Tennis anyone?

Fundraising do's and don'ts

I am almost back.

My marathon of vendor events is nearing a close and I can't say that I am sad about it.

Last night and all day today I was selling at a church fundraiser.

It should have been profitable. We set up Saturday afternoon for an evening sale.

There was Christmas music, wine, cheese, lots of great vendors.

No one came.

We thought that maybe it was because of the two inches of snow that fell.

Today there were four services and then an afternoon concert.

We thought that maybe people would come in after every Mass and before the concert.

They didn't.

I didn't know who to feel sorry for, us vendors or the folks who worked so hard on the event.

Fundraiser Do's and Don'ts:

( pay attention those of you that do these church/school/charity fundraisers!)

DO'S

1. Although it may only take one or two high powered women to run an event, make sure EVERYONE in the organization/congregation has a job. Make one up! Anything to insure that they must walk through the door to attend the fundraiser.
2. BIG, HUGE sign in front of building as a reminder to anyone that might have forgotten the event. Flyer's in windows of local hot spots. Mass e-mail reminders day before and day of event. Announcements made in school or church/temple.
3. Create incentives to encourage customers. Tricky trays, auctions, Holiday plant pick-up, etc.
4. Have entertainment on the hour. Choirs, bands, Capella groups all love to perform. Give them a stage and their parents/ grandparents will show up and... shop.
5. Coordinate date of event to coincide with other event such as Santa's breakfast, Hanukkah week, marathon/5K, parade, etc.

DON'T

1. Do NOT rely on vendors to invite their customers, friends, and family.
2. Don't have 20 jewelry vendors and expect people to return the following year. ( good mix of vendors is a must.)
3. Don't charge people admittance and then also bother them to buy raffle tickets, expect them to shop with the vendors and have the lame bake sale be the only food available.
4. Do NOT blame the economy, because half the vendors just worked an amazing event the night before and know the real reasons ( lack of advertising, support from members, quality of vendors) why there is NO ONE at the #$%@ show!
5. Do NOT, EVER have an event in the morning WITHOUT @#$% COFFEE!!!

I feel better now.

Perspective...

without my glasses...

I would need a Kindle size phone to read text messages.

It's true.

Not just because of Tiffany's.

Key necklaces are hot right now.

But in Ireland, England, Scotland, New Zealand, and Australia they are a popular twenty-first birthday gift.

The gifting of a key or a key necklace is a twenty-first birthday tradition in those countries symbolizing freedom and independence, the ability to open new doors and accept responsibility.

I found a great source for key necklaces and will now be selling them, I'll let you know how I do!

Opportunity missed...

Oh sugar!

( you know what I really mean.)

For a day and a half I had all my children under one roof and I didn't get around to taking a picture to put on the Christmas card I am determined to send this year.

Shit. ( THAT is what I mean.)

I really want to send a photo card. It has been a couple of years and it is time. Also, people are starting to drop me from their list.

It is so true that if you stop sending cards...

you stop getting them.

So I have some schemes in my brain, tell me what you think.

1. make a collage of all their baby pictures, put little wings on them and send it out as a Christmas angels theme? ( you can only imagine how that idea was received by my...ahem...angels.)
2. take a pic of those that live here and photo shop the two other kids into the pic? ( my neighbor actually did that!)
3. Take a pic of my husband and I and just put 5 dollar signs around us? ( so appropriate for this time of year, but maybe a tad too cynical.)
4. wait until the weekend before Christmas when we will all be together, take a pic and send out cards the week of Christmas? ( will I still get cards from others, will they have any left?)

Maybe I should send a Christmas card with greetings and a plea to NOT be dropped from their lists because I really like getting photo cards even though I am too lazy to send them.

( they can keep the brag/Christmas letters though)

Photo above is from http://awkwardfamilyphotos.com/

Do not walk, RUN to...

...see this movie!

To you and yours...

New "green" product! Snacktaxis

Snacktaxis are reusable bags for snacks and sandwiches that come in tons of fun designs. They are used as you would use Ziploc bags, but these can be thrown in the dishwasher when they need to be cleaned.

Here is the link to their site: http://www.snacktaxi.com/

I plan on selling them when I am out on the road vending, I think they fit in with the lines I carry.

I am all about functionally pretty.

below are some of the designs I have ordered.

BEE-autiful!

Beautiful bags...

Will have next spring...

No matter what!

Happy Birthday Mom!

Dear Mom,

I hope you are having a wonderful day, an awesome birthday.

Thank you for everything you do for us and for always being there.

I love you so much and can't wait to see you next month.

I now realize that I need to take more pictures of you whether you allow it or not.

This picture is the best, recent picture I could find. ( from Karen)

My apologies to Dad, Beth, and Kathy.

Didn't want to leave you out, but this was the best pic of Mom and it is all about her today!

A Christmas Carol, Mr Magoo vs. Jim Carrey

Went to A Christmas Carol last night.

Imax 3D. Paid $5 extra for that.

Not really worth it.

I think it was $3 extra for regular 3D.

At first I was enchanted.

I thought it was going to be like Polar Express,

magical.

It wasn't.

Then I thought maybe it would be like Mr. Magoo's Christmas Carol,

unforgettable.

It wasn't.

Then I thought we should have seen New Moon.

We didn't. The line was too long and too many girls said the two boys I was with.

Now I think I will look for my DVD of Mr. Magoo's A Christmas Carol.

Mr. Magoo wins every time.

Me likey.

This Christmas card appeals to me on so many different levels.

www.elfster.com

Just wanted to remind you about:

www.elfster.com

And you know why?

Because if you are like us, you get together with family and friends the weekend of Thanksgiving and invariably "the gift exchange discussion" takes place.

It's best to come with a plan, cause everybody has an opinion and the discussion can last way too long...

Check out elfster and then you will be able to end the conversation quickly.

Oh, and it's free by the way.

Good advice.

setting- That (stupid) Real Housewives of NJ event I was a vendor at.

conversation- Gay guy who does make -up for Chanel at Saks and me, (vendor bored out of her mind not selling anything because all the Carmella Soprano look-a-likes aren't into pink and green!!)

Me- " I don't really wear a lot of make-up. What is the one thing you recommend I buy, other than surgery, to look younger and better?"

He looks at me long and hard. ( that is a bad sentence!)

Guy- "lipstick honey."

And you know what?

I have been wearing it ever since.

And you know what else?

Everyone is noticing AND complimenting me... a lot.

#1. Who knew? I should have done this awhile ago. When my kids were babies I stopped wearing lipstick because I love smooching babies and there would have been lipstick all over them!

#2. Mr. gay guy is my new guru. I plan on hunting him down and asking him what his second recommendation would be.

What if he says surgery??!

#3 Get yourself some lipstick!

Preppy Rides

What is the definition of a preppy vehicle?

To me it is a car or truck that IS classic, elegant, well made.

NOT showy, flashy, or ostentatious.

What is the illustration of a preppy vehicle?

Well, my old rides will do!

The last sweet Saab we owned, 1993

Our first Saab was a white 1988 900.

We. Loved. This. Car.

What do you nominate as a preppy ride?

I have plans!

Not just for my garden either.
These topiary would look amazing in my front garden with clematis or ivy.
Same with these garden gates.
They are all free standing. I saw someone use topiary and gates very similar to these as display at an event and...

I am inspired!

Can't you just see the topiary bedecked with grosgrain ribbon bows or pearl earrings?

The possibilities are limitless :)

Somehow I missed this...

I haven't been interviewed in awhile so I hadn't remembered to keep on the lookout for this piece (a bit dramatic) by Diane Mapes,

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/32765018/ns/health-diet_and_nutrition/

What's your pleasure?

And why?

Please comment and share... even if you haven't before.

Don't be shy now.

Oakleys

The half jackets are calling my name...

The pink might be a little much though.

Turn the page...

turn the page

to stop thinking about or dealing with something When a patient dies, a doctor just has to turn the page and concentrate on the next patient.

This meaning of that phrase is so true for me.

We've had a "situation" in my husband's family for a few years now that could not be avoided.

Nothing to do with us, but everything to do with us.

Without a lot of detail, we hadn't seen my brother-in-law in 3 1/2 years. At first there was no explanation for his disappearance... and then 6 months into his absence there was a lot of information, none good.

We eventually told our children the absolute minimum and went on with life.

But, this guy was missed, he was a big part of our family. No one spoke about it at big family gatherings, but our immediate family discussed it plenty. My husband and I wondered if his sister was separated, divorcing, etc. We really didn't know.

Eventually we gave up trying to figure it out. The obvious thing to do would be to just ask her...

But my husband's family doesn't talk about things like that... at all.

Anyway, good news.

He is back in the fold.

She has forgiven him and they have worked it out.

We are happy for them.

We forgive him and support him...

And now we can turn the page.

Christmas request... sounds easy. Not.

I love my twenty year-old daughter, she is my right hand. She rarely asks for anything so when it is Christmas time I try to get her most of what is on her list, although I have set a budget so that all my children have realistic lists.

She had already submitted the Christmas list for 2009,

I thought.

Then I received this email- ( sorry my girl if you're reading this I had to share)

MOTHER,

I have thought of other Christmas gifts if my budget has yet to be fulfilled..

-black blazer (no shoulder pads obviiiouslyyyyy) a couple girls have them here and they look adorable as like a going out over a tank to the bar type thing

-Tan sperry's..I ordered blue and white ones two months ago but they were too small so I had to send them back/have yet to so I might as well wait for christmas at this point..Actually before I send them back do you want them? I have up to a year to return them anyways.. They're an eight, If not i'll just send them back..

OKAYYYY love you : )

First off,

Interesting, a blazer... to wear to... a bar.

She is twenty.

I guess she isn't even bothering to pretend.

As if I didn't know anyway.

But the clincher is a black blazer.

I need more details!

See below. Don't all those blazers look alike, just different models?

They're four different blazers!! And that's just J Crew.

Which of these do you like if you were going to a bar underage and might end up in jail?

Which would look best behind bars? ( as in prison)

And, do I really want her reject Sperry's that she is obviously NOT bringing back cause it sounds like it might be too late or she lost the receipt or something?

I love my girl.

Facebook opportunity...

We can all agree that one of the best things about Facebook is finding long, lost friends.

How about enemies?

Trust me. This isn't negative.

Some people have a "bucket list," a list of all the things they want to do before they die.

Not me.

I have an "apology list."

I'm not a part of a twelve step ( or is it ten step? ) program. I just know that there are certain people that I would like to apologise to before I die.

Or should I say before they die?

Yes, unfortunately one of my friends from my childhood/teens/twenties who I had drifted apart from and had always assumed that I would reconnect with... passed on.

This happened about two years ago and I have such regret that we weren't able to meet so that I could forgive her for past transgressions and more importantly, ask for forgiveness for my past actions.

Well, the top person on my apology list is my first college roommate. I will preface this story with the fact that I came from a strict, (almost controlling,) household regarding cleaning. We had a lot of chores and every Saturday all of us sisters did the equivalent of what would be considered Spring cleaning.

Every Saturday. Right Frau?

Anyway, I get to college and I feel so free. No cleaning, no responsibility other than my schoolwork.

My boyfriend slept over a lot, I left dishes in the sink, I left garbage on the counter, I left lights on, doors unlocked...

I could go on and on.

And my roommate could not stand me!

Can you blame her?

I did.

I thought she was a total #@%& and a nag and couldn't believe how uptight and rigid she was.

Of course I didn't see how inconsiderate and rude I was.

In fact, I don't think I saw it clearly until I was a mother and looked back to my college days more objectively. And then as my children began to go off to school I was horrified.

What if they ended up with a roommate... like me?!!!

So, over the years I would tell them how bad I had been and how ashamed I am for having behaved that way so many years ago, telling them to make sure they are considerate and tolerant.

And now because of facebook I have found that poor girl that suffered for an entire year with me as a roommate from hell.

I haven't contacted her yet.

But I plan on "friending" her this week. Of course there will have to be a message accompanying the request, otherwise I doubt she would accept me as her "friend."

The message will be,

"Hi Katy, it's Patty from freshman year at (blank college) I want you to know that I am so sorry for being the worst roommate ever. I really am ashamed about how I behaved back then and hope you will forgive me."

I already feel better!

Crockpot time!

Not just because it's dark out earlier.

Not just because the winter chill is beginning to settle in.

Not because of that amazing smell when you come in the door...

Mostly, because it is now basketball season and if I don't get the crockpot humming by 8am we're not eating dinner until 9pm!

Let the games begin!

Boxwood crazy...

Oh yes I am!

I love box wood, but am very particular as to how it is used. I love it when it is used almost as a lawn as I have seen in New Orleans.
My ideal use of boxwood is as a low, trim hedge defining a garden as in this pic.
This garden is either a boxwood dream or nightmare...
Although I can appreciate this tall hedge, I like it tidy- so this wouldn't do.

Do you have a particular plant, bush or hedge that you like? Most of us have out favorite flowers but I think plants like ivy or shrubs like burning bush can really define your garden.

Do you agree?

More silverware caddies... to die for!

I received a few emails asking about these babies! They don't have to be just for silverware...

This would be lovely in a bathroom or on a desk...
Can't you see this as a catch all on a dresser or bureau?
This belongs in my preppy bathroom?
Can't you see this on your holiday buffet?

$35 folks.

Shipping is probably $3-$4

French Heraldic Bee hostess items

My top selling hostess gifts are the items shown below and the design, French Heraldic Bee, is the best selling design of these items and i think you can see why.

It is elegant and matches every decor. Appropriate for the holidays or for any elegant table or bar.

The wine coaster prevents a ring of moisture on any tablecloth or surface.
The utensil caddy makes buffet organized and dazzling.
And the beverage bucket?

Needed.

Surprised? Pea Coat Reveal

J. Crew- $255.
Polo $450.
LL Bean $199.

It seems that most of you liked the J. Crew coat and assumed it was the most expensive. I love the J. Crew coat and am happy that it is a reasonable $255.

The Polo was the least favorite and the most expensive.

I was pleasantly surprised with the styling of the LL Bean and was a bit surprised that it was so close in price to the J. Crew coat.

As usual, J. Crew wins with me and it seems with you too!

Elizabeth lambert, bad sportsmanship personified.

Wow, doesn't she look like she is so nice?

Not quite. At all.

Check out this ESPN link to see the worst case of sportsmanship I have ever seen:

http://sports.espn.go.com/ncaa/news/story?id=4629837

In case you can't describe what you see on this link here is a word and definition that does,

reprehensible - bringing or deserving severe rebuke or censure; "a criminal waste of talent"; "a deplorable act of violence";

condemnable, criminal, deplorable, vicious

wrong - contrary to conscience or morality or law

Enough said.

Best Pea Coat...

It's time for the annual "best Pea Coat" post. So who makes the best Pea Coat this winter?

You decide!

Is it this beauty? #1
How about this? #2
Or is it this? #3

All are wool and classics.

Please let me know which one you think is the best and also try to guess the manufacturers/price.

Can you guess which is:

$425.

$255.

$199.

Let me know!

visual aides needed for... vision!

So, I worked an event all day yesterday and it was great. What wasn't great was that I couldn't find my glasses after the first hour. This was especially frustrating because the town I was working in ( Scarsdale, NY) has the craziest sales tax ever!

7.375%

Not 7% or 8%,

7.375%

I could not do this in my head and had to use a calculator that I could not see. The light was dim where I was situated and my calculator was a small one.

I really needed one like this with extra large numbers.
It's not like I am blind, but I have to say I was really squinting all day and would have paid for glasses had they been available and maybe even for the old lady magnifiers shown above!

How do you do it?

Thanksgiving is one of my favorite holidays, a time of togetherness.

But, it can also be a time of stress and conflict and that all can start early in the month.

Why?

Because this is when the phone calls and emails begin regarding...

Where. We. Will. Go.

Now, if you have ironclad, traditional "over the woods and through the snow" type plans every year, you can stop reading. ( unless you like knowing about other people's misery)

For us, it changes yearly. It usually works out fine and we always have great thanksgivings, it's the time leading up to Thanksgiving that isn't so great.

If my kids had their way we would always host. Then they could make an appearance and then slink off to their computers, TV, bed. If we go to another home they have to actually interact and socialize the ENTIRE time.

If my husband had his way we would host and have both our families and their inlaws, he's nice like that.

I'm not.

I like doing it with my family and my extended family. My sisters and my mother all pitch in until the end. it is a no hassle relaxing Thanksgiving, even if I'm the host.

But, I know it isn't all about ME.

And then there is the food issues. My family does a traditional, european style, sit down dinner. My husband's family throws in some ethnic dishes and it is always buffet.

So, that is why we have endless discussions about what we all would like to do for Thanksgiving.

what do you do?

Are you my husband and try to make everyone happy?

Are you my kids and try to barely have a thanksgiving?

Are you me, kinda selfish and want it my own way?

Brine Lax Wall- buyer beware

Do you have a Brine Lax Wall in your yard, just over a year old that is already ripped and shredded?

You are not alone.

A lot of people are talking about it and they are not happy.

I gave a call to the Warrior owned Brine headquarters

( actually both owned by New Balance) today to see what's up.

Apparently you sillies should not leave it outdoors...

Hmmm, ok.

That's right, it should be brought indoors when not in use to protect it from the elements.

Gee, it's kinda heavy.

Well, alright- at least there is a warranty.

Oops. Just for one year though.

Cale, a nice guy from customer service, assured me that Brine is aware of the problem and that there will now be a replacement wall that you can attach to your existing frame.

But it won't be available until June, possibly later.

So beware or be aware that if you buy the Brine Lax Wall, count on dragging it in and out of the garage or shed after EVERY use or you could end up with a shredded wall before the season is even over!

Italian Cookies= I have a problem

Fortunately we live in the NY area which most likely has as high of a concentration of Italians as does Italy.

With that comes amazing food and of course, baked goods.

This is where it becomes unfortunate... for me.

I have a problem. I have NEVER met a cookie I didn't like and it is near impossible for me to ever have just one.

Especially Italian cookies.

I consider cannolies a cookie, especially the mini's. Luckily the richness of the creme deters me from having too many.

Ah, the Italian Christmas cookies... they are like bread. I could easily consume a dozen of these,

REALLY.
The knot cookies are basically the same.
And the lemon ricotta cookies?

Heaven. Pure heaven.

In case you were wondering...

Bungalow scout bags? Lunch time!

Bungalow Scout Bags, Lunch.

You need?

I've got!

Email me.

Looking for the perfect teacher gift?

Can't beat the price point or the functionality! $14
Co-worker Secret Santa gift and the theme is Eco/green?

No more brown paper bags in the landfill! $14

Need a lightweight, washable, sturdy tote for your eats?

And it's pretty too! $14

Star pillow

Yes, a star pillow! One of the many hooked wool pillows I will be selling in the next few weeks.

The quality is amazing and the price is right.

$69 for 18' wool front/ velvet back w/zipper pillows.

I predict I sell out.

Secret Santa=Elfster

Are you thinking about the holidays yet? (hope so!)

Do you or your kids take part in Secret Santa gift giving?

(If you aren't familiar with Secret Santa, it is an organized group gift exchange when you don't know who your gift giver is.)

If you need help in this area I have a web site for you!

It takes five minutes and takes OUT the hassle of organization and your Santa's might actually stay Secret. My cousin Kelly's husband, Peter Imburg ( a techie), developed this program and web site after hearing the troubles Kelly and his sister were having trying to organize a family gift exchange.

Click on the link below to check it out!

http://www.elfster.com/

Victoire de Castellane and my daughter...

File this under, kind of interesting.

Ten years ago my daughter was a model with the Ford modeling agency. Because we refused to take her out of school she worked sporadically, but always booked very interesting jobs.

This was because she was considered to have an exotic, European look. She had black, thick eyebrows and pin-straight blond hair almost down to her waist. She liked modeling, but I think she mostly liked having time with me, without her four siblings.

One of the most interesting jobs she did was a jewelry fashion show for the Dior jewelry designer, Victoire de Castellane. It was to raise money for the Boys Club of New York and was held at The Rainbow Room in NYC.

The crowd was a mix of fashion insiders, high society, and New York movers and shakers. The event kicked off the New York social season.

My daughter and nineteen other little girls/models were dressed in adorable white eyelet nightgowns and then bedecked in jewels. The premise of the show was that a couple was going out for the evening and that their little girls were having a slumber party and while they were gone they went into the mother's jewelry box and tried on the jewels.

It started with them kissing the little girls goodbye and as soon as the door closed with a chorus of sweet little goodbyes from the girls... the girls rush with a mass of giggles to a beautiful jewelry box spotlit. ( really most of the girls already had them on.) Then the girls walked among the tables speaking to the guests and giggling with one another. To me, it was a mix of a production of a Midsummers Night Dream and Annie. It was beautifully done.

Before the show there were meetings to determine which girls wore what. Victoire de Castellane met with each girl and personally decided what she would wear. In our meeting I was impressed with how much time she took to decide what would be right for my daughter. She asked her many questions and was quite friendly.

Even then, I don't think I understood that the jewels the girls would be wearing were real jewels...REAL JEWELS!

As in, there were body guards for the girls the entire show.

WOW.

I knew that the girls were wearing important, one of a kind, original pieces and that they were worth a lot of money... I just didn't realize HOW much money.

I also didn't realize HOW one of a kind the jewelry was until a few months after the show and I began to see the "one of a kind" necklace my daughter wore turn up in Vogue... and on Hilary Swank! I often wonder who ended up with that beautiful, emerald and diamond necklace worth hundreds of thousands of dollars.

But I, and now you know who wore it first!

ski-in ski-out rental property at Copper Mountain, Colorado

I know I have written about the amazing ski-in ski-out rental property at Copper Mountain, Colorado.

But I don't think you know... that they have already received a foot of snow!!!

In fact here is a press release:

Copper Mountain, CO - With a foot of fresh snow this week, Colorado's Copper Mountain ski resort is scheduled to open for the winter season on Friday, Nov. 6, with top to bottom skiing and riding and Lift Off, Copper’s 5th annual opening weekend festival.

I am so psyched! What a great start to a (hopefully) terrific ski season. So please do not forget to check out this rental property at Timber Valley. I highly recommend it :)

Oh, and if you want to check out the snow, click on the link below and catch the "Copper Cam!"

http://copper2008.coppermountaintimbersedge.com/

Cabbage Night Extortion

The night before Halloween in Northern NJ is called many things.

In our town most call it Cabbage Night.

All the kids in town go out after dark and create mischief. Most of it is harmless and you really can't get mad. My kids used to wait in our bushes and try to catch whomever would dare attempt to toilet paper our house or soap our cars. I have been known to point a hose at a large group of mischief makers. ( all in fun, really!)

And I am quite positive that my children have papered houses and wrote with shaving cream on neighbors sidewalks. We do draw the line on eggs, too destructive. We made them travel in a group and they had a curfew.

I have to report that this year may be different. I found the note below taped to my door last night.

I am wondering if I should be concerned or give Andrew (whoever he is) props for taking advantage of the opportunity.

Are you picturing what I am?

A mini Tony Soprano, who for a certain amount of money ($5) will protect us from mischief and mayhem?

Or a cute boy with garbage bags, sponges and mops cleaning up the next morning?

Remember, we live in Northern NJ folks...

platform tennis et moi

Platform tennis,( paddle), is a passion of mine.

Ina asked me what have I been up to as she hasn't read any mention of tennis or paddle in my blog.

How could that be? Considering that I am playing 4-5 times a week... I think I don't write about it much because most people do not even know what paddle is.

So I think I will just write about paddle and how it relates to me. ( it's all about me!)

Here it goes.

First you should know that I like to play competitively and I like to win. If I don't win I don't sulk and I'm not in a bad mood the rest of the day. I turn the page.

But, if I do win?

I am very pleasant to be around.

I play on an inter club team, B level. ( some day I'll be an A! The teams start at E)

And I play on a state team. We travel around the state playing other clubs and then we have lunch. I play on series 7 and 9. We started on 13.

For me the game serves as a good workout, good exercise, and provides a social life with great women who like to compete and be out doors during the winter.

That's right, it's an outdoors, WINTER sport.

Freezing cold?

Sleet, snow, ice?

We're out there and half the time we are in shirt sleeves as you work up a sweat playing this game.

My paddle partner and I also play in tournaments. We just played in a fundraiser over in NY this week. It was at Fox Meadow, seen below.

Fox Meadow is a beautiful, old club where the game originated. The people are so nice and it was a pleasure to play there.

Unfortunately... we had to play in the pouring rain... ALL DAY!!!!

And, the tournament wasn't run very well or very organized.

Another problem?

The food was terrible. It was disappointing. Thank God the paddle was good.

The club shown above.
This drawing is found in many a paddle club.

Very vintage. it's from back in the day when the men and women would play in sweaters, chinos, and Keds.

Now we all wear Nike black exercise pants, tennis shoes and tees.

Let me know if you have ever played :)

Happy Birthday Frau!

I hope I am the first person in the United States to wish you a Happy Birthday!

And maybe Germany?

Alles gute zum Geburtstag!

Love you my dear sister. I think this will be your best year yet!

Please head over and wish the frau a Happy birthday on October 30th and tell her that her favorite sister sent you, (self-proclaimed.)

http://fraukmwest.blogspot.com/

I can't resist!

My friend Susan sent me this, I love it!

Although I think of myself as a liberal Republican/conservative Democrat aka nonpartisan, my husband leans severely towards the Republican side.

If I were to show him this? I think he would think it illustrates his idea of how democrats work!

Thanks Susan!

Fleur de lis

Brought a bunch of these back. 

Not only are they meaningful, ( symbol of New Orleans since Katrina), they are very functional and some would say... necessary!

I think they will be the perfect hostess gifts during the holidays. The perfect addition to the gift closet.

ACME OYSTER HOUSE, New Orleans

Well, I'm home.

The highlight of my trip? ( other than time away with hubby)

ACME OYSTER HOUSE

As I wrote that... my mouth started watering! 

Seriously. We went there twice. 

There is always a wait and it is always worth it. Not only is the service great, the atmosphere amazing, and the prices right...

It's all about the OYSTERS!!!

You should know that months ending in the letter "r" are the best time to eat oysters.

I am here to tell  you that October is just fine.

We had the char grilled oysters by the dozens. They are char grilled in the shell with butter, a little garlic and  Parmesan cheese. So, SO good. The gumbo was excellent as was the soft shell crab. 

However, all around us and everywhere you looked?

OYSTERS, shucked and eaten raw or chargrilled. My slice of heaven!

Charles in Charge?

And we're off!

This is my children's new "daddy" for 4 days...

In the past I would have been afraid. Very afraid.

But my husband and I feel like he has come into his own, very responsible, conservative, mature.

This was confirmed when I told my fifteen year-old daughter that we were leaving big brother in charge.

Her reaction?

"Oh no! He's not going to let us do anything!"

If you only knew how ironic that was :)

New Orleans, Laissez les bon temps rouler!

I'm not there yet!

But I will be. We're leaving on Saturday morning for a four day break, business for hubby, pleasure for me.

New Orleans is one of our favorite places. 

Our son went to school there for,

 ahem ...cough..cough.. five years, so we know it well. 

We have lots of traditions, places we eat at at or go to- each and every time. We also try new restaurants and adventures each time we go.

So here's the plan!
This time we are staying in "the quarter" as the french quarter is referred to locally.
Don't worry though, we will make it uptown too.
We are not renting a car this time and will make due with street cars as our mode of transportation.
First day? definitely head down to Cafe du Monde,
For this!
And I'm sure we will cross the street to Jackson Square to finish our coffee and for a  walk around.
Then, how about uptown for early cocktails at The Columns. You might remember that this is where we had a graduation party for our son.
Or- we could go to the Monkey Hill Bar and say hi for our sonny boy. He used to work there.
Big plan? Dinner at Jacques-Imo's is something we have tried to do for years, the wait is horrific. I say we give it a try.

We might return to a famous courtyard restaurant, Court of Two Sisters. Brunch is a favorite there- although expensive.
A good meal and great margaritas, ( not expensive) can be had at The Superior Grill
In five years we have never gone to The Camellia Grill... I think it's time we gave it a try.
Cafe Degas is recommended by many.  The brunch menu is unique, it's on the "try" list.
Of course shopping on Magazine St. is a MUST. I always come back with an antique or a dress. New Orleans is crazy like that. It will be sad not to have my shopping companions ( Beck and Kev) with me. My husband would rather skip this tradition.
I definitely will take a carriage ride. We do every time and it never gets old. It is well worth the money. I learn something new every time as each driver has his or her own take on the "quarter." They all like to show you Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie's mansion. Except, it's a different one every time. New Orleans is crazy like that!
We have done many things in New Orleans, but never one of the cemetery tours.

 It's time!

I know it seems weird, but everyone is buried above ground in New Orleans due to hurricanes and flooding. You can imagine a washed away cemetery can't you?

So the cemeteries are beautiful mini cities of the dead. The statuary and architecture of the mausoleums are amazing and as morbid as it sounds- I want to see them!

I'm crazy like that!
One thing I don't want to tell my family is that our favorite breakfast place closed last spring. Bummer.

The Bluebird Cafe survived Katrina and was one of the few restaurants opened the months following the storm. 

So I will let you know what we do and what we eat and drink as that is the best part of New Orleans... oh and the music and the people too!

Sixty-five roses

Betcha didn't know that sixty-five roses is an easy way to teach a child how to say, cystic fibrosis.

I didn't either.

I learned that today from reading our good family friend, Somer Love's blog.

Somer was diagnosed with CF as a toddler and somewhat miraculously just celebrated her 30th birthday.

You didn't know? I guess you didn't see the two billboards in Salt Lake City celebrating that fact!

 ( Somer is one popular girl!)

Years ago, most people with CF did not even make it out of their teens. Thanks to research and science people like Somer are living longer and longer, Thank God.

Somer is contributing to the cause by selling the necklace pictured above, 65 of them to be precise. The story of the necklace and the ways and means to get one are located at her magnificent blog, http://lovetobreathe.blogspot.com/2009/10/making-impact-now.html

I suggest you visit her blog, you'll be glad you did!

Halloween hair redux

I posted this last year around this time, consider this vintage!

To get this "hair raising" look it is very simple. Get an empty water bottle, hold it on the top of your head and then bring all you hair up around the bottle and secure with a pony tail holder. Obviously the longer the hair- the better, sorry boys!

Becky has used this "look" for Halloween and Crazy Hair Day at school many, many, times.

people can never figure it out and it is so easy. let me know if you try it!

The all powerful ENVIRONMENTAL CLUB!!!

So, today was Walk to School Day.

Something I agree with wholeheartedly... in theory.

We live about a half mile from our middle school and it is a very pleasant walk and today would have been no exception as it was a quintessential, Indian summer day.

However, My carpool of two thirteen year-old boys play on the school soccer team. This means in addition to their 50lb backpacks, filled with every book they need, they lug a large duffel filled with soccer stuff making a walk to school... impossible.

My self and the other mother put the kibosh on the walk much to the dismay of the two boys. As I drove them to school I thought  smilingly to myself, "how nice that they are so concerned for the environment, trying to do their part." I was really proud of them. 

They really seemed concerned and bothered that they had to be driven to school...

This should have been a red flag.

As we neared the school, I see them whispering to each other and peering ahead. All of a sudden they both yell, "STOP!"

I'm like, "What is the matter?"

In unison, " the Environmental Club is up there, we have to hurry!!" In my naivete I'm thinking that maybe they are running to join them and help out...

Oh no. they were actually trying to hurry and run away from the all powerful club before they were spotted exiting my car.

Too late.

Busted.

The club spotted them and came running over to confront the natural energy consumers, ( my car pool.)

You should have heard the excuses, the blame (on their mothers), and the apologies.

If you want to scare your kids or get them to do something?

I suggest the Environmental Club, they kick ass.

Jack Wills...protest!

Jack Wills, Brit preppy outfitter. I'm a big fan.

However... please tell me what warrants this lovely scarf to be priced at,

$298.!!!!!!

I am STILL scarf crazy!!

But rugby stripes are calling my name!
Very unisex, no?

nail polish- which are you?

Are you buffed? 

If so,  you are most likely conservative, practical, and efficient.
Do you prefer neutral colors?

If so, you may be the type to play it "safe."  Not a big risk-taker. 
Do you like bold colors, long nails? You are confident and like attention. You may be a wee bit self conscious.
Black nails? You could be the adventurous type. You may like to keep up on trends, feel "young."
These nails? You are out to shock or impress... you may live in another country or culture.

I hope.

My favorite, new product and why!

Fingerless gloves are crazy popular and I'm selling them.

Why?

Because they are PERFECT for texting!

And, if you have any type phone that needs the warmth of a finger- normal gloves do not work

As for that Mennonite lady who passed me, I think she should get a pair.

image from http://blog.crowncombo.com

What more could happen?

Ode to a Lacrosse Tournament

Spent all day packing my truck,

was running late without any luck.

Got on the road, the rain was pelting,

3 and 1/2 hours white knuckle driving.

Thinking about all the money I'd make,

seeing vendor friends as sweet as cake.

One half hour before I see my hotel,

I get a bad call on my fricking cell.

Tournament canceled.

Lame poem for a lame tourney weekend.  

Of course I bought a lot of cool stuff that I couldn't wait to debut.

And, I had to pay for my hotel. So, I slept over and made the 4 hour drive BACK home this morning.

Folks, this has NOT been a good week.

Upside?

 No Jersey housewives in that part of Maryland. 

Although a Mennonite lady aggressively passed me in her little Honda Accord. I thought they didn't drive cars, just horses...

How it was...

The good:

1. Great DJ
   
2. festive atmosphere
3. topnotch vendors, from as far away as Delaware!
4. passed hor d'oeuvres and wine flowing all night.
5. Huge, huge crowd of "shoppers."
6. did some great shopping for Christmas!

The bad:

1. Too many vendors for the amount of space
2. not organized regarding set-up, very chaotic.
3. Shoppers weren't actually shopping much...
4. Too high of a vendor fee considering the amount of space for each vendor.
5. Food, other than the cheese and fruit was TERRIBLE!
6. I spent too much money.

The ugly:

Besides my mood?

1. Barely covered my fee.
2. My "preppy" table couldn't have been more foreign to this demographic.
3. The Jersey girl look ( high, high heels, tight, tight, jeans, gaudy everything, too much hair and make-up) does NOT fly if you are over 30. ( personally I don't think it EVER flies.)
4. I didn't recognize ONE person from my area which explains the lack of interest in preppy anything.
5. Listening to true jersey accents all night, my ears still hurt!
6. Feeling snobby, not a way I like to be. I was actually eye rolling all night- I never do that!!!!

The skinny:

Basically all the people that showed up were there to see Theresa and Jacqueline, ( the Jersey Housewives) to eat and drink, hang out.  

90% of the "shoppers" looked like mini me versions of any of the women on the show. If you watch that show you have an idea of why I barely sold anything.

NOT a pink and green crowd... at all.

As for the housewives, their "people" set up their booths and the housewives showed up an hour into the event. They seemed very nice, took pictures with people all evening while their minions worked their booth. Theresa's daughter, Gia?, was there and was very tiny and cute. That's all the dirt I have on them :)

So even though this event was held in the most preppy of towns, Ridgewood, NJ ( they refer to themselves as "The village of Ridgewood!) the crowd that attended was as far away from preppy as you could ever imagine.

I did not belong there.

Lesson learned.

SASSY SHOP GIRL EVENTS!!!

Say it three times fast! Sassy Shop Girl Events is producing a fundraiser in Ridgewood, NJ on Thursday night, October 15th. As I've mentioned before, I will be a vendor at this event and it is for a very good cause, http://www.preventchildabusenj.org/

This gal will be a vendor there...
And so will she!

I hope they don't get mad at me when I sell so much more than them!

Thanks to the frau!

My darling sister, The Frau over at http://fraukmwest.blogspot.com/ gave me some type of award that I'm sure I don't deserve which included this one word meme. 

This came in handy as my posting has been spotty. Please feel free to cut and paste and try it yourself- not that easy!

1. Where is your cell phone? purse

2. Your hair? dyed

3. Your mother? Irish

4. Your father? mutt

5. Your favorite food? sushi

6. Your dream last night? none

7.Your favorite drink? coffee

8. Your dream/goal? Dream: peace - Goal: health

9. What room are you in? Office

10. Your hobby? Blogging!

11. Your fear? heights

12. Where do you want to be in 6 years? Beach

13. Where were you last night? Mt. Fuji

14. Something that you aren't? patient

15. Muffins? bran

16. Wish list item? KITCHEN!!!!

17. Where did you grow up? college

18. Last thing you did? shower

19. What are you wearing? sweats

20. Your TV? off

21. Your pet? heaven

22. Friends? valued

23. Your life? grateful

24. Your mood? Good!

25. Missing someone? always

26. Vehicle? old

27. Something you're not wearing? bra

28. Your favorite store? Nordstrom

29. Your favorite color? Green

30. When was the last time you laughed? morning

31. Last time you cried? commercial

32. Your best friend? funny

33. One place that I go to over and over? NYC

34. One person who emails me regularly? partner

35. Favorite place to eat?  home

 I really enjoyed that!

Autumn Street Fair

Left at 6:30 this morning for the last street fair ( for me) of 2009.

I am grateful because this year was too darn rainy and I am constantly checking the weather reports.

I am sad because they are such a pleasant environment to work. I meet lots of great people, make good bucks, and I love to be outside. (especially during good weather!)

I was able to,spend the day with my younger daughter. She is working off all the $$$ I have put towards the gazillion Sweet Sixteen dresses, shoes, gifts, etc. She did such a good job and was a real good sport so she made some money too :)

All in all?

A great day.

I love my job. Most of the time...

Where the Wild Things Are!

Is anyone else looking forward to seeing one of the most popular and beloved children's literary classics brought to life in a film debuting on October 16th?

Copper Mountain Vacation, ski-in – ski-out

It's time to start planning!

If you are looking for a Copper Mountain Vacation, ski in- ski out, I know the place for you and I highly recommend it. The Timber Creek Condominium Complex is where most people who ski Copper want to stay.

Timbers Edge, are two premium units in a prime location owned by the same group of folks.

One unit, Moose lodge is what people think of when they think staying mountainside. Can't you just picture the apres de ski fun? Lots of room for card games, football game viewing, eating, drinking all by a roaring fire.
The second unit called, Bear lodge, offers some of the same amenities and all of the charm.

Please visit, http://copper2008.coppermountaintimbersedge.com/ for more info.

And let me know if you decide to visit :)

Where have I been?

This is the longest I have gone without posting!

Why?

I have been a busy bee. But aren't we all at this time of the year?
And this kid, one of the loves of my life, just turned thirteen.

Wow.

I have been grappling with this because as of his birthday I am no longer the mother of "children."  All of my kids are now teenagers or older...

It's really hard to believe.

Apple picking accomplished

Or is it accomplished apple picking? I think our gang did a beautiful job.
My husband, the three Musketeers and I set out Sunday morning to get us some apples!
We drove an hour north along the Hudson river, up in New York State.

 ( that's what people say around here to differentiate from NYC. Sounds kind of silly when you say it with other states. Like, I don't say I'm going down to Maryland state...)

It was a beautiful morning and a lovely drive. Although there was a big cleanup once we reached our destination. I think it was Aramis or perhaps Athos who vomited all over the backseat as we entered the parking lot.  He felt fine and after we rinsed out the car we went picking!
For some reason the bees are not bad this year because normally Sept/Oct. we are inundated, especially with fruit all over the ground!
You can't even guess that one of these Musketeers had just vomited ALL over, can you?

Not one bit.
And thank goodness because the tractor ride over to the fields was one bumpy journey!

This pumpkin patch had us laughing as it is just a bunch of pumpkins placed in a field. there were no vines.  We imagined that the people that come in from NYC to get a dose of country now think that this is how pumpkins actually grow.
Nothing like a tractor ride on a beautiful autumn day- 

Pashmina!

It's Pashmina time!

Seriously, I feel like Linus with his blanket. I go everywhere with one. 

Why?

Because I am ALWAYS cold. ( Not the norm for a person during the "m" years)

Also they finish any outfit.

Other reasons,

MUCH nicer than the airplane blanket, (do they ever really wash those?)

Great to throw over head as you leave hair salon, doesn't it always seem to rain the day of a blowout?

Makes even a Gap t-shirt look grand.

Perfect for Fall transition to winter.

I get them wholesale at AMAZING prices.

And... there are so many to choose from!

Plain is fine too!

Bib necklaces...

Were you wondering about Bib Necklaces?

Because I was.

I started carrying them this summer when one of my suppliers assured me that I NEEDED to sell them. 

I wasn't sure how they would do or who would wear them...

Well,  high-waisted dresses are perfect for them.

 Think sweet sixteens.

Bib necklaces can dress up any dress. They sell at Nordstrom for $48. 

I sell them for $30.

Bib necklaces are funky and fun for us "non-sweet sixteens" as well.

I wear mine with a  crisp, black button down shirt, jeans, and heels...

and I actually feel... cool.

Trend alert!!!

Old school baby!

Yes, desert boots are back.

Picture this,

Clarks sand colored desert boots, old washed out jeans, belt, beige cashmere v-neck tucked in with a crisp, white Hanes t-shirt underneath....

Add your favorite cologne.

What do you have?

My favorite outfit on any man of any age. He'll smell good too.

Remember, DESERT BOOTS- you heard it here.

Sophie's Choice...

OK, it isn't that drastic!

But, I must choose between two of my children nonetheless.

The Saboteur has a game ( first school game of his career) at 4:15 at home and his older sis ( JV) has a game at 4:15 about 20 minutes away....

No-brainer. Home field always wins!! ( Unless it is county or state playoffs, then they trump)

In regard to friends and parties,

 During the holidays we are often double or triple booked for parties ( we aren't THAT popular, just seems like everyone picks the same night!) 

We use to try to attend all as we hated to say no ( when you're  not THAT popular you can't afford to say no)

Invariably someone was always upset with us, for leaving early or coming late. 

Eventually we decided that first invite wins. 

Not always easy and I can't say there haven't been exceptions

Do you have to make these type decisions? 

And how do your children or friends take it?

Joya- soy candles

Joya soy candles may solve my problem.

 Soy candles still put off soot but far less than paraffin.

I found this line at the Gift show and will most likely carry it in the Spring.

I think this particular lacy design is so pretty. 

I think a bunch of them spread over a table at Halloween would be beautiful!

Scout Bags- The Weekender

Scout Bags are my biggest seller and The Weekender has become the "hot" bag of the season, perfect for sleepovers or weekend sojourns.

I recommend it for all overseas travelers as it weighs nothing and can be folded and stored in luggage to be used while touring, LOVE it!

These two designs are new and my current favorites.

Cost- $36 Shipping $4     Total- $40

fundraiser- Girls Night Out Shopping Event!

Pre-holiday "Girl's Night Out" Shopping Extravaganza with Teresa & Jacqueline from the Real Housewives of New Jersey

Time:5:00PM Thursday, October 15th

Location:Ridgewood Woman's Club

Ridgewood, NJ

 

Ladies, leave the men and kids at home and come out and join the Sassy Shop Girls, The Real Housewives of New Jersey and over 40 designers, boutiques and crafters exhibiting the latest Fall/Winter 2009 styles. A night of wine, music and shopping, shopping and shopping!

Goodie bags for the 1st 100 guests. Start your holiday shopping with us with exhibitors selling, handmade jewelry, handbags, women and children clothing, spa treatments, stationary, home decor, holiday gift items and so much more all at a great price.

Portion of ticket proceeds will go to Prevent Child Abuse New Jersey.

Well folks, it should be interesting! I think it is a good cause and well worth trying.

 The housewives of NJ? We will see about that...

If you live near by and want to attend, please contact me for tickets. 

It is $15 pre-sale and $20 at the door.

And remember you will be able to meet ME and the NJ housewives!!!!

Big Whoop, right?

Just remember it is a good cause, there will be plenty of wine, hors' devours, goodie bags AND shopping!!!!

http://www.preventchildabusenj.org/      

Candle Damage!

Most of you know I have an early evening ritual.

I pour myself a glass of red wine, turn on music or TV, light a candle and make dinner.

Not every night, but many nights.

For years.

So recently I was more than shocked to see what the soot of a candle can do...

The entire area of the kitchen that I would light my Yankee candles is... disgusting.

I had no idea that a candle could do so much damage until I took down all the prints that had lined the upper wall.

Has this happened to you? And how could I not have noticed?

It's official!

Fall is here!

Golden...

I am leaning towards gold this Fall/Winter.

How about the Tiffany 14 karat gold ball earrings?

Me thinks they average about $500 a pair.

Pass.

I will be on the look out for "tiffany style" gold ball earrings without any guilt or reservations.

I will let you know when I find them.

I always share :)

Tis the season!

My business has certain slow periods.

August to the beginning of September

and

January to the beginning of March

At the beginning of August I am grateful for the slowdown,

 no...relieved. 

After months of events, tournaments and street fairs it is good to have the time off.

But invariably, by late August I start to get anxious- even as  holiday contracts start to arrive and I know I am set for Nov. and Dec.  

So I start canvassing for gigs and worrying about September and October. And although that is a busy time for my web business and our personal life- as in the kid's games, autumn parties and BBQs,

 I ALWAYS think I NEED to be working.

Only, this is what happens, every time.

Out of the blue the phone calls come in, new contracts arrive, new requests. All of a sudden I am booked solidly for all of September and October!

Now I have a different kind of stress.  As in, 

HOW AM I GOING TO DO THIS!!!

The silly part is... this is what ALWAYS happens.

I could do without the  August worry of economic failure and would rather deal with the stress of having TOO much work. 

That, I can figure out.

Next project...

Not my house, 

but it will be my lamp post with a lovely street number sign.

It is a bit pricey but I think it will change the look of our front of the house.

Do you like it?

Infinity or circle?

OK, I saw these at the accessory show last Spring and...

I thought they were the dumbest thing I had ever seen. 

It reminded me of the kids that had the Velcro shoes because they couldn't or wouldn't tie their shoes. Are these for people that can't be bothered to tie a scarf?

Now I see them all over the place! 

The scarves shown above are from Bloomingdales. I hope I don't break down and start carrying them. Most retailers call them Infinity scarves or Circle Scarves.

I call them Lazy Loops.

Jack Wills- picks for Fall

Jack Wills has a nice fall/winter line, but nothing unique or original.

EXCEPT for these beauties!

I love them. I think they are perfect for school and you won't see everyone else carrying them.

Why?

Most likely due to the price, $189.00 ( YIKES!)

I still love them though.

Shipping is free if that helps :)

JACK WILLS

Ski season soon...

                                                          Becky and I at Alta, Utah

Time for the Ski Season checklist:

I know I'm pushing it and I am not trying to rush fall, my favorite season, but I am here to tell you that it's time to get ready.

Start thinking about any trips you might want to take and book now. This is the time of year you are guaranteed to secure flights, hotels, and condos- you can always cancel.

Bring your skis in to be tuned and waxed.

Inspect ALL equipment and make sure it is up to par.

Do you or your family need new ski clothes? This is the best time to buy as all the newest and best goes early. Put it away and give as gifts at Christmas.

If you live near a hill or resort, buy season pass now- there are usually early bird discounts.

This is the year to finally buy a helmet, if you don't already have one.

Be a good example for your kids, wear a helmet. Helmets are warm and protect you from errant snowboards careening down the hill or poles falling from chairlifts.

WEAR ONE!

Some of you may remember that I teach skiing at a tiny hill in NJ. I also spend quite a bit of time skiing in Utah where my family lives, two extremes. In both places I've seen helmets save lives.

Enough lecturing :) Any questions regarding skiing send them my way- I love to share!

Old Mother Hubbard...

Yup, that's me.

Or, that's what I feel like.

You see ever since my husband went thru his midlife crisis, (crazy, organic, all natural, no processed foods) We buy A LOT of nuts, beans, meal, flax seed, whole grain everything

 ( all natural/organic)

And,  these type foods tend to bring "friends"with them, BECAUSE of course no pesticides are used.

The telltale sign is the flutter, flutter of moth wings...

 and then the manic searching of the cupboards begins.

 I can never hold back the scream when I find the little worms moving about whatever food they came in on.

 This time it was chopped walnuts.

So begins the washing down of cupboards and the throwing away of all food in them. I keep them bare for a few days to make sure that they are rid of "new friends." The women who helps me clean said that in Poland they keep bay leaves in their cupboards and flour to keep the moths away. 

I might have to get some bay leaves...

And I better get some new food, our cupboards are bare!

Soccer Gifts

This time of year we start thinking of soccer gifts- end of the season team gifts and coach gifts.

The best place to go for all of the above for soccer gifts is BACKYARDARTLLC.COM

We watch a lot of soccer. Our daughter plays on the high school team and our son plays on the school and club team. It helps to break up the routine of weekend yard work and errands.

We also get to see friends and neighbors on the sidelines, standing  with one eye on our players while we catch up on town news.

I'm not sure what I appreciate more, the pleasure of watching my children play a healthy sport that they love or my effortless  sideline social life...

I repeat, it's all about scarves!

  THIS FALL- Scarves!!!

Seriously folks,  don't resist it.

 It's good for you, I mean your wallet, as scarves instantly update your wardrobe in a very economical way. What I like is that you can be boho, preppy, nautical, trendy, you name it depending on the style of the scarf.

I am now selling this style, perfect for my teenager. I had her wear it to school where it was an instant hit. ( poor girl, as my muse she is required to model many items I sell)
This pashmina is more my style. I sell these too. Perfect with a black turtleneck, jeans and black boots. I feel so put together and comfortable too, especially in the freezing cold frozen foods aisle at the grocery store!

So, remember my advice- get some scarves!

Thursday Question.

Because I am curious or call me nosy, here is my question:

At what age did you feel the most beautiful or feel that you looked your best?

My answer is in comments... where I hope to see yours!

lafayette women's lacrosse Fall Ball 2009

Looks like the first Lafayette women's lacrosse first fall ball tourney is:

Sep. 26	11:00 am	Rutgers, Lehigh, Lafayette	New Brunswick, NJ

Fall Ball, love it.

Why?

It isn't freezing cold like the regular "spring" season.

The excitement of the team with the new players is awesome.

Meeting the parents of freshman is always great.

We get to see the girls play teams that we normally wouldn't such as,

RUTGERS!!!!

Last ever first day of school pics!

The only other mother? The playground aide.
For 22 years I have taken first day of school pics, the traditional on the front lawn and then the group shots on the playground or outside the school.

Little by little I was told, 'no more."  My oldest was in 6th grade and begged me not to step foot on school property, 

( I think it was because I was pregnant and had a toddler in hand making it obvious to all his friends that his parents had sex ) 

I listened to him because I had a 2nd grader at the other school, Buh By....

My girls were fine with me taking pictures by 6th grade but at that point I had a little guy up at the other school. And, you know  about my photo saboteur-even at a young age there was never enough pictures to pose for.

Times have not changed. As we were crossing the street, I realized, Wow, he is going into 7th... maybe I shouldn't be here. So I asked him if he minded if I still take pics on the playground. He said, "no worries Mom, Mrs. Treimanis will be there (mother of triplets) and some of the new kids moms will probably be there."

Well, I was uncomfortable. 

I was the only mom!

 I looked like that pathetic, older mother whose last baby is in 7th grade and who is refusing to let him go/grow up! I was really self conscious, which is not like me.

But, my son?

Didn't bother him a bit. In fact he kept calling me over to make sure I got this friend or that friend in a photo. I hope I'm like him when I grow up because as of now I am sure I will not be the ONLY mom on the playground next year. AWKWARD!

Back to school night... as in plural

So I was at Back to School Night this evening. 

And although I do think it is important to go- my children love to hear the feedback on their classrooms and teachers, the teachers like to see the parents, I like to attach names to faces and see what the coming year is all about, and our school does a great job...  

(See chart above, all points followed by our district.)

I did find myself bored to tears. I felt like a caged animal and we only met with each teacher for nine minutes! But then I got to thinking.

Hmmm... How many back to school nights have I been to?

Well, counting nursery school and kindergarten for each child of mine...

70 Back to School Nights!!!!

No wonder I felt locked in one big Deja vu.

( image from the site of Gary S. Stager)

Bento Box lunch

Even if you are not a big Japanese food fan, you have to appreciate the Bento Box Lunch concept.

A little bit of this and a little bit of that. None of the foods touching each other, something most five year-olds would dig! 

I do too.

I love Japanese food and the thing I love most about Bento box is that there is always representation from all food groups. That it is always a colorful, healthy meal is a big plus too.

Are you a fan?

Visiting NYC? Nolita

My new  favorite NYC neighborhood for shopping?

Nolita! ( North of little Italy)

After brunch last weekend we left the Bowery walking northwest and came upon the most charming of neighborhoods. I'm not sure if the price of clothes in the little boutiques that dotted the neighborhood were so reasonable because of the proximity to Orchard and Hester Streets, ( the old garment manufacturing district) or because there are so many that they have to be competitive...

All I know is I picked up two darling, unique frocks for my daughter at $30 each!!!!

check out this neighborhood if you get a chance.

Oudin's Tennis Shoes!

Found these images of Melanie Oudin's tennis shoes...

Even though I am a tennis attire purist I am LOVING these shoes!

hope to have them soon on:

www.backyardartllc.com

Great tennis today! US OPEN

US OPEN- Maria Sharapova and Melanie Oudin

I like going to the US Open if we have great seats or are in a box with bathroom, food, and drinks.

Sorry, I like it VIP style!  

So, today I am watching the Open at home on the big screen and I am loving it. Not only is the tennis great, (I should say not only is Melanie Oudin great), but I am totally distracted by their fashion.

I LOVE Sharapova's dress! Young, fresh, sporty, flattering and  appropriate. let's face it, whatever she wears looks good...until I try it on :)

Although I think that Oudin's top and tennis skirt are better left on the practice court, I am really loving her shoes. The media are calling them "odd" and "different" I think they are refreshing and PERFECT for the seventeen year-old girl that she is.

As of the third set they appeared evenly matched, however I predict the young Oudin will walk away with the win.

 Sharapova's game is rife with errors and her body language and demeanor tell me she will lose this match... 

Yikes! 21 double faults as of the third set! Is that some kind of record?

Our American- Melanie Oudin won!!!!

I will post the pics of the Sharapova's dress and Oudin's shoes as soon as they become available.

Blogger question!

Are you ever solicited by retailers ( in my case preppy retailers) to post about products or sales?

I am and I can tell some fellow bloggers are as well, ( I see the ad I was solicited with in their post.)

I have to say it bothers me a bit. I do like to post about products I actually use, love, admire, notice...

I don't like being used by manufacturers or businesses to shill their products when they aren't even sure if I am aware of said products.

 Even if they did the right thing and sent me a sample or wrote a personal email (rather than the usual "preppy style" form email with 30 other names on the mailing list) I would feel duplicitous  and manipulative in regard to the people that read my blog.

I am not holier than thou. If an amazing product came to my attention and I actually liked it, after receiving a sample of course, I would promote it! 

Until then, when I receive unsolicited requests to promote products...

I will hit- delete.

What do you think?

Wordless wednesday, (aka lazy me)

memories of late 70's.

You?

VERY Sperry!

Have you noticed? 

Most college kids are wearing Sperry Top-siders. 

 I predict a trickle down affect and that by Spring you will see the high school crowd wearing them too. 

It isn't just the kids. The NYC fashionistas are sporting them too, especially the guys.

At the urban outfitters in the NY area, they are the footwear of choice. The hot pink pair above is part of a hot colored line developed with the uber fashionable boutique, Jeffery's, in NYC.
These grey, suede beauties are perfect for my guys.
YOU know I need these.
These denim and blue patent top-siders would look so cute with the new denim leggings and a polo or starched white button-down.

If you are starting to think of Christmas gifts these might be something interesting to put under the tree... they might not even know they want them.

Yet.

An open letter to J. CREW...

Dear J. CREW,

First off, I want you to know that I will always love you. 

This isn't about you and me. Our relationship is intact. 

 Since I have known you for a long time, I feel confident that I can be real with you and tell you what's going on.

You have always been my go-to for everything.

Once again, it isn't just about me. 

Although I can always, ALWAYS count on you for the men in my life and there isn't a time that I can't find something for myself or a friend, I have to say...

You've let me down.

I should say you've let my daughters down, down HARD!

Why have you abandoned your 14 to 20 year-old demographic?

Where and when is my 16 year-old going to wear... 

pretty much anything out on the floor this season?

How and why would my 20 year-old college student spend...

 way too much money on items of clothing that are WAY too dressy for college life?

( and trust me, she goes to a very preppy school that you WERE perfect for!)

My daughter and I just spent too many hours at one of the most profitable malls

 ( think Paramus, NJ) in the country searching for the perfect back to school outfit. I fought the crowds in Aeropostle, Hollister, and Charlotte Ruse, 

( my skin was crawling.) 

Finally, FINALLY I was able to talk my soon to be sophomore in high school into visiting my favorite place-

J.CREW

And it was-

 empty. 

No one was there.  

Even JC Penny had more back-to-schoolers than you!

How is that possible?

My daughter humored me and said a couple of 

"this is cute" and  'I might wear that" 

before we finally left with..

nothing.

Please, please go back to your roots. 

Classic, preppy, sporty clothing.

I beg you.

Love always,

preppyplayer

The big Climb

Forgot to post these pics of our lighthouse climb.

Yup. To the top. VERY high.

Overcast day on LBI?

Go for it.

We did!

Happy New Year! (kinda)

So, I feel as though I am ready to get organized.

I recently commented on another blog that I think Jewish people have it right-

The new year begins in September!

Seriously, I become so energized at this time of the year. The kids get new school clothes and school supplies, their new schedules begin.

And I have big chunks of time during the day to accomplish all those projects I have back-burnered all Summer long.

The days become cooler, the humidity lowers...

Yes folks, this is my time of the year!

Rainy day remedy

If you live in the Northeast and are home on this rainy day, 

(thanks to Hurricane Dan) 

If you are bored and don't want to-

clean the cupboards

leave the house on errands

do anything but surf the net...

here is a link to the portfolio of one of our favorite photographers

Click here

Make sure you have your audio on because the music is awesome.

A perfect antidote to a rainy day.

Tell me if you LOVE it!

Wow! Latisse...

Pretty amazing. Except for this little caveat-

" The manufacturer also warns that 3 to 4 percent of users will have eye itching, irritation, or redness or a darkening of the skin around the eye. And if all that weren't enough, you could experience hair growth around your eyes if you accidentally smear Latisse on areas beyond your eyelashes."

Bringing my girl back to school!

Well, it's been a great summer and this kid  brought a lot of fun to it. We are going to miss her!

Although thanks to Fall lacrosse we will see her many weekends.

Here is a Summer of 2009 tribute to our girl.

We love her TOO much!

Jack Wills, end of Summer Sale!

Jack Wills, Brit prep.

You know I am a huge fan and I am happy to report that not only are they having an awesome sale right now...

But, I just found out that shipping is free... always!

To me, Jack Wills is a breath of fresh air. I think the items below would transition from summer to fall really well. 

I think my daughters would flip for the sweats and button down.

 I think I need the pea coat (love the length of it) and I MUST have these shoes.

Head over to Jack Wills and see what you need...

http://www.jackwills.com/