Absolutely Unacceptable

For now

2010-05-11T06:43:00.001-07:00

I will likely only be blogging on http://www.andresenbaby.blogspot.com/
for the next five months unless we do something none related to the baby... ha, like that is going to happen, right?

Snow snow and more snow

2010-02-08T15:08:00.001-08:00

Let me know when to send her goggles

2010-01-12T06:21:00.000-08:00

Christmas Time

2010-01-09T16:54:00.000-08:00

Chris and I had an amazing Christmas morning at the Andresen's! Chris made eggs benedict in the morning and we had a turdukin for dinner that night. We watched The Hangover with Kate and Alli and had some great laughs. It was my first Christmas away from my family, but I enjoyed every minute of it. We got up at 3 am the next morning and left the house at 345am for the trip to Indiana. Getting up wasn't easy, but was well worth it. 15 miles out from my house it started snowing hard. We got up Sunday morning as if it were Christmas day and we had a blast watching Emily open her gifts...aka, trying to eat the paper. We stayed in Lafayette for a week and spent New Years with my parents and Pam and Dale. Chris also got to meet the friends I used to hang out with from high school. It was really great catching up with all of them and introducing everyone to Chris. We headed back on Saturday the 2nd, and I got sick again...thanks Pam! :) We both returned to work on the 4th and I have been working through the weekend for another swim meet. I am looking forward to seeing Jenny in a couple weeks and meeting her newest addition Cooper! Enjoy the pictures!

Me, Troy, Kelly, Greg and Mandy Reunion

Mandy, me and Kelly visit for the first time in over 4 years

EMILY!!!

GO Colts!

Emily's new sippy cup from us!

Thinking about crawling

Christmas Morning at the Andresen's

My new Desperate Housewives gloves.

Thanksgiving 09

2009-12-02T07:08:00.000-08:00

We spent Thanksgiving at Chris' great aunt and uncles home near Kings Dominion. We had a day full of shooting, rocket launching, food and family.

If you look closely you can see the ejected shell at around 1:00 above my head! Great Shots!
We then headed down to Corolla in the Outer Banks for a post Thanksgiving vacation with the Andresen's. We went to a great little aquarium, ate LOTS of amazing food, and did some great shopping.. Coach outlet???? I was able to pick out my Christmas present from Chris!

Tomorrow kicks off the 2 swim meets that are 4 days each. December 14 will be a day to look forward to. We will be here for Christmas Day and then we head to Indiana to spend time with my family and celebrate New Years.... look out 2010!

More pics from Tgiving (October)

2009-11-21T10:59:00.001-08:00

Family Reunion

2009-10-19T09:07:00.000-07:00

Chris and I just got back from our trip to Indiana. I went to Lafayette on Wednesday and Chris joined me in New Castle on Friday. We ate a lot, visited with a lot of family and tried to stay warm. Here are a few of my favorite pictures from the weekend.

Uncle Chris and Emily

Uncle Dan and Emily

Uncle Chris and Emily

Falkor and Emily (look close - Emily has her arm on Falkor.. too cute)

Holding Falkor's paw

October already?

2009-10-02T10:49:00.000-07:00

Where did time go?

Things have finally gotten back to normal after our quick trip to Indiana. Grandpa's service was beautiful and over 300 people came to the visitation. It was so nice to meet some of his friends that knew exactly who we were, but we weren't sure who they were. :) They would come over and introduce themselves and tell us how much Grandpa would brag about us.... especially Emily (of course). I can not brag enough about him! Grandpa was a Shriner and used to transport burn children to hospitals in Ohio and Kentucky. He was a FreeMason, and he served in World War II. He did so much in his 87 years, and I am so proud to call him my grandpa. He will be sooo missed.

Chris and I have been extremely busy. He is in school two nights a week, I am teaching for GMU twice a week plus my regular 40 hour job, and teaching swim lessons one day a week. He just started football again and with group projects we are lucky to see each other on the weekends. This is actually my last free weekend, next weekend starts the meet season. We will be participating in the Human Society walk in DC next Saturday, and then I leave Wednesday the 14th to go to Indiana and Chris joins me on the 16th. The following weekend (10/25) is our ANNIVERSARY... wow, 1 year! November is a busy month too... a wedding and Thanksgiving!

Our sweet sweet neighbor Kim is moving to Virginia Beach, so we are desperately looking a dog sitter that loves Chase as much as she did. One of my lifeguards is going to be watching her for the second time when we leave in October, but we have 2 more trips in November that are stressing us out a little bit. I am an anti-boarding person because of a dog that I used to have came back from being boarded and was never the same. Chase is almost 7, and has never been boarded, so I don't want to try that out! I am currently looking at some "open" kennels in which all the dogs play in a large area all day and then sleep in rooms together at night. However, I am afraid that she might not pass the "personality test" because of her traumatic experience (she got attacked by two larger dogs and was bitten) and since then she is fearful of larger dogs. We will have to try it out and see if she passes.

Till next time!

Grandpa is with his love

2009-09-10T16:03:00.000-07:00

Grandpa Barber passed away early this morning, most likely in his sleep. My phone rang around 158am, and I looked at the caller id and braced myself as I said hello. It was my parents, and I knew what was coming. I wasn't prepared, I knew it could happen, but I didn't think this soon. Chris and I just purchased our tickets to Indiana for an October trip, and I kept telling Grandpa that I would see him soon, but I never wished it was this soon.

I laid awake until 5am and then decided to just get up and go to work. I showered, and then laid down again. I finally fell asleep, but the whole time I dreamt about what was going on.

Grandpa LOVED his granddaughters. He finally got three boys officially last month, and a cherry on the top was the birth of baby Emily in May, making him a Great Grandpa. He was onry, fiesty, stubborn, whitty, smart, and mostly SOOO full of love. Losing someone so close and so important in my life is not easy and I am definitely having a hard time dealing with it. Chris and I are leaving in the morning, and I am bracing myself for what lays ahead for all of us. I am so happy that he can finally be with his one true love, and they can be together again, hopefully keeping a good eye on all of us.

If you read this, I just ask that you keep us in your thoughts and pray that we find peace in all of this.

Grandpa

2009-08-24T13:18:00.000-07:00

Grandpa had his first round of chemo last Thursday and so far so good. They don't think he was able to battle the congestive heart failure/double pneumonia without the chemo. In other words, they thought the cancer wasn't letting his other areas heal, so they gave him the chemo. He is still eating, but very little, on oxygen 100% of the time, and still is doing breathing treatments. We don't see an end to the hospital stay at the moment, but he was able to enjoy visitors including little Emily.

and because I can't resist her sweet lil face... more pictures of Emily at Amandan's Wedding Reception

Vegas Baby and Grandpa Update

2009-08-13T16:01:00.000-07:00

@ the Bellagio

Lucky Larry's Lobster Mania

M & M world... good thing dad was there to help!

The Girls

The Boys

@ our $3.95 breakfast... it was good!

New York, New York

We are back from Vegas, but not back with extra money. After losing a little we decided it wasn't THAT much fun to lose money and stopped after two days of trying.

We arrived on Tuesday morning and hung out at the pool and lazy river. We had dinner at Fiamma Trattoria with everyone there for the wedding. I think there were over 20 people. On Wednesday we traveled to The Little White Chapel where we met Elvis and Amanda and Dan got hitched. Elvis liked dad a lot and as you can see by the pictures, dad enjoyed him as well.
Thursday we toured multiple hotels, saw a show at the MGM called Crazy Horse, and it was horrible.... so bad that Amanda and Dan walked out! We all left on Friday and headed home. (more pictures to come...the computer was slow)

There are a lot of great pictures on Facebook too...especially from the professional photographer.

Grandpa Barber
His cancer is back.... unfortunately that means that he will have to start chemo. He had a port implanted Thursday (to receive the chemo), has his pacemaker checked on on Monday, and starts his first round of Chemo next Thursday. For those that read this, keep him in your prayers. I have never known him without hair, so that alone is too hard to take. We hope the chemo works or at least helps him feel better. He is only 5'2 and 126 pounds at the moment, and shrinking daily because the smell of food makes him sick. The dr's have given him a pill to help with the smell of the food and has allowed him to eat more than before.
This morning he was rushed to the hospital because he couldn't breathe... I am so thankful that Amanda and Mom are with him!

Bobby McKey's night out

2009-08-01T10:57:00.001-07:00

Last night we had an amazing night out at Bobby McKey's dueling piano bar... Jim and Brittanie were in town from Texas...we miss them sooo much!! oh, and yes, I cut all my hair off!!

Brittanie took this picture... Captain Morgan, although he is drinking Bud Light!

Jim and Brittanie

Nate and Chris

Pictures....

2009-07-27T08:23:00.000-07:00

Here is a link to pictures of the National Aquarium in Baltimore and of the National Cathedral in Washington DC.
http://share.shutterfly.com/share/received/welcome.sfly?fid=ee435b83bd32d0bf&sid=8BaM27Ju3bN gi

I hope that works.

Weekend projects:

We FINALLY removed the stump... no wonder they want to charge you an arm and a leg to remove them... it is hard work. We were able to chase 90% of the roots too and take it all to the dump on Saturday. (560 lbs worth of it) We also took the last of the white rocks, and old toilet and some random things in the back yard. The transformation is amazing. This coming weekend is dedicated to getting it back to normal... to much dirt/mud for Chase to bring in.

Working hard to cut it free!

Finally... it came out!!

The STUMP
The Hole

I found this rug at LLBean... how cute is that??? It fits perfectly on the landing going down to the basement.... and looks very very similar to Chase-r!

We also had the privilege to dog sit for Sara and Ben. Rocky is a border collie/basset hound mix that is about to turn one year old. Chase and Rocky had a great time and Chase shared her bed with him. We all had a fun time.

One one more week of work till Vegas BABY!!! We are definitely getting super excited for the wedding and can't wait to see all of our family!!

Congratulations Chris!

2009-07-23T13:58:00.001-07:00

On TOP of the World!!

Nominated, interviewed and now selected as a Byrce Harlow Fellow for the 09-10 academic year!!!

**Your professional, academic, and leadership achievements, combined with your strong interest in a career in advocacy are extremely impressive. Being awarded the Bryce Harlow Fellowship truly demonstrates your achievements as well as your commitment to integrity in professional advocacy. It is a pleasure to be able to assist you in pursuing you graduate degree with this award**

From Mom and Dad Barber-
"We all recognize your efforts in completing your degree work for your Masters Program and we are all especially pleased that others (Bryce Harlow Fellowship) have also recognized your education, avocation, and continued efforts to improve yourself. Not only are we excited and pleased we now have new information to spread to our friends as we 'gush' about our family and loved ones endeavors."

Chase's boo boo and house updates!

2009-07-19T16:23:00.001-07:00

Mom, Dad and Grandma have been here since last Saturday, and no, I didn't make them work the whole week. We actually treated them to the Baltimore Aquarium on Monday for all their hard work. We visited the American History Museum and the National Cathedral.
As for updates:
-new toilet upstairs (the upstairs toilet replaced the basement toilet)
-removal of the holly bush stumps
-removal of Cherry Blossom roots... Chris even used a mattock to bust up the stump and roots.
and most important:
-NEW floors and baseboard in the living room

As for Chase's boo boo... she snagged her dew claw on some of the roots we removed. She ran inside for a treat and blood was dripping everywhere. When we inspected it closely, we realized that she had split her nail up/down. I guess she didn't realize that we had already spent enough money at Lowe's this week and for the new floor, so we had to take her to the vet for a 45 minute "surgery". She has a bandage for 3-5 days to cover the partial removal of her claw and 3 weeks of antibiotics.

I will post more pictures of our trips soon!

2009-06-25T17:26:00.001-07:00

Emily

2009-06-24T14:28:00.000-07:00

I have returned home and am back to work after being in Chicago for four days. Emily is sooo cute and even more beautiful in person. Mom, Dad, Amanda and Dan all came up to see me...I am sure it was Emily, but they told me it was to see me too. We had a great time, Jessica and Eric received a Wii for their birthdays, so we played it and made fun of each other. We enjoyed Flat Top Grille and Giordano's Pizza, very yummy! We went down to Navy Pier, but Emily didn't think that was a good idea, so after walking around, we left. More pictures of that to come.

Camel no more

2009-06-17T10:55:00.000-07:00

My friends in high school used to call me a camel when we would eat out together. I drank sooo much water.. all the time. (Camels drink large amounts of water - up to 20 gallons at a time.) I gave up soda when I was 16, never drank coffee, so it came down to water and milk.

Well, things have changed. I "forget" to drink throughout the day and it has finally caught up to me in the form of kidney stones. Two weeks ago I had the pleasure of passing a kidney stone. Let's just say, the nurse said many women would rather give birth again than to pass a kidney stone. The emergency room was a nice place to spend a Friday night, but not fun. After following up with an Urologist, I found out that I had a least six more stones forming in my kidneys. Yesterday I had lithotripsy done on my left side, and a followup appointment will determine if I had to have it done on my right side. At this exact moment I have downed 24 ounces of water, which is about 20 ounces more than I am acustomed to.

The lithotripsy procedure feels like someone has kicked you in the back with a steel toe boot on. I am bruised, sore, tired, and am praying that this is the last time I have to deal with something like this. Moral to the story... drink water, lots of it!

A lot to report

2009-06-08T12:30:00.001-07:00

Becca was here visiting two weekends ago. We had a short, but nice time to catch up and hang out.

I made a cake for her homecoming and Brittanie and Jim's farewell for our cook out. I thought I would use decorating icing to write Welcome Home Becca, Farewell Brittanie and Jim, but 30 minutes prior to everyone arriving, Chris and I realized that the icing tube needed a tip (we didn't read the directions on the back) So, I improvised and it turned out horrible...but, everyone got a great laugh.
This past weekend was my birthday weekend. We started off Saturday morning with the removal of our HUGE cherry blossom tree...and before everyone freaks out on us for cutting it down, it was completely infested with ants and rotting from the inside. It was time. We also took the opportunity to dig out the HUGE dying rose bush in the back to. The bush was to the right of the grill. The yard is SLOWLY coming together, we still have a lot of work to do.

And lastly, my birthday.. Chris' surprised me with dinner in Georgetown at Sequoia. We were able to sit outside and enjoy the beautiful weather. He also took me to Coach and I was able to get my pink purse that I had been wanting. It is exactly what I wanted!! I also got a facial gift certificate to Lorien Spa from Chris, a Gift card to Elizabeth Arden Red Door Spas from the Andresen's, and (don't laugh) professional clippers (for Chase) from my parents.

We finished our weekend with the Lockards joining us last night for the next couple nights... they are moving to Texas on Wednesday morning, so we are lucky to have them with us their last nights!

Emily's #1 Babysitter

2009-06-02T07:02:00.000-07:00

Mom and Falkor paid a visit to Emily over the weekend. Falkor, who has been around numerous babies his whole life, can not stand when babies cry... even on tv. He feels the need to rescue them. This picture was taken when Emily woke up from a nap and was crying. Apparently when she wasn't crying, he would go over and get on his back legs and look into the bassinet without touching it. I LOVE this dog!!

EMILY!!!

2009-05-20T10:33:00.002-07:00

Emily Allen Meyer was born Tuesday May 19th at 4:39pm. She weighed in at 7lbs 11oz and was 20.5" long!

I am sooo in love... I have to wait four weeks to see her and love on her... I can't wait! WOW!

2009-05-20T10:33:00.001-07:00

2009-05-19T10:36:00.001-07:00

Sorry, been awhile

2009-05-18T11:24:00.000-07:00

Chris' birthday and Alli's Graduation Weekend: We drove down to Charlottesville on Friday night. We gave ourselves three hours to get down there, but it took four hours! Normally a two hour trip was delayed due to crazy Washington traffic! We met Chris' family at MAS, an amazing tapas restaurant, for a birthday dinner. If you live in Charlottesville and haven't been there, you have been missing out!
We then drove to where we slept both nights, the Mincer's! We celebrated with ice cream cake and a night of Wii. Chris and Mark stayed up till after midnight playing Wii golf. Unfortunately we didn't spend much time with the Mincer's, but hopefully we can get down to Charlottesville again soon! What an amazing family!
We had a jammed packed weekend that flew by! We celebrated Alli's graduation from UVa with lots to eat and lots of walking! We dined at The Local on Saturday night with Alli's roommates and their families. We made it to bed just in time to get back up on Sunday for graduation. It was raining, but luckly Chris' dad purchased ponchos for the family. After a diploma ceremony at Mem Gym, we packed up a few things of Alli's and grabbed a bagel to go at Bodo's! We made it home to find Chase very happy to see us, and a bedtime of 930pm. Back to work and excited for a three day weekend!

Here is one picture from Alli... I will post more later

A weekend off

2009-04-06T12:14:00.000-07:00

I finally had a weekend off from work, so I jam - packed it with things to do. Chris had his first tournament bball game on Friday night. They started down 14-0, but ended up winning by one point. We had dinner with the team at Chipotle and ended the night with Marley and Me. Don't watch it unless you are ready to cry!

Saturday we joined our fellow neighbors for a community clean up... boy, was that fun! I don't even want to begin to tell you the things people throw in the woods... disgusting. Chris then played tennis with a friend while I stayed home and cleaned....hmm, interesting? We had another appointment at Let's Dish and were able to make our eight meals in an hours time.... we divided and conquered! We then had an amazing dinner at Momo with Brittanie and Nate. We decided after dinner that we needed cupcakes from Georgetown Cupcake. We drove into DC and then realized the Key bridge was closed because of the Cherry Blossom Parade, but don't worry, we drove another 30 minutes to get there, and then waited in a 45 minute line for our cupcakes! They are pretty good, but I am debating the decision to ever do that again!

Sunday included errands and a trip to Jones Point with Chase. We saw a bald eagle, it was amazing! Chris played some more basketball while I stayed home and cleaned out the closests and got ready for a trip to goodwill, hmmm... is this happening again? I stay home and work while he plays? I think something needs to change. lol! We "dished" a pork loin in the crock pot for dinner and watched Slumdog Millionaire... still not sure what I think about it. I am gearing up for another weekend off, and then another!! YEAH!!!

Baby Shower pics

2009-03-25T10:45:00.000-07:00

Chris and I traveled home to Indiana last Thursday to see Grandpa Barber and for Jessica's baby shower.

Before picking up Aunt Becky on Friday night, Mom, dad, Chris and I went to see Kelly, Mike and Noah in Indy. Kelly and I have been friends since 4th grade, she had Noah in December after 3 and half months on bed rest, he is truly a miracle! He is so cute! We were only able to visit for an hour, but it was sooo good to catch up with her, I miss her!

On Saturday, Becky and Mom baked and decorated cakes when we went to New Castle to see Grandpa. He is doing amazingly well. Not only did he leave the hospital within a week, but he was only at the rehab clinic for two nights. Jessica, Eric, Dad, Chris and I all went down to rescue him! He was ready to leave! We picked him up, bought him groceries, and had lunch.

Sunday was the Baby Shower, Emily is SET as far as clothes go. I don't think people can resist the temptation to buy the cute little outfits. Jessica received about 30 bags of diapers. Bringing diapers was part of the shower secret surprise, but knowing Jessica she quickly figured it out.

It was a great time, I was not happy to return to the real world!

Baby Shower

2009-03-25T10:44:00.001-07:00

New Guest Quarters

2009-03-12T10:02:00.000-07:00

Last Sunday Chris and I painted one wall in the guest room to match our brand new bedding. We got the awesome duvet cover and shams at Crate and Barrel and then bought a new duvet, new white sheets, new white cover, and new white bed skirt. We also painted the head board to match the little white end tables. We still have to paint the other walls a crisp white, but it already looks great! What do you think???

New Guest Quarters

2009-03-12T10:01:00.001-07:00

Last couple weeks

2009-02-26T08:22:00.000-08:00

Chris and I had a nice fully packed weekend.
We went to Let's Dish on Saturday and made 8 dishes. For anyone who is thinking about doing this, let me be the first to tell you that it is awesome. It has helped Chris and I this week already. The nights we both get home late, we are always tempted to just bag the idea of cooking and we run out and spend $20-30 on a meal. Nights when Chris has school, we do not always have leftovers, so he was doing $5 foot longs. I would just pick up something on the way home because I did not want to cook for just one person. We were wasting so much money, and now we get home and we pull our dinner out of the freezer and cook it up. Some dishes are one portion dishes, some are 3 portion dishes. It is fabulous! The best thing is that you are in charge of what you add to the meal. You follow directions that are laid out for you, but you can add more jalapenos, or less cilantro, whatever you feel like. This way, Chris can do three portions his way, I can do three portions my way. All in all... a great experience and a LOT of fun.

We also went to the recently opened American History Museum. I had two things in mind; the first lady's dresses and the ruby slippers. We also saw the first American Flag, it was truly amazing. The rest of the museum was good, I was a little bored at times, but all in all it was a good experience. Even though I love you mom, dad, and grandma, I will not go again with you... I will drop you off and come back and pick you up... lol. What Chris and I did in 2 hours, would take you 3-5 hours, and I don't think I could do it!

Currently I am at work running the CAA's Swimming and Diving Championships. They run Wednesday - Saturday. Not the best time in the world, but it definitely beats a swim meet with 600 children on the deck.

This weekend is packed again. I have the meet Friday and Saturday, and Chris has his bball on Friday night, and a make up class on Sunday. He will probably have a group meeting on Saturday and/or Sunday, so there goes another weekend! We did just find out that Chris can go home with me when I go home for Jessica's shower. Not only will he get to see my family, but also Aunt Becky is coming! We both are looking forward to seeing Grandpa Barber since he hasn't had the best of outcomes lately (not sure how else to put that), regardless, we are both happy we can see him in March, because we don't know when we will be back.

2009-02-26T08:20:00.001-08:00

Random

2009-02-26T08:14:00.001-08:00

Peanut Allergy at 30

2009-02-13T07:56:00.000-08:00

So, I finally had my allergy appointment yesterday. It was very interesting. I had a skin prick test done. They have this tray, and it is full of the things people are allergic to. It looks like a paint by numbers on steroids. Anyway, they took the peanut sample, dabbed it on my skin and then prick me with it, then a negative sample, and then a positive sample that contains a histamine. If the peanut reaction is the same as the positive sample reaction, then you are allergic to peanuts, and SURE enough it began to swell and a rash broke out. The best thing was, they leave it on for 15 minutes, and you can not itch it because you will then contaminate the test. So I sat there in pain until they came in and rub it off and gave me the cream to make it stop. So, I have a prescription to get my epi pens, and I have to carry epi pens and Benadryl with me every where I go. I have to start looking at the ingredients and make sure that not only does it not have peanuts in it, but that it might have been manufactored at a plant with peanuts. No peanut oil which means no Chik-fil-A and no more Five Guys ever again. I have to be that annoying customer that asks "do you use peanut oil?" or "I have a peanut allergy" GREAT!

oops

2009-01-22T12:53:00.000-08:00

I just realized that I never write on here... usually I just post pictures and voila! Anyway, what has been going on? Let's see. Today was the first day I taught. Just an introduction to the syllabus, but there are 52 students! wow, and 11 are athletes. Brings back old memories!

Chris and I have decided to replace the carpet in the living room with hard wood. Chase actually gave us the idea when she decided to actually eat part of it. She thought to herself one day, "hmmm, I think I smell something on the counter," so she got it, ate it and then kept trying to eat it as it was embedded in the carpet. What was it you ask? oh, fish food. That project will have to wait until mom and dad come out to help us, until then we can't do anything except look at the spot and laugh a little.

I ordered all my wedding pictures and tried not to drown our house in them, I didn't order a ton of them, but the ones I did get are amazing. I bought a 20 x 30 for our basement, and then decided to step on the frame and shatter the glass, so that got put on hold.

Chris goes back to school next week, it has been weird seeing him every Tues/Thurs, not to mention we have to figure out what to cook 2 extra nights a week. I usually just heat up leftovers or have cereal. Semester #2, only what 6 more to go, and another 100k?

I plan on doing a lot of lonely traveling this year. Jessica's baby shower in March, and Amanda's wedding in Vegas in August. Chris will probably get to go to Chicago when our niece is born, but he won't get to come on the other trips.

Underwater in Maui

2009-01-17T09:29:00.001-08:00

still wasting time

2009-01-12T13:23:00.000-08:00

Maui Videos - aka waste time at work!

2009-01-12T11:20:00.000-08:00

Honeymoon in Maui

2009-01-06T10:56:00.001-08:00

Honeymoon in MAUI

2009-01-05T18:31:00.000-08:00

Chris and I spent seven wonderful days and nights in Maui last week. We enjoyed snorkeling, a dinner/magic show, whale watching, a luau, New Years Eve, great food, and SUN SUN SUN!

It was an amazing week celebrating two months of marriage.

I apologize for the video of the whales, the water was extremely rough, and the boat was going up and down... it might just make you sick watching it. lol

Wedding Pictures

2008-12-18T06:42:00.000-08:00

Wedding Pictures can be viewed at:
http://www.conomocity.com/weddings08/erica-chris/

Hope everyone enjoys.

Christmas Time?

2008-12-13T09:52:00.000-08:00

It definitely doesn't feel like Christmas time. I have been working 13 days straight at this point. Chris and I decided that we wouldn't put up a tree this year because we are leaving next Friday for Indiana, and then we head to Maui for our honeymoon!!! We can't wait!
Shopping for Christmas = internet, at least I don't have to stand in line. We are keeping it very low key this year.. no gift exchanging between us.

It has been a disappointing week with the wedding pictures... our photographer, gotta love him, but he is just soo busy with everything going on that we still do not have our pictures... very frustrating when you have so many people asking to see them. Regardless, we WILL get them, and I just need to be more patient...but, then again they are OUR wedding pictures.

I probably won't blog again until after the holidays, so
Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!

Thanksgiving

2008-12-01T07:36:00.001-08:00

Pictures

2008-11-14T07:58:00.001-08:00

Eric Kelley (our photographer) is one busy boy! Not only is he an AMAZING photographer, but he also just opened a coffee shop on the corner at UVa with his fiance.... and he is getting married next month.
I spoke with him yesterday and our pictures should be done by Thanksgiving.
Her is the link to his web page. You can click on Erica and Chris' Wedding and put in your email address, and it will alert you when the photos are done.
The address is
http://www.photoreflect.com/pr3/store.aspx?p=47116

To see a few sneak peeks
http://conomocity.com/journal/?p=166

2008-11-10T14:02:00.001-08:00

More exciting news. George Mason has asked me to teach a class in the spring. A three credit 100 level Personal Health class for the Health, Recreation and Tourism department. Extra cash, and a great place for me to get my foot in the door to start teaching each semester!

I am going to be an AUNT

2008-11-10T10:27:00.000-08:00

It is official and I can tell people.. Jessica, my little sister, is pregnant!!!
Chris and I get married and we get to be an Aunt and an Uncle.. wow!!
Here is her blog page
www.baby-meyer.blogspot.com

The baby is due right around Chris' birthday.

Chris and I went to Indiana this past weekend for the Indiana Reception. We had an amazing turnout of people. It was SOOO good to see all my friends and family again. The best thing was that Chris had met everyone except three people before, so he felt right at home. It was good seeing my sisters and parents again... and mom dressed up Lily and Falkor in bride and groom pictures, coming soon of course!!!

Wedding pics

2008-10-31T14:23:00.000-07:00

Wedding

2008-10-30T11:18:00.001-07:00

From B to A

2008-10-30T11:14:00.000-07:00

Well we are married!
We had an amazing, wonderful, fun filled day on Saturday. The rain held out just long enough for us to walk down the aisle as a married couple. It was my dream come true.
I have about 600 non professional pictures ... thought I would share a few... I will let you know when the real ones are done!
See some of you soon!
Erica ANDRESEN

Virginia Bridal Shower

2008-10-02T07:29:00.001-07:00

Indiana/ Virginia Bridal Shower

2008-09-29T14:49:00.000-07:00

Bridal Showers!!!

My sisters and mom threw me an awesome Indiana shower in June. It was Hawaiian themed and everyone dressed in their brightest outfits and all wore a lei. We dined on homemade cheesecakes, lots of food, and played some great shower games. It was SOOO good to see my Indiana family and friends. I miss them so much. Amanda, Jessica, and mom put so much effort in to this wonderful day. Thank you!!

Alli Andresen threw me an amazing Bridal Shower yesterday here in Virginia. It was so well organized (right up my alley) and so well thought through. Lynn and Alli made the day sooo special with amazing food, drinks, decorations, goodie bags, games... it was just an amazing day spent with friends to celebrate Chris and I. Thank you Alli and Lynn!

the Beach

2008-08-05T13:21:00.001-07:00

Yard Work

2008-07-09T18:07:00.001-07:00

May and June

2008-06-09T16:49:00.001-07:00

What have we been up to?
Below are some pictures from the National Arboretum. I ended up cutting the trip short to the arboretum by completely biting it. I had to go to the Visitors Center to get a band aid and wipes... pretty funny. There are a few pictures of flowers, trees, and of the beautiful columns. We also stopped by the National Harbor and I took the picture of the horses for you Anita, and the eagle for you Dad!

Chris purchased me some beautiful flowers for my big 30th bday. They are the exact color of roses I am carrying down the aisle. He surprised me on Sunday with dinner at the Chart House, with friends Jim, Brittanie and Nate, and a cake from Cold Stone (my favorite red velvet cake with cake batter ice cream). It was a wonderful birthday weekend... I just had to work way to much.

Brittanie and Jim had to take a minute to challenge each other on Wii Mario Cart!!

May/June pictures

2008-06-09T16:48:00.001-07:00

Great Falls and the Nationals

2008-05-20T06:38:00.001-07:00

Great Falls and the Nationals Game

2008-05-20T06:27:00.000-07:00

What happened?

2008-05-07T13:30:00.000-07:00

So we took Chase to the groomer and this is what happened.... I have no idea why they did this, because the same girl that has done it twice before has done it perfectly. The poor dog. Chris and I ended up shaving the rest of her tail down, so she now looks like a hairless cat.

On a happier note, Chris and I went to Foxfields (in Charlottesville). Think big tailgate with horses racing...ok, just think tailgate. It was great to see a lot of friends and dine in our town. We miss it WAY to much!

Be sure to check out the wedding website
www.chris-erica.com... LEAVE us a note on the site!!!

Chase and Foxfields

2008-05-07T09:48:00.001-07:00

Odds and Ends

2008-04-07T10:08:00.001-07:00

Busy Busy Busy

2008-03-31T11:23:00.000-07:00

Mom and Dad came to visit for nine days... you all know what that equals right?
Many home improvements!
Grandma and Anita also came for four short days!
We had fun going to DC and walking around, but were extremely tired by the time we got home.
We were still able to lay a perfect tile floor, add a new patio, put up a new wall in the basement, and plant flowers.
I have attached pictures for your viewing pleasure.

Everything with the wedding is going well... make sure you check out www.chris-erica.com for all that info.
Save the date magnets are being ordered this week!!

new floor

2008-03-31T11:22:00.001-07:00

pictures

2008-02-18T16:15:00.001-08:00

Not sure what to call this

2008-02-18T16:09:00.000-08:00

Chris and I picked out some tile today for the kitchen. We are going to go back to Lowe's and pick out a few more pieces before making a final decision. There is something about Lowe's lighting that makes it look completely different once you get it home.

Chris also found a trail behind our house and we took Chase out for a hike. She was excited to go down and see the water until she got all the way down there and didn't know how to get back up! OOPS! If Video isn't there.. I am trying

I also added my Valentine Day Flowers!!

October 25th it is!

2008-01-18T11:32:00.000-08:00

We booked the place this morning! October 25, 2008 @ 11:30 or 12:30 (still working on that)
Check out pictures:
http://www.pgparks.com/places/eleganthistoric/oxonhill_intro.html

There was a small fire and it has been closed for awhile, so some of the pictures at the bottom are really old. Now I am working on Bridesmaid dresses, and caterers.!! FUN FUN

Just a few pictures....

2008-01-03T07:04:00.000-08:00

Finally have pictures from New Years! Chris and I dined at Clyde's in Alexandria, it was wonderful and then we drove to Woodbridge to watch the ball drop with his parents and friends. We are both back to work and I am already stressing about wedding plans!!

New Years/Engagement

2008-01-03T07:03:00.001-08:00

Here are a few pics....sorry not actual

2007-12-26T17:24:00.001-08:00

I know this is not a actual picture of my hand, but I will get those pictures up when I return home to Virginia. Chris took me to DC and he proposed on the steps of the Jefferson Memorial. Because we met in Charlottesville at the University of Virginia (aka Thomas Jefferson's University) he wanted to incorporate TJ into the proposal. It was amazing, I cried, I said yes, and we started making phone calls.

http://www.knoxjewelers.biz/index.htm?crn=266&rn=1110&action=show_detail

ENGAGED!!!

2007-12-24T11:30:00.001-08:00

Chris and I are ENGAGED!!
Friday night, December 21st at the Jefferson Memorial in DC. Pictures to come soon... promise.

Countdown

2007-12-16T05:02:00.000-08:00

I am currently on my last shift of the two 4 day meets. That means I have worked way to much lately. At 2:30 today I can do whatever I want for two and a half weeks... I still have to stop in at work and "do" things for one more week, but I think I am going to take at least two days off. Other than that... pretty boring and no pictures... haven't had time to do anything at the house.
Boooooo!

What home improvements did we do this weekend?

2007-12-03T08:24:00.000-08:00

All we did was paint the hallway.. one coat done, one coat to go. I put pictures of my decorations up... for mom. Today starts the two weeks of hell at GMU. We have two 4 day swim both starting on Thursdays and going all weekend long. I am glad I finished my shopping early.

Christmas Decorations

2007-12-03T08:23:00.001-08:00

more house updates

2007-11-26T07:24:00.002-08:00

Lots of pictures... check out the latest and greatest updates to the house...

More House updates

2007-11-26T07:24:00.001-08:00

Thanksgiving take 2

2007-11-26T07:21:00.001-08:00

Thanksgiving Part 2

2007-11-24T15:12:00.001-08:00

I survived my first Thanksgiving with Chris' family. We had a wonderful day in Ashland, Virginia at Chris' great aunt and uncles home. It included, shooting, golfing, a pinata, football, and lots of food! I made my impact when I sat in a chair and busted through it. Ok, let me set it up... it was a director's chair with a rip in it, and it was my turn to shoot, so I stood up and then they yelled "you're next", so in mid stand up and I sat back down and poof... right through the seat. I guess they won't forget me for awhile. Oops.

I made my way out on Black Friday, but not until 5 in the evening. I had to decorate for Christmas first. I was able to snag some gifts for Chris at Kohl's and then I made the mistake and went to Wal Mart... never again. We bought some fabric for new pillows and some paint to match for the staircase hallway. We started painting, and it looks great!!

I wish we had this much time off every week... it is wonderful. Chase has enjoyed two outings to the dog park in the last two days. Pictures are coming... and don't be alarmed, we are shooting at a target, NOT an animal!

Working on the Weekends is no fun!

2007-11-17T11:36:00.000-08:00

GMU has a three day swim meet this weekend, so I am stuck at the pool for eight hours a day. Let me tell you how fun it is.... ok, were you able to hear me scream! Anyway, I forgot my camera for the Pacers/Wizards game, but the Pacers got beat anyway.
Chris and I are off to his family's Thanksgiving on Thursday morning. I hear I get to shoot a gun, I will definitely take the camera.

HAVE a WONDERFUL THANKSGIVING!!

Leftovers

2007-11-13T13:27:00.001-08:00

Another weekend gone?

2007-11-12T12:43:00.000-08:00

Hmmm.....
Friday night marked the opening of GMU basketball. Chris, Becca and I enjoyed dinner and beers before the game in the Patriot Club (something special for donors at the arena).... no, not like $5,000, more like a lot less than that because I work for the athletic department, we get the hook up with a smaller donation. They won...
Saturday I shopped while Chris watched his cousin play some football and then we came home and cleaned up because we had company coming. Alli (Chris' sister) and her friend Taylor came into town from UVa and we went to dinner with them in Old Towne.... it was really really good!! We started watching UVa football, but it was a blowout so we rented Ratatouille.
Sunday was our one year mark for living together. Chris surprised me with flowers and then took me to Brunch in Old Towne. It was fantastic. We came home and watched the Colts... I wish I hadn't watched... it was rather embarrassing. Other than that, pretty uneventful weekend.

I won tickets to see the Wizards play the Pacers Wednesday night, so I will take some pictures and get them posted!

Pictures pictures

2007-11-05T08:27:00.000-08:00

I have updated the site with lots of pictures! This week included a trip to the vet.. chase wasn't feeling well, but after a week of antibiotics, she is back up and ready to go!!! Chris and I had a quiet, nice, relaxing weekend at home. I had to work on Saturday, but was back home before I knew it. Chris put up the new Roman shades in our bedroom, I organized the back yard and watched the COLTS lose... how disappointing. This weekend will mark the ONE YEAR of Chris and I moving to the apartment... wow, time flies.

Home Improvements

2007-11-05T08:07:00.001-08:00

Thanksgiving

2007-11-03T08:17:00.001-07:00

New improvements...

2007-10-30T10:10:00.001-07:00

Not that anyone reads this, but if you do....
My parents have come and gone. New improvements include: new counter top, sink, faucet, new floor in laundry room along with baseboard, new mirror installed.... hmmm, is that it? Pictures coming soon, promise.
Saturday night the Andresens met the Barbers for the first time over dinner. It was a wonderful and we all had a great time.
My parents were able to spend an extra night thanks to a security false alarm at Dulles. They ended up leaving Monday morning at 6:30 am from National.
Not much else happening...

Where did the weekend go?

2007-10-22T09:51:00.000-07:00

Not much to say... the swim season is off and running with a double loss by GMU. Sunday was project GET STUFF DONE BEFORE MY PARENTS GET HERE SO THEY DON'T THINK WE DON'T DO ANYTHING UNLESS THEY ARE HERE. We sanded all the top cabinets and applied two coats of stain on them. Tonight we will finish them off with new handles..woo hoo! Chris got handy over the weekend and changed out all the handles in the house to silver instead of gold. It does make a huge difference.
Count Down THREE DAYS till the parents come!

Thanksgiving in October?

2007-10-18T12:52:00.000-07:00

Chris and I flew into Indianapolis last Thursday night and enjoyed a tour at Caterpillar on Friday. Friday evening, we drove down to New Castle and met the entire Armstrong family at Pizza Hut for dinner. Saturday morning we enjoyed Jack's Donuts and then headed to Grandma's to enjoy Thanksgiving in October. There were 44 people in attendance, every year it gets bigger and bigger, and we all ate ourselves into a turkey coma. Sunday, you would think we were all full, but 22 of us decided to go to breakfast at a local Stack's in NC. We flew home Sunday to find Chase very very happy to see us.... stay tuned, pictures coming.

Saturday- Oktoberfest in Shirlington

2007-10-08T10:27:00.001-07:00

2007-10-08T07:15:00.000-07:00

Saturday- Oktoberfest in Shirlington

2007-10-08T06:59:00.000-07:00

12:00pm... After finding parking finally, we strolled up to Oktoberfest in Shirlington. It was HOT!! We had a lot of friends come and join us, but they all showed up at completely different times, so by 5pm, we were still there, still drinking... ugh! Anyway, the night ended around six with dinner at Guapo's with Jane and Dead Fish Jeff (long story). We headed home to find Chase very happy to see us, and me falling asleep around 8:30pm.

Sunday morning went went to the dog park, and then hit up Target to get a new TV stand... pictures included!

Mt. Vernon Wine Festival with GW

2007-10-08T06:45:00.000-07:00

The weekend started with a night with George Washington at his wonderful home in Mount Vernon. Chris, Becca, her parents, and I arrived at Mount Vernon around 6:30 and started sipping wine. It was a beautiful night next to the Potomac and after many tastings, we bought a bottle and sat on a blanket and enjoyed the music and scenary. We left after buying another five bottles of wine...oops.

2007-10-02T10:39:00.000-07:00

It has been a tough week already... Chris and I "thought" we wanted another dog in the family. We thought that maybe Chase missed Falkor and she needed a buddy. We met Shooter McGee last night, 3-5yrs old, white and beige beautiful cocker spaniel. He was a stray and he had been living with a foster family for the last couple weeks, unfortunately before that he was living his life in a kennel. Of course I fell in love with him immediately, but soon my rational side took over and I realized that bringing in a dog that is set in his ways, was not what we needed, and definitely not what Chase wanted... she didn't like that he was taking HER toys. I think for now, we will stay a one dog family and maybe in the future we will adopt from a shelter and let Chase raise the dog. Chase is so sweet, gentle and well behaved, we would be extremely happy to have another dog just like her.

This weekend will be a lot of fun. Friday night, Chris and I are joining Becca and her parents at a wine festival at Mount Vernon. On Saturday we are going to Oktoberfest in Shirlington to try beer. Beer before wine, you're fine? ut oh... anyway, we will definitely take some pictures and share our weekend!!

2007-09-19T09:41:00.002-07:00

Chris and I went to Connecticut to visit family over Labor Day. We had a great time hanging by the pool and teaching Chase to surf. She didn't enjoy herself very much! But, we got a good laugh and some great pictures!

Chase surfing!

Ground ZERO

Pretty ring we found near central park, I can dream, right?

I am NEW (york) to this

2007-09-19T09:37:00.000-07:00

I am new to the whole blogging thing, so I will give it a try.......