Art of Brick: Building a Foundation of Fun!

By

My daughter and I love going to the Franklin Institute, not just because our last name is the same, but we love their special exhibits. Today was the beginning of the Art of Brick with fabulous and intricate displays made of legos. I was in awe. Quinn and her bestie loved the Lego portraits, and I couldn’t get enough of the three dimensional displays.

It brought back childhood memories for me as I spelled my name and made a creation in the building section. Also, seeing Quinn and her best friend built a tower made me think about the foundation of our relationship. I’m grateful for outings that are not only fun but meaningful while giving us both lasting memories.

All the best,

Tanya

Cue the Violins: My Daughter’s Passion is Music to My Ears

By

Usually I like to relax and have a low key evening the night before the first day of teaching a new semester, but my daughter’s spring concert started at 7pm with a 6:15pm call time, and I wouldn’t miss it for the world.

Can Can Performance

Quinn, along with several fifth and sixth graders came ready to play some memorable music on their violins, violas and cellos. Though they’re all at different phases in the learning process, the audience cheered for them all. I, of course, cheered proudly as Quinn sat at first chair in her section playing Can-Can, Funny Fiddlin’ and a few other songs.

Next up is her band concert next week, and I can’t wait!

All the best,

Tanya

On the Actual Day of Christmas, My Daughter Gave to Me…Nostalgia and Happiness

By

On the Actual Day of Christmas, My Daughter Gave to Me…Nostalgia and Happiness

A Christmas gift I look forward each and every year is seeing my daughter’s smile, hearing her along with oohs and aahs and feeling her appreciation as she opens her Christmas gifts.

But something that made this year different was that she used her hard earned money to get me a thoughtful and heartfelt gift: a sterling silver mom necklace that projects, “I love you” in 100 languages. It came in a lovely box with little roses and a teddy bear that lights up. Though I encouraged her to hold onto her money, it makes me feel so good that was willing to spend her entire savings on me.

Another bonus was that many of the gifts she wanted this year were quite nostalgic as they brought back wonderful memories of my childhood playing games, doing crafts and making treats.

All the best,

Tanya

On the Eleventh Day of Christmas 2023: The Magic of Twinning

By

Both my daughter and I love surprises. I was pleasantly surprised that she agreed to “twin” today in our Charlie Brown Christmas sweatshirts. While she was surprised to an evening of magic and illusions with Christmas twists, lights and music.

I’m so grateful for family time and outings, especially around this time of year. I can’t help but smile while in the festive environment, with delectable treats and extra time together.

All the best,

Tanya

On the Tenth Day of Christmas 2023: The Perfect Balance of Nice & Naughty

By

Though my ten year old is technically the only child, it’s so nice knowing that she and her “little brother” our toy poodle have each other, especially around this time of the year.

Just like “human” siblings, they’re sometimes naughty together, getting into mischief or even fussing with each other about who gets to sit next to me on the sofa. But more times than not, they’re so sweet and have a nice time enjoying each other’s company.

I’m so grateful for them both as their presence alone are both special gifts in my life.

All the best,

Tanya