Cheerful Chatter

Fall Family Fun

2011-11-13T21:14:00.000-05:00

This weekend S2H and I made the most of the long weekend and headed to the Triangle Area to visit Giselle and Isaac (S2H's awesome nephew who lives in NC). Our first stop was UNC for shopping, college Mexican, and some Carolina brews! We only got 24 hours in with Giselle but it was the best 24 hours!

{my beautiful sis treated me to a personal styling afternoon and lots of snuggling!}

{and S2H got his own treat at Carolina Brewery}

On Saturday we headed to Raleigh to hang out with Isaac. As luck would have it the Pittsburg Penguins were in town playing the Carolina Hurricanes. So we grabbed Isaac and headed to the game. We had an awesome dinner at Porters beforehand. They somehow magically combined artichokes and queso. Once got to the arena we were surprised with awesome seats. The game was really exciting. Lots of action around the goal and some hilarious arena antics. The Hurricanes have dancers in every corner and a crowd energizer named Big Mike. They have even adopted the home town hero Rick Flare's "woooooo" as their goal cheer. To sum it up it was a great night and an awesome treat to hang out with Isaac.

{sporting yellow and black for the Pens!}

{Isaac, a happy Canes fan (5-3)!}

{last but certainly not least, Big Mike & Stormy, the ice hog}

Best Summer Meal Ever...minus the side effects

2011-08-03T09:00:00.000-04:00

S2H and I kicked off the work week on the right foot with a healthy dinner...grilled salmon with spicy peach salsa. Usually, I am disappointed by at-home salmon recipes...too fishy, lacking flavor, you get the drift. Not too mention I am a new seafood eater and the potential smell makes me squirm. But everywhere I turn magazines and blogs are highlighting the benefits of eating salmon on a weekly basis. So with new found resolve I decided it was time to go for it, especially after reading that it helps improve your skin-hello wedding glow! I didn't have to look far for an appetizing recipe, to the rescue, Nina! This recipe is from Cooking Light. I prepped my salmon for the grill pan, Nina's way, with kosher salt, pepper, fresh lemon juice, and a couple cloves of minced garlic. I made the salsa exactly like the Cooking Light recipe, but next time I would add another peach. S2H and I were fighting over the peach chunks to create the perfect bite! Here is our final product, on a bed of arugula (for a peppery bite) with a side of lemon green beans with toasted almonds. This meal was awesome!! Filling but in the healthiest of ways...and room for a 70 calorie Dove ice cream bar :).

Now this meal would have been absolute perfection if I hadn't made a huge mistake... I cut the jalapeno bare handed! And holy moly...this pepper was killer. I rinse my hands about a dozen times while cooking, but no luck...I got a serious jalapeno burn! I stuck my hand in cold water - no relief. Hand INSIDE bag of frozen peas...a bit of relief. Fresh lime juice...a few more temporary seconds of relief. And after Googling and finding this, I soaked my hand in milk. But we only had skim milk, and the recommendations said the more milk fat the better, sour cream the best! No sour cream, fat free creamer...I was dying! Buried in the back of the fridge was a small carton of butter milk...with a July expiration date. S2H raised his eye brow at me, but I was a woman in pain. In went the hand into weeks old buttermilk. To top it off I smeared low fat cream cheese all over. Ahhh...soooo gross, but so much better. Picture proof and a warning, beware of the burning peppers!

{wine helps too ;). did i mention this post was created a la one hand?!}

Watermelon - Stawberry-Lemon Booze Coolers

2011-07-31T21:02:00.000-04:00

I had some watermelon that was on the brink last week, so I cut it up and froze it for later. And thank goodness I did, because S2H came up with an amazing booze-y creation to celebrate a great weekend with friends and our 3 year dating anniversary. Here it goes...

Serving Size: 2

-2 cups of frozen watermelon chunks

-Juice of 2 lemons

-1/4 cup of simple syrup

-1/2 cup of vodka

-splash of strawberry flavored vodka

-1/2 cup of club soda (we used sodium free)

Blend the watermelon chunks with lemon juice. Slowly add simple syrup. Once everything is blended add the vodka(s). Divide club soda among two iced filled glasses and pour watermelon mix to the brim! Garnish with a fresh lemon or strawberry, enjoy!

frizz, photo shoot, & fun

2011-07-27T07:00:00.000-04:00

S2H and I were lucky enough to snag a Sunday afternoon with Lindsay Alexander last month for our official engagement photos! Luck would have it that Lindsay was in DC to capture the most amazing wedding of my work sister, Erin. Lindsay is also going to capture our day and was sweet enough to spend some extra time in DC for an engagement photo session. This was a great opportunity to get comfortable with each other and capture some images in the place where S2H and I met. The day was great for the "lighting" but not so great for my hair...hello frizz city! It was a hot and humid DC morning with a side of drizzle. Lindsay was a trooper and I tried not to let my self conciousness get the best of me! Here are some of my favorites. But be sure to check out Lindsay's blog to see us and all her amazing work!

Hair Cult

2011-07-25T10:00:00.001-04:00

I have always been very particular about my hair. Nina and I can have full page g-chat conversations about our hair routine, the current humidity level and how to combat it, and the newest product featured on the Today Show or our favorite blog. It may seem silly to some but it is more about a comfort thing than anything else. My hair is kind of like my security blanket, something I think I have control over...as opposed to my hips! With the upcoming wedding I went into hair obsession over-drive! And to top it off, I met Ruby. Ruby is the hair goddess at Frizzles, my new salon! Ruby has me on a "hair plan" and I am sharing this plan with everyone I know. I have been on the hair plan for about 5 months and I am a believer! The plan is easy, actually less work...I have stopped washing my hair! Well at least I have stopped washing my hair every day. I now wash my hair every 3 days. Crazy right?! But it makes a HUGE difference. My hair is fuller, vibrant, and more manageable. I have followed this little routine through spring and summer - workouts and workout slumps. Don't judge - sweat is good for your hair!

Routine:
Day 1: Wash and blowout
Day 2: Little baby corn starch to absorb oils, pin hair back if it is looking a little limp
Day 3: More baby corn starch, some up-some down, pony tail or curl hair
Day 4: Wash and blowout - start all over!

Tools of the Trade:
Baby corn starch - helps absorb oils and comes scented to freshen things up
Natural Bristle Brush - natural bristles help distribute oils, brush every night
Moroccoan Oil - use on damp hair to protect hair from styling heat
Volumizing Spray - helps make the blowout last longer
Dry Shampoo - helps add texture for pony tails and curls

Tips:
Only shampoo the crown of your head, that's where all the oil is. Only conditioner your ends, that's the area lacking moisture. If you think about it this is how they wash your hair at the salon! If you are going to splurge go for the good shampoo. Your hair naturally produces the best conditioner. Stick with the hair plan! It takes about two weeks to even out your "oil production." Before you know it you will be rocking 3-day old hair - to work and to party. It's amazing!

*photo

Love, Family, & Friends

2011-07-24T08:15:00.001-04:00

Ever since S2H and I got engaged we have been showered with love, kindness, and generosity. We have had so much fun celebrating with our family and friends. My sweet friends, Erin and Erin, officially kicked off the pre-wedding festivities with an engagement party. All our family and friends joined us in Arlington, VA for drinks, yummy food, and the most amazing cupcakes. This party also marked the first meeting of our parents! And it was a huge success! Erin and Erin handled every detail to perfection and our parents and siblings had an amazing time. My dad came up from Charlotte, Giselle from UNC, S2H's family caravan-ed from PA, my mom's family from NY, and even sweet Nina came from the cornfields!! We are lucky kids! It was truly a special moment full of all the important things, family, friends, and laughter!

{hosts and work sisters, Erin & Erin. my person, nina! cupcakes courtesy of mama flo and kollene!}

{clockwise: S2H's fam, giselle & my dad, giselle, my mom's fam}

The fun continued this month with my first bridal shower hosted by my soon to be in-loves! S2H's mom, sister (Erin), and sister-in-law (Jen) gave me the most beautiful shower! These women amaze me with their generosity, talent, and love for family. I could go on and on about all the special details they put into the shower - mason jars full of flowers, silverware tied with ribbon in our wedding colors, chocolate fondue, DELICIOUS food, and homemade hand decorated mini cakes for all the guests! There were games too! I totally bombed on the "question game" and had to chew 11 pieces of Bubbalicious gum! :) So we had full bellies and lots of giggles. I had so much fun celebrating with everyone and felt truly loved. The day was so special. It took me a few days to process how wonderful everything was. I was so spoiled and will be forever grateful for this bright spot and happy memory during all the wedding planning craziness!

{even S2H's dad helped out- check out that beautiful lawn & tent. beautiful cakes by Jen! the best food ever! S2H's mom knows i have a thing for mason jars.}

{me & the girls! so blessed to have these women in my life!}

Year 26 Bucket List

2011-07-22T11:25:00.000-04:00

The summer has been flying by at lightening speed. In between wedding festivities I celebrated my 26th birthday. It's official, I am now closer to 30 than 20...scary. This year S2H and I kept the birthday weekend very low key. We drove out to the Shenandoah Valley and had an amazing 5 mile hike, complete with a yummy picnic. And we made a spontaneous stop at a Virginia Vineyard for a quick wine tasting. We finished off the celebration with a few too many glasses of sangria and the great company of friends.

During our hike S2H asked me what I wanted to do in my 26th year and so formed the bucket list. This list is a little ambitious but it is nice to dream!

Travel more! This includes more trips to my dad's beach house as well as taking S2H abroad! I also want to visit Savannah, GA and New England.
Go to a UNC Basketball Game. Giselle is going to be a junior at Chapel Hill this fall and we have yet to make it to a game, this is a must!
Learn to crochet.
Take a class. I still have no idea what I want to do when I grow up, but it is time to figure it out. So I am thinking that if I take some classes it might help me. Top runners are, graphic design, photography, ceramics, or pastry.
Explore DC. I have now lived in the DC suburbs for 4 years and still have not visited all the museums, monuments, food spots, and hidden gems of the area.
Take more pictures.
Plan a reunion with my high school girlfriends and their significant others.

I'm back...with BIG news!

2011-02-14T13:01:00.002-05:00

So...S2H and I are engaged! Or have been engaged is more accurate. I am so mad at myself for not writing this post 54 days ago when he popped the magical, life changing question. But I got so wrapped up in the air like feeling I had and the whirlwind of excitement that I completely neglected to write everything down. Which is a bummer since that initial magic and beauty is so hard to capture 54 days later. But all those warm and fuzzy feelings are still with me, and better late than never (at least that is my mantra when it comes to blogging and shipping birthday gifts)!

Let me start off this little story by saying S2H is way sneakier than I give him credit for. I am a control freak and like to have a plan and be in charge of the plan. But I LOVE to be surprised, which is almost impossible due to the prior statement. I knew S2H had spoken with my dad and asked for his blessing, I also knew that S2H had gotten my mom's engagement ring from my dad...I knew all this because I am a spaz and wanted to be involved and make sure my dad and S2H had a good love convo and that the ring was safe at all times. I also went jeweler shopping with S2H because I was nervous that some mobster jeweler would (a) ruin the precious ring (b) steal the precious ring (c) swap out my mom's stone for something that she had never touched or worn...I watch too much Dateline NBC! After finding the perfect family owned (non-mobster family) jeweler S2H and I designed the new setting together...it really was a joint effort. He wanted me to love the ring I would wear the rest of my life, and I wanted him to be proud to place it on my finger one day. After this I was no longer to be involved with engagement stuff...which I wanted but was really hard! I tried to put the engagement out of my mind but that is virtually impossible...don't let anybody tell you otherwise! I was however very mellow around Christmas...this was because I had told S2H that I did not want to get engaged at Christmas...just not my style. So the whole month of December I thought I was in control and worried more about getting a puppy with a big red bow and making the perfect Christmas cookies. Alas, sneaky S2H knew this was the perfect time to strike!

We spent the day packing for a Christmas visit with S2H's family in PA. The day was filled with laundry and last minute gift wrapping. I was kind of grouchy since I hate packing, was feeling weird about my first Christmas away from home, and I had my mom on my mind since it would have been her 50th birthday. S2H kind of did his own thing most of the day...he was out and about "buying last minute gifts". We opened our stockings by our Christmas tree before we left. We had the car all packed and were almost out the door when S2H started "putzing." You know, moving things around, going to the restroom, taking out the trash. I was ready to go people...I had on my yoga pants, uggs, pillow in hand, and scarf to snuggle with. Then S2H tells me to grab my bathing suit so we can use the hot tub at his parent's house. Umm....no way, I am not wearing a bathing suit in December...they don't call 'em chunky knit sweaters for nothing! After much prodding he finally got me to go into the bedroom. He followed me in and asked me if he could say a few things about my mom on her birthday. I was totally confused at this point, but he convinced me to sit on the bed. He was standing but I made him sit next to me because it felt awkward - see control freak. He started saying these wonderful things about my mom, how he felt like he knew her because of the way I loved him and the time he has spent with my brother and sister. This is when I just closed my eyes and let the tears fall while he said all these amazing things about our relationship. I finally opened my eyes when he took a brief pause. S2H was down on one knee telling me he couldn't think of a better way to celebrate my mom than asking me to marry him on her birthday!! I was stunned...it is the craziest feeling, I can't even describe it. It's like all the worry and sadness you ever felt leaves your body and you are filled with hope. Between a teary kiss I of course said "yes"! Or something along those lines. And then he put the most beautiful, sparkly ring on my hand...a ring that was half my mom's and half something we created together. Something that reminds me every day that she is on our side and part of our love. And that was my most perfect engagement (on December 23rd) to the most perfect man for me. He obviously knows me better than I know myself, has the kindest spirit, and always goes above and beyond. It was a moment I dreamed about but the reality was far better than the dream!

p.s. Happy Valentine's Day! xo

Tree Teaser

2010-12-14T21:06:00.000-05:00

My little 700 square feet are about as decked out for Christmas as they can be! S2H and I got our tree about two weeks ago and I have been fussing over it ever since! I turn on the lights as soon as I wake up in the morning and as soon as I get home from work! I am still trying to get the perfect picture, so until then here are some photos from our tree hunt (aka visiting the Knights of Columbus at Church and having a nice "dad" like figure tie it onto the 1994 Toyota Camry...holllaa)!!

{in front of the little red "sleigh"}

{S2H insisted on taking his traditional tree pic with Lou...we really need Santa to bring us a puppy!}

Night at the Nidos

2010-12-13T21:12:00.001-05:00

One of the highlights of my Thanksgiving weekend was a sleepover with the Nidos. This house just glows with holiday cheer, so it was just what I needed to get into the Christmas spirit. A meal with this culinary family is indescribable so I'll just show you with pictures! Nido Mom showed me how to make bread and I snuggled up to Nido Dad to figure out just how he makes that vodka pasta so amazing! And of course sweet Nina and I indulged in beverage or two!

Giddy!

2010-11-30T15:19:00.000-05:00

Hello, hello! The holiday cheer continues! S2H and I had a great visit with my family in SC and a lot of fun with family friends in Charlotte. I am still riding the holiday high as S2H and I are going to see Michael Buble tonight!! I am so excited! S2H surprised me with tickets on Thanksgiving, and I could not be happier! I have been dreaming of Buble since and am crossing my fingers for a couple Christmas tunes. I leave you with the dreamboat himself! Eeeekk!

Happy Thanksgiving

2010-11-25T22:52:00.000-05:00

Happy Turkey Day! S2H and I are in SC with my family; enjoying good company, yummy eats, and 75 degree weather! Have a wonderful long weekend!

{nothing better than beach walks with my two favorite people!}

{so thankful for giselle! xoxo}

Autumn in New Hampshire

2010-11-22T22:11:00.003-05:00

Earlier this month S2H and I spent a long weekend visiting my grandparents in coastal New Hampshire. We had perfect Fall weather and spent the three days exploring local apple orchards (I was dying for a New England apple cider donut), a winery, and the beautiful seaside towns. S2H and I made a point to cross the road in front of my grandparents' house and walk on the beach every day. There is something so special about the beach during the cold months. I have millions of pictures from the weekend, but here are some of my favorites.

Game Day Food Blitz

2010-11-21T21:15:00.008-05:00

Many a Fall Sunday is spent watching football in my small abode. Well, I'm not the hugest football fan so to keep myself entertained I have tried to mix up our game day food menu this year. Below are the top recipes S2H and I have tried this year. I can't say our waistlines were always thankful but our taste buds were definitely doing the touchdown dance!

Ham & Cheese Sliders
courtesy of Annie's Eats, recipe here

These little guys are packed with flavor between the mustard, onion, and poppy seeds. We tried the sandwiches on both potato rolls and mini wheat slider rolls, I preferred the potato rolls and I am sure Hawaiian sweet rolls would be even better.

Beef Chili
courtesy of Smitten Kitchen, recipe here

This chili is a hearty treat for the weekend. It is full of veggies like carrots, bell pepper and beans (I added more than the recipe said for all of them). The chili is more on the thick side and doesn't have too much soupy-ness. We served it with biscuits one day and then orzo the next day. I'm sure it would be wonderful on nachos too!

Crockpot Pulled Pork
recipe adapted from Beantown Baker
Ingredients:
(spice rub)
2 tablespoon ground black pepper
1-2 teaspoons cayenne pepper
2 tablespoons chili powder
2 tablespoons ground cumin
2 tablespoons dark brown sugar
1 tablespoon dried oregano
4 tablespoons paprika
2 tablespoons table salt
1 tablespoon granulated sugar

1 (6 pound) pork tenderloin
1/4 cup of water
1 bottle of lager (we used Yuengling)
2 cups barbecue sauce

Mix all spice rub ingredients in small bowl.

Massage spice rub into meat (I recommend doing this on a jelly roll pan or large cookie sheet with sides). Wrap tightly in double layer of plastic wrap; refrigerate for at least 3 hours. For stronger flavor, the roast can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. (I refrigerated ours for 1 day).

Unwrap roast and place it in slow cooker liner. Add 1/4 cup water and bottle of lager. Turn slow cooker to low and cook for 8-10 hours, until meat is fork-tender.

Transfer roast to cutting board (again, I used a large cookie sheet with sides. This helped to contain the mess); discard liquid in liner. Pull by tearing meat into thin shreds with two forks or your fingers. Discard fat.

Place shredded meat back in slow cooker liner; toss with 1 cup barbecue sauce (or more depending on your taste), and heat on low for 30-60 minutes, until hot. Serve with additional barbecue sauce.

I think this was S2H's favorite meal of the season so far, it was such a treat! I made the coleslaw using this recipe.

Texas Caviar
courtesy of In No Simple Language

This recipe is my favorite of the bunch. It is a super simple dip and the fresh avocado is really tasty. It is the best thing to ever land on a frito! This dip travels well and only gets better as it marinates, I have brought it to two different tailgating events and it is always a huge hit! So good that I have yet to take a picture of it, I get all consumed in eating it!

Ingredients:
2 Cans of black eyed peas with jalapenos (my store didn't carry this type so I just added my own jalapenos)
1 Can original Rotel
2 Medium sized avocados
1 Large green bell pepper
1/2 Large purple onion
1 Lime
3/4 Cup Zesty Italian

Directions :
Dice avocados, bell pepper & onion and put in large bowl. Cut lime in half and squeeze juice over avocados, bell pepper & onion. The lime is to give flavor and preserve the avocado. Place black eyed peas in strainer and rinse then, add to add to bowl. Poor can of Rotel in the bowl with it's juice. Finally, add the Zesty Italian. Mix with a large spoon. Don't stir too hard or much as the avocados could get smushy depending on the ripeness you buy.

If you try to eat the dip right away, the bell pepper and onion will be quite crunch. It is best if the bowl sits in the fridge and everything marinates for a while. Delicious with fritos, tortilla chips, sun chips, anything to deliver it to your mouth!

Help Make Dreams Come True

2010-11-11T15:27:00.000-05:00

And vote for sweet Nina! Nina is competing for a blogger spot with Nature Made. Our Nina would be the perfect "good mood" blogger so vote every day here!

In honor of Mrs. Nina I am sharing one of the recipes straight from her family's kitchen. Like I always say, magic comes from the Nido Kitchen, and this recipe does not disappoint! Once you have a bite you will be voting for Nina every day!

Italian Mac & Cheese

Ingredients:

1 lb. of Hot Italian Turkey Sausage

1 lb. of Gemelli pasta (or small elbows)

1 Large can of diced seasoned tomatoes (or 2 of the standard size cans)

1 & 1/2 Bags of Four Cheese Italian Shredded Cheese

1 Egg, beaten

Garlic powder (or minced garlic)

Italian Seasoning

Salt & Pepper

Milk

1/2 cup Italian Bread Crumbs

Parmesan

Olive Oil

*Preheat over to 400

-Cook pasta according to the box instructions, drain, set aside

-Remove casings from sausage, cook in skillet, breaking apart with a wooden spoon. Once fully cooked drain any excess oil and set aside.

-Put pasta and sausage in baking pan, I use a Corningware rectangular pan.

-Add tomatoes, 1-1/12 bags of cheese, then I usually add some additional Parmesan.

- Add salt and freshly ground pepper.

-Add one egg beaten, then add, Italian seasoning and also minced garlic or garlic powder (to taste).

-Pour enough milk just below the top of the pasta. Now, mix it all up with a large spoon! All the spices, milk, tomatoes, egg, etc.

-The last thing to do is to sprinkle (generously) some Progresso/or other Italian bread crumbs over the top of the pasta. Over that....drizzle some olive oil to taste. Not too much, but just drizzle all around the top.

- Cover with aluminum foil, put in 400 oven for 30 min or so to cook together and heat up.

-Once cheese is melted and bread crumbs browned, remove from oven, cool for 10 minutes and serve!

Tortellini Soup

2010-11-04T21:31:00.001-04:00

I love soup, and my soup craving always gets stronger as I pull out sweaters and boots. I like my soup to have lots of things in it and just the right amount of broth...not too slurpy. I saw this soup from the Culinary Couple a few months ago and instantly book marked it. The weather this past weekend was just screaming for soup so S2H and I got to work! This meal far exceeded my expectations and will definitely be a repeat this winter!

Tortellini Soup

from the Culinary Couple

Ingredients

· 1/2 lb. sweet Italian turkey sausage

· 1 cup onion, chopped

· 2 cloves garlic, minced

· 5 cups beef broth (I recommend low sodium, just so you can control the salt level)

· 1/3 cup water

· 1/2 cup red wine

· 1 can whole tomatoes

· 1 cup carrots

· 1/2 teaspoon basil

· 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano flakes

· 1 cup tomato sauce

· 2 zucchini, chopped

· 8 oz. cheese tortellini (I used the Bertolli three cheese and garlic tortellini)

· 1 package or 1 bag fresh spinach

· Parmesan cheese

Directions

In large pot, cook sausage ~5 minutes. Remove meat and set aside.
Add onion and garlic. Saute.
Add broth, herbs, wine, tomato sauce, vegetables (except zucchini and spinach), and sausage. Bring to boil. Reduce heat and simmer uncovered ~30 minutes.
Add zucchini, spinach, and tortellini. Simmer ~25 minutes.
Ladle into bowls, sprinkle with Parmesan, and serve with your favorite bread.

P.S. S2H and I have a house guest this week...Louie is back!! Pretty sure a Fall photo shoot is in order! :)

{how cute is this face! makes me smile!}

Just What the Doctor Ordered

2010-11-03T10:08:00.000-04:00

This weekend was blissfully low key. Just what I was craving after a week on the road for work and a month of busy weekends and lots of "to dos." S2H and I kicked off the weekend with a double date at Sweetwater Tavern. We were accompanied by the lovely Bree and Tommy. We love Sweetwater this time of year because they brew the most a-m-a-z-i-n-g pumpkin beer. We wait all year for this beer to hit the tap list...it is so perfect and the brown sugar glass garnish is too good for words. It was so fun catching up with Bree and Tommy, in fact after sitting at the table longer than the busy staff wished we headed to B&T's to finish off some take away pumpkin beer. I wish I had taken a pic of B&T's sweet pup, Sadie and Sydney the cat - they were both such sweetie pies. S2H spent the car ride home talking about how we must get a dog!

Saturday I woke up to pumpkin muffins and french pressed coffee...way to go S2H! I spent the morning bumming around the house munching on muffins and watching DVR. I was very disappointed to see that Mondo didn't win Project Runway...I'm just not a Gretchen fan. But the Halloween episode of Modern Family made me laugh at loud! I finally forced myself out of my fuzzy slippers and headed out to get a mani/pedi. I went for essie's downtown brown and love it...minus the fact that my flats smudged my big toe! How that happened I have no idea, I sat under the dryer for 30 minutes! S2H and some friends joined the masses in DC for the Rally for Sanity and/or Fear. I met them for a late lunch after it was all over. I had planned to go but decided I would find more sanity with a little pampering!

I completely bailed on Halloween this year...I didn't even get a pumpkin! So costumes were completely off the table. Instead of dressing up we spent the evening cheering on Penn State! I lit a pumpkin candle and called it a success (thanks for the candle Erin & Jen!). It also helped that I made an awesome tortollini soup with rosemary bread for dinner! (soup recipe to come later this week)

{this soup is perfect for a crisp fall weekend. i ate it all weekend!}

S2H and I woke up bright and early on Sunday to support our friend, Erin, as she ran her first marathon. Erin had a lofty goal of finishing the Marine Corps Marathon in under 3 hours (crazy!!)! And guess what?! She totally rocked it! Her final time was 2.59.56! Holy moly this girl can move. We followed her all across Arlington and DC, I got a high just from watching her, so determined and strong!

You can see Erin's take on the race here. Congrats Erin, you're amazing! We spent the rest of Sunday with the MCM support crew celebrating Erin's success. I'm back on the road again for work today. Hopefully I will get a few posts out from the hotel! Happy Wednesday!

Day Trippin'

2010-10-30T12:14:00.000-04:00

Living in Northern Virginia is great, there is always something going on in the DC area, plenty to see and do. However, every once in awhile it is wonderful to escape the city and explore some of the great a places surrounding the DC metro area. This past summer I treated S2H to a "day date" in Saint Michaels, MD. St.Michaels is a gorgeous historic town on the Eastern Shores of Maryland. On a good day it takes about two and a half hours to drive there, we won't talk about the summer traffic and the battle that is getting over the Bay Bridge!

I knew S2H would love this little town. You can walk to a brewery, winery, and some awesome seafood restaurants all in a matter of minutes! We started off our afternoon day date at St.Michaels winery. The winery was super cute and rustic. I loved it! We sat at the bar and each had the "staff favorites" wine sampler. It was really fun chatting with the staff and hearing about how the winery was started and all the awards they have won. The guy started the winery pretty much on a whim. He was burnt out from his DC job (uuhh, I know the feeling) and loved St.Michaels and thought a winery would do well there. Lucky for him it has been a huge success and become very popular! All the wines were pretty tasty, and kept getting better with every sip! ;) I'm not much of a wine expert so I'll just talk about the most unique wine they had. They make a chocolate wine! No joke, it is infused with dark chocolate...right up my ally. This Chocolate Zinfandel is pretty sweet but I was sold when the wine lady told me it makes an awesome raspberry chocolate sauce...in the bag it went! I can't wait to make a little creation to go on top of vanilla ice cream!

The whole day date was a surprise for S2H and the main part of the surprise was a massage at the Linden Spa of The Inn at Perry Cabin. The Inn is gorgeous; set right on a little point on the shore with beautiful views and Adirondack chairs covering the lawn. I left S2H at the spa for the "athlete's relief" massage and hung out at the Inn watching the sail boats go by...it was such a relaxing two hours! S2H came out of the spa happy as a clam and ready to hit the brewery!

The Eastern Shore Brewing Company visit was a great way to end the day. The brewery had a rustic/cozy tasting room and a crazy, eccentric bartender to boot. Bartender Rusty had been pretty buzzed all day... I think since the night before as he told us he had gone to a huge rager. We were the last customers of the day so Rusty decided he would drink with us. He and S2H even shared the "Rusty Rocket." A lovely shot of pale ale and hot sauce...yikes! Needless to say Rusty provided some great entertainment and S2H left with the dream of running his own brewery!

We spent the rest of the day window shopping and I picked up a Christmas Ornament as a trip souvenir. I found a little sailboat ornament at an all things Christmas Shop...I could have spent hours in there! You can tell by the pictures that we had a cloudy day which was perfect for walking around. The rain came just as we stopped for dinner...perfect timing! Our seafood dinner was so so, definitely didn't leave an impression since I have no food photos! Next time we will definitely have to search for a better dinner spot. All in all it was a perfect day trip, I would highly recommend St.Michaels to anyone who can make the trip!

Etsy Halloween Finds

2010-10-02T10:30:00.000-04:00

Not sure what I am really loving-this little cutie or the stripped leggings and tutu! Got a little one or can't resist buying this for a friend? Click here.

I just couldn't help myself! A little ode to my hometown - Charlotte, NC! Y'all interested? Find it here. I think I may head to the craft store and try and make my own!

You can find the best inspiration on Etsy. This Halloween garland would be perfect for a play room or party. I don't have a sewing machine but I think this is totally do-able if you have one. For my fellow friends lacking the sewing skill click here.

If I had a kiddo in the tutu costume I would have to have a party to show off the adorableness. I love these paper invites. They kind of remind me of Charlie Brown! Definitely need to figure out when It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown comes on :). Click here.

Hopin', Wishin' & Prayin'

2010-09-30T19:36:00.003-04:00

...for FRIDAY! Oh man people, this has been a rough week. Rough as in I am currently eating mac & cheese out of a box and biscuits with butter and I DO NOT CARE! To boot I have taken over the tv and am catching up on all my Bravo reality shows, Flipping Out seems very appropriate right now. I know I am wallowing, but plan to let it go after tonight. I want to enjoy the fun weekend S2H and I have planned, so once I finish this biscuit I am forgetting about work and the events of this week! The weekend agenda includes date night, tailgate party, and lots of time in the kitchen. We plan to see The Town. Has anyone seen it, yay/nay?

To help take my mind off things I have been perusing the webs for a little bit of cheer. In case you are in my boat-praying for Friday to come, here is a little distraction to help get you through the work day!

how cool is this water bottle? genius! i wish i would have thought of this!

after eating 1,000 calories tonight maybe i'll cut back this weekend and sip on these.

this brought back cozy childhood memories! my family used to vacation in maine every summer. my parents actually met in maine in their teens during a family vacation! not sure i remember ME being particularly aromatic though...

i'll be making these pumpkin cookies for the tailgating party, yum! for sunday steelers i'll be treating S2H to chili!

digging the photo above? check out the rest of stephanie rausser's work here. very fresh.

if only i could wear these leggings and a hoodie to work tomorrow...might make the day bearable. i think a pumpkin spice latte will have to do.

these two girls are inspiring! i might just have to start a thursday girls night!

That's all for now sweetsies! Hope you have a wonderful weekend!

Sunshiny Sweet Takes Penn State...Mac Clan Style

2010-09-27T22:21:00.036-04:00

This past weekend S2H and I headed to the great tailgating land known as Penn State! It was perfect weather for a football game, sunny and a crisp 70 degrees (much more pleasant than my previous PSU game). We loaded up the mini-van with chili, buffalo chicken dip, apple crisp, and as many Mac Family football fans as we could fit and took off for Happy Valley! Once in Happy Valley we met up with S2H's brother and sister-in-law (also PSU grads) and their two girls. All in all it was a good showing of Macs, including S2H's mom and dad, Aunt Nancy & Uncle Jim.

{check out that yummy spread, color coordinated of course! how cute is little em?! and yes, jen and i have such good taste that we went for the same white-out t-shirt for the game (had to do a wardrobe change as i was originally in blue).}

We tailgated before the 3:30pm kick-off and had fun catching up and tossing around the football. We also talked about the revival of my blog, which Uncle Jim fondly referred to as "Sunshiny Sweet!" Hahaha...I knew I was going to have to use that for the blog post title! :)

{the whole gang!}

Penn State played Temple this weekend and it was a pretty close game in the beginning, but Penn State had some big plays in the end and won 22-13 . I can't really say that I was paying too much attention to the game though. We were sitting right next to the student section and their was plenty of action in the stands to keep me entertained.

{joepa taking his rightful place on the field, nittany crowd surfing, best student section ever}

We couldn't have asked for a better Fall day or tailgating crew! For the next game we are off to the "Alexandria, VA" PSU Campus for a little local tailgating action. Any food ideas for me? I'm thinking of making football cupcakes or something pumpkin! Let me know if you have any suggestions. Cheers to Football Season!

A Tasty Goodbye

2010-09-24T19:11:00.000-04:00

This week officially ends the summer season. But you wouldn't know it with the sweltering 90 degree days, so S2H and I embraced the weather and went out for bbq! BBQ holds a special place in my heart since my love with S2H officially blossomed in Kansas City, MO. And we all know that KC is the mid-west bbq capital! I also love going out for bbq because it is definitely something I can't whip up at home.

We headed over to Rockland's BBQ, an Arlington staple. Rockland's has a homey feel with its rustic decor and friendly staff. You can tell the owner has a lot of heart, not only for food, but for pups! Every Thursday you get a free pulled pork sandwich if you bring your pup along to dine. It is the cutest thing ever! The patio has a nice little corner with doggie treats and K-9 toys. S2H was swooning, another pro for us getting a dog!

{give you an idea of the charm}

I was already smiling when we took our seat next to the K-9 gang with my mint sweet tea but I was glowing when the food came out! Baked mac & cheese, coleslaw, and tomato/vinegar pulled pork (brisket for S2H). Yuummm-o. And the bbq sauce was to die for, almost good enough for swimming!

We finished off the meal with an S2H style dessert...a pitcher of Blue Moon. It was so nice to take a moment and sip some yummy brew and talk about how fun the summer has been. It has been a whirlwind season with weddings and family visits. I hope the Fall brings just a many fun memories and moments with family and friends!

Summer Flash Back: Family Vacation

2010-09-16T19:59:00.000-04:00

Summer solstice is right around the corner, closing out the hottest season EVER on September 21st. And I can't let the summer end without posting about my one beach trip of the year! This beach trip was a big one for me as it was my first family vacation with S2H's huge clan! I'm talking multiple houses on the Outer Banks to hold the all the aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and siblings! It was crazy, I have never experienced such a family vacation. The Mac Clan does not mess around. They have organized dinners, activities, beach tents, and happy hours! Yes, each house choses a theme, a night and they host a happy hour for everyone else with goodies and drinks. Hippie Happy Hour below...we even made tie-die shirts!

{See-HUGE Family, and there are peeps missing from this picture! I'm on the right with a baby (I'm squinting-not cute)...S2H has 7 baby nieces and nephews so everyone pretty much got to hold a baby!}

S2H has been going to the Outer Banks since he was 10, and this planned family craziness is a tradition. Another tradition the Mac Clan has is the annual family photo on the beach. Now this may be the usual for most of you, but the OD's are not a group photo bunch. And definitely not a coordinated clothes family! S2H's sister decided on white shirts and khaki pants for the picture. I worried for weeks about what to wear for my first Mac family photo opportunity! The ladies in the Mac Clan are fit- as in they have four babies and still stay teeny tiny, so I was a little self conscious. Here are wind-blown results:

{S2H's immediate family...hello kiddos!}

{Each sibling got their own individual "family" pic, including me and S2H! Hahaha}

The wind was absolutely insane on the beach. The whole time I was trying to swing the hair out of my face. Not a good look.

{Me and baby Jake, and proof that I did try and have luscious beach locks for the picture}

Overall, it was an amazing week and I really enjoyed the quality time with the Mac Clan. Everyone was very warm and welcoming. Can't wait for next year...any happy hour theme ideas? :)

The Bouquet Toss

2010-09-13T12:25:00.001-04:00

S2H and I just attended our third wedding of the summer season. All have been beautiful and just as special as the happy couples. I am behind in posting about all these wonderful weddings. My idea was to feature one wedding every week but I have to go out of order because of the unique events that happened at the wedding this past weekend.

Our friends, Jayana and Dan, got married in Dunmore, PA this past weekend and the wedding was straight out of a fairytale. Jayana has incredible taste and her detail oriented nature shined throughout the whole wedding. The nuptial mass was also incredibly sweet and they did an amazing job honoring their families. Here are a few pictures to show what I can't put into words!

{the gorgeous reception at the Scranton Cultural Center, Jayana started dancing here when she was 5!}

{S2H and I meet Jayana through work, here is the rest of the work crew and table mates}

{i was swooning over the details, this candy bar was color coordinated and to-die-for. monogrammed to-go bags included!}

{chocolate fountain...no words}

I could go on and on with pictures of this gorgeous event, it was just amazing. The wedding was also a lot of fun, just like the couple! In the middle of all the dancing they took a pause for the bouquet/garder toss. I usually try to steer clear of this tradition but their were too many people pushing me towards the center for me to resist. I stood off to the side with all the single ladies and did my best to keep towards the edge of the action. Well guess what? That pile of roses came right at me!!

{see me to the right. i was so shocked! and about 5 shades of red! p.s. how gorgeous is jayana!?}

{now the mortifying part, the garder! i had no idea what to do and was wishing for a strong beverage!}

Can you believe it?! Quite the eventful wedding for me. I can only imagine the pictures and video footage...hello awkward Meghan faces! Hopefully they will get misplaced during a freak accident. Anyways, it was a beautiful wedding and I feel so blessed that S2H and I were able to share in the celebration of two amazing people! Congrats Jayana & Dan!

Goooo Duukkkes

2010-09-12T15:25:00.001-04:00

I'm not much of a football fan, if anything I get most excited about tailgate food options! However, I have a little prideful football glow today! In case you or your significant other (ahem S2H) isn't plugged into ESPN all day, let me tell you, JMU beat VT for the first time ever yesterday! The Dukes upset the Hokies with a 21-16 win, in the Hokie house I might add! This is a HUGE deal for those from Virginia...Tech and JMU are just not part of the same football planet. But today the Dukes rocked the Hokie world! Congrats boys! Gooooo Dukes!

image via here.

Not Just Hand Soap

2010-09-10T09:30:00.000-04:00

I know, I know, this is not a very exciting post (especially for a Friday). But I just can't help it; I have found an amazing new soap and I have to share! My general stance with hand soap is that I buy whatever is on sale and never buy those refillable soap holders. I love how pretty the glass and ceramic holders are but I feel like they always break or stop pumping, and seem to gather water at the bottom...and we all know what that leads to, ew. In the past Bath & Body Works was my favorite hand soap, especially the holiday editions! But hold the phone, and good bye Bath & Body Works. Sweet Nina introduced me to Motif, the most delectable soap to have ever graced the sink counter top. Their motto says it best so I am just going to quote. "Motif is dedicated to making the small, unexpected things in your life just as precious as the big ones." I am 100% serious - this soap puts a smile on my face. They have the best scents and the cutest pattern labels (the bottles are also biodegradable and recyclable). Right now my favorite is blackberry basil, but I have cypress & pear waiting in the queue and I can't wait! It is like a heavenly pause every time I wash my hands! So where do you find this magical soap (besides the website)? Target, and it is priced at $3.99, less than the B&BW soap , bonus! I know you think I'm crazy, but try it for yourself and get back to me :). Happy Weekend!

image via here.

Liquid Gold for the Hair

2010-09-09T09:30:00.001-04:00

While in Charlotte this past weekend I snuck over to my old hair salon for a little trim. I know this is pathetic, but I haven't been able to find a stylist that I like and can afford in the DC area (yes, I have lived here for three years). I have a strict rule not to pay over $50 for my hair as I usually just get a couple inches taken off and some layers...easy peezy. I can't justify giving a stylist $80 for such a basic cut, especially when they only blow dry it half way...grrr. Needless to say my stylist did her magic and my split ends disappeared and all my fly-aways were tamed in less than 40 minutes!

The greatest part of the experience was the new product she introduced me to. Usually I steer clear of asking for products because they are so pricey but my hair was so smooth that I had to ask. She said she now swears by Earthly Body's Marrakesh Hair Serum. This stuff is awesome. It tames your hair and helps it dry faster! You can also use it on damp or dry hair. She gave me a few samples and it actually worked when I styled my hair at home, a true miracle! I've been searching online for the best price and the range is between $15-$23. Not too bad since a little goes a long way. I am still in the honeymoon phase since it has been about 5 days but I feel like this may be a new chapter in my hair life!

image via here.

Summer Reading

2010-09-07T22:05:00.000-04:00

During my summer trip to the Outerbanks with S2H and his family I became totally gripped by Stieg Larsson's The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo. I think I finished the book in about 3 days. I stayed up til 3am one night! I am a nerd in the way I become so engrossed in a book, I just can't help it! One night I was reading, and the book was so intense/violent that I had to wake S2H up and make him sleep on the floor (we were in separate rooms to set a good example for the kiddos!)! I have now moved on to The Girl Who Played with Fire. So far this book is just as good as the first. At this point I'm not sure how much of the book I am even absorbing because I want to figure out what happens so bad! It will definitely be a book I have to read again. But for now I need to hurry up and finish and move on to the book club book. To follow up August's book, To Kill a Mockingbird, we are reading Truman Capote's In Cold Blood. Did you know Capote and Harper were childhood friends? Harper actually helped Capote with the research for In Cold Blood. We figured this would be a neat connection to explore. The next meeting is at the end of September, I'll let you know how it goes!

Moore to Love

2010-09-03T13:00:00.001-04:00

The weekend has finally come and it is time to celebrate my amazing friend Nina and her groom! I am so excited to be in Charlotte, showering these two wonderful people with love and witnessing the beginning of their new life. Congratulations Nina & Mark!

Back to School...

2010-08-31T12:03:00.010-04:00

I loved getting ready for "back to school". Not so much starting class but shopping for new school supplies, fall clothes, and then best of all, goodies for the dorm room. Well now I am a little worker bee, sadly with no direction of when/in what way I want to go back to school. But I can still make my "back to school" wish list!

a good start for any event or season is a good pedicure. i think this "fish net stockings" red from essie may just fit the bill as we transition into fall!

back to school for college kiddos and alumni definitely means tail-gate! how about these little margarita juice boxes for those early fall games? convenient and fun!

i'm on the hunt for the perfect pair of nude heels. this nine west pair would be perfect but i kind of want patent leather??

i love the look of the new messenger bags this fall. just not sure i love the idea of something sitting on my huge hips...yikes!

speaking of purses i am smitten over this kate spade "book of the month" clutch! hello book club...i need this! if only this textbook was in the budget!

planners are my absolute favorite! i could buy ten every year as there are so many options! angela found this one for me and the best part is that a portion of the proceeds go to Pediatric Cardiology care!

I could go on and on with my little wishes but that would be a lot of scrolling for you all. So we will just end on this nice pink polka dot note! What's on your "back to school" wish list?

Unique Wedding Gifts

2010-08-27T11:00:00.000-04:00

This summer I have 4 weddings! And all 4 are friend weddings...a first for me. Since I am a serial procrastinator I have found that I do not do well with the registry thing. I wait too long and then there isn't a thing left. I'm not exactly sure what the etiquette is for buying gifts outside of the registry but I've come across a few online gift finds that I will definitely be bookmarking. Hopefully they will be a hit with the happy couple!

{i love this family sign from etsy. and not bad at $32}

{i adore this personalized cutting board from monogram chick...great for entertaining!}

{personalized Christmas ornaments make thoughtful gift toppers}

{this fiesta margarita basket keeps the party going even after the reception is over}

Do you have any go-to wedding gift items? Is it ok to go off the registry? Happy wedding season!

1st Annual "Lovies" Convention

2010-08-21T20:17:00.010-04:00

Last Thursday I headed down to Pawleys Island, SC for a little girls weekend to celebrate our favorite bride-to-be, Nina! The weekend was a whirlwind of laughter, story-telling, nail painting, firefly sweet tea, and quality time with the best girls I know!

{Miss.Muffin is so creative, she had monogrammed towels made for all the girls!}

{Beach time was so fun-long walks, lots of reading, and the best company!}

{We finished the weekend with a wonderful dinner at Frank's. We all got a little teary toasting Nina and our wonderful friendships! The food was delicious- fried okra, shrimp & grits, goat cheese salad, creme brulee & sky high cake! The malbec was tasty too, we ate like the princesses we are!}

{"let us be grateful to people who make us happy; they are the charming gardeners who make our souls blossom." ~marcel proust}

Saturday Musings

2010-08-21T15:33:00.004-04:00

Happy Weekend Everyone! Hope you are spending your Saturday enjoying the little things. S2H and I spent a lazy morning hanging out with my cousin and munching on a savory strata along with some fresh berries...yum, might be our dinner too!

My head is spinning with a few things. 1.) I can't seem to find a pair of favorite earrings (they were my mom's). This is driving me crazy as this summer I lost one of her earrings to the ocean...grrr. Praying to St.Anthony is now my hourly mantra. 2.) Miss.Nina's wedding is in exactly 2 weeks! Can't wait to see my sweet friend walk down the aisle. I feel so lucky that I get to stand by her side! 3.) I need to lose 3/4 of an inch in my waist before Nina's wedding so I can fit into my bridesmaids dress, yikes! This is not good as I sit here savoring ice cream. 4.) I need a haircut. Bad. But I can't seem to find a stylist in my neighborhood. Everything is so expensive, and I can't justify paying $80 for a trim. But my split ends are making themselves known. Any recommendations??

I'm off to organize pictures and future posts. Have a wonderful weekend! To see some tid-bits from my girls weekend last week click here and here.

Time Flies

2010-08-19T12:00:00.003-04:00

{i love this man. gold guido chain and all!}

I mentioned in my last post that S2H and I celebrated our two year (dating) anniversary. Our actual day is July 31/August 1. We decided to start dating the night of July 31 so I like to count both days. It took us a whole year to start dating! First we were co-workers, then neighbors, neighbors turned into best friends, and best friends turned into snuggle buddies (don't judge, it was a cold winter in Kansas City!). After many nights of Jon & Kate Plus 8, drunken walks home holding hands, movie nights on the couch, the appeal of homemade dinners and lunches (food is the way to S2H's heart) and some battles in between we finally started dating. I always knew I wanted S2H, took him a little longer to feel the same, but we both fell in love together! The two years has been packed with triumph and tears, but I am always glad I have him beside me. He is the only person I would ever want to be my roommate and the first person I call with news. He can handle my panic when I am lost (which is a lot) and my territorial kitchen behavior. He lets me talk him to sleep and always makes the bed. I know I am blessed when we catch each other's eye.

We had so much fun celebrating that it will take another post for all the pictures. I treated S2H to a day date in the Eastern Shore, so fun! More to come!

Two Left Feet

2010-08-18T09:38:00.008-04:00

Greetings! I know I have been MIA for quite some time but I plan to come back with a vengeance! This summer has been quite a whirlwind and I want to give all the moments some blog justice. I wanted to return to the blogging world with a post about my sweet friend, Carolyn, and her gorgeous wedding. I say this because she actually mentioned to me during her reception that I hadn't blogged in forever! I knew then that it was time to return to the interwebs. However, I have some Facebook stalking to do to gather some good pictures of the glowing Carolyn and her handsome groom, Jimmy. My camera is slowly dying and could not handle the romantic lighting!

Currently, I am struggling with a bit of stage fright. S2H in all his boyfriend awesome-ness signed us up for a 4-week beginner ballroom dance class to celebrate our two year anniversary! That S2H is so smart! This gift is creative and involves both of us learning together, aka, a winning combination. There is one teeny tiny setback....I am a clumsy mess! I don't dance unless I have half a bottle of vodka in me and it usually involves my hands in the air and me singing along to Journey! I know...a hot mental image! Yikes!

I am trying to prepare as best as I can for our upcoming class next week. My cubemate is going to try and teach me the box step before next Tuesday and make me somewhat presentable. Much of my fear lies in the fact that we have to switch dance partners. I know S2H will still love me even if he has to hold my clammy hands and ice his toes from my monster feet but what about everyone else?! I'll be "that" girl. Do you know I never even went to prom!? I have decided to focus on the things I can control. So if I am going to be the last picked partner I mine as well be wearing a cute outfit! The dance studio recommends loose-fitting clothing and leather soled shoes. I think I am going to take my inspiration from the wedding planner. You all remember the scene where they dance an angry tango during the ballroom dancing class, right?

So here is what I have come up with. Hopefully I can talk S2H into a little shopping trip this weekend! :)

{possibly this little number from j.crew}

{i think a tulip skirt could work??}

{i could definitely move in this, but it may be too clingy}
{this one is my favorite from anthro...kind of reminds me of Center Stage! what do you all think?}

Happy Summer

2010-06-21T14:21:00.005-04:00

Today is officially the first day of summer. However, we have been having 90 degree days in the District for quite sometime now. S2H and I successfully kicked off the summer with friends at Jazz in the Garden and a Saturday Nationals game! I also snuck off to the pool for some reading time in preparation for this Tuesday's Book Club. We are reading Bel Canto. I am only a hundred pages in and struggling! I'm just crossing my fingers that I will finish in time.

This week I will be busy prepping for a weekend in Charlotte celebrating bride-to-be Nina! We have plans for lunch, wedding gown viewing, bridal shower, and lots of snuggle time and yummy food. From Charlotte, I will be heading straight to San Diego for work and play! Busy Busy! I am the worst packer and already have anxiety about packing for these ten days in two very different climates...yikes! Any advice? PLEASE send it my way!

A little update....I have been successful with my stickk.com goal for two weeks in a row! I think all the healthy cooking is paying off. I now need to get an action plan for all my travel so the numbers on the scale keep dropping! I wore my bikini out this weekend and I feel VERY uncomfortable and that maybe it is only appropriate at a private pool, like with no other humans. We shall see...

There were many pictures taken this weekend, just not by me, cause I am so bad at that! But hopefully I can snag some from friends soon. Until then, have a good week!

photo from PB.

A week in the kitchen

2010-06-10T16:56:00.008-04:00

I tried three new healthy meals this week and they were a big success! They left S2H and I feeling full but not guilty. I think I may save my more "savory" recipes for the weekend when we can eat them for a late lunch and then "walk" them off. I'm just not prepared to give up my baked mac & cheese obsession!

Below are the links for the three meals I made. All are from Cooking Light and took no time at all!

-Crispy Fish: I am not a huge fish fan but I loved the panko bread crumbs with the tilapia I used. The only additions I made to the recipe were a few baby itty bitty pats of butter on top (I couldn't help myself) and added some all-seasoning to the breadcrumbs. I served it with roasted zucchini, just tossed with a bit of olive oil, salt & pepper, and a sprinkle of fresh parm!

-Mushroom-Herb Chicken: I made a few edits to this recipe...(1) I didn't have marjoram and had never seen it in any other recipes before so there was no way I was going to buy it. So I used tarragon and I think it worked out well! I also didn't have sherry on hand so I used port wine. S2H liked the meal but I still missed the yumminess of cream sauce...but that does not fall in the "light" category! I served the chicken on top of mashed garlic red potatoes, very good for soaking up extra sauce, and steamed broccoli.

-Chicken-Orzo Salad: This was S2H's healthy meal find of the week. And he made the whole thing by himself while I slept off the weariness of my morning root canal. I love orzo, it's practically guilt-free pasta! And the goat cheese really pulled everything together. We've made variations of this type of salad before but never with arugula. The arugula added a nice peppery bite. Definitely a keeper for future Friday night dinners!

On another yummy note I made Mini Mexican Hot Chocolate Cupcakes this week for a fiesta inspired baby shower at work! The cake was nice and airy, and there was a nice heat at the end of the bite thanks to the cinnamon, cayenne pepper and coffee in the batter. I topped them with awesome cinnamon cream cheese icing...delicious...I would know as I ate half the icing while I tried to get the perfect amount of sweet. I followed the recipe to the T but for some reason I had about double the batter. Instead of 24 minis I could have made 48! Not sure what happened, I stopped at 36 cupcakes just for my own sanity. But no harm no foul, they were a big hit at work and I think I am slowly becoming the baking princess of the office...I love a good title! Both recipes came from the blog, Everchanging Plate. This is my new favorite food blog, the writer is a Chicago Pastry Student, how cool is that?! I wish I knew I could be a pastry student when I chose Finance as my major in college. Maybe in another life? :)

Sorry for the lack of pics. I just can't bare to bust out the camera in my non-air conditioned kitchen! Pains me just to stand near the oven! I hope you all have an amazing weekend...filled with yummy food and friends to share it with!

Kitchen I am obsessing over via here. If only I weren't a renter, my bitty kitchen would be in demo as we speak!

The Last 10 lbs....

2010-06-07T16:48:00.005-04:00

In my quest to get into a bikini this summer I signed up for stickK.com. StickK.com’s mission is: “stickK empowers you to better your lifestyle. We offer you the opportunity, through 'Commitment Contracts', to show to yourself and others the value you put on achieving your goals.”

I made a commitment to lose 10 pounds in fifteen weeks. In turn I have to lose .67 pounds every week to meet my goal. To motivate me stickk suggested I put a wager on my commitment. I wagered $10 per week on myself. So if I lose the .67 pounds- yay me, no money lost. If I don’t meet my weekly goal, and here is the kicker, S2H gets my $10!! You can choose for your wager to go to a friend, charity, or wherever. I have been unsuccessful the past three weeks and let me tell you it sucks! You have to confirm 5,000 times on stickK.com that yes I DID NOT achieve my goal. And then I have to watch it recalculate…booo, worse then waiting for your GPS to recalculate when you’re lost. And then five seconds after all this trauma I get an e-mail that my hard-earned, potential Starbucks money, is going to S2H. Gah, the misery!

I am crossing my fingers and my toes that this same tragedy doesn’t happen to me this week (the big weigh in is every Wednesday). However, I was a bum all weekend. And I can’t even remember if I worked out last week. What I do like about this little commitment is that because of the website reminders and the trauma of being unsuccessful there is a little voice in the back of my head always reminding me of those .67 pounds that need to be lost. These ten pounds are definitely going to be a challenge. I am going to have to be smarter and more creative than the first go-around. I totally understand now when people say the last few pounds are the hardest to lose. S2H is on-board so that helps. He has his own stickK.com goal too (and yes I get reap the reward!). So the friendly competition will hopefully work in our favor. We are also trading off weeks to find healthy new recipes to make, to help keep things exciting (I will be sure to post any winning recipes). I even ordered a bikini…I may just hang it on my full length mirror to add to the torture. I’ll be making posts here and there as a quasi journal for myself. Hopefully you all don't mind and may even get involved and give me any tips that have worked for you! So here we go...I now have to answer to this blog and stickK.com, wish me luck!

Friday Finds

2010-06-04T15:09:00.006-04:00

Happy Friday inter-webs! I have been lacking with my posting but I have still been perusing and have some things to share. Hope everyone has a restful and fun weekend. I have a babysitting gig tonight (hello tax-free cash), some special invites to pull together (future post on that to come!) and then pool time with S2H! I am also hoping to write some posts this weekend and download about 3 months worth of pictures. Why is it such a challenge to get the pictures off the camera and onto Shutterfly? Does anyone else have a brain block when it comes to this stuff? Please tell me if you have any tips!

thought provoking article thanks to hilary...i need to practice my patience

are you a smart cookie? i get daily e-mails from this site with tips on how to save & be a smart spender!

my new favorite food blog...i have made the mac & cheese recipes, tequila burgers, and many more-all have been a hit!

when-to-wash-it handbook...i am my clothes worst enemy!

food myth busters courtesy of Hungry Girl

Polyvore is my new favorite tool! i've used it two times now to create quasi inspiration boards. it is so fun and easy...download the tool and click on any inspiring picture you find and it saves it to your account for later!

these food pics make me happy! i might just steal some of the supper menus from this blog!

photo via here

I'm going to the beach!

2010-04-16T07:00:00.001-04:00

I have been counting down to this beach trip with Mrs. Random Reality for months! We are off to Fort Myers, FL with our SOs (significant others, for those not hip to the lingo-my boss's vocab!) for four days of sun and fun. Ang and I plan on camping out at the beach all day with a packed lunch and Coronas! I am so excited I can barely stand it. It is the perfect reward to follow up my 10 mile run. No bikini for this trip, but maybe I'll be ready the next time around?

photo via here.

A Little Love for Project Runway

2010-04-14T19:16:00.006-04:00

Do you watch Project Runway? It is a constant on my DVR. I just love everything about it, and I envy Heidi Klum, I wish I could look like her-pregnant or not! Anyways, Season 7 is wrapping up and I definitely have my favorite. I adore Anthony Williams. He is a teddy bear of a designer from Georgia (yes, I am a sucker for the southern charm) and makes beautiful clothes. He has had a few "opps" outfits on PR, but what he lacks in talent he makes up for in personality! He calls it like it is, and his laugh is contagious. You must go to mylifetime.com and watch him!

{anthony is oh so fab and check out the fun cocktail dress!}
{anthony's winning look for the Heidi Klum/Marie Claire cover challenge. i love the color!}
{me in nyc @ parsons! more to come on my surprise trip to nyc.}

photos via here & here.

Running...well more like jogging

2010-04-13T14:59:00.006-04:00

About two & a half years ago I started running...aka jogging...but running sounds way cooler and more athletic, so just play along. I was really just trying to get rid of my college girl belly and make up for four years of Natty Light and late-night cheesy bread from Pizza Hut (best.thing. ever.). Along with being a little more conscientious of what I was eating I was able to lose about 30 lbs. in a year/year and a half. I have a love-hate relationship with running. I love it because I actually got results from running, and hate it because it doesn't come naturally, hurts and most of the time not so much fun. My body just doesn't seem built for running...I over-pronate to the extreme degree and have a weird stride and just am not made for speed. But I stick with it because it is way more fun being a size 6/8 than a size 12/14 (Confession: I had to buy size 14 dress pants when I first started work! Took me about two years to actually say that out loud, and I can't believe I am releasing this fact to the world wide web! But I am sure everyone will pause and then move on with their day...so no biggie, right? Pun intended!).

I used to run alone and solely on the treadmill. I prepped for a half marathon all on the treadmill. The half marathon (2008 VA Beach Rock & Roll) was somewhat successful. I ran part of it with my sweet friend from college (a first for both of us) and I finished. However, I wasn't able to run the whole thing because I didn't train properly and I stupidly drank two bottles of water before the race and had to detour to the portas at mile 6 and that totally threw my rhythm off. After that experience I took a little hiatus from running and exercising. It was a six month hiatus and definitely a set back. Over the years it has become harder and harder to run on the treadmill and now I feel like the gym ceiling is closing in on me when I try to get on the treadmill. So recently I took my little jog outside and brought S2H with me. Being outside was much more freeing and S2H was a huge motivator. I'm not much of a competitor or one with willpower so it doesn't take much distraction for me to slow my jog down to a walk. But S2H keeps me focused and I keep pace since I don't want him to have a crummy work-out because of me.

S2H was actually part of the reason I started running in the first place, believe it or not! We started work on the same day 2.5 years ago and discovered we lived about .25 miles away from each other. After that little discovery we started to commute in together to save money on parking. Soon after that S2H decided that he was going to start staying after work with the boys to workout, which left me paying for parking all on my own if I didn't stay too. Being the little saver I was back then on my GS-7 salary I decided to hit the gym, and I believe my little crush on S2H had started and I wanted to be with him as much as possible. And that is where my treadmill adventure began! We have now come full circle to present day and S2H and I are still running together! For the past three races we have actually stayed together the whole time, which is very motivating to have someone setting the pace for you. We ran the 10K Jingle All the Way in December, Crystal City 5K in April and the Cherry Blossom 10-Miler on Sunday. I only have photos of the Crystal City 5K, please ignore my pale, no make-up wearing self! Hopefully I will have pics from the 10-Miler soon. This race was so stinkin' hard...the longest I have run since the mentioned half marathon. S2H and I ran the whole thing and could still walk afterwards! My friend, Erin, totally rocked the race and finished 19th overall for the women! She inspires me everyday, we sit diagonally across from each other at work and it is impossible not to follow her to the gym when you know she is going to go kill 6 miles in 30 minutes!

{S2H loves this pic because it looks like he is passing me...loser!}

{why do i look so miserable? told ya...i do not make it look easy! hahaha}
{nichole, erin, me, & s2h. i really need to consider self tanner.}

I'm still not exactly happy with my figure/size/the way clothes fit. I am trying to make some changes but I love cooking, sharing food so I am having a hard time making compromises. I kept a food diary in the past and that was a good way to really see what I was eating, but it also takes a lot of time and I'm not sure I want to spend my time counting calories. Maybe Weight Watchers? I love Jennifer Hudson as the new spokeswoman, she makes WW seem so hip! Could be a helpful tool in losing my last ten pounds, it seems like WW points are on everything! All I know is that I need to meet my long standing goal of wearing a two-piece bathing suit in my adult life! I haven't worn one since I was 13 and it is almost too late! So if you have any tips send them my way...don't be surprised if I just start posting swimsuits to help motivate me!

St. Patrick's Day

2010-04-09T13:35:00.007-04:00

I'm almost all Irish and even have a brother named Patrick, so big no-no that I didn't have a timely post for the day of my people! No worries though, I definitely celebrated and even have a few pics to prove it! For the office, I made car bomb cupcakes! These little 3-bite treats were the holy trinity: Guinness in the cake batter, Jameson Whiskey in the dark chocolate gnache, and Bailey's cream icing! They were a big hit in the land of cubes and will definitely be expected in the future! You can find there recipe here, courtesy of Smitten Kitchen.

{yummy dark chocolate gnache with Jameson!}

{final product}
{S2H decided we needed a little irish coffee for the cupcake taste test!}
{s2h likes, washed down with a lovely glass of Guinness}
{finished off the day with a few green beers at a local pub}

MIA Blogger

2010-04-08T12:53:00.004-04:00

I have been a very bad blogger. For whatever reason I have lost my spark for blogging and it has now been a month since my last post. This is bad, very bad, especially since some pretty fun moments have happened since then and I need to post about them so I remember them. I am following the lead of my sweet friend Nichole over at Chloe's Chronicle and doing a bit of back (b)logging. I hope you'll bear with me as I reflect on events of February and March! I promise to recommit myself to blogging and get with the program!

So to start: S2H celebrated year 26 back in February and I never posted about the delish meal and cake I made!! We had a yummy meal of fillet mignon with our favorite HT garlic bread and green beans and peanut butter cake!! Recipes here & here

{this steak and onion topping melted in your mouth, so good S2H requested it for Valentine's Day two weeks later!}

{smitten kitchen rocks, her recipes have never failed me. this cake was out of this world: all from scratch-chocolate cake, peanut butter cream frosting, and dark chocolate gnache. it was hard to share but so massive that we felt guilty not to!}

Pale or Reflecting Light?

2010-03-13T23:11:00.003-05:00

Ok people, I don't think I can take this weather much more. If it's not snowing then it's monsoon rains! I am so sun deprived there is no miracle bronzer in all of Sephora to help me! Yesterday I wore a skirt without black tights for the first time in months...it was not good. Even S2H chuckled as my legs reflected the partly sunny light! Very bad when even your boy can't keep a straight face! My only hope is that I have a little over a month until I head down to Florida for a much needed beach weekend. Til then I'll be dreaming of the picture of above...lets all take a moment to sigh...sun, please come back soon!

So over the phone

2010-02-27T23:31:00.005-05:00

How do people manage long distance relationships? I am so in awe of people who can make it work no matter mountains, oceans, time zones or coasts. S2H has been gone 7 days and I am currently counting down the hours til he gets home tomorrow night. I am just not good at being on the phone and I never feel completely connected during our conversations or text messages. I just get off the phone and want more. So all you long distance love birds...how do you manage with all the miles?? Do you skype, watch tv over the phone, make a list during the day of things you want to mention...tell me, what keeps you sane!?

photo via here

Am I getting old or is Land's End getting cool?

2010-02-27T15:00:00.008-05:00

Happy Saturday blog world! Today is admittedly a lazy day for me. I stayed in my pjs for about 5 hours and then contemplated a run for a few hours and finally forced myself outside. The weather was great but my run...not so much...I need to get my butt in gear this month before my 10 mile race! Yikes!
Anyways, during my lazy morning (ahem, afternoon) I had some time to catch up on my blog reading. My sweet JMU friend from Off the Hanger had a great posting that lead me to the Land's End website. Have you been to the old classic, Land's End, website lately? When I think LE I think of the mock turtle necks my grandma buys there every fall. Well I was shocked when I viewed LE's new Canvas 1963 line. Their summer clothes are refreshing and make me want to go grab my Sperry's and hop on a sailboat. Well I haven't been sailing since grade school but I do have an April beach trip and here a few things I have my eye on.

photos via here

Starbucks Fail

2010-02-23T21:25:00.003-05:00

The past few weeks I have been on the road for work. And my diet has definitely suffered as a result. Interacting with people all day makes me crave junk food and somehow chips and salsa just makes sleeping in a hotel not so bad! Well today as I had meeting after meeting all I could think about was a cupcake...I know, so not deep. At the end of the long day I rushed over to Starbucks to try their new vanilla bean cupcake, I even got a mini milk box to go with it! I tucked it away for my late night treat and waited til Lost started to savor it. Well I'm on a commercial break for Lost and that cupcake is in the trash! Total fail. The cupcake was dry and the icing was blah in my mouth! So disappointing I could cry...my vanilla milk box was better than that crummy cupcake. So boo Starbucks...from the Queen of Sweets: cupcake=downgrade.

photo via here

Saving Grace

2010-02-09T17:47:00.004-05:00

Some of you may have heard how the DC area has completely shut-down and most are out of school & work. Well, here is my pouty moment...I STILL HAD TO TRAVEL FOR WORK. That's right people. I had to get myself to Enterprise on Monday and beg for an SUV and then crawl my way down to NC for a business trip. So I am not happy...I love nothing more than a snow day...2 snow days, just not fair!

Alas, there is a saving grace! Nina from Peace, Love & Good Food is making her own little trip to come have a date night with me! We are never in a 2 hour drive from each other so this is really a treat. I haven't seen Miss. Nina since her big engagement so I can't wait to give her a huge hug and demand to try on her new bling (I know it's tacky but I don't care!)!! A night with my Nin definitely makes up for 2 missed snow days (maybe 3). Thank goodness for wonderful friends and girls nights!

photo via here

Snow Action...Take 2!

2010-02-05T16:03:00.002-05:00

Well loves, it looks like a snow storm is taking over my weekend once again. I'm flying solo this weekend, but I do have Louie here to keep me company. Since S2H won't be here to cozy up with me I stopped by Trader Joe's this afternoon for a few treats...couple bottles of red wine, mac & cheese, and a Toblerone bar (hopefully I can make it last all weekend). If you're getting snowed in I hope you too have all the necessities! xoxo

*And don't you fret...there will most definitely be a post dedicated to Louie in the snow!

photo via here

Wishing S2H the Happiest of Birthdays!

2010-02-01T10:15:00.002-05:00

Today S2H turns 26! It is so exciting to celebrate another birthday together! S2H has surpassed the quarter century mark with flying colors! During his 25th year he became a godfather, ran his first 10 mile race, taught me to ski, learned to brew beer, and continued to be a wonderful brother, uncle, son, friend, and my best everything! Cheers to you babe, happy birthday!

Proper home for all your treasures

2010-01-28T13:08:00.010-05:00

Not sure about you all, but my jewelry is a mess...tangles of beads, hoops, and bangles! Even though my bling is a disaster I am not the biggest fan of jewelry boxes. My stuff tends to be a bit over-sized, and while I do have a few special pieces most of it is costume jewelry, so it just doesn't fit in a standard jewel box. Well low-and-behold...I found the perfect solution while blog browsing yesterday!

I present to you: Custom Jewelry Display

{how amazing...all those big earrings organized and ready to wear!}

{i'm in love with these knobs!}

See these displays & more @ the Jewelry Art Store

Here are a few suggestions for your special pieces of jewelry

{ perfect for your pearls from Pottery Barn}

{too cute from Etsy}

{safe & sound for your travels, you can even get the silver tab monogrammed}

Arrr you having a good day?

2010-01-26T14:06:00.002-05:00

Hello blog world! Just wanted to check in and say hi! S2H sent me this funny pic of his niece and I just couldn't help but smile. How fierce is she?! Hope you get a little smile out of this :)

Sister weekend

2010-01-22T22:00:00.002-05:00

Happy Friday! I am off to see Giselle for a quick weekend :). I'm looking forward to 36 hours of mani/pedis, movies, sweet potato fries, shopping and gossiping! Sometimes the only cure is a bit of sister time! Hope you all get to spend time with your loved ones this weekend! xo

speaking of loved ones...here are some loving ideas from the web! muah!

sweet nothings treat

the cutest personalized cards

sweet dreams

lucky lucky!

be mine

nothing says love like chocolate

*photo via here

Loving Frank...Not so much

2010-01-21T20:48:00.007-05:00

Book club is back in action! I apologize for my lack of book club reporting; we took a break for the holidays and I have just been slacking. Our book for January was Loving Frank by Nancy Horan. To sum it up the book is a fictional rendering of the real-life affair between architect Frank Lloyd Wright and his mistress Mamah Borthwick Cheney.

This was a great group discussion book because it touches on issues such as morality, family values, feminism, art and love. I personally despised FLW and Mamah and had a difficult time connecting with their actions and motives to leave their children and families. I was so distracted by my disgust for the couple that I couldn't even get through the book! I did an awful thing and skipped to the end to prep for our book club meeting (first time I have ever skipped to the end!). The ending was so unexpected that it convinced me to go back and finish the book. If you have read the book I would love to hear what you thought! Did Mamah's name drive you as crazy as it drove me!?

Up for February: The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larrson. I never gave my review of The Help but it was AMAZING! A must read!

{book club group! we decided to bake for December instead of reading ;)}

*Need help setting your 2010 Reading List? See Hilary's blog! She has great advice and book reviews!

book cover via here

A case of the Mondays...

2010-01-11T12:12:00.003-05:00

Afternoon loves. I have some not so fun things going on this week and it is starting to wear on my nerves a bit. So I am perusing the internet for some cheer and smiles. I came across this picture and quote and had to share! Hope your week is off to a sparkly start ;).

"We can complain because rose bushes have thorns,

or rejoice because thorn bushes have roses."

~ Abraham Lincoln

photo via here.

2010-01-08T15:38:00.003-05:00

I woke up to a nice blanket of snow this morning. Unfortunately, not enough for an official snow day, but it did look pretty. Hope everyone has a weekend full of cozy blankets, hot chocolate, and dvr! Cheers!

photo via Steve Miller. Steve is a local DC photographer. I just love his work!

Not so cheerful...

2010-01-07T11:25:00.004-05:00

A friend of mine recently posted this article about how the Manhattan H&M Store is THROWING AWAY new clothing that I am assuming is taking up the space for newer inventory. There have been multiple accounts of bags and bags found near the store trash full of new, still tagged clothing. Now here is the worst part, the clothing has purposefully been destroyed. One witness explains:

“Gloves with the fingers cut off,” Ms. Magnus said, reciting the inventory of ruined items. “Warm socks. Cute patent leather Mary Jane school shoes, maybe for fourth graders, with the instep cut up with a scissor. Men’s jackets, slashed across the body and the arms. The puffy fiber fill was coming out in big white cotton balls.” The jackets were tagged $59, $79 and $129.

How sick is that? With so many people in need and the weather so frigid how can a company justify destroying and trashing winter coats? People have reported similar actions from the Walmart store nearby. To read the full New York Times article click here.

**On a sunnier note see According To Nina's post on how Sear's supports our military and shows what it really means to be a Corporate Citizen.

A Clean Slate!

2010-01-05T11:30:00.003-05:00

I'm not much for New Year's Resolutions but after reading the posted resolutions of so many bloggers I feel compelled to make a public list of my own and have you all make sure I stick to them!

I have many parts of my life that constantly seem to be "under construction" but here are my top goals for 2010!

(1) After many stress induced pains and headaches my main goal for 2010 is to take better care of mind, body, and soul. I will continue to learn how to manage my stress and anxiety, and get all those dreaded doctors' appointments taken care of. Not too mention more regular hair cuts, my split ends are out of control!

(2) Be more grateful. I have a tendency to always be looking ahead or looking back. I would like to train myself to enjoy the present and all the wonderful little moments in life (also the purpose of this blog).

(3) Start going to church more regularly and join a parish. S2H has the same resolution so hopefully we will support each other and grow together in faith!

(4) I loved the movie Julie & Julia! It has inspired me to try at least two new recipes a month! You might not think this is a lot but work travel starts soon and I want to be realistic! I think this will also make me a better girlfriend to S2H. ;)

(5) Be a better godmother and reconnect with friends.

(6) Grow my blog and invest in my creativity

(7) Live and embrace my reality.

Well, here is to 2010! Hope your year is fabulous!

photo via here

Christmas Recap

2010-01-04T15:26:00.006-05:00

I know we are in 2010 but it is never too late for a Christmas Recap! S2H and I celebrated Christmas at home by getting our 1st real Christmas tree, seeing the DC Christmas Decorations, eating lots of homemade cookies, exchanging gifts a bit early, and watching Elf, Home Alone 2 and other classics.

For the big day we went to New Hampshire (aka the North Pole) for a mini family reunion of my dad's side of the family. It was the first time S2H meet most of my uncles and cousins, and he passed with flying colors. I on the other hand stressed way too much and ended up giving myself an awful headache/toothache from grinding my teeth in anxiety ( I know I know...relaxing is apart of my New Year's Resolution)! All in all it was a successful Christmas and I am looking forwarding to keeping up with the new traditions S2H and I shared this year!

{gifts with S2H, we even did stockings!}
{he always makes everything more fun}
{right before Christmas Eve Mass}
{little bro & giselle}

Merry Christmas from DC

2009-12-21T12:54:00.006-05:00

Christmas is 5 days away! And only 3 days til I get to see Giselle and the rest of the family! S2h and I will be heading to the North Pole (aka NH) to meet up with everyone and celebrate. We have been trying to get into the spirit here in DC...some photo proof!

{visit to the national tree}

{NC Tree}

{our first real christmas tree!}

Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow...

2009-12-19T17:43:00.005-05:00

{so excited!}

{s2h=best snow angels}

hello blizzard! we are completely snowed in today here in alexandria. this is the most snow i have ever seen! hopefully it will stay around long enough for a snow day on monday!

Still Celebrating Pumpkins

2009-11-09T21:12:00.006-05:00

Don't worry, I may have been lacking in posts, but I didn't forget to get pumpkins! S2H & I went to CT to visit my family and enjoy some Fall Festivities. We stopped by my favorite childhood grocery store, Stew Leonard's, and got pumpkins, apple cider donuts, and sticky pumpkin bread. While I was trying to reminisce and relive my childhood some little guy was taking over the pumpkin patch!

{this was just one of the many things Miles (baby cousin) scaled during our visit}

Giselle Takes DC

2009-11-09T20:45:00.008-05:00

Ah the wonderful days of college and the fabulous vacations like "Fall Break." Miss. UNC herself came to visit me for her first fall break! (Thanks Padre for the sponsorship!) Now I must admit, I failed in the picture taking department. Giselle was here for four days and I only have a handful of pictures but we had tons of undocumented fun!

{perfect lady lunch=shakes+burgers+seasoned fries from good stuff eatery}

{hey Bravo Top Chef! Spike, the owner of Good Stuff}

{old town photo shoot take 1}

{question: do we look alike? i really can't tell.}

{miss her.}

Life with Louie...very belated

2009-11-09T20:15:00.007-05:00

My favorite house guest is back! And thank goodness, I should have posted about this little snuggler when he came to stay for a full week, but alas I was too busy dressing him up and taking pictures of him!
So who is the new little man of the house? It's Louie, the sweet pup of Mike & Ang! Mike & Ang are way more popular and well traveled then S2H and myself so every once and awhile we win the puppy sitting lottery and get Louie during their travels. Louie is in high demand and we have tough puppy sitting competition!
Louie is the perfect dog and is not helping my urge for my own little pup. The week with Louie was supposed to deter me from getting a dog, but Lou is so well behaved that now I just want to get him a playmate! Lou is back tonight and has inspired me to blog. I guess all you need to get out of a blogging rut is a little pup who fits perfectly on your tummy (not sure what that says about my tummy) and snuggles while you upload long overdue pics. For your enjoyment: October pics of the little man!

{bath time!}
{should have posted this two weeks ago...}
{and i'm in love.}

BFF & Fall Baking

2009-10-21T10:10:00.005-04:00

This past Sunday my friend Angela and I got together and channeled our inner Martha Stewart and got to baking! This little baking session was long overdue and we were both dying for something pumpkin. We decided on brown butter iced pumpkin cupcakes from Martha Stewart's Cupcake book. This book is heavenly and also a recent gift Angela gave me! Well we decided that 30 cupcakes just wasn't enough! I had a charity bake sale at work right around the corner and we wanted to bring treats to a mutual friend who had recently moved into her first place. So we went a little crazy and made banana nut muffins and chocolate chip cookies! Here are the results!

{cookies and muffins all wrapped up for the charity bake sale!}

{bites of heaven perfectly dipped in rich buttery icing}

*recipe for cupcakes soon to follow, i can't seem to find it online.

Searching for Inspiration

2009-10-14T15:50:00.004-04:00

I am in a blogging funk...maybe a life funk. No words today, I can't seem to find them. Just some images I am pondering.

*images courtesy of the bottom of the ironing basket

Fall Find

2009-10-06T14:20:00.002-04:00

I failed last week at my promised Fall Find, but I am quite excited about this week's find! This little gem was passed onto me by my sweet and cheery friend Hilary! Hilary is one of those amazing people who is always thinking about others. She's the friend who will shoot you an e-mail with a news article about a book you have recently read or some fabulous new restaurant by your house. AMAZING. Knowing I love all things food, Hilary passed on this very cool FALL Recipe Exchange! It is being started by another blogger, and I think it is just the best idea! I am already trying to decide if I should submit my Cheddar Apple Pie Dip or Pumpkin Bars, maybe both! The recipe exchange is scheduled for Monday, October 12th. So get your recipes ready and bask in the glory of all yummy things pumpkin, cinnamon and everything nice!

*Looking for a good book to get cozy with?? Check out Hilay's Blog, Pritt-y Story to Tell, you will be impressed!

Blessings Come in All Sizes

2009-10-05T16:02:00.006-04:00

My first draft of this posting felt all wrong. I started writing about the story of Ben & Jake, Scott's twin baby nephews. Well, I feel like you can never tell the story of a sick child unless you are the parent. Only a parent can feel their baby's pain and only a parent can tell their child's story. I am not a parent, I am not even technically a family member. And now, as I edit this post, this really isn't about Ben & Jake. It's about what they gave me, a renewed faith.

I have been blessed to be included in S2H's family for the past year. We have made lots of visits to see his brother's family in Hershey, PA during this time. I fell head-over-heals for Jen & Tim's two girls, Hannah (4) & Emma (2). Making sugar cookie lollipops with these two would be the highlight of my week! To add to the excitement this past June, to everyones' surprise and utter happiness, Jen & Tim added twin baby boys, Ben & Jake, to their family! I met these two little bundles when they were five days old. Holding an infant for the first time is always a memorable experience and it always feels different. Holding Ben & Jake gave me an overwhelming, warm feeling and I could not stop staring! I was in pure awe of these two little miracles. S2H and I were both dopey in love.

About four weeks later, S2H called me at work and told me the boys were both in the hospital. We were kind of having an "off" day that Monday but oh man can news like that snap you out of a selfish, moody state. The next two weeks were kind of like a blur of tears. We found out that the boys were extremely sick with what looked like viral meningitis. I was crushed. Anytime someone gets sick I automatically think about the loss of my mom; and all that pain and hurt came rushing back to me. It's a curse to lose someone like I lost my mom, it changes you in ways I can't describe. Since I lost my mom I have continually struggled with my faith and what prayer means to me. My thirteen year old prayers weren't answered, and that is a hard thing to bounce back from. But before I knew it, I was sending an e-mail to my friends and family to pray for Ben & Jake. I felt helpless and this was the only thing I could think to do. I was taken-aback by the response. I am so thankful for everyone who joined the S2H family in prayer and helped give them a happy ending.

S2H and I went to PA to help out for two weekends in a row. The first was to take care of the girls while Tim & Jen stayed with the boys in the hospital. We played games during the day, baked treats and read stories. That night we switched shifts with other family members and went to see the boys in the hospital. I didn't even make it into the hospital room before the tears started; I saw Jen in the lobby and it was all over. First we visited Jake, he looked pretty good and was definitely starting to look like himself after a hard week. We had to go to the PICU area of the hospital to see Ben. Ben was not Ben. I'm not going to go into detail or try and pretend like I know every symptom, ailment, medicine, or pain Ben was experiencing; because I don't. I just know my heart was crushed when I saw him. He was hooked up to so many machines you couldn't even pick him up. So awful to see Jen not be able to hold her baby boy. I was afraid to even touch him, my tears just feel on his little baby blanket. S2H and I left PA in disbelief that the healthy, happy baby we knew could end up so weak. I also left PA in amazement of the S2H family. This family gathered around Tim & Jen and held them up. It left me speechless.

The second weekend in PA was 5,000 times better! That week Ben rallied, fought, and came back from the awful illness that threatened him. Everyone was amazed, doctors, nurses, specialists, and the list goes on. We got the news and all I could think about was all the prayer that surrounded Ben. I am still working through the power of prayer in my little head, I think I'll be working on the whole prayer, faith, God thing for a while. But in some way I understand that Ben's return of health was a result of all the prayers for him. We went to PA that second weekend and saw all four kids at home with mom & dad. Very awesome!

Now you may be asking, Meghan, isn't this post a bit off in the timing?? Well, I didn't have a blog back in August, and more importantly Ben & Jake were baptized this weekend! (see the connection?!) I watched S2H stand behind Ben as his godfather. I watched Tim & Jen hold their boys with their girls huddled between them while the priest blessed Ben & Jake and welcomed them to the church. I sat with the family that prayed for these boys and I'm sure promised anything to have them healthy and back in their arms. It was beyond a special day. Every once in a while God finds you and you actually recognize Him. I'm not what one would call super spiritual, but I do have new faith.

{Jake & Tim, Jen & Ben, Emma & Hannah @ the baptism}

{Ben checking me out, he has already won my heart}

WE ARE! PENN STATE!

2009-09-28T20:23:00.012-04:00

Well...technically I am not Penn State-r, but hey, I don't mind partaking in a party!

This weekend the boy treated me to a weekend in Happy Valley, aka Penn State/PSU/College Football Promise Land/#1 Party School! We headed up to State College, PA with our newly engaged friends, Jayana & Dan, early Friday morning. Jayana & Dan are also Penn State alumnus and awesome weekend warriors(it was J's bday on Sunday too)! We spent Friday afternoon touring downtown State College and exploring the massive Penn State campus. The downtown was gorgeous. The shops, restaurants, and bars glistened under the early Fall sunshine; and you could feel the gameday buzz in the air. Let me start by saying my alma mater will always hold a special place in my heart that can never be replaced. But people, PSU has a CREAMERY on-campus!! Like a full blown home-made ice cream mecca smack dab in the middle of their School of Agricultural Studies. The ice cream is to die for! Having no dignity, I got myself a mint milkshake and proceeded to sample S2H's peanut butter swirl, and Jayana & Dan's pumpkin. It was all AMAZING! Had the thought of dairy not been the last thing on my mind come Sunday morning we would have definitely been making a second trip!

{#1 fan, impostor, & the lion shrine}
{s2h, jayana (bday girl) & dan (happy couple)}

Ok, ok, I know all of my PSU friends are ready to hear what I thought about the "Great Show" and get off my usual food ramblings...so here it goes. I have never in my whole 24 years seen anything like the football passion I witnessed on Saturday. Not only is it football passion it is tailgate passion as well. There where miles and miles of fields full of RVs, trucks, SUVs, tents, pop-ups, grills, 5-man beer bongs, flags, dogs, satellite dishes, flat screens, and I lost track of everything else from over stimulation. And, this was all by 10am in the morning when we showed up to check out the ESPN College Game Day scene. So yes, the gang got me out of bed and across the campus before noon to see the ESPN guys in action. Mind you the actual game didn't start til 8pm! These people know how to rally!

{tailgating with ang & mike}

Since the name of this blog includes the word "cheerful" I usually try to discuss all things happy. However, I can not report out on my amazing PSU weekend without mentioning the game day weather. 100% CHANCE OF RAIN. And boy did it rain. It rained from the minute we got up til the moment we layed our heads downs. I even went back into town mid-day to buy rainboots so I could survive the rest of the day! But no worries, the spirit of the PSU fan carried on and we tailgated in style and enjoyed the day. Penn State played Iowa that night in a "Whitehouse." A "Whitehouse," I learned, is when everyone in the stadium wears white, especially the student section. The effect is pretty amazing. The stadium practically glows and you experience the intensity of the fans through sight and sound. PSU fans are totally hardcore. The students stand the WHOLE time! Everyone cheers, chants, sings, boos and actually pays attention! It was pretty fun! I even enjoyed my first cup of hot chocolate this season! Very much needed in the cold, dreary weather. It was an awesome experience, and I can't wait for my next game!

{well hey there jo pa!}
{student section}

{umm...where are our bodies?!}

*I will not be reporting on the actual football that took place during the game...not so cheerful.

Fall Find

2009-09-24T09:15:00.006-04:00

With the first week of Fall coming to an end I am inspired to do a little shopping to celebrate the season. So what do I have on my little Fall Wish List?? Well, I am always thinking about food, particularly the sweet stuff! Imagine my excitement when I came across these little gems on the Williams-Sonoma website! These mini pumpkin/apple pie molds are perfect for the upcoming apple picking trip and my very near cravings for all things pumpkin. I just love the small size and easy pocket. I can just imagine sending S2H off to work with a little personal-sized treat in his lunch! Be on the look-out for my newest Fall Find next week!

*pictures courtesy of williams-sonoma.com

The Green Monsta!

2009-09-23T09:35:00.000-04:00

As excited as I am about the beginning of Fall...even though the 80 degree DC weather is kind of stealing the season's glory, ahem...I have had an amazing summer. One of my favorite memories was going up to visit my grandparents with S2H for a true New England weekend. My grandparents, fondly known by all my lovies as Maggie & Bill, are true hosts and always keep the laughs coming! Their house on the coast of New Hampshire has a special place in my heart and I was so excited to show the boy my summer stomping grounds. The night of our arrival Maggie treated S2H to his FIRST lobster! Now being true Boston-breed folk Mag & Bill were dismayed that Scott had never had a true lobster, but I think they were ever so excited to welcome him to the wonderful world of the REAL New England delicacy. S2H got a lesson from the pros on how to eat the lobster and even a plate with step-by-step instructions! Only these two would have a set of dishware that display how to eat a lobster! The big event of the weekend was the Red Sox Game! The happy family hopped in the car and made the short trip to Fenway Park. We had an awesome afternoon game full of sunshine, Fenway Franks, over-priced beers, and great company! The Red Sox knocked out the Toronto Blue Jays and we couldn't have asked for a better game!

{hot.}
Cheers to summer!

Welcome Autumn

2009-09-21T20:11:00.005-04:00

Today, according to my planner is officially the beginning of Autumn! Fall/Autumn is my favorite season and I get shiver bumps just thinking about pumpkins and hot apple cider! To celebrate Fall I got in the kitchen and baked some festive peanut butter-cup cookies. I l.o.v.e Reese's peanut butter cups, umm HELLO Reese's pumpkins! This recipe from the October issue of Real Simple was super easy and a big hit!

>Preheat oven to 375
1.5 cups all-purpose flower
1 teaspoon baking soda
pinch of salt
1 stick of unsalted butter (@ room temp)
3/4 cup dark brown sugar
1/2 cup granulated sugar (i substituted 1/4 cup Splenda Sugar Blend)
1 large egg
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 12-ounce package of small peanut butter cups, coarsely chopped
>Line baking sheets with parchment paper. In a large bowl whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt
>Using electric mixer, beat the butter and sugars until creamy. Add the egg and vanilla and beat til combined. Gradually add the flour mixture, mixing until just incorporated. Fold in candy.
>Drop tablespoon-size mounds of dough about 2 inches apart on lined cookie sheets. Bake until light brown around the edges, 12-15 minutes. Let cool on baking rack.

*Real Simple says the recipe makes 48 cookies, I got about 32 cookies from the recipe.

{ta da!}

To make the treat complete I brewed a bit of Dunkin' Donuts Cinnamon Spice Coffee. A kitchen can't smell much better than peanut butter, chocolate and cinnamon spice! Hope you enjoy!

Sentiment...

2009-09-17T16:36:00.004-04:00

is it friday yet??

Who do you love?

2009-09-15T15:30:00.003-04:00

I know this is cheesy and I will most definitely get made fun of, but look at my kissing tree!!! I found this sweet little tree at kissthegroom.com and couldn't resist. So who do you love?? Make one or as many as you want and send them off to your special someones! xo

Hmm...How do we feel??

2009-09-14T13:52:00.004-04:00

Fall is still officially a week away, but magazines have been talking about it for months! In my last issue of Real Simple magazine they featured the top nail color picks for the upcoming season. I am obsessed with this YSL Stormy Grey color. I was never into the whole Channel black nail thing but there is something about this grey. Nin thinks it might be too gothic, thoughts?? What's your favorite Fall go-to nail color?

Check out Real Simple for the rest of the Fall 2009 Nail Color Trends

Tarheel Love

2009-09-11T10:53:00.006-04:00

Giselle recently entered the fun and fabulous world of college! I am so proud of her and she is the cutest Tarheel I've ever seen! Nina and I decided to go spend a night with her over Labor Day and eat our way through Chapel Hill. Giselle, now being a campus restricted eater, was all about free, yummy meals that did not involve a plastic tray! We started our little foodie adventure with a stop at the Yogurt Pump. This a delightful little frozen yogurt shop hidden in a little cove off of Franklin Street. I had a summery blend of Raspberry & Vanilla, Giselle had chocolate with her favorite topping, M&Ms, and Nina went with the Toffee Nut sprinkled with Chocolate Chips. It was the perfect sunny day treat and the Yogurt Pump does it right by giving you two layers of toppings. Nina was so happy to find chocolate chips sprinkled midway through her treat.

{the beauties with their sweet treat}

Next, we made our way to Target. This is always a necessary trip for any college girl when she has a car to use and a big sis to pay! After our Target trip we were a little famished and stopped at Moe's, a favorite of Giselle's. And oh my they do have the best queso and chips! To quote the soul mate, "I could swim in this queso!" For dinner I finally filled my sweet potato fry craving at Carolina Brewary. I ADORE sweet potato fries and Carolina Brewery makes them with a dusting of cinnamon and sugar, TO.DIE.FOR. Accompanied with an Amber Ale, I was in heaven!

We finished off a fulfilling eating day with a stop at Starbucks to share a Pumpkin Spice Latte. A perfect ending to share with my girls. {see side bar of nin & i enjoying our favorite Fall beverage}
No worries, the eating didn't stop with just one day! After a lazy morning, we headed to Carrboro for a local breakfast. Elmo's Diner was a cute little hangout full of biscuits, jam, and all things to start off a happy day. I had the Farmer's Omelet with a biscuit fit for any good ol'boy. We all left with smiles and took a walk around the Chapel Hill campus to stretch our full bellies! I totally embarassed Giselle and made her take pics all over campus, gotta document her freshman year! It was a great trip all around, and I can't wait for all the visits to come. Gooooo HEELS!

{little love & i in front of the old well}

Arts+Crafts

2009-09-10T08:35:00.003-04:00

The perfect birthday gift is always a tough one. I either have wonderful inspiration or nada. My sweet JMU friend, Amanda, recently had a birthday and I discovered the perfect gift! Well, the perfect gift for us. I signed us up for a Crazed Card Making Class at Paper Source. It was a delightful two hours of experimenting with Paper Source Goodies and using a little bit of our creative mojo to make some handmade cards! We played with embossing, stamping, and even cut decorative paper lining for the envelopes. It was totally worth every penny to spend some much needed time with Amanda and end up with some cheery cards to send to others! At the end of class we all got a little discount coupon and I couldn't resist picking up a few extra things for the craft box. Here is a sampling of the newest craft box additions: envelope line template kit, and the birthday card making kit.
*picture courtsey of papersource.com

My Little Itty Bitty Apartment and the 42" TV That Lives There

2009-09-09T15:59:00.004-04:00

This past July I made the big adult leap and rented a one-bedroom apartment for me, myself, and I. While I am still getting used to living on my own and the challenges that come with it, I absolutely LOVE it! I think I am blossoming in my own little space!
With it just being me, there has only been one person to pay all the bills, making things a little tight. So for the past two months I have gone without a TV, internet and cable. YIKES! Actually, it hasn't been too bad since the summer has been busy with travel and time spent outside. However, one little visitor was getting quite antsy living without the modern luxuries, especially with football season starting! S2H gave me a strict football opening deadline to get a TV or else his presence would be missed for the season! Well I barely made it but a HUGE TV was purchased this week and the boy is glowing with excitement! All 42" is now proudly displayed in my living room! I may not be too excited about football, but I am secretly excited to get back into Project Runway and all my guilty pleasure shows!

{S2H so excited for the new living room addition}

Read Along...

2009-09-09T12:44:00.003-04:00

I love to read! And it is so much more fun to share good books (and good wine and treats) with a group. My friend, Angela, brought me along to her book club about a year ago and I am hooked! Book clubs are the best idea EVER! I always love hearing everyone's different perspectives and it makes you appreciate all different types of literature. This month we are reading The Help, by Kathryn Stockett. Read along if you want and let me know what you think. I hope to start this weekend and give you an update! {see my side bar for past reads}

Night in Greensboro

2009-09-09T12:17:00.009-04:00

My little sister, and best friend, started at UNC-Chapel Hill a few weeks ago. I was dying to see her in this new chapter of her life and made the decision to visit over the long Labor Day weekend! In an effort not to disturb her new party hopping schedule I decided to visit on Sunday & Monday. This actually ended up to be a bonus as I was able to have a quick visit with my newly engaged friend, Lo! Lo and I have known each other since 7th grade and it is so crazy to see her with the bling on her finger!
My soul mate, Nina, meet up with Lo and I in Greensboro and we spent a fabulous 24 hours getting mani/pedis, sharing a yummy dinner, discovering the most precious cupcake shop, sipping on wine spritzers and watching Project Runway. It was just what the doctor ordered! Here are a few pictures to document the day!

(Maxie B's Dessert Cafe, Nina & her Pumpkin Chocolate Cupcake)

(me, Nina & Lo)