A Weekend in Portland

Last weekend Dave and I decided to take a quick weekend away to Portland, Maine, for a vacation of eating, relaxing, walking around the city and biking.  We were able to do most of that.

Since we moved into Dave's parents house, we sold a lot of stuff on Craig's List.  A LOT.  So we had this giant wad of cash and as it grew, we decided to make it our vacation fund.  We knew we'd only end up with enough for a weekend away, someplace close that we could drive to.  We decided to go to Portland since I'd never been there, they had great restaurants with amazing food, and we would be able to walk the whole city or ride our bikes all around.  We'd initially scheduled the trip for this coming weekend, but Dave has to travel for work on Sunday and as I tried to find another weekend to go, it seemed the best price on the hotel we wanted during the summer would be to go right away. So we did.

We left work on Friday and drove up to Maine, checking into the Residence Inn Marriott on Fore Street.  We booked a Brew with a View package, which included a bucket of beers and other swag from Shipyard Brewing Company just next door to the hotel.  And when we checked in, we were given a complimentary upgrade to a suite on the top floor with a view of the harbor.  Not bad.

We settled in, cleaned up and then headed off to dinner at David's Restaurant, which had some pretty good reviews on OpenTable and a nice menu.  The night was cool, but summery and there were people walking about, but very little vehicle traffic, typical of the city--or at least the Old Port and Theatre District areas.  The restaurant was at Monument Square and there were street performers entertaining quite a large crowd when we got to the square.  The restaurant was very busy but we got seated at a table at the bar right away thanks to my making a reservation as Dave pulled off the highway.

We ordered drinks (a lovely Manhattan for me and a gin drink for Dave) and settled into the menu.  The dishes all sounded great and there was a good variety from pizza to entrees. Dave opted for the clam chowder with bacon (because it had bacon) and the open-faced lobster ravioli, which ended up coming with shrimp and scallops in a bisque-like sauce.  I ordered the garden salad and the meatloaf with mashed potatoes and mushroom gravy.  Everything was delicious.  The presentation was lovely, our waitress was very sweet and it was definitely the perfect way to start our weekend.  We finished by splitting a piece of snickers cheesecake and headed back to the hotel.

We thought about stopping into a bar on the way back, but instead decided to head to the hotel lounge which was featuring happy hour.  Dave ordered a beer and I got a cocktail and we sat in the lovely plush chairs making our plan for the next day.

Not that it mattered what we planned since we woke up to rain.  No biking for us.  After breakfast from the hotel buffet, we took a walk to the Eastern Promenade, just to take a look out at the ocean.  The rain was pretty steady and the wind was pretty awful.  But it was a decent walk.  And along the way, we made a friend.

After our walk, we went to Maine Mead Works where they make Honeymaker Mead.  I'd never had mead before, but Dave had (much to his chagrin).  But we like these kinds of tours, and neither of us really knew anything about mead, and they were offering a tasting so why not.  We walked in and were greeted by Ron, who I think is the owner.  He gave us a tour (just the two of us, which was kind of cool) and told us all about how they make mead, how they are growing, and how they get the different flavors.  It was all very cool and unique.  Very "microbrew" is concept, but totally scalable, it was very interesting to talk to the business owner on one of these tours.  We ended with a tasting, and two other couples ended up coming in to join as well.

Let me talk about the tasting: this was cool.  Like I said, I'd never had it before, but I really liked the honey flavor that defines this mead.  It's crisp and slightly sweet, but not like a sweet wine.  And there's still a slight element of it being a cousin to beer.  Dave and I both really liked the Blueberry, so we bought a bottle and are looking forward to having it at home.

After the mead tasting (and being a bit tipsy), we went to lunch at Duckfat, which may be the actual reason we chose to go to Portland at all.  Several years ago we saw this restaurant featured on Phantom Gourmet and they positively raved about the fries, which are cooked in--can you guess?--duck fat. Those fries totally lived up to the hype.  They were crunchy on the outside but soft on the inside, perfectly seasoned and just pure joy.  We ordered the Truffle Ketchup and the Sweet and Spicy Mustard Mayo. The ketchup was good but completely took away from the flavor of the fries, while the mustard mayo was a really nice compliment.  Dave ordered their Spicy Italian panini and I went with the special BBQ Beef Brisket panani.  We were both utterly satisfied at having braved the rainy weather to venture to this restaurant.  It was busy and we sat at the bar, but the staff were friendly and very much on top of things.  We'll absolutely be headed back there.

The completely nondescript front door of Duckfat, which has no sign, just a little lettering on the door.

After lunch, we visited Shipyard Brewing Company for a video tour (a little history of the brewery), a peek at their bottling line (the largest in Maine) and a bit of a tasting, both of the beers and Captain Eli's soda, which they also make and sell.  It was a big crowd for the tour, including a bachelor party and a bachelorette party (not related).  The best part was noticing that the guys with the bachelor party insisted the groom wear a hot pink sash with the title "It's all about me."  I can only imagine the ruckus caused by that conversation in the morning.  Although I also enjoyed that the tour started in a room filled with church pews and awards the brewing company has won.

The beer was very good; I'd never had it before (Dave had one of the bottles left in our room the night before), but I liked it.  And apparently their pumpkin beer (Pumpkinhead) is supposed to be amazing.  Given my love of the Harpoon Pumpkin UFO, I think a taste test is in order this fall.

We headed back to our room to digest (or sober up, we'd had a bit of alcohol from the tastings and it wasn't even happy hour yet) and watched movies.  We scoured menus, maps and brochures trying to pick a place for dinner.  Dave settled on Gilbert's Chowder House based on their award winning chowders and the fact that he was pretty sure it was a complete dive (not quite complete, but close). 

We braved the rain one more time, but I must admit, we lost this battle.  Gilbert's is on the last street perpendicular to the wharfs, so between the driving rain (it was pouring at this point) and the wind, we never stood a chance.  Rain coats and umbrellas were only good for keeping our heads dry  Walking to the restaurant, the rain drove right into our left sides, drenching us completely from the waste down.  We settled into our dinners (fried shrimp for Dave and a grilled chicken salad for me), enjoyed our beers, and drip-dried (somewhat) at our table that was luckily placed near the heater.  Besides being wet and rainy, the weather was also quite chilly, never getting out of the mid-fifties and probably dipping into the forties with the wind chill.  Luckily we emerged to a slightly lighter rain so that our right side didn't bear the wet brutality that we endured getting to our dinner.

Back in our room, cozy and dry, we called it a night, despite desperately wanting to go get dessert or even just get a drink somewhere.  But we'd pretty much had our fill of walking in the rain (and didn't have any dry pants other than pajamas).

Sunday was still rainy, but less intense.  After breakfast, we packed up and checked out.  Instead of leaving right away, we drove down to the other end of Fore Street and hoped to find some shops open.  We found Cool as a Moose which is a fun and funky gift shop with moose and Maine related paraphernalia among other amusing goods.  We poked around for a while and then bought a couple fun T-shirts for Dave, a pair of moose pajama pants for me and a baby gift for a friend.  By the time we were done browsing and shopping, East End Cupcakes was open.  So we stopped in for the dessert we didn't get the night before: a Funfetti Cupcake for Dave and a Salted Carmel Dark Chocolate Cupcake for me.  We didn't eat them until we go home, but I think we were both a little disappointed.  The frosting was pretty good (although I tasted mostly caramel until my last bite which was full of salt) but the cake was a little dry.  Pretty little desserts, but we'll likely try another bakery next time we visit.

We headed out of Portland but decided to stop in Kittery, Maine, for some outlet shopping.  We found a few things (well, found a few things that I wasn't looking for; Dave did not find anything that he was looking for) and then searched for a place for a late lunch.  We found Warren's Lobster House which sits right on the water.  We were surprised for how busy, but luckily were seated right away and had a booth overlooking the water.  Warren's has a pretty extensive salad bar with lots of goodies, so I enjoyed that with my chicken, while Dave added crab cakes and fried clams . 

We had a lovely lunch, watched the weird little birds trying to catch fish (some sort of gull or cousin of a seagull, but way smaller than you'd expect) and tried to transition from vacation mode.  For a last minute trip, and in spite of the terrible weather, we had a really great weekend.  The only thing we didn't get to do was ride our bikes, which just means we have to go back again.  Luckily it's only a 2 hour drive, so I think I convince Dave to go back.  Especially if I promise to stuff him full of seafood again.

Unpacking My Bags

Several years ago when Donald Trump's catch-phrase of "You're fired," became a part of day-to-day lexicon, Dave and I took it a step further and used it to express exasperation for any transgression the other many have made.  For example, if Dave for got to take out the trash, I'd tell him he was fired.  If I forgot to pick up the dry cleaning, I was fired.  We probably fire each other from various things at least once daily, more on the weekends. 

Yesterday I fired Dave from inviting me on vacations. 

Turns out, that I'm not actually allowed to accompany him on this particular trip to Germany, even if I pay my own way.  I'm not exactly sure why.  But in any case, I was sullen and fired Dave, then told him that in the future he should get all the details before inviting me on a European vacation. 

Then I told him that he totally owes me and it should be big, shiny and come in pairs.

Packing My Bags

Last night Dave came home. Yay!  I missed having him around and even though it was for a good cause (work and all), I was glad to have him home.  While we were catching up, we talked about his two upcoming trips--another to Chicago for a day or so in mid-June and then a trip to Germany at the end of June for a week long training at their company headquarters.

He also told me about some of the sage advice he got from Jason, the sales representative he shadowed in Pittsburgh (the first piece being to turn off work--literally, phone, tablet and laptop--every Friday at 4 pm).  I haven't even met Jason, but I feel compelling to sent him cookies.

We talked some more about Dave's Germany trip--the 12 hour flight; changing planes in a foreign city, just being somewhere so unlike anywhere he's ever been.

Dave: Oh and Jason said I should take you.

Me (a little shocked): Oh. ?

Dave: Do you want to go?

Me (I): Um, yes.

What I should have said was, "Dude, lead with the invitation to Germany."

I studied German for 12 years, from first grade through high school and have always wanted to go.  My schedule didn't allow for me to study abroad in college, and I haven't had a class since I was 18, but dude, really?  I'll have to pay my own way, but that's ok, because I'll be in freakin' Germany.

Dave doesn't have the details yet (well, he does know the dates and his flight, but he didn't remember them when we talked), but I do know we're headed to Schwabach, which is in Bavaria. I see much beer in our future.

In the interim, I'll need to brush up on my German skills.  Good thing I work with people who are from there...maybe if I buy them lunch they'll ignore the fact that my grammar is horrendous and I forget words...a lot.  But I do remember how to order a beer and ask for the restroom.  You know, important stuff.

OMG We Went to Disney World!

I've been recovering from awesomeness (or Disney Magic), that's why this post is delayed.  Or it's what I'm telling myself.

We had an awesome time in Orlando with my family.  On Christmas Day, Dave and I flew into Charlotte, rented a car and headed to my sister's house to meet her family and my parents.  We had some food, packed up the cars and then headed out on the first leg of our trip.  We stopped in Georgia and spent the night.  We were a little punchy from the holiday, the travel and the rain we drove through.  The kids in particular were a bit crazy.

The next morning we geared back up and hit the road again.  The drive wasn't bad but our GPS decided that after 5 years functioning mostly in the Northeast it couldn't handle being that close to the equator and kept losing satellite signal. For like 10-30 minutes at a time.  Luckily we were following Nate and Amy and had printed directions so we never got lost (except for that one time that Amy told us to take the wrong exit but technically we weren't lost, just wrong).

Can we talk for a second about traffic in Orlando?  Nate, growing up in Florida, had always mentioned Florida drivers but I never really understood what that meant. OH MY GOD THEY"RE CRAZY!  The sheer magnitude of traffic was nuts, no matter what time of day (I do realize that we were there at the busiest time of the year) but the blatant disregard for other drivers and/or basic traffic laws was insane.  At one point we watched several cars--at different points on the highway--cross the grassy median to get on the highway in the opposite direction because they didn't want to drive all the way to the exit.  Dave even mentioned he was surprised no one tried to go through the guardrails to do it.  Then we rolled up on an accident where someone crashed into the guardrail.  We can only assume they were trying to go over it and go in the other direction.

Despite the crazy drivers, we got to our rental and it was amazing.  Seriously, if you ever travel to Orlando and want to stay off the Disney properties, visit Florida Sun Vacation Homes (thanks Felise and Nick for the recommendation!)  We had everything we needed, including 5 bedrooms (with en suite baths), a kitchen, private pool, game room, everything.  This made it easy for us to eat breakfast at the house each morning and pack snacks for the parks.

Our first day was at Epcot and it was awesome. Though it did rain at one point, I must admit my Eagle Scout came through for me.  A week or so before, Dave bought ponchos for us and packed them in our bags so we wouldn't have to run around to a gift shop in the parks if the clouds let loose.  So while we were drinking our way through the countries (me on my second margarita and Dave on his third beer) (at maybe 1 or 1:30 pm), it started to sprinkle and then come down a little heavier.  Dave suggested we stop and put on our ponchos.  So we huddled under a tree while one of us held the alcohol, the other put on a poncho.  By the time we were adequately covered it started to pour.  Like a serious storm.  Happy little campers with out ponchos and drinks, we started to make our way towards the UK which was where the rest of my family was hunkering down from the rain.  On our way I looked up and we were just about the only people a) not squeezed under some sort of roof and b) not running like mad to get to a roof and squeeze under it.  We made our way to the pub and peered in the window where we spied Nate. He was getting a beer at the bar and when he saw Dave he pointed to his beer, basically asking Dave if he needed one.  Dave pointed to his and we took a seat at the outdoor chairs since we were protected from getting too drenched.  The rain stopped after about 20 minutes or so and we gathered up the rest of our crew.

Yeah, Amy, JR & I all in the phone booth.  Sibling Love.

Donde esta Donald?

We ate at Via Napoli in Italy and it was phenomenal.  We'd gotten reservations for the Candlelight Processional so they treated us right and made sure we enjoyed ourselves and got out on time for the show without feeling rushed.

After the show, some people headed back to the house (the rain had brought with it some cold and though most of us had sweatshirts, we weren't really prepared for the drop in temperature).  The rest of us (Nate, JR, Dave, Elyse, Aidan and I) did a few rides, including the Test Track which was really cool.  They take you through a simulation of car safety tests and then spit you out on a track at about 65 miles per hour.  It was awesome, although I did lose my voice (don't worry, I found it...10 days later) from the screaming.  I love this picture because Elyse's face is more of disgust or "Ew, what's that smell?" than fear.

The next day we hit up Magic Kingdom.  It was crowded and crazy but totally awesome.

We spent a lot of time in Tomorrowland (hello, Space Mountain!) but also did the Jungle Book Cruise and Pirates of the Caribbean (ZOMG I love Pirates!  And can we talk about how much Johnny Depp really does look like Jack Sparrow?  I mean, the ride came first, so they really did an awesome job finding someone to play Jack that looks so much like the original.)  But back to Jungle Book Cruise--our tour guide was hilarious--Trevor? Tristan?  Funny guy (plus we got the best seats since we got to board first).  Abi was a hoot--when Trevor/Tristan told her to duck so the pygmies wouldn't spear her, she seriously ducked!

We paused during the day to have dinner at Chef Mickey, which was great.  We celebrated my parents' anniversary (40 years this April), which included dancing from the characters and a cute plate of cupcakes.  The kids loved getting the character's autographs and it made for an easy way to get pictures (rather than standing in line for 20 minutes like I did for Pooh Bear and Tigger).

This was the only full costumed character Abi would even get near.  She was ok with Mulan and looking at all the characters, but the animals were a little big and intimidating.  Since Pluto was being goofy, she was too tickled to be afraid.

My parents had enough after two days of parks so they took a break on the third day while Amy, Nate, Dave, Aidan, Abi and I went to Hollywood Studios.  JR, Jen and Elyse went to Dade City Wild things where they got to play with a leopard cub.

Hollywood Studios was fun--you can do the whole park in a day (or less).  Because we got there early, we received special FastPasses for the stunt show, which was pretty cool.  We rode the Star Tours ride which was a lot of fun, especially because Aidan (and by proxy Abi) is into Star Wars pretty good as a result of the Clone Wars cartoon.  Aidan did Jedi training, we watched the Indian Jones stunt show, did the back lot tour (although the sound system was busted so while we rode the tour, we didn't really get any information), saw the Muppet 3-D movie and ended the night with a ride on the Rockin Roller Coaster. It was fantastic.  Aidan was fine while we were standing in line, but just when we could actually see the coaster (it's indoors) and watch it go from zero to 60 right next to us, he started to get increasingly terrified.  And if I'm being honest, so was I.  My heart was pounding and I was getting anxious because I don't love roller coasters, but I always go on them.  But this one was fantastic.  I actually think it could have been longer.  And when we came to a stop, the first thing I heard from Aidan behind me was, "That was AWESOME!  Let's do it again!" (And if it hadn't been an 80 minute wait in line, we probably would have.)

Aren't you a little old to be getting your picture taken with characters?

The last day, JR, Jen and Elyse hit up Sea World before flying out, while Amy, Nate and the kids went to Animal Kingdom, followed by Downtown Disney.
 

We stayed back with Mom and Dad and relaxed since we'd be driving all the way back to Charlotte the next day.  We had a chance to hang out, play cards and then the four of us caught up with my uncle Chuck and his wife Lori for dinner, which was nice.

The next day we got up early and hit the rode to get back to Charlotte for New Year's Eve.  Exhausted, no one stayed up to watch the ball drop.  Apparently there were fireworks in the neighborhood but I didn't hear them given my Disney-induced sleep coma.  In the morning, Dave and I headed out to the airport and flew home.

It was an amazing trip and I'm so glad we got to do it as a family.  I would love to visit Disney again (maybe in a less crowded time), but nothing would top this particular trip.

Oh yeah, that happened

It's been busy what with the holidays and all, so we've been in the swing of things with people to see and place to go.  Here's what's happened in the last week or so.

• Dave had a birthday party. It was fun and everyone showed up (except Ben because he forgot).  I made awesome cupcakes because I finally "applied myself" so Cindy can shut it. :)
• Dave's party was great until Mia made everyone leave because she kept farting and her butt smells like rotten eggs rolled in moldy bologna when she really gets going.
• I told you about Mia's meet and greet.  So we still have her.  Santa may or may not have gotten her extra gifts because of it.
• Dave had a birthday. He's old.
• Dave's cousin Mike and his wife Donna came to visit us on Friday.  We hung out for a bit, they spoiled Mia by letting her lick and give them kisses.  Then we went to Madaline and Ernie's house for dinner and had a simple Christmas evening with them.
• We took Mike and Donna to Nashoba Valley Winery at 10 am where we made them do the tasting before they picked which wines they wanted to buy.  In our defense, Donna was the one that suggested going there in the first place.  Note: Dave and I did not do the tasting, in part because we could still taste our toothpaste.
• Mike and Donna headed out to her sister's for a party, so we went to my aunt and uncle's house for their holiday party.  We were thoroughly entertained by a former Pan-Am pilot who had some pretty amazing stories.
• For Bud and Sandy's party, I made this appetizer because it was simple, cute, and I had all the ingredients.  One of the guests actually paraded it around the room before anyone was allowed to eat it so everyone could see how cute it was.  Then she let people eat and by the time it made its way back to the buffet, only one-third was left.  Hilarious.  Who knew?
• The Baltimore Ravens lost.  

I think that sums it up.  This week will most likely be the LONGEST.WEEK.EVER. and not just because Christmas is nearly upon us, but because WE'RE GOING TO DISNEY WORLD!  On Christmas Day, Dave and I are flying to Charlotte where we'll meet my parents and my sister and her family.  We'll drive part way to Orlando on Sunday and then the rest of the way on Monday.  We'll meet my brother and his family in Orlando and spend a week with the Mouse (and friends).  It'll be awesome. I'm anticipating lots of blog fodder, if not from my family then from random people at the parks.  

Weekend Trip to Maine

Last weekend, our friends Felise and Nick invited us to join them at a friend's condo in Bridgton, Maine.  Since Panda was at her new home, we took advantage of the late season ski conditions, packed up our gear and headed out.

Nick grew up with family friends who bought a condo right across the street from Shawnee Peak, a downhill ski area.  Erica, one of the children in that family, was going up and invited Nick, Felise and any of their friends to come up.  We picked them up on Friday night and drove up to Maine in the rain and fog to meet Erica at the condo.

The next morning, we woke up to sunshine and were expecting temperatures in the mid-40s.  Erica and Nick got ready for downhill skiing at Shawnee Peak, while Dave prepared to snowboard.  Apparently the mountain was doing a theme day to encourage people to go skiing, so Saturday was "Retro Day."  Since Erica's family had the condo since the early 90s, she found the perfect outfit: a hot pink snowsuit, complete with shoulder pads, cinched belt and matching sweater.  Very hot.

Unfortunately, Erica was the only non-employee who was dressed and she still didn't get an actual prize.  Apparently the contest was rigged (employees voting for other employees), but the manager felt bad enough that he ran into the ski shop and got Erica a fleece scarf and glove set.  At least she got something out of it.

Like me, Felise doesn't downhill either.  So we went cross country skiing at a nearby apple orchard, Five Fields Orchard.  It was very cute and unlike any cross country trails I've been on, in a lot of ways.  First, the guy running the place (we didn't catch his name, so we called him Al) was busily painting and wood-working the trail signs in the hut when we arrived and was covered in sawdust.  He was really nice and showed us the trail map, making suggestions, and reminding us that since all the signs were in the hut, there wouldn't be much signage on the trails.  Al asked us to sign in, took our ten bucks and offered us free bottled water.  Then we went out on our merry way.

From the top of the hill at the hut.

The orchard is beautiful and sits on the top of a hill.  There is even a cemetery in the orchard (this became a reference point for us), so eclectic might begin to describe the place.  Unfortunately, the orchard isn't contained to just the top of the hill, and in order to get to the long trails, we had to go down.  A lot.  These hills were pretty steep.  Add to that, the rainy conditions from Friday made the snow very very fast.

One of the reasons I don't do downhill is because I don't like the speed nor do I feel like I have much control.   I could not stop no matter how hard I tried.  I had warned Felise of my propensity for falling, but this was a little excessive.  We had gone west across the orchard, and then started down the hill.  It was much steeper than I thought, so I tried, desperately, to turn and head back across the orchard to the east.  And I fell.  And then I was trying to get back up, but since my skis were still pointed down the hill, I couldn't and fell again.  Eventually, after several failed attempts, I got up and we trekked back to the other side, hoping for less downhill action.  It was better, but I still fell a few times.  The best however, was when I managed to fall on my butt and not my face, but still slid down the hill for a good 10 feet.  It was awesome.

Finally in the ravine, we managed to be successful and enjoy the beautiful scenery.  Since it was sunny, the snow glistened and since it was late in the season, there was no one around.  In fact, it wasn't until we were close to being finished that we saw another skier.  We definitely enjoyed a peaceful and serene workout, even if getting back up the hills were killer.

Crossing the stream.  That's Felise way ahead of me.

We headed back and reported the conditions to Al.  He offered us suggestions for lunch and then I asked him, since he didn't give us trail pass tags for our coats, if we could come back later.  He said sure, we had the whole day, no problem.  I think that's when Felise noticed the sign on the porch that said, "If no one's here, just put your fee in the bucket and enjoy the trail."  Nothing like the honors system.  I figure, the skiing thing was just something this guy did to take advantage of his orchard being covered in snow.

We met Erica, Nick and Dave at the condo for lunch and then decided to head back out to the trails while they hit the slopes again.  It started to cloud up in the afternoon, but I was much more competent.   I actually only fell once and that was because I couldn't make the turn I wanted to and it was either fall or hit a tree.  I decided against choosing the tree.

I did however, manage to lose my pole randomly.  We were cruising along and I pulled up my right arm only to discover my hand was empty.  And I had a hard time stopping because I was going at a pretty good skate and was laughing pretty hard.  Once I finally stopped and regained composure, I looked back and there it was, sticking up in the ground.  Clearly the snow was much stickier this time around.  Or I didn't pull my strap tight enough.

Way back there in the middle of the trail is my pole.

Eventually we met back a the condo again.  We decided to go to Moat Mountain Smokehouse for dinner in North Conway, New Hampshire.  I'll admit, it was kinda cool going to Maine for the weekend, but then going to another state for dinner.  Only in New England.  That and it was 25 minutes away. 

Dave and I have been to North Conway a couple of times for winter trips and the last time we were there, we found this restaurant. It's awesome.  They do barbecue, pizza, burgers, and all kinds of yummy stuff, plus they have their own beer.  I suggested it and Erica was so excited because she hadn't been there in a while.  Felise and Nick had never been and it turned out to be a great choice.  The food was great and a perfect follow up to a long day of skiing.

For an impromptu vacation weekend, this was definitely a good one.  We had a leisurely Sunday, cleaned up and headed back home.  I'm glad we got out skiing again too, because it would have been a shame not to take advantage of the snowy winter we've had. 

Oh, and when we got home, Dave swears he saw a mouse cross the drive way and jump into the house were the siding meets the foundation.  C'mon, you'd have been disappointed if that saga had ended.

Let The Games Begin

This evening, D and I will begin our trip to Pittsburgh for my Family Reunion on Saturday. We'll get into my parent's place tomorrow afternoon. My brother will already be there with his daughter and her half-sister. My sister will get in with her husband and two kids on Friday. We'll harass each other and have a great time and leave on Monday.

I'm really looking forward to it. Mainly because I'm sure I'll get blog-fodder, especially from my brother, J. He can't help but be funny and do dumb things. It's almost like a super-power. And he also can't help but get himself into trouble and think and can one-up my sister and I. So we band together and verbally bitch-slap him into submission until he's talked himself into a corner and is left with no choice but to drink more beer (or some random combination of liquor he finds in my parents house. True story--he once, (maybe more than once?) drank a pint glass with half milk, half Bailey's. Not a bad combination, it's just the quantity that kills me. He did have the presence of mind to use it to wash down a stack of cookies, though).

Anyway, to prepare for his antics this coming weekend, which I'm sure will be quickly checked by my sister, I thought I'd share this nugget. Especially because I'm sure this situation will be debated more than once this weekend.

My parents hold 4 season tickets to the Pittsburgh Steelers. They've had their seats since the mid-70s and have been going to games since then. Growing up, it was a BIG DEAL if one of us got to go to a game. Now, it's a matter of who can get their check to Mom the fastest.

Due to the deadlines of when the payment for tickets are due and when the season schedule comes out (usually within weeks of each other, sometimes payment before you know what the schedule is), you really need to commit to how many games you want to go to and send your check, not necessarily knowing which one you're going to get.

Last year, being that the Steelers had won the Superbowl the previous season, we knew the Steelers would have a home game and be the first game (read: Thursday night) of the season. What was unclear was exactly when the season would start. I got my check in to Mom first and secure my spot at first dibs. Lo and behold, the Opening Game was scheduled for the Thursday before my wedding. Woohoo! Let's kick off the wedding weekend getting crazy at the football game!

After several months of debate and a lot of grumbling on my part, it was decided that it would be best if I didn't go to the game and lose my voice. (Happens every time--what can I say? I'm a screamer.) What with having to do last minute wedding details, my sister and I decided to stay home with Mom and the kids and the boys (Dad, J, D, and my brother-in-law, N) would go to the game.

About 2 weeks before the game, I got a call from an aunt who's niece had two extra tickets and did my sister (A) and I want them? Um, hell yeah! Jokes on the boys now, because our seats were much better (let's just say my parents seats have a skyline view, and these seats were 35 yard line).


Never mind that A and I were fed a lot of beer from the two guys next to us and kind of forgot about eating dinner--we had a good time. As a result, however, J says I owe him.

Fast forward to this year. In February, I'd sent my mom a check for something that ended up falling through. She'd mention she would shred it, but I told her to keep it since it was the same amount for 2 tickets to a game. Score--first dibs secured yet again.

In April, the schedule was released and I immediately see two possible choices. And then I get a phone call from my brother.

J: Hey, did you see the schedule? What game are you going to?

Me: Not sure. What game did you want?

J: Well, I was thinking that Atlanta game looked good.

Me: Oh, you mean the home opener? You mean the game that falls on my one-year anniversary? Yeah, I don't know about that.

J: Ok,that's fine. I'll take the Patriots game.

Me: Oh, you mean the game my husband really wants to go to in order to irritate all our Patriots-fans friends?

J: Dammit.

Me: Yeah, I'm not sure, I've really got to think about this. Which one do you really want?

J: Well I would love to see Tom Brady killed on the field.

Me: Ok, well, what are you going to do for me?

It went on like this for a little while. D and I had already decided to take the Patriots game, but I enjoyed tormenting my brother, as is customary.

So I'm sure this weekend there may be some "discussion" related to the games, perhaps bribery may be involved. All I know is that I will continue to get my money in early and often, because tormenting my brother is hilarious.

A Beautiful Day

This past weekend, D and I went to Philadelphia (ok, actually Conshohocken) for a wedding. My close friend L was finally getting married! I was thrilled for the weekend away and totally ecstatic to watch L and her husband (!), also an L, get hitched.

We left Friday morning, got through New Jersey before suffering through some rush hour traffic outside of Philly, eventually getting to our hotel. Shout-out to the Residence Inn Conshohocken--the rooms were great, the staff was very friendly, and the hotel looked really nice. The ambiance made up for the fact that it is situated right next to the commuter rail line.

After checking in and dumping our bags, we hopped back in the car to go to dinner with some other friend's of ours, M & B, and their sweet 2 1/2 year old son, C. We had a great time reconnecting and meeting C for the first time. He was very sweet and fell in love with D over dinner (of course D had bought him a truck that they played with across the table, so that may or may not have had something to do with it).

After dinner we took a walk around the King of Prussia Mall, partially to spend some more time and partially do let C walk off some energy. And I may or may not have forgotten my cardigan for the wedding, so I actually did have an excuse to shop. But I was well behaved (since we were with company and all) and that's all I bought.

It was so good to see our friends and I'm so glad we had an opportunity to see them in addition to traveling for the wedding. I always feel more productive when I travel somewhere and am able have more than one purpose.

Some of our other friends (M & K--the bump twins from our Vermont Girls' Weekend) got into the hotel late and stopped by with M's husband, N, before we headed to sleep. Waking up we got a great breakfast at the hotel to line our stomachs for an afternoon of margaritas, and inevitably, shenanigans.

The wedding was at noon and L had arranged for a friend to have a van shuttle guests the 1/2 mile from the hotel to the restaurant (good idea, L!). We arrived, met a few of our other friend's and got ready for the ceremony.

(I've stolen these photos from K because I don't have mine yet. D took a whole bunch of great shots, but is still playing with them, so I don't have them in my files yet. So it was either steal from K or wait on this post. I think K would have encouraged me to steal.)


The weather was perfect. It was a little overcast early, but very warm. It eventually got very hot and sunny, but no rain for an outdoor wedding is perfect.


L was so pretty. Her dress was perfect and everything was simple and beautiful. There ceremony, performed by her childhood pastor, was tailored specifically for the two of them. And her father, also a minister, read them their vows. It was a perfectly touching ceremony.

Upon being presented as husband and wife, L&L made a beeline for the frozen margaritas. The rest of the guests followed suit, and soon enough we had a real party on our hands. Well, actually a fiesta--it was a Mexican restaurant after all.

from left to right: M, H, B, L, me, and K. Yes, the two pregnant chicks appear to be holding margaritas. And yes, they are non-alcoholic.

The traditional dances took place and I love watching them. For L&L, you could see throughout the entire day exactly how in love they are. I think this picture captures it all.


D has a little issue wearing plain white shirts, so he decided to go for a fiesta-appropriate color. And so did K's husband A! I love it when boys coordinate.

mine is the bald one

And of course, about 4 weeks later, we have new bump pictures from the mommies to be:

M is supposed to find out what they are having this week, but K already knows they're having a boy! Congrats!

UPDATE 6/21/10: M & N are also having a boy! Yea!

After wonderful food, many margaritas, a lot of dancing, a lot of hugs and tears, and maybe a few more margaritas, the reception ended. We went back to the hotel, changed into more comfortable attire, and intended to hit up an after-party at the hotel.

Except the bride passed out and didn't make it to the party. Hey, it was hot, she had a long day, and several long months of planning (and being a med student and all), I don't blame her one bit.

So after visiting with groom L's family and friend's for a little while, we decided to hit up a nearby Dave and Buster's. Saying Dave and Buster's is D's favorite place in the world is probably pretty accurate. Anywhere he can get beer and play unlimited video games is a good place.

So M and her husband N, K and her husband A, and D and I took a little ride and started playing some games. Skeeball and racing are two of our favorites; our friends loved anything that gave tickets. K was a mission to get a lot of tickets and cash them in for a really good prize. Imagine her excitement when A decided to play the Spin & Win (literally, you spin the wheel and hit a button when you want it to stop).

notice that the green light is on the 1000 marker at the top

Yes, he hit it for 1000 tickets! What does 100 tickets look like, you ask? Like this:


Shortly there after, we cashed out. Most of the tickets were redeemed for SweeTarts, but a Bop-It was also awarded.

Back at the hotel, I realized I was actually pretty much hung-over. It was 10:00 pm, but since I started drinking at about 12:30 pm, it wasn't too unreasonable. Shortly thereafter, D realized he wasn't doing so good. So to bed with us, rising much better in the morning and prepared for our drive home.

It was a fabulous weekend and a beautiful wedding. I wish L&L nothing but the best in a life of love.