The Little Blog Dress

Pursed Lips February 9, 2018

What’s funny is my phone autocorrected the title to Purses Lips instead of Pursed. To be fair based on the last time I blogged, it’s a sad and purse lips worthy moment indeed. Admittedly, my Instagram has taken over much of my blog like behavior, especially via the Insta-Stories...but I have missed writing in this space and I need to promise myself to be a little more committed. I even wrote it down to blog more. It’s also written under *breathe*...may seem weird to you, but sometimes I need the reminder!

It’s 220am on Friday morning and I have slept only a few hours. There is nothing anxious on my mind, but sometimes I go through these long spouts of time where sleep isn’t a part of my agenda. I then go down these long rabbit holes on the interwebs looking up all kinds of things. Shopping for ridiculous things. Planning events that are months away! What did the world do before electronics when one couldn’t sleep, did they just lay there?

Ok, on to a couple of things....

Essential Oils
I have been a fan of essential oils for a very long time but lately I have been really reinvesting my time with them...using them daily and diffusing then. The diffusing part is a little new to me but I really like it. I have been buying the ones I diffuse on Amazon but the ones I use daily, I get from Shanti Aromatherapy. She is local to me but has a pretty successful business nationwide and is also one of the best masseuse around. Her peppermint oil I can’t live without. Literally am unable to exist without it when I get a headache. I also use lavender on the daily...lately I have been enjoying frankincense which is super grounding (without being hippy dippy). It also reminds me that it is as close as I will get to church anytime soon with my crazy life.

I realize that Young Living and DoTerra are uber popular but Shanti is the real deal for me. I will say that YL Thieves has kept my family healthy this season but for everything else Anne is your girl. Shop local, Yo!

Taste of Ormond
My favorite event is coming up! It’s hard to believe that Spring will be here soon but planning for this is a great reminder! You all know how important Ormond Mainstreet is to me. If you know of a business that would like to attend. Please let me know!

Rae Dunn
New Obsession. Why? Why? Why? As luck would have it my friend Kymmers bought me my first mug years ago as a prize and it has been my favorite mug to date. Do you know it is now considered vintage and is selling on EBay for $150? I kid you not! But now I find myself scouring TJ Maxx and Marshall’s on the daily looking for mugs to add to my collection. Yesterday, I almost bought two Mrs. mugs...clearly for a LGBT couple, sold as a set but I sat and thought about this for more than a couple of minutes!!! I could have TWO Mrs. mugs! I could give one to Megan! Or to my client whose wedding invites I just completed! It’s now 2:45a and I have just decided I shall go back to TJ Maxx tomorrow..er later today and go get those damn mugs.

Dreams. Also Jurisdiction for a Divorce.

A change of pace
I have a super good idea for another venture I want to begin. I think I just heard the amazing lady who helps me with my books (who is also is nice enough to read my blog) just groan but there is something huge missing in our area and I know just how to fix it.

I am becoming more and more interested in diversifying my professional life. Try to focus on what I love. Stop making work work. I love my social media but I’ve been at it a very long time, Love and wish to keep my current client load but have no desire to beat the streets for new business in that arena. I am enjoying Noted but it is very very stressful (the invitation side). I am passionate to be as perfect as possible and the self doubt, the need for affirmation that the client is happy and the time it takes is really working on me and my anxiety. So I have a couple of things in the hopper. Stay tuned, and say a little prayer for me. Or hand me some more Frankincense.

Watch the Marvelous Mrs. Maisel or we can’t be friends.

There are so many people who could use this quote. Happy Weekend everyone!

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Thought for the Day

We need to be vigilant mentors to the young. When the Black Lives Matter movement appeared we should have stepped in and said, yes, we know why you are angry, but let us show you how you can take that anger and make it productive. We have to insert ourselves like that, otherwise these young people can be hijacked by the vultures of darkness in the leadership space. #ProgressIsPlural

A post shared by The Junior League (@juniorleague) on Nov 17, 2017 at 1:54pm PST

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The Woman I Am-Pursed Lips October 26, 2017

Hope you all don't mind my prattling lately. I have just been in a writing mood and instead of saying I should blog about that and don't...well...I have been.

It's Friday!

I hope you all have a good weekend planned. My goals are literally the same as last weekend. Technically we have no football this weekend as the FSU game is tonight at Boston College. I am surprised that they don't play today at 1p instead of Days of Our Lives, they are so bad. PS, do you ever look at your favorite soap operas?? The SAME PEOPLE are still there!

Joe Girardi is not returning to the Yankees next year. Honestly, bye Felicia....he never embodied the Yankee spirit, IMHO...Its hard to verbalize and listen, there will never be a Joe Torre (the grandfather I always wanted). But, he just had cold eyes. I am a weirdo, now you know. I need Derek Jeter to quit this Marlins nonsense and come home and be the manager. Please.

I am the woman I hated. My friend and I had an actual business lunch yesterday. We both have girls...Every is seven months old and I brought Lilly....we literally talked about being a mom the entire time. Who are we?? I think we went over about five minutes of business and then we spoke about everything mama in between. Goodness.

Speaking of which. Why are Moms so Mean? It keeps happening again and again. More on that later. But seriously....who are these women? I grew up here and have NO idea who the hell these mean girls are.

This week, we attempted our holiday shoot for our card. Attempt. There is a special place in heaven for my photographer if she gets something out of this. About an hour before the shoot, Lillian decided to learn the duck lip kissy face pose and wouldn't stay in one place to save her life. She also was all jacked up on Mountain Dew the entire time, it was like she has never seen the outdoors. Fairly she doesn't go outside much. Don't believe me? Here you go (blurry because it is on her computer screen).

Enjoy your freaking weekend!

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Pursed Lips October 20, 2017

Howdy Ya'All! It's the freaking weekend!

Biketoberfest

In Daytona, there is an event this weekend called Biketoberfest. It is exactly what you think it is. 100's and thousands of bikers of all shapes and sizes come and grace us with their loud unmuffled presence and allegedly dumps a ton of cash that now that I am in my (ahem) 40's I will never ever see. Back in the day, I took their money gracefully and gratefully as I handed them their Coors Light. Now, I am like...can I get the Iron Horse to deliver my steak tips? Please? It is only down the street.

Stay safe, watch for Bikers is what we say, which is actually French for these assholes do not care that you are driving a two ton vehicle and they have no helmet on, they are gonna come and go as they please. #Merica

Halloween

So. Much. Pressure. I think I have decided that Lillian will be a cat. Because it looks cute, I can make a tutu to go with it and the headpiece portion of it is actually doable. By doable I mean last more than five minutes before she yanks them out. I have seen all these amazing costumes, but seriously...show me the picture time stamped thirty minutes from when it was taken. No freaking way do any of those children look like that any time after when it was taken. Lillian is still a little young and I will just hope for the picture that I can post and then we can go home. Kind of kidding, but seriously. She can barely walk, she doesn't eat candy and that is a tad challenging. But all for the good of the spirit of the holiday. I guess. I am the epitome of the Halloween scrooge, always have been! I am not one to rush time but next year will be a little better!

Christmas

Yup. Christmas pictures will be this week. The stress and excitement of this may kill me. In a good giddy way. Like this is what keeps me awake at night. Again, in a good giddy way. I think I have settled on the design. I have been googling addressing creative ways and I will have a stamp that will be awesome. I ordered a white pen. I am actually typing faster and faster at the excitement of it all! I need help.

Super Excited to attend the King of the Grill, see the Seminoles hopefully barely squeak it out against Louisville and potentially finish the baby's room who will probably be seven before this actually happens.

What do you have planned this awesome weekend?

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Pursed Lips October 3 2017

I always have a lot to say but then sometimes not a lot at all. Pursed Lips will be an effort to keep me writing. Sorry in advance for the prattle.

Vegas

I am so sad at the massacre in Vegas. Once again, I have to reach deep in my heart and try to compose the most politically correct sounding message that portrays courage, is complete vanilla as to not offend (can I say pray?) but also a heartfelt message for my clients.

I am sad that there is now a #prayforVegas hashtag. Honestly, shouldn't we just #prayfortheworld? To watch any of the coverage is horrifying and social media makes it so worst. Quick, where is my picture of when I WAS IN VEGAS? How does the balance of narcissism and true empathy play out here? I got the facts and got out, it is not about me.

Cara, from the Champagne Diet posted this and I could not agree more:

STOP 🤚🏼 what you're doing right this moment and ask yourself: is this benefiting my BEST self?

If you're scrolling your newsfeed reading every last detail about a semi-stranger's life, if you're watching the news and taking in all the horrible stories, if you're saying shitty things to yourself about Monday before it's even happened - STOP.

You can redirect your thoughts at ANY time! 😍

Ask yourself: what would feel amazing right now? What would benefit my best self? How can I create my most incredible day? Here are some quick things that can shift your energy:

💕Go outside. Take a deep breath and look up at the clouds.

💕Find or write a few power mantras and repeat them as many times as you need.

💕Turn on an inspiring podcast and enjoy it while having a hot cup of coffee.

💕Send a quick text or email to someone you love and tell them how much they mean to you.

REDIRECT, REDIRECT, REDIRECT! That is my word for the week. What's yours?

Tom Petty

I don't know one person my age that doesn't feel compelled to turn on the Wildflowers album this morning, grab their coffee and have a short cry. Music is such a connector. To memories, to time frames, to periods of just life. Tom Petty was a lot of those things for me. I listened to Full Moon Fever so much during the first couple of years in college! The first minute of American Girl kept me awake during more than a few road trips better than any cigarette/altoid/coffee combo could. (Ew, I used to smoke). Fab live but just as good on any radio....he will live in my heart forever.

High Five to my cleaning lady who asked me if Tom Petty was one the guys in NASCAR. I shit you not. Also, funny of note when he was reported dead but then not dead yet....someone uttered that 'He Won't Back Down'. Now that is funny.

Please Note:

This article is resonating. Yes, I am tired...no I am not complaining but I am also glad I am not alone.

I have made this dish twice already and I can't stop.

Completely obsessed with this pair of sneakers, even tho they squeak when I walk, why is that?

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Using Storify to Embed in Blogger

Did you know you could embed Storify stories onto your blog? Here is an example of a Twitter chat we did a couple of months ago!

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Hurricane and First Steps

Wishing all friends a safe and smart next couple of days as we await Hurricane Irma. I hate the term the calm before the storm, but while I should be packing up, doing laundry and breathing in a brown paper bag...I found myself drinking coffee horizontally watching Kimberly from Eat Sleep Wear put on her makeup and Eva Chen take an Uber to Fashion Week on Instagram Live.

The best meme all week is the one that described how Floridans are annoyed that the storm is above a Cat 2 and now we have to go do something. Seriously, It is Now the time to be safe and to pray and to shake your head at people bccause even in a time of worry, some still make it only about themselves. Hate that. Trying times brings the best and worst out of people, it is always a good time to think about what and more importantly who is most important and how you can help them.

Anywho! Some news on the Lilly front, we have a walker! Over the last couple of days, I think I saw her walk....I know that sounds strange but it is one of those things where I was like wait... am I really that tired or did she walk from the chair to the ottoman? But we finally got it on video! Conveniently she has a little sniffle for the second time in her life. I know that I am very lucky but I just hate when she is sick, it stresses me out more than most people. So, she looks like drool head mcguility and like she needs a serious bath (she does) but this is what memories are made of!

In the midst of our storm, a rainbow appears! Want to take a #Irma break and see a cute baby walk for the first time? #gimmethatcellphone #getsitfromhermama #ragamuffin

A post shared by Darlynn Nangano Tacinelli (@littleblogdress) on Sep 9, 2017 at 2:54am PDT

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Lilly turns One! Mom Dies from Overcrafting.

My best friend says I am the craftiest person she knows. This literally could be the best thing she has ever said to me in our 27 years of friendship.

I never really had the crafty bug, of course I went through "phases", the "I want to knit phase""Let's make jewelry phase"...oh! "Stamping, that sounds like a lovely way to spend your time!"

It wasn't until my wedding to wear the bug was bit and I was knee deep in Pinterest every night at 3a to deal with my insomnia. So, I have made this and that, helped a friend or two-but it wasn't till Lilly's party that I realized this was the first time since the "Big Day" that was an event for me to plan ~~all for myself~~ just for Lilly!

I have to admit that I did do some secret squirrelly things like pick the same theme for her party as he yet to be done nursery.
I know.
Yet to be done.

But, that changes THIS WEEK as we move out of our house and tile shall be laid! Then a whole new project that has been two years in the making will begin! I just did a little dance. Stay tuned!

For her party, I breathed in and out and used Trello as a planner and really enjoyed myself crafting and planning a soiree.

Invites.
Of course, when one starts an invitation business one can not fail on invites. I have been using Creative Market a little which gives me the graphics I need to pull off some great things. I just started dabbling in Illustrator, and could not be more please with my results.

As much energy as I spent on my invites, everyone wanted to know how the stamps came to be. I would tell you, but then I would have to kill you.

Decorations
This is pretty much where I knew I was having an issue with OCD, and I had to hide my efforts or my husband would divorce me. Exhibit A:

But in the end, it really looked amazing and I was proud of my craziness!

I wish to make a living making tutus

Parabo Press was so amazing to work with! Especially after I forgot one picture, they helped me rush it!

Yes, these are wood, and yes, I need medicine.

Complete helium tank fail, lesson learned-pay the extra money

Lilly's Year in the Life Banner, took off almost a year of my life while making.

Finished Project, thankfully it laid against the wall when displayed

Food
The food was super good, the biggest hit was these sandwiches. Delicious!

I took a semi naked cake from Publix added my own flowers and it was exactly what I wanted. My sister who is an excellent baker, made this amazing cupcakes. I hot glued seed packets to craft sticks like a crazy person, combined graham cracker and oreo crumbs because I wanted sand not dirt...cue crazier music....could not be happier how they turned out!

Results
Well, I think everyone had a good time. We had family only and four of my best friends. I could do it this way or I could have a 100 people at a party a baby would not remember. Speaking of which, I politely asked for no gifts, because we don't need any thing at this time. Like, seriously...want to give me and Lilly a good gift-come fold my laundry, please!

Seriously, we asked instead to donate to the Daytona Blues Festival which 100% of the proceeds goes towards the Halifax Health NICU and Project WARM...two very near and dears to my heart. We raised $500! I am so happy!

Ta. Da. We are one!

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The Last First!

Happy Fourth of July! I wonder if I am the loony one, but I am a little bummed this morning as this will be the last "First" holiday for our pumpkin. We are rolling into birthday season yo!

So, while most are boating, swimming and celebrating our independence-I am using this free day to solidify our first birthday party plan. I am enjoying planning this smallish, family only event like one would plan a wedding. But I don't care! It is a great day to celebrate, and I can not wait!

Enjoy your day! This is outfit one of three from our little Firecracker.

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Longboat Key Club Kicks Off The Start Of Summer

Steve and I have recently come back from a great staycation! It was just a short jaunt to the other coast and it was exactly what we needed to relax!

Over the next few blogs I am going to tell you a little bit about my time in Longboat Key and Sarasota, but I wanted to start with my fabulous accommodations at the Longboat Key Club.

This was an amazing resort, and I have some great things to tell you about our experience but I will first let them speak for themselves, they have some great specials!!!

The Toes in the Sand gets you on the beach in style with beach umbrella included and $75 per day beach Food & Beverages credit.

The Florida Resident rate is a great discount for Florida residents and is available year-round – we love our Florida visitors! Get away to the beach – just a short drive away! Best beach vacation ever!

Also, check out the The Tranquility Tea amenity, which guests can purchase for their arrival – it sets the tone for a great weekend wellness retreat or just a nice touch to a spa getaway. ($60).

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The Future Arrives One Day At A Time

This is one of my favorite sayings and it is always a good reminder!

Today is June! Remember how we hated June last year? Remember how the darkest and dreariest, could barely get out of bed days of my life was two Junes ago! But this June!!!!! It is full of every dreams are made of! Sunshine! Unicorns! The start of summer! The way things were meant to be!

June 1st also symbolizes a big day in the philanthropic piece of my life. Today, I am no longer THE Past President of the Junior League of Daytona Beach, I humbly join a bunch of amazing women and become A Past President of the Junior League of Daytona Beach.

Today, on June 1st also symbolizes the first day where I hang up my pearls and white gloves (as If!) and become a sustainer (it is our term for alumni, if you will) in my League. As my husband put it, sooo no more meetings? Ha! Yes, something like that!

Being a Junior League member is an amazing (and a little surprising) life changing experience. In these past nine years, I have learned so much about disrupting convention (our theme this year) and how it really does start with a woman. (our theme two years ago). I have learned that it means so much to make a difference. I have also been mindful that not having a charitable component in your life, makes a very sad life indeed!

That is the personal part. The professional aspects have been equally as rewarding! I used to be able to speak to 1000 Spring Breakers back when we were kind of a big deal (#OK) but put me in a room of 20 people, I would rather die. Now! Sad for you! I can talk to anyone about anything in any capacity!

I have also had the opportunity to become a true leader in my community. To make decisions that are best for a non profit organization is so ridiculously rewarding I can't even begin to explain. Being a Junior League member has given me the courage to speak up, to lead, to be an entrepreneur. It goes on and on.

And the friendships? From the girl who would purse her lips and say, I don't need any new friends I grew up here...the ladies I have met within the Junior League have changed my life.

Okay! This is starting to get sappy. The best part of it all is I am the super lucky chicken that also handles ALL the social media for the ENTIRE organization (The Association of Junior Leagues International). For me, it is bittersweet to take a pause on my local platform but I am as blessed as can be to see what happens on a daily basis with this amazing international organization.

Please make a difference somewhere. If not the Junior League, just spend it somewhere using your skills to help others. It will change your life. It does mine.

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Hammock Beach Resort‎ Women's Golf Day

One of my favorite stories I like to tell about my husband and I when we were dating is the time I heard him say..."Man, I would like to get into tennis again". So, like any newly dating idiot would do I ran down to my local tennis spot and took six weeks of lessons. Six Weeks. In January. Because for our first Valentine's Day, by golly I had the perfect gift...a new racket, some balls and me, Maria Sharapova, Jr.!

Racket was the operative word.

Our first tennis outing was over as quickly as it started. I am sure divorces happen on many a tennis court. It ended up with me crying and at some point I remember Steve saying HOW MUCH DID YOU PAY FOR THESE LESSONS, GO GET YOUR MONEY BACK!

Now, it's a pretty funny story to tell, but onwards!

I am gonna go golfing on Women's Golf Day at Hammock Beach Resort! This should be so much fun with my girlfriends. Even though my golf experience ranges from putting together golf tournaments to sitting in the cart drinking bloodys while reading you articles out of Mademoiselle...this time I am gonna play and succeed and prosper!

Women's Golf Day is a one day international event that encourages women to engage in the sport of golf. Whether it's their first time or they are a pro, this event is meant to bring women together in a fun, non-intimidating environment. Participants of all ages and skill levels are welcome.

Raises Hand!!!

Join Hammock Beach June 6th for a four-hour Women’s Golf Day experience. Begin with a lesson with our pros and end with a complimentary cocktail reception at our Conservatory Clubhouse. Everyone is invited, from beginner golfer, to those playing for fun!

*4-6pm Meet at the Conservatory – Golf pros will lead attendees in a lesson.

*6-7pm Put your skills to the test with a 3-hole round on the course.

*7-8pm Cocktail reception on the Clubhouse Terrace with light refreshments and hors d’oeuvres.

Price is $15 for Day guests and complimentary for Members & Overnight resort guests. Clubs will be provided, and attire is golf casual.

Reservations are required by Friday, June 2nd. Please call the Conservatory Clubhouse to make your reservation at 386.246.6710.

For more information visit:
http://bit.ly/2oESaRD

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Happy Mother's Day!

Good Morning!!
Happy Mother's Day!!

I want to go out today just so someone will say that to me!

I feel in some ways I have been waiting for this day my entire life! I am hoping that whatever stage your life is in, you have a wonderful Sunday. I read somewhere that “You are very likely an important person in a young person’s life. We are all parents in one way or another.” That is very resonating, isn’t it?!

Not to bring out the tiny violin, or cello (because I am relishing Truly Madly Guilty by Liane Morairity this week), but Mother's Day for almost two decades has meant nothing to me but bitter aggravation, and then recently anguish. I have become so far removed from considering this a day of celebration that it wasn't until late this week where I realized that I had to start thinking about aunt and nana gifts from Steve's mom and my sister from Lillian!

But, today has such an utter sense of do-over, renewal, first day of the rest of your life taste that I feel like a kid on the morning of Christmas!!! I know that the first Mother's Day is a little self serving but I look forward to the years that come where this day and Father's Day can be a time to celebrate our sheer family joy.

I am happy to report that my husband must of had every woman that even looked his way in the last couple of weeks express to him how divinely important a first Mother's Day is to not screw up. I see roses and he has been to the jeweler. Two explicit things that the old Darlynn rolled her eyes at...but this misting tears of joy, grinning fool that lays in bed before you writing this? Bring it!!! Ring the bell, darling! Bring the champagne!!

Allegedly this is a day of relax and rest but what makes me happy is to entertain! We are hosting brunch for my sister and mother in law. I couldn't be happier!

Thank you for allowing me to use this blog, along with my travel and my love of wine ...an opportunity to let you know how really good my life is today. I am living proof of good things happen to those who wait.

Xx

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It's Derby Day!

This may come as a surprise to you but I LOVE THE KENTUCKY DERBY! I love everything about it and I hope to see it in person one day! We usually go to the dog track to place our bets, although I am starting to enjoy the ease of Twin Spires! Last year, I finished out my last couple of weeks as President of the Junior League and we had an amazing Derby party! I was fortunate enough to buy a hat from Arturo Rios who has designed hats and costume for many famous people including Lady Gaga during her stint on American Horror Story. Look how my friends and I rocked the day!

As much as a fan as I am of the Derby, the outfits and the betting! I am so excited that the Kentucky Derby also means that 14 Hands releases exclusive wines for the Kentucky Derby!

14 Hands Winery continued their partnership with the “Run for the Roses,”™ for the fifth year running. Along with their 3rd vintage of the Limited Release Kentucky Derby® Red Blend (which is delicious), they also released a brand new wine, the 14 Hands 2016 Rosé, which I will be drinking while watching the race this weekend.

14 Hands Winery selections are offered nationwide.

14 Hands 2016 Rose

The 2016 Rosé freshens up the already impressive varietal line-up from 14 Hands Winery. This beautifully, light pink Syrah-based Rosé opens with delicate aromas of rose petals and rhubarb. Refreshing flavors of melon and strawberries are followed closely by a kick of citrus in the finish.

FLAVOR PROFILE
“This Syrah-based Rosé opens with delicate aromas of rose petals and rhubarb. Refreshing flavors of melon and strawberries are followed closely by a kick of citrus in the finish.” Keith Kenison, Winemaker

RECOMMENDED FOOD PAIRINGS
Perfect by the glass or with light salads like a classic Niçoise, grilled tuna, paella and salty cheeses.

Kentucky Derby Red Blend

This Limited Release Red Blend was crafted to commemorate 14 Hands Winery proud sponsorship of the Kentucky Derby®, the legendary Thoroughbred race that dates back to 1875. Serve this wine at your Kentucky Derby viewing party paired with party favorites like pulled pork sliders and beef tenderloin skewers.

FLAVOR PROFILE
“This opulent red blend showcases juicy Washington fruit character with aromas of blackberries and plums with subtle hints of chocolate and pepper. Flavors of dark berries and cocoa, supported by plush tannins, give way to a long-lasting, persistent finish.” Keith Kenison, Winemaker

RECOMMENDED FOOD PAIRINGS
Bacon-Wrapped Pork Tenderloin with Cherries, Deviled Eggs with Bacon, Italian Cured Meats and Cheese, Country Ham and Biscuits

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Perception of Time

I belong to this wonderful service called Morning Pics. It is probably one of the favorite parts of my day. Lately, it has made me think of what is important right now and what will matter when this day comes back around in pictures.

May 2015

July 2015

March 2017

The first two pictures came up recently and it gave me pause because in the first one 659 days ago was taken on our anniversary, right before I took a call from my adoption lawyer to deliver the biggest red flag news of our adoption we had been involved with for the past six months. Ruined my night. The adoption that never happened or the extortion heard round the world...whichever spin you would like to choose came exactly one month later.

A couple days later, I received my next memory, from 581 ago. Adoption failure in full effect, working on a pair of sisters that were homeless (which were pulled out from under us at the very last moment, of course) I was at my very lowest. I was terrified of the public, terrified of that "face" people would give me and taking my introvertness to a new level. I was in a very dark dark place. But, when a member of your tribe calls, you go and you help. It was appropriately pouring rain, I did what any brave girl would do: drank six beers, did what she needed me to do and had mini panic attacks that I would run into one of my NASCAR friends who were waiting to hear my good news and see pictures of well, nothing. I hauled booty the moment I could and was certain I would never feel better again.

There is a happy ending,

I took the last picture on Saturday of my sweet girl. It just gives me (and I hope you) the reminder that things do work out for a reason, none of those things were meant to be and the journey was worth it. The journey is always worth it. No matter if you are adopting a baby, struggling with your current job, hating your boyfriend or are in a happy go lucky place...the process to get there is in your hands and time is the key of perception. If you ask yourself, what is this gonna matter in ten days, ten months, ten years...the answer will set you free. See I just went all Oprah on you and you didn't even notice.

Till next time xo

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Our Winter Weekend Getaway at Orlando's Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress

A couple of weeks ago, my husband and I took the baby for our first staycation! Wow, packing for a baby is an art all in its own! I will for sure offer some tips at a later date but bring the kitchen sink and everything else! It was a fun new experience being on the road for a couple of days. Not that I was in the wilderness, I was at the fabulous Orlando Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress during their Winter Weekend Getaway promotion.

The best part of our stay is that I really had no desire to leave the property (except to a quick jaunt over to Disney Springs for some lunch and shopping, of course). At the Hyatt Grand Cypress, they had everything we needed on site for some much needed time away.

Meet Merlot

I can not say enough about the staff. I doubt it was pity, but they were so extra special to us as new parents. Tim, who has been a bellman at the Hyatt for almost thirty years gave us some great details about the property and a quick tour. He is also Merlot's keeper!

When we arrived, our room was almost ready so I was offered a glass of champagne and we went for a walk in the gardens to get our bearings. The property is gorgeous. Beautiful statues, great places to relax and majestic views.

The Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress does a lot of conference business and more than once I found myself feeling sorry for anyone who was missing out on a chance to go outside on this gorgeous day with all these pretty things to look at.

Lovely welcome with Champagne

Sadly for us, the weather wasn't the greatest during the whole time we were there, but we made the best of it.

We were able to go take a peek at the caves, waterfalls and all the different amenities while we walked. How is this amazingness only a short drive for us!

Located along the 1,000 feet of white sandy beach of private Lake Windsong, the free-flowing lagoon pool boasts 12 waterfalls, heated and non-heated pools, two whirlpools, new Water Slide Tower Pavilion, new children’s Rock Climbing Stations, new interactive Water Jet Splash Zone, rope bridge, walking paths, and expansive, wrap-around sundecks. New features complement the resort’s favorite activities including; S’mores pit, beach volleyball, tether ball, hammocks, watersports and marked jogging, walking, and biking trails.

Oh, the eating!! We ate three meals a day like kings and queens!

Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress features a variety of dining options inspired by Florida’s rich history. Guests can savor island-inspired Cuban cuisine at Hemingway’s or enjoy healthy, locally-sourced, farm-to-table cuisine throughout the day at LakeHouse. LakeHouse exquisitely blends contemporary dining with the comforts of home. Guests can also sip poolside cocktails at On the Rocks or enjoy small plates and specialty drinks at Trellises Lounge. Here are some of our favorites from the LakeHouse:

Winter in Florida is never a bad thing but if you are looking for an amazing stay close to all of Orlando attractions, you need to check them out!

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Are you ready for a weekend getaway this winter at Orlando’s favorite upscale resort? Rates start at $169 for deluxe accommodations at Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress. Guests enjoy #WinterWeekendGetaway rates on select dates throughout January and February by booking direct at www.grandcypress.regency.hyatt.com.

The award-winning, 1,500 acre Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress is located one mile from Walt Disney World® and close to Universal Orlando® and SeaWorld® Orlando with a host of amenities and activities including the full-service Marilyn Monroe Spa, 45 holes of Jack Nicklaus Signature Design golf and the award-winning Tennis and Racquet Club.

Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress is centrally located at One Grand Cypress Blvd., Orlando, Florida, 32836 with convenient access to Orlando International Airport and Interstate 4 off Exit 68 in Lake Buena Vista. For more information; call 407.239.1234; visit www.grandcypress.regency.hyatt.com; like Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress on Facebook; follow on Instagram and Twitter at @HRGrandCypress.

The award-winning, 1,500 acre Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress resort offers guests an upscale vacation experience also including:

Refresh and Relax

Guests seeking an hour or full day of pampering can enjoy the full-service Marilyn Monroe Spa. Featuring a vibrant, playful and relaxing retreat designed in the style of Marilyn’s California home, the Spa offers an indulgent menu with more than 100 treatment options including massage, body wraps, facials, and nail services, as well as hair and makeup styling.

Outdoor Activities

The resort’s signature lagoon pool boasts 12 waterfalls, heated and non-heated zones, two whirlpools, a rope bridge, walking paths and wrap-around sundecks that feature the Water Slide Tower Pavilion, Water Jet Splash Zone and Rock Climbing stations which complement resort classics including the nightly S’mores pit; beach volleyball; tether ball; marked jogging, walking, and biking trails and Hyatt StayFit™ fitness center.

Private Lake Windsong and Lagoon Pool

Guests are also welcome to paddle Lake Windsong in a kayak, canoe, sailboat, hydro bike, aqua cycle or paddleboat. And kids can make a splash at the Mermaid Academy or create souvenir sand art while participating in exciting activities at Camp Hyatt.

Golf and Tennis

Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress also features 45 holes of Jack Nicklaus Signature Design golf and the award-winning Tennis and Racquet Club.

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