End of Summer 2013

We've had a wonderful summer. I love this season! I love the sunshine, the warm water, the good times with friends, grilling out, the outdoor parties and all of the other fabulous things that come with Summer in the South. We do Summer well in this beautiful part of the country.

The last Saturday of July we attended a festive white party held at Manker Patton Tennis Club on the river downtown. It was hosted by the Chattanooga Girls Cotillion Club. We had a so much fun mingling with our friends and dancing the night away!

Later on in August, I had the chance to go whitewater rafting on the Ocoee for the first time with my Dad, Ashley and Joe. Wow! What a rush! I was so scared at first, but after the initial shock, I loved every minute if it and cannot wait to go again!

Also in August, we had the chance to see Kenny Chesney and Zac Brown Band in Atlanta at the Georgia Dome. It was a blast! We went with our good friends Ryan and Rhonda. Kenny and Zac were amazing to say the least. I can't wait to see them again!

My sweet Mom's birthday was also in August. We celebrated at her favorite restaurant Alleia. It was absolutely scrumptious. I had the best braised pork with grilled peaches, sautéed purple cabbage and spinach. Rob and mom had delicious homemade ravioli. Jerry had spicy shrimp with linguine. We also had an appetizer of bacon wrapped dates which were unbelievably yummy.

Summer is almost over so I'm going to enjoy the last little bit of sunshine and warm breezes here in the South.

xoxo,

Amber Lea

Summer 2013

Other than Christmas, Summer is my favorite time of the year. I actually told Rob this year that my love for the beach is equal with my love for Christmas. He gasped in disbelief because he knows how obsessed I am with Christmas! Here's what the Gardners have been up to so far:

Pretty in Pink Bachelorette Party for Rhonda-May 2013

Boyd Buchanan School Class of 2003 Ten Year High School Reunion at the Walden Club-May 2013

Ryan and Rhonda's Wedding-June 1, 2013 Santa Rosa Beach, Florida 

Summer Vacation 2013 Seacrest Beach, Florida with the Goforths & Holts

This trip solidified my love of 30a! If you haven't been, you have to! The beaches are breath-taking and not crowded. There are lots of locally owned charming boutiques and delicious restaurants, no chains! It's so relaxing and picture perfect. It's pretty much my favorite place on earth.

Dinner at the Back Porch

Dinner at George's in Alys Beach

Outdoor concert and dinner at Bud and Alley's in Seaside

Beach time!

Father's Day in Atlanta with Dad

The 4th of July

Wishing y'all a happy southern summer! There's isn't anywhere better to enjoy this time of year!

xoxo,

Amber Lea

First Half: 2013

At least I'm posting about the current year. I deserve some kudos for that, right? With the iPhone and iPad blogger apps it should be easier for me to update my blog, so fingers crossed! Here's a photo recap of the first half of 2013:

Chattanooga Girls Cotillion Masquerade at the Church on Main, 2-23-13

Baby Konnor is born!! February 2013

My 28th Birthday

Easter Sunday

Shower for Rhonda at the Junior League House

Braves home opener: 4-1-13

Mother's Day

Every picture is a reminder of what a blessed life I live. I love my family and friends and I never take them for granted. Thank you Lord for allowing me to spend the days of my life with these special people whom I love dearly!

xoxo,

Amber Lea