Wedding Dress Fitting

Y'all!!!!!!

Today Mom, Teak, and I went to Ruth's Bridal so I could try on my wedding dress. I have never forgot what the dress looks like mainly because I look at pictures from the day I tried it on at least once a month.

The girls at Ruth's Bridal are beyond sweet and helpful. I was helped into the dress, helped into my shoes, had my veil inserted into my hair, and I put my Texas-sized pearl studs; then I turned around and saw myself. The smile was immediate! It was then time to pull the curtain back so Mom and Teak could see me. They thought I was beautiful and Teak gave her approval. All three of us agree that the dress is classic and timeless. I can't wait to finally post a picture of it for y'all!

After getting into the dress, the seamstress came and had to do a little bit of pinning. The straps and bust region needed to be taken in a little. She did a great job pinning and I know she will make the dress fit to a T. I was telling her about the bracelet I bought of the wedding and I brought it with me to try on with the dress. I love the bracelet but it is a little snug. I like to wear my bracelets loose and the seamstress said she could easily fix that and charged me $15 to lengthen it. I just about hugged her neck! I just can't say enough about Ruth's Bridal. The quality and service have been impeccable.

Once I was in the dress and pinned, I didn't want to get out of it. The girls politely told me they stayed open until 5! I tried to prolong my time in the dress as long as I could! I asked the girls to show Mom how to bustle my dress. Initially we thought something would be sown on the inside but it will be much easier than we expected. They will have two hooks on the outside of train and Mom will easily hook the chapel length train so it won't drag.

Finally, I thought it was time to get out of the dress and let the girls go home after a long week. Seeing the shoes and jewelry with the veil and dress made me fall in love with the dress all over again. I can't wait to see Pink Lou Lou do her magic with hair and makeup. I can't wait to see everything come together. I can't wait for Jace to see me! I can't wait to show y'all the dress! 64 days y'all!!!

Catch up

Friends! Lots has been going on since my last blog post!

Last Wednesday we hosted our annual face-to-face meeting with our team. There are 21 of us and it is always nice to gather together for a day and plan out the upcoming year. During the meeting, I got to say thank you and goodbye to everyone. When I started this job I was 22, green, and nervous. These people have supported me, encouraged me, and helped me grow as a professional. I still have lots to learn but the MITT team has allowed me to get my feet wet and I know I am a better professional because of them. It was bittersweet and I am thankful I got to say thanks in person.

Last Friday I took the day off for the long weekend and got lots of little things done. The next day,  Ross and Beth picked Teak and I up and together we traveled to Nashville. Once in Nashville, we met up with Ely, Kirsten, Aunt Karen, Sara, and Mom at OpryMills Mall. After a wonderful lunch in the mall, we divided and conquered the stores. We had about 3 hours to shop and I had every intention of making the most out of my time. Because I am a planning bride and have an upcoming move to FL, I haven't allowed myself to shop in a L-O-N-G time. I talk myself out of buying things because I have this overwhelming need to save every penny. Money to me means security, not spontaneity.

I vowed on this trip that I would allow myself to buy a few things and to not feel bad about it. Honey, once I told myself it was ok to buy a few things, to not beat myself up about spending money, or think of what I could be doing with the money, I had a grand ol' time. I honestly forgot how much fun shopping was and it cured my fixed! I walked away with a few things for this summer and the honeymoon. Praise the Lord for outlets!

After the shopping sprint, we head to the Opryland hotel and checked in. After everyone rested and were cleaned up, we took a charter bus to the General Jackson. Mom and Teak had been several years ago, loved it, and wanted to go again. The dinner was good and afterwards, there was live entertainment. I think everyone had a great time and enjoyed themselves.

 

My sweet family minus Jace

The next day we all went back home and enjoyed the remainder of the holiday weekend. Sunday I wasn't worth killing but got my act together on Monday and got stuff done. Teak and I planted a few flowers and I got started addressing wedding invitations. I had put off addressing wedding invitations all last week because I knew it would be time consuming. However, once I got started I had fun. It was almost surreal to be stuffing, addressing, and sealing the invitations. I kept thinking to myself, these are our wedding invitations. I finally finished up with all of them yesterday! I only wish I could be there for when each person opens them up. I hope they like them!

Speaking of wedding things, yesterday Dana booked our flight to San Fran so that was one more thing off the to-do list. Almost everything for the honeymoon is booked!

Tomorrow is a big day! Mom is coming up and her, Teak, and I are going to Ruth's Bridal and I get to try my dress on. I haven't forgotten what it looks like and am ready to see how the shoes and jewelry looked with it.

Saturday, I am running my second 5K. I have NOT trained like I did for the Color Me Rad 5K. In fact I can't tell you the last time I ran. It will be a long 3.1 miles. The 5K is titled Run for the Nun and honey you best believe I will be looking for an extra rosary and be praying the whole time I run.

Dear Lord, please let me breathe.

 

Dear Lord, please let my legs move.

 

Dear Lord, please let the water station be close.

 

Dear Lord, please let me finish what I started!

 

Dear Lord, please don't let me forget that I am NOT a runner.

While I will be running and more importantly praying during my 5K, Jace will be studying. He has started Barbari (Bar exam prep) and seems to be doing well with everything. He listens to a lecture in the morning and the afternoon is filled with practice questions. I think he said that for him to pass the TN Bar, he has to score at least a 69%. That is failing in our book and Jace has never had a grade that low.

Y'all that has been my last week! Each week is only going to get busier/crazier with the wedding quickly approaching. I hope y'all have had a good week and an even better weekend!

Jace's Graduation from Law School

On May 10th, Jace graduated from Mississippi College School of Law. Three years of hard work, dedication, perseverance, and sacrifice paid off. I have been dreaming about this day for so long whereas on graduation day Jace was dreaming about sleeping since he had taken three finals that week. The ceremony was held at Jace's church, First Baptist Church. The church is beautiful and is a natural fit for graduation since Mississippi College is the oldest Baptist college in MS.

I was afraid that I would be emotional but surprisingly I wasn't. I was so proud of him and loved everything about the day. If I had taken the time to really reflect on his accomplishment and our journey to graduation day, I could have easily cried. Instead, I chose to live in the moment and not be that crying family member in the audience.

When Pomp and Circumstance played and the graduates filed in, I stood there in awe. 190 people survived law school. 190 people devoted 3 years of their lives to schooling. 190 families supported a loved ones dream to attend law school. There was so much love, admiration, support, and relief felt in that sanctuary.

The Dean of the law school addressed the graduates and he asked for the graduates to stand up if they fit the characteristic he described. If they were already standing and they fit another characteristics he described he asked them to wave their hand. At the end of his list of characteristics, all graduates were standing and many waved their hands multiple times. The point he made was that not only were they students but they were involved and had lives outside of law school. For instance, they helped build homes for Habitat for Humanity, they helped with the free legal clinics, they were a member of Law Review, they got married while in law school, lost a loved one while in law school, etc. It was touching to me to see just how much the graduates had gone through both academically and personally.

The judge for the fifth Circuit Court of Appeals was the key note speaker and he did a great job. They listed his credentials before he spoke and he had continuously climbed the ranks and challenged himself. He addressed the graduates and told them three keys to success. I wish I could tell you what those three keys were but I don't remember. What I do remember is having this wonderful peace wash over me. Peace that reassured me that I don't know what the future holds and that it is ok, to enjoy the journey life takes us, and to be excited.

In our relationship, everything has to be planned out. We have had our law school/marriage plan for at least 6-7 years. We knew that the road would be long and hard but we also knew for Jace to achieve his dreams this would be the path we would have to take. We haven't detoured, not once.

Sitting in that pew and hearing Jace's name being called, seeing him walk across that stage, and be hooded with his JD was the beginning of my peace and excitement. We had finally did it. Our plan came together after all these years. We have no idea where his career will take us. We don't know how many moves we will make or how many Bar exams he will take. But what I do know is that Jace loves helping and serving people. I know he has a God-given gift of understanding tax law and it is his passion. I know he will always keep his client's best interest at heart. I know how much potential he has and can't wait to watch it all unfold.

I think to myself how many times in life do you get to watch someone achieve their dreams? We all have dreams but Jace's dream is now his reality. I was there from the beginning and to see it to fruition is one of my life's greatest blessings. So I couldn't help but be excited for him and for our future. I couldn't help to feel peace as he accomplished his goal.

In essence, it was a great day. Once the ceremony was over, everyone met outside and congratulated each other. Friends were introduced to parents and professors. Wives congratulated each other because they too had earned a JD. Everyone was so happy and proud. I snapped a few pictures from the day.

Walking In

Jace Allen Stamper, Magna Cum Laude

Hooded

Did it!!!!

Jace and our dear friend, Will Morgan

The Stampers & MeMaw

Kennedy, Vince, & Jace

The Graduate and I

Jace and the one and only, Bo Baxter

Haley and I

Jace and David Parker

Jace with the man himself, J. Larry Lee. (Jace's tax professor)

Jace, I am so proud of you and thank you for letting me tag along for the ride. You inspire me, challenge me, and let me know that dreams do come true. I realized dreams really do come true when you asked me to marry you. Let's learn this life together and do it hand-in-hand. I pray that God continues to bless you and let you live out your calling. You are going to do great things Jace and thanks for letting me bear witness to your success. Our "one day" is quickly approaching and I couldn't be happier. Love you!

FAQ

I have noticed with our upcoming wedding and move that I am asked several questions. The questions are asked out of love and I don't mind answering. There are lots of changes about to happen and I know some people may want to know what our future holds and why we have done or will make these decisions. So without further ado, here are some common questions Jace and I are asked.

Question: When is the wedding date? Location?

August 3rd in Lexington, KY

Question: Why Lexington?

I have lived in Lexington for 8 years now. This is my home even though Mayfield will always be home, home. I also chose Lexington because my church is here. My time at Crestwood Christian has been wonderful. I have developed a richer relationship with God here and wanted my current minister to marry us. In addition, my mother and aunts got married at Crestwood and Papaw was a Deacon. Teak has been involved with the Disciples Women Ministry for years. It just made sense to choose Crestwood. Also, it is easy to plan a wedding in the town you reside as opposed to one 4 hours away.

Question: Where is the honeymoon?

We are escaping to San Francisco and Monterrey, CA. Jace and his family visited here 5 years ago and he promised me that he would take me there one day. August 4th we fly out and will be gone for a week. We plan on going to Alcatraz, seeing the Red Wood trees, seeing the Full House houses, drink wine and eat our weight in great food.

Question: What about your job?

I will resign and my last day is June 28th. I wanted a full month off before the wedding to finish any last minute details. I also wanted to end on the last day of the fiscal year so it would be easier on the accountant. I am thankful for this job because it has allowed me to see a different side of Cooperative Extension, allowed me to complete my Master's degree, and meet a lot of wonderful people.

Question: Why did we chose to attend University of Florida?

Jace did extensive research on LL.M programs and there are only a handful of schools that offer this degree: NYU, Georgetown, a school in Denver, University of Florida, Alabama, Washington University, SMU in Dallas, and a few others. We looked at two schools seriously: Washington University in St. Louis and University of Florida. For one night we toyed with the idea of going to NYU since it is the #1 school for tax but we realized we would live out of our car since the cost of living is so high. Same thing for Georgetown. I was all for Alabama but it is an online program and if we are going to spend all this money, we thought it would be best to go to an actual school and see professors every day. University of Florida was in the South and this girl wanted to stay in the South. The advantage of WashU is that it is only 3 hours from family. Ultimately we decided to apply to UF and it was the only school he applied to. We put all our eggs in one basket and the good Lord allowed us to be accepted.

Question: What exactly is Jace going to do at the University of Florida? Why isn't he done with school yet? Is Jace ever going to work?

Basically, he is getting a Master's degree in Law. This program is one year but at this point of schooling, what is one more year? We have no kids, no pets, so why not? Yes, Jace will work! In fact, Jace worked 10 months this past year for a tax attorney but resigned to focus on school.

Question: What are you going to do in Florida?

If you ask me, my first response will be I will be a "sugar momma"! In all seriousness, I will work somewhere but I have no clue where. I would love to work at the university and have applied to 3 jobs. I would love to work Monday-Friday, 8-5 but that is also a perfect world. In that perfect world, I have benefits, insurance, and vacation days. However, I am prepared to work anywhere. I am trying to be mentally prepared to not get to come home hardly at all in the next year. We will see what happens.

Question: Are you taking your car to Florida?

At first I wasn't because I am scared to drive that far. I am Miss Daisy and just didn't think I could do it. However, I have to overcome that fear. I was fine to take public transportation but after thinking about it for quite some time, I just couldn't have my freedom taken away.

Question: Where do you want to eventually live?

For the longest time, I wanted to live in Jackson. Jace and I love it there, Jace has made connections there, our friends are there, and we love First Baptist Jackson. However, we know that we will care for aging parents one day. We want to be close to our families and Nashville felt like a natural fit for us. It is close to home but also requires a phone call from Momma's who want to visit :) If we do reside in Nashville, it will be the closet to home I will be in 9 years. 4 years for Jace. It means the world to us to hop in the car and be home in 2 hours.

Question: Where will Jace study for the BAR?

Jace will study for the BAR this summer in Jackson. His apartment is there and he is comfortable studying there. The exam is July 30 and 31st, which is the Tuesday and Wednesday before our wedding. Needless to say it will be a big week for us!

Question: I get this one a lot! Are you going to miss Teak? What will the Teak do without you there?

I can't hardly talk about it. I have lived with Teak for 4 years and have seen her every week for 8 years. We are more than grandmother-granddaughter and it kills me to leave her. However, I know she has raised 3 daughters and she understands that the importance of leaving home. She is in great health and she will stay busy with church activities and bridge. However, that doesn't make it any easier to leave her. I have been the eyes and ears for my Mom and aunts and have helped when I could. I will call frequently and visit as often as I possibly can. I hope I can get all the tears out before I have to leave. I have warned Jace that on the drive to Mayfield from Lexington after our honeymoon I will cry the entire way home and will have snot coming out of my nose. It will be that nasty cry. In the meantime, I try not to think about it. This is also the question I hate the most.

Question: What are you most excited about in terms of moving? Marrying?

As much as I hate to leave Teak, I am excited to be Mrs. Jace Stamper. I am ready to see him each and every day, be in the same time zone & state. I am ready to feel what every day feels like with Jace. I am ready to start living life with the one I love.

I am excited about moving to Gainesville and having our first year of marriage in a new place, completely on our own and learn what exactly its like to live with a boy. After 8 years apart, I am ready to have our first year completely to ourselves.

Question: How are wedding plans coming along?

Things are coming along nicely. My dress is in and Mom and I are picking it up on May 31st. All invitations items are in and I need to address those. Showers are planned and are coming up. We have completed marital counseling and will plan out the ceremony soon. This past weekend when Jace was in KY, I showed him the reception venue, linens, and rentals. He had never seen anything related to the wedding and I was afraid he never would until the day of the wedding. I was so happy to show him everything!

If I didn't answer a question that you have, ask me. There are lots of changes happening in the next 3 months and I know people are curious and care.

Wedding Weekends

The past two weekends were filled with love at two lovely weddings. Nothing is more beautiful than seeing friends marry their best friend.

Shortly after Jace's graduation, we hopped in the car and drove to KY so we could attend Jay and Lisa's wedding. Jace was a groomsman and the wedding was at Keeneland. Jay and Jace have been friends since high school and Jay is Jace's best man. I love that Jay and Jace were/are engaged at the same time and could talk wedding stuff. Surprisingly, guys talk about wedding things more than most girls would think!

We had the absolute best time at Jay and Lisa's wedding! Mr. Cash can throw a party and more importantly make everyone feel so welcome! Jay and Lisa were so hospitable and I think they danced with almost every guest that attended and let me tell you, those two can cut a rug! Jay gets it naturally because his momma has some amazing dance moves!

Everything about their wedding was classy and timeless. The venue, the food, the flowers, the decorations, the bridesmaids dresses, the band, the lighting, everything. Everything was so detailed and looked great. Thanks Jay and Lisa for a wonderful evening. Jace and I love you!



Kentucky Room at Keeneland



Jace and Lisa dancing

Only Jay Cash can dance with two girls at the same time

Best friends

The Joe Harvey Band

This past weekend, Matt and Liz got married in Mayfield at the Lodge at Emerald Waters. Jace and I had never been there before and it was beautiful. The Lodge can accommodate weddings but can also be rented out for hunting expeditions. The lake at the Lodge is over 80 acres and it is beautiful. God's country really is in Graves County. The Lodge fit Matt and Liz to a T! It had a country feel to it but was also elegant.

I saw Liz after she got her hair done and before makeup. She was glowing. She was calm and collected and very ready to see Matt. The next time I saw her was when her daddy walked her down the aisle. She was emotional and you could tell she was soaking up the moment. The way Matt looked at her while standing at the alter, it was simply love.

Husband & Wife

One of the most beautiful cakes I have ever seen

Cake cutting time!

After their vows and exchanging of rings, the bridal party took pictures and it allowed Jace and I and the other guests time to soak up the views of the Lodge. After pictures, we ate a wonderful meal of BBQ and maybe the best tasting hashbrown casserole I have ever had. Once the cake was cut, it was time to hit the dance floor. Thankfully from Jay and Lisa's wedding, Jace and I were already warmed up on our dance moves.

Overall the night was wonderful, the bride was stunning and now they are enjoying a much needed honeymoon! Best wishes Matt & Liz!

Traveling Sabbath

I have had so many thoughts running through my head lately and have finally found time to get them in word.

In Sunday School we have been reading a book by Matthew Sleeth, called 24/6. It stresses the importance of taking one day a week to observe the Sabbath. I understand the importance but struggled with finding ways for me to observe the Sabbath. I struggled with this for several weeks but finally found it this past week.

This past week, I traveled home and did a presentation in Princeton. I found my Sabbath in the four hour drive. What I love about the drive home is that I am away from the computer and I can sit back, drive, and just think. I notice nature's beauty and enjoy the solitude of just me and my radio. When I arrived at home, there is a sense of comfort that washes over me. There truly is no place like home.

I also found my Sabbath at home. I love nothing more than sitting on our deck or porch, watching the day begin or enjoying the final minutes of daylight in the evening. I love nothing more than sitting outside at night, watching my pup and Big play outside. I try to stay out there until the mosquitoes get to me and it becomes too dark to see. This is my Sabbath. During this time, I find myself thanking God for his many blessings. In Graves county, my soul is refreshed and I only wish I could get back more often.

After I completed my presentation Tuesday night, I returned to Lexington Wednesday afternoon. I arrived back in town just to leave again. I visited Lauren and Adam this weekend and we had the best time. There is something about spending time with your best friends that does a body good.

The traveling will continue...Wednesday I fly out for Jace's law school graduation. He graduates this upcoming Friday and I can't believe it. Where has 3 years gone? I always thought I would be a mess at graduation but I think I will hold it together. Now, his momma is a different story. Dana may not leave with any mascara on.

Right after graduation, Jace and I will get in the car and drive back to KY for Jay's wedding. This drive will be a first for me. To be honest with you, I am just like Miss Daisy. I have never drove in big cities before and traffic scares me. To help me overcome this fear, I suggested to Jace that I drive part of the way back to KY so I could get some experience and he will be there to help coach me. This means I will route around Memphis. If you would, say an extra prayer for me. I will need divine intervention!

Through all my travels I think I found my Sabbath. Traveling gives me time to reconnect with my thoughts and I can reflect on the blessings in my life. What is your Sabbath?