Yesterday we went out and looked at more than a handful of houses, since things are moving so quickly, we really need to get our act together. But alas, they were ruled out quickly. In fact, last night we had kept two as definites (one is a brand new construction) but we had to eliminate one we loved because unfortunately the street was too busy and C had horrible visions of me trying to back out of the driveway with a child.
So that brings us to today.
Later this afternoon we are going over to the new construction house to get a better feel for it and get more information. C was going to go alone, but I've decided to head out of work early to join him. While I'm not a super huge fan of the area, or the town itself (though parts of it I do like) this is something so brand new there's still time to choose the flooring and the appliances. I never thought, and neither did C, that we could possibly own new construction in this market. But never say never (whoever would have thought we'd sell our house so quickly?)
Oh and did I mention the home inspection on our house is now set for tomorrow? Talk about moving swiftly along!
Monday, September 17, 2007
Sunday, September 16, 2007
Unprecedented!
It's unprecedented. In a fledgling real estate market, where homes in our area have been on the market for weeks, months and sometimes even years, we have a buyer for our house. In record time.
Was it only two weeks ago we made this decision, got the place ready to sell and got us to this point?
Our listing for our house went up mid-afternoon Thursday, we had three showings Friday (one was a second showing). We had five showings Saturday (and again one was a second showing - the first one) and by early afternoon Saturday we had an offer - and I'm talking about an offer just a little bit under asking price!
Not only are we ecstatic at how quickly this is all moving (they have a large down payment, the house inspection is scheduled for this week and they want to close on Halloween), but I'm personally thrilled that what we had to go through Friday and Saturday is (fingers crossed) behind us.
While many of the couples who came on Saturday were pleasant and "normal" some, really just left a lot to be desired and frankly pissed me off with stupid questions, ignorant agents and plain laziness. I don't know about you, but when I look at a house as a potential buyer (and we've looked at many) if I open a closet door, I close it. These people would trek through the house, leave closet doors open, the shower curtain pulled aside, the window curtains in disarray and even screw with the blinds. Problem for me was that we had so many appointments, I was running around like an idiot tidying up again as each left (and because everyone who came stayed for a while, it only gave me a few minutes between showings to put it all back together). Not to mention wiping up muddy footprints off the kitchen and bathroom floors, not to mention the rugs (leave it to us to have it be a rainy Saturday).
But I digress.
Things are good and this is actually happening (although there was a part of me that for some odd reason thought we would stay here and moving was just an idea). But it is happening, this lovely house I've been happy to call home and leave my mark on is going to be someone else's. Now the hunt is on to find our next home - a place where for the next 30 or so years we will grow old together, raise a family and live happily ever after.
Was it only two weeks ago we made this decision, got the place ready to sell and got us to this point?
Our listing for our house went up mid-afternoon Thursday, we had three showings Friday (one was a second showing). We had five showings Saturday (and again one was a second showing - the first one) and by early afternoon Saturday we had an offer - and I'm talking about an offer just a little bit under asking price!
Not only are we ecstatic at how quickly this is all moving (they have a large down payment, the house inspection is scheduled for this week and they want to close on Halloween), but I'm personally thrilled that what we had to go through Friday and Saturday is (fingers crossed) behind us.
While many of the couples who came on Saturday were pleasant and "normal" some, really just left a lot to be desired and frankly pissed me off with stupid questions, ignorant agents and plain laziness. I don't know about you, but when I look at a house as a potential buyer (and we've looked at many) if I open a closet door, I close it. These people would trek through the house, leave closet doors open, the shower curtain pulled aside, the window curtains in disarray and even screw with the blinds. Problem for me was that we had so many appointments, I was running around like an idiot tidying up again as each left (and because everyone who came stayed for a while, it only gave me a few minutes between showings to put it all back together). Not to mention wiping up muddy footprints off the kitchen and bathroom floors, not to mention the rugs (leave it to us to have it be a rainy Saturday).
But I digress.
Things are good and this is actually happening (although there was a part of me that for some odd reason thought we would stay here and moving was just an idea). But it is happening, this lovely house I've been happy to call home and leave my mark on is going to be someone else's. Now the hunt is on to find our next home - a place where for the next 30 or so years we will grow old together, raise a family and live happily ever after.
Friday, September 14, 2007
Update
Now it looks like both showings today were so good both couples are coming back again! One tonight, the other tomorrow morning. That doesn't even include the (so far) four other appointments tomorrow. Could we actually have a bidding war in this real estate market? I guess a girl can always hope. This just seems unheard of.
I Wasn't Kidding!
We had our first showing this morning and would you believe just after they left they called to see if they can come back and take a second look tomorrow morning??? Craziness!! Add to that another appointment this afternoon and so far two additional ones for tomorrow - I guess there is a lot of interest in others wanting to call our home theirs!
The Price Must Be Right!
We must have done something right. C was all about pricing our house to sell (quickly) and I think he was right. Within six hours of the house listing on MLS we have two showings scheduled already for today! Talk about a rollercoaster. But on the other hand, the house is still totally immaculate, no clutter, nothing other than furniture and some choice staging :-). But poor Miss Molly, because of the two appointments today while we are both at work, she's in a big dog cage (in front of a window of course) in the front bedroom, complete with a blankey to sleep on, her litter box and her food and water. But she was stunned! She's never been caged (unless you count the small travel on to take her to the vet, which of course she hates). C got her in there this morning when I was blow-drying my hair and there she sat and stared at me - completely stunned. Followed by the crying shortly thereafter. But she's safer there and we don't have to worry about her getting out. I just hope everything moves quickly, at least for her. My poor kitty. And poor me. Couldn't find my watch this morning with everything being put away and no clutter, I actually started crying like a 4-year-old. I guess this is what moving and selling stress does to people?
P.S. Mike and Katy - thanks for loaning us the cage we'll take very good care of it and appreciate you helping us keep her safe :-)
P.S. Mike and Katy - thanks for loaning us the cage we'll take very good care of it and appreciate you helping us keep her safe :-)
Thursday, September 13, 2007
Now the Wait Begins
We’ve finished everything that needed to be done and needless to say, at this point, our house is model-home perfect with barely anything, anywhere that would remind anyone that someone else, besides the potential homebuyer, is living there.
It’s neat as a pin. The shelves which were once “cluttered” with things like food, spices, even books, are now homes to things like that antique teapot, a pretty canister set and a vase of flowers. But seriously, whose pantry shelf is bare except for a Crate & Barrel bowl overflowing with polished green apples (which normally sit in the bag on the counter until they are eating)? At least I learned something from reading my Martha Stewart Living and Real
So it’s done. The rooms are organized, everything is cleared out and either tossed, in storage or temporarily living in our basement or attic. No more framed photos, not even my collection of photos of my nephew and my dogs (and Molly, of course) on the side of my fridge. It’s very sad.
Our broker was finishing up taking pictures today and our house should be online and ready to be purchased this afternoon. Now the real fun begins. Hopefully it sells quickly, effortlessly and the discovering and moving into our new digs goes just as smoothly.
Keep your fingers crossed!
It’s neat as a pin. The shelves which were once “cluttered” with things like food, spices, even books, are now homes to things like that antique teapot, a pretty canister set and a vase of flowers. But seriously, whose pantry shelf is bare except for a Crate & Barrel bowl overflowing with polished green apples (which normally sit in the bag on the counter until they are eating)? At least I learned something from reading my Martha Stewart Living and Real
So it’s done. The rooms are organized, everything is cleared out and either tossed, in storage or temporarily living in our basement or attic. No more framed photos, not even my collection of photos of my nephew and my dogs (and Molly, of course) on the side of my fridge. It’s very sad.
Our broker was finishing up taking pictures today and our house should be online and ready to be purchased this afternoon. Now the real fun begins. Hopefully it sells quickly, effortlessly and the discovering and moving into our new digs goes just as smoothly.
Keep your fingers crossed!
Wednesday, September 12, 2007
Sigh
What does it mean when you see the listing sheet for the house you are about to sell and all you can think is "man, I want to live there!"
Man this is hard. I just hope I feel this way about the new house - if not more!
Man this is hard. I just hope I feel this way about the new house - if not more!
Monday, September 10, 2007
When the Going Gets Tough ...
Work is kicking my ass today. I'm not sure if it's because instead of coming in at 7:30 this morning (which is great bec it gives me a good hour and a half to get a lot done without anyone bothering me) I got here at 9:30 (bec I wanted to be there when the broker came this morning) or if it's because I worked so hard all weekend, but I thought I'd take a moment to write in an effort to clear my head and make better sense of things.
So the house is about 90 percent ready for showing. All framed photos have been taken down and boxed up. All cards which live on the mantle have been boxed away as well. The mantel is decorated sparingly, as is the table in our front hall, the table in our upstairs all, my desk, the dining room (you get the idea). I boxed up four boxes of books to make my bookcases more appealing to the eye, and managed to purge a bunch of stuff at the same time. I even spent some time in the yard tossing my summer plants which have decided they lived long enough and cleaned up the ones that are still thriving. We tossed lawn furniture we won't be taking with us (instead planning out the new set we'll buy for our new yard and deck).
This morning, after meeting with our broker, we did realize we still have a few more things to do and for me that means mainly organizing my closet - God help me. She said it's good that she can see the width and depth of it, but any boxes on the floor need to be moved, along with the disorganized piles of clothes climbing to the ceiling on the left side. Well C went out and rented a storage unit so we started putting stuff over there today so I'm thinking as much as I dread the idea, I think some of my clothing and shoes (gasp!) may have to go there. Not so bad considering I already sent all the summer clothes there. We'll see. Still a lot to do and only a day or two left to do it!
Now to wrap my arms around what's happening here at work and hopefully in a few days I'll be able to breathe and again enjoy this experience of finding a new home!
So the house is about 90 percent ready for showing. All framed photos have been taken down and boxed up. All cards which live on the mantle have been boxed away as well. The mantel is decorated sparingly, as is the table in our front hall, the table in our upstairs all, my desk, the dining room (you get the idea). I boxed up four boxes of books to make my bookcases more appealing to the eye, and managed to purge a bunch of stuff at the same time. I even spent some time in the yard tossing my summer plants which have decided they lived long enough and cleaned up the ones that are still thriving. We tossed lawn furniture we won't be taking with us (instead planning out the new set we'll buy for our new yard and deck).
This morning, after meeting with our broker, we did realize we still have a few more things to do and for me that means mainly organizing my closet - God help me. She said it's good that she can see the width and depth of it, but any boxes on the floor need to be moved, along with the disorganized piles of clothes climbing to the ceiling on the left side. Well C went out and rented a storage unit so we started putting stuff over there today so I'm thinking as much as I dread the idea, I think some of my clothing and shoes (gasp!) may have to go there. Not so bad considering I already sent all the summer clothes there. We'll see. Still a lot to do and only a day or two left to do it!
Now to wrap my arms around what's happening here at work and hopefully in a few days I'll be able to breathe and again enjoy this experience of finding a new home!
Tuesday, September 04, 2007
Some Big Decisions Finally Made
So they say home is where the heart is right? Well for me home is where I can live happily and comfortable with C – while also being fairly close to my family. But at the end of the day, C and I are making this move to start our own family.
While we’ve been house hunting for quite some time now, mostly in one area of the state, a few weeks back we went looking to see what we could get closer to my family. Now keep in mind, right now I’m only 25 miles away from them (but it seems farther as this area I’m in now is still, even after nearly 5 years, totally new to me). But I digress.
So off to my hometown we went where we found some interesting properties but what it meant was downsizing from our antique colonial into a much, smaller ranch or cape with a tiny lot for a significant amount of money over what we want to pay. But C was willing to do it. And I really wanted it. All to be closer to my folks.
All this is being complicated by the fact we want to put our house on the market ASAP for the fall, rather than wait for spring. And while C is good at putting together a plan and turning it into an action, I, on the other hand, when it comes to big decisions, flip flop, try to avoid them at all costs, and take it to an emotional level. But I’m working on that and I think I’m doing pretty well.
Throughout the weeks and says of discussion, the idea of not moving back to my hometown would literally bring me to tears, all because I want to be closer to my mom, dad and brother. Which I finally realized is insane because (a) I don’t live near them now and haven’t in nearly 5 years (and I’m down there every weekend, and (b) everything we want (affordability, lots of land, nice neighborhoods, great schools, a lot of house for less money) is all up here. And really, at the end of the day is it that much farther away? (Sorry girls, but it looks like Liz won't be moving back to the area)
Last weekend was a real turning point for us. We did some more research – because we needed to decide what we were going to do, where we were going to go and then put the plan into action. What we didn’t know is that if we looked for homes a bit further north than where we live now (approx 6-10 miles) we are talking about a whole lot of house (nearly 2,200 sq ft) on a whole lot of land, for a whole lot less than we’d spend moving back to my home town (where incidentally the taxes are also insanely high).
That being said, we mulled our options, made lists, had lots and lots of discussions and made our decision to get the house ready to market (ASAP) and start looking for a new home. Now to pack up everything we have that we aren't using so this house will fit the bill of any "Sell This House" episode.
And I have to say after all the drama (internal and external) I’m happy with the decision because I know it’s the right one. I’m happy that we are doing this together I’m happy that we are planning to have a family, I’m just happy!
I can't wait for this next step in our lives together and setting up our new home! Whoo hoo!
Thank God because up until a few days ago I was having nightmares like you wouldn’t believe about buying a new house, moving, losing shoes, even one where a crown on one of my teeth fell off – and if you know me you know nightmares are a rarity in my world.
But, because I’m me, I’m still having inner turmoil on one tiny issue – figuring out what to do with Miss Molly when the house is being shown.
Do we keep her in the house and let the realtor know she can’t get out and put notes on the doors? Or do we simply move her somewhere else in the meantime (which I really don’t want to do)? It’s not as simple as getting a heads-up when someone is coming to look at the house, as in this market if we want it to move (which we do) we need to make it accessible at all times of the day whether we are home or not.
Anyone have any thoughts or words of wisdom?
While we’ve been house hunting for quite some time now, mostly in one area of the state, a few weeks back we went looking to see what we could get closer to my family. Now keep in mind, right now I’m only 25 miles away from them (but it seems farther as this area I’m in now is still, even after nearly 5 years, totally new to me). But I digress.
So off to my hometown we went where we found some interesting properties but what it meant was downsizing from our antique colonial into a much, smaller ranch or cape with a tiny lot for a significant amount of money over what we want to pay. But C was willing to do it. And I really wanted it. All to be closer to my folks.
All this is being complicated by the fact we want to put our house on the market ASAP for the fall, rather than wait for spring. And while C is good at putting together a plan and turning it into an action, I, on the other hand, when it comes to big decisions, flip flop, try to avoid them at all costs, and take it to an emotional level. But I’m working on that and I think I’m doing pretty well.
Throughout the weeks and says of discussion, the idea of not moving back to my hometown would literally bring me to tears, all because I want to be closer to my mom, dad and brother. Which I finally realized is insane because (a) I don’t live near them now and haven’t in nearly 5 years (and I’m down there every weekend, and (b) everything we want (affordability, lots of land, nice neighborhoods, great schools, a lot of house for less money) is all up here. And really, at the end of the day is it that much farther away? (Sorry girls, but it looks like Liz won't be moving back to the area)
Last weekend was a real turning point for us. We did some more research – because we needed to decide what we were going to do, where we were going to go and then put the plan into action. What we didn’t know is that if we looked for homes a bit further north than where we live now (approx 6-10 miles) we are talking about a whole lot of house (nearly 2,200 sq ft) on a whole lot of land, for a whole lot less than we’d spend moving back to my home town (where incidentally the taxes are also insanely high).
That being said, we mulled our options, made lists, had lots and lots of discussions and made our decision to get the house ready to market (ASAP) and start looking for a new home. Now to pack up everything we have that we aren't using so this house will fit the bill of any "Sell This House" episode.
And I have to say after all the drama (internal and external) I’m happy with the decision because I know it’s the right one. I’m happy that we are doing this together I’m happy that we are planning to have a family, I’m just happy!
I can't wait for this next step in our lives together and setting up our new home! Whoo hoo!
Thank God because up until a few days ago I was having nightmares like you wouldn’t believe about buying a new house, moving, losing shoes, even one where a crown on one of my teeth fell off – and if you know me you know nightmares are a rarity in my world.
But, because I’m me, I’m still having inner turmoil on one tiny issue – figuring out what to do with Miss Molly when the house is being shown.
Do we keep her in the house and let the realtor know she can’t get out and put notes on the doors? Or do we simply move her somewhere else in the meantime (which I really don’t want to do)? It’s not as simple as getting a heads-up when someone is coming to look at the house, as in this market if we want it to move (which we do) we need to make it accessible at all times of the day whether we are home or not.
Anyone have any thoughts or words of wisdom?
Done!
So those of you who have been following this blog know that C has been working on the house we are currently in for years now (more years than anyone really should). Up until recently the last of our four bedrooms has been complete and I just had to share the transformation with you all. I love it!
Before:
After:
Before:
After:
Wednesday, August 22, 2007
He's Really All That
There's nothing I enjoy more than getting together with my family and for my birthday dinner, it was as always, highly enjoyable. Of course, what makes these get togethers even more fun these days is the attendance of my 15-month-old nephew. He's so good - the little guy sat at the table all during dinner, enjoying himself, sharing my scallops with me, looking up intensely and nodding when the waiter was talking to him. He was an absolute joy, an angel and just precious. It was also my first experience of hearing him talk (aside from saying Daddy, uh oh, and no). My mother handed him a cracker and clear as day he said "cracker." Later I was in Stride Rite with him and looking at shoes and as I held one up he looked at me and said "shoe." I simply love this little guy!
My absolute favorite picture of the two of us:
The little man:
Enjoying some man time with C:
So cute:
Checking out every grown-up man's favorite store (that's my brother and C off to the left:
My absolute favorite picture of the two of us:
The little man:
Enjoying some man time with C:
So cute:
Checking out every grown-up man's favorite store (that's my brother and C off to the left:
Oops, I did it again!
If you can believe it (and I know MANY of you can't) I once again tried my hand at camping with C's family. Again, I was pleasantly surprised by how much fun I had (though I will admit to checking my email via the Blackberry - yep I had service). And again, like last year, I can handle anything for one night. C did have a nice surprise for me - our own tent! Last year we shared one. And by the way, this is how we started by birthday weekend!
Here's some pix!
C setting up our tent - heck it was small but who cares - it was all ours!
The two of us:
Our campsite:
Here's some pix!
C setting up our tent - heck it was small but who cares - it was all ours!
The two of us:
Our campsite:
Sunday, August 19, 2007
Whoo hoo!
Whoo hoo! Turns out not only do I have a bunch of time left to take off from work this year, I have a super understanding boss. So I'm doing something totally out of my usual realm, I'm going to take it. I'm starting by taking tomorrow - my girlfriend Jenn is on vacation this week and I want to be part of it. Plus nothing feels better than sitting in my dining room on a Sunday night, typing a quick post and knowing I don't have to be anywhere but at the beach or the outlets tomorrow (the weather will be our deciding factor on which).
I'll be back up online either tomorrow night or Tuesday to fill you in on what's been going on - lots!
Untl then ...
I'll be back up online either tomorrow night or Tuesday to fill you in on what's been going on - lots!
Untl then ...
Thursday, August 09, 2007
I'm Going to Be How Old????
Where does the time go? In four days I'm going to be 37 (GULP) - yes 37 - In a nutshell that means in three years I'm going to be 40 (WHEN DID THIS HAPPEN??!!??) and next spring I'm 20 years out of high school (YOU'VE GOT TO BE KIDDING ME!).
I guess I never realized that people actually do get old - or that I would.
No significant birthday has affected me tremendously. Perhaps it's because I have a great corp of friends who always made sure I celebrated in style, or my family which always goes out of its way to celebrate all of our birthdays (significant others included). But 37 - Ouch!
As a kid they were always fun because birthdays meant pool parties - one of the perks of being a summer baby!
Course I'm joining a very well known group of celebrities who are 37: Minnie Driver, Lara Flynn Boyle, Mariah Carey, Matthew McConaughey, Vince Vaughn, Uma Thurman, Skeet Ulrich, Heather Graham, Claudia Schiffer, Kelly Ripa, Matt Damon, Ethan Hawke and Jennifer Connelly (all born in 1970 like myself).
If I look at it this way it doesn't seem like a bad club to be a part of :-)
I also share my actual birth date with Susan Saint James, Sarah Brightman, Halle Barry, Danielle Steel and Magic Johnson.
But at the end of the day there's one thing that always makes me feel young - of my group of friends from high school and childhood I'm still the baby - thank God for the summer birthday!
I guess I never realized that people actually do get old - or that I would.
No significant birthday has affected me tremendously. Perhaps it's because I have a great corp of friends who always made sure I celebrated in style, or my family which always goes out of its way to celebrate all of our birthdays (significant others included). But 37 - Ouch!
As a kid they were always fun because birthdays meant pool parties - one of the perks of being a summer baby!
Course I'm joining a very well known group of celebrities who are 37: Minnie Driver, Lara Flynn Boyle, Mariah Carey, Matthew McConaughey, Vince Vaughn, Uma Thurman, Skeet Ulrich, Heather Graham, Claudia Schiffer, Kelly Ripa, Matt Damon, Ethan Hawke and Jennifer Connelly (all born in 1970 like myself).
If I look at it this way it doesn't seem like a bad club to be a part of :-)
I also share my actual birth date with Susan Saint James, Sarah Brightman, Halle Barry, Danielle Steel and Magic Johnson.
But at the end of the day there's one thing that always makes me feel young - of my group of friends from high school and childhood I'm still the baby - thank God for the summer birthday!
Ain't Nothing Like A New Stove
So the stove we have at the house, although not super old - really was entering its final days months ago, but we persavered and dealt with it. First it wouldn't light every now and then (the oven part). Then it was a bit more consistent and I'd constantly find C on the floor lighting the pilot. (scary to me! though he insisted it really isn't but I'm a fraidy cat about things like that). Keep in mind, that even if it did light - it wouldn't hold heat consistently so you had to be sure to account for that time when cooking.
We did however manage to get through a couple of dinner parties with it no problem. We even managed a dinner party where we had to keep the oven on broil to hold the temperature. But it actually worked out.*
The hope was to not have to buy a new stove until we got down to business to renovating our kitchen, but sometimes you just can't wait.
The straw that broke the camel's back came about a week and a half ago when C went to make cookies - which is not an easy task when you have to keep the stove set on broil to get it to work. Needless to say two cookie sheets full came out a bit overdone. SO it was off to Sears to buy a replacement and say goodbye forever to our
unreliable stove.
So we said goodbye to this:
And said hello to this: (did I mention it has a fifth burner with a griddle) - so cool!
(*Note to Kristi: This is probably part of the reason I haven't broken out the KitchenAid yet - course now I can really get down to it!)
We did however manage to get through a couple of dinner parties with it no problem. We even managed a dinner party where we had to keep the oven on broil to hold the temperature. But it actually worked out.*
The hope was to not have to buy a new stove until we got down to business to renovating our kitchen, but sometimes you just can't wait.
The straw that broke the camel's back came about a week and a half ago when C went to make cookies - which is not an easy task when you have to keep the stove set on broil to get it to work. Needless to say two cookie sheets full came out a bit overdone. SO it was off to Sears to buy a replacement and say goodbye forever to our
unreliable stove.
So we said goodbye to this:
And said hello to this: (did I mention it has a fifth burner with a griddle) - so cool!
(*Note to Kristi: This is probably part of the reason I haven't broken out the KitchenAid yet - course now I can really get down to it!)
Monday, August 06, 2007
What I Did on My Summer Vacation
After a solid straight year of busting my ass at work (with the exception of a few days off here and there), I finally took some time away from the office.
I began my vacation with an impromptu cookout at mom and dad's – which of course always means some quality time with my nephew.
Next, we traveled to Newport, RI for some rest and relaxation, enjoying the atmosphere and the views and taking in some mansion tours.
We stayed at the lovely America's Cup Inn right in the heart of downtown Newport.
Here's what our room looked like:
And had a yummy, romantic dinner at the Clarke Cook House restaurant right on Bannister's Wharf.
The next day, I took C on a tour of the Breakers. He had never been and we both really enjoyed it. (Guess the trick for me was not to go there for 10 years and then it was all new again)
After Newport, we headed west to Connecticut to see if the casino could give us any luck.
After a nice dinner and an overnight stay there we headed home.
We spent a couple of days relaxing at home, getting things organized, and oh yeah, buying a new stove because the old one simply had to go – too unreliable! More on that in my next post.
Even Miss Molly had a relaxing week:
And I ended my vacation with some beach time with a girlfriend, a kick-ass tan, and finishing up a lot of pleasure reading.
What did I learn from my summer vacation? That one week is not enough. From now on it’s two weeks or bust for this busy girl!
Now to get back into the swing of things at work!
I began my vacation with an impromptu cookout at mom and dad's – which of course always means some quality time with my nephew.
Next, we traveled to Newport, RI for some rest and relaxation, enjoying the atmosphere and the views and taking in some mansion tours.
We stayed at the lovely America's Cup Inn right in the heart of downtown Newport.
Here's what our room looked like:
And had a yummy, romantic dinner at the Clarke Cook House restaurant right on Bannister's Wharf.
The next day, I took C on a tour of the Breakers. He had never been and we both really enjoyed it. (Guess the trick for me was not to go there for 10 years and then it was all new again)
After Newport, we headed west to Connecticut to see if the casino could give us any luck.
After a nice dinner and an overnight stay there we headed home.
We spent a couple of days relaxing at home, getting things organized, and oh yeah, buying a new stove because the old one simply had to go – too unreliable! More on that in my next post.
Even Miss Molly had a relaxing week:
And I ended my vacation with some beach time with a girlfriend, a kick-ass tan, and finishing up a lot of pleasure reading.
What did I learn from my summer vacation? That one week is not enough. From now on it’s two weeks or bust for this busy girl!
Now to get back into the swing of things at work!
Wednesday, July 25, 2007
Time for a Break
Believe it or not it’s been nearly ONE FULL YEAR since I’ve taken a vacation from my job. I was actually ordered months ago by my boss to take some time off – but that certainly isn’t an easy task in the publishing business, but I finally found a way to do it. I literally have one week during the month of August when we aren’t shipping an issue, so I’m sliding in my vacation there and I couldn’t be happier.
I can spend my days reading what I want to read, not gallies upon gallies of copy that needs to be edited. I can choose to have a mid-afternoon glass of vino or indulge in olives and cheese for lunch. I can pick up and go wherever I want, whenever I want during the course of the day without wondering if anyone is looking for me. I can leisurely wander through stores browsing (and of course shopping) instead of my usual lunch-time rush through TJ Maxx (that’s all I have for clothing retail near work) at lightening speed.
So bring it on – vacation here I come. Now to get through the next two and a half days of work and get this current issue out the door!
I can spend my days reading what I want to read, not gallies upon gallies of copy that needs to be edited. I can choose to have a mid-afternoon glass of vino or indulge in olives and cheese for lunch. I can pick up and go wherever I want, whenever I want during the course of the day without wondering if anyone is looking for me. I can leisurely wander through stores browsing (and of course shopping) instead of my usual lunch-time rush through TJ Maxx (that’s all I have for clothing retail near work) at lightening speed.
So bring it on – vacation here I come. Now to get through the next two and a half days of work and get this current issue out the door!
Monday, July 23, 2007
Stewie Griffin and I Have Something in Common!
Oh man - come every summer my super fair white skin turns a nice shade of tan (even if I'm wearing SPF40 which I try to do). It's funny actually, I'm the only family member that tans - everyone else tends to turn a shade of pink (course I'm also the only one who doesn't have naturally blonde hair) - but we all have the same color eyes (blue) and the same skin tone, but I digress.
So this morning C made a funny - he compared me to "tan Stewie" - an episode of "Family Guy" where Stewie gets a tan, drinks Tab and hangs out with his new tan friends. While I thought it was funny I didn't even realize how so until I found a copy of the episode on youtube and just had to share. Enjoy!
So this morning C made a funny - he compared me to "tan Stewie" - an episode of "Family Guy" where Stewie gets a tan, drinks Tab and hangs out with his new tan friends. While I thought it was funny I didn't even realize how so until I found a copy of the episode on youtube and just had to share. Enjoy!
Wednesday, July 18, 2007
Ironic Twist?
All I can say is this is totally ironic - I was just cruising the Internet looking for a new bathing suit (believe it or not I had several but an entire bin of them disappeared a year ago - good ones that fit perfectly and cost a small fortune mind you), when I came across this headline:
"Bridget Moynahan to Have Tom Brady Baby on Gisele Bundchen's Birthday"
Are you kidding me? I hope Bridget holds out as long as possible - besides, most first babies are late anyway right?
Oh and the kicker of the whole story? Gisele is angry that the baby is expected to be born on her birthday. Oh man - celebrity gossip - I love it, yet at times it drives me insane.
That's all for now.
"Bridget Moynahan to Have Tom Brady Baby on Gisele Bundchen's Birthday"
Are you kidding me? I hope Bridget holds out as long as possible - besides, most first babies are late anyway right?
Oh and the kicker of the whole story? Gisele is angry that the baby is expected to be born on her birthday. Oh man - celebrity gossip - I love it, yet at times it drives me insane.
That's all for now.
Tuesday, July 10, 2007
What Is That Ticking Sound??
Maybe it’s because in exactly four weeks and three days I’ll be joining the ranks of woman in their “late 30’s.” (where they heck does the time go???) Maybe it’s because everyone around me is either a happy parent of an infant or toddler, pregnant or trying to get pregnant, but man all of a sudden that clock everyone warns you about is ticking so loudly I can barely sleep!
Either way it’s funny how life changes. How dreams you had as a little girl to those you have in your teens and 20s can be just that, dreams.
I was engaged in my 20s (actually more than once I hate to admit) but man how different my life would be now if I had actually gone through with it. Sure, there’s no doubt I’d have children by now, but no guarantees I wouldn’t be joining the ranks of divorced, single moms raising children and working full time.
But, thankfully, that was not the case.
The funny thing is I have several friends who were married back then, right out of college, and had children and some are nearing the teenage years. I hear about it – every story, every scare, every injury, every success they have. And I’ve known them since they were born and that to me is something to be thankful for.
It wasn’t until a couple of years ago when everything really finally changed and it’s a change that has made my life so much better and so much more fulfilling than I ever though it could be. I didn’t meet C until I was in my mid-30s, but frankly if I had to wait until my mid-40s to have him unexpectantly come into my life, that would have been just fine. I never thought I would find “the one.” But yet, here he is beside me every step of the way morning to night, seven days a week.
He’s loving, caring, considerate, organized, charming, thoughtful, handsome, fun, a jokester, and he’s all mine. (did I also mention he does the laundry?) What more could a girl want? I never really thought anything, but every now and then the thought of a family comes to mind.
Now I’m not afraid it’s not going to happen. Not yet. But then again, you never know. And surely that will be something we will tend to together when we get married, when the time is right.
But I can’t help but wonder how it will all happen. If I can even have a child. Who knows? I know there are tests to see your chances, but frankly that’s not even something I want to think about because I’d rather know when the time is right, not ahead of time. Lord knows I have enough to worry about on a day-to-day basis. But let’s be honest. I’m in my late 30s. I’ve never been pregnant. After 36 a pregnancy is considered “high risk,” and I’ve always told myself if it didn’t happen before I turned 40 I simply wouldn’t even try. After all, it’s not a life half-lived if we don’t have children, right?
In the meantime, I try to suppress these thoughts which come creeping up on me at the least inopportune times and try to spread my love of children onto my girlfriend’s children and even more so on my only nephew making sure he’s happy and buying him everything from a limited edition Count Von Count (from Sesame Street) doll to books to fill his bookcase (even though I found myself adding some of my childhood favorites when purchasing some a couple of weeks ago). He also gets lots of hugs and kisses whenever I can get my hands on the little guy.
For now being an aunt keeps those thoughts at bay.
Either way it’s funny how life changes. How dreams you had as a little girl to those you have in your teens and 20s can be just that, dreams.
I was engaged in my 20s (actually more than once I hate to admit) but man how different my life would be now if I had actually gone through with it. Sure, there’s no doubt I’d have children by now, but no guarantees I wouldn’t be joining the ranks of divorced, single moms raising children and working full time.
But, thankfully, that was not the case.
The funny thing is I have several friends who were married back then, right out of college, and had children and some are nearing the teenage years. I hear about it – every story, every scare, every injury, every success they have. And I’ve known them since they were born and that to me is something to be thankful for.
It wasn’t until a couple of years ago when everything really finally changed and it’s a change that has made my life so much better and so much more fulfilling than I ever though it could be. I didn’t meet C until I was in my mid-30s, but frankly if I had to wait until my mid-40s to have him unexpectantly come into my life, that would have been just fine. I never thought I would find “the one.” But yet, here he is beside me every step of the way morning to night, seven days a week.
He’s loving, caring, considerate, organized, charming, thoughtful, handsome, fun, a jokester, and he’s all mine. (did I also mention he does the laundry?) What more could a girl want? I never really thought anything, but every now and then the thought of a family comes to mind.
Now I’m not afraid it’s not going to happen. Not yet. But then again, you never know. And surely that will be something we will tend to together when we get married, when the time is right.
But I can’t help but wonder how it will all happen. If I can even have a child. Who knows? I know there are tests to see your chances, but frankly that’s not even something I want to think about because I’d rather know when the time is right, not ahead of time. Lord knows I have enough to worry about on a day-to-day basis. But let’s be honest. I’m in my late 30s. I’ve never been pregnant. After 36 a pregnancy is considered “high risk,” and I’ve always told myself if it didn’t happen before I turned 40 I simply wouldn’t even try. After all, it’s not a life half-lived if we don’t have children, right?
In the meantime, I try to suppress these thoughts which come creeping up on me at the least inopportune times and try to spread my love of children onto my girlfriend’s children and even more so on my only nephew making sure he’s happy and buying him everything from a limited edition Count Von Count (from Sesame Street) doll to books to fill his bookcase (even though I found myself adding some of my childhood favorites when purchasing some a couple of weeks ago). He also gets lots of hugs and kisses whenever I can get my hands on the little guy.
For now being an aunt keeps those thoughts at bay.
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