Christmas 2007

Ryan and I had a fantastic Christmas in Uniontown. We spent all of our time hanging out with family. We hung out with my dad (can't believe it, but I forgot to take pictures of us there), making homemade bread and yule logs. We visited almost all of the Rice's and Ryan and I cooked Christmas Eve dinner and enjoyed it with them. I still can't believe my grandma actually cooks for this many people weekly. I'm very lucky to come from a family that still lives within 5 miles of each other and actually get together on a weekly basis. I miss it so much! We also spent some time with my brothers and sisters, which was great since I haven't seen them much over the past year. I really missed everyone...and didn't want to come home. I suppose that's when you know you had a great time, when you don't want it to end. I already miss everyone terribly. Thanks for such a wonderful Christmas, everyone! We're looking forward to it again next year! This is definitely not everyone...I missed most of the adults in these photos.

The Rice Family Christmas

Our appetizer spread...yummy!

Pap-pap Rice

Gram with Gabbi, Dylan and Timmy
getting ready to sing "Happy Birthday Jesus"

Ryan and my brother, Evan

Anne, Logan, Gabbi and Maddi

Youngest Rice's - Gabbi and Logan

Terah, Logan and Jerry

TJ

Tristan and Emily

Tori

Spending time with siblings...

my sister Andrea with her boyfriend Frank

my sister Tara and niece Becca

Charlie, brother"-in-law"
doesn't he just look fun?

my brother, Ryan
nephew, Christian
and niece, Becca

Yes, Robert...I know this post is too long and has too many pictures. You know I'm a "rule" breaker! :-)

If I were a Rich Man...

I am one of those traditionalists who believe I should tip a little or a little extra during the holidays, but my more realistic husband disagrees...strongly. So I decided to try to find the protocol to back up my arguement for next year. There was not much solid information out there, but I did find this site...and all I can say is we'd be broke! Will I ever find a happy medium?

http://articles.moneycentral.msn.com/SavingandDebt/Advice/TheFineArtOfHolidayTipping.aspx?page=1

No Surprises Here!

My coworker went to a training course and shared the Myers-Briggs test she took. So I found one that seems pretty darn good, just for fun and free online. Ryan and I both took the test, and it was pretty darn accurate. I learned a lot about my husband and also that we really are complete opposites. I have a new understanding for why some of the things he does bug the crap out of me (and vice-versa I'm sure).

Below you'll find a summary of our personalities. You'll have to check it out for yourself! Please let us know what your personality type is. While it's not a completely new concept to me, I have a new found fascination with it!

http://www.humanmetrics.com/cgi-win/JTypes2.asp

Ryan has personality type: INTP - Portrait of the Architect

Strength of the preferences:
Introverted 33%
Intuitive 75%
Thinking 25%
Perceiving 56%

One of the tip offs that a person is an INTP an obsession with logical correctness. Errors are not often due to poor logic, but usually a result of overlooking details or incorrect context. INTPs are pensive, analytical and may venture so deeply into thought as to seem detached, and often actually are oblivious to the world around them. Precise about their descriptions, INTPs will often correct others (or be sorely tempted to) if the shade of meaning is a bit off. INTPs are relatively easy-going and amenable to anything until their principles are violated, when they may become outspoken and inflexible. They prefer a reserved albeit benign ambiance, not wishing to make spectacles of themselves. A major concern for INTPs is the haunting sense of impending failure. They spend considerable time second-guessing themselves. The open-endedness conjoined with the need for competence is expressed in a sense that one's conclusion may well be met by an equally plausible alternative solution, and that, after all, one may very well have overlooked some critical bit of data. An INTP arguing a point may very well be trying to convince himself as much as his opposition. Mathematics is a system where many INTPs love to play, similarly languages, and any complex systems. Understanding, exploring, mastering, and manipulating systems can overtake the INTP's conscious thought. This fascination for logical wholes and their inner workings is often expressed in a detachment from the environment, a concentration where time is forgotten and extraneous stimuli are held at bay. Accomplishing a task or goal with this knowledge is secondary. They especially enjoy games...including Risk, Bridge, Stratego, Chess, and word games. Famous INTPs (take note they're all men): Socrates, Descartes, Pascal, Sir Isaac Newton, James Madison, John Quincy Adams, Gerald Ford, Albert Einstein, Henri Mancini, Bob Newhart, Rick Moranis (Honey, I Shrunk The Kids) and Tiger Woods

Erin has personality type: ENFJ - Portrait of the Teacher

Strength of the preferences:
Extroverted 11%
Intuitive 38%
Feeling 50%
Judging 100%

ENFJs are idealists, abstract in thought and speech, cooperative in achieving goals, and directive and extroverted in interpersonal relations. They like to have things settled and arranged, preferring to plan engagements ahead of time and are absolutely reliable in honoring commitments. ENFJs are the benevolent 'pedagogues' of humanity. ENFJs are very much at home in complex situations which require the juggling of much data with little pre-planning, often dreaming up, effortlessly and endlessly, activities for groups to engage in, and stimulating roles for members of the group to play. Even as children, the ENFJs may attract other children ready to follow their lead and lead without seeming to do so. ENFJs expect the very best of those around them, and this expectation, usually expressed as enthusiastic encouragement, motivates action in others and the desire to live up to their expectations. ENFJs take for granted that their expectations will be met, their implicit commands obeyed, never doubting that people will want to do what they suggest. And, more often than not, people do, because of the extraordinary charisma. ENFJs value harmonious human relations above all else, can handle people with charm and concern, and are usually popular. ENFJs are not social as educational leaders, but are interested primarily in the personal growth and development of others, and less in attending to their social needs. ENFJs bring infectious energy to their intimate relationships, and they make passionate and delightfully creative companions. However, the intensity of their wishes can create interpersonal conflict. They can overwhelm loved ones with exuberance, that everyone wants to be helped along the path of self-discovery. Then, when their loved ones resist their pressure or fail to meet idealistic expectations, they can feel frustrated, disillusioned, or even betrayed by the persons they care most about. ENFJs believe in their dreams, and see themselves as helpers and enablers, which they usually are. The ENFJs focus is expansive, often juggling an amazing number of responsibilities simultaneously and have a tremendous entrepreneurial ability. They are apt to neglect themselves and their own needs for the needs of others. ENFJs often take on more of the burdens of others than they can bear. ENFJs are found in no more than 2 or 3 percent of the population. Famous ENFJ's: Lincoln, Reagan, Pope John Paul II, Maslow, Ross Perot, Sean Connery, Dick Van Dyke, Andy Griffith, Craig T. Nelson, Diane Sawyer, Randy Quaid, Tommy Lee Jones, Kirstie Alley, Michael Jordan, Johnny Depp, Oprah Winfrey, Bob Saget, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Ben Stiller, Peyton Manning, Matthew McConaughey, Ben Affleck, and John Cusack; TRADEMARK: "The first shall be last"

Plowing My Way to Work

So who do you suppose is in charge of keeping up the roads when it snows? Could it be the Virginia Dept. of Transportation? I wonder if they got that memo? And exactly how much advance notice do they need to do their job...because I knew last Saturday that it was going to snow today. I'm so glad our car tax of $600 per year is put to good use! Are you freaking kidding me?

Let me back up...since last Saturday, I had planned to wake up this morning a little early in case it started to snow because it would cause traffic to move a little slower. I didn't leave the house as early as I'd hoped, but I left for work at 7:00am to be there by 8:00. It had in fact started to snow, but there was less than 1/4 inch on the ground. The roads were a little icy, particularly in the neighborhoods so I knew it would be slow, but I had no idea what I was actually in for over the next couple of hours.

As I made the second turn away from house, I suddenly realized that my worst nightmare was about to occur. There was one car turned sideways in the middle of the road and another slid around it. When I approached 267, the toll road 25 minutes later (2 miles), I realized it was going to be a long morning. ...deep breaths and Christmas music were my plan to keep calm.

When all was said and done, I had traveled exactly 10.8 miles in exactly 1 hour and 45 minutes, which means that my average speed was 6.17mph. After those initial 10.8 miles, my final 8 miles went much more smoothly because it hadn't begun to snow much inside the beltway and everyone was stuck on the highways. I had decided to take a few back roads when I could. My final trip time was 2 hours and 20 minutes to drive 18 miles!

Along the way this morning, I saw 11 accidents, ranging from fender benders to cars that had spun 180 degrees and crashed into the Jersey Wall, to an SUV that was completely flipped over (I wonder how fast that guy was going). It was by far the craziest traffic morning I'd ever witnessed. It was honestly like something from an 'end of the world' movie!

After VDOT received much of the blame for the nightmare traffic, for neglecting to be proactive (ultimately they were stuck in the same traffic everyone else was because they decided to start treating the roads after rush hour had started and there were accidents all over the place...really smart guys), they reported that they don't treat the roads until after it starts to snow. I suppose that translates to after several serious accidents have occurred.


We now have several inches of snow and the temperatures are dropping into the 20's tonight. And did you know they don't actually plow anything in Virginia, they just throw sand with some chemicals on top of it...you know, so it can be a big frozen mess in the morning. I can't wait until tomorrow morning! At least Ryan is taking me to work so we can crawl in the HOV lanes where most of the accidents occur because people drive way too fast.

At least the snow is peaceful and beautiful - I do love the snow...I just love it more in Pennsylvania where they know what to do with it and people know how to drive in it.

Chistmas Outside Pictures

Heading out to Ryan's work Christmas party, after
a long day of decorating the outside of the house

Where's Ryan?

Oh, on the roof!

Our house, all decorated for the holidays.
The hard work was definately worth it!

Our Christmas Moose, isn't he cute?

His head turns side to side.

Christmas In-House Pictures

I made a wreath for the door, but it is too thick to allow

the door to close and too heavy for the wreath holder

to hold it...still working on it.

Foyer

Stairs

Our tree - check out the angel, she's as big as the tree!

Living Room

Even the TV gets decorations...since we don't have a mantle.

Dining Room Table Centerpiece - I made that too...

Everything needs a decoration -

No, we haven't turned it on.

Great Weekend

We had a great weekend, and I actually feel pretty relaxed today. On Friday, I did my monthly deep cleaning and we put up our Christmas Tree, hence the awful rash all over my hands and arms from the annual allergy in our home, wouldn't be the same without it! This year's tree is much larger than those we've had in the past. The angel comes a quarter inch below the ceiling. I'm still not quite finished decorating, but nearly there.

On Friday evening, we went to JT and Silvana's to meet her friends and parents, which was really nice.

Saturday we decorated the outside of the house all day. It was so awesome to have a house to decorate. It was not anywhere near as annoying as most claim, but I can see how it may be after a few years. Ryan worked his butt off to hang lights from the gutters and windows. I did the bushes, the porch pillars and the window ledges. I actually got on a ladder! The place looks pretty good if I do say so myself. We're hoping to spark a healthy neighborhood competition. I'll post pictures of all the decorations and lights once I download them from my camera.

On Saturday evening we went to Ryan's work Christmas party which was fun as usual. There weren't as many people as past years, particularly from Ryan's team, but Connie and Jelani were there since Jelani works for Ryan's company now, so the conversation was interesting at least.

Yesterday we parted ways so that Ryan could hang out with Rob for the day in DC and I could go help create Connie and Jelani's baby-registry with Connie and Sandi. We both had a really relaxing day and we met later in the evening so we could have a bite to eat and watch the first half of the Steeler game (at Glory Days in Reston). Then we headed home to watch the rest of the game. The Steelers didn't look so hot, but they got the job done I suppose. At least the defense was blocking for Ben this week and he even made a pretty cool touchdown (ahhh...Big Ben!). Willie Parker needed a break (3-5 fumbles - I lost count, 2 right in a row). They better step up their game next week and hope for a healthy Polamalu if they don't want to be embarrassed by New England. I have faith though!

I can't wait until next weekend - Friday I'm off to go shopping with my grandma, Saturday is shopping with the girlie's at Tyson's, and the Steelers' big game is on Sunday! Ahhh...the holidays!

Pictures

Here are the links to our Thanksgiving Activities:

Pretentious Thanksgiving - Nov. 17 -
http://share.shutterfly.com/action/welcome?sid=8BZM2zlq3csVY

Gibbens/Anderson Thanksgiving -
http://share.shutterfly.com/action/welcome?sid=8BZM2zlq3csU-&emid=sharview&linkid=link4

Rices on Thanksgiving Weekend, Logan's 1st Birthday Party -
http://share.shutterfly.com/action/welcome?sid=8BZM2zlq3csUc

Call for Exceptional Websites

I'm designing a blog for our neighborhood, to go live in January. I've found some really cool sites to post on there, but I need more. Please send me links to sites that the typical American family may enjoy...things to do, vacations, home improvement, discounts/coupons, marriage, baby, shopping sites, etc. Give me your top three favorites, please!

Greatest Website Ever!

I don't know about you, but I have a hard time telling people what I would like to have for holidays or birthdays and I also have a hard time deciding what others would ultimately like to have. Today I found a tool that solves all those problems - http://www.wishlist.com/!

With wishlist.com, you can do the normal stuff like browse the website to save items, type in what you want, but you can also save virtually anything you find on the Internet into your wish list quickly and easily (I did find a few favorite stores that I couldn't save stuff onto my wish list), and the coolest feature is you can take a picture of anything with your camera phone and email it to your wish list. How awesome is that? I know - you probably all already know about this site - but I didn't and I'm hooked! I just want to "wish list" stuff because it is so fun! Now if only I can convince Ryan to use it....

Giving Thanks...

Thanksgiving is a time of reflection for me. I am genuinely so thankful for so many things, but I spend too much time complaining and wishing and not enough time giving thanks for all of the wonderful things in my life. Thanksgiving puts things back into perspective a little bit for me and it reminds me that I need to be more outwardly thankful everyday.

Just a few things I'm thankful for...

Family - I'm thankful for my husband, who loves me unconditionally, shows me every single day and makes me strive to be a better person; for my family who I appreciate so much, and have influenced my life more than they'll ever know; for the Gibbens and Anderson families who've opened their hearts to me and my family over the past 5 years...I couldn't ask for a more special family!

Friends - Old friends and new, I'm so thankful to have each and every one in my life; for Connie and Kate who are expecting...and expanding our friends.

Health - I'm thankful for the health of Ryan and I, as well as my family and friends.

Freedom and Knowledge - I'm thankful that I have the freedom and the knowledge to make decent choices and good sense to carry out my daily activities for the benefit of all.

Opportunity - I'm thankful for each and every opportunity that comes my way...in my career, my personal life and with each opportunity I get to spend time with family and friends.

I’m Thankful for You

Thanksgiving is the appointed time

for focusing on the good in our lives.
In each of our days, we can find small blessings,
but too often we overlook them,
choosing instead to spend our time

paying attention to problems.
We give our energy

to those who cause us trouble

instead of those who bring peace.
Starting now, let’s be on the lookout

for the bits of pleasure in each hour,
and appreciate the people who

bring love and light to everyone
who is blessed to know them.
You are one of those people.
On Thanksgiving, I’m thankful for you.

~Author Unknown

More Than A Day
As Thanksgiving Day rolls around,

It brings up some facts, quite profound.

We may think that we're poor, feel like bums,

insecure, but in truth, our riches astound.
We have friends and family we love;

We have guidance from heaven above.

We have so much more

Than they sell in a store,

We're wealthy, when push comes to shove.
So add up your blessings, I say;

Make Thanksgiving last more than a day.

Enjoy what you've got;

Realize it's a lot,

And you'll make all your cares go away.
~Author unknown

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

Recap of Pretentious Thanksgiving

I guess it's been a while since I've communicated with outside world via this blog, but things have been a bit hectic. However, on Saturday we finally took a break from the daily grind for the most anticipated event of the year - Pretentious Thanksgiving.

Our good friends Sandi and Shawn began Pretentious Thanksgiving the weekend before Thanksgiving in 2005 and it has become a tradition. Sandi enjoys cooking nice meals, so they decided to host a several-course meal (with high end ingredients) with wine pairings for each course, and invite friends to share in the event. It apparently sounded a little pretentious in the planning stages because the name stuck and so did the pretentiousness, as you may notice in the pictures.

Shawn and Sandi just bought a house on Oct. 29th and have been moving in and planning this event in that short period of time. I have to say, you'd never know they pulled it all together in a rush, because it was sensational. This was the first year we've been able to attend...and we had no idea what we were missing! I put it on our calendar last year (literally) so we wouldn't plan anything. So, please don't anticipate us ever doing anything the Saturday before Thanksgiving, because I'm not missing out on this event again...

It was seriously phenomenal, like you'd get at a five star restaurant and of course the company was terrific as usual! Every morsel of food was scrumptious, but my favorite was the pumpkin ginger bisque with the Gewurztraminer. Ryan even said it was the most perfect pairing he's ever had. The Sweet Potato Galette with Viognier was great too. This was the first Viognier I've ever enjoyed. I wonder if I liked it because it was paired so well?

Check out the menu:

Course 1 - Pumpkin and Ginger Bisque. Pairing: Gewurztraminer, Alsace
Course 2 - Sweet Potato Galette. Pairing: Viognier, Virginia
Course 3 - Farm Raised Turkey with Wild Mushroom Stuffing. Pairing: Pinot Noir, Oregon
Course 4 - Haricots Verts with Roquefort and Walnuts. Pairing: Cabernet Sauvignon, Washington
Course 5 - Cranberry Orange Brioche Pudding. Pairing: Sauternes, Bordeaux

I will post pictures as soon as I get them off my camera, which is packed for our Thanksgiving weekend trip.

Week 2

I just got home from my Weight Watchers meeting. I thought I did very well, even better than the first week. I drank more water each day than I usually do in a week, exercised every day except yesterday, walked for hours on Saturday, avoided the Halloween candy, and avoided most of the bad stuff this weekend while my family was here (I did have two small pieces of homemade pizza). I only lost .2 pounds. So I guess it's a new goal for next week to get back on track and try to be more conscious of portion sizes, as I really think that's my biggest issue.

Family Weekend

We had a great weekend hanging out with my family. The weather was perfect, so we walked along the Mall for over 5 hours yesterday. Everyone was exhausted last night. When we got back to our house, we ate pizzas for over two hours. Maddi and Tori and I made cookies and Dylan helped with the popcorn. Poor Gabbi was exhausted - she was asking for pizza and to go to bed by 5:00pm, we hadn't even left the city yet. We watched Goonies later in the evening because the kids had never seen it.

We loved having everyone here - and the kids were so great! I really miss having my family around to hang out with on the weekends. The past 24 hours reminded me a lot of what it was like living at home. It was nice! Thanks for traveling so far to share the weekend with us, everyone!

Here are some photos, many of which Maddi took throughout the day - and some that I took of the kids acting silly: share.shutterfly.com/action/welcome?sid=8BZM2zlq3csTA

It's So Exciting!

We are expecting visitors tomorrow...many of them have never visited us before, so it's exciting! My grandparents, my brother Evan (who've been here once or twice, but never to our new place) and my Uncle Todd and his kids - Tori, Maddi, Dylan and Gabbi are all coming tomorrow morning to visit for the night. We'll be packed to the gils, even rolling out the sleeping bags and air mattresses for the occasion.

Tomorrow afternoon, we're going to DC to see the monuments and museums, since the kids have never been there and Todd can't remember being there. After the tour, we're going to make our own personal pizzas. Then the "adults" can relax from the long day while the "kids" (ie. me, Ryan, Evan and the real kids) make cookies and popcorn, and allow the little ones to take over the basement, play some games and watch movies all night long! Sunday I'm making homemade waffles for breakfast - they're so yummy. We'll likely go to church together before they all head home.

I love entertaining (particularly kids, because they get so excited), and of course I love when our families visit! I'll post a synopsis and pictures on Sunday...

Week #2: Mid-diet-week Update

All is well this week with the new way of eating. It's getting easier every day. I'm not nearly as hungry as I was last week. I don't even need all the veggies I bring to work to keep me away from the junk food.

Before Halloween, I made Ryan put the candy away because it was too difficult to resist (except for the Candy Corn because I hate it). On Halloween, I ate a few small tootsie rolls and at first they were yummy. I didn't really feel guilty because I had a few points to use, but I quickly realized I didn't really want them. It was a great feeling - one I've never experienced before actually. We now have our left over Halloween candy sitting on the counter, and I'm not tempted to eat it.

I increased the water successfully, but I think I'm going to hurl after the third bottle by noon. Just this morning I figured out that the bottle I've been drinking from is twice as big as I thought, so I've really increased my water.

I still need to get more exercise...but I've spent the last three evenings digging out my winter clothes, packing up the summer stuff, and cleaning the house from top to bottom, so I'm sure I got some exercise since I never sat down. But I'll keep working on that! More after the weigh in on Monday!

Week 1

Today was the end of my first week of Weight Watchers. It was pretty difficult, but easier than I expected. I did well learning the plan, staying within my points (I even had a few of the weekly points left at the end of the week), choosing wisely when eating out, and cutting out unhealthy snacks (luckily I really like fruits and veggies). I was hungry fairly often, but not starving. My weaknesses were not enough daily activity (cramming it all into two sessions isn't ideal), happy hour last Friday (empty calories) and I can't for the life of me drink as much water as I'm supposed to. I weighed in tonight at 4.4 pounds lighter than last Tuesday. I was shooting for 5 pounds, but I'm happy with my progress. Next week I'm going to keep up with the things I did well and focus on portions, attempt to get more frequent and consistent activity, no happy hour, and increase my water intake. My goal is 4-5 more pounds. They say it is easiest in the first three weeks, so it should be attainable. I'll post another update on Monday Nov. 5th because I'll be out of town on Tuesday and Wednesday evening...so I'm hoping one less day in my "week" won't really show.

Weekend Update

It's been a fun weekend! On Friday night, we had some drinks with Sandi and Shawn and some of their friends in Old Town. We started the evening at Chadwicks with a light dinner and met everyone at Union Street Tavern. From there, the group was hungry so Ryan and I had a drink while everyone had dinner at Bugsy's. Our last stop was Murphy's where we listened to some Irish music for a while before heading home pretty early.

Yesterday, Ryan went to Rob's to watch some football and the Penn State game, and I joined some friends from work at Nightmare Manor in Leesburg. It was really fun, not nearly as scary as I expected. They had a few "haunted" buildings and a hay ride. Nothing too exciting happended, but Shira's feet were such a mess as she didn't expect to get messy and wore cute shoes. We stopped at TGI Friday's on the way home. Ryan and I got home within 2 minutes of each other and we watched SNL and fell asleep pretty early again, for a Saturday.

Today we were up early. After breakfast, we decided to go for a bike ride. We rode a total of 16 miles, to Ashburn and back. It is a gorgeous day, and it was relaxing until the end when I was exhausted. I did pretty well though, and Ryan always rides effortlessly. We're hanging out, watching the Steeler game and plan to do some chores later this afternoon. I love relaxing weekends!

Weight Watchers

Five years ago if you asked me if I'd ever be fat, I'd have said I would never let it happen, but I have let it happen. According to my research, I'm obese actually. So, tonight I attended my first Weight Watchers meeting. I'm finally sick of being overweight and have realized that I need to do something about it for my health, not just because of what I look like. I feel fine now, but how will I feel in five or ten years? I can't blame my thyroid issue completely, but I'm glad I know it is there because I know now that it won't be easy to lose weight. I need to take responsibility to change patterns before they really become habits. But, hard core exercise isn't my thing (I can't stick to it) and it doesn't work alone even when I do for a short period of time. I decided I need something that is a healthy response rather than the fad diets and quick fix pills that I've spent most of my life trying. I need to learn how to eat healthy and establish a reasonable exercise plan that I'll follow in order to achieve the overall health I really do want.

Today was really hard. I have to think about what I'm eating rather than just eating whatever I want. I looked up things before I ate them and I was shocked. I'm surprised I'm not heavier than I am. I did well though I think, a couple of points over my goal, but not terrible for my first day. I am pretty hungry right now, but that's probably a good thing and I'm counting on a cup of Green Tea to tide me over until morning. I am excited about this and I'm ready for a change. So why am I making this public? Because I need to be reminded and held accountable. I want people to ask how I'm doing with it, and I want to be embarrassed if I fall off the wagon. Maybe if I stop ignoring it and everyone else does too, it'll force me to start paying attention to what I'm doing. Nothing comes easy in this world...and I don't expect this to.

Happy Halloween!

On Saturday night, we had a Halloween Party. Ryan and Sandi did a phenomenal job designing a Murder Mystery to entertain our 30 or so guests. It was a lot of work for both of them to create the story line, character bios and a scavenger hunt to locate the murder weapon, but it sure was worth it. The story was pretty in depth. Two characters were 'murdered' at separate times and that left five as suspects. As it turned out, Sissy was the murderer. Her motive for 'shooting' Bunny Luce, Sissy discovered that Bunny Luce was a previously unknown heir to her uncle's fortune. Sissy's motive for 'poisoning' her uncle, Richie Bucks, was a need for his fortune to pay her gambling debts and fund her drug habit with the inheritance her uncle Richie willed to "his only living heir." The characters were Rob as Senator Richie Bucks, Justin as host and gun lover Marty Lesser, Shira as flirtatious new hill staffer Bunny Luce, Connie as secret love interest of the senator Foxy Harmony, Jelani as Foxy's jealous husband Sly Harmony, Sandi as spoiled, foofie niece of the senator Sissy Jones, and Shawn as Sissy's bumbling dufus of a husband Dudley Jones.

It was a long two hours of questions for the characters, but they were fantastic! The remainder of the guests were the detectives, and they really got into it. In fact, it got pretty heated when the solution and winners were revealed, as Ben and Gareth thought their teams should have won the game. Ryan and Sandi thought Andrew, Jessie and Erika had beaten them to the punch so they won the first bottle of ice wine. All was well in the end, no hard feelings, just some a good competitive spirits. Erika also won the contest for best costume, with the most votes for her outstanding Cruella Deville costume. It was great - no one debated she deserved that bottle of ice wine.

Thanks to everyone for contributing food, drinks, time and energy. We had a lot of fun and hope everyone else did too! We'll do it again sometime, perhaps a little less ambiguous and a little easier clues (except for Gareth, we'll spend the next year making his cryptogram, since he seemed to be a whiz at cracking that code).

Happy Halloween to all!

Check out the pictures here: shared pictures:
share.shutterfly.com/action/welcome?sid=8BZM2zlq3csSm

Pre-party Pix

Here are a few pix of the house before the Halloween Party/Murder Mystery on Saturday:

Annual Pumpkin Carving Party

This is the third year we have carved pumpkins with our friends (we actually missed it last year). Each year, we bring our own pumpkins and one of us hosts a night of food and games along with the carving of the pumpkins.

This year we went to Connie and Jelani's for the annual event. Sandi and Shawn and Jennifer and Chu also came for the fun. Connie made a yummy pumpkin punch, pumpkin bars, and had pitas, hummus, chips, salsa, and guacamole. The ladies had a chance to hang out a little while the guys finished watching some football. Then we all gathered in the dining room and carved our pumpkins, roasted pumpkin seeds, and played Taboo. Sandi and Shawn headed home, Jennifer and Chu headed to bed, and Ryan and I played a friendly game of Spades with Connie and Jenali before heading home.

It was a relaxing, fun night. I can't wait to do it again next year!

Ryan's Monster Pumpkin

Erin's Pirate Ship Pumpkin

Here are the pictures of the evening: http://share.shutterfly.com/action/welcome?sid=8BZM2zlq3csSE&notag=1

A sneak peak...

Ryan and I took the day off and headed to West Virginia to see if we could catch a glimpse of what is hopefully to come to Northern Virginia sometime soon...the changing of the leaves. It was a relaxing 12 hour day and we found a few patches of colorful trees - lots of brights reds this year.

We stopped at a pumpkin patch near Romney, WV. It was the highlight of the day for sure. We picked our own pumpkins off the vines. The first pumpkin I picked up looked beautiful on the top, but it was already taken - by a rat! I tried to pick up the pumpkin and the rat scurried around my foot. I was apparently stealing his dinner. I tried, but I couldn't scream...I must have reacted though because Ryan asked "what?!?" as it ran almost over his foot. We proceeded a little more carefully and found two perfect pumpkins. We left the place with 2 bails of hay, two large pumpkins (total of 34 lbs.), 20 gourds, nine pieces of Indian Corn and two cans of pop for $27. It was great! We couldn't even buy one pumpkin around here for that. The farmer and his wife were so nice - the wife took our picture as Ryan stuffed two bails of hay in the trunk of my Accord - guess they aren't too used to the city folk around there. It reminded me of how much I miss home (PA) and the the simple life there...and of course the friendly farmers who provide a days worth of fun for next to nothing, even though they've worked like dogs every day for the past year just to provide us with the experience.

I haven't quite had my fill of the foliage this year, so we plan to take a shorter trip once the leaves change around us. But it was so nice to drive around with no destination in mind, have time to just talk about everything and nothing, and stop to eat whenever we got hungry. I love days like today!!!

I love our neighborhood...

Over the past few months that we've lived here, I've learned just how great it is to be a part of a neighborhood where people actually care about one another and take time out of their busy lives to chat and even hang out. They are willing to let you borrow anything and just pop in whenever. I love this neighborhood...

Ryan and I were just sitting in the living room watching football at about 8:15pm and the doorbell rang. Ryan answered the door and this is what he found:

Greetings

The air is cool, the season is fall
Soon the Halloween Spirit will come to all
The ghosts are looking for things to do
In fact, a ghost has brought this to you
BOO is a shield from the witching hour
Just hang it up and watch its power
At your house is where it works
It wards off the creepy and scary who lurk
The treats that come with this note tonight
Are yours to enjoy with delight
Make two copies of this note for your friends
So they will have fuzzies that will not end
We'll all have a smile upon our face
No one will know who boo'd your place
Just one short day to work your spell
Quickly and quietly so know one can tell
Don't forget a nifty treat
Hide something cute or something sweet
Please join the fun, let's really hear it
Spread some fun and Halloween spirit

Directions:
1. Enjoy treats
2. Leave BOO on front door until Halloween
3. You have 24 hours to copy this poem twice and BOO two other people that don't already have a BOO sign

A plate full of cookies arrived with the poem - and I think I know by how good the cookies are, just who pulled this fun little trick. Guess I'll have to start baking and pass it on...

Check this out!

Gareth posted this site on his blog, and it is pretty cool so I had to steal it and post it here. It calculates how closely you relate to the 2008 Presidential candidates. I've never even heard of the guy I identify most with: Mike Gravel. But I guess I'll look him up!

http://www.vajoe.com/candidate_calculator.html

My #2 was Chris Dodd and #3 was a tie between Joe Biden and Hillary Clinton.

Ryan: #1 Mike Gravel, #2 Barak Obama and #3 Joe Biden.

How about you?

Trashy TV - My Favorite!

I don't like to get too involved in television. Ryan and I usually have one show that we watch together, and I find one other he's not so interested in. It seems, however, that every show we like gets cancelled. A few years ago it was the Apprentice (just too repetitive now), two years ago it was Joey and last season it was Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip. Our absolute favorite show is Rescue Me, but it is only on in the summer.

I'm now without a show to watch faithfully. I hesitate to search for one because it'll likely get cancelled when I decide it is a favorite. I'm not too set on reality TV, but there are not many choices available. I'm not imaginative enough to stomach sci-fi stuff and game shows are only fun for a week or two. Whatever happened to all the great sitcoms?

Last night I watched The Bachelor. I always enjoy it in the beginning and then I get bored with the girlie drama. But I do like this season's leading man, Brad Womack. He's 34, a successful entrepreneur from Austin, and determined to find a "soul mate," which is doubtful, but you never know (I do like DeAnna so I have someone to route for, until she turns into the back stabber on the show). He's a cutie and a half, and is as genuine as one who chooses to participate in a reality dating show could be on TV. I'm sure it'll get too ridiculous and trashy in a few weeks and I'll lose interest.

Here's my pathetic potential line up of shows I'll likely catch every now and again (all of them are on ABC):

The Nanny - Monday @ 9 - don't make fun, this is a great show!
The Bachelor - Monday @ 10
According to Jim - Wednesday @ 8
Big Shots - Thursday @ 10 - only new one I'm remotely interested in so far

So, I'm asking for your advice...any great shows that you know of? I want a favorite, one I can watch every week - you know, something to look forward to vegging out to. Be careful sharing, because it is likely if I start watching it, it won't last!

Mr. & Mrs. Nick Pollock

This weekend Ryan and I traveled to Mercer PA for my cousin Tanya's wedding. I'm sure you all know by now how close I am even to so many of my extended family members. But this particular cousin (and of course her twin sister, Terah) is very special to me (and to my brother, Evan). The four of us grew up together just like brothers and sisters (poor Evan, always out numbered). We went to the same Elementary school, played together and fought with each other pretty much every single day, nearly every vacation we went on, was with the whole Rice family (and for many years we were the only four kids), etc. Even though Tanya and I don't talk every day anymore, we still share absolutely everything as often as possible. She is one of my closest friends/relatives. It was one of those events that you knew would once day take place, a much anticipated one for sure. Tanya and Nick have been dating for over 7 years...and we couldn't be more excited to officially welcome Nick into our family. It was so nice to spend time with my family. I really miss them and cherish those times we spend together! It was also nice to meet the rest of Nick's awesome family and their friends were great too. It was a really fun wedding, and I'm glad we got to hang out with everyone both nights after all the official events had ended. Congratulations Tanya and Nick - you threw a fantastic party!!! May you have many happy years ahead and make lots of babies to take on vacation with the family :-)

Link to the pictures: http://share.shutterfly.com/action/welcome?sid=8BZM2zlq3csRq

Tanya and Nick on Friday Night

Uncle Terry and Aunt Robin

Terah, Tristan, TJ and Tanya

Tanya and I

The Ceremony

Cutting the Cake

Ahhh...Vacation!

Last week, Ryan and I ventured out on a much needed vacation to New England. We had a great time, despite some rain. We started our trip with a visit with our great friends, Tommy and Amy (near Philly) and attended Little Tommy's Baptism on Sunday.

On Sunday afternoon, we headed north to New Hampshire for a night. On Monday, we took the scenic route and stoppped at some shops on the way to Bar Harbor, ME. We had a few amazing meals, stayed at a wonderful B&B, rode on a lobster boat and climbed some mountains - can you believe I actually love that stuff? As long as I don't have to sleep in it, I'm up for the adventure (but no heights...)!

We also took a very dangerous trip to the top of Mt. Washington, NH - yes, of course I freaked out and closed my eyes all the way to the top...but I got used to it and was fine on the way down. We also stayed for two days in Burlington, VT. On Saturday, we headed back to SW PA and stayed in Altoona so we could then continue the drive to Kristy and Jason's wedding yesterday in Somerset. Nearly 1200 miles in all.

The only mishap was that I nearly knocked myself out while preparing for a bike ride. Ironically, I was trying to get the bike helmets out of the trunk and slammed the trunk after retrieving them, but forgot about the bike rack that was still attached. Ouch! The bump on my head swelled up like something from a Bugs Bunny cartoon, and I cried like a baby. At least Ryan took pity on me for that bike ride and I didn't have to ride so fast or so hard.

We did get lost trying to "Cycle the City" of Burlington (there was no way that path actually went near the city), but 15 miles later we found our way back and found the Ethan Allen Homestead along the way...an interesting man Mr. Allen was (and they had clean bathrooms).

Oh yeah, and I figured out that all these years that I've been conservative with spaghetti sauce because it gives me hives in my mouth (sometimes) was likely for nothing. We were eating at an Italian restaurant and there was a very pleasant smelling fresh herb on the plate...we smelled it then tasted it - Ryan loved it, so I bit right into it and it instantly ate a hole in the roof of my mouth and left a burning sensation on my tongue :-) Yep! I'm allergic to Oregano! At least I know I can likely eat lots of sauce from now on, as long as we leave out the poisonous ingredient.

Here are some pictures from our trip:

http://share.shutterfly.com/action/welcome?sid=8BZM2zlq3csQu&emid=sharshar&linkid=link5

I think I can...I think I can...

Tonight, for the first time on our routine bike ride, I didn't have to push my bike up any hills. Small and insignificant as it may seem, I'm very proud of that accomplishment. It took lots of work to get to this point. Next goal...getting out of lowest gear and doing that (ha-ha). I've only shed an ounce or two so far, but I've gained confidence that it is possible to do something positive to change my overall health. Now, can I ever rid my life of the sweets? hmm...baby steps!

Congratulations Kristy and Jason!

Killer Bike Ride

Ryan and I set out today for a bike ride at about 2:00pm, intending to ride a little further than before since we had most of the day to enjoy. We initially went toward Reston Town Center to the bike store to get a few supplies. From there, we set out for the W&OD Trail and rode toward Vienna, where we stopped to get my gears adjusted at the place we bought the bikes, because the gears weren't quite right. We then continued on and made it all the way the I-495 before we turned around and came back. It was a long day...we rode about 18-20 miles round trip. We decided to stopped at Safeway on the way home to get a yummy dinner of steaks, baked potatoes, and corn on the cob as a reward. I've noticed that I'm not as hungry after a strenuous ride, but it was so good! We're exhausted tonight and will pay tomorrow I'm sure...but it is even more fun than I ever expected to get out there and ride my tail off.

"Keck! I ate a bug," she said

We finally got bikes yesterday. We've been wanting them for years, and finally bought them just in time to take them to New England on vacation with us. Now the training begins...I'm sure you've all noticed I seem to have misplaced my in-shape over the past few years and I do want to get it back, so I'm trying and hoping the bike will help. Ryan is always in shape and on a bad day has ten times more energy than I ever do. This evening we set out for our first real bike ride and he almost killed me. Not really, it was very fun, but talk about pushing it...holy cow! No breaking them in, no leisurely rides. We set out on the local trails for over an hour, but it felt like eight! We ventured through neighborhoods, woods, bushes (literally), up hills and even steps, across a stream...all over south Reston. It was fun and I can't wait to go again, but my legs will barely hold me up now.

New Honda Accord

After all the car trouble we had recently, we decided to buy a Honda Accord. Apparently, the dealer either lost the paperwork or it was stolen. My debit card was fraudulently used the next day (not sure if they are connected)...but after all is said and done, I really like the car.

We lucked out and got a great deal. It has it all...and plenty of head and leg room. I wanted a more family-friendly car, and I got one. Here are some pix:

I never knew...

I never knew California was really so different from everything I'm used to. This is the first time I've ever been here and I've only had a few hours to explore. I'm in southern CA for work, and since I have nothing else to do and everyone I know is asleep following Eastern Standard Time, I thought I'd blog about my amazement at how different it is here as compared to anywhere on the east coast. I'll try to keep this short...

• On my way here, I learned that until you literally reach San Diego, everything is a desert
• There are so many more hills (some very big hills) than I expected...and no grass or other green stuff
• People generally don't care if they are annoying you
• People are more polite than I expected (I'm not sure why, but I expected something very different)
• Everything I've seen thus far is about as clean as an amusement park (no trash around, but I just have the feeling I need a shower after each stroll)
• Pigeons are not scared of people (while having lunch, one tried to munch on my toe - and they were in the shops I was visiting...no one really cared)
• They charge you $.50 most places to use a credit/debit card
• Things are generally slightly more expensive (guessing: about $2 more)
• Air conditioning is optional (I still haven't figured this one out)
• Restrooms are public, you know, on the streets, and not in many establishments (I haven't figured this one out either...but I've had to pee most of the day)
• Traffic is nothing compared to DC (at least not what I've seen)
• People do whatever they feel like doing, generally they don't obey street signs or laws
• Everyone pours their beer from a bottle into a glass
• Speaking of alcohol, they sell it all in Rite Aid (wine, beer, coolers and liquor)
• The ocean is the same temperature as my body
• There are floaty things in the water that I couldn't identify, but I'm quite sure they belong there...I just don't know what family they belong to
• People really surf (but only after 5pm) rather than using body boards (pretty cool to watch)
• I've yet to see a cop
• When they say "historic" they mean from the 50's...the 1950s
• Sunset over the ocean is better than sunrise

While I would really like to spend more time here exploring, I quickly realized I belong on the east coast...I wouldn't fit in here naturally. I love the history, traditions, and even the conservativeness of the east coast. I know I found more differences, so when I think of them again, I'll add them just for fun. I've taken quite a few pictures to post as well, but I didn't bring the cord - will do, hopefully by the weekend.

Ryan's 30th Birthday Bash

This weekend, I (with the help of many others) threw Ryan a surprise party for his 30th birthday. It was a great time, and a huge success. Throughout the day, many of our friends and family members shared in the Caribbean themed celebration of food, drinks and games. I'll post some pictures for all to see as soon as I finish cleaning up the mess. I just wanted to thank everyone again for all your help and support. Ryan was surprised, and glad so many people made the long trip (from every direction) to celebrate with us. We can't wait to see you all again soon...and we always have room for guests.

Bye-bye RSX!

I just sold my first ever, completely paid-for-on-my-own car! I don't even have another car right now. I know had to do it...but I am a little sad. We've put several thousand dollars into it over the past few months and not only is it stupid to continue to do that, but we can't afford it. Our savings is quickly dwindling. There comes a time when you can no longer justify spending the money on "emergencies."

So, just two weeks after spending another thousand dollars, I knew it was over when more problems arose the other night. Ryan took it to Midas today. They cleaned something out for free and reset the check engine light and made no promises that it would help...and I knew what I had to do. Ryan drove it to Carmax and we sold it on the spot. :-( Wish I could have driven it one last time. I did love that car!

Now I'm without a car until we find a new one, hopefully not too long though. I haven't been without my own car since I was 18.

Shutters!!!

For the past three months (since we moved in), we haven't had any window treatment on our front window because we were waiting to choose, order and receive the shutters that we eventually want to have throughout the house. We bought the do-it-yourself kind and saved half the cost. So, they came in late last week and Ryan put the finishing touches on them tonight. He worked so hard to get those darn things right. Check 'em out...now I can't wait to order more!

Missing In Action?

We've been MIA for a while, but we haven't left the blogging world. Summers usually end up very busy for Ryan and I, despite our efforts to lay low. We're still working on the house every single day and have had a few visitors over the past few weeks. It is unfortunately too much to catch up on, but we've enjoyed having friends and family spend time with us.

This past weekend we were busy looking for a new car (because mine is on its last leg...so much for Acura's being good cars, huh?), had a picnic by the water in Old Town Alexandria, went to dinner and had drinks with friends, went bargain hunting for cleaning supplies and groceries because my car is costing us a fortune, and worked on our household chores. Busy, busy, but it's always a joy.

This week Ryan is installing our shutters in the living room and speakers in the basement and putting up pictures throughout the house, while I work on the cleaning I've been neglecting and my cousin Tanya's wedding invitations that I should have completed by now. So, we're staying busy and will do a better job of updates.

Hope all is well with everyone! Send us an update when you can!