 | ||
| Etsy |
Monday, October 29, 2012
Marry Me Monday: Address Stamp
I love these address stamps for the back of wedding invitations. Also, you can use them after you are married! I found a lot on Etsy that are great prices. Here is one of my favorites:
Friday, October 26, 2012
A Yummy Food for the Weekend!
Happy Friday Y'all! I am posting this yummy appetizer idea for any weekend festivities. Actually, I saw it on one of my former student's facebook page and I decided to blog about it so I would have the recipe saved for when I want to try it (completely selfish reason).
I have been on the hunt for some new good recipes because I have recently started the gluten free diet. I am attempting this new way of eating to see if I can clear up some stomach issues. The issues are improving and the wonderful side affect is I have lost 6 1/2 pounds when I wasn't even trying! So far the diet has not been hard for me because I just need to eliminate wheat, rye and barley. Taking out these items from my diet leaves me with a healthy regime of fruits, veggies and lean meats. Hardly anything controversial! However, many recipes, especially party type recipes, call for some type of bread. Our society seems to revolve around flour! Thankfully, I am getting creative and finding some new ideas out there. While this recipe is hardly healthy, it is gluten free and one that I will attempt soon. Enjoy!
Stuffed Sausage Mushrooms (thank you Claire for posting this recipe on Facebook!)
1 9x11 glass casserole dish
2 boxes whole white mushrooms (medium or large)
1 8 oz. bag shredded mozzerella cheese
1 large tomato (diced)
1 lb. pork sausage (mild or
I have been on the hunt for some new good recipes because I have recently started the gluten free diet. I am attempting this new way of eating to see if I can clear up some stomach issues. The issues are improving and the wonderful side affect is I have lost 6 1/2 pounds when I wasn't even trying! So far the diet has not been hard for me because I just need to eliminate wheat, rye and barley. Taking out these items from my diet leaves me with a healthy regime of fruits, veggies and lean meats. Hardly anything controversial! However, many recipes, especially party type recipes, call for some type of bread. Our society seems to revolve around flour! Thankfully, I am getting creative and finding some new ideas out there. While this recipe is hardly healthy, it is gluten free and one that I will attempt soon. Enjoy!
Stuffed Sausage Mushrooms (thank you Claire for posting this recipe on Facebook!)
1 9x11 glass casserole dish
2 boxes whole white mushrooms (medium or large)
1 8 oz. bag shredded mozzerella cheese
1 large tomato (diced)
1 lb. pork sausage (mild or
hot)
Preheat oven to 350. Cook sausage untill completely brown & drain. Wash mushrooms off. Remove stems. Place mushroom caps upside down in casserole dish. Stuff caps with sausage & sprinkle remain sausage over mushrooms. Sprinkle diced tomatoes over that, then sprinkle all the cheese all over that. Then bake for about 10 min. until cheese is melted Serves about 4-6 people.
Preheat oven to 350. Cook sausage untill completely brown & drain. Wash mushrooms off. Remove stems. Place mushroom caps upside down in casserole dish. Stuff caps with sausage & sprinkle remain sausage over mushrooms. Sprinkle diced tomatoes over that, then sprinkle all the cheese all over that. Then bake for about 10 min. until cheese is melted Serves about 4-6 people.
Monday, October 22, 2012
Marry Me Monday: Back Next Week
The week has been busy with work and wedding planning but next week I will be back with details of bridesmaids dress shopping!
Monday, October 15, 2012
Marry Me Monday: Productive Weekend
Ed and I have been going nonstop lately between work, fun activities, and family gatherings. So we decided to isolate ourselves this weekend and just be. However, we rarely just find ourselves doing nothing...okay we have never found ourselves doing nothing. This weekend was no exception. But it was on our own terms in our own time without a plan or an obligation.
Friday night we ate at one of our favorite restaurants, Rice and Spice, then headed back to the house to spend the cool autumn evening on the patio sipping wine. Saturday we headed to Tupelo to check off an item on the wedding to do list - the tux! Tux shopping was quite a different experience than my wedding dress shopping. The entire process, including the fitting, was done within about 30 minutes. A couple of times during the barrage of questions about style and color, I blanked out because the questions were coming so fast that I could not think. Ed loved the shopping experience because of the swiftness while I was left feeling a little confused. I guess they knew their intended audience was the male population who typically shops in a vastly different manner than the females.
While the process sped along, I took a moment to soak it all in while Ed tried on a tux. This was one of those special moments about being engaged that I wanted to capture. We were getting his tux! Each task completed takes us one step closer to the big day and each task is so special.
After the tuxes were selected for Ed and the groomsmen, I was in "marital bliss" as Ed called it. I didn't want to stop so we headed to look for our wedding rings. We just wanted to get ideas of styles but I am pretty sure that we have found them. The experience of seeing Ed wearing a ring was not really surreal like I thought it would feel. Instead, his ring seem to be right where it belonged and that thought makes me smile.
Planning a wedding is a huge task but I think we are making the most of it and enjoying the process. Now as we get closer, it seems like each week has something wedding related that needs to be accomplished. We were suppose to take engagement pictures this weekend but they were postponed because of the threat of rain. So next up on the list: bridesmaids dress shopping (next week!), order invitations, book the honeymoon and then try for those engagement pictures again. Each task taking us one step closer!
Friday night we ate at one of our favorite restaurants, Rice and Spice, then headed back to the house to spend the cool autumn evening on the patio sipping wine. Saturday we headed to Tupelo to check off an item on the wedding to do list - the tux! Tux shopping was quite a different experience than my wedding dress shopping. The entire process, including the fitting, was done within about 30 minutes. A couple of times during the barrage of questions about style and color, I blanked out because the questions were coming so fast that I could not think. Ed loved the shopping experience because of the swiftness while I was left feeling a little confused. I guess they knew their intended audience was the male population who typically shops in a vastly different manner than the females.
While the process sped along, I took a moment to soak it all in while Ed tried on a tux. This was one of those special moments about being engaged that I wanted to capture. We were getting his tux! Each task completed takes us one step closer to the big day and each task is so special.
After the tuxes were selected for Ed and the groomsmen, I was in "marital bliss" as Ed called it. I didn't want to stop so we headed to look for our wedding rings. We just wanted to get ideas of styles but I am pretty sure that we have found them. The experience of seeing Ed wearing a ring was not really surreal like I thought it would feel. Instead, his ring seem to be right where it belonged and that thought makes me smile.
Planning a wedding is a huge task but I think we are making the most of it and enjoying the process. Now as we get closer, it seems like each week has something wedding related that needs to be accomplished. We were suppose to take engagement pictures this weekend but they were postponed because of the threat of rain. So next up on the list: bridesmaids dress shopping (next week!), order invitations, book the honeymoon and then try for those engagement pictures again. Each task taking us one step closer!
Friday, October 12, 2012
A Monday Night in Oxford
When I moved to what I thought would be a so called sleepy town five years ago, I imagined plenty of down time that I would fill with writing and more contemplative activities. I envisioned a writer's retreat of sorts, but I don't know how I ever expected an extravert like myself to stay retreated too long. My idea of Oxford was completely false as the constant busy and exciting life that I get to live here is far from the small town idea I had in mind. I may be in a sleepy town but it is only when I, myself, am sleepy from doing so much.
On any given night in my Southern town, there is an arts event, show, concert, party, sporting event, or a reading. Even a simple visit to The Square can turn into a special event with friends and family. I have to often make a night to just be at home because there is always an opportunity to do something. For example this week, there was a concert, Caroline Kennedy visited Square Books, and the town is busy preparing for Homecoming. While I did not get the chance to meet Caroline Kennedy, I did see a talented band and got to spend Thursday evening with the best group of women at our monthly Bunco game. Life is definitely not dull in this little college town.
Ed loves music and is rarely disappointed with the caliber of musicians that visit Oxford. Silversun Pickups, one of his favorite groups, performed in The Lyric Monday night. The space and crowd was a small, intimate one with a happy energy. We arrived during the opening act and were still able to stand about three rows back from the stage.
The group proved their talent by sounding as good, if not better, as their recorded cds. They performed a mix of the new and old favorites. I am relatively unfamiliar with the band so while I could not recall a lot of their songs easily, I liked what I heard. There unique sound was a good combination of enchanting and mystical with an edge. But since I had no background knowledge of the band other than what Ed tried to expose me to prior to the concert, my favorite parts were probably different than the true fans.
Performance wise, I loved how the lead singer was a captivating performer. Many lead singers expect just their voice to entertain. Not him. Everything about his performance seem to really live the music so much that even an unfamilar audience member like myself got it. The gestures were suddel but powerful. A look with his eyes, a flick of his hand, or a quick turn of his head were all authentic movements that said to me he was a natural, talented performer. I was inspired by the charisma and the passion of the entire band. An experience like that for me is not just about entertaining but I take it with me as a reminder to continue incorporate that type of passion in my daily life.
My most favorite part of the performance reflects my love for my Southern town. The band is from California and while talking to the crowd, they told us that they had never been to Oxford. The lead singer went on to say, "and aren't you lucky.....to live in this amazing town!?!" Of course that played to the pride many Oxonians have but he added more. He, along with the rest of the band, had dinner at a favorite restaurant in town, AJAX. He also knew about landmarks in the town and traditions. Obviously, the charm of Oxford had taken in this guy and I loved that. Maybe it is my Southern hospitality and pride, but I love it when others have a great time in the South and see even a small glimpse of why our South is so special.
On any given night in my Southern town, there is an arts event, show, concert, party, sporting event, or a reading. Even a simple visit to The Square can turn into a special event with friends and family. I have to often make a night to just be at home because there is always an opportunity to do something. For example this week, there was a concert, Caroline Kennedy visited Square Books, and the town is busy preparing for Homecoming. While I did not get the chance to meet Caroline Kennedy, I did see a talented band and got to spend Thursday evening with the best group of women at our monthly Bunco game. Life is definitely not dull in this little college town.
Ed loves music and is rarely disappointed with the caliber of musicians that visit Oxford. Silversun Pickups, one of his favorite groups, performed in The Lyric Monday night. The space and crowd was a small, intimate one with a happy energy. We arrived during the opening act and were still able to stand about three rows back from the stage.
The group proved their talent by sounding as good, if not better, as their recorded cds. They performed a mix of the new and old favorites. I am relatively unfamiliar with the band so while I could not recall a lot of their songs easily, I liked what I heard. There unique sound was a good combination of enchanting and mystical with an edge. But since I had no background knowledge of the band other than what Ed tried to expose me to prior to the concert, my favorite parts were probably different than the true fans.
Performance wise, I loved how the lead singer was a captivating performer. Many lead singers expect just their voice to entertain. Not him. Everything about his performance seem to really live the music so much that even an unfamilar audience member like myself got it. The gestures were suddel but powerful. A look with his eyes, a flick of his hand, or a quick turn of his head were all authentic movements that said to me he was a natural, talented performer. I was inspired by the charisma and the passion of the entire band. An experience like that for me is not just about entertaining but I take it with me as a reminder to continue incorporate that type of passion in my daily life.
My most favorite part of the performance reflects my love for my Southern town. The band is from California and while talking to the crowd, they told us that they had never been to Oxford. The lead singer went on to say, "and aren't you lucky.....to live in this amazing town!?!" Of course that played to the pride many Oxonians have but he added more. He, along with the rest of the band, had dinner at a favorite restaurant in town, AJAX. He also knew about landmarks in the town and traditions. Obviously, the charm of Oxford had taken in this guy and I loved that. Maybe it is my Southern hospitality and pride, but I love it when others have a great time in the South and see even a small glimpse of why our South is so special.
 |
| The picture of the audience that Silversun Pickups posted on their Facebook page. |
 |
| Us at the concert |
Monday, October 8, 2012
Marry Me Monday: 10 FUN Things About Being Engaged
10. Getting to shamelessly search Pinterest for all things wedding.
9. Shopping for dresses to wear to special parties and events celebrating the engagement.
8. Participating in bridal events at stores.
7. Staring endlessly at the sparkle on my left hand and feeling the need for more manicures.
6. Having a thousand excuses to gather with your closest friends and family. Making memories at every one of these occasions.
5. Wedding dress shopping. Bridesmaids dress shopping. Mother of the Bride dress shopping. Mother of the Groom dress shopping.... did I mention shopping?
4. Months of constant celebration....what can I say? I love an excuse to celebrate!
3. Receiving e-mails from The Knot and Wedding Channel full of fun ideas.
2. Engagement pictures...we take them this upcoming weekend!
1. Most importantly, knowing at the conclusion of this engagement period, I am marrying the man my heart knew was suppose to be my husband 12 1/2 years ago. We are growing even closer during this time because we will be more than just a couple, we will be family.
Monday, October 1, 2012
Marry Me Monday: Enjoying Engagement
Only about 6 more months to go until the big day! When we first got engaged, the count was a few days over 300 and now we are around 187. I enjoy seeing the number go down because of course I am excited but at the same time, I want to relish this part of my life. The engaged life.
I have always been one to not wish away a time period. In high school, my friends could not wait until graduation. I did the opposite and loved every minute of high school. In college, those same friends could not wait to get out to the real world and start working. I loved college so much I stayed until I got a PhD! I have never felt the need to rush but instead enjoy each sweet moment of life. After all, these phases make up our lives. However, in the midst of being excited about our upcoming marriage, I am anxious for the wedding day to be here! I love seeing the days go down but I don't want this engagement to just be a countdown until the big day.
Obviously, a lot of people want to rush through the engagement as there are a lot of articles out there on the topic. Some tips I found for enjoying this time and staying focused on what matters:
1. Remember engagement is more than a countdown but a time to strengthen the relationship. I love that idea. I love the times I feel we are growing as a couple. For example, when we are working through our ceremony readings and discussing our dreams and goals for the relationship. I am especially looking forward to the engagement retreat where we will focus on these topics exclusively for a weekend. Yeah, he must love me to agree to spend an entire weekend talking about feelings!
2. Ask yourself each month, "What do I want my engagement to be about this month?" Some of the focus will naturally be on wedding planning but the other focus should be on growing as a couple. This idea gives each month of the engagement a special place and helps me focus on the present moment that I need to enjoy.
3. Continue to strengthen the relationships with your future in laws.
4. Use the time to continue to nurture your relationships with your family and friends.
5. Take good care of yourself. You want to be healthy and feeling great for the next phase of your life!
6. Don't forget to step away from the to-do list and have a "wedding free" night. I love this piece of advice because I have known too many couples where the wedding planning became all consuming. I wondered what they even talked about after the wedding was over. Remember to be the couple you were that brought you to being engaged.
7. Have fun. Enjoy all the festivities and excitement that the engagement period brings. Anticipation and the building excitement can be fun just in itself.
8. Dream about the really BIG day(s). The day after the wedding when the marriage begins which is far more precious than one single day.
Of course, part of the enjoyment will still be seeing the day get closer but I will make more of an effort to enjoy the engaged days that are far more than just a countdown.
I have always been one to not wish away a time period. In high school, my friends could not wait until graduation. I did the opposite and loved every minute of high school. In college, those same friends could not wait to get out to the real world and start working. I loved college so much I stayed until I got a PhD! I have never felt the need to rush but instead enjoy each sweet moment of life. After all, these phases make up our lives. However, in the midst of being excited about our upcoming marriage, I am anxious for the wedding day to be here! I love seeing the days go down but I don't want this engagement to just be a countdown until the big day.
Obviously, a lot of people want to rush through the engagement as there are a lot of articles out there on the topic. Some tips I found for enjoying this time and staying focused on what matters:
1. Remember engagement is more than a countdown but a time to strengthen the relationship. I love that idea. I love the times I feel we are growing as a couple. For example, when we are working through our ceremony readings and discussing our dreams and goals for the relationship. I am especially looking forward to the engagement retreat where we will focus on these topics exclusively for a weekend. Yeah, he must love me to agree to spend an entire weekend talking about feelings!
2. Ask yourself each month, "What do I want my engagement to be about this month?" Some of the focus will naturally be on wedding planning but the other focus should be on growing as a couple. This idea gives each month of the engagement a special place and helps me focus on the present moment that I need to enjoy.
3. Continue to strengthen the relationships with your future in laws.
4. Use the time to continue to nurture your relationships with your family and friends.
5. Take good care of yourself. You want to be healthy and feeling great for the next phase of your life!
6. Don't forget to step away from the to-do list and have a "wedding free" night. I love this piece of advice because I have known too many couples where the wedding planning became all consuming. I wondered what they even talked about after the wedding was over. Remember to be the couple you were that brought you to being engaged.
7. Have fun. Enjoy all the festivities and excitement that the engagement period brings. Anticipation and the building excitement can be fun just in itself.
8. Dream about the really BIG day(s). The day after the wedding when the marriage begins which is far more precious than one single day.
Of course, part of the enjoyment will still be seeing the day get closer but I will make more of an effort to enjoy the engaged days that are far more than just a countdown.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)