32 today

Today my little soldier turns 32. Now, that is unbelievable cause I am way too young
to have a 32 year old son-hehe. This post is for Jeff. I don't know if he will
even see it since their internet service is wonky at best.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY JEFF!

The picture above was taken in 1981. Halloween. You were 2
and wanted to be an "army guy".
Here we are, 30 years later and you are a soldier.
For real.

We are so proud of you. You and your family have made
huge sacrifices. Andrea will probably be walking by the
time you meet her (she is soooo adorable).

You have brought so much to my life.
Love, laughter, joy.
I am so proud to call you my son.

I hope you have the best day you can possibly have.
We are there with you in spirit.

I love you.

XOXO and a big salute.

A "frenchy" Valentine's Day

During our long marriage (o.k, not that long- only 7 years), Hubby and I have
had the opportunity to spend Valentine's day in some wonderful places.
Can you tell from the photo above that I am collecting ephemera
for the grans? They will have quite the collection someday.

A few years ago we were in the South of France for that special day.

The hotel was a favorite of mine from the "old" days.
One of the restaurants in the hotel was having a special ROMANTIQUE
dinner. It sounded like it would be spectacular. We decided to
find a small, local place. It was the right decision.

We were able to celebrate with some French families.
This was a highlight for both of us.

Today finds us at home, and that is just fine with me.
However, just to keep the "French is a state of mind" thing going,
I have some treats for you.

French goodies from LADUREE.
Their site is magical. A must visit.

Of course, our own Julia, has French goodies as well.
She is the real deal and so talented!

I couldn't let this day go by without telling you that I love all of you.
Tell someone you love them today. It could be a friend, your dog, yourself.
Those words have power.

Have a love filled day!

Don't mess with grandma

You have probably already seen this on the news.

I have to say that I was amazed by this grandma's bravery and the lack
of help (initially) from those just watching.
The robbers had sledgehammers, the grandma had a handbag.
I know my handbags are always heavy, I'm guessing that yours are too!
After seeing this, I think I will keep my handbag fully loaded-hehe.


Hugs,
Barb

P.S. Annika is A. O.K- Thank you God!

A trip underground

I grew up on National Geographic magazine. I think many of us did.
My dad enjoyed it and always had copies at his little barber shop.
This was good reading material while waiting for that hair cut or shave.

One of my favorite things to do as a kid, was to go over to his shop,
sit down, and read NG. Always fascinating.

When I saw the cover of the Feb. issue it reminded me of
my dad and an interesting little excursion I had in Paris years ago.

The article is UNDER PARIS, SECRETS BENEATH THE STREETS.
Trust me, you'll enjoy the read.

I knew about the catacombs (did the tour) but did not realize
that there were so many tunnels and old quarries underneath the city.

In 1961 there was a collapse and a neighborhood was swallowed.
Makes you think of Paris in a different way.
There are even people called "cataphiles" that spend time underground.
Definitely not for me-hehe.

If you have the chance, pick up the issue. If you are a "woman of a certain age",
it will probably bring back some memories.
You will never look at Paris in the same way.

Now on a different note. Please say a little prayer for Annika.
Tomorrow she is having a very grown-up procedure done.
Today is the pre-op work.
I am saying my prayers that all is well. We certainly appreciate any prayers we can get for my little sweetpea.


Big hugs,
Barb

P.S. I would love for you to stop by facebook if you have the chance.
Just click on the button on the sidebar.
It really is such an easy way to get updates.

Another big hug!