Dita's Darlings

Favorite Photo Friday: New Beginnings

2011-11-18T13:12:00.002-05:00

A cool windy November day on the beach...
no sunbathers, frisbees, brightly colored umbrellas, coolers, laughter, sandcastles.

Somehow the quiet yet powerful sound of the waves lapping on the shore
reminds us that the possibilities are endless.

We weren't planning on being here today, but sometimes in life...we're put right where we should be
just to allow us to witness the next beautiful thing that will surely come our way.

To New Beginnings!

It's Favorite photo Friday.

Head on over to Lisa's place to see some great photos from some awesome photographers.

Favorite Photo Friday: Smiles & Stripes

2011-10-28T22:46:00.001-04:00

Sweetie and I took a ride down the shore to visit a dear friend of mine last week.

While we were chatting, I saw her through the screen door on the patio; overlooking the beach, amusing herself and just enjoying the absolutely gorgeous day.

As I grabbed my camera I told her that if I ever

had a little girl one day I'd like her to be just like her...

To which she responded.....

MOMMY!! I'm already all yours!

Oh, little girl...you are my dream come true!

It's Favorite Photo Friday at The Long Road to China...head on over to see some really great snaps from some very talented photographers!

Sunday Snapshot: Leaving 3

2011-09-25T22:17:00.004-04:00

Yep, that's right....we are winding down the last few hours of 3.

What a wonderful year it has been.

The memory of my Sweetie at 3 will bring a smile to my face always.

I'm so glad I took the time to chronicle this year in photos as a reminder of the wonder and joy she has brought to all of us this magical third year.

At 3, my Sweetie's absolute favorite place to be (other than with her Nana) is in front of a plate of sushi at the best sushi restaurant in town.

She loves her Daddy to pieces.

And her brother? Well, it's more than fair to say he is adored beyond words.

Every single day she surely exemplifies sugar, spice and everything nice

(with a smile and a soft little voice that has been known to melt even the coolest of hearts)

She has just the right dose of charm and sass to ensure that no matter what life brings she will ingratiate herself wherever she wants to be and have the smarts, guts and gumption to pull it off....all by herself!

Thank you for sharing THREE with us, my Darling Girl.....

I cannot wait to see what year FOUR has in store!

You are our heart!

xoxoxox

Mama

(a.k.a. the luckiest Mom in the world!)

It's Snapshot Sunday over at Ni Hao Y'all and its Poppy's Birthday...
Head on over and share the love!

See With Your Eyes

2011-09-16T20:31:00.000-04:00

Mom...can we just go and look at that fountain over there?

Oh, well.....okay, just don't get wet we have several more stops to make after this.

Okay, Mom........we won't touch it.....promise....

Kids will be kids!

And I wouldn't have it any other way!

It's Favorite Photo Friday at Long Road to China

Black & White Wednesday: Nose to the Grindstone

2011-09-06T23:09:00.005-04:00

With all the hustle and bustle going on 'round these parts

I've been keeping my head down,

trying to get the things done that I've been putting off for way too long

and focusing on the future...taking it

~~all in stride~~ one day at a time.

Sure am missing my old blog hopping days though....

I may be out of sight, but you're never out of mind, Ladies!

Hugs.....from your old friend.

To see some fun black and white images from some fab photographers,

click on over to The Long Road to China
for Lisa's final installment of Black and White Wednesdays

But never fear.....the ever creative, ever talented
Lisa
has always got a Plan B

Can't wait for
Favorite Photo Friday!
Whoo Hoo!

Daddy's Girl

2011-08-18T15:08:00.005-04:00

JR was off from work today.

His sidekick was busy as a bee following him around and "helping."

I heard music outside the garage (the beat of JR's unmistakeable dance music reliving his old club days) so I thought I'd have a peek what was going on.

As soon as I opened the door I saw her there....topless.

I asked where her shirt was and she responded..."Papa's not wearing a shirt so neither am I."

And she happily went about her business.

The green marker on both their faces was her morning art project.

I hope JR remembered to let her use the washable markers!

Snapshot Sunday: {Strike A Pose}

2011-08-14T23:14:00.001-04:00

Evidently, the camera that is appended to my anatomy has given rise to a one-girl posing machine.

No matter where she is; what she's doing....she'll look up at me and say, "Mom, this would make a good picture, wouldn't it?" (Even when I don't have the camera in hand!)

When we drive she'll see a wooded field, a green golf course or an architecturally interesting building and she from the backseat we'll hear..."Mom, that would be a great place for pictures!" JR and I crack up...she's always thinkin' that one.

THREE going on TWENTY THREE!

Whatever did we do before she came into our lives?

For some fantastic snaps of some super cool kiddos....head on over to Stefanie's crib and join the fun!

Black & White Wednesday: Snakeskin Boots

2011-08-10T00:00:00.005-04:00

Sixteen years ago my precious niece, Tigerlily, received these custom snakeskin boots from Grandma & Grandpa when they traveled out West.

The moment I saw them on her I just knew that there was no way I could ever part with them...and if she had to grow up...well, then, the boots would remind me how little she was forever and ever and they do....

Actually, they remind me of Tigerlily and WonderBoy because he sported them too. A rite of passage of sorts...cooler than cool; the kind of hand-me-down kids can't wait to get their feet into.

And now, the littliest of the 3 babies in my life finally fits in them. I was saving them in the back of her closet for her to grow into a wee bit more...but I don't really need to tell you how willful she is now, do I?

She called me out to the yard the other day and there she was, proud as a peacock in this little ensemble put together by none other than Princess Darling herself.... she was hunting for "glow in the dark" bugs she told me (lightning bugs, as I call them....or fireflies).

I didn't have the heart to tell her that she wouldn't be finding any in broad daylight.

P.S.
I'm.never.giving. these. boots. away.

It's Black and White Wednesday!
To see some great images from some fantastic photographers,

click on over to The Long Road to China

I Heart Faces: {Friendship}

2011-08-09T21:25:00.009-04:00

Two special boys who started out arch rivals.

Lo and behold....have become the best of friends.

Hop on over to iheartfaces to see some fantastic Friendship entries

Precious Moments

2011-07-18T22:20:00.025-04:00

I took these shots the night of the kids' first ever dance recital

(HERE and HERE)

We were so fortunate that they had a chance to experience this special moment together and I'm even happier I got to capture so many precious memories through my own tears of joy!

It there was ever a question as to the love shared by these two...here's the answer!

Hip Hop

2011-07-18T22:05:00.017-04:00

Though she's the Tiniest...Sweetie isn't the only dancer in this house.

WonderBoy started taking a weekly co-ed Hip Hop Class at the same dance studio where his sister took ballet all year.
Much to our surprise and delight, he loved every minute of the classes and this handsome young man can add Hip Hop Dancer Extraordinaire to his resume!
He was absolutely fantastic in the final at the end of year performance (the same performance his sister was featured in much earlier in the evening.)

JR and I were so incredibly proud of him, all the hard work he put in throughout the year and his enthusiam and stellar moves; let's just say it was hard for this Mama Bear to hold the camera still I was so excited.

WonderBoy was a SUPERSTAR!

(not one of the best pictures I've ever taken but I love his expression here and I just had to include it even though it is not in focus)

And, here's the long awaited VIDEO!

Be sure to go to the bottom of this blog and pause the music so you can hear the T*aio Cruz* song the kids danced to before you press play on the video

Wordless Wednesday

2011-07-13T00:01:00.001-04:00

Tiny Dancers

2011-06-30T01:21:00.000-04:00

Sweetie had her very first dance recital last week.
She and JJ have taken ballet and tap lessons together every Saturday for the whole year.

This was their moment to shine.

And shine they did.
Yeah, it wasn't easy holding the camera wiping back the tears.

Girls...you were OUTSTANDING!
xoxoxo

A is for Audrey

2011-06-21T22:33:00.005-04:00

Sweetie has a drawer of play clothes that she can choose from when she wants to dress herself.
When she spilled chocolate ice cream all over the shirt she was wearing I asked her to please go to her "play clothes" drawer and change her shirt.

She dutifully obliged and on her way out of her room she said, "Mama, close your eyes because I have a surprise for you." I closed my eyes....(peeking ever so slightly)

Then with sheer delight she said,

"Open your eyes...SURPRISE....I'm wearing YOU on my shirt!"

Oh, my daughter...bless your great big heart.....how you made my day!

Stealer of Hearts

2011-06-02T20:04:00.000-04:00

Black & White Wednesday: Intersection of Long Road to China & Darling Street

2011-06-01T00:18:00.020-04:00

This is one of my favorite intersections on the Long Road to China.

The Fab Five and we Darlings have met up on several occasions over the years.
It started innocently a few years back...just Lisa and me having an impromptu lunch. Lisa's job takes her near and far...luckily, one of the "far" spots is an hour and a half across the border into the Garden State.

We've spent time together at photography workshops, get togethers with friends/fellow bloggers, etc. Our rendezvous' vary...sometimes they include some of the kids, all of the kids, both the kids and husbands, you name it. We're even apt to throw in a Texan or Two, we're crazy like that!

This time we decided to make a weekend out of it and, despite the rain that poured down on our BBQ causing us to move indoors THREE times, we weren't dissuaded from having the stellar time we always do.

Lisa, ever the overachiever, wrote all about our weekend last week HERE and, in true Dita fashion, I am late to the party...but I come bearing gifts...lots and lots of photos!

The girls cornered the market on bubble blowing and perched high atop the swing set for the better part of two days.

They did occasionally take time out to make some tea for themselves and their littlest tea party guest.

The boys played video games, ate, watched movies, ate, horsed around, ate, riled the girls, ate, smooched Reagan, ate, slept and ate.

After her bath, Reagan discovered the joy of light sticks and I'm not sure who had more fun with them; Reagan or my mom watching Reagan's fascination with them!

The slightly over 20 contingent gabbed incessantly, drank yummy sweet peach tea cocktails, ate, enjoyed one another, ate, smiled watching our kids play so sweetly together, snuggled Reagan, ate, moved the food in and out and in and out again...ate, slept, ate and generally had a great time just hangin' in on a rainy weekend (eating!) so effortlessly together.

Sweetie got "sweet" on Handsome Nick!
C'mon, with a face like that and the personality to match, can you really blame her?

And I believe I could hear Sarah's heart pounding with excitement from 10 paces when the Boy Wonder would sneak up on her in plain sight and "scare" her. Yes, I can hear the screams of glee still in the backyard!

Saying goodbye is always the hardest part.
No one was happy to say goodbye to our friends...but it did hit Sweetie like a ton of bricks...
she sobbed "Nick, NIck....NICK!" the second their car pulled out of the driveway.

She definitely deserves the Oscar....or the NICK, as the case may be!

There was no consoling her and, as you can see from these photos...it was so heartbreaking even JR got misty...AND Wonderboy, well, he got awfully quiet and just kept telling me he missed them and what a good time they had.

Of course, we've begun making plans for the next visit already, but for now, the memories of our wonderful weekend together remain tucked in each of our hearts.

To see some great images from some fantastic photographers, click on over to The Long Road to China

Timeless Beauty

2011-05-22T00:20:00.001-04:00

Black & White Wednesday: Backyard Starlet

2011-05-17T23:42:00.028-04:00

You have the power to bring the world to you.

I've been watching you, Little Miss.

Just with a glance;

your sly little smile and the twinkling in your eye

renders mere mortals helpless beneath your gaze.

You are sheer perfection from the tip of your nose to the bottom of your toes.

Where did you come from, my love?

Even I, with the grandest of imaginations, could never have dreamed you.

I am in a state of constant amazement when I hear the things that come out of you mouth.

At three years old you ask me what I'm thinking...and you actually wait for an answer.

Tonight when I told you that one day I'll be the Nana to your daughter, you cried and told me that I just couldn't do that because you always need me to be the Mommy.

That feisty personality of yours just cracks me up.

It is the perfect foil to your truly compassionate, comforting and oh, so loving side.

I will remember these mornings for the rest of my life when you wake to find me up already

and beg me with sheer urgency to come back with you to bed to snuggle "in the nest"

...my sweet baby bird.

I honestly don't know how we trudged along in life without you.

Not a day goes by when your father, your brother and I don't look at you and

beam as we fall deeper in love with our little treasure.
(And don't think we don't see the glee in that gorgeous little face when you realize that all eyes are on you!)

You are, by far, the icing on the cake of life!

*Thank you for sitting still for the 5 minutes before our guests arrived on Easter to let me capture the beauty that is you!

It's Black and White Wednesday!
To see some great images from some fantastic photographers,

click on over to The Long Road to China

Happy 12th Birthday, WonderBoy!

2011-05-16T00:03:00.000-04:00

A few weeks ago, the Boy Wonder turned 12.

We celebrated his birthday with family on Easter and again several times that week with those who weren't able to join us on Easter.

We discovered an amazing bakery right in our neighborhood; actually, its the baker who's amazing. She's so creative that we can't pass by without picking up one of her sweet treats on a regular basis. Let's just say we've stopped trying to look for reasons to have cake because we're powerless under her spell.

WonderBoy decided he wanted to have a camouflage chocolate on chocolate cake (big surprise, right?!)
The baker was excited about creating something special and one of a kind for him so she requested his favorite toys for the top of the cake.
WonderBoy rummaged through the ridiculous amount of army men, tanks and aircraft he's amassed these last dozen years and came up with a few of his favorites. Although they're indoor toys, I had to wrestle with him to soak them overnight and then he and his father delivered them to the baker the following day. He couldn't understand why I insisted on washing them and he wasn't happy with me at all....

Until he saw his cake, that is....and then he was oh, so happy!

Sweetie was uber excited for her brother's birthday that she'd wrapped up a present for him weeks before. She's big on wrapping and loves to help me wrap anything, including leftovers. In fact, she now asks why her good girl treats aren't wrapped when she earns one for doing something special at home or at school.
She's become somewhat of a wrapping snob, actually.

So when she heard his birthday was coming up and I saw her wrapping this present for "brother" I wasn't surprised. I did have to contain my laughter when she chose one of her favorite coloring books (all good'n used up, colored in and tattered) and wrapped it all by herself; even putting a recycled card on top that I had stashed for our arts and crafts. I was cracking up wondering how he was going to recieve this, uh, unique gift as I watched her hide it in her closet.

Then she told Nana as the birthday neared, that she wanted to wrap something else for him. My mother tells me that the contents of the second gift and all the wrapping with lots of "sticky tape" as she calls it....was again done all on her own.

I was so intrigued when I saw her stashing it with the other one but she refused to tell me what was inside and each day she checked on them in her hiding place waiting for the celebration day.

I have to hand it to WonderBoy...he feigned complete and utter excitement when she handed him her special treasures (the used coloring book and a dollar bill). It just melted my heart. She was so proud.

Unbeknownst to him he was soon to be rewarded for his efforts when he finally opened the last gift...a special one from JR and me.

There was no need for him to feign excitement at all when he read what his gift was...because there's one place in the world that the Boy Wonder loves more than any other......and it was his wish to go there again this year.

Bet you know how this story ends...our young Prince got his wish!

We're headed out of the country in a few weeks to celebrate his 12th birthday (along with another special occasion) on our favorite little paradise where sand, surf, sun and scrumptous food and drinks await!

He's been walking on air since!
We all have.

Easter 2011

2011-05-14T20:01:00.004-04:00

Black & White Wednesday: Charmer

2011-05-11T09:21:00.014-04:00

This is just ONE shot of so many really fabulous ones that capture the essence of my WonderBoy.

He agreed to be my muse a few weeks ago in honor of his 12th birthday.

It seems futile for me to try to explain how quickly he is growing so I'll just have to show you.I hope to have the rest of the photos up here later in the week.

It's Black and White Wednesday!

To see some inspiring images from some fantastic photographers, click on over to The Long Road to China

Dream

2011-05-10T06:05:00.005-04:00

Dream, My Darling......and I will be right here when you awaken.

Don't mind me if I get nothing done and just sit here and stare
because my whole life I wished for you and from the moment you joined me here in my life, I have found it impossible to leave your side.

You are today and always...my precious baby girl.

Thankful Thursday: Papa's Got His Groove Back

2011-05-05T11:37:00.005-04:00

And the Boy Wonder can't even contain himself...
he's giddy like a schoolgirl that his favorite playmate is back in action!

I have to admit, so is Mama!

Thank each and every one of you for your prayers and heartfelt wishes for JR's recovery.

He's on the mend bigtime now, and we are so grateful!

*************

Girls Rule!

2011-05-01T21:35:00.002-04:00

All Aboard!

2011-04-20T21:20:00.000-04:00

My Daughter, My Sunshine

2011-04-18T06:04:00.007-04:00

A daughter is a day brightener and a heart warmer.

~Author Unknown

(...and yes, that's WonderBoy's Kiddie in her little loving hands...he was long gone on the school bus and didn't know she had him....SHHHHHH!)

Piggy Paint

2011-04-14T07:03:00.005-04:00

Sweetie was born in September 2007, the Year of the Pig.

I'm not sure if its that knowledge or just coincidence but for the last few years, both she and I seem to gravitate toward anything with a cute pig on it. Of course she's head over heels for Olivia the Pig and any related paraphernalia (and, truth be told, I've got a Mom Crush on Olivia the Pig too!)

Up until very recently, Sweetie never in her life had her nails painted.

In addition to being concerned about the chemicals and formaldehyde in nail polish on my little angel's fingernails; I really don't enjoy the sight of chipped nail polish on anyone, young or old. After many misspent years in my 20's abusing my own nails with glue, powder, gels, etc. making me the envy of even the proudest of Jersey Girls; today I rarely even paint clear polish on my own nails.

So when Sweetie finally asked me for nail polish, I had to come up with something and, coincidentally for sure, it involved a Pig!

Of course, we had to get it!

Piggy Paint is a great non-toxic, low odor way to share some special time with my favorite girl...

and when that first chip appears...well, out comes the Piggy Paint Remover to the rescue.

Both mother and daughter are in Pig Heaven!

Faux Sushi

2011-04-12T06:32:00.003-04:00

JR and I love sushi. The kids are big fans too.

We hit our favorite sushi haunt so regularly that they know us by name and our littles spend more time with the owner who fawns all over them than they do with us (great little perk!)

We order the same thing for the kids every time...a Bento box to share and two japanese sodas.

JR and I like to try new things and, for the most part, we love it all.

WonderBoy is a creature of habit and rarely veers off the beaten path when it comes to edible delights but Sweetie is another story.

She'll try anything once.

Of course, she wants to partake in our sushi since it always looks so perfectly gorgeous.

I still don't allow her to eat raw fish because of her age and, well, I'm a worrier.

So unless its California Roll or something thoroughly cooked like Smoked Eel or Spider Roll she's out of luck and I shoo her away from my plate.

In outlining my reasons for denying her I explained that most sushi is raw fish.

I didn't think it dawned on her what that really meant before but it did seem to sink in the other night after our discussion.

Actually, I'm pretty sure that she got the message loud and clear.

I was working at my desk on Sunday when she called me to the table for lunch (after we had a just eaten an hour before).

She said she made me sushi.

Indeed, she did.

(I caught her seconds before the entire teetering bottle of soy sauce perched on the couch spilled all over it and the living room rug)

Opening Day

2011-04-11T15:19:00.018-04:00

This Saturday WonderBoy kicked off baseball season.

He marched with his team in the Opening Day Parade, then posed for team pictures followed by their very first victory of the season on the field that afternoon.

You'd think that would be the highlight of his weekend, right?

Though it was exciting for him, the true highlight was when I surprised him by showing up for his game with his two best friends, (The Sweet Sisters) along with his own little sister, to cheer him on...and, of course, our celebratory trip to Rita's after the game!

It's Offical...PLAY BALL!

Black & White Wednesday: JR, An Update

2011-04-06T09:24:00.019-04:00

It's been a long, hard road for JR since his cornea transplant on February 10th...and the ensuing mega-infection that took hold and has been JR's constant companion for the past month.

He has been so strong through it all; never complaining.

But it has really beaten him down.

Anyone who knows my man knows that this is not him.

But it is, right now.

I sure do miss THIS guy.

In fact, we all do.

This experience is teaching our children (and me) all about patience and compassion for one another.

JR is teaching us all about strength and perseverence.

We are continuing his course of daily appointments and treatment and have sought a second opinion, which concurred with the first. They tell us that the infection is clearing very slowly and as much as wish I could speed things along, it is the passage of time that will ultimately close this chapter.

I cannot thank so many of you enough for all the well wishes and thoughtfulness you've shown JR and our family over this rough patch.

Your thoughts and prayers have meant so much to all of us.

Our sorrows and wounds are healed only when we touch them with compassion. - Buddha

*********

It's Black and White Wednesday!

To see some wonderful images from some fantastic photographers, click on over to

The Long Road to China

A Modern Day Cinderella Story: Special Photo Slideshow

2011-04-03T22:06:00.023-04:00

I took these photos of my Sweetie back at the end of May 2010 while we waited for a performance of my niece's Cinderella themed Girls' Show to begin.

The gym was hot and crammed with people.

Sweetie was the Black Team's mascot in her Cinderella costume...however, she wasn't having ANY of it. So I took her outside to run off a little of her 2 year old energy.

Little did I know I would get some of the most favorite photos of my daughter that I've ever taken. They are my favorites because they truly show off the electricity of her personality and her iron will determination.

She wanted to get on that football field so badly and she not only wouldn't take no for an answer and found her way in; but she discovered a football buried beneath the bleachers....and, well, as they say, the rest is history.

I hope you enjoy this special slideshow that I only JUST put together after all these months (time is always at such a premium 'round these parts and I have decided to put blogging down on the priority list and living life right up top!).

Whenever I look at these photos I see her strength, beauty and the world of possibility that is open to her as a woman born today. I am so grateful to be her mother and to watch her evolve into the person she is meant to be. I strive to teach my daughter that she is all she will ever need and to always seek to improve the fine art of embracing and loving every facet of herself.

There is no doubt she will once day find her Prince Charming...but I'm confident that by the time he shows up, she'll have long realized that she wants him and doesn't need him.

CLICK HERE to view the slideshow.

I'm hitchin' my wagon to Stefanie's Sunday Snapshot....she's a girl with LOTS more adorable excuses not to find the time to blog than I have...and who somehow, manages to do it all!

Click around to my fellow Linky Linkers over there and see a slice of life from every corner of the world!

Stripes

2011-03-30T01:17:00.001-04:00

Color My World

2011-03-29T11:05:00.004-04:00

Coloring outside the lines is a fine art. ~Kim Nance

March Madness: Snow!!

2011-03-25T08:53:00.005-04:00

After a glorious weekend of sunshine and near balmy temperatures we were hit with yet another taste of winter....

SNOW at the end of March!

When my little Sweetie saw the snow as we walked out the door she was absolutely amazed.

Because of the snow?

Well, kinda....but she seemed a bit more over the top than a blast of snow might warrant (especially since she's seen it so much this winter).

It wasn't long before I found out exactly why....

She quickly squealed with delight...SANTA'S coming!

I spent the entire ride to school managing her expectations

for the Easter Bunny and not the Big Man!

Spring is coming.....I just know it!

Black and White Wednesday: Couples Weekend in NYC

2011-03-23T10:16:00.022-04:00

These two Texan love birds flew into town to celebrate

a long St. Patrick's Day weekend in New York City.

On Friday night, JR* and I met Marla and Derek smack dab in the middle of Times Square.

We took them for a whirlwind NYC tour though the City on our way downtown

for a wonderful evening of tapas, sangria and lots of laughter.

There were only two things missing that night...

and luckily they showed up on Saturday afternoon!

These two couples share a very special bond of friendship.

Not only do they have a slew of gorgeous kids between them;

one child in particular, Baby Reagan, prompted Marla to leave her 4 children (and her hunky husband)

for 2 whole weeks to travel across the world with Lisa to China to bring Lisa's daughter home!

JR and I have been fortunate to spent lots of time with Lisa, Pat and even with Marla
but this was the first time we met Derek in the flesh.

(and the first time Pat and Lisa met him too!)

Take if from me....the man did NOT disappoint!

Oh what fun we had together.

The weather was unseasonably gorgeous making it a great day to just walk around and explore.

Watching Perfect Pat, Dynamite Derek and my own Hot Colombian (HC as Marla has dubbed him) together had us scratching our heads wondering if perhaps they were long lost frat brothers.

(Cherries anyone?)

The playful, easy way they interacted seemed as if they'd known one another for years.
There's no question our "boys" could get in quite a bit of trouble together.

I hope they don't decide to do a guy's weekend 'cause I don't think we'll be able to afford the bail!

We ate and drank ourselves silly (not necessarily in that order)

and though there's no doubt we all adore our children;

I truly don't remember us speaking about the kids at all.

We had so much fun together as couples....just what the doctor ordered for all of us.

And, if you need proof of that...it is evidenced by the fact that even Lisa barely took out her camera (a real first!) and told us to put ours away!

(Yeah, lucky for YOU I didn't listen!)

Our sweet friends from Texas and Pennsylvania are back home but we will remember this weekend as the very special one it was....until the next time!

It's Black and White Wednesday!

To see more of our NYC weekend and some wonderful images from

so many fantastic photographers,

click on over to

The Long Road to China

*Special shout out to JR for being such a good sport and joining us both nights despite the issues he's had with his eye this past month. He told me he wouldn't have missed it for anything!

My Sweet Pirate

2011-03-17T12:38:00.009-04:00

This is the face of my Sweet Pirate.

I'd be fine if I knew that he was sportin' this pirate patch as part of a Halloween costume.

But, he's not.

Unfortunately JR developed a very, very bad infection in the eye that underwent a cornea transplant just 5 weeks ago. This is rare, according to the doctor, but not unheard of. If left unresolved it could lead to permanent loss of vision. It is very complicated and he is undergoing lots of antibiotics and poking and prodding.

We have been going to the doctor every day for a week (weekends included) to try to get this infection under control. The doctor has told us that this could take many weeks, even months to resolve and, unfortunately, could compromise the success of the corneal transplant. We are hoping and praying for the best.

JR has been such a trooper through it all.

I cannot even tell you how it breaks my heart to see him in any discomfort at all.....and when I look at his beautiful eyes I just know that somehow, some way, this is all going to get better.

**********

Open Sesame

2011-03-14T20:28:00.009-04:00

I finally got an iPhone for my birthday last month after years of waiting.

I really love it but my little Sweetie is absolutely addicted to all the great preschool games

I downloaded for her.

The problem is, she won't let me anywhere near it when she's around.

So I had to get tough and put a password on it.

When there's about 10 seconds of inactivity, the phone requires a password to unlock.

It definitely set the ground rules and she quickly understood that my allowing her to use

my iPhone is a privilege and its not one of her toys.

The other day I allowed her play with it as I was getting us ready for school and work.

When I left the room she must have become distracted for a minute and put the phone down.

When she went back to it; it was locked.
She came to the door of my room and, thinking nothing of it,

she said, "Mom, I need the password."

I told her that the whole point of a password is that its a secret and

I couldn't divulge it to her.

She was not at all happy about it and was determined to get her way.

She was not taking no for an answer.

She left my room and laid on her bed with the locked phone in hand.

I could hear her talking...at first very quietly, then it grew progressively louder.

When I peeked my head around the corner toward her room to hear what she was saying,

I saw her staring intently at the phone....that's when I finally made it out.....

Open Sesame, OPEN Sesame, OPEN SESAME!!!!!

*See those cute little bumblebee boots?

They have a matching umbrella and raincoat that all belonged to WonderBoy almost 10 years ago.

I always knew one day I'd have another sweetheart and just couldn't part with them!

************

Black & White Wednesday: Elegant Young Lady

2011-03-09T00:41:00.016-05:00

In December I had the privilege of meeting and photographing this very elegant young lady.

Her mom called and asked if I'd take some photos of her daughter to surprise her grandmother for the holidays.

Apparently, the only thing on Grandma's Christmas List was photos of her grands.

Well, as the story goes, Grandma was in tears when she saw these images of her stunning granddaughter.

Actually so was her mother and, I have to admit, I too, got a bit choked up when I saw them.

(I think she looks like Ingrid Bergman in the above photo......she's got real STAR quality!)

She has a classic timelessness that makes me think she could have lived in any era from the 1900's to present day.

Like a Princess in a fairy tale...that alabaster skin, those sparkling eyes;

she looks downright REGAL!

Oh, and this stunning girl...is only TWELVE years old!

Thank you sweet girl for letting me capture the beauty that lies within you!

*********

It's Black and White Wednesday!

To see some wonderful images from some fantastic photographers, click on over to

The Long Road to China

Coming out of Hibernation

2011-03-07T19:19:00.031-05:00

It's been a LONG Winter 'round these parts.

It seemed to roll in rather innocuously, December came, as usual, with the requisite scurrying and planning for the holidays. We had lots of excitement at Christmas when one of our all-time favorite people arrived from Europe for two weeks to celebrate the holidays with us "American Style."

Christmas and New Year flew by in a blur though I have so many wonderful memories of this Christmas in the photos I took. I will be posting them here soon so if the thought of seeing Christmas pictures in March makes you weak in the knees......sheild your eyes!

I promised myself that I will get every stinkin' photo I wanted to post up on this blog by hook or by crook.....and, I am sorry to say, that includes some from last year that even go further back than Christmas (ahem...way further back!).

After all...its the finished product that I'm in it for here...a permanent memory that I (and my family) can go back and be reminded that living is in the every day...the little things that really are the big things and always remember just how wonderful life is and how blessed we truly are.

So without further ado...my master plan is to bring you up to speed with the current state of affairs in Ditaville, get back into a regular posting schedule (which I love to do and have missed terribly for a few months now) and along the way go back and sprinkle in the posts that have been keeping me up nights for about the past 9 months.

AND, on the subject of sleep, I have learned that sleep should NEVER be underrated.

Take it from someone who believed it was unimportant until it all caught up to me...

remember that when you wonder where I've been for months......I've been HIBERNATING!

January ReCap:
I don't remember much in January but I am sure I did lots.

I am pleading the 5th on January right now though

I do reserve the right to revisit my recollection any time I please.

February ReCap:
I wish I could forget lots of things that happened in February. Don't get me wrong...some good happened in February but since two of the Darlings were out of commission (yeah, that's 50% of us if you didn't do the math) for a bit in February I can't count February as a stellar month in 2011.

That's just a fact.

In mid-February, my sweet JR underwent cornea transplant surgery to replace his own cornea which had been severely damaged in an eye surgery he had in the 90's. He was amazing throughout the surgery (much braver than I would ever have been!). I was a basket case pretty much when I even thought of it

(Note to Self: do not watch cornea transplant surgery on you tube the evening before you bring husband for his surgery).

I remember sitting in the waiting room the day of his surgery and I noticed a guy get off the elevator with his lunch in a Coleman mini-cooler. A little while later another guy came with a cooler too and I thought to myself, wow, those guys eat a lot for lunch. It wasn't until the 3rd guy stepped out of the elevator with a cooler that I figured it out (remember, I told you sleep should not be underrated...I still hadn't caught up at that point). I realized how lucky we were to have been the recipients of generous strangers who selflessly donated their organs for others. JR and I have been registered organ donors for more than 15 years. I used to think of our promise to donate in a vaccuum. However, watching the progression from donation-to hand-to hand-to surgeons hand-to miraclously giving the gift of sight to another; to us, made me so grateful to be part of something so very special.

JR had a rough few days when his eye pressure rose and he got sick from the anesthesia at the same time. The perfect storm of those two factors caused some of the sutures around the new cornea to rupture and they had to be re-stitched.

After those difficult few days he was much better.

Here are some pictures of JR a few days post op.

The stitches he has around the iris where the cornea was placed are clear but can be seen when the light hits them. They are tailored perfection. I will get a nice shot of that and post it one day...amazing.

I cannot imagine the skill of a surgeon who can do perform such an operation. The sutures will stay in place for one year and then be removed believe it or not.

JR is not be able to lift anything over 15 lbs for another 2 months (therefore lifting me is OUT!) but other than that he has few restrictions.

His sight is improving every day and we are so incredibly grateful!

We all had off for Presidents' Day weekend and spent a wonderful 3 days together.

Scratch that...let's say a wonderful 2.75 days together.

The last .25, well, not so wonderful but we were all together, thankfully.

My Sweetie is true to her moniker most of the time but when the moment strikes, this gal is as rambunctious as they come. She makes her brother look like an angel (...almost!!) She loves to cut up with him and the day is few and far between when she doesn't get slowed down by the speed bumps in a Toddler's World: skinned knees, a bump on the head, a bruise on the arm, you name it.

After all, it's not easy for a 3 year old little girl to keep up with an almost 12 year old boy who is growing in epic proportions.

WonderBoy is 134lbs now with a size 11.5 MEN'S shoe (he's got big paws!)

Sweetie is 34lbs soaking wet....my little delicate flower with the iron will (and roar) of a Grizzly when she 'wrassles' with her Bro.

Although intellect is on her side; physics are not.

However, that doesn't change the fact that there's lots of horsing around here between the two, like most siblings. On this particular Monday evening, WonderBoy was not in the mood to have his baby sister choking him at his neck from behind as he sat on the floor playing his video game. He told her to get off, as did I, and then he moved sharply to the right just at the exact moment that Sweetie moved left and simultaneously let go of his neck. She tumbled off (only about a foot since he was on the floor and she was standing behind him with her arms around his neck) after she lost her balance.

She landed squarely with her head on the drawer pull of the dresser situated right next to them.

Yep, metal drawer pulls....

take a tip from me...they should never come in contact with one's forehead...it ain't pretty.

As those of you who know us KNOW....we've been down the road of forehead incidents with Sweetie before back in June of 2009. She was only 21 months old when Incident #1 occurred.

Click HERE to see that post.

(beware it includes a gory before photo taken with my cell phone)

Ironically, I had just mentioned to JR that very weekend how fantastic her forehead had healed in the year and a half or so since she injured it. I wish I never opened my big mouth.

Here is a Before and After of Incident #1....40 stitches inside and out.

Miraculous result if I do say so myself:

and here is a Before and Before photo of Incident #2

(unfortunately the After will have to wait another 18 months!)
Voila......25 stitches inside and out.

I've said it before and I say it again...with complete first hand knowledge.....

Better Living Through Plastic!

This plastic surgeon may have even been better than the last one.

Sweetie had her sutures removed a week ago yesterday and I cannot believe how well she is healing after only two short weeks.

The plastic surgeon who did the work this time credits the fact that Sweetie's first injury healed so well with our diligence (read: fanaticism) in aftercare.

I massaged the area every single night to avoid adhesions and the area NEVER saw the light of day for nearly a year. Sunlight (or any UV Rays even on rainy days, for that matter) is the kiss of death to a great healing result. I researched it and made a pact with JR that we were going to do everything we could to try to restore our daughter's beautiful skin to as natural a state as possible.

Sweetie was the undisputed Miss Northeast Toddler BandAid Princess.

A glance back at this blog from July 2009 on bears that out.

And so...(insert applause here and raise curtain...)

I give you.......the Return of the Adventures of Bandaid Girl!
We're stocked up (and were the very lucky recipents of BandAid love from two of our Besties!) and ready to rumble.

We are so grateful that our daughter's eye was not involved in either incident and pray we will never have to go to the hospital again for either of our children.

And so, there you have it...the NOT so good part of February.

Stay tuned for the good part in the next installment of As Dita's World Turns.

**********

*Oh, and did I mention....its GREAT to be back! *

Happy Valentine's Day

2011-02-14T00:02:00.000-05:00

Smile

2011-01-27T00:01:00.004-05:00

Black & White Wednesday: Cousins

2011-01-26T00:07:00.014-05:00

TigerLily and WonderBoy

It's Black and White Wednesday!
To see some really great images from some very cool photographers,

click on over to

The Long Road to China

Black and White Wednesday: Sweet Sisters Growing Up

2011-01-19T00:48:00.028-05:00

Do you recognize this beauty?

Look closely...this gorgeous blonde is the younger half of the Sweet Sisters dynamic duo that live across the street from us.

WonderBoy struck gold when we moved in here 7 years ago.

(And he knows it!)

Maybe you'll remember them from this post or this one.

Here's Blondie with her big sis...

whose legs, by the way, have grown so long this year

they'd make a Victoria's Secr*t model jealous!

And those "baby browns"...I'm sure they're breaking hearts daily in her 7th grade classroom!

I don't know who loved playing dress up more, the girls or their mom and me.

I loved capturing a little vintage look for these shots.

I can just see the boys in the 5th grade knocking each other down

to get the seat that stares at this smile all day!

Even the Boy Wonder couldn't resist a little old time cameo between his two "bestest" girls!

It's Black and White Wednesday!

To see some fantabulous images from some very cool photographers,

click on over to

The Long Road to China

Black and White Wednesday: My Christmas Wish

2010-12-29T00:57:00.010-05:00

Two Extraordinary Children

make for one VERY happy (and fortunate) Mama!

Yep...my Christmas Wish came true...

I woke up on Christmas morning and there,

right under my Christmas tree...

sat those two smiling sweethearts!

There is no greater gift!

It's Black and White Wednesday!

To see some superdeduper images from some very cool mamas,

click on over to

The Long Road to China

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-25T22:35:00.006-05:00

Make a Wish!

"Santa is that YOU?"

Our Little Sentinel

2010-12-14T23:23:00.015-05:00

She's a formidable taskmaster.
She doesn't miss a trick.

She waits by the door for her father to arrive home; like clockwork.

Although patience is not her strong suit.

She's just learning to count and cannot tell time (she's THREE!)

but she frequently and quite convincingly checks her watch.

Tick Tock, Tick Tock

She has that exasperated look down to a science.

It all adds to the drama....
and what's a girl's day without some drama, after all.

She's got the heart and tenacity of her mother;

the punctuality and sweet disposition of her father.

Just one look at her reminds us every single day

how incredibly fortunate we are to have our sweet little girl.

It's Black and White Wednesday!

To see some fabulous images, click on over to

The Long Road to China

Remember Me?

2010-12-07T00:56:00.017-05:00

I barely do so I imagine I'm hardly a blip on the radar these days!

Things have gotten so hectic here
that blogging has completely fallen by the wayside.

Not that I don't think about it every day.
Not that I haven't written myself at least a dozen lists of photos I've taken,

all with very special stories that I plan to share here.

You have no idea how much I miss visiting the blogs of my friends

that are near and dear to me. (yeah, you all know who you are!)

So, I decided to get out of my work/holiday/real life frenzy; get off my blogger laurels

and do something I've never done before...enter an

I Hearts Faces Photo Challenge

How appropos....this week's theme is Self Portraits!

I've been doing a lot of soul searching lately

(in a good way)

and when I look in the mirror these days I can honestly say

that I'm awfully glad to see this girl looking back at me...

flaws and all...

she's been with me every step of the way so far

and I have to admit...she's kinda growin' on me.

Golden Slumbers

2010-11-30T08:22:00.000-05:00

Maison Malfara

2010-11-17T00:01:00.000-05:00

I'm tellin' ya right off....this is going to be a serious teaser post.

You're not going to be happy.

Heed my warning 'cause I'm not kidding.

Now, don't get me wrong; you're gonna love these pictures of our visit to Quebec to see Wanda and her Lovelies. The problem is, I love these pictures so much and there are more than 500 of them that I took in a little over 2 days. Well, let's just say, the editing, organizing and posting really needed to be done by a team of professionals....not me with JR and the kids at my feet after what now seems like the longest days since its dark when I get home from work. Yes, a team dedicated to photos would be nice.

However, I don't have one...so each one of my photos will be lovingly touched by me...to see if it passes muster for the slideshow I'm making for Wanda.

These are cherished the moments I've been spending going through every picture to remember each unique little detail of Maison Malfara and its very special inhabitants.

To say we had a wonderful time is an understatement.

To say we all had trouble saying good-bye a week ago Saturday,

really doesn't do our trip justice.

Here are a few photos capturing the flavor of our trip...

beware....you are about to enter into the Lovefest Zone...

which spares no adult nor child.

Yep.....you've been warned.

I assure you, though, MANY more wonderful photos of our very special trip are to follow in the next few days so stay tuned!

(oh, and don't bust my chops about Black and White....if you notice, no self respecting member of either family had the nerve NOT to wear black and white the entire weekend at Maison Malfara....so THERE'S your black and white...!)

Thankful Thursday

2010-11-11T13:48:00.001-05:00

Halloween 2010

2010-11-05T02:36:00.000-04:00

Sew Many Things Sew Little Time

2010-11-03T02:05:00.024-04:00

Sometimes we get so bogged down in what we insist

in our own minds must be; that we become prisoners of our own makings

in rigid, regimented black and white worlds with

the only variation being the stages of gray in between.

We fail to see the beauty in the details, the LIFE that is in the colors

that lie upon the spectrum of what we often call

"too much to do" or "overwhelming."

We can map it out, plan and choreograph it...

but in the end, it is the haphazardness of how it actually comes together

that makes the moments unique...

rather than our relying upon expectations, achieving precision and striving for absolutes.

Savor the randomness in the carefree moments that cause you to take pause;

realizing that you are, in very large part, master of your own destiny.

Cherish your unique role in thinking outside the box;

venturing out of your comfort zone as you take chances

that others might not be so willing, apt or able to do.

And revel in the courage you have to live LIFE OUT LOUD...

In TECHNICOLOR, exactly as you were meant to.

Lisa & Reagan are FINALLY home

and it's Black and White Wednesday!

To see some fabulous images, click on over to

The Long Road to China

The Gifts of Forever Family and Forever Friendship

2010-11-01T05:16:00.001-04:00

Two weeks ago Friday, the Darlings and I spent the evening with three very special friends...

Lisa, Pat and Marla.

Lisa and Pat have spent the last 4+ years waiting to hold the daughter from China they dreamed of when they married nearly 6 years ago. During those waiting years, they were blessed with the opportunity to share in the joy of raising their son, Nick, and watching their daughter, Sarah, another very unique miracle in their lives, blossom into a precocious little girl.

As the years passed, they both knew that their family was not complete and never would be until the little girl from China who visited them in their dreams was home safely in their arms.

Now for Marla.

Marla is the stunning Texan from Fort Worth, wife extraordinaire to Derek and mom to 4 J's (Jakob, Jacey, Jaden and Jack) all 11 years old and under. Marla is an amazing woman, wife, daughter, sister, photographer and the most incredibly giving friend one can imagine.

Marla heard that our friend Lisa was going to travel to China alone.

Having been to China twice to bring home her two beautiful Chinese daughters,

Marla just wasn't having it.

Apparently, friends don't let friends go to China without them!

So, she pulled out her Superwoman cape, juggled like no other and put together a calendar that even the Secret Service would envy. With Derek, the ridiculously handsome and very capable right hand man she married, having her back...

she actually jumped on a plane to China with Lisa for 2 weeks.

(yes, 16 hours straight each way!)

I know, kinda makes you wonder if you'd have

the guts and the gumption to do the same, doesn't it?

Selfless generosity!

So, 2 weeks ago, on the eve of these two special girls heading over to China for Operation Reagan, we all gathered along the Hudson River for a bon voyage dinner.

The evening couldn't have been more perfect, unless of course, they had already been and were sitting there with Reagan in their arms across from us.

Here are some shots of that very magical night.

Note the delectable cocktails!

The specatular view!

The emotions really ran high that night with the gravity of what was about to happen to the expectant couple and their family finally hitting each of us.

China was a whirlwind those two weeks for the girls.

They saw and experienced so many new things and chronicled them for us all in true blogger fashion. I (along with so many others) felt like I was experiencing the trip first hand as I'd read through both of their blogs each day. Click here for Lisa's Blog and here for Marla's Blog

(you will not be sorry you visited but you might smack me for getting you addicted!)

The images and sights of China, through their stunning photos

and eloquently written words, really speak for themselves.

The highlight of the journey was, of course, meeting Reagan for the first time.

Lisa has compiled memories and images that will last a lifetime; hers and Reagan's!

This past Friday night, two weeks to the day we saw the girls off,

the Darlings and I had the privilege of being present at the airport

when the girls returned from China...with Reagan at center stage.

There really are no words that can express how much joy we felt being a part

of that very special moment....

when The Long Road to China finally intersected at Happily Ever After.

We are absolutely overjoyed for Lisa, Pat and their beautiful family of 5.
We are so in awe of the gift of themselves that Marla and Derek

so graciously bestowed upon them.

Here's a little sneak peak of that very special day...

JR and I look forward to the memories we will share in friendship

with the broods Furey and Westbrook in the years to come.

Welcome Home Reagan Elizabeth WenYi Furey...we love you!

(Both Lisa and Marla are suffering some serious jetlag...be patient...their posts will be up soon!)

*******

Pumpkin Picking

2010-10-25T23:44:00.012-04:00

Serious

2010-10-23T00:20:00.001-04:00

Yes she is.

She's a BIG Super*Why Fan.

One minute she's watching the show

and the next her little feet are pounding the floor

to her brother's room where she's raiding his drawers for
items for her "get up."

She has me rolling on the floor on a regular basis!

How Much Do You Love Them?

2010-10-21T23:38:00.008-04:00

How much do you love those who love you?
Do you love them enough to make sure you take care of yourself?

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month

For as long as I can remember, I have gone for an annual mammogram.

The uncomfortableness is miniscule in relation to

the peace of mind that comes from having an annual screening.

Do something special for those you love....
love yourself enough to get screened.

Real Life

2010-10-13T01:02:00.001-04:00

I can now say, first hand,

that if you look deep enough into the eyes of the one you love;

allowing the day to day "noise" and fantasies of "perfection" to fall away...

You will remember the very first moment you realized

that you could not move forward without him

and that your life would never be the same.

You realize that he was the missing piece of your perfectly IMPERFECT life

and that he couldn't fix it all

but all of a sudden you were no longer alone...

which makes all the difference

and

then...

well, then....

you just thank your lucky stars!

(**special thanks to the Boy Wonder for taking these great shots

of the two people who love him most in the world....his parents!)

Whooo Hoooo....it's Black and White Wednesday
and the very last Wednesday that

Reagan Elizabeth WenYi Furey

will be separated from her Forever Family!!

It's finally HERE.....the last stop on the

The Long Road to China

Lisa and Marla will be here having dinner with me on Friday

and will be across the world in China scooping Reagan up on Monday morning!!

It's official.....I've begun holding my breath!

Love Notes

2010-10-11T11:43:00.012-04:00

Last week I called JR in the middle of the day to tell him that a big project

I'd been working on for the past several weeks finally paid off.

My region was ranked #1 in the nation and I was very excited.

When I got off the bus from New York City at the Park and Ride lot

and walked to my car,

I noticed something in the door handle.

Upon closer inspection, I realized it was a love note...

written by WonderBoy and the Love Posse.

JR drove the kids to the parking lot that afternoon to search for my car.

They scanned the commuter lot for my car and found it

among the hundreds that are parked there each day (in no particular order!).

Have I mentioned I adore these people?

(and I know I'll remember that note far longer than the #1 rank at work!)

It's the Tender Moments

2010-10-10T23:18:00.010-04:00

The tender moments between these two are the ones

that make all the times I want to pull my hair out....
completely fade away.

Well, for a while anyway.

This is Sweetie, fresh from her slumbers

watching her brother get ready for school.

Here he is....Light of her life (and mine, too!).

She hates when he leaves for school;

especially if she oversleeps and he's gone before she gets up.

That's a free ticket to Meltdown Mania for me.
Front row seat.

She seems to be able to handle his leaving

if she spends a few minutes watching the morning scurry
(translation: my scurry since he is in no particular hurry!)

She reminds him, ever so softly,

that she needs her brotherly mornin' lovin'

before he gets on the school bus.

And he always obliges.

Yep, that's when I just can't help but feel the ends of my mouth curl up.
And my heart swell with pride.

It's the little things that are the biggest things, indeed.

How do I love them? Let me count the ways....

(and yes, that's Kiddie in tow...as usual, only now, he tucks Kiddie in right next to his baby sister when he heads off to school)

Happy 3rd Birthday, Sweetheart!

2010-09-27T00:01:00.007-04:00

What lies behind you and what lies in front of you,

pales in comparison to what lies inside of you.

Ralph Waldo Emerson

Three years ago today when I saw your face for the very first time,

I could hardly believe you were mine.

This morning as I stare at you sleeping next to me,

I am amazed that I feel exactly the same way.

I dreamed about you my whole life and some days

I wondered if you would ever really be more than a dream.

You have made each and every one

of these 1095 days the very best days of my life.

(even the ones when I told you that you drove me crazy!)

You captivate and charm everyone you meet and

although you are so very beautiful;

that physical beauty itself pales in comparison

to the incredible person

I see emerging from within you.

I hope you will one day realize how truly honored I am to be your mother

and to follow you on this incredible journey ahead of you called:

LIFE.

Thank you for making all my dreams come true.

Happy 3rd Birthday, my Darling.

You have my heart.

Mama

(Pictures of the small family celebration we had yesterday soon to follow)

Good for What Ails Me

2010-09-23T00:34:00.003-04:00

I've been putting in lots of extra hours on a project at work.

In fact, I had to go away and leave my babies TWICE for several days

in the last month in connection with work.

Anyone who knows me knows I don't go away without my kids.

I just don't.

It damn near killed me.

JR has really stepped up and been handling all the Daddy AND Mommy duties.

Yeah, I know you noticed but were too cool to call me out on it....

I haven't even had time to update here.

I have hundreds of photos that need editing and several events I hadn't had time to post about.

I will get to them and I have promised myself that I'll post them....

I just need to figure out where I can steal the time from!

All the traveling, commuting, running around, working, mommying, entertaining, etc. have just worn me flat out.

I am definitely burning the candle on both ends.

It's no wonder I woke up this week with a nasty sore throat.

I just don't have TIME to be sick!

JR, WB and Sweetie decided to surprise me with some hot tea

and lots of hugs when I got home from work tonight.

Sweetie insisted on dressing the part and checking my vitals.

She's getting so big.

My little Trio....perfect for what ails me!

Summer Afternoon

2010-09-11T00:13:00.002-04:00

Summer Afternoon . . . Summer Afternoon
the two most beautiful words in the English language.
- Henry James

This favorite little dress of ours is another wonderful creation by ManiMina.

(Yes, I'm addicted.)

Thankful Thursday: Sweet Dreams

2010-09-09T00:32:00.001-04:00

No matter how many years pass

between today

and the day

when you fly off on your own,

my little angel...

this sight of you

has been indelibly etched

in my mind

and on my heart forever.

You will eternally remain,

my very own

precious little girl.

Back to School

2010-09-07T08:26:00.006-04:00

Go Get'em, 6th Grader!

Oh, and don't you worry one iota, Kiddie.

You've made it through another summer.

Your Christopher*Robin will be back home before you know it!

Discovering Beauty

2010-09-05T23:03:00.003-04:00

In summer, the song sings itself.
- William Carlos Williams

Be a gentle friend to trees and they will give you back beauty,
cool and fragrant shade, and many birds, singing.
-Unknown

Delight in the beauty that surrounds you.

Happy Anniversary: 11 Years Together Forever

2010-08-24T01:54:00.017-04:00

Yet another year has passed, my precious Boy Wonder, and after 11 years,

you still hold my hand.

Some days it seems like yesterday when I first held you in my arms

and other days it seems like a lifetime ago.

I marvel at how you drew me to you

and how my love for you

completely changed my life, our lives,

in one single day;

FOREVER.

I am so incredibly blessed to be your mother;

to spend every day with you,

watching you...

remembering our past,

savoring today

and dreaming of our future.

I love you with every single ounce of my heart.

I wouldn't change one second

of the last 11 years we have shared together.

Thank you for being my son.
Happy Anniversary!

Thankful Thursday: The Generosity of Friendship

2010-08-19T10:03:00.028-04:00

I can't tell you how often I stop and think about

how fortunate I am to have such wonderful friends.

Case in point:

A few weeks back when I was lucky enough to be part of Lisa's 1st Photography Workshop ever, I had the opportunity to bunk with an amazing woman I had only hoped of meeting one day,

Wanda from At Last..We Are Family.

She was everything I thought she'd be and so much more.

And I'm here to tell you, she's even more strikingly beautiful in person than she is in pictures...and that's hard to imagine!

Well, not only is she gorgeous, sweet, smart, warm and completely charming...

she is one incredible talent!

In addition to her photography, Wanda is a true artist...a painter, in fact.

Wanda had a very special surprise for me when I finally got the chance to hug her in person.

So special, in fact, that I had to fight the tears back when I saw it.

Not a day goes by that I don't look at this incredible work of art created by

the hands of this very dear friend and realize just how special she is to me.

The lid of this box is not a photograph, though it looks as perfect as one.

It is all hand painted.

Wanda studied a photo from my blog and created this masterpiece.

It takes my breath away.

My heart just skips a beat when I see my Sweetie's eyes staring back at me!

Perfection!

Inside is my daughter's name

along with this beautiful quote.

The detail is simply exquisite.

Wanda also surprised our friend, Lisa

with an equally stunning box all her own.

Wanda, I can never thank you enough for this unforgettable gift

and the richness your friendship brings to me.

I will treasure both for a lifetime.

(To see some of Wanda's gorgeous paintings click HERE)

*****

That evening, as Wanda and I made our way back to our hotel room,

we found on our table a little taste of heaven sitting on a silver tray.

There was a note.

We were like two giddy little school girls devouring our find.

We just couldn't believe the thoughtfulness and generosity of a very special girlfriend

who wasn't able to make the trip.

What can I say about Valerie?

I adore her...

she has a heart of gold, a lightning quick wit and a sense of humor like no other.

She often has me gasping for air from laughing so much.

I tell her regularly that she needs to do stand-up comedy.

She'd sell the place out.

Every.Night.

I truly don't know if I've ever met someone so innately funny as Val.

I'm laughing writing this just thinking of her!

As big as Val's sense of humor is, her heart is 100 times bigger.

Wanda and I immediately huddled around the phone in our hotel room with Val on the line

delighting in our little sweet gift from our ValPal in the Lone Star State.

She was the only thing missing from our perfect weekend.

One day, Valerie...one day soon.

Batten down the hatches!
You are an absolute gem and I am so lucky to have you in my life.

With friends like these...well, with friends like these,
Life is BEAUTIFUL!

Thank you both for the gift of your friendship.

Black and White Wednesday: Growin' Up

2010-08-17T11:29:00.010-04:00

WonderBoy insists on mimicking every teenage boy he runs across.
He bumped into his cousin's prom date the other day and he's been walking and talking just like him...and, oh, that sideways hat!

WonderBoy doesn't realize he doesn't need gimmicks or stuff to maintain his current status of cutest boy on the block...he just has to look inward.

Though not that easy to live with these Tween days...I adore every ounce of him and empathize with the new feelings and emotions that come with growin' up.

It's Black and White Wednesday
To see some fabulous images, click on over to

The Long Road to China

Fun is Fundamental

2010-08-09T00:31:00.009-04:00

On Friday night, the Boy Wonder lost a molar.

I can tell my boy is growing up because I didn't even hear any inklings

of a possible loose tooth that was wiggle worthy enough to actually come out.

Well, out it came with very little fanfare from my little Big Man.

He then began pumping me about the toothfairy and, actually,

with a knowing twinkle in his eye, he gave me his best

"I really do still believe, Mom" look.

He told me that he thought the toothfairy should

leave him BIG money since its a big tooth.

Well, guess what he got.......

We all had a good laugh.

A good laugh, that is, until he told me he wanted to go to the bank

and cash it in for some tens and ones.

That's when I had to have a little chat with him about

how NOT to get your picture on a poster in the post office.

Morning Minx

2010-08-06T00:13:00.001-04:00

My Sweetie Pie insists on preparing a little "appetizer" for herself and her dolly in the mornings while I prepare breakfast for her.

I stopped trying to manage the "crumbing" of her playroom because it's a lost cause.
I just wait until the damage is done and she moves on to the next room

then I dustbust the daylights out of the floor, the couch, the chairs, the stairs, etc.

Apparently when I answered the door for the mailman yesterday morning

she got into her brother's chocolate frosted brownie
(the one he was saving; the one that he moved to the back of the kitchen counter so his father wouldn't eat it)
The only remains of WonderBoy's treasure were those you see on that precious face

and that adorable pajama set from Bali, from the beautiful Swede in my life, Ann-Charlotte.

He wasn't amused when he returned home from camp

and I had to break the news to him.

A hint of a smile never even registered across his face

when I showed him these totally off the Cute-o-Meter photos.

That's okay, I'm still smiling!

Black and White Wednesday: Heartbeat

2010-08-04T00:05:00.002-04:00

When I look into those eyes...

I can actually feel my own heart beat.

and when I see these two together...

I can barely contain myself.

Unconditionally and forever.

Ma raison d'etre.

********

It's Black and White Wednesday
To see some really fantastic images, click on over to my dear friend, Lisa's gorgeous Blog

The Long Road to China

La Dolce Vita

2010-08-03T00:01:00.005-04:00

We were busy this weekend making up for lost time.

I was away from the family last weekend for only the second time EVER.

I was attending

Lisa's Incredible Photography Workshop.

I promise, I'll be posting about that amazing event very, very soon.

(as soon as I can get my photos edited...I am so behind all the other girls!)

So, this weekend there was no shortage of Mama Hoarding.

JR and the kids all took turns being attached to me at the hip.

Mind you, I might moan a good piece however,

I can't say that I don't enjoy all the lovin' they bombarded me with...

even when its hot and sticky here with nearly 100% humidity.

On Saturday, Sweetie had her first ever big girl birthday party to attend

and WonderBoy spent a couple hours with his tutor.

He's been visiting a tutor a few times a week for a month now and

I'm betting on him to be the very first horse out of the gate

when the new school year starts.
Look out 6th grade!

JR and I divided and conquered with the kids' activities in the morning

and the 4 of us met up for lunch at one of our favorite lunch spots.

Then we went on to have some of the best frozen yogurt ever.

I decided that it was time to introduce the kids and JR to one of my secret haunts...

a real old-fashioned candy store.

Sweetie thought she was dreaming when she walked in.

And WonderBoy...well, he couldn't catch his breath.

There, among the shelves were the candies I had told him about from my youth...

Delfa Rolls (I drool just writing that), super huge Pixie Stix, RAZZLES,

Licorice pipes, SenSen, Ice Cubes, TeaBerry, Fruit Stripe gum,

Violets and the enigmatic and oh, so politically incorrect (but , so fun!) candy cigarettes

(all varieties...candy, gum and chocolate),

and so much more.

Well, why talk about it when I can show you...
Welcome to Candy Nirvana.

(at least that's what I call it!)

Here's WonderBoy negotiating with JR regarding the overabundance of

his bag compared to that of his sister's bag.

Gotta give my little lawyer in training credit...

he used a ratio by weight argument; made his point well and won his case.

I'd say that tutoring is paying off in gold (covered bubble gum) nuggets!

The kids had a ball.

(so did their parents!)

As we drove the sugared up littles home,

we marveled at the giant clouds above,

and commented

(so contentedly!)

how gorgeous they were,

whilst downing their earthly cousin...

a massive bag of blue cotton candy...

which was completely devoured by all 4 of us in the car on the 5 minute ride home.

Here's the cull that did make it home

(absent a few hidden treats that Mama quickly secured to the Pirate's Booty bag in her purse for rainy (unruly kid) days.)

Er, uh, ummmm....guess I'll start that diet on Monday.

Some Monday.

The Art of Being A Little Girl

2010-08-02T00:38:00.013-04:00

There is a garden in her eyes, where roses and white lilies flow.
-- Thomas Campion

Little girls, like butterflies, need no excuse.
-- Robert A. Heinlein

When I look at my daughter I see myself...only better.
-- Author Unknown

Grace was in all her steps.

Heaven in her eye.

In every gesture; dignity and love.
-- John Milton

Courage, determination, pride...that's what little girls are made of.
-- Author Unknown

What I wanted most for my daughter was that she be able to soar confidently in her own sky, whatever that may be.
-- Helen Claes

***************

This dress is one of my all-time favorites.

It was designed and handmade by ManiMina.

She also made this fantastic dress that Sweetie and I adored

until we both cried that I couldn't squeeze her into it anymore.

ManiMina's elegant designs and color choices always remind me

of the best in true European fashion.

I'm putty in her hands when I visit because her creations just leave me

weak in the knees.

Case in point, I went over this weekend to grab her link

and I fell for another amazing dress that we had to have

(...and I'm eyeing about 3-4 others! )

Oh, I think I need an intervention.

*******

I'm joining Stefanie this week at one of my favorite blogs, EVER!

Make sure you stop over and visit her and all the Sunday Snapshotters

(and, the as usual, late to the party Monday ones like me, too!)

Click here on her link below!

Thankful Thursday: Working Mom

2010-07-29T11:23:00.005-04:00

After 11+ years of life with children,

leaving my babies each day and going to work never seems to gets any easier.

But I must admit,

it makes the coming home so much sweeter!

Black and White Wednesday: Fan Club

2010-07-28T11:14:00.021-04:00

Last night as we were walking into one of our favorite restaurants
to meet my favorite sister,

I decided to snap some photos of the kids (big surprise, right)

along the beautiful stone entrance wall.

As I was looking through my lens and corralling my kids

I hear this thick, sexy Russian accent say,
"Are you always taking pictures?"

I immediately turned to see where it was coming from
and that's when I saw her...
Dita's Darling's

NUMBER ONE FAN!

I laughed when she put her hand out introducing herself

thinking I wouldn't recognize her.

Her reputation precedes her.

She and my sister worked together for years and are very good friends.

I knew she was a big fan of my blog and I've heard the most amazing stories about this wild, beautiful Russian with a heart of gold

and a personality larger than life.

She came upon my blog last summer and has been an avid reader ever since.

I was so flattered when I spoke with her on the phone several months ago

and she knew every single post; every picture.
She told me she was in love with my kids and, of course, JR.

Well, as luck would have it, we finally met last night in the flesh,

completely by coincidence.

She did not disappoint!
I about fell off my barstool when I said I had to get home to edit for Black and White Wednesday in the morning and she said
"I know....Long Road to China! "
I was hysterical!

Yes, my Number One Fan...today IS Black and White Wednesday
and it's only fitting that the beautiful photos of YOU are front and center for today's post.

I give you the aptly named GG

(aka Gorgeous Grandma, a moniker her grandchildren have given her).

Gorgeous, indeed.
Grandma? I think not.

Let me tell you, she's more like Raquel Welch Eat Your Heart Out!

(here she is with my equally beautiful sister!)

Of course she and JR were instant buddies....

they told me it was the immigrant factor.

I had to pry them apart around 10pm to get the kids home to bed!

GG is a colorful character for sure....right down to her brand of cigarettes and taste in jewelry.

Yes, that diamond ring is as REAL and exquisite as she is!

Raquel Welch ain't got nothin' on you, Girl!

GG, thank you for loving Dita's Darlings as much as you do!
We love you right back!

It's Black and White Wednesday
To see some fabulous images, click on over to

The Long Road to China

Thankful Thursday: Daddy Duty

2010-07-22T09:46:00.007-04:00

This man takes it seriously!

I snapped him here watching the World Cup at our favorite watering hole.
Yep, he's the real deal!

Friendship

2010-07-21T08:24:00.008-04:00

We spent a wonderful afternoon with some very special old friends on Sunday.

There are lots of pictures of our day (as usual) but since I have been posting

at a snail's pace lately and am backed up for what seems like MONTHS...you

probably wouldn't know that!

I just had to join in this Black and White Wednesday

with two of my favorite images of these adorable little ladies.

I just can't get enough of their expressive faces

(not to mention their killer Joan Crawford eyebrows and long eyelashes!)
More to come!

It's Black and White Wednesday
To see some fabulous images, click on over to

The Long Road to China

Serenity

2010-07-14T08:48:00.011-04:00

Not exactly a word you'd use to describe life with a teenage boy!

But to me that's exactly what this shot captured between my best friend

and my godson the other day.

Even if it was just for a moment!
Vee you are an amazing mother and in only a few more years

(and an equal amount of gray hairs!)

these teen years will be well behind you.

Just BREATHE!

It's Black and White Wednesday
To see some fabulous images, click on over to

The Long Road to China

Special Treat

2010-07-13T00:08:00.018-04:00

I'm not a soda drinker.
Never was.
The only time we ever had soda in our house
when I was growing up was for parties.
On my father's to do list before each event

was pick up soda from the local soda vendor.

He'd bring home 2 (sometimes 3) cases from a local mom and pop (punny!) shop

filled with all our favorites:
Kola (with a K), Orange, Birch Beer, Half and Half, Wild Cherry,

Lemon-Lime (it was a green color, not like Sprite or Mountain Don't),

and who could forget Cream!

They were in glass bottles that we'd have to return the following week

under penalty of...well, of something.

And when the party was done...the soda was gone

until the next time.

My mother's no soda mandate from way back actually saved our teeth and
we all know now, proved to be a much healthier approach.

Since I never acquired a taste for soda on a regular basis,

I carry the same mandate in my own house today.

Special Occasion = Soda

Occasion Over= Soda Gone

Surprise, Surprise...WonderBoy pushes the limit on this

almost every time we go grocery shopping.
(He doesn't win but he is a persistent little bugger!)

The other evening while out at our favorite sushi joint,

we had the opportunity to try Japanese Soda.

Lemme tell you, I'm a marketing sucker; hook, line and sinker!

This soda made such an impression I let both kids

have 2 bottles each (EACH!) at dinner.

It wasn't that it tasted so different from most soda I have tried,

its that it was packaged in the coolest way.

It comes in glass bottles and you need to peel the plastic shell from the top of the bottle.
Once you do that, you uncover a plastic lid with a plunger that you punch out for use as a tool.

By doing this, you've exposed the top of the bottle which is plastic and

has a clear round marble in it.
(it kinda looks like a roll-on lip gloss with a ball/marble in the neck that doesn't come out.)

You line up the plunger over the marble and give the plunger a pop with an open hand

and BAM....the "marble" shoots into the soda and

creates carbonation inside the bottle.

At $2.50 a "pop" (excuse the pun) at dinner, I was enthralled

but $10 on 4 sodas hurt my inner Thrify Girl.

Since then, I was on a mission.

On Sunday, WonderBoy, Sweetie and I set off

with two of our best buddies in search of our booty.

BEHOLD.

We found the mother ship of Cool Japanese Sodas (and exploding gum, but that's for another post!)

We bought one in every flavor...actually, we bought MANY in every flavor.
And, at $1.39 each; we're stocked up for the next several special occasions!

(look closely and you'll see the marble just below the neck of the bottle, it can't come out because the top has a smaller diameter)

Now I can't say that it'll give you "wings" but I can say that WonderBoy told us after his special treat he felt like he was on top of the world!

I actually had to number and keep a running tab (sign out list) of these sweet treats

or my little Soda Monster would devour them in a day!

At last count there were 9 left in the garage refrigerator!

If you have the opportunity to try one, don't pass it up.
Marketing Genius and Sugary Yumminess at its finest!

About A Boy

2010-07-11T01:40:00.011-04:00

A shy boy who came to this country when he was more than a decade old,

leaving all he knew behind to follow a dream of a better life.

Hearing the chatter of a language foreign to him;

he worked hard at learning to fit in with his new peers

and was so proud to be called an American.

He excelled in a sport that transcended language and privilege.

Those smoldering blue-green eyes and jet black hair

coupled with his trademark sweet manner worked together famously in ensuring

that the "new kid" would never be without company.

Still, it was a hard road.

A road that took courage, patience, perserverence and character.

The very traits that that beautiful boy still possesses today

in the man he has become.
The traits that make me so proud to be his wife.

Happy Birthday, My Love.
You make it all worthwhile!
Fortysomething never looked so good!

Scenes from Summer: Part II

2010-07-08T00:06:00.003-04:00

After Scenes from Summer: Part I,

I decided I'd continue to chronicle
our summer adventures in a series.

JR and I both work full-time but we always try to spend as much time outdoors with the children after work as we can in the Summer.

Luckily daylight savings time is on our side and it doesn't get dark until almost 9pm.

Perfect time to chase the lightning bugs).

Whenever the weather cooperates we eat outside. I make a point of setting the table and using the good dishes even when its just us because to me, we're just as important as company!

The kids find things to do in the yard and between corralling them and making sure no one gets too riled up (translation: starts crying!)...

JR and I try to enjoy a cocktail or two as we talk about our day.

(It sure comes in handy that I worked throughout college and grad school as a bartender!)

Today the outside temperature actually registered at 104 degrees and in my book,

that calls for a frozen Cue*rvo Gold Margar*ita with Cointre*au and lots of kosher salt.

(and yes, it was as good as it looks!)

Sweetie found an equally yummy little surprise.

Much to her brother's dismay...she insisted upon being the first to pick it and eat it.

Now, if only we can keep the pesky little chipmunks away from the strawberry pot we might be in luck and actually get to enjoy a few more ourselves!

***Go ahead, say it...I know you're thinking it.
I know you noticed how AMAZING my editing skills were in this post?
And I mean, WOWZA!
Totally unlike my usual...well, as you probably figured out by now, I had a "ghost" Photoshopper at the helm of these photos.

My dear (real life) girlfriend, Maddy at The Maddy Chronicles, was kind enough to take my photos to a new level and unleash the power within her upon my VERY grateful images!

Thanks so much, MaddyGirl....you never cease to amaze me.

I love you and its back to Photoshop school for me!

Black & White Wednesday: A Special Bond

2010-07-07T00:06:00.002-04:00

Divine Intervention

enabled these two

to travel through life together

as beloved brother and sister.

There is no greater gift.

Except, perhaps, the one JR and I have been given...

sitting here front and center witnessing every second of it!

It's Black and White Wednesday
To see some fabulous images, click on over to

The Long Road to China

Friends

2010-07-03T23:35:00.003-04:00

I have a friend.
She adores her family.

She shares my love of children.
She has a gift.
She makes beautiful things by hand.

Her gift for making beautiful things has, in large part, helped realize her dream of completing her family, one beautiful member at a time, from different parts of the world.

Their family is not complete, though.
There is one little girl all alone on the other side of the world who is still waiting to come home

to her sisters, her brother and her mommy and daddy.

She doesn't even know that this incredible family of hers is praying

and working so hard together to get her home.
She has no idea how much love they have for her and how her life

will be infintely changed for the better once she is safe in their arms.

I have a friend.
We've never met in person but our hearts have, no doubt, met many times before.

This is her daughter; still so far away.

This is my daughter holding hers in her arms...

and telling her that her Mommy is coming soon to get her.

And with a kiss my Sweetie said...

I love you, little girl, would you be my friend?

No question about that.
One day, Sweetie...when Liliana's home..we will all meet...friends.

Hurry home, Liliana...your family (and your friends) are waiting.

This beautiful beach towel was made with love by Robin at Red Thread Stitches.

It's personalized with my daughter's initial and her name embroidered below in a whimsical orange stitch (which you can't see here). (Please excuse the sunblock smathered all over it!)

She loves it.

I love it...not only because its insanely adorable but because

I know the heart of the woman whose hands made it for us with love.

If you're looking for a unique gift, visit Robin's sewing blog to see all of the gorgeous creations she makes and help bring Liliana home.

Scenes from Summer: Part I

2010-07-02T11:03:00.001-04:00

Black and White Wednesday: My Babies and Me

2010-06-30T00:17:00.016-04:00

These photos were taken 3 weeks ago.

Clearly, they are far from the best in terms of photo quality

(did I mention the blur I was plaqued with with my new lens on our vacation?);

however, they are two of my favorite photos taken to date?

Why?
Because I'm in it with my kids (a complete anomaly)

and all three of us were captured displaying our true personalities.
(Good goin', JR!)

WonderBoy is the intoxicatingly handsome, born charmer workin' it

for whatever he's being promised on the other side of the camera.

(Whatever came after "hold still for just one more picture" )

Sweetie is both curious and careful at the same time;

curious as to what's going on all around her but careful enough to stay close by

in case she needs to avail herself of the big guns.

And me? Well, I'm rarely in front of the camera so these are, indeed, special.

My kids will know that I actually did go on family vacations with them.

More, though, these photos capture the way I feel about these two amazing children...

they're my whole world and there's nothing more important

to me than sharing life together with these two very special little people.

It's Black and White Wednesday
To see some fabulous images, click on over to

The Long Road to China

Croquet Anyone?

2010-06-28T12:18:00.016-04:00

Hmmm, this looks interesting.

The box says:
Croquet is an easy game to play.
At the same time it provides a genteel and competitive pastime.

Lemme get this straight.
I take this heavy wooden mallet and

try to hit this equally heavy mini bowling ball.

Okay, I'll give it the ol' preschool try.

Batter up!

(only you're not supposed to miss...you didn't see that, did you?)

I have been informed that the goal is to gracefully move the ball along.
I ask you...if you want to gracefully move the ball along
why not just pick it up (while wearing a strand of pearls)
and move the ball along!

Sheeessshhh!
Problem solved!

What'll they think of next...doing it while riding a horse?

All Right, Mr. DeMille...

2010-06-24T08:59:00.011-04:00

I'm ready for my close-up.

Life on the Back Lot

It's Black and White Wednesday
To see some fabulous images, click on over to

The Long Road to China

Happy Father's Day

2010-06-20T21:05:00.011-04:00

There are moments that will be etched in my mind forever
as I witness the magic of you with our children.

Thank you for being you.

Happy Father's Day, JR

Paradise Found

2010-06-11T10:24:00.034-04:00

We're still here (thank goodness!) in Paradise celebrating our 4th anniversary.

I've had my share of internet connectivity problems down here but, in truth, JR and the kids are happy to see that Mama took a computer break this week while we are all enjoying our favorite spot.

The weather has been spectacular, the food, drinks, service and sights...stellar... and we can hardly believe how fast the time is going.

I have lots of pictures to share but they'll have to wait until we're home and this beautiful place is safely tucked into our memories...as we plan our next visit.

For now, I'll leave you with some images of our little gang soaking up the sun and sea.

(to all your photog buffs...no Ps or Lr down here, so these are SOTC...it pained me to do it but I did!)

Curiosity

2010-06-03T01:32:00.016-04:00

A good scientist is a person in whom the childhood quality of perennial curiosity lingers on.
Once he gets an answer, he has other questions.
-Frederick Seitz

Curiosity is lying in wait for every secret.
Ralph Waldo Emerson

I think, at a child's birth, if a mother could ask a fairy godmother

to endow it with the most useful gift, that gift should be curiosity.
Eleanor Roosevelt

We keep moving forward, opening new doors, and doing new things,

because we're curious and curiosity keeps leading us down new paths.
Walt Disney

Flowering TigerLily

2010-06-01T23:39:00.025-04:00

My only niece, TigerLily, is going to her senior prom in 2 days

and graduating high school in 2 short weeks.

Where has the time gone, my Little TigerLily?

I will never forget when you fit in the palms of my hands.

Some days it feels like only yesterday when I first learned of you and waited

9 long (LONG) months (less 6 weeks!) for your arrival.

As you stand here ready to achieve yet another wonderful milestone in your

young, beautiful life...I'd like to share something with you

that always makes me reflect on the person I am and the one I strive to be.

Directions For Life
(Author Unknown)

•Give people more than they expect and do it cheerfully.

•Memorize your favorite poem.

•Don't believe all you hear, spend all you have or sleep all you want.

•When you say, "I love you", mean it.

•When you say, "I'm sorry", look the person in the eye.

•Believe in love at first sight.

•Never laugh at anyone's dreams.

•Love deeply and passionately.

You might get hurt but it's the only way to live life completely.

•In disagreements, fight fairly.

•Don't judge people by their relatives.

•Talk slow but think quick.

•When someone asks you a question you don't want to answer,

smile and ask,"Why do you want to know?"

•Remember that great love and great achievements involve great risk.

•Call your mom. (and your aunt!)

•Say "bless you" when you hear someone sneeze.

•Don't let a little dispute injure a great friendship.

•When you realize you've made a mistake, take immediate steps to correct it.

•Marry someone you love to talk to.

As you get older, their conversational skills will be as important as any other.

•Spend some time alone.

•Open your arms to change, but don't let go of your values.

•Remember that silence is sometimes the best answer.

•Read more books and watch less TV.

•Live a good, honorable life.

Then when you get older and think back, you'll get to enjoy it a second time.

•A loving atmosphere in your home is so important.

Do all you can to create a tranquil harmonious home.

•In disagreements with loved ones, deal with the current situation. Don't bring up the past.

•Read between the lines.

•Share your knowledge. It's a way to achieve immortality.

•Be gentle with the earth...and yourself.

•Pray. There's immeasurable power in it.

•Never interrupt when you are being flattered.

•Mind your own business.

•Don't trust someone who doesn't close their eyes when you kiss them.

•Once a year, go someplace you've never been before.

•If you make a lot of money, put it to use helping others while you are living.

That is wealth's greatest satisfaction.

•Remember that not getting what you want is sometimes a stroke of luck.

•Learn the rules, then break some.

•Remember that the best relationship is one where your love for each other

is greater than your need for each other.

•Judge your success by what you had to give up in order to get it.

•Remember that your character is your destiny.

•Approach love and cooking with reckless abandon.

Congratulations on your completion of your high school career, with honors,

and your acceptance to your college of choice.

I am so proud of you.

I never doubted you for a moment...never have and never will.

I look forward to sharing this next chapter with you, and all the chapters to come.

I love you, my Darling...with all my heart.

Ever yours,

*******

It's Black and White Wednesday
To see some gorgeous images that never disappoint....click on over to

The Long Road to China

Spring Beauty

2010-05-26T18:58:00.013-04:00

Dutch tulips from their beds
Flaunted their stately heads.
- James Montgomery, The Adventure of a Star

It's Black and White Wednesday
To see some fabulous images, click on over to

The Long Road to China

Thankful Thursday

2010-05-20T08:47:00.005-04:00

It's the little things...

that mean everything.

Bright Lights, Big City

2010-05-19T00:06:00.019-04:00

Yes, I'm still alive...

...but I guess its no secret that my new job is kicking my butt!

I'm officially one month in and I'm not sure if its the grind of the daily commute,

meeting all the new people and traveling around the City

to different locations throughout the week

or learning all the details of my new role but, I quickly realized

that I'm not quite the spring chicken I once was.

As a matter of fact, I'm dog tired by the end of the day.

The minute I get home I just want to spend every minute with my lovelies and the last thing I feel like doing is hopping on the computer and being away from them.

This is the reason I've been missing around Bloggerville lately...the only reason!
I miss posting on my regular schedule and I sure miss making my stops around to your blogs to say my hellos and check in on all your beautiful pictures and stories.

Out of sight is not out of mind for me when it comes to my blog buddies though,

so just know I am thinking of you and will be catching up as soon

as I can catch my breath!

It's Black and White Wednesday
To see some fabulous images, join in the fun over at

The Long Road to China

Happy 75th Birthday

2010-05-17T12:15:00.001-04:00

To My One and Only

Original Prince Charming!

Daddy, you make life grand!
I love you.

(with all 3 of his beautiful grandchildren)

Happy Mother's Day

2010-05-14T00:55:00.026-04:00

No matter how long I've been a mother,
I still can't grasp that Mother's Day
is a day that is now meant for me too.

Not as long as this lovely lady is around.

To me, Mother's Day will always be the day I celebrate
my very own wonderful mother.
It just isn't about me...it will always belong to her.

JR and I are very fortunate to live so near
and have her play such a huge role in our lives.

My children bask in the glow of their Nana whenever she sees them
(which is practically every day).

The second they see her car pull into the driveway,
they scamper to the front practically clawing at one another
to be the first one she sees when she opens the door.
Sometimes they hide in plain sight and she pretends to look
for them and ask me if I've seen them

for several minutes as they giggle thinking she can't find them.

They soak up her attention, hugs and kisses like little sponges
and search her purse for the goodies that she inevitably brings them.

I love hearing her speak to them from the other room.

She says things that I had almost forgotten she used to say

exactly the same way to me decades ago...

"Hello my little sugar plum!"

When Sweetie comes excitedly running over to kiss me goodbye

as she's off for an adventure with Nana;

I see she is sporting two perfect pigtails in her hair,

with matching bows just as my mother used to do with me so long ago.

As I watch them walk away hand in hand together

I recall with crystal ball clarity the beautiful

childhood memories she made for me.

WonderBoy loves to tattle on me to Nana.
He'll tell her that I may not have made the bed (like she does)
or I didn't put something in its place (like she does)
or that he isn't happy with my choice of dinner for the evening
(since I don't cater to his every whim, like she does).

I can't help but laugh inside as he turns into more

of a little brother to me when the Big Gun arrives.
As he recounts what he percieves to be my (ahem) transgressions...
he wears a sly little smirk on his face that he would never use on me
never, that is, unless my mother is around.
It clearly says that he's not the least bit worried about any consequences
his words may carry since Nana always sides with her only grandson and,
in his words...Nana "trumps" me since she is the Mother of the Mother.

He's got a point, there.
No matter how old I get...she's always my mother and, well, I'm just fine with that!

Mom, thank you for giving me life, for raising me with so much love and attention to detail, for always being there for me, for giving me such a wonderful foundation to build my own family upon and for being such a very special complement to all of our lives.

You are a treasure.

Happy Mother's Day

This day will always be yours!

Special update on this post:

When my mom read it she sent me this reply

Darling Daughter . . . Thank you for the wonderful tribute!
It was worth living 73 years just to hear it! Now I can die peacefully!
P.S. The only reason I make pigtails in my little Sweetie’s hair
is because I never mastered how to braid! Wait! Hold off on that dying bit!
Maybe I could live just a little longer and learn how to braid!
Love, Mother

TomGirls and BFF

2010-05-05T00:02:00.015-04:00

These little ladies had a special afternoon tea a few weeks back

enjoying a little teaser of Spring that graced our area a bit early.

I'll be posting more of their playdate and the very special bond

they share when I have some more time.

However, I just couldn't help but post a sneak peek of these two little "ladies"
who turned into complete little Tom Boys the very first second they got...
Sweetie even sported chocolate slathered across her face

and I, her usually very high stress Mama,

am pleased to report let her wear it all afternoon!

It was one of those perfect days no matter what.

The girls, my own darling girlfriend whom I adore,

the sunshine. Perfect, just perfect.

Look at those gorgeous faces; they remind me of one another.

They're born on the same day...miraculously only a few hours apart.

I can't believe they are already 2 1/2 years old.

These virtual twins make my heart skip a beat

whenever they're together!

And I can't help but smile when I see these two beauties
living in the now...enjoying

every single moment of one another.

They are a living reminder to me never to take for granted

the very special moments I share with my own girlfriends...

Especially you, CT, my sister equine...

there's never enough time when we're together

and the time that passes when we're apart

well, it only makes my heart grow fonder.

Thank you for your very special friendship

and for sharing your beautiful granddaughter with us.

It's Black and White Wednesday
Join in on the fun over at The Long Road to China

WonderBoy's 11th Birthday: Celebrating with Family

2010-04-29T23:09:00.000-04:00