Date Night: 15th Wedding Anniversary and a Sparkling Surprise!
Our 15th wedding anniversary started as a typical day around the house. A quick kiss for luck and we were off to work. Scott and I had celebrated our 15th a bit early with a swanky summer vacation to Riviera Maya, so we wanted to keep the actual day of our anniversary, September 10th, more low key.
15th Wedding Anniversary
Our 15th wedding anniversary started as a typical day around the house. A quick kiss for luck and we were off to work. Scott and I had celebrated our 15th a bit early with a swanky summer vacation to Riviera Maya, so we wanted to keep the actual day of our anniversary, September 10th, more low key.
Gifts were readied and wrapped....
we enjoyed a private toast...
and we were off to one of our favorite restaurants in town, Red Tavern, for dinner on the patio.
It was a warm evening and we had the patio all to ourselves.
We dined on a delicious meal, a special celebratory dessert,
and it was time to open gifts.
I created a book of our wedding photos for Scott.
We've had a book of proofs for 15 years but never a true wedding album.
Scott bought me a sparkling anniversary band. I knew that he had a ring in mind for me and he asked me to help pick it out.
I didn't expect that he would get down on one knee--for the first time--and propose another 15 years and a lifetime of marriage.
Be still my heart...
Every time I see the sparkle of these diamonds I am reminded of our commitment and the hard work it took to make it these 15 years. Believe me, those first few years--as a new step-family--we were not so sure we would be celebrating 15 years of marriage down the road.
Our day may have started like a typical day but it ended with a sweet celebration,
new memories and a surprise proposal.
In the end, our 15th wedding anniversary was not a typical day at all...
As those of us who are married know for sure--it's not always easy.
It is worth the effort and definitely worthy of celebration.
I'd do it all over again....
Our thanks to Rich (owner) and Deanna at Red Tavern for making our anniversary evening even more special.
Date Night: A Sunset Sail in a Tropical Paradise
For the final evening of our vacation in Riviera Maya, we chose a sunset sail at our resort, Zoetry Paraiso de la Bonita. The turquoise waters, gentle tropical breezes, friendly service, bubbly champagne and new friends made it the best way to usher in the evening.
For the final evening of our vacation in Riviera Maya, we chose a sunset sail at our resort, Zoetry Paraiso de la Bonita. The turquoise waters, gentle tropical breezes, friendly service, bubbly champagne and new friends made it the best way to usher in the evening.
I always love being on--or near--the water and this sailing adventure reminded me just how much I enjoy sailing. It had been years since I'd been out on a sailboat. I'm holding Scott's glass here so that he could take the photo. I promise--I wasn't drinking two glasses of champagne at once! ;)
My sailor, also enjoying his bubbly.
There were a few other couples on this sunset sail, like Jenny and Tyler--a fun couple from Virginia--celebrating their honeymoon.
I had to laugh when I realized how my Rachel Roy top caught wind in this sailing adventure. It definitely had a mind of its own. I've enjoyed wearing this halter top all season but perhaps it's a bit more stylish on dry land.
Cheers to our last night at Zoetry Paraiso de la Bonita--we can't wait to return!!
The Story of How We Met (+ a walk down memory lane in San Francisco)
The last thing I wanted to do that breezy fall day, back in 1997, was attend an early mental health conference in South San Francisco. I was going through a difficult time in life, a drawn out divorce, and I barely had the energy to make it to work as a school psychologist, much less pull off the professional thing at a conference an hour away. I remember getting stuck in traffic and feeling like a hot mess when I finally arrived at the San Francisco Airport Marriott Waterfront in South San Francisco. I thought I could finally relax, then I learned a colleague was intent on introducing me to the chairman of the conference before the session began. UGH!!!! I protested and started to walk away, until he caught my eye. His smile, and that twinkle in his eyes, were electric. I must have lit up, too, though it had been awhile since I had felt lit up in any way.
The last thing I wanted to do that breezy fall day, back in 1997, was attend an early mental health conference in South San Francisco. I was going through a difficult time in life, a drawn out divorce, and I barely had the energy to make it to work as a school psychologist, much less pull off the professional thing at a conference an hour away. I remember getting stuck in traffic and feeling like a hot mess when I finally arrived at the San Francisco Airport Marriott Waterfront in South San Francisco. I thought I could finally relax, then I learned a colleague was intent on introducing me to the chairman of the conference before the session began. UGH!!!! I protested and started to walk away, until he caught my eye. His smile, and that twinkle in his eyes, were electric. I must have lit up, too, though it had been awhile since I had felt lit up in any way.
That evening a group of us walked down the waterfront to dinner at the Elephant Bar. Halfway through my chopped salad, I spotted the chairman, his name was Scott. He made a beeline to our table, with that bright smile, and didn't break eye contact with me--not even once. He warmly greeted the entire group, some who he already knew from previous conferences, but he made me feel like I was the only one there. As the evening faded, the two of us ended up in the hotel lounge, talking late into the night. I remember it being the most authentic conversation I had ever had with a man. We shared some 'jagged edge' feelings of our individual lives but also hopes for satisfying relationships in the future. We had a connection, it was undeniable... and that's where it ended. We said goodbye and didn't speak again, for an entire year.
The following October, I again made my way to the conference. I assumed Scott would attend, but I was unsure if we would even recognize each other. Thinking I had been too open, maybe shared too much (I know, me?) or perhaps he had, too. I was feeling a little nervous, but also excited. As it turns out, he did remember me and I remembered him....that smile, that twinkle in his eye, captured me all over again.
This time, we stayed in touch and started seeing each other shortly after. In the end, we were both grateful that we didn't rush it, that we let time bring us back together when we were more ready for this kind of love.
My Editor, Scott, wanted to add his memory of that time in our lives:
From Scott: my recollections are very similar. I was running ragged with the pain of going through divorce and the sadness of the loss. I was also running high on the excitement of being in my element with the incredibly committed people who attended this conference in the name of making life better for kids. This would be a conference of 600 friends. One of these long-time friends and colleagues introduced me to a beautiful woman with... you guessed it... a radiant smile! I remember extended conversation in the pain zone, and a quick recognition of her heart, intellect, and ability to hear me and understand. She was going through it, too, and was one who felt deeply the pain and the desire to create a stronger, more intimate relationship in the future. But I was nowhere near ready to consider new relationships...
Like Heather, I didn't know if I would recognize her the following year, but there was that lovely blond with the crazy-bright smile. I yanked her on to the dance floor during the "hospitality" event, and the rest is... his-story and her-story.)
Heather: #lovethat
Flash forward to the year 2000, when Scott and I again stayed at the Marriott Waterfront, the night before our flight to Zihuatanejo, Mexico for our honeymoon.
The gracious staff sent the most delicious chocolate covered strawberries and a bottle of champagne to our room!
We visited this favorite spot again earlier this month, 15 years post honeymoon, as we started our 15th anniversary trip to Riviera Maya. Once again, the Marriott staff treated us like old friends. As we checked in to the modern, spacious suite (newly updated) we felt sentimental...returning to the "scene of the crime" we joked, but, more honestly, where our lives changed forever.
We visited the waterfront walkway, outdoor dining, lounge area and even the conference room where we first laid eyes on each other...This was a walk down memory lane for sure!
And yes, Marriott remembered...
We celebrated with bubbly and those amazing chocolate covered strawberries--
15 years later!!
And with that, a night down memory lane, we were off to catch a plane to Riviera Maya!
I often tell friends, who are feeling discouraged or lonely, you just never know who you might meet, and how your life may change, around that next corner--or at that conference. ;)
Cheers to the romance of travel!
Thank you to Marriott and Lenna in PR for the upgraded suite, prosecco and chocolate covered strawberries.
Marriott is clearly a brand with a heart!
Date Night at 7 Seas Los Cabos-Surf's Up!
Every now and then Scott and I stumble onto a surreal experience during our travels. This was one of those times. It was the final evening of our trip to Los Cabos, and our tradition is to do something celebratory on our last night. I tend to follow my gut instinct when making plans and when I learned of 7 Seas, with a description so intriguing, I just knew this was the place.
Date Night at 7 Seas Los Cabos-Surf's Up!
Every now and then Scott and I stumble onto a surreal experience during our travels. This was one of those times. It was the final evening of our trip to Los Cabos, and our tradition is to do something celebratory on our last night. I tend to follow my gut instinct when making plans and when I learned of 7 Seas, with a description so intriguing, I just knew this was the place.
Arriving at the Cabo Surf Hotel is a bit like a journey back in time.
It felt nostalgic---in a good way.
The hotel, restaurant and infinity-edge pool are beachside.
Cabo Surf Hotel
This is a obviously a surfer's paradise...(and the home of Mike Doyle's Surf School)
and the best place for apres-surf.
7 Seas Seafood Grille and Surf's up in Los Cabos
The 7 Seas Seafood Grille is located at the heart of the hotel, overlooking the beach.
The view from our table took our breath away...
My favorite traveling companion/husband/Scott was very pleased with my choice for dinner.
Scott selected the 'Surprise Me Chef' with a slice of tuna so thick it was reminiscent a steak.
I ordered the 'Lemon Caper Fish' which which light, fresh and flavorful.
Eduardo, Sylvia, Freddie and Ivan spoiled us with friendly, yet impeccable service, and the freshest of seafood delicacies.
It was also the quality of the light, the gentle waves lapping on the beach,
and watching the surfers, who seemed somehow from a different time.
#throwbackthursday
Stylemindchic Lifestyle and a glass of sauv blanc at 7 Seas Seafood Grille by the sea in Los Cabos
One of those surreal moments.......
captured on Instagram.
If you are in Los Cabos (San Jose del Cabo or Cabo San Lucas) I highly recommend dinner out at Seven Seas and a stay at the Cabo Surf Hotel. It's fun for families as well as a romantic dinner by the sea.
My Mother's Wedding Video (Happy First Anniversary Jeri & Hal!)
My radiant Mom, Jeri, on her wedding day, with my beautiful sister, Heidi, and me last September.
There is nothing that makes a daughter happier than knowing her mother is enjoying life and love to the fullest. My mom, Jeri, and my new Step-father, Hal, have enjoyed an uncommonly rich romance, a heartfelt and memorable wedding celebration, and a European honeymoon in the last two years. It's safe to say, this daughter is extremely happy for these two, especially as they celebrate their first wedding anniversary.
This is the wedding video....it will make you cry happy tears!
Video credit to Jensen Films
For a peek at the wedding last year in A love story and a wedding,
the lucky in love story of how these two met in Love is just mean to be, and wedding planning in
A Sparkling Day Sneaks Up on You.
Happy Anniversary Mom and Hal!
We are blessed by welcoming this warm, wise, loving man, Hal, and his family, into our family.
Your love story is truly an inspiration for ageless love.
Scott and I could not be happier for you both and we love you dearly.
Cheers!
xx,
We're savoring the golden days of summer at my here!
New arrivals from Spain and Portugal!
Breathless...Miscarriage and a Loss Remembered
It was just a flash, out of the corner of my eye,
as they walked passed the end of the aisle of the Target store yesterday.
A mother and daughter, arms casually entwined, sharing a laugh.
A beat and then a flood of recognition.....
I knew that mother ten years ago.
Breathless....a loss remembered
It was just a flash, out of the corner of my eye,
as they walked passed the end of the aisle of the Target store yesterday.
A mother and daughter, arms casually entwined, sharing a laugh.
A beat and then a flood of recognition.....
I knew that mother ten years ago.
A group of girlfriends, a shopping trip out of town,
and we were both 10 weeks pregnant.
We spent an hour trying on clothing for our expanding waistlines that day at the galleria.
It was my first pregnancy and her second.
Her marriage was shaky and she had mixed emotions.
I was 41, my husband's vasectomy reversal was successful,
and I was finally pregnant for the first time.
I was beyond thrilled!
For me,
deliriously happy.....
sparkling days.......
Breathless......
We agreed to meet up for lunch at Nordstrom on that shopping day.
Paper shopping bags were unwrapped on command and new fashions--for the new chapter of life--
were shared with happy and congratulatory girlfriends.
A quick trip to the restroom before the drive home.
Spotting.........
"It's normal right? "
"Don't worry....it happened to a friend and her baby was fine."
Worry......
Hope and pray......
a tiny tear shed in the dark,
on the drive back home.
"Drink all the water you are able."
A shadowy examination room and the
kind technician smooths cool gel on my belly.
Watching her smile,
for any flickering sign of concern.....
I was 10 1/2 weeks pregnant.
"No heartbeat........I'm so sorry."
I can't get my breath......
Breathless
Ten years later, seeing the lovely mother and her daughter, laughing together,
I'm sure she is certain this was her path.
I believe I heard that her marriage survived the rocky times.
I am reminded of the hopefulness, and joy, of that chapter of life.
I remember the life that was lost, the dreams that died,
and the different path my life has taken by not becoming the mother I always dreamed of being.
New dreams have been created out of necessity.
New paths have been carved to enrich life in different ways.
It's the only way....but there are moments when we remember.
In bed last night, he pulls me close.
I don't want him to feel my falling tears.....
but he does.
Somehow he just knows...... like he always does.
Breathless...
Birthday in Paradise at Zoetry in Dominican Republic!
I've always been secretly happy that my birthday is on July 15th and smack dab in the middle of summer. It means I've never had to go to school and usually not to work on my birthday.
This year the timing was perfect for my birthday as we are enjoying our last couple of days in the tropical paradise of Dominican Republic.
My favorite birthday companion #spoiled me a bit
With a significant number of difficulties marking the beginning of our trip this phase at Zoetry Agua has been completely sublime.
This little guy has kept us company during breakfast on our terrace.
Some spa time made the birthday girl very happy.
I'm not politically minded and I thought it was fun to see that Jon Stewart had 'favorited' one of my tweets.
Our dinner with some of our new fabulous friends from the pool. We laughed and bombed out at a merengue dance lesson together later.
Thanks for making my birthday perfect and hopefully we will all end up at Zoetry again someday!
I just wanted to say a quick thank you for so many lovely birthday wishes on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and text.
I feel truly blessed this year that my world has expanded in so many
incredible ways. The connections I've made with Stylemindchic Life mean the world to me.
Happy Birthday to my lovely mom today! Though we are separated by distance our birthdays always
stand side by side (she always tells me I was an early birthday present).
Looking forward to celebrating together.
Thanks for stopping by Stylemindchic Life!
Can't wait to catch up with everyone on our return.
xx,
Curated Collections at my Stylemindchic Boutique!
