This past weekend was literally consumed with preparations for my 30th birthday party bash, thrown with love by Allison and my parents. It was truly an amazing evening filled with laughter and love. While the decorations, food, and cocktails were all perfect, the evening would not have been complete without the fabulous company. I’ve always believed that friends are the only family you get to chose. While I (and Allison) was blessed with an amazing family, I’ve always felt that friendships were an extension of those family bonds. Therefore, who you chose should be taken seriously. I couldn’t help but look around the room at everyone who was there and feel complete, loved, and honored by their company. One friend flew in from out of town, some left their newborn bundles of joy at home with babysitters, and another was 9 months pregnant. I had friends from birth, elementary school, middle school, college, and graduate school. I guess what I am trying to say is that I have always viewed friendships as an integral part in my life. A facet that needed to be mended to and cultivated just like any other significant relationship my life. So, I take this opportunity to thank all of my friends, and family, and those who reached out to help make this birthday one of the best ever!

{Gorgeous centerpieces assembled by Allison and my Mom}

{Place settings with the fresh sent of rosemary}

{The makings of the refreshing spa water: Lemons, Strawberries, Mint, and Ice}

{Tiny details for the evening. Aren’t the drink sparklers so festive?!}

{This was just the appetizer portion of the evening!}

{The fun photo booth props to capture the silly moments! Loving this modern polaroid camera.}

{Lemon, Red Velvet, and Carrot Cake Bundtinis from Nothing Bundt Cake… need I say more?}

{There is nothing I love more than handwritten cards… I still have cards from my high  school days. Also loving this diptyque candle, which was a wonderful gift.}

{This fruit and veggie smoothie was so necessary after these past two weeks}

Ok, so it’s the new year, new resolutions… if your’s is fitness check out the Women’s Health Weekend Challenge

My first purchase of the new year? My favorite Power Y tank from lululemon… nothing better than new workout gear to re-enegerzie you! Check out some of these favorites here, here, and here

Did you see Allison’s stair master work-out the other day? If not check it out. I completed it yesterday, and added 40 weighted squats, 40 alternating lunges, and 40 weighted dead lifts. Then I finished it up with 20 burpees and 5 minutes of core. It’s time to shed those small Christmas indulgences.