A fabulous weekend

We had a fabulous weekend.  Friday started with me picking up my bestest from the airport.  She flew into Baltimore for our college reunion.  We had a yummy lunch at Helen's Garden and then we hung out before I took her to the hotel (with me being so pregnant, Ian and I opted out of going to most of the events so it made sense for her to stay with people who were going to all the events).

Then, Ian and I kicked off the weekend with some takeout healthy food on Friday night.  We had a gift card for a nearby restaurant so we decided to use it and figured we could get more bang for our buck by getting takeout.

Saturday we took the day to completely reorganize our basement.  It was looking like a tornado had come through it.  I'm currently on a mission to find a particular item that I KNOW is in our house, and I desperately need it to complete one of the projects I have for baby girl's room.  Without the item, the entire project falls through, and it's not an item that can be replaced.  So annoying!  I'm praying that it shows up somewhere so I can finish this project.  But me searching for it means that I empty boxes and take stuff out and then just leave it there because I'm too tired to put it all back.  So Ian spent a lot of Saturday undoing the disaster I had created.

We purged a lot of boxes and papers and random things we just can't keep in our house anymore.  It felt good! 

Then, Saturday night we had my college reunion dinner and dance.  Let me tell you, not being able to drink at an event that is sure to have some awkward moments was tough.  I was able to catch up with some of my college friends and all in all, it was a good time!  My belly got lots of love from all of the girls, and my boobs were a reoccurring topic throughout the night.  Apparently, I'm not the only one to notice that they have gotten out of control huge.  Just take a look at the pictures below - they take up half the picture!

I was a trooper and stayed until it ended at midnight.  We got home and I ate a snack and we were in bed by 1:15ish.  That is a super late night for me!  But I figured that I only have a few more weeks of freedom, so I should take advantage of being spontaneous and staying out late while I can :) 

Sunday we got up pretty early and ate a quick breakfast before we headed out to spend the day with more friends.  We actually made separate, back to back plans with 3 different sets of friends.  We spent a lot of time in the car which made me realize that I can't do car rides as comfortably anymore, or at least longer car rides.  But all in all, it was a fabulous day catching up with people we don't get to see very often.  We were out from about 10am until 5:30ish.

A great weekend with lots of friends and spontaneity!  We ended the weekend curled up with both Ian and my hands on my belly, feeling baby girl move like a maniac.  Clearly, she wanted the fun weekend to continue!

Just a few pictures from the reunion:

Pregnancy Hormones

First, thank you all so much for your comments and thoughts on my post about our tentative birthing plan.  Someone suggested seeing the movie, The Business of Being Born, and I had forgotten to mention that movie in my post yesterday.  We actually borrowed it from a friend this past week and just need to find the time to watch it.  I will be sure to keep you all informed as we hash out our plan more specifically.  I appreciate all of your comments and suggestions and opinions - it really means a lot!

I hesitated in writing the following post because it's Friday, and, well who wants to read a Debbie Downer post on a Friday?  But then I thought getting it out in writing might be a little therapeutic for me so I went ahead and wrote.  Here's what's been going on recently.  Oh and if you don't feel like reading a bummer post on a Friday, feel free to skip this one and come back Monday for a (hopefully) more upbeat post!

I've been noticing that I'm a bit more sensitive than normal.  Someone may say something that I take a little too harshly, or take it personally.  This led to me bursting into tears yesterday, calling Ian at work, and continuing to cry for another 1/2 hour in the parking lot of the grocery store until I had calmed down enough to go in to get some food.

I've been feeling overwhelmed, alone and sad the past few days.  I think it is a combination of things that are causing me to feel kind of weepy.  Law school is kicking my butt this semester.  Also, being in an environment where very few people are married, and even fewer are starting families is further causing me some stress because I'm just at a totally different stage in life than a lot of the people there. 

Many people have trouble relating to me now that I'm pregnant and this doesn't just apply to my law school friends.  I don't want this read that my friends aren't excited for me - I certainly felt their excitement when I told them we were expecting.  But I think being the first of your friends to go through this journey means that most of my friends don't understand it and haven't had a lot of experience in how to be a supportive friend during that time.  Three friends in particular, have been asbolutely spectacular, even though all three of them are at very different stages in their lives.  They call often and want to hear about all of my pregnancy stories.  I am so, so lucky to have them in my life, and to be a part of theirs.  I have also been surprised by the unexpected support I've received from friends - for example, two of my bachelor guy friends call and ask all these questions about the baby, how we're doing, and other pregnancy related questions. And a couple who have their first baby, who we don't see often, have checked in often to see how we're doing.  That surprising kindness is so refreshing.

But over the past week or so, I've realized that I'm disappointed by more than few friends.  To announce the news to the majority of our friends, we sent out an email with pictures of the sonogram, and a picture of Ian and I in "Mommy 2010" and "Daddy 2010" t-shirts on.  We've heard from almost everyone at some point since then.  But some people, who I consider pretty good friends, haven't even picked up the phone or emailed me.  I realize that everyone is busy with their own lives, but I can guarantee that when one of my good friends emails me with exciting news about a big move, getting engaged, a job promotion, or announcing their pregnancy, I pick up the phone to call and congratulate them and want to hear how everything is.  The fact that I haven't had the same care in return makes me incredibly sad.  Is it that they are just so in their own worlds that they don't notice?  Is is that they don't care?  Is it that I value their friendship more than they value mine?  Or can it really be that they just don't know how to relate?

Regardless of the answer, it makes me incredibly sad.  I certainly don't expect that my friends thoughts should revolve around me.  But we announced the news over a month ago and I would've expected some type of response from every single one of them (other than a simple congrats in a response email).  What would I be doing if the situation was reversed - checking in with my friend, seeing how things are going, because holy crap, expecting your first child is a momentous occasion that is exciting and scary all in one.  I'd want to be there for them during that point in their lives.

I guess with all other big events, you kind of figure out who your close friends are. This is another occasion that is proving to be a rude awakening.  I think it's further exacerbated by some family issues we're having that it's making me feel like our support system is smaller and smaller.  

I don't know how these so-called friendships will work out.  I'm taking some time to sit back and reevaluate some people in my life.  But I do know one thing:  I am so incredibly grateful for the man who is next to me, holding my hand through it all.  He is so supportive, understanding, and caring.  He knew when I was sobbing my eyes out yesterday, that it likely was a result of the pregnancy hormones, but he also knew not to say that to me.  He just waited patiently, offered support, told me how much he loves me, and let the sadness pass.  We bought a plaque recently for our bedroom that reads, "When I count my blessings, I count you twice."  I do when it comes to Ian - I count him over and over again.

Sorry to be a Debbie Downer on Friday!  Actually, to try to help me through this sad phase, I am heading out now to get a pregnancy massage.  I'm hoping it will help melt away some of my sadness and help me sleep well tonight.  We have a busy weekend and I'll be sure to let you know how our cesarean section prevention class is on Sunday. 

Two Sided

Do you have certain friends, who, you know when you tell them exciting news, will be received with immediate excitement, but that secretly behind that excitement, you know the person isn't 100% happy for you? 

I hate that feeling.  I remember when I got engaged, that a couple of my friends could've been slightly more excited, and I knew at the time that they were less than 100% happy for me.  Like a member of my family who I simply do not get along with - she was certainly less than thrilled to hear I was happy.

And I don't expect my friends to agree with every decision I make in my life.  I certainly don't with every decision they make.  I appreciate complete honesty in my friendships.  Some of the harshest comments I've received from friends have strengthened my relationship with them.

But I guess I'm talking about decisions that I've already made, that are completely personal which truly don't require their opinions (unless I've asked of course!).  Like job decisions, where Ian and I end up after I graduate, what I do after I finish school, when Ian and I decide to have a family.  Those big life decisions, I expect complete happiness on their part.

Is it jealousy? Hate? Unhappiness with their own lives? Dislike for me?  I'm really not sure. But I encourage people to be real, to stop pretending, and let their guards down.

Do I think every decision my friends make is "right"?  No.  But what is right for me is most likely not right for them, so who the hell am I to judge.  I know that if a friend decides something big in her/his life that I don't agree with, but that the decision has already been made and she/he hasn't asked my opinion, and he/she is happy, I'll swallow my opinion and be happy, happy for them, thrilled for them.  Because that's exactly what I'd expect from them.

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.

Another One Bites the Dust

Thanks to Annie for her suggestions in yesterday's post!  I think I may have to have more guest bloggers post after their weddings or other life-changing events.

Onto today's post.  I remember sitting around at my mom's house with my high school girlfriends talking about who we thought would get married first and last out of our group.  This conversation probably took place 5-6 years ago.  It was guessed that I would be last - I don't think this was in a mean way, but more in a, I'm prone to be overly cautious way.

It's interesting how things work out in reality.  I was #2 to get married out of the 6 of us.  And now, 3 of us are married.  2 of the others are now engaged.

It makes me wonder - when did we all grow up?  Most of my law school friends are not married or engaged.  Maybe because most of my law school friends waited a few years to go to law school after college.  Or maybe just a coincidence.  I'm not sure. 

And I can hardly believe that the next big stage for most of us is having babies.  Amazing how things change in 5-6 years.  6 years ago, I was in a relationship that should've been over the first time we broke up (there were about 3 breakups I think in the 5 years I was with the guy).  At this exact time 6 years ago, I was studying abroad in Spain (take me back pleasssee), drinking way too much, traveling all over the place and making some amazing friends (two of my bridesmaids!).  It almost seems like a lifetime ago.  But in other respects, I feel like I was just there.

With 5 weddings on our schedule next year already, I'm super excited to watch as 5 dear friends take the next big step in their lives.  And if things have changed this much in the past 6 years, I can hardly imagine where we'll all be 6 years from now.  But I'm excited to see.

Motivation

This is a long ass post.

I love fall weekends.  The past couple weeks, I've been enjoying having the AC off, opening the windows, and letting the breeze come through our house.  I pulled out our fall smelling candles and lit them on Sunday - with scents like cranberry cinnamon and pumpkin spice.

This fall weekend was also full of inspiring moments and laughs with family.  Friday night, I made a big carb dinner for Ian and we went to sleep early to prepare for Ian's half marathon on Saturday morning.  He has run 13 miles multiple times during his training, since his ultimate goal is to run the Philly marathon on November 22nd (God willing - so long as he stays healthy).  But this time was different for him - it was his first official race.  He was extremely nervous in the morning before we left and once we got there.  The whole city of Baltimore essentially shuts down for this event, so we parked in Little Italy, knowing we'd be walking quite a bit.

Rain was called for, so I packed a backpack with a rain coat and the day's essentials: a book to read while I camped out waiting for him at the finish line, snacks and water, advil in case he got a headache, and map of the course.  We got there early and immediately felt the energy of the event.  With over 20,000 runners expected and even more spectators, the band playing - Ian became excited and I was inspired.

I took some pictures, then after Ian and Jeremy lined up, I headed off to the finish line area and set up shop for the next couple hours.  It started raining, but I was content with my rain coat as I watched the frontrunners of the full marathon come in to finish the race.  Everyone - almost all of them strangers to the runners - cheered wildly for the strength and motivation each of these people clearly possess. While I waited, I also witnessed a fight between a street vendor and police.  He was determined to make money next to the finish line, but did not have a license to do so at the race.  He pushed and shoved and everyone around him stared.  It was some action that made the wait a little less boring.

Ian's parents finally made it downtown and stood with me.  Finally, it was about time for us to start looking for Ian.  Shortly after Jeremy ran by, I saw Ian in a big group of people coming and I was overwhelmed with excitement for him.  I took a picture and then cheered for him loudly.  I was worried he wouldn't see us since there are so many people, but luckily he heard us.  He looked comfortable still after 13 miles.

He described the experience as inspirational and has motivated him even more for the Philly marathon.  He also said it was quite emotional coming towards the finish line and seeing us cheer for him. 

Afterwards, we went to have a big lunch with Ian's parents and my mom at The Corner Stable.  A-mazing ribs.  Seriously.  We laughed hysterically over poop talk (seriously, we cannot make it through a visit with Ian's family without talking about poop or farts).

After lunch, we went and got a new radio system put into my car since my old one stopped working the past couple weeks.  We also stopped by Ian's parents and picked up his birthday present from them, and discussed our upcoming trip to England to figure out the details.  Of course the conversation once again turned to poop/fart talk.

Sunday, we spent the day watching football, relaxing and cleaning up the house.  It was a weekend filled with

fall fun and laughs about poop.  It was a much needed weekend.

Why, Hello There

Blog world? Are you there? Well, life in clinic has kind of kept me quite busy and I just haven't had time to say hola!

So here's a quick update. I got my case assignments yesterday and am very happy with the selection of my clients. I am dealing with some business/tax related matters, several family/health related matters, and some criminal matters. Overall, I'm getting a fantastic overview of several areas that are of my interest.

Our weekend was filled with fun times. Friday, Kim and I went to a Zumba class which was super fun. It's essentially a latin/dirty dancing class at my gym. The instructor could probably scratch her butt and make it look beautiful. And even having danced my whole life, I felt very uncoordinated and spazzy. But it was a great workout that had me sweating bullets (not that it's that hard to do that - I have a sweating problem). After the class, the four of us headed out to dinner at The Wine Market. Ian and I had been wanting to check it out and were very pleased overall. The food was great, and the sangria wasn't so bad either!

Sunday we played golf with Stacy and Jon which always makes me happy. There was a lot of sun, cussing and beer - perfect morning for us! Hopefully we can do this more often this summer with those two!

And the highlight of our weekend - we finalized our wedding anniversary plans! I think I'm going to keep it a secret until after the fact. But I can say, I am SO FREAKING EXCITED!

I Didn't Have Time

This weekend felt truly amazing. I had time to surprise Ian with a romantic dinner on Friday - I pulled out the candles, made brownies from scratch, and made braised shortribs (not using a recipe!!) for dinner. I even did the dishes! Ah, the things that bring me joy now that I have time on my hands.

Saturday was jam-packed but we had a blast. We started off by losing our last kickball game then went to a bbq with those folks. Then, we headed to a law school bbq and ate some more there. Then, the 1st bbq was still going on so we headed back there for some more fun and games. After all of that, we had to quickly change and get ready to go out with both families to celebrate with them at The Brewers Art. We finally made it home at 11:30 and were asleep before we could even say good-night to eachother.

Then we spent mother's day with both moms - brunch then games at our house afterwards.

So I spent the weekend doing a lot of fun things! I know awhile back I let you in on my little anxiety issues. I was surprised throughout my first year of law school that I didn't have a whole lot of anxiety issues - I wasn't short of breath or feeling out of control. Since being finished as of last Tuesday, my anxiety has come up full force. I am somewhat confused by it, as it hits me about midday and for no apparent reason, especially considering that I do not feel particularly stressed about anything! But I think it comes down to the fact that during school, I simply did not have the time for my body to be stressed, or to even accept that I might be facing anxiety. So now that I have the time, I feel like my body is bringing up all of that anxiety that had been bottled up inside of me for the year. So I guess it's just giving me even more of an excuse to enjoy my days - I have to continue to do relaxing things to help, like workout, take walks, take baths, read, watch movies, etc. And all in all, that ain't so bad!

After brunch and games with our moms, Ian and I took Tessa for a long walk at a park nearby. It was absolutely beautiful and I was able to snag this photo before Tessa began venturing into the water!

1/3 DONE!!

And by 1/3, I mean I am finished my first year of law school (of the 3 total). I am SO freaking relieved and feel like a weight has been lifted off of my shoulders. This has been in some respects the longest and in other respects the shortest 9 months of my life. I am so grateful to have had this experience - even the hellish stressful times. It has made me stronger, more aware of myself and how strong my relationship is with my husband, and hopefully made me wiser. I feel a huge sense of pride at having come this far.

To my friends and family - I am eternally grateful for their patience, love, and support. I escaped from people's lives for days, weeks, sometimes even months at a time without talking to some of my closest friends, but not once did I hear anything but understanding from them. People who I never imagined would be supportive surprised me with how much they encouraged me.

People say they can't imagine being married while going through law school - but I can say that I don't think I could've made it without Ian. He was patient with me when I deserved it the least. He cared for me when I was being selfish. And he occasionally put me in my place that brought me back to reality.

So this week of celebration (yes, I'm that excited to make it a week long thing - maybe even longer), I will be celebrating what I've accomplished and remembering that I couldn't have done it without my amazing hubby, family, and friends.

Happy 2009!

We had a fantastic Christmas that we hosted this year! My mom and Ian's parents joined us while my brother and his fiance stayed in NY for their Christmas. To start, we had beet salad with goat cheese and walnuts (minus the walnut for me), then continued with a whole roast of beef tenderloin, roasted potatoes, brussel sprouts, green beans, English stuffing, and bernaisse sauce on the side. To finish, we had a delicious peanut butter chocolate pie and Christmas (English) pudding. We drank lots of mimosas and wine and talked and laughed lots. It was quite lovely.



What was supposed to be my fabulous break from school has turned into something a little less than fabulous. Last Friday, I woke up with lots of pain in my back. By night time, I was very uncomfortable and started with major nausea. To Patient First we went where they determined I have another kidney infection and now a kidney stone. Now, I'm feeling better, not 100% but better. But it did require us to change our trip plans. We had planned on going on a big road trip to the New England area to visit my cousins and great aunt, then to Rochester to visit Lauren, then onto Hoboken to visit my brother and meet his fiance's family. We canceled the first leg of the trip and headed to Rochester once the kidney infection seemed to clear up a bit. We had a lovely time there and spent lots of time indoors after 14 inches of snow falling there on our first night. I then woke up with a cold that I seem to be getting over now. But all in all, Rochester was fantastic! Then we were off to Hoboken to visit my brother for a night. We met his fiance's family and it was great to see them all together.

We're glad to be home and have our pup back! Tomorrow, I head to a kidney specialist to figure out what is going on. This is about my 4th or 5th kidney infection in 2 years. They now suspect that I may have something wrong with the adrenal gland which attaches to the kidney. It controls many processes, including potassium, carb and sodium intake. This could also be why I have gained a whopping 17 pounds over the past several months for no apparent reason. Even with working out a few times per week and eating normally, I can't seem to stop gaining. Hoping tomorrow will give me some answers!

I have lots more to recap...I'll save more for my next post. In the meantime, I'm enjoying a very lazy Monday at home with Tessa!

2 New Laptops - What??

I hate Mondays! I hate that with the amount of studying I do on weekends, the weekend just flies right by.

Friday night we had a small get together at our house for the first time. Even though it was small, we didn't manage to get to bed until close to 2 with people staying to hang out and drink. It was a blast! I need to upload the photos from that night. It was nice to have a few law school people blend in with my non-law school friends. It always amazes me how well everyone seems to get along in those types of situations.

Saturday we slept in and sorted out the laptop situation. Currently, I am using Ian's old laptop for school. The school offers a laptop program and I was hoping to buy one through them when their newer model arrives. Well, this lovely computer decided to poop out on me last week, not completely, but as in I have to hold the cord at precisely the correct angle for it to work. I know what you're thinking - we tried a new power cord as well - same issue. So to Best Buy we went on Saturday to get this baby fixed. Well, they determined that the cord thingie is attached to the mother board and when the cord thingie comes off the mother board and becomes loose, you have to replace the entire mother board. Doh! We went home and thought about our options and decided to order a new school laptop for me through the laptop program, and yesterday Ian went and replaced our home laptop. A whole lot of hassle (and money spent) later, I am now typing on our lovely new home computer while my school computer should be here in about 2 weeks. Yay!

And it's a fantastic thing that it pooped out on me last week so that I had time to get a new one, because, I have my first law school paper due on Friday! On that note...I will be quite busy this week trying to do that. Eek! Wish me luck:)

Oh and I managed to fit in another 90-minute hot yoga class yesterday. I'm a little sore, but I think the soreness will subside much more quickly than last time. However, I still sweated just as much - I'm hoping maybe I will stop sweating like a hot pig eventually in these classes!

Hope you all had a wonderful weekend. PS - How beautiful has this weather been!!

Friends

I'm pretty sure the majority of people have had their share of friends over the years. It seems like it's fairly normal that friends come in and out of your life, sometimes for a chapter, a few, or possibly if you're lucky, they've been there for your entire book called life. Friends sometimes are in your life because of mutual interests or fall out of your life just because you went separate ways, had a falling out, or possibly just lost touch.

I recently had a situation that presented itself that made me wonder - what are the cause of all of these changes in friends, and if you do fall out of each other's lives, what does that mean. Was it not a true friendship to begin with? Or was it just not strong enough? Or was it something to do with him/her, both of you, or you? And it sometimes leaves me wondering, why was it so easy for them to walk away from me?

When friends go out of my life, I sometimes take it as if I've just broken up. It sometimes produces that same type of pain. Was it me? Was it them? Was it mutual?

At least for me, I think it depends on what people value in friendships. People have different definitions of who friends should be and how they should act. For me, I value a friend who when I ask for their opinion, they'll give it to me straight. I want someone by my side who will call me out when I'm being mean, rude, or terrific. I'm okay with disagreeing with friends. I'm okay with tough love. But when I ask a friend to go easy, they know that I need them to lean on and respond accordingly. It's all about communication for me. I have some friends who I can go months without talking to, but still consider one of my best. That's a true friendship to me. I want a friend to say be able to disapprove of something I've done, or disagree with an opinion of mine, but still love me all at the same time. Same goes for my feelings towards my friends - sometimes they drive me bananas, but it's a true friendship if they are driving me bananas but I still love their craziness all in one.

I also think friends have different purposes in our lives I think. I had a horrible sophomore year of college in terms of roommates (this is a whole story that is blogworthy - but that's for another day). I befriended a couple of people who I no longer keep in touch with. But I will always think of them fondly because they took me under their wings in a way, and for that I am eternally greatful. They helped me out of a situation that I thought there was no light at the end of the tunnel.

One of my close friends is facing something very difficult in her life. Something that I cannot imagine having to face at just 23 years old. Her strength, love, and kindness even while she is battling something really put things in perspective for me. It made me realize, that no matter who comes in or out of our lives, it's those few friends who are with you no matter what, whether they're in my life for just a chapter, or from the beginning, I cherish you. To those of you who realize how crazy I am, how terrible I am with returning phone calls, how particular I am, and you still love me, well that's just amazing.

Pictures Post!

We really enjoyed our 3 day weekend!

We had a fabulous dinner with Alina on Thursday. Alina - I hope I get to meet Andrew at our wedding!

Friday

I had a half day so used it to my advantage - dropped of our final payment for the ceremony and musicians, went to the bank then went browsing for Ian's wedding present. We had dinner with Julie and her hubby around the corner and then finished watching Schindler's List - which by the way, is a sad but very good movie.

Saturday

Errands, errands and more errands. As one of the errands - Ian dropped our rings off to be engraved. They'll be ready for pick-up in 1 week!

Sunday

Marked Sunday as my no wedding, errands or chores day. I made a home on our couch and spent much of the day there - including taking two naps. We watched Charlotte's Web (the new one) and it was quite cute. Loved it. Makes me somewhat excited for all of our wedding craziness to be over to have more lay around the house days.

Monday

Cleaning, cleaning and did I mention - cleaning? I also cleaned out lots of bags of clothes to give away. I figure I'll get a head start on clearing stuff out so when it comes time to moving (if we're moving), we will be much more organized. We also ordered supplies for the OOT bags.

Here are some pictures from Chris and Chrissy's wedding from last weekend:

C&C saying their I-Dos:

Ian and Chris busting some moves:

Me sneaking up on James (Ian's best man):

Was there any alcohol involved - maybe - just a tad.

In Need of a Long Weekend

This is going to be a super short post - I have to review a very long document (1000 pages - eek).

We picked up the card box and it will work perfectly. Done! Also while at the mall, we swung by Macy's and picked up Ian's tie for the wedding, and one last gift for his best man. Done!

I have a half day tomorrow and then a 3 day weekend and I plan on sleeping A LOT!

I also got asked a question by a fellow bride-to-be who is also a date twin! Yes I am starting to stress a bit about one thing out of my control - the weather! Otherwise, I'm trying to forget about the other things! Thanks for reading!



Tonight, I am having dinner with my friend Alina. Alina was one of my AMAZING roommates when I studied abroad in Spain. She is from California and is in DC for the day to visit American for grad school. I'm thrilled she's staying long enough to have dinner with me:) And here's a picture of Alina, Nicole, Me and Sarah - we were all roomies! This was a picture from my 21st birthday party - the girls arranged for everyone to sign these huge card they'd made for me. Oh how I miss those days.

Done, Done and DONE!

Something old and borrowed: CHECK - My mom gave me my grandma's wedding band to attach to my dress somehow.

Unity candle: CHECK - An old friend from high school who is getting married in a few weeks checked out the blog and has a candle set she isn't using - she graciously offered it up and it looks perfect for what I'm looking for!

Bows to reserve the front pews: CHECK - Our neighbor just had a daughter get married and already has them ready to give away.

Yay! Lots of little things falling into place. I also found out that our invitations are on their way to us! I guess we'll have a very busy night once we receive them.

Tonight, I am taking a break from the wedding craziness and heading to the Nats game with some friends. Can't wait!

Picture Post

Two months from today!! Holy Crapola we have a lot to get done!!

Since it's a rainy Monday, I decided lots of pictures are in order for today's post.

Friday evening, I had a makeup trial with Sairra Lax at her home. She was super nice and sat with me for about 10 minutes prior to even touching my face to chat and ask questions so that she could get an idea of what I am looking for on the wedding day. My skin tone looked very natural and she added some "oomph" where I wanted some - the eyes. I think she did a pretty good job and with a couple adjustments, think I will be very happy on the day of. Here's the picture:

Later that night, we met Stacy and Jon for dinner in Laurel at Pasta Plus. The food was great and the company even greater. Here's a group shot:

We played a little bit of emotives: You're getting married tomorrow:

Saturday, I woke up and headed to my hair salon (Perez Salon and Day Spa) to meet with Michael. After getting a cut, highlights, deep conditioning treatment, he did a trial run for the big day. This was just to get an idea of what we're doing - so obviously on the day of, it will be much more clean and not as sloppy.

Picture of the front: the poofiness at the top will be higher and even:

We then headed to dinner at Mia's Pizza in Bethesda with Sarah and Carlton. Here is a picture of the four of us:

Yesterday was a super rainy day, but I met up with Emily in Tyson's for brunch. I haven't seen her in ages and I was excited to hear all about her trip to Kenya!

Afterwards, Ian and I ran errands and worked on wedding stuff at home. Here's a list of the progress we made:

• Bought Guest Book
• Wrapped Bridesmaid Gifts
• Designed and Printed Table Numbers

Things I hope/plan to accomplish this week:

• Meeting with our priest Tuesday evening
• Finish designing menu cards
• Begin printing menu cards
• Purchase postage for invitations
• If invitations arrive, assemble them and send them out
• Design favor cards
• Sign makeup contract
• Buy (cheap) frames for Table Numbers

It's a long list - but I'm feeling motivated and optimistic!

Clumsy

Today is the 2nd day that I've been back in non-flat shoes (yay!). Well - I guess my feet are just not used to it. As I am walking gracefully back to my desk from the bathroom, the heel slips on the recently shined tiles and I go flying forward onto all fours. What makes matters worse, is that our building is 10 floors, and I'm on the top where all of the executives sit. As I'm in slow motion starting the fall, I hear "ding" come from the elevators (I fell directly in front of them) and immediately think "uh-oh, what executive is about to witness this?" I quickly get up and readjust myself and glance around to see one of the execs who has a confused look on his face and says "Ummm, are you alright". Secretly, I was thinking that my foot was killing me and I didn't know if I could walk (not my ankle - thank goodness - I think my foot just hit the tiles hard), but giggled as I assured him I was fine and then walked away in horrible pain.

Ahhh - onto less embarrassing topics. Last night, I picked up my veil from Maggie's, picked up the bridesmaid gifts that arrived, and went to the mall to buy earrings for the big day. I found some that I like and snatched them! Here they are:

I have a makeup trial tonight and then we're heading to dinner at Pasta Plus with Stacy and Jon. We haven't seen those two in AGES so I'm pretty excited to catch up over some fine italian food.

Tomorrow, I am getting my hair did - color, cut, and trial for the wedding day. Essentially the whole works! Then tomorrow night we are doing dinner with Sarah and Carlton!

Sunday, I am heading to brunch with Emily.

Lots of plans this weekend with friends and wedding pampering! Also, trying to complete one of our projects this weekend - we'll see if we're able to fit that in!

Bullets

I'm all over the place today. I have to bullet it up to make this mish-mosh have some sense.

Movie Review:

• Simpsons movie: Prior to watching this movie, I had never watched an entire Simpsons episode. I know, something must be wrong with me, I was deprived, whatever. Because of this, I really wanted to watch the entire movie so I could understand what it's all about. Well, I fell asleep about 15 minute before the movie was over and when I woke up the next morning, Ian had already sealed the movie back up to ship it. Jerk! I couldn't believe it. He just assumed I didn't want to see the rest since I had fallen asleep. Actually, it's because we're wedding planning and I'm running around like a crazy woman getting everything done - I'm tired, I can't help but fall asleep sometimes. Anyways, from the part I did see, I liked it.
• The Talented Mr. Ripley: I have always heard that this is a great movie. Well it was! It was disturbing, intriguing and entertaining all in one. Certainly worthwhile to see. And Jude is a hottie in this movie!

Weekend Highlights:

• Went to the eye doctor for a screening for glaucoma (my grandma had it which makes me a suspect) and my eyes are perfectly fine.
• Selected our readings for the ceremony and selected our music for the bridesmaids entrance, my entrance, and our exit.
• My future hubby showed his support of my health kick by ordering me these new running shoes!! I love shoes - even running shoes. They make me happy.

• Celebrated Lisa's 25th birthday in Baltimore. Here's a picture of a few of us with the birthday girl - today is her big day so Happy Birthday Lis! We have plenty of stories behind our night out, including a stripper (who you'd never in a million years suspect to be) was in line in front of us pulling her pants down to show everyone her new tattoo on her cheek that says "Made in Korea", or the girl in line that asked a girl in our group to unbutton her jacket so she could see her boobs, ahhhh the class of power plant bars. A guy actually asked his girlfriend to marry him on stage at Howl at the Moon. It was quite a night!

• Ian bought his groomsmen their gifts and I have to say the idea is quite fun.
• I bought my bridesmaids part of their gifts. I still have one more thing to get each of them.

Speaking of ceremony music, I'm having issues figuring out the regular music for the ceremony. If you are Catholic and know of songs or have had to do this, recommend some for different parts of the ceremony! We already have my entrance song, our exit song, and some songs for the bridesmaids entrance and prior to the ceremony music (for when people are just walking in). It's a Catholic mass but somehow when it came time to picking out music, I can't even remember all the different parts of the mass where I'll need music. And are there guidelines to the music I pick?

And in order to not jinx myself, I will not name the videographer that I just sent a check to. I don't want to hear that we've been dropped again so I'll just wait to tell you about it once we receive confirmation.

I'm crossing more and more off our list which means I'm starting the week off as one happy lady.

Do I really look 21?

This weekend we didn't really accomplish anything wedding related. Friday night we went out to dinner at our favorite sushi restaurant, Niwanohana.

I'm still doing really well with my get-fit goal. Saturday, after working out, I packed and headed to UVA to visit my friend Katie (I call her Lewis). She is one of my fabulous bridesmaids and is an amazing girl. We had a blast catching up on life, having "remember when" conversations about Spain, living together, and gossip about old and new friends.


We started off hitting up some stores for a little shopping. We stopped by Think Rock Paper Scissors where I looked at some cute wedding invitations. Saturday night, we ate at this adorable tapas restaurant, Mas, and ordered Spanish tortilla, spinach salad, patatas bravas and dates with bacon. It was delicious!


We then headed to Three (can't find any website) where we played some pool with one of her friends and this random sketchy guy. He totally leaned in the corner and poured a/some pill(s) into his hand and took them all secretly. My drink had been sitting near him so I quickly ordered a new one for fear he'd roofie me! I'm paranoid like that! This sketch ball also asked how I think he looked. I told him 28 (which he is). Lewis asked him how old she looked - he said 24 (she is). I then asked how old I look - he replied 21, but knew I must be older because he knew I was getting married (saw the ring). 21?! Really?? Do I really look that young? It's funny, I was somewhat offended by this. But then I remind myself that in 20 years if I can pass for being younger than I really am, SCORE!

Yesterday, we woke up and grabbed some food and sat on the steps of the campus and looked out over the lawn. The campus is beautiful! I really fell in love with this town - so quaint and homey.


Here are some pictures from our fun weekend!

I look pregnant in this picture - bad angle!


Sketchy drug man:

The view from where we ate our breakfast:

The cute town of Charlottesville:

How was everyone's weekend?