VEAL (OR CHICKEN) PICCATA

1 lb veal (or 4 boneless chicken breasts), pounded thin

2 Tbsp grated Parmesan cheese

1/3 cup flour

Salt and pepper

4 Tbsp olive oil

4 Tbsp butter

1/2 cup chicken stock or dry white wine

3 Tbsp lemon juice

1/4 cup brined capers

1/4 cup fresh chopped parsley (optional)

Mix together the flour, salt, pepper, and grated Parmesan. Rinse the meat in water. Dredge the pieces thoroughly in the flour mixture until well coated.

Heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet on medium high heat. Add meat, brown well on each side, about 3 minutes per side. Remove the meat from the pan and reserve to a plate. Cover with aluminum foil and keep warm in the oven while you prepare the sauce.

Add the chicken stock (or white wine), lemon juice, and capers to the pan. Use a spatula to scrape up the browned bits. Reduce the sauce by half (3-5 minutes). Whisk in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Plate the veal and serve with the sauce poured over the chicken. Sprinkle with parsley, if desired.

Most of us have heard of The Five Love Languages by Dr. Gary Chapman. I have to admit, I haven't read it yet but I've read a lot about it. It's on my must-read list.

But I speak another language - I speak Movie - my native dialect is  "movie" but I picked up some TV slang along the way. Like "How You Doin'?"....I picked that up from Wendy Williams, whom I had never even heard of until I was watching "The Soup". I get my news from The Daily Show with Jon Stewart and I get my Hollywood gossip fix from The Soup. Joel McHale from The Soup L-O-V-E-S to slam Wendy Williams relentlessly so I thought I would at least check out her show to see if she is, indeed, as bizarre as Joel makes her out to be. She is. And yet...I find myself slchlepping her suddenly famous phrase around all day.

"How you doin'?" I ask the my husband first thing in the morning. He looks at me like I'm speaking a foreign language. The words he gets....the body move and the accent? Not so much. He makes no comment but assumes I'm speaking "Movie". And I don't bother to explain.

I tell him I've made our airline reservations for our trip next week. I ask 'what extra items do we need to pack for this trip'? He says, in his Al Pacino voice "take the gun, leave the cannoli". We have a few seconds of akward starring at which I point I realize....he also speaks 'movie'. All men speak 'Godfather'.

It's kind of sexy. So I 'make him an offer he can't refuse'. And we both speak THAT language quite fluently!

There are so many parts to the decision. Yellow or white gold? Or platinum or titanium instead? Solitaire or multiple stones? High setting or low? Antique style or contemporary? How many carats? Round, brilliant, marquis, emerald, or princess cut? Traditional white diamond? Or pink or yellow or chocolate? Or not a diamond at all, but a ruby or sapphire or opal or emerald? Family or estate diamond or new? If it's a handed-down ring, keep the setting or change it? Do you want it engraved? If so, what should it say and in what font? No wonder so many grooms-to-be get confused.

But the good news for all those grooms out there is that if the man is right, the ring will be right no matter what!

Then in the morning the hubby calls me at work and tells me that he came into the bedroom to change into his lounge pants and said that I had the phone charging  on his pillow.  

His words exactly, "as if I wasn't coming to bed and the phone replaced me.".  Ha! 

In my defense, at least the phone charger kept me company until the hubby finally came to bed.  I am obsessed do LOVE my crackberry blackberry to death.  But I guess I have reached a whole new level with my blackberry.  I guess if my blackberry is my new hubs, I'm going to have to change the color from pink to blue.  It only makes sense.

This beautiful mellow yellow inspiration board was created by the lovely Laura Sheffield of Little White Book from the United Kingdom.

Photo credits: pew ends weddingwire, candy jars via budgetwedding.com, drinks lindemanweddings, cupcakes fancie, wedding favours via stylemepretty.com. yellow roses brides.com, bride Bruce Oldfield, wedding bouquet via Kugab, pedestal arrangement projectwedding.com, bridesmaid davids bridal, polka dot shoes modern vintage bride, wedding cake realsimple.com.

Bright yellow and pale yellow bridesmaids dresses surround the bride in a feeling of warmth and happiness.

photo source Bridal Wave via Little White Book

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Of course, the invitations....

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And....reception decor

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Yellow just makes me happy!!

I'm assuming. That's not nice, I know. So let's just say the compromise is just at my house...between me and my non-Red Carpet, anti-Oscar-hoopla-lovin' hubby. But I like it....and he likes me.....so he tolerates the three hour plus star-studded television fest and even gives an obligatory (although not genuine) ooh and ahhh now and then to show me he's 'in the game'. He does this because he knows I know March Madness is here! And I'll be 'in the game' for The Big Dance. See? I know sports lingo....and he likes that!

Ok - so here's something that everyone will enjoy whether you're having an actual Oscar Party or it's just the two of you. My mom made this for a Super Bowl party and it is DELICIOUS~!

Example, yesterday he started to pace around from the couch to the closet door and back and forth and back and forth. Then he starts pacing around the coffee table and starts to look at stuff on the coffee table. He also paced himself over to the door and checked the locks and then proceeded to look out the peephole. Mind you, we live on the second floor and our door goes out to the stair hallway. If somebody was outside our door, we would have heard the downstairs door slam shut (because our walls are thin as a piece of paper) and the footsteps coming up the stairs. So we would have had plenty of indication if a person was standing in front of our door. But that didn't matter to the hubby yesterday, he just went over to the door and looked out the peephole. Maybe he wanted to make sure there was no mass murderer waiting on the top step for the right time to attack? Maybe he heard the downstairs door slam, then footsteps coming up the steps and a knock at our door? (which is not the case because I would have heard all of that noise too). Or maybe it's just because when he talks on the phone he gets distracted and starts to do the most random stuff ever while he paces the whole apartment? I'm going to go with the last one.

But seriously, I don't get the pacing. At least I can sneak in some kisses when he's in this "pacing trance" of his. :)

Today, a bride has endless options of what to do with her name. Many brides, especially those who marry after establishing a professional reputation under their maiden name, opt to keep their own name. Anne Smith marries James Parker but remains Anne Smith. But what about when little ones come along? Will they be little Johnny and Janie Parker or little Johnny and Janie Smith? Johnny and Janie Parker-Smith? Johnny and Janie Smith-Parker? And what if the bride opts to use her maiden name professionally but go by her husband's name socially? Her library card may be Anne Parker, but is her driver's license Anne Parker or Anne Smith? What about her bank account? Her tax return? It all gets very complicated.

And then we have the issue of remarriages. A friend of mine had established both a professional and an avocational reputation under her ex-husband's last name (Jones), so she wanted to keep that name. But her ex-husband was a cad who got her into legal and financial trouble, so she wanted to change her name. But her new husband is Jewish and has a very traditionally Jewish last name (let's say it's Cohen) that sounded odd with her very Gentile first name (we'll call her Colleen), so she wanted to keep her name. But it would mean a lot to her new husband for her to take his name, so she wanted to change it. In the end, she opted to take her husband's name but use her ex's name as well, and goes by Colleen Jones Cohen.

And then there are always a few creative types who come up with unusual solutions all their own. I have friends from college, Mary McGillicuddy and Joe Brown, who had a novel solution to the whole name dilemma. Instead of just the bride changing or hyphenating or otherwise messing with her name, the bride and groom combined both names and legally became Mary and Joe McBrown.

I was (and am) proud to bear my husband's name. I like my original middle name, so I kept that and dropped my maiden name. Anyone to whom my maiden name means anything knows what it is anyway. The only place I still use my maiden name is on Facebook, so old friends can find me. But my last name is my married name, period. That's my choice, and I don't fault anyone who chooses otherwise.

So how did YOU (or will you) choose to solve the name dilemma?

Nothing worse than that awkward silence that fills a room when the party just isn't happening like you had envisioned. People stare and the floor and then someone says...'Did I really just hear a cricket?'

STOP! Before you take one more step in planning your reception, find your DJ!

yep...that's Joel

I've had the pleasure of being at some rockin', fun, energy-packed parties with Atlanta DJ, Joel Rabe of Lethal Rhythms and I can assure you there was never a dull moment when he was at the mic.

He's been labeled "the must have Spin-Doctor for 2010." Winner of multiple awards and featured professional on Grace Ormonde's Platinum List, The Bridal Bar, Best of the Best 2010 and more, Joel is a passionate professional and Artist who will whip up some serious dance floor energy, creating an event around your Style, Taste and Vision. And....he's even cooler than Vanilla Ice...what what??

The team of Lethal Rhythms serves Atlanta and the Southeast. Give them a call and let them custom design your perfect event.

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I was watching a TV show a few years ago and a mom was talking to her daughter about teenage boys and sex. She grabbed an orange out of the fruit bowl and said "See this orange? To a boy it's a boob". Then she proceeded to pick up one random household item after another and say "See this? When a boy looks at this he thinks about sex!" Her point.....Boys think about sex...a lot.

And guess what? I'm sure this will just surprise the pants off of you (hee hee) but they really never stop thinking about it.

Really....N-E-V-E-R.

So why not join in the conversation that he might be having with himself in his own mind whenever you're looking for something - the car keys, a hammer....whatever....and you ask "Honey, where'd you put it?". You know what he's thinking. The truth is....he wants to know that you think about it too!

I'm sure you've heard someone say "That's what she said!" more than once. There's even a TWSS Facebook fan page with over 40,000 members! (YES...really!) So why not be a part of the fun at home with your husband? You'll laugh at yourselves for saying "that's what she/he said" after a really innocent comment. 

So please tell me we're not the only ones who twist a perfectly decent statement? We do it all the time and we're really good at it.......yeah, that's what he said! :-)

 I warned ya!

2. The best cooks tailor their cooking to their audience. If your spouse wants to add a little more spice to the meal, it doesn't mean he thinks you're a bad cook. It doesn't hurt to spice it up now and then.

3. Don't be afraid to get creative or try a new recipe occasionally. Even if neither of you loves the result, you'll get a good laugh out of it.

4. Who says you have to limit cooking to the kitchen? You can bring cooking equipment into the backyard, the living room, the garage...wherever!

5. Everyone has different appetites and tastes. Sometimes it's good to cook what he likes and sometimes it's good to cook what you like. You need to find a balance that works for both of you. Plus, sometimes you find out you like something you didn't think you would!

6. It's hard having two head chefs in charge at the same time. Better to take turns being head chef.

7. Every now and then, one (or both) of you might lose your appetite for a while. That's okay, but you'll stay healthier if you eat anyway. It'll even help bring your appetite back.

8. Good, basic, everyday fare is always good, but it's even better when supplemented with something fancy every now and then.

9. Everything tastes better by candlelight.

10. Every cook should have a collection of cute aprons.

When the FedEx truck pulled up yesterday this is what I saw when I first opened the box!

The flower bouquets arrive at your door in a very sturdy container, hand-wrapped comfortably so they do not move and swaddled with their own champagne bubbly-- flower food and water.

The Bridesign box with its outside shipping shell is so strong it can actually withstand over 600 lbs of weight without damaging the flowers.

Each bouquet, boutonniere, centerpiece or wrist coursage is clearly labeled so there's no confusion!

Bridesign guarantees you a true farm-made product, hand harvested with the best high quality flowers, delivered direct to your home in a patented packaging that protects the flowers during the shipping process.

I have truly never seen more beautiful, perfect roses!

Got questions about the process of ordering your wedding flowers online? Of course you do - that's why Bridesign has taken great lengths to address all of those questions in the FAQ section.

Would I recommend Bridesign? Absolutely!

♥ Special Discount Offer to all She Just Got Married Brides ♥

Use the code: SJM5001 for $25 off orders of $250 or more.

What are you thoughts on the titles of 'husband' and 'wife'?

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Written by Carrie Sloan, Editor in Chief of Lemondrop

I'm a brand-spanking newlywed whose single biggest fear about marriage was the word wife.

For me, it conjures up centuries of well-worn stereotypes: Women in bonnets bent over hot stoves, and '60s Stepford-types handing over martinis with tight smiles -- nothing resembling the thoroughly-2010 relationship I have with the guy I love.

I said "I do" to him because he's irreverent but responsible, scary-smart but socially graceful, and the person who never fails to make me guffaw. In fact, one fateful day after a bad breakup, before we were even an us, I said to him, "Adam, what if I die alone?"

"Don't worry," replied my future husband with a grin, "There are lots of nice people in the old folks home."

So, while I was Teflon-sure about my decision to marry him, it was society's expectations of what that meant that tied me up in knots. My fears worsened this Christmas, when after three months of marital bliss, I received no fewer than three aprons as gifts. To be fair, these weren't exactly Betty Crocker throwbacks: One was sequined and from Anthropologie, but ... still.

I started to wonder if Adam and I would be forced to submit – and by that I mean, retrofit our model of marriage into neat family-values molds. Just by virtue of having said "I do," would we slowly devolve into ... She who cleans and cooks, and He who brings home the bacon, then retreats wordlessly to his La-Z-Boy?

As it turns out, I wasn't the only one obsessing over what it meant to be a "husband" or a "wife" these days: In "Committed," Liz Gilbert's follow-up to her memoir read round the world, "Eat, Pray, Love," she devotes no less than 285 pages to exploring the labels -- and what lies within.

Finally, she concludes: "My sister and I have something we call the 'wifeless' marriage -- which is to say that nobody in our household will play or play exclusively, the role of the wife."

While we're at it, I propose we do away with "husband," too. In fact, I'd argue that, for all of my wifely qualities (I can obsess over throw pillows with the best of them), I have an inner husband who tends to drive at least double the legal speed limit and leave socks on the floor, while my actual husband -- tall, handsome, manly-guy that he is -- has an inner wife who lives to make sure we both have clean underwear.

Call us Wusband and Hife?

These labels, at least, allow for a little overlap: A division of labor based on what we're each best at, not just what's assigned us by virtue of chromosome. .....continued.....

Click HERE to read the FULL ARTICLE

I'm going to be honest and tell you that my husband and I discuss everything.....E-V-E-R-Y-T-H-I-N-G! The idea that his satisfaction is more important than mine is insulting to HIM. He wants to know that I like it when he____ or ____...and I let him know in words...real words, not just 'a small moan' to encourage him.

Why do we feel free to openly discuss everything from where we should go on vacation or how we should spend out tax refund (whether we agree or not) to eating organic to optimize our health or buying a car that will ensure our children's safety but so steer clear of sharing our thoughts on the most intimate part of our relationship as husband and wife?

Welcome to marriage 2.0 - if you haven't already gotten rid of outdated software...it's time to CONTROL + ALT + DELETE and END PROGRAM. Then create a communication platform that delivers everything you both want.

Oh..and FYI...he fixes the coffee for me so it's ready when I wake up.

Yep, he came home with not one, not two, not three..... but ELEVEN boxes!  Yeah, you read right, 11.  The picture above is just a sneak peek at some of the goodies.  

This is what happens when the hubby doesn't have me by his side when he is more than happy pressured to buy girl scout cookies.  He has NO control.  Or we can say that the Mom of the Girl Scout girl that works at his job was very convincing.  No, forget that last sentence.  They didn't need to be convincing since the hubby LOVES the cookies. 

Looks like we have dessert for the next 6 months!

So, what's your favorite girl scout cookie?

The hubby's favorite Samoas and Shortbread.

Mine is the Shortbread and Thin Mints.

That's right ladies and gentlemen, my best friend is taken!  Her wonderful fiance proposed to her on Valentine's Day and we (as in me and her) are SOOOO excited! 

I've known my best friend, Tiffany, since the age of 7.  We are now in our late 20s and it has been a crazy super fun time the years we have known each other.  They plan on getting married this upcoming summer so there is lots to do! 

I'm dreading lucky enough to be one of the most beautiful bridesmaids.  Which means that I get to look at wedding stuff all over again and scream with glee when I see something pretty which is wedding related!!!!!  I'm sure the hubs will soon get sick of "wedding talk" that we will HAVE to have since she lives in Chicago and the wedding will be in NJ where I am.  So, I've already created a folder labeled "Tiffany Wedding" to put in ideas for everything. Yes, I'm that excited. Don't judge. You'd do the same.

She was an awesome bridesmaid in my wedding and it seems so surreal that she is getting married.  We've known each other since we were little girls and always talked about the day we both would be getting married.  In a couple of months that day will be here and then I can say that we are both officially "old married ladies." 

A picture of the greatest bride, me,  who was always nice to her bridesmaid and never complained with the bridesmaid who is now the bride-to-be, Tiff!

For example, it took me a while to figure out that sometimes H is mad but he's not mad at me. If I'd known that he gets snappish when he's frustrated I wouldn't have taken it personally and been hurt when he was short with me.

It took me a few months to discover that it was easier to start folding the laundry the way he likes it than to convince him to fold it the way I like it. And the combination of the two just doesn't fit in the drawers. So when I take the towels out of the linen closet, I unfold them and refold them before I hang them on the towel rods, because H folds them in half first instead of last. It's just not a hill worth dying on.

One of the hardest things to learn was that speaking up for myself doesn't make me a bad wife or a bad person. H is naturally more assertive and outspoken than I am, so at first I tended to keep my opinion to myself and always let him "drive the bus". But once I started speaking up, I realized that he doesn't see that as my being a jerk or a nag or being pushy. It can be as simple as my making dinner the way I like it and when H makes a suggestion of how to do it differently, my saying, "Next time we'll do it your way; this time we'll do it mine." Or it might be something more important, like a disagreement about the baby's schedule or what to do with our tax refund or whether we should remodel the kitchen or refinish the basement floor as our next home improvement project.

What kinds of things did YOU learn about marriage or your spouse that you wish you had known earlier (or at least learned more quickly)?

• There is a used paper plate on the kitchen counter
• There is a used napkin on the counter
• The aluminun foil box is on top of the stove
• There is water all over the counter
• There is a piece of lettuce in the sink
• The cold cuts are misplaced in the fridge

That's how you know my hubby was making himself a sandwich before he left for work.

At least he made his own lunch today...

Maple Glazed Pork Chops

1/2 cup all-purpose flour

salt and pepper to taste

4 bone-in pork loin chops, 1 inch thick

2 tablespoons butter

1/4 cup cider vinegar

1/3 cup maple syrup

1 tablespoon cornstarch

3 tablespoons water

2/3 cup packed brown sugar

In a large resealable plastic bag, combine flour, salt and pepper. Add pork chops and shake to coat. In a skillet, brown chops on both sides in butter. Place in an ungreased 13-in. x 9-in. x 2-in. baking pan. Bake, uncovered, at 450 degrees F for 20-25 minutes or until juices run clear.

Meanwhile, in a skillet, bring the vinegar to a boil. Reduce heat; add maple syrup. Cover and cook for 10 minutes. Combine cornstarch and water until smooth; add to the maple mixture. Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened.

Place chops on a broiler pan; sprinkle with brown sugar. Broil 4 in. from the heat for 2-3 minutes or until sugar is melted. (If you don't have a broiler, just pop the chops back in the hot oven for 5 minutes or so to melt the sugar.) Drizzle with maple glaze.

These chops are especially good served with applesauce and wild rice!

Beach Bum Photography.....take me away!

Husband and wife photography team, David and Jessica, specialize in weddings, but also take family portraits and engagement photos. They describe themselves as " dorky, laid back, and sometimes a bit sentimental... trying our best not to cry at our couples' weddings."

A Little about David and Jessica (how cute are they?!!!)

David - master of candid shots and quite creative with posing couples, enthusiastic about life, loves everyone, total goofball, can be bribed with banana pudding, drummer

Jessica - loves to find creative shots and funky angles, organized and focused, queen of editing, digs the color green and Dr.Pepper, bass player

They have been married 12 years and have two children. "We are so blessed to be able to work together. Photography is our passion, but connecting with our clients is top priority. The Lord has given us these gifts, so we choose to use them for His glory and to show His love manifested in our lives."

Now stop and think about how often you kiss these days. Especially if you're already married, those long makeout sessions may have dwindled to more and more quick pecks and fewer and fewer steamy kisses. Your physical relationship has other aspects to it now, and it's very easy to let kissing fall by the wayside. But I recommend making a concerted effort to keep kissing!

Last week H was away for a long weekend visiting his daughter, and I missed him terribly. So I sent him a tantalizing little list of things that he does that I love, including some things I requested he do more often. The list included everything from how much I love snuggling against him in bed to some pretty racy stuff that I won't list here! But one of the things on my list was a request that we kiss more. And boy, talk about ask and you shall receive!

In the larger scheme of life, kissing is not one of the most important things. But it can be the glue that holds things together, the sandpaper that smooths over the rough edges, the lotion that soothes the aches of the day.

So tonight, when you both get home from work, grab your sweetie and plant a big wet one on him! I don't think you'll get any complaints.

Moments like these are what really makes a marriage fun, exciting, surprising, and grateful for having such a wonderful spouse. 

Have you told your spouse that you love them today?  If not, you should and remind them how grateful you are to have such an amazing person to be lucky enough to be your spouse.

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I sat in an exit row on my flight to Denver - a seat where people with long legs hope and pray they can sit on any flight. I'm 5'2" and for some reason, I was assigned an exit row. Fine by me.

What I didn't know was that the gentleman sitting next to me, who was obviously over 6' tall, was a "Super Star". I was in the presence of greatness.

I'm one of those people who will talk to you in the grocery line, say hello if we pass each other in a hallway or comment on your awesome jogging outfit as you sprint by me (which is always the case - not me sprinting by you!).

So after 30 minutes of silence, and as they flight attendant was handing us both our snacks and drinks, we made eye contact and I asked..."So, is Denver your home?"  He said "No, I'm headed there for work".

I will spare you the details of the hour long conversation other than the fact that we quickly discovered we had a mutual point of interest....football. Yep...football. I grew up in a football fanatic family. Even better...he and I shared a love for the same NFL team - and, in fact...he shared that his father had actually played for this team 'back in the day'. How COOL!

He then shared that "his honey" (that's what he called her) is a woman who works with the NFL. Of course I knew who she was!! Oh..My... Goodness - HE was married to HER?? She's a celebrity!

He took out his iPhone and began to show me pictures of her....her at work with NFL players, her with their dogs. Her in her own dressing room before a big game. He beamed when he talked about her. He talked about their long engagement...their private, in-home wedding, how they plan to have a renewal ceremony on their 10 year anniversary.

Fast forward....when I met up with my husband later that night I excitedly shared this story with him. He let me ramble on and on about meeting a celebrity's husband. But, being the MAJOR sports enthusiast that he is...he wanted to know who the man's father was that played for the team "back in the day". SO I said "I'll Google it". What I discovered was quite a surprise to say the very least.

Not only had his father played for 'the team' but the man, himself, the guy who beamed when he talked about his wife, the guy who showed me pictures of her with their dogs that they had gotten from rescue shelters....never mentioned that he was a two time Super Bowl champion who played for MY TEAM....the very team that has been a huge part of my fanatical family for generations.

Why would I say I was in presence of greatness? It wasn't because he was a Super Bowl champion...or that he was married to a celebrity or that his father had played on 'my' NFL team. He was a Super Star, in my opinion, because he honored his wife. Maybe he was keeping it on the D.L. so an obvious fan, like me, wouldn't get swept up being star-struck. Maybe. But I was there - I saw him smile when he talked about her....like she was the Super Star....and it was great!

For Valentine's Day, I got...a faucet. But that is NOT equivalent to Charlie Brown's rock! On the surface, it sounds like a lousy gift. But it was honestly, truly, something that I wanted. I had told H some time ago that the handle on my bathroom faucet had lost a piece and it looked terrible, so I wanted to replace it. He said okay but then forgot about it. I didn't push the issue because it wasn't really a priority, but I'll admit that I got pretty miffed the day he came home from Home Depot with two new toilet seats (what was wrong with our old toilet seats? I still don't know) but no faucet. He doesn't use my bathroom very often, so he didn't notice that the faucet looked lousy, and I didn't make it clear to him how much it bothered me, so it never occurred to him to get a new faucet.

But when Valentine's Day rolled around, even though we had agreed to take each other shopping as our present (we both love picking out clothes for each other), H also not only bought but INSTALLED my new faucet. And the installation part was definitely the best part of the gift. Not only was it something I didn't need to worry about (I'm a reasonaby competent plumber, but I probably would have needed a sledgehammer and twenty gallons of WD-40 to detach the old fixture), it meant that I got to watch H in manly mode working with tools. Rowr! There's just something incredibly sexy about watching a man fix stuff, don't you think?

(This is not H, by the way. H looked MUCH sexier. And there was a lot more junk on the floor of my bathroom. My junk, not his.)

So that was my fabulous Valentine's Day present from my fabulous sweetheart! Oh yeah, there were gorgeous cream-colored roses, too.

But the best gift was my faucet and my Mr. Fix-It.

In the early weeks and months of our marriage, we continued the writing tradition. He would e-mail me from work to say how much he was looking forward to seeing me at dinnertime; I would e-mail him with hints about what I'd be wearing and how I would do my hair that night. Sometimes our exchanges were fun and flirtatious, sometimes serious and devoted, but always heartfelt.

Over the months, the frequency of those little personal notes dwindled. But we both still sent them every now and then, and their sporadic nature actually made them even more precious and treasured. So this past weekend, when H was away for a few days, we resurrected our e-mail tradition. And even better than that, he had hidden a gift and a hand-written card for me for each day he was gone, and told me in an e-mail each morning where the next one was hidden. Not only were the cards he chose sweet and perfect in their sentiments, but the personal note in his beautiful handwriting touched my heart every morning.

But above and beyond that personal touch, he managed to find time every day to send me a long, thoughtful e-mail telling me he was thinking about me and how much he missed me. We spoke to each other on the phone several times a day and even managed a videoconference, but his written notes were like a secret whisper in my ear meant for only me.

Maybe it's because there's a certain level of trust in placing a tangible expression of intimate thoughts in another's hands. There's no lingering proof of what was said in a phone call, no way for someone to accidentally stumble across a previous Skype conversation. But the written word can be treasured and savored over and over, it can be tucked away in a safe place for the reader to return to again and again, it can be hidden in a secret trove, never to be seen by any but the receiver.

Love letters are, indeed, the write stuff.

Me: I'm going to take a nap, wake me up at 4:30

Hubs: Ok

[[about 40 minutes pass and all of a sudden I hear my cell phone ringing which wakes me up]]

Me: {looks at the cell phone half asleep}

Hubs: Babe, wake up

[[Yes, he called my cell phone to wake me up because he was playing video games in the living room that is no more than 30 feet away in our apartment.  Yes, he really did]]

Me: You're so lazy! You're calling me to wake me up from the living room. {I hear shooting and siren noises in background, he's playing Grand Theft Auto on the PS3}

Hubs: You told me to wake you up, so this is me waking you up.

Me: unbelievable 

[[phone call ends]]

What do you get when you take 27 authors who are passionate about marriage and stick them in a group together? Well, you get an eBook called Love Everyday. ♥

I was honored when I was asked by Dustin (Engaged Marriage) to participate in this collaborative effort. But what is the real motivation behind the project?  Editor Stu Gray (The Marry Blogger) said in the Love Everyday introduction, "I don't think most people go into marriage thinking "Man, I want this thing to last six and a half years and then move on to someone else." Most want the dream-a relationship that lasts a lifetime. But, how do we do that?"  The team's goal was to figure out how to convey those critical topics that so often go unaddressed in marriage.

Love Everyday will inspire you to refocus on your marriage, both what it can do for you and what you can do for it. The writing team, made up of 27 bloggers and authors (including Dan Miller of 48 Days To The Work You Love fame), tackled the subjects along a "day in the life of" pattern, taking you from waking up to hitting the town and everything in between.  The breadth of insight and viewpoints from these talented folks makes for well more than a meal's worth of food for thought for you and your partner.

Love Everyday will be available to you for download at no charge this week. We hope you enjoy! ♥

Love always ~ Denée King, Founder of "She Just Got Married"

H is rarely guilty of the first two, but he has told me right out that he doesn't notice things like a different hairstyle or a new blouse. This came as no surprise, considering that we've had the following exchanges:

H: Hey, you colored your hair!

Me: Yes, two weeks ago.

or

H: What a pretty dress. I don't think I've ever seen you in it.

Me: I wore it on New Year's Eve. I have it on in your last Facebook profile picture.

(Okay, that last one may include some slight exaggeration. Slight.)

This doesn't bother me in the least, because I keep reminding myself of something much more important than H noticing a new haircut: He doesn't notice when I have a bad hair day. How awesome is that?

Seriously, he thinks I'm equally gorgeous on the 6 days of the year that I go to a salon as I am on the other 359 days that I don't. He thinks I look just as vibrant the day before I color my hair as the day after. He thinks I look just as sexy in the little black dress he's seen me in dozens of times as I do in something I just bought.

So instead of being annoyed at your hubby's Jedi-induced blindness, try to find positives about it. After all, if there's nothing to eat in the fridge, he'll have to take you out to dinner, won't he?

She Just Got Married from One Chance Wedding Video Page on Vimeo.

She Just Got Married celebrates the joy of love and the journey of a newlywed woman. Together we connect with a growing circle of friends to share, discover, express, question, and exchange ideas that will explore every aspect of newlywed life. Welcome to this community that's dedicated to Discovering You After 'I do'.

As Hallmark (and Godiva, and Victoria's Secret, and FTD) is so eager to remind us, Valentine's Day is almost upon us. In theory, Valentine's Day is a wonderful opportunity to express your love to your special someone, to plan a romantic outing (or "inning"), to show your sweetheart how cherished he or she is. In practice, it's an opportunity to stick your foot in your mouth, be labeled as boring or cliche, or look like an uncaring dufus. In other words, tread carefully, because it's a very fine line between perfect success and utter disaster.

So here's the question: Should you ask your sweetie for suggestions? Is it less romantic to ask what he or she would like and get the "right" thing, or is it worse to make a bad guess and land in the doghouse? Most women give the excuse "If he really loved me (or listened to me), he would know what I want." Or "I gave him enough hints!" Really? Because most men aren't so great at taking hints. Pointing at a poster in the Victoria's Secret window and remarking, "Oh, isn't that cute?" goes down in a woman's book as telling him what she wants. To a man, all it says is, "If you look at that supermodel's boobs for one split second too long, you're a dead man."

Women have a different, and two-fold, problem: a) the stuff he says he wants is generally as unromantic as it gets (iPhone, power drill, World of Warcraft XVII), and b) he'll buy it for himself before Valentine's Day anyway. So you can ask him what he wants, and he will tell you, but you won't want to get it for him and if you do he'll end up with two.

So what to do? Go with roses and chocolates and hope there are no allergies or diets on the horizon? Get him the power drill anyway and hope he doesn't get to Home Depot between now and Valentine's Day? My solution is to go ahead and ask. I don't expect H to be able to read my mind, and I know he only asks because he wants to get me what I really want, not what he THINKS I want. I do like to be surprised, and that's why when he asks I try to give him a list, or general categories: perfume (but not a specific type), dinner out (but let him choose the restaurant), lingerie (but he chooses the color and style), etc.

So how do you and your sweetie pick Valentine's Day presents?

photo source

I just got this recipe from my mom - who I can promise you....just came across it herself otherwise we'd have had this every night for dessert when I was growing up. She and I have a lot in common....and chocolate is right up there at the top of the list. Oh well - better now than never! THANKS, MOM!

Have you told your loved one how much you love them today?  How much you care for them?  If not, send a text, make a quick call, send an e-mail, etc.  The little things really DO count. 

Hoping you have a lovely Wednesday. 

<3 to you all!

Introducing one of the main characters of the show, Mr. Matt Bomer who plays Neil.

Yeah, I know what you're thinking.... He's HOT!  Hubby is always asking me what I think about him, and I always shrugged and said "He's cute... pretty handsome."   I didn't want to give in that every time we watch this show, I'm secretly drooling and am undressing Matt Bomer with my eyes.  Well, I guess now he will know.  I'm soooo going to hear the hubby making me fun of me now, but oh well.  I'll just keep myself distracted when the hubs is making fun of me by undressing Matt with my eyes.  

For dessert, I'll have me some Matt Bomer.

So, ask away!  I'm (and the hubs, he just doesn't know it yet) ready to answer your questions!!!!!!! 

When you marry someone, you know a lot about him. You're familiar with his habits, you know how he goes about his day. You know whether he's a neatnik or a slob, whether he listens to classical music or hard rock, whether he likes fast food or gourmet cuisine. You may even know whether he puts the loose end of the toilet paper roll over or under. But I can guarantee that until you are married (and have been for a while), that he has quirks you don't know about.

H's quirk is the mayonnaise spoon. The what? The mayonnaise spoon. Still confused? Then let me explain. He is an incredibly neat person. He never leaves socks on the floor, he never leaves his shoes lying around, he cleans up the kitchen while he's cooking, he folds the laundry as soon as the dryer is done. He always puts his dirty dishes in the dishwasher, he never leaves them in the sink. EXCEPT for the mayonnaise spoon. Whenever he makes himself a sandwich for lunch, he uses a spoon to scoop out the mayonnaise and spread it on the bread, and then he leaves it on the edge of the sink, still with a glop of mayonnaise in it. He almost never rinses the mayo out and he almost never puts it directly into the dishwasher.

Now, this doesn't bother me in the least, as I often leave dirty dishes in the sink - I did it even before I had the excuse of dealing with the baby. I have no problem tossing all the dirty dishes in the dishwasher at the end of the day. But I find it absolutely hysterical that H consistently leaves that spoon in the sink, because it's so completely out of keeping with the rest of his habits.

I don't know if he's even aware that he does it. (He may be reading this and thinking, "I do? Really?") But I love that he does. Sometimes I feel like he's got it all together and I'm kind of a mess, but then I see that spoon and remember that he's not perfect, either. That funny little quirk reassures me that I'm married to a real, imperfect human being, just like me.

By Lori Lowe

The dreams or memories of your big wedding day are new and bright. When you close your eyes, you can smell the roses, feel the silk and taffeta, and see the flash of the camera. But all the work of planning and investing in a successful wedding day is far less important than planning your lifelong marriage.

I've spent the last two years studying research about marriage and interviewing couples who have experienced some incredible highs and some devastating lows in marriage-and came out on top. I'll share with you 10 tips to help you protect and build a strong marriage.

1. In today's fast-paced, two-career families, traditional roles may not apply in your home. However, it's important to continue to value your masculinity and femininity. He needs to be respected and treated as your hero; she needs to be romanced and to feel loved. Understanding the Five Love Languages can help you convey love in a way your partner can truly appreciate.

2. Spend less money than you earn. Save for emergencies. Debt will eat away at your marriage. Enough said.

3. Believe in each other. Lift each other up. Be on your spouse's side. Encourage their dreams. Be the one your spouse can't wait to come home to. Create a vision for your relationship for five, ten, fifteen years down the road.

4. Give your spouse five positive comments for every one negative. This 5:1 ratio has been proven in successful relationships. Frequent nagging or bickering will tear down your relationship and will probably cause him to withdraw. If you can't find something nice to say about your spouse, he or she will probably start listening to others who offer praise or attention.

5. In our culture, individualism and freedom are paramount, but when you chose marriage you chose a different route-a route of companionship and caring, of sacrifice and loving. There will be days when you feel you are giving more than you are getting. That's OK. On that same day, your spouse may feel like he is giving more than he is getting. Keep giving. Keep loving. That's agape love. By focusing on your own happiness, you miss out on the chance for deeper love and deeper joy.

In his book, Take Back Your Marriage, William J. Doherty, PhD, one of the nation's most prominent pro-marriage counselors, describes today's "consumer marriage" in which spouses are constantly focused on "what's in it for me" as the root cause of most marital failures. He explains how this mentality can eventually cause you to work yourselves into a divorce, even when the issue isn't a deal-breaker.

6. Learn to better listen to one another.

7. Don't let your arguments get out of hand. Create boundaries for fighting fair.

8. Make time for sex. I know that seems odd to say to newlyweds who are madly in love, but there will be times when passion does not rule the day. Pregnancies, careers, exhaustion, illness, job loss, hormonal issues, children-these can stand in the way of lovemaking. Sharing the intimacy of sex protects the marriage in many ways and communicates love. Happier couples have more sex.

9. Be careful with social media to ensure temptation doesn't divide your relationship.

10. Remember your promise. Life will not be perfect with your spouse. Every relationship has strengths and weaknesses, and some problems will never be fully resolved. Focus on the positive and not the negative. Have fun. Laugh. Celebrate even small successes. Surround yourself with great influences and good role models.

Sign up at www.LifeGems4Marriage.com to receive biweekly tips to enhance your relationship. Lori Lowe has been happily married to her real-life hero for 14 years. They live in Indianapolis with their two children, a crazy cat and two aquatic frogs. Lori is writing a book profiling couples who have used adversity-from loss of a child to substance abuse and infertility-to improve their marriages.

Life comes at you....fast. Ok - so I didn't make up that fabulous quote but trust me...it does.

Today is February 1, 2010. It's one of those cool dates when you say each number....02-01-2010. I have a thing for numbers. Like when I wake up and it's 12:34....or I'm driving and I see it's 11:11. I decided those are all 'lucky' numbers.

My daughter was born on New Year's Day - 01-01. More good luck for sure! The year? 1986. Yes....life comes at you fast.  One day I was bringing her home from the hospital as the very first baby born in the state of Georgia in 1986....and last week - 24 short years later - we were in that very same hospital where a doctor from the same OB/GYN office that helped bring her into this world would be performing surgery on her.  Surgery that needed to be done if she ever wants to have a baby....and she does!

She's been a newlywed woman for a year and a half but at that moment....she was my little girl. I stood by her incredibly wonderful husband as he kissed her while the 'happy juice' began to kick in and she floated off into la-la land. Ahhhh....the wonders of anesthesia. I stepped back. She was drifting out of consciousness while she tried, in vain, to keep her eyes open. But she gave it one more big push to open them wide and she began looking around the room....for him. The last person she made eye contact with....was him.  She smiled....she was safe.  She loves him. She's not my little girl...she is his wife.  

Yes...life comes at you fast but if you're 'lucky' you get to witness some pretty cool stuff.

Empanadas and the possibility to make them today.  

So, I headed out to the store and picked up some ground beef and the "discos" (which means the little pastry circles) and got to work when I came home.  I've started since noon today on browning the beef and making my homemade hot sauce that goes very well with the empanadas.  Right now, it's 3:18 pm and I have about three more batches  (4 at a time in my deep fryer) to go!  Hot sauce is already made.  Hubby is actually feasting on the first batch that came out of the deep fryer.  

My apartment may smell like deep fried empanadas for the rest of the day today, but it's well worth it when I can stuff my face with them!

Then in a couple of hours I'm going to make an apple crisp to end off our night with a delish dessert!  Can't wait.

Happy Sunday.

 Now, I have not worked out since the beginning of December, but have been watching my portions for lunch and dinner time and trying to eat less junk and healthier.  I also drink A LOT of water, especially at work which makes me wish that I had a toilet right next to me.  So, with this burst of motivation I whipped out the Wii Fit and am determined to be healthier.  Notice I said healthier and not skinny.  It's about being healthy and strong, not wishing I was a size 4 when I know my body is not made out to be that size. So I put on some workout clothes, Wii Fit socks and pulled the hair up.  It's been a long time since I had to stretch my leg out so darn far!  Those strengthening exercises KICKED my ass!  Like seriously, who wants to put their leg pass their hip to touch their head?  Not I!  It seemed I have gotten a bit  better with my balance than the last time I used the Wii Fit... the little wii symbol thingy told me so.  Then I started doing the aerobics which I love! 

I love doing the stepping aerobics!  But, I do on occasion almost fall on my ass when I don't step far enough from the balance board, but I haven't fallen YET, so I'm happy about that.

Because I did so darn much in aerobics, I opened up boxing!  I got excited and starting boxing away. 

 

(Note: This recipe serves 4 but can easily be cut in half to serve 2)

Ingredients

3 to 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth

4 tablespoons unsalted butter

1 medium onion, finely chopped

1 clove garlic, minced

1 1/2 cups Arborio rice

1 cup dry white wine, such as Pinot Blanc or Sauvignon Blanc

1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan, plus more for serving

Directions

1.      In a medium saucepan, bring the broth to a simmer and keep warm over low heat.

2.      In a separate medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook, stirring with a wooden spoon, until the onion is transparent, about 5 minutes. Add the rice and cook, stirring, until it is well coated with the butter and starts to turn translucent, about 2 minutes. Add the wine and simmer gently until all the liquid is absorbed, 3 to 5 minutes.

3.      Ladle 1/2 cup of the warm broth into the rice mixture and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the broth is absorbed. Repeat, adding 1/2 cup of broth at a time, until the rice is cooked through but still firm, 20 to 25 minutes total.

4.      Add the remaining butter and the salt, pepper, and 1/2 cup of Parmesan. Stir to incorporate. Adjust seasoning with more salt to taste. Serve immediately, topping with additional Parmesan.

Delicious! And once you master this basic recipe, have fun trying variations, like adding mushrooms, or lemon juice, or various kinds of cheese, or using champagne or cider instead of white wine, or anything else your heart desires!

The difference, to me, is that a rut is a routine that you fall into because you're too bored or apathetic to try anything else, whereas a routine is a predictable pattern you've worked out that's comfortable for you. For example, meatloaf every Tuesday because you can't be bothered to try something else is a rut. Meatloaf every Tuesday because your husband loves it is a routine. Dinner out and a movie every Friday night is a routine if you both love it, but a rut if you're too lazy to think of another option.

As newlyweds, you will need to establish new patterns that work for both of you. So just be sure you're settling into a pleasant routine and not a boring rut!

As you prepare your romantic meal for two this Valentine's Day--what better way to express your love and desire than with chocolate? A favorite culinary aphrodisiac of many, chocolate contains phenylethylamine - the same chemical released in your brain when you fall in love, leading to an excited feeling of infatuation.

This Valentine's Day try a romantic cocktail party for two with a tempting invitation to experience any of the seven luscious chocolate cocktail recipes below. I don't know about you, but I want to try each and every drink; you can almost taste the tantalizing pleasures with names like Raspberry White Chocolate Truffle, Hearts Afire, White Chocolate Martini, Chocolate Covered Cherries, Peanut Butter Cup, Death by Chocolate, Almond Joy Martini. Enjoy the moment as you savor that lovin' feeling shaken and stirred.

Raspberry White Chocolate Truffle

• 1-1/2 oz Van Gogh Raspberry Vodka
• 1/2 oz White chocolate Godiva
• 1-1/2 oz White crème de Cocoa
• 1 oz Raspberry Liqueur
• 3 Raspberries

Combine liquid ingredients in a shaker and shake over ice.  Strain into glass.  Garnish with raspberries on a pick.

Hearts Afire

• 2 oz Van Gogh Dutch Chocolate Vodka
• 4 oz Hot Chocolate
• 3 Roasted marshmallows on small skewer

Pour Van Gogh Dutch Chocolate Vodka into a mug and add hot chocolate. Garnish with home-roasted marshmallows on a skewer or whipped cream. (Always use caution when handling hot liquids).

White Chocolate Martini

• 1 oz Van Gogh Vanilla vodka
• 2 oz White Chocolate Liquor
• 1 oz Cream
• White chocolate shavings or white cocoa powder

Roll rim of martini glass in white chocolate shavings or white cocoa powder.  Add all liquids in a shaker and shake over ice. Strain drink into a martini glass.

 Chocolate Covered Cherries

• 1 oz Van Gogh Dutch Chocolate vodka
• 1 oz Van Gogh Black Cherry vodka
• 1 oz Crème de cacao
• Cream
• 3 Maraschino cherries
• Chocolate syrup

Swirl chocolate syrup around inside of martini glass and place maraschino cherries in the bottom of the glass.  Add liquids into a shaker with ice and shake.  Pour into martini glass.

Here'a a mind-boggling statistic.....

Divorce lawyers are reporting this month that 20 percent of divorce petitions cite Facebook as a contributor in the marriage's demise. YIKES - I LOVE Facebook! I've reconnected with old friends and relatives and it's been so nice to catch up with them. I've been able to create photo albums and share family get-togethers with everyone on my friend list at the same time. That's the great thing about Social Networks.

But then...there's the other side. And you don't have to do anything more than a Google search to find stories like this one: He Two-Timed me On Facebook but our Divorce will Be For Real.

A wonderful blog I have recently found called "Life Gems 4 Marriage", written by Lori Lowe, shares some great insight as to how the rapid explosion of online communications with the myriad of Social networking sites (not just Facebook, obviously) affects relationships and marriage in particular.

Lori shares these statistics for the top reasons Americans say they divorce:

Top reasons why American women said they'd gotten divorced:

           communication problems (69.7 percent)
           unhappiness (59.9 percent)
           incompatible with spouse (56.4 percent)
           emotional abuse (55.5 percent)
           financial problems (32.9 percent)
           sexual problems (32.1 percent)
           spouse's alcohol abuse (30 percent)
           spouse's infidelity (25.2 percent)
           physical abuse (21.7 percent)*

Top reasons why American MEN say they divorced:

          communication problems (59.3 percent)
          incompatible with spouse (44.7 percent)
          unhappiness (46.9 percent)
          emotional abuse (24.7 percent)
          financial problems (28.7 percent)
          sexual problems (30.2 percent) *

Let's just consider the #1 reason both men and women list as their reason the marriage ended....communication.
Is anyone listening??? Or, perhaps, the more important question is WHO are we talking to?

source

My husband and I were having our morning coffee and conversation (like we do each and every morning) and saw a commercial (because we have The Weather Channel on...lame, I know) where Sarah McLachlan was playing the piano and singing. Mr. Married and Lovin' it said..."isn't it amazing how someone can take those same keys that are on all pianos and create a such unique song? In fact...the truth is, there are an infinite number of songs that can be created from those very same keys. Cool."

88 keys on a piano. 52 white Notes and 36 black Notes. That's it. And yet....the endless number of symphonies and melodies is mind boggling.

Sarah's piano doesn't have more keys than mine does and yet she has dedicated time, heart and soul to honing her skill with her piano and creating something that touches millions. She plays with such feeling. I can play "Silent Night" and a few Elton John songs but if I chose to practice a little each day I might could play like Sarah.

It's an old lesson - just from a different perspective. We all have the same resources - 88 keys on our pianos - 24 hours in a day, a mind that's capable of endless ideas, and most importantly....choice.

Life is like a piano....and it's your choice what songs you play. What does your life 'sound' like? Are you Playing with Feeling?

Ok girls....here's your chance!

Be featured on Get Married's national show on WeTV. Get Married is looking for real brides! Get Married will help you identify and match your personality with your unique bridal style as part of an array of inspiring challenges with wedding professionals and experts. Become a star bride and you could be saying, "OMG! I'm going be on TV!"

Sign Up for the Seduction Meals Newsletter for more tips on recipes, drinks, hot music, and everything you need for creating romantic meals for two. Follow Seduction Meals on Facebook and Twitter.

Today begins the annual tribute to the most celebrated day of romance--Valentine's Day. From now through February 14th Seduction Meals, the "go-to site for Romantic Meals for Two", brings an array of dazzling dishes from appetizers to main courses, desserts and luscious cocktails, to help you plan for your special romantic rendezvous. We begin with pure chocolate sedcution with provocative chocolates by chocolate artisan Vosges

Embraced in their signature purple boxes that exudes style and seduction, Vosges Haute Chocolat is one the of BEST resources for Valentine's Day Gifts of Love. A long-time favorite of mine for sending gifts with that special WOW factor, these delicious artisinal delights are a just a click away. 

Vosges HipHop Collection - $29
This decadent truffle combines white chocolate, Krug ® Champagne and gold leaf--echoing rap's transition from music to a culture of "bling". The word "bling" was first used in 1999 by rappers B.G., Juvenile and Baby Birdman on their track Bling Bling to celebrate their flashy wealth and expensive diamonds. It quickly became a fad, infiltrating rap and hip-hop music until recent years, when the phrase became too commonplace to garner the same street value. Since then, many artists have spoken out against the bling lifestyle, criticizing it as promoting materialism in lieu of responsibility. Even still, "bling" remains a part of hip hop history.

Vosages Red Fire Flaming Heart - $8
Be still, my beating heart.

The flaming heart symbolizes ardent affection and true love. Give our solid chocolate rock 'n' roll version to whoever makes your heart race. Red Fire: Mexican ancho & chipotle chillies + Ceylon cinnamon + dark chocolate.


Vosges_La Petit Hatbox - $95
What better a gift than a mini hatbox filled to the brim with chocolate? Chocolate from our Exotic, Comfort, Couture Cocoa and Exotic Candy Bar collections for whatever mood strikes you. Inside: 9 piece Exotic Truffle Collection, 1/2 lb. Bapchi's Caramel Toffee, Aztec Elixir Cocoa & 2 Exotic Candy Bars, in our signature purple hatbox.

Vosges Heartbox Collection - $43
I left you last night with my heart no longer my own.

Our signature collection and best selling truffles are tucked in a purple heart. Each purple box is hand-tied with a satin bow and includes an enclosure booklet describing the flavors and telling our unique truffle stories.

Krug Champagne Brut Grande Cuvée + Exotic Truffle Collection - $325
Our most luxurious gift box includes Krug Champagne and our signature Exotic Truffle Collection. Make a statement for your loved one.

Great Gatsby Collection - $42
Inspired by the famous love story of the Great Gatsby and the love of his life, Daisy, I created a collection of two decadent truffles. Rich dark chocolate swirled with bubbly brut Champagne and topped with a red rose petal completes the Gatsby truffle. The delicate Daisy truffle pairs white chocolate with pink rosé Champagne from Might I treat you to some decadent champagne truffles kissed with a rose?

Le Chocolat en Rose Truffles - $39
"When you press me to your heart, I'm in a world apart, a world where roses bloom."
Our new, Pink Champagne truffles combine Piper Heidsieck brut rosè Champagne in 65% cacao dark chocolate, rolled in fragrant rose bud poudre. Throughout the Balkans, Persia and India, the rose is cherished for its delicate parfum. Regional cuisine celebrates the rose; its scent wafts from the nape of the neck and the insides of the wrists.
Vosges Chocolate-of-the-Month Club - $246 for six months
A 9 piece dark chocolate truffle gift box and other dark haut-chocolat creations arrive with the light of the full moon and follow the Celtic lunar cycle. Inside each delivery, we describe the significance of the lunar name and the vibrations of the moon in its phases of Full, New, Waxing and Waning as your body and senses ease into chocolate bliss.

Thanks to everyone who entered with so many wonderful stories of the dates they would choose and the touching reasons why.

But the good news is....Just in time for Valentine's you can order your very own for 10% off with the code "BEMINE".

Again, congrats Tara!

Cook and drain one (8 oz. pkg) macaroni (elbows, med. shells, twists, etc.) according to package directions; set aside. Melt 4 tbsp butter in large saucepan. Whisk in 4 tbsp flour , 1/2 tsp salt, and fresh ground pepper till well blended. Gradually stir in 1 cup milk and 1 cup cream. Still stirring constantly, bring to boil and boil 2 minutes; reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes. Add 2 cups shredded cheddar a little at a time and simmer 5 minutes more or till melted. Remove from heat, add macaroni and 1 small package of lobster meat and toss to coat. Pour into buttered baking dish. Sprinkle 1/2 cup buttered breadcrumbs over pan. Bake at 400 degrees for 20 minutes, until top is golden brown.

So it is in that spirit of silliness that I want to share a video with you. But first, a quick backstory: a few weeks ago I had to have a root canal, and since I am terrified of dentists, I decided to have it done under sedation. The interesting thing about sedation is that it causes short-term memory loss. In other words, you don't remember a thing from that first little pill until you wake up after a nap, even though you are conscious and talking (albeit totally loopy) for some time after the procedure. So H thoroughly enjoyed telling me all the funny things I said on the way home from the dentist - apparently I told him about 27 times how the cars were all going by two-by-two (I was seeing double) and when we got home I announced I was hungry and pulled 6 or 7 boxes of crackers and cookies out of the cabinet. But I didn't remember any of it!

So when I had to have a second bout of sedation dentistry a few days ago, I gave him permission to videotape me when he came to pick me up. It's not that I didn't believe the stories he told me about how I was after the procedure, it was just that I wanted to see them firsthand this time. So, without further ado, I present to you: "Sandy Says!"

PS. For my best friend who is most likely reading this..... thanks for letting us crash your place for the whole weekend and dealing with us. No worries though, we'll do it again this weekend, same time same place...............................kidding... or am I????? 

Since we've been having cold, snowy weather here in the northeast, a few minutes before I needed to leave, I bundled myself up and went outside to start my car so it could warm up a bit before I brought Ryan out. To my surprise, my car was covered with snow.

Hm, that was odd. My car is never covered with snow. I sputtered a bit to myself as I wrestled with the ice-covered trunk trying to get at my ice scraper, when it occured to me that the reason my ice scraper is in my trunk instead of my front seat is that H always cleans my car off for me. It's late January, we've been having snowstorms since October, and I have yet to shovel snow or scrape ice, because H always does it for me.

So instead of grumbling that I had to clear off my car myself, I thought about how sweet it is that I so rarely have to do it. I realized how much work it is, and how rarely I thank H for doing it for me. I was actually glad that I had to do it for myself for a change, because it finally dawned on me what a gift H has been giving me by doing it for me all the time. His NOT doing it served as a reminder to me to be grateful for all the times he DOES do it.

So the next time your sweetie doesn't unload the dishwasher, or fold the laundry, or make the bed, or put his dirty socks in the hamper, or hang up his wet towel, don't be mad. Be grateful for all the times he does do it!

CHICKEN BREASTS WITH ARTICHOKE HEARTS

3-4 skinless, boneless chicken breasts
Flour
2 tbsp. oil
2 tbsp. butter
2 tbsp. flour
1 tsp. salt
1/8 tsp. pepper
3 tbsp. brandy
2 tsp. lemon juice
1 1/2 c. chicken broth or bouillon
1 c. sour cream
1 can (or frozen pkg.) of artichoke hearts, cut into bite-size pieces

Pound and flour breasts and lightly brown them in oil. Line browned breasts in 9 x 13" baking dish, top with artichokes; set aside. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

In 2 quart saucepan, over low heat, melt butter. Whisk in 2 tablespoons flour, salt and pepper. Gradually whisk in brandy, lemon juice and chicken broth, stirring until thickened and smooth. Gradually stir in sour cream.

Pour mixture over chicken and vegetables. Cover baking dish tightly with foil and bake 1 hour.

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If I'm wrong, I'll admit it but by my best estimate this scenario has been played out by at least 95% of dating couples.

You've just finished a wonderful dinner together at a nice restaurant when the dashing young waiter named Joey approaches your table with a wink in his eye and a grin on his face and asks..."Did everyone save room for dessert?"

You've had your eye on the strategically placed dessert menu from the first moment you sat in the booth. Truthfully, you'd love one of each mouth-watering delicacy pictured in high resolution glossy print but instead you reply, in your most lady-like voice, "oh, no....I'm so full I couldn't eat another bite".

Your date, not at all burdened with public opinion, says...."Oh YEAH....I'll have the Molten Chocolate Lava Cake!"

The longest five minutes of your life slowly tick by as you try to convince your mind that you will NOT be tempted when Joey comes back with the dessert.

Joey almost skips to your table, plops down the mountain of fudge and excitedly proclaims...."I brought two spoons just in case!"

Your date picks up the spoon and dives in without hesitation.....the warm chocolate oozes out. You sit and stare, unable to form a complete thought as a feeling of temptation never before experienced in all of human history takes over.

Then it happens.....your date looks at you and with cake still in his mouth naively mumbles the words...."do you want some?"

To which you reply (oh yes....we've all replied)...."Well, maybe JUST a bite".

Welcome to JUST a Bite

This new blog category will be a collection of recipes, picture and ideas from the "She Just Got Married" community. Got a great one you'd love to share? Send it to: Recipes@SheJustGotMarried.com and we'll give you center stage! If you're already a featured blogger, feel free to post your favorites in the JUST a Bite category any time!

Here's one that's all chocolate lovers who need a quick fix will want to keep handy. We call them "Jiffy Cookies" because they are ready in 5 minutes (sometimes called No-Bake Cookies).

1. 2 cups sugar
2. 1 stick of butter
3. 1/2 cup milk
4. 1/3 cup cocoa powder (Not Dutch Process)
5. 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter (I've used crunchy, but if you go this route you should use a little more peanut butter overall, maybe 1/3 cup more).
6. 1 teaspoon vanilla
7. 2 1/2 cups quick cook oatmeal (NOT instant...but the 'One minute' kind)

Place sugar, butter, milk and cocoa in large saucepan, and bring to a boil, stirring occasionally. Boil for exactly one minute.

Remove from heat and stir in peanut butter and vanilla until peanut butter melts. Stir in oatmeal.

Drop by the spoonful onto waxed paper or a silicone baking mat, and allow to cool (although I must admit, it's delicious if you want to sneak JUST a bite right out of the pan). Enjoy!

 Stroll Down Memory Lane

I'm writing this Hot Tip from Disney World! We came here for my niece's wedding, but we also had an ulterior motive. We have a tradition in our family - "Disney every decade!" This is where Greg and I came on our honeymoon in 1990. Ten years later, in 2000, we brought an 8-year old daughter and a 5-year old son for fun with Mickey & Minnie. Now here we are again, in 2010, with an almost 18-year old Erin, and an almost-15 year old Matthew, and our 20th wedding anniversary is just around the corner.

As we took pictures holding up the big golf-ball-looking-thing at Epcot, I remembered Greg and I standing there for our first honeymoon picture as newlyweds. As our gondola glided through the hydroponic greenhouse display, I remember Greg dreaming out loud, "That's what I want to do someday!" And as the brilliantly colored fireworks exploded over our heads at closing time, I remembered the feelings I'd felt watching them before - first, with my newlywed husband, and second, with my amazing family.

This trip down memory lane has been GREAT for our marriage. Just like any other wife, there've been a few days over the past 20 years that I've wondered, "And WHY did I marry this man?" Returning to our honeymoon spot has been a wonderful reminder. I married Greg because of his faith in God... his love for me... his dreams for our family... and I'd do it all again in a heartbeat.

Take your own stroll down memory lane soon -- if not physically, then mentally. Read letters you sent to each other when you were dating. Look at your wedding pictures. Recall some of the magical memories you've made together. Instead of recounting recent marital nightmares, remember the hopes you held in your heart for a happy marriage, and celebrate those dreams that HAVE come true!

Wishing you a sweet stroll down memory lane~

Question: What are your experiences or suggestions? How did you make your choice on what to use?

While we've come a long way with options (and advertising!) it's still such a big and personal decision. What are your thoughts?

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:et me explain: My husband found out he was relocated and promoted within his company at the end of November, so I left my company in mid-December. After a whirlwind 2 week journey around the Northeast visiting our families for Christmas, we packed up our apartment and hauled our butts from Atlanta to Maryland on January 2nd!

It has definitely been a challenge moving to a new place where we do not know anyone or where anything is located (thank goodness for Garmin!). I had never even been to Maryland before January 2nd. We have stuck together as husband and wife through this crazy time, and I think that our move will ultimately bring us closer together. Today we installed curtains in our bedroom and living room and what an adventure it was! Neither of us had ever done anything like it - how sad is that? - and without a power drill we had to figure out a way to make things work with what we had.

I think the curtains look pretty good... now what to do behind our bed and about the lack of overhead lighting in the room. Any suggestions?

The pros of moving so far...we are a lot closer to my family in CT (my sister was our very first visitor last weekend!), we will finally see a snowy winter, we are out of the scary city, our new place is 2x the size of our last place, and I finally feel like I am a Northerner again. The cons - not knowing anyone, thin walls at our new apt complex + construction outside our window = not much sleep, being far far away from my husbands family, and ... well... that is it so far. We can't really give our hometown a detailed rating yet - it's only been two weeks. I'll let you know after a month.

I am excited to be in a new place in a new year with my new husband. I am starting a nanny job on Monday and have an interview with a teaching residency program at the beginning of February. If I am accepted into the program I will be teaching elementary school by the Fall (and I can honestly say that my dreams will have come true if I am teaching by the end of this year). I am so happy and thankful for our good fortune - and only hope that the best is yet to come.

Moving to a new state means living around different sports fans. We went to watch the Patriots v Ravens game last weekend and in honor of my new homestate, I sported the Raven's colors. My husband wore Falcons colors...he wasn't as openhearted to showing some love for a new team =0)

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24 years....I've lived in this house for half my life. I've raised all my children in this house and needless to say, it's full of memories.

And now - we're moving. A new beginning in a new city. New career, new friends, new home. It's a little overwhelming.

In preparation of putting our house up for sale I started painting my bedroom. Funny, I'd wanted to do it for a few years but it didn't really need it so I never had a lot of motivation to tackle such a big project. The walls are a beautiful mossy green, warm and cozy. But I decided to paint it with a more neutral color that will allow a potential buyer to picture their own décor when they see the room.

I came to that part of the room where I needed to close the door so I could paint behind it.  Let me say - I rarely close my bedroom door these days since all the kids are gone - which, is kind of a nice thing as far as the privacy issue goes because, well, it's not really an issue any more! That part is kind of nice! ♥

Back to the door....or, better said....to the 'back' of the door. When I closed it I saw 24 years of memories staring me in the face. Each person, including me and their dad, had put their mark on the door by measuring themselves against it. We even had a mark for the dog, "Bo", who has long since been gone. It started out a yearly ritual where I, as the dedicated mom, lined each of them up to measure and delight in how much each one had grown from the last mark! We'd make the mark, and write beside it the date and name of each person. We had a few gaps in years (because, well....life gets crazy, busy sometimes) but whenever one kid decided it was time to measure and mark, they all jumped in. The door has marks from about 12" high (the doggie's height) all the way up to 6'5"...Dad's mark.

I cried....all alone in this room where memories were made and marked.

I called my husband (who is out of town - in the town we're moving to, actually) and told him what happened. He let me cry without making me feel silly or uber-nostalgic. Then we laughed about it and decided....the door goes with us. Yes....sometimes you can take it with you!

It took every ounce of me not to bust out laughing in his face.  And I didn't.  But that moment made me fall in love with him all over again. Because of how cute he is.  And yes, that is cute to me. :)

This is what we got...

About the same time every year (that would be around June or July), I begin envisioning the coming Christmas as one where loved ones crowd into Grandma’s house where the sights and sounds and smells of Christmas meld our happy group into a picture-perfect family. Yeah, right!

While driving to Ft. Worth, TX, to my nephew’s house on Christmas Eve, we ran into the “ice storm from Hell”! However, after maneuvering around glass-like roads for 2 & 1/2 hours (for a distance that should have taken us 15 minutes), we did arrive safely. But, after we’d been welcomed by loving arms and a glowing fire, my brother’s parked Suburban slid down the icy driveway and into his son’s car. Thankfully, no real damage done.

I love being with my brother’s family for Christmas dinner because their traditional fare is steak and shrimp. Who doesn’t love that?! So, after a madcap gift exchange and playing games, we feasted on a Martha Stewart-worthy dinner. We were blissfully happy...for about an hour. That’s when my dad began his 24-hour bout of throwing up. Despite dosings of medicines and teas, we finally had to call an ambulance to take him to emergency. There, the doctors suspected a blocked intestine or a gall-bladder attack. But the mystery was solved when all the other family members suffered the same malady (my sister-in-law and I were the only exceptions). Even the 18-month old baby was also taken to the hospital emergency for IVs. It was truly a vicious bug!

Now, if you’re already retching yourself, after these described visions have been dancing in your head, let me give you the good news...I have never seen so many sick people putting their own needs aside to care for and comfort the others. It was an amazing demonstration of love and grace under fire. Sick people often reveal their true nature: (1) over-reacting with whiney, demanding, selfishness, or, (2) despite their discomfort they are concerned more for others. In this case, everyone definitely fit into category #2. It was a real demonstration of the Spirit of Christmas. Aren’t we often surprised to learn the most important life lessons in the most unexpected ways?  I was.  What a great gift!

Meet April Kuhlmann, owner of Once in Every Life Photography. "I'm a wedding and lifestyle portrait photographer, a minivan diving-mama to two rocking little girls, a wife of 10 happy years, a big sister, an aunt and a lover of exotic food (well that's what my aunt says anyway!) I am so lucky that I get the opportunity to capture the happiest moments of people's lives and I absolutely LOVE delivering images that I know will be looked at and loved for years and years."

Once in Every Life Photography is an on-location wedding and lifestyle team of photographers serving Birmingham and central Alabama as well as the Gulf Shores and Destin areas.

Capturing the moments and Celebrating all the fun times of life!

April's work featured on MTV!

Hollywood Crush, a feature on MTV.Com, has written about The Hillywood Show’s latest undertaking, NEW MOON PARODY.

April was lucky enough to be able to accompany the cast to Forks, Washington and take promotional stills for the parody.

Become a Facebook Fan or visit Once in Every Life Photography's blog to see more of April's work, contact information and availability for being a part of your special day.

I don't think I was aware of my own quirkiness until I was married. It isn't until someone else has to deal with your quirks that you realize that they are quirks. I never really had to admit to how geographically challenged I am until H saw me looking up directions to a place I've been to 50 times. I could easily ignore my dentist-phobia until H suggested I transfer to his dentist and I had to admit I hadn't been to a dentist in 15 years. (I know, I know! But don't worry, I've been to one now - now that they've invented sedation dentistry, aaaahhhh.) I didn't realize how much I hated walking into big parties until H was always with me and I found myself constantly making him go in first. But H sees and accepts all these quirks and neuroses without question or judgment. He tries to make things easier for me by doing things like getting me a GPS, or setting up a dentist appointment for me and going with me. But he doesn't try to "fix" me, and I love him for that.

Yesterday I had a kind of a rough day and instead of laughing at the dopey reasons I was upset, or even trying to tell me why I didn't need to be upset, H just held me in his arms and let me snurfle all over his shirt until I got it out of my system. Then he told me that he loved me and that everything would be okay, and then I knew it would be. And it always will be okay, because he will always love me, neuroses and all.

Aside from being adorable and functional, they're from a company owned by a former percussionist with the Boston Symphony Orchestra (who happens to be an acquaintance of my father-in-law, although that's not who the gift was from), so they have an interesting story behind them. Another favorite is a small serving dish engraved with our names and wedding date. Its style is traditional and homey, yet it's elegant enough to fit in with our fancy china and crystal.

We received many, many thoughtful and appreciated gifts from family and friends, and I love them all (frankly, I'm a bit disappointed we don't have any funny stories about an ugly, tasteless painting or a hideous lamp we have to put on display when the giver comes to visit), but these two have a special place in my heart.

Which wedding presents are especially dear to your heart, and why? And have you ever given a wedding present that was a particular hit with the recipients? Please share your stories!

What began as a quest, to find and photograph numbers that would celebrate a special day in founder, Julie's life, soon became an obsession. “ Intentional or not, there is real artistry in the way fonts play against backgrounds,” she notes. “ Once you develop an awareness, you realize that numbers have personalities and importance.

There are infinite reasons to give a frame the date heirloom gift. Some of our favorites include:

Wedding - Anniversary - Engagement - Birth - Retirement - Christening/Baptism - First Communion - Confirmation - Bar/Bat Mitzvah - Graduation - Promotion - Housewarming- Championship - Hospitality - Thank you

Frame the [date] is giving this beautiful black traditionally profiled solid wood frame, handmade & hand-painted, accompanied by a white mat with black core, features black- and-white photography. to one lucky winner! (Pictured below).

To be entered to win, leave your comment (and for fun...tell us the special celebration you'd love to commemorate with this beautiful frame).

CONTEST ENDS Tuesday, JANUARY 19TH.

You can order wedding invitations and stationery a minimum of 4-6 months prior to your wedding date.

Mail out your wedding invitations about 8 weeks before the wedding. Never less than 4 weeks prior to your wedding date.

If guests will be traveling from afar, you can send earlier or mail save the date cards up to 1 year in advance. This will allow your guests to mark their calendars and take the necessary time off work for traveling.

Invitation Designed by My Personal Artist, Michelle Mospens

Tropical Message Invitation by My Personal Artist

Pete and Andrea are on a mission attempting to pay for their wedding by recycling 400,000 aluminum cans.

Here's a bit of their story:

"Ok, the whole “mission” thing sounds a bit dramatic, but it’s the truth. Our relationship has been a bit off kilter from the beginning, and why should our wedding be any different? We don’t want anything huge or extravagant… really, we’re planning a potluck, DIY decorations, and getting the help from friends and family for flowers, pictures, the sword-fighting battle, homebrew beer, even the cake.

But even simple weddings cost more than a few dollars. We don’t really have much extra cash sitting around, since we’re just starting out. Add that to the fact that environmental responsibility plays a big part in our lives, and we hatched the crazy plan. Pay for the wedding – with recycling. Aluminum recycling is one of the most sustainable and useful forms of recycling. We’re shooting for 400,000 aluminum cans – approximately 5 tons of empty cans. We would like to get married on July 31 – which gives us 7 months to hit the goal."

Ok...to read the rest and to find out how you can help you'll have to click HERE (this will take you to their site appropriately called "Wedding Cans").

As Pete and Andrea say.....Saving the environment and throwing a killer party… what could be better?

I saw this article that was written by the very popular sex therapist, Dr. Laura Berman. While I, personally, do not encourage any type of illegal activity (really folks...there are laws against public indescency so the old phrase "don't get caught with your britches down" should be taken literally!). BUT...I'm all for a little risque adventure and the thrill of the "forbidden". So go ahead...read on and then share your thoughts. Any one ready to confess? :-)

Article:

There's nothing like a little risk to spice up your sex life. Having sex in an unusual or forbidden spot can restore the spontaneity that might have gone missing from your life. It's novel and exciting to grab your partner while you're on a long flight; or you can do it in your car or at the beach. Not only are you being naughty, but the risk of getting caught adds a real thrill.

The endorphin rush of being a bad girl (with a bad boy) sets the stage for some pretty powerful sexual fireworks. You don't have a lot of time. You may even find that different surroundings make your partner seem new all over again. Remember how it was in the beginning?

For those who don't consider themselves high-risk material, try having sex in a less public, but still unexpected, spot. Surprise him while he's working in the basement, for instance, or make him break a sweat in the backyard without even touching the lawnmower.

Whatever you do, get out of the bedroom for a new view! (Just don't do it too often, or it will lose its charge.)

We live in an age full of technological "enhancements". SmartPhones, iPods, satellite radio, instant messaging, DSL, Twitter, GPS, laptops...the list goes on and on. Technology can be overwhelming, it can be a huge time waster, or it can be a major advantage, if you use it correctly. A Roomba saves time on housework, Facebook keeps us in touch with family and friends across the country and across the world, a quick text to hubby saves a duplicate trip to the grocery store, Amazon.com saves hours of shopping time, a GPS saves us from driving around lost. And technology can also enhance your marriage.

How? With so many quick ways to communicate, it's easy to send your sweetie an "I love you" message during the day - text it to him so you won't interrupt him in a meeting, or IM him while he's working at the computer, or post it as your Facebook status so it pops up on his SmartPhone.

Personally, I'm a big fan of random e-mails that H can read at his convenience. (And save to read over and over again.) When we had just begun dating, I got in the habit of sending him lists, often tied to a particular "anniversary". For example, to celebrate 100 days since our first date, I emailed him a list of 100 things that I love about him.

I also use email to build anticipation for a hot date. I send him cryptic quizzes and base what I'll wear and how I'll do my hair on his answers. For example, his answer to the question "Upstairs or downstairs?" might determine whether I wear my hair up or down; his answer to "Katherine or Audrey?" might determine whether I wear an elegant pantsuit or a little black dress and pearls. I've even been known to send a provocative photo or two to his phone giving him a hint of what I might be wearing underneath said pantsuit or LBD that evening!

It's all too easy to get swept up in technology and let it keep you apart from your sweetie, if you spend all evening tweeting instead of talking, or if you grab your phone to text a friend during a romantic dinner. But look for ways to make technology work to improve your love life! It can be a very fun (and rewarding) challenge.

So yesterday afternoon I came in from a long day (but fun day) of work. It was fun and for that, I'm thankful because for part of it I had to walk downtown for about 2 blocks in the 22 degree weather. That was NOT the fun part...and did I mention I have 'the funk'?

My adorable 6' 5" husband (I always tell him he's so 'cute') came walking into my home office with a cup of hot chocolate and handed it to me. I said "oh...thank you....are you having a cup?" He said "no...I just thought you'd like some".

My heart melted. I was warm all over before I even took a drink. This, my friends.....is love.

I was grocery shopping and had just tucked the baby back in the car and unloaded my groceries into the trunk, and I glanced around to see where the nearest carriage return was. I'm one of those folks who is ridiculously conscientious about not leaving my cart in the middle of the lot, having gotten many dings on my car from others who weren't so conscientious. Plus, it was frigidly cold and I felt bad for the guy who has to collect the carts from all over the lot. But now that I have a baby, I'm very uncomfortable leaving him alone in the car for even the few seconds it takes to return my cart to the nearest corral. But just as I started to run across the lot with my cart, the guy who collects the carts saw me gestured to me to leave it there, and called to me, "It's OK, I know you have a kid!" It was very sweet, and it made me feel really good about people.

The same feeling applies to marriage: those little gestures can make you feel really good about yourself, and your spouse. When H brings me a mug of cocoa after dinner, or surprises me by cooking dinner, or clears the snow off my car in the morning, or tells me my hair looks cute today or he likes the sweater I have on, it gives me a little boost that makes the whole day better. So I try to do the same for him. I cook his favorite dinner when I know he's had a long day, I put away his laundry, I bring in the recycling bins, I rub his shoulders or his feet before bed. It doesn't take a lot of effort, but it gives him a little lift.

What little things have you done for your honey lately - and what little things has he done for you?

The Proposal Story is offering a Grand Prize of a $1,000 USD Tiffany & Co. Gift Certificate to the winner of the "Top Proposal Story Contest".

Simply sign up and create a proposal story. After you have completed writing your story select "Published to Public", and your story is automatically entered.

Invite all your friends to read your story and vote by hovering over our 5 diamond rating system. The more friends who vote and the higher the rating you recieve, the better chance you have of winning the $1,000 Tiffany & Co. Gift Certificate!

Contest starts on 12:00:00 a.m. Pacific Time on November 1, 2009 and ends at 11:59:59 p.m. Pacific Time on, Sunday, January 31, 2010

For centuries, the people of India used jute, the plant which burlap is made from, to make rope, paper and handwoven fabrics.

The first mill to mass produce burlap and other jute products was established near Calcutta, India in 1855.

Ta Da....Who knew? Better question.....who knew it could be SO pretty?!

Look what we found....

From the beautiful blog of "I-DiY" - burlap screen printed DIY table runners. Taking down your holiday decor? Add a touch of something beautiful and fresh...even if it's 'vintage-fresh'. Using a do-it-yourself silkscreen printing kit, Julie, from EAB Designs, created these custom burlap table runners for her dining room table. **Le swoon**

How about some wedding inspiration?

Belgium Burlap Linen Wedding Ring Pillow with Black Velvet Button by Etsy designer, The Blooming South.

Thinking Spring? Looking at these just makes me smile.Tara, from Blondie 'N' SC, made these these cheerful party centerpieces with daffodils and peach jars from Traders Joe's.

Custom burlap wedding invitations by Paper Design Ink create a rustic, earthy design that's beautiful and warm.

So yeah, baby, it may still be cold outside but these bits of inspiration warm my heart.

Two years ago tonight, in the middle of a blizzard, H took me out for dinner, and just before we ordered dessert, pulled out a pitch pipe and blew a note. Immediately, three men got up from the table behind us, stood with H next to our table, and proceeded to serenade me with a beautiful barbershop rendition of "Let Me Call You Sweetheart". And then H got down on one knee, presented me with a breathtakingly gorgeous diamond ring, and asked me to marry him. Unable to speak for a moment, and with my hand clapped over my mouth, I frantically nodded my head until I was finally able to squeak out the word "Yes!" (H had made me promise him, weeks earlier, that when he asked me to marry him, he would hear the word "yes" right away.) 

He slipped the ring on my finger, and with tears of happiness running down my face and a huge grin on his, they serenaded me again with the song "Sweet and Lovely" (which contains the appropriate lyrics, "Soon we'll marry, you'll be my blushing bride"). It was an absolutely magical moment.

I'm not generally a date-oriented person; I would never remember my friends' birthdays without assistance from a carefully notated calendar (and Facebook), I forget when I started my last job and what year I bought my car and what month Flag Day is. But I know that I wrote to H for the first time on August 27, I met him on September 15, we said "I love you" on October 11, he asked me to marry him on January 1, we got married on April 12, and our son was born on November 2. Those are dates that I will always celebrate, every single year, for the rest of my life.

And every time one of those dates rolls around again, I will remember how our love has grown over the years, and be thankful once again for this amazing man who loves me, and whom I love.

So today is not only the end of a year but the end of a decade.

Wow.

But like the quote, it's the beginning of something new. So here we go with those New Year's resolutions. Sure...let's all get fit...stop bad habits, eat healthier...etc. But what are your Resolutions of the Heart? Really....isn't that what matters anyway?

One of my favorite old movies is "When Harry Met Sally". Classic romantic comedy.

The last scene of the movie Harry and Sally are at a New Year's Eve party. Harry says to Sally...

"..And I love that you are the last person I want to talk to before I go to sleep at night. And it's not because I'm lonely, and it's not because it's New Year's Eve. I came here tonight because when you realize you want to spend the rest of your life with somebody, you want the rest of... your life to start as soon as possible."

"Every new beginning is some beginning's end." Isn't it time to stop waiting and start living from the heart....today?

Happy New Year....Happy New Beginning!

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Yes....you read that right. A guy named Josh entered the contest to win a Sultry Rendezvous 'Connections' Gift Box....and we drew his name. Honestly - it was fair and square.

No, that's not an actual picture of Josh....but it might be when his wife finds out! When we shared the good news with him he wrote back with this message:

My wife has no idea about it, but is home during the days...so I'm sure when she sees it, she'll be surprised! Thanks again!!!

Congratulatios Josh & Mrs. Josh.....enjoy!!

Wedding gifts are often the type of things we tend to save for a special occasion: delicate china, fragile crystal, elaborate silverware, elegant vases and serving dishes, lavish candlesticks. But don't stick them in a drawer, waiting for a "special occasion" to use them! They are meant to be enjoyed. There's no reason NOT to set your table with the crystal candlesticks from Aunt Mary, the expensive china from cousin Charlie, the fancy silver setting from your parents, the handwoven tablecloth your college roommate brought back from her semester abroad in Ireland. Even if you're only having leftovers for dinner, why not serve them in style? Enjoy the beautiful gifts from family and friends every day, don't wait six months for a big dinner party or holiday to bring them out. Your family and friends gave you these gifts for you to enjoy, so enjoy them!

On this day, I was in Florida on a business trip.  The hubby joined me on this trip because it was in Orlando, FL and we figured we could make a mini trip out of it.  I had to work in the morning setting up a booth at a convention center.  When I was done about midday, I came back to the hotel room and we immediately left for our day at Sea World.  We walked around and saw some shows.  I love dolphins so I was excited after we saw the dolphin show to go check them out during feeding time and in the underwater viewing area.

I was having so much fun feeding the dolphins.  Please note, I was not a fan of holding the slimy little fish in my hand. It was so great to see the dolphins swimming around so up close and personal.

 

The hubby took some shots of me as I was oozing with excitement.  He knew how happy dolphins made me and I was so engrossed in the dolphins swimming that I barely noticed anything going on around me. 

Then a really nice gentlemen was able to take a picture of the both of us.

 

He got down on one knee and proposed

 

Of course I said yes and was totally amazed and we couldn't even get a good picture of us because I kept moving like a little kid because I had no idea what to do with myself!  I cried, but I cried tears of happinness.  It was a day that I will never forget because it was completely unexpected and it was perfect.  Perfect for us.  

And that is our proposal story. 

Today, we are getting ready to plunge into 2010!  I hope you enjoyed this little stroll down my memory lane.  I know I sure did.  

What is your proposal story?  Come on, you know you want to share it with me!

So romantic....he got down on one knee.....

She said YES....

♥ And kissed him ♥

This is when she found out that he had both of their entire families come in to be with them on their special day! SO shocked...no clue!

Congratulations to my cousin, Dallas and his beautiful fiancée, Britain.

They made a video that is so sweet. Click HERE to watch.

A woman from New England became a missionary teacher in a land-locked country in central Africa. She loved her work and she loved her students, but one day they found her crying in her classroom and asked her why she was so sad. She admitted that she was feeling homesick, and said that although she loved her new home, she missed the sound of the ocean. A few days later, one of her students came up to her desk and placed a large, beautiful seashell in front of her.

Amazed and touched, she thanked him for the precious gift and asked where he had gotten it. "From the ocean," was the answer. "But the ocean is a hundred miles away - you must have walked for hours to get there!" the teacher exclaimed. The student simply shrugged and replied, "Long walk part of gift."

So any time someone in my family spends hours to find the perfect gift, or goes to 5 different stores to find the right size, or waits in line for hours to get an in-demand item, the explanation is simply, "Long walk part of gift."

One of my favorite "long walk" gifts this year was a photo book from H. He put together a collection of photos from the beginning of the year through Christmas and had them made into a gorgeous coffee table book. The pictures include a visit to his alma mater last winter that I had nearly forgotten, the first photos of my "baby bump" from last spring, our summer vacation hiking in the mountains, several shows that we and various family members had performed in during the year, get-togethers with family and friends, baby pictures of Ryan, and lots of holiday photos from Thanksgiving and Christmas. It took him hours to collect the photos, arrange them, and add captions, most of which he did at around 2 o'clock in the morning to keep it a secret from me! It was most definitely a labor of love, and it's a gift that our whole family will treasure for years to come. Long walk is sometimes the very best part of gift.

So, thank goodness for the hubby because I probably would have slept till lord only knows when.  Even after he was poking, throwing his pj lounge pants on me, and harassing me it still took me about 10 minutes to physically get out of the bed.  

Oh Monday morning, how I am NOT a fan of you.

I had a friend who grew up in a wealthy family. Her father was a successful businessman in a large city where he was a prominent figure in the community. My friend married a wonderful man but his parents were typical middle class, hard working people.

One day her husband asked if she would make a certain kind of cake.....just like his mother did. Her response? "Fine.....I'll make cake like your mom if you'll make 'bread' like my dad!!"  (*FYI...people used to use the word 'bread' when they were talking about 'money'*).

Ouch.  Can you say 'sensitive newlywed'?

Wow....why haven't I thought of this before now? This year I didn't have my mom with me cooking our Christmas dinner. I was on my own for the first time and I was going to attempt to make her famous dressing (or stuffing).  She gave me the recipe before she left town to spend the holiday in Texas with her parents...."about a tablespoon of sage.....a pinch of salt.....a little bit of butter.....and, oh....I don't know exactly....a few jalapenos". A FEW JALAPENOS? How many is a few?

Yes....her famous dressing is famous because it has just the right amount of heat and spiciness to turn bland dressing into WORLD FAMOUS. And I'm supposed to just know how many 'a few' is? But it was a tradition that we couldn't have missing at our table. So I gave it a try and I'm really proud to say it was fantastic!

The story about my friend suddenly came to my mind while I was making the dressing . This tradition was something my mom was handing down to me that I, most likely, will pass on to my daughter some day.

But what about my husband's traditions? What were his comfort foods at his holiday table when he was growing up? What did his mom make that was special to him? Who would pass down HER special recipes?

I felt sad for him and bit guilty that I hadn't thought of it until now. So I am going to make it a point to ask his mom if I could have one of her special recipes to use for our next Christmas dinner. And when I pass down recipes to our children it will be 'a little bit of this....a pinch or two of that....and the perfect blend of two family traditions'. World famous!

Photo Source - Kissing Know How

Seems the Druids are at it again (didn't they get credit for the origin of the 'honeymoon' too?). This time they show up in the tradition of kissing under the mistletoe. What a fun bunch of people they had to be...since they seem to always have 'love' on their minds.

So a little history of the Mistletoe in case you are interested:

The magical tradtions - From the earliest times mistletoe has been one of the most magical, mysterious, and sacred plants of European folklore. It was considered a bestower of life and fertility; a protectant against poison; and an aphrodisiac.

The mistletoe of the sacred oak was especially sacred to the ancient Celtic Druids. On the sixth night of the moon white-robed Druid priests would cut the oak mistletoe with a golden sickle. Two white bulls would be sacrificed amid prayers that the recipients of the mistletoe would prosper.

Later, the ritual of cutting the mistletoe from the oak came symbolize the emasculation of the old King by his successor. Mistletoe was long regarded as both a sexual symbol and the "soul" of the oak. It was gathered at both mid-summer and winter solstices, and the custom of using mistletoe to decorate houses at Christmas is a survival of the Druid and other pre-Christian traditions. (Mistletoe is still ceremonially plucked on mid-summer eve in some Celtic and Scandinavian countries.)

In the Middle Ages and later, branches of mistletoe were hung from ceilings to ward off evil spirits. In Europe they were placed over house and stable doors to prevent the entrance of witches.

It was also believed that the oak mistletoe could extinguish fire. This was associated with an earlier belief that the mistletoe itself could come to the tree during a flash of lightning.

In parts of England and Wales farmers would give the Christmas bunch of mistletoe to the first cow that calved in the New Year. This was thought to bring good luck to the entire herd.

Kissing under the mistletoe is first found associated with the Greek festival of Saturnalia and later with primitive marriage rites. Mistletoe was believed to have the power of bestowing fertility, and the dung from which the mistletoe was thought to arise was also said to have "life-giving" power.

In Scandinavia, mistletoe was considered a plant of peace, under which enemies could declare a truce or warring spouses kiss and make-up.

And for those who wish to observe the correct etiquette: a man should pluck a berry when he kisses a woman under the mistletoe, and when the last berry is gone, there should be no more kissing!

Merry Kiss-mas to all!

For starters.....what, exactly, is a Honeymoon Registry?

According to our good friends at Wikipedia it's a service, typically on the internet, that assists engaged and married couples in financing their honeymoon. Yes...just like a gift registry.

Honeymoon Registries allow couples to set up a honeymoon fund making it easy for friends and family to help couples afford their dream vacation. Couples can also shop any site and include all their honeymoon must-haves. Everything from luggage to gift certificates for dinners, shows, events, and more can be added to your honeymoon registry. There is no easier way to plan your honeymoon.

Guests have the convenience to use their credit card (studies show people give 34% more when they can use a credit card!) to give you "part" of your honeymoon. They can call, mail, or fax in their order too. Instead of a toaster oven they can give you a romantic dinner on the beach.

Is it easy to use? Oh yes!! Sites like HoneymonWishes (part of Project Wedding) Wishpot allow you to creatHoe your registry and custom tailor it to create the honeymoon you want.

Photo Source

Being connected to a community of Marriage and Relationship blogs has allowed me to discover some pretty interesting topics and content. This one caught my eye and made me do a double-take....ways to RUIN Sex?

This post is from a wonderful blog called "Simple Marriage" written by Dr. Corey Allan, husband, father, author, speaker, as well as a Marriage and Family Therapist with a Ph.D. in Family Therapy. But in spite of the formality he says he and his family are pretty informal). Yeah....they seem to be pretty normal! 

It’s really not all that difficult to ruin sex – and if this is your goal, simply follow these suggestions and you’re sure to end up in a barren, sexless marriage that’ll allow both of you to feel isolated and alone.

Sex is so easy to mess up due to the feelings often associated with it being so vulnerable and tied the core of who we are. Our sexuality is affected so easily by self-esteem, emotional insecurities, pressures, criticisms, and expectations.

So to effectively ruin sex for your spouse, follow these steps:

1. Expect sex simply because you’re married.

Every marriage partner should fulfill their marital “duty” therefore they owe you sex. It’s one of the benefits of being married. They said “I do” to you – so they should “do you.”

2. Have sex the same time and place every week.

This way neither of you will have to wonder when or how sex will occur. “Saturday night – 9:30 p.m. in the bed.” Just like clock work – who really wants spontaneity and chance when it comes to their sex life?

3. Follow the routine each time.

Be sure to follow the same steps and plays each time. It’s way too much work to come up with different things to do together. And after all, variety and spice aren’t necessary for sex, right?

4. Be sure to be intoxicated so you can loosen up.

After all, sex is really only about you. If your drinking is a turn off to your spouse, tough. If they love you then they’ll just have to get over it.

5. Only touch your spouse with the goal of sex in mind.

Who really needs non-sexual touch? Save the hugs, kisses, holding hands crap for the build up to the deed. That way your partner will clearly know that sex and touch go hand in hand. No chance for missed signals or misunderstandings. How great would that be?

6. Skip the foreplay and go straight for the gusto.

In the fast paced world we live in, who really has the time to slowly build up to great sex? It simply takes too much work to bother with all that extra stuff. Stop wasting time and get right to the intercourse. Besides, you both have to work in the morning and need your sleep.

7. Keep your clothes on during sex.

There really is little need to get completely naked during sex. It simply adds more work afterwards because you have to get dressed again.

8. Criticize your spouse’s sexual performance.

I think it’s called tough love. How else is your spouse supposed to know the areas they need to improve? If they are going to keep up with your abilities in bed they need to know where they suck (oh wait, encouraging them where and what to focus on would improve things, so disregard this point).

9. Criticize their physical appearance.

As your partner ages and perhaps lets themselves go, be sure to inform them how much that turns you off. This will encourage them to do something about it, which only helps both of you in the long run.

10. Have sex with the TV on.

You want to be sure that you don’t let sex get in the way of your favorite shows. Keep the TV on the entire time, that way you can watch the latest American Idol’s hopes get crushed while celebrating the love and affection you share with your spouse. What a winning combination!

11. Answer the phone during sex.

You never know if the call may be important, and you really can’t trust voicemail. The same rule applies for text messages and emails. Reply to them ASAP, after all, you don’t need to use your hands during sex, might as well send a few texts.

12. Tweet about it before, during, and after.

In our social media saturated world, be sure to let everyone else know what’s going on with your sex life. After all, if something happens to you and you don’t Tweet it or update it via your status on Facebook – did it really happen?

13. Get sex over with as fast as possible – as long as you’re satisfied.

Sex is really all about you. No need to ask your partner if there’s anything you could do for them. Assume everything is fine unless they say something.

14. Get away as fast as possible once you’re finished.

The sooner you’re done, the sooner you’ll be able to get some sleep. Save the talking till tomorrow at breakfast. And no need to cuddle or touch each other, refer back to rule 5.

 

***There is something about when you are in bed and wake up in the morning and see your wife's leg showing a bit over the covers, or even better, if you sleep in your underwear it's nice to see turn over in the covers and get a sneak peek of my wife's booty.  They can even be granny panties but the fact that you can see her booty even when sometimes the underwear is slipping off a bit.  That just makes me think, Dam my wife is hot.***

Now ladies, do we ever think about this?  His wife was knocked out sleeping the whole time he was thinking about this, but he tells us that it makes his morning and so happy to be her husband.  She had no idea that she was being "sexy", but the little things such as showing some skin while snoring (she probably wasn't snoring) shows that our husbands are always paying attention.

Now, I answered to him that I do wear pajamas when I sleep (it's cold in the winter when i get up!) and that the only skin my husband would see is my feet because I refuse to wear socks while sleeping (i know, such a pet peeve of mine), but after I heard that... I made it a point to "spice things up" a bit. 

So, what do you think?  Does this work vice versa?

photo source

Yes...I am married. Yes...I am lovin' it.

So you may wonder whether Mr. Married and Lovin' it and I ever have a less than perfect day (or you may not wonder at all...I've learned that we tend to think the world thinks about us much more than it actually does...in fact, it's usually too busy thinking about itself to care much about you).

But I'm going to share this anyway. Truth be known...I tend to be a 'glass half full' kind of girl. Even worse - I've been known to say "if my glass is half full that must mean refills are on the way".  WoooHoooo!! Life is a bowl of cherries ....with whip cream! YEAY!!!

That really annoys some people. I've been called The Queen of Denial....Little Miss Perpetual Sunshine and other fun phrases that basically just mean - her happy go lucky attitude is driving me NUTS!

So the other day my hubby and I were having coffee - like we do every...single...morning. I have trouble forming complete sentences without my morning cup o' java while my hubby, on the other hand, doesn't even have that scratchy morning voice. His brain is in full function mode the minute he wakes up. And, in fact, he says he does his best work in the morning.

This is where the Capricorn/Cancer difference is obvious.

We were having a conversation and I was attempting to share a thought or, worst case scenario, tell him what my crazy dream was....I don't remember. All I remember is he made some remark like "you're not making sense....get to the point".

Ahhhhhhh - if I'd had a bowl of cherries I might have tossed it across the room at him. But instead I got my half full cup of coffee and headed straight to the kitchen for a much needed refill. I opened a cabinet door and....THIS IS THE TRUTH....I accidentally slammed it shut because it got caught on the sleeve of my robe.

From the other room he said "I know you're mad". And for a minute - I WAS! But I got so tickled at the fact that I really had NOT slammed the cabinet door that I just started laughing at the absurdity of the situation.

I went back into the den and said 'you're not going to believe this but the slamming door was an accident'. He said "I'm sorry...sit down....finish your thought and let's start over".

In those few seconds I knew I had a choice....hold on to that anger or let it go. Really...was it worth ruining our entire day over? Was he a bit insensitive for saying "get to the point"? Yes...I think so. Did I have the right to argue my stance of "I'm just not a morning person like you"?

I think the important question is "Did I want to be right or happy?"

As simple as it sounds - the life I have is really up to me. So call me what you will but that morning I put my 'happy girl hat' on and had a great day....and the two of us had a fantastic night.

Let me be the first to admit that H and I have a few "secret passwords" of our own. Well, maybe not passwords, exactly, but we do have some secret shorthand expressions that we share. For example, H often signs his e-mails to me with the letters "YFCP", which stands for "your fan club president". This particular secret code isn't exclusive to the two of us; as a matter of fact, I'd heard him use the expression with his close friends when we had just begun dating, and I knew he considered me someone special the first time he used it with me.

But there are a few others that are unique to us, ones that we came up with together, such as "GOOMHDB" (pronounced "goom-dib"), which stands for "Get out of my head, David Blaine!". Yes, it's from that viral YouTube video spoofing David Blaine's street magic specials. H and I have a tendency to finish each other's sentences or to say exactly the same thing at the same time, and every time it happens, one of us will say that phrase - so it became easier to just shorthand it.

There's something incredibly intimate about being able to pack so much meaning into a few letters that you know only the two of you understand. We can be in a room full of people at a party, and one of us will say, "GOOMHDB" and we'll both giggle at this secret joke that no-one else gets. It gives us both a sense of "you and me against the world" even when the world isn't particularly against us at the moment. It's silly, and romantic, and very serious, all at the same time. It reminds me that H will always be by my side, that he will always be the one person that I share everything with, and that he and I will always be a team, whatever comes our way. Because after all, we are each other's FCP!

Sultry Rendezvous™

Pictured - The Connections Box

Do you know your mate’s desires? Do they know yours? Push your inhibitions to the side as you connect with, discover and challenge your lover with this exciting board game. This game opens the way to discuss your desires and fantasies with your partner and maybe even get them fulfilled. Nobody is a loser in this game.

This box includes the board game, soft blindfold, high end massage oil, rash free shave cream, safe sex kit and our signature Sultry Rendezvous™ invitation and instructions to plan your date.

From the founder: "At Sultry Rendezvous™, our mission to keep couples connecting, growing and loving. We have taken a lot of time and effort to select the classiest of products to maintain the romance in relationships or to help restore it."

So......When was the last time you had a Sultry Rendezvous^TM?

**Leave a Comment to be entered to win**

Contest ends Dec. 22nd

From the dress to the invitations to the cake and decor....let your personality sparkle and shine on your winter wedding day!

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Silver and white with crystal accents can add glamour to your winter wedding.

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Or update the traditional "Christmas theme" with contemporary shades of green.

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Our own featured blogger - "Fun Times of Married Life"

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Wishpot is doing a “Wish It-Win It-Give It” giveaway where you can use your wish list to win prizes for yourself AND your favorite charity! Each day for a week starting Dec 21st items from the Wish It Win It home page are being raffled! So start adding items now!

And the BEST part?

If you win, each brand will be generously donating not one but two products; one to you and the second to a charity of your choice.

Photo Source

Article by: Dr. Laura Berman

We all want to know how much everyone else is doing it, right? Curiosity about the normal frequency for monogamous sex is very common. It must be the American way to wonder if we're keeping up with the Joneses in our bedrooms too!

So here it is…are you ready? The average monogamous couple has sex zero, two, or nine times per week — depending on their age, the weather, the number of babies present, and how well they did at work that day. The bottom line? There is no answer, since so many incalculables are always at play.

That being said, I advise my patients to try not to let more than two weeks pass without sex. (Exceptions naturally include recent childbirth, illness, or severe emotional or relationship issues.) Sex reminds monogamous couples of the special bond they share only with each other, which is why I encourage couples in a rut to push themselves to be more sexual, more frequently.

Many couples obsess over this question because they look back longingly on the early days of their relationship, when sex was abundant. However, it's normal for the frequency of sex to decline as your relationship progresses and for the quality of the sex to change, as well. Instead of worrying about how much everybody else is doing it, focus on making "it" better for you!

This year I wasn't thinking of decorating either because 1. We have a bigger apt, but I refuse to store things and take up space for 11 months out of the year, 2. Don't have money to be spending on decorations, and 3. We are not having any Xmas parties at our apt or gatherings so I feel like we can do without.  BUT, I couldn't resist on buying the below:

On Monday I was sick and stayed home from work.  I was in bed all day until I had my doctor's appointment.  After the doctor's appointment I head over to Walgreen's to get my prescription.  I had some time to wait before it was done so I ventured down the Xmas aisle.  They had a lot of cute stuff that I would have loved to decorate our apartment with, but I contained myself.  UNTIL I saw this cute little very glittery Xmas decoration.  Since we don't have any Xmas decorations or a tree, I decided that I REALLY wanted to get this.  When I looked at the price, I realized that I couldn't walk out of there without it because it was only .99 CENTS!  So I purchased this little Xmas tree along with my prescription and made my way home.  I set it down in the middle of our coffee table and went straight to bed.  When the hubby came home, I knew he would notice it right away since it's the first thing you will see when you walk into our apartment.  When the hubby comes to the bedroom to see how I'm doing, I wake up and I immediately ask him "How do you like our Xmas tree?" (in a raspy nasally sickly voice).  He starts laughing and says he likes it.  

Cha Ching! Point for me!

Now, people might think it's crazy that I haven't decorated and don't plan on it.  We won't be celebrating Xmas in our apt let alone in the state we live in as we will be traveling to CT to my grandmother's.  So, to me it wasn't a big deal.  But it did make me a little depressed that I had nothing of Xmas up, of course until I bought this little .99 cent tree that is about 4 inches tall.  Surprising how that little tree makes me smile every time I see it.  

To me, my itty bitty tree is all I need to make my apartment Christmas cheery.   :)

I think jazz music is a mystery. And I think the Beatles got it right.

I think being in love makes life spectacular.

I think the sun will rise tomorrow morning and I think my heart and lungs will supply my body the exact amount of blood and oxygen I need for the day.

I think puppies are fantastic!!

I think the miracle of birth should be witnessed by everyone at some time in their lives.

And I think children dying of starvation is an atrocity and an outrage.

I think good running shoes are a must. And I think sassy, impractical shoes are a must.

I think my children are perfect. And I think "casualties of war" should be obliterated from our vocabulary.

I think aging gracefully is for sissies and I think karaoke is for everyone!

I think good grades are highly overrated. And I think a good nap can make all the difference.

I think every girl should know how to change a flat tire....

...and I think chivalry is still alive all around us.

And I think Henry Ford was right when he said:

"Whether you think you can or you think you can't......you are right".

Some images make us feel happy and some hard to think of...but it doesn't mean they don't exist.

SO....what do you think???

Snow washes away imperfections and gives an aura of completeness to everything it covers. It smooths over rough edges and softens whatever it touches. And love does the same thing.

Between the long to-do list preparing for the holidays, the sleep deprivation of having a new baby, and juggling what feels like 20 appointments and commitments every week, H and I have been a little stressed out lately. So the other night we were working on a project together when suddenly we just snapped at each other and then retreated to our "neutral corners": me to the living room with the baby and he to the study in the basement. We cooled off for a while then I went upstairs to put the baby to bed and ended up rocking him to sleep in the rocking chair. I drifted off to sleep myself once I got him settled, and when I woke up there was a wonderful aroma drifting up from the kitchen. I came downstairs and peeped around the corner to see H standing next to the oven with a bowl of cookie dough and a sheepish look on his face (matching the one on mine, I suspect). We both apologized and then laughed and gave each other a big hug. Then we both had cookies and milk and felt much better.

We could have held a grudge, we could have each stood our ground waiting for the other to apologize first, we could have taken sharp words said in the heat of the moment to heart. But our love for each other, like a fresh white blanket of snow, washed away those imperfections and let us see each other through the eyes of love instead of seeing each other's warts and shortcomings.

So if you and your sweetie hit a rough patch (and you will), consider this advice: Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow!!

Reynolds-Houston Wedding from Amy (Allender) Smith on Vimeo.

The 3rd Anniversary is here and I cannot believe it has been 3 years already. I guess it is true what they say… time flies when your having fun!

To keep the love and laughter a high priority, my husband and I have come up with our very own anniversary traditions. One of which included each of us donning our wedding day attire. Him in his suit – and “Oh, does he look good!” and me in my wedding dress… yes it still fits. Then we hit the town! Yes, we may get a few stares or whispers, but most people tend to recognize the same enjoyment and humor that we do. This year, we even had another couple secretly pay for our bottle of wine before we paid our server. They weren't looking for a “Thank You” or a pat on the back because they left before we had the chance to do so. They just did it to be thoughtful and kind. Don't you wish more people were like this? My husband and I were really touched and can’t wait for the opportunity to return the favor to someone else one day.

So, that’s a little snapshot into my anniversary traditions. Be sure to make your own and send us some stories.

The first thing I see when I logged in to Facebook is a status update from Sarah (my best friend who has been sick). Then I got an IM from her. I think I was so overjoyed that I started to cry. I have missed her so much and just getting to talk to her for even a little while was the best ending to a stressful week.Who would have ever guessed that I would miss talking to her as much as i have in the last 6 weeks.

This was definitely an unexpected joy in life.

When I was a newlywed I was full of ideas of what to give my husband for special occasions - or just random days. He'd even so much as whisper something he liked and VOILA - it would show up in a wrapped box. Or in his closet.....or in the yard (when I surpirsed him with a new shiny basketball goal).

But once I had completed his wardrobe makeover (which was more for ME and my reputation - ha) and stocked the workout room with every type of exercise equipment known to mankind....I was out of ideas.

Men are hard to shop for....has anyone else noticed that or is it just me? :-)

It didn't take us long to figure out that "stuff" was, well...just stuff and really - does he need a super-charged car vacuum or bendable flashlight? What we both love is just hanging out in fun places. Ok...some of our fun places may also include a tropical beach but we also love music and concerts.

We love old rock 'n roll. We love classical music. We love country (**correction**...I love country...he endured a Garth Brooks concert). So last night when we were watching an old concert on TV by a group we both loved he said "if they ever come to town, we'll go". Two minutes later, the Public Television lady comes on and announces as part of the television station fundraiser they were selling primo seats to their concert (before the tickets go on sale to the public) which will be coming to our city in the spring!! We looked at each other in total shock, picked up and phone and got two AWESOME seats to see one of our favorite bands.

Then I said "Christmas gift...DONE". And each of us could not be happier. Maybe he a little more than me because this means he won't have to go near a mall. :-)

She is progressing steadily one day at a time. Thank you all for sending your prayers and good thoughts her way. She IS getting better. We appreciate all of your prayers. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

We tried to include the best of each family, as well as our own individual traditions, plus a few we created ourselves. For example, going to church with H's family on Christmas Eve and spending Christmas afternoon with mine honored both families' "gathering" traditions. Putting the lamb in the loft of the manger scene honored H's (and his daughter's!) personal tradition, and elaborate stocking stuffing honored mine. And our beautiful bird- and icicle-themed tree is our own unique contribution to the season, as is our performing together in the local Christmas Spectacular.

As our family grows with Ryan's birth, no doubt we'll be adding new traditions through the years. Perhaps a special ornament that he'll put on the tree, perhaps a favorite Christmas album of his that we'll play while we decorate, perhaps a drive around town to check out the Christmas lights, perhaps a silly family Christmas photo. Who knows what we'll come up with? But whatever it is, whether we borrow it from our childhoods or come up with it entirely on our own, it will become our special family tradition.

Meet the owners of Sashay Creative Events, Alyssa Olson and Katy Cobb. Artful design. Flawless planning. Spicy style. Sashay Creative Events is event planning with an edge.

These girls rock. No, really. I know this because they met at a rock show. But that's just half the story. The band? Well now those rockin' band boys are their husbands and are still lighting up the stage today!

Themes such as "Modern Twist of Lime" celebrate the chic bride who prefers simple elegance with a splash of modern design.

Photo by Parker Portraits

Low Country Rock & Roll Wedding

A bride who loves the smell of the low-tide marsh and a groom who beats the drums in a rock band inspired this urban rock meets rural chic wedding. Low Country Gospel music filled the air while Miami Vice Mojitos quenched the thirst of the hot humid southern night.

Photos by Marni Rothschild Pictures

Under the Tuscan Sun Wedding

Halloween Hoopla Wedding

You'll just have to see the rest of the pictures for yourself but when the bride and groom are known for their annual Halloween party, it was only fitting that this wedding be just as kooky.

Even the Sashay Girls themselves joined in the fun!

Photos by Our Labor of Love

Birthdays, Graduations, Showers, Themed parties...you name it - they can create it!

  Give them a call or drop them a lline    and let the ladies from Sashay events bring your event to life.

404.254.1624  info@sashayevents.com

Well, did ya do it? Were you one of the brave (?) ones who drove off in the dark and lined up with the rabid crowds in front of any one of a plethera (don’t ya just love that word?) of retail businesses, for the Door- buster deals on Black Friday? If so, you’re a better man than I, Gunga Din (the fact that I know you’re not Gunga Din and you know I’m not a man will be our little secret).

Oh sure, in keeping with our family tradition, of course I lit out for the malls on the Friday after Thanksgiving. I’ve done it for years (I think it's in my DNA), so my experience has taught me how to dress for the hunt:

1. lightweight clothing (plenty of body heat provided by the crowds pressing on every side)

2. my favorite broken-in sneakers (my sympathies for the novice shoppers who wore their “killer” heels)

3. and no earrings (to be yanked out by someone making a lunge for the last Dancing Elmo).

 Actually, I had a really great time! It put me in the right spirit seeing so many people looking for just the right gift for family and friends, knowing we are all blessed to be able to share with others. A leisurely late lunch with my daughter capped off my perfect shopping day. Who knows, next year I may not go out until 11:00 a.m.!

Absolutely inspirational....

We are blessed beyond our knowing or imagination.

Happy Thanksgiving Day....and Every Day!

My reason for thanking these strangers you may ask? Long story short is this: my best friend/"sister" of almost 21 years (the girl in the orange/salmon colored dress in my profile pic) got sick with a very severe case of the h1n1 virus and has been in ICU for 1 month tomorrow. In the time she has been in there she has needed a lot of special care and the nurses, doctors, respiratory therapists, specialists (and anyone else I may have missed) have taken the best care of her. She needed a lot of special care and was even in a special bed (called the Rotoprone) that probably saved her life. Everyone in the ICU has taken such great care of her and this year I am thankful for all of the people who have had a hand in helping her get better. She has come a long way and still has a long way to go but she is doing better than any of us expected her to do. If not for the hard work that all of these people have put in to help her get better I fear that she would not have gotten better.

So this year I am thankful for all of the people who have had a hand in helping my "sister" get better and exhausting every effort and not giving up thing that for one moment that she would pull through this. You are my unsung heroes.

For all of the nurses, doctors, respiratory therapists, specialists, and anyone else who has a hand in saving someone's life, this Thanksgiving I am thankful for all of you. You all touch families in some of the most difficult days in their lives. You all deserve a pat on the back (and more) for all of the hard work you do.

THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU!!!!!

Have a wonderful Thanksgiving everyone!!

I think that expectations are also one of the reasons my first year of marriage went so smoothly. I came to this marriage with the understanding that there would be some transition, some working things out, some compromising as H and I found our groove. I expected to struggle now and then, and to lose that "newlywed bliss" every once in a while. But because I expected some problems, the tiny ones we had to work through were hardly noticeable. Had I been expecting a year of perfection and living in that happy newlywed cloud, I would have been devastated by some of those early struggles.

Even looking back at my wedding day, my expectations colored how well the day went. I had reconciled myself to the fact that something would probably go wrong - or at least, differently than I'd planned. And yeah, when the limo broke down on the way to pick up H and his best man, that could have been a disaster. But they got there on time - and my nieces got to experience their first limo ride. And when the music for our first dance got started early so we had to run to the floor and jump into the first step rather than making our planned elegant and graceful glide into each other's arms, it didn't feel like a big deal. In fact, our photos show us both laughing - and I forgot to be nervous about forgetting a step or getting tangled in my dress and just enjoyed the whole dance. Because I expected a few wrinkles, I wasn't thrown or upset when they happened; I was ready for them.

So I guess the bottom line is that sometimes, expecting less than perfection can minimize the inevitable imperfections that life throws at you. So to all you brides-to-be and newlywed wives out there, consider your expectations and don't put too much pressure on yourself for everything to be perfect. Sometimes the imperfections in life turn out to be the most perfect moments of all!

Which of these honeymoon photos do you think we look at more?? Here's a hint: It isn't the one that came out according to expectations!!

Sometimes I only get up to pee and when I come back, I have no place to sleep. I have to nudge myself into his body and push him over, which results in him grunting at me.

So, now if I know I am going to come back to the bed, I literally RUN (usually to pee) so I can be done faster and hope that by the time I get back to the bed, my husbands unconscious mind hasn't taken over the whole bed.

With the running, I'm still late!

Does this happen to any of you????

This is it! Thanksgiving week! A special time of gratitude! At least, that’s what it’s supposed to be. For many newlyweds, this may be the first time you’ll be attending (or even hosting) a holiday gathering with your in-laws. Your expectations can determine how enjoyable the day will be for you (both).

Do NOT conjure up any mind-pictures of how scary this new family seems to you, like...

1. His Uncle Harry grosses the kids out with his old “pull my finger” joke (your Cousin Melvin can burp the whole alphabet).

2. His Aunt Grace has noticeably blue hair (your Aunt Dora's wig slides down over her forehead).

3. His Cousin Mike wears camouflage gear (your sister’s “goth” look is still grating on your parent’s nerves)

4. His mom asks in front of everyone, "When are you going to make me a grandmother?” (your own mother showed you the “Baby’s First Christmas” tree ornament she’s already bought, because HER clock is ticking).

Just remember, a “relationship” means you “relate” to one another. That’s hard to do if you know nothing about that person. Plan ahead how you will try to learn more about your spouse’s family:

1. Ask for his mom for her apple cake recipe (even if it’s so bland you know you’ll never make it).

2. Encourage his father to tell how they celebrated Thanksgiving when he was a child.

3. Compliment his grandma for how beautiful her table looks (no matter if it’s set with fine china or pumpkin-colored Chinet); give her kudos for preparing for the crowd.

Give thanks for family (yours/mine...now ours), and use the gathering as a time to get to know each other better,  Learning about your spouse's family will give you great insight into why and how he became the wonderful person you married.

I am interested in seeing what you wonderful ladies think?

Do you even go in the bathroom when your hubby is in there?

Do you let your hubby go in the bathroom while you are using it?

I used to have a shoe box full of old notes. Most of them were from my girlfriends...the ones that I shared all my deepest secrets with.  It cracks me up to read that stuff now. As I read through them I realized these were basically a diary of my junior high and high school years.

But some of those notes were old "love letters" written by past boyfriends. It's funny how many details that seems so important at the time had pretty much been forgotten....until I read those notes again. Suddenly those old memories were clear as a bell. I laughed at myself at how emotional and hormonal I was.....and silly and 'love sick'.  But that's what being a teenage girl is all about - discovering who we are, what we want and what we're supposed to do with all those emotions.

But I'm a married woman now and so very much in love with this man to whom I said "I do". Does he know about my past boyfriends? Of course he does. Do I know about his old girlfriends? Oh yes I do! Would I want to read his old love letters? Maybe (come on...you know we're just curious by nature). But do I want him to keep them as cherished memories in a box under our bed??? I don't think so!!

I'm not saying it's right or wrong to keep things like old love letters. But for me, I decided to say good bye to the past and create a new book of memories with my husband.

Did you keep yours? Just curious!

Source - Google Images

I definitely lean more towards the traditional role of a wife in marriage, which isn't to say that I have anything against those who choose differently than me. I truly enjoy loving on my husband and taking care of him. I enjoy having a nice dinner cooked for him, or getting the house cleaned while he is out. I fully intend to stay at home with our kids as much as I can. I enjoy making our home a welcoming environment and I love baking delicious treats and entertaining. And yet, if I choose these things over throwing on a suit and working 10 hour days and busting my butt as I make my way up the corporate ladder, I am somehow demeaning woman and destroying everything that feminists worked so far to obtain.

Source - Google images

Why? In my opinion, the feminist movement was all about opportunities. Opening up channels that were never open to woman before. Now, it just seems like we're going to the other extreme and stuffing women right back in that box. How is it that we could come so far but yet we still insist on destroying each other's decisions? I know that women in general tend to be more judgemental and critical than men (in general, not across the board), but why is it that some people feel judged when you make a different decision than one they have made? Why do we feel so free to judge and criticize other people's lives and choices?

Lately I've noticed that a lot of women who I interact with have their self-esteem and self-worth all wrapped up in their lives and decisions/choices. Which means, while I am delighted to fulfil a more traditional role in my marriage, other women view it as a personal insult and an attack on their lifestyle! Why are woman so touchy? I don't want to hurt other woman or make them feel less fulfilled. I have no desire to cause anyone to feel as if they are doing everything wrong unless they choose to live their life like my own. It takes all kinds of people to make up the world! Yes, I could sit here and spout off statistics that support my views or the other parties views, but they're just blanket statistics, they don't address everyone's individual situation, and who am I to judge what is right and what is wrong? I understand that not everyone likes to cook or clean, I understand that not every woman has the maternal drive to stay at home with her kids or maybe it's the financial capability. But why can't it be ok for me, if that is my choice, if I do like those things and that is where my passion lies?

I specifically choose a career path that went beyond something that  came naturally to me, something that I could support my family in, if need be, but could support them from home. There very well may come a day when I let my work know, I won't be returning, Do I know when that will be? No, but I know that I'll feel it in my heart when it's time. My heart is in my home, in taking care of those that God had given me to take care of. My desire is to love and honor God in my marriage and it's something that I will spend the rest of my life learning how to do. I guess my question to you guys this week is why? Why do we, as women, so often feel the need to tear other women down, in order to feel good about the decisions we have made? I'm very interested to hear what you all have to say!

Ok...this is one of the coolest things I've seen in a while. Robbins Brothers' recently launched a new virtual love note widget, allowing anyone to create a special little video for someone you love (as in...your husband or fiancé).

You can also use it to announce your engagement by customizing the content at the end. You can email a list of people or even copy the code and embed the video on your own blog! How cool is that?~

I just tried it and it was really fun, fast and easy to do. Go ahead, try it. Tell me what you think.

The nice thing about the division of labor in a marriage is that the two of you aren't identical twins, so there will always be some things that one of you is better at than the other. There will always be some things that one of you HATES to do but the other doesn't mind. There are always some decisions that are crucial to one of you but not the other. So some choices and some chores fall very naturally to one partner or the other. H generally chooses the restaurant when we go out; I'm usually in control of the TV remote (I know! But it's true!). H makes vacation plans; I make the call on what theater performances we see. He plans the menu for big parties; I plan for small family get-togethers.

And then there are things that just change week by week, for whatever reason. Some weeks I'll run and unload the dishwasher every time it's full and some weeks H will do 5 loads of laundry that I never touch. Some weeks I'll cook 4 or 5 nights and some weeks H will do the same. Obviously, over the past few weeks H has been doing pretty much everything around the house, from grocery shopping to cooking to laundry to taking out the trash to everything else you could think of. And as I get back on my feet and fall into a routine, I'll take over most of those chores and give him a break.

It's a great relief to know that H doesn't resent doing most of the work right now, because he knows that the 100-0 ratio will eventually swing back the other way. As long as we're both dedicated to doing as much as we can and shouldering our share of the work, in the end it will always come down to being 50-50. And as long as we think of ourselves as a team, it doesn't matter what the current ratio is, it only matters that we're working together.

Yeay baby!! The girls from ChicBuds...the creators of the sassy Swarovski adorned 'ear candy' retractable earphones....have generously offered to give one lucky girl her very own from the new designer series.

You know the rules! Leave a comment to be entered to win this Blue-Raspberry Swirl ChicBud!

**Winner's name will be drawn Wednesday, Nov. 25th**

So, you may be saying T.M.I. and what does Oprah have to do with this class? I am an avid Oprah watcher. I DVR Oprah every day and tonight when I got home from school I went to my DVR to see if Oprah was going to be interesting and something I wanted to watch today. To my astonishment Oprah's show today was about the pornography industry and erotica and the main guest on today's show was Jenna Jameson. In case any of you don't know who she is, she is one of the most, if not THE most, famous woman porn star in the world. Didn't think that I would see an Oprah show about pornography.

Not necessarily an unexpected joy in life but definitely an unexpected show today. It was actually pretty interesting. If you weren't able to catch it, it is pretty interesting you might be able to catch it showing again on the Internet somewhere (www.oprah.com has some additional footage from the show).

Normally I watch Oprah and it really doesn't relate to any part of my life so an unexpected surprise in my day. Just wanted to share something interesting in my day today.

Hopefully I didn't spell anything wrong I can't remember how to spell check my posts.

Last night I climbed wearily into bed after feeding our son, and H reached over and rubbed my back for a few minutes. Even without words, I could feel the love he was feeling for our son and for me. That simple touch told me he was as overwhelmed with love and gratitude for our little family as I am. It told me how proud he is of me for trying so hard to be a good mom and a good wife. It told me that he loves to see me with our son just as much as I love to see him with our son.

That simple touch tells me without words that we done good with this one. Yup, we done good indeed. And we both know it, even without words.

• walking down the aisle with my dad
• my sister, aka Maid of Honor, taking out the rings from between her boobs
• the best man eyeing me down from behind Mr. Newlywed Giggles shoulder while saying our vows
• the best man handing over his flask to our friend in the pew as he walked down the aisle
• our first kiss as husband and wife
• the cheesiest smile on my face walking down the aisle
• our bridal party having the time of their life
• our wedding cake.. yummo!
• taking awesome pictures with a great photographer
• being cold while taking pictures outside in 40 degree weather, but loving it at the same time
• seeing family and friends having fun
• dancing
• eating... food was sooo good!
• The best memory of all: Looking at my husband while saying our vows and having the feeling of happiness and love rush through my body

Happy one year wedding anniversary to us, Mr. and Mrs. Newlywed Giggles <3

I was never a fan of video games and my sentiment hasn't really changed. Video games this week have been my unexpected joy in life.

What are some of your unexpected joys in life?

My mom has been staying with us for the past week, just to help ease me into having H back at work. We spent lots of time watching the baby sleep, or make funny faces, having Mom keep me company while I fed him, and just generally chatting about motherhood, marriage, and life in general. Mom and I have always been close, and I'm a great admirer of her advice, but this week was a good reminder of just how much common sense and wisdom she has.

The week helped me appreciate even more what a gift it is having family and friends who are willing to offer up their own experiences and wisdom, who share their successes and failures, and who give sage advice to me. In my younger days, I often pooh-poohed or at least politely ignored advice from those older and wiser than I. What did they know about MY particular situation? What made them think they knew better than I? Why should I listen to their advice, anyway? I learned soon enough that I should listen to their advice because they had more experience under their belts than I. I didn't necessarily need to accept their advice every time, but I discovered that they often had good points and giving their advice thoughtful consideration was always in my best interests.

I am also grateful that the vast majority of advice offered to me was in a true spirit of helpfulness, not a spirit of criticism. Both my own family and my in-laws are endlessly gracious and hesitant to offer unsolicited advice because they respect me and my abilities. So when they do offer a bit of wisdom, I take it gratefully, knowing that they are trying to make my life easier and not trying to tell me that I'm doing something wrong. Sadly, I know this is not the case with many families. But if yours is like mine, listen to the voices of experience that are offered.

And someday, when you have a little more experience and wisdom under your own belt, be sure to graciously offer advice to others. I know I will, and I will be proud and humbled to be a link in that chain.

So, Ashley W., one of my newlywed girlfriends, asked this very interesting question which, at first, made me laugh. Then it made me go...."HEY...she's got a great point!"

Question: Why do women's magazines always have articles about how we can improve everything we do? "6 sexier bedroom moves" "Set the perfect place setting" "8 days to a more beautiful you". Do you ever see titles like that on a Men's magazine? "6 ways to be more romantic" "The art of taking out the garbage on time" "8... steps to grooming yourself without leaving behind a trail of razor debris"...thought provoking.

Typical Women's Magazines:

source

(This one above is my favorite!)

(Dont' get me wrong....I love Martha Stewart's fabulous recipes!)

Vs.Popular Men's Magazines:

source

source

(And this is the cover of Men's Health Magazine!)

I'm just sayin........

Not all wedding planners are created equally but Lara Molettiere of Lara Molettiere Events gets right to the heart of the matter when she talks to the bride and groom to be. 

She asks:

"How do you want your MARRIAGE to start? Aside from the obvious answer, "Duh, with a wedding" what could I possibly mean?

Most bridal consultations include the usual questions: What are your colors? How many guests? Do you have a theme? etc. I believe that the celebration of the marriage is the most important part of every wedding. So I ask "How do you want your marriage to start?"

Aside from the funny look I usually get, after a few more questions, i.e. Do you want it to be a big party at the beginning full of surprises, dancing, late night fun, after parties galore or do you want it to be a day filled with symbols of your romance, how God has blessed your union, and a celebration centered around your spirituality and your family?

After a few such questions, clients run with it. By asking this one simple question I have allowed my clients to probe a little deeper and it almost always ends up with us adding a few extra details that make the wedding infinitely more special to the bride and groom and their families. Adding your great-grandmothers broach to your bouquet, having family pictures on display, using the same prayer book that was used at your parents wedding, serving the same wine you had on your first date, or even hiring the DJ from the first club you went to together can all add unexpected touches of personality to your wedding, the start of your married life together.

Then we focus on the fabulous party portion.

So while you begin planning your special day, your once in a lifetime event, the wedding of your dreams, take a moment and think about the marriage that is to follow."

If everything in life stayed the same, even the parts of it that seem wonderful, it would get boring. The excitement of being married lies in the constant changes that come along: learning to live together, settling into a home together, dealing with illness or losing a job or a parent, and yes, having children. Having to work through life's joys and sorrows brings you closer together as husband and wife.

When I look over the past few years since H came into my life, I am amazed at the journey we have taken together. From meeting a stranger for the first time, to falling in love, getting married, establishing our home, and now becoming parents, life has been a dizzying whirlwind. But I wouldn't have it any other way. I feel like I am constantly learning more about H by seeing him in so many different situations. And he is learning more every day about what makes me tick. And we're both learning to love each other under all different circumstances. I've seen him getting frustrated with his teenage daughter; he's seen me getting frustrated with nursing our son. I've seen him cheerfully greeting old college buddies; he's seen me giggling like a schoolgirl with mine. I've seen him concerned over issues at work; he's seen me deal with being laid off. We've seen each other deathly sick and in the finest of health. We've fretted over money and time and what to make for dinner. We've cheered over family accomplishments and friends' weddings. We've sought each other out for comfort and commisseration, and to share in celebration and rejoicing.

The day he asked me to marry him, I thought there was no way I could ever love him more. But the more I see of him, the more I get to know him, the more I am able to love him. And as we add one more name to our family tree, my love for him grows even as my love for our son grows. Love among three instead of two is multiplied, not divided.

                                                    April 12, 2008                                     November 2, 2009

I was actually very sick on my wedding day... we got married on Saturday and the Wednesday before I caught the flu from someone... and it didn't go until the Friday after our wedding! Here you can see my nose is a little pink from being sick... and I like that they didn't airbrush that our of the photo, for it shows ME oh so na-tur-al.

Handome husband and some of his groomsmen...

Peeking at my soon-to-be husband...

Some of our wedding party (we had 18!) chasing my husband who was stealing me away from them!

The most emotional father-daughter dance our photographers have seen... they told me so! My daddy and I could not keep it together - I love him so much!
The newlyweds...
Beautiful sky... beautiful sand... amazing photo
My husband the joker faked out all of the guys when we went to throw the garther. Notice it is still in his right hand and all the guys are reaching for his empty left!
We did a day-after shoot and it was one of the best ideas our photographers had. They captured us on our first day as a married couple. I think you can really see the love between us in this photo.
The Inn we stayed at on our wedding night was amazing - Henderson Inn in Destin - it is a bed and breakfast on the beach and I highly recommend you escape with your loved one there someday! 

Hope you enjoyed my photos! There are more on their blog and website - and MANY more to come in the next few weeks.

“You're amazing; you always remember to get the oil changed on the car.”

“Thanks for being so gracious to my Uncle Charlie; I know he can be a braggert.”

“Do you know how much I love it when you just kiss my eyes?”

“You’re so sweet to have the coffee ready when I get downstairs.”

It’s not manipulation...it’s reinforcement! It’s great to think it; but it changes a person when it’s actually spoken. It’s loving out loud!

I love the guys over at The Man Registry. In addition to providing an awesome service for the groom that features a specialized wedding gift registry, wedding gifts tailored toward grooms, including electronics, barbecue grills and accessories, bar supplies, tools and outdoors gear and items from favorite sports teams....they also offer some timeless advice. Yeah...you should share this with your guy friends!

Simon Daykin shares his wedding day photo advice:

"We all have our love for facial hair and sideburns.  I myself used to sport a long ass goatee that I had dyed bright red.  Yup, seemed like a good idea at the time.  We’ve all seen the photos of Dad’s wedding, groomsmen with huge mustaches, mutton chop sideburns and oh dear Lord, The Mullet!  My Dad gave me some advice on my wedding day, he said “Son, shave that crap off your face, don’t date your photos.”  Having thought about this I think that was some of the best advice I could have received.  You want your wedding photos to be timeless."

Read the rest of the article here (funny stuff!)

With the whirlwind of planning a wedding and walking down the aisle, many brides don't have time to research what's involved with changing their name until after the big day. The namechange process can be complicated and time consuming. Name Change Express provides a simple and customized experience. In three simple steps brides can change their name. The Name Change Express system is backed by solid research and works to ensure a stress free experience for the bride.

Just leave a comment to be entered to win. Drawing will be on Monday, November 16th.

The point is... who doesn't love being complimented or bragged on? It's an instant self-esteem boost. But when you brag on your guy it pays you in ways you can't imagine. That circle of love thing is awesome!

1. He is the world's most handsome hunk!
2. He takes providing for his family seriously...and does it well.
3. He is a spiritual leader that helps keep me on track.
4. He loves me just the way I am...and always has.
5. He is a terrific father.
6. He has awesome good looks! (Oh, did I already say that?)
7. He is a real man of which I can be proud.
8. He treats me like his queen and appreciates what I do for him.
9. He never tells me to stop talking! (Yes, he is close to sainthood, as a matter of fact!)
10. He never forgets a special occasion and always treats them with importance.
11. He is simply gorgeous! (Oops...there it is again...can't help myself!)
12. He can cook. (Although I try not to take advantage of it, there is definitely a relief in knowing my children are getting more than Doritos and candy bars when I am in the hospital or otherwise incapacitated.)
13. I fall deeper in love with him every day!

Apparently becoming a newlywed makes you a different person. You stay up late, drink a glass of wine when you get home from work, forget to go to the gym, and don't care that your apartment looks like a truck hit it.

On the ride home from Florida, Mr. H and I had a good 5 hours to discuss everything that had happened since we said goodnight after the rehearsal dinner. We were excited and happy and relieved that we were finally alone in that car and able to talk to one another after being surrounded by all of our family and friends for four days straight. We talked about the moments we would never forget of our wedding weekend: the wedding party outing that included a dueling piano bar with no a/c, 20 kids taking over a nightclub and starting a dance train, and our friend joining the band on stage to play the bongo drums. We wouldn't forget the times when we laughed so hard we started to cry - how I was so sick at our rehearsal that I couldn't repeat after the minister and we had to hope I wouldn't mess up my lines on the big day. The feeling would never go away of how it felt when we looked down and saw the goosebumps forming on our arms before we saw one another at the alter. I could go on and on but most of those memories are ones that only "we'd get" haha.

The best conversation we had was when we both decided that married life was going to be different than "dating" or "engaged" life. We were now a team - a duo - a pair - united in holy matrimony - marked by our last name and the rings we wear on our left fingers. Suddenly being married caused us to discuss topics we had never touched upon - We talked about our future together and what we hoped to accomplish. We talked about family and religion and children and life. I will never forget the beautiful words he spoke about his desire to be 'the best husband in the whole wide world.' 

As for my own personal transformation, it didn't begin because I forced new thoughts or a new lifestyle upon myself. It just happened. I am more relaxed than I have been since August 16, 2008 when Mr. H popped the question. I can't remember the last time I didn't have a panic attack if I wasn't in bed by 10pm, and now I find myself sitting up late with my husband so we can spend time together.

So far being married has been amazing...and its only been 19 days! I can't wait to see what the future holds for us.

I've just discovered the most incredible bonding experience you can have with your spouse: having a baby together. Not just conceiving, preparing for, or parenting, but actually going through the birth process together.

I had no idea quite how physically and emotionally draining childbirth is until this Monday when my son Ryan was born. Think about what you go through to deliver a child: after spending 9 months as a captive to your own body, you begin the (aptly-named) labor and delivery process by essentially wetting your pants copiously in public (or in your own bed), enduring agonizing pain for hours, losing control of various bodily functions (believe me, there are a LOT of very humbling things no one ever tells you about labor and delivery!), developing major swelling in body parts you had no idea could swell that much and still maintain their intended physiological functions, having random strangers (medical professsionals, but still strangers) manhandling your boobs none-too-gently at all hours, and then still being expected to coo and fawn over this tiny being that suddenly appeared and is dependent on you for its every need. Actually, that last part really IS easy. But I digress.

Who do you want by your side through an experience like that? Someone who'll keep telling you you're doing a great job, someone who'll help out with the most basic tasks and the most complicated ones, someone who'll cheer you on and tell you you're beautiful when you look (and smell) less than your best, someone who's in this crazy job with you for the long haul.

And there's nothing more amazing than gazing on this beautiful, sweet-smelling, tranquil new little life with the one you love, knowing that the two of you created it together and will spend the next several decades trying to make it into a human being who will make the world a better place.

Sign Up for the Seduction Meals Newsletter for more tips on recipes, drinks, hot music, and everything you need for creating romantic meals for two. Follow Seduction Meals on Facebook and Twitter.

Seduction Meals is pleased to present the sixth and final post of the six-part series: Vietnamese Splendor by Tastemaker and Trendsetter, Moshe Aeylon. Thank you Moshe for sharing your very special recipes; and what better way to end the series than with dessert. Talk about sweet temptation.

"I am getting old and lactose intolerant. So my choice of drug is GELATO, and in this case Sorbetto. And nobody comes as close to a street vendor in Italy like Ciao Bella. This dessert, using their UBER sensual new flavor Cabernet Blackberry, with fresh figs and almond slivers is very easy to describe. All you need is one word. ORGASMIC!"

Check out SeductionMeals.com for all six stories!

No tricks here, all you need is the sorbet, figs, and almond slivers. Just scoop some sorbet in a bowl, add quartered figs and slivered almonds and wait for the sounds of pleasure to emerge.

So, my question to you is:: When does the title of "newlyweds" not apply anymore? I think I will still consider myself a newlywed after this one year anniversary arrives because I want to and I can. :)

So, what's your take on how long the title "newlyweds" can be used in your relationship?

Hilarious reasons as to why are VERY much welcome. Come on gals, we can sure have some fun with this question!

The joys of sharing a bed... lol

source

Think being single is the recipe for a happy sex life? Think again. As it turns out, it's not the singles who are swinging from the chandeliers (or if they are, they're not enjoying it so much). It seems that if you want to fool around, you should settle down.

A recent survey found that 97 percent of Americans are satisfied with their intimate relationship, and fully 75 percent of us prefer marriage and monogamy to being single. A big part of this is sex. Couples who have been together for a while benefit from a sense of comfort and stability. For women, especially, feeling emotionally connected to a partner is perhaps the greatest aphrodisiac there is. Then there is the big O: Women in relationships are much more likely to achieve orgasm during sex than women who are still sampling the goods.

Before you get too comfortable, though, note that the same study shows the level of that satisfaction declines over time. Couples who have been together for fewer than three years report very exciting sex lives 58 percent of the time. Couples at the decade mark do so only 29 percent of the time. It's important to find ways to keep it interesting. Maybe some time on the chandelier wouldn't hurt, after all.

Article by Dr. Laura Berman

Sure...you've heard that phrase and several variations including Miley Cyrus' song "The Climb". Good song, great lyrics and a pretty catchy tune but it's nothing new. In fact, you could say "same song, second verse." I'm not being critical of the song - I sing along every time I hear it on the radio but the point is - do I sing because it because it's a fun little jingle or because I can relate to the words? Part of the chorus says:

Ain't about how fast I get there
Ain't about what's waiting on the other side
It's the climb.

So what happens when 'life's journey' suddenly becomes an actual journey....as in leaving a familiar place and moving to a new location?

My husband and I thought we were settled into a place we'd live for a long time. And now - we are planning to move - our first major move as a married couple.  Not just to a new house or even across town but across the country. And I am suddenly aware that my emotions are all over the board. On one hand, I'm very excited about this new adventure. On the other, I'm incredibly sad about leaving a place that I'm more than just familiar with....it's been home for most of my life.

I've always been tagged as the 'adventurous' type - the one who loves a last minute get-away or trying a new restaurant instead of the old stand-by.....or parasailing upside down just because I needed to see the world from every angle, or diving off the "boy's platform" at camp just because no one was going to tell me "no girls allowed".  But I've realized that my sense of bravery and ability to take on a challenge has always been based on knowing, at the end of the day or the two week vacation, I was going 'home'.

So when my husband saw that I wasn't my typical adventurous self, it came as a real surprise. I cried...a lot. We talked...a lot. I cried some more. After a few weeks of roller coaster emotions he said "I don't know what to say any more or how to make it better". I said "I don't need you to make it better....I just need you to understand". And he did....and he does.

Together we will climb this new mountain and create a new 'home'.   And the one thing I know for sure is that no matter what mountain either of us has to climb, we climb together.

"I may not know it
But these are the moments that
I'm gonna remember most, yeah
Just gotta keep going  

Ain't about how fast I get there
Ain't about what's waiting on the other side
It's the climb."

Thanks, Miley!

Isn't it ironic how many forms of communication are available...right at our fingertips? Need to learn a new language....say it with me now....'there's an app for that'. Need to know which species of poisonous frog is indigenous to the Amazon Rain Forrest so you can know for sure that the deep friend frog legs you just ordered from the new Cajun restaurant that you found via your new phone app are indeed....safe to eat? Yes...there's an app for that.

Thank goodness it's Friday. It's date night. My hubby and I will go out to our favorite Mexican Food restaurant and enjoy sitting together, munching on chips and salsa and drinking a margarita. We won't discuss how many calories are in the "Burrito Pablonito". We will, however, talk about how great life is. And we'll be talking to each other. No cell phones allowed on date night. No text messages, no instant messages, no urgent emails that need a reply ASAP.

And when we leave the restaurant we hold hands. Really. We'll drive towards home and, most likely, stop by and pick up some Ben & Jerry's because, well....it's Friday. We'll get home, change into our comfy-cozy (stretchy) veg-out clothes, eat our ice cream and feel way too full.  We'll watch a movie and then make our way upstairs and call it a night. We'll crawl under the covers and snuggle up close. Need to remember why you married this guy in the first place? Yeah...there's an app for that. :-)

Want to know what sucks even more? I'll tell you.... the hubby is still on vacation for the rest of this week. So I have to look at him all cuddled up in bed every morning as I leave for work in the AM. :(

Are you going to costume party? If so, are you doing the 'couple themed attire'? One time my hubby and I went to a party where we were supposed to dress up like an old rock band. We went as "Bread" (a cheesy band from somewhere around 1975). The costumes were hilarious! We were loaves of bread!!

Did you know there's a Top Ten List of Best Halloween Costumes for Couples? Here's what's topping the charts this year:

#1. Vampires (SURPRISE!)

#2. Arabian Royal Couple

#3. Caveman and Cavewoman

#4. Pirate Couple

#5. The masked man and his senorita

#6. Wizard Couple (Thank you Harry Potter)

#7. Devil Duo

#8. Ghosts

#9. Caveman and Cavegirl

#10. Mr. and Mrs. Freddy Krueger

Image Source - Top Ten Service

So....what are you planning to do on Halloween? Stay home and hand out candy? If you do....try this (and trust me....if you're not going to your own party you can at least have fun doing this)....when the kids ring your doorbell and say "TRICK OR TREAT" say "OK...you can have a treat but first you have to do a trick." They'll look at you like you're crazy but then they will come up with something cute. If they just stare at you like they're confused just ask them to sing "Happy Birthday" or "We Wish You A Merry Christmas". Or just say "Pretend you're a ballerina and dance"....that's especially fun when it's a group of boys! I've done this for several years and each year kids say "I remember this house....you make us do tricks!". And the ones that do remember "this house" usually come prepared with a FUN, NEW trick of their own.

Whatever you do...have some fun! :-)

I had mine over last night for dinner and after she greeted me with, "Did you just get up from a nap"...(By the way, there was no nap.  That was code for you look bad.)  And the "how often do you dust" question.  I pondered this "clash" and thought "that's okay".  Why, you might ask?  Because of this...

She will never love you as much as she loves him.  There, I said it!  And with one quick tear of the Bandaid, the truth is revealed.  What a release to let go of those expectations.  I have my own family and friends to raise my spirits - remind yourself that she will not be the president of your fan club.

This whole mantra came to me in the form of a Newsweek article titled, "What?  You Don't Love Your Mother-in-Law?"  Helpful tips from the MIL perspective as well as the DIL perspective.  A quick read of two pages online and I feel that I have reached my MIL vs. DIL nirvana.  Do I need to be refreshed?  Abosolutely, I need a motivator to remind me of the "rules" this article points out. 

Some of my favs:
1) Don't expect equal treatment - I fall victim to this all the time!  "Don't expect your mother-in-law to care as much about your career and your potential as she does about her son's," Apter said.

2) Being thin-skinned.  So, she asked if you're tired when in fact you got 10 hours of sleep plus and are having a great hair day.  Thicken up that skin pronto.

Check out the whole article and join me in my blissful state.
http://www.newsweek.com/id/206199/page/1

Are you one of the lucky few whose mate has the same money-management style as you? You’re a rare breed! Or are you like most newlyweds and have discovered that your financial saving (or spending) style clashes with your spouse?

There are volumes written about all that and it’s easy enough to find ready-reference materials in the library or online. But, money (and what to do with it) can be one of the biggest problem-makers in a marriage. Really??? Du-uuuh!

Here are just a few common-sense ideas that will help make for smooth-sailing on the sea of matrimony-money (groan):

1. Hey, Big Spender - I have to ‘fess up! I married young and wanted to express my (the big spender) new-found independence in buying what I decided to.  Actually, I was anxious to prove I could make responsible choices.  My hubby (the frugal one) in my “undeveloped” estimation, was a tight-wad!  I had to learn that what he really wanted was to make sure our family had security.  It’s important for each mate to understand how emotionally-tied the other one’s actions are. And most importantly, discuss those financial differences at non-crisis moments.

2. In Sync - Get in sync about long-term goals (we want to save for a down-payment for a house; send kids to college; start a business). After you’ve discussed and even listed some basic goals (give it up...you’ll never agree on everything but learn the importance of making a few priorities together), try never to say, “You cannot actually be thinking of buying that stupid Wii right now!” You might phrase it more like this: “Okay, but do you really want to postpone our trip to the Australian outback?”

3. Informed if not involved - I once worked for an attorney who handled a lot of probate cases. It always amazed me at how many widows (and an occasional widower) had no idea how to begin to handle the family finances (even writing a check) because the other one “just took care of all that.” In fact, I have a personal friend whose spouse died after a long illness and after his funeral, she didn’t even have the password to his computer files for bill-paying. Ouch! It shouldn’t take a funeral to make us aware of our financial situation.

These are just some “heads-up” ideas that I learned through experience. If they’re helpful, yea! If not, let’s hear yours...please share.  I’m open to whatever helps. You know the old saying about “an ounce of prevention...”

In August of 2008 they moved into their new home but not before discovering the fun of remodeling. Oh....and all while Maren was expecting their first child.

Leaks, holes in the walls, rotted wood, termites...I thought the house would be too much work - Jeremy just said "Do you love it? Then I can do it." :)

And he did!! :)  They closed July 2 and moved in August 1!!!

Den - Before

Den - After

Dining Room - Before

Dining Room - After

Kitchen - Before

Kitchen - After

Bath - Before

Bath - After

Caution - Men at Work!

Thank goodness for girlfriends!

Maren - Before

Family - After

Congratulations on a beautiful home makeover!

We had a blast and as some of you might remember, two days before vacation i moved into my new apartment.  So when we came back from vacation on Saturday night, we dropped our bags and went to sleep.  Then the next morning we got up and finished uinpacking the rest of the apartment.  Our apartment is now completely unpacked so sometime this week I'll take some pics to show you all the apartment.  But I just wanted to say hi to everyone and tell you how much i missed you all!

I promise to write fun stories about my trip this week!

This past weekend was H's college Homecoming weekend, as well as the centennial celebration for his fraternity. H and I both had a hand in planning the festivities and although I had never met most of the fraternity brothers who would be attending, I was familiar with plenty of names and faces from reviewing the registrations and checking out all the old photos that were shooting back in forth in cyberspace prior to the event. I was definitely looking forward to meeting some of the people that I'd heard so many stories about, people who had been (and still were) so important in H's life.

Once we were on campus, we ran into plenty of H's fraternity brothers and other classmates who were delighted to say hello and catch up. And H couldn't have been prouder to introduce me to all of them. I really did feel like a trophy wife, in the nicest possible sense of the word. H was proud to have me on his arm, proud to have me participating and helping out with the events he was working on, proud that I was "being such a trooper" (in his words) to be willing to travel and be part of this special weekend so late in my pregnancy. He made me feel so special and so beautiful at a time when I'm not exactly feeling like I'm in my physical prime (!).

I truly felt like a trophy, not in the sense of having worth only because of my looks, but in the sense of being something of innate worth that had to be earned, something that represents character and worthiness in the one who earned it. And I am just as proud to have been earned by my sweet H as he is to have earned me.

I have a soft spot in my heart for women entrepreneurs. So today's Vendor Spotlight is a story that I felt needed to be shared for any woman with a passion and a idea. Oh...and if you're really lucky, you'll have a mom, like Miss Icing & Aprons, who loves you enough to give you that extra bit of firm honesty that sets your ideas in motion.

From the Icing & Aprons blog:

"I know for me, I had to look back at my childhood...and find what things in life I naturally gravitated toward. It was art; making things, crafts, baking & sweets, and writing. God prepared my path to get me to this point. Everything he put in front of me, I am using today. Even this job...let me tell you how I got it...A blessing handed to me on a Silver Cake Platter!" Read on......

Just the beginning......

Sites like Style Me Pretty give you the ability to create your own inspiration board as you plan your wedding. Did you take advantage of the amazing technology we have at our fingertips to do this? If you did, we'd love to see yours too!

When I have a breakout it can be easily covered with foundation or distracted with funky eye make-up, etc.  Guys lack those options so I felt bad when my hubby had a breakout and was feeling self conscious.  I offered a quick fix and he willingly allowed a small amount of concelor on his face.

It got me thinking about man-scaping, women have lots of skin products out there.  Do any of your husbands have some man-scaping tips you can share?

Do you and your husband ever have this argument? Really - we have debated who is funnier than whom (who? whom? or WHO CARES?). So what if he's actually performed at a comedy club? I don't care - I'm still funnier!

We kind of figured out that arguments are such a waste of time and not nearly as much fun as laughing, talking, scheming and plotting different ways we plan to take over the world....you know, life's simple pleasures.

So next time you find yourself headed toward an argument - just stop, put your hands on your hips and with your best 'serious face' look right at your opponent and say...."OH YEA?? WELL....I'm FUNNIER THAN YOU!" Then smile and walk away.

Being 'right' is so overrated - and laughter really is the best medicine!

Put a little vintage in your day

Think outside the boxed invitations and let your whimsical imagination run wild. Then let the good folks at Miss Pickles Press help you bring that idea to life.

source - Miss Pickles Press

Sip and repeat cocktail stirers

"Goodness Gracious" notecards

Miss Pickles says...."If you have custom paper needs, let Miss Pickles Press design fantastic birth announcements, party invitations with pop, personal correspondence as stylish as you are, complete wedding suites, business cards - wherever your creativity leads you. Give us a holler (that's Southern for get in touch) and let's get started."

So just bop on over and give 'em a 'look-see' - that's southern for check 'em out, y'all!

Married in the Midwest said:

I wish I would have stuck with my usual make-up regime. I had a pro put on my eye make-up because I wanted to look nice in the photos. I was convinced to try liquid eyeliner which I have always been the traditional pencil kind of lady. I sprung for the liquid hoping for a throw-back Grace Kelly look. When finished, it looked very dramatic and too harsh for the 'soft' look I was going for. I had the make-up artist take it down a couple notches and then I looked less Dracula eyes. Stick with what you know! And yes, its always better to have the groom see you the same even on your wedding day!

Elisse Goldstein-Clark, Owner Elkhorn Inn

I wish... we'd had more money for the favors and gifts I'd wanted... had a professional photographer instead of just family and friends shooting pix... and had my gown alterations done in NYC instead of by the local dimwit suggested to me by David's Bridal (?!) who marked my gown's hem with a black magic marker & cut it with shears & hemmed it on her sewing machine (& no I'm not kidding- I was in tears). But it was a WONDERFUL wedding and everyone had a Blast (including us), and no one noticed my gown's hem, and I wouldn't have changed a thing for a million bucks!! (Well maybe for a million bucks...) LOL 

Sharon Naylor, Wedding book author & expert:

I wish I had kept better track of the clock while we were taking pre-wedding photos! My girls and I were having so much fun that we went a bit overtime, sending the photographer over to the wedding site to get the guys' pre-wedding pictures with just 10 minutes to spare! Ooops!

Karen Brownlee

I wish that I would have either kept my makeup artist around after the wedding and just before the reception to freshen up my makeup.  After the wedding and the post wedding pictures, as I look back at the reception pictures I felt that my makeup could have used a bit of freshening up.

Alisa Benay, Couture Wedding Gown Designer:

First of all, I wish I had had more backbone & stood up & said "um, hello? this is MY wedding, I'd kinda like to plan it myself".  But aside from that, several pairs of fresh pantyhose would have been nice at the time.  Except now I don't wear them anymore, so I don't know if that's helpful.   Also, extra shoes pan things, those little bits of arch supports, and shoe inserts, and now they make a tape to just put a little right where your shoe is rubbing you.

In Love in San Diego said:

One of the things I wish I would have done on my wedding day was take more pictures. We took a lot of pictures but after everything was said and done there were more pictures I thought about that I wish I would have taken. I also wish I had gotten more time to talk with everyone than I did. The one really cool thing though was right as I was getting ready to put my dress on I lost one of the strings to the petticoat skirt I wore under my dress. No one had safety pins but the photographer's assistant was handy with a needle and thread. I wish I would have remembered safety pins as I had to cut myself out of the skirt at the end of the night.