M.I.A.

Yes, I have been M.I.A. for some time now. My last post, I was getting back into the swing of things. Well, ever since then my life has turned upside (or right side up?) - either way - lots has been going on. To fill you in with a few words and pictures.

Engaged
Ryan proposed to me on June 25th. The engagement story post is coming. It was a full day, thus the time it is going to take to write the story. Spark notes version: I woke up to Ryan gone and a note. I was sent on a scavenger hunt lead by my friend Jani from my Team Challenge group of friends, and ended at my apartment where Ryan made a homemade dinner of pasta with pesto and fresh mussels. The proposal involved Mike's Pastries' cannoli's and a diamond ring! The night didn't end there. But lots of family and friends were waiting at a local bar for us as a surprise party, including friends that traveled a state or two to get here.

Transplant Date
Days after our exciting (and surprise!) engagement, we got news of a date for Ryan's transplant! Ryan's surgery is set for August 23rd. The clinical trial was approved. In the meantime, we've been to lots of appointments at the hospital, Ryan and his mom have been through some bloodwork and we are so close. We are counting down the days. Ryan can't wait to finish his dialysis treatments, though bittersweet to leave such a great staff behind and patients he has become close with who are still awaiting a kidney.

Sister's Shower, Bachelorette and Wedding
I've also been helping my sister with her wedding. Shower is complete and successful! Her bachelorette is this weekend down the Cape (yay!) and her wedding is August 20th, just 3 days before the transplant. I am so excited for my sister and looking forward to seeing all her hard work come together!

Moving
I'm also in the process of moving. I'm moving home, out of my beautiful apartment, to save money for our wedding. We're not expecting to get married until 2013. Until then, we're saving money and focusing on Ryan's transplant and recovery.

Working out, running, etc.

My exercise life has been at a minimum. I sold my number for the Falmouth Road Race, due to too much going on. It's only 7 miles and I know I could run it, but it would be ugly. I'm planned for two half marathons this fall (Rochester, NY in September and Portland, Maine in October). We will see, but I really need to get back into things.

In the meantime, I cashed in on a groupon and have been taking a few boxing classes. It's just techniques, but definitely been doing some bag work. It's a great stress relief, the instructor is excellent, and a sweaty workout. 

*How have your summers been? Do you find it hard to workout when your life is so busy? How do you make ways to fit it in?*

Song of the Post: "Why Don't We Just Dance" - Josh Turner (went to the concert in NH on 7/31. So fun!)