Holy Moly

...just now realizing the pun. Whoops! Such is my life. And such is my state of mind. How is it already mid-February!? Yeep! And how have I neglected my blog this long? Double yeep.

I guess this is what happens when work, wedding planning, and taking on too many volunteer responsibilities collide at once. This can also just be summed up as "the story of Beth's life." I am notorious for taking on everything at once because of what I've recently learned is dubbed FOMO. The fear of missing out. That's why I run myself ragged: I want to do all the things! It's sometimes hard to balance what you want to do and what you can physically, mentally, and emotionally manage. Ok, it's often times hard to do that balancing act... I'm working on it :)

This past weekend was a full one, but felt like a form of relaxation in my skewed Beth way. The highlight - I am officially a fairy godmother!

Little Jamison Robert is officially a baptized boy and I was lucky enough to be asked to be his godmother. I am so blessed to not only be this little one's aunt, but now get to help show him the importance of spirituality and community. Faith is an important part of my life and it is such an honor to be able to share that in a special, more meaningful way with my nephew.

A few relatives stopped by after the baptism to celebrate over sandwiches and pasta salad. Surrounded by family with warm weather and cold beer, the day was pretty idealistic. And Jamison was as adorable as ever after making a splashing entrance into the Catholic community (eh? eh? ya that terrible pun was, unfortunately, intended).

Saturday was followed by an equally enjoyable Valentine's Day, surrounded once more by people I love. It began with a traditional date with my dear Emily. Our yearly V-day festivities began a few years back with a Starbucks and a pair of socks.

It's become a staple I have come to really love. This year's was particularly good starting with a very romantic breakfast cooked by yours truly. Vegan pancakes were on the menu - so easy and so delicious.

Just throw together a banana (mashed, two eggs, 1/8 tsp baking soda, and a dash of cinnamon. Coat a pan and cook each side for a couple minutes and top with nuts, fruit, choco chips, the works. Easy and delicious (Note: makes about two servings though can easily be enjoyed by just one).

The pancakes were perfect fuel for one of our favorite shared activities - hiking. We hit the Claremont Hills Wilderness Park and, as expected, it was crowded as hell. By the grace of God (and Emily cleverly remembering to resight "Holy Mary, full of grace, please save us a parking space... ") we somehow managed to drive right up to a space where a car was backing out. Allelu-- whoops it's Lent. Thank God.

The weather was again a sun-shiney 85 and after getting our fair share of Vitamin D, and a good kick in the ass by that hilly trail, we dropped by Trader Joe's to give Matt a hug (and steal his debit card - thanks Matt) and enjoy an ice cold brew (coffee that is) at The Spot Cafe. Perfect.

After a heart healthy morning, I returned home in time to see Matt coming in the back door with a bundle of roses. The flower thing works every time. Every. damn. time. I'm in love.

After a power nap for him, and a few pages for me (I can't put down The Silkworm... ) we walked hand-in-hand to Cocoa Bakery down the road for a cake testing. Scheduling a cake testing for Valentine's Day was an excellent idea. Wedding planning can be very stressful and I'll admit I've already had more wedding nightmares than I am proud of, but I've enjoyed the quality time Matt and I are making of the experience. We've been doing it together, and having "mini dates" out of the venue search and food tastings. It's been really nice.

We aren't entirely sure what we are doing for dessert yet - soft serve machines have definitely been a part of the conversation - but if we do, it'll be hard to beat Cocoa Bakery. It's a local mom and pop and the owner is incredibly genuine. Her cakes are delicious, flavorful, and the perfect balance of sweet. Some bakery cakes can be tickle-the-roof-of-your-mouth cloyingly sweet. Not Grace's dessert. It's rich in flavor, but not overpowering. I left the store having shared two rather large slices of cake and felt just fine! And even had the room for a few macaroons ;) Also, she sells pork buns. I couldn't leave without ordering one I was so excited! They did not disappoint. I found my local fix for Chinese BBQ.

After enjoying our treats in the neighborhood park, Matt and I meandered about Claremont enjoying the sunshine and the good company. After mass with my parents, we went over to the house to enjoy one of the most delicious ribeye steaks I have ever had. And that's saying something (I am not a steak eater and swore off read meat altogether for many years out of fear of Mad Cow. I know, I know, it's another totally logical Bethism). The meal was delicious, the company even better, and it was all followed by the spring premiere of The Walking Dead. Can you think of a better end to Valentine's Day? I think not.

Now that I've convinced you I had a relaxing weekend, I will try and convince you once more that I won't be leaving you hanging for another month. This gal is going to write! There is so much to write about with the wedding and all other Beth shenanigans, so get ready to read! Til next time.