Sala B

Finding my new self

2011-11-06T19:56:00.001-05:00

The word that comes to mind when people ask me what it's like being a new mom is adjustment. Finn is almost 4 and 1/2 months old and sometimes I still don't feel like a mom. With each day, I feel more confident in taking care of him, I fall more and more in love with him, and can hardly imagine life without him. It's mind boggling that he didn't exist outside of my body a year ago. And yet, I still haven't adjusted to my new self. How do you blend the selfish, single you with the selfless, maternal you? I think the mistake many new parents make is becoming too much of one and neglecting the other. But figuring out how to blend the two is a balancing act, an adjustment.

I know it's healthy for me and for my son for me to have an identity outside of being mother and wife. But in the sleep deprived, survival period of the first few months of motherhood, I'm not sure how.

Asking for advice is a double edged sword. It can be refreshing to hear someone acknowledge what you are feeling is normal. Yet, confusing when you are given conflicting advice. My advice to myself (and any other new parent) is to listen and trust your instincts. I was able to get in touch with that instinct during labor and birth. It was a process, almost like birth itself. But I got there and am so glad I did. The reward was so sweet.

So I'm going to spend a little time listening to the inner me and try to figure this new self out. I know I can do it, just like I knew I could have the birth that mattered to me.

I shall call this blog post a big ol' dump

2011-06-17T02:07:00.000-04:00

It's the middle of the night. I'm 40 weeks, 6 days pregnant. I should be sleeping but instead I am waiting for labor. A watched pot never boils. I know this, yet when the storm hit tonight and woke me up I couldn't help but think, "where are the contractions?".

Markus has been asking me to write a blog post for a long time. I wanted to give him his son for Father's Day, but maybe this post will have to do. Before bed, we scrolled through the blog on his iPhone and looked back at some of the earlier posts I wrote. It was a lot of fun to read and look back through our first two years together as a married couple. I haven't blogged regularly in almost a year and I don't really know why. I just haven't felt inspired to write or take photos. My camera sits beside the front door, begging to be used. I keep telling myself I will take pictures when the baby comes. Hmmmmm.....

So, third trimester...and beyond....It hasn't been so bad. It is uncomfortable. With each new symptom I get I have to get used to it before I can settle in for the long haul. For example, getting up to pee twice a night and having to turn from right to left every hour was really annoying at first. Now I'm used to it. When the heat kicked in and I felt like it was 1000 degrees outside, I had to complain and huff and puff. Now I just expect to be hot and sweaty. I think I have adjusted pretty well.

I started prenatal yoga around 30 weeks and that has really helped. I use the techniques learned in class to give my body a nice stretch every morning and get the baby in the most comfortable position. I also stopped working at 34 weeks (thank you, Markus!!!). And as soon as I stopped working, I was able to sleep better and felt a sense of calm during the day.

The 1st 4 weeks I was home alone, except when Markus had off. I had my little routine of sitting on the deck with the dogs, reading, watering the flowers, doing yoga. Then I would plan something with a friend or run errands, take an afternoon nap, and make a yummy dinner or go out. The last 3 weeks Markus has been home with me. It worked out that he was able to have off an extra 1 1/2 weeks before his baby "vacation" officially started. We etched out a little routine as well, similar to the one when I was home alone. It's been such a blessing to have these last few weeks home alone together. I keep reminding myself that it will be a long while until we are able to be just husband and wife and to soak it all up. Precious time that not many get to experience before the birth of their first child. We have gotten to do things we normally wouldn't have the time to do. We finished the nursery and checked off all of our to do's. We have gone swimming, seen matinees, napped together almost everyday, taken walks, we even had a picnic in the park.

But, it hasn't all been sweet togetherness. The clock is ticking for Markus' return to work and each day there is no baby brings a little bit of tension. We both feel like we are wasting time that could be spent getting to know our sweet little one before he has to leave again. I have been telling myself daily affirmations throughout the pregnancy to help me focus on the positive and keep away the nagging negative thoughts. The two that I keep telling myself lately are "I trust my body" and "I trust my baby". I know that there is a reason he hasn't come yet. That he will come when my body is ready and he is ready to be born. Babies are smart that way if left alone, I truly believe this.

You hit 40 weeks and everyone is like "where is that baby?!?". Like I am disappointing a whole population because I am still pregnant. And I'm only 6 days past my due date people! I think that has been the hardest part for me about the last week. That, and counting down the days until Markus goes back to work and I'm home alone with a newborn. It's a lot to weigh on the psyche of a hormonal pregnant woman. But I am doing the best I can to stay positive and stay connected to my husband. I need to stay in that frame of mind if I am going to get through labor, delivery, and post partum.

The hardest work is yet to come. And the biggest reward is right around the corner.

Pregnancy...so far

2011-03-18T14:06:00.000-04:00

There are a few things I would like to remember about pregnancy, and a few things that I would like to forget. And hopefully what I would like to forget happens before we decide to have another so I can be naive about it all over again. Ignorance really is bliss. Of course, every woman is different and every pregnancy is different so I might have a whole different experience the next go round.

Conception to 14 weeks
I had sickness in my first trimester. It wasn't as bad as I have heard from other women but it wasn't exactly fun. It started around 7 weeks and then magically disappeared at 14 weeks. I don't think I'll really forget what that felt like but maybe the feeling will numb. There are still some foods I can't eat because I ate them so much in my 1st trimester that it reminds me of the feeling of being sick. Those foods are applesauce, pickles, saltine crackers, and ginger ale. Godsends at the time but thinking about them now makes me feel sick all over again. Moving on...

The fatigue. You hear mothers talk about the fatigue that you will feel in your 1st trimester but no one can really prepare you for it. I'm a person who enjoys sleep so the thought of being tired didn't really phase me before I got pregnant. I just thought, "more time to sleep, yah!". I compare it to being drugged and then trying to function during that fog.

The worry, fear, anxiousness, excitedness, holy crap - we're having a baby! I'm sure all new moms feel all of these feelings, sometimes at once. It was definitely very exciting. But it's also scary knowing that your body is making another person and thinking of all the things that could go wrong. Hopefully this part gets better with experience. We shall see.

15 weeks to 27 weeks
A friend of mine referred to the 2nd trimester as the "sweet spot" and for me it's been true. I have absolutely LOVED my 2nd trimester. I love everything about being pregnant right now, but I have to say my absolute favorite thing is feeling him move. It's amazing and such a bonding experience. I can be sitting at my desk having a bad day and then feel him move and it makes everything ok. This is when the pregnancy starts to feel real. I started feeling baby Finn move around 16 weeks. At first it was just a flutter, then a little nudge, and now it's full on bumps in the night. Last night Markus put his hand on my belly to say goodnight to him and he kicked in the exact spot he was touching. So cool!

There are minor aches and pains that I have gotten used to. My tailbone hurts if I sit to long. I have leg cramps, especially at night. I have gotten used to peeing all of the time. My back hurts when I'm sleeping if I stay in one position for to long. And then there is the tummy issues. But it's all so worth it and I'm not complaining. It could be much worse or I could have real health issues.

Tomorrow I am 28 weeks and enter my 3rd and final trimester. This makes me a little sad because I love having the baby inside of me, always with me. But I'm also really excited to meet him on his birthday. I want to know what he looks like, what he smells like, what he sounds like, and smother him in hugs and kisses. I am also excited to see Markus become a father. I can't wait to see him hold his son for the first time and see him blossom into a dad.

In just 3 short months our lives will be forever changed and I will finally be a mother to my baby boy. No longer a family of two as baby makes three.

To my baby boy

2011-01-17T11:05:00.000-05:00

I have been a "mommy" to our fuzzy male children for quite some time now and we refer to Charlie & Meeko as "the boys". But come June there will be a new boy in our lives. We found out what we already suspected, that you are indeed a boy. My baby boy. I hope your furry brothers will love you as much as we already do.

I feel so connected to you know and can already picture what you are going to look like. Your profile in the ultrasound was so cute and showed you sucking your thumb. I can't wait to meet you in June, but for now I'm content with having you swimming around in my tummy, giving me little kicks to let me know you are okay.

Now that we know you are a boy, I have ideas swimming around in my head for baby names and nursery ideas. I hope you like what we come up with. For now we are calling you Finn. I have been talking & singing to you lately. I hope you can hear me, although my singing voice isn't as good as your Granma's. Your daddy has been lying his head on my tummy to see if he can feel you, and he kisses you in my belly every chance he gets. You are already so loved by all of your family and we are all looking forward to meeting you in June.

You are 6 inches long and weigh 10 ounces at 19 weeks. The baby book says you're about the size of a tomato. I can hardly wrap my head around that!

Keep growing, little man. We are halfway there.

Love,

Your mommy

The beginning

2010-12-13T14:02:00.001-05:00

Week Four - 10/3/10

{I wrote this to Baby H the weekend we found out we were pregnant. I wanted to capture what I was feeling so that I could remember that magical feeling forever}

Dear baby,

I can't believe you are finally happening. I have been dreaming about you for what feels like my whole life. I am not a patient person but I knew this was something I had to wait for. I had to be ready, your dad had to be ready, and our life together had to be ready. Even though I know you are never really ready for something this big, I am ready.

I knew you were with me even before you could tell me. You made me very tired just 1 week after we made you. 5 days after that first feeling I came home and confirmed it with a pregnancy test, even though it was too early (mommy does not have patience). Your dad was watching a show on planes when I handed him the test. He asked if it is was for real and I said yes. We both started crying and touched my belly. We are both so happy to have you with us.

We went to your Grandpa Ukki's house this weekend to meet your cousin Kyle. We had to keep you a secret, which was very hard. I had to pretend to drink alcohol and sauna, 2 things that are very popular on your father's side. I kept looking at Kyle and imagining what it will be like to have you there, too. I can't wait to meet you, but for right now I am content to have you inside my belly where I know you are safe. I'm so happy I get to carry you around for 9 months and nurse you to life.

When we got home tonight I took one more test to make sure you weren't a dream. The test was still positive and I couldn't have been happier.

The world has changed so much in the last 5 days. I can't wait to meet you on your birthday.

Love,

Your mommy

Honeymoon {November 2008}

2010-12-12T21:11:00.011-05:00

{This post is a little late. Our anniversary was November 15th but I spent the day in bed with a cold. I've been a little under the weather (I think it's called morning sickness) but I'm feeling much better!}

Most people reading this already know that we got married in Jamaica. Actually, if you're reading this you probably attending the wedding. Your wedding day is one of those days that stays with you for a long time. And I hope by remembering the little moments each year, I won't forget. But this post is about our honeymoon in Jamaica.

We decided to honeymoon in Negril at a little place called Rock House. We had a secluded room with a private deck and outdoor bathroom. Our room had no tv or internet. It was just the two of us and the sound of the sea below. The weather was terrible. Their was a tropical system sitting right on top of the island that came the evening we checked in and didn't leave until we were back in the States. Our resort was known for snorkeling, with private ladders leading from our balcony right to the sea. But we didn't touch the water the entire time we were there. The water was too rough and the ladders were taken up. We couldn't even swim in the pool b/c it was so close to the ocean and the waves were knocking into the pool. But it was still perfect in every way.

We spent our days just the two of us lounging on the deck reading, sleeping, and eating. You hardly saw another person because the resort only has 34 rooms. It was the perfect way to honeymoon. When we did want to be around people we went to the outdoor lounge area where their were board games, a bar, and internet. Or, we explored Negril and it's colorful people. The food was amazing...

As were the sunsets and vistas...

But the very best thing about our honeymoon was 10 days alone with my best friend.

Thank you for an amazing honeymoon in paradise and two perfect years of marriage. I will cherish the memories we have created for as long as I live.

You have given me the greatest gift on earth and I can't wait to go on our next adventure together... parenthood!

Summer {Part 2}

2010-09-23T12:51:00.003-04:00

bumblebees bzzzzzz'd

lazy dogs lay

Butterfly flowers...

And succulants grew...

In my secret garden

laying poolside

with twin babies

toy cars vroooming

and a quick trip to the city by the bay

All good things must come to an end. Goodbye Summer, 2010.

Hello, Fall. I'm ready for you.

Conspiracy Theory

2010-09-22T14:38:00.000-04:00

I think there is a conspiracy between the U.S. government and Hollywood to try and sway the general tv watching public into not having children. Maybe our government sees another baby boom coming and thinks it will be too much on our fragile economy to handle?

I turned on the tv last night and a movie called Motherhood was playing. Have you seen it? It's an Uma Thurman movie, not her best by a long shot. The jist of the movie is how to balance motherhood, self, career, and marriage, and how it's just not possible without becoming a crazy neurotic bitch. I stopped watching after stay at home mom, Uma, has a particularly bad day and decides she is going to run away. She jumps in her station wagon, lights a cigarette, pops in a tape of something she would have listened to before having children, and heads for New Jersey.

Maybe there have always been movies like this and I'm just now paying attention to it because I am in my child bearing years (at least according to society and the ladies in the grocery check-out line. Not according to science. Science would've liked me to be done having children and expecting my first grandchild). But I remember movies like Baby Boom and tv shows like Murphy Brown, portraying mother's as strong women who balanced career and motherhood.

Anyway, back to the point. There is a lot of stuff out there right now that focuses on women's lack of control of self once becoming a mother. There's a whole genre of "mommy bloggers" that focus primarily on how hard it is having kids.

Another movie that scared me to death: Marley and Me. I was so distracted by Jennifer Aniston and her tirades and fighting with her husband after having kids that I forgot the movie was about the dog. I'm sure there is some truth to all of this but isn't there a good side to having kids, too? Where are the shows about that???

Schools should stop preaching abstinence and instead take their students to the local movie theatre for a little show and tell. The scene in Marley where Owen Wilson's character stays in his car longer than necassary after a day at work because he doesn't want to go in and face his family was enough to make me want to practice abstinence!

A girl can dream

2010-09-22T11:20:00.000-04:00

Now that Markus is based in San Francisco and reality is setting in that we may be moving to the city by the bay, my new obsession is to look at craigslist apartment ads in our favorite neighborhoods. Most in our price range are studio and 1 bedrooms. Which, after owning our 3 bedroom home for the last 3 years, can be a little depressing. We will think of it as the "living bohemian" chapter in our marriage. It will be quaint and kitchy. I envision myself scouring flea markets and buying local produce from the farmers' market on the weekends. And, on the upside, I will have no problem decorating an apartment that small!

But after laying my eyes on this listing over at Hooked on Houses, I'm not sure I can downsize. I'm thinking we need to start playing the lotto!

The size is a little garish for my taste. I don't think we need our own basketball court or au pair suite. Our children can play basketball at the Y and our au pair can stay in one of the 7 bedrooms ;) But I will take that kitchen, the views, and the fabulous decor and attention to detail. The molding alone makes my heart skip a beat. Not to mention the panoramic view of San Francisco from almost anywhere in the house.

More photos can be found on the properties web site.

There's an island way out in the sea

2010-09-21T21:36:00.025-04:00

In June

we slipped down to the islands

and spent a few days in paradise

It was nice.

Slow down and everything you are chasing will come around and catch you. ~John De Paola

Good night, moon

Summer 2010 {Part 1}

2010-09-14T20:22:00.018-04:00

A baby was born, Ella Josephine Fowlkes.

Markus is a natural with babies. Can't you tell from his posture in this picture? He also shaved his head without telling me. I wasn't a fan but it grew back quickly :)

We did some yard work to get ready for summer. I forgot how green our grass can be. Oh, and check out the fence. Markus pressure washed it, and everything else that he could get his hands on. And I finally convinced Markus to re-stain our deck. It was reddish brown and I HATED it. Now it's a beautiful green and I LOVE it. It's such a beautiful color. I wish I could paint the house green!

We threw a party on Memorial Day. The adults played ladder golf

Girls vs. Boys

And the kids had fun with the water toys

Christian, Weber, Capri - Age 2

The Morales twins were also there. Look at those eyelashes!

There was a day in July where we didn't think we would see this guy again. Charlie got out of the back yard and spent the night in puppy jail. This was the photo we used for his missing poster. It makes me really happy to look at this photo, now that he is back home.

We got out on the golf course once. Markus has such a better swing than me. I'm just worried about hitting the ball. I don't really care where it goes as long as it's up.

We went to see the Flying Squirrels game for Father's Day. That's the name of our new baseball team. Their motto is "have fun, go nutz".

Weber is telling Markus "Dude, this is my Sasa, Step off".

But that's okay because his sister stole my man later in the game. Twin power.

≈

Whew, I'll have to finish this up tomorrow, it's almost my bedtime. I took more photos than I thought and I'm only in July. Stay tuned for part duex...

Do you wanna?

2010-09-13T21:28:00.003-04:00

That sentence makes our dogs go crazy! It doesn't matter what you say afterwards, they know they are going for a walk. It's the same thing everyday; Charlie has to sit and be quiet before we put his leash on. Meeko, not so much. The saying "you can't teach a dog new tricks" was invented because of Meeko.

So, you would think after almost 2 years of going on walks, Charlie would hear "Do you wanna" and immediately sit down. But, without fail, he acts like a crazy animal. I love it and hate it all at the same time.

What a goof!

10 things I love about Fall

2010-09-10T11:57:00.000-04:00

10. Sleeping with the windows open
9. toasting marshmellows & snuggling to keep warm by a fire
8. Dexter, Dexter, Dexter!
7. Mums, winter pansies, & asters
6. Halloween
5. Apple picking {& pie eating}
4. Fall back
3. Boots, sweaters, & jeans
2. Pumpkin patch {& carving}
1. Fall Foilage

What are you looking forward to with the change of seasons?

Goodbye, Summer

2010-09-10T11:30:00.006-04:00

I have been reading a lot of posts about the end of summer and how much fun everyone had. I am not one of those people. Summer is usually my favorite season and I look forward to it starting December 26th. But this summer was off. I was restless. It was too hot and I couldn't find my grove. August was especially awful. I'm glad it's over. I'm hoping September will bring better weather, a better mood, and more time with family & friends.

Life has changed since the beginning of the summer. My perspective is different. One of the things that has changed is Markus' job. We started the summer in anticipation of him landing the job, and when it finally came my nerves set in. All of the what ifs and daydreaming about a new life together became a reality. Reality is waaaaaay different from daydreaming. Be careful what you wish for. It's scary and a little lonely thinking about uprooting our family and moving to California. But I'm also really excited and looking forward to a change. Our life has felt a little stagnant the last year and I am open to new possibilities and challenges. I just keep trying to remember that wherever you go, there you are. I think that is the key to making this move successful. I have to remember that if I am not happy with myself then I will not be happy with myself in a new place.

And so I am going to take the change of seasons and the change of our new life as a time to work on myself and figure out what is making me unhappy. I don't like feeling restless and not being able to sit still and relax. I did not read one book this summer. Not one. I didn't have the patience to sit down and relax enough. I didn't work on the house or take pictures. I didn't cook or entertain. I hardly went for walks with the dogs or did yoga. I wanted to go to concerts and I didn't see one. I blamed it on not having anyone to go with but I could have made more of an effort. And I certainly didn't blog because I didn't have anything nice to say. Looking back I'm not really sure what I did. And that makes me sad that I wasted what could be our last summer in Virginia (at least for awhile) doing things I can't even remember. I think when we got the news of Markus' new job I just froze and stopped living. It was like the news was too much to take and so I just didn't do anything.

So I'm getting all of this out in the open so I can make a conscious effort to work on doing things I enjoy and making myself content again. And hopefully the change will do me good. If I'm not back to blogging and taking photos in a few weeks, send chocolate and anti-depressents ;)

Seems like a no brainer

2010-07-23T17:24:00.006-04:00

You can get with this:

Or you can get with that:

I think I'll get with this 'cause this is where it's at.

Easier said than done.

I had no idea when we visited San Francisco last August that we would be back so soon. Nor in my wildest dreams did I think we may be moving to the city by the bay so soon. It was fun to walk around the neighborhoods and dream about "what if" but now it may be our reality and that is blowing. my. mind.

I'm going out to SF in a few weeks to scout out the neighborhoods, see what we like, and see where we can afford (If Markus makes 1 more Oakland comment I might punch him in the face). I have a feeling we will like much more than we can afford. But that's okay because I think I will fall in love with the city and spend most of my time exploring.

I'm really looking forward to this trip. There will be no visiting tourist attractions or running around trying to squeeze it all in. I plan on just hanging out and living as if we were residents of the city. I hope that's the way it's going to go, anyway. And I'm also hoping to escape the heat. It will be nice to be outdoors and not feel like you are in a sauna.

Oy!

2010-07-20T10:09:00.002-04:00

Have you ever wanted to take the clock and stop everything around you so you can stand still and just think for a minute? Catch your breath and look around to see what needs to be done. That's how I am feeling lately. There are so many things I want to do but not enough time. But I don't even know if that's true. I think there is time to do everything I want to do, I'm just wasting it.

When I was younger I could waste an entire weekend sleeping in until noon, watching tv, ordering take-out, and not showering until it was time to go out for the night. Now I feel lazy and unproductive if I sleep past 8 a.m. on the weekends. If I don't check off everything on my to do list by Saturday afternoon and add some more stuff for Sunday. I feel like if it is nice outside (and by nice I mean below 95 degrees and not raining) I feel like I HAVE to be outside doing something. What I don't exactly know, but I know it's too pretty of a day to be sitting inside watching tv. So lately I have tried to slow things down a bit, not stress if the house isn't clean and the laundry all done. Sit on the sofa and watch a movie, in the middle of the day!

And it feels good, but I still hear the voice in the back of my head telling me the laundry needs to be done, the house needs to be cleaned, and for god's sake woman, the sun is out - go do SOMETHING.

I want to do so many things this summer because before I know it summer will be over. And this week is the last week of summer I will have with M. He leaves for training on Sunday and when he finishes summer will be ending and he will be practically living in another city - on the other side of the country. Oy!

How do you cram the whole month of August into 5 days? I don't want to spend his last 5 days on the couch watching tv or doing chores. And selfishly, I don't even want to share him with other people. I want to stop everything and do all the things we never got around to doing this summer.

Let the FUN begin!

2010-06-20T10:06:00.003-04:00

Ahhhhhhhhhhh! I just turned in my last assignment for this semester and I'm D O N E! Hallelujah, praise the Lord, pass the plate around one. more. time!

It has been a very challenging 6 weeks. Every weekend has been full of homework. I feel like all I have done is read and write and edit and crop. I'm looking forward to having the summer "off" and returning to my normal activities, like writing on this blog without the fear of my professor returning it with red marks and negative comments.

I hope y'all are already enjoying the summer and have something fun planned! We are working on it...

Finding Inspiration

2010-06-14T13:03:00.004-04:00

I needed to be reminded of this today. Sometimes I forgot that I can't control everything that is happening in my life. I just need to go with the flow and see where the road takes me.

I'm Baaaaack

2010-06-02T10:59:00.003-04:00

Hello, Internet! Did you miss me? I didn't mean to take such a long break from blogging. It just sort of happened. I signed into my blogger account this morning and realized my last post was my 99th post. Kind of odd I decided to stop there. So this is my 100th post. Pretty neat to think I have strung together enough thoughts to make up 100 posts on the wall. And, I think my first post was sometime last April so it's been {off & on} a year of blogging. Woohoo! I haven't looked back to see what I was blogging about last year. I don't think enough time has passed so I'll save that for a rainy day sometime in the future.

I think part of the reason I haven't blogged in awhile is because I'm constantly writing for school and I've gotten a little burnt out. I don't really enjoy writing. I do, however, enjoy blogging. I don't have to worry about punctuation or perfect grammer on the blog. Everyone who knows me knows I am bad at that and math. So, if you have come here for perfect spelling and interesting math problems, you have come to the wrong blog. Sorry, folks.

I'm also still grieving over the loss of my Grandmother. And I know that has something to do with why I haven't felt the need to blog. I've been working through my grief internally and haven't really felt like sharing much of that with anyone, except my husband. He gets me and has been so helpful in this process.

And lastly, school, work, chores, and life in general, has been kicking my butt a little. I am not superwoman. I cannot be everywhere at once doing everything that is asked of me or expected of me (most of those expectations are my own because I want to be superwoman). I know a lot of women struggle with this balance. I am learning to say no, take time for myself, prioritize, and slow down, a little at a time. When did life get so busy?!?

I hope to catch up in the next few days on the stuff that is worth mentioning. Before I forget the details of our life, I would like to document them on this here blog. So that when I am old and senile I will be able to remember all the little things that make life great.

Dear Blog

2010-03-24T13:22:00.009-04:00

Dear Blog,

I don't know where to start so I guess I'll start at the beginning. I have been feeling a little overwhelmed lately and I'm not quite sure why. Nothing much has changed. I remember a few weeks ago feeling like life was great. I was getting back to a good routine of work, school, exercise, and catching up with friends and family. I had an exceptionally good day on Friday, the 5th. I went for a run with my friend Susan and had a great weekend planned ahead with Markus finally home! The weather was starting to warm and spring was just around the corner

And then my beloved Grandmother had a stroke on Saturday and by Thursday she was gone. I tried to compartmentalize everything by saying it was expected, she was 86 and had been suffering from cancer for quite some time. I knew there wasn't much time left with her but you can never prepare yourself for how quickly they deteriorate before death. I have seen it before with other family members who have succumb to cancer but never with someone I was so close with.

The days between her death and the funeral are a blur. And then I went back to my normal life but it's not normal with a loved one who has been there for 30 years suddenly gone.

I don't feel that immense sadness you feel when you hear about a disaster or see sick children on television. Which is what I thought I should feel. But I do feel something that is constant and every once in awhile it rears it's head to say she is gone. Or something will trigger a memory and then it comes rushing forward. I guess this is what grief is like.

Sometimes I feel so angry that I want to scream or hit something. And sometimes I feel restless and can't think of one place I want to be other than with her. I find solace in knowing that she is in a better place and with loved ones who have passed. But I also find myself being selfish and wanting my grandmother back. It makes me so sad that my children will not know her. She was the most amazing grandmother and hopefully some of her traits will live on in me. They are very big shoes to fill and I find myself thinking of ways to be more like grandmama everyday.

I also find myself saying the serenity prayer a lot these days too, which helps to keep things in perspective and realize there is something greater than me.

Thanks for listening. It feels really good to get all of that out of me.

This is one of my favorite more recent pictures of her at my wedding. She was so happy to be there and was always smiling.

Music Monday: Oh Canada

2010-02-15T10:38:00.013-05:00

If you know me very well, then you know I have an affection for all things Canadian. Their accent, music, and Candice Olsen are enough to make want to visit. But after watching the Olympics this past weekend and learning even more about our friendly neighbor to the north, I feel a trip to Canada in our near future.

There are so many artists from Canada that I love so I thought I would feature some on Music Monday in honor of the Vancouver Olympics going on right now (so excited!).

Sarah Mclachlan - She was my first Canadian love. Her album, Fumbling Towards Ecstasy, which was released in 1993, is still one of my all time favorite albums.

Fiest - Most recognize this artist from the iPod Nano commercial that featured the song, 1,2,3,4 off of her latest album, The Reminder. But it's her sophomore album, Let It Die, that grabbed my attention. I love the song Mushaboom about the village with the same name in Novia Scotia and the simple life of raising a family and tending to the home.

Leonard Cohen - K.D. Lang, another great Canadian talent, performed his song Hallelujah during the Vancouver opening ceremony. But my first exposure to Cohen was through his album Ten New Songs, and I have been hooked ever since.

Great Lake Swimmers - They had me at Ongiara. It's a little bit Canadian folk and a little bluegrass. Perfection.

The Be Good Tanyas - Their albums Chinatown and Hello Love are in heavy rotation at our house. I wish they would put another album out so I could have a chance to see them in concert. Again, another blend of Canadian folk and Southern bluegrass, which seems to be my favorite combo right now.

Thank you, Canada! I hope to visit your beautiful country very very soon.

Snow Day{s}

2010-02-08T16:39:00.010-05:00

If you're bored and it's snowing

2010-02-05T20:39:00.014-05:00

Clap your hands {clap, clap}.

That is probably true for anyone reading this on the East Coast. I don't ever remember getting back to back snow storms this far south. But here it is, the 2nd Friday in a row where it's snowing and we are stuck inside. We aren't accustomed to this kind of weather. I'm sure if we were in the North or Midwest we would be out driving around, going about our business. But since I live in the South and just the mention of snow cancels school and sends everyone running to their nearest grocery for milk and bread, I am inside going STIR CRAZY.

And what to do when you are stir crazy and ~~can't~~ don't want to go outside? Catch up on homework? Nah, that's for nerds. Finish home projects? Bah, that's for the birds. Cook, bake, and eat your way out of boredom? Now you're talking!

Last week I came down with a terrible stomach bug and couldn't eat a real meal for FIVE days. So, when it started snowing Friday night and we were stuck inside all day Saturday, I took that as a sign to make up for lost time. I went into the kitchen around 10 a.m and came out sometime around 7 p.m. covered in flour, sugar, and grease.

Some of the things that came out of the kitchen were:

Ina Garten's Tri-Berry Muffins*

Meyer Lemon and Ricotta Pancakes w/ creme fraiche* (adapted from the Fairmont in San Francisco)

French Chocolate Bark (adapted from Ina Garten)

that we turned into s'mores (that goes great with red wine!)

And last, but not least...Oreo Balls*

I snapped this picture before they were dipped in white chocolate, which I forgot to take b/c I was too busy stuffing my face full of sugar. Can you tell I had a sweet tooth last week? That's what happens when I can't eat for FIVE days. And also why I don't get diets. Telling myself I can't have something only makes me want it more.

With snow in the forecast for this weekend, we thought we would try something other than cooking to keep us from getting bored.

Drinking!

Markus came up with a great concoction of Tequila**, lime, and ginger ale. It's delicious and smooth goes down.

*e-mail me if you would like recipes I didn't link to. I was too ~~drunk~~ lazy to type them up.

**I'm not allowed to drink Tequila unless under constant supervision and away from the general public, so this is a real treat!

Music Monday: Citizen Cope

2010-02-01T14:03:00.005-05:00

Markus and I are going to see this band play Saturday night at The National. His music is a blend of reggae, hip hop, blues, and southern beatnik. Very nice music to listen to, especially on a warm, sunny day.

Enjoy!

December highlights

2010-01-31T19:06:00.024-05:00

On the eve of the 2nd month of 2010, I thought I would post some of my favorite pictures from the last month of 2009. Better late than never!

We did a lot of lying around by the fire.

And being couch potatoes because the giant pillow on the floor is clearly not as comfortable!

We even made it of the sofa and got dressed up for a holiday party for a Jamaican reunion

We baked cookies with Brynn, Grant, and Abbey

And had our first snow of the season

And after a slow, snowy start, finally made our way up North for our annual Hakkarainen Christmas in Brookside

Where it was more napping and relaxing. This was Charlie's first trip to Heikki's. He really made himself at home!

Meeko stuck close to his favorite buddy

And last but certainly not least, we snuck in a romantic getaway to my favorite city

All of that travel and holiday cheer cost a lot so we sent Charlie off to work

And that is our month in a nutshell. I hope to have more pictures up on our Flickr account soon.

Stay tuned!

Wetting the whistle

2010-01-21T15:21:00.001-05:00

Just because I haven't personally blogged, doesn't mean I haven't been reading them. Especially design blogs. I just can't help it, it's in my blood. Here are some things I have found to tide me over until I can work on my own home again. Hope you find them as inspiring and mouth watering to look at as I do.

Have you seen the movie, It's Complicated? I was in awe over the set design and was anxiously awaiting for Julia over at Hooked on Houses to do a Movie Monday on the set. She dug up a few visual stimulating photos to hold us over until the DVD comes out later this year. You can check it out here.

Don't tell my husband, but I already have ideas for a kitchen like this in our next house (and maybe our current, shhhhh).

And just today I saw a post over at Design Sponge on a swoon worthy office. Who wouldn't want to come to work everyday with digs like this?

And my favorite Interior Designer/blogger/new mama, Erica over at Urban Grace Interiors blogged about Birmingham Architect Bill Ingram's lake house that was featured in Cottage Living (it has also been featured in many other publications, check out the links under publications for more pictures and details). I fell in love with the play of bold textures, dark wood, and soft hues immediately.

And those striped hardwood floors are making me consider painting ours. Hmmm...

p.s. I never know the proper way to give credit to images/ideas found on other web sites. My purpose is to share, not offend so If this is your work and you do not want it displayed, please let me know.

p.p.s. We are learning idioms in my strategic reading class. Don't you like how I have incorporated it into my day-to-day living? My teacher would be so proud ;).

I'm baaaack

2010-01-04T21:25:00.009-05:00

Hi there! It's been awhile. I didn't mean to take a vacation from blogging but it just sort of happened. December, as it usually does, got a little hectic. We had a great month full of parties, family, travel, and friends. I wanted to document it on the blog but the days started to run together and before I knew it, it was 2010.

The longer I was away, the harder I found it to come back. Not because I don't enjoy blogging but I just didn't know where to start. I haven't taken very many photographs over the last month. I wasn't really in the mood. I do have some photos of Christmas to put up but I can't find the cord that connects the camera to the computer. Oh well. I'll eventually get there. And, I haven't done much to the house as far as decorating. I'm on a hiatus after all the fall renovations we did. Which, I also need to blog about but want to do so with before and after pictures (see above sentence). I have been cooking A LOT. I go through phases and that is the phase I am in now. I have had shorter work days this month and have been using the extra time in the afternoons in the kitchen. I go back to work full time next week and I am really going to miss my extra "free" hours. I didn't document any of the items I whipped up but was generous to share with a few friends and family.

I guess I have just been enjoying living my life off-line. It's nice to do every once and awhile! We will see how much longer it lasts now that I will be in the office for a full 40 hours a week.

So, stay tuned to see what's next.

Grateful

2009-12-04T11:01:00.003-05:00

I'll admit it now, I was kind of dreading Thanksgiving. I'm not sure why. I am a "get in full spirit of the holidays" kind of gal. I try to enjoy every moment between Thanksgiving and Christmas because it always seems to go by too fast. I think part of my problem was that we had tackled too many projects around the house in the weeks leading up to Thanksgiving. My house was a wreck. I had too many things to do and not enough time (don't we all!). But the night before my father-in-law was to arrive, the Thanksgiving Gods sent me some help. Markus came home from a trip and my mom spent the night with us. We got everything done in one night and as soon as my house was put back in order I felt much calmer. Amazing how a clean house can somehow clear away my bad mood. Markus did the grocery shopping, and all I had to do was cook. Something that also always helps me get out of a funk. I think I was destined to be a house wife (hint hint).

The whole Thanksgiving weekend was wonderful and I had many blessings to be thankful for. I was thankful that my father-in-law was able to come for the 3rd annual Hakkarainen Thanksgiving dinner. We look forward to his twice annual visits all year long. My Aunt and cousin surprised us by coming up from Florida for the weekend. I had not seen them since the spring and our visits are always too quick. I'm also thankful that I got to see both sides of my family on Thanksgiving. And it wasn't nearly as stressful as it used to be when I was a child. And last but not least, I'm very thankful for the time I got to spend with my husband. He was home almost the entire month of November and I enjoyed every moment of it. Even when I had to change his bandage and pack his wound.

And I'm especially looking forward to the next month and celebrating the holidays with family and friends. I LOVE Christmas, more than ever now that I have my own family to spend it with and a home to decorate and fill with holiday spirit. I owe that to the Chenault side of my family. They were all about traditions and creating memories. And now I get it. When I think back on the holidays, it's always the things we did every year as a family that stick out in my head. Decorating cookies, having tea with Santa at Miller & Rhodes, going to see the Nutcracker ballet, and Christmas dinner at my grandparents house. And now Markus and I get to create our own traditions and memories. Something that makes me very excited!

Planning

2009-11-24T11:36:00.006-05:00

I'm feeling a little overwhelmed this holiday season and I'm not exactly sure why. I was really starting to get excited last week while r.s.v.p.-ing to parties and coordinating cookie baking with the kids. But then something happened and now I am procrastinating. I'm supposed to be planning our Thanksgiving menu as I type and shopping on my lunch break (oh, and working. Today is a work day). But I just can't bring myself to look through recipes. So instead I created this list thinking it would help jump start me into getting ready for Turkey day.

I got the idea of placing all of my grocery items into categories from my favorite chef, Ina Garten. It proves very efficient when at the store. And added more categories in the extra space to help organize all the other tasks that are usually involved when grocery shopping. Like dry cleaning, post office, etc. I hope it helps me get my butt in gear, or else we will be eating frozen pizza instead of a Thanksgiving feast.

Music Monday: The Human Thing

2009-11-23T13:39:00.005-05:00

I love The Be Good Tanyas. If you look at their web site, it describes them as groovy, bluesy, bluegrass women. Perfect description. This song is one of my favorites to dance to. It's off of their last album, Hello Love. I wish they would make another album and go on tour. I would be there in a heartbeat.

The video is made from thousands of drawings by an artist out of New Mexico named Kate Brown. I can't imagine how much time it took but the finished product is amazing!

Get up and dance, I dare ya!

No design blogs for me for a long, long time

2009-11-16T15:47:00.008-05:00

Or I'm pretty sure this will be our first and last anniversary we celebrate as a happy married couple. Let's just say Markus does not share my enthusiasm for home projects and decorating. He tolerates a few here and there, but I think I have crossed the line. I met him at the hardware store this morning for what has to be the 10th time in a week (5 trips were in a 24 hour window) to buy some trim paint. And as we were saying our goodbyes he told me this is the last time he is buying paint for this house and I had better like all the colors. Markus does not use strong words often, but when he does I know I better take notice. I love you, babe!

Ahem, so it all started last weekend with an idea to wrap up the upstairs project we started last February. We needed to paint the back of a book shelf, hang a few items I purchased at IKEA last spring, and spruce up a (very) small bathroom. This included taking down wallpaper, painting, and replacing brass fixtures with brushed nickel. Sounds fairly easy, right? No construction or major renovating involved. I won't bore you with details but let's just say it sounded A LOT easier on paper.

This snowballed into projects in almost all rooms of our house and a lot more trips to the hardware store, contracting my mom and her husband for some painting and carpentry projects, and my dad for some plumbing issues. Lesson to learn for ~~future~~ opp (other peoples projects): Have a game plan BEFORE you start, write a comprehensive list of what you will need from the hardware store, and most importantly finish one room before moving on to another. However, I have a feeling if we had done all of this before starting Markus would have said no. Isn't there a saying "it's better to ask for forgiveness than permission"? Please forgive me, babe!

Late Wednesday night, after painting for 5 hours, I had the idea to get out of town for our anniversary. We both needed a break. Markus especially since he has been home 24/7 for the last 2 weeks. My mom ~~had no choice~~ offered to stay and watch the dogs while they finished the dining room. So we packed up Saturday morning and headed to Charlottesville. It was perfect and much needed. We came back a little less stressed and ready to finish what we had started.

Thank you to my wonderful husband who has tolerated all of my ideas over the last few weeks. I promise to cool it, at least until after the holidays ;) I will even do all of the holiday decorating while you are out of town so you don't have to see any boxes or put up the tree. What a deal!

p.s. I can't wait to share all of the renovation details on the blog once we finish. Before and after pics to come...

Manic Music Monday

2009-11-16T14:44:00.002-05:00

This song pretty much sums up the last few weeks around our house. Ahhh, the 80's :o)

One Year

2009-11-15T09:18:00.008-05:00

I can't believe it has already been one year since our wedding. The memories of those two weeks are seared in my memory, and I hope they always will be. I remember the day we left for Jamaica like it was yesterday. We headed down before our guests so we could have a few days to ourselves. I remember the rush of excitement I felt at the airport as I waited with our bags while Markus parked the car. I kept thinking "when I come back to Richmond I will be Mrs. Hakkarainen". I carried my dress on the flight, something I'm sure they see all the time. But the flight attendant still made a fuss over me and I was so excited to tell her we were going to Jamaica to get married. She congratulated me and at the end of the flight made an announcement to everyone who the brides were on the plane. There were 3! So. Much. Excitement.

One year later and I am still excited. Excited that we found each other and were able to make it to that beach with all of our friends and family to witness our vows. Excited because we have had such an amazing first year together. Excited about what the future holds for us. And excited to grow our family and grow old together.

I have so many memories of that day but I think Tisha, our wedding photographer, sums it up best in this video she made for us. We watched it this morning and it put a huge smile on my face. Her photographs will always be there to help fill in the gaps when memory fails. And for that I am forever grateful. Thank you, Tisha!

Happy 1 year anniversary to my husband. You are more than I ever dreamed for. I couldn't have asked for a better family and best friend.

Now, on to the baby making (JUST KIDDING!) :o)

Halloween

2009-11-12T15:53:00.004-05:00

As usual a little late. But better late than never. I have been experiencing technical difficulties with our Flickr account so it took a few tries to get the pics for this post updated.

Sooo...Halloween. One of my favorite holidays. I've never thrown a Halloween party so I thought this year would be a good time to start with all the kiddies in our life. Just about every one of my friends has a kid and what is cuter than kids dressed up on Halloween? Nothing!

Cute Yoda, I am

Suzi offered to help host the party since her house is kid friendly. And, they had an awesome swing set installed just days before the party. And, Suzi ended up doing most of the leg work because I had a paper due and Markus' surgery days before. She planned a great menu and all kinds of fun games for the kids to play. It worked out really well, for me at least. Thanks, Suzi!!! ;)

The party itself was a lot of fun but seeing all the kids in their costumes was great. We had 16 kids and 28 adults. And lots and lots of cute costumes! (can you guess why Halloween is my favorite holiday?)

Princess Brynn
The "real" Spider Man
Emma the Black Cat

And the ~~only~~ best family costume at the party, the Fatigantes from the 50's.

I had so much fun at the party that I wore myself out and didn't go out for the grown-up version of Halloween. Oh well, maybe next year!

World Champs!

2009-11-05T10:00:00.008-05:00

In case you haven't heard, the NY Yankees won the World Series last night. Which apparently makes them world champs (even though the mlb is national?).

Either way, Markus is one happy kid today and I get my tv and couch back!

Go Yankees!

Read this book!

2009-11-02T15:46:00.005-05:00

This is a little deep for a Monday but it's something that has been weighing heavy on my mind for awhile. Last night I finished reading a book that I had picked up this summer on a whim and it really stirred something inside of me. The book is called Same Kind of Different As Me and was written by Ron Hall and Denver Moore. It's a book about an unlikely friendship between a wealthy art dealer and a homeless man and the woman who brings them together. The story is amazing in so many ways but what really spoke to me was the honest way Ron Hall tells his side of the story. How he is so honest about his prejudices and stereotypes of homeless people in America. How he thinks he is above them and is doing them a favor by lending his time and bestowing his wisdom and christian ways to them. And in the end, it is Denver Moore, the homeless cotton picker from Louisiana, who teaches him about life. I wish everyone would read this book and see the world through Denver Moores eyes.

I work in a neighborhood that has a large population of homeless people. I have passed them everyday for the past four years on my way to my office. I know their names, I know their stories, and I know they are good people who have had harder lives than most of us will ever know. I see how people pass them like they are trash and it disgusts me. I have no respect for humans who do not treat other living beings with care and compassion, no matter their differences. There is no such thing as someone below you or above you. Only someone different. And Ron Hall and Denver Moore are the shining example of this.

Go read this book! And the next time you pass a homeless person begging for money or a bite to eat, take a look at them as a person rather than an annoyance. Maybe say hello and ask them how they are instead of telling them to get lost. It means so much to the men out on the street that I say hello and bring them leftovers or clean clothes every once in awhile. It's not much, it isn't going to change their lives. But it does let them know they are worth something. And self worth is a lot to someone who doesn't have material belongings.

p.s. - If you live in the Richmond area, I am still collecting clothing and non-perishable food for my guys on Second Street. They really appreciate everything I have collected so far and it puts a great big smile on my face when I see them in clothes I have given them. Warm clothes/blankets for winter would be greatly appreciated!

I'm going to hell in a hand basket

2009-10-30T13:42:00.006-04:00

In no way am I saying this video resembles Markus. Men just have a different way of dealing with things than women. Poor little bunnies.

On The Mend

2009-10-28T21:04:00.007-04:00

If I have been out of touch with some of you the last week, I apologize. I feel like I have fallen down some sort of rabbit hole and I'm trying to move towards the light. The last week has been a challenge. I was sick and in bed for 3 days, pretty much by myself. Then went to work for 1 day before taking off more time to take care of Markus. He had surgery yesterday to remove a cyst on his backside. He went to the doctor appointments before the surgery alone so I was only given a little information beforehand. What I thought would be a very simple procedure that would not last more than a few days has turned into something a bit more complicated. I knew something was up when the doctor came out after surgery to give me the blow by blow and asked "if I worked outside the home" and had I "taken some time off". I only planned to be out yesterday for the actual surgery but after the good pain meds wore off last night, I realized we were in a little deeper than originally planned.

It's so hard to watch someone you love in pain and there isn't much you can do. And in my opinion everything always seems worse at night. The pain meds they prescribed were not helping at all. Markus would barely fall asleep before waking up again moaning in pain. So finally around 6 a.m., after consulting with a friend of the family who is a nurse, we upped his dosage. It seems to be helping. Unless he needs to move, get up to use the bathroom, or change positions. He cannot put any pressure on his back so positions are limited. We go back to the doctor tomorrow to see how it's healing and so they can teach me how to dress the wound. I guess that's when the real fun begins! Google is not your friend when you have a not so pretty medical procedure and a morbid curiosity. We googled his cyst today and I almost tossed my breakfast. Let's hope my love for Markus overrides my weak stomach.

I would not want to leave you with that as your final image for this post. So I will show you some pictures we have gotten over the last week. Being sick has at least one benefit; time with your family. Here are some photos we have captured the last week. It pretty much sums up what we have been doing.

I made one of Markus' favorite dinners tonight. Lindsay and Carlos came to visit and brought his favorite dessert. AND his favorite team is playing game 1 of the World Series*. So I would say things are looking up around here :o)

*Update: So the whole "team playing in the World Series" didn't exactly turn out like I had hoped. But there is always tonight! Go Yankees :o)

I've fallen behind

2009-10-26T11:37:00.007-04:00

Last week was a bit rough. It started with the weekend and continued through the week. First I had a paper that was due Tuesday. I am a bit of a what you would call a procrastinator and didn't start working on my paper until Sunday. ALL DAY SUNDAY. But it was rainy and cold and I didn't mind staying in my pjs snuggled on the couch with a book (for my paper) and my laptop. Markus was there too, it was actually kind of nice to not have anywhere to be and use my brain for something other than work. I pretty much worked on the paper non-stop up until I turned it in on Tuesday at 2:22 p.m. 2 1/2 hours before it was due! And I called myself a procrastinator?!?

I went to class that night, turned in my paper, gave my presentation and felt relieved it was over. And then my relief turned into a slight fever and a sore throat. Which turned in to being sick the rest of the week and not getting out of bed until Saturday. No fun. Especially because Markus was gone most of this time and I was home alone. I did however catch up on my sleep and all the programs recorded in my DVR. I have watched enough tv to last me until Christmas.

So, while I get caught up on life, I leave you with this video for Music Monday.

Enjoy :o)

Two Weeks - Grizzly Bear from Gabe Askew on Vimeo.

Music Monday (on Tuesday) for my husband: Tarja Turunen

2009-10-20T15:32:00.007-04:00

There is this Finnish band called Nightwish that gets played a lot around our house. And there is a singer named Tarja that used to be in the band Nightwish, that often gets brought up in our house. Tarja is no longer in the band and has branched out on her own. Something about irreconcilable differences blah blah blah. Which is a shame because her lead singing was the only way I could tolerate listening to Finnish power metal.

Anyway, I always post music that I like but today I would like to post something that is very dear to Markus' heart, Tarja. She has an amazing operatic soprano voice that is paired with symphonic power metal.

Are you confused yet? I am. So let's just listen to her voice and you can understand what I mean.

Introducing Tarja:

An Apple A Day {will make you sick of apples}

2009-10-16T15:50:00.013-04:00

Last weekend Markus and I drove an hour west to Charlottesville, VA and visited the Carter Mountain Orchard, where it's apple season. It was the perfect fall day. The air was crisp, the sky was blue, and the apples were ripe for pickin' (some of them a little too ripe). It was nice to have an entire day to ourselves with no chores or errands to run.

We arrived in {tractor} style and was handed two bags so we could do our own picking. But first we hit up the concession stand where they had everything imaginable made from apples. I opted for an apple slushy and apple donuts while Markus stuck with the traditional cider. All were delicious.

Then we hit the orchard for some apple picking. There were all kinds of varieties but most of the apples from the bottom of the trees had already been picked. So I was designated apple picker. Markus would point to the ones he wanted (being the apple eater in the family) and I would throw them down to him to bag. Our system worked well. We came home with almost 50 apples! Hence the title of this post. Markus called today to say that he had eaten 10 apples in 3 days and was a little over apples. Guess that apple pie I planned on making tonight will have to eat itself :o)

See below for Grandmamma Chenault's applic pie recipe:

Follow Friday: Me!

2009-10-16T15:41:00.003-04:00

Sometimes I wonder if I'm writing to myself or if I have an audience outside of my husband. I know he checks the blog because he tells me but is there anyone else out there? Not that I mind writing to myself, I find it therapeutic. But I am just a tad bit curious of who is out there. If you are reading and you want to say hello, please do! And feel free to "follow" me so I can get to know my audience outside of my husband.

Happy Friday!

Sarah

The Boys

2009-10-15T13:10:00.004-04:00

Markus came home Saturday with these presents for the boys. Charlie wasn't quite sure what to make of the new visitors in his space. Meeko wanted nothing to do with them from the start and wanted out.

I can't tell if Charlie is scared of the toys or not. Either way, it kept him entertained through dinner!

Feeling Gray

2009-10-14T14:24:00.010-04:00

A peak inside of my neurosis, and why our house will never be "done"

It started a few weeks ago in class. We had a 10 minute break. I used 3 minutes of that break to use the bathroom and text Markus. The rest of the time I spent online looking at what I always look at when I'm bored, design blogs. I went to DS* and stumbled across this post and the gray/cream combination in this picture really caught my attention.

Oooh, aaaah, gray and cream!

And I thought to myself: "self, those colors sure would look nice with the ~~orange~~ clementine rug in your dining room". By that point the break was over and I had to pretend to be interested in IT management and Porters Five Forces. But all I could think about was turning my dining room into a gray/cream/clementine oasis.

So when I got home I googled "gray and orange design" into my iPhone. I found all kinds of inspiration. And before I knew it I had my Benjamin Moore paint fan out and was rummang though fabric samples I have collected over the years. I came up with this inspiration board and have been drooling over it ever since.

I also decided that I MUST. HAVE. picture frame wainscoting and crown molding added to the dining room.

So the next day I tell Markus "I think we should paint the dining room gray, add some molding, and install a new light fixture". And he asks if this is because of the orange rug. No, this is because I'm neurotic, and on a break in class I found a picture. Duh!

This is what keeps me up at night. I do not try to solve world hunger or end poverty but rather wonder what colors work best with my clementine rug and what fabric would be best for drapes. This is normal, right?

The last California post for a long time

2009-10-14T10:28:00.006-04:00

Ahhh, it saddens me that this will be the last time I write about California. There are so many other places to see in the world and yet I would be content just going back to visit this state. It's so beautiful. And, I saved the best for last: Monterey and Big Sur. Some of the prettiest country I have ever seen. If you have not gone, go!

We arrived in Monterey on Saturday and headed straight to the Monterey Bay Aquarium. I recommend going on a non-weekend day. It was CROWDED with lots and lots of strollers. But so worth the admission price. I took a ton of pictures . Under the sea creature are amazing and so colorful.

And that's just the inside. The outside is just as nice to look at. Here is the observation deck that overlooks the bay where you can see kelp gardens and kayaks.

And this is where I could kick myself. It was late in the afternoon when we got to the hotel so we decided to rent bikes and get the lay of the land. And dummy me didn't bring my camera! I missed some really good shots. The weather was gorgeous, the marine layer had burned off and the sun was shining bright. We rode through town, down to Lovers Point, and then headed toward the tide pools. I'm still mad at myself for not bringing the camera because the tide pools were amazing! Markus ventured into the very chilly water to explore what was under the sea, while I opted to lay on the rocks and soak up the sun.

The next day we drove down the coast and headed towards Big Sur. And I realized quickly that my fear of bridges is actually a fear of heights. The road down is very windy with a minimal line of sight and so close to the sea. But the views are so breathtaking that I (almost) didn't notice.

It was early and the marine layer was still around so the views looked something like this as we left Monterey.

But the fog started to burn off the further south we headed and the sun began to peak out

And eventually you could see everything. So beautiful and peaceful. We would pull off every few miles and just stand in awe of the landscape. I think this is what they mean when they refer to God's Country.

Big Sur is very rustic. A great place to go camping and get in touch with nature. There are several parks in the area. We chose Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park for hiking. They have redwoods and I hugged one. Does that make me a tree hugger? The hike up was a little tricky but the view from the top was worth it. So was the waterfall we passed.

We also went to Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park because I had read the views are amazing. They are. Most of the park is closed due to the 2008 wildfires but a small trial that leads to the waters edge is still open. You walk through this:

And on the other side is this:

There are signs posted everywhere warning not to go down to the beach. Many people have attempted and have needed rescuing. Probably worth it once you get down there. The land was once private property and the owners left it to California and requested the house be torn down and named after a local resident, JPB. Can you imagine LIVING on land that looks like this?

On the way back to Monterey we drove 17-mile drive and got a glimpse at the Pebble Beach golf club. We also got to see the Lone Cyprus Tree. Pretty cool looking.

I'll miss you California, hope to see you again soon!

Music Monday: Halloween Edition

2009-10-12T09:15:00.004-04:00

Can you tell that I am a little excited about fall and Halloween? So this morning I thought I would share a song that always puts a smile on my face. It's a fun song to dance to as well, if you are so inclined. Enjoy :)

Weekend Edition

2009-10-11T20:57:00.011-04:00

We had a fun weekend that I will blog about later but while the hubby watches football AND baseball, I thought I would blog about a typical Sunday in the H household.

We try to sleep in but the dogs wake us up around 7. Meeko wants to get in the bed and Charlie wants to go outside and play. Eventually Charlie makes his way into bed and then this happens:

We Markus has a strict no dog in bed policy, but we usually break the rule on weekends. How could you resist when they are this cute?

Then it's a walk around the neighborhood to settle the dogs down. Markus is working with Charlie on sitting on command on our walks. He pretty much has it down when he is in the house or yard (or if a treat is involved) but all bets are off when we are on a walk. This morning Meeko and I left Charlie and Markus and made it 2 blocks before Charlie sat. He is a little stubborn but so cute!

See, I know sit!

The rest of the day varies but Starbucks is usually involved.

I have been getting the house ready for fall. Pumpkins are out on the front porch and ready for carving. The planters have been filled with pansies and mums. And, we even got a new flag!

After chores it's time to settle down for some family time. Charlie loves his brother so much that he shares his bed.

Meeko, however does not like to share and usually kicks Charles out.

There, that's more like it.

What did I do?

Don't look at me, I was an only child for 10 years.

And now it's time for Dexter!

The End :o)

Follow Friday: The Macs

2009-10-09T11:56:00.005-04:00

Meet The Macs, your normal, young married couple just starting a family of their own. I have wanted to blog about Jess and Joel for a long time now. I have been reading their blog for over a year and feel like they are real friends. Some of you may have heard me talk about their daughter, Cora, and her very short, sweet life here on earth.

Jess is a mom who started a blog when she gave birth to chronicle her growing family and keep loved ones in the loop. Just like many of us. Except Jess's baby was diagnosed with cancer at 11 months old and died just 17 days later. And now Jess shares with all of her followers her pain and sorrow of losing a child, and how her and her husband are trying to pick up the pieces and be a normal family again.

A lot of the time Jess, understandably, wonders why this happened to her sweet Cora and questions God's purpose for taking their daughter away from them at such a young age. I can't imagine the grief that they have felt the last seven months and the void they will feel for the rest of their lives. But I am very thankful that Jess has shared her story with her readers. It is a reminder to everyone out there that life is short and precious and should not be taken for granted for one second.

Whenever I am having a rough day I think about Jess and all that she has overcome, and will overcome in her life, and I'm reminded that life is a gift. Her and her husband have a strong bond and an even stronger faith that is helping them through this.

On a happier note, Jess and Joel are expecting again! Baby Mac is due in December and I can't wait to follow their journey with this new bundle of joy. And I am so happy that Jess gets to go back to what God intended her to be, A stay-at-home-mom.

California: Wine Country

2009-10-07T16:08:00.010-04:00

It's been over a month since our last trip to California so I think I better try to wrap things up! Where does the time go???

Soooo...I left my heart in San Francisco and we headed north to wine country. We stayed in Sonoma at a really cute hotel that was walking distance from the city square. The hotel felt like a private residence with cottages tucked away behind gardens. Our room wasn't quite ready for us when we arrived but no worries! Their was a winery we walked to that had tastings. We each had a glass of white wine and then headed to the pool at our hotel to cool us off from the 90! degree heat (which is what we left back in Richmond).

That night we went to The Carneros Inn in Napa for dinner at Farm (pictured below). This place was amazing and if we could have swung the $800+ rooms per night, we would have stayed. But I was happy with drinks in the open air lounge and dinner under the stars. Dinner was our wedding gift from Chris and Alexa. Thanks guys, it was phenomenal! And, we liked this place so much that we stopped for donuts at the Boon Fly Cafe on our way out of town. And, I liked the donuts so much that I ate half a dozen in one sitting!
The next day we had a driver pick us up and we headed an hour north to the Dry Creek Valley in Sonoma County. A friend of ours in the restaurant business had arranged a private tour at one of her vendors wineries, Ridge. It was really cool to see how and where they make the wines as well as get a history of the vineyard. However, they poured us more than the normal tasting so when we left 1 1/2 hours later I was pretty tipsy!

Several people had suggested picking up lunch at the Dry Creek General Store so we headed there next. It looks like your average country store until you walk in and are met by gourmet cheeses, sandwiches, and products. They even have live bait and tackle, if you are so inclined! I was more interested in the grub.
Our driver knew of a winery close by that had great grounds for a picnic so we took our food to go and headed to Lambert Bridge Winery. Which as the names suggest, is located over a one lane bridge. Think Bridges of Madison County. As soon as we crossed the bridge we felt like we had gone back in time. Here is the building where they do the tastings, complete with it's own sleeping Saint Bernard (unfortunately not pictured).

The grounds were beautiful and the perfect place to have a picnic. I'm not smiling because I have food in my braces, not because I'm not having a good time.

I took these pictures at what we dubbed the Mafia Vineyard, because our driver told us they owned casinos in Las Vegas and had ties to the mafia. The wine wasn't that great but the views were spectacular.

Up next, we head down the coast and visit Monterrey and Big Sur. Some of the prettiest views I have ever seen.

Sala B: The early years

2009-10-06T14:45:00.022-04:00

I was surprised this weekend by my aunt, who was visiting from North Carolina, with photos of me as a child. I don't have any memories of my early years, I can only remember bits and pieces. And those are probably from stories I have heard and not from my own memory. For example, I have no recollection of the family trip we took to San Francisco when I was 3 but I have the faint memory of my aunt's house and riding a cable car. Here is the proof:

Riding the cable car in San Francisco with Dad. Circa 1982

Me, Grandmama Chenault, and Dad

I also don't have any memories of my parents together and have seen very few family photos of us as a threesome. I love this photo. My mom as a young mother and my dad is so handsome.

Outside Auntie Viv's house, San Francisco 1982

My Step mom remembers this photo being taken, she says I was leaning in to tell Grandmama Chenault a secret. I was probably four or five.

And this last one is a classic Sarah picture. I was visiting the same aunt who lived in San Francisco at her home in Asheville, NC. I'm wearing her clothes and jewelry (the glasses were unfortunately mine) and probably bossing her around to do something for me. That is her dog, Calliope in the background. I remember this trip vividly. I was plotting the entire visit on how I could stay longer. Auntie Viv's house was so much fun to visit.

Auntie Viv's house 1986

The name of my blog is another nostalgia left over from my childhood. It was a nickname given to me by my dad. Sala being my first name, Sarah, and my middle name, Lisette, combined into one. I was way ahead of the combining names trend in Hollywood! B stands for bird which is what my dad, brother, and sister still call me. He starting calling me bird because I would pucker my lips like one when I was hungry.

Op Ed: My Rant to Time Magazine, the FAA, and the American Public

2009-10-06T12:38:00.003-04:00

I read this story on Time magazines web site this morning and it really got my blood boiling. The article is titled "Too Tired to Fly: European Pilots Want Shorter Shifts". I'm not angry because European pilots want shorter shifts. I fully agree and support their argument. I'm angry because the writer focused strictly on the E.U. rules and hardly mentions the U.S. He cites in one sentence at the bottom of the article that after the Buffalo, NY crash, U.S. authorities worked quickly to overhaul U.S. flying time. That flight happened in FEBRUARY and NO rules have been changed. That is not working quickly when peoples lives are at stake.

It angers me that nowhere in the article do they cite FAA regulations for pilots and duty times. Markus can work 16 hour days with only 8 hours off in between flying. And, he can do it up to 6 days in a row. Think about how you would feel at your desk job working from 6 a.m until 10 p.m., and then having to be back at work at 6 a.m. And, they are sleeping in a hotel and eating airport food with no time to exercise and barely enough time to get 6 hours sleep. Then multiple that by 6 days. Would you want that person flying your plane? I wouldn't want them driving a vehicle on the road, much less flying a plane carrying 50+ passengers 3,000 miles above the earth.

Why doesn't our government do something about this? Media outlets focus on ticket prices and delays going up but hardly ever do you hear about the pilots and how they are working around the clock and putting lives at risk. And, it's even worse for the flight attendants. Their main purpose on being on a flight is to provide assistance to passengers in case of an emergency, not to provide peanuts and drinks.

Bottom line: time is money. The FAA has these rules on the books and until the American public demands better or more lives are lost, it will stay this way. I don't want to lose my husband because he was too tired to do his job. I don't need studies to tell me that 16 hour days are too long to work when you are FLYING A PLANE. So why does the FAA?

Music Monday: The Beatles

2009-10-05T16:29:00.005-04:00

We had a double date this weekend with one of our favorite couples, Suzi and Steve. And after dinner we went back to their house and played The Beatles Rock Band. Ever since I have had this song stuck in my head. My mother would sing this as a lullaby to me when I was a little girl, among many other Beatles songs so it has always had a different meaning to me than what I'm sure they originally intended. And since videos weren't really around when this song was recorded, this is the best I could do.

Happy Monday!

Elisalou Designs

2009-09-30T14:22:00.010-04:00

I came across this web site today and thought it was too cute not to share. The ladies over at Elisalou Designs have all kinds of bags and accessories that come in custom fabric AND they ship anywhere in the US. The only drawback is it takes 6-8 weeks to receive your product because everything is custom made. But it's never too early to start your Christmas shopping!

I think Meeko and Charlie would look precious with these dog collars. And, their messenger bag and camera strap would surely dress up my camera!

All photos courtesy of elisalou designs

Music Monday: Pete Yorn & Scarlett Johansson

2009-09-28T11:13:00.005-04:00

I'm not sure how I feel about artists overlapping in genres. Not many actors have been successful crossing over into the music world and vice versa. But I have to admit, the duo of Pete Yorn and Scarlett Johansson intrigued me. I saw Pete Yorn this summer and fell in love with his charismatic voice. And, Scarlett Johansson is one of my favorite actresses. Here is the track, Relator, off of their album Break Up. Starbucks is selling the album if you are interested in listening to more of this sexy duo.

What do you think? Does Ms. Johansson have what it takes to sing or should she stick to the big screen?

Follow Friday: Design Sponge

2009-09-25T11:40:00.006-04:00

Sometimes I have so many design ideas for our home in my head that I feel like it will explode. I'm constantly walking around the house thinking of ways I can improve. And there are web sites that specifically fuel this creative drive. I should probably stop looking at them until I can tackle all 837 current projects I have started. But I can't help myself, I'm a design cutter.

Design*Sponge is by far one of my favorite sites to check out. I especially love the before & after and DIY sections. D*S is to the blogosphere what Martha Stewart is for YSA (Yuppie Suburban America).

Here are some things I have been lusting after lately. They make my heart happy!

What are your favorite design blogs, just in case the 487 I read aren't cutting it?

*All photos are from Design Sponge

I Left My Heart In San Francisco

2009-09-23T16:15:00.005-04:00

We decided to take a trip to Northern California for my birthday this year. I was excited to get out of town with my sweetie and see more of the state I love. Our first stop was San Francisco. We arrived late on a Tuesday night and stayed through Thursday afternoon. Just enough time to fall in love with the city by the bay. Thank goodness we tacked on an extra day in SF at the end of our trip because I was not ready to say goodbye just yet.

The following day was my 30th birthday and by far one of the best I have had. We woke up early (me very early b/c I was still on East Coast time) and went downstairs for breakfast. I'm not a huge breakfast person but, oh my god was this something. Definitely the way to start your birthday. Markus had the buffet which looked pretty amazing but I couldn't pass up the lemon meyer and ricotta pancakes with crème fraîche. To die for. I would have taken a picture but I had already licked my plate and people were starting to stare.

The next several hours we spent wandering the streets of San Francisco. Falling more and more in love with each turn we took. The vistas were amazing. Everywhere you turn their is a view of the bay, rows and rows of beautiful houses, and hidden stairs. We loved the stairs because they usually led to somewhere even more fantastic than where you were just standing.

We stopped by the Ferry Building for lunch, another must do in San Francisco. It's a very cool sustainable indoor market with local shops and restaurants. We did a little shopping/sight seeing and then decided on Hog Island Oyster Co. for lunch. Most of the restaurants overlook the Bay and the Bay Bridge, another reason this place is so cool.

That night we had dinner reservations at Yabbies but the night was young so we headed to Top of the Mark for a champagne toast while watching the sun set. It has 360 degree view of the city, but about 5 minutes after we got there the fog rolled in. We couldn't see the building in front of us, much less the sun setting. But it was still cool, another must do in SF.

After dinner we decided to check out the Tonga Room, which is located in the ~~basement~~ lower level of our hotel. It was...interesting. A few people had told me they had gone so we thought why not? Every birthday girl deserves a birthday drink. Markus and I paid the $5/per person cover, got leid, and took our seats at a tiki covered table. Next to a swimming pool, with a floating stage, that had a "rainmaker" and a 40 something cover band. Uh huh, like I said, interesting.

The next day we were leaving San Francisco and heading to wine country but there were still a few things we needed to see (hello, the Golden Gate Bridge!). So on the way out of town we drove by the Painted Ladies, through Golden Gate Park, and down to see that bridge. I was in awe and couldn't believe I was standing next to the Golden Gate. Stunning! I wish we had had more time, and who knows, I might have even gotten the courage to walk across it. Maybe next time!

Directly across from San Francisco (over the bridge) are the quaint little towns of Sausolito and Tiburon. Who knew they aren't just a cookie and a Hyundai! And, If I didn't know better I would have thought we were somewhere in southern Europe. Colorful houses are nestled in the hills and beautiful boats sit in the crystal blue water of the bay. Markus and I joked that this would be where we would keep our sailboat if we lived in San Francisco. You know, when we weren't jet setting the world.

A trip to California wouldn't be complete without visiting our favorite residents. Markus' best friend Chris and his girlfriend, Alexa have helped us immensely with the planning of both of our trips out west, and it just so happens Alexa lives in SF. So our last night in town we met her for a drink at The Thirsty Pig and then tried out A16 for dinner. A recommendation of Chris', who was in LA that weekend. He was missed but I'm glad he shared his girlfriend with us because we had a great time out with a local.

I know I say this about a lot of places we visit in the U.S. but San Francisco is hands down my favorite city. But, don't tell New York that!

Summer: Recap

2009-09-22T08:58:00.002-04:00

I posted this blog at the beginning of the summer with a list of all the things I wanted to do in the summer of '09. So I thought now that fall is officially here and summer is just a memory it would be cool to look back and see how many things I can check off my list, and how many things I did that wasn't on the list.

I think I did pretty well in accomplishing my goals. There weren't as many lazy summer days as I would've liked to have had but that's okay. I also would've liked to get out in the garden more but it was so hot and the mosquitos were awful this year. Dang bugs!

There were some really cool things we did this summer that I didn't expect, like our trip to Northern California, which I plan on blogging about this week. I also got to see both of my sister-in-laws. Something that doesn't happen that often. And, there were a few home projects I tackled that I didn't expect to get around to. More on those later. Oh yeah, and I got braces!

All in all, I'd say it was a great summer!

Oh, The Places You'll Go!

2009-09-21T09:35:00.011-04:00

So, besides vacationing, what else have we been up to the last month? A lot! August was a very busy month. Let me see if I can remember it all. Okay, it's starting to come back to me. I remember a wedding, a lot of birthdays (including mine), starting school for the first time in 11! years!, and another vacation.

I'll start with the wedding of Misty and Ryan Cartwright in Nags, Head, NC. I drove down on a Friday night and got there in time to see the bride and groom before the big day. Misty was all smiles and so excited! The wedding took place on the beach and it brought back memories of our beach wedding, except it was sunny. Here is a shot I got of them right after the ceremony ended. I love the look on each of their faces. It fits their personalities so well.

Markus had to work that weekend so technically I did not have a date. However, there were a few single ladies that filled his shoes and we just as fun! The whole weekend was a blast, the Carwright/Morton's really know how to throw a party. Congratulations, Misty & Ryan!

There were also lots of birthdays to be celebrated. It appears I like to hang out with my sign; The Virgo. All 4 of the ladies pictured above had a birthday in August/early September. I turned the big 30! Which was a lot of fun, as most birthdays are. I like to spread it out and celebrate all week so the festivities started the weekend before my birthday with a couples dinner hosted by Suzi and Christina. Christina went all out with food, even making me a chocolate ganache and raspberry cake by scratch! The next night we had a girls night out at one of my favorite spots in my neighborhood. I was super excited to have everyone there, thanks ladies!

Happy Birthday to all my fellow Virgo peeps; Erin, Suzi, Lindsay, Reilly, Alexa, Courtney, Teri and Jennifer. And, twins Capri and Weber turned 1!

One more thing that I think is worth celebrating. I am FINALLY going back to school. Something I have wanted to do for a long time but never had the courage or guts to do until now. I enrolled in 1 class at University of Richmond, School of Continuing Studies to get my feet wet. I hope to take 2 classes next semester and will be working towards my Bachelor of Liberal Arts degree. School started August 24th and so far so good. Wish me luck on my mid-term next week!

Music Monday: She & Him

2009-09-21T09:13:00.003-04:00

There is a rumor that Zooey Deschanel wed Death Cab for Cutie frontman Ben Gibbard this weekend. I love both. So in honor of this perfect harmony, I bring you Zooey's band, She & Him. This is off their debut album, Volume One.

Enjoy!

Vacation One: Part Four, Down The Shore

2009-09-18T14:20:00.025-04:00

If you aren't from the NJ/New York area, you might say you were going to the beach or heading to the shore. But that is wrong. The only way to describe going to a beach in NJ, is "down the shore". Even if you are south and you are going north, it's still down. Crazy New Jersians (is that a word?). Anyway, that's where we go next, down the shore. Specifically Cape May, NJ, which is as far down as you can get.

I wrote this post a few months ago expressing how I was dreaming of going to Avalon, NJ. Little did I know I would have the opportunity this summer. Cape May is 2 towns down from Avalon so the first night we were in town we went to the tiny island for dinner. It had stormed earlier in the evening and we got a fantastic view of the sky by the beach afterwards. Sorry for so many pictures, I couldn't help myself. The sky looked so different the further the sun set.

The next day we decided to rent bikes and explore before hitting the beach. We rode through town, grabbed breakfast, and then rode along a country road that lead to the lighthouse with great views of Cape May.

Cape May is known for having beautifully restored Victorian houses. This one was outside our hotel window. I wonder when it was built and who has lived there.

We hit the beach after our bike ride and stayed there for hours. Markus had to drag me away from it. I knew it was going to be one of the last times I saw it. And, oh how I love the beach.

We ended the trip with a great seafood dinner, a ferry ride, and some corn fields.

The end!

Vacation One: Part 3

2009-09-09T19:57:00.011-04:00

When Markus took me home to New Jersey the first Christmas we were dating, I didn't really know what to expect. New Jersey to me was The Sopranos and what you see along the turnpike driving into NYC. But Markus insisted it was nothing like that. It was beautiful and a great place to raise a family. Uh huh, sure. The south is beautiful and a great place to raise a family. I had to see it for myself. I was stunned to find beautiful country, small towns with a Main Street and local shops, and gorgeous old houses on big lots with trees and gardens. Madison, where Markus spent most of his childhood is picture perfect, literally. Movies have been filmed using their Main Street. It's the best of both worlds; small enough to have the hometown feel, yet just 25 miles outside of New York City. A train ride away to theatre, restaurants, shopping, and everything else the best city in the world has to offer.

We try to visit Heikki as often as Markus' schedule allows but usually it's just for 2 or 3 days. Not long enough to do much of anything. So we decided to turn one of our vacations into a trip to Heikki's house. We arrived Monday morning and stayed through Friday. It was so relaxing and really nice to spend time with Heikki. We ate, drank, swam, sauna'd, napped, ate some more, and visited friends. Perfect trip!

I now agree with Markus, New Jersey is beautiful and a great place to vacation! Our trip to this great state isn't over yet. Next up, we head "down the shore". Stay tuned!

Vacation One: Part 2

2009-09-07T16:59:00.021-04:00

I can't believe it's September SEVENTH! 1/4 of the way through the month that means summer is over and fall is on it's way. I also can't believe it's taken me so long to post a real blog. Where to begin? So many things happened in the month of August; vacation(s), weddings, birthdays, life! I think the best way to sum it all up would be through pictures. After all, they say a thousand words.

Waaaay back at the end of July we took a trip to NYC. I blogged about the first half of our weekend here. The next part of the story will take place in the Bronx. You know, where Jenny from the block grew up. I don't think I got to see her part of town but I did get to see where the Yankees play.

Markus, being a long time Yankee fan, was beyond excited to see the new stadium and see the game. I, being a Yankee fan by marriage, was mostly excited to take pictures, eat a hot dog, and drink beer. The game proved to be a lot more exciting in person and we both had a great time.

We headed a little further north after the game to visit Miira and Keith in Connecticut. It was a short trip but we got to see their new house and spend some time with them, which is always nice.

Part 3 of our vacation will take us to New Jersey. Stay tuned!

Absence makes the heart grow fonder

2009-08-24T15:26:00.005-04:00

You are not going to believe it but Markus and I have another vacation starting tomorrow. Why so soon? Well, Markus has to bid for his vacation and being on the bottom of the totum pole means not many options. We would have preferred to space them out a little but I'm not complaining because a vacation is a vacation, as long as it means time off from work and time spent with the hubby.

August has flown by. I haven't even finished posting about our last trip in July that took us up north. I promise to be better at posting in September; and catch up on what we have been doing the last month. After all, this blog is supposed to be a journal of our first year of marriage...and beyond. I couldn't possibly leave my favorite month out.

Be back soon with lots of stories and photos...

Sarah

Follow Friday: Story Corps

2009-08-14T13:35:00.003-04:00

Every morning I drive to work listening to NPR and on Fridays I need to bring tissues with me. I arrive at the office and immediately need to go to the bathroom to clean my face up. The reason: Story Corps. NPR features a pod cast of a story from the project on Morning Edition, usually around 8:20 a.m. central time. I highly recommend tuning in, checking out the blog, and reading the book, Listening Is an Act of Love. The title says it all.

Part 1: The Big Apple

2009-08-11T15:39:00.033-04:00

Markus and I took a much needed vacation a few weeks ago to visit with friends and family that live up north, stopping in NYC for the weekend. But before I get to that I am going to be a drama queen and tell about the ride up. Mainly so I can look back at this post years later and remember what a wimp I am and how I eventually overcame my fear of large, tall, bridges (one can hope). I drove the first half of the trip b/c driving into Manhattan on a Friday night scares me. Actually, I think I could handle the driving part. What I can't handle is Markus' New Jersey coming out and him yelling at me from the passenger seat to cut people off, throw my drink at them, and throw up my middle finger. I do not like to be told how to drive. Most people don't, therefore we would need even more therapy than we do now with the bridge incident.

So, I'm afraid of the Bay Bridge that connects Virginia to Maryland via Route 301. I know this because I drove over it years ago with a car full of friends on my way to Avalon, NJ. I had a full blown panic attack to the point where I had to immediately pull over after crossing the bridge and let a friend drive. I would have pulled over sooner if they would have let me but stopping on the bridge is frowned upon. It scares me. My hands are sweating typing this because I have to think of that bridge. Fast forward to our trip: I am happily driving along listening to fun music and annoying Markus because I'm peppy in the car when I remember that I have to cross the bridge. I don't want to let Markus drive b/c then I loose my right to listen to anything I want, a rule we have when driving long distances because of our difference in music. Mine being good and his being, um, different than mine. And also, I want to prove to myself that I can do it this time.

I continue driving. The panic hits me when I get about 1/10 of the way across the bridge because not only are we crossing a big ass bay bridge but I have gone in the Smart Tag lane which requires you to cross with oncoming traffic. And did I mention the railing is see through and not a barricade so I can see straight down the water? So I clutch the steering wheel, look only forward (never in the rear view mirror and certainly not down) and ask Markus to talk to me. This distraction helps slightly when I am about to have a panic attack. My friend, Erin, who was in the car the first time I drove over the bridge did great in coaching me across. So, what does my loving, caring husband talk to me about? How big the bridge is! Obviously, he doesn't want to make it across ALIVE! Panic takes over and it felt like forever until we got to the other side. Once we did, I was literally shaking and the thought of crossing replayed in my head but I kept on driving because a)I did not want to listen to heavy metal Finnish music for the remainder of the trip and b)Because the thought of divorcing Markus AS SOON AS WE GOT BACK TO VIRGINIA distracted me enough that I could concentrate again. I finally calmed down around the time we crossed into Manhattan, 3 hours later. Needless to say, Markus didn't make the same mistake twice. On the way home he drove and I fell asleep. Every time I would wake, he would lovingly tell me to go back to sleep. It worked, we made it over the bridge and our marriage is stronger because of it.

Now on the fun part. Our main purpose was to see the Yankees play in their new stadium Sunday afternoon. But first, there was New York City. I love this city. If I had to pick a place to visit over and over, this would be it. Markus and I have visited a half dozen times in the 4 years we have been together and there is always something new to do. But this trip was a little different, we didn't really have anything planned except for the game so we just kind of went with the flow. We have seen the tourist sites, eaten at trendy restaurants, seen plays, etc. This time I wanted to just be in the city.

First up was subway ride to the Union Square Farmers' Market Saturday morning. But before we left I wanted to get some snaps of the city from the roof of our hotel. The views are amazing! I wish I had gotten up early enough to see the sun rise but I was on vacation so these will do for now.

Next, we headed to the farmers' market in Union Square and I had sensory overload with all of the things to photograph. People, food, flowers, dogs. You name it, it was there. I've been to this market before but never with a dslr camera capable of turning a market into a photo shoot. Markus was great. He was very patient and let me snap away. Probably because he felt guilty for almost killing us the night before. Here are some of my favorite shots, I love how vibrant the colors turned out.

Then it was off to Central Park. I have only explored the lower tip of the park so we decided to take the train to the Upper West Side and walk down to our hotel. We entered around 80th street and walked around exploring and sightseeing. It was Saturday and the park was pretty crowded but we managed to find a spot to lay near a pond. It was quite lovely to relax in the middle of all the hustle and bustle. Even though the park is crammed with people, it is one of my favorite places, especially in the warm months.

I wish we had more time to explore but we had to get back to the hotel to get ready for our night out on the town. We got semi-dressed up and headed down to the Meat Packing District to check out the roof top bar at Hotel Gansevoort, a recommendation from my friend, Susan, who is more hip than I. This hotel was thumping, literally. We thought we were going to sip champagne while watching the sun set but their was some sort of party going on with bottle service, a dj, and scantily clad women dancing on tables. Something both of us may have enjoyed if we were with friends and, oh about 5 years younger before we were old and married. So we quickly did a loop then headed back down the elevator before I felt like a total loser. But I did manage to get a peek at the infamous SoHo House roof top pool that was featured on SATC. I wanted so badly to take a picture but I didn't dare whip out my camera in front of the model-ish types being oh so cool. That would have definitely made me look like a tourist. So instead we opted for a walk around the Meat Packing District, making our way to the West Village for dinner. Something that didn't make me feel old and touristy. I even managed to snap a few pictures on the way.

There is a group of Scandinavian restaurants located in the city that we have been wanting to try since our first trip in 2005. We finally got around to trying Smorgas Chef located in the West Village and I wish we had gone sooner. The food was delicious and the atmosphere was perfect. I can't wait to try the real thing when he takes me to the Motherland next summer.

Up next is part two of our NYC trip; Dim Sum, baseball, and Connecticut. Never thought I would say those 3 things in a sentence!

Music Monday: Weeds

2009-08-10T11:47:00.005-04:00

I blogged a few weeks ago about how the Showtime series, Weeds, wasn't all I was hoping for in the 5th season. But it has redeemed itself. We caught up with episodes 8 & 9 last week and the Botwin family is back in full swing. One of the best things about the series (besides Mary-Louise Parker) is the music. It's quirky, fun, and fits perfectly to what is happening in each episode. I think there are 3 soundtracks that have been released but you can also download music not found on the soundtrack on iTunes.

Something I am missing this season is the Malvina Reynolds song titled "Little Boxes" that was used as the first three seasons opening credit. Malvina's recording was used for season 1 and then to switch it up in seasons 2 & 3 they had the song covered by various artists. My favorite is still Malvina's but if you like this, check out the other covers. Artists who covered the song include Elvis Costello, Regina Spektor, and Jenny Lewis! The song was written in 1962 and holds true more than ever in today's ticky tacky society. Nothing against the 'burbs, I'm just saying :o)

Puppy Love: Part Duex

2009-08-09T13:10:00.012-04:00

Gracie came back for a visit this weekend so her family could take a trip to the Big Apple for a family wedding. We were all excited to have her company but not as much as Charlie. And by all, I mean everyone except Meeko. He is never happy to have another dog in his house.

Charlie and Gracie have been playing All. Weekend. Long! Then, they come inside and pass out. It's great! Meeko gets a break from big brother and I get a break from having to figure out ways to tire Charlie out. I have been taking him on morning runs the last week and when we get back he looks at me like, what's next? So the break in routine has been nice.

Here is a video I shot this morning of the two love birds. Meeko jumps into the frame every once in awhile and it almost looks like he is barking at Gracie to leave Charlie alone. Brotherly love perhaps, or maybe jealousy?

Tonight I put both dogs in the kitchen and when I came back to put them to bed I found this:

Gracie eventually got tired of Charlie in her crate so she came out and laid in his bed. Charlie, meanwhile proceeded to make himself comfy. When I t0ld him to get in his crate, he got this look on his face like "who me? I'm just going to bed like you told me."

Good thing he is cute!

Follow Friday & A Dose of Reality

2009-08-07T16:08:00.010-04:00

I came across this article while catching up with one of my favorite blogs and thought it would be a great thing to share for my Follow Friday post. Courtney, over at In(side) the Loop, blogged about an article in The New York Times and it really struck a cord with me. If you are married, in a relationship, or think you might go down that path sometime in the future, read the article. It's refreshing after you get over the initial shock of what the author shares in the first paragraph.

I'm newly wed and my marriage is in it's infant stage. We are still learning what exactly a partnership bound by more than just love involves. We have so much to learn and everyday is something new. I love hearing from people who have been married and through it all have stuck it out, and are willing to share their love story.

Someone who has been married for a long time once told me they renewed their vows not because they wanted another party celebrating their love, but because they did not understand the complexity of marriage when they first took their vows. The words didn't hold the same weight 15 years prior as they did now. I thought about this as we stood on the beach last November in Jamaica saying our vows in front of God, our loved ones, and a minister, and tried to take in the words and their meaning. But without really knowing what lies ahead, it is hard to make that kind of promise. You start out with the best intentions when life as a twosome is new and exciting. You try to hold on to that feeling as you have children, experience loss of loved ones, careers, and health. But you never know what lies ahead. Many of us will not make it to the "til death do us part" of the vows.

Coming from a family of failed marriages, I am not naive about this. I have seen how easy it is to give up and I respect someone who stays in for the good fight. I think what this woman did took more courage than most of us have. I know we will have hard times down the road. It's inevitable. Life would not be life without the ups and downs. But that doesn't mean I'm not going to fight for my happily ever after and try my hardest to hold up to those vows we promised last November. I think I have picked a partner who shares in my views and values and is going to fight right alongside me. This might sound naive but after all, we are only 9 months in. I am supposed to be naive in these uncharted waters.

Catching up

2009-08-07T14:26:00.005-04:00

We're back from vacation, actually we have been back since Sunday but I haven't had time to blog about it yet. M took the laptop to work this week and I haven't had time to log on at work. They are actually making me work. Hmmpph.

We had a great time, got to visit with some great people, see great things, and eat great food. I'm hoping to upload the many, many pictures I took over the weekend to our Flickr account. In the meantime, here is a photo M took on his iPhone of me snapping photos on the beach in NJ. We were lucky enough to catch the sun setting right after a storm and the sky was amazing.

Have a great weekend! Be back on Monday...

Vacation

2009-07-23T10:08:00.006-04:00

Have a great week!

My Plate

2009-07-22T09:22:00.012-04:00

I have had to get pretty creative with food since getting my braces on. The first weekend after I had my teeth pulled I ate nothing but smoothies and soup. But that got really boring after 3 days. I started looking online for creative foods that were soft. My main criteria was obviously to be able to chew it, fresh, in-season ingredients, and easy enough that I could make it for just me (with leftovers). I came up with some pretty good stuff and I have to say I haven't missed meat at all.

First up was a Mexican tortilla soup with jalapeno cornbread. I searched the Internet to get the basic ingredients and then made a variation with stuff I had around the house and could eat. You could easily add meat to this by picking up a pre-cooked rotisserie chicken.

Mexican Tortilla Soup
1 small yellow onion chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 teaspoons chili powder

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes

1 (10.5 ounce) can condensed chicken broth

1 1/4 cups water

1 can corn, or 2 cooked corn on the cobs

1 (4 ounce) can chopped green chile peppers

1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained

chopped fresh cilantro

1 avocado

shredded soft cheese (I think I used Monterey Jack)
Totrilla strips

1. In a medium stock pot, heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Saute onions and garlic in oil until soft. Stir in chili powder, oregano, tomatoes, broth, and water. Bring to a boil, and simmer for 5 to 10 minutes.

2. Stir in corn, chiles, beans, and cilantro. Simmer for 10 minutes.

3. Ladle soup into bowls, and top with crushed tortilla chips, avocado slices, cheese, and chopped cilantro.

And for the cornbread, who better than the Paula Deen, the queen of butter? Go here for the recipe. It was delicious!

I found the next recipe on The Kitchen and again varied it slightly for my taste. Quinoa is becoming one of my favorite grains. It's hearty enough and full of protein that it can substitute meat and yet delicate enough that you can add a ton of flavors to it. Here is the original recipe for Quinoa Tabbiouleh. Instead of cooking the grain in just water I added vegatable stock and lemon juice for flavor. I left out the mint because I'm not a fan of it in my food and I added toasted pine nuts. I didn't soak the red onion in water because I didn't find it necassary. I think the key here is to make sure the quinoa has cooled to room tempature so it doesn't soak up all the vinaigrette. Another key is very fresh ingredients. My favorite feta is a brand I get at Fresh Market that is imported from Greece and made from sheep's milk. It really does make a huge difference.

And to beef up this meal, I served it with a piece of baked Salmon that I cooked in an aluminun foil packet. I added a little extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice and zest, sea salt, pepper, capers, minced garlic, and some parsely and baked it at 350 degrees for 20 minutes.

I haven't had a chance to make this recipe, but it is next on the list for sure. I found it on my favorite food blog site - Eat, Make, Read. Kelly is always cooking up something amazing in her tiny Brooklyn kitchen. I would love to be a fly on the wall (or maybe a guest at the dinner table!). I cannot wait to try her spicy corn cakes with fresh salsa. If the name of the recipe doesn't entice you than the pictures sure will!

This recipe is perfect for me because it's soft AND it has corn on the cob inside the cake. Corn on the cob is one of my favorite summer treats but with these dang braces it's impossible to eat!

Bon Appetit!

Photography & Family

2009-07-21T13:56:00.017-04:00

I have been having so much fun with my camera. Best birthday present, ever! I love to take it out in the yard whenever I have a spare moment. I never know what I'm going to find out there. The dogs can be awfully cute when they are playing but it's so hard to capture it on film. My favorite thing to photograph so far has been my garden. The camera does the work for me.

Here is a snap of the basil from my garden. I have never had such luck with basil as I did this year. I put it in a galvanized watering trough along with some other herbs. I had to let it flower b/c the branches were getting so tall. It has been awesome having so much on hand, I'm going to miss it this winter.

Markus and I are having a competition to see whose tomatoes do better. I put mine in the backyard and he put his in the side yard. He is winning.

This is a hummingbird that lives in my Ficus tree. He has been in it for 5 years and hasn't fallen off yet!

Mom was watering my tomatoes and I just thought this looked cool. I tried to get a closer shot but it didn't come out that great.

The heavens at dusk. I love the way the light from the flash bounces off the lower limbs.

I'm having a hard time with people though. Can't really get the angle or the lighting right but I'm working on it. The class I wanted to take at the Visual Arts Center is full and there isn't another one until the fall so it looks like I'm on my own for a while. Which is fine because I'm having so much fun in auto. I can only imagine the possibilities in manual. Or when I can learn to edit photos beyond black and white.

Last week was my moms 53rd birthday. Doesn't she look good for her age?

I had a little get together at our house for her. Buz & Ned's barbecue, Baskin Robbins ice cream cake, and balloons.

I had the camera around my neck pretty much the whole night. I'm sure people are going to get tired of me taking their picture but I just can't help myself. You never know when you are going to get a great shot and practice makes perfect. Or in my case, decent.

Granddaddy and Meme enjoying cake. And, if you look closely you can see Jeopardy in the background. Granddaddy never misses Wheel of Fortune or Jeopardy!

Can you tell we are related?

Music Monday: Pete Yorn

2009-07-20T16:15:00.006-04:00

I didn't know much about Pete Yorn until my friend Susan recommended his music. We have similar taste and have been swapping names of bands all summer. She was my go-to girl when I needed a partner to see Jenny Lewis a few weeks ago. And, we are headed down to Norfolk this week to see Pete live at the NORVA. Susan is helping me stick to fulfilling some of my summer to do's I blogged about recently. I forgot to put concerts on the published list but that is definitely one thing I need to take advantage of this summer. So many good people coming our way.

I can't wait to see him in concert!

Follow Friday: Hooked on Houses

2009-07-20T15:52:00.004-04:00

I was too busy to post this on Friday so technically it is Follow Monday but then I wouldn't be able to do Music Monday (and I really want to do Music Monday!) Hooked on Houses is a blog I check on when I'm in my creative mode and looking for inspiration around my own home. I especially love Movie Monday where she features interior and exterior shots from television or movie sets. I always pay attention to what's going on behind the acting and Hollywood can come up with some really great houses. Julia over at HOH has compiled a great collection of these homes. Some of my favorites are the houses from Mr. & Mrs. Smith, Father of the Bride (this was my idea of a perfect home growing up), The Family Stone, Brothers & Sisters, and my all time favorite; the beach house from Something's Gotta Give. Love the kitchen with the HUGE island and check out the stove!

Julia has also compiled photos of celebrity homes. Kind of cool to see how the other half lives!

It's a Canon

2009-07-15T13:52:00.019-04:00

In case you were wondering why there were so many pics over the weekend (or not), I'll tell ya! Markus surprised me with an early birthday present Thursday. A new baby girl named Canon, or EOS Rebel t1i if you want to get technical. She weighs 1lb 0oz and came with an instruction manual that might as well be in French. Like any new mom I am trying to get to know my new baby but she is a tough one to learn. I spent all weekend playing around with the manual settings but decided it's best I shoot in full auto until I learn more about this camera. She has amazing capabilities so I'm thinking of signing up for a beginners photography class at our local vision arts school. Any help I can get with her will be better than none.

Here are some of my favorite photos from this weekend. Nothing spectacular but just wait until I take that class and read a few books recommended from our wedding photographer, Tisha. You will be begging me to show you my skills. Actually, you will probably be begging me to put the camera down and not quit my day job! I'll leave the professional shooting to Tish. She is ah mazing!

I've also started a Flickr account so I can keep track of my progress. It's located in the right column of the blog, feel free to follow me there, too.

The rest of the weekend

2009-07-14T10:37:00.019-04:00

After all of the excitement of the babies it was time to get my teeth pulled. It went smoothly, I slept until 4:30 p.m., and Markus took excellent care of me. I was a little sad to part with such healthy teeth but I know it's for a good cause and the end results will be worth it. It's just the next two years I'm worried about. Braces went on yesterday. I was feeling great until my Advil wore off around 2 p.m. Then I finally got why everyone was telling me it was going to be painful and sore. It's going to take some getting used to but I am really excited this is finally happening. Something I have want my whole adult life. Yah for braces!

The rest of the weekend was spent relaxing, recovering, and hanging out with friends. Markus even played hookie Saturday so he could ~~play golf~~ take care of his wife.

We did a lot of napping.

And walking.

Played with the other twins in our life, Capri and Weber. These guys will be 1 next month!

Had dinner with the gang (minus new parents, Lindsay and Carlos).

And finished the night off with a friendly game of Taboo, boys against girls. Boys won but only because they cheat ;)

It was a much needed weekend at home. We both went back to work feeling rested and ready for the long week ahead. Something that rarely happens after the week ends and a new one begins.

Introducing...

2009-07-14T09:54:00.017-04:00

Well, I'm officially toothless & metal mouth but more on that later. Gotta tell the fun stuff first. I had off Friday so I could get nice and drugged when yanked my teeth out. We were planning on having a relaxing morning at home but who could sleep when their were 2 new babies coming into the world? I got a text from Lindsay at 5:30 a.m. saying she was finally in labor and my favorite part, "just got my epidural and am in heaven". Little did I know I would be feeling her high later that morning.

Anyway, back to the story. According to Lindsay's doctors they thought she would progress quickly since she was at 6cm when she came in. Estimated time of delivery was before 9 a.m. So we were on pins and needles all morning, anxiously awaiting to hear that mom and babies were doing well. I even took my phone into my procedure in case someone called with news. I was that excited! All that lead to was a bunch of texting while on nitrus, none of which I remember until I checked my phone later in the evening. Kind of like drunk dialing excpet with non of the remorse.

We finally heard from Carlos around 7 that evening. Lindsay tried her hardest to have the babies the old fashioned way but after pushing for 3 hours(!!!) they had to take them via c section. Lindsay and babies were fine the whole time, they think both babies were jockeying for position and trying to come out at the same time. They were just as anxious to meet the world as the world was for them.

So, without further ado I intoduce to you Carlos Oliver Morales weighing in at 5lbs, 16oz

and his baby brother Phillip Gabriel Morales weighing in at 6lbs, 06oz.

Mom, babies, and Dad are doing great and are at home falling in love with each other. I took so many pictures of the babies and I honestly can't tell them apart. They aren't sure if they are identicial or faternal twins because they really do look alike so they are doing a path test to be sure. Stay tuned!!!

Operation Smile

2009-07-10T10:02:00.006-04:00

I'm on my way to the dentist to get my perfectly healthy teeth pulled. Four to be exact. It's all for preparation for what I have been calling operation smile. I have to make my smile worse before it gets better. Monday I will go to the orthodontist to get my braces on! I have wanted braces for a looooong time and can't believe it's finally happening. They will be on for 2 years so it's going to be a long process but so worth it.

I can't believe I'm going to put this picture on the internet for all the world to see but here it is, my before. Hopefully in 2 years the after will be a dramatic and beautiful change. There may be a few more wrinkles around the smille but the teeth should be straight, white, and appear smaller!

Music Monday: Tori is Touring

2009-07-06T14:03:00.005-04:00

I am a HUGE fan of Tori Amos. I've been listening to her since high school but have never seen her live. She is on tour this summer but I have conflicts on all the dates she will be on the East Coast. Some of my favorite Tori albums are her live ones so I'm really bummed I'm going to miss her again.

But, if you are a Tori fan and would like to check her out live, go here for her tour dates. You can tell me all about it so I can hate you. Just kidding, I won't hate, I'll just be really jealous.

Here is one of Tori songs from my favorite album, Little Earthquakes. I would listen to this song over and over trying to figure out what the lyrics meant. Like most Tori lyrics, you never really know what she is talking about. I think that is why I like her so much. That and she plays paino like nobody's business. And her voice. Love her voice.

Follow Friday: Let's hear it for the boys

2009-07-03T14:03:00.008-04:00

I hope you are off from work and somewhere fun with family and friends. But if you are like me and stuck at work on this gorgeous day, I give you the gift of laugh. Last week my follow post was about the ladies but this week it is about the funny men out there. I have no idea how I came across these blogs but I'm glad I did. They keep me entertained on days like this, when all I can think about is getting out in the sun and having some f-u-n.

Ryan is the man behind the blog Pacing the Panic Room and it is a must read for me everyday. He is a photographer located in FL (the central part, as he says) and has created a blog about everything from photography to chickens to his growing family. Ryan's wife, Cole, recently gave birth to their first child, Tessa Tangerine, so his posts have slowed down a bit but you can always read through his archives for a good story. Also check out his Maternity Series where each week of Cole's pregnancy he photographs her growing belly and writes a little blurb to their unborn child. Ah mazing photography and a great way to get to know the man behind the lense.

Another great "daddy" blog is Dad Gone Mad written by Danny Evans. I think the title pretty much sums up the point of the blog. But if not, he has also written a book titled Rage Against the Meshugenah: Why it Takes Balls to Go Nuts. It comes out August 4th and I can't wait to add it to my collection of summer reads. If it is anything like the blog, it will be great read on a subject that not many men discuss but should.

And then there was one

2009-07-03T11:06:00.015-04:00

It has been a FUN week around our house. Markus had off for FIVE whole days (not including Saturday evening when got home at 6 p.m. and was able to attend a surprise bday party with me!) 5 days sounds like a lot on paper but when you factor in me working 32 of those hours, chores, and misc. engagements it wasn't as much quality alone time as I would like but I'll take anything at this point. We visited with friends, had lunch and dinners together, spent time alone, and Markus was even able to squeeze in a round of golf!

Rachel and Steven were still visiting from Florida so we were also able to spend some time with them as well. Even though they were here for 3 weeks, it feels like a lot less. There is always so much to do and not enough time. But we were able to squeeze in some family dinners, a game or two of catch phrase, and some fun at Dave & Busters.

Lindsay is still pregnant(!) so we planned a girls night in for her while Markus had a guys night out with Carlos. Probably the last time he will see the inside of a bar for a loooooong time. Just kidding Carlos, kids don't change your life that much ;) Lindsay was super excited to have visitors since she has been on bed rest for 2 weeks. We brought over dinner and her favorite dessert and sat around and talked about girl stuff. Christina and Suzi (both have kids) filled Lindsay in on what birth would be like and all the messy details. Probably not something you want to hear before birthing 2 babies but at least she is well prepared.

I snapped this photo of Lindsay because I'm sure she will want to remember what she looked like at 35 weeks pregnant with twins. Lindsay was nice enough to hold my glass of red wine while I took her picture. No drinking for pregnant ladies, no sir. And did I mention she is having twins? Looking good Linds!

And on another note, Charlie has recovered from his love sickness. He had some quality time with dad and brother and was feeling like his old self in no time.

Is it weird that our male dogs tongue kiss?

But like all good things, it must come to an end. Markus left for work this morning and the kids are headed back to Florida. Which means today will be my first day coming home to an empty house in weeks. I usually don't mind alone time but I think I have gotten used to having company. The house is going to feel empty and quiet without all the people and animals. If you would like to visit, let me know!

Happy 4th of July!!!

Puppy Love

2009-06-30T09:46:00.015-04:00

We've had a four legged friend visiting for the past week and Charlie was hit hard with the love bug. Our friends were out of town for two weeks so we decided to spring Gracie from the kennel a week early so she could spend some time with Charlie. She was pretty happy to get out of there and into our back yard.

I wasn't sure how it was going to work out since we already had two at home. One being Meeko who isn't keen on new visitors of any kind, much less the four legged variety. But it worked out great. Gracie was able to keep Charlie entertained which meant Meeko got a vacation from his big brother.

Grace and Charles became fast friends and were inseparable. Charlie followed her everywhere. Even out the back gate when Markus was taking out the trash. Lucky for us, Markus was quick on his feet and was able to apprehend both doggies.

Gracie went home yesterday and Charlie has been lost. He wants to know when his furry friend is coming back.

I even tried giving him extra attention last night by letting him on the couch with us. But he opted to ~~pout~~ lie on the floor.

Poor Charles. We promise Gracie can come back for a visit anytime.

Music Monday: Jenny Lewis

2009-06-29T11:07:00.006-04:00

Jenny Lewis is coming to The National Friday, July 3rd. She is in the LA based Indie Rock band, Rilo Kiley but has 2 solo albums that rock. If you are local, check her out. If you are not, check out her album Acid Tongue. I love it. She is a little bit indie rock, a little bit alternative country. The songs range so much that you get a bit of everything wrapped up in her sweet voice. Here is a taste of her style but it's so eclectic that this doesn't do it justice.

Black Sand

Follow Friday: The Mommy blogs

2009-06-26T10:01:00.006-04:00

Whenever I need a good laugh, I can always count on these ladies. They manage to be funny while juggling careers, husbands, and raising a family (some of them have 5 kids!!!). AND they find time to blog about it. Kudos from someone who has a hard time keeping up with life sans children. I can't imagine what it's going to be like once we add little creatures who rely soley on us for their daily needs. That is a scary thought!

Check out Carolyn...Online, Is There Any Mommy Out There, and Baby on Bored next time you need a pick me up. No topic is off subject with these ladies so you never know what a post is going to be about. I love their honesty. They put on the internet what I'm sure a lot of moms think but don't actually say.

One of my favorites is from AnyMommy where she describes what it is about her kids that would drive her to drink if she wasn't 38 weeks pregnant. Check it out here. Another is Caroylns deep south primer where she describes her vacation in the south. If you have ever vacationed in the south, I'm sure you have had a similiar experience. Free entertainment, people!

Happy Friday, y'all!

I'm dreaming of a white summer

2009-06-25T11:39:00.018-04:00

I love sleepy beach towns. They are becoming harder and harder to find these days as real estate along the coast becomes overpopulated with big named hotels, fast food chains, and tourist traps. But these locations have held on to their small town charm. I picture Markus and I renting a beach house one day with our family at one of these beaches. Riding into town on beach combers, grabbing an ice cream after a day spent at the beach, eating seafood with our bare hands, and falling asleep to the ocean breeze.

Seaside, Florida is a beach community on the Florida panhandle in Walton County. I've never been but the pictures look nice. I also like their motto, learn to feel small again. This beach town was the inspiration for the town in The Truman Show.

Avalon, New Jersey isn't the sleepy beach town it used to be when my friend Erin was growing up there s but it hasn't lost all of it's charm. I've been going to Avalon for the Fourth of July since 2003 and I love it. It's got beautiful beaches, plenty of night life with live music almost every night of the week, and great food. You can walk or bike into town for a cone from Avalon Freeze, grab a slice late night from Circle Pizza, or hit up the Windrift on Tuesday for all you can eat wing night. I am going to miss Avalon this summer!

I've also never been to Charleston, South Carolina but I have a feeling we would get along well. There is nothing better for this southern gal than a beach town with old historic homes and palm trees. Add a Firefly iced tea and a wrap around porch and I wouldn't leave! Maybe that's why Markus and I have never visited, he is scared I'll want to move there. Not a half bad idea. Until I can actually visit this town, I'll picture myself strolling these streets, looking at beautiful southern architecture.

Where is your family headed this summer?

It's summertime and the living's easy

2009-06-24T15:38:00.018-04:00

Summer doesn't carry the same weight for me as it did when I was in school. When the calendar was split into routine/homework and non-routine/fun activities. But that doesn't mean I still can't enjoy what summer has to offer. I was reading Meg Duerksen's Whatever blog today and came across her post, Summer List 2009. What a great idea! She sat down with all 5 of her kids and made a list of what they want to accomplish this summer. Here is my own grown up version of the list.

Markus' made a list of his own. I'm just glad boating isn't buy a boat!
Beach
Yankees game

Picnic
Boating
Golf
Drink beer

What is on your families 2009 summer list?

Top 5 ways to kiss your relationship goodbye

2009-06-24T10:52:00.003-04:00

Here is my top 5 list of what to do if you want out of your relationship. We have seen celebrities make these mistakes over and over and yet people still do them, thinking they are the exception to the rule. I'm not saying that if you avoid these things then you are in the clear. Just saying this will speed up the process.

5. Proclaim your love publicly by saying things like “we will never get divorced”, or “that won’t happen to us”. Once those words leave your mouth you might as well contact your divorce lawyer. Never say never.

4. Renewing your vows because the first ceremony wasn’t lavish enough. Not judging, just saying Jon & Kate did it and look where it got them.

3. Get married spontaneously in Vegas. This scenario works out for no one except Ashton Kutcher and Cameron Diaz and that was because it was a Hollywood movie. Unless you were already planning on getting married, avoid quickie Britney Spears weddings at the Little White Chapel.

2. Get tattoos together. Especially matching ones, names, initials, or some other crap celebrities do. The only thing permanent in this scenario is the ink you just put on your body.

1. Get your own reality show. Enough said.

Is Weeds getting you high?

2009-06-23T15:45:00.010-04:00

Is anyone else watching this season of Weeds finding it as disappointing as I am? I was so excited for this show to come back on the air. But 3 episodes into this season I am finding myself wishing it over. I blame it on the new intro with no music. Bring back Malvina Reynolds and the covers of her "Little Boxes" please.

One more reason to like the guy

2009-06-22T15:19:00.006-04:00

Hip hip hooray for my president today. President Obama signed an anti-smoking bill that has been in the works for almost 10 years! You can read more about the legislation here.

Music Monday: Relax

2009-06-22T09:12:00.004-04:00

It's Monday, another work week. I'm in the office alone. I love being in the office alone, especially in the mornings. It gives me time to drink my coffee and wake up. I'm not much for talking first thing in the morning, I like to listen to music. This morning I decided to listen to one of my favorite Sarah McLachlen songs. It's all instrumental and the first time I heard it I was driving through the WV mountains alone on a sunny fall day. Perfection. I always saw myself walking down the aisle to this song as the sun was setting on a beach somewhere. But it didn't exactly happen that way. Now it almost sounds like a lullaby. Maybe one day I can rock my babies asleep to it. That would be nice. Enjoy.

Week End

2009-06-19T14:30:00.010-04:00

I was going to blog about how excited I was to have my husband home for an entire weekend but plans changed and he is stuck at work until tomorrow evening. So I have to readjust the view I had in my mind and be glad that I get to spend an entire Sunday with him. Wooohoooo!!!

It's been a busy week around the H house. My cousin and her boyfriend are up from Florida staying with us until they can find an apartment of their own. Rachel just graduated high school and thought moving to the fan would be a fun change from the sun/sand/beach thing she had going on in Florida. Obviously, the kid hasn't experienced a winter in Richmond in awhile. It's been fun having them around though, and coming home to someone other than the dogs. Rachel and I have always been more like sisters than cousins which is exactly the relationship I have with her mom. We are even separated by 12 years, just like Teri and I.

My grandmother has been in the hospital with pneumonia since Sunday. So I have been taking my lunch and visiting her at the hospital. Each day she looks stronger and able. She is getting released today to at outpatient rehabilitation center to help build her strength. As far as the cancer goes, it's still there but not progressing. So the main focus right now is treating the pneumonia and getting her strength built up. It's going to be a huge adjustment for her but I think it was God's way of telling her she was doing too much.

The Morales twins are trying to make an early escape from Lindsay's comfy uterus. Lindsay prematurely went into labor yesterday morning and is at the same hospital my grandmother is in. The doctors are giving her medicine to stop the labor and so far it is working. She is still having contractions but not progressing so say a prayer they stay in the oven a little while longer. I visited with her today and when I walked in Lindsay was reading a magazine and Carlos was in the recliner with his laptop. If she wasn't hooked up to an IV and heart monitoring machine, I would have thought they were on vacation. I took a picture but I doubt Lindsay wants it on the Internet, sorry folks. No pictures this blog. Boooooring!

Other than that, it's been a normal work week. Oh yeah, I did get to attend a fundraiser for our mayor Wednesday night. It was a who's who of local politicians and high ranking city officials. Not really my cup of tea but the food was really good and it was open bar!

Hope everyone has a good weekend!

Follow Friday: Food Edition

2009-06-19T14:07:00.007-04:00

Some of my favorite blogs are about food. They feature great recipes and amazing pictures. What more could you want, right? I first came across eat make read from a Tastespotting post on no bake cookies. They were amazing and I have been an avid reader ever since. The author lives in Brooklyn, shops at her local farmers market, and is always coming up with new concoctions with local produce. Some of my favorite posts though have been about her excursions in and around NYC. And every now and again she gives a drink recipe in her Happy Hour series.

Another blogger I like to follow is Alejandra Ramos from Always Order Dessert. That's my motto, too! She also lives in NYC and blogs about her life through food. It seems like she is always in the kitchen trying something new. I have made a few of her recipes and they are delicious.

And again, since I don't like a post without pictues, here is a picture of Meeko this morning being a sleepy head. He actually growled at me when I got him up to go potty.

Let me sleep woman!

Dreaming

2009-06-18T15:33:00.008-04:00

Sometimes I like to look on the MLS to see what's out there, just to see. And sometimes I dream BIG and don't put a maximum price in my search criteria. Today I came across some blog worthy properties. First, I found this piece of land located in Albemarle, Virginia. Gorgeous, gorgeous gorgeous. I could go from city girl to country girl with land like this.

And wouldn't this house look nice on that land?

A girl can dream and this girl dreams BIG!

Obama's so fly

2009-06-18T10:40:00.007-04:00

and to the PETA folks...GET A LIFE!!!!!!!!!

It's in the bag

2009-06-17T15:36:00.030-04:00

I'm on the hunt for the perfect handbag. They are like cars, you don't really know what you are getting until you take it out for a test drive. You want something that looks good but is also functional. Something that has room but doesn't look like a minivan. It takes time to find the perfect one. And it's usually through trial and error. You can quickly run out to your favorite store and grab something that catches your eye but chances are, just like the car, you are going to end up paying too much and have buyer's remorse because it's not functional. And don't even get me started on handbags that cost as much as cars! I'm all for having a nice handbag made of real leather but unless you have the bank account of Paris Hilton, you do not need a Louis Vuitton, real or fake.

My perfect handbag would be something that looks and feels good, is colorful but can go with any outfit, has room for everything I might need in a day, and organized. This last one is key. I HATE digging around for my keys or trying to find something while standing in line with everyone waiting for you to search through your cluttered purse. It's embarrasing and makes me feel so unorganized. I'm willing to pay a decent price for this bag as long as it can stand the test of time and trends.

But where do I find this bag? My usual shopping spots have turned up nothing to write home about. Now I'm on an internet search. I have found a few that look like they meet my criteria. Now I'm on a mission to see if I can find them locally so I can take it out for a test drive. Do you think the salesperson would mind if I walk around the store with my items in the purse to see if it's a good fit? I promise I won't accidentially walk out with it!

click photo above for larger view

1. The Sak - convertible satchel

2. Kate Spade - union square cross-body mini phoebe

3. Matt & Nat - oversized pleated satchel

4. Kate Spade - union square simone satchel

5. Kate Spade - union square opus

6. Anthropologie - much obliged shoulderbag

Celebrations

2009-06-16T13:32:00.022-04:00

Last weekend Markus and I threw a baby shower for the Morales at our house. Lindsay and Carlos are expecting twin boys in July and we wanted to do something special for them before all the craziness of being new parents begins. What could be more special than throwing a shower in their honor and inviting their friends with children for practice??? You should have seen our house, there was almost as many children as adults. At one point I looked around and thought, so this is what parties will be like from now on. Don't get me wrong, it was a lot of fun to have the little ones around, I just never imagined having that many in that house. I usually relate more to the kids table than the adults table but something has switched in the last year. Maybe it's that I'm married now. Oh yeah, that must be it. Nothing to make you feel grown up than the responsibilities of being a wife and husband. But back to the party....

Lindsay looked gorgeous in her fuchsia dress. She had that pregnancy glow. I wish I had a picture to show but I was a bad host and forgot to take pictures. Carlos was drawn to the kids, especially the babies, and they were drawn to him as well. He is going to be a great father, it just looks effortless with him. I can't wait to meet Phillip Gabriel and Carlos Oliver in July. They are already loved by so many and are blessed to have such a wonderful family anticipating their arrival.

This past weekend I attended a bachelorette party on the Chesapeake Bay celebrating the final days of Misty being Ms. Morton. Misty's maid of honor has a house down on the bay and was nice enough to have Misty and 14 of her closest friends down for the weekend.

It was the perfect bachelorette party. Lots of girls, a pool, food and booze, and the perfect host to show us a good time. I won't go into every detail but judging from the way Misty felt Sunday, I think she had a good time. I know I did!

One other thing to add to the celebrations, my cousin Rachel graduated high school on May 30th! I wasn't able to attend but nonetheless, I'm so proud of her. Congratulations, Rachel!!!

Bre & Rachel - class of 2009

Positivity, people!

2009-06-15T16:27:00.011-04:00

I believe you can truly judge ones character by how they face the world through tough times. A positive attitude is easy to maintain when life is carefree and worry free but quite another story when faced with difficulty. It's so easy to get caught up in your own life and worries and forget people around you have the same amount, if not more going on in their lives. I try to remember all the positive people in my life and think how would they handle a situation. One of those people is my soon to be 86-year old grandmother, Vivian Chenault. She always has a smile (and makeup) on her face, no matter what life has thrown her. She makes the best out of every situation even though she has seen her fair share of hard times. Even the day my grandfather died she was looking on the bright side and staying strong for her family. I know that was probably the toughest day of her life but she handled it with such dignity and grace.

Markus with his new bride and grandmothers

Some of you had the pleasure of meeting her at the wedding and can attest to what a wonderful woman she is. I was the most nervous to tell her that we had decided to get married in Jamaica, on a beach, without the presence of our church. She is a pretty religious lady and I thought for sure she would want me to get married in our church. Being in her mid 80's I also wondered if she was going to be able to make the long flight down to the islands. I couldn't imagine getting married without her presence and wrestled with if this was enough to have it in Virginia. In the end we decided that we would make the sacrifice of not having all of our loved ones there in order to have the wedding in our hearts. I was thrilled when we told our family and they were so supportive. Grandmama Chenault was so happy for us and never once complained of the wedding being so far. She and my dad immediately went out and got their passports and she told everyone she was going to Jamaica to see her eldest grandchild get married. Soon after we made the announcement the wedding would be in Jamaica, my grandmother was diagnosed with Ovarian Cancer. That didn't stop her from seeing me get married. She made sure her doctor knew she had a plane to catch mid November and wasn't going to miss it for the world. It was such a blessing to have her on the beach with us that day. I will never forget it as long as I live. She told me after the ceremony that she was proud of me for going down the aisle, even though it was raining. That when they announced I had said let the show go on she thought to herself that's exactly what she would have done. That made me especially happy to know.

Meme and Grandma Chenault before the ceremony

We get the test results today to see if the 2nd round of chemo worked. As I type, she is in the hospital for the 2nd time in a week fighting pneumonia. I talked with her today and even though her voice sounded a little weak her spirit was still there. She was already looking toward the future and making plans to continue our baking lessons. She said the hospital wasn't exactly where she wanted to spend the weekend but it was nice to get some rest and be so well taken care of.

I don't know what the future holds for my grandma or for any of us. But I know that she lives her life to the fullest and has had a blessed life. I'm not finished learning from her but I hope I have learned enough so that when she is no longer here her spirit can live on through me. She inspires me to always keep my head up and I hope that I can be half the person she is one day.

Follow Friday

2009-06-12T15:41:00.010-04:00

It's Friday at 3:54 p.m. The end of another work week with the weekend just in sight. I like to end my Friday by catching up with some of my blog friends. I don't always get a chance to read them during the week and my reader is full of new posts. I thought I would share some of my favorites, just in case you would like to end your work week as unproductive as I do after a semi-productive week. Did that even make sense? It's been a long day. Anyway, some of these show up in my "blogs that I follow" and some I just randomly check in on.

My favorite "design" blog is written by Erica from Urban Grace Interiors. She has my dream job of being a work-at-home interior designer. She has great style and her blogs are always fun to read. She also shares details of her life and through that I have found my next favorite blog, which is written by her twin sister. Darby's blog, titled Fly Through My Window, is about a stay-at-home mom which just so happens to be my 2nd dream job. Darby is very crafty. She is always sharing recipes and ideas on how to keep 3 kids entertained through crafts. Another great blog I found from Erica is In(side) the Loop. Courtney started her blog in Houston, TX but has since moved to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia and started another blog, Shrimp & Petroleum. Following Courtney in her travels throughout Southeast Asia helps with my wanderlust.

Another favorite is dooce, which is written by Heather Armstrong. Somewhat of a celebrity in the blog world, Heather was fired from her job in 2001 after blogging about work and now blogs freely and lucratively from home. Rebecca from Girls Gone Child is another blog I like to check up on. She is a work-from-home mom blogging about life in LA and what it's like being a unconventional mother of two.

I have more that I'll share later. Happy reading!

*And because I think posts without pictures are boring, I leave you with this:

That's Charlie, wishing everyone a fabulous weekend!

Just Another Music Monday

2009-06-08T11:19:00.007-04:00

Sometimes you just need a song to get you going in the morning. This morning was one of those times. I love The Be Good Tanyas. Their music is always uplifting, even if the words are a little depressing. It works best if you listen to it LOUD in your car with the windows down and the sun shining bright.

Hope your week is off to a good start. I'm happy the sun is shining and it finally feels like summer round these parts!

For my Lady Friends

2009-06-05T09:25:00.025-04:00

It's that time of year again, swimsuit season. I don't know one woman over the age of 25 who gets excited about getting into a bathing suit. No matter what your body type, there is always something that you are trying to hide because let's face it, a bathing suit is really just your bra and undies made of our spandex and nylon. They are revealing!

Introducing my new best friend: The one piece. It used to be that one pieces were for children, grandmothers. & professional swimmers but now there are so many choices that the one piece can actually be sexy. Here are some of my favorite bathing suits I have found this season in no particular order.

Anthropologie

J Crew