The Celebration Continues!
Well, the wedding might have concluded on Friday night, but that certainly didn’t mean the celebration was over. Here’s a recap of how it all went down on day two in Houston.
A Sometimes Healthy Start to the Day
I started my next full day in Texas just like the first: capitalizing on the delicious breakfast buffet. Again I was one of the only people in the restaurant at the early hour of 7:00. What can I say? The promise of a fresh made-to-order omelet woke me up sans alarm at 6:45 AM. Technically, that was 7:45 NYC time, which I think makes that statement a bit more normal…
I'm a very open-minded buffet eater - I'll eat anything 😉
While I enjoyed my omelet and other random breakfast goodies, I sifted through the latest issue of Health magazine, where I came across this circuit workout. Health is one of my favorite wellness magazines, because I always come away with at least 2-3 useable tips from each issue. I actually tried this workout last night and loved it. I’d definitely recommend this to those looking for a quick/effective but high intensity workout that can be done anywhere.
After breakfast, I enjoyed an iced coffee by the pool while knocking out a little blog reading/writing. It was so quiet and serene that I didn’t even put on music, like usual. Peaceful moments are quite rare in the city that never sleeps, so I wanted to make sure to savor these moments in Texas.
Coffee, Hungry Runner Girl and Peace and Quiet
Hello trees and dirt!
Up next, I squeezed in short run at a park near the hotel. I felt almost obligated to soak up the whole “nature” thing while I was outside of the Big Apple.
Ultimately, I love grass, trees and the “idea” of the wilderness. BUT, at the end of the day, full disclosure, I prefer NYC’s version of wilderness: a giant park full of meadows, trees, trails, ponds, etc. where you’re never more than 2 miles away from a Starbucks or a cab 😉 I heart Central Park.
Where's the Starbucks?
Ironically, when I got back from my run, the power had mysteriously gone out at the hotel. So I had to run some more…up nine flights of stairs. We were invited to lunch at Suji’s husband’s childhood home at the last minute, so I had about 20 minutes to get ready. Luckily the lack of power also meant no running water. Thus, I was ready rather quickly: I “showered” with lots of body spray and perfume – no judgements.
Lunch was the traditional Indian food I had been craving since I got to Texas (although I enjoyed the Mexican food twist from the wedding the night before ;-)). I can’t tell you exactly what I ate, but I know it was flavorful and delicious
A plate full of deliciousness
Some of us also enjoyed adult beverages in the form of margaritas…
Margaritas and Indian food are a perfect combo
Then, we went back to the hotel and relaxed by the pool.
Hello paradise
Before we knew it, it was time to get ready for yet another celebration, the groom’s reception…. (and yes, the power was up and running by then, so I was able to take a proper shower!)
And the Celebration Continues
The groom’s reception is exactly what it sounds like: a reception hosted by the groom’s family. It took place at another hotel in Houston and was Italian-themed. I believe this is because Suji had originally wanted to get married in Italy. I thought it was so thoughtful of her husband’s family to host a themed reception to give Suji a little taste of that Italian wedding 🙂
Dangling champagne glasses
And they certainly succeeded! I wish I had done a better job of taking pictures but the night included a live Italian band, a belly dancer, Italian food and more. Here are a few highlights:
Adorable performance by the bride and groom
Look at that smile! That's Amore!
Morphed into a Michael Jackson dance compilation, which included among other things, a near perfect Thriller performance
Smooth criminals
Lots more dancing
Dance party
Just a bit more drinking
Beer in a wine glass: Sometimes Healthy, Always Classy
Some eating
Chicken tikka, bruschetta and matzoh...love the variety!
Borrowing from a popular Jewish tradition
🙂
Sharing in happy times with good friends
With the beautiful bride
My less than professional picture-taking skills certainly do not do this night, or the weekend justice :-). It was such a pleasure to be able to see one of my closest friends get married and share in another culture’s traditions. I wish I could go to Indian weddings every weekend!
That is so cool that they incorporated both family traditions into one event! What a beautiful wedding..and a stunning bride 🙂