Weekend Recap: We Love America

In light of everything that has happened this past week[see previous post], this weekend was a great reminder that friends and family are what get you by. 

Friday the crew got together and rocked out a 5K in Downtown Nashville. 

 

 

Later, we had a few people over for some grilling and lots of laughter.

 

Saturday we were off to celebrate two sweet friends get married!

They even had an ice cream truck after the ceremony.

 

 

 

It was so great to spend our weekend with such great people! Man, we have some great friends!!

The Brevity of Life

This time last week, I was wishing my cousin, Anna, a Happy Birthday when my dad walks into my office with an awful look on his face. He told me my other cousin (Anna's brother, Cody) had passed away. Immediately I felt a wave of pain. Not Cody. Not at 25 years old. Not on Anna's birthday.

While all of these thoughts were rushing through my mind, I literally could not move. I have experienced my fair share of death. Probably more than you would expect. From my great-grandfather, to my baby cousin, to a friend in high school, to a friend in college, to my uncle last year, and now Cody. I know what to do when someone you love passes away, I have been there all too many times. But this time was different. There was a sting. There was this wave of confusion. I couldn't believe it.

Cody and Anna were like the siblings I never had. They welcomed their little runt cousin in with open arms. Anna did my make up and hair. Cody taught me how to shoot a gun and wrestle. The memories I have with them are some of my favorite.

As I sat in the funeral yesterday, I was surrounded by family. Family that loves each other more than anything on Earth. 700 people went to Cody's visitation. I don't even think I know 700 people. I say that jokingly in a way, but also that speaks volumes to the kind of person he was. He was easily 6'6, weighing probably 300 pounds. He was a stout boy. But he was so gentle and kind. His love for life and his family were evident in everything he did. His hugs were my favorite. His laugh was contagious. We had the same argument every year about Grandma's strawberry cake and who got the left overs. He always let me win. He is the only one that still sits at the kid table with me. He had a heart of gold. I didn't get to see him all the time, but when I did-- it was like nothing ever changed.

The officiant for the funeral read the Dash Poem. He talked about the life in between the birth and death are what matters. And Cody's dash mattered. I thought the whole way home about what my dash would like. I think it's natural to think those things.

When I got out of the funeral, and looked at my phone, I was flooded with thoughtful text messages-- some even as simple as someone saying they are thinking of the family. Even though I could type all day long about how much that meant to me, I will never be able to fully express my gratitude. And it hit me. Life isn't about the people that hurt you, or aren't there when you need them the most. It's not about the drama, the bad days, and the struggles we have. It's not about the friend that doesn't care, or the person that is mean. It isn't about the money, or the house, or the life status, or the fancy things. Life is about making people feel loved, regardless of how you feel in that moment. That is something that Cody always did. No matter what was going on in his life, he was determined to make you feel like you were his best friend, and he did it in the most genuine way. That is the kind of person I want to be. Life is so short. And sometimes, it is really messy and unfair. But at the end of the day, loving people is all that matters.

Wedding Wednesday: Bridesmaids

I am jumping back in to Wedding Wednesday in honor of a friend's wedding this weekend. This post is going to have several parts, so bear with me. I have to make up for my delay somehow, right?!

A lot of us are at the stage in life where we receive the ring pop box, and we get asked to be a bridesmaid. At the time we are probably jumping for joy, super excited for our friend. However, sometimes we feel overwhelmed/confused/broke/etc. Being a bridesmaid and a bride have really helped me understand both roles, and how they can sometimes be frustrating. I wasn't the perfect example of either by any means, but I did learn a lot during the process. So here are a few tips that I have learned along the way, some points I wish I had been better with!

How to be a rocking bridesmaid:

1. Be excited. Wedding planning is stressful. Let your girl know how pumped you are to celebrate with her every now and then. It makes her feel loved in a somewhat stressful time. Whether it is a coffee, random text, or whatever best fits your relationship. 

2. Be honest. This is tricky, and something you have to be constantly aware of. For example, if you can't afford a $250 wedding dress/shoes/hair/makeup/life, that is okay. Chat with your bride about options for paying for it. She chose you for a reason, so she will be willing to work with you. If you think her attitude sucks, talk to her [carefully]. Remind her she has a team here to help her, even if it is just to escape planning and color swatches. 

3. Be there. Don't be the bridesmaid that just shows up on the day of. Be apart of her planning, even if it just adding stamps to envelopes. Wear your neon tutu with pride at that Bachelorette Party because you may not know it now-- but it means the world to her.

4. Be her friend. I think this is the most important one, because it embodies all the ones above. Just because you feel like her minion at times, or you think she has gone total bridezilla... you're still her friend. One she loves dearly. Remember that. And breathe, because one day she will do all the same crazy things for you.

How to be a rocking bride:

1. Be excited. Don't make everything seem so stressful-- it scares your bridesmaids [lol]. Do something random to let them know how much you appreciate them dealing with your crazy self. Something as small as snail mail or a text, let them know that they are your best friends.

2. Be honest. Let them know what you are thinking about their wardrobe or whatever they may have to spend money on. Allow them to have some freedom, even if its only jewelry. Be open with them, and most importantly be receptive when they are open and honest with you. This is your day, and they know that. But, you also want them happy to still be your friend.

3. Be there. Yes, this is your day. But life doesn't stop just because you are getting married. Take time to be intentional with your girls outside of wedding related things. If your friend is crying her eyes out or stressed to the max, probably not the best time to ask about color swatches or dress lengths.

4. Be her friend. Remember between addressing the invites, picking out dresses, and trying on your dress that these girls want to celebrate you, but they also did this because they are your closest friends. So cherish that bond. And make sure they know it. And most importantly-- have fun-- it goes by so, so fast!!

Wednesday Wish List

Summer is officially here, and I am loving certain pieces.
Here are a few that I am currently ready to have in my closet at any moment!

America Kebabs

Because who doesn't love kebabs!?

Also the only meal that you can spell about 7 different ways.

I love this recipe, and it is super easy/affordable!

 

source via

Recipe:

Yield: Makes 16-20 kebabs (depending on how big you cut the brownies and how many brownie pieces you thread on the skewer)

Ingredients

• 9X13-inch pan of Brownies (chilled and cut into 1-inch cubes) 
• I prefer this brand, it is seriously the best box I've had. 
• 1 pint blueberries, washed
• 1 pint strawberries, washed and hulled
• Large marshmallows
• Hot Fudge Sauce for drizzling, if desired
• Bamboo/wooden skewers

Directions

1. Alternate threading brownies, fruit and marshmallows onto wooden skewers. Drizzle with hot fudge sauce, if desired. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Five on Friday: Running in the Heat

So, I have been thinking of posting this for awhile, and now seems like a great time.

I have been running for about a year and a half now.

It doesn't get easier, you just get better.

But, y'all... this heat/humidity combo needs to chill.

I am no expert.

I read a lot of magazines and blogs on what works for people, and what doesn't.
And then I find out for myself. 

I think every one is different.

Here are a few tips I have found helpful for running in general and especially in this heat.

Feel free to add or give a different opinion.

I love hearing about what other runners find that works for them!

summer running by sara-lumley

1. Clothing. Wear clothing that makes sense for the weather you are going to run in. If it is 75 degrees, and about 75% humidity-- you might want to shed some heavy clothing. Keep it light. Stay away from materials like cotton when running. Cotton retains moisture causing you to tire more quickly. Go for clothing options that are wicking. I prefer compression shorts to run in. I find "Norts" are uncomfortable for running and chaff your skin. Compression shorts are designed to pull moisture from your skin to keep you as cool as possible.

2. Shoes. I can not stress enough how important it is to wear the right shoes. I love Asics. However, these shoes are not for everyone. My running partner loves her Brooks. My best friend runs in Nike Frees. I can't wear Frees, they literally kill my legs and back. But, they work perfectly for her. So, the best advice I can give is to go to a local running store (Not a sports store), and ask to be fitted. They will not judge you, and you aren't expected to purchase right then, as shoes can be pricey. But, at least you will know more about your stride, how you land on your feet, and they can provide the right options.

3. Apps. While everyone wants a fancy sports watch, like Garmin, those can be pricey. And if you are just starting out, that's a mighty investment. So I recommend two apps: WeatherChannel and Nike Running. Both are free and provide you with everything you'll need to get out the door.

4. Hydrate. No really, hydrate. Your body literally works twice as hard to run when you aren't properly hydrated-- especially in the heat. Hydrate really well the day before a run, and especially after. If you plan to run for longer than 30 minutes outside, which most of my runs are, then map out your course to have water near by. I map my run to the local park which has a water fountain. On my long runs during training, sometimes I will go drop a water bottle off at mile 8-9.

5. Don't be afraid to take it slow. Heat alone is one thing, but humidity adds a whole new element to running outside. Slow down a little on your pace. But most of all, have fun running!! It doesn't have to be awful. Find a good friend, and hit the trail!

Well I'll Remember You....

Three years today.

Even typing that it just doesn't seem real.

Three years without your beautiful soul and contagious laugh.

To say we miss you is, as always, and understatement.

There are so many moments we wish to share with you.

Even though my heart hurts, along with so many others...

I cannot help but be so grateful.
I will forever be grateful to have spent your last day on this earth with you. 

God had a plan for your life.

He used you in ways I wish you were able to see. 

While your life was fleeting on earth, your soul has left its mark on many.

It's because you took in a crazy sophomore and crowned him your little brother.

It's because of our 3 semesters worth of classes together. 

It's because of that night at the EN house when I texted you.

It's because of all the moments in between. 

It's because you taught me to always see the good in people.

It's because you encouraged me to do that- I married your little brother [fraternity]. 

When I talk about you to those who don't know you, I wish they could. 

I wish they had the honor to call you friend.

Even though you were taken so quickly, you left us not only a part of you, but someone that would become forever part of our family. 

Love you, Garic.