Striving to live my life like my Mr. Mason

Mr. Mason: the baby years

2012-03-03T17:16:00.000-05:00

Mr. Mason -- 2006 or early 2007 -- After the trauma of bathtime

I love you more than. . .

2012-02-18T19:00:00.000-05:00

I love you more than chunky baby wrists.

Mr. Mason: the baby years

2012-02-09T20:15:00.000-05:00

Mr. Mason -- Summer 2006

I love you more than. . .

2012-01-29T06:50:00.004-05:00

I love you even more than I'd like a snowday today.

Merry Christmas from Mr. Mason!

2011-12-25T07:00:00.001-05:00

Mr. Mason hopes you'll settle for this pre-scheduled holiday greeting. He's busy celebrating today but he assures you he looks pretty much the same today as he did back in 2009 when this picture was taken.

Mr. Mason: the baby years

2011-12-19T19:00:00.001-05:00

Mr. Mason -- sometime 2006 or 2007 -- He'd like you to note the misery we put him through.

I love you more than. . .

2011-12-02T20:03:00.001-05:00

I love you more than Christmas music.

I love you more than. . .

2011-11-18T23:15:00.000-05:00

I love you more than the feeling after working out.

I love you more than. . .

2011-10-22T13:01:00.000-04:00

Math Man, I love you more than a Sunday afternoon siesta.

Mr. Mason: the baby years

2011-10-01T06:00:00.000-04:00

Mr. Mason -- Summer 2006

Home Inspiration: Bookshelves, again.

2011-09-17T06:31:00.000-04:00

Photo found here at Apartment Therapy

I love you more than. . .

2011-09-15T14:39:00.000-04:00

. . . even Charleston, South Carolina!

I love you more than . . .

2011-08-30T20:16:00.000-04:00

. . . Mr. Mason loves watermelon. (and he looooooves watermelon)

Mr. Mason at Grandfather Mountain June 2009

Mr. Mason and Miss Daisy

2011-08-29T07:10:00.002-04:00

Mr. Mason and his good friend Daisy, after having got into a bit of mischief (or at least mud) outside, circa 2007.

Daisy is an older woman (being of the 2005 vintage and not of the 2006 vintage like Mr. Mason) and therefore Mr. Mason always blames her for leading him into mud. I didn't believe him though. I know Mr. Mason can find and make messes all by himself. Miss Daisy is a special lady, and (just like Mr. Mason) is huge supporter of Batten Disease research -- after all, she is the neice (well, isn't that what you'd call the dog of your sister?) of the fabulous famous Taylor.

Wedding Inspiration: Menu

2011-08-24T00:26:00.000-04:00

Chapel Hill, NC Crook's Corner Shrimp and Grits Photo André Baranowski via Saveur.com

"Yes, I'd like to place an order for grits."
"Go ahead Sir"
"G-Rits?"

Wedding Inspiration: Decorations

2011-08-22T11:09:00.002-04:00

What a cute idea is this?!

Photo by Sayher Heffernan via Polka Dot Bride

A Modern Love Story

2011-08-22T10:54:00.000-04:00

I read an amazing story in the New York Times. I'm not trying to get on a stump and I'm not trying to start a political dialogue. Nor do I want my blog to house those sorts of discussions. Instead, what struck me most about this story was that it was about unconditional love. Acceptance.

Wouldn't the world be a better place if everyone had a life partner who they loved unconditionally and who loved them unconditionally in return?

Home Inspiration: Bedrooms

2011-08-20T12:51:00.000-04:00

All photos from Pottery Barn Design Studio

I love you more than. . .

2011-08-18T13:05:00.000-04:00

Math Man, I love you more than you love banana bread.

Wedding Inspiration: Ceremony

2011-08-10T07:21:00.000-04:00

Love this. Simple and naturally beautiful.

Elizabeth Anne Designs

Hello again, a real post.

2011-08-10T07:00:00.019-04:00

Well, I've already fallen off the blogging bandwagon and I barely even started.

(Did all my wedding posts fool you? I wasn't really here. I mean, I was, but not really. Before I discovered pinterest and started pinning my wedding inspiration, I had put several here on the ol' blog. As a way to record them. For me. And to share. So enjoy as they run out. They're more general wedding inspiration while the pin board is inspiration specific to the direction my actual wedding is heading. I find both incredible fun procrastination tools.)

In the meantime (since blogging for real last), I've done some wedding planning, some traveling (to Boston and the beach), and some so-far-still-fruitless job hunting. And wow--somehow it is magically already August!

The highlight of my days is dreaming of both moving fulltime to Charlotte and thinking about the wedding. After so much time apart, I'm thrilled to be back in the same town as Math Man. FULLTIME. No more Monday morning 4 a.m. alarm clocks forcing me out of bed to drive across the state and make it to work on time here in Raleigh. No more random Tuesday nights wishing that I had someone to walk Mr. Mason with or to eat dinner with. No more lonely knowing that my best friend is across the state and I have to make it until Friday night to see him.

We have a date. In May. We have a place. (Folly Beach SC Beach House) AND I SERIOUSLY CANNOT WAIT! Sometimes I wonder if its normal at almost 29 years old to be so excited about one thing that I cannot think about anything else?

Probably not. Probably its just me.

Wedding Inspiration: Bridesmaid Dresses

2011-08-01T20:53:00.000-04:00

Photo by Jonathan Canlas Photography via Style Me Pretty

Photo by Zofia Photography via Style Me Pretty

Navy! Yellow! Belts! Cardigans! Love it.

Home Inspiration: Bedroom

2011-07-26T17:01:00.000-04:00

Virginia Bed by Ballard Design

Wedding Inspiration: The Dress

2011-07-25T19:46:00.000-04:00

Photographed by Melissa Robotti Photography via Style Me Pretty

Wedding Inspiration: Bridesmaid Dresses

2011-07-22T12:38:00.000-04:00

Photographs of bridesmaids in outfits by J.Crew by Green Apple Photography via Style Me Pretty

Love this idea... Who said bridesmaids have to wear dresses? Skirts and cardigans are pretty cute! And definitely rewearable.

Home Inspiration: Bookshelves

2011-07-19T17:19:00.000-04:00

Nicole & Brandon's Space

Photo found at Hooked on Houses

Wedding Inspiration: Invitations

2011-07-16T22:13:00.000-04:00

Invitation a Collaboration by Love Jenna and Swiss Cottage Designs

Aren't these gorgeous? Watercolor. Yummy.

Home Inspiration: Yes, more horses

2011-07-14T15:07:00.000-04:00

bedroom photo by Eric Roth found via Freckles Chick

I wonder if the Math Man would be opposed to large oversized horse pictures...

Wedding Inspiration: The Dress

2011-07-12T19:15:00.000-04:00

Photo by Kate Harrison Photography via Style Me Pretty

I'm not normally one for strapless and I can't quite tell if this dress is strapless (and those straps are just for hanging) or if this has skinny straps, but either way, I'm loving the simple tiers of this dress.

Wedding Inspiration: The Dress

2011-07-09T19:18:00.000-04:00

I find myself drawn to lace. I like the texture. I also love how in every other way this dress is so simple. Plus scoop back and not strapless!

Allover beaded lace trumpet gown by David's Bridal

I love you more than. . .

2011-07-08T18:19:00.000-04:00

I love you more than pedicures.

Wedding Inspiration: Cover those shoulders!

2011-07-04T07:31:00.000-04:00

Marisa J95 Couture Bridal Jacket Top

Love the idea of a lacy top over a more bare dress (like a strapless dress). So classy.

Wedding Inspiration: The Dress

2011-07-01T20:30:00.000-04:00

Lily Strapless Floral Appliqué Party Dress

So maybe I'm crazy, but I wouldn't necessarily say no to a short dress. Especially with a more casual beach wedding. This one is so simple and pretty--Again, I love the texture. I'm not really sold on strapless though.

Home Inspiration: Dining Room

2011-06-30T18:32:00.000-04:00

Well, really, in our case, dining ~~room~~ ~~nook~~ corner-of-the-living-room.

Photo from Pottery Barn Room Ideas

Wedding Inspiration: The Dress

2011-06-28T20:38:00.000-04:00

Enzoani “Diana” dress purchased at Mockingbird Bridal photographed by Jenna Cole Photography via Style Me Pretty

Wedding Inspiration: Colorful Bridesmaids

2011-06-25T23:37:00.001-04:00

Photo by Stephanie Hogue Photography found at Style Me Pretty

YAY! For cowboy boots!
YAY! For bright color!

Wedding Inspiration: The Dress

2011-06-22T12:26:00.000-04:00

Love this one. Again, simple silohouette. Interesting texture. Scoop back. Not sleeveless. Gorgeous.

Lula Kate

Wedding Inspiration: Bouquet

2011-06-20T18:43:00.000-04:00

Photographed by Jamie Delaine via Style Me Pretty

Love how natural these flowers look--almost like they're wildflowers

Home Inspiration: Framed Wall of Art

2011-06-19T06:44:00.000-04:00

Photo found here at Apartment Therapy

Wedding Inspiration: Cake

2011-06-17T20:28:00.000-04:00

Picture courtesy of Mary Dougherty Photography via Wedding Wire

Albemarle Virginia is home. Right in the middle of apple and wine country. So how perfect and gorgeous is this cake? I love its symplicity and how it ties right in to home. I also love that I think it looks so elegant and yet could have been made by a friend--not a fancy bakery. I also love that it looks like it's displayed on a big wooden cutting board or chopping block. I think I'd have it be apple spice cake with white cream cheese frosting and, while they're cute (are they scrabble letters? awesomely nerdy!) I'd probably leave the letters off the top.

Picture courtesy of Mary Dougherty Photography via Wedding Wire

Wedding Inspiration: The Dress

2011-06-16T20:56:00.000-04:00

Photograph by Lisa Lefkowitz Photography via Style Me Pretty

More and more I'm finding myself drawn to lace and simple silhouettes. Isn't this one lovely?

Wedding Inspiration: So cute, it'll make you smile.

2011-06-15T09:20:00.001-04:00

Photo by Leigh Miller Photography

Wedding Inspiration: Picnic

2011-06-13T19:14:00.000-04:00

via

This idea is cute, no?

Wedding Inspiration: The Dress

2011-06-12T12:50:00.001-04:00

Photo by Hillary Maybery via Style Me Pretty

Again... gorgeous fabric and don't you love her bold jewelry?

Wedding Inspiration: Centerpieces

2011-06-08T07:06:00.000-04:00

photo via Roberts & Co Events Blog

Babywhite. Love! (perhaps the vases, not as much the look I would be going for.)

I love you more than. . .

2011-06-05T12:42:00.001-04:00

Math Man, I love you more than having smooth suntanned legs. (which right now I don't have. But which I'd like.)

Perhaps after this weekend (we're going to Charleston to go VENUE HUNTING!!!!!!!! Can you tell I'm excited?) I'll have a small step towards the suntan. (but not really, I'm an SPF35 girl and Math Man is an SPFAsHighANumberHeCanFind guy and half the time I end up using his sunscreen. We're all about healthy non-cancerous skin around these parts.)

Wedding Inspiration: Sparklers & Smores

2011-06-04T19:09:00.000-04:00

Photo by Orchard Cove Photography via Style Me Pretty

Math Man and I went to a wedding last October with smores and I've been pretty much obsessed with the idea ever since.

Photo by Kelli Boyd with Donna von Bruening
via Style Me Pretty

And who doesn't love sparklers? I do.

Wedding Inspiration: Cardigans

2011-06-03T18:58:00.000-04:00

Photography by Betwixt Studio via Style Me Pretty

How great is a cute cardigan, really?!

Wedding Inspiration: The Dress

2011-06-02T18:12:00.000-04:00

Photograph via Style Me Pretty

Lace!

Wedding Inspiration: Centerpieces

2011-05-30T16:54:00.000-04:00

Photo Forever Photography by Kylene via Wedding Wire

Love the navy, green, yellow, and white. Love the use of lemons and limes. Love how sunshiney and crisp this looks.

Wedding Inspiration: The Dress

2011-05-29T19:07:00.000-04:00

Photo by She-N-He Photography via Style Me Pretty

Wedding Inspiration: Boots

2011-05-28T17:37:00.000-04:00

Photo by Heidi with Our Labor of Love via Style Me Pretty

I love you more than. . .

2011-05-28T07:15:00.001-04:00

I love you more than that Aha! feeling when I find the perfect case on Westlaw.

Home Inspiration: Offices

2011-05-26T20:55:00.000-04:00

All photos from Pottery Barn Design Studio

I'm still here

2011-05-26T07:11:00.000-04:00

It's been almost a month (since May 2nd) since I posted a "real" post. You know one where I actually said something instead of just slapping a photo up of something I found pretty. (Again, with photos I've found prior to discovering Pinterest).

Sorry about that. It wasn't really on purpose. At first, I wanted to take the time to adequately write about our 5K. Yes, we ran it. The whole thing without stopping. In fact, I crossed the finish line at 29 minutes 56 seconds. (I know, slow for so many, but for me I'll take a big WOOT WOOT for finishing under 30!) Not only that, much more importantly about $8,000 was raised to fight Batten Disease!

And then my mom visited. We went wedding dress shopping. I spent some time in Charlotte getting things done there (step one towards a calming bedroom done, step two through ten still to go). I've seen some friends, had good phone chats with others, am holding my breath for the the health of another and for her little baby Noah in the NICU right now, spent some quality time with my sewing machine and am falling in love with it, interviewed for an awesome job (and am now in the limbo waiting period), have been busy at work, and, am still madly in love with my Math Man who I get to call my FIANCE now. And well, you know how it goes, somehow each one of these things was blog worthy but I didn't get around to stopping and writing it all down.

I'll try to be better about it. Because, I want a record of these things that make me smile. You know, more like this awesome lady. But, if I'm not? Well, I'll keep posting a few smile-worthy pictures. And I'll keep smiling in real life. And then at some point I'll be back here on this space again saying that I have been so busy but its all good really.

Wedding Inspiration

2011-05-25T13:15:00.001-04:00

Perhaps, this would have been better titled "Life Inspiration."

I know I told you all (in my ridiculously long winded story about our engagement here) about the sweet couple who we talked with right before Math Man asked me to marry him. Well, of course, I didn't get their names. So this photo isn't them. But it is really sweet and it does perfectly remind me of my number one life goal.

To live together happily loving Math Man everyday of the rest of our lives. To remember to feed his soul as he feeds mine. To fall more and more in love with him every day.

This photo is therefore an aspirational reminder.

Photo by Jesse Holland Photography found at Style Me Pretty

Wedding Inspiration: The Dress

2011-05-24T12:21:00.000-04:00

Love that this dress is a halter top. Love the lace and the sash. Not as sure about how full the skirt appears or about the big bow in back.

Oleg Cassini All Over Lace A-Line Gown at David's Bridal

Wedding Inspiration: Cake

2011-05-21T22:34:00.000-04:00

Photo by Souder Photography via Style Me Pretty

Love the simplicity and natural elements of this cake. Would be also gorgeous with a spice cake and a pile of baked apples instead of blueberries, wouldn't it? Or perhaps still a white cake but with raspberries.

Hmmm... Might not be able to wait for a wedding to make a cake like this. I'm thinking Fourth of July with strawberries and blueberries.

Wedding Inspiration: a short beachy wedding dress

2011-05-19T19:44:00.000-04:00

The Eyelet Wilma Dress by Lilly Pullitzer

Are short dresses just way too casual for a wedding? I love this one. Love the price tag too (expensive for a sundress, but a steal for a wedding dress). Also, so beachy and fun and even dyable to re-wear again in the future.

(Although, if I go this route, there's some above/side knee leg toning to do.)

Wedding Inspiration: Invitations

2011-05-18T18:31:00.000-04:00

Photo from Wedding Aces

Wedding Inspiration: Save the Date

2011-05-17T20:55:00.000-04:00

Photo by Callaway Gable Photography via Style Me Pretty

Does this look like a cute save-the-date? I bet we could do this ourselves...

On a related note, what do you guys think the rule is on save-the-dates? I mean, for a small wedding, are word of mouth and phone calls enough to hold the date open?

Wedding Inspiration: The Dress

2011-05-16T07:15:00.000-04:00

I can't even see all of this one. But oh! The eyelet! I love the texture. So southern and casual yet elegant.

Photo by Sophie of Mike Larson Inc. via Grey Likes Weddings

And her shoes--I love yellow and I love peeptoes!

Wedding Inspiration: Invitations

2011-05-15T23:01:00.000-04:00

Just love these traditional yet very artistic invitations from Breathless Paper Co..

This would be perfect for a Charleston wedding.

Can't you picture this with apples instead of peaches? Would be perfect for a Virginia wedding.

Wedding Inspiration: A Bride and her Bichon

2011-05-14T21:01:00.002-04:00

Photo by Juliet Elizabeth via Style Me Pretty

When I picture my wedding day, of course I picture Mr. Mason there. (After all, he was there for the engagement.)

I love you more than. . .

2011-05-14T18:07:00.002-04:00

I love you more than law school graduation.*

*which was one year ago today.

Wedding Inspiration: Bridesmaid Dresses

2011-05-13T20:33:00.000-04:00

Adelson Shift and Betsy Dress by Lilly Pullitzer

Love these. Lovy the navy. I'd love to be the bridesmaid of a bride who chose these. I would certainly wear them again! Also, I love that an easy-going bride could let bridesmaids choose whether they prefer the shift Adelson dress or the strapless Betsy dress.

Perhaps? a bit too preppy for the more casual beach or Virginia affair of my dreams. But perhaps not....?

Home Inspiration: Office

2011-05-11T17:22:00.000-04:00

Desk by Ballard Design

Wouldn't this very minimal desk be great in the small space of a our condo?

Mr. Mason: the teen years

2011-05-10T06:00:00.003-04:00

Bloggy friends, it was a big weekend and I've got lots to share. Some happy and some sad. I'm praying so hard for dear friends of ours and their twins--one who has gone to heaven yesterday and another who needs a miracle.

No more time to write right now. I'll leave you with a happy picture to lift spirits.

Mr. Mason -- Late Summer 2006

Wedding Inspiration: Seersucker

2011-05-06T22:51:00.000-04:00

With the right setting (hmmm... the beach...) I am just loving the seersucker bridesmaid look. More casual. Cool. Southern. And I know every bride says this about whatever dress she picks out for her bridesmaids, but I really do think this would be re-wearable. (Also, how great would white seersucker be for the bride for a rehearsal dinner?)

Lula Kate Dresses (photo from their website's "real weddings" tab)

Bowtie by Moss Ties and Tie by Baby by Stevie

Thread dresses via Ruffled

BCBG (yellow) and Old Navy (blue) seersucker dresses both circa 2007

photo by Our Labor of Love via Elizabeth Anne Designs

photo by Orchard Cove Photography

Vineyard Vines seersucker dress circa 2010

Home Inspiration: Foyer

2011-05-05T18:34:00.000-04:00

Pottery Barn Bailey Console Table

Wedding Inspiration: Invitations

2011-05-04T22:43:00.000-04:00

Invitation by Hello!Lucky

I love the crispness and simplicity of this invitation. Although, I think it would take me a long time to come up with one symbol to symbolize us and our wedding. A shrimp? Perhaps a bit too me and not us. A bichon? Might be too cutesy. A globe? Yes, but does that imply a destination wedding? A sundress? Definitely says fun casual beach, but it might be way too feminine. A sailboat? Possible.

Wedding Inspiration: The Dress

2011-05-03T12:03:00.000-04:00

Photo by Heather Vallentyne of Vallentyne Photography of Anne Barge Wedding Gown from Bliss Bride Custom by Marilynn Hoffman via Style Me Pretty

In Preparation for Saturday's 5K

2011-05-02T22:45:00.006-04:00

Well, tonight for the first time ever I ran 5K without stopping (not even once). I just wanted to know I could do it before Saturday. It was not pretty. It was not fast. (It took every second of 31 minutes!) I definitely puffpuffpuffed. It was hard for me. But I did it. Without stopping. (And yes, can you tell? I'm just a wee bit proud of myself.)

I just wish that Taylor's war against Batten Disease was as easy as my little battle against running.

Weekend Update

2011-05-02T18:56:00.000-04:00

It was a busy weekend my bloggy friends. I had an interview, dear friends got married, and we went to a grill-out with Math Man's family to celebrate our engagement and one of his grandmother's birthdays and a second grill-out with friends. Oh plus, I attempted to house clean and organize the condo. And re-arranged our bedroom. And did a small mountain of laundry. Math Man and I oh-so-briefly discussed wedding plans. Went to the gym. Spent quite a bit of time with Mr. Mason. And I spent lots of time running errands--dropped off things at GoodWill, the consignment shop, the alterations shop, the dry cleaners, and the grocery store--TWICE, because you know, I'm a good planner like that. You know all those exciting tasks that I'm discovering go along with being a grown-up.

I also spent some time at TJ Maxx, Marshalls, and Homegoods. Remember this post where I was imagining that we could use our two little white bookshelves on either side of our bed as bedside tables? I moved them there and then measured them in hopes of finding baskets to put in them. Well, you can imagine my surprise when I discovered that these cute solid white shelves are not at all the same size---in fact, not one of the shelves are the same height. One book shelf is 10 inches deep, the other is 8.5 inches deep. One is one width, the other another width. I didn't let that deter me though. I took measurements and headed off to Homegoods where I spent quite a bit of time in the basket aisle with my "purse-ruler" (as I called the tapemeasure when Math Man called me to see what I was doing). No luck, but I haven't given up yet.

How about you? Any homeifying progress this weekend? (If not, don't feel bad, bloggy friends. Trust me when I tell you that you're probably starting out WAY ahead of where I am starting. Plus, perhaps you spent your weekend in a more fun way. Like laying out by the pool enjoying this awesome weather!)

Of course, homeifying our condo actually makes me quite happy---it means I'm that much closer to moving in full time with Math Man! And having celebratatory grill-outs makes me feel so very loved. I'm a lucky girl.

Wedding Inspiration: Invitations

2011-05-01T22:06:00.000-04:00

Big Day Invitation by Hello Lucky

I love what a fun vibe the wording of this invitation gives.

Took the Plunge

2011-04-30T12:36:00.000-04:00

I ordered a sewing machine today.
I read a lot of reviews.
Got completely overwhelmed.
Then took a leap and just picked one.
This one.
I can't wait to learn.
Do you think this is a doable first project?

You have been warned.

2011-04-29T20:42:00.010-04:00

Math Man was worth the wait.
But, (and this is probably not a surprise to you since you've been inundated for months with decorating eye candy inspiration) I also have folders full of pretty wedding images that I find inspiring as well.
And since I stored all these images away prior to being introduced to Pinterest, I'm going to inundate you over the next few months with beautiful wedding inspiration photos that make me go "Awww."
So, how's that for a warning? This blog is about to take a wedding-y turn.
Enjoy.

p.s. Are you not yet on pinterest? You should be.

The Rest-Of-Our-Magic Weekend

2011-04-28T07:54:00.000-04:00

Wanted to take a few minutes to record a few highlights from the rest of our weekend.

After the proposal, and my heart stopped pounding quite so loudly in my ears, and I'd wiped away the little tears that had somehow sprung up in my eyes, and I'd grinned like a fool for a few minutes and hugged Math Man twenty more times, we called our parents. Turns out, Math Man had tipped them off that tonight was the night and so they were waiting for our call.

We then headed into Charleston to have dinner at Bacco. We called Mikey (the owner and chef of Bacco and our dear friend) on the way in and let him know that Math Man's original plans to propose to me at Bacco were thwarted. He just got excited, and with the ring in his pocket, and the sunset over the marsh, he couldn't wait!

We arrived to glasses of celebratory proseco and then were treated to a tasting menu prepared just for us. Salad, rissotto, pasta, fish, clams, duck, and three desserts. And, of course, wine. Mikey also interrupted all the diners in order to make our announcement. Everyone cheered and toasted us and I have not stopped smiling since.

Saturday, Charleston treated us to a dose of summer. We spent the entire day on the beach with only a brief break for a lunch of shrimp. Poor Math Man's top of his feet were scorched--guess he missed them with the SPF 70. We spent the evening eating out in Charleston. Sunday, we played tourists again. We went to the Middleton Plantation all morning and then walked around downtown Charleston in the afternoon and had sandwiches out at the riverfront park. Even my 4.5 hour drive back Sunday evening (alone because Math Man had to go back to Charlotte while I drove to Raleigh) couldn't dampen my spirits. I spent the entire ride on the phone and soaked up getting to tell my friends again and again the story of how-it-happened. Sunday evening back at the apartment, I left Mr. Mason to sleep off his big weekend on the couch and made it outside for 2 miles of running without stopping. Amazing what endorphins and pure happiness can do for you.

I'm a lucky, lucky girl.

5K: 10 Days to Go

2011-04-27T21:53:00.002-04:00

Did I mention to you that the Math Man and I running a 5K together?

I'm sure I've at least mentioned to you how much I'm not a runner. How running makes my lungs gasp and puff puff puff and how it makes my legs tired and ache and just generally feel like they don't want to move any more. Oh, and sometimes I get tummy cramps.

But I have been keeping at it. I started with one mile. (With some walk breaks.) That was early February. Let me tell you--when I finished that one mile, I called Math Man immediately to let him know. And he (because he's awesome) told me how proud he was of me. And then I was able to do one mile without stopping. (Again, prompting an excited phone call.) And then at some point, on one of our weekends together, we ran together and I went even farther than before. Then last weekend, Math Man and I ran together and we went 2.6 miles--with only a brief perhaps 1 minute stretching break halfway through. And then Sunday night, powered by the incredible endorphins and adrenaline from my amazing weekend, I ran 2 miles. In a row. No stops. Not one.

And in the meantime, I've been going to pilates, kick boxing, and sculpt. Hmmm... Would you real athletes perhaps call that cross training? I'm not sure.

But as hard as this is for me (and yes, I admit it fully, running is really really hard for me), it's nothing compared to what kids with Batten Disease have to go though. When I've been outside running and thinking I might not even make it to the next traffic light unless I just take a rest and breath so that I can flood my leg muscles with oxygen, I think to myself, how lucky I am to have this body that works. That I can take it for granted that when my brain tells my feet to move, they move.

I'm no saint and sometimes I cheat and let myself quit early or cut off a few blocks that I'd planned on running when I was still inside and feeling optimistic. And I certainly can't go out and run a marathon (well, not this month)--or even a half or a 10K. In fact, 3 miles feels like a marathon. It's a distance I haven't even run yet without stopping. (well, not since college) But I am lucky to be able to try. Lucky to be able to work towards it. And I did nothing to earn this ability. This ability to work at it and improve and just keep putting one foot in front of the other. I just was born that way. I am a lucky, lucky girl.

And so, when I saw that there was a 5K race hosted by Our Boy's Journey on May 7th benefitting Batten Disease research, I knew we had to do it. With everything that Jeremy and Brandon and Taylor overcome every single day, I can't continue to just take my luck and health and amazing, complicated human body that works for granted. Plus, I'm sick and tired of the evilness of Batten Disease. Sick of it. Hate it. Hate what it's doing to Taylor. Hate what it's doing to other children too. To Jeremy and Brandon. To Tatyanna. To Celia. To Noah and Laine. To Bridget. To Jacob. To Hayden. And to many other children without websites. I want it to end and I want to do my part.

Honestly, I'm a bit nervous. I haven't run 3.1 miles consecutively in a row before without any breaks at all. But my goal isn't any particular time. My goal is be part of an event to bring attention to Batten Disease. And to finish a 5K. Preferably without stopping. And Math Man is going to run the entire thing with me (even though 3.1 miles is no biggie to him and he could probably run the whole thing twice in the time it will take me). And after all, if Taylor can do it, so can I.

So wish me luck. Even though, I know I already have it. So, more importantly wish for an end to Batten disease. Pray for it. Run for it. Give for it.

It Happened.

2011-04-26T07:14:00.000-04:00

I've titled this "It happened" because I always knew it would. When two people are meant to be together, that is just what happens.

Yes! Math Man and I got engaged this weekend!

Now for the story. As much for you bloggyland, as for me, because I don't want to forget a moment of it. (And with all the adrenaline I've had pumping through me this weekend I'm worried I might start to forget some of the details quickly) We had a wonderful weekend in Charleston. Friday, we spent walking Folly Beach. We actually got all the way to the south end of the island and then it started to rain. Mr. Mason (who never enjoys being wet) didn't seem too pleased, but Math Man and I huddled our heads close to each other under the umbrella and were glad we'd worn sneakers. We walked quickly because we could hear thunder and we both got pretty wet, but we managed to not be cold (ah, Charleston) and we were also enjoying having the beach to ourselves. We had lunch at Rita's (dog friendly covered patio!) and then headed back to our hotel for a quick nap (we were vacationing after all)!

We woke up, showered, and then set out to enjoy the sunshine that had finally burned the clouds away. Math Man had brough a bottle of wine and our hotel was nice enough to provide wine glasses. We sat (on towels to keep our butts drry) on a bench on the bluff overlooking the Ashley River and the marsh. For a few minutes we talked with another couple there. They told us that they were celebrating their 60th wedding anniversary. We congratulated them and chatted with them a bit more before they walked off.

Math Man and I started to talk about all our many trips to Charleston. And then he said that I was his best friend and that if we wanted to be back celebrating our 60th wedding anniversary, we'd better get on it. He got down on one knee and I can't even tell you what else he said. I leaped up, almost knocked him completely down (causing Mr. Mason quite a bit of excitment), and we had a big hug. I had tears in my eyes and just couldn't stop smiling. At some point, while we were still hugging, he said, "You know I have a ring."

And he did. And it's GORGEOUS. I love it. But mostly, I just love him. So very much. I've been engaged now for not even a full four days and I am still floating on the clouds. Smiling to myself. Pinching myself to make sure it's real. And spending huge amounts of time looking down at my left hand.

I am the luckiest girl in the world. Math Man, you are worth every single second of the wait and I cannot wait to be your wife!

Charleston for the Easter Weekend

2011-04-21T06:15:00.000-04:00

I'm pretty excited because Math Man, Mr. Mason, and I are slipping away to our favorite place ever. Charleston.

And I don't want to rub it in but look where we get to stay?

The Inn at Middleton Place is the kind of modern that I like. It is exactly the opposite sort of place I imagine staying in in Charleston but it looks so gorgeously integrated into it's surroundings and I just can't wait to sit out on that lawn reading a book or chatting with Math Man. And then explore the entire ~~place~~ grounds (it seems like the sort of place that warrants the word "grounds") with Mr. Mason.

Just look at those huge windows. And it's overlooking the river. Oh, plus, fireplaces in the rooms. (I mean, it's a bit warm for that, but still... one of my favorite things ever)

Between walking the beaches. Eating at our favorite restaurant ever. And exploring downtown. I just CANNOT wait to begin this weekend.

Home Inspiration: Layout Possibilities for Our Small Guest Bedroom

2011-04-20T17:06:00.000-04:00

Jess' Greener Life in a Small Space via Apartment Therapy

Hmmm... This post plus the one from a few days ago reveal (as if it wasn't already obvious) that I've clearly got the redecorating bug and badly. My mind is churning over redoing the guest room. This room with its taupe walls and green seems a bit cooler in its color scheme than the one I was liking a few days ago. Of course, I think they're more similar than different and certainly are illuminating to me some of the things I really seem to like. Crisp white bedding. No matchy-matchy furniture. Sea grass and other natural materials. Light.

Home Inspiration: Pops of Orange Pillows for the Bedroom

2011-04-19T23:03:00.002-04:00

I've been looking at throw pillows for our bedroom on Etsy. Do you have a favorite?

Pillows from (starting in top left, going counterclockwise):
Turqoise Tumbleweed
The Cottage Cubbard
Willa Skye Home
Couple Home
KainKain

Milk and Cookies

A Weekend Recap

2011-04-18T12:34:00.001-04:00

We survived the weekend tornados. And shopped 'til we dropped. Well, at least my mom and I did. I realize the juxstaposition of these two events seems somewhat callous and, I promise, dear readers, I do not mean it to be. It's just that that is what happened in my life this weekend. I am all for recording it as it is.

My parents got in town Friday night. Math Man was in class in Durham and, while I miss him always and every event is always immediately improved by his presence, I have to admit really relishing the two-on-one attention from my parents. Every child (even adult child) must feel this way sometimes, no? We went to the dog park where Mr. Mason didn't really socialize but he did get in some good sniffing and squirrel stalking. Then we went out for pizza (yes, the pups too) and I said yes when my dad plied my mom and I with wine. Why yes, I suppose I will have just one more glass, thank you. After all, wine goes so well with pizza. We chatted and Mr. Mason ~~enjoyed~~ tolerated his cousin (actually, they did quite well together).

My mom and I spent most of Saturday at the Tanger Outlets. I did quite well and would even go so far as to say that I relished my new size (the 70% off of everything at Banana didn't hurt either). Around 2 pm though, it got quite dark outside and the storm that had been somewhat threatening us all day, came out in full force. After about an hour of 40 mph (on the interstate!) white nuckle driving, we made it home by 3 pm. By 4 pm, the radio was telling us to get into the basement and Math Man had called to say he was in the basement of the MBA building. My little apartment is basement-less, so my parents, Mr. Mason, my parents' dog Pax, and I sat knee to knee on the floor of my pantry for an hour.

We were lucky. We lost power and had a few moments of fright. And afterwards, when we drove downtown looking for dinner, we realized just how close the storm had come. And how our life moved on so seemlessly. But for some families, life would never be the same way again. The power of the storm and the complete devastation in just a few small pockets of this state might not be as widespread as the devastation which cut across Japan last month or brought down upon the Gulf Coast by Katrina, but for those families affected, I know it is felt just as deeply. And will continue to be felt for a long time after the news stations move on to other stories.

Feeling undeservedly lucky.

p.s. Math Man and I ran 2.6 miles this weekend! Only one brief stop.

Soupe d'Oignon

2011-04-15T12:25:00.000-04:00

French Onion Soup is my jam.
Made it for the first time last night.
Used this recipe.
That Deb at SmittenKitchen really knows her stuff.
Go make it immediately.

Home Inspiration: Peaceful Guest Bedroom

2011-04-15T06:45:00.008-04:00

Photo found here at Apartment Therapy

I'm really loving this wroght iron bed. Too bad I'm sure they're all like a grand. Guess I'm just going to have to keep my craigslist eyes peeled.

Have yall all got a fun weekend planned? My parents are coming in town! Mom and I are going to go hit up the Tanger outlets. Then on Saturday evening once the Math Man is done with his classes, we'll all head out to dinner. Mr. Mason should get lots of time in tolerating his younger (and much more exuberant) cousin Pax. Math Man brough homebrewed beer for my dad to taste. Should be a good time.

Home Inspiration: Living Rooms

2011-04-14T06:51:00.000-04:00

I like that I can grab images online and then type my thoughts right on top of the images to record what tickled my happy bone. Here are a few I'm really loving (making me think that summer is coming) from the ever-expensive but classy Pottery Barn.

Photos all from Pottery Barn. Obviously, with my comments typed on top.

Also, I'm so very grateful that Hector is now a big brother. Baby Augustus is here. Safe and sound. He put up quite the fight--as his mama said "he was quite happy in his mancave"--and eventually after 34 hours of pushing, he had to make his entrance via c-section. Now my prayers are for his mama to heal so she can get home and spend this time soaking up and getting to know her son.

DIY Inspiration: Socialite Skirt

2011-04-13T12:41:00.003-04:00

Okay, one thing the internet is really good at is giving me loads and loads of ideas of things that I just HAVE TO make. Ugh, seriously, I think I need a sewing machine. This skirt is adorable and this woman's blog is just chocked full of adorable clothes she's made. I love them all but especially this skirt. Seriously, I would buy this in a store. And if I made it?!? I'd have to make it in EVERY SINGLE COLOR. Love it.

Socialite Skirt by Elle Apparel (she even posted a tutorial on how she made it!)

p.s. As of right now, no baby yet for Hector's mom and dad. Last I heard, after 38 hours of labor, they were prepping for a c section. Oh sweet baby, come safely.

Home Inspiration: Painted Wallpaper

2011-04-12T06:53:00.004-04:00

Surely I'm not crazy to want to do this?

Idea and photos found at Jones Design Company here

I mean, look how lovely it turned out:

Idea and photos found at Jones Design Company here

Seriously, I'm contemplating whether one wall with this in our bedroom (done on the dark/grey blue walls with the lighter blue which is in our master bath) would look as awesome in real life as it does in my head. Also, I'm wondering whether I could at all pull this off without giving up the use of our bedroom for like MONTHS. (Seriously, I have been known to be a get-it-done slacker.) What are your thoughts?

One more photo of handpainted wallpaper (or perhaps real wallpaper that could be handpainted) for inspiration:

Photo by Ballard Designs found on Centsational Girl

In non-home decorating news, I'm babysitting Mr. Mason's little buddy Hector (the sweetest SPCA special ever) while his mom and dad are at the hospital RIGHT THIS VERY MINUTE having his first human baby sibling. Oh, sweet Hector, your life is about to be rocked. I'm praying nonstop that this little baby will come gently into the world and I can't wait to meet him.

Chicago Weekend Reflections

2011-04-10T23:32:00.001-04:00

I flew up to Chicago this weekend for no other reason than because Math Man was working there during the week and it seemed like a good excuse to see friends.

And besides ridiculous delays getting up there (FOR NO REASON... there is a tirade about airlines somewhere in me not so far from the surface but I'm going to spare you), I had a wonderfulwonderful time.

I'm not going to share a blow by blow with you that would be only interesting to, uhm, no one. But I thought I would share some of the takeaways.

1. Northwestern Law is amazing. Seriously, in the words of one of my friends, I bleed purple. I don't even feel one tenth as strongly about my undergrad. I've drunk the purple kool-aid. I beleive in "the Northwestern difference."

2. The people I met at Northwestern are amazing. See point one. Seriously, friends for life.

3. Chicago is amazing. Love the city. Love the lake. Love the neighborhoods. Love the restaurants.

4. North Carolina's weather is amazing. I love how on Sunday, when Chicago experienced its first day in 2011 in the 80s, that everyone was outside soaking it up. But I love how in NC, we sometimes get to take that for granted because, after all, it will probably be in the 80s tomorrow too.

Already looking forward to my next trip back. And, again, even with the student loans, and the economic crisis, and the fact that 2010 was probably the worst year possible to graduate from law school, counting my blessings.

Home Inspiration: Photo Wall (again)

2011-04-08T07:05:00.000-04:00

Photo of Michael's Mini Manhattan Home via Apartment Therapy

Country Roads...

2011-04-06T19:22:00.000-04:00

I woke up to an NPR special on John Denver. I don't really know what they said about him because I was still in that state of sleepy, but I've had Country Roads in my head all day long. So, of course, I thought I'd share:

Almost heaven, West Virginia
Blue Ridge Mountains, Shenandoah River
Life is old there, older than the trees
Younger than the mountains, blowing like a breeze

Country roads, take me home
To the place I belong
West Virginia, Mountain Mama
Take me home, country roads

All my memories, gathered 'round her
Miners' Lady, stranger to blue water
Dark and dusty, painted on the sky
Misty taste of moonshine, teardrop in my eye

Country roads, take me home
To the place I belong
West Virginia, Mountain Mama
Take me home, country roads

I hear her voice, in the morning hour she calls me
The radio reminds me of my home far away
And drivin' down the road I get the feeling
That I should have been home yesterday, yesterday.

I might not be from West Virginia (nope, just westernish Virginia), but man that song can be added to the list of things that make me smile.

Home Inspiration: More of my Map Obsession

2011-04-06T13:52:00.000-04:00

photo found on Bromeliad here

Doesn't this look cool? (the map on the wall. I have to admit I'm not so much a fan of the funny coffee tables or the rug.)

Home Inspiration: Blue, White, and ORANGE!?

2011-04-05T06:51:00.000-04:00

What do you guys think? I've been dead set on blue and white for the bedroom. We have a lot of maps hanging in there now. No headboard. A needs-to-be repainted white dresser. A dark wood target desk. No curtains. Blue walls. A bathroom that's two shades lighter. White duvet. Boring. BoringBoring!

I'm thinking we need something to pop this room up. Without repainting. Because I do like the blue. And handy dandy orange is right across the color wheel. Plus, I can't believe I haven't thought of orange-and-blue before with it practically smacking me in the face with our orange and blue Chicago Ork poster.

These are the inspiration photos (because I'm not quite yet willing to show the interwebs a picture of the disaster that is our bedroom):

Photo found here on Apartment Therapy

And this could be a nice print to hang on the wall. I love the colors and I'd love it even more if it was a month that was special to us. (ehem, wouldn't it be cute to give someone a framed print of the calendar month of their wedding? Or perhaps a framed print to hang in a child's room of the month a baby was born. Adorbs!)

Paper Source Wall Art Calendar

Also, I'm pretty obsessed with the idea of this Sincerely Yours print that I found a picture of on SF Girl By Bay.

Anyone know where I can find this print? Also, would the wall color show through? LOVE.

Photo found here at Re-Nest

I'm thinking that I'll repaint (still bright white) the dresser, and perhaps replace the knobs. Perhaps with knob pulls with a bit of orange.

So sorry I don't know where this photo is from! (note the Ork poster in this room!)

I love you more than. . .

2011-04-04T20:03:00.001-04:00

Hey, Math Man! I love you more than When Harry Met Sally.
(The movie. Because obviously when Harry first met Sally they didn't love each other (yet) at all.)

Home Inspiration: Day Beds

2011-04-03T16:54:00.000-04:00

Ballard Design Oak Park Daybed

I love you more than. . .

2011-04-01T23:02:00.000-04:00

I love you more than the first Spring day in Chicago.

Home Inspiration: Bed Under Stairs

2011-04-01T10:34:00.002-04:00

How adorable is this? I want to tuck this little under-the-stairs-bed idea away for oh I don't know, some day when I have grandchildren and a beach house. Seriously, how cozy would it be to visit grandma and get to sleep under the stairs?

Double Dutch, Richard Leo Johnson Photography, found on Apartment Therapy

I'm not quite sure why the top left corner of the top bed nook is a right angle but then they've done a decorative curve on the top left and right corner of the bottom bed nook. And I think that I might go for less frilly bedding. (although, lovely, old quilts are quite appealing to me in my going-to-grandma's house fantasy, but maybe that's because that's what we always slept under when I visited mine growing up) It might even be fun to pain the inside back wall a different color from the white--perhaps a light blue or a soft yellow?

Hmmm... anyone notice that I'm tucking away eventual grandchild sleeping arrangement ideas when I don't even have children yet? Not to mention. Am not married. Am not even engaged. (yet).

It's okay, though. A girl can dream. And I'm meant to have grandchildren someday. Hmmm... and also obviously a beach house. Someday. And besides, I can't help it if the inspiration is right in front of me.

Home Inspiration: A Gorgeous Office

2011-03-30T22:34:00.002-04:00

Just in case you'd like to swoon.... (or are building your dream house).

photo found on Apartment Therapy

The Internet is Full of Good People

2011-03-30T07:42:00.003-04:00

As I mentioned to you the other day, I've been on a bit of weight-loss journey. Well, as part of that journey, I've been stumbling around bloggyland, looking for inspiration and reading about a wide variety of new-to-me workouts, light recipes, and various bits of encouragement when I really want to reach for a cookie instead. Which brought me to Rachel. Rachel has a very inspiring yoga blog--not only inspiring because of her yoga practice, but generally inspiring because of her general happy outlook on life. Oh, plus, she hosts the occasional giveaway. And this girl loves a good giveaway. And so, through some luck, after entering one of Rachel's giveaways, I found myself excitedly awaiting a yoga prize coming in the mail.

Only, it never came. Now, I don't know how often this happens, but I have to imagine I'm not the only one who's had this experience before. Excitment for something awesome and free to come in the mail. Something that I want but might not have splurged for myself. Thrill at how much I need new workout gear--because watching-what-I-eat-and-going-regularly-to-the-gym! is actually working and it would be nice to not hide out in my baggy sweat pants but to get to play at being one of those cute gym bunnies. But then, disappointment. Because it never shows up. And then realizing that boo.... I'd actually let myself get really excited about new workout wear and now I wasn't going to get it unless I forked over some hard-earned cash for it myself. (Hey, I'm not all splurgy in real life! After all, government attorneys don't make that much!)

But then... only five days ago (I literally just checked gmail to be sure that this timing is right because I was impressed with the speed), Rachel emailed me to tell me that she was so sorry but that it looked like the particular giveaway sponsor who'd hosted the giveaway I'd won was going to flake out.... but, and here's where Rachel wins one of my highly-prestigious (well to me) awesome-sauce awards, that she had some contacts within the yoga community and she'd reached out to see if another blog-sponsor could make it right by me. So she tells me to check out YogaWithStyle because Jennifer over there is going to send some goody my way.

I choose the Alo capri pant. In navy. Teal blue piping. And bloggyworld, let me tell you, there is a new gym bunny at the YMCA! (hehe, it's me! --just in case that wasn't obvious.) I can already tell that these pants are going to be in my regular rotation. Erhem, there going to join the ranks of pants-that-when-dirty-motivate-me-to-run-laundry-immediately! Comfy. Flexible. And cute to boot. They add ooom to my yoga practice and hi-ya! to my kickboxing.

Now this isn't a review blog. And I have no intention of making it one. This is a blog about things that make me happy. And the good in the world. And things that live up to the smile-standard set by Mr. Mason. Rachel and Jennifer, you guys make the cut. Thank you for stepping up and "making things right" when you didn't have to. When you had no obligation to whatsoever. For righting a wrong that wasn't even your fault. For making this girl smile and then fist pump.