Southern Sunshine

Blog Browsin'

2012-01-14T16:47:00.001-05:00

A little tagging fun y'all! This gave me something to do on this chilly NC Saturday!

The Rules:
1. You must post the rules.

2. Post eleven facts about yourself on the blog post.

3. Answer the questions the tagger set for you in their post,
and then create eleven new questions for the people you’ve tagged.

4. Tag eleven people and link them on your post.

5. Let them know you’ve tagged them

Details about Me!
1. I LOVE celebrating birthdays. It's fun to party, hang out with family and friends but most importantly, it's such an awesome time to thank God for the daily bread that He provides to me. This year I will be celebrating my golden birthday, 25 on the 25th! Yay!

These are my cousins from a family birthday party two years ago! Wow, how time flies!

2. You will find me singing the shower, in the car, while cleaning, to my puppy, while on jogs, in my classroom, etc. I LOVE to sing. And in college, I was in the Christian a capella singing group. How I miss it!

3. I love living in Raleigh but I certainly miss the saltwater. I spent many Saturdays as a little girl playing the sound, on the boat, or heading to the beach to play along the shore. I pray that Grant and I can one day have a small cottage in Morehead where my family lives so we can bring our children to visit the grandparents/family and experience the beach like I did. For now, we are so gracious that my parents have us stay with them -- it's like having standing reservations at a b&b!

4. I don't go anywhere without sunglasses. Otherwise, I'll be that awkward girl who has tears in her eyes because the sun is so bright. I hate squinting! My wonderful husband always has an extra pair for me. He knows me well!

5. My family and I love celebrating our Scottish heritage -- Henderson Clan, hurrah!

Daddy and I at the Grandfather Mountain Highland Game -- July 2010

6. Like Kim, I can fit in odd, small places. The funny part, is that for some odd reason, I'm always curious to see about whether I can fit. And sadly, I'm claustrophobic so I usually don't learn my lesson and end up FREAKING out once I get slightly stuck. I know, I'm weird.

7. I could spend an hour blowing bubbles at babies and watching them chase them. Could do that with puppies too.

8. Not a bikini fan. 'Nough said!

But doesn't Cam look awesome in her two-piece?!

9. I have two wonderful grandmothers and I spent my entire childhood living less than fifteen minutes from both of them. What a blessing! I love their dedication to their church and faith.

10. Smiling is my favorite thing to do. Ever. I'll probably have crows feet before I'm 30...oh well! It's worth it!

11. I married a huge Tar Heel. I bleed Wolfpack Red. It makes for an interesting marriage. I had this picture done to show my "love" for my husband... hahaha!

Kim's Question's for Me!
1. What is your favorite game to play?
My favorite game to play is Apples to Apples -- I'm not very good at it but it's still fun!

2. What is something you do in your spare time just for yourself?
I LOVE painting my nails. My MIL just got me a Shellac kit for Christmas (she knows me well!). While living in our sorority house, my roommate and I did a lot of self-manicures...everyone joked that when you walked in our room (read: closet), you would smell either acetone or polish!

3. What is the most important trait to have in a marriage or relationship?
Patience. Grant, my husband, is the most patient man I know. I'm working on more patience...

4. Where is your favorite vacation spot?
I'd have to say Australia -- that entire continent is fabulous.

5. What is your favorite meal?
Shrimp and Grits! Easy!

6. What is your favorite Bible verse?
James 1: 2-4 -- Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters,whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.

7. If you could visit one state/city in the USA what would it be?
The next place on my list is New York City -- I have been twice already and I can't wait to go back! Theater, shopping, fashion, Central Park, and the list goes on!

8. What is the best surprise you ever received?
My engagement ring! I was very ready to be engaged but Grant still surprised the heck out of me!

9. What is your favorite weekend activity?
Going on long walks with Grant and Sawyer, looking at beautiful homes and then grabbing coffee and a sweet treat before heading home.

10. What are you afraid of?
I'm afraid of being infertile. If that is God's plan, I know He will carry me through it.

11. What do you hope 2012 has in store?
Grant and I have started the process of joining a wonderful church in Raleigh -- I'd like to create stronger friendships within the community group. The friends we have made so far are solid, intentional Christians who love life. So great.

My Questions For Y'all
1. What is your favorite candy and why?
2. Who has influenced your faith the most?
3. Are you a shower at night person or shower in the morning?
4. What is your favorite meal to cook?
5. What do you like to do in your spare time?
6. What is the best gift that you've ever received?
7. If you could vacation with anyone, who would it be?
8. What's the best book you've ever read?
9. Where would your dream house be located?
10. Who was your favorite teacher?
11. What's your dream job?

Who wants to play?
Emily at Living our own fairytale
Caroline at Polka Dots and Protein Bars
Regina at Stately Lady
Hopsy at Monograms and Manicures
Katie at According to Katie
Sarah at the zesty baker
Kelley at The Eanes Family
Annie at Classic Annie
MJ at Teaching in Heels
Natalie at Sweet Carolina Girl
Jordan at Classy from North to South

Have fun everyone!

Twirl and Spin...

2012-01-03T19:54:00.000-05:00

Many of you might not know but for almost fifteen years, this southern sunshine was a ballerina. Not a fabulous one. But just a dancer who loved spending time in the studio with friends, learning ballet technique! I came to love performing and even taught a few classes. I have spent mannnnnny hours at Dance Arts Studio studying under wonderful teachers whom I miss dearly.

When I moved to Raleigh for school in 2005, no studio compared. Teachers didn't know me, I was in a room full of strangers, and it wasn't "home". Thus began my four year long stint of ballet/tap/jazz/pointe "less" life. Sad day, right?!

Fast forward to 2009 and I moved back home to teach in my home town. It didn't take much convincing for me to start dancing again with the "adult" class -- when I say adult, we were all pretty young and severa seniors that year danced with us. It was great fun! I even did pointe again!

Image by Bob Stuart Photography

So that inspired me and now, my friends, I took a ballet fitness class at the Y last night and it felt great! I hadn't done a tendu in almost a year and a half...my muscles are feeling it today. Any one else getting into a "new" hobby for 2012? I am so energized and can't wait to see how the rest of the year goes with this class.

Note: in ballet class, we don't use the phrases: twirl or spin. That title just sounds better than pirouette and chaîné... I think Mrs. Julie would have my head if I used twirl and spin...

Christmas Vacation

2012-01-02T01:24:00.000-05:00

So my wonderfully extended Christmas vacation was delightful...to put it mildly!

I shopped, wrapped presents, entertained, read (a LOT!), baked, played, lunched, brunched, gifted, crafted, and best of all, spent quality time with friends and family.My vacation comes to a close in less than 24 hours and I will greet my second graders with big smiles on Wednesday morning. I'm also excited to get back to school to see my good friends at work and get into a solid routine for 2012. So speaking of the new year, I think I've decided upon two goals. Here we go!

Resolution 1: make healthy choices (pretty open ended, right? but I really stink at sticking to a "resolution") -- I'm excited about a new ballet fitness class at the Y and Mom gave me a new headband to keep my ears warm so no excuses on those cold winter days for a good, long run! Grant and I have been staying away from processed foods, dairy, fat and sugar for several weeks now so I'd like to continue that. We'll see!

Resolution 2: be more patient while driving. I really need to just say Scripture out loud instead of raising my voice at the cars that can't hear me! They can't help it if they're ignorant to their left-lane-go-slow-obsession...right?

And since photo posts are more exciting and than just rambling, here are a few phone snapshots from our low-key holiday....

Sawyer on Christmas morning...I promise, we don't always mommick him in such ways. Just on special occasions!

On Christmas evening, Grant went to get some shots of the sunset with the AB bridge in the background. Sawyer had to join in on the fun! I captured this shot from the warm car with my phone. It was such a sweet moment.

Found some time to peruse the racks at Talbots before joining Grant for lunch last week. I had taken this photo in the dressing room (not a notable pastime for me...hah!) and he immediately convinced me to get this 70% off steal of a blazer! What do y'all think? I can't wait to layer with this during the cool/cold months in Raleigh.

On New Year's Eve, at Smith Mountain Lake. We loved spending time at the Linderman lake house! I think that sunset is taste of how beautiful heaven will be!

What are your resolutions for Twenty-Twelve?

A Christmas Carol

2011-12-15T13:31:00.001-05:00

Grant and I joined his family to go see A Christmas Carol put on by Theatre in the Park of RaleighIt was awesome! Being somewhat "new" to Raleigh (read: not having lived here all my life) I had never seen Ira David Wood III's take on this traditional story. We definitely laughed a lot!

Guitar

2011-09-26T17:45:00.004-04:00

Big news!

Grant is teaching me how to play the guitar. Now, I haven't shared this with many friends so I'm telling you all to keep me accountable. Instead of watching one Design Inc on HGTV (shout out to Sarah Richardson...she is amazing) in the evenings, I'm going to challenge myself to learn another chord...or practice the ones that need it! So far, I've attempted A, E, and B. I can play-ish a good old worship song from middle school: Light the Fire! Who remembers it?!

Speaking of music, my dear friend, Caroline, who is equally obsessed with Amy Grant as much as I am, is ENGAGED! Best wishes to a beautiful bride!

Celebration

2011-08-02T10:42:00.004-04:00

Much like the day we were married, the summer temperatures soared into the low 100's. Ridiculous! Grant and I made a unanimous decision to stay indoors! We spent a week celebrating with friends and family and enjoyed several concerts together. I dubbed this week Music Mania -- it was awesome!

So I had typed all the details, added the links, videos, pictures...and then it just all disappeared. Oh, technology. Boo!

Here's the breakdown:

Friday - The Craig Thompson Band and Blue Dogs at Lincoln Theatre

Wednesday - Josh Ritter at Cat's Cradle

Thursday - Amy Grant and Michael W. Smith at Koka Booth Amphitheatre

I'm heading back out to school to get everything ready for the beginning of another great year!

Quick shout out to our wonderful family and friends who helped us celebrate with concerts, pampering, and my wonderful husband who treats me a like a queen!

Distraction

2011-07-30T14:58:00.002-04:00

Okay -- who all out there has been sucked into the lovely, resourceful land of Pinterest?

I can't stop!

Yikes! Eye Candy!

One year ago...

2011-07-24T17:42:00.004-04:00

We walked down the aisle as husband and wife!

Happy anniversary Grant! I love you.

Country Road

2011-07-19T19:44:00.007-04:00

Grant and I ventured to West Virginia a few weekends ago with my nana and poppy. We had a GREAT time visiting with family friends at their cabin and enjoying God's gorgeous creation. The pastures, muddy trails, river, cool mornings, and stubborn cows made for a great long weekend. Here are some pictures of our weekend!

We did have to leave Sawyer at the kennel for the first time -- I have to admit, I shed a few tears when I had to say goodbye. Let me tell you...he was a HAPPY and tired puppy when we returned. See for yourself!

Project!

2011-06-21T19:06:00.004-04:00

A while back I posted about recovering the chairs in our dining room. Grant helped me pick out a fabric from a local fabric outlet store and we went to town. I ended up having one yard of fabric left over...and that evening I also saw this post by Jenny of the Little Green Notebook for a pelmet tutorial so I started scheming. After Grant got home from work that next evening, we ventured to Michael's and purchased foam core boards. They were on sale so we only spent about $3.00 that evening!

I did take pictures along the way as I worked on the pelmet boxes for each window. Please let me know if you want to see those and know of all the steps involved! I give my husband all the credit for helping me hang those things...light (because I used foam core) but still tricky to adhere.

Please excuse the Droid picture...I was too excited to wait for Grant to snap a clear shot.

The pelmets add more character to our dining room; I'm in love! We had guests here for the weekend and they couldn't believe I made them. Me either!

Summer Reading...

2011-06-14T12:31:00.002-04:00

I've got a few titles for you! Since I have more free time now, I have been reading for at least an hour before bed or in the afternoons.

I read Water for Elephants last week and thoroughly enjoyed this historical fiction novel. There are parts that are slightly "racy" and I've been more apprehensive about recommending it to others for that reason. The writer makes the 1930s setting quite realistic; sometimes I think that I was born in the wrong era. I LOVE the flashiness of the 20s and 30s! The main character in this story is an elderly man who is full of humor and even flaws, which makes him easy to relate to. I certainly enjoyed the circus train setting and the descriptive plot, as the performers, menagerie, and roustabouts become so vivid!

I'm about half way through reading Half Broke Horses by Jeanette Walls. I read her older novel The Glass Castle back in 2005. I was very excited to begin this new story about her true life account of her grandmother, Lily Casey. This book has already brought me to tears and it makes me want to travel out west!

What are you reading this summer?

Next on the list is The Paris Wife.

Monday Musings

2011-06-13T17:21:00.003-04:00

1. Recovering the dining room chairs tonight! Will post pictures of the before and after, have no fear. I wanted to do something like this:

(image from styleathome.com)

But was vetoed by Grant...and he has always been very supportive in my interior choices so I knew I better compromise. Haha!
We ended up going with a floral piece that has fun colors and is slightly less bold!

2. I've loved having more time free to experiment with recipes and I found two new ones that I tried last week. They were a huge hit with the family!

Pulled Pork

Found this recipe from a college friend:
Chocolate Chip Cake Cookies
They were AH-mazing!

3. Missing my students but I received a letter from one little gal yesterday! It absolutely made my day.

Celebration!

2011-04-19T16:27:00.004-04:00

This is my 100th blogpost! When I started this blog, I had a LOT more free time and interest in writing. I would have predicted that I would hit my one hundredth post long before now! Between a new job, husband, new house, and new city, I'm good if I can sift through my Google Reader! Anyway, happy celebration -- two reasons to celebrate: pup's first birthday and my 100th post!

Here is a blogpost written by my students:
Mrs. Linderman got a new puppy in January and his name is Sawyer. He will turn one on April 23rd!

Here are our ideas for how Sawyer should celebrate his first birthday:

From Paxton, age 8 (almost 9!),
For Sawyer's 1st birthday, you should give him a treadmill and tie a bone to the handles so he will chase it and even, maybe, get a tv fro him to watch sports or something. That's how I would celebrate his birthday.

From Sarah Curtis, age 8,
For Sawyer's birthday, I would buy him a birthday hate, a huge bone, and dog cake. Then, put the birthday hat on him and give him a huge iece of dog cake and put the huge bone on top! That is how I would celebrate Sawyer's birthday!

From Anna, age 8,
You should get cookies for Sawyer's b-day but you have to get the type of cookies for dogs, or you can get a medium size bone. But for the party, invite just two dogs so it won't get too crazy!

From Tanner, age 8,
If I could attend Sawyer's first birthday, I would...
First, I would have to think of a theme...maybe Super Sawyer or Sir Sawyer the Great. Then, you woul dhave to buy all of the goodies for Super Sawyer like a cape, a piñata, or a sculpture or a Sawyer mobile! That is what I would do for Sawyer's birthday.

From Mrs. Linderman: We'll be celebrating at the beach; hopefully he'll get into the ocean this time! Maybe he can wear a birthday hat too... :)

Student...like teacher.

2011-03-15T11:53:00.004-04:00

One of our friends decided to do a reading group all on his own! And this was during Free Choice Centers... haha!

They love Diary of a Wimpy Kid...

He's such a leader!

My week...

2011-03-14T16:22:00.004-04:00

Here's my week in numbers...ready?

10 - Number of times I wanted to have a Diet Coke today (I gave it up for Lent)

9 - Number of times I shouted at the referees during the UNC vs. Duke game. I still say GO Heels! PS -- I watched the games while wearing my NC State sweatshirt. I have a strong disdain for Duke and I'm married to a Tar Heel.

8 - Number of times I've thought about writing a blog post but got distracted by something more pressing :(

7 - Number of chicken wings I consumed during Grant's birthday party. SPICY!

6 - Number of days before Grant's official birthday...no gift purchased...yikes. Ideas anyone?

5 - Number of days before one of my most special friends get hitched to her sweetheart! I love you RLE!

4 - Number of prescription medicine bottles I've got in my purse right now...no fun!

3 - Number of times I've visited Urgent Care this week

2 - Number of times Sawyer has had an accident inside our house

1- Number of kidney stones I've passed. Thank God it was only one.

Technology

2011-02-15T12:40:00.006-05:00

We've been busy in second grade this year! One of my obsessions this year is creating lessons that involve using Smart Board technology. Unfortunately, I will not receive a Smart Board until next year (hopefully and prayerfully!). Here is a video of my students when I told them that we would be using the classroom next door for their SMART BOARD! (Apologies for the poor quality!)

Lucy

2011-01-22T10:07:00.003-05:00

One of my students, Lucy, told her mother yesterday that she "might need to go to Mrs. Linderman's house so she can practice doing hair so when she gets a baby girl she will know how to fix her hair"...

Hilarious. I love seven year olds. She reminded me yesterday that February 1st is her birthday eve.

Our new obsession!

2011-01-22T09:25:00.002-05:00

We've added a member to our family! (No, not a baby...)

Meet Sawyer!

He will be nine months old tomorrow! Sawyer is a yellow labrador mix -- he was rescued at twelve weeks by another family outside of Raleigh. We are so blessed to have found this pup who needed to be rehomed.

So far, he has been very well behaved! He loves his rope toys (which I have banned from our home because of all the strings he leaves behind after a chewing session!), tennis balls, and plastic Kongs filled with peanut butter.

He loves to lick but thankfully doesn't slobber much; he's a king at using his sniffer and always obeys to not follow me upstairs with his shedding yellow/white fur coat. Sawyer's a winner!

Guest room!

2011-01-04T07:31:00.002-05:00

We have finally put together our guest room! Grant and I have enjoyed finding thrift store or great deals and making them work for our house. It was GREAT to have a break from school to use days to search for deals and plan out our room and guest bath. I cannot wait for more friends to visit!

Brittany and Andrew stayed with us, as our first overnight guests!

Crazy!

2010-12-21T16:49:00.003-05:00

I got this email from PB today:
10% Discount Offer on Pottery Barn Wedding & Gift Registry Expires in One Month

Which means that we have been married for five months come Christmas Eve! It is hard to believe and quite crazy how time flies once you grow older. Anyone else noticed this?

Is everyone ready for Christmas?

We are all decorated, wrapped, and will be packed in two days for the beach! Merry Christmas!

My sweet husband.

2010-12-12T21:10:00.003-05:00

He gives me too much credit...

Click on the link below to see what it's like for me to be behind the camera! It's rare!

Grant's thoughts about our Christmas decor...

My students.

2010-12-08T07:09:00.004-05:00

Have I mentioned how sweet and fun my group of second graders is?

We have a great time together. Our class has created a blog so we can share our creative writings and other activities with friends and family virtually!

Mrs. Linderman's Little Learners

PS -- the lovely group picture of us was taken when North Carolina had that brief spurt of autumn. How I miss the warm sunshine...

I think I've whined enough about the cold, biting weather this week...

Family.

2010-11-29T07:33:00.004-05:00

Every year my daddy's side of the family gathers together for days on end to celebrate our blessings. This year, we had our dinner at my parent's house instead of my grandparents -- it was exciting to start a new tradition!

My MaMa wanted a picture made of the grandchildren...and it was quite a feat! We had a blessed time and it was fun to visit with everyone since Grant and I make it home only once a month or less.

How was your Thanksgiving holiday?

Proud.

2010-11-18T07:15:00.002-05:00

I am so proud of my husband. He is amazingly talented! I can brag because I'm the blessed gal that married him...

www.grantlinderman.com

The Dress

2010-11-06T19:39:00.006-04:00

I've been able to share my wedding dress "hunt" with few friends...but not yet with all you wonderful people! I received many compliments on the last wedding post so I thought I would go into more detail on my most favorite dress of all time.

I was in one of my best friend's wedding in January (only two weeks after being engaged!) when another friend in the bridal party showed me a picture of a bride on her smartphone. She told me I HAD to see this bride because her dress was "so Averi". It was love at first sight. I emailed the bride to inquire...and putting out a disclaimer that I would buy the dress from her...if I could not find it on my own. Luckily for me, her dress was a custom made LulaKate, the Christy.

I immediately searched their website to find the closest store that carried the LulaKate line. Sure enough, a boutique in Raleigh had just started carrying this fabulous line. They specialize in bridal parties but also create wedding gowns for those classic, yet flirty brides. I made an appointment with Erin at Bella Bridesmaid in Raleigh and made sure that my mother, sister, future MIL, and at least one of my beautiful bridesmaid could attend! January 10th, dress purchased, after twenty minutes of looking at fabric swatches (silk shantung was the winner), getting measured, and trying on a few of the LulaKate styles, I knew the Christy dress was perfect for me. The entire appointment was less than thirty minutes. Record timing. For sure...

The ruffle, the bow, and the swish of the fabric had me at hello. So add my mother's veil that I tweaked slightly (removed the 1980's Juliet cap), yellow shoes thanks to Chiara (bridesmaid), vintage pearl earrings thanks to Corinne (one of the lovely maids of honor), and a sweet diamond cross from my father in law, and we had a BRIDE!

Still can't believe I'm married...!

100th Day!

2010-11-02T07:26:00.003-04:00

Yesterday, Grant and I celebrated our 100th day of marriage. I could hardly believe it. Our celebration included a quick ChickFilA dinner, bible study, and then an episode of HIMYM, with some laundry thrown in. I guess we are already becoming old married folk?!

{image by my Aunt De from Summer 2009)}

I have been overwhelmed lately with missing my family at the beach...we are attempting to make Thanksgiving plans during which we will juggle being at the beach and traveling to the lake. I am blessed to have such wonderful aunts, uncles, grandparents, parents, and cousins that will allll be in the same place for the week of Thanksgiving. Grant and I also love spending time with his family. Sadly and unlike how I was raised, families are clear across the state...

Summer?

2010-10-28T22:38:00.002-04:00

Today I dressed for the weather...

Shorts. V neck tee. Sperry's. I threw on a pashmina for a seasonal touch...

Wait. It is fall right? I later removed the scarf.

Because it was definately 82 degrees, sunny, and humid today...with a touch of "balmy"...

It is almost November! And happy birthday to the bride to be, Stately Lady!

Wedding Photography! Getting Ready.

2010-10-26T13:25:00.007-04:00

We have finally received the digital files of our wedding day photography. We are patiently waiting for the video coverage! :)

I wanted to share a few of my favorites from the morning of our special day.

My bridesmaids and family can attest that I stayed calm, collected, and slightly nostalgic the entire morning. We were able to sleep in at the hotel and put on ptretty dresses for a bridesmaids' breakfast at the club. After our brunch, we slipped downstairs to begin getting ready. My sweet friend Meredith, bridesmaid as well, did my hair after a few trial runs from the night before. I did my eye make up and lips while Mere did my foundation. Surprisingly, it didn't all sweat away!

I will post more pictures in chronological order with little details as we go!

Weight.

2010-10-21T12:00:00.002-04:00

In second grade this morning, we were defining the word "scale" and I used the word in a sentence.

I told them the following: "When I got on the scale to measure my weight this morning, I had lost two pounds."

My sweet comedian Wade's response: Congratulations Mrs. Linderman!

Welcome!

2010-10-10T17:34:00.006-04:00

Our home is slowly becoming more cozy! Take a peek at a few of our rooms...

We plan to add an area rug to our kitchen/breakfast area!
Grant and I love our house. God is good!

Hope.

2010-09-21T19:35:00.001-04:00

This video will speak for itself.

Bow ties!

2010-09-14T09:35:00.002-04:00

My phenomenal husband designed the sweet bow ties for our wedding and now we have Vineyard Vines custom bow ties for sale! If you like them, comment on this post and I can get you squared away for a great price of $55.00.

Let me know!

Married!

2010-08-06T23:02:00.002-04:00

Wow. Well, I guess I didn't get many details blogged BEFORE the wedding...so you all get to see the results when we receive our wedding photography files!

Grant did post a honeymoon post -- my laptop died about a month before the wedding so...I'm borrowing his in the mean time!

Check out Martha's Vineyard!

www.grantlinderman.com

I'm a Linderman now! YAHOOOO!

And school starts next Monday :)

Attire

2010-07-15T09:50:00.005-04:00

Here begins some detailing of our wedding as we lead up to the big day!

Bridesmaids: With ten beautiful women needing to be dressed in something light, airy, summery, and classic, I chose the J. Crew Sophia Short dress in silk tricotine. We got an amazing deal on the dresses because they were on final clearance. I was super nervous as we ordered them but they all look wonderful on each friend/sister. The color is Mediterranean Blue.

Groomsmen and Grant: The guys will be donning sweet black tuxedos each with a black cummerbund. Here comes the sass: Grant and I knew we wanted something original for the bow tie. Naturally, we talked with a friend at Southern Proper and thought we had picked out the perfect pattern and scored a great deal on all 12. This fell through.

Via new friends in Elizabethtown, we know own close to 40 bow ties through Vineyard Vines. Grant created a custom logo and they put it into print for us! We are really excited because the yellow in the tie and blue in the tie coordinate well with our wedding day color scheme.

Bridal Gown: Going to keep this one under wraps BUT I will share that I went to Bella Bridesmaid in January and already knew the dress design for me. I went with a LulaKate design, the fabric in a silk shantung and the dress is floor length. I'm also wearing my mother's veil!

Going Away Garb: This is potentially my new favorite aspect of our attire for the day! I recently received my new Hems & Hers dress, designed by Caroline (bridesmaid) with "fabric print selection assistance" by another one of my bridesmaids. I am so blessed with talented friends! The dress fits like a glove and Grant is going to love it! He will be wearing khaki pants, loafers, a navy suit jacket, and white oxford.

Confession.

2010-07-09T10:05:00.002-04:00

Throughout the wedding planning process, I have had so many wonderful blogs for inspiration! I have to admit, I have been slightly intimidated to post any specifics about our wedding and I had no idea where to begin.

Anything that you guys want to know about our special day?

In Progress

2010-07-07T19:26:00.004-04:00

Hello friends!

So we are almost two weeks away to our wedding day. I'm so excited that I can hardly stand it...

This picture from our engagement session says it all:

{Image by Jessica Key Fine Photography}

And once we return from our honeymoon, we will get settled into our new home.

J-O-B

2010-06-21T10:07:00.003-04:00

Friends!

I'm officially employed! Grant and I are making sweet progress on our check off list!

I will start teaching second grade at St. David's School in August!

We've also booked our honeymoon -- we are staying at The Kelley House Hotel in Edgartown, Martha's Vineyard!

Absurd.

2010-06-14T14:31:00.002-04:00

Grant and I are homeowners! We have created our own rendition to the tune of We Got a Dollar from the movie the Little Rascals. Check out these kiddos...

We Got a Dollar

And now see our lyrics:

We bought a house, we bought a house,
We bought a house, HEY HEY HEY HEY!

You may now proceed to imagine us belting out this tune in our new, spacious North Raleigh home...yep, funny.

Today!

2010-05-25T11:48:00.003-04:00

11 days before my bridesmaids weekend here in Morehead City!
14 days before school is out!
21 days before we close on our home in Raleigh!
61 days before Grant and I get married!

Guess who may have a job interview coming up for a GREAT teaching job in Raleigh?
ME!
Oh happy day...

Poolside

2010-05-10T14:41:00.002-04:00

This is how we spent Mother's Day: relaxing by our pool. Nice, yes?

However, Monday morning came full force...and these kids have forgotten everything they know...just in time for the End of Grade cumulative test. Yay. Not.

Summer

2010-05-04T06:28:00.003-04:00

Ladies (and gentlemen?),

Summer is in reach. I can smell it. Because of this beautiful fact, it is all I can do to get through this school year, keep pulling all details together for our wedding, and remain patient.

Since I am a pitiful blogger because of said reasons, here is my future husband's post from this last weekend. I thought you might enjoy knowing that I didn't fall off the earth.

CGL II

81 days until I'm marrying my best friend. Ecstatic! And -- every weekend until 07.24.10 is booked. Crazy!

Vacuum.

2010-03-31T17:39:00.004-04:00

I have to say I don't mind having to vacuum the sand out of my car almost daily. I love the beach. I love the sun. Life is good.

And praying for my dear friend Line.

Honeymoon Help!

2010-03-28T19:58:00.002-04:00

We've narrowed it down to either Edgartown or Nantucket.

Grant and I have never been to either New England destination so what are the perks of each? Do you all have honeymoon advice for us soon-to-be newlyweds?

Only in my class...

2010-03-17T12:09:00.002-04:00

Today, four of my boys had "Lunch with a Buddy" and only in my classroom would I overhear the following topics:

"first big fish"
"best fishing line"
"best bait"
fish for dinner"
"biggest red drum caught this year"
"fish got off the line"
"you're lucky you caught that drum"
"worms for the small fish"
"caught my king mackerel with a little tuna"

Notice a trend?
Three cheers for teaching at the Crystal Coast.

Whew!

2010-02-15T09:09:00.003-05:00

Finally :)

www.grantandaveri.com

July 25...

2010-02-09T21:50:00.002-05:00

That would be the date that the Boy and I will hope depart for our honeymoon. Where you ask?

That's up for the toss.

We are thinking somewhere like: Bar Harbor, Nantucket, Martha's Vineyard, Edgartown, Lamberts Cove...

Suggestions? Ideas?

We are also on a small budget. Please help!

Mis estudiantes

2010-02-03T20:03:00.002-05:00

My students.

They crack me up. So...I guess I will continue to blog about them and maybe wedding details, if you're lucky. I am just so exhausted after a long day of teaching that I barely have energy to hop over to the computer. (My lap top is sick...)

Anyway, on Monday, I asked for suggestions for a reward for our classroom behavior incentive. We've already done Board Game Day, Dance Party, & Christmas Craft Day.
I thought I would ask for their ideas!

I received the following responses:

"Let's have a pizza party! With punch!"

"No, with soda!"

"Yeah, I can bring my drinking helmet!" -George

"We can have a chugging party."

"Let's have a hot tub party, yahooooooo!"

I teach third grade. And these children are innocent. Really. They're only 8 years old. Born in 2001.

By the end of the class meeting, we decided on a hot chocolate and cookie party.
Wholesome. Yes.

Check list.

2010-01-13T09:49:00.002-05:00

Church, check.
Country Club, check.
Menu, check.
Photographer, check.
Band, check.
Wedding dress, CHECK!
Bridesmaids dresses, check.
Ring bearers, check.

and my favorite part: my Uncle to marry us, check.

Not going to post the remainder of the to-do list...
but I think we are doing pretty well for three weeks into our engagement!

PS -- Dear God, please help us thaw out in North Carolina. It's way too cold!

First Day of Winter!

2009-12-22T18:59:00.007-05:00

On December 21st, (the first day of Winter AND my Aunt Renee's birthday), Grant asked me to spend the rest of my life with him!

On one knee, he asked me here (my parent's backyard) at sunset:

And slipped this beauty on my finger.

We are so blessed! No date set yet... :) I will be sure to keep you in the loop!

Merry Christmas!

Feliz Thanksgiving...?

2009-11-24T20:18:00.004-05:00

I teach my students one or two Spanish phrases at the end of each school day and they always try to come up with some crazy word or phrase to stump Miss Henderson.

Well. Yesterday, one sweet child asked me if we could learn how to say "Happy Thanksgiving"...
I replied that there is not an exact Spanish phrase because the Thanksgiving holiday and tradition began in America.

Their faces turned to gloom. It was as if I just told them that they would never have recess again, as long as they lived.

Perturbed and reflecting on how we had been discussing the importance of the Thanksgiving holiday and origin, I reiterated to the class that other countries do not celebrate the Thanksgiving holiday. And...then I taught them the Spanish word for turkey. El pavo.

The bell rang as I was shaking my head, in disbelief, that my students were heart broken over the fact that the Pilgrims did not sail to Mexico. Or Spain. Or Ecuador.

Whew. I am ready for Thanksgiving break with my family and Grant!

Burp.

2009-11-12T19:48:00.002-05:00

Robby: BuuuuuRP.

Me: Robby!

Robby: Oops. Sorry Miss Henderson. But it's been trying to get out since lunch.

Perfect.

2009-11-09T19:00:00.005-05:00

The reunion weekend with Grant was perfect.

His family and I got him off the plane,

fed him Bojangles (per request), cleaned up and went down the road a bit to CH so he could catch up with brothers at UNC-CH's homecoming game versus Duke.

Great game on Saturday evening followed up by a perfect autumn Sunday afternoon together and with family.

He is coming to visit my students this week as well -- he is bringing them Ethiopian lollipops :) Grant returned with many sweet gifts for us all. I got a Carolina blue handwoven scarf, Carolina blue Longchamp, and Carolina blue and silver handcrafted earrings. Do you see a theme there?

Pennsylvania.

2009-11-07T07:34:00.005-05:00

The last few weeks have been fun-filled in our third grade classroom! Report cards went home with the little ones, Book Character Day, parent/teacher conferences, Honors Assembly, Board Game Reward Day, and Picture Day!

In the usual organized chaos of packing up to go home on Friday afternoon,
Little Luke, out of the blue asks me:
Miss Henderson, why do they call it Pennsylvania? Do they sell a lot of pencils there?

Good question.

I love this child. I will never forget him. See picture below. You will find Luke in his book character costume, dressed as Will from the children's book, "Will, God's Mighty Warrior". He is definitely "in character" striking a warrior pose in the back row with his homemade sword and shield! Such a sweet, sweet child.

I was Junie B. Jones... :)

And SUPER important side note: Grant returns from Africa today! His plane arrives in DC in just an hour! YAHOOOO!
Welcome home to my wonderful boyfriend!

Costume.

2009-10-18T09:09:00.001-04:00

Lacking in creativity right now. I need Halloween costume ideas.
Nothing scandalous, something easy to put together, and relatively cheap.

Come on friends, help me out :)

Blast from the Past.

2009-10-06T20:12:00.004-04:00

Rewind to this same upcoming weekend in 2008. I found this email in my inbox -- some of you have read this account. It would only happen to me... haha. Warning: It's a long account but worth every word. Enjoy...

Picture Averi in a black ruffled tie tank with a red pencil skirt and black flats from by BFF Old Navy.. Classy and fabulous. Full of sass.
We're at Carter Finley tailgating nicely when I run into a friend of mine from freshmen year -- he had graduated my senior year and hadn't seen him since the State/BC game my sophomore year -- needless to say with the Blue Moon in my system and my excited state, I was giddy.

Still keeping it together, I'm a great fan during the first and second quarter. The fan beside me, not so much. He decides to send the contents of his tummy all over the ground right next to my beautiful handbag and sassy feet. ew. Decided it was in my best interest to leave the premises and or that might just be me. So I called up the parental unit and joined them in their exclusive seats for the rest of the game. Watched State lose. Again. We leave the stadium after the game with the 50,000 other people, making our trek practically to Meredith College because we had to park so far away. When we return to the car, my parents share with me their opinion of my need to NOT drive all the way to CC that night. So they drop me off a mi casa where my car is already packed for the weekend...

12 am -- Got a call from a friend, Nelson, who wants a play-by-play of the game? or maybe just wants to make small-talk? not sure. REGARDLESS, I talk to him while I'm UNpacking my car (finding my necessities for the evening). Bags, phone conversation and all, I make it upstairs and into bed. With the alarm set (for 5:30 am), teeth brushed, and hair managed, I'm asleep by 1am.

5:30 am comes FAST -- I shower, get cute, and packed again for the road for my car appointment in MHC. Enjoyed some cereal and GMA and head out to the garage to load up my car. Go to put my bags in the car. Wait. No keys. Donde esta mis llaves? Tu sabes? No se. ergh. I search my bags. I scour my super-tidy (in all honesty, my room was spotless) room and no keys to be found. I searched the driveway. No keys. My first instinct is to call Daddy -- but I withhold that urge and call the little sister, Jenna Beth. Jenna answers and says that she has a spare key for me so no worries. She'll bring my key to me. Wait. She doesn't have her car. It was left at UVillage (5 miles away) with the keys with her roommate who didn't come home last night? SKETCH. So...I knock on my rooommate's door because her car is home. I could use her car to go get my spare key... Is she home? (Sometimes she stays with the boy) I call her cell, no answer. I knock on her door, no answer. Do I open the door? Turn on the light? No, that's creepy. At this point, I'm already late for my car appointment in MHC at 9:00 am. So, I take a deep breath and brainstorm the "awake" people of Raleigh that could deliver my spare to me. No one reallly pops in my head. I call Raleigh Cab. They will come to get me. Oops. Averi has no cash. Nor does Jenna. Perfect.

7:00 am -- Roommate wakes up and hands over her keys! yahoo! I head downstairs to try out her vehicle. Doesn't start at first. Seriously? She comes outside in her cute pjs and works her magic...? I guess the car didn't like me. I drive to campus, meet little Jenna to get my spare key. Get home and realize I'm locked out. Gross. Ring the doorbell and Gracious Roommate lets me in :)
I use my key to pop open the car to access the KEYS and EW, they aren't inside. Well, I'm so late at this point, I might as well search for the dern keys. I replay every moment of my home arrival from the night before and remember a detail I had not thought of. I was hungry last night. I wanted a snack. Oh yes, Oreos, Halloween ones with orange creme...yummy...so I head to the pantry, the place of goodies. And there they are, nestled neatly on the shelf along with the Oreos. My keys.

7:30 am -- Seatbelt up, say a prayer, and drive to Newport.

I digress. I'm safe and sound, nestled at Coffee Affair in MHC, "doing work".

Talking.

2009-10-05T15:16:00.003-04:00

Third graders LOVE to talk.
Most of my students undertand when it's appropriate to talk with their neighbor.
One of my little darlings does not. He would talk to a brick wall. Seriously.

Me: Luke, will you PLEASE read your book instead of talking?
Luke: Good point, Miss Henderson, good point.

I don't know what kind of "point" I made but he was quiet for the rest of the afternoon. Praise the Lord.

Laughter.

2009-09-28T20:31:00.002-04:00

Third grade has been a lot of fun. I love how enthusiastic each child is about learning and they continue to crack me up. There are moments that I think I'm going to freak out from stress and then I end up just laughing.

Check this out:

Me: Okay, Kiddo, if every student decided to talk as much as you do and continued to talk even when I ask you to be quiet, what do you think would happen to this classroom?!

Kiddo: Um...welll Miss Henderson, it would be a disaster.

Me: Okay. Good. I'm glad we are on the same page.

Homework.

2009-09-22T20:21:00.005-04:00

So I would like to think that I am a fair teacher who expects the most of her students. Today, I was flabbergasted (what a funny word...) by one of my students.
Enter the 8 year old boy. Check out his responses as to why he didn't do his homework:

1) His living room is too small.
2) He could not find a pencil.
3) Soccer practice always comes before homework.

??????
I didn't even try to process those excuses.
My response: Really? Are you being serious?

I followed up with: Do you think David Beckham did his homework? What about Mia Hamm?
FAIL Miss Henderson because this child had no idea who those athletes are. That comparison did not work. I sent him out to recess. I needed to take a deep breath.

Happy Thoughts

2009-09-09T22:39:00.004-04:00

Grant and Company made it to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia! YAY!!! I patiently await a sweet email or two every afternoon (the 8 hour time difference is tricky so we haven't gotten to talk on the phone yet). He is a talented writer and I enjoy the updates so much.

My students continue to crack me up. I was super sore at school today from last night's ballet class (took dance all throughout high school but not during college so it's been over four years and I am back at it!) and when I got up from my chair after Read Aloud (Ramona Quimby, Age 8), I winced (and may have gasped from the pain). My student who will remain nameless but let's call him Class Clown...responds with:

"Miss H, are you getting old ALREADY?! My mom makes that face a lot and she says it's because she is older than the hills...!"

I think my students want to believe I am still a teenager (read: their bestest friend). One of my little Taylor Swift or Hannah Montana (take your pick) "Wanna-Be"s invited me to her sleepover last weekend.

I hated to decline...but I didn't think they could hang with me for an all night girl bash. Sad truth: I had to explain that I am their teacher and would love to hear about their weekend once we return to school on Monday. BORING. And I hated to burst their bubble.

But something sweet to end on this evening...

Staying Busy

2009-09-07T12:00:00.003-04:00

The Boy has left for Addis Ababa, Ethiopia with his best friend and two buddies from college. They are going with the Cherokee Gives Back program. I am waiting patiently to hear whether he has made it safely.

Meanwhile, I am enjoying teaching in the third grade and staying busy until he returns on November 7th. Hopefully, I will have time to keep you all posted on the silly things that 8 year olds say. :)

Romans 8:28.

third grade.

2009-07-20T14:58:00.004-04:00

Well blog friends, I am officially hired as a third grade teacher! I will be residing in my parent's new home in just a few short weeks and then begin learning the ropes of third grade in August. How exciting! I was honestly hoping for kindergarten or first grade job offer but a job is a job! And I am thrilled. I hope to post pictures of my new residence and classroom as soon as everything is presentable for blog world.

On the fashion front, I found three Lilly tops today at a consignment shop in MHC that I absolutely adore. Super excited. Headed to Raleigh tonight to move out some more things from Grant's parent's home and pick up my sister from the airport. She is returning from Belize!

Here is a picture of me from our recent "family vacation"...I put that phrase in quotes because our vacations to the mountains of North Carolina are typically the furthest away from what most folks would coin a vacation. We hike, dress up in kilts, wake up way too early to go to the Scottish games, and eat hurried meals.
But yes, we all went to the Grandfather Mountain Swinging Bridge and we all crossed it :)

Summertime...

2009-07-01T22:49:00.003-04:00

and the livin' is easy. And fun. Check out this kiddo enjoying his summer afternoon in the sprinkler.

sweet image found at The Bottom of the Ironing Basket.

What have you all been up to this summer? Can you believe July is already here?!

Moving.

2009-05-29T11:15:00.004-04:00

Welp kiddos, I'm leaving Raleigh/Cary officially on Sunday.
I will be moving back to Carteret County to live with my parents
in their new home that will be finished circa July. Let's pray
that I'm offered a legitimate teaching job near home.
I'm excited about moving back to the beach but will certainly
miss Raleigh, Grant's family in Cary, and the family that I've
babysat for over the past two years in Apex.

Grant is recovering nicely from his surgery. Thank you for
the thoughts and prayers!
My favorite quote of his over
the last few weeks: "Sweetheart, when I breathe through my
mouth, air goes into my nose!!!"
My response: "Yes darlin, that is normal..." -- Yay for this little nose!

Picture from Memorial Day Weekend at Peaks of Otter, VA (Yes, Grant recovered soon enough to travel to Smith Mountain Lake for the holiday! yay!)

Ready for the beach and a fun summer with the Boy. He will be a camp counselor near my home. Perfect :)

sinuses...

2009-05-15T08:45:00.006-04:00

I've been blessed with lovely sinuses and never had trouble with them before -- even experienced my first allergy issues this spring. However, the Boy has had trouble with his sinuses since birth. Poor thing.

He had surgery this past Tuesday at WakeMed and the doctor did an amazing job. If anyone out in the blog world knows about sinus reconstruction surgery, they know how painful the recovery process is. To him and anyone who has experienced this before, bless your heart -- although I can't begin to fathom the pain.

While he is recovering, I've been able to stay in the guest room at his parent's home -- it has been great to help take care of him but difficult to see him in so much constant pain and enduring the fever associated with healing. Word from the doctor is that the pain will peak this weekend.

Here's what I need: I would love for you all to lift us up in prayer this week and as he recovers during May. Pray that Grant (I figured you should know his God given name!) will be comforted by the Lord's strength and be covered in love and healing. Pray that his family and I will be able to ideally care for him and provide him the most love, patience, and comfort that we can.

I am thankful for this time to spend with Grant's family and I can see how my love for him has grown during this time of recovery and pain. I am blessed!

In transition.

2009-05-13T11:16:00.004-04:00

I have graduated from college.
I am patiently awaiting a job offer in MHC while staying in Cary.
I miss my kindergarten students.
I hope to slowly re-enter the blogging world.
I love the Boy.

For a visual of my life in the last few weeks, please visit the Boy's photography blog. He has been better about documenting our lives...

I had to...

2009-04-21T21:12:00.004-04:00

Formal weekend with Chi Psi in Williamsburg, VA.
one word: legitimate.

This is simply a sneak preview until I have time to breathe (read: compose a more appropriate post and become a better blogger...)

PS -- my student, fondly known as Rat Tail, got a buzz cut. Big changes for this little guy.

PSS -- I have 3 little days left with these kiddos. super sad!

Scout.

2009-04-15T14:55:00.005-04:00

I had the privilege to meet the Boy's family dog, Scout, back in November before our memorable road trip. Our time together included walks on the golf course, cozy weekends by the fire, and a field trip to the flea market. Well...this chocolate lab, old and wise has been in a lot of pain and was sadly put to sleep yesterday.
It's been a sad little week. We loved him!
Aren't they handsome?

in love.

2009-04-12T20:56:00.005-04:00

I fell in love with Smith Mountain Lake, VA, on Friday. Stayed for the Easter weekend with the Boy and his family. {Image by CGL II}

Trying to prepare for a week of parent conferences, teaching the kiddos, portfolio, resume, and gearing up for formal weekend in Williamsburg.

Been an awful blog friend...will check up on everyone soon. Promise.

Good Times

2009-03-15T21:23:00.005-04:00

I've been busy with:

while the Boy has been sailing here:

{Image by CGL II}

So, following his safe return, we had a wonderful, relaxing weekend. And we found a new favorite dinner dish...it turned out to be prettttty yummy! :)

Island Spice Salmon

4 salmon fillets, 1/2 pound each
2 cups pineapple juice
1/2 cup dark brown sugar
1 tablespoon chili powder
1-1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
2 teaspoons ground coriander
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

Place the salmon in a shallow dish. Pour pineapple juice over the fish. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, but no more than 3 hours.

Preheat the oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with foil.

In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, chili powder, cumin, coriander, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper.

Remove salmon from the marinade and discard the juice. Put salmon on the baking sheet. Season the fish with salt and pepper. Evenly distribute sugar spice mixture all over the top of the fish.

Bake for 10 to 20 minutes, depending on thickness, until the fish is cooked to the desired doneness. -Recipe by Katie Lee Joel

Good times :)

eek.

2009-03-02T09:54:00.003-05:00

This greeting card says it all.

of Luxe Paperie

Excuse my obscene absence. Hopefully you all still love me!

wonderful weekend.

2009-02-15T20:53:00.006-05:00

I'm still blown away at how perfect this past weekend was. After an extremely stressful week, I enjoyed the following:

Valentine Card Swap with the kiddos on Friday afternoon, complete with the following quote from Wanna Be Jay-Z: "Ms. Henderson, you smell sooo goooood. Not everyone can smell as good as you. Wow!" I felt honored. Truly, ha ha.

Lovely dinner at Crook's Corner and Valentine's Day fraternity cocktail with the Boy. Splendid time. I'm so blessed!

Brunch at my favorite place in Raleigh. Strawberry waffle! yum!

Piddled with the Boy and his chocolate lab, Scout. Scout was in heaven as we ventured to the flea market at the NC State Fairgrounds. I saw so many wonderful antiques and treasures. And the weather was beautiful!

Dinner with the Boy's parents and then a late night movie...followed up with the hilarious home movies of him and his little brother. So precious. I almost died of laughter. He was a wild child. End. of. story.

Lovely church service at Hope Community Church. Today's sermon was The Case of the Devoted Church. Acts 2:42-47.

2009 is going to be a great year. I can just tell!

Love.

2009-02-12T19:59:00.004-05:00

Yahoo! We're having a Valentine's Day Card Swap tomorrow for the little munchkins. In preparation for our fun afternoon, today our students decorated big folders for their itty bitty Valentine's cards, candy, stickers, and HSM tattoos (yes, I'm making that prediction).

While gluing his pink, purple, and white hearts, onto his bright red folder, Rat Tail proclaims: "Ms. Henderson, I'm just a-workin' for love." Oh boy.

AND

Amidst the gluing, cutting, and coloring, 5 year old who insists he is the next Jay-Z was being absolutely absurd and I went over and quietly asked him what was going on today and why he was having such a hard time making good choices. He replied: "Oh I just don't know...I think I need to go back on that behavior contract, Ms. Henderson...I need more support you know. I need to be able to tell my mommy and daddy when I have good days...you know, when I get all smileys."

No surprise, but the same two little boys were sweetly featured here.

PS -- Valentine's Cocktail tomorrow evening with the Boy. Pretty dresses and bow ties. yessssss. love love love.

Yes please.

2009-02-08T19:19:00.005-05:00

There is just something so sweet and classic about this ring. Thoughts?

Forget Me Knot

Gold or Sterling Silver? I say go for the gold.

Valentine's Cocktail on Friday. Get excited.

ridiculous.

2009-01-27T21:09:00.004-05:00

Life is ridiculously good right now. Random thoughts/purchases...get ready.

Longchamp Le Pliage. Yep. I finally did it. And I'm thrilled. I couldn't turn down the Green Pistachio.

Going home to the beach this weekend and bringing the Boy (so thrilled to see my family!). Sadly, we won't be dressed in such attire from last weekend. See below :)

Attended a cocktail at his fraternity house. Those ridiculous boys had putt putt holes set up all throughout the Lodge and of course we had to dress accordingly. I loved his green blazer and my argyle socks. Later in the evening I sported his Masters visor. I may have looked like I could golf. Not truth. But it was all so much fun!

Fell in love with a pea coat while being silly with kWb on Saturday. Cream wool blend with sweet buttons and it's just precious. Sadly, cannot find a picture on the internet in the cream color. Trust me, it's gorgeous. AND because I loved it so much, I called a Banana Republic in VA and the toasty coat arrived on my doorstep today.

Bible study tomorrow night and we are starting to study the book of James. yay! Love that precious book. Favorite verse: James 1:2-4.

My students are finally getting used to 2009. None of that "Today is...Tuesday, January 27th, Two thousand Eiigh Ninnnnnne"....ha ha. But seriously, I'm not as tired as I was in the beginning of the semester and the class is going smoothly. Just finished up second quarter and report cards go home on Tuesday, next week. My supervising teacher and I are working well together and we are getting those five and six year olds to write their first AND last name. Big step.

And finally, I stayed around after school today with some other kindergarten teachers and experienced my first P90X workout. We don't mess around. Bring it.

The truth comes out...

2009-01-22T20:16:00.007-05:00

Such an eventful week: new jeans from my lovely sunrise sale experience (a blog post in itself...be patient with me), a new president, two snow days, field trip tomorrow and rush cocktail tomorrow evening. whew! The clever and beautiful cBr sent me a teeny award a few days ago and I'm just getting around to it...so here it goes!

Soooo I've chosen a few blogs that I think are simply sweet as pie :)

With Love from New Orleans
Mrs. Bliss
Monogrammed Teacher

You get to play!

-Choose a few blogs that you find brilliant in content or design.

-Show the winners names and links on your blog, and leave a comment informing them that they were prized with "Honest Scrap." Well, there's no prize, but you can keep the nifty icon :)

-List at least 10 honest things about yourself.

1) I'm obsessed with Special K cereal. Fruit and yogurt. Vanilla almond. I could eat it for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Sometimes I have it for dessert. Makes me feel like I'm eating healthy...?

2) When my alarm goes off, you can usually find me leaping out of bed. I'm not one to press the snooze.

3) I always make my bed before leaving mi casa.

{Wish my bed was adorned in such a classic way. I've got one monogrammed pillow. Note to self: I need to work on that.}

4) I have a strange obsession with pretty paper. Stationery and I are pretty much bff.

5) I love everything single thing about a wedding. Anyone who knows me well...already knows this. What's not to love?
“Love knows no limit to its endurance, no end to its trust, no fading of its hope; it can outlast anything. Love still stands when all else has fallen.” -1 Corinthians 13:7

6) I'm a sucker for a bow ties...'nough said.

7) the Boy says that I'm "ridiculous", "absurd", and "legit". And I like that. It suits me.

8) I was a ballet dancer for a grand total of eleven years. Saut de chat anyone?

9) Throughout high school and the first three semesters of college, I was dead set on being a pediatrician. Then Organic Chemistry and I met and sealed my fate to become a teacher. I could not be happier in Elementary Education.

10) Even though Organic Chemistry kicked my tail and I decided that majoring in Biology was not my cup of tea, I truly believe that it was the Lord working in my life as I found my calling to be a teacher. I was had been so focused on the wordly needs in life instead of living a life that brings glory to God. So...play dough, dry erase markers, band aids, journal writing, IEPs, profile cards...ta da! And I'm immersed in Elementary Education. Even though there are stressful days, I honestly love being a light in the classroom and the children make my day! I want my students (and the world!) to know that my heart is sold out for Christ by the way I walk, talk, and breathe for my Lord. And well...since I'm being honest...it's a hard thing to do! But who doesn't like a challenge?!

Well kiddos, there you have it. Southern Sunshine at her finest. hah.

Sunrise

2009-01-17T06:58:00.002-05:00

Roommate and I are off to Chapel Hill on this FREEZING cold Saturday for a sunrise sale at Uniquities. I love this store. Big sale on phenomenal jeans. It's a must.
Wish me luck!

The Side Pony

2009-01-16T16:58:00.005-05:00

I love that my kindergarten students are easily able to communicate their opinions with me about my hair do.

Example:

Studentwhothinkssheistheteacher: Um...(long pause)....Ms.__________, your hair is wacked up.

Me: No, missy, I'm rockin out the side ponytail. It's stylish.

Studentwhothinkssheistheteacher: Well...I think it looks crooked.

Thought I was going to die of laughter.
See below for a visual. I think it's cute and I'm sticking to it.

I mean, at the end of the day with a bunch of five year olds, if I can't find anything to laugh about, I should quit. I don't see that happening any time soon. :)

Waist Watchers

2009-01-12T18:52:00.007-05:00

Another reason why I love kindergarten:

"Look Ms. ____________! My mommy gave me a Waist Watchers snack!

oh my :)

PS - The Boy is amazing.

PSS - Please excuse the short posts and lack of comments. Life is crazy.

Since I'm swamped...

2009-01-08T07:09:00.003-05:00

One week ago today I was perusing J.Crew and Vineyard Vines websites, stationery goodness, and photography blogs. Basically, I was relishing in all picture perfect things.

Now, I'm crazy tired and swamped with snotty noses, journal writing, teaching them how to correctly write the number 18 (the figure 8 gets them every time...), and attempting to prevent temper tantrums. But I do love my job.

So readers, I'll most likely be leaving you with quotes from my hectic day...instead of beautiful, pleasing images to the eye or daily goodness from Southern Proper. sad day.

So here we go...

5 year old student with rat tail: Ms., you know about Super Mario Brothers?!
Me: Yes, I sure do, good 'ol Mario and Luigi...
Rat tail: oh...you must have played that game when you were a girrrrrrrrrrrrl...
(I just walked away thinking...what am I now?...)

And one more to complete y'all's day...

5 year old who insists he is the next Jay-Z: I am God.
5 year old who tries to be the teacher (but I love her): No, Jay-Z, you are not....there's only one God (pointing up to the sky)
Jay-Z: OH yeah? because my last name is King!

Really?...I can't make this stuff up...

Kindergarten Love

2009-01-05T18:20:00.006-05:00

Some of you may already now but FYI I'm currently student teaching in Kindergarten at a legit public school in Raleigh. Today was our first day back after the holidays.

Five year olds today were not ready for such a HUGE day of Kindergarten. Apparently.
They whined about missing their Wii, Spiderman paraphernalia, PlayStation 3, and new Princess dolls. Lots of waiting in line for the potty, not knowing how to walk in the hallway, or how keep their voices below a dull roar. However, the girls were donning their manicured nails (loved it) and the boys had new haircuts (except one poor kid whose mother apparently thinks it's "cool" to have a rat tail...)

It was a good day.
1 kid puked on the playground.
1 kid told me he loved me.
1 kid spit on another girl.
1 kid kept asking me what I got for Christmas.

As for the kiddo who professed his love for me (which he does often), it breaks my heart because I know that he comes from a broken home where he is always competing for attention and to be loved. Today he said, "Do you know that I love you?" I said, "Yes, _________, you tell me almost every day!" He responds, "Don't you LOVE that I love you?"...... I just laughed. And nodded my head.

On another note, my good friend, bragged about here, has finally started a super legit blog! yay! Everyone go visit Polka Dots and Protein Bars :)

Muchas Gracias

2008-12-29T22:22:00.002-05:00

Hello blog friends...

I would like to let you ALL know that I have an amazingly wonderful friend who sent me these in pink and green for Christmas. She saw this post back in the day...and must have made a mental note :) We had a teeny snafu with the first order...hah, so I was excited to get the perfect ones in the mail yesterday!

THANK YOU cBr for being an amazing friend, former roommate, and sister in Christ.

I'm happy as a clam.

PS -- I'm rallying for her to start her own blog. It needs to happen ASAP. K, thanks.

Lazy...

2008-12-28T19:37:00.003-05:00

I'm typically not a lazy person. However...found these Vineyard Vines Sand Dollars and Starfish Lazy Pants at a Holiday Sale...and well...I've been able to relax, NO problem.

I'm in love with these suckers.

PS -- I need to get back in full gear for New Year's...so...this whole removal of all four wisdom teeth deal needs to get with the program. I'm still in pain. ridiculous.

Like the Holidays...

2008-12-27T10:26:00.004-05:00

Like the holidays, all things Lilly make me so happy.

Enjoy the video and history lesson :)

Festivities

2008-12-25T17:04:00.005-05:00

After an early morning (due to the 13 year old brother pictured above) of opening beautiful gifts, eating lots of yummy breakfast food, and a big afternoon nap, the family and I are planning to drive around town to look at Christmas lights together. It's a tradition :)

My favorite gift this Christmas morning:

Southern Proper Belle Bands in Light Blue Cotton and Navy Magnolia :)

Yay for family, friends, blessings, and Christ's birth! Merry Christmas!

Holding Hands

2008-12-24T00:28:00.008-05:00

With the celebration of Christ's birth, my loving family in town, and a new beau by my side, I'm quite joyful this holiday season.

A visual image of what I've been up to for the past few days...
{Image found here}

PS -- One of my favorite things to do: holding hands with loved ones.

Hip Hip Hooray!

2008-12-21T08:50:00.006-05:00

Wrapped a few gifts last night for a special someone...

The Boy is coming today! AND staying for a day or two :)

I can't stop smiling. That's all.

I'm not even kidding...

2008-12-18T19:59:00.004-05:00

Hello friends! I'm doing well...but I have to say, this guinea pig and I have quite the resemblance while I am recovering. (minus that fur, of course...)

Since the removal of my four wisdom teeth, my lower jaws are SUPER swollen...and I look like I'm storing up food. It's pretty much the most ridiculous thing I've ever seen.
We're basically twins.

These drugs.

2008-12-17T17:50:00.003-05:00

Homegirl here thinking that these drugs aren't doing a dern thing. Mother and Daddy tell me that when I was little and was given pain medicine, I got wide-eyed and crazy. So...that is what we have here ladies and gents. Took a Vicodin and I am rip-rearing, ready to go. nutso.

Word on the street is that the doc had trouble getting me to go to sleep with the IV so they juiced me up even more. Then, my BP got realllllly low so then gave me more medicine to bring me back...and guess what happens? I wake up during surgery. cOoL. not.

As we are leaving the office, I have complete feeling in my mouth. cOoL. not.

I did get to talk to the Boy. He tells me that he would rather be here taking care of me than skinning a bear. I feel honored. ha ha ha.

Ew.

2008-12-16T22:10:00.004-05:00

So the dentist broke the news to me about six months ago. Removal of all four wisdom teeth is necessary. No bueno.

Tomorrow is the big day. Out they come! Wish me luck...
I hear that they give good drugs...

Sunday Lunch

2008-12-12T08:26:00.008-05:00

I had the privilege of joining the Boy for Sunday lunch last week after church. He decided to treat me to my first visit at The Weathervane. I had no idea I was in for such a lovely, Southern experience. Located off 15-501 in University Mall in Chapel Hill, NC, this restaurant once started as a teeny treasure located within A Southern Season. Since 1975, The Weathervane has blossomed and is no longer a cafe but an acclaimed restaurant dedicated to serving the beaus and belles of the South.

When browsing their website, I can across this letter by the founder of the restaurant and wanted to share:

"We all smile when folks notice that A Southern Season's weathervane has all it's arrows pointing south. It's symbolic of traditions where service and hospitality hold honor and respect, and we hope that those traditions are shared each time you choose to visit the store and the restaurant." -Michael Barefoot

Boy and I had the wonderful opportunity to browse A Southern Season while waiting for our table. At the moment I entered the store, I think my jaw dropped. I was in heaven and thinking to myself that I have been living in a hole if I've never stepped foot in such an amazing place. Word on the street is that the Boy loved watching my eyes light up as I discovered such treasures:

All pottery by VIETRI.

Hmmmm, Lemon Drops :)

The December Wine Case

{All images from A Southern Season}

Not to mention that the assortment of paper goodness was beyond belief...Crane & Co., kate spade, and PAPYRUS... so yummy.

Beloved Craig Claiborne of the NY Times labeled A Southern Season "wall to wall and floor to ceiling, a visual and gustatory delight" and I could not agree more. Politely devouring my fried green tomatoes, cheddar scrambled eggs, and fresh fruit, this little lady was in Southern heaven. I think a tradition of having Sunday Lunch there wouldn't be too shabby.

I'm just sayin'.
And thank you to CGL for such an amazing lunch. Let's go again...my treat!

Fabuloso.

2008-12-08T13:48:00.006-05:00

Attn: I am VERY picky when it comes to picking out a planner. I have a busy life...and I have to write down many lovely things for each day so most importantly it has to have enough writing space. It has to be classic, with clean lines, and with a solid color palette. duh.

So...after a month of searching for the 2009 planner, I found one. Finally.
Barnes & Noble. And it's navy and green. With a beautiful blue ribbon. cream pages and navy print.

It makes me smile. freakin fabuloso. I'm thinking about filling it all in with dates instead of doing my final projects. hm...

Huge Fan

2008-12-03T13:53:00.004-05:00

You all should know that I'm a huge fan of John Piper.
One of the best books I've read is Don't Waste Your Life by Piper -- I read it while traveling in Ecuador and shared it with my friends so they could read encouraging snippets. I've also had the opportunity to hear him speak at a conference in Atlanta.

I came across this poem that John Piper wrote for his son's wedding ceremony. It is beautiful in every way. Last stanza = amazing.

The Wedding Poem

The God whom we have loved, and in
Whom we have lived, and who has been
Our Rock these twenty-two good years

With you, now bids us, with sweet tears,
To let you go: “A man shall leave
His father and his mother, cleave
Henceforth unto his wife, and be
One unashamed flesh and free.”
This is the word of God today,
And we are happy to obey.
For God has given you a bride
Who answers every prayer we’ve cried
For over twenty years, our claim
For you, before we knew her name.

And now you ask that I should write
A poem - a risky thing, in light
Of what you know: that I am more
The preacher than the poet or
The artist. I am honored by
Your bravery, and I comply.
I do not grudge these sweet confines
Of rhyming pairs and metered lines.
They are old friends. They like it when
I bid them help me once again
To gather feelings into form
And keep them durable and warm.

And so we met in recent days,
And made the flood of love and praise
And counsel from a father’s heart
To flow within the banks of art.
Here is a portion of the stream,
My son: a sermon poem. It’s theme:
A double rule of love that shocks;
A doctrine in a paradox:

If you now aim your wife to bless,
Then love her more and love her less.

If in the coming years, by some
Strange providence of God, you come
To have the riches of this age,
And, painless, stride across the stage
Beside your wife, be sure in health
To love her, love her more than wealth.

And if your life is woven in
A hundred friendships, and you spin
A festal fabric out of all
Your sweet affections, great and small,
Be sure, no matter how it rends,
To love her, love her more than friends.

And if there comes a point when you
Are tired, and pity whispers, “Do
Yourself a favor. Come, be free;
Embrace the comforts here with me.”
Know this! Your wife surpasses these:
So love her, love her, more than ease.

And when your marriage bed is pure,
And there is not the slightest lure
Of lust for any but your wife,
And all is ecstasy in life,
A secret all of this protects:
Go love her, love her, more than sex.

And if your taste becomes refined,
And you are moved by what the mind
Of man can make, and dazzled by
His craft, remember that the “why”
Of all this work is in the heart;
So love her, love her more than art.

And if your own should someday be
The craft that critics all agree
Is worthy of a great esteem,
And sales exceed your wildest dream,
Beware the dangers of a name.
And love her, love her more than fame.

And if, to your surprise, not mine,
God calls you by some strange design
To risk your life for some great cause,
Let neither fear nor love give pause,
And when you face the gate of death,
Then love her, love her more than breath.

Yes, love her, love her, more than life;
O, love the woman called your wife.
Go love her as your earthly best.

Beyond this venture not. But, lest
Your love become a fool’s facade,
Be sure to love her less than God.

It is not wise or kind to call
An idol by sweet names, and fall,
As in humility, before
A likeness of your God. Adore
Above your best beloved on earth
The God alone who gives her worth.
And she will know in second place
That your great love is also grace,
And that your high affections now
Are flowing freely from a vow
Beneath these promises, first made
To you by God. Nor will they fade
For being rooted by the stream
Of Heaven’s Joy, which you esteem
And cherish more than breath and life,
That you may give it to your wife.

The greatest gift you give your wife
Is loving God above her life.
And thus I bid you now to bless:
Go love her more by loving less.

By John Piper

Mi familia

2008-12-02T13:58:00.003-05:00

Oh, Turkey Break at the beach was so wonderful.

We have a tradition to pose for a picture, all 22 of us + doggie, in the front yard of my MaMa and DaDa's house in Newport, NC.

For your enjoyment, see the lovely photo below :)

And that's just my dad's side of the fam.

Talent

2008-12-01T14:48:00.007-05:00

The Boy is talented. End of story.

Check out the photos from our road trip across North Carolina. Starting at the OBX and crossing the Finish line at Stone Mountain State Park.

My favorite photo is the doe in the wildflowers. It was like she was posing for him.
Enjoy!

{All images by C. Grant Linderman II}

And I think the photography speaks for itself...no need to ramble. Pretty solid.

Ridiculous...

2008-11-30T12:15:00.009-05:00

So I was right about the Boy. This Thanksgiving will be significant in years to come...I can tell :)

I ended up packing an overnight bag and joining him on a photography road trip across NC. Yes, that's right. Nags Head, NC to Stone Mountain, NC.

Started out in Cary, NC and drove in the late Friday afternoon to Nags Head. Arrived around dinner time and began looking for a place to fill our tummies. Mulligan's, it was. We each had almond-encrusted Rockfish, mashed sweet potatoes, and cute little hushpuppies. I had just had Thanksgiving dinner and seafood extravaganza with my family but the seafood was a treat for the Boy. Oh, one thing we realized over dinner...Boy had forgotten his whole backpack of clothes. Yep, sitting right here on his bed in Cary. No bueno. So, we ventured to Kitty Hawk Sports and Surf Shop where he got this Patagonia fleece -- in the color North Sea -- and it looks great with his blue eyes. He figured he could manage the rest of the weekend without the rest of his clothes but warmth is a necessity.

The plan was to originally camp in the back of the Yukon...but our mothers were not keen on this idea. So we ventured out to the Clarion Hotel and booked a little room for the night.

And to the moooooovies we go to see Nicole Kidman in Australia. I completely recommend this movie. It was a lovely blend of romance, action, passion, and comedy. Plus, little Nullah was the cutest little boy. We were both captivated throughout the entire movie and my favorite aspect was how the film included references to the Wizard of Oz and one of my favorite songs, Somewhere Over the Rainbow :)

We, then headed off to the Harry Teet for the necessities (that was still on his bed in Cary) for the Boy -- toothbrush, toothpaste, and deodorant. This chica was completely exhausted at this point and needed rest. Going back to the Clarion, we bunkered down for bed, waiting for the sun to rise.

Boy has to capture sunrise shots of this part of North Carolina so we got up at 5:45am, with his back hurting tremendously, and in his words he was in a "terrible way". (Still aren't sure at this point what is going on with his back but I say "doctor" soon) We headed for Oregon Inlet where he took some great beach shots and of the Bodie Island lighthouse. Then, we drove back towards Nags Head and we went on Jockey's Ridge where the sand won the adventure. We were c-o-v-e-r-e-d. And everyone in unison say: BRRR. For some more photos, we drove a little ways down Hwy 12 to Kitty Hawk and he took a few shots of the Memorial to the Wright Brothers.

And then the big jaunt begins for the other side of North Carolina. Lots of music. Lots of having to stop for the bathroom (my fault...I'm not a camel by any means...). Lots of conversation and laughs. Stops for gas (it's getting cheaper!) and lunch. And then the rain begins. Rain!? what?! in the mountains?! no way. yes way. It always rains there.

Not to mention that this gal got carsick (that never happens) and I finally get out at Stone Mountain State Park and the fresh air was amazing. I immediately felt better (like magic) and the rain slacked off as well. He took pictures of this neat waterfall that was about .6 miles down the trail. Then, we headed toward the Blue Ridge Parkway but we stopped in awe of the deer that were in the Park. At one point, I counted 12 deer just munching away in a field. Boy then shoots amazing pictures...it was like we were at a petting zoo. We then saw two bucks after a doe -- never in my life have I seen something like that in real life! Racing against the rain, Boy finally finds the overlook he wants to photograph and we begin our journey home.

Please keep in mind that the Service Engine Soon light keeps flashing to no end that should be considered in this tale. We stopped in Yadkinville (apparently, there, they say it in only two syllables...I still can't get that one) and talked to the Advanced Auto man named Chan. He and the Boy diagnose the truck and everything is fine. We put some magical seafoam in the fuel tank and everyone is happy, including the Yukon. Boy gets high-quality recommendation from Chan to go to Taste of Italy for dinnnnner. I was suspicious but hungry and ready to eat :) Food was yummy, service was quick, and we had lots of leftovers.

At this point, the rain is coming down pretty hard but we still had a ball on the way home. I keep my eyelids open and we just talked and laughed a lot...Boy told me lots of stories about his fraternity, growing up, and all the crazy times he has had in college. We realized we had been in the same room, restaurants, conferences, multiple times before but never knew it. Crazy huh? Small world. Arriving back in Cary around 9pm, we said our goodbyes and he headed off to Chapel Hill. Yes, that's right...he is a Carolina boy. eek! I will be seeing this fellow again tonight...it's time to cram our quality time in before his finals and my projects begin to pile up. OH wait, they've already piled.

I love road trips. His photography may follow soon. That's all.

Did not see this coming...

2008-11-25T07:22:00.004-05:00

There's a boy :) with lots of potential.
That's right...Southern Sunshine is smitten.

Excuse the lack of posts...life has been cRaZy. Hopefully, I will get creative/have time to breathe over Turkey Break.

Leave love!

Let it Snow?

2008-11-18T15:48:00.004-05:00

Seriously, it's November 18th...in NC...and it's snowing?

Please picture me and Tina monitoring our kindergarteners as they are quietly writing in their journals...and bless his heart, "C" raises his hand and exclaims that it's snowing! I respond with "Noooo it's not...."...only to look outside and see a freaking blizzard.
I did get the children time to "ooo" and "ahh" near the windows. And then back to their seats to finish their lovely journals. I'm hardcore. ha ha. 10 minutes later and the sun is shining...but it's still BELOW 30 degrees. so cold. nuts!

I'm not fit for this weather.

I need warmth. The beach. The sand. That's all.

Watson arrives...

2008-11-16T13:07:00.010-05:00

It's my senior year in college and I came to the realization that my best friend, whom I refer to as Watson, has only visited NC State/Raleigh area a few times...(she goes to Virginia Tech)

So I convinced her come for a spontaneous trip last Thursday and Friday. We had a great time together...full of fun and introducing her to my life in Raleigh.
Here she is serenading us at the bar:

She is loads of fun, can't you tell??

Her reaction to our house was so sweet -- she giggled and swooned! And of course, I was super excited to show her my room. She fell in love, sprawling herself on my seersucker bed and monogrammed pillows :)

Friday evening we enjoyed amazing salads at Cafe Carolina...I had to bring her there considering that's where I spend...well...a lot of my time :) (studying, playing with friends, eating, reading all YOUR blogs!)

Look at the goodness:

{Image from Cafe Carolina & Bakery}

I made sure to eat ALL the strawberries :)
Just wanted to make sure you all knew about this beautiful place in the Carolinas. There are a few scattered throughout NC but my favorite, by far, is here in Raleigh at Cameron Village.

One more thing...

2008-11-15T18:49:00.008-05:00

Just a note to say that I love my roommates. I'm so blessed to have these ladies in my life every day...and I love their fashion sense. classic. full of sass. and sexy in a simple way.

We love watching John and Kate Plus 8, Say Yes to the Dress and Grey's together. And now that it's getting colder in NC, we are ready to enjoy our favorite movies with a cozy fire in our living room :) Not to mention they've helped me learn a few things in the kitchen...

Our fourth roommate is on the Meredith College soccer team (Go Angels!) so we are ready for her to season to end so we can all hang out more...

I'm going to miss them next year! eek!

EDIT: So I guess I should have re-read this post before putting it out there for you all to see...Our fourth roommate goes to Meredith...and the rest of us go to NC State. Go Pack! Sorry if that confused you all!

yummy.

2008-11-15T18:29:00.007-05:00

So my bestest visits this Thursday and Friday from VT and surprises us with Carol Lee doughnuts from Blacksburg, VA.

Attention: these are the BEST doughnuts I've ever had...a taste of heaven. seriously.
The quaint little shop is nestled near downtown Blacksburg and everyone should experience this goodness at least once in their lifetime :)
Carol Lee Doughnut Shop. go!