So I'm sitting here shirtless with a baseball game on a television and another on the computer. There are dishes that need to be done, empty beer cans on the desk and laundry that should be picked up.
Allie's away at her NYC bachelorette party this weekend; meanwhile I am definitely bachelor-ing it up here by myself (though I am going down to spackle and paint in the kitchen later.)
Despite the recent parties and final celebrations of single-ness, I can hardly wait for these last two weeks to pass before the wedding. Of course everyone (even me) makes the jokes about cold feet, but I am really excited to get married.
Allie and I are probably not in the typical situation, having lived together for more than five years, as well as having bought a house together and sharing a bank account. Because of that, it is hard to imagine that things will change very much after we get married. Most of my friends joke that I already am married.
Despite all that, Allie and I actually getting married I think is still an important way for us to show our commitment for each other. We both have shown that commitment many times over the past few years, but marriage to me represents kind of an ultimate declaration that we will be together for as long as we live. I feel great about that.
I am also excited to celebrate with everyone who can make it to the wedding. My friend Mike Swarbrick found out last night that he will be able to fly from Portland to make the wedding, just in time for the deadline I have to turn into the caterer on Monday. I have to double-check with Allie but I think we're going to have about 125 people. Hopefully in their dancing shoes (or planning to dance in bare feet!)
I'm also relieved to start getting many of the details out of the way. I can really see things coming together. I'm sure there will be some gaffes and stressful moments, but I think it is going to be a great day!
Saturday, July 19, 2008
Things to do in Baltimore-Washington When You're Visiting
Anyone get the obscure movie reference in that title? Anyway, I think all the info on the right side of the page is done and updated, even the tourism stuff. I realize that since we're only two weeks away (note post above) it may not be as useful, but hopefully some people will find it helpful.
Cheers.
Nate
Cheers.
Nate
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
Bedtime
Hi all, it's just about midnight and again I didn't post all I wanted to. The "Useful Information Department" is fully updated. Although I updated some stuff in the "Things to see" I unfortunately didn't finish. As you can probably see from the post times, it's been a long day for me.
I'll do my best to have it finished this weekend, but because I know I need the final reception agenda and RSVP head count to be done tomorrow night I probably won't finish then. I have a big softball game Thursday and Allie has a hair appointment and needs to pack for her bachelorette party in New York so it probably won't get done then either.
In the meantime, feel free to contact Allie and I if you have any questions.
We're really looking forward to the wedding and can't wait to see all of you.
State censhorship
Allie tells me I've been leaking too much information on the blog and I am to stop. For instance, she doesn't want me to mention we decided to play REDACTED during the recessional. See.
Perhaps I'm ruining some surprises — I just really like to talk about myself. Tonight I've rehauled the right side of the page rather — the part that helps you — rather than talk more about my day (which was eventful as always).
Countdown ... 17 more days, wait, is it 16? ... must sleep
Up early this morning to tell you that even though part of procrastination's punishment is a lack of sleep, I've been sort of amazed at how much we've gotten done/essentially done over the last four days ranging from big things like the music line up to small ones like picking out art for the reception dinner tables.
I didn't get anything done Friday or Saturday (although Allie, Karen (Allie's mom) and bridesmaid/wedding planning All-Star Lindsay were burning through tasks) because I was of course away for Bachelor Party: East Coast with a rowdy bunch (though not quite as rowdy as Towson).
Here's a photo of us outside Dogfish Head Brewery:
It was a fun weekend. We didn't do that many organized activities, but the time just hanging out kind of blew past. I do have to say like my Midwestern friends, these guys did not let me win the poker tournament. (It's OK, my skill level makes it hard to do).
I also turned 29 over the weekend, but I've been so busy I didn't really celebrate the B-Day so I guess I will just continue to be 28.
Of course with all this stuff going on I haven't loaded a lot of details up here in the past week. Fortunately, Vicki, my mom, helped me by grabbing these capsules of some Baltimore attractions. Just Google any of them that catch your interest to find out more. I will get the right side of page with other tourism stuff cleaned up hopefully by Wednesday early a.m.
Tourism info for Baltimore:
www.ci.baltimore.md.us/
www.baltconvstr.com/
www.baltimore.org/
Inner Harbor
From breath-taking panoramic views of the skyline from the Observation Level of the World Trade Center to the up-close and personal experiences of street performances happening spontaneously at the waterfront, Baltimore’s Inner Harbor offers more to see and do than you might imagine and it’s all within walking distance!
Harborplace and the Gallery
Located in the heart of the Inner Harbor on Pratt Street, Harborplace and The Gallery offer unique shopping, diverse dining and a variety of entertainment right on the picturesque waterfront.
Baltimore Harbor Cruises - by Spirit Cruises
The Ladies (Bay Lady and Lady Baltimore) offer year-round lunch, brunch and dinner cruises, plus crab feasts, and moonlight tours in the summer. The Prince Charming offers narrated sight-seeing tours four times a day from April to October and all are available for private charter. Join them on a Thursday evening to experience Pirates of the Inner Harbor. It's the most interactive and unique family pirate show that ever set sail!
Maryland Science Center
Let your senses and your mind wander as you experience the numerous sights and hands-on activities at the Maryland Science Center. Featuring an IMAX theater and a planetarium, it's sure to please everyone.
Baltimore Aquarium
The National Aquarium in Baltimore houses sharks, dolphins, rays and tropical fish among the more than 16,000 creatures in naturalistic exhibits, including a walk-through rain forest, an exciting live-action dolphin show and a new Australian exhibit.
World Trade Center
Seeming to hover 405 feet directly over top of the harbor, the World Trade Center in Baltimore offers the best view of the city in every direction from the “Top of the World” Observation Level on the 27th floor. Constructed in 1977, its 32 floors make up the world's tallest equilateral 5-sided building.
Fort McHenry
A water-taxi ride away, you can learn about the Battle of Baltimore and the nation's history by visiting Fort McHenry. Fireworks conclude Flag Day and Defender's Day celebrations. And special events include living history weekends where the Fort McHenry Guard performs demonstrations.
Ed Kane's Water Taxi
For the perfect transportation in and around Baltimore's Inner Harbor, the water taxi is an affordable solution. Located on Lancaster Street, one price buys unlimited rides for the day and group discount rates are available. Native Baltimore residents and frequent city visitors often opt for the frequent floater annual pass.
Baltimore Maritime Museum
Located at Pier 3 and Pier 5, be sure to see the treasures of Inner Harbor by touring the USS Torsk, the USCGC Taney, the Lightship Chesapeake and more. Visit the Maritime Museum and you’ll receive a discount for the USS Constellation, the only Civil War ship still floating today.
Inner Harbor Restaurants
Elegant gourmet cuisine, ethnic foods from around the world and plenty of fresh seafood from Maryland's Chesapeake Bay abound. Come sample a taste of Baltimore at one of the many Inner Harbor restaurants.
ESPN Zone
The prototype restaurant/entertainment venue sits right in Baltimore's Inner Harbor. Great banks of video monitors teeming with live and vintage sportscasts--- There are more than 150 monitors, including a high definition big screen for optimal viewing --- accompany a menu that runs squarely American, you know, burgers and pizza for the kids, a Cobb or an Apple and Walnut Salad for mom, and ribs, meatloaf or a grilled pork chop for dad. Snag a padded lounger in "The Screening Room" to dine while watching the big game on a 16-foot video wall. Afterwards, head upstairs to "The Sports Arena" to work off the calories in a 10,000 square-foot wonderland of video and sports-simulation games, such as ESPN Baseball and NBA 2Night, along with air-hockey tables, batting cages and interactive basketball. The formula works; the place is usually mobbed.
Baltimore Orioles
A visit to Camden Yards is just minutes away and, if you're a true baseball fan, be sure to see the Baltimore Orioles Hall of Fame exhibit and the Babe Ruth Birthplace and Museum located nearby.You can also visit the Sports Legends Museum which offers 22,000 square feet of artifacts and interactive exhibits, transforming Camden Station into one of the most spectacular sports museums in America.
Baltimore Ravens
Get in on the spirit of the Purple and Black when you attend a Baltimore Ravens football game at the M&T Bank Stadium just a short distance from the Inner Harbor.
Power Plant Live!
A block away from Baltimore's Inner Harbor is Power Plant Live, a premier dining and entertainment district that features a variety of restaurants and nightclubs surrounding a common plaza. There is also outdoor seating which often features live performances.
Fort McHenry
Located off I-95, just southeast of Baltimore's Inner Harbor, the star-shaped Fort McHenry was designed by Frenchman Jean Foncin and named after James McHenry. McHenry served as Secretary of War from 1796 to 1800 and supported construction of the new fort.
During the War of 1812, the brick fort defended the Baltimore harbor and stopped a British advance into the city. Surrounded by water on three sides, Fort McHenry was far enough from Baltimore to provide protection without endangering the city. It was the valiant defense of the fort by 1,000 Americans that inspired Francis Scott Key, a lawyer and amateur poet, to compose the Star Spangled Banner, originally entitled Defense of Fort McHenry.
During the civil war, Fort McHenry was used as a military prison from 1861 to 1865. The National Park Service's Civil War Soldiers and Sailors system now allows visitors to search Fort McHenry's prison records online.
Administered by the National Park Service in 1933, Fort McHenry is the only area of the National Park System to be designated both a National Monument and Historic Shrine. Fort McHenry is open to the public year round and offers visitor programs and special events that highlight the park's history.
Baltimore Aquarium
Opened in 1981, the Baltimore Aquarium is world-famous and undoubtedly Maryland's leading tourist attraction. Whether you're an educator, a student or simply a visitor wanting to look at the magnificent exhibits, the Baltimore Aquarium in the Inner Harbor has a lot to offer.
Housing more than 16,000 creatures, the Baltimore Aquarium exhibits a variety of species in their naturalistic habitats. You'll find animals such as stingrays, sharks, sea turtles, bullfrogs, phytoplankton, monkeys, sloths, iguanas, puffins and thousands more. You can also catch an up-close view of dolphins as they leap and tumble with the Baltimore Aquarium trainers in the live-action Dolphin Show.
Baltimore Museums
American Visionary Art Museum
This national museum and education center highlights the outstanding original works of art created by intuitive, self-taught artists.
Attraction & Ticket Information | Phone: 410-244-1900
Baltimore & Ohio Railroad Museum
This fascinating, fun place for kids, families and lovers of history and American railroading features the most comprehensive collection in the Western Hemisphere.
Attraction & Ticket Information | Phone: 410-752-2490
Baltimore Museum of Art
Now offering permanent free general admission, Maryland's largest art museum features an internationally renowned collection of 19th century, modern and contemporary art.
Attraction & Ticket Information | Phone: 410-516-5589
Baltimore Opera Company
Enjoy fully staged grand operas featuring international singers, directors and conductors.
Attraction & Ticket Information | Phone: 410-727-6000
Baltimore Symphony Orchestra
Featuring award-winning Music Director Marin Alsop, the symphony performs classical, pops, family, summer and holiday concerts showcasing world-renowned artists.
Attraction & Ticket Information | Phone: 410-783-8000
CENTERSTAGE
This professional theater presents a variety of home-produced plays, from Shakespeare to August Wilson, Sondheim to Shaw.
Attraction & Ticket Information | Phone: 410-332-0033
Contemporary Museum
This unique museum promotes the art of our time as both educational tool and catalyst of progressive social change in Baltimore and surrounding areas.
Attraction & Ticket Information | 410-783-5720
Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine
This 18th-century brick fort defended Baltimore harbor during the War of 1812 and is the
birthplace of the American national anthem.
Attraction Information | 410-962-4290
Maryland Historical Society
Discover the history of Maryland and America at the home of the original manuscript of the"Star-Spangled Banner," Tench Tilghman's revolutionary war uniform and Benjamin Banneker's almanac.
Attraction & Ticket Information | Phone: 410-685-3750, x 321
The National Great Blacks In Wax Museum
America's first wax museum of African American history and culture features more than 100 life-size and lifelike wax figures.
Attraction & Ticket Information | Phone: 410-563-7809
Reginald F. Lewis Museum of Maryland African American History & Culture
This museum highlights the history and accomplishments of Maryland's African American community, featuring exhibitions, resource centers, a cafè and a gift shop.
Attraction & Ticket Information | Phone: 443-263-1801
The Walters Art Museum
Now offering permanent, free general admission, this world-class museum offers 55 centuries of art, including Egyptian mummies, medieval armor and 19th-century masterpieces.
Attraction & Ticket Information | Phone: 410-547-6000
The Lexington Market
400 W Lexington St. 8:30 -6 p.m. Monday - Saturday
Old as the nation itself, Lexington Market has been a wonderful Baltimore
tradition since 1782 at the original site it occupies today, on Lexington Street,
between Eutaw and Greene Streets.
OK, I am getting late for work. Go A.L. tonight! And props to Justin Morneau for winning the HR Derby despite no one cheering for him (I swear I was hard at work and only had it on in the background).
-- Nate
I didn't get anything done Friday or Saturday (although Allie, Karen (Allie's mom) and bridesmaid/wedding planning All-Star Lindsay were burning through tasks) because I was of course away for Bachelor Party: East Coast with a rowdy bunch (though not quite as rowdy as Towson).
Here's a photo of us outside Dogfish Head Brewery:
It was a fun weekend. We didn't do that many organized activities, but the time just hanging out kind of blew past. I do have to say like my Midwestern friends, these guys did not let me win the poker tournament. (It's OK, my skill level makes it hard to do).
I also turned 29 over the weekend, but I've been so busy I didn't really celebrate the B-Day so I guess I will just continue to be 28.
Of course with all this stuff going on I haven't loaded a lot of details up here in the past week. Fortunately, Vicki, my mom, helped me by grabbing these capsules of some Baltimore attractions. Just Google any of them that catch your interest to find out more. I will get the right side of page with other tourism stuff cleaned up hopefully by Wednesday early a.m.
Tourism info for Baltimore:
www.ci.baltimore.md.us/
www.baltconvstr.com/
www.baltimore.org/
Inner Harbor
From breath-taking panoramic views of the skyline from the Observation Level of the World Trade Center to the up-close and personal experiences of street performances happening spontaneously at the waterfront, Baltimore’s Inner Harbor offers more to see and do than you might imagine and it’s all within walking distance!
Harborplace and the Gallery
Located in the heart of the Inner Harbor on Pratt Street, Harborplace and The Gallery offer unique shopping, diverse dining and a variety of entertainment right on the picturesque waterfront.
Baltimore Harbor Cruises - by Spirit Cruises
The Ladies (Bay Lady and Lady Baltimore) offer year-round lunch, brunch and dinner cruises, plus crab feasts, and moonlight tours in the summer. The Prince Charming offers narrated sight-seeing tours four times a day from April to October and all are available for private charter. Join them on a Thursday evening to experience Pirates of the Inner Harbor. It's the most interactive and unique family pirate show that ever set sail!
Maryland Science Center
Let your senses and your mind wander as you experience the numerous sights and hands-on activities at the Maryland Science Center. Featuring an IMAX theater and a planetarium, it's sure to please everyone.
Baltimore Aquarium
The National Aquarium in Baltimore houses sharks, dolphins, rays and tropical fish among the more than 16,000 creatures in naturalistic exhibits, including a walk-through rain forest, an exciting live-action dolphin show and a new Australian exhibit.
World Trade Center
Seeming to hover 405 feet directly over top of the harbor, the World Trade Center in Baltimore offers the best view of the city in every direction from the “Top of the World” Observation Level on the 27th floor. Constructed in 1977, its 32 floors make up the world's tallest equilateral 5-sided building.
Fort McHenry
A water-taxi ride away, you can learn about the Battle of Baltimore and the nation's history by visiting Fort McHenry. Fireworks conclude Flag Day and Defender's Day celebrations. And special events include living history weekends where the Fort McHenry Guard performs demonstrations.
Ed Kane's Water Taxi
For the perfect transportation in and around Baltimore's Inner Harbor, the water taxi is an affordable solution. Located on Lancaster Street, one price buys unlimited rides for the day and group discount rates are available. Native Baltimore residents and frequent city visitors often opt for the frequent floater annual pass.
Baltimore Maritime Museum
Located at Pier 3 and Pier 5, be sure to see the treasures of Inner Harbor by touring the USS Torsk, the USCGC Taney, the Lightship Chesapeake and more. Visit the Maritime Museum and you’ll receive a discount for the USS Constellation, the only Civil War ship still floating today.
Inner Harbor Restaurants
Elegant gourmet cuisine, ethnic foods from around the world and plenty of fresh seafood from Maryland's Chesapeake Bay abound. Come sample a taste of Baltimore at one of the many Inner Harbor restaurants.
ESPN Zone
The prototype restaurant/entertainment venue sits right in Baltimore's Inner Harbor. Great banks of video monitors teeming with live and vintage sportscasts--- There are more than 150 monitors, including a high definition big screen for optimal viewing --- accompany a menu that runs squarely American, you know, burgers and pizza for the kids, a Cobb or an Apple and Walnut Salad for mom, and ribs, meatloaf or a grilled pork chop for dad. Snag a padded lounger in "The Screening Room" to dine while watching the big game on a 16-foot video wall. Afterwards, head upstairs to "The Sports Arena" to work off the calories in a 10,000 square-foot wonderland of video and sports-simulation games, such as ESPN Baseball and NBA 2Night, along with air-hockey tables, batting cages and interactive basketball. The formula works; the place is usually mobbed.
Baltimore Orioles
A visit to Camden Yards is just minutes away and, if you're a true baseball fan, be sure to see the Baltimore Orioles Hall of Fame exhibit and the Babe Ruth Birthplace and Museum located nearby.You can also visit the Sports Legends Museum which offers 22,000 square feet of artifacts and interactive exhibits, transforming Camden Station into one of the most spectacular sports museums in America.
Baltimore Ravens
Get in on the spirit of the Purple and Black when you attend a Baltimore Ravens football game at the M&T Bank Stadium just a short distance from the Inner Harbor.
Power Plant Live!
A block away from Baltimore's Inner Harbor is Power Plant Live, a premier dining and entertainment district that features a variety of restaurants and nightclubs surrounding a common plaza. There is also outdoor seating which often features live performances.
Fort McHenry
Located off I-95, just southeast of Baltimore's Inner Harbor, the star-shaped Fort McHenry was designed by Frenchman Jean Foncin and named after James McHenry. McHenry served as Secretary of War from 1796 to 1800 and supported construction of the new fort.
During the War of 1812, the brick fort defended the Baltimore harbor and stopped a British advance into the city. Surrounded by water on three sides, Fort McHenry was far enough from Baltimore to provide protection without endangering the city. It was the valiant defense of the fort by 1,000 Americans that inspired Francis Scott Key, a lawyer and amateur poet, to compose the Star Spangled Banner, originally entitled Defense of Fort McHenry.
During the civil war, Fort McHenry was used as a military prison from 1861 to 1865. The National Park Service's Civil War Soldiers and Sailors system now allows visitors to search Fort McHenry's prison records online.
Administered by the National Park Service in 1933, Fort McHenry is the only area of the National Park System to be designated both a National Monument and Historic Shrine. Fort McHenry is open to the public year round and offers visitor programs and special events that highlight the park's history.
Baltimore Aquarium
Opened in 1981, the Baltimore Aquarium is world-famous and undoubtedly Maryland's leading tourist attraction. Whether you're an educator, a student or simply a visitor wanting to look at the magnificent exhibits, the Baltimore Aquarium in the Inner Harbor has a lot to offer.
Housing more than 16,000 creatures, the Baltimore Aquarium exhibits a variety of species in their naturalistic habitats. You'll find animals such as stingrays, sharks, sea turtles, bullfrogs, phytoplankton, monkeys, sloths, iguanas, puffins and thousands more. You can also catch an up-close view of dolphins as they leap and tumble with the Baltimore Aquarium trainers in the live-action Dolphin Show.
Baltimore Museums
American Visionary Art Museum
This national museum and education center highlights the outstanding original works of art created by intuitive, self-taught artists.
Attraction & Ticket Information | Phone: 410-244-1900
Baltimore & Ohio Railroad Museum
This fascinating, fun place for kids, families and lovers of history and American railroading features the most comprehensive collection in the Western Hemisphere.
Attraction & Ticket Information | Phone: 410-752-2490
Baltimore Museum of Art
Now offering permanent free general admission, Maryland's largest art museum features an internationally renowned collection of 19th century, modern and contemporary art.
Attraction & Ticket Information | Phone: 410-516-5589
Baltimore Opera Company
Enjoy fully staged grand operas featuring international singers, directors and conductors.
Attraction & Ticket Information | Phone: 410-727-6000
Baltimore Symphony Orchestra
Featuring award-winning Music Director Marin Alsop, the symphony performs classical, pops, family, summer and holiday concerts showcasing world-renowned artists.
Attraction & Ticket Information | Phone: 410-783-8000
CENTERSTAGE
This professional theater presents a variety of home-produced plays, from Shakespeare to August Wilson, Sondheim to Shaw.
Attraction & Ticket Information | Phone: 410-332-0033
Contemporary Museum
This unique museum promotes the art of our time as both educational tool and catalyst of progressive social change in Baltimore and surrounding areas.
Attraction & Ticket Information | 410-783-5720
Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine
This 18th-century brick fort defended Baltimore harbor during the War of 1812 and is the
birthplace of the American national anthem.
Attraction Information | 410-962-4290
Maryland Historical Society
Discover the history of Maryland and America at the home of the original manuscript of the"Star-Spangled Banner," Tench Tilghman's revolutionary war uniform and Benjamin Banneker's almanac.
Attraction & Ticket Information | Phone: 410-685-3750, x 321
The National Great Blacks In Wax Museum
America's first wax museum of African American history and culture features more than 100 life-size and lifelike wax figures.
Attraction & Ticket Information | Phone: 410-563-7809
Reginald F. Lewis Museum of Maryland African American History & Culture
This museum highlights the history and accomplishments of Maryland's African American community, featuring exhibitions, resource centers, a cafè and a gift shop.
Attraction & Ticket Information | Phone: 443-263-1801
The Walters Art Museum
Now offering permanent, free general admission, this world-class museum offers 55 centuries of art, including Egyptian mummies, medieval armor and 19th-century masterpieces.
Attraction & Ticket Information | Phone: 410-547-6000
The Lexington Market
400 W Lexington St. 8:30 -6 p.m. Monday - Saturday
Old as the nation itself, Lexington Market has been a wonderful Baltimore
tradition since 1782 at the original site it occupies today, on Lexington Street,
between Eutaw and Greene Streets.
OK, I am getting late for work. Go A.L. tonight! And props to Justin Morneau for winning the HR Derby despite no one cheering for him (I swear I was hard at work and only had it on in the background).
-- Nate
Thursday, July 10, 2008
Countdown ... 22 days, and almost 21
Hi all --
Sorry not to get all the tourist info up, but trust me it is being collected with a firm posting deadline of Monday.
Best news of all is the plumber was out today and got our new sink and vanity in. We love it. Pictures soon.
It's the end of night and I'm dead tired before heading off to Rehboth for the weekend. We'll be back Sunday night with a thorough post and the beginnings of tourist info.
Last two nights have been softball for me, but the old Nighthawks fell in both of them, including a 6-5 heartbreaker on Weds. Dropped 22-10 to undefeated team tonight. The Homerun Hunters will have to bounce back on Sunday as they go for the 2-seed in the upcoming playoffs.
Later,
Nate
Sorry not to get all the tourist info up, but trust me it is being collected with a firm posting deadline of Monday.
Best news of all is the plumber was out today and got our new sink and vanity in. We love it. Pictures soon.
It's the end of night and I'm dead tired before heading off to Rehboth for the weekend. We'll be back Sunday night with a thorough post and the beginnings of tourist info.
Last two nights have been softball for me, but the old Nighthawks fell in both of them, including a 6-5 heartbreaker on Weds. Dropped 22-10 to undefeated team tonight. The Homerun Hunters will have to bounce back on Sunday as they go for the 2-seed in the upcoming playoffs.
Later,
Nate
Wednesday, July 9, 2008
Countdown ... 23 days
23 is Allie's favorite number. I associate it too much with Michael Jordan and LeBron James, so I can't stand it.
Hopefully that doesn't mean I'm in store for a bad day. So far, it hasn't started out as bad as yesterday, when I went to take out the trash and found that someone broke into my backyard and stole my Redskins tailgating chairs (and their carrying bags!)
Guess I know something to add to our registry. I also think I may need to add a power saw, after spending about an hour sawing boards for the bathroom floor yesterday.
On a positive note, the plumber is coming Thursday morning to change out our bathroom vanity cabinet, which means if things go right the bathroom should be completely finished by next Tuesday.
I also found out yesterday that our caterers/event hosts, Wickeys, have been bought out. The new company is honoring our contract though, so I guess there's no worries. Allie is going to meet with them to finalize details on Friday.
Last night we were working on music and chose some classical music for the processional. However, we are thinking of going with something contemporary for the recessional — we just can't decide what.
Got any suggestions? Post them here.
I only have two full days of work left this week before I'm off to Rehoboth for a bachelor's weekend, so that's exciting. It may not be the most organized event ever, but we should still have fun. We are going on a tour of the Dogfish Head Brewery on Saturday, which should be a highlight.
If you're in Maryland, stay dry today!
--Nate
Hopefully that doesn't mean I'm in store for a bad day. So far, it hasn't started out as bad as yesterday, when I went to take out the trash and found that someone broke into my backyard and stole my Redskins tailgating chairs (and their carrying bags!)
Guess I know something to add to our registry. I also think I may need to add a power saw, after spending about an hour sawing boards for the bathroom floor yesterday.
On a positive note, the plumber is coming Thursday morning to change out our bathroom vanity cabinet, which means if things go right the bathroom should be completely finished by next Tuesday.
I also found out yesterday that our caterers/event hosts, Wickeys, have been bought out. The new company is honoring our contract though, so I guess there's no worries. Allie is going to meet with them to finalize details on Friday.
Last night we were working on music and chose some classical music for the processional. However, we are thinking of going with something contemporary for the recessional — we just can't decide what.
Got any suggestions? Post them here.
I only have two full days of work left this week before I'm off to Rehoboth for a bachelor's weekend, so that's exciting. It may not be the most organized event ever, but we should still have fun. We are going on a tour of the Dogfish Head Brewery on Saturday, which should be a highlight.
If you're in Maryland, stay dry today!
--Nate
Monday, July 7, 2008
Countdown ... 25 days
Hard to believe that we'll be married in less than four weeks. Even harder to believe is the number of small details that still have to get fine-tuned over the next two weeks.
The past two weeks have also been quite a whirlwind. Two Saturdays ago, June 21, we landed in the Quad Cities where my old reporter buddies Jim Butts and Andy Walters picked us up at the airport and drove us to the couples shower my parents were hosting in Waterloo.
We decided to stop for lunch in Iowa City, but we couldn't get downtown because of the flooding. Instead we headed to Coralville and stopped at one of my all-time favorite places, Pancheros. My burrito was good but the set-up had been converted to make it eerily similar to Chipoltle. I searched The Burrito Blog for a while, but couldn't find out if they are now the same company. In other burrito-related new, Qdoba e-mailed me a certificate for a free birthday burrito (I'm July 12), so that was good news.
Once we arrived in Waterloo things were really popping. We had a pretty good turnout at the party and also excellent food (props to everyone who helped).
It was nice to spend time with some relatives and friends who I hadn't seen in a few months, even though the time always go by so quick in those situations. My cousin Kim, on a whirlwind tour through the Upper Midwest, was kind enough to take photos for free.
Here's one of me attempting to pin Allie without stabbing her:
I also got to meet Matt and Erica's daughter, Lana, for the first time:
Later on, a good 'ol wiffle ball game broke out as well. Moreau won round 1, and I think Kent won round 2. Looks like my Mom's smack talk really got into Andy's head.
Later that night was my first bachelor party, organized by Matt Daddy Schafer. After a day of drinking beer, we had to freshen our breaths with some smooth shots of peppermint schnapps (Walters loves this stuff)
I wrapped up the night by going from the chip leader to out of the money in the poker tournament. Oh well, at least there was free beer.
The next day was a little bit low-key, but Allie found a necklace and matching earrings for the wedding. Meanwhile, I scored a new pair of shoes and a Northern Iowa Panthers basketball jersey that has come in quite handy the past few hot days.
On Monday we were back to the city, but of course our flight was delayed. We didn't get home until after midnight to Captain Toes and Joey, a pair of cats who were none too happy. Then we were right back off to work and they really let us know how they feel.
During the party. my family and others had given the shower a "pair" theme, dressing up different couples like these little fellas.
We brought some of them home, but Joey took none too kindly to the other dressed up brides. Seems she wants to be the top female in the house (after Allie).
She may look innocent:
but we believe she is responsible for this bride skunk losing its tail.
We also used our weekend in Iowa to pick out preferred songs for the DJ, but when I went to load them up today it looked like they had been erased. I have one idea about how to get them back though, so hopefully it's not back to the drawing board.
When we got back it was still nose to the grindstone time. As you've read earlier we met with our photographer on Tuesday and decided to risk it and go for the outdoor photos at the Washington Monument. The next day, I was working with our hotel manager to make sure that people were getting the rooms reserved by the time they could no longer be held.
Some good news on that count ... as long as you can still get a room at the Plaza Hotel, the lower Sandstrom-McLeod wedding rate will be made available.
As you can see, there is little rest for a procrastinating planning couple like us. On that Thursday, we took a nice leisurely trip to rural Virginia where family friend Suzy helped us get a great deal at Wollom Gardens, where she works.
We also met with florist Cammie, of Like Water for Tulips,who helped us pick out some great bouquets and centerpieces. I don't want to give it all away, but we some of the more prominently featured flowers include dahlias
hydrangea
As if all that time thinking about flowers would make you passive, Allie proved otherwise. As our softball team was about to be one girl short on that Thursday, Allie stepped up and showed true Nighthawk spirit. In a match-up with the rival Firestix, bad blood again began to boil. The Firestix complained about every call, and when Allie used her speed to leg out an infield single their third basemen got so mad that the umpire kicked him out. He looked like this:
Alas, the Nighthawks fell short 15-11, but still it was a good effort.
Well, of course with all this work on wedding planning I don't have too much time to spend blogging. This week's main agenda is to finish bachelor party II planning on Tuesday, have thorough attraction info on Wednesday and wrap-up music by Thursday. We have also settled just about all the details for the ceremony, which will be nice to have finished.
Hopefully I'll be back up here Tuesday night, but faithful readers know I have not always been that diligent. I am trying though.
Nate
The past two weeks have also been quite a whirlwind. Two Saturdays ago, June 21, we landed in the Quad Cities where my old reporter buddies Jim Butts and Andy Walters picked us up at the airport and drove us to the couples shower my parents were hosting in Waterloo.
We decided to stop for lunch in Iowa City, but we couldn't get downtown because of the flooding. Instead we headed to Coralville and stopped at one of my all-time favorite places, Pancheros. My burrito was good but the set-up had been converted to make it eerily similar to Chipoltle. I searched The Burrito Blog for a while, but couldn't find out if they are now the same company. In other burrito-related new, Qdoba e-mailed me a certificate for a free birthday burrito (I'm July 12), so that was good news.
Once we arrived in Waterloo things were really popping. We had a pretty good turnout at the party and also excellent food (props to everyone who helped).
It was nice to spend time with some relatives and friends who I hadn't seen in a few months, even though the time always go by so quick in those situations. My cousin Kim, on a whirlwind tour through the Upper Midwest, was kind enough to take photos for free.
Here's one of me attempting to pin Allie without stabbing her:
I also got to meet Matt and Erica's daughter, Lana, for the first time:
Later on, a good 'ol wiffle ball game broke out as well. Moreau won round 1, and I think Kent won round 2. Looks like my Mom's smack talk really got into Andy's head.
Later that night was my first bachelor party, organized by Matt Daddy Schafer. After a day of drinking beer, we had to freshen our breaths with some smooth shots of peppermint schnapps (Walters loves this stuff)
I wrapped up the night by going from the chip leader to out of the money in the poker tournament. Oh well, at least there was free beer.
The next day was a little bit low-key, but Allie found a necklace and matching earrings for the wedding. Meanwhile, I scored a new pair of shoes and a Northern Iowa Panthers basketball jersey that has come in quite handy the past few hot days.
On Monday we were back to the city, but of course our flight was delayed. We didn't get home until after midnight to Captain Toes and Joey, a pair of cats who were none too happy. Then we were right back off to work and they really let us know how they feel.
During the party. my family and others had given the shower a "pair" theme, dressing up different couples like these little fellas.
We brought some of them home, but Joey took none too kindly to the other dressed up brides. Seems she wants to be the top female in the house (after Allie).
She may look innocent:
but we believe she is responsible for this bride skunk losing its tail.
We also used our weekend in Iowa to pick out preferred songs for the DJ, but when I went to load them up today it looked like they had been erased. I have one idea about how to get them back though, so hopefully it's not back to the drawing board.
When we got back it was still nose to the grindstone time. As you've read earlier we met with our photographer on Tuesday and decided to risk it and go for the outdoor photos at the Washington Monument. The next day, I was working with our hotel manager to make sure that people were getting the rooms reserved by the time they could no longer be held.
Some good news on that count ... as long as you can still get a room at the Plaza Hotel, the lower Sandstrom-McLeod wedding rate will be made available.
As you can see, there is little rest for a procrastinating planning couple like us. On that Thursday, we took a nice leisurely trip to rural Virginia where family friend Suzy helped us get a great deal at Wollom Gardens, where she works.
We also met with florist Cammie, of Like Water for Tulips,who helped us pick out some great bouquets and centerpieces. I don't want to give it all away, but we some of the more prominently featured flowers include dahlias
hydrangea
As if all that time thinking about flowers would make you passive, Allie proved otherwise. As our softball team was about to be one girl short on that Thursday, Allie stepped up and showed true Nighthawk spirit. In a match-up with the rival Firestix, bad blood again began to boil. The Firestix complained about every call, and when Allie used her speed to leg out an infield single their third basemen got so mad that the umpire kicked him out. He looked like this:
Alas, the Nighthawks fell short 15-11, but still it was a good effort.
Well, of course with all this work on wedding planning I don't have too much time to spend blogging. This week's main agenda is to finish bachelor party II planning on Tuesday, have thorough attraction info on Wednesday and wrap-up music by Thursday. We have also settled just about all the details for the ceremony, which will be nice to have finished.
Hopefully I'll be back up here Tuesday night, but faithful readers know I have not always been that diligent. I am trying though.
Nate
Thursday, July 3, 2008
We're no poetry critics
Allie and I have read a lot of love poems in the last week, but nothing has struck us as perfect for our main reading during the ceremony.
So, I'm launching a contest. Please send in any suggested readings you have either to Nate via e-mail or by posting them by clicking on the "comments" link on the bottom of this post. If we select your suggested reading, you will win an awesome (as defined by Nate) prize.
Void in Massachusetts — those bastards.
So, I'm launching a contest. Please send in any suggested readings you have either to Nate via e-mail or by posting them by clicking on the "comments" link on the bottom of this post. If we select your suggested reading, you will win an awesome (as defined by Nate) prize.
Void in Massachusetts — those bastards.
Saturday, June 28, 2008
--Reminder--Book hotel now!
Hi everyone. Just wanted to remind people that the reservation block at our hotel expires on July 3 (a.k.a this week). If you would like to stay there at the discounted rate, you have to book the room by then. Detailed instructions are available on the right side of the page.
It's been kind of a whirlwind week otherwise, with us taking a trip to Virginia to pick out flowers, possibly coming up with a honeymoon plan and Allie getting an opponent to get kicked out of our Thursday softball game.
I'm going to post a week in review on Sunday morning, 'cause right now I have to jump in the shower, get a haircut and head to work. :(
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