5 days

Dress - check
Rings - check
Marriage Licence and Officiant - check
Bride - check
Groom - check



I'm ready!!!

15 Days!

In 15 days I'll be marrying a wonderful man -- a gift from God. I am busy with preparation. God's provision has been humbling. There are so many people that have been generous beyond my highest expectations. I will never be able to thank them enough!

Our wedding is going to take place on a beautiful estate belonging to Noah's Aunt and Uncle. The property is called Mount Pleasant. It's strikingly beautiful. When I think about this momentous day being held outside in some of God's most beautiful handy-work, I feel richly blessed. I can't wait to share some pictures!

This weekend is all about prep! Lord be in every detail. I am also going to be with some of the lovely ladies in my life for a bridal shower this Saturday. I can't wait! I've been to a kabillion showers...but this one is for me! What a fun time in life.

*Marriage License today! Rings next week!*

This Weekend

I was ((thiiiiis)) close to 8 hours of sleep. Probably the closest i've been in quite a while. It was lovely. I climbed out of bed, pulled up Every Day Italian on TIVO, made myself an egg and some coffee and here I am chillin w/ Giada and my lap top.

This morning I need to exercise and research ties and shirts for the groomsmen and ushers...after i finish and episode of Giada at Home. She's my fav!!!

This afternoon, I'm heading out w/ my future mother and sister-in-law and my sis Maria to do some wedding reception shopping at good ol' costco! TONIGHT, i'm putting on a dress and some cute shoes and going dancing with my man! That's right. We are taking some dance lessons tonight. Not that he needs them. I on the other hand have two left feet. In exactly three weeks, I'll be dancing to "our song" with the love of my life on our wedding day. It doesn't feel like it's ONLY 3 weeks away.

Tomorrow after church, we might go to a horse show in Winchester for the afternoon. Should be lovely. Hopefully sunny so I can get some sun. I'll have to go sleeveless.

Ok -- enough postponing the day! Hope your weekend is lovely friends!

Summer Fare

I have this thing where I convince myself that if it's healthier, it tastes better. It's really a wonderful fault that I have - To be able to lie to myself and believe it so emphatically. Anyway, since falling in love w/ a self proclaimed "meat-a-tarian" I have indulged on a few things I had previously (maybe subconsciously) sworn off of. Namely, red meat. I admit, I'd eat it every once in a while, but I never really missed it. Anyway, ever since Noah and I discovered our little hole in the wall, local favorite, Jake and Mikes, I've fallen for a sandwich I never thought I would consider. Jake and Mikes is famous for their Russian Reuben. I usually opt for the Turkey version, but every once in a while I splurge and split the corned beef with Noah. I find that I am now a little obsessed with anything that touts the name "Reuben" and I came across this recipe in Rachael Ray's latest mag. I am determined to give it a try. Seems so summery...and unhealthy...and YUM-O!

Cape Cod Reuben



Ingredients:
One 12-ounce bottle lager beer, such as Samuel Adams 1-1/4 cups plus 2 tablespoons flour 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon paprika 3 cups cabbage slaw mix 1/2 cup Russian dressing 4 cups vegetable oil, for frying Four 6-ounce, 1/2-inch-thick cod or red snapper fillets 8 slices rye bread 8 slices Swiss cheese Directions:In a large bowl, whisk the beer, 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons flour, the salt and paprika until smooth. Chill for 30 minutes.

In a medium bowl, combine the slaw mix and 1/3 cup Russian dressing.

Preheat the broiler. Meanwhile, in a deep skillet, heat the oil until it registers 375° on a deep-fat thermometer. Place the remaining 1/4 cup flour on a large plate. Working 1 at a time, coat the fish fillets with the flour, shaking off any excess, then coat with the beer batter. Lower the fish into the oil and cook, turning occasionally, until brown and crispy, about 5 minutes. Transfer to paper towels to drain.

Place the bread on a baking sheet; broil until toasted. Transfer toasted side down onto a work surface. Spread the remaining Russian dressing on 4 slices, then top with the fish, slaw, cheese and remaining bread slices, toasted side up.

Be Still, Kari Jobe

He is here for the broken and life to the one who is undone
He is peace to the wounded and hope for the helpless one
He is here, He is here

Be still my soul, be still
Be still my soul, be still
Wait patiently upon the Lord
Be still my soul, be still

When the waves rise against me and the wind tries to draw me away
I will stand on the mountain, safe in Your arms I will sing I will sing

Be still my soul, be still
Be still my soul, be still
Wait patiently upon the Lord
Be still my soul, be still

Be still I know He is God
He is here, He is here
Be still I know He is God
He is here, He is here

So be still my soul, be still
Be still my soul, be still
Wait patiently upon the Lord
Be still my soul, be still
Wait patiently upon the Lord
Be still my soul, be still