When Two Friends Fall in Love

It's Thursday...finally! I have been waiting for Thursday to arrive since last Thursday!! All because this is my last workday of the week, and I have an amazing weekend planned. This weekend I will be traveling down to Topsail Island, NC for my dear friend's bachelorette festivities. I just can't wait to see her. It's been way. too. long. Brittany was my college roommate. We met at college orientation, actually, and we hit it off immediately. It was crazy how many things we had in common. And now, she is getting married to another dear friend, Will. Matt and I both worked with Will at Caswell. We are so thrilled that the two of them have each other!

Me, Will, and Matt way back in 2006! 

Me, Brittany, & Matt at our wedding! Brittany was a beautiful bridesmaid and I know she is going to make an even more beautiful bride!!

Will & Brittany, Matt and I both can't wait to be a part of their wedding in January!!

Visits, Hurricane, and Halloween!

It’s been semi eventful around our little apartment these days! This past weekend my dad and sister came to visit! It was the first time my dad came up to see our place. We had so much fun. I can’t tell you how much I miss him along with my entire family! I wish it were as easy as getting up and just driving a couple miles, but 6 hours is quite a hike. Granted, we don’t live on the opposite sides of the country! I am just glad Matt and I got to spend some quality time with my dad.

They arrived on Thursday afternoon. I was at work until 4, so they kept themselves entertained at the local Buffalo Wild Wings. Matt was able to sneak in after soccer on Thursday before returning to work, and luckily he was off Friday afternoon through Sunday, so he could join in on all the fun! I took my dad and my sister to the Commissary Thursday evening, and let just say Dad was impressed at the low prices! One of the perks of being a military wife; I do love shopping at the Commissary!!

On Friday after Matt got home, we went to take our Christmas pictures. Since my sister is a photographer, I had to take advantage of getting the pictures done while she was here. You know, Christmas is going to be here before we know it! Side note: I can’t believe it’s already November! The pictures look great, and I can’t wait to hand out our Christmas cards this year.

Saturday, we all got up and had a delicious breakfast of Dad’s famous hobos. Dad really wanted to visit the Harley shop, so we packed in the Civic and headed 30 minutes west towards motorcycle bliss! We made a few stops along the way at some flea markets and antique stores. When we arrived at Harley Davidson dad found a new t-shirt, and Heather and I got him a new hat (as an early birthday present). They were having a Halloween bash, and there were plenty of kids and adults dressed in costumes. We also happened to get a free lunch out of the deal! This was Matt’s first time ever in a Harley shop, so he was definitely taking it all in as best as he could. He may have been a bit overwhelmed. J It was fun, though!

Cute picture of Flip that Heather took!

for Morgan!

my dad... See, he's so cool!

Dad outside one of the flea markets!

Saturday night we went to a couple of parties that our friends were throwing for Halloween. We decided that it would be totally awesome to dress up as a biker gang! Matt had an excellent idea to supplement the biker gang by dressing in the cycling gear… get it?? Yes, it was pretty funny. Well, at least we thought it was! Some of our friends didn't quite catch our little joke! My dad, sister, and I were all looking hard core, and then there’s Matt in spandex shorts and a helmet. Funny husband…

The biker gang!  Minus the cyclist, Matt... But you can only imagine.

Heather... of course she made her shirt!

Pretty sister!

Dad and Heather left on Sunday, just in time before Hurricane Sandy arrived. Sunday was when I was supposed to run the Zombie 5K, but it was cancelled due to the storm! Such a bummer!! Luckily, Southern Maryland wasn't hit too hard by the storm. I never lost power at the apartment, and ended up working from home on both Monday and Tuesday. Matt was at work, and he said they lost power for only about 45 minutes. So, all in all, I can say we are blessed to be safe! My thoughts and prayers are with all those in Jersey, New York, and all the other areas that were hit the hardest.

Sheww!! After all that catching up, now it’s Friday! Matt took off work this weekend, because we were supposed to attend the youth fall retreat. Unfortunately, it was cancelled. So, now I am hosting a “Girls Night Out” at my house tonight, and Matt will be joining the guys at another leader’s home. I am sure it’s going to be a great time!! We will have some free time tomorrow, so I am excited to see what we will do to keep ourselves busy. I’m sure we will find something!

Well, sorry for the long post. I have been a terrible blogger lately (something Matt always reminds me), and I want to make sure I keep you all up to date with what’s going on with us. So, thanks for hanging in there! Have a safe and awesome weekend!

A Few Finds

So this past weekend was the third weekend of the month, and do you know what that means? It means that the Vintage Source is open for business! The Vintage Source is basically a flea market full of antiques, repurposed goods, and funky resale items. This weekend I was determined to find a dresser for our barren guest room. After looking everywhere and through everything, I came across the most awesome dresser, ever! It was perfect, and it was just what I wanted... 

blurry... sorry!

The dresser was repurposed, and it looks great with the coat of grey paint! I also found this unique side table for a steal at $25!

Finally, I am so stoked about this vintage bar cart! I have been looking for something similar, but everything I liked  cost a fortune! Luckily I got this guy for $23... And the best part about it-- I love it as is! 

Once I finished the guest room, I promise to post pictures! I can't wait for it to all come together. 

What2Wear Wednesday

What: Leather Jacket

Who: 20's to 60's you can make it look edgy or classy!

When: Fall

Why: Because you rock...

Jacket: bought two years ago on a discount rack; Shirt: H&M; Jeans: PacSun;
Shoes: Forever21; Sunglasses: Hobie; 'A' Necklace: Rebecca; Watch: Kohl's

P.S. Happy Anniversary to the sweetest, kindest, most loving person I know... I love you, Matthew, now and forever more!!

Anniversary Week

Happy Monday! It's the start of a new week, and it's not just any week... This week is our anniversary week!!

Wednesday, Matt and I will have been married for two whole years (we've been together for 7 1/2 years)! Honestly, I can't believe it's already been two years. It's been a fantastic two years, though. Sometimes, I feel like I have to pinch myself to be reminded that this is real life. God has blessed me with an amazing husband, and I know only he could have made two people fit so perfectly together. Words could never explain how much love and respect we have for each other. All I can say is that I am the happiest girl in the world.

I love you, Matt!

Photos: Millie Holloman Photography

Flowers: Salt Harbor Designs

May this week brings love and happiness to all. 

What2Wear Wednesday

Sorry I've been absent this past week. I really don't have an excuse. Things have been great here at the Stevens' household. Aunt Sherri, Uncle Clint, and Sophia came to visit Friday night. It was so good to see them! We had a great time just catching up. I really love when family has a chance to visit us. I'll be sure to post more about what's been going on as of late, but today is Wednesday.... That means a new W2W post!!

W2W: Peplum

How: dresses, jeans, tights, jackets

When: NOW!

Who: Anyone, of course!

Image via 9 to 5 Chic

Image via The Glitter Guide

Image via Girl with Curves

I'm sure just like every trend it won't sick around for too long, but I love it, and right now it's everywhere. So try it out, just make sure you pair a peplum top with a sleek and slim bottom... Remember: baggy = frumpy. And nobody wants to be frumpy!  

What2Wear Wednesday

This What2Wear Wednesday features my youngest sister, Brooke! She's so stylish, and since I haven't had any free time to take pictures -- she's my stand in. I like this idea, though. I'm thinking there might be more features in the future...

Fluorescent Boho

Blouse & Skirt: Forever21  Platforms: Steve Madden Winery Platform Sandals

Fingers Crossed

When I was attending UNC Wilmington and even after graduation, I had the privilege to work for an absolutely amazing event design company-- Salt Harbor Designs. The owner, Jennifer, is a creative genius, and I am so thankful for the time I had to spend working with her as her company grew and grew! I can't even begin to tell you how much fun and hard work went into preparing for each weekend. When Matt and I moved from Wilmington, I knew I was saying goodbye to an awesome job, and I wasn't sure if I would ever find another job that would be so satisfying. During my time with Salt Harbor, I developed a passion for weddings and events. Especially weddings...I love planning. I love creating. And let's not forget the love story surrounding the event!


Here's some lovely pictures from weddings and inspiration photo shoots I helped with while working at Salt Harbor. Photo cred: Millie Holloman Photography

See, genius... right?

Well, the reason I'm going on and on about weddings is that an opportunity has come up, and I might be able to jump back into the event planning industry. I am thrilled, and looking forward to seeing where this new adventure might take me. On the other hand, I am currently employed full time and volunteer with our church youth group every week. So making time for another job seems a little daunting, not to mention I don't want to miss spending quality time with the husband (since his own schedule is so wacky). There is so much on my mind, and I'm not exactly sure what route to take.

So, fingers crossed everything works out for the best! And on with another week! ;)

You Can Quote This

Things have been going really great here in our household lately. I feel like both Matt and I have some exciting, new adventures brewing. I can't wait until they all come full circle! Today I thought I would share some inpirational, funny, and honest quotes with y'all.

Enjoy.




Might I just add, I did win the "Hustle Award" in high school basketball... haha ;)




love this

pretty much...

:)

All images found via Pinterest.

What2Wear Wednesday

Try adding a hat to the mix...

As the cool air blows in, colorful pants (think warm jewel tones) and cute hats are a must! I've been a little under the weather these past few days, but something about this outfit and {even more} the day this picture was taken (beautiful weather and a date with the best husband in the world) makes me feel much better!

Fedora: Target, Shirt: PacSun (similar here), Belt: Old Navy, Pants: similar here, Shoes: TOMS

Where We Live

St. Mary's County...

Initially, when I first heard we were moving to Southern Maryland, I was excited for a change of scenery. Although, in January as we began to settle into our new home, I realized Southern Maryland is a lot like eastern North Carolina. There's plenty of farm land, country accents are not only accepted but also encouraged, and tractor pulls are prevalent (just a side note: I've never, ever been to a tractor pull in my life). We are close to D.C., Annapolis, and Baltimore which are all bustling cities that make for awesome day trips. But don't count out our new home turf for fun and entertainment.

I think Matt and I discover something new to do each month, and we are learning that Southern Maryland has tons to offer! Just this week we experienced the county fair and all its glory. It was not much different than Nash or Wilson County fairs. We enjoyed funnel cakes, candied apples, and we were able to pet some of the finest, award-winning farm animals in the county.

There are several wineries in and around St. Mary's County. Yesterday we finally visited Woodlawn Farm and enjoyed a wine tasting. The farm was gorgeous, and the wine was great! We will most definitely be visiting again soon. I can't wait to tour other wineries in the area.

The fair!

cute little sheered sheep

and big Clydesdales 

how to eat a funnel cake...

giant pumpkin, funnel cake (half cinnamon sugar/ half powdered sugar), me and chickens, Matt and a caramel apple

yummy food at Spinnakers

Point Lookout Marina

Woodlawn Farm (Slack wine tasting) 

the wine connoisseur  

Slack wine

love wine tastings

We're enjoying where we live and continuing to explore new places every week! My only complaint and one huge difference between Eastern NC and St. Mary's County: no boiled peanuts. I have been craving them since June! Surely, the fair would have boiled peanuts, right?! No. No boiled peanuts at the fair, on the side of the road, at the local convenient store, or anywhere for that matter. I am shocked, so I guess I'll be making my own boiled peanuts this year...

Our Week + Matt's Bruschetta

It's been a slow week here at the Stevens' household. Luckily, Matt has been on 'holiday' duty. It has been awesome to have him home almost every night. I think I'm spoiled... He made dinner for us, did some laundry, and was pretty much the awesome husband I already knew he was... ;) Also, those bar stools I mentioned last Friday, well, they arrived! I am so happy with them. I was a little worried they might be too short, since we have such a high counter; but they are just right!



The bar stools from World Market!


Those of you who know me well, know that I try to stick to a vegetarian diet with little dairy in the mix (let's not get too crazy and say I don't EVER eat meat or cheese i.e. the ooey gooey mozzarella below). I'm always searching for something new to make, and this recipe from Clean, Green, Simple definitely added some variety to the mix! It's called buffalo cauliflower, and it turned out great!


buffalo cauliflower


I also wanted to share Matt's recipe for his take on bruschetta. It was amazing, and not to mention, it was super simple and quick!


the cute chef ;)



Matt's Bruschetta

1/2 loaf of Sourdough bread

2 medium tomatoes

About a handful of fresh basil (torn)

Mozzarella Cheese

Olive Oil

Balsamic

Salt & Pepper

 

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees.

 

1. Slice bread into 1/2" slices and place on a baking sheet.

2. Drizzle sliced bread with olive oil.

3. Slice tomatoes and divide evenly among the bread.

4. Sprinkle each with salt and pepper and drizzle with a little balsamic vinegar.

5. Place basil on top of tomatoes.

6. Top with mozzarella.

7. Bake at 350 for about 10-15 minutes.



dinner is served

 

 

Be sure to let me know if you try out the recipe! I'm telling you it's a keeper, especially for those nights when you really don't feel like cooking. You can whip it up in no time. :)

 

 

 

 

Happy Weekend!

What2Wear Wednesday

I love a blazer...

...and a maxi dress

enjoy.

Photo Cred: Heather Beasley Bow + Arrow Photography
Blazer: Borrowed from my sister ;) Similar here, Dress: Lush- similar here, Shoes: Target (last season),
Necklace: Forever21, Earrings & Watch: Kohl's

Please feel free to pin away & don't forget to follow me!

The Good, The Bad, & The Awesome

A recap of last week with Instagram and the good, the bad, and the just plain awesome!

The Good

. Buying a new TV (it’s a big one…)
. Cute little Flip butt poking out of the covers

. Discovering new online shopping sites like Uncovet

. Making awkward faces to see baby smiles and laughter

. Stalking a bench at Marshall's for over a month, and it finally going on Clearance…

. Starting Christmas shopping early...Oh yes, I most certainly have.

. Pictures of husband in uniform ;)

 

 

The Bad

. When no one listens to you at Trivia although you were right

. Waiting in line 30 minutes at the Commissary, because you have 5 more items than allowed in order to use to the “Express” lane

. Husband loses debit card

. Husband doesn’t seem to care debit card is missing…

. The bar stools I ordered still haven’t arrived even though I keep checking the shipment process and they were supposed to arrive like forever ago...

. Returning library books 2 minutes late...grr!

 

 

The AWESOME

. The TV is mounted on the wall!! (Yes, I might be a little too excited about this)
. Cute mugs from friends asking Matt to be a groomsman in their wedding!!

. Making ridiculously good panang curry with sweet potatoes

. Launch is back every Sunday evening

. Three day weekends

. Running over three miles without walking!

. New TV premieres…I can’t wait to watch Revolution tonight.

. The arrival of fall-like weather