Wednesday, December 28, 2011

Brady Lately.

Here are few pictures of what Brady J has been up to & into lately.
This little personality is becoming quite large.
He's all boy
From eating mulch
to throwing toys in the toilet.
He is my little dream come true. 

He'll hate this at sixteen, when I show this around!

But, he always watches out for his mama. 

He's so excited about his two new teeth, that he tries to show them the best he can.

He even got a new truck for Christmas. 
Meet Tow-Mater.


He loves oranges, but don't take them away...
He'll show another strong personality trait.

He is my little man. 
He grabs my face and gives me kisses.
His dad is his best buddy.
And right now, Brian is building Brady his very own toy chest. 
And all these wonderful things bring me to my Big New Years Resolution.
Stay posted!




Friday, December 23, 2011

The Little Elf Party.


What an idea! My sis in law, Brandi thought up the idea of an Elf Party. All the kiddos getting together to decorate gingerbread houses. I'm sure I did this as a child, but can't remember for certain. So I'm going to say this was the first time for both of us! I decorated the gingerbread house...while Brady helped out with the decorations (by putting them all in his mouth!)




Then it was clean up time. The child was stripped down. He was covered in icing, gumdrops, and sugar.


My sweet little elf had a sugar high that made him a happy little wild child.

 These are the sweetest memories I'll treasure forever! Thank you Aunt B for inviting us to your Elf Party! Tomorrow is Christmas Eve. We have a bright and shiny tree, with too many presents underneath. We have a big ol' happy family, waiting for everyone's company and memories to be made. Presents are wrapped, sweets are waiting to be eaten, we have been waiting for this special time of year for so long!

***We wish you all a VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!***

Sunday, December 18, 2011

The Brighter Side.

 Today was just one of those days.
The kind of day where the sun was a little brighter, I was happy being schedule-free, and all that mattered was Brian & Brady.
There is nothing in the world more beautiful than seeing Brady walk towards me with his arms open wide, and a huge smile on his face. I never knew becoming a mother would be this rewarding.
Your whole heart changes when you become a mother. Everything is brighter.

Lately, I've been so busy at work, errands, finding gifts, being here, being there, being on trips, 
being crazy, really. The end of the year is always chaotic, but because I've been with a cold the past couple days, I had no choice but to slow things down. And then I realized, it's quite alright to take things just a little slower. (Adding this to my list of New Years Resolutions...)
So today was one of those joyful, carefree days that I've been craving for so long.

Brady wants to play outside all day, everyday.

If I had it my way, I'd smooch on this boy all day, but this might be embarrassing to such a tough little fella.

(Brian shot some nice pictures!)

Brian, Brady and I drove around looking at the colorful Christmas lights tonight. Brady loved it all, especially standing in Brian's lap, "driving" the truck. Tonight, Brian and I have a movie to watch. 
Want to know the last time we watched a movie together? Years. Probably before we were married...
Today, we were blessed with a bright, beautiful day, spent together. Just the three of us. 
Nothing in this world makes me happier.
A perfect Sunday.


Monday, December 12, 2011

Simply having a Wonderful Christmastime.


This is the most beautiful picture to me. 
I've been home one day from New York City, and missed these boys every second I was gone.
I still have plenty to gifts to buy & wrap. 
I'm still planning on baking. 
We have two parties we're attending this week.
Christmas is only two weeks away.
My sister is coming home.
Work is insanely busy busy busy.
And this is the perfect time of year. 

More pictures to come of our exciting adventures in the big apple.


Sunday, December 4, 2011

Movin' on up.


        This week happens to be an extremely exciting one. I'm moving into another room in Emmanuel's Salon. I'm moving upstairs where it's most quiet and calm. I have one huge room to myself. A fireplace, a beautiful loveseat, I'm thrilled! I'm so thankful for this opportunity to have my own salon within a salon. (Because by the looks of my crazy life, I don't see any time to pencil in opening my own place.) I've made my favorite chocolate oatmeal cookies tonight for a wonderful stylist who will be treating me to one of her services tomorrow...extensions! I've had them once before, and absolutely enjoyed every minute of this fun change. I love short hair, I love long hair, I love versatility. And this, friends, is why I'm in the business I'm in.
        This week, I'm working Monday & Wednesday only. Two very busy days, at that, but I've got to be rested up for Thursday. Because on Thursday, we are leaving for Charlotte. And from Charlotte, we are leaving for New York City, baby. And if at all possible, I will be coming home with the bright "I <3 NY" t-shirt that I should've grabbed the first time I visited. I'm looking forward to Rockefeller Center, Cold Weather, Christmas all around us, Phantom of the Opera, and even traffic. I can't wait to be in the center of all the wild hustle and bustle. On Friday, we'll be in heaven on earth. 
NYC, I've been dreaming of you. 



Wednesday, November 30, 2011

Emmanuel's Salon & Spa: My home away from home.


This is my job. What I grew up to be. This is life when I'm away from little Brady J.
I consult. I formulate color. I snip this. Texturize that. Twist this. Pin that. 
I use scissors, dryers, bowls, brushes, combs, pins, clips & foils.
I cocktail styling products.
I learn everyday.
I hear stories.
I keep secrets.
I'm a hairstylist. 
And I love everything about this dream job.


I've worked proudly at Emmanuel's Salon since October of 2008. 



**Thanks to Emily Hoffman for each picture in this post.**

Sunday, November 27, 2011

We held hands, and walked together.

Today was a day spent perfectly with the boys.

Brian and Brady J brought me a flower.

Brady and I held hands and walked together.
I couldn't wait for this day!

We all went Christmas shopping.

We took a walk around the block with the pups, all while Brady talked and waved.

The Christmas tree is up and shining.

We spent time with Heather, Eric, Carley & Andrew last night to watch the game.
(although the score wasn't thrilling, the company & food were.)

I've learned a little more about my camera.

It's been one wonderful weekend.



Friday, November 25, 2011

All together.

Thanksgiving.

       His first Thanksgiving was enjoyable in every way. We spent time with loved ones, ate LOTS, and played outside in the sunshine. Brady J was a happy boy. We loved our day together! 

Mom & the Wild Child

Ellie & Josie 

Jack, Brian, Brady J, and Dear Ol' Dad.

It was a very Happy Thanksgiving, with full tummies & lots of laughs.
...and nighttime brought our our wild sides...

Shopping for 10 hours, Awake for 24 hours, 7 Stores, & Santa brought us special drinks, made us laugh, all while we stood in line anxious to claim our prizes...

One of which, I was threatened to be put for sale if I didn't bring home this special item he wanted so much! We had such a good time, I'll catch up on sleep one day, and hope to see a Christmas tree sparkling in the morning. The most wild & crazy time of year is here!

Wednesday, November 23, 2011

Let Tradition Begin.


          Here we are folks. It's time to acknowlege our blessings, and enjoy every wonderful minute of the holidays. Somehow, this year that's changed my life forever, is coming to such a bittersweet end. This was the year I became a mother. I remember laughing as the three of us walked into the hospital to deliver this baby. Brian, Andrew, and myself with Brady. I've been out-numbered from the beginning! The first night Brady J slept in another room, while I cried, and held his blanket. The first time he said "Mama", and today... he's taken his very first steps! Today it's hit me the very hardest. He's taken his first steps, he's dancing to music, and oh my goodness, the best year of my life is almost over!
        I know there are many more wonderful years with these boys ahead. This brings me to the special word "thankful". Thankful. Grateful. Content. Three words that the past year has made ever so meaningful. All the things I'm so grateful for, I could go on forever. Here are just a few.

I'm thankful for my two men, Brian & Brady J.
I'm thankful to see life in another light, because of my boys. 
I'm thankful for my supportive & loving family.
I'm thankful for the blessings God has given our family throughout the year. 
I'm thankful for the friends that will always be friends, no matter the time or distance between us.
I'm thankful for work. For the rewarding job, relaxed atmosphere, and wonderful owners of Emmanuel's.
I'm thankful for two precious dogs, who never knew they'd be best friends.
I'm thankful to live in a clean, safe neighborhood, full of wonderful people, fun people. 
I'm thankful for a warm home, warm bed, and Tazo Zen Tea.
....and the list goes on and on and on. 

  Tomorrow is Thanksgiving. We're spending the day with my family for lunch, strolling downtown together, and a little different tradition of dinner at the Poinsett. I can't wait to spend time with everyone together. Thanksgiving this year has a brand new meaning. My new life of being a mother has become such a dream come true. I'm more than thankful. I'm entirely grateful for the life He's blessed us with. Let us enjoy the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade snuggled in bed, our bellies full of delicious food, enjoying every second with the ones we love.... let us be thankful.

THANKFUL. GRATEFUL. CONTENT.

Sunday, November 20, 2011

After a long day...


           After 6 hours of a Cosmetology Continuing Ed class in Spartanburg, I was more than ready to be comfortable at home. On a Sunday, it's one of the longest days of the year...but I was in great company! I love Emmanuel's Salon & Spa, and my entire stylist family. The day wasn't so bad, but it just seemed to be a little brighter when I walked through my door...
   
As you see, Brian is child-locking more cabinets...
And Brady is happy because that's just Brady.

Saturday, November 19, 2011

Finding myself.


     My sweet boy has had a long week. Which means we've had a HECK of a long week. These new teeth are making their appearance rather slowly. Must be payback. This angel child has had his first fussy week. It had to happen. I've never seen a baby so happy all the time, at some point the fussiness was bound to set in. With fussiness comes curiosity, so Brady has found a new name for himself. George. Toilet paper has been pulled off the roll, switches are on and off, and new unlocked cabinets have been opened. This child has become a hurricane. With everything I think MUST be done, this is such an inconvenience chasing this child up, down, and around the house...



     But as I was giving him his bath, and rocking him to sleep, I've realized just how selfish I've been to complain in any way about this healthy baby boy with all this energy. It can be frustrating, exhausting, and even emotional to follow little footsteps around for 12 hours. Sometimes with no nap at all. It takes everything out of you. But the most frustrating thing, is when it's looked upon as irresponsible when my child is put as my first priority. Being a mother is responsibility. I believe even small experiences and interactions with people will help you learn more about yourself. I don't apologize, and never will, that my sweet boy comes before my work, my schedule, and anyone who dares to challenge that. 
     Learning more and more everyday from unexpected challenges that are thrown my way. Each day can be a learning experience if you're open to the thought. That's how we grow. This week, I'm so thankful for all the women in my life who understand and listen when I need that moment of rest. 
We're starting a new week tomorrow. The week of Thanksgiving. Let us be thankful for every blessing in life. The blessings that help us grow, connect with one another, and learn a little more about ourselves every step of the way. 
   This week, I've practiced patience & I've given LOTS more kisses than usual. 

Brady found our special cabinet. Next thing I know, he was holding a martini glass. Even he knew how much his crazy mom needed a break. ;)

Sunday, November 13, 2011

Confessions from Mom.

He was mine all mine for the weekend.

     This weekend was quite different in every way than all the others. Brian left to go on his annual camping trip with friends. I know he looks forward to this. Camping, fires, food, beer, and who knows what they talk about... but this was a weekend I looked forward to, too. 
    Friday night, we had a date night planned for dinner possibly, and a concert. Just the two of us. The concert was canceled... Which means Brian was to leave earlier for his trip, and I had a surprise date with my sweatpants. I wasn't heartbroken. My dad brought Mexican food over, and as soon as I put little Brady to sleep, we ate like piggies. It was so nice to visit with him, and know the rest of the night I had all to myself!! I had a big bed with my name on it. And a tv remote that tonight, was tuning into whatever I wanted. I fell asleep to Alice in Wonderland. 
    Saturday, Brady and I shopped a little for some Christmas decorations, and visited with Aunt B, Anna & Ava. We had our whole day together. Just how I liked it! Saturday night came along, and a couple of very loved friends came by to visit! Heather and I wanted to eat horribly (again)...so we ordered a large pizza... watched two movies...and I was in heaven. I needed this. (It's been over a year since I've watched a movie. And it's seemed even longer with a night with the girls!)
     Then I heard a cry. Brady never wakes up like this...he was sick. So sick. This is the first time I've ever been up all night with a sick baby. I did anything to keep him from screaming. This meant he fell asleep web browsing on my phone, shredding tissues all over the bed, and flopping like a fish out of water for hours through the night. Exhausted beyond belief. All while teething. But I did it. Alone. And I said a prayer for every mother in the world that handles this with no help at all. 
     Brian made it home safely, and I've been in my pajamas since... I wont say when. Both my dad and father in law brought me breakfast and everything I needed to get Brady well. All I know, is through the weekend, I learned a lot.  I've learned to keep medicine on hand just in case, to thank the Lord everyday for giving me a loving and helpful husband, and that help from family is what keeps our family so strong. This weekend makes me realize just how much moms do. We can do the impossible. This is nothing. Only the beginning! He's 10 months old and and I have no idea what lies ahead... 
I'm thankful for this guy here. He rushed home early from the mountains to be with us.
(Even had an awesome story to tell when he got home...)



    
       
      
    



        

Wednesday, November 9, 2011

Boys and Dirt.



      ~ On Tuesday, we took a few minutes away from the chaos of running errands and folding laundry to get some fresh air and enjoy this crisp fall air!  Brady crawled around in dirt, crackled leaves, and was happy as could be. Just like his daddy. A little playtime never hurt anyone. ~













Sunday, November 6, 2011

What Brady Gets for Christmas...

His Two Front Teeth!

    Today, my sweet child turns 10 months old. Another day to remind me just how fast time is flying by. This child brings me happiness like I've never felt before. You can't create, buy, or find this happiness yourself. It's nothing but a blessing from above!  I don't have the words to explain what this boy means to us. 
     So today, turning 10 months, we also celebrated another milestone. Someone is finally cutting teeth! And it's not the small bottom teeth. It's the boy's TWO FRONT TEETH! How cute this is going to be! I'm pretty sure there will be a big gap in between, too, which is even more adorable :)
    Our little man makes me smile. When I have any free time at all away from home... I usually catch myself looking through pictures, or watching videos of his fun little self.  This, my friends is what I've been missing. This precious soul! He's been with us almost a whole year. And this year, has been the happiest year of my life. From the first smile and giggle to high fives, headbutting, and clapping when we say "Tigers!"....these small things bring us so much joy. 
       
Happy 10 Months, Brady J.
You're so loved.

    
    

Wednesday, November 2, 2011

Holiday Beginnings.

He was a Tiger for Halloween.
Go figure!
But he didn't like the hat...

   This is only the very beginning of the most magical time of year. Where things sparkle, shine and everything seems to be sweet. (By this, I mean there's plenty of chocolate everywhere you turn...) With Halloween being only two days behind us, I'm getting myself ready for the holidays. I'm ready for decorating, music, baking, candles, wrapping, hot chocolate, and my big knit throw. I've printed recipes for dreamy sweet things... things like Double Dark Chocolate and Ginger Biscotti. Sugar Doughnut Muffins. YES, you know this sounds great. But, this year, Christmas will be completely different. It's his very first Christmas! This means Christmas pajamas, lights, and snuggle time near the fire with Brian & Brady. And the pups, of course. It makes my heart melt just thinking about it! I can't wait to share all the magic with him! He may get a few toys (just may.) But I'm most excited to see his eyes when we light up the tree. I can't wait to wake up Christmas morning with him. It's Santa's first visit this year you know. Hopefully he won't go overboard. 

    Another thing I'm giddy about is New York City! There's one place I must see and this is it.
NYC is amazing, exciting, and everything you can imagine. 
I know this only from the three days I've visited.

-Rockefeller Center-

 What I wish most for this Christmas is that we spend time with our family. And as much time as we can! I don't need gifts, I just want time with my family. There is nothing in the entire world more wonderful than falling asleep by the crackling fire. (May not be the safest thing...) 

So far, I haven't bought any gifts. Just golden sparkle wrapping paper.
-Bring on the holidays-




Saturday, October 29, 2011

Summer in October.

Cabo San Lucas, Mexico.
-looking back on this dreamy week-
warm & breezy sunrise by the ocean
lounging in the pool with frozen drinks & more drinks.
morning massage by the ocean with my husband.
mexican flea markets, glass factory & whale watching.
holding hands & snorkeling together.
glass bottom boat to Lovers Beach, losing my sandals in the Pacific.
Laughing so hard & rounds of Tequila Boom Boom.
Leaving our marks in Cabo Wabo.
the smell of cigars. 
tasting my first omelet & kiwi.
Allison enjoying sushi!
listening to Brian speak nearly fluent Spanish. (or so I thought.)
Robbie. (spotlight was on him.)
skyping with Brady and singing him to sleep. while i cried.
quesadillas, burritos & enchiladas for breakfast.
laughing & running while we try to catch our flight.
having wonderful friends to share the week with.
realizing how fortunate we really are.
bringing home sand in my suitcase.

Good morning from Cabo.

Breakfast. A feast.

With intentions of seeing fish while snorkeling, we saw something much larger while on the boat...
One of the most beautiful things I've ever seen.

Last morning in Mexico.


Our outing together.

Dinner Sunset.

What an incredible week.

... and then it was time for home sweet home. 
From Summer to Fall.
From 90 degree sunshine to 40 degree rain...
BUT-
 It's the little guy's first Halloween, first costume & it's a cozy, comfortable kind of season to be home enjoying!
Next trip: NYC Darling! 


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Living with intention. Life in the south as a wife, mama, hairstylist, and food lover.

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