The sky was gray, and it was a bit chilly but not cold enough to make you want to stay inside.
It was a wonderful winter day! And a great way to cap off a great year!
Saturday, December 31, 2011
A Woman's Best Friend Too
We topped the 2011 year off with a walk down by Griggs Reservoir.
The sky was gray, and it was a bit chilly but not cold enough to make you want to stay inside.
The sky was gray, and it was a bit chilly but not cold enough to make you want to stay inside.
Four Christmases
Brian and I both come from divorced families. On any given holiday, there are at least four different houses that are on the chopping block for holiday attendance. To make things even more complicated, we live in Ohio, my Mom lives in Canada, my Dad lives in Germany, and the majority of the rest of my family are in Maryland. (Fortunately, both Brian's Mom and Dad reside in Ohio and are within 30 minutes of us.) This can sometimes make holidays kind of ... tricky.
We try to move our puzzle pieces around very carefully so that we can see everyone equally, and it was no different this year. It is very difficult for us to visit both of my parents and both of Brian's parents on every holiday...make that impossible. (Don't get us wrong, now. We would love to be able to fly to Canada, fly to Germany, fly to Maryland, and hit everyone in between, but it is not that feasible.) We have to do what we can, and fit as many people in the spots that we can.
Therefore, this year, we celebrated many a Christmases! See for yourself:
(Listed in chronological order.)
Christmas #1: with Brian's Grandparents and Aunt Di.
Christmas #2: Christmas in Canada.
Christmases #3 & #4: Skypey skype with my brother and family.
Christmas #5: Christmas with Brian's Mom and family in Ohio (including a visit from Santy Claus himself!).
Christmas #6: Another round of Skype with my Dad in Germany.
Christmas #7: Christmas with Brian's Dad and family in Ohio.
Christmas #8: Last, but certainly not least, Christmas at home.
Sometimes our Christmases can get overwhelming, but what we try never to forget is how many loving family and friends we are surrounded by, and we are so thankful to be able to be with them when we can.
Plus, it never hurts to have some amazing places to visit every now and then!
We try to move our puzzle pieces around very carefully so that we can see everyone equally, and it was no different this year. It is very difficult for us to visit both of my parents and both of Brian's parents on every holiday...make that impossible. (Don't get us wrong, now. We would love to be able to fly to Canada, fly to Germany, fly to Maryland, and hit everyone in between, but it is not that feasible.) We have to do what we can, and fit as many people in the spots that we can.
Therefore, this year, we celebrated many a Christmases! See for yourself:
(Listed in chronological order.)
Christmas #1: with Brian's Grandparents and Aunt Di.
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| From left to right: Jack, Brian, Erin, Aunt Di, Grandma, & Grandpa. |
Christmas #2: Christmas in Canada.
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| From left to right and back to front: Erin, Brian, Scott, Jan, James, Amy, and Marley. |
Christmases #3 & #4: Skypey skype with my brother and family.
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| Pictured: Uncle Kerry & Aunt Tammy |
Christmas #5: Christmas with Brian's Mom and family in Ohio (including a visit from Santy Claus himself!).
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| Again, left to right and back to front: Tim, Erin, Kevin, Brooke, Brian, Erin, Mike, Jill, Audrey, John, Leah, Ben, and Miles. |
Christmas #6: Another round of Skype with my Dad in Germany.
Christmas #7: Christmas with Brian's Dad and family in Ohio.
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| I'm not sure how to even classify this order, so here's everyone: Erin, Brian, Kathy, Andy, Grandpa, Katy, Gina, Mike, and Grandma. |
Christmas #8: Last, but certainly not least, Christmas at home.
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| From left to right: Erin's ornament gift to Brian (which stemmed from one of our first dates) and Brian's ornament gift to Erin. |
Plus, it never hurts to have some amazing places to visit every now and then!
Friday, December 30, 2011
Painting of the Loo
(Not to be confused with Taming of the Shrew.)
When Brian and I moved into our house, the entire house was painted in a sunny, neutral, soft yellow color. Since then, we have had the kitchen, downstairs bathroom, and living room painted. And, since we both had a couple of extra days off for the new year, we decided that we would paint the upstairs bathroom.
And paint we did!
We both are happy with the outcome, though it has taken a couple of days to grow on us! At first we thought we may have gone a bit dark, but the more we step into this private space of ours, the more we feel like it is us rather then the people who lived here before. And that makes us love it more.
Plus, we absolutely love the white accents against the gray walls. The color combo is amazing! Posh, darling, posh!
(Side note: I would just like to say that I think that 80% of the fun of painting is reading the creative paint color names! I had so much fun looking at all the different colors and the names of those colors. So much fun, in fact, that I was looking at colors that we had no interest in considering just so that I could see what they were named! I highly recommend this if you are ever bored and are in need of some creative color inspiration!)
When Brian and I moved into our house, the entire house was painted in a sunny, neutral, soft yellow color. Since then, we have had the kitchen, downstairs bathroom, and living room painted. And, since we both had a couple of extra days off for the new year, we decided that we would paint the upstairs bathroom.
And paint we did!
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| Before. |
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| After! |
We both are happy with the outcome, though it has taken a couple of days to grow on us! At first we thought we may have gone a bit dark, but the more we step into this private space of ours, the more we feel like it is us rather then the people who lived here before. And that makes us love it more.
Plus, we absolutely love the white accents against the gray walls. The color combo is amazing! Posh, darling, posh!
(Side note: I would just like to say that I think that 80% of the fun of painting is reading the creative paint color names! I had so much fun looking at all the different colors and the names of those colors. So much fun, in fact, that I was looking at colors that we had no interest in considering just so that I could see what they were named! I highly recommend this if you are ever bored and are in need of some creative color inspiration!)
Monday, December 26, 2011
When In Rome, Do As the Romans Do
Since we were in Canada, we figured it would only be right to celebrate Boxing Day like true Canadians. Apparently, Boxing Day is a day saved to relax, eat left overs, and go shopping. There are Boxing Day sales galore, and I suppose the amount of leftovers all depend on what was cooked on Christmas and the days leading up to Christmas!
Unfortunately, we only got to celebrate Boxing Day morning in Canada. We did partake in a quick shopping rendezvous (at the airport while we were waiting for our flight to Detroit at the one store that was at the airport...after the guy at security had us chug the 25 ounces of water from the water bottle that I forgot to empty...oops!), and we brought a few leftover cookies and peppermint bark with us but we can't really say that we experienced Boxing Day to its full potential.
We will have to save that bank holiday for another year to fully enjoy, but until then, we'll say that we celebrated Boxing Day ... in Canada!
Unfortunately, we only got to celebrate Boxing Day morning in Canada. We did partake in a quick shopping rendezvous (at the airport while we were waiting for our flight to Detroit at the one store that was at the airport...after the guy at security had us chug the 25 ounces of water from the water bottle that I forgot to empty...oops!), and we brought a few leftover cookies and peppermint bark with us but we can't really say that we experienced Boxing Day to its full potential.
We will have to save that bank holiday for another year to fully enjoy, but until then, we'll say that we celebrated Boxing Day ... in Canada!
Sunday, December 25, 2011
Christmas Canucks
This year Brian and I celebrated our first Canadian Christmas together with my Mom, Stepdad, sister, and brother (Jan, Scott, Amy, and James, respectively) in Ottawa! It was cooold!
We joked that it was so cold that when you spoke out loud the words from your sentences would freeze right in front of you and crumble to the ground like they do in the cartoons! In reality that did not happen, (in Erin's world it did, for those of you who were wondering), but there was one day while we were there that it was literally bone chilling cold! And that happened to be the day that we were walking (a little) around downtown Ottawa!
Despite the cold, however, it snowed steadily the entire time we were there! This was also our first real snow of the season! We haven't really had much snow to play in in Columbus, OH, but Ottawa gave us a taste of what is to come! The snow fell perfectly and we ended up having a beautiful white Christmas and a good 6" or so when we left. We also got to experience the superior snow removal services that are mandatory on Canadian streets. The Canadians don't waste any time and really know how to clear some snow! I suppose they have to with an average of 87" of snow per year, eh?!
Speaking of 'eh's', the very first legit Canadian that we spoke to when we got to Canada was the employee in the Canadian customs area. The very first thing he said to us was, "first time in Canada, eh?" Brian and I both looked at each other and smiled. (That was before we were interrogated...) Yes, folks, the Canadian 'eh' stereotype is true. But in a very good way!
We had a wonderful time celebrating Christmas with our presently Canuck family! The house is amazing, the city is beautiful, the food was delicious, the company was fantastic. We could not have asked for more, unless, of course, we had our entire family together! Nonetheless, it was wonderful to celebrate with everyone that was there. Plus, we got to have a few Skype Christmases with everyone that could not physically be in Canada!
We hope you and yours had a wonderful Christmas too!
We joked that it was so cold that when you spoke out loud the words from your sentences would freeze right in front of you and crumble to the ground like they do in the cartoons! In reality that did not happen, (in Erin's world it did, for those of you who were wondering), but there was one day while we were there that it was literally bone chilling cold! And that happened to be the day that we were walking (a little) around downtown Ottawa!
Despite the cold, however, it snowed steadily the entire time we were there! This was also our first real snow of the season! We haven't really had much snow to play in in Columbus, OH, but Ottawa gave us a taste of what is to come! The snow fell perfectly and we ended up having a beautiful white Christmas and a good 6" or so when we left. We also got to experience the superior snow removal services that are mandatory on Canadian streets. The Canadians don't waste any time and really know how to clear some snow! I suppose they have to with an average of 87" of snow per year, eh?!
Speaking of 'eh's', the very first legit Canadian that we spoke to when we got to Canada was the employee in the Canadian customs area. The very first thing he said to us was, "first time in Canada, eh?" Brian and I both looked at each other and smiled. (That was before we were interrogated...) Yes, folks, the Canadian 'eh' stereotype is true. But in a very good way!
We had a wonderful time celebrating Christmas with our presently Canuck family! The house is amazing, the city is beautiful, the food was delicious, the company was fantastic. We could not have asked for more, unless, of course, we had our entire family together! Nonetheless, it was wonderful to celebrate with everyone that was there. Plus, we got to have a few Skype Christmases with everyone that could not physically be in Canada!
We hope you and yours had a wonderful Christmas too!
Friday, December 23, 2011
659 Miles Closer to the North Pole
Dear Santa,
We've arrived safe and sound in Ottawa, Canada where we will be spending the Christmas holiday with our family. We know that you have a very busy travel day coming up and are happy to be a bit closer to you so that we can cut some of your travel time in half - you can make one stop instead of two now! You know, making your life a little easier from one Santa and Mrs. Claus to another! Merry Christmas!
Yours Truly,
Brian and Erin (the 'Brian and Erin' on the nice list, that is.)
We've arrived safe and sound in Ottawa, Canada where we will be spending the Christmas holiday with our family. We know that you have a very busy travel day coming up and are happy to be a bit closer to you so that we can cut some of your travel time in half - you can make one stop instead of two now! You know, making your life a little easier from one Santa and Mrs. Claus to another! Merry Christmas!
Yours Truly,
Brian and Erin (the 'Brian and Erin' on the nice list, that is.)
Sunday, December 18, 2011
Date Nut Pin - WHAT?!
Growing up, my Grandma Lauchman, my Dad's Mom, who lived in North Carolina, always made a boat load of cookies around Christmas - chocolate chip, chocolate with a chocolate icing, oatmeal, date nut pinwheels, etc. You name it and there was a tupperware of it hidden somewhere!
Yesterday, I had the [not so] bright idea of making some date nut pinwheels (emphasis on the 'wh'). Brian and I both agreed that date nut pinwheels are one of our favs, so since we had a relatively low key weekend I thought why not!?
I gathered up all of the ingredients from the grocery, got home, and got to cookin'. (I wasn't aware this was a multi-process cookie. I was thinking along the lines of homemade chocolate chip...) I made the date nut filling and got started on the dough. This is where the date nut pinwheel process started rolling downhill.
First, our sifter kept getting clogged, so Brian sifted. Then, I realized I needed a wooded dough roller - something that neither Brian nor I have handy around the house, so I ran to Bed, Bath, and Beyond to get a roller. Finally, I took the dough out of the fridge to roll it our with our fancy new roller and it hadn't hardened. ?? How was I supposed to roll, mold, and spread the date nut filling in the liquidy dough?! I wasn't.
I tried to add flour, I tried to leave it in the fridge for a bit longer, I tried to read the directions to see where I went wrong...
...All to no avail.
At 10:00 pm last night I was ready to throw in thedough towel and just forget I had even tried to make these infamous cookies. That was until my genius husband came up with the brilliant idea to get some pre-made cookie dough, add the date nut filling (which was nearly perfect, by the way), and make date nut pin-cookies!
DATE NUT PIN-COOKIES!? Of course! Why didn't I think of that?!
We threw out the dough. I didn't even want to see it when I got up this morning, and we went to the store, grabbed a package of snickerdoodle mix and a package of oatmeal cookie mix, and made our date nut pin-cookies.
They aren't date nut pinwheels. That's a tough cookie to beat, but they're alright. The snickerdoodle mix beats the oatmeal cookie mix (by a long shot if you ask me), but, like I said, they're alright. Plus, we were able to check off one of the quintessential holiday festivities - cookie making!
We've developed a newfound respect for each future date nut pinwheel that we devour. That is a lengthy cookie process!
Yesterday, I had the [not so] bright idea of making some date nut pinwheels (emphasis on the 'wh'). Brian and I both agreed that date nut pinwheels are one of our favs, so since we had a relatively low key weekend I thought why not!?
I gathered up all of the ingredients from the grocery, got home, and got to cookin'. (I wasn't aware this was a multi-process cookie. I was thinking along the lines of homemade chocolate chip...) I made the date nut filling and got started on the dough. This is where the date nut pinwheel process started rolling downhill.
First, our sifter kept getting clogged, so Brian sifted. Then, I realized I needed a wooded dough roller - something that neither Brian nor I have handy around the house, so I ran to Bed, Bath, and Beyond to get a roller. Finally, I took the dough out of the fridge to roll it our with our fancy new roller and it hadn't hardened. ?? How was I supposed to roll, mold, and spread the date nut filling in the liquidy dough?! I wasn't.
I tried to add flour, I tried to leave it in the fridge for a bit longer, I tried to read the directions to see where I went wrong...
...All to no avail.
At 10:00 pm last night I was ready to throw in the
DATE NUT PIN-COOKIES!? Of course! Why didn't I think of that?!
We threw out the dough. I didn't even want to see it when I got up this morning, and we went to the store, grabbed a package of snickerdoodle mix and a package of oatmeal cookie mix, and made our date nut pin-cookies.
They aren't date nut pinwheels. That's a tough cookie to beat, but they're alright. The snickerdoodle mix beats the oatmeal cookie mix (by a long shot if you ask me), but, like I said, they're alright. Plus, we were able to check off one of the quintessential holiday festivities - cookie making!
We've developed a newfound respect for each future date nut pinwheel that we devour. That is a lengthy cookie process!
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| A mini date nut adventure! |
Saturday, December 17, 2011
Let it Snow!
It's snowing!!!
We are officially having our first snow of the season, and it is amazing! We haven't seen flakes like this for months, and while "little or no accumulation" is expected, it is still so wonderful to watch the snow fall!
Happy Christmas!
We are officially having our first snow of the season, and it is amazing! We haven't seen flakes like this for months, and while "little or no accumulation" is expected, it is still so wonderful to watch the snow fall!
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| Snow on the spruce. |
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| Jack is dreaming of a white Christmas! |
Happy Christmas!
Thursday, December 15, 2011
Christmas Is In The Air
On more than one occasion this holiday season, I have been in a store...shopping. On more than one occasion, I have heard Christmas songs being played throughout the store...typical for this time of year. On more than one occasion, I've caught someone bust out the lyrics to the latest Christmas song currently being played over the store speakers...And I'm not talking about a little hum to one's self...
...I'm talking about a straight up bust out the lyrics like you're auditioning to be the next American Idol...and it cracks me up!
I'm not going to lie, I probably have done it once or twice too (and made someone's day with my amazing singing voice, no doubt!), but it is just so funny to be perusing the store aisles, shelves, racks, etc. and have a complete stranger, no more than four or five steps away from you, start singing! The best songs are the ones with the lively beats: Wonderful Christmastime, Last Christmas, Rockin' Around The Christmas Tree, All I Want For Christmas is You (the Mariah Carey version), Feliz Navidad, Grandmaw Got Run Over By A Reindeer (this song must be accompanied by a leg slap and knee lift...repeated three times), Jingle Bell Rock, etc; you get the point.
Slower Christmas songs are sometimes just as funny because said singing person truly believes that they sound like the musical artist presently being broadcasted! Sometimes you can stretch someawful hilarious notes out of your vocal cords that are not normally used outside of the shower.
This is just one of the joys of the Christmas season that makes me smile! You can tell that we are definitely getting close to Christmas!
Christmas [music] is literally in the air!
...I'm talking about a straight up bust out the lyrics like you're auditioning to be the next American Idol...and it cracks me up!
I'm not going to lie, I probably have done it once or twice too (and made someone's day with my amazing singing voice, no doubt!), but it is just so funny to be perusing the store aisles, shelves, racks, etc. and have a complete stranger, no more than four or five steps away from you, start singing! The best songs are the ones with the lively beats: Wonderful Christmastime, Last Christmas, Rockin' Around The Christmas Tree, All I Want For Christmas is You (the Mariah Carey version), Feliz Navidad, Grandmaw Got Run Over By A Reindeer (this song must be accompanied by a leg slap and knee lift...repeated three times), Jingle Bell Rock, etc; you get the point.
Slower Christmas songs are sometimes just as funny because said singing person truly believes that they sound like the musical artist presently being broadcasted! Sometimes you can stretch some
This is just one of the joys of the Christmas season that makes me smile! You can tell that we are definitely getting close to Christmas!
Christmas [music] is literally in the air!
Saturday, December 10, 2011
Snug As A Bug in A Rug
We added our navy blue "winter" blanket on our bed last night. It was supposed to be the coldest it has been all season.
When we woke up this morning, we were warm, comfy, and cozy! (And, as an added bonus, it was Saturday morning, so we got to sleep in!) We were perfectly snug as a bug in a rug! Make thattwo three bugs in a rug!
Happy Winter!
When we woke up this morning, we were warm, comfy, and cozy! (And, as an added bonus, it was Saturday morning, so we got to sleep in!) We were perfectly snug as a bug in a rug! Make that
Happy Winter!
Thursday, December 8, 2011
Tiffany Blue
No matter what you order from Tiffany & Co. it will come dressed in a beautiful Tiffany blue box with a perfect white bow. Our order was no exception.
We had a credit to use from our wedding and ordered these amazing crystal votives. We thought they'd be the perfect addition to our house and a wonderful reminder of our August 6, 2010 wedding day. When we received the shipping box, we opened it up to find four gorgeous Tiffany blue boxes. (They were almost too pretty to open!) As we opened each box, we found our two large and two small crystal votives securely packaged and more beautiful in person than ever. We instantly tested them out with our tea light candles, just to see how exquisite the light reflecting off of the perfect Tiffany crystal would be, and it was just fabulous!
We had a credit to use from our wedding and ordered these amazing crystal votives. We thought they'd be the perfect addition to our house and a wonderful reminder of our August 6, 2010 wedding day. When we received the shipping box, we opened it up to find four gorgeous Tiffany blue boxes. (They were almost too pretty to open!) As we opened each box, we found our two large and two small crystal votives securely packaged and more beautiful in person than ever. We instantly tested them out with our tea light candles, just to see how exquisite the light reflecting off of the perfect Tiffany crystal would be, and it was just fabulous!
Tiffany & Co. made us feel beautiful and special. They've successfully branded their name and have reminded us of a few of the finer things in life! What a special treat!
Wednesday, December 7, 2011
The Holiday Bunch
Last Saturday, Brian and I starting stuffing our envelopes with our holiday cards. In between Saturday and Tuesday, they had all be addressed and sent!
And now, for the moment you've all been waiting for...
[Drum roll, please!]
The unveiling of our 2011 Holiday card:
Taa Daa!
(And, yes, we are wondering how we will be topping this next year!)
For your viewing pleasure, we have included this album of "honorably mentioned" photos - some of which did not make our card cover!
Merry Christmas to all!
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| Prime example of our 'stuff' process: sign, stuff, stamp. Voilà ! |
While we were stuffing, our puppy lounged on the couch, waiting patiently for us to finish so that we could go out and play ball!
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| Cutest.Puppy.Ever. |
And now, for the moment you've all been waiting for...
[Drum roll, please!]
The unveiling of our 2011 Holiday card:
Taa Daa!
(And, yes, we are wondering how we will be topping this next year!)
For your viewing pleasure, we have included this album of "honorably mentioned" photos - some of which did not make our card cover!
Merry Christmas to all!
Sunday, December 4, 2011
All Good In Da Hood
We just came to say hello! It feels like it’s been a while since Brian and I have updated our lives in this bloggerific world. It’s not that we haven’t had anything exciting to say or anything exciting to do – we’ve actually been quite busy, but, to be quite honest, we’ve actually had a pretty normal (for us), low-key week, despite it being busy! We could potentially be recovering from a crazy (read: whirlwind of fun) turkey holiday, but we’ve enjoyed our down time! We’ve had Brian’s Dad - Andy, Stepmom - Kathy, and brother – Brent, over for dinner, met up with Brian’s Mom - Mary, and Stepdad - Tom, for dinner (on two separate occasions, of course), filled out all of our Christmas cards (yes, we I like to add a personal touch) which we will be sending out tomorrow (a lucky few – like, 75% of them - went out yesterday), went Christmas shopping, tidied up the yard and the house (kind of) in preparation for Old Man Winter to grace us with his presence, spent time lounging (read: rough housing) with the pooch, and kept each other entertained with our usual silly antics! You know, just a typical week in the lives of B & E (and B) (and J)!
We hope all is good in all of your hoods as well!
Happy December!
We hope all is good in all of your hoods as well!
Happy December!
Sunday, November 27, 2011
The Gathering Place
This Thanksgiving was a real treat for Brian and me. Because the fam-diddly moved to Canada, and we all aren't going to be able to get together for Christmas, we decided that we would all get together for Thanksgiving - the meeting point being none other than Columbus, Ohio! Travis and Shanel drove in from Maryland, Amy flew in from Maryland, and Mom, Scott, and James drove into town from Canada. Everyone landed safely at the casa, and it was simply fantastic to have a full house!
There's something so amazing about the holidays! We were able to celebrate together with Brian's family for Thanksgiving and it was wonderful to wake up every morning and see so many familiar faces! We laughed so much this Thanksgiving! We cooked, we ate, we played games, we made ornaments, we did a little bit of shopping, we enjoyed our company, and we had many, many things to be thankful for. I cannot speak for everyone but just having our family together was a huge one for me. It means so much to me that everyone is comfortable here in our town, at our house, and we are able to all have such a good time together. It is truly a great feeling.
In addition to the many thanks that we have for our family, we are also thankful to have such an accommodating kitchen! Having an additional six people in the house was so easy thanks to our wonderful gathering place. We were all able to huddle around together, drink, enjoy, and laugh - experience what the holidays are all about!
We hope you and your families had a wonderful Thanksgiving too! Enjoy our photos below!
There's something so amazing about the holidays! We were able to celebrate together with Brian's family for Thanksgiving and it was wonderful to wake up every morning and see so many familiar faces! We laughed so much this Thanksgiving! We cooked, we ate, we played games, we made ornaments, we did a little bit of shopping, we enjoyed our company, and we had many, many things to be thankful for. I cannot speak for everyone but just having our family together was a huge one for me. It means so much to me that everyone is comfortable here in our town, at our house, and we are able to all have such a good time together. It is truly a great feeling.
In addition to the many thanks that we have for our family, we are also thankful to have such an accommodating kitchen! Having an additional six people in the house was so easy thanks to our wonderful gathering place. We were all able to huddle around together, drink, enjoy, and laugh - experience what the holidays are all about!
We hope you and your families had a wonderful Thanksgiving too! Enjoy our photos below!
Friday, November 25, 2011
What is Round, Glittery and Sparkly?!
This year, we had the (some would argue "not-so") bright idea to make some homemade Christmas ornaments. All of us girls: Mom, Shanel, Amy, and I are a pretty creative bunch, so we figured we could round up some supplies, conjure up some great ideas in our noggins, and get to ornament making.
Um...way easier said than done!
Making homemade ornaments is not as cushy as it appears. We tried to follow a few different types of DIY ornament styles that we found online and we tried to come up with a few of our own, but we may have to take another approach next go round. It was hard to work with glass. It was hard to wait for paint to dry. It was hard to manipulate the craft supplies that we had into small little glass balls. It was hard. I think we ended up with more glitter, sparkles, and paint on ourselves than on or in our ornaments, but we pressed on...
...We have ornaments, we don't have much consistency, but we have ornaments!
I think the key to making homemade ornaments is to find two or three that the group likes, grab the supplies needed to make those select few, and follow directions together. (Including the preparation that may need to happen beforehand - like washing the ornaments and letting them dry!)
Even though making the ornaments was more difficult than we had originally planned, we still had fun! And I, for one, won't necessarily rule out ornament making in the future... I'll just plan it a little better!
Um...way easier said than done!
Making homemade ornaments is not as cushy as it appears. We tried to follow a few different types of DIY ornament styles that we found online and we tried to come up with a few of our own, but we may have to take another approach next go round. It was hard to work with glass. It was hard to wait for paint to dry. It was hard to manipulate the craft supplies that we had into small little glass balls. It was hard. I think we ended up with more glitter, sparkles, and paint on ourselves than on or in our ornaments, but we pressed on...
...We have ornaments, we don't have much consistency, but we have ornaments!
I think the key to making homemade ornaments is to find two or three that the group likes, grab the supplies needed to make those select few, and follow directions together. (Including the preparation that may need to happen beforehand - like washing the ornaments and letting them dry!)
Even though making the ornaments was more difficult than we had originally planned, we still had fun! And I, for one, won't necessarily rule out ornament making in the future... I'll just plan it a little better!
Monday, November 21, 2011
All of the Lights
Though not officially turned on (we'll wait until after Thanksgiving), our Christmas lights are 100% installed and ready to shine!
It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas!
Thursday, November 17, 2011
How Will We Top This?
OMG.
We made our holiday cards tonight!
Every year we wonder how will we top last year's card. And every year we pull it out of nowhere and end up doing it.
This year's is no exception. We cannot wait to send you all our holiday greetings.
Be prepared to laugh, possibly cry, and definitely enjoy the holidays!
(We would love to give you a sneak peak, but we simply cannot do it. However, until you officially receive our 2011 holiday greeting, feel free to peruse our holiday greetings of Christmas' past:
Christmas Cards Throughout The Years.)
We made our holiday cards tonight!
Every year we wonder how will we top last year's card. And every year we pull it out of nowhere and end up doing it.
This year's is no exception. We cannot wait to send you all our holiday greetings.
Be prepared to laugh, possibly cry, and definitely enjoy the holidays!
(We would love to give you a sneak peak, but we simply cannot do it. However, until you officially receive our 2011 holiday greeting, feel free to peruse our holiday greetings of Christmas' past:
Christmas Cards Throughout The Years.)
Wednesday, November 16, 2011
College Girls
I met Elaine in the Fall of 2000. We were both freshman Hokies, we were both from Maryland, we were both residing in the same suite; we became fast friends! Elaine and I are part of the amazing Hokie Four connection: Brandi, Shalu, Elaine, and myself. We all shared many great moments throughout college - classes (History of Architecture!? and Elaine Kwan by Elaine Kwan), parties (Delta Chi), spring breaks (Muuuurrrddeerrr in Mesopotaaamia! and, "That is my British accent!") - just to name a few! We've also shared many great moments after college. We all headed back north to the homeland (read: Maryland), except Brandi and I were just across the border in Northern Virginia. Brandi, Shalu, Elaine, and I were all in close proximity where we could all get together for dinner for our girls nights. They were nights we all looked forward to, and we will all continue to look forward to those nights!
At one of those special girls nights, we all kind of had ... news. Elaine was headed out west to Los Angeles, California; Shalu was going back to school which required a move south to Miami, FL and a couple semesters in Dominica; Brandi was moving north to Maryland; and I was headed west to Columbus, Ohio. Our Hokie Four was dividing, our girls nights would become a bit fewer and farther in between, but we decided that no distance would ever come between us. And, to this day, no distance has!
This past week, Elaine had a business trip to Fairborn, Ohio. Now, Fairborn, OH is just over an hour away from Columbus, OH. (For the record, Los Angeles, CA is just over 36 hours from Columbus, OH.) I was not going to miss this opportunity to meet up with Elaine! We met half way for dinner at The Red Brick Tavern in Lafayette, OH! It was a quiet, dark, small town, and The Red Brick Tavern was very old - over 150 years old! We both agreed that the building and interior was kind of creepy, BUT they did serve warm cinnamon rolls which [somewhat] made up for the eerie interior.
It was such a special treat to meet up with Elaine...in Ohio...on a work night! As usual, it was amazing to catch up, it was amazing to laugh together, it was amazing to be in each other's presence. Her company is truly top notch! And now we have yet another experience to add to our list together! ♥ you, Lainey!!
At one of those special girls nights, we all kind of had ... news. Elaine was headed out west to Los Angeles, California; Shalu was going back to school which required a move south to Miami, FL and a couple semesters in Dominica; Brandi was moving north to Maryland; and I was headed west to Columbus, Ohio. Our Hokie Four was dividing, our girls nights would become a bit fewer and farther in between, but we decided that no distance would ever come between us. And, to this day, no distance has!
This past week, Elaine had a business trip to Fairborn, Ohio. Now, Fairborn, OH is just over an hour away from Columbus, OH. (For the record, Los Angeles, CA is just over 36 hours from Columbus, OH.) I was not going to miss this opportunity to meet up with Elaine! We met half way for dinner at The Red Brick Tavern in Lafayette, OH! It was a quiet, dark, small town, and The Red Brick Tavern was very old - over 150 years old! We both agreed that the building and interior was kind of creepy, BUT they did serve warm cinnamon rolls which [somewhat] made up for the eerie interior.
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| Can you see the "ambience" caught by the antique decorating?! |
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| This was one of the few lights in downtown Lafayette, OH. |
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| We even signed the guest book at the RBT! |
It was such a special treat to meet up with Elaine...in Ohio...on a work night! As usual, it was amazing to catch up, it was amazing to laugh together, it was amazing to be in each other's presence. Her company is truly top notch! And now we have yet another experience to add to our list together! ♥ you, Lainey!!
Monday, November 14, 2011
The Dog in the Closet
Jack thinks we keep a dog that looks just like him in our downstairs coat closet. Every time we open the closet door he'll run over to it, gaze at his very own reflection, and bark...endlessly, until we close the door and lock our other dog back up.
We explain that it actually is himself that he is barking at. It never works.
We always ask him to use his inside bark. That also never works.
So, without further ado, meet our dog that lives in our downstairs closet, Jack II:
...He was going so crazy barking at this "other dog" that the rest of the pictures are blurry...
...Crazy pup.
We explain that it actually is himself that he is barking at. It never works.
We always ask him to use his inside bark. That also never works.
So, without further ado, meet our dog that lives in our downstairs closet, Jack II:
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| Jack wonders, "what the...?" |
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| A grumble soon follows... |
...He was going so crazy barking at this "other dog" that the rest of the pictures are blurry...
...Crazy pup.
Sunday, November 13, 2011
All is Full of Love
It was Christmas Eve two years ago. I was on a flight to Baltimore, MD from Columbus, OH to spend the Christmas holiday with my family. Andrea was on that very same flight with a connecting flight in Baltimore to New Hampshire to spend the holiday with her family. She sat next to me and started off the conversation over the book I was then reading: The Five Love Languages by Gary Chapman. We talked the whole flight, and when we departed we exchanged information and decided to get together for dinner after the holidays.
Since then, we have gotten together many times! She is a really amazing person, and it has been truly a pleasure building our friendship! We were fortunate enough to have her attend our wedding ceremony in August 2010. We were also fortunate to attend her wedding this past weekend, and when I say it was beautiful and amazing and full of love, I mean it was absolutely beautiful and incredibly amazing and SO full of love! It was evident by the amount of joy in the air that Andrea and her now husband, Doug, are surrounded by so many loving families and friends. Brian and I both agreed that their ceremony was one of the most sentimental and heart felt ones that we've been to. The reception was equally as beautiful and full of fun! (You'll have to check out some of our best photo strips yet from her photo booth in the album below! We were quite impressed!) We were so honored to be a part of such a wonderful day, and we are so happy for Andrea and Doug!
And may you both always remember the following from Mama T:
“People are often unreasonable and self-centered. Forgive them anyway.
If you are kind, people may accuse you of ulterior motives. Be kind anyway.
If you are honest, people may cheat you. Be honest anyway.
If you find happiness, people may be jealous. Be happy anyway.
The good you do today may be forgotten tomorrow. Do good anyway.
Give the world the best you have and it may never be enough. Give your best anyway.
For you see, in the end, it is between you and God. It was never between you and them anyway.”
Congratulations you two! We ♥ you!
Since then, we have gotten together many times! She is a really amazing person, and it has been truly a pleasure building our friendship! We were fortunate enough to have her attend our wedding ceremony in August 2010. We were also fortunate to attend her wedding this past weekend, and when I say it was beautiful and amazing and full of love, I mean it was absolutely beautiful and incredibly amazing and SO full of love! It was evident by the amount of joy in the air that Andrea and her now husband, Doug, are surrounded by so many loving families and friends. Brian and I both agreed that their ceremony was one of the most sentimental and heart felt ones that we've been to. The reception was equally as beautiful and full of fun! (You'll have to check out some of our best photo strips yet from her photo booth in the album below! We were quite impressed!) We were so honored to be a part of such a wonderful day, and we are so happy for Andrea and Doug!
And may you both always remember the following from Mama T:
“People are often unreasonable and self-centered. Forgive them anyway.
If you are kind, people may accuse you of ulterior motives. Be kind anyway.
If you are honest, people may cheat you. Be honest anyway.
If you find happiness, people may be jealous. Be happy anyway.
The good you do today may be forgotten tomorrow. Do good anyway.
Give the world the best you have and it may never be enough. Give your best anyway.
For you see, in the end, it is between you and God. It was never between you and them anyway.”
Congratulations you two! We ♥ you!
Friday, November 11, 2011
Thirty Years Ago
Thirty years ago, my Mom was nearly three months pregnant with yours truly; Brian was nearly five and a half, causing trouble somewhere no doubt. Nonetheless, it was then that my mommy dearest decided to undertake a very special, very time consuming, very loving art project for her first born: a beautiful, yarn wool embroidered canvas with numbers one to ten and corresponding objects to account for each number. At one point, it hung in my room. I remember it not hanging but being hand held. I remember going through each of the numbers, tracing the perfect stitching with my little fingers, and I remember the "seven hearts" being my favorite. It is a treasured masterpiece that I hold very dear to my heart.
This special canvas has travelled with me to different homes, to college, to real life outside of college, and all the way to Ohio into our new home. Throughout all of these years, it has always reminded me of a very special part of my childhood, and I hope it continues to do so. Unfortunately, throughout all of these years, it has also undergone some moth damage. Those little buggers. Some of the yarn was eaten, some of it was frayed from partial snacking, and a few weeks ago I decided to see what could be done to repair such a treasure. Three shops, five phone calls, and two emails later I found someone who could repair my canvas. And repair is what she did! Nine different colors of yarn wool were damaged, and the woman who worked with me, Shayna, repaired them all!
I am truly delighted that I was able to get the broken yarn strands fixed. I cannot put words or a price tag on how meaningful this canvas is to me. I am so happy to be able to keep a little bit of childhood with me wherever I go, and I am so thankful to have such an amazing, loving, wonderful Mom!
(For the record, I would have been 100% content if nothing could have been done to repair the stitching. Just having this canvas art means more to me than anything. Fortunately, it was able to be repaired, and I could not be happier!)
PS: Happy 11/11/11!
This special canvas has travelled with me to different homes, to college, to real life outside of college, and all the way to Ohio into our new home. Throughout all of these years, it has always reminded me of a very special part of my childhood, and I hope it continues to do so. Unfortunately, throughout all of these years, it has also undergone some moth damage. Those little buggers. Some of the yarn was eaten, some of it was frayed from partial snacking, and a few weeks ago I decided to see what could be done to repair such a treasure. Three shops, five phone calls, and two emails later I found someone who could repair my canvas. And repair is what she did! Nine different colors of yarn wool were damaged, and the woman who worked with me, Shayna, repaired them all!
I am truly delighted that I was able to get the broken yarn strands fixed. I cannot put words or a price tag on how meaningful this canvas is to me. I am so happy to be able to keep a little bit of childhood with me wherever I go, and I am so thankful to have such an amazing, loving, wonderful Mom!
(For the record, I would have been 100% content if nothing could have been done to repair the stitching. Just having this canvas art means more to me than anything. Fortunately, it was able to be repaired, and I could not be happier!)
PS: Happy 11/11/11!
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
Above the Clouds
I would encourage you to remember that even when skies are gray and looming overhead, the sun is always shining above them; the warm, glowing light will shine through.
It always does! (♥ ya, Amy!)
Thursday, November 3, 2011
Lost and Freakin' Found
Where do I begin??
I have had a tumultuous couple months with all things electronic and valuable. Nearly two months ago, I used my handy, dandy Garmin which has [most of the time] successfully helped me navigate around central Ohio. The last time I remembered using my Garmin was from Powell, OH heading to New Albany, OH. I was going to meet Brian, Matt, and Brian's parents for dinner at The Cheesecake Factory. (Yeah, that long ago.) When I went to look for my Garmin just three short days afterwards, it was no where to be found. No where.
I scoured my car, I called The Cheesecake Factory, I called Easton, I turned the house upside down (and my purse, if you were wondering), I looked in Brian's car, I looked in my car again, I even looked in our laundry...
...And I still had not found my Garmin. I thought for sure that it had fallen out of my car, unbeknownst to me somehow, and was scooped up and taken to a new home. (I secretly waited for it to show up in the mail since our "home" button is our address, but it didn't.) I may or may not have complained daily about needing a Garmin. While I am confident about getting around town, I very often need to find things in areas that I don't know, like a post office for example, and that's where Mr. G would come into the picture. That was then.
Two months later, when Travis and Shanel were in town, I shared my unfortunate news. On Sunday, while we were looking for something else, my brother asked me if Brian had a Garmin too. I explained that Brian has the map thingy in the front of his car that you can put addresses in. (A GPS system, for those of you who don't know what a map thingy is.) Travis then pointed to a Garmin that had mysteriously appeared wedged up underneath the passenger's seat. IT WAS MY GARMIN! Amazing! I swore I had looked in Brian's car. Brian looked in his car too, but it took a special pair of eyes to spot Mr. G, and it was a wonderful discovery! (Thank you, T!)
Well, on Saturday right after I had used my camera to take a video of the last play of the Buckeye game, we charged the field in excitement after the win. I slipped my camera into my unsecure pocket and jumped the rail. That was the last time I had my camera that night.
We ran across the field, hootin' and hollerin' no doubt, and celebrated the victory. Five minutes later, smack dab in the middle of singing Carmen Ohio, I realized that said camera was no longer in my untrusty pocket. Son of a...
(Travis hadn't spotted my Garmin at this point, and I was beginnning to seriously doubt my ability to be an adult and cherish my valuables.)
We retraced our steps; there were so many people. I thought for sure if my camera wasn't picked up, it was most definitely crushed by the herd of people that ran across the field after the game. I was bummed, but knowing that Travis and Shanel had a camera made me feel better. We spread the word to the right people that I had lost my camera and headed out of the stadium.
On Tuesday, Brian received a picture text message with an image of Brian, Travis, Shanel, and me on my camera screen with the text, "is this what you are looking for?!" IT WAS MY CAMERA! Of the 105,411 people (or something crazy like that) who attended the game, one of them was a good samaritan and turned my camera in. Mine was one of only four. Four! There are so many responsible people out there.
I was again extremely thankful to have been reunited with my camera. I literally use it on a daily basis, and it feels so good to be complete with all of my electronics. Thanks so much to Pang who kept an eye out on the lost camera stash and spotted mine. If it weren't for these two fine gentlemen - Travis and Pang - I would be out a Garmin and a camera. I am an expensive date.
And, for the record, I've cut myself off from any "new" electronics until I can become a bit more responsible...
I have had a tumultuous couple months with all things electronic and valuable. Nearly two months ago, I used my handy, dandy Garmin which has [most of the time] successfully helped me navigate around central Ohio. The last time I remembered using my Garmin was from Powell, OH heading to New Albany, OH. I was going to meet Brian, Matt, and Brian's parents for dinner at The Cheesecake Factory. (Yeah, that long ago.) When I went to look for my Garmin just three short days afterwards, it was no where to be found. No where.
I scoured my car, I called The Cheesecake Factory, I called Easton, I turned the house upside down (and my purse, if you were wondering), I looked in Brian's car, I looked in my car again, I even looked in our laundry...
...And I still had not found my Garmin. I thought for sure that it had fallen out of my car, unbeknownst to me somehow, and was scooped up and taken to a new home. (I secretly waited for it to show up in the mail since our "home" button is our address, but it didn't.) I may or may not have complained daily about needing a Garmin. While I am confident about getting around town, I very often need to find things in areas that I don't know, like a post office for example, and that's where Mr. G would come into the picture. That was then.
Two months later, when Travis and Shanel were in town, I shared my unfortunate news. On Sunday, while we were looking for something else, my brother asked me if Brian had a Garmin too. I explained that Brian has the map thingy in the front of his car that you can put addresses in. (A GPS system, for those of you who don't know what a map thingy is.) Travis then pointed to a Garmin that had mysteriously appeared wedged up underneath the passenger's seat. IT WAS MY GARMIN! Amazing! I swore I had looked in Brian's car. Brian looked in his car too, but it took a special pair of eyes to spot Mr. G, and it was a wonderful discovery! (Thank you, T!)
Well, on Saturday right after I had used my camera to take a video of the last play of the Buckeye game, we charged the field in excitement after the win. I slipped my camera into my unsecure pocket and jumped the rail. That was the last time I had my camera that night.
We ran across the field, hootin' and hollerin' no doubt, and celebrated the victory. Five minutes later, smack dab in the middle of singing Carmen Ohio, I realized that said camera was no longer in my untrusty pocket. Son of a...
(Travis hadn't spotted my Garmin at this point, and I was beginnning to seriously doubt my ability to be an adult and cherish my valuables.)
We retraced our steps; there were so many people. I thought for sure if my camera wasn't picked up, it was most definitely crushed by the herd of people that ran across the field after the game. I was bummed, but knowing that Travis and Shanel had a camera made me feel better. We spread the word to the right people that I had lost my camera and headed out of the stadium.
On Tuesday, Brian received a picture text message with an image of Brian, Travis, Shanel, and me on my camera screen with the text, "is this what you are looking for?!" IT WAS MY CAMERA! Of the 105,411 people (or something crazy like that) who attended the game, one of them was a good samaritan and turned my camera in. Mine was one of only four. Four! There are so many responsible people out there.
I was again extremely thankful to have been reunited with my camera. I literally use it on a daily basis, and it feels so good to be complete with all of my electronics. Thanks so much to Pang who kept an eye out on the lost camera stash and spotted mine. If it weren't for these two fine gentlemen - Travis and Pang - I would be out a Garmin and a camera. I am an expensive date.
And, for the record, I've cut myself off from any "new" electronics until I can become a bit more responsible...
Monday, October 31, 2011
Little Puppy Lou Who
Just turned two who!
Happy 2nd birthday to our sweet doggie!
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| He was way more excited than this! |
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| How's that for a stash of presents!? |
Happy 2nd birthday to our sweet doggie!
Sunday, October 30, 2011
Hang On Sloopy!
Sloopy hang on! O-H-I-O!
How do I begin about the weekend?! It.was.incredible! For many reasons! The main one being that my brother, Travis, and sister-in-law, Shanel, trekked out to Ohio to spend some quality time with us on our turf! Just being together was the best part of the entire weekend, but, as you know how we like to do it when we have guests in town, we also got down with some trade mark Columbus activities!
On Friday night when Travis and Shanel arrived, we headed to downtown Columbus to catch a glimpse of Highball Halloween. We stopped here for the first time together last year with my Grandparents, and we had to keep up the tradition! We once again saw some amazing (and ridiculous) costumes! But that is part of what makes Highball Halloween so fun!
On Saturday, after relaxing at the house (read: sleeping in) we grabbed lunch at Katzinger's deli and headed down to the tailgate to get ready for the Ohio State Buckeyes to take on the Wisconsin Badgers. What a fantastic game! We were bundled up and sat in a sea of scarlet while we watched the Buckeyes wallop the Badgers! It was a very, very exciting game, and after an unbelievable victory everyone rushed on the field to celebrate and bask in all the Buckeye glory! Some have even said it was the most exciting game they have ever been to in The Shoe. (Brian ranks it in his top five for your reference.) After the Buckeye game, we carried on downtown as usual after Ohio State football games and stopped at the Varsity Club to meet up with [some of] of the tailgate crew, where we also basked in the Buckeye glory!
Finally, on Sunday, we enjoyed each other's company while we made a big breakfast* together, popped into Jeni's for a quick sampling of Ohio ice cream**, and dropped my bro and sis-in-law back off at the airport.
We cannot begin to explain how wonderful it was to have both Travis and Shanel stay with us for the weekend. We had 48 hours of uninterrupted togetherness, and it was positively superb!
Please come back again, Travis and Shanel!!! We ♥ u!
*A big breakfast at the Hendricks Household involves: blueberry pancakes, perfectly fried eggs (compliments to Shanel), sausage, grits, orange juice, lots o' love, and good company!
**Jeni's slogan should be: "Jeni's. That's how we do ice cream in Ohio."
How do I begin about the weekend?! It.was.incredible! For many reasons! The main one being that my brother, Travis, and sister-in-law, Shanel, trekked out to Ohio to spend some quality time with us on our turf! Just being together was the best part of the entire weekend, but, as you know how we like to do it when we have guests in town, we also got down with some trade mark Columbus activities!
On Friday night when Travis and Shanel arrived, we headed to downtown Columbus to catch a glimpse of Highball Halloween. We stopped here for the first time together last year with my Grandparents, and we had to keep up the tradition! We once again saw some amazing (and ridiculous) costumes! But that is part of what makes Highball Halloween so fun!
On Saturday, after relaxing at the house (read: sleeping in) we grabbed lunch at Katzinger's deli and headed down to the tailgate to get ready for the Ohio State Buckeyes to take on the Wisconsin Badgers. What a fantastic game! We were bundled up and sat in a sea of scarlet while we watched the Buckeyes wallop the Badgers! It was a very, very exciting game, and after an unbelievable victory everyone rushed on the field to celebrate and bask in all the Buckeye glory! Some have even said it was the most exciting game they have ever been to in The Shoe. (Brian ranks it in his top five for your reference.) After the Buckeye game, we carried on downtown as usual after Ohio State football games and stopped at the Varsity Club to meet up with [some of] of the tailgate crew, where we also basked in the Buckeye glory!
Finally, on Sunday, we enjoyed each other's company while we made a big breakfast* together, popped into Jeni's for a quick sampling of Ohio ice cream**, and dropped my bro and sis-in-law back off at the airport.
We cannot begin to explain how wonderful it was to have both Travis and Shanel stay with us for the weekend. We had 48 hours of uninterrupted togetherness, and it was positively superb!
Please come back again, Travis and Shanel!!! We ♥ u!
*A big breakfast at the Hendricks Household involves: blueberry pancakes, perfectly fried eggs (compliments to Shanel), sausage, grits, orange juice, lots o' love, and good company!
**Jeni's slogan should be: "Jeni's. That's how we do ice cream in Ohio."
Friday, October 28, 2011
Cases Closed
With respect to case #98713-T, the case of the missing tree tops, we hereby determine the loss of those tree tops (and trees, for that matter) to be due to the power lines that have taken precedence over the oxygen and sanctuary released and provided by said trees. Furthermore, any future occurrences with this matter and this case belong to the City of Upper Arlington; they are given the right to entirely rid the power lines of any and all tree limbs that may interfere with perfect power supply. With respect to the residents of such backyards that may have been affected by the removal of these trees, we are truly sorry, from the bottom of our hearts, that you live in 2011. For if you had only lived about 100 years ago, this case would have been in favor of keeping the trees the way they were, because there were no power lines to interfere with.
[Gavel and sound block smash.]
Note from the plaintiff with reference to case #98713-T: We miss our trees. They provided the perfect screen to make our backyard seem like our little oasis. We understand that we need power, as do our neighbors, but we will be revisiting this area with a solution to bring the privacy back to our backyard. And we will be doing it soon…we hope.
With respect to case #68432-P, the case of the inexplicable nibbles on and around the Halloween pumpkins on the porch, we hereby determine the culprit to be squirrels, of which you are not approved to hunt, capture, trap, torture, lure, or kill intentionally. Furthermore, any future occurrences with this matter will result in the occupants of each residence to remove any and all Halloween pumpkins away from areas that squirrels may traverse if pumpkins with little bites taken out of them are unacceptable.
[Gavel and sound block smash.]
Note from the plaintiff with reference to case #68432-P: Those little stinkers ruined all three of our pumpkins! We have no other comments...
[Gavel and sound block smash.]
Note from the plaintiff with reference to case #98713-T: We miss our trees. They provided the perfect screen to make our backyard seem like our little oasis. We understand that we need power, as do our neighbors, but we will be revisiting this area with a solution to bring the privacy back to our backyard. And we will be doing it soon…we hope.
With respect to case #68432-P, the case of the inexplicable nibbles on and around the Halloween pumpkins on the porch, we hereby determine the culprit to be squirrels, of which you are not approved to hunt, capture, trap, torture, lure, or kill intentionally. Furthermore, any future occurrences with this matter will result in the occupants of each residence to remove any and all Halloween pumpkins away from areas that squirrels may traverse if pumpkins with little bites taken out of them are unacceptable.
[Gavel and sound block smash.]
Note from the plaintiff with reference to case #68432-P: Those little stinkers ruined all three of our pumpkins! We have no other comments...
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
Terms of Endearment
Pumpkin. Sweetheart. Honey. Baby.
Some people would argue that terms of endearment are a friendly way to approach people that you don’t know. I, on the other hand, think that terms of endearment should be restricted to close family and friends, and elderly folk.
Let me explain.
I was at Subway getting lunch the other day. The girl behind the counter, who looked like she was in her early twenties, asked me, “what can I get for you, sweetie?” I was taken aback and completely caught off guard. Did this girl just call me sweetie? I lost my train of thought. Now, I know that I may not “look” 29, but I certainly don’t feel like I “look” like I’m 7, and that’s how I feel when someone who appears to be younger than me calls me sweetie.
I stood for a moment while I gathered my thoughts (and my order) together and proceeded telling her what I wanted. I chalked it up to her probably just slipping up. When we got to the veggie section, she asked me, “what sort of veggies would you like, sweetie?” AGAIN! This was no slip up. And when my order was complete, she asked me, “will that be all for you, sweetie?” I was starting to feel violated, and it was very weird to me.
I left and, obviously, could not get the thought out of my head.
When I hear terms of endearment, I feel like they belong to close family and friends, such as a spouse, a child, a pet, etc. They are those words of love and affection that add a little touch of sweetness to your thought. I also feel like older people, as in at least two generations beyond whatever generation you happen to be in, are automatically exempt from my sometimes illogical thought process when it comes to the terms of the terms of endearment. Elderly people can call anyone by a sweet something. Twenty something year olds cannot. Am I the only one that feels like this?!
In addition, I've noticed people at work addressing one another by 'sweetheart'. It really throws me for a loop. I turn around expecting to see someone embracing their loved one, when what I really see are two coworkers deep in a work related conversation. Am I totally confused? Have I misunderstood the correct time and place for these endearing terms? I don't think so, honey.
For the record, I am a fan of terms of endearment; I just feel like they belong to certain people, and strangers (and coworkers) are not on that list for me. Unless, of course, it is for a purely sarcastic remark. (Which I rarely partake in...)
So, the next time the girl at Subway feels the need to address her clients by 'sweetie' she may just get a piece of my mind. A nice piece of my mind, of course, and it may change the way she does business. And it may not.
Ain't that right, sugar?!
Some people would argue that terms of endearment are a friendly way to approach people that you don’t know. I, on the other hand, think that terms of endearment should be restricted to close family and friends, and elderly folk.
Let me explain.
I was at Subway getting lunch the other day. The girl behind the counter, who looked like she was in her early twenties, asked me, “what can I get for you, sweetie?” I was taken aback and completely caught off guard. Did this girl just call me sweetie? I lost my train of thought. Now, I know that I may not “look” 29, but I certainly don’t feel like I “look” like I’m 7, and that’s how I feel when someone who appears to be younger than me calls me sweetie.
I stood for a moment while I gathered my thoughts (and my order) together and proceeded telling her what I wanted. I chalked it up to her probably just slipping up. When we got to the veggie section, she asked me, “what sort of veggies would you like, sweetie?” AGAIN! This was no slip up. And when my order was complete, she asked me, “will that be all for you, sweetie?” I was starting to feel violated, and it was very weird to me.
I left and, obviously, could not get the thought out of my head.
When I hear terms of endearment, I feel like they belong to close family and friends, such as a spouse, a child, a pet, etc. They are those words of love and affection that add a little touch of sweetness to your thought. I also feel like older people, as in at least two generations beyond whatever generation you happen to be in, are automatically exempt from my sometimes illogical thought process when it comes to the terms of the terms of endearment. Elderly people can call anyone by a sweet something. Twenty something year olds cannot. Am I the only one that feels like this?!
In addition, I've noticed people at work addressing one another by 'sweetheart'. It really throws me for a loop. I turn around expecting to see someone embracing their loved one, when what I really see are two coworkers deep in a work related conversation. Am I totally confused? Have I misunderstood the correct time and place for these endearing terms? I don't think so, honey.
For the record, I am a fan of terms of endearment; I just feel like they belong to certain people, and strangers (and coworkers) are not on that list for me. Unless, of course, it is for a purely sarcastic remark. (Which I rarely partake in...)
So, the next time the girl at Subway feels the need to address her clients by 'sweetie' she may just get a piece of my mind. A nice piece of my mind, of course, and it may change the way she does business. And it may not.
Ain't that right, sugar?!
Sunday, October 23, 2011
Missing!
Have you seen our tree tops?!
Upon our arrival home this afternoon, we noticed that some of our tree tops had been removed. In addition, there is a pile of wood in our neighbor's yard.
Our tree tops were last seen on Friday, October 21, 2011 in our backyard. They had been dropping their leaves slowly but, until today, were still 100% there.
We feel naked in our backyard.
Any information is greatly appreciated!
 |
| BEFORE - Exactly one week ago. |
 |
| AFTER - Present. |
Upon our arrival home this afternoon, we noticed that some of our tree tops had been removed. In addition, there is a pile of wood in our neighbor's yard.
Our tree tops were last seen on Friday, October 21, 2011 in our backyard. They had been dropping their leaves slowly but, until today, were still 100% there.
We feel naked in our backyard.
Any information is greatly appreciated!
Furthermore, if you could please tell us who/what is nibbling on our pumpkins, that would also be greatly appreciated.
 |
| FYI - It's not Jack. He was simply investigating. |
Crabcakes and Football
That's what Maryland does!
(We didn't partake in either while we visited my home sweet home this weekend, but it is true!)
We left on Friday morning, with Jack in tow, and headed off to Maryland. My parents, who have also just moved to Ottawa, Canada, were coming in town, and we were all under general consensus that it would be a lot easier to all meet up in Maryland versus Canada, so off we went!
On Friday night, Brian and I had the pleasure of catching up with some of my amazing girl friends - Tamara, Brandi, and Shalu! We had an absolute blast meeting for dinner at the Greene Turtle! I think all of our mouths and stomachs hurt from laughing so much, and even when we left we still could not stop laughing! These are some of the nights I miss the most not living close to these fantastic girls, but living far away really makes the time that we do have together so special. It was so awesome to hang with them, and that doesn't even do it justice!
Then, on Saturday, Brian, Jack and I met up with the fam at my Grandma's house. Once again, it was simply fantastic to see everyone! We spent the day chatting, laughing, and soaking each other in, and capped the night off with a couple bottles of wine and a lovely Italian dinner at Christina's. (Side note: Christina's was amazing! It was authentic, delicious, cozy, and the service was great! It was as close as you could get to authentic Italian food in Maryland! We highly recommend it if you are ever in the Wheaton, MD area!)
Finally, after we said our goodbyes and see you soons and we love yous, we all got on the road to head in our separate directions; Brian, Jack and I headed west back to Ohio; Mom, Scott, and James headed north back to Canada; Travis and Shanel headed south back to D.C.; and Amy headed west back to College Park. It was simply fantastic to see so many people that we hold so close to our hearts, and we are highly anticipating our next rendezvous! The countdown to Thanksgiving is on, and we are t-minus 31 days!
Enjoy our love below!
(We didn't partake in either while we visited my home sweet home this weekend, but it is true!)
We left on Friday morning, with Jack in tow, and headed off to Maryland. My parents, who have also just moved to Ottawa, Canada, were coming in town, and we were all under general consensus that it would be a lot easier to all meet up in Maryland versus Canada, so off we went!
On Friday night, Brian and I had the pleasure of catching up with some of my amazing girl friends - Tamara, Brandi, and Shalu! We had an absolute blast meeting for dinner at the Greene Turtle! I think all of our mouths and stomachs hurt from laughing so much, and even when we left we still could not stop laughing! These are some of the nights I miss the most not living close to these fantastic girls, but living far away really makes the time that we do have together so special. It was so awesome to hang with them, and that doesn't even do it justice!
Then, on Saturday, Brian, Jack and I met up with the fam at my Grandma's house. Once again, it was simply fantastic to see everyone! We spent the day chatting, laughing, and soaking each other in, and capped the night off with a couple bottles of wine and a lovely Italian dinner at Christina's. (Side note: Christina's was amazing! It was authentic, delicious, cozy, and the service was great! It was as close as you could get to authentic Italian food in Maryland! We highly recommend it if you are ever in the Wheaton, MD area!)
Finally, after we said our goodbyes and see you soons and we love yous, we all got on the road to head in our separate directions; Brian, Jack and I headed west back to Ohio; Mom, Scott, and James headed north back to Canada; Travis and Shanel headed south back to D.C.; and Amy headed west back to College Park. It was simply fantastic to see so many people that we hold so close to our hearts, and we are highly anticipating our next rendezvous! The countdown to Thanksgiving is on, and we are t-minus 31 days!
Enjoy our love below!
Sunday, October 16, 2011
Leaf Piles and Pumpkins
We spent our weekend diving right in to some of our favorite fall duties and some of our favorite fall excursions! First, we raked leaves upon leaves into to huge piles. And pile by pile, we placed our leaves on a big, blue tarp and dragged said tarp to the street where the leaf vacuum will be making its rounds in the upcoming week. Jack, of course, supervised our entire chore, so in between raking and piling we were also throwing the ball! We were definitely happy to have cleared some of our leaves from our yard because we are still attempting to grow some grass, and we were slightly concerned that the leaves that had fallen may have hindered our grass from getting sunlight, water, air, etc. Now, we are leaf free! At least for the time being! (This won't be the last time we rake and pile leaves this year!)
In addition to our pile o' leaves, we also headed to a local pumpkin patch called Kuhlwein's to pick out some pumpkins! With all due respect to the Kuhlwein family, we were not that impressed. We definitely picked out some winners, but the overall excursion could've been a little better. Then again, we are used to heading out to Lynd's, which is a hard place to beat when it comes to fall activities! We may still make a trip out to Lynd's. Fall is not over yet!
Last but certainly not least, we added Monster Mash to our iTunes queue to start getting into the Halloween spirit! And if you are looking for any sort of Halloween spirit, this song is your ticket! It.is.so.much.fun!
Enjoy the album below, and Happy Fall!
In addition to our pile o' leaves, we also headed to a local pumpkin patch called Kuhlwein's to pick out some pumpkins! With all due respect to the Kuhlwein family, we were not that impressed. We definitely picked out some winners, but the overall excursion could've been a little better. Then again, we are used to heading out to Lynd's, which is a hard place to beat when it comes to fall activities! We may still make a trip out to Lynd's. Fall is not over yet!
Last but certainly not least, we added Monster Mash to our iTunes queue to start getting into the Halloween spirit! And if you are looking for any sort of Halloween spirit, this song is your ticket! It.is.so.much.fun!
Enjoy the album below, and Happy Fall!
Thursday, October 13, 2011
Too Cute For His Own Good...
I once owned a pair of really cute shoes.
Until one day those shoes were misused.
A dog named Jack decided today was his day.
Today was his day to have his own way.
Off he went with my shoes in tow.
(This was a trait I thought he'd outgrow.)
And bite after bite he got into his groove.
Despite how much I disapproved.
I was left with a bit torn out of my shoe.
But I couldn't stay mad at such a cute Loo!
Until one day those shoes were misused.
A dog named Jack decided today was his day.
Today was his day to have his own way.
Off he went with my shoes in tow.
(This was a trait I thought he'd outgrow.)
And bite after bite he got into his groove.
Despite how much I disapproved.
I was left with a bit torn out of my shoe.
But I couldn't stay mad at such a cute Loo!
Monday, October 10, 2011
Underneath the Walnut Tree
We have had the most unbelievable fall weather recently! This weekend was no exception - it was beautiful and perfect in every fall way!
With Brian out of town supporting the Buckeyes in Nebraska, Jack and I kept ourselves occupied making three separate trips to Northam Park to play ball! It was fantastic! The leaves are turning, the fall colors are spreading like wild fire, and the leaves are starting to pile up in the most perfect of fall piles! We have been enjoying this fall weather thoroughly, and we plan to do so as long as we can!
With Brian out of town supporting the Buckeyes in Nebraska, Jack and I kept ourselves occupied making three separate trips to Northam Park to play ball! It was fantastic! The leaves are turning, the fall colors are spreading like wild fire, and the leaves are starting to pile up in the most perfect of fall piles! We have been enjoying this fall weather thoroughly, and we plan to do so as long as we can!
Thursday, October 6, 2011
Script Ohio Tradition
Celebrating 75 Years of the Incomparable Script Ohio!
Today we debuted Brian's ninth licensed print!
Congrats, Brian! And GO BUCKS!
Tuesday, October 4, 2011
USPS versus The World
As I drove into work this morning, I was disheartened to learn that the average US household receives a letter once every seven weeks. Compare that to 24 years ago in 1987 where the average US household received a letter once every two weeks. In today's mail, junk and catalogs comprise more 'mail' than the actual mail that we look forward to receiving. As a society, we are so focused on the "now" that snail mail has fallen to the wayside...way to the wayside. News travels faster than it every has before, and each day there are advances in our system to get information to us even faster than the day before. We are technology and information driven, and, in our world, the faster the better.
The thought of the demise of the United States Postal Service is very real. For years, news broadcasts, radio broadcasts, papers, internet articles have mentioned the possibility of removing the Saturday mail delivery. Jobs have been cut, stamp costs have risen, the internet has created a cheaper and faster way to communicate and pay bills, and debt in the postal service continues to rise. What was once an iconic emblem of our every freedom is becoming null and void. And it is very depressing.
I can't imagine life without the ability to send or receive snail mail. It is one of my favorite things. I've grown up with the mail. I received letters from Grandparents in the mail. I received college offer letters in the mail, and I won't even begin to tell you how many times I've been to the post office in the last week mailing something else out. (FYI, I've been four times, but, for the record, that is above average.) After hearing the stats this morning, I'm beginning to wonder if my mail habits are keeping the USPS afloat.
What are we going to do at Christmas when everyone sends Christmas cards? What are we going to do when we want to put a little extra effort in and actually hand write a letter? How will we send our secret admirer or pen pal or family member or best friend a special little something? What about postcards and invitations and birthday cards? How will we explain the foreign concept of "snail mail" to future generations? It is something that won't be around forever, but it certainly is one of those small things in life that really make it special.
Now, before you go and get me all wrong, I am all for conservation of paper and protecting the world and what not. I could use 97% less fluff (junk mail and catalogs) and 150% more meat and potatoes (real mail) to save the trees and the backs of our postal service workers, but it's not up to me. All I can do is write when I can, when I feel like it, and know that the unexpecting person on the other end is going to get a very special treat in a few days.
It's hard fighting a losing battle, but I'm comforted knowing that the USPS will not just close tomorrow. We've got at least a few more years where I can find pretty stamps at the post office and send hand written letters to special someones. (I know, soooo 1990's.) And I look forward to those moments of sending and receiving a dying art - our old school form of communication! I'm happy that I have been able to partake in snail mail firsthand!
The thought of the demise of the United States Postal Service is very real. For years, news broadcasts, radio broadcasts, papers, internet articles have mentioned the possibility of removing the Saturday mail delivery. Jobs have been cut, stamp costs have risen, the internet has created a cheaper and faster way to communicate and pay bills, and debt in the postal service continues to rise. What was once an iconic emblem of our every freedom is becoming null and void. And it is very depressing.
I can't imagine life without the ability to send or receive snail mail. It is one of my favorite things. I've grown up with the mail. I received letters from Grandparents in the mail. I received college offer letters in the mail, and I won't even begin to tell you how many times I've been to the post office in the last week mailing something else out. (FYI, I've been four times, but, for the record, that is above average.) After hearing the stats this morning, I'm beginning to wonder if my mail habits are keeping the USPS afloat.
What are we going to do at Christmas when everyone sends Christmas cards? What are we going to do when we want to put a little extra effort in and actually hand write a letter? How will we send our secret admirer or pen pal or family member or best friend a special little something? What about postcards and invitations and birthday cards? How will we explain the foreign concept of "snail mail" to future generations? It is something that won't be around forever, but it certainly is one of those small things in life that really make it special.
Now, before you go and get me all wrong, I am all for conservation of paper and protecting the world and what not. I could use 97% less fluff (junk mail and catalogs) and 150% more meat and potatoes (real mail) to save the trees and the backs of our postal service workers, but it's not up to me. All I can do is write when I can, when I feel like it, and know that the unexpecting person on the other end is going to get a very special treat in a few days.
It's hard fighting a losing battle, but I'm comforted knowing that the USPS will not just close tomorrow. We've got at least a few more years where I can find pretty stamps at the post office and send hand written letters to special someones. (I know, soooo 1990's.) And I look forward to those moments of sending and receiving a dying art - our old school form of communication! I'm happy that I have been able to partake in snail mail firsthand!
Sunday, October 2, 2011
Wonder Fall!
Today was the most perfect fall day! The air was crisp, the sun was warm, our puppy played ball until he was tired, and the leaves fell gently to the ground. It was a nice transition from the high of 50 degrees that we had experienced the day before! My body typically needs a transition into the cold weather, and the sudden turn in temperatures threw me for a complete loop and had me wondering how I was going to survive the winter. Fortunately, I was reminded today that while we have bid farewell to summer and our days are growing shorter, we do still have one of the best times of the year to experience! Ladies and Gents, fall is upon us!
In addition to the most perfect fall day yet, we also updated our centerpiece to get a bit more into the fall spirit:
(I would just like to state for the record that while I have been accused of being akin to Martha Stewart this does not represent my interior decorating skills as well as it could have. I could definitely use some centerpiece lessons... And, while we are on the topic (kind of) of who I have been accused of being, Monk is also on that list. Both accusations were from my very best friend, Tamara, who sometimes knows me better than I do, so there probably is some truth in both.)
The forecast for the remainder of the week is for temperatures to gradually increase into the upper 70's, lower 80's. Perhaps we've got a little Indian summer on it's way, but if not, we welcome fall with open arms!
In addition to the most perfect fall day yet, we also updated our centerpiece to get a bit more into the fall spirit:
(I would just like to state for the record that while I have been accused of being akin to Martha Stewart this does not represent my interior decorating skills as well as it could have. I could definitely use some centerpiece lessons... And, while we are on the topic (kind of) of who I have been accused of being, Monk is also on that list. Both accusations were from my very best friend, Tamara, who sometimes knows me better than I do, so there probably is some truth in both.)
The forecast for the remainder of the week is for temperatures to gradually increase into the upper 70's, lower 80's. Perhaps we've got a little Indian summer on it's way, but if not, we welcome fall with open arms!
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
Fortunes, Glorious Fortunes
The major value in life is not in what you get, but in what you become.
(I love how simple Chinese take-away can be so philosophical.)
(I love how simple Chinese take-away can be so philosophical.)
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
The Motherclucker
Buttermilk fried Gerber chicken breast.
House cured bacon.
Roasted poblano chiles.
Greens.
House made aioli.
Amish jack cheese.
And a kiss of honey.
Served on a brioche sesame bun.
That's all you Knead to know!
House cured bacon.
Roasted poblano chiles.
Greens.
House made aioli.
Amish jack cheese.
And a kiss of honey.
Served on a brioche sesame bun.
That's all you Knead to know!
Monday, September 19, 2011
Friday, September 16, 2011
Balancing Act
Now, I'm no trapeze artist, but I would consider my ability to balance things, especially things that are not easily balanced, pretty good. Well, until this morning.
Picture this: It's 6:00 in the morning. I've already been awaken by my alarm, unwillingly, and I've already showered, also unwillingly, and I'm preparing to venture downstairs to prepare for my journey to work, unwillingly.
We have a 90 degree corner in our banister that is perfect for setting things while you are either a.) picking something else up, b.) putting something in your pocket, or c.) eager to practice your balancing skills. Unfortunately, while balancing (pun intended) a., b., and c.,I learned the hard way that my balancing skills are not up to par in the morning. Not at all.
I set my make-up bag oh so perfectly on said 90 degree angle with no trouble. I then set my phone on my make-up bag, also with no trouble, until I accidentally bumped my make-up bag. Then the whole thing went awry.
My make-up bag fell toward me, a 3' fall. Nothing was damaged. My phone, on the other hand, took the one story plunge and landed on the hardwood steps. This, I thought matter of factly, would have been much better if my phone had fallen the 3' and my make-up bag had fallen down the steps, but what was done was done, and time was a tickin' - I still had to get ready.
I went downstairs, passed my phone on the steps (we've been through a few pretty rough falls), put my make-up on, ran through my morning routine, and went to grab my phone. However, my phone had a blank screen. A plain, black, blank screen, and nothing else would appear. I took the battery out. I shook it. I let it sit in perfect stillness, and still no screen. I must've knocked every pixel in the screen out of phone because I got nothing, nada, zilch, zero.
12 hours and two stops at the Verizon store later, I had learned that the only thing that could remedy this situation was the purchase of a brand new phone. [Sigh.] I had no choice but to bid adieu to my old phone and welcome my new phone. Which I did.
This was an expensive lesson, but in that lesson I learned the following:
1. No matter how sturdy the foundation is, never balance your cell phone. Even if it is balanced over the comfiest, cushioniest pillows in the world. Just don't do it.
2. 1.5" 90 degree angles in banisters are not the greatest place to put things. Especially when one side of the banister comes with a one story drop. (I must remember this for when we have kids.)
3. Noises echo exponentially through the house at 6:00 am, and I swore I woke up Brian, Bun, Jack, and the neighbors with this failure.
4. My balancing skills are not what they used to be, and I'm only 29...
Picture this: It's 6:00 in the morning. I've already been awaken by my alarm, unwillingly, and I've already showered, also unwillingly, and I'm preparing to venture downstairs to prepare for my journey to work, unwillingly.
We have a 90 degree corner in our banister that is perfect for setting things while you are either a.) picking something else up, b.) putting something in your pocket, or c.) eager to practice your balancing skills. Unfortunately, while balancing (pun intended) a., b., and c.,I learned the hard way that my balancing skills are not up to par in the morning. Not at all.
I set my make-up bag oh so perfectly on said 90 degree angle with no trouble. I then set my phone on my make-up bag, also with no trouble, until I accidentally bumped my make-up bag. Then the whole thing went awry.
My make-up bag fell toward me, a 3' fall. Nothing was damaged. My phone, on the other hand, took the one story plunge and landed on the hardwood steps. This, I thought matter of factly, would have been much better if my phone had fallen the 3' and my make-up bag had fallen down the steps, but what was done was done, and time was a tickin' - I still had to get ready.
I went downstairs, passed my phone on the steps (we've been through a few pretty rough falls), put my make-up on, ran through my morning routine, and went to grab my phone. However, my phone had a blank screen. A plain, black, blank screen, and nothing else would appear. I took the battery out. I shook it. I let it sit in perfect stillness, and still no screen. I must've knocked every pixel in the screen out of phone because I got nothing, nada, zilch, zero.
12 hours and two stops at the Verizon store later, I had learned that the only thing that could remedy this situation was the purchase of a brand new phone. [Sigh.] I had no choice but to bid adieu to my old phone and welcome my new phone. Which I did.
This was an expensive lesson, but in that lesson I learned the following:
1. No matter how sturdy the foundation is, never balance your cell phone. Even if it is balanced over the comfiest, cushioniest pillows in the world. Just don't do it.
2. 1.5" 90 degree angles in banisters are not the greatest place to put things. Especially when one side of the banister comes with a one story drop. (I must remember this for when we have kids.)
3. Noises echo exponentially through the house at 6:00 am, and I swore I woke up Brian, Bun, Jack, and the neighbors with this failure.
4. My balancing skills are not what they used to be, and I'm only 29...
Wednesday, September 14, 2011
Scotland is Free!
Remember this guy:
He visited us and Columbus, OH and the Ohio State Buckeyes nearly one year ago, AND we went to visit him in Zurich, Switzerland?
Yes, that guy!
Our dear Scottish Peach (currently Swiss Peach), Matt, flew into town on Thursday and stayed with us until yesterday morning! It was, as usual, an awesome visit! Since I had Friday off, Matt and I headed over to Easton and spent the day shopping. We had so much fun! And I nicknamed him my gusband! For the rest of the weekend, my gusband and my rusband (that is my "gay" husband and "real" husband, respectively) spent their time carrying on, cracking jokes, laughing, making me laugh, going to the Ohio State game, drinking, chowing down on tons of American foods, and having a good ol' time! (Note: Matt is not gay. Not at all. But since he was shopping with me, I figured the nickname fit him perfectly! Plus, I've always wanted a good shopping buddy!)
We all had a fantastic weekend with Matt in town, and we cannot wait until our next rendezvous! Loves to you, Peach! Thanks for making the trip over to the States to visit! It was wonderful to see you!
Thursday, September 8, 2011
The Wall
One day it was decided.
The room looked a little lopsided.
There was one painted wall.
It was bare. It was tall.
And we were determined to hide it.
With what our thoughts ran amok.
Until we happened upon sheer luck.
Three frames found in an upstairs closet.
Made of some sort of silver composite.
This wall is where they'd be stuck.
We picked out our favorite three.
They were images of our family.
Up went the frames.
While Jack played his games.
And we danced around our wall yelling, 'Whoopee!'
The room looked a little lopsided.
There was one painted wall.
It was bare. It was tall.
And we were determined to hide it.
With what our thoughts ran amok.
Until we happened upon sheer luck.
Three frames found in an upstairs closet.
Made of some sort of silver composite.
This wall is where they'd be stuck.
We picked out our favorite three.
They were images of our family.
Up went the frames.
While Jack played his games.
And we danced around our wall yelling, 'Whoopee!'
Tuesday, September 6, 2011
House Hopping
Life has a really funny way of working itself out. As many of you know, I quit my "less than ideal" job a couple of weeks ago. On my last day of work, a Friday, at 4:45 pm, I received a missed call and a brand spankin' new voicemail. Much to my surprise, it was a job offer! A job offer! I took the weekend to review the offer, talk it over with Brian, and on Monday I officially accepted a new position! Ladies and Gentlemen, I am not unemployed! To make things even better, I am super excited about the new position and am really looking forward to working with what seems to be an extremely reputable company. Ahhh!! (That is my sigh of relief!)
Because this happened on my last day of work, and the start date for the new position isn't for two weeks, I have had a wonderful two week break from life. For the past seven days I have been traveling up and down the east coast visiting many of my family and friends that are near and certainly dear to my heart. I've gotten a much needed dose of some TLC and feel rejuvenated and strengthened to begin this new career! There is something so special about going home!
Here is how the last week went:
-Wednesday - drove to Maryland from Ohio to visit Brandi and the fam.
-Thursday - spent the day with Brandi, Phil, Crystal, Brandon and Shalu. Then headed to stay with my sister, Amy.
-Friday - spent the morning with Amy, did lunch with Shalu in Bethesda, then drove to Baltimore to catch my bus up to NYC!
-Saturday - spent the day in Brooklyn with Shanna.
-Sunday - took the bus back to Baltimore from NYC and drove down to my Grandparent's house where we had a lovely dinner with their neighbors. After dinner I took the metro into DC to spend the night with my brother, Travis, and sister-in-law, Shanel.
-Monday - drove to my Grandparents to stay the night there and enjoyed the afternoon with family.
-Tuesday - drove back to Ohio from Maryland (after I made sure that my car could make it! At 221,000 miles you have to take extra precautions!)
It was incredible, and it was so nice to see so many people! Now, it's back to real life!
Acknowledgements: First and foremost, I would like to thank my husband, for if it weren't for him and his support, I would not have been able to even do this. I would also like to thank my family and friends for being so flexible with their schedules, accommodating me, providing me sleeping arrangements, feeding me (all with little notice), and, more than anything, for allowing me to 'fly by the seat of my pants'. It is for these reasons and many, many more why I love you all so, so much!
Because this happened on my last day of work, and the start date for the new position isn't for two weeks, I have had a wonderful two week break from life. For the past seven days I have been traveling up and down the east coast visiting many of my family and friends that are near and certainly dear to my heart. I've gotten a much needed dose of some TLC and feel rejuvenated and strengthened to begin this new career! There is something so special about going home!
Here is how the last week went:
-Wednesday - drove to Maryland from Ohio to visit Brandi and the fam.
-Thursday - spent the day with Brandi, Phil, Crystal, Brandon and Shalu. Then headed to stay with my sister, Amy.
-Friday - spent the morning with Amy, did lunch with Shalu in Bethesda, then drove to Baltimore to catch my bus up to NYC!
-Saturday - spent the day in Brooklyn with Shanna.
-Sunday - took the bus back to Baltimore from NYC and drove down to my Grandparent's house where we had a lovely dinner with their neighbors. After dinner I took the metro into DC to spend the night with my brother, Travis, and sister-in-law, Shanel.
-Monday - drove to my Grandparents to stay the night there and enjoyed the afternoon with family.
-Tuesday - drove back to Ohio from Maryland (after I made sure that my car could make it! At 221,000 miles you have to take extra precautions!)
It was incredible, and it was so nice to see so many people! Now, it's back to real life!
Acknowledgements: First and foremost, I would like to thank my husband, for if it weren't for him and his support, I would not have been able to even do this. I would also like to thank my family and friends for being so flexible with their schedules, accommodating me, providing me sleeping arrangements, feeding me (all with little notice), and, more than anything, for allowing me to 'fly by the seat of my pants'. It is for these reasons and many, many more why I love you all so, so much!
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
Garden of Love
I am in love with these new (to me) forever stamps! They make me want to write letters upon letters upon letters! Keep an eye out on the snail mail!
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