tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-55659564892730000552024-03-14T08:49:30.209-04:00Connecticut Charmlife and times of a 30-something stay at home mama twice blessed. married to a wonderful husband. loves all things pink, green and preppy. spend my time crafting, creating, shopping, and in any spare time, trying to start an event planning business.Connecticut Charmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00000044976067209530noreply@blogger.comBlogger77125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5565956489273000055.post-17468325366998773832008-10-23T13:11:00.005-04:002008-10-23T13:43:08.769-04:00Hello!Well, it's way past the end of summer and I had hoped I would get back to blogging once school started but better late than never I suppose! We had a wonderful, magical summer in Rhode Island and tons of visitors and parties at the new house. It is my dream house, walk outside and you are on the beach. Short walk to town, shopping and tons for the kids to do. Even though I live in Connecticut and we are close to the shore, I just feel at home in Rhode Island. I always have. I hope everyone had a wonderful summer as well.<br /><br />E started her new school and L started there as well in preschool. The school has far exceeded my expectations. They have a live pianist at lunch! and they are served their meal by waitstaff! But more importantly, E is much more challenged academically. She is taking both Latin and French. The music, arts and theater program is absolutely amazing. They recently put on an energy-efficient addition and they are teaching the children about solar energy and there is just so much more she is exposed to. We, as a family, have always volunteered but now she is doing it with school as well. I could go on and on. I love how involved I get to be and the parents I have met are very sweet and it is like a family.<br /><br />In other news....I am pregnant! Eight weeks along and everything is going great! After the ectopic pregnancy, we decided to just take things slow and whatever happens happens. Well it happened! We are so excited! We were planning a trip to Hawaii in the Spring but since I am due at the end of May (and I always deliver early) we moved our trip up and are going in November. The girls are very excited about being big sisters, especially L who will be 4 when the baby comes. E will be 10 and she is excited but she is more reserved about showing her feelings. She's more apprehensive as well. She's old enough to remember when L was born and she remembers the crying, etc. I regularly get together with a group of moms with children around L's age and three of them are pregnant, two just delivered in June/August and one more is trying now. So this baby already has lots of friends!<br /><br />Halloween is just around the corner and I hope I can get a picture of the girls in their costumes up on here. E is going to be a "Devil Princess" and L will be a ballerina. I made E's costume but L had enough dress-up stuff that I didn't have to. We have another couple and their children over to our house on Halloween for dinner, then our town hosts a party on Main Street and tons of kids go. A lot of the houses on Main Street are having parties and the adults dress up and everyone gets into it. There is music and lights and it is just a lot of fun.<br /><br />I have been trying to catch up on everyone's blogs, I seriously was unplugged (for the most part) this summer! I hope to be back in full swing with my blog, hopefully I still have some readers!<br /><br />Happy to be back, hope everyone is enjoying this beautiful Fall season and have a Happy Halloween!Connecticut Charmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00000044976067209530noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5565956489273000055.post-8798225580096638882008-07-09T14:17:00.002-04:002008-07-09T14:44:23.868-04:00Summertime Rolls<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1M_OfICoQvff77k3869zypbjIa3_pKWpfE9SadL998rLh0sgJ6iPWFOmC0bsidY_PrLEvK_C-bl4yDbTg3Ep-wxJABgdG98Cf0neD4D0Vgm0HsZ7YwNMciB4sIkt9T_g_Ai9WlzCpdIcN/s1600-h/7.1.08+063.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1M_OfICoQvff77k3869zypbjIa3_pKWpfE9SadL998rLh0sgJ6iPWFOmC0bsidY_PrLEvK_C-bl4yDbTg3Ep-wxJABgdG98Cf0neD4D0Vgm0HsZ7YwNMciB4sIkt9T_g_Ai9WlzCpdIcN/s400/7.1.08+063.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5221085392420898674" /></a><br /><br />We are in RI for the Summer and I am taking a break for a while from blogging. So much going on! Hopefully I still have a few readers left and I will try and check in every now and then but for the most part, I will be busy with the new house and kids and going to the beach!!!<br /><br />Hope everyone has a beautiful rest of the summer and I wish you all sunny days and good times with family and friends!<br /><br />By the way, in the picture is E with Mr.C on her first ferris wheel ride! They are in the back so you can't really see too well. But she did it!Connecticut Charmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00000044976067209530noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5565956489273000055.post-25185050662948352492008-05-31T15:52:00.002-04:002008-05-31T15:56:06.984-04:00Summer Shopping!With everything that has gone on around here lately, my husband decided I needed a break and arranged (well his assistant arranged..lol) a trip with some girlfriends to NYC for spa treatments and shopping! He just told me this morning and I am leaving Sunday night for 3 days! I am so excited so I wanted to share! I am off to my neice's birthday party now but I will add the details later today or tomorrow morning!Connecticut Charmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00000044976067209530noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5565956489273000055.post-13922346380273601492008-05-21T20:33:00.010-04:002008-05-21T21:22:54.260-04:00House of emergncies latelyI try to keep this blog positive but I feel I owe it to my readers to explain my longer than usual absences and delay in posting comments. Please know that we are all mostly well at the moment due to so much love, prayer and support from family and friends. <br /><br />Our E, who is nine recently had <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Appendicitis">appendicitis</a>. It was misdiagnosed 3 times by her pediatrician (yes we switched drs since) and it ended up rupturing causing very serious emergency surgery. By the time she had the cat scan at the emergency room, they said it had ruptured 4 days earlier and it was the most scary thing that has ever happened to us. At the hospital they would not even discuss the next day with me, they would only go hour by hour. It was needless to say horrifying and I still have not broken down yet, you mothers know that your instinct to be strong for them overpowers your need to just lose it and get hysterical. I try not to think of how close we came to...sorry I can't still say it. <br /><br />However, she has recovered remarkably well and it amazes me every day how fast she has bounced back. Children are amazing. She will actually be going back to school in two weeks! We are so blessed and I thank God and her doctors for her remarkable recovery. As well as all the prayers from friends and family and members of our church.<br /><br />Then I was hospitalized for an <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ectopic_pregnancy">ectopic pregnancy</a>. Another extremely scary thing to go through but it was caught early and removed and I am doing very well.<br /><br />Then it was L's turn just this last Monday. She woke up on Monday night (well early Tuesday morning) at 1:30 a.m. crying. My husband picked her up and brought her to me and she was burning up! I sent him to the kitchen to get Tylenol and while he was, she vomited all over me. She had had a bit of diarrhea that afternoon but her energy level was fine and she was eating and drinking as normal so I didn't think to much of that. We gave her a few sips of water to see if she would keep that down and she did so we gave her the Tylenol. She proceeded to vomit again all the Tylenol. I took her temperature under her armpit and it went up to 106.1. I have never seen anyone with a temp that high so we were trying to decide if we should bring her to the ER. We brought her in the bath and sponged her and after a half hour her fever went down to 103.2. I brought her out of the bath and continued to sponge her until her fever went down a bit more and she fell asleep. She slept with us in our bed (well I didn't sleep I was too worried) and she fell asleep and finally her fever broke. She woke up the next day absolutely fine! No fever, she ate breakfast, drank and had her energy back. Amazing!<br /><br />So at this point everyone is recovering so well and hopefully things will be back to normal soon. I know I should have posted about this earlier because I'm sure you all would have sent positive thoughts and prayers our way but honestly I just have not had a minute to do so.<br /><br />We are so lucky and thankful that everyone is well and recovering so wonderfully and I will keep you posted a bit more now that things have seemed to calm down around here.<br /><br />Please send positive thoughts an prayers our way that we all continue on the road to recovery and good health!Connecticut Charmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00000044976067209530noreply@blogger.com27tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5565956489273000055.post-30166620164293918232008-05-08T12:25:00.002-04:002008-05-08T13:45:01.745-04:00Mother's Day!I know I have been a horrible blogger lately...just too much going on and have not found much time to myself lately. But I'm working on it! I plan to start this weekend. One of my favorite days of the year, Mother's Day. At our house we do "Mother's Day Weekend". Just like we do "Birthday Weekends" etc. We love holidays around here and make sure we make the most of them!<br /><br />Our plans so far (or at least what I know of them!) will begin on Friday night when Mr.C and I will be going out for a date night. It has been a while since we have been to a movie for just the two of us so we are planning on dinner and a movie. I get to pick and I haven't decided yet what to see. In fact I don't even know what has come out recently! We will be going <a href="http://www.carmenanthony.com/woodbury_menu.html">here</a> to one of our favorite places for dinner. They always have the most fabulous salmon specials and I almost always get that. And I always get creme brulee for dessert. I am looking forward to dinner...if you can't tell!<br /><br />On Saturday Mr.C will be dropping E and I off at <a href="http://www.adambroderick.com/">this spa</a> for some pampering in the morning. Then we will all be attending a birthday party at a local park for a friends two children. I am very excited because this friend I have not seen or talked to in 9 years! We had lost touch when we went our separate ways for college (we went to high school together) and she called me up out of the blue a couple weeks ago. It was so great because when we talked it was like no time had gone by at all and it turns out she now lives in the town next to us! I am so looking forward to seeing her again and meeting her family.<br /><br />Sunday will be breakfast in bed (E has the whole menu planned out!) and then Mass and then....anything I want. Probably just staying home and spending time with Mr.C and my girls. That's really all I want to do. We have been quite busy lately and I am looking forward to relaxing at home all day.<br /><br />Next weekend we will be heading to Rhode Island again to do more at the beach house. I already love it there. The designer I hired to help me with the house will be meeting us there again to do some more work. But to me it's not like work, I am having so much fun doing it! I will post some pictures soon. E's room is super cute. She wanted a "surfer girl" room. Now she will just have to learn how to surf this summer!<br /><br />I hope all the moms have a lovely Mother's Day this weekend and I hope everyone has a lovely weekend as well!Connecticut Charmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00000044976067209530noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5565956489273000055.post-40922351759705640152008-04-24T12:14:00.007-04:002008-04-28T14:53:34.500-04:00Preppy Spring Swap goodies!!!!!I was so excited to receive my swap package the other day! I had so much fun with the Preppy Spring Swap and I hope everyone else did as well! Here are the pictures!<br /><br />The girls were so excited to open the box with me!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs2X9FX3ZmV1IR3E6Nwoug4AQCYgDcX-b6wwxWjoNzJh6_6B1rm05zq9LP7-6WKA0y8jF16RIw5sun1HAW7QmvBkxVXnPC7ul_zNEV8qVcjqxWRnTseYVGhtwWE3vJH0V5N1zNNeZgedyw/s1600-h/4.16.08+003.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs2X9FX3ZmV1IR3E6Nwoug4AQCYgDcX-b6wwxWjoNzJh6_6B1rm05zq9LP7-6WKA0y8jF16RIw5sun1HAW7QmvBkxVXnPC7ul_zNEV8qVcjqxWRnTseYVGhtwWE3vJH0V5N1zNNeZgedyw/s400/4.16.08+003.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5194361092875278562" /></a><br /><br />Me with my package, I was even more excited! Coincidentally, we were all wearing pink and green!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN3sDy4AUekEFGIc32ipBpmEYNg2wluICH9k4HgDGOEQ-YImJmXtJINGmaHCe7zETnmaMflT1htOMeITknlUiZNEdu8WVpRQGuEorCXtASg0-FN3o7tFddrqxz6MNKsb1QEntjfX9G41aB/s1600-h/4.16.08+008.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN3sDy4AUekEFGIc32ipBpmEYNg2wluICH9k4HgDGOEQ-YImJmXtJINGmaHCe7zETnmaMflT1htOMeITknlUiZNEdu8WVpRQGuEorCXtASg0-FN3o7tFddrqxz6MNKsb1QEntjfX9G41aB/s400/4.16.08+008.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5194361097170245874" /></a><br /><br />What we found when we opened the box, pink and green goodness!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH7OcmxkHIYnPWoGmF_y4nDJqXstLZDbobubv9GEVXGi8fGtO4_T6FbLzxYxpJhprj2UKddk1uVVUdskvEZd5KAXjkokYxUQR07a2X53xCWDmQMb16ya-unUqGyN6klXPYfeGPf2tezrSr/s1600-h/4.16.08+021.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH7OcmxkHIYnPWoGmF_y4nDJqXstLZDbobubv9GEVXGi8fGtO4_T6FbLzxYxpJhprj2UKddk1uVVUdskvEZd5KAXjkokYxUQR07a2X53xCWDmQMb16ya-unUqGyN6klXPYfeGPf2tezrSr/s400/4.16.08+021.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5194361101465213186" /></a><br /><br />A tote bage (I LOVE tote bags) embroidered in pink with my monogram held lots of treasures! The monogram was beautiful, Preppy Mama is very talented!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV-DeO28Z81i59IV0RYDNMN8kzaWmA8beU73IQlDgqCXa6TbM7Zr6zWHgn-daHn-QFy9mTBqhQ9nq5NwM51uRV9Lm3DFfGwnYygrNF2rcHFypL4KNFEtUenH4OaUZEMXnd2dHBZBqOUBjY/s1600-h/4.16.08+015.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV-DeO28Z81i59IV0RYDNMN8kzaWmA8beU73IQlDgqCXa6TbM7Zr6zWHgn-daHn-QFy9mTBqhQ9nq5NwM51uRV9Lm3DFfGwnYygrNF2rcHFypL4KNFEtUenH4OaUZEMXnd2dHBZBqOUBjY/s400/4.16.08+015.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5194361105760180498" /></a><br /><br />E and L were so excited to find a special package for each of them to open as well! I was so touched that she included them, she is so sweet.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFClS23ztDRdxGp-4W55K8T2dbuqp0-hdXthS4MCsnqhH49XJkT7gwWQarA5q2hNqysbSmkn0ZL5b9CLKvpjr2PcpUhd52GHZvdWH7oCWmA_6ZQ3SVVJVSohg6SqCYejp7RnpfzEtJMjwa/s1600-h/4.16.08+012.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFClS23ztDRdxGp-4W55K8T2dbuqp0-hdXthS4MCsnqhH49XJkT7gwWQarA5q2hNqysbSmkn0ZL5b9CLKvpjr2PcpUhd52GHZvdWH7oCWmA_6ZQ3SVVJVSohg6SqCYejp7RnpfzEtJMjwa/s400/4.16.08+012.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5194361114350115106" /></a><br /><br />Contents of E and L's packages. Everything was so personalized for them, both in their favorite colors. Their packages included (among other goodies) princess stuff for L (her favorite!) and for E, she received notecards with a stamp, because she loves sending cards to her friends and beautiful ribbons for her collection!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtUYAuavn7gvVh-aTXTTzyI2k0HfIgw1ZQK_hKJPFFaoa7bm2MPqB64b1JViOln71dlJpwA7O8GjJ_7ieqB2Cfsb0kEiDxfq-fcTjjLs6DgU7-AN8DGYn2uHsU991uwibpJUOeJaPVj9tq/s1600-h/4.16.08+018.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtUYAuavn7gvVh-aTXTTzyI2k0HfIgw1ZQK_hKJPFFaoa7bm2MPqB64b1JViOln71dlJpwA7O8GjJ_7ieqB2Cfsb0kEiDxfq-fcTjjLs6DgU7-AN8DGYn2uHsU991uwibpJUOeJaPVj9tq/s400/4.16.08+018.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5194366624793155890" /></a><br /><br />Contents of my package! Preppy Mama did a great job picking perfect items for me!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieBWh7_C_9On_py4aHtBXld6Ks4pbbYBzyIfjWKuNccxzDGiLEf_1j5wVXQkU3eI8g7t13VT7KBWjsQz272hE0HFq0_jZAMjoTW090SD-WoJEaPxD3cgLtVW4XjWwPmSYlrUn4oItWDMl4/s1600-h/4.16.08+023.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieBWh7_C_9On_py4aHtBXld6Ks4pbbYBzyIfjWKuNccxzDGiLEf_1j5wVXQkU3eI8g7t13VT7KBWjsQz272hE0HFq0_jZAMjoTW090SD-WoJEaPxD3cgLtVW4XjWwPmSYlrUn4oItWDMl4/s400/4.16.08+023.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5194366629088123202" /></a><br /><br /><strong>S - Sweet Smelling Soaps</strong> The picture came out to bright, but the soaps were beautifully engraved and smelled so wonderful!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggoopEkkSqSkYb27IF0hwTloRA12GT_OXbgmKh6VXfPbB8pho4cZvCvBgWFojbFkie58dtEw5lkW7AhiAxz1ef9AFkCFzc-nMDakV0cAxkueUCAL3IWeB2hUt7VOcy9cXQyBPHWeWz4x2I/s1600-h/4.16.08+025.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggoopEkkSqSkYb27IF0hwTloRA12GT_OXbgmKh6VXfPbB8pho4cZvCvBgWFojbFkie58dtEw5lkW7AhiAxz1ef9AFkCFzc-nMDakV0cAxkueUCAL3IWeB2hUt7VOcy9cXQyBPHWeWz4x2I/s400/4.16.08+025.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5194366633383090514" /></a><br /><br /><strong>P - Pretty Pad and Pen</strong> This was so pretty, and I am a list maker so I love having such a pretty pad and pen to make my endless lists on!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0creEWZp8NPPZYTH7_y5VRQf5jNqbqMLN_50dmCoIAMnlzbFVWqR22HSZe5lUgyXZPkRGPQ8IIgPRON7YJe30RdXtpo52cB69g9pUrCL2V3TvubKZKpGGVx5o6BFabIiqn5eJW_0Ybbyl/s1600-h/4.16.08+027.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0creEWZp8NPPZYTH7_y5VRQf5jNqbqMLN_50dmCoIAMnlzbFVWqR22HSZe5lUgyXZPkRGPQ8IIgPRON7YJe30RdXtpo52cB69g9pUrCL2V3TvubKZKpGGVx5o6BFabIiqn5eJW_0Ybbyl/s400/4.16.08+027.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5194366641973025122" /></a><br /><br /><strong>R - Ribbon Belt</strong> I love my new belt! So cute, I will wear it so much...I already have actually!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7Bp-UFS34FMWkICopWsKxwD4bUJ5ubPSJjw8jSMV-naJp_Pv7IRelWsgEC9jVsoJX-McAOHA3tEcdXT6iaXAP0-TkJFwZrXBM41HGWdocV_vZp0UQ5XstNMYLDVHuJc0hU1Kv_CC5OT6E/s1600-h/4.16.08+029.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7Bp-UFS34FMWkICopWsKxwD4bUJ5ubPSJjw8jSMV-naJp_Pv7IRelWsgEC9jVsoJX-McAOHA3tEcdXT6iaXAP0-TkJFwZrXBM41HGWdocV_vZp0UQ5XstNMYLDVHuJc0hU1Kv_CC5OT6E/s400/4.16.08+029.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5194366646267992434" /></a><br /><br /><strong>I - Ink</strong> In pink and green of course! One of my hobbies is stamping and making cards so I loved these!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpwgwf0ryPex5GU9JuaetKWiOCVJ5YqEGhSmwWE2n70J-x1jZnMGYMnIJm1BoTIeJvn3brt4A9kZjvzn91pRex_smPKk_826hwQDnX8HYncf-r4QDt-8b3VEtKkq8BGw8_YUZZc3N-aBBA/s1600-h/4.16.08+030.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpwgwf0ryPex5GU9JuaetKWiOCVJ5YqEGhSmwWE2n70J-x1jZnMGYMnIJm1BoTIeJvn3brt4A9kZjvzn91pRex_smPKk_826hwQDnX8HYncf-r4QDt-8b3VEtKkq8BGw8_YUZZc3N-aBBA/s400/4.16.08+030.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5194368767981836674" /></a><br /><br /><strong>N - New Kitchen Towels</strong> So perfect for Spring and I don't have monogrammed kitchen towels, Preppy Mama is very talented with monogramming. I think I will have to give it a shot someday. I would monogram everything in my house probably!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh11C8-bbP3nieZyirhO5EGWySt8Wv3spH_Opzcwh8IMA2ujDWxdEL6vIObw8AALYMH0JN-ylPLlW_I3NQDYdMLcunlL24I5RZpQ8Nxn-eY-GKGbMQge-iCKtBxwWAZtzRD-YZ30pSu916j/s1600-h/4.16.08+032.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh11C8-bbP3nieZyirhO5EGWySt8Wv3spH_Opzcwh8IMA2ujDWxdEL6vIObw8AALYMH0JN-ylPLlW_I3NQDYdMLcunlL24I5RZpQ8Nxn-eY-GKGbMQge-iCKtBxwWAZtzRD-YZ30pSu916j/s400/4.16.08+032.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5194368776571771282" /></a><br /><br /><strong> G - Goodies</strong> The whole family enjoyed these with me! Especially my fellow chocoholic in my house L who kept taking my M&Ms and trying to hide them!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXgrToZySecwulFhcMV-4PW9_urtUPsB_qJP7HNJJJeKSuOSPXlmQCkU_zYz3SGA9ZWjeNUwdTmVY0678q3xslUsz-6qASfYB20UTtUdgSK__ZtHGS3qqFueMYGL7jzOSfRCiKhitgf1no/s1600-h/4.16.08+033.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXgrToZySecwulFhcMV-4PW9_urtUPsB_qJP7HNJJJeKSuOSPXlmQCkU_zYz3SGA9ZWjeNUwdTmVY0678q3xslUsz-6qASfYB20UTtUdgSK__ZtHGS3qqFueMYGL7jzOSfRCiKhitgf1no/s400/4.16.08+033.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5194368780866738594" /></a><br /><br />Thanks again Preppy Mama, you did a wonderful job picking just the right things for me! I had SO much fun with the swap and I hope everyone else did as well!Connecticut Charmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00000044976067209530noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5565956489273000055.post-55721147515071252352008-04-18T22:00:00.002-04:002008-04-18T22:05:08.963-04:00Pictures coming soon...I promise!I was almost done with my post with all the pictures of my swap package when all of sudden, blogger wouldn't upload the rest of my pictures!!! Argh. But the post is almost done and I will upload the rest of the pictures tomorrow, hopefully. I keep getting a message that says my upload is incomplete due to an internal error. I tried a bunch of different times but still not working. If there are still problems tomorrow, I'll just post what I have uploaded already because I am so excited to share with everyone my wonderful package!Connecticut Charmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00000044976067209530noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5565956489273000055.post-10001504636438341672008-04-17T09:57:00.001-04:002008-04-17T09:58:47.467-04:00I got my swap package!Yesterday I received my wonderful package from my partner Preppy Mama. It was so fun! I will be posting pictures later today of all my beautiful gifts!Connecticut Charmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00000044976067209530noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5565956489273000055.post-42437014936233870882008-04-15T13:31:00.002-04:002008-04-15T13:51:26.712-04:00The other side...<object width="425" height="355"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/Xpj_leQUDx4&hl=en"></param><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/Xpj_leQUDx4&hl=en" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="425" height="355"></embed></object><br /><br />In situations like this, you just don't know what to believe. I wanted to post a video that also explained things from the mothers side a bit.<br /><br />Since I (in the past-but it never ends) have been involved with a bitter custody dispute, been harrassed by my ex's family, had them stand up in court and tell lies, I have seen how these things can happen. My ex's family are of a certain religion (some consider it a cult) and I try my best to be accepting of their faith. But my ex's mother actually told me "My religion tells me that I don't have to tell the truth in court because I do not hold the government, courts, police or anyone above my (God)" which she calls by a different name. But I don't want to offend anyone so I don't want to disclose that.<br /><br />Thankfully, I had a smart judge and mediatior and they met with E and they knew her father's family lied and awarded me custody. <br /><br />But what does it all matter when you see these children...they are the ones affected by all of this. Everytime E's dad doesn't show up for visitation, even though she doesn't want to go, she is still being let down. Every time he verbally/physically abused me in front of her, she gets so scared and withdrawn.<br /><br />My heart goes out to any children who are in situations of any kind that involves abuse, neglect, custody battles, etc. As well as their family members that the children do have that truly love them, whomever that may be.<br /><br />I am staying off youtube for the rest of the day. I don't close my eyes to these situations, they are all to real for me, however my heart can only take so much. I am going outside to play in the sun with my girls and hug them tighter than ever.Connecticut Charmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00000044976067209530noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5565956489273000055.post-29513499814753070452008-04-15T12:22:00.004-04:002008-04-15T12:30:17.603-04:00sorry if this makes you cry...<object width="425" height="355"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/uWow42TCwzg&hl=en"></param><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/uWow42TCwzg&hl=en" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="425" height="355"></embed></object><br />Turn volume up<br /><br />I just had to post this, it moved me to tears. NO child deserves any abuse and I can't stand it. I volunteer in a women's and children's shelter in a nearby city and it is just so heartbreaking what some children have endured. It is one of those situations where I want to do more to help these children, but I don't know what else to do. My husband and I have always said after one more biological child, we would adopt or even have foster children. But there are just so many children who need help. How can we educate these parents so this can stop? It just breaks my heart.Connecticut Charmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00000044976067209530noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5565956489273000055.post-87743350181634146492008-04-01T11:34:00.003-04:002008-04-01T11:51:18.704-04:00Thanks Everyone!I just wanted to thank everyone for their well wishes for my mom. She has always been so strong and healthy it took us all by such surpise when she had to have surgery. Then there were complications and she had to go back into the hospital. Nothing life-threatening but none the less it was scary.<br /><br />My mom has always been a role model for me to be independent, strong, and healthy and it was the first time in my life that I had to care for her like this. It was really hard to see her not bustling around the house, cleaning, picking up her granchildren, etc. I know my parents are getting older but both of them have always led such healthy, busy lives that they seem much younger and look younger than they are. So it was just a hard time to see my mom so helpless and see her frustration at being helpless.<br /><br />But I am happy to report that she is coming home and is doing better. She has a long recovery time for the surgery but with her good health and good will, I know she will do great.<br /><br /><strong>SWAP NEWS:</strong><br /><br />I think everything is all straightened out and everyone should have their partners information. A couple mix-ups but everything should be corrected now. The list I posted on my blog is correct. I made one change on the list due to a new participant.<br /><br />If you have an email with a different name than the one listed on my blog please email me as soon as possible and I will fix it. I think if that happened I caught it in time and sent you a new email, but I just want to make sure. If you have not received an email from me with your partners information, please also email me as soon as possible.<br /><br />Thanks for your patience and for participating in this fun swap!Connecticut Charmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00000044976067209530noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5565956489273000055.post-37103270334663598342008-03-31T12:00:00.002-04:002008-03-31T12:07:56.281-04:00Please bear with me...I have had a tough weekend and I am trying really hard to get everyone's names exchanged. There were a few mix-ups but hopefully I straightened them out. If your email partner is different than the list that I previously posted on my blog, please email me so I can make sure which is correct.<br /><br />Also this is my first time being involved in a swap, much less hosting one so I don't really know what I am doing...hahaha. But I think it will all work out fine and be a lot of fun!<br /><br />I have to go back to the hospital to see my mom, please keep her in your prayers.<br />Thanks for all your help guiding me through the process of hosting a swap as well as well as the well wishes for my mom.Connecticut Charmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00000044976067209530noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5565956489273000055.post-4180255182134968202008-03-31T09:25:00.002-04:002008-03-31T09:28:30.636-04:00Sorry for the delay...I have spent most of the weekend at the hospital with my mom. She has had some complications from her surgery and is having a tough time. I was able to get some of the emails out yesterday from my laptop that Mr.C brought to the hospital for me, but I still have a few more to send.<br /><br />Thanks you for your patience and understanding. I hope to have the rest of the emails out today.<br />xoxo<br />Mrs.CharmingConnecticut Charmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00000044976067209530noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5565956489273000055.post-42833597436177201972008-03-29T15:18:00.007-04:002008-04-01T10:28:21.950-04:00Partner List!We had a drop out at the last minute so what I decided to do is put my moms name in. I will use my address and email for that partner and I will give the gift of goodies to my mom. She has been going through such a hard time that I think it will really brighten her day. She is still on bedrest from surgery so I'll do all the shopping for her! <br /><br />Here is the partner list:<br /><br /><a href="http://jennifer-jslife.blogspot.com">Jennifer S</a> and <a href="http://aka-kate.blogspot.com">Kate H</a><br /><br /><a href="http://jillski.blogspot.com">Jill E</a> and <a href="http://mylifebehindthechair.blogspot.com">Kelly S</a><br /><br /><a href="http://thesealyatchisonfamily.blogspot.com">Scarlet O</a> and <a href="http://thepiedaterre.blogspot.com">Maria M</a><br /><br /><a href="http://thepinkclutch.blogspot.com">Paige M</a> and <a href="http://greenmagsterpie.blogspot.com">Maggi M</a><br /><br /><a href="http://mylifeinthepink.blogspot.com">Kate B</a> and <a href="http://inthelifeof5yearolds.blogspot.com">Sarah S</a><br /><br />Elizabeth P and <a href="http://addresstoimpress.blogspot.com">Hillary P</a><br /><br /><a href="http://wilasway.blogspot.com">Ali</a> and <a href="http://preppypinklizard.blogspot.com">Liz W</a><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://magnoliasmarriageandmanhattan.blogspot.com">MMM</a> and <a href="http://grosgraingarage.blogspot.com">Lisagh K</a><br /><br /><a href="http://caraismatic.com">Cara F</a> and Meghan M<br /><br /><a href="http://thirdcoastpreppy.blogspot.com">TCP</a> and <a href="http://magnoliamama.blogspot.com">Magnolia Mama</a><br /><br /><a href="http://southernsomedays.blogspot.com">Stacy D</a> and <a href="http://ificouldsetmysoulfree.blogspot.com">Sherry W</a><br /><br /><a href="http://crazygirlblond.blogspot.com">Erin B</a> and <a href="http://thepreppywedding.blogspot.com">Jennifer D</a><br /><br /><a href="http://wrsegs.blogspot.com">Amy S</a> and <a href="http://yardsalebliss.blogspot.com">Anne W</a><br /><br /><a href="http://connecticutcharm.blogspot.com">Amy F</a> and <a href="http://preppymama.blogspot.com">Gina F</a><br /><br /><a href="http://kimberleekrelations.blogspot.com">Kimberly M</a> and <a href="http://eastcoastjesses.blogspot.com">Cassie</a><br /><br /><a href="http://monogramchick.blogspot.com">Sara W</a> and <a href="http://impoverishedpreppy.blogspot.com">Impoverished Preppy</a><br /><br /><a href="http://boutiqueginabeana.blogspot.com">Gail S</a> and <a href="http://tickledpinkdesigns.com">Gabi R</a><br /><br /><a href="http://monogrammedbelle.blogspot.com">ATC</a> and <a href="http://pearlsandgrace.blogspot.com">Pearls&Grace</a><br /><br /><a href="http://kimsblankcanvas.blogspot.com">Kim in ATL</a> and <a href="http://lifeisbetterwithacuteoutfit.blogspot.com">Penny R</a><br /><br /><a href="http://shoeobssessedone.blogspot.com">Andie</a> and <a href="http://magnoliabellesmusings.blogspot.com">Christian M</a><br /><br /><a href="http://perfectisboring.blogspot.com">Lori D</a> and <a href="http://luvey.livejournal.com">Michelle H</a><br /><br />Chelsea W and <a href="http://somelikeitsouthern.blogspot.com">SLS</a><br /><br />Joey Michelle and <a href="http://preppymuffin.blogspot.com">Mary K</a><br /><br /><a href="http://preppypinkcrocodile.blogspot.com">KK</a> and <a href="http://wellidaclaire.blogspot.com">Kacey M</a><br /><br /><a href="http://kimeverage.blogspot.com">Kim E</a> and Linda L<br /><br />Okay hope everyone finds their name, if any problems, please email me at connecticutcharm@hotmail.com.<br /><br />I have to go to my moms now, she is not doing to well from her surgery but later tonight or tomorrow I will get everyone their email out with partners information!Connecticut Charmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00000044976067209530noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5565956489273000055.post-12436071619257512172008-03-27T10:24:00.002-04:002008-03-27T10:37:06.283-04:00Swap UpdateWe have exactly 50 participants (that worked out well!) and I will post partners on March 29-30. Thank you to everyone who joined. I think I forgot to mention that after you recieve your package, it would be fun to post a picture on your blog of your gifts!<br /><br />Remember to check back in a few days for the partner list. I will also be sending everyone an email with their partners information at that time as well.<br /><br />Hope everyone's Spring is off to a great (warm) start! We are expecting snow...boo.<br /><br />Thanks again for joining the fun!<br /><br />Mrs.CharmingConnecticut Charmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00000044976067209530noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5565956489273000055.post-51682800345277476132008-03-26T09:25:00.002-04:002008-03-26T09:33:30.656-04:00Last day to sign up!Today is your last chance to sign up for the PREPPY SPRING SWAP! If you just found out about it, check out the link on the right. It has all the rules and information about it.<br /><br />Most importantly, to be entered in the swap I need an email with you name, address, email, and blog address if you have one. This information will be sent to your partner only. When I list partners on my blog I will just list by first name (with last initial if necessary) or nickname with a link to their blog if they have one.<br /><br />So far we have 46 participants! Hurry and sign up today if you want to join the fun!Connecticut Charmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00000044976067209530noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5565956489273000055.post-86449611524788164112008-03-20T13:35:00.004-04:002008-03-20T13:50:35.716-04:00Swap UpdatesJust to answer some of the questions I have received:<br /><br />You certainly can go by a nickname for privacy reasons, just let me know what you prefer I list when I post partners.<br /><br />Also you don't have to have a blog to participate, when you receive your partners email, you can let them know a bit about yourself if you would like.<br /><br />Feel free to post on your blog info about the swap and a link if you would like. Spread the word about our fun Preppy Spring Swap!<br /><br />Remember to email me (connecticutcharm@hotmail.com) with your information to be entered in the swap. Commenting on the post that you want to join does not enroll you in the swap until I receive the email with the information listed in the rules.<br /><br />Thanks so much to everyone who already signed up! We already have over 20 participants and there is still plenty of time to sign up! This will be lots of fun!<br /><br />Happy Spring!!Connecticut Charmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00000044976067209530noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5565956489273000055.post-88481216385893354962008-03-19T12:53:00.003-04:002008-03-19T13:30:35.971-04:00Fun, Fun!So many people already signed up for the swap! I am so excited! For any newcomers all info can be found on the link at the right. Please feel free to put info about the swap or link to my blog on your blog as well.<br /><br />It is a dreary day here in Connecticut and I am stuck indoors anyways since I had another cortisone injection in my back. I just ate way too much for lunch...leftover St. Patrick's Day Dinner. I think it may be nap time...if only my L would nap. If she does though she is up until 11 pm and that does not work out well for Mr.C and I. We like to have our evenings together.<br /><br />I just finished some online shopping for Easter for the girls. Yes ridiculous express shipping charges and all. I have not had my act together with Easter at all. I don't know when the Easter Bunny started bringing gifts and not just candy but it is probably because E is not a sweets fan and I used to get her books, little toys, etc. instead. L would be fine with all chocolate but I always feel like I have to make everything even for them. If E gets gifts then L gets gifts. Since L will get candy, E will get candy, even though she won't eat it. Do I drive myself crazy with this a bit??<br /><br />This year my sister is having Easter at her house and I am SO glad. I am not up to it. I don't even know why I ended up hosting St.Patrick's Day dinner with my parents. But Mr.C did help out A LOT with that. But I am looking forward to a long Easter weekend where I don't have to care if the house is a mess, I don't have to cook the meal, I am bringing glazed carrots (easy recipe) and that's all. I really hope the weather brightens up a bit so it starts to feel like Easter time!<br /><br />Thanks again for everyone who signed up for the swap! And there is still plenty of time to sign up if you haven't yet. It will be so fun to get a cheery Spring, preppy, pink and green package in the mail!Connecticut Charmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00000044976067209530noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5565956489273000055.post-92056993968217324492008-03-17T15:03:00.003-04:002008-03-17T15:41:01.942-04:00PREPPY SPRING SWAP!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWex6nUdmi82SLuIupdINWdTJmxzKjWyJBZiTXiclgTVuUmPqTnoOMM0zFKAfgxwtN3tsmNQX0uArryGqTPSEvwtQJ-mn43oWpH3gV-KTGUmIJ4IsV4JRlgZoOoAyh9FO6w9YbrpF3uAvW/s1600-h/pink+flowers.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWex6nUdmi82SLuIupdINWdTJmxzKjWyJBZiTXiclgTVuUmPqTnoOMM0zFKAfgxwtN3tsmNQX0uArryGqTPSEvwtQJ-mn43oWpH3gV-KTGUmIJ4IsV4JRlgZoOoAyh9FO6w9YbrpF3uAvW/s400/pink+flowers.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5178789441302849794" /></a><br /><br />I decided to go ahead and host the Preppy Spring Swap.<br />I have never participated in a swap, much less hosted one so I'll try keep it pretty simple.<br /><br /><strong>RULES:</strong><br /><br />Sign up by: March 26<br />I'll post partners on: March 29-30<br />Send out items by: April 18<br /><br />Budget: $20 (not including shipping)<br /><br />To sign up: email me at connecticutcharm@hotmail.com with your name, mailing address and blog address.<br /><br />I will list randomly selected partners on my blog by first name (or nickname) with links to their blogs so you can check out your partners blog for inspiration! I will send you an email with your partners email and home address on the day I post them.<br /><br />Theme: Preppy Spring with a color theme of pink and green.<br /><br />Details: You will send your partner 6 items (somewhat preppy, springy) in the colors pink and green. Items can be homemade, secondhand, candy, thrift store find, whatever.<br /><br />Each item must represent 1 letter in the word SPRING.<br />Example (but not limited to):<br />S - stickers<br />P - pencils<br />R - really pretty picture<br />I - interesting Spring recipe<br />N - notecards<br />G - green ribbon<br /><br />Use your imagination and creativity to make things fit. I think this will be fun! I think I covered everything. If not and anyone has any questions, leave a comment or email me at connecticutcharm@hotmail.com.<br /><br />Happy Spring and have fun!!Connecticut Charmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00000044976067209530noreply@blogger.com26tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5565956489273000055.post-35799847764227415792008-03-14T15:31:00.004-04:002008-03-14T20:32:22.934-04:00Preppy Spring Swap?I have been toying with the idea of doing a Blogger Swap to celebrate the beginning of Spring. I have never participated in a swap so it is all new to me. But I have seen others and it seems like a lot of fun.<br /><br /><strong>PREPPY SPRING SWAP</strong><br /><br />Some ideas: Each item has to start with the letters <strong>S P R I N G</strong>, all items must be pink and green, with a somewhat preppy style. Homemade or thrift-store finds (or at least Marshalls!) works out great too. I was thinking of a budget of $20 not including shipping.<br /><br />For example:<br />S - Sweet smelling soaps<br />P - Pink candle<br />R - Ribbons<br />I - Interesting Spring recipe<br />N - Notecards<br />G - Goodies (pink/green M&Ms for example)<br />You can use your creativity to make things fit (P for pink and G for green is in there so that's handy too)<br /><br />Does anyone else think this may be fun?<br /><br />In the next couple of days if I receive comments that some of you may be interested, I will post the rules, dates, and how it will all work.<br /><br />I am SO looking forward to Spring and I thought this will really get everyone excited too.<br /><br />Let me know what you think!Connecticut Charmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00000044976067209530noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5565956489273000055.post-44487183544947668102008-03-14T15:19:00.002-04:002008-03-14T15:26:18.518-04:00Castle CakeThis was my inspiration for the <a href="http://jas.familyfun.go.com/recipefinder/display?id=50200">Castle Cake</a> <br />So now you will all see what it was SUPPOSSED to look like...hahaha. I did my best though. Cake decorating has not come easy to me but I try! The girls also helped me make it putting on the candy and frosting, etc. but I can't blame the lopsidedness on them... I don't exactly know how that happened. One thing is I didn't use the baking pans specified in the recipe, I used a large sheet cake pan and cut it, which made it difficult to frost because you know how hard it is to frost cut cake. Crumbs everywhere! I just kept filling in more and more frosting...I think thats why the kids loved it so much too-all the frosting!Connecticut Charmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00000044976067209530noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5565956489273000055.post-69750066421971241822008-03-13T13:34:00.005-04:002008-03-13T14:03:43.483-04:00Some pictures<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSNFjgq34bzK7IBljHYLcxIOU8KFeyrOuTEluwQ2Z1-NMDFht_9guPNyMIKnb_DB2lLA5GalI5jFLeTYeX_WeiDmIoT3N1-Wp4dTSaEYzsz3bF8m_7K4eM-oXuvpsPMiT6jMSXoMGQG3AR/s1600-h/2.7.08+102.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSNFjgq34bzK7IBljHYLcxIOU8KFeyrOuTEluwQ2Z1-NMDFht_9guPNyMIKnb_DB2lLA5GalI5jFLeTYeX_WeiDmIoT3N1-Wp4dTSaEYzsz3bF8m_7K4eM-oXuvpsPMiT6jMSXoMGQG3AR/s320/2.7.08+102.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5177281607134242994" /></a><br />My completely lopsided castle cake for the girls princess party...but they loved it and when asked what her favorite part of her birthday was, L replies "My castle cake!" Not the gifts, food, decoration, guests, it was the cake, so the time (and frustration) that went along with making it was so worth it. When I was little my mom used to make creative cakes she would see in Good Housekeeping or just make them up and I remember every one of them, the catepillar, treasure chest, ice skating rinc, etc. I don't remember gifts I recieved or even who was there...but I remember the effort my mom put into the cake and it means so much to do it for my kids now.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxPHi6Wn60ZBYmj_94ggJnCM1tQIQwztZlzf3_pZwGXIgQZ7JXmk5PLuIPSoSVY_NYx3gnyl0p1QA2Cg3mtKD6ob7iXYsLMPNTvNhKl5tLlQBDzGEJ17wwj-F3jk2rVslCr2GW-RcPRz3N/s1600-h/collage.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxPHi6Wn60ZBYmj_94ggJnCM1tQIQwztZlzf3_pZwGXIgQZ7JXmk5PLuIPSoSVY_NYx3gnyl0p1QA2Cg3mtKD6ob7iXYsLMPNTvNhKl5tLlQBDzGEJ17wwj-F3jk2rVslCr2GW-RcPRz3N/s320/collage.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5177283127552665794" /></a><br />For E's class party this is her Valentine's Mailbox. Have to brag, it was the envy of all her friends, but I love crafting with her so we got really into it. The cups are filled with Valentine's candy that she gave out to her classmates. I stayed up until 2:30 am curling all those damn ribbons. But they looked cute and I am officially "coolest mom in the class." Especially after scoring bunches of tickets to the Hannah Montanna movie and bringing all E's friends. It was a blast though. Even Mr.C went. Mr.C and I go back and forth about the whole "role model" thing but E has never been interested in anything like this, she has always been such a bookworm, so we figure its ok to indulge her a bit. It's just fun, and she's so serious that she needs a bit of fun like that.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMDcHHz48GV8Wu_Rxgg3aCzmaMlxdxUCLbYNiv7H5Eh2FSyzdUoKdY9nSEXBld_qzQ_zM9VVydKsCiuSNkDtxaCNidhQW7BsdNpRdh7io9b7PLI4TIAQGhaeVUX5a-Y-KGp_1MLY1kcrgV/s1600-h/collage.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMDcHHz48GV8Wu_Rxgg3aCzmaMlxdxUCLbYNiv7H5Eh2FSyzdUoKdY9nSEXBld_qzQ_zM9VVydKsCiuSNkDtxaCNidhQW7BsdNpRdh7io9b7PLI4TIAQGhaeVUX5a-Y-KGp_1MLY1kcrgV/s400/collage.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5177286061015328978" /></a><br />Maryland/DC trip. I think there is a picture in there of the backs of Mr.C, E, L, Mr.C's twin brother and his fiancee. You can even tell from the back how completely different they are for twins. The don't even look like brothers. His brother looks a good 7-8 years older than Mr.C (which is funny because his fiance is 38!!!) He's 31.<br />Oh - and notice Mr.C carrying my pink and green bag for me! It got to heavy with my back and all and he is such a good sport, doesn't bother him a bit to carry purses. Sigh...love him so much.Connecticut Charmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00000044976067209530noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5565956489273000055.post-5749864855611459622008-03-10T09:30:00.003-04:002008-03-10T12:06:30.460-04:00Random BitsAfter trying unsuccessfully to put up several pictures today on my blog - I GIVE UP! I finally have some time to do this and of course...not working. I will try again later this afternoon and will just have to spend my free time now browsing others blogs.<br /><br />Some updates:<br />My mom is doing really well, she had surgery and has a bit of a long recovery time but we are all helping her out and she's just going nuts stuck home, so we try and make sure someone visits everyday.<br /><br />I had a procedure done for my back that unfortunately was unsuccessful. It is a cortisone injection that we are going to try again. Sometimes it takes 3 injections to get relief.<br /><br />Mr.C had his wisdom teeth out on Friday and is doing really well. He drove me nuts as a patient because he can not sit or lay in bed all day, he wasn't supposed to talk and he was on his phone, working from home, etc. He is one of those people who if you tell him he can't do something, he will prove you wrong to the extreme! But he is doing better everyday.<br /><br />Girls are doing very well. E is having her CMTs at school and she is such a perfectionist that she has been obsessing about it a bit. L has completely backtracked with potty training. Cries and throws a tantrum when I try to put underpants on her. She was doing so well for a while...I'm not too concerned though, I know she'll get it eventually!<br /><br />I hired someone to help me with decorating the beach house. I just had so much going on and I really want everything ready for the summer, so I thought I could use some help. I'm still very, very involved but its been really helpful to have someone else to do this with me.<br /><br />Our friends with the baby girl who I wrote about earlier are doing wonderful. She came home and we attended a party for her over the weekend. She is a miracle and so beautiful. She has a feeding tube that they taught her parents how to give it to her but other than that she is great! She had open heart surgery that was successful and she is doing so well. Can you imagine as a mother being told your baby has a 40% chance of survival and then to be able to bring her home and have everything work out so well? I am just so happy for them.<br /><br />We will be going to Italy at the end of August for Mr.C's twin brothers wedding. Their dad has a villa in Tuscany so we will be staying there. I am so excited. We decided to stay for two weeks because we are bringing the girls and we want to do all the touristy things with them. The wedding festivities are going to be a weeklong event so it is going to be quite a good time I am sure!<br /><br />Will try and post some pictures later of our recent trips and events. Hopefully I will have better luck!Connecticut Charmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00000044976067209530noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5565956489273000055.post-86383921365271109302008-02-29T09:15:00.003-05:002008-02-29T09:19:04.081-05:00I'm still here...We have been away for most of the month it seems. We went skiing in Vermont and we went on a last minute trip to Washington D.C. and Maryland. My mother had to go into the hospital and have surgery so I have been taking care of her lately and will be for quite a while. So I may not post again for a bit but I will try. Just letting everyone know I am still around and thanks for all the Happy Birthday comments!Connecticut Charmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00000044976067209530noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5565956489273000055.post-43392196501446040982008-02-04T14:48:00.000-05:002008-02-04T15:00:37.717-05:00Happy Birthday to Me!Today is my birthday! We had the girls party yesterday with family and friends and we kind of added my bday on to that. "Happy Birthday dear E... and L.... (and oh yea you too)" But Mr.C has something planned for next weekend so thats when we will really celebrate it. Girls party went well, I will post pictures soon. Mr.C took most pictures and I haven't even looked at them yet. We went straight from hosting that party starting at 3 to having friends over to watch the game. We are Giants fans...so YAY!!! <br /><br />I can NOT believe I am 32. WOW.Connecticut Charmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00000044976067209530noreply@blogger.com20