tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28582256100195959292024-03-13T23:42:20.986-04:00Fitness N 'AtA foodie/blogger bringing a little bit of the steel town to the Queen City. Sharing ideas, tips and my life pursuing a healthy lifestyle while being a young professional in a new place.Mackenziehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05554702614108376478noreply@blogger.comBlogger121125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2858225610019595929.post-486404481126920682014-05-21T16:32:00.000-04:002014-05-21T16:40:36.926-04:00Wedding Photos pt 2 - Reception!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I had the most fun of my life at our wedding reception. The room was beautiful and it was full of our friends and family ready to cheer us on which was one of the most moving experiences of my life. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Our reception had a slight 40's and 50's theme and so our tables were meant to show a certain kind of classic style. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-itiX48E4X3k/U30IUE2nSgI/AAAAAAAABFo/ARsY45yxWNw/s1600/Waite+Reception-8-3249281437-O.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-itiX48E4X3k/U30IUE2nSgI/AAAAAAAABFo/ARsY45yxWNw/s1600/Waite+Reception-8-3249281437-O.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-erQcD4G-r4A/U30IScOdOKI/AAAAAAAABFM/mPgMTnqcQW0/s1600/Waite+Reception-3-3249279319-O.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-erQcD4G-r4A/U30IScOdOKI/AAAAAAAABFM/mPgMTnqcQW0/s1600/Waite+Reception-3-3249279319-O.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IZ70gGqDIJs/U30IRogGR-I/AAAAAAAABFE/ZpsEGVfkg-4/s1600/Waite+Reception-10-3249281478-O.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IZ70gGqDIJs/U30IRogGR-I/AAAAAAAABFE/ZpsEGVfkg-4/s1600/Waite+Reception-10-3249281478-O.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IZ70gGqDIJs/U30IRogGR-I/AAAAAAAABFE/ZpsEGVfkg-4/s1600/Waite+Reception-10-3249281478-O.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gogHJaeCLvk/U30IRfprtmI/AAAAAAAABFU/VxQ_MM7OOlg/s1600/Waite%252BReception-12-3249282851-O.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gogHJaeCLvk/U30IRfprtmI/AAAAAAAABFU/VxQ_MM7OOlg/s1600/Waite%252BReception-12-3249282851-O.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We waited at the top of the stairs after our photos were completed outside, to be announced down a beautiful grand staircase to join our guests. It was at this point that I realized that we had really done it and we were about to walk down those stairs into a room full of people who loved and supported us. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
First, of course, we needed to announce our lovely bridal party though!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DuzyWX-krgE/U30JHLKmu7I/AAAAAAAABG8/JY6ExNCkP6Y/s1600/Waite%252BReception-16-3249283886-O.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DuzyWX-krgE/U30JHLKmu7I/AAAAAAAABG8/JY6ExNCkP6Y/s1600/Waite%252BReception-16-3249283886-O.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kat and Eric</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4sFXuRWbPA8/U30JHdhB9II/AAAAAAAABHE/JzIK34Y1dO4/s1600/Waite%252BReception-17-3249285241-O.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4sFXuRWbPA8/U30JHdhB9II/AAAAAAAABHE/JzIK34Y1dO4/s1600/Waite%252BReception-17-3249285241-O.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Matt and Allie</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Xb4aTv3GiZg/U30JHZ0OIjI/AAAAAAAABHA/npfHNNlEsD8/s1600/Waite%252BReception-18-3249285458-O.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Xb4aTv3GiZg/U30JHZ0OIjI/AAAAAAAABHA/npfHNNlEsD8/s1600/Waite%252BReception-18-3249285458-O.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">April and John</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cO46IdwOV4U/U30JJI7ZO4I/AAAAAAAABHM/pe6rwGExh4w/s1600/Waite%252BReception-20-3249286271-O.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cO46IdwOV4U/U30JJI7ZO4I/AAAAAAAABHM/pe6rwGExh4w/s1600/Waite%252BReception-20-3249286271-O.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sam, Donovan and Sydney</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Poor little Syd took a spill down the stairs which is something we were afraid of all day but she brushed it off like a pro!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YGDREHcEoMg/U30OZH0_npI/AAAAAAAABIE/ZODBrbBx-rM/s1600/Waite+Reception-171-3249366886-O.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YGDREHcEoMg/U30OZH0_npI/AAAAAAAABIE/ZODBrbBx-rM/s1600/Waite+Reception-171-3249366886-O.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KHMWKsqRpZI/U30O7egw4YI/AAAAAAAABIg/OXYhiBQJVPc/s1600/Waite%252BReception-121-3249319221-O.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KHMWKsqRpZI/U30O7egw4YI/AAAAAAAABIg/OXYhiBQJVPc/s1600/Waite%252BReception-121-3249319221-O.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Then it was our turn! I was so excited to be announced and actually be able to talk with all of our friends.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vfM4MRWRx7w/U30IRV-Uj9I/AAAAAAAABFg/OpFqMMvn2k4/s1600/Waite%252BReception-25-3249288543-O.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vfM4MRWRx7w/U30IRV-Uj9I/AAAAAAAABFg/OpFqMMvn2k4/s1600/Waite%252BReception-25-3249288543-O.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
This is also probably the best picture taken of me the entire day. Obviously, I was excited. <br />
<br />
We took the dance floor for our first dance as a married couple to "Come Rain or Come Shine" by Ray Charles. The progression of these photos is probably my favorite because you can see it go from "aww he is looking at her so lovingly..." all the way to "wow, that guy is really singing" by the end. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FjnHkpGRSNs/U30KlaJOGoI/AAAAAAAABHQ/whEP4A2-Rh4/s1600/Waite+Reception-34-3249291231-O.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FjnHkpGRSNs/U30KlaJOGoI/AAAAAAAABHQ/whEP4A2-Rh4/s1600/Waite+Reception-34-3249291231-O.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lovingly gazing into my eyes</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-o3XjOCN2zg8/U30KlRArzqI/AAAAAAAABHY/o152ljP0we0/s1600/Waite+Reception-35-3249291714-O.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-o3XjOCN2zg8/U30KlRArzqI/AAAAAAAABHY/o152ljP0we0/s1600/Waite+Reception-35-3249291714-O.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">hmm.. hey maybe I'll sing to her</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-D3cDFCfwkmE/U30KlpP1J-I/AAAAAAAABHU/3RzIye7098Y/s1600/Waite+Reception-36-3249292292-O.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-D3cDFCfwkmE/U30KlpP1J-I/AAAAAAAABHU/3RzIye7098Y/s1600/Waite+Reception-36-3249292292-O.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wow, I am blowing her away with this singing. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sNAvpEugYNA/U30KnZOE-CI/AAAAAAAABHo/8NzhVNOyfsc/s1600/Waite+Reception-37-3249292422-O.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sNAvpEugYNA/U30KnZOE-CI/AAAAAAAABHo/8NzhVNOyfsc/s1600/Waite+Reception-37-3249292422-O.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bring it home!!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
After our dance together, we had our separate dances with our parents. Mine was something I had been planning for a while and my dad didn't know the song I had chosen or why. I chose "Everybody Knows Your Name" from Cheers which seems weird but there is a story behind it and at the end of the day it makes me think of my dad.<br />
<br />
I was able to tell the story to the group before the dance so that people weren't completely confused and my dad heard it for the first time. The reaction of the crowd and my dad were so memorable and absolutely priceless to me.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Knktzw0wxvI/U30I5yzWSkI/AAAAAAAABGo/llEfI-ZjA7U/s1600/Waite%252BReception-41-3249293617-O.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Knktzw0wxvI/U30I5yzWSkI/AAAAAAAABGo/llEfI-ZjA7U/s1600/Waite%252BReception-41-3249293617-O.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Later in the evening were the speeches and cake cutting. Of course...I cried.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FkDCpAVmues/U30I6as1HGI/AAAAAAAABGs/LxfHLxWH_FI/s1600/Waite%252BReception-84-3249307060-O.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FkDCpAVmues/U30I6as1HGI/AAAAAAAABGs/LxfHLxWH_FI/s1600/Waite%252BReception-84-3249307060-O.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Hearing my sister, my best friend say such wonderful things about Dwayne and I, our future and my past was so moving. I am not one to cry but this brought me to tears. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AbCq0ylNVkI/U30LwCctXoI/AAAAAAAABHw/bey8LTDeOAo/s1600/Waite+Reception-81-3249306054-O.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AbCq0ylNVkI/U30LwCctXoI/AAAAAAAABHw/bey8LTDeOAo/s1600/Waite+Reception-81-3249306054-O.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">April - Maid of Honor and Best Friend</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kEA4vxhU3o8/U30LwdiaWhI/AAAAAAAABH0/hMiiEz9--l4/s1600/Waite+Reception-86-3249307637-O.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kEA4vxhU3o8/U30LwdiaWhI/AAAAAAAABH0/hMiiEz9--l4/s1600/Waite+Reception-86-3249307637-O.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sam- Matron of Honor and Older Sister</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
So many people asked us before the wedding if we were going to do the "slam the cake in each others faces" thing at our wedding. The answer from both of us was a resounding -NO! <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QVBCZhtPfME/U30OY7cWmsI/AAAAAAAABIM/ferM8QFphKk/s1600/Waite%252BReception-201-3249376431-O.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QVBCZhtPfME/U30OY7cWmsI/AAAAAAAABIM/ferM8QFphKk/s1600/Waite%252BReception-201-3249376431-O.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-URgwhI4Xcf8/U30I2DivQUI/AAAAAAAABGI/mAvatuLor-0/s1600/Waite%252BReception-203-3249376673-O.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-URgwhI4Xcf8/U30I2DivQUI/AAAAAAAABGI/mAvatuLor-0/s1600/Waite%252BReception-203-3249376673-O.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
After all the traditional things were out of the way, the bouquet toss and dinner, we were able to relax and have fun with our friends and family. <br />
<br />
Our fathers both gave speeches that were very emotional and heartfelt. You can see how intently we are listening. ( I wish I didn't have a Miller lite in my hand but hey, I didn't realize I was being photographed- photoshop!)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1Vt8p5Z9LjU/U30I1xyvZoI/AAAAAAAABGA/Lf_eI_bnPxw/s1600/Waite%252BReception-295-3249408831-O.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1Vt8p5Z9LjU/U30I1xyvZoI/AAAAAAAABGA/Lf_eI_bnPxw/s1600/Waite%252BReception-295-3249408831-O.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
We spent the rest of the night dancing and having a blast, leaving to go back to our hotel after a long day as husband and wife. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mnnAbyudw-k/U30O7dtPZlI/AAAAAAAABIY/Tc0UuSwkZR0/s1600/Waite+Reception-154-3249330429-O.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mnnAbyudw-k/U30O7dtPZlI/AAAAAAAABIY/Tc0UuSwkZR0/s1600/Waite+Reception-154-3249330429-O.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bSyf6hBzLBQ/U30O65OVJyI/AAAAAAAABIQ/Wg0XD2zNtrg/s1600/Waite+Reception-193-3249373704-O.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bSyf6hBzLBQ/U30O65OVJyI/AAAAAAAABIQ/Wg0XD2zNtrg/s1600/Waite+Reception-193-3249373704-O.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KTcyq2jQYa0/U30O81MSLBI/AAAAAAAABIo/2aeT_OGgxKI/s1600/Waite+Reception-196-3249374877-O.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KTcyq2jQYa0/U30O81MSLBI/AAAAAAAABIo/2aeT_OGgxKI/s1600/Waite+Reception-196-3249374877-O.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZiG91WrJpnI/U30O9GOKi9I/AAAAAAAABI8/y_2irL6y6Vo/s1600/Waite+Reception-219-3249382089-O.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZiG91WrJpnI/U30O9GOKi9I/AAAAAAAABI8/y_2irL6y6Vo/s1600/Waite+Reception-219-3249382089-O.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fdsGBWo11VA/U30O9fpaWbI/AAAAAAAABIw/OtIlsnYavOw/s1600/Waite+Reception-224-3249384139-O.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fdsGBWo11VA/U30O9fpaWbI/AAAAAAAABIw/OtIlsnYavOw/s1600/Waite+Reception-224-3249384139-O.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Iig1NRSTfLI/U30O-gAVwdI/AAAAAAAABI0/NuAfZvr5BQc/s1600/Waite+Reception-230-3249386621-O.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Iig1NRSTfLI/U30O-gAVwdI/AAAAAAAABI0/NuAfZvr5BQc/s1600/Waite+Reception-230-3249386621-O.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WfdFOZzBF_M/U30I2GBpWhI/AAAAAAAABF4/dIMbXTeib-w/s1600/Waite%252BReception-226-3249384948-O.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WfdFOZzBF_M/U30I2GBpWhI/AAAAAAAABF4/dIMbXTeib-w/s1600/Waite%252BReception-226-3249384948-O.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
and so my friends... all I leave you with after all of this planning, excitement and love is this photo that I think really says it all about how our marriage is going to go. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4-095avQvkA/U30I31KltHI/AAAAAAAABGQ/kSADWh-BO4k/s1600/Waite%252BReception-322-3249416946-O.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4-095avQvkA/U30I31KltHI/AAAAAAAABGQ/kSADWh-BO4k/s1600/Waite%252BReception-322-3249416946-O.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Mackenziehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05554702614108376478noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2858225610019595929.post-52945952820375789862014-05-20T11:37:00.003-04:002014-05-20T12:14:11.403-04:00Wedding Photos are In!! Pre-Ceremony and CeremonyThe time has come everyone!<br />
<br />
We have officially made it more than a month as husband and wife. It is still strange to call Dwayne my husband. Just this week I called him my fiancé to someone and they corrected me. Embarrassing but this takes some getting used to!<br />
<br />
I want to give a huge thank you to Rachel Tokarski from Rachel Tokarski Photography for doing such an amazing job the day of the wedding with these photos. There are so many of them and I wanted to share some of my favorite and most emotionally charged photos with you. <br />
<br />
There are a lot of photos so I am going to share the getting ready and pre-ceremony/ceremony photos on this post and then the reception ones on the next. <br />
<br />
This photo is one of my absolute favorites because it is my dad seeing me in my dress for the first time. The happiness on his face is so evident and I just love it!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-B5S3qWYQfpI/U3tyEiqZ6zI/AAAAAAAABAQ/2qfJhqKSs0M/s1600/Waite%252BGetting%252BReady-Portraits--3244766297-O.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-B5S3qWYQfpI/U3tyEiqZ6zI/AAAAAAAABAQ/2qfJhqKSs0M/s1600/Waite%252BGetting%252BReady-Portraits--3244766297-O.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Before the ceremony, we took photos of each side of the bridal party to save time during the wedding. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5V_E1FT3NR4/U3tyEuyEQwI/AAAAAAAABAI/a5u6Ytyq_lk/s1600/Waite%252BGetting%252BReady-Portraits--3244772738-O.jpg" height="320" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="213" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Flower girl stood still long enough for a cute photo</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-o7Bheah0Bmg/U3t1_EyuCLI/AAAAAAAABEg/j4Flh1YX_Y4/s1600/Waite+Getting+Ready-Portraits--3244772166-O.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-o7Bheah0Bmg/U3t1_EyuCLI/AAAAAAAABEg/j4Flh1YX_Y4/s1600/Waite+Getting+Ready-Portraits--3244772166-O.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kpb-Olwt41U/U3t1_PEahrI/AAAAAAAABEk/oSv1XbZx4AM/s1600/Waite+Getting+Ready-Portraits--3244772221-O.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kpb-Olwt41U/U3t1_PEahrI/AAAAAAAABEk/oSv1XbZx4AM/s1600/Waite+Getting+Ready-Portraits--3244772221-O.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wFNAV4qhLVI/U3tyEr_xZeI/AAAAAAAABAk/PZ04Rpa5knc/s1600/Waite%252BGetting%252BReady-Portraits--3244772818-O.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wFNAV4qhLVI/U3tyEr_xZeI/AAAAAAAABAk/PZ04Rpa5knc/s1600/Waite%252BGetting%252BReady-Portraits--3244772818-O.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZmgrDF1Qbpw/U3tyFzQUtDI/AAAAAAAABAs/QHb7VNqCUUU/s1600/Waite%252BGetting%252BReady-Portraits--3244773623-O.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZmgrDF1Qbpw/U3tyFzQUtDI/AAAAAAAABAs/QHb7VNqCUUU/s1600/Waite%252BGetting%252BReady-Portraits--3244773623-O.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SQg7TnacCcY/U3tyF044DSI/AAAAAAAABAo/RFXZBM8bJFA/s1600/Waite%252BGetting%252BReady-Portraits--3244773477-O.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SQg7TnacCcY/U3tyF044DSI/AAAAAAAABAo/RFXZBM8bJFA/s1600/Waite%252BGetting%252BReady-Portraits--3244773477-O.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GLy6A4WffVI/U3tyG3mCp8I/AAAAAAAABAg/Wm_gvtGxQBo/s1600/Waite%252BGetting%252BReady-Portraits--3244774192-O.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GLy6A4WffVI/U3tyG3mCp8I/AAAAAAAABAg/Wm_gvtGxQBo/s1600/Waite%252BGetting%252BReady-Portraits--3244774192-O.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Generational - Grandma, Mother and Daughter</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Right before the ceremony started, Dwayne and I wanted to talk privately about this important step. Without seeing each other, we were able to have a minute to say I Love You. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mo208SyJyS8/U3txy9DX-nI/AAAAAAAAA_8/FDzocmOOw6s/s1600/Waite%252BGetting%252BReady-Portraits--3244789505-O.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mo208SyJyS8/U3txy9DX-nI/AAAAAAAAA_8/FDzocmOOw6s/s1600/Waite%252BGetting%252BReady-Portraits--3244789505-O.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We were able to talk to each other without seeing one another before the ceremony with some creativity. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
One of the things that was very important to Dwayne was to be able to be outside before the ceremony and greet people as they were coming in. There is a great photo of Dwayne hugging one of my family members, Debbie who always has us over to her house on Christmas and Thanksgiving. The emotion and love is so visible here. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rhLRFXbuj_w/U3txNDnN9JI/AAAAAAAAA_o/pkYGLwxg5S0/s1600/Waite+Ceremony+B%2526W-8-3247178280-O.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rhLRFXbuj_w/U3txNDnN9JI/AAAAAAAAA_o/pkYGLwxg5S0/s1600/Waite+Ceremony+B%2526W-8-3247178280-O.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Probably the best part of the pre-ceremony photos were the shots that we got with our wedding party and families. We were surrounded by love and it was so wonderful. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uxNgW4mO7U0/U3txrW_IIXI/AAAAAAAAA_0/XaPVzRK_nRQ/s1600/Waite%252BGetting%252BReady-Portraits--3244779061-O.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uxNgW4mO7U0/U3txrW_IIXI/AAAAAAAAA_0/XaPVzRK_nRQ/s1600/Waite%252BGetting%252BReady-Portraits--3244779061-O.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-W5ECzWuM7Sg/U3tzXDkYmiI/AAAAAAAABCg/0Tn-u0dkRS0/s1600/Waite+Getting+Ready-Portraits--3244771242-O.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-W5ECzWuM7Sg/U3tzXDkYmiI/AAAAAAAABCg/0Tn-u0dkRS0/s1600/Waite+Getting+Ready-Portraits--3244771242-O.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Even got some photos that we weren't even trying for! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
During the ceremony, there was laughter, tears and a lot of memories.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lAd3du-qoFI/U3t0RlMUk-I/AAAAAAAABD8/3r67EgOdagA/s1600/Waite+Ceremony-65-3247221232-O.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lAd3du-qoFI/U3t0RlMUk-I/AAAAAAAABD8/3r67EgOdagA/s1600/Waite+Ceremony-65-3247221232-O.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3McXLAHN8TU/U3t0R6vBBWI/AAAAAAAABEM/GxdbBIZKDUs/s1600/Waite+Ceremony-75-3247222294-O.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3McXLAHN8TU/U3t0R6vBBWI/AAAAAAAABEM/GxdbBIZKDUs/s1600/Waite+Ceremony-75-3247222294-O.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-012CKpZY5q0/U3t0Pp-ahPI/AAAAAAAABD4/Zm_IByEMigw/s1600/Waite+Ceremony-125-3247235882-O.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-012CKpZY5q0/U3t0Pp-ahPI/AAAAAAAABD4/Zm_IByEMigw/s1600/Waite+Ceremony-125-3247235882-O.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Llw6X0JbtvY/U3t0QRkFG6I/AAAAAAAABD0/VzyoHGrLoG4/s1600/Waite+Ceremony-128-3247236484-O.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Llw6X0JbtvY/U3t0QRkFG6I/AAAAAAAABD0/VzyoHGrLoG4/s1600/Waite+Ceremony-128-3247236484-O.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is one of my favorites - while some people might be nervous or fearful on their wedding day, Dwayne was nothing if not pumped. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fvWMQbTGUoo/U3t0PoCZifI/AAAAAAAABDs/SG3Pu1qiThc/s1600/Waite+Ceremony-138-3247238182-O.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fvWMQbTGUoo/U3t0PoCZifI/AAAAAAAABDs/SG3Pu1qiThc/s1600/Waite+Ceremony-138-3247238182-O.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qIwFK0MYOAA/U3t0RpTsgoI/AAAAAAAABEI/ehmgzott7b4/s1600/Waite+Ceremony-139-3247238938-O.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qIwFK0MYOAA/U3t0RpTsgoI/AAAAAAAABEI/ehmgzott7b4/s1600/Waite+Ceremony-139-3247238938-O.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
After the ceremony, we had to gather everyone in the wedding party for some quick photos but first we had to make it official! These photos are some of my favorites because it captured some of our biggest moments. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WpSFKxS-VVo/U3tym3rLD9I/AAAAAAAABBE/gLp6SXRepTk/s1600/Waite%252BCeremony-172-3247242532-O.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WpSFKxS-VVo/U3tym3rLD9I/AAAAAAAABBE/gLp6SXRepTk/s1600/Waite%252BCeremony-172-3247242532-O.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our first seconds alone as husband and wife</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ikjet6FKvN4/U3tyl5EiSoI/AAAAAAAABA8/JhZXtco4YHA/s1600/Waite%252BCeremony-142-3247240082-O.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ikjet6FKvN4/U3tyl5EiSoI/AAAAAAAABA8/JhZXtco4YHA/s1600/Waite%252BCeremony-142-3247240082-O.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Making it official and signing the papers!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vBSfU1FSfng/U3tynQ17ERI/AAAAAAAABBU/fjNhIsroQYg/s1600/Waite%252BCeremony-174-3247242870-O.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vBSfU1FSfng/U3tynQ17ERI/AAAAAAAABBU/fjNhIsroQYg/s1600/Waite%252BCeremony-174-3247242870-O.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This picture is the epitome of Dwayne and I. We're married! Hey High-FIVE!!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5V_E1FT3NR4/U3tyEuyEQwI/AAAAAAAABAI/a5u6Ytyq_lk/s1600/Waite%252BGetting%252BReady-Portraits--3244772738-O.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a> </div>
After everything was official, we ran outside to take some photos and got some really amazing ones. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-P6N4PCMbytA/U3tyoq3ygGI/AAAAAAAABBw/FLbm9tCyElE/s1600/Waite%252BWedding%252BPortraits-11-3247338704-O.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-P6N4PCMbytA/U3tyoq3ygGI/AAAAAAAABBw/FLbm9tCyElE/s1600/Waite%252BWedding%252BPortraits-11-3247338704-O.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My official Father in Law</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--dhr0TL6pCg/U3typeJucNI/AAAAAAAABB8/cV2OVUeaWlg/s1600/Waite%252BWedding%252BPortraits-12-3247338769-O.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--dhr0TL6pCg/U3typeJucNI/AAAAAAAABB8/cV2OVUeaWlg/s1600/Waite%252BWedding%252BPortraits-12-3247338769-O.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My dad and I</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0MhxYHwRJSc/U3tzvmFPd8I/AAAAAAAABDE/6Q7DBfUJPSw/s1600/Waite%252BWedding%252BPortraits-17-3247339282-O.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0MhxYHwRJSc/U3tzvmFPd8I/AAAAAAAABDE/6Q7DBfUJPSw/s1600/Waite%252BWedding%252BPortraits-17-3247339282-O.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The whole wedding party</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Before we headed into the reception, we got some beautiful and creative shots using our venue. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-amCaw4kUp4w/U3tzwvuMXkI/AAAAAAAABDg/QrKh5P9On5s/s1600/Waite%252BWedding%252BPortraits-81-3247347385-O.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-amCaw4kUp4w/U3tzwvuMXkI/AAAAAAAABDg/QrKh5P9On5s/s1600/Waite%252BWedding%252BPortraits-81-3247347385-O.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Tw_CJPUt_r8/U3tzxBaJaCI/AAAAAAAABDk/-cChXYG1eYE/s1600/Waite%252BWedding%252BPortraits-84-3247347630-O.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Tw_CJPUt_r8/U3tzxBaJaCI/AAAAAAAABDk/-cChXYG1eYE/s1600/Waite%252BWedding%252BPortraits-84-3247347630-O.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Rz2ZWK6TsL0/U3tzw0q04fI/AAAAAAAABDc/QEu1fVUDxdo/s1600/Waite%252BWedding%252BPortraits-82-3247347474-O.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Rz2ZWK6TsL0/U3tzw0q04fI/AAAAAAAABDc/QEu1fVUDxdo/s1600/Waite%252BWedding%252BPortraits-82-3247347474-O.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It was absolutely perfect and I can't wait to share more photos with you from our big day! The reception photos are so wonderful and I can't wait to share them in my next post. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3_N6cpXhRO0/U3tzvxn2X6I/AAAAAAAABDU/-QzndDdUJIY/s1600/Waite%252BWedding%252BPortraits-21-3247340071-O.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3_N6cpXhRO0/U3tzvxn2X6I/AAAAAAAABDU/-QzndDdUJIY/s1600/Waite%252BWedding%252BPortraits-21-3247340071-O.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Mackenziehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05554702614108376478noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2858225610019595929.post-67540490080787750652014-04-24T10:57:00.004-04:002014-04-24T10:59:48.295-04:00Wedding Photo Preview w/ Rachel Tokarski PhotographyLet me tell you about our amazing wedding photographer! As I have said before, choosing a photographer was an absolute no-brainer because one of my great friends from college and previous roommate is one of the most amazing photographers I have ever seen. We didn't look anywhere else, we immediately chose <a href="http://racheltokarski.com/" target="_blank">Rachel Tokarski Photography</a>.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hl_CuvgEgAo/U1kmrhS1PNI/AAAAAAAAA_Y/o_qOsqzKS30/s1600/10150616_772131007816_5984063333738929987_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hl_CuvgEgAo/U1kmrhS1PNI/AAAAAAAAA_Y/o_qOsqzKS30/s1600/10150616_772131007816_5984063333738929987_n.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me and Rach on the Big Day!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
She did everything for us from engagement photos to bridal portraits and finally capturing our big day. This week, she posted on her photography blog some "teaser" photos from our wedding with the rest coming in mid-May. I was blown away by some of these and the emotion that she was able to capture. <br />
<br />
She really captured the entire process of this wedding. The long road from start to finish towards one of the biggest days of our lives. <br />
<br />
<div align="center">
She captured our <a href="http://racheltokarski.com/engagements/" target="_blank">engagement photos</a> through the streets of downtown Pittsburgh and the beautiful Omni William Penn Hotel Lobby. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fcvjuDfzmqM/U1kjwZVwe2I/AAAAAAAAA90/4gL8-8xAfuA/s1600/Mackenzie+and+Dwayne-23-2871641806-O.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fcvjuDfzmqM/U1kjwZVwe2I/AAAAAAAAA90/4gL8-8xAfuA/s1600/Mackenzie+and+Dwayne-23-2871641806-O.jpg" height="320" style="cursor: move;" unselectable="on" width="213" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2m1GgQ6qQ5w/U1kjwPFoqzI/AAAAAAAAA94/zvV2v3eKyiE/s1600/Mackenzie+and+Dwayne-20-2871641120-O.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2m1GgQ6qQ5w/U1kjwPFoqzI/AAAAAAAAA94/zvV2v3eKyiE/s1600/Mackenzie+and+Dwayne-20-2871641120-O.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DOfW0ho6dMY/U1kjt-CXcjI/AAAAAAAAA9s/lbd9s7L5Jls/s1600/Mackenzie+and+Dwayne-5-2871637359-O.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DOfW0ho6dMY/U1kjt-CXcjI/AAAAAAAAA9s/lbd9s7L5Jls/s1600/Mackenzie+and+Dwayne-5-2871637359-O.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div align="center">
She captured my Bridal Portraits at a beautiful, white apartment space perfect for artistic photos.</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sz76CFx3Zgc/U1kkb6ldjKI/AAAAAAAAA-E/KA0GbRE4n3g/s1600/Bridal+Shoot+B%2526W-12-3117650900-O.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sz76CFx3Zgc/U1kkb6ldjKI/AAAAAAAAA-E/KA0GbRE4n3g/s1600/Bridal+Shoot+B%2526W-12-3117650900-O.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cYz2M0GV_J4/U1kkcPtJfqI/AAAAAAAAA-I/w4kQkejvqNs/s1600/Bridal+Shoot-13-3117218759-O.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cYz2M0GV_J4/U1kkcPtJfqI/AAAAAAAAA-I/w4kQkejvqNs/s1600/Bridal+Shoot-13-3117218759-O.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FX2ElLmRgGk/U1kkb8_blYI/AAAAAAAAA-Q/RGJwXZlObwg/s1600/Bridal+Shoot-10-3117218215-O.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FX2ElLmRgGk/U1kkb8_blYI/AAAAAAAAA-Q/RGJwXZlObwg/s1600/Bridal+Shoot-10-3117218215-O.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
and finally, she gave us a preview of the photos from our big day! She didn't just take cookie cutter photos, she captured the emotion of everyone in the room. I am so excited to be able to see the rest of the photos.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uW_RXy5OKrc/U1kkyNSClyI/AAAAAAAAA-c/r0VPz5g8440/s1600/Waite+Preview-05.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uW_RXy5OKrc/U1kkyNSClyI/AAAAAAAAA-c/r0VPz5g8440/s1600/Waite+Preview-05.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My niece and flower girl</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QRi9_AHO6d4/U1kkyPzI1BI/AAAAAAAAA-g/reda90qqk_s/s1600/Waite+Preview-09.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QRi9_AHO6d4/U1kkyPzI1BI/AAAAAAAAA-g/reda90qqk_s/s1600/Waite+Preview-09.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My father seeing me for the first time on my wedding day</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bJa-r62iJGo/U1kkyVNgADI/AAAAAAAAA-s/Y0LYZA1Cz28/s1600/Waite+Preview-11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bJa-r62iJGo/U1kkyVNgADI/AAAAAAAAA-s/Y0LYZA1Cz28/s1600/Waite+Preview-11.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-f25A0i0JjpA/U1kkz-HNEaI/AAAAAAAAA_A/94SJ_HkByWo/s1600/Waite+Preview-16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-f25A0i0JjpA/U1kkz-HNEaI/AAAAAAAAA_A/94SJ_HkByWo/s1600/Waite+Preview-16.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dwayne and I just before the ceremony, not seeing each other but holding hands</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7HR3JguWLXY/U1kkyzc3IkI/AAAAAAAAA-o/6M95-Kqq88o/s1600/Waite+Preview-19.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7HR3JguWLXY/U1kkyzc3IkI/AAAAAAAAA-o/6M95-Kqq88o/s1600/Waite+Preview-19.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I love how she managed to capture the excitement after we said "I do"</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WWHhRX-gAhQ/U1kkz8DVD1I/AAAAAAAAA-8/N372M8SW900/s1600/Waite+Preview-20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WWHhRX-gAhQ/U1kkz8DVD1I/AAAAAAAAA-8/N372M8SW900/s1600/Waite+Preview-20.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">She was even able to take ideas that I saw on Pinterest and make them a reality!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-S25VmMFMa0E/U1kk0H2H27I/AAAAAAAAA-0/-U8q97D8h4c/s1600/Waite+Preview-25.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-S25VmMFMa0E/U1kk0H2H27I/AAAAAAAAA-0/-U8q97D8h4c/s1600/Waite+Preview-25.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">She was creative, thinking of new angles, artistic shots and ways to capture our moments outside of the box. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
You can see the rest of the preview photos on Rachels <a href="http://racheltokarski.com/blog/waite-wedding-the-club-at-shadow-lakes" target="_blank">blog</a>.<br />
<br />
<div align="center">
</div>
I cannot thank Rachel Tokarski enough for the effort and love she put into our wedding. If anyone is looking for a photographer. I highly recommend her for her passion, professionalism and investment in you. <br />
<br />
You can contact her through her <a href="http://racheltokarski.com/contact/" target="_blank">website</a> or <a href="https://www.facebook.com/rachel.tokarski.photography" target="_blank">facebook</a> page.<br />
<br />
I can't wait to see the rest!<br />
<div align="center">
</div>
Mackenziehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05554702614108376478noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2858225610019595929.post-38173594864554194572014-04-22T09:38:00.002-04:002014-04-22T09:39:41.427-04:00The Wedding Dresses I Didn't ChooseHi All!<br />
<br />
I am so happy that I can blog about these photos I have been holding onto for months! Be prepared to see a lot of posts in the next few weeks about the wedding setup, the BIG DAY and our honeymoon. I have so much to share! But first, let's start at the beginning. <br />
<br />
When I was searching for a wedding dress I made the decision early on that I didn't want to look at more than 5 places. My thought was that if I didn't set a limit for myself, than I would always be wondering "well I wonder if the next place will have something I like better?" and I would never find anything. So, I set the limit at 3-5 visits and I found a lot of dresses to choose from. Some good. Some bad.<br />
<br />
The first stop was with my bridesmaid Kat, friend Nicole and my now sister-in-laws to a bridal boutique in Uptown Charlotte called <a href="http://haydenolivia.com/" target="_blank">Hayden</a> Olivia Boutique. I was a beautiful place that you needed an appointment to get into. I think every girl should have an opportunity to go to a place like this and get pampered every once in a while. Unfortunately, I realized that a lot of the dresses were out of my price range but that didn't stop me from trying them on! This boutique held one of a kind dresses but a lot of them were not for me. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_KSCtAa0blo/U1ZvMzVo0ZI/AAAAAAAAA6k/mVDIadGz8Wc/s1600/photo+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_KSCtAa0blo/U1ZvMzVo0ZI/AAAAAAAAA6k/mVDIadGz8Wc/s1600/photo+1.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_tgmmf2FFwI/U1ZvM4DRAoI/AAAAAAAAA6o/MJ-t7xxIplM/s1600/photo+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_tgmmf2FFwI/U1ZvM4DRAoI/AAAAAAAAA6o/MJ-t7xxIplM/s1600/photo+2.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uQpEhhvE2XI/U1ZvL8ppgeI/AAAAAAAAA6c/TjitxhWRaFg/s1600/photo+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uQpEhhvE2XI/U1ZvL8ppgeI/AAAAAAAAA6c/TjitxhWRaFg/s1600/photo+3.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-en220kb4o9c/U1ZvMXGSqGI/AAAAAAAAA6g/1hS9is2q3c4/s1600/photo+4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-en220kb4o9c/U1ZvMXGSqGI/AAAAAAAAA6g/1hS9is2q3c4/s1600/photo+4.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-y7VlViF7tEs/U1ZvNOvLdTI/AAAAAAAAA60/8C3Qpoi7BqA/s1600/photo+5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-y7VlViF7tEs/U1ZvNOvLdTI/AAAAAAAAA60/8C3Qpoi7BqA/s1600/photo+5.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--UiYoHtWsXw/U1ZvOnZFLQI/AAAAAAAAA7E/dbhcD7-eH8Q/s1600/photo+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--UiYoHtWsXw/U1ZvOnZFLQI/AAAAAAAAA7E/dbhcD7-eH8Q/s1600/photo+1.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IGEUyN5tSCo/U1ZvOAlgU_I/AAAAAAAAA68/nGPNUMB2cJc/s1600/photo+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IGEUyN5tSCo/U1ZvOAlgU_I/AAAAAAAAA68/nGPNUMB2cJc/s1600/photo+2.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CrTLABQlkCg/U1ZvO2s0ppI/AAAAAAAAA7M/ZgBig4lheAU/s1600/photo+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CrTLABQlkCg/U1ZvO2s0ppI/AAAAAAAAA7M/ZgBig4lheAU/s1600/photo+3.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VLlpDEOApJI/U1ZvOgUNVtI/AAAAAAAAA7I/2Z_kzVEPFJQ/s1600/photo+4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VLlpDEOApJI/U1ZvOgUNVtI/AAAAAAAAA7I/2Z_kzVEPFJQ/s1600/photo+4.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
We made a 2nd stop at David's Bridal but I did not like many of the things I found there at all! Not really even worth taking photos of.<br />
<br />
The final place we visited was a place in Concord named <a href="http://www.jilliansbride.com/" target="_blank">Jillian's Bridal Loft</a>. I loved it here. You were the only one in the store when you were trying on dresses and you had an individualized sales person who was lovely. <br />
<br />
There were several beautiful dresses here but it wasn't until the final dress I tried on that I truly found my winner. <br />
<br />
First the losers...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RS8l3z3KBU8/U1Zv18RoocI/AAAAAAAAA7o/t3x4JQHRQJA/s1600/photo+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RS8l3z3KBU8/U1Zv18RoocI/AAAAAAAAA7o/t3x4JQHRQJA/s1600/photo+3.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-o9CR4-gq5r4/U1Zv2abCzII/AAAAAAAAA74/YpTEd3q6bFA/s1600/photo+4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-o9CR4-gq5r4/U1Zv2abCzII/AAAAAAAAA74/YpTEd3q6bFA/s1600/photo+4.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tI2EBlD0uCA/U1Zv29SdRGI/AAAAAAAAA70/rlMyCF9pe6A/s1600/photo+5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tI2EBlD0uCA/U1Zv29SdRGI/AAAAAAAAA70/rlMyCF9pe6A/s1600/photo+5.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JRVs9-a4APY/U1Zv3nfRCvI/AAAAAAAAA8Q/z4fefawgImg/s1600/photo+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JRVs9-a4APY/U1Zv3nfRCvI/AAAAAAAAA8Q/z4fefawgImg/s1600/photo+1.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OpIjTNI0hzc/U1Zv3gJ9NdI/AAAAAAAAA8U/aFq2e6i8x2M/s1600/photo+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OpIjTNI0hzc/U1Zv3gJ9NdI/AAAAAAAAA8U/aFq2e6i8x2M/s1600/photo+2.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4THOpnJCq24/U1Zv3_g41tI/AAAAAAAAA8M/Er_c9GaykxI/s1600/photo+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4THOpnJCq24/U1Zv3_g41tI/AAAAAAAAA8M/Er_c9GaykxI/s1600/photo+3.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KYgMqrIoBLo/U1Zv4pDg-0I/AAAAAAAAA8s/Cc79aUwlBQU/s1600/photo+4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KYgMqrIoBLo/U1Zv4pDg-0I/AAAAAAAAA8s/Cc79aUwlBQU/s1600/photo+4.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6u5VKyvqr7I/U1Zv40mNq9I/AAAAAAAAA8g/CzK6W5G83wE/s1600/photo+5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6u5VKyvqr7I/U1Zv40mNq9I/AAAAAAAAA8g/CzK6W5G83wE/s1600/photo+5.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
This is where I found the winner though! I was able to buy a Soterro and Midgley gown a few sizes to big but they helped me to work with their seamstresses to get it down to my size. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ubeWTLbclb4/U1ZwlDowKLI/AAAAAAAAA84/srkODAEHq58/s1600/Bridal+Shoot-11-3117218532-O.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ubeWTLbclb4/U1ZwlDowKLI/AAAAAAAAA84/srkODAEHq58/s1600/Bridal+Shoot-11-3117218532-O.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EyFG73jrkiM/U1ZwlHqdkkI/AAAAAAAAA80/mDQXnrT-8Zs/s1600/Bridal+Shoot-12-3117218597-O.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EyFG73jrkiM/U1ZwlHqdkkI/AAAAAAAAA80/mDQXnrT-8Zs/s1600/Bridal+Shoot-12-3117218597-O.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YCeGCvMR5lg/U1ZwqAwDoVI/AAAAAAAAA9I/VVLwHvkt8PM/s1600/Bridal+Shoot-5-3117217569-O.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YCeGCvMR5lg/U1ZwqAwDoVI/AAAAAAAAA9I/VVLwHvkt8PM/s1600/Bridal+Shoot-5-3117217569-O.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Jvp7q12m1UA/U1Zwp7kH6TI/AAAAAAAAA9E/MF-ma6M9O1o/s1600/Bridal+Shoot-10-3117218215-O.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Jvp7q12m1UA/U1Zwp7kH6TI/AAAAAAAAA9E/MF-ma6M9O1o/s1600/Bridal+Shoot-10-3117218215-O.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
More to come later!!Mackenziehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05554702614108376478noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2858225610019595929.post-8889344977595517882014-04-02T10:16:00.000-04:002014-04-02T10:21:44.620-04:00Things I Have Learned Planning a Wedding Explained in Internet Memes<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YMhirP4KCYc/UzwWBrCgPGI/AAAAAAAAA30/6035esX-_s0/s1600/large.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YMhirP4KCYc/UzwWBrCgPGI/AAAAAAAAA30/6035esX-_s0/s1600/large.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
As my wedding planning winds down, I am finding that I have learned quite a few things in the process. These are things that I wish someone would have told me when we started or things that people did tell me that completely rang true. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong>You will realize how many absolutely amazing, hilarious and supportive people you know</strong></div>
<br />
If there is one thing that I have realized over the past year and a half of planning this event, it's that <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tCmzkpBorT8/UzwW1avhWhI/AAAAAAAAA4A/R2izNd2Sj0c/s1600/imagesCA50FNWE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tCmzkpBorT8/UzwW1avhWhI/AAAAAAAAA4A/R2izNd2Sj0c/s1600/imagesCA50FNWE.jpg" /></a></div>
things like this make you realize how absolutely wonderful the people are that you know. I have had co-workers, friends and family members go out of their way to do such amazingly wonderful things for Dwayne and I. They have thrown parties, given support and kind words, as well as, helping tremendously in the planning process. Some times it was just as easy as listening to me talk and making me laugh uncontrollably at something like my bachelorette party.<br />
<br />
At the end of the day, it's so important to remember how wonderful these people have been and let them know how much it is appreciated. Thank you cards, Thank you gifts, or even a simple phone call or text message can really make the difference.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong>Everyone will have their opinion so set your boundaries</strong></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ilnH0DVqd-Q/UzwXWLRvYUI/AAAAAAAAA4I/qGSSiojXF6w/s1600/dem-boundaries_c_2479111.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ilnH0DVqd-Q/UzwXWLRvYUI/AAAAAAAAA4I/qGSSiojXF6w/s1600/dem-boundaries_c_2479111.jpg" height="320" width="229" /></a></div>
A wedding is an exciting time for a lot of people in your life, not just you and your soon to be spouse. Your parents, his parents, friends - all are excited for you and will all have opinions on what your wedding should be. Its wonderful and a lot of times you will ask for and truly value the opinions of others but there are times you will feel aggravated at everyone's "2 cents". Sit down, just you and your fiancé, and discuss EXACTLY what you want your day to be as a couple and don't let anyone's opinions change that. Remember that the day is for the two of you and it should be what you want. (Within reason of course.) Figure out a way to respectfully thank people for their insight but be true to yourselves.<br />
<br />
Also, be firm in your decisions once you make them. If you said <u>No Kids</u>, than the answer is <u>No Kids</u>. If your budget is for 100 people, then Cousin John can't bring the girl he met at the movies last week and make it 101. (FYI, neither of us have a cousin John simply an example) I know that it seems like you are being inflexible but #1 you don't want to feel out of control of your own event and #2 if you let one person bend the rules than you may get animosity from others who don't get the same treatment. This is especially important when you are paying for your own wedding because adding people means additional expense and work in an already stressful situation. <br />
<br />
<div align="center">
<strong>Remove yourself from the "Negative Nancy's"</strong></div>
<div align="center">
<strong></strong> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GSB0YxCRMlE/UzwVmWVR_NI/AAAAAAAAA3s/fy4kHJH2jvo/s1600/negative+nancy.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GSB0YxCRMlE/UzwVmWVR_NI/AAAAAAAAA3s/fy4kHJH2jvo/s1600/negative+nancy.png" /></a></div>
<div align="left">
When you are getting married 99.9% of the people you meet will be over the moon for you. (I am so lucky to have a ton of those people who I love!) However, there are the very few "Negative Nancy's" that you will encounter. Negative Nancy's can be a few different types of people. These are the people who have maybe been married and divorced and hold a deep animosity towards marriage, telling your future hubby to "run while he can" or even questioning "why do people even get married in the first place?!" It might be the person who tells you all the reasons your wedding plans won't work or your ideas are stupid or not feasible. These are the ones that eventually give up at your ignorance of wedding planning, throw up their hands and say "ugh, whatever, it's your wedding..." because you had the audacity to suggest you might want to have dark colors for a spring wedding. </div>
<div align="left">
</div>
<div align="left">
Get away from these people because they will put a kink into a time that should otherwise be very fun and happy for you and your future spouse. Don't let anyone Negative Nancy's get in your way! </div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
<strong>Your vendors will assume you are 3 seconds away from erupting like a volcano</strong></div>
<div align="center">
<strong></strong> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5e10P4Yx5xs/UzwbNnNUskI/AAAAAAAAA4g/94C6sGVjX0k/s1600/44532364.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5e10P4Yx5xs/UzwbNnNUskI/AAAAAAAAA4g/94C6sGVjX0k/s1600/44532364.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a></div>
<div align="left">
I have tried very hard to ensure I am respectful of all of our vendors and their time, even when they weren't always with me. However, the one thing I noticed was that all of our vendors were in, what seemed like, a constant state of "calming." They were very quick to reassure me or use calming language like "Oh but please don't worry... we will make sure that everything is perfect" or " Take a breath, I know this is stressful but we will take care of it." <br />
<br />
This happened when I wasn't showing signs of stress or hadn't even spoken with them for months. I even had to reassure a few people "I know everything is fine.. I was just calling to see how you would like to take our payment? Can I pay using Paypal?" After a few calls, most of my vendors relaxed and even made comments like "You don't seem stressed out at all, you are pretty calm for a bride." </div>
<div align="left">
</div>
<div align="left">
It bothered me at first because I didn't like to be treated as though I was 3 seconds away from erupting when I was actually quite calm and trying very hard to be respectful and organized but then I realized something. These poor people probably deal with Bridezillas and Groomzillas EVERYDAY! They have been screamed at, cancelled on and probably are used to having to gush over people to ensure there are no meltdowns. I noticed that they were much happier to work with a Bride who was calm, organized and together. So, I would suggest keeping your phone calls, emails and contacts to the minimum that you need and making sure that you are efficient and organized with them. I think it helps all parties involved. </div>
<div align="center">
<strong></strong> </div>
<div align="center">
<strong>It is 100% true that it will go fast</strong></div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rgs_ULFNuug/UzwYecP0FVI/AAAAAAAAA4U/bEv7ectkvk4/s1600/afadfasdfasd.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rgs_ULFNuug/UzwYecP0FVI/AAAAAAAAA4U/bEv7ectkvk4/s1600/afadfasdfasd.png" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
When we got engaged, everyone said to us "enjoy it, it will go so fast!" and they were 100% correct. I can't believe how quickly this time has gone and now we are only 10 days away from the main event. It seems like we just got engaged a few months ago and now all the planning is finished and it's time to take the plunge. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Take a minute to enjoy the process, enjoy your friends and allow yourself to indulge in the once in a lifetime opportunity. Of course, don't go overboard but allow yourself to have a fun weekend at the beach with your friends for your bachelorette or allow yourself a night on the town after a hard week of getting stuff done. </div>
<br />
So basically, make the type of wedding that your husband or wife will look back on with you and have nothing but fond memories. Mackenziehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05554702614108376478noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2858225610019595929.post-39554534076895514902014-03-25T09:15:00.001-04:002014-03-25T09:15:27.987-04:00Today is Cerebral Paley Awareness Day - Will You Dedicate it to Caleb?Hello everyone!<br />
Running for my buddy Caleb and his family these last weeks has been amazingly inspiring, eye-opening and fulfilling. I have found myself using him and his strength as an example of how to encourage people not to "sweat the small stuff" and continue to smile. If this brave little man can smile, laugh and light up the lives of his family members considering what he deals with everyday, than of course we can too! For those who don't know about my match up with Caleb, read my post <a href="http://fitnessnat.blogspot.com/2014/02/i-run-for-caleb-will-you.html" target="_blank">here</a> explaining. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6ngMRYqNZgk/UxT4inUgseI/AAAAAAAAAzw/HYGMYkJrinA/s1600/asdfasdfasdfasd.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6ngMRYqNZgk/UxT4inUgseI/AAAAAAAAAzw/HYGMYkJrinA/s1600/asdfasdfasdfasd.jpeg" height="320" width="239" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XfuSY958Rbg/UxT4imTaTlI/AAAAAAAAAz0/Y2YhQERTWWE/s1600/image.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XfuSY958Rbg/UxT4imTaTlI/AAAAAAAAAz0/Y2YhQERTWWE/s1600/image.jpeg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
Caleb was born with asthma, a seizure disorder, PVL and <em><u>Cerebral Palsy.</u></em><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-A8F5boMTD6s/UzF2F3xpA2I/AAAAAAAAA2c/Xf56zduSrW8/s1600/T89-00893_Green_Awareness_Ribbon_TeammatePOD_prod.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-A8F5boMTD6s/UzF2F3xpA2I/AAAAAAAAA2c/Xf56zduSrW8/s1600/T89-00893_Green_Awareness_Ribbon_TeammatePOD_prod.png" height="200" width="95" /></a>Today, <strong>March 25th</strong>, is Cerebral Palsy Awareness Day. Cerebral palsy is a disorder of movement, muscle tone or posture that is caused by an insult to the immature, developing brain, most often before birth.In general, cerebral palsy causes impaired movement associated with exaggerated reflexes, floppiness or rigidity of the limbs and trunk, abnormal posture, involuntary movements, unsteadiness of walking, or some combination of these. (Definition directly from the Mayo Clinic)<br />
<br />
Cerebral palsy awareness is signified with a green ribbon and so I was hoping that I could get some other people in the act of dedicating their workouts and runs to Caleb today! My goal is to get 5 miles in for him and to get some other people who have the blessing of physical fitness and ability to dedicate some miles to him also!<br />
<br />
I even managed to spread the word about Caleb and Cerebral Palsy Awareness around work and everyone was getting into the act!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SDe1CO1_6xo/UzGBIU7S3hI/AAAAAAAAA24/yGoP0mJDYs4/s1600/asd.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SDe1CO1_6xo/UzGBIU7S3hI/AAAAAAAAA24/yGoP0mJDYs4/s1600/asd.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-u5sQghPhro8/UzGBIcL8GsI/AAAAAAAAA2s/BkMA6HTdak0/s1600/dfadsaf.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-u5sQghPhro8/UzGBIcL8GsI/AAAAAAAAA2s/BkMA6HTdak0/s1600/dfadsaf.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UIbbuQ2Lkf0/UzGBIeOYIVI/AAAAAAAAA2w/8ENSd6JRLh4/s1600/dfad.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UIbbuQ2Lkf0/UzGBIeOYIVI/AAAAAAAAA2w/8ENSd6JRLh4/s1600/dfad.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-w8xN-D5sKmo/UzGBIwHbsfI/AAAAAAAAA20/jQV3QQIE3bE/s1600/ewrwe.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-w8xN-D5sKmo/UzGBIwHbsfI/AAAAAAAAA20/jQV3QQIE3bE/s1600/ewrwe.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bSuwlxDCXJs/UzGBJPRQ-lI/AAAAAAAAA3c/KdemyUnSJAQ/s1600/werase.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bSuwlxDCXJs/UzGBJPRQ-lI/AAAAAAAAA3c/KdemyUnSJAQ/s1600/werase.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0ZJh9eiRFz4/UzGBJf4_AaI/AAAAAAAAA3M/h4uMfWpZSzo/s1600/werew.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0ZJh9eiRFz4/UzGBJf4_AaI/AAAAAAAAA3M/h4uMfWpZSzo/s1600/werew.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ndDNQ5GDAeU/UzGBJjYxPqI/AAAAAAAAA3I/cipP7u-BCkY/s1600/werwe.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ndDNQ5GDAeU/UzGBJjYxPqI/AAAAAAAAA3I/cipP7u-BCkY/s1600/werwe.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
For those friends on the IRun4 site that haven't been matched with a buddy yet, perhaps you can dedicate your time today!Mackenziehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05554702614108376478noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2858225610019595929.post-36220964584637118772014-03-18T16:55:00.000-04:002014-03-18T16:55:44.108-04:00The Warby Parker Winner and the 4 Week Wedding Countdown!Hi everyone,<br />
<br />
Ok so my last post warranted a lot of responses from my friends and it was a tight race between two styles but at the end of the day, one style won out with the most support. <br />
<br />
The winner is...<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kPt0e54rqkM/UyN2gqwbJdI/AAAAAAAAA00/xZHoJ8L9IP8/s1600/snapshot-005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kPt0e54rqkM/UyN2gqwbJdI/AAAAAAAAA00/xZHoJ8L9IP8/s1600/snapshot-005.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">REECE!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
These are pretty much the same style I have always had but they were my favorite too. What can I say? I know what I like! These should be here within the week and I am really happy to not have to wear my crappy, bent ones from 8th grade anymore. <br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><u>Wedding Update</u></strong></div>
<br />
So, we are down to only 25 days until the wedding and I have to say that it's a stressful time. Of course, anyone who has planned a wedding before warned me of this already. It's a game of trying to remember everything while slowly running out of time to get it all done. There are just so many small, tiny details that you want to make sure you get done so that everyone has a great time. <br />
<br />
We are moving right along though. I am happy to say that we are slowly getting the last few RSVP's in now. I now feel the pain of every person that I waited until the last minute to RSVP to. To anyone that I have done this to, I sincerely apologize. We are trying to track down about 12 people for answers still but I am sure we will get there. <br />
<br />
At least I felt like we had pretty much everyone so I finally got to design our place cards! It was relaxing to get this one off the list because I had fun designing them. What do you think?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ve-0hJwYzlU/Uyis1SlKYPI/AAAAAAAAA1w/SqIZaH1IA6c/s1600/photo+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ve-0hJwYzlU/Uyis1SlKYPI/AAAAAAAAA1w/SqIZaH1IA6c/s1600/photo+1.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hQWKatX0u5M/Uyis1TokCaI/AAAAAAAAA10/gY5_10telo8/s1600/photo+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hQWKatX0u5M/Uyis1TokCaI/AAAAAAAAA10/gY5_10telo8/s1600/photo+2.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I also was able to finalize the programs which I hope to get printed this weekend since my mom informed me that there is no Kinko's anywhere near her to print them in Pittsburgh. They are 6 pages long - I may have gone a little overboard : / Oops! They are filled with fun things to keep our guests preoccupied while they are waiting. If people weren't being silly, it just wouldn't be our wedding.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-c3BjlOrULV4/Uyivd2RB1II/AAAAAAAAA2M/yAZyCIaskgo/s1600/img-thing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-c3BjlOrULV4/Uyivd2RB1II/AAAAAAAAA2M/yAZyCIaskgo/s1600/img-thing.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thanks for the idea Pinterest!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I finalized the rehearsal dinner and set up meetings with my photographer and the venue the week of the wedding. Probably the best part of the week was that I got some new clothes for the beach and I finally decided it was okay to spend some money on a new bathing suit for the honeymoon. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Dwayne and I also worked on getting the music together for our ceremony. This was one of the easier decisions that we had out of the way pretty early and I can't wait to hear it all put together. We are really putting our own personalities into our ceremony music and going non-traditional which makes me super excited. It will be a surprise to all the attendees, I will let you all know once the wedding is over. I don't want to ruin the fun!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<strong> <u>Health and Fitness Update</u></strong></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
While I will admit that most of my brain space has been filled with issues relating to the wedding and creating way more lists than one human being could ever possibly need, I have still been trying to focus on my health up to the wedding. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I have mostly been using exercise as a way to combat the stress of it all. Mostly, I have been working on ways to get ready for all the photos that we are going to take. So, now that we are within that 4 week countdown - I have been trying to focus on some things I don't normally worry about.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
1. <u>Teeth whitening</u> - I refuse to spend $50 on the strips so I actually changed toothpastes and talked to my dentist about more natural ways to whiten my teeth. He said that brushing once a week with a mixture of hydrogen peroxide and baking soda can make a real difference. I have been trying it and I think its a great and much more economical way to get this done. I have also stopped drinking coffee and attempted to drink red wine through a straw last night : ) I do have my priorities. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
2. <u>Skin Care</u> - I have tried desperately to take better care of my skin. Washing my face before bed, moisturizing more often. It's hard for me because, well, I am lazy at night. My end goal is really the pillow and if there are 5 steps in the way of that - it's disheartening. I am trying though, I swear!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
3. <u>Stress</u> - I have been trying (sometimes totally unsuccessfully) to remain as stress free as possible as this day gets closer. Exercising, taking opportunities to just do nothing and I have actually invested in...drum roll please.. a mouth guard. My dentist told me that the stress of my job over the past few years has made me clench my teeth at night which are causing them to crack. The wedding is also not helping in this department. If I don't get a night guard, I will get a root canal which sounds awful. So I am going ultra stylish and picked one up. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
4.<u> Exercising</u> - With the wedding so close, it's becoming imperative that I don't gain or lose any weight so that my dress fits correctly. I have been playing a game of trying to tone up while not losing weight or adding bulk. I think it's going well so far with a mix of cardio and functional weight lifting. Yay kettle bells! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
So, if anyone has any helpful hints or stories about what it was like the 3-4 weeks before their wedding, I would love to hear them! Comment below and share!</div>
Mackenziehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05554702614108376478noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2858225610019595929.post-9148849501424503532014-03-14T17:53:00.000-04:002014-03-14T18:04:34.723-04:00Help me pick my new look! Warby Parker Glasses SelectionHi lovely blog readers! Happy Friday!<br />
<br />
This blog is about health and fitness but that sometimes can mean something different than exercise or healthy eating. What about taking care of the other parts of your body? Your ears or eyes? Today's post will be about exactly that- a special new treat for the health of my eyes!<br />
<br />
A couple of my friends have told me about this site to buy new glasses called <a href="http://www.warbyparker.com/" target="_blank">Warby Parker</a>. Warby Parker helps you to find inexpensive glasses online to try on at home for free. You decide what styles you like to keep and send the rest back. <br />
<br />
Their website explains who they are like this:<br />
<br />
<em><span style="color: #674ea7;">"Warby Parker was founded with a rebellious spirit and a lofty objective: to create boutique-quality, classically crafted eyewear at a revolutionary price point."</span></em><br />
<br />
I searched the whole site trying to force myself to stay away from the style that I always gravitate to-black frames, rectangular shape. I looked at different sizes, shapes and colors. I am branching out people! I saw that the ones I liked ranged from $95-$135 for frames and prescription lenses. For anyone who knows the terribleness that is vision insurance, seeing a cost that low is a welcome development. As I read more about the company, I realized that I can also feel really great about buying from them because for every pair of glasses you buy, they will donate a pair to someone in need! Say what!?<br />
<br />
What a cool concept! I am in need of a new pair of glasses because a certain dog of mine, who shall remain nameless, ate mine a few months back. I am choosing to believe it's because he missed me but secretly I think it's because he was mad at me for leaving him alone for a few hours. Vindictive dogs, ya know? I got him back though as evidenced by his festive toe nail polish for St Pattys Day tomorrow. Mwaha!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9uTragE597c/UyN1qI8rQpI/AAAAAAAAA0E/PPt0-0310-Q/s1600/1016845_765351678646_1425524986_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9uTragE597c/UyN1qI8rQpI/AAAAAAAAA0E/PPt0-0310-Q/s1600/1016845_765351678646_1425524986_n.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eYAENearctY/UyN1qBMiyrI/AAAAAAAAA0A/PyLcdmWQlZ4/s1600/10007039_765351698606_499708401_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eYAENearctY/UyN1qBMiyrI/AAAAAAAAA0A/PyLcdmWQlZ4/s1600/10007039_765351698606_499708401_n.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So basically how it works is that you go on the site and pick up to 5 styles that you want shipped to your house for free with no prescription. You try them all and then choose the one you want and they will send you a new pair with the frame you like and your prescription! I have had the same style for a really long time and so I decided to try some styles that were a bit out of my comfort zone to see what I think. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I have five days to choose which one I want to keep. The race is on to pick my new style! Will you help? Comment below and let me know which ones you think I should choose!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Please excuse my awful hair and messy kitchen in the background. It's been a long week. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aD9yOyWBZ2Y/UyN2dxdA3iI/AAAAAAAAA0Q/VhLQguklKG8/s1600/snapshot-001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aD9yOyWBZ2Y/UyN2dxdA3iI/AAAAAAAAA0Q/VhLQguklKG8/s1600/snapshot-001.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Langston 102 style- Black Crystal</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This one is pretty close to my usual style- small, rectangular, thick black frames. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5IGlv3Qq1RU/UyN2fhvWTaI/AAAAAAAAA0o/y0Ck0Q2ZWog/s1600/snapshot-002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5IGlv3Qq1RU/UyN2fhvWTaI/AAAAAAAAA0o/y0Ck0Q2ZWog/s1600/snapshot-002.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Baxter 730 - Pinot Noir Color</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
These are like nothing I have ever had before but I am kind of digging them! I also like the name, reminds me of Anchorman. "Baxter, you know I don't speak Spanish! In English please!"</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OwZOzKPeqJI/UyN2fguMRVI/AAAAAAAAA0s/jjaL8y0llVA/s1600/snapshot-003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OwZOzKPeqJI/UyN2fguMRVI/AAAAAAAAA0s/jjaL8y0llVA/s1600/snapshot-003.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Colton Rev 102 - Black Crystal</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Sorry for the terrible glare on these ones!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RpeqQ0jDnWo/UyN2fsByGLI/AAAAAAAAA0g/XjKS3kWEsdc/s1600/snapshot-004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RpeqQ0jDnWo/UyN2fsByGLI/AAAAAAAAA0g/XjKS3kWEsdc/s1600/snapshot-004.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Walker 200- Whiskey Tortoise</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I really liked the shape of these ones and they are tortoise colored which is quite a step from my normal black. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kPt0e54rqkM/UyN2gqwbJdI/AAAAAAAAA00/xZHoJ8L9IP8/s1600/snapshot-005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kPt0e54rqkM/UyN2gqwbJdI/AAAAAAAAA00/xZHoJ8L9IP8/s1600/snapshot-005.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Reece 350- Navy</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Pretty close to my old ones except in a different color. Navy!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hoL4cZsibEY/UyN3yohJyQI/AAAAAAAAA1c/8q0v1FkJT5Y/s1600/Captured+Videos.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hoL4cZsibEY/UyN3yohJyQI/AAAAAAAAA1c/8q0v1FkJT5Y/s1600/Captured+Videos.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Alrighty! Chances are I will be stuck with these for quite some time, unless Hero gets to them again. So! I would love to hear your opinions on which ones you like best! Comment below and I will let you know which ones I pick based on your suggestions in 5 days! : )Mackenziehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05554702614108376478noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2858225610019595929.post-32634768138137735212014-03-10T09:15:00.000-04:002014-03-10T16:55:04.383-04:00Bachelorette Party! 33 Days and Counting<br />
Hello all!<br />
<br />
I am so pumped to write this post because I get to tell you about my wonderful bachelorette party! There is officially 33 days left until the wedding and I could barely contain how excited I was to have my bachelorette party this weekend at the beach.<br />
<br />
My friend Elena, who I have known since college, has a beach house that she was kind enough to let us use and so on Friday night we packed up the car, got some 90's jams and took the 4 hour drive from Charlotte to the beach. The weekend wouldn't have been complete without picking up my best friend and Maid of Honor, April, who I was ecstatic could make it down. I feel so lucky to get to see her so much lately! We have lived in different states since college ended which makes me sad but I was so happy to spend the weekend with her!<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://scontent-a-lga.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-frc3/t1/1970613_764609361256_745491206_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" border="0" class="spotlight" height="320" src="https://scontent-a-lga.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-frc3/t1/1970613_764609361256_745491206_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We got to the beach house and my other friends Kat and Elena has the place decorated for our arrival.</div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-d-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/t1/1959305_764610738496_78277812_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" border="0" class="spotlight" height="240" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-d-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/t1/1959305_764610738496_78277812_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Including my favorite snack-chocolate covered pretzels!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-b-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn2/t1/1920054_764610753466_437124129_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" border="0" class="spotlight" height="320" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-b-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn2/t1/1920054_764610753466_437124129_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
After everyone arrived, we all had drinks and dinner at the house to get to know one another and catch up. We were all pretty tired from the drive - I had friends come in from Charlotte and Raleigh which is 3-4 hours to the beach so we were all a little exhausted.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It was great because everyone felt like they already knew each other because of all the stories they had heard. I was so pumped for Kat and April to meet each other!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://scontent-b-lga.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn2/t1/1525394_764610713546_990377917_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" border="0" class="spotlight" height="200" src="https://scontent-b-lga.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn2/t1/1525394_764610713546_990377917_n.jpg" width="150" /></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="200" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-h-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-frc3/t1/1975073_764610773426_59637451_n.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="150" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">April and Kat finally meet!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="150" src="https://scontent-a-lga.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/t1/1780790_764610848276_771553691_n.jpg" width="200" /><img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="150" src="https://scontent-a-lga.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn1/t1/1017135_764610813346_1143968886_n.jpg" width="200" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Of course, we couldn't end the night without an Oscar Selfie attempt either.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="320" src="https://scontent-a-lga.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn2/t1/1902888_10103436376815248_705678173_n.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I was Bradley Cooper. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The next day was the main event and Kat and Elena had planned for us to have a private yoga session at a studio on the beach. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="200" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-frc3/t1/1557436_764610339296_1797645429_n.jpg" width="150" /><img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="200" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-d-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn2/t1/1888759_764610369236_1521438279_n.jpg" width="150" /><img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="200" src="https://scontent-b-lga.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn1/t1/1013788_764610394186_1748793741_n.jpg" width="150" /><img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="200" src="https://scontent-b-lga.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/t1/1508547_764610429116_1312790866_n.jpg" width="150" /><img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="200" src="https://scontent-b-lga.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/t1/1187040_764610459056_1384224535_n.jpg" width="150" /><img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="240" src="https://scontent-a-lga.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/t1/1969368_764610274426_955617305_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It was an awesome relaxing vinyassa class in a bright studio. An hour of friends relaxing, breathing and sharing in the power of yoga. At the end of the class we did a 5 minute meditation on the ground and the instructor came over to me with lavender oil her hands and put pressure on my shoulders and neck - I swear I almost fell asleep! So relaxing! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I did wear my I RUN 4 CALEB tshirt also and kept him and his family updated on my trip since I wouldn't be running. We all showed our support for little Caleb and his plight for health!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="320" src="https://scontent-a-lga.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn2/t1/1899877_10103437360334268_754659957_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="240" src="https://scontent-a-lga.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn2/t1/1979516_764379357186_59862326_n.jpg" width="320" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
After the class, we walked down to the beach to see the waves and take it all in. The water was a bit too cold to wade into but the beach scene was so relaxing. The fresh air and sound of the waves was the perfect way to end the class. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="320" src="https://scontent-a-lga.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn1/t1/1964815_764609960056_629282009_n.jpg" width="240" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Afterwards we went and got brunch at this lovely little beach side restaurant. We all ordered Mimosa's and they were probably 95% champagne and 5% orange juice which I think we were all okay with : )</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The food was amazing! They had salt and pepper chips which are the best kind of potato chip, hands down.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="320" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-g-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/t1/66977_764609770436_1108001659_n.jpg" width="240" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We spent the rest of the day walking around the downtown Wilmington area which had some really cute little shops and resell stores. It was a great way to spend the day and with the weather being 70 degrees, walking around was such a pleasure. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="200" src="https://scontent-b-lga.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-frc3/t1/1939762_764609535906_1806638976_n.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="150" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This was the best sign we saw</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="150" src="https://scontent-b-lga.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/t1/1897911_764609705566_1359882450_n.jpg" width="200" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We even found a dog store where I could get some treats for the little man!</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="320" src="https://scontent-b-lga.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-frc1/t1.0-9/10013354_764609456066_328023766_n.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A terrible pun</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="200" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-f-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/t1/1896739_764609505966_2065409334_n.jpg" width="150" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Around 6 we all got ready to go out for dinner and drinks to cap the weekend and this was the part I was looking forward to the most! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="200" src="https://scontent-b-lga.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn2/t1/1185362_764609206566_78740357_n.jpg" width="150" /><img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="200" src="https://scontent-b-lga.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn2/t1/1920314_764609246486_108368982_n.jpg" width="150" /><img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="200" src="https://scontent-b-lga.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/t1/1911815_764609291396_263560992_n.jpg" width="150" /><img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="200" src="https://scontent-a-lga.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-frc3/t1/1970613_764609361256_745491206_n.jpg" width="150" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We had dinner at a place called Circa 1920 and it was a tapas, family style restaurant with some of the best food I have ever had in my life. We had a waiter who was trying to be funny - it didn't really work but the effort was there. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="240" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-c-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-frc3/t1/1743459_764609141696_1228675377_n.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sorry for the dark and blurry photo</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We hit a bunch of the local bars and met some interesting people. We even found one place that had a photo booth so of course, we had to partake.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="320" src="https://scontent-a-lga.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn2/t1/1978845_764614600756_202114976_n.jpg" width="240" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
In the morning we headed back to Charlotte and I had to get April back to the airport which made me really sad because I value our time together so much but I know that I will get to see her again in 33 days for the BIG EVENT! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The fact that these girls came out and were willing to spend their time celebrating and supporting me meant more to me than I could say. Sometimes I have a hard time letting people know what they mean to me and that their efforts are so appreciated. That is why this blog post is so necessary because everyone of them needs to know how much I value them in my life and how their support of my marriage to Dwayne means the world to me. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
To everyone that attended and helped make my bachelorette party special, I love you and I thank you so much for everything!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Mackenziehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05554702614108376478noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2858225610019595929.post-63215441983394028672014-03-03T16:50:00.003-05:002014-03-03T16:50:55.925-05:00Wedding Fever Update & an Update on Caleb!Hi everyone!<br />
<br />
We are officially, as of today, 40 days away from the Waite Wedding. I am getting so excited because everything is starting to come together and especially giddy because my bachelorette party is this weekend!<br />
<br />
My friend offered to allow us to use her families beach house in Wilmington for the weekend and so a group of 7 friends are heading to the beach on Friday. I am extra excited because my best friend since college and Maid of Honor April, is flying in from NYC! I pick her up from the airport and we are on our way to a weekend of fun!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="240" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-b-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/t1/6010_523611717466_2375952_n.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This photo pretty much sums up our friendship. <br />
<div align="left">
</div>
<br />
<div align="left">
</div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We have almost all of our RSVP's in and it's looking like we are going to end up with a pretty good crowd of folks! I can't wait to experience just how fun this day is going to be!<br />
<br />
I am sure after the bachelorette party, I am going to start going stir crazy because there will be no more little milestones along the way to look forward to. Instead, we will only have the BIG DAY to look forward to. Those are going to be a loooong 30 days!<br />
<br />
Luckily, one of the best things to do to burn off nervous energy is to exercise and I will be doing a lot of that in the next month to make sure I feel great on my wedding day. It would be nice if the weather would cooperate a little bit more because Charlotte is playing the game where it can't decide if it wants to be nice or terrible outside. So, one day it will be 70 and sunny (can't complain about that) and then the next day it will be 30 and raining. (Lame) But, at least I got a chance to get a good run in this weekend!<br />
<br />
On Sunday, my running buddy Catie and I went for an easy run on East Blvd in Charlotte. It's flat and relatively easy to run and we got in a solid 3.6 miles for my buddy Caleb!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BUZS4biEbd8/UxT4iopVHRI/AAAAAAAAAzs/89EYo26ZNdg/s1600/asdfasdfadsf.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BUZS4biEbd8/UxT4iopVHRI/AAAAAAAAAzs/89EYo26ZNdg/s1600/asdfasdfadsf.jpeg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
For those of who didn't read my last post, I recently was matched up with a little boy named Caleb through IRUN4Michael.com. This site matches physically disabled people with runners who will dedicate their exercise to them! Catie is waiting to be matched too and we had a great run in honor of Caleb!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6ngMRYqNZgk/UxT4inUgseI/AAAAAAAAAzw/HYGMYkJrinA/s1600/asdfasdfasdfasd.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6ngMRYqNZgk/UxT4inUgseI/AAAAAAAAAzw/HYGMYkJrinA/s1600/asdfasdfasdfasd.jpeg" height="320" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">He is even cheering me on with this sweet new tshirt!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XfuSY958Rbg/UxT4imTaTlI/AAAAAAAAAz0/Y2YhQERTWWE/s1600/image.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XfuSY958Rbg/UxT4imTaTlI/AAAAAAAAAz0/Y2YhQERTWWE/s1600/image.jpeg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Luckily, I have one too!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I can't wait to update you all through the next month up until the big day. We could use all the good thoughts we can get that everything goes smoothly!<br />
<br />
If anyone has any advice on things to remember, do, try, etc. 30 days out from your wedding, I would appreciate it in the comments!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Mackenziehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05554702614108376478noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2858225610019595929.post-53124266717755824102014-02-22T18:08:00.002-05:002014-02-22T18:08:39.891-05:00My Hike to Battle Cystic Fibrosis! Will you help save a life?Hello all!<br />
<br />
Today I am happy to say that I spent the day hiking 11 miles at South Mountain State Park with some pretty amazing people including, my good friend Stan. Dwayne and I have been friends with Stan and his wife Krista for several years now and for the past few years, he has been asking us to come out and participate in his training hikes at some of the local mountains around Charlotte. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UVxMTRmUI3g/Uwko22H8uGI/AAAAAAAAAyY/wX1bxCudT-k/s1600/IMG_1275%5B1%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UVxMTRmUI3g/Uwko22H8uGI/AAAAAAAAAyY/wX1bxCudT-k/s1600/IMG_1275%5B1%5D.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My friend Stan! Hike master!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
He is involved in these training hikes because in a few months he has an "extreme hike" that he participates in to help raise money to find a cure for Cystic Fibrosis. <br />
<br />
Stan became involved in the charity because he had a childhood friend die from Cystic Fibrosis. He dedicates a lot of time and effort to fundraising to fight this disease. Stan and his group of friends do the "Extreme Hike" every year to raise money to fight this terrible disease and for the <a href="http://www.cff.org/AboutCF/" target="_blank">Cystic Fibrosis Foundation</a>. By 'extreme' I mean that they hike 30 miles of the Appalachian Trail in one day! 30 Miles!<br />
<br />
<strong>What is Cystic Fibrosis?</strong><br />
<br />
<span class="Normal">Cystic fibrosis is an inherited chronic disease that affects the lungs and digestive system of about 30,000 children and adults in the United States (70,000 worldwide). A defective gene and its protein product cause the body to produce unusually thick, sticky mucus that:</span><br />
<ul>
<li><span class="Normal">clogs the lungs and leads to life-threatening lung infections; and</span></li>
<li><span class="Normal">obstructs the pancreas and stops natural enzymes from helping the body break down and absorb food.</span></li>
</ul>
<br />
Today I had the pleasure of joining them on a training hike and spent a beautiful Saturday with good people, fresh air and exercise. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-umfvlvXrCn0/Uwkqdum-9kI/AAAAAAAAAy8/o606o_kp8B0/s1600/IMG_1289%5B1%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-umfvlvXrCn0/Uwkqdum-9kI/AAAAAAAAAy8/o606o_kp8B0/s1600/IMG_1289%5B1%5D.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
We hiked 11 miles and, at times, it was pretty arduous! There were a lot of serious inclines and it took us about 4 hours to complete the training hike. Although, along the way there were some really beautiful sites to see. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-q9nF2craOgA/UwkpfV4nvtI/AAAAAAAAAyg/LLEh1Bpgusc/s1600/IMG_1280%5B1%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-q9nF2craOgA/UwkpfV4nvtI/AAAAAAAAAyg/LLEh1Bpgusc/s1600/IMG_1280%5B1%5D.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sQufaFO5MFM/Uwkpn92t4_I/AAAAAAAAAyo/sH2s6Q2Pyrk/s1600/IMG_1285%5B1%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sQufaFO5MFM/Uwkpn92t4_I/AAAAAAAAAyo/sH2s6Q2Pyrk/s1600/IMG_1285%5B1%5D.JPG" height="320" style="cursor: move;" unselectable="on" width="240" /></a><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QFU5Z1sDRUo/Uwkppip0umI/AAAAAAAAAyw/oPGjLuDExyQ/s1600/IMG_1277%5B1%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QFU5Z1sDRUo/Uwkppip0umI/AAAAAAAAAyw/oPGjLuDExyQ/s1600/IMG_1277%5B1%5D.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Probably one of the best sites of the entire day was seeing a dog riding a horse. Seriously, that really happened. I have photo evidence.</div>
<div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7dWoMMe42Tw/Uwkqu_2hIuI/AAAAAAAAAzE/w6Elv4UQQ_s/s1600/IMG_1288%5B1%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7dWoMMe42Tw/Uwkqu_2hIuI/AAAAAAAAAzE/w6Elv4UQQ_s/s1600/IMG_1288%5B1%5D.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Seriously, it's a dog riding a horse!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
At the end of this day, I am tired, stiff and will probably be sore but it was such a great experience and I am glad I met some of these people. <br />
<br />
Stan is currently trying to raise $3,000 for the BIG HIKE and he is very grateful for any donations that people would be willing to give. If you want to donate for this big hike or learn more about the charity hike, <a href="http://www.cff.org/LWC/dsp_DonationPage.cfm?idEvent=26355&idUser=238649" target="_blank">click here</a> to see his fundraising page!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-e_ZmYQexLr0/Uwkt01AX7LI/AAAAAAAAAzQ/915YZsnkTwU/s1600/IMG_1284%5B1%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-e_ZmYQexLr0/Uwkt01AX7LI/AAAAAAAAAzQ/915YZsnkTwU/s1600/IMG_1284%5B1%5D.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Good Luck Stan!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Mackenziehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05554702614108376478noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2858225610019595929.post-20571721289514629192014-02-18T08:50:00.000-05:002014-02-18T08:50:53.569-05:00I Run for Caleb! Will you?Hello all!<br />
I am so excited to share this blog post with you. After two months of sitting on a waiting list and with 53 days until the wedding, I have finally been matched with a buddy to run for through <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/irunformichael/" target="_blank">I RUN 4 MICHAEL!</a><br />
<br />
IRUN4Michael is a non-profit organization that pairs runners with special needs children and adults. These people have physical disabilities that don't allow them to be able to run themselves and so, as a runner, you dedicate all your runs to them. You tell them every time you complete a run through the facebook page and they support you through pictures and posts and you support them through doctor's appointments, illnesses and celebrate their milestones. The best part is, when you receive race "swag" you can send it to them! I love this idea, instead of having a drawer full of race tshirts that I don't wear, I can get one in the size for my buddy and it can really mean something!<br />
<br />
I knew that the time was getting close as I saw my name move down the waiting list and finally on Sunday night, I was matched with an amazing little boy named Caleb. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Felecia King Baker's photo." class="_46-i img" height="211" src="https://scontent-b-atl.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash4/t1/s180x540/5521_10201616508954430_364109932_n.jpg" style="left: 0px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; top: 0px;" width="180" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">How adorable and strong is this little man?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Caleb is 8 years old. He was born 3 months early, weighed 1 lb 9.9 oz. Caleb has been diagnosed with Periventricular Leukomalacia (PVL) (basically brain damage), cerebral palsy, asthma and a severe seizure disorder. Caleb is wheelchair bound but he can scoot on the floor on his belly and gets around pretty good. He can say about 30 words and he is learning to use his iPad to speak for him.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I posted my first run for Caleb yesterday putting in 3.5 miles on the treadmill and I couldn't wait to post and tell him. Even my friend Jordan got in the act, dedicating her night at FlyWheel to Caleb!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Hi Caleb! I am fighting off a cold and am sore from yoga yesterday but I couldn't wait to run for you! I finished 3.5 treadmill miles at 9:13 per mile before my fiancé and I go to a bridal show tonight! All of my friends already love you. My friend Jordan even dedicated her flywheel class to you tonight and came in first place for the first time! Do you see your name there? You are an inspiration!" class="scaledImageFitWidth img" height="225" src="https://scontent-b-atl.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn2/t1/p75x225/1888687_760437516666_1192763227_n.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="398" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">TorqName:ForCaleb</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
His mom told me that they told the Doctor about Caleb's new running buddy and my heart melted. I cannot wait to learn more about this sweet little boy and have him push me to run further, faster and more often. Great motivation for the wedding and great motivation for my soul : )</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I have asked any friends, family and blog readers, to help me communicate with Caleb and show him that there are several people that know about him and care about his health. So, if you need some motivation to finish or just start a workout, think of Caleb cheering you on and send me a note or a picture and I will pass it on to the family. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Also, on March 15th, my fiancé and I will be doing our 1st 5k of the year and we are going to dedicate it to Caleb! The "<a href="http://racesonline.com/events/color-me-green-5k" target="_blank">Color Me Green 5k</a>" will be held in Charlotte in honor of St. Pattys Day and I intend on wearing an "I Run for Caleb" tshirt. Who wants to run with me?</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
Mackenziehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05554702614108376478noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2858225610019595929.post-37314976643688053922014-02-14T08:27:00.000-05:002014-02-14T08:27:03.029-05:00SnOMG hits Charlotte on Valentine's Day For all my northern friends, the thought of getting 6-8 inches of snow is a weekly, if not daily, occurrence. It wouldn't stop you from going to work, the gym, school, anything. In Charlotte, NC it is a little bit different.<br />
<br />
Dwayne and I have been snowed in for 3 days because a severe mixture of ice and snow hit the region dropping about 8 inches of snow with about 1/2 inch of ice layered in there which means that for the last 3 days I have worked from home. This certainly has its perks because I get to work all day in my pajamas, full access to the kitchen at all times, and that I don't have to go out in this mess!<br />
<br />
I also feel like my legs might atrophy because of lack of movement. Not being able to leave the house really puts a damper on your plans to work out. Don't these weather Gods know that I have a wedding in less than 2 months?! We have been trying to eat very healthy while we are trapped at home because there have been threats of power outages so all the perishable food (fruits and veggies) are being eaten first. Not a bad thing! <br />
<br />
We got plenty of exercise trying to sled ride down our street. It didn't work out so well because we didn't actually have sleds so we had to improvise!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-L1ihzMJrJOQ/Uv4ZDcBs7lI/AAAAAAAAAx0/cvw1J1L7xT0/s1600/1508623_759310021176_1814376976_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-L1ihzMJrJOQ/Uv4ZDcBs7lI/AAAAAAAAAx0/cvw1J1L7xT0/s1600/1508623_759310021176_1814376976_n.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I am sure that this weather is also putting a damper on a lot of valentines day plans with delivery folks not allowed out on the roads and restaurants all shut down. <br />
<br />
I think that my Valentine's Day present is getting to spend 3 days at home with my soon to by hubby and our lovely little pup. I love them with all my heart and I can't wait to make the family official in April. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oL23etfBfJk/Uv4Y9L8B_cI/AAAAAAAAAxw/9wL_MmsPvRs/s1600/1896839_759310061096_1425162831_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oL23etfBfJk/Uv4Y9L8B_cI/AAAAAAAAAxw/9wL_MmsPvRs/s1600/1896839_759310061096_1425162831_n.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-s0YeS8hoHiA/Uv4Y89JFlFI/AAAAAAAAAxs/48kW5IwRDG8/s1600/1507189_759309881456_817727833_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-s0YeS8hoHiA/Uv4Y89JFlFI/AAAAAAAAAxs/48kW5IwRDG8/s1600/1507189_759309881456_817727833_n.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
57 days until the wedding and counting down!!<br />
Mackenziehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05554702614108376478noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2858225610019595929.post-6262775940891317192014-02-10T10:54:00.001-05:002014-02-10T10:56:13.849-05:00Wedding Band Stress and Breakfast at Tiffany's Themed Bridal Shower!<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qzWKKY1o7aw/UvjvaSpijZI/AAAAAAAAAwg/ux2rFaz8v0Y/s1600/1898066_758433048636_1069901272_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qzWKKY1o7aw/UvjvaSpijZI/AAAAAAAAAwg/ux2rFaz8v0Y/s1600/1898066_758433048636_1069901272_n.jpg" height="200" width="150" /></a>Hi all,<br />
<br />
This weekend was exactly what I needed after a fairly stressful last week. I naively thought that my fiancé and I were going to make it through wedding planning process without any major stress because we gave ourselves so much time and neither of us are "high-maintenance" decision makers. Turns out, I was wrong! <br />
<br />
We are 61 days out from the BIG DAY and we found out last week that our event coordinator at our venue retired AND that our band was quitting all in the same day. Luckily, after a full 7 days of slightly freaking out, we found another band that we are really excited to have at our wedding that was available! PHEW!<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vSKKwSh9hY0/Uvjvagbr96I/AAAAAAAAAw8/Cvxh03ZHztE/s1600/252658_10101591721504278_1584966573_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vSKKwSh9hY0/Uvjvagbr96I/AAAAAAAAAw8/Cvxh03ZHztE/s1600/252658_10101591721504278_1584966573_n.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The two lovely ladies on Nicole's Big Day!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I had my final bridal shower with all my friends and soon to be new family members on Saturday. A huge thank you to my friends Nicole and Kat for putting together an amazingly themed party. Breakfast at Tiffany's! <br />
<br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bmOSAhmWFA8/UvjvZ9M0FlI/AAAAAAAAAwk/N9spTOGCqIs/s1600/1897986_758432988756_549468149_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bmOSAhmWFA8/UvjvZ9M0FlI/AAAAAAAAAwk/N9spTOGCqIs/s1600/1897986_758432988756_549468149_n.jpg" height="200" width="150" /></a>Everyone was told to wear pearls and get ready to have fancy snacks when they arrived. The room was decked out with beautiful decorations and tasty snacks!<br />
<br />
We had a great time and they even had a wall of photos of my fiancé and I throughout the years of our relationship. I felt really special and really loved. Especially as I was dressed as Audrey Hepburn from the original movie. (Well at least as well as I could)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aaeijMPIxYk/UvjvZ3ZGbvI/AAAAAAAAAwo/2MMnsWfa_Uk/s1600/1794773_10103353061669468_747226290_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aaeijMPIxYk/UvjvZ3ZGbvI/AAAAAAAAAwo/2MMnsWfa_Uk/s1600/1794773_10103353061669468_747226290_n.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
I definitely indulged in some yummy snacks while I was there and spent the day drinking Mimosa's. It was wonderful and exactly what I needed to de-stress after that little hiccup!<br />
<br />
One of my friends even made me a book of green smoothie recipes to try! I love green smoothies and make one at least 2-3 mornings during the week. I am so excited to try some of these new recipes!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Luddfr5z3Bw/Uvj1wjdtshI/AAAAAAAAAxM/ytDdt4swJ_w/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Luddfr5z3Bw/Uvj1wjdtshI/AAAAAAAAAxM/ytDdt4swJ_w/s1600/photo.JPG" height="200" width="150" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
On Sunday, I went on an excellent run with a new running buddy in McApline park. The goal was 4-5 miles and we ended up at 4.1 with an average pace of 8:45. Running with someone else always helps the workout fly by and it increases my speed. The first mile we ran in under 8 minutes. I wondered why I was so tired! <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--WlJc5nv1bE/Uvj2jdIEO1I/AAAAAAAAAxU/X_Yd1_LNvT0/s1600/photo.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--WlJc5nv1bE/Uvj2jdIEO1I/AAAAAAAAAxU/X_Yd1_LNvT0/s1600/photo.PNG" height="200" width="133" /></a></div>
<br />
Next on the agenda for the wedding is my bachelorette party in March!Mackenziehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05554702614108376478noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2858225610019595929.post-76640990764578579432014-02-05T12:45:00.000-05:002014-02-05T12:45:02.248-05:00What do you think of CVS not selling cigs? Did they read the new WHO cancer report?So, I read an article during my lunch break that was very startling and it had to do with cancer.<br />
<br />
A<a href="http://www.iarc.fr/" target="_blank"> report</a> that recently came out from WHO or the World Health Organization stated that they believe that the cancer rate will increase by 57% in the next 20 years. That would mean that the amount of cases of cancer would rise from 14 million to 22 million.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RU72fmPnkL8/UvJ3MceUB4I/AAAAAAAAAwE/37vGntZ93qg/s1600/imagesCAT7LLA8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RU72fmPnkL8/UvJ3MceUB4I/AAAAAAAAAwE/37vGntZ93qg/s1600/imagesCAT7LLA8.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Experts are saying more and more that it will be impossible to "treat our way out of cancer." I would assume that they mean that the rate at which cancer is being diagnosed is far faster than any treatments can be developed to keep in under control or possibly stop/reverse it. <br />
<br />
There are some positives and in the essence of being fair, some of the statistics that explain this information have some caveats. For example, we have to take into account larger populations who are living longer and also have to do with a much larger elderly population. More people are living longer which means the statistical rate at which larger/longer living populations will get cancer, increases with it. <br />
<br />
However, they state that the two MAIN ways that we can curb this cancer rate are listed as reducing alcohol consumption and curbing obesity rates. They state that 1/3 of the most common cancers could be prevented through maintaining a <strong><u>healthy weight, eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly</u></strong>. Novel idea, huh?<br />
<br />
The leading cause of cancer in the world, according to this report, remains to be <u><strong>lung cancer</strong></u> caused by the inhalation of carcinogens. AKA- smoking. These cases equal 1.8 million cases a year most of which are fatal diagnosis with 1.6 million of those cases causing death. It still boggles my mind why anyone would take up this habit to begin with, knowing that it has 0 health benefits and does nothing but kill you. For those who say "it's a stress reliever" well so is yoga and meditation, those can be done for free and make you healthier instead of slowly killing you. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Cy1w_dD_6u4/UvJ2kLXlpvI/AAAAAAAAAv0/qRGFQujQFJQ/s1600/Adverse_effects_of_tobacco_smoking_svg.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Cy1w_dD_6u4/UvJ2kLXlpvI/AAAAAAAAAv0/qRGFQujQFJQ/s1600/Adverse_effects_of_tobacco_smoking_svg.png" height="320" width="304" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
So, that is the perfect segway into the big news that hit today about CVS. CVS announced that they will be halting the sale of cigarettes and tobacco products starting October 1st in an effort to remain true to their credo of helping people live healthier lives. Some say it's a re branding campaign, probably some components of both. <br />
<br />
On a personal note, my own company will be going smoke free in 2015. This means that no one is allowed to smoke anywhere on the property. As a non-smoker that makes me happy to hear that I don't have to breath in nasty, stale cigarette air. Obviously though, I am biased. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GFrSuLYFGtQ/UvJ2wrZkxjI/AAAAAAAAAv8/vgZF1dgZKOo/s1600/untitled.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GFrSuLYFGtQ/UvJ2wrZkxjI/AAAAAAAAAv8/vgZF1dgZKOo/s1600/untitled.png" /></a></div>
I give a huge thumbs up to CVS for taking this stance for 2 reasons. The first reason being that they are actually one of the few companies who is willing to put their beliefs and credo above profits. It is estimated that they will lose 1-2 billion dollars a year in revenue. <br />
<br />
The second reason being that they are trying to help people make good decisions about their health. With the cancer reports findings, it looks like we could use some help!<br />
<br />
However, not everyone is happy about this. While the majority of people that I have seen approve of the decision and see it's healthful impact, others are not pleased. Look at some of the tweets that you can find if you search the public #CVS hashtag.<br />
<br />
<u><span style="color: #0084b4;"><strong>Eric Shapiro</strong> <span></span></span><span class="username js-action-profile-name"><s><span style="color: #66b5d2;">@</span></s><b><span style="color: #0084b4;">EricShapiro3</span></b></span><span style="color: #0084b4;"> </span></u> <small class="time"> <a class="tweet-timestamp js-permalink js-nav js-tooltip" href="https://twitter.com/EricShapiro3/status/431053448587784192" title="8:15 AM - 5 Feb 2014"><span class="_timestamp js-short-timestamp js-relative-timestamp" data-long-form="true" data-time="1391606125"><span style="color: #0084b4;">4h</span></span></a> </small> <br />
<div class="js-tweet-text tweet-text">
It's not the role of drugstore chains to cure bad habits & it's not "courageous" to be a corporate busybody. <a class="twitter-hashtag pretty-link js-nav" data-query-source="hashtag_click" dir="ltr" href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23cvs&src=hash"><s><span style="color: #66b5d2;">#</span></s><b><strong><span style="color: #0084b4;">cvs</span></strong></b></a></div>
<br />
<u><span style="color: #0084b4;"><strong>Emily!</strong> <span></span></span><span class="username js-action-profile-name"><s><span style="color: #66b5d2;">@</span></s><b><span style="color: #0084b4;">EmilyF_NC</span></b></span><span style="color: #0084b4;"> </span></u> <small class="time"> <a class="tweet-timestamp js-permalink js-nav js-tooltip" href="https://twitter.com/EmilyF_NC/status/431117829799411712" title="12:31 PM - 5 Feb 2014"><span class="_timestamp js-short-timestamp js-relative-timestamp" data-long-form="true" data-time="1391621475"><span style="color: #0084b4;">2m</span></span></a> </small> <br />
<div class="js-tweet-text tweet-text">
If <a class="twitter-hashtag pretty-link js-nav" data-query-source="hashtag_click" dir="ltr" href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23cvs&src=hash"><s><span style="color: #66b5d2;">#</span></s><b><strong><span style="color: #0084b4;">cvs</span></strong></b></a> was interested in consumer health, half their store wouldn't be taken up by Russell Stover this week. I'm not buying it <a class="twitter-atreply pretty-link" dir="ltr" href="https://twitter.com/morningmika"><s><span style="color: #66b5d2;">@</span></s><b><span style="color: #0084b4;">morningmika</span></b></a></div>
<div class="js-tweet-text tweet-text">
</div>
<div class="js-tweet-text tweet-text">
<u><span style="color: #0084b4;"><strong>Oz Banks</strong> <span></span></span><span class="username js-action-profile-name"><s><span style="color: #66b5d2;">@</span></s><b><span style="color: #0084b4;">ozbanks1</span></b></span><span style="color: #0084b4;"> </span></u> <small class="time"> <a class="tweet-timestamp js-permalink js-nav js-tooltip" href="https://twitter.com/ozbanks1/status/431117285730705408" title="12:29 PM - 5 Feb 2014"><span class="_timestamp js-short-timestamp js-relative-timestamp" data-long-form="true" data-time="1391621345"><span style="color: #0084b4;">5m</span></span></a> </small> </div>
<div class="js-tweet-text tweet-text">
In protest, I'm chain smoking in front of every CVS in town while lighting homeless, elderly, and children on fire! <a class="twitter-hashtag pretty-link js-nav" data-query-source="hashtag_click" dir="ltr" href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23CVS&src=hash"><s><span style="color: #66b5d2;">#</span></s><b><strong><span style="color: #0084b4;">CVS</span></strong></b></a> <a class="twitter-hashtag pretty-link js-nav" data-query-source="hashtag_click" dir="ltr" href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23FightThePower&src=hash"><s><span style="color: #66b5d2;">#</span></s><b><span style="color: #0084b4;">FightThePower</span></b></a></div>
<div class="js-tweet-text tweet-text">
</div>
So, with new ads coming out to turn off teen smokers, cigarettes being taxes at a higher rate, no smoking in bars/entryways,restaurants and now major retailers refusing to sell them - what will happen to tobacco? Will we actually manage to move towards a society where lung cancer rates bottom out? Will we be healthier as a whole?<br />
<br />
I don't know but I for one am happy to see ANY movement towards a healthier America. Now if we can get people moving and eating better - we will live forever! Mwahaha!<br />
<br />
<br />
Mackenziehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05554702614108376478noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2858225610019595929.post-68344752115356684982014-02-01T17:05:00.003-05:002014-02-01T17:43:42.094-05:00My 1st Experience with Acupuncture! Healing Hands ClinicHello all!<br />
<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NsLuDuRqu0E/Uu11ge2NowI/AAAAAAAAAuk/zirmupKtMP4/s1600/image+(2).jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NsLuDuRqu0E/Uu11ge2NowI/AAAAAAAAAuk/zirmupKtMP4/s1600/image+(2).jpeg" height="200" width="150" /></a>I am so pumped to write this blog post because recently, I got the opportunity to try something I have never, ever encountered before. I recently was provided the opportunity to try a new avenue in the health and wellness community...Acupuncture!<br />
<br />
<span style="color: black;">Andrea Maria Perullo de Ledesma, L.Ac., M.S. is probably one of the most impressive women I have ever met in my life. Not only does she speak several different languages but she has more than 5 years of education in medicine, Asian studies and experience in South Africa and China treating auto-immune disorders and HIV/Aids with Acupuncture. She has been running her own Acupuncture clinic for 6 years in Charlotte and offered to teach me more about it.</span><br />
<span style="color: black;"></span><br />
<span style="color: black;">Andi talked to me about the real history surrounding Acupuncture including history about it's basis in Chinese history. Here are some of the things that I learned:</span><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="color: black;">Each organ is associated with an emotion and a color</span></li>
<li>Your energy is supposed to flow downward through your body</li>
<li>Your spirit is called your "shen"</li>
<li><span style="color: black;">There are 12 meridians in the body that are associated with different organs</span></li>
<li>The tongue and the pulse can tell an Acupuncturist a lot about your health!</li>
<li>There are 3 pulse points in both wrists that correspond to different organs</li>
</ul>
Ok, so here was my experience. Andi sat down with me and talked about my medical history and the issues I was having that could be helped through Acupuncture. I discussed with her that I had A LOT of stress in the past month and that I have asthma. <br />
<br />
She felt my pulse in both wrists and told me that my pulse is strong but "wirey" which made sense because that corresponds with stress. Also, she said that I have a "rebellious Qi" which means that your energy is running in the wrong direction. <br />
<br />
The 3 pulse points correspond like this:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Sj87GlLEoC4/Uu1voOSXIUI/AAAAAAAAAuE/X3NKySFHiio/s1600/untitled.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Sj87GlLEoC4/Uu1voOSXIUI/AAAAAAAAAuE/X3NKySFHiio/s1600/untitled.png" height="295" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
She also took a look at my tongue and told me 3 things:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
1. I have a scalloped tongue which means that I have digestive issues</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
2. I have a strong crack in my tongue that indicates I could have problems with acid reflux</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
3. I have a coated tongue which also could show digestive issues or food sensitivities</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
So, because of what we discovered that because of my stress and asthma it corresponds to the liver and lungs. The liver is affiliated with the color green and gets thrown off by stress and anger. The lungs are affiliated with the color white and is associated with grief. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Once we talked about all of these things, I laid on the table and Andi placed the needles. The most awesome part was that I didn't even feel the needles going in! What I did feel was a slight tingling sensation through my extremities. Probably the weirdest part was that there was a needle that was put right at the top of my head!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8-eL9cvtO2U/Uu11XhQ7III/AAAAAAAAAuc/1arh8KuE1KU/s1600/dafdas.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8-eL9cvtO2U/Uu11XhQ7III/AAAAAAAAAuc/1arh8KuE1KU/s1600/dafdas.jpeg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
She explained to me that I would need to lay and relax, meditating or sleeping for about 45 minutes. The time went so fast and I felt myself falling into a really deep relaxed state. I was aware and conscious but was so relaxed, I didn't want to move. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5RaQ-GNkHmw/Uu11_-Exg2I/AAAAAAAAAvA/7Is7AW7sL7g/s1600/adfad.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5RaQ-GNkHmw/Uu11_-Exg2I/AAAAAAAAAvA/7Is7AW7sL7g/s1600/adfad.jpeg" height="320" width="240" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uB6FCVBekvI/Uu10fwglLBI/AAAAAAAAAuY/Su1P7-QDpVU/s1600/image+%25285%2529.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uB6FCVBekvI/Uu10fwglLBI/AAAAAAAAAuY/Su1P7-QDpVU/s1600/image+%25285%2529.jpeg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bPMTPP-TbI8/Uu11_jV5t0I/AAAAAAAAAu8/CfdbuUDWV34/s1600/bjbj.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bPMTPP-TbI8/Uu11_jV5t0I/AAAAAAAAAu8/CfdbuUDWV34/s1600/bjbj.jpeg" height="320" width="240" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-m7clsppyJck/Uu11_mpHw1I/AAAAAAAAAvg/9gya74ZKFXU/s1600/bbj.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-m7clsppyJck/Uu11_mpHw1I/AAAAAAAAAvg/9gya74ZKFXU/s1600/bbj.jpeg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rT_lnPN_IBI/Uu12AkzM4qI/AAAAAAAAAvU/cvhuA8UqKZM/s1600/djafd.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rT_lnPN_IBI/Uu12AkzM4qI/AAAAAAAAAvU/cvhuA8UqKZM/s1600/djafd.jpeg" height="320" width="240" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YOnvc072zH4/Uu12ATR0NJI/AAAAAAAAAvI/oSFAilhwkpk/s1600/dadfad.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YOnvc072zH4/Uu12ATR0NJI/AAAAAAAAAvI/oSFAilhwkpk/s1600/dadfad.jpeg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gppbzNdTZs0/Uu12BJfpW9I/AAAAAAAAAvY/kXpPLBQ4qdM/s1600/sdsds.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gppbzNdTZs0/Uu12BJfpW9I/AAAAAAAAAvY/kXpPLBQ4qdM/s1600/sdsds.jpeg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
She removed the needles very quickly after the 45 minutes and put a delicious smelling oil on my head. As I slowly got up, I realized that I had a bit of queasiness in my stomach but besides that I felt so Zen and relaxed. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Aside from stress and asthma, I talked to Andi about the other things she treats with Acupuncture and she said that she works with a lot of women with fertility issues and has helped over 50 women get pregnant. She can also help with sports injuries, chronic pain and a slew of other things. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I highly recommend Acupuncture to others and especially <a href="http://thehealinghandsclinic.com/about-2/" target="_blank">Healing Hands Clinic</a> with Andi. She was awesome, explained everything to me and made sure I had an excellent experience. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
Mackenziehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05554702614108376478noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2858225610019595929.post-36721334143254897842014-01-27T09:15:00.000-05:002014-01-27T09:15:02.369-05:0075 Days and Counting- Goals Update!<br />
Today marks 75 days and counting until the big day! I am down to two and a half months until I walk down that aisle and I can't wait. <br />
<br />
Alright so update on this past weeks goals and new goals for the upcoming week!<br />
<br />
Here is what my exercise routine looked like for this past week. <br />
<br />
<ol>
<li>Sunday - 5.19 miles with the future hubby</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Monday - 3.68 mile hill run, 1.5 mile hill bike, mild weightlifting</div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Tuesday - 40 Minute weighted circuit workout</div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Wednesday - Rest Day</div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Thursday - Heavy lifting day</div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Friday - Rest Day (Gonna be honest, my arms and legs were super sore)</div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Saturday - 5 mile hike with the pup and a full cleaning of the house (It was so gross and needed to be done)</div>
</li>
</ol>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-52SxEUaNZf8/UuZpc4c_w7I/AAAAAAAAAt0/ta7wkopd1Vo/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-52SxEUaNZf8/UuZpc4c_w7I/AAAAAAAAAt0/ta7wkopd1Vo/s1600/photo.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">He was pooped after that long walk!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I am happy to see it written down and that I got almost 15 miles in this past week!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Goals for this weeks workouts:</div>
<ol>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Sunday - 4.3 mile hill run (completed) Dwayne and I ran the booty loop on Sunday afternoon</div>
</li>
</ol>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-J_cuSVTdJaY/UuZoMEq43rI/AAAAAAAAAts/gaocg75jTLo/s1600/1536579_755219049516_963970706_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-J_cuSVTdJaY/UuZoMEq43rI/AAAAAAAAAts/gaocg75jTLo/s1600/1536579_755219049516_963970706_n.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<ol>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Monday - Cardio Circuit training w/ Kettle Bells</div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Tuesday - 5 mile recovery run</div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Wednesday - Heavy lifting day</div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Thursday - 20/20/20 workout (20 mins high intensity on the treadmill, elliptical and bike)</div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Friday - Rest Day</div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Saturday - Outside Run (hopefully) -4 miles</div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Sunday - Walk the dog/Yoga</div>
</li>
</ol>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
My goal is to slowly increase my miles per week up until the wedding while mixing in some harder strength training workouts. The end goal would be to tone up by replacing fat with some extra muscle so that I look toned in my dress. I don't want to lose any mass because I don't want to run the risk of my dress not fitting on my wedding day! What a disaster that would be!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
I also have to tell you that we have our bridal team working overtime to prepare for the wedding, including the sweetest flower girl you will ever see. She is practicing hard as you can see in this video!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=753740073396&l=2571176178679796604">https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=753740073396&l=2571176178679796604</a><br />
<br />
<strong>Question of the week:</strong><br />
<br />
Do you have workout goals for this week? If so, what are they? What motivates you to get going and what might stand in your way?<br />
<br />
Mackenziehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05554702614108376478noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2858225610019595929.post-57388937633153858192014-01-26T10:36:00.000-05:002014-01-26T10:36:04.667-05:00Guest Post: Stephanie Clemmer and a Triumph Over 25 PoundsHi all,<br />
<br />
I have known my friend Stephanie for several years now and am really happy to say that I have watched her and (hopefully) helped her a little bit discover the drive to lose 25 pounds through exercise and healthy eating. I am so proud of her and because of her amazing work, I asked her to write a guest post for me to post on my blog.<br />
<br />
Here is her guest post and I offer a huge congratulations to Steffi and her weight loss!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ROHdgQixXKM/UuUpVoOs_BI/AAAAAAAAAtE/zOMY37slzBM/s1600/securedownload.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ROHdgQixXKM/UuUpVoOs_BI/AAAAAAAAAtE/zOMY37slzBM/s1600/securedownload.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Steffi in Summer 2012 (left) and 2014 (right)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<span id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1390749730675_1872">"My name is Stephaine Clemmer and I have always struggled with my weight. I've tried the crash diets, diet pills, the "magic" shakes, and finally I think what worked for me to get in the best shape of my life, GETTING ENGAGED!</span><br /><span></span><br /><span id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1390749730675_1987">I was at my all time heaviest, I was not happy.. I never wanted to have my picture taken, always compared myself to other girls and said why can't I look like that. Well November 16th, 2012 it all changed. </span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vhIVFemnDSc/UuUpyyVorCI/AAAAAAAAAtM/CV9r_iKx4wY/s1600/setffis.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vhIVFemnDSc/UuUpyyVorCI/AAAAAAAAAtM/CV9r_iKx4wY/s1600/setffis.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(left) Starting weight vs (right) 1st years progress</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span></span><br />
<span>My amazing fiancé, Craig McClintock, asked me to be his wife! I could not be more excited to spend the rest of my life with such a caring person who always saw the best in me and pushed me even when I wanted to stop. He made my life so much better. So, of course my first thought was omg I need a dress. I wasn't happy with myself so I said come the new year, I will get into the best shape of my life for my wedding and find a dress I'll look awesome in. January 1, 2013 comes around and I made sure that I went to the gym with all the other resolutioners. I had a gym membership for about a year before I actually became, I guess you could say "obsessed" with it, but never really stuck to it until after I was engaged. I started on the elliptical and getting in other forms of cardio. I cut out fast food restaurants, tried to eat more fruit and vegetables, and also had a team of five or six friends in different states who had a private Facebook group to help motivate each other. Another incentive for losing weight that my friend found for me was an app called, Every Move. This app offers rewards for discounted health food, sneakers, fitness gadgets, and a ton of other things - this was awesome so I definitely stuck with recording my activities. I also tracked my calories using MyFitnessPal, which is AMAZING. </span><br /><span></span><br /><span>When starting my weight loss journey in 2013, I started working out 5-6 days a week and started watching what I ate. I also tried ViSalus which is a nutritional shake from Body By Vi. I used the shakes for about a month and a half and lost 8 lbs so I was excited. I just couldn't do with the two shakes a day so I cut my 90 day challenge short. I still use the shakes every once in a while. I tried the Special K diet for 2 weeks because it said you could lose up to 6 lbs every in two weeks, so my friend and I were believers so we tried it out. With this diet, I lost 4.2 lbs. After this challenge, I fell off of the "crash diets" and "magic shakes" and just decided to keep better tabs on my calorie intake and exercise. I started taking gym classes such as Cardio Fusion (a mixture of strength training and cardio) as well as Les Mills Pump. While doing these classes I was also getting into the habit of running as I had signed up for my first Half Marathon. In May of 2013 I ran my first half marathon in 2 hours 46 mins. I was so excited to be able to finish. At the end of May 2013 I was down 20 lbs. I started to slow down a little on running and tried to start building some muscle, and continued with Les Mills Pump classes - I did however, do a few 5k races throughout the summer. In November 2013 there was a new race added in Pittsburgh which was the EQT 10 Miler and I definitely had to sign up for this. Two long distances runs in 2013 was an achievement I never thought I would ever accomplish, it was an amazing feeling.</span><br />
<span></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hx2cwwlFRDw/UuUqn_faHzI/AAAAAAAAAtU/PceC1I8HJQw/s1600/1454352_10202092376018560_1508780067_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hx2cwwlFRDw/UuUqn_faHzI/AAAAAAAAAtU/PceC1I8HJQw/s1600/1454352_10202092376018560_1508780067_n.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
<span></span><br />
<span></span><br />
<span></span><span>Eventually I noticed I wasn't losing the weight as quickly as I was before, and I was at a plateau for a good 5 months and come January 2014 I told myself I would get back to my 5-6 days a week working out as we were only 4.5 months away from the big day. Since January 1, 2014 I have been working out 5-6 days a week, started eating clean, and recording my calories better. I am officially down 26.2 lbs as of January 24, 2014. I began my journey at 166.8 lbs, and now weigh 140.6 - I am 3 lbs away from my High School weight, and 5 lbs away from my goal weight.</span><br /><span></span><br /><span>Tips for the weight loss journey: Get a fitness gadget - I started with a FitBit Zip, got the Jawbone UP and now have the FitBit Force and I absolutely love them - you have friends you can compete with so it makes it fun and I'm an extremely competitive person. If you have a friend into fitness - recruit a friend to be your gym partner! Try to eat clean, Set realistic goals, reward yourself - I reward myself with new running shoes or a mani/pedi. Lastly, switch up your routine every 4 weeks. </span><br /><span></span><br /><span id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1390749730675_1997">Struggles along the way: Sweets - my biggest downfall. Convenience - meal planning was not really ideal all the time so this caused me to slack off sometimes. The Plateau - this was my biggest struggle because I went 5-6 months without losing any weight and constantly fluctuated 2-3 lbs and couldn't understand why I wasn't losing until I changed up my diet and added more strength training into my routine.</span><br /><span></span><br /><span id="yui_3_13_0_ym1_1_1390749730675_2000">My goal now is to lose my last 5 lbs maybe 10 to be at my absolute IDEAL goal weight and continue to add some muscle definition or as some call it "tone up". The big day is May 12, 2014 in the beautiful beach in the Outer Banks, North Carolina and I am beyond determined to look amazing in my gorgeous Maggie Sottero dress.. If I can do it, ANYONE can."</span><br />
<span></span><br />
<span><strong><em>Note from Mackenzie:</em></strong></span><br />
<span></span><br />
<span></span><br />
<span>I have to say how proud I am of Steffi. Losing weight, sticking to a plan and getting into exercise can be a very difficult thing to stick to and she is one of the few people that I personally know that stuck with a plan and didn't stop until they achieved their goals. I am so happy for her and I give her so much credit. </span><br />
<span></span><br />
<span>Great job Steffi!</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-a_2lchtJVvE/UuUrU2AZaPI/AAAAAAAAAtc/OXBNBscH_64/s1600/1476934_10202534271945682_728216401_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-a_2lchtJVvE/UuUrU2AZaPI/AAAAAAAAAtc/OXBNBscH_64/s1600/1476934_10202534271945682_728216401_n.jpg" /></a></div>
<span></span>Mackenziehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05554702614108376478noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2858225610019595929.post-26210341832492142082014-01-24T08:24:00.001-05:002014-01-24T08:24:56.858-05:00Kudos to Lindsey VonnHi all,<br />
<br />
I saw<a href="http://abcnews.go.com/blogs/entertainment/2014/01/lindsey-vonn-its-sexy-to-be-strong-instead-of-skinny-fat/" target="_blank"> an article</a> this morning and I need to give credit to one, Ms. Lindsey Vonn! For those of you who may not know Lindsey Vonn, she is an Olympic Alpine Skier for the US Winter Olympics team. She is also the girlfriend of Tiger Woods. One of those attributes I am in full support of, the other I am not, bet you can guess which one! : )<br />
<br />
However, she did an interview with SELF magazine that is getting some press regarding her feelings about body image and her level of self esteem. <br />
<br />
While she did admit that sometimes she feels very self conscious because she is around stick thin models a lot, that she realizes that she is healthier than they are. I believe she used the term "Skinny-Fat" which is supposed to mean that while these women may be at or probably under their ideal weight for their height, they lack muscle tone because that "waifish" thin style is more appropriate for this rich and famous according to the standards. <br />
<br />
I don't condone name calling or really putting a label on anyone's weight or body shape, so I am not sure how I feel about the phrase "Skinny-Fat". I know that everyone is different but I do have to say that I am glad to hear more and more women every day stepping up to say that strong and healthy is the new sexy norm. <br />
<br />
Personally I would easily prefer to be strong and an Olympic athlete staring down the peak of a huge mountain than walk down a runway while people look at me and judging how clothes look on body. So kudos to you Lindsey Vonn for being yet another woman that I would want the young girls of America to look up to and strive to be. Keep it up!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3zoBzJq1pso/UuJpRBMffAI/AAAAAAAAAs0/TsnTe7hRg-Q/s1600/32abe1c1-0af9-308e-872e-666a8292ba67.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3zoBzJq1pso/UuJpRBMffAI/AAAAAAAAAs0/TsnTe7hRg-Q/s1600/32abe1c1-0af9-308e-872e-666a8292ba67.jpg" height="320" width="234" /></a></div>
You will be my inspiration as I am lifting my weights today : )Mackenziehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05554702614108376478noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2858225610019595929.post-6318972325540707002014-01-22T09:02:00.002-05:002014-01-22T09:02:13.747-05:0080 Day Countdown Goals, New Circuit Workout and First RSVP's Are In!Hello all!<br />
<br />
It's the final countdown - 80 days until the wedding officially as of today and it is becoming very real that soon Dwayne and I will be husband and wife. I think it will be crazy to tell people that I have a husband. As someone who was never the type of girl who grew up planning her 'dream wedding' it is sort of surreal to think about it coming up so quickly.<br />
<br />
<h2 align="center">
<span style="color: #990000;"><em>80 Days and Counting Until I Say I DO</em></span></h2>
<br />
I am so very excited because the first RSVP's for our wedding have come in through our wedding website. We decided that we were going to do all of our RSVP'ing online through our wedding website instead of with the RSVP cards because, let's face it, people our age do not remember to send RSVP cards back. We just aren't the mailing generation and I make no apologies for that - online is just easier. So we decided to save some time, money and hassle by setting up the RSVP's online through our website portal. At this point we are fairly certain that at least 10 people will be attending the wedding officially. Every time that someone RSVP's I get an email letting me know. I have been checking my e-mail like a crazy person to see if there are new ones. <br />
<br />
With less than 3 months to the big day, I feel like it's really time to start getting down to business with my personal preparations. My goals before the wedding are:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>To really work on toning up my arms and working out <u><strong>consistently</strong></u> 5-6 times a week to be tone for Costa Rica. I want people to think our wedding photos were taken at a gun show. (ha- get it?)</li>
<li>Work extra hard on improving my Spanish with an emphasis on speaking and understanding other people to speak completely in Spanish while in Costa Rica.</li>
<li>Try to maintain a better skin, hair and teeth care regimen.</li>
</ul>
So I have started the process of reach these goals. <br />
<ul>
<li>I am using the boost I got from the high altitude in Salt Lake to boost by base exercise threshold and keep it there. Usually I run 3 miles, I have been trying to consistently run 5. The goal here is CONSISTENT. I work out every week but sometimes it's only 2 times because of my schedule and sometimes it's 6. I need to be more focused, purposeful and consistent in my exercise and to not change the way my dress fits!</li>
</ul>
I have started strong this week so far:<br />
<ol>
<li>Sunday - 5.19 miles with the future hubby<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wKNot8u2dv4/Ut_O14veiVI/AAAAAAAAAsk/1i_7wbQFNyI/s1600/1606987_753707473726_1647388894_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wKNot8u2dv4/Ut_O14veiVI/AAAAAAAAAsk/1i_7wbQFNyI/s1600/1606987_753707473726_1647388894_n.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a></div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Monday - 3.68 mile hill run, 1.5 mile hill bike, mild weightlifting</div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Tuesday - 40 Minute weighted circuit workout</div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Wednesday - Today's plan is to try that 5 mile run again</div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Thursday - Heavy lifting day</div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Friday - Rest Day</div>
</li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Saturday and Sunday - Hopefully nice enough for running outside</div>
</li>
</ol>
<ul><ul>
<li>I did this workout yesterday during my lunch break- came out to be about 40 minutes and really had my heart rate going.</li>
<ul>
<li>Circuit 1 (Perform 3 times)</li>
<ul>
<li>30 sec Jump Rope</li>
<li>30 sec Box Jumps</li>
<li>15 Burpees</li>
<li>30 sec Jumping Jacks</li>
</ul>
<li>Circuit 2 (perform 3 times)</li>
<ul>
<li>20 weighted squats</li>
<li>15 jump squats</li>
<li>20 kettle bell walking lunges</li>
<li>10 Burpees</li>
</ul>
<li>Circuit 3 (perform 3 times)</li>
<ul>
<li>12 pushups</li>
<li>20 mountain climbers</li>
<li>12 shoulder press</li>
<li>1 min plank</li>
</ul>
<li>Circuit 4 (Perform 3 times)</li>
<ul>
<li>12 Body Weight Dips</li>
<li>12 Lat pull downs</li>
<li>12 Tricep pull downs</li>
</ul>
</ul>
</ul>
<li>I have found a few penpals from Costa Rica on mylanguageexchange.com to learn some local phrases and areas to see. I have also started reading a new book. A harder level than my last 4-5 books, completely in Spanish. </li>
</ul>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--8MLWlof80s/Ut_NdlgsFDI/AAAAAAAAAsY/Mt1Pk7LDlZE/s1600/adsfa.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--8MLWlof80s/Ut_NdlgsFDI/AAAAAAAAAsY/Mt1Pk7LDlZE/s1600/adsfa.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<ul>
<li>I have spent the last year trying to get my hair healthier with more consistent haircuts, better products and getting rid of some of the heat I use to style it. I am going to start brushing a few times a week with baking soda and hydrogen peroxide. A tip from my dentist as a cheap way to whiten and polish your teeth! I really need to focus on moisturizing my skin every day and especially washing my face before bed. I have a terrible habit of not doing this and I know that the healthier my skin is, the better the makeup will look. I just need to get motivated when I am tired.</li>
</ul>
I am going to try to blog more up until the big day and use my blog to help track my workouts. Did you try my circuit workout? How did you do? What did you think?Mackenziehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05554702614108376478noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2858225610019595929.post-75214365263616423002014-01-19T16:09:00.001-05:002014-01-19T16:09:15.107-05:00Back to Salt Lake City and Wedding Invitations!This past week was spent in Salt Lake City going to the resort I had to check out for work a few months ago for those of you who had read my <a href="http://fitnessnat.blogspot.com/2013/09/my-trip-to-salt-lake-city.html" target="_blank">previous post</a>. It was one of the most stressful weeks of my life because the huge conference that we were facilitating but I still managed to find some time to work out. <br />
<br />
I tried to take it easy because I was around 9,000 feet above sea level so I tried to run a mile, then walk a bit and catch my breath before continuing on. Before the end of the week, I was surprised at how quickly my body adjusted. Some of the reason I wanted to go to the gym was the view from the treadmills, they couldn't be beat!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7N_gTZiXxFg/Utw8a8uW6jI/AAAAAAAAArA/LM_WC7AHPxk/s1600/1505225_752510392686_682132100_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7N_gTZiXxFg/Utw8a8uW6jI/AAAAAAAAArA/LM_WC7AHPxk/s1600/1505225_752510392686_682132100_n.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I had a great time during the week and got to spend time with a lot of coworkers that I don't normally get to see. Including some of my all time favorites!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QbFBUzDm8nI/Utw9C17DqaI/AAAAAAAAArY/Azqsz96t5ZM/s1600/IMG_8430.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QbFBUzDm8nI/Utw9C17DqaI/AAAAAAAAArY/Azqsz96t5ZM/s1600/IMG_8430.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eQPSSvDFo6k/Utw9BI6UaaI/AAAAAAAAArI/CU0Vhj66EJI/s1600/IMG_8434.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eQPSSvDFo6k/Utw9BI6UaaI/AAAAAAAAArI/CU0Vhj66EJI/s1600/IMG_8434.JPG" height="320" width="213" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vFPv89sXflk/Utw9GJhl9qI/AAAAAAAAArg/uCrEKzUgfjg/s1600/IMG_8560.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vFPv89sXflk/Utw9GJhl9qI/AAAAAAAAArg/uCrEKzUgfjg/s1600/IMG_8560.JPG" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9Q1c6TXRhRU/Utw9Bu_Wo7I/AAAAAAAAArM/pbxDULgPC-o/s1600/IMG_8456.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9Q1c6TXRhRU/Utw9Bu_Wo7I/AAAAAAAAArM/pbxDULgPC-o/s1600/IMG_8456.JPG" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
The nice part about the week was that I got to have a say in the menu so every meal had some pretty healthy fair to choose from. I tried to remember to drink a ton of water and eat regularly to try and keep from getting altitude sickness. I only had a headache the first day, thank goodness!<br />
<br />
I was so excited to get back because we got the email that our wedding invitations were finally printed and ready to go! I was so excited and Dwayne and I stuffed everything Saturday morning and they were ready to send.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YrAUffftVug/Utw-UsdGXLI/AAAAAAAAAr8/7SIIXc2iO0Q/s1600/1000022_753514809826_817937764_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YrAUffftVug/Utw-UsdGXLI/AAAAAAAAAr8/7SIIXc2iO0Q/s1600/1000022_753514809826_817937764_n.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Sunday Dwayne and I decided to go for a run at McAlpine park and I was really intrigued to see how my body handled it knowing that I have been training in such a high altitude lately. I was so happy because I felt amazing while running and I felt like I had a lot more stamina. We are under 90 days until the wedding and I really need to step up my exercise regimen so I feel like I am at my healthiest on my wedding day!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5rkWVYBes9M/Utw-5noCUiI/AAAAAAAAAsE/d5RcCD4vyfA/s1600/1606987_753707473726_1647388894_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5rkWVYBes9M/Utw-5noCUiI/AAAAAAAAAsE/d5RcCD4vyfA/s1600/1606987_753707473726_1647388894_n.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
Mackenziehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05554702614108376478noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2858225610019595929.post-20258146266644715632014-01-08T10:08:00.002-05:002014-01-08T10:09:18.233-05:00The Battle Between Avid Gym Users and ResolutionersAh the new year! I have amazingly high hopes for 2014 because there are so many great things happening. The number 1 most amazing thing to happen this year is that I am marrying my best friend in only 94 days. I have to say that 2013 was kind of a blur and I truly can't believe it went so quickly and we are now down to the final months but I am beyond excited. <br />
<br />
January and the beginning of a new year can mean a lot of things to a lot of people. For most people, the new year brings a clean slate and a chance to start over with new goals. Usually, as we all know, those goals include new years resolutions which always include the top 3: Weight loss, exercising more and eating healthier. <br />
<br />
The top 10 NY resolutions are:<br />
<br />
1. Eat healthy and exercise more<br />
2. Learn a new skill<br />
3. Quite smoking<br />
4. Lose weight <br />
5. Drink Less<br />
6. Reduce Stress/Get Organized<br />
7. Save money<br />
8. Volunteer More<br />
9. Read More<br />
10. Finish to-do lists<br />
<br />
These are all admirable resolutions but to the health and fitness related ones. I have a few suggestions!<br />
<br />
January is a heated month between regular gym goers and those with resolutions. To an avid gym user throughout the entire year, it becomes frustrating to walk into your normally open gym to find every machine, free weight and open area being taken up by someone and putting the stop on the workout you wanted to do. It becomes more frustrating to see these machines being used incorrectly or taken up for 60 minutes by someone reading a book and walking at a snails pace. <br />
<br />
On the flip side, I am sure that walking into a gym after a while with a new resolution can be very intimidating for those folks. You feel lost, don't really know where anything is or how to use it for that matter. Questions arise like - "What is that thing with all the cables?" or "How much weight should I use? Should I be lifting? That ladies lifting." <br />
<br />
Please let me preface any of this with saying that I think that any step taken to get healthier is a wonderful thing to do and I encourage everyone to get motivated to do so. I also understand that some people with resolutions haven't exercised in a long time and so they are at beginning fitness levels trying to work their way up and that's great! <br />
<br />
So instead of feeding this fire of annoyance on both sides of the fence. I have a few helpful tips that I have from my time on both sides of the gym coin. I have been a newbie and I am now experienced in gym etiquette so let's make some agreements and keep everyone motivated!<br />
<br />
For avid gym goers:<br />
<br />
1. Maybe try to come to the gym when it isn't peak hours. Most people just starting out will be trying to come after work or before work, on a lunch break. Whenever they can fit it in to their normal routine with work, kids, etc. If you want more space, maybe come a bit earlier or later to avoid the crowd.<br />
2. Try working out at home instead of hitting the gym<br />
3. If you see someone using a machine in a way that could be dangerous or result in injury- be kind and offer some friendly help if they are receptive. Never make fun because you were once new at this too!<br />
4. Try to support people - a friendly smile, "good job" or pat on the back could be the difference to someone continuing to come or quitting their resolution. <br />
<br />
For new gym users:<br />
<br />
1. Take the time to learn how to effectively get back into exercise and how the machines work. Every gym will usually provide new members with a tour and training session on how the machines work and using them safely and effectively. <br />
2. Always wipe down your machines, mats, anything that you touched. January is a huge month for germs and every gym will ask you to wash your hands and disinfect any machine you use. <br />
3. Wear proper gym clothes - too many times I see the man running in cargo pants or a woman in the "heat suits" that look like garbage bags to lose water weight. Not having proper fitting and breathing gym clothes can be harmful. This doesn't mean $150 stretch pants from Lululemon. Cheap gym shorts and a old tshirt will do just fine. Please no untied sneakers or see through leggings. <br />
<br />
4. The most important - this might sound counter productive to the gym goers but KEEP COMING! I think the most frustrating thing about resolutioners to avid gym people is that we know that the machines are all packed now but half (statistically 48%) of those people will have given up on their resolution by February. Anyone who works out wants other people to feel the benefits from it too and keep up with it. <br />
<br />
Take these tips or don't but to everyone who has a resolution, I truly hope that you are looking back at this time next year and are still keeping up with what you have promised yourself. Mackenziehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05554702614108376478noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2858225610019595929.post-86662086725041204362014-01-03T09:48:00.001-05:002014-01-03T09:48:28.541-05:00My Yoga Inspired Bridal Shower and Christmas Time!Hi all!<br />
<br />
There is so much to share in this post because so much has happened since I had last written. I apologize for being MIA for a few weeks but my workload really piled up and we were traveling for the holidays to see family, friends and finish everything up for the wedding!<br />
<br />
I have officially been on vacation for over 10 days now and I have to say that I am thoroughly enjoying it! I have been able to work out, see friends and I actually sat down and read an entire book in one day because I had the time! Imagine that!<br />
<br />
I recently joined a book club and the first month we read Enders Game (my choice) and I loved it! This month we were reading Water for Elephants. I read the entire thing in one day and couldn't put it down! Once I finished it I watched the movie, both were amazing! Have any of you seen the film or read the book? True to form, I think the book was better.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jRLlC3_UWiY/UsbJ_xoiY2I/AAAAAAAAApk/hHseNtmWtEE/s1600/images.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jRLlC3_UWiY/UsbJ_xoiY2I/AAAAAAAAApk/hHseNtmWtEE/s1600/images.jpg" /></a></div>
Now, I have moved onto a book for pleasure that I downloaded on my Kindle, its the newest Ellen DeGeneres autobiography called "Seriously, I'm Kidding." I am about half way through and it just seems like her hilarious ramblings and I am very excited to finish it laughing the whole way!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-B65VKbUw98M/UsbKXnn9-TI/AAAAAAAAAps/UM4Tyg4gjlY/s1600/untitled.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-B65VKbUw98M/UsbKXnn9-TI/AAAAAAAAAps/UM4Tyg4gjlY/s1600/untitled.png" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div align="left">
My soon to be hubby (less than 100 days now!) and I traveled to Pennsylvania to celebrate the holidays with my family in Warren. Luckily, the weather Gods smiled on us and we had no trouble getting there. Even with this little rascal in the backseat. We attempted a nice family photo at my dads- the dog didn't get the memo.</div>
<div align="left">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lvBeOkO4ZIM/UsbK5DcRfOI/AAAAAAAAAp0/bJKMrB1_y-E/s1600/1528599_747803934466_874295815_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lvBeOkO4ZIM/UsbK5DcRfOI/AAAAAAAAAp0/bJKMrB1_y-E/s320/1528599_747803934466_874295815_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
While I was in my hometown, I also had a lovely bridal shower brunch that my aunt threw for me complete with delicious quiches, mimosas and my wonderful family. It was truly a great time and I received amazing gifts to help us improve our kitchen once we are married. I couldn't wait to get home and try them out!</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ER-gS4hAKlY/UsbL_UrBFAI/AAAAAAAAAqQ/AOvMj2a2NJ8/s1600/1488253_749101104926_1934546124_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ER-gS4hAKlY/UsbL_UrBFAI/AAAAAAAAAqQ/AOvMj2a2NJ8/s320/1488253_749101104926_1934546124_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I even got to finally see Baby Joey!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The 2nd bridal shower, yes that's right folks - we fit two bridal showers in over vacation, was in Pittsburgh for my college friends. My best friend and Maid of Honor April created the most creative and beautiful bridal shower I could have imagined. She contacted my favorite yoga studio and instructor from my time in Pittsburgh and scheduled a private class for everyone in their new studio! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BWOCBTAQuGw/UsbMAEjBoPI/AAAAAAAAAqU/YNpxwWRzeyA/s1600/1524717_749095211736_1049224307_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BWOCBTAQuGw/UsbMAEjBoPI/AAAAAAAAAqU/YNpxwWRzeyA/s320/1524717_749095211736_1049224307_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The class was amazing filled with love, relaxation and restoration moves. Perfect for the mix of people we had because some had done yoga before and some hadn't.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Here are some of my favorite pictures!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QohIAu_vq7s/UsbL_YAwEMI/AAAAAAAAAqM/X6vBdvw9gmQ/s1600/1505666_749103130866_936274765_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QohIAu_vq7s/UsbL_YAwEMI/AAAAAAAAAqM/X6vBdvw9gmQ/s320/1505666_749103130866_936274765_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SWH5wQiH_pc/UsbMAeJMxTI/AAAAAAAAAqo/RN1mw50OeaU/s1600/1545708_749103909306_2072000178_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SWH5wQiH_pc/UsbMAeJMxTI/AAAAAAAAAqo/RN1mw50OeaU/s320/1545708_749103909306_2072000178_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6Y6G39_7gU4/UsbMAkXquzI/AAAAAAAAAqk/-tG45n4Fxjk/s1600/1554523_749102951226_2013008503_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6Y6G39_7gU4/UsbMAkXquzI/AAAAAAAAAqk/-tG45n4Fxjk/s320/1554523_749102951226_2013008503_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Afterwards we had wine and healthy snacks - everyone told me it was the most "Mackenzie" shower they could have imagined so I guess we hit the mark!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Before we left Pittsburgh I had my hair and makeup trial and let me tell you, I am in love with the salon I chose. I chose blind based on Yelp, Weddingwire and TheKnot reviews and they did not disappoint. I went to Pretty in Pittsburgh at 8am and found out that they actually opened the studio early for me to come in. How nice! and then they absolutely killed it with the hair and makeup. Here is a little sneak preview of the wedding day.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZmwXRAt9EWE/UsbM_lrML2I/AAAAAAAAAqw/R2twAtU4pP4/s1600/1533738_748355040046_1462238046_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZmwXRAt9EWE/UsbM_lrML2I/AAAAAAAAAqw/R2twAtU4pP4/s320/1533738_748355040046_1462238046_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
When we got back to Charlotte we unpacked and cleaned up and I started thoroughly enjoying being back to my own kitchen, food and exercise routine. Its always harder to stay on track on the road so I am glad to start back up again. I started the year off with a great 4 mile run around our neighborhood! I am trying at all costs to stay away from the gym - I hate it the month of January because all the people with New Years Resolutions crowd all the machines and it becomes impossible.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Anyone else experience that at their gym?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Well the next few months, I am really kicking it into high gear to tone up for the dress! It is under 100 days now until our nuptials and I couldn't be more excited!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div align="left">
</div>
Mackenziehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05554702614108376478noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2858225610019595929.post-71622424366650005362013-11-11T09:02:00.004-05:002013-11-11T09:02:53.243-05:005 Months and 36 days Hello all!<br />
<br />
First, let me start by recapping my weekend because it was ridiculously fun. Dwayne and I go to Greensboro every year around this time to celebrate Homecoming at this Alma Mater, Elon. It is always a ton of fun to get together with all of his old friends and teachers. This year was no exception. There was food, drinks, friends and music.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dbuW-20dy3I/UoDeViyirdI/AAAAAAAAApA/doPB64r_ng8/s1600/1403520_735611677846_915842169_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="148" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dbuW-20dy3I/UoDeViyirdI/AAAAAAAAApA/doPB64r_ng8/s640/1403520_735611677846_915842169_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
and there was even a photo booth, so of course, because Dwayne and I are basically 5 year olds, we had to do it. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cdZ24qi6lNQ/UoDegWH67RI/AAAAAAAAApI/f0S-XYSJK0w/s1600/1394180_735611573056_2093872601_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cdZ24qi6lNQ/UoDegWH67RI/AAAAAAAAApI/f0S-XYSJK0w/s320/1394180_735611573056_2093872601_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hVU_I_YGD-Q/UoDegXlQGaI/AAAAAAAAApM/JUrOvSpA3eM/s1600/1469954_735611518166_1245452889_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hVU_I_YGD-Q/UoDegXlQGaI/AAAAAAAAApM/JUrOvSpA3eM/s320/1469954_735611518166_1245452889_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
The best part about the weekend, in my opinion, was that it was almost as if we had just gotten engaged again. We were seeing people that we haven't seen in a year, who hadn't seen us since we were engaged and so we got a lot of congratulations and hugs. It was great! I almost forgot how great it was to be newly engaged. Everyone is so happy for you. You get the occasional marriage nay-sayer but that's usually someone who has tried and failed a few times, so I don't pay much attention. <br />
<br />
In all the wedding talk, I realized that the time is really ticking down to the big day. Tomorrow will mark the 5 month mark. We are less than half a year away and honestly, that blows my mind. It all seems to have gone so fast!<br />
<br />
Even more awesomely, is that I have 36 days left until my bridal portraits with the amazingly talented Rachel Tokarski. <br />
<br />
I seriously cannot wait for the holidays because in this two week period, we will have our menu tasting, hair and makeup trial, bridal portraits, bridal shower and so much more to complete our wedding planning. <br />
<br />
I can't wait!!<br />
<br />
Mackenziehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05554702614108376478noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2858225610019595929.post-35836194285744279192013-10-26T13:28:00.000-04:002013-10-26T13:29:55.851-04:00Blo Media Day Hi all!!<br />
<br />
Extra special blog post today because I have to give a shout out to a new business that opened in Charlotte. I have been waiting for a place like this all of my life. Blo hair studio just opened in Charlotte and this hair bar offers inexpensive styling like blow outs and up-dos without being a full salon. <br />
<br />
The did a soft opening this weekend and invited some bloggers and media folks from the city to come and check it out. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-m8r1KcyCydI/Umv37ydqa2I/AAAAAAAAAnY/PcGWhwUNEVk/s1600/1379771_730993407896_1485065217_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-m8r1KcyCydI/Umv37ydqa2I/AAAAAAAAAnY/PcGWhwUNEVk/s320/1379771_730993407896_1485065217_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I was super lucky to get to be one of the bloggers they invited and check the place out and it was perfect because we are invited to a Halloween party tonight and so I had an excuse to get a funkier style.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
When I arrived I immediately started looking around because the style and feel of the place was very unique. </div>
<div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-n0NwgT6TXt4/Umv4ChvuNWI/AAAAAAAAAno/Tz1gzD3W9d0/s1600/1376556_730993093526_98142015_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-n0NwgT6TXt4/Umv4ChvuNWI/AAAAAAAAAno/Tz1gzD3W9d0/s320/1376556_730993093526_98142015_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-a8QaqN4Us40/Umv4CqDO6rI/AAAAAAAAAns/u1R947wty10/s1600/1384185_730993273166_1496311017_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-a8QaqN4Us40/Umv4CqDO6rI/AAAAAAAAAns/u1R947wty10/s320/1384185_730993273166_1496311017_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I even had a chance to look at their hair menu which consisted of the paired down list of hair services that they provided. I decided to go for the rockin modern side pony.</div>
<div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UEfz8dX0Cfw/Umv45olwptI/AAAAAAAAAn0/ZfTwNsU4j5I/s1600/1385909_730993208296_1664959134_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UEfz8dX0Cfw/Umv45olwptI/AAAAAAAAAn0/ZfTwNsU4j5I/s320/1385909_730993208296_1664959134_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I got matched up with a stylist named Sharon and we were off with a relaxing shampoo and to discuss the style that I wanted. Sharon set to work and was so nice! She offered me a mimosa (which I took of course) and magazines. She also was kind enough to take a real interest in my wedding plans which was awesome.</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jAKgsM7UThQ/Umv5QpwV8hI/AAAAAAAAAn8/KzNkqHlc1hs/s1600/996657_730993148416_825436250_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jAKgsM7UThQ/Umv5QpwV8hI/AAAAAAAAAn8/KzNkqHlc1hs/s320/996657_730993148416_825436250_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Work it Sharon!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vImGcS7UXXk/Umv5QpeitCI/AAAAAAAAAoA/C8FcsHG2Mv0/s1600/1381804_730993178356_967780085_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vImGcS7UXXk/Umv5QpeitCI/AAAAAAAAAoA/C8FcsHG2Mv0/s320/1381804_730993178356_967780085_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I managed to snap a shot somewhere in the middle of the process with my hair half done. Ridiculously sexy right? hmm..maybe not. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oYzidL3BvaQ/Umv5luWWjHI/AAAAAAAAAoM/lqG1r6BpC1A/s1600/1380163_730993238236_1583948822_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oYzidL3BvaQ/Umv5luWWjHI/AAAAAAAAAoM/lqG1r6BpC1A/s320/1380163_730993238236_1583948822_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
When she was done, I had the cutest hairstyle that she made sure to spray so it would last through Halloween festivities. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1GbUcHdC29w/Umv54dUqT8I/AAAAAAAAAoU/lbv1uEpFkKY/s1600/1381305_730993058596_758428322_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1GbUcHdC29w/Umv54dUqT8I/AAAAAAAAAoU/lbv1uEpFkKY/s320/1381305_730993058596_758428322_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Great job Sharon!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So all in all, here are the before and after shots</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9e6hgi1telQ/Umv6EszirlI/AAAAAAAAAoc/gsgWhJSfp_4/s1600/1380374_730993422866_716549514_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9e6hgi1telQ/Umv6EszirlI/AAAAAAAAAoc/gsgWhJSfp_4/s320/1380374_730993422866_716549514_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iJmIoEkoK8M/Umv6E7AIoiI/AAAAAAAAAog/RYuYL2stk1M/s1600/1382347_730993123466_1782959776_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iJmIoEkoK8M/Umv6E7AIoiI/AAAAAAAAAog/RYuYL2stk1M/s320/1382347_730993123466_1782959776_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
At the very end when I was leaving, they offered me a delicious looking sugar cookie. As you know, if you are an avid reader, I am an advocate for the 80/20 rule which means I dug into that cookie like no ones business.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QJ2xnpENF84/Umv6rZbtmYI/AAAAAAAAAow/Y4gfxSvhFNc/s1600/579066_730993043626_1870281658_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QJ2xnpENF84/Umv6rZbtmYI/AAAAAAAAAow/Y4gfxSvhFNc/s320/579066_730993043626_1870281658_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
It was an absolutely fabulous way to start off my weekend and I was happy to be a part of it!<br />
<br />
If anyone wants to check out Blo Bar, I sincerely encourage it because it would be a great opportunity right before an event or a wedding if you can't do anything with your own hair like me : )<br />
<br />
Here is their website: <a href="http://www.blomedry.com/locations/blo-charlotte/">http://www.blomedry.com/locations/blo-charlotte/</a><br />
Facebook : <a href="https://www.facebook.com/bloheartsusa?brand_redir=1">https://www.facebook.com/bloheartsusa?brand_redir=1</a><br />
<br />
<div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Mackenziehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05554702614108376478noreply@blogger.com2