I love Nordstrom. I need to go on record and say that before I post the following rant that may lead you to believe otherwise. You see, I am (currently, at least slightly, perhaps unfairly) disappointed in Nordstrom! I am a bridesmaid in a wedding this summer and when the bride sent me a Nordstrom link to look at the front running dress, I was immediately excited. Bridesmaids dresses are usually a challenge (honestly, they are almost never fun), but I love it when the bride picks a great store instead of forcing us into the bridal salon experience where chances are you're buying something overpriced, in a bigger size than you'd like, knowing you'll literally never wear it again. I don't particularly like kissing hundreds of dollars goodbye. Nordstrom seemed so very hopeful and my heart soared. Momentarily. The disappointment set in when I clicked on the potential dress and there was a price range displayed: $189 - $240. Instantly I knew that could only mean one thing - plus size dresses are $51 more expensive. Now don't get me wrong, I understand there is some extra fabric required for a larger dress, but is it $51 worth of "extra" fabric...AND if that logic is accurate, then why isn't a size 2 less expensive than a size 16? Honestly. As if it isn't bad enough that I have to BE the fat bridesmaid, I also have to pay a hefty penalty fee on the bridesmaid dress? I am offended, there is just no way around it. I bought a size 18 at David's Bridal for Emily's wedding so I am hopeful that maybe I'll fit into the regular size 18 at Nordstrom and not have to pay the $240 price, but I suppose we'll have to wait and see when we try them on. The good news is that the dress looks good on skinny girls and plus size girls alike, and for that I shall say thank you to the bride!
Friday, January 31, 2014
the day nordys let me down
I love Nordstrom. I need to go on record and say that before I post the following rant that may lead you to believe otherwise. You see, I am (currently, at least slightly, perhaps unfairly) disappointed in Nordstrom! I am a bridesmaid in a wedding this summer and when the bride sent me a Nordstrom link to look at the front running dress, I was immediately excited. Bridesmaids dresses are usually a challenge (honestly, they are almost never fun), but I love it when the bride picks a great store instead of forcing us into the bridal salon experience where chances are you're buying something overpriced, in a bigger size than you'd like, knowing you'll literally never wear it again. I don't particularly like kissing hundreds of dollars goodbye. Nordstrom seemed so very hopeful and my heart soared. Momentarily. The disappointment set in when I clicked on the potential dress and there was a price range displayed: $189 - $240. Instantly I knew that could only mean one thing - plus size dresses are $51 more expensive. Now don't get me wrong, I understand there is some extra fabric required for a larger dress, but is it $51 worth of "extra" fabric...AND if that logic is accurate, then why isn't a size 2 less expensive than a size 16? Honestly. As if it isn't bad enough that I have to BE the fat bridesmaid, I also have to pay a hefty penalty fee on the bridesmaid dress? I am offended, there is just no way around it. I bought a size 18 at David's Bridal for Emily's wedding so I am hopeful that maybe I'll fit into the regular size 18 at Nordstrom and not have to pay the $240 price, but I suppose we'll have to wait and see when we try them on. The good news is that the dress looks good on skinny girls and plus size girls alike, and for that I shall say thank you to the bride!
Monday, January 27, 2014
the grammys
Last night was the Grammy Awards...an epic night for American music. However, I haven't watched them yet because I decided I would rather watch The Bachelor Wedding (an epic night for women everywhere and Chris Harrison) with my best, Carrie. She enticed me with cookies and cute children that needed to be cuddled - it wasn't really even a question! After Sean and Catherine were blissfully wed (Sean's Dad was just darling as the Officiant - I think he was my favorite part, maybe other than Catherine's dress which was divine), I did catch about 2 minutes of Lorde's performance and I just don't understand what happened to her nails...I don't think it counts as a manicure if the entire tip of your finger is painted black...strange-sauce! Anyway, I will probably watch the Grammy's eventually - or at least fast forward through them so I can see TSWIFT perform (love her!) but I had to look at the red carpet pics. I am (and forever will be) a total sucker for a red carpet. My favorite looks were all neutrals with a bit of glitz. Taylor takes the lead in her stunning gold strapless dress with a silver sparkle overlay. Perfection. I also loved Sarah Hyland (one of TSwift's real life friends and actress in Modern Family) in her black and white short dress! Fun and fancy while still looking young and feminine - these girls are babies after all (even if they are literally the rich and famous). I don't know if Anna Kendrick's dress is my favorite - but I just love her so I thought I'd throw her some blog love and Kacey Musgraves just looks phenomenal. Again, I'm not sure I love the dress it feels a little more Academy Awards than Grammys, and the layered ruffle might be a bit too much, but the air of class and sophistication is bar none and I love her manicure. Nails will win me over every time. There is quite a lull between the Grammy's and the Oscars, so I will have to wait a long time until the next red carpet...but praise the Lord it is a really good one! Until then, I will write ridiculousness and watch Oscar nominated films...
Friday, January 24, 2014
its friday, friday...
Well, another week has come and gone...
Sometimes it seems like once you enter adulthood, you basically live for the weekend - you go through the motions Monday - Thursday eagerly anticipating the arrival of Friday and the hope of spare time to do with as you please. I try to make every day count on some level, but I admit that weekends hold some allure that a workday just cannot. So praise the Lord that it is Friday and the weekend is upon us! Here are five of my favorite moments this week...
1. I rocked this absolutely fantastic and amazingly adorable double tassel bracelet in navy and hot pink from Wrist Soiree. Those tassels made me happy all day. Literally. I'm a huge fan of accessories, so they are pretty much always my favorite part of the week!
2. I spent Saturday and Sunday in San Elijo with my parents - the weather was a dream and the sunsets were breathtakingly gorgeous. I kept hearing the Sara Bareilles song "Chasing the Sun" playing in my head - the lyrics never fail to inspire me to look for the brightness of life and live it to the fullest... "You said, remember that life is, not meant to be wasted - we can always be chasing the sun. So fill up your lungs and just run. All we can do is try and live like we're still alive." There is something truly awe-inspiring about the vastness of creation and the power of our God. Finding that moment of still and quiet to truly soak it in was refreshing to my soul.
3. My childhood best friends Anna Garcia and Jenny Linthicum were also staying with their parents at the beach (beach camping has been part of our lives for as long as we can remember) so we got to spend some quality time together. We have been friends forever, so afternoon walks to Starbucks, painting our nails, and sitting around the campfire together are moments of perfection.
4. I took this random selfie and when I looked at it again, it totally looks like a glamor shot - which CRACKS ME UP! I bet those pictures are still proudly displayed on someone's mantle somewhere! I sent this via text to a few friends and had a really good laugh.
5. I went to see "her" with the Clark family. We are all on track to see all the Oscar nominated movies before March 02 and "her" was still on the list. I enjoyed the film(although it was perhaps one of the weirdest movies I've ever seen) and it left me contemplating, which is always a good sign. The basis of the story revolves around a man who falls in love with his operating system - and very soon you realize everyone is interacting more with their operating systems than with people. It's an interesting parallel to our society where social media has taken on a life of its own and truly controls and commands our presence in a lot of ways. I'm really glad I still have friends to see movies with - and that I'm not just in my head! Sounds like a really lonely and half-baked existence.
Sometimes it seems like once you enter adulthood, you basically live for the weekend - you go through the motions Monday - Thursday eagerly anticipating the arrival of Friday and the hope of spare time to do with as you please. I try to make every day count on some level, but I admit that weekends hold some allure that a workday just cannot. So praise the Lord that it is Friday and the weekend is upon us! Here are five of my favorite moments this week...
2. I spent Saturday and Sunday in San Elijo with my parents - the weather was a dream and the sunsets were breathtakingly gorgeous. I kept hearing the Sara Bareilles song "Chasing the Sun" playing in my head - the lyrics never fail to inspire me to look for the brightness of life and live it to the fullest... "You said, remember that life is, not meant to be wasted - we can always be chasing the sun. So fill up your lungs and just run. All we can do is try and live like we're still alive." There is something truly awe-inspiring about the vastness of creation and the power of our God. Finding that moment of still and quiet to truly soak it in was refreshing to my soul.
3. My childhood best friends Anna Garcia and Jenny Linthicum were also staying with their parents at the beach (beach camping has been part of our lives for as long as we can remember) so we got to spend some quality time together. We have been friends forever, so afternoon walks to Starbucks, painting our nails, and sitting around the campfire together are moments of perfection.
4. I took this random selfie and when I looked at it again, it totally looks like a glamor shot - which CRACKS ME UP! I bet those pictures are still proudly displayed on someone's mantle somewhere! I sent this via text to a few friends and had a really good laugh.
5. I went to see "her" with the Clark family. We are all on track to see all the Oscar nominated movies before March 02 and "her" was still on the list. I enjoyed the film(although it was perhaps one of the weirdest movies I've ever seen) and it left me contemplating, which is always a good sign. The basis of the story revolves around a man who falls in love with his operating system - and very soon you realize everyone is interacting more with their operating systems than with people. It's an interesting parallel to our society where social media has taken on a life of its own and truly controls and commands our presence in a lot of ways. I'm really glad I still have friends to see movies with - and that I'm not just in my head! Sounds like a really lonely and half-baked existence.
Thursday, January 23, 2014
the oscar countdown has begun...
The Oscars are on March 02, which is in exactly 37 days (you can countdown to the minute the show begins online - visit the official Oscars website for all kinds of news and fun tid-bits!) and I have a lot of movies to watch! Nominations came out one week ago today and I have not been to the movies since! YIKES BIKES! There are a total of nine best picture nominees and I will do my very best to see all of them before Oscar day! The nominees are:
-- American Hustle
-- Captain Phillips
-- Dallas Buyers Club
-- Gravity
-- Her
-- Nebraska
-- Philomena
-- 12 Years a Slave
-- Philomena
-- Wolf of Wall Street
I saw American Hustle the weekend it came out - it stars Jennifer Lawrence, Christian Bale, Bradley Cooper and Amy Adams and was directed by the incredible David O. Russell. Liking it wasn't even in question - I knew I would love it. I did. And it has been winning awards all season! HAPPINESS!
I have also seen Gravity and Philomena. Gravity was much better than I expected and I give Sandra Bullock major credit for being able to sustain the film completely on her own - that is serious talent. Philomena was beautiful...the story was captivating and devastating and infuriating and heartbreaking and just absolutely beautiful.
Tonight I'm going to see Her and I can get Captain Phillips, Dallas Buyers Club, Nebraska, and 12 Years a Slave from Redbox meaning it is time to start planning for lots of movies nights at home! (Can we say Praise the Lord for Redbox by the way, I am so glad I can watch some of these movies for $1 instead of $15! AND I can bring whatever snacks I want into the "theatre"! AND I can wear jammies and cuddle under a blanket or push pause to use the restroom. AND I don't have to feel guilty checking my cell phone - THIS is the good life!) With all those watched, I'll be down to just Wolf of Wall Street and I need to get a date on the calendar to watch that with Gan (Leo is kind of her guy!). Ahhhh I do love the movies!
-- American Hustle
-- Captain Phillips
-- Dallas Buyers Club
-- Gravity
-- Her
-- Nebraska
-- Philomena
-- 12 Years a Slave
-- Philomena
-- Wolf of Wall Street
I saw American Hustle the weekend it came out - it stars Jennifer Lawrence, Christian Bale, Bradley Cooper and Amy Adams and was directed by the incredible David O. Russell. Liking it wasn't even in question - I knew I would love it. I did. And it has been winning awards all season! HAPPINESS!
I have also seen Gravity and Philomena. Gravity was much better than I expected and I give Sandra Bullock major credit for being able to sustain the film completely on her own - that is serious talent. Philomena was beautiful...the story was captivating and devastating and infuriating and heartbreaking and just absolutely beautiful.
Tonight I'm going to see Her and I can get Captain Phillips, Dallas Buyers Club, Nebraska, and 12 Years a Slave from Redbox meaning it is time to start planning for lots of movies nights at home! (Can we say Praise the Lord for Redbox by the way, I am so glad I can watch some of these movies for $1 instead of $15! AND I can bring whatever snacks I want into the "theatre"! AND I can wear jammies and cuddle under a blanket or push pause to use the restroom. AND I don't have to feel guilty checking my cell phone - THIS is the good life!) With all those watched, I'll be down to just Wolf of Wall Street and I need to get a date on the calendar to watch that with Gan (Leo is kind of her guy!). Ahhhh I do love the movies!
Wednesday, January 22, 2014
wedding season here I come...
Earlier this week my dear friend Rebecca (aka. Kenz) asked me to be a bridesmaid in her upcoming wedding (she wrote me a tender note on the INCREDIBLY GORGEOUS Rifle Paper Co. Will you be my Bridesmaid? card - swoon). I am so excited and I know we'll have a blast celebrating this joyous season together, but can I be honest for just a minute and say that weddings have a distinct way of making me (us?) feel incredibly insecure. Being a bridesmaid can reach into the depths and dredge up the worst feelings I've ever had about myself. As soon as I saw the front of the card my brain immediately went to dresses and if they would fit and flatter, if they'd even have my size, if the number on the tag would be a devastating blow to my self-esteem. With that thought firmly planted, I moved onto contemplating the other bridesmaids and how pretty they may be. I know comparison is the thief of joy, but fending off that enemy is an incredibly hard battle to fight and often I lose. Wedding days involve hundreds of pictures that will likely adorn the walls of a dear friend for years to come and I do not want to be the girl that ruins them all with my diagonal chin. I know I can have beautifully painted nails, but that just doesn't seem like the most valuable beauty trait on wedding day. I'm sure that for weeks leading up to the wedding I'll be doing hair-trials and testing different makeup combinations to ensure I look the very best I can. On wedding day, I will walk down the aisle with as much confidence as I can muster and hope that the photos turn out well, but I will have to squash that little seed of doubt repeatedly. And I hate that. I hate that I (we?) give in to all that. Kenz didn't ask me to be a bridesmaid because she thought I would look pretty in her pictures, she asked because we have shared life together, because we are friends that have laughed through great adventures and cried on hard days, we have made memories and been a constant presence throughout the current season of life - and THAT is not based on looks. We are so much more than what size dress we wear, how good our hair looks, or how perfectly our makeup is applied. This wedding season, I'm going to do my darndest to embrace the beautiful I know I am, I'm going to take pictures with Kenz and my Gan (she is also a bridesmaid, HELLO GOOD TIMES) and cherish the memories without letting the little seed of doubt steal my joy. I am going to overcome my inner critic and just celebrate...WEDDING SEASON HERE I COME!
Tuesday, January 21, 2014
my january music obsession...
Monday, January 20, 2014
sag awards
Awards Season is going strong and making me one happy lady! I have LOVED getting to watch a red carpet virtually every week! SO FUN! The SAG awards are always fun because it is actors celebrating actors. The red carpet at the globes was definitely more spectacular overall, but I found several dresses to love and there were plenty of laugh-worthy moments. I think my overall best dressed has to go to Hannah Simone. She stepped out of the car and I audibly gasped. I loved the grace and sophistication of her dress coupled with the subtle makeup and classy hair. She was breath-taking. Michelle Dockery also looked remarkably classy in her tuxedo inspired dress with a simple twisted pony and soft side bang. Elisabeth Moss rocked the bright red strapless and Lupita Nyong'o picked the perfect color for her skin tone. My final pick went to Jennifer Lawrence who wore a fantastically fun dress - let's be honest - it has sequins - and anything with sequins is a WIN! Plus, she is just my fav and always deserves a little blog love! Looking froward to the Grammy's this weekend - bring on the TSWIFT!
Friday, January 17, 2014
high 5 for friday
I'm linking up with lauren elizabeth because it is...high 5 for friday! Here are 5 of my best moments from the week...
1. I rocked this amazing necklace that Gan gave me for Christmas - it is gold and has fringe - could a girl ask for anything more. SASSY but still CLASSY is my favorite! Plus I wore it with this polka dot dress that I absolutely LOVE!
2. I spent an evening at the theatre with my sweet friend Justine - we saw Beauty and the Beast and it was fantastic. Justine kept asking me if they were actually singing or if there was a soundtrack - she just couldn't believe it was all live. We saturated in the arts and became more cultured all while feeling fancy in our dresses and heels. I love all things Broadway, so it was a sure win - plus we had chickfila for dinner, and there really isn't much better than chickfila!
3. Bachelor night with my best bud Rory James and cuddles in abundance. I think I am gonna love being a mama someday - but I'm treasuring being aunt shell for now!
4. I experienced eatitalian. Thin crust pizza, homemade pasta, gelato and pastries = happy girl.
5. I raised my glass and toasted a long-term client who has become a treasured friend through our years working together. Amanda and I have spent countless hours together working on projects, sitting in meetings, and sharing life on a daily basis. She is headed to San Francisco for a whole new adventure and I wish her nothing but the best; however, I will miss her terribly and shed a tear (or two) as I said goodbye.
1. I rocked this amazing necklace that Gan gave me for Christmas - it is gold and has fringe - could a girl ask for anything more. SASSY but still CLASSY is my favorite! Plus I wore it with this polka dot dress that I absolutely LOVE!
2. I spent an evening at the theatre with my sweet friend Justine - we saw Beauty and the Beast and it was fantastic. Justine kept asking me if they were actually singing or if there was a soundtrack - she just couldn't believe it was all live. We saturated in the arts and became more cultured all while feeling fancy in our dresses and heels. I love all things Broadway, so it was a sure win - plus we had chickfila for dinner, and there really isn't much better than chickfila!
3. Bachelor night with my best bud Rory James and cuddles in abundance. I think I am gonna love being a mama someday - but I'm treasuring being aunt shell for now!
4. I experienced eatitalian. Thin crust pizza, homemade pasta, gelato and pastries = happy girl.
5. I raised my glass and toasted a long-term client who has become a treasured friend through our years working together. Amanda and I have spent countless hours together working on projects, sitting in meetings, and sharing life on a daily basis. She is headed to San Francisco for a whole new adventure and I wish her nothing but the best; however, I will miss her terribly and shed a tear (or two) as I said goodbye.
critics choice movie awards
Last night was the Critics Choice Movie Awards and I have to admit I was not very impressed. In fact, I ended up changing the channel before the show was even over. There was no red carpet pre-show, the host was terrible, and Jennifer Lawrence wasn't there. Nevertheless, I'm an award show junkie and gave it my best try! This morning I glanced through all the dresses and though many of my favorite stars were not present, there were three stand-out dresses*! The Critics Choice Awards are a formal event, but it's not classified as black-tie so the dresses and hair definitely reflected that. All my best dressed votes went to ladies adorned in black and white, which is a bit odd since I'm usually a bright and bold girl. Julia Roberts looked fantastic - and I absolutely LOVED her hair - but I think Margot Robbie takes the cake with her amazing black lace pantsuit (*a pantsuit doesn't really count as a dress, but you totally get what I mean, right?!) and messy wave blonde locks. I could literally never pull that look off, but she ROCKED it! The SAG awards this weekend and I have no doubt more of my favs will be on the red carpet dressed to the nines and looking absolutely stunning! Can't wait!
Wednesday, January 15, 2014
sensational in sydney
This morning I hit pan on my very favorite eye shadow palette of all time. I am basically distraught. I have been wearing Stila Sensational in Sydney virtually every day for the past year. I've also used it as a base for wedding eyes several times and it is perfection. The shades are perfect, the amount of shimmer is perfect, the length of wear is perfect. I am going to be lost without it. According to google shopping, "Your search - stila stylish in sydney - did not match any shopping results." Today is a sad day.
Tuesday, January 14, 2014
a glimpse of a dream
Monday night is Bachelor night...a crazy group of fantastic women bathed in the sweet scents of acetone and nail polish alongside plenty of chocolate gathered in front of a tv debating the annoyance level of women we have never met. It's the perfect escape from reality and if we're honest, these women make us feel well adjusted and "normal". Last night we watched at Carrie's house. I came early to get in some good Izzy snuggles before she was "sentenced to bedtime" and virtually melted when I walked in the door and she smiled, pointed, and said "aunt shell". She knows me. Recognizes me. Loves me. After the show was over and ballots had been submitted for the Fantasy Bachelor Pool, the ladies went home and Carrie and I settled into the couch for some Real Housewives of Beverly Hills best friend time and snuggles with Rory James. Rory and I cuddled for over an hour, he fell asleep in my arms and made the best baby noises - he was happy - comfortable - right where he wanted to be. Much too soon it was time to say goodbye. I stood up and caught a glimpse of myself with Rory still asleep in my arms in the mirror. Instantaneously the tears welled up. I looked like a mommy. The night had turned to the wee hours of the morning and I was awake and cuddling the sweetest bundle of joy. The ache was deep as I stared at my dream in that mirror. In the last few years I have watched almost all of my friends find love and get married, I've watched many of them have babies, and there are days that I feel like life has moved on without me. Like somehow everyone I care about has moved to the next chapter and I've been left behind. As I looked at my reflection I wondered if I would ever actually be that mama loving on her babe in the middle of the night. If that dream will ever become a reality for me. Real life is hard and sometimes it hurts. I'm so thankful to be aunt shell and blessed to have bitties to love on. However, deep down there is a yearning to love my own children and soon. So until then, I will continue to find joy in loving on the littles God has put in my life and hope that one day I will look into a mirror and see a reflection that is more than just a dream...and no, I will not be going on the bachelor to find true love...
Monday, January 13, 2014
the golden globes
Sunday, January 12 brought us the 71st Annual Golden Globe Awards. There were hours of red carpet coverage and I spent the afternoon comfy on my couch while watching Ryan Seacrest and Guiliana Rancic interviewed the stars. My favorite red carpet moment was undoubtedly when Ryan was talking to Taylor Swift (who looked absolutely fantastic by the way) and Jennifer Lawrence turned into a total creeper and photo bombed the interview while walking up the stairs. Apparently JLaw and TSwift are friends, so they shared a little moment on the platform and then hugged. It was darling (and yes, I definitely wished that I was ALSO their friend - they send each other text messages - I totally want in on that! I think they'd really like me - I'm totally fun!). There was a lot of gorgeousness and a few near disasters, but overall beauty was in abundance and radiance overwhelmed the Beverly Hilton as celebrities accepted awards with unparalleled enthusiasm.
Designers like Dior, Versace, Tom Ford, Zac Posen, Burberry, Carolina Herrera and more swept the runway with the latest trends and custom designed gowns. I picked ten gorgeous girls for my best dressed list and I honestly would be hard-pressed to pick an absolute winner. These ladies looked absolutely fabulous from head to toe!
Unfortunately, the incredibly talented and ridiculously hilarious Jennifer Lawrence did not make my best dressed list. However, her makeup and nails were incredible and she won the globe for best supporting actress in a motion picture. She still TOTALLY ROCKS and remains my top pick for "actress I wish I was friends with in real life".
PS. if you just want to laugh about how much I love award season, check out 20 Signs You're Obsessed with Award Season at least 10 of them ring true!
Thursday the Oscar Nominations will be announced and then this weekend is the SAG awards! THERE IS SO MUCH FUN STILL TO BE HAD! Cheers!
Designers like Dior, Versace, Tom Ford, Zac Posen, Burberry, Carolina Herrera and more swept the runway with the latest trends and custom designed gowns. I picked ten gorgeous girls for my best dressed list and I honestly would be hard-pressed to pick an absolute winner. These ladies looked absolutely fabulous from head to toe!
Unfortunately, the incredibly talented and ridiculously hilarious Jennifer Lawrence did not make my best dressed list. However, her makeup and nails were incredible and she won the globe for best supporting actress in a motion picture. She still TOTALLY ROCKS and remains my top pick for "actress I wish I was friends with in real life". Thursday the Oscar Nominations will be announced and then this weekend is the SAG awards! THERE IS SO MUCH FUN STILL TO BE HAD! Cheers!
Sunday, January 12, 2014
books 2, 3, 4...check
Because it is award season (the Golden Globes are TONIGHT - my DVR is going to be really busy catching the countdown to the red carpet, the actual red carpet, the globes, and the E! after party - praise the Lord I can fast forward through the commercials!) I have been going to the movies more than usual and thus seeing a lot of previews for movies coming out in 2014. I had heard some buzz regarding the Divergent series, but once I saw the preview I knew I had to read them and QUICK since the movie comes out on March 21.Over the last 8 days I completed the entire series. It was over 1,500 pages of action and adventure coupled with horrifying events, tragic discoveries, unending disappointments, harrowing questions, and determined love. The series takes place in a futuristic version of Chicago, which is unlike and very like the city we know and love; however, the governmental structure is quite different. There are five (5) factions each revering and upholding a specific virtue - Abnegation: selflessness, Erudite: knowledge, Dauntless: bravery, Candor: honesty, Amity: peace. At age 16 each student is required to participate in an aptitude test that reveals which faction he / she truly identifies with; but for Beatrice Prior, the results were inconclusive. Beatrice already knew she was different than her family, but now it was clear that she was different than most everyone else as well. As the political posture in the city begins to change and significant threats are posed, Beatrice must decide who she is, what she stands for, and how she is going to fight.
I thoroughly enjoyed the series. It is really easy reading and has a compelling plot that keeps you reading "just one more chapter". The characters are complicated and multi-faceted making them believable and engaging. I was a bit disappointed with the ending, but would definitely recommend the series and am looking forward to the movie! If you're a true fan, check out the blog of the author, Veronica Roth.
Friday, January 10, 2014
the great lipventure
In 2013 I explored the great unknown and started wearing lipstick. I had so much fun trying new colors and looked to experts (aka. beauty bloggers) like Kate at the small things blog and Estee at essie-button for the best brands and colors to wear. I am a drug-store lipstick girl for sure. I don't like to spend more than $10 especially considering you cannot KNOW if it will work with your skin-tone, hair color, wardrobe, etc.. Target is great with returns and will let you try and color and still bring it back. OH HOW I LOVE TARGET. Overall I'd say my lipventure was a great success and think I can pull off most colors. Like anything else, choosing confidence even when you don't feel it internally is key. I'm going to continue trying new shades and rocking the bold lip whenever appropriate in 2014 - so my lipventure continues on...wanna join me???
Most often reached for from my collection... anything Sonia Kashuk and Revlon (love a good lip butter and the just bitten kissable balm stains) so if you're gonna venture out, I say start there!
Thursday, January 9, 2014
people's choice awards
Last night was the very first award show of the season - The People's Choice Awards. It is definitely a more casual event and the celebrities present are a mixed bag as the categories, nominations, and winners are all selected by viewer votes...thus the reason there are winners in categories like "Favorite On-Screen Chemistry" (that went to Ian Somerhalder and Nina Dobrev, just for the record). In my opinion, it is a night to wear something a bit more adventurous and fun and my best dressed picks definitely reflect that.
Kaley Cuoco takes my top spot in her darling black and blue dress with giant flower embellishments. She looked put together but not stuffy the girl has the personality to pull off anything! Her speech was also adorable as she praised her {very} new husband, Ryan Sweetings. He accompanied her to the event and they just seem over the moon happy! Other favorites were Melissa Rauch in neon pink, Allison Williams in a bold and somewhat architectural blue and white number, and Nina Dobrev in black with plenty of sparkle.
Finally I had to throw in this pic of my college friend, Brent Kutzle
and One Republic - a featured musical guest and winner of "Favorite
Band". I went to CBU and Brent and I were in the University Choir and
Orchestra together. Now he is a big-shot musician - playing guitar, singing, traveling the WORLD, meeting celebs (perhaps BEING a celeb) so seeing him on tv
just makes me laugh!
Kaley Cuoco takes my top spot in her darling black and blue dress with giant flower embellishments. She looked put together but not stuffy the girl has the personality to pull off anything! Her speech was also adorable as she praised her {very} new husband, Ryan Sweetings. He accompanied her to the event and they just seem over the moon happy! Other favorites were Melissa Rauch in neon pink, Allison Williams in a bold and somewhat architectural blue and white number, and Nina Dobrev in black with plenty of sparkle.
Finally I had to throw in this pic of my college friend, Brent Kutzle
and One Republic - a featured musical guest and winner of "Favorite
Band". I went to CBU and Brent and I were in the University Choir and
Orchestra together. Now he is a big-shot musician - playing guitar, singing, traveling the WORLD, meeting celebs (perhaps BEING a celeb) so seeing him on tv
just makes me laugh!
Wednesday, January 8, 2014
nail obsessed
I have a very strict "no naked nails" policy. I paint my nails on a weekly basis and am always admiring the gorgeous colors other people are rocking. Last week my friend Anna was wearing a great pink that I just adored, so I took a cue from her book and painted mine in a similar fashion this week. I'm wearing Essie Big Spender with a party nail in Jazzy Jubilant. Big Spender is a deep pink with a dark undertone which is perfect for winter and Jazzy Jubilant is a silver based glitter with flecks of green and pink. I am keeping the party nail alive in 2014 - somehow that sparkle just feels RIGHT for me! Every girl needs a little confetti in her life! Cheers!
Tuesday, January 7, 2014
book 1...check
I have always loved to read. As a child I was especially fond of reading because it earned me personal pan pizzas, which in the Swope family, were an extremely rare and ridiculously special treat. I don't actually even like pizza that much - but I still remember the feeling of excitement and anticipation when I got to bring one home for dinner. I decided that I need to read more in 2014. I really love TV and it often distracts me from investing time in a good book, but I'm making a concerted effort to prioritize literature. I will be posting little "reviews" (if you can actually call them that) when I finish a book...so here is the VERY FIRST ONE!
Dark Places by Gillian Flynn
I'm not sure I can wholeheartedly recommend this book. Don't get me wrong, it was a fascinating read and I thoroughly enjoyed it. However, as the title implies, it is dark and somewhat horrifying. The book is intriguing and keeps you hanging on plot points until the very end. It is twisted and unpredictable. Overall the story has some redemption, but it is quite heavy and not for the easily disturbed. The author, Gillian Flynn, also wrote Gone Girl - a hugely popular book that is now being turned into a movie (to be released in October - starring Ben Affleck in case you were wondering). I read Gone Girl in 2013 and absolutely loved it, if you are wanting to try her on for style, I would start there.
Dark Places by Gillian Flynn
I'm not sure I can wholeheartedly recommend this book. Don't get me wrong, it was a fascinating read and I thoroughly enjoyed it. However, as the title implies, it is dark and somewhat horrifying. The book is intriguing and keeps you hanging on plot points until the very end. It is twisted and unpredictable. Overall the story has some redemption, but it is quite heavy and not for the easily disturbed. The author, Gillian Flynn, also wrote Gone Girl - a hugely popular book that is now being turned into a movie (to be released in October - starring Ben Affleck in case you were wondering). I read Gone Girl in 2013 and absolutely loved it, if you are wanting to try her on for style, I would start there.
Monday, January 6, 2014
red carpet madness
This week kicks off AWARD season – and if you know me at all
– you know I LIVE FOR THIS STUFF! I think it is so fun to watch the red carpet
and oogle over the incredible dresses, jewels, and manicures! Some dresses are
swoon worthy and others are an absolute disaster, but deciding which is which
is left entirely to the eye-of-the-beholder. The hosts for the major award shows this year
are FANTASTIC. First up is the People’s Choice Awards hosted by Beth Behrs and
Kat Dennings from 2 Broke Girls, then we get treated to the hilarious Tina Fey
and Amy Poehler for the Golden Globes, and they top the season off with Ellen
Degeneres hosting the Oscars. I JUST CANNOT WAIT. In anticipation for the
events, I have begun attempting to catch as many potentially nominated films as
possible. I won't have an official Oscar Nominee So far I have only made it to four (4) of the films nominated for a
globe (I had to see Hunger Games…twice…AND Saving Mr. Banks with the family), but
they were all FANTASTIC. Cheers to many more and let the red carpet madness
BEGIN!
- - - - - - - - - -
For your convenience, I've included the schedule of shows I'll be (planning on) catching! Red carpet recaps and full low-down on my dress loved-it and hated-its are coming soon...
The 40th People’s Choice Awards 2014 – January 08 @9pm
The 71st Annual Golden Globes Awards 2014 – January 12 @8pm
19th Annual Critics’ Choice Movie Awards 2014 – January 16 @8pm
The 20th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards 2014 – January 18 @8pm
The 56th Annual Grammy Awards 2014 – January 26 @8pm
The 86th Annual Academy Awards (the Oscars) 2014 – March 02
The 71st Annual Golden Globes Awards 2014 – January 12 @8pm
19th Annual Critics’ Choice Movie Awards 2014 – January 16 @8pm
The 20th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards 2014 – January 18 @8pm
The 56th Annual Grammy Awards 2014 – January 26 @8pm
The 86th Annual Academy Awards (the Oscars) 2014 – March 02
Friday, January 3, 2014
a glimpse of 2013
2013 was a very busy year - I didn't blog very much and honestly, I find myself starting 2014 more exhausted than I have ever been before. Nevertheless, I am ready to strap on some sparkle and get this party started! Since there are literally four (4) posts to recount the entirety of 2013, perhaps I'll start 2014 by looking back...
January -
I said goodbye to my older brother, his lovely wife (my sister and one of my dear friends), and two darling nieces as they moved to their duty station in Oahu, Hawaii. Kevin is an officer in the United States Army serving in the Nurse Corps at Tripler Army Medical Center. 2013 was a constant lesson in loving from a distance...I learned a lot about flat rate shipping boxes and truly appreciated FaceTime as it allowed me to share special moments like Madeline's first day of Kindergarten and Charlotte's first steps. I miss my family more than I can possibly express, but they are together and thriving and for that I am truly thankful. Last night we spent about an hour chatting while they had dinner - it was a bit chaotic, but I love that with an ocean between us, we're still living life together.
March -
I spent my 28th birthday on the beautiful island of Oahu and experienced Hawaii for the very first time. We went to the Dole Pineapple Plantation, visited Pearl Harbor, went to a luau and oogled some lovely grass skirted ladies, we went to the beach and I attempted snorkeling, which was actually much harder than I remembered, we ate Hawaiin Ice, went bowling, watched fireworks from the beach, danced at the Barefoot bar and hiked Wiamea Falls. It was a wonderfully perfect birthday vacation with some of my very favorite people on earth. I'm turning 29 in March and hoping to go back! Paradise is calling my name!
April -
I flew to Texas to stand next to my friend Jenny Jackson as she married her true love. I was Jenny's mentor and Big Sister when she was in college in California and had no local family. It was truly my honor to love her well through that season of life and I was thrilled to be present for her big day. Her husband is wonderful and it did my friend heart so good to see her loved so wholly. That weekend was ALSO wonderful because I got to spend it with my dear friend (and previous roommate) Rachel and connected with the gorgeous and truly wonderful Joy Gadd who is now one of my closest and most encouraging friends.
June -
My littles came with their mama to visit for almost the entire month. I spent as much time in San Diego as possible to soak them up while they were in town. While they were here, my little M turned 5 and we got to celebrate her birthday with pink polka dot balloons a bounce house. I was so glad to be present for her actual birthday - it was gift.
One of the most meaningful weekends of the year was also in June. I served as a counselor at Teen Leadership Camp - a camp for children who have been part of the foster system. For three (3) days we escaped reality and went to the mountains where we played games, did crafts, ate camp food, zip-lined and stayed up way too late talking in our cabins. These kids have some of the most powerful stories I have ever heard. They are unseen in our communities and many them feel unwanted and unloved. One student said, "I wait all year to come to camp, because I am finally with my family". It was powerful and moved my soul. I hope to serve at TLC every single year of my future. I have always felt like God gave me the capacity to love His children, I've always had a heart for adoption - perhaps He is growing in me a heart for foster care as well.
July -
I got to throw my darling friend Shannon a baby shower - we were all eagerly anticipating the arrival of her very first - a baby girl. The shower was absolutely adorable! I did a lot of crafting and my efforts paid off for sure! Sienna Rose Key was born August 25 and she is beyond darling!
August -
My very first friend in Orange County - Rachel Reinert - got engaged to Andrew Smith. The two of them had been together off and on for years and I think I always knew they would end up getting married. I was thrilled to raise my glass to them at their engagement party and laugh the night away with one of the most energetic and enthusiastic couples I've ever known.
September -
AkinsParker Creative moved from Newport Beach to the historic Pacific Building in Downtown Santa Ana. My daily commute decreased from 27 miles each way to 28 miles TOTAL. I felt like I was living the dream. Our new offices are extremely interesting and definitely scream creative. I love our new home.
A bunch of my World Changers friends were also able to visit in September. The fun kicked off with Chad Hall - we went to see New Mexico State vs. The Bruins...NMS got annihilated, but my cousin Davis played a great game and it was really fun to be there cheering him on. Chris White and his lovely wife Bri arrived that same day - so we headed to LA for the Great Walking Tour. Wes Tate joined us halfway through the day and it was absolutely incredible to have four (4) World Changers from all over the country together in California. My heart surged. We were also able to visit Santa Monica and Chad and I snuck into Disneyland for a glimpse of the happiest place on earth. I will forever be a World Changer and the memories of my summers spent serving Christ with some of the greatest people He ever created will hopefully inspire me to love others well throughout my entire life.
October -
I got to throw a baby shower for my best friend Carrie. If you know me at all, you've probably heard about Izzy - she is Carrie's little girl and she survived a liver transplant at only 7 months old. Izzy is our little miracle and we love her beyond explanation and will forever be grateful for the time we've gotten to share with her. Now Izzy was going to be a big sister and it was my honor to throw a shower for Carrie and baby brother Rory. I threw the shower with one of the best friends a girl can have - Jenny Redmond. It was a relatively simple event with a bow-tie theme and hand-made bow-tie favors. My sewing machine got a serious workout making those bad boys! Rory James Sanchez was born on November 24. I was honored to be in the room when he made his appearance - he is darling and I'm already in love. Is there anything better than baby snuggles?
November -
Wedding celebrations for my best World Changers teammate officially began. I flew back to Missouri to throw Emily a bridal shower and bachelorette party. I didn't think I was going to be able to swing two trips initially, but I also didn't know Emily was planning to reimburse me for my flight to the wedding. After a bit of excited conversation, we decided to use the reimbursement money to fly me out for the weekend of festivities instead. It was amazingly wonderful to be there. I loved meeting all the gorgeous ladies in the bridal party and getting to be present for Emily. It is a little hard to be a long-distance Maid of Honor, but sharing that weekend definitely helped.
November also brought Rachel's bridal shower and bachelorette. Unfortunately Rachel and Emily booked their venues for the same date - they were both getting married on December 07. One in California and one in Missouri - it would be impossible to share in both. Rachel knew I wouldn't be able to attend when she booked her venue, but she still asked me to be a person of honor and it still broke my heart just a little bit to say no. I would have loved to have seen her become Mrs. Rachel Christine Smith. I was able to design their wedding invitation - so in some way - I was part of their day and a little piece of me will remain in their memories.
December -
The first weekend of December welcomed Emily's Wedding Weekend. I flew to St. Louis, Missouri on Wednesday, December 04 and all the fun began. It was a blustery weekend with lots of snow and freezing temperatures. It was absolutely stunning and since I don't see snow very often being a California girl, I loved it. It was one of my very favorite weekends of the year. Emily and I shared so many special moments and I can't describe the joy I felt standing next to her as she married Bryan. Emily and I served together over six (6) years ago and God did some thing really special with our hearts - He is the foundation of our friendship and regardless of how many miles separate us or how our lives change - we will be friends, sisters, and teammates. Michael Page was also on our team that summer and he made it to the wedding as well. It was a 24-hour reunion and it was perfect. Emily looked radiant as she walked down the aisle on her daddy's arm and their ceremony was personal and Christ-centered. Bryan is an incredible guy and Emily is a phenomenal girl. I wish them a lifetime of joy as they grow together and raise their family.
My little sister also graduated from Nursing School in December. She still has to pass the NCLEX and complete an RN to BSN program, but she has worked so hard and I am so proud of her for exhibiting such determination and drive in her educational career. I was able to be present for her pinning ceremony and both her parties and celebrated her big time!
Christmas was a bit strange this year since Kevin, Jamie, Madeline and Charlotte were unable to come home for the holidays. We saw them several times on FaceTime and via the interwebs, we opened all our presents together. However, I longed for hugs and wished I could see those sweet girls bouncing off the walls at Grandma and Grandpa's house. Nevertheless, I am thankful for family and blessed by the many generous gifts I received. It was a simpler holiday than usual, but I am learning to appreciate the quieter life.
This year also held lots of normal adventures- Megan and I got to spend several weekends together both in Orange County and in La Quinta where she now lives...we celebrated award shows, watched movies (even one in the cemetery), ate gluten free treats, saw the world's worst production of Little Women, drank a lot of coffee, shopped, thrifted and enjoyed as many moments as possible. I began my "career" in ushering for a local theatre and saw as many Broadway productions as I could including Funny Girl, Legally Blonde, Wicked, and Hairspray. I also went to the ballet and saw Sleeping Beauty (the vampire version) with great friends. My grandma turned 96 this year and is as hilarious as ever - I just love her. Izzy turned 2 and we celebrated with a Minnie Mouse pizza party - she is an absolute delight. I had lots of coffee dates with both Anna and Jenny - my childhood best friends and ate brunch at Chapter One with Jenny and Carrie as often as possible. I became friends with Ally Stepp and Carrie McQuaid, loved dinner dates with my roommate Sarah, went to breakfast more times than I can count and worked a lot. Mindy Taylor got engaged and so did Rebecca MacKenzie so it looks like 2014 will have more wedding bliss in store as well as LOTS more babies! I have much to look forward to and much to be thankful for.
January -
I said goodbye to my older brother, his lovely wife (my sister and one of my dear friends), and two darling nieces as they moved to their duty station in Oahu, Hawaii. Kevin is an officer in the United States Army serving in the Nurse Corps at Tripler Army Medical Center. 2013 was a constant lesson in loving from a distance...I learned a lot about flat rate shipping boxes and truly appreciated FaceTime as it allowed me to share special moments like Madeline's first day of Kindergarten and Charlotte's first steps. I miss my family more than I can possibly express, but they are together and thriving and for that I am truly thankful. Last night we spent about an hour chatting while they had dinner - it was a bit chaotic, but I love that with an ocean between us, we're still living life together.
March -
I spent my 28th birthday on the beautiful island of Oahu and experienced Hawaii for the very first time. We went to the Dole Pineapple Plantation, visited Pearl Harbor, went to a luau and oogled some lovely grass skirted ladies, we went to the beach and I attempted snorkeling, which was actually much harder than I remembered, we ate Hawaiin Ice, went bowling, watched fireworks from the beach, danced at the Barefoot bar and hiked Wiamea Falls. It was a wonderfully perfect birthday vacation with some of my very favorite people on earth. I'm turning 29 in March and hoping to go back! Paradise is calling my name!
April -
I flew to Texas to stand next to my friend Jenny Jackson as she married her true love. I was Jenny's mentor and Big Sister when she was in college in California and had no local family. It was truly my honor to love her well through that season of life and I was thrilled to be present for her big day. Her husband is wonderful and it did my friend heart so good to see her loved so wholly. That weekend was ALSO wonderful because I got to spend it with my dear friend (and previous roommate) Rachel and connected with the gorgeous and truly wonderful Joy Gadd who is now one of my closest and most encouraging friends.
June -
My littles came with their mama to visit for almost the entire month. I spent as much time in San Diego as possible to soak them up while they were in town. While they were here, my little M turned 5 and we got to celebrate her birthday with pink polka dot balloons a bounce house. I was so glad to be present for her actual birthday - it was gift.
One of the most meaningful weekends of the year was also in June. I served as a counselor at Teen Leadership Camp - a camp for children who have been part of the foster system. For three (3) days we escaped reality and went to the mountains where we played games, did crafts, ate camp food, zip-lined and stayed up way too late talking in our cabins. These kids have some of the most powerful stories I have ever heard. They are unseen in our communities and many them feel unwanted and unloved. One student said, "I wait all year to come to camp, because I am finally with my family". It was powerful and moved my soul. I hope to serve at TLC every single year of my future. I have always felt like God gave me the capacity to love His children, I've always had a heart for adoption - perhaps He is growing in me a heart for foster care as well.
July -
I got to throw my darling friend Shannon a baby shower - we were all eagerly anticipating the arrival of her very first - a baby girl. The shower was absolutely adorable! I did a lot of crafting and my efforts paid off for sure! Sienna Rose Key was born August 25 and she is beyond darling!
August -
My very first friend in Orange County - Rachel Reinert - got engaged to Andrew Smith. The two of them had been together off and on for years and I think I always knew they would end up getting married. I was thrilled to raise my glass to them at their engagement party and laugh the night away with one of the most energetic and enthusiastic couples I've ever known.
September -
AkinsParker Creative moved from Newport Beach to the historic Pacific Building in Downtown Santa Ana. My daily commute decreased from 27 miles each way to 28 miles TOTAL. I felt like I was living the dream. Our new offices are extremely interesting and definitely scream creative. I love our new home.
A bunch of my World Changers friends were also able to visit in September. The fun kicked off with Chad Hall - we went to see New Mexico State vs. The Bruins...NMS got annihilated, but my cousin Davis played a great game and it was really fun to be there cheering him on. Chris White and his lovely wife Bri arrived that same day - so we headed to LA for the Great Walking Tour. Wes Tate joined us halfway through the day and it was absolutely incredible to have four (4) World Changers from all over the country together in California. My heart surged. We were also able to visit Santa Monica and Chad and I snuck into Disneyland for a glimpse of the happiest place on earth. I will forever be a World Changer and the memories of my summers spent serving Christ with some of the greatest people He ever created will hopefully inspire me to love others well throughout my entire life.
October -
I got to throw a baby shower for my best friend Carrie. If you know me at all, you've probably heard about Izzy - she is Carrie's little girl and she survived a liver transplant at only 7 months old. Izzy is our little miracle and we love her beyond explanation and will forever be grateful for the time we've gotten to share with her. Now Izzy was going to be a big sister and it was my honor to throw a shower for Carrie and baby brother Rory. I threw the shower with one of the best friends a girl can have - Jenny Redmond. It was a relatively simple event with a bow-tie theme and hand-made bow-tie favors. My sewing machine got a serious workout making those bad boys! Rory James Sanchez was born on November 24. I was honored to be in the room when he made his appearance - he is darling and I'm already in love. Is there anything better than baby snuggles?
November -
Wedding celebrations for my best World Changers teammate officially began. I flew back to Missouri to throw Emily a bridal shower and bachelorette party. I didn't think I was going to be able to swing two trips initially, but I also didn't know Emily was planning to reimburse me for my flight to the wedding. After a bit of excited conversation, we decided to use the reimbursement money to fly me out for the weekend of festivities instead. It was amazingly wonderful to be there. I loved meeting all the gorgeous ladies in the bridal party and getting to be present for Emily. It is a little hard to be a long-distance Maid of Honor, but sharing that weekend definitely helped.
November also brought Rachel's bridal shower and bachelorette. Unfortunately Rachel and Emily booked their venues for the same date - they were both getting married on December 07. One in California and one in Missouri - it would be impossible to share in both. Rachel knew I wouldn't be able to attend when she booked her venue, but she still asked me to be a person of honor and it still broke my heart just a little bit to say no. I would have loved to have seen her become Mrs. Rachel Christine Smith. I was able to design their wedding invitation - so in some way - I was part of their day and a little piece of me will remain in their memories.
December -
The first weekend of December welcomed Emily's Wedding Weekend. I flew to St. Louis, Missouri on Wednesday, December 04 and all the fun began. It was a blustery weekend with lots of snow and freezing temperatures. It was absolutely stunning and since I don't see snow very often being a California girl, I loved it. It was one of my very favorite weekends of the year. Emily and I shared so many special moments and I can't describe the joy I felt standing next to her as she married Bryan. Emily and I served together over six (6) years ago and God did some thing really special with our hearts - He is the foundation of our friendship and regardless of how many miles separate us or how our lives change - we will be friends, sisters, and teammates. Michael Page was also on our team that summer and he made it to the wedding as well. It was a 24-hour reunion and it was perfect. Emily looked radiant as she walked down the aisle on her daddy's arm and their ceremony was personal and Christ-centered. Bryan is an incredible guy and Emily is a phenomenal girl. I wish them a lifetime of joy as they grow together and raise their family.
My little sister also graduated from Nursing School in December. She still has to pass the NCLEX and complete an RN to BSN program, but she has worked so hard and I am so proud of her for exhibiting such determination and drive in her educational career. I was able to be present for her pinning ceremony and both her parties and celebrated her big time!
Christmas was a bit strange this year since Kevin, Jamie, Madeline and Charlotte were unable to come home for the holidays. We saw them several times on FaceTime and via the interwebs, we opened all our presents together. However, I longed for hugs and wished I could see those sweet girls bouncing off the walls at Grandma and Grandpa's house. Nevertheless, I am thankful for family and blessed by the many generous gifts I received. It was a simpler holiday than usual, but I am learning to appreciate the quieter life.
This year also held lots of normal adventures- Megan and I got to spend several weekends together both in Orange County and in La Quinta where she now lives...we celebrated award shows, watched movies (even one in the cemetery), ate gluten free treats, saw the world's worst production of Little Women, drank a lot of coffee, shopped, thrifted and enjoyed as many moments as possible. I began my "career" in ushering for a local theatre and saw as many Broadway productions as I could including Funny Girl, Legally Blonde, Wicked, and Hairspray. I also went to the ballet and saw Sleeping Beauty (the vampire version) with great friends. My grandma turned 96 this year and is as hilarious as ever - I just love her. Izzy turned 2 and we celebrated with a Minnie Mouse pizza party - she is an absolute delight. I had lots of coffee dates with both Anna and Jenny - my childhood best friends and ate brunch at Chapter One with Jenny and Carrie as often as possible. I became friends with Ally Stepp and Carrie McQuaid, loved dinner dates with my roommate Sarah, went to breakfast more times than I can count and worked a lot. Mindy Taylor got engaged and so did Rebecca MacKenzie so it looks like 2014 will have more wedding bliss in store as well as LOTS more babies! I have much to look forward to and much to be thankful for.
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