8 Things I'm Glad We Did For Our Wedding

Today is my two year anniversary of marriage to my awesome husband, Chris. And as with most annual celebrations I can't help but to think back and reminisce about the day. To anyone planning a wedding on their own, it's tough, though extremely rewarding. We tried to be as realistic as possible, and kept reminding ourselves that we don't have to conform to traditions, and that this was just one giant party. I'm not going to give a play by play of the planning process, but rather share the highlights of things I'm happy we did. Perhaps a little perspective for any future "big party" you might have.

1. We set our priorities - Right from the get go we knew we wanted have great food and drink and good music. It seems simple enough, but because we were working with a tight budget, we allotted most of our money to a fabulous "classy BBQ" caterer, Tommy Gunns. The buffet style food was a hit, guests raved about the food. You don't need a sit down meal with a steak option to be delicious! Of course, we also wanted an open bar because anything else is just not right. And after we agreed on what was most important us, the rest of the budget fell into place.

2. We made our own playlist - Our music component cost zero dollars because from January to October of 2011 we crafted our entire playlist, from cocktail hour to departure. There's nothing like loving every single song that's played on your wedding day. We used a laptop and a PA system, as well as our friend, and Chris' former band mate, who played emcee. The biggest floor filler of the evening? Chumbawumba, I Get Knocked Down. Go figure.

3. We incorporated friends and family - We're extraordinarily lucky to be in the company of so many talented friends and family, and we did our best to exploit that! As I mentioned, we had Chris' former band mate emcee, we had a friend do the photography, Chris' mom expertly did the entire bridal party's hair and makeup, Chris' uncle supplied us with his amazing homemade bottled hot sauce, "Botto's Bitchin'" as favors, and lastly our friend, Sean, added a trumpet solo onto our first dance song. Did I already say we're lucky? Everyone, especially our super bridal party, was ready and willing to help us set up the space the day before. Having friends and family help us in so many ways made the day that more special and uniquely "us".

4. I bought a dress that I was comfortable in - This probably goes against all womanly instincts, but I opted for a dress that was flattering, yes, but I was comfortable in it. I didn't have to re-position things, I didn't have to worry about eating too much and sucking in my gut. And it had pockets! I firmly believe that all dresses should have pockets, even big white ones. I danced all night in it without the slightest concern. And speaking of dancing...


5. I danced with my husband - After all the introductions, speeches and first dances, I danced with Chris all night long. Sure we made rounds and thanked guests, but I remember having fun with him. Although we planned everything ourselves, we actually enjoyed the wedding like guests and not hosts.

6. We had the guests leave us messages - This is the gift that keeps on giving! I most likely saw this on Pinterest; we asked guests to write messages to us on the inside of the table number card. Now we open and read the card on our corresponding anniversary. So tonight we'll read what table #2 had to say! It's a fun time capsule that we can openly yearly until our 23rd anniversary.

7. We left for our honeymoon the next day - I was worried it would be too stressful to jet off to Ireland the day after. But it wasn't! I found it quite romantic to just have a big chunk of time dedicated to wedding and honeymoon. We still were on a wedding high, and it felt more special than just another vacation.

8. We spent less than $10K - That includes everything! Honeymoon, rings, attire for ourselves and the bridal party etc. With a little under 200 guests, I thought it was quite the financial accomplishment. The last thing we wanted to do was to start our married life in "wedding debt". Because we stuck to our priorities, it was much easier to make decisions. It also helped that we did ALL of the decor and invites ourselves. So what didn't cost us money, cost a whole lot of time. Worth it! Wedding high-five!

In the end, it was a reflection of us. We had fun planning it, living it and now remembering it!

Upstate New York Family Reunion

There's nothing like some fresh mountain air to rejuvenate your spirit. This past weekend my mom's family had a family reunion at my grandparent's home nestled in the mountains between Lake George and Lake Champlain in New York State. They moved there initially to open a restaurant many years ago, before I was born. And although the restaurant dream didn't last very long they've stayed and continued to build their lives there. Growing up and visiting Gram, Pop, and the rest of my aunts uncles and cousins were always exciting adventures. This time around, Chris, Emily, Dante and myself packed up the Jeep and headed North.

Over the weekend the house was full of family I knew, some I haven't seen in years, and some I only just met. And of course, nothing brings family better than good food and drink. It was lovely to reconnect with people and catch up on each others lives. I love to hear stories about my grandparents when they were younger, or of ancestors long before me. And even though it's been two years since my gram has passed away, she is never forgotten when the house is full of merry makers.

The house at sunset. Currently everyone is watching the clay pigeon shoot out on the hill.

Middlebury Vermont is close by. We took a tour of the Woodchuck Cidery.

Frogs are just one of the many creatures that live nearby.

And tiny toads too.

Wildflowers stud the surrounding fields.

UPDATE: Emily has posted a bunch of beautiful photos on her blog from the weekend. Go check them out!

I Am Not A Robot

I subscribe to a newsletter from an awesome illustrator that takes quotes and makes them come alive with graphic illustrations, Zen Pencils. You've probably seen some of them floating around the internet. They always make me stop and read, and many times bring new meaning to an overused quote. Today's really struck a chord with me, and I wanted to share it. It came from a high school valedictorian, Erica Goldson, her graduation speech*.

I wasn't valedictorian, but I was at the top of my class, participated in student government, sports, and array of extra-curriculars. I did all the right things to get me into college. Looking back, I didn't necessarily do my best, I did what I needed to get an "A". I studied no more and no less. I loved school, and I loved learning, but sadly I think I was just another academic robot. I don't think I even realized this until after finishing my masters program, and entering "the real world". What actual, useful skills do I have? I'm not getting graded anymore, no one is praising my work, I'm not winning any awards. How do I know if I'm getting "A"s in life?!

I think since graduation this has been a bit of a struggle for me, but I recognize it and I'm working on it. I'm working on being happy, and not being "successful". Oprah's best life and all that. I surround myself with supportive and inspirational friends and family. I work and I play. I'm learning new things that never interested me growing up; cooking, gardening, homesteading. I make terrible decisions and learn from my mistakes. And I'm starting to write and share it all here. I'm lucky enough to have a teammate in life that's ready and willing to take on these adventures with me. So instead of being regretful of past choices, or paths that I took, I'll learn from my experiences and continue to grow; a bit of advice I think we all could use!


*Read and watch her entire speech here.

2013 Philadelphia Vendy Awards

The Vendy Awards are time when people come together to eat and drink amazing culinary delights prepared by the cities finest food trucks. After you sample everything, you vote! Just my kind of event. They are hosted and originated by the non-profit Street Vendor Project in New York city, and their success has spread nationwide. This was Philadelphia's third awards, and I finally got to be apart of it! This year, it took place in scenic Penn Treaty Park.

Even though lines were long, it was all worth the wait!

I got a delicious braised meatball from Foo, but it was their truck art that impressed me most.

Deep fried cheese curds from The Cow and the Curd were outstanding gooey crunchy morsels.

Nothing like a cold ale to pair with all this food on a hot day.

Left: KAMI noodles and Korean style cheesesteak were my personal favorite of the day // Right: Macarons from Sugar Philly

Cupcakes from Cupcake Carnival, Falafel from the Falafel King and Garlic Parmesan Tots from the Tot truck

Here's a list of all the Finalist Trucks in Attendance, follow the link to find out where they're located!

Chewy’s

Chez Yasmine

Christis’ Falafel Truck

Foo Truck

KAMI

King of Falafel

Lil’ Dans Gourmet

Poi Dog

The Cow & the Curd

Tot Cart

Cupcake Carnivale

Gozen

Jimmies

Lil Pop Shop

Sugar Philly

Sweet Box Cupcakes

The sun finally came out!

A view of the Ben Franklin Bridge and the Delaware River.

UPDATE: The King of Falafel took home the Vendy Award this year, congrats!

Hiking in Valley Green

Fairmount Park in Philadelphia can boast of over 4,000 acres of river, forest, trails, and historic monuments.  Some vitamin D and some fresh air was exactly what we needed after a weekend of eating, drinking, bonfires, and extreme volleyball.

Welcome Home, Stormegeddon

I'm going to tell tale of how an innocent family outing ended in thievery and deception...

Last year Chris and I went out for dinner with brothers, sisters and significant others. We were the only table seated outside the restaurant huddled by the blazing chiminea, amongst a multitude of tchotchkes, and drinking multiple pitchers of Margaritas despite the March chill. After much discussion about the amount of garden accessories that surrounded us, somehow, we ended up taking a giant wooden rooster that was seated near us. (I know, I know). That night there were heated arguments about who would get to keep the pilfered item. Since we were at Jeff and Kelly's apartment they proudly displayed it on their mantle. I don't really remember who stole it first, but since then it's been a sort of a "game" to steal it from each others homes. 

The only rules are...

1. He needs to be openly displayed and attainable 
2. If you are caught red handed you have to put him back. 

This is now our second possession of Stormegeddon, yes it is a Doctor Who reference, well done! Chris was thinking on his feet last night at Emily and Chrissy's as we left and put it in an empty tote bag on our way out. And they had only just recently stolen it from Jeff and Kelly's at Jeff's birthday party. So now we must keep constant vigilance over him! But secretly it's fun to scheme how to steal it back again. And it's nice to have family traditions, especially if it requires plotting and a good amount of tom foolery!

Stormy wanted to check out the coop this morning.

Keep those hens in line, Stormegeddon!

Just-In-Time-For-Easter Chicks

No too long ago I posted about having "Chicken Envy". Little did I know, all I needed was a trip into Lancaster County to get my chick fix. Last Saturday morning we had big plans to go to the Shady Maple Smorgasbord in Lancaster. Did the term "smorgasbord" pique your interest? Yes, it's a buffet like no other, because all the food is local and freshly prepared: meats, eggs, potatoes, danishes, pancakes, fruit, everything of the Pennsylvania Dutch variety. We started off the morning right, with a giant breakfast. Next on the agenda was shopping excursion at the nearby markets where we stocked up on canning supplies, seeds, and other outdoor can't-wait-for-summer items.

The Chicken Adventure began when we randomly stopped at a Tractor Supply Company, and spoke to a very knowledgeable woman about owning and caring for chickens. I learned a great deal speaking with her. Most importantly...

1. I can have up to 6 chickens where I live (no roosters)
2. I can have one goat (gasp)

It didn't take me long to decide we were going home with chickens. Unfortunately that store didn't have any chicks available. Fortunately, she told us where to go to get them and where to go for goats, because as I've said before, I kinda want a goat too... First stop was checking out the goats, because we definitely weren't taking home a goat today. This guy was also extraordinarily friendly and helpful, explaining the needs of a goat. Which really aren't much. In our climate he said all they need is a little shelter, and will eat anything in your yard, hopefully not Dante. Then we can enter him into the SlyFox Goat Race! But I shouldn't get ahead of myself. No goat today.

Onward towards getting some chicks! We arrived at another Tractor Supply Company where they had big containers of chicks peeping up a storm. We bought 2 Red Pullets, and 4 Speckled Sussex. (I was later informed by fellow blogger and self-proclaimed "crazy chicken lady" that the Red Pullets are Rhode Island Reds). The Sussex are "straightline" so you can't tell the sex until they're older. So, if any turn out to be roosters, we'll sell them or trade them for more chicks.

• 6 Chicks $12
• Giant bag of pine shavings $5
• Giant bag of chick food $20
• Food and Water Feeder $10
• Heat Lamp and extra bulb $10
• Backyard Chicken Magazine $5

Because there are six of them, well, we couldn't resist naming them Rachel, Ross, Joey, Monica, Chandler, and Phoebe...

Joey

Rachel

Now I should mention that Emily and her roommate will be going "halvsies"  on the chickens. How? Well, they will be brooding our chicks for the first month since Dante seems a little too curious about the chicks. Then when they have all their feathers they'll live in our yard. And of course we'll be splitting the delicious eggs they produce. And there you have it! Chickens! Now we have a month to build a coop...

"A Period of Juvenile Prosperity": Mike Brodie

Talk about adventure. Photographer Mike Brodie, aka the Polaroid Kidd, spent 10 years hopping freight trains and covered the expanse of 50,000 miles and 46 states. His latest exhibition, entitled "A Period of Juvenile Prosperity" opened today at the Yossi Milo Gallery in NYC. Additionally a book will be released, A Period of Juvenile Prosperity, published by Twin Palms.

  

Purchasing Land in the Mojave Desert

We took a West Coast adventure in March with the intention to buy some land in Apple Valley, CA right in the middle of the Mojave Desert. Many called it “crazy”, we called it an “investment”. One plane ride and mini road trip later, we signed some papers… In the end, the seller pulled out of the deal and our plans for a sustainable-off-the-grid-bungalow were scrapped.

The views are literally breathtaking at times. The mountains surround you on the seemingly alien foreground of rock and fauna. Desert one moment, lush oasis another, and snowy mountain top the next. You can experience all these in one day’s car ride.

Moving out West may or may not be in our future plans, but for now we can say, “Remember when we went to California for a weekend?”.