Bella Pink Cafe

Fabulous Lunch Date...

     On Friday, Mom & I drove to Sarasota (about 20 minutes from Venice) to have lunch with Fifi  (editor and writer extraordinare!) It was so nice to finally meet her in person. In the past, we’ve talked on the phone and emailed a lot, but to be able to finally give each other hugs and kisses, eat food, tell stories and have lots of laughs was fantastic She is an absolute doll, so down to earth, extremely funny and we instantly connected and I know Mom did too. Our lunch date made me love Fifi even more. She is fabulous in every way. I think she is now my sister, since my mom said she is going to adopt her.

     On the way home we drove though Casey Key. Can you say mansions? Oh god, the houses are unbelievable! I love Venice though. It’s so charming and the stores are really wonderful. Lots of little cafés to sit and have wine outside and people watch.  The next day we went to the beach and then had a lovely dinner with Susie & Mark at an outdoor restaurant. Great food and even more laughs. We’ll be sad to leave Venice and the new friends we made. Back to reality soon!~xo

Venice Beach:

Here is Mark, the cutie

Susie, Mark and me at dinner (Mom won't get her photo taken..ever!)

Live from Venice...

      

     Sorry for the delay, I had a hard time finding an internet connection. Mom and I arrived safely in Venice on Wednesday! (and to sunny 85 degree weather!) I was able to bump our seats up to first class which is always cool but has anyone noticed they cut back on the "special" treatment!? Certainly not like that famous ‘Seinfeld’ episode. Seats are still extra wide and comfy though. Anyway, the car rental place had a brand new convertible waiting for us, we jumped in and off we went to the cottage! 

     Sounds easy, but somehow we managed to get lost on the way. Mom knows her way around Venice pretty well, but the road we were looking for to the cottage was really hard to see and we must have passed it at least 5 times before we saw it. Total tourists, riding in a convertible, our hair blowing like Thelma & Louise and horns beeping at us.

     We pulled up to the cottage and saw the cutest man waiting for us. There was Mark Holt (from the infamous Susie & Mark Holt!) He was there with open arms to show us in (Susie was at the store working) Walking into the cottage was like stepping into your favorite issue of Romantic Country. Every little detail is completely amazing. I’ll take you on a tour...(*Warning:  LOTS of photos ahead!)

 

     Thursday we went into town to visit Susie & Mark at their store The Cat's Meow Inc  in it’s new location. Seriously people, I was weak in the knees when we first walked in. The store swallows you up with a cozy airy feel, chic sofas, tables, vintage chandeliers abound. I was in awe. Their old store was one block over and I had been in there about 3 or 4 years ago, but the new store is bigger and better than ever! It was packed with people walking around, they seemed to be in awe like me and Mom. It was very busy with customers, phones ringing, etc.. There was Susie, calm an unfazed by the distractions and greeted us with big hugs and a soft sweet smile. We took a tour and then Susie and I sat and gabbed and giggled for a while. I even showed Susie how to leave a comment on Fifi’s blog. Susie is so busy in the store, she hasn’t learned the blog ropes yet!

     Thursday night, Mom & I were invited to the Holt’s home next door for drinks. It was so relaxing and lovely. Their home is a dream. All white, big comfy slipcovered furniture, tall hutches, mirrors and chandeliers everywhere. Susie & Mark’s signature style throughout with salvaged doors replacing standard builder grade doors. What an awesome idea!? We had such a nice time talking and laughing until late into the night. They are the most gracious hosts and I’m honored to now call them dear friends. Mom & I found them to be genuine people who love what they do...yet work very hard at what they do. Their Cat’s Meow start up story over 11 years ago is amazing! They are the real deal, shop owners who are living their passion and enjoying life. Big things are coming soon in their future!  I hope to sneak back into their home and take some shots for you, but here is Susie & I at the store.

Me & Susie at the store

 

  Today, mom & I are off to meet miss fabulous Fifi  in Sarasota for lunch. I’ll be back to report with photos and details!~xo

i Heart You...

     Happy Valentine's Day! Just a quick *pop* post to say I hope you have a wonderful day and possibly receive something from your secret admirer?  This time last year, we went to this ultra fabulous Valentine party, I posted about it here  I wish I could get the pictures to enlarge on the original post, (back then I wasn't sure how to size them!)  The photos above were taken there, such an elegant and fun Valentine themed party!

     It's soooo cold here!  There was an ice storm that roared through here the past few days.. felt like pellets hitting me when I was walking to the mailbox.  Large ice balls falling from the sky.  Speaking of ice...we are going ice skating this weekend!  Little man wants to video tape it...perhaps a good shot of Mom falling on her butt?  We'll see and hopefully you all can see too!  Oh! thank you so much for your sweet wishes and great advice on the back issue.  It's really appreciated, not sure what I'll be doing, but I'll keep you posted.  Have any of you heard of Cabi parties?  It's sort of a demonstration... but with clothes! My friend is hosting one and she asked me to help model, hopefully I won't trip...I'm not used to walking in heels! I went to one last year and it was really fun and the clothes are super cute!

     Have a wonderful day! ~ xo

The Birthday Month...

   Since I wasn't able to attend the fabulous glitter fest at Silver Bella this year, I decided to at least bring some of it to my home here at Casa Bella!  I ordered this super cute project kit from Jenny .  This caught my eye because it looked simple ish and I thought it would be fun to hang up this entire month of January to celebrate the gazillion birthdays in our family.  At last count there are 16 birthdays to celebrate, including our son and my Dad on the same day! (January 15th to be exact)

     My little project turned out semi-ok but not really,"wish I had Jenny here to instruct me in person" kind of a way ..It came with precise instructions (even telling me when to have a snack!)  However, this student obviously did not pay attention... I put WAY too much antiquing glaze on, the sequins are uneven and I definitely have to work on those darn air bubbles!  So frustrating. Anyway, for all the January birthdays out there, this banner's for you (over-antiqued, crooked sequins, air bubbles and all, hey, I gave it my best shot)!~xo

He sees you when you're sleeping...

Wishing you all a magical Christmas filled with sparkle, love and laughter.

Santa Baby...

     What a difference a year makes?  Cranky, tired and crying (SO sorry Mom!) at age 2.  Cut to a year later...the crybaby is calm, cool, and just chillin with Santa at age 3!  Looking at these photos I can see my daughter (especially in the "ugly cry"..lol)  Isn't it a weird feeling to look at old photos of yourself and see your babies eyes looking back at you? ~xo

Santa and The City...

    Santa had no idea what he was in for with this crew!  My 3 best friends and I hiked our butts to a crowded mall (you know how I love the mall?..not) But I love my friends and will do it for them.  It's our yearly Christmas tradition of shopping, dinner and drinks and a picture with Santa.  We have done this since we were young (the drink thing was added after we turned 21, of course) I can't explain how embarrased my friend Rachel was (she is the blonde standing behind me) so grumpy, saying "we are too old for this"....just then the girl behind the camera shook a teddy bear with jingle bells, saying "Smile girls!" as if she were talking to toddlers, trying to get the perfect shot for their mom & dad... needless to say we cracked up and "SNAP" this picture was taken!  My friend Gina thinks she smelled liquor on Santa, perhaps his hot chocolate was spiked with something?  We ate at the Cheescake Factory, love this place...great food and ambience, and yes! they serve way more than just cheesecake! lol...I had the fried macaroni & cheese balls... unbelievable, really!  So many laughs when I am with these girls and countless insane moments, (my weak bladder sometimes gives out)...my 3 best friends since grade school, through thick and thin, in sickness and in health, for richer or poorer, til death do us part....love them to pieces!

Victorian Friend with Style...

    One of my best friends, Gina, has a beautiful Victorian her and her husband painstakingly restored.  Love her style.  So cozy and romantic I thought I would share some quick shots.  The home dates back to the 1800's and has 3 levels.  Lots of nooks and crannies.  They built a carriage house to match the main house and also have a garden shed.  I hope to give you more peeks inside soon!  The picture to the right was taken at our other best friend's wedding rehearsal dinner way back in 1996, the one I mentioned here.  Although now that I look at the picture, it looks like we are dressed for a funeral all in black!  I think I was about 4 months preggers with little man and feeling nauseous and trying to cover my baby bump with black.  The day of the wedding, as bridesmaids, we all wore white, it was really beautiful!  I met Gina, my dark Italian friend, in "Espanol" class when we were 13.  The irony of it all... she is a Spanish teacher herself now.  Crazy cool ! 

Hannah meets a bank robber...

     Interesting title?  The picture above has nothing to do with it, but the kids have officially picked their Halloween costumes yesterday...our girl will be Hannah Montana (along with half the girls in her class!) and little man picked out a creepy mask that makes him look like a bank robber, so that is the title he gave his costume.  His mask has an eyeball poking out, and he came up with a story on the ride home that the security guard at the bank he was robbing poked out his eye while he was running out with the cash.  What can I say?  He's 10.  He has a wild imagination, no football player get up or an ordinary bum costume will do for him.  At Halloween, for him, it's all about gore, gruesome, scary, but most of all *fun*.

     Busy weekend, so first up...thank you to Dawn at The Feathered Nest for giving a sneak peek on her blog of Romantic Homes December issue and my Holiday Blogging column!  Looks like it's a really pretty issue.  Some of our blogger friends have exciting news to report (I can't reveal, but hopefuly they will on their own blogs soon!)  Ms. Babette ( aka Barbara Jacksier) is in California working on her mystery project (better known as the TMP).  Ladies... this is an exciting project and you will LOVE IT!  She has her new laptop with her and able to blog "live from the scene" 

    Exciting things happening around here too at Casa Bella..but can't share just yet...I hate teasers, but please bare with me...let's just say I am humbled and honored and you will soon know why! I took a break from work and we managed to squeeze in TWO trips to the flea market this weekend. YAY!  Lots of new goodies will be posted in the boutique this week, probably on Tuesday.  Love the thrill of finding a great vintage piece and knowing it will go to a good home, my customers are the best and we found a lot of beauties this weekend.

    Also helped my Mom pack for her early morning flight for a golf tournament that she is playing in (Mom is an avid golfer and once played with Michael Douglas!- great story for another post).  She will be gone an entire week with her friends in Myrtle Beach.  Did I mention that my Dad had a full knee replacement 3 weeks ago?  He has lost almost 30 pounds!  Good grief! My sister and I are in charge of his 'care' while Mom is away...first order of business is fattening him up.  He has made tremendous progress with his recovery and is now walking with a cane, so Mom doesn't feel too guilty leaving him for a week (Although, I think she considers this more of a vacation from being his nurse!)  Poor Dad, he is having cravings like a pregnant woman...all he wants is chocolate raisins and sherbet.  He's completely lost his appetite, so it will take us a while to get that weight back on.  Any suggestions are appreciated...I'm thinking milkshakes and McDonalds?, but I know that is NOT healthy! lol...Mom wanted me to say a big "HELLO" to the bloggers in South Carolina, she is coming to town with her golf mafia!

Pick Your Own...

     We went pumpkin picking with my best friend and her kids over the weekend.  (The one I mentioned here in a life circle moment)  We go every year to our favorite farm, up the street.  Just grab a wagon and let the kids pile up the pumpkins.  They have so much fun running around the farm looking for the perfect ones

This is me and my best friend trying to look cool with our new friend "Jack"

and hopefully our daughters will stay as close as we did over the years.  We have two more friends not pictured here, but I'll post about them later.  We have all been best friends since we were 12. We have such a special relationship, it's incredible to keep your childhood friends.  They know you so well...you can give them a certain look or even the tone in your voice...they somehow know exactly what you are thinking or feeling.  We have been through every boyfriend (and break-up), every crisis at elementary, middle and high school.. then college... been a bridesmaid on each wedding day, attended family events, celebrated every birth and consoled each other through death.  Always there to lend an ear, advice, a smile or a tissue.  She was there that day on the escalator with me when Rhett Butler was waiting at the bottom (and said "Oh... My... God...", like the annoying Janice girl from the TV show 'Friends' !)  So many laughs, so many memories, we hope our girls see how special a childhood friendship can be.   I have a feeling they may already know...

12 years...

     ....and two kids later!  Tomorrow, October 7th, is our 12th wedding anniversary.  We have 37 more years to go to catch up to my Mom & Dad!  I love weddings, don't you?  That's me up there in my gown.  I picked October because it's my favorite month here in Bucks County PA.  Imagine falling leaves, pumpkins, crisp air.  Ok, now hold onto that thought and then picture this:  cold, dreary and raining on my wedding day.  WHAA!

    12 years have went so fast.  We met when I was just 15 at our high school...he was a junior, I was a sophomore.  It was after school and I had just finished cheerleading practice, and went to the snack shop, the wrestling squad was working the stand *UGH*.  But there was a cutie behind the stand....I placed my order, cookies and a Pepsi (nice, huh?)  The cutie, with his dark Italian skin and hair, said to me "You have the bluest eyes I have ever seen"...  that was his pick up line, I guess. I giggled nervously with my girlfriends, I mean a junior was flirting with me! After that, I would see him around school and driving his red mustang in the parking lot, he would stare at me and I just melted.  We dated the next year and then broke up for 4 years!  I ran into him at the mall (of all places, I hate the mall) he was by himself picking up a tux for a friend's wedding, I was with my friend.  I came down the escalator engrossed in conversation with her, and there he was standing at the bottom, waiting... he already spotted me before I saw him.  I happened to glance down and he was leaning on the rail just looking up at me, like Rhett Butler did to Scarlett in that famous scene from Gone With The Wind.  We went out for dinner that night and got engaged 3 years later.  He is a alot like my Dad , charismatic, gentle, kind and strong at the same time, a wonderful husband and father to our babies.  A girl always marries someone like their Daddy, don't they?  I know I did and feel so blessed. I hope our girl does the same. 37 more years, here we come!~ xo

From driving a red mustang without a care in the world, to becoming a father of two:

 

Maybe it's time...

     We lost our beloved doggie one year ago (August 27th to be exact) he was 14 years old.  That's him up there in the sun. That's how I like to remember him.  The kids have just recently started asking for a new pup, which I often find strange.  After he died, they never asked.  We were all so devastated , but I thought the kids would start asking right away, for which I was prepared to tell them that we needed to wait a little bit.  I never had to have that conversation. I guess they were still grieving for our Cody and knew in their hearts that he could never be replaced so quickly.  So many nights after Cody died, little man cried himself to sleep as I held him.  He was so close to Cody, they were buddies.  It's hard to explain any death to children, let alone a pet that they played with, were comforted by when they were sick like a snuggle buddy and brought them joy and smiles everyday.

     So maybe it's time?  I really miss the sound of little doggie nails on the hardwood floors, always a friend to greet you when you come home and curling up on a rainy day with soft fur tickling my face.

Day Trip

    

     We took the kids to Peddlers Village on Saturday.  A quaint town with cobblestone paths that take you from beautiful store to store.  Bus trips bring people to this popular attraction.  We are lucky to live only 10 minutes away, so no need for a bus ticket!  Originally, the plan was for just me and Superman to escape for the day and shop, have lunch and hunt for antiques.  Then we found out the village was having it's popular scarecrow contest, which the kids love, so I didn't have the heart to leave them behind (I know, I'm a sucker)  It's not just your typical scarecrows though, these are some of the most creative things on a stick I have ever seen!  Check out the pictures below.  OH and the place was overrun with ladies from the Red Hat Society, they came on a huge bus all dressed in purple and red hats.  Superman (my blog name for 'hubby') had such a hard time understanding what it was about and why they would walk around like that!

     Ever wonder if you are dressed appropriate for a restaurant?  I did.  We came upon one that was a bit "fancy" looking from the outside.  I was unsure, since we were all in jeans and sneaks.  Until Superman spotted a red hat through the window and said to me "listen, if there are old ladies in there wearing purple tee shirts and red hats, we're dressed perfectly and going in"  lol, so we did and had a delicious lunch!

     Those old doors and shutters up there were just a stop on the way to the village.  Aren't they cool?   This is where our family's construction supervisors from the residential division store stuff salvaged from old homes before they get tossed into the big black dumspter sitting there onsite.  Almost like a salvage graveyard.  We took a few, one in particular will make a great top for a work table and another one I took for my sister to make a headboard for her bedroom.  She has the most beautiful Bella Notte Linens and a big fluffy bed, she just needs the perfect headboard to finish it off.  We have to get both of our homes in tip top shape for some upcoming projects.  Enjoy the day trip pictures in the village!~xo

Invasion of the famous red hats:

A favorite shop:

Not really a scarecrow is it?  Just a sample of one of the entries in the contest!

"Lord of the Bling" scarecrow:

I liked this sign!

Little man didn't like this one:

A reminder that Christmas is coming soon:

The kids favorite store:

Lunch is served!

Now you see it

Now you don't!  Our girl can eat!

Finally some dessert too!

A Written Note...

     I went to my mailbox today, nothing exciting, until I looked at a brown envelope with handwriting so familiar to me.  I opened it, unsure of the contents, and on his own personal beautiful stationery, a 6 page letter from my Dad.  I think I mentioned that I live within 5 minutes of my parents and talk to them at least 2 times a day.  So was the letter a surprise?  Yep.....BUT Dad loves to write, in fact he has been writing a journal of his life to pass down to us once he is long gone.  We are not allowed to read it now, only when he is "in heaven checking out the place before you get there", as he says.  The contents of his letter to me were so touching, just asking me to slow it down a bit after the hospital saga .   Words so sweet from the man I admire most in the world.

     He writes every day, journal upon journal, I'm not sure how many books he has filled, his life has been full of funny outrageous stories and colorful characters floating in and out.  A perfect Martin Scorsese movie for sure.  He has lived (and still living) an amazing life.  A wonderful husband and father to me,my brother and sister and a kind and generous friend to many.  An example of what hard work and determination can do.  He's a cool guy, I know you would like him.  He has even given autographs on occasion!  Not because of fame.. but proximity...his close friend is a famous retired sports player, when they are out to eat, their meals are usually interuppted by a fan, and they turn to Dad and ask for his autograph too.  When they do, he always replies "I'm no one famous", but he is famous in my eyes. My son was born on Dad's birthday, January 15th.  Little man made his entrance 5 days early, so it was a surprise and a cool birthday present too!  They are so much alike in so many ways.

     Although he doesn't even know how to turn on a computer, let alone read this post (Mom, maybe you can show him), I wanted you to *meet* my dad and share some pictures, while I go call him and thank him for his beautiful letter and tell him how much I love him and maybe inspire you to call someone you love too or write them a letter. ~ xo

Come Window Shop With Me...

    Today my sister and I took our daughters shopping in her lovely little town, filled with so many unique shops at every turn in old historic buildings.  .  Little nooks and crannies, coffee shops, vintage wares, cottage shops.  Of course my niece just wanted to hit the clothing boutiques.  I had an interesting conversation with a fabric store owner, tons of beautiful fabrics, she was showing me around the store...we came across some of the cool fabrics of the fabulous designers I was lucky enough to work with on some upcoming projects. (soon to be posted!) They had a "no photo policy" and I didn't want to be a "bad Tara" ( like my friend Fifi at a shop in CA ), so I behaved and bit my tongue!  Anyway, come window shop with us if you weren't able to get out today!

Trying on some cool jeans:

My niece didn't have to twist our arm to enter this clothing boutique.  So chic!  Chandeliers everwhere!

Our turn for the cottage shops ...

Look what's playing in the old time movie theater... Casablanca!

For you Babette! 

and for you too Fifi ...

and for my paper friends, check out this cool shop's storefront!

is it really that time soon?

Ending with lunch at a cute cafe:

and some water ice to finish it off!  Hope you had fun shopping with us! ~xo

Everything Is Better at Mom-Mom's...

     I should say "everything is better at Mom-Mom and Pop-Pop's.  I love my parents home, it's far from shabby, pink or vintage and it's not the home I grew up in (my brother bought it years ago, so it's still in the family!) but their lovely cottage home with a traditional style is a feast for the eyes and comfort for the soul.  The kids love going to visit, which is convenient since they live 5 minutes away! A place where they are able to do anything (Mom has a sign hanging that says so), eat anything, stay up late, my girl can play with Mom-Mom's doll collection and rummage through her closet and jewelry, and little man can sharpen his pool skills on the pool table in the lower level with it's nautical themed entertainment area. I thought I would share some spots and give blog love to two of my best supporters and most favorite people in the world! So Mom if you are not on the golf course and reading here... this post is for you ~xo

Her sign to remind the kids

Her favorite picture of my girl, with a picture of me at the same age

Love this perfectly crackled table!

The view from the loft

The lower level entertainment area

Mom's "Memory Quilt" that goes in her suitcase on every trip, so family is always "wrapped" around her!

Friday Eye Candy & other stuff...

     Here is a Friday Fab Favorite to kick off the weekend.  I just love putting these together, so many talented people!

     On a sad note, we attended my sister in law's father's funeral this week.  He died 10 days after walking her down the aisle at the wedding that I wrote about here on the blog.  I even posted a sweet picture of her and her Dad lighting a candle in memory of her Mom.  He died suddenly of a heart attack and unfortunately my brother was the one who found him.  His funeral was lovely, he was an avid painter/artist...handpainting every birthday card and Chistmas card every year.  He would paint houses, cottages, horses...whatever tickled his fancy.  All of his beautiful artwork was displayed at the funeral.  I hope to share with you some of his paintings here on the blog.  So talented, he will be sadly missed.  I know my brother and sister in law treasure those wedding photos even more now.

    On a lighter note, we will be going to our annual family reunion this weekend.  It's a blast every year.  My Dad's side of the family is huge and it became a tradition that we all look forward to.  This year, my sister and I are in charge of bringing the sweets...she is working on one of her fancy desserts...but I am bringing the traditional homemade brownies and chocolate covered strawberries.  Who doesn't love them?!

     Also, I heard (and thank you to the many emails!) that the October issue of Romantic Homes is out and my new column is in there where I get to talk about my favorite subject...BLOGS!  How fun is that?  I didn't get to see it yet, hopefully soon.  I will be taking some time off to work on some deadlines, new projects and re-stock the shelves in the boutique.  Enjoy your weekend! ~xo

The Wild Wild West...

     This was so much fun, playing dress up on the boardwalk.  A trip to the beach wouldn't be complete without a stop at The Lucky Lady Saloon.  The boys wanted to be "gangsters" and us girls wanted to be barmaids.  So this is how we would look way back when, in the wild west?  I definitely don't think I would be wearing an ankle bracelet, and my girl wouldn't be holding a cigarette!  The guys holding guns....maybe?  I think superman looks too comfortable holding that big cannon.  Anyway it was a hoot.

     Today I am trying to catch up on shipping the orders placed while we were away.  Oh my goodness, I've never been so far behind, I WILL get it done if I have to stay up all night.  Thank you to my awesome customers who are always so gracious.   

     Working on some FUN photo shoots for my new product line, need to gather up my "models" and take advantage of these bright sunny days that give just the right lighting.  Congratulations to my friend Heather Bullard in the Grand Opening of her gorgeous boutique The Present Past  Also congratulations to my dear friend Chris at Tutti Chic on her little secret project, I know yesterday wore you out but it will be worth it my dear! xo

Tides in...

     

     We’re back! But I think our hearts and heads are still at the beach...need some winding down time, I guess. It was SO much fun and truly a memorable family vacation, I hope the little ones remember it when they grown up. I spent my summers there at the same beach when I was my son’s age. It brought back so many memories for me, eating at the same diner on the boardwalk that I ate at with my parents and siblings was a life circle moment. It gave me goosebumps remembering ...nothing changed much in the restaurant, same colors, same smells, same good food... and the boardwalk overall is still the same...the amusement pier, the bookstore, the endless row of cool shops, funnel cake stands every block, the famous salt water taffy store, etc. The kids really enjoyed quality time with daddy...at one point, superman was in the ocean boogie boarding in the giant waves with our girl around his neck and little man riding right next to him, the happiness in their eyes and joy in their smiles made my heart float the entire week.

     Another life circle moment for me was when we met up with my best friend and her kids and took them all to the pier for the rides. I have known her since we were 12...we went on the same rides when we were kids..and laughed like we did back then (and screamed too!) We gave each other knowing smiles and giggles watching our kids together having the same fun we used to. So special. (and of course we both forgot our cameras!)

Here they are looking at the big ferris wheel they were riding just hours before...(ps: the tattoo is fake on little man, don't panic Mom!)

     Oh and our little cottage by the sea was really adorable! Renting it sight unseen made me a little nervous, I only had internet pictures to go by, but it lived up to our expectations and more! Just perfect for us, it was brand new and had that great "new house" smell. Loved the rooftop deck where we felt on top of the world. It was so freeing having no internet access (of course I see now that I have so many emails to catch up on and will answer them all, promise!) Lots of unpacking to do and loads of laundry! Thank you for your lovely comments and all of your emails, it’s a great "welcome home" present. Now I’m off to catch up, here are some pics, I'll post more later! xo

Cottage by the sea...

   

Under The Boardwalk...

     "....down by the sea, on a blanket with my baby is where I'll be..."  We are packing up and headed out for a much needed vacation to the beach.  Seven days.  Can't wait to put my toes in the sand, stroll the boardwalk, watch the kids splash and surf in the water and feel the sun on my face.  Funnel cake, salt water taffy's, bike riding, reading books on the beach....Maybe even superman and I will get to spend some relaxing and quality time together, things have been so hectic lately we barely have a chance to say hello!  I was going to put together a Friday fab favorite mosaic beach theme, but I think the picture below sums it up perfectly...the ocean is calling us.  "Ciao" for now..see you when we get back, xo

   

I do...

     Here are some shots I took from the wedding (I know you are probably sick of me talking about it!...this will be it, promise!) I'm still processing alot of the photos, but here are a few! Ceremony was perfect, seeing old friends gave good laughs... surrounded by family warms the heart...happiness is all I saw that night.  An extra sparkle in my brother's already sky blue eyes....watching my daughter come down the aisle (and almost forgetting to spill the rose petals!) ...hearing whispers of "awww how sweet" when my sister and I escorted our handsome older brother down the aisle...and two words my dear sister in-law waited very patiently to hear... "I do"

giggles...

   

Foot fun in the limo!

A touching moment in the ride to the ceremony, my mother holding hands with the bride

Another touching moment, alone in the reception room before anyone arrived, quietly and peacefully, a candle was lit by the bride and her father in memory of her mother.  I was honored to be the only one in the room with them during this emotional moment.

My girl dancing with her Pop-Pop! (She changed like everyone else, from heels to flip flops!)

First dance 

I'm A Little Tea Shirt...

     My friend Heather Bullard sent me this oh so fabulous "Tea" Shirt.   Is this the cutest thing you've ever seen?  Perfect for us ladies in the "vintage" world.  I'm so happy to be one of the first to get it before she launches her new store The Present Past  Heather and I "met" and quickly became friends while working on a project together (one of those soon to be told surprises I have coming!) and we felt like we knew each other forever.  She is such an inspiration and talented lady.  Love her eye for design and beautiful photography.  I think we will get the chance to meet in person on another project in the works.  Note to Heather:  you were so right about the size my dear!  Fits perfectly :) Ok, for you vintage lovers, go check out her inspiring blog and keep checking for the launch of her gorgeous boutique   Here is a little modeling session with my new tea shirt!

Packaged perfectly to a "tea" in Heather style!

 

 

Girls Just Wanna Have Fun

     This afternoon was the first start of our "girls" weekend (just me and my little girl)  Since the boys are away, the girls will play!  We stopped at the pool at our country club for a dip, then off to shop for some beach wear for our upcoming vacation.  Had to get this hat for the beach, the GAP is a sure thing for some great sales!  Little girl got herself a pair of funky glasses and a Vera Bradley case for them.  She was wearing the glasses while we were out tonight in the dark.  I think she may sleep in them!  Can you believe my little rock star took the pictures of me with my new beach hat below?  I think we may have a photographer in training here!

Boys will be Boys

     This weekend our boys (hubby and son) leave for their annual camping trip in the mountains of Pennsylvania.  They meet up with my husband 's cousin (and business partner) he has 3 boys himself and they  pitch tents and set up camp with some other friends and their sons and ride their quads and fish on 750 acres (yes- 750!)  A friend of ours own's the property and he meets them with his boys....do you get the picture - BOYS ONLY?  Not that I would go, I couldn't rough it in a tent...I like my down comforter and fluffy pillows!  This is their 4th annual trip, lots of excitement in the air...packing, bags everywhere and questions from hubby like "do you know wear my riding pants and gloves are?"  How the heck would I know that!?  Here are some shots from last year and yes they wear all the safety gear, helmets (shout out to uswood1 in NY- I see you!) chest protectors, etc...they are all experienced riders.

Group shots on the "rides"  See the little hunk in the front with no shirt on? 

Hubby is 3rd from the left in this picture (or the only one with hair!)- My washer was clogged for days after this trip!

At least here in this picture I know they remembered to feed the kids!  Pic on the right is of their camp site

     My daughter and I have a fun weekend planned with lots of girly things!  Pedicures, shopping for her shoes and a headpiece for the big wedding.  I'll be able to catch up with some old friends, one who we call the Dunkin Donuts heiress!  Her and her husband own a chain of 10 Dunkin Donuts stores....we laugh because you think she would be as big as a house from eating free donuts, but she is thin and beautiful and says that the only free donuts she gets are ones that had a donut "malfunction" that nobody would eat! 

     Oh and I also plan on listing some great flea market finds that I never got around to and also those beautiful Spindles handpainted by our lovely guest artist Claudia.  I also will get the chance to get caught up a million things this weekend with the house quiet, like shipping out orders, and concentrate on some new projects.  Planning our vacation to the beach and packing (I'll post more on that later)  It's no where tropical, just a week to the beach.  The tropical trip is planned for this Winter. 

Fabulous Fifi

     Had to make a quick post (although it shouldn't be so quick since the subject matter is great!) BUT I have a gazillion things on my never ending "to-do" list today.  So here goes...my friend and author, Francoise O'Neill (fifi), whom I mentioned here has started a blog.  Can I just say that the new blog "Chez Fifi" is as fabulous as fifi herself?!  With the help of a VERY talented gal named Shawn, she created the perfect blog for fifi.  I have to thank Shabby Miss Jenn for connecting us with Shawn, she was a godsend!  If you need an awesome banner or any digi scrap *dazzle* (Shawn; that word suits you perfectly!) go see Shawn at her blog Auntie Pea.  I had a lot of emails asking for the blog link when it was ready, so be sure to stop by and see Fifi's blog and say hello, I know she would love to hear from you all, tell her Tara sent you! lol! xo  Visit Chez Fifi Blog

Going To The Chapel

     Well, not really a chapel, but my brother is getting married!  After 17 years with his sweet girlfriend, (for a long time I introduced her as my sister-in-law anyway),the two are finally making it official this Summer with a small casual candlelight ceremony and dinner/dancing right afterwards.   So many exciting things are happening around here this Summer, professionally and personally, this wedding is the icing on the cake! 

     My brother's good friend, who happens to be a Judge, is marrying them at a really nice reception hall.  My sister and I are so honored she asked us to be "unofficial" bridesmaids.  Quickly saying to us that we "don't have to walk down an aisle or wear the same dress", she just wants us to stand next to her as they exchange vows.  So sweet and of course we said "yes"!   She asked me to help plan the intimate wedding (about 100 close friends and family)  I forgot how much work goes into a wedding, big or small!  We still have a month to go, but here is a sketch I drew of her pretty gown, (sort of a "rough" sketch, since my drawing skills are very novice!) but I think it captures the simplicity and elegance of her gown which sets the theme for the entire wedding, "casual and elegant".  My sister and I decided that we would at least match in the color of our dresses, so we chose a "chocolate" shade, with pink roses for the flowers.  Chocolate loves pink, right?  Or is it pink loves chocolate!?

Below is my dress, it has a really pretty back and I forgot to take a picture!

and here are my shoes that I am almost positive will be killing me by the end of the night!

I'm Happy Blue...

     I came home from a busy day with the kids, carpooling to camps and swim parties, etc..  At the carriage house on our property, there was a BIG box.  I knew it was from UPS, because for some reason the UPS driver leaves all of our packages at the carriage house and not at our main house on our property.  (maybe because he doesn't have to walk as far when he comes up our long driveway?) I never complain to him because I want my packages to arrive safely!  Anyway, I opened the giant box to find a BIG BLUE BOX with the famous logo T I F F A N Y & C O across it!  OMG!   I waited a few seconds (or maybe it was minutes?) just looking at the beautiful box.  There was a card...it was from a very dear friend and her eloquently written note touched my heart.  Could she have remembered my love of Tiffany that I posted  here?  Inside was a set of beautiful champagne flutes with a daisy design.  A gift from Tiffany brings such joy! What a lovely way to brighten someone's day, wouldn't you say?  Now a "toast" to my blue friend, I will use your gift often and think of you!  Thank you xo!

On The Edge of Seventeen...

      Just like the song Stevie Nicks sings... "Edge of Seventeen"... so is my beautiful niece (and Goddaughter) Brooke on the verge of, turning 17 in October.  Here she is practicing her driving skills in her little white VW convertible.  Funny story when I took this picture, she forgot to turn the car on and it was in neutral, she was just coasting backwards and she was yelling (in the most dramatic way that only a 16 year old could do), "Oh my God, there's something totally wrong with my car!"  We yelled back, "the engine isn't on Ding Dong!"  The only girl granddaughter born (until my girl came along 10 years later)  There were all boys before her.  She was the most beautiful baby, you know the kind...with the chubby little baby fat, the tannest olive skin and the most gorgeous green eyes and wild long brown locks with little highlights kissed from the sun.  One of those babies on the beach that always has a better tan than you!

     She wants to go to college in California.  No wait, maybe Florida or New York.  She wants to be an entertainment lawyer.  No wait, I forgot, today it's a singer.  So full of promise, future wide ahead...so young and beautiful on the Edge of Seventeen

Say Hello To My Friend

     I just realized that title sounds a little like the famous quote from the movie "Scarface" lol.. Anyway, I'm excited to share that my dear friend and author, Barbara Jacksier, has taken the plunge into the blogging world!  She is the Editor of Romantic Country and Cottage Style Magazines and is now taking some time off to write books.  The first book is about Cozy Waterside Cottages and her new blog will take us along on her book journey.  I had the pleasure of working with her on some fun projects in the past and look forward to more in the future, it's going to be exciting!  Take a moment to stop by and say hello, I know she would love to hear from you! Barbara Jacksier- The Book Blog   And if you have a cozy waterside cottage, you may just end up in her book...give her a shout!

                                   All photos courtesy of Barbara Jacksier and are copyrighted.

Small Things to Brighten A Day

    

     Small things can bring a smile.  I woke up and found that hubby cut a peony