Heart Walk 2015

Last weekend, Kris and I participated in a heart walk for the American Heart Association. In January, Kris and I lost someone very important to us, my grandmother, to a stroke. We couldn't think of a better way to honor her than to help raise money for a charity that helps with research for strokes and heart disease.

Kris had previously participated in Relay for Life but I'd never done anything like this before. It was a completely enriching experience for me. We got there bright and early and were there for all of the festivities. Hundreds of people showed up, there was music and dancing and there was tons of food. It was a really great way to get everyone energized for the walk.

However, there was a part of the day that I wasn't expecting. During the opening ceremonies, they brought up survivors who got up and told their stories. Among those survivors were small children that were born with heart defects and required multiple surgeries before they could even walk. When their parents told their stories, my heart completely broke. It was so devastating to think that those adorable little childrens' lives were already so hard. It was a completely humbling experience and it made me remember why all of us showed up to that event, to make a difference for everyone that needed help.

Kris and I are so glad that we participated and honored my grandmother. Over $199,000 was raised and it was amazing to see such a small community come together to raise that astounding amount of money. That day was definitely an inspiration and I look forward to participating in more events like this in the future.

If you ever have the chance to participate in walks like this, I encourage you to do so. One small act of kindness can change someone's life.

-Chelsea

My Top 7 Chick-Flicks

I can't believe that it's been almost a month since I last posted. Man, I've been slacking! Actually, I've just been busy with other things and unfortunately, my blog suffered for it. But I'm here today with another post and I've decided to share my top 7 chick-flicks with you guys! Who doesn't love a good chick-flick, right?

They are in no particular order. They're just movies that always put me in a good mood or make me cry. (And trust me, it's not easy to make me cry in movies!)

1. A Walk to Remember- This is one of my all-time favorite movies and it always will be. The relationship between Landon and Jamie is absolutely beautiful. This story is heart-wrenching and tragic but has its really emotional, perfect moments. It has an amazing script and is a story that will always stick with me. And this is one of the few movies that makes me cry.

2. The Sound of Music- This is definitely another one of my all-time favorites. I used to watch this movie all the time with my grandmother before she passed away. We bonded over our shared love for this incredible movie. Julie Andrews is spectacular as always and the songs always put me in a good mood. This movie is not only a timeless classic but is also a memory that connects me to my grandma. For those reasons, I'll always cherish this movie and it will always be a favorite.

3. Ever After- I think that this movie is one of the best Cinderella remakes ever and I know that a lot of people agree with that. Drew Barrymore and Dougary Scott are perfection in this movie. In this Cinderella story, we get to see Prince Henry and Danielle get to know each other and fall in love over time. Henry's character is endearing in his pursuit of Danielle and Danielle is headstrong, brave and somewhat feisty. This is a new side to Cinderella and gives her more of a personality, which we all can appreciate. So Ever After definitely deserves a place on this list!

4. Another Cinderella Story- You may be surprised that this movie ended up on my list too. I call this movie my guilty pleasure. I absolutely love Drew Seeley, so that's definitely a plus for this movie. Another Cinderella Story is fun, funny, charming and cute. I love that they added dancing and music to the story. The reason that I count it as one of my favorite chick-flicks is because I put this movie on whenever I'm in a bad mood and it always cheers me up. No matter what.

5. Ella Enchanted- This is another fun love story that never fails to put a smile on my face. I'm a HUGE Anne Hathaway fan and this is one of my favorite movies that she's ever done. I love everything about this movie from the characters, to the setting, to the magic to the love story. I love the message that the movie sends and the fun atmosphere that the story provides. It really feels like you're going on an adventure in a far-off magical land with Ella and Char. This is a great movie to put on when you need a little escape from reality.

6. Pride and Prejudice- This is not just one of my favorite movies; it's also one of my favorite books. Anything by Jane Austen is spectacular but Pride and Prejudice holds a special place in my heart. The story is way ahead of its time and allows us to learn about life while also being entertained. The message behind this movie is so important and is made better by the incredible story that's being told.

7. Legally Blonde- Seriously, what's not to love about Reese Witherspoon? Whenever this movie is on TV, I can't help but watch it. It's one of those movies that just sucks you in and you root for Elle so much. You can't help it. She learns about who she is and what she's capable of. It's a really fun, girly story but also has a great message about self-discovery in it. It's a real feel-good movie with lots of girl power!

Well, those are my top 7 chick-flicks! I hope that you enjoyed it! What are some of your favorite chick-flicks? Do we share any favorites?

-Chelsea