Lovin'...Is What I Got

A little Sublime for your Wednesday morning!  

I'm linking up with This Kind of Love for What I'm Loving Wednesday!

1.    What to Expect When You're Expecting.  Bradley and I went to see this movie Monday night after I got back into town.  HILARIOUS!  This is definitely another couple must-see movie.

2.  Blog Giveaways.  I won not one, but TWO giveaways over the weekend.  How lucky can one girl get?

I get to choose a new iPhone cover courtesy of On Your Case.  Kristin from Simple Klassic Home featured this giveaway!  I have been wanting a new iPhone cover for some time, and couldn't be more excited!

I also won a Refresh Design Kit from My Design Ethos!  Thanks to Maury from Life on Mars, 

I get to work with talented Anna to update my living room.

I am both ecstatic and grateful to have won these amazing giveaways in one week!

3.  Memorial Day Weekend.  It's only 2.5 short days away and I can't wait to escape to my hometown and spend time with my family on the lake.  I plan on catching a few rays, enjoying the pontoon boat, and maybe a little tubing and skiing!

What are you lovin' this week?  Link up and let us know!

What I'm Loving Wednesday

I thought I would share with you a few of my most recent online purchases that I am excited about!

I am head over heels in love with this necklace.  I received it in the mail yesterday and immediately put it on!  The best part is I ordered mine on eBay for $15, shipping included!  Thanks to all the bloggers who took the plunge before I did.  I have to admit I was a little nervous considering it came from China.  I'm happy to report it is in great condition and around my neck today!

I ordered these curtains last night while perusing the Target website.  Yes, we've been in our home for over a year, and no I still haven't purchased curtains for our living room.  I've been waiting for the right inspiration, and I think this color is just what that room needs to brighten it up!  Pics to come soon.

I also ordered this coverlet last night from Target.  I've been wanting a new one for our bed, and to move ours into the guest bedroom.  The one currently in the guest bedroom is from when I was in college and has seen better days.  I plan to find a printed throw for the bottom of our bed as well!

I'm usually not a big online shopper as I like to check the items out in person before purchasing, but with the deal I got on the necklace and free shipping from Target, you just can't pass up the opportunity!

I'm linking up with This Kind of Love for What I'm Loving Wednesday!

What I'm Loving Wednesday: Fiesta Style!

Fiesta, Fiesta, Fiesta!  All I can think about this week is the Mexican holiday on Saturday, 

Cinco de Mayo.  I love any Mexican dish, and any excuse to indulge is good enough for me!

If I was preparing for a fiesta this weekend, there is no doubt that good food, tequila, and 

cute decorations would be involved.  Here are a few loves that I have found on Pinterest. 

Color blocking is all the rage this spring....why not for a fiesta?

{via}

I love the clean and simple greens!

{via}

These paper pinwheels would be a must have!

{via}

It's not a fiesta without the tequila!  

{via}

Appetizers are critical for hungry guests, and I'm sure 

these Chipotle Chicken Cups would not disappoint!

{via}

Who can resist chimichangas?

{via}

And of course my favorite, enchiladas (healthier, at that)!

{via}

Cool your guests off with these margarita popsicles.

{via}

These margarita cupcakes are sure to seal the deal!

{via}

And of course, after the fiesta comes a SIESTA!

Bradley and I will be joining a friend at her new home this Saturday for margaritas 

by the pool and a Mexican feast!  What are your Cinco de Mayo plans?

Linking up to This Kind of Love for What I'm Loving Wednesday!

Catch Up Wednesday

Whew! It's been a fun, but crazy past few weeks.  I haven't had the chance to catch you up much on my life since all of the wedding recaps, so here goes nothing....

{1} Monday, March 19th Bradley and I celebrated our one year wedding anniversary.  It truly is amazing how fast time flies by!  Without knowing any of the plans, my husband made dinner reservations downtown and re-created our engagement night!  We had a wonderful dinner at Peninsula Grill and then headed to the Rooftop Bar at Vendue Inn to have a drink and watch the sun set.  Such a romantic and memorable night!

 The wonderful complimentary dessert Peninsula Grill gave us...key lime pie bites and dark chocolate!

{2}  A friend and I went to the Celadon Outlet store a few weekends ago.  If you live in Charleston and haven't gone yet, get your butt there ASAP.  The actual store in Mt. Pleasant has a beautiful, but pricey selection.  Their outlet in North Charleston is only open to the public twice a week for about 3 hours.  Find the time to go!  Can't be the prices on this fabulous furniture and decor.

 Armoire priced at $612

 Fabric dining room chair- $125 each

Decorative Mirror- $119

{3}  Last weekend I went home and had a nice visit with my 90 year old grandmother.  She is spunkier than a fifteen year old teenage girl!  We had fun paining fingernails and baking in the sun.  Lord knows I love spending time with my Nanny!  

{4}My bird obsession continues.  This past weekend, Bradley and I went to Towne Center to run a few errands, and I fell in love with these salt and pepper shakers at Bed, Bath and Beyond.  Lucky for me, he let me put them in our cart to take home!  Who could resist these cute birdies?!

That's all I've got for you today loves! Off to catch up on your blogs!

Wednesday Love

What fun and exciting updates do I have for you guys today!  

There is a lot of love going on in my world these days.

{1} Craft night was a success last night.  Lots of wine, lots of laughing, and lots of creativity flowing.  I didn't have time to upload the pictures of our amazing wedding shadowboxes, but I can't wait to show them off soon.  I have to say, our shadowboxes are pretty awesome!  Pinterest worthy :)

{2} Bradley and I are celebrities.  Yesterday, I submitted a photo to the Gamecock Club and they posted it on their blog and Facebook page as the Fan Photo of the Day!

"This past weekend I surprised my husband with tickets to the Carolina/Princeton baseball game.  We are big Gamecock fans, and he is a baseball fanatic.  Believe it or not, this was his very first South Carolina baseball game at the home field.  We had a blast!" 

Spurs Up Daily Round-Up

Facebook

{3}  Our one year wedding anniversary is quickly sneaking up on us!  Monday marks a whole year that we have been married.  It's hard to believe that this time last year, I was finishing up my last day at work as a single woman.  It's amazing how fast time flies when you are having fun.

{4} I found some goodies at Ross last night.  Before I headed over for craft night I had some time to spare, so I stopped into Ross.  Boy am I glad I did.  I found not one, but two apothecary jars and got them both for $25!  It was a deal I couldn't resist.  I can't wait to find a home for them in the house.

{5}  St. Patty's Day is Saturday.  Don't forget to wear your green or look for the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow.  I know, I know, I'm so elementary school.

What I'm Loving

Sorry for the boring title post.  My creativity is slacking today.  There is a lot to be excited about though!

(1)  A few co-workers and I have set a date next week to do our wedding shadowboxes.  I am so excited and can't wait to show you all the finished product.  Throw in some wine and a few appetizers, and it is girls night indeed!

(2)  Remember when I told you my sister won a two minute shopping spree at Rack Room Shoes on Black Friday?  Well, on Monday she did just that.  My mom and I even told her in advance a few pairs that we would like.  After only two minutes, my sister racked up ELEVEN pairs of shoes.  She was kind enough to get four pair for me; a pair of Nike running shoes, two pair of sandals, and a pair of heels.  This is one happy girl, and I can't wait to go home and claim my prizes!

(3)  Tomorrow is my hubby's birthday and I have a little surprise planned for him this weekend.  It's so hard to surprise him because he usually ends up finding out, but I know that he will be excited!  Look out for a recap post next week about his weekend birthday surprise.

(4)  Last week I received a little package in the mail that I wasn't expecting.  My bestie/roomie from college surprised me with a few fun treats.  I am so loved and spoiled, and appreciate every bit of it!

 She found this fun little dress from H&M.  It wasn't in her size, 

but she snatched it up anyways because she knew it would look good on me.

And she made me a new running mix for my half marathon training!

(5)  Our very first wedding anniversary is coming up in a few weeks, and I am preparing a week long of posts centered around our big day.  I know I have shared a few photos on the blog, but I wanted to fully document our experience so you all can enjoy!  I will also be linking up with these lovely ladies and their wedding posts:

Week of Love

I think Valentine's should at least be a week long occurrence.  Don't you agree that we should celebrate those we love more than just one day a year?  I mean, I have enough candy to last me all week...maybe! In honor of this holiday of love, check out what gets to my "ticker" beating fast this week:

My mom and sister are both coming to Charleston for the long 3 day weekend we have ahead.  This is the first time I have had both of them under my roof together in over a year. It's about darn time!  We are going to do lots of cooking, wedding planning, exercising, and maybe even a little shopping.  I can't wait.

Since my sister is coming into town, I have already made a list of products for her to bring for my hair to replenish my stash.  And, we may squeeze in a little trim while she is here.  (My dead ends are jumping up and down for joy at the thought of this!)

Yah for the 3 day weekend!  Thank you President's Day for a mental break from work.  It couldn't have come at a better time, and what better way to celebrate than with ones that you love.

I installed the Words With Friends app on Sunday and all day yesterday the notification was "[insert name here] just made a move on you (in Words of course)".  I thought it was a cute addition for Valentine's Day!  PS. My addiction to this app is becoming stronger and stronger.

Yesterday after lunch, hubby and I went to his bank to add me to his account.  Yes it's been almost a year of marriage, but we decided long ago to keep separate checking accounts.  We are just getting around to adding me as joint owner so I can have access in case of an emergency.  I smiled and looked at my hubby when the banker asked if I would like my own debit card to the account.  Reluctantly, he said yes :).

I didn't watch much of the Grammy's on Sunday, but I did catch Jennifer Hudson's version of "I Will Always Love You". It was absolutely breathtaking, and I give her props for preparing on such a short notice.  What a create way to remember the great Whitney Houston!

Speaking of the Grammy's, congrats to my girl Adele for receiving SIX awards in one night, tying Beyonce for the most trophies won in one night.  Girl has a voice on her like no other!

What's your love list like this week?  {Try saying that three times in a row!}

What I'm Loving Wednesday

February 1st?  Where in the heck did January go?  I really can't believe that we are already one month into 2012.  It's funny how when I was a kid, I was always wishing time away so I could be a grown up. Now I just want it to slow down so savor each and every moment.  Now onto what I am loving this week.

There is FINALLY a new episode of Grey's on Thursday.  I couldn't be more happy to see McDreamy and the rest of the team.  Supposedly, Shonda Rhimes has a twist to this episode as to "what could have been" if different decisions and choices were made.  Kate Walsh also makes a guest appearance!

I completed mine and the hubby's taxes on Monday and should have a refund back by next week!  YIPPEE! This was our first time filing as married and me not filing as a student, so it was interesting to see how things changed.  Isn't it funny that my husband has the accounting degree, yet I am the one who always files our taxes and organizes the payment of bills?!

I finalized the plans for my sister's "Last Fling Before the Ring" and booked a hotel room for six of us.  We will spend a long weekend in Myrtle Beach, SC.  That's right-Dirty Myrtle!  

Beach by day, party by night!

A couple of friends and I have already pre-purchased our tickets online for the premiere of The Vow.  I have wanted to see this movie since I saw previews for it the end of last summer.  We are going to the Cinnebarre, so I am preparing for a drink in one hand and tissue in the other.

What's going on with you this week? Anything new?

Two Years Ago Today

Two years ago today, my boyfriend (at the time) of 4 years asked the question that would change the rest of our lives.  After a wonderful dinner at Peninsula Grill Downtown Charleston, Bradley got down on one knee and proposed.

Shocked doesn't even begin to describe my emotions that night.  I was beyond ecstatic when the love of my life asked for my hand in marriage.  We had been dating for what seemed like an eternity, and I honestly was not expecting "the question" anytime soon.  Sure, we had talked about getting married, but decided that we should wait until the time was right and our lives were somewhat in order.

Little did I know, the night of our annual anniversary dinner, Bradley had called ahead to the restaurant and made all of the plans.  After dinner, we headed to the courtyard for a few pictures that we forgot to get my roommate to take beforehand.  As our waiter was counting to take the picture, Bradley reached in his pocket and kneeled to ask the question every woman dreams about!  Lucky for us, the waiter was able to get it all on camera, even if it was dark and the pictures aren't all that clear.

After the proposal, we came back inside where my favorite dessert {chocolate cake} and champagne were waiting.  It couldn't have been a more perfect night!

This year, we will also celebrate our very first year of marriage.  I look forward to the future and all the memories that we will make together.  There is no one else I would rather have by my side. xoxoxo

Post Christmas Loves

Well hello there! Long time no see!  I have been busy this morning catching up at work and with all of your blogs to see what Santa brought you for Christmas.  Mine was fabulous.  I got to spend some much needed time with my family, go shopping, rest and relax.  It's always over so darn fast, but I did enjoy the time I had off from work.  I haven't loaded all of the pictures from my camera, but plan to do that tonight and have a full picture recap tomorrow.  Now, for what I'm loving this week:

{One} It's Wednesday!

Yes, I am excited about this because it is my first day back to work for the week.  That means another short week for me here in the office.  Although the work is piling on, it's worth it for a few days off!

{Two} Fantasy Football Champion

That's right.  At work, 14 of us competed in a fantasy football league.  I made the playoff games by the skin of my teeth, but came from behind and beat the #3, #2, and #1 seed to win the whole thing!  Some may call it luck, but I call it skill (my husband's that is) :).  A nice cash prize came along with the win too.

{Three} Christmas Decorations....

...are down.  Last night when we got home I took all the ornaments off the tree and packed it up along with the other decor in the house.  They are all in boxes just waiting to be put in the storage closet outside.  I hate to see them go, but glad it was an easy setup and break down!

{Four} Florida Bound

In just two short days, we will be packing up the car again and heading to Florida!  We will spend New Year's Eve in Tampa with my old roommate, and then traveling down to Orlando for the Capitol One Bowl game on Monday!  What a treat :).

Stay tuned tomorrow for a full Christmas recap!

What I'm Loving Wednesday: Christmas Edition

{ONE} Festival of Lights

This is the first year that I have attended the Festival of Lights on James Island here in Charleston.  I have to say I was quite impressed!  It's been years since I have gone to the one near my hometown, so this was definitely a treat.  My friend Maureen and I decided to have a date night and tour the county park filled with millions of lights.  We even parked the car and walked through the some scenes on foot.  I didn't take many pictures, but all the scenes were gorgeous, including the entrance to the park.

 Entrance

 Sand sculpture.  How amazing is that?

{TWO} Football Tickets

On Tuesday, the  hubby and I received our Capitol One Bowl tickets in the mail!  What does this have to do with Christmas you may ask?  Well, it is part of our Christmas gift to one another.  We are going to Tampa for New Year's and then driving over to Orlando to watch the Gamecocks play!  This will be my first bowl game, and I am super excited!  My old roomie & friend, Collins (who lives in Tampa) & her sister will be joining us as well!  Watch out Florida, the Fenders are coming to town!

{THREE} Christmas Shopping

I am almost finished with my list!  I only have a few more items to pick up and I will be ready for next weekend.  Bradley and I finished a good portion last night online, as we do every year.  It's so convenient to be able to shop from the comfort of your couch.  I am also exciting about the gift I am "re-gifting" for our White Elephant gift exchange at work tomorrow!  More on that to come later.

What are you up to these days?  Have you finished your holiday shopping?

Wednesday Pinterest Inspiration {Thanksgiving Style}

{I am thankful for my southern raising.  I am thankful that my grandmother taught my mom how to cook a good home cooked meal, and that she passed along the secrets to me.  I am thankful that my family still gathers around the same table every holiday to celebrate our forefathers.}  

{via Pinterest}

With this special holiday less than 8 days away, I wanted to give you a taste of my favorite holiday traditions.  With the large and extended family I have, each year I get to indulge in two-three Thanksgiving meals.  Poor me, right?!  Needless to say, a lot of napping happens in the aftermath!  My family tends to stick with southern tradition for this gathering, but there are no complaints here.

{via Pinterest}

Deep fried turkey is my absolute most favorite part of Thanksgiving tradition.  I don't know who started this tradition or why, but I am thankful.  A good basting with the right herbs and seasoning can give any bird a killer taste {no pun intended}.  The skin is crispy and flavorful, while the turkey is juicy and moist.  YUM!

{via Pinterest}

I think it is a southern sin to have a Thanksgiving meal without cornbread dressing...and no one makes this like my grandmother did!  It pairs perfectly with the turkey and brown gravy.  Make ya wanna slap yo mama!

{via Pinterest}

Green bean casserole.  There is not a better way to have green beans.  Don't get me wrong, I love steamed green beans, but casseroles are the way to go around the holidays!  Easy, peasy, pie, and OH so good!

{via Pinterest}

Squash casserole.  Need I say anymore?  This is my mom's specialty casserole for our meal every year.  She makes the best with lots of squash, cheese, and Ritz crackers!

There is nothing better than gathering around a table with those that you love to celebrate the Pilgrims' good harvest.  It truly is the season to be especially thankful and count our many blessings.  My husband's family has a tradition of going around the table and simply saying what it is you are most thankful for.  Sometimes it's hard just to only name a few off of my mile long list.

What are you most thankful for this holiday season?  What are some of your family's Thanksgiving traditions?

What the Flock?

{I am thankful that I have the ability to give to and serve others.  I have been blessed with resources and my health so that I may help those around me who are less fortunate.}


What I'm Loving Wednesday: Philanthropy Style

I love a good prank.  Don't you?  Want to know what even better than a prank?  Performing a prank and raising funds for a good cause!  My organization chooses to donate monetary efforts and time to Toys for Tots.  Twice a year, my department holds a fundraiser to support the cause.  For years, we have done candy grams at Valentine's and Halloween.  We fill bags with candy, sell them for a dollar, and deliver them on the holiday.  BORING.  So this fall, we put our heads together and came up with the greatest fundraiser of all time in our building...Flamingo Flocking!

So here's what we did:

• Purchased 40 standing lawn flamingos from Oriental Trading along with 100 inflatable flamingos
• We covered boxes with blue plastic tablecloths and stuck 4 yard flamingos in each
• Created flyers to post around the building for advertisement
• Sold "flocking insurance" for $5 if you did not want to be "flocked"
• For $5 you could chose to "flock" a co-worker (this flocking could be unanimous) which consisted of one box of yard flamingos and 10 inflatable friends
• Once you were "flocked", you could pay $1 to have them removed or $3 to "flock it forward" to another co-worker

Let me tell you, this has been a hit in our office!  Our department secretly flocks before work begins, during lunch, and after the victims leave for the evening.  They come back to their cube or office to find that a flock has landed!  With over 1,000 employees just in our building, we never expected the response we have gotten.  Even our VPs and Executives love the fundraiser and have supported generously!  So far we raised $1,000 to purchase toys to donate to Toys for Tots, and we still have a few days left.

Check out some of these pictures from our recent "flockings":

{Our fine feathered friends waiting to go out}

{The like large offices!}

{Their favorite is a window view}

{See what I mean?! he he}

{They love our feathered friends!}

Don't get me wrong.  This has been a lot of fun, but it has also been a lot of work!  Some of the members on our team have worked extremely hard to make sure this fundraiser was successful.  From the creativity of signs, posters, and notices, to organizing the schedule, to the actual "flocking", it has been a great experience!  

During the month of December, our atrium fills with toys for little boys and girls.  The money that we have raised will be used to purchase many gifts for the less fortunate.  One of the local news anchors will be here in the middle of December with a group of Marines to broadcast live from our atrium!  It is such a blessing to be able to give to such a good cause.

Does your organization donate their time and effort to any special philanthropies?

What was the best fundraiser that you participated in?