Thanks to Sara for designing this beautiful announcement!

We are so thankful we can share this sweet blessing and gift from our Heavenly Father with y'all today. It's been very hard to keep it a secret for the past two months, but after our Dr gave us the news that we are now on her "low risk list" last week, she told us we could "shout it from the rooftops." I promise to have more details for y'all soon, but if you would keep me and the baby in your prayers, and the Mr too because he's having to put up with my roller coaster of emotions right now — we would greatly appreciate it!

We can't wait to share this journey with you.

Friday Five — link up #35

To tell you how excited I am for college football to finally be here... well, I can't describe it without squealing! #hailstate

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the Sowell life's Friday five... Football Edition — what I love about my team!

1) {Our Spirit} When you walk on the campus of Mississippi State in Starkville, your heart starts to race a little. It's the energy of all the fans walking through the tailgates, the chants from all the fans to the opposing team and the smiles knowing you're at your favorite place on earth. And seeing your favorite MSU fans and catching up every season makes it even better!

2) {Our Cheers and Chants} You'll hear us screaming MAROOOOOON — WHIIIIIIIIIIITE, GO DAWGS, singing Hail Dear Ole State, and of course, Who Let the Dawgs Out. And who doesn't love to hear a COWBELL ringing!!!!!

3) {Our Coach} We love our coach. His faith in our team makes us all believe. And he truly does care about his team, his school and his fans. We're so proud to have him!

4) {The Rivalry} While I love being in the SEC and always want the SEC to dominate, there is also that rivalry of our teams to the north and east of us. Those games probably mean more to us that any other game, and no matter the outcome we're still proud of the effort of our boys. 

5) {True Fans} I've always been a MSU fan. Always will be, too. And we've seen some good seasons, and some really bad ones. But we love our team no matter what! Our fans are fans for life, win or lose we always support our team.

#hailstate

Now, who's ready to link up?!! Thanks for stopping by, linking up, sharing the link up on your blog and on twitter! I appreciate y'all spreading the word more than you'll ever know!! Enjoy your weekend, y'all! 

I'm also linking up with Beth today for Football Friday! 

Why wish for Friday everyday...

My blog friend Lauren issued a challenge yesterday about doing a blog post about why Monday — Thursday can be just as good as Friday. And, why we shouldn't beg and wish for Friday, everyday.

So today, I'm taking that challenge. #weekdayawareness

Even though I'm not working, I can still be heard saying "when's the weekend gonna be here?" or "is Friday here yet?" But I think one of the main reasons for my wishful thinking is so I will have more time with my husband. He works hard for us, which usually means longer hours during the week than his 7-4 week day job. And anytime I have with him makes me very happy. I miss him during the day while he's gone. And I love our time together.

But there is also much to love about the week being at home.

Laundry — it's so nice to have time during the week to do the laundry. Nothing makes the weekend more draining than piles of dirty laundry. I try to make sure all of our laundry is done before Friday so we can enjoy doing other things during the weekend.

Food Prep — While I haven't been doing much cooking in the kitchen, when I get the urge — I can have dinner waiting for the Mr when he walks through the door. And if I don't have all the ingredients I need to make dinner, it's pretty easy to run to the store and there is usually no lines. #score

Shopping — I'm not a shopper of really anything, but groceries. And having the week to plan a day to run to the grocery store while isn't during the weekend makes me smile.

Cleaning — there is always something to clean. Even though I hate cleaning, it helps to have time during the week so you don't waste your time cleaning during the weekend.


So stop thinking of the weekend like this...

What is it about Monday — Thursday that makes you thankful it's not Friday?

Ten on Tuesday

Since I have some randomness to share this Tuesday, I thought I would link up with Alyssa today.


1 — Knowing that these are in the house makes it almost official that it's Fall.

2 — Since our weather has been up and down with the temps, it's doing a number on my sinuses. Can we just have weather in the 60s all day and the 50s at night year round? I think this would save my sinuses, and make me happier. Of course, I already know this will never happen. But, a girl can have wishful thinking, right?

3 — I've never done a photo-a-day challenge on instagram, but the Alabama Women Bloggers will begin their first ever challenge in September, and I'm thinking about doing it.

4 — Big Brother... I know I talk about it a lot, but I've recently started watching After Dark, and let's just say that I'm so ready for Amanda to go home. I'm tired of her voice, and watching her tactics on the show. She's ruling the house, and she's got to go. Anyone else agree?

5 — FOOTBALL season is here. As you all know we are big MSU fans and we can't wait to cheer on our dawgs Saturday. We're hoping we can make it back to Starkville for at least one game this season since we didn't get a chance to go last year. And if you follow me on twitter, you'll be seeing a lot of #hailstate action going on!

6 — The Mr ran in CVS yesterday to pick up a few things after work and he came home with Reese's Peanut Butter Cups. Mind reader? Maybe... but it definitely made both of us smile while we enjoying eat a few.

7 — After watching the VMA's last Sunday... I've been on a JT kick, and had to go back and watch one of my favorite SNL musical acts. In March he guest hosted and performed Suit & Tie and Mirrors... if you haven't seen it — go watch it!

8 — Watching the Foot Network — some of these shows have some of the craziest challenges. Have you seen Sweet Genius? It's definitely an interesting show with all the weird ingredients he throws at them to incorporate in their dishes.

9 — I'm not much on leftovers, but there are a few things I will reheat and eat again: grilled chicken on salads, potato soup and beef stew. Seriously, I'm not a leftovers kinda girl.

10 — We've got a holiday weekend among us, and we have an idea of what we want to get accomplished. Seeing that we have three days... maybe one of those days we will actually use it as a work day in the house and get some things organized. What are your plans this holiday weekend?

My thoughts on the VMA's...

Even if you didn't watch the VMA's last night on MTV... you've certainly heard about some of what went on through social media today. I will admit that we did watch it last night. And I can say that some of the things I witnessed last night made my jaw drop. Should I have been shocked? Maybe not, but some of it was hard not to be.

The opener... Lady Gaga. I'll admit that I love her new song, however I knew to expect something dramatic with her choice of wardrobe. All in all, I enjoyed her show — even though her sea shell outfit at the end I could have gone without seeing.

photo from here

The Miley Cyrus freak show was just that... a freak show. From the outfit to the mouth expressions, and the provocative dancing — what was she thinking. I understand she doesn't want to be known as "Hannah Montana" anymore, but she's making herself look ridiculous and I feel it's not good for her new game plan.

photo from here

JT — the highlight of the show for me. I love all of his music, and would love it if they came out with a hits album for him. I'd purchase it in a heartbeat. He could have been the entire show and I would have loved every minute of it. And, who didn't love seeing NSYNC back together — even if it was for a few seconds.

photo from here

Bruno Mars is one that I'd love to see in concert. I enjoy all of his music, and I love his little energetic self. I enjoyed hearing his new song, but I really love Treasure!

photo from here

Katy Perry ended the night right with her new song Roar. And she's another singer that I enjoy her music. I can't wait to see what all new music she has on her new album.

photo from here

Did you watch the VMA's last night? What did you think about the show last night? Who was your favorite performer?

Friday Five — link up #34

I think it's best to describe this post as the last weekend without college football for the year! #hailstate

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the Sowell life's Friday five...

1) {HEAT WAVE} Yeah, it's been a little warm outside the past few days, but I'm pretty sure it's been hotter in our house over the past day and a half. Wednesday night, I woke up sweating and I woke up the Mr, and he said you're always complaining about it being hot. So he got up to see what the thermostat was on... it was set to 71, but it was 75 degrees. Yep... our air conditioner was not working! Thankfully, our air was fixed this morning and it's beginning to cool off. This would be why this post is late today... you know when you're too hot, yep, you just don't feel like doing anything. And that includes blogging my friends!

2) {MB's back} Our girl came back to visit us this week, and she's been enjoying lots of belly rubs and car rides around town. Of course, she is like me — she didn't like the heat wave in our house. Poor thing was hot and miserable, too.

3) {Happy Birthday Mom} Wednesday was my mom's birthday. We celebrated with salads from O'Charleys to make up for the delicious ice cream cake from DQ for dessert. And if you haven't enjoying a little slice of that heaven... do so immediately!

4) {Candy Corn} The first official bag of candy corn was purchased and is in our home. I've yet to have any, but the Mr has already opened the bag. This marks the unofficial start of Fall for us. 

5) {New treats} Mom and I went to Sams to get some things for the house, and we came across these. Decided to give them a try, and well, we're hooked. They are delicious, and do not have to be kept in the fridge.

Now, who's ready to link up?!! Thanks for stopping by, linking up, sharing the link up on your blog and on twitter! I appreciate y'all spreading the word more than you'll ever know!! Enjoy your weekend, y'all! 

Wordless Wednesday

A little Monday humor...

This might be the funniest thing I have ever seen... and the best part is I picture this girl making this video for a vlog. The Mr and I watched it twice and laughed because we know someone who did this.

Your welcome for the laugh!

Ponderings and weekend recap

Have you ever been thinking about something and wonder if anyone else thinks the same way you do? Well, here are some of the things I ponder, and yes, I do realize that all of these are very random.

Mayonnaise — what brand do you use? We use Blue Plate (cause that's what I grew up watching mom buy). But did you change once you moved out and got a place of your own?

Towels — I wish I had a video of this, but the way I was taught to fold towels is not the way my husband folds them. He has converted me to his way, and the way he pairs his socks. We now fold them in half long ways... I was taught to fold them in half the other way. Does that even make sense?

Lawn Services — have you seen all the unique names these companies have come up with. I mean, how many different ways can you use the word "green" in a title. Green Envy, Mighty Green Lawn Care, Green Care, Green Turf — the list could go on and on. My question is... what would you name your lawn service if you had one?


Our weekend was pretty laid back. The weather made relaxing our top priority.

Friday night's dinner was a little random. I watched Food Network cupcake wars and their inspiration was school lunch items... one look at those tater tots had me wanting them asap. Of course we already had chicken out to make fried chicken. We had a combination of food that I've never served before — fried chicken and tater tots on the fancy dixie paper plates!

Saturday the Mr had to meet a client so I hung out with a blanket in my pjs and watched more Food Network. Thankfully none of the items cooked on the show made an impact on my stomach. Once he got home after lunch, we took to our desired areas in the living room and napped and watched Extreme RVs. If you haven't seen these massive and exquisite "homes" they show on TV... well,  you're missing out. We ended the evening watching UFC fights.

Sunday was an interesting day that ended with us in bed by 7:15. I didn't feel good most of the day so the Mr took care of the laundry, and the cleaning. He's golden y'all... and I'm so thankful for him.


The sun is finally peeking through the clouds today, and I saw that our usual summer temps are coming back towards the end of the week. This isn't what I was hoping for — I was really hoping the cooler temps were here to stay. Oh well... maybe they will be back before we know it.

Friday Five — link up #33

Hellllllooo Friday. And welcome weekend!!

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the Sowell life's Friday five...

1) {The Weather} I know, I know — I've been talking a lot about the weather here lately, but seriously it's been so Fall(ish) outside and I'm loving it. This week's weather has been perfect, and if it's any indication of what's to come — bring. it. on.

2) {A Sweet Treat} The only thing that can make brownies any better than paired with ice cream is adding symphony bars to the pan. #heavenly

3) {Special Delivery} I've been enjoying these beautiful flowers from my sweet friend Darby. She knows how to brighten anyone's day. 

4) {My First Meatloaf} I haven't had meatloaf since I was a child living with my parents. Honestly, I've never been a huge fan of it. So the other night we were talking about what we were going to make with the hamburger meat I had pulled out. The Mr said I should make meatloaf. Well, thankfully Stephanie had a recipe that was easy and that he said sounded good so I made it. He said it had a great flavor and enjoyed it. (two helpings) He said he knew I wasn't going to like when he took a bite. Not because it didn't taste great, but because I'm not a fan of certain textures. I agreed that it was full of flavor, but that one bite did it for me because of the way it felt in my mouth. (Go ahead and shake your head... that's just me.)

5) {Duck Dynasty} Did y'all see the season premier this week? LOVED it. I don't think we have never missed an episode, and hope to always keep it that way. The show is full of happiness, funnies, God's love and family togetherness. And you have to admit — Si just might be everyone's favorite!

Now, who's ready to link up?!! Thanks for stopping by, linking up, sharing the link up on your blog and on twitter! I appreciate y'all spreading the word more than you'll ever know!! Enjoy your weekend, y'all! 

Negative Comments

Being a blogger, you tend to put yourself out there letting your opinions known. We know not everyone shares the same opinions we might have, but most of us are fortunate to not experience the negativity that other bloggers sometimes get. That's not to say that we don't have the occasional negative comment, but most of us are blessed with sweet commenters.

Now that I'm back on Facebook, I'll see videos that have been posted by friends or pages that I've liked. One most recently that I watched (and loved) was that of sweet little Ella singing to Elvis. Good Morning America reposted it yesterday on Facebook, and I saw first hand how awful some people can be with their comments. This little girl has done nothing to any of these people, and the harsh comments about her "so called singing" just broke my heart. How could you not love this...

Then earlier this morning, a UPS cargo plan crashed just before reaching the Birmingham Airport. Please keep in mind that this is close to the area we live in. Unfortunately, both the pilot and co-poliot lost their lives in this accident. And while my thoughts have been around the families of these victims and the emergency responders who are working the scene, I've read so many disturbing comments on twitter and Facebook... "hope my package wasn't on the plane" — really? That's your biggest concern? And already placing the blame on the airport tower, etc. There have been no reports of what actually happened, and there probably won't be for quite a while. Why point fingers at others before any evidence has been shared?

I'm just not sure why people have to have these negative comments. Even if you are thinking it, should you post it? I mean you are consciously typing it out, and then have to hit enter for it to post.

I'll be honest, I think a lot of it is for attention. And I truly feel that some of these negative commenters have nothing better to do all day, and just look for ways they can leave their mark with negativity.  

I've been having to bite my tongue, or actually hold my fingers back from typing a comment right back to them. I'm not going to bring myself down to their level. The only thing we can do is pray for them to have a change of heart. And hopefully they will remember that it's not always about them.

How do you handle negative comments on your blog, twitter or Facebook?

Hi, I'm Joy and I...

... don't like mayo.

... am scared of heights.

... started getting gray hair at the young age of 16.

... still think thank you notes are important to send.

... am terrified of snakes.

... hate cleaning toilets.

... love a good rainy afternoon combined with a nap.

... love Thanksgiving.
 
... could probably eat a thin crust pepperoni pizza by myself.

... would rather have a planner to write in than use my calendar on my iPhone.

... sleep with two pillows.

... am a Candy Crush Saga fan.

... have never been to the circus.

... am not a shopper. Unless you take me to Sephora, Ulta or we go purse shopping.

... am a reality tv junkie.

... dislike rush hour traffic.

... think drama is for the birds, unless I'm watching it on tv.

... have an obsession with photography — especially instagram.

... like even numbers.

... just counted to see if I have an even number on this list.

Dinner at Plain Chicken's...

This weekend brought a special treat — we had the privilege to eat at Plain Chicken's house. But, there was nothing plain about Stephanie's cooking, especially the chicken!

She had my kinda menu prepared for us — but don't worry, I plan to share all the delicious recipes with y'all so you can make them for your family this week.

For appetizers, she made her famous Cream Cheese Sausage Balls. Let's just say I ate my fair share of these babies. They were absolutely DE-LICIOUS! If you've ever had your hands on sausage balls, you'll probably remember them being a little dry when you eat them. Not these... I'm talking juicy, and flavorful. We will be making these here at the Sowell house really soon!

The main course was cooking while we talked and caught up with the latest gossip. And with every passing minute, my stomach started growling more and more. The guys were outside tending to the grill while I sat and watched Stephanie work her magic in the kitchen.

We had grilled chicken smothered in bacon and cheese. But the marinade she used was divine. The chicken was cooked perfectly, and the taste — well, it left your mouth watering for another bite. I'm sorry I can't share the recipe with you just yet, but we were her guinea pigs for this recipe. And since it was such a hit, you'll be seeing it on her blog in a few weeks. Trust me, you will not want to miss it!

One of the sides were her amazing Crack Potatoes. I've had this recipe pinned on Pinterest for quite a while but had yet to make them. We LOVED them. And, she sent the leftovers home with us... so we had them as a meal in itself on Sunday. I'll definitely be adding this recipe to our side dishes.

Homemade Rolls — need I say more? I'm a bread fanatic, but homemade bread and cornbread tie for #1 in my book. And she makes some pretty fantastic homemade bread. We may or may not have come home with a loaf, and we may or may not have already eaten half of it.

Of course she had dessert waiting on us after dinner. (Like we needed it or had any room for it after that amazing meal.) I'd heard about this Butterfinger Cake, and how moist and delicious it was, but I finally got to try it. The cake did not disappoint. It was perfect, and we all know how much I love Butterfingers!

If you read Stephanie's blog on Mondays, you'll probably already know what I'm about to say. We got to meet the famous Jack, Sherbert and Fluffy. Jack was so loving and the life of the party, Fluffy was a sleeper, and Sherbert — the curious little one came out to see who was invading their house. And they are just as cute in person as they are on her blog.

Thanks again Stephanie and Tadd for inviting us over to enjoy dinner with y'all. You know it's a great meal when you're still talking about it the next day.

Friday Five — link up #32

In the first few days of August, we've officially realized that the dog days of summer are here. What happened to our July weather? I don't like these hot days... bring on FALL!

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the Sowell life's Friday five...

1) {Finger and Toes ready for football} Y'all I finally found the perfect color to celebrate MSU football — Essie's Fishnet Stockings. I can't wait to paint them with my new nail polish for the first game!! #hailstate

2) {New Smell Goods} I found two new candles that I love at Target. They didn't really have any of their Fall candles out, but both of these just have a really clean and calming scent. One is in our living room (be amazing), and the other (ginger iced tea) in our bathroom. 

3) {Home Cooking} I've been pretty lazy when it comes to cooking, but this week I did make our favorite homemade lasagna, only I made half the size I normally make. It was soooo good. 

4) {Craving Fall Foods} I mentioned in yesterday's post that I'm ready for soups and stews this Fall. And after I started thinking about it, I decided that I wanted one of my favorite soups. So we enjoyed potato soup for dinner one night.

5) {Ulta is calling my name} I got my newest Ulta magazine in the mail this week and found quite a few things that I think I need, and want to try. Plus, I've got a coupon that I can use. #score I really want to try the Butter products and the new Bare Minerals concealer kit. Have y'all used any of these products... what do you think of them?

Now, who's ready to link up?!! Thanks for stopping by, linking up, sharing the link up on your blog and on twitter! I appreciate y'all spreading the word more than you'll ever know!! Enjoy your weekend, y'all!