Schmaltzy Sunday

I am interrupting my own Schmaltzy Sunday schedule because I've had a heavy heart today. 

Christmas 2008

My Dearest, Mamaw, Papaw and Yours Truly

First of all, I am thankful that the Lord has saved my soul and that He sent His Son to die on the cross so that I could have eternal life. This affords me comfort in knowing that I will see my loved ones again in Glory.

I spent my afternoon at Papaw and Mamaw's house today.  As you may recall from last week's post, my Papaw isn't in the best of health right now.   As I was at their house today, I was forcing my brain to act as a sponge and really let the conversation soak into my mind.  I want to remember this time.  I want to look back and reflect on it. 

Although Papaw didn't know who I was or that I was even at the house to visit, I still had an enjoyable time with Mamaw.  Last week while visiting, there were several family members and friends who stopped by to visit.  However today, it was just Mamaw and me.  I loved it, definitely a moment I will cherish.  We sat at her kitchen table drinking coffee and talking about flowers, gardening, being girly (I'm more the girly one than she is, she's perfectly simple) and how a marriage should be 50/50 in effort and how you should always give and take. 

Earlier in my visit, Mamaw had made mention that even though Papaw was in the next room sleeping, she felt as if she was living alone.  She actually stated that she felt that "...The Good Lord is preparing me for what is to come."  This is something about that has stuck with me all day.  It keeps repeating in my mind, my heart breaks for her. 

I can't help but wonder what she will do after Papaw has taken his first breath in the presence of His Lord and leaves her behind?  I know that she will be OK.  She has a huge family and a church family all of whom will be by her side.  She has her quilting and gardening hobbies to keep her busy as well.  But its the time after everyone else has gone home and she's caught up on her quilting and gardening....when she's sitting at home alone listening to the radio with only her thoughts to keep her company that breaks my heart.  

There isn't a thing in this world that I would give for the time I spent today with Mamaw and Papaw.  I want to ask again that everyone please keep my Papaw in your prayers.  He is not doing well at all, he has lived a long and full life, but it is heartbreaking to see him slipping away so quickly.  In addition to Papaw, please keep Mamaw in your prayers too.  She's been the primary caregiver and is to the point where outside assistance is necessary to aid with Papaw.  She's slowly watching her husband of 64.8 years slipping away from her.  Pray for peace, for comfort, for understanding. 

Skidumpdump Saturday

Some Things
I Love...

God, Cheesy Romance with My Dearest,  My Precious Family, 

Birken, Mimi LaRue, Going on Picnics,

Taking Photos, Tulips, and Cupcakes.

Adventures of Pumpkinhead, Ruby Begonia, Skunktoe & Bug

The Adventures

of

PunkinHead, Ruby Begonia

SkunkToe & Bug

     Once upon a time in a land of towering mountains and rolling hills, begins a spectacular story starring a brood of four, namely: PunkinHead, Ruby Begonia, SkunkToe and Bug.  Let me take a moment to introduce you to each of of these kiddos.

     PunkinHead is the eldest. He is an outdoors man, a hunter, a lover of good food, and a seeker of wild and crazy fun.  He is a kind-hearted fellow who enjoys helping others.  He despises school and loathes green beans with a passion.  He’s smart, but more so in the common sense area than the book-smart area.  He’s never in a hurry and prefers to ride in the slow lane of life.  He loves his younger sisters, but welcomes any moment to torture and embarrass them to no end. 

     Ruby Begonia is the next in chronological age, but the eldest girl.  Ruby Begonia likes all things girly, ruffly, and pretty.  However, she isn’t afraid to get dirty, well, sometimes but only when absolutely necessary and only if she’s not dressed in her good clothes.  She is the opposite of PunkinHead in that she has book smarts but lacks common sense.  She also tends to be shy in new situations and meeting new people.  If you ask her siblings they would say she is “bossy.”  They don’t understand that just because she follows rules and she doesn’t like to see her siblings get in trouble (and will remind them to do what they were asked), does not constitute her as being bossy.  She’s responsible.  She’s a protector of her siblings.  

     SkunkToe is a spitfire.  She has a heart of gold, but will be the first to set you straight if acting out of line.  She loves to talk and sometimes is inclined to be a tidbit nosey; both of which tends to get her in a lot of messes.  She loves to learn and enjoys teaching others.  She lives to play softball and likes to get dirty regardless of whether she is in her good or bad clothes.  She loves to sing, even make up her own songs which she proudly belts at the top of her lungs.  She loves to write and then read the story/poem to anyone willing to listen.  She’s always trying on a new hobby for size.  She’s dramatic.  She’s emotional.  She may be petite in stature, but her larger-than-life personality picks up the slack.

     Last, but definitely not the least, is Bug.  Although she’s the baby of the brood, she is tall, lanky and has a head of dirty-blond hair.  She loves animals (especially dogs and horses.)  She's a friendly girl and has never met a stranger.  She is artsy and has an imagination that is out of this world.  She laughs and cracks jokes all the time. She loves cartoons, coffee and hanging aluminum foil on her wall.  She also loves to wave at her janitor anytime she may (or may not) see him/her.  Like her oldest sister, Ruby Begonia, Bug plays the piano beautifully where she can read music and play by ear.  She is borderline tomboy.  She enjoys going squirrel hunting with PunkinHead and getting as dirty as humanly possible.

     While these kids take pleasure in aggravating and making fun of each other at the end of the day they love one another unconditionally.  These four have had their fights, jokes, moments of camaraderie and individuality, mishaps and misfortunes all of which will be chronicled right here on What a Wonderful World.  Please stay tuned to learn more about this unique family as their childhood (and some adulthood) is displayed for all the world to see.

What I Wore - #7

~THURSDAY~

*I was off work so I got to dress down.  YAY!*

Jacket - Walmart clearance

Tank - Gap

Pants - Target

Shoes - Shox (V-Day gift from My Dearest)

~SATURDAY~ 

*Working at Humanité*

Grey with White Polka Dots Dress - Goodwill

Cardi - Old Navy

Leggings - Walmart

Rosette Boots - Belk

~SUNDAY~ 

Orange and White Dress - Goodwill

Cropped Cardi - White House Black Market (consigned)

Brown Flip Flops - Nine West (Ross)

Brown Belt - A&F (consigned)

Necklace - Walmart

~MONDAY~ 

B&W Stripped Shirt - Walmart

Skirt - Old Navy

Black Flats - Humanité

Grey Hat - Burke's (I paid $1.80 and I made the little rosette.)

~TUESDAY~ 

Floral Dress - Ross (last year's Easter Dress)

Green Cardi - Old Navy

Black Flats - Humanité

Pink Necklace - Walmart

Silver Bracelet - Silpada

(I am linking with Lindsey at The Pleated Poppy.)

Tip du jour

Tip #2

Always make sure the lid to your washing machine is CLOSED!

As a senior in college, I had my grandma's old school washing machine and dryer in my apartment.  It was definitely a blessing that I didn't have to go to the laundry mat, or go to campus and use one of the dorms laundry rooms.  But considering the fact that the washing machine was as ancient as it was....it lacked some of the conveniences of the newer models. 

The one main convenience that it was lacking was that regardless of whether or not the lid was closed, it would still start its cycle as soon as it is full.

One particular day, I had started my washing machine.  I put in my detergent, started the water and ran upstairs to get my load of laundry.  However, I got slightly sidetracked and about 20-30 minutes later I finally made it back downstairs with my load of laundry. 

Ummmm, it was bubbly mess!  Soap suds were everywhere!  It covered the floor of my kitchen.   I did stress out a little because I had no idea what to do to get the suds out of the kitchen.  I ended up sweeping them outside my back door onto the porch.  Apparently, I hadn't shut the washer lid, in its old school-ness, the machine began churning without clothes.  The suds weren't contained inside the washer by the lid so they decided to move on up and out of the basin.

I've learned my lesson and luckily for me technology has advanced so that now a washer won't churn until the lid is closed.  I would have loved that technology that bubbly day in east TN. 

There is POWER in Prayer

Saturday I posted about my BFF's (Robyn) two-year-old son, Andy.  (To see the post click here.)

I just received this text a moment ago from Robyn's sister, Mandi:

"Andy is HEALED and going home!

He had a head injury on Wednesday that is now HEALED. He has nothing in/on his brain that would've caused this to happen. The Good Lord has answered prayers!"

Robyn and her sweet little Andy. 

(I love how you can see the relief and happiness all over Robyn's face.)

 I am so overjoyed at this very moment, I actually have tears streaming down my face and lump in my throat because I am so happy and so relieved for Robyn and David.  I know we serve a Mighty and Powerful God and that He alone is the Great Physician.  It is moments like this that I want to scream from the mountaintop of His great love His Promise to answer our prayers.  My God ROCKS....and little Andy is the living, HEALTHY proof!

Thank you again to all of you who helped me lift Andy, Robyn, David and their families up in prayer this week.  Its amazing what can happen when we're on our knees before our Lord and Savior!  There is Power in Prayer!

Schmaltzy Sunday

I was going to write about my mom today. However, after spending the afternoon with my papaw, who is in failing health. I decided that I should write about him. (Sorry Moma, next week.)

On June 28, 1915, Grady Montgomery Holland was born to Jerry & Hettie Holland, farmers and gardeners and "folks that took care of what they had."  World War 1 had been well underway as it began in 1914, with three years left to go. Woodrow Wilson was President.

Growing up in Franklin, life was slow, but hard.  In a world of farming, gardening and manual labor, there was always something for Papaw and his five siblings to do around the house.  In 1929, life got even harder. The stock market crashed which led the nation and eventually the world into what we know as The Great Depression.  Papaw was 14.  The nation emerges from the Depression in 1939.  But its celebration was short lived as Hitler invaded Poland, thus the beginnings of World War II.  Papaw was 24.

In 1942, Papaw was drafted to serve in WWII.  He trained at Fort Benning then he was able to come back to Franklin for a 30-day furlow.  It was 1943.  While he was home, he met a man who invited him over for supper and to "make music" at his house.  Papaw went and met Betty Stewman, one of man's daughters.  (She is now referred to as Mamaw.)  At the end of the month, Papaw went to New York where he and his fellow soldiers sailed to England, a sail of 21 days.

While in the Army, Papaw was a sharp-shooter.  His friend, Cotton, was the driver of his tank.  They were best friends while serving.  We all have heard many stories of their friendship, camaraderie and mischief. Cotton is a familiar name in Papaw's house.  Papaw served in Germany from 1942-1945 when the war ended.

Papaw & Mamaw got married after the war, they moved around to here and there, and settled into Franklin to begin their family.  Together they have four children: Daddy, Randy, Marianna, & Jesse and their family has continued to grow.  Papaw & Mamaw have 4 children, 12 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren, all because two people fell in love. We are all thankful for the investment that these two have poured into the life of our family. To us, they are our Legacy.

Throughout his 95.5 years, Papaw has seen 22 different men take the office of the President of the United States (16 of which he was able to vote.)

Recently, on Veteran's Day 2010, Papaw was presented with his medal he had earned while in service.

After WWII, Papaw had the option of staying longer to receive his medals or to go home. As many others, he opted to go home, to see his family and live a civilian life.   Finally, 64 years later, Papaw was presented with five medals. He was presented with the flag that had flown over the State Capitol on behalf of the North Carolina State Congressman, Heath Shuler.

Several of our family were able to make it and watch on as Papaw accepted his medals and flag. It was a proud moment to be able to watch the man who has invested into all of us in so many ways receive something that is to be valued, appreciated, and respected.

Today, Papaw is in failing health.  Matt and I had a visit with him this afternoon.  He was doing relatively well considering he is 95 years old, but since Christmas he has really gone down hill.  He is pretty much bedridden at this time and it looks as if Hospice will be coming in this week to help Mamaw with the lifting, moving around, etc that Mamaw is struggling to do on her own.  I know it is only a matter of time as to when Papaw will be taking his last breath here on earth and his first in the presence of our Lord.  But in the meantime, any prayers for his comfort and Mamaw's strength would greatly be appreciated. 

As a family, we are so proud of Papaw, regardless to what he is to each of us: Husband, Daddy, Papaw.

A couple years ago on a trip to the top of the mountain.

Papaw and I at Nancy & Brandon's Bridal Shower

Papaw and Mamaw at Nancy's wedding.

Veteran's Day about 3-4 years ago.

Veteran's Day 2010

Mom & Papaw

Papaw and I at the Parade

Obviously, this is Papaw's 93rd Birthday cake.

(That's Mamaw & Papaw's picture when they were younger on the Right.)

(I must give credit to my sister, Nancy, for the majority of this post.  Nancy already had Papaw's life chronicled on her blog, so I borrowed from her.  You may see her posts here.)

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(Schmaltzy Sunday is where I write with "cheesy sentiment" about a person, place or thing that means a whole-heck-of-a-bunch to me. More than likely this person, place or thing has helped to mold me into the person I am today. To find out more on what Schmaltzy Sundays are about, read this post. )

Skidumpdump Saturday

Today, well actually since Thursday, a special little boy and his family have been on my heart and I've lifted countless prayers up for them.

Little Andy is my BFF's two year old son.  I received a prayer chain Thursday afternoon stating that Andy had been taken to the hospital due to a hemorrhage on his brain.  He has spent the last few days in PICU as doctor continue to run tests on him to see if they can find the cause of the bleeding.

Thursday the doctors told them that the blood could take 6-12 months to be reabsorbed by the body.  However, in Friday's CT, the blood wasn't as big as it was on Thursday evening.  The doctors may have been shocked, but I know that it was due to all of the prayers that were being lifted up for little Andy.

In an update from the family today, little Andy has been sluggish and slept most of the day.  The doctors stated that they were as baffled as the rest of the family was.  They are going to keep him in the PICU for now.  He is scheduled for an MRI on Monday, they are just hoping that he will be awake long enough to do so. 

Please help me lift Robyn, her husband David, and little Andy in your prayers.  Pray for health and comfort for Andy; strength and peace for Robyn & David and their extended families.  They know the Lord is the Greatest Physician and He can do miracles.  They have their faith in Him that He will see them through this difficult time.  

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I will write with “nonsensical talk randomblings” about things I’ve heard, tried, learned, etc. There will not be any rhyme or reason to these postings. The sky is the limit!

What I Wore - #6

~THURSDAY~

Dress - J. Crew (Christmas gift from my future SIL)

Cardi - Gap

Leather Boots - Peebles

~FRIDAY~

Track Jacket - Walmart

Tank - Walmart

Jeans - Old Navy

~SATURDAY~

*Working at Humanité*

Floral Dress - Humanité (its really a skirt but I like it as a dress)

Navy Leggings - Walmart

Boots - Humanité

Navy Cardi - Peebles

Check out my hair....I like it today!

Its amazing what my hair can look like when I actually fix it!

~MONDAY~

Grey Dress - A Goodwill Find ($5)

Cropped Blue Cardi - Old Navy

Denim Flats - Walmart clearance

~TUESDAY~

(I apologize now for the crappy photo, I forgot the flash was on

and the battery went dead after this pic.  So what you see is what you get.)

Orange-Red Dress - NY & Co (Goodwill $5)

Mustard Ruffle Cardi - Kmart (clearance)

Brown Belt - A&F (Sassy Girl Consignment - $5)

Necklace - Walmart (clearance $3 - which you cannot see in this pic.)

Brown Boots - Humanité

(I am linking up with Lindsey at The Pleated Poppy.)

Tip du jour

Tip #1
Do not pour flammables on or near open flames/hot coals.  Lesson learned the hard way.

Diesel Fuel Supplement (Highly Flammable)

+

Wood burning stove (requires wood only)

=

My right hand after being flame-kissed by the fire

Being that this coming Sunday will mark one year since I figured what better tip to start off my Tip du jour. 

Take it from me I know from experience that no one should ever play with fire, never have flammables near fire, do not purposely pour flammables onto hot coals or open flame, do not ever believe that for a moment you are smart than a fire.

Long story short, it hurts badly when you are burned.  So leave fire building to someone who knows what they are doing, which obviously is not me.  Therefore, I will never attempt building a fire again with the aid of a flammable. 

If you want to read more about my unfortunate and very poor decision of trying to start a fire with diesel fuel supplement, you can read it here. 

Valentine's Day

Everyday is a Valentine's Day with My Sunshine,

but it's fun to get wrapped up in the cliche' holiday designated for love.

My Sunshine surprised me with sweet gifts (and he spoiled me too much as he usually does.)

Oakley Sunnies

New Tennies and Socks

(Its ironic that just this past Friday I was browsing online for a new pair of shox.  He gets me.)

My Valentine gift to My Sunshine

New Golf Shirt

New Half-Zip

(FYI -- Blackrock Outdoor Co. in Sylva is 30% store wide.  They even have some fall/winter items that are 40%.)

Florida Hoodie

(This was his initial gift, however, it didn't arrive on time, so he will get it tomorrow when it arrives.

Don't worry - he doesn't always read my blog, so I'm not worried that he will see this before he gets the gift.)

Today was a great day, but it would have been a great day regardless of whether gifts were exchanged or not.  The gifts have no bearing on my love for Matt and I know that the gifts doesn't matter to him either.  We do not base our love on material things.  We have so much in each other.  We compliment each other in the best ways, he is strong where I am weak and vice versa.

I am so blessed to have such a wonderful man in my life. 

I love you to the moon and back times infinity.

Schmaltzy Sunday

Yours Truly, Moma & Daddy

Today's cheesy sentiment is devoted to Gary Holland, I like to call him Daddy.  

[Oh good gracious, my eyes welled up when I typed out the first sentence!  I have a strong feeling that this is going to be the case when I write my Schmaltzy Sunday posts.  Note to self:  1) write when no one else is around, 2) keep a box of Kleenex handy.]

I know that I will never give an accurate description of my daddy; for who he is, what he stands for, and the strong foundation where he is firmly planted.  But if I can give a slight glimpse of what he is to me, I know in my heart that you too will think he's just as wonderful as I do. 

Gary was the firstborn son to a miner and a homemaker in the early 50's.   He grew up in the mountains of North Carolina where he went to school and worked to help his family. 

Sometime in the mid 70's he met an outgoing city girl named Nancy with whom he fell in love.  In 1977, Gary and Nancy were married.   They built a great little home nestled in Eden Valley where they started their family.  In 1979 they welcomed a little boy, named David.  In 1981, they welcome their first daughter, Yours Truly.  Then in 1984, Gary welcomed another daughter, Nancy.   (Being that I was born by this time, I will now refer to Gary as Daddy.)  Not only was Daddy celebrating a new life into his family, he was also mourning the death of his wife, who died during child birth. 

During this time, Daddy was working as a Sheriff's deputy.  He was doing a fine job of taking care of his home and three children with the help of family and friends.  While working as a deputy, he met a snazzy little redhead who worked for the County, enter Edith.  In 1987, Daddy and Edith's sparks of interest turned into a marriage. 

By now, Daddy had left the Sheriff's Department and went into business for himself as a rock mason.  For the next 20+ years he had his own business building foundations and turning hard cold stones into masterpieces.  

In the mid-90's, Daddy had an opportunity to assist with drilling as well in Honduras with a team from Western NC.  After spending countless hours in prayer, he felt led to go.  Thus started a missions wildfire in our home.  Thank you Lord!

Since the 90's Daddy has led, participated, and prayed for countless mission trips to Honduras and Alaska to build churches, Sunday School rooms, soup kitchens, etc.  He has also been an active member of the NC Baptist Men Disaster Relief where he has responded to countless natural disasters throughout NC and other states where he has gutted homes, cut brush, fed the ones who lost homes, etc. 

In 2005, Daddy and Moma (Edith) were called to Gulfport, MS along with two other couples, to lead in the clean-up project after Hurricane Katrina.  They spent the next 28 months aiding in the rebuilding/repairing of over 700 homes and touched many lives --- all in the name of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. 

In August 2006, while Daddy and Moma were still in Gulfport serving the Lord, they welcomed their granddaughter, David's first child, into the world.  Less than 5 weeks later, they were mourning the death of David who unexpectedly passed away. 

I've given this brief history to say this: over the last 26 years, regardless of whether Daddy was celebrating birthdays, a win for a ball team, a child accepting Christ as their Savior, a baptism, graduations, marriages, anniversaries, new grandchildren OR whether Daddy was mourning in the loss of loved ones, a hard time in life in general -- REGARDLESS, he ALWAYS thanked the Lord for the blessings He has bestowed upon him, and rejoiced in knowing that He will always meet his needs and He will never forsake him.

I'm sure that some of Daddy's greying hair is partly due to raising me, I was one of four, so I'm not taking all the blame.  Plus, I like to think that I was "the good child"  hahaha.  I will cop to the fact that I'm sure I made parenting difficult at some point.  

Daddy has taught me so many different things, particularly:  to be a hard worker, be thankful for things I have, work for the things I want but don't need, thank the Lord in the good times and bad, to give back to others who may be less fortunate than myself.    He's been my go-to with any math or word problem I've ever had or will have....he's smart like that.  He's taught me to drive a car, swim, and how to wash dried scrambled eggs from pans he brought back from the deer camp. 

He has tried to teach me to drive a stick shift, how to throw a softball and to get in position for batting.  He was not successful.  However, I believe it was more of the student's fault than his. 

I believe that my Daddy is the perfect example of a Servant of the Lord. My prayer is that my (future) husband will be the mighty fortress and foundation of the family as my Daddy has been in my life.   One thing that I hope to show to my family, friends, coworkers, and the random stranger is that if I am only 10% of the Godly Christian (wo)man that my Daddy is, then I know I will make a difference in someones life; maybe even be a blessing to someone.

I don't care what anyone says, my Daddy ROCKS MY SOCKS OFF!

back row:  Yours Truly, Brandon (BIL), Natasha (SIL), Nancy

front row:  Moma (holding McKenzie), Daddy (holding Lucas)

Day out with Thomas.  Daddy, Lucas, McKenzie & Moma

Nancy's wedding day.  Lucas and Daddy

In Gulfport for a visit, McKenzie and Daddy

Nancy & Brandon's luau Wedding Shower, Lucas, Moma, McKenzie & Daddy

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(Schmaltzy Sunday is where I write with "cheesy sentiment" about a person, place or thing that means a whole-heck-of-a-bunch to me.  More than likely this person, place or thing has helped to mold me into the person I am today.  To find out more on what Schmaltzy Sundays are about, read this post. )

Skidumpdump Saturday

Today's randombling is probably going to make your head spin, just like mine does.  haha   I believe I'll utilize the bullet system and just mention some of the things on my mind.

• I applied to Western Carolina University yesterday.  I'm not worried about getting in, I'm concerned with how I am going to pay for it.
• Really wish I didn't drink the smoothie this morning.  Milk products and lactose intolerant doesn't mix well together.
• My books from Barnes and Noble arrived - I can't wait to start reading!  (The Pioneer Woman: Black Heels to Tractor Wheels - A Love Story and The Pioneer Woman Cooks: Recipes from an Accidental Country Girl.)
• It's so pretty outside.  Wish I was going on a hike or something....
• Trying to decide what I'll paint at Claymates tonight while hanging out with mi amiga, Clarissa.
• What will I wear to church tomorrow?  This always seems to always be a Saturday dilemma.
• I miss my brother, David.  I just saw some guy out the window who sorta looked like him.  I don't want to forget.
• Should I go to the gym?  I still have a cough but I've really gotta work on the lifestyle change...I'm doing good thus far 22lbs down!  *squeal*
• I want to plant a small garden....where in the world do I start???????  This will probably be a series of posts if I so attempt the project!
• I ate gator tail last night.  It was chewy.  OK, but not my favorite. 

These are just some of the things running through my mind right now...lots of random things I know.  But it is what it is.  Just think, this is only the things running through my mind within a 5 minute time frame.  Imagine what its like to be in my head ALL DAY LONG!  Sometimes even I wonder how I have enough sense about me to even form words. 

O-Well!  Have a great day!

  

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What is Skidumpdump?

Skidumpdump is defined as: "nonsensical talk randomblings."

What is a randombling?

Randombling is defined as: "a combination of the word random and rambling. May be used as a noun or a verb. Occasionally used to categorize random musing that do not deal with a specific subject."

What am I going to post about on Skidumpdump Saturdays?

I will write with “nonsensical talk randomblings” about things I’ve heard, tried, learned, etc. There will not be any rhyme or reason to these postings.  The sky is the limit!

This Blog Needs Organization!

I've been trying to write this post for the past month or so! I’ll work on it a little bit here and there, I’ll save it and come back to it later. Seems I’ve been doing this for an eternity. I’ve made it a point that I will complete this post TODAY!

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Since beginning the “What I Wore Wednesday” postings, I’ve been pondering the idea that my blog needs to be a little more organized in the way of my posting for other days of the week. I hope that it will help me to make my posting a priority, of sorts, and will aide in keeping my readers (all three of you, haha) interested. I am striving to be more deliberate in my posting. I like the fact that on Wednesday, I know what I will be posting. I want to know what I will be posting on other days of the week as well.

With that being said, I’ve created a rough draft of my what topic I will discuss each day. It’s really not an “each day” kind of thing, its more of a majority-of-the-week kind of schedule. I am hoping that I will one day develop my blog into a daily posting, but for now, let’s be satisfied with the majority-of-the-week postings.

Most of my readers know me personally and may know that I can be an emotional person. I use that word loosely because although I give the impression that I am in control of my emotions, I can very easily have a “moment” for myself. Which is usually how I prefer to roll with my emotions and public displays of emotion (i.e., crying and pitchin’ a fit.)

I reckon that for lack of a better word, I can be described as passionate. At least that is how I would describe myself, if someone were to ask. I want to be a passionate person. I’m not talking about the lovie-dovie passion, but passion for the people and things in my life. For example, passion in my daily walk with Christ and showing Him through all that I do, passion for my job, passion for my hobbies, passion for my family, passion for My Sunshine, passion for the little things that life throws at me, good or bad (because remember we are to praise God in good times and bad, so I should to be passionate in good times and bad.)

OK, getting back on track….my schedule of weekly posts is as follows:

Schmaltzy Sunday

What is schmaltzy, you ask?
Schmaltzy is defined as: "(Origin: Yiddish) of, pertaining to, or characterized by schmaltz. Overly emotional. Cheesy sentiment, grandiose passion usually accompanied by effusive or overly-demonstrative gesticulations.  Superlative combination of sincerity and sentimentality. Abundance of enthusiasm or excitement."   [This particular definition from Urban Dictionary stated exactly what I was going for…word for word. I love it! I was sold at “cheesy sentiment.”]

What am I going to post about on Schmaltzy Sundays?
I will be writing with cheesy sentiment and an abundance of enthusiasm about a particular person, place, or thing that means a whole-heck-of-a-bunch to me; and how that person, place or thing has impacted my life. Layman’s Terms: I’m going to gush with sweet niceties that will probably make you want to vomit. (Take note:  that at any time it could possibly be about you…and then you’ll appreciate my gushings.)

Tip du jour Tuesday

What is Tip du jour, you ask?
Tip du jour, is a fancy way to say "Tip of the Day". Who would’ve thought it would be anything but?!

What am I going to post about on Tip du jour Tuesdays?
Not that I’m full of tips or am in any way qualified to speak a word of advise to anyone. Alas, this is my blog and I shall give a tip when I believe a tip be necessary. Normally any tip I offer, will more than likely be a lesson learned the hard way. Whether it be a common sense tip *Shhhh! I heard you chuckle*, a driving tip *stop laughing*, an organization tip, a cooking tip *again, stop laughing.* Believe me when I say, that my Tip du jour shall come to you from my heart, and more than likely, with a “stupid story” behind it, starring Yours Truly.

What I Wore Wednesday (aka, WIWW)

What is WIWW, you ask?
WIWW was founded by Lindsey from The Pleated Poppy. (To see more on detail on this read my post here.)

What am I going to post about on What I Wore Wednesdays?
I’ve decided that I, too, should put a little more thought and effort into my wardrobe. Especially considering that I wear the same outfits or combinations over and over and over. Its very lackluster. I need to do something to spice up my wardrobe. Each Wednesday I will post photos of what I wore for the week in an attempt to help me find new ways to wear old clothes. By doing this little project:
*I will feel better about myself.
*I will be able to see the areas I need to work on.
*I will be able to see where my hard work of working out is paying off!

Skidumpdump Saturdays

What is Skidumpdump, you ask?
Skidumpdump is defined as: "nonsensical talk randomblings."  [definition from Urban Dictionary, again stated exactly what I was going for in my unique wordage for this blog.]



What is a randombling?
Randombling is defined as: "a combination of the word random and rambling. May be used as a noun or a verb. Occasionally used to categorize random musing that do not deal with a specific subject."  [definition from Urban Dictionary, again stated exactly what I was going for in my unique wordage for this blog.]


What am I going to post about on Skidumpdump Saturdays?
I will write with “nonsensical talk randomblings” about things I’ve heard, tried, learned, etc. There will not be any rhyme or reason to these postings. It may be something funny, it may be something sad, it may be something educational (HA!) who knows? The sky is the limit! If there is a particular something/topic you would like for me to touch base on, please feel free to let me know. I’m open to suggestions and will respond to them as best I can.  [Disclaimer: again, this is my blog, therefore I am entitled to my thoughts and opinions. I will not push my thoughts, opinions, or moralities onto you, but I will speak of them freely. If you don’t like, I’m sorry, but I will not apologize for my beliefs. To each is own.]

This is going to be interesting to say the least.

What I Wore - #5

Ooops.

This week I was horrible because I didn't take the first picture!

I was rather sick this past week. 

I had a virus of some sort, so although I worked Wed-Fri, as soon as I got home I was in bed. 

I was drained of all energy.

But on a happier note, I am feeling much better now and will do better with Week #6, I promise.

On Sunday afternoon I was on my way to church for the Beth Moore Bible Study. 

I took this snapshot of my new hat.

This is all I can offer for this week.

I got the at Burke's for $1.80 - how rocking is that?!?!

It's made of t-shirt material so it is super comfy!

I made the little flower pinned on the side with some fabric I already had.

What I Wore - #4

I've made an executive decision, because this is my blog and I am entitled to do so.

I've decided to make the What I Wore posts go from Wednesday-Tuesday instead of Thursday-Wednesday. This way I can post on Tuesday night and it will show up on Wednesday morning! I'm such a genius! (not really, but it just makes sense to me.)

A lot of the comments I received on last week's post were all wonderfully sweet, (thank you!), but you all have pointed out something that I've been aware of for a long time, but refused to accept as a reality---I wear a lot of dresses and skirts.  Actually, in the last four weeks of posts, I've posted 23 different outfits; 19 of them were either a dress or skirt.  The other four photos consisted of two snow days where I had to go to work and wore jeans.  One was a snow day but couldn't get into work, so I had on junk clothes around the house.  The final jean day was just this week and I wanted to switch up my "casual Friday" work wear. 

Wowzers, how pitiful is that!?!?!

I am just happy that in the last 4 weeks I've only worn one dress twice.  That is such an accomplishment for me!  I wear the same things over and over and over, its ridiculous. 

I do realize that I need to wear more jeans and pants.  If you knew me growing up, you would know that I l.o.a.t.h.e.d. dresses and skirts.  (I'm sure Mom remembers how much I dreaded having to put my dress back on to go to church on Sunday evenings.)  During middle and high schools, all I ever wore were jeans, t-shirts, and sweatshirts with tennis shoes; some times the occasional sweater.  I had no sense of style whatsoever.  Not that I claim to have any sense of style now....but I'm definitely doing a little better than I was then!

Somewhere between college and now, I've found this crazy love for dresses and skirts.  Maybe its just me, but I am so much more comfortable wearing them opposed to pants/jeans.  Then again, it could be because I feel like a stuffed sausage whenever I wear jeans/pants.  There's just something about wearing a pair of jeans and having a muffin top that isn't comfy, needless to say that its definitely not stylish.

I will make an effort to wear more jeans/pants.  Please don't hate me if I'm not wearing them as often as I do my fave dresses and skirts.     My Dearest gifted me two new pair of jeans for my birthday.  Although, I can wear them and he showered me with compliments that made me blush...I'm not comfy enough in them yet to wear them out and about.  However, as some of you may know from my Chunky Dunking blog that I am on a lifestyle change right now.  I've lost right at 20ish pounds and 5.75 inches from my waist since November 2010.  So the likelihood of seeing me post pictures in my new jeans is a possibility!

I shall shut up now.  Let's see which dresses I wore this week!

~THURSDAY~

Teal Peasant Dress - Old Navy

Brown Belt - Abercrombie & Fitch ($7 at Sassy Girl Consignment)

Brown Leggings - Walmart

Boots - Humanité

Denim Jacket - Cato's

Ruffle Scarf - Humanité

~FRIDAY~ 

Black shirt - Ann Taylor Loft

Gray Cardigan - Target

Tank - Walmart

Cropped Denim - Gap

Leather Boots - Peebles

~SATURDAY~ 

*Working at Humanité*

Gray Tank - Old Navy

Black Cardi - Old Navy

Fuchsia Skirt - Old Navy ($4 on clearance)

Rosette Boots - Belk

Necklace - Walmart ($3 you can't beat that!)

Wow....I was definitely an O-N girl this particular day!

~SUNDAY~

Dress - Old Navy

Cream Cardigan - White House Black Market ($5 at Sassy Girl Consignment)

Brown Boots - Humanité

Striped Scarf - Humanité

Bracelet - Walmart ($3 - close up below)

~MONDAY~

Dress - Humanité (it's actually a skirt, but it can double as a cute dress too!)

Navy Leggings - Walmart

Green Flats - Target

White Cardigan - Walmart, maybe?

Wooden Necklace - Cato's

~TUESDAY~

I've had the virus mess that's been going around. 

I was in my pjs all day.

(I am linking up with Lindsey at The Pleated Poppy)