Be my Valentine

Happy Valentine's Day Everyone!!

Today is Valentine's Day and my poor hubby's gotta work

but we will celebrate tomorrow night when he's off :)




Print of vintage Loveland map

 

 Boy, Saturday was busy! First my mother "Fairy Godmother" and I  hosted a lovely tea.

She out did herself this year by making everything herself from the teas with little molded hear sugars, to the soup, scones with cream, sandwiches, cookies, various sweets and my personal favorite the her Queen of Heats Tarts (Yummmers!) I love the fact that we used my grandmother's beautiful old china and mixed it vintage pressed glass plates, short and sweet etched glass goblets for water paired with pink pretty heart shaped tea cups. It was a sweet and  intimate tea with just the K family women.

As soon as I get them downloaded I'll post pictures.

Then that night Nick and I had an invitation for dinner and games sister C and her family (yes, the twins too) For dinner and games. C's husband clunked out at the begining of a game of pictionary and C almost won just by the all plays alone lol.  I got to hold A+ again and feed him.

So to sum it up. We laughed, we ate too much (painfully so,never eating meals like that so close together) we had fun!

Hope  your Valentine's Day is A Sweet one!

Wishes from Wonderland

~ Alice

Happiness is a new baby...or Two



It's a brand new year and a year of firsts!



Case in point: The Twins.

After a long awaited arrival (I mean we all seriously thought we were gonna end up at the hospital Christmas Day!) the F twins

which, shall now be known on here as A (girl) and  A+ (boy) have arrived.  My beautiful sis-in-law C and her husband welcomed the pair January 26, 2011 at 12:35 am.  It seems surreal that the little ones are now here. As much as we would have liked to, Nick and I decided against going to the hospital. We figured that C would  be exhausted and needed her rest. She was there since the following morning after all. And since the weather and Nick's hours weren't really cooperating it seemed more logical to just wait till they got home. So, on Saturday we got to meet the pair for the first time! We got to hold them and Nick even got to feed A. It was quite an enjoyable evening. They are just soo small. All their clothes and hats were just too darn big!  A+ started to fuss a bit and I sang him to sleep. Just like I did with Giggle-Belly eight years prior. We were also treated to a tour of the nursery my talented mother-in-law hand painted a jungle featuring a monkey,giraffe,owl in a tree and even had sparkly butterflies and bumble bees fluttering around the wall. I apologise for no pictures of this since we uhh.. I mean I forgot our camera. (I still can't believe I left the Flip at my parents.) The babies were teeny, tiny and sweet as can be. We are looking forward to being a part of their lives as they grow. 

*Update on our TTC Journey: After a vacation nightmare at Disney World (No, I'm not gonna get into that now. Let's just say it was a very Un-Disney experience and will take some coaxing to really go back) I woke up to find that that my missing Aunt had arrived. This is the first time she's visited in over a year now. Must have been that I was distracted and couldn't count the calories not to mention having Hot Chocolate and other foods I haven't eaten in a long, long time. It seems silly to get excited about receiving AF but, considering that this is a sign from my body saying I'm healthier and we can now proceed with *Hope* I finally have a cycle again. I will start charting and might even pick up a BBT (Basal Body thermometer)

We'll be Wishing, Hoping and Praying that 2011 is our year!

Wishes from Wonderland

~ Alice

Yabba Dabba Doo!

Yabba.. Dabbba.. Doo...!

  I just went to google something and got majorly sidetracked when I saw this at the top of the search page. Come on, you knew I had to take a closer look. Well….whadya know? Turns out the Flintstones debuted fifty years ago today. Somehow, I almost missed this one? Did you?

Since as far back as I can remember the Flintstones have been one of my all time favorite cartoons.

They hark en back to a simpler time. I loved when we would go to breakfast at Denny’s with my grandparents and there to greet me was that fun paper kids menu with the modern stone- age family. (Boy, it would be nice If Denny’s would bring ‘em back) As an 80s/90s kid who remembers delighting in watching the old Fruity Pebbles commercials and Flintstones Cartoons playing on my Grandparents large 13” TV with the rabbit ears up.. Back then I used to think how cool it was that my grandfather had the same name as Barney Rubble! His name is actually Bernie not Barney but when your five it’s all the same hahaha . Even today, I still check for The Jetsons meet the Flintstones in every pile of VHS tapes I run across.Technically, I believe it’s mom and dad who I have to thank introducing me to the town of Bedrock. Personally, I feel the Flintstones is one of those hand me down classic cartoon characters. They are intergenerational. They are able to be enjoyed on two levels. The first and probably the most obvious is the kid level. The second is the adult level. As, there are various situations and jokes that an adult can pick up on where most likely a child won’t.  So, many great cartoons worked on these levels back in the day and unfortunately, they aren’t found too much in modern children's television anymore. These were characters/shows that had charm! They just put a smile on my face and clearly my mom’s as well (she has the awesomest juice glasses to prove it.) I always found the prehistoric invention critters intriguing.   Pebbles is probably my favorite (I have the t-shirt and pencil to prove it.) Most my favorite episodes where after she was born. Dino is a very close second. I remeber sitting at our kitchen table waiting to see which cheweable bedrock buddy mom would give me out of the flinstones vitamin jar. I tend to get excited when I run across  the older versions of hanna barbera illustrations.  Ahh, retro-Americana nostalgia at it’s best! Since I now and will at least for the rest of the day have the theme song playing in my head. Well, that and the image of Fred and Barney ridding that stone piano down the street singing the “Happy Anniversary” song. So,  I’ll  finish this up with a great big
"Yabba.. Dabba.. Dooo...!"

       

        Wishes from Wonderland

                        ~ Alice

 

Introducing Celebration Saturday

 It's Celebration Saturday  and I can't think of a more perfect way to start it off then by talking about my Mom's Business. Especially, considering her van is on it's way to create a Fancy Nancy Soiree for some lucky little girl.

 First off Meet my Mother Marietta

 She is the owner of http://www.fairygodmotherandco.com/

Her company specialises in the most  heartfelt and charming events. She's got an awesome talent for baking, telling stories,crafting and all around entertaining!  She's a mom, grandmother, and my best friend. Being a Mary Poppins of sorts. The events she does is mostly for children. She is well known for her "Manners Please Girl Scout Teas" and "Mommy and Me Teas" here in Central PA.  Although, they have done and can do bridal, baby showers and small weddings. Infact she and dad were a huge help to Nick and I with our wedding. Actually, if you are in need any celebration they are the one to call. Indeed , she is "Fairy Godmother"

 

I do a lot of the design and idea aspect for the business and I really enjoy it.  But, it's mom who really shines. I mean it! I've seen her in action and she just simply "Sparkles" 

Her and Dad "Run the show" so to speak.  They are two of the most dedicated and compassionate individuals. They often add "little extras" that don't normally come with the packages "just because" they want to make the event extra special for the person.  

 Practically everything used for an FGM&CO event has been augmented somehow. Very little hasn't been handmade or modified. The parties them self have a homespun feel and are never cookie cutter. Maybe, this is why they often get asked for the same party the following year.

  Let me give you a glimpse of the type of things they did while when my brother and I were growing up.

  Starting with our homemade Halloween costumes. It began with my brother Mark's  first little angel one (make-shifted from mom's slip from Christmas garland and a coat hanger to his ingenious  McDonalds French Fries costume. I remember the four of us carrying all that foam home lol. . She always used to sew my dresses when I was little (pure talent I tell you. We still have a few of my favorites. And She made my niece's Alice flower girl dress based off of my childhood pink dress) And Her Fairy Godmother dress is a favorite of mine.

Birthday cakes were the best!  They where made with love just as her party cakes are made today. Mom made R2D2 and Kermit the frog for my brother before there was even a Wilton version.

I remember to this day all my cakes and even how they tasted. There were very few years we bought my cake I think maybe 2 of them were from the store. Her pirate cupcakes are definitely a favorite of mine. Jeez Louise! mom even made the edible map. Whoa!

We always were involved in some sort of activity or show at the Music and Theatre workshop. Mom, Mark and I were often in the cast (I was always grabbed to walk on set. Not sure why, but they always used to ask me to come on set when they needed a little girl who would take direction. I loved this. lol)

Mom, Mark and I would sing,dance,act. Dad wouldn't sing but he would act, work the technical aspect and do voice work.

Mom was even in the touring troupe of the Bollin Sisters (Linda Clay, Oh shoot I forget her name, and Marietta) They were often asked to preform as their characters from Annie. These ladies were oh so cute as the Blonde,Brunette,and Redheaded sisters. I even remember their Christmas Show

 Holidays with the family rocked my socks!

 Even when they would come up with something last minute. It still rocked!

This post is turning into "Extreme Memories Family Edition" so I'll just wrap it up by saying they rocked one last time.

Mom, also has years of experience in working with and teaching children.

Another thing about them is that they  are quite humble about their talents.  I'm not saying they aren't proud of their work. I'm just saying they don't boast or brag.  Maybe that's the reason they are blessed with them?  

In case you recognised the name. Fairy Godmother & Coterie were one of the featured finalist in the Ford Connect with Connect contest.

The pictures are all from various FGM&CO parties and events. If you would like hear or see more please feel free to contact me.

Or if you want more info you can contact them at either http://www.fairygodmotherandco.com/ or 717-292-7465

If you do and mention my blog post don't be suprised if they are shocked to hear this. As, they have no clue I'm posting this. Hmm.. maybe I should give them a call after the party.

Well, that's enough rabbit hole jumping for today!

                                                           Wishes from Wonderland

         ~ Alice 

Celebration Saturday seems like Sad Saturday

 Warning: This post is very personal. It contains my mind's trappings and long incoherent ramblings!

              Today, we were supposed to go with my husband's family to Knobels for some good old fashioned fun. One of the reasons that didn't pan out is because I have Nick my sweet snoring husband SOTC (sick on the couch). Poor, guy.

Another, is I haven't been feeling so good myself. A tickle in my throat that started the other night (I heart ricola honey lemon), and the strange pain in my lower abdomen that began a few weeks back. Since the through ultra sound in which they got to get up close and personal with  the lightsaber errr... I mean probe showed everything to be fine.( It's clearly not since sometimes this pain lands  me on my knees.)  I now have a appointment on the 23rd with  GI Joe (Gastrointestinal specialist).  Which, coincidentally is when my father is having surgery to remove his gull bladder. It's not the removal of his gull bladder that upsets me. It's what they might find. See, my dad needs a kidney and if they find any form of cancer in his gull bladder he will not be permitted to have one. He's my hero and an amazing man. I pray everything goes well. I'm also awaiting a very important call. Looks like I'll be calling them Monday as suggested by my midwife.

Hmm is this  getting extremely jumbled and confusing you?
Allow me to try and bring you up to speed. Nick and I are decided to have a baby. However, we have run into an issue. Due to the fact that I have had no cycle for almost a year now and that I went into an anorexic spin after experiencing a tragic event (it was horrible, and left me feeling like I had no control that's all you need to know.) I'm told that the lack of fat may play into the fact that I'm not ovulating but it has nothing to do with what I eat. My lowest weight was 93-94 lbs. I was weighed the other week and came in at around 104 now. (The all ice cream lunch and fast food dinner my family Dr prescribed wasn't really building till I added in the cheerios and apple snack. Go figure?) My father's condition combined with the waiting for a call (all week) from the Fertility Specialist's Center has left my mascara running. I can't seem to stop crying. I know I should be happy that I'm being referred but it still hurts and everywhere I look I see children and babies and families. *Sigh* It's frustrating when you see family all around and pregnant women who weren't even trying to get pregnant. Even, Nick's sister C is pregnant with twins. Don't get me wrong, I love her and very happy for her. I wish only the best for her family of little monkeys (monkeys is what she calls them).

      So, my vision is obstructed by bellies and babies. It would seem that even the pee stick (Ovulation test) has taken to mocking me. I've waited soo long for the smiley face to greet me only to see the dreaded goose egg.  I had completed a round of Provera about a week or so ago. This was prescribed it to kick start my cycle. However, nothing is happening. Felicia, my midwife has explained that my lining is too thin and there is no sign of it building. In other words it's not making a nest. So I have an empty nest syndrome of sorts? yes, I'm aware of my badly placed humor (hey, it's how I deal).

The next day I told a coworker about my news.  She kept asking me about my kids so I explained my situation. The she said and I quote "don't feel bad that you can't have children. I wish I would have thought more about having them. They grow up and rebel. And I feel sorry for all the babies in this world it's horrible! Just get a pet. They'll love you no matter what."
What??? Yeah, we'll get a puppy and then we won't want children anymore! Pfft! You got to be kidding me with this.

On top of this everyone keeps asking if I'm Pregnant.
I like my job I have no problem with being a cashier. I take pride in my work. I'm a friendly person. I genuine and care for people. Sure, it's often crazy there, the hours are horrible and you find out your schedule last minute. Yes, the encounters can be nerve racking but I keep it all in perspective and I'm overall very positive about it. I smile and see who smiles back. I do my best to be through,quick, and efficient. And I'm told I'm good at it. However, when you work at the G-store you see a lot of families,children,babies,belly's and baby food etc... *sigh* esp. when the people have no idea just how blessed they are.
 
  Feeling Bluer then Blue and craving Ice Cream like mad or maybe just a really good thick strawberry or chocolate shake (yeah, I know it's still ice cream. I'm not sure if my craving is cause it's part of my diet or the sadness or what) Any recommendations for one? Denny's, Hardee's,Chik fil A? Please let me know if you do since I seriously, want a tasty one.

 OK, well that wraps up my pitiful pearl post. Sorry!
                                                       

                                                          Wishes from Wonderland

       ~ Alice

Monday's Mood

Monday's Mood Color is Orange

  Maybe it's in anticipation of fall but right now I'm on a brown and orange kick. I'm feeling restless but I'm sticking with the orange.

Cute Ad

Happy dance!

                                           Wishes from Wonderland
                                               ~ Alice

Smiling Sunday: Happy Grandparents Day!

Happy Grandparents Day!

Since today is National Grandparents Day and Smiling Sunday.

I thouht perhaps I should share something. Just the other day I got into their car and it smelled just like it did when I was little. It's the same as the their house has. It's a happy scent. I was transported back through time and had thoughts of Holidays, Pancake Breakfast, Whiffle Ball games, Porch sits with them, this, put a smile upon my face. I leaned over and touched the afghan next to me. Yup, still felt the same. As I left the car I kissed my grandmothers cheek and told her thanks and that I loved them (as I always do). It was soft as always. Then, something came over me. I found my self blurting out "See ya later alligator!" This was something that made my grandfather chuckle and smile. For, he always use to shout this to me and of course, I'd reply "After while crocodile!"  His humor makes me laugh. Sure, it's corny as heck. Sure, it's predictable. But, maybe that's why I love it? It's purely him and hark ens back to a simpler time. Lately, my father has picked it up. I roll my eyes as he tells the waitress seating us that we need a table for 15 but inside I secretly kind of like it.

It's Sunday and that's what makes me smile.
Take a moment to share something about your grandparents today.



Wishes from Wonderland
~Alice

Family Fun Friday : Back to school made totally cool!

It's Family Fun Friday! 

source 

I love it when parents do that little something extra to brighten a child's day. Notes in your lunch, sandwiches shaped like piggies, a little bunny waiting on your bed Easter morning.  

My parents where always doing these little things and I hold dear to them. So when I spotted this German tradition I knew I had to pass it on.

source

Meet the Schultuete aka school cone. In Eastern Germany it is sometimes know as Zuckertüte translating to "sugar bag".  Originating from a German tradition that dates back to the 1800's. The children are given a rather large cone to mark their first day of school. The cone itself is generally comprised of decorated cardboard and then filled with sweets,charms, pens,pencils,stickers.

 I think it would be fun to decorate and fill these cones up with some really neat kid items. Such as crayons,colored pencils, pencil box, crayons, a book or coloring book, sparkle pens, stickers, shaped erasers,colorful candies and maybe some hair accessories, a matchbox car or two, those crazy bandz things oh and some animal crackers or other small cookies.  Target generally has a good selection of fun items in their dollar aisle. And I know I saw some really nice pens in the back to school section.

If you don't want to make a cone. A basket or box would be just as charming. Personally, I think it would be neat to have a lunch tin filled with these goodies. Just have fun use your creativity and put in whatever you think your child would like.  It's the thought that counts and your child is sure to get a real kick out of it!

Do you have any back to school traditions in your family? Please share them

 

Wishes from Wonderland

                             ~ Alice                                                     

Welcome to my Wonderland

You're stepping through the looking glass and into the mind of a vintage girl.

             First let me introduce myself. I’m kitschy, kooky and a self proclaimed dorkette.

Family is my number one priority. I love sugary sweet details and just about everything retro. If it’s Japanese well then I'm partial to it. After all, I was born and practically raised there.

 Thinking outside the box comes naturally to me. In fact, it’s how I see the world hence the looking glass metaphor. I tend to make up words and phrases (known as shele-speak) and also use throw back terms from the past. I’ve been called vintage, unusual and yes, even weird. But, I’ve grown quite proud of that fact that I color outside of the lines.

Here you will find musings,

loves, ideas, finds, and my family.

So come with me and enjoy as I get lost in all that is wonderful.

Wishes from Wonderland

~ Alice