Whose Hair is it Anyway?

Me and my man...ain't he cute?

What's better than a fun night out with old friends? I'll tell you, a good hair day! All to the thanks of my Brazilian Blowout! This fabulous invention is the opposite of a perm. That's right girls, frizz free, but without the stinky chemicals of a perm. Read about it if you wish. Anywho, I had it done, and I must say, I'm enjoying it. Here are some pics a great event that we have in Franklin every year. This is my 2nd year going and we had a blast! It's called Wine Down Main and is a fundraiser for Boys and Girls Club. Great times for a great cause! If you like wine, it's a must attend. Thank Jeanine and Brian for a great time!

Brian and Tadd

Jenine and me (is it me or is my face huge in this pic?...or maybe it's just that my hair is so skinny...ha!)

Hurry up and Wait

Sorry I've been so behind on blogging, but I've been in house selling chaos. We've had our house on the market for over 5 months. Most weeks, we have averaged 5 showings a week. We have kept thinking that something was going to happen, but the 2 offers we had were not what we were needing.

Anyway, over the last 2 weeks, we have been in negotiations with a family our 3rd offer), and have finally come to an agreement and have a contract! We close and have to be out of here on December 3rd. I know, quick, right?

After praying for this to happen for the last several months, it seems like everything is happening fast. AND we haven't found a new home for ourselves. We are moving into Tadd's sister's house for awhile until we find somewhere we love.

So tonight as I did the dishes, I thought how weird that some other family will be eating dinner in this kitchen in 10 days. After 4 years of my family of 3, then 4, now 5, eating in this kitchen. Strange. Bittersweet. Looking forward to seeing what the Lord has planned for us next!

Random Act of Kindness

I was out running errands a few days ago, and stopped at Chick Fil A for lunch (or 'Chicken Lafe' if you are Hadley). Anyhoo, I got up to the drive thru window to pay, and the guy said, "The lady in front of you paid for your lunch." WHAT??? I didn't recognize the car, drive thru guy and I decided it was a random act of kindness. I haven't been able to get it off my mind. They really made my week. What a blessing! I think I'll pay it forward.

Fashion Funnies

1) While at yoga last night, I noticed (while looking through my legs in down dog) a lady wearing a Sara Lee t-shirt. This was hilarious to me...wearing a dessert t-shirt to a fitness class. I was waiting for the teacher to say "Put down the cheesecake and make your way to Warrior I!"

2) I was grocery shopping early this morning (7:30ish). I saw a woman in the distance wearing Christmas pajamas. I'm not bashing not looking your best at the store as I've been known to wear workout clothes and what-not to the store...however, pjs...really? Is it that hard to at least put some sweatpants and a hoodie on? As I got closer, I noticed she also had on striped socks and black flip-flops. No joke.

Can I Borrow...?

Remember those college days when we would raid each other's closets? I mean, 90% of my pictures (aka Zaps) were in someone's clothes besides my own. Our wardrobes were endless when we shared! I just don't do that as often these days. My friend had a fancy wedding to go to last weekend and I told her to come shop in my closet. We had so much fun dressing her up! Just like the old days! She looked fabulous and didn't have to spend a dime! Don't we all have something that someone else could get some use out of? I have some fancy stuff that doesn't get much wear at all!

So how about you? When was the last time you borrowed something from a friend? Or they borrowed from you?

Sweet Home Alabama

While I do think things are sweeter in Tennessee, Alabama will always be my sweet home. Every time I return home to visit, I am reminded of the things I miss. So here's my list (in no particular order) of things I miss about Alabama.

1) My family

2) My kids grandparents (I know, I know...same as my family)

3) Alabama fans (so sick of TN orange, I can't even tell you)

4) Eli Gold-I miss hearing the voice of Alabama Crimson Tide on the radio. Just ain't the same without him.

5) Rick and Bubba-I only get to hear them here on AM radio until 8 am :(

6) 92 ZEW I live in Music City and still think the greatest radio station ever is in Mobile.

7) My friends-Even though most of them have moved around, a few of them are still there.

8) The beach and water.

9) Fresh seafood!

So while the rolling hills, brilliantly colored leaves in the fall, wonderful friends, great education, church family, live music, great shopping have me hooked for life, I will always love Alabama!

Take it back

This was the reading in my "Jesus Calling" book for yesterday:

"You have been on a long uphill journey, and your energy is almost spent. Though you have faltered at times, you have not let go of my hand. I am pleased with your desire to stay close to Me. There is one thing, however, that displeases Me: your tendency to complain. You may talk to Me as much as you like abut the difficulty of the path we are following. I understand better than anyone else the stresses and strains that have afflicted you. You can ventilate safely to Me, because talking with Me tempers your thoughts and helps you see things from My perspective.

Complaining to others is another matter altogether. It opens the door to deadly sins such as self-pity and rage. Whenever you are tempted to grumble, come to Me and talk it out. As you open up to Me, I will put My thoughts in your mind and My song in your heart."

As I read this, I thought, "I don't complain too much." Then I remembered my last post. I guess I complain more than I think. Instead of being bummed about the rain, I should be thankful that I have boots to cover my feet and hair to put in a ponytail. Thank you Lord for all the many blessings you give me!

Rain Boots and Ponytails

Don't know about the weather where you are (pretty sure I don't have readers all over the world), but with the exception of last week, it's been raining FOREVER! I'm tired of wearing my hair in a ponytail due to the rain. And while I do heart my rain boots, I'm kinda tired of wearing them too. I'm ready for some sunshine!

Fashion "Statement"

Had to share what Tadd said the other night about fashion (funny because he rarely has a say so one way or the other). He said "I hope that skinny jeans on guys goes out of style REALLY SOON, and don't come back in style for like 20 years. That way, Alex won't want to wear them." I have to give him a big "AMEN" for that! Although, I do think the Jonas Brothers are precious!

Hattitude

My sweet baby has hattitude. I'm so glad! I love hats!

It's Official

I've taken "Jon and Kate plus 8" off my TiVo list. Several reasons, but mainly because I'm sick of their turmoil every week. It's so obvious that they are not about their kids anymore as they say they are. And all Kate talks about is how she's going to do all this things that she's never done before. She has a new outlook on life. She has always been uptight and never tried anything new. Hmmmm, maybe if she would've made that change earlier, her marriage would still be intact. Now she's grilling, riding horses, and shooting guns...all things she's never done before, and things she would've had time to do if she wasn't yelling at her husband on national television 24/7.

Oh, and did you hear? Starting in November, they will no longer include Jon. It will be called "Kate plus eight" and focus on Kate as a single mom. Yes, that is great guys. Way to make it all about your kids. Sounds like a woe is me story for Kate. Ok, that came out wrong. I could not imagine being a single mom with eight kids. Doing it with one was hard enough, and I had LOTS of help. But I think she does too. Anyway, sorry for rambling. I just read this story and it got me fired up. I feel better now.

On a fashion note, I am so glad Kate has started caring about her clothes. She looks so much cuter lately! But the hair has GOT TO GO!

Who's in for starting a trend?

Raise your hand if your grandmother wore/wears one of these? My Maw-Maw had one in her purse at all times (along with a handkerchief or tissues and peppermints). She looked so cute in it too! With all of this rain, I'm wondering why everyone doesn't have one in their purse? Surely, someone can design some cute ones. I don't know about ya'll, but I don't even care about getting wet when it rains...except for my hair. Especially after I've straightened it. I'd much rather tie one of these on as opposed to opening up an awkward umbrella. So who's in? Rain bonnets anyone?

Who do you choose?

So long before Clinton and Stacy, were Trinny and Susannah. I heart them! They have a new show called "Making over America with Trinny and Susannah." Love it. I choose them over C and S anyday. Why? I'll tell you. They are honest, but nice and they actually take the 'victim' shopping instead of throwing them to the sharks like C and S do. I mean seriously. These people obviously don't know how to dress much less shop. Why would you send them off on their own the first day. I know it's for entertainment purposes, but it ticks me off. They always end up in tears, and I feel for those poor people. T and S take them shopping and even take pics of them in their outfits to hang in their closet. That way, they know how to match their clothes up. We do it T and S style at Ciao Bella by the way!

So who do you choose? Oh, by the way, one negative about T and S. They get naked and grab people's T and A wayyyy too much. Not in a nasty way, but to see how their bodies really are...but still, they get carried away sometimes.

Me and this Shoe

Ordinary? No! I really don't think so,

Not a love this true.

Common destiny, we were meant to be, me and this shoe.

Like a perfect scene from a movie screen,

We're a dream come true.

Suited perfectly, for eternity, me and this shoe.

Everyday, well I need you even more, And the nighttime too.

There's no way, I could ever let you go.

Even if I wanted to.

Everyday I live, try my best to give, All I have to you.

Thank the stars above, that we share this love, me and this shoe!

-Taken without permission from Kenny Chesney's "Me and You."

Everyone likes to hear a good love story, right? Well here is mine about my steamy love affair with a shoe. I first saw them in black on "What not to Wear." It was at the end of the show when they show what they are wearing and how much they cost. The cost was $32 and I knew then that I must find these shoes. Fast forward a few weeks later (about 4 days ago), when I got an email from DSW showing me these fabulous ruffle shoes.

HAT?! These were them in red! So I went to the site, and they had them in several colors. What to do? I didn't know what color to get, and I was scared and confused. Fast forward to yesterday. I am shopping at Marshall's with a client. As I pass the shoe clearance section on the way into the dressing room, something caught my eye. Who was this radiant beauty staring back at me (insert angels or Kenney Chesney singing)? THE SHOES...IN MY SIZE...FOR $15!!!! Shut up. Me and these shoes were meant to be and we will be together forever.

Oh, and as you can see...Hadley loves them too! Oh, and if you were wondering, and must have some for yourself, the brand is Madden Girl.

Amazing Woman

I would love for you all to read this post. This 20 year old mama of 13 has the most beautiful faith I have ever seen. She was in my brother-in-law's youth group at our old church. This post tells how her journey started. http://kissesfromkatie.blogspot.com/2009/08/it-is-my-16th-birthday-and-i-am-eating.html

Christmas Morning in September

I went to hear a woman speak about organizing (not my strong point unless it's a clothes closet). We asked her what to do about the millions of toys we have. She suggested putting 1/2 of them away in storage, and then every 2 to 3 months, swapping them out. It keeps the clutter away and keeps your kids interested in their toys.

So I tested out this theory. Except I waited 7 months to swap them out. Anyway, Hadley woke up from her nap yesterday and screamed with excitement! At least ten times yesterday, she said, "Thank you momma for my new toys." Precious! She did not remember any of her other toys that I had put away. And what usually occupies her for 30 minutes, has occupied her for a day and a half.

So I guess I'm saying, I'm sold Mrs. organization lady. I buy it, and am totally gonna do this more!

By the way, she said do it when you get a ton of new birthday gift toys too. Put half of them away, and your kids won't even realize it. Then pull one out every once in awhile. Money saver!

Juicy Suit is Gonna Move Ya'

Sorry for the corny title, but I can't get the catchy Juicy Fruit commercial out of my head. I struggled with a swimsuit selection this year considering I was a few months post-giving birth. After going to EVERY department store, I ended up at Belk. Why I didn't start there in the first place, I don't know. I have gotten my last 2 swimsuits there, and I always have success. I guess I just wanted a bargain. Anyway, I ended up with a swimdress. I know, sounds grandma, but look at it...cute, huh?! And yes, my body looks JUST LIKE THIS in it!

Anyway, since I am a "frugalista" (Tadd says this should be my new title since we have heard the term on the new Target commercial, and I'm always searching for a deal), it was hard for me to make this purchase. It is Juicy Couture, and though it was 1/2 off, it was still pricey for me. SOOOO glad I bit the bullet and did it, because I heart this swimsuit. It covers everything I want covered and shows off the good stuff.

So we went to the beach and Illy came over with her precious little girl, Reagan, and guess what Illy was wearing? You guessed it...my Juicy Suit! She said Jenn had it at a girls weekend that I missed and she went and bought it because it was so cute. Guess all of us moms have the same idea...no more bikinis!!!!

So my Juicy Suit is on the move...across three states...so much for being different.

Ciao!

Your Villa or Mine?

is the name of the nail polish I got while on our beach vacation. I love it! It makes me feel like 'Peaches 'n Cream' Barbie, but has a touch of pink to it. Perfect summer color! Don't you think it would be such a fun job to name the nail polish for OPI? They have the neatest names.

I decided to take Hadley with me to get her toes painted too. She is such a girly girl and loved it so much. She stood in my bubbly water the whole time I got my pedicure, and then the lady painted her toes ElePhantastic Pink (seen below). It was such a great little mommy/daughter time. The little ladies painting toes started their Vietnamese chatter, and Hadley got this confused look on her face, and then started laughing. She looked at them and said "What you sayin'?" They laughed too, and told her what they were talking about. I mean, after all of these years of wondering if those ladies were talking about me, and all I had to do was ask them what they were saying?!! We learn so much from our children.

OK, and on a more serious note, Tadd had a patient a few weeks ago, that got the disease, elephantiasis (look at your own risk) from getting a pedicure. She got an infection in her foot from tools that weren't cleaned properly, and it turned into this terrible condition. That may have been my last pedicure...and Hadley's first and last!

How'd they get us with a song like this?

Today, I took Hadley and Eli to the library for story time. Afterwards, while we are doing the craft, they play music. When we finished our craft, there was an upbeat tune on, and Hadley asked me to dance with her. And how could I deny her that? So we danced. As we were leaving, the CD player belts out "Candle on the Water." I died laughing. I know all the moms in there thought I was crazy, but I couldn't help it.

Most of you may think I'm crazy too, but for you Gamma Sigmas, you'll get it. So my question is, how did AGD get such awesome girls like us, playing a song like that at rush (with me singing it no less!!)?

Ciao for now!
And remember, my love for you will always burn.

Things that make you go hmmmm...

Really? Our society is highly medicated enough. Do we really need to take a prescription to grow our lashes?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mWoVT2cGoN0

Don't even know what to say about this one...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Du2uBwtRW-I

And one I don't have a video for...I was at the beach with my family at poolside nursing my baby. I am very good about hiding my goods while nursing, but some people (just knowing there is a baby nursing under that cover) seem very grossed out by it. I had a young woman (who by the way was wearing a bikini, and had NO BUSINESS wearing it), staring at me in disgust while I was nursing. I really wanted to say something, but practiced self-control. What is wrong with people? Why is in not okay to very tastefully nurse your baby in public?

Another reason for me to NOT go to the gym...

http://www.comcast.net/articles/news-national/20090805/US.Health.Club.Shooting/

CRAZZZEEEEE! What is this world coming too?

Speaking of gym, have ya'll read about Jessica Simpson losing 10 lbs in a week? I mean, if you can lose weight that fast, why get heavy in the first place. Not that she was heavy, but heavier than normal. Whatever...you get my point. Maybe if I eat Chicken of the Sea and cry over Romo all day, I can drop some lbs myself.

Horrible Horizontals

What not to wear when you are already taking heat for your weight gain. The media is going to have a hey day with this one. She so could've done patriotic another way. If you are wondering, this is at AT&T National golf tournament hosted by Tiger Woods.

Why I don't do Facebook

Well, I get asked the question all of the time, so I thought I'd answer it here once and for all. I have several reasons why I don't do Facebook. And no, it is not at all because I think I'm too good for it, or too cool. Here goes:

1) I think I've mentioned this here before, but Tadd is "anti-putting-pictures-of-our-kids-online." So Facebook would be just another place for me to post pictures of me and my friends. I I know what you Facebookers would say then. "She is so self-centered. All she does is put pictures of herself up." You know who you are. I've heard this a million times about other people!

2) I would be addicted to Facebook. I would be that person who never got out of her pajamas, never did laundry, and let my house get disgusting due to my addiction. So I'm preventing the sin instead of trying to fix it later.

3) There are people in my life that I no longer speak to on purpose. Not that I would be friends with them on Facebook, but I would be friends with their friends. It took me long enough to get to where I am now...I don't need to bring past ghosts into my life.

Fair enough? I hope these are good enough reasons for you. Trust me, there are tons of people I'd like to be better about keeping in touch with and I know Facebook would help. However, the positives do not out weigh the negatives.

Speaking of hair...

I have the honor of showing you this very dramatic haircut! Not only that, but you get to hear how she told me her story in an email. If you don't know Donna's mom, Becky, you are missing out. And the world is missing out because she doesn't have a blog of her own. So here is her email to me after I posted about losing hair...Enjoy!

Holly, you know Mama's gotta keep up wichoo. Losing hair after birth is normal and hormonal. Here's an article from Baby Center.
On more current news, guess who got a haircut? Shut yo mouf. I did! I got a phone call one day, picked it up, and heard, "Becky, this is the 1980's. We need our hair back." I almost wrote you and asked for advice prior to this. I knew my hair was keeping me from the Junior League and all high society events. Also, when I went with Don to Bass Pro Shop, I noticed all the ladies with my hair had on tank tops, stretch shorts that showed every roll, and weighed at least 200. Their trucks were not air conditioned. I now feel so free, I may take up guitar and painting. Here I am in April:

Girrrrl, I have no idea why I was so scared to let go of my 30 year old fuzz.
Love,
Miz Becky showing mo necky

And for the grand finale, when I asked her if I could use her for this post, this was her reply..."You can use it. I am ready to be on the Cat Walk representing for the AARP!"

I love this woman! You look great, Miz Becky showin' mo necky!

Losing my hair, or just my mind?

I thought I would ask my blog world about this problem I'm having (since there are lots of new mamas out there). My hair is falling out by the handful!!! I mean, when I wash my hair, you could make a wig out of the hair that ends up in the bottom of the shower.

Now, I've heard that you don't shed while pregnant, so you make up for it after you give birth. But I did notice myself shedding while I was pregnant with Eli. I lost hair after Hadley too, so I was testing this theory. I'm not too worried about it since I have more hair than I know what to do with. But for people with thin hair, this could be really bad!!!

I have done no research on the subject, but just wanted to know if any of you have the same issue.

I know I'm losing my mind, but is it leaving me in the form of lost hair?

Ciao!

Father, Son...

...hers spilled it. This is what Hadley says when doing the Sign of the Cross when we are praying. She almost has the motions down, and it takes all that is in me to not bust out laughing because she is so dang cute. "Fader, Son and hers spilled it, Amen." Then she looks at me like she is so proud of herself. Too cute! (That's supposed to be Holy Spirit for all of you that are lost out there...not lost souls...just lost in my story)

Raise Your Hand...

...if you think Jon and Kate should watch Fireproof? A little love dare could do them some good.

You Are What You Wear

I was having a conversation with a parent and my son's teacher on the last day of school about teens and what they wear. The Dad, Brett said that he doesn't care what kind of clothes his kids wear and what they do to their bodies (piercings, tattoos, etc), as long as they had good attitudes and didn't act like little punks. The teacher mentioned that her son has decided he is 'emo' and is totally dressing and acting differently. I told them that I think you act differently depending on what you wear. This being said, I hope to somewhat control what my kids wear as long as possible. So if you are dressing 'emo' will you act that way? Here is a definition I found for 'emo' for those of you who don't know.

"The term "Emo" is used as counterculture; it is an abreviation of the word "emotional". Emo it's defining not only an attitude, but also a fashion that are coming from emocore (emo music). Emocore is a combination between hardcore and punk music."

What about the 'metrosexual' kids who aren't quite sure if they want to be boys or girls? Do they act more feminine if they are wearing a tight pink polos and skinny white jeans?

Brett agreed and went on to say that he wears workout clothes most of the time because it makes him want to eat better. When you are dressed up in a formal gown or a tux, do you carry yourself differently and become a different person?

I try to stay the same person no matter what, but when I'm wearing certain things, my attitude definitely changes. Bad hair day, stay in my pjs all day? Bad mood, and sleepy. Fresh tan, great hair, skinny day, favorite jeans fit? GREAT MOOD! How about you? Do your clothes change who you are?

Ain't no sunshine...

...when she's gone. Our hunny bunny is gone south with her grandparents for a week. While I am glad to have a little break and get some things organized in this house to get it ready to sell, she is greatly missed. She is having a blast, but melted down bawling when I talked to her on the phone last night...so did I! Pray that I can make it without her!

Where does the time go?

I just looked on Annie's blog list and saw that I haven't posted in two weeks...bad blogger! Sorry. Life is crazy...crazy good! We have decided to put our house on the market, and have had people here in the house every day for 1 1/2 weeks helping us get it pretty enough to sell. Isn't it funny that you do all the things to your house that you've been wanting to do for years in order to sell it and let someone else enjoy it? My new spiritual director/guide, Lucy, told me that it is very Christian of me to buy a new stovetop and granite countertops for someone else to enjoy...ha! Never thought of it as charity, but I guess it is! Anyway, just wanted to update you on my life and will post pics of the progress later (maybe...I look back at all of the promises I've made to you in blog world, and haven't kept my word...i.e. pics of baby shower, baby's room, 30th b'day party, etc.).

Ciao for now!

Bella Band

Alright, my slightly ADD self is tired of blogging about mommy inventions. So this is my last one. I may have saved the best for last. It's the Bella Band! As you can see from the picture above, you can wear this all during your pregnancy, and after. It's really great at the start of your pregnancy when your pants are uncomfortable, but you aren't big enough for maternity clothes yet. You can wear it with your pants unbuttoned. I'm currently using mine to hide the muffin top when I wear my jeans that button, but don't look very flattering right now. My smart sis also told me that she used hers as an under top/cami type thing. It fits really snug, so you can use it as a bra (only if you are itty bitty up top like me...none of us want to see your business sagging to your knees) while nursing. I hear there are knock offs of this that are just as good, but this is the one I have. Love it! Here are a few more things I was going to post about, but like I said, I'm over it!

http://www.bumbobabyseat.com/

http://www.miracleblanket.com/index.htm (WHY didn't I think of this...or why didn't someone else think of this 9 years ago when Alex screamed all night for months?!)

Hide them thangs!

I have been very blessed to have been able to nurse all of my children. It wasn't until the 3rd that I got one of these incredible nursing covers. I had always just covered up with a blanket. This always turned into a problem when the babies got old enough to grab it and pull it off, leaving mommy in all her glory completely exposed. So here is mine (my sweet friend Jenn bought it for me as a gift).

Mine is the Bebe Au Lait brand. But there are also "Hooter Hiders" available, and I'm sure lots of other brands. LOVE THIS INVENTION! The first time I saw it (maybe my sisters), I thought it was ridiculous. I thought, "Why would someone spend money on this piece of fabric, when a blanket works perfectly fine!" Little did I know that they are wonderful! Lightweight (so you and baby don't sweat to death), hooks around your neck (so baby can't pull it off), has a little plastic insert in the top that leaves it open (so you can see baby, and baby can breathe), and it covers the whole top part of your body...not kidding, you can practically strip down under this thing and know one would know. This is a MUST HAVE if you are a nursing mommy!

Cool to me a Mama!

I was sitting thinking the other day (I know...dangerous, right?), and I realized how far fashion has come in the last 10 years. Not just everyday fashion, but fashion for pregnant mamas and new mamas. Since I have an almost 9 year old, and a newborn (and one in the middle), I have seen how far we've come. So I'm going to dedicate my next few posts to show you some of my favorite mommy fashion inventions. Let me know if ya'll have any favs!

This is my sling (the black and white one). I love it dearly! When I had my boutique, I was prego w/ Hadley. I was at market in Atlanta and went to the baby floor. Luck would have it that I passed by the Sweet Fletcher booth and met one of the owners. She was so sweet and sold me this sling. It was a sample so I got a great deal on it! I was a sling mama with Hadley, and have continued it with Eli. Love it. It is so much easier to hold him while chasing Hadley, than toting the car seat around. I would've LOVED for these to have been around when Alex was colicky and screaming constantly. Not that they didn't have slings back then, but they definitely weren't this cute and hip! I always get compliments on it. Check out Sweet Fletcher for more cool designs.

Sweet Fletcher
Sweet Fletcher

Also, I have my eye on this one. It's called Baby K'Tan. Not as fashionable, but I think it'll be easier when Eli gets a little bigger. Shoot me an email or leave a comment if you know of any others I need to be considering!

Baby K'tan

It must be Halloween...

...because all of the freaks are out in their costumes. Oh no, wait, it's just another awards show! The ACMs were last night, and once again, the fashions were interesting to say the least. So maybe I am being too harsh. I'll show you some pics and you be the judge of it. Here's my rundown of the 2009 ACMs.

Category 1: Unknown

Why unknown? Because I have no idea what this get-up is. Still scratching my head on this one.

Category 2: Barbie

Peaches 'n Cream Barbie

Barbie Cake...See pics below in case you are not from the generation I am

(I think there has been some form of Barbie cake in every generation).

I was afraid Carrie was going to turn around and the stage hands were going to be enjoying a piece of her...er....her dress!

Category 3: I left 1/2 of my dress at home I was afraid that if she made a sudden move, we were going to get flashed.

Poor girl. I love Miranda, but someone lied to her and told her that her dress fit.

Is anyone else tired of the neckline and waistline merge? Who wants their daughters leaving the house dressed like this?

Sorry for being so negative about the ACMs. Just not thrilled about how my hometown was represented. Ya'll tell me if you have different opinions! On a happy note. Taylor Swift is still covering her body...thank God! Seems like our role models for our girls are getting younger, and hemlines are getting shorter...and as we see above, necklines lower. Alright, I'm off my soapbox!

Ciao!

Iron Sharpens Iron

I got an interesting phone call a few days ago. It was a man and he said, "Hello Holly, this is Sam, and your friend Joel gave me your contact info. I don't really have much of a reason to call other than to introduce myself. Joel said you were a really sharp businesswoman in the Nashville community who I must know." (Joel, by the way, was in a networking group with me when I was a recruiter, and is a wonderful businessman, and great family man). Ya'll, I couldn't help but laugh out loud when he said that, and returned his comment with, "Yes, maybe 2 kids ago! I'm not so sharp now, but rather dull." Anyway, we had a good laugh and agreed to meet for coffee soon to talk business.

As I thought about this conversation, I was first of all, very honored that Joel would think of me this way...a sharp businesswoman is quite a compliment! And while I run my own business now, it is nowhere on the level that I was doing business "pre 2nd child." But I also started thinking of the woman I was 3 or so years ago, and the woman I am today. Have I lost it? What do we "career women" sacrifice for our children? Or is it a sacrifice at all? When/if I get back to where I was in my career, how long will it take for me to switch back into business mode, or is my "business brain" gone. Don't get me wrong. I love my job as a mommy, and my life is richly blessed because of my children. But (excuse my transparency), you can't help but wonder if you will be able to hold a professional conversation when that time comes without saying somthing like "May I use your potty?"

As I pondered all of these questions in my mind, I started thinking of the people in my life that have been so dear to me since I have become a stay at home mom. They are very "sharp" women! Even though most of them are in similar situations as me, we have very intellectual conversations, they are just different than what my conversations would be 3 years ago with my colleagues.

All in all, I think I have come to this conclusion. If God wants me back in the workforce, he will help me make that transition just fine. In the meantime, he will continue to put women into my life so like we are told in Proverbs 27:17 we can keep each other sharp. Thanks to all of you who are my iron

Proverbs 27:17
"As iron sharpens iron, so man sharpens his fellow man."

Fancy Nancy

Why didn't I invent this character? Fancy Nancy. She loves all things fancy from her tiara to her shoes to her big fancy words! I had never heard of her until Hadley got invited to a Fancy Nancy birthday party. So when we got invited, I headed to the library to get some of her books so we would know all about her before the party. Hadley has LOVED the book, and wants to read it all of the time. Nancy is my new favorite kid! Being a a first time "mama to a girl," all of this is new to me. You should totally check her out! She is fabulous!

Now, on to the funny part of this story. Have any of your kids called something other than it's real name and it sound like something else? Well, when Hadley brings me this book to read she says, "Read Act Nasty mama." Translated, "Read Fancy Nancy mama." It cracks me up.

I have a friend who picked up her son from daycare one day and the teacher told her he was saying bad words. She was shocked, and wondered where he heard them from. She asked what Sam said, and the teacher said "Dumb Fu#*!" My friend realized immediately what Sam was saying and it was "Dump Truck."

Ah, the things babies say. I told Hadley that her name is "Nancy, Ms. Jackson if you're nasty." I guess it's fine that she says 'act nasty' as long as she's not actually acting nasty!

Come, Sweet, Comb

Does anyone remember these combs? It has been awhile since I've seen them...until last week.



My drivers license expired, and I had to get it renewed. I know, right? Perfect timing? I love getting my picture made for something I will have to look at daily for another five years right after giving birth. I have dark circles under my eyes, and am "still swollen" as that peach at the park told me.

Anyway, back to the combs. Since I had to wait for about 1 1/2 hours (standard for these places), I had lots of 'people watching' time. There is also a sign up that asks you not to use your cell phone in there. I didn't know this, so didn't bring anything to read. Hence the people watching. I kid you not, 3 men pulled these combs out of there pockets to run it through their hair before posing for their pic. NOT KIDDING! Is this hilarious to anyone but me? I thought only people that take the school pictures had these. Maybe you had to be there, but let me explain the 3 people that had possession of the infamous black comb.

1) A man with a nice long mullet. Felt like I was home sweet home in Alabama again.
2) A regular looking man, dressed in a button up shirt and nice jeans...and a beaded Indian belt. He must've made a stop in Gatlinburg on his way. He didn't have matching moccasins, but another guy did.
3) A man with "Church of Christ Preacher hair." No offense to these preacher men, but since I went to a COC high school, I met lots of these preachers, and most of them had the same hair. And I think it is safe to say, they have a comb in their pocket, and a bottle of Aqua Net in their office.

Next time you go get your license renewed, take my advice...don't bring a book! The people in your town may quite possibly offer you more entertainment than you bargained for!

Out of the mouths of babes

Well, I think I've heard it all now. This evening I was at the park swinging Hadley and my anonymous friend "Teri" and I were visiting. A young girl (about 12 years old) came and hopped on the swing next to Hadley. She looked at me and smiled, so I smiled back. She said, "You pregnant?" I laughed and said, "No, I just had a baby a few weeks ago." She said, "Oh, and your stomach is still swollen." I won't tell you want I wanted to say to her if she were a little older, but I just laughed again, and said "Yes, thanks for pointing that out." She then looked at my friend "Teri" and said, "Is that your baby?" (She was holding Eli.) And I said, "No, that's my baby." Then she looked at "Teri" and said, "Oh, and she's the Grandma?"
AWESOME!!!! My belly is swollen, and my 30 something friend is Grandma. We must have looked BEAUTIFUL tonight!

Oh well, I will just raise my children to keep such comments to themselves, unlike this cruel human did to us!

Eli Pictures

Eli's online! Check out my friend Molly's photo blog. Isn't it nice to have such a great friend who is a photographer?! She's awesome! http://boulayphotography.blogspot.com/2009/02/baby-eli.html

If you want to see her other work, take a look at her website! www.boulayphotography.com I HIGHLY recommend her if you live anywhere near here...or if you are here visiting me! I'll put up some pics from my surprise 30th b'day bash that she and my other buds threw for me.

Ciao!

27 Pair of Socks

Yes, you read that right. Not 27 dresses, but 27 pair of socks. Do you have a pile of socks that don't match stashed away somewhere? How long have they been there? When do you finally throw them away?

Well, during my nesting period before Eli was born, I decided to get rid of those mismatched socks that live in the cabinet above my washing machine. I had all of my laundry done, and closets were cleaned out, so I figured it would be safe to see what matches I had, and part with the rest.

So guess how many matches I found when I pulled them all out...that's right...27 pair! I can't even tell you what I was feeling after that accomplishment. I had such a natural high when I found all of those matches. But after that, I thought I may have matches for the others somewhere, and put the rest back in the cabinet. Will I ever throw them away? Or will the cheapo in me always hope that there is a mate for them somewhere in my house?

My cup runneth over...

My baby is here! Eli Patrick was born Tuesday, February 10 at 1:45 am. 7 lbs 4 oz (same weight of my other 2 kids...crazy) 20 1/2 inches long. The birth was a beautiful (yet painful...thanks Adam and Eve) experience. Eli is healthy, and so am I! We got home yesterday, and things are going smoothly.

Last night, while were were saying our prayers, Alex was holding Eli, and said "Dear Jesus, thank you so much for blessing our family with this precious baby." His little voice was so sincere, and me, Tadd, and my mom were crying before it was all over! He is so excited to have a brother!

Hadley loves her brother too, and wants to hold him all of the time. I feel so blessed to have three healthy children! Thanks for all of your prayers and support!

"It's all happening..."

If you didn't know, the quote "It's all happening" came from my favorite movie of all times, Almost Famous.

Anyway, I'm in labor! It's all happening, slowly but surely as it has with my other 2 kiddos. Started timing contractions around 5 am, and they were 10 minutes apart. Then they stopped when I got out of bed at 7:00. Had my midwife appointment at 11:30 and she said I was for sure laboring. 3-4 cm 80% effaced, baby is 0 station.

So here it is about 14 hours later, and contractions are erratic, but strong. So say your prayers tonight that this doesn't drag on for days. I'm ready to meet my little boy/girl! I can't say I'll post when the baby is born, but definitely when I get home.

Oh, by the way. I'm watching the Grammy's I recorded last night so I can report back on Grammy fashions. I'm sure that'll be on the top of my list post-delivery!

Ciao for now!

Do we become our Mothers?

This cracks me up. If you haven't seen "The Mom Song," you must watch. What cracks me up, is I can hear my mom and myself saying these things. Do we become our mothers when we become mothers? Yikes! J/K mom...you are the best!

Ugggggg.....

I know I will upset some people with this post, but it must be said. I think when people where Ugg boots (this style in particular), their feet look like baked potatoes. Now I know lots of people, and have lots of friends (probably including some of you), who love their Uggs. This does not change the way I feel about you. Just an opinion.

Another thing that bothers me about Uggs, is when people put them on with pajama pants tucked in them, and think this is an outfit. People...change your pants if you are going into public! Seriously, I saw 2 people in one day a few weeks ago (cold day) with pajama pants, Uggs, sweatshirts and scarves. This is not an outfit. I must admit that I am not the picture of fashion lately, but I at least have the decency to change out of my pajamas before leaving the house.

Sorry for those who love their Uggs! I here they are 'comfortable,' but I hear that about Crocs too...enough said!

Ciao!

Makin' Room for Baby

That's right, even my key ring got cleaned up making room for the little one. I have been nesting in a big way! Annie pointed out to me when we were in B'ham, how awesome my 'Relay for Life' key chain was. I honestly hadn't even realized I had it on my keyring. So I took it off, along with my 'Food World Bonus Value Card' (Note: We don't have a Food World here, and I've lived here for 5 years). And the Relay for Life key chain was from when I was in college at South Alabama, and co-chaired the University Relay there. Nice...time to let go Holly. I also took off my library card, and put it in my glove box.





I have managed to do these things in my mad nesting stage: 1) Cleaned off my keyring 2) Cleaned out the linen closet in the hall 3) Cleaned out Hadley's closet 4) Organized the bathroom closet 5) Cleaned out and re-organized Alex's toys and closet 6) Organized bonus room closet





These are all things that have NOTHING to do with the baby, but it makes me feel better.





Coming soon to a blog near you...nursery pics!





P.S. Visited midwife today, and for those who want the details, read on...those who don't...stop here.


2 cm dilated, almost 70% effaced, baby is -2 station


making progress...could be today, or two weeks. Still have 9 days until due date. Trying to cherish every moment, as I waddle around town! Grateful my feet and hands aren't swollen...just my lips!

Let the Good Times Roll!!!

Last night we hosted our supper club, and decided to do a Mardi Gras theme. We usually make it to Mobile every year for Mardi Gras, but since the bambino will be here any day, we are missing it this year. So we brought Mardi Gras to Tennessee! Tadd made seafood and sausage gumbo and shrimp po'boys. And you can see below, Molly brought a king cake for dessert. We played Mardi Gras trivia and Taboo. Good Times! We have such a great time with this group of people, even though we only see each other every other month!

King Cake!
Bill in the mullet wig (he only wishes he had this much hair)...sorry for the sideways pics. Anyone know how I turn them around?

(Top row) Bill, Me, Vickie, Mark (with the microphone), Rob, Joe

(Bottom) Molly (with her bottle of whiskey she won in trivia), Mary (Molly's date since Dennis

was out of town, Brigitt, Karen, Kami and Tadd

The infamous Gingerbread house. Explanation: At our Christmas supper club, we do white elephant (where you have to bring a wrapped gift of something you already have at home). This was the gift Tadd gave this year. It was a re-gift (another story for another time). The picture doesn't show you just how tacky it is. It is a gingerbread candle house with glitter ALL OVER IT! Unbeknownst to Tadd and myself, this house has been making it's way around the supper club since Christmas. We found it in our front flower bed this morning. So I guess we are stuck with the house again, and get to pass it along to someone else soon!

Ode to my Chi

Oh, how I love you, my little Chi

Without you, how puffy my hair would be

There has been no one like you

to come into my life

to save me from curls, frizz and strife.

I got you on Ebay, and saved lots of dough

and thanks to that, I have no more 'fro.

Short hair I always thought I'd know.

But with you, I can try and let it grow.

You are the best purchase I have ever made,

Now my hair is almost long enough to have a braid.

How I wish I'd invented you,

but since I didn't I'll write this poem for you.

I LOVE MY CHI!

I've been tagged

I just got tagged by my Nannie. Many of you know her, but for those that don't, I'll try to describe her. She is strong in her convictions, which is a beautiful thing. She says what she thinks and believes no matter what people think. She says she is shy, which I've never known that side of her...or maybe I just thought she was a snob when I first met her (J/K). She has been a dear friend to me over the years, and I plan on that continuing! Even though she barfed all day on her wedding day, she was a radiant bride! And I seriously wore her bridesmaid dress to several Mardi Gras Balls. Betcha can't say that about many of the dresses hanging in your closet. Thanks for choosing black Nannie!

Here goes...7 random things about myself:

1) I like to gamble. This is really funny considering I am generally a pretty cheap person. I don't buy any clothing that's not on sale, and rarely go anywhere without a coupon, or bargaining with someone at the cash register. However, I will turn over a $20 bill on one hand of blackjack at the casinos...go figure.

2) I love Days of Our Lives. Ridiculous. I started watching it again (after several years off after college), when I was pregnant with Hadley. I couldn't sleep at night, so I would watch Days at 10pm on the Soap Opera Network. I'm not addicted, like I have to watch it everyday. But I definitely catch it during the day, or at night a few times a week.

3) Friday the 13th is my lucky day. Not that I believe in luck or am superstitious, but good things happen on Friday the 13th. Tadd and I had our 1st date on Friday the 13th, and it has just kept on getting better. So since my baby is due Wednesday, Feb. 11th, I'll probably be 2 days late.

4) I've been obsessed with shaving my legs for the last 2 weeks. Like Annie wearing socks during labor, I'm scared to death to have hairy legs in stirrups. And my feet do not go to bed without getting a good dose of lotion.

5) I get softer with age. Most of you who have known me the longest know how hard I have been (no need to comment). I think my children have softened me up. I cry so much more, and have become much more sensitive. If someone hurts my feelings these days, they are usually shocked because I haven't been the type you could get to easily in the past.

6) I love karaoke.

7) I have never dyed my hair (or injected my lips). People think because it is so black, that it's dyed. If you look closely (or far away these days) you will see several stray grays. I've been pleased that I haven't had to do anything to my hair in the past. Guess I'm gonna have to give in soon and cover up those grays!

I tag Lindsey, Molly and Illy

'member when Monday

I spend much of my time thinking back to times past. Whether it was last year or 20 years ago. So enjoy, and please, feel free to leave your own 'member whens in the comments section.

'member when tight-rolled jeans were cool? Oh wait, this is a recent picture! Why oh why do some of these horrible fads have to come back into style? And who even gets to decide it's cool? They even look bad on precious Katie Holmes. Does she realize her jeans are too big too? I mean come on! This is one come-back fashion you will not catch Holly in!

Good Day

Friday was a good day. I had a sitter for the day for Hadley, and of course, Alex was in school. My friend Shannon and I had a manicure, then I met my friends, Chris and Molly for lunch at Wild Ginger for the sushi I've been craving (don't worry, nothing raw). Then I used my gift certificate for my massage that my sweet hubby gave me for Christmas. Now, I was really looking forward to getting to lay on my belly for the massage on that prego pillow. Well, my belly was too big, and it was not comfortable, so I ended up on my side for my massage. It was wonderful! Then I went to the mall...by myself...and the Lancome ladies did my makeup. Then I got a smoothie, and got my toes done. Good day! I decided if I could afford a day like that once a week, or even month, I'd be a much better wife, mom, and happier person all around! But that's ok, I'll take what I can get! My relaxing day made my achy body feel much better, and I'm not in such a hurry to have this baby now :)

Then Friday night, my sister-in-law, Kelley, and Molly threw Tadd and I a very fun couple's baby shower! Pictures to come. Even though the men complained that they had to be at the baby shower, they had fun. The beer and wine kept them happy :)

As my friend Stacy was leaving the shower, she told me and Molly that it was her birthday, and laughed. I wanted to cry. We TOTALLY forgot for the 2nd year in a row. Actually, last year, she was a new friend, and she just failed to tell us it was her birthday. This year, my fault. Now, I'm terrible at birthdays, and I admit that. But two years in a row is bad. So I felt really bad about having my, "ME, ME, ME" day when it was Stacy's birthday. How do you make up for such a thing? I mean we even had a shower for ME on her b'day. Has this happened to any of you before? When I say friend, I mean really good friend. Not just someone you know. But someone you see at least twice a week, and talk to more than that. HELP! We have a fun belated b'day lunch planned for Wednesday, but I feel like I'll never be able to make it up to her. Any bright ideas?

By the way, I am the type that talks about my birthday for like weeks before, and have a birthday week for myself. If my friends don't plan something for me, I am planning it myself. I guess I expect other people to be the same way. But some people (Stacy included) have never been the type to make a big deal out of birthdays. What category do you fall into? Would love to hear your comments!

Sorry for rambling!
Ciao!

Please Pray

Please pray for this family http://prayersforowie.blogspot.com/ . For those of you who went to Troy with me, you know Jennifer Martin. Please read the blog to see what is going on in her family. She needs our love, prayers and support now more than ever. Hearing this really puts things into perspective for me right now. I think I'll be complaining less.

Big Momma's House

Last week, my maternity clothes fit me. I have dropped majorly since then, and every shirt I put on shows several inches of my belly. So I've decided to not leave the house. Plus, there's plenty to do here...considering I have no clothes out for the baby, a bag halfway packed, a car seat in the attic, and fabric to make curtains for the nursery. Oh, the list goes on. So big momma ain't goin' nowhere. Takin' Alex to school (on time) and pickin' him up...maybe to get groceries if absolutely necessary. So if you see me in my pajamas at Publix or something, ignore me and just know that they are the only clothes that will cover my belly. Oh, and if you do say something, just know that I've got 3 weeks until my due date, am a bit emotional, allot in pain, and may cry if you approach me.
Ciao!

'member when Monday

I spend much of my time thinking back to times past. Whether it was last year or 20 years ago. So enjoy, and please, feel free to leave your own 'member whens in the comments section.
'Member when slap bracelets were cool? Probably around the same time that Hypercolor was cool. Didn't they take them off the market at one time? Were people hurting themselves with them? How? I remember the cool tricks we did with them. Slap bracelets rule!