Moving To New York

SPRING IS HERE - WELL FOR A LITTLE BIT

2010-03-22T18:35:00.000-07:00

This past weekend was beautiful and I enjoyed every minute of it. Friday, Lindsey got me out of the office (didn't eat at my desk) and we sat in the stadium, ate salads, enjoyed the sun and talked shop. By far this has been my favorite moment at the stadium.

Friday evening - Chris went and chipped around on the hole outside our house, I chilled with a glass of wine - a beautiful evening.

Saturday we had a quick impromptu BBQ - featuring my new steak burgers (huge hit)! New friends, spring in the air - life is good. Sunday Chris and I took the top off the jeep and took a drive through the Hampton's, visited a friend and hit up the wineries.

ST. PATRICKS DAY

2010-03-22T18:30:00.000-07:00

St. Patric'ks Day!!! My favorite holiday. Chris and I were invited to the biggest party in Town - the Forkin party. Tuesday night Chris meet me in the city. We went to an Irish pub next to the apartment and drank Forkin beers and some great Irish food.

Wednesday morning we woke up bright and early for the parade - put on our Irish green and headed out. First stop breakfast - if you know me you know I love and have to have breakfast. Then over to get Chris a new phone he broke his. After we were all settled we meet up with the Forkin clan. Upon arrival Forkin beers were in hand and we were enjoying this beautiful day.

Forkin Beer in a Bottle

Lunch was even better - corned beef, cabbage, carrots, potato's and Irish soda bread (I had 2 plates don't judge). The afternoon started to wrap up and I thought we were getting ready to head home. Nope I was wrong we ended up at johnny rockets. Next thing I know Chris and Jeff are on a mechanical bull. The stamp Chris got after he signed his life away.
Chris on the bull.

All and all the best St. Pattys day ever!!!

PS on a side note Chris finally got to eat chipotle - u would of think he died and went to heaven!

HELLO 2010, IT'S BEEN A WHILE..

2010-03-22T18:06:00.000-07:00

Okay I know its been forever since I have blogged. I really don't have a good reason other than life happened and I got into a routine. Ill give some quick recaps ...

November

Chris and I attended the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. Something I always wanted to do and Chris just humors me. We went into the city wed night and watched them blow up all the balloons. After that we went to a bar near the apartment. Around midnight - we started to see all the floats go down 10th avenue. At this point Chris looks at me with a straight face and says "Hey babe, we have seen the balloons and floats do you still want to go to the parade?" I gave him a look as are you serious, he just smiled and says "ill take that as a yes." The next morning we head to meet some friends who gave us the tickets. They also happen to be NYPD so we had a nice police escort to the parade! Who also took us all the way back home on LI (much better than riding the train). The parade was awesome and I loved it, I'm not sure Chris was as excited as I was but he hung in there for me.

I'm sure your wondering if I still cooked Thanksgiving dinner. Of course I did - check it out, yes that is a 14lb turkey for just the two of us.

December
The huge debate for us was do we decorate for Christmas or no? We were going back to Texas for the holidays. Well this was one battle I won and we decorated.

Back to Texas for the holidays .... Is exhausting. If you know me, you know I'm a planner and will plan every last minute! I have learned my lesson and will never do that again. I can say I did have the time of my life seeing friends and family - next time I will slow down a bit.
I left on Friday, December 18 to Texas to start out on a wine tour with some of my girls. It was perfect and a blast.

At our home Chris was leaving on Monday - poor Chris he was there for the blizzard and 18" of snow. At one point we didn't think he was going to make it to Texas - but he did :). We spend the rest of the week spending time with friends and family. Wish we had more time with them.

Welcome 2010...
Chris and I rang in the New Year with our new NY Long Island friends. We had a great time at Ray's house and I learned to play flip cup. Check it out, I even beat Chris in a one on one 6 cup flip cup challenge.

January
Our usually January for us, Chris travels a lot and I work. This year we did meet up in Vegas with our friends Keith and Katherine. We had a blast hanging out gambling. The boys even surprised us with a day at the spa and a show. Katherine and I have mastered craps and the slot machine sex and the city. (We didn't take one picture - bad)

February

Was pretty calm, cold and lots of snow. I did get to make my first snow angel, snowman and threw snowballs. I had a blast!

HALLOWEEN

2009-11-01T17:06:00.000-08:00

Just a few pics from the last minute Halloween Bash we threw.

YANKEE STADIUM

2009-11-01T16:46:00.000-08:00

Just a few pics of the stadium for the World Series!

I LOVE FALL

2009-10-25T19:16:00.000-07:00

I am officially in love with Fall! I am loving everything about Fall the apples, pumpkins, variety of squashes, pumpkin muffins, pumpkin beer, pumpkin picking, the leaves are changing and the cooler weather. Here are a few pictures of how great fall is in NY!

Chris and I in Port Jeff

Port Jeff Trees

Port Jeff

Outside our Front Door

BLACK TIE GALA @ THE WALDORF ASTORIA

2009-10-25T19:03:00.000-07:00

On Wednesday, I attend my first black tie event in Manhattan for the Montefiore Hospital Gala. HRC decorated a table, Rachel and myself attended to represent both the Times Square and Yankee Stadium location. Rachel and I joined over 1200 guests at the famous hotel with guest speaker Danny Glover.

I have to admit it was a but surreal getting ready for my first black tie event in Manhattan. Rachel and I leaving the apartment in Mid-Town, hailing a cab, pulling up to the Waldorf and walking into a black tie event. This will be a night I will not forget.

I know this is not a great pic, just want you to see th e size of the room

Rachel and I

The room, notice it is 3 levels

LETS GO YANKEES!

2009-10-25T18:51:00.000-07:00

I was fortunate enough to be invited to the 1st Playoff game in the new Yankee Stadium. As everyone knows I have not been much of a baseball fan all of my life - but I have become one very fast. I even have a few friends teaching me baseball lingo.

I love being at the stadium, the look, the feel, the field the smell of popcorn and hot dogs. I love it when it's empty but I can not describe how amazing it is on a game day - especially a playoff game day.

Of course the Yankees won the first round of playoffs. Below are a few pictures from the suite.

BACK TO TEXAS

2009-10-25T18:34:00.001-07:00

After my HRC conference, I headed back to Texas to go wedding dress shopping for my sister Helen. This is a trip I had planned for awhile and was completed devoted to her. I got in late Thursday afternoon, headed to my parents and passed out from the last few days at conference.

Friday morning we headed out for a nice lunch at Mariposa followed by dress shopping. We went to (2) place on Friday and was overwhelmed with dresses, then we headed out to the Witte to check on lighting and work on ideas for her reception.

Saturday morning we got up, headed back out shopping for dresses followed by lunch, more dress shopping and then bridesmaids dress. After overwhelming my sister with designers, cuts, veil and headpieces - we headed out to dinner with a few friends. Helen didn't get her dress that weekend but she did decide on one the following week.

I am so happy I was able to be able to be a part of this moment in her life. Below are a few pics - can't show you all of them (wouldn't want you to guess what dress she picked).

Me, Helen and Mom - headed out shopping

Lunch at Mariposa

Saturday with Carrie, Kari, Kristal and Helen

HRC CONFERENCE

2009-10-25T18:16:00.000-07:00

At the end of September I headed to Orlando with the rest of the HRC Sales and Marketing Team for our Annual Conference. This year, Conference was completely different for me and I was able to see things in a new light. I was able to catch up with old friends, meet new ones and spend time with some of the NY team. I know that sounds silly to say spend time with NY team, but since I am at the stadium I never see the girls (who I miss dearly). Below are a few pics of the great time had by all.

Tammy (San Antonio), Dee Dee (Universal)

Kim (Sacramento) Bob (San Francisco)
NY Team with Rita (HRC Ambassador)

Romy and I

WHAT CAN I SAY???

2009-09-23T17:23:00.000-07:00

So the past months I have not really been in the mood to blog. I have had a lot going on with family, work and getting use to our new surroundings. I just have not had the energy to write or even want to write. So here is a quick update so we can get back on track.

In August, my sweet lovely amazing grandmother passed away. I was fortunate enough to make it back to Texas to say goodbye and be very at peace with her passing. While I was there I had a chance to visit friends and see my in laws. This past weekend (September 19) I took another visit to Texas with Chris to lay my beautiful grandmother to rest. Peace be with you Grandma.

This August, Chris and I celebrated our birthdays as well as many of our friends/family birthdays. We wish you a Happy B-Day, Dad "B", Mom "B", Kaden and Keith (as well as many more). We wish you much happiness this year.

At the end of September, I had a chance to change positions from Times Square to Yankee Stadium. After many night of thinking and weighing the options I decided to apply and accept the position as the Sales and Marketing Manager at HRC Yankee Stadium. This was not an easy decision for me. I loved working back on a Sales Team and all the girls in TS took me under there wing and I will missing working with them daily.

On September 18, Chris and I celebrated 5 amazing years of marriage. I have to say I can't believe 5 years have already gone by - it still feels like yesterday we were just getting engaged. We had plans to go all out for our 5 year but due to a trip back to SA, we had to change plans. Chris turned what could have been a very sad anniversary into a perfect one. When we got back to SA he surprised me - instead of staying at our parents in SA we were spending the weekend at the Westin La Cantera - one of my favorite hotels in SA. We had a beautiful dinner and a great evening reminiscing of our wedding.

So now that everyone is up to speed, I promise to start blogging more than I have been.

MOM COMES TO VISIT!

2009-09-22T18:43:00.000-07:00

Labor day weekend mom came to visit and help me finish decorating the house. We had such a good time together.

Friday evening mom got into town and we made our plan for the weekend. She enjoyed her first NY white pizza and we just caught up. Saturday we got up bright and early went out to the farmers market and all my routine shopping places. She loved the farmers market and Breimeres were I like to buy pies. We then headed out to shop for the house and boy did we shop. That night we were to tired to go out so I made us Italian pepper sandwiches and we just passed out.

Sunday we set out to just decorate all day long. We rearranged the living room, set up the dinning room, worked on the guest bedroom and hung about million pictures on the wall! We were so exhausted once again (I don't believe in breaks)we ordered in, drank wine and crashed.

Monday was such a nice day all we did was last minute shopping, enjoyed lunch in port jefferson and made some homemade chalups.

I have to say if anybody should win mom of the year it should be my mom. She has gone above and beyond for me and never seizes to amaze me. Thank you Mom lovies you!

GARAGE ENTRY

GARAGE ENTRY 2

DINING ROOM

DINING ROOM 2

LIVING ROOM 1

LIVING ROOM 2

ENTRY WAY

HAPPY BIRTHDAY CHRIS

2009-09-01T06:38:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Chris!

This weekend we celebrated Chris' birthday! On Saturday, we went to have dinner and drinks with Deb and Mike! We finally made it to Kimi Sushi in Port Jeff (third time’s a charm), were we proceeded to order the right side of the menu, soup/salads, edamame, sautéed oyster, rolls and sushi. What do you wash it down with but lots of Sapporo and Sake!

If you really know my husband you might be shocked that we went to eat sushi, all of a sudden he is a huge fan - even enjoying eel! This is Chris eating his first spider roll - not sure he loves it!

Then we headed out to the bar next door to have a few cocktails! We really need to start getting Deb into the pictures!

Monday (Chris' actual birthday), Chris and I went to dinner at Houllians (which we love in SA) and learned it is not one of our favorite places here - but still had a good time. When we got home Chris opened his presents and we enjoyed some Mint Chocolate Chip cake!

(Sorry not the best pic)

Maddie, sweet sweet Maddie

2009-08-25T13:51:00.000-07:00

Yesterday the cutest little niece in the whole world started kindergarten. Ohh my heart broke knowing she is going to "big" school, I know I'm just her Aunt but she is part of my world. She made a new friend Emily (not Emily from little school - I was informed), she no longer takes a nap, did a work sheet on letters - she already knows her letters she informed me and had lunch. Then we talk about more important stuff what she wore. God I love this child - she wore a cupcake dress with polka dots in purple, pink and green. She then told me she wore brown shoes since her dress was brown! (She will eventually have to get shoes in all colors like ty ty - but soon enough).

This morning I found out she was in an archery tournament on Sunday. What has happened to my sweet niece? I move to NY and she's out of dance class and is now playing in archery tournaments (she did win, the second place kid was a 9 yrs old boy).

* Please note Scott and Bethany (Maddie's parents) own an Archery shop - so this is not random*

Madison after her dance recital - Perfect

Madison with her Pink Bow - not okay

I wonder why Bethany did not tell me this yesterday? I'll tell you why! She knew I would have to give her a small lecture. (Let me just say if Maddie wants to do archery I'm okay with that - but keep her in the arts as well).

Scott and Bethany we need to talk, remember that sweet beautiful blond child you have, the one that loves to be on stage, has great hair for a pony tail and looks super cute in her dance outfits? She needs to be in dance classes I'm begging you, to keep her in at least one class or gymnastics, it is great for coordination. After that I don't care that you let her play with frogs, have random pets for a few days (all I have to say is where is Dot?) and you give her a bow and arrow (I know great coordination). I will give Bethany some props she does dress her very cute in pink cameo with a pink bow and arrows.

Please think about what I said! Just one class PLEASE!

I won't start on Cooper yet, I will wait til he is 3 yrs old, before I give you my advice on what sports he should start with. I will just say I'm thinking football and archery. Maybe golf too, okay okay I will wait till he is 3 yrs old.

SICK HUBBY

2009-08-17T17:05:00.000-07:00

My poor hubby! Last Thursday, Chris called me at work and told me he wasn't feeling very well. That night when he got home he was right, the poor guy was up all night sick. (I was fast asleep while he was sick - such a bad wife). I woke Friday morning to get ready for work and found my hubby sick in the restroom, pale as a ghost and running a fever. So I said "That's it we are going to the ER." Which then he clearly stated "he was fine and was going to go to work." Why do men have to fight you on everything? Needless to say I won the battle and we ended up at our first ER visit! It took the nurse 6 tries before she could get an IV in Chris. (Chris hates needles). After a few bags of fluids we got to leave and he was on strict liquid diet for 48 hrs, that I enforced. By Sunday night he was as good as gold! Sometimes the wife does know best! (Chris is going to kill me for posting this pic).

BIRTHDAY!

2009-08-13T09:31:00.000-07:00

I am so blessed to have the life I do. This was the first year I have not been with family/friends on my birthday. I can tell you it did not feel any different. I had such a wonderful day!

I want to thank the sales girls. I have never meet a group of girls that are as supportive, loving and welcoming as these 5 girls. They have made me feel so welcomed in this new world I'm in. They have embraced me from the moment I started and have not let go! I had such a beautiful birthday at the office from lunch to the cupcakes and all the wonderful wishes! I will never forget how special they made me feel, I will always be grateful that I am a part of their lives.

My sweet sweet husband is the most amazing man. He made me my favorite birthday treat - chocolate cupcakes. I knew he looked high and low for my favorite sprinkles and when he couldn't find them he improvised and made cream cheese frosting (Yum - love cream cheese frosting). He even cleaned the kitchen perfectly - if you know me I'm crazy about my kitchen and I love it to be spotless. Then he planned a little b-day dinner with a few people. I had a great time and loved every minute of it!!!

I need to thank a few other people. Last week I ended up back in Texas. My amazing in-laws who I thought I was just going to visit threw me a little Birthday party! After the week I had I broke down in tears when they brought out a sweet little cake and sang. They are the sweetest family I could have asked for.

Then there is my friends who all came out on Friday to dinner and drinks. It was so last minute and I greatly appreciate it.

My parents my beautiful parents, who threw me and Joe a great b-day dinner. (I think it is fun Joe and I will start to celebrate our B-days together). It was so good and everything I could ever wanted! I greatly appreciate them not getting mad at us when we started a cupcake fight. Looks like Joe lost hahaha.

Words cannot express how appreciative I am to everyone that made me feel so blessed and loved on my B-day! Thank you!

SORRY ITS BEEN A WHILE

2009-07-30T12:16:00.000-07:00

Sorry, I haven't blogged lately! I have to say not much is going on, that is why I haven't been blogging. When I first wrote that sentence it made me sad, but when I come to think of it that is a good thing. It means we are comfortable and are settled into our new home. Everyone keeps asking how are you doing, is it such a big change? You know if you want me to be perfectly honest I have never felt more at home and real than I do here. Don't get me wrong, I miss all of my family and friends very much and think of them often. Maybe it's because it just Chris and myself. Think about it, I don't have any board meetings, committee meetings or as many activities I have to attend. Chris is actually home by 8:45pm every night and we have dinner together. In San Antonio, we were always "going" with work, entertaining or other commitments. In NY, it's just us, no agenda, none of the we have to be here by this time and then there by this time. We are just getting back to us being the way we use to be (you know the time when you first start dating). We have our own agenda now - each other - exploring our new surroundings and making new memories.

I have to say life is good, its been a long time since I have been able to say that I am this content!

Missing everyone and can't wait for you to visit.

VISITORS

2009-07-13T07:11:00.000-07:00

Last week, I found out I will be having lots of visitors very soon!!! I am so excited to see everyone and show them our new life.

First we start off with a visit from my MOM! I originally told her, I needed to get the house ready for family coming in, and was having a hard time decorating. Being the fabulous Mommy that she is, she offered to come in and help me finish decorating. (I am very blessed to have such a great Mom). She is coming in July 31 - August 3. This is when she will start to call me a slave driver, because we only have 48 hrs to shop and decorate.

Coming next is my sweet sister-in-law Bethany and the cutest niece in the world Madison. They will be here August 6-10. We will be going to Splish Splash, the beach and some touring of Long Island. I am so excited.

Then on to my sister!!!!!! So excited to see her, don't get me wrong I am happy to see everyone, just pumped to see Helen. We are going to have so much fun! I am sure I will be blogging more on all of these visits as well.

Just to recap some pending trips (hope this pressures them to come):

Kristal - is getting on a plane for vacation! I'm so proud of her. Now I think she should fly to NY before just to practice.

Jenn- she looks up flights daily, so I am sure it will be soon.

Carlos - around the end of August for the Blue October concert August 28.

Laura, Sarah and maybe Carla - October trip to NY and Boston.

The Zickgraf and The Lee's - sometime in FALL hurry up!

4TH OF JULY

2009-07-08T18:16:00.001-07:00

Out first 4th of July in NY!!

I will have to say Long Island is the most patriotic place I have ever been to. Everywhere you look you see an American flag (I am just use to seeing Texas flags everywhere).

We were invited to a BBQ at one of Chris' co-workers home (Ray). I brought my favorite dip (pineapple dip -reminds me of the lake with friends - thanks Kristal ) and some red velvet cupcakes (did not taste like red velvet more like short cake). Rays house was awesome it was right on the bay of the south shore, seriously 20 feet from the water.

The boys popped off some fireworks!

Deb broke her toe :(

Oh yea how could I forget the boys did keg stands, seriously it was funny but how old are we.
(picture taken once they were done - couldn't let Mom "T" see that).

Ray took us out on the boat later that evening. It was the first time I have ever worn a jacket on a boat on the 4th of July. It was such a beautiful night on the water. Had a great 4th and look forward to many more here!

YANKEE GAME

2009-07-02T07:26:00.000-07:00

Last night I went to my first pro baseball game (don't judge- I have seen Pro- football, basketball, golf- never had an interest in baseball) with the sales team for team building!! I have to admit I was very excited to go to my first Yankee game. I had no idea what to expect, except for die hard Yankee fans and lots of people!

The night starts off with dinner at an Italian restaurant in the Bronx. Let me just say they have these garlic knots, that are to die for! We all had a nice dinner and great conversation and headed out to Yankee stadium.

When we arrive at Yankee stadium there are hundreds of people in a sea of blue. Of course we have to take a picture of the team outside the stadium.(From L-R, Bryna, Rachel, Tiffany, Dani, Me and Kristen) Then we walk over to HRC in Yankee Stadium.

A few more pictures and we head out to find our seats!

Let me just say our seats were sick! I am guessing we were 15 rows from home plate.

I had to take this picture just for Deb. Everyone meet the back of Derek Jeter!

We all enjoyed the game, had a few very cold beers and munchies. I tried my first stadium hot dog and it was awesome.( If you know me you know I hate hot dogs - this was a huge deal for me to try one). Rachel got a yummy cheesecake on a stick. Why is it that anything on a stick is always great?

So toward the end of the game they played the YMCA. Not sure why they do this but it was fun.

The Yankee' ended up winning 4-2! I have to say this was one of the best sporting events/team building I have ever been to.

Yankee Team Building Game:
Hanging out with the Sales Team - Check
Cute Yankee Shirt - Check
Yankee Hat - Check
Dinner - Check
Amazing Seats - Check
Cold Beer - Check
First Hot Dog -Check
On the Jumbo Tron - Check
Home Runs - Check
Danced to the YMCA - Check
Yankees Won - Check

First Pro Baseball Game - PERFECT!

GREAT WEEKEND

2009-06-29T06:30:00.000-07:00

I had such a great weekend! The sun was shining, I made a new friend and got a sunburn.

Friday started off kind of blah with a serious migraine. Saturday morning, I woke up with no headache and sun lots of sun!!! I was so happy I could see the sun and go enjoy the pool. FINALLY its summer time! At 11:30am I head off to the pool, hoping to meet people that live in our community. Well I guess you can say I accomplished that. These two gentlemen in the early 40's started talking to me. Both were married for a little over a year to girls my age. One of the girls is Russian the other is from Turkey. One guy goes on to tell me how his wife needs to start adapting to America and appreciate what she has. The other guy goes on to tell me this is his 3rd marriage. By now I am totally thinking they have mail order brides. They continue to chat it up and try to move on to the subject of politics. OMG, I didn't think the conversation could get any worse. Then they try to ask me of my wifely duties - are you serious guy! If your wife ask you to vacuum help her out. I could go and on about the conversations we had, but just know it didn't get any better. As I am talking to these guys, I really want to flip over because I can tell my front side is frying. I don't because I would feel awkward with my butt in there face. Around 2pm I decide to excuse myself and head back home. I get home do a quick change and head out for my errands.

Saturday night we go out with Michael (Deb had family in town - she was out once again. Maybe we can get her out with us for 4th of July weekend - getting close to 3 strikes). Had a great night throwing darts and having a few adult beverages. I actually won one dart game (I do think Christopher and Michael let me win). Michael is some sort of crazy dart shark, if we ever play teams, I call Michael's team.

Sunday morning I get a call from a girl we meet a few weeks back, wanting to see if I wanted to hang out. I was so excited to go and hang out with someone and learn more about the Island. She came by and picked me up and we head out to the beach. We go to one beach that is really close to us so I could learn how to get there. Then we stopped off at a great deli in Port Jeff (I have learned I should just split sandwiches at delis they are huge). We then go to another beach that seemed much better then the first beach we were at. We hung out for a few hours and then decide to go get a quick polish change for our toes. Which then lead to a quick shopping trip at Home Goods and then Ralph's Italian Ice - the best thing ever! She then drives us around so I can learn some back roads. Had such a great day and I am really glad I meet her.

This was the best weekend to date! Looking forward to many more!

ROUND 2 OF NETWORKING

2009-06-25T08:05:00.000-07:00

Wednesday night I had the SYTA networking event at Planet Hollywood. I was so excited because I knew I might run into people I already know!

FYI - SYTA is the Student Youth Travel Association. I started attending SYTA events in 2005 when I was with Six Flags.

At 5:30pm Bryna, Dani and I made our way to the event and I couldn't wait to start chatting it up again. Bryna and I started out by observing the room and the she so kindly starts to point out people to me and the introductions began. I meet some great people and even one girl that just moved to NYC from SA in January. I also ran into a handful of people I already know. Had a great evening chatting it up with new/old contacts and look forward to more events soon!

I LOVE NETWORKING EVENTS!

2009-06-24T08:00:00.000-07:00

I love nothing more than to walk into a room full of people I don't know and start to work the room and meet new people.

Tuesday afternoon we had the NYC & Co. Annual Meeting at Lincoln Center in the Alice Tully Hall. It was like all Annual Meetings long and a lot of information. As I was sitting in a room with a couple hundred people, I felt like I was in a dream. Here I was in the middle of NYC at an Annual Meeting with hundreds of Tourism Professionals receiving an update in Lincoln Center. To top it off Mayor Bloomburg addressed everyone at the end. It is so surreal that I am now a part of this!!! This city is so amazing and has so much to offer. What makes it better is that New Yorkers love, appreciate and actually care about there City!

The meeting was followed by a reception and I was ready to start mingling. I walk out of the hall and immediately run into a girl named Zsuzsa, I met the first week I was here at a speed networking event. We grab a glass of wine head over to meet Kristen and some of the people she knows. I eventually start to make my way around the room and realize I recognize a few people from past conferences I have attended! Who knew, I actually did know a few people in NY! Toward the end of the night I run into this great girl I also meet at the speed networking event. We chatted it up the rest of the evening, and she should me how to get back to Penn Station at the end of the night!

Great networking event so ready for round 2!

POOR BUDDY

2009-06-23T21:00:00.000-07:00

Monday started off great, went to work, came home and got ready for Michael and Deb to join us for dinner. Chris and Michael came home with the head board from Pottery Barn (thank you for your help)! Deb texted she was going to have to pass (thats twice she has cancelled - hmmmm - I do think she was sleepy she did have a weekend of work and Sunday Funday).

Half way through dinner, I noticed Buddy scratching at his ear. When I went over to check it out I noticed it was slightly pink. I told Chris we need to keep an eye on Buddy's ear.

Tuesday morning, we start off by waking up at 4:15am to Chris' phone. It was the alarm company for the park (I'm thinking really it's 4:15am - if someone broke into the park - let them play; I need my hour I have left to sleep). I wake up again at 5:30am, feed and take out the dogs and start to get ready for work. Right when I'm getting ready to walk out the door, Buddy starts to cry and starts to scratch his ear. I go to look over and notice his ear is bleeding. Oh my poor Buddy!!!

I immediately jump online and start to call vets office to see who can take my sweet puppy. Well none of them open til 9am. Okay I am just going to have to wait til one of them opens. I call Chris and he tells me not to worry he will take Buddy to the vet, just try to get an appt. At 9am on the dot I call the Coram Animal Clinic and they can take Buddy at 4:45pm. At this point Buddy's ear stopped bleeding and he is taking his morning nap. I am feeling much better. (You have to remember Buddy is our stray and had many health problems when he first found us - so I am always concerned about him).

That afternoon Chris took Buddy to his first vet appt in NY he weighs 59lbs. (Lost some weight - I was told not be concerned - I am though), got some ear solution and antibiotic cream. When I got home that evening he was back to being my happy Buddy! Just 7 days of ear solution and cream and he will be good to go!

MINOR MELTDOWN

2009-06-22T07:32:00.000-07:00

When, I started this blog I promised myself I was going to be honest, and not sugar coat everything. With that said here is my honest story about the weekend!

Friday night was great, the train was on time and I was home by 7:15pm! Chris and I were going to Port Jefferson with Michael for dinner! We had a great dinner at a place called Pasta Pasta (super cute intimate place), shared a bottle of wine, great food and even better great conversations (including the one at the table next to us). After dinner we walked down what I would consider the main street. Lots of cute restaurants, ice cream shops and bar. Checked out the water and Connecticut which is on the other side of the water! It was a perfect Friday evening!

Saturday, I woke up with a serve migraine! Not good, I have not had a migraine in at least 3 months. I take some meds went downstairs and hit the couch to sleep. After a very restless nap, I knew I needed to get some caffeine in my system as well and try to eat something. (What I really wanted was a Sonic coke - there are no sonic in NY). I manage to drive to get some fries and a coke and head back to the house where I fall back to sleep. Around 3:30pm I wake up feeling a little better. I am not sure why I do this, but I decide I should go ahead and go grocery shopping. Off I go to all my usually places Lewin Farms, Cow Palace and another random grocery store (I will eventually have a set grocery store). I get home unload grocery and think to myself why didn't you just stay home and take another nap. At this point I'm starving (the few fries and 3 sips of Coke isn't cuting it anymore) which is a good sign that my head is feeling much better. I decide to make a super easy dinner, everything goes into the oven for 40 min and dinners ready. Chris comes home takes one look at me and says you look like you're in a lot of pain. Then I get the lecture why don't you just rest blah blah blah. We have dinner and I was down for the count once again.

Sunday morning, I wake up feeling much better just a little bit of a migraine drug hangover. I call my Dad, Dad "t" and my Papo and wish them a beautiful Father's Day! I make some breakfast and get ready for the day. I am going to go to Pottery Barn outlet to find drapes for the windows and some throw pillows. I have a great energy that day, I'm feeling better, I'm going shopping and all my errands are done! I get out to Pottery Barn around 1:30pm and start shopping. I spent an hour looking around and trying to figure out a new color scheme for our home. I find the perfect drapes and starting to look for throw pillows. I go and find a couch that is the same color as mine and start putting together different throw pillows colors, textures and sizes with the new drapes (I know this is weird but I always do this with my mom so we can get a better visual). I am starting to get frustrated because it is not looking the way I was hoping. I start to look around for someone else's opinion, when I notice it. Everyone in the store is with their husband, a friend or their mom and I was there all by myself. I started to melt down a little and had to walk out of the store to try to pull it together. After a few minutes I realize it I am not going to be able to keep it together if I go back in the store. So much for shopping!

I get back in my car and get a call from Chris he is off work and wanted to know if I wanted to meet for a late lunch. At this point he knows something is wrong and starts to question me, I don't want to talk about it because I am trying to hold myself together. We go to meet for lunch and I totally break down again. Without a hesitation, Chris says let's go back to Pottery Barn (if you know my husband he hates Pottery Barn or any home store - he always says "he doesn't care what the house looks like - its only a home to him if I am in it). He then says he wants to give his opinion on the pillows and drapes (by know I'm starting to laugh). He tells me you want a comfy warm house, I know comfy let me test out the pillows for you.

Back to Pottery Barn, Chris loves the drapes but hates all the pillows and explains to me they are not comfy! As we are walking out with our new drapes for the living and dining room we see a beautiful West Elm head board for only $20. You have got to be kidding me, it's the head board I always see and love and they have a King! Chris just looks at me and says if you want go ahead and get it. As I pay for it Chris comes to the conclusion it does not fit in the jeep. Chris just tells me not to worry he will ask someone at work to help him get it on Monday. (P.S. I am about to break down because I went back to the mode of we don't know anyone we are all alone).

On the way home he gets in touch with Michael (who is at Fridays with everyone else from Splish Splash). Chris calls to tells me he is going to turn around and meet them. At this point I am doing much better and very happy. I go home and start to make dinner and soup for Kristen (poor thing has to get her wisdom teeth out). As I am in the process of cooking dinner I started to receive a few texts from Chris and other people he was with, wanting to go to some place for dinner and drinks. I was so relieved I was not in the mood to eat what I had made. Chris came and picked me up, I put up our dinnerand we went out. It felt good to be back around people laughing and having fun. I am happy to say the weekend ended on a positive note!

LOST!!!!

2009-06-19T11:38:00.000-07:00

I was so excited today to go to Yankee Stadium for lunch with Tiff today. I was very confident to ride the subway and where to exit (I just went to the Stadium on Monday with Dani). Well that didn't happen.

I left the Cafe at 10:55am, walked the few short blocks to 42nd and 6th . I buy my pass, go down the stairs and see the "D" train and jump on. I put on my ipod and get ready for the ride. We start to go and I notice the stops seem different then when I rode the train on Monday. I think to myself you just didn't pay attention last time you were too busy talking to Dani.

You know the feeling you get when you realize your lost! Well it hit me like a ton of bricks when the subway was not under ground and we were on a bridge going over water. (That is not what happened on Mondays trip with Dani). So I calmly got off the train at the next stop (Pacific St), went to a Map and realized first of all I was in Brooklyn not Manhattan and I need to get back on the "D" train and go north as fast as I could.

It took me a few minutes (10+min) to realize I was on the wrong platform and I needed to be on the other side to catch the train to go back north. Once I moved to the other platform I had just missed the D train. As I was waiting for another D train a nice gentlemen was trying to explain to me how to get to Yankee Stadium. Once I was back on the D train I could get off at Broadway and then take the 4 to Yankee Stadium. Great I was on my way. So another 10 minutes went by til I caught another D train uptown.

Once I was on the D Train Uptown, I was feeling much better (It was a little shady at the last stop I was at in Brooklyn). So I arrive at the Broadway stop get off the train and get ready to catch the 4. WRONG!!!! The 4 does not connect at Broadway. I was going to have to leave the subway and walk a few blocks to catch the 4. By now it is 12:10pm and the lunch had already stated.

So I decide just to get back on the "D" or the "B" and go back to 42nd and call the office. The "B" train is the first to arrive and I get back on the train. This nice older gentlemen starts to talk to me, he just moved back from Europe and was on his way to meet his head hunter. Nice enough guy, as we exit the train he ask me if I am married, have a boyfriend or single. I told him I was married, then he says okay I am not going to waste a card then. Gross this extremely old man, just thought I was into him.

After the creepy old man incident, I make my way back to street level and call the office to let them know I am back where I started. They told me to scratch going to the Stadium and come back for lunch!

Well lesson learned today make sure when you go to Yankee Stadium you always go north!

STEROTYPE NEW YORKERS

2009-06-19T06:17:00.000-07:00

Before I left Texas, so many people told me New Yorkers are so rude, mean and I was going to be eaten alive! I have to say every comment someone told me is so far from the truth it is unreal. Anyone who made these comments 1.has never been to NY and 2. if they have been, they need to really come spend some quality time in NY.

If your lost or confused ask someone, they will answer your question and move on. (No it’s not like SA, when you see someone lost and you ask them if they need help). New Yorkers just don't hold your hand, you need to be independent and your own leader! I think that is the best thing ever. They just throw you in and you need to swim and swim fast.

Just be observant and watch what they do and you will get the hang of it. Don't stop in the middle of a sidewalk, don't use a golf umbrella in the middle of NYC (I have one and would never bring it to Manhattan), keep moving, keep your head up and be aware of your surroundings and you will be fine!

When you do tell people you are new to NY, the first response is " Welcome to NY". They immediately start to ask you where you are from and engage you in conversations. They also give you advise on things you should do, see or place to eat at.

Someone once told me they believe everyone should live in a place like NY or SF to experience life in a City like no other. I couldn't agree more with this statement. My thoughts and views have gone to a level I never even imagined. I only have my husband to thank for making this happen. It is a world I have always dreamed of and I love it!

A few things I have learned over the past few days:
1. If you want to know if a taxi is available, look to see if just the middle light on the roof taxi sign is on. (Thanks Rachel)

2. If you want a cab be aggressive, get out there don't stand on a sidewalk and half raise your hand. (Thanks Kristen)

3. The subway is super easy to get around on just be smart and pay attention. (Thanks Dani for the lesson on the way to Yankee Stadium).

4. Coat check is huge in NY, don't worry anywhere you go there should be one. (Thanks Bryna)

5. Take a cheap coat out on New Year’s you will lose it or someone will take it.

All and all New Yorkers are great people, they are just as proud as Texans, they have the same goals as everyone else and they have anything they want at their finger tips at all times!

THANK YOU & A FEW MORE UPDATES

2009-06-18T06:17:00.000-07:00

I just want to thank everyone for the warm wishes and support you have given us through this entire move and new chapter in our lives. I started a blog so I could remember this amazing times in our life. I never would have dreamed in a million years, so many of you would 1. Actually read it and 2. Comment/write us about it.

I thought I would answer a few questions everyone has asked us. I promise to post pictures of the house soon, its not in order yet. (If you really know me, you know I like everything to look perfect). It probley doesn't help I can't seem to find my camera, need to get a new one this weekend. We do love our new town home, its 2 bedrooms/ 2 1/2 bath with a garage. Everything uses gas, its amazing how much better you cook with a gas stove and oven! The house sits about 20 feet from the golf course (I think we are on hole 14) and 20 feet from a dog run.

The dogs are doing great, Buddy had a hard time adjusting to the leash every time he wanted to go outside, but now he has the hang of it. They are back into a routine (which they love) and Mocha still will not leave Chris' side when he is home. They are starting to make some new dog friends on walks, and I'm hoping to introduce them to Michael's lab soon. We are also looking for a new dog park at this time, still researching information.

Chris loves his new job and the park. It is so nice to have a husband at home who actually enjoys his job. If you know my husband he is very passionate about what he does and for him to work somewhere he loves what he is doing brings such a joy to him (I would have moved to another country to see Chris as happy as he is now). The park is only open 80 something days a year and he gets out of work early (8-9pm). Its kind of nice/weird to have your husband home at a decent time for dinner and not walking in the door when your going to bed or already asleep. (I only say weird because out of the 7 plus years we have been together, I think this is the most I have ever seen my husband during the summer months/our when a park is operational).

I hope you enjoy this blog and will do my best to post often.

We love and miss all of our friends and family in Texas!!!

FIRST NIGHT IN THE CITY!

2009-06-17T18:47:00.000-07:00

Tuesday night I had an MPI awards dinner in the city and I was going to stay the night in the city!

Getting ready to stay the night in the city is a another story. Since Chris and I are very lucky to have an extremely nice friend who lives in the city (travels all the time) who offered me his apartment Tuesday night since he was out of town. This way I wouldn't have to take a very late train back out to our home.

Tuesday morning I had to take my briefcase, a carry on bag and hanging cloths to work. Which means I have to take all that stuff on the train, through Penn Station then 10 blocks through the city. Good times for me. Luckily Dani, taught me how to ride the subway the day before. So I found the train I needed to be on, got on the subway and took the first stop to 42nd and 7th. Not sure why I didn't try this sooner it was super simple.

That evening Dani, Kristen, Rachel, Jenn and myself went to the MPI awards dinner. It was fun, the same as any awards dinner, lots of presentations and gets a little boring, There was one women who was acting like a fool so she was very entertaining to watch.

After the function, Jenn, Kristen and I went out for a drink. On the way to the bar, I got to see drunkin' Elmo (very scary stay away from Elmo). Kristen took us to her favorite Irish Pub The Perfect Pint (my Papo would be so proud). I did enjoy my first Forkin beer (Harp) and owe it all to Kristen!!!! We people watched, chatted it up and had a great evening.

At the end of our evening, Kristen taught me to hail a cab. We shared a cab, dropped her off at Grand Central and then I headed to the apartment.

I woke up the next morning to the window washers at the apartment. I think I almost had a heart attack when I opened the blinds to see the people above me washing windows,

I must admit, I loved waking up in the City! You walk out of the building and the nice doorman greets you with a smile. As you make your way through the city you see so many great shops/restaurants, people walking there dogs, people reading the paper - the city is so alive. I fall more in love with the city each and every day!

HELLO YANKEES!

2009-06-15T18:41:00.000-07:00

Monday was a pretty cool day at work. Dani and I went up to HRC in Yankee Stadium to meet Tiffany and take a tour. The cafe looked awesome, then Tiff took us on a tour of the stadium. I have never been impressed with baseball until today. The stadium was amazing (I know there is a lot of controversy over the new stadium, but I thought it was really nice). We got to go into the dugout and stand on the edge of the field. I decided today, I will route for the Yankees. So with that said I purchased my first Yankees hat and shirt (Los would be so proud). So here is to a new chapter and a new team. Go Yankees!

On another note, Dani taught me how to ride the subway! Feeling more and more comfortable each day.

ALL IT DOES IS RAIN....

2009-06-14T09:25:00.000-07:00

When I finally got home Friday night (the train was late - no surprise). Chris informed we were going to dinner with Deb and Michael in Port Jefferson. Sounded good to me and I ran upstairs to get ready (I had all of 5 min till they arrived).

So after freshening up, I go down stairs to have a cocktail with everyone. Well one thing lead to another and we ended up not going out, but ordering in. Not sure how that happened, Chris got on the phone with his mom (she had major car drama), starting pouring drinks and what I have learned is a must here the Yankee game was on. All and all was a great evening, but even better I was off the next day.

Saturday I slept in, my goal for the weekend was to relax and go to the pool. Well the weather had a different story for me, it rained. Ended up checking out a really cool farmers market (I will make that my normal stop from this point forward), then on to the butcher (who now calls me Texas) and the grocery store. Nothing much Saturday night Chris was exhausted, I made dinner and we just chilled on the couch.

Sunday, woke up way to early, 8:30am. Made some awesome breakfast tacos (thanks Donald for the tortillas), laundry and cleaned our home. Then off to find a decent tanning salon and nail place. Please note there is no chain tanning places in LI, just a bunch of random places. Thanks to Michael he recommended a place in Miller Place (really cute town less than 5 miles from the house). Went tanning, it was nice but I'm going to try out a few more before I get a monthly membership. The girl there was really nice and recommended the nail salon next to the them. So off for a mani and pedi, it was nice just really fast. As I was drying my nails, I meet a girl who is my age and seems really nice. She told me she would take me around and show me the area.

Great I might have made a new friend. Sunday night the same old same old, made dinner, hung with Chris and prepped for Monday morning.

DAY 5 IN THE CITY!!! TGIF!!!!!

2009-06-12T09:22:00.000-07:00

TGIF!!!

So you will never guess its raining once again!!! I will admit I don't mind wearing rain boots, they are comfy and cute. I now just need to get them in multiple colors and designs.

I am starting to enjoy the morning train rides to work; I drink my hot tea, listen to music and catch up on emailing friends!! Same with the way home, it’s the best time to chat. **To everyone who keeps asking here’s the deal: you don't talk on your phone on the train, no one talks on their phone** all you do is text or email. So, if you have blackberry messenger request me or I have goggle chat on my phone. My user name is tireyellen, I can chat the entire time with you.

So I am so excited for the weekend. Not sure if I am going to work on the house or just relax. I think I am just going to chill, grocery shop, tidy up and do some laundry. It is suppose to be nice on Saturday, if so I am going to the pool. Maybe I will make some friends.

I have an MPI awards dinner next Tuesday. So I need to find my cocktail dress, shoes and all that fun stuff this weekend. Ohhh and I need to start tanning again, looking a little to white for this Texas girl.

Okay so, another day at the office. Really enjoy working in NYC!! Hope I can start proving myself next week!

Great news, it is finally nice outside!! The sun is shinning and it is in the very low 80's. Hope it stays this way for the weekend.

So tonight we have dinner with some of Chris' work people. My only request not a chain restaurant! I am so ready for some cocktails!!!

Bring on the weekend!

DAY 4 IN THE CITY!

2009-06-11T09:21:00.000-07:00

Okay so I've decided only the first week of work I am going to blog, then I will just kind of recap the week unless something interesting happens.

So I have also decided if I'm not careful I am going to gain a million pounds in NY. First of all the amount of carbs NY’s eating in the morning is crazy. Between the bagels, pastries and doughnuts it’s no wonder they sleep on the train in the morning they are all carbed out. For example: Did you know most of the dunkin doughnuts also have a baskin and robbins in them. That is no good; here have some fried dough with sugar and ice cream with extra sprinkles. It is very true America runs on dunkin here.

So same old same old, caught the 719 to work at the Cafe by 8:45am. Was happy the very nice facility man at work moved my tray for my keyboard so I could move my monitor so people don't look at my back all the time. The phones are up and running and I love the new ones. Much much nicer and I have a direct line. I caught up on emails to all the contacts I made and tried to work on getting new business. Starting to get into my grove!

Funny thing happened on the 553 train. The same guy who sat right in front of me yesterday was back. I only noticed him because he has two what I would call a type of rug burn wounds on his forehead. He did the same thing as yesterday. Starts to read his business week magazine, mumbles the words as he reads, then falls asleep with his mouth wide open. Its classic!!!

So it is suppose to pour tomorrow, that should be good times again. Seriously when does it stop raining here? Everyone says this is not normal, guess we will see. Here's hoping to nice weather this weekend!

DAY 3 IN THE CITY!!

2009-06-10T09:19:00.000-07:00

So day 3 in the big city!

Interesting day today, started out finally in my normal routine, take the 731 into Penn Station then quick 10 block walk to the Cafe Get out onto the streets and of course its raining not hard but enough to need an umbrella. So open up the umbrella roll my jeans up and I'm on my way.

Due to the day before and the computer issues, most of the sales managers are working from home except for Dani and myself. I was going to follow ops today, just to understand general overview of the Cafe.

So the day starts out, I'm tagging along with an ops manager, having a great time! Well then we had an issue with a client who was having a breakfast that morning. No worries went to go help out the banquet manager, the client just misunderstood her menu and we were good to go. From that point forward I was put in the driver’s seat for Sales. I know they were simple bookings and quick site tours and helping a few tour operators it just felt good to do something I know. I finally didn't feel lost for awhile in such a big place. End of the day I caught the 553 home.

Here is something I don't understand, how can trains be so late? If I am 30 second late for my train at Penn Station or Ronkonkoma, I've missed it. So why is it when I take the Express train it’s never really an express we always seem to be running a few minutes behind. I don't care that the train in front of us is holding us up. Tell then to get there ass in gear. Everyone else has been on time to get on the train they should do the same.

Well off to head home to cook dinner, drink some wine and relax with the hubby

DAY 2 IN THE CITY!

2009-06-09T09:08:00.000-07:00

Okay so day 2 in the big city!!!It was pouring this morning on the way to the train station but I got to wear my cute new rain boots to work. After making my way through the downpour, I got on the train (got a whole row to myself that's a big deal). The train was late because someone was an idiot and couldn't get on the train.

So I arrive in Penn Station, stop at Starbucks (awake tea latte) and head into the City. Get out on 7th Avenue and 33rd St and its not raining. So there I am in my rain boots with my pants tucked in looking like MC Hammer but it was an easy walk today until I get to 43rd and see the cops blocked off the street. I thought nothing of it and walked into Hard Rock. I then find out there was a murder last night (they say that is a first) some pimp shot another pimp over some hooker.

I move on with my day to realize the computers, micros and phones are all down. So we ask our corp. IT guy what's going on. The corp. guy is in because we are getting new phones. So back to the point, there was a flood in our bldg and all the phones are fried. It is now going to take over 48hrs to get us up and running correctly and we work under ground so the cell phones don't work either. Good times good times!

At 3pm, I had my first networking event. NYC and CO. hosted the speed networking event. I talked to over 40+ppl in an hour and a half. I loved it! I made a new friend named Christine. After the event she invited me to grab a drink with someone she worked with. Yea I made a friend!!!

Then back on the 653 to go home!

All and all good day. Going to work with ops. tomorrow and learn how they operate.

DAY 1 IN THE CITY!!!!

2009-06-08T09:06:00.000-07:00

So my actual first day in the big city has arrived! I get up at 5:15am (if you know me this is a huge deal). I get ready and leave the house early because I need to buy my monthly train pass and want to take the 719. Get to the train station, park my car, walk to the ticket counter where I am expecting a huge line. Nope no line this morning and easily bought my monthly train passes.

I get on the train, make it to Penn Station and head uptown to Hard Rock Cafe. I arrive at the Cafe at 8:30am. Made it early and didn't get lost, starting off as a great day! Spent the first few hours setting up, taking a tour and meeting new people. Mid morning I meet with Dani, to discuss my background and what I would be taking on. The rest of the afternoon flew by and before I knew it was time to leave. All and all the first day was a great day. Not much you can really say about it, it’s a first day and just fly’s by.

Off to the train and oops I missed the 553 train and had to take the 621, so I didn't get in till after 8:30pm. Boohoo, so Chris and I decided to just grab dinner at a Ruby Tuesday. Then off to the house to get ready for the next day.

All I can say, for now is I love NY, my new job and my house. I'm super happy!

FIRST FEW DAYS IN NEW YORK!

2009-06-07T09:04:00.000-07:00

So yeah, we finally got to our home around 7:30pm Wednesday night. I'm not sure who was more excited to get out of the car the dogs or us. So after we settled in, Chris goes to pick up his keys from Mike and I start dinner. After a very simple boring pasta dish, we start to unload the small uhaul with the rest of my stuff and the dogs stuff. Twp hours later the uhaul is unpacked, my cloths are up and boxes gone!! I was exhausted and headed to bed, while Chris finally got his alone time (playing video games). Thursday I wake up at 12:30pm, I must have been tired because I never sleep that late anymore. Chris and I decide we are going to go into the city so I can practice riding the train and find work. I have to attempt because I am very intimated by the train. As it turns out it is extremely easy and I think I am really going to enjoy the commute. We get into the city around 430pm and head to HRC to meet all my new co-workers. A quick 10 blocks uptown from 33rd and we arrive in the city. Everyone was extremely nice and welcoming!! I felt at ease with the commute and now my new home at HRC. Chris and I headed back home around 7pm from the city. We grabbed a quick bite and settled in for the night!Friday morning, I woke up bright and early to lots of rain, the furniture was getting delivered that day, I needed to unpack the rest of my stuff. I make some breakfast, hot tea and settle in to watch Regis and Kelly, when the cable goes out. Seriously? I call the cable company and the nice guy on the phone tells me someone will be out that day sometime between now and 8pm. I finish breakfast turn on some music and start to get to work. Around noon, still raining, the guys show up to deliver our new couches (love them). I work the rest of the day on the house.

Chris got home around 630 that night, and told me we were invited to dinner with some of his co-workers, sounds good to me. I hit the shower and start to get ready, when I realize the cable guy still has not shown up. I finish getting ready and call the cable company to find the guy misinformed me; they were coming on June 8. I informed him that was not going to work; he said he would have a guy out from 11-2pm tomorrow. After all that was over we headed out to dinner. We met up at Chilies (the salsa was only okay but the Presidente was still good). After a few two many drinks we headed back for the night.

Saturday morning, woke up and got ready for the day and the cable man. After the cable guy came (which he really didn't do anything) the cable was fixed and I was heading out to run errands. First stop Goodwill, it was finally time to say goodbye to the ugly green recliner (you will not be missed), then off to a home store for a few small things and then the fun begins. I started grocery shopping.

So. after speaking with my neighbor and them recommending a farm stand and butcher I was off. I started at the Pumpkin Patch; it is a really cute farm stand on the side of a back highway. The produce and herbs were amazing and everything was perfectly ripe. Then off to the Butcher (The Cow Place), I think this place is the best thing in the world. You can tell them what you are cooking and how you are cooking the meat and they will cut it perfectly for you!!! After that I headed to a local bakery to pick up some bread and bagels (they are absolutely amazing), went by the wine shop to pick up a few bottles of wine for the week. Let me tell you about the grocery stores in NY, they are by far no HEB!!!!! They remind me of an old Handy Andy or Albertsons, definitely not up to par. I went to test out a new grocery store a Shop and Stop, not my favorite but will do for now. After 3 hrs of shopping I headed home to unload it all and start dinner.

All and all Saturday night was good, until the cable went out. Called the nice cable man once again, and they said we would have our 3rd cable guy out on Sunday from 8am-Noon.

Sunday morning, up once again bright and early to greet the cable guy who showed at 9:30am. It turns out he had to rewire our entire house and give us a new cable box! Yea, he fixed us and we now have cable. Finished the last of the unpacking, prepped for my first day of work and made Chris and I dinner.

So here I am ready to go and work in the City!

THE TRIP

2009-06-04T17:50:00.000-07:00

Today was the Day ...Monday, June 1, 2009

We woke up early; finished last minute loading said our goodbye to my parents and hit the road at 7:30am. First stop was to get gas then head out of Texas. (We did stop at Whataburger one last time in New Braunfels). We traveled all day, I slept most of the time and the dogs did very well. It is amazing how good dogs can be when you give them a little relaxation medication (yes, I got it from the vets office). Our first stop was Kansas City, KS to stay with our friends, The Fontenots.

We arrived right around 9:30pm, introduced our dogs to their dogs, visited for a while and then hit the sack. The dogs were in the basement with their dogs. Our sweet dog Buddy does not always do well in new places if we are not with him so Buddy would let out a bark ever so often. Poor Chris, felt bad he was barking and was worried he was keeping everyone up, so he went and slept in the basement with the dogs so they would stay quite.

The next morning we hit the road at 8:30am; we started in Kansas and soon made our way to Missouri. What a pretty state and very easy ride. Around 1pm we moved into Illinois, had a quick bite to eat. The dogs were resting peacefully the entire time.

Have way thought the state we came across a random cross in the road. I had to take a picture; Chris didn’t seem to want to stop. At 3pm, we crossed another state line we were in Indiana (hello Peyton Manning), and then the rain started!!!! BOOOOO!!!! It took us 3 1/2 hours to make it to Ohio. All the great time we were making we just lost! Around 11:30pm, we stopped for the night right on the state line of Ohio. The dogs were doing great and very happy to be out of the car.

DAY 3...Almost there
We started out a little later, since we were both tired and it was still raining. Of course you put me in the car, feed me breakfast and I am out. So when I woke up we were in Pennsylvania. With a quick stop for the pups and a quick snack we were back on the road. At 3:50pm we arrived in New Jersey and it is still raining. I know the drive today was supposed to be pretty, but all I saw was fog and rain. Right before we were headed into New York, we stopped to get gas one last time. Did you know in New Jersey, you can't pump your own gas? It is against the law, and no gas does not cost more and you don’t have to tip. How strange is that?

So at 5:30pm, we finally arrived in New York, and it was pouring. It took us an additional 2 hours to get home, due to rush hour and rain. Chris was starting to get grumpy but we finally made it home.

HOW IT ALL STARTED

2009-05-31T18:55:00.000-07:00

Let’s start at the beginning:

The last week of March, Chris and I were having dinner and he mentioned there was a job opening at a water park in Long Island that he was interested in. Of course being the supportive wife I am, I said sure you should apply. (If I am honest I never gave it a second thought, not because I didn't think he was qualified because I never thought we would move to NY). So Monday, came along and Chris told me he had a phone interview the next day. I wished him luck and told him he would rock. Late Tuesday afternoon, Chris called to tell me the interview went well and he was excited about the possibility. (I knew right then and there we were moving, don't ask me how I knew, I just felt it). Chris told me he would know something by Friday.

Friday morning started off normal; we got up, got ready and headed to work. At 10:17am, I got a call from Chris (I only remember the time because, I knew our lives were about to change). Chris called to let me know he received a job offer, and couldn't wait to talk about the opportunity when we both got home that night. The rest of the day was a blur, I just remembered that was the longest day and I had never felt more unsettled.

When we both got home that night, I knew it wasn't a matter of if we are taking the job and moving it was how we are going to do this. That Friday, March 28 was an extremely emotional night. All I really remember is crying for hours over stupid things like who was going to do our hair now, who will take our family holiday card and even cried because I thought Buddy might run away again. I guess I just need to let all my emotions out.

The next morning, I woke up extremely early and went to my parents (Chris went to work). When I talked to my mom she said she would make breakfast and to hurry over. On the way over I talked to my friend Sarah who had just moved to Maine. All I did was cry the entire time, Sarah my levelheaded friend, told me all the positive things and actually made me feel like I could do this. When I got to my Mom's breakfast was not even close to being ready. So as I talked to my mom (she cried). I help finish making breakfast. I don't remember much of that entire day except, I sat at my parents for a while and cried, eventually went home called friends, made dinner. The rest of the weekend was the same, hang at my parents, talk to my friends, cry and think about work.

Monday morning came around, and I had that awful deep pitted feeling in my stomach. I was going to have to tell my GM (a person I really enjoyed working with/for) I was leaving and moving to NY. So Monday morning, I sat down with my GM and gave him the news; he was so supportive it was unreal. From that point forward it was a whirlwind of a day, calling my DO, RMD and other corporate people. You are wondering why we had to call so many people; I was asking to transfer to the Cafe in NY. Later that week, I received word that Hard Rock Cafe Time Square would open their arms and accept me as one of the new sales managers.

Over the next week, Chris and I worked out details of our move. He was leaving 2 weeks from the offer date, and starting a week later. I was going to stay in San Antonio till the end of May when Chris would come back to get me.

Over the next two weeks, while Chris was in town, everyday was something, dinner with friends/family, cleaning out the garage or packing Chris. Before I knew it, it was April 15 and Chris and I were headed to dinner for his “Congratulations on your new job/here is too our new life dinner”. It was a great evening at Flemings (thanks to Robert and Patti).

Chris left for NY and I had (2) weeks to get ready for the movers and to move to my parents. With the support of my family and some great friends, we got the house ready for the packers/movers and moved me to my parents. On Sunday, May 3rd, the Clauser Clan helped me move into my parents. That is what I call the day of “breathing”; it was the first time I didn't have to worry about moving or finding a place to live. I spent all day in the parent’s pool with my friends Jenn and James, drinking wine, talking and taking it all in.

The next week the packers came then the movers loaded us up and our house was on the road to our new home. The weekend of May 15, my mother and I flew up to NY to see Chris and meet the moving van to move us into our new home.

When we landed in Long Island, I had never been more excited and nervous at the same time. All I knew is I couldn't wait to see Chris to ease all of my nerves. My first weekend on the island was great. I went to the park and saw how beautiful it was, saw our new home (versus the pictures I had just been seeing), found the outlet mall and had drinks with Chris and Mike.

When it came time to work, my oh my did we work. (I need to interject and thank my mother who is such a trooper and stayed with me the entire time; I am so blessed to have a mom like her). My mother and I unpacked over 140 boxes in one day. When we left NY, our new home was set up (minus decor); Chris had clean cloths and food in the kitchen. I finally felt like I had a home again.

The last two weeks in San Antonio was a collection of goodbye parties, dinner with friends, shopping, pool parties and prepping for our huge goodbye party. It was just what I needed to say goodbye to San Antonio in style.

On my last Thursday in San Antonio, May 28, I had dinner with our great friends the Zickgraf's and Lee's at Hacienda’s at 7:00pm. When I arrived I ran into the Lee's in the parking lot and we walked into the restaurant together. I was mid sentence one foot into the door, when I saw a man at the bar that looked just like Chris. I was so excited Chris had come into town 2 days earlier to surprise me.

Saturday, it was time for the big Texas Size Goodbye Party. Everything was set, food was out and ready, bar was set up Chris and Tirey Style (coors light, vodka, crown and scotch), Helen made an awesome Texas cake and friends and family were plenty. Chris and I said goodbye to all our friends, family and loved ones. We partied till 4am, I ended up in the pool fully clothed with Ed (holding my nose - thanks Chris), and had a great time visiting with everyone.

The next morning was brutal but I believe everyone survived. Chris and I went through all the amazing Texas gifts we received (I think we will be making fajitas for years). Then off to Madison’s dance recital (which we missed due to traffic). Once we arrived it was time for the big goodbye to the Thomas family. (That’s all I will say, because I still tear up every time I think of it). The rest of the evening was packing and getting ready for the (3) day road trip with the dogs to NY.

We ended our evening with the Lee's, Helen, Joe and Carlos at Pappasitos for our last meal. It was a perfect ending to our San Antonio adventure. We said our goodbye’s, again that’s all I will say. Headed back to my parents and got ready for the big trip!

OUR STORY

2009-03-30T13:56:00.000-07:00

So I decided to start a blog about Chris and I new adventure moving to New York. Please note a few things I am terrible at writing/grammar(do not judge) and I started my blog when we first made the decision to move, I am just now posting everything.

Hope you enjoy!