by the way

Does it get more exciting?

2012-01-29T21:03:00.000-05:00

I get excited extremely easy.

And I'm one of those people who when I am excited about something feels it's my duty to tell the whole world. Typically I dump it on Mom or KK and spare the world the bother but I almost always share it with you as well. A new book, movie, song, upcoming event, Winnie happenings, football game, you guys always hear about it. And, I must say, you bare it all with such grace. You don't know how much I love you for that. :)

I didn't used to be a girl who was big on classics. They never sat right with me - probably because everyone always made such a fuss over them I figured they had to be overrated (as it seems everything people make a big fuss over is). But the past year I have completely reformed (a large amount of credit for this goes to my discovery of The Count of Monte Cristo) and now that it pretty much all I read.... especially since I can get most of them free on my Kindle. (Sweet, right?)

One book I downloaded was The Woman in White. It took me two pages to fall in love. This baby is chocked full of drama, intrigue, thrill, mystery and romance. While Mom typically goes more for lighthearted fluffy reading I tend to prefer deeper darker dramatic stuff...I say it's to balance out the lack of drama in my personality. :) (Funny thing is that we still love most of the same books...but that's beside the point)

After I read a book I love watching the movie adaptation. I'm not a huge critic when it comes to movies staying accurate to the books but it only took one look at The Woman in White's IMDB page to tell me that there was no way you could convince me to watch it. The actors are so horrible for the parts I don't even need to see it to know that I will not like it. So, next best thing, I googled to see if there were any plans for making a new adaptation. The first hit made me flip, scream and loose my head.

No there aren't (as far as I can tell) any plans for making a new movie. What made me flip was this:

Did you see that?

No?

Well, take a closer look.

Still don't see it? Well, now look:

Yes, my friends, you read that right! Not only is there a musical of one of the best books I have ever read. That in and of itself would be exciting enough. But it is by....Andrew Lloyd Webber!

The composer among composers, musical mastermind extraordinaire! Not only that but you wouldn't believe who is included in the cast! We're talking Anne Hathaway (love her!), Michael Ball and *gasp* MICHAEL CRAWFORD! Could it get any better then that? YouTube has several videos that you can bet I'll be checking out soon and the CD is on eBay for fairly inexpensive (hint, hint to anyone looking for birthday ideas...:P)

"Who do you run from?"

"I dare not say his name! "

"Where do you live?I'll try to help you if I can."

"I have a secret. My precious secret

But can I trust you? But can I trust you?"

-Anne and Hartright from the Prologue

Thanks for bearing my excitement,

Näna

Sam Bradford...Jr.

2012-01-27T15:25:00.000-05:00

Sam loves his name. Seriously, I've never known someone who just really enjoyed their name so much. Since he was two or three he has known how to write it and loves writing it on everything. It's so cute to see S-A-M scrawled on letters, pictures and anywhere else Sam height around the house.

Sometimes, when he's feeling extra-grown up, he will insist on writing S-A-M-U-E-L.Which cracks me up how big he tries to act until I realize how big my little baby is getting. There is another person who goes to our church named Sam and whenever our Sam is writing a letter or a picture for someone from church he signs Samuel because, in his mind, that will keep them from being confused. Love the way this kid's mind works.

We are big Rams fans (really big). Ever since Pa was a little teeny Allen and he got a Rams helmet out of a vending machine it's kinda been our family team. Some of us have our own teams (eg. Mom=Redskins, Me & Sam=Ravens) but we all adore the Rams as our family team. In fact, I have been to more St. Louis games then Ravens games. Go figure. So last year when the Ram's 1st round draft was QB Sam Bradford from Oklahoma State Sam freaked out that the someone with his name was going to be playing for the Rams.

Since then it isn't uncommon to see him running around the house saying "I'm Sam Bradford!" What's even funnier is when Ellie is running behind him and says, "Yeah, and I'm MRS. Bradford!"

Heroes and role models play a big role in a little kid's life. Especially when we're talking little boys and the sports figures they look up to. Honestly most of them (read: 90%) I would not want my little guys to follow but recently I have been surprised at how many Christian athletes are coming on the scene. And you know what? As a big sis watching her little men grow it's a privilege to know that there are good men out there for them to look up to.

____________________

So close.

2012-01-23T16:12:00.001-05:00

So close as in losing-by-one-32 yd.-field-goal-attempt-by Billy-Cundiff-with-11-seconds-left-on-the-clock-that-would-have-sent-them-into-overtime close.

[source: afc north blog]
the heart breaking moment :P

Yes, I am speaking of the Ravens vs. Patriots game yesterday. We were all really nervous about this game anyway. After the way the horrible way the Ravens offence played in the Baltimore vs. Texans game last week and the way the Patriots offence creamed the Broncos I think it was justified. The Ravens handled themselves so well all game we were really thinking that maybe this was their year. But I guess it wasn't meant to be.

Since this was the last game of the season we knew the Ravens would be playing we decided to go all out. Nathaniel and I made cookies on Saturday, we made some finger foods Sunday after service and Emma decorated the basement with balloons and banners.

^ Joe Flacco (QB) Ray Lewis (LB) ^

Because the games always overlap with our evening service we record the Sunday games and watch them after church. We were thrilled to have a family from church joining us for the game (even though Mr. S is a Patriots fan...we don't hold it against him :P).

notice the Holly juice box on the sofa table? we even had purple drinks *chuckle*

It was an awesome game with a heartbreaking finale. They played so good. I was shocked and in awe. So proud! If you can't win at least go out with a bang. And, well, that just give us something to look forward to next season, right?

As for me, I'm still loving my Ravens. And you can bet that Super Bowl Sunday will find me screaming my heart out for the Giants :)

my very first piece of Ravens equipment from when I was 5, a Shannon Sharpe shirt that is and always has been way to big for me.
Now it's so beat up I've retired it :P

Who will you be rooting for on 2/5?

(it's okay...I will find a way to forgive you if you say the Patriots)

xoxo,

Näna

p.s. had to post this picture because it was on the Ravens site today and it's kinda how I'm feeling. Ha! Plus it's really sad that this could be his last play off game. Ray Lewis has made some mistakes in the past but I still love cheering for him...and there are rumors that he became a Christian after *that* incident under the influence of Shannon Sharpe...one my personal favorite players. Don't know if they're true but it would be really neat it they were :)

[source]

Jesus v. Religion

2012-01-22T00:00:00.000-05:00

religion = works

Jesus = grace
religion = continual
Jesus = complete
religion = dependence on our goodness Jesus = dependence on HIS goodness
religion = working to obtain favor
Jesus = love freely given
religion = self
Jesus = God

which do you believe?better yet, which do you live? Something to think about today as we gather together to worship.
Question is, which are you worshiping?
Until next time,N

Cinderella Man

2012-01-20T12:00:00.000-05:00

Mom saw Cinderella Man and swore it was an amazing movie.

We didn't believe her because, come on, the movie is about boxing.

But we watched it anyway. And, you know what? She was right.

I swear, someday I will learn not to question Mom's movie/food taste :)

Based on a true story, Cinderella Man is the amazing story of James Braddock, a professional prize fighter, or boxer as we would say today. He's got everything you could want - a successful career, a devoted wife and children he adores.

But then an injury causes his career to come to an abrupt end. At the same time The Depression sweeps across America causing work to be nearly impossible to find. Braddock ends up doing any sort of manual labor he can find when he can find it but even then can not pay the bills. In fact, our man even has to sacrifice his pride so much as to accept public aid. Now what he holds most near and dear - his family - is in danger.

Still holding onto the determination and with a strong dose of love and courage as someone said, "he willed and impossible dream to come true". Braddock gets a chance to return to fighting and his loves for his family is so great that he returns to the ring.

Soon after his return, James Braddock, your ordinary working man, becomes a legendary fighter and a hope for a country facing dark days.

There are so many things you could love this movie for. First, Russell Crowe and Renee Zellweger do such a fantastic job. I have yet to see anything by either of them that I didn't like but this has to be one of my favorite movies for them both.

Second the way the makers set the 1930's scene is breathtaking. The lights, the building, the clothes, the cars and even the way they made everything look like photos you would see from that era by keeping their color palette to browns and deep colors is so well down my hat tip to them

But the thing that will make you fall in love with this movie is, from start to finish, you see the struggle of the American people during the 1930's so beautifully portrayed. You see a father willing to do anything for his family, a wife supporting her husband and family and working to make the best of where they are. It's a beautiful inspirational movie that will make you want to stand up and applaud the beautiful American spirit our heroes.

Once again, I give this movie ********* out of ***** stars. I'm pretty sure that some day I'll figure out that you can't have ********** out of ***** stars because that just doesn't work, but for now, don't disillusion me.

So. Your thoughts?

Cordially invited.

2012-01-18T15:46:00.000-05:00

I'm the kinda girl who get's really carried away with things.

And when I say carried away I mean really carried away.

Such as spending a week researching for the perfect products and three more days assembling invites. Outrageous, I know.

But I'm so happy with the way they came out, I don't mind.

There is an indescribable sense of satisfaction from seeing something you've invested so much time in coming to fruition.

brown paper amazon.com $3.99//pink striped bakers twine etsy $11.99//authentique "common" 6x6 paper ebay.com $17.48//insert designed by me

xoxo,
N

p.s. click here if you love the free web

The Blind Side

2012-01-17T19:34:00.002-05:00

On November 18, 1985, Washington Redskin's quarter back and Super Bowl champion, Joe Theismann's, career came to an abrupt halt when he was sacked by Giant's linebacker, Lawrence Taylor. He suffered a compound fracture in his leg (literally bone sticking out of the side of his leg, shin broken in the center, half laying on the field, half sticking up at a forty-five degree angle). That has been dubbed "The Hit That No One Who Saw It Will Ever Forget". Both my parents watched that game and remember it vividly. This brought about the position known as "Left Tackle". Part of "the pocket", the LT is the second highest paid team member and is responsible for protecting the quarter back's blind side.

Hang in there girls! This posts isn't about football (I wouldn't do that to you two posts in a row! [alright, so I probably would])...it's a review of the movie The Blind Side released in 2009 and starring Sandra Bullock, Quinton Aaron and Tim McGraw. But without that little bit of info you won't really "get" the movie. Based on a truly breathtaking real story, Blind Side is the story of Leigh Anne Tuohy, Sean Touhy and how their lives are transformed when they take in homeless teenager, Michael Oher.

Michael's mother is a drug-addict in and out of his life and his father is out of the picture altogether. He has been sleeping at friends' houses and barely getting any formal education. Teachers give him grades just good enough to pass him off to the next grade -whether he has learned the material or not- so they don't have to deal with him. Sad statement there,but let's not get sidetracked.

To make a long story short, Leigh Anne is touched by Michael's situation and her and Sean end up adopting him into their family. When driving home one day there is an accident in which his brother, S.J., (Leigh Anne and Sean's son by birth) is saved by Michael's extremely quick reflexes -an essential quality in a left tackle. Michael shows an interest in football so Leigh Anne and Sean go all out trying to help him improve his grades so he can join the team.

There are some movies you watch for humor. Others for inspiration. But you watch this movie for the amazing heart in it. Seeing the way so many people worked to help Michael (teachers fighting the school board to help him learn, Leigh Anne's dedication to giving him everything he needs to succeed, S.J.'s devotion to him, the tutor working around the clock to get his grades high enough to apply for a scholarship), Michael facing all the challenges that came his way and protecting his family, the Tuohy family taking him under their wing) everything is just full of love. It's one of those stories that show there really are good people with Christian love left in the world. And, even though there is a good amount of seriousness in it, it's also weighed out by a good dose of humor, especially from S.J.

I love this movie on so many levels but one of the greatest things about it is that Leigh Anne's (played by Sandra Bullock who did an awesome job) personality is so much my Mom that when we first saw it (2009) we all kept saying, "Oh my gosh, Mom that's so you!" The scene where they are in the MVA trying to get Michael's driver's license. After they sit for hours, finally Leigh Anne pushes her way up front and says, "Who's running this place?" The lady points to a picture of the president and Leigh Anne says, "Well, if I were running it I would do a much better job." My goodness! I have seen my mom do that soooo many times over the years. And, when Leigh Anne she walks onto the field during practice and tells the coach everything he's doing wrong and completely changes Michael's position and view of the game by comparing the players he's protecting to protecting his family and then when Michael starts to play phenomenally says: "I said you could thank me later. It's later, Bert." Yeah, I've seen Mom do basically the same thing before :) If you asked me to describe Mom I would probably say Leigh Anne Tuohy with a Jersey accent. And, well, Lizzy you know what other movie character fits Mom perfectly. Mom, you're awesome.

The epilogue? Well in 2009 Michael Oher was first draft pick for the Baltimore Ravens and Sunday at 2:00 you can see him protecting Joe Flacco's blind side as they play against New England. It just goes to show that there is no past that can not be overcome and no life is broken beyond the point where a little love will heal it.

my rating: ********** out of *****

So. Your thoughts?

My dilemma.

2012-01-14T20:53:00.003-05:00

I have a dilemma.

Here's the deal: I am a extremely devoted Ravens fan (and it's not because, as you might think, they are from my home. If you must know, it's because purple is a very appealing color to a six year old trying to decided what team should be "her" team and her father would not at all like her rooting for Brett Favre). Have been since I was six...or was I five? Anyway, since I was a teeny tiny Näna. The only time they have won a Super Bowl was 2001, a year we probably didn't even watch because it was a really hectic year, and Nathaniel was born just a few days before the game. The past few years they have been an awesome team (can we say mythically awesome defense?), but they have not made it past the AFC championships, let a lone to the Super Bowl (typically because of a team who's name I would rather not mention, if it's all the same to you).

But this year is different. This year I think they have a chance. Ever have a gut feeling (you know the kind that are caused by too much wistful thinking)? Well, I have a feeling that this is their year.

Now, in order to make it they would have to be the AFC champions. Which would mean Denver would have to loose either tonight or next week against the Ravens. I couldn't care less about the Broncos. Where are they from? Colorado? For the team, I don't care the least bit. But as I'm sure even those of you who couldn't care less about football know that Tim Tebow plays for the Broncos. Even if you don't know what team he plays for, I'm sure you guys have all heard the name associated with Christian and football. Devoted football fans, remember when legend Kurt Warner retired a few years ago? Kurt Warner was Pa's guy. He played for the Rams (Pa's team since he was a boy...and no, we don't have any connection with St. Louis...another interesting story there) and led them in, as he affectionately call it, "The Greatest Show on Turf". We were all pretty depressed when he retired. Now, Time Tebow reminds us all so much of Warner...even down to his inability to throw a spin. It's always so refreshing to see a Christian that is actually having a impact on the world, so how can you not root for outspoken Tebow? Point being: we've been following him all season and are very excited about how the Lord is using him. And we really want to see him succeed and *not* loose his job so we are all hoping he'll win.

So we come to my dilemma.

Root for my beloved Ravens or root for Tebow?

It's a toss up, but I think I have it figured out. If the Broncos win tonight that will bring them up to play the Ravens next week (of course, I'm assuming Baltimore beats the Texans and Denver beats New England...which I have no idea if they will or not...but let's just assume they do).

So here's what I'm hoping for: Ravens v. Broncos next week. Tebow plays a good game but their defense fall to pieces and Baltimore wins. This assures Tebow's job, as (obviously) he is not responsible for the defense, and gets my Ravens to the Super Bowl. Flawless logic if you ask me. Just goes to prove, there is a solution for everything.

Now excuse me, if you will. It's game time and I have a team to root for. Go Broncos!

Until next time,

p.s. I realize that most of you are completely board when it comes to football, let alone pro-football, and that is why I resist the urge to post about it as much as I would like to. But when my Ravens are this close to the Super Bowl, I can't resist it anymore. Btw, big shout out to my friend Samantha for being the only other girl I know who adores football as much as I do. High 5 for the football and the '05 P&P. Plus she's from Maryland. Double winner in my book :)

It's that kinda sweater.

2012-01-13T20:19:00.000-05:00

Hello Ladies, gentlemen and all other assorted types of people!

I'm back! Not that I really ever went anywhere, I've just been really trying to get back in the groove with blog designs. And I think it's working because the last one I did was done in record time: one day. Yep. Crazy awesome, or what? Typically I spend weeks on one design. I'll show them to you later....but not now because that isn't really what this post is about.

This post is about a sweater and some of my family's crazy quarks.

And if you don't think I can do a whole post about a sweater, wait and see. Remember the teeth post?

Need I say more?

My family is extremely crazy and I won't deny it. In fact, we really enjoy being weird. People don't have any expectations for you that way. It's really awesome.

So let me tell you three three weird things about us:

1. we quote movies. a lot.

2. we have a habit of spatically walking up to people and making strange comments.

3. we love British humor. and i mean crazy, fanatically love.

In fact those three quarks are dominant in our family's gene code that four times the other day someone walked up to me and said, "I don't even get out of my pajamas until four 'o clock! And then I just put a sweater on like this!"

Which will mean absolutely nothing to you unless...

you have seen this bit of Jeeves and Wooster

to see the whole episode you can purchase the series here on amazon.com or watch instant here for only $.99 with Amazon Instant Video

and you knew what time it was

and you saw what I was wearing

Get the Look!

Mossimo & Co. Juniors Long Sleeve Sweater in brown from Target.com ($11.49 -discounted- btw, great price...I paid $25!)

Nick & Nora pajama pants in Gingerbread Sock Monkey from eBay.com ($39.95)

(similar to shown) Nick & Nora pajama pants in Red Downhill Monkey from Target.com ($25.48 -discounted-)

Merona Women's Ultimate Cami in black from Target.com ($8.00)

Nine West 436 glasses frames in Blonde Lavender ($111.13 -discounted-)

(note: no, i am not trying to pick on fashion bloggers. only on my extreme lack of fashion. ha!)

As I told Mom, I guess it just must be *that* kinda sweater.
(And, I mean, come on. Pajamas are awesome. Period. Try wearing you Pjs all day some time. Live a little. It's liberating.)

the winds of change.

2011-12-31T15:00:00.000-05:00

One of Pa's favorite thing to say is that everything goes in cycles. That's one of those really weird things he says (I don't think he knows why he says them and don't think he does either) when we just look at him and say, "Whaaaa?" He'll reply with something like "That is a sea shell of wisdom" and then we'll all laugh because of an inside joke.

As much as I would never ever tell him that, I'm starting to think that life really does go in cycles. The Bible talks about seasons and everything has a season and everything happens in season. 2009 was a really good year. 2010 was one of the hardest years of my life. 2011 was a rebuilding year.

There were some great moments in 2011. Our trip to disney was the best trip we have ever had. And I don't think I could begin to tell you why - it just was. There was a deep bonding among us all, we were all just able to completely throw off everything and just be spontaneous and fun. It was great. I also had the privilege of joining our church of many, many, many years. Since then I have really developed a deep love for our church family and excitement to be involved in ministry as well as grown closer to Jesus. Winnie entered my life and changed my world. Most recently, I read a book that was literally life changing. I switched from hating coffee to being one of it's biggest advocates. Lots of amazing things have happened.

But it was also a very hard year. There were a lot of relationships that had to be rebuilt from zero, things I had to let go, and things I had to embrace. I've had to do a lot of things that made me step outside of what I was comfortable with and trust that my Jesus knew best.

Here's the thing: 2010 was such a hard year that at new years I was really nervous about and not at all looking forward to 2011. It was more of a "do we have to go through this again?" and "let's just get it over with" attitude versus an earnest eagerness to see where the year would lead. I didn't want anymore surprises, anymore hurt, anymore sadness.

Tthis year is different. The healing isn't beginning this year...the healing has already happened. Now I move on. Move on in anticipation. Move on faith. It just hit me the other day that I am enormously excited about entering 2012. Even in the past few weeks I have seen things starting to happen. Who knows what will come from these winds of change?

Pa was right when he said that everything goes in cycles. It does. My life has just gone through a two year cycle of learning about hurting and healing. But the tides are turning. Things are happening and I see the stage being set for some exciting things. Most of all, I can say with 110% honesty that I couldn't be more thrilled about entering 2012.

Thank you Jesus for 2011. Thank you for working even when we can't see the result. Thank you for your thankfulness. Thank you for new beginnings.

morning by morning new mercies i see

all i have needed thy hand hath provided

great is thy faithfulness, Lord unto me

Welcome 2012

Life Snapshots

2011-12-30T12:56:00.001-05:00

Today I'm joining in Friday Favorites hosted by Finding Joy.

Because beautiful pictures by little people...

...gorgeous blue eyes...

...falling snow (finally!)...

...little red hair bows...

...and siblings who love reading as much as I do...

...are some of my favorite things.

What are your favorite things?

xoxo,
Näna

a very merry Christmas.

2011-12-29T15:31:00.000-05:00

pictures by the tree...

surprise visit from beloved aunt in Ohio...

cute baby in santa hat...

delicious Italian Christmas Eve dinner...

crazy moments...

new matching pj's...

opening stocking on Christmas Eve by candlelight...

grande peppermint mocha....

smart alec sisters clearing my iPod of all but the one song I really can't stand....

sneaking in on Christmas morning to watch baby wake up...

delicious Christmas morning breakfast of fresh sqeezed orange juice, Florida citrus and monkey bread...

happy excited faces...

worship with precious church family...

antipasto for lunch while opening presents...

aforementioned aunt dropping ice cubes down my back...

packages being torn open....

very exciting present from Pa and Mom...

10 brownie points to anyone who can tell me what i'm holding

caroling at our neighbor's houses...

popcorn, sparkling cider, egg nog and It's a Wonderful Life by the Christmas tree...

that was my Christmas.

what was yours?

Remember the Night

2011-12-27T14:23:00.000-05:00

There are some movies that never get enough credit. Hidden gems, such as this one: Remember the Night.

First off, it stars Barbra Stanwyck and Fred McMurray, two of my personal favorite classic actors. Second it's a Christmas movie. Those two facts alone tell you it's gonna be good :)

Lee Leanders has been caught stealing from a 5th Avenue jewelry store the week before Christmas. This is her third offence and it's already been proven she isn't a kleptomaniac, but on a far out story of her attorney's (the scene where he tells it is hilarious) it looks like the jury is going to acquit her before Christmas. But then the D.A., John Sargent, get the trial postponed until after Christmas. Feeling sorry for her having to spend Christmas in jail, he arranges her bond.

Now she's out but doesn't have any home or place to spend Christmas. John is going home to Indiana for Christmas and when he finds out her home is only 50 miles away from his, offers to give her a ride there and back. The trip has some hysterical "map reading" scenes...maybe they wouldn't have been funny back then but now with GPSs it's funny to see how they traveled "back then".

When they get to her home, she finds out that her mother (who she never got along with) has remarried and neither of them are happy to see her. Since she is not welcome there, John invites her to come home and spend Christmas with his family.

His family loves her, she loves them and she falls in love with the home and family she never had. And, of course, Lee and John fall in love as well. Which is great over Christmas in Indiana, but when they get back to New York how are they going to handle the trial in which John is to be putting Lee in jail?

The ending is one of those bittersweet-make-you-cry ones. You really want them to get together but you really want them both to do what's right. The more you see it, though, the more you accept the ending as the only right way.

Classic Disney fans will recognize the voice of Willie Simms, the hired boy who helps John's mother and elderly aunt out, as Sterling Holloway, better known as the voice of Pooh Bear and many other Disney Characters.

To wrap up, this movie is great. Probably not in the top 10 Christmas movie list but just because there are so many good ones :P However, it's a great watch, especially for after Christmas since it is one of the few Christmas movies that actually goes beyond Christmas Eve (it ends sometime after New Years Day).

I give it: **** out of ***** stars.

I know this isn't a too well known movie, but is there anyone else who has seen Remember the Night? What were your thoughts? Comment and let me know.

Only one more sleep 'til Christmas. (+ giveaway winner)

2011-12-24T15:19:00.001-05:00

Dear Winnie,

It was today last year that we first told the little guys about you. It seemed like it would be forever until you were born but now here you are, five months old! I love you more then words can say and am so happy to be spending your first Christmas with you.

Love,

your big sister

Dear Kermit,

Thank you for writing "One More Sleep 'til Christmas". It so beautifully captures everything that Christmas Eve is. You are one special guy...Piggy is lucky to have you ;)
Love,
your biggest fan.

One More Sleep 'til Christmas
by Kermit the Frog

Dear (great-grandmother) Carmella,
Thank you for passing on the torch of classic Italian Christmases to Mom. Baccala, smelt, anchovies pasta and Italian roast make my heart skip a beat. The Americans can keep their turkey.
Love,
proud to be Italian

Dear Ellie,
I love you. I love your spirit and passion. I love the way you tell the nativity. In short, I love you!

Love,
your big sis

Dear Michael Buble,
How on earth did you manage to make "All I Want for Christmas is You" sound good?!? I don't care what anyone says...that is talent. We've all enjoyed your new CD this Christmas. Keep up the good work!
(and obviously I'm not the only one who thinks that since after I wrote this I was at Bree's blog and saw she wrote the same thing. Ha! Great minds think alike, eh Bree? :P)

All I Want for Christmas is You
by Michael Buble

Love,
stunned

Dear Pa & Mom,
In the words of Neil Diamond, you make it feel like Christmas. I can't imagine Christmas without you. Thanks for being yourself.
Love,
n.

Dear Christmas Vacation,
You're a classic! Can you believe we've already worn out one VHS and one DVD of you? That just goes to show how much of a classic you are.
Love,
couldn't have Christmas without you

Dear Church Family,
We are so excited to be spending Christmas with you! You've been such a blessing to us and I pray that we will be able to bless you as much as you have us.
Love,
b.w.

Dear Aunt Dawn,
You got me! I was (and still am) in total shock that you are here spending Christmas with us! As Chevy Chase said, "I wouldn't be more surprised if I woke up tomorrow with my head stapled to the carpet." Christmas is going to be great with you here.
Love,
martha stewart

Dear 109 Awesome People,
Thank you for reading. Thank you for three great years. You challenge, encourage and bless me. All I can say is, thank you. Merry Christmas, you guys! Hope each of you has a fantastic day!
Love,
näna

Dear Stephanie from A Kings Bookworm,

You won the Christmas giveaway! Comment #4 on Random.org. Congrats! Email me your address and we'll get that on it's way to you. Thanks to all who enetered! Everyone else, go visit Fancy and Funky and check out some of their gorgeous pieces...so cute and affordable! Only $2 for an adorable pair of earrings? Can't beat that.

Love,

your friend and the giveaway host

Dear Maryland Weather,
I hate your inconsistency. Please, please, please could we have a white Christmas?
Love,
the yankee girl who is used to snow

Dear Maura Sullivan,
Thank you so much for writing and singing a Christmas tribute to our town! Every time Christmas Eve in Washington comes on the radio we all freeze and turn it up. Ha! We're as proud of our town as you are.

Christmas Eve in Washington
by Maura Sullivan

Love,
d.c. gal

Dear God,
Thank you, thank you, thank you. Thank you for humbling yourself and coming to earth. Thank you for dying on the cross for me. Thank you for taking a interest in my life. Thank you for loving me. Thank you, thank you, thank you.
Love,
was blind but now i see

Last chance...

2011-12-23T11:03:00.001-05:00

This is your very last chance to enter the adorable Christmas earrings from Fancy and Funky! Giveaway closes at midnight tonight and the winner will be announce shortly after. So head over here and enter!

The lights are dancing.

2011-12-19T21:57:00.000-05:00

I love Christmas lights.
I really love Christmas lights.

I love "The Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights" at Disney's Hollywood Studios.
I love being inspired.

I love LED lights.
I really love 6,000 LED lights.

I love standing back and looking at the finished product.
I love the feeling of accomplishment.

I love when neighbors recognize you as "the house with the dancing lights".

(I really don't know weather it's good or not that they always mention how they go to steady after a while)

I love putting them up the day after Thanksgiving.

I love sitting in the living room and watching the gorgeous display.

I love bringing joy to others.
I really love bringing it to them in simple ways.

I love planning to increase our display to 10,000 next year.

And I really love.... ...my dancing lights.
What are you loving this holiday season?
p.s. be sure to click here and enter the Christmas giveaway

The Christmas Giveaway

2011-12-17T08:07:00.000-05:00

I was thrilled when a sweet friend of mine, Marie, contacted me about hosting a giveaway for her new jewelry blog, Fancy and Funky she started in October with her sister Titty. I adore both these girls and they make such adorable pieces that I was glad for the opportunity to promote their growing business. And being Christmas, what could be better then a Christmas giveaway?

To enter:

(leave a separate comment for each entry)

- follow Fancy and Funky (mandatory) and comment saying you do

-comment and tell me your favorite thing for sale at F&F

-tell me your absolute favorite Christmas song

The giveaway closes December 23rd so hurry up and enter!

Cheers!
Näna

I'm feeling miscellaneous.

2011-12-15T16:12:00.000-05:00

Few things reduce me to shouting in a Giant Eagle parking lot. I swear it was completely uncontrollable Monday night when I actually shouted for joy about finals *finally* being over. Don't get me wrong...typically I really enjoy studying and taking the finals and it's sad to see the semester draw to a close. This semester has just been sooo hard with being away (collectively) for a month, the cantata, the holidays and everything else that has come my way. I know it's going to be even harder when I get to college but this semester sure was a challenge, emotionally as well as academically.

Speaking of finals, I've decided that studying is not good for my sanity. When I study I do things like this:

Ha! You think that's weird, you should see the one with dates written all over the page. I refuse to post her though, as her one eye made her look like she had been punched :) Hey, I didn't forget 605-536 BC.

I've been so busy with everything else there are so many things I haven't gotten around to posting. I just want to touch on them quickly so looking back they will not be forgotten.

First, Thanksgiving. There *has* to be something about that somewhere on here. Don't want to forget it happened, now do we ;)

We kept it small this year with only five non-Wachter people. Aunt Dawn came in the night before and stayed for the weekend. That night I talked her into helping me make the place cards for the table (inspired by Martha Stewart, of course :P) while we watched The Cheaters. I think it was 1am before we got to bed, but they came our really cute! :)

Aunt Dawn sneaking in some Winnie holding time.

Getting to hold baby while Aunt Dawn is here is virtually impossible :D

Every year the Thanksgiving menu changes...except for two things. New England Sausage and Cranberry Dressing and Shiitake Mushroom gravy (both recipes from Bon Appetite). We've been making them for 10+ years and probably will until the end of time.

I think cutting the turkey is one of those man things...you know like grilling and lawn mowers. Check the apron Pa borrowed from the boys...ha!

Like everyone else, year after year we made a typical dry turkey that was really only good on sandwiches. Until we started ordering from Hillside Turkey Farm, a locally owned business. They have the best (and I mean the best) turkey. Naturally raised, smoked, turkey breast. So juicy and delicious, not to mention the fact that it only takes 10 minutes of prep time.

I love the way this picture really captures the whole feel of the holidays.

After dinner, our friends/neighbors, the Rutters, stopped by for dessert.

Of course, there was some Winnie holding involved as well.

Mrs. Brown is a kindergarten teacher and we couldn't help but laugh when she had us all making these little M&M turkeys. She is one great teacher! They were so cute and fun to make...not to mention tasty.

The cantata was Sunday night and couldn't have gone better. After dress rehearsal on Saturday we were all unsure as to how it would be but there was a a lot of praying and went off with very few emergencies. We had 32 friends who were coming so we were so wrapped up with visiting with them we didn't take a single picture! I'm going to see if I can get a few from somebody else and, if I can, I'll post them here as well as show you a video of the whole program. For now, just know that is was amazing, blessed by God, and we all had a great time being a part of it.

Can you imagine that my little Ellie is already 4? Quick view of her birthday, which consisted of being waken by balloons, Rapunzel hair, Chuck-E-Cheese, Chick-fil-a and birthday tarts:

And while I'm on a roll posting picture, a few from the "end of finals" party...this happens to be Pa and Mom's last semester before graduation so that made it extra special :)

KK, Mom and I made these little Christmas goody bags for all the students about thirty minutes before the class and left them on their desks.

The buffet line...there was so much food I didn't even eat dinner. Ha!

Little Hannah, the daughter of one of the students, kept us all entertained. She is such a sweetie.

I think that brings us up to date on recent happenings. Just two more things and then I'm finished :) I made an FAQ page because I really enjoy reading them on other people's blogs. Only problem, I don't know what questions you guys ask me frequently. So go ahead and let me know what you would want to know just arriving at By the Way or what questions you want to know the answer to.

Stay tuned because I have a very exciting Christmas giveaway coming up in only two days...

Love & Merry Christmas,

Näna

The taste of Christmas.

2011-12-09T16:41:00.000-05:00

Maybe when you think of the many tastes associated with Christmas what comes to mind are the Christmas cookies, pies, turkey and other traditional favorites. But I have never been traditional and those things are probably the furthest from my mind when I think of Christmas food. Especially the turkey. When did turkey ever become a Christmas food? Give me some good baccala any day.

For me, the Christmas season has officially started when Starbucks starts to serve their holiday drinks (actually all my seasons start when Starbucks seasonal drinks switch over). Peppermint mocha, eggnog latte...perfect for getting in the holiday mood.

The only problem is who wants to drive to Starbucks every time a craving hits you. And who can afford the $4 every time? That is why Mom and I have come up with a Peppermint Mocha and Eggnog Latter recipe to save our wallet and satisfy our cravings at the same time.

Coming up with these recipes was...interesting. The first five takes of the peppermint mocha made me sick (literally). It was this overpowering, chalky, goop. Not nice. Our big breakthrough was when Mom came up with the *perfect* mocha syrup and a $10 investment in some of Starbucks' peppermint syrup. Eureka!

Starbucks Peppermint Mocha

part one: the mocha syrup

1 c. sugar

1/2 c. cocoa

1/8 t. salt

2/3 c. hot water

1. Combine all in a small saucepan.

2. Stirring constantly, bring ingredient to a boil. Boil for one minute.

3. Turn off heat and cool before storing in an container.

part two: assembly

2 shots espresso

half-and-half or milk
2 T. mocha syrup

1 pump peppermint syrup

whipped cream (optional)

1. Brew your espresso.

2. While that is brewing, fill your cup one third of the way with half-and-half or milk (Note: do not use flavored creamers!)

3. Add your mocha syrup and microwave for 30 second, 1 minute for more then one cup. (Note: heating the milk in the mug warms the mug and keeps your coffee warm longer).

4. Add one pump of Starbucks' peppermint syrup to your milk or half-and-half.

5. Your espresso should be finished by this point so add that to your mug.

6. Top with whipped cream. I also sprinkle with this chocolaty powerder stuff we have, but this is optional. You could do crushed candy cane, shaved chocolate, mini chocolate chips or red sprinkles. This is a fun step to experiment with.

Starbucks Eggnog Latte

2 shots espresso
eggnog
whipped cream
nutmeg

1. Brew your espresso.

2. While the espresso is brewing, fill your mug half way with eggnog and microwave for 30 seconds.

3. Add the espresso to your mug, top with whipped cream, sprinkle with nutmeg and enjoy!

The last step to both these recipes, is turn on Christmas music and cuddle up with your coffee...but that's a given.

Go ahead and comment if you try these out and tell me what you think of them.

Blessings.
Näna

Something to look forward to

2011-12-03T21:05:00.001-05:00

I love having something to look forward to. Christmas, birthdays, vacations, visits with friends. It makes you excited to move forward and for life to go on. Even little things like movies get me excited about tomorrow.

This has been an fantastic year for new releases. I think every month there has been something I really wanted to see. Courageous, the new Pooh Bear movie, The Help, Cars 2, Mr. Popper's Penguins...not all of which I have seen yet but still I can't wait to see them when they come on DVD. But still coming are Tin Tin, Brave, War Horse, and....THE MUPPET MOVIE (let's hear it for Muppet domination!).

I can not tell you how long I've been waiting for someone to make a movie of Tin Tin. Explorer magazine (sadly, no longer in publication) was, and still is, my all time favorite magazine just because it ran Tin Tin :) I can remember even before I was six spending summers reading them over and over and over. I've always loved adventures. And when I found Steven Spielberg would be directing it...I may have been just a little excited :)

I'm always impatient for Pixar's summer movie to come out but especially this year with Brave. Not quite as excited as I was about Cars 2 but close :) It just looks so fun and different. And you know Pixar will do a brilliant job.

I first saw a poster for War Horse waiting in line for The Backlot Tour at Hollywood Studios. Mom and I both rolled our eyes at the idea of yet another horse movie but then we saw the trailer and decided that it looked really good. Just goes to show, never trust a movie by it's poster...or something like that.
Best for last (say it with me now...you know you want to) Muppet Domination! No, that's not the name of the movie but it's fun to say...and it's true. My dear, darling Muppets are back...and Amy Adams is with them. Someone catch me before I faint.
Btw, they get two trailers...because they're awesome like that (and this is too funny not to post).

I haven't even gotten into Planes, Sherlock Holmes 2 and many, many more awesome things coming out.
So. What are you looking forward to?
Oh, and have any of you see The Secret of Jonathan Sperry? I had never heard of it until we saw it at church last night and it turned out to be so good. And it starred Gavin MacLeod (Operation Petticoat) which was pretty neat. If you don't know who he is, look him up on Wikipedia and read his testimony...very fascinating.
Merry Christmas!
Näna
p.s. Real posts coming soon...this week has been so busy this is basically the first time I've been online for more then two minutes (amazing, right?).

I'm Home

2011-11-23T15:47:00.001-05:00

Hello, people!

Sunday night around 7:30PM I arrived to a very wet and cold Maryland. But you know what? I didn't mind. Because, as awesome as our vacation was (probably the best yet!) and how great it was to be able to brag about 80 degree weather when it was only 20 here, when the leaves are still green and on the trees and you're wearing short sleeves it really doesn't feel like Thanksgiving is just a few short days away. The 50 degrees and rain of today while the house is filled with the sounds of 97.1's Christmas music, smells of food being prepared for tomorrow, and excitement of the holidays - now that is Thanksgiving weekend. Aunt Dawn arrived this evening and will be staying for the weekend. Tomorrow Uncle Frank and some friends are coming over. It's going to be great. Thanksgiving is such a great holiday. Christmas is good, but when it's over that's it. The Christmas season is over for a whole year. But Thanksgiving is the big kick off surrounded with tree putting up, Christmas music and movies, hanging Christmas lights, and tons of other things.

On another note, before I Google it, does anyone have a recipe for Starbuck's peppermint mocha? I promised to make Aunt Dawn some but thought I'd check and see if anyone of you already have a good recipe.

This doesn't really go with the Thanksgiving/holiday talk but I just saw that Abigail Kraft of one of my absolute favorite blogs on the web, Rear Window, is hosting a blog party and I just have to join in before it ends. Most of you already know me, but for new friends stopping by for the first time...

Hi! I'm Brianna (or Näna...whichever you prefer). This is me (the one with the glasses) in a really bad picture and these are some totally random facts about me:

1. What is the nerdiest/weirdest/geekiest thing about you?
Oh, this is a hard one...there are so many things I could say here. An aunt of mind once said that I wasn't a girl I was a geek. Still haven't found out if that was supposed to be a compliment or not, but I take it as one :P Let's see...I'm a die-hard PC/Windows/Bill Gates gal and have sworn to never marry a Mac person (on going inside joke there...), I cried (literally) when my hard drive died, electronic shopping beats clothes shopping every day...oh, I have dreams where the whole thing is just me working on the computer (too weird for words...I know).

2. If you could live in any fictional universe from any book, movie, or television show, what would it be?
Either in a Star Wars galaxy defending the universe or in one of those spy action/thrillers. Wouldn't that be the greatest?

3. Little of big, practical of frivolous, what is one of your favorite items in your house?
The back wall in our theater, hands down. I'm not going to post a picture because we still have three things to hang but I will whenever we get around to them.

4. Do you like animated movie? If so, what is your favorite?
Oh, yeah! How can you not like animated movie? Sooo awesome. Anything by Pixar is incredible but to be more specific, my favorites are Cars, Ratatouille, and Up.

5. What is your favorite household chore?
It would have to be tidying. Yes, definitely tidying. Very quickly you change the whole room by just putting a few things away.

6. What is your favorite thing to get at Starbucks (or your favorite coffee shop)?
Another hard one! It depends on the season. I thought it was funny that Abigail said half pump of syrup peppermint mocha was her favorite because that is exactly what I ordered last night and have the past several visits. My current love.

7. What is your favorite pizza topping?
Sausage, pepper and anchovies (love being Italian, baby!)

8. Waffles or pancakes?
Waffles all the way. While we were down in Disney we were actually snacking on waffles pretty much all the time.

9. Do you like to play games? If so, what is your favorite?
Yes, yes, yes! I am very competitive and love a good challenge. Favorties: Chess, Spades, Taboo. I'm lousy at them all (except for Taboo) but I still have a blast playing them :)

10. Have you ever let anyone win a game?
I let the little guys will all the time...but only when I'm in a good mood :P

11. Have you ever dyed your hair?
No, but as soon as I see a gray hair I will.

12. Do you make your bed every morning?
My day isn't started until I have makeup on and my bed is made.

13. Picasso or Norman Rockwell
Norman Rockwell all the way. Love his classic American family.

14. Do you like carpet, tile, or hardwood floors?
Hardwood!!! We are little by little transferring our house to all hardwood. It looks sooo much better and is so much better for you.

15. If you could put one thing in a safe under your bed, what would it be?
All our scrapbooks and photos that have not been scanned in yet.

16. What is your favorite condiment?
Hellmanns mayonnaise or Chick-fil-a's honey roasted barbecue.

17. Have you ever thrown up on someone (excluding when you were a child)?

No, but I did throw up on Mom when I was little...which did not go over big :) Mom's tough but she does not do vomit.

18. What was the last thing that made you laugh?
Winnie staring fixed at the TV. It's bad for her eyes so we don't let her watch it but it is funny that way she's fascinated with any sort of light.

19. Think fast...what's the first song that pops into your head?
Home for the Holidays by Perry Como....it's playing on the radio and a personal favorite of Aedan's.

Well, there you have it! Head over to Rear Window and link up for some authentic fun. And I just want to say, with Thanksgiving being tomorrow and all, I'm very thankful for authentic people - specially, my mom who is as authentic as you get. She has been working on a guest post for some people that will go up tomorrow and if I could only use one word to describe it, it would be authentic. She's really poured a lot of heart and time and effort into saying just what needs to be said so stop by her blog tomorrow and let her know you appreciate her authenticity.

I'm going to disappear now, but you have the best of Thanksgivings! Remember to take a moment and reflect on the many blessings we have to be grateful for. I am gratful for you, wonderful people. For your encouraging words, prayers, and friendship: Thank you

Until next time,
Näna

Disney 2008

2011-11-11T15:00:00.000-05:00

I'm still away, but here is a video I put together in September with the pictures from our last trip. I wish you could see the original because it looks soooo much better (quality wise).

But this is what we have so enjoy, and laugh and imagine you're there with us :)

Part 1

Part 2

Hugs,

Näna

The First Five Days

2011-11-08T20:09:00.001-05:00

Mom and I were talking the other day and realized that neither one of us have ever posted about a vacation. By the time you get home all the things you haven't been doing while you were on vacation hit you like a ton of bricks and posting gets pushed to the side until that "someday" when we'll have all the time in the world. But, we decided this trip was being posted about if it killed us. So little by little I'll be chronilogicallying it while still on the trip and maybe then a full vacation will be posted. None of these pictures have been edited or altered at all...very disturbing for me but I'm trying to come to grips with just having it done is better then perfection.

Day 1travelingWith a sixteen hour drive, we get a nice and early start pulling out of the driveway at 4:06 AM. Not bad for ten people, huh?

Winnie and I hanging out during a rest. No she wasn't a terrified as she looks here...she was just capivated by something one of the boys was doing in the back row and refused to look at the camera :)

We all love car trips and the hours went by quickly with the help of books, school and movies. Mom and Pa made great time and we actually arrived 1 1/2 hours early. Ka-chow! (can you tell by my slightly altered lingo whatt movie we just bought and watched last night?)

Ellie is completely in love with Rapunzel and her Rapunzel doll so Mom and I bought and snuck into her suitcase a Rapunzel costume for her to wear in Disney. She hasn't worn anything else except her bathing suit and pajamas since we arrived, if that give you an idea how she liked it :) Her smile whenever someone at Disney says "Hi, Princess Rapunzel!" is aboslutely priceless.

After we unpacked, Pa and Mom headed out to Super Target.

Meanwhile, us kids ordered pizza and watched Bedtime Stories.

Cupboards sufficiently stocked with snacks, we are finally ready to hit the parks.

Day 2

kk's birthday and disney's hollywood studios

I know I already posted about this day, but since it was posted from a "mobile device" (didn't I say that was how I would be posting? :P) I want to share a few more pictures.

Now, you know you're in an awesome place when you see street sings like this...

One of the reasons we wanted to come in November was to see the Christmas decorations. We're big on Christmas and even bigger on Christmas decor so see this when we walked into Hollywood Studios made us all jump up and down.

Ellie wanted to see a princess so bad we thought the Little Mermaid show would be a good place to start. Since there was a few minutes until the show began, we checked out the Disney Legacy display...the name of which escapes me at the minute... :P

Jo, this picture was taken just for you:

The Great Movie Ride is inside a replication of Grauman's Chinese Theater. I won't go into detail on what that exactly is (saving that for Disney 101) but it's one of our favorite rides and we love seeing the hand prints and autographs of celebrities on the sidewalk in front.

One of my personal favorite parts of the ride...bet you'll never be able to guess why...

Pa insisted on having his picture taken with Mom by the gold Christmas tree outside the Muppet's Theater...I try to tell them I couldn't see their lovely faces, but they didn't seem to care :)

Look closely and you'll see the Muppets in this fountain.

Some classic Muppet humor painted boldly on the outside of their theater.

And if the outside of the theater isn't exciting enough, on the inside is an actual 3D show complete with Waldorf and Stadler. It's like being in a Muppet show and is completely awesome for die-hard Muppeters like us :)

KK picked Mama Melrose's for lunch, which we had never eaten at before but turned out to be completely delicious and Italian.

Every year we each buy a Christmas ornament to add to the tree and this year we decided they should all come from Disney World. In It's a Wonderful Shop, an adorable Christmas store that we have always wanted to go in but it's never been open when we were there, we found the cutest little ones to add to our Christmas tree.

Waiting in line for the new Star Tours...it was completely redone (much improved, I might ad) and us Star Wars fans may have just been a little ecstatic.

The Lights, Motors, Action! stunt show was closed last time we were in Disney so this was the first time we had seen it. It was breathtaking. Performed on stage that looked like the French riviera...

...it featured our personal favorite race car, Lighting McQueen!

Toy Story Mania is an awesome ride, but since everyone thinks so the lines are usually 70+ minutes long. So we Fastpassed it in the morning and and came back to ride at five... definitely better then waiting in line.

Pa and Winnie...she's behind the yellow thing :)

Mom isn't big on intense rides and Ellie was too short to ride The Tower of Terror so they picked up some coffee and cocoa and had a date while they were waiting with us.

That night...FANTASMIC! My personal favorite show/firework our of all the shows in all the parks.

The gorgeous lights...we couldn't help stopping to admire them on our way out.

It was late and we didn't feel like doing anything for dinner so we picked up a dozen doughnuts at Krispy Kreme. Yeah, doughnuts are against our healthy nature but since we only eat them every two/three years we justified our little splurge :)

Have you ever put a candle in a doughnut? We have! And Eggs Benedict too :)

This picture...well, it's just screams KK, don't you think? :)

Day 3

epcot

We woke up late, had a leisurely breakfast, and live streamed our church service Sunday morning so it was afternoon before we got to Epcot.

With arriving late and the heavy crowds for the International Food and Wine Festival, it wasn't a very well planned day and we didn't get to do too much but still we had fun and enjoyed taking things a little slower.

Mom saw this little sombrero as we were passing through Mexio in The World Showcase and had to stop for a Winnie Picture.

Ellie enjoyed Under the Sea with Nemo and Friends so much we she asked to go again...and, of course, you can't say no to a princess :P

KK had picked a chocolate cheesecake for her birthday dessert, so around seven we headed home and broke out the cake (which, btw, happened to be delicious).

And the celebration continues....

Day 4

the magic kingdom

This was Ellie's face when she saw...

...this:

And this was her face...

...when she saw this:

The Magic Kingdom truly is a place of wonder for a little golden haired princess.

We started in Tomorrowland with Space Mountain...

...and the Tomorrow Land Speedway and Buzz Lightyear. The wait to see Rapunzel was too long so, saving that for another day, we did a few more attractions before checking with our favorite restaurant, The Crystal Palace, to see if they had a table for lunch.

While we waited for our table to be ready we watched the stage show in front of the castle starring princesses (and their princes), Peter Pan, Donald, Goofy and (of course) Mickey and Minnie.

Eating with Pooh and friends is always a fun experience. Winnie adored all the attention they paid her :)

Sammy absolutely thrilled to see one of his favorite characters in person (or donkey?).

Aedan's lovely is a stuffed Pooh Bear so, naturally, Pooh is "his guy". He even had him sign his hat.

Chocolate, coffee, amaretto mousse Mom and I fell in love with.

After two long days we decided to make it a short day and after The Enchanted Tiki Room...

...and Pirates of the Caribbean...

...and watching the parade...

...we headed back to the house.

Much to Winnie's delight.

Day 5

and they rested

Sammy wasn't feeling well last night, so we stayed home today and hung out in the pool, read a little and played some games. There is something awesome about swimming when it's only 27 degrees back in Frederick.

This mean I have officially posted about five, count them, FIVE days of vacation! Stayed tuned, guys...I am determined to post about this whole trip so more coming soon.

Until then,

Näna

The Magical Birthday

2011-11-06T22:04:00.001-05:00

Yesterday was KK's 20th birthday. Whoa! Is that hard to believe or what? To celebrate we headed, bag and baggage, to Disney's Hollywood Studios. Awesome, huh? How many birthdays do you get to spend in Disney World? :)

Pictures (which sadly are in reverse order):

5. Lunch at Mama Melrose's...at the end of the meal our waiter gave KK a genuine Disney hat and dessert.

4. Sam was thrilled to meet Buzz and Woody for the first time.

2. Winnie was soooo good considering how badly we messed up her schedule.

6. There we all are at the hat!

3. Ellie...err...Repunzel ready to go.

1. Mom rocking some 3D glasses :)

That's it for now...I have a ton more pictures and stories to tell but I'm starved and out of time. We hit Epcot today and Magic Kingdom tomorrow. In short having an awesomely magical time.

Love,
Nana

Goodbye and KK's baptism.

2011-11-04T04:00:00.000-04:00

After typing that title I reconsidered it right away. It's such a random odd mix it might scare even the people who know me as random. But that's is what has to be posted about today, so that is the title, so there :)

As you are reading this I am not here (although, now I am here). I am somewhere between Frederick, MD and Orlando, Florida. Remember how I said I was going to be in Disney World in a few days? Well this is the day and I am now here (or would it be there?) !!!

But! Before I run off to that place where dreams coming true and all that, there is something I have to post about. Because when I get home on the 20th, all I'll want to post about is Disney (FYI: Disney World 101 coming soon) and then it will never get posted. But it's a pretty big thing that should be posted about so let's go for it.

Snow in October...yes please! We were all thrilled by that -- as I told you about in my Saturday post. Then KK pointed out that the next day she was getting baptized....which for most of you probably doesn't make any sense.

Remember when I was baptized back in April I mentioned how we have a very small church building and no baptistery? Remember how a bunch of the guys from church put together a portable baptismal? Remember it worked perfect for my baptism...especially since it turned out to be 80 degree? We set it up outside, filled it with warm water and it was great. But, since we had fellowship after service, we were meeting at West Frederick Middle. Which is great. Except the fact that the baptism had to take place outside (major problems if it should happen to leak)...and it had snowed the day before....which means 30 degree weather. We're talking major coldness :) This didn't dampen our spirits at all, though. Mom said it served KK right for waiting ten years to get baptized.

So after service we gather outside (we were all freezing, btw)...

Front row L-R: Than, Emma, our friend/adopted sister Grace holding Carmella, yours truly, the back of Pa's head :) Uncle Terry (Grace's dad) is right behind mine and Pa's heads, Aunt Katrina (his wife and Grace's mom) is right behind him, and our friends, the Rutters, are to the left of Uncle Terry.

A really good, closer picture of the Rutters (thanks Kelly for taking the pictures during the baptism!)...

"I baptize thee my sister in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit."

Afterward, we all gathered back in the cafeteria for fellowship and a soup and salad lunch. Going down the table, right side: Mr. Rutter, Uncle Terry, Uncle Griffith, Aedan, Uncle Frank, left side: Than, Mrs. Rutter, Mrs. Jackson, Aunt Helen, and myself.

Emma and Grace with the little girls.

(don't tell them I said this, but it's adorable the way they look after them)

I don't know if I have ever introduced Pa's parents on this blog, but we were delighted they were able to join us. The senior Mr. and Mrs. Wachter:

For all our friends and family who couldn't be there we brought the Flip along with us...thanks to Josh for taking this video (he had a better position for filming :P).

It was a great moment. Baptisms are beautiful.
Moving on, I am very lame blogger and have been sooo busy since we got home from vacation I don't have anything set up for while I'm away. So I'll be posting some pictures from mobile devices :P But for now, here's a movie from our last trip for your viewing pleasure.

Until next time, have a great November! Start looking for me when Christmas music starts playing and you order your Thanksgiving turkey :)
xoxo,Näna

A note from Winnie:

2011-11-01T20:55:00.001-04:00

So me and Winnie were sitting here and she decided to type a special message just for you guys. This is what she said:

hnxdzvjkmytukll.khf

Loosely translated, "Thank you for loving me and calling me beautiful. It makes my f.i.n.e. (freaked out, insecure, neurotic and emotional) sister happy which, as we all know, turns around and makes the world a better place."

(isn't she brilliant?)

Because she loves you (and we really do appreciate you're Winnie support) she decided to award you by posting her four month photos for you. Mom and I took these Friday. Mom had gotten a new camera the day before and we wanted to get something before she got any bigger. Just remember, we are not photographers and have never claimed to be so forgive the quality...we just can't bring ourselves to have them done in a studio. Seeing how beautiful Miss Susan's photos have been when she does them for us has ruined our appreciation for pictures from the mall. So we reasoned that even our attempts had to be better :P

Love,
Näna and Winnie

I love living in the north...

2011-10-29T18:12:00.000-04:00

...because it's October...

...and I was waken up this morning by little voices shouting...

..."It's Snowing!"...

4.5 inches it snowed. Yep, the north is a great place.

Defining Life

2011-10-28T19:55:00.002-04:00

excitement

is find out your dear friend you haven't seen in almost a year is coming up to the D.C. area for her birthday

happiness

is seeing said friend get to meet Winnie for the very first time!

(currently hating blogger for turning this picture)

delightful

was the dinner we had a Bonefish Grill...but really what made it really delightful was visiting and catching up with sweet friends

memories

are what we made staying up till midnight (sad when that sounds early :P) watching The Muppet Show (never, ever too old for Muppets!)

hysterical

was KK sticking a birthday candle in Jo's egg benedit the next morning so we could sing
happy birthday to her :)
( really hating blogger auto flip )

amusing

was babysitting 13 kids while Mom had some ladies over for a girl's night

adorable

were their giggles as they watch the new Pooh Bear movie for the first time

ecstatic

is what I am...because next time this week...I'll Be In Disney World!

Linking up to Friday Favorites...because good friends, fun times, almost being in Disney and adorable little friends are some of my favorite things.

The ABC's of Christian Growth

2011-10-28T11:52:00.000-04:00

The ABC's of Christian Growth is an devotional/discipleship tool to spiritual growth and improvement by Pastor Robert Sergeant. It teaches a mixture of the basic doctrines of the faith, how to live a separated life, and how to grow after salvation. Discipleship is such an important step for the new believer, so having a basic guide that covers a variety of topics has really been a blessing to us over the years.

Pros:

The ABC's in the title comes from the title of each lesson starting with a different letter. For example, A is for Assurance, B is for Bible, C for Church and so on. It helps you to recall the things from the former lessons, as well as making it easier to reference a topic as you need it.

Topic by topic format. Each lesson is another topic and really delves deep into whatever that section is about. It helps make it just a little less overwhelming.

Everything is taken directly from the Bible and all the answers you have to look up in the Bible. I don't know about you, but I don't care to hear Bible doctrines according to one person...I want to hear what God has to say about it.

All the lessons are very down to earth and easy to understand. Great for new Christians who haven't learned all the "religious lingo" or people like me who just like things put simply.

Simple applications are given to help you apply the things you learn and make it real, as well as reading assignments to help expand your Biblical knowledge.

Cons:

(there are few and none have to do with the doctrines taught, just personal preference and how I think it could have improved)

I do think a few of the lessons dealt with things that weren't really fundamentally important for new believers. Don't get me wrong -- they are real truths. This is a bit of a personal pet-peeve, though so maybe I was just biased. I just don't think that you should start out telling a new Christian how s/he should dress, what they should listen to, what Bible version they should read. Instead, why not just teach them to love God with everything inside so they'll start searching His word and talking to Him and let Him relay to them Himself how to live, dress, talk.

In the X lesson (X-Rated for Christians) each thing was referred to as "Why Baptist don't _____" Again, personal pet-peeve here but, while I am Baptist, I do not believe that only Baptist are Christians and they are the only ones with the truth. That's just an attitude I don't really appreciate and I think it could be off-putting to a young Christian. I don't know if this is the view the author holds so I'm not trying to criticize him, but that's how it came across.

Overall, it's very well written and organized. You can tell the author is passionate about what he believes and about sharing it with you. A priceless tool for discipleship or for reviewing what you believe and why.

p.s. this post written for a school assignment...another post coming later today!

Happy Seventeen!

2011-10-25T16:24:00.000-04:00

Just wanted to take a moment and say....

Happy 17th Birthday, Jo!

Jo (R) with her sister, Titty. Yep, I did steal this from her blog :)

It's impossible to believe that you are seventeen! Remember when we first met and you were fifteen and I was, what, fourteen? That seems like forever ago and just yesterday at the same time!

You have been an amazing friend. I'm always awed at how much alike we are...Andrew Lloyd Webber, Star Wars, old movies, Jesus Christ, large families, living life spastic...the list goes on :)

I'm so excited about getting to actually spend your birthday with you! We are going to have one crazy rockin' time :) See you...tonight!!!

Love ya lots, girl!
Nan

p.s. stop by Jo's blog, Scraps, and wish her many happy return of the day.

Around the World in 80 Days

2011-10-22T19:24:00.000-04:00

[source]

Random fact about me: I am not big on classic literature. Yeah, occasionally you'll find a gem (such as The Count of Monte Cristo) but typically they are just dry and hard to understand. Plus, most of the so called classics have really pointless story lines. Mark Twain once said about classics, "A classic is something everyone wants to read and nobody wants to read." I digress.

Nevertheless, on vacation a few years ago I ran out of reading material (majorly bad) and in desperation picked up Around the World in 80 Days. It did end up enjoying it but we left before I finished reading it so that was the end of my experience with Phileas Fogg. But this isn't a book review. This is a movie review. So let's keep going.

In fact, this is a review of the 2004 not-so-stuff-and-classic-like version of Jules Verne's classic tale. Our dear friends, the Jacksons, lent us their copy claiming it a must see. It sat around for a while until one movie night Mom said enough was enough and we had to see this so we could return it. We did (with a little grumbling from some of the boys about it being boring) and it didn't take more then five minutes for us to realize that the Jacksons were right. :P

[source]

For those of you not familiar with the story line, Around the World in 80 Days is the story of Passepartout /Lau Xing when he takes a job as a "French" valet (Phileas: "You don't sound French." Passepartout/Lau Xing: Father French. Never spoke a word. Mother Chinese. Never stop talking.") to the eccentric English inventor, Phileas Fogg. Phileas makes a bet with members of his "gentlemen's club" that he can circumnavigate the globe in only eighty days. This takes them on a journey through countries such as France, Turkey, India, China, USA, and more.

[source]

Here's a catch though: Passepartout has stolen a valuable jade Buddha from the Bank of England...one that was stolen from his village in China. So a corrupt British lord is chasing him around as well as "the evil Chinese war lord". It makes for some very sweet action.

[source]

Jackie Chan was supposed to be the star, I know. But I think Steve Coogen (Phileas Fogg) did such and amazing job. Those of you who have seen Night at the Museum will recognized him as Octavian. We busted up so badly when we realized who he was and when Owen Wilson (again, NATM fans will know him as Jedediah) and his real life brother, Luke Wilson, showed up as the Wright brother and him and Steve Coogen do the whole "do I know you?" sorta thing playing off of NATM...oh. my. word. We were rolling.

[source]

The script -- it so well written. We quote it all the time...even the alternate beginning! But that's just typical Wachter :) Some of the best lines...

Phileas: This is what happens when you leave home. You meet...people.

Phileas: I feel faint.
Monique: Phileas, women are not that weak.
Phileas: No, but I am.

Phileas Fogg: [the Black Scorpion leader threatens him with his bracelet] Your threats do not frighten me, nor does your silly bracelet.
[a blade pops out of the bracelet]
Phileas Fogg: All right, it's not silly.

Passepartout: [in the warehouse, seeing the Statue of Liberty in pieces] That's a big man.
Monique: It is a lady. A French lady.
Phileas: [turning to see General Fang and her henchmen] She looks like an evil Chinese warlord to me.

Phileas: [indignantly] And I will never dress as a women again. Ever!

Lord Kelvin: Well done, Salisbury! I shall name a beef-based entrée after you in your honor.

Phileas: Nevertheless, we are going to fall, and it is going to hurt.

Lord Kelvin: What's the point in hiring a corrupt inspector when he can't even abuse the Law properly?

Monique La Roche: I'm sorry, Phileas.
Phileas Fogg: Don't be, my cheri. I saw the world. I learnt of new cultures. I flew across an ocean. I wore women's clothing. Made a friend. [he takes Monique's hand]
Phileas Fogg: Fell in love. Who cares if I lost a wager?
Queen Victoria: I do! I've got 20 quid riding on you.

Phileas: Well, rules are meant to be broken...or...stabbed with a pointy shoe.

I loved this movie. Really, I don't even know what else to say :P See it. You will thank me.

My rating:
******* out of ***** stars
(I can't even rate the humor because it's so through the roof wonderful)

Have you see Around the World in 80 Days? How would you rate it? I love hearing your thoughts. Comment and let me know.

Hugs,
Näna

p.s. sorry for the bad quality pictures...they were all I could find :)

I need a latte (and other things)

2011-10-20T20:00:00.000-04:00

Hello random people, darling friends I couldn't live without, and all other sorts of intelligent (and not so intelligent) life forms!

***CAUTION! THIS POST WRITTEN BY A GIRL IN DESPERATE NEED OF A LATTE***

So many things going on in this crazy day to day existence I call my life. Now, don't let that latte line mislead you -- I'm not capitally depressed or stressed. Just in a bit of a silly mood. (although, I really did only have one cup of coffee today and that would do it to anyone)

We have finally finished The Great Poster Project!!! Let's get some fanfare! In other words, since we started remodeling our basement, we had this vision of a travel/destination themed atmosphere. It's finally coming together now that the paint is up, we're working on the wanes coat, and pictures and being hung. It's all open so the theme is carried out through each room while they all have their own sorta feel. For example, the pool/game room is in the destination theme while the dart board and pool clock bring in the more pool hall feel. The movie room is (again) vintage destination but the old fashioned, movie theater popcorn machine give it more of a theater look. So the project we were working on was hanging posters of movies that have to do with travel on the walls and coming up with suitable frames. It's been a pain, but now they are all ordered and on their way. Yay! Wanna know what movies we came up with? Titanic (an original -- a gift to Pa and Mom from one of my adopted uncles who used to work at a theater), Casablanca (not an original but very vintage and very cool), The Voyage of the Dawn Treader (gift from a sweet adopted sister), and North by Northwest. All very travel-y and all fall in our favorites category. And, since we are major Christmas movies junkies, we ordered posters of our favorite Christmas movies to change during the holiday season. It's a Wonderful Life, It Happened on 5th Avenue, White Christmas, and Polar Express. In a few words, it's really, really, awesome. I'll post some pictures when the frames come.

blogger auto photo flip strikes again...ugh

I am sooo sore. Deciding I needed to get back in shape, I've started doing push ups and sit ups every morning and evening. Working my way up to 100 of each a day. Ouch. Already starting to pay for it :)

The weather is just gorgeous around here. I'm in love with fall. Then again, I fall in love with every season every year. But Maryland has the best fall. Period. Beautiful colors and weather. Win, win, right?

"Down once more to the dungeon of my dark despair, down once more to the prison of my mind!" That's what we sing whenever we go down to the laundry room. Because the laundry room really is a dungeon of despair (don't you agree??? :P). Plus we're cool and dramatic like that. And we love Phantom.

Speaking of Phantom, it's great to listen to when trying to focus on school. I need music to focus. Yesterday morning I was trying to figure out why I couldn't get in "my zone" when it stuck me -- no iPod! Anyone else need music to focus? My favorite school music (which plays non stop during the school year): Re: Creation by Stephen Curtis Chapmen, Phantom by ALW and The Disney Songbook by Jim Brickman, Joseph by ALW, and the Prince Caspian soundtrack by H. G. Williams.

yep, that is Baby Einstein right next to Phantom :)
I have our entire library on my iPod ...'cause 160GB let's you do awesome stuff like that.

...or that's what I would be playing non stop. Except for the fact that the kids have started practicing the Christmas cantata for church which got us all in a Christmas mood which (obviously) means Christmas music 24/7. Don't blame me..I can't help it! I love Christmas music :)

You want to know something that's really cool? Having your whole house (at least the common rooms) decorated in fall colors. Because when fall rolls around no decorating required! Gotta love red, gold, and terracotta (a fancy way of saying orange) walls! Just add garland for instant fall decor. Martha Stewart would be proud.

The kitchen window...don't you love those curtains? We got them for dirt cheap.

It's funny because even though none of us can play an instrument well and only Kaitlin, Mom, Emma and Aedan have a voice "worth writing home about" (to quote Data -- Trekies will know what I mean) (despite the fact that Mom's mom has such a beautiful voice she was offered a job singing alongside Connie Francis), we are a very musical family. We all *love* music and (probably) couldn't live without it. Even Winnie starts kicking her feet and looking around trying to find out where the noise is coming from. Oh, and btw, even though we can't sing doesn't keep us from singing. Just saying.

This picture is for no reason...just because it show's my life of late. Holding Winnie and working on school. Btw, Winnie rocks math :)

Oh, and guess what happens this coming Tuesday??? I get to see my very sweet friend Jo! On her 17th birthday to! It's gonna be a great day and I can't wait :D Isn't it great having something to look forward to? Like would be dull if there was never anything to anticipate.

That's it for now.

Until next time,
Näna

Movie Giveaway Winners!

2011-10-16T00:00:00.000-04:00

You have all been so patient and I am happy to announce that your patience has finally paid off and the winner's for the movie giveaway have been drawn! I know you would much rather here then winners then listen to me ramble on, so without further ado...the winners!

Winner of the As Time Goes By bottle cap necklace is...

#22, Polka Dot!

Winner of the Frank Sinatra decal...

#5, Trini!

Winner of the Grace Kelly postage stamd pendent...

#40, Jennoelle!

Winner of the Monroe decal...

#20, Stephanie!

Winner of the movie themed PDF party pack...

#33, Cassie!

Winner of the movie themed printable party set...

#8, Jedi~Chick!

Winner of the Nick and Nora card...

#30, Sheean!

Winner of the Singing in the Rain magnet...

#23, Miss Sophia!

Winner of Singing in the Rain stationary...

#43, Hannah!

Winner of the Pride and Prejudice quote necklace...

#26, Jo March!

Congrats, ladies! Go ahead and send me your addresses (briannatwachter@gmail.com) and we'll get those in the mail to you. A big thank you to everyone who joined in. I had a blast and I hope you did too.

Love you guys,

Näna

The Inn of the Sixth Happiness

2011-10-14T19:33:00.000-04:00

The Inn of the Sixth Happiness is the inspiring story of Gladys Aylward, a British missionary to China in the 1930's until her death. Gladys had always felt it was her call from God to minister to the Chinese people but, with only a common education and (supposedly) being too old to learn Chinese, the missionary boards thought her unqualified. This didn't deter Gladys, though. She saved everything she earned and in 1930 with only five pounds to her name she crossed through war torn Russia to the little, mountain, mule train village of Yang Cheng, China. There she became assistant to a veteran missionary who had been serving in China most of her life. Together they opened The Inn of the Sixth Happiness --a place where travelers could come for a warm bed, food but most importantly: stories of the Bible.

When China passes a law that all women's feet are to be unbound, the village Mandarin, (desperate to find someone to do the job) appoints Gladys to travel through the other village towns in his province. She agrees only on the condition that she can share the gospel with the people as she does it. He agrees and through this opportunity she wins the hearts of the mountain villagers that wouldn't have been reached otherwise.

A while back we read aloud Never Say Die: The Story of Gladys Aylward and fascinated with this women's life looked up the movie. Ingrid Bergman (a personal favorite of mine) stars along side Curt Jurgens and Robert Donat. We had read that Glady's Aylward herself did not like the way she was depicted in this movie so we went into it with more then a little apprehension. While I wouldn't say it was the best movie I've ever seen (or the best job they could have done) it was better then we were expecting. Let me explain.

First off, it's an adaptation of the book "The Small Women" by Alan Burgess. Now those of you who know Ingrid Bergman, know that she is not short. Rather tall with her really-cute-but-doesn't-sound-like-a-cockney Swedish accent she is physically almost the exact opposite of the real short and very British sounding Gladys Aylward. Still I am partial to Bergman so this was easy for me to get over (not so much for Mom, though, who went on about it the whole movie :]).

The Captain Lin Nan dude. Yeah, he's interesting. Not my ideal leading man, let's say that :) Plus what's with the major cocktail ring? Seriously? And how lame of him to just run off and get lost at war. They made this big deal out of them and that was it. Whatever. Seriously though, this was another part Alyward didn't like. Not because he was a romantic interest as much as he was portrayed half European/half Chinese when (apparently) he was full Chinese. I really don't get why the writer's would change that (except possibly to show the racism against the Chinese by the western countries) but there you have it.

But! Those things aside, I do think it was a fairly good film and I would recommend it. Let's talk about why: All odds were against almost everything she did. Becoming a missionary in the first place was "impossible", then continuing the mission after Jeenie Lawson died again -- impossible. The time the mob started in the prison and all the men were running around trying to kill each other because there was nothing for them to do all day but sit there in the prison and she marches right in the prison, breaks up the riot and starts a prison reformation...guess what that was? Impossible. And taking in a baby girl a lady was trying to sell being able to feed and provide for her? Not possible. Leading 100 orphans across the mountain to safety during the Japanese invasion? You guessed it. But those things really happened. Those things weren't impossible. You see, impossible isn't so impossible for God. HE gives the strength to the weak. HE leads His children through the impossible. HE gently guides His children through the impossible and onto victory.

I give it *** out of ***** stars.

Questions! Have any of you see this? Your opinions? What did you think of Ingrid Bergman as Gladys? Would you recommend it? Comment and let me know.

Love,
Näna

p.s. This review written for a challenge our church library is hosting but I thought I'd share it here too.

Simply Seventeen

2011-10-13T18:41:00.001-04:00

Joining in a blog party hosted by my dear friend, Jo, in honor of her 17th birthday. Btw, Jo, it's unbelievable that you are going to be 17! Wow, time goes by fast.

1. when you think of "old movies", what immediately comes to mind?

Casablanca (*grins* You guys didn't see that coming, did ya?), Audry Hepburn, Cary Grant, It's a Wonderful Life...among other things.

2. one of your favorite film or literary heroes (or heroines) and why?

Sally Rogers from The Dick Van Dyke Show and Nora Charles from The Thin Man. Sally because she's cute and funny and goes window shopping at the YMCA and Nora because she's elegant, looks adorable when she scrunches her nose and is one heck of a detective. Plus I love seeing her and Nick interact. As for picking two instead of one, I already narrowed it down from thousands of characters so give me some credit :)

3. if you could live in a movie, which one would it be and why?

Well, I would say Star Wars or Narnia, but since everyone will say those I'll say Oceans 11 (ha!) or Jeeves and Wooster (the rockin' roarin' 20's!) or anything with the Muppets...how about The Muppets Take Manhattan (Muppets for the kill!).

4. music has changed a lot since 1900 - which "modern" type of music is your favorite?

1980's music (think Billy Joel...awesome stuff like that), 50's (Louis Armstrong, Frank Sinatra...gorgeous), musicals (Andrew Lloyd Webber, to be specific) and soundtracks (John Williams, James Horner, the like).

5. any songs you'd like to share with us? (lyrics, video, etc.)

Oh, sure. I always have a song or movie in my head. This song because the intro is stunning...

The Greatest Discovery

Elton John

And this video because I know you'll get a kick out of it, Jo.

6. if your life had soundtrack (i wish mine did :d), what would yours sound like?

I think it would sound a lot like Scenes From an Italian Restaurant with a little POTO Overture for those really emotional moments and Try To Remember for the nostalgic days. I'm sure there would be several other songs but I can't think of them now.

7 when do you start counting down till your birthday?

Uh....the day before? :P I don't really ever think about it until the first or second week August.

8 what makes your birthday special?

It's the week before school starts and right before Labor Day so it's kinda like the grand finale to summer :)

9 do you ever wish you were born in a different month?

Occasionally I wish I was born in fall (because fall is just plain wonderful), but only sometimes. Because summer is a great time too :)

10 pick and post five words to describe your personality - you can add a description under each if you like.

According to Emma and KK: techy, classy, quick, independent, perfectionist. I don't know if I agree with all of them but whatever. Hey, you know what could earn you some brownie points? Comment and tell me what five words you think describe my personality.

Well, there you go, Jo. Happy birthday! Love ya, girl! See you on the 25th!

See my black armband?

2011-10-10T21:31:00.000-04:00

I'm in mourning.

A girl can put up with a lot. I consider myself pretty tough. Very rarely (okay, so maybe just rarely) do I actually break down and cry. But this was the limit.

My dear, sweet friend...my better half...is dead. *sobs*

When I saw him laying there...pieces everywhere...I can't tell you what that did to me :P Finn McMissle...my beautiful Inspiron...died today of hard drive failure. No warning, no nothing...just The Black Screen of Doom.

In a few weeks Dell IT is coming to replace it. But until then I am left a poor, pathetic widow using a Hp that thinks obeying commands is optional.

So if you see less of me, you know why. I'm currently drowning my sorrows in (one of my long time favorites) To Catch a Thief. Hitchcocks awesome like that :)

With love and more then a few tears...

Näna

p.s. If you haven't entered the giveaway yet, click here....the winner's will be announce whenever I have a computer that runs in some sort of way that resembles fast :)

Switching Over

2011-10-07T18:53:00.001-04:00

We are big coffee lovers around here. But with the cool weather fall is bringing it's time to file away the frappuccino recipe. We stopped by a Starbucks on our way home from and I was so excited to see that the pumpkin lattes are now out. And then I saw on Abigail's blog a recipe for pumpkin spice lattes and (I've gotta say) my heart did a little flip. That's was it! That was the replacement for our daily frappuccions! I whipped some up Tuesday afternoon. It was love at first sip.

(Abigail's recipe she was kind enough to let me post...edited to the way I make it)

PUMPKIN SPICE LATTE SYRUP
1/3 C. Pumpkin Puree
1 C. Sugar
1 1/4 C. Water
1 t. Vanilla
1 t. Cinnamon
1/2 t. Nutmeg
1/4 t. Cloves
1/4 t. Ginger

Start by placing all ingredients in a sauce pan on medium high heat. Stir ingredients and bring to a boil. Stirring every few minutes, let the mixture boil at a lower temperature for 10-15 minutes, until it becomes slightly thick and sticky.Remove pan from heat, and let cool. To store, refrigerate in an airtight container.

PUMPKIN SPICE LATTE

Fill your mug half way full with milk. Add one to two tablespoons of Pumpkin Spice Latte Syrup. Heat in microwave until warm (or steam if you have an espresso machine). Meanwhile, brew your espresso shots and mix together. Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon & nutmeg.

Enjoy!

And when fall comes I'm making peppermint and gingerbread lattes. (Anyone have a recipe?) But for now...I'm lovin' my fall coffee. Does matching my coffee to the seasons make me unbearably weird? :)

Speaking of fall, guess what happened today? Our orchard that we planted on the first anniversary of September 11th (that's nine years ago, you guys) produced it's first ever apple! Isn't it precious?

All the beautiful fall colors that have sprung up in the past few weeks has made my old design look blah. I never really loved that design anyway. So I need to know: what do you think of the new one?

What are you loving about fall?

Linking up to Friday Favorites....because it's Friday and fall, pumpkin spice lattes, apples, and new designs are some of my favorite things.

p.s. The giveaway closes next Monday so hurry up and click here to enter!

Hello there, thank you, and (finally) last radiance post

2011-10-06T01:01:00.000-04:00

Hello there! Remember me? Yes, this is Näna and I am finally back. We had an awesome trip that will be described in more detail then anyone wants to know but, until I get all the pictures edited and uploaded I have a few things I want to mention.

Thank you, thank you, thank you to all my wonderful guest posters! You guys rock. It was so much fun to go back and read all your posts....especially the ones on the movies I haven't seen. You're life savers. Remind me I owe ya one :)

Remember that thing I started back in *gulp* May called Radiance? Since announcing the final week in July I have never posted the winner of the last giveaway. Shame on me. Anyway, I finally decided enough was enough and here it is. The winner of the gorgeous bracelet from Stephanie is...#27 picked by Random.org...Miss Elizabeth Rose! Congrats, Lizzy! I think I have your address but go ahead and email it anyway and we will get that in the mail to you.

More posts coming soon....coming back home = having to face all the stuff you pushed off till after vacation. But my to-do list is shrinking and as soon as it's to a fairly tolerable size I will be back full swing. So be prepared.

Love you guys,
Näna

movie review ~ rio

2011-10-01T08:50:00.001-04:00

"Oh, hi. Hi. My name is Blu. You know, like the cheese with mold on it, that smells really bad."

This is Blu (Jesse Eisenberg): the not-so-smooth blue macaw, who also happens to be the *last male of his kind*.

He's had a rough life so far. This is kind of what it's looked like...

But he's finally settled into a routine with Linda, his rescuer, (Leslie Mann) now. What more can you ask for then hot cocoa, cookies, and a cage with a bell?

But then his life is rudely disrupted by a Tulio (Rodrigo Santoro), a bird expert who thinks he can talk with birds.

(Linda: "Wow, you're actually communicating!"

Tulio: "Yes! Yes! I introduced myself and shook my tail feathers counter clockwise, thus referring to his dominance.")

Tulio proclaims that Blu is the almost the last blue macaw;

*Almost*

He tells Linda and Blu that there's 1 female left too. But she's in Rio.

Ouch.

So Linda and Blu find themselves in Rio de Janeiro, feeling a little out of place with carnival, samba, and dentists that dress up in sparkly outfits...

Awkward? Yeah. But that was just the beginning...now it's time to meet the girl, Jewel (Anne Hathaway).

And just when Blu and Linda think everything's under control, the plan gets messed up. And suddenly, the fact that Blu *cannot fly* becomes more then a slight problem...

(Blu: "I would love to go five minutes without almost getting killed! Is that too much to ask?"

Jewel: "For a bird who can't fly? Oh, yeah!")

I don't want to give it all away (I want you to go watch it yourself), so I won't tell you anymore about the plot...

(except that Pedro and Nico are the cutest and most hilarious birds I've ever seen in my life)

All in all, this movie was super cute. It's one of those movies that's kind of predictable at times, but very sweet in the end...

If I had to give you something bad about it, it'd probably be the bit of bathroom humor, and the fact that a bunch of the carnival girl dancers (including Linda) and beach-goers wear bikini-type-things...

But other then that, guys (and girls), I would *definitely* recommend this movie for everyone (yes. everyone.) It has a ton of good quotes (the kind that get stuck in your head all day), lots of humor, every color imaginable, and fun music with lots of samba. Plus characters are just adorable...(how can you not like animated, talking birds!?!)

Yup. Definitely a winner. 10 out of 5 stars. :P

(Pedro: "Yeah, it's time to take it to da next level!"

Blu: "What's wrong with this level?"

Pedro: "Come on! This ain't the level; the next level's the level!")

~Vivi~

---

Hi, I'm Vivi. I'm a 14-year-old, sister-to-4, homeschooler, Catholic, and swimmer (yay for all you swimmers!). I'm from over at "with a smile". So, if you would, please make my day and come say hi. :) I'd be thrilled to get to know you.

(Yes, Gab's my older sister. :D)

-V

p.s. a note from Näna: My mom's blog, Art's Chili Pepper, has been nominated for top family blogger by Circle of Mom's. Every day between now and October 3rd stop by here and vote for her! Thanks! -N

p. s. from Vivi- in case you haven't noticed, that means there are only 2 DAYS left to vote. So do the Wachter family a favor and please take ten seconds to vote for Nana's Mom. :)

movie review: the grace card

2011-09-28T15:37:00.001-04:00

Meet 'Mac' McDonald--a police officer in Memphis (played by Michael Joiner).

He's not a very nice guy (^can you tell?).

He blames himself for the death of his eldest son 17 years ago and takes out his anger, grief, and bitterness on those around him, including his other son Blake and his wife Sara, who seeks counseling for their family.

He has no hope

...until he meets Sam Wright--whom he loathes...for being an African-American, a preacher, and the policeman chosen for the promotion.

Sam (played by Michael Higgenbottom--what kind of awesome name is that?) feels as if he's failed at the vocation God called him to. He's not getting through to his congregation when he preaches. He struggles to keep his little church up and running. And he is hurt by Mac's blatant racism when their boss partners them.

But Sam's wife Debra reminds him that God put him into Mac's life for a reason--which becomes obvious once Mac gets a little too free with his bullets.

I had high hopes for this movie. Sherwood Baptist Church (creators of Flywheel, Facing the Giants, Fireproof, and the oh-so-highly-anticipated Courageous [see last post]) had set my standards pretty high, as they've never disappointed me yet (and from what Hannah says, they won't anytime soon).

And as the first small-budget film by Memphis' Calvary Church, it's not bad.

It's a sweet movie (and yes, it made me cry).

But it lacks depth.

The characters in the movie were undeveloped; the plot was cliche; the ending was inevitable.

My sister Viv and I called out major plot points 10 minutes before they actually happened on-screen. We knew how the movie would end soon after it started.

The photography wasn't great either, and the lighting--ehm, hard to ignore.

If you're a detail person like me, you can't look past the fact that some of the details
just.
don't.
line.
up.
The movie isn't necessarily inconsistent in itself; it's inconsistent with life--both in the plot twists and in the trivial details.

Although I was *thrilled* when I saw that a certain police officer in the movie was played by Stephen Dervan,

(perhaps better known as...duh-da-da-da...THE HOT SAUCE GUY from Fireproof)

...they hardly gave him any screen time and deleted his main scene (which--no surprise--included mirrors and a dialogue with...himself).

All in all, The Grace Card was disappointing in the plot and technical details, but it reminds us that grace, not justice, is necessary for forgiveness and healing. And really, can we be reminded of that often enough?
It is, as I said before, a sweet movie, and I look forward to seeing the next film from Calvary Church--they have potential to imitate Sherwood Baptist Church in creating unforgettable tear-jerkers that *every single Christian homeschooler* has heard of (correct me if I'm wrong).

Until then....

gab--over and out.

{about me}
Hello to all Nana's fantastical followers; I'm Gab Coulter from a time 2 sing--oldest of five, avid swimmer, forever a homeschooler, sophomore in high school, and hopeless book addict.
Many thanks to Nana for asking me to post! My little sister's posting later this week--so watch for her! ;)
Come visit me at my blog, and if you've seen The Grace Card, comment on this post and tell me your thoughts!

p.s. a note from Näna: My mom's blog, Art's Chili Pepper, has been nominated for top family blogger by Circle of Mom's. Every day between now and October 3rd stop by here and vote for her! Thanks! -N

Honor Begins At Home

2011-09-26T12:10:00.005-04:00

Flywheel. Facing The Giants. Fireproof.

I'm gonna take a guess and say that none of those are foreign to you. You've probably all seen them... and if you did AND liked them, then you were probably anticipating the release of their newest movie... Courageous.

I know I was!

Anyhow, this movie comes out the 30th of this month... but I had the privilege of going to see an early premiere of it.

And it was definitely NOT a disappointment!!

It might even be my favorite of all their movies so far. (I'm pretty sure I've said that with every new movie they put out... but yeah)

The acting was great! There were a few characters that really annoyed me, but can't win em all, right? lol You know how they (whoever 'they' are) say that when you're watching a movie you should be crying one minute and laughing the next? Check.
I never actually cried during the movie, but it was definitely a tear jerker. Waaay more so than any of their other movies. But I won't spoil it and tell you why. :P
This movie was also really funny. Seriously, I think I laughed the hardest I have this year while watching this movie. Alex Kendrick just has a sense of humor. What more can I say? And there was action... and drama. It was kind of a multi-genre movie, if that makes sense!
Really though, it had an amazing message: kid's need their dads!! It went through the lives of 5 different men, each struggling in his own way. Whether from their own Dad not being there for them, or them not being there like they should for their children. Each of the 5 men end up making a pledge type thing, based on Scripture, of what it means to be the kind of father God intended for them to be.

You know the Love Dare in Fireproof? Almost sorta kinda like that... but about being a dad. :)

Alex Kendrick at the end of the movie gives a really good speech...

Talking about being men of courage, and rising up to the challenge. And taking responsibility for the roles God blessed them with; husband, father, provider, leader, protector.

"So where are you men of courage?"

The only quote from the movie that actually stuck with me!! lol

So I guess that's all I have to say for now.... it comes out on Friday.

So. Go. See. It!!!

You won't regret it. :) Then let me know what YOU thought of it!

And I just had to add this for fun... ^^ another example of courage. ;)

So many thanks to the lovely Nana for asking me to guest post on her blog!!! I had fun writing this, and hope you all did reading it.

In case you're wondering who I am.... I'm Hannah from over at A World Of My Own.

Just a kid with big dreams and a lame sense of humor. I'm the 3rd oldest of 8 children, oldest girl. 17 years young, and lovin' this crazy life I've been blessed with. I live in Florida, where the sun is always shining, and have since I was born. It's great! I love the Lord with all my heart and can't wait to see what plans He has for my life!

If you get a minute, stop on over and check out my little corner of the blog world. It's not much really... just me rambling on about life. But maybe you'll find something there worth reading. =)

God bless you all!!

movie review: the young victoria

2011-09-24T20:04:00.000-04:00

A majority of the movies that come into theaters nowadays are trashy and ungodly in many respects. I am often surprised at what is even considered appropriate for young children. Standards are going down by the day. I will be forever grateful to my parents for not only limiting my television intake but also for being extremely selective of what our family views. When you combine that with the fact that I love history, what do you get? Period dramas: my favorite films. And it's not just me; even my father loves to watch a good classic like Emma or Pride and Prejudice with my siblings, mother, and I. True, they are long, but I find that so much more time is put into these films. The costumes, the scenery, the dialogue -- everything is so rich, you can't even take it all in the first time (all the more reason to watch it again :)). Oh, and the soundtracks, too -- we can't forget them ("music, ah, such music!") To put it simply, period dramas are so much more memorable.

After all that set up, you shouldn't be too surprised to hear that you're in for a review of one of my favorite period dramas, the young victoria, right? :)

The Young Victoria

*Directed by Jean-Marc Vallee and starring Emily Blunt and Rupert Friend

As the only legitimate heir of England's King William, young Princess Victoria becomes caught up in the political machinations of her own family. Victoria's mother wants her to sign a regency order, while her Belgian uncle schemes to arrange a marriage between the future monarch and Prince Albert, the man who will become the love of her life.

My Thoughts: From the moment this movie began, I knew I would love it. Everything about TYV is vibrant and colorful and just plain beautiful. I loved the scenery, too. A few of Victoria's hairstyles were strange, but I think Emily Blunt wore them well. Albert was my ideal gentleman: handsome, polite, witty, kind, and strong of character. He also loved Victoria for herself -- not her throne. I really liked how Victoria eventually acknowledged that she needed to let Albert assist her in ruling, especially since you don't see that much in modern films. I can't give an honest opinion on the historical accuracy, though, since I haven't done much studying on the real Queen Victoria. *blushes* This film definitely got me excited to do a little more research behind the longest reigning monarch in British history.

Pros: The story really draws you in and the dialogue is wonderful. The soundtrack took my breath away and added the perfect touch to each scene. The costumes are lovely and almost completely modest, which made me happy, since in most period dramas I have seen the ladies wear extremely low-necked gowns.

Cons: There is quite a bit of romance between Victoria and Albert. Most of it happens after they are married, which makes it not so bad, but it's still there. We skipped one or two scenes; not because they were necessarily inappropriate, just kind of awkward. There is some violence, but it is more dramatic than bloody. One use of the word "d--n".

Memorable Quotes:

Victoria: "You don't suggest I find a husband to play it for me?"

Albert: "I should find one who would play it with you, not for you."

Victoria: "Some palaces are not at all what they seem. Even a palace can be a prison."

Prince Albert: [accepting his letter from Victoria] "As a matter of interest, will a time come when I read them first?"

Baron Stockmar: "You'll enjoy this. She has a real flair for description."

*romantic sigh*

Victoria: [to the Council] "I am young, but I am willing to learn, and I mean to devote my life to the service of my country and my people. I look for your help in this. I know I shall not be disappointed."

Queen Adelaide: "You are confusing stubbornness with strength, my dear. And I warn you, the people will not like you for it."

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

And my ending thoughts are: go see it! My main complaint about the movie was that it seemed far too short (that's a good sign, right? :)).

Elizabeth Rose (also called Elizabeth, Lizzy Rose, or just plain Lizzy) is a young lady trying to do her best to live her life to His glory in a sinful world. She is far too old-fashioned for her own good. She loves long skirts, lace, period dramas, window seats, and chatting with dear sisters in Christ over a cup of Irish Breakfast tea. Elizabeth is happily living at home, taught and instructed by her dear parents, along with her many little siblings. She blogs at Living on Literary Lane, where she reviews works of literature, posts poems, and shares her thoughts on every important matter under the sun, and at Unsinkable, an event blog she hosts with her sister dedicated to the centenntial of the sinking of the R.M.S. Titanic.

A Reminder

2011-09-22T20:56:00.000-04:00

Näna here...stealing a moment here for a few reminders...

1. Vote for Mom! We've been tracking her progress and she's falling behind. So go here and vote, vote, vote. Please. 10 brownie points for the first to vote!

2. Have you entered the great movie giveaway? Check it out and enter. FYI, I changed a few of the mandatory entries....there just seemed to be too many.

3. I'm here. And have an amazing time. See ya when I get back!

Love ya....

So Long and Thanks For All the Fish 2011

2011-09-16T03:00:00.001-04:00

And now it's time for the part of the year where Näna leaves very early in the morning for a tropical island and announces to you how you are to survive while she is away.

In other words, it seems wrong to leave you for two whole weeks without any source of entertainment. The remedy? Guest posters, giveaways, a whole bunch of cool stuff. I know you guys are going to have a great time!

Want to know more? Press play and I'll tell you all about it.

Sound like fun? Personally, I'm really excited about it -- and I won't even be here! :) As I said in the vlog, some great Etsy designers have very generously offered to host a few movie themed giveaways too add to the excitement.

sinatra vinyl removable laptop decal from Stikrz

marilyn monroe vinyl removable iPad decal (i believe it will also work on a laptop) from Stikrz

singing in the rain movie poster magnet from cross-eyed cat gifts

grace kelly vintage postage stamp pendent from verde studio

singing in the rain stationary set from lotus tree crafts

custom printable movie themed birthday party full set from poshtique

anyone know what book/movie this is from?

"in vain i have struggled" quote necklace from bookish charm

printable PDF movie themed party pack from typewink

time goes by bottle cap necklace from attic 802

one of my favorite film couples in one of my favorite movies!

"the thin man" nick and nora collage postcard from mysterious jottings

How to enter>>

(separate comment for each entry)

Mandatory entries:

-follow BTW (comment if you already do)

-"heart" one of the sponsors shops

Extra entries:

-comment and tell me your favorite movie

-blog/post/tweet about this giveaway

-have BTW's button on your sidebar

-follow Poshtique's blog

-(if you have a FB account) "friend" Poshtique on Facebook

-tell me what movie/book the Bookish Charm quote necklace is from (no fair Googling it or looking in her store!)

Have fun and I will see you when I return!

Love ya guys,

Näna

"Those were the best days of my life"

2011-09-15T21:18:00.000-04:00

Planning, packing, preparing...planning, packing, preparing...

Running on coffee and carrot juice.

My brain is spinning with to-do lists and don't forgets.

We are all afraid to sit down because then we won't be able to get up again. :P

But I don't care. 'Cause guess what? Come 3am I'm out of here. Can we say "sunshine on my shoulder"*?

Yep, I'm on "V.A.C.A.T.I.O.N. Gonna have a ball."**

I'm ready for some "changes in latitude"*** and some "changes in attitude would be nice too"*** :)

And "Summer of '69" is running through my head. (hence the title) Which, by the way, is one of Winnie's favorite songs. Whenever it comes on she starts smiling, and then her hands start moving, and then her legs start kicking, and then she's looking around trying to find out where the sound's coming from. So cute. I love seeing her starting to notice the world.

Check back here tomorrow for something really sweet coming up.

Cheerio and see you soon!

Until then,
Näna

footnotes:
* : "Sunshine on My Shoulder" by John Denver
** : "Vacation" by Connie Francis
*** : "Changes in Latitude, Changes in Attitude"

Vote for ACP!

2011-09-14T16:49:00.000-04:00

Watch and vote.

That's all you have to do.

Do it for Mom.

Or me.

Or Winnie.

Take your pick.

Vlog 9/14/11 with special guest star, Winnie...

Still here? Go vote! Every day between now and October 3rd.

Thank you! :)

Love ya...

Never Forget

2011-09-11T08:14:00.002-04:00

What possesses someone to kill 2,000 + innocent people in such a horrendous, cowardly way and rejoice in doing it?

What drives someone to that extreme?
Hopelessness

Could it be because they're religion teaches the only way to gain access to their heaven it through good works?

Could it be because they see the death of Americans, their great devil, to be the ultimate honor?

Desperate

These people have never experienced the beautiful love of God the way we have.

These people's god is someone to be feared -- one who loves death....not the God we know who has no pleasure in death (Ezekiel 33:11).

They need love

Unless they take their own life while taking the lives of others, there is no assurance that when the die their good will out weigh their evil.

Unless we choose to love instead of hate -- to feel their pain and realize where they're coming from, they will die without knowing their Savior.

We need to tell

One of the most often uttered phrases after a tragedy is "why would a loving God allow this to happen?"
One of the rarely stated truths is "because something greater is coming".

What's coming?

How many times has the anniversary of 9/11 passed and we have not even acknowledged it?

How will the future generations remember if us who lived through it can not be bothered?

Never forget

Look at the videos and the photographs from the bombings.

Look to people who were older in 2001 and ask them.

Remember

[source]
What is it that stands when the world falls apart?

Today feel pride for your country.

Mourn for those who died.

Pray for our enemies.

Love our enemies.

And never, ever, forget.

p.s. Join me and my family today at 8:46am (EST) for a moment of silence and prayer.

"It was a dark and stormy night..."

2011-09-09T16:34:00.001-04:00

9/5/11 had been a long day. Thoroughly exhausted and feeling very sick from the watermelon eating contest that had just finished. Pa was tucking the little guys in bed, Mom was blogging, and KK, Emma, and I had crashed in Mom and Pa's room and were setting up to show Pa the (really awesome) movie of our 2008 Disney World trip I had just finished publishing. As we are sitting there the power flashed once, then twice, three, four, five times and then -- darkness. We waited for a few minutes but then realized that it wasn't coming back.

I frantically checked my laptop battery (the one we were getting ready to watch the movie one and (thankfully) it still had 1.5 hours on it. *phew* It was bad enough the internet was down but my computer being dead too may have sent me into total panic mode.

We adore mysteries in our family. We'll take "It was a dark and stormy night..." over "Once upon a time..." any day of the week (and twice on Sundays).We also love comedies. Put these together and you have such epic flicks such as Murder by Death, Clue and Private Eyes. We would call these "dark stormy night movies". These films are great any time but they are best on dark, stormy nights.

While tropical storm Lee poured down it's furry we cuddled up, bemoaned our lack of popcorn, and laughed like a bunch of idiots at Murder by Death. Our power came back even before the movie ended (just when my computer needed more juice) but we turned the lights out and continued in our dark stormy nightness.

Our weather forecast looks like this:

^forecast like this just make me more excited about not being here in seven days :) ^

And we have exhausted our dark stormy night movies.

So I need to know...any suggestions?

Hugs,

Näna (who is starting to think she's a duck)

You MUST read this.

2011-09-06T21:39:00.000-04:00

For those of you who don't yet know, my mom is the one who got me started in blogging back in 2009. She blogs over at Art's Chili Pepper where you can always find thoughtful, humorous...in other words, awesome posts.

Yesterday she posted one of the best posts of her 850+ posts (I almost teared up while reading it...and that's saying something). It's beautiful, profound, and gets across a message that I really think everyone (including me) needs to hear. It's is long but just keep reading because every word is perfect so please go make it to the end. I'll shut up now and let you see for yourself. Read on >>

Another Point of View
by CP

I have always enjoyed having a manicure or pedicure. Because it is expensive, I don't treat myself frequently but I will sometimes use my birthday gift money for this purpose. A few years ago, before we left on vacation, I wandered into a salon I had not used before and asked for a pedicure. I had become accustomed to the pleasant and friendly service of the place I have gone before. I was quite taken back by the rude manicurist and a less than nice job. I gave her the benefit of the doubt, though, because everyone has a bad day once in a while.

Now, lest you think I am a grumpy person and hard to please, that is really not the case. In fact, I challenge myself to take the grumpy waitress or store clerk and have that person smiling before my business with them is done. This drives my family crazy, because it often means a five minute trip to Walmart will take 30, as I chit chat with the person running the register or a customer I met in the toilet paper aisle. But I always leave feeling better myself if I have done something to bring a smile to someone else.

No, this unpleasant woman, who mistakenly works in the service industry, was simply immovable in her bad attitude and bad mood.

The next time I had a little spending money for a pedicure, I returned to the same salon. As luck would have it, I was assigned to the same lady. And as it turns out, she was less than friendly and I was less than pleased with the job she did.

So much so, that in three years, I have not returned to her shop. I do business at a dry cleaners, a restaurant and a grocery store in that same shopping center, so I am often walking passed her place of business. Each time, I always think of this rude lady and how I will not give that place any more of my money for such an inferior job and poor customer skills. In fact, last week, my girlfriends and I were getting together to celebrate a birthday with dinner and pedicures. When Julie asked me where we should go I told her not to that shop because I didn't think they did a good job.

This Tuesday, Samuel and Winnie had to go to the doctors office to get shots. Sammy was so brave. Two big old needles and he didn't make one peep. I know it must have hurt like crazy, though. For one thing, he has no fat on his arms at all to buffer the pain. For another thing, his eyes got enormous when the second needle went in. I was so proud of him, I asked if he wanted to go out for a lunch date with me.

So we did. Samuel is not like most six year old boys. He didn't ask to go to McDonald's or Pizza Hut. He wanted to go out for Pho. Which works for me.

The Vietnamese restaurant happens to be next door to the nail salon with the grumpy lady. The weather was just beautiful, so we chose a table on the sidewalk and sat down to enjoy our meal together. After some delicious food and fun conversation with Sam and the waitress we've come to know, who should come and sit at the table beside us?

Yes, the manicurist I was telling you about. All by herself, she came and set her Tupperware lunch and a white envelope on the table, had a seat and started eating. Shortly after that, Samuel got up to wander inside for a leftover box and the manicurist commented on how adorable he is. Which, of course, he is. Then she asked if Carmella was a girl of a boy. (The hair bow, and flowered outfit she was wearing wasn't enough of a give away.) Then in her broken English she told me how lucky I was to have one of each. (Please don't get me started on that!)

Then she went on to say, I have a daughter. Trying to make conversation, I asked her how old her daughter was. "17." She said this was her senior year. I asked what school she went to, but I could not understand her answer and didn't want to ask her again and risk insulting her. (Does that ever happen to you?)

That's when Samuel came back with his box and I turned my attention back to him. As we were figuring the tip to leave, the manicure lady started talking to me again. "Do you want to see a picture?" she asked as she pushed the white envelope across the table towards where I was sitting.

"Sure, I would love to," I told her as I picked up the envelope and looked inside. There were three pictures of a stunning young lady with long black hair. As I looked at this women, worn from life's experiences, I could see the resemblance. I could also see the pride in her eyes as I told her how lovely her daughter was. I asked what her daughter would do after graduation and she shared with me plans for college and career.

Despite asking her twice,though, I am sorry to say, I could not make out what the proud mama was trying to communicate. Don't ask me why it caught my attention at that exact moment but this thought crossed my mind. As this lady stepped outside to eat lunch, she brought just two things with her, the meal and pictures of her daughter. It isn't like she had her purse stuffed with all her junk, like the one on the chair beside me, from where she pulled out a bunch of envelopes, papers and shopping list to hunt down the photo of her girl. She purposed to extract it from where ever it was and carry it to this sidewalk table for the few short minutes she would be sitting there eating her lunch.

Was it that she so loved her daughter that she doesn't even step outside the door without bringing her photograph or is it that she is so lonely she needs to hang on to those snapshots?

I know I don't like to go anywhere without my kids. I just love being with them and having them along with me for as long as we journey together on this earth. And when they aren't with me, I like to keep a photo in my purse, or in my Bible or somewhere close by my side. But as I looked at this lady and the envelope I had placed back on the table, I couldn't help but think the sadness in her eyes was best translated to a longing for lost hopes and dreams rather than the latter.

I was soon to find out the truth. Not knowing what to say next, since I couldn't make out the college or major her daughter was embarking on, I asked if she wanted to see the pictures of my children. Which caused her to eagerly shake her head.

I no longer carry wallet sized portraits of our family. They are too ridiculously small for our gang. The last few years the girls have put together small photo albums on Kodak or Shutterfly or one of those similar online stores. This is how I share photos of my gang when I run into old friends or curious strangers. So I pulled out my little album and handed it over.

She immediately was taken by the layout and design of the book. She was awed that Brianna could do so much and commented on how beautiful the pictures are. (Thank you Susan.)

Then she started counting kids. "Eight?" "Yes, that is right, eight." "Five girls and three boys?" "Yes." "Wow!" she said.

"You married?" she asked. "Yes," I told her. Then she asked which one was my husband. (Did you get that Allen, she couldn't tell you apart from the kids.) I pointed him out and next, she said, "You are lucky."

And she meant it. I could see her comparing her lot in life with my many blessings. Not in an angry or bitter way but just as a matter of fact. From the depths of her heart, I could feel her obvious pain in a less than happy history with her daughter's father. I replied with the only words that I could get out of my throat at that moment. "Yes, he is a very good man."

She asked how old I was. After taking a minute to calculate my age, I do try not to think about that too much, I answered her. She said, "Same as me." I said, "Is that so?" And then told her that it wasn't too late for her to have that son. She replied that, for her those things are passed.

I stared into her face as long as I could without seeming impolite and saw something different than just a rude manicurist who couldn't do a very good job. I was seeing this woman through an entirely different point of view. She was a woman who wasn't familiar with love or happiness. As young as she was, life was over for her. Now she was just biding her time until she draws her final breath. Worse than someone without a happy past or a happy today... she was a woman with no hope for a happy future.

My heart ached as I realized how close I had been to such a fate. Indeed, how close we all are to such a fate. It has been 17 years since I was saved and gave my life over to Jesus. I understand more today about the eventual eternity in hell and the horrible fate that awaits those who haven't been born again, than I ever did before. And because of that I share my faith every chance I get. This brings me so much joy in itself. But mostly I share because the picture of the torment that the lost will face one day haunts me and grips my heart with a physical pain I can not describe.

But this woman reminded me of another reason to share my faith. Without Jesus there is no hope for the sad, weary and down trodden. Without Jesus, everything looks dark and pointless. Without Jesus I would have been manicure lady. Without peace. Without joy. Without forgiveness. Without my amazing husband. Without my beautiful children. Without the hope of knowing there is an even more beautiful future awaiting me at the end of this life.

Even after leaving some Bible literature and information about a Bible study, I found it so hard to walk away and leave this woman so downtrodden and so hopeless. Her face has flashed into my mind more times than I can count in the last few days. And, although, I know her best hope for a better tomorrow are my prayers on her behalf, that still seems so inadequate. Perhaps, I will return to her salon some day after all.

But in the meantime, I will walk away from our brief encounter with a greater conviction to always look for another point of view.
________________

Wow.

Comment either here or on Mom's blog if this post touched you.

Love as always,
Nana

p.s. This song...one of my current favorites. And it seems to fit with the theme of this post.

Now We Are Six

2011-09-05T20:23:00.000-04:00

(i guess technically it should be "now i am sixteen" but "now we are six"works too well to pass up)

At last the pictures from my sixteenth birthday. It was mythical. And it was awesome. Therefore it was mythically awesome. (can you guess what mine and Aedan current favorite adjectives are?)

Any day that starts with Bible study and frozen coffee...

...followed by lox and bagels in the garden...

...and baby holding rights for the day...

...and a call from a special friend...

picture taken on phone

...and then Jersey Mike's big kahuna...

...picniced (is that a word?) at our special spot in the park...

...followed up by an afternoon spent blogging and swimming...

...and a picture of you and your mythically awesome mom in which you look very much alike...

...with seafood pasta and tiramisu trifle for dessert...

...a beautiful devotion written by Aedan...

...ending with Emma's extra-buttered popcorn and Poirot...

...well, that day can't help but be mythically awesome.

Have you had any great days recently? Tell me about it! I love hearing about mythically awesome days in mythically awesome people's lives.

Hugs,

Näna

I love this lady.

2011-09-03T13:16:00.000-04:00

Mom: *storming into the living room where I am holding baby* Girls, don't marry a man!

Me: *raising eyebrow* How about I just don't get married?

Mom: Whatever. Just don't let it affect with me having grandchildren.

Me: *smiling* That's what they adoptions is for.

Mom's interpretation of this verse:

It is better to dwell in the wilderness, than with a contentious and an angry woman.PROVERBS 21:19

"Boys, that is why it is important to always treat your wife right because if you don't you might as well be living in the wilderness or in the corner of a room."

I love this lady.

Tell me -- what is something you love about your mom?

Love ya guys,
Näna

Letters, Mac, Eggs, and Stocks

2011-09-01T19:00:00.000-04:00

Mac lovers, I need you attention for a second. Yesterday a friend (who also happens to be a neighbor...cool, right?) stopped by (to hold Winnie really but we like to think she stopped by to see us) and we started talking about Macs. You guys know where I stand on the topic (at least you should) but Mrs. R. is a hudge Mac/Apple fan. Of all the people who rave to me about the Mac operating system she is the first who has ever told me why they adore Mac. So Mac fans....this is your chance to speak up. What is it about Mac that makes you love them? (remember you're talking to a geek here, so good reasons please..."Oh my goodness Macs are the best thing ever and I love them!!!" doesn't count as a reason :P)

Has anyone else switched over to the new Blogger yet?
If you haven't, do it.
It's beautiful and I love it.
♥

3

Hard boiled eggs smell atrocious. Which really is a shame since they taste so darn good.

My sweet friend Olivia (formerly Lucie of Lucie Land) started a new blog, Begin the Beguine. I don't believe I ever properly introduced it to you so when she gave me a letter to post ten things I love that start with that letter I thought it was the perfect opportunity to introduce you.

Music

Movies

Martha Stewart

Mom (she really is great)

March Family (Hi, Jo! :P)

Muppets (as in the Muppets)

Marvin the paranoid android

Mustang GT Convertible (sweetness)

Mysteries (books, movie, Sherlock, Poirot...)

Mad Money (Jim Cramer show. Post coming on my stock obsession)

What are some of your favs that start with M?

I don't know why the topic of school is so fascinating to people but since everyone keeps asking, no, we have not yet started school, yes, I do wish we had started. We would start this coming Tuesday but since there are only nine school days (counting Saturdays) between the sixth and the day we leave for vacation it didn't seem worth starting just to have to stop again for two weeks. So first day of school will be October 5th (day after we get back). Yes, this will make getting the whole year in difficult (especially since we will also be gone November 4th to 20th) but we'll live. :)

Instead of doing a whole post on the aforementioned stock obsession I'll just talk about it here. I love stocks. The end.

I believe this fascination can trace back to the Jim Cramer's Mad Money. Not only does he make stocks interesting and easy to understand but he is so entertaining even the boys will sit through an hour of Jim Cramer. I get all his shows podcasted to my iPod...oh, yes. My mock-portfolio: Verizon, Apple and Kelloggs (among others).

Speaking of iPods, know what makes my little nerdy heart happy? 160 GB. *swoons* The nanos are awesome. I adore the nanos. But 160GB -- how can you turn that down?

On the non-technical side, Mom has invented the most awesome ice coffee recipe ever. It's exactly like Starbucks...only totally different. Gotta love it, peoples. I am not sure what I will do when summer ends and hot coffee comes back in season. I could share the recipe with you, but then I'd have to kill you. So come stop by some time and I'll make you one and we will chat and it will be great, 'kay?

Happy September! Guess what? In sixteen days I'll be laying on the beach of a tropical island. Can't. Wait.

What have you been up to, friends? I'd love if you left me a comment and let me know all the dirt.

Hugs,
Näna

VBS 2011

2011-08-27T16:58:00.000-04:00

(because if i don't post this now it will never be posted...and wouldn't that be sad? :])

August 8th we all donned our western garb and headed over to the church for the first night of Vacation Bible School. With the exception of Mom and Ellie (who had to stay home with Winnie) we were all volunteering. Funny thing to note here: I have volunteered more years for VBS then I have actually attended. That struck me the other week and I thought that was ironic. Anyway, we always have an great time. Thinking of all the kids receiving the Gospel who otherwise may never have heard is very rewarding in itself. And since I am around little kids 24/7 you could say that I was right in my element.

Before we left Mom insisted on a picture.

Or two. :)

My little dudes crack me up. All week they kept practicing "swaggering like a real cowboy". Ha!

Emma and KK were on the registration team this year. Lookin' beautiful as always.

I'm always impressed by how well VBS goes considering we are a small church. Of course, all glory goes to God but a lot of credit goes to our amazing director, Mr. Bob. Apart from his organization and planning skills and the awesome way he teaches the main class and keeps the kids attention he is also from Nebraska (aka. the west) so had the *perfect* accent for this year's cowboy theme.

Every night went something like this:

For the kids: Get registered, get your name tag, get your picture taken by one of the photographers on hand, get to the auditorium for group class.

For me (a teacher's helper for the 5-6 year old class): Get my name tag, report to class teacher (Mrs. Joy) for instructions, get done whatever she needed, get to the row where our class was and try to get them in some semblance of order, take kids to the bathroom (this happened a lot. I mean A LOT.)

Mr. Dean (Mrs. Joy's husband). An "assistant director" shall we say. He led the singing (aka. keeping the kids involved whenever there was a lull, technical difficulty, etc.) and taught the group class one night. Having raised nine kids (and being and engineer), he is wonderful at getting the kids laughing...the red high-top converse he wore with his western clothes verify this.

But before class came the coin march -- many kids favorite of the week. Basically it's boys-against-girls raising money for some missionary project (this year it was for Bro. Hammett in Botswana). Every night the kids bring coins and "march" up front by class to put them in the boy's or girl's buckets. To add even more fun each night there is a different denomination of money that gets them double point. Eg. Tuesday: pennies count for double, Wednesday: nickles count for double, etc. Very competitive and a blast for the kids. Plus a good cause. Win, win.

There's a story behind this picture: Sam forgot his coins so in the car on the way over I gave him some change to put in the boy's bucket. Even though he was really a volunteer the he liked to sit in the first class. So he goes up front and decides that it should go in the girls bucket because I gave him the money. The guy leading the coin march (also Sam) tried to tell him that he is putting it in the wrong bucket. But Sam knows what bucket he wants to put it in...but like a good boy does what he is told. Although he was heart broken. Later I had to explain that I didn't mean for him to put it in the girl's and he said, "I know. But I want the girls to win." That's my little gentleman! :)

My guys were in charge of counting the coins so after the march they went to one of the Sunday School rooms to count. Here they are hard at work. Once they were finished counting they headed home and I rode home with some friends after the kids were dismissed for the night, staff meeting, and clean up.

so concentrated.

After the coin march comes the puppet show, memory verse, and group class. Then the classes, except one are dismissed. They cycle through the age group classes in the auditorium, the individual classroom classes, etc.

Kelly leading the memory verse and puppet skit.

After class we headed outside for...

Game time!

But after all that running you have to cool down...and can you think of a better way to do that then with snacks? :)

From L-R: Lauren (in the blue-green shirt), Elisabeth, Mrs. Joy, Miss Jackie

Then all the classes come back together in the auditorium for prayer and dismissal.

But the last day is a bit different. For the big finale there is a carnival -- complete with games, food, and a moon bounce! The kids earn points all week by doing things such as bringing their Bible, memorizing their verses, answering questions, etc. to use for the games, rides, and junk food on Friday. Ellie way so excited because Friday Mom, Carmella, and she came as well.

Ellie played some games and had an all around good time.

notice she is dressed in her western clothes. Every night she dressed up, even though she stayed home. :)

KK worked at the snack table.

The boys visited with their friends.

I worked with another lady on face painting.

Here's the dorky face again. :)

It is always a blessing to be able to be able to help with VBS...being able to have a part in getting the good news to so many little ones. Such a great opportunity and outreach tool.

Up next...pics from my birthday!

Love as always,

Näna

Why I don't write fiction.

2011-08-23T16:39:00.002-04:00

I have always been the little entrepreneur. Don't be surprised if you one day find By the Way Industries a multi-mill company (think Martha Stewart Omnimedia [$222.314 mill]...ha!). My very first business venture was in December of 2003 when the first issue of VIEW magazine went to press. When I say "press" of course I am referring to the purple marker I used to hand write the first issue: two copies that were sold for $0.25 each. By March of 2004 VIEW was already working it's way up and was now being created on Microsoft Publisher. Each month KK, Mom, and myself would write the articles with occasional columns by our readers. It was fun but soon we got too busy and it went bankrupt (Hey, don't judge! Remember this was my first venture).

Yesterday we did the (much dreaded) task of cleaning out the schoolroom closet in preparation for the beginning of school and we came across tons of issues of VIEW. We have been having a blast reading through them and laughing at our editorials, society columns, book/movie reviews, and (the most embarrassing) poems and short stories.

There is a reason why I don't write fiction. I must love you guys more then my pride because I am going to share what convinced me of that fact (aka. two of my short stores) with you.

They are ridiculous (think deciding on a whim to climb Mt. Everest with your nine month pregnant wife and two year old son and it only taking ten days...never mind the fact that people train for years and it takes months to climb and few survive the extremes of this mountain) and weird (the way my heroes think of danger as a walk in the park and their horrible names) and, no, I don't have any idea where I got the ideas or what inspired me.

Feel free to laugh all your like. I did. I'm still laughing. :)

First the funniest (and my personal favorite)...

THE CLIMB
by Brianna Wachter

"I'd like to make an announcement", twenty-eight year old Frank said, banging his spoon against his cup. "Our family is going to climb Mount Everest."
"But Frank", said his twenty-five year old wife, Mary, "Only twenty percent of the people who climb Mount Everest live." She continued, "And Bertram is only two."
"I know", said Frank, "but our family needs to be more daring! We can go fishing and make s'mores."
"Okay", said Mary, "But when are we leaving?"
"Tomorrow", was his reply.
"Tomorrow?!" She protested. "But I won't have time to get ready and pack."

The next day after lots of packing and perparations, the family was in their five seat Jeep Cherokee.

Two hours later they were hiking up the mountain. "Let's pitch our tent here and then we can make some hot dogs for dinner", Mary pleaded.

Thirty or so minutes later the family was sitting around a campfire eating s'mores. "Tomorrow we'll wake up early and go fishing", Frank said.

Much to their disappointment they slept in until nine o'clock and by the time they were ready it was ten o'clock. After a one mile walk they were at the pond which seemed like forever to the toddler, Bertram, who couldn't wait to catch a squirmy fish.

Immediately after throwing their rods in each had caught a fish, even little Bertram with his Pooh Bear rob. Altogether they caught fifteen fish.

"This will keep us for awhile", exclaimed Mary.

They ate two fish each. Now energized they hiked two more miles. At eight o'clock, they settled in for the night and had more fish for dinner. As they ate, Frank said, "I think we should be able to be back by June second."

It took them three more days to reach the top.

"Look over there", said Mary, "That sign says that we are the fifth people to climb this mountain."

It took five more days to make the climb down and return home.

Two weeks later Bertram became big brother to a baby sister named Lily.

Laughing yet? No? Well, this will do it for ya.

LIFE IN THE JUNGLE
by Brianna Wachter

Lillian Jackson and her husband Jeremiah were in an airplane going to Messina, Italy for vacation. They lived in New Brunswick, Canada. While Jeremiah was playing a game of solitaire Lillian was reading the 501 Italian Phrase book.

All of the sudden the plane sputtered and sand low into an African jungle. This jungle was in Libya. They were greeted by a wild tiger. Lucky for them the tiger was chasing a Zebra for lunch.

At first everyone was rushing around the plane to make sure everyone else was safe. They were relieved to find that there was a doctor to fix a broken arm.

They found out where they were when a big fat snake fell on top of the plane. There was a young man with a life long interest in reptiles who recognized that snake as one that lived only in this part of the world.

Everyone speedily got their luggage and went their own way. Everyone besides the Jacksons. They decided they would live in the plane until they built a shelter to stay in.

One night while they were sleeping, Mrs. Jackson heard something moving around. "Honey, is that you?" said Lillian. There was no answer. Just the faint sound of Jeremiah's snoring. But the sound was still there.

She got out of bed to see a long black snake awaiting dinner. She screamed and ran out of the plane. She quickly discovered she wasn't much safer outside. There staring at her was a leopard! "Yikes!"

She got back in the plane. Inside the snake was gone.

She awoke to the sound of the captain's voice announcing the plane would be landing in thirty minutes.

THE END

I crack myself up.

Love to you people who must be really cool since I'm embarrassing myself for your entertainment...

Näna

p.s. Today we had a 5.9 earthquake. People, earthquakes NEVER happen in Maryland. For our friends who keep asking since the news is making a big deal about D.C. having an earthquake, everyone is okay except for being slightly freaked. You would too if you were eating your lunch outside when all of the sudden the world starts shaking. People out west, laugh all you like but an earthquake is big news here. Read about it here, here, and here.