Picnic Perfect

With the onslaught of warm weather, I can’t shake the idea of getting outside for the first picnic of the season.

These past engagement photos of Matt and Claire are the perfect inspiration for a picnic spread. I envision something very similar in my near future. You just can’t go wrong with salami, creamy cheese, and sweet fruit. And with the love of your life by your side with a glass of red vino – you have, what I would say, is picnic perfection.

Anyone else out there have a craving for a picnic?

Guy and a girl enjoying a picnic at Wilder Ranch, Santa Cruz, CAPouring the wine into a wine glassGuy and girl holding wine glasses and getting ready to kissCouple hiding behind the wide brimmed straw hat (probably making out) with thumbs upCouple drinking wine and eating together on a picnic blanket in Santa Cruz, CA Wilder Ranch

Cheer, Cheer

My feet sat comfortably on the dash board as the warm sun hit my white winter skin. The breeze was blowing through the window causing my hair to fly back and forth across my face as I leaned back in my chair trying to shield my eyes. I left my sunglasses at home and was paying the price for my mistake.

As I people-watched through squinting eyes, I saw a girl riding her bike in an open parking lot. As we drove closer, I realized she wasn’t a girl, but a young woman, and her boyfriend or husband was filming her. By the way she rode, I could tell she was likely riding a bike for the first time. He trailed closely behind her with his iPhone. I could hear him cheering her on behind the camera.

I wanted to turn back. To somehow capture this sweet moment. But sometimes pictures and videos fall short. And I didn’t want to interfere in any way, so I’m writing it down to remember how it made me feel. It made me smile with sentiments of simple joy. But as I pondered on the memory later, I found myself a little sad. When was the last time I cheered for Vitaliy in this way? I should be his biggest fan and loudest cheerleader. But often times I find myself more like a school principal.

I hope writing this down will help etch this in my memory and remind me to be a better wife. And if sharing it helps one person out there that’d be an added bonus. Happy Tuesday.

And here is a little peek at Saturday’s photo date.

Husband holding his wife in one hand and beach ball in another.

Color Me Happy

Don’t wait for the next holiday to romance her, or to affirm him. Every relationship needs a little spontaneity. And when it comes to gift giving, this couldn’t be truer. I don’t want to send you off empty handed. Check out our feature in the latest issue of Styled. You’ll find 10 ways to wow her with flowers and 10 ways to surprise him with love notes. This issue is filled with all kinds of inspiration. You’ll be glad you didn’t miss out. Enjoy!