Rich and Stacie

A Heart's Day Project...

2012-02-08T19:15:00.001-08:00

This weekend...Rich and I have decided the best way to CELEBRATE our love and the hallmark holiday is to....

REMODEL OUR BATHROOM and COOK A FABULOUS DINNER TOGETHER!

2 LOVE BIRDS AND 1 GOAL!

For the bathroom:

New Toliet
New Mirror
New Exhaust Fan
New Paint

For Dinner:

Salad

Spinach Pomegranate Salad

Main Course

Steak and Lobster Tails

Creamy Spinach

Dessert

Crème Brulee

I'm sure a nice bottle of wine or champagne will accompany this amazing weekend! Love our time together!

LOVE is Round!

2012-01-25T18:59:00.000-08:00

The only love which has lasted
is the love which has
everything,
every disappointment, every failure,
which has accepted the fact that
in the end there is no desire
so deep
as the simple desire for
being with each other.
-Graham Greene

A week in the life of...

2012-01-16T18:44:00.000-08:00

well, it is here, the much anticipated BUSY SEASON!

Although Rich and I are no longer in "public accounting", we definitely see our business spike the first of the year and anticipate the push to be for a few more months!

We've decided to help us stay sane through this time and to try to remain us...

we are to follow some simple rules!

Don't stress over things that you can't change...you definitely can't please everyone!

Make sure that we still have our special "family time" in the morning before we head out for the day and also in the evening. Even if it is only 15 minutes...those minutes and seconds are very important.

Work hard, play hard! We are going to try to make sure we get out and explore on our weekends (hikes, dinners out, fun with friends & family)!

Pretty simple, yet sometimes, so easy to forget!

Try to remember the GOOD STUFF and what all this hard work is for!

*TIME OFF*TRAVEL*NEW ADVENTURES*NEW EXPERIENCES

Plain, simple, easy! Take each day as it comes, give it our best! Rinse and Repeat!

Last weekend, we were able to divide and conquer! Rich took Chukar for the last weekend of upland game and I hung out with the family and went to Rene's first basketball game. Plus, I was able to celebrate my Mom's birthday with Lori, Rene, Avea and my Dad! So fun! Sunday, was full of work and getting things ready for this crazy week (and SNOW)...but we did find a little time to enjoy ourselves and went to the UW v. WSU basketball game! I won't rub it in since we know how that one ended...which meant I was treated to a cheeseburger and cocktail! I'm pretty easy to please...plus, I had the best company in the world!

Onward and Upward!

A Sunday in the life in...

2012-01-08T19:50:00.000-08:00

we went to Church, had a little couple's therapy and even got a workout in (ALL IN ONE)!

Well, that's what Rich and I call it at least...when we get a beautiful Sunday, like we had today!

We headed out early to get a little fresh air, spend some time with one other, do a little cross-country hiking, talk, listen, enjoy one another, and even get Chukar on some birds!

One word...HAPPINESS!

It was everything we could have asked for and more!

A little shot of my boys...with the 2 Quail!
Yes, 2 QUAIL!
Way to go Chukar on the point, Rich on the shot and me on the flush!
Our proud pup after a hard days work!

Here is to a great start to January, Dick's continued recovery, and a little quiet time together, as a family! We may not be perfect, but we are pretty happy!

Out with the old...

2012-01-07T10:45:00.000-08:00

Life, where do I begin...it changes, it is not stagnant, it moves like the tide.

Sometimes it brings in things you want, sometimes it takes away things that you think you can't live without...but somehow, you wake up each day, take a deep breath and decide to keep moving forward.

We are excited for 2012, the new changes. A healthier lifestyle for Rich and I both physically and mentally. A great chance to learn new things about ourselves. A time to grow. A time to love.

A time to be THANKFUL that we are on this crazy ride together!

A reason to celebrate!

2011-12-18T08:31:00.000-08:00

Great news came from the hospital front yesterday where Dick responded to Denise, Shawn and the nurses. When Rich and I were there in the morning, there was no response to the questions, but as the day progressed, he not only open his eyes, but squeezed hands and nodded his head! Such a huge blessing and reason to celebrate! We hope that the good news and progress continues!

A celebratory sparkling cocktail!

Cheers!

Mama D with the ELF of Christmas spirit...it is in full force at the Meyer Casa!

Rich and I even were able to enjoy ourselves at a Christmas Dinner with Friends...

Keep the small miracles coming...

Cookie time...

2011-12-11T12:36:00.000-08:00

This morning we were able to have a little fun and make Gingerbread cookies with the kiddos...

Rene and Avea were BIG helpers bringing in wood with me to help build a fire.

Avea was loving on Lexi and loved to cuddle with her.

The first cookies were made and devoured faster than I could even get out of the kitchen to see them.

Working hard on the cookies...

The whole team at work..

Rene made a special cookie for Shawnee!
And also a SPECIAL cookie for Dick!

It's been a busy morning with all the elves and lots of laughs were had! Prayers for Dick!

An update on the week that was...

2011-12-10T12:03:00.000-08:00

The week...as many of you know, was a week that we would not like to repeat, relive or EVER have happen again. It started with a phone call on Tuesday from Rich's mom (Mama D) that Rich's Dad (Dick) was not doing well. All we knew was it was something with his lungs and they were going to take him to the hospital. Jump forward 2 hours and we find out that Dick had a heart attack on Monday (over 18 hours before). I'm not even sure how to explain the next 72 hours...but to give a breakdown of what happened and when...emotions are on high alert now as we still wait for surgery on Monday.

930 pm Tuesday - Dick gets to Kadlec Hospital and we find out he had a heart attack and gets admitted
4am Wednesday - Rich and I head to Kennewick
12:30 pm Wednesday - Dick goes in to have a Heart Cath to find out more about the heart attack and to find out more
4 pm Wednesday - we find out that Dick has serious blockages and find out options for what needs to happen
4:30 pm Wednesday - we are advised to find a case worker to help us make decisions
7 pm Wednesday - find out that the case worker has gone home for the day and we will not be able to find anything else out until Thursday
CONTINUING WAITING ALL NIGHT
10 pm Wednesday - Denise, Shawn, Rich and I (DSRS) arrive back at Meyer East and let the dogs eat, run and we all try to get some sleep

Here is BABY Lexi and Chukar eating from the same dish...so cute!

6 am Thursday - Back to the hospital to watch for the case worker and find out how to get Dick moved to Virgina Mason in Seattle
12 pm Thursday - Still waiting...but have a nurse come into the room to let us know the severity of the blockages and we decide that we must get Dick to VM ASAP
1 pm Thursday - Shawn decides to take action and we start to find out info about moving
330 pm Thursday - We get the call that the ambulance from VM is on the way for transport

We headed back to pack and Lexi wanted to make sure she wasn't forgotten....

We were able to bring Lexi and Four Low in to visit Dick before we transported to Seattle.

7 pm Thursday - We leave Kadlec and head to Seattle
11 pm Thursday - Arrive at Virgina Mason, get Dick settled
1 am Friday - We leave to head home and get some sleep
3 am Friday - Dick has a lung attack
9 am Friday - DSRS is back at VM - meet with nurses, doctors, etc. during the day and find out that if all things remain the same, Open Heart Surgery will be on Monday.

Of course, there are many more details, but this is the long and short of it. Please feel free to call any of us if you have questions...we will try to update as we know more, but we would appreciate your prayers in the mean time.

Friday night...play time with the dogs...here is Chukar trying to get Lexi but she is smart and hid where he can't go!Last playtime of the night....Chukar is a Gentle Giant while Lexi attacks!

Dick is in HIGH spirits and we know that things on Monday are going to go AWESOME! We appreciate the love and support through these trying times.

Hugs from all of us!

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas...

2011-12-04T09:44:00.000-08:00

at Lori, Avea and Rene's house. Last night, my parents, Rich and I went down to Lori's to help get some lights on the house and help the kiddos with the tree! So much fun!

A little shot of my Dad working on the garage lights....

while Rich, Avea, Rene, my Mom and Lori worked on the bushes...

a little blurry, but a TON of fun!

Mom and Rene helping untangle the lights and also Rene was a super star when it came to plugging in the lights to each new strand! I taught him Male vs. Female connections with the lights...pretty proud of myself there!

A little shot of the feast inside...hahah!

And back to work...the final product with Mom, Dad, Avea, Rene, Buster and Maggie...

and the switch up...Lori with Avea and Rene!

Wow...so unorganized...back to the front of the house where Rich and I helped out the kiddos with the big bush in front. It was their first year helping out and they were ROCKSTARS!

Of course, no time with the kiddos is complete without Avea posing with Rich...I swear, that girl might steal him from me one day!

What a fabulous start to the season...that was seeming a little Bah-humbug, but is turning out to be a FESTIVE fun time for all!

Happy December all...and be safe this holiday season!

December WINOS Christmas Party!

2011-12-03T10:25:00.000-08:00

Our little Wine Group decided that for December we would let the boys come...and boy did that make the night a whole bunch of fun! Thanks so much to Amy and Eric for opening your home to this crazy group...it was a blast!

A little shot of Rich and I before the festivities really got going...IT'S CHRISTMAS TIME!!!

The delicious spread from Alexa's Catering in Bothell.

What fun is a night out...without a little White Elephant fun!

Alex and his thigh buster...hahah!

Rich and his Jaeger! Oh no, it's going to be a VERY happy season around here!

A group shot...so much fun, so many great people!

And then, a little shot of the ladies...the Regulars as I like to call them!

Ladies...2011 was such a blast and I can't wait to have even more fun during 2012!

A VERY Hardy Thanksgiving...

2011-12-03T10:16:00.000-08:00

This year...Goof Ball #1 (Rich) and Goof Ball #2 (Stacie) decided to pack up and head south for Turkey day...not only to see Rich's Sister and Family, but to get away from what was to be "Apple Cup 2011" (i.e. Crapple Cup 2011). Turns out..it was a much more action packed Apple Cup than either of us could have expected...well, at least the 72 hours following the game were! A shout out to the Dawgs for their 3rd consecutive win against the Cougs...and a shout out to the Cougs for securing a future with the Pac-12 and hiring the PIRATE of the Palouse!

Our little journey south started on Turkey Day morning...with both of us sick as DOGS! I'm sure everyone on our flights are thankful that we were on there so they could get sick for their holiday too!

And we are off!!!

Touch Down in Fresno...via SLC (don't ask...they were free tickets)!

A little warning...the week with Becky, Jason, Ty, Gabie and Sammi was AWESOME...but there were not many pictures taken. Lots of laughing, lounging and just enjoying a little down time.

Ty helping Jason in the kitchen with the GI-NORM-OUS Turkey!

Look at that BEAST...the boys were all smiles when it came to carving up that!

Jason working away...while we all drool and wait for the delicious-ness that is THANKSGIVING dinner!

A little shot of the girls...Brittney, Reshmi, Sammi and Gabie...

Becky working away on the mashed potatoes...while I just take pictures, chat and drink wine! How lucky am I!

Thanksgiving Dinner was amazing...but then it was time for BLACK Friday! Our Black Friday got to be a little more exciting since Tyson had a playoff game and was the starting center! After the game, we found out that not only did his team get GAME of the WEEK, but Ty also got Offensive Player of the week! So great that Rich and I were able to be there to see it!

A little shot of us at the game! Go Cougars (Clovis Cougars, that is)!

Saturday...Gabie, Ty, Sammi, Rich and I headed to Old Town Clovis to have a little lunch and support Small Business Saturday and do a little shopping!

Of course, the week would not be complete without a picture of Gabie 2.0!

I can't believe how fast our week in Cali went...and what a blast it was. Of course, I was a little homesick that we missed out on the Boness Thanksgiving and Meyer Christmas Tree cutting that normally takes place that weekend...but this year, we spread our love around so that all the family was able to have a special turkey day! Special Shout out to M&D who made sure our little Mr. Waggles was taken care of, loved and even able to sleep in a bed while his parents were off traveling!

Can't believe it's December and almost time for CHRISTMAS!!!!

Celebrating the BRIDE of Mr. O'Hara

2011-11-20T09:26:00.001-08:00

The news came on Thursday that Adam had proposed to Heather while in ROME on 11-11-11....and she said si'!!!!

We decided that we need to get a little crafty and make t-shirt to celebrate the day!


TOTES! AMAZE!

The engagement story was UBER-romantic, but I would never be able to do it justice in a blog, so you'll just have to ask H & A to tell you the story!

The stunning Bride-to-Be with her new bling...and antique for the 1920's!
Absolutely GORGEOUS!

Of course, we had to capture the MOMENT of surprise with the t-shirt! HAHAH!

The ladies toasting to H & A!

Yes...not only a shirt...but a little Veuve and Vera Champagne Flutes...we know how to do it in style!

Fist pump before shots and heading out for the night! Yes, we are even classier now!

Shots! Shots! Shots! Of 99 Bananas, of course!

And then more at the bar!

Amanda with the Groom-to-Be! I think that his smile says it all...he gets to spend forever with H and that makes him a LUCKY man!

Get used to it Adam...you are stuck with us! 4-EVA!

Yes, she's got the BLING and we are excited (and maybe feeling good from the shots)!

THE BRIDE AND GROOM...Priceless!

Oops...Watch out Heather...I'm with your man!

And MORE shots...

The night is coming to an end and this is just the 1st of many celebrations to come!

Congrats Heather and Adam, we are so excited for you and your future!
XOXO, the Meyer Fam!

3RD Annual Meyer PUMPKIN Carving

2011-10-30T18:41:00.000-07:00

The crowd might have been a little small this year...the carvers fewer in the bunch...but we ended up with a few AWESOME pumpkins. Thanks for all the men picking up the carving tools this year and participating!

Way to Go, Bob, Cam, Eric and Rich!!!

Rich getting a head start on our "MMAC" Pumpkin while I worked on my "WOODCHUCK"!

A little festive decoration and mood candles!

The crew working away...Rebecca, Jen and Cam on the left side....Bob, Justin and Jenn on the right side! Observers and voters are just as important in pumpkin carving as the actual carvers!!

Richie and Eric catching up in the kitchen and getting the brats ready to grill!

Miss Mama Kelby with her "HALLOWEEN DRINK"...yes, Chocolate Milk!

A close up of Rebecca, Jen and Cam...get back to work people!!!

Jenn and Justin partaking in my kind of activity...WINE!

Bob...working away! No breaks for him!

The final Pumpkins...less Eric's!

A close up of the pumpkins...

Cam's!

Rich's

Bob's!

Well done Gentlemen.....for some reason no pictures of Amanda and her fabulous spiced rum cider...delicious! Fun Friday night for all!

2011-10-23T18:14:00.000-07:00

And so the WEEKEND WARRIORS set out for a weekend of Friends, Football and Fun!

Amanda, Erin, Heather and I ready to get our weekend started....

So we started here...

then moved to here...


and continued to here!!! It wasn't just drinking either...there was A LOT of FOOD that went along with the weekend!

Yes, a little souvenir that Adam had from his college years!

The man of the weekend....Mr. Chase!

And, some of the boys of the weekend...Rich and Adam!

I'm not sure where Rich and I can pick up one of these (little munchkins), but he was super fun to be around all weekend ;)

Did I mention games? Yes, more than just football, thank goodness, since our teams apparently didn't make it to the locations of the games!

Amanda made a life size, big people size, drinking battleship...TOTALLY AMAZING!

Heather and Rich getting ready to play....incoming! We sunk your battleship!

The night continued with more games...of the card variety AND many, many laughes!

There was even a little time for some PUPPY Love on the trip...Erin and Rich's dog Kea and our little lady killer Chukar!

And, some more games...this time with Chukar's collar! Oh Adam, what can I say!

Eagerly watching on while Adam is testing out the collar...I'm pretty sure that Heather was praying for Adam's life...or at least sanity!

We made it through Friday night...a little shaken up but ready for a FULL DAY of football...our view of Big Lake from the "cabin"!

Yeah, Chase's Daddy Rich arrives....and we introduce him to full Weekend Warrior Rules and give him a little recap of the prior evening's shenanigans...(you all got the PG version).

Game time and a TOUCHDOWN FOR THE HUSKIES...means 99 Bananas for the girls!

All the girls...excited for the HUSKIES!!!

And then, the Huskies folded (Amanda) and let the Cardinal (Adam) take control. I'm sure you can extrapolate the meaning of this photo!

Huskies were done and it was time for the Cougar game...not as ugly as the first game we watched, but not pretty either!

Moving on from football it was time to "Jacuzz" and play some beer pong...Rich making sure that Heather remains save for the weekend!

GAME TIME!

The ladies in the garage!

A trip to the London Bridge...or so they told me!

The Weekend Warriors are starting to fade...but the fight must go on!

Chase gets a second wind and we are off!!!!

Sunday morning was a little more relaxing....

for everyone!

Too bad our poor little Seahawks fell to the same fate as the Huskies and Cougars the night before...but that meant that the Browns fans (Adam and Rich) got one wine for the weekend!

All in all, the weekend was a success!

Thanks for the awesome weekend and I can't wait for our 2nd Annual Weekend Warriors trip next Fall!

2011-10-20T18:29:00.000-07:00

Happy 85th Birthday GRANDMA...

This afternoon, my mom, grandma, her friends and I celebrated her 85th Birthday at the Tuscan Tea House in West Seattle...I can only hope that on my 85th birthday, I have amazing friends and family to share it with too!

My Grandma and her Friends!

Faye, Mary, Grandma and Dorla!

3 Generations of Fun...

Our beautiful table, thanks Aunt Roxy for the beautiful flowers!!!

I would love to have a place for this...but think that a place to visit with a chandelier like this is just perfect!

Yummy Scone with my Uncle Bourbon Tea...yes, Bourbon flavored tea!!!

The Ladies who TEA during the Day!!!

A wonderful spread of treats!!!

Such an amazing afternoon. I love you Grandma!

Happy Birthday Chukar!

2011-10-18T06:49:00.001-07:00

Happy 2nd Birthday Chukar!

Rosalia or Bust!

2011-10-15T08:48:00.000-07:00

Mr. Chukar ready to go see some birds and Uncle Shawn!

Friday afternoon...my hubby and puppy (he will be 2 on Tuesday) headed over to Rosalia, WA for the deer opener...normally, I wouldn't be so excited for this...but for these reasons I'm pumped:

Chukar is now on a raw diet where Venison is his main food source, so if Rich gets a deer, life is good!
A weekend at home alone...AMAZING!
Time for Rich and Shawn to have some boy time!
A weekend of relaxation for me!
A chance for Chukar to see some birds and be exposed to many!
A weekend to lounge for me!
The boys getting to go to the Cougar game!
More time for me to just melt into my couch!

It's not all selfish reasons...I'm just glad that we have a weekend that we both get some time to clear our heads. With work being as crazy as it has lately (which is awesome), it's nice for both of us to have some down time, doing what recharges us!

Me, relaxing, Rich, out in the woods!

This picture just cracked me up yesterday...I can only imagine what Chukar is thinking, but I think it goes like this:

"DAD, ARE WE THERE YET? You said that we were going to go see the birds and I've been in this darn truck for 6 hours! ARE WE THERE YET?"

Finally arrived in Rosalia at about 4pm on Friday and Chukar was in his element...off running and having some fun!
The sunrise on Saturday morning...Rich and Shawn up-and-at-it and ready for a BIG GAME day! Big game for the Dawgs, Big game for the Cougs and hopefully a BIG GAME coming home with either Rich or Shawn this week! Good Luck boys!
For me, it's off to bake, lounge, carve pumpkins with the kidlets (Avea and Rene) and hang out with my parents...perfect Saturday alert!!!!

Fall is OFFICIALLY here!!!

2011-10-10T18:17:00.000-07:00

And I must say that I'm excited...Sweaters, Cozy blankets, books by the fire and more!!! After the wood cutting excursion from last weekend...Rich spent Sunday afternoon "building and stocking" our new wood pile...I think it looks pretty snazzy!
Of course, with lots of wood...comes the first fire of fall! Yippee...I'm also happy to report that there were no woodpeckers in there!

Bird Hunting and Bird Eating...

2011-10-09T07:51:00.000-07:00

Saturday was a day...FOR THE BIRDS!
It's officially BIRD season in the Meyer Casa...and this was in full swing yesterday...from bird hunting and scouting, bird dressing and eating, and maybe even me giving someone the bird that cut me off.

Rich and Chukar headed out mid-morning to go see what they could find outside of Darrington and went to White Chuck Mountain...a little view from there day!
Our little hunter had a great day...and even pointed a few birds! None that came home with them, but I believe they had an AWESOME day!
After being locked up for most the day working on deadline stuff for clients...I decided I deserved a little break too and went and had a mani/pedi. WOW, it had been too long. So fantastic!

Then, it was time to prepare for our GREEK DATE NIGHT FEAST....

Here is our BEAUTIFUL, Organic, Free-Range Chicken that we got from Allan last weekend when he was here! Check out his website for his Organic farm in E. Wa! http://www.palousepasturedpoultry.com/
(Also, his birds are available at Bill the Butcher)!The bird stuffed and dressed with all the fixings...garlic, lemon pepper, onion, oregano and thyme!
Rich got home after the bird was in the oven...and started on the next part of the meal...Roasted Greek Potatoes with Feta...wow, makes me hungry all over again!

Baking and basting...that is how we spent the next hour and a half!
Wah-laaa......the FINAL view of the bird!
Of course, before dinner, it was time for an evening cocktail...and we went back to the good ole standby!!!
The FINAL project...Craved Bird, Fresh Greek Salad, Pita and homemade Tzaziki and Roasted Potatoes!
It tasted even better than it looks...and that is saying something. Our only regret was that we didn't invite anyone over to share in this feast...next time we will! It was our first attempt at Greek Night and since it turned out so well (under the Coug game), we will definitely do it again!
All tuckered out from his long day with Dad!!!
Time to get ready for our next culinary experience...breakfast casserole and homemade sweet rolls...this time KELBY and RYAN are coming over...or should I say MAMA and PAPA Blosser! Of course, there is enough food for an army...so come cheer on the Hawks at 10am...if you want! No showers required...just bring some beverages (or maybe fruit)!

Happy Sunday All...Fall is officially in FULL swing!

How much wood...

2011-09-30T21:45:00.000-07:00

can a Dick Chuck chuck, if a Dick Chuck, could chuck wood? Well, today we found out!!! Rich headed out with Chukar at 4:15 AM (yes, AM...and I was the good wife that packed him a thermos of coffee at 3:30 AM) to the Naches area to get some firewood for the fall. I think this was more a "Manly use my chainsaw adventure"...than a real practical one...but if the boys had fun, then SO BE IT. I'm happy if they are happy...and I'm pretty sure they had a BLAST!

A little shot of the area where Rich decided to forage...YES, he had a permit, and NO, they don't take any living trees!
Holy smokes...that is A LOT of work for one person...and I'm pretty sure that he is feeling the pain right now!

Chukar had a great time too...Rich would let him range out and then have him come in about every 20-30 minutes...we definitely have ONE tired pup on our hands tonight...plus, a few battle wounds from his adventures too!

All loaded up and ready to come home....I guess a DICK CHUCK can chuck WOOD!!!
(For any one who doesn't know, Dick Chuck is for Richard Charles...and of course, my nickname for my babe)!Before heading back home...Rich let Chukar have a little more fun and let him swim in the Little Naches River...
So proud of my boys...but the work doesn't stop here...no he has to split and stack all the wood...any volunteers because I think I'm getting SICK...no, I mean my back hurts....oh heck, I just don't want too!

September came and went...and we even had some celebration of birthdays for the ONE AND ONLY Richie and also his Mama D! Happy Birthdays via the BLOG...even though the celebrations have been made! On to October, and decorating for Halloween, and fires, and books on the couch, and of course COLLEGE FOOTBALL!

Girls Weekend in Portland...

2011-09-19T19:02:00.000-07:00

While the wife is away.....the husband will be super productive....and have lots of fun! This past weekend, I headed down to P-land to visit a dear friend while Rich and Chukar stayed in....

I think that Rich would admit that he had a successful weekend that involved...

Fishing with Adam and Lippy and catching this awesome Pink!
Painting the downstairs....
and also taking Chukar out on Sunday to go check out the birds and meet him Mama for lunch...this is the delicious sandwich he had that made me SO JEALOUS...but, of course, I'm still stuffed from my adventures!
After work on Friday, Sarah and I met up with Kaylin and headed down to Portland to visit Kristin...we ended up getting into town pretty late and just hit up a local late night Happy Hour and headed back to the condo to catch up on girl time!

Saturday morning...we headed out to Pine Street Biscuit for the MOST AMAZING and GLUTENOUS Breakfast I have ever had....

Fried Chicken on a biscuit with cheese, bacon and gravy...and yes, my arteries are still screaming for MERCY!

After breakfast...we did some sight seeing, shopping, and more dining...

Kaylin, Kristin and I....spanking the bum of the statue!
Next up...it was ladies night out...Kristin and Kaylin...
and Sarah and I...
Round 1 before dinner....
Then it was time for dinner ....MOST DELICIOUS SUSHI EVER!

And, another round or two or three of cocktails!
DINNER!!!

Sunday morning...it was time to head home...but we got to meet up with Janna...another friend in Portland for breakfast before heading back!Such an amazing time...it's been a hectic September here...with work being busy...the dog being sick and life just getting crazy with football...this week doesn't seem to let up either...with birthdays for Rich and Denise, class starting for me, getting to meet Miss Emily and then of course, camping this weekend.

I'm bushed...time for dinner!

Grouse trip gone wild!

2011-09-12T19:07:00.000-07:00

It's not very often that a blog comes from Rich's point of view...but since he posted it on his hunting website, i decided it was a must post!!! Enjoy our Saturday morning adventure!

We headed to Kennewick yesterday, we decided to stop off and get some grouse hunting in for the first time this year. We decided to hit up a spot in LT Murry that I've ran into them previously.

We got to the trail and I noticed right away that spring run off had decimated the trail, basically we had to walk up a creek bed full of rocks and boulders. We get about a half mile up and I here THE sound, I jump five feet in the air and I yell SNAKE as my wife is trailing 5 yards behind. I froze to get my bearings, make sure the dog stays away and find exactly where the rattler is hiding. I make I contact with the serpent, walk around and decide to shread it as it was right in the middle of the "trail". My wife has the dog and I blast the snake with 2 rounds of 20 gauge 6 shot. I break open the gun and start to remove the spent shells and reload. As I do this, I turn around and my wife is sYing something about getting stung... From there it is a blur, she was getting attacked by yellow jackets. As soon as I realized what was going on, I started getting bit/stung, they were all over us.

I start screaming like a girl and begin running down trail to get away from the swarm. As I was "running", I threw my gun and hat off. I made it to a spot I thought I could get away, but I tripped, landed smack dab on a big rock with both knees taking the brunt of the force. Meanwhile, my wife has started to make her way down the trail towards me. I was still on the ground writhing in pain from the bites and the fall. She makes it down to me, she grabs my banged up gun and muddy hat and we decide to get the heck out of there after less than an hour of "hunting".

Not 10 minutes later, near the beginning of the trail, another snake...I scream and hold back the Fam. No rattle this time, I think it was a big bull snake. After that, we scurried down trail and back to the truck, never to return, ever.

I ended up getting bit/stung 8 times all over. My wife got bit/stung 6 times, not sure if the dog got any. My O/U got some pretty good scuffs in the wood and a couple scrapes o. The bluing, but it cleaned up and now has some extra character.

The moral of the story is, watch yourselves out there when hunting early down low...the snakes and bugs are out to get you!

Funny comments from others:

Sounds like a great way to introduce the wife to hunting.

Takes a big man to admit to that. Especially the part about just running off and leaving the wife as bait!

After the stings heal it will make a great story to look back on. Too bad you didn't have some video of it as well!

Pickles!!!

2011-08-30T20:56:00.000-07:00

A Meyer Tradition that has been passed down...but for Rich and I as a couple, it was out first time!!! Tonight, we PICKLED! Yes, you read that right. Denise brought fresh grown pickling cucumbers over from the Meyer garden and Rich and I decided to embark on the family tradition!!!

Rich diligently reading Chris' Famous Pickle Recipe...just as Brianna, I guess they are to die for (we should know within a few days)!!!
Chukar (conehead) helping me bring in the jars to sterilize!
Supplies are ready...look at those cucumbers!
A little break while the glass was sterilizing...time for dinner and Rich made a delicious homemade pasta...
with fresh tomatoes and fresh beans from the Meyer garden! Delicious!
The garlic, salt, dill, vinegar and water were in the jars...time to tighten the lids!
Next up...boil the filled jars!
Wah-laa! DONE....we will hopefully be enjoying our first batch this weekend (or being tremendously ill because we missed a step).
Looks like we have put another weeknight evening to great use...and might have found a new late summer/early fall hobby! Maybe this is what I do when the boys (Rich and Chukar) are out bird hunting!

The season opens on Thursday...but out little buddy is taking opening weekend off to heal!

BBQ and Boats...

2011-08-29T09:07:00.000-07:00

Another fun weekend in the books...both my sister was here from Iowa and Rich's Mom and brother Shawn...so what to do...Family BBQ time, obviously!

Prepping for the fun...(the beautiful flowers are from Aunt Roxy and Grandma)...so gorgeous!!!
Shawn helped clean up the deck...
while Rich and Denise worked on prepping things in the kitchen...
Then it was time for the fun...Jenn, Avea, Rene and me...
Insert Mama with her daughters...pretty happy to have the family back together again!
Next up, Aunt Roxy with her nieces!!!
A view from the other side...Grandma, Rich and Mama Denise!
Finally...a picture of my hubby and I!
Richie and his little brother Shawn!
Totally missed Dad...Bryan...Lori...oops....

Michael, Baby Emily (bump), and Alison (soon-to-be BIG sister)!
It was time for some of the troops to go...so Alison jumped on board and waved BYE-BYE with Chukar!
Sunday was a BOAT-load of fun...when Lori invited us to tour the cruise ship and have a delightful lunch!

Ready to board!
Our personal tour guide with Rene and Avea...
Lori and Mom with Avea and Rene (pre-swim) at the pool!
A foggy morning in Seattle....
My parents.....love you!
The whole gang on the ship!
We even got to go to the BRIDGE and meet the Captain...pretty awesome!
Last stop...Mom's clinic area with the kidlets!
Sunday night ended with a trip to our favorite Greek restaurant with my parents and sister...a fun weekend...now off to start this week!

Next up...Labor Day weekend!!!

Cone Head!

2011-08-15T18:35:00.001-07:00

As most everyone knows who reads this blog (or knows Rich and I), Chukar is our son...no ifs, ands, ors about it. We treat him probably better than we will our first born and have learned so much by having him. Of course, during his almost 2 years on this wonderful planet, this puppy has had more bad luck than most dogs 5 times his age. Is this paranoid parents or a dog that is prone to things happening? I guess your guess is as good as mine, but thank goodness for pet insurance.

A few weeks ago his pesky "infection" in his man parts came back and we headed back to the vet today...we have decided to start with the least invasion (but most embarrassing) and so our little King has THE CONE OF SHAME...this will just be for about a week to see if anything gets better. Of course, our little man has already ran into a few walls, had a run in with the kennel and dumped some water. I'm sure the struggles of the next week will be felt by all...I can't imagine what it will be like in bed tonight...he already was a bed hog and now he has a HUGE cone! Oh well, anything to help him get better!

Poor Chukar!

Anniversary Celebrations!

2011-08-15T18:34:00.001-07:00

YUM, YUM, YUM...yep, that about sums up the celebration for my parent's 36th wedding anniversary and our 2nd wedding anniversary at The Barking Frog!

We indulged....in everything, food, wine, laughs and an overall GREAT TIME!

We started off with:

Grilled House Made Foccacia & Prosciutto di Parma
Then had:
Grand Marnier Prawns
Next up was Salads....Dad stuck with a traditional Caesar, Mom had Mixed Greens & Herb Salad, and Rich and I had a Tomato, Watermelon and Mozzarella Salad....all were spectacular!

Next up...a little photo op for Rich and I...
For the Main Course...(just to make your mouth water)
Rich had:
Grilled Snake River Farms Pork Chop
Smoked Sausage Stuffing, Controne Beans, Fava Beans, Artichokes Hearts, Basil Butter
Dad had:
Eight Ounce Northwest Beef Tenderloin
Oregon Blue Cheese Gnudi, White Asparagus, Sweet Onion Ring, Veal Demi Glace
and Mom and I each had:
Sea Scallops & Sous Vide Pork Belly
Grilled Corn Risotto, Smoked Shimeji Mushrooms, Caramelized Leeks, Jalapeno ~ Corn Broth
Dinner was followed by dessert...but there was not time for pictures then....we were too stuffed and I barely remember the end of the night!!!

A group shot at the end of the night!!!

Thanks M&D for an awesome night out celebrating!

Kelby's Birthday Boating!

2011-08-15T18:33:00.000-07:00

For Kelby's 30th Birthday...Ryan planned a little surprise boating excursion for Kelby....it was a blast....boating, birthday celebrating, beer, taco del mar and fun!!! Oh, and did I say CAKE!!!

Rich and I enjoying our time on the boat....
The birthday girl and her FOUR-LOCO....you know, she crazy like that?!?!
A view on the water of Seattle...so pretty!
Captain Ryan!
The Birthday girl and her Prince Charming!
Happy Birthday to YOU....Happy Birthday to YOU!
Make a wish (let me guess...it involves babies and happier ever afters)!!!! Done!!!
We celebrated...we boated!
A little group shot at the end of the night....for those of you paying attention...
Kelby, Ryan, Matt, Loni, Me, Rich, Tim, Alicia and Michael!
We salute you Kelby...to a fabulous 30th birthday!
Xo and MPBS forever!

Dick's Garden

2011-08-10T18:25:00.000-07:00

It's the boys....being all silly and stuff! Only Rich and Shawn...and I really think that they might have bought them if it wasn't for my laughing!

We headed over to Kennewick on Saturday to go visit my Uncle Lorre at the hospital and wish him well...he has a long road to recovery, but I know that he will stay strong!

On the upside, we got to visit with Rich's parents...and my parents and Grandma were even able to come visit with Dick and Denise for a bit! Plus, we were able to see Dick's Garden (courtesy of all the hard work of Denise and Shawn) in FULL bloom!

Here is a little video of the garden...to give you some insight into what is there!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xwfAQEnU4-U

Jalapenos and Beans....

Close up of Hot Banana Wax Peppers!
Fun plants in the garden....
Overview....rows of peppers and tomatoes!
Tomatoes...
More peppers...
Brussel Sprouts...
Artichokes...
Nectarines...

Onions....
A dead puppy....
...and even more!
Such an awesome garden...can't wait for more treats from it. The tomatoes, cucumbers, pickling cucumbers and more!!!

32 Years Young...

2011-07-31T18:35:00.000-07:00

I'm one lucky lady....Friday was my 32nd Birthday and I got to spend it with all the people I love and that love me....amazing, relaxing, fun, wonderful and LAID-back...just my style!

After a little work on Friday morning...my Mom and I headed to Purple Wine Bar in Bellevue for a delicious lunch before our time at the spa....Post-bliss at Gene Juarez where we had the ROYAL treatment...scrubbed, massaged, facials, and more...it was just fabulous (I think that I'm still glowing from this)!
From this...I got to come home and celebrate with my parents, Rich and Mama D! Here is part of my awesome present from Mama D and Dick...hahah, no more digging holes for me while I camp...I get to go in style!
A little time in the backyard to enjoy the beautiful sun...while Rich prepared an awesome dinner!
My parents and Mama D...all here to celebrate with Rich and I!

Rich hard at work preparing the pizzas....did I say that he even started my birthday off with breakfast in bed...gosh, I'm so spoiled!
Yes, round 1....YUM YUM YUM!!!
A little bit of cake for the birthday girl....WOW!
Saturday morning we met up with my parents and Avea & Rene for some fun at the dog park....followed by an afternoon of relaxation and enjoying the sunshine!!!

After that we headed to OVSC for a pool party with the gang!!!

Avea. Nate, Lori, Me, Aunt Roxy, Dad, Grandma, Rich, Mama D, Rene and Lindsey...my mama behind the camera....we swam, we ate, we enjoyed the time with the fam!
Cake time...Mama D, Mama J and Me!!!
Happy Birthday to Me (again)!!!
My Grandma G and I...
Hanging with Pops....lovin' the loungin!!!
Sunday was another day of relaxation (brought on by the rain)...but we went to a movie, hung out, shopped and are now off to dinner with the extended fam from Minnesota...Benny and Casey just got here last night!

So loved...so much fun! Another great year in the books!

The Dog Days of Summer....

2011-07-28T09:23:00.000-07:00

Last night Chukar was joined by his girlfriend Piper and a new girlfriend Lola....and boy did he have fun. He was so exhausted last night that he couldn't even jump up on the couch...there were many triple kisses and romps around the yard...all in all a very fun day for the dogs....
Plus, as much fun as the pups had...so did their parents. Rebecca, Bob, Jen and Cam joined Rich and I last night for a potluck of food and wine.

Not sure why I hadn't thought of this earlier
...but it was great to share in the preparation of the meal!
We dined in style...Jen and Cam started us off right with some delicious cheese, tapenade and crackers...followed up by the main course from Rich and I which was some yummy steak, a delicious arugula salad and twice-baked potatoes from Rebecca and Bob...and of course, the night ended with yummy brownies and ice cream from Jen and Cam...wow, I'm stuffed just thinking about it.

Of course, we didn't go without wine
...everyone brought one of their favorites and we were complete!

Such a fun night...and a great community meal!
Can't wait for the next time gang!

CAMPING...it's like digging a hole!

2011-07-24T21:15:00.000-07:00

The Annual Meyer Family Camping Trip officially happened this weekend...last one was in 2007 (so maybe I shouldn't call it the "annual" trip...but then again, we are instituting annual effective 2011)!!! Rain or shine, busy or slow...we will be camping!

This year's adventure was at Bumping Lake...and we had a fabulous time! Rich, Chukar and I got up there early Friday evening and started to scout for an area to camp while we waited Denise, Shawn, Dan and Brodi to arrive!

Rich and I got our tent set up and headed back into "cell phone" range to let the other troops know where we ended up!
Rich found some great wood...and it was time to get the fire started!
If he ever says that he doesn't feed Chukar people food...here is the prove! A fresh white peach right off the knife....GOTCHA Richie!
Yeah...the ladies arrived and it was time to relax and unwind by the camp fire....Me with Brodi and Mama D!
Chukar LOVES camping...and pretty much digs that he can chew anything he wants and not get in trouble!
Saturday morning...it was time to play, and Chukar was pouting until he got to swim!
Breakfast time...delicious Breakfast burritos!
Rich and his mama...hanging out in the AM!
Time to hit bumping lake...the crew was loaded up!
Rich, Shawn, Mama D, Dan and Brodi...and of course, Chukar was all kenneled up and ready to play!
The men of the camping trip...hanging out by the lake!
Chukar hunting a chipmunk, not sure if it was Alvin, Simon or Therodore....but the chipmunk got away! (no need to worry about that PETA)
The Camping Meyer Family...Shawn, Me, Richie and Mama D! Such a great weekend! Next year we will see if we can recruit a few more (and maybe some Boness Campers???? I've heard crazier things)!
Denise and I in this awesome archway....such a perfect scene!
The only fish of the trip...a Rainbow Trout that Shawnee caught in my "honey hole"! Don't worry, I didn't dig that one!
The brothers....with a darn big TREE!
We headed back to camp and our AWESOME neighbor Tom...helped up cut up some wood for our fire on Saturday night...he had great stories and some unbelievable life experiences!
Saturday afternoon/evening it was time to feast on French Dips, Chili, Salads and more....the gang prepping for the evening!
And one tired little puppy exhausted from his day at the lake....
Richie and his mama...just kickin' back!
Time to eat...YUMMY Shawn! French Dips...yes, we dine in style while camping!
Even Chukar got some roast beef and au jus for dinner....so happy (but look at those tired eyes)!
A beautiful nighttime view of the lake....
Shawn, Rich and Chukar...just enjoying the moment and some brotherly love!
Ut oh...the DLB's came out....if you don't know what that means...then you probably shouldn't!
DLB 1 + DLB 2 + Bud Light Lime = TROUBLE
Chukar and his Gramma D....ready to go to bed...
and it's over! Look at that big ole nose.
Sunday morning...Chukar and I relaxing....
Richie and his mama eating some delicious breakfast scramble that Dan and Brodi made!
And it was back to the lake....if you click on this...you will see that I'm on the island across the lake (a little triathlon training, I guess).
Goodbye bumping lake...wish you would have made it Chris and Brianna!
WE HAD A BLAST!!!!
We ate! We drank! We snacked! We dug holes! We met the "Wallace" family! Made friends with a snake! Found some beautiful pink roses! And well, if you want to know more...then you should come in 2012! We are taking names now!!!!

Some videos for your enjoyment....Chukar swimming and then Chukar and his new Camping BFF!

Mile Marker #2

2011-07-18T18:52:00.000-07:00

It's official...Rich and I reached Mile Marker #2 of our marriage today....July 18th, 2011!

To celebrate our 2nd Anniversary and reaching mile marker #2 on the journey called MARRIAGE...Rich and I headed over to Lake Chelan to celebrate (the odd years he plans, the even years I plan, great idea, we know)!!!

Friday night we got over to Chelan early evening and enjoyed some wine and beer at The Vogue in Downtown Chelan (little did we know...we hit it another 3 times over our extended weekend)!

After a night on the town....Tin Lilly and some great cocktails...we headed back home and "cozy'd" up to one another for the night...

Saturday morning..we hit the best breakfast joint on the Eastside...and went to Blueberry Hill Farms...so amazing!

I had the Blueberry Blintz and Rich had the Karma-cha (or some type of delicious scramble with corn strips)...so delicious!!!
After breakfast...we did a little fishing at Roses Lake and I caught my FIRST EVER Large Mouth Bass....then the wine tasting began!

Stop 1 - Tildio!

Stop 2 - Four Lakes
Stop 3 - The Firehouse
Stop 4 - CSR Winery
After the day of tasting...it was time for a little bite and we hit the Market Deli...for the BEST Roast wrap and sandwiches...yummy!
After lunch...it was time for me to relax and Rich and Chukar hit the woods for a bit....isn't he adorable!!!
Saturday night...I surprised Rich with a fabulous dinner...and of course a stop at MILE MARKER #2! You could never imagine how tricky these pictures are!!!

Dinner was at Sorrento's at the Tsillian (Chelan) Winery....and it was wonderful!
Look at the amazing view from our table...just perfect!
We started off with a little Caprese salad and stuffed mushrooms....yummy!
Then it was time for the main course...I had the steak special and Rich had another delicious steak entree'! The food was great...but the company was better!
Sunset on Lake Chelan....
A little shot of us (post-dinner and full bellies) at Sorrento's!
Sunday morning it was all about Chukar and heading to the highest point in Chelan for him to run...we actually were able to see 360 degrees from our vantage point...and Chukar was able to run like he loves!
A little view of the Columbia River...from the top!
...and the other side....Lake Chelan!
We had a tired puppy on our hands...but also a VERY happy little man!
This pictures says it all...happy, exhausted and having a blast!
Chukar and the flower....hahah! Guess you had to be there!
More beautiful flowers along the way....
and a nasty little snack! In this adventure alone, we saw a lizard, a rattle snake and the bull snake below!
Next up was the fishing hole...and Chukar's time to swim...he went NON-STOP for at least 30 minutes!
After the morning of fun, we hit up a few more wineries on Sunday....

Stop 1 - Karma
By far, the BEST wine of the weekend!
Stop 2 - Benson Vineyards!
By far, the best stop, view and experience of the weekend!
We just relaxed and enjoyed the moment...so great!
After tasting a few wines...Rich headed to catch some Blue Gills and I relaxed with Chukar!
Sunday night was PIZZA and Beer night at The Local Myth...and the we went to the Local!
Our little home away from home for the weekend....
Thanks Chelan...Mile Marker 2 was epic!
Such a great weekend to celebrate the past 2 years together...can't wait to see what the next year holds for us! Year #2 brought about many changes to our lives...and we know that the next year will hold as many (if not more)....

Cheers to the adventure that we are on together and the continued JOURNEY!

From BSB to BBG...

2011-07-10T18:31:00.000-07:00

Another Fun and Fabulous weekend is officially in the books.....from NKOTBSB to Biking Burke Gilman...it was a packed weekend for all!

On Friday night, I went out with the ladies for Erin's 30th birthday, while Rich went out with Jen and Alex to Casablanca at the Seattle Symphony!

We started the night off with some champagne and appetizers at Stephanie's (Erin's sister) house...a little pre-party to get the girls ready for the limo!

Amanda, MacKenzie, Erin, Me and Heather...ready to go see the "boys" perform...

We arrived in style and even had some time to have a glass of wine before the concert started...here is the whole PARTY crew!
Stacey, Amanda, Kristin, Erin, Stephanie, Heather, Me and MacKenzie!
The concert was great and we had so much fun....Saturday, Rich and I went to one of MMAC's client's 5th Anniversary party...we met a bunch of great people and had tons of fun! We even had a surprise when Rich's friend Alan rang on Saturday morning and was in town for the weekend work the Bellevue and Cap Hill Farmers Markets...it was so great to see him!

Sunday morning we hit the kitchen bright and early to start the painting....and has some fun! Teamwork, it's amazing what we can accomplish...of course, only one set of tears from me...but I just didn't have a steady enough handle to cut in from the ceiling....

Rich and Chukar ready to get to work....
After the touch ups with primer...and cutting in to the baseboards...
Rich working on the ceiling...it's like a whole new kitchen with the white ceiling! Such a dramatic improvement!
WAH-LAA....it's done! White ceiling and almost Tiffany Blue walls....I LOVE IT...for Rich, the verdict is still out!
We ended the afternoon with me taking a ride to Marymoor and meeting Rich and Chukar to play at the dog park...and then dinner with my parents on the deck. Our first weekend home in months and it was amazing how productive we were....

We are down to 8 days until our 2nd anniversary...and I have a great surprise in store for Rich...can you keep a secret?

The past 2 weeks flew by....

2011-07-05T16:43:00.000-07:00

Not even sure where to begin...from our yard finally starting to blossom, to the sun starting to shine, to multiple weekend adventures out of town and multiple weeknight adventures with friends, new restaurants, dog park trips and more...it seems like the past 2 weeks have been a blur...I guess that is what I LOVE SO MUCH ABOUT Summer! Plus, I don't see it slowing down anytime in the new future...however, the indulgences with food much subside as I start training for the Danskin Tri tomorrow....

Two weekends ago we headed to Packwood with Jen & Alex, Monica & Andy and the dogs in tow (Sadie and Chukar, that is). We ate, we drank, we were merry!

A little slice of heaven from Saturday's group dinner...yummy!

The boys...well, being boys before we headed into town to the Blue Spruce and Peter's Inn...Packwood's finest!
Pop! There goes our climbing roses...we left for the weekend and when we came home, they were AMAZING!
A fun weeknight trip to Marymoor...I don't think Chukar is having fun at all!
The 1st of July hit...and Heather, Amanda and I hit the Cozy Inn Tavern for some libations....and girl time of course! Not only did this bar have mini champagne, the bartender (Peter) hooked us up with a round...thanks Peter!
Next stop...dinner at Gallo de Oro...the best little Mexican joint in Bothell....and these delicious (gag) Margaritas...
The group shot....funny thing is I can't get this picture right side up...which pretty much explains the night!
Richie even came by to share in the fun....
Saturday morning we got up early and headed over to Kennewick for Matt and Liz's wedding reception and to hang out with the Meyer East clan...so much fun! We have been so lucky to be able to get over there so much this year!

Sunday morning before we headed out to the annual 4th of July trip to Wapato...Denise made Richie and I biscuits and gravy....yummy! Chukar, of course, supervising the action!
It was in the 90's in Kennewick and Chukar needed to cool off...so out came the wading pool...fun times for all!
Sunday to Tuesday we spent at the Redmond Ranch (Alex's Aunt and Uncle) in Wapato and enjoyed friends, fun, the fourth and of course FREEDOM!

Rich, Chukar and I on the 4th!
We got home mid-day on Tuesday and have been busy getting our house and lives in order for the next round of fun...Chukar even had a neighbor friend over for some R&R! He is in love with Kayla!
Wow, I'm exhausted living through all that again...I even missed the recall of our trip to Re:public with Kaylin and Pat, Taco night with Kristin and Mike, the completion of my 1st full month working with my husband and more....I guess, I'll just have to chat with you all to discuss!

MWAH...it's SUMMER PEOPLE...time to get out the BBQ and enjoy this weekend! Tonight, we get to enjoy a little quiet night with my parents! Looking forward to the calm before the next storm!

Graduation and Weekend in Kennewick!

2011-06-19T20:08:00.000-07:00

Congrats to LITTLE SHAWNEE...who finished up at CBC this spring! Rich and I headed over to celebrate his graduation and have a fun weekend with the Meyer Clan!

We dined at Casa Mia (one of my favorites in Kennewick), hung out with the whole crew, laughed our butts off and just had an overall great time!!!

Here is Denise, Shawn and Rich at the after the Graduation ceremony!
Saturday morning we woke up to a drizzly day...so we went to breakfast and then Denise and I headed to see Bridemaids (go SEE it...hilarious) while Rich and Shawn went fishing....

Of course, Denise and I ended up doing a little shopping to...we found these shirts and they were absolutely perfect for Dick and I! Yes, we are Keg Security, Miller Lite!

Saturday afternoon, we hung out, munched, chatted, laughed more and then went to a delicious Greek dinner!

Here is Shawn and Rich in the backyard...showing off the great landscaping and our tent for the weekend...house camping is the way to go! (Showers, restrooms and a kitchen)!
I just love the finished hillside...and had to take a picture of it!
Rich and Shawn also enjoyed some fun time with Chukar...
Who says that White Dogs can't jump?!?!
The family shot....it was going to be just Rich and I, but of course, the camera hog Chukar decided to pop on in and then didn't even look....
Of course, there was some work to be done in the garden, so while Denise worked, Shawn watered and Rich "supervised"!
Yes, Rich is a good Project Manager....hahah!
The weekend definitely did not end where the pictures did...but some things are just not suitable for everyone...I mean, come on...we share almost everything already!

Sunday, we had a lazy morning, enjoyed the sunshine and coffee, headed to the new O'Henry's and dined on the patio and hit up the dog park (and Dairy Queen) before saying our sad goodbyes and heading back home!

It was a fun filled weekend that we got to spend with Rich's family with no other interruptions...it is not often that we get to spend all our time with them, but it is so fun we we do.

A very special Happy Father's Day to Dick and Mike!!!

Sorry to my Dad that we didn't get to catch up with you this weekend
...but we will make it up!

SO lucky to have such great Dads!!!! Someday, I'll be able to add Rich to that list too!

Furry Sunday?

2011-06-15T19:47:00.000-07:00

Sunday morning we got up early and headed to Seattle to participate for the 2nd time in the Furry 5K (which benefits the Seattle Animal Shelter). This year we had a few more members on our team and a lot more sunshine.

Part of our team consisted of Rene' and Avea...and here they are along the beautiful walk with Rich and Chukar!

After the walk, Chukar got to enjoy a little DOG BATCH...and Buster wasn't quite sure if he was going to join or not!
After the walk, Roy and Kaylin are hanging out...plus we had my parents, Kaylin's 2 sisters and Sarah join the team! It was great!
After the walk was done...Maggie Mae, Buster Brown and Chukar posed for a victory shot...well, actually they just wanted snacks!

After the walk...we met up with Kelby and went on a hike...and YES, that is SNOW!
Kelby and I...posing in our AWESOME hiking gear! I'm pretty sure if anyone would have seen us, they would have thought that we were together. hahah!
After our hike...we decided to FEAST on delicious Ribeyes! Grilled to perfection!
It was a great day...but a little too much for my allergies...as I spent Monday in bed swollen, congested and down right miserable! I will make sure to take something before I spend that much time outside when the weeds and pollen are at 100%!

TODAY (Wednesday), a very special boy in our lives was presented with the PRINCIPAL'S Award for being the Best kindergarten!

So proud of you Rene'!

Seems like we are on the run for the next few weeks...as usual!
This week we are headed to visit Rich's family and celebrate Shawnee's graduation...then back on Saturday to celebrate Ryan's 30th and Sunday with Grandma and the church's 50th Anniversary!
Next week we have dinner every night with friends...then off to Packwood for the weekend...followed by a 4th of July weekend extravaganza! Better get some sleep now...the fun of summer is just starting to unravel!

Saturday Date Night...2nd Round!

2011-06-12T07:48:00.000-07:00

Looks like June has turned into Saturday Date Nights...last week it was at Bryan and Michaela's...this week it was at our house with Eric and Amy! The Curtiss family headed over to our house for Rich's famous Carne Asada....yummy! William, their almost 3 year old son, feel in love with Chukar instantly and it is still up for debate with who has more energy!

William and Chukar with their sticks...they both found some random ones in the yard and decided they were better than any toy out there!
William being such a big boy and petting Chukar!
Just hanging out and watching...there were a lot of action shots but both William and Chukar were a blur...so
Getting ready for dinner...homemade Guacomole, Corn and Bean Salad, Tacos and of course, lots of CORONA!
The boys...Rich and Eric with their "sons"!
Next up was Amy and I...and Chukar snuck in for the photo-op! Such a poser!
After dinner...it was more play time! Seeing Rich interact with William made me so excited for kids someday...he is just a rockstar with little ones! Definitely has awesome DAD instinct!
Finally, a little time to calm down...William had so much fun with Chukar...he played and laughed and just had a blast!
Almost bed time...or at least relaxation time!
Not suitable for CPS....but William wanted to play in Chukar's bed!
He loved it in there...
and had even more fun when Chukar was in there with him!
Such a great night with awesome friends! We always have such great laughs and fun when we are with the Curtiss family...and can never get enough of them!

Until next time...today, it's off to the Furry 5K with M & D, Rene & Avea, Kaylin & Roy and maybe some more...then a hike with Kelby, Rich and I. Busy Sunday...off to enjoy this sunshine!

Friday, FUN DAY!

2011-06-11T13:44:00.000-07:00

It's not all work and no play at this house...Friday, we worked a ton in the morning for MMAC...then spend the afternoon at the pool with the Godchildren (Avea and Rene) and then headed to dinner with my parents and the kidlets!

Avea is growing up so much...she was swimming like a fish and swimming the entire width without stopping...as a reward I would give her a ride back...

Here she is enjoyed the lounging and relaxing on the way back!
Rene is such a big boy now that he jumps off the diving board all by himself! I'm so proud of him!
Avea decided that she still needed my help...so it was fun to jump in tandem!
Such great memories from the pool (and remembering when I was their age)....

After our trip to the pool...the girls (Avea, my Mom and I) rode up to my parent's house together while the boys (Rich and Rene) took the truck and went and picked up Chukar!

We met up at The Old Spaghetti Factory and had a delicious dinner!

Rich, Rene, Avea and I...after our awesome day in the sun!
Saturday started off with a bang...as Rich headed to Bryan's house to help with manly wood-like things...and I headed out to my FIRST ever HOT Yoga! Wow, that was amazing!

Off to the kitchen to work on some corn, avocado and bean salad...plus a little guacamole for tonight's Mexican feast with the Curtiss family! Rich's famous Carne Asada will be on the grill at about 6...YUMMY!

W.I.N.O.S.S - the Eastside Branch

2011-06-10T08:14:00.000-07:00

Last night, I held the first W.I.N.O.S.S. (Women in Need of Spirits and Socializing) at my house...this idea came from a friend (Leslie), who has been successfully holding these monthly for a few years now! I decided that the Eastside Girls needed this fabulous group too!

We wined, we munched, we chatted, we had great girl time!

A picture from the maiden voyage with:
Jenn, Shauna, Jen, Rebecca, Amanda, Me, Jessie and Didi!
We did some good work...a round or two of sampling and then some more of our favorites! It was so great, everyone liked different ones and we got to try a ton of Rose' that maybe I would have never tried!
The plan is the 2nd Tuesday of each month...so next up July 14th...hostess is yet to be determined...any takers?

Sunny and SEVENTY!

2011-06-05T19:20:00.000-07:00

It was SUNNY and over 70 degrees all weekend...and it was AMAZING! Rich and I used every single minute of the sunshine to enjoy friends, clean cars, do yard work, BBQ, hit the dog park, hit a few fishing holes, go for romantic walks and just enjoy OUR LIFE...so nice to feel back in the groove and on the same page!

Saturday afternoon we headed over to the Rush Estate for the first annual seafood boil, ok, let's make it first monthly seafood boil...and it was amazing!

Take 1 pot of boiling water...
add delicious crab, shrimp, corn, potato, sausage and special seasonings....
and, WAH-LA!

Amazing dinner with amazing friends! Thanks Bryan, Michaela, Allison and Baby #2 for being such gracious hosts! We had an amazing time!
Sunday morning, we headed out early and went to the dog park, a few fishing spots, ran some errands...and more!

Chukar and I are one of Rich's favorite spots from the past...most likely the 1st place he ever took me fishing (Larsen Lake in Bellevue)!
My precious boys...love them so much!
Plus, they are both a little goofy!
We headed home and got the backyard ready for BBQ season...we are officially ready for guests! Who wants to come over?
All in all, I think that this picture describes how all the Meyer household feels right now...
POOPED!
It was a great weekend and we are looking forward to many more to come!

Let's hit the ground running for a great week...

Swim, Bike, Run?

2011-06-05T08:33:00.000-07:00

Sure, why not? Luckily, it was a beautiful Saturday morning in Issaquah and there was not a cloud in the sky...perfect racing conditions!

Here's a picture of the group at the start line area...we went in waves of about 20-30 people, so it wasn't such a disaster of clawing and swimming over one another! I, of course, was about 1 of 3 brainiacs that DID NOT wear a wetsuit! Poor planning and decision making on my part...but I made it! Only because I had Rich's voice in my ear telling me that I had to finish..that was my goal, and I completed that!

Transition from the swim to the bike area...and yes, I am barefoot running on cement, my poor feet still hurt today!
Heading in from the 15 mile bike ride...in which, I saw a dead baby deer, ran into a garbage can and helped a poor soul on the race that had a flat! Pretty productive day if you ask me!
Finally, I was almost done...the final stretch...running with shin splints and basically deciding if I was going to cry or puke at the end...well, you guessed it, I cried, but it was tears of joy!
Not sure how or why I sign up for these things...but it is always an adventure...and now I can say that I've finished 2 triathlons...pretty groovy!

Off to enjoy this beautiful Sunday that we have in front of us....

Summer Kick Off 2011

2011-05-30T11:50:00.000-07:00

Each year we kick off Summer with a little Memorial Day adventure...this year, it was at Andy and Steph's house in the Tri-Cities. A little fun, a little sun, and a little of what is to come!

I don't even know what I can say about this picture...
Shawn, Me and Rich...goofballs!

Chukar had a blast at the pool and decided that he was going to be the center of attention...Rich coaching him on how to stay....
Yes, he retrieved a duck decoy from the pool...and must have swam about 50 laps all day (maybe he should do my swimming leg of the TRI tomorrow?)...
Our little boy even learned how to dive/belly flop this past weekend...and Rich and I were able to get a little sun (so at least we aren't glowing anymore from our Seattle skin).
Sunday, we got up and headed out to fish and enjoy the sun with Shawn....the boys at Potholes!

Shawn with his first fish of the day....
and Rich with his! Not the grand fish of days past!
Until....Rich caught the HOG of the day!
Then, Shawn got a large one too!

The adventure of Rich's BIG fish!

It was a fun weekend...and only made me want summer a little more!!! Big weekend this weekend...sunshine, a triathlon, a BBQ with the Rush family, possibly painting and getting ready to REALLY start some work next week!

Quote for the Day!

2011-05-18T16:20:00.000-07:00

Today when I woke up, this quote from my mama-in-law was waiting for me in my inbox, it took me all day to read it, and I'm sure that it will take me a while to digest it, but it is amazing!

"May today there be peace within. May you trust that you are exactly where you are meant to be. May you not forget the infinite possibilities that are born of faith in yourself and others. May you use the gifts that you have received, and pass on the love that has been given to you. May you be content with yourself just the way you are. Let this knowledge settle into your bones, and allow your soul the freedom to sing, dance, praise and love. It is there for each and every one of us."

Amazing that it came today when I was questioning so many things...amazing that
I finally realize that I get to make choices for myself and I am in control of my destiny!

Today I choose...

I choose peace. I choose happiness. I choose to be the leader that I want to be. I choose to be driven. I choose to be thoughtful. I choose to be loyal. I choose to be ethical. I choose to make decisions based on what is good for myself and my family. I choose success. I choose the future. I choose now. I choose change. I choose to not be taken for granted. I choose not to be made to feel little or unimportant. I choose to allow myself to have it all. I choose to be in charge of my attitude. I choose reflection on the past. I choose to seek guidance as I grow.

I choose to be the person that I was meant to be!

Weekend Warriors..take 1!

2011-05-16T08:01:00.000-07:00

It's official...I think that we are booked through September 20-11...so if you aren't on the calendar yet...we will see you during Football season. Of course, I'm joking...kind of. Seems like May hits and the weekends fill!!! No rest for the Meyer Family!

Friday night was a BLAST with dinner at the Mitchell's House...along with Rhett & Lindsay, Andy & Shauna, and getting to meet Eli for the first time! Great times...and fun! This one time at Buca de Beppo....guess you had to be there.

Saturday was a little rockier start...including our new backyard buddy.

Meet the "MOUNTAIN BEAVER"!
NOT CUTE...I guess that is what you get for living in the 'burbs and having some space to stretch your legs!

Next up...a bike ride from Bothell to Redmond for me...that ended with meeting my favorite boys at Marymoor for a little off-leash fun!

Look at that cute little boy!
We got home and it was time to head off to a wedding at the Columbia Winery....can't believe that Rich and I will be married for 2 years this summer...it's crazy!
Jen and Alex came with us too....
Post ceremony appetizers and wine! (Yes, I had 2 glasses...shame on me)!
Brandon (Alex's cousin) and Richie.
The beautiful bride and her handsome groom!
LOVE...Leslie and Mike Whalley!
May 14, 2011
And, PLAY this...the AMAZING wedding singer! He sang everything from JT, Beyonce, Journey to Bon Jovi!

Sunday, it was time to help out Alex and Jen (who have helped us so many times before)...and get some paint on the walls of his new place on Alki! Can you say SUMMER BBQ's?!?!

Rich worked as the project manager...

while the rest of us listened and helped!

Alex putting the first paint on the wall!
A little precarious position....
Wah-la...the kitchen.
I'm exhausted just thinking about the weekend...better go to work to relax!
HAHAH, yeah right! It's going to be a nutty week, I'm sure!

"Mudders" Day weekend 2011!

2011-05-09T16:55:00.000-07:00

It was a busy weekend of celebrating and fun with our "Mudders" this weekend....on Friday night, my parents had their beautiful Godchildren, so Rich and I tagged along for dinner and some fun!!!

Avea was with my parents...
and Rene was with Rich and I! I think this is the first time that Rich and I have both realized that having kids is a FULL time job. Seriously, they are NON-STOP (in a good way)!
Saturday morning consisted of Rene's soccer game (at 9am) for me...and Rich heading over to E Wa to spend the day with his mama! This was the first year we didn't get to celebrate both of our mom's together...but we have been lucky enough to hang out with Mama D a few times this past month!

On our way to soccer...me crammed in between the car seats!
Of course, Avea, Chukar and I hung out during the game...and played!!!
Mama D opening part of her gift from Richie!
Then they (Rich and his mom) got spoiled with sliders...my favorite! Next year, I am NOT missing out on these!
Rich even explored a little in E Wa...and found a new little friend!
Saturday night...Rich got home and we headed to Ballard to meet up with some friends for the night...while Sunday was officially dedicated to SPRING CLEANING! Feels like a new home (again)!!!

Here's to a new week...and I'm sure some changes!

Join "Chukar & Friends" this year at the Furry 5K!

2011-05-02T16:24:00.000-07:00

https://cssas.ejoinme.org/MyEvents/SeattleAnimalSheltersFurry5KFunRunandWalk/TeamPersonalFundraiserSignupFundraising/tabid/279029/Default.aspx?joinme=5900

Please join our team of dogs and dog supporters! Sunday, June 12th at 10am! Walk or Run and have some FUN!!!!

Dogs and Dogs Weekend...part 2!

2011-05-01T16:07:00.000-07:00

It was a weekend all about the dogs...the HOT DOGS, the real Dogs and the Dogs at the Dog Park...and it was great! The weather even cooperated with the BBQ on Saturday, the 5K today and a trip to Marymoor!

I LOVE THE SUNSHINE!!!!

Brodi and I were ready with our dogs...and just waiting for the party-goers to arrive!

A little group action shot...me using Roy as a bench (of course)!

More group shots...people and dogs and dogs, oh my!We were able to get 5 of the 6 dogs to sit (and stay) for this picture!
Piper, Chukar, Maggie, Buster and Roy!
GREAT looking group of dogs!
Of course, they were sitting for treats!!!!
Mom and Dad with the puppies!
Time for birthday cake (Chukar thought it was for him...and of course, the twins didn't mind sharing)!
Some cake for Roy!
And more for Chukar and Buster!
Mom, are you really making me sit here while all the other dogs are having cake?
The aftermath of the birthday cake!
The party was great fun....(VIDEOS AT THE END OF THE POST)!

After all the peeps were gone, it was time to put on the puffy vests and head to Double D!
Yep, we are so awesome!
Mr. D and Miss B!
My BIG BUCK HUNTER!!!
And, the puffy vest group!
Seattle...
The videos of the fun times at the dog party!!!!

A little haphazard Easter weekend...

2011-04-25T19:27:00.000-07:00

A weekend of fun was had by all...I usually try to make things chronological, but for some reason decided that the weekend kind of was crazy, so this blog will be nuts too! (Just for reference, we go Saturday, Sunday, Friday)!

So Saturday morning...we (Rich, Denise, Chris, Brianna and I) got up early and decided to head up to the tulip fields and enjoy the beautiful sunshiny day! It would be Chukar's 1st trip in the back of the truck, Brianna and Chris' first trip to the tulip fields and a great time for all of us to spend together....

Here is Chukar getting ready to go in the kennel in the back of the new truck.

I would love to say that we were the only people who had this idea for Saturday...but it was apparent that LOTS of people were going to do this when it took us about 3 hours to get where it would normally only take a little over an hour. Good news is...we got some naps, some quality family time, and well, some interesting characters on the freeway!

IT WAS WELL WORTH THE WAIT....look at these beautiful TULIPS!

Denise with her sons!

Richie and I (must say that our pictures from years past were a little better)...

And finally, Denise with her "daughters"...or at least the ladies in her sons' lives!

After the tulip fields, we headed into LaConner to shop, look around and each some lunch!

Yes, and I even road in the back with Chukar for a bit...trying to be a red-neck, I guess! We have a truck now, right?!?!

Saturday night...we got home and decided to enjoy the sunny evening and have an impromptu BBQ (the 1st of many this year)...with my parents and the tulip field gang! Great burgers, dogs and snacks...I even whipped up a Chocolate Rum Cake!

Sunday came fast and it was time for Easter afternoon at our house...

Here is Avea, my mom and grandma!

Time for some Easter baskets for Avea and Rene!

Such a cute couple...I couldn't resist!

My man with Rene and Avea with Grandma, Fereti and my dad looking on!

A little group shout out from the living room - Aunt Roxy, Krista, RJ, Uncle Roger and Aunt Cindy!

Next up, the MOMS...Mama Boness and Mama Meyer (someday to Grandma Boness and Grandma Meyer)...

Richie work on the Kabobs in the kitchen...doesn't he look cute in an aprom?!?!

Richie and his Mama...look at those smiles?!!

The kitchen group...we hover around food, obviously!

RJ, Joni, Lori, Me, Denise, Roxy and Krista! I love how our families come together!

Moving outside to the grill with Krista, Denise, RJ, Me and Rich!

Time for the kiddos Easter Egg hunt....we had an adult one too, but no pictures or proof (thanks Aunt Roxy)!

The delicious Easter spread...thanks to everyone who contributed to the delicious spread!

Back to Friday now...and it was time for dinner with Rich's Mom, Brother and Brianna...we headed to Anthony's in Edmonds to enjoy the sunset and a great dinner!

Waiting patiently for our table.

Denise with her boys (missing Shawnee)!

And finally, Rich and I!

It was an absolutely amazing weekend, full of TONS of family fun, food, laughs and all around perfect holiday! Thanks to everyone who made the weekend possible...we can't wait to have many more weekends like this!

The end of an ERA....

2011-04-22T10:13:00.000-07:00

This morning..Rich and I took our final trip to Cafe Ladro with this lean, mean, orange machine...the Focus was sold yesterday and will bring much happiness to her new owner (we know and will miss her). Rich is off to deliver the Focus today...

She was a great part of the family...and the beginning of the Rich and Stacie ERA where we decided to make decisions together, for our future, together!

Next up...visits from Rich's Mom, Brother Chris and Brianna...plus, Easter fun on Sunday! Looking forward to a great weekend with family and fun and SUNSHINE!!!

73 days and counting!

2011-04-21T16:13:00.000-07:00

It's official, I signed up for my FIRST TRIATHLON of 2011!

Yes, it's done!

Saturday, June 4th (a mere 73 days from today)!

Where you may ask...well, Issaquah!

Let's do this!

Girls weekend vs. Boys weekend!

2011-04-17T14:59:00.000-07:00

FINALLY...a weekend were the girls did girlie things and the boys did boyish things....we chose to relax, slumber party and hang out, while they chose to camp, hunt and more!

Here's Erin and Baby Chase...7 months old this week! She came down from Bellingham for the night to spend some quality time with her ladies...miss her so much!
Next up, Mama Capps (preggers with #3 - due May 11th) playing with Baby Chase!
...and of course, another one with Mama Capps and Baby Chase!
Finally, Miss Amanda gets little Chase to SMILE...yeah!
The ladies...after some play time with baby Chase...time to grab a quick bite and enjoy GIRL TAlk...
Amanda, Erin, Kristin, Me and Suzanne (with Big Boy Kain who used the Big Boy potty at Auntie Stacie's - yeah!!!)
Well, I'd love to show the pictures from the wild part of the night...but we are OLD Ladies and called it a night after a little breast pump fun (guess you had to be here)! Love these ladies...Ms. O'Hara we missed you...but I think you enjoyed your mimosas so we will call it even.

Next up...Rich's adventures...he's still not home, but in route...so I don't know much except they camped, drank Wild Turkey, saw some turkeys, but aren't bringing any home! The boys had fun though...

Haha...this picture just cracks me up!
This was the "spot" that they hunted....
The beautiful morning!
It's great to have weekends apart...but Chukar and I sure miss PAPA! Come home!

My hubby....the rockstar!

2011-04-04T21:23:00.000-07:00

Not only is he the best husband in the world....or does he constantly surprise me with how awesome he is....how motivated he is....just now, I found out that he has been nominated to the board of directors of the Bellevue chapter of the WSCPA!!!

Yes! He is that awesome!

Xoxo babe!!!

A Hop, Scotch and a Walk!

2011-04-03T20:37:00.000-07:00

The weekend...well, we did it! We hopped...we Tequila'd...we dined....we walked...and even Spring Clean'd!

Friday night...Rich and I met up with Amanda and Heather and headed down to the Hop Scotch Festival in Fremont for some beer, wine, and even tequila....

Amanda and I decided that this was our favorite beer!

The rest of the pictures were a little like Vegas...what happens at Hop Scotch...stays at Hop Scotch!

Saturday was THE BEST...Rich, Chukar and I lounged in bed all day and ever got McDonald's...an amazing day of lounging for the family that never stops! The lounging had nothing to do with Hop Scotch the night before (haha)!

Saturday night we met up with the McNear's at Brix in Kirkland for a little Date Night...and YES, we were their first couple's date night...Yep, we fancy!

Sunday morning started bright and early with Team Sweetheart's 2nd Year doing the MS Walk in memory of my Grandma Sweetheart (and all other friends that have MS)!

We raised $1,450 dollars this year! A great push at the end helped us reach this goal. Overall, the Seattle walk has raised over $750K to date! Way to go SEATTLE! Next year we hope to have some more walkers...but my parents, Buster, Maggie and myself had a great time this year!

All done with the walk...Mom, Buster, Maggie and Me!
We got home and did some work for MMAC...and all the other fun chores that happen on Sundays while Chukar played outside!

Goofball!

We are all ready for Spring at the Meyer house...ready for weekend hikes, afternoon fishing trips to the lake, BBQ's in the backyard, camping and more...I guess it also means that I need to get training for my Triathlon this spring/summer (date TBD).

Another successful weekend in the books!
Next weekend it's off to the Tri-Cities...where it is currently 70 degrees!
BRING IT!

Chukar's day trip...

2011-03-30T16:50:00.000-07:00

Today was a long day at work for Rich and I....so insert Grandma to the rescue....

How she manages to video while she drives....and still stop at all stop signs and not injure the little ones...amazes me!

Of course, what fun is Grandma's house...without teasing the Bear Cubs...here is Chukar taunting Buster with a squeak toy!

Looks like someone had a fun day!

Mr. Waggles Wags Again....

2011-03-23T13:00:00.000-07:00

We love this little man and are praying for great news today!

Here is a glimpse into how he got his nickname "Mr. Waggles"!!!

Vegas Madness 2011 - Take One!

2011-03-19T17:28:00.000-07:00

After close to 72 hours in VEGAS (ok, actually 67 hours), I can HONESTLY say....we have been here for 3 more hours than necessary. Tried to get out of here early...but we are holed up at the airport bar.....so I blog....while I finish some red wine, recall the lack of sleep we've had and reminisce about the trip that was VEGAS MADNESS 2011 (the 1st annual trip)! It was definitely one for the record books with more 5 hours energy drank than a human should...and less sleep that I've ever had in 3 consecutive days...it was EPIC!!!

I have to say...if you weren't here...you missed out...and if you were here...then only you know the REAL TRUTH of the weekend...as this blog remains to be PG-13 and there are just some things that you can share!

Did I say EPIC....

Back on Wednesday (seems like a lifetime or 2 ago, and a pound of dignity ago)....Heather and I have our 1st cocktails of the weekend at the airport bar.

We rolled onto the strip about 12 am....and lucky for all involved there were no pictures from the night...which must mean that we didn't drink, didn't gamble and probably had an all around AWFUL time...I do know that the clock said 4:57 am when we rolled in, so I'm sure that we just helped little old ladies cross the street, took a quick jog and even enjoyed a movie (RIGHT?!?!)...well, if there are no pictures, then there is no proof....so if you weren't here, then you will never know......

Thursday morning we woke up early...after a 4 hour power nap and enjoyed the "JACUZ"...

(picking up the blog from home now)
Thursday...we continued our journey down the strip and ended up at the NY NY Roller coaster....best advice to give for this is to NOT drink a Long Island prior to boarding, but do make sure to pound 2 gin and tonics after....
We continued outside to listen to some Celtic music and drink up on Green Beer....looks A LOT better than it tasted (and that is not telling much)!
We continued on to Blondie's at Planet Hollywood to watch games for the afternoon...and then it was time to hit up the Dance Floor!!!!

Stripes and Stripes ready to DO THIS....BEST MUSIC EVER!
Ricky and Trish...doing it up right too!
And the boys are ready to hit LAVO at the Palazzo!
So cute....having a drink at the Lounge side...before hitting the dance floor!
And we are IN....well, to the skywalk, at least! Best part (ok, maybe not best part, but awesome that we drank for free for about 2 hours)....and DANCED!!!
Boy, am I thirsty!

Adam and I were cutting a rug on the dance floor and even had some "choreographed" steps
...if you are lucky, we might reenact some day!Yep..."we fly like that"!
....and the night ended about 5 hours after that picture....

Friday morning was GAME day...

Amanda, Heather and I decked out in our "game day" gear
...and ready for X-Burlesque that night!
A few Washington Apples before tip off (and by few, I mean 5)!
Yep, of course, he had to wear the hat....and yes, Cougs and Huskies can get along.
Insert hand motion here...
Ready for Friday night out on the town...X-Burlesque with the boys
...then the bars and "club"....
Our very special ride to the "club"....
Yep...Heather and I love these boys!
Posing...to make sure we are the best lookin' ladies at the "club"
...and YES, we succeeded!
Final day was a little rough...but we did hit up Cafe Bellagio for a late Brunch....and the FLOWERS were amazing (these are for you Mom and Aunt Roxy)!
The trip ended with a 10 minutes for $10...or maybe 35 minutes! I will make sure that I get the FOOT massage every time I hit up Vegas!
I had someone ask me the Best part and Worst part about our trip...and my response was - I don't know you well enough to tell you either...and believe me, the best parts of our trip WERE not captured in this blog...I'd recommend you book your tickets now for Vegas Madness 2012 - Take Two! It's going to be EPIC times 2!

No way, Joses!!!!

Vegas...March Madness....yes, please!

2011-03-16T09:55:00.000-07:00

Ready!
Set!
GO!!!

Time for basketball, sparkly shirts, cocktails and FUN!!!! We are off tonight to our SUITE, Sweet, in Vegas...for 3 days of fun, friends and I'm sure an epic adventure!

Vegas, be warned....Rich, Heather, Adam, Amanda, Chris and I are going to "DO YOU UP" this weekend!

A bet is just a bet....

2011-03-10T14:02:00.000-08:00

until it's based on you and your husband's alma maters...tonight marks the 3rd, yes 3rd time that the Huskies and Cougars will meet on the basketball court this season. So far this year the COUGARS have swept the HUSKIES...one of us is happy, one of us knows that their team can do more. So tonight, the rubber meets the road with the final match-up of the season in the PAC-10 tournament.

So much is at stake...the Huskies are still not a lock for the NCAA tourney next week...and if the Cougars win 3 games in a row then they could get into the tourney!
So much basketball, so little time.

In the early days of our relationship...we took these games as life or death. We soon realized that one of us is always happy and one is always PISSED at the outcome...so we have toned down our gloating and celebration periods and have tried to be a little nicer to one another. We always bet on these games...either clean or dirty...they were always fun. So far this year...we didn't and so I decided we must for this final game...otherwise, there is nothing on the line until Apple Cup in November/December and who can wait that long. I first thought that it should be a baby bet...but then decided that wouldn't be a good way to start the "baby-making" process...so here it is:

In the spirit of friendly competition, this is what I propose:

Based on Mama needing some new Jeans and Papa needing some new Italian leather work shoes....this is the BET!

UW wins (GIVEN)....mama gets a FANCY new pair of jeans!
WSU wins (GRANTED)....papa gets a pair of FANCY new Italian leather shoes

Deal?
No Deal?
Counter?

Stay tuned and GO DAWGS (from me) and GO COUGS (from Rich)!