A Day At Hollywood Studios
I can’t lie…Hollywood Studios has never been my favorite park. In fact, we decided to do Hollywood Studios on our first/travel day to “get it over with”. So, to say we were wowed when this turned out to be one of our favorite days of the trip would be an understatement. We seriously had so much fun y’all! Let me walk you through our day.
We made it into the park around 11:30 am, and since we were in official vacay mode we started our adventure at Sunshine Day Bar with Blackberry Moonshine Lemonades. They were delicious. This spot was also busy every time we passed it, well into the evening. So, I imagine all of their drinks are yummy.
For our first ride of the day, we decided on Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway. Such a cute ride! It’s also located in the middle of the park and directly in front of the entrance - a great ride to start or end your day.
Next we caught the one o’clock showing of Beauty and the Beast. It was SO good! However, I will warn you…I did spend the entire rest of our trip singing “Be Our Guest”, but it was totally worth it. There are lots of opportunities to catch this show throughout the day. Shows begin at 11 am, and run every other hour through 4 pm, with an additional show at 5 pm. The last time we were in Disney they weren’t doing any shows due to COVID. So, we were pumped to finally see it.
After the show, we made our way over to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge to ride Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run. This ride was SO much better than last time because we got to be pilots. I would highly recommend trying to get the pilot assignment if you can. It’s much more interactive than the other positions. Last time we were in the back, and it was a totally different experience…still cool, but definitely not as good.
We made a lunch reservation (in advance) at 50’s Prime Time Café. This is such a fun restaurant. It’s super retro, which I love. The staff are also so in character. Let’s just say we got in “trouble” repeatedly for having our elbows on the table and having our phones out.
I ordered the beer-battered onion rings and a caesar salad, and Megan and I both got margaritas. It was a delicious meal and very filling. I would definitely recommend making a reservation prior to your trip if you’d like to eat here. It was packed when we were there.
After lunch we decided we had to try the viral Spiked Cold Brew Black Caf. I think the below picture speaks for itself. It was YUMMY. Totally worth the hype. Cold brew and chocolate liqueur, topped with sweet cream cheese and chocolate puffs? Yes, please!
This drink can be purchased in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Kat Saka’s Kettle. We used the Disney app to place a mobile order.
I had my heart set on a balloon picture at Hollywood Studios. Specifically, I wanted one of those clear balloons with the colored Mickey head on the inside. We asked an employee and were told they only sell those at Magic Kingdom (though we never saw any at Magic Kingdom). Still, I somehow ended up buying a $20 DOLLAR BALLOON, y’all. Ridiculous? Absolutely. But, FTB (for the blog) became the official motto of the trip at that point. It was a really nice balloon - it lit up and everything. But, worth $20?? Probably not.
Outfit details: ears & shirt - Etsy, shorts & sneaks - Amazon
With my balloon, which we named Mary-Belle, in tow, we made our way to Toy Story Land, specifically Woody’s Lunch Box. Again, we utilized the Disney app and placed a mobile order for “totchos”, Angry Orchards and a raspberry lunch box tart (essentially a fancy pop-tart). Definitely recommend all of the above, especially the “totchos”.
Next, still with my balloon in tow, we headed to Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster. If you do decide to waste your money on a $20 balloon like I did, you can leave it at the entrance of Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster, and pick it back up afterwards. Fun fact: Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster was my first upside down roller coaster when I was 14 years old (my first trip to Disney). It remains one of my favorite rides at Disney.
For your viewing pleasure…
Next up, we (Megan, Mary-Belle & I) grabbed drinks at Oasis Canteen, a cute little stand with a fabulous bartender. I got a Long Lost Island, which was delicious. The bartender also gave me a light up ice cube, which I brought home with me.
After a quick drink we headed over to Star Tours, a 3D experience that we also did last time. It’s what I would consider the third ride in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. This time I was told to give my balloon to someone inside. What we didn’t realize until we had already walked all the way through the line a second time to retrieve the balloon, was that it had been handed off to someone else so I could get it at the end of the ride. Thankfully, I was able to find Mary-Belle.
THEN it was time for the pièce de résistance, Rise of the Resistance. This ride is nuts, y’all! It is unlike any other ride I’ve ever ridden and is absolutely worth the wait. Ten out of ten recommend! I know essentially nothing about Star Wars, but I still really enjoy this ride. Balloon update: (I’m looking out for you, parents!) I was able to leave Mary-Belle at the front of this ride as well. We did forget her initially, but it was super simple to go back to the entrance of the ride and grab her.
At 8 pm, we went to see Fantasmic!, which just so happened to be conveniently located near Tower of Terror…our last ride of the night. Fantasmic! was SUPER cute, and included some of the underrated characters. For example, it was the only time, in any of the four parks that I saw Mary Poppins. The show is about 30 minutes long, and a great way to end the night. I would recommend getting there early though. Otherwise you’ll end up walking quite a bit further to the opposite side of the amphitheater in an attempt to find a seat.
We closed down the park with my favorite ride of the day. We purposely waited until after dark to ride Tower of Terror, and I don’t think I’ll ever ride it during the day again. SO much better at night! Balloon update: once again, we were told we needed to leave Mary-Belle with someone inside. So, once we reached our elevator entrance I handed her off to one of the employees. The short version of the story is this: the employee at the end of the ride told me that a child had taken my balloon…my $20 dollar balloon, y’all. I actually handled the news better than Megan did. We were able to hold on to that balloon for almost half of our time in the park, and lost her on the last ride. All of this to say, leaving your balloon with an employee while you ride a ride does NOT guarantee its safe return to you. Something to keep in mind before dropping $20 on an overpriced balloon.
We ended up grabbing dinner back at our resort, but there are lots of great places to choose from if you’d like to have dinner in the park. I would just suggest making a reservation in advance or utilizing the Disney app to place a mobile order.
The park closed at 9 pm when we were there. So, we spent about 9.5 hours in the park. We were definitely exhausted by the end of the day and left with a few blisters, but overall I would say this was the perfect amount of time to do everything we wanted to do.
I can honestly say I am PUMPED for my next visit to Hollywood Studios!
-D
Guest Writer: “The Skinny on Turning Your Hobby Into a Business”
Hi Friends! I am so excited to introduce guest writer, Julia Mitchell. Julia is incredibly passionate about the activities that fill her days, and wants to share her adoration for her favorite lifestyle topics with the world. She encourage others to turn their INspiration into OUTspiration. Check out her article below!
Image via Pexels
Anyone who has ever turned a hobby into a business can tell you that it’s not easy. It takes hard work, determination, and a lot of sacrifices. But it’s also incredibly rewarding, both financially and emotionally.
If you’re thinking about switching from hobby to business, there are a few things you need to know first. This article will give you the skinny on everything you need to make your dream of owning your own business a reality.
Confirming Your Idea
Before you do anything else, it’s important to ensure that your business idea is viable. To do this, you’ll need to answer a few questions:
2) What needs does your target market have that your business can fill?
3) What are your unique selling points? Why would someone choose your business over a competitor?
4) Is there enough demand for your product or service to sustain a business?
5) Can you generate enough revenue to make a profit?
If you can answer all of these questions positively, then you’re well on your way to starting a successful business!
The Importance of Planning
When starting any new business, it's important to create a business plan. This document will outline your business goals, strategies for achieving them, and how you plan to finance your venture. For example, if you want to make your surf fishing passion a business, you should determine specifically how to do that; will you sell equipment, teach lessons, or arrange charter fishing trips?
It's also a good idea to check with your state about any legal requirements for starting a business. Utilize a business startup checklist and invest in any tools that will help you succeed.
Designing a Marketing Plan
Once your business is up and running, you'll need to develop a marketing plan to promote your products or services. This plan should include strategies for reaching your target audience, budget information, and timelines. It's important to be realistic about the available resources and what can be achieved in the timeframe you've set.
Creating an Online Presence
A strong web presence is essential for any business today. If you don't have a website, you're missing out on potential customers. In addition, SCORE notes that social media platforms are great ways to connect with customers and build relationships. You'll need to decide which platforms are best for your business and create content that engages your target audience.
Finding Funding
One of the biggest challenges of starting a new business is finding funding. There are a variety of options available, such as loans, grants, and popular forms of crowdfunding. It's important to research all of your options and find the funding that best suits your needs.
Before you can hope to secure any kind of loan for your business, you'll need to make sure your credit report is in good shape. Lenders will want to see that you're reliable and have a history of paying your debts on time. If you have any outstanding loans or credit card balances, be sure to pay them off as soon as possible.
Getting a Workspace
One of the most important decisions you'll make when starting a business is choosing where you'll work. Do you want to launch your business from home or rent office space? There are pros and cons to both options, so you'll need to consider what's best for your specific situation.
Working With a Coach or Mentor
Starting a new business can be daunting, especially if you're doing it alone. Foundr Magazine points out that a great way to overcome this is by finding a coach or mentor who can offer guidance and support. They can help you navigate the challenges of starting a business and give valuable insight into what does and doesn't work.
Conclusion
Starting a business out of your hobby can be an incredibly rewarding experience, but it’s not without its challenges. Before you take the plunge, make sure you have a solid business plan in place and that you’ve checked all the legal steps necessary to establish your new venture.
Once you’re up and running, don’t forget to establish a web presence and find a mentor who can help guide you through the early stages of entrepreneurship. With hard work, marketing, and a little luck, your hobby-turned-business could be on its way to becoming a success story!
Thanks Julia! This is such a helpful guide to starting your own business!
If you or someone you know would be interested in submitting an article to be posted on The Blonde Gem, please reach out via the contact button in the top right corner.
Happy Wednesday, friends!
-D
A Gift For Everyone On Your List…
Hi friends!! I love giving gifts. Plus I LOVE shopping. So, creating gift guides has been so much fun! I hope they will help you tame the terror that is trying to find that perfect gift for each person on your list.
DIRECTIONS: click on any of the below gift guides and you will be taken to a separate window with a picture of the gift guide. From there you can click on individual items. *All Amazon gift guides are linked together. Use the arrow function to move through the eleven Amazon gift guides.
More gift guides coming daily! Happy shopping!
-D
Halloween Movie Reviews Pt. 4 (31-45)
31. The Exorcist - I’m not going to lie. This is a pretty traumatizing movie. Don’t get me wrong. It’s a classic and definitely a must-watch. But, it did leave me feeling a little uneasy. I think it’s the concept of this little girl talking in a man’s voice (+ the vulgarity of what she’s saying)…I also could have done without some of the puking…or whatever we want to call that. It was a little long, but overall I liked it. I would give it an 8.5/10.
32. The Exorcism of Emily Rose - Not impressed. I heard this movie was terrifying. Now…I don’t know if it’s because I found the original Exorcist so terrifying or if this movie really just isn’t that scary. But, I was underwhelmed. I cannot say I would watch it again. I’ll give it a 4/10.
33. The Haunting in Connecticut - Honestly, not one of my favs. I felt like it was a wannabe Conjuring. There were elements I liked, but overall I’d take The Conjuring Universe over this any day. Plus, I just find it completely unreasonable that anyone in their right mind would ever choose to sleep in that basement. With a door to some mysterious room that won’t open? No thank you. This one gets a 5/10.
34. The Amityville Horror - I wanted to rewatch this movie, but I ran out of time. All those Halloweens… Anyhow, I’ve seen it before and remember liking it. It reminds me a lot of the first Conjuring. While there is technically a connection (Ed & Lorraine Warren), this movie isn’t a part of The Conjuring Universe. It’s definitely worth the watch though. Based on what I remember, I’d give it a 6 or 7/10.
35. Insidious (2010) - The Insidious movies are some of V’s favorites. I’ll agree that they are pretty good, but I still think I’d take The Conjuring Universe over them, if I HAD to choose. Rose Byrne is amazing, as she always is. Plus, the storyline is unique…not your typical horror movie, which I can appreciate. Overall, I’d probably give this a 7/10. Worth the watch for sure.
36. Insidious: Chapter 2 - Not as good as the first one in my opinion, but still a solid horror movie. This movie picks up right where one leaves off, which I love. And, once again Rose is outstanding. I’ll say 6/10.
37. Insidious: Chapter 3 - We get a new storyline for this movie, and while it’s not as good as the first I’d say it’s slightly better than the second. V describes it as that feeling when people should be around but no one is ever around. Overall we’ll give this one a 6.5/10.
38. Insidious: The Last Key - To be honest…I haven’t seen this one. Again…I ran out of time. But, here’s what V had to say about it: “The worst one in the series. At least in the other three there wasn’t a lot of time to make stupid mistakes. But, in the fourth one there’s a lot of stupidity. In the first two, we can’t expect a kid to know better. But, in the fourth one it’s all adults.” V says 4/10…if that.
39. The Woman in Black - I just can’t take Daniel Ratcliffe seriously as anyone but Harry Potter. It’s not that he isn’t an incredible actor…obviously we all know he is, but it will just never feel right to see him play another character. We start out strong, with a super creepy scene…there are dolls involved. Enough said. But, overall the story line isn’t my favorite. I feel like it had potential, but just didn’t quite work for me. I’d give it a 4.5/10.
40. The Shining - It’s a classic. You have to watch it. The End. But, seriously…it will probably always make my must-watch list. It’s more thriller than horror, and I personally found the mental health aspect fascinating. It’s very retro, which I also appreciate. I would give it an 8/10 as far as classic thrillers go.
41. Psycho - Speaking of classic thrillers…y’all…I was SO impressed with this one. Also, fun fact: the main character (the blonde who steals the money) is Jamie Lee Curtis’ mom! Like what?? Insanely strong acting skills must run in the family. This movie is in black and white and it is an absolute must-watch in my opinion. It gets a 9/10 from me.
42. Edward Scissorhands - I feel weird calling this movie “cute”, but it’s cute. I mean Johnny Depp is the main character. How could it be anything but good? I really enjoyed the whimsical nature of this movie, plus it’s truly unlike any other movie I’ve ever seen. Definitely a must-watch. I’d say 7/10.
43. The Nightmare Before Christmas - My sister-in-law will definitely disown me after this…(Sorry, Tory!!), but I was NOT impressed. I actually started the movie, stopped, and then made myself go back and finish it. Solely, for the purpose of writing this review. I feel like it’s one of those movies, I would have really enjoyed had I grown up watching it. However, I was strictly into princesses when it came to Disney movies. Also, I would consider it more of a Christmas movie than a Halloween movie. On a scale of 1-10…it’s getting a 2.5 from me. Again…Sorry, Tory! I still love you!
44. The Eye - This movie took me on a roller coaster…first I really disliked it. Then toward the end I decided I liked it well enough, only to be very disappointed and frustrated by the ending. I won’t give anything away, but I literally just kept saying “Are you kidding me?” when the movie was over. Definitely not making the cut for me next year. I honestly expected more from a movie starring Jessica Alba. Scale says 2/10.
45. The Silence of the Lambs - Alright…hear me out…I expected better. I know it’s a classic, and how dare I hate on it, but I was incredibly underwhelmed. I think I was expecting it to be more about Hannibal Lector than it is. I almost completely lost my mind when the dog was put in danger…, but that was honestly the most traumatizing part to me. I just expected more based on all the hype. Obviously anything having to do with a cannibal is going to be disturbing on all the levels. But, it’s just not worth the hype in my opinion. I’ll say 5/10, simply because it’s a classic.
Halloween Movie Reviews Pt. 3 (21-30)
21. Halloween Ends - Truthfully, I fell asleep. However, V says he would give it a 7/10. He also said this one provided some closure, and he really doesn’t think there will be any more. I think this is truly in the best interest of everyone. Having said all that, I did like the first couple of scenes before I fell asleep.
22. Halloweentown - NOT impressed. Although, I will admit that I watched it for the very first time this year. I’m sure had I grown up watching it every year, I might feel differently. It didn’t necessarily speak to me at age 32. It seems that there are two teams. You’re either a Hocus Pocus person or a Halloweentown person. I would have to say I am for sure a Hocus Pocus person. I’d give this one a 3/10.
23. Halloweentown II - I was pleasantly surprised with this one. Much better than the first, in my opinion. I don’t typically feel this way about a sequel, but in this case having a better connection with the characters helped me to feel a little more invested in the storyline. I also found the mom to be less annoying than in the first movie…which was nice. I’d say a solid 5/10. My expectations were really low after the first one.
24. Halloweentown High - Decent enough. Would I watch it every year? No. However, it was, again, significantly better than the first one. A slightly older Marnie made for a slightly more mature vibe. Also, again…the mom was less annoying. I’d say 4/10.
25. Return to Halloweentown - NOT impressed. Marnie is played by a different actress which totally threw me off. It also felt incredibly cheesy. I mean…I know, I know…the others aren’t exactly NOT cheesy, but this one was like teenager cheesy. I’d say you can definitely skip this one. I’d rank it 2/10.
26. Scream (1996) - SO GOOD. Any movie that starts out with a blonde Drew Barrymore, is fine by me. I do wish we’d gotten to see a little more of Drew than just at the beginning, but still. Furthermore, Courtney Cox is fabulous as the ruthless reporter. I would give this movie a solid 9/10.
27. Scream 2 - I’d say you have to watch it at least once, but that might be enough. It’s maybe a 6 or 7/10. Nothing compared to the first movie, and not one that I would watch yearly. The storyline is a little more difficult to follow, and I’d say the movie is a little longer than it needs to be.
28. Scream 3 - Probably my least favorite Scream. Like the second one, I feel you have to watch it at least once in order to get the most out of the series. However, it wouldn’t be one I’d watch every year. Probably a 5.5/10.
29. Scream 4 - AMAZING cast, y’all! Seriously…so good! Kristen Bell, Lucy Hale, Aimee Teegarden, Emma Roberts, Hayden Pannettiere and Britt Robertson…it doesn’t get any better. With a truly shocking ending, this one ranks pretty close to the first one in my book. I’d say 9/10.
30. Scream (2022) - Again…I fell asleep. But, don’t worry. V watched it for y’all! He says 5/10. So, between me falling asleep and V’s score, I think it’s safe to say this one won’t be on our must-watch list next year. It’s kind of like with the Halloween series. At some point, you just need to be done. Scream 4 would have been a great place to stop.
Halloween Movie Reviews Pt. 2 (11-20)
11. The Curse of La Llorona - I’ve seen this one twice now, and it’s enjoyable enough. Good storyline. Good acting. All around just good. Not great. But, good. I’d give it a 7/10. While it is a part of The Conjuring Universe, it’s definitely the odd man out. There is very little connection to the rest of the series, which I don’t love. However, as far as horror movies go, it’s worth the watch.
12. Halloween - I mean what’s not to love about a movie featuring Jamie Lee Curtis and a baby Kyle Richards. NOTHING! This movie has everything. It is truly a classic. A classic, retro, horror movie with a killer (pun intended) cast. I watched it for the first time last year, and liked it a lot. This year I enjoyed it even more. It’s probably a top five must-watch Halloween movie for me. I mean it’s called Halloween…come on. This one gets a 10/10 in my book.
13. Halloween II - Definitely not as good as the first Halloween. However, it’s a solid Halloween movie that will probably remain on my must-watch list. It’s the full package, complete with a creepy hospital traumatized by a psycho serial killer in a mask. Plus, we find out some pretty crazy information toward the end. Jamie Lee Curtis is outstanding as usual. The movie is worth watching solely for her if nothing else. Let’s say 7/10.
14. Halloween III: Season of the Witch - WORST MOVIE OF ALL TIME. Genuinely not worth your time. It has nothing to do with the other movies. It is gore for the sake of gore, which I am not about. Coming from the second movie, which started with the ending scene of the first movie…you can’t help but be a little confused/disappointed once you realize this movie has nothing to do with one or two. Plus, there’s no Jamie Lee. So, that doesn’t help matters. I’m giving it a 1/10. Yea…it’s that bad.
15. Halloween 4: The Return of Michael Myers - Second best of the series. We get back on track with this movie. While there is still no Jamie Lee, the main character is her young daughter. So, there is solid connection to the first two movies. The storyline is strong, and as far as horror movies go…it could really stand on its own (unlike the third movie). I still think one is my favorite, but I’ll give this one an 8/10.
16. Halloween 5: The Revenge of Michael Myers - This one picks up at the end of the fourth movie, which was so strong. Since the fifth movie picks up a year (if I remember correctly) after the end of the fourth, I was disappointed when the storyline didn’t measure up. I found myself wanting more info on the end of four the whole time. It could have been better, but even so, it’s way better than three. I’d give it a 6/10.
17. Halloween: The Curse of Michael Myers - I love a movie that starts with a traumatic childbirth scene…kidding. Labor is perhaps one of the scariest things in the world to me. So, the last thing I need to see in a horror movie is a woman giving birth, but here we are. This movie picks up six years after the fifth though we get a mostly new cast. Overall I might give it a 5/10, if I was feeling extra generous. It’s worse than one, two and four, better than three (obviously), and a little worse than five.
18. Halloween H20: 20 Years Later - Jamie Lee is BACK! Praise God. This is an incredibly strange series in that the movies do not go in order/some of the movies completely contradict each other. This movie picks up 20 years after the second movie. Let’s just pretend the third movie doesn’t exist because it has nothing to do with anything. For the storyline of movies four through six, we are told Jamie Lee died (was killed by Michael Myers). So, Essentially we have three different series going on. One, two and four through six, three (all by its lonesome), and one, two & seven. Now that we’ve wrapped our heads around that…here’s my opinion. This one is worse than one, two and four, better than three and six, and pretty in line with five. I’d give it an overall 6/10. Likely will not make my must-watch list next year.
19. Halloween Resurrection - SPOILER ALERT - I really thought he was dead this time. But, no…the man is resilient. I’ll give him that. We get a precious little Jamie Lee at the beginning of the movie, plus some Tyra Banks, but those things do not a good movie make. The storyline seems like it would be really strong, but the movie itself could have been better. In comparison with other haunted-house style horror movies, this just doesn’t measure up. I also feel like by this point in the series, you’re just tired of watching Michael stab people over and over again and continue living despite being shot (MANY times), hit and set on fire. The storyline that Jamie Lee killed the wrong person at the end of seven just doesn’t add up either. I call BS. I’d give it a 5/10.
20. Halloween Kills -Jamie Lee is back…again, plus adult Kyle Richards, returning as Lindsey from the first movie. This one definitely feels more modern, especially compared with the 1978 original. I LOVE me some Kyle Richards, but if I’m being honest…I wasn’t terribly impressed with her acting. Jamie Lee on the other hand…flawless. The movie itself was…fine. Just fine. I think by this point I was just so burned out with the Michael Myers saga. This is also like the third movie that takes place predominantly in a hospital. I’m going to say 6/10.
Halloween Movie Reviews Pt. 1 (1-10)
It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown - This is my very favorite Halloween movie of all time, forever and ever, AMEN. I LOVE me some Charlie Brown, but the Halloween Charlie Brown is by far the best, in my opinion. The Christmas one is a close second, but it’s just impossible to beat Charlie Brown getting rocks instead of candy while wearing a ghost costume he somehow managed to ruin. I also love anytime there is a good Sally storyline. Sally is MY GIRL. Her tantrum at the end is EVERYTHING! I’ve been watching this movie literally every single year since I can remember. So, there is definitely some nostalgia at play in making it my fav. If you’ve never seen it…WHAT ARE YOU DOING?!?!?! It’s seriously the cutest. It obviously gets a 10/10.
Hocus Pocus - I have never liked Hocus Pocus…there, I said it. I saw it once when I was little and thought it was scary. Then I watched it again as an adult, and was less than impressed. I actually dreaded watching it again this year with my hubby, but he and his sisters LOVE it. Plus, the sequel (with SJP) was coming out. So, I reconciled myself to watching it. I’m as surprised as anyone, but I actually really enjoyed it. I think the retro, nineties vibes really won me over (+ SJP, of course), and it was significantly less scary than I remembered. It also made me laugh more than once, which I can appreciate. All in all, despite not growing up watching it, I must say, it really is a classic. It will definitely be on our list of must-watch Halloween movies forever and always. On a scale of 1-10, I’m giving it a solid 7.
Hocus Pocus II - On a scale of 1-10, I’m giving this one a 3…might be a little generous. It was more difficult to follow than it needed to be, and there were too many side stories competing with the main storyline. It was fine, but nothing to write home about, as they say. I think my biggest issue with this movie is the wasted potential. It COULD have been so amazing. Personally, I would have had the main character be Dani’s son or daughter. That would have been so fun. Plus, it would have practically written itself. But, instead we got introduced to all these new characters, and the connection just wasn’t there. Not to mention…the witches were supposed to be like DEAD, dead. I have some issue with the fact there was a sequel featuring the same three witches at all. But, I do love anything featuring SJP…she was flawless as always. We just needed more returning characters.
The Conjuring - Solid horror movie, and one of V’s favorites. As far as the demon-possessed movies go, this is one of the best in my opinion. I also LOVE the Ed and Lorraine Warren story (and Vera Farmiga is spectacular). If you ask me, it should have been obvious to everyone involved that this house was haunted. I would have never moved in…and I love old houses. But, if the main characters of horror movies were smart, we wouldn’t have very many horror movies. So, I get it. Scale says 8/10.
The Conjuring II - probably my least favorite of The Conjurings. I think V would definitely disagree, but I just don’t love it. Again, love the Ed and Lorraine piece, but overall…not my fav. Well acted, but I’m frustrated by how hard it is to get anyone to believe what is happening…even Ed and Lorraine. This clearly isn’t a case of some kid seeking attention. Again, we have a super creepy house that gives off haunted/possessed vibes SO obviously. However, I do appreciate that it’s based on a true story. In real life, the mom lived there until the day she died…after everything that happened, she kept on living there. I do NOT understand. I’d give it a 6/10.
The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It - I’ll give this one a 7/10. Not as good as the first Conjuring, but better than the second. Unlike the other two movies, there is no build up with this movie. You are immediately thrown into a chaotic exorcism, which I have to say I appreciate. Some horror movies are soooo slow to get moving. I also like the storyline, and OF COURSE, the Ed and Lorraine involvement.
The Nun - Made the mistake of watching this one by myself while V was at work. It’s pretty intense. Flawlessly tied into The Conjuring Universe, with a sequel on the way, it’s a good storyline. A little forbidden romance (more like forbidden flirtation), left me wishing things has turned out differently for the main character. Overall, I’d say it’s one of the scarier movies from The Conjuring Universe. I’ll say 7/10.
Annabelle - This is the first scary movie V and I ever watched together. So, maybe that gives it some bonus points. But, I really do like the movie. I like that it is part of a series/The Conjuring Universe. I will say, only a complete psycho would ever think the Annabelle doll was appropriate for a nursery…or anything this side of Hell. But, we needed a story line…so Mia had to think this creepy, haunted doll was just the cutest collector’s item. Definitely some good jump scares, which I can appreciate in a horror movie. Lots of cute retro outfits, some cult talk (always fascinating) and very well acted. I’d give it a 9/10.
Annabelle Creation - This is V’s favorite. I’ve seen it twice now. The first time I was underwhelmed. However, I liked it a lot better the second time. It was scarier, creepier, etc., then I remembered. Also, more graphic at times. The ending is SO GOOD. When you figure out the connection to the first movie, it is mind-blowing. Shocking…but there’s another, obviously haunted house in this movie. What is wrong with these people?! It would be a pretty beautiful house on the outside with a little TLC...TLC I would not be giving, because again…OBVIOUSLY a haunted house. I’d give it an 8/10, but the ending gets a 10/10.
Annabelle Comes Home - Love it, love it, love it. Minus the devil….that sounds weird. Allow me to elaborate. I really do love The Conjuring Universe, but V and I both agree that it loses us when it comes to the computerized devil. He just doesn’t match the rest of the movie in our opinion. Fake, corny vibes are what I get. That aside, really great storyline, less Ed and Lorraine content than I’d like, but lots of Judy (their daughter) camera time to make up for it. Plus, almost the entire movie takes place inside the Warren’s house. I’m torn between this one and the first one in terms of a favorite. So, I’ll give this one a 9/10 too.
45 Must-Watch Halloween Movies
Christmas movies are my love language. BUT…before we can get to the heavenly experience that is watching small-town miracles and love stories, falling perfectly into place just in time for Christmas Eve, we must survive the goblins, ghosts and ghouls. Therefore, I give you V and I’s must-watch Halloween movies:
It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown (my favorite)
Hocus Pocus
Hocus Pocus II
The Conjuring
The Conjuring II
The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It
The Nun
Annabelle
Annabelle Creation (V’s favorite)
Annabelle Comes Home
The Curse of La Llorona
Halloween
Halloween II
Halloween III: Season of the Witch
Halloween 4: The Return of Michael Myers
Halloween 5: The Revenge of Michael Myers
Halloween: The Curse of Michael Myers
Halloween H20: 20 Years Later
Halloween Resurrection
Halloween Kills
Halloween Ends
Halloweentown
Halloweentown II
Halloweentown High
Return to Halloweentown
Scream (1996)
Scream 2
Scream 3
Scream 4
Scream (2022)
The Exorcist
The Exorcism of Emily Rose
The Haunting in Connecticut
The Amityville Horror
Insidious (2010)
Insidious: Chapter 2
Insidious: Chapter 3
Insidious: The Last Key
The Woman in Black
The Shining
Psycho
Edward Scissorhands
The Nightmare Before Christmas
The Eye
The Silence of the Lambs
Squeezing all of these into the month of October will take some serious dedication, but we believe in y’all! Also, I’ll be doing reviews of each as we watch them so you can better determine which ones are a must-watch for you. Happy watching, friends!
-D
Guest Writer: “How To Say ‘Hello World’ With Confidence Again.”
Hi Friends! I am so excited to introduce our very first guest writer, Ashley Taylor. Ashley is a freelance writer, photographer, and advocate for people with disabilities. She has scoliosis and her husband is wheelchair-bound so they have plenty of knowledge on how to find adaptive baby gear and navigate the world of parenting with disabilities that severely impact mobility. She created Disabled Parents to provide information and resources to help other people with disabilities. Check out her article below!
Photo by Unsplash
Are you ready to take on the world? If you're feeling a little unsure of yourself, don't worry. You can do plenty of things to build your confidence and get ready to take on anything that life throws your way. The Blonde Bubble shares a few ideas to get you started.
Get Fit
One of the best ways to feel good about yourself is to get in shape. Start a fitness routine, and see how quickly you start to notice positive physical changes. Not only are you likely to look better, but you’ll also have more energy and be able to think more clearly. You can take your workout outside or join a local fitness club.
Change Your Diet
Eating healthy is another great way to feel good about yourself. When you eat nutritious foods, you continue improving your appearance, and you're taking care of your body. This is a great way to set yourself up for success in all areas of your life.
Make a Career Change
If you're feeling stuck in your career, it may be time for a change. Start investigating different career options, and see what piques your interest. Talk to people in those careers to learn more about what they do on a daily basis.
It's also an excellent time to consider starting your own business. The steps to start a new business aren’t particularly difficult. You’ll need to research the market for startup ideas, and begin to strategize so you can create a business plan. In this document, include details on how you plan to sell your services, how you plan to organize your company, and the financial requirements.
Take Control of Your Finances
It's never too early or too late to take control of your finances. One of the most important things you can do is to create a budget and stick to it. Track your income and expenses so you know where your money is going each month. Then, make adjustments to ensure that you're spending less than you're bringing in.
Another key step is to reduce your debt. If you have high-interest debt, consider consolidating it or refinancing your home to get a lower interest rate. And finally, make sure you're saving for retirement. Even if you're just starting out, setting aside a few dollars each month can add up over time.
Take a Class
When it comes to learning new things, there's no better time than the present. Sign up for a class in an area that interests you. You’ll get to venture outside of your comfort zone, meet new people, and become more confident in your abilities. Depending on the course you choose, it can also help you change careers or grow your startup.
Relax
One of the best things you can do for yourself is to relax. Find ways to de-stress and unwind after a long day. This may include meditating, reading, taking a bath, or spending time with friends and family. Taking some time for yourself helps you recharge and be ready to take on whatever comes your way.
Think Positively
One of the best things you can do for yourself is to think positively. Whenever you have a negative thought, replace it with a positive one. This can help you feel better about yourself and your situation. You're more likely to take on new challenges and reach your goals.
Rejoin the World With Confidence
When you're feeling good about yourself, it shows. You have more energy and are more likely to take on new challenges. For help meeting your nutritional and weight loss goals, contact Nutrition 4 Life to learn more about weight management and healthy living.
Such good tips! Thanks Ashley!
If you or someone you know would be interested in submitting an article to be posted on The Blonde Blog, please reach out via the contact button in the top right corner.
Happy Thursday, friends!
-D
Traveling With Anxiety
I have A LOT of anxiety about traveling. Like…a lot. I’m a homebody, and I like my space. I like my sheets and pillows and towels, and most importantly…my FANS, all three of them. But, these things are small potatoes, as they say, compared to some of my bigger concerns about traveling.
The thoughts that run through my mind as I’m leaving for a trip are endless… What if the house catches on fire? What if something happens to Koko? What if Oliver runs away? What if I get claustrophobic, or hot? Wait, I’m already hot. Am I going to have a middle seat? What if this plane goes down? By the way…how is this monstrous plane + all of us + all of our luggage just casually floating through the sky? Speaking of luggage, did mine make it on board? What if I forgot something? DID I FORGET MY MEDS? …I mean it goes on and on, y’all.
I’ve never really liked being away from home, even when I was little. I rarely slept over at friend’s houses. I’d have them over to my house instead. Now, you might be thinking, “Gosh you’re high maintenance.” And, you’d be entirely correct. It’s not my favorite thing about myself, but it is without a doubt one of the consequences of my anxiety. So, I’ve learned to deal with it the best I can.
For starters, I have to be prepared. I’m already a list maker, but when it comes to planning for a trip? It’s next level. Typically I start with my planner. It’s a little easier than starting with a completely blank slate.
I go through each date I’m going to be gone, and write down any major events for that day AND the temperature/weather forecast - this is so helpful, when it comes to deciding what to wear each day. Once I know what the weather is going to be like I start piecing outfits together based on the events of the day.
From here things get a little neurotic, dare I say. I break out the Post-it notes. I like to place them (evenly spread apart), on a large flat surface (usually our bed). I then begin grabbing items for each outfit and placing them under the correct Post-it. This is the most helpful way I’ve found to make sure I don’t forget anything, like the right bra for that strapless shirt or the earrings that match that dress. That’s right, jewelry, shoes, etc. are included in this puzzle. I need to make sure I have the complete outfit.
I have a very big fear of being away from home and not having something that I want or need. So, learning the art of NOT overpacking has been a lifelong pursuit. I’m FINALLY getting the hang of it, I think. Though I do so miss the adrenaline from holding my breath while they weigh my suitcase...and then proceed to tell me my bag is overweight. Kidding…about the missing it part. That has definitely happened more than once, and it certainly didn’t help my travel anxiety.
Another list I make (that doesn’t get a Post-it, or fall under a particular day) is the “other” list. You know, things like curling irons and pajamas, essential oils and headphones. Those types of things. There is also a toiletries list.
Now, this is all well and good, but what about the actual traveling part? I’m going to talk about flying, specifically, because that’s what we will be doing for our upcoming trip to California. I’d much rather be early than late. I don’t want to be rushing through security; it already makes me sweat. I always make sure I have someone reliable to come and pick me up and get me to the airport on time (at least an hour and a half before, if not a full 2 hours.) If I can check-in before hand, I do it. If I don’t have to check a bag, I don’t. When these two things align, you can basically walk straight in and head for security.
I try to be very mindful when I’m going through security. I pay attention to the directions being called out because getting yelled at by airport security is stressful. I also pay close attention to everything I’m sending through the scanner. I can’t imagine anything more anxiety-inducing than getting on the plane, or God forbid to your destination, and realizing you don’t have something you took off or out at security.
If I haven’t already taken a Xanax by this point, I take one once I’m through security. (I will reiterate that this is a medication prescribed by my doctor, and taken responsibly). I try to stay busy both while waiting to board and on the plane. I always have a book, a snack, a water and my headphones/phone within reach. Once on board, I like to keep my personal item under the seat in front of me because it stresses me out having to ask people to move during the flight for me to get something out of the overhead bin.
The beauty of not checking a bag is avoiding baggage claim all together. Plus, it saves me a lot of time I would otherwise spend fixating on whether or not my bag made the flight/connection. Which brings me to another point. I’m of the age (32), where anxiety aside, I avoid connecting flights and crappy airlines whenever possible. A direct Delta flight is my ideal scenario.
While there is a great deal of peace that comes from getting off the plane, with my bag in hand, the anxiety doesn’t stop there. Once I arrive at my destination, one thing I try very hard to do is keep my stuff neat and organized. For example, I keep dirty clothes folded neatly, outside of my suitcase. Nothing sends me into a tailspin faster than a dirty and/or cluttered living space. So, I try to keep things much like I would at home.
Another thing I try very hard for is my/our own room. If it is at all a possibility, I want the private space. It honestly has less to do with privacy, and more to do with my need to disengage at times. I thrive on alone time, something there usually isn’t very much of on a trip. Having the ability to slip away for a few minutes (or the rest of the night) helps me avoid being overstimulated - another thing that can send me tailspinning. My tip for all my anxious introverts out there? Push for your own space. It’s okay to ask. It’s not that you don’t like, or even love and adore, the other people you are traveling with. It’s just the way you’re wired. Anyone who knows you well and/or loves you will understand.
This will be the first trip I’ve taken a diffuser on. I’m VERY excited about my new personal diffuser, as diffusers have become such an important part of my daily life at home. This diffuser is PERFECT for the airport, plane, Airbnb, you name it. With just the push of the button you get an instant 30 seconds of essential oil mist. One thing that people often forget about is the power of smell. For someone who is already anxious, an unpleasant smell…such as one found in an airport or on a plane can be very triggering, which is another great plus of the personal diffuser. (Click here to shop my Young Living site.)
Hopefully some of these tips will prove helpful the next time you travel. I also want to point out that it’s okay to say no to a trip all together. I had to say no to an extremely fun trip that I would have LOVED to go on earlier this summer. It just didn’t feel like something I could mentally manage so soon after my breakdown. Do I wish I could have gone? Yes. But, do I think I made the right choice by staying home? Also, yes. Again, people who know you well and/or love you will understand and support your decision.
Safe travels!
-D
Tickled Pink
The color pink makes me genuinely happy. Burnt orange gives me cozy vibes. Dark green makes me think of winter and Christmas. So what?
So…there is an alternative medicine practice known as color therapy, which as the name suggests, utilizes color to treat certain mental illnesses. Now, as I’ve said approximately one million times before, I am not a doctor. Additionally, color therapy is a pretty controversial method of treatment. Google color therapy, and you will immediately see words like “pseudoscience” and questions such as “Does color therapy really work?”
The fact of the matter is I have no idea. But, I’m inclined to think there must be something to it. For an extremely girly example, take red lipstick. When you see a woman with a bold red lip you assume she is a badass. She didn’t just role out of bed and stumble in with a statement lip like that. She gives off a very put-together, passionate vibe, a don’t-mess-with-me vibe. In the context of color therapy, red is used to energize and stimulate, while blue is very much the opposite, promoting rest and calmness.
I recently became interested in color therapy, when a girlfriend of mine gave me a COLORS FOR GOOD bracelet. She knew I’d been going through a season of high anxiety, and so she gave me a blue bracelet, which is supposed to emit vibrations of peace. I absolutely love it. If nothing else, when I look down at my wrist I know the bracelet is meant to represent peace, which reminds me to make peace a priority in my day. But, how does color therapy actually work?
Based on my very limited research, color therapy can utilize the eyes and/or skin. Experiencing color through sight is probably the method most of us are more familiar with. From a decorating perspective, it totally makes sense to me. I specifically chose the colors in my home based on the overall vibe/feeling I wanted each room to have. I wanted my bedroom to feel light and airy. I wanted it to be void of any harsh or bold colors that could be distracting or overpowering. So, I went with a true white for the walls, comforter, etc. For my (small) bathroom, I wanted a dramatic effect. So, a bright emerald was my pick.
Experiencing the effects of color through the skin is a bit harder for me to comprehend. However, (again based on my limited research) color therapy can also occur by exposing different areas of skin to colored lights. If you’ve ever heard of red light therapy, this is a somewhat similar concept. Though red light therapy is more focused on physical attributes.
I plan to read a book (or five) about color therapy, and will likely be doing a much more in-depth blog post in the future. But, for now, I just wanted to share a potential option for treating anxiety, depression, etc. I’m all about thinking outside the box when it comes to managing my mental illnesses. If color therapy could potentially help me, you bet I’m interested! As always, talk with your doctor before pursuing any new treatment methods for mental illness.
-D (writing from my pink living room)
It’s A Small World
While I do LOVE the Disney World ride, this post isn’t about that. It’s about a comment that was recently made to a friend of mine. The comment really affected my friend, and it stuck with me, as well.
Like many comments that our friends and family members make, this was not ill-intentioned. If anything it was said with care and concern as motives. But, it still stung for my friend, and I understand why. The comment was something along the lines of, “You’ve made your world very small.” See? … Not a terribly offensive comment…yet, here I am writing a blog post about it. So, what’s the deal?
Sometimes, for one reason or another, we need to have a small world. It could be a short-lived phase, or a lifelong pursuit (consciously or unconsciously). Both my friend and I suffer from anxiety and depression, which I will be the first to say probably makes us a little extra sensitive to comments like the one above. And…that’s allowed. We are coming from a different perspective. For me personally, I have intentionally made my world smaller in recent months. I have needed space and genuine support. A lot of people do not have a place in my current, post-wedding, post-nervous breakdown world. It’s not because they are bad people necessarily, but they still may not fit with my current goal to be my healthiest, happiest self. This isn’t the first time I have created a small world for myself, and it probably won’t be the last.
My reaction to hearing about this comment was one of, “Yea, and that’s the way I want it.” Whereas, my friend’s was more of, “That’s not true.” What people don’t understand is that sometimes just getting out of the house is a big deal to those of us suffering from a mental illness. That event we attended? We probably thought about backing out seven times throughout the day, and we will probably need at least seven days before we are ready to attend another social gathering. Our world is big (to us) because we left the house and interacted with people. We showed up. There have been days, in recent months, where going to the grocery store and getting home without feeling panicked felt like a huge accomplishment to me. Does that mean my world is small, by most definitions? Yep!
What do I mean by a small world? You know those people who just seem to know everyone? They are involved in everything, and are always “on”. That person does not have a small world. Their world is filled with people, events, celebrations, etc., and that is great…for them. But, for me? It sounds torturous. I don’t want to be out every night of the week. I don’t want to leave my house everyday. There are days I want to turn my phone off and communicate with no one except for my husband and my dogs. AND. THAT. IS. GREAT. TOO.
Who decided that a small world is a bad thing? Or, for that matter what a “small world” even is… I could make a handful of arguments that having a “big” world isn’t the best. But, I won’t…because people need different things. A big world might be great for you, whereas it would be very detrimental for me. A small world works well for me at this point in my life, but for you it might feel suffocating. It could even cause you to feel disconnected and/or depressed…the same way that a big world could easily make me feel.
My point is this: sometimes people who suffer from anxiety (or depression, or fill in the blank) make their world small out of necessity. It might be something they are implementing temporarily in order to get through a tough season. OR…it may be the way they cope long-term. My hope is this: we stop labeling certain ways of living/socializing as good vs. bad. The way I choose to spend my time and share myself is up to me, in the same way that yours is up to you. It really just comes down to thinking BEFORE we comment on the way someone else is living their life.
I think this is where I say something cliché like, “Do you.”
-D
Welcome September!
I’ll save the “Welcome Fall!” blog post for the official first day of fall. Or…at the very least, until after Labor Day. But, don’t get it twisted…fall is in full force at Belle Hue Cottage, at least on the inside. Why do I love fall so much? You mean aside from the forecasted 90 degree temp tomorrow?
Ah, to be back living in Boone this time of year. There is nothing better than fall in the mountains.
Is it because I’m a basic (w)itch? (See what I did there?) Very likely. In fact as the beautiful Stassi Schroeder would say, I’m Next Level Basic, at least where fall is concerned. By the way, PSLs are available at Starbucks, as of 8/30. Yea, I know this, and yea, I’ll be getting one ASAP and documenting it on Instagram…obviously. Fall is the one season where all my needs to be unique and individualistic go out the window. I want all things cliché. I want to take a cute picture in a pumpkin patch, dressed in flannel. I want to litter my front porch with pumpkins of every size and color. I even want to love Hocus Pocus, which I do not. However, will I absolutely be watching the new one? You bet. Why? Because it’s what you do.
If you read my previous post, you know I decorated for fall first thing Monday morning. I couldn’t wait until September 1st. So, the week of September 1st had to do. Thankfully Vinnie loves fall too. So, he didn’t think I was completely psycho when he came home for lunch on Monday to a fully-decorated fall oasis. As I mentioned in my last post, I love fall colors. I love the taste and smell of pumpkin. I really love chilly weather. And, don’t even get me started on my collection of fall mugs.
Fall makes me think of tailgates. I LOVE a good tailgate. I went to college in the mountains of NC. So, we had some of the prettiest tailgates! Also, some of the coldest, which suited me just fine. My best friend also works in football. So, fall makes me think of game days with her in Cincinnati. GO BEARCATS!
It makes me think of cowgirl boots and cute hats, and you guessed it…flannel!
It makes me think of delicious food, friendsgivings and two of my favorite holidays…Halloween and Thanksgiving! I like Christmas and all, but I LOVE Halloween and Thanksgiving.
It also makes me think of the State Fair, which deserves a separate post all its own. (Look for that in early October.) I freaking LOVE the NC State Fair, y’all!
Needless to say, I am pumped that (official) fall is just around the corner. I will be squeezing in one more pool day this weekend though. Well…and one more beach trip next weekend. But, I’m like basically full committed.
Happy September, witches!
-D
Who Says You Can’t Decorate For Fall In August?
Okay, so here is the deal…typically I do try to wait until September to decorate for fall. However, I genuinely couldn’t wait one more second this year. So, I decorated on August 29th…at 8 AM. Sue me.
I usually decorate for summer in May. So, by the time September rolls around, I’m ready for a change of scenery. I’m particularly ready for a change in the weather after four months of scorching, Carolina days. Unfortunately, a trip to the attic won’t fix that problem though.
I think I love fall decor so much because it’s cozy, and I thrive on cozy vibes. I also love the color scheme: burnt orange, mustard yellow, deep red and nutmeg brown. It just screams “Here’s a cozy blanket and a warm gingersnap cookie.”
Seasonal decorating can be a little tricky though. If you aren’t careful, things can start to look cluttered quickly. At the same time, your sentimental, year-round decor still needs a home. I try to find a nice balance of seasonal and year-round items, while also alternating the year-round pieces I put away. For example, if I put something away to make room for summer decor, I’ll choose a different item to put away for fall. Pro tip: use the same storage container you just took your seasonal decor out of to store your year-round decor while not in use.
Speaking of tips, here are a few rules I decorate by:
Pair like items together.
Clusters of similar items make a design feel very intentional. For example, all the velvet pumpkins in this pic have a buddy. Additionally, in this and the below pic, you can see how placing multiple (and matching) mini pumpkins on a shelf, throughout a room, etc., makes the design feel cohesive.
Use smaller items, in bulk, to bring cohesion to your space, without needing to shift other items. Smaller decor can easily fit in front of year-round pieces. (See above, also)
Anyone else have a PILE of laundry shoved in a corner?
Hit the highlights.
Mantels are prime real estate for seasonal decor. You can easily switch out garlands, lights, etc.
Table scapes are another great option for creating that “wow” effect.
Place items based on room colors and overall aesthetic.
Because there is so much cream/beige in this space, I chose items with a similar color palate + just enough orange to create that fall vibe.
A little sign and some festive cocktail napkins bring just enough festivity to the bar cart, without interfering with its functionality.
I switched out a coffee sign for this “AUTUMN leaves & PUMPKINS please” sign. It fits both the color scheme and design aesthetic of this small gallery wall.
It’s in the details.
Dish towels are one of my favorite items to swap out seasonally. It will also make them last so much longer if you are only using them for a few weeks or months at a time.
Paper napkins are another great, CHEAP decor item. Yes, paper napkins can be decor + they are obviously functional too.
Hopefully these tips will help you as you begin decorating your own space for fall. Happy decorating, friends!
-D
NC Winery Tour: Chatham Hill
Winery number eight is in the books, and I’d say it was a success. Chatham Hill Winery was our closest winery yet! At just over 30 minutes away, I could go there all the time…and I might.
Located near downtown Cary, Chatham Hill is a quaint building with both indoor and outdoor seating. Since my average body temperature is around 200 degrees, we opted for indoor seating with air conditioning. I do not regret this decision! We did however, enjoy a fairly comfortable (when there was a breeze) outdoor lunch before the winery. Crosstown Pub & Grill is a cute little restaurant in downtown Cary, again, with indoor/outdoor seating. The food was delicious. I had a fried green tomato sandwich (one of my favorites), and a blood orange cider. Em had the turkey-guac burger and a Painkiller - she let me have a sip. So yummy!
As she always does, Em had researched our food options prior to our day trip. From what she learned, Chatham Hill does offer charcuterie boards (yum!), but we decided to opt for something a little heavier.
The winery was just a five minute drive from Crosstown. When we arrived we were greeted by the bartender, who gave us the tasting details. This tasting was a little pricier than most we have done so far. However, you do get a souvenir wine glass. So, that’s something. We had the option of a semi-sweet or dry tasting. Em obviously chose the dry, but surprisingly I did too. Again…no regrets.
We tried five wines as a part of the tasting, four of which we really liked, three of which we really really liked and two of which we bought. There was a time, not too long ago that I didn’t love Chardonnay. But, wouldn’t you know it…I brought home a bottle of the Chardonnay and the Merlot (my favorite red). Em brought home a bottle of the Sauvignon Blanc and the Merlot. I can’t speak for her, but both of my bottles are gone. Still…no regrets.
The one wine we didn’t care for as much was the Rubio - not bad, just not our favorite. Overall though, this was probably one of my favorite tastings so far, taste-wise. The bartender also let us try a raspberry dessert wine that was delish! It tasted just like raspberries.
We sat at the bar (emphasis on sat because we have come to find that not all tastings have seating). We very much prefer when there is seating. It seems to slow the pace of the tasting, and we really took it slow this time. We had a great time chatting in between tastes, and ended up deciding to stay and have a glass of wine after the tasting. We both opted for white, and the opposite of the white we purchased. So, I got a glass of the Sauvignon Blanc, and Em got a glass of the Chardonnay.
Our bartender was kind enough to not only double as our photographer, but she took us back behind the bar for a backdrop of wine barrels…is there anything better? This space was actually huge/a fantastic spot for events, which was surprising because the building looks pretty small when you see it from the front.
We had a great time at Chatham Hill. Our one complaint, just like with winery number seven, was no gift shop, but hey…you win some you lose some. Plus, we did get to bring home our wine glasses. So, not a total loss souvenir-wise. Cheers to you Chatham Hill Winery! (I’m sure I’ll be back!)
-D
Yes. I Have Phone Anxiety & No, I Don’t Need Your Validation.
Slightly longer title than normal…I’m a little passionate about this topic. I posted a TikTok earlier this week about phone anxiety that was very lighthearted and fun, but the reality is it’s been a little bit of a touchy subject for me in the past.
The best feeling.
We live in an age where availability by phone is expected. It is expected by your boss, by your friends, your family, your credit card company, etc. If you don’t answer the first time, you will often get a follow-up call, text, email (sent from iPhone), etc. I don’t mean to sound dramatic, but sometimes it turns into downright harassment.
As with general anxiety, it took me quite a while to put a name to my symptoms. But, I now know that I have what’s called, phone anxiety. Yes, this is an actual thing that many people suffer from. There are lots of phobias, of just about everything under the sun. So, to be honest, I’m not sure why phone anxiety is such a hard concept for some people to process, but it is. I once had a family member comment that they too have anxiety, and can still talk on the phone. This was one of the more hurtful statements I’ve ever encountered regarding my anxiety, and I don’t even think it was meant maliciously. Anxiety does not look the same for everyone, and the idea that me having a different symptom than my family member somehow made mine invalid has been very hard for me to get over.
To be honest, having phone anxiety can be pretty embarrassing. People are very quick to think you’re avoiding them or just being difficult. They cast judgement, disregarding your symptoms as silly or ridiculous. Well, guess what? I think it is silly and ridiculous and plain mean to diminish what someone else feels just because you don’t understand it. Having phone anxiety has affected numerous friendships of mine over the years, and it has been hurtful (probably on both sides). For a long time, I didn’t know how to express that I didn’t want to talk on the phone. I didn’t want to FaceTime. How do you say that to your friend or family member? It can come off like, “I don’t want to talk to you.” That isn’t at all the case, usually.
When people don’t understand you or your actions things can go sideways quickly, which is why I am so adamant about shedding light on this topic. Here are some of the thoughts and feelings that a person suffering with phone anxiety might experience:
Dread at the thought of participating in a phone call or FaceTime conversation.
Stress over maintaining the conversation and avoiding awkward pauses or silence.
Panic when receiving an unexpected phone call/FaceTime. A) it can feel intrusive. B) immediate worst-case scenarios can begin running through your head…someone is hurt, someone has died…etc.
Feeling the need to postpone opening text messages or voicemails due to anxiety surrounding the need to respond.
Overanalyzing text messages or voicemails, as well as the appropriate response.
The second best feeling.
It’s very important, as with general anxiety, to clearly express your needs and boundaries to friends and family. Let those closest to you know that you would typically prefer not to talk on the phone. Let them know you never want to video chat. Advise them to always text you first, and avoid phone calls that can be text messages. Two of my biggest pet peeves are phone calls that should be text messages and meetings that should be emails. (The latter was of course a much bigger issue when I was in the corporate arena.) I have lost all patience with the lack of respect for the introverts of the world and lack of thought for those of us who have social anxiety.
Phone anxiety and social anxiety are very similar in my opinion. Both involve you having to be “on”. There is an expectation that you be friendly, politically correct, pleasant, etc. These obviously aren’t bad things to be. But, sometimes (more often for some of us than others) we need the space and freedom to just be…to not have to worry about every word that is coming out of our mouths.
These are some of the methods I have used to help manage my phone anxiety:
Removing the FaceTime app from my phone.
Keeping my phone in Do Not Disturb.
Letting my friends and family know that I am best reached by text, not a phone call or FaceTime.
Letting those I communicate with most often know that they should not expect an immediate response from me.
Scheduling phone calls or FaceTime dates with friends/fam who live in different cities or states. The majority of my friends actually don’t live in my city. So, I would hardly ever get to talk with them if we didn’t utilize the phone.
I’d like to elaborate a bit further on this last bullet. I have several friends who come to mind when I think about scheduling phone calls or FaceTimes. It is so helpful for me to know that, for example, on Thursday night I’m going to be talking with so-and-so at 6 pm. As opposed to, so-and-so just FaceTiming me out of the blue while I’m in the grocery store, or in the middle of dinner, or in the bathroom. This removes any pressure because there is an agreed upon time that we have both set aside to talk. I know this is coming. I can prepare in any number of ways. I can pour a glass of wine, take a Xanax, schedule some downtime before or after, etc. I can also make sure I’m in a good spot to talk and that my phone is charged.
Perhaps there is a generational element to phone anxiety. Gen Z, for example, seems to be very into FaceTime. But, I think the key here is respect. If you know someone does not like to talk on the phone…don’t call them unless you absolutely have to. If you know someone doesn’t answer FaceTime calls…don’t FaceTime them 10 times and then get upset they haven’t answered you. This is common courtesy and common sense, frankly. But…as we all know, not everyone has common sense. Not everyone is going to care about your needs or respect your boundaries. So, what then? Below, are several ways to handle these types of people:
Stop answering phone calls/FaceTimes. If someone calls you or FaceTimes you even though they know you don’t like it, you have every right to ignore them.
Respond to phone calls/FaceTimes with a text message. Drive home your point that text is how you would prefer to communicate.
Do NOT apologize for taking “too long” to respond or being “difficult to get ahold of”. When and if you respond is your prerogative. It’s one of your basic human rights for crying out loud.
BLOCK that number. If someone calls you multiple times in a row, rage texts you, etc., …block that number and take back control of your phone.
There is a time and a place for a phone call or FaceTime, but for some people, it isn’t very often. We have to stop just assuming that it is acceptable to call and/or FaceTime anyone and everyone at any time of day. We have to start respecting people’s needs and boundaries, especially people we love.
-D
Friendship Fumbles
Do you have a lifelong friend? A bestie from college, or high school, or even elementary school? Maybe you have all three! Congrats! Seriously. Maintaining friendships over years, not to mention decades, is a lot of work. Like a marriage or any other relationship, a friendship takes effort. Sometimes it means putting someone else’s needs before your own. True friendship means showing up when it is not convenient, and being loyal through the fun, happy times AND the difficult, sad ones.
I have so much to say on the subject of friendship… Probably because it has been an interesting year friendship-wise. Maintaining adult friendships can be tricky, and that has never been more clear to me than this past year. It’s so easy when you’re eight and you see your friends five days a week at recess. Or, when you’re 18, and you see your friends multiple times a week for class or to study or just to hang out. But, what happens at 25, or 28, or 32? What happens when you are in a different phase of life than your friend? What happens when you no longer live close by? What happens when you discover that your standards, morals and beliefs are more different than you once thought?
If you’ve been following me for a bit, you probably know that I did NOT enjoy my wedding planning experience. As someone who got married in her 30s, I had a long time to dream about what that time in my life would look like. I always knew I’d have a big wedding party, but add on five sisters-in-law (who I adore and definitely wanted by my side) and big became ridiculous. Fourteen…I had fourteen bridesmaids, and V had fourteen groomsmen. Now listen…you and I are friends. So, I’m going to give you the inside scoop…NEVER! Under any circumstance whatsoever…have fourteen bridesmaids. Please trust me on this. It’s too many. I would also argue that it is impossible to have fourteen people that you are truly on a bridesmaid-level with.
I plan to go a lot more in depth regarding my wedding planning experience at a later time, but for now let’s hone in on the importance of quality over quantity. As humans, we have a limited capacity. No matter how hard I may try, I cannot be a best friend to all of my friends. I cannot be everything to everyone, all at once. This has been a hard lesson for me to learn. However, the older I get and the more weddings I plan (just the one), the more I realize that there are levels of friendship, and not everyone has to be on level 10.
So many factors contribute to the quality of a friendship: time, experiences, personalities, needs, expectations, effort…the list goes on. Plus, every friendship is different. Knowing someone for 15 years does not automatically make you close friends. It doesn’t mean an immediate pass to best friend level simply based on time known. On the other hand, you might consider someone your best friend after only a few months of knowing them. Here’s the thing, best friends behave differently than friends AND THAT IS OKAY (saying this to myself, as well). When I chose my fourteen besties, I had an expectation they were going to treat me like one of their best friends. This was an unspoken (HUGE MISTAKE on my part) and honestly, unconscious expectation that I didn’t even realize I had until it wasn’t being met by some of my girls.
Expectation setting is so important, in wedding planning and in life. Sometimes, rarely, everything works out perfectly. Based on either the amount of time someone has known you or how in tune the two of you are, expectations may never need to be spoken. They are just understood and respected. Other times when personalities, needs, values, etc. differ, expectations need to be very clearly communicated. And, then sometimes you end up with someone who does not really care about your expectations or boundaries. That’s when you kick them to the curb.
Here’s what I have learned about friendship:
Your best friends will show you who they are. They will show you with their actions and their willingness to be inconvenienced for you. They will show you when you need them the most. Also, if someone shows you y’all aren’t best friends, that isn’t necessarily bad. As long as you’re both on the same page, you can continue with a healthy friendship at the appropriate level AND with the appropriate expectations.
When someone goes above and beyond for me, it makes me want to go above and beyond for them. Not everyone feels the same way, which can lead to feelings of resentment and being undervalued.
The older I get, the smaller my circle becomes, and that’s actually really awesome. I know who my people are more than ever before, and I can pour into them. This “pruning” process is totally normal.
Growing closer to your best friends, does not have to mean your other friendships suffer. As long as everyone is on the same page regarding the friendship, things will be just fine. But, this involves expectation setting, and perhaps an awkward conversation or two.
I have the world’s greatest best friend. I met her when I was 21 years old. She is the complete opposite of me in almost every way, but she is also my soulmate…at least my girl soulmate. She holds the title of best friend in my life even though I haven’t known her the longest, even though we live in different states and have very different personalities and preferences. I know I can count on her for anything, and I know she understands me. She is my family. The more and more best friend relationships I observe, the more I realize that she is a rarity, and I am so grateful for her.
I watched someone very close to me lose a best friend recently, and it was extremely difficult to witness. Let me tell you a few things that a best friend is not…a best friend is not selfish. They will never seek to diminish you. They will not speak ill of you or talk about you behind your back. They will not cause unnecessary drama in your life. They will not lie to you, and they will not allow narcissistic tendencies to repeatedly harm the relationship. (Side note: narcissists don’t have best friends. They are their own best friend and number one priority.) A best friend does not consistently forget about things that are important to you. A best friend does not refuse to apologize when they have hurt you. A best friend does not call you names.
Takeaway: Your time is valuable. Your capacity is limited. Your mental and emotional health are important. So, set the expectations. Have the difficult conversations. End the toxic relationships. You deserve to have amazing friendships at every level!
-D
I Am Not Too Old…
…to play with LEGO sets. Right? I have to be honest, based on the past few things I have built, LEGO sets are actually pretty complicated. Obviously there are easier sets that are more kid-friendly than the Taj Mahal, for example, but these things are no joke, y’all.
I have always liked LEGO products. It’s like with coloring. I’ve never outgrown my love for a good coloring book and a fresh box of crayons. Same with the LEGO brand. There really is a set for every stage of life. I guess that means we’re in the Taj Mahal stage of life, which sounds a little intimidating. Actually, this stage of life is very intimidating. I just quit my corporate job and started a new business, after one of the most stressful seasons of my life. Thankfully, I have the most amazing man by my side, but yea…I’d say we are both a little intimidated by the season ahead.
under construction
If you’ve been following along, you may know that I had a nervous breakdown in April. (I’m trying to come to terms with actually calling it that). It feels dramatic, but in reality it was. As I tried to grasp at every coping mechanism and anxiety-reducing exercise I could think of, I stumbled across the LEGO section in Target. I mentioned to V that LEGO sets were really relaxing to me. As it turns out, I definitely picked the right guy…he loves them to. We bought a set right then and there - a set I had had my eye on for literally years.
I’m a HUGE FRIENDS fanatic. The word “fan” really doesn’t adequately describe me. So, naturally I was thrilled when I first saw the Central Perk LEGO set on the market. It’s around fifty bucks. So, for a long time I told myself I didn’t need to spend fifty dollars on a LEGO set inspired by my favorite TV show. But, in April…V and I decided that was exactly what I (we) needed to do.
I put together the entire set in one afternoon. It took around five hours or so, but it was so much fun. I put on one of my favorite podcasts and sat at the dining room table until I finished. It wasn’t long…maybe a week or two, until V decided we needed a Harry Potter LEGO set. This time we did it together. We would trade off every other bag. One person would find the pieces and hand them to the “builder”, who would then actually assemble them. We broke Harry Potter up over several nights. It was a particularly interesting set to piece together because it includes a train.
LEGO pieces aren’t just squares and rectangles anymore, y’all. Which brings me to the Taj…
My dad and I have always said we wanted to visit the Taj Mahal together before we die. So, when he found out there was a Taj Mahal LEGO set, he immediately insisted on buying it for us. With over 2,000 pieces, this has been our biggest project so far. It took quite a few nights and afternoons, but what better way to spend a night or afternoon, right?
Now that it’s finished we have it displayed on our dining room table. At some point, down the road, I’d love to have a built-in book shelf filled with nothing but completed LEGO sets from over the years. How cool right? Enneagram 4 reporting for duty with a unique idea!
There’s of course a design aspect that is appealing to me about LEGO sets, but what I appreciate most about them is their ability to distract me. If I’m feeling anxious, the very worst thing I can do is sit still. If I focus on my anxiety, it usually just gets worse. With a project like a LEGO set, I have something to do with my hands. Plus, my brain is hard at work. (I would just like to say that whoever comes up with LEGO designs is a GENIUS, and probably getting paid BANK! …Why was this not a major option in college?!) Maybe it will be by the time V and I have college-aged kids. Then we can get a discount on the LEGO brand…it’s a good idea. I know.
We are currently on the hunt for our next LEGO project. We also have compiled a wishlist of sets. LEGO products can be pretty pricey. So, for now, we’ll just hope the dream that we wish (to own the Disney Castle set) comes true.
-D
Sunflower Summers
It will come as no surprise to my friends and family that summer is not my favorite season. In fact, depending on the day and how far above 90 degrees it is, it might be my least favorite. BUT, included on the very short list of things I love about summer are sunflowers.
I absolutely adore sunflowers. They have almost always been my favorite (except for that fling I had with hibiscuses that time). My Granddaddy was an avid gardener whose love language, I’m pretty certain, was giving gifts. And, by gifts I mean fresh produce…or, in my case, flowers. Every summer, as far back as I can remember, he would plant sunflowers in late summer just for me. Sometimes he would even get creative and plant some that were orange or SUPER HUGE. He loved to give me updates on how they were doing and when would be the best time to come take pictures.
Granddaddy’s sunflowers.
Sunflowers will always hold such a special place in my heart because of him. I like to incorporate them whenever and wherever I can. For example, I used sunflowers to honor the memory of each of my grandparents at my wedding. I couldn’t think of anything more fitting. I’d say my Granddaddy was probably looking down smiling. But, let’s be real…he was probably looking down thinking they weren’t big enough, and he was probably right!
There were four chairs across the front row, each with a single sunflower wrapped in white ribbon for each of my four grandparents.
My husband and I also took our engagement pictures in a giant sunflower field in Ohio (Loveland, Ohio, ironically). Once again, I couldn’t think of a more perfect setting to celebrate such a monumental moment. Sunflowers feel like a hug to me. A hug from my Granddaddy. They are so bright and cheery, and they make for the best backgrounds.
If you’re local (Raleigh, NC), then I feel certain you know about the giant sunflower display at Dorothea Dix Park every summer. (I’ve actually never been, and I waited too late this year.) But, did you know about the smaller, slightly more colorful, sunflower field at the NC Museum of Art? It’s just darling. From what I understand, it is quite a bit smaller than the field at Dorothea Dix. But, when it’s approximately 1,000 degrees outside…well, let’s just say I wasn’t mad that it was a quicker excursion.
You can see some of the sculptures I mention below in the background.
Last week my mom and I visited Ann and Jim Goodnight Museum Park at the NC Museum of Art. In addition to sunflowers, the park has some very unique sculptures and Insta-worthy backdrops that I hope to go back and check out…on a much cooler day. Just a short, scenic walk from the parking lot is the 2.5-acre field of sunflowers, plus cosmos and zinnias, giving it a unique edge over your typical sunflower field.
Sunflower fields have become quite trendy over the last few years. It seems like every summer Instagram is flooded with beautiful pictures of perfectly-posed people living their best lives in a sunflower field. In fact, I can guarantee that almost anywhere you live…there is probably a photoshoot-worthy sunflower field calling your name.
The first summer after my Granddaddy passed away, I was in Delaware on vacation when my parents texted me the below picture.
One random sunflower stalk that meant the whole world to me.
I distinctly remember being at dinner, and being less than okay…in the best way, when I got that text. It felt like my Granddaddy had sent a little reminder from heaven that even though he wouldn’t be there to plant sunflowers for me anymore, I would always have a piece of him, a memory, a moment when I see a sunflower.
This is at the end of that same summer.
That one little sunflower was the first of more than ten that would bloom over the course of the summer. My mom dried out two of the sunflowers and put them in a shadow box for me. Now I’ll always have the very last sunflowers Granddaddy ever grew. Rest assured…if my house ever catches on fire…this is one of the first things I’ll be grabbing.
What are some of your favorite things about summer?
-D
NC Winery Tour: Gregory Vineyards
I don’t know that there is anything more satisfying than sipping wine on a summer afternoon with your oldest and dearest friend (Emily). Thankfully, this is something I get to experience pretty often.
A random winery trip in 2020, somehow turned into a 20-year-plan. The plan is simple: visit every North Carolina winery by the time we turn 50. The only thing that has NOT been simple so far, is determining exactly how many North Carolina wineries there are. Our research has led us to several different answers. But, for now, we can confirm that we have been to seven. Maybe I’ll do a post recapping the first six, but for now let’s talk about number seven, Gregory Vineyards. If you’re from the Raleigh area you might be familiar with a little town called Angier…you also might not be. With less than six thousand residents, Angier is a quaint little place and the perfect afternoon escape from busy, ever-growing Raleigh.
It took us about an hour, maybe a little less, to get from North Raleigh to Angier. We stopped for lunch in its sweet, little downtown. (Gregory Vineyards does have a restaurant, but it is only open for dinner from 5-9 pm). We decided to try Brick and Mortar Grill, a cute, corner restaurant, with easy parking right across the street.
I had the Southwest Salad (no chicken) and Em had the Mediterranean Salad (w/ shrimp instead of chicken). In keeping with the theme of the day, we both ordered a glass of Pinot Grigio, as well. Everything was delish!
After lunch we headed over to the Vineyard, which was only a short drive away. It was beautiful. Had it not been a sizzling summer day in the South, we would have loved to explore a little. But, alas…we stayed where the air conditioning was pumping.
Somehow I managed to leave without a single photo of the view from the tasting room, but let me paint the picture. There is a beautiful pond with a peninsula where people like to take pictures, according to our waiter. Surrounding the pond on two sides, is the vineyard. It’s lovely.
But, on to the important stuff…they provided snacks. We’ve found that sometimes wineries do, and sometimes they don’t. It’s a game changer though. First, if you’re serving alcohol…food is never a bad idea. Second, a pretzel, cracker, etc. is a great palate cleanser.
YAY! Snacks!
The tasting takes place in the restaurant (Lane’s Seafood & Steak House). It has a dark, fancy-rustic vibe. I imagine at night it’s very romantic. Our waiter was OUTSTANDING. (Shoutout to Nate! We love you!) He greeted us immediately after we arrived, asked if we were wanting to do a tasting and had us seated and sipping within minutes.
Just $10 to try all of the above. You can’t beat it.
We decided it was probably a good idea to try them all. However, you can try just the unfortified wines (no brandy), or just the brandy wines if you’d like. These are muscadine wines, so they are definitely on the sweeter side. But, Em much prefers dry wines, and she still enjoyed them. So, even if sweet wines aren’t your thing…give these a try.
My favorite unfortified wine was Sunset. Peaches are my favorite fruit and this one had a great peach flavor. So yummy and refreshing! I definitely came home with a bottle. At just $12, I couldn’t say no.
Now, let’s talk about these brandy wines. Let me start by saying, yes. Yes, yes. These are delicious, and strong. You can definitely taste the brandy. In fact, if I hadn’t known better, I might have thought I was drinking a really yummy liquor. My two favorites were Buckhead Billy (36 Proof) and Fearless (40 Proof). I also came home with a bottle…of both. I can assure you that $16 a piece for these bottles is a great price though. So, I didn’t feel too bad about it.
I also came home with a jar of Hot Pepper Jelly. We poured it over cream cheese and had it with pita chips…literally the best thing ever.
10/10 would recommend!
We had a great afternoon at Gregory Vineyards. Vinnie and I are actually thinking about taking my parents there for dinner to celebrate their recent retirements. According to Nate, the food is to die for…and I believe him. I will obviously report back!
I think this picture qualifies for a “Low-quality pic, high quality afternoon,” type of caption.
The only thing missing from this winery was a gift shop. Em and I REALLY like a gift shop. I personally try to collect a Christmas ornament and/or magnet from every winery we go to. Aside from that one missing element, it was an excellent experience. One more thing…they have a 100 sanitation score. According to Nate, that has been the case the entire seven years he’s worked there. My little OCD heart REALLY appreciates a 100 sanitation score. I actually can’t even remember when I’ve seen one before. Cheers to you Gregory Vineyards!
-D