Hitchswitch-Blog

Tag: new last name

  • How to Host a Super Bowl Party?

    How to Host a Super Bowl Party?

    Where I come from, football is played with the feet, not hands. In fact, if you were to describe American football to a foreigner, they wouldn’t think much of it because, um hello, its 300-pound men in tights chasing each other for an oddly shaped ball.

    So, yes, even I can admit that I know zilch about football except for the name Tom Brady, whose face dominated my Instagram feed thanks to all the Patriots fans I surprisingly know.

    While my knowledge of football is lacking, there is one thing I am particularly good at that has nothing to do with the sport and that is hosting a party! The planning, the drinks, the DIYs (damn you, Pinterest, will it never end?), and most importantly, the food! You don’t even have to be a fan of football to host a party, because if you’re like me, you do it for the fun and the whole YOLO thing.

    via GIPHY

    If you’re looking to host the Superbowl at your home this year, I got you! Here’s what you need to know.

    Football Theme

    Don’t worry; your walls don’t need to be draped in NFL flags. A few simple ideas include football shaped cookies, plates and cups,  balloons with your favorite team’s colors, a table cover resembling a football field, balloon letters spelling “Touchdown,” and if you are really up for a challenge…a football-shaped cake. The possibilities are endless, and if you were to Google football themes, you would be overwhelmed with choices. The point is, there’s no need to overdo it or have the “perfect” party. By creating a football theme, you will be encouraging your guests and yourself to get in the Superbowl spirit.

    Set Up Extra Chairs, Tables, and Garbage Bags

    If you know how many people are going to be attending your event, then you know how many seats you will need. Since Superbowl parties usually consist of 10+ people, then you need to figure out how to set up your seating area! If you have couches, consider moving them aside and setting up only chairs. Believe me, if you care for your couches fabrics, you will do this. Your home will be full of men jumping up and down roaring at a television set, and SOME STAINS DO NOT COME OUT.

    via GIPHY

    Plus, it’s always best to be on the safe side in case someone brings a plus one with them. You don’t want half your guests sitting and the rest standing. To avoid a (bigger) mess, tape garbage bags to the side of your table or chairs so trash will have a place to go other than your floor.

    Make a Food and Drinks Bar

    Here is the best advice I can give you when it comes to food: do not overdo it. I’ve got two words for you: finger foods.

    Keep in mind that even though this is a gathering of friends and family, you won’t be all seated together, so there’s no need to fuss over what goes in their mouths. You buy some bags of chips, 24 pack cupcakes, two brands of beers, order some Buffalo Wild Wings, and relax. Set plates at the bar and everyone can stack what they want. Put the drinks in the cooler and throw a bag of ice over them! Boom! That’s literally it; you’re done.

    via GIPHY

    You can even ask your guests to all bring something along so there won’t be a shortage of food. If you’re the MS (Martha Stewart) type, then get cooking a day ahead so you won’t be flustered the day of.

    Have A Separate Room for Non-fans

    That’s me. I’m the non-fan. And I do know I’m not the only one so being the considerate person I am, I always set up a room that’s meant for peace, quiet, and casual conversation. Keep in mind it’s going to be a loud day and not everyone will be comfortable watching football. Some guests might bring their children with them so this room would also be considered a safe haven for them if they need a break or have to take a nap.

    via GIPHY

    Keep Children in Mind

    Most likely, more than a couple guests will bring their kids with them, so it’s best to be prepared. With that said, make sure you have kid-friendly snacks, juice pouches, and anything else that might help kids stay occupied. If you have an extra TV screen, set it up in the separate room and choose a few children films, so they have something to watch if they get bored.

    If you get overwhelmed about hosting a party, you can always ask a close friend to help you out! There’s nothing worse than feeling you’re alone in something, even if it’s just a party. If you’re confused about anything, always remember Google is your friend. By keeping these simple steps in mind, you’ll have a touchdown of a party!

    Did I use that right? No?

    Ok, I’m done.

     

  • Winter Honeymoon Spots

    Winter Honeymoon Spots

    When I hear the word honeymoon, my mind automatically wanders to white sandy beaches, crystal blue waters, and drinking rum out of a coconut. And of course, lots of sexy time.

    Hey, it is a honeymoon, after all!

    Even though most honeymoons are spent somewhere tropical, there are thousands of winter wonderland locations that fit the just married getaway profile! Leave your bathing suits (I know, I’m sorry) at home and pack up your snow boots and fur jackets, here are some of most beautiful places to spend your winter honeymoon.

    Riffelalp Resort, Switzerland

    Tripadvisor

    Yes, of course, the first thing on my list is Switzerland. Known for their edible chocolate gold and second longest life expectancy. Riffelalp Resort is located at an altitude of 2,222 meters within the ski region of Zermatt. It’s one of the highest rated and well-known ski resorts in Switzerland. The 5-star hotel is praised for its majestic interior decor, friendly staff, and breathtaking views (beautiful mountains including the Matterhorn). In addition to the luxurious suites, there is an outdoor pool, child care services, spas/saunas, and a rooftop lounge.

    For more information about this delightful location, click here.

    Fairmont Hot Springs, British Columbia

    Columbia Valley Pioneer

    Something we can all agree on? Canada is a must see for any travel purposes. The second largest country in the world holds some of the most beautiful landscapes and scenery including the Rocky Mountains, Niagara Falls, and Old Montreal.

    Fairmont Hot Springs is perched on the slopes of the British Columbian Rocky Mountains and overlooks Purcell Mountains. What’s more romantic than hot springs? Hot Springs and a golf course, obviously. It’s time to hit the slopes and immerse yourself in Canada’s largest natural mineral hot springs! So whether you want to hit the spa, the trail, or simply cuddle up in front of a lit fire enjoying a glass of fine wine, this resort holds much promise and unforgettable views.

    For more information about this winter paradise, click here.

    The Manor on Golden Pond, New England

    Kayak

    Are you looking for something more country? This New England resort is the perfect romantic getaway. I know when you first read the name, you’d think it was named after a New York’s Times best-selling novel. You got to admit, it’s an odd name, but this turn of the century manor sure caught my attention.  

    This luxurious country inn is located at the top of Shepherd’s Hills in the Lakes Region of New Hampshire. Their specials include a romance- honeymoon package that includes a full country breakfast each morning, spa lunch with champagne, and a 7-course menu tasting in their Van Horn dining room.

    For more information about this beautiful old English Manor, click here.

    Lake Placid Lodge, New York

    Tripadvisor

    Five stars, lakeside, rustic elegance, burning fireplaces, cozy mornings, and most importantly, fantastic food. When the lake is frozen solid in the winter, there are tons of activities to do! You can choose from ice skating to ice fishing to cozying up near an outdoor fireplace eating smores and drinking hot chocolate. If you’re looking for something more adventurous, you can climb aboard a dog sled and get pulled around Mirror Lake and view all the attractions this place has to offer.

    To find out more about this incredible location, click here.  

    Saariselka, Finland

    The Globe and Mail

    I saved the best and personal favorite for last. If you want to create memories that will last a lifetime and experience mother nature like never before, Finland is where it’s at. Among the several activities that include hiking trails, snowmobile safaris, and ski resorts, Saariselka is known for its incredible views of the Northern lights. To gain the full experience, make sure to head over to Igloo Village Kakslauttanen so you can stay in your own private glass igloo. Also known as The Wedding Chamber, this traditional earth lodge offerers the happy couple a “cozy love nest” and some igloos come equipped with a private sauna and heated outdoor jacuzzi! Imagine watching the Northern Lights from the comfort of your bed with your partner cuddled up next to you. Finland, you win this round!

    To find out more about what’s probably the best winter getaway ever, click here.

    While the list for winter honeymoon getaways is long and never-ending, always keep in mind this one thing before heading to your dream destination: as long as the love of your life is by your side, it’s going to be a great honeymoon no matter where you choose to go!

  • How to Keep Your Relationship in the Honeymoon Stage

    How to Keep Your Relationship in the Honeymoon Stage

    You did it! You made it past the stresses of planning the wedding and celebrated your magical day! You are now settling into your roles as a married couple. Now many couples start to worry that the newlywed spark will begin to fade. You’ve heard the many myths of what your relationship transitions into after the beloved ‘honeymoon stage’ comes to an end, and that can start to weigh on your mind!

    Although each relationship is very different and with various needs, holding on to these 4 core practices will help to keep that spark alive!

    Go all in with the little things

    With every relationship, wooing your partner is always going to be important. I mean who doesn’t love walking into a room full of roses, just for you? However, those can only happen every so often, we aren’t made of money! Taking the trash out, sending them a sweet text during their workday, or even buying their favorite coffee creamer will show your partner that you’re thinking of them!

    Add some mystery or you’ll be history!

    When you get married, it can feel as if you know everything about your significant other. From their biggest fear, to how they prefer their toast in the morning. As wonderful as this comfortability is, predictability does not get our juices flowing! Break your everyday schedule to go on an adventure, buy a new and sexy bra to sleep in, or even decide to turn off your internet for a week and just live in the moment. Break free from the mundane and typical schedule to keep each other on your toes!

    via GIPHY

    Never underestimate the power of personal space

    For some couples, this will be the first time they are living together! And this can bring on a whole new set of challenges. Don’t get me wrong, waking up next to the love of your life every morning will be amazing, but we all need some time for ourselves! Spend quality time reading a book, or maybe starting a cooking class. By the time you get home, you’ll be jumping into each other’s arms!

    Listen up!

    That last bit of wisdom to give would be to just be present! Listen to what your significant other has to say, and show them that you care. Listening isn’t an activity for you to just wait for your turn to speak, hear their point of view and actively respond to what they have to say. This is something that should be practiced every day!

    Please share your personal tips and tricks below!

     

  • Indoor Activities for Rainy Days

    Indoor Activities for Rainy Days

    One of the downsides of growing up in Southern CA is that we didn’t get much rain. We would experience light showers, but it was never so intense so that we had to stay inside. My childhood consisted of several trips to Venice beach and so many Disneyland visits to the point where I got tired of it. Yes, the happiest place on earth became the most dreaded place on earth for me.

    It wasn’t until I got hitched that I started to come up with indoor activities for my partner and me. Rain or shine, my husband wouldn’t leave the house unless it was work related. This took a significant toll on me considering I’m such an extrovert and need my daily dose of outdoors.

    via GIPHY

    So what did I do?

    That’s right; I made a list. Because lists are fantastic and whoever invented them needs to be worshipped like a god.

    Here are your indoor activities for rainy (or sunny) days!

    Movies Marathon

    Harry Potter. Boom, there’s your movie marathon idea. I joke, but seriously, it’s the first thing that comes to mind.

    If you’re a movie person, it’s time to fire up that VCR (people still use those, right)? Load up on your favorite snacks and grab your favorite person, even if that person is you. It’s time to cuddle up under your Spongebob wool blanket and watch your favorite films.

    Don’t forget the popcorn. It’s not a movie marathon unless you’ve eaten three buckets of popcorn by the end of each film.

    Read a Book (or maybe two or three)

    Anybody else have a shelf full of books they haven’t even started reading yet? Yup, that’s me. The guilt engulfs me every time I watch Game of Thrones for the bazillion time. You’d think I would have at least read the books because of my obsession with the series.

     

    via GIPHY

    But sadly, I am not wired that way.

    A good book, a cup of tea or coffee, and a comfortable armchair are all you’ll need to have the perfect rainy day.

    Spoil Yourself

    Two words. Spa day. I mean, why not? Everything can be made at home! The face and hair masks, foot soak, bath bomb, and even your infused (ok, spiked) drink. Here you will find all the DIYs you need to pamper yourself!

    Turn Up the Heat (In the Kitchen)

    I’m just going to go ahead and say it. I’m a monster in the kitchen.

    And by a monster, I do mean everything’s a competition for me. Even if there is no competition at all, I compete with myself.

    Self-driven is the word you’re looking for here. Pretending that I’m on Iron Chef is the only sure way to guarantee five-star food and a burnt/cut finger/hand. But you have to admit; time flies while you’re in Gordon Ramsay mode. It’s true what they say. You are your own worst critic.

    via GIPHY

    Remodel your Home!

    You finally have an excuse to move things around. If you have some portraits you want to hang, some carpets you want to lay out, or some DIYs you want to show off, now’s the time to do it. Let’s be honest, if you don’t get it done now, you never will.

    ….and 5,6,7,8!

    Got a Wii? Time to have a dance-off. If not, YouTube choreography videos and learn all the moves to Single Ladies. Hey, you never know when you need to break out in dance, and what says “I know what I’m doing” more than Beyonce?

    Answer:

    via GIPHY

    The list goes on and on. You can try painting, building a fort, have a scavenger hunt, online shopping, writing a novel, or something as simple as baking cookies. No matter what you choose to do, just make sure you’re not sitting around all day!

     

  • Bernadette & Conor

    Bernadette & Conor

    How did you meet?  

    (Bernadette) Conor and I met in Chattanooga, Tennessee where we both went to college. One night, my roommate at the time invited me to come hang out with a few of her high school friends and Conor happened to be there since they had gone to high school together. As soon as we met we knew there was an instant connection and we ended up talking and laughing that whole night until the sun came up.

    We actually just “hung out” for a few months before we officially started dating, but then on April Fool’s Day 2013 Conor asked me if we wanted to become serious. Of course, I said, “Yes”! Conor and I still mess around saying we have the longest running April Fool’s Joke there ever was. Maybe we should call the Guinness book of world records…

    First or favorite date?

    (Bernadette)  This isn’t our first date, or our favorite by any means, but it’s one that’s coming to mind as I think about this question. We had only been dating for a few months at this point, and Conor wanted to take me out on the town the night before my birthday. We rented bikes and rode around the city for the first half of the night, and then we decided to catch a late movie. We parked our bikes and it started raining as we were walking to the movie theater. We didn’t care at all and I definitely remember him singing happy birthday to me in the rain on our way. I thought it was so romantic!  

    How did he propose?

    (Conor) I had been planning for our engagement to happen in Iceland for months. I knew I wanted to do it early in our two-week trip so that we could enjoy the vacation as an engaged couple. So, I picked a few spots that I knew would be incredibly beautiful that were in the first few days of our trip.

    I was worried we wouldn’t be able to get to my first-choice proposal spot, a waterfall called Haifoss, but after watching the weather and roads for weeks beforehand I knew with a little bit of work we could make it there.

    Getting there was about a four-hour round trip from where we were staying into one of the most deserted areas on the south coast of Iceland. The road to the waterfall was difficult to drive on because it was covered with a large amount of deep potholes…we also decided to pick up a hitch-hiking Dutch couple along the way, but we all made it there in one piece.

    It was absolutely frigid on the edge of the waterfall, but it was gorgeous. I didn’t tell the Dutch couple my plan, but when I had a moment I coaxed B over to the edge of the cliff…she didn’t want to get too close to the edge for fear of me pranking her, but she reluctantly came.

    With tears in my eyes, I got down on one knee and proposed. Luckily the Dutch couple saw what was happening and snapped a candid photo of the moment. So, in front of only two strangers on top of one of the tallest waterfalls in Iceland, I proposed to her and she said yes.

    We celebrated by taking a swing of Icelandic Schnapps, Brennivin, and soaked in the moment. Had it not been so cold we would have stayed longer, but the weather got the best of us and we retreated to the warmth of our car; newly engaged.

    When did you know they were the one?

    (Bernadette) I knew Conor was the one when we decided to go on a two week long trip through Germany, Austria, and Italy only a year after we had been dating. Seeing how well we traveled together and how much fun we had actually sealed it for me. I felt like this trip was a true test of our relationship and it only brought us closer together. I remember when he dropped me off at my house when we returned home after the big trip, I missed him almost immediately. We will always hold that trip close to our hearts because it really helped us figure each other out on a whole different and deeper level…and five years later, here we are!

    Fun fact about the two of you?

    (Conor) We have a mini dachshund named Pepper Ann and she is practically our daughter.

    Most difficult part of wedding planning process?

    (Bernadette) Through our entire year and a half long engagement, I was finishing up grad school in Chattanooga and Conor was living in Nashville. On top of doing a long distance relationship, we were also planning our wedding long distance since my family wanted to have the wedding in Memphis. It was definitely difficult taking five-hour long road trips at least once a month to plan. About six months before we got married I graduated, moved to Nashville, and started a new job. This time of transition brought even more difficulties to the planning process, but luckily everything turned out better than we could have ever imagined!

    What’s your favorite memory from wedding day?

    (Conor) My favorite memory from our wedding day was actually after our wedding when we got back to our hotel. We were on cloud nine talking about how perfect everything went and we decided to read the letters we had written to each other out loud. We had read them earlier in the day before we had our first look, but we agreed that with the hustle and bustle of getting ready and sticking to the schedule, we didn’t really get to appreciate the letters like they should have been. Reading them out loud to each other was intimate and special and we both cried as we spoke. It was the first time all day we were really alone and were able to enjoy each other. I will never forget it.

    How did HitchSwitch make your post-wedding name change process easier?

    (Bernadette) I just started teaching 7th grade English and coaching the tennis team this year and it’s been crazy busy. On top of figuring everything out about my new job, wedding planning, being at tennis matches and practices almost every night, and planning for the next day, I knew I did not have the energy to figure out what I needed to get my name changed. I was ecstatic to find your service online to help make things a little easier. I have already recommended you guys to all of my newly married friends!

  • New Year’s Resolution?

    New Year’s Resolution?

    Forget It.

    Can you guys believe the year is finally over? I say finally because while 2018 was overall a great year, I’m officially ready for a fresh start. I bought a gym membership a month early, and I did order a self-reflection journal off of Amazon that if I’m being honest, will probably never use.

    The thing about New Year’s is that when the clock strikes midnight, most people think it releases some magical fairy dust that makes us more committed to any future goals. If only it could release some magic that reverses all the money I spent during gluttony season (AKA the holidays).

    via GIPHY

    So what’s it going to be this year? Are you going to finally join a gym? Buy a two hundred dollar juicer and go on a juice cleanse? Maybe you’re thinking of something more radical like starting your own band, stepping out of your comfort zone, and saying “I quit” to your asshole boss.

    Been there, buddy.

    New Year resolutions are a great idea, but if you’re not careful, they could damage your self-esteem as you move forward in the year. Like everything in life, creating goals comes with rules and a dozen questions.

    Are you ready to achieve this goal or are you merely doing it for the sake of others? Is it something you’re passionate about? Are you 100% sure it’s what you want to do? Are you prepared to wake up every morning with this goal in mind? Is it going to make you happy in the long run? If Plan A fails, what’s Plan B? C? D? You need to know what your backup plan is going to be if things don’t assemble how you originally planned.

    via GIPHY

    If not, your confidence will derail as you fail to achieve your goal. Setting goals are not only necessary for a successful life but overall mental health. There’s plenty of science to back that up, but that’s an entirely different article. To avoid any future disappointment in yourself, here’s the one resolution that you need to make this year: promise yourself you won’t make any resolutions at all!

    Yeah, I know it’s a new year, new start, new me, yadda yadda yadda.

    See, here’s the thing. Research conducted by the University of Scranton found that only 8% of people actually achieve their New Year’s goals. Talk about a colossal fail.

    But why is that?

    Think of it this way. A year has 365 days. If your new year resolution is to lose weight or eat healthily, then your obliged to be motivated and eat healthy all 365 days of the year. Sounds worse when I put it that way, huh? I mean, We are only human after all. When we focus on one thing and always keep going back to it, it will eventually drain us.

    via GIPHY

    The best thing about being human is we lack perfection. For example, an In-N-Out opened near the gym I go to, so you know what I do after every workout? Yeah, order a number one with a chocolate shake and animal style fries.

    I’m weak. It’s in our DNA. Being motivated every day is not an actual thing! In what world is that possible? There are so many alternatives that can motivate you and don’t require you to tire yourself out.  

    Here’s what to try instead.

    • Instead of waking up every morning thinking I need to lose weight, wake up every morning being mindful of your surroundings, being present.
    • Make a bucket list (I have ten, don’t ask)
    • Follow monthly challenges that improve your physical and mental health.
    • Try a new recipe every month if you want to be a better cook (Be the next Gordon Ramsay)
    • Isolate yourself from society and technology three days of the month (camping, retreats, spa weekend)
    • Commit to people, not things! Find who uplifts and supports you and make plans with them (coffee, dinner, hiking)
    • Say out loud what you’re grateful for every night before going to bed  (my job, my spouse, my perseverance)
    • Practice self-acceptance (I am worthy, I am loved, I am enough)

    Small goals lead to bigger goals! You need to accept everything as is in the present moment. Each day is a new start in which you can begin again and better yourself.

    via GIPHY

    No pressure to reach a goal weight, no pressure to make more money, no pressure to do anything. When you relieve yourself of all that pressure you piled on yourself, you give yourself a chance to relax, to breathe, and to make changes.

    Here’s to a blissful, successful, and marvelous New Year! Cheers!

     

  • Caleb & Jamie

    Caleb & Jamie

    How did you meet?

    Jamie’s brother actually introduced us! I met Jamie’s brother, Tim randomly at a bar through a mutual friend. We got to talking and he thought Jamie and I should meet, which we did about a week or two later.

    First or favorite date?

    At the time, Jamie and I were living in different cities. I was finishing up my senior year of college, Jamie was graduated so he was nice enough to meet me in my territory for our first date, which was essentially a blind date. We had dinner and drinks. We were both nervous, but once we got to talking – we couldn’t stop. The rest is history!

    How did he propose?

    It was a week before Christmas, we were at our home exchanging gifts ahead of our family holiday travels. The ring was hidden inside a brand new jacket. I put the jacket on and felt something in the pocket – I was shocked!

    When did you know they were the one?

    I lived in NYC for a year and a half right after college. Jamie was still in North Carolina. I knew he was the one when all I wanted to do was be around him, no matter the city.

    Fun fact about the two of you?

    We are both huge foodies, which I think is what made our dates so fun. Always trying new foods, restaurants, etc.

    Most difficult part of wedding planning process?

    The most difficult part was finding a venue that wasn’t traditional and worked with our budget. We eventually decided to rent out one of our favorite restaurants in town (Tandem in Carrboro) and get married there. Again, we’re huge foodies so we knew that we wanted to reception food to be on point!

    What’s your favorite memory from wedding day?

    Our first look! It was so special, and while we broke from tradition in a whole lot of ways – we decided not to see each other all day until that moment.

    How did HitchSwitch make your post-wedding name change process easier?

    We didn’t know where to begin! Being a married gay couple, we knew we wanted to have everything in order and leave nothing to chance. HitchSwitch was a huge help! We’re so excited to officially be Fernandez-Schendt!

     

  • Five Things to Remind Your Spouse

    Five Things to Remind Your Spouse

    Every. Single. Day.

    Women. We love to be appreciated. It’s an ancient fact, really, and I’m pretty sure there’s some hardcore evidence to back up that statement. While it’s always nice to be complemented by random strangers and family members, there’s always that one person (looking at you, partner) whose opinion matters the most. We may not always hear it from them so sometimes you have to remind them why they’re so lucky to have you. It’s called self-appreciation, baby.

    1. You can laugh all you want at the choices I make…as long as you remember you’re one of them!

    I don’t know about the rest of you, but my husband likes to believe he’s Alexander McQueen when it comes to my choice of wardrobe. His sense of fashion heightens as soon as I put on a new piece of clothing. And when I say heightens, I do mean he points, snorts, and laughs.

    Go ahead; laugh all you want at my yellow striped maxi dress. First of all, it was on sale. Second of all, it reminds me of bees and who doesn’t love those?? Plus, not everyone looks this wondrous in yellow so if anything, you should be thankful, buddy!

    Don’t get me started about when I decide to try out a new recipe. My husband saw my cookbook open on “Beef Wellington” once and his exact words were, “Isn’t that dish out of your league?”

    via GIPHY

    A dish is out of my league. As if we share the same physical attractiveness.  

    The love of my life, everyone, please give him a hand.

    Solution: The most mature thing you can do is remind him that you’re out of his league and if you can settle for him, you can sure as hell make Beef Wellington!

    2. I know I’m a pain in the ass, but look at it this way: I’m the only person who puts up with the farting, burping, and 2 AM conspiracy theories…

    You’re bloated, you got a tummy ache, or you simply have gas. Whatever reason, it’s not like I’m going to kick you out of the bedroom because of a normal bodily function. My love for you exceeds those reasons.

    But even though it might not mean a lot to you, you farting every ten seconds and me putting up with it is undeniably courageous of me. In sickness and in health, we both said that, so here I am accepting you in sickness.

    Now, you can’t sleep, and I don’t blame you, but then you get to thinking about the JFK assassination, Area 51, and the Illuminati. I’m all ears but…can we just watch this rerun of Friends?

    via GIPHY

    Solution: You may not know much about the fake moon landings, but you know you love your spouse to death so smile, nod, and repeat after me: “I know, right?!”

    3. Your kids? All me. Your breakfast, lunch, and dinner? All me. Laundry? All me. Clean home? All me. Your eternal bliss and happiness? All. Me.

    Seems a little silly (and obnoxious) to mention all of the above, but come on. You come home from a long day at work, and you’re greeted by one or two (three?) little rascals who have been waiting all day to show you their drawing of Barney the Dinosaur. Yeah, those sometimes angels came out of me so huzzah! The place is clean and sparkling, which I admit is rare, but look, I even made you your favorite foods!

    Or at least I think it’s your favorite foods; you could be lying to prevent hurting my feelings…

    via GIPHY

    After dinner, we clean up, wash up, put the kids to sleep, and you can cuddle right next to me and tell me all about your day.

    That is until one of the kids wake up…

    Solution: Send the kids to grandma for a sleepover. I know that doesn’t have anything to do with your spouse, but just do it.

    4. You will not find someone as brutally honest as me so yes, you’ve gained “some” weight and no, you’re not imagining it, sweetie. You’re officially going bald.

    The best thing about marriage is no matter how cruel you may sound; your partner will always know you have their best intentions at heart. With that said, you can always come to me for anything, and I do mean anything. You can count on me to still have your back no matter what because anything I have to say will be said straight to your face.

    Hey, it’s all love in the end.

    Solution: Always end criticism with a positive note and tone. I found ending everything with “-but you’re still my number one guy” usually does the trick.

    5. You can search the world inch by bloomin’ inch and you will never ever- I repeat EVER- find someone that will love you as much as I do.

    Pretty self-explanatory but I would stress this one. I’m always going to be your best friend. I’ll watch over you as a mother would, I’ll take care of you like as a wife should, and I will cherish you as long as you keep reminding me how I’m the best thing that’s ever happened to you.

    via GIPHY

    Then again, that’s not really up for debate.

    Solution: Start every morning and end every night with loving words and always make your spouse feel like the Superman to your Superwoman.

     

  • Taylor & Erik

    Taylor & Erik

    How did you meet?

    Erik and I met in Junior High School.. Seems like forever ago! We were introduced by some mutual friends and began dating soon after that!  I was the Chatty Cathy one and he was the quiet one! Opposites attract right!?

    First or favorite date?

    My favorite date would be all of them! We are a pretty low key couple.. So any dinner and movie or double date night at a brewery or sports games are usually my most memorable and favorites! Because.. Who doesn’t love food and beer!?

    How did he propose?

    Erik proposed in Crosslake, MN on the dock in front of our favorite spot and lake! Family and friends were there to celebrate with us that day and through the following week. It was the best!… besides I had PJs on and slim to no makeup!!! LOL!

    When did you know they were the one?

    I think I knew Erik was the one in high school- it just felt easy and right!

    Fun fact about the two of you?

    Fun fact.. We dated for 11 years before we got married! Nothing like knowing exactly what you’re getting yourself into 🙂 hahaha!

    Most difficult part of wedding planning process?

    Most difficult part was definitely all the little things.. My checklist the last 3 weeks before the wedding was two pages long.. So, maybe I was a little bit behind!! 😉

    What’s your favorite memory from wedding day?

    My favorite memory of the day was seconds after Erik and I read our vows to each other I looked out to the audience and saw ALL of our favorite people in ONE place to celebrate us. It was the best feeling.. And also taking my shoes off to dance and party! Haha!

    How did HitchSwitch make your post-wedding name change process easier?

    I came across HitchSwitch on the Knot website and was sold from the moment I read “Feeling overwhelmed?.. Skip steps 2 through 5 and let us help!” I then clicked on the website and chose my package.. A week later all my pre-filled out paperwork to submit to Social Security, Passport, DMV, home billing companies, credit card companies, etc. was sent to me. I started with social security and from there on it has been a lifesaver. I really appreciate the concept of it and all the help from the HitchSwitch staff! Many of us just married gals have no idea where to start.. And this took the worry and time out of the equation.

     

  • Holiday Activities That are a Must

    Holiday Activities That are a Must

    Holidays are expensive. Therefore, they can absolutely suck sometimes.

    Hey, I’m one of the broke and humble ones. I still got holiday shopping to do; I’m hosting this year’s Christmas dinner, I haven’t gotten a tree or decorations, and my list goes on and on…and on. While the hectic atmosphere that comes with the holidays makes you wonder why we have them in the first place, there are some things that you know are just meant for this time of year.

    Best part? Most of these activities won’t cost you a dime.

    Worst Part? Your kids or loved ones might get on your last nerve and cause that annual holiday nervous breakdown.

    via GIPHY

    Here are some activities that are family friendly and hopefully won’t break the bank!

    Gingerbread Houses

    Do you know the muffin man? The one who lives on Drury lane?

    Fun fact: I did not know gingerbread houses were edible till my junior year of high school.

    Growing up, my family wasn’t big on sweets during the holidays. We ate our dinner, drank tea with cardamom infused biscuits, and moved on with life.

    Yeah, yeah, I know, it was traumatizing.

     

    via GIPHY

    I had my first gingerbread house when I was working at a daycare center in college. I’ve learned that making it from scratch may be a process, but oh, was it worth it. Everyone has a role when it comes to building a gingerbread house, and I do mean everyone. We’ve got frosting and candies and milk and of course the main man, the gingerbread man.

    Kids love it as everything is hands-on and hey, they’re building a mini house for Gingy. What’s more Christmas-y than that? Just don’t forget the gumdrop buttons.

    Homemade Ornaments

    Want to make these holiday memories last forever? Build your own ornaments. There are several ideas for decorations. They may require to pull out your arts and crafts drawer, but I guarantee you, that is the best part. At the end of the day, you’ll have them hanging on that tree, and you could not be more proud of your creation.

    Cookies, Cookies, Cookies!

    Pick a cookie, folks, any cookie. We’ve got iced sugar cookies, snickerdoodle, chocolate chip blondies, mudslide cookies, gingerbread cookies, and over a hundred more.

    I make chocolate chip cookies with salted pecans in my house weekly. It’s a favorite among the hubby and my one-year-old. Holiday cookies are a whole other story, though. Even though we have a drawer full of cookie cutters, I always need more. Before you judge me, check yourself because I know I’m not alone in this.

     

    via GIPHY

    They are my weakness. My Achilles heel, if you will.

    But ’tis the season, amirite? If by the end of December, I have more than one hundred dollars in my bank account, then was it truly Christmas??

    Snow Angels Turn to Snow Fights

    Damn you, California. Your beautiful sandy, sunny beaches have made me intolerable to the cold. Growing up in Southern California, I witnessed snow about…zero times per year. If we wanted to see snow, we’d turn on the Discovery channel and hope they were doing some documentary about the polar expedition.

    When my folks took us to Big Bear Lake for the first time, we thought it’d be fun to have a snow fight.

    Worst. Idea. Ever.

    Spoiler alert: snow is not soft like in the movies. It is solid. And tough. And hurts.  One thing’s for sure though, being surrounded by mountains of snow during the holidays sure makes it feel a lot like Christmas.

    Some More S’mores

    S’mores are not only a campfire favorite, but a holiday must as well! Gather up your friends, family, and all your loved ones. If you don’t have a fireplace, you can always use your stove to make s’mores. Here are a few recipes that will have your family begging for more.

     

    via GIPHY

    The list of must-do activities for the holidays is endless. There’s Christmas tree shopping, decorating the house, carolling, holiday lights tour, and even movie nights that capture the true meaning of the holidays. No matter what you choose to do, make sure you don’t get caught up in the hectic atmosphere and always remember what the holidays are all about: being surrounded by family and friends and being grateful for all you have.