Stacey and Joe's Journey

[StaceyMc]

I woke up this morning, turned to my new husband and said "I can't wait until we go away." I think we both understand now why people go on honeymoons directly after their wedding. We've had very little down time. In fact, last Sunday, we were thrilled to spend the first quiet day at home together since our wedding.

I'm hoping that this weekend will be quiet, but we have some family stuff (his) bubbling in the background that might turn into a battle before the weekend is over.

We're both so happy (even with the family annoyances that have been ongoing since the wedding). He's happier than I've ever seen him. Neither one of us can believe that we're actually married. Of course, the rings and the rig-a-ma-role of me changing my name should be our first clue (who knew that it could be so time consuming?)- not to mention our beautiful pictures, and the fact that we live together now.

The adjustment to living together has gone so smoothly - better than I expected, actually. I was razzing him in the grocery store on Sunday - why is it our cart is filled with stuff that you like? Everytime we were picking something "But I like that kind..." I'd hear from him :) Just like a kid. Coffee, peanut butter - goofy stuff. As long as it's coffee, I really don't care what kind it is :)

I love married life.

[StaceyMc]

Originally, we talked about Gatlinburg, TN. Then, it was Vegas. Now, it's Gettysburg, PA. I know, I know....it might not sound like the most exciting honeymoon, but....if we don't have to get up and go to work - I'm all for it!

He has very little vacation time, so we didn't want to burn days by driving a long distance, and quite frankly, Vegas bothered me, financially. We're not gamblers and anything we would want to do would cost us big bucks (see one show, or something like that). Heck, even getting there and having a place to sleep was pretty darned expensive.

He was looking at Bed and Breakfasts in Gettysburg earlier for a trip sometime and showed it to me. My favorite place has a beatuiful, romantic suite with a private entrance and porch. I can't think of a better way to spend a few quiet days with my husband and he'll love exploring battlefields and such - in fact, he's gotten me interested in it as well. We've decided to go for five days over Memorial Day weekend and take a day trip to DC. (He knew I'd been wanting to go back to DC and he has wanted to see the Rolling Thunder - the Vietnam Vets who ride their motorcycles to the Wall on Memorial Day weekend.)

So, we're in the process of planning that and I'm counting down the days before we can leave. Ahhhh, peace and quiet...well...maybe not that quiet

[NicksBride]

aww that is sooo sweet you can call him your husband now! I bet that feels good. :) Any vacation sounds wonderful for your honeymoon. Can't wait to see how it goes.

[shawnsgirl]

We're thinking of Gatlinburg TN in the smokey mountains...Gettysburg is a very nice town...A lot to do there for free. Check out the horsebackriding tours of the battlefield they're great if weather permits..I'm not sure if they do them this time a year but its good to look into. Also, the ghost tours are pretty cool too so that's something to check out as well! I love going to Gettysburg there is a ton to do and see!!!

[StaceyMc]

Yesterday, when Joe and I got home from church and shopping, my neighbor, Cathy, was outside. I hadn't seen her in a while (she splits her time between her house and her current boyfriend's house) and I had a few wedding pictures in an envelope that I had just gotten developed. She looked at them and asked how I liked married life. I told her it was nice. Her response "I'd never get married again..."

Granted, her first husband was arrested for child pornography (it just turns my stomach) and her second husband, was....well...an *** - I can't explain it any better. Before her marriage to her second husband, she asked me (I didn't know her that well at the time) if I thought they should get married.....ummm...she answered her own question there.

But, I don't understand why you'd say that to a newlywed couple. I certainly don't agree with the way she's living her life right now, but I'd never say "I'd never date another man before I ended my marriage."

She's not the first person that has said that to me...it's odd.

[NicksBride]

that is funny, I have heard people say that and I am not even married yet. Do they expect us to fail? I guess they are jsut upset that their happiness didn't last, kinda sad when people feel the need to do that. I have friends who are my age 22 who haev never been married and are saying that. ARGHH! Well i am happy you are married and you guys are going to have a wonderful life together. ;)

[Goin2thechapel]

Yea, That is weird...Almost like trying to take the fun out of being married....She's just jealous of your "newlywed glow" :)

Shine on hunny shine on!!!

[StaceyMc]

On Friday evening, Joe asked what I was doing on April 21 - I don't know what I'm doing the next day - much less over a month away. I told him I'd probably be doing whatever he's doing - why?

He wants to go to Louisville, KY for the kick off to the Derby. They have a gigantic firework show (he knows how much I love fireworks) and a huge airshow. So, I think we'll be taking off on Friday night 4/20 - go to Cincinnatti to stay - and drive to Louisville on the 21st, spend the day and then back to Cincinnatti and leave for home on 4/22. Sounds fun to me. He'll be so excited to see the air show (he was a Navy helicopter/airplane repairman when he was in the military).

[NicksBride]

ohh that sounds like a great time! It would be nice to have a little road trip. :)

[ladymelissa]

It is great to hear you are enjoying your married life! Your HM plans sound really lovely. Have fun kicking off the Derby!

I wouldn't let your neighbor bother you, she probably is just jealous on some level.

[StaceyMc]

I wouldn't let your neighbor bother you, she probably is just jealous on some level.

She doesn't bother me - to each their own, I figure. I just found it to be an odd comment to make, but she wasn't the first that said it so....whatever.

This bothers me and it has been bothering me since the wedding. Joe's uncle Dennis and his wife didn't come to the wedding and sent their RSVP card back late. His Aunt didn't come to my bridal shower and RSVP'd the day before the shower. They have two kids in college, so we figured that maybe the kids were home those weekends. His Aunt did send a card and a gift to me after the shower (I could have cared less about gifts - I just wanted to see everyone.)

The weekend before last, Joe and I were looking at freezers at Lowes. His uncle came around the corner (he sells applicances at Lowes and was transferred to our local one). He congratulates us on our marriage and pulls us aside to tell us that he and his wife didn't come to the wedding because they are mad at Joe's other aunt and uncle. Joe was so hurt. Uncle Dennis couldn't put aside his arguments with Uncle Doug for one day. All they had to do was call me and tell me that they didn't want to sit with Uncle Doug and Aunt Phyllis - which wouldn't have been a problem - Doug was Joe's Best Man and he and Phyllis sat with us.

I really don't understand why he just couldn't have made up something - they had other plans, whatever...but don't say something that you know is going to hurt someone's feelings.

As of today, no card...nothing. At least acknowledge the fact that your nephew got married - send a congrats card.

I have a friend of about 10 years who RSVP'd for her and her husband that they were coming and then didn't. She never bothered to call and e-mail and tell me why, until I e-mailed her the Tuesday afternoon after the wedding. He husband fell at work and had to go to the emergency room. I understood that, but hello...at least call, leave a message or something. I sent her an e-mail with a picture attached and then sent her a thank you for her prayer/wish that she sent to be included with the prayer/wish shawl that my mom made for us and included a picture in there. I've heard nothing from her since, except for stupid e-mail forwards, even after I sent an e-mail asking how her husband was. I swear, the next time I get a fundraiser request for one of her kids, I'm just ignoring it.

I guess weddings show you who really cares about you.

[NicksBride]

aww I am so sorry! I agree with you though, for weddings unfortunately you find out who your real friends are and who your real family is. I hope it does not damper your wedding to much by what others do.
Just remember that truly the ones who cared about you were there and that sometimes is all that matters, but I am sorry people hurt you and your husband.

[Doglover]

We're thinking of Gatlinburg TN in the smokey mountains...Gettysburg is a very nice town...A lot to do there for free. Check out the horsebackriding tours of the battlefield they're great if weather permits..I'm not sure if they do them this time a year but its good to look into. Also, the ghost tours are pretty cool too so that's something to check out as well! I love going to Gettysburg there is a ton to do and see!!!
I went to Gatlinburg last weekend! I live about 30 min. from there.

[StaceyMc]

I hope it does not damper your wedding to much by what others do. Just remember that truly the ones who cared about you were there and that sometimes is all that matters, but I am sorry people hurt you and your husband.

I didn't notice that my friends weren't there until I picked up the seating cards from the table that were still there. So, naw...no one put a damper on the wedding for either of us. Joe figured that was the reason that his uncle didn't come. I told him that whomever was there loved us and we had a fab time. Those who didn't come...their loss!

[NicksBride]

AMEN sister! :)

[tiffany.marlene]

What does HM mean? What are all the abbreviations in the forums...I'm confused. :-) Sorry. I guess you can tell I'm new here!

[NicksBride]

I think it means honeymoon. hehe I always get confused as well. :)

[StaceyMc]

I know, I've been MIA for a while. Joe and I were settling into married life (how sweet it is) and my grandmother has been in the hospital, had major back surgery, moved to a rehab and has, just yesterday, gotten home. It all happened so quickly. We were all prepared for the physical side effects of the surgery, i.e., pain, etc. However, none of us were prepared for the drug side effects - she was on very very strong narcotics and then they abruptly stopped them and they kept changing her drugs. Grandma basically went through withdrawal - her mental state was....there are no words to describe it. In the middle of that, my mother's cousin passed away suddenly - it's just been a little nutty around the "V" household.

But anyways, grandma is doing much better. I'll be anxious to visit this weekend, or next week.

And Joe and I...we're as happy as can be.

[NicksBride]

oh dear I am so sorry to hear about what has been happening around your household but so glad to hear that you and Joe are doing so well you two love birds. I hope you get to see your Grandma soon!! Take care we missed you around here!

[StaceyMc]

So, our honeymoon plans are set. Gettysburg it is. I finally got Joe to call the bed and breakfast Monday evening to make reservations - they're booked the 4 nights we wanted. In fact, they've been booked for MONTHS!

After spending a few hours looking for another place, I came across the most perfect place ever! It's Hickory Bridge Farm (www.hickorybridgefarm.com (http://www.hickorybridgefarm.com)) Originally, we wanted a cottage, but of course, as it always happens with me, they could accomodate us every night except for Saturday. Well heck - we can't sleep outside on the porch on Saturday. I was so frustrated, until she said "We do have "The Old Farmhouse" The old farmhouse is like a house, without a kitchen (who the hell wants a kitchen on their honeymoon anyways?....lol) The bedroom and bath are upstairs and the sitting room is downstairs. I said WE'LL TAKE IT! Who cares that it was $10.00/night more. I fell in love with the pictures of the farm as soon as I found the site.

It's 10 miles from Gettysburg. We're definately planning a candlelight ghost tour and we're also going to spend a day in Washington DC. And, of course, if you knew us, it wouldn't suprise you that we've picked two places out to have dinner already.

Now, I can count down the days until we get to go away.

[NicksBride]

Sounds like a great get away!! Sounds very relaxing and I LOEV the picture of the website.

[StaceyMc]

Joe got a promotion!!! It's been less than a year that he's worked at his current employer. They approached him a few weeks ago and mentioned that they're opening another branch, out of state, and they're going to offer the manager position to the current branch manager of Joe's site and if the current branch manager decides to move, would Joe be interested in the position.

He hem-hawed around about it for a while, we talked about the raise and the additional hours that this promotion will be and I told him that the decision was his. There's more important things in life than money, however, I thought it was a good move for him to take it.

On Friday, we're getting ready to go out to dinner and he says "Oh by the way, I took the position." I kissed him and told him how proud of him I am! :penguin: His confidence was totally shot with all of the problems we had last year with jobs. But, I always say that things happen for a reason.

[NicksBride]

Well congratulations to Joe! I feel like I am reading a story with all your additions. That is just wonderful!

[StaceyMc]

I haven't posted in a while, there hasn't been too much going on that anyone would be interested in reading. However, I have been sticking my head in, checking on everyone's upcoming weddings and looking at the recent wedding pictures!

My nephew's first birthday is this weekend. I can hardly believe that the little guy have been around for an entire year! The little bugger is army crawling across the floor at about 50 miles an hour and pulls himself up to stand up - and then let's go. I think he's going to be a daredevil.

Joe is building Ty (the nephew) a toybox for his first birthday. It turned into a huge toybox - but it's beautiful and the kid has a TON of toys, so I'm sure my sis and BIL will put it to good use. Once we have it completely finished, I'll have to post a picture of it.

We're counting down to our honeymoon. I can't wait to get away.

[NicksBride]

aww glad to hear things are going well, we miss you around here!
A toybox what a great gift for a one year old, they grow up fast don't they? My god daughter just turned 1 and it just seems so fast!!!
When are you leaving again? Soon?

[StaceyMc]

We're leaving on 5/25. I'm counting down the days. It will be soooo nice to get away. However, I'm glad we waited until the weather was nicer. Pennsylvania in February is kind of unpredictable :)

[NicksBride]

hahaha weather in Feburary is never good. haha. Not long now! I bet you guys will have a wonderful time. It will be so nice I am sure to be alone, in a nice setting together. so romantic!!!!

[StaceyMc]

Joe and I are both looking forward to going on our honeymoon. In fact, Joe has mentioned it quite a few times in the past week or so.

We were at the mall two weeks ago looking for shoes for him and he saw some really pretty sundresses in Penney's and asked if I wanted to buy anything before we went away. He knows that I hate spending money on myself. So, we picked out two really cute dresses for out two nice dinners that we're planning - I'm so anxious to wear my new cute dresses. Of course, the dresses started the ball rolling and I've since splurged on some new capri pants and some tops and two new pair of cute shoes!! (I amuse easily, I guess)

I'm to the point where I don't care if we even leave our little farmhouse once we get there. Peace and quiet and not having to go to work - that's the ticket!

I was looking at some things to do once we're in Gettysburg and I found Boyds Bear Country! Joe already knew it was there - guess where we'll be going!

[NicksBride]

Ohhhh I am so happy for you guys, I can tell just how excited you are! That is so cute that he thought of you when he saw the sundresses, i am sure you will look very nice!! Hey, you can wear your honeymoon wear again when it gets warmer out. No worries, ENJOY your shopping purchases!!! Can't wait to hear how it goes when you get back!

[StaceyMc]

Three months ago today, Joe and I were married. He's a goofball - I asked him this morning if he knew what today was. "Thursday?" "Your dad's birthday?" (we're having a family dinner tonight for dad's birthday tomorrow) "The Alamo?" "Ahhh - that's right! It's been three months and you haven't killed me yet!"

Married life is nice, not all lollipops and sunshine, but I love being married, even when he's snoring like a freight train and I can't get to sleep.

[NicksBride]

haha you guys are so cute! I just love how you talk about Joe, I can tell you guys are in love.
Happy three month anniversary!!!! :)

[StaceyMc]

I have two cases that I have been working on for a loooonnnngggg time. In one case, the client is just uncooperative. It's detrimental to herself that she's being uncooperative. She's made me look bad A LOT over the last few weeks (lying about returning documents, etc.) Finally, today, she returned the documents. Of course, it was 30 minutes after the hearing and my boss had to beg the Judge to grant yet another extension. He had no idea that she was going to drop that document off at this late time. She's so lucky. I could hear the happiness in his voice when I called and said that I had the doc in my hand. Oppossing counsel was soooo ticked at that hearing this morning.

Annnnddd...I have another case that is practically keeping me awake at night. Today, I received an e-mail indicating that the UST was reversing their decision and will let my client's case go though....HUH? WHAT? I had to read the e-mail three times to make sure I was understanding it. WOOHOO!

I can't even express how relieved I am that these things are starting to come together. As you know, we're going on our honeymoon soon. When I take time off, no one is in the office to back me up - so, the work is awaiting my return.

Of course, there are about a bazillion cases needing my attention and I'm sure between now and next Thursday, at least two will become a thorn in my side, but for now, I'll be happy.

[NicksBride]

What do you do for work???

It is always nice when something works out for the better! I know with my clients sometimes I can't find them and get realyl worried, so then I hear they are doing their community service or the judge dismissed their case etc. Its always nice to hear that!!!!! So yea!!!!!

[StaceyMc]

I'm a paralegal for a busy sole practitioner. I'm the only employee, so that means, I'm the paralegal, legal secretary, office manager, billing clerk, semi-accoutant, file clerk, etc.

I don't really know what I've done today to be rewarded so greatly, but...I just had two more pain in the arse cases kind of straighten out, at least a little. I've done the happy dance about four times today.

[NicksBride]

wahoo! Shake what your mama gave you. :)
You sound like quite the multi-tasker! What are they going to do without you when you go on your honeymoon?

[StaceyMc]

Ha - when I go on vacation, the work piles up on my desk. The next five days will be hell - I need to get the filing all caught up and get a few things in order. I'll be in the office early and staying late, I'm sure.

[NicksBride]

aww poor thing! But hopefully it will be worth it so you can have a nice and relaxing vacation!

[StaceyMc]

I've been here 8 years, so I know what to expect. It's hell the week before I leave and hell the week I come back - but the time in between is always worth it.

[NicksBride]

haha good.

[StaceyMc]

Joe and I had such a nice weekend. There wasn't anything in particular that we "had" to do, so we just did whatever.

Friday night, we went to dinner at an Irish Pub that I found in the Entertainment Book. Other than getting undercooked Shepards Pie (which I ate part of before I realized it), it was OK. It was a beautiful restaurant - decoration wise, but the food left a lot to be desired - like....well...to be fully cooked. And then we did some shopping.

Saturday - We went to my parents camp and spent the afternoon there with them. Joe and Dad worked on a ramp for the shed and Mom and I went to this really cute store a few towns over. We had dinner at a really good italian restaurant on the way home and then did our weekly "WalMart Run" and picked up a few things for our trip.

Sunday - was the nicest day. He went to his moms to put out the trash and then we went to visit his dad and pick up something to put on the grill for dinner. He made ribs with salad and grilled veggies. It was sooooooooo good. I did laundry and moved furniture around in the bedroom and put the nightstand I bought a few weeks ago in there and moved the bookshelf into the livingroom.

Tonight, I think I'll finish the laundry and start gathering things up for our trip on Friday. The last thing I need is Joe asking on Thursday night, with one shirt in hand "Can I wash this?" The man will run the washing machine for one shirt - he obviously had never lived in a house with a well before....lol.

[NicksBride]

aww sounds like a lovely weekend. Glad to hear it was relaxing and spent some nice time with family.
Your honeymoon is coming so fast, I bet you are really excited. :)

[StaceyMc]

I wasn't rushing out the door this morning, which is unusual. I grabbed my lunch, my coffee, my keys, and the bills that I was mailing, hopped in the car and made my way to work. About 3/4 of the way to the office, I realize - I don't have my purse. I have no money, no license, nothing.

I guess it's good that I packed a lunch and put gas in the car yesterday.

[NicksBride]

hahahhahaaha. I have done that. It is awful. I always feel so lost. I forgot my phone and office keys etc. It always drives me insane.
Oh well, sounds like you got everything else. Just drive the speed limit on the way home. haha

[StaceyMc]

Usually, before I take a few days off, work sucks (more than normal), because I'm trying to get things done and work ahead.

Today at lunch, I got an e-mail from the place that we're staying at. She says that they had a cottage open up! WOOHOO! Joe and I wanted a cottage in the first place, but settled for the "Old Farmhouse" when it wasn't available. The Old Farmhouse was larger and a little more expensive, but it looked beautiful. Hopefully, we'll be able to get the cottage. It's a little more private. Joe was soooo happy when I called him to tell him.

[NicksBride]

ohh how nice! a private cottage all to yourself! That would be really nice. I hope you can get it!

[Goin2thechapel]

ohh la la!!! I would love a cottage for just hubby and I... How romantic!

[StaceyMc]

I e-mailed the bed and breakfeast lady back about the cottage and then obsessively checked my e-mail for her reply. I called her, the cottage is OURS!! The neatest part is - on Sunday, our breakfast is delievered to our cottage in a basket. Awwwwww......how romantic! YIPPPPEEEE!!!

[NicksBride]

aww that is just soo freakin romantic. You guys are going to have such a lovely time. I am so glad you got the cottage. Enjoy yourselves and lounge around, don't move until you have to. :)

Take lots of pictures of your trip as well! I checked out the bear place you are going, they are soo cute. I am jealous, you are going to have fun doing that!!!

[StaceyMc]

I'm getting so darned excited to go on our honeymoon. Joe is too. He told me that this is his first actual vacation. I remember him calling me from Norfolk a few years ago before we were actually dating, although he said that wasn't a vacation - he just went there to see where he used to live and visit some friends.

After I told the bed and breakfast lady that we'd take the cottage, I remembered that the cottages do not have TV and the Old Farmhouse did. I asked Joe if he wanted to switch back. He said no - if you knew Joe, you'd know how shocking that is. He always has the TV on. TV is usually background noise for me, unless CSI or the Soprano's are on.

I think we're going to take my parent's portable DVD player and a few movies so we can watch them in at night, if we want. Not that we want to sit there and watch television on our honeymoon, mind you. I'll take a radio so we can at least hear the weather forecast and news in the mornings.

I'm thinking of getting a bottle of champagne and some crackers and cheese for our first night of the honeymoon.

[NicksBride]

aww it just sounds so romantic. Imagine a time without noise and without TV or anything to distract you. Sounds heavenly!!!!! I think that sounds like nice things to bring on your first night. Sounds soooo great! You are going to have a wonderful time.

[StaceyMc]

On 5/22/07, my paternal grandmother - my Nannie - passed away. It was a blessing, in a sad way. She suffered from dementia and other illnesses and had been in a nursing home for nine years. She hadn't truly spoken a word or recognized anyone for most of those years. Sometimes, she would look at me and I'd wonder if she knew what was happening to her. I hated to see my beautiful Nannie suffering that way.

My grandfather had recently made a decision that there would be no more hospital trips. The hospital stays were hard on her and didn't help. I think he was finally ready to let her go. She passed away shortly after her told her "No more hospitals, I promise."

Nannie's death was very hard for me - she is the first person close to me that has passed. I've been very lucky in my 33 years to still have all four of my grandparents in my life.

We had to promise my parents and my grandfather that we would not change our honeymoon plans and that we would leave directly after the funeral on Friday. In fact, they were practically shoving us in the car to leave. I'm sure they knew how close I was to cancelling.

My Nannie was the epitome of a church lady. She was Sunday School Superintendent until she could no longer serve, due to the dementia moving in. She would sneak my sister and I into the kitchen and give us toasted coconut marshmallows and Circus Peanuts (it's her fault that I sometimes crave those things). She always had a full cookie jar and made the best iced tea with fresh mint - I've never been able to duplicate it. She loved having cookouts and wore pedal pushers on hot summer days. She always wore a skirt and blouse to family dinners and church. Thankfully, I have her cooked icing recipe and salad dressing recipe - a part of her will always be with me.

As long as I was busy and didn't have time to think, I could fight the tears on Tuesday and Wednesday. I did marathon ironing on Wednesday night of everything that we were packing. I swear, if I hadn't felt like I was going to collapse from exhaustion, I would have ironed underwear, just so I could be busy. I didn't want to think of what Thursday and Friday would bring.

I told Joe after the funeral, through sobbing tears, that if he loved me half as much as my Pop Pop loved my Nannie, we'd have a long and happy marriage. They would have been married 64 years in August.

I think about her smiling down on me and know that I will see her again.

[StaceyMc]

After the sad start to our honeymoon, we had a wonderful time. The cottage we stayed in was beautiful. We're already missing the quiet - only hearing the creek (and the 24/7 crowing rooster) when we stepped onto the porch. We are definately staying there when we go there again.

We drove into Washington DC on Saturday - what an adventure. We finally found Union Station and hopped on a trolley bus to go to some memorials. I cried through the Vietnam Wall and saw the World War II memorial, Korean War Memorial and said "Hey" to President Lincoln and looked at the Washington Monument. We also went to the Museum of Natural History and to Arlington Cemetary. We hiked up to the top of the hill to see the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and were lucky enough to get there just as the Changing of the Guards was taking place. What a moving sight. Unfortunately, the museum I wanted to go to is closed until 2008 - all I wanted to see was Dorothy's frickin' red shoes and Mr. Rogers sweater - so, I made Joe promise to take me back. After touring all day, we ate dinner at Union Station, found our car and made the crazy drive back out of D.C. I think we deserve a gold star for driving in and out of there - good heavens! The only rules of the road are (1) drive as fast as you can and (2) don't use your turn signals!

I'll continue tomorrow - I'm still exhausted!

[Panthers Bride]

I'm so sorry about your Nannie.

But I'm glad you enjoyed your honeymoon.
Did you take pictures?

[NicksBride]

oh sweetie, your post about you Nannie made me cry. She reminded me of my nana who I love dearly. I can't imagine how you are feeling, but just know as you said she is looking down and left you with more then her receipes.
I am happy despite what happened that you were able to go on your honeymoon and enjoy yourselves, because you deserved it. Hope you took pictures and take care of yourselves. It will get easier but it sounds like Nannie will always be with you!!!!

[StaceyMc]

Amy - thank you. And yes, we took about a bazillion pictures :) It's on my agenda at lunch time to get them developed and put on CD and hopefully I can share a few in the next few days.

Katy - Nannie left me with more than recipes, that's for sure. I'm sorry that I made you cry - that wasn't my intention.

[StaceyMc]

On Sunday, the bed and breakfast delivers breakfast to the cottage in a basket - it was so pretty! Joe was in the shower when the cute little old guy knocked on the door with the basket. I set the breakfast up on our little table. Joe came out, looked at the table and said "There's a flower in my fruit!" I laughed so hard - they used a pretty little pansy as garnishment in the fresh fruit cup.

After breakfast, we headed over to Gettysburg to take a look around the town. We spent most of the day just walking around, checking out nifty stores and deciding what we wanted to do and see. There is so much to do there - we're going back again. It was nice to spend the afternoon just roaming around, with nothing that we had to do.

I also enjoyed seeing costumed people walking about town. They had battlefield camps set up - it was just so neat. Apparently some people just dress up Civil War Era and walk around - it would be so neat to see as a little kid.

As we're walking through town, Joe said he needed to use the restroom - finding a public bathroom was proving difficult, so we sat down at a bar, had margaritas and used the restroom. It was the best margarita I'd had in a long time. Of course, had we actually looked at our visitors guide, we would have found public restrooms much easier :)

Sunday night was our night to have our honeymoon celebration dinner at The Dobbin House. It is a restaurant in a historic house. The decor was so beautiful - it fit the era of the home perfect. And the food - oh my goodness.

I think the most surprising thing about Gettysburg was that they weren't trying to overcharge you at every turn. You could actually take a child there and not spend a bazillion dollars.

[StaceyMc]

Monday, we had breakfast in the dining room of the farmhouse with the other guests - one couple had just gotten married on Sunday, one couple got married on Saturday and one couple had been married for 27 years. It was nice to sit and chat with others over a yummy breakfast of pancakes, sausage and fruit (no flowers this time.)

We went to Boyd's Bear Country on Monday. We rounded the corner and I said "WOW!!!" and jumped out of the car to take a picture of the building. It was such a neat place - you could spend hours and hours in there just looking around. Joe even enjoyed looking around. (Of course, he was planning to drag me around the battlefield for most of the day, so, he knew better than to complain)

After we had our fill of bears, we headed to the Gettysburg Visitors Center. We saw the Electric Map, which explains the three days of battle in Gettsburg on this gigantic map with lights. Joe HAD to see it. I even enjoyed watching the formations.

Then, we walked into town to watch the memorial day parade. It was such a neat parade with every war era soldier represented, including the women of the military.

After lunch, it was in the car to do our battlefield auto tour. I enjoyed learning about the different battles and seeing the monuments. So did Joe, he took a ton of pictures. There was even a clump of trees that he was excited over - something about the Gettysburg movie and the trees were there during the battle and that was where some big battle took place. Hey - if he's happy - I didn't care. I caught him smiling as we were driving around. Our 2-3 hour tour turned into 4 or 5, since we stopped A LOT to look at A LOT of things.

In the end, he was disappointed that we didn't get to see all of the battlefield and that we didn't find General Pickett's statue. There's like 2500 acres - that was impossible. We'll see more when we go back.

After our battlefield tour - we took a walk through the National Cemetary where the Civil War soldiers were buried and saw where President Lincoln made his famous speech. I was sad when we walked by the Unknown section of the cemetary - those families never had real closure.

By the time we were done with all of that, we were starving. We had dinner at Friendlys - it was funny, all the other nights, we had dinner in pretty nice restaurants, but I think I was just as satisfied at Friendlys as I was with any other restaurant - esp. the ice cream at the end of dinner (I'm easy to please, what can I say?)

[NicksBride]

oh it sounds so relaxing and beautiful!
Glad it all went off without a hitch. You even got breakfast in bed, I am jealous. I hope you got some R and R time.
I would love to get to Gettysburgh someday. It sounds beautiful! Thanks for sharing your honeymoon experince with us. :)

[StaceyMc]

Tuesday morning was breakfast with the other guests. This time it was eggs, bacon, croissants, potatoe bread and fruit (with flowers today....hahahaha). We had a great time talking to the newlyweds again.

The end of our relaxation was looming. When we checked out, the lady let us see a few of the other rooms in the bed and breakfast. There are 4 cottages, the Old Farmhouse (talk about a beatuiful place), the Master Bedroom and The Sewing Room. The Master Bedroom was occupied (by the newlyweds) but we got to see the other two places. Believe me, if you get a chance to go to Gettysburg, stay at Hickory Bridge Farm. It's about 10 miles outside of Gettysburg, but it was so quiet and enjoyable. In town was noisy and had a lot of traffic - although there were some beautiful places there as well.

We went to the outlet mall in the morning and then headed home. I was ready to go home and sleep in my own bed, but I didn't want to leave. It was back to reality. Back to laundry (good heavens did we have a lot of that) and back to work. BOOOOO!

We both enjoyed our alone time. We vowed to go there again, even just for the weekend so we can do our ghost walk and see a few other things.

[NicksBride]

aww its always hard to get back to reality. But at least you got to relax and enjoy your time together. It sounds just amazing. It is always nice to sleep in your own bed. haha

[Panthers Bride]

Sounds like an awesome time. Now I want to go there!

[StaceyMc]

I went to WalGreens to get the honeymoon pictures developed. There are 336 pictures from the Gettysburg/DC on the card. I almost fell over. I had the pics put on a CD and will order them online cheaper than 29 cents. WOWSERS! I was surprised! I guess I'll have quite a few to pick from to share with you guys!

[tiffany.marlene]

Hurry, hurry! We want to see!!! :D

[StaceyMc]

Hurry, hurry! We want to see!!! :D

hahahaha - you will all have to watil until tomorrow, at the earliest. I have to run back up after work to get the CD.

[NicksBride]

ohhh can't wait to see them! WOWZER you are as good as I am with taking pictures. hahaha

[StaceyMc]

WOWZER you are as good as I am with taking pictures. hahaha

That wasn't all me taking pictures. Mr. V. had the camera a good bit in the battlefield. Of course, I was snapping pics of our cottage before we left and he said "Do you work for National Georgraphic or something? You and that camera......"

[NicksBride]

haha hey, I say you can never take enough pictures! I took over 300 on our honeymoon as well and I love every single one of them. :)

[StaceyMc]

I really need to get some honeymoon pictures posted. The one of us together in front of the Dobbin House turned out nice. I'll make sure to post that soon.

I got my wedding gown back yesterday, all preserved, in it's box. Of course, I'm guessing that it's mine. I opened the first box, pulled out the second box, carefully untaped the plastic over the second box, opened the second box that had a clear window - however, the dress was wrapped in tissue paper. I can see some burgundy through the tissue, so I'm just assuming it's mine - although, I'm kind of ticked that the tissue paper is over it - what happens when my daughter (ok.......so I'm getting alittle ahead of myself) wants to see Mommy's wedding gown? I guess I'll figure that out later :)

[StaceyMc]

My job has be completely frustrated. To the point of me thinking that it's really time for me to make a move or a change of career.

I was out of the office for 4 days - 3 for the honeymoon/funeral, one for grandma's viewings. When I returned, as usual, nothing was done that I left for him to review and finalize. Everything that happened while I was gone, including phone calls, were left on my desk. Client's are complaining to me that no one was here until 11:00 a.m. or later on the days I wasn't here.

I returned to the office last Wednesday to have a client scream at me for three days over something I couldn't do anything about and her sending nasty e-mail messages about me and the office to the Trustee's office. I was furious. I'm proud of my work, I work darn hard for these people.

Yesterday and today, I came into the office to 7 telephone messages from my boss heaping on additional work - I'm still trying to get caught up from being away. The filing is soooo piled up.

Everyday he comes in later and later. He's constantly 20-30 minutes late for appointments - I really don't know why my clients even wait that long - I wouldn't.

Taking time off is useless - I'm stressed for a week or so before I leave and then spend a ton of time upon my return worn out.

Sigh - I just don't know what to do.

[NicksBride]

First off I can't wait to see the pictures I am sure they are amazing. I would imaginethat it would be your dress, but it is surprising that they covered it up so much! I guess whent he time comes I Would just rip it out of the box. :)
As far as work goes, go at a rate of speed that you can. People need to understand that you are human, you had a family emergency then you had a vacation that you planned awhile ago. They will deal. Just explain to angry cleints that you are sorry, but you were away and you will get their problems when you can. You can only go so fast. Just take a deep breathe and just tackle one task at a time. it will all get done. Sorry it has to take away from your relaxating from your vacation. But I am sure you will be just fine!!! GOod luck!

[StaceyMc]

Katy - thanks for the encouragement. My client's don't understand, nor are they patient. I had a client congratulate me on my marriage and then said (she was serious) "You aren't going on your honeymoon unitl you finish my case, right?" I was waiting for her to laugh, but no. They don't care if you had a death in your family, had an auto accident or whatever.....it wears me out.

I forgot to tell you guys about our surprise in our vacation picture. We put the pics in for two day developing at WalMart and as we're zinging through them real quick to see if we want to just print the all or go through 336 of them and pick (printing them all won out), a picture of a girl in a short ruffled skirt and a bikini top standing in the water on the beach shows up. Joe and I look at each other like "What that.....?" I said "That's not me!" Joe said "Were we at the beach?" lol We busted out laughing. I think it's a problem with their machine - I guess we'll see if she gets developed with our pictures. I'm going to remember to tell them at WallyWorld that there might be a problem with their 2 day machine lol. A guy could really get in trouble over that I suppose....lol

[NicksBride]

I hear ya on clients, mine just about went in a panic when I left. But as I tell them. I do have a life. hahaha


That is sooo funny about your pictures! I could just see Joe's face when you found that one. hahahahaa that could cause some major injury if you guys didn't haev such a good sense of humor. So funny!!

[Panthers Bride]

That sucks. Is there any way you could get some part-time help for during normal times, then when you have to be gone he/she can pick up the slack? I'm thinking no (budgets and $$$ and all), but might be worth considering? Sounds like there is enough work for someone else to help with. If boss is a cheapskate, maybe you could work out a deal with a local school, and get someone who is in a paralegal field of study and wants some real world experience, and willing to do an (unpaid, or lower paid) internship?

[StaceyMc]

Amy - You hit the nail on the head, my boss is a cheapskate. We've talked about an intern, but I always have work piled over my head. I remember being an intern and the paralegal and secretary always taking time to explain things to me. I'm afraid I'm not going to be doing the poor intern any justice when I can't stop at every moment to explain everything. Besides, they want paid - the boss wants someone free.

I just have to get over it or find something else. I've been here 8 years in July - I'm getting a little worn out. I'm actually checking into something that I can start to do at home and build up before Joe and I have a baby - maybe I can work from home....who knows.

Katy - Yeah, you're right - someone could have gotten into big trouble if I didn't trust Joe when that picture popped up. In fact, he told me last night that WallyWorld called and the pictures were done. Then he said "Wonder if the beach girl will be in the pack......hmmmmmmm....." and laughed. He's such a goof.

[NicksBride]

oh I would love to work at home, I would look into that as well. You can do so much work at home and if you and when you have a baby it will be nice to be at home with it and still making money. :)

Hope to see pictures soon. Hint hint. hahaha J/K:D

[StaceyMc]

Last night, Joe and I were going to dinner with his Uncle, who is in the area visiting from Charleston. It's a rare event. We never know when Uncle Dan is in PA until he's gone again, unless we happen to hear from his mom that he is in town. Luckily, he dropped off a wedding card for Joe and I from his daughter at my MIL's house and my MIL mentioned that Uncle Dan had been there.

Anyways, we were about a 1/2 hour early, so we walked down the street to a coffee shop/antique store and got a smoothie. They had the prettiest antiques on the store. As we're sitting there drinking and chit chatting, Joe points out a really pretty, really old baby doll cradle. I commented how pretty it was and said "If I knew we were definately having a girl, I'd buy it." As soon as I said the words, I knew how that sounded......hahahaha. Joe said "Ah, is there something you want to tell me?" Hahahahaha...I told him no, that I knew that came out wrong as soon as I said it.

I got a warm and fuzzy feeling as we sat there and talked about babies. I know that we want to wait until we've been married a year before we start trying, but my goodness the baby urge gets so strong for me sometimes!

[NicksBride]

awwww that is just so cute! I love moments like that knowing that we are going to be our own family. I know just what you are feeling and it is just VERY strong sometimes. But that is really cute to be talking about babies together. :)