Kristen & Jay

New Year's

2009-01-02T09:01:23Z

Happy 2009! We had a great time this year! Not too much and not too little--just right! On New Year's Eve, I made reservations to a tapas house in Naperville but cancelled it after Kristen thought it would be romantic if I made her dinner. Now, I can't cook but I love to grill. So, we picked up lobster and filet mignon and I fired up the ceramic altar with a smile (it's open all year around our house). We had some ancient vine Zinfandel with dinner and a little bubbly at the ball drop. It was nice to stay home. I don't know if it's because Iam getting over being sick or if I am getting old but I am all about the relaxation lately.

On New Year's Day, we went over to Kristen's parents house. (Even Kozmo made the trip and loved getting all the attention.) They have a tradition of having the family over on New Year's day. But, they have been in Vegas since just after Christmas and the basement flooded because of the recent snow/ice melt we had. So, I thought it was "iffy" but everything went along just fine - many thanks to Jonathan who was the emergency water remover/restoration expert. Thanks to him, the Klimek bar was back in business with a wide variety of drinks, chips, dips, buffet selections and desserts (I picked a bad day to start a diet - of course I changed the start date to Jan. 2nd after about 5 minutes into the party - so much for will power). We watched the Hawks lose 6-4 to the Red Wings at Wrigley Field. It's too bad they didn't get a "W" but it was still cool to watch as we hosted the annual outdoor game. I wonder where it will be next year? I bet Buffalo and Chicago will get their fair share of hosting opportunities. We ended the night playing some games - Pictionary Man and Catchphrase. It was guys against girls and the ladies won both by a narrow margin. Although I think we will all agree that the guys had the tougher words!!! ;)

New family member

2008-12-27T05:12:59Z

This posting is to announce the arrival of our newest family member, Kozmo! He was a gift to me from Jay for Christmas. He is a soon-to-be 12 week old shih tzu puppy with beautiful hazel-green eyes. Jay and I had been looking at puppies forever, but never quite seemed the right time. We heavily looked last Sunday online at different breeds, the rescue society, shih tzu rescue, etc, but never quite found the right one. Monday when I got home from work, there he was, donning an adorable red bow! We have enjoyed the past week with him and "learning" along with him how to care for a new puppy. Actually, he is doing really well with the potty training, and he loves his crate. We sort of feel it is a little too easy! The other good news is that we had our first vet checkup today and all is well, except for a minor case of kennel cough. We couldn't be more excited and can't wait for everyone to meet him!

Engaged bridesmaid!!

2008-12-27T04:12:00Z

I was waiting to post the good news until after Christmas, but I wanted to share the exciting news that my good friend, co worker, and bridesmaid, Ara, got engaged last weekend!! I cannot be more happy and excited for her (and her fiance, Justin)!! Turns out that Jay had known about the little secret for several weeks, and was secretly plotting a celebratory night-cap with Justin, but had to keep it a secret from me knowing that we are so close and spend most every day together, and would be hard for me to keep quiet (and he was right). Justin sent Ara on a journey in a limo around the city to some of their most special places shared together, ending with a proposal on one knee on the corner where they re-met in Chicago. They then had dinner at the Signature Room in the John Hancock building, and we met them in the lounge upstairs (also a surprise to Ara). Then all four of us took a carriage ride (with champagne, of course) together through the Gold Coast. It was a chilly, but great time. What a great night - what great friends!

Bling bling...we got the rings!

2008-12-15T10:12:21Z

Jay and I are being so productive, huh?! To be honest, I hadn't planned on us really getting too much done before the holidays, but we really have been doing well with our planning. All in all, I think things have gone smoothly because we aren't in too much of a time crunch, which has been nice.

Our ring search began last weekend when we took a trip to Robbins Bros where my engagement ring is from. In order for my warranty through Robbins Bros to be valid, I need to have it inspected every 6 months. I actually kind of like going - I get a chance to have the prongs inspected and they shine it up beautifully (what girl doesn't love a sparkly ring?!) It was hard to believe it has already been a year since Jay purchased it. The gentleman that helped him with the selection was actually there, and it was nice to he remembered Jay and the whole Breckenridge proposal. We started looking at bands there while we waited. Of course there is one that goes to my engagement ring, but there was some play within the designers collection. I settled on one I liked and Jay was undecided between two (after almost getting several size 10s stuck on his finger - he learned he is NOT a size 10). We had them write down our selections with the possibility of us returning. We traveled across the street to Jared. There we also found one I liked, and Jay was tied between two. Though their prices were a bit more reasonable, the sales people we dealt with were a little like "used car salesmen" (nothing against them), but after a few lines like, "Why aren't you walking out of here today with this ring?" 'You need to take this ring with you today - it was made for you"...I was a little turned off.

Every year my company has a wonderful Christmas party downtown. Jay and I have kind of made it our tradition to get a hotel room downtown the night of the party (no drinking and driving) and we get to do some Christmas stuff Saturday or Sunday on our own. Since we would be downtown Saturday, we thought we would hit "jeweler's row". This was a place I was very unfamiliar with. Our friend's Mary and Jack recommended their jeweler there, as well as several other suggestions from patients of mine. So, Jay and I got downtown around 2:00, checked in, and walked to the end of the 3 block area. We passed by a "jewelry mall" next to New York Jewelers (was going to be my pick) and it was crowded so Jay suggested we go in. Jay, of course, got stuck holding the door for several people and I walked in. Instantly the lady at the first counter asked what we were looking for and asked to see my ring. Before Jay even walked in the door, I had a band on my finger. Again, somewhat easy to choose for me, and Jay picked out one or two he liked. As I looked around, I realized the "store" was really a "mall" with each counter being a different jewelry store - imagine a jewelry flea market! It was really unusual, but after I realized this, I figured we should look around a bit more. Our next stop was another jeweler that did not have half as busy a counter. Raluca (very tall, Ralph Lauren looking model) helped us here. She took out a few rings for me to look at, and even took out a book of rings they had designed. She steamed my ring clean and matched it up to a beautiful Tacori style ring. I had settled on this one - I loved it! She then took out several trays for Jay to look at. When we first looked at Robbins Bros, I remembered Jay trying on a square ring and kind of liking it. I immediately spotted one of these from Gelin Abaci (famous for his tension set engagement rings) and he tried it on. He loved it too! (seeing as how Jay is not a jewelry wearing person, and loses everything, we needed it to be fit properly and be comfortable so he will never take it off!) Jay was able to wheel and deal on the pricing (I am terrible at this and often ruin it for Jay). We ended up walking out paying half of what my ring was marked for BOTH of them. I was really happy! (Everyone should know I love sales!) They are ordered and will be in in about 2 weeks! Afterward, though a very rainy and windy day, Jay and I walked to the outdoor German market set up for Christmas and shared some hot spiced wine and German Christmas beer. It was a great way to celebrate our new purchase!

Maui Bound!

2008-12-13T12:12:47Z

Can you say Mai Tai? We are going to Maui!!!

One of the best parts of wedding planning is making the honeymoon arrangements! Being a professional traveler, I took the pleasure of securing the flights departing on Memorial Day. We are going to spending time touring wineries in Napa/Sonoma Valley and then shopping and dining in San Francisco. We can leave our passports at home because Wednesday morning we fly over the Pacific to our most exotic state of Hawaii. It must be the most popular honeymoon spot in the world for a reason right?! We are planning to spend the whole trip on Maui, just relaxing and taking in the beauty. I went to Oahu on business but neither of us have been to our destination island. The Westin Maui Resort and Spa, Kaanapali will be our home in paradise. After getting lei'ed, we want to embrace all that Hawaiian culture has to offer, even including the traditional Luau traditions. Kristen will hula with the ladies while I spin tiki torches with the guys! This will be the first trip for our "Ohana" (family). A lot of people are giving us tips. One of the most suggested is the volcano bike tour. It starts REALLY early (~3am) but that should be a treat! We both like to experiment and try new dishes so the colorful sushi and seafood offerings should be quite an adventure. I need to review my notes from my scuba diving certification class in high school. Hopefully Kristen will take the quick calss and join me for a dive or two. Well, I'm sure I will be writing up a full report when we return. For now, Mahalo for reading our blogs.

Aloha!

Flower Guy

2008-12-12T08:12:31Z

I don't remember what the flowers are called but they look nice. I gotta say, the floral business has some serious potential!

This guy knew his stuff and how to run a business. I liked his "no BS" approach because I would not have been comfortable with a razzle-dazzle presentation from a flamboyant decorator dancing around (think of me as Steve Martin in Father of the Bride). That is what I expected! But it wasn't all that bad. Kristen has been very excited since we ordered. I only wish I could use the flowers over the next decade on an 'as needed' basis; Valentine's Day, Sweetest Day, birthdays, special occasions, etc. But, that's the way it goes. I suppose when you compare to Elton John's flower budget, we did alright!

Florist Done!

2008-12-12T07:12:06Z

Jay and I traveled Tuesday night in the blustery-snowy Chicago weather to meet again with a florist I had narrowed our choices down to. I know I commented that we were on the search for a florist a bit ago. It really was not too difficult - I just wanted to make sure we went with someone I was comfortable with, experienced, willing to work with us, and within a "budget" of course. I met with this particular florist a few weeks ago with my Mom and we really liked him. His name is David, and the Florist is the Enchanted Florist in Orland/Palos (I never know where the lines are drawn). When my mom and I met him, he was very particular about numbers of attendees, church flowers, hall flowers, cake flowers, etc. He had everything computerized and was able to give us a printout with everything we selected and prices right there. We thought this was stupendous, seeing as how the last florist we met with at least 3 weeks ago still has not called me back with a quote. Anyhow, Tuesday was Jay's chance to meet him. (I will let him comment in particular about his experience) It was great having him there and sharing with him the work that David does, choosing our centerpieces, picking out the color of the groomsmen flowers (I think it made Jay feel like he had some say in the matter!), and seeing the different flowers all layed out (David ordered the flowers we discussed previously in many tones, shapes and sizes to have a clearer idea of what they would look like all together). So, by the time the hour was over, we had narrowed down our choices, finalized times, signed the paperwork, and got a great deal on the price (thanks to my Jay!) So....the flowers are done! I can't wait to see what they look like on our special day!

Bridesmaid dresses....ordered!

2008-12-07T07:12:10Z

Yesterday I took a trip back to the Crystal Bride with my junior bridesmaid, Natalie, and my bridesmaid, Mary, for some final measurements to get the dresses ordered! Downtown Geneva is decorated so cutely for the holidays and we had the pleasure of walking around a bit afterward through the falling snow, and visiting their famous Graham's Chocolate Shop for some hot cocoa. I am so excited the dresses are finally ordered, and mine is expected to ship February 2nd!

Thanksgiving

2008-12-07T07:12:12Z

Jay and I had the fortunate pleasure of entertaining his parents for Thanksgiving. It was a tight squeeze into the condo, but we all made it. Jay's parents drove in from Cleveland on Wednesday and we spent Thanksgiving dinner at my family's house with my parents, brother, and Grandma. Grandma was very excited to meet these two wonderful people that are so special to Jay, and who I have been raving about for months. We had wonderful food and dessert and enjoyed a few games of Left, Right, Center (my Grandma's favorite party game!). We talked and laughed quite a bit and even got to sample our wedding favor that is currently being made by Jay's parents (yet another surprise!) It was a wonderful holiday, and I look forward to sharing many more to come.

Menu selected

2008-12-06T01:12:27Z

A couple of weeks ago, Kristen and I met her parents at the reception hall to sample the goods. We selected a menu with rather quick consensus. We tried all sorts of items and it was great to pass things around and really get a taste of everything. We tried appetizers, starches, veggies (yuck, either way you slice it), meats, soups, salads, and desserts. We even tried a selection of wines. I can't tell you what we selected, but I can tell you it is pretty darn tasty. I can tell you that there will be a choice between chicken, beef, or fish on our RSVP cards. Kristen and I wanted to give our guests a selection, and after a stirring homily one Sunday from our minister, Fr. Griffin, we decided giving guests two meats on a plate would be rather wasteful with all the other "goodies" they will have throughout the evening. So, one more thing down - about 800 more to go!

Engagement Proofs

2008-10-23T05:10:11Z

Our engagement proofs have been posted! Yeah! Due to the nature of the email, if you are interested in viewing, feel free to comment to this post or shoot Jay or me an email and we will send you the login info. They will only be up for two weeks, so if you would like to view them, let us know as soon as possible. ;-)

flowers, cake, invites

2008-10-23T05:10:26Z

A quick update...we are in the thick of "minor details". Jay and I wanted to get as much done as possible on the front end, before the holidays hit, and we definitely have. Now we are starting to tackle the "minor-er" details such as cake, flowers, invites. I went a few weeks ago with my Mom looking through wedding invitations. Though, I know you can order them online, and they may be less costly that way, I kind of wanted to thumb through some books at the paper factory to see how they look in person, and the texture of the paper. I didn't get too far on that end, but will hopefully be able to get an idea situated before the holidays.

Another update is flower searching. I kind of have an idea of the types and color I am looking for. I think now it is just a matter of finding someone I am comfortable with, affordable (afterall, they will die), and available on our date. My Mom and I met with a florist last week near our favorite restaurant in Burr Ridge, and she was very nice and very helpful. I had no idea how many people are suppose to get flowers on your wedding day! It all adds up....bride, groom, bridesmaids, groomsmen, moms, dads, grandparents, godparents, readers, etc. The list goes on! It was kind of fun sitting there counting up all the people that will be part of our day, since I really haven't thought about it since we started planning. So, a few more florists to meet with, and then I think we will have one picked out.

As for cakes, we are still undecided on what to do. Jay and I are not huge into cakes, baking them, buying them, eating them, etc. We are looking at some alternatives, but haven't come up with anything concrete yet. This may be another surprise! Stay tuned to find out!

Engagement Pictures

2008-10-14T09:10:48Z

How about that Jay...ask and you shall receive. ;-) So, now that the pre-cana is take care of, I thought I would fill you in on our engagement pictures. We had this service included with the package we booked from our photographer, so we definitely thought we would take advantage of it. I was hoping for a beautiful Fall day to take advantage of the beautiful colors in Chicago, and that is exactly what we got. God answered our prayers, and in fact, gave us an 82 degree, sunny day. After a few weeks of debating our attire (which ended up being a little warm for the day), we got ready in the morning after mass, and headed to a park on the border of Lisle/Naperville. The photographer doing the pictures is not the photographer for our wedding day, so we were a little nervous (thinking they would send a "rookie" for these pics, but he turned out to be a VP of the company, Jerry!) We had a great time! He was hilarious - great at making us laugh and smile. It has been a very long time since having my picture taken professionally like that, Jay too, but we really felt at ease. Jerry paraded us around the little pond in the park, taking pictures on the grass, by the trees, on a bridge, by a gazebo, etc. We took individual pics, together pics, gazing pics, walking pics, and of course, kissing pics. Jay laughed and said, "I don't think I have ever stared at you in the eyes so much in one day." It was pretty funny. By the time the hour was over, we felt like we had a really good session, and cannot wait to see how they turn out! I will keep you posted!

Pre-Cana Class

2008-10-14T08:10:12Z

So I'm behind on blogging again. Kristen touched on this in her last blog but I said I would cover it so here it is:

Pre-Cana, the preparation for the wedding feast. Apparently all of you have heard the story at mass every year, but it was another one of those things that I missed because I could not hear in church all those years. (By the way, I am working on a project that I have been thinking about for quite some time now. It is an expansion of my research into assistive listening in church. More on that later...).

We expected something completely different at pre-cana. I thought it would be a priest telling us how to be married, and, I was a bit turned off by the fact that someone without experience would be giving us this advice. Don't get me wrong, Father Griffin, the priest who will marry us, is awesome. He is so practical and to the point. He has great analogies and pretty funny jokes to go along with his messages. Anyway, it turned out to be a married couple who has been teaching this class for 20+ years. I knew there would be other "student" couples there, but they kept just coming in! There must have been 40+ couples in the room. My first thought when we were getting situated with our coffee and cookies is that this is definately a high risk environment with all of the engagement rings around. But, it's not like we were in a bad neighborhood or anything, just kind of funny.

We had a workbook that covered everything you need to know about life and living with your spouse. Seriously, it all comes in a single book put out by the Archdiocese of Chicago. I am waiting for the answers to the Book of Life. I hope it is coming in the mail soon! Seriously though, there was some good stuff in it. We tore the perforated pages on various exercises and learned a lot about each other, mainly that we are more alike that we previously thought. How about that! Of course there are SOME differences (spending, budgeting, and bill paying for example) but that's to be expected and probably what makes us attracted to each other. You gotta have a little spice!

Kristen was hoping for more religious aspects to the day. I was okay with the way it was. I think if it were a weekend retreat, then there should have been more prayer. But, it was almost like a crash course and not too much time for reflection. But, we have our book and will work on it more on our own time. I'm just glad there was not a test, and that we "passed" at the end of the day!

Birthday and updates

2008-10-12T07:10:28Z

I feel like it has been a bit of time since we posted anything, so I thought I would put up a few comments. Last weekend, Jay and I took our pre-cana class at Queen of Martyrs in Oak Lawn. Jay promised to post on it - with a little nudging, the details of that should be up soon. Regardless, it was a great time - lots of writing and reflecting. It was kind of nice to see on paper, on several occasions, why Jay and I are meant to be. :-) Next on the planning.....I have a few appointments set up with florists in the next few weeks. I will definitely keep you posted!

Other than that, I celebrated my 27th Birthday on Wednesday. :-) Really, it was more of a week of birthday celebrating - starting Sunday with a Great America trip and dinner with my cousin and her family, lunch with Jay on Monday at Tuscany (one of my favorite restaurants), dinner and shopping on Tuesday with my dear friend Mary, coming home to a condo full of balloons and a delicious cake baked by Jay on Wednesday, dinner with my parents and Grandma on Thursday, and dinner with good friends at another favorite restaurant (Cooper's Hawk) on Friday. All of that was in the midst of lots of text messaging, emails, ecards, cards, and well-wishes. Once you get past 21, in my opinion, every birthday just seems like another day, but it never ceases to amaze me the love I feel around them - so many friends and family members thinking about me. I realize how truly blessed and fortunate I am. Thank you everyone!