The Rollins Family

Last Night...

2012-01-24T09:22:00.001-05:00

Last night, Matthew drove down to stay at my mom's on his way to a business meeting at FSU. MC and I stayed here. It's always an adventure staying home without him, and last night was no different! Y'all aren't going to believe this! I wrote him a letter explaining what happened...

Matthew,

I'm laying here in our bed. A few minutes ago, my heart started racing, and now, well, now it's pounding...so hard that you might be able to hear it all the way in Georgia! I heard a noise. I know, I know, you're thinking, "Delecta, not again!" This time, I think it's real! It kind of sounded like a bang, maybe a door, well, I think it was footsteps, yeah, footsteps! It was footsteps in our house! I'm sweating. There's a man walking around in our house trying to find me! Right now, you're thinking, "you, Delecta, are the only person I know that can make 1000 sq feet sound like 10,000," but stay focused here, there's a man in our house! Remember that time you came home and found that butter knife under my pillow? Well, i forgot to get my butter knife this time! Anyway, can you believe there's a masked man in our house? Oh yeah, I think I saw a mask. He's surely got a mask on. I'm paralyzed! Yep, I can't move! I'm paralyzed! There's a masked man walking around our house and I'm paralyzed! Ok, my leg just moved, I'm not paralyzed after all. Ok, back to the man in our house, wearing a mask, and carrying a knife. Well, he's gonna get me. He's going to shoot me dead, right here with his gun! And here, you're thinking, "I thought you said he has a knife?" I just opened my eyes again and you're right, it was a knife, but I'm sure he has a gun too! Oh my goodness, a knife carrying gunslinger is in our house searching for me! I'm under the covers...completely! It's so doggone hot under here. For some reason, I don't think he will notice the outline of my body raised on the bed because I'm under the comforter! What I'd do for an invisibility cloak right now! Ok, Delecta, stop thinking Harry Potter, and begin thinking about how you are going to fight off this group of men in your house! "Men," you say? Yeah, I thought there was one, but when I opened my eyes again, I think there were three of them! Three masked knife carrying gunslingers right here in our house! I'm about to open my eyes one more time...I think I'm going to sneak out of bed and get the shotgun...ok, got it! Man, this thing is heavier than the last time I thought there were men in the house! I'm going looking for them, hold on a sec...not in the room...not in here either...they're surely in this closet...nope! Whew! Ok, you'll be happy to know that I've checked all of the rooms, the closets, under the beds, and in the showers, and there isn't anyone in here. It must have been that refrigerator noise again! Well, I'm going to bed now, MC's got ballet in the morning. Isn't she so cute in her leotard? Call me when you get back on the road. I think we'll have those chicken wontons for dinner tomorrow night. Mmm. Ok, I love you! Night!

Love, Delecta

Ok, does anyone else do this? I was just talking to my friends, Robin and Dani, about this on Sunday, and here I am doing it again! This fear thing cripples me! Y'all know this, I've talked about it on here before. Listen, those of you who are about to send me scripture about fear, don't worry about it! Got them all memorized! I quote them often every time masked intruders are in my house! I know what it is I need to do, but what I don't know, are the steps to get there! I'm praying that God will deliver me from this, and also praying that I will allow him to! I want to hear your stories! Do you do this? Do you think I'm crazy? Do you think this is normal? I want to hear it!

P.S. - the butter knife story...once, Matthew was gone, and I was of course scared to death. I got a butter knife and put it under my pillow for protection. The next morning I forgot to remove it, and he found it when he got home. When he asked me why there was a piece of silverware in our bed, I explained that I needed protection, and felt like a butter knife was my best bet. You know, anything sharper might cut me in the middle of the night! So, now, we have a gun!

Ballerina

2012-01-20T00:11:00.005-05:00

I remember walking in to my very first dance class like it was yesterday. In fact, it's one of the only memories I have as a small child. I remember the smell of the hardwood floors. I remember the smell of my ballet shoes. I remember peeing in my pants because I was having so much fun that I didn't want to take a potty break. Sad, but true!

All of these memories came rushing back on Tuesday morning when I walked my baby girl in to her first class. As I watched her, tears started welling up, mainly because I realized how fast she is growing up, and if I'm honest, partly because I am growing up too.

From the moment that the nurse said, "it's a girl," I have been thinking about her first dance class. I take that back, it was a few moments after the nurse told us she was a girl, because I took about five minutes asking the nurse on a scale of 1-10, how sure was she that we were having a girl. Apparently, this was offensive? While Matthew was thinking about how many boys he was going to have to beat off of her one day, I was thinking about a beautiful ballerina!

I know what you're thinking, "well, what if MC doesn't want to dance, what she wants to play softball instead?" TOUGH! Ok, I'm kind of kidding. I promised myself that if she didn't like dance after the four trial classes, that I wouldn't force, I mean, encourage her to go back. Thankfully, she loved her first class, and has asked to go back every day. In fact, that night she begged me to let her wear her leotard and tap shoes to bed. Looking back, I should've just let her, I mean, what is it going to hurt?

I snapped what the other moms probably thought was a thousand shots, but I wanted every single detail documented. No, I'm not going to be one of those moms who ends up on the TLC show, "Dance Moms!" Calm Down!

I did make MC a video to keep, which was fun, because I haven't made one in a while. Please know, that the photos look like they do because I was shooting through a glass window with parents glares showing up on the glass. I did think for a moment, of asking them to move, then decided they would probably hold a dance mom meeting about how to get us out. I chose to smile, while trying to will them out of the shots with my eyes! Oh well, darn my manners!

Before you watch the video, I'd like to share my commentary...you will see in the actual video shots: 1. MC doing her "own moves" throughout the entire class. 2. MC being more interested in looking at herself in the mirror than anything else. 3. MC actually bending over while using her hands to try to force her feet to move to ballet first position (my favorite moment) and 4. MC loving those tap shoes so much that she jumps while everyone else does what the teacher instructs so that she can hear them tap! I can't wait for her to watch this back when she gets older, I feel like it will answer a lot of questions she has about herself and maybe her mom too!

Enjoy!

Have you ever found yourself here?

2012-01-12T09:06:00.001-05:00

"But when you pray, go away by yourself, shut the door behind you, and pray to your Father secretly. Then your Father, Who knows all secrets, will reward you." Matthew 6:6, NLT

As I was reading this morning, I noticed my mind wandering (not unusual), but the strange part is where my mind was wandering. I was actually reading God's word, but thinking about who else could use it and where I could share it. While, I don't believe these are horrible things to think, I do believe that my time with Lord wasn't time with the Lord. I wasn't with him at all. Instead of engaging in communication with him, I was engaging in myself! (not unusual) I should've been reading that verse, allowing it to sink in, and asking him how to apply it in my relationship with Him.

Often times, I (and maybe you too) are too engrossed in our "ministry," that we miss what He is trying to say to us. We get caught up trying to: plan a ministry event, create that event on FB, see how many friends "like" it, and dwell on why the others don't! What I mean is, sometimes, we get so busy trying to minister to others that we abandon our relationship with the One we are ministering for!

Maybe you've found yourself in this moment too? Maybe, we need to slow down, find a quiet place, and spend real time with our heavenly Father! The good news is that He desires that time with us, and He wants us to desire time with Him.

This may have just been for me today, but I'm glad that I got it out! :) Happy Thursday!

Operation Bridesmaid Dress

2012-01-09T09:28:00.001-05:00

If your name is Erin Shaw, you were my college roommate, and I'm in your wedding on April 21st, DO NOT READ this post. I repeat, DO NOT READ this post!

Have you ever had to order a bridesmaids dress? Don't you despise having to order ten sizes larger than you typically wear? I have a theory about this...they order so large so that you are forced to pay their alterations fee! Makes sense huh? When they do this, they suck the last ounce of positive self confidence we have right down the drain! I mean, that number stamped in bold on the tag of that dress is a reflection of how our day is going to be when we slide it on, even if we had to practically remake the dress to get it to stay on. And, when that tag starts itching and irritating our back, it's as if it's saying, " remember what that bold number was?"

Well, I ordered what I think will probably be my last bridesmaids dress I will ever wear a few weeks ago for my college roommates wedding in a few months. This was the first time I'd ever ordered over the phone, so I had an idea! I was going to beat the system! That's right, you bridal bullies, you weren't going to get me this time. As I measured myself (which you are never supposed to do for accurate measurements) I pulled tight the measuring tape as I sucked in to get the size I wanted. When I told the bridal consultant my "measurements," she said something that caught me by surprise. (By, "caught me by surprise'" I mean, I started feeling chunks form in my throat and sweat began to bead up on my upper lip). She said, "you are a perfect size _!" As I tried to register the number that just been spoken on the other side of the phone, I was silent! "Mrs. Rollins, are you still there?" she said. I regained my composure, well, enough to assure her that was the size I wore. (I left out the part that it was the size I wore...in college!) We ended the conversation with me paying for a dress that I surely couldn't fit my right thigh in, as sweat was now dripping off my face. So, I'm sitting there thinking, ok, what now? Snack? No!

After the initial shock, I actually talked myself in to this being a great thing! What better way to get back my college body? I mean, I don't have a choice! So, here we go, Operation Bridesmaid Dress is in full swing! I'm talking: daily food logs, spin class, body pump class, and The Greenville Sportsclub getting to know me by name. Join me in my journey to zip up that dress!

Erin, if you read this against my warnings, I'M SORRY! Don't freak out, that dress will zip on April 21st! :)

DIY Felt Rose Scarf

2012-01-04T16:30:00.001-05:00

I have been dying to make this scarf since I saw the one my sister, Sherri, made at Christmas. The nerve of her not to make me one! It's not only pretty, it actually keeps you warm too, which is good seeing that's the purpose of a scarf. It's actually pretty easy to make, but I will say, it's time consuming! If you have a three and half year old, you're going to want to put them down for a nap first! :)

Felt is super easy to work with, comes in a ton of colors, and is inexpensive. For these reasons, I've been inspired to create many more projects using it! While making this scarf, I started thinking about how cute it would be around a certain adorable three and half year old little girl's neck in soft pink! Then, my mind started racing faster than my mom's car when she's behind the wheel! Hair clips, cardigan's, jeans, jewelry.... You all will be sick of felt before 2013!

If you want to make one of these scarves too, check out the tutorial here.

I'd love to see your scarf once it's made, so send me a pic....please!

Day 24 - Announcement

2011-12-21T09:58:00.000-05:00

No explanation needed, you know where we are!

Well, here he is, on one knee. I never thought that I'd see this...Jimmy asked Ellie to marry him yesterday. Wedding information to follow.

We hope that you all can make it for the wedding celebration of the year!

Hang in their with us as Jimmy & Ellie prepare for their wedding day. We will see you back here a little later for more info.

Day 19, 20, 21, 22, & 23 - I'm embarrassed to say...

2011-12-19T21:31:00.001-05:00

...that the reason we have been unable to post was because Jimmy was arrested!

Jimmy decided to get in on the action in the North Pole and got himself arrested. We bailed him out shortly after he arrived, but he had already learned a lot while in the pen...thankfully, it wasn't bad!

He learned about mug shots of course, so he decided to try it out on MC while she was sleeping!

Jimmy actually even headed up a book club while locked up! He heard mention that MC once read this book, so they started with it. The other inmates felt like it may benefit them in their upcoming parol hearings. That Jimmy is such a leader!

At the North Pole Penitentiary, they make inmates take a sewing class to prepare for Christmas, and Jimmy didn't get out of it. I overheard him say that he was making a special surprise for Sassy on Friday. I don't know what this means, but he said, "She MUST beat Lohmar!" It must be some kind of elf code words?

Speaking of Christmas, Jimmy was just looking at the calendar and saw where Santa is coming this weekend! Can you believe it's almost here???

Jimmy has some exciting news to share with you all tomorrow evening! Come back to find out what it is!

Day 18 - Bad decisions.

2011-12-14T23:33:00.001-05:00

Jimmy took a ride on Rody tonight. He said that it was nothin' compared to a wild reindeer!

When Jimmy found the pack of Christmas Peeps, he made the bad decision to eat the whole pack. This was just not smart!

With every bad decision comes a big consequence. Jimmy traded the Peeps for the Pepto! One sick elf, one straw, and one bottle of Pepto is the result of this bad decision!

Day 17 - Settling Down

2011-12-13T22:55:00.002-05:00

Jimmy perched himself up on to MC's baby picture. I guess he just needed to be held? On a side note...isn't that a beautiful baby? (and a beautiful manly arm too!)

When we went to our friend's house tonight for a dinner date, we found Jimmy hanging out with their elf, Jingle. The resemblance is uncanny! MC was a tad confused with the similarities. They were just hanging out at The Hodges Home with the shepherds, wise men, a few animals, and baby Jesus. You know, just a typical Tuesday night!

He couldn't leave without a little snuggle time with Levi!

Many of you have been asking about Jimmy's dating situation since he got himself in a heap of trouble with the ladies of our house. He has decided to settle down, and he chose none other than Ellie to settle down with. I, personally, cannot think of a better match for him. Honestly, I can't believe that he got her to settle down! I wonder how long this will last.

Day 16 - Missing Rudolph

2011-12-13T00:14:00.001-05:00

Jimmy has been slacking on his elfly duties lately, and a lot of it has to do with a little thing called...PINTEREST! Let me guess, you're thinking, "I really need to follow him!" He's pinning left and right, and getting super inspired! SCARY!

Speaking of inspiration...Jimmy's little stunt he pulled tonight was inspired by a special friend back home that Jimmy is really missing. I guess that painting MC's nose red might make him feel closer to Rudolph in some weird way? One thing is for sure, I can't wait to capture the look on MC's face when she wakes up to see this!

Come back tomorrow to see for yourself what that candid moment looks like!

Day 15 - What have I come home to?

2011-12-11T16:27:00.001-05:00

I was out of town last night, and all I could think about was how much trouble Jimmy was getting in to without my supervision. I was about to find out...

When I drove into the driveway, I noticed that our mailbox had been vandalized. He painted over our name, then replaced it with his. This was not the only thing he changed...

I tried unlocking the front door, only to realize that the locks had been changed. Jimmy was in the window with that smirk on his face, waving as to say, "see ya later, this is my house now!"

After changing the locks back and removing the paint from our mailbox, we got our house back in order. Momma is home and not going to put up with this mischief! Come back soon to see how long Jimmy stays out of trouble.

Day 14 - Don't mess with Jimmy!

2011-12-10T00:25:00.001-05:00

When MC found Jimmy stuck in the paper towels, she said, "What in the...mommy, what's the word I can say?" She learned the word, "heck," at school. That world sounds so terrible coming from a 3 year old's mouth, so I don't let her use it. Then she remembered, "What in the world is Jimmy doing in the paper towels?" I love how funny she is when she finds him!

I found Jimmy hustling money from an innocent baby bear tonight. Ridiculous! Don't let that creepy little smirk on that elf's face fool you...

MC has been having nightmares lately. I don't really know what's going on. A few nights ago, I had to kill an invisible spider. You'll do what you have to do at 3:00 AM to get back to sleep as quickly as possible! Well, Jimmy took it upon himself to "protect" MC from any invisible attackers. With shotgun in hand, Jimmy perched himself on top of MC's bed to take watch. (For those momma's who are thinking that I am a terrible mom for letting MC see Jimmy with a shotgun...I'm crazy, but not that crazy! Jimmy moved before MC woke up.)

We'll see you back here tomorrow night...or else!

2011 Rollins Family Christmas Card

2011-12-09T16:40:00.003-05:00

We took our photos over Thanksgiving...in my mom's front yard. I'm sure the neighbors think we are CRAZY! My mom helped me change the buttons on my $15 coat to hot pink satin, she also helped me turn a boy's tshirt in to a cute cardigan for MC. I painted three sheets of sheetrock with black paint. My sister, Sherri, painted the mistletoe and quote bubble for us! She and my nephew's girlfriend, Ashli, took a zillion pics trying to get just one great one. We actually had a hard time choosing which photo to use, and we wanted to share the "others" with you too. So, here they are:

These are just a few more that were just fun!

We hope that you enjoyed our photos as much as we have! We are so blessed to have an amazingly talented family that can help us create fun memories.

Day 13 - "It's so hard to say goodbye..."

2011-12-09T00:37:00.000-05:00

Jimmy had a blast in Tifton, I mean, who wouldn't? There's just so much to do that he actually had to make a "Tifton To Do List," to make sure it was all done. And, like his great mentor (Santa) taught him to do, Jimmy checked it twice. Once he completed everything on his list, it was time to head back to Greenville.

Tifton decided that it was going to try this "winter" thing at the last minute and changed from 80 degrees to 40 degrees in one day. Jimmy said that it would be too cold on his Harley Davidson, so he opted to ride back in the car. MC was so excited to see Jimmy buckled up and ready to go.

When we got home, Jimmy went straight in before we (MC) knew it, and was watching Peppa Pig (one of MC's favorite). He just loves the English accent and the snorts too! It was a long day, and he is glad to be back "home."

I'm nervous to find out what tricks he has up his sleeve next. We'll see you right back here tomorrow!

Day 12 - Repercussions of Day 11

2011-12-07T23:21:00.000-05:00

Day 12 is a continuation from Day 11. If you need a Day 11 refresher, click here.

The result of the Lemon Cheese cake.

After Jimmy felt a little better, he knew that he had to clean up the mess he made. MC was furious! She said, "Jimmy needs to sit in time out!"

So, Jimmy did. He'll be sitting there for a while!

Tomorrow, we head back home! I'm nervous to even say that with only a few hours left in Georgia, Jimmy surely can't get in to that much trouble...right?

Day 11 - Jimmy Caters

2011-12-07T07:55:00.000-05:00

Since we are visiting my mom, and she is a caterer, Jimmy wanted to show her his skills in the kitchen. What would he make? Well, he turned to the only place he knew to turn...Southern Living Desserts!

He made a huge mess! He mentioned that he had been craving a Lemon Cheese Cake, but I didn't think that Lemon Cheese had hot sauce or chocolate syrup in it. He got all of his ingredients mixed and in to his cake pans. I can't imagine how this is going to turn out!

Jimmy is not very patient when it comes to sweets, he kept checking on it every few minutes, willing it to be done.

Finally, it was complete, and I have to admit, I didn't expect it to turn out like this. Apparently, it was really good, because Jimmy ate almost all of it before realizing that he was feeling extrememly sick.

What will MC say about this mess? Will Jimmy get sick? Will he finish the cake off? Come back tomorrow to find out! To be continued...

Day 10 - Road Trip!!!

2011-12-06T06:59:00.000-05:00

Today was the day that Jimmy had been waiting for...a road trip to MC's "hometown!" (It drives Matthew crazy for me to say that! :) Anyway, Jimmy studied the map very closely so that he could get here before we arrived. Before we left our house, MC went from room to room looking for Jimmy, but couldn't find him anywhere. I assured her that he was already on his way to Georgia.

Jimmy hopped on his Harley, and road in to town right before we got here. We just assumed that he flew. Who knew that he would drive a Harley? It definitely fits his, "ladies man," attitude!

When we got to Nunny's house, the first thing MC wanted to do was look for Jimmy. She started searching high and low, and eventually found him in Nunny's Christmas tree. He had his arm around, what looked to be a girl. He said, "don't freak out, it's just an ornament!" I told him that he was playing with fire. He is going to end up in a mess again. If he thought being tied up with lights was bad, he has no idea! You don't mess with South Georgia girls!

I cannot imagine what kind of trouble he's going to cause in Georgia!

Day 9 - Psalm 68:20

2011-12-05T00:36:00.000-05:00

Jimmy had a rough night last night. If you will remember, the girls rallied together & bound him with Christmas Lights and duct tape...a night Jimmy will never forget. After a night like that, things can go two ways: you can learn from your past or you can keep going. Jimmy woke up, scared to death & decided to make a change, well, for today anyway!

He began by watching an online sermon for guidance.

He dove into God's word. After searching and searching, he found exactly what he needed...Psalm 68:20.

"Our God is a God who saves; from the Soverign LORD comes escape from death!" Psalm 68:20

Then he knelt down & asked for, "escape from death!"

I hope Jimmy has turned over a new leaf, but we shall see. Come back tomorrow to find out how long this will last!

Day 8 - Women Strike Back

2011-12-03T22:57:00.000-05:00

A few days ago, MC and I made homemade playdough for her class. Against my better judgement, I kept a little out in a zip lock bag for her to play with at home. When she woke up this morning, she found Jimmy had taken some out and played with it. He must have forgotten to put it back and it dried out. RUINED! Surprisingly, she wasn't mad.

A week of Jimmy's actions with the ladies has finally caught up with him. I knew it had to be coming! The girl's heartbreak, cat fights, and counseling sessions in the end, united them. They rallied together and took care of the situation. Bound and tied up, there Jimmy sits...helpless! I actually heard that after they got him tied up, they presented a gLee-type presentation of Britney Spears, Womanizer, that Ellie choreographed. I wish I could have been a fly on the wall.

Take a closer look at Jimmy at his lowest moment. Does it make you feel for him, even a little?

Day 7 - Jimmy got a "hankering!"

2011-12-03T00:36:00.000-05:00

It seems that while Jimmy went to report back to Santa last night, he made a pit stop at the Elf House Dunkin Donuts. Apparently, it's a lot like the Chickfila Dwarf House? He brought back a few donuts to enjoy with his coffee while doing his elfly duties today.

MC was none too happy when she found Jimmy with the donuts and coffee today. She told me that he wasn't even supposed to have coffee because he wasn't "old enough!" I guess that no one thought the donut thing through...is it a surprise that a three year old child pitched a fit when she found him with donuts but she had none? (Note to self: Remember not to do sweets next year unless he brings some back for her!)

You may think that Jimmy had a "mild" day when it came to his behavior, but you can think again! We found him hitting on "Marka," (Matthew's Grandmother) He made her a paper flower bouquet to woo her, and it just might have worked. I do see a pretty big smile... I'm assuming that after the Spin The Bottle incident last night, that he had to move on away from our house to find himself a new "lady friend." Unbelievable Jimmy!

I'm afraid that Jimmy might still have quite a few tricks up his sleeve, so come back here tomorrow to find out a few.

Day 6 - Snacks, Spa, & Spin (and I don't bicycle)

2011-12-01T23:45:00.001-05:00

When MC found Jimmy devouring her Christmas cookies, she almost cried...seriously! She had the saddest look on her face then said, "it's ok mommy, I will share with him." I don't know if she is just that sweet, or if she was afraid he would report her to Santa. I'd like to the believe the first! Cookies are not the only thing Jimmy got himself in to today...keep scrolling!

After picking MC up from school, we found him creating a home spa with all of my AVEDA products! He used the last of my Dry Remedy Conditioning Treatment, and made a mess with my Hydrating Masque. This elf is unbelievable!

You would think, after all of the hearts he has broken in the last week that Jimmy wouldn't have a chance, but these girl don't learn. I had a talk with each of them, but later found them playing, "Spin the Bottle" with him. I'm disappointed in them all, and I'm almost to the point of calling Dr. Phil. He may be the only hope!

Join us right back here tomorrow evening, and we'll see where he goes next!

Day 5 - Stop and smell the roses...

2011-11-30T23:01:00.000-05:00

Jimmy is a huge fan of The John Tesh Radio Show on the Christmas station. I'm not sure, but I think I've actually heard him call in a few times as an "anonymous" caller. Anyway, John mentioned on one of his recent shows that we should, "stop and smell the roses," Jimmy took him literally. MC went on the lookout as soon as she woke up this morning.

While we were on a lunch date with our friends, Jimmy enjoyed a classic. I had no idea that elves ate marshmallows instead of popcorn while watching movies! Makes sense!

You now know that Jimmy has been burning bridges with all of the ladies in our house. You'd think that bunny wouldn't fall for it after all of the talk going around, but she did. Jimmy took one of the ornaments off of our tree to use as a disco ball. He set up a nice, "8th grade dance," type setup in our kitchen and lured bunny in. She fell right in the trap! She was left broken hearted and all alone. Jimmy didn't even look back, he just headed straight for Santa!

Head back over here to see what tricks Jimmy has up his sleeve next!

Day 4 - There's only room for one elf...

2011-11-29T23:56:00.000-05:00

As soon as MC found Jimmy this morning, she came running! She said, "Mommy, Jimmy is in trouble...he is drinking your coke zero!" She knows that just don't touch momma's Coke Zero!

Apparently, Jimmy & Buddy aren't the best of friends at the North Pole. We found Jimmy drawing on Buddy's face today. "There's only room for one elf in this house Buddy!"

All the girls in the house are talking! Jimmy has them all riled up. Tears have been shed since he showed up at our house! I don't think he knew what he was doing when he tried hitting on Ellie. She's not the kind you take home to momma! Before he left to report back to Santa, I heard him singing, Luther Vandross', Endless Love to her. What a crazy little elf!

MC went to visit Santa today, when we left, she was so upset because she forgot to tell him that she wanted a pink puppy. I told her that she had a pink puppy at home, and she replied, "no, I want a real one!":/

We'll see you back here tomorrow!

Day 3 - Jimmy the Angel (or not!)

2011-11-28T22:38:00.000-05:00

When Marli Claire woke up, the first thing she did was start looking for Jimmy. She ran from room to room until she found him atop the Christmas Tree. The angel had been overthrown by a sneaky little elf!

Later in the day, we found Jimmy entertaining himself, creating shadow puppets. I have to give it to him, I've never seen anyone create Rudolph! I'm sure they are close friends in the North Pole, so he probably had a lot of practice.

Once again, I caught Jimmy making a move. Jimmy, come on, she's wearing a diaper!

We will see you all back here tomorrow to find out what kind of trouble Jimmy's getting in to next!

Day 2 - Adventures of Jimmy the Elf

2011-11-27T19:21:00.000-05:00

When MC woke up on Day 2, Jimmy was sitting right next to her bed, on top of her pink piano watching her sleep! She was so excited to find him when she opened her eyes. I love to see the "magic" on her face as Christmas approaches.

When she returned to her room later in the day, Jimmy was sitting on the piano bench, playing a sweet tune. He had somehow, climbed on to the bookshelf, grabbed a few books to boost him up so that he could reach the keys. MC couldn't believe it...she was laughing uncontrollably!

Last night, before bed, MC found him sitting in her Princess chair in her Ballerina's lap. Jimmy has become quite the ladies man, and is breaking hearts left and right in our house. He played sweet ballerina right before he returned to the North Pole to report back to Santa.

I had to have a counseling session with her as soon as he left. She's making remarkable progress!

If you want to see what kind of trouble Jimmy got in to next, come back tomorrow!

Day 1 - Elf on the Shelf

2011-11-26T23:05:00.001-05:00

Day 1 - Black Friday

Andy & Sassy gave MC a huge surprise this weekend...an Elf on the Shelf. It showed up at their house with her name on it.

(What I want to know is what Jimmy plans to do with the contents of the VS bag!)

I spelled mischievous wrong! Oops!

Come back by tomorrow to see the Day 2 adventure's of Jimmy & MC!

DIY Personalized iPhone Cover

2011-11-26T13:50:00.000-05:00

I had this awesome iphone cover recently that was the perfect combination of metallic gold and hot pink. Yes, some called me Diva, but that was obviously because they were jealous…right? Well, my cover cracked and wouldn’t stay on. I was without a cover for a couple of days when I was getting out of my car at Panera Bread and my phone slid out of my lap and on to the pavement. (Now, MC congratulates me for not dropping my phone every time we go to Panera!) It shattered into what had to be several bazillion pieces. Now, I am going to stop here and ask you a question…why do you think Apple would create a phone made of glass? Beats me! I remember when the guy was selling me on the iphone at the Verizon store, he mentioned that if I was clumsy, I should probably invest in the Otterbox. I took one look at that thing, and thought, “that looks like a Zach Morris phone, no thanks!” I already had my eyes set on a beautiful blinged out pink & gold case at the mall. Sure, it wasn’t great quality, but it was an eye-catcher!

Well, thankfully, Apple fixed my phone last week, and it is as good as new. Now, I needed a new case. When you want to find the best of anything where do you look, Pinterest, of course! I searched every page of Pinterest for the cutest iphone cover when I found a personalized cover. Anything personalized catches the eye of someone who never had anything personalized as a child. Have you ever seen a set of pencils or a key chain with, Delecta, on it? But, fifty-four dollars for a phone cover, you have got to be kidding me. I finally stumbled across a blog that mentioned a DIY personalized iphone cover. I took one look, and knew that was it! My sister and my nephew’s girlfriend helped us with our Christmas card photo this weekend, so as a little “thank you,” I made them one too. Here is what I did:

Step 1: Order a clear phone cover. (I got mine on Amazon for $1.99)

Step 2: Use the insert that comes in the case to figure out the paper size for your personalized insert.

Step 3: Create your insert using digital scrapbook paper, cute fonts, pics, etc. (I used a digital scrapbook paper from ETSY & my new favorite font!)

Step 4: Print & cut out your insert. (You will need to also cut out the hole for your camera/flash)

Step 5: Put it all together and BAM, it’s that easy!

This is mine. I put a verse, Psalm 19:14, on my cover as a gentle reminder as I use my phone to remember the Psalmist's words.

"May these words of my mouth and this meditation of my heart be pleasing in you sight, LORD, my Rock and my Redeemer."

If you decide to create a phone cover of your own, I love to see it, so leave me a comment! :)

Silhouette Necklace

2011-11-08T15:13:00.007-05:00

I found a silhouette necklace tutorial on a fun blog called, Less Than Perfect Life of Bliss. It reminded me of a similar neckalce that I saw at Anthropologie, that I will never be able to afford. I immediately got up and went to Hobby Lobby to get materials...no, I'm not kidding! Living accross the street from Hobby Lobby and Target has been the single biggest mistake of my husband's life!

Let me say, this was the easiest project I've ever completed! Honestly, the hardest part was cutting the tiny silhouette out. It's amazing to think of all of the creations that can come from this one tutorial. You could take pics of anything and make them silhouettes...pets, children, etc. Endless possibilities! I won't post the entire tutorial, but I will share some tips that I found helpful when I made mine.

First, I took a pic of MC in front of a white door/wall, wearing a black top. (She looks thrilled, huh?)

I used Publisher to change the photo from Color to Black/White. When I changed the color, it left a few white spots on her head for some reason, so I just used Paint.net to fill in the spots with black.

Here are a few pics of the finished project! I added another charm, and I'm thinking about adding two more: an initial and a birthstone. We'll see!

You'll find the rest of the instructions here.

Leave me a comment, I'd love to hear how you customized this project.

What a Clown!

2011-11-01T11:37:00.004-04:00

When our sweet girl asked to be a clown for halloween, I was NOT overly excited!

A clown, are you sure? What about something pretty & girly?
No, mommy, I am going to be a clown!
(This was the conversation we had about 20 times before Oct. 31st!)

She told everyone for months that she was going to be a clown. So, I set out to create the cutest clown costume I could think up. I found clown tutu's, but I still wasn't thrilled about the way they looked. My mom and I finally whipped this up, and I was happy with it. More importantly, MC LOVED IT! She wanted to dress up everyday. She was the sweetest clown, and I'm glad she insisted to be one!

The best thing is, it was super inexpensive...here's the breakdown:

* Tulle - 50% off Tulle on the roll at HL ($1.50/color)
* Elastic - $2.00 (HL)
* White Long Sleeve Shirt - $3 (Old Navy Clearance)
* Purple Squirt Flower - $1.00 (Dollar Tree)
* Clown Glasses & Nose Set - $1.00 (Dollar Tree)
* Suspenders - $8.95 (online)
* Tights - $8.50 (online)

We hope you had a great Halloween! Now, let's start planning for some Turkey!!!!

Confessions

2011-08-19T12:25:00.000-04:00

The beach has always been my favorite place to be. I'm that person who goes out at 9:00 AM and is sitting in the same spot at 6:00 PM. If I lived at the beach, I'd be the one that looks like leather. Don't act like you don't know what I am talking about, we've all people watched! We are actually at the beach right now, Edisto Island to be exact. If you've never been to Edisto, I want you to close your eyes and picture this...sand, ocean, Piggly Wiggly. Ok, you have now seen Edisto Island. You're welcome! On top of the fact that there is nothing here, in late August, there is NO ONE here either. I love that. I love that I can look down either side of me, and see only sand and water. I actually pretended while floating in the ocean today, that I was on a stranded island, and when I opened my eyes, I thought it was reality. Don't stop reading because I just admitted that! While I am confessing, I will throw another one out there: When a great song is playing in my car while I am driving, I will sometimes pretend that I'm in a movie. There I said it! Now, that I have typed that, I am crossing my fingers that some of you have done that too. Ok, none of this has any relevance to the purpose of this post.

The real point to this post is that I have realized while here, that I constantly take for granted God's creation. I mean, have you ever looked out at the ocean, and really thought about how mighty, how powerful God is? I haven't either...until today. Looking out, I realized how small I am. God created this ginormous ocean and the beautiful sand, then orchestrated how far the water comes up to meet the land each day. Every detail is simply amazing! Have you ever stopped and looked at your child, and thought to yourself, "Was that child really in my body?" How in the world was she in there? I went through 38 weeks of pregnancy, three years ago, and I am just now thinking about how amazing that is? God gave us a baby, that grew in my body, and is now a three year old running around asking for an iPad (i won't even get in to that right now)! One more example...I remember the first day that I visited Greenville, I drove in and saw the mountains and thought, this is one of the most beautiful places I've ever seen. That lasted for a month maybe? I drive home every day, and in front of my face are those same mountains that I saw ten years ago, and I cannot tell you the last time I have actually seen them. It is crazy that a mountain can be right in front of my face, and I don't see it...a mountain!

We get so busy/selfish with "life," that we miss so many opportunities to worship God, which is why he gave us this life in the first place. I am writing this to myself, that I might now be held accountable to: stop, slow down, open my eyes, and see what God, the creator of the universe, has designed in front of me, and worship Him for it. Today, let's look around us and worship God for what He has created!

Summer Bucket List #24

2011-06-29T12:18:00.000-04:00

I'm checking off items left and right from my summer bucket list. This weekend, I checked off Number 24. When I was making my list, this is the one that I was not sure I'd be able to check off. We just don't get away much now. PMC (Pre Marli Claire), we traveled a ton, and if you have children, you understand why that came to a screeching hault on May 19, 2003. That is the one thing we are working hard to change right now. Matthew had a meeting at Princeton University last week, and our friend was playing baseball in Philadelphia, so we took the opportunity to travel! We had loads of fun, but I am exhausted...STILL! We traveled from Greenville to Princeton to Philadelphia to New York to Washington D.C. and back to Greenville in four days. This was just the first of the many fun getaways to come!

First stop...Priceton Univeristy. Matthew had a meeting for work, so I took advantage of the situation, and hung out downtown Princeton. It was so charming. Wouldn't you know the moment we drove in, I spotted The House of Cupcakes? I am addicted to a show on The Food Network called Cupcake Wars. The House of Cupcakes recently won Cupcake Wars, so I had to investigate! I got the winning cupcake, Espresso Brownie Cupcake with Chocolate Ganache Icing. I know what you are thinking, and yes, it was DIVINE. This place even had cupcakes for dogs, pupcakes. How adorable? I also spent some time in the locals favorite coffee shop for the amazing cappachino that you see. I found a shop full of the most beautiful papers, rows and rows of paper. As I walked in the door, I saw visions of crafts all over our house...Matthew didn't. While he met at the university, I walked around the campus, taking pictures. The architecture was indescribable. You look at the building and think, these have been here for hundreds of years, but in fact, some of them are brand new. They fly stones from all over the world to make the new building look hundreds of years old. (fun fact for your day) While sitting on campus, with my hot pink laptop and hot pink cell phone, I began feeling like I was part of a Legally Blonde movie. Just sitting on the campus made me feel smart, I even joined in on a prospective student tour! Hey, you never know! Overall...a very good day!

Next stop...Philly. We were able to spend some time with our friends Landon and Allyson (and sweet Holden) while visiting Philadelphia. Honestly, that's the only reason we went. Landon plays for the Oaskland A's, and is rarely playing on the east coast. This was a rare occasion, as the A's were up against the Phillies in Philadelphia. We were able to go to the game and hang out afterwards. We enjoyed an amazing lunch with them the next day. I just love that Holden! We walked around the city, taking pictures of amazing American history. I'm embarrassed to admit that if it weren't for the movie, National Treasure, I wouldn't have known any of it was there. Thanks Nicholas Cage! Matthew kept insisting that we visit The Philadelphia Museum of Art. When we got there, he said, "Can't you just hear the music?" What? He said, "You know, the Rocky music!" (he is humming it) Apparantly, in Rocky (about the time I fell asleep I guess) he ran up the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art while training for the big fight. Anyway, we saw it! Don't even think that we left Philly without a famous Philly Cheesesteak! We loved Philadelphia, but we had bigger places to go, and more things to see.

"Now you're in New York. These streets will make you feel brand new, big lights will inspire you. Let's hear it for New York, New York!" Ok, I will stop there. I COULD NOT get this song out of my head the whole trip. (Now, you will probably have it in your head all day! Sorry!) I was so excited about our third stop. It was NOT what I expected. We still had a good time, but New York wasn't like the movies. We hit up the major tourist attractions, and then some. I didn't think my feet were going to make it. You know I wore cute shoes! If I had it to do over, I would get me some of those hi-top black reeboks (you know the ones) and hit the streets running. I'm sorry if you own a pair of hi-top black reebok, this was not intended to insult! I've always wanted to eat a hotdog from one of the street vendors, but you know Matthew wouldn't eat one. While we are talking about food, I will go ahead and tell you where we ate dinner...Rockefellar Center. We literally ate on the ice skating rink right beside the water. What did I eat? BBQ! You know I am a southern girl, if I go to NYC and order barbeque. We went from store to store on 5th avenue, without buying one thing! We even went to FAO Schwarz, without buying a single thing. (MC, if you are reading this, I am so sorry! It was all daddy's fault! On a positive note, I am so proud that you can read!) NYC is such an intriguing city with very intriguing people. While in a cab, we started making small talk with our driver. We learned that he was in school to become a doctor, when his father became very ill, then eventually passed away. He had to quit school to support his family, by driving a cab. He wants to one day save up enough money to complete his education. We assured him that we will pray that he will be able to do just that! I'd love to make another trip in the fall when the leaves are changing, and the weather is cooler. We'll see! Until then...Washington D.C.

Our last stop was for Matthew! For those of you who know him well, you know that he wants to be president one day. By president, I mean, President of the United States. Ok, let me just throw this out there, I AM NOT FIRST LADY MATERIAL! Don't act surprised, you were thinking it too! It was fun standing in front of our future home, The White House, and thinking of the changes I would make. You know, my personal live-in Starbucks barista, shades of pink (my signature color) incorporated in the interior, and that indoor slide I saw on Pinterest. They already have my garden in the back, but I will need to make sure they have the silver queen corn out there. By day four, Matthew was over me taking pictures, and my feet were over walking. After walking from The White House to the Capital Building, I had enough. I hailed a cab, ok, it was really a boy driving a bicycle cart. I have always felt bad for those guys. I mean, it is hard enough to ride a bike, much less with the weight of two individuals on the back. Apparantly, I didn't feel too bad, because I let him drive us to the monument. It was a ton of fun, but after seeing EVERYTHING Washington D.C. had to offer, I was ready to get in the car and head back to South Carolina.

So, there it is, Summer BL #24 is complete. Hope you enjoyed the quick recap!

Summer Bucket List - Number Ten

2011-06-19T20:53:00.001-04:00

Revision to 2011 Summer Bucket List

2011-06-15T22:34:00.000-04:00

2011 Summer Bucket List

2011-06-15T10:47:00.000-04:00

After seeing summer bucket lists floating around everywhere, I decided to make one of my own. I want to have checks in every box and photo documentation by the end of summer! I have a feeling this will be the greatest summer EVER!

Video - Happy 8!

2011-05-31T12:02:00.000-04:00

MC's 05.19.11 Birthday Fun!

2011-05-21T17:42:00.002-04:00

Video - MC's 3rd Unbirthday Party

2011-05-17T23:49:00.000-04:00

Where in the world is...Delecta?

2011-05-17T11:27:00.001-04:00

I’m sitting here right now, at 1:32 AM, still trying to talk myself out of writing this. Most of you may be wondering why in the world I’ve disappeared off of the face of the earth for the past five months. Some of you already know. Here it is…For the past three years, I have been fighting sickness. It started on the day that I delivered Marli Claire. After delivery, I broke out with a crazy rash. I wasn’t overly concerned with it, probably because I had just birthed a child, you know? When we got home, it was gone. I didn’t have any more trouble until I started back to work. The rash began slowly, just a tiny spot under my wedding band, then quickly spread to my entire body. I started going to doctor after doctor, trying to figure out what was going on. These doctors would come in, spend maybe five seconds with me, tell me I had eczema, prescribe me Prednisone, then send me on my way. The problem was, that the minute I stopped taking the steroid, the rash came back…and worse. We won’t even mention the 40 pounds that I have gained while on the steroid. Yep, you read that right, 4-0! Months went by, then years, and no diagnosis. You may be thinking to yourself, where is she going with this or why is she being so dramatic as to say that she didn’t want to write about this. Your answer is coming up, right about now, so pay close attention. This is where the WARNING comes in, if you have a weak stomach, stop reading now! One night, in October (2010), I came home after working a 13 hour day, and this is what I looked like:

I have been embarrassed to let myself be seen like this, and that is why I have selfishly put off writing about what has been going on. Until this night, I had not allowed myself to break down about what we were going through. I say “we,” because Matthew has been right beside me through every second of this. Honestly, working harder at trying to figure it out than I. …but I broke down! I mean, the kind of break down, where my nose spread, I was dry heaving, you know, the “ugly” cry. My husband, who DOES NOT show emotion, broke down right there with me. He pulled me to my knees and said, “Delecta, we are going to pray and beg God to take this away, and we aren’t going to stop begging!” So we are in our living room floor for hours, into the night, begging God to hear our cry, and heal me. Now, I would just like to say here, that this isn’t an every day occurrence in our household. You might get on your knees on the living room floor, in the middle of the night, weeping, and begging God to heal you, but not us. But, let me tell you, I felt like a new person when I got up. I believe this was the first time that I asked God for something, believing with expectancy that He would hear me. What I mean is, I’ve always known that God can and does do great things for others, but just not for me. I’ve never felt “good-enough” that He would want to communicate with me. That is harder to write than any horrible photo I could ever put on here. BUT, I know some of you may feel that way too, and that is why I realized that this post was so important to write. Ok, you may be wondering what happened after we got up from the floor. God didn’t instantly heal me as we prayed (which is what Matthew thought would happen J), but this story does have a happy ending in case you were about to click the big, red X to exit out right now. The next day, Matthew told me that he felt led to fast for three days. (Yes, I do have his permission to write this.) I know that I may be getting a little side tracked here, but it is important to point out that I am writing this for the glory of my God to be shown, and for that reason alone. It may be easy for someone to get caught up in the act of a person, instead of God’s power! While I am so thankful for a spouse that will get on his knees, beg God for healing, then fast for three days on my behalf, that is not the point here, and I can assure you that Matthew would want me to make that perfectly clear as well. I didn’t really understand, fasting, until this. Matthew said that he had been reading God’s word, and came across something that he had never paid attention to before. It was Matthew, chapter 6, that stood out. In the beginning of the chapter, we read about: when we give to the needy, and when we pray. We have all been taught in church or Sunday school about how we are to give and pray, but how many times have you heard it preached from the pulpit to fast. Now, this isn’t a jab at our pastors, this is a jab at myself. I don’t want to hear about fasting. I don’t want to fast! In Matthew 6:16, it doesn’t say: “Delecta, if you want to fast, this is how you should go about it.” Nope, it says, “WHEN you fast…” Ok, ya’ll know how I feel about food. How can I not eat? I might die! These are all thoughts that ran through my head when learning about fasting, and you probably have been thinking those very same thoughts as you’ve read the few sentences before this one. The point is, we are taught to fast through God’s word…enough said. I didn’t fast with Matthew for those three days, because I didn’t understand. We did fast together later, and amazing things happened. For example, Matthew called me one day on his way home and said that we were $300 short on bills. He was so stressed! I reminded him that we were fasting and praying, and that God would provide. Fifteen minutes later, he called me back. He was standing at back door crying. When he got to the home, there was an envelope with $350 in it. Is God amazing? Yes, he is! I could go on and on about how God provided and revealed Himself to us over the last year. What we didn’t understand is why He hadn’t healed me. Matthew said that he just assumed that after fasting, I would be healed, and although, I did feel better, it wasn’t gone. In fact, it got a lot worse. The first week of December, I started getting pretty sick, you know, the usual bronchitis/cold mess that everyone else had. Well, so I thought. I never got better. December turned in to March, and I still had Bronchitis, the Flu, then Pneumonia. This is when I starting thinking, “ok, I probably have some type of cancer/terminal disease.” I wasn’t the only one either, no one could figure out why my immune system had been compromised. I was catching everything that anyone brought to the salon or that MC brought home from daycare. There were two nights in March, that I knew I wasn’t going to live through the night. Now you may be thinking that is a bit dramatic, but I can tell you one thing, I stayed up all night with my husband begging God to let me survive the night. I could not catch a breath between the wheezing and the vomiting. We couldn’t understand why I was getting worse if we were being faithful in prayer.

At this time, I allowed myself to fall deeper into a life filled with fear. I was so scared that God was going to allow me to die, and I would leave my family. (yes, I do know that Heaven is a much better place!) Fear consumed my life, invading my every thought. One night, I was getting ready to take a bath, when Matthew came in with his computer. He said that he heard a podcast earlier that day that I needed to hear. It was a cast by Craig Groeshel, speaking about fear. He said that our biggest fear is what we trust God the least with in our life. OUCH! He went on to talk about how his wife developed this mysterious sickness that the doctors couldn’t figure out, and how she began living in fear. She had the very same fear that I had. He said that one day she decided to give the fear up, and her sickness was gone. I sat there and cried until my bath water was cold. I was so ashamed that I allowed myself to lose trust in God’s plan. The challenge that I had was knowing how to give up a fear. It is easy to say a prayer and ask God to help you give up this life of fear. The hard part for me was actually knowing how to give up the fear. I didn’t know where to start. I would like to say that I sit here today, fear free. That would be far from the truth. It is a daily struggle that I am dealing with, but I am working on it.

Since that night in the tub, I found a doctor that spent time with me, shed tears with me, and figured out that I have an allergy to a chemical called PPD, that is in a ton of things, including hair color. Yep, I am allergic to my job. How many people can actually say they are truly allergic to work? It may seem that I am ok with this outcome, but you see, I have skipped the many months of balling my eyes out, and am writing about it now. I ended up having to quit doing hair. The allergy became airborne, and was literally about to kill me. I am thankful for the healing that God has done in my life, physically and spiritually. You see, healing doesn’t have to be an instant disappearance of symptoms. God chose to heal me by allowing me to find the right people to diagnose. I have heard, what seems like a million times, “God has something greater for you Delecta, so don’t get discouraged by losing the career that you loved.” I will admit, this is NOT what I wanted to hear when I found out that I had to quit my job. I will also admit, that I know that God has something great for my life to reveal His glory in a bigger way! I look forward to the big reveal.

You may be wondering (after I have written this book J), what made me decide to write about this. Well, I was reading a book called Sun Stand Still by Steven Furtick. Steven, his beautiful wife Holly, and I sang together at NGC. You need to stop reading this post right now, and go to Barnes and Noble and get this book. Ok, you can wait until you finish reading this, then go. Seriously…Go! I won’t give all of the good stuff away, but I want to share what made me realize that I had to post this. In one of the last chapters in Steven’s book, he writes, “…your crisis is your greatest opportunity to see God’s glory and goodness revealed- and to have the high honor of revealing Him to others.” Am I willing to let my embarrassment about the way I look hold me back from sharing God’s glory to others? Not any more. I pray that you’ve experienced the glory of God through this post. What is it in your life today that you are scared/ashamed to ask God for? Do you think it’s impossible? Ask God for the impossible! It will rock your world!

2nd Annual Easter Cake Competition

2011-04-24T20:21:00.005-04:00

VOTING BEGINS NOW AND WILL END WEDNESDAY 12:00 AM. GET TO VOTING!

The competitors would like to say a special, "thank you", to our cake baker, Linda Morrison aka mom aka Nunny.

Well, here they are! The 2nd Annual Easter cake competition was anything but friendly. The 2011 competitors came out ready to fight. After last years tie, the trash talking began. We were short one of our key competitors, and we would like to say, "We miss you terribly Austin, and can't wait for you to get home!" However, we did add a new competitor, Marli Claire joined in the "fun." I won't tell you which cake is hers, but it won't be hard to miss. She didn't want any help, she thought she could do it better herself!

Without further ado...

Cake #1 - ANYTHING YOU CAN DO

Cake #2 - TWILIGHT

Cake #3 - COSMIC LOVE

Cake #4 - RICKY BOBBY

Cake #5 - THE BIRTH OF THE EASTER CHICK

Cake #6 - DON'T MESS WITH ANGRY BIRDS

Video - MC's 2011 Christmas Video

2011-01-13T11:46:00.000-05:00

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-25T00:00:00.000-05:00

2010 Christmas Card

2010-12-24T01:48:00.001-05:00

(click on the card for a larger view)

My oldest nephew's girlfriend, Ashli, took our photos for our Christmas cards this year. She did an amazing job! Ashli is so talented, and I am excited to show off her work. The only thing I want her to work on is photoshopping about 40 pounds off my body. She said something about, "photoshop doesn't have that action," but I personally believe that they could sell more if they had the "Photoshop Liposuction Action." I'm just sayin'!

Back to the card, many of you have asked if we are homeless because we have a bed outside. While, there have been a few times that I thought we would be homeless, and several more times that I thought Matthew was going to be homeless (Matthew, IF you are reading this, I am only kidding! :), we still have a home, and we do sleep indoors. Thanks for all of your concern!

I thought I would share a few of the pics that didn't make the "2010 Rollins Family Christmas Card" cut!

The next photo simply didn't make the cut due to my "new-growth," aka ROOTS! The good thing is, that I've always said, "you can't trust a hair-stylist with perfect hair," and I sure don't have perfect hair! You may be thinking to yourself, "I wonder why you can't trust a hairstylist with perfect hair?" If we have perfect hair, then we have too much time on our hands. If we have too much time on our hands, it means that we aren't busy. If we aren't busy, we most likely aren't doing something right, if you know what I mean! Get it?

p.s. - I did get my hair colored soon after this photoshoot!

I love this next photo, but you all know that I've mentioned my OCD on here before, and it was in rare form on this particular day. I just couldn't have two different colors on the card. Some of you will understand! I love what she did with the lights!

So, if you happen to be in Tifton, Georgia, and you need some pics, you would be crazy not to call Ashli! She didn't even have to pay me to say that!

Also, many have asked about the bed. No, we are not ever going to sell it! We were given this bed and the pieces that accompany it by some family friends of ours. Isn't it gorgeous? You will see it again soon, when I post pics of MC's new "big-girl" room. You may not recognize the bed, it is now a lovely shade of light aqua. Post coming soon! Yes, I PROMISE!!!

Until next time, Merry Christmas Eve!

Video - MC's Halloween 2010

2010-11-02T21:20:00.000-04:00

Paci Postponement

2010-10-27T08:06:00.000-04:00

So, the paci removal has been postponed due to illness of the paci princess. Friday night, MC got really sick, I mean SICK! I will spare you the details. Anyway, by 5:00 AM Saturday morning, we were sitting in Greer Memorial. Of course, she was over it a few hours later and back to her old self, but I couldn't bring myself to take her paci away after that ordeal. She pulled out all of her tricks to keep her "baci." I thought that I'd share a pic from Saturday morning so that you could share in our experience. (she didn't have to wear the mask, we just knew that the grandparents would feel more sorry for her if we sent them this pic)! She was saying, "cheese" behind the mask!

I will keep you updated on the paci removal!

Contest - MC's "baci"

2010-10-19T14:40:00.000-04:00

If someone could understand how much easier life would be for me, they would invent this "paci patch." I only hear the phrase, "Mommy, I need my "baci." I really NEED it!" a few hundred times a day. For those of you who don't know what a "baci" is, please see the following definition.

baci (noun) - pronounced (bah*see) - Marli Claire's pacifier. (NOTE - she cannot pronounce her p's yet!)

To be honest, if I would have taken the paci away six months ago, I wouldn't be in this mess that I've gotten myself into. MC wasn't even attached to it then. Oh but now, now, it is her best friend. And now, it is time for momma to break up this friendship. I don't really understand why she is attached to it, she doesn't even suck it, she just rolls it around on her tongue. It's actually pretty gross! There have been many stares, fingers pointed, and comments made about the "unique" way MC enjoys her "baci."

I really didn't think much about taking it away until several people started making comments to me in stores. They would start by asking how old she is. Then ask, "oh and she still has a paci?" Ok, so, I admit that I see kids in stores and think the same thing, but NEVER have I actually said those words to anyone, much less a stranger. I mean, it's not like she's 12 years old! I must have sucked my thumb until I was 12. (no comments needed here!)

Well, it's that time, we are giving the paci up. I've decided that this Saturday will be the day. We would appreciate your thoughts and prayers as Saturday is quickly approaching! So, here is the fun part, we have heard many ways that other parents have used to take "paci" away. Things such as "another baby needs it, and you are actually helping a sweet baby by giving your paci away" as they mail the paci to the new baby. Another method we have heard is poking a hole in the paci so it flattens when the child sucks it, resulting in dislike of the paci. (this method doesn't work if your child doesn't actually suck the paci!) Probably the wierdest method we have heard to date is to tell the child that a squirrel came and took the paci up in a tree. Yes, I do understand that all of these methods mentioned are deceitful, but what is a momma to do? Here is where you come in, Matthew and I are choosing the best idea left in the comments section below. What does the winner get? The pure satisfaction of helping us raise our child! So, get to posting, we need your help!

Check back Saturday to find out who wins and how effective the method is! We will have actual video footage!

We held a final photoshoot with MC's "baci," and as you can see, she is mighty proud of it!!!

If you are thinking, "is she not even going to mention the fact that she hasn't blogged since August?" This part is for you! LIFE!!! That is all I can say! But, I'm back and ready to blog! Thank you all for nagging me about being slack!

MC "helping" bake cupcakes!

2010-08-03T16:57:00.000-04:00

Church Incident #2 (well...as far as we know anyway)

2010-08-01T18:16:00.000-04:00

Today, in our church life group class, Sheila and Corletta mentioned that they saw MC in the church nursery. I asked is she was being wild, because we ALL remember the incident a few months ago. They said she was sweet. (not even going to comment here) When we walked down to pick her up, this is how we found her:

Where was her dress, you might ask? IN THE TOILET! What was the name of that book the nursery worker mentioned a few months ago? There is nothing more to say.

Mr. and Mrs. Coffee aka My In-Laws

2010-07-26T15:43:00.000-04:00

Yes, I’ve been sneaking around and getting a daily dose of Starbucks. Yes, I know it’s wrong! Yes, I am going to change. And, yes, I have ANOTHER plan!

My plan = coffee at home (FOR REAL)
My challenge = no coffee pot

In December, Matthew and I had friends over for a Hot Chocolate Bar. I had the bright idea of using our Senseo Coffee Maker to make hot chocolate. You may think that this isn’t a big deal. Well, I use milk in my hot chocolate instead of water. So, milk got stuck in the tubing and soured, so needless to say, I threw away our Senseo. How in the world am I going to make coffee at home without a coffee maker?

My father-in-law is the biggest coffee drinker that I know. He has HOT coffee in 100° weather. I have actually witnessed him fall asleep on several occasions with a mug of coffee in his hand. Surely, he has an extra coffee pot lying around some where, right? I asked and sure enough he did. Matthew went to pick it up last night so that I would stop spending $3.40/day on coffee, but still get my fix. The coffee pot was no where to be found. While out to eat with two girlfriends (Allison and Rachel, I had a blast!), my sweet in-laws brought over a brand new coffee maker, coffee filters, and none other than Starbucks ground coffee. They are amazing! While I NEVER expected this gift, it is very much appreciated.

Thank you, Eddie and Elizabeth for this very thoughtful gift. You did NOT have to do that for me. I hope you know that we appreciate you very much!!! Your new nicknames? Mr. and Mrs. Coffee in reference to my new Mr. Coffee coffee maker!

Video - MC shows Sassy how to floss her teeth!

2010-07-20T09:58:00.000-04:00

An afternoon with a song Byrd!

2010-07-07T17:13:00.000-04:00

Tuesday, Matthew surprised me with a vocal lesson with vocal coach, Debra Byrd, of American Idol. I didn't know whether to be mad at him or thank him. Many have asked how in the world he got her to agree to work with me. I would like to say that he contacted her once and she miraculously jumped for joy to hear me sing. I think you can tell by my sarcasm that didn't happen. No, he pestered and pestered and pestered her until she finally agreed. It was (1) have him arrested for harassment or (2) just spend an hour with me. Thankfully, she chose #2.

As many of you know, I have taken a 2 year singing sabbatical. Don't ask why, because I couldn't tell you. Byrd worked with me for an hour and half, and as she said, it was a counseling session more than a vocal session. My challenges are in my head. I allow others to help me decide whether I'm a "good" singer or a "bad" singer. I also get physically sick before I sing. This is not normal. While singing with a group in college, I had the privilege to sing in front of thousands several times a week, and never felt this way. After college, something happened in my mind, and nerves set in. Right now, some of you reading this post are thinking, "she doesn't need to worry about that if she is singing for the Lord." (said with a Betty Baptist voice) Ok, I DO know that! Anyway, now that you all know my life's singing story, I will move on.

She shared with me, exercises that I can do to calm my nerves. She said that singing more and more will help with my insecurities and that when she checks in on me, I had better be singing. I like to think that Byrd and I are BFF now, although I highly doubt she is blogging about me. She is such a cool lady! It was such an honor to be able to work with her.

I am thankful for a husband who: drove me crazy for 2 years because he thinks I'm the greatest singer in the world, prayed for the Lord to take my talent away and give it to him if I didn't start using it, and who would pester this lady behind my back until she agreed to work with me. Thank you Matthew. I AM BLESSED!

P.S. - Thank you to my sweet friends Jonny and Allison too!

It's Independence Day!

2010-07-04T21:37:00.000-04:00

Dear Matthew,

2010-05-31T11:01:00.001-04:00

Dear Matthew,

Seven years ago today, I was: getting my hair and makeup done, ripping my skirt turning a cartwheel in the church yard, playing Tetris to calm my nerves, and walking down the aisle to say, “I do.” That day, I had no idea where we were going or what we were doing, but I knew I wanted to be with you. That day, I couldn’t have known the ups and downs we would go through, but it wouldn’t have mattered. I couldn’t have known that in five years, you and I would have the most beautiful baby girl in the world. I couldn’t have known that I could be so happy with our wonderfully simple life. Thank you for taking such good care of me. Thank you for loving me for who I am. Thank you for being my husband. I love you. May 31, 2003 was a great day. Happy 7th Wedding Anniversary!

Love,
Delecta

Happy Birthday Marli Claire!

2010-05-19T09:09:00.000-04:00

Today, my baby girl turns 2. It's hard to believe that it has been two years since she was born. When I look back at MC's first year in pictures, I get emotional, but when I look back at this year, I lose it! She learned to walk, talk, dance, and so much more. I just cannot get over how fast time is flying by us. Happy Birthday Marli Claire!

Video - Fiesta

2010-05-17T09:25:00.000-04:00

Saturday, we celebrated Marli Claire's 2ND birthday with a fiesta. She had a blast! We would like to thank you all for coming to celebrate with us. I put together a slide show of the fiesta highlights.

Some of you asked for several of our fiesta recipes. I thought it would be easier to include them here. [You can click on the recipe to view a larger image.] The corn salsa and southwest sauce are unbelievably good as toppings on your tacos or as a dip with chips.

Random Rambling Tuesday - Thanks!

2010-05-11T11:11:00.000-04:00

As I reflect on Mother's Day 2010, I realize just how blessed I am. I am the daughter of the greatest mother on earth, I am the mother of the greatest daughter on earth, I am a sister to two incredible mothers, and I am the daughter of an amazing mother-in-law. Blessed beyond imagination!

Although I could never thank my mom enough for the things she has done for me, I would like to throw some pretty big ones out there! For some reason, I couldn't find a Hallmark card that included all of the following.

Mom:

* Thank you for not beating me when I took your tithe money and walked to Dairy Queen and got a combo when I was 12.

* Thank you for not kicking me out when I came home with a tattoo.

* Thank you for loving me through that really odd "grunge" stage that I went through.

* Thank you for letting me have "personal days" from school when I just needed to stay home.

* And thank you for taking "personal days" from work when I needed you to stay home with me.

* Thank you for telling my crazy boyfriends that you knew a man in Willacoochie, Georgia that would kill them for $100 if they messed with me.

*And thank you for NOT telling Matthew that until we were already married.

* Thank you for making me write that report on lung cancer when you caught me smoking that cigarette butt off the ground in the back yard. It taught me that I NEVER wanted to do that again!

* Thank you for telling me that every pageant I didn't win was rigged.

* Thank you for never missing a single event that I ever participated in.

* Thank you for thinking I am a better singer than the artist of EVERY song I've ever sung.

* Thank you for raising three girls all by yourself.

* Thank you for driving us to the grocery store at 2am just to get stuff to bake us cookies when we had a craving.

*Thank you for never telling anyone that I was the one who sprayed the pepper spray on accident in the Subway bathroom that ultimately shut the place down for 24 hours. I promise I thought it was room deodorizer!

* Thank you praying for us every day.

* Thank you for never letting me quit anything I started even though I really wanted to.

* Thank you for making me laugh!

* Thank you for moving me in to Valdosta State University, then moving me out the next day to keep me out of trouble.

*Thank you for never getting mad when you were almost asleep, and I'd have just ONE more thing to tell you about my day.

* Thank you for taking me to church every time the doors opened.

* and much much more!

Mom, thank you for everything! When we say that you are the greatest mom, we mean it. I don't know of any other woman who could raise three girls alone, while working multiple jobs, going to school, making our clothes, and staying sane. Ok, the sane part was stretching it. You are truly amazing, and I hope to be half the mom you are to my children that you have been to us. You are the most humble, giving, and compassionate person I know. I want to be just like you when I grow up! I love you.

R.R.T. - Just Like Home

2010-04-27T20:43:00.000-04:00

MC received a kitchen stocked with food, pots, and pans for Christmas. I never noticed anything strange about it until I looked at this picture today!

Chucky? Is that you? What in the world? What sick person would include a butcher knife in a kid’s kitchen set? My child has been playing with a fake butcher knife since December. I don’t know why I did not notice until now.

The Just Like Home Betty Crocker Set is what I chose for MC’s Christmas gift. We have thrown away several things from the set for various reasons. The hot dog wieners were the first to go. First of all, they look disgusting. Secondly, MC gagged on one after sticking it down her throat.

Although we have thrown away most of the parts of the kitchen set, MC LOVES to play with the pots and pans. She brings me a pot, and I pretend to guzzle it down. She will turn around and point that little finger of hers and say, “No Mommy, it’s Hot Hot!” I guess she has heard that a time or two.

Well, it's random I know, but you were warned by the title, so don't blame me for wasting your time!

30 at 30!

2010-04-22T12:18:00.000-04:00

So, I turned 30 a couple of weeks ago. I want to thank you all for wishing me a Happy Birthday! Most of you know that my motto for this birthday was, "I'm giving up being a very old 20, and starting a new year as a very young 30! I heard some great things from you all, one of my favorites, 30 is the new 20. So true!

I posted in January about my lifestyle change, aka my diet, but I haven't updated you since then. Since the middle of January, I've lost 30 pounds! I have also started working out with a PT 5x/week. I feel better than I have felt in a long time. I'm almost back to my college weight!

Anyway, speaking of my birthday and diet. Wait a minute! Those two things don't go together at all. You can't diet on your 30th birthday!!! I thought I would share a pic of my birthday lunch.

After lunch, we hung out with my family, watched Marli swing in her new swing (thank you ANDY), and then went to dinner at Thaicoon. I forgot to mention the delicious cupcake from my favorite shop, Iced, that I enjoyed in the middle of the day.

The next day, after church, my family went with us downtown for some pics and gelato at Luna Rosa. I am starting to see a pattern here. I think the only thing I did for my birthday is EAT! Here are some pics from downtown:

[I did steal/borrow these pics from my sister's blog, which happens to be the funniest blog EVER!]

There you have it! 30 is the new 20!

2010 Collage - March

2010-04-14T16:05:00.000-04:00

Yes, I do know that it is the middle of April! I took these photos when it was still chilly out in the middle of March, but hadn't put them together in the collage until now. Sorry!

I say this every month, but MC has completely changed since the last collage. She loves to sit in the refrigerator. She fake cries, even with the words, Boo Hoo, then says, "OK!" She has recently become more attached to "Ellie," her pink elephant that Gruff Gregg and Sweet Miriam gave her when she was born. She loves to be "mommy" to her dolls by rubbing their backs and kissing them. She loves to sing, and has the loudest voice of any child in the world! She says, "I miss you mommy." (even if I left the room for 1 second) I always reply, "I missed you too Marli Claire." Then she will say, "I know Mommy!" Her favorite food is Hummus and Pita Bread! Weird, I know! She loves to hide from us, and if we don't start looking for her, she will yell, "Where did Marli go?" She still giggles all day, and talks nonstop! She is still the love of our life, and I cannot imagine that will change by the April collage!

Random Rambling Tuesday

2010-04-13T17:42:00.000-04:00

Are you surprised that childhood obesity has recently risen to new heights? If you can't imagine why this is, check this out:

What is it? This is a plate from one of my favorite local restaurants. The crazy thing is, this is a kid's meal! That's right, a KID'S MEAL!!! This is OUTRAGEOUS!

Easter 2010

2010-04-08T13:18:00.001-04:00

And the winner is . . .

2010-04-06T12:15:00.000-04:00

It was neck and neck for a while, and it was a close one this year! The votes for the 2010 Easter Cake Challenge have been tallied, and the winner is . . .

A TIE!

Hippity Hop Hip Hop (Andy Youngblood) and The Spring Fling (Me!) have tied for first place.

The other contestants were amazing, and have already begun thinking of their cakes for next year!

Cake #1 - Hippity Hop Hip Hop (Andy Youngblood)

Cake #2 - One The Wings of Love (Ashli Fletcher)

Cake #3 - Beautiful Disaster (Austin Youngblood)

Cake #4 - Spongebunny (Amanda Dietrick)

Cake #5 - Squidbillies (Ches Youngblood)

Cake #6 - The Spring Fling (Delecta Rollins)

Cake #7 - YES WE CAN! (Matthew Rollins)

We had our own winner with at-home vote, and Matthew took the grand prize of the TJ Maxx gift card (a value of $11.77). Sidenote: The TJ Maxx gift card was the result of a return of two shirts.

[Check back this afternoon for Marli Claire's Easter pics!]

Vote - 2010 Easter Cake Challenge

2010-04-04T00:32:00.000-04:00

We have started a new Easter tradition with my family, cake decorating. The best part is that none of us are cake decorators. The artists in our family weren't allowed to participate, and the cake decorator is serving our Lord in Namibia. With that said, you know that what you are about to see on the following videos is pure, raw, and natural talent!

What we want you to do is view all of the following cakes, and pick your favorite. The judging criteria is as follows:

* CREATIVITY

* DIFFICULTY

* THEME

The voting begins now, and will end at 11:59 PM on Monday, April 5, 2010. So, sign in and leave your comment to vote for your favorite cake!

Cake #1 - Hippity Hop Hip Hop

Cake #2 - On The Wings Of Love

Cake #3 - Beautiful Disaster

Cake #4 - SpongeBunny

Cake #5 - Squidbillies

Cake #6 - The Spring Fling

Cake #7 - Yes We Can!

[When the voting is over, check back to see the winner revealed! Also, check out the Full Length Cake Challenge Video from our Kitchen Stadium, including contestant interviews, tips, and more.]

R.R.T. - Girl Scouts

2010-03-30T09:20:00.000-04:00

I have a bone to pick with those sweet little girl’s we call Girl Scouts. You think that they are sweet? Did you know that they are secretly sabotaging our diet plans? Huh, did you know that? Well, there you have it! The truth is the truth, and the truth will set you free! That is my message to all of you girl scouts out there!

You want proof, well, here’s your proof! Have you ever realized when they come out with their delicious cookies? March! Right when we’ve finally decided to change our lifestyle. Right when we’ve decided to get ready for bikini season. Ok, right when we realize that we will never be in a bikini again, but we don’t want to be confused with a large mammal while on the beach. Yep, that’s when they decide to march up to Walmart in their cute little outfits, set up their table, and entice me to buy their little bites of heaven.

This is a true story:

Plot: to sabotage my diet plan
Setting: Walmart in Tifton, GA

As my sister and I walk up to the table, we notice the handwritten sign hanging from the front. This is what it said:

ME: We will have one box of somoas.

GIRL SCOUT: We aint got no somoas.

ME: (thinking about telling her that she should actually say, “I’m sorry, we have sold out of Somoas.” Instead, I keep it to myself!) Well, we are here so I guess I will buy the Tagalongs.

As we are driving away, we notice the other table of girl’s at the opposite entrance of Walmart. Sherri literally screeches to a halt, I jump out, and run for the Somoas. So, now, we are in the car alone with two boxes of Girl Scout cookies. This is bad! REAL BAD! I will let you use your imagination as to how many were left when we got back to my mom’s house.

Now, here’s my random rambling for today, what do you think the strategy is to displaying these little bits of goodness in March? Why not November? In November, we are gearing up for holiday season. In November, it won’t even make a difference if we ate two boxes of cookies on the way home! Woops! In November, we aren’t really concerned with swimsuits or whales!

So, there you have it! Now, I want to hear from you! Do you think it is a conspiracy theory or what?

Get out of the fridge!

2010-03-27T08:51:00.000-04:00

When we say, “Marli Claire, get out of the refrigerator,” we mean it literally. For some really ODD reason, every time we open the door, she runs in and sits down. I have no idea why she enjoys sitting in the fridge. I have no idea why she throws a fit when we have to DRAG her out. I have no idea how long this phase will last.

Tutorial - Tank Top Refashion

2010-03-25T08:11:00.000-04:00

Ok, first things first, I DO NOT SEW! I'm serious!

I decided to ATTEMPT to create a tutorial for these tanks after hearing from several of you. I use the word, attempt, because I am not sure that I can explain well enough for you to recreate. Please know that I have full confidence in your skills, it is mine that I am unsure of. I would love to see pics of your tanks/shirts.

Speaking of, this can be done with any type of shirt or tank top. Also, you can attach the rosettes however you like. I have seen them placed around the entire neckline which is adorable.

Funny story: I ran in to my beautiful friend, Corletta, while wearing this, and she asked to see the underside of the tank. If you could see the sewing on the underside of the tank, you would understand why this is a funny story!

Well, off you go, get to work, start creating!

Step 1: You are going to cut three circles for each rosette. Use a soda can (Coca-Cola Classic is my favorite, but you can use what you want! Just sayin’!) to outline your largest circle. The other two circles have to be smaller than the one before. [It doesn’t matter the size of the circles!]

Step 2: Pinch the back side of the three circles to form the rosette.

Step 3: Use a needle and thread to finish the rosette.

Step 4: Attach the rosettes in bunches to create the look you want.

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS:

[Completed Reosettes]

[Up close and personal]

[embarrassed that this tank could be decoration in our bedroom]

[Marli and Me]

Random Rambling Tuesday

2010-03-23T13:36:00.000-04:00

RANDOM RAMBLING TUESDAY - NOT QUITE A TUTORIAL

I don’t feel that I can adequately give you a tank tutorial just yet. These things take time! I want to perfect, then educate.

I happened upon an adorable blog, and saw this tank. I thought to myself, “DDDIY!” I am determined to prove myself wrong on this one.

I started out with 2 tanks: 1 very large boring black tank and 1 very small boring gray tank. [Notice the size of the tank that was cut up!]

This top looks much much much better on an actual person!

I probably should not share the following close up photo of the ruffles. You can see all of the imperfections. Oh well!

In one of Dr. Cloud’s sermon points on Sunday morning, he stated (not verbatim) that you should say aloud things that you want to be, even though you are not that person yet. My nephews would say, “CLAIM IT!” You can tell that I was paying attention on Sunday morning when you look at this next photo.

Can you believe it?

[SIDENOTE: ALTHOUGH IT LOOKS LIKE I DID IN THIS PHOTO, I DIDN'T CUT MY HAIR!]

Happy 100th Post - Happy Birthday "Marka"

2010-03-22T11:16:00.000-04:00

We are celebrating two events today. First, this is my 100th post, but more importantly, it is Ma Ma Martha's birthday today (Matthew's grandmother). MC calls her "Marka," and loves Marka very much. We had a great time celebrating her birthday last night. Just wanted to share a few pics with you.

Random Rambling Tuesday - Caring Less

2010-03-16T21:51:00.000-04:00

I have this extremely annoying habit of correcting others grammar when chatting. I have to blame my momma. She corrected us, and has now passed the torch down to me. I shouldn’t say she has passed the torch, because she definitely still corrects me. Matthew hates (secretly appreciates) this habit! Depending on who I am speaking with determines whether I keep the corrections in my head, or blurt them out. I mean no harm. HELLO??? Have you seen how many commas and exclamation marks I use? I don’t try to pretend that I am an English scholar, but it is something that I cannot help. Speaking of…

Something has been bothering me for quite some time. I’ve mentioned it to many people when the subject arises, and sometimes in casual conversation. Have you heard the saying, “I could care less?” Of course you have! For the life of me, I can’t figure out what it means. It doesn’t make sense to me. I COULD CARE LESS??? Shouldn’t we say, “I couldn’t care less?” Right? If we could care less, the statement wouldn’t be affective. Anyway, that is my random rambling for today.

What do you think? Explain!

[Sidenote: Please do not send me grammatical corrections to this post. Thank you!]

her side of the story

2010-03-14T15:59:00.000-04:00

As we rounded the corner, headed to the church nursery this morning, it was as if Matthew and I could already sense something strange. The nursery worker was waiting at the door for us. She didn’t say “hello,” she didn’t say “Marli Claire, your parents are here,” and she definitely didn’t say, “Marli Claire was a joy to keep today.” Instead, she immediately picked MC up, handed her to me, and said (with fear, desperation, and exhaustion), “If I were you, I would get the book, The Strong-willed Child by James Dobson.” As I realized this lady was being serious, my smile began to diminish. She went on to say that MC had actually riled up all of the children in her class, and had to be calmed down. What would you say to this? I just smiled and said, “Well, we will see you all tonight!” As we are walking away, MC is just as sweet as can be, telling everyone we pass, “hello.” Matthew said that he glanced back and was almost 100% sure he saw that lady drop to her knees and begin singing, The Hallelujah Chorus. I’m quite sure this was exaggerated a bit, but needless to say, the worker was happy to see us walk away. We don’t know what happened in that room this morning, but this is MC’s side of the story:

Matthew & Jimmy - B.F.F.

2010-03-11T13:32:00.001-05:00

We are sitting on my mom’s sofa in Tifton; Matthew gets a huge smile on his face, and asks, “Where is Plains, Georgia?” Why? Matthew had Googled Jimmy Carter, and found out that he teaches Sunday School in Plains. “Seriously?” I asked, “You seriously want to go to Plains, Georgia for Sunday School?” Oh, was he ever serious! Matthew immediately got on the phone with some Secret Service friends of his to find out more information. They made some calls, and got special seating in the church. I, of course, didn’t want to venture off to Plains, so Matthew coerced my nephew, Austin, to go on his great adventure. Let me say, IT WAS AN ADVENTURE! [Sidenote: I told Matthew that they wouldn’t let him get a picture with The Carter’s, but if for some reason they did, I would go when we came back down to visit my family. This comment was followed by me rolling my eyes.] They set off around 7:15 AM on Sunday, got there around 9:00 AM. When they pulled up in the parking lot, a German Shepherd searched the car. The car wasn’t the only thing searched either! When they made it to the door, THEY were searched. Neither of them had their driver’s license, which made them look “suspicious.” Matthew drove to Plains illegally. While being searched, they found a pocket knife on Austin. This made them look even more “suspicious.” They made him head back to the car with it. They FINALLY got seated and were given the rules. As they looked around the church, they saw many armed men seated around. The former President, Jimmy Carter, then came in and taught the lesson. Afterwards, to my surprise, Matthew and Austin were able to get a picture with Mr. Carter and his beautiful wife Rosalynn. [Sidenote: I’m going to Plains, Georgia when we visit my family again.] Now, I do know there have been some unusual comments made by Mr. Carter recently, but I also know that he is almost 86 years old, and he was still The President of our great nation at one time. Although meeting the former president doesn’t excite me enough to miss an incredible meal at Tokyo Japanese Steakhouse, it was a great experience for Austin and Matthew.

2010 Collage - February

2010-03-09T18:48:00.001-05:00

Marli Claire has changed so much in one month, which convinces me even more that I should document what has been going on in February. Let’s see…she loves to point her finger and say “NO,” she likes to put her finger up to her mouth to say, “shhh,” and throws her arms up to say, “I don’t know.” When I tell her to go sit with her daddy so I can get ready, she says, “Daddy at work.” Matthew can be right in front of her, and she would say that he was at work. She has recently become more attached to her paci, her Ellie (pink elephant), and her blanket. She enjoys fake crying, which is actually very entertaining. She is the friendliest child I’ve ever seen! She MAKES everyone around tell her hello and goodbye before moving on to the next group of people. She thinks she knows everyone, and that everyone should know her. This makes going in public extremely difficult. She is very clumsy, never watches where she is going, and runs into everything. In the past few weeks, she has had two black eyes, a gash above her nose and eye, and bruises galore. This also makes life in public difficult. Having to explain to everyone she speaks to what happened to her is draining. She talks incessantly, gives the slobberiest and best kisses, and is so persistent (aka strong-willed). I have no idea where she gets all of this from! She is so much fun, and I enjoy every second that I have with her.

Random Rambling Tuesday - DDDIY

2010-03-02T15:32:00.000-05:00

(I ACTUALLY THINK I COULD HANDLE THIS DIY!)

As DIY (Do It Yourself) projects have grown in popularity, so has my interest in attempting them. I use the word “attempt”, simply because most of my projects haven’t come to completion. For some reason, I think I can do ANYTHING! I don’t mean “anything” in the sense of Phillipians 4:13 (I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.) I mean, stupid things!

For instance, Matthew and I used to live in The Lofts downtown. Picture a beautiful loft apartment, with 16 foot ceilings. Now picture me deciding one day after watching television that I wanted our kitchen table to be a different color. Not only did I want it a different color, I wanted it to be different color right then. So, without consulting my loving husband, I got an electric sander and went to work. I like to think of my projects as “surprises” for Matthew! I, of course, couldn’t get the kitchen table down eight flights of stairs, so I had to sand it in the loft. Did you know that when you sand something, dust flies? It really does! It even flies up to the top of those 16 foot ceilings I was describing to you earlier. As I get about half of the table sanded, I get really bored with it, so, I stopped. (Sidenote: My boredom is similar to my sister, Sherri, wanting to run the paintbrush up the wall once just so she can be the first one to see what it looks like, then the job becomes someone else’s.) If you were to lift the tablecloth today, you would see what used to be a gorgeous kitchen table. Do you think that I learned my lesson? NO! Just the other day, I decided again, that I could take on the task of painting the front door, shutters, and bottom bricks of the exterior of our house. If you were to drive by right now, you would notice that our front door looks AWESOME. As for the shutters and brick, they are still the original color.

Why do I do this? Why do I think that I can do a job that only people in that field should do? I have decided the title of this post will be DDDIY (Delecta Don’t Do It Yourself). I’m actually thinking of getting bracelets made. You know the ones like WWJD, only they will read DDDIY. Those letters will serve as a reminder of the kitchen table, and the exterior of our house.

Now, tell me, have you ever attempted a DIY? Give me details of your successes and your not so successful projects!

Random Rambling Tuesday

2010-02-23T20:08:00.000-05:00

How did I get here?

I am asked at least once a day how I became a hair stylist. Most people ask if I have always known I wanted to be a hairstylist. I usually just give a quick, boring answer, just to get back on the topic of them. They really don’t want to know the truth. The truth would scare them right out of my chair. The truth is that in 7th grade, on a Wednesday night while skipping youth group, I cut my first head of human hair. It all took place in the girl’s bathroom of our church’s family life center. A girl visiting our church that night brought a pair of scissors in her backpack, because her parents wouldn’t let her cut her hair. There is no wonder why her parents wouldn’t let her cut it, she had the most beautiful spiral curls all the way down her back. As most girls do, we all went to the bathroom together, in a pack. When we got down there, we decided it was time for the haircut. With each cut, her hair became more and more uneven, therefore, we had to cut more. By the end, her beautiful spiral curls were up to her chin, and resembled a Christmas tree. There were many tears shed that day.

Now, fast forward 16 years (16 years, seriously?), I have moved to Greenville South Carolina, and am a hairstylist at Wisteria Salon and Spa. Through the front door of Wisteria, walks that same spiral haired girl from my past. We immediately reconnect, and ask each other what we are doing hundreds of miles away from Tifton. I tell her my story, and she tells me hers. Although I wasn’t assigned to cut her hair that day, I thought it would give her parents a good laugh to call them and tell them I was. Maybe, not! I guess that Wednesday night, 16 years ago, was the start of my career.

If you knew me during my college years, you probably just shook your head at the many times I changed my major. Let’s see: Special Education, Music, Pre-Dentistry, Pre-Counseling, Biology, and somehow I ended up with a degree in Mathematics. A mathematician doing hair! How DID I get here? I guess I always knew deep down that I wanted to be a hairstylist, but I just took several detours along the way. It was a long, hard road, but here I am!

Tell me your story! How did YOU get here?

2010-02-22T20:22:00.000-05:00

I couldn't say it better than Trace Adkins in his song, You're Gonna Miss This! MC is getting in to EVERYTHING right now. Sometimes, I get so frustrated with her, but I need to remember that time is flying by. Before we know it, she will be leaving for college! We are going to miss these times. We need to hold tight to every moment!

Our Valentine's Extravaganza!

2010-02-15T12:09:00.000-05:00

I have no idea why some of the pictures are sideways!

Matthew, MC, and I had so much fun this Valentine's week. At the beginning of the week, Marli Claire received several gifts from Nunny, Austin, Andy, Sassy, Mark, Kay Kay, Bree, Ches, and Amanda, including the following:

We started our Valentine's Day festivities with a night out downtown. One of my guests from Wisteria gave us tickets to see Wicked at the Peace Center. (Unbelievable gift, I know!). Matthew and I ate at The Cazbah (one of my new favorites), then went to the show. On the way home, Matthew gave me this card:

In the inside, he wrote, "Delecta, you are my Bella." It also played Bella's lullaby. So hilarious and sweet! When we got home, we walked in to an extra clean house. Not only did my incredible in-laws keep MC for us, they cleaned our house! Could this get any better???

On Valentine's Day, we enjoyed a wonderful church service. On the way home, another card, including tickets to see a matinee movie. We chose Dear John, balled my eyes out, had a massive headache from trying not to cry, then headed back to church for another incredible service. Afterwards, we enjoyed what we named Brupper (definition: breakfast that was supposed to be brunch that ended up supper). I had fun coming up with ways to tacky up a good meal. I can't take all of the credit, my great friend Charis gave me the idea for the pink pancakes, and the greatest Sunday School teachers in the world (my high school SS teachers), Dwight and Jan, always made us this incredible Breakfast Pizza. Ok, Mr. Dwight didn't have much to do with the pizza! I made everything I could in the shape of hearts. Heart shaped butter, toast, breakfast pizza, and pink whole wheat pankcakes. Sidenote: This was Matthew's plate!

Marli Claire and I made Matthew his favorite cake, carrot cake for dessert. I had MC paint on edible rice paper with food coloring to add as the topper to Matthew's cake. She had a great time with her "color color."

THIS WAS SUPPOSED TO BE A HEART!

These are a couple of Marli Claire's crafts she made for her daddy this week. You can tell that she made the door hanger. It was difficult for me to allow her to stick all of it on there by herself. My OCD was in rare form that day. I LOVE order, color coordination, and symmetry which this had none! It was hers to make, and I didn't want to stifle her creativity. She did a great job, and her daddy LOVED it!

RED AND WHITE BEAN CANDLE SHE MADE AT SCHOOL

GLASS HEART SHE MADE AT CHICK-FIL-A TODDLER TIME

DOOR HANGER SHE MADE AT CHICK-FIL-A TODDLER TIME

Whew! What a day! Tell me about yours, what did you do? Simple or extravagant? Tell me!

Love is in the air!

2010-02-13T12:46:00.000-05:00

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!

Random Rambling Tuesday - Life

2010-02-09T18:00:00.000-05:00

I have recently been thinking about how my life has changed over the past few years. Even when I look at my "About Me" section of my Facebook profile, I wonder if I am on the wrong page. A few things that I apparently liked enough to add to my Facebook Interests at some point in my life include: designer jeans, great shoes, and tacky earrings. First of all, designer jeans, seriously? Now, I own one pair of jeans that fit and they are Mossimo from Target. This is actually a step up from the maternity jeans that I have secretly been wearing for the past two years. Secondly, I wear two pair of shoes, both black, that are falling apart. And third, I am good to walk out of the house with my clothes on, so earrings are hardly an accessory anymore.

Somehow, at some point, my life changed without me knowing. I think it may have had something to do with May 19, 2008, when MC was born. Things that I once thought were so important, just aren't important. Dreams that I once had for myself, are not even thought of. I guess priorities have finally shifted in to their appropriate place. I AM HAPPY! I am so happy with my simple life. Now, I am not saying that things couldn't be easier, or that I wouldn't LOVE nice things, but I am happy. For instance, my husband brought me home a "surprise" the other night. Keep in mind that we only buy necessities, so this is rare! It was so thoughtful, and just reminded me even more how much my life has changed for the better!

Oh yeah, you want to know what the surprise was, don't you? Well, here it is!

IZZE, one of my favorite drinks, and footies. I haven't been able to keep my feet warm lately, and I have this wierd thing about putting my feet into certain socks (definitely a future Random Rambling). What a thoughtful surprise, huh?

Tell me a little about how you have noticed your life change recently!

Video - Chatting with MC

2010-02-04T11:30:00.000-05:00

Can you imagine her as a teenager?

Random Rambling Tuesday - Weight Loss

2010-02-02T18:15:00.000-05:00

This was not my original post for today, but my life is consumed with weight loss, so I really couldn’t focus on anything else, literally. Losing weight stinks! If you look up losing weight in Delecta’s Thesaurus (yes, Sherri, I do know what a Thesaurus is!), this is what it would say:

losing weight – miserable, agonizing, torture, tragic, wretched, dreadful

Well, you get the point. So, here is my random rambling for the day. What are our reasons for being overweight? Mine?

Delecta’s Reason’s for being Overweight:

1. LOVE food
2. HATE exercise
3. Taking Prednisone (steroid) for the last 6 months
4. Having a baby (don’t ask how old she is!)
5. Because Monday never came.

So, the first two reasons are self explanatory. The third, well, I developed an allergy to hair color, which is really bad, when you are a HAIR STYLIST! (another day, another post) The fourth, I guess shouldn’t be an excuse anymore since she is almost two years old. I remember when she was 3 or 4 months old, and she looked like a newborn, how many great compliments I got for looking great for having a newborn. I also remember thinking (to myself of course); I wonder how long I can keep this up. I guess I figured that I could continue to tell people that I still was trying to lose baby weight, and pray they would not ask how old she was. So, on to reason five, I always said, and maybe you say this too, “I am going to get on track with my diet on Monday, so I better eat all I want for my last meals!” Well, Monday never came for me. For a while now, I’ve been trying to think of good reasons to just get FAT. I’ve tried for years to get Matthew fat, but it hasn’t worked yet, so having a fat husband isn’t going to work for me. I did find a pretty good reason yesterday. I was behind a truck with a bumper sticker that said:

“I'M FAT BECAUSE FAT PEOPLE ARE HARDER TO KIDNAP!"

Now, I did ponder explaining this one to Matthew. I personally believe this is a good answer. Anyway, Monday is here, and I have begun my journey. I joined Nutrition Solutions last week. It has been great, and I lost 7 pounds this week. Off to a good start and now since the whole world knows, you all can hold me accountable. If you see me in the McDonalds line, ask me what I am doing! My response may go something like this, “I, um, I, um, I’m just here getting MC a kid’s meal.” I AM LYING! I don’t allow her to eat that stuff. I have just realized how many ALL CAPS I have used in this post. It may be that I feel deprived of food, and it is causing me to speak in all caps.

So, I want to hear from you. Give me the best excuse you have ever heard for being overweight!

Goooo Dawgs!

2010-01-28T12:59:00.000-05:00

Most people know the story of Marli Claire's birth in Georgia. I remember the ride down to Tifton that weekend, like it was yesterday. At every mile marker, Matthew would say, "we are going to have this baby in Tifton, I just know it!". I assured him that would never happen! OOPS!

Since then, many many many jokes have been made about Marli Claire being a Georgia girl, none of which Matthew think are funny. My family LOVES to get Matthew riled up about it! Somehow it comes up every time we visit, how great it is that Tifton is Marli Claire's hometown. Now, I would like to point out that Tifton can't be too bad, I mean, Matthew's wonderful wife happens to be from there! Uncle Andy and Aunt Sassy bought Marli Claire a Georgia Bulldog cheerleading outfit not too long ago. I thought it was time to break it in. So, Matthew, this post is for you! Gooooo Dawgs!

Random Rambling Tuesday - Word Verification

2010-01-26T14:33:00.000-05:00

I know I've mentioned before, how much I DESPISE word verification, but it still rings true today. I'm sure they have a good purpose, but I really don't know what it is, and to be honest, I really don't care. I rarely pass on the first try. I just can't read them! Is it just me, or are they blurry. Why can't they make sense either, I mean, enHabE, is not a word! Maybe I would feel better about them if they just made some sort of sense. Heck, maybe I'm not making sense! When I see that word verification box, I feel like I felt when I sat down to take Dr. Crissey's Numerical Analysis test in college. Feelings of sweaty palms, lumps in my throat, and fear creep back to me. Ok, so I am exaggerating a bit, but I really dislike those crazy boxes!

Does anyone else have this challenge? I'd love to hear from you!

Has anyone seen my glasses?

2010-01-21T11:57:00.000-05:00

I decided that besides losing weight, my new year resolution will be to become more crafty. When I got the idea (from Ann Ashley's Blog) for this onesie, I couldn't wait to make it for Marli Claire. I had so much fun! She woke up on the wrong side of the crib this morning, so I couldn't get a good pic. Oh well, typical Marli Claire photo shoot anyway. Check out Ann Ashley's blog (on my blog list) for more great DIY ideas.

Random Rambling Tuesday - Addiction

2010-01-19T17:15:00.000-05:00

Last week was my first week of our new work schedule. I'm excited about the opportunity for more "life balance, " to spend more time with Matthew and Marli Claire. I said all of that to say this, I can't wait to blog more. I enjoy blogging so much! In the past, it was hard for me to find time to post. Now, I will be able to post every day if I wanted. Don't expect daily postings, because that will not happen. A month or so ago, I added a post entitled Random Ramblings. Don't think that just because I haven't posted any other random ramblings, that I haven't had them. I have been keeping a list when they come to me, which I am embarrassed to admit, is often. I plan to post Random Ramblings on Tuesdays. So, it's Tuesday, and here it goes.

When I added the Final Farewell post to my blog on September 13, 2009, I didn't know the papparazzi was going to show up at the premiere of New Moon and catch me with this:

Since I was tagged on Facebook, and many comments have been made about the photo, I thought it would be best to address the issue where it all began, on this blog. Now, I could make up some great story like, "I was just holding my friend Brittani's Gingerbread Latte for her while she was in the restroom, and I was just enjoying the sweet aroma of her "christmas in a cup." But, I won't lie, it will only make matters worse. To be honest, I simply had a temporary relapse. This is where the random rambling part comes in: I would like to throw this out there, it has been rumored that Starbucks adds something to their coffee that causes addiction. While I haven't researched this in my lab, I have to believe this is true. I just can't quit! I'm a Starbucks junkie! Also, I would like to add that we have just passed the holiday season. Everyone knows that holidays are the hardest time. I mean, who in their right mind can resist the Gingerbread Latte, or the Pumpkin Spice, or the Peppermint Mocha (which comes in white chocolate too), and let's please don't forget the new Caramel Brulee Latte that was so kindly added to Holiday Favorites this November. I know that I said I would quit, and I did for a short period, then Thanksgiving approached me and reminded me how much I adore the Fall Favorites section of the menu board. Don't fear, I do have a plan! People were so generous to contribute to my challenge at Christmas by giving the most wonderful gift of Starbucks giftcards. My plan is to use them up, and get back on the bandwagon.

So, what do you think, does Starbucks lure us in with an additive or is this just in my head? I'd love to hear your thoughts, so, share them!

2010 Collage - January

2010-01-17T23:26:00.000-05:00

I want to begin a monthly collage of pictures that reflect Marli Claire's personality at that time. She changes so much, so quickly, that I feel like I am missing memories. The monthly collages will help capture MC as she is that month. Right now, she is obsessed with dogs. She calls every dog, "bacca" (short for Chewbacca), which is our dog's name. She giggles constantly, runs everywhere she goes, loves the word "no," and gives more hugs in a day than we might give in a lifetime. She brings us so much joy!

Marli Claire's 2nd Christmas Video

2010-01-04T09:07:00.000-05:00

Welcoming Committee in Heaven?

2009-12-06T11:41:00.000-05:00

Sorry, it has been a while since I last blogged. Life has been crazy lately. Last Friday, my sweet friend Melissa went to live with Jesus. I am not going to say much, but I do want people to remember her the way I do. If you knew her, you know she is dancing at the feet of our Lord right now. I don't know what Heaven is like, but I've sure been thinking about it lately. If they have a welcoming committee in Heaven, I know she is the chairman. Honestly, she is the reason, Matthew and I are members at TaylorS First Baptist Church. She and Thomas were the only couple that reached out to us when we visited. We instantly became friends. Melissa was the most outgoing person, I have ever met. She also has the most amazing parents in the world. I have posted in the past how much her sweet parents mean to us, and it remains true today. They will always be our dear friends. I know I said that I wasn't going to say much, and a page later, I still write. I hope and pray that people remember Melissa as the loud, passionate, loving, caring, Mexican food eating, dancing queen that I will remember her as. We loved her very much!

Crazy Cowgirl!

2009-11-01T12:51:00.000-05:00

Random Post

2009-10-27T15:12:00.000-04:00

I don't even know where to start! I'm so embarrased that I haven't blogged in 20 days. Things have been so crazy at work, which is great! When I get home, I am so exhausted, yada yada yada. So, I am blogging now, and that's all that matters. We all have been doing well. Matthew is busy with work, so am I, and Marli Claire is growing like a weed. It is hard to believe that she is 17 months old. She is running (literally) everywhere, and her vocabulary grows by the minute. Her sassiness has increased tremendously, landing her in a lot of trouble. I really don't know where she gets it from, ok, I do, but I'm almost 30 so I can be sassy. She has been pointing her finger at me, and saying, "no, mam!" How did my sweet innocent child change drastically overnight? Well, I will be posting pictures soon of our latest adventures. So, stay tuned!

This picture has absolutely NOTHING to do with this blog post, but I couldn't wait any longer!

I saw this hanging on the wall in Staples one day. I had to snap a shot. Dr. Epting? Is that you? I thought to myself, "Dr. Epting is pulling out all of the stops to help NGU!" Modeling for Staples though? Whoever this man is, I hope you know you have an incredible twin! What do you think?

Happy Clergy Appreciation Month

2009-10-07T23:00:00.000-04:00

Today is a sad day for the three of us (well, two of us, MC doesn't understand). Our pastor resigned from the church to begin a new journey with the North American Mission Board. Dr. Page is not only a pastor to us, he is our friend. He is such a wise man, and NAMB will be blessed to have him become part of their staff.

I will never forget the first Sunday that Matthew and I visited TFBC together, we were trying to sneak out of the side door so we didn't have to talk or shake hands with pastor. (sad, but true). He sought us out as we were sneaking, to introduce himself to us, then called us that week to get to know us better. What a pastor! If you think he is awesome, you should meet his incredible wife. (talk about "better half").

Anyway, on to explain the post title, Happy Clergy Appreciation Month. I just found out that October is the National Clergy Appreciation Month. I know this isn't a holiday that we bring out cake and party hats, but it is the time set aside to let your pastor know how much you appreciate him. Dr. Page, you mean so much to us! Thank you for leading our church with passion. We will miss your teaching, your personality, and oddly enough, we will miss you throwing tortilla chips at us at the mexican restaurant. You will be greatly missed by all, and you will always be Marli Claire's "Papa Page." We love you and Mrs. Dayle very much!

Class of 2026

2009-10-04T11:38:00.001-04:00

When I look at Marli Claire, it is crazy to think that she wont love the Lord, or that she will one day walk away from the church. Our church has begun a new ministry called Growing Graduates. This is a partnership between parents and the church to bring up our children to be passionately devoted followers of Christ. It is scary to know that 70% of 18-22 year olds leave the church and their faith. Through Growing Graduates, we will be able to prepare our children for the generation to come. Matthew and I promise to do our part as MC's parents to teach her how to have a heart of a warrior, mind of a scholar, hands of a hero, and feet of an ambassador. For more information on how you can do the same, visit http://www.growinggraduates.com/.

This pic is MC showing off her print that she received at church today. This is what it says:

CLASS OF 2026

AND WE PRAY THIS IN ORDER THAT YOU MAY LIVE A LIFE WORTHY OF THE LORD AND MAY PLEASE HIM IN EVERY WAY: BEARING FRUIT IN EVERY GOOD WORK, GROWING IN THE KNOWLEDGE OF GOD. COLOSSIANS 1:10

Marli Claire & Eli

2009-09-27T11:08:00.001-04:00

We FINALLY got together with our friends Wesley, Candy, and Eli. We had a great time, and Marli LOVED Candy. It is so great to have awesome friends!

MARLI CLAIRE AND ELI MEETING FOR THE FIRST TIME

CUTE LITTLE COUPLE

MARLI AND "AUNT CANDY"

SWEET MARLI CLAIRE

Random Ramblings 1

2009-09-24T20:55:00.000-04:00

I have random thoughts everyday, some I think about more frequently than others. Honestly, I keep them to myself because they are outrageous! Surely others have these thoughts too. It can't just be me. Right?

I said all of that to say this, I think I will start sharing some of them. (Right now, my sister Sherri is saying, "NO NO, please NO!") But, I'm gonna! I am going to entitle each of them Random Ramblings. I will post them when they come to me.

For instance, last week, one of my guests (Aveda word for client) and I were talking about cleaning our ears out. No, this is not usual conversation in the salon, but that isn't the point here. I have thought about it everyday since. I LOVE CLEANING MY EARS!!! Now, for those of you who are thinking at this very moment of posting a comment about the harm in cleaning your ears out with Q-tips, DON'T! I already know. SIDE NOTE: I actually had to have my right ear cleaned out by a doctor my senior year of high school because of using Q-tips. I had temporarily lost the hearing in my right ear. I will spare you the details, but I must say that It was well worth it. There is just something about walking in to the bathroom, taking the top off of the jar, pulling out that beautiful white cotton tip, and cleaning my ear. I'm embarrassed to admit, that it happens to be one of the highlights of my day. Sad I know! I know that I have a simple life when the highlights of my day are:

1. Spending time with my husband AT HOME!
2. Loving on my beautiful little girl.
3. Listening to online sermons on my lunch break!
4. Chatting with my mom on the way home from work. (and cracking up with my bro-in-law Andy over Blackberry Messenger)
5. Reaching in the fridge for a ice cold can of Coca-Cola Classic.
6. Cleaning my ears with Q-tips!

What in the world has happenned to me? I don't know, but I love it! Back to the Q-tips! Why does it feel so good? Why am I addicted? I want to know, are you addicted too?

An Unexpected Gift

2009-09-21T20:34:00.000-04:00

TRUE STORY! Matthew’s birthday was September 9th. You know, when you want to buy your spouse something for his birthday, it feels weird using the debit card to buy it, right? If your husband is like mine, he would know what he got anyway, because he checks the online banking about 50 times a day. SIDE NOTE: money is not going to magically appear in the account just because you check it online! Anyway, that is all beside the point. I always hide my cash tips in the back of my wallet in a zipper pocket (probably not anymore, because Matthew will now know). I use the cash tips to buy something fun, most of the time for Marli. So, I had been saving for Matthew’s birthday so that I didn’t have to use the debit card. I was able to get MC’s pictures made and still have money left over to buy the Ray-Ban Aviator sunglasses that he has been wanting (thanks to my mom). I was excited because I led him to believe that I didn’t get him anything due to lack of funds. I decided to just get a gift card for him from The Sunglass Hut so that he could choose the pair he wanted. They of course all look the exact same to me. Again, beside the point. Yesterday, we went to the mall for Matthew’s annual birthday trip with his grandmother, and he finally got his sunglasses. I definitely told him that he looks better than Brad Pitt in his, and he does. When he took his grandmother home, she went to the back of the house and returned holding a case in her hand. She told him that she remembered her husband (Matthew’s grandfather) owning a pair of Ray-Ban glasses too. The glasses look IDENTICAL to the ones he just bought, and the case hasn’t changed either. His grandfather had taken such good care of them, that it looked like they had never been worn. Matthew lost his grandfather not too long before he and I started dating. They had an incredible relationship, and he misses him very much. The two of them must have been more alike than I even knew. What a special pair of aviators! Needless to say, we are headed back to Sunglass Hut to return the overpriced glasses that we bought yesterday.

Final Farewell

2009-09-13T10:55:00.000-04:00

KISSING MY LAST STARBUCKS COFFEE GOODBYE

Dear Starbucks Grande Skinny Vanilla Latte (extra hot),

The time has come for me to say, "goodbye.". We've been through a lot together. You've been a crutch for me to lean on in times of need. You've been the one to keep me awake when driving on long road trips, when everyone else fell asleep. You've helped me through the countless yo-yo dieting days. I could give you hundreds of meaningless quotes, such as, "It's not you, it me." Please know that there is one and only one reason for this sudden break-up, THE BUDGET. If you are looking for someone to blame, don't blame yourself, blame my friend and co-worker, Sara Moore for pointing out how much $ I have spent at your fine establishment over the last month. Since your recent breakup with Sara, she and her husband were able to become first time homeowners. I'm just saying! If needed, I can break it down, mathematically, for you:

1 cup = apprx $5
x 7 days = $35/wk
x 4 wks = $ 140/month (may I point out that this is more that our monthly Duke Energy Bill)
x 12 months = $1,820/yr

I will stop there knowing that it is too painful for you to bear more. I will always have a very special place in my heart for you. Thank you for being there for me. Although we can no longer see each other, I hope we can still be friends. It is best this way. I simply want MC to be able to go to college one day. You understand, don't you? If you love me, you will let me go. So, this is it, our final goodbye. It's more difficult than I ever imagined. Farewell my Grande Skinny Vanilla Latte Extra Hot. You will be greatly missed!

Sincerely,

Delecta

Feliz cumpleaños, papá!

2009-09-09T08:41:00.000-04:00

Today is Matthew's birthday, so we surprised him with a book of pics of Marli Claire. I had them printed in wallet size and made a cover for him to keep in his wallet that says, "You know you're a dad when pictures of your daughter take the place of your money." Is this not true? While my mom was visiting this weekend, we snuck away and had these made. Matthew was so surprised! I know it won't be long before it is highly inappropriate for Marli to be shirtless, so we decided to have one more shot at the pettiskirt pics. Happy Birthday Matthew!

P.S. - If you know MC, then you know that we have at least one "meltdown" per photo shoot. I had to add those too.

UPSIDE DOWN MONKEY

SHOULD I GO AHEAD WITH THE MELTDOWN?

YES, I THINK I WILL START!

IT'S GETTING GOOD!

ALL OUT MELTDOWN

OK, I THINK THAT I'M OVER IT NOW!

Please Pray!

2009-09-08T12:18:00.000-04:00

My sister went to the doctor this morning, and was diagnosed with the H1 N1 aka Swine Flu. She is extremely sick. Please pray for her.

MC aka "gangsta"

2009-09-03T20:49:00.000-04:00

Marli Claire LOVES music, almost as much as I do. She has more rhythm than any 16 month old I have ever seen. We listen to LECRAE, a christian rapper, who is truly talented. His lyrics are awesome! I promise that I didn't teach her this head bob!

It's a jungle out there!

2009-08-26T08:30:00.000-04:00

Matthew and I took MC to the Greenville Zoo on Monday. I didn't know if she would even notice the animals or not. She said, "whoa," and "oooo," everytime she saw an animal move. She especially loved the orangutan and the loud birds.

I haven't made a video in a while, so I decided to arrange the pics from the zoo in video form. Hope you enjoy!

***Matthew did mention that one of the pics that I labeled as a gorilla is not a gorilla, it is an orangutan. What in the world is the difference? I don't know!***

The Crayola Surprise

2009-08-24T13:03:00.000-04:00

Marli Claire loves to color, but has a hard time keeping her grip on crayons. I found easy-to-hold baby crayons at Target, and decided to surprise MC with them today.

SUPER EXCITED!

THANKFULLY, THEY ARE NON-TOXIC

DROPPING THE CRAYONS UNDER THE TABLE ON "ACCIDENT."

THIS IS MORE FUN THAN COLORING! "UH-OH!"

THE MASTERPIECE

The Gratitude Card

2009-08-17T19:30:00.000-04:00

I have blogged about how awesome our salon is in the past, but they continue to amaze me every day. Two weeks ago, each employee received a "gratitude card" to give to someone who goes above and beyond in service. The "gratitude card" is a $50 giftcard to Wisteria that can be used for any salon service, spa service, or for retail. When I received the card, I started praying that God would lay someone on my heart that needed that card. I didn't want to give it out just to give it out. Last week, I took Marli to the doctor for a check, and it hit me, I knew at that moment who needed the card. Marli's pediatrician is awesome, and her nurse, is just as great. She has been so good to us, and just loves Marli. She goes above and beyond what is expected of a nurse. Recently, her husband was diagnosed with cancer. She has been working full-time, and taking care of her husband and family. When I saw her, I knew that she was in need of relaxation. I hope that she will leave Wisteria feeling relaxed and refreshed. Please pray for Diane, her husband, and thier family as they continue to fight against his cancer.