Friday, July 30, 2010

A day with Dinos and Julia's Kitchen


A day well spent at the Natural History Museum.  The conversation in the car on the way, went something like this...
Mary Kate , "Where are the dinosaurs Charlie"
Charlie, "The dinosaurs lived a long time ago Mary Kate.  A long time ago, like with the princes and princesses and dragons."
Charlie. "Mommy, if the dinosaurs come back, I will fight them because I am going to be Batman.  Did you know that there are two Batmans in Gotham city?"
Me, "There are two Batmans?"
Charlie, "Yeah silly, Batman and me."
Dinosaurs were a hit, the ever so famous elephant at the grand entrance of the Natural History Museum and of course the gift shop!
Mimi and I took a quick peek at Julia Child's kitchen that was a featured exhibit at the American History Museum.  So great and so much more to see at the Am. Hist. Museum.  May need and adult day for that!  

Just a few quotes from Julia
• How can a nation be called great if its bread tastes like Kleenex?

Julia's Quote about American Food
• It's fun to get together and have something good to eat at least once a day. That's what human life is all about -- enjoying things.
Julia's quote about Friendship and Love.

Wednesday, July 28, 2010

Sigh of Relief


Our sweet Ms. Kathleen has decided to endure another year with the McCracken kiddos.  I can't tell you what a relief this is for our family, to know that our children are cared and loved for during the day.  Kathleen is like a second mom and Lillian like a sibling.  The necessity for both of us to work makes raising children a little more complicated.  Between Kathleen's love, the security of Charlie's preschool and of course Mimi love, I think my babes will be more than well off!  Thank goodness for the loving people in our lives.

Sunday, July 25, 2010

I do!

July 24th was Caitlin and Ted's wedding day and despite a heat index of 105 degrees, it was an amazing day.  I was so honored to be apart of this day.  It was so beautiful, getting ready, watching the bride put on her makeup cool as a cucumber, the portraits in the living room of her home and watching her mom hug her and say "I have had the best 24 years with you." made my mascara run very early.  As we stood in the heat, listened to the string trio, a kind minister, beautiful readings, and a touching song, I was reminded of the importance of patience in the covenant of marriage and life.  This wedding goes down in my books as one of the most well-done, lovely, organized and touching events.  The family and friends of the bride and groom poured their heart and soul into this day and it showed all the way until they pulled away in their red Corvette.  Thank you Caitlin and Ted for allowing me to be apart of this amazing day. Hugs
The ceremony was held at Ketoctin Church outside under an oak tree.  
8 years ago Nick and I got married inside this 200 year old church.  

Proud mother and father of the bride!

Thursday, July 15, 2010

blog crush

Thanks Joy, my new favorite place to visit.
Design Sponge
I love the sneak peeks!

Wednesday, July 14, 2010

The best day


I treated myself on my bday to a play at the Imaginarium Theater with two of the best dates ever.  How I became a Pirate was amazing, magical, funny and clever.   The kids and I had a ball and we finished our outing at my favorite place in the world.  IKEA!  We devoured meatballs with gravy and polished it all off with a sticky bun.
While sitting at the table, Charlie noticed a lot of babies running around.

He said, "I wish I had a baby.  Will God give us a baby?"
I said, "You have to ask God for a baby.  Sometimes he gives you one and sometimes he doesn't.  But I don't think mommy is ready to ask God for a baby."
He said, "Well maybe if you eat all these meatballs, you can have a baby!"

Oh sweet Charlie.  Yes, the meatballs were amazingly good but I am not sure there is that kind of magic behind them!

Saturday, July 10, 2010

Oh River

The river and I have this love/hate relationship.  I love the peacefulness, nature, wildlife and stones.  I hate the fungus, slimy bottom and did I mention dirtiness?  Yes, while my husband and children swim and relax, I stay a fully clothed bystander.  I may just pick up a rock or two to skip, but that is about it.  Oh River...how I love and hate you at the same time.  I am imagining my very own saltwater pool with only my germs.

Thursday, July 8, 2010

Bunk Bed perfection

Click HERE to see the perfect bunk beds for small spaces.  I want this for my basement.  I had to request a quote.  Resource Furniture is located in NYC on 3rd ave.  I have a feeling these bunk beds are not within my budget.  Ho hum... I can dream... right?

Wednesday, July 7, 2010

You've been invited to have tea with the queen!

Our adventure today was inspired by the children's book Tea for Ruby, written by The Duchess of York ; Sarah Ferguson


Charlie and Mary Kate were invited to have tea with the Queen! We made crowns, put our pretties on, put on a handsome shirt and made a tie.  Cheers!

101 summer meals

NY Times 101 summer meals

Tuesday, July 6, 2010

New blog crush

Love this fashion blog, check it out - The Sartorialist

Monday, July 5, 2010

Lovey Dovey

When I was in OH visiting my sis, hubby texted..."mommy loves me. mommy loves me. mommy loves me all." Love-Mary Kate

My girl is such a lover

Sunday, July 4, 2010

happy 4th


Hot day in VA.  Started the day marching to patriotic music outside.  Sprinkler fun and a handmade slip and slide was next.  Turns out I grew up with store bought yellow slip and slides with a small pool to catch you and Nick grew up with handmade slip and slides with a good ol' hose!  Either way, they still make for some fun!

Sending love to my sister Kelly!  She is the strongest person I know.  Kell... I hope you get to the rooftop of the Cleveland Clinic to watch some fireworks. 
Tub time, pajamas fireworks for us!