The Christmas Trip to Richmond

Last Friday I traveled from Union Station in Washington, DC to Richmond, VA to visit with family.  We decided we would have a pre-Christmas celebration this year by a few days, leaving all of us time to spend with other family and friends on Tuesday.  This turned out to be a wonderful idea.

I headed to Union Station around noon on Friday.  When I arrived and went to the board to check on my train, I found that it was delayed.

I was on the 95 N.E. Regional to VA Beach that was scheduled to leave at 2:30PM.  It turned out that the train was only 10 minutes late, so our schedules were not interrupted.  I have found that Amtrak runs a tight ship.  There are few delays.

Given that I arrived at the station early, I had some time to walk around.  Union Station in Washington is a beautiful space.  The station was redone a few years ago and it really is beautiful.

The stairs leading to the "Upstairs Bar" in the center of the atrium when you first enter the building.  The decorations were simple and elegant.  I would not have changed a thing.

A couple more shots from the open atrium area.  The building is very elegant.  Tasteful and elegant.  As you can see above, the atrium is awash in natural light.  It is very soothing.  It has a calming effect on the soul.  I many times need a calming effect on my soul, especially when traveling.  I'll either take an environment like this or a valium, but I prefer being in this beautiful space.

Here you see another eatery of some description on the upper level and shops on the lower level.  There are lots and lots of shops.  I went into a Bath & Body Works, but it was too crowded for me to stay for very long.  There is a wonderful Swarovski shop with the most exquisite pieces in the windows.  I did not buy anything from them, but I was tempted.

Finally, it was time to make my way to my gate in the waiting area.  It was very crowded.  Just before they started to call passengers for our train, people started crowding around the gate which is infuriating.  I was in the business class car.  They called for handicapped travelers and then business class travelers to board first.  We all had a difficult time getting to the gate because of the rude people who would not move out of the way.  Another sign of the times in which we live.  The train was crowded and hot, but in a mere two and half hours I was in Richmond.  So I put all of that unpleasantness behind me and had a wonderful visit with my family.

The Christmas Trip to Richmond

Last Friday I traveled from Union Station in Washington, DC to Richmond, VA to visit with family.  We decided we would have a pre-Christmas celebration this year by a few days, leaving all of us time to spend with other family and friends on Tuesday.  This turned out to be a wonderful idea.

I headed to Union Station around noon on Friday.  When I arrived and went to the board to check on my train, I found that it was delayed.

I was on the 95 N.E. Regional to VA Beach that was scheduled to leave at 2:30PM.  It turned out that the train was only 10 minutes late, so our schedules were not interrupted.  I have found that Amtrak runs a tight ship.  There are few delays.

Given that I arrived at the station early, I had some time to walk around.  Union Station in Washington is a beautiful space.  The station was redone a few years ago and it really is beautiful.

The stairs leading to the "Upstairs Bar" in the center of the atrium when you first enter the building.  The decorations were simple and elegant.  I would not have changed a thing.

A couple more shots from the open atrium area.  The building is very elegant.  Tasteful and elegant.  As you can see above, the atrium is awash in natural light.  It is very soothing.  It has a calming effect on the soul.  I many times need a calming effect on my soul, especially when traveling.  I'll either take an environment like this or a valium, but I prefer being in this beautiful space.

Here you see another eatery of some description on the upper level and shops on the lower level.  There are lots and lots of shops.  I went into a Bath & Body Works, but it was too crowded for me to stay for very long.  There is a wonderful Swarovski shop with the most exquisite pieces in the windows.  I did not buy anything from them, but I was tempted.

Finally, it was time to make my way to my gate in the waiting area.  It was very crowded.  Just before they started to call passengers for our train, people started crowding around the gate which is infuriating.  I was in the business class car.  They called for handicapped travelers and then business class travelers to board first.  We all had a difficult time getting to the gate because of the rude people who would not move out of the way.  Another sign of the times in which we live.  The train was crowded and hot, but in a mere two and half hours I was in Richmond.  So I put all of that unpleasantness behind me and had a wonderful visit with my family.

A Satchel Full of Gift Bags

I'm off to deliver the gift bags.  I cannot wait to see my little niece, Sarah Paige and nephew, Nathan.  And my sister and her husband and my mother and my 93 year old grandmother.  (She is a southern lady and probably would not approve of me giving out her age on this blog, but we'll just keep it between us.)

You will see that someone is getting "Peas" for Christmas this year.  After my experience with them earlier this week, I had to add them to my mothers bag.  The ones you see here are designed for use on the knee.  I hope this will help bring some comfort to her aching knees.  I am on the Northeast Regional at 2:30 PM.  Lots to do before then, so have a wonderful Friday everyone.  Be safe.

A Satchel Full of Gift Bags

I'm off to deliver the gift bags.  I cannot wait to see my little niece, Sarah Paige and nephew, Nathan.  And my sister and her husband and my mother and my 93 year old grandmother.  (She is a southern lady and probably would not approve of me giving out her age on this blog, but we'll just keep it between us.)

You will see that someone is getting "Peas" for Christmas this year.  After my experience with them earlier this week, I had to add them to my mothers bag.  The ones you see here are designed for use on the knee.  I hope this will help bring some comfort to her aching knees.  I am on the Northeast Regional at 2:30 PM.  Lots to do before then, so have a wonderful Friday everyone.  Be safe.

My Santa; What Big Feet You Have!

We wish you a Merry Christmas!

A little more Christmas decoration around Crest Avenue.  Lots going on the next few days.  A trip to Richmond, VA to see family; a little more shopping to do; cocktails with a few close friends and finally that most magical of days - Christmas!!  Check back over the coming days for updates on what we've got going on and to find out about our upcoming trip in January.  

My Santa; What Big Feet You Have!

We wish you a Merry Christmas!

A little more Christmas decoration around Crest Avenue.  Lots going on the next few days.  A trip to Richmond, VA to see family; a little more shopping to do; cocktails with a few close friends and finally that most magical of days - Christmas!!  Check back over the coming days for updates on what we've got going on and to find out about our upcoming trip in January.  

North Shore Animal League

Today I want to talk about an organization that is very dear to me, that being the North Shore Animal League.  I first became aware of their existence around 1974 or 1975.  I was a teenager at that time.  I remember receiving a mailer from them in which they described their mission and asking for donations.  How I ended up on their list at the age of 15 or 16, I do not know.  But I knew, even then, that I wanted to help in some way to save or care for these poor animals that were in need.

I had a job after school at my uncle's furniture store and I would take part of my earnings from that job and periodicially send it to the North Shore Animal League.  As hard as it is for me to believe, that all began some 38 years ago.  I have continued my contributions to them all these many years since.

I believe them to be one of, if not the most effective of all the animal welfare groups at providing humane care for the animals in their charge.  Here is a blurb taken directly from their website:

North Shore Animal League America - Our Beginnings

A Modest Start for a No-Kill Shelter
In 1944, a small group of animal lovers began the North Shore Animal League, intent on finding homes for abandoned pets that would otherwise be destroyed. Starting with just a garage and a few fenced dog runs, the shelter stayed true to its mission as it grew, despite an ever-increasing number of animals in need and funds that frequently ran low in times of crisis.


You can read more about them at www.animalleague.com.


We are fast reaching the deadline to make tax deductible contributions for tax year 2012.  I made a sizeable donation to the North Shore Animal League yesterday.  If you could spare even $5 it would be welcome.  Such a good feeling you get when you know that you have made a difference in the life of an animal who is in need.

North Shore Animal League

Today I want to talk about an organization that is very dear to me, that being the North Shore Animal League.  I first became aware of their existence around 1974 or 1975.  I was a teenager at that time.  I remember receiving a mailer from them in which they described their mission and asking for donations.  How I ended up on their list at the age of 15 or 16, I do not know.  But I knew, even then, that I wanted to help in some way to save or care for these poor animals that were in need.

I had a job after school at my uncle's furniture store and I would take part of my earnings from that job and periodicially send it to the North Shore Animal League.  As hard as it is for me to believe, that all began some 38 years ago.  I have continued my contributions to them all these many years since.

I believe them to be one of, if not the most effective of all the animal welfare groups at providing humane care for the animals in their charge.  Here is a blurb taken directly from their website:

North Shore Animal League America - Our Beginnings

A Modest Start for a No-Kill Shelter
In 1944, a small group of animal lovers began the North Shore Animal League, intent on finding homes for abandoned pets that would otherwise be destroyed. Starting with just a garage and a few fenced dog runs, the shelter stayed true to its mission as it grew, despite an ever-increasing number of animals in need and funds that frequently ran low in times of crisis.


You can read more about them at www.animalleague.com.


We are fast reaching the deadline to make tax deductible contributions for tax year 2012.  I made a sizeable donation to the North Shore Animal League yesterday.  If you could spare even $5 it would be welcome.  Such a good feeling you get when you know that you have made a difference in the life of an animal who is in need.

Christmas Gift Bag

On my short journey on the train this morning from McPherson Square to Foggy Bottom, I saw this cute Christmas gift bag.

The lady carrying the bag was asleep, so I didn't disturb her.  Someone is getting something special today!

Christmas Gift Bag

On my short journey on the train this morning from McPherson Square to Foggy Bottom, I saw this cute Christmas gift bag.

The lady carrying the bag was asleep, so I didn't disturb her.  Someone is getting something special today!

More Wreaths and Other Christmas Decoration

I got a better shot of the wreath on the china closet.

You can see detail in the wreath clearer in this picture than the one I posted yesterday.  It really is a pretty wreath.

Here is a wider view of the china cabinet so that you can get a better feel for the size of the wreath.

 r

When it comes to decorating for the holidays, I leave no room untouched.  A little decoration even in the bathroom is called for.

This wreath hangs on the upright cabinet that holds guest towels and other essentials in the main bathroom.  It is a similar version of the one above with slight changes.  It is a beautiful winter white.  Winter white is an off-white unlike the bright whites one would wear or decorate with in the summer.  If you held up something in winter white next to say, a pair of summer white shorts, you would immediately see the difference.  This adds just the right touch to the room.

Here is a picture of the kissing ball I hung at the front door this year.  This is an artificial arrangement.  It was so lifelike that I couldn't tell at first whether it was real or artificial.  Manufacturing has improved so much over the years that I actually decided that this would do just perfectly.  In years past I would never have thought of hanging an artificial kissing ball, but I guess I am changing with the times.

Finally, here is a shot of a Christmas themed wall hanging that I used for the first time just last year.

I took down the artwork that hangs on this wall in the hallway and replaced it with this for the season.  It is burlap stretched over a frame and then painted with a holiday theme.  Very eclectic.  I loved it and it fits the space perfectly.

So there are a few more ideas for Christmas decorating.  We have learned today the difference between winter white and summer white; that it is OK to put a wreath in the bathroom; that artificial kissing balls are acceptable to use; and that we can replace artwork on the walls during the Christmas season.  Come back tomorrow for some more useful ideas.

More Wreaths and Other Christmas Decoration

I got a better shot of the wreath on the china closet.

You can see detail in the wreath clearer in this picture than the one I posted yesterday.  It really is a pretty wreath.

Here is a wider view of the china cabinet so that you can get a better feel for the size of the wreath.

 r

When it comes to decorating for the holidays, I leave no room untouched.  A little decoration even in the bathroom is called for.

This wreath hangs on the upright cabinet that holds guest towels and other essentials in the main bathroom.  It is a similar version of the one above with slight changes.  It is a beautiful winter white.  Winter white is an off-white unlike the bright whites one would wear or decorate with in the summer.  If you held up something in winter white next to say, a pair of summer white shorts, you would immediately see the difference.  This adds just the right touch to the room.

Here is a picture of the kissing ball I hung at the front door this year.  This is an artificial arrangement.  It was so lifelike that I couldn't tell at first whether it was real or artificial.  Manufacturing has improved so much over the years that I actually decided that this would do just perfectly.  In years past I would never have thought of hanging an artificial kissing ball, but I guess I am changing with the times.

Finally, here is a shot of a Christmas themed wall hanging that I used for the first time just last year.

I took down the artwork that hangs on this wall in the hallway and replaced it with this for the season.  It is burlap stretched over a frame and then painted with a holiday theme.  Very eclectic.  I loved it and it fits the space perfectly.

So there are a few more ideas for Christmas decorating.  We have learned today the difference between winter white and summer white; that it is OK to put a wreath in the bathroom; that artificial kissing balls are acceptable to use; and that we can replace artwork on the walls during the Christmas season.  Come back tomorrow for some more useful ideas.

A Quick Update on the Peas Heating Pad

We talked about my aching shoulder and the new Peas heating pad yesterday.

I am happy to report that this device works.  I found that microwaving it for 40 seconds provided quite enough heat.  It was actually too warm to place directly on my skin after 40 second, so I laid it over my t-shirt.  The heat is very soothing and it lasts a good long time.  I used it twice last night.  Once in the early evening and again just before bed.  I am going back to CVS and purchase the one for use on knees.  I love this product.

A Quick Update on the Peas Heating Pad

We talked about my aching shoulder and the new Peas heating pad yesterday.

I am happy to report that this device works.  I found that microwaving it for 40 seconds provided quite enough heat.  It was actually too warm to place directly on my skin after 40 second, so I laid it over my t-shirt.  The heat is very soothing and it lasts a good long time.  I used it twice last night.  Once in the early evening and again just before bed.  I am going back to CVS and purchase the one for use on knees.  I love this product.

Adorn Your Home with Wreaths

During the season, I love to place wreaths of various descriptions all around the house.  There are so many different styles and colors from which to choose.  This wreath is from Crate & Barrel.

It is champagne in color.  The little star shaped points remind me of cloves.  They are not fragrant.  Only for decoration.  I placed this on the door pulls on the china closet in the dining room.  So simple, yet so elegant.  And an easy way to give the room some holiday flair.

Tomorrow we will look at some more wreaths and artwork you can use to decorate your home for Christmas.

Adorn Your Home with Wreaths

During the season, I love to place wreaths of various descriptions all around the house.  There are so many different styles and colors from which to choose.  This wreath is from Crate & Barrel.

It is champagne in color.  The little star shaped points remind me of cloves.  They are not fragrant.  Only for decoration.  I placed this on the door pulls on the china closet in the dining room.  So simple, yet so elegant.  And an easy way to give the room some holiday flair.

Tomorrow we will look at some more wreaths and artwork you can use to decorate your home for Christmas.

Oh My Aching Shoulder!

Yes, I have an aching shoulder.  I don't know if I overdid it cleaning out the basement this weekend or if it is age related or a combination of the two, but my left shoulder is killing me.  I try not to let aches and pains get me down.  I attempt to push on.  Persevere.  That's what my generation was taught.  Don't get mired down in it.  Pull yourself up and keep going.  I am up and going, but I'm not being as productive as I would like today.  So, I am going to try something new for the pain.

Peas!  That's right, Peas.  I found this today at CVS.  I got the one designed for neck and shoulder, but there are many different to choose from.  There are ones designed for the knee.  And ones designed for children.  The box says it can be used hot or cold (I will be using it hot).  It also states that it is "form fitting and flexible" and "resuable and non-toxic."  I suppose I am happy to know that it is non-toxic.  However, at this point, that is a little lower on my scale of things to worry about.  I'm kind of consumed with pain!!  In brief, it says to freeze or microwave pack to desired temperature.  Upon further review it says to microwave it for 40 seconds and if that is not hot enough to continue microwaving at 20 second intervals not to exceed 80 seconds total.  I cannot wait to give this a try.

We will get back to Christmas decorating tomorrow.

Oh My Aching Shoulder!

Yes, I have an aching shoulder.  I don't know if I overdid it cleaning out the basement this weekend or if it is age related or a combination of the two, but my left shoulder is killing me.  I try not to let aches and pains get me down.  I attempt to push on.  Persevere.  That's what my generation was taught.  Don't get mired down in it.  Pull yourself up and keep going.  I am up and going, but I'm not being as productive as I would like today.  So, I am going to try something new for the pain.

Peas!  That's right, Peas.  I found this today at CVS.  I got the one designed for neck and shoulder, but there are many different to choose from.  There are ones designed for the knee.  And ones designed for children.  The box says it can be used hot or cold (I will be using it hot).  It also states that it is "form fitting and flexible" and "resuable and non-toxic."  I suppose I am happy to know that it is non-toxic.  However, at this point, that is a little lower on my scale of things to worry about.  I'm kind of consumed with pain!!  In brief, it says to freeze or microwave pack to desired temperature.  Upon further review it says to microwave it for 40 seconds and if that is not hot enough to continue microwaving at 20 second intervals not to exceed 80 seconds total.  I cannot wait to give this a try.

We will get back to Christmas decorating tomorrow.

My Christmas Card Design

This year, I designed and printed all of my Christmas cards.  I kept the design simple and elegant.  You can never go wrong with simple and elegant.  The idea for the theme of the cards came to me one day out of the blue.  I went with the original thought I had about the design.

The paper and the envelopes for the cards came from Paper Source,  of course.  The envelopes were 5-3/4" x 5-3/4" and the heavy cardstock was 5-1/2" x 5-1/2".  I bought the vellum in 8-1/2" x 11" sheets and then printed my card design directly on the vellum.  I made the design on the vellum a little smaller than the cardstock it was adhered to to allow a 1/4" border all the way around.  I then cut out and adhered the vellum design to the 5-1/2" x 5-1/2" cardstock with Scotch brand double-sided tape.  One piece of double-sided tape as close to the width of the vellum as possible without extending over either side of the vellum at the top.  If the tape extends over the sides, you can trim it was a pair of scissors or lay the vellum on a cutting board and use a razor blade and a straightedge to trim off the excess.  If you decide to try this design, go with the Scotch brand double-sided tape.  That way you can be sure that it will hold the vellum in place.  Another brand may not give you the same result.

The vellum sheets have a leaf design.  You could use vellum with no design.  Or you could choose another design.  It is completely up to you.  I thought this was a very nice look.  The vellum is a champagne color.  It really stands out on the stark white cardstock.

I used my new Christmas themed return address stamp from www.Expressionery.com to add the return address in the upper left corner of each envelope.

I thought it was wonderful how the tree was placed at just the right spot on the vellum so that it was centered and right at the perfect location when placed in the envelope.  It is perfectly perched on top of the bottom flap of the envelope.  The recipient will be intrigued when they open it.  And once opened they will find a very simple and heartfelt "Merry Christmas!"  Of course your cards might say "Happy Hannukah" or "Happy Kwanzaa."  Whatever your celebration, this design would work.

This was a fun project.  I enjoyed putting these cards together.  One word of warning - if you decide to use the 5-3/4" x 5-3/4" envelopes, you will need to affix additional postage.  Log onto www.usps.com to find out more about that or visit your local post office.

My Christmas Card Design

This year, I designed and printed all of my Christmas cards.  I kept the design simple and elegant.  You can never go wrong with simple and elegant.  The idea for the theme of the cards came to me one day out of the blue.  I went with the original thought I had about the design.

The paper and the envelopes for the cards came from Paper Source,  of course.  The envelopes were 5-3/4" x 5-3/4" and the heavy cardstock was 5-1/2" x 5-1/2".  I bought the vellum in 8-1/2" x 11" sheets and then printed my card design directly on the vellum.  I made the design on the vellum a little smaller than the cardstock it was adhered to to allow a 1/4" border all the way around.  I then cut out and adhered the vellum design to the 5-1/2" x 5-1/2" cardstock with Scotch brand double-sided tape.  One piece of double-sided tape as close to the width of the vellum as possible without extending over either side of the vellum at the top.  If the tape extends over the sides, you can trim it was a pair of scissors or lay the vellum on a cutting board and use a razor blade and a straightedge to trim off the excess.  If you decide to try this design, go with the Scotch brand double-sided tape.  That way you can be sure that it will hold the vellum in place.  Another brand may not give you the same result.

The vellum sheets have a leaf design.  You could use vellum with no design.  Or you could choose another design.  It is completely up to you.  I thought this was a very nice look.  The vellum is a champagne color.  It really stands out on the stark white cardstock.

I used my new Christmas themed return address stamp from www.Expressionery.com to add the return address in the upper left corner of each envelope.

I thought it was wonderful how the tree was placed at just the right spot on the vellum so that it was centered and right at the perfect location when placed in the envelope.  It is perfectly perched on top of the bottom flap of the envelope.  The recipient will be intrigued when they open it.  And once opened they will find a very simple and heartfelt "Merry Christmas!"  Of course your cards might say "Happy Hannukah" or "Happy Kwanzaa."  Whatever your celebration, this design would work.

This was a fun project.  I enjoyed putting these cards together.  One word of warning - if you decide to use the 5-3/4" x 5-3/4" envelopes, you will need to affix additional postage.  Log onto www.usps.com to find out more about that or visit your local post office.

A Quick Visit with Ina Garten

Yesterday was a busy day.  Busier than usual.  I did not have time to post anything, so that tells you just how busy it was.  I finally got to meet Ina Garten yesterday.  You remember she was scheduled to make an appearance at Williams Sonoma at the Annapolis Mall in early November.  Unfortunately, hurricane Sandy made her appearance instead, so Ms. Garten rescheduled her book signing to yesterday.  The signing was scheduled for 12:00 to 2:00 PM.  I pre-ordered the book so when I arrived at the mall, I took my place in line along with all the others there.  Shortly afterward, an employee from Williams Sonoma appeared with a cart of receipts and books.  The next thing I knew, I was in possession of "Foolproof: Recipes You Can Trust."

It really is a beautiful book.  The size of the book is good.  Easy to handle.  The recipes and photography are wonderful.  Ina was delightful.  I made my way to her around 1:45 PM and she was still smiling and pleased to see us all.  I told her that I "love, love, love the show" and "I never miss it on the weekends."  She seemed happy to hear that and wished me Happy Holidays, which I returned.

Here is a picture of Ina as she signed my book and handed it back to me.

And a picture of my signed book.

It was a fun event.  Williams Sonoma took good care of us, bringing around trays of delicious baked goods.  After I left this event, there were many stops to make on the way home to pick up some additional Christmas decor items.  We will talk more about that later this week.

A Quick Visit with Ina Garten

Yesterday was a busy day.  Busier than usual.  I did not have time to post anything, so that tells you just how busy it was.  I finally got to meet Ina Garten yesterday.  You remember she was scheduled to make an appearance at Williams Sonoma at the Annapolis Mall in early November.  Unfortunately, hurricane Sandy made her appearance instead, so Ms. Garten rescheduled her book signing to yesterday.  The signing was scheduled for 12:00 to 2:00 PM.  I pre-ordered the book so when I arrived at the mall, I took my place in line along with all the others there.  Shortly afterward, an employee from Williams Sonoma appeared with a cart of receipts and books.  The next thing I knew, I was in possession of "Foolproof: Recipes You Can Trust."

It really is a beautiful book.  The size of the book is good.  Easy to handle.  The recipes and photography are wonderful.  Ina was delightful.  I made my way to her around 1:45 PM and she was still smiling and pleased to see us all.  I told her that I "love, love, love the show" and "I never miss it on the weekends."  She seemed happy to hear that and wished me Happy Holidays, which I returned.

Here is a picture of Ina as she signed my book and handed it back to me.

And a picture of my signed book.

It was a fun event.  Williams Sonoma took good care of us, bringing around trays of delicious baked goods.  After I left this event, there were many stops to make on the way home to pick up some additional Christmas decor items.  We will talk more about that later this week.

Yarn People

I thought, since we had such a "utilitarian" post earlier today about installing the timer for the outdoor lights,  we would return to something a little more fun.  So I am introducing you to the "yarn people."

Are these the cutest things you have ever seen?  Pictured here in the Peace Lily forest, this whimsical pair look ready for the cold winter weather.  Little things like this placed on a table or shelf anywhere around the house are always a welcome sight.

Yarn People

I thought, since we had such a "utilitarian" post earlier today about installing the timer for the outdoor lights,  we would return to something a little more fun.  So I am introducing you to the "yarn people."

Are these the cutest things you have ever seen?  Pictured here in the Peace Lily forest, this whimsical pair look ready for the cold winter weather.  Little things like this placed on a table or shelf anywhere around the house are always a welcome sight.