A Bird's-Eye View

Dear Willow, it is for you we weep...

2010-04-30T14:47:00.000-07:00

Yesterday there was some sort of nasty weather front moving through and it was making a statement. There was no rain and no darkness in the sky, but there was wind. The kind of wind with gusts that shake your house and remind you that you are not invincible. And this wind shook not only the house but also our family.

This gorgeous baby willow grabbed our attention one day as we toured a nursery. We wanted a special tree, but we were not looking for a weeping willow. Maybe a sapling that promised to become a great maple or maybe even a towering birch. But this gentle little tree reached its delicate branches towards us (okay, maybe it was the breeze). Our logic jumped in to tell us that willows get huge, their roots are shallow and work their way into basements and septic systems. Avoid it. Do not buy it.

We bought it. It connected with us in some way that seems silly considering we are speaking of a tree. But this tree was planted in our yard, early in our marriage and shortly before our daughter was born. This tree seemed larger at the nursery but now seemed dwarfed by the scale of our home. But it was now part of our home and soon our newborn daughter would play under it. And soon after, her little brother would join in the fun. This tree, the ‘family tree’ grew as fast as our children.

The wind was howling as I folded laundry in the family room, I heard a very loud and grumbling noise. And then silence. I assumed it was the deck chairs being pushed around as if in a game of dodge ball. I headed onto the deck and began to fold and stack chairs so they could weigh each other down. But then I turned my head left and saw this:

I saw the weeping willow, looking defeated and hurt. I walked over to look closer at this poor limp tree all slumped on the ground. I stared for a moment and then went back inside to alert my husband. He came outside and we both stood there in silence.

All I could picture was the hurt that would be in my daughter’s eyes when she came home from school. My son was home and seemed more amazed than sad. However, as predicted, my daughter felt the pain. She is in mourning. It is an awful experience to see your child go through their first loss. No, it is not a person she has lost but a childhood friend nonetheless.

To be continued….

Happy 4th Birthday

2010-02-09T08:42:00.000-08:00

Any of you who know this little guy, knows how loving and challenging he can be and lucky for us, he is all ours! Happy Birthday Ben!

The First Day of Kindergarten

2009-09-03T17:05:00.001-07:00

Happy Father's Day

2009-06-22T17:05:00.000-07:00

God blessed us with this man.

Gymnastics Recital

2009-06-22T17:00:00.001-07:00

Isabel has been dutifully reporting to gymnastics all year and has had so much fun. She was quite timid each time she practiced 'In the middle of an Island' at home and did not want us to watch. Therefore, I was a bit nervous about how she would react when she saw that she was on stage but it went great. We are so proud.

Teacher's Gifts - Decoupaged Clip Boards

2009-06-04T13:45:00.000-07:00

Seeing as the year is coming to a close, we wanted to give the teachers a special gift. One that I hope they can actually use or at least find pretty to look at so I did some searching for some great ideas. I searched my favorite design, craft and idea blogs and let Isabel choose. She choose this idea from Design Mom. Luckily, there was also a tutorial on Michael's.com.

Since her school is nature based, we looked for school/nature themed paper. I hope you enjoy the photos. Isabel also made a card for each teacher expressing her love for them with words and a thousand hearts.

THANK YOU TEACHERS!

By way of Boston - The Freedom Trail

2009-05-31T15:43:00.000-07:00

I already had Boston on my mind as we are going there in 2 weeks and then came the latest edition of Family Fun magazine and it happened to have a very long article about The Freedom Trail. Now my kids are a bit younger so we have done and enjoy the usual for the preschool set: Harbor Tours, Children's Museum, New England Aquarium, Public Garden Park: the sweet bronze ducks from the book "Make way for ducklings" and the Swan Boats. They are great activities for many ages but you really should take a look at this article if you children are say 8 and up. What an educational and fun opportunity. They even recommend some books to read prior to your trip.

What are some of your favorite family memories or place to visit in Boston?

Jon & Kate Plus 8 - Your Thoughts

2009-05-27T17:10:00.000-07:00

Along with 10 million others, I tuned into to watch the season premiere of Jon & Kate Plus 8. Not because I wanted to have a front row seat to the scandal but because I have watched from the beginning. I spent 73 minutes watching a painfully sad event and I do not think I will be watching again. Why? here is enough negativity on TV shows/news etc. and that is one show I watched to smile and enjoy. At any rate, I found 2 posts I thought I would share and wonder what you, if anything, wish to add. Will you continue to watch?

First up: Dr, Michelle Golland, a relationship expert:

A relationship expert's advice to Jon and Kate: practice what you promised at your recommitment ceremony.
Dr. Michelle Golland: I have worked with enough couples and heard enough stories to know when I am witnessing the downward spiral of negativity and criticism, and the descent into divorce. I am sad to say that too many couples find themselves in this situation. Unfortunately, this is what I have seen with Jon and Kate.
With all the hoopla and commentary surrounding Jon and Kate's life, I decided to immerse myself in their marriage -- or at least, in what we see of it on TV. I went into the archives to hear them answer questions about their thoughts on marriage, how they met, etc.... I listened to the wedding vows they each wrote for wedding number one, and I watched the recently televised Hawaiian renewal of their vows.
What I would say to Jon and Kate starts with the two things I tell all couples who come to see me:
1) I am going to fight harder for your marriage than you are, because you have lost perspective and are living in an unconscious marriage.
2) I will tell you what I think and you may not like it very much. There will be times when each of you don't like me, or don't like what I am saying to you.
What I try to do with my clients is help them live in a Mindful Marriage. This is a marriage where you fully understand each other's history -- the good, the bad, and the ugly -- and you are each working for the betterment of the other. This is not easy, and it can take a lot of work to achieve this level of connection and understanding, but it is well worth it for you as an individual, a couple, and as a family.
I would like to truly try to help Jon and Kate by understanding how their marriage has run off the road and into the swamp of disappointment, resentment, and anger. I have read all the stories about Kate's criticism and controlling manner (and of course, her famous hair), but I see Kate as a victim of her own unconscious drives that have overrun her, her husband, and her family. I have also read the opinions of those who think Jon needs to "man up."
Jon and Kate married at the age of 22 and 24, respectively. They both have seemed to focus on this age difference as significant, although in reality it is not that large at all. So begins the setup for Kate to claim that she is the responsible one in the relationship, while Jon gets to play the part of the fun jokester. She is the parent, while he stays the child.
In Jon's original wedding vows, he thanks Kate for "accepting" him for who he is and believing in him. He promises to be her "provider." Kate talks about his free spirit and the joy that gives her. As any of you who watch the show know, Kate rarely likes his free spirit, doesn't accept him for who he is, and probably doesn't believe in him much anymore.
This is a sad reality, but what I think most impacts their marriage are Jon's unfulfilled dreams. He himself shares that he really never had the chance to find a career path, thus he hasn't fulfilled his "provider" role that was so important to him. He has become Kate's reluctant sidekick, while she has found her passion and her career as a celebrity, author, and mentor for other mothers. By allowing Kate's career to take over the family, Jon has lost the space to develop a separate sense of himself as a man, father, or husband. He is only defined by those around him.
In the renewal of their vows, Kate said, "I promise to love you more, speak more gently, and be more respectful and sensitive to your needs." Excellent, Kate -- but now comes the hard part: actually doing what we say. In the promo for the first show of the fifth season, I could see the depression oozing from Jon and the fear Kate has of losing the show and her lucrative and fulfilling career.
She thinks it's great that Jon can stay home with the kids and get paid for it. He does not, and when he tried to share his feelings about it, Kate cut him off and "told" him what he feels. Being sensitive to her husband's needs would instead entail seeing how this show and her own difficulty in allowing Jon to be himself is going to help usher in the end of their marriage.
Jon is not innocent in all this. He has been quietly and passive-aggressively colluding with this setup, because for a while, it worked. It allowed him to avoid looking at himself and his lack of career or accomplishments. It helped him numb out to his feelings of failure, but as we have witnessed, his coping skills are now ineffective and it is the dawn of a new day.
So here is my advice. Jon: stop rolling your eyes and stop backing down to Kate. This is not the time to have an adolescent rebellion, but to have a real shift into who you are and who you want to be in this life. Provide for your family; get to know yourself and your passions. Stand up and be the man you know you can be.
Kate: realize your controlling coping skills were very helpful and necessary as a mother dealing with eight infants and very little help. Your life has changed, however. The landscape has evolved, and your ways of coping are now damaging those around you. You have found your passion. Go forward with it, but free Jon to become who he needs and wants to be.
As a relationship expert, I believe we come together as couples to heal, challenge, and understand our past, create our best future, and become our most fulfilled selves. I truly believe -- whether there has been infidelity or not -- that Jon and Kate have the opportunity to make their marriage work. They need professional help and time to heal the wounds of the past and create the mindful marriage I hope they both desire. I wish them courage, self-reflection, and hope during this very public challenging time.

Mom Logic: http://www.momlogic.com/2009/05/jon_and_kate_expert_divorce.php?adid=052709_jon_kate

Creative Writing?

2009-05-17T11:39:00.001-07:00

Mr. D washed, peeled and chopped the carrots as instructed by his wife via an email. She is ill, in bed for the second day, and hoping that a large bowl of carrot-apple soup will cure her. Their sweet five year old is giving her dolls a bath while the handsome three year old is enjoying his afternoon slumber. What is mom doing in bed? planning, learning, coughing, scheming, dreaming, smiling, coughing, again and realizing that she has succumbed to her heightened senses at this moment. Could this be the result of too little rest and being sautéed like onions in the Florida sun for 7 days? Is she the unlucky recipient of a fellow flyers germ? What I am writing about? I do not know, I think my fever is back.

What is in my chest and Tweet Up in RI

2009-05-17T08:38:00.000-07:00

I am lying here, blogging in bed. I am wondering what it is that has me sick. Fever on and off, chest hurts badly, coughing, no head involvement. The rest of the family is at the Garden Market Fair choosing the vegetables for our garden. I know, we are a bit behind but we are getting there. On another topic, I am super excited about an event I just registered for called 'The Twitter Phenomenon explodes in Rhode Island'. Are you going? Thank you to 'The Daily Blonde' for tweeting about it.

Soda Crates

2009-05-16T15:49:00.000-07:00

It looks as if I need to take a drive to some Pottery Barn stores. I just saw that pottery barn was to sell these online and guess what? They are all gone! Any of you have contacts and can have these sent to me? Gosh, as a kid I could have gotten tons of these for free.

Our Fancy Nancy Party

2009-05-03T05:22:00.001-07:00

We had a very fun weekend celebrating Isabel's 5th birthday! We started with a Fancy Nancy themed party on Saturday. We made some cute Martha Stewart Pink Pom-poms for the playroom and went all out making a fancy table in the dining room including little pots with mini pom-poms and butterflies. She was so excited and picked out her ensemble. She also help choose her menu for the day. It consisted of: heart and star shaped ham and pb&j sandwiches, baby carrots and hummus, olives, goldfish, grapes and cheese sticks. Oh, and fizzy pink lemonade.

The cake: Isabel requested a bottom of chocolate and top of vanilla. She wanted some pink and fancy stuff so this was our creation.

Her party began with some free play time while we greeted parents, followed by some fancy nancy coloring pages and mazes. We then decorated some jewelry boxes with 'gems'. I had painted the rim pink and written a their names in glitter glue earlier in the week. The funniest thing was that Isabel asked me 'Mommy, why did you scribble on all of the jewelry boxes?'. I looked at them and realized that I had written in cursive-so funny!! Since everyone was hungry early, we ate lunch and then went outside to read some fancy nancy books. Daddy then took the girls on treasure hunts in the backyard for a while. We played with bubbles, took photos of each girl with Isabel and then opened gifts. Ben had his buddy Hudson over and they spent lots of time playing cars, trains and making bubbles for the girls to chase.

Happy Birthday my sweet fancy girl.

Uptown Office

2009-05-01T09:01:00.000-07:00

I am inspired. I have had a vision of my office for years now and this sums it up: painting my desk white, a colorful rug and bolder color on the wall. I have had a great blue chosen but have not yet taken the plunge.

My baby girl is 5!

2009-04-26T17:02:00.001-07:00

Easter 2009: Great Chocolate Cake, Food & Fun

2009-04-18T18:50:00.000-07:00

One of my greatest memories of Easter is how my paternal grandparents, I mean bunny, would hide 2 baskets for each of us in her house. I always knew that when I had kids, I would continue that tradition as it was so exciting for my sister and I to try to figure out where the baskets could be AND what would be in them. Here is what my children found (behind chairs, under tables and the bubbles on their place setting in the dining room) this year and we had so much fun watching them hunt.

Aren't my first attempt at royal icing cookies cute?

After looking at all of the treasures, we went and got dressed. The kids wanted us to try to dress alike so yellow shirts and jeans for the boys and pinks for the girls.

Finally, Isabel and I made a chocolate cake the day before and were quite proud of it, too bad the lighting was not better.

Love food? Come to my food blog, Savor The Thyme . By the way, I am entering this cake into the Easter Cake Bake 2009 at A Slice of Cherry Pie.

Countdown to her Birthday - Richard Scarry style

2009-04-16T15:16:00.000-07:00

Isabel has been so excited about reaching this milestone (5 years old!) that she was asking me numerous times a day 'how many days mommy?' and 'Is that a long time?'. So, I decided we needed to make a calendar to assist in visualization and to give her something to be excited about everyday we got closer. Don't you love the Richard Scarry characters?

A necessity

2009-04-14T17:11:00.000-07:00

I need this. I do, I can feel it in my bones. I am going to dream about it. Which color? both! that is what I was thinking.

Here comes Peter Cottontail

2009-04-11T09:24:00.000-07:00

Color me some Easter Eggs

2009-04-09T17:30:00.001-07:00

After opening the first box of egg coloring to find it was empty, I found myself reassuring the children that we would color eggs today and we did. They loved it. By the way, remember to buy white eggs not 2 cartons of brown eggs.

Ready for the Egg Hunt

2009-04-05T10:01:00.000-07:00

Our two little bunnies were very excited to go to a friend's house for an Easter Egg Hunt. I will post more pictures from the hunt this week.

Pick my nose

2009-04-02T06:54:00.000-07:00

Attention: I am hoping that these cups are well stocked at the huge surprise birthday party that will be thrown for me in December. Yes, hint to all of you.

A reminder about a positive attitude

2009-03-25T17:23:00.001-07:00

Back in the day (pre-children), I worked in the pharmaceutical corporate world and often interacted with a lovely woman who always had a smile, a bounce in her step and was eager to assist. So it came to no surprise when this lovely lady started pursuing her passion of personal coaching. We have spent quite a bit of time together in the past few months and I can honestly say I look forward to her posts as they are well written reminders of how our positive visions, goals and attitude are important and offer unlimited opportunities. Please take some time to read at 'A place to learn and develop yourself.'

Love in Newport

2009-03-25T14:58:00.000-07:00

This past weekend we went to Newport for Newport Restaurant Week (read more about it here) and some fun. After nibbling, we went to the beach and enjoyed the scenery.

Trish for Target

2009-03-20T10:35:00.000-07:00

While flipping through the newest edition of InStyle magazine, this photo caught my eye. It is a new limited edition line for Target from their 'Design for All' series featuring Miss Trish. Wouldn't these look sweet with a nice manicure?

Monkey and Coffee

2009-03-15T12:33:00.000-07:00

I must be craving coffee as I just posted about donuts below and now this picture of Ben at a Dunkin Donuts. We had such a good time spending an hour reading books (and yes, ate a donut) before we had to pick Bel up from school. Ben just wanted to look a books while I read magazines and then after a bit, I would read to him. This brand new 3 year old does not usually stay on a task that long. Does that mean he is growing up? NO, don't say that.

Time to make the Donuts

2009-03-15T12:31:00.001-07:00

I am salivating. Yes, I know, you should not chew your toys but would you blame your kids for sticking these in their mouths? Adorable.

Tweet Tweet! 7 Useful Twitter Tips

2009-03-11T15:18:00.000-07:00

I know, I know, I have already posted about a million great things about twitter but it seems endless. Check out this short yet super informative article from geeksugar.

Pingg evites from Martha Stewart

2009-03-06T03:36:00.000-08:00

Did you all see what Design Mom found? She always posts about the best and most creative things in the world, well, at least in America. Don't know what Pingg is? They have very elegant, classy, fabulous free evites.

Bride's Party: Part II

2009-03-04T03:29:00.001-08:00

Curious about part II? Head over the Savor The Thyme and enjoy.

Hugging not choking

2009-03-02T17:33:00.001-08:00

Isabel loves to take pictures all the time like Mommy (she is always seeing me take pics of food for my food blog and them for fun) so she asked Ben and I to pose today. The photos crack me up because he was having a blast but it looks like I am choking him.

Big Boy Bed for Ben

2009-02-24T14:24:00.000-08:00

Can you feel the excitement?

Tea Towels

2009-02-23T10:53:00.000-08:00

I love pretty hand & tea towels-they actually make me smile while doing all the wonderfully mundane household tasks and these fit the bill. I can't wait to dry my clean hands on them.

My little reader

2009-02-22T10:45:00.001-08:00

Yes, I must brag. I realize that all of us have super smart kids that are 'above average'. So, while at the book store 2 days ago, I spotted this great collection of sight word books by Innovative Kids and bought the 'pre-reader' set. I have spent a little time yesterday and today and my daughter now can identify/read at least a dozen words and we have put little sentences together with them. So much fun and I am so proud.

Eating your Words - A Challenge

2009-02-19T18:27:00.001-08:00

Have you seen the challenge I have going on at Savor The Thyme? Check it out and get your creative juices flowing.

Basically, it is a fun contest using food or drink to spell or write! I had so much fun writing in pancake batter that I could only imagine what others could come up with. You have until March 6th so get in the kitchen!

Valentine's Day Love

2009-02-17T04:43:00.001-08:00

We went 5 star this year and dined out at Applebee's on Valentine's Day.

Mud Play

2009-02-11T13:38:00.000-08:00

This is what happens the first day of a thaw.

All Bride's Party: Part I

2009-02-08T10:49:00.001-08:00

A lovely friend of mine hosted a 'bride's party' Saturday night. The concept was that all of us Mommy's would shimmy ourselves into our original wedding gowns and have a lovely dinner and share stories/photos. Before I share more about the evening, I will share the pre-event. It was very sweet to get all dressed up again but this time have our children watching me. They were so excited and thought Mommy was a princess in her gown and fancy jewelry.

Real Simple Checklists - find yours!

2009-02-04T06:12:00.000-08:00

Real Simple has thoughtfully provided us all checklists. What you say? Yes, checklists from gift-giving checklists to wedding planning worksheets. Start here and find the ones you need.

Creamy Cami from J. Crew

2009-02-03T04:03:00.001-08:00

I think this is a lovely little cami, especially to wear to school orientation in the spring...hint Mr. Dom.

Martha Stewart Paper Lanterns

2009-02-01T15:23:00.000-08:00

Such pretties from Martha Stewart Crafts. Gave me some great ideas for Isabel's 5th bday party.

Letter Press at Target

2009-02-01T13:01:00.000-08:00

I was innocently walking though Target when I spotted some simply gorgeous stationary and had to stop to take a look. The line is called 'Letter imPress and there are some lovely designs to choose from. Take a look.

Superbowl snack-a-thon: Healthy alternatives

2009-01-30T06:54:00.000-08:00

Go over to Savor The Thyme for an all day Superbowl snack-a-thon for food ideas that you will not be ashamed of indulging in.

Words by Nie-nie

2009-01-29T10:51:00.001-08:00

The way this woman and her sister write is so moving to me. Topic does not matter but the saga that has ensued since August and now the new life they are beginning is just a reminder to the truly wonderful things we take for granted every day. Embrace them.

Sushi for Baby

2009-01-28T03:20:00.000-08:00

What? Check out these adorable washcloths! Tell me this would not be the hit of the baby shower?

Holy Tweets Batman!

2009-01-26T08:54:00.000-08:00

Are you crazy about Twitter but know very little about it and all of its' uses? Me too! Go here and learn more. I am so excited!

Recycled Toys & Backpacks

2009-01-25T17:53:00.000-08:00

No, I am not talking about hand me downs, I am talking about this company that recycle plastics to make new kids toys and this one that uses them to make kids backpacks.

Rollerskating Fun - Isabel

2009-01-25T13:39:00.001-08:00

Isabel was not pleased with the fact that we were wrong and it was roller, not ice, skating party that we were attending. However, the colored lights and disco lights peaked her interest and there was no stopping her.

Rollerskating Fun - Ben

2009-01-25T13:31:00.000-08:00

We had our first experience taking the kids (and ourselves in 25 years) roller skating. So much fun! Ben refused, tried, revolted and then, yes, enjoyed and giggled while at it.

Matches from Areo

2009-01-22T16:22:00.000-08:00

I have coveted these for a very long time. There are so many wonderful choices and a lovely wedding, shower or hostess gift.

Ben at the Firehouse

2009-01-21T19:40:00.000-08:00

We had a great playdate at the local firehouse and this was Ben's reaction when I said it was time to go.

The sweetest things from Paper Source

2009-01-21T14:14:00.000-08:00

Paper source has the best eye candy in papers. Any time I look at their products, I crave creativeness.

More treats from Oh Happy Day

2009-01-21T12:53:00.001-08:00

I promised to share more from Jordan's Pretty Little Things Club. Here was the loot from December. She included some items from her Stuck Labels company.

Olivia is coming!

2009-01-21T12:50:00.000-08:00

My family is very excited that Olivia is coming to life on T.V. It is very sweet to us as we have so many great memories involving reading Olivia books for almost 5 years. The show premieres on Monday, January 26th at 11:30 a.m.

Gwynth tells us to Go

2009-01-19T17:48:00.001-08:00

Have you gotten any newsletters from GOOP yet? Well, the latest was Ms. Paltrow telling us about her favorite places in NYC. Does anyone know what GOOP stands for or its' significance?

Pottery Barn Giveaway

2009-01-18T09:15:00.000-08:00

Check out this giveaway over at Savor The Thyme. Tell all your friends.

Sending you love

2009-01-15T17:49:00.001-08:00

Ben and I are sending you some love for the long weekend. Give hugs to everyone that your care about-really, get to it.

Wall Candy

2009-01-14T18:34:00.000-08:00

Am I the only one that has cabin fever and wants to start redecorating? My daughter is almost 5 and is letting me know her design desires each day. My son is almost 3 and needs to move out of baby into full toddler room and these fantastic removable wall stickies are giving me some great ideas.

Nie Nie is coming back!

2009-01-14T17:52:00.000-08:00

The wait is almost over! Nie will be back to

blogging tomorrow, Friday 16th. If you do not know

about Nie, read this and more on her blog and

you see why to be excited about her return.

Clearing the Clutter

2009-01-13T18:14:00.000-08:00

One of my resolutions from last year that was not successfully accomplished was that of 'Clearing the Clutter'. I am always trying to be organized yet I never feel organized because there is too much clutter (I have too many 'hiding spots'). I have been working on a plan the past few days and look what came in my email box? An email from My Home Ideas about daily tips to clear the clutter. Start now.

Dr. Oz's tips to a Healthier Life

2009-01-13T18:08:00.000-08:00

Even if you do not watch Oprah, do yourself a favor and look over this Health Checklist.

Valentine's Craft and Sweets by Martha Stewart

2009-01-13T11:55:00.000-08:00

Stop what you are doing right now and go register for a two-week online course at Martha Stewart Living. The are going to show you techniques for creating unique cards, heartfelt gifts, and special treats for your loved ones this Valentine's Day. What a wonderful way to get great ideas and make something for those you love.

Homemade Headbands - a lovely mother daughter craft

2009-01-13T04:28:00.000-08:00

My daughter is all into being a girlie-girl (but loves hiking and tools) and looking 'fancy' some days so after we saw this post on Design Mom, we went right to the store and got to crafting. She also had her first slumber party coming and wanted to make one for the birthday girl. Now we are planning another trip to the store and have many design ideas.

In case you were wondering about the sleepover: I made it. barely. little sleep. My baby spent her first night over a friend's house. I missed her so much. So proud of her. Breath deeply Mom.
The headbands were a hit.

Pretty Little Things make me say 'Oh Happy Day'

2009-01-12T10:47:00.000-08:00

Have you been to 'Oh Happy Day'? If not, you are a part of only a handful of folks who are not fans-go there right now. At any rate, a few months back, Jordan started the 'Pretty Little Things Club' (PLT). You could either purchase a 6 or 12 month subscription via her Etsy store. Basically, every month, she sends you a pretty little thing. I have had so much fun, bouncing like a little girl on her birthday each time the lovely package comes. Below is the 'PLT' for January.

Silhouette Giveaway at Simple Finds

2009-01-11T15:48:00.000-08:00

Be sure to enter to win this Silhouette craft cutter at Simple Finds. Would you finally get that scrapbooking done? I would for sure.

Oprah's BestLife series of Webcasts

2009-01-11T14:42:00.000-08:00

Do you need some inspiration getting yourself back into shape? Every show last week was dedicated to 'living your Best Life'. Well, starting this week, she is having a series so five nights of webcasts to address the topic. Go here to register and get started!

Valentine's Cards & Crafts

2009-01-11T14:07:00.000-08:00

This year I will have my 4 year old make Valentine's cards for her friends. I have been looking for some ideas and found some great ones. The great part of the butterfly is that you are also giving a piece of candy and we love to go visit our downtown candy store. For my son, maybe we will print some and have him 'sign' them.

My kids, as most, love to do crafts and there is nothing like glue sticks and crinkling up paper so this looks like a great option.

I will be giving my children and hubby some vintage inspired cards-I love the vintage feel. Are you making cards/crafts for to give or put up in your home? If so, what are some of your resources/ideas?

Anthropologie Bedding

2009-01-09T04:19:00.000-08:00

The girlie, romantic side of me would love to wake up in this bedding however, my husband would probably feel like he was losing some testosterone.

Things I Enjoy: Cavallini

2009-01-08T11:57:00.001-08:00

I love just about anything that Cavallini puts out.

Umbrella

2009-01-08T11:34:00.000-08:00

Monday was a very rainy, and windy day here and as I walked in my inadequate weather gear, I was once again reminded how badly I need to buy a sturdy umbrella...unlike the girl in the photo.

Leisure Time Inspiration from Oh Happy Day

2009-01-06T07:50:00.000-08:00

Looks at Jordan's lovely gift idea. Although I have a folder with ideas, torn out sheets, menus etc. in them, I like this much better and am going to start working on it.

Homemade Headbands

2009-01-05T13:50:00.000-08:00

Isabel and I am going to attempt to make a few of these this week...thank you Design Mom for the crafty inspiration.

Chiffon Dreams by J. Crew

2009-01-05T13:45:00.000-08:00

Oh me likey very muchy.....pardon my English but oh J. Crew, please send this to me (in small) and I will wear for a week with a sign that says "Order me from J. Crew"

Happy New Year

2009-01-01T06:30:00.000-08:00

May 2009 be wonderful for you! These monkeys made it until almost 11.

The girlies went until 12:30. Did we all have that energy at 4?

Game on!

2008-12-29T18:02:00.001-08:00

Isabel and Ben spent quite a bit of time playing Air Hockey before they even noticed the other gifts under the tree.

Christmas Hugs

2008-12-25T05:59:00.001-08:00

Isabel and Ben used their own money from their piggy banks to get each other a gift. Isabel made the wrapping paper and starting next year, they will make gifts instead of buying for one another.

Fancy Nancy Cookie Soiree

2008-12-23T11:17:00.000-08:00

A twist to making cookies for Santa? Make them the Fancy Nancy way and add sparkle and glitter.

Wrap it up Martha

2008-12-22T03:22:00.001-08:00

I was woken by a toddler at 4:30. She is back to sleep but I am not. What to do now? How about wrap the gifts?! I am loving some of the Martha wraps at Michael's.

Our Attempt

2008-12-19T12:50:00.000-08:00

Isabel and I could not possible wait for the boys to finish resting before we played in the snow. Here is our attempt at a 'Mommy and Isabel' Snow Angels.

Snow Angels

2008-12-18T16:45:00.001-08:00

Tomorrow will be magical: Daddy off from work, snowstorm coming with promises of my little angel's bundled up so tight they can barely move, sledding down our hill, making a family of snowmen and cups of hot cocoa. My entire body will be warmed by the joy in my heart.

MY Mug

2008-12-16T14:21:00.000-08:00

A lovely friend gave me a wonderful gift from Anthro this weekend:
the perfect monogrammed mug with the letter 'J'. I wonder
how long until a child breaks it?

12 Days of Giveaways

2008-12-15T18:51:00.001-08:00

Did you see what is going on at Design Mom? Go quickly!

Christmas Mustaches

2008-12-14T05:31:00.001-08:00

I received some great little mustaches from Jordan from Oh Happy Day as part of the Pretty Little Things Club and had a great time with them.

Princess Promenade (named by Isabel)

2008-12-11T07:39:00.001-08:00

Isabel spent her morning drawing all the princesses
she could name. Please admire each lovingly. From left to right:
Row 1: Sleeping Beauty, Cinderella, Ariel
Row 2: Belle, Jasmine, Pocahontas
Row 3: Mulan

Save Handmade Children Products

2008-12-10T11:39:00.000-08:00

All,

I have found a post on Design Mom who links back to Cool Mom Picks describing legislation that will result in the ban of all handmade children's items. Please read and act.

My Magazine Fantasy

2008-12-09T11:36:00.000-08:00

Have you heard of this new service? Checkout Maghound.

A day of Gifts

2008-12-07T17:07:00.001-08:00

Here is what a wonderful birthday I had: Our day began by meeting a wonderful family that we shared a Holiday Hayride with, we choose our tree (artificial for 4 years), enjoyed lunch and began stringing lights. As expected, some of the lights were no good and we accepted that it we needed some new ones. Then I received many phone calls and the aforementioned family came by with a gift and sweet cards made by the children. During their visit, I was serenaded and presented with the cake that my hubby and children made to celebrate. To top it all off, I went to my sweet (and amazingly talented photographer) friend's house where she hosted a lovely intimate evening with a few ladies. I walked into the house to my waiting husband and off to bed.

Are you a follower?

2008-12-03T18:10:00.000-08:00

Hello Everyone out there! Do you enjoy visiting this blog?

If so, please click on the 'Follow this Blog' button to the right

of this post. I would love to know who enjoys this blog and would

love to check out yours if you have one.

Silly Reindeer

2008-12-03T05:08:00.000-08:00

Isabel and I were enjoying a meal at the Detroit Airport when she suddenly decided to get silly with a wet-nap and asked me to photograph her.

Santa Clause came to Town

2008-12-02T08:25:00.000-08:00

Every year, the Friday after Thanksgiving, we stroll downtown

and await Santa's arrival (via Firetruck) followed by a trip to the

old fashioned Candy Store. Then a gathering for Hot Chocolate and

Apple Pie followed that! Hello sugar high.

What (IF)?

2008-12-01T08:30:00.000-08:00

Support Worlds Aids Day at Starbucks!
Come on, you know you want a coffee drink!

Santa Mobile

2008-11-30T06:18:00.000-08:00

What before my eyes appear? Santa riding around with no deer!
While waiting at the Charlotte airport Monday, Santa
was riding around the airport bringing cheer. Isabel was too intimidated
to jump into the car for a pic so Mom did. Please excuse the photo,
but we only had disposable (remember, Isabel broke the camera? now fixed)

Isabel is Thankful for...

2008-11-29T04:08:00.001-08:00

'I love my mommy, my daddy and Ben-Ben. My Barbies
and Ponies and thank you for making Turkey. I am thankful for food.'

Ben is Thankful for...

2008-11-28T05:48:00.000-08:00

'Ben, are you thankful for Mommy, Daddy and Isabel?' 'Yeah'
'Are you thankful for Nana and Grandpa?' 'Yeah'
'Are you thankful for Vovo, Vava and Manny?' 'Yeah, but Manny not there'
'Are you thankful for the kitties?' 'Yeah'.....'I like my roll'

Gobble Gobble

2008-11-27T16:13:00.000-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving and guess what? Our camera is fixed. The kids are showing off their crafts. Ben made his in class last week and Isabel insisted that we make a Turkey Table Topper. While in S.C., their daughter was making one for the big day so Isabel has been talking about it since we got home. Her topper held our biscuits. Yum.

Here we come S.C.

2008-11-18T17:31:00.001-08:00

We made the sudden decision for me & Isabel to fly to S.C. to visit some friends. We will be back Monday night.

Funny Faces at Santa's Village

2008-11-17T18:48:00.000-08:00

We were just was going through New Hampshire photos

from this summer and when we ran across these, we had a few

good laughs and wanted to share. Hope these bring some joy to

your day.

Me want badly

2008-11-14T07:55:00.001-08:00

Could I even make anything similar to this? Me likely lots.

Anthro Tree Trim

2008-11-14T07:48:00.000-08:00

If I could only have them all: Click below watch the lovely display come to life.

http://www.anthropologie.com/anthro/catalog/category.jsp?popId=HOLIDAYHOME&fromDisplayPage=fromDisplayPage&navAction=jump&navCount=1&pushId=DECOR_HOLIDAY&id=DECOR_HOLIDAY

The First Time

2008-11-12T18:29:00.000-08:00

The time has finally come: after 4 years, 6 months and 20 days, Isabel is having her first sleepover with her buddy Maddie who is 3 days older. My baby is growing up.

Going Green Gala

2008-11-07T07:11:00.000-08:00

I am running around preparing for the Going Green Gala tomorrow! I promise to fill you in and update with more family pictures as well. Please check out www.DPNC.org to learn more about the Gala and Nature Center.