The Wells/Quiroz Wedding & San Antonio vacation

This post is long overdue! 

Two weeks ago, I attended my second wedding of the year (2nd wedding ever, actually). The mr's childhood friend, Ian, and his beautiful fiance/wife, Jeannie had their wedding in San Antonio, Tx. Since the mr's brother was the best man, the whole Litzler family showed up.

Friday

The mr's parents picked us up on the way to SA on Friday. After we checked-in to the Menger Hotel, John and Stef attended the rehearsal dinner, and Phil, his parents and I spent the evening walking around downtown on the Riverwalk. We had apps and dinner at Casa Rio, where our table was right next to the river and got a beautiful view of the downtown area.

Dinner was super filling, but we thought it'd be a good idea to have coffee and dessert. We were all in the mood for tres leches so we made our way to Rio Rio. 

We got our coffee, but it took 30 minutes to get our cake. Management apologized for the wait and ended up giving us four pieces of tres leches for free. Needless to say, we felt like gluttons by the end of the night. It didn't keep us from playing a round of Ticket to Ride in the hotel common area.

Saturday

Since the wedding wasn't until saturday evening, we were able to fit in a visit to the zoo saturday morning! John, Stef, Janie, James, the mr and I sandwiched ourselves into the car and got there shortly after the gates opened. The weather was lovely and there weren't a ton of people. My favorite animals were the okapi and the fossa (Google them because they are both adorable ^_^); I also enjoyed the komodo dragon and the condors. Oh how I love animals!

We left the zoo around noon and filled our tummies with giant burgers from Fuddruckers. Luckily, they do serve veggie burgers, and I got my grub on. 

We still had a few hours to kill after lunch. I spent that time wisely, catching up on sleep. It was a bit difficult to fall asleep from all the excitement of the morning and the excitement yet to come. I got up with more than enough time to get ready. I'm pretty sure I was equally as excited about the wedding as I was about wearing my Michael Kors dress.

The wedding took place in the Menger hotel lobby. It was a beautiful place! Unfortunately, there wasn't a ton of room for seating. Most people stood behind the chairs. We had the awesome idea of watching from the second floor balcony. It was a perfect view.

Yes, I did cry, and I don't know why my mr was so surprised about it, either. It was a beautiful ceremony. They were married by Ian's first pastor, and used Ecc 4:12, "And though a man might prevail against one who is alone, two will withstand him--a threefold cord is not quickly broken," to show the importance of God in their marriage. Loved it.

There was some time between the ceremony and the reception. Ian and Jeannie were busy taking photos with the wedding party. Everyone else snacked on yummy cheese and crackers. I got to meet a bunch of the mr's family friends. All lovely people. It makes me happy knowing he comes from such a loving and Godly background. 

Side note, we were one of the few couples there that were not married. I think I was one of three women that stood up to catch the bouquet--which would've been mine had the brides 14-year-old sister not jumped in front of me. 

The reception was lovely. I'm a sucker for the first dance. Definitely cried again. It's always cute seeing the mother/son dance too. I think it shows what kind of husband the man will be. There was a lot of dancing that took place. Still never got the opportunity to dance with the mr. He waited patiently for a slow song to come on, but it never happened. I did dance with the groom though, during the dollar dance. 

Ian and Jeannie are such a cute couple. I'd met both of them during Phil's brother's wedding, and they both treated me like I'd known them all my life. Beautiful people like that deserve a beautiful life together. I wish them the best for their future.

Sunday

We were pretty worn out from the night's festivities. We didn't get to bed until about 2am. But we were all up and ready to check out by 9am. Our last stop of the trip was at Lulu's. 

Lulu's was featured on Man vs Food for their giant chicken fried steak and their 3lb cinnamon roll (the reason for our visit). This adventure was a topic of conversation all weekend. The six of us were going to attempt to eat the whole thing. We all went in with gusto, each thinking we could actually complete the mission. 

I impressed the mr's family with the amount of food I can eat, and they were glad to have me on their team, but by the time we were serving our third helping, we all knew we were sadly defeated. Our eyes were definitely bigger than our stomaches. 

Love and light.

Adrienne

September is here! Project 334

September is in full swing, and I'm loving every minute of it!

Well, maybe not so much on the 1st. It was a rough night at work, but nothing a glass of wine couldn't fix. The thought of it kind of got me through the day.

Friday was pay day! Did a little shopping. Found an amazing sale on shoes at Dillards while on break. I bought my first pair of Sperrys at an unbeatable price. I la la love bargain shopping.

Saturday the 3rd I had a tasty dinner with the mr and our friend. We went to our favorite place (Cheddars), had super tasty drinks and even tastier queso. Mmmmm!

Sunday was wonderfully relaxing. I spent it with my beautiful friend, Jesse. She needed a day to unwind so we hit the gym for a 30 minute run, lounged by the pool and rested in the steam room. As we were getting ready, I noticed how light complected Jesse is compared to me. Oh, my fair skinned beauty.

Monday the 5th was the "coldest" day of the summer. I opened the front door to an amazing 75 degree breeze and thought "yikes! It's chilly." So sad that I've been accustomed to think 75 is cold. Oh how I enjoyed the day though!

I came home from work on Tuesday to find the mr had made a new purchase. This is the reason I have bad dreams...but I watched contently as he played with his buddy--got a little motion sick after two hours, but it was better than football...

The mr's brother and sister-in-law came to town on Wednesday. So, after sleeping in and brunch, we spent most of the afternoon deep cleaning the apartment. It'd been awhile since our last thorough scrubbing. There's truly nothing like the feeling of relaxing in a clean home.

I'm happy! I really hope ya'll are having a wonder September too and keeping cool wherever you are.

Love and light.
Adrienne

He-Men: Real-life good guys: The Go-getter

World, I'm excited to introduce to you, my good friend, Gabe Morrison. I met Gabe my sophomore year in college. He was a new bartender at the restaurant I worked at, and we found out we had TONS in common. We were inseparable--at least until I found a boyfriend and he found his dream girl. He taught me so much about love, friendship, and life in general. He's a good guy who accomplishes everything he sets his mind to.


1. What is your story--a brief background of yourself?

I was born and raised in the NM desert. My childhood was spent on a bike, chasing a soccer ball, or destroying tiny worlds with my pal, GI Joe. I ate dog food for a while cause i thought nothin could be cooler than being a dog until I discovered pizza. I had a great family of six that taught me how to laugh and be patient. If my background was trimmed to a tweet or chirp, here is what it would look like: love, cello, sweat, camping, guitar, dogs, run, tears, green chili, God, baseball, king, sing, O.B. (office bear), surgery, dust, 14, theater, Amanda, laugh, Graceland, vans, mountains, team, Michael, lessons, forts, stars, peace, balance. 

2. What/who motivates you daily?

The idea of "deliberate creation" is my motivation. I believe we can create a reality of abundance and well being. Too many days have passed that I am not actively creating the life I know is possible. I realized people are like a dry good with an smeared expiration date. I better enjoy this can of beans while I have it. My brother, Michael, was one damn good can of beans and showed me how important this life is. Also, there are too many wonderful things this world has to offer that I have not yet experienced. I am always deliberately expanding to the next best version of myself. 

3. What is your favorite childhood memory?

When I was young, for one of my birthdays, my parents brought in a huge dump-truck full of dirt and dumped it in our backyard! It was probably for my Dad's gardening, but for a few days, it was my dirt kingdom and I was wearing the mud crown! I climbed, dug, and rolled around with my toy trucks and it was great!

4. What is your biggest accomplishment?

After four knee surgeries, hobbling on crutches totaling over a year, and being told I'd never run or play soccer again... I am just as fast as ever. Well, I havent timed myself, but you get the point. I am very proud of myself for staying strong and positive through those years and am now more grateful for every stride.    

5. If you could be anyone for a day, who would you be?

If I could be anyone for a day, I'd be Paul McCartney, Paul Simon, or Freddie Mercury. AHHHHHHH! I would sing all 24 hours! Please... can this happen? Is there a person swap pill vitamin? I'll swallow it without water... RIGHT NOW! ummm- nothings happening, is this some kind of joke? I'll settle for stealing their voice like in Little Mermaid. Ursula? Let me guess... she's made up too?!?!?

6. When was the last time you cried?

Last week I probably cried. Not like streaming down my face, but a little well-up, sure. I cry when I am listening to some awesome songs (recently Adele), watching a play or movie, thinking of my brother while I work out, or from laughing too hard (weekly in my improv groups). Real men can shed some tears!

7. Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

In ten years, I'll be married to my lovely girlfriend, Zen. We will probably have some kids. We will own a beautiful house with my own studio space and pool with a garden and some chickens. I'll be making plenty of money with acting/improv/voice over. I will be onto my second successful invention. I'll be filming some fun big projects with my friends. Working out, swimming, running. Maybe triathlons? More hiking and camping! More hammock time! I will be very happy and sharing my gifts and joy with others around me. I will be helping my community. I plan on having Paul Simon's singing voice! My relationships will be abundant and fulfilling. Oh man, that sounds awesome! 

8. What makes you unique? 

I am a person with an endless amount of passions! My interests seem never ending. Some of these would include singing, cello, guitar, cooking, hiking, acting, swimming, running, camping, improv, and hammocking on the beach. There is always something I am diving into. I consider myself extremely loving, joyful, and enthusiastic. I have pretty good advice for friends. I'm sort of known for my great hugs. "Deliberate Creation" is a pretty unique philosophy. I have a "heart statement" I'd like to share that I used to say hundreds of times a day. I highly recommend everyone make one up for themselves. Here is one that has served me well:

My name is Gabe. I am loving, joyful, smart, healthy and happy. I am sharing my light with the world. 

Yikes! August is gone. Project 334

I know, we're already a week into September and I'm just now finishing up August. I'm way behind; Sorry! But here's a lovely wrap up of my August.

Monday the 22nd was a lovely day. After work, I typically head home to destress, but it was a beautiful day out and had to head to the gym for a quick workout and to lay out by the pool. It was an awesome way to end my monday.

After work on the 23rd, I was craving some tasty food. I made brown rice with bell peppers and meatless beef tips for dinner. It was accompanied with a lovely glass of red wine. Mmm!

Yay for days off! On Wednesday the 24th, the mr and I filled our cupboards with tasty food. Every time we stock up, I try to make a delicious dish. I chose to make "sweet plantains." I forgot how giant plantains are! The dish was a success.

Are you aware at how horribly hot it's been in Austin? For the past 80+ days, the highs have been anywhere from 100 to 112 degrees. Needless to say, it sucks to be outside. Before work Reni begged me to go out--instantly she regretted it. Madi and I watched as she meowed to come back in.

Friday the 26th, I ate veggie stew for lunch. I made the stew Thursday after work. Let it cook over night. It was perfect by the time I had to go to work. Crock pot foods are easy and delish.

Saturday morning I'd woken up a little late and didn't have time to get a lunch made. I threw a bell pepper, avocado and hummus into my lunch box. Turned out to be a rather filling and flavorful meal.

I love Sundays! I had the day off--slept in, gym, and dinner. I held a small dinner party for the mr and his friends. The mr's friends were moving from being 3 minutes away from us to being 25-30 minutes away. I went all out with a 3 course meal. Made bacon wrapped jalapenos, tofu and spinach stuffed shells, and banana pudding. All made from scratch.

After work on Monday the 29th I made a stop at Central Market for all the goodies they had to offer for Hatch Green Chili Fest. I went all out. Along with green chili, I also got tortillas, jack cheese, scones, pesto and apple pie--all with yummy green chili in it.

Tuesday the 30th I worked 7am-5pm. Long day! As soon as I got home, all I wanted to do was take my contacts out and veg. So I did. The mr made me dinner and got me a glass of wine while I relaxed on the couch. Good ending to the day.

Wednesday the 31st was my day off. You know the routine: sleeping in, gym, food (sgf). Wednesdays had become a routine to get together with my friend Chris and do a little venting about work. We went to happy hour at Serranos where they have the best hh: $1.50 apps and $2.50 margaritas. Yes please!


So there you have it folks! I had a wonderful August and can't wait to see what September brings. I have my second wedding to attend(!), a mini vacation and inventory. Pictures soon to come.

Love and light.
Adrienne

He-Men: Real-life good guys: The Seeker

World, meet my lovely friend Oscar Gonzalez. I met him a little over three years ago as a new resident of my apartment complex. Once a month, when I'd drop off rent, we'd sit and chat about everything and anything. Out of that,  a friendship bloomed. I was intrigued by him--he was constantly trying to better himself; always going and doing. He took a year off to find himself--pushed himself to find his limits then pushed himself even farther. He's a good guy and will stop at nothing to find what he's looking for.


1. What is your story--a brief background of yourself?

I was born in Abilene, Tx. When I was 1, I was sent to Mexico to live with my grandparents till I was 8 years old. I was then brought to Dallas, Tx, where I lived my life with my mother and two older sisters. I didn't know my real dad till I was about 11 years old. I grew up in the church all my life and had lots of Christian mentors. I always wanted to be liked. I’m also tall dark and really cute LOL.

2. What/who motivates you daily?

God is my number one strength. Also, my sisters and my great and wonderful mother. Umm...working out too, it's funny that the littlest things can motivate me. 

3. What is your favorite childhood memory?

Mexico! Growing up there, I had my favorite memories as a young kid. Also, learning to make friends--I was a shy little boy. Don't tell anyone, but I prayed one day while I was outside and ask God to send me some friends..lol--I was new to the USA.

4. What is your biggest accomplishment?

I don't know. There are a lot of things that I find accomplished in my life: finishing high school, learning how to be on my own two feet without help, being a fighter no matter what, being great at my job, finding myself in SC, no babies yet, no jail time, not being dead…the list goes on. 

5. If you could be anyone for a day, who would you be?

El Che before Cuba. I'll get back to you on this. 

6. When was the last time you cried?

Last month. I broke down in front of Jeremy (my roommate/best friend). I’m a little hurt about my ex girlfriend, but I’m better no . I have my moments, but I get up again and fight. 

7. Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

With a college degree, a wife and two kids. I see myself working with a church and really just trying to be a good husband and father.

8. What makes you unique?

I can’t explain it, but I can sense what the other person is feeling, I can identify well with others. I truly and honestly wear my heart on my sleeve. I’ve been told I motivate people. What do you think? 

Project 334: August week 3

Where did August go!? It's almost time to wrap it up. Here's a look at my week last week.

I had a super fun evening on monday the 15th. My flight attendant friend, Sean, flew to Austin for the night and we met up with his friend Kristin at Trudy's for dinner and drinks. We had a lovely night out on the town. Love friend time!

I had an eye appointment on Tuesday after work. I hadn't checked my eyes in forever! The appointment was awesome. There was even a massage chair while I waited for my eyes to dilate.

Wednesday the 17th rocked! I met up with my beautiful friend Jesse at Ikea and had a tasty lunch with her. She left for work and I decided to peruse the Round Rock outlet mall with no intention of buying anything. Ended up buying my first designer dress from Michael Kors. It's beautiful!

Thursday after work, I stopped by HEB for bread and milk, and was reminded that it's Hatch green chile time!! It's a little part of home that I get to indulge in each year. Oh so tasty.

The day I had my eye exam, I ordered glasses online for free (at coastalcontacts.com)! I got them on Friday the 19th. They're so cute! Sadly, my nose is a little too small to hold them up, so I kind of look like a nerd pushing my spectacles up. Worth it.

Saturday the 20th was a crazy day! It was tax-free weekend, so business was crazy. To unwind, I indulged in a super scrumptious veggie burger from Zingers. Lunch got me through the day.

Sunday was date day. The mr and I shared a lovely day together. We made breakfast together and lounged. He took me to dinner at Cheddars. I filled up on veggie and it was yummy. To cap off the day we watched Planet of the Apes. It was scary! It could happen...

I had a fantastic week! It couldn't have been better. Hope you had an awesome week too!

Love and light.
Adrienne

7 Things

I've seen a couple blogs with this fun post so I thought I'd join in on the craze. Here's some interesting things about me.

7  Places I Would Like to Visit:

* Sydney, Australia

* Seattle, Washington 

* Costa Rica, Mexico

* Juno, Alaska

* Delhi, India (or Mumbai)

* Athens, Greece

* Anywhere in Italy

7 Things I Would Like to Make:

* People happy

* A well read blog 

* A beautifully decorated home

* Pretty cross stitch pieces

* Lots of good friends

* A Good living

* Maybe a baby one day...

7 People I'd Like to Meet (Dead or Alive):

* Ke$ha (she's so crazy!)

* Ewan McGregor (he's so handsome) 

* Drew Barrymore

* Rachel Zoe

* Princess Diana 

* Zach Braff

* And one day: Jesus

7 Things I Would Like to Own:

* A beautiful home

* A large Louis Vuitton bag 

* A closet full of beautiful clothing

* A Treehouse

* Anything I wanted from Ikea

* A ceiling to floor wall filled with books of my choice

* An all white cat to complete my cat color spectrum

7 Things That Annoy Me:

* Mean, negative people

* Repeating myself 

* Bad drivers and driving downtown

* Being hungry with no food around

* When my employees don’t realize work is a JOB

* People who cuss

* When my cats wake me up in the middle of the night 

7 Films I Love:

* Garden State

* Moulin Rouge 

* Big Fish

* Harry Potter--all of them

* Wall-E

* Fantastic Mr. Fox

* Going the Distance

7 Funny Words:

* Dander

* Poppycock 

* Rendezvous

* Hoitee-toitee 

* Bamboozle 

* Conundrum 

* Duty

Do you have any fun "7 Things"? What's something that annoys you? I want to know!

Love and light.

Adrienne