I need to change it up

IMG_6644

2009-06-18T15:56:00.001-07:00

IMG_6644
Originally uploaded by Marlee McConnell

No Longer Here

2009-02-03T15:40:00.001-08:00

I didn't realize that when you came to my blogspot blog it didn't carry over to my new one. Please check it out, I've moved everything over.

www.smellydanielly.com

3.6.5.

2008-12-31T15:03:00.003-08:00

The boss just called and said we can leave early tonight. She also said I don't have to come in on Friday if I don't want to. Thank God! I would have been the only one here and that just would not have been fun.

I usually dread New Years Eve because I always get dragged to some big party I don't want to be at and there ends up being a million people I don't know and then the people I do know disappear. The last few New Years Eve parties have left a sour taste in my mouth.

New Years Eve as a kid was always fun. Darios family and our family always got together. We switched houses each year and we would bring over all these board games. Our moms made food for us and we would eat and drink (non-alcoholic beverages of course!) and play games until it was 11:59. Then we would rush and grab every pot and pan that we could find and go out side and run around banging them to ring in the New Year!

I have very fond memories of those times and often wish I could go back and spend New Years like that again. Staying up until 5 in the morning getting drunk and passing out on someones floor is not my idea of a good time.

Tonight we will somewhat we reenacting my childhood memories. With our plans being left to the last minute and a few ideas falling through a handful of us are heading over to Darios empty compound for some appys, drinks, Guitar Hero and more. I am so excited! It's a 5 minute drive from home. Everyone who will be there are good friends and I'm sure we will have an over abundance of food to eat!

It just makes sense to ring in the New Year with a group of friends I love in a relaxed and cozy environment.

2008 was a pretty sweet year with the majority of it being enveloped by the wedding and everything surrounding it. I am looking forward to 2009 being much quieter. Hopefully Chad and I can go on some weekend get-aways. My Mom and Dad got us a gift certificate for a weekend away of our choice which we are really excited about! I can't wait for trips! 2009 will be the calm before the 2010 storm and 5 million things we have planned.

So the next time you hear from me things will be a little different around here so have a safe and happy new years! I shall see you soon!

Ready? Rant.

2008-12-30T11:03:00.003-08:00

The City of Burnaby / Garbage Men

Alright so our garbage gets picked up at the beginning of the week. I can't remember exactly which day but for argument sake lets say Monday. So the garbage men come in their big truck to pick up all of our garbage on Monday and then all of our recycling on Thursday. Since last week was Christmas the garbage schedule got shifted and we went from having our garbage picked up on Monday to it being picked up on Friday. But wait!

Both Wednesday, Thursday, & Friday we had huge snow storms which piled our streets and ally ways with dumps of snow, which meant that there was NO way any sort of city vehicle would be able to get around our apartment building. This meant that our already 2 week late garbage pick up did not happen. Ok, not the biggest deal in the world, I was still able to dispose of the things I needed to dispose of. But wait!

Christmas usually produces a large amount of garbage with paper and packaging from toys and gifts getting chucked in the garbage. Not to mention the waste from food. Now because we were not home very much during those few days I was not able to really clean up all the garbage and papers until Sunday. When I went to take my two bags of trash to the shoot for disposal what do I see? A large sign informing me that the garbage bin was over flowing with garbage and that all shoots had been locked shut preventing anyone from getting rid of their garbage until the bin was to be emptied. And when might you ask, will this bin be emptied. Oh, well, not until the following FRIDAY!

So this means that our garbage will not have been picked up for 3 weeks, and all the garbage and boxes and papers that I need to throw out and recycle basically gets to accumulate in my hall closet until the garbage men decided to come get the damn trash.

I understand not being able to pick up garbage because of snow build up in ally ways, but now are ally is basically clear. They could come at ANY time! But no, we have to wait until Friday and I get to fume and explode every time I see this large pile of crap growing in my closet because I have to hoard my own garbage.

The frustration this causes me is ridiculous.

Someone give me the number to Tony Soprano's Waste Management Company. I need to take matters into my own hands.

Ugh.

Anyways, I was going to rant about 3 other things and then just realized the cause of frustration in all of them leads to one main factor. SNOW.

I need a shovel and a blow torch.

Christmas is Ova

2008-12-29T13:02:00.002-08:00

Its so hard to blog after Christmas because there are so many things that happened and so many stories to tell. I just never know where to start other then to ignore that it happened and to carry on with my daily business.

This year was quite successful. Even though there was really only a few things we wanted for Christmas we got an amazing compilation of gifts. So many gifts I don't even know what to do with myself.

It snowed tons every day. We got stuck numerous times trying to get out to White Rock for boxing day dinner at Chads Uncle and Aunts house.

Christmas Eve we went out to Midnight Mass as planned. The choir sounded amazing and I was so glad I went through with it. It started snowing during the Mass so Chad and I basically left right after. The weather looked bad and we had to drive to White Rock so there was no point in staying and drinking with everyone at my Uncle house. Not to mention I slipped on some ice and fell on my ass in front of everyone.

So we drove out to WR at 1:30 in the morning. We got to the house around 2:30 and instead of going to bed right away Chad decided to go through all his old Football cards that he found in his room. I didn't fall asleep until way passed 3 because I had Christmas songs stuck in my head. Not to mention my eyes were itching like I mofo and I couldn't figure it out, until I realized that we were most likely sleeping in a bed infested with Tractors fur. I always forget that I am allergic to Cats because I am never around them and they don't always bother me. That night I had a bad case of red puffy itchy eyes. Not good.

Christmas morning was good, though I was so tired from lack of sleep. We had a big breakfast and then opened a million gifts. I helped hand them all out which was fun. I'm efficient.

We hung around for a bit and watched The Song Remains the Same on Blue Ray. It was Chads Dads gift. I got bored with it rather quickly though because I don't do guitar solos and you basically have to be high to watch this movie. It doesn't make any sense. I did, however, realized why so many girls wanted to sleep with Robert Plant. He seduced me through the TV Screen.

We left in the afternoon and headed home where I passed out for a while and Chad showered. We went to my parents house at about 4:30 and opened gifts and had a small dinner with a handful of people. Mom served Lamb which I don't eat so I had potato's. They were good and I had a huge headache so I really didn't want to eat anything else.

Boxing Day I got up super early and walked to Metrotown to go to two stores and walked in and out. That is the ONLY way to do Boxing Day at Metrotown. People are nuts and stand in hour long line ups to get 10 bucks off yoga pants. The rest of the day I was feeling pretty lazy and watched 4 episodes of What Not To Wear. That was fun. In the evening we went to Chads uncles as I mentioned. Everyone cancelled expect us and Chads parents, so it was good that we did make it out there.

Saturday we just hung out. I did some laundry and then we headed downtown in the afternoon. We went to the Vancity Theaters to watch The Godfather on the big screen. I read about it on Miss 604 and so we bought tickets and headed down there. It was an awesome experience so I am so glad Rebecca blogged about it otherwise I would have never known! I loved every minute of it even though I've seen it a thousand times. I can't wait for #2 to come out!

Sunday I did a bit of shopping with the Parentals and then headed home and got ready for the annual Rossi Boxing Day Dinner, which wasn't held on boxing day this year but that doesn't matter. I will post those pictures tomorrow.

I'm not as exhausted as I was last year but maybe that's because I was pretty lazy this year. The fun hasn't ended though. Mikey is arriving tomorrow so we will have a week of adventures with him. I wonder if I could get Mikey and Patz to fight in a jello match. Humm...

Winter Pictures

Christmas Day & Presents Pictures

Snowed In

2008-12-24T11:36:00.000-08:00

So its Christmas Eve and we are basically snowed in. Everything that was suppose to happen today has been canceled, but instead of feeling disappointed I am completely content. It gives me the perfect excuse to sit at home and relax.

Chad has been outside for 2 hours shoveling snow. The odd thing is he actually enjoys it so hes having fun out there. Though I am sure his feet are soaking wet since he is only wearing runners.

Tonight is Midnight mass and is the whole reason why I joined my uncle choir and have been practicing every week. We went to the church last night for one more practice and the parking lot was a disaster. Nothing had been cleared from the last snow storm. My uncle phoned my mom this morning and said all the streets around the church are a disaster. He doesn't know if mass tonight will go through. Kind of puts a hitch in things but I guess all we can do is wait and see.

We are suppose to drive out to White Rock tonight, after mass, so more like 1:00 in the morning. We are spending Christmas morning with Chads moms side of the family. It's one of Chads favorite traditions so come hell or high water we will be there. I'm really looking forward to it so I hope we can make it out there. Chad calls my car 'The Snow Cat' so he thinks we can make it. The only tricky parts with be the side streets of course.

Moms all freaking out because all of her plans are ruined. Not to mention Steven went to Greece for Christmas from Turkey and hasn't called her at all. The last time she heard from him was Sunday when he arrived.

Ah well...Young and the Restless is on and I haven't seen it in so long so I am so lost. I think Eva from ANTM is on here. I need to figure out what the new story line is. There are so many new characters.

Here are some pictures from today...

Welcome to a perfect Sunday

2008-12-21T16:30:00.002-08:00

Its been snowing all day and all night. The roads aren't that crazy but I still don't want to go outside. I've already been out this morning.

We've spent the majority of the day cuddled up on the couch with blankets watching TV and surfing the web.

I plan on reading lots later on. Am so looking forward to that. Going to book mark some good recipes and try them out over the next few weeks.

I love today. I love not moving. I love doing whatever it is I want to do. Its so comfy and cozy. Chads going to light a fire and we are going to eat some pasta and its going to be a perfect night cuddled with a book and my boos.

I'm working Monday and Tuesday and then have the rest of the week off. I'm going to eat it up. Tubbing on Christmas Eve. Breakfast and Dinners on Christmas Day. Shopping at 8am on Boxing Day. Godfather Watching on Saturday and Family dinner eating on Sunday.

IT'S ALMOST CHRISTMAS!!!

Stop Coughing

2008-12-19T16:07:00.003-08:00

I've been too distracted. I'm spending too much time actually working instead of blogging. And then when I get the chance to blog I spend it fixing up the new one instead of paying attention to the old one. Oh well.

I guess I'll take a little Christmas break and come back fresh and clean for the new year. I don't have many days off over the next two weeks, but I will have enough to hopefully relax and hang out with the fam, so posting will be down to a minimum.

Tonight we are going out on a double date with Alicia and Adam. We want to go to Baci but apparently they are having 5 million Christmas Parties there tonight so it might be too busy. We've got a back up plan though. So excited for dinner with friends!!!

Alicia and I have eaten so much chocolate today. I'm actually getting sick of it. We are the only ones here and have been stuffing our faces off with all the free food in the lunch room. This is why I love Christmas time.

I actually can't believe its Christmas already. I remember thinking about it LAST year, what it would be like, our first Christmas as a married couple and now here it is. Crazy.

I have to clean up my desk a little bit here. There crap everywhere.

Alicia saw our little mouse friend in the lunch room today. She freaked out but not overly girl freak out. Since then I have had to accompany her every time she wants to go to the warehouse. Its kinda cute. Awww poor Alicia!

Trevor Linden night was amazing. It was really cool that we were able to be apart of it. It was even better to see our team pull off a win live! It was Chad and my first hockey game together. I learned that you can not talk to him when they are playing. Even more so when they are on TV. It was quite amusing.

Ok this post is a complete disaster of rambles. I gotta go.

Trevor Linden Night

Oh yea, guess where I am going tonight!?

2008-12-17T14:49:00.000-08:00

That is, if I can get home in this blizzard. Sweet Jesus.

Am so looking forward to baked potatos tonight. Drool.

2008-12-16T16:14:00.004-08:00

Pictures to make me smile since today didn't.

I think I should probably get it cut. I just can't bring myself to do it. I've gotten this far. I should just let it get to 'Homeless Hippie Disaster' length.

We metaphorically tied the knot.

So big and tough infront of them there mountains.

I look like an elf. Or just some ill positioned nut case.

We have to move Phyl into the bedroom since the Christmas Tree took over his spot. Now every time I lay in bed I feel like I'm living in the jungle. He's very invasive.

Quatchi matches our decor quite nicely. I made all the pillows. 'Cept for the brown ones at the back, they came with the set.

Everytime I look at this I think 'Aww Chads so cute'. Then I remember that the note's not about him but about my FACTORY boyfriend. So many boys. So little time. So confusing.

Thank you Costco for making boxes of Tea Bags. They last me forever. This box is also the only thing in the office the mouse DIDN'T eat. Yea. I still haven't told you that story.

A face only a mother could love.

...

This post feels very un inspired. Maybe that is because I am very un inspired today. Today has been a crappy day.

I have a lot of new pictures I wish to post but I think that they only make sense if each set has its on post.

I hope to eff around with this blog tonight. That is if Mr. C with grace me with his assistance. I've been contimplating Wordpress for over a year now and I think the only way to get my blog to look and function the way I want it to I will need to use Wordpress. I just have such an emotional connection with Blogger that I feel guilty leaving. Anyways, hopefully we can test it out tonight.

Honestly, who throws his shoe?

2008-12-15T15:10:00.003-08:00

This Saturday I actually proclaimed that I like Mondays more then Saturdays. This was because, like always, I didn't get nearly as much done on Saturday as I would have liked and everything I did do was in a big mad rush, which left me stressed and frustrated. Story of my life. I always think I can squeeze so much into a Saturday and that is never the case.

Saturday night we had two Christmas Parties. One with my Godparents & another one with Chad friends. We went to my Godparents (Darios Parents) for dinner and festivities and then headed out to Kits for the annual gift exchange where we play that game where everyone gets a number and you either have the choice of opening a gift or stealing a gift.

My gift got stolen like 15 times and every two minutes I had a different gift. It really sucked because some of my gifts were really nice and I want to keep them, Hello Lululemon gift card! I ended up with a bottle of Wolf Blass Red Wine, which just so happens to be my favorite so that was good, & Chad ended up with a book about some guy in the music industry. He was pretty excited about his book.

The most talked about gift however was a giant wooden rooster name Bernard. As you can imagine it produced some pretty interesting remarks. Everyone wanted to steal the 'giant wooden cock'. It was even in my possession at one point, but as you guessed it was stolen away from me. It would have made a pretty kick ass decoration at our entrance.

While at the party, we all seemed to not notice the large amount of snow compiling outside, so by the time we left at 2 in the morning everything had an inch and a half of white stuff on it. This meant going up hill was impossible as we found out and slid back down the hill trying to get to 4th. Luckily most of the main streets were cleared to some extent. We assumed that since Kits was a white wonderland, Metrotown would be much worse since we are quite a bit higher then everyone and always get a lot of snow. This, was actually quite the opposite, and both Chad and I felt quite jibbed that we didn't get as much snow. Damn you Kits!

Sunday we took it easy. Chad played a million hours of computer games and I finished up 3 loads of laundry, wrapped all the Christmas gifts, and wrote all the Christmas cards. I was going to go out to do some shopping but I had no motivation to get out of my pjs. It was nice to just stay home all day/night and be lazy while getting stuff done.

Tonight we are staying home as well, which I am excited about. All these parties and gathering are fun, but they really make you appreciate staying home and relaxing in your pjs with a glass of wine! Not to mention Chad just went out and bought a bunch of fire wood for the fire. I foresee a night spent cuddled on the couch watching Craig Ferguson make fun of George W and the whole shoe throwing incident.

Dry Dry Dry Dry Dry Dry Dry Dry

2008-12-14T21:08:00.005-08:00

The inside of my nose is so dry. I don't know what to do about it. If you have any suggestions please let me know. Its been driving me crazy all day.

I hate that no matter what, when I wear skinny jeans they always end up so loose and bunched at the knee instead of nice and straight. FAILURE SKINNY JEANS, you are a failure.

I look really bad in that photo. I got dressed in the dark, hence the over exposure of plaid. This is what happens when your significant other gets up after you in the morning and doesn't want lights turned on.

I'm up loading a whole wack load of pictures to flickr. So now I am waiting and bored.

The Christmas Cards are going out tomorrow.

I'm a little late.

Completely is used a lot

2008-12-12T08:50:00.003-08:00

It's almost pitch black outside. With the light on in the office, the glare it creates on the windows means I can't see anything outside except my reflection and the reflection of the office. Its snowing, Vancouver snow, hich means its half rain half snow. But the point is, I can't see it.

I just burnt my tounge on my tea. Damn you warm yummy tea. *shakes fist*

I got a txt from Chad while I was on my way home last night informing me that he would be home by 6. This put a little hitch in things because being as it was Thursday night I had to leave by 6:30 to go to choir practice. I figured I would try and get dinner started as soon as I got home so that when Chad arrived it would be ready on the table and I could scarf down my food and leave. Well, coming home at 6 turned into coming home by 6:15 which turned into just eat and go cause I don't know when I will be home. While I was a little frustrated I ate as fast as I could and ran off the choir only to be a few minutes late.

Instead of these choir practices getting easier they keep getting harder. Some people show up one day and then don't show up another day and when I am training my ear to pick up the sounds that the person beside me is singing and then the person beside me keeps changing I just end up sounding like a disaster and get extremely frustrated because I don't know what the hell I am singing.

The way its set up is there are two 'sets' of Altos, the ones that sit on the bench and the ones that sit on the chairs. I am right in between the two of them and last night there was no one directly beside me. The choir is filled with older people who all know each other and have been singing together. I feel complete out of place when I am there. I am young and quite and so damn shy I just sit there by myself not knowing what to do. I feel like a scared 12 year old.

My voice has been completely off that last two practices, its almost as if I can't sing like I use to. I can't hit the notes I've always hit. I have no power behind my voice and my ear is totally off. When I open my mouth and sing it doesn't feel like me. I can't figure out whats wrong. My throat is sore all the time, morning and night and the only thing I can think of that could possibly link all these problems is the lump on my throat. And thinking about it just makes me horribly depressed and worried that something is seriously wrong.

Near the end of the practice we were going over our most difficult piece. I was complete lost and could not hear my part what so ever. The conductor clearly saw my frustration and suggested that I move in between two very strong Altos, which is exactly what I needed. Instead of feeling rejuvenated by this I was horrified by my lack of ability to sing with out someone having to physically move me somewhere else. Everyone was silent and watched me move spots. I could feel my face go completely red. As much as I knew this change would benefit me I was totally embarrassed and I don't know why. The ladies were very nice and asked me my name and the whole time I felt like a little kid who just wanted to run away and hide. I was this close to bursting into tears.

The rest of the practice I felt completely defeated. I felt like it was too hard to go on. I felt completely out of place. I was in a horrible mood for the rest of the night, I just didn't know what to do with myself. I don't know why this whole experience is making me revert back to being a kid.

I am not looking forward to going back next week.

There are two practices left. I hope they go better then this one did.

I wish I was wearing my pj's right now

2008-12-11T08:49:00.002-08:00

This morning is beautiful. Its crisp and cold outside but the sun is out and is bouncing off all the frost. It makes me excited for Christmas. Even though the two aren't related.

We have nothing planned for Friday night and Saturday day so I am going to take every opportunity to sleep and cuddle and watch Christmas movies and just eat it all up. Its been a long time since I've had nothing to do on a Saturday, but with all the home reno's basically done, and all the Thank You cards out I am FINALLY left with Saturdays filled with what I want to do. I'm really excited about it.

I've been thinking a lot about what the future holds these day. We pretty much have the next two years of our lives planned out. Not written in stone but there are definitely somethings that have already started to be planned. Savings account set up for certain events. Information collecting for other events. And doors open for one very special project, something I've never mentioned to anyone before.

Since 2005 this blog has followed me through all of my life's events. Relationships, School, my first 'Real' job, family events, parties, weddings and much more. When I started this blog I knew it would be the about the one real thing I could talk about; myself. As self centred as that is I always found it interesting to keep track of all the things that happened to me. My blog really is like my diary. I am writing a documentary about myself.

The blogs that I love to read the most are the blogs like mine; stories about peoples lives. I've always been fascinated with biographies. I love learning about peoples lives and the things that happen to them, even if all they have to say on Monday morning is that they had Toast for breakfast and there dog kept them up all night. I find it all so fascinating. I love peoples history, and the paths they've taken in their lives. I love reading about their feelings and what makes them tick. It is one of my favorite things to read about. Wikipedia has become my new best friend.

So because of this, my blog will always be about my life. It will always be about what I am dealing with at that moment. It will follow me through vacations, and job changes. It will follow me through having kids and moving houses. When we go to Italy for a month, I hope to write every day about where we visited and what we saw. When we change houses, I hope to write about my feelings leaving the first place we ever shared together. When we have kids, I hope to write about my experience and excitement.

My goal is that in 20 years I can come back here and read my old stories. I can reminisce about old adventures. I can remember what it was like when I first met Chad. I can laugh at pictures of parties about Balls. I can smile at all the friends this blog has helped me gain.

I hope that as random as this blog can be it is still enjoyable to read. Even if there is no one out there to follow me and my stories anymore I hope to still write them. Because what has started out as something for you, has become something for me.

Wall Nut Chest Nut

2008-12-10T10:32:00.003-08:00

Life is in full swing. I still haven't really had a chance to recoup from the party on Saturday. Every night this week is jam packed with things going on and it leaves me coming home late and crawling into bed at 9 so I can get extra sleep. Screw all the messes on the floor. Ha.

We got up early on Saturday to start all the decorating, which in reality didn't take us that long at all. We have an over abundance of Christmas Tree ornaments because last year I went wild and bought 3 boxes worth at Ikea. The idea was to fill bowls with ornaments, which I did, but I still have a bunch left over. I like our tree to be filled with ornaments that mean something rather then a whole bunch of coloured balls. Ideally I would have a mix of both - meaningless coloured ornaments and fun things that we've made or got as gifts over the years. Currently we have too many balls. Sorry of my life.

We always thought we had too many Christmas decorations over all, but when we put everything up on Saturday it actually turned out to be the opposite. We have a gift card to Pier 1 and I think we are going to go buy some Christmas house decorations. Chads mom got some cute stuff there so I wanna check out what they have.

Over all the party was good. Everyone brought something so we had plenty of drinks and food and sweet things. Everyone made love to their balls exceptionally well, as you will see in the pictures. It was a fun night that left us somewhat exhausted by the end of it.

Sunday we spent the day at Chad grandmas house celebrating her birthday. After what felt like very little sleep and relaxation we headed out to South Surrey where all the girls did crafts and the boys all entertained themselves until dinner time. Chad went out and bought the rest of the gifts for the family so now we are totally done shopping for Christmas! Chads mom and I made beaded stars and my mom, who joined in on the fun, made some other ornaments with the kids.

I only made two things because I was feeling down right icky and the lack of sleep from the night before was hitting me hard. I basically almost passed out on the couch with a glass of wine in my hand. A class act if you ask me.

Dinner was good though and we showed everyone our wedding pictures on DVD. By the time we left it was 9 and both Chad and I were ready to fall asleep. I had the worst headache and my throat was not co-operating what so ever. When we got home I didn't even bother attempting to clean up the disaster from the night before and instead watched a Dateline NBC special on Charles Manson. Much more entertaining then cleaning up.

Monday night we went to the Reef for Claudia & Alicias belated birthday. I don't know how I feel about the Reed anymore. I mean every time I think about going there I drool with excitement, and then I get there and I stuff my face with plantain chips and then I think to myself 'I need to take a break from the plantain chips'. I dunno is that weird? Does that even make any sense?

Speaking of drooling I'm pretty sure I soaked my pillow case last night. But I can't remember if it was a dream or not. Humm...

TONIGHT IS COSTCO NIGHT!

Make Love To My Balls 08

Patz Post with the official pictures

I've worn these jeans 3 days in a row

2008-12-08T17:25:00.001-08:00

I'm not going to blog about the party. I don't have time today and I didn't upload my pictures yet. Patz got them on facebook and hopefully he will post them on flickr so I can show you all how to make love to a Christmas Ornament.

The weekend was busy and I've been feeling under the weather for a while now so I was pretty much exhausted last night. Chad as well since he hasn't caught up on sleep yet from Ottawa.

The place is a disaster because we had to move a bunch of stuff for the party and then we were out all day yesterday and nothing has been put back. There is also a huge stack of serving dishes that need to be washed at some point tonight. That and floor is disgusting. Such a pigsty.

We are going to the Reef tonight for Claudia & Alicia's birthday. I have to help Alicia finish these signs and then we are off to enjoy a plate of Plantain Chips & Johnny Cakes!

Bet your jealous!!!

I'm at a party

2008-12-06T22:52:00.002-08:00

There is lots of food. But its suppose to be that way. I'm Italian. I must over feed. Its in my blood. I actually didn't make everything I planned on making. There is a 1kg block of brie cheese still in the fridge. I think we started this too late so people aren't as hungry. Mental note for next year. Marlee brought lots of food too so that's good. I was worried cause the ppl who said they would bring food had to cancel so i thought we would run out be we didnt. holla.

Alicia. I miss you. Melissa. I miss you. WISH YOU GUYS WERE HERE.

Plus every one else who couldn't make it. ITS NOT LIKE I LOVE YOU LESS BECAUSE I AM NOT GIVING YOU A SPECIFIC SHOUT OUT. I just promised those two I would.

Its really loud in here. I lost my drink. I've got too much to do to worry about it.

Everything went as planned. We decorated everything with lots of time to spare. We have lots of tree decorations but not enough house decorations. That will change tomorrow tho. Score.

I really need some chapstick.

There is christmas music on in the background and rap on the computer. Its confusing.

I forgot what I was going to say. Demis interuppted me.

My hair is amazing tonight. I love straightening irons.

Ok I gotta go.

Bi love.

Is it 8pm yet?

2008-12-05T09:00:00.002-08:00

He comes home tonight!

I'm not picking him up at the airport. I figured there is no point wasting gas and fighting rush hour traffic when the government can pay for his Taxi ride home. I know that this is like blasphemy because I ALWAYS pick him up from the airport but I have so much to do tonight for the party tomorrow that it just doesn't make any sense. Had I stayed home today and gotten stuff done then I would have gladly driven out there tonight. Alas, this is not the case. I did find out however, that he has purchased an early Christmas gift for me which, I am led to believe, costs more then all the Christmas gifts hes bought me to date! Ohhh what could it be??? I'm so damn excited. I LOVE PRESENTS!

Tonight I need to go home and do the following...

Buy the rest of the ingredients for the amazing appys I'm making for tomorrow.
Start preping all the appys I'm making for tomorrow.
Finish painting the other sides of the doors.
Start taking all the Christmas decorations out of the boxes.
Possibly clean the bathroom?

Tomorrow we have to put up the tree and decorate that. Move all the furniture to fit the tree and have enough space for people to sit and mingle at the infamous 'Make Love to my Balls' Party. Clean up the disaster that will be a result of all the decorating. Do some major floor cleaning. Finish up all the appys, and try not to look stressed and tired and disaster-like for the party! Yay! These tasks are very daunting to me right now and I wish I was at home starting them all.

I felt super gross when I woke up yesterday morning. I had a very sore throat and just a feeling of over all grossness. I contemplated staying home but then I remembered that we were all going out for lunch because a co-worker is going on maternity leave so I figured I should show up for that. I made a plan that I would go to work and try and finish a bunch of stuff in case I was worse today and then I wouldn't feel so bad about staying home because I would know all my work is done. So I worked my butt off yesterday and got a bunch of stuff out and then I woke up this morning not feeling as gross. So here I am with all my work done for the day and its 9am.

No ones here today and those who are are leaving at lunch time. This will be the most painfully drawn out day yet. I should be at home doing stuff.

Oh yea. I promise to live blog tomorrow during the party like I did last year. Not that anyone really cares anymore. BUT I CARE.

Technicians aren't supposed to say anything

2008-12-03T16:09:00.006-08:00

Matt came over for dinner last night. We'll technically we both met at my moms house and she made us dinner. It was good times with my Dad bashed Britney Spears and my Mom telling stories about her works Secret Santa. It was quite enjoyable.

After dinner we accompanied the parentals to Shoppers Drug Mart because for some reason we always like joining them on adventures. I bought some make up and sang to Matt as he looked at me annoyingly. My mom had to mail the 4 billion Thank You cards from the wedding. A bunch had to go over seas and so she had to weigh them or something. Anyways, it caused a giant line up behind her.

We didn't do anything else after that. Matt hopped on the skytrain and I went home to wrap Christmas presents. I watched Tori & Dean Home Sweet Hollywood and cried again. That show always makes me cry I don't know why. I love them despite the way they dumped their Ex's to be together.

Tonight I have a bunch of things to do. I figured I would invite Pat along for the ride since hes at home doing nothing and I have a feeling if I go home I will end up watching hours of TV and won't be motivated to do anything. I'm always that way in the evenings, especially if its dark out, which it already is at 4:30.

Chad told Pat to keep his Jew Mitts off of me. Aww. Jew Mitts! I wonder what they would look like? They sound cute. Probably made out of a fuzzy blue fabric with a Star of David on them. Aww fuzzy mitts!

I talked to Chad a bit this afternoon before he headed off to the Pub for dinner. I wish I was with him because it would be a vacation for me unlike it being work for him. Plus, I love snow.

I think I am going to make us pasta for dinner, but with a cream cheese sauce and maybe some mushrooms and zucchini. Sounds tasty and now I am drooling. I'm sure Pat will take pictures of everything. People should hang out at the apt. more around dinner. I always make good food. Promise.

Tonight I need to go to Costco to buy stuff for Saturday. I need to re-paint the doors again and hopefully stain some wood. Clean the bathroom and maybe sweep the floors. Bring all the Christmas stuff up and start to figure out the lay out of everything. And then maybe I will have a shower and cuddle up in blankets to watch TV. Alone that is, not with Pat silly.

The heater smells like its burning something. I think that's my key to go home.

Pictures are from Sunday night waiting to pick up Claudia to go to the work Christmas Party. Just so you know.

Whip-crack went his Whoopy tail

2008-12-02T12:11:00.003-08:00

I said Good-Bye to my dear Husband this morning as he caught a cab to the airport off on another work adventure. I hope hes got the proper attired for brisk cold Ottawa. If not its not my fault. He doesn't own anything to combat frigid temperatures.

Hes left me many times before and for much longer periods of time. The only thing that will be weird about this is not having him there when I go to sleep and wake up in the morning. Alas, I am sure I will survive. Especially if he promises to come back with handfuls of gifts for yours truly.

I have been up since 6 and ended up coming to work half an hour early because I felt like it.

Right, so I went to el Doctors yesterday for my yearly check up dealio. I seem to be quite the healthy young whipper snapper, aside from my lumpy throat and ridiculous right breast. I had blood work done to check my thyroid and subsequent organs and all the results came back fine, as I predicted, so everyone can calm down. I'm not dying of some crazy thyroid disease. I go for an ultrasound this afternoon for the lump. The Dr. says that the results of said ultrasound should give him an indication of how to proceed with it.

Before I left his office yesterday he asked if there was anything else I wanted him to check out. I mentioned the cysts that I have on my right boob that I had checked by his assistant last year. At the time I was told that there was nothing I could do about them. They would grow and they would shrink and because they weren't cancerous they won't remove them. The one that's on the side doesn't hurt and I rarely ever notice it but the one on the top is the most annoying thing in the world. Because it rests against my chest wall /ribs you can see it protrude. It is the ugliest thing in the world and it hurts all the time. So I expressed my extreme frustration with it and asked if there was anything he could do about it.

(PatZ stop reading here or you will faint)

He took a look and saw how awkwardly positioned it was and the pain it caused me so he suggest draining it. I was all for this. So he grabs this honking needle, hold the area where the cyst is and with out any local anesthetic or anything plunges the son of a slut right in. Now I have a very high tolerance for pain, but sweet Jesus that friggin hurt. Anyways, hes swinging at me butcher style but the cyst isn't draining. So he pulls it out positions himself differently, and goes in for more, this time digging it in for one last ditch effort after hes already stabbed it in. How I survived is unknown.

So I'm laying there, cringing in pain and the bloody cyst will not drain. He asked if I wanted him to try one more time to which I replied, No Thank You. So after several attempts to drain the bane of my existence I lay there with holes in my boob which are now pouring out blood and nothing has been solved. Awesome.

His exact words were - "Well this guy is very Tenacious . Haha Tenacious D"

I was very light hearted about it all. I mean its not really his fault that my cyst is the spawn of Satan and doesn't want to die. Plus, I technically ASKED to be stabbed repeatedly.

Hes referring me to a Specialist of some sort who will be able to take a look at the lump on my throat and the cyst on my boob which, he said, will then be removed by another stabbing attempt or possibly cutting the damn thing out. I will pretty much do whatever I have to, to get rid of this thing, that's how much it bothers me. Bring on the pain bitches! The only thing I do hope is that the lump on my throat doesn't have to be removed so I don't have a giant scar across my neck.

Now you are up to date on my physical health.

You are welcome.

I'm not lovin you, the way I wanted to

2008-12-01T11:00:00.002-08:00

Hello Monday Morning.

It's "nice" to see you again. I think the only saving grace in today is getting to leave at 2:30 for a doctors appointment.

This whole "not feeling well" has lingered onto this week as well. Again, its like I'm sick but not sick enough to warrant staying home and getting better, its more of a long drawn out half assed sickness. So weird.

This weekend I was pretty much lazy. Saturday I just did not feel well at all and only did half of what I wanted to do because I could not bring myself to get off the couch. It felt like someone was sitting on my chest and I kept coughing. It was making me exhausted.

I did 3 loads of laundry and then forgot about the last load of sheets and towels. I'm such a knob. I will need to finish that tonight midst packing for Chad and cleaning and making dinner and finishing the last of the Thank You cards. Sweet Jesus.

I got my eyebrows done yesterday and while they have always been a bit weird yesterday turn out a little wonky. My right eyebrow is perfect but now my left one is shorter then the right one as in it ends before my right one does and it is driving me crazy! Usually there are a few hairs at the end which look a bit odd but extend my eyebrow to the appropriate length but she ripped them out so now I've got a stubby brow. Its making me mental.

Yesterday afternoon Alicia and I went to the last Portobello West of the season. They had some very cute stuff for sale and I spent the majority of my time oddeling over all the little felt creations and funny magnets. I swear to you I am 12 years old at heart. I was this close to spending all my money on the cutest arglye felt monster but then remembered that I have enough stuffed animals and if I buy any more people will begin to wonder about me when they come over and find shelves and shelves of plush toys. Ha.

We had our Christmas Party last night. It's held at my bosses house and everyone from the design department, warehouse, drafting department and stores comes over for a big party. They've got a huge house so it works well. They make all the food themselves and it is to die for. Alicia, Claudia, and I got there fairly early and we stuffed ourselves silly. I've never eaten so much food in my entire life. It was so good. I wish I could go back in time and eat more.

We left basically after dessert as Alicia wasn't feeling well and I was driving her home. I got home at about 10:30 and went right to bed but all the food that I had just consumed was making me delirious and I could not sleep. It was the weirdest thing. Not to mention I had that damn Kanye West song stuck in my head. (Chad downloaded his newest CD and now we are obsessed with it.) It did not make for a restful sleep at all. Damn you Love Lockdown.

Alicias got pictures from yesterday if you want to check'em out. They are at the bottom of the post. I didn't take any. Woops.

3 more hours of work people!

There was never a mob story written about The Altos.

2008-11-28T08:59:00.002-08:00

I'm wearing my long plaid winter jacket. I haven't worn it yet this season because I left it at the parentals and didn't get it back until last night. Its so much more cozier then the one I bought from work.

Chad went and got his hair cut the other day, but the lady who cut it left the front too long and it looked kind of goofy. Once I pointed that out he got all self conscious about it and bagged me to fix it. I used scissors not a razor though the experience DID make me think of Alicia and her little miss happ. Haha awww.

Ok story time...

After being lovingly harassed by certain members of my family to join the choir at my uncle church I finally gave in and went to their practice last night. I actually really wanted to join their choir from the beginning but the new season started up right after we got married and I knew I couldn't dedicate every Thursday night to Choir practice when I was still trying to organize myself and get a handle on all this 'house wife' stuff.

They have an absolutely beautiful choir and ended up making an announcement last week that they would be practicing song for Christmas mass so anyone who wanted to join in preparation for Christmas could do so. Its only 4 Thursday so I figured I could dedicate myself to that at the least.

Now in not knowing anything about this choir I headed down their last night waiting to see what it was all about. They asked me what range I sang in and I said Alto.

I was in an Italian choir for many many years and always sung Soprano because that's where all the girls - my friends - sang. The Altos were just a bunch of old Italian ladies. I was never really good at singing Soprano. I mean I trained myself for many years to do so but what I was really good at was singing at a lower octave. Finally when there was a conductor change in our choir I took the opportunity to move from a Soprano to an Alto. This meant re-learning all the songs I had sung for a million years. The Sopranos sing the melody and the Altos sing the harmony so it is very easy to get lost in what you are singing and end up joining in the melody which you are not suppose to do. This also meant that I could not longer sit with my friends but now had to sit with all the old Italian ladies.

I found it easiest if I situated myself beside a really strong Alto who knew the part like no tomorrow, then I could ignore what the Sopranos were singing and follow her. It slowly got easier over time, but it took a lot of time.

Last night as a warm up we sang a Christmas song everyone knew. So there I was sitting with the altos about to sing the melody when they all bust out in harmony. It was at that point I knew I was in over my head. Here I was thinking that there would be a bunch of old faces and new faces and we would be starting fresh when instead it was basically all regulars, like 3 new people and everyone already knew the songs, knew the parts, knew everything!

I started to panic. How am I suppose to learn the words and harmony to like 10 songs in four weeks not to mention the 2 songs in Latin with 3 more 1 hour choir pratices left??? This is going to be a challenge. I know it doesn't sound like much, and if I were singing Soprano then I really wouldn't worry about it but this is totally different. Not to mention I don't even get to sit with my Aunt because she is a Soprano and not an Alto. Ha.

What have I gotten myself into?

I love you cause your deuces are wild. And I am not referring to bowl movements.

2008-11-27T14:05:00.004-08:00

I put some yogurt in a container this morning and added some granola to it. Then I forgot about it. Now the granola is soggy. I'm eating it anyways. I don't know if that's a good thing or not.

I feel defeated by work today therefore I am being lazy. They say they aren't being petty but I can see right through it. I mean really, your going to be like this after I maned up and volunteered to pick up a giant pile of dog crap outside your front door because no one else would? Well, if you are going to be this way I guess I can too. I can't wait to see the reactions on their face when I say 'Oh yea, by the way, I'm going to Italy for a month...see you!'. Although I probably won't have to have that conversation with them for another 6 months.

Changes are going on in the office, though I have been told my job is secure. I'm not too worried about it. They will always need someone to order their zippers. The vibe in here is weird though. People don't know how to communicate. I emailed someone to confirm something and instead of them discussing it with me back they discussed it with Claudia and told her to tell me. Yes, because that makes a lot of sense. Now two other people have come up to me to talk to me about this thing instead of the original person. I just have to shake my head at the whole thing.

I've been spending the day reading old posts. That can be a scary thing so I only read posts during the years when Chad existed. I know those posts are safe. Sometimes when I read them I make myself laugh and then Chad makes fun of me for laughing at myself. I'm clearly my number 1 fan. My mom tells me, however, that I have a lot of spelling mistakes in my posts. I apologize profusely.

If I were to read this post out to you right now it would be done in a very depressing and monotone voice.

My favorite colour is Grey.

I gave Chad The Gum Thief to read. Its one of my favorite books. He says when he read it he laughed because the book is exactly like me. He understands why I like it. Its weird and depressing. Ha.

I love you Bethany. I love you Roger.

I've got leftovers agian.

2008-11-26T09:00:00.004-08:00

I've felt off all this week. It must be a combination of not getting enough sleep on the weekend and feeling sick-ish. I'm not sick enough to warrent staying home from work but I am sick enough that my head gets all fuzzy and I can't concentrate. Yesterday was almost a complete write off. I could barely function in the morning and got very little done. Today, however, I do feel better but still off. I dunno whats up with that. Maybe one of my 20 Doctors appointments next week can figure it out.

The evenings this week have turned out to be insane. Every night this week we have to quickly eat dinner and then rush off somewhere else. Chad is trying to get my Nonnas computer fixed but its beginning to be a huge thorn in my side. He perferrs that I accompany him when he goes there to fix it as sometimes my Nonna has trouble with her English and I help translate. I totally understand why he likes me there it just means that all my plans this week have been postponed because I have to go to my Nonnas every night to try and fix the computer. I'm just getting a bit frustrated with all of it.

Whenever I fax off a PO to one of our Vendors I always sign the bottom D Ciavarro. I never write my full name cause its way to damn long. Anyways, everyone who I deal with knows my name is Danielle. A bunch of them got confused when I started signing Ciavarro instead of Rossi and wouldn't send me my packages until I explained that I was the same person I just changed my last name. Yesterday I recieved a package to the attention of Davarro. Yes, because thats exactly what my name is. I'm assuming someone who doesn't know me sent me the package and attempted to make out my signature.

I made Pesto sauce from scratch last night. The best damn pesto sauce ever. But maybe thats because there was 300 lbs of garlic and cheese in it. You put garlic and cheese on anything and I will eat it. Chad even complimented me on how much better it turned out then the last time I made it. Go Me!

B tagged me so here are the 6 things that make me happy...

Waking up to the sun.
A glass of red wine and a plate of pasta.
Stuffed Animals
Puppies
Snuggling with Mr. C.

I tag...

I now get to sit here next to the print that is printing out 500 gift certificates and choke on used toner fumes. God help us all.

Quan Tastic

2008-11-24T09:20:00.002-08:00

My weekend was long and busy and I feel like dictating everything that happened to me for your enjoyment. I'm predicting a rather long post so I am going to warn you. But at the same time if you loved me you would read it anyways because you find my life so unbelievably entertaining...

My Nonna somehow got this huge debilitating virus on her computer that was screwing everything, so Chad being the computer genius and her newest Grandson decided to try and take a look at it. His first attempt was on Thursday which failed. His next attempt was Friday night which was a bust and waste of 3 hours. We didn't get home until 10. LAMO. So now hes got to go back tomorrow night and try again.

We got up early on Saturday morning and I drove Mr. Ciavarro to the airport so he could fly off to Calgary. On my way home I debate going to get my blood tested because I was worried it would be super busy and I would end up wasting the day waiting there. In the end I didn't really want to miss work so I headed over there. I was warned that it was super busy but when I got there the majority of the seats were taken up by peoples spouses so in reality it was half full and took me a total of 30 minutes to get in and out. I was so happy.

I hadn't eaten yet so I headed over to the Metrotown food court and picked up some Starbucks. Winter/Christmas is my favorite Starbucks season and I'm not sure why. I will ignore it for 9 months of the year and then Winter comes and all I can think of is Peppermint everything. I ended up getting a Peppermint White Chocolate Mocha which was amazing and their ever so delicious Chocolate Croissant.

The mall had just opened so there was barely anyone there. They were playing Christmas music and it was the nicest feeling in the world. Walking around with yumminess in hand in a not so busy mall with Christmas all around me. It was quite poetic.

I headed over to Home Outfitters and bought a few things for the house and my Dads Christmas gift. It was super heavy so I went and dropped it off in the car. Then I headed back in, in search of Mr. Ciavarros Christmas gift, and ended up finding everything I was looking for. It was one of those days where you are in the perfect shopping mood and everything works out for you. It was glorious. I picked up everything I wanted to get it and I even found something super cute by fluke. I can't wait for him to see it!

I went into Winners/Home Sense and ended up finding the cutest Christmas Cards and Wrapping paper all on sale. I was so excited! It was making me totally fall in love with Christmas.

After that I headed home and was on a shopping / coffee high. I was so hyper I decided to wrap all of Chads gifts and figure out how much I spent on him. Then I ordered some stuff online and was going mental with excitement. It was super early in the day too which got me even more excited because I knew I could get a million things done.

I quickly had a shower and then went on a cleaning spree. I think I've mentioned it before that when I go on a cleaning spree and no ones home I always turn the TV on so I have some sort of companionship. The only problem is Mrs. Procrastinator over here takes a million breaks while cleaning to watch whats on the TV and then I never get anything done. I wanted to avoid that this time so I grabbed a bunch of my favorite CDs and put them on. I was giddy and hyper and cleaning and singing. You should have seen it.

So I cleaned every nook and cranny of the entire place. It looked beautiful. I even cleaned out the Vacuum which was full of my 12 feet of hair. That was a little bit of a disaster.

I had two hours before I had to leave for Alicias Birthday party so I decided that I would re paint all the doors. HA. I know. So I went down to the storage locker and found the paint. 2 cans of wall paint, one Venetian Plaster, and one white. I grabbed the white with out looking at it, mixed it all up and proceeded to paint. I was finished in record time and then got ready for the party. Got dress, Marlee came over and we left. Everything I wanted to get done was acomplished.

Headed over to Adams for some pizza and drinks. It was so cute to see them together I wanted to cry. I know I'm a girl but you have to see them interact to understand. It is the cutest thing ever and you just know they are meant to be together.

Alicia ordered this pizza with potatoes on it which looked weird but tasted amazing! I can't wait to have it again.

After spending a few hours there chatting and drinking we headed out to catch the skytrain and head downtown. I ended up running into people I knew and was in the chattiest mood ever. It was very unlike me.

The club was a little dead up it didn't matter because we had so much fun with all of Alicia's friends, chatting and drinking and hanging out. There must have been about 50 of us all together.

When we first got there these two guys came up to us and started talking. One was super short and bald and the other one was tall with a long pony tail. They decided that their way to 'pick us up' would be to analyse us and then tell us what they think. It was friggin hilar. The bald guy did all the talking and this is what he said about me. I dress very simply but fashionable and the only thing that wasn't simple about me was the huge diamond I had on my hand (which he referred to a million times). He said that I looked very sure of myself but when I stand I tend to stretch out parts of my body which he think I do in order to get attention. I have no idea what he was talking about. Then, just before we got interrupted he said that I was beautiful but wear too much make up which either means I am trying to be fashionable or I am hiding my insecurities. This I laughed at because the only make up I wear is eye make up and while it was dark that night I was going out to a club which usually goes hand in hand with darker eye make up. I was so friggin amused by this guy that I actually wished I could have talked to him longer just to see what crazy stuff he would come up with next.

Over all the night was a lot of fun. It was weird not having Chad there and everyone kept asking me where he was. I've met a hand full of Alicia's friends before but none of them have ever met Chad, and since we are Alicia's only married friends we are like a novelty. Alicia was 'slightly' intoxicated but she looked like she was having a blast. It was such a fun time I actually didn't want to go home.

By the time I did it was after 2 and I headed straight to bed. I kept having dreams that I was still at the party so I could sleep at all. The I woke up at 6.30 with horrible stomach pains. Not like I wanted to puke because I was so wasted but almost like gas pains. Weird and gross I know. Anyways I think I got a total of 5 hours sleep before having to get up at 9 to start my day.

I was feeling a little under the weather on Saturday so that added with the few drinks I had that night meant I felt horrible on Sunday. All I wanted to do was sleep and take a nap but I had to run around the whole day and I hadn't eaten anything proper and I was disaster. I went to go give blood with Marlee but I am now banned from doing so for a year because I went to Playa del Carmen and apparently that means I am at risk for contracting and spreading Malaria. Great!

I picked up Chad from the airport last night and we went home to watch Tropic Thunder which I actually really enjoyed. I mean Robert Downey Jr. playing and Australian who was playing Black Dude, I could not stop laughing. By the time the movie was over it was 10pm and I was done for. The second my head hit the pillow I was out like light.

Such a busy fun weekend. If only Mr. Ciavarro was there to enjoy it with me.

I can't believe how long this post is, especially since I left out like 5 stories. Oh well.

Alicias 22nd Birthday.

Let me show you my neck

2008-11-20T09:48:00.003-08:00

I wore my hair down today.

My usual routine is to have a shower in the evening and then either let my hair dry naturally, or if I'm proactive and not lazy I blow dry it a bit. As a result most Mornings my hair is half wavy and all over the place. This means I either wear it pinned back or in a pony tail. Today, however, it only looks better down.

It was pointed out to me a few weeks ago that I have a rather large lump on my throat. I honestly never realized it before so I didn't know if it was suppose to be there or not. I was convinced that it was just part of my throat or something until one morning I took a closer look. While it didn't hurt or bother me at all it did not look totally normal. We'll, it wasn't like I had this huge goiter sticking out of the side of my neck, but more like a really big Adams apple. It moves every time I swallow.

Realizing it probably shouldn't be there I pointed it out to Chads mom who is a nurse. She said it looked like I had an enlarged Thyroid Gland, which wasn't a serious thing, especially since I wasn't feeling sick or any of the symptoms associated with Thyroid issues, but she did stress I see a doctor about it.

I was feeling very nonchalant about the whole thing and really didn't want to have to miss more time from work to go to the doctors again since I had already been twice last month and had an appointment coming up on the first of December.

After both mothers continuously asked me if I had gotten it looked at yet I finally phoned the Doctor to see if I could make an appointment. The soonest they could get me in was Dec 22nd, which was a waste of time since I was already going Dec 1st and figured I would point it out then.

Yesterday my Mom accompanied my Nonna to the doctors office and after chit chatting a bit the subject came up that I had tried to make an appointment to get this lump checked out but there were no times available. He inquired what the lump looked like and when my Mom told him it was an enlarged Thyroid he immediately paged his Secretary and had her create an appointment for me today at 5.

I don't know if this speedy reaction is just him accommodating one of his patients or if he thinks there is something seriously wrong. I do come from a long line of lumpy people. The Rossi's and cysts go hand and hand. I have a handful on my body to prove it. Hopefully everything turns out alright, especially since I was so nonchalant about the whole thing.

I think Chads going to ask for a rein check on this whole marriage thing. Me and my 1200 medical issues. And I always thought he was the broken one in the family what with his wonky knees and alien toes. Apparently not.

I just discovered a scar on my ring finger

2008-11-19T15:41:00.004-08:00

I spent the majority of today ripping out broken zippers from a bunch of dresses. While it was mostly relaxing and made the time go buy quickly, by the end of it I was so bored with ripping zippers I wanted to scream. There were probably a million more important things I could have done today, alas I had to de-zipper dresses. But anyways.

I had a horrible sleep last night. My stomach was upset and I couldn't find a comfortable position. I got up to go to the bathroom at around 2:30 and when I got back to bed Chad had cuddled up to my side of the bed leaving me with 6 inches to sleep on. Every time I get up in the middle of the night and come back to bed he somehow realizes I'm not there and then takes over my side. If he wasn't so cute I'd poke him repeatedly.

When I fell back alseep I had a dream that I was Monica from friends (becuase in reality I am) and I was dating Pierce Brosnan but he was in his late 70s. He was still super hot but really really old and wrinkly. I kept calling him Bond. He had a 7 year old daughter who would follow us. We made out but it was kinda creepy because of how old he was. A little odd.

I have no idea why I had a dream about him or what it meant. The last thing I watched before going to bed was Band of Brothers and Seinfeld so I have no idea were Pierce Brosnan fits in.

He is pretty hot but I'm a little creeped out.

Eye Candy

2008-11-18T08:45:00.003-08:00

This weekend was calmer then others. We had family dinners both Saturday & Sunday night but they didn't run late and we were able to make it to bed fairly early both nights. It was nice not to be rushed through the weekend while at the same time getting things done.

Chad is going to Calgary this weekend so it will be weird going to sleep and waking up with out him there. Not sure how that will go over. I always sleep better when I know hes right there beside me. It makes me kind of dread him going to Ottawa.

I've started writing all the Thank You cards from the wedding. I really want to get them done and over with so I don't have to worry about any more wedding stuff. We figured out which pictures we are going to put in with the Thank You cards but my Mom keeps changing her mind as to which one SHE thinks looks best. Its making me slightly mental because really, does it matter what picture we send to people? If they dislike it so much they can go print one on their own.

I printed off a couple of the professional wedding pictures and figured out a pretty cool display with them all. I organized 7 frames on one of our walls and made a kind of Photo Feature Wall. It makes me really excited every time I look at it. I want to try and add to it as time goes on but I think Chad will put his foot down and not let me make anymore holes in the walls.

Each little thing we add to the apartment makes it feel more and more like home. Hanging things on the walls, be it art or photos, is vital to making a space feel like a home. I don't like apartments that are stark with no personality and nothing on the walls. They don't feel like home. They feel like a temporary space for living.

Speaking of photos, here are a couple from our Italian Thanksgiving at my Godparents house this weekend.

My hair is getting super long. Longer then its been in years. I'm thinking about getting its trimmed and possibly highlighted in the New Year. I'm not quite sure what to do. I wasn't going to get it cut until Marlee pointed out that the tips of my hair are most likely 4 years old. Shes probably right so its probably time to get them snipped off. Having hair on my head thats been there for 4 years is weird to think about. The oldest hair on Chads head is 4 weeks.

Italian Thanksgiving

I need to get my eyebrows done

2008-11-14T16:13:00.002-08:00

It's 4:00 on a Friday and I am fading fast.

I have to rush home to hopefully dinner on the table.

Then its Scotch Fest time. Yes its that time of year again. My 3rd visit to the house of Scotch. A bunch of the guys were suppose to join us but tickets sold out before they got the chance. So its just Chad, Pat & Me. And I don't even drink Scotch, so its kind of a waste. OH WELL. I'm their DD which is the most important thing.

I am hating my face right now, but just the right side. I don't understand where this came from. I feel really ugly every time I look in the mirror. Sorry, its just really pissing me off.

YAWN. Omg I am so exhausted for some reason. Physically, mentally. I just want to sleep.

My hair is all over the play. I look like a drugged out model. Its got a very odd consistency hap pening. I wish you could see it. I ve been obsessingly cutting off all the blond hairs.

Yesterday I was requested to work with Alicia to put together some outfits for our website. You know that just turned into us having way to much fun. We got the job done but not with out goofing off a bit. I mean what do you expect. Here is the result...

I feel gross and I can't figure out if thats because I am starving or if its because of the fruit source bar I ate. It looked a little funky but maybe thats what it is suppose to look like. How should I know.

Chad is ignoring me for Pat and Guitar Hero. Damn him.

Photo Op.

Don't say Shut Out.

2008-11-13T11:06:00.002-08:00

My face is turning into a Pizza. It became more evident to me today when Alicia took pictures of me. It's quite unfortunate. That and my hair dried really funny the last time I washed it and it just looks weird to me.

I made a Red Pepper, Feta Cheese, Roasted Pin Nuts dip last night & a Bacon Spinich dip. The Bacon Spinich dip when like mad. Dario said there wasn't enough bacon in it. I said there was too much. It took me two hours to make everything but it was worth it and I enjoy it. I'm Italian. I am suppose to offer you way too much home made food when you come over. It's in my blood.

The Canucks lost but then again they ALWAYS loose when we all get together to watch the game. We jinx them. We get so excited to finally all get together and eat food and watch them game and then they flush it down the toilet for us. Not cool.

It was nice to finally get together with Sonia, Juliana, & Darren though. We don't see them enough. I think we might crash there football party this Saturday.

I think I am going to go home tonight and eat the rest of the red pepper dip and then puke my guts out because of how rich it is. Ha.

I was so exhusted by the time everyone left yesterday. Thankfully I did all the dishes and stuff before so I don't have a pile waiting for me tonight. I always dirty way more dishes then I need to when I'm making food.

I've totally lost my train of thought in this post. But thats ok. You won't read it anyways.

I've gotta go to Costco tonight to pick up some pictures and apparently go for a Contact Fitting even though I've worn contacts before. I don't understand. All I want to do it buy a pack from them but instead I have to go through this whole process of getting fitted and getting checked out and yadda yadda. I'm kinda annoyed. Its going to be a mad house trying to get there at this time.

Lets hope I am in and out.

Hockey Night VAN vs. COL

25 zippers at a time

2008-11-12T09:04:00.004-08:00

If I don't blog first thing in the morning it takes me forever to finish a post mid day. The mornings are quiet. I get here half an hour before anyone else so I always use that time to catch up on emails and organize myself. Its also the perfect time to blog even though I rarely take advantage of that.

I've also got into the habit of drinking a cup of Earl Grey tea every morning when I get to work. It all started back when we had no heat and I needed it to warm me up. Now I just like it as a nice cozy treat in the morning.

As much as we in Vancouver are used to rain every day of our lives, this whole gloom and doom weather we've been having the past few weeks has affected me much more then usual. Yesterday felt weird. It felt like a Sunday but it was a Tuesday. It totally threw me off balance. Monday didn't really feel like a work day because I knew I was getting Tuesday off so it feels like a really long weekend with Monday missing. I don't know how to explain it. Yesterday just felt depressing. I think that's what I am trying to get at.

I've never missed Summer so much in my life, and I am not a Summer person. I am much more a Fall and Winter person. I guess this year just felt like a bust. One because Summer came so late, and Two because I felt like I barely got to enjoy it with every moment of my life being consumed by wedding stuff. I hope next Summer is much more eventful. I really miss it being light out until 9pm.

Its Hockey Night at the Ciavarros tonight. I've made one of the two dips I plan on serving tonight. I slightly made a disaster while doing it. I mixed everything in my little hand held food processor thing and it just barely fit all the ingredients. Like I said. Slight disaster. It was 8:30 by the time I finished the first dip and the second was way more complicated so I saved it for tonight in my mad rush to eat dinner and set up the place before everyone comes. The house is pretty clean though.

I love being a hostess.

Oh and I still have Darios Birthday pictures to post. Mental Note that one. Oh yea and the Banquet. What have I been doing with my life?

At least im not in Bastogne

2008-11-11T16:56:00.003-08:00

I've finally caught up on almost everything. Finally. There are still a few more bits that need to be done but I need a break. I'm so exhausted today.

We went to the Confederation Park Cenotaph today for Remembrance Day as we do every year. I froze my butt off as usual. It was super rainy and cold. I wore these old runners I have had since I was 14. The Brittany Spears edition Sketchers. I swear I didn't know that when I bought them. Anyways, I think they have finally bit the dust. I love them and wore them because I knew it would be muddy and wet but by the time we got home my feet were completely soaked through. Not a good scene.

Chad is in the middle of his Band of Brother marathon. Between that and Call of Duty I am so sick of hearing guns and warfare. I can only imagine what it would feel like to live it.

Since today is a lazy day we most likely won't have a full out proper dinner. I'm thinking maybe some spaghetti covered in a thick white cheesy cream sauce. Yummm. Chad can have leftovers. I mean I already made him cookies.

Ok thats all for today. Back to floor cleaning.

Oh and of course a very Happy Birthday goes out to one of my best and oldest friends. Happy 23rd Dario!

a Mile a Minute

2008-11-07T09:32:00.002-08:00

I'm bursting at the seams with ideas and plans and motivation.

We've made a list of home improvements and slowly but surely have been doing bit by bit each weekend. The only problem is that we always sleep in on Saturdays and then by the time we get up and start our day we accomplish one of the 20 things on the list and then its time to get ready to go out Saturday night. This weekend will be different however. Chad is actually motivated enough to get up early and tackle a huge chunk of the list. This makes me excited because there is nothing like checking off something on your To Do List that has been there for a year!

Aside from this list of home improvements we have organized a few events in the next few weeks that I can't stop thinking about.

Next week is Hockey Night at the Ciavarros which we have been meaning to do for ages and the old crew is actually coming out for it which is super exciting. I've already started planning the menu last night and I think I've got some pretty good ideas. The only thing that's stressing me out a little is the seating layout which I might just have to improve this weekend. I think a trip to the Bay for some essential pieces might be necessary. Oh and maybe I can make some pillows at my moms this weekend too. Humm good idea!!! Now I need to figure out how to fit that into the schedule.

Other then that we plan on keeping a low profile this month after the craziness of last month. We went to Costco & Safeway last night and spent close to $350 on food and a few bathroom items. A little insane for 2 people but the fridge and cupboards were actually empty and every thing we buy food wise we make sure to eat before we buy more. We are a low waste family with good taste in food, hahah.

The next big thing to look forward to is our annual "Make Love to my Balls" Christmas Party which we've already started planning. I'm stressing out about it a little knowing the amount of people who have already replied to as coming and knowing how crammed we are all going to be in the apt. with all the Christmas decorations up and everything. I am going to have to figure out some sort of lay out plan. It's already consuming all of my thoughts.

I always get this way. Obsess over some random event that's way far into the future and I feel like I need to have it all done and organized now. Haha maybe I will go to Ikea tonight and buy some stuff for the party that's a month away. I think we need more candles. HA.

Anyways, as you can see my mind is racing a mile a minute and I am having another one of those "I wish I was at home organizing stuff instead of being at work" days. I'll see what I can do over here on my end.

I think I just changed Dinner & a Movie Night to Dinner and lets go buy stuff for parties night. Oh the humanity.

Oh Hey its Wednesday

2008-11-05T23:00:00.000-08:00

Last night we headed out to the Big Sisters 2008 Volunteer Recognition Event at the Sutton Place Hotel. Our company sponsors Big Sisters so we were all invited to attend.

The event started at 7 but we wanted to head down there early to get a drink at the bar before hand. Now in seeing as this event was going to be a dessert buffet I wondered when I would have the chance to eat dinner.

I tried to finish my work early so I could go grab a bite before heading down there but that failed and I ended up working longer then rushing to get changed and ready to go. I attempted to eat an apple as to have something in my stomach so that it wouldn't be full of booze all night long.

So we head down there and made our way to the Lobby Bar. We found a nice cozy seat in the back corner and order drinks. Claudia, K, and myself were the only ones there so we went ahead and ordered a glass of wine. We were originally going to share a half liter but then realized that wouldn't be enough so we each chose a glass. I had 3.5 seconds to glance at the Red Wine list and proceeded to order the Sauvignon as that was the first thing I saw and assumed I would be brought a Cabernet Sauvignon. I mean I WAS looking at the RED wine list and there were only 5 choices.

The waitress comes back and proceeds to pour me a glass of Sauvignon Blanc, which we all know is White Wine, which we all know I don't really drink. Not that I don't like White Wine but after having glasses of Red Wine almost every night for dinner my palate just prefers it. That and being so use to the heaviness of Red Wine, the 'lightness' of the White Wine makes it taste/feel like water to me.

The girls looked at me with a strange look because they know that I don't drink White Wine and urge me to send it back. I just assumed it was my own fault because I truly didn't look at the Wine List that carefully. That, and it seemed like an honest mistake. Sauvignon Blanc vs. Cabernet Sauvignon. I didn't really specify. So it was fine, I drank my White Wine.

They served us a bowl of nuts which we all fought over since none of us had had any dinner. My White Wine was gone in a matter of moments, because of the whole 'it tastes like water' thing and it was starting to go to my head. Remember my stomach had been empty since 2pm and the only choice I had as a snack was a chocolate bar from Halloween.

All while this is going on Chad is keeping me updated with the current score in the election. I had briefly mentioned one lunch hour while discussing the Big Sisters Event that it was the same night as the election but no one other then me seemed phased by it. However, last night it was a different story. Every time Chad messaged me I was to report to everyone what the new numbers were. It was quite funny actually.

So we are drinking and chatting and being updated. K's husband E finally joins us and shortly there after Alicia. By this point Claudia still had a half a glass of wine but K and I were finished. E wanted to sneak in a quick Martini before heading off to help out at the start of the event so the waitress asks if anyone else wants anything. I answered no, but she suggested that K and I share a glass of White Wine which with out me knowing was agreed apon.

I was slightly concerned by this in knowing how chatty I get after a few too many, however, I kept it very professional. And too be honest, I think I was more nervous about drinking with my bosses the anything.

Once we were all done with our drinks we headed upstairs to one of the smaller ballrooms for the event. In the middle of the room there was a feast of chocolate and cakes and fondue. It was amazing and our mouths instantly started to drool. Alicia and I were a little concerned about whipping out our cameras to take pictures of everything because this was after all, a relatively classy event. That and my camera is currently broken so I had to use Chads huge ghetto one.

So we filled our plates and stuffed our faces and then watched all the presentations that were going on, all the while receiving texts from Chad on the election. Once Obama finally won Chad was freaking out. He even sent me a message say "Oprah & Stedman Sighting!!!". I mean, who says that? What 30 year old straight man says that?

An official announcement was even made in the middle of the presentations and the whole room cheered. They also had a small TV in the cornor playing the life coverage on CNN. I think everyone was a little obsessed.

Anyways, after the presentations we found ourselves a table and sat down and chatted a while. We were the last ones to leave, so with our belly's full of food we all went our separate ways.

On the way home I was still craving dinner because technically I had skipped it and went straight for drinks and dessert. I made a pit stop to Mc Donalds and picked up my most favorite thing in the world, a Cheese Burger Meal. Otherwise known as the "All Canadian Meal". I even picked up a little something for Chad. I'm such a nice wife!

So there we were at 10:30 at night stuffing our faces and watching CNN. It was magical. I was sad that I had missed the election all live on TV. It would have been so amazing to watch with Chad sitting on the couch. Le sigh.

It's still amazing to think that each of us is now a part of history. We were there when the USA elected their first Black President. Its just so damn exciting!

On a totally unrelated post note I found this website. If you are really bore tonight watch this. It takes a second to load, unless they are off air. Its addicting. Chad constantly updates me on what they are doing. So cute!

PUPPIES!

Yip Yips shedding

2008-11-03T15:32:00.002-08:00

Halloween, halloween. Another year come and gone.

As I said on Friday, there were no bigs plans or anything going on, just some quality time hanging out in our half fast costumes.

I left late Friday because I got caught up in girl chat so I felt rushed the whole evening. I quickly ran home and put on my "costumes" then loaded the car full of stuff and went over to the parentals for Moms birthday dinner. With Steven being away in Turkey its weird going over there for dinner and it just being us. Always just a table for 4.

Chad was in charge of handing out candy again this year. It was cute of course. He tries to have conversations with the kids and all they want is there candy.

After dinner we went to Marlees and ate food, watched Chad & Dario swear at hockey, played games, and view a Rob Zombie movie I never wish to see again.

I was very proud of this genius idea.

Chad & Pat

Chad just finished milking the cows and I just finished my shift at the lumber yard.

Thats a real piece of glass in her head.

Mr. Italia is spaghetti.

The games were fun but the boys cheated and so they won. The only reason they cheated tho is because we weren't watching the timer so they kept gaining points when really it was our turn. So technically it was our own fault, but still. Headbanz was good but some of them were hard and it took people forever to figure out what they were so we quite that game somewhat early.

Tonight we are at the parentals for dinner again so Chadly can set up their computer. The rest of the weekend was very Italian. I'll post all that tomorrowsss.

Halloween 2008

You enable my laziness. Have a great weekend.

2008-10-31T15:53:00.003-07:00

I went to the dentist this morning and they scraped and picked at my teeth so badly that 6 hours later my teeth and jaw are still in a crazy amount of pain, so much so that it has now given me a huge headache. AH RAGE. I am so not happy at this moment in time. I will however, try and get over my issues to bring you a decent post.

Wednesday night Matt and I went out for his birthday. We went to this sushi place right beside the apt. - Isami Sushi - that a friend from highschool owns (I think). I've never been but my brother always talks about it. The food ended up being super yummi. I didn't know what half the stuff on the menu was so Matt ordered everything and we shared. It was all amazing and you could tell the place was popular because people were constantly coming in and out.

Happy B-Dizzle Matt!

"Don't piss me off"

Deep fried Tofu

Seared Tuna

Shrimp Salad

Scallop & Tuna Rolls

California Roll

Talkin' business

"I'm Full"

After dinner we walked over to Metrotown and did a bit of shopping. I bought Chad 7 ties from the Bay because I am crazy and might have a slight obsession with ties. Anyways they were all on sale (but still expensive) and I used the Bay card we still have with money on it from the wedding. Clearly I got really excited and went a bit over board, but they came to about $200 which I thought was a great deal because the ties ran from $45 - $65 regular price. Chad liked some but wasn't too impressed with all of them. I think I am just going to have to force him to wear them anyways, because I love them ALL.

So in love with these ties.

Last night Dario & Marlee came over. They boys watched the PPV and we girls went to Zellers to pick up some things for our Party of 5 tonight. Actually I think its a party of 6 but none the less. Everything that was Halloween was on sale - SCORE - and I got really excited with buying Halloween themed bowls and napkins. I will have to take pictures of it all.

I bought Chad and myself suspenders for our costumes. I think I am actually just going to start wearing suspenders because really, they are cool and I want to bring them back into fashion.

We aren't going crazy tonight. There it too much Italian Business going on this weekend that we have to go to/help out at and there is no sense in being hung over tomorrow because we will regret it greatly.

Happy Halloween Heathens!

Unicorn Down

2008-10-29T15:20:00.001-07:00

Yea so its Wednesday and I have finally caught up with everything going on at work. That makes me feel fabulous.

We had a busy weekend.

Friday night Neil came over for dinner and then we all went out to the cambie for Ryans birthday. We didn't see any trannys but we did get to watch Ryan try and talk to every girl in the bar and Demis running around freaking out about everything. That was highly entertaining.

We ordered food as is tradition at the cambie and it was so damn tasty. Patz had TWO plates of chicken strips and fries which Marlee and I stole from him. They were cooked to perfection. Then Marlee & I shared the Red Pepper Dip. OMG to die for. It surprises me EVERY time how good their food ends up being.

We ended up heading home somewhat early as all the boys were going out again Saturday night for Ryans real birthday and everyone wanted to take the skytrain home.

Saturday I cleaned out the whole bathroom and washed the bathroom and kitchen floors in preparation for sealing the slate which I did last night. I also uploaded a million pictures to flickr in an attempt to create an album full of wedding pictures that were taken by friends and family. Its slowly coming together and there are a million repeats I don't feel like deleting.

Saturday night Marlee & I got together with Alicia for some quality girl time. We headed down to Commercial Drive where they were having their annual Parade of Lost Souls. Basically they close down a section of the street and you walk around. There are people dressed up in costumes and little events going on everywhere. It was really neat to see.

So we walked from the skytrain station to the other end of Commercial to put our names on the waiting list at Reef - you know our most favorite restaurant ever now. Just as we were doing that we noticed that Claudia from work had her name down for reservations too. Clearly we were stalking her.

There was a 40 minute wait so we decided to walk around taking pictures of everything while we waited. We planned it out that next year we would get a whole group of us together and dress up and join in the Parade which is not really a Parade. We ended up getting some great ideas by watching everyone.

When the 40 minutes was up we headed back to the restaurant where we ran into Claudia and her friend Claudia who had just arrived for dinner. We ended up sitting on opposite sides of the restaurant but chatted through txting.

Our two favorites. Plantine Chips above & Johnny Cakes below.

Since we originally had other plans for the evening and the Parade was more of a last minute add on we didn't really spend much more time walking around and ended up just walking through everything back to the skytrain where we hopped on, arrived at the apt. and then drove to Alicias house for our PJ Party.

Once there we attempted to find a movie all of us wanted to watch but it just turned into a session of making fun of me for having never seen more then half the movies Alicia had. Hahah I know I'm BAD!

We watched the best of Will Ferrell and then I fell asleep. Hahahaha. So lame, but it was 12:30. We ended up chatting a bit and then Marlee and I headed home with an arm full of movies that Alicia insist we watch.

Sunday was most lazy and most perfect. We decided to have McDonalds for lunch and for some reason we both decided to get the healthy sammiches. Now there is no point in going to a greasy food joint and then ordering the healthy meal, and my meal proved that. While it was tasty and healthy what I was really craving was a cheese burger and I have no idea why I didn't just order that. Lame on my part. We did however win a free Root Beer & Small Fries with Monopoly.

The rest of the day we just puttered around. I did some laundry and Chad fixed his computer. I watched a few of Alicias movies and basically just lazed around. It was exactly what I needed.

It seems the busyness is carrying over to this week and weekend with every night already booked. Craziness!

Ryan Warners 31st Birthday!

Parade of the Lost Souls

Am I done here?

2008-10-28T16:20:00.001-07:00

I've been trying to catch up on a few things at work which means no time for blogging. We finally got the heater fixed so now I can wear normal clothes and not 4 sweaters, 2 scarves, and mittens everyday. I will blog tomorrow. I promise.

I got 99 problem but my chi chi's arn't one

2008-10-24T16:45:00.001-07:00

Actually they are one.

Yesterday I had to go back to the doctors to get my scar removed. Weird I know.

When they removed the mole on my breast the test came back saying that the mole was fine but there were some active cells around it meaning that if it was left longer it would have eventually turned into Cancer. So as a precaution my Doctor wanted to go back and remove some more of the skin around it just to be sure. That and my scar healed all wonky and he wanted to re due it for me.

So now I am left with a slice that is twice the size of the original one with 5 stitches holding everything together. Who knew such a little mole would leave such a huge mark.

I tired showing Chad but he got freaked out and said I looked like Frankenstein. Thanks for the support babe!

While I was on the cutting table my Doctor looked at my nose and asked me what happened. I laughed and replied that it was a giant cold sore that consisted of 6 individual fever blisters. Oh yes it is that pretty. He was worried that because the cold sore was so big and placed in an awkward spot it could get easily infected. So he proceed to give me a prescription for Valtrex which he insist I take right away. And, if you remember the TV commercials you will know that Valtrex is mainly taken for Genital Herpes, although, as I gather from their website, is also used for Shingles and Cold Sores. So I can only imagine the assuming looks I would get going to have this prescription filled. Then he asks me if I get cold sores often to which I reply - Yes. So he says he'll make it so I can get my prescription refill able. Great now I can look like some girl who constantly gets herpes and needs drugs.

My face looks a lot better then it did a couple days ago so I might hold off on the drugs. That or I will just go tomorrow and point out that I have a cold sore to the pharmacist. If I can speed up this process it mght just be worth the funny looks.

None the less I am going to put a paper bag over my face tonight and head out to the Cambie to celebrate Mr. Ryan Warners 31st birthday. I have to admit I am super excited to go and see everyone tonight. Its been so damn long since I've had a Cambie post!

I need some new pictures. Clearly.

Thanks for the black eye

2008-10-22T12:38:00.005-07:00

Ugh I feel like blogging again. Plus this little hottie punched me so it gives me something to blog.

5 things I was doing 10 years ago:

Oh gawd now I need to do math...10 years ago...2008...1998...

1. Starting my first year of High school. Gawd I'm so young.
2. Attempting to adjust in a huge public school where I didn't know anyone after spending years tucked away in a private school where I knew everyone.
3. Babysitting on weekend.
4. Trying to convince my Mother that flared jeans were an essential part of High school fashion and not just the latest trend that would fade away next year.
5. Obsessing over the WWF and Shawn Michaels return.

5 things on my to do list today:

1. Make Tacos for dinner.
2. Smother my cold sore in Abreva.
3. Bring my Aunts computer to her house.
4. Upload friends pictures of our wedding to Flickr.
5. Finish ordering notions for the second group of Spring 09.

5 snacks I love:

1. Toasted Rye Bread and Cheddar Cheese. So random.
2. Chips and Salsa.
3. Bread sticks.
4. Leftovers.
5. Crackers and Sour Cream. Another random.

5 things I would do if I was a millionaire :

1. Buy a house in the British Properties, or somewhere in North Van with an amazing view and lots of property.
2. Buy a VW Beatle because I would look cuter in it then in a Ferrari.
3. Go shopping. Obvs.
4. Buy a Beagle because I will have a house and enough space for him to run around.
5. Tour Italy top to bottom.

5 places I’ve lived:

1. Burnaby
2. Burnaby
3. Burnaby.
4. North Burnaby.
5. Central Burnaby.

I've only ever lived in two house. Both in Burnaby.

5 jobs I’ve had:

1. Babysitter. I some how only babysat for rich families. I got $10 an hour and sometimes more!
2. Filing & Office work at my Dentist office. Worst job of my life.
3. Office Assistant extraordinaire for many companies all owned by one amazing woman.
4. Bootlegger Sales Associate. I so kicked ass at that job.
5. Design & Production Assistant for a local fashion company.

5 people I punch:

1. Krista
2. Marlee
3. Melissa
4. Phaedra
5. Naomi

5 Smelly Minutes

2008-10-22T10:18:00.003-07:00

I actually have a million things I could be doing right now but instead I have decided to not do them and blog for 5 minutes. Because that makes sense.

Its 10:20 and I am still so freaking cold that my hands find it hard to type. I'm been sitting on them trying to warm them up but the blue dye from my new jeans are turning them blue, which only makes them look like I am dying from coldness.

My cold sore looks more ghastly today but the medicine is helping it along quite a bit. I pray to God it goes away in time for the banquet.

I had a dentist appt. scheduled for 7am tomorrow morning but because of the cold sore I had it postponed until Halloween. A little weird yes. I mean who goes to the dentist on Halloween the candy eating fest of the year? But its way better then having to get up at 6 just to be at the dentist at 7. I don't know why I booked it so early. I really was not thinking.

Is it weird that two years ago this time Chad and I basically started dating and two years later we are married!? Its so crazy when you think about it.

Ok Lining and Binding are calling my name. Hopefully I will be able to take off my winter coat by 11am.

Later.

Cold Sore Explosion

2008-10-21T09:18:00.003-07:00

The left side of the inside of my nose has been feeling funny that last few days and so assuming it was a cold sore I jumped on it with some Abreva. This morning I woke up with the right side of my nose engulfed in a rather large cold sore. Sweet! I'm pretty excited about it!

I bought this cool looking address book the other night at Chapters and decided to fill it in with addresses from our wedding invite list last night. Chad thought it was the biggest waste of time because he prefers to do everything digitally, but I've always wanted to have an address book full of friends and family. The only thing I am missing from everyone is their phone numbers.

I think we are super close to figuring out our halloween costumes, but I am not giving away any clues. If we do the easier one I've already got everything set. If we do the harder on I've got to get my butt in gear for it. I've got so many ideas rolling in my head now.

Ahhh my stupid cold sore is driving me nuts!

I have to go back to the bank for the 3rd time todays because people are stupid. I went there weeks ago to change all my account info with my new last name and address and all that so I could get new cards and I wait and waited and nothing happed. I phoned them up and they had no record of a change occuring or anything. SO frustrating. I swear the lady I gave my info to was not even paying attention. Anyways, they said for me to go back to the bank and re submit all my info. So I did that yesterday but they required some info from Chad since his name is on the account as well. I have to go back today with the rest of the info so HOPEFULLY this can all get changed over and I can finally have cards that say the right last name. You would not believe how much trouble I have had over the past few weeks with using my original cards and then people wanting to see my drivers license and not having the names match. Its such a pain. Once I get that done I will have to figure out why none of my other cards have been changed yet even though I sent in request forms weeks ago. This is such a pain.

The tip of my middle finger is freezing. Is that normal?

You're worth more than this

2008-10-20T09:24:00.003-07:00

I remember those days. Dark and cloudy and depressing. Lonely and sad.

One of my best friends is going through a break up. She is devastated and everything she is going through reminds me of the dark days post break ups. The worst feelings in the world. Feeling like you are in this sink hole that you will never get out of. I know the feelings all to well.

I wish there was something I could do to make all the pain go away. I've been thinking about her situation from the moment I got word there was something wrong. I can't stop thinking about it.

Sense and Sensibility was on last night. I caught it at the point when Willoughby breaks Marianne's heart. I couldn't help but relate that to the current situation. My heart sank.

This whole thing is making me feel really down and its not even me who is going through it. Its like I'm having sympathy pains. Every time I hear from her I want to cry.

Maybe I'm just being over dramatic but my heart is just breaking for her.

Gangsterism

2008-10-17T11:48:00.003-07:00

I had to get up at 630 this morning in order to meet Alicia and Claudia downtown at 8. We attended a WGSN Trend Report to learn all about Spring 09 & Fall 09 colours and trends. I use to go to these things every year because they were provided by the school. Thankfully our company paid for all of us to attend this year.

Its always at the 'Fashion Events' where I totally feel out of the picture. My clothes are so practical and half of the stuff I wear, I wear to keep warm because I'm always cold. And maybe its a ridiculous statement to make when I say I need to start buying some unpractical pieces but that's the way I feel. I'm so full of basics. I dunno. In the 'real world' I am ok with my style and my look but at these events I feel out of place. Not entirely, but theres definitely room for improvement.

But then again does it really make sense to change who I am and what I am comfortable with just to 'fit in' with a group of people I don't really associate with and only see a few times a year? Do I really need to match that hard core fashion crowd when I myself am not a hard core fashion subscriber? These thoughts always run through my head when I'm at these events. I am constantly re thinking my wardrobe. Thankfully I have the flexibility and allowance to do so.

I am such a nut bar.

On a totally un fashion related topic I am srsly coming down with something. My throat feels deathly and its causing the rest of my body to feel deathly. Am SO tempted to go home early today. I need drugs and a bed. I am getting worse people.

And I have no idea where Chad is.

Electronics take over our lives

2008-10-16T09:18:00.003-07:00

Ok so the whole new TV new computer turned into a bit of a disaster last night.

I stopped off after work to buy some fresh bread for dinner when I get a phone call from Chad telling me that he tried hooking his computer and it kept crashing so he was going to go back to the place that build it to get it fixed. This in turn meant that all our plans for the evening would be shot because of how obsessive he gets over his computer.

I walk in the front door and there are boxes and computer parts everywhere. The place is a computer battle field. I walk into the bedroom and there are boxes and clothes and crap everywhere. A hammer in the bed under covers and a beautiful wide screen TV perched up on the dresser.

I decided to have a shower while I waited for Chachi to get home and then snuggled in bed watching the new TV instead of cleaning up, because, why not.

So he FINALLY gets home and tries out his computer again and its still going crazy and so hes going crazy cause he doesn't know whats wrong with it and yadda yadda yadda. I start cleaning up and making dinner. We were having pasta which is usually Chad favorite thing to make.

Every time we have pasta we have bread and dip it in oil and vinegar. So I go to grab a piece of bread, dip it, eat it, and apparently breath in through my mouth at the same time as the piece of bread enters my mouth causing the bits of vinegar on the bread to fly back hitting my throat and I'm assuming my air way because the second it did that my throat started burning and I started choking. Like violently burning and choking and coughing. So my body thought in order to solve this issue it would produce obscene amounts of saliva to calm everything down which just meant that I was drooling everywhere. It was a sight to be seen. I was freaking out because of the pain and all the drool and I didn't know what to do but cough to try and relive the pain. Chad comes running thinking I'm dying or something. I pretty much was.

Eventually everything calmed down but my throat was clearly damaged. It killed all night long, which went nicely with my right knee which decided to give out earlier in the day causing it to be painful to walk (I forgot to mention that). I was a disaster. As per usual.

After dinner Chad was still fighting with his computer but figured out it had to do with his old keyboard and mouse. So he went out to Future Shop to get a new set and I sat wrapped up in the couch. For some reason the whole throat burning incident made me actually feel like I was coming down with a cold. I felt so gross that I quickly did the dishes, cleaned up a bit and then snuggled the rest of the evening away in bed while watching TV (this is pretty much something I've wanted to do every night of my life). This TV is going to make me into the biggest sloth.

Here I am watching Supersized vs. Superskinny.

For some God forsaken reason I was obsessed with watching DOG and sat glued to the TV for an hour. Maybe it was because they were trying to track down some giant lesbo who actually looked like a guy . I'm all about the lesbos.

Chad was very concerned that I felt extremely left out by the fact that he was so engrossed with his computer and kept coming over to assure me he loved me more then the computer. But it was ok as I was very prepared for him to be engrossed with the computer and was quite happy to have some bonding time with my new friend Mr. Flat Screen.

With this new computer and new TV I think we are set nicely on the path to becoming that couple that never sees each other and begins to have separate lives via their electronics. HA.

TV Times

2008-10-15T15:17:00.003-07:00

Our new bedroom TV and Chads new computer are ready today for pick up.

He just picked up the TV and messaged me.

I arrived at my desk to read this.

Chad: the tv is learning...
it's kind of scary
it's sitting there scanningand glowing dark and light...
I think this tv might be smarter than you

Unfortunetly he just left to pick up the computer so I can't get mad at him yet.

I can't believe he said the TV might be smarter then me.

Actually, hes probably right.

Turkey Turkey

2008-10-14T13:00:00.001-07:00

I must have the post turkey blues because its emo central over here. Its very random. That and my stomachs all in knots like I should be worrying about something but I don't know what I should be worried about, which is quite possibly making me worried.

I hope we get off a little early today to go vote. That way I won't be TOTALLY behind the 8 ball tonight. Chad will most likely be glued to the TV all night. I need to buy food for dinner.

So this weekend, what did we do? Well Friday was nothing as Fridays usually are. We went to Costco to get me a membership so that I don't have employees yelling at me when I try and use Chads. That adventure turned out to be interesting.

Saturday I cleaned and Chad installed the microwave shelf in the kitchen. Looks quite spiffy and was a little more difficult to install then he thought. Ended up going to the parentals in the aft. so Chad could wash his car and I went through the 3 large containers full of fabrics I've been hording for years. Donated everything except a couple pieces I thought I might be able to use. Also found some cool fabric for the bedroom pillows.

Saturday night I went over to my Zia Marias where we had a girls night and watched Dan in Read Life which was SUCH a good movie. We all munched on food and my mother and I sipped on wine because we are winos. I don't think that Chad and I have hung out at all on Saturday nights since we've been back from Mexico. Its been separate events every weekend. Odd.

Sunday we ran around and shopped and ran around some more. Chad is the most impossible person to buy shoes for EVER. We had Thanksgiving dinner at Chads sisters house. My parents came along for that as well, because you know we are one big family now. I never take pictures of events when I'm with Chads family. Maybe its because I don't want them to think I am crazy even though I think they already know I am crazy.

Monday was the most perfect rainy day off. I love waking up on Saturday mornings and its all dark and rainy so you put on your most comfy cosy sweats and your stick on a movie and lay on the couch organizing old magazines. There was a Seinfeld marathon on all day and we had it on the TV from 10am - 4pm. I cleaned up things here and there while Chad took apart my Zia Marias computer. Then I grab some photo albums and photos that have been sitting in a pile for a million months and finally put them all away. It felt so good to get that done.

We stopped by the parentals for a quick no Thanksgiving dinner and then scooted out quickly as they had places to be. Then I figured that since Chad still had more work to do on the computer I would finish up the laundry and watch the Sex in the City movie since I have yet to see it. I can't believe how much I actually enjoined it. I can not tell you how many times I cried. I was such a sap. Chad actually finished the computer early and watched the rest of the movie with me, though I'm not sure if he will openly admit that. He had to bite his tongue a couple of times do to the extreme ridiculousness of some parts.

Ok I am totally leaving at 4 today. Holla. Then I need to go buy a million things for dinner.

Girls Night at Zia Marias3

I want more blueberry crumble

2008-10-10T16:10:00.004-07:00

This morning I had a little bit of a late start because it was Friday and I was cozy and really didn't want to get up. So I left a few minutes late and made my way to work. That's when I get a call on my cell phone from my wonderful husband who can not find his keys. Oh and where do they end up being? In my purse of course. Because even though we drove my car last night he, for some reason, brought his keys and asked me to put them in my purse. So this morning, when I discovered this, I had to turn around, hussle back to the apartment, run up the stairs and drop off the keys. This in turn made me 20 minutes late to work, which completely threw me off schedule. *Shakes Fists*

Last night we tried to gather the troops to watch the first Canucks game of the season but that failed horribly. Only Steve came out so we just headed to the Firefighters club across the street. It was pretty big inside and it felt pretty empty even though there were quite a few people in there. Anyways, we proceeded to stuff our faces with pub food which then naturally made me want to puke by the end of it and made Chad terribly gassy. But it was quite nice to watch our boys beat Calgary 6 - 0.

Omg its a long friggin weekend. Hell YES! Am so going to be lazy at least one day this weekend. Apparently some dude is coming by in an hour to buy our microwave - random. I need to go clean the disaster that is said microwave before he does so because we all know that Chad wont.

My boss's daughter is lost and now we are all listening to her try to explain where to go on speaker phone. Its quite entertaining.

I look like a man today.

That is all.

PS. Alicia's epidermis is showing.

Opening Night

I hate confrontations.

2008-10-09T09:55:00.002-07:00

And there is one going on right now. *Shutter* Someone caught someone else talking about them behind there back and now they are locked away in an office hashing it out. It makes me tense and worrisome even though this has nothing to do with me. I just hate when people are upset and mad at each other. This office brings out the worst in people some times. Gawd I hope no one comes away crying. I just can't handle that today.

I walked into the office this morning with the temperature saying 16 degrees. Are you friggin kidding me. I absolutely loath the heating in this office as I'm sure you've heard me complain about it several several times. Its always too hot or too cold.

Now my email is not working and I can't receive external emails from people. It's a beautiful day in the neighbourhood.

...

Last night we bought a few things from Home Outfitters but nothing really exciting. It wasn't as fulfilling as I thought it would be. I guess the excitement will come when the shelf is done and the microwave can be put away leaving me with more counter space. What I am really looking forward to is finding a nice piece of art to hang over the bed and to get some of the wedding pictures printed to put in all the frames we got. I am going to do a family wall collage. That is my plan. We'll see if it works.

I am craving the warm comfy sheets of my bed right now.

BONED THAT ONE UP DIDN'T YOU!

2008-10-08T09:56:00.004-07:00

The sun is beaming in the window and is finally making the office warm. The only problem is, in about 3 hours the sun is going to be directly in my face and I am going to have to shut all the blinds so that I don't go blind.

I really don't have anything to blog about. Monday we had dinner at my Moms and Tuesday we had dinner at my Nonnas. That was a nice cooking break for me, but it feels like I haven't seen Chad in forever. Dinner for us is such a huge thing. Its where we tell stories from the day and have discussions and really bond. So when we have dinner with other people it always feels like that one on one connection is missing.

The one thing I find most difficult about cooking dinner every night is trying to figure out what to make. Chad always tells me that hes a simple man with simple tastes and I'm sure I could have a set dinner for every day of the week and just repeat it and he would be happy as a clam. But I am so concerned with variety and making sure I space things out so we don't get sick of them and such. I think I am putting way too much thought into all of this. I just gotta figure out how to work my steamer.

I'm hoping we can go to the Bay and Home Outfitters tonight for a mini shopping spree.

We are now obsessed with watching Craig Ferguson every night. We get some Detroit feed so we can watch him earlier in the evening. Hes so friggin funny. He is by far my favorite late night host. Maybe its because hes scotish. Its become our evening tradition.

Tomorrow night is the first Canucks game of the season and I get to eat Pub food. Yummm Pub Food. Thats all I can think about right now.

It's been a month

2008-10-06T15:57:00.004-07:00

I am too tired to blog the weekend. I mean maybe I can but I am warning you that I might fall asleep.

I did not get all the things done this weekend that I wanted to which totally frustrates me. I mean part of it is my fault because I decided to go visit my Aunt yesterday instead of cleaning but I haven't seen her in a while and it was nice. But still. I have so much to iron and fold and I never organized the bathroom or vacuumed the floor. Le sigh. I hate not getting my weekend jobs done on the weekend.

Saturday night Alicia, Marlee, Jessica, & I went to the Twigg & Hottie fashion show. That was fun but the weather was so horrible and stormy outside that all I wanted to do was stay home and hide under the blankets. It was very nice to get out with the girls for dinner and fashion however. We went to The Reef for dinner. It was super good. Definitely a place I will have to go back to visit!

Sunday we had the crew over for dinner. I decided to make meatballs and baked ziti. The only problem was that I got started on that way to late so we didn't eat until after 7. I mean that was fine for Chad and I but our guests had been hiking all day so I knew they were hungry. None the less the Ziti turned out SO good. Way better then the first time I made them. By the end of the night I was exhausted. After spending 3 hours in the kitchen and washing 4 loads of dishes, not to mention what was in the dishwasher I was dead. I hated that I couldn't socialize cause I was stuck cooking everything. I felt like the chef in a restaurant or something. I need to prep meals when I have parties. Sunday was just bad for timing tho.

Tonight will definitely be a early bed time for me. I needs me sleeps. Ha sleep. I need to finish frigging doing laundry. Ugh. Thank God Mamas makin din din tonight!

Twigg & Hottie Fashion Show
A Sunday Dinner

SamRo hearts Hohan

2008-10-03T16:30:00.001-07:00

I keep sneezing.

Yesterday it was due to all the cat fur on my sweater and today its because Alicia is beside me and I am allergic to her.

Ha.

This morning I woke up super tired which was weird because I went to bed at 1030 and basically had a good sleep. I did wake up this morning at 4 to rain pouring down like a mofo. Then I got out of bed to go to the bathroom and every bone in my lower body cracked 4 times. No lie. My hips are cracking machines. Its like I'm 80 years old.

Chad came home late from work yesterday so I had a chance to clean the bedroom and change all the towels in the bathroom. I'm excited to do laundry tomorrow morning and FINALLY clean out the bathroom. Its been a thorn in my side all week, but I've been too lazy to do anything about it in the evening. I am waiting for a Saturday morning clean fest.

We had Tacos last night. They were good. Especially all the sour cream I dumped on top. I love sour cream. Its just so damn good. I put it on everything.

During dinner we watched both debates but sided more with the American one. Chad couldn't handle the cattiness of the Canadian one. That and every time Dion opened his mouth I though Chad was going to throw something at him. This election is making me smart. The thing that come out of my mouth are genius.

Yesterday I decided to wear this plaid shirt I've had in my closet forever. I really like it but have never worn it. Then I realized why. It's because I look like a lezbo. Not that there is anything wrong with that. Its just that the shirt was really ill fitting. Then Alicia came in dressed in plaid and I knew it could only mean one thing. We were meant to be lesbian lovers, alla SamRo & HoHan.

I feel a theme coming on for Halloween...

Your heart is true your a pal and a confidant.

2008-10-01T14:16:00.003-07:00

I hung out with Matt last night.

Other then the wedding the last time I saw him was months ago. Its pretty sad. We have missed each other company.

Last night was like old times. Back in the summers where I was single and had nothing to do and we would get together and have a million random out door adventures. It was refreshing.

We had dinner at Menya. It was so good and so filling. They basically have 10 items on their menu and I didn't know what half of them were so I basically just ordered what Matt ordered. That ended up being a good decision.

Oh so good SOUP! I was heavy in love with the noodles and the soup was perfectly creamy. The portions are huge tho so we all know I didn't finish it. I will definitly be going back there.

Gyoza hell yes! Best I have ever had! Other then the ones Matts mom makes of course. They we so good that after we finished them Matt ordered another round.

After dinner we went down to Marios Gelati to get some ice cream. Matt was craving Tartufo and I got a waffle cone with After 8. The only crappy thing was the ice cream tasted more like sherbert then it did creamy ice cream. I was dissapointed.

We took our ice cream to the park benches at Science World. I refuse to call it 'The Telus World of Science' because that is just BS.

While sitting there we did was we typically do, make fun of people. There were all these scenesters on bikes, like a gang of them and Matt was totally hating on them. Then we got into this huge discussion about the difference between scenesters and hipsters. We figured out that Matt is a hipster.

A lot of people were going for runs. I don't understand running.

I took some fancy pictures with some setting on my camera. Turned out pretty good. I mean I'm no Patrick Zaph but I was happy with them.

Post Science World visit we were going to go to Stanley Park just for the sake of it but only ended up going as far as Coal Harbour. There we walked around pretending we were rich city folk who had apartments in the area.

We made a pit stop to Urban Fare which I had never been to. I almost died at the price of Pine Nuts. We bought some Italian drinks and a bag of chocolate covered cranberries and made our way down to the water.

Matt was quiet, which he usually is, so I went on and told him John McCains biography. I have no idea why but for some reason I have read so much of it that I've basically memorized his life. I am so insane.

It was getting damn cold out so we jetted at around 8:30.

I sang Matt the theme song to the Golden Girls. My all time favorite theme song. He looked at me like I was on crack. I just might have been.

View the whole set here.

Wedding Photos

2008-10-01T09:10:00.004-07:00

Just wanted to drop a quick note to everyone.

Our professional wedding photos are up.

If you would like to view them click here. Choose Danielle & Chad and then enter in the password.

The password to view them is daniellechad08.

There are 8 different categories to view. If you want to order any of the pictures professionally you can do so on the website, if not you can always get copies from me.

Also, you can view our wedding slide show which includes a few of the wedding photos here.

Enjoy!

Steve & Gloria

2008-09-30T09:09:00.002-07:00

The Internet broke yesterday. Well our server broke so we couldn't send emails or do anything. It basically made Claudia, Alicia, and I loose our minds. No Internet is like being cut off from the world. Its the saddest thing ever but we were seriously going mental.

Luckily at 3:30 it finally got fixed and we got our fix. You should have seen the excitement on our faces.

Aww...Love

This weekend we finally got all the boxes and piles off the floor. Oh the joy that that brought! We also did a bunch of errands returning things and buying things and changing my drivers license and setting things up. It was busy but good.

I can't remember what we did Saturday night. I don't think we ate dinner until 8:30 that night, we were so late with everything. Doing dishes at 10:30 is not fun. Chad ate so much food I thought he was going to explode. Then we finished off a bottle or wine. Just like in the old days.

Sunday morning we got up early and I made pancakes (best.wife.ever). After lunch we went and did more buying and returning. I got the new Sex in the City DVD even though I still haven't seen the movie yet, but I figured its something I, as a woman in fashion, should own.

We then purchased a new fancy TV for the bedroom. It's nicer then the one in the living room, but it was on sale (Thank you Bay Days!) We get to pick it up on the 15th. I AM SO EXCITED. I have always wanted a TV in my bedroom.

The majority of the stuff we had to return went to the Bay or Home Outfitters which as we all know is a part of the HBC group of companies. Meaning, that every time you bring stuff back you get your money back on an HBC gift card. After returning all that we did and combining the amount on that card with the other gift cards we got as wedding presents we had an unfathomable amount to spend. We bought the TV and a few other things and still have enough money to replace a few items in the kitchen and then some. Its exciting but ridiculous at the same time. I can't wait to spend it all.

We were finally able to figure out all the Denby and return the things we had extras of. I was so happy to finally put it all away and have the ability to stare at its beauty. I even served Sundays dinner on the plates just to prove to Chad that I am not scared to use them. I just can't get over their beauty. Having them sit in our fancy cabinet fulfills a life long dream. They make me happy.

The last thing that needs to be set up is the new microwave and microwave shelf. You see when I opened all the presents and put them all away I put the mixer out on the counter like most people do, but in order to do this I had to put away Chads 'beautiful' display of jars filled with pasta. This did NOT sit well with him so he wants to rearrainge the whole kitchen just to have his pasta jars go back where they belong. This means creating a shelf beside the stove to house the microwave, putting the mixer where the microwave was, and putting his pasta in its rightful spot.

At least this is motivating him to get on this little project of his. Thats what he spent all of yesterday and last night doing. He is insane.

Shhh it's almost October

2008-09-26T16:17:00.003-07:00

Ok so we didn't take as many pictures as I had hoped this afternoon. After being rather lazy this morning we ended up working our asses off in the warehouse. That and my camera died after three pictures. But what can you do.

I told Chad last night that after two years of being lazy I was putting my foot down and demanding that we do SOMETHING for Halloween. I'm not saying we have to go on a 12 hour pub crawl or anything big. I mean even a small house party or something. I just need to dress up as someone and I need to drink booze with friends while doing this.

The only problem...I have no idea what to wear. I have no idea who to be. I have zero inspiration. And considering that Chad will not participate what so ever I can't even do a couples theme. None the less I must go as something/someone. Maybe I will go as Alicia. I think I could pull it off.

I think Chad should go as a Hanging Chad. I mean, it makes sense. Anyways I NEED HALLOWEEN IDEAS. I am so lacking in the halloween inspiration this year. Your assistance would be greatly appreciated. Also, if anyone is planning a party or knows of a party, LET ME KNOW!

Thanks!

Booty Booty Booty Booty Rock'em Everywhere

2008-09-26T09:28:00.003-07:00

Alicia and I are the only ones here today. Thats a bad thing. A very bad thing. Why you ask? Because it means today (which is also a Friday) we will most likely goof off all day long! Sweet! I mean we will do SOME work, but with everyone abandoning us I think it is our right to have fun today.

I have a feeling there will be lots of pictures taken today and there will be more then one post about our antics today. It should be good times. Other then the fact that I kinda have an eye head ache right now. Does that make sense?

Anyways.

I bought theses boots a while ago (kinda) and have been saving them for fall to come so I can jump around in them. The second I saw them I fell in love and bought them. Might have something to do with the plaid. Not sure.

I showed Chad them when I got them but of course he doesn't remember. I put them on this morning for the first time and what does he say to me. "You look like Napoleon Dynamite". Umm excuse me. His boots were ugly, these are adorable. Then he told me we were having Bass for dinner. Smart ass.

So despite what Chad may think these boots are kick ass. For that matter, so is my outfit today. I heart it. But I need more new shoes. All my shoes are old. They need to be replace. I think this calls for a shoe shopping date! PRONTO!

And can someone say random good hair day! I didn't even do anything to it and it curled. Holla.

I am so hearting these boots today.

Someone needs to come with me on a date to buy chuck taylors. Thank you.

I <3 pretty homes

2008-09-25T11:36:00.003-07:00

Last night I got to spend the evening by myself cleaning and organizing and doin' my thing. It was actually quite nice. For some reason I can always clean and organize better when Chads out of the house, so I always take the opportunity when he leaves to go like mad.

Omg I can not tell you how good it felt to get boxes off the floor and things put away. I made a huge pile of clothes and things to give away because I figure that I don't have a lot of room and there is no point in keeping things that I really don't need because they will take up space for nothing. I've got all my clothes, shoes, and jewelry figured out with room to spare. That makes me beyond happy.

My Nonna gave us a huge tupperware tub to use as storage so I packed it full of wedding gifts that I don't have room for right now. Things like vases and candle stick holders and silver platters. Things I like and wish to keep, but right now I know they won't be used on a regular basis and I just have no room to store them. Once I clean out the basement at my parents house I will be able to store and easily access this tub so I can grab stuff I need in advance. It should work out nicely.

There is still a small pile of gifts that I need to put away. Our big corningware set which I think I've figures out a spot for them and our huge Kitchenaid mixer that I have no idea where to put. That will be Saturdays challenge. Along with figuring out how much Denby we got and what needs to be returned or exchanged. I think we ended up getting way more then we needed.

I love cleaning and organizing. It makes my brain feel clutter free and makes me breath easier when I don't see piles and piles of crap everywhere.

The only sad part of last night was that I basically watched the Woman's Network for 4 hours. I guess it makes sense because I am a women but I still have to laugh at myself. I love having the TV on while I clean. It makes me feel like I have company that won't get in the way.

Tonight is a trip to Costco and then I'm taking the night off because of all the work I did last night. I'll finish everything else up on Saturday. I am so looking forward to it. I am the lamest person ever! Ahh the life of a house wife.

We need to have a Cambie night soon. But by soon I mean anytime after two weeks. I'm still on my hibernation from society phase but I can feel the itch to go out and party slowly coming on. Plus PatZ never really had an 'official' welcom back party.

Freedom makes me want to Party.

No ticket. No taco.

2008-09-24T10:07:00.002-07:00

I arrived at work on Monday morning to 2 unread emails, a sheet of paper on my desk and no idea what there was to do. Taking this opportunity to re-name pictures on Flickr instead of finding out what was left to do for Fall 08, I blissfully spent the majority of the day catching up on all my internet news and gossip.

This however got very boring very quickly and I itched for some small task to work on. It was at about that exact point when I was told there would be little to no work for me over the next month. Great. Some might exclaim joy to news like this but I could only come to one conclusion. I am going to be bored out of my mind.

An odd series of events has put us way ahead of the game in finishing up Fall 08 and starting Spring 09. Our designer is going to Chile for a month so we really need to get things moving and have everything ready before she leaves. The only problem with this is that in the flow chart of fashion I am at the tail end of it all. I do a few things in the middle but most of the work I am involved in is at the end of the process. So while everyone who is involved with the start and beginning of the process is running around like mad, I get to sit here for the next month trying to find things to keep me busy.

While I enojy the fact that I wont be stressed out and will be able to catch up on a few things I am left with an overall feeling of frustration. There are so many things I could work on at home. Setting the apartment up, putting away & returning gifts, and cleaning the whole thing. I think about all these things I could be doing to get a head all the while sitting here at work with nothing to do. It drives me crazy.

I enjoy working. I enjoy getting tasks done. I hate sitting idol for days upon end. It feels like such a waste. Time goes by slower. There is no one here to chat with. I don't want things to become stressful and rushed, I just want a little bit of work to come my way.

I'm going to see what I can fine today. I am finally feeling motivated enough. I think I will finally finish counting those zippers I've been putting off and dreading. I've got no other choice.

Carmens Playa

2008-09-23T09:22:00.005-07:00

It's Tuesday.

We got home on Saturday. Night that is.

We left the sun and humidity and arrived to cold rain.

I honestly don't know which I like better. Maybe a combination.

The warm sun with a cooling breeze? Perfection.

It was absolutely wonderful to get away and basically do nothing for a week. I mean we did stuff but we were on our own time line. It was so relaxing. I actually read a book. An entire book. And I don't read books. It was monumental.

We oddly enough spent a lot of time watching CNN and got into big discussions about the US presidential election and the fall of the economy. Just Chad and I. So random but so obsessed with CNN now. I think its all thanks to Anderson Cooper reporting from Texas during the hurricane wearing a skin tight black t-shirt with his hair all tussled. It was a very nice image.

The weather was sunny and humid but there were threats of Thunder showers every day. And they came. Every day. But in small spurts. Early in the morning, or late in the evening. But they came. It was a nice cool down. Thunder in Mexico sounds different then Thunder in Vancouver. Its weird.

The food was good. I ate reasonably but Chad stuffed himself on more then one occasion. Our drink of choice was the Mango Tango. I don't know what was in it but it was good and cold and girly.

There were a lot of people from Texas at our resort. As well as Mexicans. On vacation. It was weird.

We wore matching shirts the first day which garnered a lot of attention. People actually pointed and stared at us. A little odd. They were probably trying to pronounce our disaster of a last name. I say disaster because only Italians can pronounce it right. Everyone else butchers it.

Our one excursion was to Tulum and Xel-ha. That was a fun, long, tiring day that was actually filled with cloud and rain and Thunder.

I got a tan, but only mildly, and on our last day there.

We love 5th ave. Especially at night. In the rain.

Cozumel was fun too. Deathly hot, but very pretty.

We spent a night at Senor Frogs and their $15 drinks. I represented Canada in a game. I tied for 1st because Chad wouldn't give me his pants. I did win him a beer however. I'm a good wife.

The beaches will always be our favorite. I think someone peed in the Gulf of Mexico.

But maybe the pools were more our favorite. But only because of the swim up bar.

So now we are home. Back in Vancouver. Back to the grind. But I'm ok with it. I can only be away from civilization for so long before I go stir crazy. I had to check facebook 4 days into the trip just to make sure the world was still ok.

Sometimes getting back to reality is nice. But maybe thats only true when your reality is pretty damn sweet.

To view the million pictures from our Honeymoon click - Here.

Park the Car

2008-09-12T12:24:00.002-07:00

Tonight I have to say Good Bye to them.

Amanda leaves tomorrow.

Alicia and her Dad leave next week.

It will be 4 of 5 years in a row I've seen the Aussies.

I love and miss them so much.

Alicia really truely is my other half on the other side of the world.

All the pictures are here.

Including a video of Dario singing the Spice Girls.

Tonight is the finale.

But you wont get to see those pictures until we get back from Mexico.

Mrs. Ciavarro. No not Chad Mom.

2008-09-10T13:45:00.001-07:00

My first blog post as a Mrs.

There are pictures all over facebook so add me as a friend if you want to see them and haven't already. I'm waiting for everyone to make me CDs of the pictures before I post any, as well, I am waiting for the professional ones which will take a while to arrive.

Everything about the wedding went smoothly. The day before we decorated part of the hall in preparation for the actual decorator to come in. Then the bridesmaids and myself had dinner and settled in for a night of manicures and pedicures and 'Father of the Bride'.

I ended up getting a terrible migraine and went to bed at 10 where I fell asleep instantly and slept the whole night through.

I woke up on Saturday not really knowing what to do with myself. As I told many people that day you think about and plan your wedding day for soooo long that when it finally comes you just can't believe it. It doesn't feel real.

We got up and had breakfast. We got our hair done and our make up done. We got all dressed and then rushed out the door thinking we were late but instead arrived 20 minutes early.

I wasn't nervous until we sat in the parking lot waiting. But once I was out of the car and about to walk down the isle I was calm and cool. It was shocking really, considering Chad was about to faint.

The ceremony was short and sweet. It was actually really nice. We were unable to have a full Mass because Chad isn't Catholic but I think it worked in our favour. I liked how simple it was. The organist from the church played for us and it was beautiful.

After the ceremony we somehow got stuck doing a receiving line even though we were doing one at the reception. That put us a little bit behind schedule, but after a few pictures we were quickly whisked off to the liquor store and then down town for some professional pics.

Walking around Gas Town caused the bottom of my dress to go black but in the end it was worth it for the shots we got. I am truly excited to see them. We found some really cool locations.

After hanging around Gas Town we went to the Fairmount Hotel where we took some pictures inside and felt more then classy. It was so beautiful in there.

Post pictures we headed to the reception where Nonna tacked up my dress so it wouldn't drag and we stood in line for 45 minutes greeting all the guests.

The food was so good but I could barely eat I was so nervous for all the speeched, I just could not relax. Somehow every speech expect for the Best Man's speech was about me. It was a little weird having that much love and praise shown my way. Chads speech was so sweet that every time I read it I cry. Hes posted it on his blog.

Once they were all done it was time for dancing and both Chad and I finally began to relax. Our first dance was to Johnny Cash's - Rose of My Heart. Another song that makes me cry. Chad sung it to me. It was beautiful.

We then cut the cake and the dance floor was opened. It was packed 98% of the time and it was so nice to see everyone enjoying themselves.

Chad and I made the rounds and visited with friends. It was a fabulous evening. Exhausting but amazing. All the stress of the morning and the nervousness and all that just goes away once the dancing starts and you see everyone having so much fun.

We danced our last dance at around 12 and then jumped in the limo to the Sutton Place Hotel. Another amazing spot. Our room was gorgeous. My camera was dead so I couldn't take any pictures. The view was amazing, the bathroom was huge and everything made us feel like millionaires.

Sunday we went to Church at the Cathedral. That was beautiful but I had a terrible stomach ache from breakfast. My stomach had been wonky for 2 weeks due to all the wedding stress. I actually ended up loosing 10 lbs which cause my dress to slip down the whole time. Its taken quite a few post wedding days to get it back to normal.

After that we headed home where we got changed and made our way out to my uncles house for some gift opening. We were so tired but it was nice to see everyone again in a more relaxed state. There were about 40 people there.

This week has been another stressful one, but not as bad. We leave on Saturday and the Aussies are here for another week. Every night is booked and so much of our lives is packed up in boxes that are hard to get to. I just wish I had a full day free to organize everything before the trip. Its stressing me out a little. But not to worry, in 3 days I will be far far away from here, relaxed and tanned.

There won't be much posting this week, or next, or this month for that matter. Once things are organized blogging will go back to normal. Plus I am planning a total revamp.

I hear Mexico calling my name.

Always too busy

2008-09-04T09:11:00.002-07:00

Tonight is the rehearsal. Thinking about it just makes me more anxious. I don't know how I am going to make it through the next 3 days. I'm so excited to get married but I'm so nervous about people looking at me. I'm so weird.

I went to my local spa last night - Eccotique Spa in Metrotown. I have the most wonderful Esthetician who waxes so fast that you are in and out in 10 minutes. She is a dream. I basically got every piece of fuzz on my entire body ripped off last night. Slightly painful but I am so use to it that it doesn't phase me anymore.

After doing all that I was on a shopping high so I decided to harness it and buy some stuff. Its weird because I can go to the mall with a list of things I need to get but if I'm not in the mood I won't find anything I like. The there are those times where I just get this sensation and I find all these deals and everything I see I like and its amazing.

I decided that after years and years of holding out I would finally get a pair of Lululemon pants. I figured I needed them for the plane ride to Mexico. Yes that's right. I spent 100 bucks on stretch crop pants to wear on a plane. I am turning in to such a snob, but its fun!

I then found these checkered Van boots that I had been eyeing for a long time. They finally went on sale for 40 bucks but they didn't have my size. I figured it wasn't meant to be. I did however, find some super nice boots that I plan on grabbing when I get back later this month.

I also found some paper to wrap a few thank you gifts in but I did not find a little white purse or white flip flops to wear so I guess I will just forget about that.

Now I sit here in the office all alone focusing too much on the events occurring over the next few days and getting more and more nervous as the time goes on. I'm hoping to get out of hear early today. I really shouldn't even be here. Oh well.

2 more days.

I ate a beagle

2008-09-03T10:55:00.004-07:00

I tired blogging about the emotional disaster that was this weekend 5 times yesterday and everytime I started a post I just didn't feel it. I've told the story too many times so now I just don't want to tell it again.

Heres the really really short version.

Friday night was the reunion of PatZ to civilization.

Saturday Chad got really sick puked everywhere and I got really stressed out and cried everywhere. It was a mess. Basically the worst day ever. I wont get into detail.

My cousins from Austalia were suppose to arrive that night but their flight got all screwed up so Chad and I end up spending the night watching Pleasantville which ended up being nice and relaxing. Exactly what we needed by the end of the day.

Sunday Chad slept in and we went to the airport to pick up the visitors. After dropping them off at my uncles house I went home and started packing up my closet. I got halfway through and ran out of boxes. So Chad came to pick up me and my mess and we transported all my boxes over to the apartment. I unpacked about half of them before we had to leave again for dinner.

I brought over some artisan bread and went to warm it in the toaster oven and burnt the hell out of the top of it. Woops. My domestic skills did not shine there.

So we had dinner and then headed over to my uncles house where he was having a party for the Aussies and some friends. I didn't take any photos :(. We were all outside and it was freakin freezing. He has a out door heater like they do at restaurants but all the older folks were monopolizing that.

Monday morning I had a few things to do before heading over to the PNE with Alicia and Amanda. That was until we got a phone call from my uncle telling us that just after we left Alicia tripped and hurt her ankle so they were taking her to the hospital. She ended up spraining her ankle so the PNE was out of the question. We ended up just hanging out at home and then had dinner. It was a little bit of a bummer.

Yesterday we finished up the last of the seating plan and then I moved over the rest of my closet. It took me an hour to fold all my t-shirts but they all fit in one drawer so that made me happy. I think I will end up having more room then originally thought. People will be impressed with my organization.

Now I am obsessed with looking at the Coach website trying to figure out what purse I am going to buy in Duty Free when we go to Mexico.

3 more days people.

Damn you bunwich.

2008-08-29T13:02:00.002-07:00

I'm falling asleep here. You are going to have to bare with me.

I forgot to bring the cable with me to work so I can't upload any of the pictures from Beck last night and there is really no point to writing about beck if I have no pictures. I have screwed myself over because I can guarantee you that I will have no time to blog about it this weekend. And then what? It will all be too late. Le sigh.

This morning I woke up and thought it was Saturday. That's the first time that's ever happened to me. I was very tired and still not feeling right and would much like to still be in bed right now.

I had this really long involved dream about going to some concert with my friends from high school and some chick kept stealing our seats and then I kept trying to convince everyone that all the guys in the band were gay and I kept yelling, 'THEY ARE FLAMING', referring to them being gay. Weird. Then some bitch stole my pea coat and I was frantic and looking everywhere and ripping peoples heads off and then I realized some guy who was playing Santa stole it? Weird. Then Chads friends came out of no where and were hammered and Chad was trying to convince one of their wives that his friend wasn't drunk and on and on. And then the next day I told someone the story from the night before and I had to relive it again. Does that make sense? Anyways it was odd. Friggin Santa stealing my Pea Coat. That really pissed me off.

Anyways, I'm on crack.

I just finished this bunwich from Uprising Breads and I'm SO FULL. I want to hurrl. But its ok. Now I'm chewing gum balls.

CRAZY I TELL YOU!

We are hanging out with the Jew tonight. It's been like what? 6 months. HOW DARE YOU LEAVE US FOR THAT LONG!

I apologize for the lack of pictures on my blog. Well, pictures of thing/people other then Chad. But you all know my situation. I ain't got no time!

I have to count zippers this afternoon and I am really trying to post pone that. Pone pone.

I think I need to leave you now before you think I've totally lost my mind.

Hey hey hey.

Shuttle Cock

2008-08-28T09:24:00.001-07:00

9:18 AM

Chad: aflac
me: hi
Chad: hi
me: hi
Chad: hi
me: hi
Chad: hi
me: hi
Chad: hi
me: hi
Chad: hi
me: poop
Chad: plop
me: blugh
Chad: blorg
me: hi
Chad: hi
me: what are you doing?
Chad: that was funny. you should blog it
me: hahah

I Love Him.

My middle name is Rose

2008-08-27T10:26:00.004-07:00

I feel like crap. This scares me because I can not be sick for next week. I've decided to take all necessary precautions and I'm jetting home at lunch to snuggle on the couch and nap and hopefully get over whatever this weirdness in my body is.

The only problem is for some unknown reason I always feel guilty when I take a sick day or have to leave early because I'm not feeling well. Maybe its years of my mother training me to be a good worker and work through my sickness. As nice as my mother can be she has no sympathy for people who are sick and can't work. Shes all about the work. So its either that or I'm just paranoid because back in December where I was super sick for two weeks I got into trouble with work because I didn't have sick days back then and I apparently didn't make up the time that I was sick and so they had to adjust my paycheck which they were all annoyed about it and it was a huge disaster. It was so friggin annoying and made me very bitter. This time, thankfully, I have sick days and over time stacked up in my favour.

I hate these bullshit games I have to play. Constantly protecting my ass so I don't get screwed over.

The only justice in all of this is that the boss has been super sweet to me lately. When I first announced my engagement she was on all edge about it thinking that my mind would be so preoccupied with wedding stuff that I wouldn't get any work done. We even had a meeting about it. And as much as I reassured her that that wouldn't happen I don't think she believed me. That is until now. She is so blown away by the fact that I never took a day off to do wedding stuff and that I came to work every day so calm and not stressed out that she tells me so every day. I definitely scored some points there.

Although there are still people in this office who for whatever reason feel the need to give me attitude about not doing one stupid thing while I'm swamped and in the middle of a huge project. I am a bit bitter can you tell?

I don't know people are setting me off today. Not feeling well = no patience.

Another thing I would like to point out. I love how you have discussions with people and you plan an event that they all know about and then a few days before it happens everyone cancels. Umm seriously. You couldn't have told me this PRIOR to organizing this event.

It's just a bad mood Wednesday.

But for a positive spin, Chad and I FINALLY picked our First Dance song last night. Its so sweet it makes me want to cry. Awww. <3

Thats all for now.

The Chocolate Body Paint WAS in French.

2008-08-25T13:43:00.004-07:00

I am alive. Getting sick apparently but somewhat alive.

While Chad was gone on his weekend stag adventure the girls threw me mine on Saturday night. All went well until someone decided to feed me Jager and Tequila right when I went to open prezzies. It was all down hill from there. I might have passed out in the bathroom. I might have been a huge mess. I've got no pictures because clearly I was in no shape to take any and so far only Alicia has some up so that is your only source of seeing me look retarded. She tells the story of the night quite well. We really weren't as crazy as you might expect.

The best part tho, was waking up the next morning in our brand new custom bed. Omg it is so comfortable I just didn't want to move at all. It is the most amazing bed in the world.

Anyways, because my stomach is one sensative mofo I was useless all of Sunday because it hurt so much from all the booze and puking and overall grossness. It was a bad scene. Its the worst feeling in the world and I loath it. I hate getting to the point. Ugh I hate booze right now.

Thankfully Chad came home in better shape then I did. After spending the majority of the day at the apartment, then going home to drop stuff off and nap, I went back to the apartment after dinner to see Mr. Ciavarro. He greated me at the door in his Pjs and very scruffy beard smelling like garlic sausage (after eating half the leftovers from the night before). We sat in bed and ate hummus and crackers while reviewing the weekend events. I figured I would just add to his already garlicy stench with the hummus.

Now we are left with the last of the big events leading up the the big day behind us. Next Saturday my cousins from Australia arrive and then its just party time! With a mere 12 days to go I am getting pretty excited about it all. Maybe this weekend I might actually get some time to relax too! That would be very nice before the big day. Anyways, don't worry, at some point all this wedding talk will stop and I might actually have some interesting posts up my sleeve.

On another note, I have now done something to my throat and its so sore I have not been able to swollow all day. So much so that I am STARVING from the lack of food I have been able to eat. I am seriously a disaster right now...

I think I ate too much sushi

2008-08-22T14:00:00.001-07:00

Chad left this morning for his Stag weekend. I don't know whos more nervous about it, him or me. I'm most paranoid about someone shaving off an eyebrow, I don't know why.

With him gone and Alicia and Claudia out at a photo shoot I feel all poopie and lonely here. I need someone to chit chat with.

I think I will go and buy myself some boots tonight before I start cleaning the apartment. I minorly avoided a dish disaster last night. I think the only thing left to organize is the few things that are currently in, what will be my closet. Hopefully I can move some more stuff over next week once I fix it tonight. I'm trying to get everything clean and organized for tomorrow night when the girls come over for my Stagette. I am very anxious about it, I don't know what to expect. Plus I need an outfit.

I made a list of a million things to do tomorrow. I hope I accomplish them all. I'm actually excited about doing them so then I can try and relax for the next two weeks. I really will be happy when this is all over. I just can't think about it right now. I'm not anxious about getting married, I'm anxious about everyone looking at me all day long. I hate being the centre of attention. It is this that plagues me.

I've been in contact with my florist the past few days finalizing everything. I am so excited about the flowers! They are going to be so beautiful I just can't wait to see them. Same with the decorations I ordered, its going to be amazing. The only thing that is slightly disapointing is the state of the hall. They were suppose to renovate it but it never got done this summer. I mean its not horrible but it definitly needs some updating. In the end it was the only option we had, unless we wanted to wait until next year to get married.

I think I ate too much sushi. It's factory time. I'll say Hi to the Asians for you.

You're not funny. You just don't get out much.

2008-08-21T13:20:00.012-07:00

The sun has come out finally, after all the storms and rain and November weather. However, it only makes me bitter for it not having come out two days earlier. We were forced to watch Radiohead outdoors in the pouring rain. A small price to pay to see one of the greatest bands ever live but once the concert was over it was miserable.

We made a last minute decision to drive down there instead of taking the bus because after traveling many times to UBC's Thunderbird Stadium via the Bus to see concerts I understand how it all goes down. Long line ups standing out in the open. This would all have been fine if the weather was decent but in knowing about the impending rain I thought it would be a smarter choice to drive. This was smart, until we hit major traffic jams and stupid people not knowing how to turn into a parkade which almost made us late.

Thankfully tho, we found a spot and hussled our asses to the stadium to arrive just as Radiohead was getting on stage. Perfect timing! This was also at the point where it decided to start raining. I was the only one out of the four of us wearing a waterprouf jacket.

Chad found a home under this umbrella. Poor Breyers girl stood out there with only a T-shirt on for hours in the pooring rain. Only 6 people bought ice creams.

The light show and video screens were amazing!

The show was so awesome and really, of all the people to see in the pouring rain, Radiohead fits quite nicely with that. I was super excited when they closed the show with my two favorite songs, 2+2=5 and Paranoid Android.

The pouring pouring rain.

Wet Rats!

The one thing Chad kept saying all night was 'I'm too old for this'. Aww poor old Chad! Dispite the miserable rain, he did have a good time. It was nice having him accompany me to a concert.

We didn't realize how many people were actually at the concert until we went to leave and there were crowds and crowds of people everywhere, it was insane.

We found the parkade pretty easily once we left the site but it was so rainy and windy and cold that we all walked with our heads down not talking. I think we were all so wet and cold and exhusted. Once we got to the car we tore off our wet jeckets and settled in for the ride home. Unfortunetly we had to sit in the parkade for 45 minutes while everyone else on the four floors below us exited first. However, it was well worth it as my brother took the bus home and was a million times more wet then us and arrived an hour later then us. Driving turned out to be a very good choice.

A big THANK YOU goes to Adam and Alicia for getting us these tickets. It will truly be a night we never forget! I heart Radiohead.

Unlinked photos by Alicia.
Radiohead photos here.

Is it raining or are their tears on my face?

2008-08-19T17:03:00.003-07:00

I think my brain is so exhusted these days that trying to blog just doesn't work. I haven't been super busy at work so I have the time to blog but my mind just doesn't function when it comes to doing it. That and I doubt you want to hear me talk about how stressed I am every day. Exactly.

This past weekend I had both my Rossi Bridal Shower and the Rossi Family Picnic. I got so many gifts I don't even know what to do with. I find it weird when people buy me things because I am so specific in what I like and even though I put things on my gift registry I change my mind about everything. I think I am just over thinking everything. I am having a slight stress attack about the over all look of our apartment. I think there is too much navy. I dunno. I just don't know. I need to re think my design ideas about the apartment. I need to integrate some lighter colours. Sorry Chad.

Anyways. I am crazy.

Radiohead is tonight. They are the last band on my MUST SEE BEFORE I DIE list. I will had to add more bands to it once I've completed it. I am excited to go I just physically cant express it right now because I am lazy. It's an out door concert but its been raining the past few days and I'm sure the field will be damn muddy and I'm sure we will get rained on tonight. Holla.

I am tempted to by a poncho for tonight. I don't know why. I think just to say I wore a poncho to Radiohead. Alicia says that if it rains it will be good because that way it will mix with our tears. Black tears of despair. Oh so emo.

I think I am most excited because this is the first concert I will be going to with Chad. We love music and have never been to a concert together. Unless you count the first time we met at the Matt Good Concert. Anyways, Chad can't justify paying concert ticket prices so the only way he will go is if someone else buys them. Thankfully Alicia and Adam got us these tickets as our 'Wedding Shower' gift. Very thoughtful of them!

Ok so we are off to go get our dinner (Greek Food Take Out - Our Favorite) and then off to meet the boys!

Pictures of the Bridal Shower.
Pictures of the Family Picnic.

Always at the last minute.

2008-08-18T16:32:00.002-07:00

I've got nothing today.

Flick Her

2008-08-13T16:22:00.002-07:00

I wrote this whole other post this morning but then I thought it was silly and didn't really have any direction so I saved it and gave up on it.

I've been stressing out lately, but not because there are a millions things I need to do, but rather because instead of focusing on the day ahead I think about the 20 days ahead and all the places I need to go and the people I need to visit and I begin to realize that in the next 24 days I will have very little time to myself and it stresses me out. This has put me in a very pissy mood. You may have noticed this if we have hung out in the past few weeks.

I just can't relax and its eating away at me. Thankfully this Friday night Chad and I are going on a date, maybe I calm down a little with that. He's going to come pick me up from work and we are going to walk up to Commercial Drive which is loaded with good eats. I am very much looking forward to it. Then we are heading down to Gas Town to scout out some locations for our wedding pictures and then maybe drinks at Chill Winston? Hell Yes! I miss dates.

This past weekend my God Sister Sabrina (Darios oldest sister) got married. My mom has the pictures on her camera and has yet to upload them. Read Marlee's post to see some tho. Sabrina lives in Italy, as that is where her Fiance is from. Aside from having seen her this past November when she came to visit I hadn't seen her for 3 years. As kids we were best friends and did as much as we could together. As we grew up tho, we grew apart and our friendship somewhat ended. It's kind of been awkward since then, but maybe that's just me.

Anyways, since Sabrina and her fiance Mirko live in Italy I never had the chance to hang out with them or see them other then a few times at a dinner table, and its hard to kind of get a sense of people and how they feel about each other at a dinner table. I obviously knew they loved each other and what not but I never really got to see them interact like you would with a bunch of your friends. It was absolutely amazing at the wedding to see them interact. They were so genuinely happy that it made me smile. Even though we may not talk often and we aren't the best of friends anymore I still care about her and it made me feel good to know that she was so happy.

Speaking of weddings we officially booked our honeymoon today! We went all out and it cost us a little more then we wanted to spend but I know it will all be worth it. I can't wait. The hotel is beautiful and I am going to be in Classy Heaven! God I love classy things and pretending I am a Rich Bitch. Hahaha.

3 days until the Rossi Bridal Shower!

10 days until my Stagette!

17 days until the Australians get here!

24 days until the Wedding!

31 days until the Honeymoon!

5 Saturdays in a row jam packed with events! Will I survive them all?

God only knows.

P.S. remember when I mentioned that the Chicken Snack Wrap at Mc. D's was not good. Well that's a lie. I just figured out the perfect combo - Crispy chicken with Ranch dressing. HEAVEN. I don't know why it took me so long to figure out. Anyways, it's my new favorite thing.

Manning Park Photo Essay

2008-08-11T16:00:00.001-07:00

I got up at 6:00am on Monday so that I could have a shower, finish packing, head over to the apartment, help Chad finish packing, and then hit th road by 7:30 so we could be in Hope by 9. Thanks to Chad crazy neighbour (the one who 'God Bless'es you in the elevator) we were half an hour late because he had to talk to Chad about apartment prices and all this bullshit that really didn't matter. I was ready to clobber him.

Leaving the apartment on our way to catch the HWY.

Chad driving my car. I trust him more.

I love driving through Chilliwack. I love all the farms.

We thought we were going to arrive at our breakfast destinantion early so we made a pit stop in Chilliwack for some water and milk. Turned out this pitt stop made us late.

The resurtant we stop at every year in Hope. The foods not very good but its tradition! A bunch of us met there at 9:30am for breakfast.

I had a chedder cheese omelet and potatoe pancakes. Most greasy fattening thing ever but so good! Chad had the 'light' breakfast.

We then wandered around Hope looking for a liqour store. I totally had a city girl moment and got creeped out when I went into the gas station to pay for gas and I saw how gross it was.

Chad bought this for his beer. He had been looking for weeks for a beer foamy but none of the stores in the city had them. Luckly, Hope did.

We arrived at Lightning Lake at 12 and sat around and had lunch. Other family members met us there since the cabin wasn't available until 3.

Chicks hanging out.

Ryan breaking my chair.

Elise and Francesca teaching Massey to swim.

Me attempting to hide from the sun.

Dinner time - Day one. Lasagna and Salad. Yum yum yum!

Zio Bernard vs. Laura

I think you know who won.

Fuzzy Bathroom Me in the middle of the night.

Nothing like waking up to a mouse in the house. I can't help it. They are so cute.

My beautiful burn from the lake. It was so painful I couldn't sleep with any sheets even though it was so cold at night. Really really not smart.

We spent the whole day in the front yard following the shade.

Zia Maria stealing Cristinas alcoholic beverage.

Chad reading a book. Notice Raymi's business card is his bookmark!

Me and my favorites make the Italian flag!

Under the shade of an evergreen.

A very lazy and relaxing day.

The cabin from the front. Yes it holds 50 people.

Us.

The beached whale decided to take a nap after his very strenuous day.

The men starting the BBQ.

A red shirt to match a red face. It was Chicken night.

The 'kids' were suppose to do the dishes. Ryan was the only boy I caught in the kitchen.

The Rossi's build a fire.

Bambi! I wanted to catch it so I could have some venison. I know. I'm bad.

Marshmallows.

The last ones out by the fire. We look like we've been lost in the woods for days.

HAHAHAHAHAHAH awwwww. Morning Chad!

The cabin from the back.

Thats right, the cabin that we rent is called the Last Resort!

A walk around Lightning Lake. Chad had a cane becuase of his hurt foot. Aww poo boo boos :(

So pretty.

Papa Rossi & Mr. Ciavarro

Rainbow Bridge. I jumped off this many years ago.

Mama Rossi.

There are like 12 different looks going on in this picture.

Chad was a little exhusted and a little in pain at this point.

Nappy time back at the cabin with Flat Eric.

The Scotch Drinkers.

The water fight that involved my dad dumping a hugh pot of water on Uncle Jim, then loosing his footing causing him to tumble down the hill. All the adults were scared that his stitches were going to burst. All the kids were histerical. If only I had caputured the moment.

Do they look related?

Sausage & leftover Chicken night.

Chad icing his foot. Worked like a charm.

Packing up the car after dinner. Some people left Wednesday night. The rest left Thursday morning.

Dancing or something.

Bi bi Manning Park. See you next year!

Hope Slide. My Favorite.

Sunset in the 'wack.

It was a most relaxing weekend and I was so happy to actually be able to sit and do basically nothing the whole time. It was so cute the group of us that just sat around in a circle the whole time chatting and reading and knitting. It was wonderful.

The only downside to Manning are the inevitable post Manning blues that happen every year the day after everyone gets home. Its such a great bonding time that everyone looks forward to that we all hate having to go home.

Thankfully I have 400 pictures to look at to remind me of it all. Excessive yes, but well worth it.

To see all 371 photos of Manning click Here.

30 Days Left...

2008-08-07T11:30:00.001-07:00

So I am back from a rather busy yet relaxing weekend.

Saturday was filled with running around and busyness. We had originally planned to get a bunch of stuff done and then have a relaxing evening at home, but that got changed when we got invited to a dinner for the Italian choir so we had to spend the day rushing to get everything done before being able to go to this dinner. It was very close to being a disaster. Thankfully though, we picked up our new mattress which is *heaven*. The only downside was that Chad and I had to carry it up 3 flights of stairs and I almost died. The bedroom is slowly coming together nicely!

Sunday was also spent running around. I had to go to the mall in the morning to get some new bathing suits for Manning but the mall didn't open until 11 and that totally threw my schedule off. I will spare you the details of it all but again it turned into a day is madness. That seems to be the trend these days. I have the day planned out, I know exactly what needs to be done and then somehow it all goes to shit and I end up running around like a mad man. I'm so sick of it.

Sunday was also the day of the Italian Picnic our organization puts on every year. I arrived late because of all the crap I had to do, but Chad had been there since 9am setting everything up and cooking sausages. He was covered in pig fat and was so greasy but he was happy as could be. By the time I got there I was so out of it for some reason, I was just not happy. Plus certain people were being huge ass hats and it just pissed me off. I was just not feeling it that day.

After all of that I came home, packed for Manning and went to bed. I will save all the details of Manning when I upload the 300 pictures tonight. The only thing I will mention is that I burnt myself to a crisp on the first day and because of the 6 hours of cooking sausages on Sunday Chad wrecked his foot from all the standing and was an invalid.

I came into work this morning after a few days off and everything was all over the place. Thats the one thing I hate about going away, coming back to a disaster. My computer screen kicked the bucket so now I am using a ghetto 15" screen until my new fancy wide/flat screen comes in. Its taking me a while to get into the pace of things and I only missed two friggin days!

But anyways...

The Italian Weekend pictures are Here.

Don't make me give you another yellow card!

2008-07-31T16:30:00.003-07:00

Should I go for four days in a row? Sure why not.

I got a new mouse at work today and I am obsessed with clicking things because it actually works and I'm really giddy about it.

One more day until my holidays!!! SO EXCITED.

Sooooo, today. Some how the day went by fast which is good. Its really gross outside and feels like fall. It makes me all confused. I want to go home and put on my sweats and cuddle on the couch by myself while Chads is at the gym. But no don't worry there is too much to clean. My Zia from Italy is coming to see the place on Sunday and there is much updating to do with all of our gifts so far. Its going to take me a while tonight.

I am excited for dinner tonight. I don't know what we are having but I hope its good. I want food. I am also excited to go home and have a warm shower and then put on comfy clothes AND THEN spend time organizing stuff. I love to organize.

Speaking of tonight lets talk about last night. There was some Italian Centre employee who was in his 20s that kept hitting on my mom all night long, and then when I went there to sit with her at the end of it all he started hitting on me. It was a little ridiculous. And it didn't help that both our significant others were MIA. As for the choir they were amazing and I bought both their Cds. One of the young Italian men inquired about me to my mother because apparently they have become fast friends. Unfortunately I had a headache so I left early, I will however be seeing them all again this weekend. It should be interesting. And I'm not going to lie. He is good looking. Hahah not that that means anything. Don't worry. Chad's safe. As long as he stops making fun of me.

My Dad had his gallbladder removed on Tuesday (thats why he couldn't come last night) so hes been laying around all week long. Hes doing good tho and a bit in pain because of the healing and all. Hes been having a lot of stomach problems and they finally figured out that it was because his gallbladder wasn't working anymore and basically dead and it was causing him pain. Hopefully with it removed he will feel a lot better.

This week has been really weird. We all wore grey today which is even weirder. The whole office is creeped out by this news story. We can't stop talking about how gross it is. Such a horrible event.

Ok I think its time to head home and start the second part of this bizarre day.

Hello Jerk Face...

2008-07-30T16:35:00.002-07:00

The cabinet is up and it looks good. There is still so much to clean and organize. That is getting postponed until tomorrow. Tonight I go to see my Cousin from Italy and his Men's Choir sing at the Italian Centre. My Mom warned me that some of the guys are in there 30s and looking for wives. Chad is busy and can't come. We'll see what happens...

I wonder what I should wear?

Frustration on the rise

2008-07-29T11:00:00.000-07:00

Last night. The night where plans don't work out like you want them to. The night where you would like to hit people over the head with metal objects. Oh what a night.

So as I mentioned yesterday we were planning to go to Ikea to get a display cabinet for all the goodies we have been receiving as wedding presents. I found the exact one I wanted with glass doors and all and it was for a reasonable price. I was excited about this.

I phoned my mom and ask her if we can borrow the truck to go get this cabinet. She tells me that no one is using the truck so it should be fine. Perfect! My plan is set in motion.

Chad was home all day but had a million things on his plate so we planned to meet after dinner for a quick trip to Ikea to pick up the cabinet so he could also run the last bit of his errands after that.

I then get a phone call from my mom saying that my brother just got home from school and said he needed the truck for something to do with school and he just found out that he needed it. On top of that we couldn't take my moms jeep because she was going out and doesn't know how to drive a standard so we couldn't switch cars. Fack. I was really really looking forward to going to Ikea.

So I tell this to Chad but he says not to worry because we were able to bring home the Ikea book cases in his car and this cabinet shouldn't be as long as the book cases so it will work. Thank God. So off we go with our list of things to buy and do.

We get to Ikea, find what we need, load it up on the buggie thing and go to pay. In my head I calculated that everything would come to around $400 so when the total came to $330 I just figured that one of the items wasn't as pricey and I had originally thought.

We go to load everything into Chads car when he realizes the the spot to slide the packages through it narrower then the package itself. In most cars the two back seats flip down and you have that whole space to slip stuff through, but in Chads car there is a small cut out in which to slip stuff through instead of having the width of both seats. This, we did not originally realize, would be a problem. So the boxes are half hanging out the back and I go to find some twine to tie everything down but I can't find the box the dispenses it so I am running around everywhere. I finally find some and run back to the car only to notice a box three feet from where Chad was standing. Ugh.

Now that the boxes are half sticking out of the car our plans to pick up some stuff at the liquor store and deli changed. Chad didn't feel comfortable driving around down with all this stuff hanging out so we made a b-line home.

Meanwhile I was looking at the bill trying to figure out why it cost us less then it should have and I realized she did not charge us for the glass doors that went with the cabinet. See you could buy the cabinet buy itself or with the doors for an extra $120. Somehow our cashier didn't scan the box so we got it for free. A little bizarre since that box was on top of everything and should have been the first thing she scanned. Oh well.

We got home and Chad grabbed the dolly, loaded everything up, and brought it upstairs. I rushed the IGA to get Chad some stuff for lunch before it closed while Chad unpacked everything.

I get back and hes standing in the middle of the room, pieces everywhere, staring at the ground. He couldn't find any of the hardware to put the cabinet together and was very confused. I suggested checking the boxes with the glass doors in them because I heard stuff moving in there. This would have been an option but the two pieces were to be bought separately so why would the pieces for the cabinet be in the box with the doors?

It was all very confusing and frustrating.

Chad checked the Ikea website and it stated that the cabinet came in two boxes. One with the main piece and a smaller one with the feet and hardware. Ohhhhhh. This is probably why she didn't scan the other box because she thought it was the box with the feet and the hardware in it.

Now we were stuck. Pieces were everywhere and there was nothing we could use to put them together. Great. I attempted to clean everything up and remove everything from the existing liquor cabinet to make room but some movie was on that Chad really wanted to watch and so I couldn't do much with out his help. So so so frustrating.

In the end I just had to leave everything in a complete disaster. Chad is going to go to Ikea today to try and get the missing box and then hopefully put it all together tonight. Then maybe we can organize a few things.

But the fun doesn't stop there.

Chad has this new obsession with not answering his home phone. He does this because people only call to give you bad news. Srsly. So whenever I call him I have to phone his cell because he will see that it is me and answer it.

While we were in Ikea he gave me his cell to put in my purse. I carried it around and then in the disaster of things that night I totally forgot to take it out of my purse, so I went home with it. Just before I went to be I realized I still had it so I called to tell him where it was. Of course he didn't answer the phone, so I left a message. Meanwhile I was raging inside with this not answering the phone business.

This morning at 7 his phone starts ringing on Max volume. At first I didn't recognize the number but then realized he was calling his phone to try and find it. I go to answer it but its too late. So I call him back. Do you think he answers? NO. FACK. Again I leave a message. I HAVE YOUR CELL PHONE ANSWER YOUR DAMN HOUSE PHONE. I was not in a good mood. He still didn't answer his home phone.

So today I have to deal with work calling him 100 times on his phone which I am not about to answer, so they leave messages and I get to hear it beep all day. Yay!

I just pray to God he gets the last box from Ikea so we can finish this mess. And maybe we can get some call display so he can see when I am calling his house and actually answer the phone.

Roman Cavalry choirs are singing

2008-07-28T14:00:00.002-07:00

Another weekend of none stop gatherings has come and gone. These weekends leave me feeling a million years old with how tired I am at the end of it all. As much as I love all this visiting and excitement its wears me down and makes me cranky. I lack stamina and my body physically can not handle it.

Maybe I am just overly moody this weekend.

I have this overwhelming amount of negativity towards work for some reason. We've finally slowed down giving me a little bit more flexibility in my day to day routine but I just feel so un inspired and motivated. I don't know what it is. The only thing I can sum it up to is that I actually haven't had a vacation in over a year other then stat holidays, and with all the stress that just past I am itching to get the hell out of here. Thankfully I have three days off next week when we go up to Manning Park but I am REALLY looking forward to taking off for a week and relaxing in Mexico. I think I am going stir crazy in here.

Aside from visiting and such, this weekend was productive. I had the girls come over and we got a bunch of stuff done for the wedding and then Chad and I went to the bank to figure out our accounts and such. I now have access to Chads millions. Yea right.

Quick Wedding To-Do Summary

Wedding Dress - Done!
Shawl or Jacket - Not started.
Veil - Half way done.
Bridesmaids Dresses - Done!
Bridesmaids Wraps - Done!
Bridesmaids Jewelry - Done!
Bridesmaids Hair Accessories - Just need to find something for my MOH.
Ceremony Programs - Done!
Reception Programs - Not started.
Wine Labels - Not started.
Wedding Favours - Done!
Table Cloths - Fabric bought, need to sew.
Photo for Sign In Table - Need to be printed and purchase frame.
Seating Plan - Just needs to be confirmed closer to the day.

Hopefully tonight we can go to Ikea and find a simple Display Cabinet that I can stick a lot of the new dishes and stuff in. Then we can get rid of Chads 70s liquor cabinet and actually use the space. I will, however, miss the tackiness that is that cabinet.

I just won a bet with Chad over the name of this post. Burn.

Visit to Mission

Cleanliness is next to Godliness

2008-07-25T08:20:00.003-07:00

I beat everyone to work today. That makes me special. We all came in early to start on Inventory but now I've been assigned to other work so I get to sit here and work instead of running around in the warehouse. That makes me happy.

I just noticed that I have a hickey on my neck. I mean I had an accident with the vacuum cleaner.

If Chad and I don't see each other for a few days for whatever reason, when we finally do come together its not a party of joy or of 'Oh I missed you so much'. It's a party of anger. Every time. It's the strangest thing. Its like we secretly resent each other for being busy and not seeing each other so we blow up and get angry at everything for the first hour. Well, I do anyways. This was the case on Wednesday night. I think I might have explained this before.

One thing that drives me INSANE is when I don't see Chad for a couple of days and then I come over to the apartment and it is a complete disaster. I get so frustrated because then instead of spending time with him I have to spend the first few hours cleaning everything. Chad tries to tell me that everything is clean, its just Chad clean and not Rossi clean. There is a big difference between Chad clean and Rossi clean. My only solace is that when we are married I will clearly be around more and I can hopefully maintain some level of cleanliness instead of these periodic massive cleaning parties of one.

This time I decided to blow up over the fact that he only washed 2 out of the 4 towels in the bathroom even though I've told him a million times that if he is going to wash the towels he needs to wash them all. And yes yes I should be thankful that he actually does the laundry and all that but 1) I don't live there so hes not washing my stuff and 2) how hard is it to dump stuff in a machine, set it and walk away, then leave the pile of clean close on the floor for days until someone else (ME) comes to fold and put them all away. Exactly.

But this is fine. In a month I will take over all the responsibilities he does half fast and I will do them the 'right way'. I come from a long line of females who think that the right way and the only way of doing things are their way. This is why I will not do the laundry at home or cook anything in my mothers kitchen because no matter how I do it or how I clean up it will never be done the way she wants it. I don't do it her way or the 'right way' so I would rather not do it at all. I am however, now beginning to understand my mothers obsession with having things done the right way.

We've already had many discussion about roles in the family. Chad is lucky I am an Italian woman and I was brought up in a certain way that just so happens to match his ideals. Being a traditional Italian woman is like stepping back 100 years. Its not about sharing responsibilities its about dividing them. Ask my mother or my nonna what there opinions are about men who attempt to iron their own clothes or who come to work with a can of soup for lunch. They will tell you that its the wife's responsibility to prepare good meals for their husbands and to provide clean pressed clothes for their family. The men will cut the lawn and fix the cars but it is the women who will make the beds and care for the children. They aren't saying that husbands shouldn't help their wifes if the situation calls for it, but there is still a division of roles.

Therefor Chad will man the BBQ and take out the trash and I will clean the house and do all the laundry, and we won't fight over whos turn it is to wash the dishes because we will already know who is responsible for what. And this will make me happy. I like taking care of my husband and my home. It gives me a sense of pride to take care of my family as it gives Chad a sense of pride to go to work every day and provide for his family. We may be living in the 50s but it works for us.

Now if I could only get him to wash all four of the towels.

Baby got back

2008-07-23T13:56:00.005-07:00

Alicia and I got take out from the Greek restaurant down the street. This is the second time we've done this and its so smart. The food is so good and even though we order from the dinner menu they always give it to us for cheap. It's become my new favorite thing to do.

Yesterday I had to drop some stuff off at the apartment before heading over to Metro town to do some shopping and while I was running from the front door to the car I could feel my ass jiggle, but more then usual. I think it's growing. I think its taking my thighs with it. I know Chad always says hes marrying me for my 'Baby Making Hips' as in I look like I have have and hold a baby quite nicely in my hip region (I guess that's something guys look for) but I don't know at what point that gets a little out of control.

I have this issue with not being able to fit in pants because my mind plays tricks on me and makes me think I always need a size bigger then I really do which leaves me with a baggy crotch, a waist that doesn't fit and an overall bad look. That and sometimes people make pants with zippers that are too small and the opening isn't big enough for me to get the pants over my ass. It's annoying but something I really shouldn't complain about.

I tried to make my wedding dress a little bootylicious and at first it worked out but it didn't really end up that way, which is fine with me because I prob. shouldn't be whorey in a Church and in front of old Italian people.

I wonder what it would look like if my ass and my thighs became like one big unit and you couldn't tell them apart? That would be weird. Its bad enough that I already have a second ass. That is what I call the small bump of fat I have between my butt and my thighs.

And I know I am skinny and all and it looks like you can break me in half but even skinny people have a place on there body where bits of fat compile together. Mine just happens to be my butt. I love food and I can't help myself and I am going to have a huge ass because of it. Thank God Chad likes big butts and he can not lie.

Ummmm food.

I think I am going to go eat my Greek leftovers.

Your boyfriend called to hear your voice

2008-07-21T10:44:00.002-07:00

Welcome to Monday morning.

I have given up on caring at this exact moment. Work wise that is. I am just too exhausted and lazy and tired of telling everyone I am exhausted. I need a vac cay and even though it is two weeks away that is just not quick enough for me. I still plan on doing the things I need to do everyday but I will no longer hustle my ass. I will be a moderate employee this week.

I had my first bridal shower yesterday but my mom has the pictures for that and hasn't given them to me yet so I won't blog about it.

Saturday I finished my dress. Yes that is right it is alll done! Aside from some things I *might* change if there is time near the end (because I am picky). It was quite the experience in making this dress, especially because I haven't really made anything to this caliber before, aside from my grad dress. The lace was the tricky part because its see through and there are difference ways in which you can sew the seams and I really didn't know what I was doing so, yea. I don't know what to think about that yet. But I do love it and it did turn out the way I wanted so I am pretty pleased. I am also thankful I don't have to look at it again until the wedding. It was getting very frustrating.

As you can see we got our engagement photos back. I am more then happy with them! I love them! I am so glad that we chose to spend a little bit more money then anticipated on our photographer. I think for us that was one of the most important things. We wanted someone who's photos stood out. Yes the poses aren't 100% natural but they are beautiful. I love the colours and the settings. If you will remember it was a very stressful thing trying to find the right photographer but I am more then thrilled with who we chose.

Scott was great to work with and I can't say enough good things about his pictures. I am super excited for the wedding now and all the pictures that will come from it. We are bloggers, we are narcissists, so it only figures that we would choose someone who fits our style.

Less then 50 days bitches!

Scotts website - Here.
All our engagement photos - Here.
Our slide show - Here.

Chad need to find black squishy pads

2008-07-18T15:24:00.003-07:00

The office is getting silent as everyone leaves for the weekend. Phones keep ringing and there is no one here to answer them. After a stress filled week I can't wait to get out of here. Its my Dads birthday today and we are having Fish n' Chips for dinner. They aren't may favorite but hopefully these ones are good.

This weekend I've got my first bridal shower. Chads aunt is throwing it for me. I'm excited to get presents but I dread having to open them in front of everyone as they watch me. I really am not a fan of opening gifts in front of people. I hate all the staring.

I am actually looking forward to tomorrow and all the wedding stuff that I am going to do because it won't be 8 hours straight of dress sewing. It will be little projects that hopefully wont take as long. I've even been working overtime once a week to save up the hours so I can take some time off aside from all my holidays. Chad and I have design some pretty wicked wine labels. Lets just hope I can execute them properly.

I am tired and totally out of it and doing everything in my power to make the time go buy quicker while ignoring work. So far so good but I am warring thin. Facebook is only so interesting.

I've got bloggers block and I don't know what to write about. My mind is mush.

Crap I just kinked my neck and now I'm in pain.

This is what you call a pointless post.

Last weeks Firday Lunch Date.

Can I steal you for a minute?

2008-07-16T15:26:00.004-07:00

Alright all my impatient readers. Finally a post. I know its all over due but we are approaching the season of stress, both a work and in life and so the last thing I have time to do is blog. But none the less here is a post.

Saturday was another day of dress drama but in the afternoon I took a break and joined the crew at Confederation Park for some BBQ'ing and Bocce of course because we are Italians and must integrate Bocce into every event.

The only problem was that the boys planned this event and told us girls at the last minute not giving us enough time to properly plan for it. There for it was a bit of a mad rush at the end.

Someone needs to get this man some sleeves. I much preferr t-shirts or wife beaters but these in between shirts...um no. But again thats just my personal fashion opinion.

I thought Dario was going to bring a little camping BBQ but really I should have stopped and thought 'this is Dario we are talking about' hence the full fledged BBQ he strapped to the back of his truck.

I bought this hat from work a million years ago and I've been saving it to wear to Mexico but I thought I would bust it out to give it a test run. I heart it greatly even though Chad says its too manly for me.

Marlee, Krystal, & Dario chatting away before dinner.

We then decided to throw the football around. I was too paranoid of it hitting my ring or my glasses so whenever it came at me I would kick it down or use my legs to block it. It was funny. At least I thought it was.

I was really in love with my outfit. I put it together in a matter of 5 minutes. Those are always the best outfits.

I love men. I love BBQ's. I love men BBQ'ing.

When we got to the park I realized I had forgotten my camera and I felt like a part of me was missing so Chad drove me back home to get it. Thankfully I literally live 5 minutes away.

We were all snacking before dinner. We are obsessed with food but I think that goes without saying.

Marlee made a pasta salad. Unfortunetly both Chad & Dario belong to the 'We don't eat cold pasta' club. It's wide spread amoung Italian men. I just dont understand it. Its pasta for the love of God!

Showing off his BBQ skills & his arms. He is multi talented.

Fetching of the food.

Have I ever told you home much I love Hot Dogs? Sweet Jesus that are my favorite. Chad even went out and bought me my favorite buns. Score!

Ahh. Heres a story. So Dario bought these hot dogs with Cheese & Onion inside of them. Once they were cooked Marlee goes to take a bite of it. All of a sudden I've got burning cheese on my hands and my lap and Marlee is freaking out. Turns out the cheese on the inside was ready to burst so when Marlee bit into it, it exploded everywhere burning both her and I. Somehow Dario worked his way around having his hot dog explode but it was pretty funny when Marlee did it. Minus the grease burns.

We were all done but Chad was still cooking up his Heart Attack burger.

Bacon Double Cheese Burger anyone? Apparently his excuse is that he bought the wrong patties from Costco and these ones are too thin meaning he gets to eat two in one burger. So gross.

After being stuck on the bridge for half an hour due to an accident Steve finally joined us for din din.

The start of the Bocce match. Girls vs. Boys agian. We played on retarded ground which affected us greatly. Chad was loving it tho. Some how he always wins on the shitty ground and I always win on the good ground.

Classic.

We then took a break after the boys beat us 11 - 0. Yea it was pathetic. Dario ended up going through Marlees purse and found some bubbles. That entertained him for a while.

Who looks hotter in the hat?

We ended the night with bocce by moonlight on the good grass which means we won because I rule on this grass. EVERYTIME. But then at the end there was a measurement discrepancy and we were tied but Marlee thought Dario was measuring wrong and then it was 'Dario vs. Marlee in Who Can Measure Better?' Its so funny when they get into there little squabbles of who is better at measuring.

After everyone left we (Chad, Steve & I) sat in the park in the dark and chatted about Steve & Ashleigh's trip to Vegas. It was a good night.

Sunday we were busy running around and then headed out to White Rock for some Birthdays where I somehow got 6 bug bites on my legs and am still suffering from then now.

Monday was dinner on the beach with the girls from work. Tuesday was anxiety attack over the dress and all the needs to be done, which then carried over into this morning but thankfully is now gone. Tonight we are doing a handful of things around the house and then taking the night off from the gym to relax for 5 minutes. I'm looking forward to that.

Tomorrow we are going to pick out our new mattress! GUESS WHO'S EXCITED!?

The Night the Measurements Took Over...

Soups & Salads

2008-07-11T12:15:00.002-07:00

He is coming to take me out for lunch since he is at home today and I am alone at work today. I am so excited!

Then tonight he is going to express his love by giving me one of his very coveted Keg Steaks that Ryan got for him. Apparently he only shares steaks with those he truly loves. Score!

After dinner we are going to go see Wall-E because it relates to our relationship. Chad is a love starved trash compacting robot and I am the emotionless plant finding robot who he falls in love with. I don't think there has ever been another couple in all of the movies that describes us this well.

My only hesitation to seeing this movie is that I am going to become to emotionally involved in it and will most likely cry my eyes out because of how bad I will feel for Wall-E who has fallen in love with someone who can't love him back. I have this thing with intimate objects that have feelings. Remember this guy. Exactly.

Ok its time to finish up before Chad gets here!

Wednesday morning. Le sigh.

2008-07-09T08:58:00.003-07:00

I was ten minutes late this morning because I wasn't feeling good and it took me forever to get my lunch together because I couldn't think of what I wanted to eat because all I wanted to do was puke. I'm crampy which makes me crabby.

I then forgot that I needed to get gas just as I passed the gas station I was going to fill up at. Then my gas light went on and I started to panic because the next gas station en route is by work and I have a history of running out of gas before getting to a gas station. This made me quite anxious. I made it though and tried to ignore the construction men filling up their trucks and creepily staring at me. I was not in the mood.

And so I am here now and the bright hot sun that was out this morning has now turned into dark grey clouds clearly signaling to me that I wore the wrong outfit today. Just not a good morning.

The only positive note was that I had a very nice and unexpected email from a blogger that made my day.

Last night I cut out some lace trim for my dress but then got distracted by this idea I had for the church programs for the wedding and I was going crazy trying to figure out the layout and everything exactly the way I wanted it. I was also trying to look for some ornate curly scroll clip art pictures to use and it feared next to impossible. I finally found some on this website that supplies clip art for websites and you can sign up and buy the actual things you want which I seriously considered. Remember I am a freak for details. Anyways, I was actually able to copy and paste some of them that didn't have a water mark on them. My only fear was that because it wasn't the original file if I tried to re size the art it would become all pixelated. So I kept everything the same size and laid them out like I wanted (they make everything looks quite gaudy but I still like it) did a test print and they were friggin pixelated. Bastards. It doesn't look HORRIBLE but it doesn't meet my standards. I'm not sure what to do about it, but after spending 4 hours working on it I've gave up for right now.

Also last night I decided to do a little somin-somin for my feets. I read this article the other day that if your feet are dry and you need a quick fix you smother them in lotion, wrap them in cling wrap, put some socks on and let your feet be for the rest of the night. So since I was staying home to obsess over curly scrolls I thought it would be the perfect opportunity to do this. Other then waking up at 3 because I can't stand wearing socks to bed it was a very nice experience and my feet feel amazing today. This is definitely something I will be doing more often!

So now that I've gotten all that off my chest here is the real post I was going to do...

Monday night we headed out to Confederation park for some bocce playing. Somehow the boys beat the girls even though Chad usually sucks at bocce most days, he some how pulled out all the stops this time. Here are some pictures and a little bit of their story.

You gotta love Italians. Why buy a hat when a paper bag will do?

Chad and I were post showers that why our hair isn't done and Chad is scruffy and my face is naked.

I love Confederation park for the simple fact that every night you will find loads of old Italians down there playing bocce, playing cards, hanging out, chatting and crowd watching. I've already told Chad that when we are old and retired that is exactly what we are doing every night.

Bocce Bocce Bocce