With my impending move to the United Kingdom, plus my sick love for British history (how weird am I?) I am the perfect candidate to fall head over heels in love with the show Downton Abbey.  Haven’t heard of it?  Where have you been??  It follows the story of the staff and family at Downtown Abbey beginning in 1912.  This show is amazing… each episode is like a little mini-movie.  Lush in costumes, set design, plot and more… I literally cannot say enough about this show.  And the best part?  You can watch it all on PBS (get this) for FREE online!

I am about two episodes behind from this week’s season finale, so I can’t share how I am reacting to the end of Season 2.  (Which aired on Feb. 19th) But to hook you in, I included the trailer for the show here:

Are you already a fan Downton Abbey? Check out this amazing paper doll collection from Vulture!  Keep the magic alive by creating your own paper doll collection…

Credit: Vulture

Wedding planning is stressful, trying to think of each and every detail from guest list to dress fittings it call all be quite overwhelming.  But, as an anal planner, I expected this. What I didn’t expect, was the feelings of sadness I am experiencing as I sincerely miss my grandfather who passed away in 2008.  He was  funny and smart and caring with a bit of humor too.  He always like playing jokes on us grandchildren.  I remember a time when he had my sister and I convinced that he was in fact Mr. Rogers.  (Who he looked so much like too.)  Each time the show was on, he kidded with us that his show was on.  It was only until I was older (years later in fact) did I realize that he was not in fact Mr. Rogers.

Me & My Grandpa, circa 1983(?)

He was a traveler, a reader and man who had adventures and took on the world.  In that regard I had more in common with my Grandpa than I ever realized.  The similarities, is causing my sadness and maybe a bit of residual grief.    He was my last surviving grandparent, and I always thought he would be there for my wedding, and I guess I am now dealing with the fact that he won’t be.

As I am selecting readings or music selections, I find myself moving towards All-Things-Mr. Rogers even though I know they won’t make the wedding cut.  For some reason, I just can’t help myself.

Lyrics to It’s You I Like:
It’s you I like,
It’s not the things you wear,
It’s not the way you do your hair–
But it’s you I like
The way you are right now,
The way down deep inside you–
Not the things that hide you,
Not your toys–
They’re just beside you.
But it’s you I like–
Every part of you,
Your skin, your eyes, your feelings
Whether old or new.
I hope that you’ll remember
Even when you’re feeling blue
That it’s you I like,
It’s you yourself,
It’s you, it’s you I like.

I know that on my wedding day, he will be with Neal and I wishing us the best and all the goodness in the world.

Cheers,

Today, I decided to take on yet another DIY project all in the name of the wedding.  This idea, once again, was sparked by the loved Pinterest (my head is swimming with ideas on a daily basis). It was based off of Four Flights of Fancy’s post for an Ombre Striped Bag which was done for Valentine’s Day…. I took this idea applied it to the wedding!   On the “Big Day” I am going to pre-stock the bags for the ladies with all the needed supplies to make it through the day: snacks, bottle of water, tissues and more.   I loved the idea of making these canvas tote bags for my bridesmaids, especially something they can use again.

The Supplies

I really wanted to use the peacock colors so I picked purples, blues and teals.  I just loved how the paint all looked together.  I knew I picked this color palette for a reason.

The Paint Colors

Waiting for the Paint to Dry...

The Finished Bag!

In case you are wondering, the project cost breakdown:

• Canvas Tote Bags: $10 (for six)
• Paint $3
• Sponge Brushes $5
• Painters Tape $3

When I was growing up, I loved reading Nancy Drew books.  From the mystery and the intrigue, my favorite part was how she gathered clues and evidence to prove a case.   I had to use my adult Nancy Drew skills in my recent visa application to the UK.   (The application has been accepted and is pending final paperwork from Neal and I.  We should hear back soon…)   The funniest section to pull together for the visa, was “Evidence that You & Your Sponsor Have Met”.  Think about it, can you imagine gathering evidence of a relationship since the beginning?  Saving plane tickets to telephone records?  I felt our relationship was under a microscope (and for good reason…it technically is.)

Now, the question that I pose to my blog readers… how would you prove your relationship?  What evidence would you provide if someone asked?  Consider saving the evidence: movie tickets, notes from flower delivery, snapshots, e-mails… and placing it somewhere special and untouchable.   And if this is the relationship to end all relationships, you’ll be glad you saved the evidence.  (If it ends… you know what to do: wine+ fireplace+ a diva playlist = vanishing the evidence…)

Just a thought this Thursday afternoon…

Cheers everyone!

I don’t think you can have a blog titled, “Found Love. Now What?” without posting on today…Valentine’s Day.  Yes, I know.. I know.  It’s cliche.  It’s commercial.  The holiday uses all the red roses from California and probably South America.   We eat cakes, cupcakes, pieces of chocolate…. and yet we either love the day or love to hate the holiday.  But no matter what our relationship status is each of us has someone to love (and who loves us in return).   If you look around, love is really all around.  Sometimes, it’s not perfect or pretty… but love is always constant and present.

I can honestly say, that I truly love my blog readers.  You take the time to read, comment and share my blog…which is a true labor of love.  For your support and constant cheer leading with all that is mixing in my life, I say a sincere “Thank you”.

I thank all of the friends and family in my life who provide constant love and support.  And of course, it goes without saying that I sincerely thank  Neal for his love, patience and constant support. So to the love of my life Neal, a very Happy Valentines Day.

Although Neal and I are apart for Valentine’s Day, we exchanged gifts (his is still en route, so I can’t share yet) and will more than likely chat tonight.  No candlelight dinners for us this year, but that’s okay…we have a whole lifetime of Valentine’s Days together.

With that, I wish you all…each and every one of you… L.O.V.E.  In any way shape or form…

PS– Curious what my BIG Valentine’s plans are?  Blogging and watching Downton Abbey.  Being in an LDR is sometimes (just sometimes) like being single…. Next Valentine’s Day I can’t wait to celebrate it with Neal.  It will be our first together!

This weekend marks a year ago when  Neal asked me to marry him.  I was surprised and thrilled while thinking of our life together.  This week, marks the countdown for our wedding on May 26th.  As a blogging bride, I am running into friends and family who follow the blog religiously (thank you for your support).   Co-workers, friend, family members have all asked me how my wedding planning is going.  With about 100 days left, I am not so concerned about the planning of the wedding it’s the planning of our life together.  That to me is more important to centerpieces or programs, flowers or (yes) even shoes.

Recently a friend asked me, “Are you nervous or scared?”  And, I would be lying if I said I wasn’t.  On a daily basis, I wonder if the move will be successful, how I will assimilate into the culture in the UK (or Neal’s life for that matter) and if I will be able to be a good enough wife for Neal.  These thoughts swimming throughout my head causes a bit of a panic and stress to rise rather quickly.  (Not to fish for well wishes, but I have had my fair share of a panic attack or two.)

And then  I realize, one of things I love most about Neal will help us handle the upcoming stress: his patience and ability to believe in me.    Neal, even from afar, is supportive especially when listening to this bride bitch and moan about place cards, dress fittings and more.  Neal has the patience  to listen, ask questions thoughtfully while giving advice for the next best steps.   Neal also believes in me, probably more than I believe in myself sometimes.  From baking cupcakes to getting in better shape (I’ve never written a more odd statement) Neal is constantly cheering me on, because he really and truly believes in me.  Neal is understanding that my life is getting flipped upside down and he believes that the dust will settle and life will become normal.

I can’t imagine being any luckier than I am to marry Neal.

These are just some musings on this Sunday afternoon.

Cheers….

Yes, I know that it is Wednesday… Yes I know the magic of the Super Bowl with Gisele, Tom Brady, Madonna has passed into the recesses of our mind, but I still wanted to shared with each of you my magical contribution to the Super Bowl party I attended….

Sundae Cupcakes for Super Bowl Sunday!!

I have to tell you, that these couples tasted as fantastic as they looked.  And yet again, they were beyond simple!  All you have to do is make a batch of chocolate cupcakes…from there take corn syrup, butter and chocolate melt by using a double boil.  Then take heavy whipping cream with a bit of sugar and whip it…whip it good.  (I just had to put a Devo reference in there!) Place whipped cream into a frosting bag…. swirl that goodness on the cupcake, drizzle chocolate sauce..sprinkle nuts and sprinkles and top with a cherry.  The Super Bowl party was beyond impressed! And they were beyond simple.

I’m not sure what my next cupcake challenge will be, but hopefully something that works for the upcoming Valentine’s Day holiday!

As for my other 2012 resolutions, I have been doing really well.  I’ve been hitting up the gym (about 4-5 times per week), readings all the time (currently on “How to be an American Housewife”), and living life with plenty of sparkle.  To add to my “Keep On Dancin’”  Neal gave me Zumba the Wii for Valentine’s Day.  I gave it a shot tonight after work, and oh-my-goodness it is going to kick my butt. (And I do believe that is the whole idea.)

Wondering what my big plans are for the upcoming weekend?  Making peonies out of coffee filters and yarn letters. (I am such a crafty bride!)  Don’t worry, I will post an blog update for those fellow crafty brides in the blogging world!

As many of you may know (through previous blog posts) I love the show The Bachelor/ette.   The reason isn’t the show per say… it’s because each week a group of friends get together for dinner, dessert, reality tv watching and catching up.  It’s become a great tradition. and something I will surely miss when I move to the UK.   With my love for the Bachelor, and treating my friends, I was excited to make cupcakes today for tomorrow’s get together.  Since the show is moving to the tropical location of Puerto Rico, I decided to make Pineapple Upsidedown Cupcakes!

Pineapple Upsidedown Cupcakes

These were super easy to make, and unlike last week, I didn’t set off an alarm once.  (For me, this is a major victory!)  All you have to do is use a basic yellow cake mix for your cupcake.  For the topping, mix brown sugar (1 C) and brown sugar (6 T), and melt.  Pour into cupcake pan pre-sprayed with cooking spray.  Place pineapple and half a cherry… pour batter into tins and cook for about 17 minutes.  Trust me, these are simply divine and a great addition to the Bachelor tomorrow!  I am excited….

n addition to learning how to make cupcakes to wow friends at TV watching get togethers (just wait to see what I make for the Super Bowl next week!), I am also jumping into the fad of juicing.  You see, I am trying to up my veggie and fruits in order to get more healthy (and to off set the cupcakes!).  This weekend I juiced kale, beets, carrots, ginger, grapefruit, oranges, cucumbers, apples and more.  The idea is up my intake of the “good stuff”, and after a week… I am feeling the difference.

Homemade Juice... Packed with Vitamins! YUM

I am going to keep this up in prep for wedding beautification.  I mean, you can’t go wrong with homemade juice of beets, carrots, ginger and apples…right?

As for other 2012 Resolution Updates:

Now that we are nearly down with January, it’s time to take a look a how I am doing with my resolutions.

• Reading More: I am at about 60% complete for the Paris Wife, and I am in LOVE.  It’s a great read.  I should tackle it by the end of this week, getting me ready for my next read (TBD) of 2012.
• Remembering to Sparkle: I am making a daily effort to compliment others, use good manners and try to contribute positive energy/juju into the world.  And you know what?  I believe it’s working.  It’s making my days go by more smoothly… and it’s bringing great joy to others!
• Learning New Recipes: Check and Check
• Keep on Dancin’: This week alone, I have worked out at the gym four times which is a major improvement for myself!  I’m planning on doing the same next week.  Also, I’ve been in touch with a dance studio to set up private lessons for Neal and I to take lessons in March.  Such fun!
• Welcome Changes with Grace & Open Arms:  Now, this resolution I have been struggling with.  My life (as I anticipated) has massive changes on the horizon which is causing me anxiety and stress. (Hence the helpfulness of working out and eating well.) The other thing that is helping me get through the stress?  My darling Neal.  He is supportive and thoughtful wanting to always make sure that although he isn’t here he is from afar.  One of the biggest things that I love about Neal is his ever constant (and unending) patience.  For that, he is remarkable.

How are you, my lovely blog reader, doing with your resolutions and promises for 2012?  Keep up the good work all!

Have a marvelous and wonderful week!

Cheers,

In an attempt to broaden my cooking and baking knowledge in 2012 as part of my resolutions, I have decided to attempt to try to learn a recipe a month.  For January, I decided to beat the winter blues by creating a cupcake filled with citrus zest and a delish topping…enter in the the Lemon Meringue cupcake.

This cupcake was a two-process from creating the batter from stratch to a lemon curd (the filling in the cupcake) plus a the meringue topping.  I will say that everything was clipping right along in this cupcake making process until I made the meringue.  Now the directions were fairly scary, including creating a simple sugar syrup then pouring into a egg white mixture without touching the grease free bowl or mixer.   I turned my back for about 10 seconds a low and behold the syrup was burnt.  When I added it to the egg white mixture,  it created sugar crystals…. wrong for this recipe.   Round One: The simple syrup won. I thought I would roll with the punches here, I added the meringue to the cupcakes to be broiled for a perfect tint.  I began doing the dishes and got fairly distracted (I do this when I am in the kitchen…) and low and behold (again) the topping on the cupcakes, well burned.  Awesome.  Just awesome.   Round Two: Meringue won.

From that moment I removed the meringue topping and started all over. This time, I won and took on this recipe with flying colors. Yes please, thank you very much.   Just in time for yesterday’s episode of ABC’s The Bachelor.  Perfection.

Lemon Meringue Cupcakes!

Next up?  Pineapple Upside Down Cupcakes.  Yummy!

PS- In case you are wondering, my current read is The Paris Wife by Paula McLain.  I am at 25% (thank you Kindle) and really enjoying it.

The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern

Well, in an effort to keep my personal promises (both to myself and to the lovely blog readers out there) I have decided to post how I am doing in my 2012 “resolutions/goals“:

First, I have completed my first read of 2012 which was goal #1.  The title of this novel is The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern.  And from a scale of 1 to 10, it was easily a 8.5.  This book was filled with magic, imagination and plenty of mystery.  The author painted a rich tapestry of a divine world, that you never wanted to have end.  Simply stated, it was delicious… especially with all of the cold, wet winter outside my window.   If you are looking for a new read, I would 100% recommend this book!

My reading goal has been expedited by another goal: to keep on movin.  You see when I hit the gym, I love reading my Kindle.  It makes the time on the elliptical machine literally fly on by.   I am sticking to burning calories, getting in shape…with the overall goal of May 26th in the forefront of my mind.

As for the cupcakes, I am going to attempt a new recipe at some point this weekend…. I will be sure to keep you all posted on my success or failure.