Northern Girl with a Southern Soul

Christmas Season

2012-01-03T04:56:00.005-06:00

Scooping out the army knives, lead soldiers and cap guns at an Gurnee Antique Center.

S and Great Aunt Dorothy reading Press Here by Herve Tullet.
This is my new favorite children's book.

My niece, N, wanted a purple robe for Christmas and Aunt Gwennie pulled through.
She loved it and wore it for hours. She even liked the monogram.

All the cousins.

J can't get enough Legos.

My mother just rolled over in her grave.
This is what he wanted Santa to bring him, I tried to talk him into the Packers,
but S insisted on the Cowboys.

S loves anything soft, and he got a sheep skin, and lots of stuffed animals.

J had a grand time opening her stocking...
but couldn't understand why we couldn't start painting right away!
(It makes my knees hurt just looking at her sitting like that!)

In front of the tree.Christmas morning, J and S, and the new HUGE stuffed dog.

We toured the Wisconsin Veterans Museum on the Capitol Square.
It was really interesting, the boys loved it.

Boys in front of the Capitol "Holiday" tree.

Editorial note: Come on, if it looks like a Christmas Tree, and smells like a Christmas Tree -
IT"S A CHRISTMAS TREE!
And don't get me started on the alternate Nativity scene.

" ...in a one horse open sleigh." We spent some time at the Mitchell Domes in Milwaukee.
S loves it here, so we try to take him every season.

We also took the boys to The Nutcracker Ballet at the Overture Center. There would be a picture of them, except an usher yelled at me from several rows away about how no pictures could be taken. I wasn't the only one who thought she was rude. People around us thought it was completely over the top. I was mortified and annoyed. The ballet had not started yet, and I was taking a photo of my kids. Geez. People were taking pictures of their groups all over the
theater, but I got busted.

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-24T09:32:00.004-06:00

The inside of our Christmas card. Amy Hall Photography.
My favorite part is the horse racing, jockey Mike Smith and Zenyatta... S insisted on it making his list!

Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas.

This song was from my Mom's, and mine, favorite Christmas movie, Meet Me in Saint Louis. We always cried during the scene where Judy Garland sings to Margaret O'Brien. Those huge tears streaming down Margaret face, and ours. This Christmas will be bittersweet, the first without my Mother. But her ornaments are in my house and her recipes will be on my table.
I will be surrounded by family, and appreciate the love of my husband and children, and the health we are blessed with.
I ask everyone to take a family picture this Christmas. Don't put it off. No one will care about extra pounds, braces, hair, or stains. Do it know, you may not get another chance.
Merry Christmas, Gwennie

I'm dreaming of a ....

2011-12-20T09:06:00.003-06:00

Rose Bowl win. S fell asleep with his Wisconsin Badgers helmet on. Go Badgers! Go Big Red!

A Christmas Carol

2011-12-19T07:21:00.004-06:00

We took the boys to the Overture Center for a CTM matinee performance of A Christmas Carol.

We all loved it, and it had a great twist at the end.
If you are looking for something to do with your family, in the Madison area, it's a must.

They look pretty dapper.

A Few Days of Steve

2011-12-13T06:54:00.001-06:00

S getting some love from Sam. They both couldn't be happier.

Guess what he wants for Christmas?!

S took this picture of his new shoes - bucks- which he loves.

He is a very stylish kid.

S with his rainbow art piece.

He lost a front tooth this morning. He told me he hopes the tooth fairy brings him $5.

"What if the tooth fairy looks at the tooth and goes "Oh, impressive!"

The kid kills me! But five bucks... dream on.

Christmas Tour of the Governor's Mansion

2011-12-11T04:25:00.005-06:00

Yesterday we toured the Wisconsin Executive Residence in Maple Bluff.
It was about 24 degrees with a wind, and we waited about 30 minutes.
I had been to the residence about 30 years ago, but B and the boys had never been.
Now I want to find out how to be a docent here.

Built in 1920 for the Johnson Family, the current residence are Governor Scott
and First Lady Tonette Walker.

J and S on the Mendota Lake side. What a beautiful view, state capitol and all. You might notice white at the shore line... that's ice forming!

I love the iron fence.

One of the urns and lions outside the home.

The garland wraps around the entire staircase.

The Ladies' Room, very feminine.

The dining room had hand painted silk wall coverings,
and a a rug with woodland violets on it, which is the state flower.

China by Lenox, crystal stemware by Mikasa and sterling by Tiffany.

The large tree in the reception room, decorated as a Tribute to the Troops.

The Drawing Room had lots of light and plaid. It was my favorite.
The UW-Whitewater Reed Trio played.

The Library, with a tree decorated in the Glow of Christmas Past, in recognition of the significance of Wisconsin's role in the Civil War. The boys liked this room best... it had weapons.

The end of our tour, the Sun Room. It was very colorful and whimsical.
A delight for children.

There is still time to enjoy a tour.
Wednesday, December 14 from 1-2
Thursday, December 15 from noon to 2
Saturday, December 17 from noon to 2
Although there is no charge to tour the mansion, Governor Walker requests you bring a canned good as a donation to Second Harvest Food Bank.

Christmas Brunch

2011-12-07T06:08:00.005-06:00

Dining Room Tree, all decked in German glass ornaments

The party favor, pineapple, with tags from No Fuss Fabulous.

Music Room

Living Room, ready for guests, complete with a roaring fire. One guest said that my house summed me up in a good way. I guess that's better than in a bad way!

Some of the food... twelve ladies came to enjoy the day... all stay at home moms from school. We started at 9 am and the last guest left just before 2. I guess that makes it a success! I think this may become a tradition.

The salad my mom always made.

The Best Title for an Article - EVER

2011-11-14T18:35:00.004-06:00

Philly Magazine recently ran an article called Main Line Mothers are Raising Bratty, Spoiled Rotten Daughters: Insecure Parents are Showering their Children with Lavish Gifts and creating totally un-dateable women.

It is not just in Philadelphia either. There are many young ladies I see that I hope my boys never date. I, also, tell the boys not to date a picky eater. Life's too short to deal with that malarkey.

Check out the article here .

Tis the Season

2011-11-12T06:54:00.002-06:00

Yesterday I spent two hours redoing a Christmas garland, taking off the lights, in which only half of them worked, removing all the wired on ornaments, and starting over. I had gone to Hobby Lobby and bought the green balls and picks to add to the red balls I already had. After two hours I get to the last grouping... and run out of picks. Sonofa.... I race to Madison, back to Hobby Lobby, and get to the pick area...sonofa... they are sold out. I think I may have cried out loud.

Cleaning Out

2011-11-11T05:23:00.003-06:00

My father has asked my sister and I to clean out the basement in the house he and Mom lived in since 1976. We have been at it for months, doing a little at a time. It has been fun seeing all the things that were part of our childhood. Fisher Price people, the Santa face that hung in the kitchen (that Mom would point at when we were being naughty... point taken). I have found transferware plates and platters, jars of buttons, papers from grade school. Yesterday I found a box of tiny small ornaments, on the cover was the handwriting of my Great-Grandmother "glass ornaments from Judy". What do I keep? Do I keep the box? I am torn between sentimentality and practicality. My sister in more the practical, I end up with the memories.

Fallingwater and a Seven Year old

2011-11-03T16:21:00.002-05:00

My aunt sent me a card with the above picture of Frank Lloyd Wright's Fallingwater. My seven year old son came home, noticed the card on the table and proclaims "I love Fallingwater. I think this is his best work." I asked him who the architect was. He rolls his eyes and says (with "Duh" in his voice) "Frank Lloyd Wright...remember he was from Wisconsin." He continues with "I really want Santa to bring me the Lego Fallingwater." He's SEVEN! God love him, he totally cracks me up. Can you imagine what he is going to be like when he is older?!

Happy Halloween 2011

2011-11-01T05:53:00.002-05:00

The official "stand in front of the house" Halloween picture. When I was a grade schooler I attended a Catholic school and we were not allowed to dress up for Halloween... we dressed up for All Saints Day, which is November 1. Yeah, like it wasn't hard enough to ride the bus, now I was dressed as Saint Ann. Let's just say the public school kids were not so kind. Where are those pictures?

The kids had a non-uniform day today at school as a reward. This is what S decided to wear, because as he told me he wanted to "impress the girls." He cracks me up.

Halloween at School

2011-10-30T14:29:00.003-05:00

S and his best friend, T, went as dice. I painted these boxes in the garage, and a kitty got onto it and left white paint kitty prints all over the garage floor. S hopes they never go away.

J as a clown. He was a big ham in the parade.

Fourth Grade cupcake treats.

Miss N as a pink fairy. She is so cute. Her mom and I have become friends, a southern girl meets a northern girl (who she thought was a southern girl too.)

My niece, M, started at the school this year. It is so fun to see her every day. She was a princess.

The second grade party, making die cut jointed skeletons. The kids and adults loved it.

Visit to Wisconsin State Capitol

2011-10-22T16:05:00.002-05:00

No protestors in sight.... time to visit the state capitol. Friday the boys didn't have school, so we went downtown. It was a perfect autumn day.

We have the most beautiful state capitol. We have visited many capitols across the country, and I feel safe in saying this. You also can walk right in... and walk on the grass (or picnic, if you are so inclined.) In the summer the Wisconsin Symphony Orchestra plays on Wednesday nights and thousands of people lay on the grounds enjoying the music.

The doors leading to the Senate chambers. Note the badger above the door.

Cooking Class, part 3

2011-10-22T05:39:00.002-05:00

Another student has joined our little class. They were good learners and excited to take home a meal for the evening. Including dessert, caramel apple cupcakes.

The meal was Chicken Dijon Brown Betty, cranberries and salad with poppy seed dressing.

Their families really liked it. Next week will be chicken pot pie.

Out of the Mouths of Babes

2011-10-20T06:13:00.003-05:00

Quoted by S, two minutes ago...
"The best part of Christmas is hot apple cider, candy canes, presents and food... good food."
The kid totally cracks me up. How many 7 year olds list cider first?!

The Shack

2011-10-16T10:50:00.003-05:00

Yesterday we were in the Muscoda area for a memorial. I made sure we stopped my Grandmother's property, which was sold to the DNR after her death. The cottage, or as it was known "The Shack", is gone, but the Wisconsin River and the woods are still there as reminders of what was.

It was this time of year that the entire family, Aunts, Uncles and all the cousins would get together to cut wood. The men would head in the old truck to bring out the fallen trees, cut down the dead ones, and cut them into pieces that would fit into the wood burning stove. They would drive back to the shack, unload the back full of wood and the women and older cousins would use a splitter to make usable pieces, and the young ones would stack it. Enough wood to heat the shack through the winter. The day was filled with hard work, wonderful stories, lots of jumping into leaf piles and ended with a huge bonfire, with roasted weiners and marshmallows.

Taking my boys to the area that holds so many memories makes me miss an easier time, my mom and especially my Grandmother. How I wish Grandma could have met my sons. She would have loved J's adventurous spirit and S's gentle ways. And they would have adored her. Although she would have clobbered them in Scrabble, she showed no mercy.

Ready, set, throw 'em!

This Little Preppy went to Market

2011-10-14T05:40:00.002-05:00

I road tripped to Baraboo on Tuesday to The Meat Market. It's a meat eaters dream.

Pork, chicken, beef, oh my! I came home with thinly sliced beef for Philly Cheesesteaks. I made breaded steak, a nod to my mom. Bought a beautiful chuck roast for the shredded beef enchiladas for cooking class. A cooler was filled, and the eatings been grand!

Right now the breakfast sausage is in a skillet, and breakfast burritos will be our breakfast.

If you are in the area, check it out http://www.themeatmarket.net/.

Cooking Class, part 2

2011-10-14T05:30:00.002-05:00

This week J learned to make shredded beef enchiladas, guacamole and frozen Key lime pie.
It was wonderful. Next week, Good Wife Chicken.

Antique Shopping

2011-10-13T05:48:00.002-05:00

S fell in love with this child size upholstered chair. He said he is going to save up for it.

Mama fell in love with this chair, and she said we should buy it now. Daddy had other ideas. Damn. Maybe for Christmas?! Hint, hint.

Haunted Gingerbread Houses

2011-10-13T05:05:00.004-05:00

The nieces came over to create their haunted houses this past weekend. Everyone was very creative, and lots of icing and candy were used.

Freckle Love

2011-10-08T06:51:00.003-05:00

I love this face. The sprinkle of freckles (like his Mama) and the most perfect lips with natural pink color (not like his Mama). Some girl, someday, is going to love those lips.

Fromagination

2011-10-08T05:57:00.004-05:00

Fromagination is the most beautiful store I have ever seen, anywhere.

The merchandise is lovely and the display's amazing. The store is right on the Wisconsin's beautiful Capital Square.

I bought a great wedge of Chalet Baby Swiss, my favorite Pleasant Ridge Reserve from Wisconsin's Upland Cheese Company. S loves triple creme, so a good size wedge of Delice de Bourgogne came home for him. The cheesemonger asked me if I liked blue cheese, which I do, then she gave me a taste of Rogue Creamery's Rogue River Blue. This cheese is wrapped in Cognac soaked grape leaves and is amazing. It is also the most expensive cheese I've ever tasted or bought, at $50 a pound. I bought a very small sliver of it. And I don't plan to share!

Cooking Class, part 1

2011-10-06T13:50:00.008-05:00

This morning was spent teaching a friend to make Beef Bourguinon.

It was a blast!
Add a little brandy and set it on fire. I can't wait to hear what her family thinks of her creation.

Unbuyers Remorse

2011-10-03T04:18:00.002-05:00

Why, oh why, did I leave this amazing platter at the antique store?

Soon to make the return trip to bring this home. I have no idea where I will hang it, but love, love, love it.

Mama Pride

2011-10-02T19:05:00.003-05:00

J received the Soar Award at school on Thursday for perseverance.

That is the optimum word to describe every day at school for him.

Everything about school is more challenging for him, which is heart wrenching and frustrating for Mama. I love him so much and I just want to scoop him out of school and keep him home to learn at his pace. He is a smart boy, it just takes him a little longer to catch on.

Cornhuskers, Welcome to the Big Ten

2011-10-02T06:26:00.002-05:00

photo courtesy of www.madison.com and Wisconsin State Journal

Last night's game was amazing... that is if you were a Badger Fan.

I watched it from the comfort of my living room, and that corn was creamed 48-17.

Now we hope for the Brewers and Packers.

Debt - Paid in Full

2011-09-28T13:05:00.003-05:00

You know the kind of person you never want to be left alone with at a party?

Well... I left a friend of mine alone with such a person.

She told me I owed her.

Jackie... here is your payment, cheesecake with raspeberry sauce. Enjoy!

For the recipe (and trust me, you want to make it) scope out it here.

Bella Vita is a great blog, and always leaves me inspired.

How to Motivate Yourself

2011-09-09T06:21:00.003-05:00

I looked out the window as I was reading with S last night and saw a group of people on the sidewalk looking at my house. I went out, casually, pretending to put trash into the can, and asked if I could answer any questions about the house. This group was on a historic walking tour of our street. I started telling them about the house, when I heard myself ask if they would like to come in and see it. They thanked me but declined. I said good-bye and headed back in. Then it struck me... Thank the Lord they refused! I looked around at the piles, and got my butt moving. It's amazing what you can do when you really do it, instead of putting it on the list. With back to school and hauling treasures from my parents house, it had gotten a wee bit (okay, a lot) out of control. All those little "put-away" piles are gone. I woke this morning to more order, and felt better. They can come back now.... after I finish vacuuming, mopping, dusting, and cleaning the chandelier. Okay, come back next week.

Gum Ball Necklace

2011-09-07T05:15:00.003-05:00

My niece, Z, is having a Bubble Gum Birthday Party at the end of the month.

Aunt Gwennie made the necklaces.

I'm thinking of stringing them to hang on the chandelier over the table.

Also, I need to come up with a craft project. Hmmm...

First Day of School

2011-08-30T16:04:00.004-05:00

New clothes, new lunch bags, new start
I love their new lunch boxes! Very cool. From Planet Box. The Modern Art magnets J loves, he named Warhol and Mondrian. Apparently those Art Days are paying off!

Lots of compartments...lots of options.

S headed to 2nd grade.
He thinks his teacher is "very, very funny".

His shirt stayed white and clean for about an hour into school, when he got a gusher of nose bleed. Thank God for Shout!

J headed to 4th grade.

He thinks his teacher is "really, really, really nice."

Art Day with Aunt Gwen/The Pink Lady

2011-08-25T06:51:00.004-05:00

S was not so into it. I'm not sure why.

J making his watercolor.

The whole group.

K was very precise. She calls me "Pink Lady", which I love!

Niece S creating her watercolors.

FYI Crayola watercolors are the BEST! Totally worth the extra money.

M, being the oldest, actually listened to the directions.

Her parents would be shocked!

I love the concentration!

Finished art project.

My art piece. I like it, very colorful.

I already have a list of close to one hundred new art/craft projects for next summer.

Maybe I should homeschool, and then the boys and I could have art day everyday.

I'm sad that the summer is coming to an end. I will miss the boys, not the fighting, but the closeness.

Good Mom

2011-08-23T12:24:00.003-05:00

Is it wrong that I taught the boys to tip their heads back and drink Hershey's syrup right from the bottle? They need to learn these life lessons at home, right?!

Introducing...

2011-08-21T19:33:00.003-05:00

My newest niece. She was born on Friday morning. 20 inches, almost 9 pounds.
Look at her hair. She's a beauty.

J loves babies, and had to get his chance to hold her.

He was so sweet with her.

Welcome to the world, A!

Antique Shopping

2011-08-21T19:26:00.002-05:00

I want this!
S is hunting wabbits.

I love this quilt... how fabulous are the sunflowers?

This thread is $5... any suggestions on what to do with it?

National Mustard Museum

2011-08-14T11:55:00.004-05:00

The boys outside the National Mustard Museum in Middleton, Wisconsin.

J has been wanting to go here all summer. He's a little odd, but I like that about him.
The great wall of mustard, organized by nation.

We watched a film about mustard at the Mustard Piece Theatre.

Enjoying lunch, with mini hot dogs, brats and pretzels, topped with any kind of mustard available.

Here is the mustard vending machine.

We came home with several kinds of mustard. There are thousand of kinds of mustard in the gift shop, all available to taste. S won a bottle of Kopp's mustard in a ring toss game. I got two jars of Grey Poupon, just by giving a five dollar donation. We had a great time, the trip really "cut the mustard".

Door County Weekend

2011-08-11T18:14:00.007-05:00

We started our trip with a stop at THE Farm. Kisses to S from the kids.
J feeding the goats.

S loved the cats.

Yummy chocolate shake from the Door Co. Ice Cream Factory.

Movie under the stars. The Zookeeper at The Skyway.

The funniest part of the whole evening was running into a family from school.

It is a small world.

Blankets, Wheat Thins and curd.

The biggest catch so far this year. J was so happy and proud!

The Door County Fair Demolition Derby.

I think the Lilly pants were the right choice, don't you?

All I could think was Marisa Tomei, in My Cousin Vinny, saying "Oh yeah, you blend."

Excitement abounds.
There were even a few women in thie co-ed showdown.

This little guy slept through almost all of it.

The boys really enjoyed it.

Amazing Race Party - all in pink

2011-08-11T17:46:00.003-05:00

I was asked to plan a party, and I loved almost every minute of it. The hundred degree temps on the actual date weren't my favorite part.

The birthday girl wanted it all in pink, glitter and girly. I wonder why I was asked to plan it?!

The cupcakes came from GiGi's Cupcakes- strawberry shortcake.

Flavored marshmallows, dipped strawberries and pink lemonade.

Roses, feathers and scattered jewels.

The girls doing one of the challenges: getting pink balls into pink buckets!

Water bottles, ready for their name tags.

Don't you just love the Dollar Tree Store?

The front of the house all decked out.

Treat bags for all: pink bubble wands, pink bath sponge, lotion and bath gel, nail polish, and even a pink polka dot rubber ducky! Lots of girly things for a whole bunch of girly girls.

The birthday girl was happy, and so were her parents.

I hope I have a chance to do it again!

Sanibel

2011-08-02T04:50:00.005-05:00

Heaven: Sand on my toes, a million dollar view and a good book. Does it get better than this?
J doing the "Sanibel Stoop".

My sister said this made my legs look long.

Ah, to dream of having long legs like hers!

S and his Gulf find.

Water, sand and Lilly.

Our new family member. We named him Frasier.

If you need a place to escape, check out Casa Ybel Resort. Fabulous!
We will be back.

John and Mable Ringling Museum

2011-07-30T16:38:00.005-05:00

The Ringling Family is from my neck of the woods. Trust me, their Northern home looked nothing like this. We have been to the Circus World Museum in Baraboo, but this Museum and House in Sarasota was - WOW!
The house, Ca' d'Zan, was a little gaudy for my taste, but I can appreciate the craftsmanship involved. Lily pads

Museum garden

The marble terrace which made me want to throw a really fancy black tie party.

I would pretend Jay Gatsby was my date.

Miniature Circus - the details are unbelievable.

And I'm glad he isn't my husband!

David in the Garden

Lands' End Warehouse Sale- what I got this year!

2011-07-29T15:56:00.004-05:00

Sweaters...
and jackets...

and tote bags, oh my.

I got lucky with shoes... they ran a special while I was there, half off the marked down price!

At one o'clock, orange suede: these are samples for $7.50

brown suede: regular price $29.50 sale $7.25

orange ballet shoes regular price $69.50 sale $14.75

navy suede moccasin regular price $29.50 sale $7.25

brown suede boot regular price $105.00 sale $31.50

Now I just have to wait for autumn.

Black Watch blazer for J

two ribbon belts

beautiful black sweater

and not pictured, boat shoes for both boys, slippers for S, and a gorgeous wool plaid tote for me.

Always worth going!

Until next year...

Craft Day with Aunt Gwen: "Tie Dye" shirts

2011-07-29T15:34:00.002-05:00

This was such a fun project! I kept wondering why I didn't buy myself a t-shirt!

You will need one 100% cotton shirt, Sharpies or Bic permanent markers, eye droppers and rubbing alcohol. It's easy-peasy. Lay the shirt flat, placing a piece of cardboard inside the shirt to prevent bleeding through. Make dots in a circle, pressing hard to have lots of ink on the fabric, then drop rubbing alcohol in the center, and watch the ink bleed. I threw them in a hot dryer to set the color. The kids all loved this project. And I am now working on a tote bag.

M was the most diligent, which probably comes from being the oldest. I think hers turned out the best, just don't tell the others!

The finished product. I love that the kids love spending time together, and get along great.

The Fab Four!

Visiting Aunt Judy

2011-07-29T07:20:00.006-05:00

My favorite part of my two weeks was spending the day with my Aunt.

Geez... guess who I look like?!
She took us to Homosassa Springs, and we got to see manatees being feed.

owls

I have never been so close to an eagle.

The animals here have been injured and are on the mend.

J caught this lizard in Aunt Judy's yard. We released him back into his own environment.

My cousin joined us for dinner. I was wonderful to sit and talk to my Aunt. I got to read my Grandmother's journal from the early twenties. And letters written from my Great -Grandmother, when she lived in a sanitarium out west, asking about her toddler son whom her sister-in-law raised. She never saw him again.
I saw some of the dresses that my Aunt sews and sells on Etsy. I wish I had a little girl to wear them.
Aunt Judy is coming our way this fall, I can't wait.

Tarpon Springs - OPA!

2011-07-27T05:52:00.003-05:00

I had been to Tarpon Springs thirty years ago (that statement makes me feel old!) and I knew I had to take the kids there. First on the agenda -lunch.
and dessert! Oh the problems picking just one.

We picked out sponges and saw the big fish trophies.

And the owner is an adorable man who gave words of advice to my boys, saying "Take care of your mother, because she will take care of you her entire life." His own mother is 93, and he said he always worries that when he calls her, he will get bad news. I told him, given that I recently lost my own mother, I would give anything to be able to call my mom.

The boats filled with sponges.

The town is sort of a tourist trap, but the sponge docks are interesting, given that we don't have anything like it in Wisconsin. And, of course, the baklava makes it all worth while.

Florida, beginning with Disney

2011-07-26T07:22:00.006-05:00

Welcome to Florida!
The Grand Floridian was fabulous! We loved it!
Beautiful, wonderful music in the lobby, helpful and friendly staff (or cast members, as they are referred).

Getting spit on by a pretend camel.
Must be a boy thing.

J HAD to have a turkey leg for lunch.

Cooling off. It was hot and humid!

On Safari. Also, while in the Animal Kingdom I got pooped on by a flying bird. I love nature!

Taken during the Dessert Buffet and great seating for the fireworks.

Mary Poppins was practically perfect in every way.

Using his muscles, J tries to pull the Sword from the Stone.

S and Daddy driving!

Trying to not make a mess... at least he tried!

One our way to Mickey's BBQ!

In full disclosure, I don't really "get" the draw of Disney. I know lots of people that love it , and go frequently. But once you've been there, well... you've been there, done that. I talked to a man, from Texas, whose family were on their third trip to Disney World in thirteen months. What about the rest of the country? Niagara Falls, the Outer Banks, Mount Rushmore? It is very clean and organized, everyone is incredibly helpful, but I never want to go back.

Also, I was appalled by the amount of piercings and tattoos. And I must be really out of the loop, because when did bra straps become a fashion statement?

Marvelous Macon

2011-07-25T21:01:00.003-05:00

We saw this house the last time we were in Macon, and fell in love with it. It was for sale then, and the new owners have done a great job.

The famous Johnston-Felton-Hay House.

B wants the turret. We love Macon, just driving the streets, admiring the homes.

Lunch in Atlanta

2011-07-25T20:44:00.005-05:00

I planned the trip so we would land in Atlanta at lunch time. I had to eat at Buckhead Diner. We ate here several years ago, and I had the best steak I have ever eaten.
These are to die for- potato chips with bleu cheese. I would have licked the plate, if no one was around.

My lunch, another perfect steak. I didn't have room for the white chocolate banana pudding, but I've had it before, and you should definitely try it.

The lunch was wonderful, and we saw a movie star to boot - from my all time favorite movie, The Godfather. Robert Duvall was sitting in the next booth.

Florida or bust

2011-07-08T06:01:00.002-05:00

My entire wardrobe of Lilly is packed and we are off to two weeks in Florida!

Disney, Clearwater, Sanibel, Everglades, the Keys, Miami, Palm Beach...

We'll see it, and eat it, all!

July Fourth Weekend

2011-07-05T19:53:00.009-05:00

Time with all the cousins
The dinner beauty shot

My Brother-in-law's beauty shot, I love him!

Chilling

Pretending a graham cracker is a cell phone

At the beach.

Antiquing

Boating

Eating Frosty Tip

Structure or Unstructured

2011-06-13T05:49:00.002-05:00

The thing about parenthood is you don't necessarily know if you are making the right decisions until the kids are grown. I give the kids lots of unstructured time in the summer. No lessons, no tutors, no day camps. I do art projects with them, and we practice some math facts, but other than that, they play. They are out of the house about 7am and play outside for hours. They come up with creative things to build, games to play, and interesting ways to incorporate water into everything!

I feel very alone in this style of parenting, "You aren't having them do anything?!" It's not like they just sit there all day, they are constantly going... up trees, into the tree fort, in the sand box, under the sprinkler. I think that they have an entire adult life in front of them with responsibilities, deadlines and pressures. What adult wouldn't take a few months of freedom?

Will they appreciate all their carefree days when they are adults? Will they feel they missed out because they aren't on any teams? Time will tell.

Spring Concert

2011-05-27T05:21:00.002-05:00

Madras, Seersucker and Stylish Ties, oh my.

I was very proud of my very handsome sons. They happily dressed up for their school Spring Concert, even though boys don't dress like this in Wisconsin. Except when their mother thinks she may have been Southern in a former life!

Dreaming of Vacation

2011-05-21T09:02:00.002-05:00

We are taking a two week driving vacation to Florida this summer. I know it isn't the best time of the year, but with school, it is the only opportunity to spend that much time to see the state. We are driving the entire loop of the state, going to Orlando (this is only for the kids), then headed to the St. Petersburg area (Hi, Aunt Judy!)
onto Sanibel and the Casa Ybel Resort seen above, down to the Everglades and Keys and back up the east side of the state. Of course, I will be sporting and searching for Lily the entire time. Any suggestions on what we HAVE to see? Places to eat? Historic homes to tour?

Madison Farmers Market

2011-05-16T12:15:00.002-05:00

Tulips in front of Capitol in Madison. The Farmers Market is every Saturday, around the beautiful Capitol, and is something that can't be missed. There is a waiting list to be a seller, and the bounty is endless.
We have done extensive research, and have concluded that Farmer John has the best cheese curds. We proved the point by eating two bags in two days.

J is my market buddy. He is finding the Queen Bee, and then we enjoyed some honey.

This is my favorite flower seller. The roses smell amazing.

We also researched who makes the best beef sticks and jerky. D & G won hands down.

Until next week...

Mother's Day

2011-05-10T17:17:00.004-05:00

Mother's Day was incredibly hard, having lost my own mother not three months ago. I spent the afternoon with my in-laws, and snuggling with my newest niece, E. E helped my heart a lot!

Derby Party 2011

2011-05-10T17:09:00.003-05:00

The silver mint julep cups were fabulous! They frosted up perfectly.
Red roses, fried chicken, pimento cheese, ham and biscuits, and Kern's Derby Pie shipped in from Kentucky. Notice the tablecloth from Pomegranate, Inc. Love it!

Roasted fresh asparagus. It looked beautiful on the antique platter.

No one picked the winning horse, so all money was donated to the school.

Quote of the Day

2011-05-07T12:23:00.002-05:00

S turned to me , as he was putting pineapple, cherries and cloves on the ham for the Derby party, and said, "Mama, if I can't be a jockey, I am going to be a scientist, and then I'm going to be a cook."

May Day

2011-05-04T05:31:00.002-05:00

I spent some time in the Pre-K room yesterday celebrating May Day. It was a cold, cloudy day, but those children are filled with sunshine. We read a book about Counting in the Garden and did a flower craft project. I feel so lucky that the school let's me come in once a year to do this. I grew up with May Day, and enjoy passing the traditions along to the next generation. One little girl looked at her flower and said to herself, "My flower is so beautiful." She was so sweet, I could have spread her on toast!

Royal Wedding Book Fair

2011-05-01T09:10:00.002-05:00

I was chair of the Scholastic Book Fair this past week. With the timing of the Royal Wedding, I used that as the theme. The teachers had afternoon tea for their sneak peek, the kids guessed how many jewels were in the container for a contest, and we all enjoyed wedding cake on Friday morning.

Thanks to Vera's House of Bridal for the loaner.

Lots of books were read and enjoyed.

Easter

2011-04-26T05:20:00.004-05:00

Looking spiffy. They actually fought over who got to wear the bow tie. J finally won, with the promise to S that he could wear it for the Spring Concert at school.
S helping trim radishes. I won't be surprised if he becomes a chef. He loves to help with the cooking.

Teaching my niece, Z, to make mashed potatoes. She was a big help.

All the cousins on the hammock.

J checking out her basket. Everything was fun for her.

And the big guys were less thrilled.

Book Signing at Williams-Sonoma

2011-04-19T11:15:00.003-05:00

We met Josh Kilmer-Purcell and Brent Ridge, AKA The Beekman Boys.

They signed their book, The Bucolic Plague: How Two Manhattanites Gentlemen Farmers.
Waiting in line, we saw a group of prom kids, and I firmly explained to them that they should never, under no circumstances, ever take their prom date to the mall... and to never wear anything but a classic black tux. Ah... these little life lessons.

My boys meeting "the boys".

They asked about the llama, Polka-Spot, their favorite animal on the farm. We have loved watching their show on Planet.

Brent and Josh were so gracious and lovely.
And they liked my orange coat.

Eleven Kids = One Awesome Birthday Party

2011-04-19T10:51:00.002-05:00

J turned 9 last week, and we hosted 11 boys for a Nerf Gun Party.

April 16 and it snowed!

Oreo Cake and the birthday boy.

Favors and personalized water bottles.

Make a Wish!

This is the aftermath.

Fancy Nancy Party

2011-04-13T19:55:00.003-05:00

My niece joined in the party. She will go to the school next year, and she had a chance to meet some of the girls. Every young lady took home a fancy fuzzy blanket.

A very Fancy chandelier.

Things to make you Fancy; boas and rings and bracelets, oh my!

Last weekend was the Fancy Nancy party that was my donation to our school auction.

It was a great success!

Favor buckets, waiting to go home.

Flowers and feather centerpiece, and cotton candy towers.

All the Fancy Young Ladies!

My talented sister came to take pictures, and my great friend, Jean, with assistance from her daughter, came and gave a French lesson. It was a delightful afternoon, and I am already planning next years party.

ah...okay.

2011-03-14T09:41:00.003-05:00

On our way to school, I was quizzing J on his science test he has today, reinforcing that if he finishes a test early, that he spend the extra time to look it over again. Check his spelling, look for punctuation, etc. Then he says "That's what Grandpa Vonny always says." Me: "He does?" J: "Yeah, like when you go to a Japanese restaurant, you eat Japanese food. Or you go to an Italian restaurant, you eat Italian food. You don't eat just macaroni and cheese." Me: Silence for a beat, "Am I missing something? What does eating in a restaurant have to do with test taking?" J: "I don't know, but Grandpa always says that." Ah...okay. At least he is listening to something.

Lotta Books

2011-03-05T11:48:00.004-06:00

Today was the CCBC (Cooperative Children's Book Center), at the UW, spring book sale. The boys and I went, and one hour, 36 books worth $598, $104 later, we have hours of reading enjoyment ahead of us!

Jane Russell

2011-02-28T17:56:00.002-06:00

Jane Russell

1921-2011

She was a classy dame. A broad in the best sense. And my favorite character in 'Gentlemen Prefer Blondes".

Talk Derby to Me!

2011-02-27T06:12:00.003-06:00

I am thinking Derby. And these Pomegranate linens will be on my table. We are having another Derby Party as one of our Auction Donation for school. I can't to pick out my new hat.

My Mom

2011-02-18T19:18:00.005-06:00

Things about my mother:

1. She told me to buy angel hair pasta, it's just prettier than other spaghetti's.

2. She would get dressed up, put on Bing Crosby albums, make special appetizers, and make it a special occasion to decorate the Christmas tree.

3. She thought the rise in divorce could be contributed to what women slept in. She said, "Who wants to go to bed with a woman in a t-shirt and boxers?!" She slept in a negligee every night of her married life... almost 45 years.

4. She would change her clothes, put fresh lipstick and a spray of perfume on every night about 15 minutes before my Dad came home from work. She said she was getting gussied up to impress the love of her life.

5. After dating someone for many years, she asked, casually, if I truly loved him, or I was just comfortable, and unwilling to take a chance by being alone. I broke up with my then boyfriend about a week later.

6. She told me you can never go wrong with cashmere.

7. She told me buy classic pieces, take care of them, and you'll have them forever.

8. She told me to sit up straight, shoulders back, head high.

9. She never would have allowed a plastic tablecloth on her table.

10. She loved Frank Lloyd Wright design.

11. She loved Chet Baker, Frank Sinatra and Nat King Cole.

12. She worked for civil rights as a young woman in Milwaukee.

13. She met Hank Aaron.

14. She saw the Beatles walking into a hotel, and didn't think it was any big deal.

15. She couldn't do toast when she married Dad, but ended up being a fabulous cook.

16. She always said she loved Dad best.

17. She always made us go to Mass on July 4, no matter the day of the week, because we should remember how fortunate we were to live in this country.

18. She cried every time the hymns "Let There Be Peace on Earth" and "On Eagles Wings" were sung at Mass.

19. She had no voice the day after the US beat the USSR in the 1980 Olympics, from screaming so much at the TV.

20. She read everything, always. There was always a book by her side.

21. She loved answering the questions on Jeopardy. She was incredibly smart.

22. She taught me how to do the twist, "Pretend you're putting out a cigarette with one foot and drying off your bum with a towel at the same time." I was ten.

23. She made the BEST Thanksgiving dressing and potato salad. Period.

24. She always made all holidays special.

25. She always said "Put on some lipstick, you'll feel better."

My mom died suddenly on Valentine's Day night. She was a wonderful, complex woman. She was deeply in love with my Dad, and said on every anniversary that she loved him more than she did the year before. She will be missed.

Out of the Mouths of a Tween

2011-02-13T17:57:00.005-06:00

Today my in-laws came for a soup and salad lunch, and my 12 year old niece has a salad that consisted of lettuce, carrots and cheese, all in little neat piles, with nothing touching each other. I took one look and said, "Ah, M is having a deconstructed salad." She looked puzzled, and left the room, then telling her mother I said she had a decomposed salad. While her eating habits sort of drive me nuts, she herself completely cracks me up.

It really was a good, good night!

2011-02-07T06:29:00.002-06:00

Congratulations to the Green Bay Packers!!!

And MVP Aaron Rodgers!!!

2011-02-04T16:43:00.003-06:00

Both are VERY happy about green and gold day at school.

GO PACKERS!!!!
I even sent them a green and gold lunch!

Thinking Auction

2011-02-03T05:42:00.003-06:00

It is getting to be auction time at the kids school and now is when I think about what to donate. Two years ago we donated a Low Country Boil at our home, which was so popular that we did two dinners. Last year we had a Kentucky Derby Party. So what do I do this year? I loved doing the Derby party, but will it seen lame if I do it twice? I thought about doing a Sunday Dinner, you know... baked chicken, mashed potatoes and gravy, green vegetable, chocolate cake. It wouldn't be a special thing for my husband, but for some people gravy is not a common occurrence. I am already donating a Fancy Nancy party for 10 little girls, for which I have been stock piling all kinds of goodies. Any ideas? What kinds of things are donated to your school's auction? Any corporate connections that you can pass this way?

Blizzard in Wisconsin

2011-02-02T17:02:00.002-06:00

What do you do when you can't go anywhere because of a blizzard? Well, I:

did 6 loads of laundry

baked a batch of peanut butter cookies

made bbq pulled pork

vacuumed the entire house, okay well just the first floor

dusted the first floor

polished a silver punch bowl and 8 silver trays (to be used at an event at school on Friday)

baked a two layer cake, with chocolate frosting

cleaned the fish tank

printed out valentine cards

took the dogs for a walk

Gosh I hope they have school tomorrow... I'm pooped!

Questionable Logic

2011-01-31T19:34:00.003-06:00

Four minutes ago...
Me: Who got toothpaste on the rug in the bathroom?
J: That's not my toothpaste, mine is a lighter color.
S: That's not mine either, mine is a lighter color too. Mama, I know, we can put more toothpaste on the rug, then we will know whose it is!
Me:
(Yes, that would be dumb-struck silence)
Me: Wow, I never would have thought of that idea.
S leaves all proud of himself. And I am now going to clean up the toothpaste.

International Day at school

2011-01-31T17:30:00.005-06:00

This is my year as President of the Parent Guild. I had this dream/idea for an International Day at the school. We are incredibly diverse, and I felt that fact should be celebrated.
I asked parents to host tables about their country of origin.

They brought all kinds of things to show.

Generations participated.

Fourteen countries were represented by families at our school. This is the first of this type of event, and it came off swimmingly. We had an Ecuadorian Dance troupe and an Irish Folk musician. The kids each received a "passport" and traveled the globe. I was so proud of everyone. I feel this is my mark on this year.

Just Going for a Walk

2011-01-23T05:59:00.002-06:00

My niece, J, decided to take a rubber chicken for a walk yesterday.

She kept sayin, "C'mon kicken, c'mon kicken."

J totally cracks me up. I'm glad she is living with us for a while.

Friday Favorites

2011-01-21T17:03:00.003-06:00

My favorite movie is Alfred Hitchcock's Rear Window. Grace Kelly as Lisa Carol Fremont.

Oh yeah, Jimmy Stewart is in it too.
So is Thelma Ritter, who is hysterical.

Ah, Grace... the clothes, the jewelry, the Mark Cross bag.

So romantic. Who wouldn't fall in love with her?

Aren't You Bored?

2011-01-20T12:06:00.003-06:00

I was asked lately if I am bored staying at home. My reply, NO! I am busy planning school functions;

International Day (14 countries represented, a renowned origami artist will give lessons, an Irish folk musician, an Ecuadorian dance group)
Scholastic Book Fair (we are having a Royal Bookfair, due to the fact that the royal wedding is on one of our sale days... yum, wedding cake)
planning the food for the 200 people that will attend the auction (I'm too cheap to pay a caterer for what I know I can do)
Fancy Nancy party (this is my Auction donation, 10 little girls with tutu's, boas and tiaras, ice cream parfaits, french lesson and a professional portrait taken)
centerpieces for the staff Christmas party on Saturday
Spring Carnival (I'm not in charge, just a helper)
First Grade Lunch Luau's (this month is a Chinese New Year theme)
Camp Out on the Campus (we are having the Boy Scouts give a lesson on using a compass and an astronomer from the UW come to give a lesson on stargazing)
going through 80 pounds of unclaimed lost and found (how is that possible?! Come on parents-label your kids stuff!)
through in one kids birthday party (he hasn't decided on a theme)

I am busy, and as much as I enjoy it, I am looking forward to summer. What? I know it's January, but a girl has to look forward to something.

Wisconsin Wednesday

2011-01-19T17:55:00.002-06:00

I can bring home the bacon, fry it up in a pan...

Nueske's made in Wisconsin
Good enough for the past three Presidents, good enough for me.

House Guests

2011-01-17T06:13:00.002-06:00

S is in pure heaven. His Uncle, also the person he was named after, is living with us for about 6 weeks. He and his family bought a new house, that needs some work before they can move in.
There they are, the two S's, one dressed as "Super Slug" and the other as a very tired man with a lot of manual labor to do on his kitchen! For my S, the dog is a bonus.

Candice Bergen

2011-01-16T18:54:00.001-06:00

Can I be like her when I grow up?
The woman is beautiful

Classic.

Ages gracefully.

And gets better with age.

Mangia! Mangia!

2011-01-16T16:13:00.004-06:00

We drove to Milwaukee, just to eat at Buca di Beppo. And it was worth the drive!

When we walked in there was a sign that said, "Love means... never having to say you're still hungry." I think I may have to learn to needlepoint, just so I can have a pillow with that on it.
The shrine to the Chairman of the Board- Francis Albert Sinatra.

The shrine to the Pope.

Chopped Antipasto Salad

J with one half pound meatball.

Eggplant Parmigiana

Lasagna

S wore the perfect sweater for this meal.

Brownie, Gelato and Whipped Cream, oh my!

Friday Favorites

2011-01-14T16:56:00.002-06:00

I am loving these Monogrammed Cupcake Wrappers from Monogram Lane. Time for a Party!

Dave the Potter

2011-01-11T17:34:00.002-06:00

Dave the Potter: Artist, Poet, Slave won a Caldecott Award yesterday. I took this book out of the library, being a little familiar with Dave the Slave pottery. I read it first to S, who really enjoyed it, then J read it on his own. He was really excited when it was discussed at school this week, and he was the only one who had read it. Written by Laban Carrick Hill and illustrated by Bryan Collier, this is wonderful book to have a discussion about slavery with young children. The kids are looking forward to seeing some of the pottery when we are in South Carolina next.

We Got Ice Cream!!!

2010-12-31T07:38:00.003-06:00

UW Badgers Men's Hockey won 5-1 against the Massachusetts's Minutemen.

And because they scored 5 goals in one game, we got frozen custard cones from Culver's!
The Kohl Center... with Chihuly Glass Art. Dale Chihuly was a former student at UW-Madison.

Go Bucky!!!

J decked out in Badger finery!

S wants to be the Bucky Mascot when he is in college.

30 Minutes 1 Aisle = Patience is a Virtue

2010-12-30T10:21:00.004-06:00

Grandma gave them $10 each to spend how ever they wanted, this meant for me 30 minutes waiting in the Lego/Nerf aisle at Target, waiting for a decision to be made. I could have used a cocktail by the end of this process.

I think S is really rocking the newsboy cap. J didn't get one, so he has been wearing my beret (which I haven't worn since the whole Clinton/Lewinsky mess). J is using his loom for the first time. He really wanted one for Christmas, and he got it from the other Grandma. I really think he will be an artist of some kind when he grows up.

What I Bought Myself For Christmas...

2010-12-29T06:27:00.004-06:00

Stealing Magnolias by Debra Shriver

About her love affair with New Orleans
A Passion For Interiors by Carolyne Roehm
I have all her books, I like to live vicariously through her pages.
Maybe someday when I have the funds and staff...

The Great Lady Decorators by Adam Lewis
A look at the lives and careers of the pioneers of Interior Design.

Christmas Returns

2010-12-28T08:42:00.003-06:00

photo courtesy of Wisconsin Historical Society

One of my favorite stories about my Maternal Grandfather was about him returning a Christmas gift. My mother gave him a Pendleton wool shirt, and he didn't like the plaid pattern. So Mom, Grandma and Grandpa went back to The Hub (a store in Madison, long gone) to choose a different one. Grandpa explained to the salesman that he wanted to choose a different shirt, and the salesman said that was no problem, took the first shirt, folded it and put it back on the shelf. Grandpa took quite some time choosing the perfect shirt, one he raved about. The colors were great, he loved the plaid pattern... this was the perfect shirt. The salesman said he made an excellent choice, and sent the threesome on their way. You see where this story is going, don't you? Yes, my Grandpa choose the same shirt he had just returned. Mom and Grandma didn't say a word, just winked at each other and smiled.

Christmas Day

2010-12-28T07:04:00.003-06:00

Merry Christmas!

Santa was good to the boys.

J and S, along with S's new friend Stella.
(I think the penguin was named after a cute little girl in his class)

Future Quarterback for the Badgers, class of 2026.

They have been wearing these hats all over.

The Nutcracker Ballet

2010-12-20T06:49:00.002-06:00

We took the boys to see The Nutcracker at the Overture Center in Madison on Saturday. The dancing was amazing, and the set was absolutely beautiful. They loved the ballet, especially the sword fighting part. When it started to snow on stage, S turned to me and said, "It's magical." It truly was. I think this is the beginning of a wonderful tradition.

Christmas in the Parlors

2010-12-16T11:39:00.003-06:00

Filled with glass ornaments

A feather tree on the piano, with all the ornaments from places we have visited in the USA.

Middleton Place in Charleston, Mount Vernon, Baseball Hall of Fame, Graceland and more.

Candy canes for all the students at school.

Presents for the teachers and staff.

Everything gets taken tomorrow.

Christmas in the Dining Room

2010-12-15T16:00:00.001-06:00

This gorgeous ribbon I found at Nell Hill's in Kansas City.
These built ins were the reason we bought the house!
The silver and crystal are looking pretty sparkly.

Dinner table set with Lenox Holiday china, Francis I silver, Waterford ice teas, which I use as water glasses, and my great-grandmothers wedding wine glasses. The huge silver punch bowl was found at an antique show in Illinois a couple years ago.

I love the tablecloth, which is humongous, found at The Company Store Outlet.

Christmas in the Kitchen

2010-12-15T13:06:00.003-06:00

A feather tree with food glass ornaments. Between the blooming paper whites and the amaryllis, is my Santa chef.
The top of the cupboards are filled with Spode.

I love the extra deep sink, you can't see any dirty dished in it!

Care for some lunch? I found these cute nutcracker glasses at World Market.

The kids decorated the gingerbread house the day after Thanksgiving.

Christmas in the Living Room

2010-12-14T20:17:00.005-06:00

A place for the Christmas cards.
I would have started a fire and taken the picture then,
but since it's 10 degrees below zero, it's too damn cold! The silver dishes will have greens and roses in them on Christmas Eve. B gave those to me a few years ago, and they are so beautiful.

The Dept. 56 dickens Village. S REALLY liked helping with the trees and snow.
He has a good eye with decorating, and so does his brother. And, not to brag, but they didn't get that from their dad.

The candy cane tree

What To Do After A Snowstorm?

2010-12-12T16:41:00.003-06:00

Play outside for a couple hours, never taking off the Packers helmet.
Come inside and warm up with hot chocolate,
complete with homemade marshmallows, whipped cream and chocolate shavings.

Barnes and Noble School Event

2010-12-12T16:22:00.002-06:00

S plays Beethoven in front of an audience for the first time.

Good practice for his spring recital.

Third grade performing at Barnes and Noble.

J at the piano.

We had a school fundraiser at Barnes and Noble on Saturday. We had a great turnout, and hopefully will raise a lot of money for our school. I spent the gift wrapping for tips, watching the weather for the impending storm. Luckily the snow waited until I got home. If you plan on shopping at a Barnes and Noble store or online, before December 15, please use voucher number 10259307. Thanks!!!

Everything's Coming Up Roses!

2010-12-05T16:34:00.001-06:00

Looks like we are going to The Rose Bowl!!!

Can't wait for January 1, I'm already planning the party!

Hilfinger Ad

2010-11-23T19:09:00.002-06:00

I saw this on another blog (Thanks, Hopsy) and I love it. The vehicle is my dream car. I could see myself stepping into the scene.

Hallelujah!

2010-11-22T10:07:00.002-06:00

Check out the Opera Company of Philadelphia signing the Hallelujah Chorus at Macy's!

Welcome to the World, Baby!

2010-11-17T16:36:00.002-06:00

I am the proud Auntie of beautiful Emily.

Born yesterday at 3am.

She brings the total to 7 nieces.

She is perfect.

Christmas Card

2010-11-15T16:01:00.004-06:00

Christmas pictures were taken today. Thanks to my lovely and very talented little sister, Amy. She always does a great job, and the card has 8 phenomenal photos (the above is the cover).

She makes house calls, so check her out at Amy Hall Photo.