Weekend Update

I guess it's pretty hard to give a post-weekend update when I lacked heavily in the photo department. With so much going on I didn't even think to plan ahead and charge my camera battery - I hate it when my absent mind gets the best of me. Luckily the iPhone was there as a backup to give us some dimly lit stills, which is exactly how the girls in the 20's chronicled their nights out during the Great Depression...I just love it when life comes full circle.

First up, Robbie and Whitney's engagement party! I must say, what a duo. I have been so lucky to call Robbie one of my closest friends over the past few years and there is nothing like seeing someone happy. Whitney came into his life almost a year ago and it has been a whirlwind since. There is nothing than I appreciate more than a couple that finds the joy in the everyday and grows to love each other even more with every quirky glimpse into their life. All for the sake of love, I opted to make a small wedding cake replica for their party. There is nothing I love more than a stressful task and this was no different. I spent the better part of an entire evening carefully baking (read: demolishing our kitchen) 4 pans worth of vanilla cake, all the while mixing 3 lbs worth of confectioners sugar into homemade icing. Because really, calories don't count when you're in love. However, I am happy to report that I (with the help of Ali!) pulled it off. With a few strategically placed hydrangeas as the finishing touch (to hide the ugly parts), I was able to successfully wish the newly engaged couple my congratulations.

Behold!

Next up, a Friday night soiree thrown by three guys. I know, I know...surprising, huh? Soiree...guys? Well, all I can say is that I was pleasantly surprised from top to bottom. I don't know about you, but nothing says more to me than a hand-written invite mailed a month in advance. From the very beginning, the attention to detail did not go unnoticed with this affair, and frankly, it was worth it. As mounted animals lined their house in various Christmas gear, I couldn't help but think that these guys really spared no expense. One of the roommates managed the varying tasks of bartender, raffle announcer, birthday boy and host, with such ease that I could have sworn he was born for entertaining. It was one of those parties that ended up better than anticipated, which is just the best. I happen to believe that there are nothing like happy surprises to undecided expectations, I'd like to think that it leaves more margin for success rather than error.

(And because I'm terrible, I have not one photo from this evening. Just picture a bunch of 20-somethings mingling and checking each other out in their Christmas best...was there a line back there? Oh, I already crossed it? Great. Grand. Wonderful.)

Last up, a Gatsby-themed cocktail thrown by yet another group of guys (believe it or not, I don't think Hell has frozen over yet). This night had such promise in that it was for a good cause, it had a theme (20s! flappers! fishnets!), and combined a fun group of people. I must say, it took me back to my date party days as 4 of us collectively got ready, exchanged various accessories and joked about what the night would hold. Complete with red lipstick, we all dolled up, posed for a few pics (few being the operative word...sigh) and set out. From the minute we stepped into the party, it felt like things had been transformed as the guys mixed through the house in their tuxedos and girls clacked around in their highest heels. I can safely say that I haven't seen that many feathers, headbands and fringe since my middle school dance recital, and it was completely worth it. More than anything, it's nice to know that one of the most self-involved demographics can successfully get together and support something that is bigger than ourselves.

As promised, a dimly-lit iPhone pic :)


And because it's funny, I thought I would give you a glimpse into our 20s-style late night detour. Again, just like the real Great Depression. Plus, there has to be an upside to eating french fries with gloves on...

And just because I'm proud of it. My sweet friend Sidney came over on Sunday night to round out the weekend with a little crafting. There is nothing I love more than the creativity muscle and she is actually the talent that helps me implement my over-zealous ideas. I bribed her with a grilled cheese and hot chocolate and in return, she created the stencil that gave me canvas magic...

Crate & Barrel, you can go ahead and eat your heart out.