This past Tuesday I headed out to the east side to meet up for dinner with the girls. There was lots to catch up on, especially since I haven't logged into facebook in about a month so it seems like I am missing all the good stuff that is going on.
Just like usual we talked boys, work, weddings, babies, and lots of other stuff that just makes you feel better after you get to talk with the girls for two hours. I thought the big news of the night was going to be whether or not Kristen was having a boy or a girl, but she didn't find out until yesterday.
At the beginning of June there is going to be a little baby boy that joins her family and we are all so excited for her. I guess that means I have to start knitting something!
Showing posts with label friends. Show all posts
Showing posts with label friends. Show all posts
Saturday, January 28, 2012
Monday, January 23, 2012
things i did this weekend
I feel like I haven't stopped since 2012 began! It seems like there is always something to do, whether it is work, having fun, meeting up with friends, cleaning the house, knitting, or working on reading my next book club book.
So instead of a "real" post, I think I am just going to make a little list of the things that we did this weekend.
Friday night of course meant work, which was SUPER slow and that is an understatement. The night felt like it went on forever because of the snowstorm. No one was out, even though we live in Cleveland and it snows here all winter.
Saturday morning Ben went to the market to get some meats and cheeses and delicious bagels and bacon for breakfast. After enjoying some bagels and coffee we ran lots of errands and then headed back to work which was much busier, which equals more fun and more money!
Sunday was the perfect day. We went to church in the morning and then took a quick trip to Earth Fare which we just can't get enough of. Then we headed to Tap House for brunch with some of my absolute favorites. The bloody marys were delicious and the breakfast pizza Anthony had was way better than my omelet, so I know what I am getting next time we head up there.
We came home and I really wanted to use the new Kitchen Aid mixer that we got for Christmas and I had this desire to make homemade dog biscuits so I tried out this recipe and they were great. (at least I think so because I did not try them but Breckyn seems to love them!) It was a fun recipe and I am glad I got to use the mixer. Plus I bought two new cookie cutters since I didn't have a dog bone cookie cutter and I had to use them since I went everywhere to find them.
I also made this to take over to my moms for dinner and it was a hit. I altered it a little because I could not find peanut butter chips or regular rice crispies at Earth Fare, so I used a little extra peanut butter instead and puffed rice cereal. It makes it a little bit harder to bite into, but it is great with a little bit of milk in the microwave for about 30 seconds.
I ended the night hanging out on the couch with Ben watching Chef Jonathon Sawyer from The Greenhouse Tavern cook up a few great meals on Iron Chef America. Even though he did not win the battle, it was a great way to represent Cleveland and lots of fun to watch.
What a great weekend! Let's hope this week is just as good!
So instead of a "real" post, I think I am just going to make a little list of the things that we did this weekend.
Friday night of course meant work, which was SUPER slow and that is an understatement. The night felt like it went on forever because of the snowstorm. No one was out, even though we live in Cleveland and it snows here all winter.
Saturday morning Ben went to the market to get some meats and cheeses and delicious bagels and bacon for breakfast. After enjoying some bagels and coffee we ran lots of errands and then headed back to work which was much busier, which equals more fun and more money!
Sunday was the perfect day. We went to church in the morning and then took a quick trip to Earth Fare which we just can't get enough of. Then we headed to Tap House for brunch with some of my absolute favorites. The bloody marys were delicious and the breakfast pizza Anthony had was way better than my omelet, so I know what I am getting next time we head up there.
We came home and I really wanted to use the new Kitchen Aid mixer that we got for Christmas and I had this desire to make homemade dog biscuits so I tried out this recipe and they were great. (at least I think so because I did not try them but Breckyn seems to love them!) It was a fun recipe and I am glad I got to use the mixer. Plus I bought two new cookie cutters since I didn't have a dog bone cookie cutter and I had to use them since I went everywhere to find them.
I also made this to take over to my moms for dinner and it was a hit. I altered it a little because I could not find peanut butter chips or regular rice crispies at Earth Fare, so I used a little extra peanut butter instead and puffed rice cereal. It makes it a little bit harder to bite into, but it is great with a little bit of milk in the microwave for about 30 seconds.
I ended the night hanging out on the couch with Ben watching Chef Jonathon Sawyer from The Greenhouse Tavern cook up a few great meals on Iron Chef America. Even though he did not win the battle, it was a great way to represent Cleveland and lots of fun to watch.
What a great weekend! Let's hope this week is just as good!
Thursday, January 12, 2012
book club
Way back in September my very best friend finally moved back to Cleveland. She had been living in Columbus since we had graduated college and I was so happy to have her back.
While living in Columbus she was part of a little book club that would read one book a month (some of the girls would read the book) and then get together to talk and have apps and wine. She decided she wanted to bring the ida to Cleveland and have a book club here and I was SUPER excited.
I love, love, love to read. My dream job would be to read books and write reviews on them. If I could get paid to read, I can't imagine anything better. Since that isn't happening anytime soon, I am part of a book club.
Our first book was Sarah's Key which I, and I think everyone else, really enjoyed. We got together last night at Melissa's house and talked about the book, ate, drank, passed around baby Sophia, and talked about many non-book related topics as well. It was a great time. Before I knew it I looked up and it was 10 o'clock!
We decided this would be a monthly thing, and since Melissa chose the first book, she hosted. I volunteered to host the second get together because I really wanted to read The Hunger Games and since I am hosting I get to pick the book. One of the girls has already read it and said she liked it, so I think it will be a good pick.
Now I just better get reading so I can work on planning my menu for when I host in a month!
While living in Columbus she was part of a little book club that would read one book a month (some of the girls would read the book) and then get together to talk and have apps and wine. She decided she wanted to bring the ida to Cleveland and have a book club here and I was SUPER excited.
I love, love, love to read. My dream job would be to read books and write reviews on them. If I could get paid to read, I can't imagine anything better. Since that isn't happening anytime soon, I am part of a book club.
Our first book was Sarah's Key which I, and I think everyone else, really enjoyed. We got together last night at Melissa's house and talked about the book, ate, drank, passed around baby Sophia, and talked about many non-book related topics as well. It was a great time. Before I knew it I looked up and it was 10 o'clock!
We decided this would be a monthly thing, and since Melissa chose the first book, she hosted. I volunteered to host the second get together because I really wanted to read The Hunger Games and since I am hosting I get to pick the book. One of the girls has already read it and said she liked it, so I think it will be a good pick.
Now I just better get reading so I can work on planning my menu for when I host in a month!
Sunday, January 1, 2012
holidays, hocking hills, and a little lack of blogging
So I'm a little late on the 2011 recap and the 2012 new year's resolution posts. I also haven't posted anything in over two weeks! Yikes!
With the holidays, then a short vacation, then the new year, I just haven't taken the time to sit down and spend time writing. I know I need to get better at that. Hmmmm...maybe a new year's resolution right there! More for that later though.
Christmas flew by so quickly this year, as it usually does. It was a wonderful holiday and I enjoyed every second of it. Ben and I were able to spend all of Christmas Eve and Christmas day together which is exactly what I wanted. We spent time with both of our families and enjoyed just being with everyone. I am so thankful for the wonderful holiday we had.
On Tuesday after Christmas we took a little trip down to Hocking Hills with our friends Melissa and Anthony. We spent 3 nights in a little cabin with Breckyn and had a great time. We ate, we drank, we slept in, we hiked, we ate and drank more, we played Phase 10 too many times, and even exchanged some Christmas gifts. It was a great little break from all of the holiday 'hustle and bustle.'
Ben and I spent New Year's Eve at work, which was better than spending money right? That's what I am telling myself at least! It was fun to be with our work friends, but after midnight I was able to go home and did so quickly. Today we spent some time with my dad's family for the annual New Year's Day potluck lunch and now we have the rest of the evening to hang out and relax. What could be better than that?
Since I did not take one single Christmas or New Year picture, I have lots of Hocking Hills pictures to share. We didn't do very much, but we did got to Old Man's Cave which was beautiful. I still have no idea how to put pictures into a collage, so unfortunately I will just be adding them one at a time and this will end up being an extremely long post. Any help with this problem would be much appreciated!!
With the holidays, then a short vacation, then the new year, I just haven't taken the time to sit down and spend time writing. I know I need to get better at that. Hmmmm...maybe a new year's resolution right there! More for that later though.
Christmas flew by so quickly this year, as it usually does. It was a wonderful holiday and I enjoyed every second of it. Ben and I were able to spend all of Christmas Eve and Christmas day together which is exactly what I wanted. We spent time with both of our families and enjoyed just being with everyone. I am so thankful for the wonderful holiday we had.
On Tuesday after Christmas we took a little trip down to Hocking Hills with our friends Melissa and Anthony. We spent 3 nights in a little cabin with Breckyn and had a great time. We ate, we drank, we slept in, we hiked, we ate and drank more, we played Phase 10 too many times, and even exchanged some Christmas gifts. It was a great little break from all of the holiday 'hustle and bustle.'
Ben and I spent New Year's Eve at work, which was better than spending money right? That's what I am telling myself at least! It was fun to be with our work friends, but after midnight I was able to go home and did so quickly. Today we spent some time with my dad's family for the annual New Year's Day potluck lunch and now we have the rest of the evening to hang out and relax. What could be better than that?
Since I did not take one single Christmas or New Year picture, I have lots of Hocking Hills pictures to share. We didn't do very much, but we did got to Old Man's Cave which was beautiful. I still have no idea how to put pictures into a collage, so unfortunately I will just be adding them one at a time and this will end up being an extremely long post. Any help with this problem would be much appreciated!!
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| pierogies step one |
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| working so hard |
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| ready for cooking |
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| ready for eating! |
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| a cabin is not complete without a massage chair |
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| very serious game of Connect 4 |
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| Melis and Anthony on our hike at Old Man's Cave |
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| Breckyn, Ben and mysefl |
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| some serious tree roots |
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| Phase 10 |
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| a very serious game that is addicting |
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
christmas monthly dinner
After many e-mails, some cancellations, and a few reschedules, we were finally able to get together for our monthly dinner.
December is such a hard month and I really threw a wrench into things when I decided to take a quick Hocking Hills vacation right after Christmas so we had to find a different night to get together. Tonight was the night, and since Adrianna was going to join us, we ended up just having pizza at Katie's house.
There was a lot of catching up to do and it was perfect. Pizza is always a delicious meal, and there were lots of Christmas cookies to share too. Adrianna was adorable and I was able to give her the Christmas present I made for her.
She had more fun opening the box and tearing off all the paper then she did with the blanket, but hopefully she will enjoy it. By the end of the night when she was getting sleepy she was laying down half on the floor and half in the box with the blanket, so cute!
I love celebrating lots of little Christmases with all of my wonderful friends. Here's to one more day of work and lots more holiday celebrations!
December is such a hard month and I really threw a wrench into things when I decided to take a quick Hocking Hills vacation right after Christmas so we had to find a different night to get together. Tonight was the night, and since Adrianna was going to join us, we ended up just having pizza at Katie's house.
There was a lot of catching up to do and it was perfect. Pizza is always a delicious meal, and there were lots of Christmas cookies to share too. Adrianna was adorable and I was able to give her the Christmas present I made for her.
She had more fun opening the box and tearing off all the paper then she did with the blanket, but hopefully she will enjoy it. By the end of the night when she was getting sleepy she was laying down half on the floor and half in the box with the blanket, so cute!
I love celebrating lots of little Christmases with all of my wonderful friends. Here's to one more day of work and lots more holiday celebrations!
Sunday, December 4, 2011
reindeer run
Yesterday, I ran my first 5k that I signed up for all on my own, without the help of Girls on the Run.
Since 2008 I have been part of this program and I love every minute of it. I have run a 5k in the fall and spring every season with a group of girls and it is so rewarding. Seeing 10 and 11 year olds cross the finish, which they never thought would be possible, is awesome.
Before I became a part of GOTR, I never, ever ran. Like, never. So it was a big deal for me to finish my first 5k. Saturday, I participated in the 12th Annual Reindeer Run in Lakewood Park. Melissa, Anthony, Ben and I ran the race (somewhat) together. It was a little chilly at first but once we got going and the sun came out, it was the perfect weather for a race.
We all finished at just about 33 minutes, which isn't bad at all for me. I was happy with my time and glad that I ran the entire time. That is an accomplishment for me and I'm really happy that we all decided to run together.
We finished the morning with brunch at Borderline Cafe in Lakewood, which never disappoints. What a wonderful little December weekend!
Since 2008 I have been part of this program and I love every minute of it. I have run a 5k in the fall and spring every season with a group of girls and it is so rewarding. Seeing 10 and 11 year olds cross the finish, which they never thought would be possible, is awesome.
Before I became a part of GOTR, I never, ever ran. Like, never. So it was a big deal for me to finish my first 5k. Saturday, I participated in the 12th Annual Reindeer Run in Lakewood Park. Melissa, Anthony, Ben and I ran the race (somewhat) together. It was a little chilly at first but once we got going and the sun came out, it was the perfect weather for a race.
We all finished at just about 33 minutes, which isn't bad at all for me. I was happy with my time and glad that I ran the entire time. That is an accomplishment for me and I'm really happy that we all decided to run together.
We finished the morning with brunch at Borderline Cafe in Lakewood, which never disappoints. What a wonderful little December weekend!
Thursday, December 1, 2011
hello december!
When I turned the page on my calendar today I could not believe that it was actually December. The last month of 2011.
I feel like this year just started! So much has happened this year, and it has definitely had its ups and downs. At this point in the year, I know everything that happened did for a reason, and even if it is hard to think about sometimes, I am happy with all of the decisions that were made.
Today I received the first two Christmas cards of the season. It makes me think that I need to get my act together and get mine done. But then I realize that I have plenty of time still. With December comes the Christmas season, and I love Christmas. Not because of the presents, although those are nice too, but because of everything that it means. Because of the happiness that you see in the people around you. Because of the good cheer that is spread. Because of the time spent with friends and family, and all of the fun times that are to be had. Because it is the beginning of the new Church year, and there is even more to be celebrated.
Something else that I am very excited about is news that I got today. One of my very good friends just found out that she and her husband are pregnant! They haven't been trying very long and were extremely surprised that it happened so fast, but are so excited. This was such great news and I can't wait to start a new project to have ready as a gift for them! Now I just have to decide what to knit...and wait 2 months because they are going to find out if they are having a boy or a girl.
Welcome December and thank you for the great news!
I feel like this year just started! So much has happened this year, and it has definitely had its ups and downs. At this point in the year, I know everything that happened did for a reason, and even if it is hard to think about sometimes, I am happy with all of the decisions that were made.
Today I received the first two Christmas cards of the season. It makes me think that I need to get my act together and get mine done. But then I realize that I have plenty of time still. With December comes the Christmas season, and I love Christmas. Not because of the presents, although those are nice too, but because of everything that it means. Because of the happiness that you see in the people around you. Because of the good cheer that is spread. Because of the time spent with friends and family, and all of the fun times that are to be had. Because it is the beginning of the new Church year, and there is even more to be celebrated.
Something else that I am very excited about is news that I got today. One of my very good friends just found out that she and her husband are pregnant! They haven't been trying very long and were extremely surprised that it happened so fast, but are so excited. This was such great news and I can't wait to start a new project to have ready as a gift for them! Now I just have to decide what to knit...and wait 2 months because they are going to find out if they are having a boy or a girl.
Welcome December and thank you for the great news!
Sunday, November 27, 2011
busy weekend wrap up
What a wonderful weekend. I have so much to be thankful for, and this weekend was another reminder of lots of those things.
Friday morning at midnight I went out shopping with my mom and we were able to accomplish lots of Christmas shopping. I got home about 6 am and was completely exhausted but had a great time. We've been Black Friday shopping for a few years now and I can't imagine not being a part of that crazy hectic day.
When I got home at 6 am I went to bed (if you can call it that), slept for a few hours and then woke up and went to work Friday night. By the time I left you could barely make it through the bar without having your feet stepped on 20 times and a million people rubbing up against you. Why people pay to drink at a place that is wall to wall crowded is just beyond me. I don't get it!
Since I had slept so late Friday I was not tired enough to go to bed when I got home, so I started decorating for Christmas! As of right now all of the decorations are up and the tree is in the process. I ran out of lights so I have to stop tomorrow so that it can be finished (I love Christmas decorating).
Saturday morning we woke up and did lots of house chores. We had to paint the chipping wood on the garage door and the side of the garage, we cut back the rest of the rose bushes, and we tore out the attic insulation. Yes, a very busy morning/afternoon, but very productive!
I had the night off work so I went to dinner with my mom and sister, and then ran a few errands to try and finish up my shopping. I met up with Ben after he was done at work for a quick bite to eat in Tremont, and then we met up with Melis and Anthony for a drink. It was so nice to be out on a Saturday night like most of the other people our age. What a change from what we are used to!
Today started with church, then more errands, then brunch, and ended with cleaning up/organizing the house and a quiet little dinner here. I am so thankful for everything this weekend brought, and even more thankful for all of the other blessings in my life!
Friday morning at midnight I went out shopping with my mom and we were able to accomplish lots of Christmas shopping. I got home about 6 am and was completely exhausted but had a great time. We've been Black Friday shopping for a few years now and I can't imagine not being a part of that crazy hectic day.
When I got home at 6 am I went to bed (if you can call it that), slept for a few hours and then woke up and went to work Friday night. By the time I left you could barely make it through the bar without having your feet stepped on 20 times and a million people rubbing up against you. Why people pay to drink at a place that is wall to wall crowded is just beyond me. I don't get it!
Since I had slept so late Friday I was not tired enough to go to bed when I got home, so I started decorating for Christmas! As of right now all of the decorations are up and the tree is in the process. I ran out of lights so I have to stop tomorrow so that it can be finished (I love Christmas decorating).
Saturday morning we woke up and did lots of house chores. We had to paint the chipping wood on the garage door and the side of the garage, we cut back the rest of the rose bushes, and we tore out the attic insulation. Yes, a very busy morning/afternoon, but very productive!
I had the night off work so I went to dinner with my mom and sister, and then ran a few errands to try and finish up my shopping. I met up with Ben after he was done at work for a quick bite to eat in Tremont, and then we met up with Melis and Anthony for a drink. It was so nice to be out on a Saturday night like most of the other people our age. What a change from what we are used to!
Today started with church, then more errands, then brunch, and ended with cleaning up/organizing the house and a quiet little dinner here. I am so thankful for everything this weekend brought, and even more thankful for all of the other blessings in my life!
Wednesday, November 23, 2011
SOHO, Crop Bistro, good friends, and a new dishwasher
I have not done the best job this month of keeping up with NaBloPoMo. I've been trying...I really have. Instead of dwelling on what I didn't do though, I'm just going to keep writing whenever I do have the chance...like now!
Yesterday night was our November monthly dinner date. The girls drove out to the westside since I'm always heading east and we met up at SOHO in Ohio City. It is a fun little restaurant with great atmosphere and a pretty delicious menu too. I had the sweet potato bisque and fried green tomatoes, which I could have had another plate of if I had room.
After lots of catching up, they headed back east and I headed to Crop Bistro to meet up with Ben for a drink. We ended up staying out way later than I had planned and meeting up with more people than I thought possible on a random Tuesday night. It was a great night though, and it made me realize just how lucky I am for the wonderful people in my life.
I spent today doing my best to get everything ready for dinner tomorrow. I ran a few errands and then had to be at home because we were having a new dishwasher installed. The old one wasn't working right and instead of having someone come look at it, we decided we should just get a new one. Probably not the best idea because the guy who put it in said there was a part that had never been taken out of the new garbage disposal and that was causing it to not drain properly. Basically, we most likely did not need a new dishwasher. Right now, I'm trying not to think about that part, and instead focus on how quiet and nice the new dishwasher is in the kitchen.
Now it's off to bed to get some rest because we are hosting Thanksgiving tomorrow...yikes!
Yesterday night was our November monthly dinner date. The girls drove out to the westside since I'm always heading east and we met up at SOHO in Ohio City. It is a fun little restaurant with great atmosphere and a pretty delicious menu too. I had the sweet potato bisque and fried green tomatoes, which I could have had another plate of if I had room.
After lots of catching up, they headed back east and I headed to Crop Bistro to meet up with Ben for a drink. We ended up staying out way later than I had planned and meeting up with more people than I thought possible on a random Tuesday night. It was a great night though, and it made me realize just how lucky I am for the wonderful people in my life.
I spent today doing my best to get everything ready for dinner tomorrow. I ran a few errands and then had to be at home because we were having a new dishwasher installed. The old one wasn't working right and instead of having someone come look at it, we decided we should just get a new one. Probably not the best idea because the guy who put it in said there was a part that had never been taken out of the new garbage disposal and that was causing it to not drain properly. Basically, we most likely did not need a new dishwasher. Right now, I'm trying not to think about that part, and instead focus on how quiet and nice the new dishwasher is in the kitchen.
Now it's off to bed to get some rest because we are hosting Thanksgiving tomorrow...yikes!
Saturday, November 12, 2011
book club
I recently posted about how I finally have my best friend back in CLE. I am still so happy about this and enjoying all the time we get to spend hanging out and having fun.
While she lived in Columbus, a few of her friends started a book club. Since she had such a good time with them, she wanted to start one here. The group e-mail started and everyone got excited. I think she said there are 8 people who are all signed up, ready to read and drink wine of course, at our monthly meetings.
I am so excited for it to start. We were thinking after the holidays will probably be best, but I'm already looking forward to our first book!
While she lived in Columbus, a few of her friends started a book club. Since she had such a good time with them, she wanted to start one here. The group e-mail started and everyone got excited. I think she said there are 8 people who are all signed up, ready to read and drink wine of course, at our monthly meetings.
I am so excited for it to start. We were thinking after the holidays will probably be best, but I'm already looking forward to our first book!
Thursday, October 20, 2011
a monthly dinner and cleveland beer week
A quick little recap of the last two days:
Tuesday night I headed out to the eastside to meet up with Katie, Mary, and Kristen for our monthly dinner. It is always great to catch up with those girls. We talked jobs, friends, boys, husbands (theirs not mine!), weddings (for engagements that haven't happened yet), and everything else you could think of.
We spent a decent amount of time chatting about whether or not it is okay to have your wedding semi planned even if you are not engaged. More just as a joke than anything else, but don't all girls kind of know what they want in a wedding? And if you are in a serious relationship that is eventually headed down that road you have those conversations with your significant other. So why not talk about it with your girlfriends?
And good news...there is another baby on the way! It's new news so there's not much to share but we are all very excited for Kristen's expanding family.
Wednesday night Ben and I met up with Melis and Anthony to celebrate Cleveland Beer Week. We had dinner at XYZ the Tavern and it was delicious (aside from the meat and cheese board that is). Dinner was great, beer was delicious, and the company was the best as always.
I wish we had more time to celebrate Beer Week, but working weekends doesn't really allow for all the fun that we'd like to have. Oh well, going out to dinner on Wednesday works for me!
Yay for tomorrow being Friday!
Tuesday night I headed out to the eastside to meet up with Katie, Mary, and Kristen for our monthly dinner. It is always great to catch up with those girls. We talked jobs, friends, boys, husbands (theirs not mine!), weddings (for engagements that haven't happened yet), and everything else you could think of.
We spent a decent amount of time chatting about whether or not it is okay to have your wedding semi planned even if you are not engaged. More just as a joke than anything else, but don't all girls kind of know what they want in a wedding? And if you are in a serious relationship that is eventually headed down that road you have those conversations with your significant other. So why not talk about it with your girlfriends?
And good news...there is another baby on the way! It's new news so there's not much to share but we are all very excited for Kristen's expanding family.
Wednesday night Ben and I met up with Melis and Anthony to celebrate Cleveland Beer Week. We had dinner at XYZ the Tavern and it was delicious (aside from the meat and cheese board that is). Dinner was great, beer was delicious, and the company was the best as always.
I wish we had more time to celebrate Beer Week, but working weekends doesn't really allow for all the fun that we'd like to have. Oh well, going out to dinner on Wednesday works for me!
Yay for tomorrow being Friday!
Sunday, October 16, 2011
ben's first tailgate
We just got back from a very delicious brunch with Melis and Anthony and are headed out again to watch the games and tailgate at today's big event at Market Garden Brewery.
Before we go out I needed to post about Ben's first tailgate which was a few weeks ago (I know I'm totally slacking).
Anthony and Melis hosted a tailgate that was absolutely awesome! Lots of us met up and had some very delicious food prepared by our hosts. We enjoyed some beverages and all in all it was a beautiful fall day and we could not have had better weather.
I tried my best to document our fun since it is one of my new goals so here are some of the pics. (I'm working on figuring out how to better display pictures on this blog. Please bear with me while I figure it out. This will just be the boring old list of pictures.)
Yay for wonderful friends and for Ben's first tailgate. Let's hope the Brown's win today!
Before we go out I needed to post about Ben's first tailgate which was a few weeks ago (I know I'm totally slacking).
Anthony and Melis hosted a tailgate that was absolutely awesome! Lots of us met up and had some very delicious food prepared by our hosts. We enjoyed some beverages and all in all it was a beautiful fall day and we could not have had better weather.
I tried my best to document our fun since it is one of my new goals so here are some of the pics. (I'm working on figuring out how to better display pictures on this blog. Please bear with me while I figure it out. This will just be the boring old list of pictures.)
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| myself, hillary, and melis |
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| delicious stuffed cabbage |
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| thank you for the yummy treats! |
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| siblings |
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| I guess we are going to shotgun beers? |
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| one dollar pencils? yea we will take 5 of them please |
Yay for wonderful friends and for Ben's first tailgate. Let's hope the Brown's win today!
Sunday, October 2, 2011
my best friend is back
Yesterday was a wonderful little day, despite the gloom and rain that has been pretty much every day this fall.
In the afternoon I headed to the eastside for Adrianna's first birthday party. She was adorable as always and it was hilarious to watch her dig in to her smash cake. It was great to see my group of eastside friends because it is not that often that we all get together. (they have a really hard time crossing the threshold that is the eastside/westside)
Since I had to take the night off for the party during the day, I was conveniently able to celebrate the big 26 with Melis. She is officially back in the CLE. I cannot tell you how ecstatic I am to have her home. We thought we were going to have a nice group of people to go out with but it ended up just being the two of us and we were okay with that.
We had dinner here and it was delicious. I am never disappointed and give that place two thumbs up. Then we headed to the old MGB because I clearly can't get enough of the place.
After a few hours of talking and a few Pumkings, we headed home. This morning I remembered why it is much easier to go to work on the weekends instead of going out drinking. I had every intention of meeting up for brunch today but I just couldn't do it. I'm getting to old to drink all night and be productive anytime before 2 pm!
Instead Ben and I had a lazy Sunday with a very lazy dog. We made chili in the crockpot which was delicious and I'm so glad it is crockpot weather again! The parents even came over to enjoy dinner with us.
What a nice little Sunday. Here's looking forward to a great week!
In the afternoon I headed to the eastside for Adrianna's first birthday party. She was adorable as always and it was hilarious to watch her dig in to her smash cake. It was great to see my group of eastside friends because it is not that often that we all get together. (they have a really hard time crossing the threshold that is the eastside/westside)
Since I had to take the night off for the party during the day, I was conveniently able to celebrate the big 26 with Melis. She is officially back in the CLE. I cannot tell you how ecstatic I am to have her home. We thought we were going to have a nice group of people to go out with but it ended up just being the two of us and we were okay with that.
We had dinner here and it was delicious. I am never disappointed and give that place two thumbs up. Then we headed to the old MGB because I clearly can't get enough of the place.
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| I'll take one glass of delicious |
After a few hours of talking and a few Pumkings, we headed home. This morning I remembered why it is much easier to go to work on the weekends instead of going out drinking. I had every intention of meeting up for brunch today but I just couldn't do it. I'm getting to old to drink all night and be productive anytime before 2 pm!
Instead Ben and I had a lazy Sunday with a very lazy dog. We made chili in the crockpot which was delicious and I'm so glad it is crockpot weather again! The parents even came over to enjoy dinner with us.
What a nice little Sunday. Here's looking forward to a great week!
Sunday, August 21, 2011
a wonderful little Sunday
The end of summer (at least the summer break that I am lucky to have) is never a very good day for me. It is usually one of the worst cases of Sunday stomach that I get the whole year.
Today was much different though and I could not be happier.
We started the day with a delicious brunch at Luxe with two of my favorite people, Melis and Anthony. Since Melis is still living in Cbus (but will be here soon!) we always try to see each other when she is in town. Of course working the weekends at MGB makes that a little hard and that is why brunch is perfect.
We sat on the patio, even though it drizzled a little and had some delicious food. They even have a 2 for 1 drink special from 11 until 1 on Sundays, which is awesome! We had lots to talk about and catch up on and made sure to do so over a few breakfast cocktails.
The afternoon was spent lounging around in the yard with Breckyn enjoying the sunshine and relaxing.
We then met up with my dad and sister for an early (of course) dinner at the one and only Gene's Place which is so authentic it doesn't even have a website. I can't even begin to count the number of times I have eaten at this restaurant and it never gets old. I will take my children (which currently are not even in existence) there someday and absolutely look forward to doing so. Nothing says family time like a family owned diner with delicious food and awesome staff.
Ben and I came home and have been relaxing ever since. It was a wonderful little Sunday, and even though I'm never ready to go back, I feel pretty prepared to start work tomorrow.
Here's to another great, and hopefully quick, school year!
Today was much different though and I could not be happier.
We started the day with a delicious brunch at Luxe with two of my favorite people, Melis and Anthony. Since Melis is still living in Cbus (but will be here soon!) we always try to see each other when she is in town. Of course working the weekends at MGB makes that a little hard and that is why brunch is perfect.
We sat on the patio, even though it drizzled a little and had some delicious food. They even have a 2 for 1 drink special from 11 until 1 on Sundays, which is awesome! We had lots to talk about and catch up on and made sure to do so over a few breakfast cocktails.
The afternoon was spent lounging around in the yard with Breckyn enjoying the sunshine and relaxing.
We then met up with my dad and sister for an early (of course) dinner at the one and only Gene's Place which is so authentic it doesn't even have a website. I can't even begin to count the number of times I have eaten at this restaurant and it never gets old. I will take my children (which currently are not even in existence) there someday and absolutely look forward to doing so. Nothing says family time like a family owned diner with delicious food and awesome staff.
Ben and I came home and have been relaxing ever since. It was a wonderful little Sunday, and even though I'm never ready to go back, I feel pretty prepared to start work tomorrow.
Here's to another great, and hopefully quick, school year!
Thursday, August 18, 2011
pool days
Since I am lucky enough to have a wonderful job that gives me about 9 weeks off every summer, I busy myself with lots of other jobs so I stay out of trouble.
One of those jobs isn't really much of a 'job' other than the fact that I have to get up early and be there until four the two days a week that I babysit. It all started way back in the summer of 2003 after I graduated high school.
At that time there were 3 boys and another on the way. We spent the summer going to the zoo, playing t-ball, taking bike rides, and going to the park. I went off to college in the fall and returned the next summer. That year there were 4 boys and we spent most of the summer at the pool. The next summer came and another little boy came along. One more summer after that with 5 boys and plenty to keep us busy.
By that time they were no longer just a family that I worked for. They had absolutely become friends, like a second family that we celebrated birthdays with and had cookouts with when it had just been to long since we got together.
Last summer I was living on the westside again and asked if I could help out with babysitting. I thought it would just be fun and something for me to do a few days a week. We had a good time and surprise...their mom was going to be having another baby! Summer went by fast and I knew I would be back next year.
Fast forward to this summer. Six boys...three of which are old enough to take care of themselves and don't require me to do much of anything for them and three of which I actually watch.
It was a great summer that unfortunately has come to an end. They are an awesome bunch of boys to hang with, and I'm sure part of that has to do with the fact that I'm only there for 2 days a week. Long enough to have fun, not long enough for all the arguing to get annoying.
We spent the mornings lounging around the house and the afternoon at the neighbors pool. I already miss summer...why do you always have to go so fast? At least I have these adorable pics to remind me of the fun we had.
One of those jobs isn't really much of a 'job' other than the fact that I have to get up early and be there until four the two days a week that I babysit. It all started way back in the summer of 2003 after I graduated high school.
At that time there were 3 boys and another on the way. We spent the summer going to the zoo, playing t-ball, taking bike rides, and going to the park. I went off to college in the fall and returned the next summer. That year there were 4 boys and we spent most of the summer at the pool. The next summer came and another little boy came along. One more summer after that with 5 boys and plenty to keep us busy.
By that time they were no longer just a family that I worked for. They had absolutely become friends, like a second family that we celebrated birthdays with and had cookouts with when it had just been to long since we got together.
Last summer I was living on the westside again and asked if I could help out with babysitting. I thought it would just be fun and something for me to do a few days a week. We had a good time and surprise...their mom was going to be having another baby! Summer went by fast and I knew I would be back next year.
Fast forward to this summer. Six boys...three of which are old enough to take care of themselves and don't require me to do much of anything for them and three of which I actually watch.
It was a great summer that unfortunately has come to an end. They are an awesome bunch of boys to hang with, and I'm sure part of that has to do with the fact that I'm only there for 2 days a week. Long enough to have fun, not long enough for all the arguing to get annoying.
We spent the mornings lounging around the house and the afternoon at the neighbors pool. I already miss summer...why do you always have to go so fast? At least I have these adorable pics to remind me of the fun we had.
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| having fun in the sun |
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| jumping in the pool |
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| thanks for a fun summer boys :) |
Sunday, August 14, 2011
Trazfest 2011
Although summer is coming to an end and that makes me very sad (because I will miss the weather and not having to go to work everyday) this past weekend is one of my summer favorites.
Trazfest. Yes, this is a made up name for a wonderful weekend of good times with friends. It is so awesome and something we all look forward to as part of our summer and have for many years now.
It all started with parents going out of town for a vacation and Anthony deciding he should have a party. That was 9 or 10 years ago, (we kind of lost count) and we haven't stopped since.
We have upgraded to a lake house in Vermillion for the weekend instead of someones parents house because let's be honest, we are a little to old for that. We've been heading out there for 5 years now and it is always a good time.
Ben and I didn't go out until Saturday morning because of work, but the fest really begins on Friday. Saturday it's time for the boys to golf and the girls to enjoy some good wine and tasty food at Paper Moon Vineyards. After some separate we fun we come back together for dinner and other shenanigans.
This year our host decided a pig roast might be a good idea and of course we all agreed. After lots of research he realized that our best bet was a pulled pork dinner with lots of sides provided by Smokin Joes which might have been the best Trazfest idea so far.
After a great dinner and lots of games and laughs with friends we built a fire, had some s'mores and eventually crashed for the night.
For most, Sunday begins with breakfast at a tiny diner where the waitresses call you baby and honey. The food is good, cheap, and fast, so it always works for us. We head back to have a mass clean up, hang out for a little longer, say our goodbyes and see ya next years.
I had such a great time and am so happy to have the amazing group of friends that I do. I already look forward to next year and many more after that.
Trazfest. Yes, this is a made up name for a wonderful weekend of good times with friends. It is so awesome and something we all look forward to as part of our summer and have for many years now.
It all started with parents going out of town for a vacation and Anthony deciding he should have a party. That was 9 or 10 years ago, (we kind of lost count) and we haven't stopped since.
We have upgraded to a lake house in Vermillion for the weekend instead of someones parents house because let's be honest, we are a little to old for that. We've been heading out there for 5 years now and it is always a good time.
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| beautiful view |
This year our host decided a pig roast might be a good idea and of course we all agreed. After lots of research he realized that our best bet was a pulled pork dinner with lots of sides provided by Smokin Joes which might have been the best Trazfest idea so far.
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| some of the girls |
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| ben and myself, this was the best pic we could come up with |
After a great dinner and lots of games and laughs with friends we built a fire, had some s'mores and eventually crashed for the night.
For most, Sunday begins with breakfast at a tiny diner where the waitresses call you baby and honey. The food is good, cheap, and fast, so it always works for us. We head back to have a mass clean up, hang out for a little longer, say our goodbyes and see ya next years.
I had such a great time and am so happy to have the amazing group of friends that I do. I already look forward to next year and many more after that.
Monday, August 8, 2011
mary gets married!
Saturday was a wonderful day. Mary has been a friend of mine since I started college and she is one of my monthly dinner girls. She married her handsome husband Tom on a beautiful day out of the eastside of town.
The ceremony began at noon and she was an absolutely beautiful bride. I've never seen her smile so big or run so fast down an aisle. Literally, running down the aisle with her dad! It was too cute.
Ben and I had so much fun at the reception. We danced, we drank, and most of all had a great time with the new couple.
I wish them both nothing but happiness, love, and good health, and cannot wait to be a part of their new lives as husband and wife.
Congratulations Mary and Tom!
The ceremony began at noon and she was an absolutely beautiful bride. I've never seen her smile so big or run so fast down an aisle. Literally, running down the aisle with her dad! It was too cute.
Ben and I had so much fun at the reception. We danced, we drank, and most of all had a great time with the new couple.
I wish them both nothing but happiness, love, and good health, and cannot wait to be a part of their new lives as husband and wife.
Congratulations Mary and Tom!
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| the vows |
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| the new Mr. and Mrs. |
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| friends :) |
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| katie, myself, and kristen |
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| beautiful! |
Monday, August 1, 2011
well hello 26
Goodbye 25, goodbye July, hello 26!
I could not be a luckier girl. I had an absolutely wonderful birthday thanks to my family, friends, and of course Ben.
Since we work on the weekends, Ben took me out to a delicious Sunday brunch. Then we strolled around Crocker Park for a little while in the blazing heat and decided pretty quickly that it was time to go home. Ben did get a new bike though which is awesome because now we can ride bikes together!!
My parents and sister came over for a yummy dinner and cake. We ate, chatted, and opened presents. We were celebrating my dad's birthday too since that is tomorrow. I cannot wait to start reading this, which I plan to do tonight even though I'm already reading another book because I love love love Chelsea.
I also can't wait to use the new digital camera that my parents got me! I sure hope it takes pictures in light other than direct sunlight, which is why my old camera is not my fav at all.
Then Melissa and Anthony stopped over for some drinks to finish off my wonderful day. And they are moving back to Cleveland. I could not have received better news.
Here's to 26 being the best year yet!
I could not be a luckier girl. I had an absolutely wonderful birthday thanks to my family, friends, and of course Ben.
Since we work on the weekends, Ben took me out to a delicious Sunday brunch. Then we strolled around Crocker Park for a little while in the blazing heat and decided pretty quickly that it was time to go home. Ben did get a new bike though which is awesome because now we can ride bikes together!!
My parents and sister came over for a yummy dinner and cake. We ate, chatted, and opened presents. We were celebrating my dad's birthday too since that is tomorrow. I cannot wait to start reading this, which I plan to do tonight even though I'm already reading another book because I love love love Chelsea.
I also can't wait to use the new digital camera that my parents got me! I sure hope it takes pictures in light other than direct sunlight, which is why my old camera is not my fav at all.
Then Melissa and Anthony stopped over for some drinks to finish off my wonderful day. And they are moving back to Cleveland. I could not have received better news.
Here's to 26 being the best year yet!
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
we need more party rock anthem!
This past weekend I took Saturday night off to celebrate my friend Mary's bachelorette party.
I have known Mary since my freshman year of college but we did not become close friends until our junior year. She is part of what we call the 'fab four.' She is part of my monthly dinner group, that would not be possible without Katie our organizer. She is the second of the four to become engaged, and in two weeks be married.
We are all so excited for her and of course needed to celebrate bachelorette style. You know, go out, drink and party as if once she gets married she will never be allowed out of the house again. Buy lots of lingerie, as if most girls don't just sleep in boxers and tank tops 6-7 days a week. And of course, dress up with crowns, sashes, and some type of penis on you in order to distinguish yourself as the soon to be bride.
Yes, I do think some of these things are a little silly but it is all part of tradition and all a good reason for a bunch of friends to get together.
I made my first trip out to Madison where we had dinner at a winery, and then we headed back to the eastside and went out in Willoughby. I of course did not do the best job at taking pictures, but I did get two pretty cute pics to share.
A good time was had by all and Mary did not stop smiling. I cannot wait for the wedding and all the fun celebrating we will do!
I have known Mary since my freshman year of college but we did not become close friends until our junior year. She is part of what we call the 'fab four.' She is part of my monthly dinner group, that would not be possible without Katie our organizer. She is the second of the four to become engaged, and in two weeks be married.
We are all so excited for her and of course needed to celebrate bachelorette style. You know, go out, drink and party as if once she gets married she will never be allowed out of the house again. Buy lots of lingerie, as if most girls don't just sleep in boxers and tank tops 6-7 days a week. And of course, dress up with crowns, sashes, and some type of penis on you in order to distinguish yourself as the soon to be bride.
Yes, I do think some of these things are a little silly but it is all part of tradition and all a good reason for a bunch of friends to get together.
I made my first trip out to Madison where we had dinner at a winery, and then we headed back to the eastside and went out in Willoughby. I of course did not do the best job at taking pictures, but I did get two pretty cute pics to share.
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| the beautiful bride to be |
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| myself, kristen, and katie |
Monday, July 18, 2011
Taste of Tremont
Yesterday we rounded out a very busy working weekend with the annual Taste of Tremont. It was the first time we've ever gone and it was awesome!
Besides the fact that it was 90 degrees and I was sweating the minute I stepped out of the shower and did not stop until this morning when I broke down and turned on the air conditioning, we had a great time.
There was a ton of great food and even more tasty beers had by all. We were lucky enough to snag two seats at Flying Monkey where we ended up sitting for over 2 hours thanks to the great bartender we had who kept feeding up lots of delicious drinks. Jenna ended up joining us there and as we were leaving we met up with Tony who we don't get to see very often.
So we continued to eat and drink, ran into a few people from work, ran into old friends, and ended the night hanging out and tossing some bags at Tommy and Joe's new place.
All in all it was a great weekend. I did however fail to take any pictures that are even close to being worth sharing. I know, I know, I'm failing at my goal but oh well. We all had fun and are looking forward to the next summer festival to attend!
Besides the fact that it was 90 degrees and I was sweating the minute I stepped out of the shower and did not stop until this morning when I broke down and turned on the air conditioning, we had a great time.
There was a ton of great food and even more tasty beers had by all. We were lucky enough to snag two seats at Flying Monkey where we ended up sitting for over 2 hours thanks to the great bartender we had who kept feeding up lots of delicious drinks. Jenna ended up joining us there and as we were leaving we met up with Tony who we don't get to see very often.
So we continued to eat and drink, ran into a few people from work, ran into old friends, and ended the night hanging out and tossing some bags at Tommy and Joe's new place.
All in all it was a great weekend. I did however fail to take any pictures that are even close to being worth sharing. I know, I know, I'm failing at my goal but oh well. We all had fun and are looking forward to the next summer festival to attend!
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