smart cookies

JMcLaughlin logo "Smart Cookie" party favor

On a balmy evening in New York City, I had the wonderful opportunity to meet Mika at a recent book launch "All Things at Once." Lucky me to have her sign one for me and one for my dear friend. The Party was hosted by the marvelous McLaughlin's in the courtyard garden of their New York Home which marketing maven, Alison Mazzola Communications partnered to launch.

I was thrilled when the invitation arrived with my illustration in letter-press. You all know how I adore letterpress and lovely white stock. I just picked up the original artwork which I had matted and is ready to send to Mrs.McLaughlin. I finished the book and there were so many poignant moments that I could relate to as we juggle life, all things coming at us at once.

After the party, my husband and I had the chance to dine, just the two of us at a quaint New York spot. On such a warm evening, the cold poached salmon and cucumber salad tasted lovely while we chatted and watched the people walking by. (This was in May, before my "raw" pledge!)

What a smart cookie favor, just the perfect treat to bring home for my children.

Take a bite out of life each day as "All things at once" occur while we strive to balance work and family.

Cherish today, cookies and all things at once!

corner to corner

Original pve design framed artwork, sold, pardon my "wonky" photography skills.

pve design - illustration

corner image from my design file of "things I love" - love the paper, that little sofa, and the corner table.

Sometimes we all need to grant our selves permission to leave our corner, and to go to another corner. Last night I ventured out to "Plates" located in Larchmont, NY -to meet Kristin van Ogtrop, Author of "Just Let Me Lie Down" as well as Editor of Real Simple Magazine. I am a bad judge of how many were in attendance, but let's say it was just the right amount given the spot which was charming as well as a place I would love to go back to for a night out.

When it came time for me to have my very own book signed, Kristin was so personable and funny. She asked where I had come from, and I truly did feel as if I had come from a distant corner, mind you a mere 9 miles away, just on the other side of Westchester County.

Meeting other women who Kristin coins as "half-insane" all out to give support, friendship and guidance as well as provide material for her humorous book. The insanity comes from balancing work, life, love, and Mothering. The women I met agreed that we were not half-insane but totally insane and loving our corners, not wanting to change a thing.

After the event, I was able to visit a dear friend, a Mom of twins just down the street, who has twin boys. The 5 year old boys had waited up for me (staying up a wee past the regimented bed-time hour) greeting me with bowls of popcorn and the family dog decided to come to sit beside me and suddenly I felt I was back in my corner.

So, tell me, is your corner half-insane or totally insane? Kristin, if you are reading, just for the record, I am about half-way into your book and laughing in my corner. I can relate to your corner of the world.

looks real simple

This evening I will be attending a special event to meet Kristin van Ogtrop, and to pick up a copy of her book, "Just let me lie down"- at Plates in Larchmont, NY. She is one of those women that sure makes things look real simple.
I have always admired Kristin as a loyal subscriber to Real Simple. I shall report back on wednesday with a re-cap of the event.