Tuesday, September 30, 2014

I do!

Almost a year ago, Shazzad proposed to me in front of the Mona Lisa.
 On Saturday, we kicked off our worldwide wedding tour in Raleigh, North Carolina.  In the presence of family, a few random hikers, and the occasional frog or earthworm wandering by, we had our legal ceremony and officially became husband and wife.  Yippee!!
On the sunny banks of Big Lake, Umstead Park.
 We chose a spot in the woods of Umstead Park, a beautiful forest where I have run many times.  It was on the lake, which looked picture perfect on a sunny afternoon.
 Surrounded by smiling faces and pine trees, Shazzad and I stood looking at each other as my dad officiated the ceremony.  After a few words of welcome, he remarked,
 As you all know from getting here and from looking around, this spot is a bit off the beaten trail. That is how Shazzad and Maria live– off the beaten path– as they forge their own trail together. 
I think that Shazzad and Maria are well prepared for the journey forward. Maria said recently, ‘I just have a compass. I don't know where it's taking me, but I trust that it's the right path.’ 
Shazzad and Maria, use that compass to find your happiness together in this big world.”

Friday, September 12, 2014

Girls just wanna have fun.......

We had a latte fun!!
I had a great alternative bachelorette weekend with my girls Amanda and Srijita.  We enjoyed the sights, the sounds, and especially the food!!

Hanging out at Bhaktapur
 We spent one day outside of Kathmandu, wandering through the hills of Nagarkot and the dusty streets of Bhaktapur.  It's well know for its wonderful views of the Himalayas.....on a clear day.  We went on a foggy day, so we were happy that we didn't get up at 4AM to try to catch the dawn.

We weather an afternoon rain storm from a coffee
shop with an awesome view of the Boudhanath.
Saying goodbye!  Over one last coffee!!
Check out the full photo album.