Grateful

And blessed.  That's how I'm feeling today.  A complete turn-around from my mood this morning.  Y'all, I know I have a baby growing inside of me and everything, but geez- these mood swings are for the birds!  I woke up, on the wrong side of the bed (again) this morning, and just didn't want to deal.....with anything.  I got on FB, got annoyed, got off, and decided to go straight to the Bible app on my phone for a little spiritual guidance and reminder of what's important in life.  I prayed- for a better attitude, more patience with Aaron, more patience with Adam, more patience with friends and family, and most importantly for more patience with myself.  Then, I turned on Disney Junior for Aaron, and retreated back to bed, laptop in hand for a little catching up on one of my favorite blogs: life{in}grace.  I love this woman, like I love Ree Drummond (Pioneer Woman).  Both of these women are the epitome of what I want to become as I get older.  They're both southern, and amazing moms and wife's, and their love and patience for their families inspire me.  I want to be like that.  Edie, the author of life{in}grace, is my muse.  Her spirituality runs deep- she's an amazing Christian woman.  I love to read her posts on parenting, because as a mother of 5 (or maybe 6) children she knows- she's been around the block a time or two.  She loves makeup, in particular MAC makeup (like myself), and she loves food.  All qualities that I find important in an individual- lol! 

After refreshing myself with some good "bloggage", God sent me another reminder of how blessed I am in the form of my best friend, Natalie.  While texting back and forth, she asked me about Aaron's school schedule.  Then, offered to keep him a couple of afternoons next week so I could have some time to myself.  Offer is actually the wrong word- she stated I'll keep him, not because I have to, but because I want to.  Grateful.  That is what true friendship is.  She loves me, therefore, she loves my child(ren).  It means so incredibly much to me.  That is when I realize how immature and childish my behavior can be at times- I'm not being grateful for all that He has blessed me with.  Good friends- that's a blessing. 

I feel like I am constantly needing to work on being grateful when I'm feeling good, and being graceful when I'm feeling bad.  It's easy to be grateful when things are going great and "according to plan."  It's the being graceful that counts the most.  So today, I am grateful.  I want to focus on this, especially on my "off" days when I'm not feeling so grateful OR graceful. 

Keeping it real, y'all! ;)

Go Dawgs!

~LL

Updates

Aaron and I have already started this day out by being incredibly lazy, and still in our pj's at 10:30 AM.  Oh well.  Yesterday was crazy.  I was up by 6:30 that morning and we were out of the door by 7:30 to get to Aaron's eye doc appointment at 8:30.  Never again.  And when I say never again, I mean never again will I make an appointment that early in the AM an hour away thinking it's going to cut our wait time in half at the Doc.  Not true!  We arrived a little before 8:30 and did not walk out of that place until 10:30.  I'm sorry, I know that's pretty standard at the eye doctor, but I think it's a little crazy.  An hour and a half out of those 2 hours we were waiting.  I thought by scheduling the first appointment of the day we would be able to get out of there sooner, but that's not the case.  I really don't think there's any way of getting out of there in less than two hours, no matter what time your appointment is.  Oh well, it's over and Aaron's not due to go back until January.  And next time, Adam's making that trip!

In other news, the royal baby was born yesterday and it's a boy!!  I must say, I was surprised by two things:
1) I was convinced that Kate was having a girl.  Convinced.  However, I am very happy for her and William and cannot wait to see this little royal prince.  I'm sure he's beautiful.  I imagine a head full of beautiful, dark hair- like his mom. 
2) How is it that Kate gave birth to an 8 pound baby and looked like she was maybe 5 months pregnant when she gave birth??  Call it good genes, I guess.  I'm impressed.  I'm A LOT bigger than her in my seventh month of pregnancy than she was in her ninth month.  She's gorge.  Also, in every picture we've seen of her during pregnancy, she was always covered up and dressed very conservatively.  I'm sure she was not shopping at Old Navy, and wearing flip-flops and stretchy leggings on the daily.  And, I'm also sure that she will be back to her awesome pre-preg bod by the time People has the royal fam featured on their cover.  Mark my words.

Last weekend we celebrated my mom's birthday.  She turned 52.  I pray I look as good as she does some 20 years down the road!  We enjoyed hanging out with family all weekend, and eating tons of good food and cookie cake (nom nom nom).  I've blogged about my mom and how special she is before, so I'll just link that entry up in case you want to read.  She's awesome and such an inspiration to me and I just adore her.  Hope you had a wonderful birthday, Mama!

There's been another trailer released for The Hunger Games: Catching Fire, and my dorkometer is going crazy.  I.Heart.Peeta.  Here it is if you want to watch:

We can't forget Finnick!!  Especially since we're totally best friends with him in real life! (Sorry this joke will never get old, y'all.)  I think next to the birth of our second kid, this movie coming out is the next best thing about 2013.  There, I said it. 

One last thing: my dear friend Katie sent this pin to me last night, and I think it speaks volumes.  Katie Anne- you know me so well, my dear!

Enjoy your Tuesday!  Gotta go hit up the grocery store- life is so exciting! ;)

~LL

Simple Things

Aaron and I went to my friend, Michelle's, house for a play date and lunch today.  She has two awesome kids, and although they're older than Aaron, they always take the time to play so sweetly with him.  Aaron, of course, is dying to be a big boy, so playing with the older kids is so exciting to him.  Michelle is a super mom; she's actually one of the best moms I've ever known.  It's evident in how sweet and well-mannered her children are.  I can only hope Aaron and Harper are as lovely as Ryan and Anna are!  Every time we hang out, I'm constantly taking mental notes on everything she does.  And the thing is, Michelle doesn't even realize how amazing she is.  That's what blows my mind.  I can only hope that I'm half of what she is!  Today I asked her, "What do I do to make sure Aaron is as great of a kid as Ryan and Anna are?"  Her response, "All you can do is your best.  They will be who they're going to be."  Just as simple as that.  We, as parents, put a lot of pressure on ourselves trying to raise the perfect child.  How many times do I have to remind myself that no child is perfect?  As a matter of fact, no one is perfect!  Simply, all you do is your best.  With the constant exposure to parenting blogs, Facebook, Pinterest, etc. you feel the need to make your life like a fairy tale where every day is perfect/magical/amazing.  That's just not true.  That's not the real world.  You love your kids,  love your spouse/girlfriend/boyfriend,  love your family, and go to bed at night knowing you did your best.  Wish somebody had given me this advice years ago!  Thanks again for a great morning, Michelle.  You're the best, my friend. ;)


I totally started this blog entry 6 hours ago while Aaron was napping, and saved it so I could finish it later.  Only thing is, I've lost my train of thought due to pregnancy brain.  We ended up hitting up a friend's pool for the afternoon, and didn't get home until dinner time.  I'm so excited because I have a prenatal massage scheduled for tomorrow afternoon.  (Thank you Nat, Jess, & Amy for the birthday present!)   I can only count on one hand the number of massages I've had (sad, isn't it), but out of the 4 massages that I've had in my entire life, the prenatal massage I had when I was pregnant with Aaron was by far the best.  So.Pumped.  I might just slide right off that table when my hour is over. 

I'll leave you with this new Dior ad featuring Rpatz.  Is it just me, or is he so much hotter since he and KStew finally called it quits?  Love him.

via

Nighty-night.

~LL

Weekend Photo Dump

Since I'm on a maj food hangover from a late ChickfilA lunch, I'm just going to let my pics narrate my weekend:

I kicked off the weekend at the Vet's office with Sophie May Friday afternoon.  I knew baby girl hadn't been feeling well all week, although there were no outward signs; she was eating, drinking, and going to the bathroom like normal.  Call it mother's intuition I guess; she has a UTI.  Bless it!  Needless to say, she's back to normal now and letting everyone in the house know who's boss. 

This was my Saturday.  Amazing.  My sweet friend, Brooke, had myself and 2 of my other girlfriends over to her mom and dad's house for a girls afternoon/early birthday celebration.  Isn't it gorge??  This house is probably one of my most favorite places in the world.  Brooke's parents live on Lake Tobesofkee in a beautiful house that looks like it should be on MTV Cribs.  The best part: it comes equipped with a beautiful pool, hot tub, and overlooks the lake.  It was the perfect day.  We ate lots of yummy food, drank, or in mine and Brooke's case (she's preggers too) we partook in some O'Douls non-alcoholic beer.  Only 2 of them, but hey, they were delish!  I've been craving beer, and this definitely hit the spot.  Later that afternoon, Brooke's precious mom took us for a ride on their pontoon boat to cap off the end of our day.  I got there at 11:15 that morning and didn't get home until 6:30, and time flew by!  I cannot wait to do it again!

{L-R: Jayme, Lauren, Nikki, Brandi, Lauren, Laura, Tina, me, Jessica, & Stephanie}

This was taken yesterday afternoon at my friend, Laura's, baby shower.  She's expecting a baby girl in late July!  Watching her open all of the presh baby girl stuff made me so excited for my future baby showers! 

• Aaron starts swimming lessons tonight.  He'll be going Monday-Thursday.  I'm half excited/half dreading it.  I'm excited in that he needs the lessons, of course, with basically all my family having pools; I'm dreading it in that Aaron can be super stubborn, and I can totally see us getting there and Aaron going into toddler meltdown no. 325.  Good thoughts, please!
• The Killing came back on last night, and it did not disappoint.  Between that, True Blood, and Keeping Up With the Kardashians my DVR is going to be out of control on Sunday nights.  My newest swede obsession is Joel Kinnaman who plays Holder on Killing.  Feast your eyes upon the hotness:

He dates Olivia Munn in real life.  Biatch.  Via

• Rant: Why is there now a show about Mistresses?  Every time I see a preview of it, I'm confused.  Is it now officially cool to be a mistress?  Did Olivia Pope make it okay (Scandal)?  I'm going to watch the first episode because I'm really, really hoping that these girls aren't mistresses on purpose. I just don't understand the glorification of hoochies.  I don't care if Alyssa Milano is the freakin' lead.  

• My birthday is a week from today.  Whoop! 

That's all, y'all!  Enjoy the rest of your Monday!

~LL

Mamakat

Goodness, I haven't blogged in a week! 

It's not that things have been particularly exciting; since last week was mostly spent inside away from the rain, Aaron and I had a lot of time to watch movies, build "sire trucks" out of Legos, read books, and (of course) hit up an indoor playground or two. We headed to my parents for the weekend and got to spend some much-needed time with family.  Last Thursday was my grandmother's (affectionately known as Mamakat) birthday, so me, Aaron, my mom, my Aunt Trish, my cousin Jill, and Jill's precious baby girl, Mary Leigh, went to The French Market in Locust Grove for lunch.  The food was delicious, but being with my family (minus my sweet sister and other family members) was the best.  We all don't get to see each other as often as we'd like so when we do it's nonstop conversation and laughter.  Here's a pic of Aaron and his cousin, Mary Leigh.  Are they not the sweetest things in the world??

presh

I'm embarrassed to say that I don't know how old my grandmother is.  Sadly, I don't even have a recent picture of her.  How terrible is that?  I should have taken a picture of her yesterday with her great-grandbabies and totally blanked.  Here's a pic of her from 4-5 years ago (I think...)

As you can see good looks & good drinks run in the family ;)

I love her so much.  I don't tell her enough.  I need to be a better granddaughter.  I need to call more, go see her and Pawpaw more.  She's gotten so old now.  She uses a cane to walk, and will ask you the same questions over and over again.  She's smart as a whip.  She's not as quick as she used to be, but every now and then she'll surprise you with her quick-wit.  She cusses like a sailor.  She can be totally inappropriate.  I remember going to see her once while I was in college.  I was 19 and (of course) thought that I was the coolest chick around.  I remember eating lunch (she used to be the best cook) with her and Pawpaw.  I was telling them some elaborate story, and I happened to have on a low-cut shirt that day.  After finishing my story Mamakat replied "You just walking around with your titties hanging out?"  I fell over laughing, and the funny thing was she did, too.  She was like that.  Another one of my favorite things she ever said: I had a Honda Civic with a sun roof, and when the weather was warm and beautiful, I kept that thing open.  One day I happened to drive over to see her and Pawpaw.  After our visit, they walked me out to my car (like they always have) to say goodbye.  Well Mamakat did not understand "why on earth" I had left my sun roof open while I was not in the car.  Instead of fearing rain, a break-in, etc., she said "Hayley, somebody could have come over to your car and poured a "Cocola" through that window."  I think I laughed so hard I had tears that day.

We almost lost her in 2003.  While undergoing an operation, she had a stroke during surgery.  She survived, but we thought she'd never be the same.  The doctor's had prepared us for the worst; she might not be able to speak correctly if at all, she might not know us, etc.  I remember leaving the hospital in tears the day that happened; we had gone to her room to see her, and all she could do was hold my hand.  It was like she knew who I was, but was struggling to say my name.  I cried all the way home from the hospital.  A couple of days later we went back to the hospital.  At the time it was me, my mom, and my dad.  My dad had not yet seen Mamakat; all he knew was what we'd told him about our last visit and what the doctor's had said.  Basically, we were preparing him for the worst.  Lo and behold, we walked back into the room and clear as day she said "all they're giving me to eat is this damn jello."  She was back.  God gave her back to us.  We were overjoyed.

Since then, she's been our Mamakat, but a more toned-down version of herself.  She's not as fiery, but the fire's still there.  She's not as quick, but her wit's still there.  I don't know what goes on in that big brain of hers, but I hope she knows how much I love her.  To take the one line out of Jodie Foster's infamous Golden Globes speech that made sense to me:

“But this is the only important one to take in: I love you, I love you, I love you. And I hope that if I say this three times, it will magically and perfectly enter into your soul, fill you with grace and the joy of knowing that you did good in this life."

You're a great grandmother, Mamakat. :)

~LL

Sweet Sundays

Sophie May and I are camped out in my room, watching New Years Eve on HBO, while my husband has taken over the living room to watch the Falcon's play.  We had to get away from him.  Apparently, today is the Falcon's playoff game and a serious nail-biter.  Or in Adam's case, you're biting your nails, you haven't taken a shower, and you're going back and forth between pacing the room and/or yelling at the TV.  This is the exact way I feel before Britney performs live these days. 

Today is a big day, y'all.  Golden Globes comes on tonight AND it's the Girls season premiere.  Wha??  I can't even handle it.  Will JHutch make an appearance at the Globes in a dapper suit??  Will Hannah tell Adam that she loves him too and will Marnie get back together with Charlie on Girls??  Eeekk!

Yesterday, Ashley and I met up for a Mexican lunch and we had a blast.  A 1:00 pm lunch turned into three skinny margs, a shopping trip, and an (almost) Michael Kors bag purchase.  *This is what happens when you drink tequila during the day.*  Luckily, our restaurant is planted in a shopping center so we were able to walk off the alcohol, and aside from the fact that I accidentally knocked over a boot display in Dillards, no one was harmed.  I even kept my spending to a minimum only buying a long-sleeved knit tee on clearance at Express, a fabulous new iPhone cover, and a couple of pairs of earrings from NY&Co.  Nothing like a full afternoon with a dear friend that you so rarely get to see!

Before I forget, Adam and I had date night Friday and we went to see Silver Linings Playbook and it was awesome.  Bradley Cooper is gorge and y'all know how much I adore some JLaw.  I won't go into tons of details, but it's basically about a guy (Bradley Cooper) who is released from a Mental Health Institute, moves back in with his parents, and meets JLaw's character.  It's hilarious, but in a dark way if that makes sense.  Adam and I loved it.  So, if you're in a movie-going mood I totally recommend it!

Au revoir!

~LL

Review

I was going to post yesterday, but I was experiencing the hangover of the century.  Like, I could barely move my body hurt so much.  One margarita led to three, and after having 2 glasses of champagne at our friends house I was DONE.

Midnight

 

 

 

 

Not long after the above picture was taken was I passed out on their couch.  I'm talking within the hour.  Geez...

All in all, we had an awesome time.  It was a perfect, laid-back evening.  Since we knew we were spending the night, we brought breakfast for the next morning.  I made these Bacon-Cheese Pull Aparts (recipe from Pinterest) and they were divine.  Cheers to 2013!

I have been meaning to update on Christmas; specifically, update on my Clarisonic Mia 2.  Obsesssssssssed!  I posted last November about wanting one because my skin has gotten seriously OOC.  Well, Santa granted my wish and it's as fabulous as I thought it would be!  First of all, I love using it.  I've never been one to love washing my face.  In fact, I'm downright lazy about it.  Usually while giving Aaron his bath at night, I would wipe my face with a makeup remover cloth, apply toner, and dab on my eye cream and moisturizer.  Nothing special. 

My, my, how things have changed....

This thing is awesome.  After charging for 24 hours before use it was ready to go.  Along with your Mia, you get some Clarisonic Cleansing Gel.  After wetting your face and the brush, you apply the gel to the bristles, press the power button, and let it go.  The brush stays on for a minute (20 seconds on forehead/20 seconds on nose/chin area/10 seconds on each cheek).  The Mia is already set for you to follow this standard.  Afterwards, your skin feels amazing.  Like, just had a facial- amazing.  My only concern was if it was harmful to use it once in the morning and at night, but according to the FAQ's on their website it's A-Okay to use it twice a day.  Again, I love it.  I even talked to the fabulous woman who does my facials, Angelique (here's her FB page if interested), to get her opinion and she thinks it's great as well.  Score!  She did inform me that with all of the exfoliating (i.e. deep cleansing) this brush does, it will bring up all of the impurities in your skin; bottom line, I shouldn't be shocked and demand my money back when a zit or blackhead pops up.  Just means it's doing its job!  So, if you're interested in this wonderful little gadget, and hesitant about the cost, it's worth every pretty penny.  I promise!!

Okay, gotta go cook dinner.  One last thought; I purchased Divergent on my Kindle today because I wanted to read something like The Hunger Games (and frankly, I'm still madly in love with JHutch/Peeta and I simply cannot get over him).  Has anybody else read this series?  Thoughts??

~LL

I am such a Scrooge on Monday's..

It's Monday.  Monday's suck.  And I haven't updated my blog in almost a week sooooo......here I go....

Did y'all have a good weekend?  Mine was nice.  Very low-key.  Aaron and I hung out in Griffin over the weekend spending time with my mom and dad.  I love visiting my parents on the weekends that Adam works because: 1) Aaron has lots more room to run around and play both inside and outside, and 2) I get a break from full-time mommy duty which is always nice.  Yesterday, I went and spent some time with one of my besties, Natalie, who is due to give birth anytime over the next few weeks.  Eeeekkk!  I'm so excited to meet her sweet baby boy!  It was heartwarming to see her and her sweet belly, and to know that in a very short time she's going to be holding that sweet bundle of love.  Very happy and excited for her and her hubby!

On a random note, whilst in Griffin this weekend my mom and I decided to do a little Christmas shopping in G-town (AKA hit up Marshalls).  After putting my whining toddler in a buggy (while he's wailing "I not wide in buggy, I wide in buggy car!!"  The "buggy car" he's referring to is indeed a buggy shaped like a car that he rides in when we shop at Publix.  This.is.my.life.) we proceeded to start shopping.  That's when I noticed a girl in high school....who used to terrorize me.  Literally.  She once chased me down the 400 hall at Griffin High.  I was wearing high-heeled loafers.  Don't hate, that was the style back back then.  She stalked me by phone, threatened me through messages delivered by her buddies, the works.  I'm not kidding, y'all.  I know some people reading this will know exactly who I'm talking about.  I was Lindsay Lohan in Mean Girls eating my lunch in the bathroom (except not really, I would just beg my teacher to let me eat my lunch in my 4th period class room) this girl harassed me so bad.  And you know why she hated me?  All because of a guy.  Now this guy, he was gorge back then.  And it was a full-on high school love affair for me.  Getting back to my story, I run into this girl while shopping.  And do you know, she wouldn't even look at me?!  Seriously.  Saw me walk in, put her face down, and wouldn't even make eye contact with me.  I gave her several chances- she wouldn't bite.  Now let me say, I don't hold grudges.  High school was a long, long time ago and I'm sure she doesn't even think about high school drama.  I don't either, until it's right in my face like it was this weekend.  I just wanted to smile at her.  That's all.  Let bygones be bygones.  She wouldn't make any sort of eye contact.  And she saw me.  Oh well.  I hope she's happy with her life.  And can I just say that it was so nice to run into this person who used to scare the s&*t out of me, and be able to look at her and think "I really don't care anymore."  I wish her the best.  I really do.

Anyway, a busy week awaits.  Another one of my besties is getting married Saturday and I'm so excited for her!!  It is truly a joyous, happy time for many of my friends. :)

I have some news.  Well actually, a new development in my life...................................

I GOT BANGS (again)!!


They're side bangs.  And, I loved them at first sight.  And I still do, surprisingly.  I'll try and post a pic of the infamous bangs.  Agh!  I heart them....again!  Our relationship is like JT and Jessica pre-wedding: they treat me bad but I can't stay away!  The saga continues.....

~LL

Baby Showering

Yesterday we celebrated my dear friend, Natalie's, baby boy who is scheduled to arrive January 4th.  Seven (including myself) of Natalie's family and friends, held the shower at the Baily Tebault house in Griffin. 

The shower was wonderful.  Natalie is glowing and gorge.  Everything from the food, guests, and weather were amazing and there was nothing short of pure love, happiness, and excitement over this precious boy.  Here are some pics:

How cute is this cake??

The initials are JDD for sweet James Dailey Davis "Jimmy"

The loot.  And this is before the other 100 presents arrived!

The grub.  Num num num!

One of the mantles.  Do you like my tilted photography?

Here's a shot of me and the beautiful baby mama and another with the hostesses:

Love.

All of the hostesses minus one (we missed you, Jennifer!)

Now we wait.  Natalie has around 7 more weeks to go.  I told her they need to aim for being the first New Years baby so they can make some moolah.  Here's hoping!

~LL

"Want a sugar cube?"

Oh my goodness.  So much has happened over the past 48 hours that this blog entry might have to be divided into two.  Wow....where do I start?  From the beginning, folks:

Saturday afternoon me and my Macon girls headed to Atlanta to start the bachelorette festivities for our bride, Jessica. Upon arrival at Atlanta Marriott Midtown (and before the glamming up began) we settled in the lobby to wait for the the rest of the party and have a glass of wine.  While people-watching, we noticed that two big, good-looking, bald men in black sweats walked in together (AKA Bodyguards).  My other friend, Jessica, looked at me and said "what's going on?"  And that's when the first sighting happened.  Sam Claflin.  You may have heard of him.  He's playing Finnick Odair in CATCHING FIRE.....the second installment of THE HUNGER GAMES!  Oh My Jesus.  Here's a Google image:

Before I continue, let me give you some background: I've known exactly who this guy is from the minute they announced the Catching Fire casting.  If you don't already know, I'm obsessed with The Hunger Games.  Well, I'm probably more obsessed with Josh Hutcherson (lovingly known as Peeta), but you can read more about that here.  Anyway, Mr. Claflin is not very well-known, but rest assured, after Catching Fire he will be.  He was also in Snow White and the Huntsman with KStew and her mustache lover and director, Mr. Rupert Sanders.

So while sitting in the lobby, drinking some Pinot Noir, and getting ready to get crunk (yep- I said it) in walks Mr. Claflin.  Looking hot as hell.  Running his fingers through his hair, wearing a scarf, and looking all like a deer in the headlights because he had been caught by the biggest celebrity stalker of all (yours truly).  I was in such shock because here we were, out in Atlanta, me being JHutch/Hunger Games obsessed, and a Catching Fire star walks into the hotel we're staying at.  Craziness. He walked past us and my mouth fell open.  All I could say was, "There's Finnick Odair.  That's Finnick Odair.  Oh my God, that's Finnick Odair."  My sweet friend, Brooke, taking one for the team, walked up to one of the bodyguard's that had lingered behind, and asked him if that was "Finnick Odair." The bodyguard laughed, smiled, and winked at Brooke while nodding his head.  By that point I had recovered and was able to tell Brooke his name was actually Sam Clafllin.  Hilarious. 

An hour or so later, after being advised by my oh-so-smart friend, Kristen, that if a celebrity(s) is in a hotel with a bar, they will indeed be hanging out at that bar, we headed to the bar.  (FYI, I just said bar 3 times.)  At this point we were dressed and ready for the evening festivities.  Got to the bar, sat down, ordered a beer, and I'm not even kidding, within fifteen minutes of arrival Brooke nudged me and said "Is that him?"  Sure enough, I looked out into the lobby and there HE was.  Mr. Sam Claflin AKA Finnick.  Holy Moly!  Brooke, taking another one for the team, (she's so fabulous), walked right up to him, and asked him if he would come over and meet us.  (BTW, how adorable is this?  Brooke said to him "I bet you get this all the time.  And he said, no, I really don't."  Agh!  Love him!).  Anyway, I was trying to keep my composure and remain cool (which I am so not) when I could see him making his way over through the bar mirror.  OMG!!!!  Basically, this is how our conversation went from what I remember:

Me:  Hey!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Finnick:  Hey, hello, hello. (In an adorable English accent)
Me:   How are youuuuuuuu???!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Finnick:  Great, thank you.  How are you?  Are you the one getting married?
Me:  (Busting out laughing)  No!  I'm already taken!  (More laughter).  (Then I proceed to wave my left hand in the air like Beyonce does in her "Single Ladies" video.  Not good.)
Finnick:  Oh okay.  (Great smile).
Me:  So, are you still filming Catching Fire?
Finnick:  Yeah.....
Me:  And you'll be going to Hawaii soon to film, right??
Finnick:  Yeah.....(getting real nervous because he has just realized he's in the midst of a stalker)
Me:  Awesome!  (How annoying am I?)  Well, I'm a big fan of the Hunger Games and I am so excited for Catching Fire.
Finnick:  Great!  (Another great smile.)
Brooke:  Would you mind if I took your picture with Hayley?
Me:  Before Finnick could answer, "yes, that's a great idea!!!!!!!!!"
Finnick:  Not answering because I have just wrapped my arm around him and am holding on for dear life.  He's scared to death.
Me: After picture, "Mmmmm.....you smell good.  What do you have on?"
Finnick:  Oh, I'm not sure, just bits of everything.  (Great smile- eeeekkkkk!!)
Me:  Oh okay.  Well, congratulations on the movie!  You probably need to run, right?
Finnick:  Yeah, I kinda need to go.  Nice to meet...

And then he was surrounded again.  By my friends.  And me.  Another picture taken (well more like 4 pics taken as everyone was throwing their Iphones at a nice bar patron that offered to take the pictures).  Here's proof people:

Yay!!  How adorable are his dimples?  And hair??  Can we say Finnick OYeah??!

For those of you that have asked me (or are wondering), no, he does not have on a cape. (lol!)  He has on a red sweatshirt that he had tied at the top.  Why?  I don't know.  He's from England.  And you know what, he's hot.  If he wanted to wear a cape, he could wear a damn cape.  Ya feel me?

Did I mention he smelled delicious??!!

Here he is with the bar gang.  We're not excited or anything.

My face is about to crack from happiness.

So that's that.  We met him.  It was fabulous.  I'm still grinning.


However, none of this would have been possible without our bride.  My sweet, precious, wonderful friend, Jessica.  Jessica, is one of the best people I have ever known.  You know how you meet people in life and you connect immediately?  That's what it was like when I met Jessica.  She is the yin to my yang and I love her to pieces.  She is such a beautiful person, both inside and out, and deserves all the love and happiness in the world.  Cheers to you, my friend!!  The big day's almost here!!!

~LL

Thoughts

I went to Tarjay today to pick up a few essentials and non essentials (shhh....Adam doesn't know.....yet).  Check out my loot:

Beige Lacy Dress

I'm thinking I'll wear this to Natalie's baby shower that I'm co-hosting Sunday afternoon.  It's short so I'll have to wear leggings/black tights underneath, but I'm thinking this with my new BCBG's and some fancy earrings.  What do you think?

Colored Tights

Eeeekkk!  I love these.  I love wearing tights/leggings, and hello??!  Colored tights/leggings??!!  A prissy girl's dream come true!!  Too much?  I'm thinking they will add oomph to a LBD or any solid dress for that matter.

And finally, above is the F21 dress that I'm planning on wearing to Jessica's Bach party Saturday night.  The whole shebang (minus the accessories).  How does it look?  Can you tell I'm majorly sucking in?  No Chick-Fil-A  (at least until next week), shawty!

~LL

Weekend Review

This weekend has totally flown by.  Today I have done nothing.  Well, me and my boys went and indulged in Mexican for lunch and I grocery shopped, but other than that- nothing.  It's been fabulous.

Yesterday was busy.  Last night, me and three of my girlfriends hosted a couples shower for my friend, Jessica, who's getting married in December.  We also have her Bachelorette party in "The A" next weekend which I'm insanely excited about considering I haven't experienced a GNO on the town in quite awhile.  I am positive it will involve: lots of Spanx, a penis necklace and a crown, a dance-off of some sort, some drunk tears, and possibly some vomitage.

Anyway, the shower went off without a hitch.  The food was delish, the guests seemed entertained, and most importantly, the Bride and Groom were happy.  The only thing that was terribly embarrassing (of course, on my part) was when I mistakenly asked a guest if they were going to the Bachelorette party, and she had no clue what I was talking about.  Hello?  Social radar!  Stuck.foot.in.mouth.  I felt horrible....so I drank.

Here are some pics:

The hostesses w/ the Bride: L-R: Laura, Me, Jessica (The lovely Bride), Kristen, & Nicole

BTW, every time I say "Bride" do you think of "Franck" in FOTB?  I do.

Here are a few other pics of the evening.  One thing I learned after looking at the pictures: only tall and thin girls need to wear a dress that hangs straight down that while absolutely adorable (shop my friends boutique Ella Bleu- the clothes are amazing!) made me look like a chunky midget.  Here's proof:

Exhibit A: Me with Eric and Jessica.  Love the top of the dress.

Exhibit B: Me w/ both Jessica's (aren't they lovely?).  Should've worn heels instead of cowboy boots.  I look like a hobbit.

Exhibit C: Uhhh....not good.  Especially standing next to these hotties.

 Moral of this story: I need waist definition in dresses.  Taking note.  Moving on.

I hope all of you have had a wonderful weekend!  If you get a chance, send my father-in-law, David, a positive thought.  He is an avid Dawgs fan, goes to every game, and is at every tailgate cooking up some yummy food for every body, every weekend.  Yesterday, while cooking up a low-country boil at the tailgate, accidentally walked in flip-flops through boiling water (that someone had poured out without him knowing) and got badly burned on his feet.  So bad in fact, that Athens ER rushed him via ambulance to the Augusta Burn Unit where he had surgery today.  :(  Positive thoughts/prayers appreciated!

Enjoy your evening!

~LL

This is my life

Happy Belated Halloween!

I meant to post yesterday, but I had a cooking disaster yesterday morning that has left my hand looking like this:

FYI: Never let me fry sausage patties....like never, ever.  I was channeling my inner Pioneer Woman yesterday morning: turning a rotisserie chicken into chicken salad, and thought "Hey, while you're at it, why don't you fry up those sausage patties in the fridge and make your own version of a Sausage McMuffin?"  Um, never again.  My inner voice told me this was a bad idea as soon as I put the skillet on the stove (always listen to your inner voice, people!).  As the sausage was frying I flipped a patty over and hot grease splashed all over my right hand (cue bloody murder scream).  I think I might need a skin graft.  Regardless, my career in hand modeling was over before it started.  Dammit.

So that little kitchen mishap kicked the day right on off.  I couldn't even take a shower and wash my hair because my hand was in so much pain.  I had to break out the ole' 80's shower cap, and bathe with my left hand...hilarity.  I'm going to tell you what I wore yesterday so you can have a good laugh: black velour pants (because I think I'm JLo circa 2002), a gray tank, a long white cardigan, brown Uggs, and my greasy, unwashed hair pulled back into a pink baseball cap.  Sexay.  AND, I wore this classy number all day yesterday.  Heck, I couldn't even wear makeup- just lipstick, because of this hand injury.  To add to all of the drama?  Sophie May had her annual Vet check-up yesterday afternoon (shots, etc) and a new Vet has taken over the practice, and he's HOT.  I mean like, "What are you doing in Forsyth, Ga hawt?!?"  I literally couldn't have gotten out of there faster.  I started breaking out in that horrible upper lip sweat I do when I get nervous, and my ears had turned a bright shade of tomato.  As a side note, whenever I'm in a situation where I'm nervous, anxious, excited, etc. my ears always turn a bright shade of red.  Never fails.  If I ever do run into ASkars he's probably going to run because it looks like I might spontaneously combust.  This is my life.

Anywho, my hand is better today and I can actually move it without feeling pain.  Aaron and I hit up the dreadful Walmart last night (Tip: if you go to Walmart on Halloween hardly anybody's there) and I got some good burn cream.  We ended up staying in last night.  Aaron had already done the "trick or treating" thing last weekend, Adam was working, and I honestly didn't feel like getting a 2 1/2 year old out in the mix.  I was bummed, but Aaron's still too young to understand what Halloween is.  I definitely think next year will begin the fun, door-to-door trick-or-treating that we loved so much as kids.  I ended up cooking a pot of chili, and catching up on Modern Family eps.  Not the best Halloween, but not the worst either. 

This morning while the little tater tot was at preschool, me and my friend, Jessica, hit up Dillards, Belk, and DSW.  I was looking for some hot pumps for a Bachelorette party next weekend, and y'all I found them.....on clearance at DSW, nonetheless!

BCBG....originally $84.95 got them 30% off for $58.  Still a little bit too much, but they are BCBG, and I do need a pair of platform pumps as I don't have any.....I'm totally trying to justify this purchase and I can't.  It's frivolous and that's that.  I love them and if I don't bust my ass in them, they will be the best 58 bucks spent on shoes in a long time.

Alright, lovers.  Enjoy your day!

~LL

Up All Night

Hey peeps!

How was your weekend?  Mine was great.  Since the hub's is working in Atlanta, I dropped Aaron off at my parents and headed to The A Saturday night.  It was so fun to get away for the evening, even if it was spending the night in a hotel room with my hubby. 

When Adam goes out of town for work he always gets a rental car for the trip.  So, as we were walking out of the Marriott Saturday night, Adam whipped the keys out and cranked up a 2011 Silver Yukon from the sidewalk.  Y'all, we felt so high class.  Usually his rentals are a nice, reliable, good gas mileage car.  Needless to say, we were loving driving around a big gas guzzler Saturday night.  I was hoping if I told Adam how hot he looked driving it, he might be interested in making a purchase, but it hasn't seemed to work thus far.  We'll see how that goes...

We ended up driving to North Marietta to see my sister and her husband's new home.  It was, of course, beautiful.  I'm ashamed to admit, but I have a jealousy streak that's a mile wide.  It's not a great quality, but at least I'm owning up to it.  Anyhow, when we pulled into the driveway in their fancy subdivision, and I laid my eyes on her wonderful new home, all I could feel was happiness for her and Dillon.  No jealousy, no envy, just pure joy.  It was so nice walking into her home, and not comparing, nor feeling sad because Adam and I don't live in a fancy neighborhood, with a Homeowners Association, and a garden tub.  Right now, we're good in our cozy, little brick home.  Maybe we'll have that one day...maybe we won't.  Among the many blessings we do have, the most important one is asleep in his little room, snuggled up with his "night-night," and that makes me feel like the luckiest girl in the world.

With all of that being said, I am SO ready to move to Atlanta after this weekend.  I absolutely loved being there amongst it all.  The good restaurants, the great shopping, the convenience of everything, the fact that I might run into JHutch at any moment (because he is filming Catching Fire in Atlanta right now).  I loved it.  It's no secret that my hubby's looking for a job closer to home, and if that job takes us to The Atl, I wouldn't mind one bit.

Enjoy your Monday, friends! 

New York, New York!

Apparently I was ranting so much about the Emmys yesterday I forgot to announce some big news........

Adam and I are going to NYC!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

We booked our trip yesterday.  Whoop whoop!  We will be celebrating five awesome, wonderful, hard, happy (some not so happy), crazy, years of marriage!  

Because Adam is constantly traveling with work, he has built up a massive amount of flight miles and hotel points.  If it weren't for those miles and points, we would not be able to take this trip so we are very fortunate.  Between the flights and the hotel the only portion we paid out of pocket was $25 in taxes.  Twenty-five bucks for a trip to NYC......yep, we'll take it!  Of course we'll be spending PLENTY when we get there, but we feel very lucky that we're not paying an arm and a leg for it.  Plus, we'll be there in December so we get to see NYC at Christmas- cannot put in words how excited I am!!

So with all of this being said, I need ideas of places to go, people to see, restaurants to try, shows to watch, etc.  The last time I was in New York was May 2003.  Before then, it was August 2001.  I was there almost one month before the towers were struck.  I actually have this amazing picture of the towers I took while taking the ferry to the Statue of Liberty.  I'll scan it and post it one day.  I remember walking by the entrance to those buildings so vividly.  I was making the trip with my then-boyfriend and his mom.  We had gone to the top of the Empire State Building the day before, and we were walking around Manhattan doing touristy stuff the next day.  My boyfriends mother, Ms. Carolyn, asked if I wanted to go inside the towers and go to the top.  I said no.  Actually my exact reply was, "Nah..I went to the top of the Empire State Building yesterday- I'm good."  I will always kick myself for that one.

So please, load me down with information!!  I've got around 2 1/2 months to plan.  Now, we're only going 2 days/2 nights.  Give me the best of the best, pretty please!!

And before I end this entry, if you are a praying person, please say a prayer for one of my besties, Natalie.  Her sweet Daddy is undergoing heart surgery this Friday.

Thanks, boos! 

XOXO!!!

~LL

30 years is a long time!

Last night, my parents celebrated their 30 year Wedding Anniversary.  Isn't that awesome?  30 years.  Sometimes I wonder if Adam and I will ever make it to 4 (kidding, kidding).  But seriously, 30 years is an amazing accomplishment.  When they got married in 1981 my mom was 20; my dad, 23.  Can you imagine getting married so young and actually staying married?  I know, I know, marriage shouldn't be looked upon as something that you can get in and out of so easily.  But let's face it, many people do get married and get divorced two years into their marriage.  Now, I'm not saying there aren't good reasons for divorce and that people who get married should stay married forever; however, I am saying being married for three decades is a long time and something that one should be proud of.

My sister, Megan, and I managed to surprise them last night with a dinner party of friends and family.  We contacted everyone about two weeks ago (such late notice), and luckily, with the exception of a few couples, everyone that we invited were able to attend.  It was truly a wonderful night!  Surprisingly, Meg and I were able to pull of the surprise (We just knew my Mom would find out- she can be a little nosy sometimes.  Love you, Mom!) and it was a hit!  Here are a few pics to document the night:

Baby love

My cute parents and of course, Aaron

The Mamakat & me

Just some of our lovely guests.  As a side note, I suck at taking pictures.  This coming from the girl that told my husband I would like a Canon Rebel for my birthday.  Wth??

Ahh, he's gorge!

All in all, perfect evening! Of course, the hubs was missing but he was definitely there in spirit.

I hope all of your weekend's have been just as sweet!

Happy Birthday, Mom!

Today my sweet mother turns 50.  That's her above.  Isn't she gorge??  I am so blessed that God gave me this woman 29 years ago.  You see, my mother and I are super close.  Honestly, we always have been.  She is such an inspiration and joy to my life.  Everything I know (well, most everything) I've learned from her and I'm so proud of it. 

The most important moments of my life have always involved her.  I'll never forget coming home from work in late 2007; two weeks before I married Adam.  I pulled in the driveway to see my mom's car; she had taken the day off from work to come down and unpack all my shower gifts and find the perfect spot for them in our little house.  Wedding planning, as most of you know, had been stressful, and my mom and I definitely had had our share of arguments over flowers, reception food, and everything else under the sun.  I walked in the door and she was in the kitchen making turkey sandwiches and heating up soup for our lunch.  I, of course, was thrilled that she was there, and for that lunch hour we spoke of nothing wedding.  It was wonderful.  For just an hour, it felt like I was in high school again: just me and my mom having lunch, shooting the breeze, and enjoying each others company.  As I left to go back to work, I felt tears well up; I didn't want my mom to see so I rushed out the door.  As soon as I got back to work, I sat down at my desk and lost it.  Right there.  In front of everybody.  I don't know if it was the soup and sandwiches, the Christmas music that was playing, or the fact that all of my shower gifts were no longer littering my living room floor, but one thing I did know was that the love between a daughter and mother only grows with age; even as you're about to embark on a new journey with someone else.  

After I had Aaron, and was overwhelmed with hormones and mommy-hood, my mom came down and brought over dinner for me and Adam.  I was trying so hard to be brave; acting like this mommy thing was no sweat off my back...until my mom told me she was going back home.  As I hugged her goodbye the tears welled up, and I lost it again.  This time in front of her.  I begged her not to leave me alone with this child; that I loved him, but I didn't know what to do with him, and I was scared.  My mother pulled back and said, "Honey, I know this is hard, but you'll get used to it.  This doesn't feel normal right now, but it will one day soon.  I know you can handle it.  That's why God chose you to be Aaron's mom."  Well Mom, I now know why God chose you to be mine. 

From teaching me how to make the perfect roasted potatoes (which I'm still trying to perfect), to showing me how to properly write a research paper, you have taught me a lot, Mom.  You are the best mother, grandmother, sister, friend, teacher, etc. that I know, and I love you so incredibly much.  Happy Birthday!! Here's to the next 50!!!!

Another trip down Brit-Brit lane

Sunday night was big.  Huge.  Wanna know why???!!  Brit-Brit came back to the A, and yours truly went for a visit.  Yep yep.  I've been blessed with fabulous friends, and my sweet Amy"nae" surprised me with tickets on my birthday.  How lucky am I??  It.was.phenomenal.  Here are some photos to document the big shebang:

Dinner & Cocktails at McCormick & Schmicks w/ Amy

This is how close our seats were to the stage.  Section 4; Row 4.  We're ballin' y'all!

So happy

Had to get my pic made in front of the stage..

Nikki Minaj opened up.  Love her & that Super Bass.

Awesome.

Then Brit-Brit appeared....

and it was wonderful!

Till next time, lover!