..Mrs. Southern Bride..: February 2010

Most Beautiful!

I'm sure at some point in our life, we have all been to place that took our breath away, and left us the imprint that it was one of the most beautiful places in all the world...

Here are is a glimpse at some of my photography during our honeymoon...(more to come!)

For me? It was the coast of France at Gold Beach. The breathtaking beauty of the ocean, the cliffs...it was incredible!

Where is one of the most beautiful places you have ever traveled?

Exercise was great yesterday, just did track!

4 mils at the track (3 miles in the morning, 1 mile after dinner)

Fuel, Starbucks, Cupcakes, Oh my!

"Fuel"

Canon EOS 20D | 1/15s | f 4.5 | ISO 800

Speaking of fuel...We were at Starbucks last night, and after we payed, sat down, they told me they were out of the ingredients to make my normal drink (insert sad face). So they gave me a sample of their latest drink, Dark Cherry Mocha. HELLO!!! (insert happy face). It was good. I could totally see myself drinking it iced on a muggy spring afternoon...

Whoa...this morning I got up nice and early for the sole purpose of catching up with my bloggers! And let me tell you I am seriously behind! But, I'm catching up...anyway...

Remember the cupcake shower that my mom through me for my wedding? Well, she's still busy making cupcakes...

Here are the cupcakes mom mad for our "combination party". In our family not only do we celebrate Valentines together, but there are several birthday's in Feb as well...so we had one combined party. Mom made vanilla bean cupcakes with Cream Cheese frosting. And yes, that is Charlie brown cookie cut out on top!!! My little brother also made me a Lucy (from Peanuts) cutout cookie that he decorated himself, just for me (awe...so sweet!!!!!). I love cupcakes. I just think they are cute. Plus, the flavor mixtures are simply ENDLESS.

You gotta love her decorations! Especially that cute Eiffel Tower bag...I never get tired of anything French-ish related... ;-) I bet yall would have NEVER guessed that...HA!

Wha'ts your favorite cupcake flavor??

*****

Yesterday's workout:

2miles at the track!
Abs workout: Crunch (3 sets of 20), Boat Pose (3 sets of 12), Side Twist (3 sets of 12), and Standing Side Twist (3 sets of 12)
Arm workout: Curl (3 sets of 12), Lat Push (3 sets of 12), Side should Press (3 sets of 12)

World Of Classics

Old movies are the best, I think. I can't seem to watch enough of them! I recently purchased and watch the film noir "Sunset Boulevard" for the first time. I'm in the mood for new classics that I have yet to see.. So, I had to put together a few of my all time favorite classic movies...to see if you would agree, disagree, or add to the list...

How To Steal A Million: Starring Audrey Hepburn and Peter O'Toole. I don't know much about Mr. O'Toole, but his performance in this movie was nothing short of stellar. Probably one of my favorite romantic love comedies of all time! I loved the story line, the setting, the clothes, the humor...just loved it all.

It's A Wonderful Life: I don't know what there is to say that you probably don't already know, except the fact that simply adore Mr. Stewart, especially his role in this movie.

Casablanca: One of the few movies of Humphrey Bogart that I truly enjoy. I don't necessarily dislike the man, he just never made it to my favorites list. This movie takes me by surprise from the beginning to the end, making it a bit on the mysterious side...

Charade: I don't know how it can get much better having both Hepburn AND Carey. Stellar performances, and frankly I just loved this movie. And her clothes. I want all her clothes from this movie! Ha!

That Darn Cat: Okay, I'll be honest. I can't even begin top tell you how many times I've watched this movie! And every single time I just about die laughing. And I couldn't tell you why, except that I find Dean Jones to be down right hysterical. Hysterical I tell you!

So, tell me...what are your favorite classics?

*********

So, after a little break from posting my exercise, I realized I was lot more motivated when I held myself accountable here in bloggyland. :D Today's session:

3 Miles @ Track Today (2 after lunch, 1 after dinner)
30 Minute Plates Session

Splurge!

When I was getting my hair done, my hairdresser asked what my plans were to celebrate my b-day...when my response was that I wasn't really planning anything, he was shocked! "But it's a milestone birthday...you gotta do something!"....right. So when the my b-day arrived, we had our normal date night of dinner & a movie (of which I love), but then went home, where I preceded to clean up the house, and watch some tv alone. That's when I realized I must be a bit boring. Most folks party the night away on their birthday, but not me! In fact most people I know make quite the shin dig out of it......so I got to thinking...what would I really like to do to celebrate??? Shopping.

Oh yes. Retail therapy it was! And I made a goal to myself...I would splurge without worrying about the price. I'm a saver shopper...and almost never EVER buy anything full price. So I thought to celebrate, I should splurge. :D

And, the damage? See Below.

First up, I headed to the nail salon, where I had a french manicure, and chose a bright red Opi polish for a pedicure as well. Oh la la!

Then I headed to Belk's where I purchased my first ever bottle of Chanel. And I am in love!

A shopping trip without jewelry would be some kind of sin or other, so I bought a cute little earring number...but mine were turquoise!

And of course, I had to top it off with some Starbucks. Iced Soy Caramel Macchiato!

And that my friends is the tale of my gift buying therapy for Moi. Every girl needs to splurge sometimes! ;-)

What did you do for your last birthday???

The Passion, The Romance.

On Monday, I finally got to see "The Young Victoria"! I was delighted by the beautiful gowns, and passionate love story! I quickly found myself comparing the movie to "Miss Potter" and "Pride and Prejudice". The scenery, the actors, the dancing...the ballgowns. So beautiful! I was transported back to another time, another place...

“You are my whole existence, and I will love you until my very last breath.” --from The Young Victoria

Ah...the passion, the romance...

Have you seen it? What did you think about it? If not, are you planning on watching it?

My Birthday, Valentines and Current Music Obsession.

We ended up exchanging our Valentines early, on Saturday. Lots of chocolate for the both of us!! Josh cooked me some amazing Pesto Tortellini...delicious! I'm a sap, so I was smiling over my beautiful roses and the candle really set the "mood". ;-)

For his v-day gift, I took him to see the movie of his choice, which ended up being "Edge of Darkness". Amazing movie...but I couldn't sleep for most of the night. It was that kind of movie. I forget how much I enjoy Mel Gibson, he's such an amazing actor. And convincing.

With my 25th birthday looming ahead, I called in for a hair appointment on Friday. I told my hair stylist it was time for some change...so I ended up with fringe bangs! I'm loving them!

So tonight Josh it taking me out to celebrate my old age, haha! Now I just gotta choose where I want to go!

In other news I have listened/watched this music video no less than 30 times this weekend. :D I'm in love with the song. If only they would come to America for a tour...

Any other Snow Patrol Fans out there? If so, what's your favorite song?

Little Black Dress

"Valentine"
Canon 20D | 1/80s | f/14.0 | ISO 800

Yesterday, I found myself browsing one of my favorite flea markets/antique stores. It takes me close to two hours to finish the entire store. Everything from art, to vintage purses, clothes, to books reside in every little nook and corner. I am almost positive that I should start mixing vintage clothes with my regular wardrobe. I found myself dreaming away about new fun outfits I could come up with!

With Valentines around the corner, I am positive that another little black dress needs to find its way to my closet. Almost all of my dresses are black, or black & white. It's so classic, plus when dressed up with the right jewelry and classy pair of heels, it is perfect outfit for many an occasion!

So here's my latest cravings...

This cute little number from Target, paired with red heels, yes please!

And this? Perfect for a certain southern bride's anniversary coming up. ;-)

Well I'm off to dream of what vintage purse and sweater I should get first...

What's your favorite style of dress?

Their Faces.

The memories of each trip stay with me. I look at my pictures almost on a weekly basis to somehow lock the memories forever.

The girl in the pink and green shirt approached me along with some of her family members. They kept asking me questions over and over...none of us could figure out what they were saying. We found the translator and asked them to come where we were, to figure what it was they wanted from me. They were asking me to take their daughter to America. I'm pretty sure my heart broke into a million pieces.

Sometimes, it's just good to remember. To relive the memories that had a part in changing your heart...to opening your eyes to the desperation and heartbreak around the world.

I never want to forget their faces.

"When Jesus saw this, he was indignant. He said to them, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. ¹I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it." And he took the children in his arms, put his hands on them and blessed them." --Matthew 10:14-16

Dreaming In Snowflakes...

Canon EOS 20D | 1/160s | f /6.3 | ISO 400

"Welcome to Narnia..."

This morning I woke up in the mood for spring. So I started editing some portraits I had of tulips, but I was rudely pulled out of my reverie. Why? Oh, a few inches of snow. And then some {to be expected}. So forget dreaming of flip flops, Ice Cream and pedicures...

I'll settle for french press coffee, making some headway in my stack of books (be sure to check out the link to my latest challenge!)...and probably a snow fight or two with my hunk.

So, what do you like to do to combat the winter blues?

***

Exercise Log for today:

20 Minute Cardio Dance Workout
Abs: Crunch (3 sets of 15), Backward Crunch (3 sets of 15), Bicycle (1 set 100), Boat Position (2 sets of 12)
Arms: Arm Curl (3 sets of 15), Shoulder to Side Raise (3 sets of 15), Overhead Press (3 sets of 15), Pilates Push Up (1 set of 12)

Romance, and all that mushy stuff...

February is one of my favorite months. Not only is it the month of all things Pink, Red, and Chocolate...it's my birthday month!

But, I think I got one of my valentines presents early...yesterday, I got up at 6 am, jumped into my jeans and a t'shirt to head out the door. I was taking Josh to meet someone, so I didn't bother to put on any makeup. My hair was a mess...and well I was pretty much still half asleep. But, you know what?? Josh took one look at me as I headed out the door, and said "Babe, you are so cute early in the morning"... talk about feeling truly beautiful!! Gotta love the romance. ;-)

I love him. I do, I do...a million times over!

What about you? Do you love the month of love? If so, what has been your best valentines?

***

Exercise:

30 Minute Pilates Workout
Abs: Crunches, Leg Cruches, Side Twists, (3 sets of 15 for all)

Totally gone take the weekend off, I'm needing it!

Welp, I'm off to bake up a nice dish of fudge brownies... :D

Date Nights, and such.

We had an impromptu date night this week...

Random dancing in the kitchen...pesto for dinner with Starbucks for dessert. We went home to play scrabble (Josh won!), and finished the night off with an old rerun of Murder She Wrote. We laughed the night away...and I loved every single second. <3

I love dates night. Where we just do what we feel like, and enjoy each other. It's the best.

What's your favorite date night combo?

**

Actually made myself stay longer on the track at the gym. Sigh...I just get so bored! Thank the Lord for my Ipod!! :D

3 Miles on the track
Leg Exercise: Leg Curls, Squats, Lunges, and Side Lifts...all in 3 sets of 15

A journey worth a thousand words...

"Sunset over Paris"

Canon 20D |1/1000s | f 7.1 | ISO 400

I love photography. For those of you who may not know, I studied photography for years. Beginning with a local college class, I eventually enrolled in a series of classes through IPS (a Christian photography school located in Dallas. Learn more here.). Over several years time I worked on my portofolio, with everything from children portraits sessions to weddings to travel photography. I found my passion was often in weddings and missions/travel related photography. I find them a challenge, and love to continue learning. I eventually put together a "faces of hope" composition, documenting the children of Guatemala, and photographed over 10 weddings...all just friends, people that I wanted to bless my work with (or least hoped too!).

However, to make a long story short, I took a job that was photography related. Frankly, it ended up being the worst possible situation for me. Before I knew it, I'd lost the passion I once had, and found myself bitter. Bitter in every form you can imagine. I eventually moved on. My camera started collecting dust...as well as my skills.

But, in an effort to return to my "first love" of photography, I've been taking pictures here and there, and learning new editing techniques with Photoshop (thanks hubby!). So in the months to come, I hope to set aside time each week to focus on my work, and restore what I lost...

Then again, I never really lost it. It was all His to begin with. Learning to refocus my heart, my camera, and my work...for His glory. Maybe this time I won't be so easily persuaded to set the camera aside. <3

***

Workouts continue full force!

12 Minute Interval Run on Treadmill (walk 2 min/jog 1)
20 minute cardio workout (aerobics & basic kick boxing move incorporated..loved it!)
Abs: Crunch (2 sets of 30), Backwards/Leg Crunch (2 sets of 30), Side Twist (2 sets of 30), Bicycle ( 2 sets of 70)

Where Art & Coffee Colide

Friday morning, we woke up to this:

Snow & Ice.

But, it didn't hinder out plans. We loaded up the car and headed south to Texas, enjoying some good times with our friends Mark and Namoi...

Highlights of the trip were visits to the Dallas Museum of Art, my favorite coffee shop in all the world, Opening Bell, and some of the most amazing Sushi we've had to date...at Wild Sushi.

Seriously...absolutely amazing sushi. I think it's worth moving to Dallas for. Think I can talk the hubby into it? Hmmm... ;-)

Then there was the side trip to Opening Bell, my favorite coffee shop that I've yet to visit. An underground coffee shop, with the most eclectic decor ever. Just the fact that it is underground should clue you into how amazing this place is...a truly fantastic weekend with some great friends...they also took us out for Korean BBQ....our first time ever. LOOOOOVED it!

**happiness**

Workouts continue on...It's pretty much amazing how much more sore I become with each passing day. One of these days, I'm scared I won't be able to move. HA. I found some pretty crazy workout videos that I'm enjoying even though it's a bit on the painful side (okay, maybe not painful...but it's putting me to the test, ha!)

Todays workout:

30 Minute Pilates Full Body Workout
20 Minute Cardio Dance Workout
Arms: Arm curl (2 sets of 50), Side Raise (2 sets of 10), Lat Push (2 sets of 25)

Well, I'm off to clean this house from head to toe...er...top to bottom...er whatever works for you. :P

My Book Challanges!

My 2010 Reading List:

Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers
Against All Odds by Irene Hunt
My Sister's Keeper by Jodi Picoult
A Passion Most Pure by Julie Lessman
Sarah, Plain and Tall by Patricia MacLachlan
The Negotiator by Dee Henderson
Savannah From Savannah by Denise Hildreth
Gathering Blue by Lois Lowry
Breaking Dawn by S. Meyer
Thank You, Jeeves by P.G. Wodehouse
Esther's Gift by Jan Karon
The Englisher by Beverly Lewis
The Brethren by Beverly Lewis
Alice In Wonderland Lewis Carroll
The Wide Window By Lemony Snicket
And Both Were Young by Madeline L'Engle
The Tale of Benjamin Bunny by Beatrix Potter
White Christmas Pie by Wanda Brunstetter
The Miserable Mill by Lemony Snicket
Number The Stars by Louis Lowry
A Woman's Wartime Journal by Dolly Sumner Lunt Burge
Curious George At The Railroad Station by Rey
Curious George Goes To A Costume Party by Rey
Amelia Bedelia by Peggy Parish
Play Ball, Amelia Bedelia by Peggy Parish
If you Give A Pig A Pancake by Laura Numeroff
Madeline by Ludwig Bemelman
Where The Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak
Oh, The Places You'll Go! by Dr. Seuss
Corduroy by Don Freeman
Pelle's New Suit
Winnie the Pooh and Tigger Too
Bedtime for Frances by Russell Hoban
I Promise I'll Find You by Heather Patricia Ward
Tootle by Gertrude Crampton
Angelina Ballerina by Katharine Holabird
Angelina and Alice by Katharine Holabird
It Was A Short Summer, Charlie Brown by Charlem M Schulz
Madeline's Rescue by Ludwig Bemelmans
Junk Day On Juniper Street by Lilian Moore
Froggy's Baby Sister by Jonathan London
Block City by Robert Louis Stevenson
The Christmas Blessing by Donna VanLiere
The Christmas Hope by Donna VanLiere
The Angels of Morgan Hill by Donna VanLiere
A Charlie Brown Christmas by Charles M. Schulz
How The Ginch Stole Christmas by Dr. Seuss
You're Only Old Once! by Dr. Seuss