Spring is Here

Last month I had a wonderful reunion with three Butler friends. Ashley, Megan, Miriam and I were all roommates for a good chunk of our time in Alpha Phi. I couldn't have asked for better roommates or friends during that time, and since my wedding 5 years ago we had not all been in the same room! Ashley is getting married this September to a wonderful guy, Pat, and we are all involved in the wedding in some way. So that we could get to know Pat, they came into town for a reunion dinner at Cafe Nora. The thing about good old friends is that it feels like not a day has passed since you last saw them. Can't wait for more fun at the wedding, girls!

Pat and Ashley


Miriam, Me, Ash and Megan


Recently, Miriam and I took a spontaneous trip up to Chicago to visit with our friend, Katherine, again. This is turning into a favorite mini-vacation of ours, it seems. Miriam and I had a great time shopping while Kat worked on Friday, we had a wonderful tapas lunch with Kat at 1492 as a shopping break, then a great Italian dinner and drinks afterwards. We're already planning our summer trip when we're determined to do some museums, architecture tours and sidewalk cafe dining! Thanks for being such a great hostess, Kat.






Random, but true, here is a great illustration of spring being here. This is from ONE dog - our short-hair shepherd, Luke.



Speaking of dogs, we had a bit of drama this week. Yesterday, two beautiful, SWEET Pyrenees/Collie mix dogs (I seriously guessed exactly that - watching all those dog shows is paying off, haha) literally walked right onto our porch. They had no tags and burrs all through their hair. I was really afraid they had been dumped, which was a common occurrence living in the country growing up. So, I notified area animal shelters, got them all comfy in our garage (our dogs were determined to make them playmates and our poor guests were a bit overwhelmed by this) and decided to take them to the vet to scan for a microchip in the morning. This morning I did exactly that, and sure enough one of them had a microchip! With-in half an hour I was receiving a call from an extremely happy owner who lives two miles away. They had been searching for them since 10 a.m. the previous morning. Lesson learned - get your dogs microchiped! We're doing just that this weekend!

Pixie and Stormy





And one more thing...If anyone knows the engineer that made this, please give me his contact info. I am desperate for something exactly like it. And does it come in a frisbee format, too?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xMISRVCAOfg

We Love our Dawgs

Just had to write a quick note to congratulate our wonderful friend, Brad Stevens, and the Butler Bulldogs on an INCREDIBLE and hugely entertaining season with their unbelievably young team. (That was a lot of adjectives!) Though they just fell to LSU in the NCAA tournament, their accomplishments this season (including sweeping the Horizon League Coach, Newcomer and Player of the Year honors) made us all so proud to be Bulldogs.

Thanks for your hard work! We can't imagine how exciting next season will be!

I had to include this visual aide that was sent to us earlier this season by Jason Brown. It was taken during Butler's win against Davidson in the Bracket Buster. Kinda says it all. Congrats, Brad!

A Valentine’s Day to Remember - Vermont, Part 3

We left Vermont on Valentine’s Day and stayed in Buffalo on our drive back home. We thought we had a great plan: Go directly to the home of the buffalo wing, Anchor Bar, for dinner, and then we had a room – no a suite – at a Super 8. (They take large dogs, thank God, so we always stay there while on the road.) Fancy, right?

Well, Anchor Bar was INSANE. We battled for a tiny table in the bar and thankfully got our plate of wings, despite the bartender deciding she hated Brad. (She really did!) I know a lot of reviews say there are better places for wings in Buffalo, but these were DARN good: great sauce, very meaty, not at all greasy, crispy skin. Mmmmm. I can taste ‘em now.

Then we headed to our “suite” at the Super 8. Thanks to what happened there, we now have criteria for a stay at a Super 8: It must be right on a (well-lit) highway exit and not close to any train tracks. Unfortunately, we did not know these rules yet.

While driving to the Super 8 we noticed the neighborhood becoming less than desirable, but we went ahead and checked in anyway. After the fun of walking the antsy dogs in frigid weather along the neighboring train tracks, and then feeding them in the parking lot, Brad had to leave me holding all three dogs and our luggage as he went inside to open the side entrance. I waited, listening to the background noise of yelling and bottles breaking on the road below. Hmmmm.

When my hands were finally frozen we lugged our stuff up to our “suite”, which Brad had specially requested. (How romantic.) It took us a while to find a light switch, but once the lights were on we were met with a confusing sight: a small living room area, a bathroom, a large common space with two tables and 8 chairs, but no beds. Was it a conference room? Who in this neighborhood rents the conference room at the Super 8? And for what purpose?

But no. We simply needed to notice the handles in the wall. That’s right: the handles in the wall. One simple tug and our lovely Murphy beds – two - became apparent. That is, after we moved the tables and chairs out of the way.

There wasn’t much to do but get ready for bed and wait for morning to come so we could get the heck out of there. It was extremely cold with only one thin blanket on the bed. We asked for an extra blanket, but apparently they don’t keep those at the Super 8 in north Buffalo.

Unfortunately, the dogs were less than pleased with our location. Usually they sleep very soundly and calmly, but every little noise made especially Luke bark. We’d be just about to fall asleep, ignoring our shivering, and Luke would bark. This went on for a couple hours. Desperately we considered just getting up and just leaving. Then Brad had the light bulb moment. He suggested getting down the second Murphy bed and inviting the dogs to sleep in the beds with us. Maybe that would make them feel better? Worked like a charm! Luke snuggled right up to Brad in the second bed and we all slept soundly. Luke’s favorite moment was when Brad put his arm around him in his sleep. That made Luke squirm around in dog euphoria: a rescue dog’s dream.

In the morning we did get the heck out of there. I was hoping the neighborhood would look better in the light, but no such luck. Our Super 8 rules were born as we drove towards the safety of Westfield.

Happy Valentine’s Day to us.

Anchor Bar, home of the buffalo wing


The wings were worth battling the crowd and the bartender.


Tables pushed aside, one of the beds still in the wall


Luke inspecting this strange discovery. No wonder he was disturbed that night!

Vermont, Part 2

I’m sure you’ve all been dying for more pictures of our Vermont vacation, right? You’re definitely in luck. Behind as always, but here are some more highlights of our great vacation last month.

Outside one of the huge antique malls near my parents’ place, Brad posed with a new friend.


People always ask if our dogs get along. Here they are being cozy in front of their first fire. The boys are even sharing a bed.


Luke and Cal really enjoyed watching some of the Westminster Dog Show.


For those of you who haven’t been to Vermont, it’s just like a postcard. Few chain stores. No billboards along the highway. And this is Montpellier, the capitol. Seriously.


We did a lot of cheese, syrup, coffee and ice cream tastings. The little family dairies are the best, but Cabot, which you can find in stores all over, is also great. And you can’t go wrong going to Ben and Jerry’s and Green Mountain Coffee. All in one day!




The dogs loved the sightseeing too, mostly because they get to ride along. Here we’re ready for another day.


All Brad wanted all week was a squeegee for the truck’s back window. Of course we found one at Dan and Whits General Store. (You have to go to a general store for most purchases in Vermont. There’s not even a Target in all of Vermont!) We knew Dan and Whits would have it. Their motto is, “If we don’t have it, you don’t need it.”



One of the highlights of any vacation to the Woodstock area is going to the Barnard Inn for dinner. Their onion rings are amazing. Believe it or not, Brad and I ate too much that evening.


Though it didn’t snow a ton while we were there, there was plenty left from the month before. The dogs had fun trying to climb the mountain in front of the house. There was no way to get in and out of the front door and even the windows were partly covered!




Another place where we love to go and look around is the famous Vermont Country Store. They have EVERYTHING. The candy selection alone is mind-boggling. And just to prove that they really do sell everything, I took a picture of one particular product.





I'll soon post a little bit about our trip home. It was priceless, and on Valentine's Day no less.

I’m sitting in Vermont as I write this. Brad and I are on vacation using my parents place near Woodstock. From what I have heard, it has been quite warm in Indianapolis since we left. The following pictures are from a couple weeks ago. We were supposed to just get 1-3 inches. That obviously wasn’t the case! You should have seen me trying to shovel our long driveway. I only made it halfway.





Recently I've been taking Gracie to Therapy Dog classes. We've completed the three weekend classes and now are going to work with her for a while longer before taking the exam. The hard part will be weaning her off of treats while training. There are no treats allowed during the exam and she is VERY food motivated! Next, we are starting the classes with Cal and Luke. I don' t know that our older-rescue boys will ever be able to pass the test, but the classes are so great and they learn so much. Shepherds certainly love a challenge!

Below, Gracie mugging for the camera as we practice different kinds of greetings. Gracie has to sit and stay right by my side while I shake hands and talk with different people, some of which may be holding dogs of their own! She is a star at this part of the class - never a mistake.


Practicing sitting and staying with all three at home.

Practicing down and stay


There will be more pics from Vermont coming soon, but these were soon after we arrived. Our dogs were completely amazed at the amount of snow. They thought they had seen a lot of snow in Indiana! But their favorite part was visiting the couple of cows down the street. (Ah, Vermont.) Gracie and Luke weren’t sure if they should guard us from them, but Cal froze, stared them down, and started slinking around, ready to herd. The cows were not so impressed (and already contained in a small fence).





Tell me this: Could you have a better night than watching a college ball game with some friends over dinner, grabbing some drinks and then going to hear a fabulous 80’s cover band while wearing a Jem t-shirt? I know, pretty fabulous. That’s what we did with Jason, Lauren, Ryan, Monique and some other Zionsville friends. Butler won the game and Hairbangers Ball were great at The Vogue. And my Jem t-shirt is classic. Truly outrageous.
Lauren, me

Everyone cramming into the Vogue to see Hairbangers Ball.

Brad, me

Lauren singing along - love that picture.

Monique,me

This Month in Todd Family Moments

My entry title this month is an homage to my good friend, Jen Toering Rawe, who EVERY WEEK sends out an adorable email, This Week in Maggie Moments. It highlights her daughter's funny moments and pics of that past week. Yes, this puts my blog attempts to shame. I had to do a whole month's worth of memories in one attempt. Here we go...Oh, and if you haven't check out my other recent post (Now and Then), it is worth a laugh or two.

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I had a lot of traveling for auditions this winter. I was happy to have Miriam accompany me to Milwaukee for a weekend audition. We loved exploring the city, shopping a bit, eating some really good food, taking a yoga class and staying a nice hotel. Fun spontaneous girls weekend. And the audition went well, too!
This December I had quite the crazy stretch of travel. In one week I was in New York (staying with Elizabeth and Keith, of course! Met Jenny out for drinks too at the oldest bar in NY – fun!!), Philly, Atlanta (missed a connection and had to stay the night), home, Chicago (girls’ day with Miriam!) and Fort Worth! Just in one week! Needless to say, I’m really excited that I don’t have any auditions planned for January. I’m ready to be a homebody for a bit.

On the way to Philly I asked a guy in front of me on the train where the best cheesesteak is. He said to forgo the usual tourist spots and head to Jim's at 4th and South. Not only was the neighborhood very cute with some good shopping, but Jim's was all I had hoped for. My audition was just OK, but the cheesesteak was GREAT!



Jenny and I went out with Elizabeth and Keith to McSorley's - NY's oldest bar. Here, Keith is recounting a great story about a rat that almost knocked him over. Ah, New York. And I'll take this moment to congratulate Keith and Elizabeth on their upcoming move! As of Feb. 20 they will be Indiana residents again. We're so glad to have you guys back!!!

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On December 20th we finally got to do something that in five years of marriage we hadn’t been able to do – throw a big party! We hadn’t had a housewarming event yet, so we decided to combine that with a big holiday get together. It turned into a family affair when my parents decided to come early before Christmas. Thank God! I could never have cooked all that food (for 30 people!) without Mom’s help. And Dad was great doing odd jobs around the house and running out for more drinks when needed. Bob and Bonnie were also a huge help. Bonnie made some of my favorite dishes and Bob played bartender/pool shark all night.

We had a lot of fun until the very wee hours over the morning. It was amazing to see so many friends from so many “worlds”. And they all got along so wonderfully! I know many people couldn’t make it home this Christmas, but we hope to see even more of you next year!

Thankfully, Jen took some pictures....Next year I'm going to scatter cameras around so the guests take care of that job for me!

Somehow Monique and I ended up arm-wrestling. I don't know the last time I arm-wrestled ANYONE! Thankfully, I was able to pull out a W, much to Monique's disgust.


Jason, Brad and Ryan manning the bar. In the punch bowl is Brad's party creation - The Cold Toddy.

Monique and Me, friends again

Elizabeth, Me and Miriam - Always a special moment when I have my two best girls in one spot!

Above: Kyle and Lexa, Sitting: Megan, James, Shanna and Kevin

Jenny, Ryan (and Ryan's holiday sweater), Megan

Shanna, Jen and Megan

Jen and Elizabeth - Elizabeth treated us all to her Nutty Irishmen shots, which were a big hit. Along with the annual party, I think that drink will have to annually be on the menu.

Elizabeth workin' at the bar

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One person that couldn’t make it home for Christmas day was my very own sister, Jenny! She had to work at the fancy-schmancy restaurant where she works in New York. (It’s really good – Red Eye Grill. Definitely stop in if you are in NY.) Well, while I was in New York in the beginning of December for auditions Jen and I got an idea. Tickets happened to be really cheap, so we bought one for Jen to come out just for the party weekend! We decided not to tell Mom and Dad and let it be a huge surprise. Was it ever! (Sorry you have to listen to my annoying laughing/talking/crying as I recorded the surprise. I need to learn not to talk while recording.)

After getting delayed for most of the day, Jen made it in around 8 on Friday night, the 19th. Mom and Dad were out to dinner, so when they got home around 10, Jen and I were just casually sitting on the sofa smiling as they walked in. A priceless moment. I had my video going on my camera, and below is what I captured. Jen, of course, was the life of the party, and I’m SO glad she was able to make it!

Waiting for Mom and Dad to arrive. Luke and Gracie guarded Jen carefully. They are big fans of "Aunt Jenny".



Mom's Surprise!


Dad's Surprise!


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A few days after Christmas I attended the baby shower of an old friend, Maggie Wacker Reed. Maggie, her brother Peter, Jenny and I all grew up together and our families were very close friends. As often happens, we haven’t seen as much of each other after our middle school/high school days. Recently we have gotten back in touch, even meeting up for a drink in London last year! It was so special to see Maggie and her husband, Tony, and Maggie’s mom, Cindy. Peter was home from California too, and it was great to catch up with him as well.
We can’t wait to welcome little baby Nadia Reed to the world!

Tony and Maggie opening their gifts.

Peter, Me and Maggie

Cindy and me


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We also had a wonderful time catching up with our good friends Dan and Matt, who live in New York. Dan and I were apprentices with Indianapolis Opera years ago and he also sang for our first dance at our wedding! Matt is from Indiana and we love that they come back now and then to visit. Miss you both!



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We've still been attending many Butler games since being back. I even got to meet the Bulldog! The 'Dawgs continue to impress this season - still only 1 loss and ranked number 13 nationally!!! We're so proud of Brad Stevens!


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Almost weekly Miriam, Jen Toering Rawe, Ellen Hughes and I organized a girls' night. Recently we tried a FABULOUS Mexican place near downtown on the east side - El Sol. It was as good as the Mexican I loved in San Diego! Can't wait to go back.
Jen

Ellen

Brad enjoying our leftovers, haha.

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My 31st birthday was January 12th and Brad planned a "Meagan's Day of Fun"! We had lunch in Broad Ripple, he suprised me with tickets to the Butler game, then surprised me again with Miriam joining us, we had dinner at L'Explorateur (as good as any place I've ever eaten - LOVED it) and finally drinks at Nicky Blaine's downtown - Miriam joining us again. It was definitely a day of fun.

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Recently we had some business in St. Louis. This was great because Polly and Andrew moved not too far from the city in Jacksonville, IL. I'd been searching for a weekend to go and visit them and this fell right in our laps. It was SO wonderful to see their beautiful new home, have lots of time to chat and catch up, and of course be amazed by Oliver. He's grown into such the little boy!

Dinner with P and A in their beautiful dining room. They made us an amazing meal with my favorite dish: Cheese Grits. Mmmmm.

Oliver might be the happiest, healthiest, sweetest little boy ever.

And he's starting to talk!