The Elusive Glow

The moment you start telling people you are pregnant your life changes. It’s a little like getting engaged except the advice centers around diapers, diet and lack of sleep instead of flowers, menu decisions and drunk relatives. All sense of privacy is immediately thrown out the window.

People feel an incredible freedom to start asking all sorts of questions they would NEVER have asked before you said you were expecting. Crazily enough, you really don’t care about most of these questions. Close family and friends asking you about pregnancy symptoms, tales of conception, and the ever-growing state of your breasts (oh, and your plan for them too) are all part of the process. It does get a little odd when co-workers or strangers (none of you are strangers, you are all my blog friends) start asking you about bodily functions or wanting to touch your belly, whether your gut is really baby or just that pasta you ate for lunch.

At 14 weeks, I’m at that point where no one dares to ask if when I’m due unless they actually know that I am pregnant. I get lots of “looks” and staring at my tummy, with inquisitive glances wondering if I ate pasta for lunch too often or if I’ve joined the maternity club. If they only knew that my new jeans don’t have a zipper and that cute t-shirt they just complimented is from the maternity store at the mall.

So, now that I am safely out of the first trimester (sweet pea is the size of a lemon this week) and starting into my second, let me recap how the last couple months have been. Whether it be informative, persuasive or just entertaining, remember that every woman’s experience is different and from what I’ve heard, every pregnancy is different.

Unless you have brutally honest friends, (and I have a few, I love you gals) before you get pregnant the overwhelming majority of information you get will be about how wonderful pregnancy is. How fun feeling the baby kick is. How amazing the bursts of energy and nesting are. How great pregnancy yoga pants are. How awesome the bond you develop with your unborn child is. Basically, all stuff that gives you that “pregnancy glow.”

Well, ladies (and maybe one gent if DH pops on here) I’m here to tell you that during my first trimester the closest I got to a “pregnancy glow” was the layer of grease on my face from all the new zits I developed. Maybe there was a glaze in my eyes from feeling pukey all the time. Yes, I wrote, all the time. Until this week I can honestly say, without exaggerating, that I was nauseous for around 16 hours a day. I only actually vomited a couple handfuls of times, but the all day car-sick feeling was miserable. As a child I was a motion sickness magnet. We never went on a long trip without a puke bag near me. Well, that’s pretty much what it feels like, but no beach or Tahoe vacation at the end of the ride.

Let me tell you a little about pre-natal vitamins. They are a necessity for your health and the health of your unborn child. You need to pump yourself full of all those good minerals and help that baby develop into the strong little genius that it will become. With all of that being said find one that doesn’t make you gag. The first bottle I bought the pills were huge and they smelled really nasty and they immediately dissolved in your mouth before you could swallow them. Coupled with the ever-present nausea, that was miserable. I’m happy to say that I have found another brand of pre-natals that are much more “user friendly.” (Another side note on the vitamins…risking tmi…watch out for the iron…eat lots of fruit to help counteract this lovely side effect or you’ll be spending even more time hanging around the bathroom.)

Speaking of hanging around the bathroom, I honestly thought that the constant peeing didn’t start until the kid was big enough to kick you in the bladder and take up most of the room previously reserved for internal organs. Yeah, I was wrong. Apparently, the overactive urination starts right from the get go. The books all say it’s the hormones, but I think it might be attributed to the mass quantities of aqua I’m consuming these days. The doctor wants you to drink 2 liters of water a day and for the first time in my life that is not a problem. I am constantly thirsty and since diet coke, coffee and vino are off the menu, water it is!

Let’s see, what else is off the menu. Yes, that’s right, sushi!!! I miss my friend spicy tuna so much it’s terrible. I thought that my alcohol would be the most difficult menu alteration once I got pregnant. Now I realize, the bond of motherhood is really really strong for me to “just say no” to diet coke and raw fish for nine months. I’ve already informed DH that my first real meal after delivery will definitely be a few of my favorite rolls and a large ice-cold diet coke. Besides that the food restrictions really haven’t been that difficult. I drink herbal tea instead of coffee. 99% of cheese is pasteurized, so that’s been easy. I wasn’t a huge lunch meat eater anyway so I’m not missing out on that.

The bigger issue with food has been enjoying eating at all. I have been pretty much grossed out by everything. Chicken was once my staple…now, I can’t even manage to look at it without getting queasy. I thought it was getting slightly better, but no sooner did I stop wanting to vomit that my appetite diminished in portion size and the heartburn kicked in. I can’t seem to finish anything on my plate, even my favorite foods and I never leave home without some tums in my purse.

Ok, now that I’ve totally whined about what I like to call “the first trimester blues” let me put a few things in perspective. I would not trade all of this misery for the world because it all means that I’m growing a healthy, strong baby inside of me. Yes, inside of me. That’s crazy!!! DH and I spend hours just chatting about what the baby is going to look like, be like, baby names, whether we think it’s a boy or a girl (I’m cheering for team pink, lol) and if my baby bump is getting bigger or if it’s just the grilled cheese for dinner that sounded good and stayed down. Oh, and let me gush about how insanely cool ultrasounds are. I will NEVER get tired of hearing that magical heart beat. It is music to my ears. Every little turn and flutter with that adorable blob on the screen has me riveted to no end.

I know, I’ve heard it all…the second trimester is tons better. Let’s hope so. However, even if it isn’t, I’ll manage. DH may need a pillow to cry into to manage my mood swings, but I’ll manage…because as soon as I feel this little one kick me, I will have another wonderful reminder of the most fantastic thing DH and I have ever done together.

Sorry if I scared you, but it’s all the truth. Yet, it must definitely be worth it because people keep having kids and a lot of them are planned, lol. The good news is I’ll probably forget all the not-so-fun stuff because otherwise, we’d all be only children.

Please feel free to ask any questions you have or to share your experiences. I would love to hear from you….just ask before you reach out and touch my cyber belly, ok?

Big News

Yeah yeah, I’ve said it before…I’m sorry, I’m a slacker and I’ll try to do better. Basically, when people say things like, “Oh, when life slows down after the wedding” or “As soon as the wedding is over you’ll have time on your hands” they are lying. Yep, big fat liars. Life does not slow down, ever. It just keeps getting busier, more hectic and flies by more and more quickly. What has had me so busy that I’ve let all of you down you ask? Well, that’s a trickier question. A little of this and a little of that, I guess. We’ve gone on some trips (I stink at taking pictures anymore and when I do they sit on my camera for months.) We’ve spent time with family and friends (both for happy occasions and sad). Oh, and I/we had something a little bigger (or smaller, as the case may be) on our minds.

Yes, that is what you think it is….We’re Expecting!!!!!

Right now I’m 12 weeks along and due February 13th. DH and I are beyond excited, as are our families. This will be the first grandchild on my side so we’re starting a whole new generation. =)

My thoughts for this blog are for it to travel along with me on all of our adventures, including preparing for parenthood and all that goes along with that. Expect complete and total uncensored honesty and unfortunately some sporadic posting. I will give a valiant effort, but between work, a busy 2009 and the all day nausea I don’t know what I can promise.
So, for those of you who already knew, thank you for all of the wonderful wishes and supports already. And for those of you that this is a surprise…well, SURPRISE!!!!

# 74 Get our wedding album in my hands

Last week I got a wonderful message from the lovely Sarah that not only was our album ready for me to come pick up, but that the latest issue of Real Weddings magazine was hot off the presses.

Let me first tell you about the album….It is gorgeous!!! Brown leather cover filled with pages upon pages of lovely images from a truly memorable day. I said that when the album got here, that was officially the end of the wedding. Well, folks….seven months after DH and I said “I Do” it is all officially over. Although I’ve been told we have a few more gifts coming…they are taking advantage of their full year…I still feel like the wedding is really over and done with. It is a great feeling. The last seven months have been so much fun. Now, with the album, and some new pictures for the wall I am finishing up the last little bits.

Ironically, the album was ready on the very same day that the latest issue of Real Weddings was released. Why, you may ask, is she this interested in a wedding magazine when she just finished telling us how she is done with her wedding?

Well….that is because we are featured in the latest issue!!!!! It is so fun and exciting to be published in a magazine. I vividly remember pouring through this particular publication while planning, for everything from ideas on locations, vendors, styles to just more wedding porn in general. Now, a whole new season of brides will get to see our wedding and maybe pick up on something they love. It is just plain cool. =)

So, not only is #74 (Get our wedding album in my hands) all wrapped up and done, but so is the wedding and we are published!!!!

Here is a link to the online article and some pictures…the magazine featured some different pictures so be sure to pick up a copy.

http://realweddingsmag.com/weddingDetail.cfm?id=52

(SMP)

My new cult

Let me explain why I haven’t found the time to download the pictures off of my camera and blog about our Vegas trip (or any of the other fun stuff going on)….I signed up for Netflix.

Now, for those of you that partake in this addictive habit, no further explanation needed. For those of you who were like me…let me elaborate. I had every excuse in the book of why I didn’t want to join Netflix. The most prevalent were always things like, I don’t want to spend the money, I don’t watch that many dvd’s, I want the movies immediately, I have dvr and have plenty of things to watch, I don’t have the time to watch a bunch of dvd’s…etc, etc, etc.

(source)

I have a few friends, family and co-workers that are all part of the Netflix cult (I love this cult)…They ALL swear by Netflix. So, after the millionth person asking me if I saw such-and-such movie or what movies had I seen lately, I realized that I hadn’t seen really anything lately that wasn’t being shown on TBS or one of my other million basic satellite channels. I was really missing out on some great movies. The clincher though about Netflix is that it isn’t just movies…it’s television shows too! I am a rabid lover of many quality (in my opinion) shows that are on the premier stations (which I just can’t cough up the money to have at my fingertips).

Now that I have Netflix…I can watch entire seasons of Big Love, Dexter, The Tudors and many many more…along with shows that I completely missed out on and can get into now. All in the comfort of my living room…without ever having to leave for work early so I can return the stupid dvd. Now, I just toss it into the mailbox and wait for the next one to arrive. They even send you emails of when your next one is shipping. It is wonderful. (People love it so much there is even a Netflix Fan blog!)

(source)

So, now that I officially sound like a commercial for Netflix, you can start to understand why I’m not on the computer downloading pictures or writing a bunch of blog posts. Heck, just this week I finally watched The Dark Knight, Slumdog Millionaire and Milk.

(source)

The only downside is that DH is sleeping his evenings away trying to watch movies with me. Ask him if he liked any of these films…just don’t give away the ending…like clockwork he sleeps through the last 30 minutes. I think it is time to que up for some of those shows I was talking about…or maybe a few chick flicks I can watch on my own.

Happy April

It is April 1st today….yes, that means it is April Fools Day. I thought about writing a funny prank post about how I decided to take up residence in Vegas at Caesar’s permanently (I wish) or how DH and I were having a baby (not even believable) or some other shenanigans, but then I figured all the folks posting prank statuses on facebook are enough to fill the prank quota for the day.

Instead, I would rather check in with you all and say a quick hello. Oh, and let you know that I am working on updating the blog with a few new posts and letting you all know how I’m doing on the 5 year plan. Things are moving along, but there is still a lot to accomplish.

In the meantime I thought I would share a cute article that a friend shared with me from the Best of Craigslist…it makes me giggle and at the same time smile. Do you love where you live?

http://www.craigslist.org/about/best/sac/159042029.html

If you're happy and you know it...#70

I am officially counting #70 off my list - Be 100% happy in the moment and take note of it. We are now at five months since the wedding (tomorrow!!!)…and life could not be better. Yes, the economy sucks and I want a bigger house so we can start our family whenever we are ready. Yes, I want to hit the lotto so DH and I can travel and enjoy more leisure time with friends and family. However….we are both healthy, happy and in love. I honestly don’t think I imagined that married life would be this wonderfully amazing. I know, I know…gag, gag….but seriously…it is the best! I am loving being a newlywed. Ok, say it with me…awwwwwww. =D

Yarn it up

I have lots of hobbies…I love to read, watch movies, play video games, all things crafty, hang out with family and friends, decorate my house, sleep (yes, sleeping is a hobby), I watch tons of television (dvr is my best inanimate friend) and many many more! In addition to my love of Rock Band 2, drooling over Tory Burch shoes and photographs...



Crocheting is one of my beloved pastimes and is at the forefront of the list. I only learned how to crochet a couple years ago. It started with a love of giving hand-made meaningful gifts and a lot of my friends starting to have babies. I decided that I wanted to give them blankets and such and so a passion was born. There is still so much to learn and I hope to take more lessons soon.

I feel like I have made so many items in the last couple years…my baby blanket obsession even made it into my Dad’s toast at the wedding. There are patterns that are definitely my favorites, but I do try to branch out a little.



Usually, I forget to take pictures of my projects, but I do have a few…some are from my camera and one is from the book I got the pattern out of (already gave the blanket away, lol)…but it looks just like it.



DH is even getting his own blanket…he picked out the pattern and the colors he wanted. Now, if I can only find time to make myself something. =)

#49 & #44

#49 – Eat at 25 new restaurants – Is always a work in progress. The latest was The Counter in Roseville. It is a chain that started down South, but has recently opened a location up here in the new Fountains shopping center. DH and I went with some great friends and we had a wonderful time…I could not stop munching on the crispy onion strings and the sweet potato fries. What I really liked about this place were the endless options…as a non-beef eater, I loved that they not only had a veggie burger option, but turkey burger and chicken sandwich! Love it!!! I will definitely go back soon (after Easter).

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Why after Easter, you ask? (Such a smooth transition, lol.) This Lenten season I am pushing myself in a way I have not previously done. I am sacrificing my TWO favorite “go-to” foods….yes, French Fries AND Chips & Salsa. Ah, it has been a two and a half weeks and I’m already dying. =( Yet, I persevere through and will be a better person for it come mid-April. If I succeed, and let’s face it, I’m too stubborn not to…I will be able to check off #44.

Oh, and I am wearing pink today...are you? Support California teachers!!!!

Oh, happy days

I enjoy cooking. I enjoy baking. I enjoy entertaining. My kitchen, specifically my oven, was making that miserable. (Ok, now I totally feel like I am on HSN trying to get you to buy something for 3 easy payments of whatever and 99 cents.)

Back to the post at hand…our place (house, townhouse, condo, whatever I feel like calling it today) was built in 1987 and still has the original appliances. Or, I should say “had”…since we got new appliances on Monday!!!!

The oven and stove would set off the smoke detector no matter what you were doing. That was in part due to the insufficient fan capabilities of the microhood. The microwave actually had a dial!!!! Yep, a dial. Oh, and the dishwasher…forget trying to watch television downstairs while it was running…I’m surprised we didn’t get a noise complaint from that thing chugging and groaning.


(No picture of the old range...DH forgot and I guess I didn't remind him.)


Finally, after two wonderful parties and cooking for large groups I threw the towel in…literally, I tossed it on the floor and screamed in despair. For the past two years I’ve been managing with these sub-par pieces of crap. DH and I decided that since we aren’t going to be able to move anytime soon (and we would have to do it then anyways) it is time to replace the lot of them and enjoy our new stuff for a while ourselves.

So, I researched it all out and picked the brand and models we wanted and were within our budget….my number one item on the wish list was a convection oven…and I got it!!! I am so excited to be able to cook multiple dishes and have less cook time…it is going to make me a happy lady…and as DH says, A happy wife is a happy life. =)

As some of my blog friends can attest…anything new in the kitchen (or a whole new kitchen) is a wonderful thing. Thanks for letting me share.

Are you ready for some football? #96

The weekend before the birthday party we had a Super Bowl party (I know I’m seriously playing catch up here, just hang in there with me…you are going to get lots of posts this week)…yep, I just keep entertaining away…I think it is all part of loving being a newlywed and having this need to nest and have people over. (Maybe it is all of the nice weddings present we received and wanting to use them.) It was a smaller group of about 10 or so…we had a great time and everyone ate, drank and enjoyed the game. Only 5 more months until pre-season!!!! That party also helped me complete one more item on my five-year plan…so number 96 is successfully accomplished.

I did take a ton of pictures of the food for the party…there was seriously enough food for a medium sized army…we ate baked potatoes for days and not only did we send home doggie bags, but even had friends over the next night for leftovers.

Before everyone got to the house...

The fridge is stocked and the oven is full... (Stef, recognize the bread bowls?)

Dinner was ready to go...(Wings not pictured...I think they were still in the oven)

Chatting, eating...and DH helping to clean up some of the dishes. =)

Birthday Shindig

So, you ask, what have I been up to? Hmmm…my DH is now the big 3-0. =) We held a bash in his honor at our place and had 16 of our closest friends (including sibs) there and had a great time. Everyone gave me a bad time about making too much food….then proceeded to eat almost all of it, lol. Actually, there were plenty of leftovers, but when 16 people eat 40 enchiladas (I made 64), mass quantities of chips, salsa, guacamole, rice, beans, salad and almost half a sheet cake….Well, I don’t feel like I made too much food after that. I think the punch bowl of margaritas and the fully stocked bar had something to do with everyone eating a bit over their normal intake. Who am I kidding? I love over preparing and having everyone wasted and enjoying themselves, especially if the entertainment includes Rock Band 2 and DH being happy.

Unfortunately I was playing hostess a little too much to take pictures…my brother took a bunch, but we all know how that goes…I still haven’t seen them. I guess since he is out of the country on a skiing trip I’ll give him a pass right now. I only have a few that ended up on DH’s camera…most of them were blurry, I guess those margaritas were REALLY good, lol.

Calling Myself Out

Ok, so it has been a million years since I updated and I’ve totally been called out on it. Well, that is how exciting my life is, lol. Seriously, I am sooooo boring now. Well, at least I think my life is boring. However boring is very nice. My boring life is full of love, working on projects around the house and hobby-wise and working at a job I am very thankful for.

It isn’t so much that I haven’t had anything to blog about, it is that I don’t have any pictures to go along with those posts and I am not a big fan of posts without pictures. Even my Mom gets bored with me unless there are pictures…wave hello Mom, I know you are there lurking.

There are lots of things in the works right now. I am diligently working hard at my five-year plan and maintaining an optimistic outlook during these hard economic times and rainy/drought season. Check back soon for lots of posts (I already have some written)....what do you want to hear about?

What have you all been up to?

Same Old, Same Old

Forgive me readers it has been 10 days since my last post. Really, there hasn’t been that much going on.

Last weekend we visited with lots of friends at dinners, parties and the like. Of course, I didn’t bring my camera and don’t have any pictures to show you. I know, boring.

Honestly, I am busy planning away. This weekend is the Super Bowl and we are having a group of friends over for the game, the food, the drink and the commercials, along with a huge helping of fun. =) (That was so completely cheesy, my apologies.) It takes a lot of prep to get it all in gear. I enjoy it and love having people over, but nevertheless I wouldn’t be being completely honest with you if I said it was a snap. Yes Mom, I know…I do tend to go overboard and make way too much food and stress way too much over nothing. Well, I’ll get two weekends in a row to do that, lol.

The following weekend is DH’s 30th birthday!!! In honor of this special milestone in his life, we are (I am) throwing a shin-dig at our casa. I will tell you all more about it when we get a little closer or as soon as it occurs….reason being that I would love to surprise our guests and a few of them read this here blog. All I can say is that…it is going to be a great time and you’d best come with your Rock Band skills ready.

Actually, DH has already opened his birthday gift from me. =) I bought him the aforementioned Rock Band 2 for the Wii. The two of us love our Wii. Any given night you might walk in to find us either jammin’ on tour with our band or racing around a variety of tracks with Mario Kart. I’ll have to snap a few pictures one night so you’ll believe me.

Other than that, it’s been the same old, same old. I keep working on projects around the house and trying to figure out how we can afford our dream home during this lifetime. I’ve been working away at my list, interrupted slightly by Lost coming back on air. I won’t post spoilers (you are welcome, Stef) but let me say….holy cow, what a season so far. If you haven’t yet….jump on the Lost bandwagon…rent them from Netfix, borrow them from a friend (Mom, we have seasons 1 and 2). Seriously, don’t miss out!!! I’ll be back soon.

Massive Undertaking...#5 - Clean My Closet

Bright and early Saturday morning I woke up and started in on one of the largest projects on my five-year plan…not as big as a new house or a baby, but definitely tougher than sending out holiday cards.

That’s right yall (as Brit-Brit would say)…I cleaned out my closet. I will pause for a brief moment for you all to visualize your own closet. Now, think of it at its messiest…whether that be right now or during a previous time when you were so disgusted by how bad it had gotten that you didn’t even want to go in there. Well, my closet was worse than that, I guarantee.

You see, I am a very organized person. I love everything in nice, neat stacks…and on spreadsheets. I love when I walk in somewhere and it’s all lined up and pretty. However, I am also an extremist. It’s all or nothing with me. I get on a project and there is no stopping me, but if I want to avoid something….I can be just as extreme in that. My closet has been no exception and it had turned into a ridiculous cabinet that things disappeared into and were never heard from again.

So, bright and early Saturday morning I tackled my closet head on. I didn’t even take before pictures because it is that embarrassing. I was ruthless with clothes, shoes and “stuff.” I went through every item in the entire closet. It took all day and a nice break for lunch at my favorite Sacramento franchise, Dos Coyotes. (Thank you for lunch and the moral support DH!)

In the process of reorganizing the entire closet I found a few fun, inventive ways to reuse items and incorporate wedding ideas into the space. I had purchased 3 foldable baskets from Cost Plus to use as the bathroom baskets…I ended up using 2 to store all of my scarves (I love scarves) and one for my very own flip-flop basket. I have 8 pairs of flip-flops and they look great all pretty in the basket…so fun! I even went a step further and cleaned out my dresser and started working on other rooms in the house.

All in all…Goodwill received 7 large handled bags of clothes, shoes and accessories. The washer and dryer also got a good workout doing about a million loads of laundry and our garbage can is halfway full of crap that was deemed not worthy for donation to anything but the dump.

It was a large project…DH got so worn out watching, he couldn’t manage the whole day without a snoozer.

By late afternoon, I felt an overwhelming sense of accomplishment and was really proud of myself. =) I even took pictures to share with you all.

#13 - Do Something Different With My Hair

As I eluded to on Facebook, and to a few of you via conversations and emails…I was ready for a hair change and I took the plunge last Thursday night.

There is a phenomenon known as the “post-wedding chop” and I have seen many the newlywed style their grown out “wedding hair” into a fun, low-maintenance short new hair-do. Well, I am totally and completely unable to chop off all my long hair. Don’t get me wrong, I love short hair…I’ve had short hair before, really short hair. The number one problem is that my hair grows so stinking fast that it is expensive to get haircuts all the time to keep it looking fresh and stylish. The other reason that I can’t chop it anytime soon is that DH might lock me out.

When I told him that I wanted to change up my hair, he said, “do whatever you want as long as you keep it long…please don’t cut it all off.” How could I argue his one request? So, I started to think about things I could do to change it up without wacking it all off.

First, I though about color…I’ve been a brunette, a redhead…I really can’t pull off being a blonde and I work in corporate America so blue, pink and green weren’t really options…that left something I’ve always thought about doing but never (at least since my Cure/Depeche Mode days in jr high/high school) really went for…Black!

So, I had decided on black, but since I can’t resist a fun highlight I went for an auburn thrill. That still left what to do for an actual style. I know, black might have been enough of a change, but I really wanted something new and fun. Well, what’s more fun than bangs? I actually brought in a picture of Alyssa Milano and her fun bangs and said…give me that.

Ok, ok, I know you are bored and just want to see a picture. Well, DH is the worst photographer in the world so this is all I have from the weekend. (I got to meet up with a good friend, albeit briefly, that was in town for the weekend from NY.) This isn't the best picture, but you can get the idea....

Are you planning to try out a new look for 2009?

Weekend Recap

Three-day weekends are such lovely things. I am so sad that this one is over. =( Not only was it relaxing, productive and fun…I didn’t have to get dressed up or travel anywhere! DH and I accomplished quite a bit around the house and in town.

Today is going to be full of new blog posts…normally I try to space them out, but I’m giving up. It’s feast or famin here people, all or nothing…and when it rains, it pours. So, hopefully you are having a slow day easing into the short week, or if you didn’t have the holiday, you are full swing into the week, bitter that you didn’t get the holiday. (It’s ok, I’ll be working in February on President’s Day and I’ll be completely bitter.) Either way, enjoy the catch up…my sad excuse for what pictures I do have and I can’t wait to hear all your wonderful, insightful, comical and fantastic comments.

I heart Facebook. (#47 – Reach out to a long lost friend.)

Yes, I really, really, really heart Facebook. Not just because I can keep tabs on exactly what folks from high school are doing at every moment of the day. Not just because I am saving the earth by sending virtual items to everyone I know. Not just because it satisfies my need to “tag” things. Not just because I can let everyone know whom and what I’m a fan of. Not just because I needed to know how many friends I actually have.

I heart Facebook because it unknowingly helped me accomplish one of my goals in my five-year plan. I’ve actually reconnected with a few old friends. I started just like the other 150 million users and posted some random stuff…looked for people I know…and started requesting friends and responding to requests. Then I started to think about people in my life whom I lost touch with, but still think about often. I did a few searches to try and find some of these folks and a few I found, but many I did not.

Then one day (alright, more than one because I’ve reconnected with a few long lost friends)…there was a request from a friend that I had been looking for, for ages. Well, why didn’t she pop up when I did a search for her? Hmm….well, maybe because during the time when we were long lost she went and got married, changed her name and didn’t retain her maiden name on facebook for folks like me trying to find them.

I’ve actually found a handful of old friends and really started emailing back and forth, catching up on the phone and arranging to meet up when we are in the same locale. There are two specifically that I am sooooo happy to have them actively back in my life. These gals were such close friends that I don’t understand how time and distance ever kept us apart. Now, I’m getting a chance to catch up with them on family, career, weddings, babies and all sorts of other fun happenings. It has been wonderful. I don’t think they are reading my blog, but I just wanted to share with you a simple thing that led to a big thing, that makes me really happy. =)

Have a good weekend…and for those of you who have asked…I will try to post pictures of my new hair-do soon. Yep, I did some new-fangled shiz with my hair and I LOVE it, lol.

#1. Move into a bigger house

Before I get you all excited…we didn’t buy a house and we aren’t moving, lol. As much as I wish I could be writing you that we purchased the 5 bedroom/3 bath/3 car garage house of our dreams, I am not. I am writing to tell you that I am currently obsessed with looking at the online listings for 5 bedroom/3 bath/3 car garage houses of my dreams (and some nightmares too).

Alas, right now it is just not in the cards for DH and I. Currently, we own two homes (one is rented) and a third mortgage in these economic times doesn’t sound like an exciting opportunity to me. Neither does trying to sell either or both of our current investments.

So, until the real estate market changes (either one way or the other) or we hit the lotto (I’m trying)…we’ll make do with our 2 bedroom/2 ½ bath/barely 2 car garage place.

However, if we did have a bigger house…and when we do…I am definitely going to re-create this room as my craft studio. Isn’t is ah-maz-ing?!?!?!

(source)

What dream room would you have in your new home?

2009

Ok, ok...I'm a total slacker. I'm also still tired from the holidays and our trip to BIL's Florida wedding.

I think after the gluttony that was the last couple months I need to concentrate on becoming a healthier me and dropping a few pounds. Anyone care to join me and we can push each other?

Soon enough I'll be back on the wagon, blogging away for all three of you. =) In the meantime I'm chugging away at my 5 year plan. Some progress has been made and although I should do separate entries for each one of these (and I may go back and do just that)...before I forget, here we go.

#12 - Own a laptop - DH and I received a brand spanking new laptop from Mom and Dad for Christmas. I have a feeling it is already more DH's than mine, but Santa gave it to both of us, so that counts.

#17 - Visit 10 states I've never been to - Florida!!!!! I got to enjoy the beautiful Dec/Jan weather in South Florida and do some major shopping, drinking and eating....the only thing that was missing was the sleep, lol.

#49 - Eat at 25 new restaurants - For New Year's Eve a group of us headed to Delray Beach and had a lovely dinner. The food was good, but it being a busy holiday and as part of a party of 16 or so...the experience left a little to be desired. Would have been much better with a group of 4 or 6 and not such a busy night. If it was less than 3000 miles away from home I would try it again sooner. 24 more new eats to go.

#91 - Inspire someone to start his or her own list - The lovely Erin has started her own list and I love it!!!! She's currently at 81 items and has it posted on her blog...and I'm excited to see her achieve all of her goals in the next five years. (Especially that red dress and another baby, lol.)

Thank you to you all for not totally abandoning me...I'm excited to hear from you all soon.

#42 - Send Holiday cards to friends and family

They are finally in the mail. I ordered them ages ago, and by ages I mean weeks, but I didn’t get them out in the mail until yesterday afternoon. I think that my lack of urgency has to do with a few key factors…one, I’m not entirely thrilled with them…two, I’m not entirely thrilled with the holidays…and three, did I mention I’m not entirely thrilled with them?

Next year I am going to plan ahead and design fantabulous holiday cards. Honestly, I think all my creative energy went into making the thank you notes for the wedding and the holiday cards got the short end of the stick. I wanted to do a set of amazing cards, but with the lack of dinero available and the lack of time until they had to be sent out…ah well, people look at them, maybe put them on a piano or mantle for a few weeks and then they go into the trash.

At least we are sending out cards…and I’ve accomplished one more item on my 5-year plan…#42, done.

Here is the picture we used for the card…it is from our rehearsal dinner. =) (Which was two months ago today.)

Updates Galore…#87, 40 & 15

I have been a little busy lately, but part of that being busy has been diligently working away at my 5-year plan. I have some great updates for you…specifically numbers 87, 40 and 15.

#87 – Pay off my library fines and start checking out books again.
The past few weeks I’ve been requesting books online via our local library catalog. They so wonderfully send you an email when they are ready for pick-up. So, this weekend, as I was out running errands, I swung by the library in my neighborhood and picked up my friends waiting on the shelf with my name on them. I also paid off all my fines and am completely current with the Sacramento library system. It’s not that I rack up major fines, or purposely return books late…what usually happens is that I am really into a book, someone else has a hold on it (so I can’t re-new it), and I am willing to pay the few cents a day to be able to finish up the story. The real problem is that I tend to do this quite often and those few cents add up. At least it is all going to a good cause…and I rationalize it by saying that it is still cheaper than buying the book. Well, now I’m squared away and hopefully I can be a better library patron and return my books on time.

#40 – Buy a Menorah every Hanukkah (1/5)
DH and I picked out our newest holiday decoration for our home…a very pretty Menorah. Sunday was the Hanukkah fair at DH’s Synagogue, so we headed over there and picked out our favorite. Although I’m not really feeling the Holiday season this year, it is nice to have pretty, twinkling lights, some much loved sentimental Christmas decorations and our menorahs in the house. It’s beginning to look a lot like Chrismukkah!

#15 – Not wear a ponytail for two weeks straight (7/14)
Today is day seven of not wearing a ponytail and it has actually been even more difficult than I thought it would. Yes, I am completely aware that it sounds superficial and quite transparent. However, I have promised that I will always be honest with you…and not throwing my hair back with a few hair ties to get it out of the way, is really out of my comfort zone.

I have a technicality that I need your help with though…what do I do with my hair at the gym? Am I allowed a reprieve? Is a bun allowed or does that violate the idea of the goal? Please help me out with this one.

Holidays

Since I’m feeling really lackluster these days and not much of anything interesting is happening….I’ll just blog about what is roaming around in my mind of late.

I feel guilty saying this, but I’m honestly not excited about the holidays. Some of you may say…no biggie, I’m never excited for the holidays and other may say, how can you NOT be excited? Well, I guess this has been a busy year and I’m just over it.

(source)

Don’t get me wrong…I am definitely looking forward to spending time with my family and having a few days off work, but I’m not thrilled about Christmas, Hanukah or New Year’s. I decorated the house, hoping that would help, not so much. I ordered our holiday cards, hmph…they don’t thrill me. It just feels lackluster. I know, I know…I’m totally whining and should focus on the things I am so lucky to have and be thankful.

The thing is, I am very thankful. After a year of spending money like a crazy woman, getting more beautiful items for our home than I ever thought possible and the economy causing my stress level to increase by the day…I guess I’m over the spending spirit. DH and I have decided not to exchange gifts…and when Mom asked me what I wanted over Thanksgiving, I actually told her socks. She looked at me a little silly and I proceeded to take my shoes off and show her my one navy blue sock and my one grey sock…and it wasn’t because I needed to do laundry. DH then took off his shoes and showed her his holey socks…we looked pretty pathetic. I’d say it’s a safe bet that we’ll both be really happy to have matching, non-holey socks come December 25th. Sure, I would love a new flashy purse or another pair of my favorite jeans, but I just don’t want anyone spending any more money on me this season…the economy scares me like Sarah Palin scares moose, you betcha.

(source)

So, although I’m definitely not a scrooge, I just don’t feel like decking the halls with lots of packages. Sorry if I’m a Debbie Downer, but I’m pretty sure that I’m not the only one out there who is feeling a little blue this winter. How are you all feeling about this holiday season?

(source)

I forgot to say thank you...

Did I forget to tell you that I finished all of our thank you notes? I guess it totally slipped my mind. =) We got them mailed out the day before Thanksgiving…so, I missed my goal of our one-month anniversary by a week. However, considering that my original plan of attack included working on them on the plan ride to and from Hawaii…and that got shot down really quick by DH…I think I did pretty well. Trying to keep them from sounding redundant was definitely the most difficult part. We got so many wonderful presents and I’m one of those freaks that actually enjoys writing notes of gratitude.

I know I’ve shown you the note cards I made before, but here’s a couple last pictures of a large grouping, all ready to go. The liners turned out great and I’ve gotten lots of wonderful compliments and comments on them. I think I may start making all of my own note cards! They are really easy to do and definitely bring the plain old note card up a notch. Paper is soooo expensive and cards can be ridiculous…these really aren’t expensive and all they take is just a little time and some creativity. (Great gift idea too!)

Tagged

I love being tagged and sweet Ashley from Polka Dot and Paisley tagged little ole me! =)

So, here are the rules and then me fulfilling them…

The rules:

1. Link to the person that tagged you

2. Post the rules on your blog

3. Share six non-important things/habits/quirks about yourself

4. Tag six random people at the end of your post by linking to their blogs

5. Let each random person know they have been tagged by leaving a comment on their website.

6. Let your tagger know when your entry is up.

The non-important randomness and quirks of me…

1. I am left-handed and I really like it. When I was a kid I hated it because scissors and binders were a pain in my arse (and my hand)…but as an adult it makes me feel like a member of the cool club. DH says he wishes he was a lefty and hopes that our kids are lefties…I guess the baseball pitcher in him will never die, lol. Are there any other southpaws out there?

2. I hate the sound of my own voice. In all capacities…this is the number one reason I didn’t want a videographer at the wedding or could never be a news anchor.

3. I hum. When I am sitting at my desk or just walking around thinking too hard, trying to figure out a problem, I hum. The quirk…and this is the first time I am telling anyone this…is that I usually hum one of five tunes. First, Tom’s Diner by Suzanne Vega (totally weird, I know). Next, A Few of My Favorite Things from the Sound of Music (oh, come on …you know you do too). Third, I Feel Pretty from West Side Story (ok, I love certain musicals, what can I say). I also hum that generic circus tune quite frequently, who knows why? Finally, and possibly the weirdest…Pomp and Circumstance (maybe it’s because I loved school, but even during our wedding rehearsal I was humming this commencement tune and got my Dad in on it as we were headed down the practice aisle).

4. I can’t get out of bed on the first, or even the second, snooze to save my life. Honestly, I need more like 4 or 5 snoozes to get me moving…if I hit the lotto, the first thing I would do is throw away my alarm clock.

5. I am deathly afraid of spiders. They scare the bejesus out of me and I honestly can’t sleep in a room where there is a spider. DH is very familiar with my “spider freak outs” and usually comes to my rescue…even if it is after a laugh or two at my expense.

6. I love getting my makeup done…even more than getting my nails or hair done, or having new things to wear or even getting a massage. I’m terrible at doing my own makeup and always have been. I can’t blend to save my life and usually end up only wearing powder and lip gloss. If I could have my make up done whenever I wanted I would love, love, love that.

So, now I get to tag six of you lovlies….don’t forget to let me know when you’re all posted. =)

Kate from Pretty Damn Fabulous
Julia from Just Jewls
Aron from Runner’s Rambles
Erin from The Evans Family
Stefanie from Stefanie’s Stories
Erica from In Case You Care

Hello Again

Not that anyone noticed, but I’ve been m.i.a. for the last week. I think a lot of us have been busy this past week, with the Thanksgiving holiday and the Christmas/Hanukah influx in full effect. Well, my reasons include those, but are a little selfish too.

I pretty much put everything on hold this past week to read the twilight series. Wow, I really need to go grocery shopping and clean our house (and catch up on blogging). =) Sometimes books do this to me and I become engrossed. I promise not to give anything away, but I am so sad there are only four books. Maybe, Stephenie Meyer will decide at some point to open up her heart and mind and give us a peak into the future of these characters. (I want more, lol.)

(source)

Unfortunately, the movie version is not only disappointing, but a completely failed attempt at capturing the magic and romance of the story. The acting is terrible, the casting horrific (with a couple exceptions) and the screenplay couldn’t have been more pathetically written….argh, so sad!

Now that I’m doing with this wonderful group of novels I need your help….what should I read next? I would love to hear your recommendations. Come on bookworms, show me your favorites…old and new alike.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Here I am coming to you live from M&D’s house in my hometown in the heart of the silicon valley. Today is a day of thanks…so I’d like to share some of the things I am thankful for.

I am thankful for my hometown… All you computer geeks can eat your heart out that growing up here meant…I learned to drive in the parking lot of HP…I had the same high school English teach as Jobs and the Woz (she used to tell the greatest stories about what their classes would do to torture subs)…you were the odd kid out if at least one of your parents didn’t work in “the industry” (and no that isn’t a euphemism for something dirty or L.A. based). My hometown is 40 minutes to the beach, 50 minutes to SF, but is still complete suburbia. I love exploring the ever changing and ever growing life of my hometown. However, the thing I love most of all about my hometown is that it is where M&D are and the house I grew up in.

I am thankful for my family…they are one wild and crazy bunch and I wouldn’t trade them in for anything. I am so excited to spend this holiday with them and get to eat my way through the day…enjoying all our family traditions.

I am thankful that I get to share it all with DH…this is the first Thanksgiving DH and I have ever spent together. Seriously, ever. In our 5 plus years we always spent the fourth Thursday of November with our own parents and families…and now we are always going to spend it together, just trading off whether the G’s or the K’s let us eat pounds of mashed potatoes and pumpkin pie.
I am thankful to have a blogging family made up of all of you…I enjoy reading about your lives and being inspired by all of the things you do. Thank you for letting me share my life with you, I hope that it at least puts a smile on your face or somehow makes your day better in some little way.

So, Happy Thanksgiving to you all…I wish you all health and happiness and a great turkey day!

Oh, Huey...

Ok, so I’m supposed to be working on my 100 things to accomplish in 5 years (and I swear I am), but in the hopes of Huey Lewis…I found a new drug. It’s called the twilight series. Now, join with me because I know I’m not alone in this addiction. DH is completely making fun of me for disappearing behind a book this week…and for flying through the first novel in the series….but oh….they are sooooo addictive.

(source)

If you haven’t read these yet or if you are just looking for a new guilty pleasure that doesn’t involve calories over the long upcoming weekend…use that coupon in your email box and run to your nearest book store. Or, ask around…chances are you have a handful of friends that have already read these books and are willing to let you borrow them. Trust me…you’ll fly through them so quickly you won’t be borrowing them for long. =)
I finished the first one last night and already started the second, title new moon. So, horseback riding and biographies will have to wait until I can get through my high on this new drug, lol.

First order of business

When you were younger did you ever write “life plans” for yourself? Things you wanted to get accomplished, where you wanted to be at a certain age, or even a letter to an older wiser you to remember the youth and energy of yore? Sixteen year old me had a very different vision of what 25 year old me would be than what actually turned out, lol. I attribute most of the dissimilarities to an idea that anyone over 21 was beyond mature, that earning a million was a snap and that I read way too many chick-lit books where the girl graduates from college, moves to NY and works for a magazine or pr agency or in advertising. Ok, well maybe I still read too many chick-lit books, but my life turned out to be way less The Devil Wears Prada and a whole lot more Bridget Jones. Well, now the first book is closed…I got the great guy, got the townhouse in the burbs and am well on my way to happily ever after….except, I know that all great chick-lit stories have a sequel or two in them…and I’m thinking my story is no different. So, why not write out a new plan for my life…amended from sixteen year old me to thirty year old me. Kate has inspired me with her grand list of things to accomplish and I’m going to help her get at least one thing crossed off her list and start my own.

So, ladies and DH (I don’t think there are any other gents out there reading this)…here is list of the 100 things I want to accomplish in the five-year plan. They are by no means in any particular order…they are actually jumbled all around. I hope I can inspire you to make your own list. =)

100 Things to get done in my 5 year plan.

1. Move into a bigger house.
2. Sell at least one house.
3. Become a Mom.
4. Make a trust or will.
5. Clean my closet.
6. Get a cell phone with Internet service.
7. Attend a Pez convention.
8. Catalog my Pez collection.
9. Go skydiving.
10. Get a passport.
11. Go somewhere with my passport.
12. Own a laptop.
13. Do something different with my hair.
14. Buy another pair of my favorite jeans.
15. Not wear a ponytail for two weeks straight. (0/14)
16. Drink a bottle of Silver Oak with loved ones.
17. Visit 10 states I’ve never been too (0/10).
18. Put together a birthday calendar.
19. Bowl a perfect game on Wii.
20. Put an entire paycheck straight into savings.
21. Go on a girl’s weekend with only Mom and I.
22. See Wicked.
23. Go horseback riding.
24. Pay the bridge toll for the person behind me.
25. Plant a tree.
26. Grow vegetables.
27. Grow lavender.
28. Throw/Attend a Birthday party in my honor.
29. Go to a professional football game with DH.
30. Give blood without fainting.
31. Attend a taping of Oprah.
32. Re-try 3 foods I don’t like to see if my tastes have changed. (0/3)
33. Write a thank you note to the Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Dept.
34. Sew a quilt.
35. Crochet something for myself.
36. Take a crochet class to further my skills.
37. Use ALL the yarn in the closet.
38. Finish cross-stitching two more Christmas stockings. (0/2)
39. Have a Christmas tree.
40. Buy a Menorah every Hanukah. (0/5)
41. Send Valentine’s Day cards to friends and family.
42. Send Holiday cards to friends and family.
43. Send 12 cards via snail mail for no particular reason. (0/12)
44. Not eat French Fries for an entire month.
45. Not drink soda for an entire month.
46. Lose 10 pounds. (0/10)
47. Reach out to an old friend.
48. If and when I do something wrong, apologize.
49. Eat at 25 new restaurants. (0/25)
50. Volunteer at least 5 times. (0/5)
51. Donate something at least 25 times. (0/25)
52. Visit Miss R. everywhere she lives in the next 5 years, at least once.
53. Start wearing a watch.
54. Give myself an “out” for one item on this list.
55. Find a candidate I feel strongly enough about to campaign for, not against.
56. Memorize all of the state capitals.
57. Read 5 biographies of people I admire. (0/5)
58. Pay 10 strangers compliments. (0/10)
59. Send flowers to someone for no particular reason.
60. Go to the gym 5 days a week for 4 weeks straight. (0/20)
61. Go on a picnic.
62. Write down 50 quotes/lyrics I love. (0/50)
63. Experience Yosemite as an adult.
64. Write out a family tree for my future children.
65. Make a list of another 100 things for the next five years.
66. Back up all my digital pictures on my computer.
67. Get back to Vegas, soon!
68. Convince DH to shave his goatee.
69. Participate in a book club.
70. Be 100% happy in the moment and take note of it.
71. Write a letter from 30 year old me to 40 year old me.
72. Go on a girl’s trip (that means no boys allowed).
73. Get prescription sunglasses.
74. Get our wedding album in my hands.
75. Refresh and re-do the “photo wall.”
76. Put together a scrapbook.
77. Get new drapes for down stairs.
78. Send a care package.
79. Buy a piece of art.
80. Throw a dinner party.
81. Bake cookies or treats for neighbors.
82. Not leave the house for an entire weekend and not be sick.
83. Re-read the entire Harry Potter series in order. (0/7)
84. Read ten books I’ve never read that are considered “classics.” (0/10)
85. Keep blogging post-wedding.
86. Use a skin care regimen for 60 days straight. (0/60)
87. Pay off my library fines and start checking out books again.
88. Buy myself a bicycle.
89. Write down 25 things that make me happy. (0/25)
90. Change my name.
91. Inspire someone to start his or her own list.
92. Bake a carrot cake from scratch.
93. Get DH a dog.
94. Buy new furniture for the house.
95. Put my feet in the Atlantic Ocean.
96. Throw a Super Bowl party.
97. Go swimming in our pool.
98. Get a raise.
99. Take 5 day-trips completely for fun. (0/5)
100. One open spot to add an item I’m sure I forgot.

And On We Go...

With new beginnings come new things….

You will start seeing some changes here on the blog…starting with a new name. I have loved writing about all things wedding planning and wedding. However, now that the wedding is over, the thank you notes are almost done and the honeymoon tan is fading…it is time to look ahead. I figure that now is as good a time as any to start fresh. Don’t worry, I will still finish our wedding re-cap and promised to post about any wedding items you request I am excited to share with you what happens after the wedding is over and married life begins….as I see what life, love, career and time have in store for me.

So….and on we go!

Food

I grew up in a family of people who love food. We aren’t food snobs…we just love food. I’m sure this isn’t a surprise to you if you read the post about my bridal showers because there were equal parts written about the food and everything else. We also like taking pictures of the food. DH also grew up in a family of people who love food. They have a family tradition, albeit totally sub-conscience, of always talking about the next meal during the current one. So, imagine my non-shock when I scanned through all of the pictures, both professional and non-professional, and there were pictures of almost all the different dishes available, lol.

I already spilled the beans on the alcohol because I couldn’t help but post about that angle and also those great pictures. However, I don’t believe I’ve mentioned much on the food previously.

Our menu started out during the cocktail hour on the patio with passed appetizers. I thought ahead and asked the venue to have platter of these tasty treats available on the head table because I knew DH and I, and most of the bridal party, would not be able to slow down long enough to grab a bite. The three different morsels we offered our guests were bruschetta, spanakopita and chicken satay with peanut sauce…they were all very tasty. DH’s favorite was the bruschetta and mine was the spanakopita, but they were all so good!

Next up was a mixed green salad…it was yummy, but I have to admit that I only got a bite or two before DH had it cleared not realizing I was just up talking, not up and finished.


Finally dinner arrived. We had an issue with the venue on the dinner service and they just couldn’t seem to get their act together. I wasn’t fully aware of the situation until after the fact…so my advice to brides out these…as much as everyone says don’t worry about it, worry about it…I wish I had known so I could have spoken up in the moment.

Once everyone got their food, they enjoyed either a chicken, fish or veggie entrée. The fish was definitely the best of the three in my opinion…how do I know you ask? Well, I had the fish…a few bites until I was full and ran off to enjoy the party. I ate some tortellini at about 3:30 in the morning…along with a few bites of the chicken. Oh, and I also took an informal, un-scientific poll. Nonetheless, they all looked pretty.


A little later in the evening, it was onto cake. We had two different flavors…carrot cake (our mutual favorite) and white cake with vanilla custard (classic wedding selection). They were both delicious, I honestly didn’t get to eat a full piece until after the wedding, but I did have a few bites as seen below. The cake was delicious!!!!!

All this talk about food is making me hungry…how about you?

Change is in the air

I'm getting a little excited....there is a change coming...something I've been getting ready for...check in on Monday for a little announcement.

In the meantime...I am drawing a blank as to what else about the wedding you all want to hear about. I love, love, love the comments I got and I hope I fulfilled your request for all things photo booth and details. How about the rest of you? Or those of you that got your first request...anything else? I really don't want to bore you, but I also don't want to leave you hanging. Please let me know. So, some of you lurkers out there...Mom, M, J, V, DH and a few others...do it anonymously if you are identity phobic. =)

Guest Book/Wish Book

Let me be upfront and say that our “wish book” ended up being one of my biggest disappointments. I’m not being a complainer…I’m just being honest and forthright. I won’t sit here and tell you that our day was without flaws or that I wouldn’t have changed anything. That’s like telling you Vogue doesn’t airbrush or fat-free cheese melts perfectly fine. I won’t lie to myself and I won’t lie to you. Did we have a wonderful day? Yes. Am I still married to the man of my dreams? Yes. Was everything on October 18th perfect? Nope.

I love the concept of a wish book. I’m always apprehensive of the photo mat…worried that some drunk friend will think they are funny, when they are just being crude. Or a traditional guest book…that just goes in a box and no one ever looks at. I wanted those cute little notes to put in a scrapbook, along with cards and pictures, to get a full vision of our special day/time.

The cards were printed at home with the words, Wishes, Advice and Stories, on them. With my handy-dandy little corner rounder, I clipped all those puppies. An explanation was printed, placed in a frame and displayed for everyone. Add one gorgeous vase and voila…a wish book is made.

Now, if only people had filled out the cards. I had 300 cards and only about 20 were filled out. I even took some of them to a gathering of girlfriends after the fact to try to get them to write up a little something…nada. =(

My vision of a scrapbook filled with wise words, lovely wishes and memorable anecdotes did not come to fruition.

However, we did get a couple funny ones that reinforced our decision to not do a photo mat. My personal favorite “funny” one is of particular interest for the 49er fans out there…it said… “If you are ever in doubt while having an argument, throw the review flag. –Mike Nolan”

Snippitts, details and other little known things

This is just a random post of random things and random thoughts

I love that the bridesmaids all picked totally different shoes…different styles, different heights, all totally cool. This is one of my favorite pictures…my friends are all so unique and although they might have all been wearing the same dress, they rocked out their own personal styles and one way you can see that is in their shoes.

See that yellow bag in the background? I adore that that yellow bag is in the pictures of me getting dressed. DH bought me that bag for my 30th birthday…it is the limited edition Kate Spade Sacramento store bag. There are only 50 in the world and I have number 33. =) I think it is perfect that whenever I look at these pictures I will see that thoughtful gift too.

I don’t know about you, but when I look through someone else’s wedding pictures and I see a picture full of emotion I really, really want to know what exactly was going through that person’s mind at that very moment. Being that I wear my emotions on my sleeve and am sooooo easy to read I have tons of these...I thought I would share at least one with you…this was taken during the BM’s toast to DH (his older brother) and I. He is a great public speaker and had the perfect balance of sentimentality and humor to get the crowd totally into it. At this very moment he had just told 180 of our closest family and friends that the first time DH and I really met was when I arrived at his house, after a St. Patty’s Day pub crawl, after 18 bars…yep, while that is definitely how I roll, I’m not sure that’s how I wanted M&D to find out the circumstances about how we really met, thanks new little brother!

When I was little my Mom convinced my brother and I that her car wouldn’t start unless the seat belts were buckled in…this is just another untruth she convinced us of in our youth (I have many other examples, but I’ll save them for another time). Well, as I was piling my dress into the passenger seat of my Dad’s car to head to the venue Mom wouldn’t let my Dad go until I had my seatbelt buckled. Normally, I am steadfast and diligent when it comes to obvious things like seatbelts and looking both ways….but, let me tell you…we were running late and that dress was slightly awkward to sit in, much less squeeze into a car and be belted in. That did not matter to Mom in the slightest…so, here she is making sure I’m all buckled in…or else the car wouldn’t start.

I absolutely love this picture…I honestly do not remember DH carrying my train for me, but I love that Miss V caught it on her camera. He was so cute all night…I distinctly remember as Miss V was bustling me, he said…”Babe, don’t look at the bottom of your dress. It’s so dirty, I don’t want you to get upset.” Isn’t that the cutest?

I’ve already told you that I didn’t get to drink very much at the wedding…well, at least I got to enjoy my two favorite beverages in the whole world…champagne and diet coke. Of course there is a picture of my two favorite liquid treats at the head table…am I the only bride out there who was feigning for some caffeine and bubbles?

Our photographer is a total and complete genius for many, many reasons…one of which is hiding my hideous cry face. Once my Dad and I started walking down the aisle I was so completely overwhelmed by emotion I morphed into a really ugly, pained version of my made up self. I do not remember music being played (I did notice a lot else of what was going on, but that’s another post)…I only know that I couldn’t stop smiling and yet was trying not to cry at the same time. That combination makes for a not-so-pretty face. The fact that Sarah was able to get gorgeous pictures in between me looking like a beast during a full moon is amazing to me.

The phrase I heard the most at the wedding bar none was, “You look just like your Mom.” Now, I think a big part of this was that I had the collage frame of our parent’s and grandparent’s wedding portraits, but still…I have never heard from so many different people in such a short time frame that I look “just like” my Mom. It was funny…I know I look like my Mom, she’s my Mom, lol. I would have loved it if everyone went up to her and said, “You look just like your daughter.” Hahaha…maybe I’m totally odd, but that would really have cracked me up.


Here is a picture of the Dad’s checking out the collage frame of their own respective wedding day’s. I have no idea what they are talking about, but I’m guessing is has something to do with either the fashion trends of the mid-seventies or reminiscing of hair lines of yore.


Right before we headed out of the bridal room, the girl’s had a champagne toast and I took a deep breath. We kicked everybody out…so the only folks in the room were my bm’s, me and Dad. We got on the subject of tan lines and I had to have my Dad show his off to the girls. It is famous within our family and my brother and I have long rolled our eyes at Dad’s sock tan. It honestly looks like he is wearing socks….it is his badge of how much he golf’s honor. He’s going to kill me, but I have to show you all because we got a picture.

I want to caption this one…tux rental $149…bottle of champagne before you walk your daughter down the aisle $25…showing off your sock tan line to make her best friends giggle, priceless.

That Poem Thing...

Yes, the something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue and a sixpence in your shoe. Yes, “that poem thing.”

Since the honeymoon is over, the recap that is, lol. You’ve heard all about the rehearsal. You’ve even gotten the sneak peak and the slide show from the photographer. What’s left? Ha, ha…of course, the wedding.

First up is my something old…no, not me…although that might count. =) My something old is a family heirloom that I inherited when my Grandma passed away. It is an engagement ring from 1890 that has been passed through my family. I had it sized to fit the middle finger of my right hand so that I can enjoy wearing it on special occasions. My wedding day definitely counts as a special occasion.

(source)

Something new…there was quite a bit that was new…my shoes, my dress, my hair comb, my earrings, etc. Let’s go with the earrings because they are so incredibly pretty and I love them so…swoon.

(source)

Something borrowed…the veil…it is my cousin’s and she was gracious enough to let me borrow it. Turns out I wasn’t the only one who borrowed something from this particular cousin that night…I think that altogether there were 4 or 5 of us with items of clothing borrowed from her.

(source)

Something blue…this was the hardest one for me…I just couldn’t decide. Finally I went with the dress patch. You may remember that I was none too pleased with the first dress patch I ordered and after lamenting to family and friends, Mom said that I should order another one so I was happy. Once again, Mom was right. I love the second dress patch.

(source)

My sixpence is another piece of family tradition…I asked my parents if either of them had one, since they stopped being made in 1967. Mom immediately leaves the room and comes back with a couple mason jars of coins. In which were over 20 sixpence (does that make 120 pence, lol). All of these coins were my Grandpa’s that he collected while in the Navy during World War 2. Isn’t that a great story! I picked a couple out, Dad cleaned them up for me and ta-da…that poem thing was complete.

Source...my camera...probably Miss V taking it. =)

The Dress

I’ve never blogged about my dress before. The main reason for that is DH will occasionally peruse this blog looking to see what I’ve divulged to the cyber world and I wasn’t going to chance that he might happen upon it. Also, as much as they never comment, there are a few lurkers out there that did attend my wedding and I wanted to have some surprises. I also have a theory that, much like baby names, if you tell/show people before the actual event, you might not like the response others have to give you. After the fact no one says negative things and you glow 100% untainted. (Oh, and some children have names like Wilbur and Fifi.)

I tried on over 60 different dresses…I think that’s pretty much every non-strapless dress under $1200 between Trudy’s, Bella Donna and House of Fashion combined. In that mix of v-neck, off the shoulder, cap sleeve and halter designs, I found quite a few I liked. I also found quite a few that the dislike was mutual.

To be honest, I never had that experience of “the one.” Not that I don’t love my dress and wouldn’t go back and pick it again, but there were no choirs singing, birds chirping, spotlight beaming or gasps from surrounding strangers when I put it on for the first time. My analytical, researched based mind just kept going back to the same one. Trust me, I analyzed…I even took a non-scientific poll of bridesmaids, parents and a few trusted friends. Then, what I realized, was that whatever dress I picked would be “my one” and that would be that. When the whole group was 50/50 over two different dresses the decision really came down to me. That makes sense…it being my wedding dress and all. Well, the one I picked just kept coming into my head whenever I would close my eyes and see myself going through our special day. I guess I just couldn’t imagine not wearing that dress and that was the one I should have. (I do have to say though, that when I put it on for my Mom and Aunt J at the salon the week of the wedding, I did hear magical gasps. They were Mom and Aunt J, not strangers, but it was even better that way.)

You’ve already seen the dress in the professional pictures, but let me show you a few of the runners up just for s&g’s.



These two had Mom and I rolling for days…sometimes the dress just takes over…I stared at my Mom when I tried on the first one and said…if you don’t stop laughing, I’m going to make you try it on…she just laughed more.



Then I found my dress…I actually tried it on at three different bridal salons. In case you are wondering…when I tried it on for my Mom for the first time, she told me that was the dress. I asked her how she knew…said that I couldn’t stop smiling and that with most of the other dresses I had a sourpuss on my face. (And the train is what sold me, lol.)

How could I not love a dress that has him looking at me this way…swoon!

It is a Casablanca, style 1860 for those of you who are curious. The pictures on the website of the model look a little odd…she has no curves and no breasts either, but the dress is made for an hourglass for sure!

Side note for trivia reasons…I had never seen another bride in this dress (one more reason to love it) and then, one day, I’m reading wedding bee for the latest Mrs. Pom post and there is gorgeous Mrs. Cupcake in our gorgeous dress. Of course Mrs. Pom and I both gushed over how pretty it photographs and how excited I was to wear it. =) It didn’t matter that another bride was wearing our dress, I realized that it made me love the dress even more.

My tip for those of you still shopping for dresses, find your shoes before you order your dress. Most dress-makers will do a custom hollow-to-hem for no additional charge and it will save you cash on not needing a hem.

One Month

It is hard to believe that a month has already passed since we've been married. I keep thinking about what we were doing at this time one month ago today.

Honestly, not much has changed...not even my name yet, legally. I guess that is a sign of a good relationship...we seamlessly moved from dating to marriage.

We joke about what celebrity marriages we've outlasted already in only a month..so far we've passed up:

Britney and Jason Alexander
Cher and Gregg Allman
Dennis Hopper and Michelle Phillips
Drew Barrymore and Jeremy Thomas


Only 2 1/2 more months and we'll be married longer than Nicolas Cage and Lisa Marie were. Honestly, I'm shooting more for the likes of the Cosby's, Tom Hanks and Rita Wilson, Michael J. Fox and Tracy Pollan orJulie Andrews and Blake Edwards....all 20 years plus, and then some in certain cases.


Is it healthy to compare our longevity to celebrities? Probably not...but it's funny when the waiter comes over, asks how long you've been married...and your husband responds..."Longer than Britney's first, but haven't made it past the second yet."


Happy One Month DH, I love you more than anything!

The Devil is in the details...Part 2

There are so many more details I can share with you…if I am boring you or if there is something specific you’d like to see or hear more about, please let me know! =)

Here we go…

Table Names…I shared a while ago that our table names were the names of our favorite restaurants, with short descriptions and our favorite dishes. Now you get to see them in action! They turned out great…even better than I had anticipated. M&D also custom made the stands…they cut, painted and drilled a small hole in each of the cubes and also painted and curled each of the metal wires. We actually got a lot of compliments on these and a few people were walking around checking out what other restaurants we used. I actually had one guest come up to me and while we were talking say that we all needed to go to one of the restaurants together because they love it too, lol. It was a fun idea and a definite conversation starter among tablemates.

Handkerchief …this isn’t something anyone I know made, but to carry it with me on our wedding day was very special to me. This handkerchief was made at a lace school in Italy and was a gift from my Aunt and Uncle to me from one of their trips. I have had it for almost 10 years and have never used it…I guess I was waiting for a special occasion. =)

Snow globe…you’ve all seen it before, but isn’t it lovely…I wanted to show it off again. Those personal details are really what make each wedding unique.

Cake table items…along with the engraved cake servers were also wooden letters from one of my favorite stores in Chico, Magna Carta. We purchased the K & D…and now they are on our mantel at home. (See Mom, I’m reusing stuff!)

Alcohol…This really isn't a crafy detail, but I don't know where else to talk about it in the recap...we actually got a lots of comments and compliments on the alcohol selection. It the very beginning of planning we decided not to have hard alcohol available…there were a variety of reasons for this choice, but it was something both DH and I firmly agreed upon. However, we wanted as much variety in the beer and wine offered as possible. One of the reasons I loved our venue was the broad selection they were able to offer. We had four different Bogle wines, around ten different beers and sparkling wine available the entire evening. I wish I had gotten to enjoy more, but I know our guests had enough to compensate for me. =)

There are lots more to come! (I think I'll even post another later today.)

The Devil Is In The Details...Part 1

However, so are all my blood, sweat and tears, lol.

I somehow knew that I would get a request for lots of detail shots and all the diy projects. I’m probably going to have to split this up into a multi-post session because there is so much I want to share with you all.

How about if we start out with the do-it-yourself projects that have my parents thanking their lucky stars they only have one daughter and me glad I am pretty handy with a glue stick and a crop-a-dile.

Escort Cards and Trays…I’ve shown you before the inspiration and execution of these labors of love, but now I get to show you them in action.

Not only did Dad hand craft these gorgeous trays, but the envelopes are water marked by me, written on by Mom and Aunt J, cards are hand embossed by Mom and all together a labor of love. Not pictured, but this is also where we put the photo share cards for the guest to post their pictures on Shutterfly.

I’ve shown you the favors before also, but not with the gorgeous tags that were a lot easier than I thought. I used some handy dandy scrap booking tools, invited a friend over to help tie them on, and voila, olive oil bottles done. Notice that the tags match the seal on the invitation…I loved pulling certain elements throughout the entire event. (For the record: we did get asked what was in the bottles…olive oil or massage oil. My response was, well…it is olive oil, but what you use it for once you get home is none of my business.)

You haven’t seen the programs until now so here they are…I cut all of the paper, printed the insert at home, cut out the tags, glued them on, then sewed the whole thing together. (If anyone needs orange thread, I have a ton left over.) I created a template for these too and would be more than happy to share if you’re interested.

A last minute addition, and one I completely love are our wedding signs. I scoured bios and blogs for the perfect example to show M&D. Thank goodness for the knotties because they found me exactly what I was looking for. I emailed the pictures to Mom and ta-da M&D come through again with another DIY miracle. They made two signs…one pointed each way and they were placed to help guide the guests to the pavilion, rather than through the reception hall.

(source...Aunt J took this picture)

The bag for our glass…was made by my Mom. (It also matches the beautiful table runners she sewed, look under the trays.) We picked out the material together…then my Mom had me pick out a button as a closure. Side note…my Mom collects buttons and this one happened to be from my Grandma…it’s those touches that I love. Seriously, everything throughout the day has a story like that.

There are lots more details to come...(Anybody have anything specific in mind I haven't touched on yet?)...To be continued...

Photo Booth

Some of you spoke and I am listening…I’m also trying to listen for the rest of you out there, but it’s awfully quiet…chirp, chirp.

However, the lovely and talented Stefanie K. of Stefanie’s Stories did request that I recap about the photo booth…so that’s up first.

The illustrious photo booth was a last minute addition. I had blogged about how much I really, really wanted a photo booth, but couldn’t add it to the budget and make it work. Well, a very talented birdie offered to do one for us and set it up with a tripod and a light and then have the pictures afterwards. Well, I did as any good analyst does and I made all sorts of pro/con lists and got really, really serious about my research. I also had DH talk to some friends that had a photo booth at their wedding back in April.

(source)

So, the two of us did a lot of thinking and it all boiled down to DH’s question to me…are you going to regret not having it or spending the money? Well, since we got the photo booth I think you know my answer. (Note to all brides still planning: it has been my experience that in the last few weeks of planning the budget tends to get a lot more gray than it was, say 6 months prior.)

DH only put one restriction on me booking the photo booth…I had to keep it a secret from our guests! The only folks on the guest list that knew about it were the friends we consulted with…other than that, nobody knew. (Yep, even Mom was kept in the dark until just before and I was bursting with excitement.)

I hit up a Halloween store and devoured quite a few hats, noses, glasses, boas and leis…seriously, a whole laundry basket full of items. =) Then I had to get a pretty basket that would fit all of these items. I would say that all together I spent about $80 on the props and basket, definitely worth it!

The photo booth that we rented was from Party Booths and was recommended by previous customers. We decided on the larger booth, which they say fits 6/7 comfortably…well, that depends on how cozy you want to be. I have pictures with anything from one to ten people. I would say that their estimate of 6-7 is appropriate, but you can see the individuals the best with around four. We also decided to go for the six hour rental so that we could really enjoy it the entire time. With over 100 pictures, I would say that is was very well enjoyed. =)

Who enjoyed it the most? My cousins seemed to frequent the booth quite often, but my Mom really got in on the fun. Next time she says that the night went by so quickly and she didn’t get to spend enough time with everyone I’m going to email her ALL of the booth photos she is in. I digress…people got pretty creative with the props and their poses. I completely adore looking at these photos. Oh, and as the night went on…the inhibitions went too, lol.

The only thing I’m disappointed about with the booth is that DH and I didn’t do more pictures…I went in a few times, but DH only went in once and that was with me. We were so busy that we didn’t get in the booth repeatedly. Also, I think the popularity of the photo booth indirectly lead to the demise of my guest book (more on that later). Also, although we do have over 100 pictures, not everyone got in…you can’t make people take advantage, but I absolutely love the pictures we do have. If I were to do it all again I would definitely book the photo booth…worth every penny.

So, without further ado…here is a sampling of my favorites. =)

Stef…is that what you were looking for? Thank you soooo much for always commenting and being such a great “blog friend.” =)

Next up..lots and lots of details!

Let Your Voice Be Heard!!!!!

Well, I want to give you all what you want…so my question of the day is…

What part or “stuff” from the wedding do you want to hear about?

I love getting comments on the blog and I don’t want to bore you. Thus, I will skip around however you desire…stick to topics of interest…and pull together pictures of what you want to see. Please let me know!!!

This means ALL of you who have so wonderfully let me know that you read my random rambling here and there, even you lurkers who can comment without a blogger account …I’ll wait a few days and then if I don’t hear from any of you, I might start calling you out, lol. (I’m cruel like that sometimes.)

So, for now I’ll give you some of what I know you are so hungry for…DETAILS.

The Oddities

Okay, for the last few days you have patiently read about our dream honeymoon in Hawaii. Well, although everything looked utterly amazing and dreamy….it doesn’t mean there weren’t odd points along the way.

I now share with you the, let us say, outtakes or oddities of our Hawaiian vacation.

Spam. Need I say more? This form of processed canned who-knows-what is EVERYWHERE in Hawaii. Totally weirded me out.

Chickens and roosters…again, they are everywhere. Why do they eat Spam?

Sand sweepers. I understand that it is nice to keep the walkway pristine. However, is it necessary to hire a fleet of people to sweep the walkway? The walkway is attached to the beach. Just struck me as interesting. (It’s like a zamboni for the sidewalk.)

We only saw one license plate, on a car, that wasn’t a Hawaiian license plate. What state was it from you ask? Louisiana. If you know me, you know the irony. We really need to go on more vacations.

I am my Father’s daughter…so maybe I’m the oddity in this case. As we are driving through Oahu, DH and I spot this shop…and I have to take a picture. I then call my parents and tell them about it. Mom starts laughing hysterically…why, you ask…well, apparently they have the EXACT same picture from their last trip here. Yep, I’m definitely the oddity here.

Stop signs…I thought they were always red? DH made me take a picture.

I had a friend ask why we didn’t have too many pictures of DH and I together. I replied that whenever I ask strangers to take pictures of us they turn out crappy. She says that in her trips those are some of her favorite pictures…well, I want those strangers on my vacations because this is what we usually end up with.

Mahalo!!!!!

Hey You...Come Back!

We've been blogged! The genius that is Sarah Maren has posted our pictures on her blog. While I'm busy writing up recaps to entertain myself with (and hopefully you like them too), please enjoy the slideshow.

Oh, and don't mind that noise you hear coming from the greater Sacramento area...that's just me swooning.

http://blog.sarahmarenphotography.com/

Honeymoon...Part Three...This is a Long One

Don't say I didn't warn you...this is a long one!

Saturday morning we bid farewell to Oahu and jumped on a small plane to Maui. I know since I’m the last person in the free world to visit Maui this is no surprise to all of you, but seriously, Maui is what I hope heaven looks like. It is the closest to an ultimate paradise that I’ve ever experienced. Not only is it beyond beautiful, but just this peaceful calm comes over you. It is physically impossible to be miserable in Maui.

We stayed at the Grand Wailea and now I am ruined for not only all other resorts, but for any other area in Maui, lol. I have a smile on my face just thinking about it. Let me rewind a bit and then I’ll gush more about the resort.

So, goodbye Oahu – hello Maui. We headed to the car rental location and for the second time on so many islands we were offered a free upgrade on our vehicle. I think that the car rental places just book your reservation without regard as to how many cars they have. In Honolulu we were upgraded to a full size vehicle, aka the Chevy Impala. In Maui, we were upgraded to a Jeep Wrangler…let me state that I expressed my concern up front. These were fabulously fun cars in high school…now, they seem really loud, bumpy and not exactly theft proof. I know I am getting old, but since we knew we weren’t doing the road to Hana…did we need a Jeep? (side note: no road to Hana for me…when I was little I told my parents I wanted to be an astronaut…their response, honey…you might want to get over being car sick first. Lesson: I’m still not able to pursue my former dream of being an astronaut.) Unfortunately there aren’t any pictures of this particular upgrade. I think in part to me being too busy whining to pull out my camera. In all actuality, we didn’t really need a rental car and next time we go to Maui we probably won’t spend the money. (More cash for spa treatments and Mai Tai’s.)

Honestly, the days all ran together in Maui…I will try to give the run through like I did for Oahu, but it seriously was like being in a dream world.

The first thing that happened when we arrived at the resort was that we got lei’d, lol…oh, and we had to check out the gorgeous sunset ocean view from our room.

I’m a sucker for little soaps and lotions, and I definitely wasn’t disappointed…DH thinks I’m crazy for taking this picture. (He’s probably at least partially right.) =)

After we checked out the room, we walked around a little and tried to let it all sink in, then we were off to dinner. Just down the way from all the resorts in Wailea are the Shops at Wailea (creative naming, huh?). That was seriously the nicest ABC store we saw. Oh, and they have a Betsy Johnson boutique so I was putty. We grabbed a bite and drank our way through dinner…chatting up our server and some other local diners on the “things not to miss” while we were in Maui. We got tons of ideas and will have to make many visits to get to accomplish it all.

Sunday was our lazy day…we couldn’t help but wake up early every morning. I don’t know if it was the time difference or the fact that we were on vacation, but bright and early we’d be wide awake. Well, Sunday morning football starts at 7 over there, so relaxing in the room watching a game is a great way to start any day.

After that, we decided to make it an entire lazy day and enjoy what the Grand Wailea had to offer. We started out with breakfast…I love being able to eat both an omelet and miso soup at the same meal, lol.

Then it was off to a little walk around the grounds and checking out the pools and wedding chapel.

There was actually a wedding brunch going on outside the chapel while we were walking by. Such an intimate affair…only a handful of people at one table. (A little different than our 180 person party.)

DH is a fish lover, as if you didn’t know that already, so I was instructed to take lots of pictures of the gorgeous koi everywhere.

The view on our walk was seriously heaven.

So many interesting flora that you don’t see at home.

More fish for DH.

And us with the fish, lol.

After that I went upstairs and put the camera away. We headed to the pools and had a brilliant day lounging, sliding and drinking…did I mention they have a swim up bar? Oh, and leave it to us to meet northern California folks everywhere we go. It went something like this…are you the guy that was wearing a Cal Poly shirt?…yeah, did you go to SLO?…no, I grew up in Morro Bay…cool. Um, what are the odds?

Later that night we ate at Kincha, a traditional Japanese restaurant, and pigged out on sashimi, sushi and all the other yummy treats they had to offer. I totally recommend this place, I should actually go yelp it. =)

Early the next morning I headed off to my favorite part of the Grand Wailea resort…the spa. I had an amazing volcanic ash and volcanic stone massage. Oh, and the terme baths there are unbelievable. I seriously can not say enough good things about this place. After my massage, DH wanted to make use of the rental car and see another part of Maui….we headed off to Lahaina to check out what it had to offer. My navigation skills and DH’s direction taking ability had drastically improved by this point so we enjoyed a relaxing drive and another gorgeous day in Maui.

When we got to Lahaina we checked out some of the history…some of the shops and galleries…and of course ate.

Our view from lunch at BJ’s (yep, the pizza place, although we didn’t have pizza).

Some more walking around…

Then back to Wailea for us…and some relaxation (and planning for the next day’s adventure) before our nice dinner out.

Yep, I said nice dinner out. Now, let me clarify for those two of you on the mainland that haven’t been to Maui before me. =) Everything in Maui is nice if you account by price alone. Everywhere you go and eat is pricey. So, DH and I worked up a theory that if you are going to spend the money…why not eat good food? So, breakfast was usually either nothing or a bagel and cream cheese. Lunch was usually a salad, a sandwich or a burger (turkey for me). Then, for dinner, we would go big.

That night was Ruth’s Chris. I know what you are saying…why would you go there in Maui…you could have it here…you don’t eat steak…there are so many other great restaurants. Well, true….but Ruth’s Chris did not disappoint and it was new for DH and I since we had never been there. (Neither of us going to a place is often a rarity, so we take full advantage of experiencing something for the first time together.) Oh, and for the record…DH had the filet, I had a lobster tail, we split the mashed potatoes and our amazing server treated us to a delicious apple dessert.

Are you wondering what that “planning the next day’s adventure” comment back there meant? =) Being the savvy planner and great wife, lol, that I am…I booked us two tickets on a snorkeling tour of Molokini and turtle town. Savvy may not be the right word….unless you get upgraded to an awesome boat, save your new husband a fortune with that upgrade and decide to try snorkeling again even though you weren’t too thrilled with the first time because he loves it soooo much.

Even too early for us, we drove over to the port to catch our catamaran and head out for the day’s adventure. Shocker of all shockers happened…I loved snorkeling. I even stayed out there longer than DH did. =) The fish were EVERYWHERE!!! The schools just swam all around you and the water was clear all the way to the bottom (approx. 35 ft.) and I barely drank any water leaving plenty for the fish this time.

After Molokini we headed to turtle town and yep, you guessed it, swam with the turtles. My only regret is not getting the underwater camera so I could have pictures. It was unlike anything I had ever done before…so much fun! (Side story…as much as I wanted to be an astronaut…my 4-year-old DH was torn on his future career choices. It was a tough dilemma between a turtle and a doughnut maker, why doughnut maker you ask, well so he could eat all the doughnut holes of course!)

As soon as our 5-hour tour ended we headed back to the resort for a little more pampering. This time I got a deep cleansing facial and DH got his first facial ever…just for the record, I didn’t not force him to do anything!…it was totally his idea. We separated into the men and women’s bath areas and met up again on the lanai, such a relaxing afternoon. =) What a perfect final day in Hawaii.

That evening we took some locals’ advice and ate at a sushi place in Kihei called Sensei Sushi…delicious…and totally packed. Oh, and really reasonably priced…but DH and I agreed that we are spoiled with Arigato and vowed to go home and continue our sushi overload.

Wednesday morning it was time to head back to the mainland and back to reality. I honestly cried as we were heading out of the hotel…I really didn’t want to leave. Maui is just that perfect.

Who wants to leave when even the airport is this beautiful?

Aloha Hawaii!!!!!

Honeymoon...Part Two

When DH and I started talking about the things that we really wanted to do in Hawaii, snorkeling was at the top of DH’s list. I had actually never been snorkeling. (I don’t get out much, lol.) Well, bright and early Wednesday morning we headed to Hanauma Bay, which if you are anywhere on Oahu, you will hear about as the easiest access to snorkeling on the island. Seriously, you wade out into the water…stick your head in the water…and see fish. Oh, did I mention you are able stand up because the water is shallow and fish are still all around you? Personally, I think that is what makes this place so special. However, it being my first time snorkeling I drank more saltwater than I ever thought humanly possible. Also, it gets pretty crowded…which then means cloudy water…which makes it harder to see fish…which makes me wonder if I’m cut out to snorkel. DH and I snorkeled for a while, then I headed to the beach to work on my tan and he continued to swim with all the fishies. I don’t know who had the more interesting stories by the end of the afternoon…him with the great fish experience or me with the people watching.

That evening we decided to venture out and go to the most often recommended restaurant among our family and friends, Roy’s. Let me tell you, it did not disappoint. We started off in the bar area with a cocktail and then headed upstairs to our table. They are pretty clever at Roy’s…our table had a piece of ribbon around the candle signifying a celebration of a special event. Yet, their ribbon system must be a little limited…because instead of EVERY staff member wishing us a happy honeymoon as they approached our table, they wished us a happy anniversary. DH and I would say thank you and giggle…I guess it was our five-day anniversary. =) Apparently, that’s the really yummy seafood dinner anniversary and Roy’s did not disappoint. They even treated us to a little dessert…mmm.

One of the other things that both DH and I really wanted to do on our honeymoon was to go horseback riding. I have never been and I’m a sucker for the brochures of people riding horses in Hawaii. We decided that we would spend Thursday going on a drive up to the north shore and then ride horses at the Turtle Bay resort. Well…we called before we left (no answer)…forgot to call again on the way up (forgetful honeymooners)…and by the time we got there, they were booked for the rest of the day. =( Alas, no horseback riding for us and my maiden voyage will have to wait.

In spite of our original intention being derailed, we had a fabulous day driving around the island and checking out the scenery. We drove up the East side of the island, got lost…and drove through a tunnel in the middle of the mountain range. Then we turned around and started our drive over, lol. The scenery is amazing and pictures seriously can’t do it justice.

We make it up to Turtle Bay, had lunch and walked around the hotel. They have these gorgeous birds in the lobby and the view is, once again, amazing.
I didn’t get any pictures of the surfing on the North shore, but let me tell you…not a place to learn how to surf. Do not attempt this at home. They were pretty awesome to watch.

On the way back to the condo we decided to circle the island and see the West side. The Dole plantation is there and although we didn’t stop for the tour, there are plenty of pineapple fields to view as you are driving on the highway.

We also saw a lot of military bases and barracks.

Friday, our last day in Oahu, was the perfect day. (At least in my book.) We seriously did nothing! The pool was home base all day long. A few beers, a good book and some rays…that’s what a Hawaiian vacation is supposed to be like. The pool had a slide and DH loved it. I loved just relaxing and enjoying our day.

We ended the trip with one of our favorite things in the world…Mexican food. Was it the best food we’ve ever had? Not even close…but they had live music, waterside dining and an excellent fried banana dessert and by that point we were a little ahi-ed (my new word) out.

The next morning…it was off to Maui. Or, as my mom would say…Here today, Gone to-Maui.

Honeymoon...Part One

While Sarah is editing away all of the amazing pictures I can’t wait to pour through…let’s fast forward to the honeymoon. I apologize that although there are some pictures there is not a plethora. Also, there are very few pictures of DH and I together. Somehow as soon as I go on vacation I forget about the camera. I guess I just love looking at the view through my eyes and not the view screen of a camera. Also, DH and I aren’t too into asking strangers to take pictures of us. Maybe we should more often in the future, but we have a few pictures and lots of fun memories.

We left for the lovely island of Oahu on Monday morning, bright and early, after the wedding. This was a great decision. It allowed us to enjoy Sunday (Dad’s birthday) with the family and friends that were still in town, allowed us to do a much needed load or two of laundry and allowed us time to pack after the wedding rather than before. Everyone warned me not to over pack…and I listened. However, looking back, I shouldn’t have, lol. I ran out of clothes halfway through…so, if I’m wearing the same thing multiple times I promise it is a different day, just same outfit, lol.

Back to the trip…Monday morning we flew to Oahu, direct from Sacramento to Honolulu. Hard to believe, but this was the first flight I’ve ever been on that served a meal. Laugh if you will, but SWA doesn’t give you more than snacks and a soft drink and I’ve never been off the mainland (Mexico is still technically the mainland). So, I took a picture. DH thought it was the funniest thing ever and couldn’t believe that I was excited for airplane food. =)

As soon as we got there we headed to get our rental car and then off to the condo. We were both pretty much exhausted and just wanted to relax. However, you must remember that it is Monday and that means football to us. So, we got to watch what DH now refers to as Monday Afternoon Football. It is definitely an adjustment with the time difference and sporting events. Sooooo, after a late lunch/early dinner, a football game and a beer it was time to check out the condo.

We stayed in the Hawaii Kai area of Oahu, which was very nice. A lot quieter than Waikiki and populated with a lot of high rise condos and homes on the water. The majority of people around there either live in Oahu full time or split their time between there and the mainland. We ran into a ton of Nor Cal transplants throughout the islands.

The view from the condo was beautiful. (L: Sunset in Oahu from our window. R: Looking down on the pool.)

Did I mention we were exhausted? We intended to take a nap around 4:30 and then get up and go out to dinner and do a little more exploring. Well, we took a nap alright…a 14 hour nap. DH and I didn’t wake up until around 6:30 the next morning. I know we both needed it after all the wedding fun, but I think that’s the longest nap I’ve ever taken.

Tuesday morning, all refreshed and ready to go, we headed out to explore and see what Oahu had to offer. I was dying to go straight to the busiest place of all…Waikiki. We were told that it was crowded, busy, touristy and to maintain distance. Phooey…I loved Waikiki!!! My comparison to shopping on Waikiki is that it is like Rodeo Drive, but there is a beach, everyone is nice and no one bats an eye if you are in flip flops. =) Oh, and the hotels are amazing. If we ever go back to Oahu, I want to stay at the Westin Moana Surfrider, what a gorgeous hotel.

We also got to peruse the vendors that fill the alleys and open areas of Waikiki…more trinkets and do-dads than you’ve ever seen...and delicious Hawaiian Ice.

Oh, and of course we had to visit Duke and sit on Waikiki beach for a little while. What a fun day!

Hey You....Come Here

and look at the sneak peak Sarah just posted on her blog.

I'm sooooooo excited and floating right now. She's going to have to tie me down to her couch when we start working on albums if they all look this amazing.

http://blog.sarahmarenphotography.com/2008/11/sneeky-peeky-because-i-aim-to-please.html

I bought myself a present

I bought myself a present. I used our gift certificates. No, I’m not completing our registry yet, but I did go buy a few things that we really, really wanted and didn’t receive as gifts. A few were biggies…like lamps and bedding. One thing was something I have wanted ever since the day we registered. I don’t care that it probably seems odd. I love it…

…our OXO large Salad Spinner.

I’m so happy! =)

Wedding Eve Eve

I feel the need to tell you upfront that I have, in my possession, over 100 pictures of the rehearsal dinner and I’m still awaiting quite a few more. I love my snap happy family and friends, especially Hostess BM, aka Miss V. Thanks to Miss V alone I have over 400 non-professional pictures of the wedding to pour over and share with you all, but for now let’s look at the rehearsal dinner.

DH and I decided quite some time ago that we wanted our rehearsal dinner to be intimate and include only our closest family and friends. I am so happy we made that choice….having 30 of the people we love most in the world there with us that night was perfect. FIL and MIL hosted the dinner and DH helped a lot with the logistics. (I helped some too, lol.)

This was the first opportunity for quite a few of those 30 folks to meet each other. Aunts, Uncles, cousins, my friends and DH’s friends…a few had hung out before, but for the most part there were lots of first introductions.

We had our rehearsal dinner at Piatti’s in Roseville…sooo yummy! I’m skipping ahead, but if you find yourself at a Piatti’s, be sure to save room for the Tiramisu…or just order dessert first. You won’t be disappointed.

Ok, back to the evening…it started with a lot of wine (vino) and a lot of conversation among loved ones.

More conversation….more vino…

Then we sat down to dinner and I think the pictures stopped for a little while. The food was very good, especially the chicken parmigiana, my favorite. =)

There were a couple little details not to be missed…first up, the escort cards. Mom hand embossed the escort cards and they actually matched the shower thank you notes I made. Also, the pretty centerpieces MIL had made up.

There was also a pleasant surprise for us all in the form of a champagne toast…we hadn’t planned to have one, but a very thoughtful person (who I won’t name in the blog) had called ahead and had a toast arranged for us as a gift. So cool! I was really surprised!

DH said a few nice words welcoming everyone, as did MIL…

Next up we decided to pass out presents. I love giving people presents. However, my girls had a present for me first…I think DH liked it as much as I do!

Then DH and I got to pass out our gifts to our BP and parents. I should have thought ahead and taken pictures of them before, but I totally slacked, my sincerest apologies. The guys got custom poker chip sets with their initials hot stamped into the chips. The ladies got Kate Spade makeup bags, a monogrammed compact and a whole bunch of goodies inside the bag. I think they all loved it. The parents each got a digital picture frame. That definitely turned out to be a hit, especially with the IL’s. I also got my folks a little something extra and a little sentimental…I also had a surprise for them back in the room after the wedding…nothing weird, just a pretty picture frame and another card. (I’m big on cards….I made Miss V cry again, lol.)

After the gifts some people started to head back to the hotel and some just hung around chit-chatting…of course DH and I were the last to leave with our car loads of friends and we headed back in the direction of the hotel.

It would have been back to the hotel, but we weren’t ready to just call it a night…so we headed to Tahoe Joe’s for a few drinks with the BP until they closed down around us too. My family was starting to arrive and a few of them headed over to join us for a welcome cocktail. It was a fun night and I just remember repeatedly saying…I can’t believe it’s finally here! Such a great, surreal feeling.

There is beer in the glass

Maybe it’s because I went to Chico State, but whenever I visualize a glass half empty or half full there is always beer in the glass. I’m sure my mom loves hearing that, lol. So, this week and I guess life in general all of the time, has beer in the glass.

I don’t know if I would classify myself as an optimist or a pessimist…I like to think of myself as a determined, realistic, romantic. Is it possible? Maybe. Can it happen? Someday. Is it perfect? Nothing is ever perfect, it can always be improved. Is it a total loss? Never, we always learn from the good and bad and make it better next time.

These are probably all vague ramblings to you, but I’m just trying to say that we learn, we move forward and we regroup for tomorrow. This week has been historic, but there were things that deeply saddened me. Do I hate people for their beliefs, no…I’m disappointed yes, but I honestly feel sorry for them…I can’t imagine being so naïve and thinking it is ok to make discrimination and prejudice law. However, we learn, we regroup and we continue to peacefully work for love, respect and acceptance until they are all ingrained into our lives and society.

Nothing is ever perfect…we just keep working towards it. Maybe, Someday…It is NEVER a total loss.

Wedding Eve Day

Our rehearsal was in the afternoon, the day before the wedding. There was another wedding that evening so the choice was between 3pm on Friday or Thursday evening…well, the vast majority of our bridal party was driving in from out of town so Friday afternoon was the better option of the two for our group.

Having our rehearsal in the middle of the afternoon had it’s own list of pros and cons. Pro: we had plenty of time to visit and not be late or rushed to the rehearsal dinner (post coming up soon). Con: did I mention that the guys went golfing that morning? Umm…they were a little late.

Every bride wonders what her demeanor will be when the events actually get here…or at least I did. Will I be a raging neurotic bride or a zen bride with nothing but love and happy thoughts. Well…it didn’t start out too zen. Due to road work and traffic it was taking about 30 minutes to get from the hotel to the country club and vice versa. My moh and I were running exactly according to schedule and arrived at the rehearsal at 3 on the button. The majority of our bridal party was already there, as were DH’s parents. So…who does that leave missing? Yep, the Groom, my parents, the BM and my brother…Golf had taken a little longer than scheduled and the guys didn’t finish up until around 2:30pm. Then they had to go to the hotel (30 min), 4 people had to shower and get dressed (30 min) and drive back to the country club (30 min). I was a little upset and not liking the way things were starting out. I honestly don’t know how they did it, but they defied my timing and were only about 20 minutes late. You can’t really start without the Groom, but it didn’t make me very zen.

Me not being very zen.

Here comes the Groom, better late to the rehearsal than the wedding.

Once all the needed parties were present we got going and ran through the processional, ceremony (key points) and recessional. It was as all rehearsals are…nothing too unique or special…except that this was our rehearsal and the next day was the wedding!!!

I think we are talking about golf in the last one here.

As soon as we all got started and in the swing of things I became much more relaxed and a lot less neurotic. My advice to brides is to bring everything!!! Bring your paperwork, your notes and your brain. Although I had a coordinator and a great officiant…no one knows your wedding and what you want better than you. Oh, and no matter how many times you go through it and how many people know what they are supposed to do…something will go wrong. That being said…no one will really pay attention or notice, except you (and your mom in my case).

We rehearsed, we were smiling and we were ready to go eat!