Wednesday, July 30, 2014

the book love continues


Have you ever read a book after seeing the movie? Typically, I'm a classic "must read before see" kinda gal. I just can't stand someone else's vision invade my imagination. I like to picture the characters and the scene and develop them in my own mind. However, this past weekend I saw "Gone with the Wind" for the first time... and I am a changed woman. It was the 75th anniversary of the premiere, and it was shown this weekend at the historic Fox Theater, here in Atlanta, where it first premiered 75 years ago. I wasn't expecting to be so enamored by the story line, the pre-civil war fashion, and the flawless Vivien Leigh. But, alas, I have been inspired to read the book! And to make things even better, I didn't even realize I already have it! I found it at a thrift store a year ago and use it as decoration. Who knew old books used for decor could also make good reads?! ;) What about you? Any good books lately??

// Olivia de Havilland (Melanie) and Vivien Leigh (Scarlett) arriving in Atlanta for the premiere //





Image Sources: // 1. Curl up with a book // 2. Premiere Arrival 


Monday, July 28, 2014

treat yo'self


If you haven't been able to tell by my lack of blogging last week, things have been busy around here. I think the 9-5 grind is finally catching up with us (more like 8-6 for Andrew...), as we've been hitting the hay earlier and earlier each night. With family in town, a dog to sit, a new morning workout routine, dinner with new friends, and a full on marriage workshop this past weekend, we've had a full 7 previous days. Now summer will be winding down and schedules will be getting back to somewhat consistent (did I spy BOOTS at Target yesterday?! Yay! Fall is upon us.), and hopefully we can begin to build a little more of a stable routine.


In the mean time, I wanted to share a recipe that has become a new go-to for me in the busy mornings. About two months ago, I cut out all meat, dairy, wheat, and sugar from my diet. It's been a slow transformation, and transformation is the key word. I still allow myself some exceptions on some occasions, but for the most part, I want the food I eat to be mainly fruit, vegetables, seeds, beans, lentils, etc. So... that can leave one to wonder "what in the world do I eat that is actually filling and doesn't require hours of preparation and exotic ingredients?" I give you... Chia Pudding. 

Have you ever had Chia seeds? I fell in love about a year and a half ago when Andrew's mother introduced them to me. Here's the trick- you let them sit in water for about 10 minutes, and they form a gel like layer around the seed and soak up the water, leaving you with a pudding like consistency- think tapioca. So, if the texture of rice pudding sends shivers down your spine, then this recipe is not for you. But, if you want a clean digestive system and a fun texture party in your mouth, scoop away.



Jenna's Chia Pudding

Ingredients:
1/4 Cup Organic Chia Seeds
2/3 Cup Water
2/3 Cup Organic Blueberries
2/3 Cup Organic Strawberries (cut into bite-size pieces)
1 Tbs Coconut flakes (optional)

Directions:
Mix chia seeds and water in a normal size bowl and place in refrigerator. 
Let sit for 10-20 minutes, or until all liquid is gone consistency is thick and gel-like.
Gently mix in blueberries, strawberries (or other desired fruit), and optional coconut flakes. 

That's it! Quick, easy, and simple food that still tastes great and leaves you feeling like you truly love your body and treat it well. I also usually have a banana or a green smoothie for a little extra filling (my morning hunger trumps most). Give it a try, play around with it, and let me know what recipes you create!

xoxo

P.S. Have a sweet tooth and need a little more "oomph"? Check out this Vanilla Chia Pudding recipe. 
(And source of these lovely images.)



Friday, July 18, 2014

summer weekend


Hope you have a wonderful weekend! Enjoy these fun links from around the internets :)


A whole lotta yum.

To every person at every wedding, graduation, and concert...

It's just too long of a wait.

True for us all, even into our twenties :)

Looking for a semi-private getaway?

Another perspective on millenials...

Old people and technology.

xo


Image found here //

Wednesday, July 16, 2014

woodsy whimsy


I've seen this wedding before floating around pinterest or something of the likes, but I stumbled across the actual photographer's post the other day and I am even more in love with this intimate middle of the woods wedding.


This bride seems to be one of the few people on earth who could pull off a black and white wedding dress, and her boots just absolutely kill me. So adorable.



The beautiful thing about this wedding is that from the pictures, it seems to be that they and the officiant (and the photographer, of course) are the only witnesses. I couldn't ever have gotten married without at least my family there, but there's something so romantic and authentic about it being just the two of them. Skip all the fuss and and stress of wedding planning, and all you're left with is your love.


And if a gorgeous ceremony in the woods wasn't breathtaking enough? Let's go check out the views just a few steps away...






See the rest of the beauty here.

xo

Tuesday, July 15, 2014

ritas and roses


Happy Birthday to this pretty lady who I love and adore. We intended to celebrate the night with Mexican food (birthday girl's fave), but had to change the plan last minute and got swanky at Five Bar. And we still found a way to fit in our "Mexican" margaritas ;) There's something so refreshing about being with friends who know your heart and have walked with you in life's heaviest trials and most wonderful celebrations. Even though new friendships are thrilling, these college friendships, formed at such a transformative time in life, feel like home. Would you agree? 


Roses, homemade cake (made by hostess extraordinaire and birthday girl's sister), and wine... all contribute to a girly evening watching The Bacheleorette and rooting on former Georgia Bulldawg (and friend to some), Josh Murray, while he tries to win the heart of this season's "it girl." While this show is not my cup of tea, girl time with these ladies definitely is. Do you ever look at your friends and just think, "I have a powerhouse of women surrounding me." I feel so blessed to have such godly women who love Jesus and have such pure, tender hearts.


My heart is full and I thank my husband for the night with the ladies :) Hope you have been able to get some good time or have good conversations with those close to your heart! It's good for the soul and so needed.


xoxo

Monday, July 14, 2014

your path


Reading this morning, and struck with awe at the thought that whatever path I may be on, is that exact one that God has hand-picked for me. Whatever cross I carry or sorrow I meet, or whatever laughter I find, is all delivered by Him and is chosen personally for me- and I can use this as a way to grow intimately with my Creator. What path has He hand selected for you? Rejoice, because it is yours and you are His. 


"You have made known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand." 
-Psalm 16:11




Image found here //

Saturday, July 12, 2014

refresh


What are your plans this weekend? We were a part of a moving worship night last night, and today I am working at a wedding with this lovely lady again. I'm looking forward to little down time in between. Hope you have a refreshing weekend! Here are just a few links from around the internets :)

Let's do it :)

Did you read the book? Will you see the movie?

It's relieving when you can accept it.

The other side to "White Privilege."

Hot mama.

Anyone getting the fall football itch?


xoxo


Image found here //

Thursday, July 10, 2014

oh, canada


Looking for something pretty to stare at? Check at the instagram account "Up Knorth." There is a beautiful display of outdoor scenes- I can almost feel the cool mountain air amidst this southern heat (*almost*). I'd have a pretty awesome Instagram, too, if I lived in a place like this (so I tell myself...)


stay cool. xo



Wednesday, July 9, 2014

timeless tradition


It has been a privilege to assist several wedding planners and photographers over the last 9 months or so. One of my favorite things about it comes long after the vows have been said and the guests have grooved- the photographs. I love being able to see behind the scenes, and watch how such talented photographers bring that day back to life through their photographs.



At the beginning of the summer, I was able to assist my good friend and wedding planner with an absolutely gorgeous and timeless wedding. The photos are up, and I am excited to pass on the link to you.


The bride, Alysha, was completely beautiful as she wore the same dress both her grandmother and mother wore for their weddings. I love the more casual and outdoorsy feel of weddings today, but there's something about tradition that just pulls at my heart strings. It really connects your love today with the love of all of the people that have loved before you.


The sweet Haley Sheffield is oh so talented. See the rest of the pictures from this day on her blog here.

xo



(Second and Third pictures are mine, all others belong to and are property of Haley Sheffield Photography)

Friday, July 4, 2014

Happy 4th!


Happy Independence Day! What are your plans? We are off to run the Peachtree Road Race with family- hoping we don't sweat our brains out!  I'm looking forward to a chill holiday weekend post race- we are in need of a weekend with no plans, which is exactly what we have once we get this little 10K out of the way :) Hope you have a great weekend! Here are a few links for you to enjoy.

Smiles :)

Intuitive Eating seems like a peaceful way to live.

We are having a bit of a different 4th than last year...

So lovely.

Perfect hot summer day treat.

Go for an adventurous (and secret) dip.

And a bonus for your holiday.

xo



Image found here //

Thursday, July 3, 2014

Happy Birthday, Mama!


Happiest of birthdays to my mama- who has the tenderest of hearts, the perfect sense of humor, and is a total knockout. I am happy to claim that she gave me her legs and her eyes (along with a few other "assets"...), and I hope one day to see within me her humble wisdom and compassionate spirit. 



Babe. Even in prime 80's fashion.


She's so funny, she landed herself on the popular website "When Parents Text"! 


She also knows how to make some pretty cute babies :)



Happy Birthday, Mom! We love you.


xoxo

Wednesday, July 2, 2014

this week's wanderlust




I recently discovered a new favorite on Instagram. Maybe I am late to the party, but this lady is now providing me with some serious eye candy. Her photographs are breathtaking, and it certainly doesn't hurt that she's recently been traveling and camping in some of the United States' most gorgeous parks. Take a look for yourself, and enjoy a mini mental vacation as you are whisked away by daydreams of open mountain air and serene landscapes. 








Visit Julia Manchick's blog here.