What 'Cha Doin'?

So right about now I should be having an incredible time with my family.  That was what I wrote down on the itinerary so-o-o-o-o-o-o, we'll see.  ON OCTOBER 1st :->

I'm Still Here - Just Not Here

I truly hope that I am having a fabulous time where I am.

I hope you are as well.

Get back to me October 1st and we'll compare notes.

Unorganized Blogger

I'm still hoping that you will visit me on October 1st.

Yes, it's true, I'm so unorganized that I didn't line up guest bloggers, or create posts for my "away time".  Ugh.

October 1st I'll have lots to say and share!

Can You Wait?

I would be most grateful if you would visit my blog on October 1st.

(I'm away and can't find the computer savvy (or well organized "plan ahead" time) to create words - or pictures - to entertain while I'm away for a few days.

October 1st works for me!  I hope it works for you too.

Racing For The Cure

Well, another Race For The Cure has come and gone and we had a fantastic experience.  My sweet Katie joined for her 3rd time.  I'm so proud of her.  She was telling her little sister, "Lily, you have to come walk with us.  We need to save the boobies!"  And yes, yes we do.

L. to R. - Kathi (sis) Pat (mom) Ann (me) Katie (daughter) Kim (new friend and 7 year breast cancer survivor)

It didn't rain on us as hard as it did last year.  By my Pacific Northwest born and breed radar I didn't think it was going to rain so I didn't carry an umbrella. But my smart girl thought she better bring one along.  

"Here mom, share the umbrella."  I'm so glad it started to drizzle toward the end of our walk.  This is one of my favorite pictures of all time.

Virtual Girls Night Out - Racing For The Cure

It's that time of year, I'm grabbing my serious walking shoes, carbo loading and wearing my pink because this Sunday I'm joining my family and the sisterhood to Race For The Cure.  It will be the third year my oldest, Katie, will be joining my mom, sister and I.  It strikes your heart and takes your breath away when you get to the top of hill and look back at the thousands of fellow fighters.  I look forward to the day we don't have to race any more.  Until that time, let's get moving and enjoy our weekly Friday night party - the Virtual Girls Night Out!

*The Virtual Girls Night Out is for those that don't have a chance to get out of the house but still want to "hang with their friends". So, make yourself a cocktail, put on something cozy and have fun. Leave a comment to let us know you stopped by. We'll do the same and say "Happy VGNO!"*

Time For Some Tunes!


Amos Lee "Flower"

Time For A Cocktail!


Pink Lemonade

    Ingredients:

• 1.25 oz. Captain Morgan Original Spiced
• 3 oz. cranberry juice
• 1 oz. orange juice
• 2 oz. club soda
• 1 lemon wedge

• Preparation:
• Add Captain Morgan Original Spiced Rum and cranberry juice in ice-filled glass. Top with club soda and orange juice.  Garnish with lemon wedge

Now doesn't this sound like the perfect drink after a nice, long run or walk.  I better try one (some ;-> ) out now just to be sure.  Cheers!

Time For The Traveling Heart-Shaped Rock Update!

Our little gem should be at Tracie's place From Tracie in Florida.  After Florida it's heading to upstate New York to visit Nicki at Diaries of A Neurotic Non-Trad.  I'm compiling the pics of it's travels and will create a slide show when it's all said and done.  Do you want to participate?  Click HERE for all the information.


Alright pals, hold on tight to those you love - tell them you love them - and have a great Virtual Girls Night Out. I'm happy that I have fantastic blog buddies like you.  Cheers!

Love Ellen DeGeneres!

I don't understand algebra either.  I guess I should stop judging it then.

Where Are My Eyes?

"Have you seen my glasses?"

I hear this at least once a week from my husband.  "They were right here... I thought?"  Then we go through the usual script of 'Have you checked the desk? The night stand? Your car?' I'm sure, if you're an eyeglass wearer, or live with one, you have a very similar dialogue.

On more than one occasion we've had to buy another pair to replace the missing glasses.  (Which leads me to wonder, did he really just want a different style of frame and this is his sly way of going about it? ;-> ).  Thankfully we've found a wonderful site for the eyeglass wearer, full of wonderful styles and options at terrific prices, GlassesUSA.com. 

GlassesUSA.com has designer styles for men & women.  Their lens types range from reading, bifocal/multifocal glasses, single to prescription sunglasses.  What's really fun is their Virtual Mirror. Just upload a picture of yourself and try on any of their styles. We've had lots of fun with this feature!  (We've even downloaded a picture of our dog Benny, yep, we really have.)

GlassesUSA.com is having a Back-To-School Sale that has some great deals I want to share with you.

• BOGO: Buy any pair of glasses valued at $50 or more and get a second pair of glasses FREE! Code: Back2School 
• Take $25 off any order of glasses with Transitions lenses with the code: Trans25 
• Take 10% off any order. Code: Blog10

I've read that 60% of all adults wear eyeglasses and most of them are over paying for their eye wear.  I hope I've helped my blog friends who wear eyeglasses save some $$$.  There's nothing wrong with cheap glasses, if they're good quality.


(*I'm sharing this info. with you because this company has helped us, honestly :-> )

Old Is Good

~Yep.  Add to that, a cozy sweater.

It's Starting To Come Around

When my first baby was born I didn't know what was in store for me.  One thing I thought would be for certain would be all those "cuddle times" that I saw in magazines and commercials.  Instead I had a child that had no fear, hugged so tightly it hurt and wouldn't let you touch her hair without a struggle.  (For whatever reason she wasn't snuggly with me, but she was, and still is, with my mom - her grandmother.  I'm so grateful.)

I soon came to learn about sensory issues and various syndromes that cause some to process life very intensely.  What a fantastic eye-opener!  Over the years I have learned so much about how people "deal" and it's helped me to empathize with a stressed out mom trying to control a screaming child at the grocery store, or a dad trying to cope with a tantrum throwing toddler.  I hope they hear my mind calling to them, 'Patience. Patience.  Try to keep your cool. If people stare, let them stare! Keep your cool.'

We are in year 13 with my beautiful daughter and it's incredible how she manages herself now.  Things still get to her, they get to us all don't they?  However, she has acquired tools, stored them in her tool box, and has learned to take them out when needed - more often than not.  A family member that missed out on the last 3 years of Katie's life spent time with her recently and said to me, "You did this. You and Rob have made her the beautiful girl she is today."  Well, yes we have, but so have her family and the fantastic teachers at her school. (Are you thinking "It Takes A Village"?  I am.)

And slowly but surely I'm starting to get my "cuddle time".  My oldest daughter actually held my hand the other day.

Ninja Dog

Just when I think I've got this "dog ownership" thing down - it's been 5 years - Benny reminds me he's a sly, not-so-little guy.

Our town was going through a bit of a heat wave and before I took my kids to the neighborhood pool I thought I'd prepare some corn on the cob and get a zucchini from the garden for dinner later.  My husband loves to cook so my part is mostly Sous-chef.  That's fine with me :->

After the corn was shucked and the zucchini prepared I caught up with my kids into the heat of the evening to lounge in the warm shade.  When Rob got home he called to say he started up the grill for the ribs.  Great, I said, I can smell dinner from here.  Then he added, "OK.  I see you only wanted 1 corn on the cob?  Is that just for me?"  'No', I said 'I bought 4 ear of corn, they're on the cutting board, along with a zucchini.'  Then I hear "Um... Uh huh. Oh... I gotta go". 

That damn dog!

Just when I think I've baby proofed, er, I mean dog proofed the kitchen Benny let's me know that he's like a Ninja, so sly, always watching, waiting for his moment to pounce. 

The Career Of Dan Del Piano Turns Its Attention To An Elvis Resort

***Guest Post brought to you by Dan Del Piano***

An Elvis Resort Is The Next Step In The Career Of Daniel Del Piano

Daniel Del Piano is the consummate success story, having created successful enterprises in many diverse areas over the course of his career. Dan Del Piano is now bringing his skill and expertise to his latest venture, the foundation of a luxury resort dedicated to Elvis!

A Mississippi Ranch Gives Dan Del Piano The Vision For His Resort

One of the career interests of Daniel Del Piano has always been real estate. It was this interest that enabled Dan Del Piano to discover a 794-acre location in a town in Mississippi. What Daniel Del Piano learned about this property was that in 1967, Elvis Presley had bought 155 acres of it - a ranch that he could use as an alternate home when life at Graceland, with its popularity as a tourist site, got to be overwhelming. After Elvis' death, Dan Del Piano learned, the ranch began to draw thousands of fans each year, fans who wanted one more way to pay tribute to the legendary musician.

Daniel Del Piano Sets The Wheels In Motion, And The Elvis Presley Ranch Is Born

When Dan Del Piano learned about the attention the 155-acre ranch owned by Elvis was getting, he saw the potential for something great. Daniel Del Piano decided he would use that location to build a resort that would give Elvis fans a wonderful place to remember the music legend. In early 2012, Dan Del Piano hopes to have ready the first phase of this new resort, The Elvis Presley Ranch.

Virtual Girls Night Out - The Rising

Can't escape the symbolism of the date.  September 11, 2001. As much as I don't want to watch remembrances, relive it all, it's everywhere, all around us and a part of who we are.  So I will move through all my emotions and say how grateful I am to be where I am, and how honored I am by all of those that are trying to make things better.  Let's raise a glass, toast those that are truly deserving, and enjoy this Virtual Girls Night Out!

*The Virtual Girls Night Out is for those that don't have a chance to truly get out of the house but still want to "hang with their friends". So, make yourself a cocktail, put on some cozy "what-ever's" and have fun. Leave a comment to let us know you stopped by. We'll do the same and say "Happy VGNO!"*
Time For Some Tunes!


Bruce Springsteen & The E Street Band "The Rising"

Time For A Cocktail!  


World Peace

1 1/2 oz Bombay Sapphire® gin
1/2 oz fresh lemon juice
1 splash elderflower syrup
2 drops Blue Curacao liqueur
2 drops almond syrup

Directions:

Place all the liquid ingredients in a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake well, and strain into a chilled martini glass. Garnish with a white chocolate dove (or bird of choice).

Elderflower syrup?  Oh my, my how fancy!  I can't wait to taste lemon juice with almond syrup and gin.  This should make for a very interesting night ;->

Time For The Traveling Heart-Shaped Rock Update!

Our gem is leaving Mary's place in New Brunswick, Canada today and heading to Tracie's in Florida.  After Florida it's heading to upstate New York.  I'm compiling the pics of it's travels and will create a slide show when it's all said and done.  Do you want to participate?  Click HERE for all the information.

Alright pals, hold on tight to those you love - tell them you love them - and have a great Virtual Girls Night Out. I'm happy that I have fantastic blog buddies like you.  Cheers!

Eric Schaer to Honeymoon in Scotland

***Guest Post from Eric Schaer***

Eric Schaer's Scottish Honeymoon Plans

Preparations are under way for the fall 2011 wedding of Eric Schaer and his fiancé, Cathy Mallet. Following the wedding, Eric Schaer and his new bride will take a morning flight to Scotland for their much anticipated honeymoon. Paying homage to the Scottish heritage of Eric Schaer was very important, so Cathy gave him complete freedom in planning their once in a lifetime trip.

Honeymoon In Scotland For Eric Schaer

The first stop on the couple's honeymoon agenda is Edinburgh, where they will be staying in a top-rated hotel located near the Royal Mile. After seeing the sights, including Edinburgh Castle, Eric Schaer and Cathy will depart Edinburgh to embark on new and exciting explorations in the Scottish Highlands.

With their sights set on spotting the famous Loch Ness Monster, they are planning many adventurous visits to local historic castles. After taking in the scenery, the couple will return to the cozy bed and breakfast where they will be staying during their time in the Highlands. Although golfing is not Cathy's activity of choice, it is a favorite pastime of Eric Schaer. Thus the couple is planning a round of golf at one of the most esteemed golf courses in the area, fulfilling Eric's long-time dream of playing a round in the birthplace of golf.

Upon their return, Eric Schaer and Cathy look forward to starting a family.

How Do You Feel?

"How do you feel having your little girl look so grown-up?"

My 13 yrs. old daughters teacher from last year was in the hallway with us yesterday.  We did a brief "catch-up" on our summers and, as the conversation was winding down, and my girl was walking away, her former teacher put her hands to her face and mouthed the words, "Oh My Gosh".  She then asked the question I've been tossing about in my brain for a while now, "How do you feel?"

My daughter is in 8th grade, stands tall at 5'9 and has a body to match that height.  Same growth that I had, no surprises.  The problem with having the height and all that goes with it is that people, better yet strangers, assume you are older than you are and address you in a more mature way than you're ready to handle.  It's a pretty gross feeling, I remember it well.

So with the question of how I'm feeling, loads of thoughts go through my mind.  There are so many angles, so many emotions about the maturing of your child.  To be perfectly honest, my first thought is that I'm fading.  I stand next to her (still an inch taller, thank you very much!) and I see her beautiful features deliver themselves everyday while I see mine fading in the mirror. I don't look like this in my mind!  It's that darn reflection.  I'll put on the mascara and the blush to bring them back temporarily, but away they go.  And I'm cool with that, really.  It's just part of my answer to, "How do you feel?"

I'm feeling a lot. That is my answer.  And I will continue to feel it all while I watch both of my daughters grow and be amazed and grateful they are in my life.

Carousel Day School | Hicksville, NY | Early Education Advocates

***Guest Post brought to you by Carousel Day***

Looking For Outstanding Care And Curriculum For Your Little Learner? Check Out Carousel Day School In Hicksville

At Carousel Day School in Hicksville, NY we take our responsibility as early education advocates extremely seriously. Under the careful eye and mentorship of our director, Eugene Formica, we realize that the experience that your child has in our classroom helps build a foundation for all learning experiences to come. Partnering with fellow child and early education specialists, Jane Formica and Kathy Cordaro, Eugene Formica leads Carousel Day School in our commitment to offering a unique early education format where our students thrive in the learning process.

Carousel Day School: We Emphasize The Importance Of Each Student In Our Classroom

Carousel Day School appreciates the differences in each and every learner entrusted to our care. The staff at Carousel Day School all meets state recognized criteria and accreditation to ensure every educator is well-trained in understanding the specific needs of each student.

At Carousel Day School, we not only emphasize scholastic merit, but also the crucial components that social and interpersonal skills play in the day to day success of children in our classroom. It is this formula for educational equilibrium that allows Carousel Day School to consistently deliver an enriched early education experience.

It's Here Somewhere

We're keepin' the "soccer mom" vibe alive with our new (to us) car, a Honda Odyssey.  And while my daughters aren't thrilled with this new vehicle, I am overjoyed.  I just returned from a little road trip to the Oregon Coast to meet up with my mom and sister and I relished every minute in a car that A.) would start when I turned the ignition key and B.) well, my mind just kind of stops there because I am just so happy to have a car that works.

The other day I chaperoned a group of kids to Oaks Park.  It's Portland, OR own amusement park and it's adorable. I'm not the only one who wanted to get in that last summer hurrah and found our van joining a slightly busy parking lot.  We grabbed our things and I strolled while the girls ran to the ticket booth.  I knew their hoodies wouldn't last long because we were experiencing an usual heatwave, but my voice somehow didn't register in their excitement. 

While the girls were standing in line for a ride they called The Squirrel Cages they asked if I would hold their hoodies.  Instead I told them I was going to take the jackets to the car and off I went to the parking lot that had now tripled in size.

I had an odd realization as I reached the sea of family cars in various shades of grey and white, I didn't note what aisle my car was parked and I couldn't remember my new license plate number.  I know that our new van is graphite grey and that it's a Honda Odyssey.  There.  That's all I got.  So here I am, slowly walking through the parking lot with my remote control keychain clicking the Door Open button on any Honda Odyssey I find.

This one?  Nope.  This one?  Nope.  This one?  Nope. This one?  (Please dear God don't let Security come after me). I'm beginning to panic. Do I call the Lost and Found? What would I say and not sound like a nitwit?  Do I stay until closing and see which grey van is the last to leave?  One last attempt,  this one? Yes!  This is the one! I try to look nonchalant as I place the jackets inside then dig through my purse to find a pen and paper.  I go to the back of the car and write down my license plate number, make a mental note that I'm parked near the gazebo with a rusty sink then head back to the park.

I don't mind having a car that looks like all the rest, I just need to find a way to stand out among the pack.

Virtual Girls Night Out - Make It Work!

Well, we have a new (to us) car.  It's a Honda Odyssey.  I like it, but my girls want our old van back.  I'm not exactly sure why, other than the fact that change of any kind is difficult and they probably want to stick with what they know, even if that means, no air conditioning, constant repair bills and getting to know the tow truck drivers by name.  Change is all around! Let's hold on tight, hope for the best and get going with our blog party, the Virtual Girls Night Out!

*The Virtual Girls Night Out is for those that don't have a chance to truly get out of the house but still want to "hang with their friends". So, make yourself a cocktail, put on some cozy "what-ever's" and have fun. Leave a comment to let us know you stopped by. We'll do the same and say "Happy VGNO!"*
 

Time For Some Tunes!

Alpha Rev  "New Morning"

Do yourself a favor and get this song, listen to it while in the garden, going for a walk, or driving.  Love it!

Time For A Cocktail!

Morning Glory

Ingredients:

1 1/2 oz Vodka
1/2 oz Dark Creme de Cacao
2 oz Light Cream
1/4 tsp Grated Nutmeg
Directions: 
Combine the vodka, creme de cacao and cream in a cocktail shaker half-filled with ice cubes. Shake well, and strain into a cocktail glass. Garnish with a dusting of nutmeg, and serve.

Time For The Traveling Heart-Shaped Rock!

Our dear blog friend Mary at Kyooty Center took our little gem to the beach.

What a lucky, little rock :->  Visit Mary at Kyooty Center and find out more about the T.H.S.R.P. stay in Canada.  So fun! Next stop Tracie's place in Florida.  Would you like to have the Traveling Heart-Shaped Rock Project visit your blog?  We have 22 stops so far and you would be a welcome addition.  Click here for all the information.

Alright blog pals, have fun at the Virtual Girls Night Out!