Copycat Creation

So, my sister, Dana, is incredibly talented in the home decorating, photography and crafting arenas. I'm jealous! My boss' wife is having a baby, and I wanted to give them something fun, so I copied one of Dana's latest projects. Here's how it turned out. Good thing you can't see the stitching up close...apparently I never learned how to sew in a straight line. I just told them to remember it was sewn with love!

Chi Town

Chicago is hands down my favorite city that I've visited so far. There's just something about the combination of the architecture, the Magnificent Mile, and non-stop eating that really appeals to me! Call me crazy! Christin, my sister, had never been, and I jumped on the wagon to go with her. Within 5 minutes of arriving, Andre, the homeless man who lives under the bridge was asking us to buy he and his family Popeye's for dinner. He showed his appreciation for her $5 donation by screaming at her, "Girl, you got it goin' on." I'd never actually been approached by a homeless man in Chicago before, but Christin quickly informed me that she's a magnet for it. At that point, I knew I was in for a good trip.

We visited the Field Museum. Christin was going to see the "Man-Eaters of Tsavo" (The Ghost & The Darkness), with or without me. Mission accomplished! The Field Museum is also home to Sue, the largest T-Rex ever found. Her skull, weighing in at 600 pounds, was too heavy to mount with the skeleton, so it is encased upstairs in the museum. We saw Jersey Boys. Incredible! We did a lot of walking, resulting in stops at many a shoe store in search of comfort. I'm here to tell you that my feet have NEVER hurt so bad in my life. A small sacrifice and probably a good laugh for a few people watching us limp in pain! I'll say that where flip flops fail in fashion, they make up for through blister comfort. We were caught in a few rainstorms, which was honestly one of the funnest things. And...we did A LOT of eating. "Cheezeborgers" at the famous Billy Goat Tavern, Gino's East for the deep dish pie, and Gibson's Steakhouse were favorites. Thanks, Chicago, for another great time! Can't wait to go back!

5 Year Olds Rule the House

I honestly CANNOT believe it....my baby is 5!

It really is amazing how time flies. We've made it through kindergarten orientation, which you would have thought was a trip to Disneyland judging on the excitement factor! I can't imagine what the first day of school is going to be like. It makes me sad, but at the same time, it's so fun to see her little personality (and attitude, which she has a lot of) growing every day. For her birthday, she chose to take a few friends to see the Hannah Montana movie.

Just seeing the smile on her face throughout the whole movie was so much fun! Now, it's just getting used to hearing, "Mom, I can do that by myself, I'm 5 you know!" I'm afraid I'm going to be hearing that a lot more now. Happy Birthday, Addison!

Fun That Never Gets Old

I'm sure there are things that you do that never get old. 'Tis the season. Easter candy....Robin Eggs....do you see where I'm going with this? Who doesn't like blue lipstick every now and then?

Second, taking random, crazy pictures. This is a favorite past-time of Christin's. She is always armed with a camera to capture that extra-special moment. Not really a very "becoming" photo of either of us, (quite the contrary, in fact) but definitely worth the laughter that ensued for a good 10 minutes and again each time we look at it. Pretty sure it brought a smile to your face too!

Wednesday Gem

Today I had the choice opportunity of having the "annual visit." Too much information probably, but after this gem, you'll thank me. Before my appointment, I needed to use the bathroom. Pre-jitters. I asked the receptionist if there was a restroom I could use, she sent me to the hall. I was not prepared for what I saw next. I wouldn't believe it, if I didn't snap the picture myself.

Okay, so now you've read it. Now think about it. Let it all sink in. It must actually "be" a problem. Otherwise, why would such a sign be necessary? Gross! Disclaimer: No part of my body actually touched the toilet seat! I double washed my hand too.

Big Weekend

It was an event filled weekend for our family! Friday Jessica graduated with her master esthetician's license from the Skin Science Institute! Woo Hoo! We are so proud of her and her determination! In all honesty, all prejudice aside, she gives the BEST facial I've ever had. And I'm not just saying that! You should have her schedule you in some time for one. She really does a great job and we know she has a bright future ahead of her! Great job, Jess!

Second big event, THE PROM! The afternoon was filled with primping and pampering by Sam's fashionista and style consultant/make-up artist, Aunt Christin, to get ready for the big event. (you probably read about her in an earlier post) Samantha looked AMAZING! Very Cinderella like. She will definitely turn some heads tonight! In fact, I think Addison summed it up best by saying (as soon as they left, of course), "I bet they kiss tonight!"

Aboard the Ruby Princess

As promised, here's the cruise news, or maybe the "Princess Patter" as it was referred to on board. In January we took a 7-day cruise aboard the Ruby Princess. The ship was brand new; only it's 4th voyage, which was very nice. The maiden voyage was home to Ryan & Trista (The Bachelor) renewing their vows, so right from the start you knew it would be something special! (Just kidding!) It was HUGE holding approximately 3,500 passengers and 1,100 crew members. We went with our friends that we go with every year and as always, we had SO much fun. There is NEVER a lack of laughter! Our ports included Jamaica. Hated it! You know when there's a special letter from the captain warning you of the dangers there and to only ride in taxis with red license plates, there may be a problem. Our next stop was the Grand Cayman. We went to Seven Mile Beach and had a great beach day. It was here that we saw one of our favorite sites. Orange County Choppers, anyone? No, he's not wearing a sweater.

Our next stop was Cozumel. We went to a little beachside bar called the Three Amigos. They did a lot of dancing and formed a line around the place for free tequila shots. They couldn't figure out why we didn't participate. Great chips & salsa and nachos! Well worth the trip!

My personal favorite was the private beach, Princess Cays. We snorkeled on an amazing reef, saw tons of fish, and the water there was UNBELIEVABLE! The whole day was perfect. No one begging to braid your hair, or selling crap really made in China. Just a beautiful, quiet day! Sun shining, palm trees swaying, postcard perfect Can't wait to go again!