ThomOli

a place to rest our heads

2008-06-01T20:13:00.003-05:00

We're still a ways away from buying a bed. We still have to get the closets done, repair the plaster, paint and put in new floors. Sigh.

But when we do buy a bed I think this is the one we'll get. I'm in love.

destined to be a failure

2008-05-30T15:59:00.003-05:00

As a newlywed the whole world is filled with champagne and roses. Ok, not really. But I have nothing really to complain about. The sun is shining (finally) and it's Friday (whoo hoo!).

So I thought why not see where I fall on the Marital Rating Scale. Little did I know that I am a "very poor (failure)" wife.

I should have seen that coming. I knew my aversion to children would come back to bite me in the ass. And, excuse me, but what else is a husband for if not to warm your cold feet in bed?

Although, to be honest, I'm not sure how you can possibly reach a "very superior" score - where the heck does the 76 points come from? Maybe there was once several pages of these?

via swissmiss

2008-05-30T10:35:00.002-05:00

I was so excited to be included in Anne's bridesmaid challenge! Especially since the other bridesmaid designs are beyond gorgeous - gotta love Vane's pink!

2008-05-29T15:51:00.003-05:00

When you have floors like we do (even calling them "floors" is a bit of a misnomer) you need to have comfortable shoes to wear at all times. We wouldn't want to risk tetanus now, would we?

These could be a cute option for wearing around the house - or for venturing beyond the house too. Plus they would make me feel warm and squishy inside each time I wore them since for every pair you purchase they give a pair to a child in need.

via swissmiss

my heroes

2008-05-29T15:30:00.003-05:00

TEAL (typo eradication advancement league) are taking a roadtrip "to stamp out as many typos as we can find, in public signage and other venues where innocent eyes may be befouled by vile stains on the delicate fabric of our language."

via swissmiss

bizarre doesn't even begin to cover it

2008-05-29T14:52:00.001-05:00

via Reclaiming Miss Havisham

2008-05-29T13:32:00.001-05:00

I guess it's a step in the right direction. And if Phil and Zack need a chauffeur to Canada - I'm so there!

sure there was that girl that had the cake made to look like her

2008-05-28T16:15:00.001-05:00

Now if I had only know that this existed before we went to Mexico...

via swissmiss

another entry in the "why-am-i-so-boring" category

2008-05-28T16:01:00.001-05:00

GPS art - so friggin' cool.

via NotCot

cook all the way

2008-05-28T15:49:00.004-05:00

That's right people! I realize that most people I know couldn't care less about the outcome of the most recent American Idol showdown. And, frankly, I never really have before. (Unless you count the curly-haired wonder of season one. I don't - that was ages ago.)

I do love me some David Cook.

Incidentally, if you are interested in trashy gossip Jarett's blog is one of the best.

starting our own little jury

2008-05-22T12:53:00.002-05:00

Emily doesn't post often to her blog (what's up with that?!) but when she does it's always quality.

2008-05-21T20:52:00.003-05:00

Last night as I came up to bed I spotted this on the bed next to Jasper. I almost peed myself. It took me a second to realize it was rubber and just a toy that Jasper had pulled out of the bottom of his toy box.

Yes, he has a toy box.

2008-05-21T19:32:00.001-05:00

Karen's right. This girl is seriously awesome.

2008-05-21T18:30:00.000-05:00

That's my man.

the cat's away

2008-05-20T18:04:00.006-05:00

Thom is away on business this week and you know what that means - I consume massive quantities of extraordinarily trashy television. Sure, Thom'll sit through a Hills here and a Brothers & Sisters there. But now I can watch solid hours of total crap. And I love it.

Especially because of my latest fascination:

Isn't he adorable? I mean, how could you not be when you're named after a tennis ball company.

This is an old pic but I do love the long hair.

Which doesn't always work...

This latest fixation only really compares to my previous obsession with this one:

Poor Tammy had to suffer through me forcing her into watching episodes of The Black Donnellys. Admittedly not quality.

What can I say? I love a good jawline.

it's a zoo

2008-05-20T09:41:00.002-05:00

Thom, Matt and Justin all snacked on animal cookies the other night.

not quite adventure island

2008-05-19T12:35:00.006-05:00

One of the best things about having friends visit is doing things that we might not do normally. And going to Inspa definitely falls in that category. But Jon had mentioned it a couple of times on previous visits and it looked intriguing.

The rooftop pool with all kinds of jets was pretty awesome...

Jon enjoyed the gold suana.
I wish we could have spent more time there and enjoyed the swim up dining. Almost made me want an adopted Korean girl...
And we're thinking of putting one of these in the backyard...
Please note that I stole all these pics off their website. Due to the rampant nudity they don't allow pictures... And, come to think of it, that wouldn't have been pretty.

[I grew up near Adventure Island which, compared to Inspa, is a den of heathens and filth.]

happy birthday jackie

2008-05-18T09:33:00.000-05:00

Ok, it's a bit tardy but we've been having computer issues...

On May 2nd we celebrated Jackie's birthday with a yummy dinner at The Smith.

And then some bowling at The Gutter.

Where Omar grossed everyone out with some X-rated images.

Happy Birthday, Jackie!

2008-05-18T08:58:00.004-05:00

Jon and Laura stopped by for a too-short visit this weekend. It was great to have them (and any excuse to visit Zenkichi again). We're looking forward to having them as neighbors soon.

still not summer?

2008-05-18T08:48:00.002-05:00

Last weekend, although it was still a bit chilly, we went on a long stroll into Park Slope.

Urkel nearly joined us (I had to tear Thom away from picking him up on our way).

Once everything turns green I remember that I wouldn't want to live anywhere else.

And Jasper agrees as he begs for some vegan cupcake from 'Snice while we hang out at the Gate.

Today we're having a few people over for some grilling and beer. Although we might not get so lucky with the weather...

a bit of may gray

2008-05-18T08:34:00.005-05:00

On the heels of the shoot in San Francisco we were out in San Diego for a shoot with the client's own employees.

After we set up all the equipment we had a bitof time to head down to the water.

And sample some of the local fare.

When we returned we joined the rest of the team for a night out...
Of course, Thom joined us.
And took a fancy to Justin's glasses.
Looks tough, no?

2008-05-15T16:08:00.002-05:00

In honor of Mariah Carey's recent nuptials and because my man is so going to win!

2008-05-15T13:42:00.000-05:00

When New Yorkers see a stranger, they don't think, "I don't know you." They think, "I know you. I know your problems—they're the same as mine—and furthermore we have the same handbag."

So true.

Thanks Justin.

innocence ruined

2008-05-13T12:59:00.001-05:00

Karen has just has just alerted me to the latest encroachment of uncool to our beloved borough. Seriously?

I Love My Wife

2008-05-07T23:08:00.005-05:00

While Jesse is off in San Diego I get the luxury of holding down the fort here. It's been quite an adventure. Poor Jasper was sick on Monday and besides that I've been running around like a maniac between a crazy work week and all of my man-dates with Tung.

It just so happens I was lucky enough to stumble upon some fellow Armstrongs to help me while Jesse is away. I met them at a great local Brooklyn bar called Soda. You can totally see the resemblance.

They were even nice enough to sign this book that I happened to have on me.

Quick anecdote: Dooce totally thought I was lying when I told her that I was there on behalf of my wife. Apparently a lot of guys were using that line. Once they found out my last name was Armstrong, Dooce's husband Jon immediately started screaming the Armstrong Scottish victory battle cry "Invictus Maneo!" (I remain unvanquished). They then asked me how I could be married when I'm only 21 years old. Sheesh. Needless to say it was a fun 5 minutes and I was glad to be a proxy-stalker for Jesse in lieu of her absence. I have to say Dooce was beautiful in real life and approximately 7 or 8 feet tall.

The things we do for the ones we love.

2008-05-07T13:03:00.002-05:00

I've never met Frank's boy, Jax, but all you need to do is look in those eyes to know him.

a moment in time

2008-05-06T00:14:00.005-05:00

You know, if I hadn't already found the man who I love with all my heart, I might have to confess my undying love for Whitney and Jesse - two of the most creative, interesting and wonderful people I've ever met. Sometimes you run across one of those gems. But to find two of them - together. They're special. Not in a short bus kind of way but in a way that makes you lose your breath for a moment. Makes you want to move to Georgia to stalk them. Ok, now I'm sounding unhealthy - moving on.

These two took a moment that meant the world to us and enabled us to relive it in perfect clarity for the rest of our lives. We owe them our first born. Or maybe a home-cooked dinner which I'd be happy to deliver any minute they showed up in New York. Hell, I'd go down to Atlanta to deliver it if they want. All you have to do is ask guys.

Thank you, thank you, thank you.

(click on "view images and order prints" to see the full set)

photo thanks to tung

the calm before the storm

2008-05-04T11:15:00.002-05:00

We hit the ground running when we arrived in San Miguel de Allende. My parents, Thom, Tung and I spent the first evening putting together the guest bags. We set out early the next morning to deliver them...

We also had to pick up all the liquor for the rehearsal dinner and wedding reception. As we found out, it's no small task getting all the specific items we wanted in Mexico.

Thankfully Haverly brought the biggest bottle of Jack Daniels she could carry. A saint, that one.

With the two big tasks taken care of we were able to relax a bit with friends as they arrived in SMA. That's Andy with the "baby" margarita. It's actually a normal size drink - just looks tiny in proportion.

The next day we had organized a day trip for everyone that was in town... There was something vaguely camp-like about being on a bus with all your friends and family. Not that I ever went to camp but I imagine it was like that.

Pottery in Dolores Hidalgo

Thom and his huge sunglasses. Thank goodness he sat on those. If he hadn't - I would've done it myself.

Helado in a million flavors. Avocado was my favorite.

After a long day of trooping around we all got cleaned up for "welcome cocktails" at Gallo Restaurant.
After cocktails we went to Planta Baja for more cocktails and a little food.

Omar's superfine hat made the rounds all weekend...

I'm not sure what is happening in this picture but Omar sure is good at making faces.

See?

And wherever we go we bring the dancing.

many of these pictures thanks to omar

worth the wait

2008-05-03T11:08:00.005-05:00

Here is our first batch of wedding photos from Jesse and Whitney. Enjoy!

2008-05-02T10:58:00.002-05:00

It's important to me that my friends feel the wrath of my judgment on a regular basis. After all, I am the Bringer of Cool. Cough. Cough.

2008-04-29T12:08:00.002-05:00

There's Bobby Brown and Bel Biv Devoe and then there's this.

2008-04-29T10:23:00.002-05:00

Add this to the list of reasons why I need to stop reading Karen's blog at work. Or at least bring a change of pants for when I pee myself.

what do i do anyway?

2008-04-27T23:07:00.010-05:00

A good number of my friends and family seem to have no real idea what I do for a living. I don't really talk about that a lot on the blog because, to be honest, it's not usually exciting. But last week I was in San Francisco for a photo shoot and a few things made this trip especially blog-worthy.

First Cyrus took a wrong turn which led to a short trip to Oakland. This is Travis super excited at the thought of an unexpected trip across the water.
When we finally did get to our hotel in San Francisco we had to head out for a bit of last minute details at the locations where we were shooting. Alta Plaza park being one of them. Not a bad view, right?

The shoot involved a couple locations being shot with the tilt shift technique. Which also meant a crane, hence the harnesses.

Crane!

I'm mostly at photo shoots and whatnot to make sure our client doesn't tear the head off of the creative director and vise versa. Which really means I don't get to do any of the cool stuff. So I was more than a little excited when I got to go up in the crane at the end of the day.

This is our client - he looks a bit scared, no?

Some people think where we live is dangerous. Not so. My car hasn't been broken into and the GPS stolen in Brooklyn. At least not yet. Hm, we actually don't have GPS so I think we're good.

And, in case you're wondering, Budget Rental Car insurance doesn't cover the cost of the GPS. Ugh.

Then Cyrus dragged us to a sad, little bar in a not-so-hot neighborhood blocks from our hotel. Where some woman on the street threatened to cut our throats and this gentleman refused to let go of me. This picture is after 20 minutes of him recounting the famous people he met in his heyday with interesting impersonations to match. I look horrible in this picture (which can only be explained by this being the 4th bar of the night) but I couldn't resist posting due to the sheer ridiculousness of the moment.

After a long few days we headed back to New York in time for the video portion of the shoot. Travis, ever the Renaissance Man, taught some of our models Tai Chi.

The end product is sure to be interesting - thanks in no part to me.

It's off to San Diego next week. But I highly doubt that trip will be quite as eventful. At least I hope not.

pretending to be vegan

2008-04-27T23:01:00.003-05:00

It's been a couple weeks since we made these recipes but I'm still thinking about them. Sure to become staples around here...

Warm New Potato and Dandelion Greens Salad

Marmalade Tofu with Kale and Pearl Couscous

it's easy being green

2008-04-27T22:37:00.005-05:00

Last weekend, encouraged by the warmer weather, we went to the nursery and bought some green for the backyard.

Including a whole range of herbs, peppers, kale and tomatoes.
To be honest, Thom did most of the work but a few other people pitched in as well.

After a long day of labor we headed out to Barcade to unwind.

Now we have a whole summer to enjoy our beautiful backyard. Hopefully some yummy goodies to add to the BBQ too...

a hop, skip and a jump

2008-04-26T18:23:00.005-05:00

We've had several requests to detail the wedding trip. So, sorry for the delay and the lack of professional photos - those will come.

First we traveled from New York to Tampa so that we could drop off Jasper with Jen and Leigh and pick up my parents.

Jasper hanging around in the airport bathroom...
Thom and I had a lovely mani/pedi in Tampa. We had the first appointments of the day so it was like our private spa.

We also had some damn decent pizza and beer in St. Pete.
And, most importantly, were able to visit with Jen and Dirk who weren't able to make it to the wedding. But it felt a bit like they were involved since we got to see them right before heading to Mexico.
From Tampa we had a stopover in Houston where we met up with Tung, Val and Tony.
Mexico - finally.
After getting off the plane and a short car trip to San Miguel de Allende we grabbed a quick lunch. The heat was a bit of a shock after our chilly New York weather.

But waking up the next morning in a our big, fancy house-for-the-week to a delicious breakfast made it all feel real...

2008-04-21T09:20:00.002-05:00

Can I just say that I'm glad I listen to Karen? Girl knows what she's talking about.

2008-04-18T14:23:00.004-05:00

On our way to get some fresh air (and imitation Pink Berry) we spotted Elmo down the street.

After chasing him down the street we were able to grab a quick picture with him.
Happy Friday :)

another oldie but a goodie

2008-04-15T17:05:00.004-05:00

Sometimes you just gotta tell people:

(I try to ignore the overall ick of Bobby Brown)

And, damn if Britney didn't see it coming. Personally, I don't think she's crazy, or nasty. Poor thing.

parched

2008-04-15T15:02:00.005-05:00

If the rumors are true, it looks like Franklin Park bar and beer garden will be opening just in time for some gorgeous Spring weather. And not a second too soon, if you ask us. This bar - which looks very promising from the little peeks we've gotten - is just three blocks from us.

Can you say "regular?"

photo via Imbible

just when you've forgotten

2008-04-14T12:54:00.004-05:00

pandora serves up a real gem...

For those of you who weren't present for my awkward teenage years, I choreographed a dance to this in 6th grade gym class. And I learned a very important lesson - never trust a big butt and smile.

back to reality

2008-04-13T16:59:00.006-05:00

Before we get to all the fun we had in Mexico...

We've spent the past few days trying to remember what our real life is really like. Thankfully it's been made a bit sweeter with some we-can-almost-taste-Summer weather.

Thom strolls down our block.

Color starts to come back to Brooklyn.

Jasper pooped from all the walking.

The most awesome tofu club from our new favorite Park Slope restaurant - 'snice.

That's triple-decker, folks.

Jasper (who got a fancy, new summer shearing) was plenty thirsty after all the activity.

The first fire of season.

2008-04-13T16:38:00.004-05:00

After Thom found the perfect way to propose I started thinking of commissioning a painting as a wedding gift. I was always planning on giving it to him in time for the April celebration little did I know that he had other plans...

I have admired Evan Harris' work for some time and I knew that his style was perfect for the event. Evan's a busy man so I feel very lucky that I was able to give Thom something so personal and beautiful.

Please forgive my poor photography skills.

In case you're wondering, yup - that's Jasper.

we're such a tease

2008-04-12T21:42:00.005-05:00

We had the most amazing time in Mexico. I know, everyone says that about their wedding. But we really mean it. It was a perfect moment in time which is crystallized in our minds forever. Thankfully we had two stunning individuals who captured it all - Jesse and Whitney from Our Labor of Love (who are responsible for the picture above).

In the coming weeks we'll share some pictures from our friends and family, as well as our photographers.

Then we'll take a breath and refocus. Because I think we'll all have had enough of weddings for a while. But we have lots of juicy bits before that's done...

the party's over

2008-04-09T16:14:00.002-05:00

tons and tons of photos to follow...for now enjoy Panama Tung.

we're off!

2008-03-28T19:45:00.002-05:00

Tomorrow we head down to Florida to meet up with my parents, drop off the pup for pup-sitting and take care of a few last details. And then we're off to Mexico.

We'll be back in a couple of weeks with lots of wedding porn and gruesome stories.

trust me

2008-03-28T19:41:00.004-05:00

Close your eyes and listen. Give it a chance - it'll change your world. Ok, maybe not. But it's damn good.

This may have a similar effect on your well-being...

be warned

2008-03-27T16:40:00.002-05:00

Thom and I are going on a little mini-vacation to Portland in July. We've been dreaming about moving to Portland for a while now. At least in our fantasies it would be a calmer, greener, mid-century modern life.

But I've always wondered what exactly I would do there. I imagine there's not a wealth of high-powered advertising executive positions there. Which is actually kind of the point. Thanks to the New York Times all my questions have been answered.

Nothing's going to stop us now.

on my way home

2008-03-26T12:32:00.003-05:00

a little st. patty's day love

just cried i laughed so hard

2008-03-25T14:57:00.004-05:00

I'm having a totally crap day but this really livened it up. Especially this one. Or maybe this one.

UPDATE: this one is Karen's Mom.

via Karen.

2008-03-23T21:28:00.001-05:00

Some of my clients sent us the mandoline from our registry! We immediately set to making homemade baked potato chips to go with our veggie sloppy joes and squash.

escape at last

2008-03-23T21:24:00.000-05:00

A couple Fridays ago I was so euphoric to be leaving work with relatively warm weather (what was it? 47 degrees?) that I walked 30-something blocks downtown to meet Thom for dinner. It was wonderful and I encountered the new fountain installation in Rockefeller Center.

And then we had some lovely Indian food.

a hard day's night

2008-03-23T21:19:00.000-05:00

Some of us took quick naps, others played a little rockband to be alive enough for dinner...

Brothers Armstrong

...and Tung.

But still a little dead from the long day. Ok, maybe more than a little. Thom looks like he's about to kill someone. Kinda tough, no?

Dinner was at Beast and very yummy.

snips and snails and puppy dog tails

2008-03-18T22:52:00.000-05:00

While the girls were getting painted and stuffing our faces the boys were having their own kind of fun.

Of course some of the boys were hurting a bit from the festivities the night before. First the boys watched some soccer and then headed off to the Brooklyn Brewery.

Tony deep in thought.

Still deep in thought. And is Tung sleeping there?

Dirk bleary-eyed and bewildered.

Mike - who looks more awake than others - but it's an illusion.

See now, I'm not sure if Matt is sleepy here or trying to look sexy. Maybe he's just preparing to give me a chin-kiss, which is a regular occurrence.

And with lots of beer comes cards.

Oh and more beer.

Proof that Thom's so friggin' married.

Nope. Not cheating on me. Not cheating on me at all. I guess it's better than the alternative.

Omar's intense.
Very intense.

Brothers. Not Donnelly but it'll do.

After much beer (and pizza) was had they headed over to The Gutter for bowling.

And finally they dragged themselves over to barcade for a few games.
Sorry to disappoint, folks, but things were pretty tame all around. That is - unless I missed all those sordid stripper pictures.

All pics thanks to Omar.

2008-03-17T14:23:00.001-05:00

she's so friggin' amazing it hurts.

sugar and spice - and everything nice

2008-03-16T19:04:00.008-05:00

After Friday night's house party we got up bright and early Saturday morning. We started slow with mani/pedis and mimosas...

and temporary tattoos...
I could have stayed there all day.

Then we headed to Pipa for a much-needed lunch and sangria.

I had french toast...

We struggled to stay awake (or at least I did) on the train up to the Museum of Natural History.

We had the best of intentions to participate in a scavenger hunt but the combination of Friday night, overheated museums and a long night ahead overcame us. We only made it about half way through the hunt questions and, I suspect, Haverly had a big part to play in that. But we did get this swell group picture!

it didn't end there

2008-03-12T21:56:00.008-05:00

After we spent the day cooking and preparing people started to arrive...

We had name tags since everyone wouldn't know each other.

I made some fresh habanero-infused tequila for the occasion.

Jackie organized a newlywed game. Naturally, Thom won. Who remembers random crap like that?
Me pondering my answer.

Jackie and Matt look on.

Kristin, Mike and Kalisha. The person who took this picture (not me) either had too much to drink or was trying to be "artsy."
Ben being Ben.

Kalisha and Sarah. (Sarah just got engaged this morning, by the way. Congratulations!)

More habanero tequila shots.

With a kick.

Isabelle and Tony who will be getting married in November.
Isabelle getting down and dirty.

Something must have been funny.

Nope. I haven't had a lot to drink.

Tung and the evil eye. Clearly still recovering from his trip to Cambodia.

Jackie also hasn't had a lot to drink. PBR, anyone?

The cutest couple - Phil and Zack.

Er, maybe not?

Ghostly pictures as the dance party really gets started.

The Friday night house party was tons of fun. But we all had to get a bit of rest so we could be prepared for Saturday...

look, ma, no arms!

2008-03-11T20:50:00.002-05:00

are you ready?

2008-03-11T20:35:00.004-05:00

This is what the hubby looks like after he's been doing the hammer dance for 2 hours. Just thought those of you who will be joining us in Mexico should be prepared.

Oh, and this might happen too.

2008-03-11T20:30:00.004-05:00

In case any of you were wondering - Jackie used to be blonde. Oh yes, she was.

Birthday - 2005

But then so was I...

what's 'friend's weekend' again?

2008-03-11T20:18:00.010-05:00

When we started to plan our Bachelor/Bachelorette weekend we realized that we would actually be married already. Which, you know, makes total sense. When have ever done anything in the proper order? But then it didn't seem right to call it a "Bachelor" or "Bachelorette." We could have gone with a "hen weekend" or "stag night". But we're not English (much to Thom's chagrin) and plus we like to confuse people.

And we certainly did. We got a lot of questions when the invites went out. But in the end everyone got it - one big party! And it was.

First we gifted the groomsman with their fancy custom converse sneakers...

The weekend was cold...

We had a full refrigerator ready to feed 30-something people.

In fact the food spilled over. I nearly have Thom convinced that we need a second fridge in the cellar.

Thom had to run out for missing ingredients half a dozen times.

Dirk went with him. He was not amused.
Everyone pitched in.

Even Thom...

It was quite a spread.

Dirk and Tung were ready for the party to start...

heat

2008-03-11T16:51:00.006-05:00

Besides being one of my favorite movies, it's also a nice thing to have when taking a shower. We just replaced our water heater yesterday since the old one was leaking all over the cellar floor. And hot damn do we have hot water! I didn't even realize that maybe we shouldn't have to turn the hot faucet alllll the way on and not add any cold water. In fact, I've found that I no longer know how to ajust the hold and cold faucets to reach the perfect temperature. I nearly got second degree burns this morning.

One other benefit of the new water heater has been making us feel old, old, old. You know you're an adult when you're married and get excited about buying a new water heater. When did that happen?

Naturally, while the plumbers were in the cellar they mentioned that we might have a few other issues to take care of - joy. Thank you 100 year old house

photo

unbearable cuteness

2008-03-09T17:41:00.003-05:00

Jasper's thinking of adopting one.
via notcot

how did this happen?

2008-03-07T09:40:00.002-05:00

28 days to the wedding! It feels like it took forever and like it snuck up on us - all at the same time.

grasping at strings

2008-03-03T17:13:00.003-05:00

Every time we learn of a new bar or non-Caribbean restaurant* opening up even slightly near us we rejoice. Surely this time it means the tide is turning!

We were so excited when the super-tasty Mexican restaurant opened nearby. And it's since become the old standby. I mean, they're BYOB - does it get any better?

But we're especially excited about the impending arrival of Abigail's Wine Bar which is set to open in the bottom floor of a posh new condo building. Even better - this place is steps away from Susan & Mark's condo.

* Please note that we have nothing against the Caribbean restuarants in our neighborhood. In fact, we regularly indulge in a little veggie roti. But a little variety never killed anyone.

a tale of a girl and a whale

2008-03-03T16:51:00.004-05:00

As a child I was persuaded (read: threatened) into sitting on Shamu while on a family visit to Sea World. I received a stuffed animal for risking my life and limbs. My mother got a blurry picture of her daughter perched atop a 3 ton dolphin.

Lesson to us all: Don't be intoxicated during once-in-a-lifetime events. The pictures will suffer.

A lesson we did not heed during this past weekend.

This past weekend was our "Friend's Weekend" which is what we chose to call our joint Bachelor/ette festivities. "Why?" you ask. Just to be complicated - so there. And why did we have our Bachelor/ette party after we were technically married? Because doing things backwards makes us happy. We're simple people.

Nothing was especially racy so just as soon I get my hands on pictures taken by a more sober individual we'll regale you with tales of our adventures. To hold you over take a peak over at Hav's.

as if i need more food

2008-03-03T16:42:00.003-05:00

In January we were inhaling some delicious Ethiopian food at Ghenet when they mentioned that they would be opening another restaurant in Brooklyn. Naturally we've been stalking the location because we can't wait for MORE FOOD - especially tasty, vegetarian food that you eat with your fingers.

According to Brownstoner it looks like we're just a few weeks away. But I'm thinking that maybe we should stay away until we return from Mexico - when I no longer need to fit into several already-purchased articles of clothing.

some people think i'm lovely

2008-02-28T15:26:00.004-05:00

As I mentioned previously, we have amazing artists contributing to our Mexico festivities. And, while I want everything to be a surprise for our guests, I'm so excited I can't keep it all in any longer!

We recently finalized our order for rehearsal dinner goodies and they arrived all the way from Switzerland. Everyone that I've spoken with via Etsy has been delightful but Christa has been especially flexible.

I'm so happy to have her artwork part of our weekend. Check out her flickr site too!

living on the edge

2008-02-24T21:40:00.004-05:00

We started preparing some of the food for Friday's party already. I figured we better get organized since I have 12 hor d'eouvres on the menu - only one have I made before. So we started with these delicious chili lime peanuts.

Ok, we're going to work on these food photos. Break out the real camera for once.

a boy scout's always prepared

2008-02-24T21:34:00.003-05:00

We stopped by Jetro today to stock up on some beverages for the upcoming "friend's weekend" festivities. We thought Mexican beer would be fitting...
We did not, however, get Pink Champale. Ew.

it gets cold in here

2008-02-24T21:29:00.002-05:00

Thom got me a slanket for Valentine's Day which, I think, he meant as a joke - and it does look pretty hilarious - but it's quite useful when it's 38 degrees in the house.

Yup, we need new windows.

gym? what gym?

2008-02-22T13:35:00.003-05:00

free cupakes and it's friday? whoo hoo!

forget broccoli

2008-02-22T11:18:00.003-05:00

I can't wait to use the new blender to make curried carrot soup!

his name is jasper

2008-02-19T20:07:00.003-05:00

it's only fair that he come to live with us, isn't it?

sweet and sour

2008-02-18T20:22:00.004-05:00

It was fantastic to have a long weekend - especially since I'll be heading to jury duty tomorrow. But there are some drawbacks to Mondays. The Doughnut Plant and Papabubble were closed today. No sugar rush for us. Thankfully, the Pickle Guys were open.

half sour spicy pickles

mondays off

2008-02-18T20:17:00.005-05:00

Thanks to President's Day and fantastically warm weather we walked over to Tom's Diner this morning. As usual there was a long line waiting for a table. Thankfully they keep you occupied with a constant supply of water, coffee, orange slices, cookies and strawberries while on line.

Hmm, who needs breakfast after all?

Patiently waiting

new plates, new food

2008-02-18T20:09:00.004-05:00

Someone gifted us the set of plates off our registry which means we have something like 22 place settings. "Why would you ever need that many" you ask? Well, you'd be surprised. We always seem to have a shortage around here.

Last night was a small dinner with Matt and Jackie but it was nice to try out the new plates anyway.
Spinach salad
Broccoli soup with chili oil (thanks to our new blender from Thom's parents!)

Wild mushroom pasta and crispy asparagus

birthday bbq

2008-02-16T20:27:00.003-05:00

We went out for Korean last night. I obviously didn't partake in the sushi or bbq but had some tasty bibimbap.

27 and married. When did that happen?

happy valentine's day

2008-02-16T20:24:00.004-05:00

They put out green m&m's at work this week in honor of v-day. What a perk.
That's Camille eating them at 10:45 in the morning. She doesn't normally stick her tongue out at me...

dinner parties are best at other people's houses

2008-02-16T20:18:00.004-05:00

We went over to Omar and Megan's this past Wednesday for an amazing dinner. They made delicious soup and butternut squash lasagna and I didn't lift a finger. Come to think of it - I hope they're not annoyed that I just sat there...

Jackie waiting patiently for dinner.
Megan taking a breather.
Thom partaking in a little pre-dinner cheese.

blurry party pictures

2008-02-16T20:13:00.004-05:00

Last weekend we went over to Matt's place in Windsor Terrace to celebrate 100 days until they're lawyers! Which, of course, meant tequila and jello shots.

Jackie double fisting wine and a jello shot in the kitchen.
Matt dancing with a baking pan. Can you tell they're excited to graduate from law school?

2008-02-16T19:59:00.003-05:00

Sure the Superbowl was, like, weeks ago. But I'm running a bit behind these days. Sue me.

We set up our new outdoor furniture in the den to have a bit of extra table space for all the treats. I can't wait for summer...
Band practice...
Buffalo "chicken" wings and 7 layer dip. Yum.

Needless to say - there was some celebration around here. Thankfully Thom didn't go through the floor.

must you take my picture again?

2008-02-16T19:56:00.002-05:00

2008-02-12T16:42:00.000-05:00

You wouldn't believe it unless you saw it but Jasper is really at his most adorable when he eats. He chomps down on tiniest little piece of carrot or whatever and his face gets all contorted. Apparently it takes real concentration to chew when you're just a wee 6 pounds.

This only slightly beats Jasper in the cute contest.

via Dooce

days of yore

2008-02-12T16:13:00.001-05:00

Thom and I spent an inordinate amount of time at the new Beer Table this past weekend. It was just slightly bitter sweet since it's 3 blocks from our old condo.

Not only are Justin and Tricia incredibly friendly and knowledgeable but the beer and cheese is fantastic. And they may start to have salads!

I'm hooked.

revising history

2008-02-09T10:05:00.000-05:00

When I mentioned to my cousin, Heather, that I wouldn't really recommend the Brooklyn City Clerk's office as a romantic or classy locale (don't we know it?) she offered to beautify some of the photos from our ceremony. I don't really want to remember the "stained glass" hideousness or peeling walls.

Thanks to Heather, I can now remember our emotions and that my hair looked damn good. As an added bonus, it also reminds me of the very beginning of our wedding planning when we were considering the DUMBO waterfront as the perfect location for our nuptials.

Thanks, Heather.

we go there for the atmosphere

2008-02-03T15:52:00.001-05:00

This Friday evening we went to Spuyten Duyvil and Fette Sau (owned by the same people) in Williamsburg. Thankfully Thom and I had already eaten dinner otherwise we would have gone hungry. Well, we did have a pickle.

But we certainly weren't left thirsty...
Interesting draft beers, no?
Fittingly blurry whisky.
What else do you do when you're waiting for your meat?
Matt and Jackie, however, had not eaten dinner. They enjoyed their ribs and burnt ends. I tried not to make unappetizing faces.

The bartender specifically asked that I not take his picture. Although I wasn't trying to take his picture - just the bar. Wonder what that story is...

tuesday night treats

2008-02-02T18:38:00.001-05:00

bibimbap and green apple soju

that didn't take long...

2008-01-30T09:15:00.000-05:00

Back to jury service I go on February 19th!

something to keep you going until spring

2008-01-28T23:02:00.000-05:00

We picked up some new outdoor furniture that Baked was getting rid of this weekend. Last year we definitely didn't have enough seating at moments.

It won't officially make it's debut until it warms up outside but this is just a little sneak peek.

sweet somethings

2008-01-28T22:56:00.001-05:00

Thom and I visited the Papbubble store this weekend. I read about them on a blog (I forget which one) and they were even more amazing then I had imagined. It was like a mix between Willy Wonka-land and 10th grade biology class.

For those of you who will be joining us in Mexico - there may be something sweet in your future.

semi-official

2008-01-28T12:54:00.000-05:00

At least at work (although not in the eyes of the law quite yet) I'm an Armstrong.

2008-01-25T11:42:00.001-05:00

Our photographers do more than just shoot weddings... I'm so excited to meet them in person - they seem like incredible people. Is it bad to hire people because you want to be their friend?

in case you were wondering

2008-01-25T09:07:00.000-05:00

Watching Love Story not quite 2 weeks into your marriage when your husband has been gone for nearly a week of that is not a good idea.

And I don't buy that "not having to say you're sorry" garbage.

a space of my own

2008-01-23T11:50:00.001-05:00

Ever since seeing the beautiful picture of the black tub and white bathroom I've been fantasizing about what we could do to our master bathroom. This picture has me dreaming of double sinks. And, while not for our bathroom, gorgeous dark wood floors. After a year and a half of living in a house with worn down, patchy subfloor I salivate at the thought of floors like these. Walking around the house in bare feet! Can you even imagine?

via Remodelista

2008-01-20T16:23:00.001-05:00

Last night we went to this amazing Japanese restaurant, Zenkichi, in Williamsburg where we had many courses in a little black box. We all got the tasting menu - but I got the vegan version.
Tomato and Tuna Carpaccio
Beef carpaccio and chrysanthemum tempura
Yellowtail and daikon and pork bellyMatt inhaling the bamboo dish with chicken "meatballs." Apparently, it was tasty.
Dessert was milk pudding, black sesame mousse and something I've forgotten which was really tasty.
Grapefruit Jelly (made with agar - no gelatin)
Thom lifting the screen to our booth into Matt's face - doing whatever he can to ruin pictures of Jackie and Matt. Yup, he's an adult folks. Maybe we had too much unfiltered sake?
Trying again.

perfection

2008-01-20T16:19:00.001-05:00

There's no better way to end the week then with forty carrots frozen yogurt and sprinkles. Tammy was kind enough to join me in the indulgence. I highly recommend it.

2008-01-20T16:02:00.001-05:00

Thom had a few surprises for me last weekend in honor of our wedding day. And, um, that it was our anniversary. I totally forgot about that part and only gave Thom the gift of my love.

I've wanted an Ann Wood bird for ages but never was able to find the perfect one. Her birds are really sought after and whenever she posts new ones to her site they're gone immediately. Thom found Gus and Tilly at Cog and Pearl and they made the perfect present for our winter wedding.

Gus and Tilly hanging out on the eames rocker.
AND proving that this blog is a valuable tool, Thom also snagged these gorgeous places from dolamakes. Tony and Val sent us the whale dish for a wedding present. Supporting Brooklyn independent artists!

...and now time for a cocktail

2008-01-17T17:37:00.001-05:00

After the ceremony at the city clerk's office we walked over to Bocca Lupo to celebrate.

again thanks to Susan, Ben and Jackie for the pics

No Little White Chapel

2008-01-17T17:20:00.000-05:00

Getting hitched at the city clerk's office in Brooklyn isn't exactly all champagne and roses. But it does the job. We were in and out in about 20 minutes.

Thom when he realizes what he's about to do...

No, really I was excited.

This is me trying to warn Jackie that the security guard is going to kick her out for taking pictures.

Feeling fancy.

The whole ceremony lasted about 2 1/2 minutes but it was sweet. (What's that hideous backdrop?)

We were both laughing pretty much the whole time. It just seemed so surreal.

It was a snap!

As fast and no-frills as it was, we've never been happier to no longer be living in sin!

All pictures from Susan, Ben and Jackie.