On our trip home.

We were so lucky to get to go to Australia this May + June for a family visit. We had such a fantastic trip, spending time with everyone. & with getting engaged, it became the trip of a lifetime :).

We got to visit Little Creatures Brewery, which had some great food & beer. We did their brewery tour & gained a whole new respect for the brewing process; no more "this beer sucks!" from us, that's for sure. One of the coolest things about this place was the free beer tasting after the tour (although we got a before AND after taste because we're good like that), & their cider was delish.

Lucky us managed to get home before Dad's birthday! It was totally rad to be there to celebrate with him - I won't insult him by sharing how damn old he's getting ;). We also celebrated Eric's 24th & had a lovely homemade oreo cheesecake.

There was a pretty bad storm while we were there, knocking out the power for a few days. Blessing in disguise, really, because we spent the nights playing blackjack & trivia. We got out to go bowling, go to a few pubs, & finally took a day trip to the Swan Valley to visit some wineries. That was a wonderful day & I think next time we'll stay in a cottage for a few days for some good exploration. My favorite winery was Olive Farm Wines - beautiful, modern building, great tasting guide, & even better wine.

Our trip back to the good ol' USA started with the usual teary snotfest down the aisle of the airplane (people find a cryer really uncomfortable on a plane, I have noooo idea why...), but the flight attendants were really kind & offered us champagne & snacks as a congrats on our engagement! We scored Qantas Club passes for Sydney & great seats for the entire flight home.

I just already can't wait to get back.

Be good, guys.
Chloë xx.

On beginnings.

I am starting this blog to share with friends & family (who are spread farther & wider than I'd ever prefer) Eric & I's life together.

The story: We are high school sweethearts & long-time fans of us (loud & proud since 2005). We moved in together in 2006, bought a sweet little house in 2010, & picked up a few furballs along the way (our cats Vegas & Monkey, our dachshund Satchmo, & a big bloodhound named Caruso).

Eric & I were formally engaged on May 26, 2012 at my dad's house in Australia. It was the happiest moment of my life thus far, as I pledged my commitment to my best friend in front of an audience of 40 - family, oldest friends, & my greatest loves.

Us & Dad, with the family sword.

My incredible engagement ring!

& now the planning begins! We looked at our first venue today, & we are making appointments to view more next week. I am overwhelmed, but *oh my gosh* so happy.

Not only do I want to share this experience (& everything to come), I want to find a way to hold onto all of the breath-taking moments. I want vivid memories that will last long into our future together.

We hope you enjoy our little blog, please sit & stay awhile.

Chloe & Eric xx.