Strength at any (st)age.

There are a lot of reasons individuals feel strong. It might be because they were able to do the impossible, completed a task or were physically able to meet a goal. It is defined as a good quality in people and things, and is an accomplishment all on its own.

When you add the variable of age, the measurement changes. As children, we think we are strong when we can arm wrestle our older siblings or friends. In our teens, it is making it through the school year without being bullied. In our twenties, its surviving college and landing our first jobs. We are strong. Invincible.

These are all easy to identify, and in some ways less complicated. But what about once we are parents ourselves, or women choosing to follow our careers, or taking on the role of caretaker for our aging parents, or deal with debt. Failure. Loss. Death.

We are always quick to show our praises, but not our defeats. Not our vulnerabilities. But I have started watching those around me, and have realized that those I admire most, and that exude the most strength are those who don't just celebrate triumphs, but share their lows.

I am learning to be strong. I have recently been through a lot, and tried to put on a brave face, but through my latest move, the illness of my father, the loss of my beloved pet and the stressors of looking for a house and job I want to be open and find my strength.

I am starting a new fitness journey to get my health back on track, so I can be physically strong. I am trying new things to be sure that my mind regains its strength. I am trying to work as a team with my husband and rebuild friendships in order to strengthen my heart. I am ready to be whole again. And come out of all of this stronger than ever.

Loss and New Beginnings.

I wrote this poem just this morning thinking about how much I love Ruthie, our beloved rescue who would have turned 12 this May. She blessed us with her love for what would have been three years in June. She died in my arms this afternoon, on the first day of spring at 1:25pm. Just like spring, she has awakened my love of writing again, and I will be forever grateful. Bean, you are already missed desperately. 

Mommy, its ok to Cry.

I was the oldest one by far in a cold and sterile place, 

All the workers loved me, it must have been my face. 

You and daddy came to meet me and rescued me that same day.

You even brought my brother, who was too lazy to play.

A little nervous at first, I dropped my head on your lap to say hi, 

that is the moment you became my mommy, and when I first saw you cry. 

It didn’t take too long to learn the rules of the house,

I, the queen of the castle, and Brother quiet as a mouse.

Snuggles, cuddles, kisses that was our everyday treat.

I was great at digging ditches to cool myself from the heat.

You would always come and go and I wondered why, 

Sometimes I would be bad, and I would make you cry.

I love to wear fancy things and play dress up, just like my mommy does.

Hats, and scarves, shirts and sweaters and even the occasional rug.

It kept you happy and close, and that was the ultimate high,

Mommy you were laughing so hard, that its ok to cry.

We moved across the country, our first family road trip

It was cold, uncomfortable and snowing no place to take a dip.

We arrived to Auntie’s farm in just the nick of time,

To surprise my sweet cousin’s and have them see me in my prime.

Trouble started with you and dad, and you said you would try, 

I knew it must be hard, because Mommy you would cry. 

Nicknames like snugs, peanut and bousel bean caused grin from ear to ear, 

Just like waiting for your return home and hearing the car pull in the rear.

I would run and play and chase cars down the fence like I used to in DC, 

All the people who would walk by thought I was cute and such a sight to see. 

I would dance and growl when I was hungry, and sing and howl and sigh

Making you roll your eyes in pleasure, I was thankful it didn’t make you cry.

We spent two whole years in Colorado, through storms with ice and snow,

I made some many new auntie’s and my family continued to grow. 

When Grandpa’s illness got worse, you made the call to say goodbye, 

Then you found out I was dying, and you began to cry.

Road trip number two had a whole different theme,

Getting me back to Georgia was your ultimate dream.

My life has been so much better since you rescued me from that place.

Snuggles, cuddles, and kisses linger all over my face. 

All dogs go to heaven, and its a wonderful place,

I know that you will see me there and I will kiss you on your face.

They say it makes you stronger, and that its ok, that’s true. 

Mommy its ok to cry, just like the big girls do. 

Day Trip to Annapolis!

Today I was finally feeling a bit better and the Squid and I went to Annapolis. I just love this city because it is super close to DC (only about a 45 minute drive - if you get lost like we did) and every restaurant you go to has seafood!! Well, those aren't the only reasons I love it, but it was yesterday. 

We started off by taking a quick drive over the Bay Bridge. It is something that the Squid hasn't ever done, and I just thought it would be beautiful and the weather and boaters didn't disappoint! Then we went to Cantler's Riverside Inn to have some crab's and soak in the sun. It was a bit chilly, but a great sunny afternoon on the porch deck. I never realized how hard it is to eat crabs, but I did get to work out my frustrations with the mallet. 

After eating our fill, we slowly made our way into Annapolis and drove around a bit before parking and exploring the city. We made our way to Middleton Tavern, a place I have been before on a work trip and had great drinks and of course sat right next to a guy from Alpharetta, Georgia. It is such a small world. We joined him in trying there famous shrimp shooters and the cocktail sauce was out of this world! 

Then I took the Squid to a cigar shop where the shop keeper decided he would give us a little magic/comedy show while he helped us pick out cigars! Small places like this are the best place to find local talent. Then we walked up the narrow streets to the State House and took some pictures of the dome and the sunset. It was just lovely. 

It is so wonderful when you find someone to share your life with because you have a built in best friend anywhere you go. We laughed and joked all day long and just got to spend some much needed one on one time together. Sometimes you forget how special that can actually be.

Annapolis, we will see you again soon! But please be warmer when we come back!!

Friends and Fond Memories

You know birthday month isn't all about me. It is a wonderful excuse to make my friends get together. For them to rally and celebrate. I reach out to friends all over the country to check in, see how they have been and when the next time is that I can see their pretty faces, and their husbands, and babies, and dogs.

I have shared so many amazing memories with my friends over the years in the month of May. It has always been a month of endings and new beginnings. With the end of school, graduations, farewells. And the beginning of summer, vacations and new memories. I crave the days when all my closest friends lived in the same city and were completely accessible all the time. When the most last minute plans turned into the best nights of our lives.

This month in history I have watched friends walk down the isle, introduced strangers that have become life long friends, strengthened family bonds with a walk on the beach and had one too many margaritas with old friends. I have driven and flown countless miles to be close to those I love and had many, many birthday songs sung. Oh, and the Squid gave me a ring.

To those friends who I haven't talked to our seen in a while, I have not forgotten about the good times we have shared throughout the years on my birthday, and think about you all the time. Countless bottles of champagne and martinis on rooftop decks, seedy bars, and swanky restaurants. The cookouts, make outs and black outs. I think about the days when we were working on our tans, and crunching away our tummies to look hot in a bikini. When we were jumping fences to get into members hill at the horse races, consoling crying friends on party buses, and yes even eating boxes and boxes of pokey sticks and pizzas after a night out drinking. I remember you driving to Charlotte to celebrate my birthday because I was alone and even brought plastic glasses so we could sit by the pool with wine and not get in trouble. And of course I remember turning 21 in a sublet apartment in DC when two friends brought over a giant bottle of wine and we braided each others hair. Seriously, the best times of my life.

Mars and Venus make pizza

Why do you always get sick when you have a deadline, or life milestone, or some significant goal? I woke up this morning with a swollen throat and creepy crawlies. My first thought was NOT NOW, I have way too much going on for this. But inevitably life throws something in your path to slow you down so you don't get too far ahead of yourself. Okay, I get it.

Anyway, I didn't let it stand in my way, but proceeded with caution and opted for a nice soothing yoga instead of my usual Insanity. I breathed deeply through my yoga and then the Squid and I went to Jack-n-Dabes (this would be Jackie and Dave's House, we are weird) and had a pizza showdown. The competition was simple, make the best pizza ever. It was girls vs. guys and it was ON.

The girls pizza channeled a fresh and light palate pleasing combination of pesto, goat cheese, roasted red peppers, mushrooms and mozzarella cheese.

The guys pizza was a take on a meat lovers pizza, but their pepperoni went bad, so they ended up with tomato sauce, Gouda, bacon, mozzarella cheese.

As we were all sitting there enjoying our pizzas and taste testing each other's creations it dawned on me. John Gray was right, men are from Mars, and women are from Venus! Men enjoy the simplicity of greasy, meaty, smoky flavors from their pizza (not to mention they couldn't kneed the dough in a circle, so it was a wonky looking rectangle) that either put them in a food coma or cause a heart attack. It was tasty, yes. But I felt so guilty for eating it. Our pizza on the other hand was lovely. It had more complex flavors, lots of textures and was so pretty with its green, red and white colors (in a perfect circle.) It tasted fresh and something you could even eat on a hot summers day.

If you haven't caught on yet, the pizzas are like us. Men are simple, creatures of habit and can be hard on the stomach, and sometimes give you a heart attack. Women are complex, thoughtful, complicated and easy to enjoy year round. It takes a strong woman to be with a man. I mean, the number one killer of women is heart disease. Ladies beware, and if you have a good man keep him happy. Your life depends on it.

May 1st - "Officially" Birthday Month, so whats up?

You have to love it when your friends know you so well. While there is really no significance to May 1st in my life, I got numerous Facebook messages and texts to wish me a "Happy Birthday Month." Yup, let the celebrations begin!! But first, the questions...

Every year during this month, I question a lot of what is going on in my life. The current questions are coming from the dissatisfaction I have with my job. Our summer concert series begins this Friday night and preparing for the "season opener" makes me remember why I enjoy event planning. Being at a venue vs. a destination management company is completely different. Right now there is a lot of sitting at my desk and planning, but there is never anything that is urgent, or any fires to put out. I sell the space, get the proper documents from the clients and move on. I say "no" a lot. I don't own anything and my opinions rarely matter. Uh-oh.

I took the position needing a serious change from my chaotic job dealing with dine-arounds, galas, tours, transportation and traveling from Miami to Boston and everywhere in between. Everything was changing around me so change was the obvious choice. I was newly engaged, had moved apartments, and was traveling and working so much. I was finally in a committed and solid loving relationship, but professionally felt frazzled.  This coming from someone who has always felt empowered, confident and successful by her work and had a revolving door of boyfriends that just weren't right. Talk about a 180!

Now, I feel stale at my job because there is no opportunities to move up. There is no continuing education. There are no sales goals. I am the only producer in the office. I have no one that I can relate to and no one to truly turn to for guidance and support. And was recently told that I needed to "step up" my performance. This was after telling the boss I had generated thousands of dollars in sales and created a funding stream for almost all of our community programming. WTF.

I love this time of year to reflect on life and ask tough questions because it makes me think about how I can continue to get better at my job, and seek out the right profession for my new, married lifestyle. It just brings to mind the saying "you can't have it all." Sounds like a cop out to me. I mean, I get a birthday month, don't I?

What is with the rain?

Have you ever felt like you just need a do over? That is how today felt for me. I woke up to rain and knew that was going to alter my mood significantly. But I did a rain mantra to try to alter it. What are some positive effects of rain? It makes a soothing sound on a roof - doesn't work for me since I am on the ground floor of a three story building. It washes away pollen and makes the air smell fresh - which would be nice if I could admire it from inside the comfort of a car or home. I am a bike commuter for goodness sake! And that is where the positive list stops, because I mean, come on - rain is only fun if you are hungover and want an excuse to stay inside, or if you have time to sit on a covered porch and sip coffee or wine. I know its great for the soil and the world, but sometimes a girl needs to catch a break. 

So I hopped on my bike and headed into work, forget fixing my hair, it was pointless. Our concert series starts this Friday too, so today was the day our tent was to be set up. Of course. So I am standing out in the rain, waiting for everyone to arrive. Then, the mist rolled in. Oh great, whats better than rain? Let me tell you - its mist. Its just annoying because you think you don't need an umbrella, but if you don't have one, you end up soaked, just very slowly. The whole time everyone is yelling at me "where is your jacket, you are going to get sick!!" SHUT UP. 

The rest of the day was looking up, got a lot of work done, feeling good about life and then I unlock my bike, hop on and begin to ride. Kathunck! Kathunck! Yep, that's right - I have a flat tire. OMG. I don't know if Uber has ever been considered a HERO, but they were today. In just 5 minutes, I was whisked away into a humid taxi (cause you know they don't worry with AC when it's raining) and home in the blink of an eye. The whole time the cabby was asking me all about bikes "how much do they cost?" "what type should I get?" Dude, I have NO idea, I am not a traveling bike professional. Geeze. 

I opened my door, climbed into comfy dry clothes and opened a bottle of wine. Now I can finally enjoy the rain.

Happy beginnings

Four months. 120 days. The most wonderful man in the world. A house built for love. Connection for life. Happiest heart. Luckiest girl in the world.

Its incredible to think that it has been such a short time since we said our vows, but our love is deeper and more meaningful everyday. The joy that my baby family (the Squid and Taco of course) brings me is unshakable. I can't believe that they have only been in my life for three years. Looking back, I have discovered more about myself since I met them then I ever thought was possible. What a cool feeling to know you found the one and that they can bring out the best parts of you.

The Squid works late at the shop, so imagine my surprise to see him walk through the door tonight, home early to take me to dinner for our anniversary. Off to Granville Moore's we went for some mussels and frites! He always works so late, that it is virtually impossible to ever have a meal before 9pm. It was really fun, especially since we haven't been going out lately. Such a treat!

Birthday month is certainly off to a wonderful start!!

The Rat Race

Today I have decided to do absolutely nothing. Seriously, when I woke up I thought to myself, you are allowed to have one day that doesn't require you to move, talk to anyone or do anything. I would like to say that it could pass for a day of meditation and wellness, but I have been watching LOST and Madmen for like 8 hours, so I think it I am having more of a TV vegfest. In the moment, it was heaven.

But this evening it got me to thinking, should I consider it a reboot or a waste of time? I mean, you can only do so much in a weekend, and you don't have to have consent plans every day until you die. But I always feel terribly guilty for laying around and not engaging in something for my health. On the flip side, we all live these fast paced lives that require so much time and energy, yet create a whirlwind of anxiety. Sometimes you need to get off the grid, right? 

A good friend once told me this saying, and I think of it all the time. "You run round and round trying to win the rat race. If you are lucky enough to win, at the end of the day, you are still a rat." This is somewhat disturbing to me to think of how hard I work and try to get ahead, it may not really ever change the outcome of where I end up. I like to consider myself an optimist, and looking back over the past 8 years that I have been working I can see how far I have come. I started as an intern at an Advertising agency in Charlotte, NC and now, I am the Marketing and Programming Manager of beautiful park in Washington, DC! I think it is safe to say that while I might be a rat, I am a pretty darn lucky one. Sometimes it takes looking back on how hard you have worked to recognize everything you have done has gotten you to the here and now. Success doesn't happen overnight, or in just one race.

So for now I am okay with taking a day here and there where I can just "be." I am an independent successful 29 year old (for 27 more days) and am so excited about the direction my future is headed. Now, I need to get back to first episode of season 4 of LOST. I mean, at lease I am actually not off the grid. 

Bluegrass Island

Today was a great day to officially kick off what I call "birthday month." It started a bit earlier this year because well,  I have been trying to rally all my friend for years to celebrate for 31 whole days, but once your actual birthday date has passed, it gets harder and harder to convince people to celebrate. I didn't want this last year in my 20's to come to a close without the proper amount of celebration!!

The brunch reservations I made about two weeks ago were finally upon us to Le Diplomate, this wonderful new place on 14th Street. The drinks they serve are delicious and hands-down they has the best lamb sandwich I have ever tasted in my life. It is definitely the type of place you would feel comfortable rocking a full skirted polka dotted dress with plaided hair and a beret, sitting at a beautiful bar in the corner with a vintage steel framed Peugot hanging over a few framed French jerseys above you. Make my creative wheels spin and concept an entire photo shoot! After brunch, we popped over to El Centro to enjoy their nice roof deck and partake in a few margaritas. Once finished there, it was off to Northeast DC to enjoy the Kingman Island Bluegrass Festival!!

Traveler didn't know at the time we got him "dressed" that he was in for a great day on an Island! It was his first experience going to a festival, and I will have to say that I was really nervous about how he would behave.  He met several new friends and even had an encounter with a Saint Bernard! He wasn't the most perfect pooch, but he certainly got around to different crowds and would have won the "most sociable" had there been a contest. Like mother, like son.

Sometimes I take for granted the incredible city that we live in. It is hard to believe I have lived in DC for a cumulative five years and there are still surprising places that I haven't discovered. This city is made up of some many neighborhoods and personalities that I still get butterflies when I turn the corner and stumble upon something life changing. I am thrilled that I had the day to explore new places and people and can hold my head high knowing that I could wrangle three friends into a string music kind of day. Birthday month is certainly going well so far.

A Coming of Age in the 21st Century

So for many cultures their is a coming of age ceremony. In Jewish cultures, it is being bar/bat mitzvah on your 13th birthday. In Hispanic cultures the quinceanera or "festa de quinze anos" celebration happens when young girl's turn 15. In India, Hindu male children on their 12th or 13th birthdays have a grand "thread ceremony" in which the boy wears a blessed thread symbolizing his coming of age. But here in America it seems event planners have recognized a way to Capitalize on the American right of passage - the "Sweet Sixteen." 

There have been numerous books, movies and elaborate TV shows chronicling the awkwardness of a teen at her birthday party. I mean, even at 16 some of us were still in braces (I forced my orthodontist to remove mine just days before my 16th birthday) wore horrible clothes, had acne and most likely a bad haircut. We might have had a boyfriend, but not likely. I think we all wish it some ways it was more like the birthdays for some upper East-siders, those that were beautiful, rich, drinking at parties and wearing fabulous couture, al la Gossip Girl.

I would like to paint the picture of my 16th birthday. It was supposed to be all about me - I am sure you can sense a trend here - and I intended on keeping it this way. My birthday falls on the 25th of May, and is usually at the close of the school year. but this particular year my birthday fell on a Wednesday. My mom had over the Christmas holiday several months earlier gotten engaged to a fabulous man. They were still deciding on a wedding date and all of a sudden my mom called and said, how would you like it if we got married on your birthday! In the words of 16 year old Lacy "MOM, its my birthday!! You can't!" So after some debate, they settled on May 26th, one day after to pacify my needs to have a day that was only about me. But in all truth, her wedding was the highlight of that birthday. It is what I remember most about that year, and what could very well have helped me get a little closer to that whole idea of a "coming of age." I was able to stand next to my mom as she said her vows (not many of us can say that) and watched her marry the man who just this December walked me down the isle. I can't picture a better way to spend a birthday. That weekend, I still had one hell of a party with a cake, tons of friends and wore a pink top, because that is what you wear on your "Sweet Sixteen." However, it pales in comparison to the feeling of not only being a daughter, but being treated like an adult who is significant enough to witness the union of two adults. 

As my stepdad says, "flattery will get you everywhere!" Well done Mom and Paul. I love you!

30 days until 30 feels great!

So there has always been a significant build up to the most importtant day of the year. My birthday! But this year marks a very special milestone, my 30th. So I decided to get back to blogging after my cryptic one a month posts and will attempt to do something everyday until May 25th. A 30 day challenge if you will. So today is Thursday, and since it is tbt "Throw back Thursday" I thought I would start with one of the most terrible birthdays I can remember. My roller skating party when I was 8.

I was one of the lucky ones growing up that had a pool in the back yard and every year we would have swim parties for my birthday. My mother was wonderful and always made a huge deal out of the day. Balloons, a Clown (he totally wasn't a scary clown) and aways the perfect theme and cake! We would swim all day and he parents love it because we were all in bed by the time the sun went down.

Well, all of my other friends always had roller skating parties because, well, they didn't have pools in their backyards so they really didn't have a choice. Georgia summers can be stifling without a pool to seek refuge, so indoors they went. I was jealous beyond belief and demanded that I have a roller skating party. And of course it was the most horrific experience ever.

I don't remember most of the days details, but I do remember one of my best friends couldn't come to the party, fighting with another friend at the rink, falling so many times that I think there were more bruises than normal colored skin and I am pretty sure I went home crying with the worst headache I have ever imagined. Seriously, hangovers to date haven't even been this bad. So I went to my room and put a cold rag on my head and pouted for the rest of the day. What. A. Diva.

Looking back it is a ridiculous example of my lifelong struggle with the grass is greener syndrome. Or the fence complex. I was the kid that had the coolest parties, but because everyone else had something different, I wanted it their way. My 8 year old self was much smarter in this area than my current 29 year old self because you know what? She NEVER had anything other than a pool party until we moved away from that house. And to this day I seriously hate roller skating rinks.

Registering for life

There are a lot of things that we have to register for throughout our lives that do not make us excited...registering for classes, car tags, gym memberships, fa passport (well that is a little exciting/stressful) Any whoo, my point is that the Squid and I FINALLY began registering for our wedding! Yippie! I really had to sweet talk my way into this one, considering the Squid has about a two second attention span for all things wedding. I buttered him up with brunch and bloody mary's and then we were off to Crate and Barrel! I was concerned that it was going to be more of an ordeal or hassle to get the things we needed from the customer service rep, but she said "here is the scanner, go wild!"

It still amazes me that after living with someone for over a year and a half that he can still surprise me with his interests, likes and home decor style. We live in a small apartment in DC we really haven't decorated much (other than the many wooden shelf's, boxes and other wooden gadgets that the Squid has made by hand) because who knows how long we will be there. And I rarely have an opinion on things like this - not to mention I don't know how to hang a picture.

So we were off to the races and of course he went straight for the canning gadgets, grilling utensils and knives, while I preferred little kitchen knick knacks like muttlers, choppers and cutesy little bowls. In the end we decided to not look into china, glassware and other items that will take over our small apartment...I think that is what they call "baby steps." It only lasted about two hours, but I think we started making some great decisions as a couple about the things that were essential, the things we could live without and the things that we hope someone decides to splurge on! However, it was quite interesting when we got home that we had registered for 8 butter warmers...hey! They looked like French Onion soup bowls to us!

I am so happy that I am on this journey with the Squid. It is hard for us sometimes to get on the same page, let alone have dinner at a reasonable hour because of work schedules and the fast paced life that this city requires of us, but man its great to know there is one person out there that knows exactly how much honey you require in your coffee.

Feels like home

Last night I enjoyed a girls night out. I have to admit, its been a while since I have 100% devoted all my time to the same sex...I have been a little Squid obsessed! But, who could blame me...he is so damn cute. Anyhow, I had the best conversations about life, love, religion and yes - getting married!

This was a reunion with the coconut girls - if you don't remember, these are the women that I embarked on a fabulous little trip to Turks and Caicos - the first adult trip since I had been back in DC. We drank, we snorkeled and made some serious life decisions on the sand.

So 8 months later we are all in completely different places than we were on the Island. Marti is leaving us for a new adventure on the West coast, Candice is in a exciting, committed relationship that has her biking, running and kayaking all over DC (and beyond) and Heidi is about to marry a wonderful man that continues to make her smile everyday. And me? Well between the engagement, the job change and turning 29 I think everyone is aware of the new places I am going.

For so many changes, it is incredible how four people can come back together and still have so much in common and have a true interest in each other's lives. I love these ladies, and I hope that they continue to include me in their journey's across countries, rivers and cities. I have no doubt that the coconut girls will have some amazing adventures to come!

It doesn't matter if someone has been in your life for one week, five years or twenty - if they make you feel like you are at home, they are worth having around.

Dreaming of the "could have beens"

As I sit at my desk this morning, my mind is full of thoughts about things that could have been.Over the past few years friends have come and gone, hair colors have changed and locations too! Jobs, men, diets - all flashing by me today. I wonder sometimes about life and God, and why things happen the way that they do. Why I was born with an insatiable appetite for food, love and life. Oh, and also shopping. "I have enough dresses!" I said NEVER.

Anyway, the reason for this post is to wander through my thoughts and why I feel the need to long for other things. I spoke with a good friends mother the other night who is so wonderful and shares the same appetite I do for travel. I was supposed to visit her daughter in Asia this month, but I went the practical route and decided to wait until next year. But I can't help but feel unsettled with my decision. I am a victim of searching friends on Facebook and turning pea green with envy because of the places they are going or the things they do. How ridiculous considering I have done my own fair share of traveling this year!

There has always been the saying "the grass is greener" but when (and how) do people arrive at the idea that their grass is the best? I don't want to miss out on my life because I am flying here or there and just snapping pictures of things to say I've been there (I do know people who do this, what a waste.) My mother always tells me "Lacy, you're young, you have your whole life ahead of you to travel!" Mom, I love you but I want to do it all and the sooner the better!

So I am trying to relax because the Squid and I have a wonderfully fulfilling life that keeps us running from life experience to experience (it just isn't Amsterdam to Chile.) I think the bigger problem is that for the first time ever my life is feeling settled, and I am feeling restless. I am not traveling for work or having 80 hour work weeks any longer. The routine after work HH isn't necessary anymore. BUT, I have a wonderful new job that is challenging me in new ways, I am able to be productive in my spare time (I am finally learning how to sew) and I AM GETTING MARRIED! What do I have to complain about? I have been struggling to get into a comfortable groove with life these days. How does my sister do it? She is the Queen of nesting and I can't seem to sit still.

So I welcome any ideas, thoughts, remedies, medication (just kidding, but seriously) that can curb my appetite for the "other stuff." Well, I know that my journey will begin once I have the courage to open my eyes.

For the Love of Bikes!

Friends, family, chic urban cyclists, lend me your ear! I have just found the most amazing website that has just saved my fashion sense. Thank you Elle, for your amazing gift of knowledge on this brand.

Eleanor's NYC has just changed cycling for me forever. I think a lot of you know my struggle with wardrobe and the constant woes of dismissing my beautiful dresses for shorts, tights or pants when biking through the city. The Squid is lucky that he can throw on some chamois under nice shorts and a button down and still be presentable enough to go to a "smart casual" (thanks Open Table) restaurant and look dashing. I however am stuck trying on 5-8 outfits and figuring out what items to wear, what I can bike in and what I will need to bring in order to attempt to be presentable at the dinner table. Well, I have listed a few of my issues with cycling around the city and how Eleanor's has just improved my life.

Scenario One: Bye, bye dignity. Hello, vajayjay on display.
You have all seen it. A cute girl with a dress on biking down the street. Even in movies you see a light breeze blowing through her hair, but not blowing her dress. Let me enlighten you on the reality of this - there are a small selection of dresses that can be worn on a bike, in fact just one: Flowy full skirted dress that hits from your knee to mid calf. Of course the list is longer of dresses that can't be worn. Skirts shorter than mid thigh, form fitting frocks, bias cut or anything structured with no elastic give (unless you are in it to bare all.) So even when wearing the most appropriate of the choices, it happens! Dress blows up and you are exposed! Solution? Eleanor's bicycle skirt garter This item is small, easy to throw in your bag and conveniently prevents an afternoon peep show. Just brilliant!

Scenario Two:  Summer showers bring wet tushes?
I am sure many people in the green world of today don't keep handy plastic bags anymore. Also, in the District you are charged $.05 for each bag that you use when grocery shopping, picking up take out or going to the liquor store. It can really add up. So it is rare when it rains to be able to find a plastic bag handy to throw over your bike seat. Some may say "Lacy, is that really necessary, just wipe off your seat!" But I have a B17 Standard Brooks leather saddle that cannot withstand the rain. What to do...EUREKA! Bicycle Polka Dot Rain Cap! Its like a shower cap for your saddle! I love this so much and think it is a fun statement to make on a gray day!

Scenario Three: Clutch your inner style, not unattractive active bag!
It is hard to find items that retain qualities of fashion AND function, but Eleanor's got it right! I have tried many bags before and ended up with a cross body, active bag with waist clip (think fanny pack, but on your lower back.) I have embraced the idea because I have searched everywhere for some that can transition from commuting to going out with the girls OR to a last minute business meeting. Enter the Handlebar Convertible Purse! This gives the perfect balance to fashion and function! It affixes to your handlebars (so no need to worry about wrinkling your clothes or "fanny packing it" around town) and also comes with a detachable strap so it can be a clutch OR cross body bag. AND it is water, stain and fade resistant!

Bravo Eleanor's for bringing fashion back into my daily routine. I know that the Squid is going to be proud.

Now everyone, get out there and ride!

Spinning Wheels

Today as I rode to work with my wheels literally and figuratively spinning, I was thinking about the safety of cyclists on the roads. I might not obey every rule but there are a few things that are "must do's" if you are cruisin the roads on two wheels. Below are my top 5.

1. WEAR A HELMET. I don't care if you just got your hair done or you have to run a quick errand. I am sure a lot of people are quite fond of your noggin and you should keep it safe. It worries me when I see perfectly intelligent people zooming on Mt. Vernon trail without one. Also, it doesn't count if your helmet is hanging from your handle bars or the chin strap undone. Each of these will not protect you from a rouge squirrel attack causing you to wreck your bike.

2. PASS ON THE LEFT. This is interesting because you should naturally feel comfortable doing this since that is the appropriate way to do it in a vehicle. But some people have a stroke of pure genius and pass on the right and get clobbered by the cyclist they are passing because they were slowing down to make a right hand turn. Idiots.

3. PEDESTRIANS, WATCH OUT! I am sure you all remember my run in with the high school bitches that caused last summer's bike accident and left me the scars on my leg and hand. I do agree that they have the right of way, but when I have a green light and Hill staffers are compelled to cross the street, I am gonna yell at them. I don't care what side of the isle they are - move it or you will get hit with my front tire. You will be both red and blue when I am finished with you.

4. DON'T DOUBLE UP IN CURVES. Ok, I think it is precious when I see a couple riding together on the trail. It is such a lovely activity for couples and can suit almost any skill level. I mean the Squid will even ride with me and resist the urge to ZOOM just to have my company. That's love. Anyway, when you are coming into a high traffic area with multiple turns, get single file. If you don't it won't be me yelling at you, it will be the 6 man cycling team that knocks you on your ass as they round the corner screaming "move outta the way!" Trust me, it is terrifying. They also might hunt you down and slash your tires.

5. EYES ON THE ROAD. So there is one portion of my commute to work that travels past the airport. There is nothing cooler than watching planes take off and land. But if you are going to watch, PLEASE get off the trail. It makes it more difficult for all of us to maneuver around your bike and then when you get your eyes back on the road are pissed that we are passing you.

I still consider myself a cycling novice, but I certainly am learning my way around the road. Just make sure you are not ever pulling jerk moves because what goes around comes around. Oh, and if you are newly engaged, make sure to wear fingerless gloves so you still have a good view of your gorgeous ring.

Happy pedal pushing!

So many questions after THE question.

So in the aftermath of this incredible moment I had a thought, after all the weddings I have planned, the weddings I have been to and been in, I have some opinions about what is acceptable and obviously NOT. I think these are the things that blushing brides are afraid to say, but you know me...I can't keep my opinions to myself.


Question 1: So, when are you getting married??

This is the question I get ALL the time! I mean, I have been engaged for three weeks and everyone is like “pick a date already” it took me 29 years to find the guy! Geeze!

For women who have been planning their weddings there whole live, this is easy. Most have already pick out the spot and put down the appropriate deposit amount, along with cutting out the size and shape of their groom. I am not criticizing there choices, but none of us can accurately predict that what you have chosen is going to be what you as "a couple" like.


As for me (and some other friends I might add,) I have no freakin clue! It doesn't matter how "in the wedding industry" you are, you can't make these decisions without the groom in mind and in hand. So many of us get lost on what we should do, where we should marry, and frankly who we should be marrying, but all that matters in the end is that you are spending the rest of your life with the one special person who was lucky enough to get you to say yes. I can picture former boyfriends and immediately pick out the wedding stereotype to go along with them. When I see the Squid, all I can see is him. It doesn't matter about everything else. However for those of you chomping at the bit, we are hoping to pick a time and place in the next few weeks.


Question 2: So, I am invited to the wedding, right?
Ok, I have to admit - I have actually asked this question before. But I think I asked my mom or sister NOT a casual acquaintance or random person in a bar! This is so awful. Not because you don't want to invite that particular person, its because how in the world do you even answer?!? Especially when you haven't event figured out where you are getting married. I know understand the dilemma of all my fabulous married friends who have gone through this before. We should all ban together and come up with an answer so equally absurd that it screeches that runaway train to a halt. "So, I am invited to the wedding right?" Oh, well most likely if you can acquire a pet monkey to play symbols for the processional...


Question 3: Can I see the ring?
Alright person interested in the ring viewing - you can ONLY see it if you can keep your facial muscles still or have amazing Botox. I am so sick of the faces and speechlessness of people after they grab my hand. So in my particular situation, please let me clarify my ring:
Yes, its an Emerald (and also my birthstone) and it's family ring that has been passed down for 40 years in the Squid's family and the diamonds are real. (Seriously, someone asked.) Also, if you are unaware, colored stones are all the rage for engagement rings these days. :) Thank you Martha Stewart.


My final note on this particular question - its not on your finger, so you don't have to like it.


Question 4: How involved does the Groom want to be?
What kind of question is this? I know a lot of men would like to just show up, take a swing of bourbon (or Tequila in the Squids case,) put on tailored clothing and walk down the isle. It should be that simple, but when you have a Groom that has a lot of opinions about what he wants and a Bride that just wants everyone to be happy, its important to get everyone on the same page. Also, if you just want to show up to your wedding and not really participate, is that how you will be during the marriage? I don't know about you, but that scares me.


For us, the short answer is VERY involved. The long is this, he wants this to be an experience for both of us. It is important that our wedding speaks to us and about us. Even through there is an "I" in marriage, there isn't in team. And that is what the Squid and I are, a team that can get through anything together. So, as hard as this process has been, and as much as I am compelled to make decisions on my own, if at the end of all of this he doesn't want to come to our own wedding, I have a real problem.


So these are Questions d'jour, but I am sure there will be more that pop up. I am excited about this process and can't wait to share more about everything happening in our lives. I couldn't be more lucky in love...I am so happy!

Three weeks, still glowing...

What a whirlwind I have been through! I can't believe it has been exactly three weeks since the Squid popped the question and it has taken me this long to sort out my thoughts to write this post!

Picture the best birthday ever (even though it was two days shy of my 29th)
The Backdrop: The Langham Hotel in Pasadena, California.
The Orchestrators: Diane, one photographer and an videographer
The Unknowingly Happiest People on Earth: Austin and Lacy 
The Scene: A proposal behind a rock
The Outcome: A resounding YES! Prefaced by "are you serious?"

I think to appreciate, you have to watch the video below. Please note that the video quality can't be blamed on the guys shooting, Austin ran out of things to say and couldn't wait to pop the question. Can you imagine, the Squid speechless? It was a once in a lifetime moment that I am thrilled I can share with the people I love.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ud6P5c6U8Lw&feature=youtube_gdata_player

Love isn't Polished

As I was laying awake in bed tonight, trying my hardest to dose off to a blissful sleep, I noticed myself twirling my ring...now, many of you might jump and say "Lacy! What ring are you referring to! Oh my goodness!" But in fact, it is so much more than that.

As a fifteen year old I didn't know much. Only that I loved my life as a Cheerleader, I was confused still about the fact that my boobs where so small I didn't require a real bra and that I wanted to know more about God. Yeah, the real one, you know - the one you capitalize in sentences. I was so young and SO excited about going on a trip to Colorado. A place that was undiscovered and new to me, a place that was unfamiliar and raw, and a place that I could go without parents. It was an incredible trip of a lifetime, in fact one that defines a lot of my adulthood now. It was a trip that I discovered God for myself and decided to know him.

Now, this could be a little heavy for a post of the "princess of polish" but I think it is important...It brings me back to my ring. So I was in the little gift shop with a few girlfriends and we were looking at so much of the merchandise. A lot that was novelty, some items that was perishable and then finally something that was worth buying - Jewelry!!! I came upon a few different things, and finally settled on a band of silver. The problem was that there were many to choose from. All were similar except for the inscribed words. There were four words; Peace, Faith, Hope and Love. I really thought about which would properly represent me...for a girl my age it seems silly, but I though this purchase could be very significant. I had to run down each word and its meaning for me and determine which could help guide me through life. Peace is a given. Its something we all want in our lives, something that countries are built and crumble on and words that give us comfort. Faith give us serenity, steadfastness and drive to follow what we believe in and hold on the the values and morals we were raised on. Hope brings everything together, ideals, religion, life and people. It holds us up when we are down and sets us right when we are on the floor. Lastly, Love is what keeps our hearts ticking, makes the impossible possible, the birds to sing and the men to dance in the rain. It is the force that can lift us to the heavens, but also bring us to our knees. It is full of life, loss and beautiful bittersweet memories.

I chose Love. I have worn this memento for years, lending it only to my big sister, who I adore but swiftly reclaimed it from. I have worn this ring on my right hand religiously ever since I met the squid in hopes it would remind  me every day of what was important, true and real in the world. Man oh man has that worked. My life is filled with so much love, comfort and joy that I can't even share it with anyone for fear that it would be received as false. I feel a wave of happiness and hopefulness when I think of it. Something so simple, but so profound. That is also how I feel about God. I think I may have forgot to mention that I went to Colorado on a Young Life trip, which is sponsored and run by a local Methodist Church - which I loved!

I am not sure what pushed me out of bed tonight to write this, but I know that I needed it. I also needed to remember why I chose love. Because it is one of the most important things in our lives. For me, it is the most attainable and I love LOVE. Everyone knows that, and it might be why a lot of people love me too. I will never give up on love, or the wonderful gifts it brings me or anyone who gives it to me.

Don't forget what brings you happiness. It could be extravagant or insignificant. My ring doesn't claim to be pure silver, but it is more bright and shiny than any piece of jewelry I own...and you don't have to polish love.