jen+chris | virginia wedding

a reading from their ceremony. 

An excerpt from Captain Corelli's Mandolin by Louis de Bernieres.

Love is a temporary madness, 

it erupts like volcanoes and then subsides.

And when it subsides you have to make a decision.

You have to work out whether your roots have so entwined together 

that is is inconceivable that you should ever part.

Because this is what love is.

Love is not breathlessness, 

it is not excitement,

it is not the promulgation of eternal passion.

That's just vein "in love" which any fool can do.

Love itself is what is left over when being in love has burned away,

and this is both an art and a fortunate accident.

Those that truly love, have roots that grow towards each other underground,

and when all the pretty blossoms have fallen from their branches, 

they find that they are one tree and not two.

so much love to you both. you guys are the real deal.

A huge shout out to:
Megan, from Forage, who killed it on the decor,
A Pimento on the delicious, locally inspired food,
Meriwether Springs Vineyard for hosting this lovely wedding and the easy, breezy vibe,
KC for all the dance music.

And all the incredible family and friends surrounding Jen and Chris that gave endless love
and blessings. This made their wedding go down in my book as an all time fav.

I'd like to second one of the many blessings shared by a guest during their ceremony,
"May your love grow ever stronger as you share your lives together,
and may your future be even more wonderful than you dreamed."

happy easter.

hope everyone (who celebrates) had a delicious and lovely easter.

golden beets.

a moment | make a wish

The last few days of summer are here. I hope you get out to enjoy some of it's goodness. I do love these days but I'm ready...bring on the crisp fall days and all the fall flavors. Below is a favorite moment from the summer. Make your end of summer wishes and I hope they come to you this next season.

café indigo | sperryville, virginia

Nestled in at the foot of the Blue Ridge Mountains is the charming small town of Sperryville. Though small, this town packs a punch -- a handful of fantastic dining options, progressive minded artisans and picturesque scenery. This time of year being one of my favorites, fall, when the leaves catch fire and add colorful texture to the mountains.
Café Indigo can be found in the River District Arts building and is serving brunch and dinner on the weekends. It's super cozy and a perfect "Sunday" in my mind. After walking through the 12 or so artist studios you enter the restaurant which is showing off more local art, with hanging textile art, the tables where you sit (made by Antique Tables Made Daily) to the coffee creamer cups and of course the food. Supporting local food. Yup, these guys are good. Beautifully renovated and recently under new management this is a promising stop on your Blue Ridge outing.
Thank you guys for having me out and feeding me well. :)

sneak peak | America's First Foodie

Here's one from this mornings venture through Thomas Jefferson's gorgeous gardens. I tagged along with friend, writer and fellow food lover, Alex, for the kick off event of this years Heritage Festival. Pictured is a lavender infused lemonade, perfect for hot summer or indian summer days. More to come.

instax moment | chris

a moment | autumn begins

I agree with Dorothy Parker, autumn is fantastic. I'm loving all the little hints of fall beginning to take over summer. It's a beautiful time of year in here in Virginia, hope everyone can take a moment to get out and enjoy it!