TLP is ready for the Big Day

I'm feeling calm today, which is totally unexpected since the wedding is this coming Friday and the party is on Saturday. Also on Wednesday is the rehearsal dinner. Tonight may be my favorite part of the week. I plan on sampling four different champagnes to serve on Friday night. It's a tough job, but I'm up for the challenge.

My dress for Friday night and my pants for Saturday night are supposed to be ready for a final fitting tomorrow. I ordered a bunch of jewelry to find the right necklace for Friday night. They all came at one time and Mr. B's eyes almost popped out of his head when he saw me opening all the silver boxes from Neiman Marcus. I revived him by explaining that I was returning all but the one necklace to wear on Friday.

Today I'm creating shorter pants for TLP. His little shirt is pressed. His pants are hemmed. Now if we can only get him to put on shoes. We tried a pair of shoes on him. He immediately leaned down and started chewing on the laces.

Taking a break from blogging

I'm overwhelmed by so many events in my life right now that I've decided to discontinue my postings, at least until I feel more "on top" of what is going. I have so many feelings, none of which are positive or worth sharing.

There are so many good things in my life that I should be able to put aside all the negative, but I just can't do it right now.

Today I'm creating a pity party for one.

A quiet evening

A view of our fun room at Lone Star Court in Austin.

We made a quick trip to Austin and stayed in such a cute hotel. Lone Star Court is part of The Domain, which has about 100 stores. I loved the room and the location of the hotel. I walked across the street from the hotel to the shopping center to get a mani (just had a pedi before I left Houston). The salon was so impressive. I got an organic mani that was very nice. The mango sea salt scrub was moistened with the juice of orange slices. My hands and arms were so soft. People were drinking martinis and margaritas. When I mentioned that I would like a blow out, someone went next door to see if the hair salon had time for me.

We attended a wedding of one of Mr. B's co-workers and her partner. The invitation said the attire was "semi-formal, Austin style." Apparently that description was interrupted in different ways by people because there was everything from jeans to long gowns at the outdoor wedding.

Today I'm creating time for brunch with a longtime friend of Mr. B's who moved to Austin about 10 years ago. We ate at The Driscoll Hotel in downtown Austin. It's someplace where I've always wanted to stay, but don't want to spend the money. The Valencia Group, a hotel management group that developed Lone Star Court in Austin, also has Hotel Sorella in Houston Citycenter. Maybe after the wedding Mr. B will take a "staycation" there.

Still working on the wedding!

TLP had a busy day. He went with Big Daddy to take Dr. Mc to work. Next he went with Big Daddy to see a great uncle. Next he went with me to run errands. We went to a meeting about the Saturday night celebration for Sweetness and Girafferty. We went to Mr. B's office to meet people and then to lunch. By the time TLP finished eating mac and cheese with his hands, he needed to be hosed down. (Note to self: Order mac sans cheese.)

By the time TLP and I got back to the house, he was asleep. I left him with Big Daddy while I went back to the store looking for wrapping paper and ribbon in just the right colors.

Today I'm creating more wedding and celebration plans. Sweetness and Girafferty got their marriage license today. Good idea since the wedding is only two weeks from today. In the past week I've seen so many photos of kids on the first day of school with the caption, "Where has the time gone." That's the questions I'm asking myself now.

It might rain in Houston today. I'm very excited about the possibility of rain because it might bring some cooler weather.

Big Daddy Nick and Dr. Mc made chicken tortilla soup last night for dinner. In addition to being tasty, it was a super nice surprise. We were hoping that TLP would sleep through our dinner, but that didn't happen. He has been cranky the last couple of days. I see three new teeth and his forehead has been a little warm. He also puts anything and everything he can find in his mouth. Getting those teeth is certainly a good reason to be cranky.

Today I'm creating plans for the wedding this weekend in Austin. The invitation states the attire is "semi-formal, Austin style." I have no idea what that means!

Countdown to the wedding

What I thought would be a fun and relaxing long weekend with Mr. B is quickly turning into a mess. We have a wedding in Austin on Saturday night. There is a shower for Sweetness on Sunday afternoon. And Monday night (Labor Day) we've been invited to a barbecue dinner. Everything sounds like so much fun, except the drive to and from Austin.

Last Saturday was also a busy day. I took Sweetness to buy "foundations" to wear under her wedding gown and then for a trial run on hair and makeup. While she was doing that, I went to Michael's to buy supplies to make her a pretend wedding bouquet. Then it was off to have her bridal portrait taken. After the portraits I took her home and then went home for a glass or two of wine. It's always the perfect way to end the day.

Today I'm creating a timeline and project sheet for an event in February. I'm also returning phone calls and preplanning for events that will take place in September.

At the Office

Sweetness and Girafferty at her birthday dinner.

Last night we celebrated Sweetness' 27th birthday with a family dinner at Backstreet Cafe in Houston. Even TLP was there, although he slept through part of the dinner. The food and conversation were great, but the temperature was a little warm. I forget that the upstairs is always warm. Good for the winter. Not good for the hot, hellish, humid summer. When will the summer end?

I tried a new place the last time I got a haircut and I'm going back there today. I had been going to the same place for years, but it just got too expensive. I think $120 plus tip (and often products) is just too much! I like the haircut I got last time for $46 so I'm giving it another try.

Today I'm creating stuff. Now that I'm working so much and creating all the time, I may change the name of my blog to Today I'm Celebrating. Yeah. Maybe.

Birthday wishes to Evan McCarley (a.k.a. Sweetness)

The balloons behind TLP spell his name, although he mainly
answers to Mister. The pool is filled with clear balls. He loved it!

Last week was TLP's birthday week. This week belongs to Sweetness. She is 27 years young today. I might as well say that the entire month of September belongs to her since she and Raff are getting married on September 18 and having a celebration on September 19. Lots of activities for them between September 1 and the wedding.

I developed gestational diabetes when I was pregnant with Sweetness so my OBGYN wanted to deliver her a week early. She was due on August 31, but I went to the hospital on August 24 around 10: 30 a.m., already in labor. She was born around 2:30 p.m., weighing 8 lbs., 9 oz. Thank goodness she didn't go full term or beyond!

Today I'm creating folders for all the upcoming Fall events. Right now there are 14 events from  September 1- December 16 on the calendar. I'm fairly sure there will be other political events that I work on between before the Nov. 3 local elections. It's going to be a busy autumn! Also, I'm pre-planning for two January events.

It's "volunteer-editor-of-neighborhood-newsletter" time

TLP's second 1st birthday party was a success, even though we ate at 8 p.m. and he was asleep. He tried to stay awake, but got so fussy that we finally put him down.

Big Daddy Nick woke TLP up so he could eat some mac and cheese and green beans. There's a reason for the old saying, "let sleeping babies sleep."

Today I'm creating edits and revisions to the monthly neighborhood newsletter. I also wrote a bio for Mr. B. Now it's time to resume my grandparent duties. I hear my little friend jabbering which means he is awake from his afternoon nap.

Happy 1st birthday to TLP

It's hard to believe that a year has passed since TLP was born three months prematurely. Watching him grow and develop the past year has been a joy and a delight. I can't help but smile when I see his beautiful little face. And there aren't words to describe his kisses.

He is pulling up on everything. A couple of weeks ago when he first started pulling up, he would crash to the floor, which resulted in more than one bump on his little noggin. He is steadier now, but as Big Daddy Nick says, he still needs to work on his dismount.

Today I'm creating a party for TLP. Last night the Zamoras had a little party for him at their house. Tonight we're having a party for him at our house. Sunday he is at McCarley house. What a lucky little man to have three birthday celebrations.

A quiet afternoon at home

Bath time.

I'm hoping that the tree trimming is finished. The workers were here this morning, but the noise of the buzz saw has stopped. Could it be that after four days they are finished?

I see lots of FB postings of recent high school grads heading off to college. Can I remember back that far to my freshman year at college? Barely.

Today I'm creating nothing. Last night we lost electricity for about three hours. After one hour in the hot dark house, Mr. B and I put Rose in the air-conditioned car and rode around. On the way to the car, I tripped and went down on my left knee. The really bad part was the jolt to my back.

Stop!

We have had tree trimmers in the yard since early this morning. Working is going on in our front and back yards, plus at our neighbor's yard. All the noise is making it very difficult for TLP to nap, which isn't a good thing. I just gave him a bottle. He was so tired that he was falling asleep while drinking it. Then he rolled over on his tummy and went to sleep on the quilt. This never happens.

We are also having the fence replaced on the south side of the house because it is short. Also, on the back of the house next to the garage we're moving the fence in so Dr. Mc and Big Daddy Nick can park there. I'm not sure when that work will begin.

Today I'm creating a trip to the grocery store and getting what I need to make two pies. I may wait until Dr. Mc gets home from work around 5:15 p.m. It's supposed to be 100 degrees at 3 p.m. and I'm not sure I want to be outside until it is cooler.

The romper he has on is now knee
length until ankle length. 

I've been a little down this week. I know the weather has contributed to my mood. Since 2007, I've spent the summer in Santa Fe where the temperature at this time of year is usually in the mid-80s during the day. Instead I'm in Houston, sweating my buttock off! Usually around August 15 the weather starts cooling off during the day. By Labor Day when I usually leave I'm wearing long sleeves and/or a light sweater. <Insert heavy sigh here.>

The good news is that Mr. B and I are going to Sonoma next week. Good food. Good wine. Cooler weather. My wishes will come true.

Today I'm creating a shopping trip for a client. He wanted some new vases, candleholders, and kitchen items. I think I may need to go back to one place for some personal shopping.

A lazy weekend

I haven't left the house since Friday afternoon. That doesn't make me a bad person, just a lazy one. Mr. B and Dr. Mc have gone outside and told me how the heat is stifling. That's enough information for me to stay inside.

We've watched movies most of the weekend. I've seen four and Mr. B has seen six. Two of the movies just weren't my cup of tea so I left Mr. B to watch them on his own.

Today I'm creating clean clothes. Later today Mr. B is going to grill steaks. And since I'm the MOB, wedding central is in overdrive for the upcoming nuptials.

The perfect evening

Yesterday I ran a bunch of errands after lunch. I spent an hour and a half looking at rental items for the wedding. I went to the fabric store and spent another hour searching for fabrics that I want for the wedding. I went to the paint and body shop to get an estimate on the repairs to my car. All of the errands were done in 100 degree weather. I don't know how people work outside during the summer.

After all my running around I decided that I didn't want to go out last night, so I went to the liquor and grocery stores for some provisions. When Mr. B got home from work, our party began. He, Dr. Mc and I had refreshing beverages while watching movies and cooking pizzas. ( TLP had different treats at the party.) This was the perfect way to stay cool on a sweltering summer night.

Today I'm creating a decluttered room. TLP is beginning to pull up so it's time to remove all breakable items within his reach, as well as anything he might pull off a shelf.

Where are the yard guys?

Sweetness and TLP

It's Thursday, which is usually the day that TLP and I go to the grocery store. Mr. B had instructions for me to give to the yard guys and requested that we not go to the store until they arrived. Well, it's 5 p.m. and the yard guys haven't arrived. No yard guys. No grocery store. No dinner.

Tomorrow is the last week that Dr. Mc has Friday off of work. During the summer months she works four 10-hour days and has Fridays off. I'm not sure if she dislikes being at work for 10 hours or working on Fridays more. It's a hard choice for her.

Today I'm creating a blog about the changes that will take place along Allen Parkway. The City of Houston is spending $11 million dollars to add parking spaces, lights and crosswalks. The project is supposed to take 18 months, but these things usually take longer and run over budget. I'm just not sure the juice is worth the squeeze.

Look closely and you can see TLP's new top tooth.

For the first time in four or five years I'm NOT planning an event for White Linen Night in the Heights. This annual event, which takes place on the first Saturday in August, has gotten so big and crowded that my client decided not to host his private party this year. I'm not the least bit sad that I won't be setting up, staging and working a party this year.

It was 2013 when we had a portion of The Suffers playing at the private party. That wouldn't be a possibility this year, as the band has gotten so popular (i.e., expensive) and seems to be on the road all the time.

Today I'm creating a press release and writing a few blogs, including one about White Linen Night.

Done, done and done!

TLP splashing in his kiddie pool on
a hot Sunday afternoon. 

I spent Saturday and Sunday afternoons addressing wedding invitations. Yes, I learned cursive when I was in school so I usually address everything because I have the perfect teacher handwriting. In fact, I often get asked if I was a teacher when people see my handwriting. Dr. Mc never learned cursive. She always prints, usually in all caps. Sweetness is left handed so her cursive isn't that great.

Dr. Mc and I had quite the set up for addressing envelopes. While I was addressing wedding invitations, she was working on invitations for TLP's first birthday party and entertaining him. It's so hard to believe that in just a few weeks he will be a year old. From a rocky start he has come a very long way! We are so blessed to have such a happy and healthy baby.

Today I'm creating a drive to the post office to mail everything. I'm so excited to have completed all of the addressing. Then I'll be working on blogs and a magazine article.

Friday has arrived

It's so cute how babies will sleep with their bottoms in the air.

Dr. Mc has the day off. She came into the house around 9 a.m. with TLP. We played for awhile, had a bath and a nap, and then they were gone. She is housesitting for her dad and step-mom while they are in Florida. Is it cooler in Florida than in Houston? I hope so.

Now I'm trying to motivate myself to have a shower, get dressed and run some errands. It's so much easier to run errands without TLP in tow. Unfortunately I'm still sitting on the couch in my stretchy pants and Mr. B's shirt. I'm meeting Sweetness and Girafferty at 4 p.m. for cake tasting. Now that's something I can get excited about!

Today I'm creating a magazine article and an outline for future blogs. Nothing exciting.

Such a happy boy!

TLP's mama brought him in the house around 6:45 a.m. He was the perfect house guest in that he drank his bottle and went back to sleep for an hour. I also went back to sleep for an hour. It was the perfect beginning to a Thursday morning!

Yesterday I got all the envelopes for the wedding invitations. Yes, we are running behind in getting the invitations mailed, but that has to do finding a new "celebration" space for Saturday night at the last minute. Hopefully I'll be able to address the envelopes today and put them in the mail tomorrow.

Today I'm creating a trip to the grocery store with TLP. He liked the grocery store last week so hopefully he'll be OK again, today.

Hump Day

Bath time for baby.

I was so tired after work yesterday that I went home and was asleep by 5 p.m., for what I thought would be a short nap. Instead I woke up at 8 p.m. I thought I wouldn't be able to sleep last night, but I was back asleep at 10 p.m. and slept through the night. I should be rested!

After two days of grumpy baby, TLP was back to his smiley self this morning. He has one new tooth on the top and another getting ready to pop out, so I guess he has reason to be grumpy.

Today I'm doing preplanning for an event in November and another in February. I'm also writing press materials. Tomorrow I'll start addressing envelopes to mail out wedding invitations, if my little friend will cooperate!

It never fails

TLP's first trip to Neiman's.

I want to start eating better so what happened? A friend of Mr. B's returned after two weeks in Hawaii and brought a box of chocolates for us. Well, there's always tomorrow. Hand me another chocolate, dear.

Sweetness, Dr. Mc and TLP went to Neiman's today to get one of the dresses Sweetness selected for her wedding. I thought we were in a parallel universe because, at 6:30 p.m., there was no traffic on I-10 or the West Loop. This never happens at this time of the day. I found the perfect pair of Rene Caovilla shoes for me to wear to the wedding. Two-inch heel. Perfect. Signature silver glittered outsole. Good. Swarovski crystal-embellished lace. Fancy! Alas, they didn't come home with me. At $1,250 + tax the purchase would have been a record high for me and perhaps an expenditure that would push Mr. B to his limit with my spending habits.

Today I'm creating a press release, revisions to two bios, and interviewing another woman for her bio. And it just wouldn't be right if I didn't work on a blog.

Success!

Yesterday Sweetness and I found her wedding dress and her party dress. They are both fabulous and I couldn't be more excited. Of course, her wedding dress isn't really a wedding dress. She didn't want anything like that. But the ivory dress she is going to wear is wonderful. It's so Evan.

Equally as beautiful as her wedding dress is the white dress we found for her to wear at the party with her friends. We ordered shoes online. It's really going to happen. Sweetness and Girafferty are going to get married!

Today I'm creating revisions to two bios. I'm also cooking a nice dinner for Mr. B and myself. I'm ready to relax.

Hurray for Sammi

Exploring his kitchen discovery basket.

Sweetness and Girafferty's family wedding and reception will be on a Friday night with around 60 people and the "celebration"with friends will take place the following night.  Without notifying anyone, the venue for Saturday is closing and sneaking away into the night without refunding deposits. So we were scrambling last week to find another venue.

Yesterday, we looked at a perfect venue and the coordinator (Sammi) is wonderful! She was so friendly and helpful, not at all like Michael was at Gallery MSquared. Thanks to Evan's stepmother (Sherry) for suggesting the place and also to our friend Candy for being the most fabulous caterer. We are back on track and I feel like a huge weight has been lifted off my shoulders.

Today I'm creating revisions to a couple of bios and probably writing a couple of blogs. These are things I can do from home while hanging out. Sounds like a plan.

So sweet!

Look at TLP! He is having his morning nap cuddled up with a soft, blue lovie. Such a sweet little boy.

What has happened to Project Runway? It has to be my favorite realty show and it seems like forever since it has been on. I'm ready to be inspired by some sewing. I have ideas for new things to make. Watching Project Runway always motivates me.

Today I'm creating a shopping list. I need to go to the grocery store this afternoon. It will be the first time I've taken TLP and had him sit in the basket. It should be interesting.

Showing me his teeth

Look at those two bottom teeth.

TLP was in a great mood this morning. He was chatty and on the move. Around 9:45 a.m. I gave him a bath in the kitchen sink. He still fits in the sink, but his arms are reaching for everything.

After his bath I decided not to put clothes on him. He played in this diaper while sitting on the floor until his mommy came home for lunch around 11:30 a.m. I think her first words were why doesn't he have clothes on. He hates me pulling on anything over his big head and this morning I decided not to fight him!

Today I'm creating bios and blogs. I'm also making calls about Sweetness and Raff's wedding. It's getting so close and so many details haven't been finalized (flowers, cake, dress, shoes, etc.) so I'm making appointments and moving forward.

The times, they are a changin'

I saw TLP last night for a few minutes, but he was tired and semi-cranky. It was a busy weekend for him being in Tiki Island and out on a boat on Saturday, having a play date with friends on Sunday, and then swimming and dinner with Big Daddy's family last night. It was so sweet how he laid on my chest and slept for a few minutes before he woke up and was on the move.

This morning he was really moving. The days of him sitting on the bed with me in the mornings is now gone. Last week he started his version of crawling. He doesn't get on his knees, but instead uses his feet to push himself along. Although his crawling may look strange, it is highly effective as he is now everywhere. I'm going to have to get a kid's gate to put at the door of the television room where I stay with him. He is also going to need long pants to keep his needs from getting burned on the rug.

Today I'm creating work: blogs, follow-ups, newsletter, etc. Back in the heat and wishing I was in the high desert.

Home again

I had something happen last night that hasn't happened to me in a long time. I got pulled over for speeding. I was going 87 mph in an 80 mph speed limit. Fortunately I was just given a warning. I thought that it was safe to go less than 10 mph over the speed limit, but I guess I was wrong.

I need a glass or two of wine. Now.

Today I'm creating the last part of my trip home. About a hour outside of Houston the traffic stopped. From Sealy until Houston there was stop and go traffic. It was more than frustrating. It added an hour to my trip. Just what I didn't need was another hour added to an already long trip.

The Big Event

This is my last night in Santa Fe. How does the time go so quickly? I loaded every minute of my days with going here and there so as not to miss anything. Goal accomplished.

Tomorrow is the big day: International Folk Art Festival. It is so much fun to attend the market every year. There are always wonderful finds that I purchase for holiday gifts. It seems like a win + win + win. I buy gifts that aren't available outside the folk art festival + I support some incredibly needing international artists + I get some Christmas shopping done.

Today I'm creating revisions to a pro-bono newsletter and packing to go back to Houston. The temperatures in Santa Fe have been in the 70s during the day and the 50s at night. I've worn a light sweater or long sleeve short most of the days I've been here. I guess I'll be putting those clothing items away when I reach Houston.

Sleep deprived

Throwback Thursday photo on Wednesday. My family is
ignoring my pleas for new photos while I'm out of town.

I thought I was tired so I went to bed around 8:30 p.m. last night. Still awake at 9:30 p.m., I found my glasses and opened my book. The bedside light went off and my head hit the pillows around 11 p.m. Still awake at 4:30 a.m., I found my glasses again, got up and made the bed, and turned on my computer. I hate nights when I can't turn off my brain and fall asleep!

It's almost 5 a.m. now and I'm wondering if it's OK, since I haven't slept, to finish the glass of wine I abandoned at 11 p.m. or if it's time to move to coffee? Oh wait. I don't drink coffee. Such a conondrum. What now?

Today I'm creating client blogs. I think I have about six to write, but not all today.

Brrrrrrr

Beautiful Santa Fe garden.

It was in the 60s most of the day. Thank goodness I brought a sweater and a couple of long sleeve shirts. At midday the temp is fine, but in the early morning and after the sun goes down it gets quite cool.

I spent most of the afternoon visiting some of my favorite haunts. I had lunch at Downtown Subscriptions, which is just off Canyon. The pic-of-the-day is of their garden. People were eating lunch outside and enjoying the weather. I wanted to take a picture of the beautiful holly hocks that were blooming. Unfortunately there was a couple blocking my full view. Since I didn't know them I didn't want to take their photo. I finished the afternoon with a relaxing mani/pedi.

Today I'm creating an e-blast and Facebook postings for a non-profit. I have rented a movie to watch on my computer after I finish writing a client blog. The only negative I have about the casita were I'm staying is that there isn't a tub. I would really enjoy a bubble bath tonight. TMI?

I made it

I arrived in SFe around 2:30 p.m. The temp was 64 degrees.

It was a long drive yesterday and today, but I made it to Santa Fe. The pic-of-the-day is where I'll hang my hat for the next week.

After I unpacked I had to run a few errands. First I went by Pettita Casita. The driveway gate was open so I got to sneak a peek at the garden. It is full of flowers and lovely! Sadly, I don't think the apricot tree is going to produce fruit this year. I think a late snow killed the buds again this year. Next I went to my favorite casual place in town for lunch. Newspapers in hand I sat by myself at a table in the corner and ate my sandwich. Then it was off to Target to get some supplies: a small FM/CD player and books (no television in the casita). Finally, I had to make a stop at the liquor store. I hope I have enough Diet Cokes and white wine for the week. The essentials.

Today I'm creating a client blog and answering emails. There is a tiny round dining table and two chairs where I have set up my office. Computer operating. Phone charging. iPad charged. Door and windows open. Soft jazz in the background and a glass of wine chilled and waiting. It's good to be in the high desert, if only for a week. I'm a happy girl.

Happy Independence Day!

An outtake from the engagement photos.

Last night I watched a documentary on the Biography channel of Benedict Arnold that almost made him seem like a hero. As an outspoken military leader who was prone to taking great risks, maybe he didn't receive the recognition he deserved. Because he was unpopular he was passed over for promotions when others took credit for his accomplishments. In some ways Arnold reminds me of George Patton, except Patton didn't switch sides and fight for the Germans when he didn't get what he wanted.

Letters written by Arnold and given to George Washington confirm that Arnold was a traitor who sold American military plans to the British. Arnold did many things to weaken the American army, including selling American supplies on the black market for personal profit. Even after the war was over and he moved to England, Arnold had a very questionable reputation as businessman for his unscrupulous acts.

Today I'm creating a day of packing and relaxing. I've stayed inside the house all day watching a marathon of Sons of Liberty on the History Channel. I wish that the producers, directors and/or writers of such programs would stop messing with the true facts of American history. For example, all of the signers of the Declaration of Independence weren't present to sign the document at the same time, and yet that's what is continually depicted. I want these people to stop rewriting history!

Sweetness and Girafferty.

As Mr. B says, it's Africa hot outside. I'm not sure how he knows how hot it is in Africa since he hasn't been there, but I won't argue with him that it is hot.

TLP is feeling better today. His nose is still runny. His eyes are still red and puffy. But he doesn't seem to be as congested as he was yesterday. He had a fever last night so we gave him some Tylenol. Dr. Mc was able to reach the doctor on the phone. She told Dr. Mc we were doing the right things and to call back if his fever spiked to 104 degrees. Dr. Mc and I agreed that before his fever got to 104 we would have him at the hospital!

Today I'm creating a day of getting items ready to take with me to Santa Fe. Tomorrow, which is July 4, will be a day of cleaning house before I leave for Santa Fe on Sunday morning.

Making a funny face.

TLP has a runny nose today. I'm not sure he has ever sneezed before so every time he sneezes it kind of surprises him. Dr. Mc has put a tube in his nose to clean it out. TLP really doesn't like that!

This afternoon I met with a woman who is producing Pop Vows in Houston on July 10 for gay marriages. I'll be out of town or else I probably would help her. I know that some readers aren't going to like that I would be associated with gay marriage, but I think everyone has the right to be in a loving relationship.

Today I'm creating engagement photos with Sweetness and Girafferty. Speaking of everyone having the right to be in a loving relationship, their wedding date gets closer and closer.

TLP only has eyes for his great-
grandmother's necklace.

I love this photo of TLP and his great-grandmother. Iris is Big Daddy's grandmother who moved to Houston from Park City, Utah several years ago. She lives just a few blocks from Big Daddy's parents who keep TLP on Tuesdays. She often visits them and sees TLP on Tuesdays.

Iris has a colorful toy in her hand, but in typical fashion TLP is going for her necklace. I'm sure he was trying to put the bling in his mouth. After he finished with the necklace he probably went for her eye glasses and/or earrings.

Today I'm creating blogs, two bios and a press release. I was in and out of the office while it was raining and got soaked at least five times. I'm now home with dry cloths on, which feels really nice. Once again it's raining so hard that parts of Houston are flooding. At some point tonight the news stations will take over with non-stop weather reports. Thank goodness for cable television.

He would be a happy camper if he could only
figure out how to get on his knees.

It's not every day that I'm called upon to be the peacemaker in the family, but today semi hell broke out between Sweetness and her dad. Richard is such a mild mannered man and he was upset. Then Sweetness was on the phone crying and swearing that she was going to call off the wedding. Well, she said that she and Girafferty would just get married and not mess with all the wedding stuff. This was breakdown #2 of what I'm sure will be many more before the wedding on September 18.

My morning was spent with TLP. Dr. Mc said he didn't sleep much last night so I was expecting him to  have a long nap this morning. Instead he had a short nap and woke up cranky.

Today I'm creating an afternoon of meetings. At both I was put in a holding pattern. This seems to always happen before I go on vacation. This week will be calm and next week will be crazy.

It stormed last night in Houston. The rain was heavy, but what really scared me was all the lightning.

I leave the heat and humidity of Houston for a week in the high desert one week from today. In preparation, I did some online shopping last night. I'm not sure why I felt I had to buy new clothes for SFe since I've been going there for the past 10 summers. My bad that I always buy new clothes BEFORE going rather than buying WHILE on vacation.

Today I'm creating reservations for Mr. B and me to go to Sonoma Valley in August. We have been to Napa Valley, but neither of us can remember the year. Where has my memory gone? Whatever year it was, we spent most of our time in San Francisco where it was very cold in August. One day we rented a convertible and drove across the bridge to Napa where the weather was beautiful and warm. This time we'll be staying in a house in Sonoma. Very relaxing!

It has taken me a day to recover from an afternoon of shopping with Dr. Mc, Sweetness and TLP. Yesterday we were looking for a dress, shoes and jewelry for Sweetness to wear in her engagement photo. I'm determined to get pictures taken. Sooner rather than later. We're now a step closer.

Our shopping expedition didn't start out well because not long after we got in the car we started arguing about where we were going. We decided on The Galleria and I'm happy to say that, with time, we were able to find everything. It's hard keeping up with the lovely McCarley sisters. They divide and conquer the racks, leaving me in the dust. Probably the hardest thing for me was spending time in the Nordstrom's shoe department, during a sale, and not buying anything for myself.

Today I'm creating a day on the couch. I just realized that I'm leaving for SFe in a week. Can't wait! The pic-of-the-day is of The Richards' garden in SFe. Look at the beautiful lilies!

Last night TLP took eating his first
piece of bread very seriously.

Between Memorial Day and Labor Day, Dr. Mc works 10 hours on Monday through Thursday and has Fridays off. This means that on the days I stay with Aulay, he arrives in the house very early. I don't think he was ready to wake up this morning because he immediately went back to sleep. And so did I.

This morning the weather forecaster said that the high temperature would be 94 degrees, but with whatever and whatever factored in it would seem like 104 degrees. It's going to be a scorcher and just too hot for fair-skinned people, such as TLP and his grandmother, to go outside. He is dressed in a sleeveless romper. For me? I'm still in my sleepy shorts and t-shirt. I'm pretty sure that we will stay inside, sitting on a quilt under the ceiling fan, playing with our toys all day. I need to enjoy this time before he starts crawling and I have to chase him around the house.

Today I'm creating blogs. Maybe I've developed a rhythm for writing blogs for others. I've learned new software and even helped someone else with a problem yesterday. I'm feeling proud that this ole dog learned a new trick.

Photo taken a few months ago of TLP
in his four-sided command center.

Mr. Baby is finally old enough that I can put him in his "command center" in the kitchen while I unload or load the dishwasher, iron, cook, etc. Having him entertain himself while I do something else is so freeing. I don't have to hold him all the time or sit on the floor next to him, which is what I do most of the time he is with me.

Of course, he must be within my eye sight and I must be able to hear him when he is in his command center. I say this before someone calls CPS and tells them that I leave TLP alone while I do housework. That's just not true! I spray him with PAM and put him in the bathtub when I do extended amounts of housework … LOL. Not!

Today I'm creating a search for my cell phone. Thanks to Dr. Mc, I have the "find my phone" app on my phone and computer. It showed my phone at my client's home so I spent an hour looking for it there. I couldn't find it and was ready to slap my computer for sending me on a wild-goose chase. Then someone else located my phone in a drawer at my client's home. I need to slap myself because I had looked in that same drawer three times.

Two dozen beautiful white roses from Mr. B for my
birthday, They still look, and smell, wonderful.

Yesterday was not only Father's Day, but also the last day of my birthday celebrations for 2015. Before my birthday celebrations ended yesterday, Mr. B got me glazed cake donuts with a vanilla latte. In my mind, there's not better breakfast.

He and I stayed around the house most of the day until about 6 p.m. when we meet the lovely McCarley sisters as well as Big Daddy's mom and dad at Good Dog. (Big Daddy is on the road with The Suffers so we included his parents.) I'm always surprised that Mr. B enjoys going to Good Dog. Although the dogs are much more delicious than the basic hot dog, they are still hot dogs.

Today I'm creating a morning with TLP before going to the office and writing blogs. I'm also putting the final touches on a fundraising event for a Houston mayoral candidate that will take place tomorrow night. What's keeping me moving forward right now is knowing that in two weeks I'll be in Santa Fe, NM.

Big Daddy left yesterday to join up with The Suffers on tour. They have been gone with a substitute drummer for about two weeks. I'm sure it's difficult for him to be on the road and leave Dr. Mc and TLP at home.

When Mr. B came home this morning from his Saturday breakfast with his buddy Keith, he and I looked at photos of TLP. Having never had children of his own, Mr. B always has plenty of questions about babies. When do they stop putting everything in their mouths? Will his hair stay blonde? Do you think he is left or right handed? He asks and I always answer, "I don't know."

Today I'm creating another birthday celebration. Last night Mr. B and I were out with friends. First we went to a pop shop for dads and then we cooled off with margaritas while eating Mexican food. Yum! Today we're going to the Houston Center for Contemporary Craft so I can select my birthday present from Mr. B. This will be followed by a dinner for two with my fella. I guess my birthday celebrations will be interrupted tomorrow by Father's Day.

After the burger bash Mr. Baby was hot and
ready to put on some cool pajamas.

I remember being a teenager and thinking how old I'd be at the turn of the century. Now, 15 years past the millennium, it's hard to believe that I'm 63 years young (not old). I could do without the jowls, double chin, and sagging boobs (TMI?) that have come with aging. Otherwise, life is terrific!

I was able to get my mani/pedi yesterday before going to the Burger Bash. With Mr. B, Mr. Baby, the lovely McCarley sisters and their significant others, we drove outside The Loop (gasp) to what was once called Town & Country Mall. It's still an outdoor mall, but it's quite different and known as City Centre. Back to the Burger Bash, every type of burger was available. I couldn't try all the burgers. At one point Sweetness and I decided that we would get a burger and share it. Even with that joint venture we were short a couple of burgers. Then the family came back to the house for cake and champagne.

Today I'm creating blogs. I think I'm becoming the blog queen. I not only write my own blog, but now I write them for two clients. But tonight, it's back to celebrating my birthday with friends. Yippee!

It's my birthday. It's my birthday. It's my birthday. And I'm spending the morning with one of the greatest blessings of my life. I love him more and more every day!

Tonight Mr. B is taking all of us to the Burger Bash hosted by Houstonia magazine. We get to walk around sampling burgers from some terrific restaurants and food trucks. The greatest part for me will be having my whole family with me on my birthday. On Saturday the celebration will continue when Mr. B and I will have a private dinner.

Today I'm creating a day of luxury for myself. After playing with TLP this morning, I'm treating myself to a mani/pedi this afternoon. Oh happy day!

A boy and his ever-expanding circle of friends.

Weather forecasters are predicting doom and gloom for Houston, but so far all I've seen today is a little rain. I did speak to someone in Galveston about an hour ago who told me the island was getting pounded. If that is coming to Houston, it should be here in another hour. Maybe I should check the weather?

Most of the school districts in and around Houston canceled classes and after-school programs today. I can understand everyone's concern considering what happened to Houston around Memorial Day. It was a disaster from which many in and around the city haven't recovered.

Today I'm creating a newsletter and revising a blog before it is posted. I think I have a planning meeting at 6 p.m. tonight, unless it's canceled due to weather. Today is Big Daddy's birthday so he, Dr. Mc and TLP are spending the day together along with Nick's parents. Happy birthday Big Daddy!

In preparation for the dangerous tropical storm that is in the Gulf of Mexico, I went to the grocery store around noon today. There were at least two billion other people there who have been watching the exaggerated weather predictions I've seen. Water and batteries were almost gone, but I was able to stock up on important non-persible items. Potato chips. Chex mix. Wheat Thins and every other sort of cracker. Tuna. Grapes. My theory is that if we lose power, I'll be prepared with all sorts of junk food. Tonight I'm sending Mr. B to the liquor store to purchase the other essentials for a power outage: liquor.

I remember when Ike was heading to the Gulf Coast I was in the car driving to Houston from Santa Fe, NM. Why would I leave a land-locked state when there was a hurricane heading to Houston? We were 13 days without power after Ike. Our fingers are crossed that, as I expect, the weather forecasters are overstating what is going to happen this week.

Today I'm creating minutes for a board meeting I didn't attend and also writing a couple of blog postings. I know there were more creative endeavors involved in my day, but right now they escape me.

More than two dozen burp cloths ready to go.

I ran errands this morning before it got too hot. My plan to stay cool was working until I had to dig in the garage this afternoon. It's hot, hot, hot in Houston and even hotter in our over-filled garage. Fortunately Big Daddy came out to help me in the garage or else I would have melted by now. My age. My weight. The temperature and humidity. All of these probably contribute to the "power surges" I'm continuing to experience.

My question for today is this: How does Walmart stay in business? I'll only go to Walmart if it is absolutely necessary, and that happened twice this week. Wednesday I was in the store looking for cloth diapers to use as the base for my burp cloths. I asked a stocker in the baby area where I could find the cloth diapers. She told me that they don't care cloth diapers. She even asked a colleague, who confirmed that Walmart doesn't carry cloth diapers. I knew this wasn't true because I checked online. Sure enough, with a little more aisle surfing on my part, I found about a dozen packages of plain white cloth diapers. Last night I ordered a 4' x 20" folding table from Walmart so it would be ready for me to pick up at the store. I was supposed to get a text message when it was ready. When I didn't receive one, I drove to Walmart to get it and canceled my online order to get one in the store. After I was home with the table, I got an email stating that the store I went to didn't have that size folding table in stock. Not only did they have the one I bought two hours earlier, but there were also five more on the shelf. Again, how does Walmart stay in business?

Today I'm creating a sample display area in my living room before breaking it down and setting up at the venue tonight. I certainly hope the AC is working in the show venue!

Six Father's Day bibbed aprons with various
pockets: silly cowboys, sports, etc. pockets.

A work associate told me yesterday that I have a great laugh, although it's somewhat mischievous. This made me think about my father who loved to tell stories and laughed with his whole body. He had a terrific sense of humor and his laugh was very contagious. I miss him every day!

After work yesterday, I came home and made aprons for dads. My sewing machine was acting up so it took me much longer to finish the aprons than I expected, but I'm pleased with the finished product.

Today I'm creating burp cloths, I hope. Work keeps getting in the way of my crafting, which is another reason I should have started sewing sooner for this weekend's craft show. I have to finish sewing today so I can look at the tin jewelry I have available and make more, as needed.

As usual I've procrastinated in preparing for the show and sale I'm participating in this Saturday. In one way this is bad because I could have made so many more items, yet in another way it's good that I've procrastinated because I really don't have room to store what I don't sell on Saturday.

Yesterday, as I was making baby blankets, I thought about my paternal grandmother and mother. Making the blankets is a family tradition that was started by my grandmother who later taught my mother to sew. The blankets are simple to make while at the same time so adorably sweet. My grandmother and mother trimmed the edges of the ones they made with crochet. My crocheting is terrible (or non-existent) so the blankets I make are double sided and top stitched around the edge.

Today I'm creating blurp cloths and barbecue aprons. Before I start sewing I'll be doing some writing. Thanks to Big Daddy Nick for setting up the television in my craft room so I can enjoy background noise while I'm sewing.

Being busier than I have been in the past five years isn't good for my blog postings. Now a client wants me to write and post blogs for his company. I can always write about my life, but writing articles that the general public will read can be challenging. Today when I asked (in jest) if I could use a picture of Mr. Baby on a client post, I got over-the-glasses look of "no."

After TLP's bath on Sunday night, I brushed
his hair to the side. He looked like such a
little man.

I'm taking a shortcut on some aprons I'm making for Father's Day. While online last weekend, I found that I could buy pre-made aprons for less than I could make them. What I want to do is add pockets out of fun fabrics (Rockets, Texans, fishing, barbecue, etc.). So I got some pre-made aprons, will sew the fun pockets on them, and price them for this weekend's craft market at a more affordable price.

Today I'm creating blogs, baby blankets, and barbecue aprons. Mr. Baby is with Big Daddy's parents on Tuesdays, so I will go home to quiet house.

I'm sitting on the floor again with Mr. Baby. One of his favorite activities is to sit on the floor on his dinosaur mat, surrounded by his toys and quilts (the quilts are in case he falls backward). He isn't crawling, but has learned that he can get wherever he wants by rolling. Right now he has rolled off the mat and quilts onto the rug trying to get to Rose.

Rose isn't sure about TLP. When he first came home from the hospital she was very curious about whatever it was that was taking my attention away from her. Then she got used to having him around. Now she isn't sure what to think when he rolls around. Rose was sleeping peacefully a few minutes ago until TLP rolled onto him. Fortunately, Rose is the sweetest ole dog. EVER. She loves to give TLP kisses and never messes with his toys, which are good things.

Today I'm creating an e-blast and FB postings before spending the afternoon on the floor with Mr. Baby and Rose. I hope the three of us can find time for a nap this afternoon.