My husband and I eloped to Santa Barbara a MONTH ago {seriously, how does that happen? Time FLIES.} and one of my biggest blessings is marrying into such a wonderful family. His family is very close and I am oh-so-lucky to be a part of it! We automatically pencil into our calendars a family breakfast on the first Sunday of every month. It’s an easy way to ensure we all get together at least once a month to say ‘hi’ IN PERSON and I love it {not to mention, I’m a breakfast food junkie, so I was immediately on board}. May’s breakfast soiree was the first time Larry and I were able to see his whole family upon returning from Santa Barbara. It was fun to sit around the table and recount stories from that glorious week, but the big surprise came when Larry’s sister, Danielle, handed us THE MOST BEAUTIFUL PRESENT EVER. If you know me, you know I’m obsessed with anything I consider Marshall’s-esque. I held this gorgeous weathered grey treasure chest and, truthfully, I would have simply been happy with the container — let alone with what was inside!

Inside Danielle had written a little poem {HIGHLY impressive in its own right} and as I read through it, I could not believe how thoughtful this gift was. Inside was a folder for every month of our first year of marriage with something she had pre-planned for us to do.  My heart was so FULL.

May’s month included a stack of passes to CJ Barrymore’s, which is a mini-theme park where you can do mini-golf, batting cages, go-karts, the works! I could not help but share this incredible gift, because, quite honestly, I was blown away by the thoughtfulness and generosity. Thank you so much, Danielle + Jeff {and Steph, I know you helped, too!}, from the bottom of our hearts. You made Year 1 that much more special! 🙂 xo