spud muffins

My Grandpa Jack

2011-01-10T10:10:00.000-08:00

One of the dearest men passed away last week, my precious grandfather Jack Allen Taylor. He was born on September 24th 1924 in Hollywood and grew up during the depression with the likes of the Little Rascals, getting into all sorts of mischief. He was resourceful though! Little Jack would go down to the pier and catch fish in the morning, stick them in his little red wagon and sell them in the afternoon to earn a few cents.

I remember one story he would love to tell about a time when he and his buddy "Boots" noticed that a local store had been boarded up. Curious as little boys are they decided to investigate, so they found a way in and discovered rows of slot machines (very much illegal at that time) and coins (even quarters!) scattered all over the ground! Back then a dime would buy you a pound of hamburger meat so a quarter was a big deal! So the boys filled their pockets as full as they would get, then they filled their caps, maybe they stuck a few coins in their shoes... and ran home as fast as their legs could carry them. Good, God-fearing children as they were, they were sure they would be struck dead if they were caught. This, however, did not stop them from going back to get whatever else they could! But, alas, by the time they got there the place was surrounded by police and blocked off with police tape. What an adventure!

As a teen he became quite the gymnast and used to work out and show off on Muscle Beach! Word on the street is he was quite the hunk... he could even do the iron cross!

When WWII broke out he enlisted as a conscientious objector and served as a medic. Among many major battles he was also in the Battle of the Bulge. A whiz with languages, after two weeks in France was made the lead translator for the battalion and later in Germany was placed in charge of an entire hospital because of his fluency in German!

After the war was over Grandpa settled down and married my Grandma Dorothy Elliott (whom he called Dotty). They had met at a church gathering during a game of "squeak bunny squeak"... and if I want to make Grandma blush I'll tell you about it. They were married less than six months later.

They had five children Lynne, Brian, Debra, John and Susan and if Grandpa was a rascal of a child he had nothing on his kids.

He became a dentist and soon had his own practice. His patients loved (still love) him and many of them came to his memorial last week. He was my dentist too, until he retired after his 80th birthday. He took away any fear of going to the dentist, he was warm and gentle. Always remembered everyone and asked after their families. Everyone loved him.

Jack's great love was his grandchildren. Nothing made him quite as happy as holding a new little grandbaby, admiring their tiny little hands, kissing their squishy cheeks, bouncing them on his knee, smelling that baby smell... heaven.

He was constantly quizzing us grandkids. Making sure we were getting a proper education and filling in wherever he thought we might be lacking. Any visit to Grandpa's was not complete with out a language or science lesson and of course a great story from the war or his childhood. I think I owe my own love of languages to him. He was also an amazing artist, I remember sitting with him at the kitchen table and having him show me the proper way to draw a face - "No no no, Julie, your eyes are way up by the hairline... bring them down... yes, there, right in the middle of the face, halfway up... that's right... much better..." He was never too busy to spend time with us, or with anyone. He was the best of men and he will be greatly missed.

Love you Grandpa.

Our New Roommate

2010-11-16T17:00:00.000-08:00

This is Jaden. She is my darling sister-in-law's kitty and Brad and I have offered to take care of her for just a little while...

Jaden has been here for about six weeks already and she and I have gotten to know and understand each other a bit now. She is a unique little cat. Apparently the story goes that one of Darah's coworkers was in downtown San Diego and was approached by a homeless woman with a teeny tiny kitten in her hand. This woman handed the kitten to Darah's friend and simply walked away. Back at the office, she asked if Darah would watch the kitten for awhile, since Darah had a closed office rather than a cubicle. And that is how a little tiny Jaden wound up asleep on Darah's lap for the rest of the day... and stayed with her for the next three years.

Let me take a moment to describe this cat. First, she has a pretty serious underbite so her lower jaw kind of juts out giving her a funny little grimace. Second, her tail is broken, this causes all kinds of fun! It just hangs behind her, offering none of the benefits cat's tails are famous for. She lacks all balance and grace, poor thing. Third, she is a little bit dog-like in her attachment to her humans. She will happily follow me around the house and curl up with me for a nap... when I wake up and stretch she stretches too. :)

She has decided that water bowls are completely passe´ and will only drink from a bathtub tap that is dribbling at just the right volume. One fateful afternoon I decided to give her a taste of my chicken noodle soup broth (keep in mind that this is a cat that is uninterested in anything other than her kibble) well, she loved it. She loved it so much in fact that now she stares me down in the kitchen and jumps when she sees the bowl I gave her the broth in. Oh boy. When she wants to be cuddled she flips around on the floor like a fish. When she scratches something she shouldn't all I have to is calmly tell her not scratch there - to go to her scratching post. And she does!

All this to say, thanks for letting us borrow her Darah, we're having fun. And if we come up with a good video we will post it for you!

Julie

Our Happy Place

2010-07-15T09:29:00.000-07:00

A few months ago I posted this picture of Brad and me just putting the first few possessions in what would soon be our new home. We even had a picnic on our rug! We were SO excited.

Then, after the honeymoon, the real moving in began and our excitement grew... finding the perfect place for each little thing. Arranging and rearranging...

Brad did a brilliant job of making our itty bitty kitchen incredibly functional. He's a born organizer!

We worked hard, painting, sewing, hammering... the list goes on... but it was so worth it. Now that everything is pretty done and we have settled in - I can't even explain how much I love this place.

It is so warm and cozy and peaceful... I love decorating with Brad. I tend to be more antiquey/ vintage, with a peppering of tchotchkys and Brad is more modern and clean with very little around him that doesn't serve a specific purpose.

You would think that might be a difficult match to make but somehow I think it improves both of our styles! His clean lines mixed with my weathered pieces have really created a fun vibe...we balance each other out! I really love being in our little apartment.

We put sand from our honeymoon in that cut glass container on the steamer-trunk-turned-coffee-table that I bought a few years ago - it turned out really neat! And as a side-note, in a 500sf apartment, any piece of furniture that can also double as storage - is a winner.

Another tip for small-space living: use the space available to you, no matter how unconventional. Can you find our microwave in this picture??

I have become as dependent on fresh flowers in the apartment as I am on coffee... It's a problem. But Trader Joe's generally has some pretty good deals on their flowers. Six bucks every couple weeks is a small price to pay for the joy it brings, right?

I am soo in love with this pillow our friend Johnny made for us. So fantastic.

There's our little kitchen all put together. I even made a miniature curtain for the window! You can't see it very well but Brad and I brought home a coffee bag from Hawaii and mounted it on the wall - love it! It has pretty much set the tone for the rest of our kitchen. :)

Brad and I both love to cook. I took this picture of Brad after my first day at Anthropologie... when I came home he had made me Chicken Marsala and a latte! What a guy.

We love having people over! Scott and Heidi were our first dinner guests and we had SO much fun! I made my Mom's Honey Mustard Chicken and asparagus. Yum!

After dinner Brad put his skills to work and made a round of yummy drinks for our guests. I believe Scott is enjoying a Carmel Apple Cider here and Heidi has a Cinnamon Dolce Latte. So much fun.

Nothing makes a place your home like filling it with family and friends. Just because your home is small doesn't mean you can't have people over! This was the biggest crowd by far - Mom, Dad, Scott, Heidi and Kirstie - and it was great!! I might have underestimated how much food I would need but other than that... perfect!

I'll try to start doing shorter, more frequent blogs from now on. I love sharing with everyone! Life is good. :)

Happily Ever After... Part Four (The End)

2010-07-01T18:12:00.001-07:00

Here is the final installment of the wedding blogs!! I hope it hasn't been too monotonous! This post covers the reception and getaway... so much fun.

Here's Brad and me arriving at the reception!

We were so excited to be back in the action after all the photoshooting!

Being announced.

Our first dance... we danced to Phil Wickam's "Holy, Holy, Holy" since it was worshipful and a waltz but in retrospect we probably should have cut it down a little and maybe taken some dance classes... I hope it wasn't TOO painful for our guests!

We, though, were having he time of our life.

Kirsten sent me this picture... I love how it puts you right into the eyes of a guest sitting and watching... such a fun perspective!

Dinner was great! We had The French Gourmet cater and they were so professional and helpful and reasonable... what a blessing! We had Chicken Marsala and Roast Beef and veggies and scalloped potatoes... yum!!

It felt pretty good to sit down for a while!

Thanks hubby! Can I just point out the enormous pile of bread on our table?? How could we possibly eat all that?! Ha! I love it.

Hanging out with Tausha...

Here we are getting ready to cut the cake! We decided to use a grouping of Nothing Bundt Cakes for our dessert instead of one big, and expensive, wedding cake. Besides, we both LOVE Nothing Bundt Cakes!!

I put them all on vintage cake stands and made little signs to let people know which cake was which!

There we go!

Delish!!

Posing with the cake topper I made - pretty good likeness, eh?

hehe

Now we're just being silly...

Giving a toast and thanking our guests.

My lovely cousins Brittany and Anne were so helpful cutting the cake for us!

By the way... Anne has her own catering business! Anne Taylor Catering - you should check her out. :)

Toast time! My Maid of Honor and precious sister Kirstie started...

Then Brad's Best Man and my little brother, Scott took his turn...

You can always count on Scotto to get all misty-eyed. :)

Daddy's turn!

Finally we ended with Brad's Step-Dad Mike. So sweet. I kinda wish we had had more people speak but... what can you do? But to those planning now, really take time and think through stuff like that because you can't go back! Still, it was so amazing having them say a few words.

The father-daughter dance was a real highlight (heck, the whole night was a highlight).

Spending those moments with my dad was such a treat. I loved it.

Then Brad and Rudy joined us - so cute!!

Love.

Let the dancing begin! Here is my Uncle John and his daughter Meghan - so sweet!

And Ezekiel decided to break dance!! Haha!

Family enjoying a chance to catch up...

Kirsten's wedding still life. Love it.

Also splendid.

Time to toss the bouquet!! Gosh the time flew by...

Ready.

Set.

GO!

Frenzy ensues!!

We have a winner!! Good job Kirsten!!

She took a break from celebrating her victory to help me change in to my getaway dress...

We are ready to go!!

The whole party met us outside with sparklers to send us off!

It was so amazing. How cute are Rory and Amy?! They are getting married SO soon!! Speaking of which I have some projects to work on for their big day!

Yay!! I love this picture... completely captures how we were feeling!

Goodbye everyone!!!

Dad doing a little shout-out to the Father of the Bride... I love my dad.

Soo... thank you to everyone that made our wedding so incredible. I couldn't have pulled it off without all of your help. It was an amazing day, but I have to say, it cannot compare to the joy of living everyday with my amazing husband. The magic of that one day honestly pales in comparison to the magic of being married to the man God has designed just for you. Marriage is such a gift and a blessing. I am so thankful for Brad.

Julie

Happily Ever After... Part Three

2010-06-28T09:32:00.000-07:00

Here we are with the third installment in the wedding series! Hope you enjoy it!!

This is one of my favorite shots from the day... Immediately after the ceremony, Brad and I and the wedding party were ferried out onto the front porch while Ashlyn and Heather moved the rest of the crowd over to the "Andalusian" patio for appetizers and refreshments. I remember feeling like I was in a dream... everything was whirling around us but I remember just seeing Brad and thinking, "wow. this is the man I am going to spend the rest of my life with... I love him so much." I felt so incredibly blessed.

A few family members came through and gave us hugs and kisses and shared in our joy...

What an amazing feeling!

Meanwhile our guests were enjoying some delicious looking appetizers! I almost wish we could have been a part of this time as well - I hate missing anything!! ...but we had pictures to take...

Mmm... fruits and veggies with dips and breads...

Grandma... always a kick. :)

Darah and Anthony! We don;t have long to wait before their wedding! October 2nd! It's gonna be great!

I'm so glad everyone enjoyed it so much...

Soon it was time to bustle my dress! Kirsten and Kirstie went to work and did a gorgeous job... thanks girls!

Back downstairs... to my husband... :)

So Happy.

We were so blessed to have Miles officiate.

I loved that window...

One of my favorites!

While we were taking pictures... all the tables were being set up and decorated!

Lovely!

That bouquet was HUGE! Beautiful... but huge!

Ezekiel and Scott. :)

All the girls.

All the guys.

So... we have a lot of pictures coming up and I'm going to try not to put up too many inane comments... so I will just say, "I love these pictures. So much."

(this is my look of joy when I heard they found the missing boutonnieres)

Seriously, Rochelle and Kyle are VERY skilled at creating children.

Yay!! The boutonnieres arrived!!

Oh, they turned out just exactly how I hoped they would.

I was SO excited. This picture makes me laugh, it's so typical of us: me getting all ridiculous about something and Brad trying to bring me back down to earth (though he usually ends up getting excited too - because he's adorable like that.)

My incredibly beautiful sister. I love this picture.

My fantastic sister-in-law Heidi.

My brand-spankin' new sister-in-law Darah, all set to get married in October!

My partner in crime Kirsten.

My sweet "sister" Amy... who will be getting married in, oh, about three weeks!! Rory is a lucky man. :)

The whole gang!

Love it.

Love it in sepia too. :)

Little brother. Probably one of the gentlest men I have ever known.

Me with the guys... Shawn, Scott, and Anthony. :)

Shawn cracked me up...

Mommy and Daddy.

The Diehl gang!

We were so distracted by each other all day... that hasn't gone away... :)

With Brad's mom Rudy and step-dad Mike.

The Wilson gang!

Here come a whole slew of Brad and Julie shots... hold your hats!

I love the Darlington House ones...

We walked around the neighborhood to get more shots.

Brad's looking a little stiff in some of these... Relax! Shake it off Hubby! :)

That's better. Aww... that is my favorite place... right on his shoulder. Thanks for tuning in everyone! I'll try and get the rest of the pictures in one final post... keep checking in for #4 in the series!

Love you all!

Happily Ever After... Part Two

2010-06-24T09:17:00.000-07:00

Here is the next installment in the wedding series! Sorry if I am overwhelming you pictures but it's so hard to choose... thanks again to Steffany and Carson with Nothing But Miracles Photography for capturing such a special day.

My new sister-in-law Darah was a brilliant bridesmaid, she flitted around the dressing room helping all the girls get ready... and look at Amy! So lovely. Her wedding is in less than a month!! And for that matter, Darah's is coming up in October! Gosh... this has been quite the year for weddings!

There's my dress! I loved my dress. So much. And look at my bouquet! Thanks Hannah!

This me and mom right after she arrived at the Darlington House... I was anxiously awaiting her approval of my hair! On the day of your wedding there are two people whose stamps of approval are vitally important... your fiancé's and your mom's. I think I got both. ;-)

Getting the dress down!

Kirstie was a trooper with all those tiny buttons!

There are my shoes! I looked for a long time for the perfect, low-heeled, light grey shoes... there were always either too tall or too expensive. Then I found these! On eBay! They're vintage and my size! And I won't even tell what a steal they were... wouldn't want to cause anyone to stumble with envy. :)

Putting them on... this was a little tricky for a clutz like myself.

Brad's mom, Rudy, seeing me in my dress and everything for the first time... she was SO excited! I love her.

Look at these two! They're a mess! Leave it to the mommy's... so cute.

I gave each of the girls an antique hankie that I embroidered with their initials and put it in a personalized little clutch so they could keep their essentials with them in style! It was really fun to put together.

Aren't they gorgeous?? I seriously have the most beautiful friends and family. Inside even more than outside. These girls are gems. I love each and every one of them. Left to right we have: Kirsten, my dearest friend from college, Kirstie (I know!), sweet, sweet sister, Darah, Brad's sister and my new sister in law, Heidi, my brother's lovely new wife and my other sister in law, and Amy, my precious friend since childhood.

Soon it was time for the bridal portraits and I have to say I was a little uncomfortable at first... but Steffany did a great job.

I like this one with the antique books!

Darah said a prayer for us before we headed out...

One last hug from my mommy before the ceremony.

Brad wore these cufflinks that I gave him for his birthday.

What a handsome guy I married!

Our pastor, and Brad's boss, Miles McPherson, said a prayer for the guys before they headed down for the ceremony.

Here's the little guy that nearly stole show! Our ring bearer, Ezekiel. Looks like Heather is trying to put his bow-tie on in this shot...

Here he is holding the ring pillow I made for the ceremony!

Love that smile.

Walking to the ceremony with my daddy. I love him.

One last kiss for Ezekiel!

I can't even explain how much I love this picture. Brad looks like a little kid at Disneyland he's so excited and Rudy is so emotional! I can't imagine, though, what that must have been like for her... Brad's father passed away when Brad was only ten years old and he is the spitting image of Bill. I know he would be so proud of his son.

The bridesmaids are walking out!

Please don't get me started on why those handsome men are not wearing their boutonnieres. All the time I spent crafting them... **pained face**... However, out of everything that could have gone wrong that day, missing boutonnieres are pretty minor.

The girls, on the other hand, looked perfect. So lovely.

Ezekiel needed a little help figuring out where to go... (I got a little confused myself!) :)

Yay!

I can't tell you the joy I was feeling. Completely indescribable.

It was too much! All of it! I was out of control happy...

But we all pulled it together for the prayer.

Cutest little man.

My Grandpa John read 1st Corinthians 13 for us...

Meanwhile Ezekiel tried to go swimming in the fountain... aww... look at that face!!

Brad and I decided at the last minute to write our own vows... oh man. I knew we would get emotional but I had no idea how emotional it would be! Brad's words were so sweet, so real, so meaningful, so special. I loved it.

He had me laughing one second and crying the next.

All the while, in the back, these faithful ladies were making everything happen!

Ted Vaughn was so kind to do the music for us. He did an amazing job.

Our communion table!

Saying a prayer.

Breaking bread. "This is My Body broken for you. Do this in remembrance of me."

We're married!!

Yay!!

One more kiss for mom!

Happily Ever After... Part One

2010-06-06T10:34:00.001-07:00

I wanted to share some of my favorite pictures from the wedding and the time leading up to the wedding... I hope you enjoy them!! Thank you to Steffany and Carson of Nothing But Miracles Photography for giving us such an incredible gift - you guys are amazing. Also, thanks Kirsten and April for your awesome pictures as well! I loved having those!

This was at the rehearsal, I had just come from my interview at Anthropologie - crazy day!

We had dinner at Vigilucchi's after the rehearsal - the Wilson-Galdonik clan really made it special. Thank you Mike and Rudy!!

It was SOO much fun to have all of my friends together - some of whom (April) I hadn't seen in almost five years! Kirsten came from Washington State, Amy came in from Utah, April from Wyoming, Tausha from BULGARIA!! Ridiculous. I felt so incredibly loved. It was one of the best nights.

After the dinner all of us girls went to Extraordinary Desserts for some tea and goodies and then back to the apartment for some girly time (sorry to kick you out onto the roof boys...).

What an incredible last night as a single lady! The next morning was nuts. I met up with some of the girls for pedicures and manicures (which we waited a ridiculously long time for) and then went back to the hotel room to continue getting ready...

Tausha went and got us some coffee - thank you SO much - and also took care of getting lots of fun primping pictures!

Kirsten took the role of bridesmaid very seriously and even fed me my coffee when my nails were wet. Gosh I love her.

That's me... finessing my vows at the nail shop... Oh boy. Back at the Darlington House things were kicking into high gear.

This is Hannah and her assistant from Modern Bouquet putting together our flowers - beautiful work! I loved them!

Here is Ashlyn from Carter & Cook putting up the hankie garland Kirstie and I made. Well, I gathered the hankies and came up with the design but she did all the "making" - thanks lil sis! You were a life saver.

Some of the hankies I used came from Kirsten's late grandmother, Kirsten knew how much I love vintage hankies and she sent me a boxful a few years ago - they went to good use!

Mom and Brad and I stayed up until 3 o'clock in the morning the night before the rehearsal putting these programs together - so crazy. We laughed watched Lady and the Tramp while we worked, it was pretty fun. I think they turned out pretty well considering how fast we did them! There were SO many little details at the wedding and without the help of my friends, family and especially Ashlyn and Heather I really don't know how we would have pulled it all together!

I finally arrived at the Darlington House with about an hour to finish getting ready and take pictures with my bridesmaids - that's Julie for you! But we made it in the end... :)

Well, that's it for this installment! I will pick up the next post soon with more pictures from the big day!

Julie

Long Time Coming...

2010-06-05T11:46:00.000-07:00

Let me begin by apologizing to anyone who may have been reading my blog and wondered what in the world happened to Julie after she got married. I am sorry.

After our incredible Honeymoon we got home and began to sort through everything and set up house! We worked really hard and had so much fun. I love our little place, it really is such a wonderful home. And the area is amazing too!

We were only home a week before I joined Brad on his business trip to Grand Cayman (that's in the Caribbean for anyone that, like me, was wondering). We went with Miles Ahead to put on the Do Something festival in the Cayman Islands! It was an amazing trip, though I wasn't sure if I was supposed to go at first.

You see, the Tuesday before we were supposed to leave I went up to see Mom, gather up some more stuff from my old room, and to get my passport. Well, I got my passport, but it was EXPIRED! How I could renew my passport in less than a week?? That Friday Brad and I drove up to LA long before sunrise and went to the main passport office in the Federal Building. There we waited, and waited, and waited. But... thank the LORD, we got it! I left with a shiny new passport! So amazing. We made a stop at the Santa Monica Pier on the way home and commemorated our victory with a photobooth session. :)

So that Monday we flew out with Miles and the rest of the team! The Cayman Islands were a really neat experience.

The people were so sweet and so excited to have us there. Our group came a little later than the rest of the team. There had been volunteers there serving in schools, hospitals, and the prison for two weeks prior to our arrival. Since Brad is Miles' assistant I followed along with them to interviews, tv spots, and run throughs of the event... pretty interesting stuff!

After two days, though, I began to feel a little like a third (or sixth) wheel and decided to limit the events to which I would tag along - though Brad insisted that he wanted me at everything - haha. It was nice to just relax at the hotel though, the water was amazing and it was pleasantly warm and humid so I just kicked back and embroidered a sweater. What? You don't embroider on vacations?

The Event was Friday and Saturday and I was on the Sustainability Team which meant that it was my job to walk around with a spiffy new iPad and collect as many names, email addresses, and phone numbers from the crowd as possible! It was pretty fun!

The girl in this picture was part of our team - some of my pictures are "stolen" from the website since I didn't carry a camera the whole time...

I especially loved getting the chance to do some kiddie face painting... kids an art. Perfect combo. :)

The actual event was incredible. The music was amazing, Miles' message was really powerful and a lot of people came to know the Lord.

On Saturday morning we had a opportunity to join a group on a trip to "Sting Ray City". It's a sand bar out in the ocean that has a huge population of sting rays and we got to hang out with them! Now I'm talking about Sting Rays, not Manta Rays. These guys had barbs! These guys KILLED Steve Irwin! Yikes! They were swimming all around us! Then, one of the guides had me hold out my arms and he directed one of the sting rays over to me - I was HOLDING it!

Just when you think that's crazy enough he told me to KISS it! What?! Haha! It was amazing! I was totally hanging out with this wild animal! Brad was SO excited. He loved it! He found one without a tail named "Frisbee" and decided they would be best friends. ;-)

We had the next day free so Brad and I took out a catamaran and he taught me how to sail! It was really fun! I was nervous at first but I caught on and Brad was able to hang out on the boat and dip his feet in the water while I sailed. At first I figured he was being generous letting me take the helm for so long... then I realized he didn't WANT to sail! He wanted to relax so he taught me how to do the hard labor! Sheesh! Haha! Oh, and then he got a little rowdy and flipped us over. But no worries, he flipped us back. Oh man... we've been laughing a lot.

Later we met up with Miles, his daughter Kellie, his brother-in-law Mike, and Chad the security guy to do some snorkeling - that was fun. Miles brought bread so all the fish went nuts and crowded around us!

Brad, Chad, and Mike decided to film their own underwater nature videos and Brad ended up getting his head stuck in a reef... which was pretty hilarious, except for the fact that he really did gash his head, poor guy. We were a little concerned about the blood drawing sharks but all's well that ends well!

I even got to play with a parrot!

We headed home the next day and I was wiped out! Luckily we were able to rest on Tuesday and get some chores done before we both started work the next day.

Yep, you heard right! I started work! I am now an employee of Anthropologie! So I am now working most days and for a long time we did not have internet at home... but I am resourceful and figured out an inexpensive fix to that problem...

So you now know why it has been awhile since my last post. I hope you can forgive me. I will try to make up for it and bring you lots of good updates from now on!

Love you guys!!
Julie

Mrs. Wilson <- That's ME!!

2010-05-03T15:37:00.000-07:00

Oh my goodness. I feel like if I don't write something right now... this first married blog post will quickly become so huge in my mind that I will never be able to write it and my blogging career will be over. There is so much to be written, so many pictures to post, so many stories to tell... but for now I will just say this.

Brad and my wedding was the most beautiful day I could ever have imagined. It was such an indescribable feeling to be surrounded by all of my family and friends - some of whom travelled ridiculously far to be there - in such a beautiful place, marrying the most wonderful man I have ever known.

I was a mess of emotions. I thought Brides were supposed to be perfect. I figured, once I put that dress on and veil, all less-than-beautiful habits of the human body would cease and I would become a picture of perfection. Oh no, the minute Brad started reading me his vows, I started to tear up, then my nose started running, and running. Thank goodness Brad and I both had our hankies on us - he dabbed my eyes and even my nose to keep me together. Gosh, I love him.

Other than my waterworks, though, everything was perfect. I couldn't have asked for a better day. We left the next day for Hawaii and it was such a great trip. I had never spent that much time with Brad in my life! For 12 days we never left the other's side and every moment of it was wonderful. Seriously. We never got tired of each other. Crazy! :)

Being home has been great too. Everything just feels so right, so natural. We've been having a blast getting our apartment set up and decorating. I can't wait to start having people over!

Ok. Well, I will need to do a wedding post, honeymoon post, and home post but since we don't have internet at home yet please be patient with me! I'll do my best! Love you guys!!

A Lovely Affair

2010-03-31T10:41:00.000-07:00

I recently enjoyed the most beautiful Bridal Shower on March 27th... my aunt Lynne did an amazing job putting it all together and my Grandma Taylor, my Mom, my sister Kirstie, and my Aunts Janet and Susie also helped so much. I can't explain how loved I felt that Saturday and what a lovely and incredible party they put together for me.

It was held at my Grandma's home in Glendale and they had been fixing it up for weeks before the party - it looked amazing! Our family has had so many memories at that house. My parents and all of my aunts and uncles had their wedding receptions there and I had many a birthday in the backyard. It is definitely a special place.

I was so blessed to have all of my friends and family there with me. My soon-to-be Mother in Law came all the way from Rhode Island! One of my bridesmaids came from Utah! These women are so special to me - every one of them.

Ninny (my aunt Lynne) made me "Coronation Chicken" since it's fit for royalty - hah! We also had deviled eggs, fruit, candied pecans, yummy rolls, and all kinds of goodies. Delicious.

Beautiful ranunculus!

My sister and my Grandma Ruth, so cute.

Love my Grandmas. Love them.

Then the gifts started. I've rarely been in a situation where I opened presents alone while people watched. At least not for a long time... it was a little odd. But fun. :)

My friends put together some very pretty packages. I am blessed.

I love this picture... It completely tells the story of what was going on... You have me looking at Kirstie with a "you didn't" face and Kirstie with her pretty little head cocked in a "oh you bet I did" response. Classic picture Heidi, thanks.

My beautiful Mom.

My stunning sister and Maid of Honor.

Admiring my gorgeous cake!

Seriously! Look at it! It's perfect!! Ninny had it made for me at the Cakery Bakery.

I still can't believe how gorgeous everything was. It looked like a magazine! Truly amazing.

My precious soon to be Mother in Law and Sister in Law! They are the sweetest people and I am so blessed to have them in my life.

Getting ready to cut!

Delicious.

Amy and Kirstie dear friends, sisters, and bridesmaids. Amy is actually getting married in July and Kirstie and I will be bridesmaids in her wedding! I tell you, something's in the water around here...

Mom with my first-cousin-once-removed (or my cousin's baby) Jack. What a doll.

Me and Ames.

The incredible flowers by Jacob Marse. A gift from my mom and SOO beautiful. I have to admit... I am a little nervous that this shower was TOO beautiful. People are going to expect the same level of perfection at the wedding and I may not be able to deliver! Oh dear...

My sweet sister-in-law Heidi (and the photograper of the day). I love her. Scott picked me out a great new sister.

All in all a lovely day, in a beautiful home with all of the women that mean so much to me. I am so blessed to be surrounded my strong Christian women. I love the tradition of showering the Bride before her wedding, not just for the presents but for the support and love and encouragement of it. It felt like I was taking part in something so ancient and important. Every culture has their own way of preparing a young woman for this new phase in her life and I find it fascinating to see how God uses these cultural traditions to really build bonds and fill a very real need. Sorry for the anthropological tangent... not sure where that came from. All I wanted to say was Thank You to everyone that came and everyone that was a part of making my shower happen. Especially Ninny. It was perfect. Love you guys!!

Our First Place...

2010-03-17T14:48:00.000-07:00

Brad and I started looking around for an apartment probably about a month ago and before we visited the first one we prayed together in the car that the Lord would give us discernment and that we would know instantly whether the place was right or wrong for us. We didn't want to make a mistake!

We are both drawn to historic buildings, hardwood floors, lots of light, quirky details, and most importantly, safe areas. One after another we visited apartments and scratched them off the list for one reason or another... a couple of times we almost jumped on a unit but were held back for some reason.

One night we went to take a second look at a place we'd been thinking about - it was historic, in a good area, and had CRAZY good views (top floor corner in that picture). But it was also tiny and the rest of the building was pretty run down... still, we needed a second look. Well, we got there only to find out that the apartment had been rented along with every other one bedroom in the building. Brad was crushed.

All that was left were the studio's... should we try that until a one bedroom opens up again? We decided it might be a good idea so we got the paper work, took out $30 each for the credit check, and filled everything out over pizza. Just we were filling it out I got a call from another property manager who had a space that was opening up... two blocks away! He wondered if we would be interested in seeing it. The timing couldn't have been better so we took it as a sign and hauled our hineys over there!

We looked at everything they had available in that building and, though we really liked them, felt like we needed to see more. I glanced at the available units sheet he was holding and asked him what that other building was at the bottom of the page, "Oh, that the Catalina, cute little building... you want to see it?" at this point it was nearly 8pm, "Are you sure you don't mind?" I asked. "Heck no! I've got the keys right here! Hop in my car!" Normally I wouldn't suggest hopping in the cars of strangers but desperate times call for desperate measures! Besides he was a sweet old man!

The second we pulled up I knew. This was our home! It was perfect! Somehow it just resonated with me...

We walked through the front door and I saw the dark wood paneling, then I took a deep breath... it smelled like England. Like an old English B&B. I was falling fast. Up the winding stairs to second floor (of three)... down the short but wide hallway to Apt. #5. He turned the old key in the antique brass lock and the door swung open to reveal the most amazing apartment I could have imagined for us.

It is simply amazing. From the hardwood floors to the quirky turn-of-the-century details it has everything we wanted and more.

It's even in a really nice neighborhood! If we had been trying to buy the place I would have ruined the sale for sure. I stopped myself just short of kissing the leaded glass doors... I did get a little teary eyed... and I maybe have done a small dance in the bedroom... Needless to say we handed him the $60 instead and immediately filled out the paperwork. When he looked at Brad's application he chuckled, "Oh, you guys are fine, you'll be approved no problem." "Why is that?" Brad asked quizzically. "Well, says here you work for that Miles McPherson. The owner of the building goes to that church!" ...Thank you Lord! :)

That was about two weeks ago and now Brad has the keys and is starting to move stuff over. He'll be moving in on the 1st and I'll move in when we get back from the honeymoon... I can't wait! We already bought a darling rug and picked out our couch and that is really all we needed! I have a kitchen table, nightstands, and another little table, Brad has chairs, a bed and a dresser and that's pretty much all we have room for! Hah! He is building a bookcase/ media cabinet for the "living room". Oh man. It's going to be so cute. Every little thing we bring over gets us more excited.

On Sunday we made a little picnic on our new rug. Our first meal in our new apartment! We felt it was a momentous occasion. It will be so much fun when we get everything set up and can invite people over! Yay!!

One Month to Go!!

2010-03-17T10:21:00.000-07:00

Wow... how time flies! Sorry I haven't been a very good blogger lately. It seems like I never stop from the moment I get up until late at night... and yet my to do list never seems to shrink! The second I cross one thing off something new is added. Here are a few of the projects I've been working on...

I finally finished the invitations, which was a huge project, but I think they turned out pretty well!

Brad and I had our silhouettes done at Disneyland one day so we put those at the top. I wrote out our names and scanned them in to Photoshop.

I found antique wallpaper and scanned that in and re-sized it for the envelopes. Brad figured out how print them in the shape of an envelope.

I collected antique stamps for the postage (which Brad thought was a little crazy at first but now admits is one of his favorite parts of the invite). Brad and Kirstie helped me apply the stamps.

I drew out the response card... and last, but not least, I addressed them all! Phew!

Oh, and the lovely flowers were a present from Brad in my darkest hour... when the invites HAD to go out and I was so so sick... and he then sat up with me and helped me until they were completely finished. What a guy.

My next project was the boutennieres... I visited the famous Tinsel Trading Co. while I was in NYC and the owner was sweet enough to help me put together some ideas.

Heaven.

I knew I didn't want fresh flowers because I wanted them to last forever as a keepsake. I love boutonnieres too much to see them wilt.

Once I was home and the invitations were done I was able to start in on my pet project!

I put together different combinations until I found something I liked and then I taped them together and wrapped the stems with ribbon! I still need to figure out how to attach them to the boys - safety pins? Straight pins? Duct tape??

Golly, though, I love them... Now on to the next project!

Rain

2010-02-09T19:04:00.000-08:00

We've been having a lot of rain in Sunny California lately and I love what it does to our little town. Once brown hillsides are rapidly turning green... the dry, cracked riverbed is now rushing with life... and the air is crisp and fresh.

I know the rain can get old and be inconvenient, but I do wish we could get it a little more frequently. It's good for my soul.

Save the Date!

2010-01-14T16:31:00.001-08:00

The save the dates are finished and have been sent off! I am so happy with the way they turned out... Sure it took a little longer to draw everything out by myself but it was worth it. In the end they came out to be really affordable too! Bonus!

I wish I could have used my cute vintage stamps on them (like the picture) but, alas, I didn't leave myself enough room for fifteen stamps. Oh well, more for the invites! :)

Fair Isle

2010-01-14T10:26:00.000-08:00

I have been asked to work on some Fair Isle designs this year for Taylor Linens and I am so excited about it! We will start out with more light, spring colored designs in duvets and accessories but I'm already dreaming of how it can translate into fall... ahh so amazing.

It's vintage and classic but just funky enough to keep it fresh. Frankly I don't know why we didn't do it before!

Now I just need to figure out how to design our own Fair Isle pattern, but I feel up to the challenge. This is going to be fun. :)

Hmm... that picture at the top is inspiring me to buy Brad a Fair Isle Vest!

Time to Buckle Down.

2010-01-07T13:17:00.000-08:00

Decorations have been put up and taken down... presents have been wrapped, unwrapped, and put away... meals have been cooked and consumed... carols have been sung... friends and family have come and gone... the Holidays are officially over.

We had so much fun this year. I don't think I've ever bounced around from party to party like we did this year. Maybe the busiest Christmas season I can remember but so worth it.

There was a lot of crafting of presents this year. I crocheted Scott and Heidi a pillow, Kirstie made a sock animal for Brad (he named him Rupert), I embroidered a pillow for mom, Heidi knit a scarf for Brad, Kirstie painted one bird for Mom and one for Scott and Heidi. So much fun.

I loved having Brad's family out here and being able to share a bit of our Christmas traditions with them. Mike and Rudy are such special people and I feel so blessed to be a part of their family. We even went geocaching with them in Old Town Temecula! Hah!

Kirstie and I both got a little sick... but we were well taken care of. That's me all bundled up with a sleeping bag. I think I've finally learned my lesson about pulling all-nighters.

Lots of fun. I love family. :)

So. Now it's time to focus! Enough with the fun and games! Brad and I have a little over three months left before the wedding and there is still SO much to be done. But we have lots of good ideas and I can't wait to get cracking!

Happy Bundt Day!

2009-12-17T12:22:00.000-08:00

My sweet coordinators mentioned me on their blog today! I am very excited to have a variety of different delicious bundts at our wedding and it seems this is an inspirational idea! Hehe... how fun. :)

Autumnal Glory

2009-12-15T13:20:00.000-08:00

I have to admit... I have a thing for fall weddings. Not that I am not incredibly excited about my April wedding (it's going to be amazing). But had life dealt a different hand and I was planning for an autumn wedding I would imagine it something like this...

Ahh... wellies, wool blankets, fall leaves... little pumpkins... lots of love. So so sweet. Doesn't it all look so cozy??

Darlington House!

2009-12-02T13:43:00.000-08:00

After two months of looking Brad and I finally have a venue! We have booked the Darlington House! It is so completely adorable. Not only is it a 1920's mansion with beautiful gardens and courtyards (that would be wonderful enough as it is) but is is run my the sweetest little old ladies in the whole wide world! Even the money that you pay to rent the home goes towards helping the elderly! How much more lovely could it be?

Our tour guide was Rebecca, she was spit fire! At first I was a little concerned that it might takes us three years to complete the tour (her pace was a little more...protracted than ours)... but in the end slow and steady wins the race. Besides, it was fun to spend time with Rebecca. She's a kick. Though I fear she likes Bradley more than she likes me, "Ooo! You're a lefty!! We lefties are the smart ones. I trust you."

We are both so excited and blessed to be able to have our wedding here, it is going to be beautiful. Thanks for praying!!

Scott and Heidi are Married!!

2009-11-24T13:37:00.000-08:00

I am so amazed that I've arrived at this stage in my life... my little brother is off on his honeymoon, my little sister will soon be away at college, and Brad and I are planning our wedding! Somehow we all grew up when I wasn't really paying attention. I always imagined this stage in our lives, everyone going off, falling in love, starting our own families, yet it never really seemed like it would ever get here, that it could be now! Time flies.

The wedding was lovely. Heidi looked radiant. Scott looked handsome and adorable. The ceremony was meaningful, sweet, and emotional. Everyone had fun at the reception. And Heidi made scarves for everyone - it was insane! But very much appreciated by the guests - it really made everyone feel very loved... and warm. Hehe. Overall an amazing day. And now Scotty is on a cruise ship with his WIFE!! So weird. In a good way. :)

I think I'm really going to enjoy having Heidi as a sister. She is really good for Scott and very sympatico with our little family. Brad and Scott have gotten really close too which is such an incredible blessing. His toast to Scott at the wedding had most of us in tears. I love them both so much and it's the best gift ever to have them be close like that.

Sigh... Life is really good. God is really good.

Picnic on the Plateau

2009-11-11T10:39:00.000-08:00

In honor of the fall and our love of the outdoors - and my fascination with anything vintage - Brad and I decided to have an old-fashioned picnic for our engagement pictures. We are so happy with how they turned out!

Steffany and Carson, the adorable husband and wife team of Nothing But Miracles Photography, were kind enough to take the pictures for us. They did such and incredible job and were so much fun to work with. Love them.

Now, we are not showing anyone our favorites because we want to save those for the save the date postcards but enjoy the rest!

Carter & Cook

2009-11-09T15:01:00.000-08:00

I am so excited right now! I wanted to wait to tell everyone until it was official but it looks like Brad and I will be working with the incredible Carter & Cook Event Company! Brad, Kirstie and I met with Ashlyn and Heather tonight and they are the sweetest, most talented girls! They will be helping me to keep everything organized and within our budget and beautiful. I feel completely confident that they know what they're doing... look at some of their work!

Peaches!

Buttons and pretty paper!

Big oak trees and wicker baskets! Sigh... they get me.

Oh, and p.s. I found my dress!! Yippee!!

Crazy Times!

2009-11-05T15:22:00.000-08:00

Well, life has been super hectic lately.

Brad and I have been visiting venue options (we've narrowed it down to three!). Mom and Kirstie and I have been dress shopping (so confusing!). I've been planning parties (Amy's send off was sooo fun!) and going to parties (thanks Dan!). Getting Spud Muffin orders ready. Not to mention work! So I apologize for not updating the blog in a little while. I will try to keep up with it! I do love blogging... :)

Having gone to a few different dress shops now and I think I have a better idea of what I am looking for but it is hard to find just the right one - you know? I saw this beauty on Ritzy Bee today and, well, it's perfect. Really, really, perfect. Argh! If only I knew who made it!

Look at the back!! ::swoon::

In other news... Brad and I getting some engagement pictures done this weekend by the lovely Steffany of Nothing But Miracles Photography and my head is positively spinning with ideas for the shoot...

I think a picnic at the plateau is in order... :)

The Lord Provides

2009-10-28T00:00:00.000-07:00

Sometimes it seems like God has to keep teaching me the same lessons over and over again. Lately He has been reminding me that when I put my trust in Him and do things His way and honor Him with my time, talent, and treasure (as Miles would say) that everything else will fall into place. No need to fret. "But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own." - Matt. 6:33-34

So, what, Julie, has brought about this revelation once again to you today? Well, I really wanted to channel these darling vintage postcard inspired save the dates...

I knew, however, that we would have to have some engagement pictures taken and I wanted them to be quality but I also knew that our budget may not allow for a professional shoot so I prayed about it (I know, I know I pray about silly things but God tells us to pray continuously, right?) and tried not to think about it too much.
Well, yesterday, whilst perusing facebook, I noticed that one of my friends had made a page for her new photography business. I have always admired her pictures of her darling kids... Well, lo and behold she and her husband are trying to build their portfolio and announced that the first five friends to ask would get a free photoshoot! No way! So ...I asked! (obviously) And she said yes! Woo hoo! Oh, and their business is called Nothing but Miracles Photography - how appropriate. Look at her amazing pictures (and babies!)...

Gah... maybe she won't notice if I steal baby Tyler... :)

Venue Updates...

2009-10-20T22:40:00.000-07:00

On Thursday Brad and I checked out the schoolhouse and I guess we're going to keep looking... The actual schoolhouse was very cute and Stephanie was helpful and sweet but neither of us are fans of gazebos and/or painted concrete. I don't know, it just didn't feel right.

I think we'll know it when we see it. We both still really like the Thursday Club (not available on Saturday the 17th - only Sunday) and when we talked to Pastor Miles he said he might be willing to tape the first service and possibly just to a video cast for the remaining 4 services that Sunday! So sweet.

I wish we could use an old church (I have a thing for pews) but it would seem that they all require you to use their clergy for the ceremony and some even require you to be baptized into their church! (Reminds me of My Big Fat Greek Wedding). Brad thinks maybe he could pull some strings though so I'll keep my chin up!

We are also going to check out a couple of places in Temecula (as a last resort if nothing in San Diego works). One is an estate and it looks very pretty... and the other is an outdoorsy, park scenario with lots of trees. Which I love the idea of - I imagine it looking something like this:

Which is my problem. get all excited imagining what it could look like then I get there and it's not nearly as cute as my head made it out to be. :(

Oh well, I can't worry about it... as the Lord has told me, "...I know the plans I have for you... plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." (Jeremiah 29:11) He has it all figured out - I just have to have faith.

Little Girl at Heart...

2009-10-20T16:56:00.000-07:00

Do you remember that childhood game where you take your little lunch apple and carefully, slowly twist the stem one turn at a time as you count out "A, B, C..." etc until the stem finally breaks off? Then whichever letter you land on is the first letter of the name of the man you will marry? That was my kind of game as a kid. Romantic, easy, a little mysterious...

Well, I just played it again, sitting here at my desk... and I landed on "B"! How convenient! :)

Taylor Linens Photoshoot

2009-10-19T16:31:00.000-07:00

We had the big photo shoot on Friday for Taylor Linens and it went really well. It was a little hairy there for a while wondering whether or not we would get a courier of new samples in time (which we didn't) but in the end we got some beautiful shots... and even got to use a puppy! I love seeing how everything comes together.

Photoshoots and Schoolhouses

2009-10-14T12:36:00.000-07:00

Well, Thursday and Friday are shaping up to be busy days... Brad and I are visiting the Old Richland Schoolhouse in San Marcos on Thursday afternoon so see if it might work as a venue for our wedding.

We are doing all of this a little faster than a lot of couples so we need to reserve a spot quick before they're all taken! This place does sound nice and intimate but it's so hard to tell from pictures some times. The girl that works there is very sweet though so I'm hoping that will translate into a sweet place to get married as well!

Taylor Linens is having a big photoshoot on Friday so the rest of Thursday is going to spent running errands and ironing and fluffing to get ready for the big day! I love photoshoots but the set-up can be draining... pray I have energy! Our photographer, Rick, is amazing though and it's so much fun to work with him and our stylist Carey. I love them...

New spud muffins pictures!

2009-10-13T13:23:00.000-07:00

Brad and I did a little photoshoot a couple weeks ago - what do you think? :)

The whole gang! It took awhile to get them to all sit still and look at the camera... crazy kids.

Shy Harold. His hood is way too small for his noggin.

Chuck. Funny little baby chicken/duck...

Frances... with her sweet pink sweater. She is so smart...

Megumi is a little jumpy - it makes her a target for practical jokes... poor bunny.

Hazel is the new kid on the block. But she's got a schnazzy bow so she'll be fine.

Duncan's off to cause havoc... dinosaurs are trouble.

My little Oliver... golly I love that one... I just wanna squish him!

~ Utterly Engaged ~

2009-10-12T13:24:00.000-07:00

It's been one month since Mount Washington and I feel like I've been caught up in a whirlwind of activity. I don't know if I have ever been so excited and simultaneously so overwhelmed in my life. I am marrying my very dearest friend. A man I love, trust and respect completely. I am so perfectly at peace with our decision to get married - but it is still a lot to take in! So much is happening in the next six months it is kind of amazing. My brother is getting married to the most lovely girl in November, my little sister is going off to UCSD in January, and now I'm getting married in April!! Oh, my poor mother. As she so perfectly put it, "They are all good things... but all at once it's just too much!"

My brother and his fiancee had the most darling engagement photos taken! Hmm... I think Brad and I may need some of these done... aren't they precious?

So, why April? Well, a few reasons. Logistically, April 17th is the only day in all of April and May that our pastor could officiate our wedding. April weddings are less expensive than June weddings and often have better weather (and everything is so green!). Everyone we have talked to has told us to keep the engagement short and the wedding simple - it's about the marriage not the wedding. Also, we believe that the Lord has plans for us and for our life together and if you truly believe that, it seems wrong to put His plans on hold so that you can have more time or money to plan a party (more or less). Not only that but we love each other and can't wait to be married! So, in the end, April is what works for us and what we feel good about.

Now the rubber hits the road! I have so many ideas and so much to do! I hope you enjoy the journey with me!

...the story continues...

2009-09-29T10:09:00.000-07:00

The morning of the hike I woke up excited, a little bleary-eyed, and hungry. When I got downstairs the air was crisp with excitement Brad, Mike and Rudy were busily gathering everything we would need and packing up the car. Strangely enough, though, no one else seemed to want breakfast! So I concocted a lovely mix of yogurt, granola, almonds, and fresh fruit to take on the road and Brad brewed me a travel mug of coffee... gosh I love him. He gives me coffee. :)

With everyone loaded into the Toyota (puppies included) we headed up the highway to New Hampshire. You would think I'd have been more concerned than I was that Mr. Brad had absolutely no appetite on the morning of a big hike. I mean; you need sustenance for this kind of thing! But oh no, I just ate my yogurt and snoozed. Though I was curious about his mom's seemingly unending (and adorable) excitement for a hike she wasn't even going on! Again and again she asked if I was excited for the hike... "Are you excited????" "Um... yeah! I like mountains!" Haha! Boy was I dense…

We arrived at Pinkham Notch at the base of Mt. Washington around 10am after a four hour drive… stretched our legs, took advantage of the facilities, took some pictures, said our goodbyes (lots of hugs), and headed up the mountain!

This is exactly the kind of environment I love to hike in… lush, tall trees, rushing rivers and streams, big rocks, crisp air, and fantastic company.

It didn’t take long before I started to realize that I hadn’t moved much in the last week. I was becoming somewhat nervous about the hike ahead so I developed a system to arrange mini-breaks without Brad realizing that I was a big wimp. “Oh wow! Look at that view! I need at least twelve pictures!”, “Do you need some water? I’m a little parched”, “Wow! Look at that bug!!”, “Can I have a hug? I need a hug.” So many options… :)

Soon enough, however, I got into the swing of it and actually felt pretty energetic. Heck, I was skipping up those rocks with the best of them! Ok, maybe that’s an exaggeration. It is. Actually. But I was doing a lot better.

Before I knew it we were at the Caretaker’s Cabin where we had agreed to stop for lunch. It’s amazing how warm all that physical exertion keeps you… ten minutes after we sat down we both had our fleeces on. I had no idea that it was chilly up there until I stopped! We enjoyed some peanut butter on a whole grain bagel and took in the incredible views for about 15 minutes before continuing the climb.

Our next section was the “headwall” (whatever that means) of Tuckerman’s Ravine. The “trail” quickly disappeared as we scrambled up and over boulders and rocks… it was something like a never-ending, evil stairmaster.

Ninny, if you are reading this, think Atlanta stairs times 100. They paint yellow arrows on the rocks so that you know where to go. Luckily the amazing views kept me from noticing any pain… almost any pain... it really was so so pretty.

When we got to the next little section I was awestruck. There were little streams coming down the mountain, wildflowers, mossy rocks, and a view that quite literally took my breath away. It was one of the most beautiful spots I have ever seen. Tucked away in the middle of this crazy mountain range. Wow.

Brad suggested we rest on this big flat rock for a little while. I was thrilled to stop and take some pictures! Brad was snapping away as well… though mostly just of me. Hah, always a little awkward, but adorable.

I pulled out a snack pack of cheez-its that had been in my backpack. It was tiny so I figured even though I’m not a huge cheez-it fan it might be a good snack. I also thought it might be fun to alternate popping a cheez-it in my mouth, then popping one in Brad’s mouth until the bag was empty... what? Was that cheesy? Hehe. Poor Brad got sick of this game unusually quickly. “Can we be done with the snacks? Please?” “What? No way! It’s a tiny bag – if I put it back like this the crumbs will all settle at the bottom of my bag… gross.” “Ok, ok. I’ll finish it.” I couldn't figure out why he seemed so nervous! Wasn’t it his idea to rest??

Once we finished the bag he waited for some people to pass us and then hopped up and scrounged around in his backpack, pulling out a balled-up sock. He slowly walked over and knelt down in front of me. I looked around… wondering why he was sitting like that… couldn’t be comfortable I thought. (Again. Why am I such a dunce??). Stupidly, I start to open a fruit snack much to my Bradley’s chagrin. “Julie! Enough snacks!” He cried pleadingly.

Suddenly I realized what that look in his eyes was and why he was on one knee and what he was holding… and I started to cry (happy tears of course!!). He said some really really sweet things and asked me if I would marry him. ………. sigh………….

I was a mess of tears and blubbering... I couldn’t even get a simple “Yes!” out! I just threw my arms around him and laughed and cried. “Should I take that as a ‘yes’?” “Yes!!” :-D

Just at that moment another couple was passed by and Brad asked if they would mind taking some pictures for us – she was probably wondering why in the world this guy would want pictures of me crying. Hah! When I told her what had just happened she shrieked, “What?! Just NOW??? AAAHH!!! I’ll take LOTS of pictures for you!! YAY!!” Haha! She was awesome.

Once all of the pictures of us glowing and blubbering and laughing had been taken we took a moment to revel in our new ENGAGED status… “Hello fiancé…” “Hello fiancée.” Wow. :)

Having come (a little bit) back down to earth, we put our packs back on and continued up the mountain… which is tricky when you can’t stop staring at your hand. :) I was flying up the mountain at this point – I felt no pain. I starting singing Sound of Music songs and spinning around (no, I’m not kidding). I was so excited and joyful and foggy I hardly noticed the steep climb.

Except that I was concerned about nicking or scratching my beautiful new ring! How could he give me such a beautiful piece of jewelry while I’m supposed to be climbing a mountain?? Agh!

Climbing, climbing, scrabbling, teetering, climbing, singing, climbing… it kinda went on forever… At one point this group of hiking-folk passed by and looked at me working my way through a tricky spot and pleasantly called out “How ya doin’?” Most likely expecting a pained moan and a “Are we getting close??” or at least a conservative “I think I’ll make it!” but oh no… they got, “FanTAStic!!!!” and a big, beaming smile. They thought I was on drugs. Brad was laughing so hard I thought he might fall off the cliff!

The last stretch was the hardest but we finally made it to the top and were instantly enveloped in a cloud. It was cold at the top! Mt. Washington has the worst weather in the world! That is documented fact. They have clocked the world's highest wind speeds on the mountaintop. Once inside the warmth and comfort of the observatory we began calling our families to tell them our news!

It wasn’t long before we realized that it had taken us a little longer than expected to summit and that at this point, if we decided to hike down the mountain, we would be hiking in the dark. Now, don’t worry, Brad is ALWAYS prepared so we had headlamps and warm clothes and anything and everything we could ever possibly need, but still… It seemed wiser to go ahead and take the last shuttle down the mountain. While we were waiting for the shuttle we sent a postcard home, rested, and reveled in the bliss of our future together.

The shuttle ride was actually really fun! Our driver was very informative and really enjoyed picking Brad’s brain about the AT and the PCT (two crazy hikes he’s done). The sun was setting over the mountains and the views were golden and amazing.

Once we got down we enjoyed a celebratory reunion with Mike and Rudy, lots of hugs, tears and laughter, and then went to dinner. We didn’t get home until 3am, we were SO exhausted… but not too exhausted to talk to one of my best friends in Bulgaria. :)

Oh my goodness… I’m engaged!!!!!

Amazing Times...

2009-09-14T13:23:00.000-07:00

I've been putting off this blog post for almost a MONTH now - it just seemed so overwhelming I couldn't quite get it out! But here goes:

The whole trip to Rhode Island was amazing and crazy. Brad and I got to his parent's house Wednesday night. On Thursday his mom convinced us that our trip would not be complete unless we participated in her church's Cardboard Boat Regatta. So we spent much of the day making a cardboard boat. :)

On Friday we took the Vineyard Fast Ferry to Martha's Vineyard and spent some time just wandering through the cute streets of Oak Bluffs and Edgartown.

It was incredibly beautiful and relaxing...

We got breakfast, did a little shopping, visited a lighthouse, had some ice cream, and just enjoyed the day. After getting back to RI we had some BBQ with Mike and Rudy and headed home - sun burnt and sleepy.

Saturday began with high hopes of working on our, now all-consuming, boat before Danielle's wedding but that didn't work out quite as planned so we just headed straight to the church. Which was, as it turns out, just a few block's from Brad's parent's house!

The setting was idyllic, Danielle was lovely, and the ceremony was meaningful and sweet. I loved it. After the ceremony we rushed back to main street and picked up a card (oops!) from a local calligrapher. Then we took our time driving to the Narragansett Towers and stopped by Brad's alma mater, URI. It was a beautiful campus. I asked Brad if it was strange to have me there - if it felt like two different worlds were colliding. He said, "No, you are my world now. It never feels strange to have you with me." ...sigh...

Once we got to the Towers the reception had begun and it was gorgeous! They did a really nice job. The food, music, flowers, everything was perfect.

After the reception we went up to Providence to take in WaterFire. Wow. It was unbelievable! They light bonfires all long the river that runs through the city center, then they play incredible music, then they light chandeliers under the bridges, then they bring out the gondolas. It was intensely beautiful and quite romantic. I got a little teary actually.

That night we had to kick it into gear with the boat. So we put on some grubby clothes and got to work. We worked until 3 o'clock in the morning... and still had more to do when we got up!

That next morning... THE morning... we frantically glued and painted and duct taped until we were covered in paint, hot glue burns, and blisters.

Finally, we finished. Moments before the big regatta. So we threw our little boat into the car and drove like mad to park.

Shock. We had been pretty impressed with our little boat... It was, after all, merely made of cardboard. Who knew this so-called church was attended solely by engineers, craftsmen, boat-makers, and magicians??? These were not merely "cardboard boats" these were beautiful, solid, sea-worthy, watercraft! They were incredible!! Suddenly our boat, formerly the "sure thing", the undoubted winner, was the underdog!

The feeling I got looking at our sad little boat was something akin to the feeling a protective mother might get when her sickly child tries out for the soccer team. You want them to do well, you're so proud, but still you wonder... I mean, the other kids are HUGE!

Still, we took our boat-lette down to the beach amid murmurs of "look at that little boat!" and "oh! a late entry!" or "here's another one!"... Now at the beach, standing proudly in our life jackets, oars in hand, we were ready. The gun fired. We ran with our boat into the water. "Hop in!" Brad cried exuberantly. I unsteadily lower myself into our little boat... water rushes around my ankles... is that normal? Brad hops in. We hit the bottom. As our boat quickly transforms into a wet wad of toilet paper Bradley continues to paddle madly as we both gasp for air between fits of laughter. We soon give up and dragged our poor little boat to the bouy and back again, still laughing.

On the shore, our wreck drew almost as large of a crowd as the winning boat! Humans are, by nature, fascinated by the failures of others and, boy, we represented one spectacular failure! Hah! Little kids can be particularly cutting, "What happened to your boat? Did it flip?" - kid. "Nope. It stayed right-side-up the whole way down..." - Brad. :) The other boats continued to amaze. Sure, there were a few sad sacks, but the majority came out fantastically unscathed! Brad's mom's boat looked perfect!

The winners took their boat out again and paddled around for awhile... the flat bottom boat folks attached an outboard motor to their "cardboard" boat and cruised around! Disgusting.

We looked on at their success as we stuffed what was left of our little boat into a trash bag and consoled ourselves with frozen lemonade. All in all it was a pretty good day. :)

The next day was our big hike up to Mt. Washington so we ran a couple of errands, packed our backpacks, prayed, and got some sleep.

...to be continued...

Off to Rhode Island...

2009-09-01T23:56:00.001-07:00

Well, I should be crawling into bed since I have to be up again in five hours but I thought I'd put up one last post before I leave.

The experience of packing for this trip has taught me something about myself... I am a suitcase girl. Not a carry-on girl. Oh how I would love to be a carry on girl. That effortlessly chic and pulled together woman that throws in simply the necessities; probably a simple pair black heels, a suit, maybe a sleek LBD (that's Little Black Dress to you), a tube of lipstick and some perfume... and that's it. All she requires to look perfect fit's comfortably in the overhead compartment.

I, on the other hand, started the evening with a carry on, a small stack of clothes, and the dream of fitting in the overhead compartment... transitioned to the expanded carry-on which now does not fit in the overhead compartment but still looks respectably small... and ended with my good old suitcase, comfortably filled with a little extra room for goodies to be brought home. I can't help it! I need more than a pair of heels and a tube of lipstick to look chic! Or even respectable... sad. I have hair dryers, shampoo, curlers, hiking shoes, jewelry, jackets, swimsuits, capris, tanks tops, dresses, biscotti (thanks Kirst!)... you name it - it's in there. I live by the old adage: Better Safe than Sorry. I'd rather pack it than wish I had it later.

Sigh... I guess I just need to embrace myself for who I am. Why try to be something I'm not? I'm sure if I were going to deepest, darkest Africa I could manage to pack light but this is Rhode Island, and there will be a wedding to attend... give a girl a break!

Starting the Day off with a little Cuteness...

2009-09-01T10:32:00.000-07:00

I must be on a kid's clothing kick. After yesterday's crewcuts post I got an email from Etsy with some outrageously cute handmade children's clothing. Sooo... I took that horse and ran with it and came up with the cutest collection of baby and toddler clothes ever. Ok, I was somewhat inflenced by beautiful photography and fat cheeks... but the clothes are darling too. Enjoy!

This one is precocious... you can just see it in those eyes.... I love the little outfit though!
Ahhh! The Cheeks!!!! Oh my gosh I want to squeeze her! Look at that sweet little flower! I don't usually like headbands on babies but this one is darling. Unfortunately I can't seem to find it again so... no link. :(

I so hope to be one of those moms that is talented enough to make her own children's clothes... I need more sweing lessons but if I could I would dress my little girls like this. It's seems so sweet and innocent. I can't handle kid's clothes that make them look like little teenagers. Why??

Hahahahaahhaah!!

Can you handle the little ruffle coming out the bottom of this dress? Look at the boots!! And her curls! Ahh! So cute! Everything this girl makes is precious! Make sure to look at her whole line... love it.

Baby in a bowl. Nuff said.

Another baby in a bowl... wearing a "munchkin hat"... I'm officially dying here folks...

Love this ad...

2009-08-31T14:49:00.000-07:00

I just saw this ad for jcrew's crewcuts department. It is SO darling. I reminds me of everything sweet and innocent about childhood friendships...

The longer I look at it the happier it makes me... wait... um... now, suddenly, I am imagining my head braided to someone else's... feeling a little panicky... can't... get... loose...! Claustrophobie!!

Tidbits and Sunday Thoughts

2009-08-30T19:37:00.000-07:00

Well, it's a warm Sunday evening, dinner is almost ready, the family is all here (minus Heidi and Bradley of course), and I am feeling a post coming on... :)

Kirstie made the most WONDERFUL biscotti today. Look at these! Amazing. She is an artist in her own right but I think it is incredible that it comes out even in her food. I wish I had a better picture of her plum galette from Friday. It was equally beautiful.

I finished the CBEST last week and I've been thinking about jobs and what life could be for me. I stumbled upon this darling picture and I started to get excited about the possibilities (not that I'm opening a store with a bunch of cute, fashion forward ladies) :). I think what I look forward to most is community. I love meeting new people and creating new relationships and I can't wait to see who I will meet and what new friendships will bloom in this new phase of my life.

Dreamy House... Dream house?

2009-08-27T11:35:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite design blogs, desire to inspire, featured this amazing house today and I am falling in love... fast.

I may not have done all blue and white but the windows and walls and light are completely lovely... I hope my home will feel this peaceful someday.

Etsy Finds

2009-08-25T21:40:00.000-07:00

I so enjoy browsing Etsy and finding truly beautiful things. Especially things that I could never make myself... there is something so inspiring about it. I am continually amazed by the creativity and ability of my fellow crafters. Look at some of the gems I have stumbled upon recently...

Pillow bookends. You have GOT to be kidding me. I die.

Succuphant...!!!! Gah!

There is something really beautiful about this suzy necklace... it just speaks to me... it says, "Julie, where have you been all my life? I need you! And you need me!! Come on... buy me. Take me home. Love me. I'm one of a kind..." Darn those talking necklaces... getting into my brains and making me question my budget! Quiet foolish trinket! I don't need you! You are the devil!!

Uh... sorry about that... ahem...

I'm Home Again!

2009-08-25T15:17:00.000-07:00

Well, I'm back from the NYIGF! It was a really good show and left us feeling optimistic about sales for the rest of the year... not to mention NY is just a fun place to hang out... :)

The day after I got home Brad and I celebrated our very first anniversary. It's hard to believe it's been a whole year since we first met. I can so clearly remember coming home from NY last year and thinking about how I would meet him the next day and wondering what he would be like and whether or not it would be different in person... it was better. I so enjoyed our first date and I thought I knew him then... I knew about him then. I know him now... and I love him more every day. Sigh. Ok ok... no more gushiness... I promise... It has been an amazing year, though, and I am so blessed.

NY NY

2009-08-15T18:16:00.000-07:00

Sorry about the lack of posts (to those who actually notice... haha!). I have been in New York for the past few days for the NYIGF (New York International Gift Fair). We just finished a grueling set up tonight and I am SO happy to be sitting in Starbucks, sipping coffee, and catching up with everything online...

Baby Shower!

2009-08-11T08:36:00.000-07:00

We girls celebrated a very special occasion on Sunday... My cousin Missy is getting ready to welcome the very first baby among 13 cousins. So amazing. It's a precious little boy and they are going to name him Jack! I can't wait to see that sweet little face and squeeze his chubby little legs (which by the looks of it will be exceedingly long).

My Aunt Susie, my Mom, and I put together the little "to do". I tried to channel my favorite event planner, Amy Atlas, though in order to really do it justice I would need considerably more time and money... I did like how the fabric pennant turned out though and the white balloons are cute!

Oh well. I think it turned out nice and it was so fun to be able to do that for Missy.

I also got a little crafty and made her a couple of onesies! It was actually easier than I was expecting... I bought a pack of onesies (at Michaels of all places!) and picked out some fabrics.

Then I thoroughly starched and ironed the fabric. Next I drew and cut out the shapes I wanted to applique and pinned them to the onesie - make sure to only go through one layer of fabric! Ha! I must have made that mistake 3 times!

Finally, I took some coordinating embroidery floss and whipstiched around the shapes to hold them together. Done!

My New Toy!

2009-08-06T10:52:00.000-07:00

So I have finally given in... bent to the winds of progress... bowed at the foot of technology... purchased an iPhone. I've been wanting one for so long and when I went in the ATT store and learned that the 3G 8gb versions would soon be extinct I decided to go ahead and bite the bullet. ...I love it. LOVE IT. :)

2009-08-04T10:38:00.000-07:00

On Sunday Bradley and I hiked the Devil's Slide Trail in Idllywild up to Tahquitz Peak... it was much hotter than expected but oh so gorgeous.

We had a blast, laughing, scrambling over boulders, munching on "gorp" (good old raisins and peanuts), and taking lots of pictures... lovely.

Going for a Peter Pan shot...

View from the fire lookout... so pretty. It was getting a little late at this point so we had to head back.
Coming back down the sun was casting the most beautiful light... everything was glowing... loved it. :)

Great Weekend!

2009-08-04T10:25:00.000-07:00

My weekend started off with a bang on Friday with a friend's wedding. On Saturday I got some much needed organizing done in my room and went to see Thoroughly Modern Millie (musical version) with my sweet sister - such a fun birthday present! It was really different from the movie but still very good and very fun...

Website!

2009-07-30T14:06:00.000-07:00

Ok, Bradley and I have been working on a basic mock-up of what my website might look like... anybody have any suggestions? Comments? I welcome your input!
xoxo
Julie

Mehrzeller Concept Caravan

2009-07-30T09:04:00.000-07:00

Can you believe this crazy trailer?? (Or, I suppose I should say "caravan" as they do....) It's called the Mehrzeller and hails from Austria, naturally.I can just imagine the looks I'd get cruising down the highway with one of these! Bradley would LOVE it. Haha!
xoxo
Julie

Having a Maria Moment

2009-07-29T22:48:00.001-07:00

Do you ever feel like Maria in Sound of Music? I do. Right now I feel like this song... the one that the nuns sing after Maria has been gallivanting off in the hills...

"She climbs a tree and scrapes her knee
Her dress has got a tear
She waltzes on her way to Mass
And whistles on the stair
And underneath her wimple
She has curlers in her hair
I even heard her singing in the abbey

She's always late for chapel
But her penitence is real
She's always late for everything
Except for every meal
I hate to have to say it
But I very firmly feel
Maria's not an asset to the abbey

I'd like to say a word in her behalf
Maria makes me laugh

How do you solve a problem like Maria?
How do you catch a cloud and pin it down?
How do you find a word that means Maria?
A flibbertijibbet! A will-o'-the wisp! A clown!

Many a thing you know you'd like to tell her
Many a thing she ought to understand
But how do you make her stay
And listen to all you say
How do you keep a wave upon the sand

Oh, how do you solve a problem like Maria?
How do you hold a moonbeam in your hand?

When I'm with her I'm confused
Out of focus and bemused
And I never know exactly where I am
Unpredictable as weather
She's as flighty as a feather
She's a darling! She's a demon! She's a lamb!

She'd outpester any pest
Drive a hornet from its nest
She could throw a whirling dervish out of whirl
She is gentle! She is wild!
She's a riddle! She's a child!
She's a headache! She's an angel!
She's a girl!

How do you solve a problem like Maria?
How do you catch a cloud and pin it down?
How do you find a word that means Maria?
A flibbertijibbet! A will-o'-the wisp! A clown!

Many a thing you know you'd like to tell her
Many a thing she ought to understand
But how do you make her stay
And listen to all you say
How do you keep a wave upon the sand

Oh, how do you solve a problem like Maria?
How do you hold a moonbeam in your hand?"

My Succulent...

2009-07-29T22:29:00.000-07:00

Bradley sent me a succulent today while he was at work (or least a picture of one that he saw)... it's lovely. He gave me real one a few weeks go when one of mine died. Its name is Nelson. He likes to sit on the Adirondack chair in the backyard.
xoxo
Julie

My First Post

2009-07-29T13:50:00.000-07:00

Welcome to my little blog! I hope this page will be filled with beautiful images and inspirational ideas... It will also document my upcoming move and my progress with spud muffins! Thank you for visiting and come back often!

xoxo

Julie