Saturday, December 7, 2013

She marries the prince...

I really didn't mean for it to be over three months since I last said "hello".  My plans were big, so maybe that is why they weren't carried out- to share the little details, feelings, and fun of my sister's engagement. I was looking forward to sharing the moments with you all, but I only shared the beginning. Life changed for a few months as we prepared for her dream day, and I apologize that I haven't shared it with with you, too.

For me, dreaming of of my wedding day has been a part of my life, most likely ever since I was a flower girl in a friend's wedding.  For Susan Liana it probably was the same way with dreams starting early, though she was more quiet about it. Therefore, I never really knew her dreams, but I suppose there was no need for me to. Because when she actually planned her wedding it couldn't have been more, well, Susan Liana. Soft, glowing, and lovely all describe the bride as well as the ceremony.  I was more than blessed to be her Maid of Honor, though it was strange watching my only sister say her vows and become Mrs. Whatley.  I am very happy for her!  The day was one of the most wonderful, fun, and exciting ones I have probably ever experienced. We are all looking forward to seeing the rest of the pictures so we can relive our memories.

Here is the link to the photographers blog with some photos of the event.



Wednesday, August 21, 2013

BonLook

It is absolutely thrilling for me to introduce you lovely readers to my first sponsor: BonLook! Their eyeware is so adorable with a range of fun colors and patterns.  One of my favorite things about their glasses is the sweet vintage style! How fun they are! It just makes you want to dress the part...now go get your high heels out of retirement!

To kick-start us up they are offering $10 off your purchase! Enjoy browsing.


Shop Now and Get $10 Off your Eyewear at BonLook.com with coupon code BONLOOK10

Friday, August 16, 2013

DIY Rhinestone Bracelet


Let's say you have your eye on a dreamy piece of clothing, but you're just not in the mood to buy it. The next phase of that scenario is discontentment.  Hmm. Not a good place to be. Here is my solution to the problem: create it yourself. 

You will have the best of both worlds; creating what you love, and owning what you love.  

I really love stacked wrist attire, but I don't own too many bracelets that would pile up well. When I saw this picture it was like a lightbulb. "I can make that!". And I did.

Here is the directions so you can start stacking your wrists.
  1. Measure out how long you want the chain to be for your wrist. Cut two strands of chain and one strand of rhinestones to the before mentioned length. (My rhinestones were too long so I cut them to the proper length and reattached the end clamp.) 
  2. Attach the three ends and the clasp to a solo link of chain.
  3. Double up your embroidery thread and use it as one strand (be generous with the length, you need more than you think). 
  4. Pull the thread through the top link on one end of the bracelet, centering the strand and leaving you with a long doubled strand on each side.
  5. Weave one side down in a screw-type spiral making sure each wrap-around goes over the link between rhinestones. Do the same on the other side, mirror imaging the previous side. The back should be a row of "X"s.
  6. Tie them off at the bottom of the chain completing your bracelet!
I hope this is helpful for you!








Thursday, August 1, 2013

Paris Market

Savannah has one of my all time favorite shops sitting right on the main shopping avenue. Every time you step through the large glass doors your eyes are met with new sights, and your ears recognize the lilting sound of French music.  With papers, furniture, baby clothes, jewelry and books it makes your heart happy.

Ladies and Gentlemen let me introduce you to Paris Market.






Wednesday, July 31, 2013

Lillie Visits Savannah

Neither Lillie or I know when we became the friends we are today.  After trying to wind through our past we concluded, somewhere between eleven and two o'clock one night, that it must have been a gradual climb. We have known each other for almost every day of our lives, but, personally, from both sides we had to grow into the fact that we were both the reverse of eachother. Now, I honestly don't think we could be any better friends than we already are.

When she and a few members of her family came for the night we were able to talk her Mama into letting her stay for a few extra days. It almost never happens, and, if I gave you the probability statistics, they would be low, but sometimes things can work out! We seized the opportunity and started a project. While she was here the majority of our time was devoted to making a mini radio clip, complete with commercials, music, interviews, and radio theatre. Quite an exciting few days.

We made our way into Savannah to play tourist for a little while.  But a highlight of that trip was climbing up into our church's bell tower. Not only impressive, but very beautiful at times. 

Right before she left she gave a me a music lesson.  Since then I have been having a delightful time playing the violin. 

I'm looking forward to your next visit, Lillie!








Saturday, July 27, 2013

Engagement In The Family: Entry One

She had picked out a spot under a beautiful oak tree to watch the sunrise with her sweetheart. Having no idea that it was different than any other day, any other walk, or any other conversation, until he began his question. The question that makes your heart flutter: "Will you marry me?"

She said "Yes".





I admit the fairy tale hits harder when it becomes a reality. We have had our share of  sad feelings, tears, fears, and love, but at the end of the day we are growing under God's tender care.

My sister has always meant the world to me, but, I never knew truly to what extent, until the past few months.  When you realize your life as you have known it is about to change forever, it can steal your breath, catch in your throat, and break your heart for a moment.  She will be leaving, but she will be going to a beautiful life which God has planned for her.

Susan Liana is blossoming under these happy conditions. Excitedly awaiting the day that she will say "I do", and go to marry her prince. I don't begrudge any of her happiness, but I will miss her...we all will.

Now we have a new life to look forward to!


Tuesday, July 16, 2013

Pt. Pleasant in the summer.






This past Sunday night I had the opportunity to sing a solo at Pt. Pleasant. These sweet girls were all so encouraging and made me feel so loved and supported. What a memorable evening......

Friday, July 5, 2013

Peachtree City

 Myself, Miss Lisa, and Anna.  Anna and I are in Miss Lisa's Thursday voice class.


When you see a friend after several months, that first hug can't get much sweeter. That is just how I felt this past weekend when I saw friends, old and new. 

I made the trip up to Peachtree City for my voice Master Class with Miss Lisa. I was nervous/excited about the entire event, but all played out wonderfully. The entire weekend I tried not to be nervous about the end of class when I performed my solo...which turned out to be one of my favorite parts of the weekend! Singing Danny Boy, I don't believe, could get any better. We learned eight songs, performed in front of mirrors, sang to a buddy, and did our best to soak it all in.

That was the reason behind my trip, but I had just as much fun with our family friends. We baked something sweet (still unnamed), enjoyed the horses, fed the goats, played music, and let loose our laughter.

I miss it all....


Friday, June 21, 2013

Back To Basics

My Aunt Celesta, and her two children, Audrey Kate, and Evan, just left our house today with sadness in all our hearts. But isn't that how lovely times always feel when ended? We had a wonderful, too-short visit.

The agenda for our few days was to learn canning and a follow-up sewing lesson from their first class in April. I believe they aced the test! Aunt Celesta and Audrey Kate are great little seamstresses and Auntie can now can away!








Tuesday, May 7, 2013

Movies

Our family had a lovely evening. We met each other from all areas of our day and enjoyed dinner together. And then the climax of the evening was going to watch the new Iron Man 3! I was so excited. It is beginning to feel like the summer is arriving :).


Looking forward to Monsters University :)! See my student pass.

Monday, May 6, 2013

Celtic Woman 2013


Y'all. I don't think I've ever gotten goose bumps from anything other than cold weather. But these girls gave me thrills!  They all have a captivating stage presence, which, when it comes down to it, made me want to jump right up there with them and perform.

Playing old favorites to songs that were new, gave us all a great connection with the girls.  Having them walk down the center aisles in among the crowd, giving their song an interesting twist, was a huge highlight for me. But I especially loved She Moved Thru The Fair...Classic.

My family and I have enjoyed Celtic Woman's music since 2005 and it was an honor to be at their performance.



Tuesday, April 30, 2013

Crafty

Our craft room oozes inspiration. You can hardly walk by without being caught in the trap. In many ways that is good.

My Auntie, and her family, joined us a few weeks ago to learn how to sew. They started on paper and then at the end of class two, had made shoe bags.

I was slightly distracted by other inspirations such as jewelry making...:).


Is anyone else getting spring fever? I am in the mood to paint almost everything in the house. Color is calling my name this year.

Tuesday, April 23, 2013

Savannah Central Train Museum











We spent Friday with our family at the Savannah train museum. It was fascinating!  Various trains in their stalls were parked with their history. "If these walls could talk" says Uncle Steve, using the coined phrase, as we eat our picnic lunch on the grounds; we can only wonder what they'd say.

Sherman left Savannah intact as a gift for Lincoln, therefore he left a small part of the track and the old station for his own use.  We rode a small bit of track left over in our half hour train ride. It is not connected to the bridge which leads to the outside world, but I would love to go all the way when it is rebuilt.