This is of my personal favorites from that set:
And here are some that you haven't seen yet!
More to come tomorrow!
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
#44: Engagement Pictures, Part Three
So I just got the CD with the rest of the pictures from Jewel last night. So excited to show them to you all! If you haven't seen the ones she put on Facebook, check them out here!
This is of my personal favorites from that set:
I'm also a fan of this one (along with tons of other people):
And here are some that you haven't seen yet!
This is of my personal favorites from that set:
And here are some that you haven't seen yet!
Monday, November 29, 2010
#43: On the Road Again
I never want to get on the road again. Our drive home yesterday was smooth sailing for the first half (distance wise, not time-wise). The second half was horrendous. Bumper to bumper traffic. I decided to drive the whole time so J could rest up for his drive back from my house to Richmond. He did this instead:
Gotta love him.
We only made two stops during our 8 hour drive (thank you to my bladder for not making us stop more). We stopped at the first rest area in Virginia from the North Carolina side of 85N, and then we stopped at a gas station somewhere in the middle of nowhere Virginia. Both breaks were less than five minutes, and boy did we feel it when we made it back to my house. We both felt like old people!
I mentioned the Young House Love road trip in an earlier post. We decided to do our version of the hour photos on our way home. Here they are: all 8 of them.
J left almost immediately after we made it back to my house. He stopped by his parents house to drop stuff off, then got back on the road to Richmond, arriving around 9:30pm. Such a long day. I don't know when I'll see him again. He won't be home til Christmas break, and even then, it might not be until the 22nd or 23rd, if not Christmas Eve. I can't visit him between now and then because I've got my weekends booked and he's going to be super busy with end of semester projects and commissions he's got lined up. The good thing is that this is the LAST December we will be spending apart. Thank God.
Stay tuned for posts later this week: engagement pictures, case study and some wedding updates!
Gotta love him.
We only made two stops during our 8 hour drive (thank you to my bladder for not making us stop more). We stopped at the first rest area in Virginia from the North Carolina side of 85N, and then we stopped at a gas station somewhere in the middle of nowhere Virginia. Both breaks were less than five minutes, and boy did we feel it when we made it back to my house. We both felt like old people!
I mentioned the Young House Love road trip in an earlier post. We decided to do our version of the hour photos on our way home. Here they are: all 8 of them.
 |
| Happy to be on the way home |
 |
| A little 'tude |
 |
| kinda tired of driving already |
 |
| showing off the bling |
 |
| nanny nanny poo poo |
 |
| still far from home |
 |
| stuck in traffic (see brake lights) |
 |
| dark and still not home |
Stay tuned for posts later this week: engagement pictures, case study and some wedding updates!
Sunday, November 28, 2010
#42: Busy Bee
I have been a very busy girl the past few days! J and I drove home from Charlotte today. We left after breakfast with everybody, finally getting on the road at 11. We finally made it back to my house a little bit before 7pm. It was such a long day!!
I don't have any videos or photos for you today, but boy, do I have an awesome week of posts planned! Stay tuned!
How was your weekend? Did you travel for Thanksgiving or were you sane enough to stay home?
I don't have any videos or photos for you today, but boy, do I have an awesome week of posts planned! Stay tuned!
How was your weekend? Did you travel for Thanksgiving or were you sane enough to stay home?
Saturday, November 27, 2010
#41: Birthdays Are a Good Thing
Tonight we celebrated Grandma Page's birthday. We had such a wonderful time! We started out with a wine and cheese time at some friends of Grandma's, Debbie and Maria. These two ladies are sweeter than sweet tea (and boy is it good down here). It was so great meeting all of her friends and I enjoyed every minute of it. Then we headed over to Grandma's church for a sit down dinner. As we entered the room, we were met with a hand drawn portrait done by J on a white board, no less.
J's mom had worked for a long time on a slideshow. It featured pictures of Grandma when she was a little girl, and growing up, graduating high school and college. It also included wedding pictures and J's grandparents wedding announcement in the local newspaper. Then it included pictures of the family over the years, from when J's parents got married, his sister was born, he was born and through their childhoods up until just yesterday when J and I took a picture with Grandma at Jack in the Box. I thoroughly enjoyed watching the slideshow. What a wonderful life Grandma has had thus far. So many amazing stories and memories. I have gotten to spend a considerable amount of time with Grandma over the past couple days and have thoroughly enjoyed her stories and her laugh and her wisdom. There is much to be learned from a woman who has lived 80 years (don't kill me for telling them your age, Grandma! It's something to be incredibly proud of!!).
We enjoyed a delicious dinner prepared by J's Uncle Randy. He is an uh-mazing, incredibly talented chef. He prepared such a fantastic dinner, beginning with homemade rolls from a recipe from J's great grandmother. We then moved on to garlic studded pork loin with roasted vegetables and wilted garlic baby spinach. We finished it off with a rousing rendition of happy birthday and a delicious vanilla cake.
It was such a fun night and it was a delight to celebrate the birthday of a woman is very dear to my heart. Happy Birthday Grandma. I love you!
J's mom had worked for a long time on a slideshow. It featured pictures of Grandma when she was a little girl, and growing up, graduating high school and college. It also included wedding pictures and J's grandparents wedding announcement in the local newspaper. Then it included pictures of the family over the years, from when J's parents got married, his sister was born, he was born and through their childhoods up until just yesterday when J and I took a picture with Grandma at Jack in the Box. I thoroughly enjoyed watching the slideshow. What a wonderful life Grandma has had thus far. So many amazing stories and memories. I have gotten to spend a considerable amount of time with Grandma over the past couple days and have thoroughly enjoyed her stories and her laugh and her wisdom. There is much to be learned from a woman who has lived 80 years (don't kill me for telling them your age, Grandma! It's something to be incredibly proud of!!).
We enjoyed a delicious dinner prepared by J's Uncle Randy. He is an uh-mazing, incredibly talented chef. He prepared such a fantastic dinner, beginning with homemade rolls from a recipe from J's great grandmother. We then moved on to garlic studded pork loin with roasted vegetables and wilted garlic baby spinach. We finished it off with a rousing rendition of happy birthday and a delicious vanilla cake.
It was such a fun night and it was a delight to celebrate the birthday of a woman is very dear to my heart. Happy Birthday Grandma. I love you!
Friday, November 26, 2010
#40: Full of Thanks (and Food)
I have so much to be thankful for! I spent an amazing day with my family and J yesterday, cooking up a storm and doing dishes like crazy! We got on the road at 4:30am to head to Charlotte, NC to visit J's Grandma. She is having a big birthday bash tomorrow, so we arrived at lunchtime to run errands and hang out before the festivities.
Here's a few pictures from Thanksgiving yesterday:
Once we got on the road, we laughed and laughed and sang and slept and just hung out. It was so much fun!
We ended the night with a delicious dinner prepared by Grandma Page and Uncle Randy (and can I say a little assistance from moi?)
And this is who I spent the rest of my night with :))
Can't wait to share more engagement pictures and party pictures with ya'll (I AM in the South now, ya know??)
Here's a few pictures from Thanksgiving yesterday:
 | |||
| Our Beautiful Table! |
 |
| My full, but colorless plate (What can I say? I don't like cranberries or yams) |
 | ||||
| After dinner cuddling with Little Monster and Uncle J |
 | |
| My handsome fiance |
 |
| 6 hours into our drive (a little nod to the Young House Love road trip) |
 | |||
| I finally got my Jack in the Box after almost two years!!!! |
We ended the night with a delicious dinner prepared by Grandma Page and Uncle Randy (and can I say a little assistance from moi?)
And this is who I spent the rest of my night with :))
Can't wait to share more engagement pictures and party pictures with ya'll (I AM in the South now, ya know??)
Thursday, November 25, 2010
#39: Things I'm Thankful For
In honor of Thanksgiving, I'd like to share some things I'm thankful for. Some are serious and some are silly, but hopefully you should be able to distinguish the difference. And as always, it's in list form:
1. My amazing fiancé: my rock, my best friend and love of my life.
2. My amazing mom, who has been my best friend. She has always been there for me, teaching me everything I need to know about being a good wife, a good mom, and a good friend. I will never be able to repay her.
3. My pops. Love this guy so much. He's always been there when I need to talk. He keeps me updated on the sports stuff I need to know. And we laugh so much it should be illegal. Not even kidding. It's not a full day until my dad has tears in his eyes from laughing so hard.
4. My siblings. Too many stories have been made over the past 23 years, it would take me forever to share. But I will say this: thanks for breaking my bed, sister and thanks for eating the pie, brother.
5. My sister in law and sister in law to be: I didn't get to choose you, but I'm sure darn happy you're in my life!
6. My future in laws: thanks for welcoming me into your family. I can't wait to share and make many memories with you!
7. My two adorable nephews and beautiful niece: You three bring me so much joy and laughter!
8. Mrs. Cubbison's cornbread stuffing. No joke. I have had this stuffing every year since I was born, except for one year. My mom tells the story every year, about the one year she made a different kind of stuffing and none of us touched it because it didn't smell right. Oh, and did I mention they don't sell this stuff in Virginia?
(yes, I attached a picture)
9. My fat cat, Tabby. I love you even though you have scratched the crap out of me and hissed at me an uncountable amount of times since we got you back in 2000.
10. My loving and giving and talented friends. I wouldn't be where I am today without my friends by my side. Thank you for including me in your lives!
11. Target. Yes, I'm thankful for this store. I could literally not live without it. And yes, I know. My siblings both work for Wal-Mart. No bigs. They love me still.
12. My third momma, Beth: You are amazing, hands down. J and I couldn't have survived the past three years if not for you opening up your home to us. Thanks for all the meals and talks and hugs!
13. Shoes. 'Nuff said. Picture attached.
14. The comforts of home. I am so grateful to have a roof over my head, food to eat, and a family that loves me even though I drive them absolutely nuts with my OCD and my ADD and my MBJ (makes bad jokes).
15. Our servicemen and women: You are the reason we can live in the land of the free and the home of the brave. My gratitude cannot be fully put into words, it is too great. The sacrifice you make for people like me is astounding and I wish you all safety and happiness.
16. Families and loved ones of our servicemen and women: You make a huge sacrifice and it is to be commended. I respect each and every one of you and pray for safety over your families when your loved ones are overseas.
17. My car, Darth Vapor: You have been worth every single dollar I have shelled out for you. Thanks for being reliable and getting me to work, to play, to Richmond and every other city you've taken me to. Please last for like, a full decade, because I can't afford a sibling for you right now.
18. Laughter: it really IS the best medicine.
19. Birthdays: I recently celebrated my 23rd birthday and J's 24th is coming up in a couple weeks. I am so thankful I've been around this long, healthy, to experience everything God has for me.
20. The thing I'm most thankful for this Thanksgiving, and really every day, is God's sacrifice on the cross for all of us. His mercy and grace are very evident in my life and for that, I am most thankful.
I hope all of you have a wonderful and safe and belly-filling Thanksgiving! xo
Blogging from the road tomorrow! Stay tuned! You might even get a video treat! :)
1. My amazing fiancé: my rock, my best friend and love of my life.
3. My pops. Love this guy so much. He's always been there when I need to talk. He keeps me updated on the sports stuff I need to know. And we laugh so much it should be illegal. Not even kidding. It's not a full day until my dad has tears in his eyes from laughing so hard.
4. My siblings. Too many stories have been made over the past 23 years, it would take me forever to share. But I will say this: thanks for breaking my bed, sister and thanks for eating the pie, brother.
5. My sister in law and sister in law to be: I didn't get to choose you, but I'm sure darn happy you're in my life!
6. My future in laws: thanks for welcoming me into your family. I can't wait to share and make many memories with you!
7. My two adorable nephews and beautiful niece: You three bring me so much joy and laughter!
8. Mrs. Cubbison's cornbread stuffing. No joke. I have had this stuffing every year since I was born, except for one year. My mom tells the story every year, about the one year she made a different kind of stuffing and none of us touched it because it didn't smell right. Oh, and did I mention they don't sell this stuff in Virginia?
(yes, I attached a picture)9. My fat cat, Tabby. I love you even though you have scratched the crap out of me and hissed at me an uncountable amount of times since we got you back in 2000.
10. My loving and giving and talented friends. I wouldn't be where I am today without my friends by my side. Thank you for including me in your lives!
11. Target. Yes, I'm thankful for this store. I could literally not live without it. And yes, I know. My siblings both work for Wal-Mart. No bigs. They love me still.
12. My third momma, Beth: You are amazing, hands down. J and I couldn't have survived the past three years if not for you opening up your home to us. Thanks for all the meals and talks and hugs!
13. Shoes. 'Nuff said. Picture attached.
14. The comforts of home. I am so grateful to have a roof over my head, food to eat, and a family that loves me even though I drive them absolutely nuts with my OCD and my ADD and my MBJ (makes bad jokes).
15. Our servicemen and women: You are the reason we can live in the land of the free and the home of the brave. My gratitude cannot be fully put into words, it is too great. The sacrifice you make for people like me is astounding and I wish you all safety and happiness.
16. Families and loved ones of our servicemen and women: You make a huge sacrifice and it is to be commended. I respect each and every one of you and pray for safety over your families when your loved ones are overseas.
17. My car, Darth Vapor: You have been worth every single dollar I have shelled out for you. Thanks for being reliable and getting me to work, to play, to Richmond and every other city you've taken me to. Please last for like, a full decade, because I can't afford a sibling for you right now.
18. Laughter: it really IS the best medicine.
19. Birthdays: I recently celebrated my 23rd birthday and J's 24th is coming up in a couple weeks. I am so thankful I've been around this long, healthy, to experience everything God has for me.
20. The thing I'm most thankful for this Thanksgiving, and really every day, is God's sacrifice on the cross for all of us. His mercy and grace are very evident in my life and for that, I am most thankful.
I hope all of you have a wonderful and safe and belly-filling Thanksgiving! xo
Blogging from the road tomorrow! Stay tuned! You might even get a video treat! :)
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
#38: Sneaker Peeker, Part 2
After spending over an hour traipsing all over Belle Isle and the gorgeous foliage and rocks and waterness, we decided to tempt the sunlight (as it was nearing 4pm) and head into the city. We ended up parking on a cobblestone street in Shockoe Bottom. I had brought along some props: a black wooden frame and a wooden "Love" in cursive, also black. I bought it in Lancaster, PA back during my trip with mom earlier this spring (read about that trip here). Since it's black, it will go perfectly in our master bedroom (I'm sure I'll post my design ideas in a later post).
The sun was seriously setting as we arrived, but we had SO much fun. I can't give you too many details, but I will tell you that:
1. I took my ring off for some awesome ring shots
2. We almost died in the middle of the street
3. A wooden frame is seriously heavy when you're only holding it up with one arm
4. Some people look at you like you're nuts when you're walking through the city with props and a curly haired photographer
5. I had the time of my life!
Here's your sneak peek for today! Enjoy:
As soon as I get all the images from Jewel, I'll be sure to share them here! Or "like" Jewel's facebook page and see them when they pop up in your news feed!
Tomorrow's post will be Thanksgiving themed, and then I'll be blogging from the road, since J and I are headed to Charlotte early Friday morning!
The sun was seriously setting as we arrived, but we had SO much fun. I can't give you too many details, but I will tell you that:
1. I took my ring off for some awesome ring shots
2. We almost died in the middle of the street
3. A wooden frame is seriously heavy when you're only holding it up with one arm
4. Some people look at you like you're nuts when you're walking through the city with props and a curly haired photographer
5. I had the time of my life!
Here's your sneak peek for today! Enjoy:
As soon as I get all the images from Jewel, I'll be sure to share them here! Or "like" Jewel's facebook page and see them when they pop up in your news feed!
Tomorrow's post will be Thanksgiving themed, and then I'll be blogging from the road, since J and I are headed to Charlotte early Friday morning!
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
#37: Sneaker Peeker, Part 1
On Sunday, one of my best friends and seriously talented photographers, Jewel Peach (check out her professional facebook here: http://www.facebook.com/jewelpeachphotography ), and I headed down to Richmond to do an engagement photo shoot. You can see our first shoot here. Why a second one, you may ask. Jewel and I felt that although the photos are gorgeous, they didn't reflect who J and I are as a couple. I also looked at them and thought "what the heck am I wearing?" I went with such a boring color palette and unflattering fit that didn't photograph like I imagined it would (no fault to Jewel, I seriously screwed up that one). So we planned a take two.
We started at Chipotle. Naturally. We filled up on yummy food and my food baby was happy, but not fully protruding (these aren't maternity shots, ya know) and then headed up (down? man I get so lost in Richmond) to a beautiful place called Belle Isle. It's right on the James River and there's even a foot bridge from one side of it to the other. Simply breathtaking, I tell you. Tears formed in my eyes at the sight of it. Ok, quite the opposite. We laughed the entire time we were there! J and Jewel were all over the place, saying "let's go over here" and "oooo, that would look so cool!!" and I'm saying, "Is there even a path over there?" and "I'm not going to get poison ivy, am I?" Such a scaredy cat. We even hopped around on the huge rocks IN the river. No lie. And here is today's sneak peek to prove it:
Part 2, including a wardrobe change, coming tomorrow! Stay tuned :)
We started at Chipotle. Naturally. We filled up on yummy food and my food baby was happy, but not fully protruding (these aren't maternity shots, ya know) and then headed up (down? man I get so lost in Richmond) to a beautiful place called Belle Isle. It's right on the James River and there's even a foot bridge from one side of it to the other. Simply breathtaking, I tell you. Tears formed in my eyes at the sight of it. Ok, quite the opposite. We laughed the entire time we were there! J and Jewel were all over the place, saying "let's go over here" and "oooo, that would look so cool!!" and I'm saying, "Is there even a path over there?" and "I'm not going to get poison ivy, am I?" Such a scaredy cat. We even hopped around on the huge rocks IN the river. No lie. And here is today's sneak peek to prove it:
Part 2, including a wardrobe change, coming tomorrow! Stay tuned :)
Monday, November 22, 2010
#36: 50 Things
I have been having some insane writer's blocks lately, so tonight I decided to let you know a little bit more about me. There's a survey-type thing going around Facebook lately, so I thought I'd indulge and do it here for you:
50 Things About Me
1. I want to live in the countryside one day (Why am I moving to Richmond? Don't ask)
2. I love doing laundry! Nothing like stacks of clean clothes :)
3. I'm pretty sure I keep the Post-it company in business. I use them for EVERYTHING.
4. I have a picture of J from when he was 7, and it makes me wonder what our kids will look like.
5. I have an addiction to shoes (Admitting you have a problem is the first step, right?)
6. I'm a country girl at heart. I've listened to country music my whole life.
7. I really hate writing in blue ink. I stick to black.
8. And for that matter, I usually only use BIC pens. I hate fountain pens and fancy pens.
9. I would rather hand write something than type it. Although I do love typing, and I type fairly fast.
10. I wish I could spend the whole summer at the beach.
11. I love the Pearls Before Swine comic. We have the calendar in our bathroom.
12. I like to help my mom pay bills. I write the checks, stamp and lick 'em closed. I think I like it because it's not my money ;)
13. I have an obsession with numbers. And 13 is my favorite. For example, I picked our wedding date for a reason: 6-25-2011 ---> 6+2+5=13 yeah...don't judge me (notice what number this is?)
14. I could not live without my iPhone.
15. J and I got engaged on NYE, and I still have the New Years hat J wore and the tiara I wore that night at dinner :)
16. I recently splurged and bought myself the Ed Hardy perfume I absolutely LOVE. I feel a little guilty every time I spritz it on.
17. I own over 60 pairs of shoes (give or take 25...ok give), but I do not own a pair of simple black pumps. I just had to get rid of my 5 year old ones because they no longer supported my feet comfortably. So sad.
18. I love to read. I can read books in no time and usually have to take more than one on a trip with me.
19. I hate those plastic eco water jugs. They smell funky, which makes my water taste funky. I buy a big bottle of water every now and then and re-use that bottle. I'm a water bottle snob. Deer Park for me :) (and Ethos from Starbucks isn't too bad either)
20. I don't eat seafood. Except I may or may not be coming around to crab. My Maryland family will be so proud. And now my dad will stop threatening to disown me.
21. I really want to be a bartender. I think it would such a fun second job to have.
22. Bed, Bath and Beyond coupons make me happy.
23. I have the best friends in the world. Love you all!!
24. My cat's name is Tabitha, but we call her Tabby. Coincidentally, she is a tabby cat.
25. I finally got my passport this year! Can't wait to use it on our honeymoon!
26. J's middle name is Edward, and I always joke that I'm going to start calling him Eddie (Wedding Planner reference anyone? Steve Edison? Come on!)
27. OPI is hands down my favorite nail polish brand EVER. I don't own anything else. And Seche Vite top coat is amazing.
28. I have started a pretty hefty wine collection. Can't wait to expand...and drink it.
29. The most I have ever paid for a pair of heels is $100. I was obsessed with Jessica Simpson high heels and used my Christmas money to buy them one year (waste of money, btw). Next most expensive? $31.45...and those were my wedding shoes.
30. I have never read a Jane Austen book. Is that a sin?
31. There is a colony of jumping crickets living in my basement. I kill at least one a day. It grosses me out to no end. And yes J, I know they won't hurt me.
32. I love peanut butter cups, but hate Reese's pieces.
33. I love peppermint patties instead of candy canes at Christmastime.
34. I feel really adult when I write checks.
35. I still have all 3 bridesmaids dresses I've worn. They're just waiting to be worn again! haha
36. On more than one occasion, I have bought a present for someone else and ended up keeping it for myself.
37. I believe everyone should own a black sharpie. They come in handy all the time.
38. A tip I learned from an old co-worker: store your pens upside down. The ink will always be ready to go.
39. I graduated in the same auditorium three times: high school (Hayfield), community college (NOVA) and university (George Mason).
40. My car's name is Darth Vapor. The color is vapor gray. It seemed fitting.
41. I cannot get my parents to get Facebook for the life of me. My grandma, J's grandma, two of my aunts and whole bunch of my family are all on it, but they swear they will never sign up.
42. My mom and I always try to one-up each other. I got a new phone, she got an iPhone. I then got an iPhone 4 and she bought a new car. I will probably never win. And that's ok with me.
43. My least favorite letter in the alphabet is G. It only seems fitting that it will be my new last initial. God does have a sense of humor.
44. The majority of the pictures on my phone are of my two adorable nephews. Sigh. Wait til I have my own kiddos. It will only get worse.
45. I love Coca-Cola. I joke about being sober from it. I went for almost three months without any. I quit cold turkey and I was a disaster for almost a week from the withdrawal headaches. I'm slowly letting it back into my life (once a week or so).
46. Since I quit Coke (haha I sound like an addict), my love for water has seriously increased. I never leave the house without my water bottle.
47. J and I joke about eloping before our actual wedding...I have a feeling our moms would kill us (not to mention our grandmas)
48. I read today that symmetry in a room brings control and balance. I think that may be why I'm obsessed with symmetry. I need a little balance. (And two is definitely better than one)
49. I love making lists. Obviously.
50. I am so grateful that all of you are reading and commenting on my blog. It means so much to me :)
xoxo
50 Things About Me
1. I want to live in the countryside one day (Why am I moving to Richmond? Don't ask)
2. I love doing laundry! Nothing like stacks of clean clothes :)
3. I'm pretty sure I keep the Post-it company in business. I use them for EVERYTHING.
4. I have a picture of J from when he was 7, and it makes me wonder what our kids will look like.
5. I have an addiction to shoes (Admitting you have a problem is the first step, right?)
6. I'm a country girl at heart. I've listened to country music my whole life.
7. I really hate writing in blue ink. I stick to black.
8. And for that matter, I usually only use BIC pens. I hate fountain pens and fancy pens.
9. I would rather hand write something than type it. Although I do love typing, and I type fairly fast.
10. I wish I could spend the whole summer at the beach.
11. I love the Pearls Before Swine comic. We have the calendar in our bathroom.
12. I like to help my mom pay bills. I write the checks, stamp and lick 'em closed. I think I like it because it's not my money ;)
13. I have an obsession with numbers. And 13 is my favorite. For example, I picked our wedding date for a reason: 6-25-2011 ---> 6+2+5=13 yeah...don't judge me (notice what number this is?)
14. I could not live without my iPhone.
15. J and I got engaged on NYE, and I still have the New Years hat J wore and the tiara I wore that night at dinner :)
16. I recently splurged and bought myself the Ed Hardy perfume I absolutely LOVE. I feel a little guilty every time I spritz it on.
17. I own over 60 pairs of shoes (give or take 25...ok give), but I do not own a pair of simple black pumps. I just had to get rid of my 5 year old ones because they no longer supported my feet comfortably. So sad.
18. I love to read. I can read books in no time and usually have to take more than one on a trip with me.
19. I hate those plastic eco water jugs. They smell funky, which makes my water taste funky. I buy a big bottle of water every now and then and re-use that bottle. I'm a water bottle snob. Deer Park for me :) (and Ethos from Starbucks isn't too bad either)
20. I don't eat seafood. Except I may or may not be coming around to crab. My Maryland family will be so proud. And now my dad will stop threatening to disown me.
21. I really want to be a bartender. I think it would such a fun second job to have.
22. Bed, Bath and Beyond coupons make me happy.
23. I have the best friends in the world. Love you all!!
24. My cat's name is Tabitha, but we call her Tabby. Coincidentally, she is a tabby cat.
25. I finally got my passport this year! Can't wait to use it on our honeymoon!
26. J's middle name is Edward, and I always joke that I'm going to start calling him Eddie (Wedding Planner reference anyone? Steve Edison? Come on!)
27. OPI is hands down my favorite nail polish brand EVER. I don't own anything else. And Seche Vite top coat is amazing.
28. I have started a pretty hefty wine collection. Can't wait to expand...and drink it.
29. The most I have ever paid for a pair of heels is $100. I was obsessed with Jessica Simpson high heels and used my Christmas money to buy them one year (waste of money, btw). Next most expensive? $31.45...and those were my wedding shoes.
30. I have never read a Jane Austen book. Is that a sin?
31. There is a colony of jumping crickets living in my basement. I kill at least one a day. It grosses me out to no end. And yes J, I know they won't hurt me.
32. I love peanut butter cups, but hate Reese's pieces.
33. I love peppermint patties instead of candy canes at Christmastime.
34. I feel really adult when I write checks.
35. I still have all 3 bridesmaids dresses I've worn. They're just waiting to be worn again! haha
36. On more than one occasion, I have bought a present for someone else and ended up keeping it for myself.
37. I believe everyone should own a black sharpie. They come in handy all the time.
38. A tip I learned from an old co-worker: store your pens upside down. The ink will always be ready to go.
39. I graduated in the same auditorium three times: high school (Hayfield), community college (NOVA) and university (George Mason).
40. My car's name is Darth Vapor. The color is vapor gray. It seemed fitting.
41. I cannot get my parents to get Facebook for the life of me. My grandma, J's grandma, two of my aunts and whole bunch of my family are all on it, but they swear they will never sign up.
42. My mom and I always try to one-up each other. I got a new phone, she got an iPhone. I then got an iPhone 4 and she bought a new car. I will probably never win. And that's ok with me.
43. My least favorite letter in the alphabet is G. It only seems fitting that it will be my new last initial. God does have a sense of humor.
44. The majority of the pictures on my phone are of my two adorable nephews. Sigh. Wait til I have my own kiddos. It will only get worse.
45. I love Coca-Cola. I joke about being sober from it. I went for almost three months without any. I quit cold turkey and I was a disaster for almost a week from the withdrawal headaches. I'm slowly letting it back into my life (once a week or so).
46. Since I quit Coke (haha I sound like an addict), my love for water has seriously increased. I never leave the house without my water bottle.
47. J and I joke about eloping before our actual wedding...I have a feeling our moms would kill us (not to mention our grandmas)
48. I read today that symmetry in a room brings control and balance. I think that may be why I'm obsessed with symmetry. I need a little balance. (And two is definitely better than one)
49. I love making lists. Obviously.
50. I am so grateful that all of you are reading and commenting on my blog. It means so much to me :)
xoxo
Sunday, November 21, 2010
#35: Meet the Parents
Watching an old movie, Room For One More, with my parents tonight. I'm going to miss doing this. Love them.
Saturday, November 20, 2010
#34: Lord of the Rings
Now I hope when you read the title of today's post, you didn't get too excited. I will not be talking about the movies, because I fell asleep watching the first one, and never gave the movies another try. Sorry.
BUT I will be talking about rings. Mine, to be exact. Some of you may know the story of what happened to my ring two days after we got engaged. As you probably know, there are two little munchkins in my house right now, so we use a lot of baby gates to keep them from getting into rooms with breakables. Two nights after we got engaged, I accidentally hit my hand while climbing over one said gate. I, paranoid, checked my ring, and lo and behold, the setting had been knocked loose.
I let my mom take a look at it, and once she touched it, the whole setting came off. I cried and cried like a baby (which J actually said was endearing), and thus started the journey of trying to get it fixed before J left for school again.
With it being just days after New Years' Day, many jewelers hadn't reopened yet. The first two jewelers we went to were closed. We tried one near my office that we usually get our jewelry repaired at, but he told me he didn't have the correct tools to fix my ring. I was heartbroken.
Heading off to work without my ring on my finger was so tough. I took it to work with me though. Yes, my friends, I showed off my ring to my boss and coworkers in a ziploc baggie. No lie.
Then, my mom finally found a jeweler that could fix it. My mom took it in, paid for the repair and I got it back about a week later, just in time for J to put it back on my finger before he left for school again. Only this time, my whole family was standing there. Kinda not cool, but whatevs. I had my ring back.
Today, I set off on an all new adventure. I went back to the same jeweler who had fixed my ring, because he told me the way my ring had to be reset, I would need a custom wedding band, most likely. So I went to see how much one would run the ol' wallet, so J and I could work it in our budgets. I did not expect to find AND buy my wedding band today. But that's what I did.
I actually met with the guy who fixed my ring, Reza. He is awesome, let me tell you. His anniversary is June 27th (it'll be his 20th anniversary the day we leave for our honeymoon!) and he said because our wedding date was so close to his, he was going to find something special for me. He really turned on the charm. We tried pairing my engagement ring with all sorts of bands: curved ones, special made ones, straight ones. But none of them really appealed to me. Nor did the price tags. I had NO idea little teeny tiny diamond bands could cost that much! Geez.
I had all but given up hope, thinking I was going to have to finance my perfect fit, custom-made band. And then Reza said, "Oh, why didn't I think of this before?! Genius!" as he took a straight band from a bridal set and matched it up to my ring. It sat lower than my ring, but the diamonds were the same size as my sidestones, and looked perfect as a set with my engagement ring. Reza looked at me and said, "Now I don't usually do this, but I'll break this set apart and let you take the band today if you want it, because your wedding date is so close to my anniversary." I knew I had to do it, I loved the ring and the price was right (on sale!!) so I said, "sold!"
It feels so good to have another thing on my never-ending checklist crossed off, and I can't wait for J to put this ring on my finger. Next to this one:
BUT I will be talking about rings. Mine, to be exact. Some of you may know the story of what happened to my ring two days after we got engaged. As you probably know, there are two little munchkins in my house right now, so we use a lot of baby gates to keep them from getting into rooms with breakables. Two nights after we got engaged, I accidentally hit my hand while climbing over one said gate. I, paranoid, checked my ring, and lo and behold, the setting had been knocked loose.
I let my mom take a look at it, and once she touched it, the whole setting came off. I cried and cried like a baby (which J actually said was endearing), and thus started the journey of trying to get it fixed before J left for school again.
With it being just days after New Years' Day, many jewelers hadn't reopened yet. The first two jewelers we went to were closed. We tried one near my office that we usually get our jewelry repaired at, but he told me he didn't have the correct tools to fix my ring. I was heartbroken.
Heading off to work without my ring on my finger was so tough. I took it to work with me though. Yes, my friends, I showed off my ring to my boss and coworkers in a ziploc baggie. No lie.
Then, my mom finally found a jeweler that could fix it. My mom took it in, paid for the repair and I got it back about a week later, just in time for J to put it back on my finger before he left for school again. Only this time, my whole family was standing there. Kinda not cool, but whatevs. I had my ring back.
Today, I set off on an all new adventure. I went back to the same jeweler who had fixed my ring, because he told me the way my ring had to be reset, I would need a custom wedding band, most likely. So I went to see how much one would run the ol' wallet, so J and I could work it in our budgets. I did not expect to find AND buy my wedding band today. But that's what I did.
I actually met with the guy who fixed my ring, Reza. He is awesome, let me tell you. His anniversary is June 27th (it'll be his 20th anniversary the day we leave for our honeymoon!) and he said because our wedding date was so close to his, he was going to find something special for me. He really turned on the charm. We tried pairing my engagement ring with all sorts of bands: curved ones, special made ones, straight ones. But none of them really appealed to me. Nor did the price tags. I had NO idea little teeny tiny diamond bands could cost that much! Geez.
I had all but given up hope, thinking I was going to have to finance my perfect fit, custom-made band. And then Reza said, "Oh, why didn't I think of this before?! Genius!" as he took a straight band from a bridal set and matched it up to my ring. It sat lower than my ring, but the diamonds were the same size as my sidestones, and looked perfect as a set with my engagement ring. Reza looked at me and said, "Now I don't usually do this, but I'll break this set apart and let you take the band today if you want it, because your wedding date is so close to my anniversary." I knew I had to do it, I loved the ring and the price was right (on sale!!) so I said, "sold!"
It feels so good to have another thing on my never-ending checklist crossed off, and I can't wait for J to put this ring on my finger. Next to this one:
Friday, November 19, 2010
#33: Out of Juice
My creative juices have dried up today...so sad. But since I have an obligation to you, my readers, I will provide you with some form of entertainment today.I think what we will do is something I will call Case Studies. I'll give you a link to a wedding from StyleMePretty.com and then we will dissect it, and figure out what parts of it work and what parts of it don't.
Here goes: Today's Case Study
Here are the parts I love (follow along because I can't copy and paste the pictures here):
1. The cupcakes! I love the rustic look with the muted colors and then the bright cupcakes for a pop of color!
2. The "R"s everywhere! I love monograms, and we have quite a few planned for use at our wedding. My new last name is so important to me and I can't wait to incorporate it into my life.
3. Love the place settings and the table decorations overall. Love the natural coloring and the simple, yet detail oriented centerpiece.
Here are the parts I could live without:
1. The blue curtain behind the cupcakes. It looks like something out of a 100 year old house. They could have used a bright, patterned tablecloth to hang as a background or maybe some green sheers. The blue seems so boring.
2. The card box. Love the idea of putting cards into a suitcase, but I'm realistic. Leaving cards out like that are just asking people to steal them. I think I just heard you gasp, but it's so true. And it happens ALL the time.
3. Candles. I love candles. But I know that people like to play with fire. And I'm not just talking little kids, I'm talking grown adults. Just ask my mom. She let our church use some of her custom made tablecloths for a reception...and one of them came back with several burn holes in them. And they're not holes from accidental wax drippings, they were intentionally burnt. And tealights are just asking for something to be stuck inside the melted wax. See the trend here?
So there are my takes. What do you think? What's your favorite part and your least favorite part of today's case study? And what would you like to see my take on in a future post?
Here goes: Today's Case Study
Here are the parts I love (follow along because I can't copy and paste the pictures here):
1. The cupcakes! I love the rustic look with the muted colors and then the bright cupcakes for a pop of color!
2. The "R"s everywhere! I love monograms, and we have quite a few planned for use at our wedding. My new last name is so important to me and I can't wait to incorporate it into my life.
3. Love the place settings and the table decorations overall. Love the natural coloring and the simple, yet detail oriented centerpiece.
Here are the parts I could live without:
1. The blue curtain behind the cupcakes. It looks like something out of a 100 year old house. They could have used a bright, patterned tablecloth to hang as a background or maybe some green sheers. The blue seems so boring.
2. The card box. Love the idea of putting cards into a suitcase, but I'm realistic. Leaving cards out like that are just asking people to steal them. I think I just heard you gasp, but it's so true. And it happens ALL the time.
3. Candles. I love candles. But I know that people like to play with fire. And I'm not just talking little kids, I'm talking grown adults. Just ask my mom. She let our church use some of her custom made tablecloths for a reception...and one of them came back with several burn holes in them. And they're not holes from accidental wax drippings, they were intentionally burnt. And tealights are just asking for something to be stuck inside the melted wax. See the trend here?
So there are my takes. What do you think? What's your favorite part and your least favorite part of today's case study? And what would you like to see my take on in a future post?
Thursday, November 18, 2010
#32: Revisiting An Old Friend
My oldest nephew E, let's just call him Little Monster (he is the cutest little monster in the world), learned a new word over the past couple weeks. It's "cake." Now while I wish I could take the credit for teaching LM this word, I have absolutely no idea where he picked it up. Not that I'm complaining.
So anyways, I thought it would be nice to revisit the cake post of yore (which seemed to garner a lot of comments).
What I failed to mention in this post was my fabulous cousin, sister from another mister, and twinnie "K Now" (like your nickname lovey?). She is the most fabulous cousin a girl could have. She lives in my home state of California, and boy do I hate her for it. Anyways, she came to visit this summer for about two weeks and since she had been taking some baking and cake decorating classes, I thought I would have her do our wedding cake. This two-tier cake was going to be funfetti (duh) and go with our cupcakes, so J and I would cut our cake, and the guests would all have cupcakes.
What I hadn't taken into consideration, and came up just a week or two ago, was that our venue doesn't allow outside food (it's a liability issue with possible food contamination, and totally understandable). Bummer. So now we have to find a bakery to produce our wedding cake, but we still have the option of doing cupcakes from Georgetown Cupcake as well.
Now comes your input, which is so greatly appreciated.
What's your take on how wedding cakes should be decorated? Let's play a little My Fair Wedding: I'll give you three choices, you tell me which one you like the best (and second best) and then you wait until the wedding day to see what I've chosen :)
Option 1: This cake made my heart beat just a little faster when I saw it on modernwedding.org! Why didn't I think of this before? No frosting on the outside! I got mixed reactions from my family (split about 50/50), so let me know what you think!
Option 2: This is a little whimsical cake covered in fondant. It mixes up the shapes and heights and incorporates our green color. (Courtesy of theknot.com)
Option 3: I like the texture of this cake and the fact that all the tiers are square. Take off the coat of arms from the top tier and all the dendrobium orchids all around and add a monogram cake topper and maybe a little more texture in the frosting.
Now it's your turn! Tell me your favorite!
So anyways, I thought it would be nice to revisit the cake post of yore (which seemed to garner a lot of comments).
What I failed to mention in this post was my fabulous cousin, sister from another mister, and twinnie "K Now" (like your nickname lovey?). She is the most fabulous cousin a girl could have. She lives in my home state of California, and boy do I hate her for it. Anyways, she came to visit this summer for about two weeks and since she had been taking some baking and cake decorating classes, I thought I would have her do our wedding cake. This two-tier cake was going to be funfetti (duh) and go with our cupcakes, so J and I would cut our cake, and the guests would all have cupcakes.
What I hadn't taken into consideration, and came up just a week or two ago, was that our venue doesn't allow outside food (it's a liability issue with possible food contamination, and totally understandable). Bummer. So now we have to find a bakery to produce our wedding cake, but we still have the option of doing cupcakes from Georgetown Cupcake as well.
Now comes your input, which is so greatly appreciated.
What's your take on how wedding cakes should be decorated? Let's play a little My Fair Wedding: I'll give you three choices, you tell me which one you like the best (and second best) and then you wait until the wedding day to see what I've chosen :)
Option 1: This cake made my heart beat just a little faster when I saw it on modernwedding.org! Why didn't I think of this before? No frosting on the outside! I got mixed reactions from my family (split about 50/50), so let me know what you think!
Option 2: This is a little whimsical cake covered in fondant. It mixes up the shapes and heights and incorporates our green color. (Courtesy of theknot.com)
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
#31: Girl's Best Friend
True story: I threw my jewelry at an old man today.
Ok, I didn't do it on purpose. I was in line at Subway and getting my card out to pay for my lunch and whoosh!! My bracelet flew off my wrist! And into the old man!
His response? "I've never had anyone throw jewelry at me before!"
When I got to my office, I started thinking about how I could make this into a blog post (gotta have some kind of inspiration every day!). And then it hit me: I haven't talked about jewelry yet!
Just to forewarn you: this post will be chock-full of pictures! Of diamonds! Everyone loves diamonds. Girls love them well...because they're diamonds! And boys love them because they make girls happy! (Seriously, just ask J how many times I have squealed while looking at my ring...ok, it might have something to do with the whole getting married thing too...)
When I got my dress, my mom started asking what kind of jewelry I wanted to wear. And to be perfectly honest, I'm not sure I want to wear a whole lot. I'm really simple when it comes to jewelry. I mean, I wear the same studs in my ears everyday, and occasionally throw on a necklace or a bracelet, but never both at the same time.
I went to a bridal show with bridesmaid K in September. And we saw a fashion show. Where I saw my dress on the runway. I squealed with delight.
Oh, right. Jewelry. I digress. Anyways, one of the models (and a seriously sassy one, at that) was wearing a cuff bracelet that sparkled like the ocean on a cloudless sunny day. I loved it! Only problem is, I'm having trouble finding one just like it. Obviously, my budget doesn't allow for real sparkle, but hey, sometimes fake is just as good (and much easier on the ol' wallet).
I found something somewhat close, but not really, at Kohl's: Stretch bracelet
Yes, folks. That is a thing of beauty. 52.61 carats. Only a cool $153,000. Thanks to artfinding.com for that gorgeousness.
Now that I've wiped the drool off my keyboard, let's move on.
I was perusing the Kohl's website at work one day (sorry, boss) and came across this gorgeous set:
necklace
earrings
Much more affordable at about $1,400, but still wayyy out of my price range. I asked J for the money, and he said he'd send it, but I have this sinking feeling he has no intention of sending it and was just pulling my leg. Bummer. I still love him.
Now, I'm planning on wearing a cuff similar to the one that costs more than I make in, oh, six years. But much more affordable, like this one from Overstock.com:
Not quite the same, but pretty darn close for only 45 buckaroos!
Or maybe this one, also $45, from Overstock.com:
Although, I think those look more every day than wedding day (sorry, I clicked out of the window before I could note where I got these from!).
I could go a little fancier, maybe like these:
(Photo courtesy of www.steven-stone.co.uk) £4,045.00, or about $6,435 US.
Le sigh.
After writing this post, I am no closer to finding my wedding jewelry than I was when I started. The only thing I have accomplished is further deepening my love for diamonds.
What do you think? What jewelry did you wear on your wedding day? Do you love diamonds like me? Would you like to contribute to my diamond fund?
Ok, I didn't do it on purpose. I was in line at Subway and getting my card out to pay for my lunch and whoosh!! My bracelet flew off my wrist! And into the old man!
His response? "I've never had anyone throw jewelry at me before!"
When I got to my office, I started thinking about how I could make this into a blog post (gotta have some kind of inspiration every day!). And then it hit me: I haven't talked about jewelry yet!
Just to forewarn you: this post will be chock-full of pictures! Of diamonds! Everyone loves diamonds. Girls love them well...because they're diamonds! And boys love them because they make girls happy! (Seriously, just ask J how many times I have squealed while looking at my ring...ok, it might have something to do with the whole getting married thing too...)
When I got my dress, my mom started asking what kind of jewelry I wanted to wear. And to be perfectly honest, I'm not sure I want to wear a whole lot. I'm really simple when it comes to jewelry. I mean, I wear the same studs in my ears everyday, and occasionally throw on a necklace or a bracelet, but never both at the same time.
I went to a bridal show with bridesmaid K in September. And we saw a fashion show. Where I saw my dress on the runway. I squealed with delight.
Oh, right. Jewelry. I digress. Anyways, one of the models (and a seriously sassy one, at that) was wearing a cuff bracelet that sparkled like the ocean on a cloudless sunny day. I loved it! Only problem is, I'm having trouble finding one just like it. Obviously, my budget doesn't allow for real sparkle, but hey, sometimes fake is just as good (and much easier on the ol' wallet).
I found something somewhat close, but not really, at Kohl's: Stretch bracelet
It's not quite what I'm looking for, but I kinda can't afford this:
Yes, folks. That is a thing of beauty. 52.61 carats. Only a cool $153,000. Thanks to artfinding.com for that gorgeousness.
Now that I've wiped the drool off my keyboard, let's move on.
I was perusing the Kohl's website at work one day (sorry, boss) and came across this gorgeous set:
necklace
earrings
Much more affordable at about $1,400, but still wayyy out of my price range. I asked J for the money, and he said he'd send it, but I have this sinking feeling he has no intention of sending it and was just pulling my leg. Bummer. I still love him.
Now, I'm planning on wearing a cuff similar to the one that costs more than I make in, oh, six years. But much more affordable, like this one from Overstock.com:
Or maybe this one, also $45, from Overstock.com:
I'm going to pair the bracelet with a pair of studs. I'm not one for wearing dangle-y earrings or anything that stretches your earlobe to look abnormal.
I'm a fan of these:
I could go a little fancier, maybe like these:
Le sigh.
After writing this post, I am no closer to finding my wedding jewelry than I was when I started. The only thing I have accomplished is further deepening my love for diamonds.
What do you think? What jewelry did you wear on your wedding day? Do you love diamonds like me? Would you like to contribute to my diamond fund?
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
#30: Glee It Out
I have a confession. I am a closet Gleek.
Well, I guess I'm out now. I watched my first ever episode of Glee tonight, simply for the reason that I wanted to see how Gwyneth Paltrow would do. I recently saw her on the CMAs singing the title track from her new movie "Country Strong." She was amazing!!
She played a substitute teacher at McKinley in tonight's episode, and boy was she good. I'm glad the writers left it open in the storyline for her to return!
In the previews for the rest of the season, I caught a glimpse of a wedding sequence that reminded me of this:
Which reminds me of the begging and groveling I did to my dad and J to let me do this at our wedding. They first started out with "No freaking way!" and then eventually I got to "Yeah, sure go ahead." I hate it when I win. The only reason they agreed to it is because they know I would NEVER do it. I hate that they know me so well. They know I'm so traditional that I couldn't do it.
Ugh, so I'll just have to watch that YouTube video for the 58,114,601 time.
Oh and PS, I'm watching another episode of Glee right now. Le sigh.
Well, I guess I'm out now. I watched my first ever episode of Glee tonight, simply for the reason that I wanted to see how Gwyneth Paltrow would do. I recently saw her on the CMAs singing the title track from her new movie "Country Strong." She was amazing!!
She played a substitute teacher at McKinley in tonight's episode, and boy was she good. I'm glad the writers left it open in the storyline for her to return!
In the previews for the rest of the season, I caught a glimpse of a wedding sequence that reminded me of this:
Which reminds me of the begging and groveling I did to my dad and J to let me do this at our wedding. They first started out with "No freaking way!" and then eventually I got to "Yeah, sure go ahead." I hate it when I win. The only reason they agreed to it is because they know I would NEVER do it. I hate that they know me so well. They know I'm so traditional that I couldn't do it.
Ugh, so I'll just have to watch that YouTube video for the 58,114,601 time.
Oh and PS, I'm watching another episode of Glee right now. Le sigh.
Monday, November 15, 2010
#29: Work It Out
I hate working out. But I love being active. I would much rather go for a walk than jump on a treadmill. Unfortunately for me, though, this time of year doesn't bode well for walks. By the time I get home from work, it's usually 7:30pm. During the summer, it's still light outside at that time, but now it's too dark and too cold.
I have a feeling some weight is going to creep up on me this winter. I've been feeling so sluggish even though I've only gained about five pounds in the past six months or so. I've been trying to eat right, even though it's not always easy in my household of eight, and I've been drinking a lot of water. I cut out my three-plus-cans-of-Coke-a-day habit about 12 weeks ago, and since then, I've only had about six total. I definitely feel better when I'm hydrated. My major problem is stayed disciplined and motivated. I'm not exercising to lose weight, although I could stand to lose those five pounds from my thighs. I'm more exercising to get in better shape and to feel better overall. I'd also like to tone up my arms for the Big Day and tone up my tummy and thighs for the Big Vacation.
I feel like if I had a partner to work out with, I'd be more likely to get excited about it. J and I plan to work out together once we're married, but for now, we can't. He does his thing, I do mine. I've gone to the gym with friends a few times, but paying every time I go is a little expensive. I feel like I would never go if I paid for a monthly membership. Life always seems to get in the way. I'm sure I'll get more motivated once next spring rolls around and I feel more of a burden to fit in that dress!
I got on the treadmill tonight before I video chatted with J. I usually put the incline all the way up to ten, so it's more like hiking, and I put my speed on my usual fast walking pace of 3.5. I didn't last very long before I began experiencing tightening and sharp pains in my chest and I was having trouble breathing. I have a strong feeling it's related to my allergies, because I've been pretty sick for about the past two or three days. So I only got ten minutes in for today, instead of my usual 30+ minutes. Better luck next time, I guess.
What's your workout regime in the winter? Do you slack off? How do you stay motivated? Do you have a workout partner? How do you avoid eating everything in sight once the holidays come? Do you take any supplements?
I have a feeling some weight is going to creep up on me this winter. I've been feeling so sluggish even though I've only gained about five pounds in the past six months or so. I've been trying to eat right, even though it's not always easy in my household of eight, and I've been drinking a lot of water. I cut out my three-plus-cans-of-Coke-a-day habit about 12 weeks ago, and since then, I've only had about six total. I definitely feel better when I'm hydrated. My major problem is stayed disciplined and motivated. I'm not exercising to lose weight, although I could stand to lose those five pounds from my thighs. I'm more exercising to get in better shape and to feel better overall. I'd also like to tone up my arms for the Big Day and tone up my tummy and thighs for the Big Vacation.
I feel like if I had a partner to work out with, I'd be more likely to get excited about it. J and I plan to work out together once we're married, but for now, we can't. He does his thing, I do mine. I've gone to the gym with friends a few times, but paying every time I go is a little expensive. I feel like I would never go if I paid for a monthly membership. Life always seems to get in the way. I'm sure I'll get more motivated once next spring rolls around and I feel more of a burden to fit in that dress!
I got on the treadmill tonight before I video chatted with J. I usually put the incline all the way up to ten, so it's more like hiking, and I put my speed on my usual fast walking pace of 3.5. I didn't last very long before I began experiencing tightening and sharp pains in my chest and I was having trouble breathing. I have a strong feeling it's related to my allergies, because I've been pretty sick for about the past two or three days. So I only got ten minutes in for today, instead of my usual 30+ minutes. Better luck next time, I guess.
What's your workout regime in the winter? Do you slack off? How do you stay motivated? Do you have a workout partner? How do you avoid eating everything in sight once the holidays come? Do you take any supplements?
Sunday, November 14, 2010
#28: Talons
As a girl, I have a right to paint my nails whatever color I choose. I've painted them every color under the rainbow, but as an adult, I've found my favorite go-to colors. And Susan is happy to oblige.
Susan is my nail lady. I love her. To death. She's been doing my nails for years and has seen them in many different stages: acrylics, pink and whites, short, long, looking realllyyyyy bad and looking really good.
I went to see her a couple weeks ago after a long time of doing my own manicures in order to save money. I still had on my previous nail polish from about five days prior. Imagine my surprise when Susan looks at them and says, "You did a really good job!" Most women just watch tv or read a magazine when they get their nails done, but not me. Oh no, I watch Susan very closely. I've learned the tricks of the trade.
My go-to color is an OPI shade called "Midnight in Moscow." It's kind of a dark charcoal with red and gold tones mixed in. It looks black at first glance, but rest assured Mom, it's not. I currently have two bottles of it (thought I lost one and bought a replacement), and I'm pretty sure those are my fourth and fifth bottles of it. It looks so good on short, squared nails.
Last week, I used another favorite color, called "Royal Rajah Ruby." It's more of a reddish color with a golden tint.
I hate hate hate HATE having chipped nail polish. One nail chips, they all get redone or at least taken off. And they almost always chip at work. Oh, the irony. So imagine my (non)surprise when I look down Friday and see this:
So not cool.
I, of course, went home and gave them a makeover and ended up with these:
Oh, hey bling :)
I love french manicures. And it's so nice to see a not-dark color on my nails. And God must've known I needed a french manicure because I now have this in my possession:
And I of course had to try it on with the shoes and see how it all looked together :) And if I wasn't excited about our wedding to begin with, I sure am now!!
Do you have a go-to nail polish brand or color? Do you do your own nails? Do you have your nail lady that you would take with you to a deserted island like me?
Sidenote: Happy 29th birthday to Grandma Page! (Maybe a few more than 29?) Love you!!
Susan is my nail lady. I love her. To death. She's been doing my nails for years and has seen them in many different stages: acrylics, pink and whites, short, long, looking realllyyyyy bad and looking really good.
I went to see her a couple weeks ago after a long time of doing my own manicures in order to save money. I still had on my previous nail polish from about five days prior. Imagine my surprise when Susan looks at them and says, "You did a really good job!" Most women just watch tv or read a magazine when they get their nails done, but not me. Oh no, I watch Susan very closely. I've learned the tricks of the trade.
My go-to color is an OPI shade called "Midnight in Moscow." It's kind of a dark charcoal with red and gold tones mixed in. It looks black at first glance, but rest assured Mom, it's not. I currently have two bottles of it (thought I lost one and bought a replacement), and I'm pretty sure those are my fourth and fifth bottles of it. It looks so good on short, squared nails.
Last week, I used another favorite color, called "Royal Rajah Ruby." It's more of a reddish color with a golden tint.
I hate hate hate HATE having chipped nail polish. One nail chips, they all get redone or at least taken off. And they almost always chip at work. Oh, the irony. So imagine my (non)surprise when I look down Friday and see this:
I, of course, went home and gave them a makeover and ended up with these:
I love french manicures. And it's so nice to see a not-dark color on my nails. And God must've known I needed a french manicure because I now have this in my possession:
Do you have a go-to nail polish brand or color? Do you do your own nails? Do you have your nail lady that you would take with you to a deserted island like me?
Sidenote: Happy 29th birthday to Grandma Page! (Maybe a few more than 29?) Love you!!
Saturday, November 13, 2010
#27: Dealing with Loss
November 13, 2008 was a day that changed my life forever. I remember my mom coming into my room and telling me about the news story, the one that resulted in the loss of one of my best friends. I watched it over and over and over again, praying that this was just a nightmare. But the nightmare was a reality, she was gone.
Every day that passes, I only miss her more. I know that sounds so cliche, but it's so true. They say time heals all wounds, but so far, not so much. I miss laughing with her, hanging out in the backroom at work, eating cheese and say our favorite phrase, "muy queso." Man, we loved cheese. I miss shopping all the time and having dance parties in the car and playing secret spies and gift wrap baseball. I miss siding with her mom over the fact that she needed to wear more clothes and buying toilet paper at 11pm. I miss reading her sweet poems and waiting to see what newly glued together concoction would be waiting in the work locker we shared for two years. I miss turning the island around at work just too annoy the ladies that worked in the morning. I miss her laugh. I miss her smile. But most of all, I miss having a constant friend who would drop everything for anyone for any reason. I miss watching the selflessness I hoped to one day mimic.
Planning a wedding is hard when you're missing one of your bridesmaids. I wonder how it would be different, what she would think of my ideas and what kind of trouble she would try to get me in before my wedding day. And while I don't know the answers, I do know she'll be there on my wedding day, watching and asking God with her sweet smile to hold off the rain because she knows how much I love the sunshine.
Every day that passes, I only miss her more. I know that sounds so cliche, but it's so true. They say time heals all wounds, but so far, not so much. I miss laughing with her, hanging out in the backroom at work, eating cheese and say our favorite phrase, "muy queso." Man, we loved cheese. I miss shopping all the time and having dance parties in the car and playing secret spies and gift wrap baseball. I miss siding with her mom over the fact that she needed to wear more clothes and buying toilet paper at 11pm. I miss reading her sweet poems and waiting to see what newly glued together concoction would be waiting in the work locker we shared for two years. I miss turning the island around at work just too annoy the ladies that worked in the morning. I miss her laugh. I miss her smile. But most of all, I miss having a constant friend who would drop everything for anyone for any reason. I miss watching the selflessness I hoped to one day mimic.
Planning a wedding is hard when you're missing one of your bridesmaids. I wonder how it would be different, what she would think of my ideas and what kind of trouble she would try to get me in before my wedding day. And while I don't know the answers, I do know she'll be there on my wedding day, watching and asking God with her sweet smile to hold off the rain because she knows how much I love the sunshine.
Friday, November 12, 2010
#26: Out of the Mouths of Babes
I was on TheKnot.com today and came across this post from one of my fellow June 2011 brides. Enjoy!!
No person really decides before they grow up who they're going to marry. God decides it all way before, and you get to find out later who you're stuck with. -- Kristen, age 10
2. WHAT IS THE RIGHT AGE TO GET MARRIED? Twenty-three is the best age because you know the person FOREVER by then. -- Camille, age 10
3. HOW CAN A STRANGER TELL IF TWO PEOPLE ARE MARRIED? You might have to guess, based on whether they seem to be yelling at the same kids. -- Derrick, age 8
4. WHAT DO YOU THINK YOUR MOM AND DAD HAVE IN COMMON? Both don't want any more kids. -- Lori, age 8
5. WHAT DO MOST PEOPLE DO ON A DATE? Dates are for having fun, and people should use them to get to know each other. Even boys have something to say if you listen long enough. -- Lynnette, age 8 (isn't she a treasure)
On the first date, they just tell each other lies and that usually gets them interested enough to go for a second date. -- Martin, age 10
6. WHAT WOULD YOU DO ON A FIRST DATE THAT WAS TURNING SOUR? I'd run home and play dead. The next day I would call all the newspapers and make sure they wrote about me in all the dead columns. -- Craig, age 9
7. WHEN IS IT OKAY TO KISS SOMEONE? When they're rich. -- Pam, age 7
The law says you have to be eighteen, so I wouldn't want to mess with that. - - Curt, age 7
The rule goes like this: If you kiss someone, then you should marry them and have kids with them. It's the right thing to do. -- Howard, age 8
8. IS IT BETTER TO BE SINGLE OR MARRIED? It's better for girls to be single but not for boys. Boys need someone to clean up after them. -- Anita, age 9 (bless you child)
9. HOW WOULD THE WORLD BE DIFFERENT IF PEOPLE DIDN'T GET MARRIED? There sure would be a lot of kids to explain, wouldn't there? -- Kelvin, age 8
And the #1 Favorite is........ HOW WOULD YOU MAKE A MARRIAGE WORK? Tell your wife that she looks pretty, even if she looks like a dump truck. -- Ricky, age 10 (Pay attention this one, J!)
Which one is YOUR favorite?
1. HOW DO YOU DECIDE WHOM TO MARRY? (Answers by kids. Note the ages)
You got to find somebody who likes the same stuff. Like, if you like sports, she should like it that you like sports and she should keep the chips and dip coming. -- Alan, age 10
No person really decides before they grow up who they're going to marry. God decides it all way before, and you get to find out later who you're stuck with. -- Kristen, age 10
2. WHAT IS THE RIGHT AGE TO GET MARRIED? Twenty-three is the best age because you know the person FOREVER by then. -- Camille, age 10
3. HOW CAN A STRANGER TELL IF TWO PEOPLE ARE MARRIED? You might have to guess, based on whether they seem to be yelling at the same kids. -- Derrick, age 8
4. WHAT DO YOU THINK YOUR MOM AND DAD HAVE IN COMMON? Both don't want any more kids. -- Lori, age 8
5. WHAT DO MOST PEOPLE DO ON A DATE? Dates are for having fun, and people should use them to get to know each other. Even boys have something to say if you listen long enough. -- Lynnette, age 8 (isn't she a treasure)
On the first date, they just tell each other lies and that usually gets them interested enough to go for a second date. -- Martin, age 10
6. WHAT WOULD YOU DO ON A FIRST DATE THAT WAS TURNING SOUR? I'd run home and play dead. The next day I would call all the newspapers and make sure they wrote about me in all the dead columns. -- Craig, age 9
7. WHEN IS IT OKAY TO KISS SOMEONE? When they're rich. -- Pam, age 7
The law says you have to be eighteen, so I wouldn't want to mess with that. - - Curt, age 7
The rule goes like this: If you kiss someone, then you should marry them and have kids with them. It's the right thing to do. -- Howard, age 8
8. IS IT BETTER TO BE SINGLE OR MARRIED? It's better for girls to be single but not for boys. Boys need someone to clean up after them. -- Anita, age 9 (bless you child)
9. HOW WOULD THE WORLD BE DIFFERENT IF PEOPLE DIDN'T GET MARRIED? There sure would be a lot of kids to explain, wouldn't there? -- Kelvin, age 8
And the #1 Favorite is........ HOW WOULD YOU MAKE A MARRIAGE WORK? Tell your wife that she looks pretty, even if she looks like a dump truck. -- Ricky, age 10 (Pay attention this one, J!)
Which one is YOUR favorite?
Thursday, November 11, 2010
#25: Bridal Magazines Anyone?
If I had a nickel for every bridal magazine I currently own, I'd have...about a buck. Yay for being rich!
I have so many bridal magazines. Most of them are Brides magazine. I went to a bridal show back in January and as a bride, I had to register in order to enter the bazaar (or should I say bizarre? But that's another story altogether). Included in my registry was a years' subscription to Brides magazine. I didn't realize this until I had received my fourth magazine and it finally dawned on me where they came from (there goes my generous family/friend idea).
I usually spend about 45 minutes going through each magazine and then I close it up. I always find good ideas, but I never thought to rip the pages out and just throw away the rest. Instead, they sit in a pile on my desk (good thing I have a big desk, otherwise they'd take over!!). That is, until today. I decided to go through my stack and downsize a little.
After three hours, this is what I got rid of:
(Excuse the ugly carpet and the 1/100th of my shoe collection showing)
And this is what I decided to keep (it's the collector's edition!!):
I have about 30 pages ripped out, including good dance music, bouquets, gift ideas, skin and beauty regimens and good ways to relax.
Oh, and the gratuitous wedding gown picture (yes, I know I already have mine, and no, there's no buyer's remorse here):
I have so many bridal magazines. Most of them are Brides magazine. I went to a bridal show back in January and as a bride, I had to register in order to enter the bazaar (or should I say bizarre? But that's another story altogether). Included in my registry was a years' subscription to Brides magazine. I didn't realize this until I had received my fourth magazine and it finally dawned on me where they came from (there goes my generous family/friend idea).
I usually spend about 45 minutes going through each magazine and then I close it up. I always find good ideas, but I never thought to rip the pages out and just throw away the rest. Instead, they sit in a pile on my desk (good thing I have a big desk, otherwise they'd take over!!). That is, until today. I decided to go through my stack and downsize a little.
After three hours, this is what I got rid of:
And this is what I decided to keep (it's the collector's edition!!):
I have about 30 pages ripped out, including good dance music, bouquets, gift ideas, skin and beauty regimens and good ways to relax.
Oh, and the gratuitous wedding gown picture (yes, I know I already have mine, and no, there's no buyer's remorse here):
Gorgeous!! And here's my favorite hairstyle (Ash, you think you can handle this one?):
Have you been trying to purge things you don't need anymore? Does anyone else have the urge to de-clutter and reorganize like me? Do you like my chosen hairstyle? :)
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
#24: Escort Cards vs. Place Cards
Escort cards and place cards. Did you know there was a difference? Thanks to David Tutera, my gay-husband (ok I just really really like him) and star/host/wedding planner extraordinaire of WE tv's My Fair Wedding, I now know there is indeed a difference.
Escort cards are usually placed on a large table, in alphabetical order by last name. This card just contains the guest's name and their table number/name.
Place cards are actually on the tables. They dictate where that guest is going to sit. This commonly only contains the guest's name and is placed on top of their place setting.
There's your lesson for the day. Be honest, did you know there was a difference?
For our wedding, we are planning on doing a large poster with table names and guests' names, rather than escort cards. I'm pretty sure we'll be doing place cards as well.
Side note: We're getting close to submitting all our information/pictures to our photographer, who is making and designing our custom wedding website! Can't wait to show you all the final product!!
Escort cards are usually placed on a large table, in alphabetical order by last name. This card just contains the guest's name and their table number/name.
Place cards are actually on the tables. They dictate where that guest is going to sit. This commonly only contains the guest's name and is placed on top of their place setting.
There's your lesson for the day. Be honest, did you know there was a difference?
For our wedding, we are planning on doing a large poster with table names and guests' names, rather than escort cards. I'm pretty sure we'll be doing place cards as well.
Side note: We're getting close to submitting all our information/pictures to our photographer, who is making and designing our custom wedding website! Can't wait to show you all the final product!!
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
#23: Monthiversary
In the first year we dated, J and I would always celebrate our monthiversary. Yes, that IS a word.
Well, folks, today is another one. We have been together 42 months today. That's a lot of months. 7 half-years. 3.5 full years. 183 weeks. 1,281 days. Roughly 30,744 hours.
So today I've decided to come up with 42 reasons why I love J (in no specific order):
1. He makes me laugh more than anyone I know
2. He opens me up to new things
3. He has the best laugh
4. He's very hygienic (very important to me)
5. I love his beard
6. He makes amazing peanut butter cookies
7. He's taller than me
8. He smells good
9. He has good taste in clothes
10. He has good taste in clothes for me
11. He likes to shop
12. He works at Starbucks (holla free drinks!)
13. He tries to get along with everybody
14. He loves his family
15. He loves MY family
16. He's compassionate
17. He's strong
18. He likes to hold my hand
19. He's always encouraging me
20. Looks for the silver lining
21. He takes care of himself and his diabetes
22. He has no clue how much #21 means to me
23. He'll watch chick flicks with me without complaining
24. He's ok with my obsession with Steve Nash
25. He buys me flowers for no reason
26. He always makes an effort to see me, even if it's inconvenient timing for him
27. He's an amazingly talented artist
28. He's humble about #27
29. He loves God
30. He likes beer
31. He warms my hands when they're cold (which is pretty often)
32. He's handy with technology (I can always count on him to fix something for me)
33. He does dishes
34. He cooks! And it's edible! And delicious!
35. He buys me little things like gum and candy and I think that's sweet
36. He gives me his Starbucks coupons
37. He holds my hand when he drives
38. He always greets me with a kiss
39. He always says I love you, at least once, but usually more, in every conversation
40. He loves me unconditionally
41. He makes me feel safe
42. He asked me to marry him and bought me a nice rock (haha a girl's gotta be superficial sometimes!)
So there you go! Hope you like my list, hunny :)
Well, folks, today is another one. We have been together 42 months today. That's a lot of months. 7 half-years. 3.5 full years. 183 weeks. 1,281 days. Roughly 30,744 hours.
So today I've decided to come up with 42 reasons why I love J (in no specific order):
1. He makes me laugh more than anyone I know
2. He opens me up to new things
3. He has the best laugh
4. He's very hygienic (very important to me)
5. I love his beard
6. He makes amazing peanut butter cookies
7. He's taller than me
8. He smells good
9. He has good taste in clothes
10. He has good taste in clothes for me
11. He likes to shop
12. He works at Starbucks (holla free drinks!)
13. He tries to get along with everybody
14. He loves his family
15. He loves MY family
16. He's compassionate
17. He's strong
18. He likes to hold my hand
19. He's always encouraging me
20. Looks for the silver lining
21. He takes care of himself and his diabetes
22. He has no clue how much #21 means to me
23. He'll watch chick flicks with me without complaining
24. He's ok with my obsession with Steve Nash
25. He buys me flowers for no reason
26. He always makes an effort to see me, even if it's inconvenient timing for him
27. He's an amazingly talented artist
28. He's humble about #27
29. He loves God
30. He likes beer
31. He warms my hands when they're cold (which is pretty often)
32. He's handy with technology (I can always count on him to fix something for me)
33. He does dishes
34. He cooks! And it's edible! And delicious!
35. He buys me little things like gum and candy and I think that's sweet
36. He gives me his Starbucks coupons
37. He holds my hand when he drives
38. He always greets me with a kiss
39. He always says I love you, at least once, but usually more, in every conversation
40. He loves me unconditionally
41. He makes me feel safe
42. He asked me to marry him and bought me a nice rock (haha a girl's gotta be superficial sometimes!)
So there you go! Hope you like my list, hunny :)
Monday, November 8, 2010
#22: Fall is Back
I'm not a fan of winter. Or really fall, for that matter. I don't do snow and I don't do cold.
Listen, and listen good: I am a San Diego girl. I will settle for nothing less, even if that means whining my way through November, December, January, February, and most of March.
The only time snow is acceptable is when it snows so hard I get out of work (This doesn't happen very often. You try having a boss from the Midwest). Or if it coats everything but the roads. Then again, in Northern Virginia, people forget how to drive if they so much as see one little teeny, tiny snowflake.
What brought on this mini-rant? I had to put away my summer clothes and begrudgingly pull out my sweaters. Don't get me wrong, I love sweaters and fall fashion, coats, tights, and boots. I just don't like having to wear them because I'm cold.
This is why I'm a June bride. I love summer, I live for summer. I love bikinis and the beach, bay breezes (the drink, sorry Dad), banana boat tanning oil, flip flops, fun dresses, driving with the windows down, snow cones, bomb pops, hanging out at the pool all day long and jumping up the second I hear the ice cream man pull into the parking lot.
What's your favorite month and why? (Flashback to elementary school or what? Luckily, you don't have to draw a picture of you in your favorite month this time)
Listen, and listen good: I am a San Diego girl. I will settle for nothing less, even if that means whining my way through November, December, January, February, and most of March.
The only time snow is acceptable is when it snows so hard I get out of work (This doesn't happen very often. You try having a boss from the Midwest). Or if it coats everything but the roads. Then again, in Northern Virginia, people forget how to drive if they so much as see one little teeny, tiny snowflake.
What brought on this mini-rant? I had to put away my summer clothes and begrudgingly pull out my sweaters. Don't get me wrong, I love sweaters and fall fashion, coats, tights, and boots. I just don't like having to wear them because I'm cold.
This is why I'm a June bride. I love summer, I live for summer. I love bikinis and the beach, bay breezes (the drink, sorry Dad), banana boat tanning oil, flip flops, fun dresses, driving with the windows down, snow cones, bomb pops, hanging out at the pool all day long and jumping up the second I hear the ice cream man pull into the parking lot.
What's your favorite month and why? (Flashback to elementary school or what? Luckily, you don't have to draw a picture of you in your favorite month this time)
Sunday, November 7, 2010
#21: Sunday Funday
Well, folks, it's another Sunday, which means another episode of Bridezillas was on tonight. And boy was it a doozy. It was a special TWO HOUR LONG episode. I was in heaven. This episode followed three "special" brides. They were definitely the most outlandish I've seen all season.
One of them made her fiance sign a prenup. This bride also wore SIX dresses on her wedding day. I'm sorry, but that is beyond overkill. I can't even imagine changing out of my dress into one other dress, let alone five other dresses. I feel that a wedding dress should be special, not part of a fashion show (although I do love a good fashion show every now and then). The sad part was that every single one of those six dresses looked identical to me. Strapless ballgown with pickups and a lot of embellishment in the worst kind (to me): sparkles. I don't do sparkles. Really.
Another bride had a little hair dilemma (my phrase, not hers. I'm actually pretty sure she was in love with her hair). My problem with it? She had TWO huge flowers in it. And I'm not talking small flowers either. These were two huge honkin' flowers, one on either side of her little messy "updo" (I use that phrase lightly...I'm not even sure what kind of style it was).
And the third bride was quite a little spitfire. I'm not even sure what her issue was. The moment I was flabbergasted by was actually the day of the wedding. She couldn't find her (ahem) undergarments to wear under her dress, and called her groom to find them. Then it shot to a little interview in the hotel hallway where she admitted she spent $50 on one pair of undies. WHAT?! And they never did find them.
These three brides make me (and should make my family) grateful that I am somewhat normal. No prenup (although J and I joke about it sometimes), no ugly hairstyles (thanks to my twinnie Ash), and no $50 pair of undies (still shocked about that one).
And with that, I leave you with a little Bridezilla clip. Enjoy!
PS: Happy Birthday Momma!!
One of them made her fiance sign a prenup. This bride also wore SIX dresses on her wedding day. I'm sorry, but that is beyond overkill. I can't even imagine changing out of my dress into one other dress, let alone five other dresses. I feel that a wedding dress should be special, not part of a fashion show (although I do love a good fashion show every now and then). The sad part was that every single one of those six dresses looked identical to me. Strapless ballgown with pickups and a lot of embellishment in the worst kind (to me): sparkles. I don't do sparkles. Really.
Another bride had a little hair dilemma (my phrase, not hers. I'm actually pretty sure she was in love with her hair). My problem with it? She had TWO huge flowers in it. And I'm not talking small flowers either. These were two huge honkin' flowers, one on either side of her little messy "updo" (I use that phrase lightly...I'm not even sure what kind of style it was).
And the third bride was quite a little spitfire. I'm not even sure what her issue was. The moment I was flabbergasted by was actually the day of the wedding. She couldn't find her (ahem) undergarments to wear under her dress, and called her groom to find them. Then it shot to a little interview in the hotel hallway where she admitted she spent $50 on one pair of undies. WHAT?! And they never did find them.
These three brides make me (and should make my family) grateful that I am somewhat normal. No prenup (although J and I joke about it sometimes), no ugly hairstyles (thanks to my twinnie Ash), and no $50 pair of undies (still shocked about that one).
And with that, I leave you with a little Bridezilla clip. Enjoy!
PS: Happy Birthday Momma!!
Saturday, November 6, 2010
#20: One More Hour
In honor of "fall back" tonight, I'd like to give you 10 things I could do with an extra hour:
1. Sleep
2. Pre-write a blog post so it can actually be posted at a decent hour (psshhh, it'll never happen)
3. Catch up on one of my shows
4. Paint my nails
5. Vacuum my room
6. Have a dance party
7. Do a power hour
8. Read my Real Simple magazine
9. Go through my clothes and make a donation pile
10. Organize and write down what I've gotten everyone for Christmas so far
I do have to say, I came up with quite a few genius ideas (#7 is not one of them). Since I have more than one hour before I'm heading to bed, I'll probably do a combo of 4, 6, 9 and 10.
Serious question: do YOU have dance parties by yourself? Don't be ashamed.
***EDIT: What I actually did tonight:
1. Changed into my yoga pants (don't let that statement fool you into thinking I do yoga. It just sounds cooler than "these cool pants that you're supposed to exercise in, but I just wear them because the waistband doesn't create a muffin top")
2. Caught up on Private Practice (see #3 above)
3. Ate a piece of dutch apple pie (pretty sure my sister-in-law wasn't planning on eating the whole pie herself. you're welcome)
4. Had hot chocolate in my thermos because I couldn't find a mug big enough to house two packets of Swiss Miss with marshamallows. I always use two packets. (Hence why the box I bought last Saturday night is now gone)
5. Blog stalked other people, including http://kendieveryday.blogspot.com/ (Warning: If you click on that link, you will instantly become self-conscious of your every day outfits and lack of style, even if you think you're stylish)
6. Killed a bug (ok, that was before I posted the original tonight...but I'm really proud of killing one of those jumping crickets. Too bad I had to use my Washingtonian Bride&Groom Magazine. Little bugger never saw the Tiffany's ad coming)
7. Instead of a dance party, I actually did karaoke with Jason Aldean (his new CD is uh-may-zing)
8. Day(night?)dreamt about this chair I sat in at Pottery Barn today. I felt like I died and went to heaven when I sat in it. Then wondered if it's a sign that I got a 10% coupon from Pottery Barn in the mail when I got home...
9. Did some online Christmas shopping
1. Sleep
2. Pre-write a blog post so it can actually be posted at a decent hour (psshhh, it'll never happen)
3. Catch up on one of my shows
4. Paint my nails
5. Vacuum my room
6. Have a dance party
7. Do a power hour
8. Read my Real Simple magazine
9. Go through my clothes and make a donation pile
10. Organize and write down what I've gotten everyone for Christmas so far
I do have to say, I came up with quite a few genius ideas (#7 is not one of them). Since I have more than one hour before I'm heading to bed, I'll probably do a combo of 4, 6, 9 and 10.
Serious question: do YOU have dance parties by yourself? Don't be ashamed.
***EDIT: What I actually did tonight:
1. Changed into my yoga pants (don't let that statement fool you into thinking I do yoga. It just sounds cooler than "these cool pants that you're supposed to exercise in, but I just wear them because the waistband doesn't create a muffin top")
2. Caught up on Private Practice (see #3 above)
3. Ate a piece of dutch apple pie (pretty sure my sister-in-law wasn't planning on eating the whole pie herself. you're welcome)
4. Had hot chocolate in my thermos because I couldn't find a mug big enough to house two packets of Swiss Miss with marshamallows. I always use two packets. (Hence why the box I bought last Saturday night is now gone)
5. Blog stalked other people, including http://kendieveryday.blogspot.com/ (Warning: If you click on that link, you will instantly become self-conscious of your every day outfits and lack of style, even if you think you're stylish)
6. Killed a bug (ok, that was before I posted the original tonight...but I'm really proud of killing one of those jumping crickets. Too bad I had to use my Washingtonian Bride&Groom Magazine. Little bugger never saw the Tiffany's ad coming)
7. Instead of a dance party, I actually did karaoke with Jason Aldean (his new CD is uh-may-zing)
8. Day(night?)dreamt about this chair I sat in at Pottery Barn today. I felt like I died and went to heaven when I sat in it. Then wondered if it's a sign that I got a 10% coupon from Pottery Barn in the mail when I got home...
9. Did some online Christmas shopping
Friday, November 5, 2010
#19: Where, ware, wear
Now that you've gotten introduced to our venue and the overall scheme of our wedding, we should get into my favorite aspect of life: clothes! Of course I can't reveal anything about my dress except for what I already revealed here. So I'll tell you about what everyone else is wearing!
Boys: I always envisioned the guys being in black tuxes, with gel in their hair, looking all suave and debonair. Unfortunately, J did not have the same vision. So we've scaled back a little on the men's attire (I also just realize I've used the words "boys," "guys" and "men" in this paragraph thus far. They grow up right before your eyes, I tell you). Since our color scheme doesn't include any black, the tux idea is completely out. Then I thought all the guys would look super dapper in khaki colored suits with brown dress shoes. Well, scratch that idea too, because I haven't found a place that rents suits yet!
So here's the guys breakdown:
J - khaki suit (Purchasing this one. He has a black suit, but needs something a little lighter for the summer, so it'll be a good investment). J will actually have a wardrobe change between the ceremony and reception (yeah...I don't even get one). He will be changing from his suit into an outfit that matches the rest of the groomsmen.
Rest of the guys - khaki pants (doesn't matter what shade, we just asked for no pleats...yes, this is more important than you think), white button down (every guy owns one, right?) and we asked them to purchase a pair of Tom's shoes. J has a pair of Tom's and loves them, and since the guys are providing the rest of the outfit basically from their own closet, we don't really have a problem with the $60 price tag on these shoes (especially since you're technically paying for two pairs of shoes). And luckily, none of the guys had a problem with doing this either. J is going to provide the guys with chocolate brown suspenders and my mom and I have the task of finding coordinating, but not matching ties for all the guys. Good thing we're experienced tie-buyers.
The best man will also be wearing a jacket with his outfit, to distinguish him from the rest of the guys.
Ladies - When I told my bridesmaids my idea for their dresses, I was met with "you are the best bride," "are you serious?!" and "sweet." I don't want robot bridesmaids, so the idea of having them be matchy-matchy is not appealing to me. They're also all different body types, ranging from 5 foot nothing to 5'9" and varying skin and hair colors. I decided to let my girls pick their dresses from David's Bridal. I gave them a few criteria:
1. A short length (my MOH (sister) will have a floor length gown, to distinguish her from the rest))
2. One of five colors (all shades of brown...and coincidentally all have to do with food...)
3. Minimal shininess (ie, no silk fabrics) because I'm really not a fan of bling and sparkles
They will all be wearing silver shoes and I haven't figured out jewelry or anything yet. My girls will be looking fly though, that's for sure.
When we put up our wedding website (via Peter Davis Photography), you will see just how attractive our wedding party is. No lie. Modeling agencies will be knocking down our door.
Boys: I always envisioned the guys being in black tuxes, with gel in their hair, looking all suave and debonair. Unfortunately, J did not have the same vision. So we've scaled back a little on the men's attire (I also just realize I've used the words "boys," "guys" and "men" in this paragraph thus far. They grow up right before your eyes, I tell you). Since our color scheme doesn't include any black, the tux idea is completely out. Then I thought all the guys would look super dapper in khaki colored suits with brown dress shoes. Well, scratch that idea too, because I haven't found a place that rents suits yet!
So here's the guys breakdown:
J - khaki suit (Purchasing this one. He has a black suit, but needs something a little lighter for the summer, so it'll be a good investment). J will actually have a wardrobe change between the ceremony and reception (yeah...I don't even get one). He will be changing from his suit into an outfit that matches the rest of the groomsmen.
Rest of the guys - khaki pants (doesn't matter what shade, we just asked for no pleats...yes, this is more important than you think), white button down (every guy owns one, right?) and we asked them to purchase a pair of Tom's shoes. J has a pair of Tom's and loves them, and since the guys are providing the rest of the outfit basically from their own closet, we don't really have a problem with the $60 price tag on these shoes (especially since you're technically paying for two pairs of shoes). And luckily, none of the guys had a problem with doing this either. J is going to provide the guys with chocolate brown suspenders and my mom and I have the task of finding coordinating, but not matching ties for all the guys. Good thing we're experienced tie-buyers.
The best man will also be wearing a jacket with his outfit, to distinguish him from the rest of the guys.
Ladies - When I told my bridesmaids my idea for their dresses, I was met with "you are the best bride," "are you serious?!" and "sweet." I don't want robot bridesmaids, so the idea of having them be matchy-matchy is not appealing to me. They're also all different body types, ranging from 5 foot nothing to 5'9" and varying skin and hair colors. I decided to let my girls pick their dresses from David's Bridal. I gave them a few criteria:
1. A short length (my MOH (sister) will have a floor length gown, to distinguish her from the rest))
2. One of five colors (all shades of brown...and coincidentally all have to do with food...)
3. Minimal shininess (ie, no silk fabrics) because I'm really not a fan of bling and sparkles
They will all be wearing silver shoes and I haven't figured out jewelry or anything yet. My girls will be looking fly though, that's for sure.
When we put up our wedding website (via Peter Davis Photography), you will see just how attractive our wedding party is. No lie. Modeling agencies will be knocking down our door.
#18: Maids of the Bride
**I forgot to post this yesterday! So today you will get TWO posts, you lucky ducks you :)
My girls are everything to me. Without them, I would not be the woman I am today. They have seen me all dressed up, without makeup on, in dresses, in sweats, perfect skin, teenage acne, with braces (omg and headgear too, how awful), through good times and through some of the darkest times in my life. I have the most amazing friends.
I wanted have 10 bridesmaids, but for a wedding of only 125 max, 10 is a little overkill. So J and I agreed on six bridesmaids and six groomsmen. Picking my bridesmaids was such a hard decision and I didn't come by it lightly. I picked the girls I had known the longest (two family members), and girls who had the biggest impact in shaping me and in shaping my relationship with J. That's not to say the girls I didn't pick didn't have an impact on me. I knew that the girls I didn't pick would understand, but would also be able and willing to help in other aspects of our wedding.
Each of my girls will get their own post later, but I just wanted to let them all know I love them very much! I wouldn't be where I am today without you :))
My girls are everything to me. Without them, I would not be the woman I am today. They have seen me all dressed up, without makeup on, in dresses, in sweats, perfect skin, teenage acne, with braces (omg and headgear too, how awful), through good times and through some of the darkest times in my life. I have the most amazing friends.
I wanted have 10 bridesmaids, but for a wedding of only 125 max, 10 is a little overkill. So J and I agreed on six bridesmaids and six groomsmen. Picking my bridesmaids was such a hard decision and I didn't come by it lightly. I picked the girls I had known the longest (two family members), and girls who had the biggest impact in shaping me and in shaping my relationship with J. That's not to say the girls I didn't pick didn't have an impact on me. I knew that the girls I didn't pick would understand, but would also be able and willing to help in other aspects of our wedding.
Each of my girls will get their own post later, but I just wanted to let them all know I love them very much! I wouldn't be where I am today without you :))
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
#17: Linkage
Ok, day 17 and I've hit the first day I don't feel like writing anything. So...I'm going to give you homework. Ok, ok...just some links to look at :)
This is my dream dessert set-up. We might not get it exact, but we'll get something just as worthy of your oos and ahhs.
I love the moss letters and the natural feel of this wedding. LOVE it. I love it so much, here's another link from it. Scroll down to the last picture. Love the granny smith apples as the base! So creative.
And this wedding goes along with the all-white theme I mentioned in the flower post. So classic and elegant.
So there you go. A little glimpse into what I love about weddings.
Ok, I'm done now.
What do you think of what I showed you?
This is my dream dessert set-up. We might not get it exact, but we'll get something just as worthy of your oos and ahhs.
I love the moss letters and the natural feel of this wedding. LOVE it. I love it so much, here's another link from it. Scroll down to the last picture. Love the granny smith apples as the base! So creative.
And this wedding goes along with the all-white theme I mentioned in the flower post. So classic and elegant.
So there you go. A little glimpse into what I love about weddings.
Ok, I'm done now.
What do you think of what I showed you?
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