May Self Portrait

I must have gone on hundreds of road trips in my life. New cities, girls weekend, camping trips, bus excursions, train rides...I'm fortunate the list goes on. As for preparing for any getaway I look forward to lots of sleep, good meals (both homemade and going out), tasty beverages, new memories with friends and a time of relaxation.

This weekend was no different. We packed up the car and headed to Beech Mountain to see our friends' new house. They brought their kids and Grandma, which to some of you that probably doesn't seem like a getaway...but these are the sort of kids that make the thought of having a few not so bad. Plus, Grandma loves babysitting so it's really a win-win.

Anyway, we filled each day to the brim. Magnificent views, sunbathing, soaks in the hot tub, a campfire and s'mores, animal sightings, even my very first ski lift ride (to a mountain-top bar with 360-degree views)! The concerns of farm signage, deadlines and design drain melted away. By the time Monday morning rolled around I convinced myself we need our own Mountain House about 16 times.

All good things must end, eventually... With two hours left in the drive home my stomach started to get that twinge of anxiety. The week ahead's to-do list starts forming and quickly begins overflowing with items. I used to have this feeling quite frequently, but within the last year it's gotten less and less. Maybe it's because I started saying 'No' more often. Maybe it's because I've just realized everything gets done eventually and nothing is really that big of a deal. Or, maybe it's because we've had
the opportunity to do little escapes like this more often. Regardless the reason, I took a deep breath and drove full-speed home...the next experience awaits.

Baby Shower Gaggle

My dear friend is expecting a baby girl this Summer and what better way to celebrate than with an adorable baby shower!? I was honored to help plan with four other amazingly talented ladies to make our 'Oh Deer...Baby Lauren is Almost Here' woodland theme top notch for the mommy-to-be. Above are the invitations I designed with matching insert cards. I also made coordinating food place cards, a signs and baby games. 

Lucky for us, the host has this gorgeous (handmade by her and her boyfriend) wooden dining room table that perfectly fit our theme. Our wedding decor, once again, came in handy as we used the wooden slabs (from our centerpieces), cake plates and branch garland.

The menu consisted of lots of treats from chicken salad sandwiches to dill potato salad, Mexican rollups, a cheese plate, veggies and dips. For dessert we served red velvet cupcakes (the lady of the hours' favorite) and chocolate chess pie. For the non-pregnant guests we served white peach sangria and champagne. 

As an advocate for no games at showers, I actually liked the games we picked - mostly because they required no effort or awkward moments. The clothespin game, the yarn game and the Wright Family game were general crowdpleasers.

We were also very fortunate to have a florist on the planning committee. The flower arrangements were absolutely stunning and seriously classed up the day. But you can never go wrong with ranunculus in my book! Everyone participated in our 'books for baby' which is a great way to build a unique collection of books - and touching words from loved ones. We're so excited for Sarah, her hubby and their little bundle...now finish out these last couple months and arrive safely Lauren!