Valentine's Day 2014 (1st as a married woman!)

I've always loved this holiday--whether the year that I celebrated with girl friends, or the one that I had 3 valentines (unbeknownst to them). I love "love"...the idea of it. While the gifts are nice and all, I  just like the reminder to appreciate those who are special in one's  life--romantic and otherwise.

Luckily, I married a man who sweeps me off my feet every day. I really was not expecting anything special for Valentine's day. But still, my amazing hubby spoiled me with surprises. More than I could have imagined.

I came home to gorgeous flowers (Lilies, of course) and a shiny box tied with a bow (wowowow). And from the oven was emerging an amazingly scrumptious aroma. As a throwback to our 2nd date ever, he baked some artistic bruschetta (think artichoke, roasted garlic, herbed goat cheese, etc, baked to caramelized perfection).

And, if that wasn't enough, sparkly diamonds (from our favorite Portland jewelers, LaRog Brothers)! Eliav was very specific about what he wanted--an "estate piece" that I can wear everyday. And since he placed it around my neck, I have not taken it off.

***NOTE: as I write this 3 weeks after V-day, my flowers are still vibrantly blooming. While Eliav likes to think it's because he chooses well, I think it's because we keep our heat down to almost freezing. Whoops (and yay)!

What, What?!

Yes, I'm doing it. I'm entering back into the blogging world. "Why?", you ask? Well, my last project was quite the success! You may remember that, due to the blogging world, I met my (now) husband!

For those that don't remember, a lovely friend and I embarked on a dating "adventure," of sorts--the goal was to go on 100 (*gasp*) dates and keep a record of our undertaking. A few years (and innumerable awkward rendezvous) later, we are both joyfully married to amazing men! 

Whenever I tell others about my "100 dates" project, I emphasize the idea that "dating" should NEVER stop just because you're married! Huh?!

My favorite college professors once illustrated that we work so hard on improving many aspects of our lives (gym classes for physical fitness, academic courses for career success, etc), but when it comes to marriage, our efforts fall by the wayside. The partnership that we've embarked upon is arguably the most important relationship in our lives--and we should dedicate as much effort to that arena as we do to others. 

So, this blog is my pledge & commitment to keep our love & marriage strong for decades-worth of anniversaries. Through nights on the town, love notes, global adventures, tasty treats, sweaty dancing, hot air balloons and brunches, I vow to continue working at this until we're old, grey, and covered in wrinkles. I know we'll have our fair share of fights and challenges, but those are risks I'm willing to take. I'm in it for the long haul!