Shout It From the Rooftops

Another amazing night with the guy.

Can't stop smiling.

Praying this lasts.

Enough said.

PS. Love you guys. Like seriously love you all something fierce. I know I mentioned it a couple times before and it's probably sounding mundane and repetitive, but it really does mean everything to me to have so much support from everyone. I feel like you guys are just as happy and excited as I am, and that's saying a whole lot! xoxo

Cursive

Am I the only one who feels like cursive is an ancient art?!?

Am I the only one who was forced to learn it in elementary school?!?

I went to private school, so if we failed to use it, we were given detention or an F or something.

Do they even teach it in school anymore!?!

Totally random, but I *LOVE* writing in cursive.

What about y'all?

If there's anything I've learned...

...it's that if you tell the truth, you don't have to worry about people catching up to your lies.

...it's that if you love with all of your heart, every dark cobwebby corner of it, you'll have no regrets.

...it's that sometimes, you have to be perceived as a selfish, self-centered person by others and do what's best for you.

...it's that the more confident you are with your decisions, the less approval you'll need from others.

...it's that sometimes, no matter how bad we want something or someone, we're just better off without them in our lives.

...it's that sometimes we hope and pray our friends stick around forever, but some are only meant to walk with us for a season of our lives.

...it's that you can do anything you put your mind to, no matter what anyone says to the contrary. Anything.

...it's that sometimes we have to take ourselves out of our comfort zones, into total solace to discover who we really are.

...it's that sometimes the things we thought we wanted, end up being the things we don't.

...it's to be grateful for the good, the bad, and the downright rip your heart out painful lessons in life. There is a lesson to be learned from each.

...it's that some of the most beautiful parts of ourselves come from some of the darkest, ugliest situations.

...it's that no matter how hard you try, you can't love someone into being the person you want them to be.

...it's that sometimes, no matter what you do, people aren't going to see the good in you. They'll only pick you apart and highlight the bad.

...it's that making what people think about you your business, is only going to result in disaster in your life. It truly doesn't matter.

...it's that people who have true self confidence and inner strength are a threat to those who don't.

...it's that inferior people are threatened by people who appear to have it all together.

...it's that even though we appear to have it all together, sometimes letting it all out and admitting we don't is okay.

...it's that no matter what you do, who you are, and where you've been, God always has a place for you in His kingdom.

...it's that forgiveness is one of the biggest blessings you can bestow upon someone or have bestowed upon you.

...it's that sometimes we have to forgive people who probably don't deserve it. We do it for us, not for them.

...it's that praying for your enemies is one of the best things you can do for your soul.

...it's that there is nothing more humbling, more encouraging, like getting on your knees, in the privacy of your own bedroom, and crying out to God with tears of joy or tears of pain.

...it's that sometimes, our greatest teachers are one another.

Just Call Me Emily

Okay for real, I feel like I need a final rose ceremony...but without the proposal, tears, knowing it's the end, and crazy emotions.

First things first.

I'm insanely proud of myself for putting myself out there and going on my first "real" date ever. Yeah, that's right...I've never truly dated. I've always been friends with someone and then gone on to date them later.

Anyway, let's get to it.

Date #1 with bike guy was fun. The conversation was flowing and after dinner we walked along the Potomac waterfront, got some ice cream, and chatted some more. It was a really great date, but I found out he's two years younger than me (well, technically about a year and a half) and a Democrat. No offense to my lovely Democrat friends, but that doesn't work for me. I'd love to be friends with him, but as someone told me recently, "You wouldn't want the consolation prize would you?" I figured he wouldn't message me again after our date, but naturally he played it cool, messaged me more than 24 hours later, and asked me out again. I feel terrible, but I played the "I'm super busy" thing. Date #2 would explain to y'all why.

Saturday rolls around and it's time for Date #2 with Match guy aka Mr. T. We've been talking through e-mail and text for about 3 weeks or so at this point, so we have a comfy foundation by the time our date rolls around. I was eagerly anticipating this date, because of the build up, but also because something told me it would be awesome.

So, we had talked about going to see RGIII and Andrew Luck at home in DC. The weather forecast looked a little shady, so we decided on bowling and ended up catching dinner after. The whole plain jane dinner, movies, drinks, etc. thing isn't my idea of a great time. I want to get out, go to a sporting event, do something active, off the beaten path, etc. So much more relaxed and a better way to showcase your personality. Anyway, needless to say, it went AMAZING. I had the absolute best time. Like, scary it was so great. We've made plans to go on a couple more dates, yes...a couple...and I couldn't be more excited.

Y'all have no idea.

What makes me happier more than anything is the literal cheering squad I have. I'm so blessed to have amazing people in my life who are so supportive and want to see me happy and with someone who treats me right. It means so much to me.

Who knows where this will go or where it will end up, but for now...this girl is wearing a permanent smile on her face.

DIY: Southern Women Canvas Print

When I spotted a canvas with this quote on Pinterest, I knew I had to re-create it myself.

So, that's what I did.

For under $20, I made this adorable project come to life.

Here's what you'll need:

-A canvas of basically any size. This one is 12x12 but 11x14 would be okay too.

-2 or 3 bottles of acrylic paint and a bottle of glitter coat if you want.

-A couple paintbrushes or sponge brushes.

-Sharpie Paint Pens or other brand in various colors.

-Wood shapes if desired.

-Glue

Here's what you'll do:

-I chose yellow and cream colored paint and blended the two together, starting with the yellow first. You can overlap them a bit, "wash" them a bit, and make it to your liking. There's no wrong way to paint the background :)

-Once that dries a bit, if you want to make it a little glittery, paint over the top with the glitter coat.

-You'll need to wait at least 30-45 minutes to start the writing if you've painted lightly.

-When you're ready to write, be sure you've practiced your writing style on some spare paper and that you've "primed" your paint pens.

-Write your quote, glue the wood shapes, and voila!

And for those of you who don't have the time or patience or if you just want to show me some love, you can order the one above or customize one to your liking at my NEW Etsy Shop, "Sweet Southern Comfort." That's right! Back in the day I had an Etsy shop before I became a Scentsy Consultant but shut it down after. I've missed crafting and have a huge desire to bring some of my Pinterest cravings to life. Now is the perfect time!

Now this is proudly hanging in my room. Love it!

Accountability Partner

Almost two weeks ago, I stumbled on this article from USA Today about Tim Tebow and his use of an accountability partner. The more and more I learn about him, the more and more I realize we're just simply destined. DESTINED I TELL YOU!

Okay, deep breaths...

Anyway, the notion of an accountability partner might be super unknown to many of you. For me, it's something I long for personally and absolutely pray for in my future husband. 

When I re-located near Gator country when I was younger, we became close friends with an incredible family. You can read more about the importance of this relationship here, but for purposes of this entry, you should know their walk with God was awe inspiring. Sure, I was raised in a Christian home, went to Christian school, went to Church, and all of the above, but nothing affected my faith as much as knowing them, more specifically Jay. I must have been about 12 or 13 when I really started paying attention and though they didn't have a perfect marriage, it was something I admired. I remember many conversations about how they had accountability partners who kept them aligned in their walk with God, encouraged them, and supported them during time of test and trial. These individuals were faithful servants of God, entirely devoted. They were almost a backbone for one another, a right hand, an extension of themselves. They often spent nights in prayer, in Bible Study, and in all around true, open hearted discussion about whatever temptations they were facing.

I'd envied that for many, many years & was always hoping somewhere along the line, I'd find that for myself. I'm still very, very hopeful.

I am not surprised that Tim has an accountability partner. He was raised in a devoutly Christian home where they have a deep understanding of the importance of such a thing. We all fall short, but knowing there is someone a phone call away who will listen to you, pray with you, encourage you, and share scripture with you is an incredible gift. 

There was a moment in my life where I was crying out for that. I was feeling a major temptation coming on, I knew it was wrong, I knew the damage it could do. I reached out to a "regular" friend, one who wasn't close in her walk, and she validated my immature, selfish thoughts as just fine. I made the mistake. I chose the wrong way. It was a choice entirely made by me, she did no wrong, but in that moment I had so desperately hoped she would shake me and say "Shannon, you know that's not a good idea. God would want more for you than that."

An accountability partner can mean the difference in making a right or wrong decision and staying on track with God or falling off. I know speaking personally, I would be so grateful to find a man whose had the blessing of an accountability partner. I'd be even more grateful to that friend, who had kept him, prayed for him and for his future.

It's sad we live in a day and age when these things are abnormal. I can imagine how much better things would be if we all had an accountability partner accompanying us through the trials of life.

Do you have an accountability partner or know someone who does?

Ladies Lunch

There's nothing I love more than traveling to see friends or when friends travel to see me.

I was so lucky this week that my darling Kate flew in for a quick visit to my town!

I picked her up at the airport and off we were to Reston Town Center for a delicious lunch and quick shopping trip.

We stopped at Uncle Julio's for a little hometown Mexican reunion :)

They have AWESOME "Swirly's" which consist of frozen sangria + frozen margarita.

We've decided Kate has swirly eyes in this picture. HAHA!

Delicious soup and salad.

I love that they have chunks of avocado in their tortilla soup.

I had to introduce Kate to South Moon Under, a semi-local totes adorbs boutique full of amazing clothes and cute home stuff. We could have bought half the store, but she walked out with a couple goodies that did the trick.

All we were missing were our little bestie girls, Piper and Cali...and more time.

LOVE spendin' time with my Kate! <3>

Pardon the Interruption...

Oh, happy day!

I interrupt my regularly scheduled blog posts to shout from the rooftops how incredibly blessed, lucky, and happy I am.

Yes, haters...it's one of your favorite blog posts ;)

First and foremost, I haven't been this happy in a very, very long time. I hesitate to say that because I'm in disbelief that this could very well be what normal feels like, and I want it to stay. Whenever this happens, I literally will get on my knees, in my room and thank God for the many blessings He's provided. It puts things in perspective. Crying out to God in a moment of desperation and praising Him when He's answered your prayers. Try it sometime.

Second, I've been unbelievably blessed to have been able to take August and the first few days of September off entirely. I don't take that for granted for a second and I'm even more blessed to say I've landed a new contract with the blessing of being able to work from home (how many times can I say blessed in one paragraph!?!). Pinch me. I know so many people yearn for an opportunity to work from home, so I'm grateful. I worked from home previously, when I transitioned from Charlotte to Orlando, and am so happy to be able to do it again. It's not as easy as one would think and takes a lot of focus, drive, and determination, but I'm thrilled to not have to deal with DC traffic and crazy gas prices for a few months. I'll be doing pretty much exactly what I did in Charlotte, working for a marketing company, training, staffing, and managing. It hasn't even hit me yet. So, truly blessed.

BTW, I'm having a total Tebow "Excited" moment with all that blessing going on...

My other happy story is totally rando. I decided to get out and enjoy this incredible weather we've been having and take a walk with Piper along the Potomac the other day. Not even two minutes into my walk, a super hottie stopped to talk to me and eventually asked me out. STOP THE PRESSES! Yes, I'm actually going on a REAL DATE! Tonight, we're going to dinner and surprisingly, I'm not all that nervous. I'm excited and crazy proud of myself for taking this huge step after debating about it for so long. We'll call him "Bike Guy." Bike Guy has a totally awesome government job that must have some of the most intriguing stories. Who knows if he's able to talk about them, but we shall see :)

Lastly, I have another date with a guy we'll call "Mr. T" Saturday night. Hollerrrrrr! Apparently I go from zero to sixty on the dating thing. In fairness, we've been talking back and forth for a few weeks, so it's been overdue. We were planning on catching RGIII and Andrew Luck toss around some pigskin at FedEx Field, but since weather is looking kinda iffy, we're planning on going to the driving range and/or going bowling. Love it!

I'm so grateful to all of my friends, family, and bloggie girls who have been cheering me on and who have shown me so much support over the past couple days since finding all of this awesomeness out. I love knowing there are good people in my corner who want nothing but for me to be happy again. You guys are the best!!!

So much to be happy about. So much to be thankful for.

Crafting Cravings

Since moving here, I've been DYING to do a little DIY.

I guess I have Pinterest to blame like the rest of you.

The problem is, I'm wanting to do a total makeover of my room furnishings. My only issue with that is where I'm living is temporary. I don't know how I feel about a total re-vamp of a space I won't be staying in. For me, it has to be the whole package, painting the walls and all. Never the less, I'm still just craving getting my hands on some canvas, Mod-Podge, ribbon, lace, burlap, paint, and anything else crafty.

Here's some things I'm craving to craft.

Magnetic Makeup Board

Mason Jar Soap Dispenser

Repurposed Spice Rack turned Nail Polish Rack

Glue on Canvas Print

Southern Girls Print

Silk Flower Lamp

~Found an AMAZING burlap shade at Target that would be perfection!~

Peace in the Jungle

Spa time is usually the highlight of an exotic vacation. My spa time in Mexico was an experience I will never forget and one I've been dying to share with you guys.

First thing's first. Whenever I travel somewhere, I always check TripAdvisor to find out the top things to do in that city, the best places to eat, and how my hotel ranks. If you travel or are planning an upcoming vacation, it will be come your bible.

In my search for things to do off the beaten path in Riviera Maya, I came across The Jungle Spa, which ranked the #8 thing to do in Maya and #2 in Puerto Morelos. I was intrigued and decided to investigate further. I was thrilled when I discovered their prices were so affordable. They charge $60 for their 90 minute experience and $80 for there 2 hour. My favorite part though is that The Jungle Spa is a non-profit organization, with 75% of the funds going right back to the local Mayan women giving the massages.

This photo of Jungle Spa is courtesy of TripAdvisor

So, J Squared and I decided to make appointments and make the trek about 30 minutes or so from our resort to The Jungle Spa. I'm not going to lie, I was a bit nervous hopping into a cab and heading into the "local" part of town, but everything was wonderful. After driving down a dirt road, we were lead to a jungle area and eagerly hopped out. Our cab driver refused to leave us there and come back, so it was extra relieving to know we wouldn't have to worry about being left in the jungle.

We were greeted by Sandra, an older American woman who founded The Jungle Spa. We sat around a long table in a grass covered hut and chatted for a while (we were early for our appointment), while we waited for the others to arrive. She later explained to us how she came to the area as a child and knew she wanted to someday live there. So, she moved over twenty years ago and established The Jungle Spa about 14 years ago. She actually lives on site, in the jungle, and I found it amazing she just surrendered her American comforts and way of life to live so simply. She explained how it took a lot of courage for these women to gather their children and leave their villages to come and work at the spa. Many of them suffered abuse at the hands of their husbands and had to learn how to take charge of their own lives. Really amazing.

When it was time for the massages, we all were encouraged to take a shot of a Mayan liquor, as the massages were described as "somewhere in between heaven and hell." The Mayan's believe in healing with their hands, so they intend to fix problematic areas or alleviate intense pains. Perfect for me as light, relaxation massages do nothing for me. 

I chose a 90 minute package with a deep tissue massage. I also had the choice of two wraps, one being an aloe and banana leaf and the other being cacao and banana leaf. I chose the aloe, let Sandra know that my most problematic areas were my neck, shoulders, and upper back, and that I wanted medium to firm pressure. She assured me I wasn't ready for firm, so she instructed my massuese, Lupita, to use medium, and I was on my way.

I was lead to a little dirt floor hut that was split into four little areas by curtains. I was thrilled to be in an "open air" palapa, with the ability to view the jungle surrounding me. I was instructed to disrobe and lay on the table. Lupita started right away with working her incredible magic on my neck and shoulders, causing me to breathe deeply as she pushed away some of my pains. Another incredible aspect, is that they believe your pressure points are central to your bodies overall functionality and from time to time, they become blocked. Lupita applied some intense pressure to the point between my thumb and index finger as well as my left arm. Each time she did this, I felt an intense burst of energy throughout my body. No lie. It was incredible. What I found so amazing is that without prior instruction, she went right to an area on my neck about the size of a pencil eraser that has given me issues since a car accident 8 years ago. I was in awe as she just knew what areas to guide her healing hands to. She even went and got a Mayan herb that is used as an anti inflammatory, rubbed it on my bad shoulder, and put a hot towel over it twice. LOVED that! Mayan massage also includes abdominal massage, which is something we are not accustomed to in the states. I was a little nervous about this at first, but it was so gentle and comfortable when it was done.

When my massage concluded, it was time for my aloe wrap. Lupita cut fresh aloe from the jungle and literally squeezed it all over my sunburned and thirsty skin. It was the most awesome feeling and being topped off with banana leaves was even more so. You'd think you would have been all slimy, but your skin just absorbs it right in after a few minutes.

When the experience was over, I truly felt as relaxed and pain free as I've ever felt. It was a total euphoria. As others were finished and we all re-convened, they had similar sentiments. It was an incredible experience that I wish I could get again back in the states. The left side of my body is the one that causes me the most pain and it's felt ten times better since having my Mayan massage. Now of course, my right side is bothering me since it didn't get the same intense attention. Sounds like another trip to paradise should be planned :)

The moral of the story here is sometimes you have to step out of your comfort zone to experience some of the most incredible things the world has to offer. It wasn't the Ritz Carlton with fancy robes, candles, and Roman tubs, but it was an experience I'll never forget and one I yearn to have again.

What I'm Loving

I'm loving this infinity scarf I bought from Gathered in the Kitchen on Etsy.

I can't wait to wear it as Fall quickly approaches.

BTW...she has some of the CUTEST pillows on the planet.

LOVE this colorful video, set to one of my favorite songs.

I'm loving that I *FINALLY* got my hands on these pair of Costa sunglasses. These things are a Southern staple since they are specially formulated for being on the water. When I went to The Players in Ponte Vedra this year, about 90% of the guys sittin' on the 17th with us had them. Croakies, popped polos, boat shoes, and all. LOVED IT! Anyway, these things are CRAZY clear. I have the 580p lenses which literally makes it feel like I have nothing on at all. Everything is crystal clear and yellow light is completely blocked out. I had no idea they were that awesome. They'll be perfectly paired with my matching Lilly croakies and koozie.

I'm loving that my old roomie and I went by our old place, back where it all began. It felt so strange to be back there, like really, really foreign. It's only been 2.5 years since I left, but when I did, I was a newlywed and hopping in a car to drive to Texas with my then husband. We were surrounded in mounds of snow and so hopeful for what the future held. Incredible how things change. If anything, it's an awesome reminder of how hard I fought to get back here after everything was taken from me.

I love this scarf I snagged for $6.99 on mega sale at Urban Outfitters in Georgetown. It's totally sold out online, but I love that there are so many colors in it, it's oversized, and I'll be able to wear it with virtually anything. Score.

I've been searching high and low for a spice rack so I can organize my nail polishes. I'm loving that I finally found one at Cost Plus World Market for $9.99. It matches my room perfectly, though I've already filled it and will need another!

I am NOT loving how AWFUL Lilly Pulitzer handled the first day of their online sale. I am really funny about business practices and man oh man, were they a disaster. They hyped up this sale like crazy, but when 9am struck, the website was crashed. They kept trying to  get it back and kept giving us various expected times for it to work, to no avail. If you're not a Lilly lover, you don't understand, but people take off work and re-arrange their schedules just to buy from this sale. Eventually, it worked...sorta.

So, I AM loving that I was able to snag all of this for $100...

The Biaocchi Pant & the Briar Skirt

Feather Tank & Paley Cardigan

What sort of sweet things are you guys loving this Wednesday?

What's Done Is Done

I love The Script.

Like, seriously love them.

They and Mat Kearney were my constant companions when I first moved to DC in 2009.

I can't wait until they release their new album.

This song has been stuck in my head for the past couple days.

Enjoy.

"What's done is done. You can't reverse the bullet from the gun."

Flying Solo

You know what makes me sad? When people are shocked that you're doing things solo.

We live in a society where it seems against the norm to not move in packs. It's not normal to go to a movie by yourself, to eat dinner at a restaurant by yourself, to travel by yourself, or go to a concert by yourself.

Why?

The final two nights of my time in Mexico was purposefully planned for me to fly solo, to have some time among the beautiful blue waters and powder sand to reflect. Yes, I made reservations for some of the fanciest restaurants on the resort for dinner for one. I laid out by the pool alone. I shopped the resort chotchky shops by myself.

It felt good.

There was a time in my life where my anxiety got in the way of me doing anything alone. In high school, I couldn't even walk into the lunch room alone without feeling like I would have an overwhelming panic attack. I avoided it like a plague. Eventually, I overcame all of that and I can honestly only imagine all I would have missed out on had I decided to only do things with companionship. The entire year of 2008 would have been basically wiped off the map, a year that taught me so much about myself.

I've found that in moments of solitude, we learn the most about who we are. We are able to get in touch with our inner core and push ourselves to do things we never thought imaginable. In a world when we find it almost impossible for alone time with work and family commitments, I cherish the moments like I had this past week. I honestly think those who poke at people who do things on their own are the ones who have the most insecurity about themselves. It takes a secure, confident, and contented person to be able to live life without fear of going against the grain and flying solo.

If you've never taken the time to do something wonderful on your own, what doors could it open for you? If you have, what's the greatest thing you've done for yourself solo and how did it impact your overall self?

Easy On the Eyes

I love playing with my camera and finding pretty things to take pictures of. While in Mexico, that wasn't so hard to do. Here are a few of my favorite shots of gorgeous things I saw during the week.

More Mexico Memories

 Day Two Continued

In case you're wondering, I'm choosing not to post pictures of "J Squared" on my blog. No, I didn't vacay alone but with her job, bikini pictures probably would make things a little uncomfortable.

All the way down the beach at one of the other resorts on the property.

Over to the far left, out of sight is where I had my "wedding."

How crazy is that water!?!?

Viva la Mexico!

This is how I roll.

Double fistin' Jack & Coke!

Part of the massive adult pool @ Maya Palace.

Getting ready for dinner @ the steakhouse, taking pictures in our courtyard.

Naturally, Barcelo is a huge spot for destination weddings. This adorable little walkway is where the bride takes her final steps before she is a Mrs. Precious.

Love the colors in this picture.

Compared to shots from last time, I look so relaxed and happy.

Before, I was in turmoil and had reason to believe something awful was happening back home.

Not this time!

My Week in Paradise, Part One

Day Two

Ernesto didn't foil our plans for fun in the sun. Though night one was full of hard rain, the next day was just crazy windy. We started the day out at the adult pool in total chill mode and then later moved to the big pool, where all the action happens.

Who wouldn't want these in pool loungers at their house!?!

About to catch some of the water volleyball action in the Olympic pool.

La Playa!

I loved these heart sculptures.

One thing I adore about Barcelo is all of the trendy art and style in the buildings.

I'd give anything to be sitting there again curled up with a good book.

One of the many pool bars. On the other side was the swim up bar!

So pretty, though super ouchie on the feet ;)

Couldn't go anywhere without my new koozie.

Our resort is in the background.

I have an obsession with crooked pictures.

I love that J Squared took this pic on her own :)

My favorite. So. Me.

I've said it before, but Barcelo really has incredible properties. This one, Barcelo Maya Palace Deluxe is just one resort of five on the property. It's the nicest one and by staying there, you get to dine at all of the other resorts as well and sip top shelf booze. That's five huge pool complexes, over twenty restaurants, an insane amount of buffets, and all of the pool bars one can imagine. If you're thinking of treating yourself to a vacation soon, seriously consider going to Barcelo. They have properties all over the world, specializing in ones located in Spain. In a few months, you'll see me all over several of their websites :)