The Life and Times of Jill and Andy

2006-08-20T15:20:00.000-07:00

Continual Monthly Updates

Well as the summer begins to wind down things are slowly starting to gear up for both Andy and myself. Soon I will be back at uni and his big exam is creeping closer and closer. Before long we will be writing about Christmas plans. Ok maybe not that bad more like Thanksgiving! Our summer has been fantastic with both of us not having major commitments apart from studying and getting used to being married. It has been awesome with numerous trips out to Invermere, a short trip to visit Andy's family in Saskatoon and hanging out in Calgary with our friends.

The end of July was my 24th birthday which was a quite affair with my family and friends Kristen and Jeff. My family surprised me big time with a new mountain bike which was really awesome.

My wonderful husband also took me to see the Phantom of the Opera. We had both seen it with our families when it was on tour in Canada ages ago but its still amazing. There were parts that I hadn't remembered from before but it was still a fantastic night.

In August I decided to start working for myself and became a Creative Memories independent consultant. My first big gig is at the end of August so we shall see how it goes and if I can make some money with it. For those who don't know of the company it's scrapbook products. I am a huge fan of it and have been having a great time putting our wedding and honeymoon albums together. It's a great way to preserve photos and your memories.

We have only made it out to Invermere once this month. It was the big race weekend of Loop the Lake. Mom and Andy ran the 10km along with my cousin and some of her friends. Both Mom and Andy did awesome. Andy finished 10th out of ALL the runners in the 10k race and 2nd for his age category. Mom finished 3rd for her age category. So it was a good weekend for them.

Now with only the few weeks left in the summer I have a big conference for Creative Memories, Andy is continually studying and we shall end the summer spending the long weekend out in Invermere.

Jill

2006-07-13T12:04:00.000-07:00

SORRY, Yes there has been a huge delay in us posting something!

Hi All, Well yes thankfully no one has given us any grief yet over the fact that we have yet to add to this blog post wedding. I guess we have a bit of a "honeymoon" grace period. So I will make this a nice long entry to get everyone up to date on our lives, cause yes I know it's oh so interesting!

For those of you who weren't able to attend the wedding it was awesome. I could not have planned a better day. The weather, although raining and overcast, was still nice and added a bit of drama for the day. It did however let up after the ceremony so we could all enjoy a hay ride. Yes my little surprise was that our wedding "vehicle" was a big flat bed trailer hay wagon pulled by two Belgian horses with a beautiful sign created by my Uncle Ken saying 'Just Hitched.' Our friend and pastor Laurence did an amazing ceremony which was very personalized to the two of us making it even more special. I managed to get through the tea ceremony, learned a bit of Chinese as I went along learning how to address Andy's relatives and mine in a respectful manner. It was really interesting and added a special touch to the wedding. My family who participated did really well considering the were as confused as I was. Our reception was exactly as planned - a big party with great food, and good times. My brother Stephen did an excellent job as MC and Andy and I both really enjoyed the evening.

The honeymoon. For us it was a big 6000km road trip and we loved it. We drove down the west coast of the US which was excellent. We both would love to go back to Oregon and spend more time there as it was beautiful. Got to see the Redwood Forest and were entertained by sea lions while eating lunch on the beach one day. We hit every outlet mall that we could find on the way down to California which was kinda fun. There is one in Gilroy, California that is just insane. The big ticket item on the trip was DISNEYLAND! Yup, we went to Disney. We spent two days there hanging out and being kids. It was a bit hectic as summer vacation for the US students was in full swing but it was still fun. From Disney we went east a bit and turned from being kids back into adults as we spent a night in Las Vegas. Both Andy and I were blown away with how outrageous and big everything is there. Its a huge adult theme park really but with a lot more money flowing though. We went to the Tournament of Kings tournament show which was kewl. Its a knight tournament where they joust and sword fight and all that good stuff. You get to eat your meal with your finger as they would in the medieval era - very kewl. Then we got ourselves a foot long margarita and wandered around the strip. Our return trip was via Zion National Park, a stop in Utah to visit my cousin Kerwin and then up though Montana and back to Canada. It was a really great trip.

So now that we are back home we are slowly adjusting to life together. Our apartment is finally sorted out and the boxes unpacked. We were so lucky and received so many wonderful gifts for the wedding. We were able to replace quite a few of our old items like dishes, glasses, etc with super nice new ones that we had received as gifts. The good thing is that our church is having a garage sale in the fall and looking for donations. So we have happily taken a couple car loads up there to help empty our apartment and help the church out. We have also made two new additions to our 'family.' We now have two little kittens a boy and a girl named Koda and Kena. They have been heaps fun and keep us entertained. We got them from the Lethbridge PAWS society. Happily they came litter box trained and have yet to destroy or break anything (knock on wood!). Andy is in full gear studying for the last of his CASB exams and the big UFE in September. He amazes me that on a nice sunny summer day he can hole himself up in the study for 5+ hours and work. I am working on a course for my degree this summer as well although I don't have the discipline that Andy has. But I am chugging along with that. Apart from that we have been enjoying the Stampede and my parents 'cabin' out in Inveremere.

Whew! Well that was a lengthy update. We shall try and keep on it a bit better in the future. I will also try to get a bit more computer savvy and post some photos of the wedding, our trip and the new kittens.

Jill

2006-05-31T23:57:00.000-07:00

Its all Coming Together

Well who ever would have thought that planning a wedding was so time consuming. We are offically 9 days away from the BIG day and my parents house is kaos. There are bits a pieces everywhere, boxes of stuff to take to Waterton and a million lists of things to pack. As we come down to the wire there are lots of little things that need to be taken care of and it seems that they all take two hours longer to complete than one would think. But it has been great as there have been numerous phone calls and e-mails from friends of support, love and assistance. I don't think that I can mention or thank my parents enough for the ammount of work, time, love, and support they have given both Andy and myself in this wedding process. Plus my big brother has come up with more than a few surprises in his support, kind words and amazingly mature pieces of advise and wisdom he has given me. Plus the hour long massage that he gave to me as a shower gift, is exactly what a bride needs! As June 10 creeps closer each day I ask is people could please pray for safe travel for everyone, good weather, and that the day however it turns out (wind, rain, snow, an untimely zit -whatever) that it is full of love and happiness. Also please pray for Andy as he is continuing to study for his CA exam during this whole time, writing practice exams, doing assignments etc. He has a very important exam that he writes at the end of September to further his career as an accountant. He has been working tirelessly to juggle his commitments. It has got to be a challenge and he could definatly use the support.

Also my matron of honor, Shiloh, and her husband, Mark, arrived in Calgary last tuesday so I am excited to have them here with us. For those coming to the wedding they aren't hard to miss. They are the ones that talk funny so make sure to congratulate them on their new marrige and help make their first time to Canada the best!

Well this bride needs to get some beauty sleep!

Jill

2006-05-27T12:36:00.000-07:00

Going on a Terror!

So, it's Saturday, and it's exactly 2 weeks away from the wedding! So, at this time two weeks from now, I'll probably be chillin in my hotel room and just passing the time. It's going to be a lot of fun and the wedding is something I'm really looking forward to. We've been ironing out a few things out and finishing a few last minute details.

Today was my day to go on a terror. I picked up my suit, some suit related things, and then some shoes and whatnot. It's been really busy, and now I'm at home about to sit down and start on some homework for the week. Like I said, it's going to be nuts and all, but it's going to be all good.

Anyway, just thought I'd drop in while I had a few free moments. Thanks for the prayers and thoughts. We really appreciate them!

Andy

2006-05-13T07:10:00.000-07:00

Cross One More Thing Off

Since Jill last posted about her dress, I thought I'd do a little post about my suit! Well, I'm proud to say that I've gotten a suit for the wedding! Yesterday after work, I stolled down to a few downtown shops and found one I really like. Like Jill's dress, I'm not going to let her see me in it until the wedding day hehe. But, I have to say, that's the one thing I'm most looking forward to is seeing my bride walk down the isle in that dress! I know she'll look amazing!

The whole shopping process was simple enough. However, I'm finding I'm having the same problem that Jill had, which is shoes... A few people have told me to get a comfortable pair of shoes and this is a necessary! I realized that a few weekends ago when I was at my friend Mike's wedding in Kitchener. The tuxes that we got were fine, it was just the shoes that weren't the most comfortable. So, I've gone on a hunt to find a pair I like that are going to make my feet smile! I tried yesterday and it was a bit of a challenge as the super "square toe" shoes are in right now and I'm not a huge fan. So, I'm going to be checking out a few shops at a few different places over the next week or so.

But, it looks like everything is coming into place! The honeymoon has been booked and all the other plans seem to be getting taken off the list. All that is left now is the little things, which seem to be mounting up though... They'll get done!

It's 4 weeks today until the wedding, so the big countdown is on! It's going to be a great party!

Andy

2006-05-11T09:58:00.000-07:00

The Perfect Dress

So my wedding dress is still a complete secret. There are a few people who know little detalis about it but apart from Mom and I no one has seen it. I just want it to be a surprise to everyone when I walk down the isle - especially Andy. Like everyone said when I tried it on months ago both Mom and I knew that it was perfect and there was no question or more trying on of dresses after that. For any brides to be - Ethos is a great dress shop to go to. We went on Tuesday for a fitting and to get it altered, bustled etc. Mom and I were thinking it was going to take hours and cost a fortune. But my perfect dress really is perfect. It needed NO alterations. The lenght was just right, bust fit really well and all that needed to be done was a little hook and loop sewn on to bustle it at the reception. We were in and out in less than 20 min. What more can a girl ask for!
Along with the dress - shoes were a bit of a nightmare. We spent a whole day going from mall to mall and bridal store to bridal store looking for a pair of shoes. We finally gave up after about 5 hours of searching. Then lurking under my bed was a pair of shoes that I had bought for a formal gig in Australia last year. Yet again - perfect. To say the least mom was a bit annoyed when I showed then to her as we had been a smidge frustrated by the end of the shoe shopping day. So ya its all coming togther. And my shoes for the reception are in the mail! Those too are a surprise, tho I think those who know me won't be too shocked.

Well the count down really starts. One month till the big day. YAHOO!

Jill

2006-05-09T09:14:00.000-07:00

Its Getting Closer!

Well now that I am done uni and Andy is done with tax season you would reackon that we would have more time to sit down and update this blog on a more regular basis. Sadly that isn't the case as there are a million and eight things that are needed to be done and trips to Waterton and other little mini holidays that we had planned. With the two weekends that have already gone by Andy and I have been going in two different directions. The first weekend Andy was off to Toronto to be a groomsman in his best mate - Mike's wedding. I was required in Calgary as our pastor and good friend Laurence had his graduation from uni. So we divided and conqured to make sure we were there for all the big events. This past weekend saw Andy back in Saskatoon and myself out in the Cypress Hills with my parents. My Dad took Mom and I on the greatest fishing trip ever. We were hauling in 8-10 pound fish that fought like crazy. It was so much fun.

Wedding stuff: There are times when its like Christmas. I have had two bridal showers. One was on Easter long weekend when the in laws were in town. Melissa (andy's sister) with help from Diana and my Mom put on an awesome Papered Chef shower. My good friends Laurence and Kelly Fernandez came and did the demo. It was good fun hanging out with family and friends. I was able to get lots of really great stuff from Papered Chef and I am really excited to play with it. My other bridal shower was this past friday put on by Elizabeth Christie. Mrs. Christie is a second mom to me since she has know me since I was 2. And I have been really great friends with her daughter Ashley. There were lots of my friends, family and ladies that have been our neighbours for ages. Even my Aunt from Waterton came up to celebrate. Again it was like christmas with all sorts of wonderful gifts that I can't wait to use.

Well thats close to lenght of my english essays so I will stop. Andy and I will try to keep this updated on a more regular basis since its all getting exciting and close to the big day.

Jill

2006-04-14T11:21:00.000-07:00

A laspse in Time

So its clearly been ages since Andy or myself found some time or remembered to write an update with wedding plans. Andy has been swamped working in the Tax department of KMPG, as my Dad say this is an accountants "harvest season." I myself have been working hard on my studies at university and as of yesterday survived my first year at Mount Royal College. But in the midst of studying, classes and work Andy and I have managed to get a few more things sorted out. Early in March my dress arrived and is now in my possession. My Mom and I were also able to find jewelry and a head piece the day we picked up the dress. We are now just waiting for my finals to be done to go find some shoes. RSVPs for the wedding have been constantly arriving at Andy's house which is exciting to find out who is able to come. Mid March Mom and I did a whirl wind trip to Waterton to check out the reception hall to try and come up with ideas for decorations. On the same trip we spoke to a couple florists in surrounding towns. Laura's Flowers in Cardston owned by Laura were fantastic and she did an amazing job talking through ideas for flowers. So that is one more item off the list. We are in the midst of hiring a DJ, have organized a wedding "vehicle" for the day of, and purchased most of the items for table centers. YA we have been busy. We are now getting down to the smaller details of the wedding. I am finding that this is way more time consuming and tedious than the important big items of church, reception hall, food etc. But luckily we have a just under two months and an excellent team of family and friends all helping us out. Its been awesome, a few of my mom's friends who will be attending have phone up and offered to help in any way they can. Its great when people offer assistance out of the blue and I am learning to delegate tasks to those who offer. So for myself I have four final exams till the school year is over and my entire focus can be on this wedding.

Jill

2006-03-08T22:58:00.000-08:00

And They're Off!

Well, I don't know what it is, but tonight I just can't seem to sleep... I was just tossing and turning in bed (which is somewhat frustrating) and thought I'd get up and try to make myself a bit tired...

But, today we finally sent out the wedding invitations! I know it's been a long process, but they are finally out! It was exciting to put them in the mailbox tonight and know that tomorrow they will be picked up and being delivered to everyone's doorsteps! HOW EXCITING!

Even more exciting is that the wedding is just 3 months away! I was just thinking about that today at work and it's less than 2 months until Jill finishes school for the year, less than 3 months until I start my study leave for the summer, and just over 3 months til the big day! I know I'm going to sound old by saying this, but the time really flies by. It's really hard to think that we're already 2.5 months into the new year (I guess not really new any more). It really feels like not that long ago we were just starting to plan this wedding. Then Christmas came, New Years came, second semester started, CASB finished, and on and on and on.

Well, enough looking at the past, the next few months plan on being quite exciting and busy! Jill has an exam or paper due every week from here til the end of April and we just need to finish up the last few touches on the wedding. So, it feels like wedding planning has taken up a lot of time. I'm sure it will all be worth it in hindsite.

Anyhow... not really tired, but I'm going to read.

Later

Andy

2006-02-24T10:02:00.000-08:00

Face Lift for the Appartment

On Tuesday my good friend Adam Palmer who is a manager for College Pro Painting came over and gave our little apartment a face lift. I say our appartment - it is currently Andy's house downtown where I still live in the SW. But as of June 10 it will become our apartment. Anyhow it was in desperate need of some paint and since Andy and I are crazy busy and not fans of painting we decided to hire Adam. For those who had seen it before will understand how the colours were a bit blah and the previous paint job slightly dodgey. Adam spent ages helping us pick out colours and then in a day worked his magic to transform our place into a suave, sophisticated downtown apartment. I have to say my new favourite room is the study which went from a puke yellow to a super bright, fun, exciting green! Its awesome - you can't help but smile and want to dance when you walk in. So if you are in the area stop by and say hi to Andy and check it out - like I said it looks AMAZING.

Also to anyone who is considering doing some painting inside or out I HIGHLY reccomend Adam! He did a superb job. His number is 630-3415!

Jill

2006-02-21T11:46:00.000-08:00

Success in the South

Two weekends ago Andy and I were up at the crack of dawn Saturday morning to head down to Lethbridge/Waterton to confirm a few more wedding plans. First was a stop in Lethbridge to visit with a photographer, look at photos, talk picture talk and what not. It was a painless process as the guy who runs the place is super friendly. So we now have an official photographer for the big day. We then headed on down to Waterton via Cardston to make a quick stop and say hello to my Uncle who was in the hospital (he's a OK). We continued on to Waterton to met up with our ring man to talk wedding bands. We decided to be a bit untraditional and have a stone in my wedding ring. Its going to be another opal but this one is green - its stunning. Andy found a band he really liked as well so we are now waiting for them to arrive in the mail.
To top off the weekend my parents who have been galavanting around the US and Mexico decided to come spend the night in Waterton on their way home as well. So it was great to see them after over a month and get to hang out with my Aunt. Sunday Andy and myself went and goofed around at Cameron Falls and along the lake taking a few photos and trying not to get blown over, like always it was windy but fun to be out in the mountains again.
So now we have all the major items needed for a wedding in place. Our next big mission is going to be trying to sort out a guest list and getting invitations in the mail. Something we have slightly been avoiding! But its comming together which is good since time seems to be flying past.

Jill

2006-01-30T21:29:00.000-08:00

Let the Craziness Begin!

Hey all,

Just wanted to drop in and say hi! As per Jill's last post, we did our registry this past weeekend. It was nuts and we stil have lots to do! So, here's a few details:

Wedding Date: June 10, 2006 (130 days from today... YIKES!)
Registered at: HBC

So, check out the registry. We have some pretty limited things on it right now, but we're hoping to go back next weekend to fill things out. So be sure to check it out!

Also, wanted to wish everyone a Happy Chinese New Year (GONG HEI FAT CHOY!).

2006-01-29T15:11:00.000-08:00

Our First Foray into Gift Registry!

Yesterday afternoon Andy and I wandered upto the Bay for our first attempt at putting together a gift registry for the wedding. It's a pretty simple procedure, they give you the scanner gun and you go scan the items that you would like. The challenge arose when deciding what to choose. Both Andy and I are fourtunate enough to have family and friends who have through christmas and birthdays hooked us up with two pretty complete houses, especially in the appliance department. So when our houses merg there are going to be some appliance going to friends, back to those family memebers who lent it to us or to the "cabin" in Invermere. But they give you a groovy little book to remind you of all the things that are needed on a room to room basis. They list everything though so you have to go through the list and check off what you have, what you don't need and are finally left with what you need to find. After two hours we had to leave as Chinese New Year dinner was awaiting at Andys Diye's house and we were both starving. So to say the least we have made a good start but another trip is going to be required.

As for the rest of the wedding plans, they are comming along! We have our wedding party sorted out, musicians, mc etc. We will post more details as I am trying to find pictures to go along with it. Our next challenge is to sort out the wording and printing of invitations. Its all comming along really well, thanks to both our parents - especially my Dad, who have been helping with plans. I should also say thanks to my friend Kristen who has been helping me out with wedding plans, university, getting in shape, and all in all keeping me sane!

Jill

2006-01-08T20:40:00.000-08:00

BIG NEWS!

Ok so this has nothing to do with Andy or myself but I have to tell the world and this is a good way. My very good, bestest mate in Australia (who you will all meet at the wedding as she is going to be here and standing up for me)well she is also just recently engaged! Some really lucky guy named Mark (there has to be something good about people named Mark)proposed and they are getting hitched! So to Shiloh and Mark - CONGRATS, both Andy and I wish you the best and are so happy for you!

Jill

2006-01-03T20:49:00.000-08:00

A Tale of Two Christmas'

Well another Christmas season has come and gone. This Christmas has to definatly rank in the top five of all time greatest Christmas'. My Mom did an AMAZING!!! job of decorating the house and making sure that she pulled out all the stops to make up for my lack of Christmas last year. Leading up to Christmas was great, time off to read, hang out, sleep, study (yes I studied it was perfect time to get some reading of textbooks done) and spend time with family. This year Andy and I were able to spend time with both of our families, it worked perfectly. Christmas was in Calgary with my family. Christmas morning I was banned from getting up before 8am, so on the dot I was tearing down the hall waking everyone (Mom, Dad, Andy, Stephen) up! The whole day was great, the turkey dinner was perfect. Snow or no snow it didn't matter this year as it was amazing! To make it even better Jan. 28 Andy and I flew out to Regina to spend New Years/Christmas take two with his family. It was too much fun, shopping, mah jong (I hope I spelled that right), more presents and taboo. Taboo was great and left us laughing so hard - to quote a great line from one night playing from Diana (Andy's sister in law) "something blank!" I guess ya had to be there! For those of you who have never had the opportunity to spend time with the Mark clan ther is one thing that is always amazing - FOOD. They can all cook and think big. Oh I might have gained five pounds but it was worth it. Another turkey dinner, chinese foundu, and best of all the giant chocolate fountain and the 12cups of chocolate that went into it! I am drooling thinking of it now. It hopefully will make a reappearance at the wedding!The Mark Family is one super awesome group of people, they alway make me feel right at home, what soon to be daughter/sister in law could ask for more. I am looking forward to the next trip out to Saskatchewan for a dealyed Chinese New Year and the dedication of little Markus Glaspell (Melissa, Andy's sisters little guy). Oh ya on top of all that craziness Andy and I were able to sit down a bit and have managed to get a few more things for the wedding (stationary, table center stuff, decorations etc) and put some pen to paper for ideas of how things are going to work. Its all coming together, slowly, but we will get there. I can't believe that its a smidge over five months till the big day! But for now its back to uni, work, and life.

Jill

2005-12-14T12:09:00.000-08:00

EXAMS ARE DONE CHRISTMAS HERE WE COME!!!!

Well I wrote my last final exam this morning and I am oh so happy to be done! Its been a bit of a stressful slog this past few weeks and having all three exams back to back was not really fun. But I have survived, my place is in need of a really good clean and I am shocked my fish is still alive (its all been negleted for study!). But with exams done that means one thing - CHRISTMAS!! I am a HUGE fan of Christmas and since living in Australia last year gave me the oportunity to experience a Christmas alone without family I am even more excited this year. Tonight starts with the official tree decorating, tomorrow the traditional trip to see the Nutcracker ballet with my mom (tradition also states is girls only!), two trips to the Zoo lights on the weekend, the second where we get to listen to my Dads' choir sing, a trip to the CPOs' Traditional Christmas next week, get togther with family friends to finish with Christmas Day! This year will be Andys first experience of Christmas at the Kotkas household. Its going to be awesome, as I know my Mom has been decorating, baking, shopping, and has even quilted two new christmas wall hangings. So I hope that everyone, where ever in the world you are, has an awesome Christmas. Make sure you give those in your family a huge hug as its not Christmas without your family! MERRY CHRISTMAS and I hope you all have a fantastic New Year.

Jill

2005-12-08T16:55:00.000-08:00

It's That Time of Year Again...

Well, welcome to December. Home of Christmas ("winter vacation" for those trying to be politically correct...), the Christmas/Winter Holiday shopping, and final exams. Right now Jill is just finishing up the semester of classes and studying, studying, and more studying for her finals this upcoming week. Her luck of the draw didn't turn out to be the best for her finals as she writes Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday of next week. It'll be a tough go having 3 finals in a row; however, it'll mean for a longer Christmas break.

Overall, things in Calgary are going well. I'm back home from a month of travelling and it's really been nice to be back, spend time with Jill, and just overall being in the city. Wedding plans are starting to come together as well. Perry and Karen (Jill's parents) went down to Waterton last weekend and saw the venues where everything was going to be happening, and apparently it looks good! So, when plans starting to come together, it's getting really exciting! Just to think, that in 6 months and 2 days, we'll be married!!! Nuts hey! I have to say that it's pretty exciting though!

Anyway, just wanted to drop in and say hi. It's been a while. Things with work are good, CASB is good (over half over this course!), and being home and close to Jill is even better. In the words of Ross Porter, "Be cool, stay warm, and for goodness sakes, take care of the ones you love!"

2005-12-01T09:42:00.000-08:00

A DRESS

Well over the weekend I went to do some dress shopping with my mom. We were just kinda thinking we would get some ideas of what was out there. But well we managed to get lucky and found one. It was an interesting expereince and I can't recall when there was ever that many people fussing over me, but it was fun. I was quite happy that it was just Mom and I as she definatly knows what I like and don't like and headed off the ladies in the shop from showing me a few dresses that I would not like. It was a big reality check as I stood there in my dress complete with all the accessories, my first comment to Mom was "Holy S**t, I am getting Married!" It really is starting to feel more real as the pieces come together. As much as I would love to dish the detail of the dress I am keeping it a surprise from Andy and my Dad. So I guess that means its going to be a surprise for everyone else. But to say the least this wedding is slowly starting to come together as all the big pieces are now sorted and we will embark on sorting out the smaller details over the Christmas holidays once my exams are done.

Jill

2005-11-22T12:23:00.000-08:00

The Engagement, Housewarming, Birthday Party Extravaganza!

Well the above party occured on Sat, Nov. 19 which was Andy's birthday. I just wanted to say a huge thankyou to everyone who was able to make it out and help celebrate our engagement, Andys' (and soon to be mine) new house and his birthday. It was a great night and I know both Andy and I really had a great time. Stephen (my bro), Katie (his gilrfriend) and Bobby (a longtime friend) who came out really spiced things up, especially the songs that Stephen made up for Andy and I. I am looking forward to another rendition at the wedding reception. A HUGE thankyou to everyone who donated money to the Samaratins purse instead of gifts (for those that also brought gifts we really appreciated them as well!) a total of $60.00 was raised and been sent off to them. Both Andy and I are big fans of Samaratins Purse expecially with the shoeboxes that they organise to be sent to those less fortunate on Christmas Day. So thankyou to those who came, it was a really great night!

Jill and ANdy

2005-11-15T19:09:00.000-08:00

A Quick Update
Well just thought that I should take a few minutes inbetween studying for yet another midterm to add a quick note on this blog to let people know that I really am still alive.
Things are starting to get sorted out and go really well. My Dad has taken over my wedding plans and become our unofficial wedding planner, along with help from my mom. But they are doing awesome and really starting to make things happen. Which is heaps more than what I have been or could do since I am so focused on uni. So ya there really is going to be a wedding - eventually!

I also just returned from a weekend away in Regina visiting my soon to be inlaws. Andys' sister and her husband recently had a baby boy named Marcus. So I went out to help celebrate at his one month banquet. I have to say he is about the cutest baby I have ever seen (although my experience with babies is VERY limited!)But ya I had a great time hanging out with the Mark clan and I am really looking forward to Christmas.
Well thats about all the time I have to pull my nose out from my books, I better get back at it.
Jill

2005-11-09T19:27:00.000-08:00

Update

Being on the road has lost its novelty... I'm ready to come home... Only one more week to go!

ANdy

2005-10-30T09:42:00.000-08:00

Back on the Road

WARNING: I'm Actually not a bad fiancee, I just am doing a touch of travelling...

So, I'm blogging from the wonderful Las Vegas on this fine Sunday morning. I've actually will be staying down here in the states (not Vegas) for the next few weeks. I'm working down here and so, my poor Jill will be spending the next little while away from well... me. But, we were able to spend some good time together before I took off.

Yesterday we had a great day out in Banff. We were only there for a few hours, but we were able to do some shopping, went out for lunch, and just enjoyed the crisp autumn day that it was. We ended up getting some things for my new nephew, Marcus, as well as Karis and Hason-man (my other niece and nephew). So, Jill will be delivering the gifts to them when she heads out to see my family on Rememberance day weekend.

But, once I get back from California, I'll be leaving to head to Montreal a week and a half after to go see a little band from Dublin, Ireland called U2. My brother Micheal and I were lucky enough to get tickets and are going to be going to see them. So, I'll be doing some sight seeing down there. I'm really excited about it, and Jill's a little jealous (which I can understand). So, this month, Jill will see me for a total of a week and a half... So, that's why I'm saying I'm not a bad fiancee... But, this will be a good time for Jill to get some studying done as she's entering another boute with mid-terms in a few weeks.

Anyway, I should head out here and kill some more time here in Vegas (no slots though...). But, I'll drop in now and then and let you know how things are going. For those in Calgary... be sure to keep my fiancee company as I can't!

ANdy

2005-10-19T14:33:00.000-07:00

The Ring - part two

So as all of you can seein Andys' post below, is my wonderful, beautiful engagement ring. People all seem to be a bit shocked by it since it really isn't a traditional diamond wedding ring. But golly gee I really like it. It was hand made in Waterton Lakes National Park by a very laid back gentleman named David. The ring is silver, the setting white gold and the stone is an Australian opal. Its quite beautiful as depending on the light it changes colour. Its great because it ties in two very important memories in my life (Waterton where I spent many summers hiking, fishing, and spending time with family, and Australia where I lived for two years and those memories). Plus as Andy has discovered Waterton is a very beautiful, magical place and we both hope to spend many more summers down there hiking, fishing and relaxing.( Check out the two pics below of Waterton).

2005-10-14T21:15:00.000-07:00

Picture of "The Ring"

Well, here's a picture of "the ring". I took a picture of it last week for my parents to see (my mom was a touch antsy to see what it actually looked like, but, here it is.

But, this week has been crazy with Jill studying and me studying for my exam tomorrow. But, it has been good. We were just out tonight with one of my colleagues from work and his wife, and it was good to catch up with them. I play on the same hockey team with him and also was on the same job with him for a while. But, it looks like work is going to take me some places in the next month. I'm heading down to California next Sunday for a day trip, and then turn around again the next Sunday at will be there for 2.5 weeks. Hopefully we'll be able to get some of the wedding planning stuff done and Jill will be able to look for a dress. So, I think it will be good.

Anyway, there seems to be spam in our quotes, so I think we're going to restrict quotes to users. It doesn't cost anything and takes like 2 mins. Plus, there's not that much spam associated with it. So, if you want to leave a comment, take the time to fill out a profile. It's not that we don't like you, it's just that spam has once again ruined a good thing.

But, I should head to bed. See you on the flip side!

ANdy

2005-10-14T16:27:00.000-07:00

Crazy times.....

Well I have been on a week long hiatus from writing posts and wedding plans in general. I had a bit of a moment last week where things all got a bit overwhelming. So the wedding plans got put on hold. For those who were unlucky enough to try to talk to me about it got a quick "NO WEDDING TALK!" I guess I was a bit harsh (especially to my youth pastor! sorry Big L) but I just could not handle it all and it was the first to get put on hold. I would have loved to put my two midterms on hold but somehow I just really don't think that is possible. So I have two exams down and four left this term. Hopefully this past week and a half was a good enough kick in the butt to get in gear and organize my time a bit better.

On one happy note Andy's cousin Cindy, has amazingly offered to help with some of the froo froo. Her husband has talent making wishing wells, any colour I want! YAHOO. So that is just awesome, gotta love the soon to be inlaws.

Anyhow the wedding talk ban is finally off, I might even recruit some friends to go dress shopping while Andy is gone to California. I guess we really should get a pic of the ring on this site sometime soon. I will put it on the list of things to do! One last note to mention - thanks for all the comments, we both love to read them. The encouragement and good wishes are great, so ya Thanks!

Jill

2005-10-08T18:25:00.000-07:00

Is This Becoming the Routine?

Well, it looks like it's time for the "regular" weekend post hehe. But, this past week turned out to be interesting. I was away in Banff all week at training for work. Although it was great to take off for the week, it was a touch stressful as I'm trying to prepare for my CASB exam next weekend. Plus, Jill's studying heaps for her midterms next week. Needless to say, wedding planning has been put on hold for the next week. So, after my exam next Saturday, discussions regarding wedding planning will resume again. We're still trying to nail down what we exactly want to do, and like what Jill posted last week, we don't want the "froo froo".

But, being Thanksgiving weekend here in Canada, I have to say that there's a lot that I'm thankful for. Last night Jill and I were out for supper in the downtown core, and we passed a few homeless people and I'm thankful for a home. Plus, I'm quite thankful to be going through school, wedding planning, work, etc. At times like these that I'm reminded of a line from one of my favourite movies, Shine. If you're not familiar with the movie, it's about Australian pianst David Helfgott who was a child prodigy who lost his mind. Anyway, there's this one scene where his dad got pissed off at him and beat him. After beating him, he says to David that he's a lucky boy to have a father who loves him that much (note, my father has never beaten me just to clarify things), but I'm always reminded of that one line, "Say that to me, you're a very lucky boy..." But I'm just reminded of how lucky I am... to have a fiancee who loves me (lets hope so!), parents and family who are supportive, shelter, food, serving an amazing God...

Anyway, hope you're thankful this weekend and alway! Enjoy having Monday off!

Love and peace

2005-10-02T13:56:00.000-07:00

Wedding Plans...

Well needless to say there really aren't any. We did come to our sense about getting married in December. The idea was to have it on the 23rd, but as my mother pointed out it was just too close to christmas! So we have gone back to the drawing board and are now thinking about September. But who know with it being so early in the game I have a feeling that its going to change a dozen or more times again.

Who knew that there were going to be so many decisions to make. Its a smidge overwhelming at times and combining that with going to university and helping out at church (I am a Gr10 girls youth leader) and trying to have some semblance of a life there have been a few moments where hopping on a plane to Vegas has been tempting.

It seems that weddings are supposed to be a big froo froo event with lots of bows. But as I said to a friend the other night I am not a "tying bows on crap" kinda person. So I guess this is going to teach me a HUGE lesson in patients and compromise as the weeks progress. But I guess that Andy and I should get our butts in gear and start doing some work on this whole thing. As I type Andy is telling me that we should aim to work on a guest list to be somewhat organized for first revision on friday. So let me know if ya want to come! Just kidding. :-)

Well as much as I would love to sit and "blog" I have a pile of study and two midterms in my near future that need some attention. So where ever you are in the world I hope that you are enjoying life.

Peace, love and happiness,

Jill

2005-10-02T13:43:00.000-07:00

Isn't a 2 Day Weekend Too Short?

Well, I have to say that this weekend has just flown by! On Friday night, Jill was with her girls in youth from the church til late while I stayed home, did homework, and then played hockey til late... Needless to say, Friday night wasn't much for relaxing or partying...

Saturday was more like the same business... We had a meeting with some friends for a business opportunity that went til 11:30, headed home, ran to MEC for a touch to pick up some needed things and get some things repaired, ran and tried some Greek food at Opa! (it's really good and you should try it out... the greek fries are amazing!), ran to another hockey game up by the university (we tied...), then went to Christian Publication to pick up some books and a friend's birthday present..., came home, had a quick nap, ran up to church (caught up with some friends and chatted for a touch after), drove down to the south (church was in the northwest) for another friend's birthday supper, stayed there for a while, and then went home... (more fun's to come!)

Then today, I had the Run for the Cure which is a 5k run/walk in support of Breast Cancer. So, I met up with Jill's mom and Katie (Jill's brother's girl friend) who did the run as well. Did I forget to say what time it started... I was up at 7:00 am... I forgot how early runs started... But, after doing that and chatting for a while, I came home, did laundry, did some homework, packed, made a loaf of bread, and got ready for my week in Banff...

So, needless to say, it was a pretty busy weekend for Jill and I. The next few weeks should be pretty busy for both of us as she's in mid-terms and I'm studying for another one of my exams for my Chartered Accountant (CA) designation. Luckily, Christmas will sneak up on us and we'll hopefully have a break then... Until then, we'll just have to keep running this crazy race we've chosen to do.

Anyway, off to Jill's parent's place for supper to cap off a great weekend!

2005-09-25T18:37:00.000-07:00

Waterton

This weekend, Jill's family had a Kotkas family reunion in Waterton. And I have to say that the time down there was a blast! By the time we got there, all of her family had heard the good news through the grape vine, so we were welcomed with congratulations all around! It was really exciting! Plus, it was a great to meet the soon to be "in-laws" and hanging out with them for the weekend. Here are some pictures of the events that we did:

This picture above is Jill's cousin Chris, Katie (Jill's brother's girl friend), and myself lining up a putt during the first annual Kotkas family reunion golf tournement. The other picture is Jill and her cousin Kara.

I managed to survive although the Deliverance (dueling banjos) song was hummed continously! Some family joke I am sure one day I will understand. There is another musician (Samantha) in the Kotkas family, so us musicians will have to stick together.

ANdy

2005-09-22T12:19:00.000-07:00

The BIG NEWS!!!

On September 16, 2005 Andy popped the big question "Jill, will you marry me?" Once I finally stopped crying, unfogged my glasses, checked out the ring - I said "yes!" So we are engaged.

You have now found the blog of Jill and Andy. Hopefully we will keep this up to date with various plans, activites, pictures and the adventure of planning our wedding. Please feel free to leave a comment as things go on. If you happen to have any pictures (dorky or otherwise) of either of us please e-mail them to us so we can post them.

As we have just started this adventure we really have nothing sorted out yet! We have the planning book (yet to read it) and a potential month (December 2006) but really thats all. Oh ya - I do have a ring on my finger!!!! So there will be heaps to update you all on.

To all of Andy's friends I am really looking forward to meeting you all. I have heard many stories and it will be great to put faces and names together.

Jill