Photo Shoot at MudWorks

     Photography cube, special lighting, tripod and camera were present.  We prepped and cleaned pieces.  We played with light and watched for shadows, glares and reflections.  We almost looked like we knew what we were doing for a bit there...and the pictures are almost as adorable as some of the new pottery!

Young Adult

     I am always fearful of ruining a movie for any of you who just might want to see it.  It means in these posts I usually just say if I liked the movie or not.  This one left me with a little something more though.  The acting was great.  The characters were interesting.  The script was awesome as was the overall vibe.  It was also real. 
     Well, I just wrote a long post and deleted it.  I guess I don't want to ruin it for you after all.   I was also yelled at for telling people about the ending of a different movie so I will have to stay silent on this one as well.  Let's just say I really enjoyed it, highly recommend it and no the dog doesn't die.  ;)

Uplifting...twice

     Post Christmas Blues...ugh...the drop off from the build up can be brutal.  It's even worse when you miss your kiddies and your mother.  So I did a few things that surprised even me.  I don't do shopping.  I especially don't do it to feel better or when it's crazy like the day after Christmas.  Two things got me out and about.  1.  A sale that I heard about at JC Penney that included buy 2 get 2 free bras.  Was way beyond due on this need.  Now don't say I don't share with you.  2.  A visit with my friend, Jenne.  The woman works retail.  The really, really tough kind.  Clothing at the Outlets kind.  She left a hubby and sweet little girl at 5am to tend to the grumpy crowds of returns and sale seekers.  I remember the days well and know how much it hurts.  So as I left the mall I realized I needed to see her...for her as well as for me.  We tend to giggle when we get together and it truly does make me feel better.  We fought our way through food courts and foreigners and found our way back to the break room where we shared a lunch.  We caught up on stories of Christmas and made some plans for the new year that is quickly approaching.  I battled the traffic to get to her but it was well worth it.  Sometimes a girl needs some support and today I got two different types! ;)

Movies on Christmas

     We switched things up a bit this year.  If I've learned one thing in the past twelve months it's the ability to break out of my norms.  So after having ham on Friday and Baked Ziti on Christmas (I've never NOT had ham on Christmas which is a new thing in itself!) we went even more bonkers...and went to the movies.  While the kids were off visiting with family...I realized that all three of us needed a little distraction.  This holiday seemed to be extra tough on us all for different reasons.  So off we went to the 7:50 showing of War Horse.  It was an explosion of images on the big screen.  It was sweet and tender and funny and brave all at the same time.  It also did not make me cry which was something I didn't need to do this evening.  I guess the most exciting part is that 85 year old Dad seemed to really enjoy himself.  I tried today but for the life of me couldn't remember the last time he was in a theater...neither could he....guess it was about time...even if it was ON Christmas Day!!!

In Bed by 10:30 on Christmas Eve

     As a child we went to my aunt's house in Long Island.  It was a drive from the Bronx.  We stayed for a feast fit for royalty, a celebration of family and a trip together to midnight Mass.  Needless to say, it was very late when we got home.  This went on until I was 17.  Then Christmas Eve's turned into days with family, parties and family visits all after working retail until the mall closed down.  This went through the college days.  Then you have children.  After running around on the eve you then have wrapping and assembling.  I believe the record was 5am one year when too many big things needed to be put together.  There was even that year we decided that the midnight Mass was a good idea with a small child.  Nope, that never happened again.  A decade or so ago my cousin and I decided we needed to bring back the tradition of a cousin night.  We would take the kids to New Jersey  where Santa would deliver cookies to them and we would watch the Norad Santa Tracker together.  As we watched our children play it was a feeling of days gone by.  Meals were complicated some years and take-out some others but we weren't there for the food...we were there for the company.  After a night we didn't want to end and a drive home...we would arrive on the late side yet again.  The last few years brought a new batch of reasons to stay up late.
     Dinner was early tonight and quick and simple.  Church is out of the way.  I searched for the tubas of Christmas only to find out they happened weeks ago.  To salvage a bit of Christmas magic I did a drive through the neighborhood for some light viewing.  But with sleepy kids and a tired Dad and no Mom to bug me about the wrapping...it is quiet.  Years of too many presents to fit under the tree have been replaced with a year of only a few gifts each.  This means it is quick and simple to finish up the wrapping.  So here I am with several new things that fell through for the day when it hit me...just put on those pj's and crawl into bed.  Lights are out.  Children are tucked.  Cookies are set out for Santa.  Carrots and reindeer food have been placed outside.  Presents are placed under the tree.  Spirits are weary and bodies are tired so I will go to bed.  Hey, who knows...maybe just maybe if I'm sleeping when Santa gets here even I'LL get a little something special. 

A Very Mary Christmas

     We thought Santa and the elf on the shelf were clever...well....then there was Mary.  She told the kids that she would be out on Saturday.  I marked my calendars (several of them) with the same information.  This house runs on calendars to get us through the madness.  Last night, after some shopping, we returned back at the house to unload the car and create piles under the tree.  This morning Ethan's little feet ran down the hallway in the traditional search-for-Elliot-the-elf style and a celebration of gifts greeted him.  "Mom got a lot of stuff when she went shopping last night!".  He screamed to his sister.  "No I did NOT!!!!", I yelled back.  This was followed up by guesses that included Santa coming early, Pop Pop and Chuckie and Theresa.  Nope, nope and nope.  He was stumped.  One run down the hallway and two sets of feet later...two children were mystified and throwing out guesses.  I gave hints.  Check the writing....who else could it be...think, think!  Before they knew it, Mary was popping out of the hallway complete with blinking Christmas light necklace and a "ho, ho, ho!".  It was a moment from television.  Christmas numero uno began.  Lots of smiles, excitement, eating and love was had all day and we have our very merry Mary to thank!!! New traditions, some surprises and a little extra planning made for one amazing day!!!

Christmas Shopping with Mary

Every year I have been asked to go shopping with Mary during the holidays.  In between years of retail jobs, babies and life...I haven't been able to.  This year she drove on out and I felt compelled to peruse the aisles of things to ponder.  We hit Target and giggled over everything.  We went to TJ Maxx (the once forbidden place) and scored very nicely.  Shoot, we even zoomed to the mall and hit one store for a key item just as the gates were being lowered.  It was warm out and I finally found the inspiration to go.  We called it a Christmas miracle but I have to admit it was all pure fun!!!

It also led to my next (and very exciting) new thing...

Treat Bags for Ethan's Class

     I have never packed a little treat bag for my kids to give out at school.  First off...if it's THEIR birthday...shouldn't they be GETTING the goodies not giving them out?!?!  That never made sense to me.  I am a great Mom...really I'll tell you straight up.  I'll toot my own horn on that one but it doesn't mean that I don't feel guilt when I'm not an even better mother.  Emily has gone through years of school and has never had the bag of treats to give out.  We have done holiday cards and last year even did some Valentine's crafty things but never the birthday.  Ethan sort of gets the shaft with his birthday being squished into the "most wonderful time of the year" (I hope you sang that part).  Sure, he gets over-the- top parties but this is his first real year of school so I thought we should do it up right.  If I had my way the old school cupcake give-out would happen...but that fun tradition has been swapped out for sealed treats with the first ingredient NOT being sugar.  Ohhhhh, the rules.  So we went with little plastic bags complete with a Star Wars pencil, food themed eraser, Star Wars candy cane, packet of cocoa and a tattoo.  You are now wondering about my random assortment of items.  Well, it's a little bit holiday...little bit birthday...little bit cheapo.  I said I was finally sending a Peck child in with a goodie bag...I didn't say how good they were!

Wash my Face...

     I turned on One Republic's "A Good Life" and washed my face with my brand new bottle of Aveeno Positively Radiant Cleanser.  I treated myself to something that would make the morning start out nicely.  It was a morning that needed a good song and a sweet smelling soap to kick start the day.   I will pull strength from those lyrics when necessary.  I am off the hook for my new thing of the day because today...I need to be.

Gingie Houses at Smithfield

     One kindergarten class + their "buddies" from the forth grade = lots of kids with sticky fingers.  They were each given a milk carton, icing and more candy than I've ever seen outside of watching Willy Wonka.  Each little five year old worked with their partner.  I am lucky that my little one's class got teamed up with my older one's class.  So today I got to watch as both of them made their little houses from graham crackers.  Emily went with the "can't fit enough on here" method and Ethan went with the "quiet minimalist" approach.  I also got to visit with their little pals and be around some awesome volunteer family members and a terrific teacher.  Another little flash of Christmas magic....and to think I thought I had my fill today with Leigh Ann's Christmas tree tank top complete with sparkle. 

Scentsy

     Months ago I started reading an amazing blog.  Every here and again she would mention this thing called "Scentsy" and rave over how much she loved it.  I researched a little bit and thought it was cool but the prices were way out of my current budget.  You really don't realize how you take sweet little things for granted until you no longer can.  Months later and I'm sitting at a PTO meeting and hear the words "fundraiser" and "Scentsy" and immediately my ears perked up.  There are a ton of little ceramic warmers that use a light bulb to heat up a scented wax.  Then there are over sixty scents to choose from.  Oh, the decisions to be made.  I would like to thank those of you who helped me out with the fundraiser by purchasing goodies. 
     I picked up my bag the other day and have left it sitting on the counter waiting.  It would be a reward for accomplishing what I needed to get done today.  I plugged in my little buddy and plopped in my first little square.  It was an inspiration during the to do list of a busy day.  A sweet smell of success if you will...

A Return to the "Norm"

     I remember a few years back thinking that things were too normal and therefore slightly stale.  All of this time later and I am suddenly begging the universe for some "normal"...whatever that might be.  It means making it through the day with nothing crazy happening.
     One year ago on this very day I was told by a doctor that my mother had three days to live.  Today...365 days later...I found the most normal day that I could.  More normal than I've had in a while.  I got up and snuggled with my peeps and pooch.  I got ready for work with a nice sweater and some earrings that haven't been out of my jewelry box since...I don't know when.  I put on my black Dansko shoes and headed out to an eight hour day in retail (first time in five years).  Those shoes go back that far and need to go.   I sold stuff like in the olden days of target charts and holiday music.  I kept busy with many tasks in between customers.  After closing up the store I drove home listening to music way too loud and even stopped to get gas.   I had a nice dinner followed up with some brownies and milk.  I hung out with the kids, tucked them in, had some popcorn and relaxed on a Saturday night.  Now...I will watch Jimmy on SNL because I heart him so and it's what you do on a Saturday night after a week of work...especially when the cool holiday one is on.   Tomorrow I will go to church, take pics of the kids for the annual Christmas photo and maybe even bake some cookies.  I will sort laundry, do some dishes and prep for the big week ahead.  I will make charts and lists and relax a bit somewhere in between.  The norm.  Months ago I remembered praying that regular would return and though some days are harder than others...I finally think we are gettin' pretty close.  So to some, an average day is not such a big deal but today the regular, the simple, the normal is new and very, very welcomed. 

P.S.  Since some of you are going to be irritated by this stretch of a new thing...just think of it this way...since I've just recently signed on for another year of this madness I have plenty of time for the crazy challenges that you are sending me...OH...and I listened to a ton of new music on my Ipod so we're all good! ;)

Ipod Nano

     I had a Mickey Mouse record player when I was a kid.  Mickey's arm held the needle.  I would sit in my basement and listen to the odd records found in cabinets.  In the living room was a big mamajama console piece of furniture.  It took up half of a wall and had a record player with 8 track.  I remember the big silver button that switched songs.  I was young but I loved music.  My family (and their various unconventional ages) introduced me to more types of music than the typical little kid gets to hear.  It started a love of music.  As I grew so did my need for the modern.  The little radio led to the boom box which led to the stereo.  Back then the test for quality was the speed in which the tape deck popped open...the slower the better.  Car radios went from five buttons to fancy digital equalizers found in the beauty of an Alpine.  I balanced my treble and my fade and was sure the boom of the bass was set just right.  There was the walkman, the discman, the cassette, the cd.  What a flurry of change my generation has had the privilege to grow up with.  Then the mp3.  Hmmmm....you mean you can put thousands of songs in a little box?!?  C'mon now.  Years ago I was given my first Ipod.  It was my green brick.  It has been on many a car ride and three mile walk.  It is durable and awesome...but it is also quite heavy and the battery life is short lived.  You mean they make a touch screen magical box that holds songs and is a pedometer and can make you lunch?  Alright, I'm exaggerating...but it's still pretty cool.  Last year for Christmas I was given the new Nano.  It has been sealed up since.  Almost an entire year later I have busted it out of its little box and loaded it up with some music.  I plan on heading to the gym with it quite soon.  In mere minutes it has almost three hundred songs on it...some of which will be listened to on my way to work tomorrow.   I now have a brick for the home dock and a light little power house for exploring the world.  So though I don't want to think about how on earth they get thousands of songs to fit into a little box...I'm pretty darn excited to get to carry them around with me.

Took Kit for MudWorkin'

     Little by little I am given new odds and ends to learn while at work.  Each time I beg, borrow and steal for the tools necessary to do these various tasks.  Today, JoAnn passed on a fresh took kit.  I have my very own needle tool and exacto for those moments in Clayland that need such items.  A little badge of honor in Minionville!

Fresh Frog of Bel Air Nails

     So the Muppets are makin' a comeback.  I'm a huge fan so I am quite happy with this.  Of course I took the kids to see the new movie.  We all need a little rainbow connection in our lives.  Well...OPI the famous makers of nail polish came out with a line dedicated to the Muppets with names like "Warm and Fozzie" and "Gettin' Miss Piggy With It".  Emily and I are now getting our holiday spirit on with a little green bling on our nails in honor of Kermie!

I'm Alright with the Unfinished AND a Big Announcement!

I was asked to be a "Room Parent" again so I had to .....

I found my long lost cousin and sent a long email and waited to hear back from...

At the end of my work day I started to learn the process of making...

I had to pick something up from school and chased people all around the...

I started a game of Words with Friends and never got the "U" I needed for the damn "Q" and...

I had plans for a night with the kids that was bumped for the oodles of homework so...


I started a whole bunch of these types of things today.  Started them all is the key part.  None were completed.  This new thing challenge typically hinges on the things I have DONE...not hope to finish. I looked over at the ball of yarn and knitting needles that have been taunting me for years in a felted bowl that sits by a comfy chair.   I opened the yarn and busted out all of the beginning stitches without so much as a reminding diagram.  I then realized I never used this particular chunky wool because I needed bit fat needles to with it.  So after throwing a few rows on my skinny needles...I abaondoned that project as well.

I started a wool scarf in the hopes of busting it all out in one night but...

So there you have it.  I felt sort of lost most of the day.  My heart was in the right place but life just seemed to get in the way.  I was also running in so many directions that I couldn't just focus on any one new thing at a time.  Or I was depending on someone or something else.  As I just wrote this I had an epiphany.  I have made it through almost an entire year of doing something new every single day.  Maybe some days it was exciting and others it was necessary and still others it was something simple that was in between huge things that I can't even blog about.  The point is I did them.  Daily.  It changes your mind not just your activities.  But like everything else I did not finish today I have been feeling a stirring about something else.  I don't think it's time to finish this quest and if I leave it now it will be in the same pile of old yarn and unfinished projects as the rest of the them.  Do I need to commit to a second year...YEP! I sure as hell have to.  I know me and the things I was fighting before are all waiting for me like germs that have built up an immunity to the antibiotics.  I need to get it ALL out of my system.

So I guess now in a round the corner and down the street sort of way...I am saying that my new thing of the day is to say YES to another year.  Sigh.  Groan.  Do what you must.  Block me as a Facebook pal or "follow" me on my blog...I understand either way. 

Oh and as a holiday gift this year I ask you all for something.  A message with a list of ten new things that you think would be a wonderful challenge to a girl that will have 365 new things to come up with!  Good ones...really good ones!  Thanks for the support and love and ideas!  I now must wrap this up because like everything else started yesterday this post was split into two days and left unfin...

Bit My Lip Something Fierce While Eating a Mallomar

    My new thing fell through.  I'm exhausted from a super duper productive day.  I was looking up the point value for Mallomars and bam!  Ouch!  My lip is swollen and everything. 

     Thank me...y'all know you needed a break after that last one....;)

Blue Christmas without You

     "I'll have a blue new Christmas without you"....played in my head today.  Last year Mom was ill so I did my best to make the house as festive as I could in between trips to the hospital and taking care of the usual crazy life that happens at this time of year.  Cards were left on the table.  Decorations were stranded somewhere in the middle of the transformation.  I was trapped between the worst event of my life and the sweetest day of the year.  My efforts were elsewhere at a hospital where I had to make Christmas still happen for a woman who would be "celebrating" her last one.  She made me promise to have our holiday even if it was five days after she had left us.  My mother always liked to challenge me and this was no exception. 
     A little boy has a birthday days after Christmas.   I still remember the day that I heard the due date and the thoughts that ran through my head.  Do not EVER let this child feel slighted by the shadow of the biggest day of the year.  So each year there is a celebration.  She made me promise that one as well.   No way was she was ruining last year's Star Wars theme...not for her little guy.  I can honestly say most of last year's season of good tidings was a blur for me.  I remember lots of snow.  Lots of rushing.  Lots of tears. 
     Then the floods happened.  The rains came this past year and took the trees and power with them.  My basement and all of its contents, including over forty years of holiday decorations... soaked.  Though bags and bags of many things have made their way to the trash...Christmas has waited for a day I was brave enough to face it.  Yesterday's holiday magic is still holding a spell over me so today was that day.  The artificial trees are destroyed.  Today, we purchased a fir.  It is full of sticky sap and smells of wintry magic.  Most lights were destroyed as well but a few packs of red/green combo lights were safe so for the first time in my entire life the tree is not in all white nor in a magical spectrum of colors.   I have said goodbye to things I have seen each and every year since I am old enough to remember.  An Ipod set to Christmas music kept us company as we dug through boxes and filled up trash bags.  A song came on.  A song that would bring my mother to tears in an instant.  A song that needed to be switched off immediately should she ever be in your midst.  I stood near the tree with the reflex to change it and then realized I no longer had to...only for it TO SWITCH TO THE NEXT SONG on its own.  I paused mid-reach with an ornament...and realized she was with me.  I am sure she is proud that she has passed on the tradition of nagging about ornament placement.  I gave the talk to my daughter just moments before.  She is smiling as I say, "Don't put two snowmen together silly...you have the whole tree!".  
     Life brings changes.  We miss people.  We find people.  We watch our little ones grow too quickly.  We watch our old people as they slip away.  Christmas is a time like no other.  The noise of the world quiets for a bit and we reflect on the lives we have lived and the pathways we have found for our tomorrows.  We smile a little bit bigger.  We cherish a little bit harder.  We forgive  a little bit easier.  We wrap up a year and prepare for the freshness of the upcoming new one.  We remember our childhoods with fond traditional memories and create new ones with the children we are blessed with.  There is a little bit of magic to be had by us all and it comes with the scent of the forest and the twinkles of the stars.  This challenge of the new has brought my biggest obstacle and my biggest success.  My tree is up and it's quite lovely...I think even Mom would approve!
    

Tribute to Coach...Surreal Trip Down Memory Lane

     Yesterday was so big I had to take some time to gather myself to write this post.  So here I am today exhausted from a trip to the past and back again.  Time travel takes a lot out of a person...let me tell ya.  First things first!!!  Cardinal Spellman and all of past volleyball teams gathered together to honor the coaching career and THIRTY years of dedication of a woman by the name of Ms. Faulkner.  I thought just eating at a restaurant I've never been to was going to be my only new thing.  I had no idea.  This group of women shared bottles of wine and stories as we caught up for the first time all together since 1990.  Our little table of seven was only one in a room full of people full of pride and gratitude for a role model, coach, friend, teacher and dean.  Year by year we stood up and told stories of all that she gave to us and brought to us as students, athletes and women.  We ate delicious food and showed pictures of kids, talked about our lives and learned all that can happen in twenty years.  I thought I would enjoy myself...I had no idea how much! They were my girls back then and I have a feeling we will be something completely new to each other now.
     Next it was off to see the famous Pelham Parkway house of crazy Christmas.  You've seen it on those shows that highlight the best of decorating.  It was over the top and slightly disturbing...but a sight to behold indeed!
     Then two adults realized that it hadn't been since 1985 or so since they were in the old church.  So we went to Mass at St. Frances of Rome.  The 5:00 Mass.  Time stood still in the building.  Same banners were hanging.  Same windows and lights.  Same huge pipes over the organ.  Same bells that a certain alter boy used to shake...all still there as if decades hadn't slipped by.  The priest announced a special function being held in the auditorium right after the service.  A priest that taught at my very high school that I had passed earlier in the day. 
     This is when a bit of Christmas magic was sprinkled in the crisp but lovely night air.  We all walked through the doors and walked up the steps to our elementary school.  I thought time had stopped in the church.  I had no idea.  John and I were transformed into the 6th graders that sang in the same metal folding chairs before the piano during the Christmas show.  A tree was up and decorated.  A community event was about to take place.  It welcomed all.  We looked around a room full of people...some of with faces we have known since childhood and marveled at the surreal feeling of the moment.  After eating a collection of traditional food from around the world the lights dimmed for a Christmas story and a sing-along of Silent Night.  I told you there was some Christmas magic.  It all came swirling down around me as if it had waited in the stained glass windows above me for that very moment.  Years and years of patience.  The balcony held old piled up desks and sets from plays held years before.  The curtain hid the stage as it always had.  The same smells.  Sounds.  All there.
     As if it wasn't all enough I looked over and instantly knew a face.  She was older but I don't forget the eyes and smile of a girl I had played with for years.  My neighbor from childhood.  I bolted for her and as I said hello and she realized it was me...a tad few more sprinkles of the holiday dust fell from above.  She no longer lived there but was visiting.  We talked about our families and how we had moved away from the Bronx years ago.  She mentioned that she moved to Pennsylvania...to East Stroudsburg. At this point I could take no more.
     This school that I spent eight years of my childhood has since been closed down.  It sits there in limbo with an occasional student for Catholic education or a church event.  The school is one of my most cherished parts of childhood and until now I had feared to never again get to see the inside of it.  To be able to take my own little children inside to feel it's cozy warmth was bittersweet.  I looked across the table at a girl that was my age in the 4th grade and saw myself.  Where oh where does the time go?
     We took a detour through Manhattan on the way home.  The trip seemed incomplete without a glimpse at the lights and windows that the city makes even more special at this time of year.  As the skyline faded and the stars reappeared on the drive home...I lingered in disbelief of the day. 

    (They have the Christmas Around the World event each holiday season...I'm thinking a little reunion needs to be set up!!!!)

Holiday Party at MudWorks

     There was a juice bar with fresh fruits and an arsenal of vodka flavors.  Genuine moussaka.  A delicious salad.  Amazing baklava.  Shrimp cocktail.  Bread and dipping oil as well as sunflower seed bread sticks fresh from Greece.  Oh, and the deviled eggs....mmmmmm.  We gathered and celebrated MudWorks style...with humor, innuendo and umph.  Cause that's how we are.  We are loud and fun and a tad bit crazy.  I can't believe it's almost a year since I started working there.  I am lucky to be around such quality people!  Happiest of holiday seasons to my work family!!!

Youvaralakia Avgolemono

     How on earth did I go 39 years without eating this soup?!?  Today I sat down to a bowl of mmmmmmmmmmmmmm while at work.  Thanks Stratakos Family for yet another treat for the tummy! 

Donation to the Incarnation Children's Center

I often wish I was wealthy so I could help others.  I often think about how I need to find the time to volunteer.  I'm not saying this because it is PC.  I am saying it because I mean it.  But I am neither wealthy in funds nor in time.  It doesn't mean I don't give when and where I can at any chance I'm given...it just means I hope and want to do more.   Tonight, a strange little moment happened.  I threw out the suggestion of a new thing and it seemed to crash right into another status update about a place my friend volunteers his time.  Another friend was asking people to give a donation for the holidays.  It shed some light on the following...

The Incarnation Children’s Center (ICC) is New York City’s only skilled nursing facility providing specialized care for children and adolescents living with HIV/AIDS.

This is the time of year to be grateful.  As I spend moments tied up in holiday concerts and special events with my children I never forget how lucky I am.  I am thankful for all that they are and all that they will become.  It makes me sad that children ever have to suffer...anywhere for any reason.   The ICC is taking donations, gift cards and even has a shopping list all set up for specific presents that have been requested.  It is one of the countless organizations that need help.  Please, during this special time of year, don't forget to give back...somewhere.  Anywhere.  Thanks Bryan and Colette for being so awesome!

Winter Concert at Smithfield Elementary

     It was the first time I have ever attended one of these at the new school.  I guess last year we just missed the whole thing.  It was a bit nutty in December and this year we had an extra special reason to go...little Emily made her baritone debut.  Baritone.  I know, I know.  When she came home and said she had picked that particular instrument I was a tad confused.  I have now been listening to a daily practice for months but it was all well worth it.  The band was cute...but seriously shoving all proud mama stuff aside...she was really good.  The sound of the tiny tuba is the backbone of the whole song.  But she didn't just make those plain old low sounds...she even had sweet little melodies.  I can brag a bit and say that she is already playing with the older kids and that she did a nice job but more I am just proud of her hard work and enthusiasm.  Pop Pop was super excited as well...even IF she didn't go for the trumpet.  ;)

Take the Children to Meet Master Nam

     I'd be lying if I didn't say that I had a little fantasy about the Karate Kid.  Not Ralph Macchio...don't get nervous.  I thought about how that movie made us all feel as kids.  Sure it had the heroic feel we all seem to desperately seek but there was also a peacefulness in getting the whole picture.  Tonight we entered the inner sanctum.  We have watched through the open doorway while driving by many a time.  I teach my kids about many things...I might even sway them if given the chance.  But this one...all them.  When your child seems genuinely interested in something you let them explore it.  When they both do and it might be something they can bond over while being fit, learning a new discipline and reaching beyond the norm...it's all bonus, bonus, bonus.  We got to watch the end of a private lesson.  A boy had been going for a few weeks.  We watched kicks and hits and form and technique.  Then, as if out of a commercial for karate itself...Master Nam took out a wooden board.  All of our eyes lit up.  The doubtful child said he couldn't do it.  With the type of guidance you see in Oscar winning films...Master Nam took a stance and said that he could.  And he did.  We clapped.  He beamed.  It was a moment that said...YEP, this is right!  Moments later it was just us and he spoke to the kids. He learned their names and ages.  He had Ethan get up and checked his flexibility and strength.  He was impressed.  I have to say I was as well.  Seems there might be something special with this young grasshopper.  After a few private sessions they will be able to join group classes.  We are all very excited.  I had this feeling a few years back when I first spoke to Emily's piano teacher who wanted to meet with her first...and we all know how that turned out.   If they are this excited over the white belt I can't wait to see what's next!

Celebrate Greta's 3rd Birthday

No child has ever grown three years this quickly...and yet there we were singing and watching her blow out three little candles.  Greta is as clever and adorable and as sweet as a child can get.  She was also quite the host and narrator of all things occurring at her little event.  We went fishing, ate some lasagna (some of us baby bird style but I'm not naming names), gulped down some cake and played a bit of jack-in-the-box.  There were also loads and loads of giggles.  Because THAT is how we roll.  Another fun party to celebrate another wonderful milestone.  Happy Birthday to our special little Bean!!!

the ELF on the SHELF

     I had an elf as a kid but I think someone missed the point because it just hung out on a candlestick every holiday season.  This year...one of Santa's helpers...sent our very own elf package.  We named our elf, Elliot.  We read the story and I can't wait to see where the little guy ends up each day!  A little Christmas magic is just what we need right about now!  Hey, Santa's helper...thanks again!!!

Kids Go Shopping

     They have this little event at school for the kids.  They set up a little "store" and the children get to shop for everyone on their list for the holidays.  I jumped at the chance to help out.  A couple years back Emily was sent to school with a list of people and a budget of ten smackers.  She got some hysterically funny items as well as a sparkly little pair of earrings for HERSELF ...and then handed  her Dad a nickel and two pennies and said that she ran out of money.  I still crack up when I think about it.  So I thought maybe I could help some poor Dad somewhere get more than loose change from his kid. 
     Have you ever tried to buy thirteen gifts with a five?  Today, I met the challenge as I escorted the little ones around the room to find just the right items for their beloved friends and family.  Choices were interesting...I'm helpful not a miracle worker.  So here's to hoping that the Dads like those sports pennants and Moms like the lockets and that Auntie Ann is okay with a pen that says "AUNT" because you can only stretch a dollar so far.  Ho, ho, ho! 

Buster Keaton's Sherlock Jr.

     Brilliant.  Absolutely, positively brilliant.

Started Bossypants by Tina Fey

     I'm already intrigued and smiling and I'm only through the intro.  I need some comedy and the lack of television and internet made it quite easy this morning to pick up a book.  Sometimes we just need the push...

Wait for the School Bus

     Today Emily had after school band practice to prepare for her first Winter Concert next week.  There was a special bus running them home after school so I told her to hop on.  She had a great practice and I was there to greet her at the end of the driveway...umbrella in hand.  It had to start pouring...sideways...as soon as I got out there.
     Many of you are wondering how this could be a new thing.  Well it is.  My children have been driven to and from school all of this time.  Schools have either been too close to bother or didn't offer a bus.  I stood there on this rainy, grey day and was grateful that it was raining and not snowing.  It was warm.  But I also thought about how in six minutes we can be to the school and it's simply not worth it for them to ride around on the bus for way longer.  I enjoy the drive home listening to the tennis rally of excitement as they tell me about their day.  I enjoy seeing their little faces light up as they run to the car.  It will go all too quickly and I have to admit picking them up is one of the highlights of my entire day. 
     I also had a bit of a light bulb moment which is kind of ironic this many days into my challenge.  My new might be your everyday.  My old might be your new.  We take many things for granted.  We assume.  We imagine what is simple to us should be simple to all...and it isn't.  It's new.  New can sometimes be uncomfortable or tricky.  It can also be exciting.  It's the judgement that isn't ours to make when it comes to others.  We all have fears and they may vary quite a bit from one to the next.  We should be kind when it comes to those we love and their fears.  We should encourage the new.  Be tender about it.  Did you find a new thing today?  What are you waiting for???

Listen to Owls Have a Conversation

     I can tell when a Northern Flicker is tapping on my house.  I have done the Cornell Bird Count.  I get excited when I see a bird I have never seen before.  I was amazed when I spotted an eagle and still tilt my head at the huge group of turkey vultures if they circle over my yard.  Do I make trips just to bird watch?  No...but I have a feeling when I'm older I might enjoy such a thing while on vacation.  In the meantime, I point out the difference between a  bluebird and a blue jay and hope my kids learn a little somethin'. 
     When I first moved to this house I began to notice animals and birds that you just don't see in town.  I also listened and started to hear calls I hadn't before.  The night I heard the "hoot, hoo, hoo.....hoo...hoot" I was thrilled.  I imagined waiting for a bright full moon night to venture out and spot the creature gazing down upon me from a limb. 
     The lingering effects of this cold/flu that I am battling don't allow for pleasant sleep and tossing and turning seems to come with the package.  But this time I didn't mind.  I heard the owl again...way in the distance as I've heard before.  BUT, then I heard the close one.  So close that my dog also perked up to listen.  It seemed to be in the tree right outside the bedroom.  They were having a discussion I suppose.  What about I can only imagine.  Maybe how unseasonably warm it has been which means the mice are still scurrying about ever so nicely.  I listened for as long as I could until the one must have moved along to another tall tree.  Just a few hours into my new day I had captured a new thing...just as the owl probably captured a snack. 

Gnomeo & Juliet

     Another day of rest means a new movie was in store!  This was an odd little film.  I liked it but am not sure why.  I was also confused about how Elton John was involved in a project like this.  Let's just say though it was a good distraction from fevers and stuffy noses I don't need to own a copy. 

Wii Pictionary with Gramary

     We were dropping like flies with this sickness funk but Mary is a dedicated Granny so she made her way out for a visit anyway.  We kept things low key and relaxed.  She had a little battery charging and we just had a nice rest.  What is fun but still keeps us snuggled on couches?  Wii Pictionary.  We passed our little tablet around and drew our little hearts out.  I somehow always find something that makes Mary even funnier.  This was no exception. 

Hot and Sour Soup

     I cashed in on a sick day and this means take out.  The thought was that the hot and sour soup might open me up a little.  It just burned my raw throat.  Boooooo.  But it made for an easy new thing on a day of rest.

Oysters with Marilyn at a White Thanksgiving

     I have heard about the feast at my nephew and niece's house for years.  But with work, babies, parents, etc...we were never able to accept the invite with a resounding "yes!".  This year was different.  I was so absolutely excited to be a part of it.  The first Thanksgiving without the matriarch of the family is a tricky one and I needed a space for all of us to feel the love that she used to pour onto us for the holiday.  
     Theresa tends to have something in common with me.  We try to do tooooo much at all times.  We end up tired.  This year she broke out of her comfort zone and it was quite the success.  With a room full of misfit toys we put together a bountiful feast.  We came with desserts, breads, side dishes...our specialties and all shared a table for 14.   Of course being Theresa and Chuck this doesn't mean you slack in any way.  The table was suitable for a surprise visit from Martha herself and the amuse bouche, delicious soup and tasty appetizers were Top Chef quality.  As we sat around delicate cheeses and dips...out came a platter of freshly shucked oysters complete with a minuet.  The old me...NO WAY!  Oddly enough, I was JUST chatting with Marilyn about my new thing of the day.  We were discussing how it changes your thinking pattern and breaks you out of your mold.  How it makes each day an exciting adventure.  So when oysters come out...instead of turning up my nose...I grinned.  Only one thing to do!  Marilyn was new to them as well.  So we toasted our shells and down they went.
     The day was wonderful.  Great discussions about everything from Peeps to parent teacher conferences.  Hilarious stories.  Delicious food.  Teamwork in so many ways.  Kindness.  Hugs.  It was a day to be thankful for in a room full of people truly grateful for what we have...despite the challenges, despite the losses, despite the changes.  Smiles on little girls, a food thieving Potato pug, snuggles on laps, a giggling Pop Pop, a quick catch up in a quiet kitchen...that is what we all needed. 
     I am thankful for the day, grateful for the company and blessed to have been with such wonderful people.  Happy Thanksgiving!
    

New Movie Theater

     It was a surreal moment.  I have been going to the same movie theater since 1990.  It was old and nasty and at some point I banned it from my life.  I was tired of sticking to nasty floors and wondering what was on my seat.  I also chose to support the little local theater.  Last night I returned to the big cinema.  It drew me in with its new sound system, big screen and stadium seating...oh, and The Muppets were playing there.  What used to be a few steps from the lobby area to the theater space was now a large hallway full of digital signs and multiple rooms.  It was as if I was in some Alice in Wonderland moment.  The hallway just kept growing.  My little mall has a real theater now....very odd. 
     So the Muppets.  It's been years and I was a huge fan in my youth.  The movie had quite the potential to let me down.  It did not.  It was wonderfully entertaining, sweetly sentimental and just plain old fun.  Though seeing the old crew was like being with old friends...the cameo appearances were a treat in themselves.  It was a nice way to kick off a cherished few days of family and thanks. 

Hang an Art Show at MudWorks

     It has been approximately five years since I've hung a show.  Five years since I've stared at walls and paid attention to light and shadow.  Looked at the pieces and tried to bring something special out of them.  I make sure the broad brush strokes are far enough away to get the image properly.   I'm careful that the dark photograph will be seen in all of its glory.  I pay attention to size and medium and wall space.  I felt a little piece of me light up as I put the puzzle together.  This group show has a wonderful collection of some very talented artists and I was thrilled to highlight their work. 

Philly Steaks

Not feeling so hot + need of new thing = Philly Steaks on Main (To Go)

Three Miles with the New Sneakers

       When you get a 67° day and it's close to Thanksgiving...you are darn grateful for the warmth and  sunshine and you bust out your brand new sneakers!!!

Ornament Painting Event

     Last time we had an event at MudWorks the kids got to create something from clay.  This time they got to play around with the creativity that comes with painting.  Ten ornaments each and a supply of fun colors...and we will have ourselves twenty gorgeous new treats for packages and the tree.  Great way to kick off the holiday season!!!

Misidentified Jeep, Found Coffee Partner

     I had an 8:15am parent teacher conference.  I had a 10am appointment.  By 9:15 I was hungry and feeling the effects of no coffee. 

Set scene:  Dunkin Donuts drive-thru...4th in line.  I see a Jeep.  DWG on the back.  Like a kid who has spotted an ice cream truck I text Leigh Ann. 

"Hey, wanna go inside and eat together?"

I then realize it is NOT her after all.  Respond text goes a little something like this:

"Huh?". 

This made me giggle...and explain further what had happened.  Five minutes later the RIGHT Jeep showed up and I had someone to share my bagel and coffee with.  We fit hours worth of energy into our twenty minute pocket of time.  So to the other Jeep I say thank you because you gave us a nice little treat!

Ingrid Michaelson's Ghost

     I love Ingrid.  I have for years.  I have yet to see her sing on stage but it is one of my goals.  Her songs are clever and I have a soft spot for the combination of her voice and the piano.  She also has quite a strange knack of coming out with music just at the time I can relate to what she is singing about.  This is no exception.  Brand new song from an album I can't wait to hear. 

Ghost

Do you remember the walls fell
Do you remember the sound that the door made
When you closed it at me
Do you know that I went down to the ground
And landed on both my broken hearted knees
I Didn’t even cry
Cause pieces of me had already died

Chorus:
I’m a ghost, haunting these halls
Climbing the walls that I never knew were there
And I’m lost, broken down the middle of my hard heart
I’m broken down the middle of my hard heart
You know you make me a ghost

I’m an invisible disaster
I keep trying to walk on my feet
Don’t find the sound, the ground
It’s like living in a black dream
I keep trying to scream
but my tongue has finally lost its soul
Tried to say goodbye
To the pieces of me that have already died

Chorus:
I’m a ghost, haunting these halls
Climbing the walls that I never knew were there
And I’m lost, broken down the middle of my hard heart
I’m broken down the middle of my hard heart
You know you make me a ghost

Marcel the Shell with Shoes On, Two

     Have you seen Marcel the Shell?!?  If you haven't please do so immediately.  This was a new one for me and it came on a day I needed it the most.  Jenne posted it and Leigh Ann and I giggled our way through it.  Thanks Marcel...I don't know what I would've done without you!!!

White Clay Ornaments

     MudWorks is having another fun family event.  This time we all get to try our hand at the painting part.  MJ and I made some additional ornaments for families to choose from.  White clay is very different from the usual mud brown stuff...it's softer and has a unique texture.  Both of my kids will get their very own set of ornaments to paint.  You'll hear more about them on Saturday...can't give away a new thing. 
     MJ thought it would be funny to make a random cowboy hat because "there are lots of horse people around here".  It struck me funny.  I made an alligator.  We are competing  on which one will be chosen first.  Either way...it made me giggle. 

Puppies for Pop

     My Dad is 85.  My mother has been gone for about eleven months now.  It is showing in places you wouldn't always expect.   I'm not so sure if he is sad, forgetful or old...or maybe a combo deal of the three.  I AM sure that he is not taking proper care of certain things...and now I'm thinking my Mom had something to do with it.  His shoes are a prime example.  His EEE wide Hush Puppies are beyond beat.  They are worn and nasty.  I have hinted.  I have threatened.  I have allowed the dog to steal and chew and hide them.  We have "lost" them a few times.  Does he wear the brand new Reeboks in the closet?  How about the loafers?  Nah....just the scary old velcro numbers.  So tonight I ordered a pair online.  This time instead of the off white old man version...I went with the brown.
     It is an odd feeling to take care of the man that used to guide you.  He taught me how to drive...I now fear his driving.  He taught me how to be thorough...he now does almost nothing.  He taught me how to face life with a giggle...he now scowls too often.   Tonight, I spoke to him as best as could.  Some love.  Some "Hey, what the hell are ya doin'?".  Some inspiration.  He said he's been a little lazy.  My Dad used to build skyscrapers...lazy was not in his vocabulary.  Maybe a little kick in the pants, some daughterly love and a new pair of puppies will put a little pep in his step.  We can hope anyway...

Family Turkey Craft Project

     A giant brown turkey came home with the directions to do anything you want to it...as a family...no coloring.  So after trying out different ideas we went with felt.  The four of us spent quite a few hours today creating our bird.  We traced, cut, glued and designed.  Pop seemed to enjoy it and the kids kept saying how much fun it was.  We all signed the back and Ethan is loving the idea that we can use it as a decoration for years to come.  Gobble, gobble!

New Kicks with Frank

     My last two pairs of sneakers were from the clearance rack at Kohl's and probably go back too many years to mention.  They take a toll on a girlie's feet.  After my little red thermometer reward graph made it to the next line and hit a new target...it was time for the prize!  New sneakers.  A little extra work for a few weeks in a row and a sale at the store and I was set.  Frank gave me the full foot inspection and showed me my best bets.  I have to admit I love my new kicks quite a bit.  Not only are they cute and feel absolutely amazing on my piggies but they are from the sentimental Mizuno company.  I haven't worn that brand since high school when I played on the volleyball court.  I set a goal...I found the means...I sought the help of a pal...and I'm feeling pretty good about all of it.  It's nice to reward a little hard work...now for some bigger plans!!!

Change a Bear Wound Bandage

     This post has been rewritten several times.  It seems on Thursday night my friend, Suzan, defended the life of her beloved dog...and risked her own.  Against.  A. Bear. And her cub.  It was on the news as well as Good Morning America and it has still yet to fully sink in for any of us.  A bear.  She is a brave woman as well as lucky.  She is recovering as is her pooch, Otto...they will both be fine.  I spent some time with her the day after and helped in any way that I could...especially with my little sweeties.  But it still amazes me.  She has a claw marks on her back, staples in her scalp and bandages on both hands.  When one sustains injuries to both hands it is hard to do the simple.  I put on my best nurse hat and helped change one of the dressings.  I am still in awe that the injury was from a BEAR.  Out of respect I was going to skip this post.  I also realize that in comparison to going all tough ass on a bear...simply changing some gauze and some tape is NOTHING...but this was my way of telling Suzan how incredibly amazed and proud I am of her!!!  A hero.  A mom.  An inspiration!!!

Take Time to Read the Letter of a Nine-Year-Old

     I was sitting here thinking about how much I love my kids.  I had just finished a conversation about the safety of children a few minutes before picking them up for school.   The news has the world all buzzing about children and coaches and who is guilty and innocent, etc.  My bottom line is that children need to be protected always.  No matter what.  We headed over to the cool little popcorn shop for a new batch of flavors to snack on while doing homework.  I work with one child while the other practices one of two instruments.  Then they switch.  It gives me the chance to have one on one time with them.  I learn things.  I know where they need help.  In the back of my mind all of the time I worry.  I worry about their safety.  I worry about things that I hear on the news...which is why I avoid the news as much as possible.  I use the term "not on my watch" often to describe the efforts constantly given to protect them.  I know their friends and their parents and try to stay connected whenever possible. 
     You know a relationship is a good one when your nine year old shares things with you.  Today she shared a letter from a friend.  I will now share it with you....

 "Emily I wanted to let you know what I love to do so I made you this list:
  1.  I like fashion
  2.  I like to run around and scream goog! (My word)
  3.  I love to write
  4.  I like to play the flute
  5.  I like cheese!
  6.  I like writing on wipe boards!
  7.  I want to be a fish!
  8.  I think reading class is boring
  9.  I love to dance
10.  I love to sing
11.  I love to read
12.  I like the fantastic feeling you get in your stomach when you go on rollercoasters
13.  I like playing with ribbons
14.  I like playing Mario Kart on Wii
15.  I don't like scissors
16.  I love pajamas
17.  I like playing house and capture the flag
18.  I like beards
19.  I want to learn to write my p's like this...(drew a p)
20.  I secretly think that I'll be famous someday and I come up with pretend interviews in my head all
        day in school. "

She went on to ask my daughter to make a list for her.  I am interested in what she will come up with.  I adore this girl and her family and am thrilled that they are bffs. 
     At the end of the letter I realized that THIS is exactly why we are to protect our children.  All of them.  Every child has a list like this.  They grow up with dreams and passions and excitement.  They deserve to be safe as they pursue them.  I do think this girl will be famous someday....she is pretty darn special.  But whether or not she is...these dreams are still hers. 
     These daily tasks of finding something new are to push me.  They are to remind me of what is right there in front of me.  Inspire me to do more....be more...get more.  They also give my brain, spirit and heart the kind of exercise they need to grow and be better than the day before.   Today I ask you to do something....make a list of the things you liked as a nine year old.  How many of them did you accomplish?  How many were compromised?  How many can you try now because it is never too late?   And please remember that the children of abuse...of any kind...might never get the chance to live out their list with the love of life that they deserve.  They will be plagued by the burdens of abuse....every minute of every day of their lives.  My heart goes out to them and to any of you reading these words. 
     No matter what your childhood...today is the day to make a new list.

Celebrate National Chocolate Cupcake Day

     Every morning Foodimentary tweets me with the National food of the day.  They are often amusing and sometimes even give me snack or meal ideas.  I'll celebrate anything if you give me an excuse.  This morning I was quite excited to see that it was National Chocolate Cupcake Day.  The last time I had my favorite cupcake EVER was back in early September as a birthday treat.  I have to admit I thought about it all day but tried to make the wise (Weight Watcher's member) decision to skip this festive day.  At 5:45pm it hit me...I have been doing so well and these cupcakes are worth every dang point so I will splurge and use up all of my extra points.  I gave Kitchen Chemistry a buzz.  They were closing in fifteen minutes and someone was in the store purchasing my beloved choice of heavenly cake.

SCYMIH  – 7 Chocolates You Meet in Heaven
pronounced “Skimmy”  – Double Chocolate cake, chocolate pudding filling, chocolate butter cream crown filled with ganache, sprinkled with semisweet chips and topped with more chocolate!

Lisa immediately offered to whip some up just for me and even went so far as to say she would wait.  You have never seen a mama and her two kiddos throw on shoes and coats so fast.  We zoomed to town, parked and RAN full speed to make it there.  A plate full of gorgeous and fresh cupcakes awaiting our arrival.  A tall glass of cold milk and a slow and very deliberate style of chewing made the cupcake worth all of the hullabaloo.  I will work with extra diligence for the rest of the week to make up for those 800 points knowing they were worth it!!! Thanks Lisa for helping me to celebrate the day!!!

Glitch

    A new game.  Uh oh.  You have to make cheese, pet pigs, harvest trees and milk butterflies....sheesh.  Eh, it's ok...I worked my butt off today.  Should you join I'll be sure to send you a sammich.  Good luck and don't get addicted...you know who you are.   (I reached level 4 tonight.) Where did the last hour go?

Slept on my Back

     As a child I tucked myself deep into my sheets.  The scary shadows would get me if I wasn't buried under at least one layer of cotton to protect me from the evils of the night.  I was typically on my stomach.   This pattern seemed to last for the rest of my life.  Now, sometimes I do the side-stomach deal with one leg straight out and the other in a bend.  But my face is tucked and my arms are usually twisted up with the pillow.  When you are pregnant they tell you that sleeping on your back is actually dangerous so though it's the only way that would be comfortable when you are larger than life...you shouldn't really do it.  There were lots of years of side sleeping. 
     I am 39 years old.  Between the years of sleeping on my stomach, the warnings about babies and things that go bump in the night that had easier access to my demise should I not be buried....I have never willingly slept on my back.  I was convinced it was impossible.  Lately, I've been waking up in a twist of knots and dead asleep limbs.  Daily.  Last night after flipping one way to alleviate the right arm being painfully numb I turned.  And flipped.  And smashed pillows.  Turned again.  This grown woman could not sleep on her back because she just doesn't do it.  I don't sleep on my back.  Then it hit me.  Just because I have been doing it for all of the years I can remember...doesn't mean I can't claim this whole new position now.  Just because we've always done something one way doesn't mean that we can't do it another way.  Duh. 
     I propped two pillows under my neck and skull.  I found just the right blanket...sheet ratio.  I put my arms all crazy way up over my head and you know what?  I was damn comfortable.  Wow.  I also was not worried about the axe murderer or satanic spirit that could get me in this vulnerable position...I just wanted a good night's sleep.  And I got one. 
     Just because we've always done it one way doesn't mean we can't change.  Pretty big lesson for a seemingly simple new thing....

Nirvana Water

     "Nestled amidst 2,000 acres of untouched wilderness in the majestic Adirondack Mountains is the source that provides Nirvana Natural Spring Water.  This pristine spring water flows to the surface naturally at a constant 42 degrees, attesting to its extremely deep-rooted nature."

(It was on sale for $2.99 a case.)

They can't all be exciting people...they can't all be exciting.  Some days you have to catch up on laundry and food shopping and rest and family time...and then you realize on the way home from the store that sometimes a new thing can be as simple as a delicious bottle of water.  It tastes like the fancy bottled water from an island far away but it's the same price for a case as for one of those bottles.  A whole new week is facing me with a whole new batch of new things awaiting...

Field Trip to Brooklyn with Leigh Ann

     You know those magical days where you feel like you have lived days in just hours?  Yesterday was one of them.  The event started at 2.  We had plenty of time in the Jeep to talk about everything under the sun and we did.  The first stop was in New Jersey to visit with an artist at the Riker Hill Art Park.  After visiting with one...we went on to meet many.  The cast of characters was full and quite interesting.  One artist studio after another our minds were blown by beauty, some crazy and lots of unique.  It put many puzzle pieces together for me of the lives I always hear about at work. 
     Next it was off to Brooklyn.  I got to see real hipsters.  It was fun and funny.  We didn't get to navigate through the streets or check out all of the cool places but we were on a mission. We found the Lovin' Cup as if we were in Alice in Wonderland.  A dark little place with a list of fancy whiskeys.  I don't do whiskey but a Brooklyn Lager in a fat pint glass did just fine.  You know what they say..."When in Brooklyn...".  I had three of the most amazing and oh so tiny sliders.  The meal was wonderful but we settled on this place because down a hallway and through a curtain and a door was another space.  The Cameo.  They do art, music...you name it back there.   We watched Strand of Oak open up for Crooked Fingers and they were both really, really good.  Really good. 
     It was then back to PA.  So... lots of new things squished into one big fat new event and a road trip that left me inspired in more ways than one.  Thanks Leigh Ann, Todd, Ivan, Mr. Nose, Tim and all of the others that made me smile.  It was a good day. 

A Day with Jake

--Trains
--Cariboo
--Memory
--Restaurant
--Disney Game
--Candy Land
--Hide and Seek
--Basketball
--Tag
--Stories
--Swings
...and that was only a fraction of the time spent together.  Yep, Jake is 4 and we had a really nice day! Thanks Jake...it was just as fun for me as it was for you!

Dinner at The Buffet with Mary and Jessie

     Mary has friends.  Lots of them.  She takes time to get together with them...which seems impossible since she has so darn many.  Tonight, she made her way out to a little two day getaway with her long time pal, Jessie.  She is one of the sweetest women to walk the Earth...so when she invited me to join them for dinner I could ONLY say YES!  Their little road trip brought them to the Poconos for some casino and outlets time.  It was kicked off with a dinner at The Buffet.  Now two of us are counting some points so it was a perfect blend of moderation and intelligence with a little splurge for dessert.  Nothing crazy (though I have yet to figure out my points!). 
     We laughed and ate shrimp.  We giggled and had salads.  We people watched over unsweetened iced teas.  We shared stories over the best green beans ever.   We made plans over the perfectly tiny bowl of soft serve ice cream complete with sprinkles.  It was a lovely meal but it fed my soul way more than my tummy. 
     On the way back through the smoky casino (cough, cough) I found a penny heads up and then a quarter heads up and passed them both to the gambler.  I already come out ahead for the night...hope she ends up the same! 

A Rose at Mass for Sally

     I received a letter in the mail from the church a few weeks ago.  They were having a special All Soul's Mass for those of us who had lost someone in the past year.  Tonight at 5:30 we joined together in remembrance.  Each family was given a red rose.  We sang one of the same songs that I selected for the memorial last winter.
     We were all there together to honor them.  Some of the pain could be felt across the room.  I started out strong and found at one point the tears just wouldn't stop flowing.  Quiet and calm...but copious.  It was then I heard her.  She said something so real and so funny (and nothing I could ever share) that it made me smile instantly.  That is Sally.  And tonight we saw her name on a list of the lost.  Still surreal.  To all of you that have lost a dear one this year...a prayer was said in your honor...and my Mom is probably chatting away with them as I type.

Share the Desiderata

      Lately and more than ever I am asking the universe for some answers.  I mean really asking.  I do it on the way to work.  I ask my Ipod to send me a message.  I ask as I'm working.  I thing about it before I go to sleep.  When I wake up...it's my first question of the day.  I even asked while at church tonight...a church I have been starting to wonder about.  I know the universe was warning me but I was ignoring it.  I am listening...I swear.  Themes were big today.  I was fed a most delicious bowl of kale soup by my dear friend and support, Leigh Ann.  She feeds me on a daily basis with way more than just soup.  My sister was also a source of extreme encouragement.  It has been a rough road as siblings but now more than ever she is one of my biggest cheerleaders.  She answered specific questions today without prompt as if she had heard me ask them.  I also turned to Oprah tonight.  It was about rising up from the ashes.  I teared up when she explained that depression and sadness can make you so tired and weary.  Those are the two words I have been using for years.  Tired.  Weary.  I also dug through some papers in a pile today and found a copy of poem.  As a young kid I had written this very poem on the back of a notebook.  I would read it daily.  Sometimes more than once.  I didn't know from mantras or meditations back then.  I was just a kid and yet I was doing what all of the wise people tell me to do now as a grown woman.  As I read through it all of these lost years later I realized that so many of these themes became my own.  I planted seeds and then grew right around them.  I also think I forgot a few and need to get to work.  Either way I will be reading it daily yet again.  The universe heard me loud and clear on a day when things were dark and scary.  Thank you universe and all of you who help me on a daily basis to remember that there are many reasons to just keep going...

Desiderata

Go placidly amid the noise and haste,
and remember what peace there may be in silence.

As far as possible without surrender
be on good terms with all persons.
Speak your truth quietly and clearly;
and listen to others,
even the dull and the ignorant;
they too have their story.
Avoid loud and aggressive persons,
they are vexations to the spirit.

If you compare yourself with others,
you may become vain or bitter;
for always there will be greater and lesser persons than yourself.

Enjoy your achievements as well as your plans.
Keep interested in your own career, however humble;
it is a real possession in the changing fortunes of time.
Exercise caution in your business affairs;
for the world is full of trickery.
But let this not blind you to what virtue there is;
many persons strive for high ideals;
and everywhere life is full of heroism.

Be yourself.
Especially, do not feign affection.
Neither be cynical about love;
for in the face of all aridity and disenchantment
it is as perennial as the grass.

Take kindly the counsel of the years,
gracefully surrendering the things of youth.
Nurture strength of spirit to shield you in sudden misfortune.
But do not distress yourself with dark imaginings.
Many fears are born of fatigue and loneliness.

Beyond a wholesome discipline,
be gentle with yourself.
You are a child of the universe,
no less than the trees and the stars;
you have a right to be here.
And whether or not it is clear to you,
no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should.

Therefore be at peace with God,
whatever you conceive Him to be,
and whatever your labors and aspirations,
in the noisy confusion of life keep peace with your soul.

With all its sham, drudgery, and broken dreams,
it is still a beautiful world.
Be cheerful.
Strive to be happy.

New Street for the Trick-or-Treat

     Imagine a street on Halloween like a movie set.  Houses decorated with over the top fright.  Street lamps shining down upon ankle deep maple leaves.  Children squealing with delight.  Now...imagine it soooooo crowded that they need barricades and you hope you don't lose your kid by the end of the night.  Oh, and they give out little tiny rock hard candies because they will see kids by the thousands.  Thousands.  Not even lying.  The little neighborhood of charm and wonder turned into crazyfest over the last few years and became a bit much.
     Tonight, we headed to a new neighborhood.  I've been candy hunting with Jenne for almost as many years as I've been taking my children out...but this year we moved the location.  It was quaint and the people were quite friendly and in her very own neighborhood we actually could say hello to people that we knew.  Candy was better.  The occasional scary mask was a treat.  Other than dodging puddles and snow and rock salt...it was really fun. 
     Thanks to the little octopus for letting the two 50's kids join in the excitement!!!

Mom's Birthday...without Mom

     We had a snow day yesterday with thunder.  Very out of the ordinary.  Very.  It gave me a day of calm.  A day I needed.  Mom used to call them "burn out days".  She would sense that the pace was getting to me...the high grades, the sports, the drama of childhood.  Sometimes I needed a break.  Sometimes she did and needed the company.  Either way when it snows before Halloween and gives you a power outage and forces you to read magazines that you never get to...oh and there is thunder... it makes you wonder.  She can be pretty persuasive.  There is something sweet about a 5 year old and an 85 year old playing chess together by candlelight.  Peace was here last night at my house after a day of rest.  Her daughter needed a "burning the candle at both ends day" off from real life. 
     Today was her official birthday and the sun was shining brightly.  Our power was out only long enough to give us some down time and grab some extra blankets but not enough to be a nuisance.  We all sat around the table for breakfast with sunshine pouring in through the windows.  We went to church.  Got donuts.  It was nice.  Simple.  While children were occupied I spent some time in her room.  I dusted the dresser that still holds her trinkets and knick knacks.  I cleaned the mirror that holds the pictures of her dear grandchildren.  I talked to her as if she was right there because I knew she was....nagging me to move things back to the way she had them.  I even said out loud, "ok, ok".  We would've been smiling and giggling about the silly things we always found so funny.  I honored her space.  I moved things.  The little schedule that I would make for her was still tucked under the glass of her nightstand from a long time ago.  Things were trapped in time.  Ten months later I know that those things being there doesn't mean that she will be there but I sure as hell know she would be yelling to clean them up.  I cleaned and talked and smiled knowing she would feel so much better knowing I was doing what she couldn't for my father. 
     I then grabbed my daughter and headed to a place that caught my eye this morning.  As we headed over the bridge driving to town the sunlight blazed upon a patch of gingko leaves.  The wind and snow knocked the leaves off of the big tree to form a giant sea of yellow happiness.  Emily was in her glory surrounded by her favorite color.   Bits of snow mixed in with crayon shavings added a little bit of magic to the waterfall spot we would visit often.  We took pictures of the beauty of it all.   It's an odd feeling when autumn isn't quite finished and winter comes barging in....even if only for a short stay. 
     We stopped for gas.  It hit me.  If we can have thunder during snowstorms...maybe we can hit the powerball.  In we marched to buy two tickets.  One of them with all of the numbers that mattered to Sally.  We talked about what we would do and who we would help if when we win. 
     As for dinner, well...only one way to go.  The Willow Tree.  It was a bonus visit because of the Halloween decorations I have been promising for my little guy to see for years.  We ate together in her honor.  My mother and I had shared many a lunch there...together...just the girls.  I'm sure she is mad I didn't get the escargot but I fear not even a brave new girl can face the little snails.  Not yet, anyway.  I've learned to never say never. 
     This week has been rough.  It was always a favorite time of year.  Her birthday and our favorite holiday so close together.  She lived for the grandchildren in costumes and decorations.  She'd given out a bar or a thousand in her time.  But today was the celebration of her.  I lived a full day of cherished moments.  She was right there with me...free of pain.  I wouldn't dare be sad for a woman who made us all so happy.  When you live to honor the lost...when you carry on their wishes...when you refuse to waste another moment of life...it gets easier to let them go.  We hold onto them for us.  Now, I imagine she is always there watching...so I sure as hell better do it right!!!  I'm sure she was with me for the day so I needed to take her to do the things she would've liked. 
     There was an odd peace to a day I was so scared to see.  I guess it's not that odd...actually makes sense I suppose.   She was always there the biggest when I needed her the most and today was no exception.  Happy Birthday, my dear Mom...we all love you so.  Oh and by the way lady, don't think I don't know that you were the little whisper in the ear of 9 year old girl when she was requesting Halloween costumes!  50's theme it is!!!

Listen to my Cousin as a Guest on a Podcast

     My cousin, Christy, is one of my heroes.  She lived one life full of crunching numbers and corporate America and then dumped that one to follow her passion.  She is now a chef, traveler, blogger, beekeeper and gardener...you name it.  She tweets and status updates and blogs and fills my brain with delicious recipes and the tasty imagery to accompany the information.  Oh, and before the list of ingredients comes a darn good story to give you the inspiration to make the dish.   Christy loves Halloween and does it up right.  She was featured on a radio show and podcast, A Mom of Many Hats.  The show is about celebrating the lives of those who try to do it all.  No limitations...just the encouragement that is needed in the exhausting job of doing everything.  Christy was featured because of her many terrific ideas on how to celebrate Halloween.  She also makes things simple and therefore even more awesome....not that she couldn't compete on Top Chef....and I would love it if she did...but sometimes it's just about the basics that make things so great.   I only wish I lived closer to be a taster of many a recipe test!
     It was a strange and unseasonably cold day.  We went on to get many inches of snow while the autumn leaves were still falling.  I started my day snuggled in bed with a cup of coffee and a podcast that got me in the spirit and made me smile.  Thanks, Christy!  Happy Halloween!!!

If you are in need of a great new blog full of tasty recipes and even tastier stories be sure to check her out at: fudgeripple.blogspot.com

Popcorn Buddha

     I might love popcorn...a tad.  Ok, ok...it is my thing.  If there was one snack food that I run to it is popcorn.  There is something about the salt and the crunch.  While leaving the parking lot of my kids' school the sign grabbed my attention.  Today was the day.  60 flavors.  SIXTY.  They are broken down into themes like cheese, chocolate and fruit.  You get to sample them and they come in all size bags for any budget.  Tonight I grabbed 6 bags of 6 flavors (little $1.50 mini bags) and took them to the infamous Jalloween party.   These were the flavors:  Loaded Baked Potato, Mac-n-cheese, Movie Night Butter, Dill Pickle, Sour Cream and Chives and get this...the girl loaded up two flavors in one bag...hot wings with ranch.  How awesome is that?  All of the flavor of wing night with the calories of popcorn!  Win. Win.  Service was as terrific as the popcorn.  All sorts of cool packages if you want to make it a gift and they let you see where it is made fresh!  Needless to say, we WILL be stopping on in for some new flavors very, very soon!

Staff Meeting at MudWorks

     JoAnn has been working her ass off for years.  Team members have come and grown.  The business has moved...multiple times.  I started working there back in January.  The timing was perfect.  3 hours 2 days a week.  Which turned into 5 hours.  Which turned into 3 days.  Then 4.  The company is growing.  Catalogs are buying her pottery...and she still touches the clay for a ridiculous amount of time each and every day.  The store is up and stocked.  Classes are offered.  Special events draw in whole families to enjoy a moment together.  Girl Scout Troops, birthday parties, art shows...you name it.  It is a company based on good old fashioned hard work, creativity, service and passion. 
     Today we sat around a table complete with a box of donuts and had our first official staff meeting.  There is a ton going on and plenty to do so we needed to join up and figure things out.  It's a great batch of people.  I am glad to have a job in these tough times.  I am blessed to have a flexible one that allows me to be where I am needed.  I am lucky to be around some hysterical and kind and wonderful people.  JoAnn, Leigh Ann, John, Christa, MJ, and who could forget Flash...thank you.   The universe also needs a big fat thank you from me for this one...with or without the Boston Cream!

Kale Chips

     Yep, you read right.  I'll wait and see who makes fun...I know a few off the top of my head.  Farm fresh kale (washed and cut), olive oil and salt for 10 minutes in a 350° oven.  Delicious... but kale ranks at the top of my veggie list normally.  Say what you will but I got my veggies today!!!

Passed on Wings and Made a Salad

     Another crazy day.  It would've been a heckuva lot easier to grab some fatty wings and a beer or two.  I opted for housework, mom stuff, farm share pickups and lunch prep.  Now, somewhere in my 39 years I am sure I skipped an invite for wings and made some sort of salad....possibly during college.  BUT, I know I never put a darn fresh-from-the-farm daikon radish in it.  Tastes a little like spicy dirt I have to say but here's to hoping the dressing balances out the zing. 

Ben & Jerry's Late Night Snack

     I heart Jimmy Fallon....so I had to try his ice cream....especially when I heard there were fudge covered potato chip clusters.  Oh and the clusters are hiding in vanilla bean ice cream and salty caramel swirls.  I purchased it over a week ago but waited for a night that needed a new thing.  I also was quite careful with other points today.  1/2 cup of this bad boy was 8 points in WW...3 more than my entire lunch.  But Ben, Jerry and Jimmy ---it was well worth it!!!

2 Miles for 2 Girls for Dove Self-Esteem Wknd

This weekend Dove had a mission for women.  This is part of it:    

Imagine a world where beauty is a source of confidence, not anxiety.  Dove^® is committed to building positive self-esteem and inspiring all women and girls to reach their full potential–but we need your help. 

     They then went on to list a whole series of activities for women and girls.  A celebration of women. It was a special weekend to make time for the thing we all could use more of...self-esteem.    I've been missing my track walks as well as girl time with my nine year old...so to the track we went to have a little of both.  We had two whole miles to discuss things.  We talked about things we were really proud of about ourselves.  At nine years of age the nervous laughter and quiet voice proves that she is already growing uncomfortable tooting her own horn.  We worked through it...we listed things we liked about each other as well as ourselves.   Turns out this little exercise to help my young daughter...worked quite nicely for both of us.  It is nice to know that she likes her musical abilities, is proud of herself as a student and thinks her hair is cool.  We also talked about goals that we have for some of the things we want to improve.  Oh and I found out that her latest career path has moved from teacher or vet to surgeon.  Not a bad direction for a bright little girl.  
     Life gets busy for all of us.  But when I decided to become a mother I also decided to do way more than the basics.  I push constantly to do all that I can to be supportive in a million little ways as well as the the major biggies.  My little girl has different needs now...and I'm realizing that time is more important than ever.  One on one with homework, quiet times for talks, more entries in the Mother-Daughter journal we started a while back, a fan at recitals, a volunteer at school...the list goes on and on.  I also have to know when to be the training wheels and when to let her fly.  I gauge quite carefully.  I sneak in the little life lessons every chance I can.  I am gentle with her spirit.  I try to model the behaviors that she needs to learn.  In teaching her to be a good person I reinforce those lessons with myself.  My mother passed many wonderful things to me...but there were a few spots that needed improvement...and sometimes I put them in the spotlight.  I don't want her to need anyone to tell her how amazing she is...I want her to know on her own.  Sure, she has been told she is a gift since she is little but today we took the steps for her to learn that she herself can be her biggest source of strength...2 miles worth of steps...and only the beginning of the journey.  


     (Hey ladies!  Life is hard.  We all work to be more.  To be better.  We all struggle each day with the way we look, how much we weigh, bad decisions we have made and a bazillion other issues.  Don't forget to tell yourselves how much you rock. Also, don't forget to tell each other.  Be kind.  Be supportive.  Ease the judgement.  Be fair.  Give support not criticism.  Make someone smile today.  Give a friend a hug.  A stranger a favor.  Celebrate the sisterhood that we live in!!!!)

Main Street Antiques

    I was feeling sort of low today.  The new thing is my best friend on these days.  A simple drive down good old Main Street always gives me something new.  I popped into a beautiful little antique shop full of really good old things.  Not junk.  Quality.  It was a great distraction and then a player piano started up and....
(You'll have to read my OTHER blog to see what happens next!)

Gabby's 10th Birthday and the Infamous Ice Cream Cake

     A decade.  A whole decade has flown by.  Zoooooooom.  Little tiny Gabby is in the double digits.  She has grown into quite the kid.  We have danced side by side for many a song...here's to another decade of the same!  Happiest birthday to my little friend! (Oh, and the cake....oh man....yummmm!)

IF Institute

     My daughter has joined the ranks of the gifted kids.  They are celebrating these little whipper snappers with a special day each month.  Children from the district's elementary schools join up in one centralized location with a team of teachers and a themed day of extra special fun and learning.  Part of today was tie dye!  It was a blast to be on the inside of a wonderful new pilot program and to watch these group of kids light up as they went from activity to activity.  My cuticles might be multi-colored  for a bit longer but it was worth well worth it!

Aubrey Leland

     I was reading a blog post about friendship when the text came.   The post was about how friends need to find the time to connect.  What better way than to spend hours in a hospital waiting for one of life's most amazing moments...the birth of a baby.   We have been waiting...and bugging...and texting...and wondering for days.  But she is finally here.  And she is perfect.
     When this group gets together (and we seem to as much as the universe will allow) we have a blast.  It is a funny and loud group.  We laugh.  We laugh a lot.  We cherish the things that matter...family comes as the top of the list.   I will speak for myself though...for what I believe to be true for all of us...that we are family even though we do not share the same blood.  We are a sisterhood that has seen decades together.   These bonds are strong and true.  We rush to each other when we need support.  We celebrate the beautiful.  We honor the lost.  We laugh.  We encourage.  We laugh some more. 
     Five perfect and brilliant and gorgeous babies later (yep, a little biased)...we have now all shared the moment of life with one another.   A hallway full of family... and us...the girls that created the bonds of sisters even without the genes that went along. 
     THIS time it was extra special.  It defied the odds of science.  It tightened the bonds of an amazing little family.  It gave a few girls who missed the first time around...a second chance.  It's not often in life you get that second chance...that you get to heal that wound.  When the big sister runs out to tell you that it's a girl...the emotions overwhelm the soul.  Minutes into a brand new sparkling little life and you can see the love that this family has for one another.  Real love.  Beautiful love.  I cried when I heard she came into the world.  I sobbed a bit when I saw her.  I did again as I hugged a proud Papa...the same cry that I had when I welcomed him into the family at the wedding just a short time ago.  This all happened at 1am.  It was not the last time that I cried.  Today my thoughts were full of a sweet little baby and the life that she has in front of her.  Tonight, I got to hold her.  Did I mention she was perfect?  I said hello and she responded with the most sweet little noise.  She is quite brilliant you know.  Dad is an expert at swaddling.   Big sis is rocking her title with grace and sweetness.  Mama is too amazing for words.  Am I crying again right now?  You betcha. 
     I can ramble on and on for hours about how proud I am of a woman that I am lucky to call friend.  I can continue for a few more hours about the man that is her partner.  I can swoon over the family that they have created.  Heck, even their dog is the coolest pooch muppet ever.  I could...but instead I will just say how much I love them all and am grateful for the gift of their friendship and the joy of their sisterhood.  Congratulations!!!  Little Aubrey, you are luckier than you will ever know!

PTO Meeting at Smithfield

     At the old school I went to lots and lots of events.  I also went to the meetings that helped to plan said events.  It was a packed house full of wonderful parents who really wanted to be an active support system for the educations of our children.  Last year was the first year at the new school and it was a very hard year to volunteer for much at all.  This year TWO little Pecks are at Smithfield and I take motherhood quite seriously.  I have already clocked in for five events which is pretty good for mid-October.  Plus let us not forget the entire day I will spend helping out the new program...more about that soon.
     I took it a step further and went to my first PTO meeting.  All 14 of us sat there and discussed everything from fund raisers (be prepared to order some stuff oh loved ones :) to upcoming events.  I was also somehow signed up to be a room parent...yet another new thing!  The meeting was very informative and taken very seriously by a group of amazing people.  I applaud them for getting so much done and making the lives of our children even better.  I would love to be even more involved and take on a more active role but I do what I can when I can.  Now, remember to keep a budget for holiday shopping that will not only give someone a lovely gift but will also help a sweet little school raise some funds!!!

Adam Mamawala

     Tonight I checked out a very young comedian.  He was really funny and as usual Leigh Ann and I were the two loud ones cracking up the entire time.  I give the young ones a chance for a few reasons.  1.  It is a free show.  2.  I like the fact that they are so appreciative.  3.  Young means they are yet to be discovered.

Here is a small list of some names you may recognize...I saw them while at ESU back in the day when they were young as well:

--Jay Mohr
--Margaret Cho
--Dave Chappelle
--Chris Rock

Adam Mamawala...good luck and thanks for the laughter!

Cranberry Bog

     A few hours in the woods with a tour guide to see the bog and my mind was blown.  First off we were trekking through land that was going back about 10, 000 years when some glacier did it's thing.  We were viewing flora and fauna that would normally be seen in Canada...because...get this...the conditions are the same.  It is such a unique space that it has been studied by scientists from all over.  Then we found out some little details about how peanuts are carcinogenic, honey can be unsafe and the teaberry leaves are quite toxic.   Back to the bog...it has pitcher plants, cranberries and all sorts of lichen, moss and fern.  Crazy looking plants that you just don't see in the everyday world.  As we meandered through the bog on a floating boardwalk we were taught about so many things.  I couldn't get past the idea that the sphagnum moss and various layers of the bog go down something like 40 feet.  I kept trying to wrap my head around so many concepts.  We felt the temperature drop as we made our way in but that wasn't the only thing that made us feel like we were in some other world.  It was truly a unique feeling traveling through the woods and into the belly of the bog.  Oh and when you add an awesome tour guide (professor of botany), cranberry snacks, a couple of friends and a free reservation...it made it all the better!

Chocolate Wine

     When Mary goes into the liquor store and comes back with a bag and some excitement...be afraid, be very afraid.  It tasted more like a mixed drink loaded with alcohol than a wine and the first sip knocked my head off.   Think grain alcohol meets yoohoo.  One small taste will take this new thing to the "never have to do that again" category.  I'll stick to loving my chocolate and appreciating a good glass of wine but the two can stay on opposite sides of the glass.