Apple Picking in
New Jersey
Funny Faces in
Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania
Friday, September 30, 2011
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
FIRST
I don't know if I told you sister but I ordered my first print from 20x200. Finally! I often look at the website and all of the prints and think in my head what I would order. But I never seem to pull the plug.
Then you mentioned to me the latest Jenny Odell print - 125 Stadiums. Her work has often caught my eye but this one fits our family. This print is a collection of satellite images of 125 different football, baseball and maybe even soccer statdiums plucked together on one print. Pretty cool.
Tracy
Then you mentioned to me the latest Jenny Odell print - 125 Stadiums. Her work has often caught my eye but this one fits our family. This print is a collection of satellite images of 125 different football, baseball and maybe even soccer statdiums plucked together on one print. Pretty cool.
Tracy
125 Stadiums
by Jenny Odell
by Jenny Odell
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
This & That {it's been awhile}
Sometimes there is so much to say, I have to post a "this & that" --> happy reading!
1. Naked nails? I love a manicure and the neat, clean look it brings to my overworked hands. That said, as soon as the polish starts chipping (which is usually in six hours to be exact) the polish comes off. Instead, lately I have opted for getting a manicure with my nails buffed instead of polished. It is heaven. There is a slight shine to them and they look tip top all week. Try it and I know you'll like it too.
2. The sniff test. Henry tends to say he did something, which he hasn't done. {this is a lie btw} Example: "Henry, did you brush your teeth?" "Yes, I did!" {when I feel his toothbrush, it is dry of course.) Then, "Henry did you wash your hair?" "Yes, I did!" (when I smell his hair, it smells like hair of course.) PS..I finally notice the shampoo is unscented. No lie this time.
3. Ed was so proud of the cool tshirt he purchased at the cool surf shop on Block Island. He usually wears a large, but claimed the shirts appeared to run small, so he got an xl. Being a mom, I shake out the new shirt and take a look. Yep, the xl still looks small because it is a KID'S shirt. Luckily, he had his receipt.
4. A few days ago, the temperatures dipped into the 60's. No humidity :) and a nip in the air. I immediately dove into my closet and grabbed the new sweater that I have been dying to wear. Success. Well, as the temperatures climbed throughout the day, I hung tough and continued to wear the sweater, despite the beads of sweat dripping down my back. No joke. Have you ever hung tough for fashion?
tb
1. Naked nails? I love a manicure and the neat, clean look it brings to my overworked hands. That said, as soon as the polish starts chipping (which is usually in six hours to be exact) the polish comes off. Instead, lately I have opted for getting a manicure with my nails buffed instead of polished. It is heaven. There is a slight shine to them and they look tip top all week. Try it and I know you'll like it too.
2. The sniff test. Henry tends to say he did something, which he hasn't done. {this is a lie btw} Example: "Henry, did you brush your teeth?" "Yes, I did!" {when I feel his toothbrush, it is dry of course.) Then, "Henry did you wash your hair?" "Yes, I did!" (when I smell his hair, it smells like hair of course.) PS..I finally notice the shampoo is unscented. No lie this time.
3. Ed was so proud of the cool tshirt he purchased at the cool surf shop on Block Island. He usually wears a large, but claimed the shirts appeared to run small, so he got an xl. Being a mom, I shake out the new shirt and take a look. Yep, the xl still looks small because it is a KID'S shirt. Luckily, he had his receipt.
4. A few days ago, the temperatures dipped into the 60's. No humidity :) and a nip in the air. I immediately dove into my closet and grabbed the new sweater that I have been dying to wear. Success. Well, as the temperatures climbed throughout the day, I hung tough and continued to wear the sweater, despite the beads of sweat dripping down my back. No joke. Have you ever hung tough for fashion?
tb
Emma "hanging tough" 4 Fashion!
Monday, September 26, 2011
BOARD
Don't you just love magazines and how they are filled with great design ideas and inspiration? Do you remember the magazine (not sure which one) that had the gold framed chalkboard hanging in the living room? You and I both jumped on that idea right away. I found the old, crusty, vintage, heavy chalkboard at Renninger's. It is like bolted to my wall. You bought the nice new one that has fresh shiny black slate.
As you know sister, I cannot draw a circle yet alone a picture. Most of the time I have to find a picture to copy. But what I love about the chalkboard is that it allows for some artistic expression. Easy to draw something, erase and try again. I love to try fresh new ideas, whether it is for a holiday, a birthday or just a plain old quote.
What's on your board sister?
Tracy
As you know sister, I cannot draw a circle yet alone a picture. Most of the time I have to find a picture to copy. But what I love about the chalkboard is that it allows for some artistic expression. Easy to draw something, erase and try again. I love to try fresh new ideas, whether it is for a holiday, a birthday or just a plain old quote.
What's on your board sister?
Tracy
Kate - soccer
Jack - cross country
Matthew - football
Sunday, September 25, 2011
Fugg This!
True story: a first grade girl was so proud of her new Uggs. She was beaming. Wait a second, said another girls, turn around she told the girl. Upon close inspection of the boot's back heel, she told the girl those aren't Uggs. Those are just "Fuggs" -- Fake Uggs.
Sigh. As my daughters beg for new Uggs this year, I do some research..if my memory is correct, I believe Uggs for children once cost somewhere under one hundred dollars. Quite a lot for boots I think, but truly they wear them EVERY day {except gym days} for eight months straight. When I break it down, I do get my money's worth. The downside is that once spring arrives, the Uggs are trashed and can't be "handed down" to anyone.
That said, my research reveals this season's crop of knit, suede, pink, purple, high, low Uggs costs north of one hundred and closer to 120 or 160 dollars!!!! Yikes! What has happened??!! I already start laying the groundwork with my girls --> your Uggs from last year still fit! Uggs are a perfect Christmas gift from grandmothers or Santa! You can use the cash stuffed inside your piggy banks! Needless to say, no one likes my groundwork.
For now, the story ends. Although I do have a $22.00 pair of Fuggs on the way. Personally, I feel like boycotting Uggs on the principle of the price increase. And, I wish my girls could recognize the lesson of not following the trend and wear their Fuggs with pride.
Tricia
Sigh. As my daughters beg for new Uggs this year, I do some research..if my memory is correct, I believe Uggs for children once cost somewhere under one hundred dollars. Quite a lot for boots I think, but truly they wear them EVERY day {except gym days} for eight months straight. When I break it down, I do get my money's worth. The downside is that once spring arrives, the Uggs are trashed and can't be "handed down" to anyone.
That said, my research reveals this season's crop of knit, suede, pink, purple, high, low Uggs costs north of one hundred and closer to 120 or 160 dollars!!!! Yikes! What has happened??!! I already start laying the groundwork with my girls --> your Uggs from last year still fit! Uggs are a perfect Christmas gift from grandmothers or Santa! You can use the cash stuffed inside your piggy banks! Needless to say, no one likes my groundwork.
For now, the story ends. Although I do have a $22.00 pair of Fuggs on the way. Personally, I feel like boycotting Uggs on the principle of the price increase. And, I wish my girls could recognize the lesson of not following the trend and wear their Fuggs with pride.
Tricia
Friday, September 23, 2011
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
RESOLVE
Interesting question you pose to me sister. I haven't thought of doing back-to-school resolutions but it is a fine idea. After some thought and consideration, here you go:
1. Select clothing the night before
2. Calm atmosphere in the morning
3. Calm atmostphere at night during homework
4. Better bedtime routine
Even though I just established this list, we are not doing good so far. It didn't help that I was out of town the 2nd week of school. And it is funny how each kid gives business for a different thing. For example:
Jack - spends hours on homework (although he is doing great so far)
Matthew - does not want to go to bed at night
Kate - does not like any outfit that I pick out ... everything bothers her
I am finding it hard to keep everything organized with everyone coming and going from all different directions. My house looks and feels like a fraternity! I am already missing the dog days of summer.
1. Select clothing the night before
2. Calm atmosphere in the morning
3. Calm atmostphere at night during homework
4. Better bedtime routine
Even though I just established this list, we are not doing good so far. It didn't help that I was out of town the 2nd week of school. And it is funny how each kid gives business for a different thing. For example:
Jack - spends hours on homework (although he is doing great so far)
Matthew - does not want to go to bed at night
Kate - does not like any outfit that I pick out ... everything bothers her
I am finding it hard to keep everything organized with everyone coming and going from all different directions. My house looks and feels like a fraternity! I am already missing the dog days of summer.
Tracy
Tuesday, September 20, 2011
Happy New Year!
Do you find yourself making "back-to-school resolutions"? I do. Much like New Year's resolutions in January, a new school year provides a clean slate, so to speak, each September.There are plenty of resolutions to go around ~ for myself, my children, and my family. Here is a list of my resolutions..check back in June to see how I did.
1. make a "real" breakfast, of the bacon, egg, toast variety, at least once during the week
2. organize healthier, interesting lunches for the kiddies each day..even for Henry who pretty much eats only "white" food
3. create a positive, encouraging atmosphere for homework..no yelling or threatening
4. encourage the kids (even the sleepy ones) to help out with the morning duties -- making beds, getting dressed, etc.
Do you have any new-school-year resolutions sister?
Tricia
1. make a "real" breakfast, of the bacon, egg, toast variety, at least once during the week
2. organize healthier, interesting lunches for the kiddies each day..even for Henry who pretty much eats only "white" food
3. create a positive, encouraging atmosphere for homework..no yelling or threatening
4. encourage the kids (even the sleepy ones) to help out with the morning duties -- making beds, getting dressed, etc.
Do you have any new-school-year resolutions sister?
Tricia
Monday, September 19, 2011
WATERFRONT
I had the opportunity to attend a national convention for a professional organization that I belong to. This year it was held at the National Harbor. Described as the premier waterfront destination in the D.C. Metro Area. What is noteworthy of the location; it is a new, planned development. Quite a feat given the fact that it is only four years old and we all know real estate development recently came to a screeching halt.
The site includes a convention center, hotels, restaurants, retail and some residential condos. The site sits along the Potomac River and has a water taxi that takes you across the river to Alexandria, VA. There is an exit right off the Washington Beltway so it is easily accessible. Geographically the National Harbor is at the SE corner of D.C.
What struck me as kind of odd is the site is not contiguous to any other neighborhoods. It pretty much sits all by itself. It took a little getting used to because it is so made up … they are essentially creating a mini city. The buildings are tall, the site was well thought out, it is very clean. A great option if you want to visit D.C., hop on the water taxi and then make your way into the city for some sightseeing.
Tracy
Gaylord Convention Center
view along the water
the streets of National Harbor
greeter at a restaurant
Sunday, September 18, 2011
Drawing with Scissors
What items would you grab out of your home if it was on fire? Did you ever play this game? (more about this topic - stay tuned!) At the top of my list are the silhouettes of my children. Maybe you remember seeing them on Photo Friday and I know you remember seeing them in the hallway near my kitchen. I love everything about the silhouette ~ clean, crisp, modern design coupled with a vintage art form. The sentimental aspect speaks for itself.
A little history for you: silhouette cutting began in 17th century France as a way for artists to entertain royalty. It was named after Etienne de Silhouette. Like many things, this art migrated to America in the 18th century. I recall reading how Abigail Adams carried the precious silhouettes of her children as she crossed the Atlantic en route to Europe. Silhouettes remain popular today, but the artists themselves are rare - maybe only fifteen in our country! True silhouette artists rely on their trained eye and "draw" using scissors..no shadow tracing is involved. There you have it.
Tricia
PS welcome back from DC sister! I look forward to hearing more about your adventure..
A little history for you: silhouette cutting began in 17th century France as a way for artists to entertain royalty. It was named after Etienne de Silhouette. Like many things, this art migrated to America in the 18th century. I recall reading how Abigail Adams carried the precious silhouettes of her children as she crossed the Atlantic en route to Europe. Silhouettes remain popular today, but the artists themselves are rare - maybe only fifteen in our country! True silhouette artists rely on their trained eye and "draw" using scissors..no shadow tracing is involved. There you have it.
Tricia
PS welcome back from DC sister! I look forward to hearing more about your adventure..
Thursday, September 15, 2011
Wednesday, September 14, 2011
DC
Greetings from Washington D.C. I'm here at The National Harbor for a work related convention. Enjoying some good programming, great dynamic women and exploring a new place. Will follow-up with info. & pictures on this planned convention / commercial area that sits on the Potomac River.
On Friday morning, I have a running date with a client of mine - wish me luck sister!
Tracy
On Friday morning, I have a running date with a client of mine - wish me luck sister!
Tracy
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
The Block
Block Island has been called "One of the last twelve great places in the Western Hemisphere." The pristine beaches, freshwater ponds, rolling hills, and breathtaking bluffs collectively create such a place. A one hour ferry ride brought us to this tiny island just miles off of the coast of Rhode Island for a summer adventure. We left our cares behind and discovered a place the locals call The Block.
As I was dashing to catch our ferry home, I made a quick stop at The Glass Onion. (see photo below) Many of the special shops and restaurants are simple shacks and sheds. I knew I would find an extra-special birthday gift for my extra-special sister in this shop. And, you know I did!
If you are searching for a place to make memories with your family ~ take the ferry to The Block and don't forget to stop by The Glass Onion.
tb
As I was dashing to catch our ferry home, I made a quick stop at The Glass Onion. (see photo below) Many of the special shops and restaurants are simple shacks and sheds. I knew I would find an extra-special birthday gift for my extra-special sister in this shop. And, you know I did!
If you are searching for a place to make memories with your family ~ take the ferry to The Block and don't forget to stop by The Glass Onion.
tb
Monday, September 12, 2011
REALITY
I know our reality is that summer has ended ... kids are back to school, homework has started. What is so exciting about that? You sister, read books. I watch TV!!!! Here is my current list of reality TV shows that I cannot live without:
1. Keeping up with the Kardashians: which one is your favorite?
2. Picker Sisters: I think you would like this show.
3. Jersey Shore: I just jumped on this band wagon and love it!
4. Dance Moms: good in many ways.
5. Say Yes to the Dress: think tears.
6. HGTV Design Star: have always been a fan.
7. Food Network Chopped: this one causes me some stress.
I think I live vicariously thru others. Tune in sister.
Tracy
Tuesdays at 10 pm/9c
on My Lifetime
Sunday, September 11, 2011
I Remember..
Ten years ago on September 11th, Grace was just two months old and Ed was somewhere in NYC on a job interview. At home, in New Jersey, I remember watching the news footage in disbelief. As the day went on, I was unable to comprehend the horror that was unfolding just miles away in the city.
My Grace will always be the same age as the anniversary of September 11th. On this tenth anniversary, my ten-year old reminded me, "Mommy, for all of the thousands of horrible stories that happened that day, there were just as many good stories of bravery and courage." Today, this is what I will remember.
Tricia
My Grace will always be the same age as the anniversary of September 11th. On this tenth anniversary, my ten-year old reminded me, "Mommy, for all of the thousands of horrible stories that happened that day, there were just as many good stories of bravery and courage." Today, this is what I will remember.
Tricia
Take a Deep Breath
Back-to-school in New Jersey went like this -->
Day 1
* Emma wants to wear a black, tulle skirt on her first day at the "big school" - nope!
* RAIN = boots, umbrellas, raincoats..help?!
* Henry immediately runs off to join a huddle of his 3rd grade "peeps" - I remain embarrassing
* Can we possibly do this for 180 days I wonder???
Day 2
* Emma appears quiet, shy, timid - tough on the outside, soft on the inside
* William gets a huge hug from his "lady friend" & tells me "I'm just visiting school."
* Printer runs out of ink before I can print giant stack of back-to-school paperwork :(
Day 3
* 5th grade drama from Grace: "Mom, NO ONE wears this type of shirt."
* My cheerful, enthusiastic "have-a-great-day-at-school voice" has become a barking, shout
* We are collectively ready for the break the weekend brings
Tricia
Day 1
* Emma wants to wear a black, tulle skirt on her first day at the "big school" - nope!
* RAIN = boots, umbrellas, raincoats..help?!
* Henry immediately runs off to join a huddle of his 3rd grade "peeps" - I remain embarrassing
* Can we possibly do this for 180 days I wonder???
Day 2
* Emma appears quiet, shy, timid - tough on the outside, soft on the inside
* William gets a huge hug from his "lady friend" & tells me "I'm just visiting school."
* Printer runs out of ink before I can print giant stack of back-to-school paperwork :(
Day 3
* 5th grade drama from Grace: "Mom, NO ONE wears this type of shirt."
* My cheerful, enthusiastic "have-a-great-day-at-school voice" has become a barking, shout
* We are collectively ready for the break the weekend brings
Tricia
"Take a deep breath and walk through the doors
it's the morning of your very first day." ~ Taylor Swift
Back-to-School Dinner
Summer seashells with "good luck" messages.
Summer seashells with "good luck" messages.
Friday, September 9, 2011
Photo Friday No. 31
Tired after the first day of preschool in
New Jersey
Loving the J.Crew ballerinas here in
Pennsylvania
Wednesday, September 7, 2011
REPORT
Hey sister, I'm glad to be back as well. I think the newsworthy story is this crazy weather we've been having ... earthquakes and hurricanes and now torrential rain for days ~ yikes! Enough said (for now).
As mentioned, my kids started school yesterday. I'm sure what I have to say is pretty much the same for everyone. But for us, Kate started kindergarten and I have a funny picture to share. For starters:
JACK: 7th grade ~ Very excited for the school year to begin. He used last year's backpack and he wore last year's clothing. I felt guilty so I went shopping yestserday over lunch (the store lines were way too long this past weekend). He is a trooper. I asked him a million questions about his day and got about one answer.
MATTHEW: 2nd grade ~ This one is my nervous nelly. And he just cannot be bothered with school. He did sit with his little sister on the bus and he knew a couple of kids in his class which helped. He always says "I don't like school" and I say "but school likes you!". And it does.
KATE: Started kindergarten!!! Very exciting. She could not wait to get there, for real. We picked out a navy blue sun dress. Found out 15 minutes before leaving the house that the shiny silver sandals do not fit! Switched quickly to hot pink sandals which barely fit. Puffy orange back-pack was ready and so was she. She declaired yesterday the best day ever. And even made up homework for herself when she got home. Love it!
And for me, I was happy because they all seemed happy. Here are some photos (take special note to the last one).
MATTHEW & KATE
(notice the umbrellas - lots of rain!)
Photo taped inside of Matthew & Kate's pencil boxes
(notice anything in this picture?)
As mentioned, my kids started school yesterday. I'm sure what I have to say is pretty much the same for everyone. But for us, Kate started kindergarten and I have a funny picture to share. For starters:
JACK: 7th grade ~ Very excited for the school year to begin. He used last year's backpack and he wore last year's clothing. I felt guilty so I went shopping yestserday over lunch (the store lines were way too long this past weekend). He is a trooper. I asked him a million questions about his day and got about one answer.
MATTHEW: 2nd grade ~ This one is my nervous nelly. And he just cannot be bothered with school. He did sit with his little sister on the bus and he knew a couple of kids in his class which helped. He always says "I don't like school" and I say "but school likes you!". And it does.
KATE: Started kindergarten!!! Very exciting. She could not wait to get there, for real. We picked out a navy blue sun dress. Found out 15 minutes before leaving the house that the shiny silver sandals do not fit! Switched quickly to hot pink sandals which barely fit. Puffy orange back-pack was ready and so was she. She declaired yesterday the best day ever. And even made up homework for herself when she got home. Love it!
And for me, I was happy because they all seemed happy. Here are some photos (take special note to the last one).
JACK
(notice it is still dark out!)
MATTHEW & KATE
Photo taped inside of Matthew & Kate's pencil boxes
Tuesday, September 6, 2011
Surprise, Surprise
Everyone loves a surprise..well, almost everyone. Imagine my surprise when I discovered me&t up and running again! Yippee! I missed me&t, but most of all, I missed the back and forth banter between two sisters, not to mention the writing and photos. And, as a double surprise, I saw me&t received a "facelift" over the summer. Honestly, I can't stop smiling. :)))
Now that we're back ~ let's get down to business. I have a summer FULL of adventures, photos, quotes, books, projects, fashion, and fun to share. Better yet, I can hardly wait to hear what the summer held for my sister. Where to begin? I will part with a photo of Block Island. It is the photo I will keep in my mind when things start to get a little busy/crazy/dicey around here as school starts.
Welcome back!!!!
Tricia
PS good luck to Kate, Matthew, and Jack as they start school today. I hope kindergarten is ready for Miss Kate & her new, puffy backpack. Go Zephyrs!
Now that we're back ~ let's get down to business. I have a summer FULL of adventures, photos, quotes, books, projects, fashion, and fun to share. Better yet, I can hardly wait to hear what the summer held for my sister. Where to begin? I will part with a photo of Block Island. It is the photo I will keep in my mind when things start to get a little busy/crazy/dicey around here as school starts.
Welcome back!!!!
Tricia
PS good luck to Kate, Matthew, and Jack as they start school today. I hope kindergarten is ready for Miss Kate & her new, puffy backpack. Go Zephyrs!
Monday, September 5, 2011
REVEAL
Welcome back my friends! me&t ended up taking the summer off mainly due to some computer problems (slow to get it fixed). We have lots to say but first, I have some unfinished business. I owe you the outcome from my patio project (refer back to my June 28th post). I was going to post a ton of pictures but I got creative. I finally attempted to make a photo book on Shutterfly. Here it is enjoy!!!
Tracy
P.S. Getting ready for school ~ first day back is tomorrow!!!
Tracy
P.S. Getting ready for school ~ first day back is tomorrow!!!