Ringing in 2012

It's just another New Year's Eve... Which means fun and merriment with our neighbors/friends - who are much more like family.  We celebrated with fabulous appetizers and drinks at Kerry & Dodi's house, followed by  a delicious dinner, fun and games, champagne and cheers all around as 2012 began.

Here are some views from our evening!

~ My Tablescape ~

~ We played a little game with quarters... passing money back and forth around the table... too fun and a whole $6 at stake for each game. ~

 ~ Next we played B.S.... a fun card game where you call each other out when you think they're fibbing about what cards they are placing in the pile.  Cindy won, Alyssa came in second and then Dodi.  There was a lot of laughter during this game! ~

 ~ Apples to Apples was next.  Always a crowd pleaser ~

 ~ When we play, we say whatever cards you won describe you.  Here are our descriptions for the night... Hmm, my cards say I'm crazy!  What do you think?? ~

 ~ The guys waiting for midnight ~

 ~ Alyssa, Kerry & Dodi ~

Wishing everyone a prosperous and Happy New Year!

Christmas Day

Christmas day was quiet and wonderful. Our morning was spent at home where we opened presents, had breakfast, and just enjoyed each other. John had asked for only money, iTunes gift cards and salmon. Yes, I said SALMON! He loves baked salmon and wanted one all to himself. So, he got one! Along with some Ramen with iTunes gift cards attached.

~ John... Santa's Helper ~

In the afternoon we went to Richard's sisters house.  Kelly & Jay made a wonderful meal of Prime Rib for all of us to enjoy!  The whole family was there - almost.  We were missing Holly, D.J. and Canon.  I didn't take a lot of pictures - but here is what I did take!

~ Sweet Rowan coloring ~

 ~ Our nephew David and his beautiful wife Sara.  Rowan and Finley are their children. ~

 ~ Richard with Rowan hiding in the background.~

 ~ John - taking it all in ~

 ~ Our little princess, Finley.  She was so adorable and wanted me to take pictures of ALL of her princess accessories ~

It was a wonderful day full of family, laughter, love and excellent food.  Merry Christmas to all - and to all a good night!

The Stockings Were Hung

Decorating my home at Christmas time brings me great joy.  Gently unwrapping ornaments and decorations from my childhood - memories each and every one.  And, we make new memories too.  Every year new ornaments and decorations are added!

 The "Mulligan Family" decoration was a present from our dear friends and neighbors last Christmas.  Each year we exchange ornaments or decorations.  Love this new addition to my collection.  I guess I can't get anymore kitties - because the entire family is represented here!

In the early 1960's my Mother made this Angel and Madonna for my Aunt Mary.  They are made of material and Styrofoam forms.  I had forgotten all about them - but last year when my Aunt was moving she asked if I wanted them.  That was so kind of her.  I cried when I opened the package.  Such a treasure. I cherish them, AND my Aunt for wanting me to have them.

Nutcrackers - Nutcrackers - Everywhere!

Even the kitchen table got into the act this year.

Before - During - After

The small icicles belonged to my Father when he was a little boy.  They are probably even older than that.  Another of the treasures that I hold dear.  These haven't been on our tree since J.J. was born.   He had never seen them before.  It's time to take them out and enjoy them again. 

As I create this blog post I am listening to the Bing Crosby Christmas Record with the Andrews Sisters.  Another great memory of Christmas times gone by and loved ones who I miss tremendously.

Hope your halls are decked and that you're enjoying the season with those you hold dear.

Happy St. Patrick's Day

May the Irish hills caress you.
May her lakes and rivers bless you.
May the luck of the Irish enfold you.
May the blessings of Saint Patrick behold you.

From our home to yours -

Happy St. Patrick's Day.

Mardi Gras Celebration

Each year we celebrate Mardi Gras, usually the Saturday before "Fat Tuesday".  This year was no exception.  We celebrated last Saturday. 

We love to be surrounded by those that we love to enjoy good food, wonderful drink, and music from our beloved New Orleans.

Our friend, Robin, contributed a delicious bouillabaisse to the meal.  Here "Chef Robin" is being silly and giving his fabulous creation a little taste.

Dodi and Kerry enjoying the festivities.

Rob and Richard

Scott and Dodi

Robin with his beautiful daughters.  They helped prepare the bouillabaisse.

Travis and his Dad being "Rock Stars" on Guitar Hero

The evening was wonderful.  We really enjoyed the fun times with our wonderful friends.

Happy Mardi Gras everyone! 

Laissez les bon temps rouler... That means - Let the Good Times Roll!

Happy New Year 2011

Another year has come and gone.  I can't hardly believe it!  The days, weeks and months seem to fly by faster and faster.

2010 was a year full of ups and downs.  We said final goodbyes to some friends, which was terribly sad.  But I reconnected with my Uncle, from whom I had been estranged for many years.  We made new friends in the last part of the year, and relationships with existing friends and family were strengthened.  There were some health scares for some family members, but thankfully - and with God's good grace - everything turned out well.

As the year came to a close, we celebrated with a small group of friends - and we had an amazing time.  I don't think I've laughed that hard in a very long time... and the laughter and love was quite welcome.  Here are few photos from a very fun evening.  Happy New Year everyone.  May 2011 bring love, happiness, health, joy and prosperity to us all.

My tablescape to bring in the New Year

Alyssa & Dodi

 Scott, Alyssa & Dodi

 Rob - who kept us in stitches most of the night

 Richard and Me 

 Rob and Me

 Scott and Me 

 Dodi, Kerry & Alyssa

 Robin & Me

Christmas 2010

Christmas was a bit low-key this year.  We didn't even really take many photos.  It was a quiet day - filled with love and family... but the camera didn't make much of an appearance this year.  Here are a couple of photos... just to prove we actually did celebrate... especially "Skittles" as you can see by the photo below!

 John in his new robe and jammies... with Miss Coco

Went with colored lights on the tree this year.  It was nice for a change.

We hope your Christmas was Merry & Bright!

A Very Ya Ya Christmas

This year it was my turn to host the Ya Ya Christmas Party.  I had a great time planning the evening, decorating the table, and preparing for Miss Brenda's birthday!  There is never a dull moment when my girls and I get together - and there is always a ton of laughter and fun too.  This evening was NO exception!

Happy Holiday's to Everyone!

My tablescape for the evening

A little mood lighting

My girl Adrienne & Me

 Adrienne, Laura & Kathy

 Jamie & Adrienne

 Miss Brenda preparing the soup

 Adrienne, Jamie & Laura during present opening

 Miss Brenda with the birthday present I gave her

Laura made the cake and INSISTED on putting ALL the candles on to account for Brenda's years.  It was hilarious! 

A little photo editing fun with Piknik in Picasa