November 1974, Happy Birthday Erin

Long before the days of ultrasounds, trying to discover the gender of a baby was left up to the speed of the baby's heartbeat. The doctor had both of our girls figured as boys. Surprise in both cases. These were the days when Daddy had to wait outside in the "waiting room", with everyone else. So Richard James, named after both of our fathers, had really been Erin Elizabeth all along!

I had been 3 weeks overdue, and had tried all sorts of things to get her here. In a nutshell, I was miserable and so big I could hardly walk. Christmas was coming, and I hadn't done any shopping. I had dreams of an eternal pregnancy!

Erin and I in December 1974, visiting Grandma and Grandpa.

(My one and only time to have frosted hair)

Erin and Keith in October 1997,

one of their engagement photos.

She is one of the few people I have met

that looks good either as a blond or a brunette.

2009 on our recent trip to St. Louis.

Erin, myself, and Alyson, last Christmas.

Just a little trip down memory lane

 to wish my beautiful and loving daughter a

Happy, Happy Birthday, "Beanie"!

Love Mom

A "French-Kissed" Invitation

We have all met or know of people in life who just simply stand out in a crowd. They are the ones with quiet elegance. They exude class and graciousness. They have an innate attitude of charm and mystery. I received an honor and outstretched hand from one such lovely friend this week, Jermaine of French-Kissed.

The first time I set eyes on her blog, I fell in love. I spent an hour there retracing her posts, and lingering over all her breathtaking photos. She is the kind of person that inspires me to come up a little higher, to enjoy my life, and to dream. She will take you with her to far-away places, and then beckon you to join her at her table.

Jermaine has been setting a variety of lovely tablescapes for Thanksgiving, using her wonderful collection of dishes and silver. She decorates with "nature", so feathers, roses, pumpkins and assorted elements find their way to dress her individual place settings. Her table is a reflection of who she is; "distinctively individual"!

I was honored to have my name at her table this week.
What a blessing to be given this invitation.


Please drop by her French-Kissed home and life
and say "Hello".
You will never want to leave!


Thank you, dear Jermaine,
Debra