I did it!

I posted every single day for the month of November.  They weren't all fun or exciting, but I did it.  Now that it's over, I may go on a little hiatus because this girl needs to focus on exams. 

But right now, I need your advice.  During our upcoming trip to England, Ian and I are taking a day/night away from his family for a little us time in London.  When I went to London 6 years ago, I stayed in an apartment so this time around I have no idea what hotel to stay in! 

If any of my readers have been there or live there and can recommend a nice hotel, please leave me a comment!

Almost Over

NaBloPoMo is almost over - and I have to say I'm happy about it.  It certainly is challenging towards the end of it to come up with something to post every.single.day.  Although I did come across some other fun blogs through the month, so I'm pretty happy about that.  Would I do it again? Most definitely.  But this time of the school year isn't the best - it's time for me to start preparing for exams which means I am anything but creative.  So I may skip next year since it'll be my last law school year and November is tough.

Anyways, on this Sunday, I'm rooting for my fantasy football players to play super well.  I am currently 7-4, and was in 1st place in my division going into this week.  I only have this week and next week before playoffs start, and if I finish in first place at the end of regular season, I win $50.  That's what I'm going for!  So wish me luck as I head into these next two Sundays!

Lazy

Today has been rather lazy, and to go along with it, I really have nothing interesting to write.  I've been working for most of the day, and had some yummy meals as breaks.  Hopefully I'll be back with some more interesting stories for you.

Black Friday

I've made it pretty clear that I truly dislike shopping.  I get claustrophic and hungry and clammy all at the same time.  People are often rude and invade my personal space and I quickly freak out and have to leave the mall, or find a bench to rest on.  But then I start freaking out about the number of germs I'm breathing in from all the people walking by me.  Basically, I'm a disaster in malls.

In open malls, like at outlets, I do much better.  If I feel claustrophic, I step outside and get fresh air.  And being out in the fresh air in between stores helps refresh me a bit.

All of this leads me to say that going shopping at stores on Black Friday is pretty much out of the question.  So instead - I do most of my shopping online. 

And my big purchase today - Hanky Panky underwear.  Wow - I really wish I could've splurged on something a little more exciting, but what can I say, I love me some Hanky Panky's.  And it cost me a total of $0 because I had a store credit (from the store messing up a previous order - they gave me a big credit).  I'm pretty pleased with me one and only purchase!

Now, we're off to get some thai food!  Happy Friday!

Happy Thanksgiving

Have a safe, wonderful, delicious day!

Grateful

Since tomorrow's post will be short, today's post will cover what I would've been writing for tomorrow, on Thanksgiving.

Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday.  While I love Christmas decorations and music a ton, I love that Thanksgiving is a holiday that revolves around just spending time with family and eating great food.  I love that there's no pressure to find the perfect gift, no money stresses from all the gifts, and there's no let down at the end of the day like I sometimes find there is on Christmas.

It's also a time of year that I sit and remember what I've been grateful for this year.  I am incredibly grateful that I made it through my first year of law school.  I am so lucky to have Ian in my life, supporting me day in and day out.  Even more so, I am grateful that through law school, the stressful times actually strengthened our relationship, when they really could've hurt it.  I have a family who is so supportive and loving.  I have awesome in-laws who treat me as part of the family.  I have an adorable puppy who makes me smile everyday.  And my friends, my true friends, have been understanding and loyal over the last year.

And I've had so many awesome experiences this year - summer job, weddings, celebrations, vacations, and so much laughter.

I'm thankful for all of it.  And thank you readers, for staying with me along the way. 

What are you grateful for this year?

Time is a-flying

We finally had to do it - we turned the heat on.  I was really trying to wait until December 1st, but on Sunday when we got home after spending so much time outside in the cold watching the race, it needed to be turned on.  It's crazy that we're almost to December already!

It's really amazing how quickly time is going by.  It seems like each year goes by a little more quickly than the previous year.  Yet, I remember as a kid, time felt like it was going by soooo slowly.  I couldn't wait for the school year to be over so I could be outside or at the pool playing with friends.  I remember being bored sometimes.

Now, I cherish any moment where I have nothing to do, or when I feel slightly bored.  Because those moments are few and far between.  Honestly, I am overwhelmed sometimes because there is always something else to do, something more I should be doing, one more thing on that neverending to-do list.

And that neverending list gets a little overwhelming this time of year.  We have to do all the holiday related things: cards, presents, travel plans, etc.  But on top of it, I'm getting ready for exams.  And the whole exam thing makes me want to crawl into bed and wake up when it's all over.

But with Thanksgiving in two days, I'm looking forward to spending the day with family, relaxing, eating great food, and not thinking about anything on that to-do list.  We'll celebrate at Maggie's house as we do every year.  My mom, brother and SIL, and in-laws will all be there for the day.  Can't wait.

What are you looking forward to on Thanksgiving?

Philadelphia Marathon 2009

We got a late start on Saturday morning.  Ian was paranoid, rechecking what he packed to make sure he had everything.  I was really slow to even start my packing.  Finally, we were off to Philly.

I am not sure if I mentioned before, but you can normally get discount rates for hotels for coming for the marathon.  I didn't know this until we looked online at our hotel options.  Some of the standard, nice hotels were like $169 for the night.  Totally doable.  But, then I saw that the Ritz was $179, and hello, it was my birthday weekend that I was sacrificing for the hubby.  So we totally went for the Ritz.  It was well worth it - the service was outstanding and they even had hot apple cider in the lobby.  And we had an amazing view on top of it.  It was swee-et.

We arrived, gave a quick hello to Ian's parents, then we were off to walk to the expo to pick up his running day packet.  We had unusually warm weather for the weekend which was amazing - in the 40's and 50's.  The expo was incredibly disorganized and chaotic, so my claustrophobic self stayed in one spot and waited while Ian did his thing.  We quickly made it out of there where we caught up with fellow marathon runner Kim, her hubby Jeremy, and her friend Kristin for the walk back to our hotels.

We made it back to our hotel just as my brother and his wife arrived.  They wanted to go check out the city, see the liberty bell, and take some amazing photos (which I will be displaying at the end of the post). So we each got some hot apple cider and ventured out.  We took a good hour to walk around and then made it back to the hotel to give ourselves a few minutes to change before dinner.

The in-laws, brother and SIL and Ian and I walked to dinner a few blocks away.  We had dinner with Kim and Jeremy, and another friend Beth and her hubby who was also running in the marathon.  We went to Davios where the runners had lots of pasta, and the nonrunners ate wayyy too much food.  It was awesome.

We went back to the Ritz and grabbed a quick drink before calling it a night since we had to be up early on Sunday - race day!  I finished making Ian's signs while he got his stuff lined up for the morning.

Sunday, Ian was up and out the door by 6 a.m.  I decided to skip going to the start line, and instead the family met him at miles 1 and 6.  He was in great spirits at both of those miles which was good to see.  In between mile 6 and the finish, we grabbed a quick bite to eat.  We walked the 2 miles to the finish line and set up camp.  We anxiously awaited his arrival, and soon we saw his cute face coming up the incline.  My brother acted like the paparazzi and snapped some great photos. Surprisingly, Ian still looked comfortable, although I'd later learn that he was just freaking relieved to see us and for it to be over.

So he finished his first marathon in 4:09, which personally, I think is AWESOME!  He was hoping to beat 4:00 - but overall he's super happy to just be finished.  Seeing him finish was emotional and we both got a little choked up.  I'm not really sure why it was - but it was motivating and a proud moment to see him finish his goal after months of training.

He called out sick today because he can barely walk, and he thinks that will be his only marathon (I'm a little pleased about the second piece). 

Here are lots of pictures from our weekend:

Mile 1:

Mile 6:

Mile 6 again: (and clearly, he was feeling comfortable as he was goofing off)

And mile 26:

And after the race - I saw him and ran to give him a big hug:

And the sign I made said "Brits Do It Better".

And what am I holding in the other hand? 

Kim's husband gave Kim, Ian and Paul a bottle of champagne - so cute!

Amazing Race

Our time in Philadelphia, while short, was absolutely amazing.  I will have a very full recap tomorrow, along with some awesome pictures (thanks to my brother taking them). 

And two of our other friends also ran and finished strong. I'm sure Kim will have a recap of her own tomorrow.



We spent time with family, friends, had a great dinner, walked a ton, watched Ian run his first marathon and had a fantastic time while doing so (even though we both got a little emotional at the end of it).  I am incredibly proud of him for finishing it.  And he finished just over his goal of 4 hours - 4:09.

Lots to come tomorrow.

Big Weekend

We're packing and getting ready to head to Philadelphia for the night.  Ian's running is very first marathon tomorrow, and while he is super nervous (and his stomach is letting him know so), I am super excited for the weekend!  Spending time with family and friends, and most importantly, cheering Ian on is what I'm looking forward to!

I'll have a post tomorrow with pictures from our time there!

And to Ian - we'll be cheering you on and wishing you luck!

Late Twenties

At 2am this morning, I officially entered my late 20's - I turned 27.  It's hard to believe how quickly time seems to pass us by.

But I'm loving every minute of this birthday.

Last night, my law school friends had me over and we all ate indian takeout.  Then they surprised me with a cake, candles and singing happy birthday.  They have truly been one of the best things about my law school experience - they are amazing people.

Then, I got home from dinner and Ian wouldn't let me go upstairs.  I waited rather impatiently and then he came downstairs.  I asked for my present and he obliged!  I am incredibly spoiled by the hubs.  He got me this:

We had been looking for a nicer camera recently.  And what perfect timing - right before our big trip to England in a month.  So we've been testing it out - lots of pictures of Tessa thus far.

Today, we went to Clementine for breakfast.  I had heard good things and been wanting to check it out.  We both loved our meals and the old time feel of the place.  And even better - it was inexpensive!  We'll definitely be heading back there to check it out for lunch or dinner sometime soon.

Then - he surprised me.  He did something I didn't think he would ever do.  He bought two tickets (in advance) to New Moon for us to see it at 12:30 today.  I, of course, was ecstatic, but I think this definitely falls into the sacrifice category for him.  We saw it - with all the other Twilight nerds - and loved it.

I am one lucky girl.

Bullet-Point Thursday

Randomness that needs to be said in bullets (because it's Thursday and I'm ready for the weekend!):

• I am less than 4 weeks away from exams and am STRESSING.  I need to buckle down and get things going for that - so my posts will probably be shorter the further along into November we get.
• My law school friends are celebrating my birthday with me tonight.  They're ordering indian takeout and we're all going to relax and catch up.  Super excited!  I've truly found amazing friends in law school and am incredibly fortunate.
• Ian is getting super nervous for his big marathon this weekend (it's just 26 miles - seriously, toughen up a little bit dude).  I'm desperately trying to think of fun phrases to write on the signs I'm making him.  Any ideas?  I actually asked him what he wants me to write on it, because I'm feeling that uncreative (and yes, I totally just made up that word).  He suggested one of the signs read "Finish Strong."  Bor-ing.  Any ideas?  Someone else suggested Brits Do It Better, which I think is awesome. 
• Ian has taken tomorrow off for my big 2-7 and has the day planned.  I have no idea what he has in store, but I'm so excited to spend the day with him.
• Thanksgiving is one week away - and I can't wait to be with our family and friends.  I LOVE, love, love, Thanksgiving. 
• I cannot wait to spend the weekend in Philadelphia, and am even more excited to support Ian, and spend time with my brother and SIL who are going to be there as well.

Lots of fun times coming up - can't wait!

Letting go is necessary

I've been disappointed by lots of friends recently.  I am pretty good about remembering big events in their lives - and I am pretty good about sending cards when appropriate.  I remember birthdays.  I email.  I call.  I ask how their lives are going.  I try to get together to catch up.

But what happens when I make the effort, only to have it rejected, or at least not returned?  Do they think I'm too busy to talk? Do they not want to talk? If they think I'm too busy, it would help to at least try to call me, especially when I've reached out to them.  Recently, a couple friends have said it's been forever since we've seen eachother.  So I threw out some dates that we are free and have never heard any response.  Those dates that were free have already passed.  But I know these friends have made time for others.  So how do I not take it personally?  What's wrong with me?

I'm tired of being disappointed by the same friends repeatedly.  So I'm letting go.  I'm letting go of those friends, because when it comes down to it, I am a pretty good friend to them, and I deserve the same in return.  If they can't make the effort, neither will I.  So recently, I've stopped contacting these certain friends.  If they want me in their lives, they can return the effort.

I will devote time to my amazing friends who consistently show that I am important in their lives, and who are equally important to me.  They are kind, unique, and wonderful people who truly know the meaning of friendship.  To them, I am incredibly grateful.  And by letting go of those not-so-great friends, I have more time to devote to being that much of a better friend to the ones who matter.

While it may not be easy to let go of friends who have played major roles in my life, it is necessary.

Lacking Motivation

I had been doing so well with cooking for the past few months.  But, it hit me like a ton of bricks, that I'm out of motivation to cook.  I need a breather.  I'm out of the energy to cook every night like I had been doing.  So lately, I've been making something like pasta, and making multiple meals with it. Like this:

Start with orzo.  Then you can add what you want - meat, tuna, veggies, cheese, dressing, lettuce.  I can do it hot or cold.  It may not be that creative, but it is delicious.

I'm also out of motivation to do anymore school work, or blog, or anything other than working out and relaxing.  At least I haven't lost motivation for working out.  That, I am still doing.  And until I do get the motivation, I'm going to try to take the simple things and make them a little more interesting. 

Thoughts on Religion

Yep - I'm going there.  I want to talk to everyone about religion, or being spiritual, whatever yours may be, or the lack thereof for some people. Maybe if we were more comfortable talking about these things, we'd all understand eachother just a little better. We don't have to believe what others do, but it might be nice to understand why they believe it.

I grew up going to church every Sunday.  My mom is fairly religious (whatever that means is really a personal definition), so it was important that we grew up in a similar home.  I went to a private, Catholic school for middle and high school, and a Jesuit Catholic college.  With all of that, you can certainly say I was exposed to religion.
Then I met Ian.  He is someone who didn't grow up with any religion.  He isn't against religion, but isn't sure what he believes.  I couldn't understand it when we first met.  But we talk a lot about religion, and I understand now that not having grown up in a believing household would probably influence my beliefs as well.  And to be honest, with so many different opinions on higher power(s), different religions, different beliefs, I don't blame him for being confused.  I grew up in one religion my entire life, and even I sometimes don't even know.  I think also, certain things may happen in people's lives to make them turn to, or away from believing in anything bigger than them.  For me, I've had some terrible tragedies occur that have made me believe.  And I've also been stressed to no end, when suddenly something or someone comes into my life that changes everything, and it leaves me believing that it was meant to be, that there is reason to it. 

But here's where we are on the same page.  For me, the church was a place I could always turn to.  It reminds me on a daily basis that I am fortunate.  It reminds me to help others, be open-minded, and value the people around me.  It reminds me that family is the most important thing.  Going to church, I don't feel judged.  People can look however they do, with no judgment.  I've been on retreats, and met some of the most kind people I've met in my life.  And for me, I'm naturally an anxious person.  So my belief that there is a higher power, something greater than little measly me, that maybe I do not have control of everything, helps calm me.  It doesn't all rest on my shoulders.  My religion, has taught me incredible values.

Do I think you have to be a part of a formed religion to have these values? No. Absolutely not.  Do I think a weekly reminder at church encourages kids to be kinder, and teaches them important values, yes.  Does it work for every person? No.  Do I think it inspires kids and adults to think of others a little more often? Yes. 

For me, religion is what you make of it.  You can go to church everyday and still be a crappy person in my book.  It really is what you make of it.  If you use it to inspire you and remind you to think of others, then why not go for it?

I also know that people not into the whole God (or whatever you call your higher power) thing have fairly strong opinions about the situation.  Some may think that religious people judge.  But I think that depends on the person.  For me, it taught me to NOT judge, to give people the benefit of the doubt, to say I'm sorry, to forgive, to be understanding and compassionate.  They may think it's weird, or that religious people think they're better than others, more right than others.  Again, it depends on the person.  I can do the best I absolutely can in a situation, thinking it's the right thing to do, and be completely wrong.  So who the hell am I to judge someone else's decisions.  I can certainly think for myself, but thinking something isn't knowing it - it's purely a belief. 
My hope in discussing this is to get people to be more open-minded.  I have to commend my dear hubby on this.  He goes with me to church every single time, supported my wish to get married in the Catholic church, and is totally onboard with raising our children as Catholics.  He asks questions and tries to understand.  When something major is going on in our lives, and I turn to prayer or reflection to center myself, he will sometimes join me.  He may not believe all of it, but he at least supports me on it, and is interested in learning more.  And I couldn't ask from more form him.

Overall, for me, religion/being spiritual helps me regain balance in my life, and I can hardly think anyone would say that's a bad thing.

What are your thoughts on all of this? 

Errands, errands and more errands

Our day has been one of those days that you aren't at home - at all.  We've been gone all day running errands, going to church, grocery shopping, etc. and JUST got home.  Exhausted.  Hopefully will be able to write something slightly more interesting than this ramble.

Progress

I had a reassessment at the gym this morning (my first one since August, and my first one since being off my asthma medication for over 1 month now).  Down 3-4 lbs, and have lost 2 inches in my waist, and 1 inch in my thighs.  YAY!

While I could sit and dwell on the fact that that isn't THAT much considering I've been working my ass off since August, I'm choosing to take this and use it as motivation to keep pushing forward.  And just as it took time for me to gain weight (thanks to the asthma medicine), it's not going to go away overnight.

I'm looking for progress, not perfection.

Dilemma

I was recently asked by one of my close friends to be a bridesmaid in her wedding.  I am so honored, and thrilled to be a part of her big day!  Her wedding was to take place on a Friday in May.

Our other dear friend, who was a big part of Ian and I meeting, is getting married on the Saturday night (the night after my friend's wedding).  I thought this was perfect, and that we'd be able to attend both.

But my friend has moved her wedding to Saturday evening.  As in, now both weddings are the same day.  And my friend's is in NY, while our other close friend's is in Baltimore.  Now we're faced with a huge dilemma.  Do we split up, Ian go to the wedding here in Baltimore, and I go to my friend's wedding in NY?  That way, at least we both are a part of each of their wedding days.  I am bummed out.

I'm sad at the thought of missing either of their weddings.  And hearing stories from Ian, if we were to split up for the weekend, would make me even more bummed out.  Especially because many of our close friends will be at the Baltimore wedding.

I think my loyalty is to my friend because I am a bridesmaid for her.  But I hate having to make this decision!  Have you been in this situation before? What'd you decide?

Still Contemplating

Thanks for the suggestions yesterday!  I wish I knew people going to the shower so we could split a bigger present, but I don't know anybody.  So I'm still contemplating what to get her.  I'm going to go shopping tomorrow to see if I can find something special for the mom-to-be.  And I might get something for the baby too!  I'm thinking about getting her a pedicure/manicure gift card from a spa nearby.  This late in her pregnancy, her feet could probably use a good massage.

Now, I'm off to do work and go to the gym.  Happy Friday.  Although it is Friday the 13th - weird.

Shower for Mommy-to-Be

I've been invited to a shower for a mom-to-be.  She's already had a couple baby showers, so I think I'm supposed to get a present for the mom-to-be.  The invite mentioned some things she likes - Aveda, Bath and Body Works, and a few others.  But I don't really want to get something from any of the places they've suggested - because I think she'll have too many people buying from those places.

But I have no idea what to get her.  Help!  I haven't been through being pregnant, so I have no idea what she'd really want to do after she has the baby, or during these last couple months of being pregnant.  What do you think?  I know some of my readers are either expecting, or already have children, so YOU, I need your suggestions!  Oh, and if it can be budget friendly, that'd be even better!

Languages

Ian grew up in three different countries: England, France, and the U.S.  Then, he majored in French and Spanish, and studied abroad in Spain. 

I, on the other hand, grew up and stayed in the same state for all my schooling.  But I also studied abroad in Spain.

I often talk about how I want our kids to have a little piece of each of the cultures.  Ian is fluent in French, and we often talk about speaking to our kids in both French and Spanish (and obviously English).  When we start prepping to have kids, I'll be sure to buy plenty of French and Spanish books so that we can start practicing with them when they're just babies.

But how do we incorporate his English tradition?  They certainly won't have his accent, considering they'll grow up here, and especially because his accent is so faint.  I know we'll celebrate holidays in both the American and English ways.  And I want to be sure to visit England often, so they know where their family is from.

I figure that our kids will learn to be part English through Ian's language.  English language.  I'm somewhat used to his language now, but I remember the first year or two of dating, I'd burst out laughing when he'd come out with some funny word I'd never heard of.  And every once in awhile, he or his parents will surprise me with some word or phrase.  Here's a list of the words that demonstrate how different the English and American languages are:

• Garage is pronounced as "gairedge"
• And Bob's your uncle (is equivalent to, "and that's that")
• Rubbish
• Bloody _______ (insert whatever you want here, he often says he's bloody hungry)
• Gordon Bennett (holy crap)
• John Thomas (toilet)
• Wanker (he says this a lot while watching soccer games when one of the players makes a bad play. normally with "bloody" before it)
• Football (he refers to any games relating to the NFL as "American Football", and if he just says football he's referring to soccer)
• Oy (he says this when he's trying to get someone's attention, normally mine or Tessa's)
• Aluminum wrap is pronounced Al-u-mean-ium (like the end (ium) of immodium)
• Cellophane (saran wrap)
• Town shoes (men's dress shoes)
• Jumper (sweatshirt)
• Bollocks (this basically means bull shit - he says "that's a load of bollocks" a lot)

There are so many more that I'm forgetting.  I'll have to continue to add to this list as I hear more weird phrases.  Our kids are sure to have some really weird vocab.

Sick - Again

Geez, this fall has not been kind to my health.  First, I got a cold a couple months ago, then got strep throat 1 month ago, now I have a sinus infection.  Maybe the third time is the charm? As in, the 3rd time will be the last time?   It better be, I'm tired of being sick.

Good news is that at my doctor's visit today, even with the sinus infection, I was still able to receive the H1N1 vaccine (I'm in the last group of people receiving the vaccine- susceptible person because of the asthma).

In other health news, I have been off of my preventative asthma medicine for over 4 weeks now (I talked about going off of it here).  The initial exhaustion from being off of it (it has a mild stimulant in it) has somewhat subsided.  I still am feeling pretty tired, but I feel like it's a bit better.  But nothing has really changed with my weight gain.  I haven't gained anymore though, so that's a big positive.  But he's running a few more tests just be sure nothing more serious is wrong.  And then we'll wait and see if my weight comes down from being off the medicine.  I have high hopes!  We talked about food intolerances, and I'm considering going to a holistic doctor who would test for various food intolerances.  Ever heard of anyone doing this?

One of my besties had health problems for a lot of years.  Doctors ran test after test after test, (some of these tests were uncomfortable and/or invasive), but were never able to determine what the problem was.  Then, she went to a natural/holistic doctor and they finally determined that she couldn't process corn.  This meant anything with corn (corn starch, corn syrup, corn meal, etc.) wasn't processing correctly.  She has since cut it out of her diet, and voila, her health problems are basically gone.  I would totally go to her doctor, except she lives in New York and you have to go a few times to be monitored as they're figuring out what's wrong and adjusting things accordinly.  I was thinking it might be worth me visiting this doctor next time I'm visiting my friend - we'll see! 

Right Call

I completely agree with the school's decision to permanently suspend this female soccer player.  Her soccer career is officially over after this horrible display of sportsmanship.  Take a look!

Braised Short Ribs

While we watched/listened to football yesterday, I made these braised short ribs, with a few changes.  They took 3+ hours to cook, and probably another 1/2 hour to throw everything together and finish it up.  So it's definitely to be made on a day when you have lots of time (I imagine these might work well in a slow cooker - but don't quote me on it).

The things I did differently: I didn't use lemon grass, I cut the hoisin sauce to 1/8 cup, and added 1/8 cup of teriyaki, and instead of 4 cups of water, I used 3 cups of water and 1 cup of red wine (I used cab sauv, but I suppose any would work beautifully).

The meat - fell apart with the touch of the fork.  It was incredibly tender, had fantastic flavor, and the sauce was tangy and rich.  Oh, and while it's cooking, the aroma fills your house, making you excited and anxious for it to be done.

Sunday Funday

We start out going to church, then get our weekly grocery shopping done, then come home and fix a big breakfast together.  Then we promptly head upstairs, put our pj's on (and I put my glasses on instead of wearing contacts),throw on our slippers and head back downstairs to lay on the couch with Tessa.  We spend the rest of the day watching football, talking, and snuggling with a blanket.  Somewhere in between games, I normally throw something on the stove or oven that requires very little effort.  Today, I'll throw a bunch of ingredients in a pan and stick it in the oven so we can have braised short ribs for dinner.  Amazing smells from the food slowly cooking reach us on the couch, making us love Sundays that much more.

What a perfect day.

Broke

I almost forgot to post today!

We are officially broke.  Big Black finally got fixed yesterday.  After a new battery, serpentine belt, a tune up and $600 later, it's fixed.  Oh right, except that I found out that my tires were unsafe to be driving on.  So now, $800 more spent on tires today (which I realize is a shit ton of money for tires - I have an SUV so the tires are expenssssive), it looks like we'll be scraping by for the next few months.  Ugh.

We ran a crap ton of errands today, and are heading out tonight for a law school friend's birthday.  Excited to sit around tomorrow and watch some football!

Posts in Draft

I wrote a post recently, and I'm debating whether to post it.  Ever had that happen? 

You see, it's normally a not-talked-about topic, because it's personal and can cause lots of heated discussions.  Before I post it (if I post it), I want to make sure it's just right, so that nobody is offended and it still gets across my point.  I was hoping that I'd be able to post it today, but I still haven't made up my mind on it. 

So it's sitting there, as a draft.  I guess you'll see over the weekend or next week whether it makes it up there. 

Do you have many posts that are sitting in drafts?  I only have a few in addition to this one.  They're in drafts for a few reasons: 1. I was never able to finish the post.  2. I had to take down a previously posted post because it caused some issues with my family.  3.  It's no longer relevant.


Now, I'm off to do work, go to the gym, and run some errands.  Somewhere in there, I need to decide and edit the questionable post.  Happy Friday!

Opposite Schedules

In the beginning of the hubby's marathon training, it was summer time, I wasn't in school, and was working full time.  His training really didn't impact our lives very much.  But recently, I've been not-so-secretly being grateful that his marathon training is almost over.  Because, quite honestly, it has taken over our lives.

Friday nights are pretty much dead for us because he has his long runs on Saturday mornings.  And Saturdays are pretty much dead for us because he runs for most of the morning and then in the afternoon he does not want to go do things.  This also leads to him being exhausted early on, which means we really don't go out with friends for very long on Saturday nights.

And I have been very supportive (at least I think I have).  Every Saturday run, I make sure to check on him at least once while he's out running, and Tessa and I even meet him (even in the rain) for the last portion of his run.  And I encourage him to cross train on Sundays even when he doesn't feel like it, because I want him to be healthy and follow his training.

But as his training has increased, I've started back to school and we have ended up with totally different schedules.  I don't have classes until late in the day, and some days I don't make it home until after 9.  He's up and out running by 6 or 6:30 most mornings. I'm sound asleep until slightly before he leaves for work, or am getting up as he leaves for work (anywhere between 7:45 and 8:30).  And he's ready for bed at like 9 or 10, while I'm up past 12 most nights. 

This leads me to really be ready for him to be finished.  I never see him, and when I do, he's freaking exhausted from all the running (understandably).  And it makes me CRANKY.  I don't know why, but I hate going to sleep at different times.  Hate. it.  I don't want this to sound like I'm being selfish and wish he wasn't doing this.  Because that's not it all.  I am incredibly proud that he has this huge goal and he is pushing through to accomplish it.  But, I miss my hubby.

So I'm happy to report that in just over 2 weeks, we'll be in Philadelphia cheering him on, and celebrating.  Celebrating because of the huge accomplishment, and celebrating because now this huge goal is off his plate, and our lives can return to normal.  Whatever "normal" is!

Sky Diving

After my last two posts being rants, I think it's time to lighten things up a little bit.

I've always wanted to skydive.  I've looked into it a little bit here and there.  But have never found anyone to do it with (Ian has absolutely no desire).  And I want to talk with someone who has skydived before.  Have any of you done this?

There's something so freeing and liberating about it.  I read that it feels like you're flying, not that it feels like you're falling.  This is a relief to me (assuming it's true).  I read one skydiving website and through them you freefall for about 1 minute.  I keep debating whether that 1 minute feels like seconds or a lifetime.  Then, you descent for about 10-15 minutes, and see some of the most beautiful scenery ever.  This is the part I imagine will freak me out more than the freefalling because you actually have time to think. 

I know I will be peeing my pants beforehand, but I think once I'm in the air it'll all be worth it.  But there's still a part of me that's scared.  So I'm trying to find someone who wants to do it, so that we can be scared together. 

This is definitely something I want to do before we have babies.  So I've got some time to decide where and when to do it.  I really wish Ian was interested - I think it would be incredible for both of us to experience it.  Honey, want to rethink that whole you're not into jumping out of a plane at 11,000 feet idea?  Anyone up for the challenge?

The night from hell

I really hate that yesterday's post seemed like a rant.  And I hate even more that today's post most certainly will be a rant.

I am so fed up with my car.  We truly have a love-hate relationship.  I really love my car.  It's a 2000 and has almost 100,000 miles on it.  Don't judge - but I have a knickname for my car AND call it a her/she.  The knickname is Big Black.  It sounds horrible, but it's really because my car is the color black, and she's big, and also because I love Big from Rob and Big on MTV.  They don't make my car anymore, so I love her that much more. 

But nights like last night really make me hate her.  Last night, I went to the gym to do cardio and pilates.  I parallel parked in about the exact same spot where the last mishap occurred.  I came out from the gym and put my key in the ignition and my car coughed but never turned over.  Poop.  I try a couple more times, with no luck.

I call Ian and sit on the curb waiting for him to come and help me.  The hood to my car was up and I had the jumper cables out and ready to go for when he got there.  Out of over 50 people who passed by, drove by (and asked if I was leaving so they could have my spot), only one couple stopped and asked if I needed a phone or help.  And when I thanked them and said it was my battery and that my hubby was on his way, they apologized for not having their car there, otherwise they would've just helped jump start it with me.  I hope good karma comes back around to those two good people.  They even asked if I wanted them to wait with me.  I thanked them but knew I was alright to wait by myself.

Ian got there and sure enough, the car still wouldn't start even with the jumper cables.  Double poop.  I quickly get on the phone with AAA and arrange for a tow truck to come and get her.

We had to follow the tow truck to where we wanted her dropped off - which means we weren't home until 10:30.  And I was HUNGRY.

So yeah.  That was my night.  Along with officially losing this week in my fantasy league.  Triple poop.  Now, I'm just waiting to hear from the hubby as to what's wrong with Big Black.

Damper on my Halloween

Our weekend consisted of carving pumpkins on Friday, dealing with annoying kids on Saturday night and trying to relax yesterday.


I normally like halloween.  But not in the same way other people like halloween.  Most people love dressing up and partying it up.  I like halloween to see all the other people dress up. I've never been big into dressing up for halloween, which is kind of surprising because the thought of getting to wear a costume and do fun makeup sounds appealing.  Then, add in that I married someone who never grew up with halloween, and it means we're pretty much party poopers for the event.  The thought of having to come up with a costume, and then forking over money for any part of it kind of kills it for me.

So instead of dressing up, I like decorating and preparing for the occasion.  Friday night we carved our pumpkins.  Or, rather, Ian carved them because I proved to be terrible at it without the carving kit I've always used.  Ian, who had never carved a pumpkin before, was incredibly grossed out by the whole process.  He thought it smelled like poo and hated having to clean out the insides of it.  I thought it smelled like...pumpkin.  But oh well ha. 

Ian's pumpkin:

Our pumpkins together (mine is a lion):

And look - the pumpkins even have a guard dog!

Saturday, while Ian ran his 20 miles, I went to the gym for a long cardio session.  Afterwards, we went to our fave lunch spot to get cold cuts for the week and some sandwiches.  We both took a short nap after lunch and the prepared for halloween night.

Last year, being in our current house for the first time, we had trick-or-treaters.  I was thrilled!  We decided to get takeout while I sit on the front steps and hand out candy.  And I absolutely love it.  I did the exact same thing this year, except the weather wasn't quite as cooperative.

However, this year we had a few very different trick-or-treaters.  One of the first big groups of trick-or-treaters to come by had about 8 children in it, all different ages.  It looked like 2 moms and a dad were with them.  They came running up the steps to our house (this was before I had gone outside to sit on the steps) and shouted trick-or-treat.  I bent down to grab the candy from the house and as I'm standing back up the eldest trick-or-treater, probably a 12 year old boy, demanded that each child is supposed to get 2 candies.  I was kind of taken back.  And he also was one of my pet-peeves - he wasn't even wearing a freakin costume.  If you're going trick-or-treating and want candy, you better dress up.  So I politely said that I appreciated his suggestion, but that the people giving out the free candy get to decide how much they want to give.

When one of the mothers came with the younger kids, I mentioned that the kids probably shouldn't demand how much candy they get.  She just said oh okay.

5 minutes later, I'm setting up our carved pumpkins on our front window sill and the same group of kids come running up to the window (which was open), along with the adults with them.  The mother shouts "trick-or-treat.  you got candy in there?."  UMMM REALLY?!  I shouted back that yes I do, but they have already been to our house.  She didn't respond to me, but instructed her kids to go to the next house.

Wow.  It's people like that who make me not want to hand out candy.  And what is with the parents not instructing their kids to say thank you?  I understand kids can sometimes forget or be shy or distracted, but parents who don't correct their kids are ridiculous.  And, please, tell your kids to freaking say something when I answer the door.  It's annoying when I answer the door and just see kids with their bags open.

The second annoying thing of the night - older trick-or-treaters coming at 9:45pm.  Um really - I'm not asleep by then but I'd prefer not to have people knocking at my door at 9:45pm and scaring the daylights out of me, and making Tessa bark like a maniac.

Anyways - our halloween was not as fun as last year.  Maybe next year we will have to join in halloween festivities away from our house, all to avoid the few annoying kids.

And I swear I should not be allowed to play in any fantasy sports league.  Ian is hating that I have a fantasy football team.  It's all fun and games until I become a cranky bitch and am yelling because my fantasy team is having a crappy day.  It looks like my 6-1 record will soon become a 6-2 record - and on a week I felt good about my lineup.  Well, I guess there are worse things in life.

Day 1

*Today is my first day participating in NaBloPoMo!  I haven't heard if any of my readers are participating, but I'll be watching your blogs to find out over the next few days.  I can't promise that my posts will be quite as lengthy, but I will do my best!

I slept amazingly sound last night.  It felt awesome.  We woke up at 9:30 and I hurried to see what time masses were around the corner - 11:00.  Perfect.  Then I look down at the clock on my computer and realize it's only 8:30.  We forgot to set our clocks back.  I hate when that happens.

Now, we'll have plenty of time to eat some breakfast and then go to mass, before I set up camp on the couch to watch Sunday Football.  This is a HUGE game today for me in my fantasy football league.  I'm first in my division and am playing against the #1 team in the other division, someone who normally kills people by a lot of points.  Wish me luck!

Up tomorrow, a weekend recap with pictures of our awesome pumpkins and some trick-or-treater stories.