We did it!!!

So, I used to be a "runner" (emphasis on the quotation marks.) Throughout all of the training and long runs over the last several months I never really felt like a true runner. I was just trying, just one of those people who hoped to be a real runner someday. Well, guess what, now I AM a runner. No quotation marks. 

Yesterday, I finished my first half marathon-along with my hubs (whose 1st time it was as well) and my parents (both seasoned marathon veterans.) It was one of the most rewarding moments of my life. To see everyone there together, all for a beautiful cause, everyone cheering each other on, smiling and laughing-it was a day I will never forget. Breast cancer is a horrible disease, and no one deserves to go through it. I have so much respect and love for all of the survivors (one in particular-KJ!) and those who have battled bravely. The thing that got me through the race was thinking of these amazing women. Thank you everyone for your support and love throughout this journey. I couldn't have done it without you!

So, here's what I learned through the training and half marathon experience:
1. If you really commit, and pray, you can do ANYTHING.
2. It is 50% physical and 50% mental.
3. I am stronger than I think I am.
4. Anyone can be an athlete.
5. My husband and parents are the most amazing people in the world (well, I already knew that.) 

Yes, I am still tired. And really sore. But I can't wait for my next run.

XO
-L 

Dear Husband...

 

Dear Husband...

Six months ago today, I became your wife. And each day my love and respect for you grows.
These are the vows we spoke then, and they are more true today than ever...

I, Lauren, ask you Geoff, to be my husband

To live together and always laugh together;

To always seek out the best in you;

To support you if bad times come our way

To respect you when we disagree;

And to always remember, how grateful I am to have you as my “true companion”

As long as we both shall live.

I love you with all my heart.

XO
-Wife 

P.S. I can't wait to cross the finish line with you at our half marathon this weekend!

Style File: Posing, Puppy & Poop

Navy Shirtdress: LOFT  |  Braided Belt: Banana  |  Wood Sole Platforms: Lulu's
Neurotic Westie: Westie Rescue of North Texas 
(If you live in DFW & you are thinking about a shelter dog, call them!
Westies are the bestie! Even when they poop on you...) 

One of these things is not like the other...
Um, yeah. Poop. Remember when husband was requesting more pics of Calvin be included on the blog? Its not a dog blog I said. Well, since he is now the man behind the camera, I guess he gets a say...right? But look at these pictures. This is not a dog that wants to be held. Or wants his picture taken. And to prove it he pooped on me during the last photo. Yeah...we didn't post that one. Good times.

At least nothing got on the best dress ever. Seriously. Go buy this NOW. They are just showing red online right now, but I've seen lots of navy in stores.  It is the perfect shirtdress-perfect length, lovely color, nice thick fabric. Loft totally nailed this one. I'm going to live in it all summer. And speaking of LOFT, I am seriously loving their stuff lately-lots of cute work staples and fun summer tops. Plus, it seems like they are always having a sale. LIKE NOW! Extra 50% off all sale!

More on the new fab shoes later...

XO
-L 

For Japan with Love

I'm sure all of you are well aware of the disaster happening in Japan. Every morning I sit in bed and watch the news, horrified at the devastation and so very grateful that my loved ones are safe, and feeling so blessed to be ok. I can't help but thinking that those affected are families just like mine, with children, jobs, and friends. They are no different than I am, and yet they are facing something I could never dream of. My heart and prayers truly go out to all those affected. And of course everyone should do all we can to help. Whatever you are able to give- prayers, donations, both...I know it will make an impact. You can donate to The Red Cross here, or join in the effort with the For Japan with Love project. As an additional show of support, I will be taking part in their Bloggers Day of Silence tomorrow, March 18th. If you are a blogger as well and would like to participate you can find out more info here. God Bless you and yours.

XO
-L 

Style File: Its getting a little Weird

Long Sleeve T: Gap  |  Vest: Old Navy  |  Belt: Anthropologie  |  Pants: Express Editor |  Hoops: Stella & Dot
 Wedges: Cynthia Vincent for Target  |  Necklace: Anthro (gift from bestie Susie)
  Husband: Cutie-Patootie Store

I mean the photos are getting weird. Not me. I'm already weird.

Perhaps I should explain...
My super awesome coworker at my old job, Natalie (who happens to be a photographer) used to take all my outfit photos, but now that I have a new job, I have conned husband into taking them when I get home at night. Needless to say his tolerance for fancy photo shoots with lots of poses is lacking. So, the Style File photo posts will most likely be short and sweet from here on out. You guys are probably tired of endless photos of me anyway. And they will most likely include a few ridiculous photos that husband thinks are awesome (see last photo). He took a photo of a weed in our backyard that he thought was good, but I refused to post it. Its a WEED, I said.
I have standards you know.

Maybe I'll get a tripod and a remote...*

XO
-L

*Kidding, Husband. You are a good sport. MWAH!