Just When I Didn't Think It Could Get Any Better......

Last weekend proved to be busy as ever in preparation for the "big gig". My Mom came into town again to help organize and spoil me along the way, too! We had such a great visit and though I *promised* not to "run her as hard" as I typically have in past visits, I found that I was simply exhausted at the end of each day. We had LOTS on the agenda. First and foremost, her MOB (Mother of the Bride) dress had arrived after much, much, much involvement with the designer, a boutique in Connecticut and a very kind woman we have never met. She tried it on and it was PERFECT. Beautiful. Great. Now, on to more important things, like shopping. We covered Atlanta like a cheap suit on her first day. After all, the next day we had my bridal shower to attend! Mom decided that we needed to do a dry run of our make up for the wedding day, so we were up bright and early to go see if Kiev at Carter Barnes could work a little magic. Lo and Behold - she even gave me false eyelashes as I discovered that along with not having inherited my mother's alabaster skin, dark hair or strong nails, I also did not get her insanely long eyelashes.

Mom and I before the magic is worked

After !

We then stopped for a few errands before heading to my dear friend Laura's home where she was hosting my bridal shower. It was an amazing afternoon and I was blown away by how much work Laura put into the day. Not only did she open her home to my friends and family, she cooked all the food for an incredible luncheon, and decorated with attention paid to every detail! She had decided on an airplane theme and had all kinds of cute airplanes as decoration all around, which she had hand painted in our wedding colors - lapis and apple - or, in Tad speak "purple and red". She ordered ribbon with our names on it and had an airplane shaped cake that was titled "TaJan Air". The "N Number" was N10/24 - our wedding date! She also had favors for everyone - a cookbook which she had compiled of everyone's favorite recipes, which is something I know I will get great use of and I hope everyone else will, too.

Janin and Laura, the host who wears Lapis!

TAJAN AIR! Edible Airline!

I was so fortunate that so many people were able to come to my shower. As I already mentioned, my Mom came into town as did Tad's Mother, Judy. Tad's sister, Lane (who is a brides maid) and her daughter, Emma (also a bridesmaid) came in from Knoxville. Emma is just the sweetest girl and was kind enough to sit with me and keep notes on all the gifts. I would have been lost without her keeping tabs! She is invaluable and I look forward to being her aunt.

It was a wonderful visit with Mom, including the moment that I had forgotten to pick up my dry cleaning. Small problem. Fortunately, Macy's had navy pants that were a suitable substitute and I had a couple of spare shirts in my closet. I may end up eating these words, but I am hoping that after the "big gig" I will be back to my normal, organized Type A self who has everything together long before I have to be anywhere.

Emma and I

I think it is safe to say that a good time was had by all. I am forever grateful to Laura for not making anyone play shower games and for all the work that she put into the shower. I sure am glad that this only happens once because nothing could top all that I have been experienced to date.