Giving a Maid of Honor Speech

Public speaking is my worst nightmare. Worst. So giving a speech for my best friend gave me mixed emotions. If I had to choose between swimming with sharks... with no cage (I'm feeling wild) or getting up in front of 20 people and giving a speech. Bring on the sharks! Even reading the title for my blog post brings back all the butterflies in my stomach, and I kinda want to vomit. oh and I had to speak in front of 252 people.... I'm just glad I didn't barf on the mic or piss my dress.

Blogging has taught me a lot in the last few months, and what I've learned the most is people want honestly. So, let's get to it.

I hated the fact that being a "MOH" came with the duty of giving a speech. I was so excited I got to plan the Bachelorette party, but in the back of my mind I knew a speech was involved. I'm gonna let you in on a secret... let's just not go around telling everyone. Deal? ok good. In college I failed out of speech class (twice) because the idea of talking in front of people made me hide in my apartment or run to the nearest coffee show until it was time for the next class.... oh and it was an online class. I couldn't bare to one my laptop and simply speak in front of 7 or less people.

Let's get something straight first, I was and still am honored that my best friend, Victoria even thought about me being in her wedding, let alone trusting me to stand by her side and toast to her and all her friends and family. I couldn't be more thrilled and forever grateful for her.

The one thing I take from this crazy experience and really the only way I didn't die from a heart attack was because I was prepared. I made sure I wrote down my thoughts little by little for a few months and made sure I said what was truly on my heart.

There is no way I would have been able to go up and "just talk" about Vic. You should have seen the Best Man... it was godawful.

Anyways.

I first wanted to start out with a little humor. Who doesn't like a little ice breaker? I'm not saying start out with a knock knock joke or anything. I just simply introduced myself with a little extra laugh thrown in. Can you tell Vic was the only one laughing. ^^^^

Awkward

Yes I wrote my speech on my phone. And I typed it out and hid a copy under my plate. I made sure my phone was at 100% before hand, but just incase a back up is always good to have.

To be honest I felt more comfortable reading from my phone. It came across more natural than it would if I read it off an piece of paper. Just my opinion. After all I did write it on my phone, so it was genius in my mind. 

At the end of my speech I felt flawless. Honestly. Knowing how big of an accomplishment this was for myself and I knew it meant something to the bride was all worth it. I wouldn't have traded it for world. In her own little way, she knew I had this fear and helped me tell myself that I can do anything. 

Isn't my bestie the most beautiful bride?! 

If you live in the central Indiana are you NEED to contact Evangeline Renee! Like yesterday. She was wonderful to be around, you could tell she loved her job and her pictures just speak for themselves. 

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You Know You're a Dog Mom if.....

I feel like a lot of people I know are making the wonderful decision of getting a puppy. Like some, this took a lot of planning and decision making. I had to beg and beg for almost a year, until I got my Newman. I'm sure it didn't help that every puppy I saw I wanted to take home. But we finally found ours and made sure it was the right time in our lives. We just bought a house, so getting a dog next just made sense.

I grew up with dogs, but never had to raise one myself. To be honest the first couple of days were hell. He wouldn't stop whining and I felt like I was doing something wrong. After all, it's just a puppy, how hard could it be? Well,  I was certainly in for a treat. The second night after we brought him home I was in tears because I thought even a baby would have been easier at the moment. But I kept telling myself, we were all adjusting. Though a lot has gotten better, Newman still knows how to test my patience and make this momma bear not happy.

Newman has now become our little slice of heaven and sometimes I feel like we took on more than we can handle, but he makes life fun and unexpected. Here are just a few things I have learned from being a recent dog mom. 

1.You take millions of picture of them sleeping or just sitting still. No just me? I constantly catch myself having to clear more space in my phone by deleting random pictures of Newman... that all look the same. Please tell me I'm not the only one for this one. 

2.You have to train them to not sleep in your bed... and fail miserably. When we first became pup-parents we made a no dog in the bed rule. That quickly changed, because he was miserable sitting on the ground looking up at us with those big sad puppy dog eyes. But luckily it's turned into a weekend only thing. Newman is almost 50lbs and there just instead enough space for him anymore. 

3. You dress them up. Again, we made a rule before getting him that we weren't going to be those weird people that dress up there dog... Well, Dennis said nothing about not putting him in my clothes (jackets and hoodies) and of course I became hooked and now I feel like he needs his own closet. 

4.Snapchat just makes more sense now. Dog filter without a dog? Just doesn't feel right. Now, you and a friend plus your dog can all have puppy faces! It's just the best. 

5.You start to buy healthy food so you both can share..Sometimes I catching myself writing down fruit and veggies on the grocery list to give to the dog and not with the intention of eating them myself. I'm pretty sure he eats better than the humans in the house. (Insert head in palm)

6. You buy furniture for yourself, but they quickly claim it before you can... I went our and rewarded myself the other week and got a outdoor chase lounge. By the time I unfolded it, went inside to get a drink, came back out, Newman was already chilling like he's order it on Amazon and has been waiting for me to open the box... 

How do YOU know you're a dog Mom?

If you would like to see update pictures of Newman follow along on my Instagram page.

Exploring My Life and Growing in the Process

Exploring nature is something that I was recently introduced to. Growing up I was not into sports...nothing's really changed there. Besides that I'm currently on a co-ed softball team, (my poor team) just to stand there and look pretty, right? .... no really. I can't hit, can't catch, most certainly can't throw,  but I can run those bases when needed. So I might be good for something there, I guess.

Back in the day I wasn't all enveloped in summer activities, unless it included laying out in the backyard getting a tan. (You're allowed to hate the old me, I won't judge you) I was your typical girly girl growing up. LAME! I was very much into staying indoor and "not sweating."

Something changed in my life and I so happy it did. Dennis. Dennis grew up with a small family that has a heart for traveling. Father from the Netherlands, born in California and now living in Indianapolis. I grew up with a large family that has never moved out of a small town called Newburgh, Indiana. The farthest my family has ever traveled was to Golf Shores Alabama. It just amazes me that even in our upbringing we are complete opposites. In every way.

Dennis is extremely outgoing and knows everyone. We don't live in a huge town now, but at the grocery, softball game, or even the occasional local bar, he's always saying hello to a childhood friend. Me on the other hand, I get sever social anxiety. I can't be in crowds, hate talking in front of people, and can am really awkward meeting new people.

Sometime I sit and think about how on earth we were ever put together to be in a relationship.

By no means am I complaining or unhappy. In fact I adore how opposite we are. It makes life interesting... very interesting. When we are faced with a new journey or obstacle you can guarantee there will be some sort of disagreement. It might be weird, but we grow best this way. We challenge each other everyday with our different view points and ideas. But it WORKS.

I can't imagine having a partner that is a mirror of myself. D might not "get" me all the time, but he sure does push me to get out of my comfy zone and do something new.

These past 3 years have been wonderful.  Hiking and being in the woods was something I never did before D. Now hiking is something we are constantly doing and thriving to do. We have both discovered a place and a passion where we can grow together without having to communicate. Being in nature allows us to go new places and explore new things.

My Ultimate Olympic Wear

What better way to watch the Olympics, than in style! Target, I don't know how you do it, but you get my e.v.e.r.y time. Seriously. You need to stop! You know how you can ban yourself from going into a Casino? I've thought about doing that to myself with Target. . . It doesn't help that I have a Target card, or does it? I always end up buying more than I should because I know I'll save 5%. It's vicious. so vicious. Like ever visit to Target I go in for one thing and end up thinking I need the entire store in my shopping cart. Luckily this time, I didn't forget what I went for, but in return left with much much more. Including this new USA t-shirt. 

USA and beer. Not just any beer. American's Beer. Bud light.! I was once told Bud light is the McDonalds coffee version of beer. I might have to agree. This is a perfect example of what a typical Tuesday night in my house. no shame here. BUT now I look like I understand what I'm watching when Dennis turns the Olympics on. When it comes to sports, I'll take any excuse to buy new clothes and to support a team. 

This might be the softest shirt I've worn in a while. 45% polyester and 43% cotton. What does that mean to me? It's won't shrink in the dryer! It's extremely breathable and lightweight. My ideal shirt for the summer time. 

I am the only one that catches myself drooling over the USA mens swim team? I. mean. come. on! Michale Phelps and his fiance and baby stole the show the other night when he won. Which left me in tears after and I only caught the last 8 seconds. The three Blue Moons probably didn't help, but it was very touching to watch. 

Anyways 

This shirt rocks. Head on over to your local Target or go online, because after all you just need this shirt. You won't be disappointed. 

Promise. 

Find the USA t-shirt here

Weekend Getaway: Corey Lake, Michigan

I'm a little over due, but a few weekends ago, we all went to Lake Michigan! This has been a place where Dennis and I have gone for several years, with his family. It's a small quite lake, for this tiny family of ours which = perfection. This year we brought along our Newman! While my momma bear mode kicked in a few times, with Newman jumping in the water for the first time, and standing at the tip of the boat catching all the wind in his ears. Besides those moments of pure terror it was relaxing weekend with the family. 

Ok, everyone knows that I can be a bit of a control freak. This weekend was no exception. With taking on the new role of "doggy parent" I have been a worrying mess. . . 24/7 I have this new living creature that depends on me to keep him safe, healthy, and most importantly alive. ( I can't imagine having a child) He's full of energy and always on the go. I never want to loos this four legged turd, but I am doing my best to "loosen" the leash.

Walks are a must to get this little growing guys energy out, and Lake Michigan was the best spot to do so. The weather, the trails, everything was wonderful. Love my shirt? If you have a pup, this shirt is a MUST. Taylor over at the The Daily Tay  is the wonder genius that sells these shirts!You can order yours on her Etsy Page along with a few other most haves. I might have order the "Let's Day Drink" shirt too.
Shhhhh

^^^I think lily pads are my new favorite thing

Boat rides out on the lake to attempt to catch a few fish. . .  only caught 2.  Which lead to a 2 week sunburn on my legs that pealed for another 2 weeks... it was great.

I mean, look how crystal clear this water is? How is this not paradise.

Newman liked loved rolling around in the sand all day, and

Wherever we travel, we must find a hiking trail. . .  must.

This trail was a floating walkway on top of a small part of the lake. It weaved in and out though brush and plants. Something I've never experienced before. It was wobbly and uneven, but very adventurous and something we will make a tradition out of.

This place was heaven and the perfect getaway with our family just for the weekend.

At first we both weren't excited about driving in the back, but it was nice to caught up on some Zzz's 

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Decorating for a Bachelorette Party

Recently I was blessed with the title of Maid of Honor in my best friends wedding. With this being my first time (MOH virgin over here), I was beyond overwhelmed and way in over my head... but I like to think I pulled it off very well! But you be the judge and let me know. 

The destination was Louisville Kentucky #yuckyinkentucky. For us Indy chicks this was a fun way to mix things up. I stuck with the color scheme of the Brides wedding, gold and purple and added a few fun things along the way.

Everyone got their very own "Gio head" to take with the dinner and out on the town. This was a last minute add-on and it was the most talked about weeks after the bash. Some of the ladies kept theirs and brought them to the wedding. 

You can't have a party without party favors. Simple purple nail polish with tule fabric wrapped with gold ribbon. Such a simple DIY that anyone can do.... even if you're overwhelmed, have your bf give it a try.

^safe to say we had plenty of booze. 

^ sorry mom 

Worth the extra $$. All the ladies were taking selfie with the poster and the bride even took it home to show the groom. 

We have Expanded by Four Feet : Our First Puppy

Well well well, here is our little man!! Meet Newman. He is a Redbone Coonhound. Everyone thinks he's a Dachshund , but little do they know he's going to quadruple in size.  He is already waking us up at 5:45am, snores like a lion and keeps us on-the-go all day long. Newman has been adjusting well, he still whines when the washing machine turns on, when we leave the room, or when a car horn goes off, but that will soon fade. He sleeps through the night and has only had a few accidents in the house... hopefully he stays that way. His kitty siblings aren't too sure about him yet, but they are coming around slowly. On Thursday of last week we left Indianapolis  and drove straight to North Carolina to pick up our pup the next morning. This was Dennis and I's first "road trip" together and surprising it went really smoothly. He drove while I got to talk his ear off and keep him awake for 9 hours..... I'm sure he loved it. :) We arrive in NC around 5am and was able to get some shut-eye for about 2 hours and then it was time to pick him up at 7am. He was born on a farm with sheep and lots of other dog.  Much to our surprise he slept most of the way back home to Indianapolis, with just a few potty stops along the way. We arrived back in town on Friday in the evening and snoozed the rest of the night away.

So far.... 

+ He would rather play with cat toys than the dozen dog toys his momma bought him

+ For a little guy, he can snore pretty loud

+ He's afraid the jump off the sofa

+ 10lbs going on 90

+ Not a fan of bath time 

+ Loves peanutbutter 

Newman has surpassed all our our expectations and we couldn't be more excited we made this life long decision.



Make sure to follow me on Instagram and snapchat for more updates on Newman and to watch him grow! 

Snapchat: steph_wilhite 

23 Things About Me

Are you ready for Monday? If not, you better hurry because it's right around the corner. Since I am new to the blogging world I thought it was time I introduce myself. I am 23 years old, so why not start with 23 fun facts about myself.

1. I crave chocolate on a daily basis

2. Im addicted to Starbucks and anything coffee

3. Painting is how I destress
4. I'm the exact definition of a crazy cat lady

5. Ice cream is my favorite

6.  I love Jesus
7. I was born and raised in Evansville Indiana. 

8. I've had scoliosis since I was 15

9. I could live on ice cream and frozen grape.....but not combined together

10. I melt over flowers

11. I'm a thinker

12. My dream job would be to own/run my own humane society

13. I love to shop

14. I have horrible anxiety but I learn to manage it

15. I'm slowly beginning to hoard coffee mugs

16. I'm a smoothie addict 

17. Gardening is my favorite pastime 

18. I can't stand doing laundry

19. I wish to own a chicken coop in my backyard one day

20. I'm really shy

21. Quotes make me happy 

22. I love vintage things

23. Romantic movie junkie

Thanks for stopping by! Take a look around and let me know what you think!
I have a ton of fun things lined up for this week!

Here Lately...

ok, ok, i have been sitting here for the past couple of days, contemplating on what to write. everyone is posting about their goals and expectations for this new year..... and I'm over year still eating leftover pizza from the night before, skipping the gym but saying i went, eating a salad for lunch but them having ice cream right after.... maybe it's this cold weather, but i am far from making goals and new life choices....to be honest i like the way my life is going right now, i am the happiest i've been in a long time. i'm finally starting to find my path in life and i don't want that to change anytime soon......

Every January we make these things called resolutions that we swear we are going to keep, fulfill, and then come February we are running right back to our old habits from the prior year. so i'm not going to sit here and make unreasonable expectations for myself.... i am going to take this new year one day at a time and enjoy and embrace every moment i can. without planning out my weeks because i don't want to be focused on whats next, but instead fully taking in the moment i'm in. Make 2016 your year, i know i will.

i will continue to be somewhat lazy and snuggle with my cats on Sunday afternoons. 

i will continue to drink waaaaaay to much Starbucks even when my bank account is telling me otherwise.

i will still try to explore every inch of this world

i will forever make messes wherever i go... (this is something i wish would change to some degree)

even though i planted over 100 bulbs in my backyard this past summer, i will continue to plant more this spring and watch them bloom.