Ryan and Rachell

My mother, with the help of a few friends, threw an unbelievable shower for Rachell and me last weekend. Mom sought to introduce Rachell to the years of my life before we met and filled our house with wonderful friends and family I’ve known for ages.

The guest list had been kept somewhat private so I didn’t even know who was going to join us. I loved opening the door to greet so many faces I hadn’t seen in a while.

Many, many thanks to those that helped make this evening such a blessing for Rachell and me. To Mom, Jill, Tom, Darryl, Sean, and Uncle Ken for the food. To Jill for the beautiful invitations. And to the many guests that brought so many smiles to our faces.

It was a perfect, California summer day and we took full advantage by celebrating our engagement with family and friends. Ryan’s Mom, Patty, flew out from Illinois to help host a great, backyard party. My Mom, Flora, spent the past three weeks redecorating her home and cooking furiously in order to host our growing community. I loved watching Patty mingle and chat with everyone so easily! Julie Vanloan, my soon-to-be bridesmaid and dear friend from grad school decorated the backyard with lanterns and tea lights.

Everyone there and all the effort put into the day made us feel incredibly blessed; Ryan and I continue to be humbled at the community we share. We are hopeful for the ways they will challenge and love and support us as a couple - we’ve never wanted to approach marriage as a solo mission. Thank you to all the friends and family that came out for wine and good food, and especially, to share in our excitement.

We are counting down the days…

Much love to my brother and his beautiful fiance, Michelle, in their recent engagement. After 3 years of mostly long distance, the two love birds are finally going to tie the knot! Sean proposed in style over champagne on the coast of California near the dunes at Morrow Bay. And it looks like he took notes… she was most definitely surprised.