I Do Believe Photography: April 2008

Monday, April 14, 2008

Mainland Trip Part 3 - Ohio

Off to Youngstown, Ohio we ventured for some good family time. This was the focal point of our trip. I got to meet the lovely Ruth Birskovich, Gabe's grandmother and an incredible lady to say the least. Grandma showed us the most wonderful hospitality. We visited a couple of local museums, my favorite was the Looney Toons exhibit at the Butler Institute of American Art. At Gabe's insistence we made sure to visit a true Italian Deli, Jimmy's, were we stocked up on meats and cheeses, roasted peppers and marinated olives, cheesecake and cannoli, what a feast! I got to meet Gabe's Aunt Noni, and his cousin Teri with his daughters Karen and Kristen. Grandma even honored me by helping with my wedding dress shopping at a local David's Bridal. It was so nice to meet everyone and we had a wonderful time. Next time I think we will try to visit during warmer months!

Hanging with the Penguin outside the Butler

A cool mirror at the museum

BURRR, Gabe was mad because I refused to participate in a snowball fight. It just wouldn't be fair, he would kick my butt! I did end up starting a small one in our room though ;)

Thank you Grandma for a wonderful visit!

Tuesday, April 1, 2008

Mainland Trip Part 2 - Chicago

I was too cold to hold my camera while we were in Chicago so thank you to the fine artists who submitted their pictures for me to post here :)

Despite the biting cold, Chicago was so much fun! Everyone is ready for winter to be over but I was ridiculously excited to see the smallest snowflake :) It was so good to see my old college buddy Sarah and her husband Nick. The happy couple is expecting their first little one the very weekend Gabe and I will be joining in holy matrimony. I can't wait to find out if it's a boy or a girl and I wish I could be around to take pregnancy pictures! Nick keeps very busy as a talented tattoo artist at his shop The Chicago Tattoo Company. Gabe was hoping to take advantage of Nick's skill but we were all just too busy, maybe next time!

Sarah and I got some awesome girl time in shopping for wedding dresses at the Brides Against Breast Cancer dress sale. I didn't find my perfect dress but I still highly recommend the sale to anyone out there looking. They had beautiful dresses! Some were worn once others were brand new, donated by designers and bridal boutiques across the country. Everyone was so friendly and happy to be there. It is a wonderful cause that I am happy to support. I am considering donating my own dress after I tie the knot this summer. Thank you so much Sarah, for being an amazing friend and dress helper. You are the best!

Snow!!!

Sarah and I on our way to the dress sale. Check out the snowflakes!

BURRRR!

We also had a great time hanging out with my Chicago cousins. I am so happy I got two introduce everybody to Gabe. As expected, he loves you all. Thanks to Barbara and Stu for all of the rides, Lauren and Benji, Elisa and Kevin for the hospitality. With two year olds Rosie and Haley running around and one very bouncy 5 year old Albert how could it not be a good time. Plus Elisa 9 months preggers and ready to pop...is my next little cousin born yet? We even got to attend little Hallie's 2nd birthday party. What a treat!