Bill

Bill Hennessey.... That name represents my living brother and father, along with my grandfather who recently passed this June. They are all William James Hennessey's and all different roles in my life and that of others. My "Grampa" was WJH, Jr., and it didn't take long for my slurred pronunciation of Grandpa,  to forever become Grampa.  Yesterday, however, he was referred to as Major William James Hennessey, Jr., a respected military man with many accomplishments, most of which involved being a superb helicopter pilot. Well into retirement people would still seek him out to fly and the very worn helmet on display proved just that. Lots of miles on those headphones, too.

In June of this year, my grandmother who I simply call "Suzanne" started the planning of what became a beautiful day to celebrate him,  despite the heavy rain. Allow me to digress for a moment. By blood, Suzanne is not my grandmother, but has been with my grandfather for over 30 years. My dad's mother, Ilse, sadly passed away in the 70's. Apparently Bill Hennessey, Jr. had a thing for beautiful women because Ilse was a looker, just like Suzanne. Over the past several months (and years) I have admired Suzanne for several reasons. She is always fun, she is always interested in what's happening with her grandchildren, and she is one of the strongest people I know. 

Ilse

In my grandfathers later years he struggled with dementia. His ability to tell military stories became a little more...interesting... as it started effecting his every day life. As you can imagine it also effected Suzanne's. When speaking with her, she always was able to share her days with laughter and in turn, kept a positive outlook on her relationship with my grandfather. She is truly amazing. Yesterday at Arlington National Cemetery was no different. 

Having a few months to grieve over the loss of my Grampa - a man that always had such a distinct scent of aftershave, a story about going hunting or fishing, and a laugh you would never forget - I thought the day would be somewhat easier with that extra time.

Me and Suzanne

First of all, the Hennessey side of my family includes quite the bunch. Get us together and we are loud, slightly inappropriate, have stories for days, and are incredibly funny. Yes, we think we are really funny. All of us. As a spectator you would find us amusing or obnoxious. Throw in Bill Hennessey, Jr.'s drink of choice - the martini - and you've got yourself a circus. I hadn't seen many of this side of the family in a while, so I didn't know what to expect, and honestly the ceremony hit me hard.  It was quite the day. Arlington was both peacefully beautiful and ruggedly eye opening. I miss him. I miss his stories. I am incredibly saddened by the ones I do not know. The military salute to his career was amazing. It was outstanding really - the level of precision along with the respect that was given to his name is really something. My mother had asked Suzanne if we were able to take pictures. Receiving such an honor, she decided to hire a photographer. As you know, I love pictures as memories. This time would be no different. Though quickly I realized I wanted to capture a few moments in a different way. I am so happy to have this.

Upon completion of the folding of the flag, Suzanne was presented it on behalf of the President of the United States. The words said to her in addition seemed standard and official, yet were so direct in thanks to his service, it gave me chills. I was so very thankful to be part of the service and so grateful for the armed military men who gave their day to honoring my grandfather. While traveling to the grave site, one of them even lost a shoe and continued traveling with the group in the pouring down rain. I understand that is expected, but again the amount of precision and excellence that was paid tribute was really cool to see.

We continued to celebrate his life at Bridges on the Kent Narrows, an area that I grew up in for 15+ years. I quickly found plenty of crab cakes, a glass of wine, and relatives with great stories to share. Hanging out with Carol, my mother, was icing on the cake. With my brother Billy, WJH the fourth, looking exactly like my grandfather, we found the time for several photo opps. He is such a ham.

Same with my sisters and the rest of the crowd. We are all so spread out over the east coast, the camera flashes were flying. It was a fast 24 hours in Maryland and Virginia, but truly a special day for everyone. Thank you for all the kind words and interest in my Grampa. He was a beast!

My siblings and Mom - Whitney, Billy, Carol, me, and Lindsay

Click HERE for the video link

SOLD

Around this time last year I was headed to Winston-Salem for the nuptials of Ben and Kelly Martin. Kelly asked me to make them a painting as a wedding gift. That resulted in one of my favorite pieces to date and now hangs in their home. It's one year later and she approached me again to make a new painting for her sister as a Christmas present. Different colors and technique, but same idea. After posting the painting on Instagram today, I got a few more bites for the holiday season. Thank you to those of you who are spreading the word about Hennessey in the Home.

Join in on the fun and give the gift of local art this year!

Give the gift of local art this Christmas! 30x30 #SOLD #commissioned #acrylic @hennesseyinthehome

A photo posted by Lacey Hennessey (@lhennessey2) on Dec 12, 2014 at 5:46am PST

If you can't beat 'em, join 'em

At 10pm tonight girls everywhere will instantly get motivated to hit the gym. It's the Victoria Secret Fashion show on CBS. Those who know me well would tell you that I have a problem when it comes to buying VS items. You won't find a single delicate of mine (or bathing suit) that isn't from the secret land and it's starting to stretch into my workout apparel (pun intended). Someone somewhere in a marketing department is laughing at me, saying "we got her again". With every $10 gift, free pantie card, or BOGO offer sent in the mail I begin to wonder what I need. With more underwear and bras than one person should ever own, I now justify my spending with athletics {seriously though, if you haven't tried the new zip-up sports bra, you are missing out. And don't even get me started on the capri legging}. 

With my Angels card near by and a glass of wine in hand, I'll be watching, pretending my 5 foot 3, American frame resembles the bod of an Adriana Lima or Alessandra Ambrosio. One can dream.

#VictoriaSecretFashionShow. See you #betches on the runway! 10pm. @kellypmartin #iwish #motivation

A photo posted by Lacey Hennessey (@lhennessey2) on Dec 12, 2014 at 5:04am PST

We Win

Until next year Death Valley...

#MCM

If you're on any type of social media you have probably seen a member of the youth use #MCM.

Urban Dictionary classifies #MCM as a short term to say MAN CRUSH MONDAY while posting a picture of a good looking guy, saying he's your crush for the current Monday. They go on to say that it brightens up Monday's for all the youth around the globe! A hefty statement that one. "Brightening youth around the GLOBE". Really? Where some #MCM's have gotten a chuckle out of me (Examples: Instagrams that of TheFatJewish, Betches, and GirlWithNoJob), most get the continuous scroll - the modern day digital eye roll. Sorry betch, no "likes" here. It seems, according to the UD definition and my lack of #MCM enthusiasm, that I'm officially old. At the ripe age of 28 I have never used a #MCM. Perhaps your #MCM is my #TBT. Now there's a thought. And God knows I love a good #TBT.  Whether it's from a year ago or the early 90's, I'll post it.

It appears that I post everything on social media. An Instagram also connected to Twitter. Twitter connected to a blog post. A blog post linking to my Facebook. Facebook linking to my LinkedIn. And a Snapchat because I would never post it on LinkedIn. You can literally keep in touch with me without literally keeping in touch with me. It's amazing, terrible, and my fault all at the same time. Amazing, because lets be honest, you don't want to keep in touch with everyone. Terrible, because people actually believe they know what you're up to, and my fault because I can't stop sharing. 

I post almost everything. You will not see me label my current #ManCrushMonday on Instagram or on any of the above sites. You also won't know how it felt to finish my half marathon. You may know I did one, but you won't know the details in all my glory. You won't hear about the hilarious thing that happened to me today, or who came home in our Uber the other night. Those gems only come up in conversation. Such as my #MCM. Look at that kids. The old lady used it again! What if we all posted our #TBT of an old #MCM? #BreakTheInternet is trending. Go ahead ladies, throw that on there. I'm sure your ex-boyfriend would love a tagged photo and I'm sure you'd get plenty of likes, and double the views. Everyone loves a good visual disaster these days. Guys don't feel left out, Wednesdays are just around the corner. Show your love with a hashtag this season! Give her the #WCW she's been waiting for. 

Me? I'd prefer a kiss. They can never go wrong with a kiss. With hearts on the eyes and man crushes on the mind... happy Monday! Smooches.

The "Package"

Hennessey children, whether in the direct family or a product of one, love the spotlight. My niece Sawyer is living proof. At the age of 3 she is mastering the art of music videos in the car...something she clearly gets from "Crazy Aunt Lacey". She's a pro with an iPhone, too, so watchout Snapchat! The icing on the cake to this musical gem is the squeaky voice at the end asking if she can send a "package" through the video to her daddy. Love her! I only hope these performances make it to T-Swift!

Twerk After Work

Its a crime to have this much fun working...I mean Crunking Out! Lol #CrunkCardioLive #ShaunaMarie #DjKuriousGeorge

A video posted by Crunk Cardio® (@crunkcardio) on Nov 11, 2014 at 8:19pm PST

I no longer have a case of the Monday's. Thanks to Crunk Cardio, the first day back to work receives a cushion that evening with 1 hour of crunk. What's that you may say? Picture a cup of hot chocolate. Now throw in a few marshmallows. That's my Crunk Cardio class. My friends and I stick out like a sore thumb, but slowly and surely we are melting into the class and fitting right in. With a LIVE DJ, dimmed lights with colored accents, and always different dance moves, it's like I'm at a bar having the time of my life...sober. 


It's no surprise to hear that I love to dance. If you know me, you've seen it. If  you don't, picture the last wedding you went to, or even a bar with a dance floor. Now think of the one idiot who couldn't decide if she was on Dancing with the Stars, in the background of the hottest rap video, or cousins with Elaine from Seinfeld. That's me. When I hear music my body just starts moving. Like my singing voice, my moves could use some fine tuning, but with many weeks under my belt, I'd say there's been some improvement. 

About a year or so ago I found Crunk Cardio in Spartanburg. It was amazing. I had never sweat so much in 1 hour and to make it even better, it was and is, $5. The trip to Spartanburg was a little taxing so I only went back a few times. I kept my name on the email list and thankfully so. I received an email saying they were coming to Greenville! If it's Monday, I'm there. With the assistance of Instagram and Facebook, the fan base has grown. Now we roll 10-15 deep in there sometimes. I hope they like their marshmallows.  Thinking they do. Holler if you want to join!

Oooooohhh Baby, Baby Get Up On This!!! #CrunkCardioLive #ShaunaMarie #DjKuriousGeorge #HOTTEST #HipHopDanceParty #HipHop #dance #fitness #fitlife

A video posted by Crunk Cardio® (@crunkcardio) on Nov 11, 2014 at 7:42pm PST

You've NEVER experienced a hip hop dance party like THIIIIISSSSS!!!! For Classes & Booking 864-621-7326 #crunkcardiolive #shaunamarie

A video posted by Crunk Cardio® (@crunkcardio) on Oct 10, 2014 at 5:46am PDT

Follow them on Facbeook - https://www.facebook.com/crunkcardio

Old Bae

28 years ago, at roughly 9:30am, my mother was blessed with her third daughter. That golden ray of sunshine right there is me. She thought it would be her last, so she referred to me as her angel and always dressed me in white. Though 2 years later the twinkle of her eye, William James Hennessey IV, arrived. That's neither here nor there. Soon she would realize that "angel" was of a different breed. Calling constantly, giving every detail to every story, and showing pictures to supplement all of the above. I am more a bug in her ear than anything else.

When I turned 25 I remember calling her on my birthday and was almost having somewhat of a quarter-life crisis. 

Do you remember the game MASH that you played as a kid? It was a fortune telling game for your future. In middle school when I played MASH and was asked for an age for certain life events, my choices were typically 22, 23, 24....maybe 23, 24, 25. 


So when speaking to my mother at 25 and having what appeared to be nothing accomplished, you can imagine the dismay. I had just left a relationship, I was moving for the 1 millionth time, was in a fun job but made beans for a living (so to speak), was driving a car not attached to my name, etc., etc. I was quickly reminded that I played MASH in a spiral notebook accompanied by a mechanical pencil, while sitting on a yellow bus, with a Walkman attached to my Limited Too bell-bottom jeans. At least we have made progress in a few categories.

At 28 I can't help but think about that conversation had a few years ago and where things have gone/what's "crossed off the list". With hundreds, probably thousands, of pictures attached to the years on Facebook it's easy to take a glance. 26 was good, 27 was better, and I am hoping this year will be the best. Just looking ahead at the next few months there are some pretty cool things around the corner. 

When discussing my upcoming birthday with a friend, he made reference to us both being Libras. I have never put much thought into my zodiac sign, but then he shared this with me (taken from here):

*****

These people are rarely lazy.  It is pretty unusual for them to express anger, but when they do it is usually a storm. They nailed that last one. 

They are extremely positive and decisive in all their thoughts and actions. Good natured and loving, they enjoy talking to people Probably too much, I know my short stories are long, yet can also be very attentive listeners. 

They are often very psychic, have curious presentiments, and yet so strongly endowed are they with the desire to reason out everything, that their love of exact proof* usually overwhelms their psychic powers. *This was my "AhHa" moment. I get it now. I was born that way. 

LIBRA is the zodiac sign of Partnership. These people's energies are focused on melding and combining with others; they are at their best in personal relationships. Born under the sign of the Scales, they strive for balance and harmony and are happiest when their environment is ordered and serene. Fact: I have always found, for me, it is easier to offer forgiveness then to ask for it.

More:http://www.gotohoroscope.com/libra-meanings.html

*****

Kinda scary close on all fronts, the good and the bad. What's even more interesting is looking at other people and the traits aligned with their sign. I guess it's that curiosity that got the best of me, but most of the descriptions were spot on. Take a look for yourself.

I plan to spend 28 with those that care, judge me not, look to laugh, and are open to anything. Happy Birthday to me...and the rest of you Libra betches.

Loving these kids for putting together a fun night of celebrating. xoxo

Free Fallin'

7 years ago almost to the day, I jumped out of a perfectly good airplane at 14,000 feet. It feels about that time to do it again. The first time was spontaneous and the experience was shared with some of the most chill, genuine friends I've had the pleasure of partying with. It was 2007 and was one of the most glorious summers I spent in the Outer Banks. The music choice for the video...ehh...a little questionable. But, I guess legit to have. If you haven't gone, give it a go. Hell ask me to go with you, at least you know I'll document everything. 

I always thought the pull back of the parachute would bother me - definitely unlike anything you're expecting. Your feet just swing underneath you. It's amazingly gentle. The flight up was the "worst" part, if there was one. Just when I thought I was at the top and ready to jump, the guy literally was just opening the door to get some "fresh air". I had another 7,000 feet to climb. It was a really hot day, but we were told the air up there would be freezing. It was. Signing a death waiver was also interesting. My mother literally made the 4 of us kids take a group picture before I left. If she really thought I wasn't coming back, is that all she really needed - one last picture? Sounds familiar. I turn into her more everyday. I went, I came back alive, and ready to do it again. It's time. 

"We should go skydiving tomorrow"..."Ok sure lets go". It was that easy.

Bombs away....

Being in college + drinking beer everyday + eating junk all summer somewhat
explains this face.....throw rapid speeds and blasts of air to the face
and I'd say I've explained my looks here. Cool shot none the less.#TBT

Pull The Trigger

I have been wanting to go shoot guns for a while. Growing up, I had the privilege of being around a lot of farm land where my father would hunt ducks and geese. The Eastern Shore of Maryland didn't shy away from it's gun use, but for me it was always a shotgun. Hand guns were never in my realm. When I lived alone almost 2 years ago, I thought about getting my CWP and making a purchase, but had never used one. Even my experience with a shot gun is a distant memory. It seemed a little far fetched and I was clueless... after today, I see the light. After several months of trying to nail down a time to go, plus with the assistance of someone who actually knows what they're doing, I headed to the Palmetto State Armory. 

A little shy on the lane at first, I quickly warmed up and went for the double tap. I was told that I did very well for a first timer and that my accuracy was great enough to pass the test, should I choose to do that. My tiny little hands wrapped around a Glock 19, which apparently is thee gun for me. I got to hold something a little smaller (I think a Glock 27?), but was told the kickback may be a little too much. Maybe I'll try that next time. There will definitely be a next time.

#TriggerTuesday

#RoundsonRoundsonRounds

Bang Bang

"Bang Bang" - not a fan at first, but it's growing on me, and for some reason today I can't seem to get enough. #CrunkCardio is tonight, and I might just have to place a special request.

10 Years and 9 Hours

I used to drive back to Maryland all the time coming to and from Clemson. It has been several years since I've made the trek. This past weekend I had the opportunity again. Wonderful.

It was well worth the drive, however, I'm not jumping at the chance to get back in the car. It was my 10 year high school reunion, and guess who was in charge?! Me. As Senior Class President I guess you get stuck in that roll. With help from my past prom date, we pulled off a great night.....from what I can remember. Red Eye's Dock Bar is notorious for a good time, cheap drinks, and a heavy pour. Well, that, and their bikini contests. Gosh, what a shame we missed out on that one.

With 9 hours ahead of me and a lack of activity on the blog over the past few month, me and my non-makeup, hungover self decided to try a video message...vlogging if you will.

perhaps the next video (will there be a next?) will have better preparation.... my homies:

Groundhog Day

Have you ever felt like your life was similar to the movie Groundhog Day? Maybe not as a whole, but at least a part? Recently I made that connection and came to the realization that a huge part of my life was on repeat. The '93 classic stars Bill Murray - or rather a character named Phil. He would go through the same thing again, and again, but each time tried to play his situation out differently. Their would be small differences to his repeating day, however, the same end result would occur. Phil finally realized that instead of going through the motions, he would take it with stride and improve upon himself and those around him. The changes were so positive that eventually, Phil broke the loop and moved on to the following day - never reliving the same Groundhog Day again.

I have found myself on repeat in multiple areas of my life. Sure we get up everyday, go to work, eat lunch, come home, have a routine, go to bed, and do it all over again, but that's not always what we need to change. Recently, my Groundhog Day was altered. The loop...broken. Just like the movie, Phil kissed Rita and everybody moved on. Though this time, I wasn't Rita. I was removed from the loop. Finding change difficult at first, I thought about it and well, maybe just like the movie, I'd take each day and try to fix something. I'd try to change it up for a different outcome. I'd get back in the swing of things. Literally. 

Always a hobby, just in the background, I've come back to golf, tennis, and found a new love like for running. I've been stuck going through the motions. I had a routine and I liked it. Though you can't figure out if there is a better way, or better plan, if you don't give up the old and go for the new. Phil broke the loop and what you are only led to believe at the end of the movie is that he goes back to visit that little town in Pennsylvania every year. If my memory serves me correctly, Phil ends up suggesting he will move there one day, but of course starting simply with a rental. We'll never know his choice, but there's a big difference between life's rentals and the ones you settle down in.

I've never been one for change. I get attached too easily and have a memory for everything. It actually blows my mind to think about the places I have lived and the friends I have made, because change is all over the place when I look at the big picture. I can remember, however, hating each transition, but moving on once the loop was broken. Never by me, sometimes simply by time, but always with a push. I've been thankful for each time (looking back of course) and from that, try to find the best in every situation. Even since February 2nd, I've reconnected with old friends and relationships, and have been reminded of the person I always try to be. 

Just remember tomorrow can be February 3rd, a new day. Get rid of something that's not at 100%, even if it hurts. Or try to be thankful it got rid of you. If you miss it, you can try to find it again. If you don't, you'll have your Rita... a new beginning and a new routine. And if nothing else, it's nice to know it's not 1993. There is Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Snapchat, the Cloud, etc. etc.... nothing really dies, it just stays behind.

Ready, Set, Wet

I really thought I was going to end up sitting this one out, but today my dear friend Kristen asked me to partake in the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge. Never one to turn down a dare, a request, or a friend, I obliged. Once dressed in red, white, and blue, Kristen and I were the USA champs of beer Olympics held in the Outer Bank of NC. I thought it was only fitting to spread my American cheer yet again. I'm sure by now you've been "tagged" so to speak. And if not, when you do, have fun with it. Fun can be contagious, and I'd choose a good laugh over being "too cool" any day. Give back, donate, and support a good cause.

Ridiculous...but medal worthy. 

#ICEBUCKETCHALLENGE

Wrecking Ball

I came in like a wrecking ball - and I wasn't naked and swinging like Miley Cyrus, instead I was leaning down to pick up a garage door opener (that I never use) that slid off of my center console. Down into my pedals it went, where I knew it may cause an accident, while accelerating from a stop light. All part of the irony of slamming into the Subaru, who was stopping at the next stop light. The thought process of picking up the garage opener was to prevent an accident, when in fact I caused one. Luckily no one was hurt, except for my Jeep that is still yet to be named, and the rear of one navy Subaru. 

The folks I hit were extremely nice and caring - and I know it was genuine - but you may have to be when the girl who just hit you is having a panic attack grabbing her chest, knees, and neck, simultaneously and in hysterics. I probably looked like I was swatting a swarm of bees, because I didn't know what hurt more or what really happened. I leaned down, for what I thought was a brief second, then shot forward in my seat on impact. Literally, the seat shot forward as if I was trying to move it with the adjustment bar and the center console (or burger tray as it has been referred), slid completely off and flew into my CD player. 30 seconds later I calmed down and walked off the knee issue. Thank God my air bag didn't deploy, because it would have smacked me in the face/side of my neck and who knows what would have happened. What looks like a fender bender has turned into my vehicle being determined 50% totaled and needing 3 weeks of replacements and repairs. 

Besides the minor soreness, State Farm has made this process relatively painless. And talk about a small world. When I took my car to 1 of the 19 preferred collision repair centers, I met a gentleman who would oversee my service. He then said, "My estimator will be out in a moment". He walks out, sticks out his hand and introduces himself. At the same time we both say, "I know you, Pat!". It was a friend-of-a-friend who happened to stay at my apartment one weekend back in college during a Clemson home game. We quickly caught up and had some laughs. Then, to make the world even smaller, I ran into the guy (don't worry not literally) that I hit at lunch the next day. Greenville can seem so small. He was still one of the nicest people I have ever met. 

My car and I were reunited after 3+ weeks and it truly felt so good. That was a Tuesday. This past Sunday as I'm laying in bed, hungover from an exciting night at the local dueling piano bar, some friends came in to say goodbye as they were about to make their journey back to Charleston. We hug, tell each other how much fun we had, etc, when 5 minutes later they walk back in. We live on a hill and their car, with the removal of the emergency parking break and some slight confusion, rolled right back into my freshly rewired, revamped and repaired vehicle. I literally thought they were kidding, but with every "I'm so sorry", I rolled further out of bed to survey the damage. Again, it didn't look "too bad", but one visit to my friend Pat back at Image Collision Repair and numbers started to climb. With the hit, the entire inside made a shift to the right, cracking a few of my "important areas", as he dumbed it down for me. With a good sense of humor and nice friends all around, a stinky situation will soon be fixed in no time, but man, what a few weeks its been. I think I might start wearing a helmet. What do you think?

Round 2 Photos:

Apparently this bar is supposed to be a perfect "L" shape to my car. They had just painted it, so the black area shouldn't be showing. The crack on the right hand side is like that in a few spots - thank goodness for a guys, I would have had no idea what I was looking at. And overall aesthetically everything came out a "little tight" one side. Hopefully she'll be fixed in no time. Until then....stand clear.

Cash Only

Will and I took a trip down to Atlanta over Memorial Day weekend. The main reason for the trip was to see Dave Matthews Band on Saturday night, but we managed to hit up a few other spots during our brief stay. We drove down Saturday morning and grabbed lunch at Henri's {So we are clear, it is not "Henry's", as I made the mistake several times, it is pronounced "ahn-hrees"}. Located in Buckhead, Henri's turns out delicious sandwiches and has a bakery that will make you want to come back for seconds. The almond macaroon I ate was like a piece of angel food-cake with every bite. I followed that with a peanut butter chocolate chip cookie....and another few bites of an oatmeal cookie, then off to the mall we went. A pair of shoes for me and a shirt for him later, we headed to the hotel. In true Buckhead fashion, we passed several Rolls-Royce, a Lamborghini, and few other "rides" parked out front possibly for show. Our stay was very nice. With the amphitheater being a drive away, in a "bad part of town", and Will owning a brand new car, we decided to take a cab. Drinking a few tallboys at the concert wasn't going to help the equation either. The gentleman at valet whistled for a cab and in came Tony. A delightful, opinionated, southern man, set in his ways and very verbose about the way of the cab world and the streets of Atlanta. "Cash only", he would say. After brief discussion we put our faith in Tony that he was going to drive us to the concert (DMB was amazing BTW), we'd pay him up front for our return, and then hope he actually showed up to get us. And he did. Will and Tony quickly became BFF's. We were in good hands. I wouldn't repeat half the conversations we had with him - like I said, very set in his ways and passionate about his community - but here's a little taste:

The next morning we got up and went to the World of Coke. We saw a 4-D show (Disney you're calling my name, I can hear you), sat on the original American Idol couch, tried the taste of products from around the world (Taiwan Sprite being my leading favorite), and saw some pretty neat stuff. I had never been to the Olympic Park before either, so being so close, we walked over to that, too. Will's family has bricks with their names on them located in the park purchased during the ATL Olympics in 96', so went to find those. Pretty cool, and located just feet away from one of the statues where you can still see a nail mark from the bombing. Crazy stuff. I still will never get over the Olympics being so close and never going. Had I been a smarter middle schooler to realize the distance between Atlanta and my hometown of Centreville, MD, I assure  you I would have been there. Looking back at how "American" and obsessed with the flag her kids are, I am sure my mother wishes we went. I am determined to make it to one set of games.

Hungry, per usual for me, we went to The Varsity. I had passed it a million times going to see my sister, but never stopped in to hear "What'll ya have!?". So. Freakin. Good. A competitive rival to my favorites, Cheeseburger House (located in Greenville) and the always there-for-you Fuddruckers.  With full belly's and a great weekend behind us we headed North back to Greenville.

Happy Mother's Day

Happy Mother's Day to one hott Mother, and Grandmother! Here is to the woman who will drive 10 hours to see her children, simply because she wants to... To the lady who has 3 girls that continuously call and feel the need to update her on every detail from their day... To the Grandmother who is also known as a baby whisperer... To the friend who goes out of her way to use her sewing, painting, and crafting gifts to provide a favor (or two)... To the sister who welcomes in new additional members to the family... To the Aunt who makes you laugh with her special dance moves... To the neighbor who was always first to volunteer for lead carpool driver... To the photographer who taught her daughters to document everything... To the landlord who has given so many a place to stay... To the ex-wife that remains a friend... Here is to the mother of Whitney, Lindsay, Lacey, and Billy. I raise my glass to you and thank my lucky stars each and everyday I was blessed with a mother and friend like you. Thank you for always listening, never judging, and continuously supporting my decisions. I love you, Mom.

As a special treat to my mother - below is a reading of the posting I created for her 60th birthday back in September. She says I tend to mumble and occasionally talk too fast, so I tried my best to read slow and clearly. She also has many of my commercials and show segments saved to her computer from my radio days, so what's one more? Like I said, we document everything. 



More on my mom:

http://hennesseyhits.blogspot.com/2013/09/60-is-new-27.html

http://hennesseyhits.blogspot.com/2013/03/the-apple-doesnt-fall-far.html

Hooky Humpday

I remember the days of middle school asking, no - begging, my father to allow me to "play hooky" from school for the upcoming day. Rarely succeeding, but remembering oh so well that feeling when he said "fine". I had that feeling again this week when I asked my career parent - my manager - if I could take the day due to some heavy overtime I had put in recently. It was kind of her idea anyway so it was a non-issue, but when I got the "yes" you can probably imagine my excitement knowing I'd sleep in with no alarm. 

That day was today. I woke up at 9am. Lets talk about #postgradproblems, shall we. It's so sad to me that I was ecstatic to see that I slept until 9am. I got up to use the bathroom, climbed back into bed, because surely I could use more sleep, and then thought, "No, you have so much to do". I was so excited to be off that I almost didn't want to waste it....sleeping? I had off and needed off because I had life to take care of. I assured myself I'd fit in a nap somewhere later in the day. There were more important things on the list first....and some not so important things. It depends on how you prioritize. We may differ in opinion. My first stop:

 A Perfect 10. Call ahead for Julia.  You won't be disappointed ladies - 3 coats. Every time. Same for pedi's. When I called in from bed to see if Julia was working there was some confusion in dialog (as you can imagine). I mentioned I was in no rush, which apparently was taken as a huge rush. My 9:30 phone call soon became a 10am appointment. Regardless a nice set of hands was a great start to my day. I also got a nice laugh out of being told I had "tiny nail like Lauren" (my roommate and advocate of Julia's) and then she later confirmed what I have been told by so many friends -  "Lacey you have small hand". A common observation and 100% accurate statement. 

After I got my nails done, I met Johnny - a sweet gentleman and kind soul at O'Reilly's Auto Parts willing to help out a helpless, young girl who curled her hair and "dressed the part" of someone clearly clueless about cars. Did you know that only one light bulb controls both the brake light and blinker on a Jeep? Now you do. Mine was fried. Literally. The light bulb was black. I had a nice little laugh when Johnny took it out of the socket. That sweet man gave me an extra bulb just in case the left one goes out. Let's be honest. If you know my experience with Dora, or any of my past Volvo's, we see this one coming. Somebody knock-on-wood for me.

Naming rights are still out on the Patriot. Suggestions are welcomed. You should really see him/her shine. I'll tell you what, those folks at Greenville Car Wash know what they're doing. However, I looked Giarmo right in the eyes when I pulled up and said, "Give me the best you got". He looked back at me and said with his fancy accent, "Pina Colada?". I died a little inside. Hell no, I don't want my car to smell like Pina Colada, or Mint, or God help me New Car, because the last time I got New Car scent I received a whole lot of smelly comments from the peanut gallery who rode in my vehicle. I went with, "Actually let's go with no scent, Giarmo". 

On to the next task. Paying more dreaded medical bills. Don't worry I'm not dying, but it's last year all over again. I honestly don't understand the point of a deductible. I always try to remain calm with customer service staff on phone calls because I think they have the worst job. Think about it. In any industry, specifically cable companies, they only speak with people that, from the moment they answer the phone, hate them. So I try to be nice and understand that it's the company and their policies that I hate, not the person on the other line. If nothing else, try and take that away from this message today. I promise you there is no other lesson, anyway. 

I decided if I was giving out money today, I might as well give some to everyone. I had one gift card still burning a hole in my wallet from Christmas and a few Angel Rewards cards to my personal danger zone - so off to the mall I went. Yes, I went to the food court. 2 times in 2 weeks. That has to be some time of redneck record.  But I'm talking about my other danger zone, Victoria's Secret.

I went in with my purpose and the damage was done. Vickie. You win again. You send me $10 off this, Free pantie that, and yet I leave with a bag that could house a large cat.

And Forever 21, you are a 27,000 square foot store, yet you only let me take 6 items at a time into the dressing room? In what world does that make any sense? Especially in a store where I could be a small, medium, or a large, because your clothes are so inconsistent. That means I have to take in 2 of everything. I'm not mad because I'll never pay more than $22.50 for anything you sell, but it's a lot of back and forth. Touché. You got me. 13 items in. 4 items out. I get it now, it's a numbers game.

There's been some conversation among some groups that I may be moving. I can neither confirm nor deny these allegations. I will comment, however, that I went to check out a beautiful bedroom suite today, thanks to Fickle Greenville, and have decided to make the purchase. Now I'm just in the market for a strapping young lad to help me pick it up and place it in storage until it is ready to find its final home.

Last on the docket was Bowling League. I've suffered a slight injury which hurt our game. I'm not gonna say I ruined the night for us, because I most definitely was not the only one bringing us down, but tonight was not my night to say the least. The good thing is Team "I Can't Believe It's Not Gutter" is great at losing, so it really has become natural to us. Much like the modern day tee-ball team, we all get a turn, we're all out there for fun, and you get a high five from your teammates even if you suck. The added bonus in this case - buckets/pitchers of beer. 

I've been saying for a while now that I've wanted to play hooky and go to Carowinds, and I still really want to do that, but with placing "fun" aside, today was one of the most productive and efficient days. Much needed. The only thing missing was a few swings of the golf club and a few rubs of the shoulders. If only there were more hours in the day. #postgradproblems

"He hit her with that Emoji"

Every good wine night or "deets sesh" with friends results in great stories. A recent tale about a gentleman on the prowl resulted in a "Daaamn, he hit her with that emojiiiiii??", followed with boisterous laughter from the surrounding group. His choice of digital emotion may have been a little premature, but none the less he got the point across. After all text messages can be taken so many ways. 

I've gotten my share of emoji's and I've certainly sent several, so after the conversation this group had I was curious as to my "favorites". At that moment the Recently Used seen above seemed to be my top choices. Nothing too strange. I mean who doesn't like to send their friends a nice pile of poop every now and again...? These feelings can be used in so many ways. Allow me to break my meaning down to you. 

As I've expressed before, I love a good Snapchat. Many a day I would send my very own musical treats through brief video clips to close friends. My ultimate favorite - singing "I'm the Man" by Aloe Blacc (as if I were a baller). If not that, you could definitely catch a rendition of  "Love on Top" by Beyonce. Perhaps this is the reason that Greenville has decided to shut down any use of phones (aka hand-held devices) while driving a vehicle. I must admit, I have since broken the law. What my people want, my people get. 

Why use words when you can offer a silent round of applause. Yes, I do want to go there. Friend, you make me so proud. Love, I couldn't agree more. That was so embarrassing, job well done. I like it. I love. I want some more of it.

When I'm not bringing my two carni sized hands together, I'm throwing you up one unusually small thumb. This is my basic 'Yes'. My 'I'm good', if you will. Frequently used and probably abused.

As a roaring twenty something, I frequent the watering holes of Downtown Greenville. Whether its a half priced bottled happy hour or a weekend night on the town, creating plans tends to involve one of the 2. If not before, the morning after text sessions discussing the previous nights shambles sometimes leads to a pictorial conversation. 

Pretty sure all of the above gems have been added onto the end of Snap every-now and again. I definitely wouldn't bet against it. 

This one has been on my favorites list for a while. What can I say - I love a good cookie, and I guess I'm also not afraid to share my poor dieting choices with the world. If you can't indulge every once in a while, you are holding yourself to a ridiculous standard. Eat cookies. 

This one treads a fine line. Dependent on the conversation if I throw you that heart-wink-smooch, I may be throwing you some sugar. Maybe discussion for another time, but it's funny how we use hearts these days - we can heart something or someone, but watch out, don't love it. Hearts are the "xo-xo" of emojis. I heart that, but I may not L that. I see what we're all doing, thus I conclude with this....

....enter comedic relief stage right. There is nothing like a little humor to add to every conversation. He (obviously a male icon because let's be honest, girls don't poop), seems to be so cheerful yet can inform any contact in your phone that you are not happy with the situation. It's my 'No Dice', my 'Eww', my fake 'I hate you', or maybe just the first thing I send you in the morning to put a big, fat smile on your face. 

I love a good emoji. Hit me with your best.