Tuesday, June 17, 2008

Who moved the Beer (brewery)

So the clan is all off to LaTrobe, PA this week for a gathering of my in-laws (insert joke here). If you are like me (Irish), you are thinking, LaTrobe, Hey, Rolling Rock! Yep, Rolling Rock, I was very much looking forward to a tour. This would join all of my childhood vacations to that of my children's.

I used to visit an uncle who lived in Chippawa Falls, WI, home of Leinenkugels Beer. The highlight of the trip was always the brewery, and for us kids, the orange pop that followed. Did I mention my mom was Irish? It was a nice family trip, and science is involved in beer brewing, so my parents took us, again and again. I have really found memories, and was hoping my kids could see the science involved in beer brewing.

I do not keep up on the world of beer, I have my favorites, and faithfully buy them. In planning for this trip I started looking into a trip to Rolling Rock. Well, guess what? They were bought by the evil corporate giant Anheuser-Busch and moved out of LaTrobe. Stupid big corporation ruining my fun. I guess we will be spending three days at the Grist mill of St. Vincent, being reminded of family history ( Husband's uncles were Archabbots).

Friday, June 13, 2008

Finally a quiet Weekend.

This has been a busy summer! But, this weekend, I get to relax and celebrate my 11th Wedding anniversary. June 14, 1997, Christopher and I were married. It was a great day, and the past 11 years are only the beginning of a great life together.

When we were married, I was kind of sad that there are no regular feast days on June 14 (sometimes the Feast of the Sacred Heart coincides). About three years ago, I found out it is the anniversary of Chesterton's death. He is not a saint yet, and may never be, but what a great person to share an anniversary with!

We have no grand plans, just quiet, the kiddies are off to the home a friend for a couple days. We need that time to just talk, without the interruption of a little person, who has something very important to say, once in a while. It sounds selfish when I say it, but it does not happen often enough. We are also getting ready for our trip to Latrobe, PA, for a family reunion of sorts at St. Vincent Archabbey, where Chris's great-grandparents were married by his Uncle the Archabbot.

I have hopes of hitting the farmer's market this weekend, but I've been reminded, that it is not a very "anniversary" type thing to do. I do need to get fresh veggies for a nice quiet (there is that word again) picnic. Please pray for us, we have a great marriage, but can always use all the blessings and grace God can give!