We're Hitched!!!

What a Weekend!! Eric and I are married, and I'm offically Mrs. Neuteboom!

It was fairy tale wedding and dare I say it....Perfect. I'm so in love with my new husband. Here is the first picture we've got. It's taken by my Aunt Pat and is our first dance together as a married couple. We danced to the Crumpleton's version of Van Morrison's Moondance. It was beautiful.

Summary of Wedding Weekend will Follow shortly . It was the best week of my life and if I tried to write it out now you would be reading this all day. I'll compose a summary and post it soon with more pictures.

For now, Thank you to everyone for all of the support and love you have given us. I hope you had fun, I know I did.

~ Mrs. Neuteboom!!!!!!

12 Days!!!!!!!!!!!!

Hooray! it is approaching fast. So fast I'm not sure what to do next.

This past weekend was legendary, I don't have the entire scoop from Eric yet but our Bachelor/Bachelorette weekend was filled to the brim with fun.

What did Trish do......... What didn't Trish do........................

Saturday:
I had a great "bedroom" shower where I got all sorts of things I can't talk about and then hit downtown for a night at the bars. I did really well too until about 1:30 when it was time for me to go home. Thanks to Tracy and the girls for taking such good care of me.

Sunday: I got a fantastic breakfast at Mirth with Mom, Dad, Jean and Heather and then went back to bed for several hours. I then spent the rest of the day lying on the couch watching movies that Eric never let's me rent!!! Woo Hoo!! house to myself. However, the joy of that wore off when I couldn't get any sleep, so today I'm still exhausted.


What did Eric do............

went to Vegas.... nuff said.


Wedding Update: We need Christmas lights, white lights with white chords would be preferable but I'll take the ones with green chords too. I ordered some online but they turned out to be green lights which is too Christmasy for my taste. So if you have any, and would be willing to let us borrow them. Give me a call!

~Trish

Wow.... So updating...about that....

Okay, so we created this blog to keep people updated on the Wedding. ................

and.............so we're 18 days away and we haven't posted in like two weeks.

We know we're fired. But don't fret! I have plans, wonderful plans for this blog and you will be so entertained you won't be able to help responding!!!

So Wedding Update:

We've started having wedding meetings weekly to figure out what still needs to be done. Overall we're doing really great. Tonight we're going to talk about the band and what music they will play. There are great plans for a Beatles vs. Stones set but the band knows way more then Beatles. Sorry honey! Beatles win!

Eric is still searching for the perfect Mother/Son song and I've got to figure out what Daddy and I will dance to ( the goal is to make him cry as many times as possible that day)

Itineraries are in the making so those of you in the family or wedding party will know exactly what's going on.

Will and Lucy have bought their tickets and we even get Lu longer then Willie which is great cause she's way cuter and Will's around all the time. I thought that guy moved to England....hm...

So that's the summary for Now. Keep checking back though because it's going to be better. I swear..

~Trish

Much to do

Okay so before you start. This picture has nothing to do with the Post but I really like it, and I like having pictures on the blog...... so enjoy.

Sorry it's been a while. Eric has spent the beginning of this week at home with all sorts of bad stuff. Most of which I hear is going around our circle of friends. Tracy and Mel, I hope you're feeling better! I think it may be headed my way next but I'm choking down airborne and trying to stay healthy.

So what have we been up to? well......We had a wonderful weekend in Lawton, Oklahoma. The service for Grandma Neuteboom was beautiful and it was very cool meeting all of the family friends. Since we've been back it's been a speeding train of productivity.

I've been crafty, making the flower girl baskets and mixing marbles. Also ordering as much as I can online. Sadly, only about half of it is actually what I want.

Eric and I booked our Honeymoon ( VERY EXCITING!!!!!) I'm especially excited about one of our excursions, Eric is going to FIGHT A DOLPHIN!!! Okay, so they call it "swimming with the dolphins" but whatever! We're also going to go on a Captain Hook cruise which includes a Lobster dinner, and dance the night away at the Coco Bongo club. We're both really looking forward to it. In fact, it is my greatest salvation when I get stressed.

Still lots to do, so much in fact I don't even know when to start.

School is going great, although my school picture on my I.D. card this year is as bad as it was when I was in Junior High. I have started my fall production of "Get Smart" I have a great cast and rehearsals are going well. The Wedding is right in the middle of the production.

That's about all I can think of for now. Sorry for the delay, I'll get on it!

~Trish

A Tribute to Grandma Neuteboom

This weekend Eric and I are traveling to Oklahoma to attend the memorial service for his Grandmother, Heidi Neuteboom. Grandma Neuteboom passed away in November during the Thanksgiving Holidays and she is already greatly missed.

Eric was very close to both is Grandparents and shares wonderful stories about traveling Europe, losing to Grandma Heidi at cards and holiday memories. I feel truly blessed to have had the chance to meet her and spend the weekend with her in Lawton, OK last year around this time. She was kind and REALLY funny, she also complemented me right away on my blue eyes, which always makes me blush.

Although we're sad to lose her, we are looking forward to celebrating her life this weekend. There will be lots of Neuteboom family to share memories and stories with and even a little Neuteboom on the way( Heidi's baby) to carry on the memories.

So to Eric,

First and foremost, I love you. I feel truly blessed to be able to be there for you in sad as well as joyful times. I can't wait to spend the rest of my life with you. We'll create the kind of memories and joyful times with our Grandchildren that our Grandparents have provided us. I know that your Grandparents and my Grandpa Stu will be with us on our wedding day, watching over us with huge smiles and hearts full of love. I can't thank them enough for starting these incredibly supportive and loving families that you and I get to join together and continue.

~Trish

Lightning Strikes for Bulbous

We Won!!!!!..........Seriously!!! Not only did we win but it was a REALLY good game. We won 18-17 or 18-16 ( no one is sure if their last run was safe or not.) I think we even almost played a full six innings.

Highlights: Our Hitting, Everyone was on the ball, literally. Also our defence, we've had some pretty good defence for a while but pair that with actual successful hitting and we're going to be unstoppable. We had not one but two Grand Slams, with in the park homers, and all kinds of rock star playing. I really should start writing softball updates on Monday because by today I've forgotten most of the highlights.

Wedding Stuff: We're finishing up the invitations and planning to stuff them this weekend and send them on Monday. If any one has ideas for clever and cheap favors let me know. Also, one of my bridesmaids ( Stephanie, who I stayed with in Denver recently) Is flying through Kansas City today and I'm super bummed because I have a really boring meeting and I can't meet her for dinner. Lame.

That's about all, My mom gets back on Sunday and I CAN'T wait to swap stories.

We have games at 6:00pm and 7:00pm if anyone wants to see the new and improved Bulbs!

~Trish

One of the Working Force Again

So I know you've all been seething with envy during my beautiful summer vacation. Alas, It has drawn to a close. Today is the second day of school and naps have become a fleeting memory. On Wednesday, the bright-eyed and confused faces of the 7th grade class swarmed the Halls, only to be followed by all grades on Thursday. That leaves today, The First full day of worthwhile teaching and man am I exhausted. The driving force at the moment is getting to the end of the day for TGIF at the new Mexican Restaurant in town.So far, I sound pretty bummed right? Well not true, I'm having a blast. It's exhausting and exhilarating to start a new year. So far, this years eight graders are a hoot and I've got lots of kids pumped up to participate in the fall production. It's been great seeing all my teaching friends again and my room has never looked better. I'm ready for this so......"Okay....Here we Go".

Wedding Stuff

Things are going great. Eric and ordered our wedding bands last week and I've got our marriage license at home in a safe place. We booked the flowers, talked to the musicians and are working on the ceremony, not to mention looking at Honeymoon locations! This is going to be such a fun wedding and I'm so excited to be Mrs. Neuteboom ( some of my kids are already coming up with nicknames, I don't think I want to know them all) We're looking forward to seeing family over labor day weekend and to each and every over 100 degree softball game. ( Softball highlights will follow next week).

That's about all for now. Back to preparing to sculpt young minds!

~Trish

The Lugnutz become BULBOUS

Hey All, The best blog writer is Back again. And yes with pictures which Eric doesn't have the patience for.

We are starting softball again on Sunday so you should have some updates this fall. This team is sponsored by Lightbulbs Ect. and there are a few additions and subtractions to our Spring/Summer team. It's going to be AWESOME! We're really looking forward to it.

There will be lots of double Headers ( good, more exercise) and it's a shorter season so I'll still have plenty of wedding planning time.

Okay so here we go.... To all of you in town, We play at the Clinton Lake Sports Complex om Sunday at 3:00pm and 4:00pm Come cheer us on!

In the meantime, Her are some pictures of our Spring/Summer team. Our Moral Victory photo and a team shot.

See you Sunday!

~Trish

The night that shoulda been...

Man, I'm excited.

Whooodamn, yeah!

Fo' real.

Royals. Yankees. Pine-tar tee-shirts. Denny Mathews and Cooperstown.

Scott Elart...wait, what the hell? Scott Elarton? That Scott Elarton?

No man, can't be.

Well, it was. Life as a Royals fan, what a kick.
_______

The future Mrs. Neuteboom and I went to KC last night (with the Gaus') to catch the Royals game. We - I - had high hopes for a great night. Beautiful night, beautiful fiancee, what else could anybody want? Besides tickets...

Yep, you guessed it, the game sold out. SOLD OUT!

Let that sink in for a minute. The Royals sold out the game! On Tuesday night! In July!

I can't even remember the last time that anything even approaching that ever happened (save for the obvious, Opening Day). It was an amazing, electrifying, fevered and charged atmosphere at the K last night, and everybody was feeling good. You could tell, there was something special in the air. That's part of the appeal of baseball to me. If you're lucky, maybe you'll see something special - a tell your grand kids about it kind of special. Sometimes it's a gut feeling. Sometimes it's a more obvious sign (like an endless pursuit of 756). And still sometimes nothing happens at all.

Last night was one of those nights for me.

Royals fans, finally united with hope, were out. A BIG time, full force, "hey kid fuck you Jeter sucks" kind of out. We were here together, we were ready to see something special.

And I didn't have tickets. Damn.

I didn't mind, actually. Sure I was disappointed. But...the game sold out. This is a good thing. This is foreign and new. I really didn't mind. But, just in case, pass me a beer...
_______

We ended up leaving the stadium (after some mild hassles by the parking people) and heading to the Isle of Capri casino. Why not, we thought, we were already in KC?

And there, at the casino, was where we heard:

7-0

Goddamnit!

The Yankees knocked Elarton around for 7 runs in 1 2/3 innings. I've spared myself from really looking at all the grisly details, otherwise I'd share them here.

I think the final ended up being 9-2 or something like that, but after such an utterly deflating first two innings, any momentum the crowd had was looong since gone. As the SportsGuy would say, it was a stomach punch game.

UPDATE: I heard on the news today that the Royals gave Elarton his outright release, which was sadly overdue. I feel bad for Elarton; by all accounts he's a really decent, stand up guy. But he just throws 85 right down the middle. Not good.

Anyway, it was a really depressing start to an otherwise promising game. Special things can happen in baseball (witness the amazing return of Jon Lester) and the stage was set last night for the Royals to win the game and give a gift to their fans. But they couldn't.

I guess this just means that when "it" happens, "it" will be all the sweeter.

But please Lord, don't let the Yankees make the playoffs.

It's the least you can do.

Well, golly, 'bout time you wrote something...

Geeze, wow...I mean, how long has it been? 3 Weeks? A month? Two months?!? I can't even remember my last post. And you know what? It's Trish's fault.

It is.

Here's how.

She's so wonderful and organized, that she even writes blog posts for me (basically). So, her wonderfulness has dominated my laziness, and hence, no posts from me. But I'm gonna change that, starting jetzt.

So I'm going to post a few random thoughts, a few wedding notes and anything else that comes to mind more regularly. We are, after all, only three months from the wedding. So, please forgive my absence, I promise to write more. Here's what's been on my mind lately:

- If only given one choice for a "beer to drink in the Summer," I'd forever choose a Pale Ale. No reason for anyone to drink any other beer in the Summer.

- How 'bout dem Royals! Lemme tell ya...this team is fun. They play the game the right way. Now only if they'd get rid of Reggie Sanders and Emil Brown.

- Our engagement photo/announcement was in the paper Saturday. Here's the link: http://www2.ljworld.com/couples/2007/jul/21/

- And Ryan Shealy. Man, fuck that guy. And Jason LaRue. Fuck him too.

- A few weeks back, I went to a surprise party for Jeff Heiman. His wife, Kendall, threw an awesome party, complete with prizes for the poker game. Ironically enough, Jonesy and I finished 1-2 (he took first) in both the poker and the beer drinking. Best of all, I won a copy of SuperTroopers! Usually I play for $$, but playing for alternate prizes was fun.

- Damn Bay Leaf, how long you gonna take? Sorry Heidi, your gift should be there by the time Gabe is ready to say "hi."

- Heading to the Royals game with the Gaus's tomorrow. It's George Brett pine-tar tee-shirt give-a-way night (bring your own hyphens). Gonna be fun; it's a Yankees game. I could be arrested.

- Bambino's Italian Cafe is going to cater the wedding reception! Trish and I are thrilled. We've made good friends with the owners, and they're great people. So do yourselves a favor, head over to Bambino's and have a drink or some dinner.

I can't think of anything else. I'm finally in possession of Trish again (I love the Victor show but I missed my baby!) which is great. We've got a backlog of DVR shows to catch up on, plus a new Big Love (awesome, awesome season) and a couple bison steaks thawing, waiting for my attention. Tomorrow, look for some Victor notes and the long-awaited results of the 3rd Annual Loaf Off.

Neuty

"Remember who you are, and remember who loves you."

~Dad

Free Victor Continental

He's Back! This Friday and Saturday, June 20th and 21st, at 10:00pm. Victor Continental will take the stage again. For those of you who haven't been yet. This is a late night sketch comedy show hosted by a very sexy M.C. I've been in the show for three or four years now. My brother Will has been a head writer since the beginning nine years ago. Which means that not only do we have a great show, But Willie's back in town!!!! Here are some great pics of his first night back. Starting with Nelson and Will coming up with brilliant ideas for the Show!


A bunch of us met up at Buffalo Wild Wings for dinner, including the folks. We then hit Harbor Lights.

Now back to Victor. Every year or so....Victor returns to Lawrence for more laughs and drinks. For more information, check out his My Space Page ( P.S. I finally have one too!) You can search by name "Victor Continental" For me, I'll just show you some rehearsal shots, a bit of a sneak preview. Here are some rehearsal photos of writing the opening number. ~Trish

Bridal Shower's Wee!!!

Hooray, First off the post is letting me title my entries again and that is a lovely thing. I needed a break from my very frustrating online course so I decided to tell you all about our first Wedding Shower.

Last Sunday, my Aunt Libby hosted a wonderful Family Kitchen Shower for Eric and I. It was lots of fun and Eric and I now have a plethora of recipes for dinner parties, not to mention some beautiful place mats and napkins. The guest list consisted of our families, and bridal party members who in the end will probably be roped into all shower experiences.

The party ran from 4:00pm-7:00pm and was a potluck where people brought the food and the recipe for Eric and I to keep. We got wonderful gifts and good family time. Most of my father's side of the family was able to make it. Eric had his Aunt Peggy and Uncle Don to represent his side, and my cousins Rachel and Nikki were there for my mom's side of the family.

It was truly wonderful and we were very grateful for all the love, recipes on a good marriage and kitchen items. For those of you feeling neglected, don't you fret, a Hawaiian themed shower is still on the way.

This one is of Irv and Betty Rosen who just celebrated their 60th Wedding Anniversary, they are so wonderful together. You think I can put up with Eric for 60yrs?

~Trish

Well, The blog isn't letting me put a title on this post so I'll just show some exciting pictures. Here are just a few things that DID happen on our 4th of July!

Happy 4th of July!!!

Agenda for today:

1. ~Blow stuff up
2. ~Play with Baby Keegan
3. ~Blow stuff up
4. ~Eat an amazing dinner, including Tracy's Deviled Eggs
5. ~Blow stuff up
6. ~Enjoy witty banter with Sean
7. ~Blow stuff up
8. ~Play outdoor American family fun games like catch, and boccie(American?)
9. ~Blow stuff up
10. ~Games and fun with Tracy, Sean, Jaq and of course Keegan

#1 Rule: Don't get fireworks near the baby and for Eric:

DON'T LITE ME ON FIRE AGAIN!!!!!!!!!

Here's what happened last year.

~Trish

Mrs. Heidi Wells!!!

We went to a beautiful wedding last weekend, the Lovely Heidi Neuteboom married Christopher Wells. It was awesome. The bride ( Eric's sister) was the most beautiful bride in the world and the groom looked good to!

It was extra fun because I was a bridesmaid and Eric was an usher. There is nothing like being on the inside at an event that is so important to someone you love. I'll give you a bit of an outline of our trip.

Saturday: We arrived and us girls took of for manicures and pedicures. I got to see Krista, Heidi's awesome maid of honor, and another bridesmaid, Katie. Plus I ended up with beautiful nails and toes. We then had a girls lunch which included Mamma Neuteboom, Aunt Nancy and Lindsey, flower girl extraordinaire. Eric spent this time drinking beer with his dad and taking a nap. That evening included a lovely rehearsal dinner at a great Italian joint, and a bridal slumber party where the girls and I played dirty Mad Libs and bonded. It was awesome.

Sunday: Wedding Day!!! Heidi and I got our hair done and then we all went out to the most amazing wedding site I have ever seen! The Secret Garden, it was incredible. We helped set up, got ready, got the bride ready and then witnessed a wonderful wedding. After that, we ate the largest shrimp cocktail I have ever seen and danced the night away. Eric requested Van Morrison's Moondance for me ( it's most likely going to be our first dance) and I taught him a bit of swing dancing.

Highlights: Well of course, getting Heidi married off!! I Spent lots of time with the girls, acquiring a wonderful new friend, Krista. Getting to know Eric's cousins, Keri and Randy.(Shown below) My favorite moment was when Heidi saw her father all decked out in his tux and they both started to tear up. It was such a great weekend.

On the way home we talked about future child names, Don't worry, that's a ways down the road

but with 8 1/2 hours through Western Kansas, you have to fill the time somehow.

you know we plan on more than just Norbert. My favorite was Angelina Neuteboom, Eric liked Nuclear Neuteboom. We have some more talking to do.

~Trish

Com'n, gimme a KISS DAMNIT!!!

This weekend, our near and dear friend Seth Jones (award winning photographer and Royals ticket giver) took some engagement photos for us. (Seth, again, thanks!). As we've not yet been able to review all the wonderful photos and choose a favorite, I thought I'd do the honors (sure hope Trish doesn't mind!). So, without further ado, I present to you the official* Neuteboom wedding engagement photo:

______________________

* - May not be entirely accurate

Vacation Contin.....

Sorry it's taken me a while to post this. As soon as I got home I had lots to do. And sadly, there won't be pictures as I managed to leave my camera in Colorado. However, Stephanie sent me this picture from her Camera. here's one of my bridesmaids!!!

Okay so the rest of vacation

Tuesday: Connie and I had a wonderful time shopping for all sorts of things. We met Heidi for lunch at a wonderful Italian place and then after further shopping, we headed home to watch movies. We watched a chick flick, in the middle, Heidi and Chris came over so I got a chance to say goodbye to Chris, and then we finished the movie. Actually, I should say that I finished the movie and Connie fell asleep....hmmmm.....Eric falls asleep during movies......I wonder where he gets that from???

Wednesday: We woke up, did a bit more sewing, then headed off to Castle Rock to have lunch with Stephanie, one of the bridesmaids. It was a wonderful lunch at a restaurant that used to be an old church. Very classy. Steph then took me to her place in Denver where we watched movies all night and got caught up. It was so relaxing and wonderful to see her. Plus, she gave me a bunch of new clothes that I'm super excited to wear!! Hooray for girlfriends!!!

Thursday: My day of departure. Steph drove me to the airport and I got home safe and sound.

It was such an awesome trip. I'm so glad I got to stay longer than Eric and be of some help. It was great practice for our up coming wedding! We'll be back in Colorado in a week and a half for Heidi's wedding. What a great summer already!

~Trish

Vacation makes for a Happy Trish

I'm sitting on my future Mother-in-laws computer checking my e-mail and helping sew bridesmaids dresses for my future sister-in-laws wedding and I am having a blast. Eric and I drove up Friday, stopped in Colby and arrived in Colorado Springs Saturday morning. And here are our adventures thus far.

Saturday: We arrived and were greeted by not only the warm and wonderful J.P. and Connie, but also my new bike! It was waiting for me with a bow as I pulled up. Hooray for birthdays. We then went inside to warm homemade cinnamon roles and an egg casserole. Then Mamma Neuteboom and I went shopping for Heidi's bridal shower gift ( Connie's not mine, I shockingly came prepared this time) and the boys fixed up Eric's bike so we can ride when I get home. Then Chris came over and we got to spend some time with our future brother-in-law. Most of this bonding time was accomplished over dinner with Heidi and Chris. We then went to see Shrek the Third which was fantastic. That about wrapped up our evening as Eric and I were very ready for bed.

Sunday: Bridal Shower Day. Eric and J.P. Left early for 9 holes of golf while Connie, Heidi and I prepared for the Bridal shower. It was truly wonderful. Krista, Heidi's maid of honor, Did an outstanding job of choosing just the right location, food, and games. Heidi got all kinds of stuff we want, (Making me REALLY excited to register) and I got a chance to meet a lot of new people that are much loved by the couple. We then came back to the casa had an amazing brisket and talked the evening away.

Monday: Eric leaves me (tear) He has to get back to work on Tuesday. However, I am not lacking in entertainment. Chris and Heidi took me out to a wonderful breakfast, which included fresh squeezed OJ ( mine just happened to have champagne in it). We then worked on favor boxes and bridesmaid dresses and got ready for dinner. We had a wonderful Sushi dinner and then us kids went to see the house Heidi and Chris are looking at and went Mini golfing! It was a blast. I even won! Eric would have been proud.

And that brings us to Tuesday. Since it's only noon and much more adventures are to be had. I'll save the details until I get home and I can fill you in on the rest of the trip. That will include a trip to see one of my best friends and bridesmaids Stephanie in Denver. You'll hear from me Friday ish. Hopefully with pics.

This is how we roll, pre-game style...

Words can not, in fact, do this justice. Only the photo can, beyeatch! Just remember, Trish played stellar outfield defense and went 2 for 3 during the game, and I pitched a gem and hit a game-tying, three-run homer after the photo was taken. So don't judge us...

Lugnutz just got a little more Nutty!!

"Did you win?" you might ask....... Sorta... A MORAL VICTORY!!!!!!!!!!!!
The lugnutz played the best game thus far last night. With two Double Plays, 8 runs and so much spirit we could hardly contain ourselves, we entered the final inning tied 8-8. Alas, a win was not yet fated but the moral victory of losing by less than 5 was euphoric.

Highlights: Jaq, having just walked down the hill at graduation and being now fully educated, was brilliant enough to take part in not one....but two double plays! Chops played a mean 1st base, Nelson played his first game beautifully, Dustin bled for us ( yeah, it was gross) And Eric hit an in the park home run bringing in 3 or 4 runs total!!! I didn't have much miracle in my part of the field but I had a good stop and got on base once. Overall it was pretty exciting to play like that. Let's hope this streak keeps going when we get back to it on June 6th.
Hope to get some fans out. Hilary was the best cheerleader EVER!!!! in fact. I'll leave this post with a final quote from Hilary.

"The Further you hit the ball, the slower you have to run!"

~Trish

Birthday Fun

It's official! I'm 25, Woo Hoo insurance break!

I had an awesome birthday from the Royals game to a fab lobster dinner (Although it didn't quite beat the lobster dinners at the Massachusetts Averill's house. Nothing is better then lobster fresh from the ocean) I received several singing voice messages and many birthday wishes. Thanks guys!! In terms of material things, I got some awesome loot. I got a new bike! ( thanks Neutebooms) Scene it Squabble: I challenge the Jones' to a game. And many other wonderful presents. Everyone made me feel so special and loved. Thanks!

Now WEDDING STUFF!!!!!

I have made a decision on the bridesmaid dresses. In the style of Audry Hepburn Breakfast at Tiffany's I'm going with black cocktail dresses. I'm going to buy scarves in the Burgundy color of the wedding and let the girls find a dress that fits their taste and style. The only guidelines are that they have to be able to wear the scarf somehow. I think I may also try to find cute matching shoes, We'll see. Next on the list, Catering AHHHHHHH!!!! any suggestions.

~ Trish

Happy Birthday Baby!

Well...the big day is finally here. After days...nay, weeks...of build up to Trish's second milestone birthday (with 21 being the first), the day has finally come. It's been a pretty good few days so far for her. Check it:

- Saturday, May 5: Someone who loves Trish very, very much (no, not Lerve goddamnit!) took her, her parents and about 20 of her closest friends to the Royals vs. Tigers game that night. Not only did I make my famous "Neuty Burgers," but I also made Jello-Shots (a new tailgate favorite and a real crowd pleaser), Sangria, guacamole and salsa. Truly a feast for kings...or the most beautiful woman in the world. In addition to the great food and fun in the parking lot, I also caught a foul ball for her! Well...retrieved. Stolen, perhaps. So what if that damn kid in the wheel chair was in my way...he had a helmet on. And he was standing between me and that ball, leukemia or not. Bottom line: I wanted it more. Okay...so that's a complete fabrication. But I did get a foul ball for her; Russ Gload knocked one into the stands just behind us, and it rattled around a bit before landing just below my feet. Pretty thrilling, actually. This is the third ball I've ever received, first one I've ever caught while "in play." Needless to say, Trish was quite impressed with my quick hands and obviously I gave her the ball. Perfect cap to a perfect day.

- Monday, May 7: Birthday shopping for Trish! I'm sure the prettiest girl in Lawrence will read this today, so I can't yet reveal the other presents I got for her. Suffice it to say I think I did damn good. And really, don't I need to? This is the woman who does my laundry, rubs my back at night, does the dishes, generally puts up with me, cooks, cleans and spends her free time doting on me. Tell me...how did I get this lucky again?

- Tuesday, May 8 (her real birthday!): We begin the day as usual, by hitting the alarm clock repeatedly. Shortly after we get up, Trish's parents call at the same time she was born, 7:27am. What good folks Ric and Jeanne are. Needless to say, this is one of Trish's favorite little traditions (especially now that she no longer lives in the Mountain time zone) and it made her already special day even better. And to top it off, they (Ric and Jeanne) are cooking dinner for us tonight...lobster. It's been years since I've had lobster, and I'm looking forward to this as much as Trish is. The only downer is that we have to spend 8 hours at work (and apart) today. Damn work! I want lobster! And Trish! More Trish!

So, that's mostly what our past few days have looked like (also, notice that this is the 25th post in honor of Trish's 25th birthday). I simply can't believe how lucky I've been these past few years. I'm just a normal, beer drinking, fun loving guy who happened to win the lottery. There's lots of people out there who are as lucky as I am, but nobody is any luckier. I can't believe my good luck sometimes. I mean, how many guys do you know with "love handles" and a beer belly who get to spend the rest of their lives with the most beautiful woman in the world, one who selflessly gives back to the community as a teacher? Not too many I'm sure. So baby, happy birthday, and thanks for making my life better every waking moment. You're a dream come true and I love everything about you. I hope your special day has been everything you dreamt of and then some. I love you I love you I love you.

~Bear

music in the air

4 Days till my Birthday!!!! I told you I'd start a countdown.

But alas, that is not the reason for this post. On April 20th, the teachers of USD 497 got together and put on a show called Foundation Follies. Mom and I sang a number together as did Hilary, Laurie, Mom and I. My dad, Charles and Chris played for us and we sang the night away! Eric and others came to watch and indulge in the free food and drink. It was awesome. Here are some pics of the fun we had.

~Trish

Change is on the Horizon

You know why there isn't a new post right? Because Eric is supposed to write about the Lugnutz game last Sunday but someone has been "busy" at work. Sadly, I was unable to play because I'm running lights for the Southwest Variety Show.

Anyway, I thought it was about time something was posted since April 23rd was an awfully long time ago.

MY BIRTHDAY IS IN 6 DAYS!!! Maybe I should start a countdown on the blog (tee hee). Most of you already know this but to those who don't, I enjoy birthdays. I like to hang out with others on their birthday and I love to be spoiled on mine. What! It's one day of the year when I can be as much of a princess as I long to be on the other 364 days of the year.

Anyway, Most of you may have received an E-mail about the birthday festivities. If not, write me a note and I'll let you in on the plans. Pictures will be taken, Baseball observed and good food and drink consumed.

Okay, Here it goes......In less then a week I'll be 1/4 of a Century Old!!!!!! And what does the future hold? The begining of my career, our wedding, and an insurance break.

Look Mommy, I'm a real adult!!

~Trish

More in the life of the Lugnutz

Well all, We had a double header this past Sunday against the First Christian Church and the Frequent Flyer's. Our playing was not perfect yet but we didn't lose as badly this round.

Highlights: After being harassed, Run over and almost getting into a very non christian fight, ( Nicely done Gaus) the Lugnutz came back with two beautiful runs in what could almost be classified as a rally. Hilary pitched a great first game and Neuty pitched beautifully in the second, plus he looked REAL good doing it! Emily made a flawless catch in the outfield and Chris made two ( on the first one he got so excited he forgot to throw it back infield). Sean, Chops and Dustin were of course flawless and Deena did a few cartwheels in the outfield, literally. I didn't have my best game yet but I had a whole lot of fun. Jaq took one for the team with a beautiful slide into second and Hilary took one in the shin while pitching. Way to take it girls!! Overall it was a lot of fun and we look forward to next week.

We could sure use some fans. Let me know if you wanna come out to see a game and I'll send you a schedule.

Wedding Update: Save the Date cards are on their way. I plan to put them in the mail on Wednesday for all of our out of town guests. For now, here's the awesome picture we put on them.

~Trish

Let's Go Lugnutz

Following in the great Averill tradition of athletics ( ahh the irony) Eric and I have put together a softball team. We began Sunday and played more like a comedy routine then actual players. We still have high hopes for the season.

Our first game was against an aged team by the name of the Seem-to-Be Hitters. If you know my father and my family you can only guess that he may have something to do with it, and you would be right! Not only are we in the same league as my father's softball team but we played against him yesterday and were schooled by a bunch of Lawrence's finest hippies!
We may have lost ( by the mercy rule) but, I haven't had that much fun in a while. I'd love to post pictures but the home computer is still sick.

Highlights: I ACTUALLY HIT THE BALL! And got on base! Eric rocked the field and got a controversial out ( He was totally safe) Gaus only fell once, Jaq had a wicked catch straight from the bat to her glove, and Hilary made a beautiful out on second base. Overall we hit well and our offense is pretty good, we've got some defending to practice. Chops, was a rock star and Greg was Everywhere! We all had a blast and played for fun. Plus Jaq said that I played better then Willie which is all I could ever hope for.

I should give a shot out to the old man as well, Ric got several great hits and coached 1st base beautifully-- the conversations between him and the dugout, namely Eric, were quite entertaining. It was fun to play against him. Well played old man.

Anyway, There will be many more softball stories to come with pictures to boot.

How do you like Deez nutz!! ~Trish

Wild Weekend? Oh Yes, it was!!!!

Hey All,
This past weekend was everything I hoped it would be!!!! Sadly, since our computer is having issues we don't have pictures to show you but I promise we will soon. However, I can recap our adventures.

Thursday night was a wonderful Girls night!! Eric showed up for a while, but the the estrogen surge was a bit too much for him. Friday night, with the Neutebooms in town we had a great BBQ at the Averill house. Eric smoked a brisket and it may have been the best thing I have EVER put in my mouth ( take that as you will).

Saturday we enjoyed a super chilled day at the ROYALS!!!!!! Woo Hoo Kauffman stadium! This may have been the first time I've ever been glad to sit in the full sun seats. Our boys in blue sadly lost by 1 run. However, I got a great blanket and fond memories from the game.

Sunday was a joyful Easter. Eric and his folks hung around Lawrence while the Averill's went to Topeka for Easter BBQ. The Egg hunt was great! The music was rockin' and we all had a jolly good time. After that we met up with the Neutebooms and saw the wedding site. Great ideas were hatched and more plans made!!!

After all this fun, Eric and I were pooped!!! So Monday night we lounged around and last night we had a great date at the best Chinese Food Restaurant in town! ( I won't say the name because of the wrath of the Jonsey!)

Overall it was as sensational Trip. Up Next, A new softball team begins the glorious journey through Lawrence Adult Coed Softball. Stay tuned for updates on our team. The Lugnutz!!!!

Peace out ~ Trish

Wild Weekend Ahead

Sorry we haven't been able to submit a blog in a while. Our computer is going through a lot right now!

First off: Here's a shout out and HUGE Congrats to our dear friends Tracy and Sean Derning. Tracy and Sean now have a new baby boy, born at 11pm last night!!!!! Hooray! Another beautiful baby to spoil.

So you may ask...... "Wild Weekend? Trish are you going to be on Teachers gone wild???" NO, quite the opposite, Family fun is in the works. My fabulous Cousin Shelli and her Beautiful daughter Sierra are finally making the long trek back to Kansas and I'm very excited to see them again. Also, along with them comes my fabulous Aunt to be followed by her drummer husband. On top of that, The Neutebooms are coming to town for Opening Weekend! It's gonna be Eric and I at the game with our Dads once again. Below is a photo of the last time we took our dad's to the ballpark. This is going to be the best weekend Ever. There will be lots of good times to share as well as pictures! Be prepared for a wicked fun blog next week.

So in Preparation, Here's a great pic of some of the fabulous people coming to visit L town!.

~Trish

Golf man, golf...

Last night was one of those great nights in Kansas, where the weather is wonderful and not yet too hot. I was able to play 9 holes at Alvamar with Seth Jones ("Jonesy") and Andy, a friend of Seth's a another fun guy to shoot a round with. I fortunately beat the both of them, shooting a 45 that was highlighted with a finishing stretch of par, par, birdie, bogey. (In the photo above, I nailed my drive on the uphill 6th, spotting the drive just a short pitch from the green in the middle of the fairway.)

I think I finally conquered one of my nemesis holes out there, the par-5, dog-leg 8th. I mashed a great drive (the big dog was barking LOUD all day, and I think it scared Jonesy's shitzu) that cut the corner on the dog-leg and nestled comfortably in the fairway. Sitting about 155 out I pulled the six-iron (the green is waaaay uphill, a very tough approach shot) and hit a crisp approach that left me on the green in two, with a legitimate eagle putt. I watched Seth and Andy dry hump the green (Seth was in the midst of shooting a score for which there is no number, and Andy blew his putt off the front of the green) so I left my putt a good three feet short, but made the come-backer for the birdie. Easily the best I'd ever played that hole.

The finishing 9th hole also provided a bit of controversy, as Jonesy maintained that on my tee shot I hit a bird in mid air (he had had a few beers at this point, as had I). To be honest, I hit the ball so far the naked eye wouldn't be able to see if it hit a bird, so I'm not sure if I did or didn't. I can only assume that in future rounds though I'll be greeted with a chorus of "bird killer, bird killer!" taunts from Jonesy. Once on the green, I did resort to my woeful putting though, and had a bad two-putt for the bogey. All in all, I felt like I struck the ball well, my putting just needs to come around. Always something to work on.

And also, Lerve, I need you to relieve the curse you placed on me on the fifth hole at Alvamar, or as we now know it, "the hole were Lerve went bat-shit crazy." You remember this, doncha? Profligate swearing and club tossing? Yeah, last time we (Jonesy and I) played this hole, I made a dumb mistake and mentioned your melt down, and I haven't scored less than a double the last two times I've played it (not to mention my awful, awful drives from that damn tee). So, I've tried everything, cursing your name, begging forgiveness, even "pouring a sip out for my homies who couldn't make it," but nothing works. So, do me a solid and lift the curse. Real chicken, fried chicken, whatever it takes. Just get Jobu off my back. Thanks.

Vacation, thou art so fleeting

So my lovely spring break is coming to a close and I have NO desire to go back to work tomorrow. Don't get me wrong, I love me job and I'm ready for the yelling at my 1st hour nightmares to stop but still........ Vacation was so sweet. So I thought I'd some up my spring break. First off it was awesome!

It began with a fabulous Averill road trip to Ohio (some of which is shown in the previous post) We came home Tuesday and I was greeted by my very handsome love. On Thursday we went to watch a triumphant KU game at Buffalo Wild Wings and discussed Softball team names over beer ( not always a wise decision) However, it was great to be back among friends. ( I love my family but they don't yell or swear as much)

I went to the second baby shower for my soon to be best little buddy Keegan and made onsies, A very clever idea which resulted in a lot of naughty things he will be wearing. I also got to have lunch at the taste with the GCSAA crew.

The home of course is a must for remodeling when one is on vacation so Eric and I tackled two projects. The first has been to re tile the bathroom ( this is turning out to be a slightly longer process then planned so you may not see us for a few nights this week) We also got a new ceiling fan which Eric is at this moment swearing at. I'm clearly not in the room for that!

Overall, We had poker nights, late nights and lots of fun. This has been one of the most relaxing and enjoyable Spring Breaks in my life. I have bonded with friends and family, lazed around the house, watched some wonderful and so crappy basketball, Set up a softball team and had one heck of a time.

I can't wait until Summer!!!!!! Teaching ROCKS!!!!!!

~Trish