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A Merry Christmas and Happy New Year

December 31, 2017

Christmastime this year was so sweet. We aren’t used to spending Christmas in the same place two years in a row so it was a treat to have little New Bern traditions. This year we really decked the halls with our slightly larger tree. I was dead set on going to this Christmas Tree farm about an hour away. We hopped in the car (sporting our red and green Christmas attire), grabbed lunch in downtown Kinston, and just before arriving at the farm it started pouring rain. As the rainfall crushed all my Christmas hopes and dreams we drove right on back to New Bern. Thankfully we arrived just in time for the Christmas parade and floatopia along the river.

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We drove right on back to the trusty Christmas tree lot on the side of the road (we’ll chock it up to wanting to keep tradition?) to pick out our perfect little tree. today-3 today-2

It was perfect. home-1 We set our Christmas day for a week before Christmas and it was perfect. We started our morning with coffee and french toast and then exchanged gifts. This year we were actually able to surprise one another. I’d say it was a roaring success. I’m so thankful for the little traditions Ben and I have created over the years. We’ve spent Christmas in London, D.C, Cartagena, and now New Bern and I’m just so thankful. No matter where we live or where we travel to, it is so sweet to share the holidays with him. Also, let it be known that Ben is seriously stepping up his Christmas spirit game. I am one proud wife. home-2 This year we traveled back to Roanoke for Christmas and I sadly did not pull my camera out once. But, I did snap a few pictures on my polaroid and goodness I cherish these snapshots of time. Christmas was filled with so much family time, a lot of “unwrap the saran wrap ball dice game”, and even more food. Having both families in one place has been so sweet and I love that we get to spend so much time with each. Here are just a few little glimpses of our time at home.christmas polaroid-1Honestly, I’m obsessed with this child ^christmas polaroid-2

The best brothers. christmas polaroid-3We had a cajun Christmas and dad finally taught Ben all the steps.
christmas polaroid-4He makes Christmas all the merrier^christmas polaroid-5Mom nailed Garrett’s ornaments this year^christmas polaroid-6She’s the best!
christmas polaroid-8It’s been nine years with this guy. Thankful that high school Ben decided to say hello to high school Carrie.

To celebrate New Year’s we took a day trip to Raleigh. It was spent shopping around, reading at a favorite coffee shop and then most divine dinner at Brewery Bhavana (who new a brewery/dim sum/bookshop/plant shop fusion would be such a perfect combination?!). Raliegh-1 Raliegh-2

New Year’s is such a sweet time to talk about the past year and chat about our goals for the next year. I just adore getting to walk through life with Ben. I’ve got a good feeling about 2018 and can’t wait to see where it takes us.

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Boston

December 19, 2017

What a weekend to be in Boston! We got to experience the city’s first snow of the season, marvel at the Christmas decorations, and even visit Cambridge.

To be honest, Boston was never really on my top travel bucket list, but I never had a reason why. I now owe the entire city of Boston an apology. This city won me over. Ben thinks my view was slightly altered by all the Christmas lights and decorations (he knows how pathetic I am in the cold), but hey, either way, it was a wonderful weekend.

We drove to Raleigh early Saturday morning and hopped on a flight. I thought we were going to get delayed in D.C. due to the snow but thank goodness everything was on time. We landed in a winter wonderland and made our way straight to Faneuil Hall for some lunch. I loved the 5 million choices of food and especially loved the Christmas tree out front.  Boston-1 Boston-2 Boston-4

After lunch, we stumbled upon a Christmas market on our way to the Boston Common. Boston-6 Boston-7

At this point, the snow was really coming down. The faster it came down, the faster snowmen started popping up all over the park. It literally looked like every kid’s (and grown-ups) dream! I shed a frozen tear or two because it was just so magical.Boston-10 Boston-11 Boston-13 Boston-16
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Really soaking it all in ^^Boston-28 What a cutie ^Boston-35 Boston-40 Boston-43

Walking through the park was straight out of a movie. Everywhere you looked there were kids running through the snow, people ice skating, lights shining through the snow, and snowmen. It was stunning.Boston-44That evening we watched the Army Navy game (with an unfortunate outcome) before making our way back to the hotel.

Sunday morning we went back to a coffee shop we spotted the day before called the Thinking Cup. It was cozy and warm. We even landed perfect window seats to watch the passers by as we sipped our morning coffee. I realized, while chatting with Ben, that that exact feeling is one of my most favorite. You know, that feeling of waking up with a city. The one of walking down a street early in the morning as neighbors leave their house or the one where you pass the man walking his dogs with coffee cup in hand. I love knowing that everyone is collectively “rising and shining” and the entire city is waking up. Don’t get me wrong, I love the feeling of waking up to the crisp air in the mountains, or the stillness of a lake house. But there is something to be said with waking up in a city, sipping your coffee in a cozy coffee shop, and watching the passers by.
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Onward we walked through the park again and up towards Beacon Hill. As wonderful as the snow falling the day before was, it was equally grand to have the sun shining on our faces all morning. Boston-50 Boston-51
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We spent the afternoon wandering the streets of the north end, splitting a pizza, and grabbing a cannoli at Mike’s Pastry. I loved the character of the buildings and the history woven throughout each street.

We then caught the T down to the South End to pay a visit to the Isabel Stuart Gardner Museum and it was stunning. Essentially the most unique and beautiful collections of art I have ever seen. Seriously, go if you can!

Boston-79 Boston-80 Boston-83 Boston-84 Boston-85 Boston-88 Boston-93 Boston-94Since we were so close, we popped over the Museum of Fine Arts! Just like every other art museum we go into we got lost in the maze of galleries but loved every minute of it. Boston-97We spent the evening popping in and out of shops and bookstores and finally decided we wanted something warm for dinner, so Thai food it was ;)

After dinner, we decided to give Wally’s Cafe, a cozy jazz club tucked away in the city, a try. A little unknown fact about the Radfords– we love a good jazz club. It was such a treat and the jazz band was so incredibly talented! A perfect ending to a perfect day. Boston-103Monday morning we hit up South End Buttery for coffee and breakfast while I got some work done. Just like the day before, we hit up the window seats.
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Then it was off to Cambridge on the T! As soon as we stepped off the train my little England loving heart skipped a beat. It truly felt like we stepped right into an English town similar to so many we had visited. Something about the old buildings and similar charm. It was lovely. We spent the day around the campus and checking out a few bookstores and shops along the way. Boston-115

Then it was back to Boston to pick up our bags and head to the airport.

The weekend was just what we needed. This fall and winter our calendars and weekends were filled with events, weddings, and holidays. Although all wonderful things, we were always on the move for a specific purpose. This weekend was different. There was no purpose in mind, no agenda to fill. We simply spent the weekend exploring a new city together, playing in the snow, and sipping several cups of coffee. I think we will spend the rest of our lives perfecting the art of weekend getaways, and that is quite all right by me.

I’ll also take any excuse to spend time with this guy before our lives change, once again, in January. Boston, you were grand and just what we needed. (And I’m sorry for ever doubting your greatness.)

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Another Thanksgiving in the Books

December 1, 2017

Another Roanoke Thanksgiving is in the books and it was perfect. Fall back home truly does bring all the warm and fuzzies- the orange and red leaves over the mountains, fires out back, freezing in the Drumstick Dash, and time with both of our families.

Thanksgiving started bright and early downtown. As much as I hate the cold, there is a special place in my heart for this run every year. Ben always sprints ahead (finishing LONG before I do) and then jogs back to finish with me. How kind of him. There are familiar faces everywhere you look and it’s the best way to work up an appetite for a huge plate of turkey. roanoke thanksgiving caretolook_0117 roanoke thanksgiving caretolook_0118 After the race and a cup of coffee we headed back to the house to freshen up and tag team the cooking for the big meal! The Radfords nailed the menu this year and it was simply perfect.

We ended the night with a fire out back and a few games of Settlers of Catan. (As every night should end while home)
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Friday morning was time for my family’s “Thanksgiving”, but we’ve taken a liking to Friday morning breakfast for our tradition. This year my dad (after just getting back from his trip to New Orleans) spoiled us with a full cajun brunch. I’m talking shrimp and grits, hash browns, gumbo, and beignets. So yes, it was amazing, and I’m pretty sure Ben went up for thirds. Dad, you nailed it.

Saturday morning, what Ben and I intended for a sunrise hike, turned into a morning into afternoon hike up to Hay Rock.  roanoke thanksgiving caretolook_0105 roanoke thanksgiving caretolook_0106 roanoke thanksgiving caretolook_0107 roanoke thanksgiving caretolook_0108 roanoke thanksgiving caretolook_0109 roanoke thanksgiving caretolook_0110 roanoke thanksgiving caretolook_0111 roanoke thanksgiving caretolook_0112 roanoke thanksgiving caretolook_0113 roanoke thanksgiving caretolook_0114 roanoke thanksgiving caretolook_0115 roanoke thanksgiving caretolook_0116

Very thankful the trees still held on to their leaves for us to have this view.

Saturday evening we popped over to my brother’s hockey game and were highly entertained by Braven’s commentary the whole game. That little man is my favorite.
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Thanksgiving at home was simply perfect and I know we are both looking forward to some time at home this Christmas.

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He’s Home

October 4, 2017

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This sweet man of mine is finally home. Back with me. Back in our home. Back doing life together. I know I was quiet on here for the past six months. This little place felt like a place of our story, our weeks,  and our adventures so it felt strange to write about my time without him. But deployment was our story and it was one of growth, adventure, learning, longing, and dreaming.

My six months in Nashville were so full. When Ben asked me what my hopes were for Nashville I replied that it would be a dream to have walks with friends, coffee shop mornings, pursuing photography a bit more, a place to call home, and a tangible sense of community. Goodness did Nashville exceed any dream I had. Nashville wiggled its way so deep into my heart and every single one of my hopes I had became reality. That may sound a bit dramatic, but when you move around a lot those little things start to mean the world to you.

Those six months I missed Ben sorely. I missed him in the small moments of the day, such as sharing morning coffee, and in the big moments, like our anniversary. I missed my travel pal, my wedding date, and my best friend. I missed getting to walk through hard times together and laugh about the silly things. I missed dinner conversations and always having my dance partner on hand. I just really missed him.

But, at the same time, these six months were just what we both needed. It was such a gift to both go after our own dreams and passions but still know that we are on each other’s team. I’m his #1 fan and I know I can say the same about him. We both fulfilled dreams and learned so much.

All that to say, it was a hard and wonderful six months, but boy am I glad you are home, Ben. Even though I had to pick you up at 1am in the morning, fell asleep in the car, and our battery died ;)

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care to watch | andalusia

September 6, 2017

Gosh, this trip was the best.

Music:
LANY | ILYSB

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An Andalusia Reunion

August 30, 2017

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Let me start off by saying 5 months is a heck of a long time and deployment is no joke. In fact, #Deploymentsucks. In that same breath, I truly feel Ben and I have made the most of this deployment. To be honest, I wouldn’t wish Ben home. It has been such a sweet season of both of us pursuing our own dreams and adventures all while knowing we are on each other’s team. I wouldn’t trade that for the world. With that being said, every day I miss him sorely in both the big things and small. His tangible absence is felt when I have to make road trips by myself or when I attempt to figure car issues. When I have to eat the same thing the whole week since he isn’t there to devour the leftovers and especially when our favorite songs come on. It was hard celebrating holidays from afar and settling for Facetime conversations where you only hear every other word and see frozen faces. I’ve just missed my person doing life alongside me (and not in different continents). Because of all that, this reunion was so, so sweet and my heart was incredibly happy.

I woke up bright and early in Paris and anxiously departed for the airport. The entire flight I was so excited and my stomach was doing flips. This only heightened while waiting at the baggage claim (of course they had to check my bag…) and I got a text from Ben that he was waiting for me right outside the gate. We proceeded to text in only all caps things like “WHERE IS MY BAG” and “I’M SO EXCITED” and “HURRY UP”. My carry-on suitcase finally popped up and I beelined it for the door. It’s possible I was in a steady sprint, it’s hard to say. I finally found him and full on ran into his arms with tears streaming down my face. The sweetest reunion. The countdown was finally over. Gosh, it felt so good to hug and kiss that husband of mine. I really can’t put into words just how wonderful it was.

After we hugged for a good long while we hit the road, making our first stop into Malaga for some lunch and a quick beach sighting.

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I’m pretty sure my smile remained that big the entire weekend.

We filled the hour long car ride with the sounds of the radio station alternating in between Spanish and random American songs and conversation (that was not over email, text, or the phone but IN PERSON!)

We drove through the mountains to where we were staying for the weekend and man, I really hit this one out of the park in regards to lodging and location. Through my impeccable search tactics, I somehow stumbled upon the Lemon Tree Retreat and THIS PLACE IS A DREAM. From the moment we pulled up, we knew this was going to be good. The farmhouse style bed and breakfast is tucked away in the fields and mountains of Andalucia. In every direction, there is a stunning view and the buildings themselves are lovely with their white facades. I’m not sure any images or words can accurately depict just how perfect it all was.Spain-7

We dropped our bags and quickly raced out back to the pool before getting ready for dinner. Spain-8 Spain-10 What. A. Guy.Spain-13 Spain-15 Spain-16 The sunsets here seem to be extra golden. Spain-17 Spain-18 Spain-19Our sweet hosts prepared a three-course dinner almost completely made from their garden. It was to die for and such a sweet way to end our first night. Spain-20

The next morning we were greeted with morning sun peeking through the window. Spain-21 Spain-23

If there is one thing I love on holiday– it is a huge spread of fresh fruit, bread, and coffee for breakfast. Spain-24 Spain-26 Spain-27

After breakfast, we hopped in the car with beach items in tow. After the most beautiful (and treacherous) drive to the coast, we arrived in Nerja and hit the beach for a picnic lunch. Spain-30 Spain-32 Spain-34 It was the perfect little beach for the afternoon.Spain-35 Spain-36 Spain-38 Spain-41 Spain-48 Spain-49 Spain-51

We strolled through the bustling streets before heading back to our sweet little abode and obviously more pool time. Spain-54 Spain-55

Ben had apparently had his eye on the flamingo float he spotted by the pool the day before. It was a roaring success.
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Spain-67 Spain-68 Spain-71 After a few hours at the pool we freshened up and drove about 15 minutes to the next little town of white buildings tucked away in the mountains for dinner. Spain-75 Spain-79 Spain-81 Spain-84

We lucked out and spotted a wedding finishing up with the getaway car ready ;)Spain-87

That evening, we sipped on the best gin and tonics while laying on the pool chairs watching the stars. Something that was so simple, yet so needed. Spain-93 Spain-96

On Sunday, Ben arranged for us to go to Granada to see the Alhambra. We aren’t usually one for “touristy” things, but oh my goodness this was beautiful. It is this massive palace with gardens in every direction. Should you find yourself in Granada, do yourself a favor and go!
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I’m not kidding when I say the gardens went on for days. Every time you took a turn you were in a new perfectly manicured garden full of colorful flowers. I probably hit a new record for times I said, “this is so pretty.”  Ben, these gardens make up for the fact that we ate Sunchips and peanuts for lunch ;) (it’s a long story…)Spain-125 Spain-129 Spain-130 He knows me so well to think to bring me to this magical place.
Spain-139 Spain-140 Spain-142 We were just so happy.Spain-144

We ended our night in Granada with a few tapas before heading back home.

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Monday morning we soaked up the last bit of sun in this dream land before drudgingly driving back towards the airport (which I’m learning is such a place of great joy and many tears). My flight wasn’t until the evening so relished every last minute together in Malaga. A little wandering was paired with gelato and all was well. The time finally came for Ben to drop me off at the airport. In my head I was thinking, “sure, I’ve got this…I won’t make a scene…I get to see him in a month…I’m fine”. But my tears had a mind of their own and I indeed created a scene at the Malaga airport. Goodbyes will never be easy with this one. But goodness I am so thankful for someone who makes them this hard. So grateful to know he’s always on my team no matter what countries we are in.  Spain-181Spain-171

These few days with Ben were exactly what we needed. We were craving stillness, rest, and sweet, intentional time together and that is just what we got. Ben and I have traveled a good bit, but this is the first time that I truly felt we escaped reality. We were in our own little world in those Andalucia hills. There were no stresses of my never ending to do list, no emails to answer, no agenda to the day. Our only job was to simply be and enjoy the simplest of things. I will forever hold this reunion so dear to my heart.

Ben, I’ll meet you just about anywhere on this Earth, but goodness I am excited for you to be home. It’s a joy to be on this adventure with you.

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A Pit Stop in Paris

August 29, 2017

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When we found out Ben was deploying to Spain I told him I was determined to see him, to which he replied, “Care, I’m deploying, you can’t do that.” To this, I replied, “Who do you think I am?” Thus began my adventure of how to a) get to Europe and b) see Ben.

I’ve recently become intrigued obsessed with the whole concept of cheap flights. So, I got on a mailing list for Scott’s Cheap Flights (which is the real hero of this whole adventure, do yourself a favor and sign up) and stumbled upon a flight to Paris that I simply could not pass up. My thought process was that France was close enough to Spain and I would iron out all the other details at a later date. I was confident; Ben was still skeptical. He has since learned to trust me when it comes to planning adventures. All this to say, we worked it all out and this trip was a dream come true. I was reunited with my two loves– Ben (most importantly) and Europe.

On to my Paris trip! Well first I got to spend the weekend with Liz and Ashton in Atlanta and that always makes for a grand time. Such a treat to stay at their new house and get to spend so many days together! On Tuesday, I made my way to the airport and started on my journey. Sadly, the weekend before I left I started feeling sick. Naturally, I practically bought the entire shelf at Walgreens and did everything in my power to not get sick. I failed. On my second flight over the pond, the pressure in my head from my ears got so intense I began to frantically look around, tears streaming down my face, to see if anyone appeared to be a doctor. I was convinced that my head was literally going to blow up and medical assistance was necessary. Sounds dramatic now, but man was it terrible. The last two hours of that flight and the entirety of the next one was honestly miserable. No inflight entertainment could cure me. I landed in Paris, with the ability to hear in only one of my ears, and made my way into the city and directly to my bed in the Airbnb. Bummed that I wasn’t making the most of my first day in Paris, I still only longed to sleep off whatever was going on in my head. Several hours later, I woke up feeling less miserable and noticed a text from Christy that they were heading to a few flower markets to gather flowers for the bouquet. I was in!

So, let me explain. Back in Nashville, once I figured out I was going to be in Paris for a few days, I wanted to set up a shoot with a couple in Paris because, well, why not! Social media did a really cool thing and connected me with Christy and Elizabeth, a photographer and stylist, who were also going to be in Paris while I was! Plot twist: they asked me if I would be willing to wear a dress in front of the Eiffel Tower for a sunrise shoot. LIKE WHAT LITTLE GIRL HAS NOT DREAMED OF THIS HER WHOLE LIFE?!?! So, fast forward to the morning before the shoot and we meandered through the streets to put together the perfect Parisian bouquet of flowers. After foraging, we enjoyed dinner at a cafe and rested up before our early morning. I took the scenic route home to where I was staying and it did not disappoint.Paris-2 Paris-3 Paris-7 Paris-6 Paris-8

My alarm went off at 5:30 and I was giddy with excitement! I put a few curls in my hair before meeting them at their place and ubering to the Eiffel Tower. All week it was calling for rain, but the sky decided to gift us with these beautiful pink clouds and blue skies instead. Paris-9

Christy and Elizabeth worked their magic on the bouquet and it ended up being more beautiful than we could have imagined!  Paris-11 It was a quiet morning with just me, my bare feet, and the Eiffel Tower. I mean, COME ON! Christy shot the shoot on film and I am just so excited to see her work! Here are just a few I had her snap on my camera for me! Paris-16 Paris-17 Paris-18 Paris-23 Paris-22 Paris-24 Paris-25 Paris-26 Paris-28 Architecture usually doesn’t produce the water works for me, but man the Eiffel Tower always makes me shed a tear or two. Paris-30 Paris-31

After our shoot, we popped into a bakery (as one does) for a croissant and cafe au lait and walked towards Notre Dame and the Luxembourg Gardens. Last time I was in Paris was for my birthday a few years ago and it was such a treat to go back to these spots in the warmer weather with fresh blooms. Paris-34 Paris-35 Paris-40 Paris-42 Paris-44

I spent the afternoon bopping in and out of shops and grabbing myself some more bread to consume. Paris-45

A little corner of my cozy Airbnb.Paris-46 Paris-47 Paris-48 Paris-50

It was that afternoon that Katherine and I realized that we had somehow miscalculated and we were both in Paris at the same time! Honestly, what are the odds?! So it was settled– a picnic at the Eiffel Tower was in order. Kat and JD were so, so kind to let me join in on this romantic occasion.  Paris-51 Paris-52

I am obsessed with them and will happily third wheel any day. (But actually, next time I would like if Ben attended)
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I adore you, sweet Kat.
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We waited out the rain and were very much rewarded. Last time I was in Paris I didn’t get to see the full twinkle effect of the tower. This time, I was determined not to miss it and it did not disappoint. At 9 o’clock it lit up and my heart was so incredibly happy. It is truly a sight to see. Paris-75 Paris-79Paris-76

What was meant to be a quick stop before making my way to Spain ended up being better than I could dream or imagine. I fulfilled every little girl’s dream at sunrise, made a few new friends, and spent time with one of my favorite duos.

Paris is truly one of the most beautiful, romantic cities and never disappoints.

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Steph and Ben

June 2, 2017

I’ve said it here, here, here, here, and here. White House reunions make my heart so incredibly happy, especially when a wedding is involved. This time, it was Steph’s turn to be in the middle of all the pictures ;)

I flew into Dallas on Friday evening and got to slumber party it up with Liz and Ashton. Our Thai food delivery and Beauty and the Beast watching really set the scene for a perfect evening catching up. Liz and I kept on with tradition and woke up on Saturday morning for a little workout before Kate and Davis picked us all up to head to McKinney.

All the bridesmaids had a lovely morning of manicures and pedicures and a bridal brunch. It was the best and such a treat to celebrate Steph.

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After brunching it up, we headed back to Steph’s house for a bit by the poolside and freshened up for the sweetest rehearsal dinner. Stephanie-Wedding-28 Stephanie-Wedding-29 Stephanie-Wedding-32

God love these two ^^Stephanie-Wedding-41

Then it was WEDDING DAY AND TIME TO GET THIS GIRL MARRIED. Steph was absolutely stunning, I mean talk about a vision! From her hair to her dress to the joy on her face it was all so perfect.
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After the wedding it was naturally time for a White House photoshoot strongly featuring the many faces of James.
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Honeslty obsessed with them and so sad to be missing sweet Kat! Stephanie-Wedding-64

Dream flipping team. My heart is so full. Stephanie-Wedding-71 Also, round of applause for all the White House girls choosing top notch guys. Stephanie-Wedding-74 Stephanie-Wedding-83 Stephanie-Wedding-91 Stephanie-Wedding-95 Stephanie-Wedding-101 Stephanie-Wedding-113 Stephanie-Wedding-115 Stephanie-Wedding-118

Just really thankful for every one of these friends, for weddings, and for celebrations.

Here’s to you, Steph and Ben!

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Nashville

May 30, 2017

If you would have told me a few months ago that I would be living in Nashville and Ben would be deployed in April I am not sure I’d believe you. With the news of Ben’s last minute deployment, I knew I wasn’t going to stay in New Bern by myself. A few days after the deployment was pretty set in stone we were sitting on the couch and I turned to Ben and said, “What if I moved to Nashville?” One thing after another quickly fell into place and it became so clear that this was truly what I was suppose to do.

We left Thursday evening and made a pit stop for the night in Charlotte. Our dear friends Liz and Ed let us stay with them and it was such a treat. Anytime I can see on of my White House reunions I’ll take it. Even if it means quickly catching up at 6am over coffee.We hit the road towards Nashville with podcasts lined up. I feel like every hour I switch emotions. There was excitement that led to anxiousness, then doubt sprinkled with tears, and then huge smiles at the though of living in such a dream place. One could say I was a basket case. Five hours later we pulled in to my new home and the unpacking began. Something Ben and I are becoming all too acquainted with. Friday was strictly business: moving in, building furniture, and a few trips to the store. Might I add that Ben and I make one heck of a building furniture team. No piece of cheap furniture is a match for us.

Saturday was such a wonderful change of pace. I really got to show Ben the Nashville I fell in love with. Our slow morning was filled with coffee and treats at Frothy Monkey. Sweet Ben also handed me a box of letters for each day while he is deployed leading to a stream of tears. Flashback about six years ago before Ben left for plebe summer he handed me a box of letters. One letter for every day of the summer. This little tradition is so dear to my heart, but frankly I’d be fine if we didn’t have to do it again ;) I do love him so dearly.

 

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We then strolled across the street to Five Daughters Donuts to split a maple bacon doughnut.

Onward we went, driving around the city and stopping downtown at the Farmer’s market. We spent some time in Gardens of Babylon plant shop where Ben patiently waited for me to swoon over every piece of greenery.

After spotting the bikes out of the corner of our eye we decided to to take them for a spin. We biked around downtown before heading to Pinewood Social for brunch. We walked around a bit more, swung a big on the swings, and took the bikes for one last spin before heading back to get ready for a few pictures.

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God love Ben and God love Ellie for capturing these. What a sweet way to remember this time in our lives and to have an early celebration of three years.

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We ended the night with drinks Urban Cowboy with Hope and Clay. I love when my world’s collide. To end our food tour of Nashville we had dinner at Burger Up. It was the perfect last day together.

Sunday morning was hard. We woke up around 5 and as soon as the alarm went off there were tears in my eyes. Impending goodbyes are hard to deal with. We packed up the car and Ben ran back inside to grab a box of tissues for me.

At the airport Ben held me so tightly and let me weep. We shared a million I love you’s and after several good byes I finally got back in the car and pulled away. Since the moment we learned of the deployment, that was the moment I was dreading. The actual goodbye.

As hard as it was, it was still the sweetest weekend in my new city with Ben that I will forever cherish.

Goodbyes are hard, especially for someone who feels so deeply (that’s me). But, I’m incredibly thankful for a man that makes it so hard to say goodbye. I’m excited to see what adventures we will both have over the next sixth months. How we will grow, what we will learn, and what’s in sotre for us. I am especially excited for when we get to say hello again.

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Savannah

February 14, 2017

This past weekend we had a little weekend getaway in Savannah to celebrate Valentine’s Day, my birthday, and any holiday we’ll miss out on these next six months. February decided to act like spring with 75 degree days and plenty of sunshine.

We woke up long before the sun on Saturday morning and hit the road with coffee in hand. We switched off taking naps and pulled into Savannah right in time for an early lunch. Zunzi’s was calling our name for lunch in the park.

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After lunch we hopped in and out of the shops on Broughton.

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Paris Market is one of my absolute favorite shops. With French music playing in the background and everything in the shop being absolutely stunning, it is a must visit.

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As the afternoon approached, it was time for a pick me up at The Coffee Fox, another Savannah favorite. We enjoyed our drinks while listening to live music in the market and loving every minute of the sun shining on our faces. Summer in February is a gift.

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After freshening up back at the hotel, we made our way back out in search of the perfect happy hour spot. I made sure we took just about every detour to stroll through the picturesque streets. This place is beautiful.

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Always looking for a perfect perch for a nice self timer picture.

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We stumbled upon Hitch and really hit the jackpot. Their menu is bizarre and perfect. Think chicken pancake tacos, cheesesteak eggrolls, and pb&j wings. Our waiter said we had to try the nachos so that we did. Holy moly.

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After drinks and nachos we head out for a few more drinks and ended with a MASSIVE slice of Hawaiian pizza from Vinnie Van Go Go’s. All in all, an incredibly healthy day.

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After our incredibly healthy Saturday, Sunday morning begged us to go for a run. We did a few laps around Forsyth Park, looped back to check out my old summer abode, and snaked back to our hotel. We headed straight for Foxy Loxy after our run for coffee and a cream cheese kolache and bacon and egg kolache. As the temperature rose to the mid 70s and the sun began to peak out behind the clouds, we sipped our coffee and enjoyed a slow morning.

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I told Ben I didn’t care when, but Leopold’s was 100% in our weekend agenda. We enjoyed our ice cream cones outside before hitting the road. It was even better than I remembered.

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Savannah holds the dearest spot in our hearts. The summer before my senior year I did an internship there and Ben was able to visit a few times. It was that summer we had several conversations sitting in the park of, “Are we really doing this thing?” and “What is life going to look like these next few years?” A few months later Ben proposed to me and our adventure started. I loved sitting in this city again having conversations of similar tune such as, “We’re really doing this” and “What are these six months of deployment going to look like?”

Walking through life together is the best. I always cherish these weekend getaways to celebrate birthdays, anniversaries, and everything in between.

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