B & S

Much like Blair and Serena on Gossip Girl, Brooke and Sarah can't spend too much time with shenanigans ensuing.  ;-)  I went to visit Brooke on Saturday, stayed until Sunday, and we filled our 24 hours together with plenty of fun and chatting!

First thing's firt, wine tasting!  We had some wonderful wines at Fox Valley Winery and then on to Taphouse for some beer before dinner.

As we waited for our dinner at Two Brothers Roundhouse, we enjoyed some freshly brewed coffee and self-guided tour around the beautiful building.

On Sunday, we headed to Geneva, IL for shopping in the cute little shops, and of course, more wine tasting!!

Parts of Man of Steel were filmed in Plano, IL where Brooke lives!

It was a wonderful trip and I can't wait to go visit her again when the weather is nicer and we can explore some more! :)

Omaha Revisited

Another trip to Omaha is in the books!  It was a wonderful time as always.  Though the drive does feel longer and longer every time.  But luckily, Ryan and I both had Friday off, so we took our time getting there, making a stop in Des Moines on the way.

Friday night, we grabbed some dinner and drinks at Jimi D's with our friends before heading back to Andy and Ashley's house to catch up.

Saturday, Ashley and I got way too many groceries and some coffee before grabbing a bite to eat at DJ's Dugout before Extreme Beerfest (our fourth one!).  I was the DD for Beerfest, so I dropped off Ryan, Andy, Alex, and Ashley and got some shopping in while they drank up.  Later that night, we got back to the Flater's and had a great time playing caps, dancing, talking, laughing, eating, etc.  It was wonderful, but going to bed at 3:30 was not ideal!

Sunday, we left Omaha before anyone woke up and we grudgingly took turns driving our tired asses to Iowa City, where we took a break and went to lunch with Ryan's brother, Michael.  We finally got home around 4:00 and I immediately took a nap!  It was well worth it. :) 

Monday Night Bonus! My friend Ashley J was in town visiting her boyfriend's family, so we spent several hours catching up Monday night. :) Perfect ending to a typical Monday!

Birthday Fun!

Happy Friday!  I'm super excited because later this morning, we're heading to Omaha for the weekend!  This is our fourth year in a row heading there this weekend for the Extreme Beerfest!  But the better perk is that we get to go visit our friends :)

Ryan has made fun of me because somehow my birthday celebrations always carry into the entire week, not just one day.  I'm not complaining...but it's not on purpose!  It's just when we have the opportunity to celebrate with various people.

Celebration #1
Sunday night, Ryan and I went to Bent River for some AMAZING beers: my favorites were the Raspberry Wheat and the Chocolate Imperial Stout.  Then we headed to River House for some wonderful food. :)

Celebration #2
On my actual birthday, Ryan gave me some awesome new Toms sandals, I was showered with cards and messages from loved ones, my coworkers got me an awesome cookie cake, and my family cooked me an awesome dinner and cake at night.

Charlie was helping mom do the dishes. :)

Celebration #3
Last night, Ryan's family took me out to eat and we had a very nice night together.  Of course, I don't have any pictures...boo!

Favorite Gifts I've Received:
1. My new Toms!
2. An orchid from Lindsey
3. Stila make-up brushes and some awesome jewelry from Emily
4. Money, always a wonderful gift :)

Now I can't wait for our weekend in Omaha...friend time!!! :)

Omaha Weekend Recap: Feb 22-24

I'm just a little late in this recap.  And it's so sad how quickly my memories flee, so I'm not even sure I can give you the regular breakdown.  Expect many more pictures than words this post :)

Friday: LONG drive, fun with dogs, fish fry, escaped parking ticket, Cards Against Humanity, good friends, and birthday treats!

Saturday: baked oatmeal, post-beerfest food prep, pretzel necklace assembly, bottle beer, lunch at Varsity, Extreme Beerfest, munchies, more Cards Against Humanity, funny games, good music, lots of laughs.

Rogue Dead Guy tattoos

Dancing to "Thrift Shop"

Playing "Three in the Hat"

Sunday: Slept in, bought the full set of Cards Against Humanity from Laura and Jason, lunch on the road, quick Trader Joe's stop, home!

It was a fun weekend...it always is in Omaha!  I can't wait for our next trip there, though it will probably be awhile.  Stupid gas prices!  Happy Monday!