{simple.little.joys}

{Valentine's Day: One Year Ago}

2012-02-14T07:13:00.001-06:00

Source: etsy.com via Kaylle on Pinterest

Happy Valentine's Day, everyone.
Ahhh, the Day of Love.

Isn't it crazy how much can change in one year?

It feels like almost yesterday...sitting in my room in Jackson, pouring my heart out over my computer, tears streaming down my face.

Writing a letter to my future husband to share with all of you.

I must like being vulnerable, huh?

As personal as that was and still is, it was what was on my heart, and I'm so glad that I wrote those feelings down. It's so special to me to go back and read those words a year later.

Click here to go back and read this love letter from me to him. (I promise it's worth the read!)

And here I am, a year later, and crazy in love with the most wonderful man. If you had asked me on this day a year ago if I'd be dating him, I would've laughed at you and rolled my eyes. He's not what I expected. He's not what I imagined. But he's everything that I needed and could've ever wanted.

I'm sitting here, with tears rolling down my face, reading the letter I wrote a year ago. I remember so desperately wanting to find him and be with him...little did I know that I already knew him and he was already a part of my life. Funny how things work out, isn't it? And as I read this, I realize that I may as well have substituted his name in every paragraph of this letter--it couldn't be more perfect for him. This letter IS him. It's like I wrote this to him without even realizing it at the time.

Let me get sappy for a second or two, if I may...Andrew is the best part of my day, every day. If I'm not with him, my thoughts immediately go to him, missing him and wondering what he's doing at that moment. The way he holds my hand in the car makes my heart melt...the way he tells me he loves me out of nowhere makes me feel like the only girl in the world...the way he kisses my forehead makes me feel protected and cherished. Of course, we have our moments. He challenges me more than anyone else and drives me crazier than anyone else sometimes--but beyond those moments, I look at him and know that even though I can't stand him right then, I love him with everything that I am. And I know that I'll put up with the rare fights and arguments for the lifetime of happiness that he's already brought me.

With Andrew, I laugh harder than I ever thought I could. I feel more protected than I ever knew possible. I know that he'll always take care of me and will always love me more than anyone else in the world, not only because he tells me so, but because he shows me so, too. I know that he'll be the best dad, one day, and I can't wait for that. My heart still skips a beat when I see his number pop up on my phone when he calls or texts me, and I still count down the hours to when he'll be home from work, just so I can see his face.

I am so thankful that God has a plan for my life bigger than my own, because I never would've imagined us ending up together. But, without him, I'd be lost. I wouldn't be me. He's made me the happiest girl in the world, and I can't wait for the next 60 Valentine's Days with him.

Source: jbe200.tumblr.com via Meg on Pinterest

Whether you're attached or single, love on the ones around you. Love is all that matters when it comes down to it. Hug your friends, squeeze your family tight, and tell them how much they mean to you. Happy Valentine's Day to each of you...I love you all dearly!

{A Disney Wedding with a Dash of Hogwarts}

2012-02-13T09:07:00.000-06:00

Well, hey there, friends! I'm baaaack! Home, safe and sound from Orlando.

We had such a great time--it was quite a quick trip, but we made the most of every moment and soaked in as much fun as possible!

Between the rehearsal, rehearsal dinner, wedding, and other festivities, we only had time to go to one or two parks, so we chose Islands of Adventure (which I'm totally okay with--we went to Disney last summer, so choosing to go to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter was easy peasy!) Luckily, Andrew loves Harry Potter as much as I do, so we had a blast riding roller coasters and acting like little kids on our free day!

Here's a little recap in pictures, through the iPhone, of course.

Our day at Harry Potter World:

{stop reading here if you think Harry Potter is ridiculous...}

I squealed like a little kid with the first sight of Hogwarts...I spoke in a British accent for most of the day...I tried Butterbeer (delish, but oh, so sweet)...My wand chose me at Olivander's...We came home with chocolate frogs, Bertie Bott's, and Whizzing Whizbee's...I may be sporting a Gryffindor jersey as I type...and there may be a Snitch sitting on my dresser, too. I'm telling you, we lived it up. And I loved every second of it.

The rehearsal dinner was at The Living Seas in Epcot...so fun and so unique! There's nothing quite like a Disney wedding. We had such a great time! Too bad I only got pictures of people...

The wedding was at the Wedding Pavilion on Disney's grounds...beautiful and perfect! If you looked down the middle aisle, you could see Cinderella's castle across the lake. GORGEOUS. I wish I had brought my camera in with me, but only got pictures afterwards.

The reception was in a grand ballroom at Disney's Boardwalk Resort...Disney knows how to do a wedding, I can tell you that. The food was divine, the dance floor was fantastic, and fun was had by all, without a doubt! We ended the night with a surprise from the bride and groom--a trip to Epcot to see the big firework show! It was such a great night.

We're home and somewhat rested now, missing Orlando and all of our friends already, though! Now I'm off to play with my wand and drink some coffee out of my Marauder's map mug, so I'll catch ya later! Hope your Monday is fantastic, girls! Love you all.

Stay tuned this week for a little Valentine's love, a fun and easy DIY, a must-read product review, and more!

{a little Valentine's Day Guest Post from the Life of Meg!}

2012-02-08T08:56:00.001-06:00

Happy Hump Day, one and all! How are all of you lovely ladies this morning? Well, as you read this, I'm about to jet off to the Wonderful World of Disney, so I asked one of my favorite bloggers to step in and do a little blog posting for me while I'm being a jet setter :)

P.S. a little picture (or two) to make you jealous...

Oh, you know...the SuperBowl MVP at Disney World, with Mickey and Minnie sporting the Hotty Toddy colors!!!

But any who...

My sweet Meg, from Life of Meg, is one of the most wonderful, precious, and fabulous girls that I've ever "met!" Although we're only blog buddies, I know that one day we'll be IRL bf's...we are pretty much bff anyway! She's here to share some fun little Valentine's treats with all of you...get excited!

So without further ado:

I just want to thank the sweet Miss Rachel for inviting me to guest post! I found her blog a few years ago, and just instantly new we'd be blog BFFs (we still need to roadtrip, girl!).

Well, being in the spirit of the vast appoaching Valentine's Day, I wanted to share some fun ideas with all of you! Now, let me be the first to say that Valentine's Day is about sharing your love for others - whether significant other, friends or family!

Before meeting Adam 2.5 years ago, I still loved celebrating the holiday with friends! Any excuse to bake, craft, and entertain is good by me! Let me share some ideas to get your Love Day creativity flowing!

{ Bake }

Valentine's Day can't be complete without copius amounts of chocolate in my book! Here are a few recipes that will be gracing my work, girls night, and Valentine's date... yum!

Chocolate Chip Heart Cookie Pops

Chocolate Dipped Strawberries

Chocolate Truffles

{ Craft }

I love the personal touches of DIY projects for any holidays, birthdays, or occasions, so Valentine's Day shouldn't be any different. Adam and I love to give thoughtful, sweet gifts and share a nice evening together. Here are a few ways to show your family/friends/hunny some personalized love...

Love in a Bottle

Love Note

52 Reasons Why I Love You

Love Music - Mixed CD Printable!

{ Entertain }

Looking for cute ways to decorate for a lovey dovey girls night, or for a stay at home date? These are on my to do list! SO CUTE!

DIY Heart Garland

Valnetine's Day Party

______________________________

I hope you found some love inspiration that you can add to your to do list! I'm going to have lots to keep me busy with this week for sure! ;)

I hope you will come visit my humble blog - [Life of Meg] - and say hello! I always love meeting new blog friends and seeing your blogs too, so drop by for a visit, I'd be happy to have you!

xo,

Meg

------------------------------------------------------------

Thanks a billion, my marvelous Meg! You never fail to inspire me with your posts. LOVE all of these Valentine's Day goodies!

Happy day to all of you! Keep up with me on Twitter and Instagram while we're in Orlando!

let me get on my soap box for a moment...

2012-02-07T09:23:00.001-06:00

Disclaimer--I'm about to rant for a few. Put your big girl panties on and buckle up. Pleaseandthankyou.

I've really been rubbed the wrong way about a certain issue a few times in the past week or so. I don't usually rant on my blog because I'm usually not a ranting kind of girl. Sure, I complain with the best of them, but there are a select few that hear my negativity--it's just not necessary for the whole world to be subjected to that.

But today is going to be a different story because this topic is near and dear to my heart.

Weight loss.

My biggest, longest running, most challenging struggle.

The other night at work, one of my coworkers noticed I had lost a little weight, complimented me on it, and then, in the same breath, made the comment that "it must be really easy for me to lose weight since I'm not married and don't have any kids." I just stared at her blankly for a few seconds, trying to figure out if I heard her correctly and if so, what exactly she meant by that.

She followed up with, "I mean, you just don't have all of these obligations and other people needing your attention constantly. You just have to worry about work, right?"

Talk about pissing me off! It took all that I had to just smile and walk away, holding my tongue all the while. If only she knew the struggle that I've gone through my whole life with my weight. She didn't know me when I was 242 lbs. She hasn't a clue that I've lost 70+ lbs in the past 2 years...the Rachel she knows now isn't the Rachel I've always been.

It made me realize how people really can't see my story from the outside.

I wish I could've spilled my heart to her right now. No, it's NOT easy for me to lose weight. It's not easy in the least bit. I have to bust my ass in the gym on a daily basis to lose a pound...I have to count every calorie that goes into my mouth to get to the size I want. I have to push myself for another minute on the treadmill every.single.workout. I'm not, by any means, one of those girls who was blessed with a ballin' metabolism. I don't get to eat whatever I want at every meal, and I definitely don't appreciate when people assume that. I'm still quite a ways away from my goal weight, so it's not as if I'm a size 4 or anything. Yeah, maybe I didn't help my case throughout college by not caring about my weight or health (too much fried food and not enough working out), but I'm not that girl anymore--I'm being proactive in my weight loss and I'm working on it every minute of every day. It's a constant struggle that people don't see. Unless you're one of my best friends, my boyfriend, or my family, you don't have a clue of my journey (or unless you read my blog :)).

And I get it. Yeah, people ARE busy with kids, jobs, husbands, chores. And no, I don't have kids and schedules and such. I haven't lived in their shoes, so I DON'T know how busy they are, but on the same hand, they haven't lived in mine. I DO know that if losing weight is important to you, you'll make it a priority. I DO have a full time job that takes a lot out of me. I DO work nights and have a completely jacked up sleeping schedule--try losing weight when you only get 4 or so hours of sleep at a time. And I DO have lots of other obligations, chores, and schedules to keep up with. That's why I go to the gym at super random times to fit it in the day. That's why I work 12 hours on my feet and then go straight to the gym before heading home...that's why I watch what I eat and TRY to make healthy choices daily. Because it's one of my biggest priorities at the moment. I can only imagine the new level of stress that adding a kid and a husband will create, but I vow now that I won't use that as a crutch to explain my weight problems. It really bothered me that she assumed it was a walk in the park to lose weight since I'm single and "carefree," as she called it.

Mamas, wives, etc. who read my blog and are in the midst of a weight loss journey, kudos to you. I applaud you and can't imagine the give and take that you go through every day. And I hope I haven't offended you by saying any of this, but beyond having a kid or not having a kid--being married or not being married, I know (and hope) you'll agree with me that we're all in the same boat. No, not every story is the same, and no, not every person's journey takes the same turns. But at the heart of it all, we all deal with the same issue every day. We all have to work our tails off to get to where we want to be. We all understand the struggle of counting calories, pushing it another mile on a run, lifting a few more reps of the weight. When it comes down to it, we are all just women fighting a tough battle that is important to us. When we're on that treadmill running or pounding the pavement around the neighborhood, we're not "Mama," "Wife," "Girlfriend," or any other title you may have...we're just women giving it our all to get to the goal we've set before us.

Bottom line...how about we encourage each other? Let's lift each other up, regardless of our different journeys and agree to understand that we're all on the same page. There's no way for us to stay motivated when people like my coworker can cut us down so quickly and easily. She could've left it at "Congrats on your weight loss, you are doing great!" It's as simple as that. As for me, I promise to remove those negative thoughts from my head. I promise to encourage you through every step of your process, because that's what friends are for. I promise to give you a pat on the back for every workout completed, every pound lost, and every drive-through you forgo. Without my encouragers, friends, uplifters, and family, I couldn't do this. Without my blog friends and Twitter motivators, I'd probably skip the gym quite a bit.

Okay, now that my blood pressure is coming down a little bit, I hope some (if any) of you are still reading. I've come to realize (after writing this long, run-on sentence of a rant) that some people probably won't agree with what I say, and that's okay. People have different opinions, and this is mine.

Whether it be weight loss, family struggles, job issues, relationship woes, etc...each person we come in contact with is fighting a silent battle that we don't see on the outside. This reminded me to constantly lift people up, encourage the ones around me, and be positive, because I can't see their struggles sometimes. I don't have a clue of what's going on on the inside. Whether how important or unimportant I may think it is, it's important to that person, and that's all that matters in the end.

Source: jennywheelerblog.com via Rachel on Pinterest

{miscellany monday}

2012-02-06T08:07:00.000-06:00

{wedding weekend}

This past weekend, one of my precious sorority sisters got married. It was such a fun occasion--we got to see a wonderful woman marry the love of her life AND got to reunite with so many of our sorority sisters. I loved getting to catch up and see all of my favorites! And if you know me, you know I love any excuse to get all dressed up, since scrubs are my main uniform!

What did we do before iPhones? I don't think any of my life would be documented otherwise!

{#SuperBowl}

Along with EVERY other person in the country last night, we watched the Super Bowl. I love any excuse to watch some football, eat some food, and enjoy having friends over! That's my idea of a Sunday Funday! Here were my highlights of the evening, in all of their random glory: Kelly Clarkson rocked the National Anthem. Girl can sing. David Beckham's underwear commercial should've been played during every break. I can't get enough of Tom Brady's butt chin. Hotttt. Madonna is old. The end of her half-time show was the best part of it. So happy for Eli's win! After all, the road to the Super Bowl goes through Oxford! #hottytoddy to our Ole Miss alums! Go Eli and Benjarvus Green-Ellis!

Fooooood!

{showering the Bride}

Faye and I are throwing a bridal shower in a few weeks for one of our favorite people! We've had the best time planning and brainstorming for ideas to make this little party unique, beautiful, and fun! Here are a few of our Pinterest inspiration ideas for our Kitchen shower! Just a little sneak peak of what's to come :)

I love every bit of it! All of the colors, the shabby chic details, the yummy food! I've been using Etsy like crazy to order our supplies, and it's been so easy and fun to pull together. I can't wait to see how it turns out...I promise to take a ton of pictures!

{running like a champ}

I'm in the middle of Week 6 of Couch to 5K and I can actually say that I have enjoyed my past two runs...of course, the first few minutes aren't the most pleasurable, but once I find my rhythm and get in the zone, it's not the worst thing in the world. I still don't think I'll be quite ready for my 5K in a few weeks, but I'm going to give it my all anyway! My favorite running song at the moment is "After All (Holy)" by David Crowder Band...give it a try if you need a little running encouragement! Who knows--maybe one day I'll actually be able to call myself a runner. Dreaming big--but I can be hopeful!

{expecto patronum}

I will be in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter in t-h-r-e-e days. THREE.

Words don't explain how ready/excited I am!

That's all, folks.

Happy Monday to you!

{the color run}

2012-02-03T06:22:00.001-06:00

I've realized that in my exercising adventures that I must have something to work towards in order to get anything accomplished. In the past, it's always been a wedding, a vacation, or the likes...but in 2012, my goals are going to be 5Ks. And eventually a Half Marathon, hopefully. Whoa, I'm dreaming big there. But we'll see.

I think the one I'm looking forward to the most is this one...the Color Run. I've seen The Color Run mentioned on a few other blogs lately and I was instantly fascinated with the idea.

Source: dailymile.com via Rachel on Pinterest

Visit here for more info, chicks!

I've already coerced a couple of my friends to join in with me on this little endeavor. We think we're going to sign up for the Nashville run in the fall and make a girl's weekend out of it. How fun will that be?

So, girls...are any of you interested in joining our little team for this? I totally want a big group of girls to take part in this...the more the merrier...and the more colorful, too :)

{recipe LOVE}

2012-02-02T09:40:00.000-06:00

So, let's talk about the thing that's on my mind 96% of the time...food.

This post is going to be short and delicious, because it is getting closer and closer to my bedtime with every word I type, but I just had to share two recipes with all of you!

I couldn't bear to wait another day to spread the love on these...found them on Pinterest, duh.

The links to the recipes should be under the pic--if it doesn't work, just holler at your girl and I'll send it right to you!

One of my fab friends came over the other night and we made this pasta...

Skinny Pasta with Chicken, Garlic, and Tomatoes

Source: skinnytaste.ziplist.com via Rachel on Pinterest

And here's our picture of our version of the meal:

Delish! Such wonderful flavor...can't go wrong with some garlic, pasta, and chicken. We added a side of baked asparagus and a wedge salad with balsamic vinaigrette and it was a meal to die for. I love me some pasta, and with this dish being only 329 calories for a serving size (even though I may have eaten a bite or two more than a serving size...), sign me right on up.

That's MY kinda meal.

And for dessert, we had the Lite Strawberry Cupcakes that I've seen floating around Pinterest for quite some time now. I've been too chicken to try them, but they were seriously easy to make and actually tasted pretty good. All you do is get a box of strawberry cake mix and add 12 oz of Diet 7Up! Bake at 350 for about 18 minutes and there you go. The consistency is different, but the flavor is still scrumptious!

Source: Uploaded by user via Rachel on Pinterest

Our version of these little treats:

I totes meant to snap a pic of my cupcake with the darling whip cream/strawberry garnish, but I, umm, devoured the thing before I could even get to my camera. Trust me, it looked just like that picture up there. An easy, low calorie, sweet treat--just what I look for in a recipe :)

I'm trying my darnedest to actually try some of the gazillion recipes that I pin, and these two definitely didn't disappoint! Try them out, you won't regret it, chicks!

Happy Thursday...I'm officially headed to bed. Work at 7 pm, so it's snooze time in my part of the world. Hope your days are marvelous--one step closer to the weekend!

Have you tried any recipes lately that are worth the recommendation? Share the love :)

{Want It Wednesday}

2012-02-01T08:59:00.000-06:00

Yep, girls, it's Hump Day. This week is just creeping for me...I've thoroughtly enjoyed the past two days, but I guess I've just been dreading the next 3 nights straight at work that I know are coming my way...

Well, ya know what?

We're going to have a little Want It Wednesday: Pinterest Style to banish away my workin' blues!

I've been scouring Pinterest (shocker! ME? Never...) for some fun fashions. It may just be me, but I am just itching for Spring to seriously get here so I can start wearing all the cute Spring fashions that are out there! I just love new seasons because a new season means new clothes!

I would never cheat on my favorite seasons (fall and the Christmas season) but my goodness, I'm in need of some serious color therapy around this time of year!

Gotta get working on my Carrie Underwood legs for this outfit...

Source: polyvore.com via Rachel on Pinterest

I am in love with every single bit of this outfit!

Source: polyvore.com via Rachel on Pinterest

There's nothing mellow about this yellow--I love how a color by itself can make me happy!

Source: modcloth.com via Rachel on Pinterest

TOMS ballet flats debuted TODAY! So excited to get a pair...I think I'm going for either the snow leopard or the hot pink! Looooove.

Source: fabsugar.com via Rachel on Pinterest

I think this gorgeous green is going to be one of my go-to Spring colors!

Source: shopthepeacock.com via Rachel on Pinterest

Give me anything coral and I'm good to go...

Source: us.topshop.com via Rachel on Pinterest

I love a good statement necklace--I have a dress that is perfect for this one!

Source: modcloth.com via Rachel on Pinterest

You can never go wrong with a little Tory...

Source: toryburch.com via Rachel on Pinterest

Love this style!

Source: shopbop.com via Rachel on Pinterest

There you have it, girls. Just a little sneak peak of some things I'm wanting on this Wednesday!

What are your must-haves in Spring fashion? Are you as ready for Spring as I am?

Happy Wednesday, my loves!

{my DIY extravaganza}

2012-01-31T08:35:00.001-06:00

I'm usually complaining when I talk about my work schedule, but lately, I've really been loving it...the advantages of working 12-hour-shifts means that I only work 3-4 days a week. With this crazy beautiful Spring weather we've been having in Oxford and my ~~addiction~~ healthy love of Pinterest, I've been making the most of my days off.

I've really loved doing these...it's been my therapy lately, if you will. Not only have I enjoyed exercising my crafting muscles, I've also been blessed with sweet friends who love to craft, too...so we've had quite a few crafting dates lately--and if you know me, you know I love when friends come together over coffee (or a glass of wine) and a hot glue gun.

I'm gonna link up with From Mrs. to Mama today to show off a few little DIY happies!

Want to see a few of my recent projects?

First up...my favorite. Favorite, favorite, favorite. I love this Valentine's wreath SO much!

I used a few different tutorials off of Pinterest, but this is the one I followed the closest!

The Roseland Family blog (visit here)

And I think my favorite detail may be the little pearl pins I used to secure them--which happened by accident, because I couldn't find plain straight pins and stumbled upon these! And thank you, Nicole, for snagging me the heart shaped styrofoam wreath--you're the best!

Next up-- the easiest craft ever, by the way...

This is the little project Nicole and I worked on...it literally took about 3 minutes to create, but it's super cute! DIY Heart Map... I ended up doing two hearts--the top holds my hometown and Oxford, where I live now, and the bottom is Jackson, where I used to live, and Madison, where Andrew's hometown. I love the sentiment behind it!

I seriously love this one...easy peasy, again: DIY Earring Holder

I got the cheese grater at WalMart for less than 3 bucks, used a can of fab apple green spray paint that I already had, and decorated it with all of my favorite earrings! Simple, chic, practical, and SO cute...just my style!

You know I love me some holidays, right? Well, Valentine's Day is no exception...Valentine Apothecary Jars!

I got these apothecary jars from Sears.com...random, but they were on sale after Christmas so I snatched them up! Filled them up with our favorite colorful Valentine treats and added a little sparkle and glitter in pink and red, and voila! A festive addition to our coffee table!

Last up for today is a little bit of my favorite pattern and a pinch of glitter...does it get better?

My loving, caring, doting engineer of a boyfriend mapped out my Chevron striped canvas for me and even painted the background--guess he was wanting a little DIY time, too! I added some ModgePodge and silver/gold glitter to this little beauty and I must say, I really like how it turned out! I'm looking forward to adding this to my gallery wall (if I ever get it started!) I think it'll add a great pop of color and sparkle...and it's Chevron, hello--can't go wrong!

All of these ideas and projects are on my Pinterest page, if you get the creative itch! I kid you not--these were all quite easy to do, and (I may be biased but...) I think they turned out great!

Well girls, that's all I've got for you today. Martha Stewart signing off here...I'm off to enjoy my cup of coffee and last night's Gossip Girl, ahhh another day off! And yes, I've got a few projects up my sleeve for today...stay tuned for those!

Happy Tuesday, chicks! I sure hope your days are wonderful.

I'll leave you with my favorite Bible verse...

Source: redletterwords.com via Rachel on Pinterest

{good for the soul}

2012-01-30T07:10:00.000-06:00

There are little things in life that make me stop, take a deep breath in, and thank the good Lord above for being in that moment. You know those moments--the ones that are just good for the soul. It's usually nothing earth shattering in my case, nothing to phone home about. But at the same time, it's the {simple little joys} that makes every day worth living through. Breathe, relax, and enjoy.

I never did my "word of the year" post, but this year I'm so eagerly wanting to be content. To be satisfied. To not want for anything. To love and live in the moment. To say I'm blessed with my situation/friends/family/life would be me making the understatement of the century, so I need to learn to enjoy every moment of the ride.

So today, I'm going to celebrate the little moments. I sound like a broken record, right? I desperately need to realize how many there are in my every day--how many times my heart wants to jump out of my chest from joyfulness, how often I'm overcome by a feeling from inside that can only be described as pure happiness. It's a blessing that I don't even notice half the time--shameful.

In lieu of skipping my {things I loved about this week} posts the past two Fridays, here's a little conglomeration of loves from the past week or so for my Monday morning. Hey, it's Monday, I'm feeling grateful with a side of miscellany.

I love a good list. And I love some blessings.

...having heart talks with a friend that knows you from the inside out {you can visit her blog here}

...hearing the excitement and love in his voice on the phone first thing in the morning when he calls to tell me good morning

...spending a day or two at home, acting like I still live with my parents. Being home-home does something to me that not many things can do...I'm a new person after a visit home!
...spending weekends in Starkville with wonderful, best friends
...new OPI nail polish...pleases the girly girl in me!
...late night laughs with my roommates
...seeing a few pounds drop off the scale after working hard to accomplish my goal
...having the fun opportunity to plan showers for sweet friends that are getting married
...having God change my perspective on faith {more on that later...}
...the thought that Andrew and I will be at the The Wizarding World of Harry Potter in 10 DAYS!!!!!
...getting to celebrate my precious Papa's birthday with my family
...roadtrips with my sister
...sleeping in on a rainy day--pure BLISS!
...crafting/Pinterest therapy...I'm telling you, it keeps me sane!
...the feeling of accomplishment when I finished Week 5/Day 1 of C25K. I am determined to reach this goal!
...reading sweet comments from all of you--nothing makes me happier!
...early morning reruns of Saved by the Bell
...spending hours on Etsy and spending too much money through PayPal {I totally use it as if it's Monopoly money or something...}
...finding little love notes all over my house from my honey

I'm feeling blessed and happy on this early Monday morning. I have today and tomorrow off work, so everything is looking sunny and happy. I have a crafting and coffee date with the wonderful Nicole {visit here} in a few hours...a lunch date with two of my besties tomorrow...and a Pinterest cooking date with my lovely Rebecca {visit here} tomorrow night! Oh, and I get a little bit of quality time with my main squeeze, too. Does life get much better than this?

Happy Monday, loves!

Source: cookingwiths.blogspot.com via Rachel on Pinterest

{open letters}

2012-01-26T06:59:00.000-06:00

My favorite, AP, over at I Love You More Than Carrots (visit here) is having a little fun with open letters this morning...letters to the universe, if you will. And just because she's so fabulous and I feel like writing a post at 6 am, I think I'll follow suit. Heck, why not? Time to gab, dish, confess, and complain for just a few minutes, all in good humor, of course.

Dear Internal Alarm Clock,

Maybe it's the black out shades in my room in Oxford...maybe it's because I went to bed at 9 pm...maybe it's because my home room is hot pink--either way, I'm not okay with this waking up at 5 am thing on my days off. I've become all too familiar with early morning infomercials. All I ask for is a little sleeping in until noon...is that so much to ask for?

Sincerely,

Bags Under My Eyes

Dear Victoria's Secret,

Thanks so much for the free coupons you send out in the mail. Especially the one for the free Valentine's Day thong. I'm just about to burst with excitement over getting the piece of string that you call underwear! I have only this one request--next time you send me one of those little postcards, can you please include Miranda Kerr's ass? That would be greatly appreciated. That's not too much to ask, right?

Please and thank you,

FatBottomedGirl

Dear Pinterest,

Why must you make all of your DIY projects so alluring? And why must you give poor, amateur crafters like me false hope that these endeavors will be easy? Sure, some turn out great--but then again, some just don't. Nevertheless, I will continue to craft ~~and sometimes fail miserably~~.

Your loyal fan,

Wannabe Martha Stewart

Dear Treadmill,

I have a feeling you're just being cruel and lying to me when I've totally been running for 4 miles already and I look down and see the distance measured--1.2 miles. Come on, help a sister out. The aches in my thighs are telling me it's further than 1.2 miles. Way to make me feel out of shape, friend. Thanks for the encouragement {sarcasm}

All my love,

Miss Outofshape

Dear Coffeemate Coconut Creamer,

Thank you for making getting up each day a little bit easier. The sun wouldn't be bearable without your glorious flavor. I always seem to stray away from you, but, as all true love goes, I can't help but come back. Your faithfulness astounds me. You never let me down. I will cease to exist the day those mean coffee people discontinue you.

My coffee and I love you,

Professional Caffeine Addict

Dear Cellulite and Tummy Jiggle,

We've had a long run--it's been real and it's been fun but it definitely hasn't been real fun. As per the letter up there to Ole Treadmill, you can see that I'm making every effort to send you on your merry way, so just go. Let's part peacefully. I'll make a deal with you--either make your way up to the boobage area, or just get the heck out. No, but really...it's time.

No, we can't still be friends,

Dimpled and Distraught

Dear Boyfriend,

I guess you deserve the only serious letter today. I love you, do I tell you that enough? I sure hope so. Every day you amaze me with how stressful and consuming your schedule is--and yet you never make me feel neglected. Thank you for working so hard. Thank you for doing everything with a smile, even when you're exhausted. You are the best man I know, and I'm the luckiest girl in the world to call you mine!

Love you til the end,

Your girlfriend

Happy soclosetofridayicanalmosttasteit Thursday, chicas!

{DIY: it's an addiction}

2012-01-25T08:18:00.001-06:00

I've been bit by the bug...
The DIY bug.
And I'm officially addicted.

Of course, along with every other woman in the world, I've been an avid Pinterester (like my word? I do, too.) for quite some time now.

But I've totes been guilty of pinning without planning...I pin, and then it goes to a board of mine to die.

With exception of the recipe section, (duh, I would make all the recipes but nothing else...) I can't think of a single other thing I've made. Shame on me, I know, right?

But yesterday, something magical happened...I started looking at Pinterest and actually had the desire to create these fabulous pins I was pinning...they were realistic and fun! The bug bit me right square on the butt. I even spent a little time on Etsy ordering some fun supplies for a few projects...call me Martha Stewart (minus the ankle alarm.)

So today for Pinteresting Wednesday, here are some of my upcoming projects. Whether they are a success or not, I'm gonna try and I'm gonna post to y'all about them, so hold me accountable, chicks!

{these are all on my "time to get creative" Pinterest board}

Chevron and glitter--this DIY was made for me.

Source: pennypincherfashion.com via Rachel on Pinterest

Actually ordered a big bulk of multi-colored buttons off of Etsy last night for CHEAP!
What word should I try for this? Any ideas?

Source: thedailytelecraft.com via Rachel on Pinterest

I'm hoping that Oxford and Greenwood are close enough on the map so
they both fit in the frame :)

Source: cinsarah.blogspot.com via Rachel on Pinterest

Wonder if my mom will notice when her grater is gone?

Source: bedifferentactnormal.com via Rachel on Pinterest

Raided the hardware store yesterday--got a few funny looks for having a
huge handful of paint samples, but whatev. I'm painting a rainbow room, duh.

Source: abeautifulmess.typepad.com via Rachel on Pinterest

Cute for Valentine's Day! I may do it in my room colors to use year round!

Source: abeautifulmess.typepad.com via Katie on Pinterest

These would be perfect in our household...

Source: alwaysorderdessert.com via Lora on Pinterest

I have a feeling this is going to be harder than it looks, but I will try anyway!

Source: rtroncampus.com via Rachel on Pinterest

Ahhh, a DIY Valentine's Day wreath. Going to buy some felt today!

Source: theidearoom.net via Shanda on Pinterest

Have any of you fallen prey to the DIY bug? If so...share your DIYs, I'm gonna need a fix soon--I can tell this is going to be my new addiction.

Do y'all ever shop on Etsy? What are your favorite stores?

I can't wait to hear all of your ideas! Share away, girlfriends. I'm off work today and expecting some crafting to happen SOON!

Happy, happy Wednesday to all of you!

{kari jobe}

2012-01-24T03:59:00.000-06:00

Let's talk a little about music, shall we?

I've been waiting for this Tuesday for quite a few

weeks now--a bit dramatic in words, but all the same true. I'm a huge Kari Jobe fan--so as soon as I heard her new album was on iTunes for pre-order, of course, I bought it.

And last night at work, I may or may not have jumped up and down when I got en email from iTunes saying it was ready for download.

If you love worship music, download this CD. Just go ahead and spend the few bucks that it costs, because I can guarantee it'll be worth that and so much more.

...I haven't even listened to it in its entirety yet, but what I have heard only makes me that much more excited for the remaining songs.

That girl knows how to praise God. She knows how to sing to His heart...she knows how to cut out all of the hoopla and really get into the heart of worship--a girl after my own heart.

I've needed a little spiritual "umph" these past few days, and I think it's no coincidence that her CD showed up in my iTunes when it did...

Our God is a mighty, powerful, amazing God, isn't he?

I'll leave you with this song: listen to it and then go download her album.

I can say without doubt that this morning's run will be quite enjoyable with this going in my ears...running with worship--what's better?

Happy Tuesday, my friends!

{Pinterest Love}

2012-01-18T09:10:00.000-06:00

I've always been a red and pink kinda girl. Pink has always been my default favorite color, so of course, a holiday that centers around all things red, pink, and lovely is made for me.

With that being said, of course, as soon as Christmas and New Year's passed, I was already jumping to the next holiday. Good ole Valentine's Day. And you better bet your bottom dollar that I've already been pinning said red and pink things since January 2nd. I'm a total holiday jumper--I just can't help but be festive!

So, in Pinteresting Wednesday fashion, let's talk a little Valentine's Day...after all, it is less than a month away. Can you believe it? I'm kinda loving love right now, so let's just dive right in, shall we?

Source: joeandcheryl.com via Rachel on Pinterest

Source: bing.com via Rachel on Pinterest

Source: eighteen25.blogspot.com via Rachel on Pinterest

Source: bakedperfection.com via Rachel on Pinterest

Source: marthastewart.com via Rachel on Pinterest

Source: nikkiinstitches.com via Rachel on Pinterest

Source: iambaker.net via Rachel on Pinterest

Source: etsy.com via Beth on Pinterest

I apologize sincerely if you are a Valentine's Day hater, but I just can't help but get excited about all of those little treats up there. Aren't they precious? I have some apothecary jars on their way to my house as we speak that will soon be Valentine'd up, and I can't wait. And I'm brainstorming on how to make the XO wreath for myself--we'll see how that goes!

Maybe it's the love of a certain fella, maybe it's just the pink and the red--either way, I'm loving all of these Valentine happies and I'm feeling mighty festive!

I wanna know--what are your opinions about Valentine's Day? Love it or hate it?

Happy Hump Day, all of you lovely ladies!

{would you rather...}

2012-01-16T06:20:00.000-06:00

Well good morning all of you lovely ladies! Monday is here with a vengeance, isn't it? What is it about Mondays that gets all of our panties in a wad? Hopefully you haven't been bit by the Manic Monday bug just yet, but either way, I think we'll have a little fun this morning...

Source: Uploaded by user via Kimmie on Pinterest

{this is me throwing a little fun into Monday, duh}

We're gonna play a game of "Would You Rather..." A friend and I were having a game of this over text the other night when I was at work, and it was quite entertaining. I figured why not bring a little bit of it to the blog and see what you gals think, too?

Leave a comment, post your own, do whatever your little heart desires.

Just join in and have a good time!

So grab your orange juice and take a swig, we're gonna get into the nitty gritty now.

Oh, and of course, I'll put in my two cents in italics...

Would you rather be given $5,000, no questions asked or lose 20 lbs with the guarantee of never gaining it back?

I honestly think I'd pick the weight--I think being happy with myself is better than the happiness money could buy!

Would you rather be poor and work in a job you absolutely love or be rich and work in a job you hate going to?

Let me be cliche for a minute and pick the job that I absolutely love. You can't take the money with you, right?

Would you rather have your flight delayed by 8 hours or lose your luggage, only finding it after your trip is over?

Flight delayed, for sure. I take too long and put too much thought into packing.

Would you rather go without Internet or car for a month?

Well, I'd be skinny if I picked the car one, but I guess realistically I'd have to say Internet. I'd just totally be out of the loop, in a sad, sad way.

Would you rather be a member of the cast of Friends or Sex and the City?

Ummm, hello....Friends, without a doubt. For sure.

Would you rather date someone 20 years older or 10 years younger?

Well, dating someone 10 years younger for me would be a 13 year old and that's just creepy, so I'll say 20 years older. Age is only a number?

Would you rather always have to say anything that comes to your mind or never be able to speak?

I have entirely too many inappropriate thoughts to say anything that comes to my mind, so I suppose I'll be learning how to mime or use sign language.

Would you rather marry Kris Humphries or Scott Disick?

Can I pick neither? Okay, okay, I guess Scott. Kris drives me absolutely crazy.

Would you rather be banned from Facebook or Blogger?

Well, first, I'd die. But then I think I'd have to choose Facebook. I get really sick of FB sometimes, so maybe I could get over that obsession.

Would you rather skip Christmas or your birthday?

Totes would pick my birthday. I'd much rather celebrate Christmas, because it essentially lasts a whole month, ya know? My birthday is measly compared to Christmas. Just as long as I get a piece ~~or three~~ of birthday cake.

So girls, what would you choose?! How about y'all join in and tell me what you'd rather do! It's bound to be entertaining.

Happy Monday to you and you and you! Hope it's a wonderful start to a fabulous week!

Remember...

Source: sweetpeachblog.com via Nicole on Pinterest

{reasons I've loved this week: volume II}

2012-01-13T06:42:00.003-06:00

Friday already? {Just realized it's Friday the 13th--watch out for any black cats...} I swear, with another few blinks, it will already be 2013.

I'm not doing a very good job with keeping up my blog so far in 2012. I'm still here, girls, and I'm still faithfully reading your blogs and loving your lives, I promise. It's been a whole week since I last posted, and while there are a million things I want to say, need to say...I can't find the words or the energy to just get on here and write.

I worked Friday night-Monday night of this past week, and that in itself absolutely wore me out. It's so hard for me to work night shift sometimes, much less 12+ hours on my feet, much less 4 nights in.a.row. I seriously only saw the people I work with for 4 days straight. I definitely had a moment or two where I questioned why I ever chose this profession (I was that exhausted and burnt out.)

But then, in the next second, I remember why, through the hug of a pediatric patient or the laugh of a new mama holding her newborn, I am in love with what I do. It makes me me. And I have joy again, even though I am worn out past the point of just being tired, and I have a reason to smile.

So in the midst of me complaining about the little things that steal my happiness, I have about ten bazillion other reasons to be joyful. So, friends, here are just a few of the reasons {little as they may be} that I've loved this week.

{one} I wake up to this little love note beside my bed... I am thankful for the sweet reminders he leaves me all over the place...my mirror, stuck in a book, hidden in a pocket of my scrub top. He's a keeper!

{two} I've been off work for the majority of this week, and I can't even begin to tell you how refreshing and re-charging it is to simply sleep at night, instead of napping during the day. I sleep like a baby when it's dark outside, and that in itself is a blessing!

{three} I took the GRE yesterday (after not studying enough...) The GRE is a test that is required for admission into a graduate school, in case you've never heard of it. 3 hours in front of a computer screen is enough to make your eyes cross, but it actually wasn't that bad. I scored higher than I expected to, and higher than I was aiming for, so I'm quite happy and relieved! One step closer to getting my Masters...

{four} My dad sent me this picture of my little brother last night...not so little anymore. He's the star basketball player, duh. So proud of my little T! {Isn't he handsome, btw?!}

{five} I've been on my healthy kick for 2 weeks now and I've lost 7.5 lbs! It feels great for my pants to be a little less snug...no muffin top is good news to me! I really have to figure out how to balance work and working out though, because with that many nights in a row, the last thing I have time to do/want to do is run. But I've managed to still work out at least 5 days a week, so I'm happy with myself. Btw, MyFitnessPal is a lifesaver--I don't know what I'd do without it now that I'm back on the healthy track!

{six} Favorite movie. In 3D. In the movie theater. Tonight. I may or may not already have tickets to see it...

{seven} My sweet mama and grandmother are on their way to Oxford this morning to take me and my sister to lunch. There's nothing like a little quality time with my favorite girls. I may be almost 24 and out on my own, but I'll admit--I still get homesick now and then. I'm so glad they're coming to bring a little bit of home to me :)

{eight} Andrew randomly decided that he wants us to go to Chicago in April...and of course I'm all in. Gotta follow up with my "travel more" resolution, right? Have any of y'all been to Chicago? What are some must-do things that we can't leave off our list? I'm getting excited...really hope this trip happens!

What have you loved about this week?

Happy Friday to my favorites!

{reasons I've loved this week}

2012-01-06T10:52:00.000-06:00

With a new year comes the chance to be more grateful, more thankful for the little moments, more aware of and content with every second, every day, every week.

So every now and then, on random Fridays, I think I'll be posting reasons I've loved the past week, anything from a good cup of coffee to a fabulous event and everything in between. I'm doing this in hopes that the time doesn't just fly by like it has been lately--I really want to relish in every moment and memory of 2012 and realize how blessed I am.
So here we go!

{one} I was off Tuesday night, Wednesday night, and last night, and I can't tell you how refreshing it is to have 3 nights off in a row after working the crazy schedule I've been working. I'm a big believer in recharging my batteries, and that's just what I've done! Bring on the next 4 nights of work!

{two} I made this recipe last night and it was DELISH. I just wish it was a little healthier so I could have a bigger portion (or two or three...)...give me anything Mexican and I'm goooood to go. I'm telling ya--I could seriously just bathe in cheese dip. I'm a chip and dip fanatic!

Source: thewaytohisheart.wordpress.com via Rachel on Pinterest

{three} I've officially been back on my workout kick for a week now, and I really feel so much better. I'm not weighing until Monday but I already can tell a difference in my waistline. I hate/despise/loathe going to the gym, but the best feeling in the world is getting off that treadmill when I'm done, knowing I've run my hardest! I may not be the best runner in the world, but I'll get there eventually...hopefully. This is what I keep telling myself:

Source: adailystumble.tumblr.com via Rachel on Pinterest

{four} I got to rock this sweet little baby to sleep this morning. There is nothing sweeter than a sleeping baby! My roomie is keeping a friend's baby all day today--I'm telling you, I can't wait to have a bunch of my own, but goodness, it's free birth control today!

{five} I've gotten to catch up with a handful of my sweet friends this week...following up on my resolution of being more intentional with phone calls and visits! I don't know what it is about talking on the phone--because I could pretty much talk to a wall, I just hate talking on the phone. But, I've been reminded this week of just how much I need those calls and those laughs and encouragement of friends. I even got to have lunch with my precious friend, Holley, who was home for a few days. I sure am blessed!

Source: outcamethesun.tumblr.com via Rachel on Pinterest

{six} Every time I open my Reader, I have new followers, and I'm loving every bit of it! It makes me so happy to have new visitors in my little corner of the world...thanks for following, and I sure hope you keep reading my daily rambles. Do me a little favor--if you're a new follower, leave me a comment! I'd love to "meet" you and get to know you! Let me know a little about yourself or where to find your blog. There's nothing I love more than making new blog friends!

{seven} I'm l-o-v-i-n-g my MacBook. Like loving it with a capital L and sugar on top. It's fabulous, and I may or may not have been spending a little too much time on it. Hey, it's new...I'm sure the obsession will wear off soon. One thing I'm dying to try out is the webcam--to post a vlog or to not post a vlog...that is the real question. I have no idea what I'd talk about--maybe I should do a Q&A post like I've been seeing on other blogs. Anything you're just itching to know about me??? (since I'm so entertaining and all...)

{eight} I bought this pretty dress this week (after fashion consulting some of you via Twitter) and I'm pretty excited about it finally arriving on my door step. I have a feeling I'll be wearing it to a wedding or two in the next few months (since everyone in the world is getting married.) Classic and pretty, isn't it? Let's hope I can fit into it :)

Happy Friday, girls. TGIF to all of you--think fond memories of me working all weekend while you're enjoying your days off! Can't wait to hear all about your weekends.

What have been your favorite parts of this week?

people say the darnedest things

2012-01-03T06:07:00.001-06:00

For those of y'all that didn't know, I'm a nurse. And I absolutely love what I do.

So, as a nurse, I deal with people all day, every day...or rather all night, in my case.

And here's a newsflash--people are weird. And people have no filters. The things they say just kill me sometimes, and the past few nights have been no exception.

It isn't just kids who say the darnedest things--grown-ups may beat them out of that title.

For your Tuesday morning entertainment, here are just a few of the recent quotes I've heard (which have all happened over the past 72 hours...)

...my thoughts are in italics. All in good fun, of course.

"You mean y'all aren't going to breastfeed the baby in the nursery while I'm sleeping?"...ummm, no ma'am, that's your job--we don't offer a breastfeeding service because that's just plain wrrrooonnngg. Did she really expect us to whip our boobs out for that child?

To me: "Has anyone ever told you that you look just like Demi Moore?"...that pain medicine sure is working well on you, lady, but hey--a compliment is a compliment!

"Did somebody come in my room and feed my baby while I was asleep? He looks like he's fatter than he was a few hours ago"...I didn't even know how to respond to this.

Woman to husband who was helping her to the bathroom: "Yeah, you better get up and drag my IV pole behind me--if it wasn't for you, I wouldn't be in this mess!"...mental note--don't laugh out loud next time.

"Is it okay if I kiss the baby on the forehead?"...I thought this was a joke. But it was a legit question, so when I giggled, all I got back was a blank stare. Awkward.

A family member: "Can I, like, order some chicken strips or a pizza or something from y'all? Do y'all do that? I'm just starving. Is there a cafeteria up here?"...I looked around, thinking he saw a delivery man somewhere, but no...sir, do I look like a waitress?

Needless to say, I've been pretty dumbfounded this weekend with people's comments. I've laughed quite hard this past weekend, and I'm definitely not complaining. Never a dull moment, I'm tellin' ya! But I sure am thankful that I stay entertained up here.

Well, I'm off work for the next 3 nights (woo for 3 nights off!!) Andrew and I are going shopping today in Memphis--I'm looking forward to some quality away time with my honey, but pray that we don't kill each other in the middle of Target.

That should be an adventure in itself!

Happy Tuesday, y'all!

Here's to 2012.

2012-01-02T04:35:00.000-06:00

Well hey there, 2012.

I can't believe it's already 2012. I feel like I just got used to writing 2011 on everything. New year. I love the idea of a fresh calendar, fresh start. Clean slate...something about that is just promising to me. The sky's the limit for 2012, and I can't wait to see what's in store.

Source: etsy.com via Allison on Pinterest

2011, I'll be sad to see you go. What an adventure it was! I celebrated the New Year in Jackson with my best friends (and kissed Andrew for the first time!). Attended a bazillion weddings, showers, and engagement parties and loved every single one of them. Welcomed baby Nelson to the world! Saw Celine in concert in Vegas and celebrated my 23rd birthday. Stood beside my best friend as her maid of honor and watched her marry her Prince Charming. I fell in love when I least expected it. Spent the 4th of July on the beach with my best friends. Turned my life upside down and moved back to Oxford and started a new job. Enjoyed many Saturdays in the Grove, watching the Rebels lose (womp womp). Realized how much I loved working in women's health and pediatrics. Went to more concerts than I can count (Hanson, Zac Brown Band, Needtobreathe, Ben Rector, etc.) Partied for Bachelorette weekends. Lost friendships but found out who my true friends were in the process. Spent Thanksgiving with my family--mine and Andrew's first together. Celebrated Mary Gwen and Scott's wedding right before Christmas. Went skydiving. Acted like birthdays were national holidays. Spent a spontaneous long weekend on the beach, soaking up sun and precious time with my family. Had many ups and downs with my weight loss journey. Enjoyed every second of the holidays with friends and family. Reunited with friends I've known for almost 2 decades for the Annual Christmas Party. And I have a feeling 2012 is going to be even better, if that's possible.

Source: dearmusketeer.blogspot.com via Julie on Pinterest

I love the start of a new year. So much potential. So much hope.

My intentions for this year... Master the GRE. Run a 5K. And then run another one. Go to Harry Potter World when we're in Orlando. Get into grad school. Be more proactive in my friendships. Spend more time with my family. Find a church that I love in Oxford and stay committed to it. Be better about phone relationships with long distance friends. Travel more. Get into a workout routine and stick to it. Send more birthday cards. Cook dinner at least 3 nights a week. Read the Bible every day. Drink less Diet Coke. Laugh more. Cry more. Be more outspoken with my real feelings. Encourage my friends in a genuine way. Be a better girlfriend. Give back more to others around me. Call my grandparents more than just once a week. Fit back into my "skinny" jeans that I bought when I reached my goal weight. Spend a week at the beach. Go see my Rebels play on the road. Be involved in some type of Bible study. Make a list of books to read and read them all. Create a budget and actually use it. Take more pictures. Savor every moment.
Love more. Live more. Be a better me.

Source: sarahearn.blogspot.com via Martha on Pinterest

Enjoy the ride, y'all. The best is yet to come...

A New Year's Mantra

2011-12-30T06:00:00.000-06:00

Source: thetaoofdana.com via Rachel on Pinterest

Happy Friday, sweet friends.
Ring in the New Year in style.
Wishing and hoping for lots of joy, happiness, blessings,
and success for you and yours in the coming year.
2011 was fabulous--2012 has some big shoes to fill.
Let's see if it can fulfill my expectations--bring it, 2012.
:)

birchbox.

2011-12-29T08:19:00.000-06:00

Also known as my latest obsession.

Two things I love? Samples and beauty products. And when you combine the two of those things, you just can't go wrong in my opinion. Put me in a Sephora and I'm good to go for hours on end.

So when I read about Birchbox on another blog a few months ago, I was immediately interested. So imagine my delight when I checked my mail yesterday and this little package was sitting in my mailbox. Sheer excitement!

Birchbox is a company (started by two women, duh) that helps us beauty seekers try out samples of popular products from luxury brands each month. This cute little box arrives in your mailbox filled with 4 or 5 samples of anything from makeups and hair care to perfumes and skin care.

Pretty much the coolest little box you'll ever receive in the mail.

I'm loving the samples I got this month--the perfect amount for me to try out to decide whether or not buying the full size is worth it or not.

My favorite things this month?

-Twirl fragrance by Kate Spade...definitely buying the full size with some Christmas money. The quote on the package--"she had a cocktail in her hand and confetti in her hair"--love!

-Face Glow By Terry...totally skipped my foundation last night and just used this--looks like my bare skin, without the redness and blemishes. I love the fresh face look and this doesn't disappoint.

-And the verdict is up in the air about that bright pink lip gloss you see up there in the picture...a little intense for my fancy, but I figured it may just be perfect for a fun night out, maybe New Year's Eve! Andrew and I have a hot faux NYE date tomorrow night, so I may just break out the fuchsia for the occasion. We shall see.

I sure wish this came more than once a month...

Birchbox didn't sponsor this post, I just love this idea and wanted to share with all of you!

Have any of you heard about Birchbox? Opinions? I think it's totally fun and can't wait to keep trying out products...I'm crossing my fingers for some Nars or Stila makeup next time!

Happy Thursday, y'all! I'm off for two nights so I intend on soaking up every.single.minute of free time. Hope your day is fantastic!

Hump Day Blurbs.

2011-12-28T08:26:00.000-06:00

Hey there people. It's Hump Day. And all I've got for you are some random thoughts.

I really like the word blurb...and I really feel like blurbing today. So here goes.

...I have days when I just feel too stagnant. Too comfortable with life and where I am at the moment. So naturally, my brain gets going. I start plotting and planning--trying to figure out the best next step for me. And I realized that now is just as good a time as any...I'm attempting to start the daunting process of applying to grad school. Getting my Nurse Practitioner's license--yikes. Just the thought of it makes me tremble.

...The genius (sarcasm...) idea of going back to school entails me taking the GRE. Bring on the vocabulary words, verbal reasoning, and quantitative problems--oh joy! I just love a good right triangle. So far I've learned words such as panegyrical and apogee (a.k.a. words that no one know.) It makes feel productive and a bit stupid all at the same time.

...And I figured, while I'm putting forth a little productive effort, I may as well take the jump and sign up for a 5K. I'm desperately needing some inspiration and motivation to get this butt back into shape. Eeek, a 5K. My first one. (And now I'm kinda kicking myself in the pants for signing up for it like it was no big deal...) What have I done to prepare, you ask? Oh, nothing. Someone please send a sister some encouragement. This task is already making me shake in my running shoes. (Side note: to use Couch to 5K or no? Any tips from you runners?)

...I'm currently typing to you from my brand spanking new MacBook Pro...a surprise Christmas present from mi madre and padre. I was absolutely ecstatic, to say the least. But now, I sort of feel like my grandmother trying to navigate herself through Facebook--clueless. Surely there's some Mac for Dummies book, right? I hope it doesn't take me forever to catch onto how to use this beauty--because I'm slightly obsessed with it, even if I only know how to get to the Internet. Baby steps.

...I've diagnosed myself with Post-Christmas Depression Disorder, more commonly known as PCDD. Symptoms noted are episodes of tears in front of the dwindling Christmas decor, prolonged sleeping to avoid the lack of holiday spirit, and excess eating of leftover Christmas sweets. I've yet to find a remedy, but I'll be sure to let you know if any breakthroughs in my condition are made.

...We just got our work schedules today for the next 6 weeks, and let me just tell you--it's about a bajillion times better than this past one. Granted, it was the holidays AND I was off for Christmas, both those 3 nights on back to back are making me a zombie nurse and a MIA friend/daughter/sister/girlfriend. Hence the lack of blogging... I almost did a backflip behind the nurse's station (& good thing I was at the hospital because I would've needed the ER after a stunt such as that.) I even have 8 days off in A ROW towards the end of February...amazing, right? Everything is looking good from my eyes at the moment.

...and last but not least, I won't spill my heart out about Christmas, because of course, it was absolutely perfect. But I will show you a few pictures to compensate for all the words this post has had. Christmas is my bff. Already counting down the days until my favorite season comes around again...

Happy Wednesday, y'all. It's my bedtime...one more night at work and then twoooo off!

Hope your Wednesdays are wonderful!

{fill in the blank Friday: Christmas edition}

2011-12-23T08:31:00.000-06:00

I can't get over the fact that Christmas is 2 days away.

It's Christmas Eve Eve, y'all.

Where did December go? I am literally counting down the hours until I get to go home--a day full of sleep and then one 12 hour night shift is all that separates me from 2 days with my wonderful family celebrating the birth of our Savior!

Brings tears to my eyes just thinking about it...

So in usual Friday style, my thoughts are all over the place. So therefore I remedy that with a little Fill in the Blank...and it's the Christmas edition, so even better!

{one} The best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear, duh. But no really--giving more than you receive. Being selfless and doing more for others than you do for yourself...best feeling in the world.

{two} The thing I love most about Christmas is getting to spend time surrounded by all of the people I love. Everything slows down for just a brief moment in time, and everything in the world is perfect, cozy, and wonderful.

{three} The holiday season is a time for being thankful for all of the things we are blessed with, making memories with the people you love the most, and celebrating the birth of our Savior! Jesus is the reason for the season!

{four} favorite thing to eat at the holidays is anything and everything my grandmothers make. Ahhh, sweet Southern food. Worth every single little calorie. The gym can wait until later, right?

{five} I will be spending Christmas in Greenwood with my family!! BOTH nights...which is unheard of in a nurse's world. I am so blessed to be off work and able to be home for Christmas Eve AND Christmas Day! We'll be doing all of the usual Christmas traditions, with Andrew added in on Christmas afternoon :) I am the luckiest, happiest girl alive!

{six} Tis better to (give or receive?) give, without a doubt. My roommate and I were just talking yesterday about how much we've genuinely loved Christmas shopping for family and friends this year. I absolutely love finding the perfect gift for someone and seeing the look on their face when they open it--priceless and wonderful. Giving to others gives back more than I ever realized it could!

{seven} I'm dreaming of a cozy, filled-with-love, happy, wonderful Christmas.

I could just burst right now, I am so happy. The anticipation of what's to come in the next few days is just about enough to overwhelm my heart and bring tears to my eyes--geez, I'm such a huge sap. Christmas just does this to me.

To all of my wonderful readers and blog bffs, I wish you the most wonderful Christmas. I hope you and your family and friends enjoy celebrating the reason for the season, and I hope many more memories are made. Hug them tight, kiss them, and let them know how much you love them. And have yourself a merry little Christmas :)

a faith like Mary's

2011-12-22T06:52:00.001-06:00

I want more than anything to have a faith like Mary's.

Last week, I went home to celebrate my Mama's birthday with my family. One of her favorite Christmas songs is "A Baby Changes Everything" by Faith Hill, so naturally, I heard it a few times while I was with her. I had probably heard that song a dozen times before I really heard it. And when I heard it, it hit me.

Hearing the nativity story, I've always been so focused on picturing Mary as an ordinary, lowly, meek girl that God used in a huge way--I've never really thought about how extraordinary her faith was. How huge, bold, and unwavering her faith was--such a contrast to the picture I've always had of her.

Picture this. A teenage girl--much, much younger than any of us. Unmarried. Still living under her parents roof. Innocent in every way, simply trying to live her life to glorify God. And the Creator of the Universe chose her to carry His Son, to carry the Savior of the world. Can you imagine? I think I would've passed smooth out right then and there...but Mary simply said yes. Without hesitation, just followed her God in obedience, trusting that His will was greater than her will. She didn't make excuses, she didn't ask for some grand sign. She just said, "Yes, Lord, yes."

"My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for He has looked with favor on the lowliness of His servant. Surely, from now on all generations will call me blessed; for the Mighty One has done great things for me, and holy is His name."

Luke 1:46-49

It gives me chills...every time I read this passage, my eyes fill up with tears. She didn't question His plan, she just went with it. She didn't hide in fear, she didn't let her fear get the best of her--she just trusted. I want more than anything to have more Mary moments in my life.

I pray that I can surrender to His will as humbly and faithfully as she did. I can't imagine the ways that God would use me if I just had faith like Mary's.

{holly jolly Christmas}

2011-12-21T08:10:00.001-06:00

I'm all about some traditions when it comes to the Christmas season. There are so many traditions that we have that make the holiday season special and truly complete to me--from the decorating the Christmas tree as a family and the parties to making Christmas cookies for Santa and reading the Christmas story around the tree on Christmas Eve. This year hasn't been any different--keeping old traditions and making new ones.

Nothing makes me happier!

Monday night was our Annual Christmas party/Dirty Santa with my group of girlfriends...I think we're on the 8th (?) year and counting. We talk about it all during the year and can't wait for all of us to be back together during the Christmas season--really one of my favorite nights of the year!

This year was a little different because we're all grown up and living in different cities--and it being on a Monday night kinda threw a curve ball to those that had to work the next morning. So granted, our crowd was a little slimmer, but there was definitely just as much fun had and memories made. I honestly really just enjoyed being able to sit with 5 of my best friends in the same room and talk. Talk about anything and everything--I miss that so much.

These girls are such a blessing to me. They're the ones who know me inside and out and love me through thick and thin. I've known some of these girls for over TWO decades. I've lived with 3 of them. They'll be standing beside me on my wedding day. And I love them to pieces!

Mama's tree...my favorite.

And with new traditions, Morgan, Faye, and I had our roommate Christmas last night after stuffing our faces with our fav Mexican food. My roommates are wonderful. I loved getting to celebrate Christmas with two of my very best friends--they're my Oxford family. So thankful for them! We had such a good time opening our gifts--I must say, we did pretty well on our gift buying (thanks to wish lists...they're the best.)

It really is the most wonderful time of the year!

{a very tacky Christmas}

2011-12-19T07:00:00.000-06:00

Per tradition around these parts, the holidays absolutely must include some type of Tacky Christmas party. Actually, t's really just an excuse for everyone to don the funniest, most hilarious Christmas outfit possible, while indulging in lots of good food and maybe a few cups of Jingle Juice.

It's a grand ole time all around, folks.

Here's the proof...

...and be sure to click to enlarge, because you're gonna

wanna see every detail of this shindig!

There's nothing I love more than a good party, so throw in some fabulous people and a polyester Mrs Claus dress and I'm as happy as can be! Merry merry!

I'm definitely having myself a merry little Christmas so far :)

Happy Monday, y'all!

S-I-X days until Christmas!!!

{bucket list}

2011-12-16T07:11:00.010-06:00

Whoaaa, Friday already? This week is completely flew by. Only n-i-n-e days until Christmas. We're down to single digits, people. I just can't seem to wrap my mind around that...

So, Bucket List Time...

A new year is approaching, and with the flip of the calendar comes lots of resolutions and changes. Lately, I've noticed on Pinterest lots of tags titled "bucket list" from a specific blog/Tumblr, and I've seriously loved a lot of them. I really like the idea of adding onto a bucket list instead of making resolutions that I know I'll never keep. Therefore, I created a Bucket List pin board, and have started pinning my favorites...here are just a few.

What do I want to do before I die?

Source: perfectbucketlist.tumblr.com via Rachel on Pinterest

Source: perfectbucketlist.tumblr.com via Chelsea on Pinterest

Source: runningandbeautifulabs.tumblr.com via Jill on Pinterest

Source: perfectbucketlist.tumblr.com via Rachel on Pinterest

Source: Uploaded by user via Rachel on Pinterest

Source: perfectbucketlist.tumblr.com via Rachel on Pinterest

...just to name a few :)

Happy Friday, y'all. Hope your weekends are wonderful!

{Wedding Weekend}

2011-12-13T06:34:00.000-06:00

Pardon my long absence lately, a terrible sinus infection has taken over my body and has held me captive in my bed for the past few days. No fear--I'm finally starting to feel a little better, so I figured it was time for a little blog updating!

And what a weekend to update on...

I love me some weddings. Any wedding and every wedding. But it's so much more special when you're celebrating with one of your very best friends--makes the whole weekend even more wonderful. My precious friend, Mary Gwen, got hitched this past weekend, and the wedding was absolutely incredible. We had such a wonderful time celebrating their big day, and every detail of the event was absolutely stunning!

This verse is so perfect for Scott and Mary Gwen...

The weather was perfect (cold, but gorgeous,) the friends were all in attendance, and I think everyone celebrated their little hearts out! And I got sick as a dog...but totally worth it!

Mary Gwen's house (reception site) on the morning of the wedding

Stunning, gorgeous bride!

Our fabulous bridesmaid bouquets

First dance with the sweetest couple!

Still dreaming about this cake...totally delicious!

Cutting the cake!

Best friend! Loved being with you all weekend :)

Have you ever seen a more gorgeous bride? Didn't think so!

These are just a few snapshots I got on my phone this weekend--can't wait to see photos that our friends took! We really had such a great time...perfect weekend right in the midst of all of the holiday festivities!

Speaking of holidays--here's the finished Dillard family Christmas card for 2011. Turned out pretty great, I think!

(front and back)

Happy Tuesday, friends!

12 days until Christmas :)

{menu monday}

2011-12-05T06:55:00.001-06:00

{a.k.a. the post where I just want to talk about food... #fatgirlblogpost}

'Tis the season for lots of Christmas celebrations and parties...and when you mention a party, of course, the first thing I think of is the food. And lots of it.

Food is what the party revolves around, right? Since I'll be playing host to a number of different parties in the next few weeks, I've been scouring Pinterest for creative holiday eats/drink ideas. As I expected, I've found a bazillion and four things I want to make...

Here are just a few of them:
(how cute and creative are these!? I mean really.)

Source: tidymom.net via Rachel on Pinterest

Source: lhj.com via Rachel on Pinterest

Source: google.com via Miranda on Pinterest

Source: mommysavers.com via Rachel on Pinterest

Source: squidoo.com via Rachel on Pinterest

Source: flickr.com via Sydney on Pinterest

Source: traceylau.com via Sarah on Pinterest

Source: hgtv.com via Annie on Pinterest

I'll be super impressed if your mouth isn't watering at this point...

I can guarantee mine is, and now I can't wait to get to baking!

What are your go-to recipes for the Christmas season??

Anything that I just must make? Fill me in :)

Happy Monday, y'all!

The Big GIVE & Confessional Friday

2011-12-02T10:33:00.000-06:00

There's something that's been on my heart lately, and I wanted to share it before I started my ~~silly~~ confessions. I guess this is kinda of a confession in itself, but a serious, heart-felt one.

Sometimes, I really have to remind myself that Christmas isn't about the parties, the ornaments, the wrapping, the presents, the decorations, the food, and so on...It's about Jesus. Jesus is the reason for the season. Only Jesus. I so quickly lose site of that when every day out of December is already planned out.

Jesus led a life that was all about sacrifice, about giving of himself, about being selfless. So in the spirit of Christmas, of Jesus and what this season is really about, sweet Nicole posted this blog post this morning (click here.) Please go read it, and please pray about it and donate, if you can, to help us buy a water filter for a family.

Samaritan's Purse is near and dear to my heart--my mother has always made it a priority for each of us children to pick something out of the Gift Catalog (not only for us to follow Jesus' commands for us, but to truly make us realize how blessed we are.) It can be as simple as school supplies for a family for a year, running water for a family, blankets, or hot meals, but that can change someone's life.

I pray that we can reach out to those less fortunate than us, and make a difference this Christmas season, because after all--isn't that what it's really all about?

Okay, now before I get all emotional and start preaching, let me get a little light hearted now...you gotta have a little fun with the deep, right? It's Friday, so yes.

Some days, a girl just needs to vent. Lucky for me, that day is today.
{Linking up with my blog bestie, Leslie from A Blonde Ambition}

These are my confessions (bad, cliche Usher reference, sorry.)

{one} Some days, I would swear to you that I have a big neon sign on me that says "Please annoy me," because my gosh--people really wear me down some days. I had one of those days yesterday, where almost every person I came in contact with grated on my last nerve. (Maybe my patience was a little thin?) The only remedies for days like this are lots of prayers, slow, deep breaths and a little bit of wine.

{two} On aforementioned "annoyed" days, I sometimes go to the tanning bed just to be alone for 15 minutes. (Tanning should be my confession, huh? Whoops.) Tanning bed naps are the bessst. Oh, and just to make it known--I'm only going for a few visits so I don't look like Casper the friendly ghost in MG's wedding next weekend. I don't fake bake on the reg.

{three} As I just mentioned, I'm in one of my bff's wedding's next weekend and I'm super excited about it. But even more than the excitement I'm feeling--the anxiety over picking out/packing/coordinating THREE different dressy outfits. Dress, coat, tights, shoes, jewelry, bag x 3!? Cue panic. Where's my Rachel Zoe when I need her? Hello, Rach--you out there? Help me.

{four} I feel slightly detached now that I've finished all of the Harry Potter books...what am I supposed to do with my life/time now? I get wayyy too attached to fictional characters. I may have cried at the end of Deathly Hallows, but you'll never know. I really, seriously, kinda pathetically love those books.

{five}I may have (just for a split second, really) considered buying an elf on a shelf just to have around our house. But really--oh my goodness, the ideas for the elf's mischief are so precious. That will be one of our very first Christmas traditions with future kids.

{six} We're having a Tacky Christmas Party in a few weeks (just wait for that post...) and a couple that you may know (hint: me and A) miiiight be going as Santa and Mrs Claus...should be interesting, huh? I know you're just itching to see these pictures now. It's gonna be a rockin' around the Christmas tree good time.

{seven} I pushed my snooze button over 9 times this morning. Which let me sleep for an extra hour and a half. Good thing I didn't really have anything to do/anywhere to go, but now I most likely won't be able to sleep at all this afternoon, which I'll just love come 3 am tomorrow morning at work. Ohh, how I love the night shift.

Whew, it feels good to get that off my chest. (As if I just confessed something serious or something...I'm so dramatic.)

Happy Friday, woo! Hope your weekends are fabulous and wonderful.
Ho ho ho and fa la la la la!

Oh, How Pinteresting Wednesday

2011-11-30T07:00:00.000-06:00

I just love when I'm actually off work in the middle of the week...not only do I actually get to sleep during the nighttime, I also get to share with y'all all of the stalking I do on Pinterest at 2 in the morning.

Just a few things I'm currently loving...

To my best friends (you know who you are):

Source: t2.gstatic.com via Caitlin on Pinterest

I'll take one of each, please and thank you...

Source: studiowicked.blogspot.com via Lee Anna on Pinterest

The sad, sad truth...

Source: someecards.com via Lisa on Pinterest

Ummm, my future child will most definitely wear this one Halloween

Source: spearmintbaby.com via Rachel on Pinterest

Did you know they make Somee cards about me? Because this is totally me...

Source: google.com via Megan on Pinterest

Favorite show. Love me some Swarley. Only a true HIMYM fan would get that...

Source: google.com.au via Rachel on Pinterest

Neuschwanstein Castle in Germany...I've been here. But really, I seriously have.

It's even more incredible in person.

Source: flickr.com via Rachel on Pinterest

Source: Uploaded by user via Katherine on Pinterest

I usually hate brown and black together but this is fabulous. Must have!

Source: graphicdesignconfessions.blogspot.com via Page on Pinterest

Source: thehouseofsmithsdesigns.com via Erica on Pinterest

Too much cuteness in one picture

Source: Uploaded by user via Denise on Pinterest

Source: uniquelynormalmom.com via KyleLind on Pinterest

I better stop before I get carried away.

Happy Hump Day, y'all!

Listen Up, Y'all...

2011-11-29T07:49:00.000-06:00

I'm here today to say one thing...and one thing only...so listen up.

I'm guest blogging over at Bloom today!!

(Which means you need to go check it out!)

Sweet, wonderful Nicole asked me a while back to do a post in her "Lessons Learned" series, so of course I couldn't pass up that opportunity.

Head over to Bloom (click here) for a simple, heart-felt, to the point lesson that I recently learned. And while you're there, show Nicole some blog love!

Alright people, I just got off work and my warm bed is calling my name! Hope your Tuesdays are fabulous!

Christmas Came to Oxford--Instagram Style

2011-11-28T07:00:00.001-06:00

I almost titled this post "It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas..." but then I realized that is entirely false. It's not beginning to look like it, it looks like the North Pole exploded inside our house. And I can't say that I hate it, y'all. Actually, I really, really love it.

Christmas has finally made its way to Oxford. Praise ye the Lord!

I'm all for waiting until Thanksgiving is over...but gracious, this year I was just counting the minutes until the boxes could come in from the garage. It's all I could think about!

Hi, my name is Rachel and I have an obsession with Christmas decor. But no, really. I've said it once, and I'll say it again...if it was acceptable to have Christmas decorations up all year round, I'd be the first to do it. But (womp womp) it's not, so I'm soaking up every little minute of my house being covered in red and green and my electricity bill being a little higher from all of the twinkle lights strewn everywhere. It's Christmas joy.

It rained all the freaking day today, but that didn't stop us from getting into the Christmas spirit! Sure, I may have pneumonia tomorrow, but at least I'll have a Christmas tree to look at while bedridden.

I may as well start answering the phone, "Rachel the Elf, what's your favorite color?" because I've been dubbed Head Elf by my roommates. I'm okay with this new title.

I tried to pay homage to my mother and her incredible decorating abilities with our mantle, but nothing comes close to hers. For real--her mantle in our living room looks like it just jumped off the page of Southern Living. It's to die for. I'm just starting out in my mantle creations, so I thought it looks pretty fab for a first timer!

What is it about the Christmas season and decorations that put me in such a good mood? I wish I could figure out what it is and just bottle it up. I swear, it's the key to happiness.

Our tree is simply red and green this year, no crazy colors, and I love it.

It's perfect. Simple, classic Christmas.

Aaaand we already have presents wrapped, under the tree. Ahead of the game? Kinda. Are some of those wrapped boxes empty, just wrapped to look pretty? Maybe.

Yes, we have two wreaths, each created by my grandmother. One is much larger (front door) and the other is a bit smaller...but I couldn't pick just one. You see, I don't discriminate, especially against Christmas wreaths.

A little bit of our Christmas kitchen accessories...no room is left out, I'm telling you.

Merry Christmas, y'all!

If my house was on fire, I think one of the very first things I would grab would be my Willow Tree nativity...my pride and joy. I've been piecing it together for about 2 years now and it's almost complete. Jesus is the reason for the season. I adore it, more than words can say.

Our poor front door looked like it was hit by a monsoon...everything is currently soaking wet, but still holding on. And somehow, still covered in glitter. Glitter is magic like that, didn't you know? I really love our little stoop...so welcoming, in my opinion. Ready to start having Christmas parties!

Ahhh, all is right in the world when your house is covered from top to bottom in red and green. It finally feels like the holidays are really here. Thanksgiving at home was marvelous, I miss being home already. I sure wish I had thought to take more pictures, but my memories usually aren't taken with a camera. It's the most wonderful time of the year, y'all...for real. Christmas will be here and gone before we know it!
Oh, and this is the invitation I finally decided on for my Annual Girls' Christmas Party (sorry for the spoiler if you're one of my girls who'll be getting one!)

I had the most difficult time finding party invites that said "Christmas party" and not "holiday party," but I finally settled on this one and wrote Christmas in the bottom text. I just love it! I sure hope it turns out perfectly...I'm seriously just so happy right now.
I can't wait to see what the next month brings...it's bound to be fabulous.Happy Monday, sweet friends!
What are you doing to get in the holiday spirit?

hump day blurbs

2011-11-23T09:07:00.000-06:00

Wait, it is Wednesday, right?

Here are all of the random thoughts floating around my head...

...I am so behind on life right now. And by life, I mean blogging, Twitter, Facebook, and my TiVo. Of course, that's why I'm awake, blogging right now when I should be sleeping. It's almost as if I'm not a real person when I'm this disconnected from the world. Must.catch.up. I'm sure my friends think I've disappeared...but I promise, I'm alive and well, just being held hostage by the hospital.

...I totally meant to do an 'over the weekend' post but it just didn't happen...so here's a mini recap with a few pictures. To sum up the weekend, we had wedding showers (basically a sorority reunion,) went to the bar, tailgated like champs (duh, as usual,) watched my poor Ole Miss get whooped, went to the bar again, and recuperated on Sunday. Fabuloso.

...I worked out twice yesterday in preparation for the feast(s) on Thursday...I need to constantly be doing lunges from now until then just to make sure I don't gain 13 lbs in a 24 hour span. I've been pondering all morning what stretchy pants I can wear that are acceptable to wear out in public...this could pose a challenge.

...I finally saw Breaking Dawn on Sunday night...and holy vampire. Amazing. After all of the mixed reviews I heard from friends, I was nervous to see it, but I'll proudly exclaim that I loved it. Of course, as with every movie, there were parts I could deal without (like any part that had the guys talking to each other while in werewolf form...super creepy and weird.) But seriously...cried my eyes out during the wedding (beaaautiful, perfect,) and hellooo, the honeymoon? Dayyummm. I cannot wait to see it again. Why can't we just live in Twilight world all the time?

...I need to pop a Xanax (or two) in thoughts of Black Friday shopping. And Christmas decorating. Don't get me wrong--decorating for Christmas is my absolute favorite time of year, but gracious, it's stressing me out. Can't I just pull an extra date out of thin air that can be solely used for Christma-fying my house? Where are my elves when I need them? And I kid you not--I had a dream that my roommates decorated without me and I had a nervous breakdown (which would probably happen.) Sheesh.

...Speaking of Black Friday...while I'm popping Xanax, I may as well pop another one in thoughts of buying Christmas presents. I keep asking my family and close friends what they really would want for Christmas (because duh, you're getting a present whether you like it or not) but I keep getting the obligatory "Oh, nothing" or "I don't need anything." Well I didn't ask what you needed. I asked what you wanted...big difference. Christmas presents are fun, hello. And if you don't tell me what you want, I'm just going to buy you socks and underwear. That's not exciting. Btw--what in the world do I buy for A for Christmas? Help a sister out and give me good guy gifts!!!

...Sweet little Andrew is coming to my hometown for Thanksgiving with both sides of the family. Bless his soul. I don't think he really knows what he's getting himself into, but he'll find out sooner or later :) But really, I am so excited that he's spending his first holiday with my family. I cannot wait for everyone to meet him...I know they'll love him as much as I do. Oh, and have I mentioned lately how blessed I am to have him? Seriously--I think I love that boy more every day. He's wonderful. Thankful for him!

Alright, kids. Time for me to hit the hay. I'm going to attempt to buy a few more Christmas presents before bedtime, but since I have to be back at work in 10 hours, I better cut it short. Oh, and I'm pretty sure Visa is going to think someone stole my card with all of the activity I've put on it this morning. Geez.

Y'all are my favorites. I sure hope you're soaking in every minute of this holiday season...it flies by tooooo quickly! Happy Wednesday, and gobble til you wobble!

A Day in the Life: Gameday in the Grove

2011-11-18T07:00:00.008-06:00

You've heard me mention "Gameday" like 392 bazillion times here lately on this little blog. Ever wonder what a typical gameday is like? Here's my depiction...

My alarm goes off at 6 if it's an early gameday, 6:30 for the late ones. That 30 minutes matters, y'all. I sit up, stretch, realize I only got about an hour of sleep because I was too excited to actually have a good night's rest, and climb out of bed. Still groggy, I haven't quite remembered the reason for the early wake-up call...haven't quite realized exactly why I was so anxious last night.

And then it hits me. Like a ton of bricks...a really awesome one, of course. But a ton of bricks, nonetheless.

It's Gameday. Christmas Day in the SEC world. Kickoff. It's finally here.

I can't help but do a little happy dance by myself in my pajamas in my bedroom. The house is still silent. No one else is awake yet, of course. And being the hospitable hostess that I am, I should let everyone keep sleeping until the alarms start ringing around the house, but no, not today. It's Gameday. "Everybody up and at 'em," I think, as I begin flipping on lights while singing the Ole Miss fight song. I step over air mattresses and pallets made of blankets, sleepy friends with the same goofy grin that is on my face, and of course mounds of clothing and belongings. It's Gameday.

First on the agenda is getting the Grove food ready. If you've never tailgated before, you're missing out. And if you've never tailgated in the Grove on Gameday, then you've really never tailgated. Almost as a ticket into our tent, placed strategically in the middle of the Grove, I make finger foods, dips galore, and red and blue sprinkled cupcakes to munch on before kickoff. My meager snacks are nothing compared with the spreads you'll see all over the Grove... Tailgating is an art, not a past time.

The showers start to happen, the iPod is cranked up loud for everyone to hear, and we start getting our Gameday attire laid out. Midway through the primping, an old familiar song comes on the iPod...with the first notes, we all know what it is. Dixie. Sweet, sweet slow Dixie. And with that song, we all get ready a little faster, knowing that the Grove is just a few, short minutes away. We put on our pretty, fresh dresses and throw on our heels (after tossing our flats into our purses, of course.) But any Grove outfit is never complete without our "KD Loves Our Rebs" button and the traditional Colonel Rebel tattoo on our cheeks. "Where's my lucky pom pom?" I yell, as I lose it every week in the fall, and somehow always seem to find it again. Deep down, I really know it's not the same one, but I choose to believe it's the same red and blue pom I've used since freshman year.

Finally we're ready. To campus we go. Traffic is miserable, like we should have expected, but we still gripe about it as if this is the first game we've ever been to. My feet are already hurting, but I know that this dress looks better with these heels, so I suck it up and deal with it. It is Gameday, after all. And then, in a sudden moment, we finally get a glimpse of the Center of the Universe.

As far as the eye can see are tents, a sea of red and blue, if you will. And of course, no one has cell phone service. Ever. Thanks, AT&T. Lesson learned...if you want to be with certain people on Gameday, either go with them to begin with, or start sending up smoke signals because otherwise, you won't find them. The spread on the table looks like Thanksgiving dinner...sprinkled with every item ever created in red and blue. I prepare by not eating the day before...gotta save up room for the football feast awaiting us in the Grove. Our coolers are full of beverages; anything from the typical Diet Cokes to bottles of wine, and of course, many pitchers of mimosas. Mimosas are a staple in our group for a typical Gameday...there always seems to be an endless supply and that's just how we like it. We snap photo after photo of the group in our best Grove attire, trying to capture a memory. I always claim the middle spot, but it's pretty much understood by this point in our friendships. After the paparazzi is done, we switch to our flats and toss the heels under the table somewhere. Comfort is key (once our fabulous heels have been camera documented.)

Friends mingle in and out. The Grove is like a non-stop cocktail party, mixed with a family reunion, sorority get-together, afternoon picnic, and dinner party all rolled into one. We don't go as far as to have chandeliers and HD television in our tent, but you better believe we're decked out in red and blue and have the best food around. Approximately 3 hours before kickoff, we're all sure to scramble to the Walk of Champions for the infamous team walk-through, a tradition in our little college town. You'll hear lots of "Go Rebs!" and a few "Hotty Toddy" chants, lots of high fives, screams, and excitement as the players make their way to the stadium. This is the moment when you can really feel the spirit in the air. The Grove comes alive, even more so than before. We truly believe that if we don't Grove hard enough, our Rebels won't win the game. Everyone is getting pumped up for the football to come...me included. We head back to the tent for a few more bites of Abner's chicken and a few more sips of our mimosas, checking the time every 10 minutes or so. After all, we can't be in the stadium any later than an hour before kickoff.

Finally, it's time to head to the glorious Vaught-Hemingway Stadium. You can feel the excitement in the air. Hotty Toddy is being chanted a little more frequently, and more friends are showing up for the routine walk to the student section. Pom poms are grabbed and the food is put back into coolers for the post-game victory party (who am I kidding--we're usually eating our sorrows away.) And then we're off, after stopping by a few familiar tents on the way. The lines into the stadium stretch far and wide, everyone waiting their turn to have their ticket scanned for entrance into our happy place. Kickoff is in about one hour, and the minutes tick down on the field clock. I enjoy football more than most men, and I'm proud to admit that. I'm not one of those girls who sits down and small talks during the game. I'm on my feet, screaming at the defense to step up a little, cheering for a touchdown, and waving my pom pom furiously. My daddy raised me to have a fierce love for sports, especially Ole Miss sports, so needless to say, I'm usually hoarse on any given Sunday after a home game, especially with the pathetic season we're having.

Per usual, a celebrity of some type yells out the tradititonal "Are You Ready?" chant immediately before kickoff...we've had anyone from Sandra Bullock to Jack Black to Dennis Quaid. It's a new level of excitement every week to guess who may chant our favorite question this game... Wonder who it will be next? And if you're wondering, Hotty Toddy is an age-old tradition at Ole Miss and it goes a little something like this: Are you ready?! Hell yeah, damn right! Hotty toddy, gosh a'mighty, who the hell are we? Hey! Flim flam bim bam, Ole Miss by damn!"

I may as well just skip through the game part...it consists of a lot of penalties, false starts, and interceptions against us, but I still love my Rebels. This week we play LSU...and I shudder at the thought. We are going to get slaughtered, but I am still going to enjoy every moment of the game. And yes, I said the student section...I'm still reliving my glory days. There's just a little more spirit down there (Sweeeeet Caroline, bumbumbum), and I love it. So from here, we'll just skip the game, since we've come to the acceptance that a big LOSS is headed our way. Everyone has rebuilding years, right? (Just appease me and say, "Yes, of course they do!")

We head back to the Grove with our black bear tail tucked between our legs, but that's okay, because the 2011 Ole Miss Football season wasn't really about football, was it? We'll all admit we only came to campus for the Grove. And this is when we start unloading coolers, restocking empty plates on the tables, and popping ~~celebratory~~ champagne bottles. (Or in our case, we're stealing our cooler back from the tent next to us that stole ours...yeah, that happened.) You hear lots of talk about how much Les Miles is hated, who our next coach will be, how we're really "not that terrible, the SEC is just so competitive (yeah right...)," and so forth, and this carries on into the evening until we've decided we've graced the Grove for long enough.
Time to continue on to the Square. But I won't get into that part of the story, because what happens on the Square, stays there.

Hotty Toddy, y'all! Let's go ahead and start cheering for the upset of the century...
Geaux to hell, LSU!!!

thankful.

2011-11-17T05:46:00.000-06:00

This time of year is so special to me, not just because of all of the holiday hype, but because this season truly makes me stop and think about how blessed I am.

I am so grateful for those moments when the hustle and bustle of the every day life slows down just long enough for me to think of all of the many, many things I have to be thankful for this year, and every year. Days may be tough, work may wear me down, and relationships may strain me, but my goodness--I am so incrediblyblessed. I have have been blessed by God with more than I could ever imagine.

It seriously overwhelms me sometimes, but in the best, most wonderful way.

God is so good.

So in theme with the whole idea upon which this blog was started, this Thursday's "thankfulness" is comprised of all of the little joys in the every day that I am truly and honestly thankful for...

a home-cooked meal

laughter and memories made with roommates

mumpkins

rare text messages from my little brother

family traditions

the joy in my parents' voices when I tell them I'll be home for Thanksgiving AND Christmas

my sister's humor

being able to give back through Operation Christmas Child

days off from work

an "I love you" from Andrew

a pediatric patient's mom telling me I'm the only nurse her little guy doesn't cry for

the Holly channel on XM

your precious blog comments

rain showers to cool us off and remind us that it actually is fall in MS

little packages left on my doorstep

forgiveness

a God who desperately and completely loves me

So very thankful.

Happy Thursday, sweet friends.

I sure hope you're counting your blessings today!