Fall is Here and So are More Beards.

October flew so fast that I have no idea where the past week even went. Now it is November and it is the notorious month that my husband becomes even more grizzly- No Shave November. We will see how mountainous his beard can get this year! Good thing for me, I love beards. 

Halloween was a ton of fun this year. We split it up and spent half with friends and the other half with family. We took my niece trick-or-treating in Boulder with her Mom and Daddy Dave! She was adorable as usual!

Such a cute family!

This month there is a whole lot to look forward to! Hiking trips, more mountain time, friends coming to visit, a trip back home to Oklahoma, Thanksgiving, and much more! Oh, and I already decorated for Thanksgiving/Fall/Christmas. I love the holidays! Our home is glowing with lights, pumpkins, garland, fall berries, snow, birds, pinecones, and ornaments! 

I need to get back into the swing off this blog! I enjoy doing it because it helps to keep track of what George and I are up to. So far we are ready for holidays and looking forward to seeing friends and family this month! 

If Life Was Easy...

Getting back in the groove and finding new ones must have been what fall had in store for me in her dusty leaf filled pile this season. This week was full with travel, laughter, friends, and great family. Though I am getting settled more and more here, it never fails that I can't sit still. Maybe that's a good thing and it just keeps me on my toes, but I blame it on the mountains. I can't seem to ever get my fill, so George and I spent the day in Breckenridge on Thursday. 

It was so beautiful and to attempt to describe the atmosphere in words, it wouldn't do it justice.

i believe there is something majestic in the mountains, it captures the very core of man.

Meandering about the town and staring at the face of the mountains almost drooling in excitement for the slopes to open in 22 days... this explains most of our trip. We found our way into a spice and tea shop and I picked up this great Shaman tea. I had about 4 cups yesterday and am completely hooked.

It is freeing to get out into the Rockies. It does good to the mind, body, and soul breathing in the mountain air and getting completely lost subconsciously in nature. We didn't want to ever leave this place.  As the storms brewed ahead, we decided to make our way home and say farewell to this mountain town. We will see you soon...  

Looking back about a year ago, I would never have thought that I would be living in Colorado and be at the doorstep of the Rockies. I am forever thankful for life leading us here and also putting family 18 miles away. Not a day goes by that I take this new life for granted. Maybe my mind is reassuring something to me or perhaps trying to instill something deep within me, but the other day I had this random thought--

If life was easy, where would all the adventures be?

Everyone gets curve balls thrown at them in life and bumps in the road. If it weren't for those bumps and pot holes and maybe a few blown out tires, we never would have made the move out to Colorado. We use all these metaphors for hard times and trials in life such as- road bumps, walls, and storms... but what if instead of looking at them in a negative light, we learn to rejoice and be excited for the challenge to come and see where it will take us next. 

Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass, it's about learning how to dance in the rain.

Coffee Beans and Marketing Schemes

It's yet another sunny day here in the 303 and my mental desk is piling up with work, work, and more work! Now that the coffee is done brewing I can begin.  I love my job, as most know, and I have so many ideas I need to put into action... Marketing strategies, building customer relations, online store, web design, floor moves, and new "scenes" in the store to just mention a few. I am hoping that I can mentor the intern on some of my day to day manager duties so that it will allow some time for me to hit the ground running. Also, while my best friend was visiting from Oklahoma I picked her brain about a few ideas and am so excited for her to move up here! I am hoping we can hire her part-time for marketing and event planning.

Another photo shoot is in the works for the store and I am so excited! I can't wait to start doodling it out.Thanks to my husband for the Urban shoot last week. Turned out great!

Hair: Abby Denson (Studio on Bannock); Clothing: Twice as Haute; Photography: George Ferris

Well not and interesting post, but it helps me to organize my brain before I start the day. 

Time to flex my creativity! 

How much you put into your job, is what you get back. And I plan on making it one hell of a ride!

Back to Me and You.

I have been slacking off lately with this whole blog thing. Having a husband who loves to be on the go as much as his wife leaves little time! The weekend was full of fun- family in town, art show, hiking and great food.  Last night was especially special to me, it was back to just me and George. With constantly being around friends and having company in town, it's difficult to have a solid moment of just the two of us. We went strolling around downtown in the cold rain and eventually ended up at a great restaurant that warmed our bellies.  Gazing into each others eyes from across the table, it brought me back to the "why".  Why I married George and how I fell hopelessly in love with him. 

Walking hand in hand on the cold silent streets, it was a simple moment that I will cherish forever with him. 

Having his hand in mine was a cosmic connection radiating with energy and love. We can close our eyes and not even speak, and know exactly what is in each other's hearts. As to "why" and "how" I fell in love with my best friend? Of course there are reasons that I could list on and on, but it's not a trait or characteristic. Its a feeling. The feeling of being connected through something so deep, there are no words to pin point it. The connection of energy, spirit, and mind... this just skims the surface. For those of you that have found the One, you know what I am talking about. It cannot be expressed, defined, or described. It just is. 

I don't need flowers, I don't need a fancy meal, I don't need constant attention, I don't need to be doted on.... just Be and that is enough to satisfy my heart.

to my husband with love,

xo-wife

Rekindling Fond Memories and Making New Ones...

Life has gotten crazy and busy, in a good way! George's photography has taken off and he has all of his pieces ready for the art show tomorrow night. We've spent the past few days playing catch-up and working on fun projects, that time has flown at what seems like record speed. How is it already mid October? This weekend is filled with friends in town and family, and I love it! Yesterday I was off work early, did a photo shoot for work, and spent the remainder of the evening having a blast. 

Complementary Tequila is Always Served Best in a Severed Lime.

When in doubt, always drop what you are doing for a great time.

We went to "Geeks Who Drink" night at Rooster and Moon- a fantastic coffee shop and bar. It was trivia night and even though we came in 6th place, We weren't too shabby! I don't know what we would've done without George and Brent's computer knowledge. It truly was 100% Geeks there and it was the most fun I have had this week! Thanks friends for being nerds :)

I love him.

We look like sisters and act like hooligans.  I don't know what I would do without her.

All in all, it was a memorable night of laughter, drinks, great friends, and of course food. I am so blessed that I have a bond with my friends that is unlike any other. They are my family, my blood, and though we come from different places it's like we cosmically found each other for a reason.

Without out them, I don't know where I would be. They are the butter to my bread and the breath to my life.

To my friends, with love

-xo, wife.

Woken Dreams and BINGO Screams.

Waking up to the sound of distant trains, rain drops, and wind on the high-rise put me in a lucid state of woken dreaming. It's weather like this that cleanses our mind and soul of the everyday stresses life may bring. Perhaps it's Mother Nature's way of making our busy bodies slow down for a while and actually take a look around. 

Our incandescently splendid view.

Every other Monday night our friend hosts Bingo at a bar called Sputnik. We haven't been in a while and it was wonderful seeing her again! She is the most animated, loving, and charismatic person I have ever met. She loves life and when there is a bump in the road, she will look at it head on and keep going in full force. When we moved here, meeting her was a blessing and she still remains an inspiration to me. Thank you Brandi for being 100% you.

Brandi is the cute Filipino hiding behind me :)

Last Night I got the first BINGO of the night and won a $10 to Sputnik and two tickets to see K-OS next Monday night! Score! It was a great time and had so much fun.

Brandi and Meg's working their Bingo magic.

BINGO!

Cheers to friends, making new friends, and shouting BINGO!

All in all it's been a great start to the week and Tuesday is already looking more beautiful than ever! 

There is something in the mountains here, I don't know what to call it- but it has a spell on me. There is nothing better than waking up and smelling sweet fresh mountain air, looking to the west and seeing the magnificent rockies 15 minutes from your doorstep. It's the little things in life that make each day worth living and squeezing every last drop from it that you can. It has molded and changed my perspective on life, love, goals, and ambitions. I don't know what you did to me Momma Nature, but thanks.

All we have is now, and let's make the now worth every breath.

xo-wife.

Sun Rays and Snow Caps

This morning it was an early one for sure. On the road at 6:00 am- streets quiet, crisp weather, and the sky still black as ever. I drove the husband to the airport so he could catch a plane back home to photograph a friends wedding. I wish that I was able to go, but duty calls and I have the office and store to attend to! I was sad to leave him- ya, I know it's only for a few days but come on! We are newlyweds! And newlyweds that have crazy adventurous fun together. He's my best bud, and my husband- the best of both worlds. I think that is why most people never see us "PDA" or wrap ourselves around each other in public. There is no need to! Plus come on... 99% of the time we are with friends. When we are kickin' it with friends we are all best pals having a great time. There is no such thing as a third wheel or that ushy-gushy awkwardness in our realm, and I like it that way! 


So driving back home and being sad wife, I was astounded and awestruck by the most beautiful sunrise I have ever seen. Behind me, crazy colors and infront of me rain and snow over the mountains. It was incredible. 

I'd like to think that my dad painted that sunrise for me today. He always read this book called Grandpa Bunny Bunny. It was about a bunny who lost a loved one, and he painted the sky for him so that he knew he was still there. I needed a little hug today, and I got more than a hug. Daddy gave me a sunrise.


It's hard to see but the sunrise illuminated the snow on Mt. Evans. Seeing snow capped mountains brought back this childish giddy excitement about the season turning over! 

Since it was the most beautiful peaceful morning, I couldn't help but snap shots in stand still traffic on 70 and I-25. It made me so thankful to be placed in a city that is charming, resplendent, and radiant.-- I, like the city, have become more radiant and resplendent since my father's passing. Perhaps he was trying to point that out and say, "Look at you and what you have become".

Though it was early, it was so peaceful and rewarding getting up early and seeing the world wake up. And also a little something extra from my dad. 

It meant more to me having that sunrise today, than the past 22 years on earth with him. 

One thing this past year has taught me:

LIFE IS TOO SHORT TO BE ANYTHING BUT HAPPY.

Season Changes, Heart Changes, and Business Changes.

Whew, so much has happened today and I love it! Where to begin!? Well I guess at the beginning. Well this morning started out with Fraggle Rock and dinosaur pancakes. Yes, we like the good old days of childhood memories... why let them go? After breakfast we had a serious husband/wife conversation- in PJ's...post-cartoon... okay well most of you know us.. anyways... We made a huge decision. I mean HUGE. Kids, you may think? Psh, nope. Really friends and family? Come on. We made a pact and commitment to each other to start saving to move to India. Yep. We have wanted to move around and spend our lives discovering places and cultures. Why wait until retirement?! So after a few more years of saving we plan on making a big move and we couldn't be more excited! We plan on visiting within the next year or two, of course and we have piles of research and questions etc etc. But we are excited and ready to start the saving! 

The culture is incredible, the food is beyond amazing, and the atmosphere and geography is more beautiful than I can even describe-- and I haven't even been there! 

Dehradun

Hyderabad

So that is only one slice of the pie today. After our discussion of India we went to the Breckenridge Brewery 10 blocks or so down to enjoy some refreshments. We had a total of 12 tasters which gave us a great overview of all of their beers... And we also got a chance to hang out before work and a business meeting. 

We had "His" and "Her's" Picks. So that we could share and enjoy the 12 selections. Cute, I know.

Finishing up with the brews, George was off to work. I had a business meeting later on over wine that went more than wonderful! I had a ton of ideas, events, and even day-to-day items to propose- and they all went over with a BANG! I couldn't be happier and am so excited with more on my plate to organize and put into motion. Gallery project, runway events, fashion shoots, fun projects for the intern, marketing ideas, promotions, creative window scenes etc. I am in total work mode and in elation with fun ideas to execute. 

Through today's events something came to my mind that does time and time again. In our day to day activities, and hustle and bustle of life the only thing that remains constant is change... I love it! I would not go along well with a boring "normal" life. I don't sit well just at home night after night. I don't enjoy a "normal" workday... which is why I love that I can be creative and come up with ideas, events, and projects to fuel my creative brain. I wouldn't want to live someplace for more than 5-6 years. I have 80 years ahead of me (give or take) and I am going to utilize and embrace each and every one of those! I have half a century to travel, learn, live, and explore! And by golly, I am going to! 

Watch out world, we have plans and are mapping out one heck of a journey!

Change is the only thing that remains constant. Embrace it!

xo-wife

Shake It Off.

The past few nights I haven't been able to sleep. I know that most of it is that I have been desperately needing to go get acupuncture for the past 8-10 weeks for my back and shoulder.  This morning it was like I woke up on the wrong side of the bed from a non-slumberous nights sleep. Most that know me, know that I am 99.9% of the time never negative and I don't complain. Maybe it's my exhaustion or frustration of being tired that has turned me into a sour grump this morning? I'll thumb twiddle the remainder of the day, but I'm sure I pin pointed it to tossing and turning all night. But I'm going to shake off this negativity and sleepiness and enjoy the day I have before me! There is no excuse for anymore of my whining, complaint, or negativity.

POOF!

One huge thing that I have learned and digested this past year is that we hold our own key to happiness. I make a daily choice to let things effect me negatively- like not sleeping etc.  Or I can choose to shake it off, because in the big picture sleep really isn't that big of a deal. Altering one thing, our attitude, will change the entire day and eventually our course of life. If you aren't happy or the day just isn't that great- either change something or change your attitude. Applying this in my life has made me more optimistic and content. There really isn't a need for complaint or negativity in life. It is all under our direct control.

Change your mind, change your attitude, and change your world.

xo- wife.

a little fashion crumb to go with your morning cappuccino...

Yesterday my intern started, and I couldn't be happier! To rewind for a bit, I am a store manager and internship coordinator at a locally owned and operated boutique. I love it, absolutely love it! Even though I had ZERO schooling in business management, merchandising, accounting etc. I feel like I found my niche. I do everything from selecting what merchandise goes into the store; marketing strategies; visuals; account information and management; sales; social media; and yes, janitor. I love interacting with people, fashion, and pushing the envelope with how people interpret fashion and wear it daily. I was stunned to find that my manequins were becoming notorious on 6th street to passers by- it was an affirmation to me. "Hey, maybe you are onto something here.." I have always thought: since we live in clothing daily, why not have some fun with it and create something interesting that is rarely seen. Why wear the usual cardigan and trouser? Why not step on the edge and mish-mash era's, textures, styles, color, sheen and make something completely You? 

We are in a sea of people, so I love creating looks and helping customers find their own style to stand out- from their personality to the tip of their oxford.

It feels good going to work everyday and enjoy what I do. I am fortunate to have full creative freedom and execute ideas/events/marketing options.  Re-imaging the store, shifting the target market, and branding it for the betterment of the business- it's work, but I am curious to see what I can accomplish. It also feels great to find something you love doing. I would have never thought that this job would be something that I look forward to going to 6 days a week. 

And it's great that I have an intern to help me-- two heads and four hands work better. She has never worked retail and is fairly young. I want to give her the internship I never had. Creative freedom, opportunity, building a portfolio, and maybe inspiring her to be different and find her own fashion niche. We will see where this next quarter takes us both! Who knows, maybe I can learn a few things from her as well.

Ciao!

xo- Wife

"Find a job you love and you'll never work a day in your life" -Confucius

Bicycles, Sunrise, and Crunchy Leaves.

Woke up this morning cold and loving it. It was 34 degrees when I woke up and Denver, CO was in a frost advisory. I am pretty sure that being a December baby has a lot to do with my love for fall, and of course winter. Sipping a cup of coffee and enjoying the chilly sunrise from the 7th floor of our building was a perfect way to begin Monday.

Yesterday George and I spent a lazy Sunday enjoying the sunshine, napping, and cooking. We got our hairs did and I also got a bicycle! We spent part of the afternoon with our friend, and hair guru, Abby. She gave George a fresh new hair cut and put some feathers in my hair. She is wonderful company and also has a pretty cute pug, Deuce. Well to go off on a short tangent-- George has been trying to find a bike that fits me. Since I am short, I needed a 47 or something even smaller. It has been quite the voyage, but Abby gave me her old Schwinn that has was sitting on her balcony! The frame was too short for her, so she let me inherit it! It is vintage and perfect. I can't wait for the husband to re-build it for me and get it cleaned up. 

Looks like we need to make another trip to REI for a bike rack!

Our entry will soon be nothing but bicycles, fine with me!

Cheers to great friends, a new bike, and the beginning of another great week!

Happy Monday!

xo, wife.

Sometimes Dreams Aren't Just Dreams.

It's already been a great week! Ideas running about like mad men, and the husband and I are full of creative things! Today was a morning of chillax-in' and then off to work for the both of us. This is our inspiration for the week. Short. Simple. To the point.

Happy Weekend To All!

Love and Hugs

Kerri

A Breath of Fresh Air.

George and I both had the morning + afternoon off. Naturally, we wanted to spend the day outside, enjoying the sunshine, and doing something different. We went to an incredible art show in Englewood in the afternoon and enjoyed a picnic in the sunshine. 

Our picnic spot.

The art instillation was brilliant! The artist collected all sorts of nicknacks from different countries all over the world. Books, stamps, figures, textiles, buttons, furniture etc. He created his art out of all of the various items- mixing mediums, cultures, ideas, religions. It was inspirational to see the world through his eyes.

Lighting instillation.

Each pice was remarkable. After leaving the show, we strolled over to The Great Divide Brewery about 12 blocks from our home. It was an enjoyable walk- observing the city, the people, and taking in every moment of a pleasant day off. Taking a seat at the bar and imbibing in wonderful beer was the cherry on top of our sundae.

Divine Brew.

I just finished watching 180° South. An enlightening documentary that spurred my taste for adventure. Climbing, trekking, life on the move-- Inspirational. To put my goal into motion, I plan on acquiring my rock climbing certification in Colorado soon. It shouldn't be too different from the testing in Oklahoma I went through. But it will be the first step. I am lucky that I have a husband that understands and nourishes my longing for adventure. We both agreed to live in Denver for the time being to get our feet on the ground. What is to come next? Morocco? New Zealand? Croatia? Brazil? Chile? India? Why not. People that know us, know that we live for spontaneity and have a hunger to travel and experience all that this world has to offer. We don't want to be grounded by a mortgage, car payments etc. We want to live a life of simplicity. And how better than to seek nature and all its many offerings of splendor, life, and adventure with only a backpack. This is our idea of a beautiful life. 

In Denver, this is only the beginning...