Monday, Monday.... la la la la la la....

Monday I did something I've dreamed about every single day since I started Green Cycle Designs... I quit my day job. No, I didn't walk in and scream, "I won the lottery, I'm outta here!" I very calmly (with my heart beating out of my chest thinking I was having another awesome episode) did it. I did it.... I DID IT! I gave notice and as of February 1st I will officially be my own CEO, CFO, COO & most importantly... Artist & Mommy! Ask me what I do for a living, "I'm an artist!" Can you say lifelong dream being fulfilled?!

Although I've been dreaming about this for a very long time, I have 2 very special boys in my life that made it a reality. First of all being my husband for believing in me every step of the way. For the 6 years that GCD has been around he's been my "unpaid intern". That's a long time to not collect a paycheck :)  He helps me at every show, he shleps everything, packs the car, paints stems for me and he even secretly sometimes gets creative and we say that I made it... Shhhhh :) Thank you Andy, a million times over. I love you!

And secondly my Baby Max...  Yes, my son who all he can say is "Eggy", scream for fun and blow raspberries has 100% motivated me to do it.

You see when I first went back to work from my maternity leave I was a mess. Max had reflux for the first couple months and we were just getting into our routine and having fun and then BOOP! time to go back to reality. I realized in that first week that by the time I picked him up and got him home, I only had 2 hours a day with him. 2 hours a day, 5 days a week and that being if he didn't take a nap when we got home. Did I say I was a mess?

I would ask family and friends how they did it and was returned with "you make it work" or "it just kind of becomes your routine" and even some answers of "Ugh, aren't you excited to go back to work?" and I can remember thinking, "NO! This is not for me! This is not what I want for my life!"

So as the story goes I went to my parents one day to pick up Max, I don't know maybe a week or so into my return to work and had an absolute melt down. I needed to be with my baby... not want... NEED. It's crazy that this primal instinct comes over you when you become a mom... Like they aren't lying when they say you would literally jump in front of a train for them. After a long discussion and picking up all the pieces of my heart I decided what I had to do..... I needed to make it work.

I went home to Andy that day and had a long discussion. We agreed that since season was upon us (Christmas is just that for etsy sellers.... Christmas!) we would see how it goes and take it from there. This of course gave me permission to be an absolute crazy person and stay up until 1:00am and then get up with Max at 5:00am. I did this for oh maybe 2 months straight, became a zombie, didn't see any friends, folded paper anywhere I could, got a terrible flu.....but you know what.... I did it... I FUCKING DID IT! ahem... excuse my French, but I did it!

I remember reading a book a few years ago... I want to say it was the terrible follow-up to the book Eat Pray Love and in one part she goes off on a tangent about how much her mom sacrificed for her and how she had to put her own dreams and desires aside and leave them unfulfilled. I remember thinking at that time too... "No! It doesn't have to be that way if you don't want it to be!" The only obstacle in front of you is yourself and if you want something bad enough, you can do it! You may have to bust your ass and catch a wicked flu to get it, but you'll get it.

I feel like the before and after Tara... And so far I'm loving the after Tara. This is me... This is what I'm meant to do, be and feel. I've grown GCD so much over the past 6 years so much with working a steady 9:00-5:00, that I'm over the moon to see where I can take it when it's my full time job.

Thank you to all of my family and friends for being my endless support system. You come to shows, you buy and gift my wares, you help me fold, you lend me tables, you make silly pretzel banana caterpillars with me at shows... you're just the best group of people a girl could surround herself with and I'm endlessly grateful. I couldn't do it without you....

So on that note, I just want to say cheers to 2014! I hope it brings you everything you want and desire in life, it can if you want it to :)

XO,
T

Whoa... I'm Going to be a Mom Tomorrow!

July 11, 2013 is a day that I will remember for the rest of my life. It will be up there in that "happiest days of your life" category along with your wedding day and any other milestone days that may stand out in life. I'm going to be a mom tomorrow... It's a lot to take in, regardless of having the 9 months to prepare it's a huge moment.

I went to the OB yesterday (my due date) and this little boy in my belly has completely stalled out. What seemed like he was making crazy fast progress a month or a little more ago had me thinking he would be here early, he then decided to just hang out... and grow... and grow.. and grow... to oh about the 9 lbs they think he is now. My belly is measuring 42 weeks and I'm 40 weeks - I've removed the newborn clothes from my hospital bag.

So because of various things, mainly his size, how high up he is and the fact that my body is doing nothing to help him progress downward, my doctor and I determined my little boy will enter the world tomorrow at 2:30pm, 2 days late via c section.

Andy and I are extremely excited to meet him... And I'm extremely excited to sleep on my stomach again.

I just put the bottle of champagne from my baby shower in the fridge (Thanks Cari) and I'm trying to figure out where to have our final meal as a twosome tonight. Though I'm not exactly thrilled at the idea of the baby being pulled out of me, it's kinda cool that I can just go in and have my baby. Ask me about this again when I'm in recovery... :)

I was a little melancholy yesterday that I won't get to experience the thrill of my water breaking and the rush of running to the hospital to do the one thing my body was made to do... But I can sulk on this or I can get excited that I will be holding my son tomorrow... I choose the latter.

So think of us tomorrow at 2:30 when we welcome the newest Ackerman to the world... Love to you all!

It's been a while (again)...

I'm going to be 30 tomorrow...

I think birthdays always put me in a reflective state (as you can see last year here) and I've truly got a lot to be thankful for in this past year. I was warned that 30 was difficult for a lot of people, but so far it's only a number to me. I'm overall just grateful to be here.

Yesterday I had a health scare when I woke up in the middle of the night with my heart pounding out of my chest. It literally woke me up. This has happened to me before, but always in the middle of the day and I've been able to kinda calm it down and stop it within 5-10 minutes. This went on for 45 minutes. I ended up waking Andy up and we went to the Emergency Room where 6 people rushed in, put electrodes on me, put 2 IV's in my arm, and told me there's nothing they can do for me without harming my child. "We can electric shock you, but we have to sedate you and we're not sure if it will harm the baby" or "we can give you drugs that we're not sure will harm the baby" AWESOME!

Soooo I ended up extremely lucky because they tried some holistic things first like ice all over my face and an artery massage. Finally, they gave me a beta blocker in my IV and that did the trick. No electrocution of me or the baby necessary. We went to my OB and baby is doing fine but, also going to a cardiologist today to find out wtf is happening in there. The entire thing feels like a bad dream.....

In some ways, I'll always be a Fullone

Once again this has made me realize how extremely short and fragile life is. And how many blessings I have. Talk about a wake-up call before a monumental birthday.

So today, I'm counting some of the things I'm grateful for....

My mom had a horrific accident this year that she has fully recovered from (though she will sometimes talk about her scrambled eggs brain) :) It's more of a joke at this point. I appreciate her with all my heart and the love and friendship we have.

Isn't she cute?!

My amazing husband. It's so hard to believe that Andy and I have been together for 11 years (what?!) because the time just flies by. I have truly found the tweedle dee to my dum, my best friend and the love of my life. I'm so ready and excited to move onto the next stage of our lives together. I love you!

Oh just hanging out in London....

Getting pregnant, which while trying felt like it took forever to finally happen and was stressful, was rewarding and life lessons were definitely learned. Although you think you can control your body, sometimes you can't and it's totally out of your hands. There is a master plan for all of us though. I think the 6 months it took was actually not so bad (hindsight is always 20/20) and the timing for when our baby boy will come is impeccable.

The much requested bump picture, here ya go ladies! 22 weeks and counting!

My family and friends - I wouldn't trade 'em, any one of 'em for the world! They are my rock and constant. Although people come in and out of your life, my friends are lifers. I love all of you!

I love my family :)

Craziest Group of Kids Ever.. Love them all!

Our house - We've moved out of our terribly small condo and into an actual no sharing walls, yard bearing, 3 bedroom, more than 1 toilet (2.5 actually) amazing house. It even has a room that we're decorating for the baby... I'm in house love and I haven't felt that in a while.

This kitchen almost makes me want to learn how to cook, well maybe.

GCD - My company keeps growing by leaps and bounds. I'm amazed every day at the awesome feedback I get from it. I've been steadily growing my etsy shop and adding more and more shows each year. The ability to do this full time is definitely in the view... So excited!

Flowers, Flowers Everywhere!

I truly believe 2013 is the year for us and I'm excited for everything that it will bring.

Come on 30 - Bring it on!

Reason for scarcity....

I'm out living life and not blabbing about it!

Love you :)

Wednesday Obsessions... Or Free Netflix (Kind Of)!

In the summertime my movie watching and book reading goes on overdrive because of the extra free time on my hands. It's been this way since I was in high school. Call me a nerd, but I love being up to date on movies and have old classics under my belt...

OMG so many movies!!!

I bought a Netflix subscription back in 2005, but it kept getting more and more expensive and they would make you wait weeks, some times months for a new release. Andy finally convinced me to stop wasting $25 a month on the DVD's and Blurays that would just sit on our coffee table... sometimes for months...

I remember a few years ago when Shine a Light came out... I had that in my house for a record 3 months... 3 MONTHS!!! I never watched it... I recently did though and it was terrible (I'm just not a Stones freak I guess) but that made me think... I spent $75 for a movie to sit on my coffee table for 3 months! I could have purchased it 4 or 5 times over! I still have the streaming version of Netflix for my Appletv.  It's only $7.99 a month and for whatever reason I can't bring myself to cancel it.

It's been only over the past couple years that I've discovered a new **FREE** way to watch movies.....

Behold the Broward County Public Library System... Or as I like to call it FREE NETFLIX!!!

It's absolutely 100% the most amazing thing ever. Do you have a library card? Great! You're all set to get started! All you need to do is access the Broward County Library Catalog, search for your movie, place a hold and choose which branch to pick it up... Seriously, it's just that simple!!

The Broward County Library Search

The library staff will transfer, pick up and hold the movie for you. You'll get an email when it's ready and all you have to do is drive your pretty little self to the branch, go to the front desk and voila! It's yours for about a week! As a matter of fact 10 can be - 10 is the limit for checking out movies... Not too shabby!

My Holds... Don't Judge

Last year I remember watching What Dreams May Come and Chitty Chitty Bang Bang... Two movies I had wanted to see since I was little... Crazy right? Who goes through childhood without seeing  Chitty Chitty Bang Bang!?!

Of course this system works for any other thing that the library has to offer you too. Of course it could also cost you just a little cash money if you return the movie late. If you want it longer though, you can renew right from the website. When you're done with your item you can also drop it off at any Broward County library and they will return it to its originating branch. They basically do all the work for you!

Sooooo call me a nerd, but I love my free books and movies! Do you have any secrets like this to share? I'm all ears!

Key West Anticipation....

I just can't wait..... Just can't can't can't wait....

We're leaving for Key West on Friday morning! I haven't been down there since I was about 15 years old which is a CRIME being that we live only a few hours away!

We're going down to celebrate Keith's 40th Birthday and staying at Casa Marina. I've heard so many amazing things about the hotel, I can't wait to experience it in person. Also can't wait for the drive down - It's supposed to be an awe inspiring drive. When you're 15 you could care less about that...

Casa Marina - Amaze!

Moreover than anything else, I'm excited to go on vacation with some of my favorite people on Earth.... Shenanigans abound! Oh! Did I mention Lobster Fest is this weekend down there too? If I come back 20 pounds heavier you'll know why!

Have you been to Key West? Any favorite restaurants? Bars? Shops?

Happy Birthday Maria....

Today is the birthday of one of my closest friends and partners in crime, Mrs. Maria Gerecitano Geiser Tagliarino.... :)

LOL.... It doesn't fit love....

I just wanted to make a little post dedicated to her and all the fun we've had over our last 6 years of friendship. See there was a time back in 2006 when we were supposed to go out to dinner with Keith and Cari for my birthday and they brought along another couple... The rest is history. I love Maria from the bottom of my little heart.... I have to say it was hilarious going through old pics for this... There's def some oldies and goodies.

Happy Birthday Mrs. T...  Can't wait to celebrate and watch wieners chase yizards with you tonight!

Our first official pic together on that fateful night.... 2006

A Tatu night in 2008

My 25th Bday - 2008

Cari's Shower

Sunfest 2010

We heart nuts!

Another Maria's Bday dinner!

Seat, Peepee, Hotdog  Est. 2008

Cari's Bday - 2008

Cari's Bday 2008

Just another night at the Hard Rock - 2010?

Deering Seafood Fest - 2010

Cari's Bday 2010

And especially memories like this..... I can't wait for more! Love you Maria!

Halloween 2011

Obsessions Wednesday... The Wayfarer

I know I know, I'm waaaaaayyyyyy behind the boat on this one.

Last week during my amazing week off vacation I made a trip to Boca Town Center with Mrs. Doopiemoos for a little retail therapy. Within this retail therapy I had a little inkling of what I had set out to buy.

Behold the Wayfarer....

The originals 

The little black dress of the sunglass world, I had always admired them, those that wear them and the classic chic look that they bring, but had never realized the history behind them. I'm talking way deeper than just a little Risky Business.

They've been around since 1956 and have adorned the most classic of classic (and some maybe not so classic)...

Just a sampling of the appeal...

My beauties are the Wayfarer RB2140 which are the originals, taken from the original design.


Want more history on them? Wikipedia is more that happy to oblige!

Missed the boat or not, I'm in love! What are your fave pair of sunnies?

Indie Craft Bazaar: Summer of Love Preview!

If you're in the South Florida area, this weekend there is an art show on Saturday at Revolution Live that can't be missed (and I'm not just saying that because I'll be there with Green Cycle Designs too... wink wink)

Indie Craft Bazaar: Summer of Love!

                      

There will be over 60+ food and art vendors all with an indie flair. I can't say it enough how much I love buying something that is one of a kind made by an actual person sitting in front of you. It's awesome to know you're supporting local artists. Did I mention there will be live music by Emily Sheila and a vintage fashion show by Public Image Vintage? How cool is that?

I would like to give you a little preview with some of the vendors that I keep coming back to and think you'll love them too:

Doopiemoos - Shameless plug, it's my partner in crime Cari's company. She makes the most awesome accessories - you won't be able to have just one. She's also debuting some new pieces (necklaces, bracelets, etc.) that are to die for, you have to check them out!

Awesome new doopiemoos bracelets!

Grateful Threads - Leanna makes the most amazing upcycled and sustainable organic clothing. I live in my Prana pants and love my Beatles skirt. She's happy to help custom make something for you and has so many options and colors!

I love my Prana Pants!

Henna Eden - Have you seen the henna Mrs. Doopiemoos and I have been sporting lately? It's all the amazing work of Lori. I'm so excited to get a new piece. It's tattoos without the commitment and it smells delicious!

Bally Ding Revue & My Little Thrift Store - Traci and her husband Scott have the most amazing vintage pieces, jewelry and photographs. They are super friendly and happy to help you find you're next must have piece!

 Amazing finds from both of these awesome shops!

Melodic Muse - Be sure to stop by and say hi to Cheryl. She makes the most amazing original jewelry from guitar pics and other found pieces. Think of it as wearable art!

Enjoy Yourself Vintage - Christine has the most amazing vintage pieces at unbeatable prices. You're guaranteed to find a new amazing accent piece to bring home! Click the link to see more of the goods she's bringing to the show!

Just a sample of the items Christine is bringing!

Heartbeatz - Debbie makes the cutest accessories from classic fabrics. She also makes baked goods! All delicious - you can't help yourself, but sample all the flavors. Be sure to click over to her etsy page too to see the handmade creations she's bringing!

Debbie's delish cupcakes we had at the last ICB - yum!

And last, but not least - Green Cycle Designs (me, Tara): I'll have lots of new flowers and pieces for your decorating pleasure!

I have to mention as well that Amanda and Chris that run the event are super nice. You will probably see them at the door or walking around. Feel free to ask anyone questions, it's a giant love fest at Summer of Love.

If you can make it or want more information you can always check out the facebook event page here.

Hope you enjoyed my little preview - See you on Saturday!

Mama Update....

Isn't she cute!?

Finally.... 


After almost 3 weeks since the accident, my mom was able to go home on Friday morning! The accident happened on Monday morning, June 18th. She went to Westside Regional that morning for emergency surgery and was released to go to HealthSouth the following Monday, June 25th. 


The week before she went to HealthSouth was the toughest week I've ever experienced in my life. So many thoughts about life and the way it can change without warning at any moment... 


The surgery was an emergency brain surgery, she had hit her head so hard on the sidewalk that her brain "twisted" if you will and all of the fluid went from one side to the other. This turned into a major contusion and clot that needed to be removed ASAP. He actually had to remove a piece of her skull to get it out and then put it back in with rivets. The surgeon, who is hilarious, told everyone not to worry. The table he put her skull down on was sterilized and he cleaned it off before he put it back in her head. Thanks Dr. Foltz!


So... after a few hours in surgery and 25 staples in her head, she was out and expected to make a full recovery. After the surgery my mom spoke with us for a couple days and then went into a hibernation of sorts for 5 days. She was not responding to us and from what we fearing, was getting worse. 


All of that ended on Sunday morning the 24th. My dad went in early that morning and was greeted with a "Hello!" from my mom. Such an amazing miracle.... the doctors all told us that she would be back (the swelling needed to go down before she would be back to see us), but it was so rough that week. My dad called me that morning from the hospital with a little, "Someone wants to say hello to you" When I got there, I cried like a baby. I was just so happy to hear her voice, see her and know that she was improving. Each day since then has been better and better. She has a little physical and speech therapy to work on, but we see great improvements each day! 


Because of the emergency, we missed out on my mom and my niece Kayla's birthdays. So Saturday night, we went to my parents house to swim and celebrate life....

Happy Birthday Mom and Kayla!

This entire experience has taught me some major life lessons... Most importantly, that life is too short for anything else but love. Treat everyone as if it will be the last time you will ever see them. Hold on to that hug for another couple seconds. Tell people you love them. Don't hold grudges. Keep moving forward. I would never want to look back and say what if; this has taught me that 10 fold.

Thank you all for everything you've done for us over the past few weeks. The outpouring of love is definitely what has kept us all strong! I love you all, XO - Tara