New York City

Took the girls to New York last weekend. We had a very New Yorkie time! That means lots of walking, a few cab rides, a few shows, really great food and some shopping. We were in Times Square, Herald Square, Union Square, Bryant Park, Central Park, Soho, Noho, the Flower District, East Side and West Side, Broadway, Park Ave, Madison Ave - Brooks Brothers. And we were just there for a weekend! Diane made the trip possible and there is no better friend to tour the city with. Her niece Sarah added to the festivities. We had brunch at Bar Americain - one of Iron Chef Bobby Flay's places. The food was superb, right down to the crimson chai tea. We saw the Blue Man Group. Very cool experience.

I have to admit, I would never want to live in New York. My ears and nose would complain bitterly. And I think they should stop building places for more people to move onto the island. But I found myself learning to navigate the city better than ever before and it was great to experience it with my daughters. Thank you, Thank you Diane!

Nursing School Graduation

I have been teaching nursing for over 10 years now. I have attended every spring graduation ceremony and this year was no exception. But this is the first year I did not attend as a faculty member. I ran from the Mocha Rose open house over to Oakland to catch the last 10 minutes of the ceremony. The best part is when I get to hug all of my former students and hear what they are going to do next. And to meet their families. They often introduce me with great joy and pride. It is an honor to be a contribution to these young women and men. It is an honor to participate in their lives this way. So best of luck Jatolloa, Jesse, Andrew, Chantal, Hillary, Dana, Mary, Colleen, Johnna. There were a few from your class that I did not see. I missed you. Corey - SO great to see you. Congratulations to you all.

Mocha Rose

I just finished my first week of work at Mocha Rose. They moved into their new studio about a month ago and this week was spent preparing the space for two open house gatherings. We worked hard this week and I went home tired and with sore feet every day. It was really fun to see April create loads of different floral designs to decorate the show room and workroom for the parties. She is a very talented designer. I am extremely happy to be working for and with April and Jill. April's current business is a floral and event design. She doesn't have a store front flower shop. If you have a need for flowers for your event, you should get in touch with April and Mocha Rose. Really! Her work is just glorious and what she provides for clients goes way beyond flowers. Her attention to detail and customer service is wonderful. So, right now, my feet hurt, my body is tired and there is a smile on my face.