Bits and Bobs

I am feeling lazy so here is what is going on in my world

• We are getting some responses back and it is now fun to go through the mail.
• I have been getting good nights of sleep, but have been waking up more tired than I began
• I am a bit not sure of what I need to do next for the wedding. It is starting to freak me out that it is so close.
• We need to spend a day cleaning and organizing the apartment.
• I am actually ahead of the laundry game, as of last night.
• Jet dry does make a difference in the dish washer
• I am so over the rain, seriously. OVER IT!

So what is going on in your world?

I did not want it to end

I had such a great weekend, that I feel like I am still on cloud 9.

I got to NYC on Friday and headed to my matron of honors in laws. She is currently producing a indy film and had to do some editing and the only date and time she could do it was an hour before my flight arrived. So I spend part of the day with her mother in law and we had iced tea. She had a lovely tea service all set up and we just chatted for a few hours. Plus I got a bite of good authentic NY pizza that my body was craving because there is nothing like NY pizza and frankly nothing comes close. (I do know that they are fighting words). That night she took me to dinner and there was a surprised guest, one of my college roommates. It was great to see her and we ate, talked, laughed and just had a great time! Plus this restaurant was so good, the sangria was so addicting and the tapas were so delish. Tapas are seriously the best way to eat.

Once we rolled out of there we headed to my MOHs house to go to bed. Saturday we woke up got ready and headed to my mom's house for the shower. My mom and the MOH outdid themselves there was ton of food, there were decorations everywhere. We had about 23 people there and people were so generous. I was (and still am in awe) of how much we got. I can't get over it all.

One of my friends from high school who I haven't seen in over 7 years came with her mom. It was so good to see her. She is pregnant with twins and is due any day…and she came to the shower for a little while.

My cousin's 4 year old daughter helped me with the ribbons and unwrapping the gifts before she got bored.

The highlight was when I unwrapped a "nightie", it was short and white and blue and lacy. So she asked what it was, so I told her it was a nightgown…she looked at me and the nightie and then said, it was too short to be a nightgown. Everyone died laughing!

It was a great time.

I have amazing family and friends.

Getting ready for I don't know what

I am heading home this weekend for one of my bridal showers. My mom and my matron of honor have been busy planning for the event and according to my "matron" there is going to be a big turn out. Most of the people who were on the invite list are coming. I am very excited and touched because I wasn't sure if people would even show. It will be really great to see some people who I haven't seen in a few years.

On top of that, there is some mysterious event that I know nothing about. I have been told to bring an outfit that is fit for going out. I have NO idea what this "event" is and I have been lovingly told to "shut up and show up". So when questioning my "matron" especially since I don't know what to bring, all my cute jeans no longer fit and I have given up on buying clothes for the sole purpose of going out. She simply told me, "then we will go shopping".

I am really looking forward to this weekend, it is starting to bring all the elements together before the big day. It will be so worth it.

So my friends, what types of outfit should I pack? Mind you the only clue that I've been told is that this "event" is in the city and will not include male strippers (per my only request).

Nothing a nap can't fix

It was a good and busy weekend for us in Chi town. We did a lot of things but were not overwhelmed. The BF is recovering from his work trip so we kept things low key on Friday.

Saturday I was woken up early (well for me anyway) because somebody accidental placed his i-phone in his cup of water. So a string of profanity woke me up. The phone was fine but I was up, so I got up for the day. We ended up grabbing a bite then headed home where I took a nap. We have been wanting to see UP since we are big Pixar fans so we went to see a show. Later at night we went to a birthday party only to come home an hour an half later tired.

Yesterday, we met Jessica, her husband and her son at the Field. She was in town for a conference and through FB, I found out that she was in Chicago. It was great to meet another blogger and her fam.

I have a short week ahead of me, I am heading home for my bridal shower this weekend. Time is really starting to fly or at least seemingly so!

How you were treated

Yesterday, I had an appointment, one that I was looking forward to. When I left, I felt like crap, they made me feel like crap and once I got home. I cried. When I told the BF what happen he wanted to call the place immediately and give them a piece of his mind.

I worked in customer service for years and had dealt with all types of people and a wide range of problems and issues that are unique to my industry and I like to think that I've developed the skills to handle all types of situations.

there is one mantra that I used during my CS years (I can't remember who coined this)

People will forget what you said
People will forget what you did
But, they will never forget how you treated them

Yesterday I was treated horribly and yet I can't do much about but it because I have to deal with them a few more times and once I am done I plan on speaking to a manager and perhaps write a review on yelp about the experience.

But for now, I have to suck it in...

Signed, sealed...mailed

So on my way to the car this morning I dropped our invitations in the mail box. I had to pause for a moment to let it sink in. I am mailing the invites to our family and friends who we would like to have at the wedding...it makes is more and more real. It was a great way to start the day despite the rain.

The BF is away on business so it is just me with the two beasts. So my routine is a little different, I take Yukon out when I get home and get up early to take her out in the morning. We went out early this morning just before some rain and it was nice and quiet. The two of them miss the BF and were waiting by the door until they realized that I was getting ready for bed. Chaplin curled up on his dad's side rather than the top of my head and Yukon remained at her post in front of the door but would check in every few hours.

We all miss him but I am so excited for him and this opportunity that came up for him. He'll be home in a few days and will have a huge welcome.

how many days?

The wedding tasks have come back in earnest but, it is a good thing. We got our lovely invitations last week so yesterday was "invitation lockdown". We spend most of the day working on them and getting them ready to go out. So today I have to go and get the postage and finish them up to post them (can you tell I lived in London?) tomorrow. I am so pleased with them and can't wait to check them off our list!

We spent all of Saturday at our pre-Cana session. We were expecting it to be full of religion but it was not, it was based around the premise how well do you know your partner and identifying the areas where you need to talk or where you differ. So it was interesting and we both came out of it feeling satisfied that it was useful. So with that piece of paper we are one step closer to getting married.

Saturday night we went to a concert at the Chicago theater given by the members of Spinal Tap. It was a lot of fun but made for a late night and a long day.

It is 60 days people, 60! Why does that number freak me out??

A future in law

My father in law to be is just awesome. He is smart, witty, sarcastic, warm and on top of any game. He has a very methodical but creative way of developing solutions.

This weekend we went to his house for a BBQ with the BF's bro and fiancé. During the course of the afternoon. J and I were dishing on our favorite guilty pleasure. The Real housewives of (insert city). Now it is NJ and it is such a train wreck and we love it.

Not one to be behind the times. he was puzzled about this show, he sent the following email to the BF who then sent it to me and I have to share:

"Intrigued by your discussions on Saturday, I have just tuned into "Real Housewives of Atlanta". WOW! Talk about Tramp Camp !I'm going to become a faithful fan.

It will even displace Dog the Bounty Hunter from topping my list of favs."

This is why he is awesome.

Lame

I am very tired today, but that is what happens when you wake up at 3 and couldn't fall back asleep so it is bullet/lazy cop out time:

-I called my brother the other day to check in and left him a message. He hasn't called me back and I can't blame him
-We went to two BBQs this weekend, one at the BF's father's house and the other at his brother's house. Both were fun, I am BBQ'ed out though!
-I was working on the wedding budget and I am pleased that we are over the budget by a small percentage (So far!)
-We got some crafty things for the wedding and I know what I will be doing for the next week once we get our invites (hopefully tomorrow)
-I am on day four of giving up soda, so far so good.
-Our office starts the "Biggest Loser" contest tomorrow. We have a pretty cool team and have planned a strategy cause we want to win.

What are some of your bullets?

Back down

I have been told that I will be down another bridesmaid. My brother and his wife have separated and she had decided that she will not/can not participate.

Anyone wear a size 14 (can be altered)?

Seriously thought, I feel bad for the both of them. I really don't know what happened and frankly, it is none of my business. My mom is devastated.

Friends and cupcakes

We spent the weekend doing out typical errand running but we got to have quite a bit of fun along the way. Our wedding task of the weekend was to meet with our florists again to solidify the plans and all went well. We are very pleased with what they did so, one more thing checked off the list.

On Saturday night, we went to a BBQ at a friend's house. She is one of my bridesmaids and I was able to finally give her the dress. It is so funny that we are both from the east coast (we grew up 40 minutes away) and we now live 5 blocks away but hardly see each other. So it was great to see her and her husband plus her stepdaughter and her parrot. We had a great time!

Sunday we grabbed a bite for breakfast at one of our favorite places and then I met the girls for a cupcake class here. Afterwards, I met the BF and as we were walking back to the car we windowed shopped at our favorite store. Lo and behold the sideboard we've been coveting was reduced in price, and we could afford it. So we got it. I am so pleased that our living room is done (well once it gets delivered).

It was a much needed sunny weekend.

What was your highlight?

Splurges

Well I have been trying to limit extra spending due to the wedding etc. But then I become aware of things evil bad things which are...cute unique web sites and stores. So to torment you too here they are:

Etsy-I love this site, I have used dedicated crafters to create my bridesmaid's gifts, my hair piece and my bridal jewelry.

Mod-Cute vintage dresses and clothes with funky accessories

Trashy Diva-Come on who can resit a visit to this site. This site was a siren...want to see my newest splurge, check out the trixie 2 dress in aqua...

Le sigh!

Other than that I've been good....somewhat.

Guess again...

It has been no secret that I have been second guessing everything about the wedding from my dress to the flowers, to the venue to the food to the photographer to the date and beyond. I think it is because it is so unknown to me what it is like to be a bride. I've been to plenty of weddings but orchestrating one is a completely different. My friend told me the other day (I a moment of irrational crisis on my part) that she loved getting married but hated being the bride. I can see that point.

I am not one to jump into the spotlight and I can be very indecisive and I tend to second guess a lot of my decisions as they happen. Part of it also has to deal with the crap that we had to deal with from our families. Every decision was a battle with someone and after a while, it made us question certain things.

But that comes with the territory and I have accepted that onions, comments and suggestions that are both welcomed and unwelcomed. We have about 80 days left and I have to make the decision to trust myself or question every little thing….I am planning on trusting myself.

Tired woman

For some reason, I am still tired from my trip out east. It is not like I was out late but, since I've been back all I want to do is sleep!

The trip was productive and of course the seminar was great. the instructor was so personable and she just oozed confidence. Her experience and sense of humor disarmed any skeptic. What was best about the group is that there were so many varied personalities and yet we were all engaged and found our individual voice. Some of the topics were how to say "No" and mean it, dealing with difficult people, emotion in the work place and leadership. I have a few tools that I can build upon. Overall it was a great success and I was so glad to have been able to participate!

I got home tired on Friday afternoon. We had some errands to run then we grabbed dinner in River North. I was sleeping by 7:30! I was so tired.

Saturday was more errands and Sunday was brunch with the BF's brother and his fiancé then groceries then home. I took a little nap in the afternoon.

I am hoping for the engagement photos this week!

What is going on with you?

Treats and trips

One of the BF's friends sends care packages to his mom and family in southern IL, he spreads the leftovers among his friends here. So he called the BF and told him about the treats. We met up with him last night at one of our favorite dive bars a block away and he gave us homemade spice nuts, ginger cookies and orange marmalade. He is an amazing cook! It was nice to just hang out and chat for a little while.

Tonight I have to forgo the gym to pack because I am heading out east for work. I am excited for this trip because it is for a seminar about Women and leadership. The topics sounds really interesting and I know that I will learn a lot. Plus I am travelling with one of my fav co-workers and my former boss who I love will be there too. So it will be very empowering!

Plus they are working on the office roof this week and it gets really annoying so I will be gone for the bulk of it.

The office is doing a "biggest loser" challenge and I am going to participate. We have a team of 4 and we are all talking about how we can win. I plan on eating better and adding a day or two at the gym.

Oh and my matron of honor by best friend in the world is back from her French vacation and I really missed her.

Things are looking up!

What are you looking forward to this week?

The locals

We try to support local businesses and I think that we do a pretty good job. We buy our groceries at a little grocery store a block away (and we save a ton), we are going to order our invitations from one of our fav stores and we bought our furniture from a local store. However, the furniture store is closing because the owner is retiring after 40 or so years.

So yesterday we went in to see what they had left. The two things we were needed were a sideboard and a coffee table (and a bed but that is on the back burner). We ended up getting a coffee table and almost got a sideboard.

Before we left the house we talked about how much we can spend while considering the variables of the wedding. We are trying to be better about money and have to start working on a budget.

So we left the sideboard at the store. It is sad that they will be closing their doors but there will be more sideboards in the world.

Water logged

So it has been raining off and on here in Chicago. It has been very annoying and the ground is waterlogged (but the trees are starting to bloom).

But we did not expect our condo to get waterlogged. Yesterday afternoon I was coming back from a trip to the store and went to the bathroom to wash my hands. I heard the whirlpool tub noise from our upstairs neighbors and thought nothing of it. I closed the door* and went to the kitchen. Then not more than 30 seconds later the dog was licking the floor in front of the bathroom and this dripping sound was getting louder. So I opened the door and saw water pouring from our vent and our light fixture. So I ran upstairs and knocked but the did not answer the door.

I went back down and started to place towels around and frantically called the BF who happened to be walking through the door at that exact moment. He ran upstairs and the neighbors came down with him. Apparently they** were taking a bath and had a "little" spillage. The developer also came by and took a few fixtures down.

The neighbors were very helpful and offered to do what they could. We just have to let things dry to ensure that the drywall is ok and that there is no mold issues.

So that is how we met the neighbors (officially) and why I had a straight daiquiri last night.

Ahh the joys of home ownership!

* the beasts love the bathroom and cause all sorts of havoc so we close the door to prevent them from being annoying

**The neighbors are a married couple with a very petite wife and a medium buid husband. So based on the ideas of physics and displacement we suspect that she was bathing and he joined her or they filled the tub and one of them got in cause the water to overflow.

Another one hits the dust!

It was another whirlwind but productive weekend. We accomplished

-Ordering our cake for the wedding
The selection was pretty good and we had a lot of fun eating. We hit the wall a few hours later!

-Getting our wedding rings ordered
My engagement ring is back with the jeweler because he will be creating a customer setting.
My finger feels weird and I miss the ring but I get it back in a few
days and yes I had my "Oh my God, I lost it" moment or two or a few more than two

-Book rehearsal dinner space
My future father in law has graciously offered to host this on our behalf and after providing him with a list of about 10 options he narrowed it down to two and then to one. So we all went out for late lunch that he enjoyed and booked it on the spot. It was great to knock another one off of the list.

-Worked on the invitations
We had to make a few changes so we did that and dropped them off that the place where we will order them from. So after one more proof, we will be ordering them

It is such a relief to check them off!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I have a question for all you work out people, I am going to add an extra day at the gym. The options are

-1 day of pilates and 1 day of muscle definition (I tend to get there early so I do 5-10 minutes on the treadmill to get my heart rate up)
-2 day of muscle definition

Both of these will have to be Tuesday and Wednesday for an hour each.

The schedule is changing next week but from what I have seen, it is not a huge variance.

What do you think would work best? I may have to add a day of walking or Wii'ing as well.

99

In 99 days we will be saying I do!

Time really flies by during the planning process. This week we had our cake tasting and we had fun with that. Although the sugar crash came a few hours later.

Tomorrow we are working with the jeweler to work on our wedding bands.

Crossing things of our list is a wonderful thing.

I just can't wait to be married

100 days until the honeymoon!

Like a dog chasing its tail....

I feel like I am running around in circles. Most of the projects that I have been working on this year projects have been halted mid way through or at the end and shelved, split apart, on hold or discarded. It has been extremely frustrating to say the least. I spend days setting up meetings to have them post punned or forgotten about. I work on a certain topic only to be told that is not what I should focus on but rather change my direction completely.

I am just frustrated and have been asking myself, is this what I really want to do?

One more check mark

So last night eh BF and I had our tasting at our venue and it went well. We were treated like royalty and ate some really amazing dishes.

Our wedding coordinator was there with us and I must say that he is part of the reason why I am not worried about the day. He was extremely spot on and on target. He made us think about some things that we did not think about so that was very helpful. We like him a lot and it just makes us relieved that he knows what he is doing and he is not going to take any thing from anybody. He told us he is here for us!

Today we have our engagement session! I am very very excited and so is the BF. He is out shopping for a new sport coat to wear. I will post a few once we get them back.

And to top it off it is in the 60s!

Love it!

Busy bee

The next few days are going to be chopped full of stuff that we have to get done and appointments to be honored. However, it is all good stuff and I am looking forward to most of the upcoming events.

Tonight we have our menu tasting. The BF and I narrowed the menu down and are looking forward to trying the items and firm that up. Tomorrow I have a dr appt (not really looking forward to that) then we have our engagement session. I still have no idea what to wear but I have narrowed it down.

Saturday we have to head to the burbs for my future niece's first communion. So it will be good to see everyone.

So it is all good but I will admit, I am looking forward to a low key Sunday!

What are you looking forward to this weekend?

Half way details

It was the start of wedding crazy month this past weekend. I had my first dress fitting! I stopped looking at dresses once I picked the gown but It was hard for me to remember certain details and once I tried it on, I felt a whole lot better that I made the right decision. Of course it is big on me and will need a lot of work but I am sure it will be done well. I tried it on with my mom's veil and it looked amazing. I was floored that it worked so well. I also got to pick up the dresses for the girls and they are this pretty grey lavender color. Love them. My mom is taking three of them with her to NY to distribute to the girls there.

Afterwards my mom and I went to look at some jewelry and I came this close to buying some but when I saw the prices I had to slowly back away.

Since my parents were in town we went to dinner at a place I have been wanting to try and it was very good, we will be going there again for sure. We went to mass and then for dinner took the parents to Tapas Barcelona, hands down my favorite place!

This week is going to be very busy, I have a few doctor and dentist appointments, our tasting and our engagement photos. So we are busy once again but at least it is a good busy. But I still have no clue what to wear for the pictures!!

Help!

When things happen...

I am a lurker and sometimes it is because I like being behind the scenes watching things unfold.

One of the blogs that I lurk is experiencing heartbreak in a way that I can't fathom. Her beautiful 17 month old daughter Maddie, passed away.

Maddie was born a few months premature and had lung problems. She was in and out of the hospital and a few days ago was rushed back to PICU for breathing problems. Sadly, she did not make it.

There are no words to take away the pain from her parents, her family or her friends. The outpouring of love, and donations from people all over the world is outstanding.

If you care to help you can make a donation to the March of Dimes, in Maddie's name.

I hope that you find the peace that is on the other side and know that you are loved, Madeline.

No pain no gain

I did it, I made it to my second class at the gym. This particular class is dedicated to muscle definition and is apparently quite popular.

What is great about the class is that you work within your limits and even if you limits are low you get a workout. It is not easy but it is reasonable and does test you. I am sore today but that was expected. I feel better because I have been making excuses and now with the wedding a matter of a few months away I want to do something besides making excuses.

I am also planning on adding another day to my work out to do it three times a week for an hour. I really like taking classes because it is different from my regular routine.

The hard thing is to keep motivated and on point. What are you motivation tools??

Blurbs

For some reason I am in a" bullet" mood, so here we go

• I twisted my ankle and fell at work the other day right under the "this facility has gone 240 days without an accident" sign, I have to check to see if they had to change it. Talk about irony...
• My dress is in....I am very excited and I hope that I like it as much as I did when it was ordered
• We ordered our invitations and are waiting for the digital proofs!
• I have discovered this awesome wine and gourmet store 5 blocks away. The BF, a friend and I went to a wine and food tasting yesterday afternoon and got to try some really nice wines. I found a new red that does not give me head aches. Lets hear it for rioja!
• My parents are coming into town this weekend
• I have fallen off the gym bandwagon, I have to get back there tomorrow!

So what is your bulleted list?

I'm

I am...

Tired, so tired
pissed and cranky
broke

And you?

Not ever long enough!

This weekend reinforces the idea that two days is just sometimes not long enough. It did not help that the weather was less than stellar and that yesterday we got snow. Bloody crappy wet snow!

Some highlights:

I took the BF out to dinner for an early birthday celebration. He wanted steak and that is what he got. It was a nice very nice dinner and the dessert was so good. We got there early so that we could find parking near the house on our way home. We were so stuffed and when we got home, we just vegged out. We did turn off a few lights for earth hour.

Yesterday after running a few errands, we went to a tasting tour. Our Rogers Park neighborhood had a tasting tour of 16 local restaurants in many different locations. We made it to about 9 restaurants before we gave up because we were stuffed and tired. We found some really nice new places and got to try a number of new things. I even found a new favorite wine a vino verde from Portugal.

It was a food filled weekend. But we also did a lot of walking so hopefully that made up for me missing Pilates yesterday. No matter, tomorrow is my muscle definition class.

Not Lazy but still indecisive

So yesterday for the first time in a long time I went to the gym. I am trying hard to be more active and force myself to go. I mean I have a huge motivation, I want to look good for the big day. But in the long term, I want to feel better about myself. Yesterday I took a muscle definition class and it was great. Since each student picks his/but mostly hers weights you can work within your means. We used two types of weights, a resistant band and the step. today my legs are sore but I know that I did something for myself. So I have to just get into the routine of going!

I need your help! Next month, we are taking our engagement photos and I have no idea what to wear. I asked my MOH and her advice is:
-Look like yourself but like yourself getting dressed up and going out
-Try jewel colors (no black or white)
-Stay away from prints

The day after the photos, we have a first communion to go to and I would like an outfit to wear for both occasions. In particular, I am hoping to find a dress.

What do you suggest? Do you have any ideas?

another reason why

Scene: Saturday afternoon we were deciding what we should do for the evening.

Him: Let's go to the movies
Me: I don't know what is out there
Him: We can see "I Love you, Man"
Me:….
Him: Well you like Paul Rudd and I like to laugh, it is a win win

That man will be my hubby in 131 days

We maybe Saints but we are no angels.

I just had to post this...considering I am not a sports fan but I heart my undergrad college...so many good memories

Go Saints

Oh and I love the last sentence. The Saints messed up our President's bracket.

Oh and Ohio State apparently does not practice sportsmanship. They walked off the court and refused to shake hands. That was disappointing but they did not expected to be beaten by an unknown in the first round.

I wish them the best of luck and will be wearing green and gold!

Warm and fuzzies

Non Sequitur Chica gave me the following blog award:


“These blogs are exceedingly charming. These kind bloggers aim to find and be friends. They are not interested in self-aggrandizement. Our hope is that when the ribbons of these prizes are cut, even more friendships are propagated. Please give more attention to these writers. Deliver this award to eight bloggers who must choose eight more and include this cleverly-written text into the body of their award.”

So I want to pay this forward and recognize some pretty awesome bloggers:

Blog this Baby-What can I say she makes me laugh and is just plain fun in real life too. The first blog that I read religiously.

10 Eleven-Smart and witty are her trademarks, with a dose of snarkiness from time to time. She is dangerously fun in real life.

Somi Nilsa-Honest, opinionated, and true to herself. I admire her writing and how she encourages comments and loves it when people express different viewpoints.

Pseudostoops-Funny, intelligent and an expert on all things Paris! What's not to like?

Kristabella, full of Snark-Snark is her middle name but combine that with humor and smart writing and you got Kristabella and Bacon.

Burlap Condoms-Newly engaged and just a great read. She and Bones make the perfect couple, read the Pi and David Caruso post...I'll wait. Oh and check out her bride spreadsheets!

Kilax-A wonderful new find for me. She is a runner, a fencer and a cook balancing time for a long commute, lovely hubby and Data! I enjoy her posts

It's serious this time-A single mom who loves her son and her cats. Her daily observations and blogs make for good reading. I look forward to more of her stories.

Long Story Short-Colleen is introspective and sharp, she has a keen observational mind and many of her posts are a mix of intelligent, pondering and fun.

Life of an Every Day Princess-this chick balances life and school with grace, balance and a flair for fun and remembers the simple joys of every day

And of course...

Non Sequitur Chica-This recently engaged woman is a fun read especially since many of our wedding activities are running in tandem, she gives great advise and is an overall great blogger

Yep I could not limit myself to just 8!

So share the love....

Shady Pines ma, Shady Pines

So I was talking with my mom about a few things when she mentions that she and my dad saw an all inclusive trip to China. Here is the conversation that followed:

Me: That is not a bad price for an all inclusive trip to China for 14 days

Her: No, but what will your dad eat?

Me: …

Her-What will I eat? I don't like Chinese food with all the MSG

Me: Ma, that is the American version of Chinese food, I am sure in China it is different its better.

Her: Well you know your father (he is VERY particular about food in other countries) in Peru he complained about the food and all the rice so I am sure he will complain

Me:Are you planning on going to China?

Her: No, why?

Me: head banging on my desk

End scene…

My head hurts

Legs of a gazelle

I am not sure what part of my body hurts more, my legs or my abs! Why you ask, well it is because yesterday I took my first Pilates class at the gym. It was a beginning/intermediate class and I was the only newbie. the instructor was really awesome and keep checking on me and correcting my posture. Apparently I did really well for a beginner. She told me after class that she could tell that I did yoga before. My trainer also used to incorporate some Pilates moves into our weekly exercise so I was familiar with a few moves.

As class was ending my legs were killing me and this morning my abs began to feel the burn. I will be heading to the gym tomorrow but I am unsure if I should take a muscle conditioning class or another Pilates class. I figure if I take a Pilates class on Sundays then I can take another class during the week I am also considering taking zumba. What do you think? Should I just take Pilates of should I mix it up. I especially want to define my abs, back and arms.

On Friday, the BF and I met with the priest who will be marrying us. It was a nice experience because we were expecting to have somewhat of a serious and judgmental meeting but the priest was very liberal and laid back. I have heard horror stories of couples who lived together and the priest lectured them and even threatened not to perform the wedding unless they mend their ways. No such luck with us! He was very cool and it was a pleasant time. We have to pick our readings and some of them are a dozy, they run the gammit from love and respect each other to the wife is subservient to the husband. One of the readings is from the Song of Songs in the Old Testament and refers to My love is like a gazelle or a young stag. which had us both in giggles because we are going to ask our godparents to do the readings and we can't imagine the BF's aunt referring him as a stag.

We also were pleasantly surprised on the music selections. We can walk down the aisle to a secular song. I was thinking about using "Songbird" by Eva Cassidy as an option. Ideally, I would like to mimic the wedding scene in "Love Actually" however, I don't think that will work! What other love songs do you think would work. We would have to run them by the music director first though.

Too lazy to form sentences

• My love and adoration for John Stewart was only solidified last night watching the debate between him and Jim Cramer of MSNBC's Mad money. If you did not see it last night find it on you tube or on the web. John was freaking on fire and the best line was and I quote "The financial news industry is not just guilty of a sin of omission but a sin of commission". Shortly followed by "Maybe we can ... start getting back to fundamentals on the reporting, and I can go back to making fart noises and funny faces".
• Today we are meeting with the priest who will be performing our wedding ceremony. I was reminding the BF last night when he asked me if he can ask the priest if he is a "wizard or a magician"?
• I had a dream that contained kittens, plants and Martha Stewart
• This is the first Friday in 9 months that I am in the office, I usually work from home on Fridays in my pjs.

Bullets

• I am so tired of the weather, I just want it to warm up not this up and down temperature cycle
• I am kind of bummed that some DIY ideas that we had for the wedding are not going to happen.
• The RuPaul Drag Race show is my newest TV addiction
• We are meeting with the priest who will marry us this week and I am hoping that we can make some mention of those who are not permitted to marry due to stupid laws. We are also trying to figure out a way where the BF can wear the freedom to marry ribbon in his boutonniere
• I am so sick of my clothes, I just know it is because of the season but I still want to go shopping
• My nails are breaking, what can I do besides vitamins to make them stronger?
• The time change is making me so tired and lazy

What are your random bullets?

Mac'ed

The BF and I had a date and we went to the Fleetwood Mac concert. We had a great time, the band was unstoppable and they played the songs that they wanted. Lindsey Buckingham blew me away. His guitar skills were so incredible and he ranks as one of the top guitarists that I have ever seen. The BF and I don't date much anymore since we live together so it was good to just do something different and where we both had a fun time.

Saturday was full of errands. We started off with breakfast at one of our favorite spots. We also began to look at wedding invitations. I would like to make them but I have no idea where to start and how long it would take. So we decided to check out some options at one of our favorite boutiques. We then ran a few more errands before pooping out at home. Yesterday, we braved the rain for the last of our errands.

This whole daylight savings time is kicking my butt. I feel like I am up way to early. It will take me some time to get used to it.

On the wedding front, I am not sure where I am actually. I have to go review my list and re-new contacts with a few vendors. It is a good thing to take a mental break from the wedding. We had some stressful encounters last week and it dampened our spirits. I am very pleased that the BF and I talk it through and all is not lost. We have just decided that it is going to be about us and that people may not be happy with some decisions but as long as we are, then we will move forward.

Oh and I had a question, seeing Stevie Nicks and Lindsey Buckingham together on stage singing songs that paint the picture of their relationship had me wondering if you could work closely together with an ex? I don't think that I can, in fact I know that I can't. What about you?

Much less spinning

Today I am feeling better, not 100% yet but better. It is the weirdest feeling that the world is intermittently spinning around you. Thanks to you all for your comments, I appreciated them! You are all awesome but you knew that :)!

On to better things, I had my make up trial this weekend. It was a bit funny because the BF came with me. We had planned to see his brother and his father in the south barbs and since the makeup trial was on the way, he tagged along. It went well, I wore fake lashes for the first time and they took a while to get used to them. I loved the look but I could not wear them every day. One of my teachers used to wear them and then cake them in mascara. If they bothered her she took them off and left them on her desk. Yuck!

Anyway, I was quite pleased with the overall effect and have booked her for the big day. Friday I had my regular trim and am working with my stylist to figure out what to do with my hair. It is very fine and some looks just won't work. I was considering getting extensions but after speaking with her and discussing our options, we nixed that idea.

Those are the fun parts. My dress should be here in a matter of weeks so that I can have my first fitting. Very exciting. I can't wait to see it again. The designer that made the dress does not have any pictures of it on the web so it will be a total surprise. Only my mom and I know what it looks like and it will stay that way.

Plus with our anticipated tax refund we are able to cover some more expenses and that is making us breathe easier. Actually, it is making us breathe a whole lot easier. We will not be in debt which makes us extremely happy.

Oh and we have officially booked our hotels in Paris and Barcelona. So the honeymoon is all booked and done.

T minus 5 months.

You spin me round

I have vertigo...again. I tend to get vertigo every once in a while but it lasts at most two days. Well we are in day three and it is getting worse so I suspect that I have an ear infection. I decided that I was not going to drive to work because driving when you are feeling dizzy is not a good thing so I am going to work from home.

I am also going to go to a minute/ urgent care clinic to get it checked out. I don't have a GP yet. I had a really awesome one when I lived in Oak Park but since I have moved I have not really bothered to get one. I mean I see my specialists a few times a year but in this case, I should have one. But in the interim, I will be going to the drugstore clinic.

I am really hoping that this feeling ends soon. It is not a fun.

The beat goes on

So my shoes finally arrived and I was a giddy pool of delight. Fed Ex still sucks though….

Wedding planning is continuing and we have had a few lulls in the craziness. The BF and I are working on out to do lists. One of the top things that I have to do is renew my passport. My passport expires in October but due to EU restrictions, my expatriation date must be no less than three months away so I miss the cut off by a few weeks. I have to get that done my next week which is my timeline.

I have a lot more to do but then again we have crossed off a lot as well. Next up is invitations, which has already had their own source of drama. But it will be okay. I am trying not to let some things get me down but that is easier said than done.

EX does not mark the spot!

I ordered two pairs of shoes from a company that specializes in people with smaller feet. Since they are such a niche company things sell out fast and once I got the catalogue I drooled from page one until that last page. But I have to be rational and narrow it down. So from 5 I picked 3 and then from those three I picked two and could not decide between the two so I decided to get both.

I could justify them because I can use them for parties and showers. Plus one pair may be used in our engagement photo session and one pair will be perfect with my rehearsal dinner dress and another dress that I plan to wear to the BF's brother's wedding in October. Of course they will come with me to Paris and Barcelona and I have some outfits that will work with them. So I have definite plans for them.

Fed Ex however has decided that my shoes will be delayed. Due to the service selected they only delivery between Tuesday and Saturday. Ok I am fine with that after all they are coming to my office so I know that I will get them. The problem that I have is that they come after business hours so we are closed. So I call them today to ask them to put a note that advises the local depot of our hours. They can't do that!

I worked in customer service and I worked in a business that deals with similar not the same customer request. There was always a way that we could take changes of info and pass it along to our vendors. Vendors prefer to be kept informed. So it is understandable why I am unhappy with Fed Ex's service right now. So much for customer service.

I will be so pissed if my shoes get returned.

Random conversations

I have been talking with my best friend who is my matron of honor lately and here are some fun snippets....

MR-Why are they (her hubby/men in general) crazy
Me-It is in the chromosomes
MR-I guess
Me-Well Crazy has a Y in it, there is no X
MR-(Laughs) where did you hear that one
Me-I made it up
MR-It is so funny and true, I am so going to use it!

After a discussion about having a bridal shower, she was going to send an email to the bridesmaids. We hang up she calls me back

MR-Ok, you have six bridesmaids right?
Me-Yep
MR-why do I only have five email addresses
Me-...
MR-Oh that is right, me. never mind
Me-Hysterical laughing

That is what friends are for!

Playing by the rules

Sometimes playing by the rules sucks.

With all the talk and buzz about the stimulus package and deals for homeowners we were hoping that there was a way we can benefit. The BF being the tax and numbers guy that he is started crunching numbers and figuring out if we can benefit from a lower rate and the answer is…probably not Collectively we make too much, but I on my own may be able to qualify but as both of our names are on the mortgage we are thinking that it will make it null and void.

So because we saved. had very good credit, put a down payment, elected to have a traditional mortgage and bought a place that was lower than our pre-qualifying amount we get no benefits. We have a decent interest rate and have paid our mortgage on time and still have very good credit we don't qualify. Why because as the numbers point out, we live within our means, of course this does not take into account, student loans, car payments, and other debt.

Yes, we would like to have a lower interest which would result in a few hundred dollars a month thus preventing us from dipping into savings account too many times to count but we may not qualify because we played by the rules. So technically, we should have bought a place beyond our means, default on a few mortgage payments, made no or very little down payment and ruin our credit….then we would qualify

The full rules come out on March 4th so there may be a slim chance that we may be able to squeak by, But in the mean time we are going to send an email to our senator (the one who was voted in not the one who is now under a cloud of "we knew it, you liar" doubt)

Fingers crossed!

Noodles

One of the downsides of my trips out to the east coast (besides the flight delays) is the fact that my credit card bills are due before I receive my expense reimbursements.

Ramen noodles anyone?

Only the bullets

• I am so freaking tired.
• My 7 pm flight did not leave until 9:20 so I did not get home until 11:30
• The rental agent at the airport told me that I am cool, like ice water...not to sure how to take that
• My flight to NJ left early and arrived a half hour earlier than expected.
• I heart Diet Snapple, I did not realize how much I missed it until I had it again
• My next rental car will have a bumper sticker that says "If you are going to ride my ass, buy me dinner first"
• One of my sample projects in the training I was in was to plan my wedding, I spent over 4000 hours while the BF spend 400 but these numbers are based on some general assumptions and time that I spent dealing with some BM issues.
• All I want to do is sleep
• I got to see one of my old bosses and we had a few martinis at the hotel bar, it was great to chat and catch up with her. She was one of the best bosses that I ever had.
• I have to head back in 2 to 3 weeks ugh!
• Thanks for some Chick Lit recommendations, I bought two books yesterday and read 75% of the first one.

My newest addiction

Ok, this is hard to admit but I'm addicted to Chick Lit. I don't know where it started but I can't stop. It is what I have been reading at the airport on the plane and finishing at home. Some are vapid, shallow and predictible but I can't get enough. I tend to read more substantial books so this is a new development. I think it is because they are an easy read and I can easily pick up with the story and they are entertaining.

So too feed my newest book addition, what is your favorite piece of chick lit? You know you have some...

When all you want to do is get there

After spending over 25 hours traveling, I am back home. This trip was a one that could not have been over fast enough.

I got into NJ after 10 pm, by the time I got to the hotel it was well after 11 pm. I fell asleep at around 12:45. Got up six hours later, was in the office at 7:45, worked in my bosses office until 9:30, prepped for the presentation in the conference room until we started at 10. We were done by 11:30, spoke to a few executives and other meeting participants until 11:50 am. Then my boss and I went to grab lunch and were back our our desk eating by 12:10 pm and we had a brief meeting until 1:30, then I grabbed an IT guy to install a program on my system and by 2 I was out of there.

I got to the airport gate at 3 (after returning the rental) hoping to be ready to by 3:35 as per my ticket. Only to find out the flight was delayed for an hour and a half. Finally at 5:45 they started to board but all the business people were pushy at the gate and it became somewhat of a herd mentality and when I boarded (according to my proper group number) I saw that there were a few overhead bins empty, some of these people snuck on board (I seriously doubt they were all platinum members), I finally found my seat and stowed my bag. We took off a half our later and landed at 7:45 or so. By the time I got to my car in parking lot in the farthest reaches of the airport it was 8:20 and I was home within the hour.

To think that I have to do this all again on Monday is why I am drinking tonight!

Grrrr

Well, it appears that my afternnon flight has been canceled and I've been re-booked for an evening something flight. So that means I get in late and to the hotel even later. the whole reason I booked the afternoon flight is so that I did not have to drive in the dark and so I can get a good night sleep before my morning meeting.

The reason...too much air traffic in the NY Metropolitian area.

Grrr.

To calm myself I am going to Portillo's for lunch. I think that is a reasonable tool of comfort!

To take the chill out

Since we are in the middle of the winter, I get to the point where 6 weeks seems like an eternity and the cold stays in my bones.

So I have been on a slow-cooking-take-the-chill-out- thon. Last week the BF made chili because I love his chili. I have never had chili before I moved out here. I had it only once before I met the BF. His is the best and I love it Cincinnati style with extra cheese.

On Sunday, I made a beef stew and had that over egg noodles. It was ok, I could not find my regular recipe so I tried another one and it was missing something but now I know what I can mix into it next time, canned diced tomatoes. The upside is that beef stew leftovers are so yummy.

Last night I made fresh onion soup. I love onion soup and it is so easy to make. I make it ever few months because it is one of my favs but seriously it is so comforting and it makes me happy. Again the cheese may be the reason.

I want to try this garlic soup that I have had at the chopping block that is SO good but am running out of tupperwear.

Of course the most fav get the chill out thing for me to make is hot chocolate with milk and Munster cheese. When I grew up we did not have instant, my mom is from Colombia so we had these special chocolate bars that you would slowly melt with milk. It was always served with metlty cheese and as kids we would put our cheese in the chocolate and it is bliss. I can't drink instant hot chocolate mix it tastes fake to me.

What are your warm day comfort foods? Any ones that I should try?

(If you want any recipes, let me know)

Snooping on myself

I wanted to double check that I registered for something at one of the stores that we spent hours in with a scanner so I logged in. Lo and behold, some of our items have been purchased but I can't help feel bad that I know but I don't know who purchased them. I am going to try to limit myself from checking because I want to be surprised.

However, the sham WOW that the BF registered for is still available.

Enough about the wedding. I have to head back to the land of guidos and speedos on Wednesday for one night. I will be back on Thursday but then head out again on Monday until Wednesday night. Lucky for me, I have a few documents that show that my in person time in NJ will not be as demanding as I thought as most of the work will be done remotely. But that can change but for now it is a nice notion.

Oh and it will be in the 40s on Friday, let the melting commence!

Not that type of girl

I am not a football person, I don't get the game, I think that it is boring and I rarely watch the Big game. I have only watched two games in my life and think that is more than enough.

So while the most of the world is watching the game I intend to:
Clean the bathroom
Mop the floors
Make Beef stew (I may also make onion soup)
Do a load of laundry
Run my final errands for the weekend
Watch a move.

And I could not be happier.

So do you watch the game or do you do other things?

Smothered

Part of the reason that I am starting to get stressed out during the wedding planning is in dealing with my parents. The BF and I had some ideas that were quickly dismissed by my parents and everything we do or talk about garners a flood of opinions most of which are in direct opposition of what we want.

They have a way of treating me like I am 12 they neglect to look at the fact that I have not lived under their roof in a number of years. They forget that I moved half way across the country, purchased my first car, my first home and have a MBA without their assistance.

Instead they talk to me like I have not considered all the options and balk at some ideas that may be out of the norm. Heaven forbid we get married on a Friday, we will be asking too much from people to travel (even though midweek airfare is cheaper!), we can't have a reception in a "loft" how will people get from their hotel to the venue, what if they drink? (we were going to have a trolley/van for transportation) but no no no. the biggest agreement had to do with who would be my bridesmaids, it got so bad it reduced me to tears and when I really think about it I get so pissed.

Now they are having opinions on some things that we have on our to do list. We are in the process of meeting with florists and they think it is too soon and go on to compare me with my brother. That my friends, is a dangerous thing for them to do especially after I have explicitly told them that my ideas are not going to mirror his and that I do not want to be compared to him and his wedding. End of story!

I was so upset after speaking with my mother yesterday that I decided two things. The first, I am no longer telling them our ideas and suggestions, we are just going to do them. The second, I will most likely refuse any more offers of help from them. They have reduced me to a ball of stress that the BF has to deal with.

He has been a trooper with them but as an outside observer he sees how they treat me and it is starting to upset him. My mom is the queen of passive aggressive tactics and her "not meaning to insult" insults, she has asked me a question and then an hour or two later when I am out of the room will ask the BF to see if she gets the same answer. I have become immune to it but lately, I have started to react to it. I am afraid that they will push me to a point where not only will I snap but so will he. So it is best that I limit my contact with them while we are working on the planning.

So yes mom, you and dad are part of the reason why I had to go to see a counselor a few years ago and I found her again so I may have to pick up where I left off.

Vegas is looking good.

Second guesses

Yesterday afternoon out of the blue I started to second guess some wedding things. Part of this was spurred on by a quote for a vendor for linens and transportation. So this lead to a mini-freak out. I started to second guess the photographer, the save the dates and other details. I think part of it is some wedding blogs and sites that I read. They have these great ideas but I just don't have the time nor money to do all the things that I want to do. So I am doing the best that I can but, it still makes me question almost everything.

Part of the freak out is that I have never planned a wedding before and there are tons of details that need to be done and pop into my head at random times, the other part is that I am so burned out on wedding things and the other part is the budget, we have a hypothetical one. One that does not take into account how we will pay for some things. So that freaks me out.

I love the planning and the dreaming of ideas process but the reality of the situation causes stress. It is easy to be consumed by the planning and the stress that comes with it. Sure I can ask people to help but I can't even figure out what they can help with. I would love to "shelf" the wedding plans but I did that when I was in NJ so now I have to work on the next to do items.

I just wish I was confident enough to trust the people we are hiring and not second guess them for no reason. Sure my wedding will not be written about but it is our day and we are two unique non cookie cutter people. I think that I have to trust us as well.

What stresses you out and causes you to second guess things at random?

Not making the cut

So for the past few weeks, the BF and I have been updating our invite list for the upcoming nuptials. We have been correcting addresses, adding people and subtracting people. In the end, we have a substantial list that we are satisfied with. Most are friends and family and a few are co-workers. We have talked about who to invite and worked it out with the families to ensure that some of their friends are invited.

But our main rule was that one of us had to know the person who will be on the list. We did not want to invite people we had no idea who they were but that our parents knew from work, the grocery store etc.

Well, last week while I was in the land of guidos and speedos, one of the sales team was having a meeting. Since I was in CS I knew some of them. I bumped into one of my sales reps who I go back 9 years with so she and I were chatting. When I went to another part of the office I was accosted by a sales rep who I had some minor dealings with as a rep and he is extremely chatty. When we parted and as I was walking to the room I was using, he mentioned how he is looking forward to getting the invitation.

My mouth fell open. What do you say? He was not on the list, nor will he be put on the list. But what do you say at that point. I opted for the non-committal laugh and turned and walked away. Even if I worked with him for years he would not be on my list.

Now some of my friends from high school who I lost touch with and haven't seen in at least 6 or 7 years are out of the woodwork. There is one whose parents are on our invite list (at the insistence of my parents because they have been invited to all their kids weddings). However, she is not on the list. If I haven't seen nor spoken to you in about 6 years, you are not invited. The other friend I haven't seen in a number of years but we talk once or twice a year. She left me a message yesterday saying how she knew I was engaged and wanted to know when the wedding was (I suspect to make plans to attend). But she was not on our list.

I am not adding any more people.

What do you do. How do you tell people that you are not making the cut!

Casa sweet Casa

I was thrilled when my flight landed on Friday. I could not wait to get home but of course that was delayed by the mix up at baggage claim. then I hopped into a scary cab and the BF was waiting for me on the curb to help me with my bag. The two beasts were thrilled to see me and I was so happy to see everyone. Everyone got hugs and kisses.

Saturday the BF and I went out for breakfast and then to the mall. We had to start our registry and spend a few hours with a scanner at Macy's. The woman who helped us could not have been any nicer, she was an older woman but was on top of the game and was very helpful. We were so tired when we were done with everything.

I made this simple easy pasta with spinach fresh cherry tomatoes and parama cheese and it was nice to cook again. Plus it was healthy and easy.

Yesterday, we went to run a few more errands and register in one more store and one of us registered for a Sham WOW. The BF made some chili and it was so good and hearty. It was nice to have a homemade dinner and not eat out. We had the fire on and the beasts were sitting in front of the fire sleeping and lounging.

I have a question, if anyone has been to Paris, what district are nice to stay in?

Hours countdown

I am FINALLY heading home tonight. I can not wait, it has been a very long and productive two weeks. I worked on average 9 hours a day (including working lunches) and was a captive at the hotel when I was done except for a few nights out with friends and the trip to the mall.

I did make it to the gym a few times but I was the only female in most cases but it got my energy out. I also realized that network TV is crap.

But that is all behind me and I get to go home to see my guy and the beasts. Apparently the two babies have been very clingy and have even cuddled with each other for attention.

Tonight I expect to sleep in my bed next to the BF, with a cat on my head and a lab snoring.

Good times.

(I am not going to think about the fact that I will be back in a few weeks)

The Dawn of a New Day

I missed the events on TV today because I was in a meeting but I kept glancing at my watch and at 12, I breathed a sigh of relief that things will be changed.

A moment that will live on in history, a moment in time, that even though I did not get to watch it live, the feeling transended it all.

What a good day to be an American.

As Annie sang

The sun will come out tomorrow...

Source

Still stuck here

I feel like I should be writing a log like a castaway on some remote island but rather I am stuck here in NJ.

My past two days have been productive and I have worked up to 9 hours a day on the project. The hotel is only a few miles away so I am "home" in minutes but then things slow down and I get very bored. The TV that i have is limited to network stuff (which is crap by the way) and the news and sports channel. I do get the History and Discovery channel and HBO but no Jon Stewart to lull me to sleep with his snarky but relevant comments.

After work today, I ventured to the mall. I actually wanted to go to the book store to stock up on a book or two because I need something to read and I have one more chapter in the book I am reading that I will go through. This mall was huge and was a study in NJ-ness. I felt like the anthropologist in the Gieco commercial just people watching. It was interesting to say the least.

It is getting old fast here but things have to get done. I miss the beasts and the man terribly but I don't miss the lovely weather. Ironically, the weather here is going to get cold...in the high teens. What wusses, put a minus in front of the number and call me!

Send help.....

Lurkers unite

Apparently today is de-lurkers day. So if there are any lurkers now is the time to comment. Even if you are a regular reader drop a comment.

To make it interesting, answer the following question, If today was your last day on earth but only you know (and can't tell anyone) what would you do and why?

Discuss....

On your mark, get set

Well I am blogging from the lovely hotel here in NJ. I made it in yesterday if you can believe it. Granted my flight was delayed for 3 hours I actually took off. I was secretly hoping that the flight would be canceled so I could spend one more night at home with the guy and the two beasts.

I was suppose to spend the night at my parent's house but my mom was panicky with the weather. See the NY/NJ area got a whopping 3 inches but there was an ice storm that followed. So I checked in, got me some room service and vegged out.

Today I headed across the Hudson to see the parental units and of course my dog. My mom was able to hem three pairs of pants that needed to be fixed. It was nice to be home for a few hours and I was able to have a nag free visit. It is very refreshing.

Tomorrow starts the beginning of the intense work week. I just have to be on top of my game and just let it be.

I had a bit of wedding drama the other day. One of my bridesmaids had to drop out due to the economic situation. I completely understand but still burst into tears after I hung up. It was the cherry on top of a crappy day. But things have worked out and one of my other friends will be able to participate and all will be well. It is the roller coaster of the whole wedding planning thing.

Overwhelmed

I am feeling so overwhelmed and insignificant at the same time on so many levels.

Kind of ironic but they are making me feel like crap.

Ick

This Saturday I head out east for a two week work assignment. That is two week straight, I am not coming home on the weekend because there is no point flying out late Friday night only to leave on Sunday afternoon. So I am staying there but I will get to see my parents and have the 1, 239 "discussion" about some aspect of the wedding and what they think we should do. The only reason I a seeing them is because I need three pants tailored and my mom sews (Note to self-learn how to sew) so that is the only reason. Next weekend I am seeing my friends and causing all sorts of havoc all over NYC but more than likely I will be too pooped to do anything crazy. At least I got booked at the good hotel not the creepy hotel so I can use the gym without any excuses. Plus I plan on being frustrated at times and it would be a good way to work through it.

I have an intensive schedule with meetings from 8-5 each day. Some meetings I will be more like a facilitator, others I will lead and yet others I will just be in attendance. One the one side, I am so glad to have gotten the green light and the green bucks to proceed with the project but on the other hand it is going to be a intense few months and I get stressed thinking about it. Plus the whole wedding is another project in itself.

Thankfully the BF has stepped up to the plate and has checked off a few things on our list and plans to tackle a few more items when I am gone. I am so glad because I can’t imagine doing two projects next week. Like me, is not too keen with me being gone, a few days is not a probe but after a two weeks it will be tough. the babies get a wee bit needy and do not like it when things are not the same. He can handle it but I will miss him and that is what is on my mind the most these past two days.

There is never a dull moment and I am glad to have a job in these times.

And the new year begins

I hope that everyone had a nice New Year's celebration.

I ended '08 with some stomach issues so that was a fun way to end the year. The BF and I spend the day running errands and with me purchasing some travel books about Paris and Barcelona then lunch then a few hours later me not feeling so good. We did make it to midnight with me whispering in my beloved's ear that we will be getting married in 8 months!

On New Year's day, we were informed that his brother got engaged. We are so happy for them, so that evening we went out to celebrate and I was able to pass along an extra planning book that I had. They are planning a fall wedding so there are two weddings this year.

We had a low key few days getting errands done, cleaning the piles of stuff that are around and sleeping. I slept for hours upon hours.

I did get some great news, last week I did an interview and one question was about a person that I lost touch with and if how will I re-connect. Well, I mentioned my friend and his wife who are in Scotland and that I was going to send the a wedding invitation. Well when we got engaged, I sent them an email and did not hear from them until yesterday. Due to work commitments, he has been unable to take the time to respond but that he will be thrilled to attend our wedding and said that wild horses would not keep him away. Unfortunately, his wife's fear of flying has gotten worse and she will not be able to attend. I am so thrilled.

2009 is looking good.

How has the year treated you?

The interview

Yesterday, Nilsa posted an interview that she did with another blogger. She received and answered five questions.

Here are the simple rules,
1. If you want to participate, leave me a comment saying, “Interview me.” (And your e-mail address, please.)
2. I will respond by emailing you five questions. I get to pick the questions.
3. You will update your blog with the answers to the questions.
4. You will include this explanation and an offer to interview someone else in the same post
5. When others comment asking to be interviewed, you will ask them five questions.

Be sure to link back to the person who interviewed you. So here are Nilsa's questions with my answers:

(1) Name only one blogger you really respect and tell me why.

Ok this was a toughie because I have such respect for all the bloggers whom I read but if I have to pick one, it will be the one that I have read the longest, Diana. I find her humor and honesty refreshing. She takes a good, honest and sometimes hard look at herself and then comes up with the ways that she can and will tackle the situation. She makes no excuses and has such strong will power that I can only wish I had. She has taken the time to grow and evolve in such a way that makes me aspire to. I have been fortunate to meet her and she is one amazing friend. She rocks in so many ways.

(2) If you had to pick a non-urban, U.S. destination in which to vacation for a week, where would you go?

I would actually like to go RV'ing to the western states like Montana, Idaho and Wyoming. I really would love to see the plains and the Rockies. I would also like to see the Dakotas. However it will have to be in the spring or summer there is no way I would go in the winter.

(3) If you had $500 to spend on housing, food and entertainment for the trip mentioned in (2), how would you spend it?

Well mostly food and gas. I would also use it for park admission and the occasion meal. I would probably do a lot of grilling and cooking. As for entertainment, I would have my books and the BF but looking at the stars is not a bad thing either.


(4) Tell me about one person with whom you've lost touch. If you hope for a reunion, how would you like that reunion to take place?

I lost touch with my friend and his wife who moved to Scotland. We used to be really close and then he moved and we lost touch. I have gone to Edinburgh to attend their wedding a few years ago and I am going to invite them to mine. I would love to re-connect with them, the two of them are such incredible people.

(5) In 2008, what was your biggest achievement and your biggest failure/disappointment?

My biggest achievement was being able to afford a condo. It was somewhat of a spur of the moment decision after hobo guy issues but when we look back it was the best thing we could have done. I love my place and experiencing the whole process made me grow up in a way. My biggest disappointment was not getting the photographer we wanted. I had to let that one go.

If you want to participate drop a comment.

To each and every one have a very happy 2009 may this be a year where all you find is happiness.

Where in the world is Carmen Sandiego going on her honeymoon?

So the BF is off this week and has been working on some things that are on our wedding to do list. Specifically, DJs, tuxs, save the date ideas and finally honeymoon stuff.

Early on (even before we got engaged) we were always talking about where we are going to go, what we are going to eat, what we want to see. The list is ever expanding and never is short of ideas.

After the engagement, we were narrowing down ideas. Early this year, before the hobo breaking into the building issue that made us buy a condo, we wanted to go to Paris. We looked at flights, hotels and what we would do for a week. Then we decided to go for broke and purchased our place so Paris was shelved.

We we also talking about Spain, the food, the culture, the country. There were lots of travel shows and Specifically this one. One day out of the blue, the BF informed me that he wanted to go to Barcelona! So we were set, we were going to go to Barcelona.

I've been to Barcelona once in high school and since we were there for a short time (two days) I have a few memories. So I am excited to go especially with the BF!

We have decided to take two weeks for our honeymoon since we have the vacation time and after dealing with the craziness of the wedding and mostly dealing with my mother (a source of stress for me at most times of the year). However, two weeks in Barcelona might be too much for me. It is not a large city so the activities are limited after a few days. Sure the food will be awesome but I can't eat iberico ham all the time...oh wait yes I can...never mind.

So I mentioned that perhaps we can split up our weeks, spend one week in Barcelona and another somewhere else. Perhaps Madrid, Seville or another area. Last night he mentioned that he wants to go to Paris and Barcelona.

I've been to Paris with the high school group and had a great time. But, I really want to see more of Spain and after reading the guide book we got from my brother, I want to spend a few months exploring Spain. However, the BF has never been to Europe and wants to make the most of the opportunity.

So here are the options:
1-Paris and Barcelona
2-Add another week to our honeymoon (we both can do this but this leaves me with 5 vacation days left)
3-Another part of Spain and Barcelona.

We really do not want to spend a lot of time traveling from one location to another. We are also wanting to be centrally located so we are going to get an apartment for each week.

So what would you do in this situation? I look at it as we can't lose!

A mellow merry

We spent the day with the BF's fam yesterday. We finally got out of our iced in parking spot and headed west for the day. It was very mellow and quiet, the girls got a Wii so they were busy with the games and their toys so they were kept very busy. The food was delish and I made two dishes

One was this easy cheese puff appetizer that was just made with butter, flour, Guyer cheese, salt and some Cayenne pepper. It was so easy, if anyone wants the recipe let me know. The second was the chocolate crinkle cookies that I made this past weekend. Both were hits.

Before Christmas I went to the Chopping Block and it was one of the best, the food that they made was so delish. They made awesome margaritas, this cheese Focaccia bread with a three cheese spread, salty Carmel brownies, truffle fries and steamed mussels. It was the highlights of some popular restaurants and they were all so wonderful.

Today we went to a local mall and I finally bought a pair of jeans! I also got another pair of pants, a cute sweater and stocked up on some refills of my sephroa favs.

We are getting ramped up for more wedding to dos. It is easier said than done. Guess who has to spend two weeks in NJ for work?

Now that the holidays are over, we have a lot of wedding things to do.

Yes

As today is Christmas eve I just wanted to post this reminder about the magic, the miracles that surround this holiday season no matter what faith you are...

Eight-year-old Virginia O'Hanlon wrote a letter to the editor of New York's Sun, and the quick response was printed as an unsigned editorial Sept. 21, 1897. The work of veteran newsman Francis Pharcellus Church has since become history's most reprinted newspaper editorial, appearing in part or whole in dozens of languages in books, movies, and other editorials, and on posters and stamps.

"DEAR EDITOR: I am 8 years old. "Some of my little friends say there is no Santa Claus. "Papa says, 'If you see it in THE SUN it's so.' "Please tell me the truth; is there a Santa Claus?"VIRGINIA O'HANLON."115 WEST NINETY-FIFTH STREET.

"VIRGINIA, your little friends are wrong. They have been affected by the skepticism of a skeptical age. They do not believe except [what] they see. They think that nothing can be which is not comprehensible by their little minds. All minds, Virginia, whether they be men's or children's, are little. In this great universe of ours man is a mere insect, an ant, in his intellect, as compared with the boundless world about him, as measured by the intelligence capable of grasping the whole of truth and knowledge.

Yes, VIRGINIA, there is a Santa Claus. He exists as certainly as love and generosity and devotion exist, and you know that they abound and give to your life its highest beauty and joy. Alas! how dreary would be the world if there were no Santa Claus. It would be as dreary as if there were no VIRGINIAS. There would be no childlike faith then, no poetry, no romance to make tolerable this existence. We should have no enjoyment, except in sense and sight. The eternal light with which childhood fills the world would be extinguished.Not believe in Santa Claus! You might as well not believe in fairies!

You might get your papa to hire men to watch in all the chimneys on Christmas Eve to catch Santa Claus, but even if they did not see Santa Claus coming down, what would that prove? Nobody sees Santa Claus, but that is no sign that there is no Santa Claus. The most real things in the world are those that neither children nor men can see. Did you ever see fairies dancing on the lawn? Of course not, but that's no proof that they are not there. Nobody can conceive or imagine all the wonders there are unseen and unseeable in the world.You may tear apart the baby's rattle and see what makes the noise inside, but there is a veil covering the unseen world which not the strongest man, nor even the united strength of all the strongest men that ever lived, could tear apart. Only faith, fancy, poetry, love, romance, can push aside that curtain and view and picture the supernal beauty and glory beyond. Is it all real?

Ah, VIRGINIA, in all this world there is nothing else real and abiding. No Santa Claus! Thank God! he lives, and he lives forever. A thousand years from now, Virginia, nay, ten times ten thousand years from now, he will continue to make glad the heart of childhood.

(source)

Iced in

My car is encased in a block of ice, I tried to dig it out, I tried to warm up the car and it is not working. I could not move it. So I gave up trying so I went back inside and plugged into work from home.

Today at 6:30 it was -20 with the wind chill. My key chain was so cold when I got in the condo that I could not hold them without gloves for very long. I still have the chill in my bones. I may work in front of the fireplace just to warm up.

We had a very lazy weekend, I made cookies, wrapped the last of the presents and did laundry. It was great to finally have a low key weekend without a lot of running around or errands to do.

I just want it to warm up.

Don't taunt the ill

The BF is sick and has not been feeling well for the past few days. He has been sleeping and spent most of the past two days in bed with the cat being a murse.

A package arrived from Sweet Beginnings and they had the foam peanuts so I wanted to see if they were biodegrable so I tossed on in the loo to see if they would dissolve and it started to. I got distracted and left the peanut in the loo.

The BF went to the bathroom and came out a little while later:

BF: I got to take a photo
(runs to get his phone)

On the way to the bathroom, he stopped and saw the peanuts that were on the coffee table, and asked if I happened to toss one in the loo. I said that I did

BF: thank god, I thought I had King George Disease! (which is an illness that causes your urine to turn blue)

I died laughing. He did not find it nearly as funny.

Spreading the word

One of my new fav bloggers, pseudostoops is doing a really amazing way to raise money and awareness for 5 deserving charities. Each day she profiles one, that charity is guaranteed $25 and with each comment, she will donate another $0.50.

So far she has profiled:
Monday-North Lawndale Employment Network
Tuesday-The Women’s Treatment Center
Wednesday-The Night Ministry
Thursday-College Summit
Friday-It is up to you, suggest a charity you think she should send the money too.


In fact, she has a matching donor today so they will match the amount that she raises.

How cool is that!

Tis this season, help those who are in need just by commenting on one cool ass blog!

Not a record

It only took me three and a half hours to get home from work yesterday.

My record is four.

I so hate this weather!

Cold to the bones

This morning it just feels like the cold weather has made it all the way to the bones. I just want to cuddles up in bed with the cat and just veg out. We are expecting some more snow today and I am so over this already.

Last night I dreamt that I was in a Key West hotel in shorts. It was just a dream though and I am not happy it did not magically come true.

We are getting ready for the holidays. I am thinking of what we can eat on Christmas eve as we are spending the day with the BF's fam. I am thinking of making an anti-pasto platter for us to munch on during the course of the day. Who does not like cheese, crackers and dried meat? For dinner I am wanting to continue the theme so I am thinking of making spinach and prosciutto ricotta lasagna or actually make some homemade raviolis with a nice trio of cheese stuffing. Dessert will be optional and wine will be flowing and it will just be the two of us by the tree with the fireplace going.

I can't wait.

I ate, therefore I am.

On Saturday, Diana , CBN and I had a girls only foodie day. We started off with tapas at one of the hands down best tapas places ever...Tapas Barcelona. I seriously crave their olives and I don't typically like olives. We then hopped in the car and headed to the Spice House where we stocked up on a few things. We wandered around a bit and CBN dragged us (OK not really dragged) to the Great Harvest Bread Co. I got this amazing asiago pesto bread (Oh and half of a Chocolate babka which is bread with chocolate chips baked in the middle, we have maybe a slice of that left). We then headed back into the car to go to Cauputo's Italian grocery store for cheese and Italian delicacies.

Afterwards we came back to my place to make some carmel apple crepes and chocolate peppermint martinis. We all had a blast and I for one am still full of food!

Yesterday, we went to the BF's niece's 2nd birthday in west bumblefuck. Each time we go out there it seems longer and longer. The birthday girl was in the cutest outfit and her cake was a 3-d of Elmo's head. There must have been at least 5 inches of frosting because they replicated fur. It was amazing but a wee bit freaky because it was a head on a silver platter....seriously freaking weird. We got out of there before the sugar hit the blood stream of the under 10 crowd and we did not partake in any cake.

Once we got back to the city AKA civilization, I wrapped a few presents, wrote the rest of my cards and got another Christmas gift from the BF.

It was destine to be an icy morning and I had to make sure I was ready for the trip! I am so over winter!

Another checked box

We settled on a photographer. It was making a choice between a Vogue photographer and a NY Times photographer. It basically came down to what we can afford and since we do not know the budget (very long story) we are under this assumption that we will have to pay for some elements.

So we decided on the NY Times style and although I like him and his photos, I really wish we could have gone with the Vogue.

It all comes down to money.

I just hope that we do not regret our decision right now, I am just feeling bummed.

This or that

I am indecisive, I have knack for delaying or not making certain decisions. If we are out and want to get a bite to eat, I am open for all suggestions. Yet, if I am wanting a specific item or I am starving then I will be more likely to pick a place.

I can also make decisions if one of the two scenarios is horrible or just does not work. It is especially hard when I have to make a choose between two good things but can only get one. That makes the decision very VERY hard. Weighting the pros and cons over and over again only to be back in the beginning. Even harder when we have a time pressure and have to make a decision today.

Where is my magic 8 ball. Oh yea it broke...

Ack!

Pay for the play

Finally!

It is about time that Bloggo got bagged.

I have utter contempt for people regardless of their political affiliation who are voted in to office yet are greedy, manipulative, self-serving, and corrupt. The rumors around have been buzzing for years. True he is innocent until proving guilty but if it quacks like a duck....

Well, this will be an interesting turn of events.

I admire Patrick Fitzgerald, especially when he was on "Wait, wait don't tell me" last year. He recounted a story of when he had a free Sunday and decided to make himself a roasted chicken, he put it in the oven, got called in to work, turned off the oven and left the bird in there....for two months! Goes to show us he has his moments too but he is never one to back down!

~~~
In other news, I am not sure how I can afford these next few months. The repayment of student loans have taken a big dent out of my disposable income. If I do get a raise, it will be effective in March...a big IF. I have also cut back on what I will give out for Christmas, no longer shop at the bigger grocery stores and have put off replacing a pair of jeans. I am thinking of getting a second job like so many others. I just got this huge medical bill (thanks co-insurance) and I am not sure how much I can leech off my savings.

Frankly, it sucks and it stresses me out to the point of tears.

Santa baby!

This morning I got up and got ready for work and not a soul was up. The BF took this whole week off "cause he can" and both pets could not be bothered with getting up if daddy wasn't getting up. So not fair! But he has his list....to be fair it does include video game time.

This weekend was a Christmas weekend. We got our first tree and put it up. The BF wanted to get a real one and I have not had a tree in 6 years or so. We were very excited and it looks lovely. The beasts are not impressed by it although now that it has been a few days, the cat is pondering how to use the bulbs to his advantage. We also got some of his nieces Christmas gifts and one of them has a birthday next week so we got her gift. Plus I made cookies, tons of cookies in fact. So we have enough to feed a small army! We gave some out yesterday to the BF's dad.

Yesterday, we got our gocco! I am so excited. Now the crazy invitation planning can start to commence. I have tons of ideas, it is hard to keep up with them. I need some time to get organized! I need a week off myself….sadly I just have only a few days at the holidays.

Do you think Santa can bring me more time off?

On the brain

-Last night I woke the BF up by telling him that "we haven't had the rehearsal dinner". Oh and I was asleep when I said it. We were both up after that pronouncement.

-My dad emailed me today to inform me that he was watching the State Opening of Parliament in the House of Lords and thinks that we should enter the church in the same manner as the queen. So I will have to take a ceremonial hostage ( a member of the House of Commons) then a horse drawn carriage to the church. Enter the area for the house of lords and then have someone summon members of the "commons" Basically he will have to knock at the church door, get the door slammed in our faces and then knock three times before the speaker of the house will let them in.

Oh and I will need a cape and a jeweled crown.

And the hijinks's ensued!

Hibernation

Ok, so if you are in the Chicago area you have probably heard that more snow is coming. The peek of this is due during rush hour this afternoon.

It is 12/3 and I am already done with the snow and the cold weather. I am done with the ice on the sidewalks, the slush on the streets and the puddles that form on my floors when one of us (mostly the dog) comes home.

I want to hibernated. Meaning that I will stay inside for most of the winter. I figure that the only time I will go out if there is no food and for the holidays. The rest of the time I will be in the apartment.

But then again I may turn into Howard Hughes!

So until then only a few more months of this...God willing!

Wedding weekend numero uno

So this weekend was full blown wedding weekend!


Saturday my mom and I went to look at dresses. Nilsa (thanks girl) recommended one person at the salon and lo and behold, I found my dress. I know that you are all wanting to know and since you are all excited, here is a sneak peek:
Stunning isn't it. I got to work on my abs oh and fake bake!

Actually I am not going to say a word about my dress until I walk down the asile. All I will say is that it is pretty and not what I expected it to be.

I also picked out my bridesmaid's dresses. I am giving them the option of picking their own dress. I picked the designer the color, the length and fabric, the rest is up to them. I want them to feel comfortable and hopefully wear the dress again. I think that they are excited to pick what they want to wear too.

Sunday the three of us went to a bridal expo. It was okay, I was expecting more vendors especially when in came to photographers. The BF liked the cake tasting and tolerated the craziness of too many women in one room.

We also showed my mom the church and the reception venue so that she can safely report that we are not getting married in a hovel.

What I need is a few days of non wedding stuff. But my gocco comes this week so this coming weekend we will be playing with it!

In non wedding news. My mother was tolerable for the most part. The BF noticed that she is the queen of underhanded comments. I have decided to ignore them and proceed with life. She has safely landed in NY and it will be a while before she returns.

Last night I made this awesome chicken dish that we learned in class a few weeks back. It was chicken in a Dijon cream sauce. If anyone wants the recipe, let me know. It was so good and easy!