The Little Blog Dress: June 2014

The Rudeness of People-Infertility Edition

I guess I should say, I don't know if I am actually infertile....as I have unexplained infertility...this is actually a medical term, if you can believe. We have decided after over a year of unsuccessfully trying that adoption will be our method of raising a family and to be honest, I am really excited.

I am not even going to try to blue sky this, I am really looking forward to this new process and stopping this terrible merry go round that has put strain on our bank account and our marriage this last year.

I literally woke up one morning a couple of months ago and said I am not doing this anymore.

I am not putting these hormones in my body any longer
I am not gonna gain weight in my belly like i swallowed something
I am not gonna try to deal with the anxiety and the stress every cussword month and analyze every single difference in my body which leads to illusion of grandeur.

I could go on and on. Lets be honest here, I am 40 and have never been pregnant. Just because I became pregnant doesnt guarantee I was to stay pregnant. Or deliver a baby with needs bigger than my own, which at 40 may or not been something we were equipped to deal with mentally.

So, with my husband on board we have made a fair and balanced decision that works for us. Like my best friend says, we will be parents-this is no doubt. So I look forward to sharing some of my adoption journey with you.

What doesn't stop is the utter rudeness of people when it comes to this matter. I promise bodily harm for the next person who shrugs when you tell them your new path and smiles real big like they are the first person to think of this and say well THAT is when you will get pregnant, and then continue to tell me the wives tale of someone who knew someone that this happened to them.

I also am shying away from birthday parties and baby showers for a while. Last month, we were getting ready to go to my nephews birthday party which is normally a fun family day. For some reason, I told my husband that I didnt really feel like going. No sooner than walking in, a family friend who hasnt seen me since my wedding ran over, GRABBED my belly and said Do you have a baby yet? And when I blinked a whole bunch and said No, she digged back in and said WELL WHY NOT??

So there is that. And my friend (who I am happy for) who had sex on her honeymoon a bunch and boom got pregnant...or the checkout girl at Publix this week who was asked if she was going to have any more children shrugged and said, I don't know, maybe....like it is that easy. So I know that this feeling of anguish won't necessarily go away anytime soon but it will be nice to have a new focus and a new journey..and it will be nice to share it with you.

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S.R. Perrott Distributing Grand Opening Ribbon Cutting

Another exciting night in Ormond Beach tonight! I was so excited to be invited to S.R. Perrott's grand opening! The Connors family embodies what is great about Ormond and I am so happy to know them. They have helped a jillion special events or causes for me and my organizations over the years. They always go over and above and I just adore! Funny, that this was the sentiment all night, there inane generosity to the community.

Wasn't it so nice of them to build their new warehouse across the street from my development? Coincidence? I think not!

Tonight, S.R. Perrott, Inc. held a ribbon cutting ceremony to commemorate the grand opening and operation of the company’s new 90,000 square foot beverage distribution warehouse. The new location will relocate and will employ 155 and service more than 1300 retail accounts. More than 500 guests were expected to attend the event, along with dignitaries from the City of Ormond and Volusia County.

Working with the city of Ormond Beach, S.R. Perrott relocated its warehousing facility within the city limits. Through their partnership the City of Ormond Beach has set up an incentive program and S.R. Perrott, Inc. will receive $100,000 in tax reimbursements over a five year period. S.R. Perrott, Inc. is heavily involved in the community and charitable events and donates to numerous charitable organizations.

Mayor Ed Kelley, Gary and Michelle Connors

S.R. Perrott, Inc. is a total beverage distributor serving Volusia, Flagler and parts of Putnam and Lake Counties in Florida. S.R. Perrott, Inc. represents over 59 suppliers, including MillerCoors, Heineken, Constellation Brands, Yuengling, Boston Beer Co., Pabst Brewing Co., Guinness-Diageo, and many more. S.R. Perrott, Inc. is family owned and has serviced the area since 1962.

The highlight of the night for me was a generous donation by S.R. Perrott to Ormond Mainstreet, which is the downtown organization that I am a proud to be a board member.

President Rich Cooper accepting Ormond Mainstreet Donation

My friend Kaylee and I

My favorite part of the night? Seeing this upon entering! I am such a nerd but don't you love it?! (hashtag-they get it)

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The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon Orlando

Because we share a brain and I don't want to bore you repeating ourselves, I am gonna follow up Megan's blog, with a couple of my thoughts on our day in Orlando. What a great way to spend my girl's birthday! I have been friends with Megan since her 23rd birthday so it is always fun to spend her day with her.

My husband got to go too! I was really excited that he was able to come and the fact that Kevin Hart is one of our favorite comedians made it that much better. We got there early and spent the day in Orlando Citywalk...and by spending I mean hopping from bar to restaurant. I haven't been to Universal Studios in a really long time and it was a great way to spend a day off.

Jimmy Fallon was stellar but what I was incredibly geeked out about was seeing The Roots in full effect. I love them and blink a bunch when people don't realize that this house gig isn't there first break into the big time. To school you quickly The Roots have been a well established band since the early 90's! Google it and be inspired! You are welcome!

Oh by the way, NBC-you didn't say I couldn't take pictures at the end until you said it after I took them. Sorry!!

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Houston-Like Couscous with 14 Hands 2013 Riesling Washington State

I received some delicious wines from my new favorite people at 14 Hands for review and I was thinking of what to make for dinner this week to pair with them. For some reason, I started thinking about Houston's restaurant and how I am so sad that it is now a Millstone. Although they have some of the same dishes some of my old faithfuls didn't make the cut.

The one thing that they still have that I love is their couscous, I remembered I used to stalk the waiters and demand them to give me the recipe and I recently found it (on a napkin, thank you) when we moved. The great thing about this recipe is its a little bit of this and that, until it tastes the way you love and its really easy.

Cook couscous according to directions and set aside.

In a food processor combine:

3/4 cup radishes

3 tablespoons minced Italian parsley

12 cherry tomatoes

1 clove of garlic

About ½ cup whole fresh mint leaves

Add

3 tablespoons finely cut green onions

1/2 cup raisins

1/3 cup whole roasted, skin-on almonds

Mix in a small bowl

1/2 cup plain greek yogurt

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice, preferably Meyer lemon, more to taste

1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil, more to taste

Salt, garlic powder, Cavenders and pepper to taste

1/4 c orange juice

crushed red pepper to taste

Take this concoction and add it to the couscous and throw in your food processor mixture. Season to taste and enjoy! It is good hot, but I LOVE it cold! I served this with grilled chicken, but its yummy by itself!

I have a GREAT wine to pair this with!! First off I am a big fan of any wine from Washington State, make an effort the next time you buy a bottle to try this region, it puts a great spin on your favorites!

14 Hands 2013 Riesling Washington State makes a great pairing for this dish, and most of your dishes now that the weather is so so hot. Its crisp and refreshing and you can pair it with a meal or drink it on the boat this summer. The red pepper in this couscous gives it a little heat which this Riesling will cool you down in no time.

Find 14 Hands 2013 Riesling at your favorite store by searching here. Its at such a good price point, stock up! Don't forget riesling makes AMAZING sangria too!

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Friday Five, Five Place I'd like to Run

Today I linked up with Eat, Pray, Run DC and You Signed Up for What, and Mar on the Run for this fun Friday Five.

A creature of habit, I usually always take the same run. Not very exciting, but it keeps me focussed because I know how long one mile is, two etc. But when I travel, it is fun to enjoy a new landscape.

Here are some of the places that I wish to run and funny enough, some of these places I have been or will be visiting in the next year.

New York City-this is a big no kidding for anyone who reads this blog. We had the best of intentions in September when we went but it rained the one morning we could squeeze it in. When I was there in December I stopped and gawked at crazy ladies who were suited up and running within the crowds in 20-30 degree weather. You have to be chemically insane to attempt. I mean. seriously, that can't be fun. But to run in the Spring or the Fall...awwwww gorgeous.

Raleigh, North Carolina-the weather is so gorgeous here in November when we will be visiting this year for the Florida State Seminoles game. Very excited to go again! Our friends that we are going with are hard core marathon/Iron Man runners which is intimidating but to sneak in a couple of miles will be refreshing. Their neighborhood is really cute!

Bahamas (ala cruise ship)-we are going to the Bahamas for a cruise in September for Megan's bachelorette party. My plan, hopefully is to get up and run a little on the track on the top of the ship. I hope!! Running cures hangovers doesn't it?

The last two are on my bucket list and really need no explanation, n'est pas?

Paris, France

Italy

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Seabreeze Football Boosters Annual Golf Tournament

One of the cooler things about living in one town your whole life is you get a chance to promote really fun events and fundraisers for your alma mater. By the way, the term Alma Mater makes me feel like I am 92...how about, the lovely institution that I received my high schooling at is having its Annual Golf Tournament? Its July 25th at the Riverbend Golf Course and is for a great cause-the Seabreeze High School Football Boosters.

If you are a golfer, and live in the Volusia County area, won't you think about supporting Seabreeze High School Football Boosters? It's a GREAT school clearly, look how me and my friends turned out!

Mark your calendars for the Seabreeze Football Booster Golf Tournament (Presented by Realty Insurance Consultants) on August 2, 2014. We need help from all Sandcrab Nation to make this event the best ever!!!

Looking for the following:

Golfers/Teams/Hole Sponsors

Corporate/Personal Sponsors

Event Volunteers

Raffle Prices

Silent Auction Items

They are holding an organizational meeting June 19 at the New Houligans at Destination Daytona at 7:00PM.

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National Wear Your Lilly Day

Lilly Pulitzer is important to me as a Junior League member because of their collaboration over the years. The scarves that come out annually are gorgeous. Take a second to read an article on Lilly's blog about the Junior League.

It is officially the first day of summer this weekend, contrary to popular Floridian Belief. It is also National Wear Your Lilly Day and to celebrate Lilly Pulitzer®, the authentic resort fashion brand owned by Oxford Industries, Inc., Lilly Lovers will toast their lighthearted lifestyle and the sunny days to come in their favorite Lilly pieces.

Summer is bolder and brighter and in the world of fashion, Lilly is THE resort brand to fulfill those requirements. The perfect answer to a jet-set lifestyle inspired by their Palm Beach roots, the Lilly world is filled with bright colors and wild prints. Whether you’re at a pool-side soiree, weekend wedding or burying your toes in the sand, Lilly Pulitzer’s classic chic styles and personality-filled prints are always bound to kick your summer into high gear.

Lilly will also be spreading the celebration on June 21st in-store, online, and via their social media platforms. Just like Lilly opened stores wherever she had friends, on National Wear Your Lilly Day you will find well-known friends of the brand painting your Instagram feed in colorful prints and sunny illustrations custom made by the Lilly Print Studio.

Taking the social media a step further, this summer Lilly is innovating with a user-generated content gallery via Offerpop Commerce that turns the hashtag #summerinlilly into a shoppable feed from bright & stylish Lilly Girls.

Finally, Lilly Pulitzer retail and signature stores will be partying Saturday, June 21st with music, sips & sweets, giveaways and much more!

Shop the Summer Collection at www.lillypuliter.com so you are ready for the First Day of Summer!

About Lilly Pulitzer®
Lilly Pulitzer designs and distributes apparel and accessories for women, children and men. It all started 50ish years ago with a simple shift dress in Palm Beach, Florida. Today, Lilly Pulitzer provides a collection of modern resort wear inspired by the authentic Palm Beach lifestyle. Lilly Pulitzer can be found online and in 26 company-operated retail stores, over 70 Signature Stores and major department stores nationwide. For more information on products, distribution and the Lilly Pulitzer story, please visit http://www.lillypulitzer.com and http://blog.lillypulitzer.com or follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest.

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Spaghetti Squash Lasagna Boats

Skinnytaste is a food blogger that I have been following for quite a while. She has DELICIOUS recipes, alway catered to Weight Watchers points and the best thing out of it all? Gina lives in my hometown of Oceanside, NY!! Woo!

Her recipes come to my inbox daily and I always am impressing the Mister with my mad healthy skills in the kitchen with her yummy dishes. As with anything that I follow, the rest of the world eventually catches on..ha ha. Her cookbook comes out this fall and Tar-jay has a nice pre-order special for you!

So excited for her and can't wait for the rest of the world to recognize!!

This week at the Ormond Beach Farmers Market I bought a spaghetti squash as big as my head for $4. It was truly like a watermelon!! When looking for a recipe instead of doing the same ole recipe that I usually do, I found Gina's Skinny Squash Lasagna Boats. So ridiculously easy and good, you are gonna be a superstar tonight for dinner!

Find the recipe here. If you need some food porn from this awesomeness, see below!

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Bingo Night For Breast Cancer

Our area does the coolest things! Last weekend my friends from REALTORS Sold 4 the Cause got together and did a killer Beach Bike Boob Cruise!! They are a united group of REALTORS and friends who walk in support of our loved ones who have courageously fought breast cancer. They hold a couple of events throughout the year and the next one will be in July! Bingo Night 4 Breast Cancer-Who doesn't love BINGO??

It will be held at the Oceanside Inn at the Daytona Beach Shores. Info below is on the poster, but if you want to RSVP Rose Roberts 386-299-1175 rosemroberts@gmail.com or Debbie Callahan 386-299-5281 or debbie@adamscameron.com

Read more about the Beach Boob Cruise from this article from the Ormond Beach Observer

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Rants and Ravesssssss

Just A prattle! Nothing to see here! Here is what's happening in my neck of the woods....

1. Today is June 11th,two of my favorite people in the world who both live in LA and both are born today. My one favorite person has fallen off my radar...prob some girl or something but my other sweet darling friend, it makes my day to call him every year.

I am so so lucky to have a career where in 1997 I was invited to go to dinner to meet this record's rep and his baby band for dinner in Orlando. Truth be told, I just wanted to meet the record rep who I spoke to for months without meeting. Well, as luck would have it these three boys would give me some of the best memories that one could imagine in her 20's, 30's and today. Lucky girl indeed. I have managed in all of lifes hubub to keep in touch with two of them on a pretty regular basis...but if nothing else BIG song singing on birthdays.

2. In business ownership, every day is a learning experience. Today I had to challenge myself with a client who had run out of money. Instead of being honest, its so much easier to shift blame-isn't it? Most people expect you to bend till you break because the man is waiting back at the office for the order. Sad for you lady, I am the man...so thank you for the ride.

3. An era ended for me on Friday. After 19 years, not even a handshake wasn't even offered. Historically a tragedy, but this too shall pass. Also a life lesson on who really matters, am thankful for the people that reached out...am contemplating the people that didn't...meaning, exactly what value they have on my special life? Insert hand washing emoji here!

4. Happier news, we get to see Jimmy Fallon on Tuesday and my child Megan is turning 35! WHAT THE HELLLL!!!!! How is this possible?!

5. I am going to resurrect a really cool breast cancer project, I decided this morning! Wait and see!

6. Had lunch with a fellow colleague today, we got to talk shop and it was refreshing.

7. Can I be honest? I really like working out. There. It is written.

8. Someone may or not bought prescription Ray Ban Jackie O's today. Whoops.

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Stewart Marchman Act Foundation to Honor NASCAR Driver Mike Skinner

Every July, The Stewart Marchman Act Foundation honors a person for their actions on and off the track. Commonly this is a member of the NASCAR community but always a REALLY fun event. The SMA Foundation is hosting it's annual fundraising dinner at the Daytona 500 Club at the Daytona International Speedway on July 2nd. This year's honoree is veteran NASCAR driver Mike Skinner, the foundation welcomes him "home" as him and his wife Angie lives in Daytona Beach part of the year.

If you are in town for the race, or have a business that would like to support an awesome cause, this is your ticket. AND my friend is the chair of the Foundation, so you know it is for the right reason!

Previous honorees include:

2013 - Trevor Bayne

2012 - State Senator Evelyn Lynn

2011 - Jamie McMurray

2010 - Alan Gustafson

2009 - Vince Carter

2008 - Dale Jarrett

2007 - Bobby Ginn

2006 - Kyle Petty

2005 - Michael Waltrip

2004 - Hal Marchman

2003 - Jimmie Johnson

2002 - Kevin Harvick

2000 - Darrel Waltrip

1999 - Richard Petty

1998 - Mark Martin

Event sponsorships, corporate or family tables, and individual seats are still available, but they are filling up fast. If you would like to be a part of honoring Mike Skinner, please contact the SMA Foundation at 386.254.1136 or click here for sponsorship packet.

About Stewart Marchman

The Stewart-Marchman-Act Foundation was established in 1997. Their sole purpose and mission is to build resources to compliment the programs of SMA, conduct behavioral healthcare research and provide community education.

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Happy National Running Day!

Today is National Running Day! I wanted to take time to tell you why I am so thankful to be a runner.

1. I am so thankful that I have the ability to run. Physically I am able to, Spiritually I always want to go for one which is surprising for someone who never worked out as a hobby, only a chore.

2. Music has always been a very strong connection for me. Being able to listen to my jams while I run is always what pushes me. I have a couple of friends who dont listen to anything and I don't understand that at all. I have tried the audio books but really a little "Turn Down For What" will make you happy. Sorry for passers by when Britney comes on!! Running karaoke is fun!

3. I am happy the way running has reshaped my body, kept weight off and make me feel like I am holding a big secret, that being 40 and a HALF aint so bad.

4. I think a lot when I run. Its very therapeutic.

5. I have mentioned this before but being a runner instantly connects you to other runners. Boy or girl, doesn't matter-its a bonding conversation that can last for hours.

6. I can't believe I am gonna say this out loud, but when I get a pedicure-I always feel very proud when I shoo away the cheese grater and say I am a runner...you need to use the stone! #sorrynotsorry

7. I get to see sunrises like this:

Those are some of mine, why do you run?

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