Whitney Mercilus on Draft Day (Photo: Courtesy Houston Chron)
Watch me Whit, then watch me JJ
Heading into Week 11, there is one player I don’t think has gotten the credit he deserves, so I’m going to dedicate this entire piece to him and the reasons to love him. He is Whitney Mercilus – outside linebacker for the Houston Texans.
I had been noticing it for a while, and thought it was only me. But last week I posted my thoughts on FB and got some very interesting feedback and quite a few likes, so I knew it wasn’t just me. Thankfully.
Back in May, the Texans signed Mercilus to a four-year contract extension worth $26 million (including $10.8 guaranteed, and a $5.25 million signing bonus), so Texans fans – not to mention the rest of the NFL – better get used to seeing his face. Mostly quarterbacks. And they should be worried.
Last week against Tennessee (though it was just Mettenberger…), the Texans tied a single-game franchise record w/ 7.0 sacks AS A TEAM. The Texans also recorded 7.0 sacks in 2011 against Jacksonville and 2005 against St. Louis.
Mettenberger was sacked on 18% of his dropbacks – the highest percentage in Texan history. And guess who had the most sacks in last weeks game? I’ll give you a hint – it wasn’t J.J. Watt although he jumps around and tries to take sole credit for a lot of the combined efforts (not saying I wouldn’t do the same, but…).
You guessed it – Mercilus was the one who tallied a career-high 3.5 sacks (J.J. still did a damn fine job with 2.5 takedowns). It’s teamwork guys. Last week, J.J. and Whitney became the first pair in Texans history to record at least 2 sacks each in a game.
Mercilus’ career-high 3.5 sacks is tied for second-most in a game in Texans history. (Connor Barwin, 4.0 at JAX, 11/27/11, and Mario Williams, 3.5 vs. DEN, 12/13/07.)
There’s no secret J.J. leads the team’s defense and pretty much the team and the entire city – the girlfriendless cover boy has 28 quarterback hits just the year (that’s more than the entire team combined). The next closest with QB hits for the year is Whitney with just 8.
So far this season, the Texans TFL (tackles for loss) are lead by Watt with 16, Mercilus with 10, then by Jadeveon Clowney with 4 and Christian Covington with 3.
The Texans run a three-man rotation at outside linebacker and it seems rather astounding that Mercilus is still fighting for his permanent spot against #1 overall draft pick Jadeveon Clowney, who seems to constantly be battling injuries. It’s like the Texans are trying to prove to the nation that Clowney was worth the #1 pick (with or without an injury) by keeping him there.
For a few reasons to love Whitney Mercilus off the field, just check out his inspiring and funny Twitter page, where he’s not afraid to show some personality and his love for the Lord.
Whitney Mercilus Twitter
In his fourth season, this could be his best yet. To make this a really standout season for #59, he only needs 2.0 sacks to set his single-season career-high, surpassing his previous high of 7.0 in 2013.
The Texans drafted Mercilus from Illinois as the 26th overall pick, where he led the nation in sacks per game (1.23) and fumbles forced per game (0.833) as a senior. His first season with the Texans (2012) was the year the team went 14-2 and were AFC South Champions.
Keep an eye out for great things by the Texans defense, specifically #59.
Entrepreneur Excitement Blog Series #1 – Manor Home Decor with Beth DeLozier-Hayes
Entrepreneurs make the world go ’round. At least that’s what I think.
A few weeks ago I looked back at the group of friends I had – the ones I was texting, having brunch with (or delicious cocktails with), the ones I ran into at some of the big-name events here in Houston and it hit me – I know a lot of really talented people. So why not create an Entrepreneur Excitement Blog Series here on The Blonde Side?
It means the world to me when people showcase my business and talents, so I want to do the same for some really rad businesses and people in my life. With that said, here’s our first interview in this series.
I’m not sure exactly how long I’ve known Beth, but it’s been at least five years. During that time Beth has proven to not only be a terrific and trusted friend (not to mention reliable dog-sitter!), she has shared some creative and brilliant ideas along the way – whether figuring out how to maximize my 600sq. ft loft-style apartment (at the time) or help get me out of some oft-times ridiculous situations I find myself in by just lending an ear or laughing with me. Her creativity and drive to not only succeed but shine in her own way is unparalleled.
It should go without saying (but I’m saying it anyways) that Beth was the perfect choice for my first profile in this series. (And I’m not just bragging because she’s a friend – Manor has received quite the high praise in the short time they’ve been in business.)
Check out The Blonde Side’s exclusive interview with Beth:
The Blonde Side: Tell everyone who you are?
Beth DeLozier-Hayes: Founder/Creative Director at Manor Home Decor
TBS: How did we meet?
BDH: We met on Twitter somehow (I don’t remember the exact circumstances) when you were looking for an organizer/decorator to assist you in your loft.
TBS: Correction – we met when you so kindly volunteered your services for an auction item back when I was running Charity Chicks Houston. Then I talked you into helping me with my tiny little loft…
TBS: Tell me about your job?
BDH: I am an interior stylist that loves creating smashing spaces, for smashing people. My newest venture Manor (linked above) is sharing all of our favorite furniture, lighting, home decor and gifts in one pretty online shop that anyone, anywhere can peruse.
TBS: Do you have any funny Jayme moments you want to recount?
BDH: Though I wasn’t there, the story of the guy throwing a brick through your window and it landing on your chest still makes me die laughing.
Editor’s explanation: Someone tried to break into my house when I lived in a not-so-great part of town and I happened to be home. They used a brick to break the window to enter and it landed on me. I had just taken an Ambien and called the police, and well…you can just imagine how that conversation went with Houston law enforcement after taking such a med.
TBS: How would you describe Jayme’s style?
BDH: Verbally – Jayme is comically honest, and lacks a filter…in a good way! Fashionably – Jayme’s personal style is a good mix of spunky activewear and elevated basics, unexpected choices, and effortless, relatable pairings.
TBS: If you had ONE product at Manor that would be perfect for sports fans at The Blonde Side…
BDH: Well I know you’re a big Florida State fan, so this Arrow Gold Foil print would be great (and
FSU Fans: Arrows Gold Foil Print at shopthemanor.com
it’s on sale). And I don’t know if this is really for sports fans, but you seem to be obsessed with our selection of Wondermade Marshmallows – I think you’ve bought more than anyone else.
Editor’s note: these come in champagne flavors and now a fireball flavor! And s’mores of course!
TBS: What does supporting not only local Houston folks mean to you, but specifically other women? Do you find it rare to see other women wanting to help instead of tearing them down?
BDH: Houstonians supporting local businesses are a HUGE reason why the city has grown substantially (both financially and culturally) in the last decade. It really is its own little (or HUGE) city of dreams. I’ve watched so many friends start their own endeavors over the years, and it’s amazing how much local support rallies around them. Especially women supporting other women. I’ve even witnessed women who are technically competitors find ways to collaborate for charity events. There doesn’t have to be one winner. We can all make it.
TBS: Your business is pretty new – what was the final straw to say “I can do this on my own?”
BDH: Though I loved my current job/company, I knew it wasn’t something that could be sustainable long term, and I was ready to spice things up a bit. Adding an online boutique as a sister shop was a natural step forward.
TBS: What is your driving force behind running your own business? I know firsthand it’s hard as balls, what keeps you going?
BDH: Wanting to constantly be challenged creatively.
[Also worth noting – Beth has a huge heart. Beth and I were both asked to participate in an End Domestic Violence campaign with AVDA back in January.]
TBS: This is a sports column, so I have to ask – favorite team?
BDH: Even though I’m a transplant, going to Astros games is one of my favorite things in the world. (And my northeastern family would kill me if I didn’t mention the Redskins.)
TBS: If you could style a gal going to a sporting event, how would you style her? Specifics?
BDH: A crown braid is ideal for summer sporting events. It’s feminine, and keeps you cool. I seem to gravitate toward vintage or distressed team t-shirts that are well-fitted. Pair those with a cutoff skirt or shorts, and some cute converse and you’re all set.
Wondermade Gold & Champagne Marshmallows (available at shopthemanor.com)
TBS: Name a magazine, website or author you can’t put down?
BDH: Real Simple Magazine. They always have a new/inventive way of looking at the world, whether it be interior design, fashion, recipes, and life in general. The latest issue always makes me feel inspired.
TBS: Look in your bag – what’s the most random thing in there?
BDH: Tape measure. Random to most, but I use it multiple times a day.
TBS: Most embarrassing/random thing in your Google search history?
BDH: How to get mildew out of clothing…eeek. Things get crazy around here, laundry is often forgotten, and in Houston your wet laundry to dryer window is small.
TBS: 2015 is practically over (shocking and scary!) – what’s ONE goal for the remainder of the year?
BDH: To spend more time relaxing (and unplugging) with family and friends. I read the quote recently, “No man ever said on his deathbed, I wish I spent more time on business.” I always try to keep that in the back of my mind, as a reminder to work smarter.
TBS: Best Halloween costume you’ve ever worn?
BDH: During the 2008 election year, I was told by many that I looked like Sarah Palin. So I dressed in similar attire, gave myself the updo, and carried around a faux “dead” stuffed husky. People spoke to me all night like I was really the governor…it was surreal.
TBS: Moment you are most proud of?
BDH: Other than of course the birth of Lawson, which took years of hard work, positive thoughts and wishes, the birth of Manor would be next. Having my own shop was a dream for years, and when we finally launched, it was like my second child was born.
TBS: How can The Blonde Side fans become fans of yours on social media?
BDH: Follow on Twitter & Instagram: @shopthemanor
TBS: Since your site is so rad, how about offering our readers a discount?
BDH: Absolutely – use TBS20 for 20% off your entire purchase – code is valid until December 12, 2015.
Sponsor: Speaking of makeovers, have you Houston folks checked out The Durham House? What once was old is new again by way of a major makeover plus an all-new menu with the debut of The Durham House, a southern-chic, laidback eatery off Washington Avenue where a Louisiana-led triumvirate – Floyd’s Cajun Kitchen, Mardi Gras Grill, and, most recently, Woodrow’s Heights – once lived.
Know someone we should profile in this Entrepreneur Excitement Series? Leave a comment below or shoot us an email – jayme @ theblondeside [.] com.
Donate to Run10Feed10 by December 1st to be eligible for some great prizes!
I’m starting to feel like Sally Struthers’ PSA commercials, but seriously, I don’t ask for money/donations often, and when I do, they are ones that I believe in so much.
Here’s the thing – I’m a freelance writer. What that really means is that I don’t make a lot of money. At all.
Why do you care that I’m broke?
Because when I choose a charity or non-profit to support, I work hard to make sure even the little donations matter. If you can only donate $10, that’s PERFECT. Because guess what? TEN DOLLARS DOES A LOT!
Here’s the kicker and where you can seriously make a HUGE impact: If I can get TEN OF YOU to donate just $10 each, together we can provide a family of 4 meals for an entire month!
And since your hard-earned $10 means so much to me and so many others in need, I am offering prizes! (Right now, odds are good – there are ten people entered to win four prizes.)
For every $10 donation, you are entered to win one of these prizes, thanks to my team at Women’s Health Magazine: Damsen jet speaker set, Love FEED Projects Tote, Women’s Medium Racerback RUN10 Tank, or a mophie juice pack!
(For every $10 you donate, you are entered that many times (i.e. $30 donation = 3 entries). Those who previously donated, you are automatically entered as well!)
We are asking that all donations be made by December 1st. (Yes, these donations are tax-deductible too!)
Thank you in advance. And even if you don’t donate to this cause, please consider sharing this page or reading the website to learn more about it. As the holidays approach, lets all make an effort to help someone else out – whether that’s a donation to your favorite cause, spending time volunteering or just helping make your small corner of the world a happier and brighter place. Deal?
https://theblondeside.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/Screen-Shot-2015-11-16-at-10.08.07-AM.png6281034Jaymehttps://theblondeside.com//wp-content/uploads/2018/06/1526998321020-300x192.pngJayme2015-11-16 10:18:502015-11-16 10:18:50Donate to Run10Feed10: Please HELP
As I get older, I learn things about myself every day. For instance: I get hangry real quick. Seriously, I’m not proud of it and it isn’t pretty.
One of my number one tips if you’re a girl on the go (like myself), is to always be prepared. You will never catch me without at least 1-2 snacks in my computer or travel bag. Not only does it keep my energy levels from crashing and me getting intensely hangry, but it helps save money and my diet along the way. Have you ever been driving or running errands and immediately hunger hits?
In the past I had options A and B: hit the drivethru on the left or the one on the right. Now it’s just as easy and filling to reach into my bag for a healthy and easy snack like a LARABAR. It’s also convenient, so it’s a great way to fuel my body with good, clean food when I’m on the go (which is pretty much always).
LARABAR is a great snack because it’s simple, real and delicious, not to mention it’s gluten free, diary free and non-GMO. I’ve always been told to look at food labels and if there are ingredients you don’t know (or can’t pronounce!) to move on.
LARABAR is made with just fruits, nuts and spices and that’s it. For example, one of my favorite flavors, Peanut Butter Cookie is made from just dates, peanuts, and sea salt. Pretty sure I can pronounce all of those ingredients!
A few real-life examples when having a snack (like LARABAR) in my bag has been helpful:
Getting stuck in Houston traffic
Being stranded at an airport (a delay not long enough to go buy a full over-priced meal)
Posted up at a coffeeshop, starting to get hungry, but not ready to pack up your computer and notepad for lunch (or dinner)
Heading to or from the gym – need fuel for your body
Wanting a quick bite of something sweet (Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip and Apple Pie LARABARS hit the spot for this one!)
And yes, if you’re wondering, these would make for a great stocking stuffer, just in time for the holidays.
https://theblondeside.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/5az_bor.jpg334478Jaymehttps://theblondeside.com//wp-content/uploads/2018/06/1526998321020-300x192.pngJayme2015-11-09 23:05:332015-11-09 23:05:33LARABAR: For The Win
Who needs teeth whitening apps when you have Colgate Total Daily Repair?
I’m going to be brutally honest here…teeth and smile are a big thing for me.
It’s one of the first things I notice in a guy and one of the first things I say when I compliment a woman about how beautiful she is (not just teeth, but a beautiful and confident smile go A LONG way).
So if I’m going to put a lot of stock in other people’s smiles, it should go without saying I put A TON of stock (and investment) into my own.
While many girls love that FaceTune app to make their teeth whiter (you cheaters!), I prefer to do it IN REAL LIFE.
Needless to say, I’m always on the hunt for the perfect toothpastes and whitening products, and just overall mouth care, so I recently checked out Colgate Total Daily Repair.
I’m into white teeth and keeping a healthy mouth all-year round, but no time is it more important for me than right after Halloween. No matter how much I work out or talk about fitness or the fact I wear yoga pants 24/7, I love Halloween candy. Unfortunately it leaves a sugary residue on my teeth and increases chances for cavities, but this new toothpaste, which contains a multi-active formula that helps repair teeth and gum damage (before you may know it even exists) is a total game-changer.
I don’t think indulging in candy is bad, but I do think it’s important that you continue a regular workout routine and that you definitely protect your one-of-a-kind smile with a strong toothpaste like this Colgate Total Daily Repair.
This toothpaste also helps remineralize weakened enamel (which can be caused by sugary candies) to help prevent cavities and strengthen teeth, as well as help improve overall gum health by killing bacteria that can cause gingivitis.
*Sidenote, if you live in Houston, I have a terrific dentist to recommend, just leave a comment or message me for info!
Aside from a healthy and bright smile, I am also a huge advocate of a daily face moisturizer (SPF is a MUST) like this one from Neutrogena as well as taking daily vitamins as well as taking at least two packs of Emergen-C each week and of course Burt’s Bees Brightening Line and lip products.
What are your beauty hacks or favorite products? I’d love to check them out!
Here’s a question for you guys – I was recently told that taking a plant or food-based vitamin is best (a more organic way to take your vitamins). My doctors have always recommended pre-natal vitamins as the best overall vitamin for women in their 20’s and 30’s, so who knows of a great organic pre-natal vitamin I can try? Thanks in advance!
Halloween note: If you have extra candy (and don’t want to tempt yourself to eat it all), I LOVE THIS IDEA of sending it to deployed troops.
JERGENS® Wet Skin™ Moisturizer glides onto wet skin and instantly absorbs for twice the moisturization in half the time*
I’m a sucker for new products, especially ones that claim to be good for my skin or health, so I recently checked out Jergens Wet Skin Moisturizer and was pleasantly surprised.
I’ve long been told that letting your skin air dry after a shower is the best thing for your skin. But I’ve never been able to do it. Just standing there dripping water seems like a waste of time, not to mention, I never feel completely dry.
This new Jergens Wet Skin Moisturizer kind of forced me to let my skin air dry post-shower, because it’s meant to be applied to wet skin, immediately following your shower. Somehow (maybe it’s just a trick my brain is playing on me), but air drying knowing that a moisturizer will absorb instantly and keep my skin soft for 24 hours makes me wait those few extra minutes. Plus, to be honest, it gives me at least 60 seconds in the day where I slow down and just relax (because I’m too wet to grab my phone and check emails or do anything else!).
And I’ll be honest – I was incredibly skeptical of this product. I figured the moisturizing powers would slide down my wet skin along with the remaining shower droplets and not end up doing it’s job, making me feel like I forgot to apply lotion altogether, but I was wrong.
Surprisingly, there’s no sticky residue afterwards either.
While it’s true, “there’s no need to wait for skin to dry before applying,” it’s not actually a time-saver, if I’m being honest. It’s just a great way to moisturize your skin and keep it soft and refreshed for a full 24 hours, by locking in the moisture and keeping your skin looking radiant. If I’m in a rush, I’ll pat dry before applying.
The revolutionary formula goes –and stays—on your skin and not down the drain. With this one-of-a-kind lotion, just apply to wet skin before you dry for a superior way to moisturize—quicker than ever.
*2X the moisturization in a single application clinical study; 1/2 the time vs. ordinary lotion
