Confessions

Who else has been INSANELY busy during the Thanksgiving Holiday and with the Christmas season underway!?!

I have almost addressed all our Christmas cards and I just need to decorate the outside of our home.

We made our big announcement.....We have a new member of the family!!!

Meet Rocco (Brandon calls him Roc Roc)

To be completely honest, I don't even like animals that much (don't judge me...I'm being honest! These are my confessions). But I knew I would bond with him and I feel every kid deserves a pet. He is great and really tiny. He is a Yorkie and will be at max 5 lbs. I bought him some doggy cologne and he has some clothes. Fun little guy!

Patrick and I got to enjoy a fun adult night at his cousin's wedding this past weekend. It was fabulous and the band was AMAZING!!!!!!! A band will make or break a wedding. Our band was called U-Neek Flavur and they were INCREDIBLE. It is what I remember most about our wedding.

It was quite special to have a night away from all the kids and dance the night away with my love. Patrick loves me way more than I deserve!

But I know what everyone needs to stop loving....those colorful, patterned leggings with the big shirt over it! Haley, who I consider one of my most fashionable friends, agrees this has got to STOP! I think it is a big thing for Rock Hill ladies. Well, back in my day I was voted best dressed in high school so I think that gives me some fashion credit and I say make it stop. I know it is just a trend that will eventually fade and I can't jump on the bandwagon. Sorry to those of you who love it. Our differences make the world go round.

Lastly, I will confess that we have about 4 opportunities to be in our local parade this Friday night and declined them all. We couldn't decide so we are doing what we love (We are not huge fans of parades!!!). We are packing up early to head to our family Farm Friday and riding 4-wheelers, the mule, making a big fire, roasting marshmallows, sipping wine/whiskey, and enjoying family time. I would definitely rather do that than most things. It is cuddle weather that makes you want to enjoy those you love the most.

Hope everyone has a great weekend!

Love xo,

Dana

I be up in the gym just workin' on my fitness. -Fergie

Happy Cyber Monday folks! Anybody do any Black Friday shopping or have done some shopping this morning for Cyber Monday? I picked up a few presents. Can't believe December will be here Thursday!! Who ate obnoxiously for Thanksgiving?? I am raising my hand. Thanksgiving day I ate a total of 3 pieces of pie. OWNING IT, y'all. I excused it since we ran the Turkey Trot (5 miles) here in in Austin Thanksgiving morning. SO many people but it was really cool running downtown.

I have recently started a new workout routine and that is with Camp Gladiator here in Austin. I was a bit skeptical at first and kept turning down my friend to go with her. I finally went one Saturday morning and was really impressed with the workouts. First, they are outside which I LOVE. Second, they are all over the city. Third, it is a group setting and you get to meet others ranging in all different fitness levels. Currently they are in Texas, Colorado, Florida, Louisiana, and North Carolina. For the workouts, all you need is a mat, set of weights, and a water bottle. I have been going in the mornings & evenings a few times. I will tell you a 4:50am alarm is NOT fun but when your workout is done by 6:30am...that feels awesome. We all have the same 24hrs & we are ALL busy. #NoExcuses

We always start out with a good warm up which when working out by myself I am HORRIBLE about. Each week varies on what you are doing. Last week was endurance and agility (think speed work, quick feet, quick changes in direction....almost felt like a football camp but it was FUN). This week is HIIT (High Intensity Interval Training). I can tell you that this workout group has made me do more burpees & push ups that I would ever care to do butttttt it hurts so good as I like to say.  I am not good when it comes to weight training because I don't know what I am doing half the time but this is a great way to get those weights in. I can do cardio on my own anytime.

Speaking of cardio (running), I am considering another half in January. I have the itch and it gives me such an adrenaline rush...just ask my husband, Rachel, or Alison....I BAWLED across the finish line for my first half. The emotions will take over, and you absolutely cannot control them. Maybe it was because it was my first?? Who cares! But boy do you feel good!

I also figured I would share some of my favorite workout clothes. One thing I know is that if I do not feel comfortable & unrestricted in my work out clothes then there is probably a 90% chance I will NOT work out. I swear by the Champion C9 high rise workout legging & capri. They come up high...like belly button high. But if I am going to be running around, doing burpees, or lifting my arms over my head, I want everything covered & sucked in. They are by far my FAVE pants. And then in the summer, Nike Tempos are my go to!!

And one last thing, our workout leader told me about this app called WaterMinder. If you have issues with getting your water intake in during the day...download it. It's $1.99. You add in all your criteria and it calculates how much you should be drinking. And it sends reminders to drink water if it has been awhile. 

Get active y'all! November & December are the worst months for caloric intake. Walk around your neighborhood, go up and down the stairs several of times to work up a sweat, jog, walk the dog, whatever feels comfortable. As Elle Woods once said, "Exercise gives you endorphins. Endorphins make you happy."

Have a great week, y'all!!

xoxo,
Haley

The Derma Roller

Happy Monday! Have any of y'all heard of a derma roller? It apparently has been around for a little while. The idea behind the derma roller is that it is a handheld micro-needling device that helps with the stimulation of collagen growth. It is a little roller with tiny needles that you roll across a clean & sterilized face. It is important you are sterilizing your face and your roller (especially your roller afterwards) as it is making itty bitty holes in your skin and if it's not clean...girlfriend you WILL get an infection.

I tried it for the first time Saturday night. It really didn't hurt but afterwards when I put on my vitamin C serum, it was a bit uncomfortable. On Sunday morning when I got up, it felt okay. Honestly, it felt like my skin was tight like I had a sunburn but my skin felt VERY soft. Once you micro-needle and you add your serum/moisturizer, it allows for better penetration into your skin.

It also helps with any acne, scars, or fine lines you may have. The needles come in varying sizes. I started with a 0.25mm. If you roll different areas of your body, you can use bigger needles on the roller but it is important to start out small, especially for delicate skin on the face. I am anxious to see the effects it has on my face. Maybe if I'm brave I'll post before & afters sans make up? Mayyyybe.

I purchased mine on Amazon. I love that place; it has everything. Have any of you used a derma roller? I think R&F has one out now. Do you think I'm crazy? I probably am. Pain is beauty. But really it's not that bad!!

Hope y'all have a fabulous week!!

xoxo,
Haley

Turkey w/ a Side of Mistletoe

We were hanging around the house most of the day getting ready for the week (and we didn't get home until super late from the Wake Forest vs. Clemson Game) and decided......tis the season to be jolly!!

So once we start...we are ALL in!!

I love pulling out all of our ornaments and some are so sentimental while others are simply cute and make me smile.

I won't put anything up outside until next Sunday but I'm excited to sit tonight with some vino and enjoy the holiday vibes.

We are also rockin and rollin on the potty training front!! Brandon turned 2 this month and he has had a few accidents (obviously!!!) but he tries to tell us and we are still putting him in underwear at night!

Hoping he can knock this out when he is out of school for Christmas break!

Happy Thanksmas!!!

Sugars,
D

Life update, the holidays and Disney!

I'm BAACCCKKKKK!!!!! Hi everyone! I know what everyone is asking themselves..."Where has she been?" "Is she alive?" haha I am sorry for my absence but I am BACK to give life updates, my love for Disney and of course my absolute FAVORITE time of year...Christmas!

So let's start with how crazy and hectic October was....actually it's a bit of a blur so I can't tell you much except it included football, work, birthday parties, family, traveling, sick boys, more work, halloween chaos and some more football in there somewhere. The playoffs begin this week so I'm starting to see the light at the end of the tunnel! I have A LOT of time off of work coming up for the holiday's so I'm looking forward to having some much needed down time. I also tried to give Facebook up for a week after all the election madness...I made it about 2 days :)

We are hosting Thanksgiving at my house this year. (My mom is having knee surgery so will be out of commission) I'm trying to not stress about it too much...won't be a huge crowd or anything and let's face it...I LOVE hosting get-togethers at my house. Now, I love Christmas as much as the next person but I fail to understand the need/want of people to skip over Thanksgiving? Why...just why? I LOVE it...the food, the weather, family, the parade...and our family tradition--Turkey Chowder :) YUM. But...on Black Friday you better believe Fall is out and Christmas is IN!

We didn't get a chance to do a lot of the fun Fall things around town so we're going to try to do it all for Christmas. For us that means...the Christmas lights at the county park, live nativity, Christmas parades, etc. What is it about Christmas in the Lowcountry? You just can't beat it...whether it's the cool weather, oyster roasts or bonfires it will always remain one of my favorite times of year. This year, one of the things I am most excited about spending Christmas with my 2 adorable nieces on their first Christmas! EEkkk...cuteness overload!

Like any other warm blooded American I too LOVE Disney movies...the classics and get all giddy and excited when they come on TV. My kids especially love all the Disney songs and we play them constantly and for those of you who know me well probably know the favorite in our household....yes..."The Lion King". I am SUPER excited about the new "Beauty and the Beast" coming out in March...have you seen the trailer? It looks so good :)

Hope everyone has an awesome Thanksgiving and has fun decorating for Christmas!

Parties...and rushing Christmas.

Happy Monday everyone!! Has everyone recovered from the hysteria that was the elections? I had to stay off Facebook for the rest of the week just because it was too much. #Everyonehasopinions #Everyoneisapoliticalinsider

This week starts the busyness of the holiday season. I am a member of the Junior League of Austin and we put on "A Christmas Affair" every year. It is a HUGE holiday market and it does not disappoint. Seriously, they have bars placed through out so you can purchase a drink and shop. GENIUS on both ends. I mean, a mimosa in one hand and a credit card in the other....swipes easier than hot knife through butter. Sorry Brian!

They also have parties throughout the week. Brian and I are headed to the Date Night party on Friday night which is cocktail attire with a large silent auction, drinks, food, live band and a little shopping. Saturday I will do my part and volunteer with tickets. And maybe a little more shopping afterwards.

I can't believe Thanksgiving is NEXT WEEK! We are doing Thanksgiving with our friends and I am super excited! The fooooooood!!!!! But y'all.....every year it goes by quicker and quicker and I feel like people are rushing passed Thanksgiving to hurry up and get to Christmas. NO MA'AM! Brian has been listening to Christmas music and has asked to put up our tree. Music, fine. In small doses. (If you are friends with me on Snapchat then you will have seen B last night washing dishes and listening to Christmas music. He just kills me. The man is Christmas obsessed.) Tree? NO! That thing doesn't go up until Black Friday. My rule. Y'all, they had a girl singing Christmas carols in my H-E-B (for all you East Coasters, that's our grocery store) on Saturday. I think my mouth dropped to the floor. Oh well. Don't get me wrong, I love Christmas. REALLY love it. But I don't want to rush the other holidays away.

After Thanksgiving, I have some volunteer work with the League once again in our big event, Coats for Kids. Every year we gather/buy coats to distribute to those who need them. Get this....we give out over 35,000 COATS!!!!! This year I get to volunteer on distribution day which means I get to see all those sweet faces & help pick out their new winter coat. I CANNOT WAIT!!!! I know I'll have stories to share.

We are still giving out our Snack Packs and I still feel SO good getting to hand them out. It totally makes my day when I see someone & get to say "Hey! Here you go!!!" Now that it isn't so hot out, Brian and I each have a box of pre-packed snack packs so we can hand them out at a moment's notice. I surely didn't want my friends drinking HOT water so I am so happy it has cooled down! We were having to bring a few here and there in the car whenever we would leave and a lot of times we didn't see anyone because it was literally too hot for them to be out there. We are starting to see them more and more now.

That's it on my end. I hope everyone is ready for the holidays. Do you have your tree up? Or do you wait? What are your holiday traditions? What are your Thanksgiving must haves?! Do you black Friday shop?

xoxo,
Haley

Book Review & A Big Announcement

I love when I turn on my music to write my weekly blog. Yeah boy ; )

This week I got my book in the mail, "War Room." And like normal, I got invested and finished it in a few days.

I wouldn't say I'm a very religious person. I do my best to go to church each Sunday and stay involved in my church as well as give back to others. However, I've never felt I could completely relate to some ladies I've been around in some bible studies. I guess because I'm a little more spicy than sweet, haha! However, I never feel intimidated to share my religious journey or my thoughts about my faith because at the end of the day it is my faith and my relationship with God that I'm responsible for myself.

One of my dear friends is my Pastor's wife. She is one of the most amazing women I've ever met and not because she is a pastor's wife. She and I were discussing something the other day about being able to listen to other sermons and leaders and be able to form our own opinion of what we believe and what we are taking from it. I listen to other church's online. I won't share which ones but sometimes I am curious about other churches and definitely those with large masses. I think anyone who doesn't visit, study, or keep an open heart is missing out on the progression of their faith and misinformed that God only recognizes certain denominations, a certain path, or one type of Christian. It is extremely important to find an inviting and nurturing place of worship for YOUR family, though.

I've had quite the spiritual journey in different denominations and I took a lot of knowledge from each. I know my faith is still changing every day and it really is in God's hands. The person who is the most sure of everything is often the most ignorant.

War Room was a good read. I wouldn't say it was life changing to me. It was about a struggling marriage with the daily challenges of busy jobs, a child, and a large home. I definitely don't pray as I should. I have every intention but I don't spend the time I need to do that. The other day I was driving and something was really tugging at my heart. I spoke aloud in my car to God and that same day I received some closure. I know that was God. I know I need to do that more and God wants me to open up to him even though he knows my every thought.

This book spoke a lot about the power of prayer and praying for your family and even praying for your enemy. There is a movie made about this book and I'm looking forward to watching it with my book study group and also hearing their thoughts.

After all this election madness, I think we could all use some quiet time with our Savior.

But I probably should be a little kinder and not so spicy on my parent's answering machine!!! HA HA! I always leave them funny messages because they NEVER answer the phone. I left one today and my mom said DANA!!!! The painters were here and heard you! HA! Well, maybe I made them laugh and maybe they should answer the phone!

Anyways, the P-Hams have a big announcement coming soon! So stay tuned over the next few weeks!!

(Happy Birthday to Brandon!!!)

Hugs & Kisses,
Dana

The end is near...

Both literally and figuratively some might think. I know I can say I am READY for election to be OVER. I have had enough. I voted early and honestly, I don't want to see anymore. Tomorrow is a HUGE day for our country no matter the outcome. I hope all of y'all get out and vote. It's our civic duty. And to make this lighthearted, I've rounded up some election funnies. This is no way depicts who I am voting for or what my beliefs are. Just comedic relief folks so please...take it with a grain of salt. Oh, and make sure you have your wine or beer of choice to start drinking tomorrow night when the polls close.

via GIPHY

Happy Monday y'all! 

xoxo,
Haley

5 Things

Okay we survived Halloween! It was fun and my spider family nailed it, HA! Cecilia is officially in charge each year and I will do what I do to spice it up. Boys just stand there...this is our show!

1. I'm loving that the Holidays are right around the corner. Can I just say that having a big family makes it SO much more fun! We do all the things. Whatever the things are...we do them and try to do them all. I kind of drive myself crazy but I'm the mom and deep down I live for it. So when can I decorate for Christmas?? (Plus, I have a cute Christmas card idea ; )

2. I had my book club meeting last night and I recommend you check out the book "For the Love" by Jen Hatmaker and if you have a book to recommend for a church women's group then leave me a message in the comments.

One of my favorite quotes from her book was "I say the couple that embarrasses their children together has a 100% chance of making it." The other day, Patrick and I totally messed with the kids with the popularized "We ate all your Halloween candy scenario." I've seen some other facebook friends do it too since then. It is harmless fun but I think that is what I love most about our little family. We have fun and we do what we want and we love to just spend time together. Patrick and I definitely see the type of parents we DON'T want to be so it helps us to be who want to be as parents in the long run. I think those who overact and tend to put this endless pressure on parenting end up missing out on the beauty of it all.

Another big thing we discussed last night was being in the moment. This is huge. I am guilty of not being in the moment with my kids or in situations because I'm thinking of my to do list. However, I do try to make every effort to be present as much as I can in whatever I'm doing at that moment. If you don't, you miss out on a lot and you aren't truly living and never doing anything 100%!

I had the absolute best time with the ladies. It really is good for my soul. We laughed all night about our quirks and marriages and our crazy kiddos. I even shared that I wear two men's deodorants every day because I can't stand to smell and I felt that after kids my hormones made it horrible to use any women's deodorants. (Legit I went to a doctor, I got prescription, I bought organic, I would by the MOST expensive ones.) Needless to say, I'M NOT the only woman with this issue and apparently wearing Old Spice Men's deodorant is what the young girls are doing. (What!!!! I'm in the know and I didn't know!!) So I add that with my Men's Gillette Gel. I do what I do.

I will formulate this and sell it. All the cool girls are doing it!

I love women who KEEPS IT REAL!

3. I'm all into make-up and skin-care. This week, I am digging the MicroPeel Facial. OMG! Life changing! I will definitely be getting more of those! You only get one face ladies!!! Plus, I had to get all this off my face...whoa!

4. I met with my trainer this morning. SO GOOD! My legs are so heavy I can barely walk. I think I impressed him so totes to me. I do want to go get new workout clothes. I can never have enough!!!

5. Million Dollar Spray Tan out of Charlotte came to my house this week and sprayed me. A spray tan is a game changer. I love a spray tan about 3 days after. It always looks so good and you have a nice glow! I WISH I could get them more!!

Well that is all for this week!! Bring it on weekend!!!!!

xoxo,

Dana

October was a Whirlwind

And just like that another month has flown by! At the end of September I found out I was being forced to go to Tampa for three weeks of training. I was extremely upset and frantic and had no idea how I could come up with a big enough milk supply, find clothes to wear since I have been working from home for 3 months, and trust Daniel to take care of SG all on his own.

October 3rd was Stella Grace's first and last day at daycare. We had a huge welcome from the lady working at the front and she was extremely helpful taking us back to the classroom and putting everything in its place. The teacher on the other hand was not very happy at all. We placed SG in a bean bag beside the other little girl, took a picture, gave her a big kiss and then headed to our cars. As soon as we step out into the parking lot I look at Daniel and he is a ball of emotions. He immediately regretted not going to look at daycare facilities with me. He said "if you are good I am good" and I am thinking "Why am I not crying?" & "Am I bad Mom?". I told him that it wasn't forever it was just until we came off of the waiting list somewhere else and maybe he felt that way because it was his first time ever seeing the place and I have been preparing for this morning since the day we brought her home from the hospital. About 10 minutes later, Daniel received a call from his friend Sean at church and he said, " Misty and I saw your picture on FB and just wanted to let you know that Misty would love to watch SG everyday. No pressure just wanted to offer." Of course he called me immediately and we discussed it and she started at Misty's house the next day. She is the one of the biggest reasons why the next three weeks I was not a nervous wreck.

October 5th at 4:00am I leave the house and head to Tampa for 3 days. At this point I have just enough milk to get through...SUCCESS! Training in Tampa went really well and I met the three new team members and I am so excited to split up some of the workload. Flew home for the weekend and then back out to Tampa on Monday morning. This was the big week of training and outings with the team. The week went really well until I walk into the airport Thursday night and realize I had left all of my milk in the freezer at work. I called my manager in a panic to see if she could drive it to the airport but she had already left the office. I didn't have enough time to Uber there and back to the airport. My manager called the office to see if anyone could bring it to me but no luck. When she called me back I could think clearly and I assured her NOT to mail it to me the next day and I would just bring it home the following week. The next week I fly back to Tampa to take all of my certification tests and complete my presentations and passed with flying colors. Then hopped on a flight back home for good...or so I thought.


Daniel and I decided to take a daytrip to Linville Falls to see all of the fall leaves and take Stella Grace on her very first hike. The park was packed and didn't really give us the chance to break away and enjoy the serenity of the woods so we hiked back down and drove around taking in the sights. We ate dinner at American Honor Ale House in Hickory. Their pumpkin beer was fantastic but everything else was too watered down. I had their hot chicken sandwich which was phenomenal. SG ate her first table food, Mac & Cheese. She loved every little bite! The last week of October I ended up spending two days in Charleston visiting clients. Besides making the clients happy the best part of the trip was eating dinner with my best friend, Emily Monsch, and hearing all about her travels while enjoying a delicious meal at Sermet on James Island. If you are familiar with JI this restaurant used to be named Heart. They are expanding the patio and creating an outdoor bar. I had mussels with a curry and garlic sauce which was fabulous and a house salad with yellow tomatoes (I usually despise tomatoes) and a yummy dressing. Then I went back to her house on Johns Island and got a tour of her beautiful new home.  I am really looking forward to going back and spending a weekend with her and Eric.

To finish off the month, Daniel and I had LifeGroup on Friday night at the Duzans. Trunk or Treat on Saturday at our church. We created a sea themed trunk based on Finding Nemo. Stella Grace was our inspiration as the baby seahorse. I was Dory and Daniel was Bruce the Shark. Then a Pumpkin Carving & Painting event for our apartment. Lastly, Stella Grace had her 6 month check up and she is 27.5 inches tall and 17lbs 12.5 oz. Her height puts her in the 92th percentile and weight has dropped down to 74th percentile. She had all of her immunizations and flu shot and we decided to stay in since she wasn't feeling too good. There is always next year for trick or treating :)

Now that the month is over ALL I can say is that I am so thankful to have such an amazing & supportive husband. He did a great job taking care of Stella Grace almost completely on his own. Waking up early to get her ready and take her and too and from Misty's house. Starting a new job and going through training as well. We had a rough month but we made it through and now we are both enjoying our jobs a lot more. We also have an amazing support system and we are so grateful that they are willing to watch SG and pray for us through this crazy thing...we call LIFE!