Inspiration and Lesson Learned

I am moved to tears by the optimism, perserverance and attitude of Emmanuel Kelly. Despite his seemingly unsurmountable struggles, he does not let his disabilities get in the way of following his dreams. This young man inspires me to set goals and work toward their achievement.

When things seem challenging in my life's journey, I will think about Emmanuel's spirit and zest for life. The obstacles he has overcome make my "pity-parties" seem trivial. He sets an example for us all.

Take a look, and don't forget the tissues.

5 Years

5 years ago, Bryan and I celebrated our wedding.  Our journey has been both wonderful and challenging, but, along with Jeremy, we have bonded and evolved into a loving family.  I am excited about our future together and ready to continue the journey. Happy 5th Anniversary, Sweetie! xoxoxo

Quickie 1/2 off deal for Texas West BBQ

Hey BBQ lovers!  Get $20 worth at Texas West for $10 with a Groupon. We visit the Fulton Avenue location often, and kids eat free on Mondays and Tuesdays.  I usually order a salad I created, the Hot Link Salad; DH and Jr. like the ribs.  Yum!

Click here to buy.


Note:  This deal ends Friday night at midnight (or is it Sat. morning?) The Groupon must be used by 3/15/2012.


P.S.  Texas West is not paying me for advertising; I just like to pass along a great deal!

Meet Sandi

There I was, checking out from a Dr. appointment, minding my own business, when I saw it. A flyer containing a photo of  "Sandi," the cutest Miniature Schnauzer, looking up at me. Her mom had to move and couldn't take her along. How could I resist those eyebrows, the beard, and her sweet expressive eyes? I was in love.

I called Sandi's mom; we hit it off immediately and arranged a time to meet. Our whole family drove over to meet Sandi, and we bonded right away. Unfortunately, she had met up with a skunk, and she stunk to high heaven! There were a couple of issues: Sandi was 8 years old - how would she take to a new family at that age, and she had not been spayed - we would have to take care of that right away. We decided to adopt her, but we had to wait a week because we were going on vacation.


Upon our return from "the happiest place on earth," we went to pick up Sandi to bring her to her new home.  She had just been vaccinated and groomed,  although still a little skunky.  After a tearful good-bye, we loaded Sandi in the car along with a supply of food, her zebra bed, and 150 toys. (Ok, slight exaggeration - maybe 10 toys!)

It took a little while for Sandi to settle in.  She had a few accidents on our white living room rug, and she came into heat 2 days after arriving at our home.  Our 15 year old neutered beagle, Scooter, was very excited to meet her even though he couldn't figure out her intoxicating scent! After a few days of power play, they developed a good relationship, and they play together nicely. 


Sandi does not bark much, only to let us know when someone comes to the door. She loves to cuddle and does a cute little dance for a treat. We are lucky to add her as a part of our family.

Drink Wine After Its Time?

You know that saying, "Drink no wine before its time?"  Well, how about "old" wine?  What if a person (I wonder who?) has lots of wine that is "officially" after its time?  I say, "Drink it!"


Two days ago I opened one of my favorites, Latcham Vineyards 2003 Petite Sirah from the Fair Play region of El Dorado County. The cork was intact and wet with no sediment in the bottle - so far, so good. As are most of my old wines, the color was dark purple-red with no translucence.  My swirl released a light peppery bouquet. A smooth slightly tannic taste ended with a mild peppery finish with blackberry notes.  Delish! While doing some research, I found that this wine may be enjoyed for many more than the 8 years that this bottle has aged.


Because it has been 2 days since I opened this bottle, and a couple of glasses remain, I am having another taste to refresh my memory.

Aside - My DH, ever so helpful, reminds me that it is not even 5:00 in New York yet. I say that, if it's ok to drink a beer during an afternoon football game, a glass of wine is also appropriate.  At least I will not be bloated or belching.


Ah yes, I remember now!  Even though not newly opened, it is still yummy and definitely enjoyable. 


Result:  Highly recommended. Drink It!

Disclaimer:  I do appreciate a glass of fine wine, but I am no wine critic. So, my wine notes are very casual, extremely subjective and definitely not what you will find in a shi-shi poo-poo wine magazine. Read and drink at your own risk.