Brrrrrr

It is sooo cold outside. Each day it is either 90 degrees or 40 degrees and raining. Today it is the latter so we are just hanging out and getting ready for a little Nascar. I finally hauled the sewing machine out this morning, but I think that might be it for now. Baby steps! Lucille, your room looks great. Our entire house is sage, red or khaki and it is a great mix. The kids have tomorrow off again so I think we are going to go bowling. I warned them of my previous bowling highlights, but Baker did not scare easily. Not fair that he gets inflatables in the gutters, but who is complaining! He is a trash talker. Lizzy, the Food Network has their first every Food Network awards. I think it might be good. It is tonight. 3 weeks to go so I am pathetically wobbling around. The last few weeks are great though because people are really just affraid of you and pity you. Stores don't let you lift anything or take things to your car. You get pushed to the front of the bathroom line and get lots of "bless your heart stares" from young and old. You really just have to embrace it. Sad but true. Dill has postponed his big trips to Asia and India until after the baby. I think he was just too worried that he would miss the birth. I am thankful, but was looking forward to having Caitlin and Mom visit while he was gone. Liz, how was the golf party? it sounded like my worst nightmare, but I am sure you had a great time. Love to all. Hopefully Chaz and Mom can figure out how to get on the blog one of these days.

weekend project

Hey! Well I decided we needed a little color in our house so I whipped up a new bay window area for ourselves today. I LOVE the color and this room needed color. I was getting a little beige and greened out! Can't wait for Jus to come home and see! The color is called autumn cover. It's raining here today, which is a good thing because everyone is talking drought, drought. I GOT A HUGE TAX RETURN TODAY. Alleluja. I love tax season.

I got nothin!

Can't compete with your last 2 posts guys. Maybe a picture of my current moo moo or hospital gown I will soon dawn. Shall I wear a big black hat with it or a wig, what do you think! Love you.

Wiggin' Out

I thought this was hysterical. Our friend Jen is moving to New York and she's throwing a 'you must wear a wig' going away party. This is her save the date.

My first big hat

I am so flippin' excited. This is my Christening outfit from BCBG. I am getting big ass black glasses and going to paint my toes and nails bright red. The dress is adorable on and perfect for work, too. I am going to get a big black belt to go around the waist. THE HAT IS AMAZING. I will feel very Kentucky derby. Also, the hat will be perfect with a white bikini on drew's boat! I also have white sandals and a white clutch to go with.

I AM GETTING EXCITED, TOO!!!!!!!!!!!

I can't wait to see this little one. I will for sure make it to Napa in July to make sure we meet. Have you decided on the name for sure? Having a little buddy in Mary Rowe sounds really sweet and low-key and I am sure that the boys are having a blast. How are you feeling?

Well, I am really excited for tomorrow because I have planned a big surprise for Drew in a shameless attempt to redeem myself. I can tell you what it is cause I told him he cant check blogger until saturday.

Magoo, great message about your therapist. Can't wait to hear more details.

We are going to a restaurant called butter. It is very hip and trendy and hard to get into and I am wearing this hot new dress (to go with my new sculpted no smoking/hot yoga bod) and i am going to look like a million bucks. Then, I got us a room at the W hotel on lake shore drive that is super trendy too and has great views of the lake and those 'rain' shower heads. Love those rain shower heads. Anyway, I figured it may be nice to pretend like we were on vacation for a night. We haven't got dressed up in a long time and I found the room on priceline.com for 1/2 of what it usually is. Plus, my tax return was nice so I've justified the expenditure. click on this and go to photo gallery to check out butter: http://www.butterchicago.com/ and check out W: http://www.starwoodhotels.com/whotels/property/photos/index.html?propertyID=2005

Love to all.

Easy Breezy

Well, I am living the life. Dill and Baker left for North Carolina yesterday so I just have Mary Rowe this week. I am not sure there is anything easier or more pleasant than just having one 3 1/2 year old child. We have had a blast. Our toenails are painted, we've shopped, dined, swam, played games, worked puzzles, gone on walks. Heaven. Baker is having just as much fun hanging out with Daddy and the Dill's so everyone is happy. Yesterday they came and ripped out the deck. Today, they took down the tree and tomorrow I think they start to build. Very excited about that. I spent 3 hours at Babies R Us yesterday getting all things baby. Diapers, swing, onesies, a bassinet, bottles, pacies, shampoo, a tub, Baby Bjorn etc. So fun. Mary Rowe used all of Baker's stuff, but sharing a third time was too gross, except for the crib. Now I am really excited about the baby, it is really real now. Then Mary Rowe and I hit target today to get all the necissary travel toilletries to put in my hospital bag and came home and packed. I have that baby coming home in a precious gown and light blue hat. Tomorrow I go to sign Baker up for Kindergarten. I cannot believe he is old enough to go. I am heartbroken! I hope he is ready. I am sure he is much more ready than I am. At least all of his friends will be there and he can hardly wait to ride the bus each day. So big boy. Dill is trying to figure out if he is going to India this weekend. He did not realize that he needed a temporary Visa to go so he just filed for an expedited one on Monday so we don't know if he will get it in time. Luc, I love the drapes as well. Any drapes in raw silk are right up my alley. Great job. I wish you were here to get me motivated to get my sewing machine out to recover the bumper for my porta crib and do a couple of baby pillows etc. I need the sweat shop to be in full force! Chicken hash sounds good. Seems like it may be even better if you shredded the chicken. Thanks for the recipe. It is rainy and cold here, not snowing like Chicago, but pretty bad. Love to all.

Recipe for You

I used leftover chicken from two night's ago and made this last night. It was delish. Good for breakfast.

Ingredients
4 cups chicken broth or water
2 whole skinless boneless chicken breasts (about 1 1/2 pounds), halved1
1/2 pounds small red potatoes1 large onion, chopped fine
1 small green bell pepper, cut into 1/4-inch dice (about 1/2 cup)
1 small red bell pepper, cut into 1/4-inch dice (about 1/2 cup)
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon white pepper
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme, crumbled
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup chopped scallion, white and pale green parts only
1/2 cup packed fresh parsley leaves, washed, spun dry, and chopped
1 cup half-and-half

Accompaniments
poached eggs
toasted whole-grain bread

Preparation
In a deep 12-inch skillet bring broth or water to a boil and add chicken breasts in one layer. Reduce heat and poach chicken at a bare simmer, turning once, 7 minutes. Remove skillet from heat and cool chicken in liquid 20 minutes. discard liquid and cut chicken into 1/2-inch cubes.
Cut potatoes into 1/2-inch cubes. In a large saucepan of boiling salted water cook potatoes until tender, about 15 minutes, and drain in a colander.
In a 12-inch heavy skillet cook onion, bell peppers, and garlic in butter over moderately high heat, stirring frequently, until softened, about 3 minutes. Add spices, thyme, and salt and cook, stirring, 1 minute. Add chicken, potatoes, scallion, parsley, and half-and-half and cook over moderately high heat, stirring occasionally, until half-and-half is reduced slightly and hash is thickened.
Top hash with poached eggs and serve with toast.

What is Chicken Hash?

Age Discrimination

Well I figure I can't discriminate by age so all ages are at risk of being fired. This woman deserved it. She might be old, but she doesn't have any mental disabilities or physical issues. So she is physically and mentally fit to be fired. The trick is convincing my boss of this criteria.

I'll decorate your place any time. The draperies are so well made. We are doing something similar in the living room but they're not done yet. They are soooooo expensive but so much bang for the buck.

I'm going to make chicken hash tonight for dinner - never tried it. xoxo, L

You are SO hired

Those drapes are gorgeous. I can't believe you fired an 85 year old woman. Absolutely priceless. You will decorate my first home (at discount of course...) :-)

Finished

I think I would die if I went to that party. Are you kidding me? Be careful!

I finished up a super traditional house yesterday. Here are a couple of the photos. It's a beautiful day here. I decided to keep my therapy appointment for tomorrow. I am really looking forward to it. xoxo,

L

OMG, look at this party invite I just got for 2 college buddies....

YOU’RE INVITED
ANDREW & JORDAN’S 27TH BIRTHDAY PUB GOLF OUTING
SATURDAY, APRIL 14TH

9 WATERING HOLES
Irish Eyes Bordo’s Gin Mill Halligan’s Kendall’s Lion’s Head O’Malley’s Gamekeepers Stanley’s

WHEN/WHERE: APRIL 14TH, 2 PM TEE TIME START AT IRISH EYES (2519 N. LINCOLN AVE.)


The Rules:
- Golf attire required.
- $20 per person—money will be used for prizes & lunch after the 4th hole.
- Foursomes will be picked randomly and include 1 girl on each team.
- Each foursome will attempt to consume a total of 4 drinks at each bar. 4 drinks is considered “par”. Your team drops one stroke for every drink above 4. Your team gains one stroke for every drink below 4. The team with the lowest score (most drinks consumed over par) is the winner. *Scorecards will be provided.
- ½ hour will be spent at each bar.
- Drinks are golfer’s choice except for these requirements:
- EACH GOLFER MUST HAVE 2 SHOTS DURING THE GAME AT ANYTIME, 1ST HOLE MUST BE A CAR BOMB, 9TH HOLE DRINK MUST BE A MARTINI (anything in a martini glass accepted).
- All members of your foursome must be present at the 9th hole to win. NO HOUDINIS!!!

*ALL PLAY GOVERNED BY USGA RULES
*PLEASE CONTACT TOUR OFFICIAL IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO BRING SOMEONE AS A SPONSOR’S EXEMPTION
**All Rule Discrepancies will be handled by our PGA official Mr. Jake Jenner**

Prizes for: Weakest Link, Strongest Female, Best Dressed Male & Female, Best Team Score, Best Individual Score & more!
RSVP: carolyn@stefanigroup.com We need to know if you’re in or out by THIS Friday in order to set up teams accordingly. You are responsible for your own drinks at the bars-bring cash to avoid opening and closing tabs.

The Christening

First off, thank you ladies for being there for me yesterday. I didn't know you could just google Shawbang and see our blog. We should let mom and dad know so they can check in from time-to-time since they are too lazy to upload the new blogger.

Well, I guess Lucas' christening is a big deal and all these people are coming in town and Kristi is throwing a big luncheon at her house. I am excited to see James. Mom and Mike are coming, too. I am going to buy a proper church outfit to wear. I figure Ann Taylor ought to do the trick. That's pretty much where I buy all my work/ wedding clothes anyway.

I basically have no plans for the week but I am going to go to yoga again tonight by myself which is a big deal. I'd rather go with someone else but I can't find anyone who isn't busy so I am going solo.

Therepy to the rescue

Good for you Magoo. I am very interested to hear how that went for you.

I know I always talk about weather but that's not going to stop me. It's snowing out me window, yes snowing. Poor Oscar was freezing cold on his Easter egg hunt and we didn't even take Lucas outside. This weekend was pretty eventful. I am addicted to hot yoga. I went on Wed, Sat and Sunday last week. OMG, it's the best. It's the best workout for people who hate to work out (me). you walk out 5 pounds lighter, your skin looks great and you are allowed to eat as much salt as you want after! Where has hot yoga been my whole life?

Lyd, pretty blanket.

Everyone have a good week.

Happy Bunny Weekend

Sorry so MIA. Work has been all consuming this week. The guy we were going to fire quit instead so it's been a little hectic going from 4 to 3. I had a big install on Friday for a family in Burlingame. The dining room draperies are smocked and look so luxurious. I am finding that I can do traditional homes - it comes very natural to me, but I enjoy more transitional homes because you can make up your own rules and get more creative. But at this point Cheryl is giving me the traditional homes because I can see them, I get it. So that's been a little frustrating, but one day I hope to have my own business and I'll get to do the kinds of jobs that I want to do.

I have an appointment with a therapist on Wednesday to discuss Justin's family situation. I'm still very angry at Justin's father and if Jus and I are going to spend a lifetime together, I need advice on how to live peacefully with his family. So I am really looking forward to that.

I am driving up to Meadowood today to soak up some more sun. Sophie Esser is going to meet me and my concrete truck friend. I have really been enjoying Napa lately. Not so fond of the concrete, parking tickets and fog. We are doing Easter at Charles Krug with Justin's mom's family. I haven't met very many of them so it should be interesting. KC O'Connell will be there so at least I will know her.

I did some serious shopping yesterday. Whoops. I got a beautimous new spring dress that I'm going to wear tomorrow. Okay, Justin has to take the computer. xoxo, L

Showing Off

Just finished this precious baby blanket for my friend Catherine's little girl, Camille. Motivated me to start one for my little fellow too. Happy Easter.

Magoo, where you at?!?

Lyd- I don't know how in the hell you go with no sleep and then drive your kids to an ice cream farm in bumble. Seriously, you could wear the 'World's Greatest Mom' tee-shirt and be legit! I am loving the fact that Mary Rowe will carry on the Shaw Sun Goddess tradition. As a matter of fact, I will be hitting up those oh-so-healthy tanning beds myself tonight.

Speaking of tonight, I am going to the White Sox baseball with Alex, her boyfriend and Drew. It is about 30 degrees here but my seat are TWO ROWS behind home plate and booze and food is free so we are bundling up and milking this puppy!

Last night I went to see Who's afraid of Virgina Wolff with Kathleen Turner and I have to say that I really enjoyed it. The last set was a little psycho but whatever. It was entertaining.

Lyd, good to hear that you'll be in Napa when I come out for Tish's wedding. I guess that will be the first time that I will see little BEATTY (have you talked to dad yet?)

Anyway, Drew won't shut up about his boat and quite honestly I am so flippin' excited that he has a boat it is silly. BLACK TAN. Bring it LYD! So, my next cooking task is cooking on the boat. I bought a burner so I can make food on it. We are going to sleep on it some nights. He got it transferred to the harbor 3 blocks to his house. Finally some Drew perks! Bring on summer!

Please come early little one....

Or else I am going to die of exhaustion! We are to the last days of "Spring Break". A time filled with no sleep, rain and fun comments thrown about such as my personal fave, "made you look, made you look, now your in the baby book!" Love it. Dill is actually coming home tonight until Monday so I am thankful for that. He leaves for his big India trip in a week and a half so he is gearing up for that. We have had fun this week. We've been swimming, made sugar cookies for Easter, done serious painting projects and hit good old MacDonalds. Tomorrow we are heading about an hour out of town and going to the Mayfield Dairy Farm to learn how they make ice cream. Should be a hit. It is Master's weekend so I look forward to vegging and watching that. As well as watching Casino Royale. Just came from Netflix, happy day. Church is a major maybe this year for Easter. May leave it to the JV team to get some credit for the year. Was hoping that Caitlin would make it down for the weekend but it is not looking so good. Bummer, it is always fun to have houseguests.

I died laughing the other day because I tried to put sunscreen on Mary Rowe and she yelled, "no mom, I want sun skin!!!" So funny. Then I yawned another day and she said, "mommy, do you have tired breath?" She is my piece of work. Love her, just don't want to cross her!! Miss you both and hope you have a great Easter weekend. Love to Justin and Drew.

It's raining tickets

I just scored tix to the ballet, chicago symphony orchestra, and Chicago Social Fashion Show. Man, I guess their are perks to being one of three employees to hand off tickets to!!!

I would cry if my maid quit

Sorry Lyd. do you want to know who runs thru maids faster than Murphy Brown ran through assistants? Kristi! She's got a revolving maid door at her place. We'll, I must be getting older b/c I actually remembered Carrie's birthday enough time ahead to actually get her a gift on time and sent Chaz a congrats basket to his new house. You two have always been on top of stuff like that but I am in Clark's camp when it comes to that. i am trying to be more on top of. Tonight is hot yoga. This should be really interesting. Let's just hope that Drew won;t want to be in the front row or anything. I can put my contacts in really fast now and, man, i am so glad to have these suckers. Shitty weather here. Going to a baseball game on Friday night and it will be 40 degrees. Nice, I'll make sure to pack my fur for the ballpark...

Take care Lyd. Magoo, any wedding news?

hello Ladies

Day 2 of "Spring Break" and the kids are about to send me over the edge. Nothing like a full week of rain in the forecast when you have 2 kids at home and one on the way. Dill left for Denver today and has a big meeting so I am looking forward to hearing about that. Can't believe we are 4-5 weeks away from the new baby. So fast. Liz, I am loving you having a direct line. I too would kill for a guignis. I am actually staring at the guignis coupon Clark gave me for christmas for 1 free sandwich. How cute is that?! Caitlin may be coming this weekend for Easter since we are no longer going to Chapel Hill. What are you all doing? I just look forward to the macdaddy brunch that Dill makes every year. Potato Latkes, french toast on Cinnamon raisin challah bread, fruit salad and Mamosas. Yummmmmmyyyyyy. My housekeeper quit today so it looks like I will be cleaning toilets and showers until I find another one. Yuck. I should just be a housekeeper anyway. I think it is secretly my dream job. How sick is that. I have an exciting night of American Idol and House. Lucille, I rented The Holliday and loved it. I loved Jack Black in it. Jude Law is always hot, but for some reason I loved Jack Black and Kate Winslet. Chaz looks like a black haired Jude Law in that movie. Love to all.

I need a Guinis/ Diet Coke fix

Man, hearing about sunny weather and Meadowood makes me want a guini's sandwich and a diet coke. It's raining cats and dogs over here. Sean gave me 4 tickets to Who's afraid of Virginia Wolff with Kathleen Turner for Thursday night. It's supposed to be pretty intense but worth seeing. So, I am taking a super random group of people. Mostly friends from work. I don't know if I told you guys but my office is above the Omni hotel on Michigan Ave and our office has the same amenities as the hotel. I can get room service in my office, use the gym on the 5th floor, lay out on the sun deck, belly up to the bar- yeah, it's awesome. So I have been trying to go to the gym twice a week and tanning once. I start beach volleyball and softball mid-april. Wedding season starts in June- we're kicking it off with a big one at Martha's Vineyard and Fisher will be there so I am really excited to see her. Not only did Drew finally get us a hotel, he got us a room at a B&B. Good boy! Love to all.

Meadowood

Yesterday was the day to be lounging at Meadowood. The sun was shining. Justin's mom was there, my friend Margaret was there who just got out of the hospital after the concrete truck hit her (and she lost tons of weight and looks fab! Actually, she looks just like lindsay lohan but not in the slutty way.) So we were all drinking maragaritas and soaking up the sun. Then Carlo Mondavi shows up with my old friend from Offit Hall who I used to sit next to. Turns out, they are dating! Then, this 31 year old ex-pro hockey player from Canada starts full fledge hitting on Serena. Serena didn't have a swim suit, it was hot so she decided to jump in the pool with her clothes on. Well this guy LOVED it and was, no question about it, trying to get Serena to come up to his room. It made her day!!! She said, no I'm married but she was definitely flattered. At the end of the day he walked her to her car. It was hysterical. She was grinning ear to ear. Anyway, it was all very entertaining. So much so that we are all going to meet there again next Sunday.

Work has been a little nitty gritty lately. There are too many details to deal with in design. And too many places where things can go wrong. Justin has moot court tonight so he's been practicing in his suit for me for the last 30 minutes. I don't understand a word he says. Law speak is rediculous.

I am back into wanting a dog. It too will pass. xoxo,
L

Too much wine

Well, I did it. 5 courses. Only problem is that I got too drunk at the end and my souffles didn't work out. They looked like bowls of goo. Whatever. It was really fun. I am sending ofoto to you. Sorry if we all looked bombed. Love to all. Have a good week.

We're back!

Alright, back on the wagon- love it. SWEET cake, Lyd. VERY cool. It's nice that you have such great friends and I am glad that you were able to drink a glass of champagne.

Magoo, good talking to you. Hang in there. It's tough dealing with all these wackjobs, I mean, all you're trying to do is just plan a big party right?!? Jezzzzz

As for me, all is well. I am stirring up all sorts of drama between me and drew cause I must have some mom in me but thank god he has some Mike in him so everything is fine.

I am so pumped about work again which is really good for me. It's so exciting to actually own a part of this thing so I'm really motivated. Also, I get my own bio and picture on the management page of our new website. LOL. From the people's republic of Boulder to Corporate America.

Love to all.

Update

Hi All! Well we have abandoned the Baja idea for now for a number of reasons. So we don't need to reserve the May 24th date anymore. Sorry for the false alarm. I am now waiting for the next idea to come to me. Hopefully the place will not be in the middle of no where so people can actually get to it! We also need to find a place that is on neutral ground so that all family members can feel at ease (namely, Justin's mom). We don't want any family drama at our wedding! I was disappointed earlier this week but now I am really happy that we are considering other options. I think Baja could still be an option, but not at the Buell casa - too complicated, too many chiefs - not enough indians.

jus and i are both sick but misery loves company so that's good. we've rented a bunch of movies to watch for the weekend. today was a hectic hectic day at work so i am happy tonight is friday eve. i had dinner tonight with my friend simone. she is a really good friend and a good person but i never see her because she is a first year lawyer and she has to work a lot. Lizzie, she is the one that spoke with Drew.

lydia, your cake is very chic. that was nice of your friends to put that together for you.

lizzie, nice talking to you the other day.
-L

Baby Shower

My friends had a wonderful baby shower for me tonight. So fun. The cake was so amazing. Miss everyone.

where my bloggers at?

Yo ladies-

How's it goin'? We have San Fran weather today; gray and rainy. No big news here but I am convinced the rest of our family might be losing their minds. But, as ol' dr. feelgood says "don't let their problems become yours" LOL, love Dr Feelgood.

Saturday is the big dinner party, good lord. Here we go (turn on mouth watering switch...)

• 1st course: chilled asparagus soup with fresh crab meat and avocado
• 2nd Course: Frisse salad with celery root, apples, goat chez and poached egg
• 3rd course: Pan seared scallops wrapped in Prosciutto served in the shell
• 4th course: Mom's kick ass pepper tenderloin and Bearnaise sauce (Make personal trainer appointment now) and some kind of starch
• 5th course: Chocolate souffles

Office is almost up and running. Just struggling with a retarded (and I mean retarded) IT guy.

Love you both. E

Where to start???

Sorry I have been so MIA but I've been pretty tied up. In the last 10 days, I have:

• Been to a cocktail party for seniors 90 and up


• lived in a retirement community for four days


• fried myself next to a pool


• driven a golf cart


• bought an entire new wardrobe at discount


• went to the zoo


• had a picnic


• went to the blackhawks hockey game


• went bowling


• spring cleaned my closet


• started a new job


• disputed a $200 claim at my bank


• planned a five course dinner party for 4 next weekend at my place


• caught up on missed 24 episodes


• watched blood diamond, the illusionist and casino royal

Not bad, eh? I sent you all some pics. It is warm as hell here and it is great. Hope both of you are well. Read up on all the updates. REALLY pumped at the idea of the Mexico idea. Lyd, DYING for Cubs pic of Baker. Hope you are feeling well. You are almost ready to pop! Any updates on names. Lucille, will you resend the final pics of the ballroom?

Love to all.

Napa

I haven't been to Napa since Christmas! Crazy, huh? So I went up today with my friend Leslie. We hit up Guigni's and Meadowood. Lovely day. Jus and I went to Bolinas Friday night and we made a chocolate molten cake. OH MY GOD. I got the recipe out of a magazine. I'll post it. I also found another recipe for salmon that I tried this weekend that was really light and fresh. So I'll email that out to you two, too. Thanks for the update Lydia. Lizzie, need an update from you. We are letting go of one of our employees tomorrow at work so I am little nervous about that. But I think we will be better off without him. I've just been plugging along trying to figure out wedding stuff. I've been drawing out ideas for a wedding dress. It's fun to sketch out this stuff. I've been having wedding dreams so I'm keeping a journal by my bed so I can write them down when I wake up. I spent four hours yesterday listening to i-tunes and trying to find great mexican music. I downloaded the Freda soundtrack and really love it. That movie was really interesting. I watched Devil Wears Prada this weekend and The Holiday. They were both really cute romantic comedies. I'm adjusting back into the work week which has been difficult since our Mexico week. My throat hurts so I hope I don't get a cold. There is something going around right now. Good night.

Hello Ladies

Miss everyone and glad you both got home safe and sound from your vacations. Have had a busy and great week here. Last night there was a Bingo Night and party at the school Baker is going to next year for Kindergarten. He and 12 of his friends from the neighborhood are all starting there together in the fall so they were feeling mighty large and in charge last night. Really quite cute. I don't know if I have ever played bingo until last night, but it was really fun. His school is excellent and feels like a small elementary even though we are in a big city. This morning, Mary Rowe and I went and met Mrs. Lail at Starbucks for breakfast. She is here for the annual wine tasting so it was really fun seeing her. She had flown here from NYC where she was with Shannon at Vera Wang picking out a wedding dress. So fun. After we left breakfast we met Dill and Baker at the Baseball field for Baker's game. He was great. Go Cubs. It was 87 degrees today so I felt like a huge, hot, sweaty, pregnant lady at the game. Hopefully it cools down. Tomorrow is our neighborhood Easter Party, Egg Hunt and Parade. All of the kids decorate their bicycles for the parade so it is really cute. This is the first year that Mary Rowe has one so hers should be dolled up. We are definately hitting Michaels in the morning for supplies to decorate. We are headed to Chapel Hill next week for Easter Week and Spring Break. I am driving the kids and the dog both ways alone which I am not looking forward to since I have to pee every 5 minutes and sitting for 7 hours sucks when you are 8 months pregnant! It will be worth it when we get there. I will just chill and nap and enjoy the week while the Dills and Caitlin wisk the kids off for various activities. Dill has been working 24/7 lately, but loves his new job. He is going to India in 2 weeks and is really looking forward to that. Lets hope the baby doesn't come early! He was interviewed yesterday by a news agency in Africa and as soon as the baby is born he has a series of trips to Kuwait, Dubui and Hong Kong. Very exciting. Luc, got your message yesterday. Yes, I am so sad about John Edwards and his wife. They already had to go through the death of their teenage daughter and his wife's breast cancer and now to have cancer again. I don't know how I feel about him continuing to run. I am quite sure it was a decision that they made together so it must be a dream that they both have. Looking forward to the next 6 weeks to get ready for the baby and for summer. We are all set for Michigan. We rented a house for the week ending the day after the Lobster Bake. I think July 29-August 6th. Very exited. We are going to drive again this year. We loved it last year. I just knit the whole time and the kids loved the view. Dill just listened to old radio episodes of the Lone Ranger and Dragnet that his Dad gave him so we were all very happy. Plus, we had never been to a Bob Evans and Dill got obsessed and so we had to eat at one for Breakfast, lunch and Dinner both ways! Very funny. We don't have them in Atlanta so he is fired up for his first visit. As for California, as soon as this baby is 6 weeks we are jumping on a plane and coming out for 3 weeks. Yippie! Love to all. Sorry about the long winded update.

Home again, Home again, Jiggidy Jig

We're back after a week of serious rest and relaxation. I just spent the last hour or so posting the photos so check them out on ofoto. It's hard to describe this place so hopefully the pictures tell the right story. It's so different from anywhere I've been. It's so remote and quiet and peaceful and serene but stark, harsh and dry and then you look the other direction and you see water filled with life - dolphins, whales, manta rays, and birds, so many birds- all colors, sizes, shapes. And so many bugs, everywhere. That part was a little gross. I'm not so hip with the bugs. the road you take to the house is very scary. It's like driving on Hwy 1 except there are no road barriers so if you take a bad turn, you fall off the cliff. It takes 1.5 hours to get there from Cabo and you go north up the sea of cortez. there is a wonderful family that takes care of the house. They helped me all week with my spanish. I don't speak a lick, but by the end of the week I felt comfortable saying little phrases here and there.

Our friend Will was with us for the first 3 days and then Sabrina and 10 of her friends came the last night and we had a big beach bonfire. We made fish every day for lunch - cevichi - Mmmmmm. I love that stuff. The fishing was fun because we kept stumbling upon all these amazing animals while we were out on the boat. The cock fight was really disturbing, but it was interesting culturally. Justin and I had a lot of free time to talk about the wedding. I think we've come up with some really great ideas. Mom, I can't wait to talk to you about all of this!!

We came home tonight and went straight to an Obama event. Obama was tired but good. I feel sorry that he is away from his family so much. Justin raised enough for us to go to a dinner with him tonight and I got to sit right next to him! I didn't know what to say. I was trying not to talk politics too much because I thought he would want a break from that.

I am really impressed with your yoga mat holder Lydia! Your knitting is to a new level. Maybe all the oojai breathing is helping with your knitting practice. I was shocked to hear that Shannon is engaged. She was always the I'm independent type. Bridget Maloney asked me to be a bridesmaid in her wedding this summer so that was nice. Lizzie, do you have any photos from your ski week? How was the snow? I think it's difficult to spend more than four days with the boyfriend's parents. Clark had to spend a week with Lucy's parents in their house in Kelseyville. That's hard.

Justin got an interview at Stanford re: MBA. He's really pumped about it because it's hard to get an interview and he wasn't expecting it. I'll keep you guys posted! Still no word from Berkeley - which is not a good sign.

Time for bed. xoxo, L

So Proud

I finished my yoga bag and it is amazing. Love it. The first thing I have ever knitted and then felted afterward. Very fun. All is well here. The work started on our house today so we are nice and high from paint fumes. Baker has opening day for baseball tomorrow so he is in a parade at 9 am and then has his first game at 3:30. Lizzy, I will definately take pictures because it will be his first time with his whole Cubs uniform on so I will post it tomorrow. Pretty slow weekend other than that. Love the idea of a mexican wedding Luc. Would we all stay in Cablo do you think? Is that the closest place? Hope you took lots of pictures.

Hello, hello

Lucille- a mexico wedding? I'm all for it. Please send more details. sounds so great. Lyd, glad you are feeling a little better. sounds like you guys are cooking up a storm and bakers school sounds really great. I can't wait to see the patio. make sure to post pics. That change will be huge and will change the house completely. Cheers to Shannon. That's big news.

are you guys planning on going to MI this summer? All is well here. I skied 4 glorious days and hiked 3 other. Being in Boulder was fun but I OD'ed on Drew's parents. oh well. at least I know my limit now. I am off to FL to visit gmother and take her to Chemo on Monday for 5 days. Should be intense.

Love to all.

Hola Conchitas!

Skinning dipping, daily fishing, yoga with views, whale watching, sea turtles, mahi mahi, schools of dolphin, flying manubas, eagles, sunsets on the beach, fresh fish for lunch, cevichi, margaritas, privacy, quiet, stars, bugs, bonfires, snorkeling, fresh torillas for breakfast, homemade quacamole, scrabble, more scrabble, taco night, cock fight, together, romantic.

This place is so special. We have decided to get married here. Punta Pescadero, May of '08. More details soon.

Hey Vacationers

How did dinner for Drew's parents go Lizzy? All is well here. Had ballet today and now the kids have friends over. Mary Rowe and her little friend are still in their Leotards, TuTus and ballet slippers and look adorable! Dill is headed out of town tomorrow and so I am going to continue on my crazy organization kick. One of these days I will be close to done. I really just need to throw everything away! Clothes especially. Luc, I hope you are doing yoga, relaxing and eating awesome food! I am sure you are. Oh, and playing travel Scrabble. Dill is making Cuban sandwiches for dinner tonight. I am very fired up about that. Can't wait until Baker's opening day on Saturday. It is very official. The ages go up to High School so the start the day with a big parade with all the teams in uniform and then the games get started. We also have our painter starting on Saturday so I will be psyched to get that done. Love to all.

The Sister Left Behind

I thought I would write to you ladies as you each were on your glorious and well deserved vacations. I can't wait to hear about the Yoga with incredible views from Luc and the skiing from Lizzy. All is great here. I have been feeling great the last few days, believe it or not. It has been really hot and the kids were out of school so we had a lot of outside time. Yesterday the kids and I had a great day at the zoo. Our Panda just had a baby so that was pretty amazing to see. I swear we go so much that one of these days I am expecting the Elephant to address by name. We had a great dinner party last night. Dill made Greek Gyros, Greek Salad and Strawberry Rhubarb Cobbler and I did a hot artichoke dip for the appetizer. So yummy. Everyone got nice and drunk except me. I was stuck with my non-alchoholic beer. It actually is good, but no fun benefits Then tonight Dill made caramel from scratch and put it over Vanilla Bean ice cream for us and I swear it was the best thing I have ever had! Still on a serious organizing kick. The work on our house begins in a week so I can hardly wait for that. It will be such a load off to finish the indoor painting. It was about time that we accepted that we were never going to have time to finish it all ourselves! The baby seems to be doing great. I am on the home stretch and getting really excited. I can't believe I forgot to blog this, but Shannon got engaged a few weeks ago so we are so fired up about that. Will be an awesome wedding. They seem to be leaning toward a destination wedding but have not picked a location. They are definatley shooting for late summer/early fall. Any news on your possible dates Luc? I know you said it might be a little sooner than you previousy thought. Looking forward to another long day in the sun tomorrow. I have been on a serious gardening kick in the front so I think the kids and I will visit our Home Depot buddies again. I love you all and hope you have safe and amazing vacations. Sorry my blogs have been so few and far between lately. Maybe now that I am feeling better I will get back on track.

I just got a ticket

A stupid stupid traffic ticket. I am so angry, mad - the injustice of it all! I am taking this to court big time. I was so close to calling the police officer and asshole because he was. He said, 'I talk, you listen'. UUUUUGGGGRRRRRGGGGGG. My first ever traffic ticket. I called Justin and he said he would represent me. He's excited about going to court. Great.

Hola

Hello all-

Hope everyone is well. I babysat for Chaz last night and I don't know if I am cut out for babies. Every time I set Lucas down he would start SCREAMING, I mean, I thought the neighbors were going to call the abuse hot line. He was teeething. So, I held him for 3 hours and I couldn't make Oscar dinner cause I didn't want to go near the stove so I fed Oscar apple sauce and string cheese. By the time I put Lucas down, it was 7:45 pm and I made Oscar spaghetti. I just think I inherited mom's geen (sp?). 3+ years is good with me. They can communicate and it's a lot easier but, man, those babies are a crap shoot. I am scared I'll be a bad mom one day. Ugh.

I leave tomorrow for CO and I am so excited. Drew has been the biggest stress case this week and I know he'll be happy to get out of here. I have been working all day on this plan for Sean. Revisions are due tomorrow. My camera is broken and I am so bummed cause I want it for our trip so I am going to get a disposable. I get my laser whitening tomorrow. Yippie! I also got my tix to see grandmother and i have to take her to Chemo everyday I am there. I am terrified but I feel I should go help if I have the time off and Kris got my tix. I just hope I can handle it. Kris even said its pretty intense- I guess she hallucinates a lot during Chemo.

Anyway, Jersey boys comes in October to Chicago, I checked it out. Lyd- I am jealous of your tan. My facial girl at Bliss yells at me about tanning and I tell her that it's just something that's gotta be done!!! Need pic of Baker. I bought frames at Crate and Barrel for my new office.

Jersey Boys

I went to go see the musical Jersey Boys last night with Justin's sister and mom and it was so so good. By the end of the night, we were all standing up clapping and dancing. I really recommend it if happens to come through Chicago or Atlanta. But it's not good for kids Lydia, there is a little bit of swearing. Only three more days...

Friends, snow and sledding accidents

Most pictures ever posted in one post award goes... to lucille. We had a super relaxing weekend up in Tahoe. The snow was fantastic and having our friends up there with us made it even better. We made a delicious dinner on Saturday night and afterwards spend a few hours sledding down this hill close by the house. We all woke up with injuries the next day. Marissa had a huge bump on her head, one of the sleds was broken, my back is killing me, josh had a big scrape on his back. Justin had the fastest sled but somehow came out unscathed.

This is the last week for the Ballroom. I have five days to tie up all the loose ends. I will post photos when it's all finished. We are going to Mexico on Friday for a week - I can't wait to feel the sun on my skin! Lyd, I am so into yoga right now, too. We got some videos to bring down with us next week. I am hoping to set up the lap top outside and do some yoga looking out to the ocean. The desk design sounds faboo. You will have your own little club right in your back yard. I am sure all of Baker and Mary Rowe's friends will love coming over. Your house is going to be the house where all the kids want to hang. Good luck with convincing the husbands to make it annual. That was a great weekend. I think you would make a great teacher. Yoga for kids in big in SF.

Lizzie, glad the meatloaf was success. Justin laughed when he found out you added cheese to the recipe - I told him the Shaw's add cheese to every recipe. Have a great time in Colorado. Don't you love law school spring breaks?! No, no more news from other business schools. Justin checks the mail every day but no word.

Alright, my back is killing me. I've got to hit the hay. XOXO, L

Good update Lyd

Wow, lyd. Hands full. Loving the deck. That will rock. Well, another successful dinner party. I had 12 people over ad i think we drank 2 cases of wine. Goodness. Today is our 7 month anniversary (who's counting) and we're sitting at a coffee shop reading and doing work stuff. 4 days until Colorado and i couldn't be more excited. I am hoping that some of that luck they have been getting in Tahoe will come our way. The meatloaf was a hit and i made it with a Gorgonzola sauce that defiently raised the bar. Carrie made some chocolate mousse pie that was killer. My friend tanner brought me a hostess gift and it was funny because i felt like such an adult. dinner parties, hostess gifts, couple dates, what the hell happened here!?! We went to the HOUSE OF BLUES on friday night with andy and carrie ti see rusted root and that was really fun. its great having couple friends. Except Andy and Drew and real good buddies so now they gang up on me and carrie and make fun of us. the sun is out- this winter has sucked so any sun even in 20 degree weather is welcomed. i am going up north to visit kris tomorrow AND I AM BABYSITTING FOR CHAZ and lena on tuesday night. i have been fake baking up a storm so i am tan. Lyd make sure to get a pic of baker in his cubs uniform and send along. i am going to frame and put in my new office. love to all. Oh yeah, for the record, the sign i saw still has me laughing. ALL UNATTENDED CHILDREN WILL BE GIVEN AN ESPRESSO AND A FREE PUPPY

Where to begin

It has been insanely busy around these parts. We have finally decided to do some much needed home fix ups. Dill has designed an insane new deck that we are getting put in. We are ripping out the old one and doing a huge 2 tiered deck with built in planters, seating, a fireplace, grill, bar, lighting etc. Then we are ripping out the yard and putting in a big area of sod and a basketball court off to the side next to the tramp. I don't think we are ever going to leave it. We are also replacing the collumns on the front of the house, getting it all re-painted and getting the inside painted in all the places we just haven't got to. Finally, we are having the copper backsplash in the kitchen buffed to completely new and then sealed so we don't have to shine it weekly any more. I think it will really lighten up the kitchen. Needless to say, I am so excited to be getting all this done. It will make life so easy having such a great yard when the new baby comes so the kids can just go play for hours. It has been gorgeous here so I am actually really tan. Thank goodness, because my stomach definately has a baby in it now. We are headed to Baker's T-Ball today then Dill and I are going to a dinner party at Anna's tonight. She is having a reunion of my Napa Valley Birthday Trip and we are having all the husbands come. I am bringing Mike's wine, Spencer's wine and 2 buck chuck. Catherine put together albums for all of us from Shutterfly with the captions etc. that she is giving us tonight and we are basically just going to have fun and thank the husbands for sending us in hopes of making it an annual event!!!! Dill has been gone Sun-Fri for the last 3 weeks so we have missed him. He is here this week so we are so happy about that. The kids have Thurs and Friday off so we will do something special and then we have a dinner party at our house on Friday night where Dill is going to make the Lamb burgers and Greek Salad that he and Lizzy made a few weeks ago. I am reading a wonderful book called Eat, Pray, Love. Don't look into the title, it is not a religious book. It is a memoir of a 30 ish woman who after a nasty divorce went to find herself by going for a year to Italy, India and Indonesia. It is great. I am almost done knitting my yoga mat bag. It will be great. I am now considering getting certified after the baby is born to teach, but want to teach children's yoga classes. I do at least 1-1 1/2 hours a day and love it. Have for the entire pregnancy which is probably why I am 7 months pregnant and have gained 9 pounds. The shape of my body has completely changed and I look taller. Go figure. It is actually really funny. They have found that most knitters do yoga randomly enough so they even have yoga knitting poses that you can do while you knit. The Satchmo/Tigger drama still continues so Satchmo is going to a 2 week sleepaway doggie boot camp. Hopefully for Tigger's health it works. Lizzy, in regards to your dinner. Since it is snowing there and your main dishes are meat and potatoes, I would not go crazy with the side. I would do a simple goat cheese and proscuitto wrapped asparagus. Just a thought. Love to all and hope you are all great. Any more word on Justins schools Luc?

Calling for th ebest side dish recipie ever!!!!!!

Ok girls, need your help. I'm making veal meatloaf and garlic mashers for a dinner party. What should my second side dish be? Blog me your ideas!

Go buy

"Something Borrowed", then get "Something Blue", by Emily Griffith. You will love them. She is terrific.

Yeah, read that one. I'm looking for something beach-ish. Not daniel steele but a real page turner.

Have you read Obama's book?

The countdown begins - 10 days until Mexico. Areeba Areeba.

Your little flower bullet points are so cute. Wow, I want to be Lizzie right now. Facials and teeth bleaching- I am going to call you hi-mai from now on ;). We're counting down the days for a trek up to Tahoe this weekend. We've been getting a lot of snow lately so it should be good. I talked to Clark today - he's up there with Lucy's family and he said the snow was incredible. So I am looking forward to that. And we've going to Mexico the weekend after that. I am so white right now but thankfully we'll be in the middle of nowhere so no one will see me. I'm getting back into yoga. I found this great place called the Mindful Body and I really love their classes. I was starting to get lower back pain so I'm trying to get my 'core' back in shape. We bought some DVD's of yoga to take down with us for Mexico and I need to get some good books. Any beach read recommendations?? xoxo, L

Where my girls at?

Ok, where are you ladies? I need some update action.

Well, unemployment is on the horizon and I am getting pretty pumped. Things to look forward to:

• My laser whitening appointment next week- watch out hollywood!
• My facial at Bliss Spa
• Find out if I won my 2 million dollars from good housekeeping (i'm in the finals...)
• my dinner party on sat for 12
• sleeping in
• my flight to CO with Dreamy on Thursday
• Not taking the bus at 7:30am
• A interim hault on dry cleaning bills

Long Time No Blog

Hi All- Sorry I have been so MIA but I have been pretty crazy. NYC was a total blast. It was great to see old friends and go to some new restaurants. You both sound really good. I am loving that Baker is a Cub and that your party worked out, Luc.

It's my last week of work and for some reason I am feeling incredibly anxious. It's bizzar and I hate the feeling but I just remind myself that i have a lot of change going on.

The Oscars were SUCH a bore last night (yawn). That is it- I am watching red carpet and reading about the winners in the paper next day from now on. That was torturous.

Drew started his internship today with a firm in Chicago. He works 15 hours a week now plus school so he is a busy man.

We are counting days until Colorado. I am so excited to go skiing and visit some old spots from college. It's been snowing out there and we hope it keeps up.

Lots of love to you all.

Lizzie

Girl Day

The "surprise" engagment party was way more than I expected. The girls picked me up and we went to the Farmer's Market for lunch. Then we went for a walk down by the Cliff House/Baker Beach and we stopped at this view point to have some champagne! We kept hiking for awhile and then headed to this wine bar in the marina where we just talked and caught up for two hours. It was such a wonderful girl day. I can't wait for another one of my friends to get engaged so we can do it again. Oh, and then they gave me stationary that says "Justin and Lucille". So I am going to write them all a thank you today on the new stationary.

Thanks for the update Lydia! You sound busy and Baker sounds like such a big boy. A week by himself with his grandparents - wow. Lizzie, we need an update. xoxo, Lucille Oh and Chaz, where art thou?

It's been a long time!

Sorry, long time no blog. Well, I am happy to report that I think I am on the mend. It is a miracle. Just in time too, Dill is leaving again today until Friday so I have another long week. Had a party Thursday and and Friday night so I am a bit pooped. It is raining today though so we can just hang out and relax. I had Baker play hooky from school on Thursday and we went to the Dinasaur Museum and to the Deap Sea IMAX movie together. He was in major need of some time alone with me so it was a very fun day. Dill had Donuts for Dads for Baker's and Mary Rowe's classes last week. All the kids get so excited for their daddies to come to school and so when they get there they serve them donuts and juice and show them all of the projects they are working on. Dill of course, being super dad also stepped up and read stories to both classes. He about died when he sat across from a dad named "Billy Jack", and next to "Bubba". I think we almost moved that afternoon, but he is now over it. Getting very fired up about the baby. My friends are giving me a luncheon so I am excited about that. Should be fun. Starting to nest a bit, which is good because my house really needs organizing before the baby comes. Baker is excited because he is going to Chapel Hill by himself for a week this summer to go to "Nono and Grandpa Camp." Mary Rowe is going to stay with me and the baby so I think she will love that too. We are way into t-ball and Baker is so happy because he is on the CUBS and he could not be more excited. He was dying to tell Liz and Grandpa Chuck. Luc, I am so happy for Justin, not at all surprised though. I am thinking Stanford. Also the Ballroom looks Faboo and I hope your "surprise" Shower was fun. Liz, hope NY was a blast and that you take advantage of your work break.

This & That

I told my boss Cheryl that you got contacts and she is thrilled to know you are having a hard time as well. She has been late to work every day for the last week trying to get hers in and every day she shows up to work with her glasses on instead.

I am sad to hear about Drew, but it sounds like a good opportunity for him and he definitely shouldn't work for an a$$hole. Not worth it. Justin is trying to figure out what to do for the summer as well, which is causing some sleepless nights.

When, not if, you move to SF, I would love to help with your apartment! There is this great flea market the first Sunday of every month that sells cheap/unique antiques. Sometimes you can find some amazing pieces.

xoxo,
L

If and when....

... we ever move to SF, you're hired Magoo. Your room looks great.

i think I have already told the both of you but Drew is not going to work for the guy in SF after all b/c he was a big a$$hole to him and I have never seen him so fired up in his life. Let's just say that Drew doesn't take well to ego lawyers. So, he is doing an internship now 15 hours a week for a firm here and is looking to do it through the summer which is good 1) b/c he will be here and 2) he'll keep the boat.

I went to see my new office at Sean's space and it's pretty sweet- very modern. One problem, he got me a desktop computer and, not to be a princess, I hate those things so I am trying to get it exchanged.

I got contacts last week and I am convinced that my stupid doctor gave me the wrong prescription so I am going back to test again b/c i still am blind.

Off to NYC on Thursday. Excited to see my friends.

Sweat Shop

Well, Justin is amazed. He's never seen our apartment turn into a sweat shop until yesterday. Since we got into spring cleaning last weekend, I finally decided to pull out the singer and get sewing. I am really happy how with how it turned out. Justin is even over the flowers. That was a huge deal. Now I just need some better scaled lamps and mirrors/art for either side of the bed.

Lyddie, the earing are beautimous! Good job Dill! I am sure they look beautiful on you.

We went to a memorial yesterday. The person Amy was so wonderful and I am kindof amazed by how much I miss her. People said such wonderful things about her and this one woman read a poem that was so fitting and captured the spirit of Amy. Afterwards we all went down to the beach and they put her ashes in a little boat that Justin's dad made and pushed the ashes out to sea from the lagoon as the tide was going out. Everyone threw out gardenias and daisies and so the boat went out in a sea of flowers. It was so beautiful and I think Amy would have loved it.

Clark and Lucy got a puppy this weekend that is ADORABLE. They named her Dixie. It was great to see them.

Lizzie, sounds like you've had a great weekend. Thanks for the advice today! xoxo, L

Unemployment

Well, if you were to ask me what I did this weekend, the first thing I would say is that I ate. My lord. I put on an easy 10 pounds. Who knew unemployment would make you crave cheese and guacamole so much....

Lyd, I want to steal those earrings.

I had a jam packed weekend. Second city comedy club, dinner party at my house (I made braised chicken with art hearts and peas and goat chez souffles with salad, mmmmmm) and then the auto show on Sunday. Man, the auto show has serious people watching.

I am off to NYC Thursday and am blowing it out with a big crew on Friday night. I am going to stay with Simone so it will be good to catch up with her.

Love to all.

Oh Pookie

Well, Dill was gone for Valentines Day so we all celebrated this weekend. He got me these beautiful earings, which I love and we had a great time. Had a great weekend, Daytona was amazing. Very fun. The kids have a holiday today, but MR still has ballet so we are all going to that. Hope all is well.

I did it!!!!!!!!

Well, I quit my job. So happy. I am going to lunch with Chaz today to celebrate and then Drew and I are off for Mexican food and a comedy show. Not bad.

Magoo, that game sounds so funny. Take some goofy pictures. All is well here. I got contacts yesterday and they give me bad headaches but the doctor said it will take some getting used to. It takes me about 15 minutes to put each one in, LOL!

Love to all,

Lizzie

Keeper

10 points for Drew. Flowers, champagne, fancy reservations AND tickets. This guy sounds like a keeper! We laid pretty low. Made dinner at home. Actually, I made great steak last night. I think I am finally starting to get the whole meat thing down. We did the champagne, strawberry and chocolate thing. Such a good combo. After all of this engagement business, I am really into champagne. It's just so good. We just had dinner with Justin's mom. She is having a tough time with her divorce so that was a little sad. I am excited to see Clark and Lucy this weekend. We are going to play this game where you turn on music and go in a circle and make up dance moves that are occupations. So Lucy does something like mail sorter and starts pretending that she is sorting mail at the sound of the beat. And then it goes to Clark and he says, Lawn Mower and he starts pretending to mow the lawn. They get so into it and it is hysterical. Really looking forward to it. Have any of you heard of dance dance revolution, the dancing video game? I just tried it out for the first time today and laughed so hard. Lyd, you should get this for your family. I think you guys would love it! I hope you are feeling better.

Best V Day Ever!

Well, we had agreed not to make a big deal out of Valentine's day so I was really expecting nothing special so I was- oh so- surprised when Drew made awesome reservations at this excellent French Bistro in a totally different part of town, showed up with champagne at my house with tulips in hand and gave me two tickets to Nora Jones in May! WhoHoo! Maybe Valentine's isn't that bad after all. It was so fun.

Tonight I am off to a benefit for Mayor Daley! So excited to meet the mayor. I have been friends with his son for over 5 years. So, Patrick invited me and I am really excited.

Lydia, call a sitter, lock your door and rest. You sound like you are dying. Tomorrow is D-Day and I AM SO EXCITED!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Love to all.

Lydia!

Oh my goodness. That is terrible. I am so sorry that you are not feeling well. But I am glad that you took the time to go to the doctor. You need to take care of yourself too lyd! I hope that your meds kick into gear and that you get back on track. It is no fun to cough up blood - very scary. Hang in there.

I am heading to Kelseyville this weekend to see Clark and Lucy. I am actually really excited to see them. It's been since before Christmas. We are going to a chocolate and wine festival and then Justin is driving up to meet us for dinner. I think we are going to BBQ. Sunday, we are going to the memorial service for Justin's parents house manager who unfortunately passed away recently. It is going to be so sad but it is nice to say goodbye. Our friend who got hit by a cement truck is doing much better. She broke every rib in her body and both lungs collapsed but she is making a smooth recovery after being in the hospital now for 3 weeks. Ugh, I hate the hospital. Lizzie, I ran into Steve Levitt at the grocery store today. He was wearing a pink tie in honor of Valentine's day. He's such a sweetheart. We've had a nice V-day and are gearing up to watch Lost. Love everybody. L

Mama called the doctor and the doctor said....

Get your ass in here. So after breaking down today I got the kids in the car and decided a doctor visit was a must for my survival. Of course this is after I woke up coughing up blood and blowing my nose with blood. So it ends up that I have
bronchitis, a sinus infection and an ear infection in my right ear. I feel like the girl from the poem in "Where the Sidewalk Ends", " I cannot go to school today said little Peggy Ann Mckay...." No wonder why I have been dying! I just started my prescription so hopefully help is on the way and I don't end up with a 2 headed baby from it. Dill gets back from Puerto Rico tomorrow night so we are doing a family Valentines celebration on Friday night. Then are having friends over to watch Daytona, Go Junior, on Saturday night. The kids have a holiday on Monday so it will be nice for them to have a long weekend. Lizzy, I am so happy for you and am especially happy about Drew's news. Love to all.

Happy V Day

Happy VAlentine's Day everyone!!!!!!

P.S. I get to quit my job in two days!!!!!!!!!!!!

Organizationally Crazed

Well, there must have been ritalin in the water this weekend because we were on a mission. Get orgazined or die trying. Fortunately we lived to tell the tale, but not without creating a massive hole in the bedroom wall and pulling a few muscles here and there. We IKEA'd it big time and it has made a huge difference. We got new wardrobe holders, one for me and one for him so we can finally have a place for everything. We also got more storage for our itty-bitty kitchen so everything has somewhere to be, including food, which prior to yesterday, had no home in our kitchen. Once we got all of this organized, we couldn't just stop there. I decided to continue on and totally rearrange our bedroom. Which meant completely taking apart the bed and the earthquake kit so I could move everything around. Well, needless to say, I pulled muscles in my back while doing all this and can barely move today. But damn gina, it was worth it! It feels so much bigger and now I am motivated to finish sewing all the bedding and draperies. So I think I am going to do that this weekend. Maybe I'll post a photo tonight right after I am done icing my battle wounds.

Hello Bloggers

Hey there everyone. Did anyone catch the Grammy's? I did and I thought they were awesome. I have to say that Christina Agrullaria (I just butchered her last name...) knows how to belt out a tune!

Well, 4 days until day day. Can't wait to quit my job! I still don't know the start date for Sean's new gig but I find out this week. So, either I'll start with him right away or I have been offered project work with Aon Corp so either way I'll be set.

I am getting fitted for contacts this week. Yippie. I have been in some serious denial about my vision loss for some time now...

Snowy weather here which is fun. Had a mellow weekend with the man. Love to all.

Good news!

The wheels are in motion and I am quiting my job a week from today! Why a week from today? Well, I am milking an NYC business trip and making every doctor's appointment on the planet and milking my benefits. SO HAPPY. I have been so UNhappy and I finally decided to do it! I already got an offer from AON to do contract work if this job with Sean doesn't start by end of March. I may get a couple weeks off and go on a trip somewhere. Anyway, so excited. I sent out an email with my new gmail address. I'll only be using that from now on. Feel better Lyd!

Sniffly, Sneezy, Coughy, Achy, Stuffy Head, Fever so you can rest Medicine...

I need my Niquil, but I can't have it because I am pregnant!!! Still feeling lousy. Dill took a redeye home last night and got home early this morning. It is freezing here and may snow. I don't want to get my hopes up. We just need one flake to make the kids freak out so we will see. Have a low key weekend coming up since Dill has to leave for Puerto Rico early on Sunday. Hopefully I am on the mend. Love to all.

What can I say, I am an optimist.

Not so fast

It was just an interview- nothing definite. However, it was a good boost of confidence! If he were to go there for the summer, I would probably come once a month...

Love to all

Yeah!!!!

That is so so so so so exciting!!! Please tell him congratulations and good luck. Does this mean you'll be coming to visit!! I hope so. I am so happy for him.

A step closer to San Fran

Lydia- I forgot you were home alone. That must be tough. I'll call and check on you. Feeling better over here in, now, 10 degree Chicago.

Well, big news over here. After COUNTLESS rejection letters from every law firm you can think of, Drew finally got a phone interview today for an IP firm in San Fran. He has been so discouraged and this little burst of hope brought a smile ear to ear. Thank god. I am so happy to see him excited and not so beat down. Obviously, I am not too excited about the idea of him living somewhere else all summer but if this is what he wants to do and I have to support that.

Chaz doesn't want to start up a new account on the blogger so we'll have to convince him or just set it up for him.

xoxoxo

Sick and Such

I too am sick as a dog and it sucks. Dill is out of town and I just want to curl up in bed and can't because all my little buddies want to play with me. I have to admit to someone that I actually am so sick and lazy that I just fed them Spaghettios for dinner at 4:45. Where is my trailer. Feeling pretty preggers lately. I sneeze I pee, I cough I pee, I laugh I pee, I jump on the tramp, oh forget about it! Nothing like a 35 year old in need of Depends! Lucille, do not fret. There was no way you could have known and they should know anyway that you didn't even need a big surprise party 1 1'2 months later, just a girls night at the time. Don't worry about it. Sounds like it has already passed. Very warm here today. Hope Chaz is able to join our little group again. Would love updates from him. Feel better Lizzy. Love to all.

Thanks Lizzie. I am laughing about it today. We finally got some rain here which is good because my car needed a little wash. I hope you and Drew are feeling better. Is it still freezing? I heard that New York got 65 inches of snow over the last few days. Weird.

L

Fiesty is good

Magoo, your honesty is what makes you- you! This is just an example of how things got piled up. Don't worry about the drapes guy- that is business. Period. About your friends, 1 1/2 months is kind of a long time and I wouldn't have expected that they would throw you a party either. At the end of the day you will be laughing about it. Cheer up and stay you. xoxoxo

Honesty

is sometimes not the best policy. I was way to honest today about everything. When the drapery maker called to ask why I didn't give him the job I said, because your unorganized and unprofessional. And when my friend told me she was going to throw a surprise engagment party for one of our friends I told her, I am sad because I feel like our group of girlfriends kindof skipped over our engagement and we never went to dinner or did anything to celebrate. I have pretty much been celebrating with all Justin's friends, but my girlfriends haven't asked to get champagne or anything and it's almost been 1.5 months. So I was sad. Well turns out, the party was for me and they have been planning it for weeks! I RSVP'd no to the party because I was so bummed that I got skipped over. So I've been digging myself out of that one tonight. Mom told me I was her feisty daughter. I concur. I am feeling like a horrible person and hope tomorrow is a better day.

Obama

Justin didn't take the job. He accepted an offer to be part of a five person committee that will do private fundraising on behalf of Obama's campaign. So the hours will be better and he will do what he can when he can, that way he can stay in law school. They had a conference call with Obama last night and they are asking this group of 5 to raise $10 million. So he's got his work cut out for him and I have no idea where he is going to find the time to do it. But he's so pumped and I think he just likes being in the loop. So Lyd, I'll tell him to keep the Dills in mind when it comes to events.

Lizzie, I am so sorry you are not feeling well. I know exactly how you feel It is the worst. Just rest, that helps the most and stay warm.

Camp Obama here in the ATL

The Dill's are all about Obama, us and Dill's parents. Tell Justin we are so fired up for him and to let us know if something we should know about goes on here fundraiser/event wise.

Weather

It's all we're talking about here in the Midwest. I mean, this is really bad. I don't remember the last time it was this cold and for so long! It's truly miserable. Those airline commercials with all the beaches make my mouth water. Drew and I are sick as dogs. He has hot/cold flashes which suck. One minute he's sweating through the sheets and the next he is pulling all the blankets from the couch onto bed. Poor thing.

I don't know what it was but that Doritos's commercial had me cracking up all day yesterday.

Magoo, awesome news about Justin. Knew he couldn't resist the offer. What a once and a lifetime opportunity! How is he going to pull off school?!?

Lyd, I agree, the ballet thing is SO cute. Take more pics. Also, for sure do California. You'll be able to relax and you have help and company there with friends, etc.

Love to all. Stay warm. 24 last night was awesome. I love Jack Bauer.

loved the doritos commercial

hi all. fun weekend. we went out to bolinas to have dinner with justin's dad which was dominated by political talk. we are in full fledge presidential mode around here. There is a barak and hillary event this week. justin has signed on to the obama campaign and the buell's are full force for hillary. so this is going to be interesting but justin is very excited about it all and can hardly stop talking about it. there is incredible strategic planning going on but i won't bore you all with those details.

saturday I had a beauty day. got my first ever facial and a haircut. loved the facial and can really tell a difference in my skin already. sunday i went on a hike with barbera brooks and a few other people. we are trying to go hiking every sunday. i'm trying to get back in shape so i'll feel cute in a bikini when we are in mexico. lizzie, we invited marina from costa rica to come with us to mexico. we've been going out to dinner with her and her boyfriend lately. so that would be really fun. keep your fingers crossed.

lyd, yes definitely go for the summer in california. that would be so fun. plus it would be nice to have mom around to help you when you have three babies.

so far this semester has seemed really easy with justin and law school. i think he's starting to get the hang of things. my ballroom project is going well. i'm getting some rave reviews about the color we picked. the whole thing will be done by the end of february--i hope! so i'll post some before and after photos for you two to see. xoxo, L

70 People..

Should not be at a SuperBowl Party! They had a ton of tvs going, but it was so hard to watch the game that we came home at the half so we could actually see what was happening and catch all of the incredibly crappy commercials. The kids were actually still awake when we got home so it was more fun to watch it with them anyway. Dill was really rooting for the Bears Liz, but I am affraid that the rest of us are in the Dungey/Manning camp. Dill headed out today for a 2 week excursion (with the exception of 1 day at home) to Denver, LA and Puerto Rico. It is freezing here too. 40 feels like -8 here. Have a Children's Healthcare luncheon tomorrow then a meeting tomorrow night. Mary Rowe is loving her Ballet still. Today, Baker, Dill and I all went to watch. Dill and I pretty much have to fight over who gets to go, so we decided we would just all go. I swear there is just nothing cuter than this Ballet business. Trying to get geared up for summer. All of the camp tuitions are due and are trying to figure out California and Michigan. I think I would rather be in California couped up with the baby this summer because Mary Rowe and Baker will at least have the pool and tennis court at all times without me having to take them anywhere or motivate. They can stay naked all day if they want. Sounds a little easier than being in 200 degree weather schlepping everyone to the pool here everyday. We'll see. Mary Rowe needs to start swimming on her own though so I can really veg with the baby. On a serious organizing kick. About 35 years too late, but welcome nonetheless. Hopefully I keep it up. Hope all is well.

Today's forecast in Chicago

0° F -4° F -18° C -20° C

I forgot to mention that it is flipping FREEZING HERE!!!!!!!!!!!

BEARS BUST

Well, we lost as you all know. BUT, it was a fun afternoon. This weekend was packed. We had a charity thing on Friday night and then Saturday night we went to Carrie's for dinner and then yesterday was the big game. It was fun to get all of us together for it. Magoo, I love your spirit! I have a semi ear infection and a kickin' cough so that's been awesome. Tonight is Jack Bauer and mexican food with Drew. Life doesn't get much better than 24, cheese and snuggles. Love to all.

Go Bears!!!!!!!!

My friend Scott and I are counting down. 1 hour until.....ahhhhh. We're so nervous. I love Payton Manning and I think he deserves a Super Bowl at some point. But I don't know if today's the day. Not against the Bears. I've got my Urlacher jersey on. Let's get this party started!!