Music Monday Download on a Wednesday

Saying Goodbye

The past week has felt like a decade.  I've gone though every emotion imaginable and relived a tragic loss over and over again.  Last Sunday afternoon, I received a phone call that one of my closest, dearest, and oldest friends had tragically passed away.  I was in shock.  My body shook, no tears came, I was frozen, mute and unable to comprehend that someone who was such a integral part of my life for MOST of my life, was no longer on this earth.  A person that was as close as a sister to me.  

There are people that come into our lives that are there for a reason and that make an impact on our decisions, our personality, and our demeanor.  Danielle was one of those people who impacted mine from the day she stepped into it.  We became increasingly close after I graduated High School.  I'd drive up to Baskin Robbins where she worked, and watch her decorate ice cream cakes while I vented to her about my problems.  We hung out a lot and I spent a good deal of time with her family.  She'd call her mom on our way home and tell her to get the "box" ready (her trundle bed) because I was staying the night.  I spent MANY a night in that box.  Seeking comfort from her when I was down or needed a friend.  She was ALWAYS there to embrace me and help me through it.  

From that point on, we were close.  She introduced me to a group of people that have become some of my closest and best friends.  Friends that I can call on at any time.  People who come running when I need them. Girls that don't ask questions, they just get in the car come when they're needed.  SHE is the reason I have these wonderful people in my life.  I wouldn't be where I am today, be married to the man I'm married to, and be surrounded by the most loving community of people that anyone could know if it hadn't been for her.  Her family is like my own. Her sister like my own sister, her mother and father like second parents to me.  

Life will never been the same without her in it.  Her laugh and huge smile were infectious.  She could just laugh her silly, loud, booming laugh and it would immediately send me into hysterics.  I still hear that laugh in my head.  It was contagious to the point that I found myself laughing like her and Chad would say, "Ok, Danielle..." when I got really tickled and sounded like her.  What I wouldn't give to hear that laugh just one more time!

I could write a novel the size of a phone book of all the good times and great memories I've had the pleasure of sharing over the years with her and her family.  She was there for most every milestone I can think of. Weddings, baby showers, bachelorette parties, births, funerals.....through good times and bad.  She was there the night Amanda Frick and I fell off the mechanical bull and I broke my nose.  I was there the St. Patty's day when she ran into a cigarette with her eye and had to be rushed to the emergency room, then showed up at Monterrey's later with a patch---looking like One-eyed Willie. We had our own inside jokes.  She was certain the cure for a hangover was a diet coke and a chicken biscuit. And she always loved surprising me!  The day of my baby shower, she happened to "show up" when I thought she was in California.  For Beckett's 2nd birthday, while he was opening gifts, she walked in, still donned in running gear when I didn't think she could make it because she was running a marathon in Savannah, apologizing that she couldn't fit a shower in, but she wanted to be there!      

After her move back from California, I was thrilled she decided to buy a house very close to my office.  She would call me for advice on home decor and I'd run by to see the latest pillows or rug she'd bought to spruce up the new abode.  She and I were notorious returners and if I had something to run back to Marshall's or TJMaxx, I knew she'd most likely ride with me on my lunch break because we were both indecicive buyers.  We kidded eachother about it all the time!  

When I had a party a few months ago, she came and stayed with me the whole weekend.  Vacuuming, scrubbing my house and even potting some plants to help me prepare.  When Chad went on a ski trip to Aspen the beginning of March, I asked her if she'd like to come stay with me a night while he was gone.  Not only did she keep me company, she cleaned my kitchen and reset all my clocks from the time change while I was putting Beckett to bed.  I didn't know this was the last time I'd hug her and sit down to share a glass of wine and have a good talk.  I only wished I'd have squeezed her tighter when she left for work the next morning.  

I'm hurt.  Hurt for so many reasons!  Hurt that my friend who was so beautiful, in so many ways is gone.  It's unfathomable to me.  It's crushing.  After a week of spending time with her family and an enormous group of friends, I know I'm not alone.  We are all hurting and have so many questions.  But after sharing stories and the fact that I know her so well, I realize more each day that this was inevitable.  No one is at fault.  No one to blame.  We don't always understand God's plan, but through tragedy, some good will come.  I've learned more than ever that life is entirely too short.  People we love can be taken from us in the blink of an eye.  From now on, my hugs linger a bit longer and I squeeze a bit tighter.  I call more often and add "I love you" before hanging up.  Danielle was always one of those friends that said "love you" before hanging up or walking out the door.  That's only one of the long list of things that I will make sure I do with the ones I love.

I don't think she ever fathomed how many people loved her.  How many people cared for her and wanted the best for her.  Her great big smile would light up a room and caused her to never meet a stranger.  I hope that I can be just a bit more like that.  Smile a little more often, laugh a little more.  Possibly take up walking, or jogging (since I've never ran in my life), maybe plant some flowers in the yard.  Something she'd be proud of as a tribute to her.  

This past week was extremely hard for me.  I don't usually go more than about a week and a half without talking with her.  It's about the time that we would plan a lunch date or get together for a drink after work since I'm wrapping up tax season. I'll always love her.  Like many that loved her, I'll ask plenty of questions about WHY this happened.  But, you know what?  We'll all be okay.  If she taught me anything, she taught me how to be a friend and how to lean on my friends for support.  She was ALWAYS there when I needed her and by leaning on the Lord and leaning on those that I love, I'll make it through this.  

I miss and love you terribly, my sweet friend!  Until we meet again....

Perry "Danielle" Adkins 

November 17, 1980 - March 31, 2013 

The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.

Psalm 34:18

Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God. For just as the sufferings of Christ flow over into our lives, so also through Christ our comfort overflows.

2 Corinthians 1:3-5

XO,

New Favorites

Want the rundown of what's currently on my it-list?

Read on....

I recently read an article about Clairol relaunching their line of Herbal Essences shampoos and conditioners.  Good move, Clairol!!  

By the time I made it to Walgreens, I ended up grabbing the last 2 bottles on the shelf.  Evidently, I'm not the only one who wants my hair to smell the way it did in the late 90's! 

And YES! YES! YES! it smells just like you remember!

West Elm jewelry tree

I am a jewelry FIEND!!!!  I was having major issues with necklace tangles, so I put this item on my Christmas wish list.  
It's not only pretty to look at, but it keeps my favorite baubles at arms reach so I can find them easily!

Revlon Photoready BB Cream 

Revlon has always been my favorite when it comes to Drugstore finds. 
The line of Photoready shades are great! 
I've been using Maybelline BB Cream for the last few months, but when I saw that 
Revlon had their own version, I decided to give it a whirl. 
My verdict is that Maybelline is a bit more like a tinted moisturizer and 
Revlon is more of a moisterizing tint.  Make sense?
Soooo, I use the Maybelline daily under makeup and the Revlon on the 
weekend or when I'm running errands and don't want to necessarily put on foundation . 
Great formula, I was impressed!

Too Faced Snow Bunny 

I hate when a brand or product is discontinued, don't you?
Sephora had a fantastic highlighting bronzer that I loved from their line, but when I finally got around 
to making it to the mall to get some more......lo and behold---of course they've done away with it! 
So, after milling around in Sephora for over an hour (which can set me into a huge spending spree, so I usually avoid actually walking INTO a Sephora....) I came out with Too Faced snow bunny. 
I really like it! I use the highlighter white and bronze side on my temples and brow, and the pink on my cheeks, it's almost like having a bronzer and pretty pink blush all in one. 

Urban Decay Naked 2 Palette 

After reading tons of glowing reviews about Urban Decay's Naked palette, 
I decided to try out the Naked 2. 
Oh.MY.word. 
These colors are so pretty, I just can't contain myself.  
A great mixture of shimmery nudes to blend together for day or night! 
If your'e looking for a palette that does it all, this one is perfect! 

Snake orb pendant necklace  

Like I said, I'm a jewelry fiend! 
This Stella and dot snake orb pendant was on my wish list this year and I was so 
excited when my sister-in-law and brother-in-law gave me this for Christmas. 
I LOVE it and wear it all the time. 
It's a fantastic piece to wear everyday with just about anything and easily adds a punch to an outfit. 
I've had loads of compliments on this since I got it! 

Mossimo Pearce pumps

Need work shoes that aren't skyscraper high? 

Look no further than Target, my friends.  

These Pearce pumps are my go-to shoes for work.  

They look chic and expensive but don't break the bank! 

Renegade bracelet

Here's another great gift I got for Christmas from Stella and Dot. 
My in-laws gave me the much-coveted renegade bracelet and I ADORE it! 
It's funky meets chic when you pair this with a pretty watch!

Bond No. 9 Bleeker Street

Last, but not least is my new favorite scent! 
On a shopping day out with friends, we ran in Pout! 
I've seen the Bond brand before but never really paid much attention to stop and actually smell it. 
After testing a few, I knew Bleeker Street had my name all over it! 
The site's description reads: 

Art, fashion, seduction, and dessert in liquid form. A warm and sensual aphrodisiac that glides from day into evening.  Notes of Violet leaf, cassis, jasmine, cinnamon, oakmoss, patchouli, vanilla, caramel. 

There's nothing better than a good perfume or scent to put you in a good mood! 

Happy Thursday! 

Missed you guys!!

XO,

Music Monday Download on Tuesday

I'll be back soon, I promise.....

Happy Tuesday! 

XO, 

Santa Came!!

Santa brought lots of toys with LOTS of smaller pieces this year!!  I'm told the older they get, the smaller the pieces become.  We don't own a puzzle that's intact.  Gotta work on that!  

Beckett asked for a backhoe about 25 times.  He really wanted a ride-on backhoe, but some friends of ours were ready to give theirs away, so I informed Santa to take that off the list.  Instead, he brought him a toy backhoe.

He loves his grill!!!  I'm so glad he got a grill since he had been cooking up a
storm for Gigi earlier in the week before Christmas.  

Tailgate food I guess....

He also got a wheelbarrow!!
My mom has a very small one at her house that is entirely too small for him, but he loves
pushing it around.  Now he can help his daddy in the yard!!

Happy Wednesday!
XO,

Making The Rounds

We really had a busy holiday season this year.  Every weekend was filled with something!  Earlier in the season we enjoyed our local Christmas parade.  Beckett had a BLAST--he was in heaven with all the firetrucks, horses, and TRACTORS!!!  It was pretty frigid at the parade, which is out of the norm.  It really felt like Christmas for a change.....and B got to wear his reindeer hat.  

After the parade we went to my Aunt's to have Christmas with my family.
Nonna bought him a new hat! 

Nonna and her favorite little boy! 

Playing around with "Nanny"
My poor aunt still had a boot on her foot from surgery she had months ago.
Beckett gave her some hugs to make her feel better!! 

Say CHEESE!
Beckett??
These are my cousin's children that I love dearly.
All three of these kids were in my wedding as flower girls and ring bearer.
 It baffles mehow time flies and how old they are now, especially now that Kailey
is allowed behind a the wheel of a car!!  Seriously, am I this old?? 

Ok, that's a bit better....

Took a few more shots at home of the tree before it got disassembled and
put away for the year.
I can't say that I regret purchasing the artificial tree this year.
Not one needle to clean up!!

Beckett enjoyed the Christmas season so much this year.
He examined every single ornament he could reach
 (obviously, the breakable ones were hung much higher this year)

Here's one huge reason why I don't take as many pictures anymore....
"Mommy, can I hold it? Can I take a picture with your cam-er-a!"

Christmas eve night we went over to Nonna's to celebrate with my family.
He gets to color more at Nonna's than at mommy's.
Nonna doesn't value her rug and walls as much as I do. 

Uncle Beau helped out

"Here Unka Beau, let's dump out the whole basket!"

Nonna and Poppa's tree

Beckett and his Nonna

Me and my baby B

Before I talk about what my brother gave Beckett, I need to give you a little bit more information....my brother is an enormous Carolina fan!  Huge, huge, HUGE!  Anyway, Beckett loves to tackle and act like he's playing football quite often.  He even puts his bicycle helmet on at our house when we watch football on t.v.  So, of course my brother wanted to get him a real football helmet for Christmas.  

BUT, no ordinary youth helmet would do.  Once it came in the mail, he wasn't happy with it.  The shell of the helmet was ok, but the decals looked chintzy and cheap (they looked fine to me), but Beau wasn't happy with them. 

So, my brother..... the ultimate USC fan AND Beckett fan that he is, got in touch with the equipment manager for the Gamecocks and scored the exact decals the team has!  My 2 year old has the most authentic youth sized helmet available!  Complete with the flag decals on the back!  

I think this has to be the best Christmas present any of us received this year!  I love my brother to death but he just amp'ed it up a notch with this one!

Here's what the helmet looked like when Beau got it in the mail. 

Here's the helmet after "Unka Beau" did his Gamecock DIY to it! 

Beau quotes from Christmas eve:
"If it's for Beckett, it has to be done RIGHT!"
"I wish I had an Uncle like me when I was his age..."

On Christmas night, we had Christmas with my stepdad's family.
Beckett was worn OUT from his full day, but he livened up a little to hang out with Finlee Ann. 

Worn OUT!!!

We celebrated Christmas with my in-laws the Saturday after Christmas this year.  Aunt Amy and Uncle Patrick came into town and Chad, Beckett and I rode to the lake for the day to spend time with them. 

An early present to open before we ate lunch

Nothin' but NET!

Gigi helped Beckett open some more toys.

Beckett thinks that every party should have cake.
I agree, but I'm pretty sure he asked Gigi on the phone earlier in the week if there would be cake.
Of course, she made sure there was!

Having fun with Aunt Amy!

Does anyone else feel like this year was a blur?  I really don't know where the time went!!  

Happy Tuesday!! 

XO, 

Music Monday Download

Who's ready for a little walk down memory lane?  This totally takes me back to middle school, permed hair,  boy bands and the most awkward 3 years of my life!!!  This video CRACKS me up!  Two very funny things to notice in this video (and embarrassing on my part). 

#1.  Those flouncy M.C. Hammer style pants?  And patent leather oxfords?  Yeah, I had some. 

#2   The "roger rabbit" dancing they do?  Yeah, broke my arm trying that out in the 6th grade.  No, I'm not kidding! 

What else cracks me up are the rainbow assortment of silky shirts they are wearing in the dance scene.  

They closely resemble some I recently purchased at Old Navy in about 3-4 colors.  See folks, what goes around does come around .....however, I do hope there is plenty from this video that never gets rehashed into the fashion world ever again!!!  

Happy Monday! 

XO, 

Beckett Chatter

All I can say is, I'm working on getting video of the things he says.  What comes out of his mouth is 

halarious, but it's even funnier hearing it from his mouth! 

Beckett:  "What time is it?"
Chad:  "I dunno..."
Beckett:  "Time for you to get a watch."
________________________________________________

Getting ready to read a book with Chad
Beckett: "Here's the book" (as he hands it to Chad)
"and here's MEEEE!" (as he hops in Chad's lap)
________________________________________________

While taking a bath his tummy growls
Me:  "What was THAT?"
Beckett:  "There's an animal in my belly.  RAWR!"
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On my recent trip to Asheville, NC, I brought him back a Curious George 
stuffed animal.
Beckett:   "Curious George, you need a diaper change!!"
Lays him on the coffee table and pretends to change his diaper.
Beckett:  "Shew!  Stiiiiiinky!" (as he holds his nose) 
________________________________________________

Favorite new saying when he's grumpy: 
Beckett:  "Don't TALK to me!"
I've got to figure out how to make him stop saying this!!
________________________________________________

Christmas night I asked Beckett to cook me something on the grill he got from Santa. 
He picks up a small firetruck, places it on the grill and slams the lid... 
Beckett:  "One firetruck.....coming up!!!"
________________________________________________

Tugging Chad's hand, he whispers to him...
Beckett:  "I have an idea, I have a GOOD idea that we should go DOWNstairs"
(always stresses the 'down'---this is also where 90% of his toys are located.)
________________________________________________

Uncle Beau asks for a hug as Beckett and I are leaving. Beau reaches for him to hug him.... 
Beckett:  "You can look, but you cannot TOUCH!!"
________________________________________________

Easy mac for dinner for Beckett, I'm stirring it up waiting on it to cool... 
Beckett:  "Whatcha doin', mommy?" 
Me:  "Cooling your mac and cheese, it's hot!"  "See the steam?" 
Beckett:  "It's going UP!"  
Beckett:  "It came out of the microwave and it's hooooooot."
Beckett:  "We cook ever-thing, in the microwave!" 
Huge, HUGE sign it's time for me to use the stove more often!!
 ________________________________________________

Chad's leaving for work, leans down to give Beckett a hug and kiss goodbye.  Chad makes it to the door.... 
Beckett: "STOP Daddy!!!" 
Chad:  "Why, what's wrong?"
Beckett:  "You forgot to give MOM-my a hug and a kiss!" 
_________________________________________________

I've recently noticed he's having a hard time pronouncing words with 'S' Sounds.  I've been trying to make him say words properly and work with him on this, but you can't help but laugh when he pronounces things this way. 

Spick 'n' Span = "Pick an Pan" 
Stethoscope = "Kepo-cope" 

Happy Thursday! 

XO, 

Naughty or Nice?

Last year Beckett got to sit on Santa's lap twice!  This year, we were lucky enough to get to meet St. Nick two times....AGAIN!!

The lady that keeps my child is truly heaven sent!  She does more than I can ever believe for these children and we all adore her!  Every year, she has an annual Christmas party.  Everyone brings food, the kids get to do some Christmas crafts and they wrap up the party with a visit from Santa!  The kids really enjoy themselves and it's always a great time.  This year, she changed it up a bit and had breakfast with Santa.  Everyone brought a breakfast food!  I could kick myself for not getting a picture of the spread of food that was laid out.  The selection rivaled the menu at Waffle House and IHOP!!  My stomach is growling right now just thinking about it!

Some of Beckett's daycare buddies.
If you're wondering where he might be, just look behind the swing.
I think he was trying to swing everyone. 

Love that he's got his legs crossed in this picture.  

I just loved this picture of Beckett's buddy Maggie.
So precious! 

Beckett and Georgia Nell.
They look like they are deep in conversation. 

Already sweet talking the girls....

"Santa, I want a Backhoe!"

No tears on Santa's lap this year!!  So proud of my big boy! 

The next day, we went to Fort Motte for a Christmas get-together that our friends' have every year.
You can see pics from last year HERE and HERE

Yet again, he requested a backhoe!

Happy Wednesday! 

XO,