?

2009-06-17T11:43:00.005-04:00

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

2009-06-16T23:33:00.003-04:00

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

2009-06-10T17:52:00.009-04:00

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...

2009-06-10T14:43:00.002-04:00

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

2009-06-09T20:28:00.002-04:00

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

2009-06-08T15:11:00.002-04:00

"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...

2009-06-01T22:26:00.003-04:00

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

2009-05-31T16:54:00.001-04:00

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"...

2009-05-27T18:43:00.001-04:00

..."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

2009-05-25T21:44:00.002-04:00

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

2009-05-20T12:10:00.002-04:00

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

2009-05-17T10:54:00.004-04:00

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?!

2009-04-28T23:04:00.003-04:00

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.

2009-04-27T15:38:00.003-04:00

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...

2009-04-21T21:10:00.002-04:00

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

2009-04-20T21:10:00.003-04:00

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

2009-04-18T08:42:00.002-04:00

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...

2009-04-17T20:02:00.002-04:00

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!

2009-04-13T12:02:00.003-04:00

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

2009-04-10T10:48:00.004-04:00

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.

2009-04-08T00:07:00.003-04:00

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!

2009-04-05T15:19:00.004-04:00

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

2009-04-03T09:54:00.003-04:00

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