the small stuff

The Happiest Place on Earth...

2012-08-13T17:06:00.000-04:00

Monday, August 13, 2012

3 weeks ago I went into cardiac arrest for 12 minutes. A somewhat simple surgery turned into the scariest day of my life. I can't even begin to express how grateful I am for my surgeon, the team of doctors + nurses who never gave up, the EMS crew and my loved ones. Good laaawwd, let's please never do that again, OK?!! Check!

My recovery has been up 'n down. I have decided to make the best of my good days and listen to my body on the more challenging ones. Today was a good one so far - no pain meds needed, left my oxygen tank at home as I enjoyed the reprieve from the humidity, took a drive through Pocantico and then picked up some groceries.

My "True Blue," aka Kristi, is in Denmark right now exploring and embracing Danish inspiration for her work via Silver Trailer. Kristi has traveled her whole life, and I am lucky to have traveled vicariously through her! Thanks to the best thing since sliced bread, we have been texting for free every day using the WhatsApp app. If they changed the name to "Instant Therapy Abroad," I'd say they were spot on. Here is one of my texts to Kris...

"For once I am letting it out, too...a little each day. It's so scary, isolating and even more so when I am in pain. Today was a good day though. Life is definitely challenging us all right now....and I continue to think about Jen and Stacy and how they found strength each day to fight forward. On the bad days, I feel really fragile, like I have no more oomph. On the good days, I want to make the most of it, whether it's making something, sending a letter or taking a ride and admiring the iconic trees around here - they remind me of my childhood and of you."

Before Kris headed off to Coppenhagen, we joked. Denmark apparently is the happiest place on earth! To Kristi's testament, it truly IS - cuteness galore in everything from their design aesthetic, abundance of bikes + people riding them, and the Danes' love of being social...in person + sans the technology. It sounds dreamy and while Kris has her sad moments, too, we are limiting them while she is in Denmark, so as not to put a kibosh on their claim to fame...HAPPY, HAPPY, and more HAPPY!

Look what Kris put together just for me...this "good day" just got better! Lovin' the small stuff...xo.

Girl, look at that Bao...

2012-06-02T17:38:00.000-04:00

Ohh, hellooo June! My goodness, where has 5 months gone (brain starting to hurt as I'm trying to recall what I did just yesterday)?!! No worries...blogging is like a true friend - no matter how much time has passed, it feels like just yesterday since our last "talk."

Anyway, a spur of the moment, first time visit to H Mart today prompted me to blog. An H Mart just opened up in Westchester not too far from me...

HOLY MOLEY, it's like Asian Heaven!!!

I will definitely have to make regular trips back to this insanely, ridiculous Korean Market --mochi, kimchi, shumai -- it doesn't get much better than that! Anyway, this packaging made me LMFAO in the frozen food aisle. I just love how anything goes now, and who cares if the design has absolutely nothing to do with what it's selling! "Who is this guy?!!!" Check it out...

"I'm Sexy and I Know It...even on a frozen Bao-tze package!"

Twenty-Twelve!!!

2012-01-01T14:13:00.001-05:00

Original photo courtesy of thecurvycarrot.com + my Picnik magic. :)

"So long, 2011...you were kind,
you were considerate, and peaceful overall.

You may have rocked my boat at times,

but thankfully, we never capsized."

A Year in Review - 2011

We celebrated the Year of the Mouse...squeak, eek!

I attended Dragon Boat Camp in Melbourne with 3 of the EMPIRE besties...PADDLES UP!!!

Happy Birthday to me...Pea got me an iPad.

Nothing beats lying in bed with my "iPea" to watch a good movie.

Pea turned 40!!! - The sun was shining and all of Keith's peeps were in the house at our favorite watering hole, J.P. Doyle's. It was a June 4th miracle when KB was carried away and we thought was down for the count after 3 quick hours of fun. How he resurfaced for Round #2 of the celebration is beyond me as well as everyone else at the bar. ;)

Stan turned 98! All I can say is, "When there's a will, there IS a WILL!!!

Thank you for all who you are, even on your tiredest days, Dad. xo

Pea + I relaxed on the Cape squeezing in wonderful visits with family + old friends down through the Boston area. We definitely got our seafood fix in when we scored on running into this little diner in Sandwich,

known for it's world class, huge ass stuffed quahogs!

Jing prevailed after a tough fall and 6 weeks of rehabilitation - Mom, you are the toughest! Thank you for always making us laugh. We know, "you not feeeewww well" sometimes and that you are surely not always "sick" like you say you are, but we still love you more + more.

The spirit of Yin Yang Dragons continues...

What a great day of races we had at Peekskill Celebration 2011!

Thank you Sotheby's for hosting a most incredible fundraiser for EMPIRE!!!

We are humbly grateful for your generosity, support and love.

EMPIRE finishes the season with a win!!! We had THE BEST Race ever down in Philly...Thanks Coach James for believing in us and for reminding us

just how strong we are!

Spirit + Strength = Success

A new beginning at EF!!! Thank you LL+D for this opportunity.

Learning and growing...what an amazing team and what a lucky gal I am!

"Santa Monica, here I come!!!" - our girly getaway meetup at Kat's.

A perfect week of lounging, shopping, snacking, drinking, laughing, Rugby, Venice, biking on the beach and visits with my brother + family

and the wonderful D.Love.

The annual "Paper Trip" with my Kate's girls was so super perfect.

We hit downtown Philly in a big way, but the highlight was probably our visit to Terrain..."Will you marry me, please?" In other words, you must make a trip down there...it's like heaven with a really amazing head merchandiser!

Thanks, D for your organizing and guiding expertise

and for taking us to Amada!!!

We put SantaCon on the map in Tarrytown/Sleepy Hollow!

Raising almost $1,000 for Blythedale Children's Hospital,

the locals and merchants found the holiday spirit to

"get their Santa On!" It was an amazingly, fun night...

what's not fun about 60 tipsy Santas?!! ;)

EMPIRE + Peekskill Celebration is in the works!!!

With the support of the City of Peekskill, I am helping my team to spearhead the 1st Breast Cancer Survivor Races right here on the beautiful Hudson River.

Save the Date...August 3 + 4, 2012!!!

Thank you, Cathy, Jack, + Bruce for just being lovely...we can't wait!

Be gentle, 2012...we are happy you are here!

XOXO

..........................................

This past year was evident of "Truth, Beauty, Freedom + Love." We lost an angel before the year's end, on December 22nd. Jennifer, the co-founder of my Dragon Boat Team, EMPIRE, found the strength to share her last months of life with us. Through the stunning and most honest photography of her husband, Angelo Meredino, Jen showed us grace, passion and courage during her battle with breast cancer. Together, Jen + Ange, told their story of love and touched people across the world.

In the words of Katy Perry, "You're a firework...cause there's a spark in you." Your team will continue to carry your spark, Jen. You have led the way, inspired us and we will be forever grateful for all you have given to us.

SantaCon, Ready or Not!

2011-12-02T23:28:00.001-05:00

So, let's speed date for a sec so I can give you a quick little back story...

I decided to launch and organize a SantaCon Event in my hometown with some friends...we are putting Tarrytown + Sleepy Hollow on the map for the holidays! Anyway, SantaCon is a world-wide event...a day where everyone has the opportunity to be Santa or at least some version of Santa. Ohhh, did I mention that there will also be drinking involved? Now let's roll ahead...planning, organizing, brainstorming, soliciting, inviting, stressing, and more planning. Surprisingly everything is coming together quite nicely! The local bars that we will be dropping by for "Santa Snacks" and if we're lucky, a "Santa Shot," are excited to participate AND donate (although SantaCons do not usually charge participants, I felt like I wanted to bring more meaning to the "mostly drinking" event so I've requested a $10 donation or toy from our newbie Santas, which will benefit the children at Blythedale).

Anyway, let me finally get to the point of my post here..."Our costumes arrived!!!" I ordered a regular adult size for me, an XXL for Pea (he has loooong arms). Never in my wildest dreams did I think twice about how I might look in a Santa suit, after all costumes are required, encouraged and just plain fun. Whhhhheeellll, was I stopped completely in my tracks in my cheap, fake fur-lined, black, felt, pretend boots! After putting on all 7 pieces (shirt, pants, belt, hat, Goldilocks-curly white beard/mustache - which came in a white hairnet...Eeeuuuwww!, pretend boot #1, and finally pretend boot #2) of my Party City costume, I spun around to look at myself in our full-length mirror.

"UUGGGGHHH...Chinese Santa looks STOOOPIE!!!" I began to sweat under my Snuggie-esque top, probably more so out of disappointment. The fake fur was making me itchy and when I wrapped the super long belt around my middle, it actually made me look fatter...no stuffing required (weeeeemp-wwhhaaaaahhhh).

Ohhhhh, wait...it gets better! I managed to keep the beard/mustache thingy from slipping down around my neck (at one point I thought to wear it as hair on my head instead but that just made me look like George Washington). I adjusted my hat one more time and tip-toed out to the living room where Pea was peacefully sleeping, light snore included. I tapped him on the shoulder and quickly stepped back so he could see me in good view. Pea's eyes began to un-glue, and I bellowed out in my deepest acting-voice, "HO HO HO ...Merrrryyyyy..." Pea shook, his eyes WIDE and crazed-looking now and then scolded, "UUUGGGGHHH, you SCARED me!!!! And HOW original...Ho Ho Ho, REALLY?!!"

Geeeesh, he didn't even let me finish my schpeel. "What did I do? Why ya mad at me?!!" That's what I was thinking. Maybe I should have ordered him a Scrooge costume instead...haha! I hope your holidays are as fun as ours...

* Note: Sorry there are no pictures to post tonight. I'll be sure to capture the craziness after December 16th when SantaCon in Tarrytown/Sleepy Hollow lets loose or hopefully you can join the festivities and experience it yourself!

The World as We Know It...

2011-11-27T19:11:00.001-05:00

With Christmas right around the corner, I thought it was perfect timing to share my newest holiday card. Every year seems to zip by even faster than the last and with the passing of time comes reflection. Here is a card I designed to pay tribute to Steve Jobs and for changing the world we live in.

"Hey guys, did you know there's now an App out to guide Santa's sleigh?"
Inside message: *BELIEVE*

This is why I love the Northeast...

2011-11-13T19:23:00.000-05:00

Let's try something new...no pictures to post, just use your visualization skills. So, close your eyes. OK, pretend to close 'em...

Flying up the Merritt at 53mph (I know...reckless!).
I can't wipe the smile off my face.
The treetops make me happy, resembling a cluster of my favorite colors which used to be found in a 64 pack of Crayola crayons - Burnt Sienna, Maize, Goldenrod and Raw Umber.
A dead, furry fox in the middle of the road, his fluffy Amber tail still blowing in the wind.
Little by little, mile by mile the trees begin to look naked, and the next town over is now visible between their trunks.
The shoulders along the parkway look like a Goldschlager bottle before its been shaken, a twinkling of golds covering the ground.
A hawk (or maybe an over-sized crow?!! I'm sorry, my Lasik procedure is nearing its expiration date) glides above in what appears to be slow motion, wings spanned wide.
This is what I love.
This is what inspires me.

See..Change IS Good!

2011-08-30T17:09:00.000-04:00

" Your work is to discover your work and then with all your heart to give yourself to it." - Buddha

This is my last week with Customer Care at EF. I am delighted to announce that I'll be starting a new position within the company supporting our Leadership, Learning + Development Team.

Nervous? Check.

Excited? Check.

Happy? YES!!!

I'm hopeful that I'll be able to contribute in a big way in my new role, and I am confident that by following my heart, it will take me where I'm supposed to be.

Thank you to those of you who have pepped me up when things were going South, who always had a "brighter side" story for me, and who gave me that extra "oomph" when I wasn't sure of myself.

XO,

Jay

Ohh Snap!

2011-08-27T15:42:00.001-04:00

While visiting Boston last month, I popped into Urban Outfitters at Faneuil Hall. UO definitely brings out the kid in me...I can barely get past the front entrance where they are always stocked with artful, quirky books, must-have tchotchkes, and some funny gag gifts. I spent a good hour in that section alone while my Pea waited patiently outside on a bench for me.

It didn't take long before I stumbled across these little Lego cuties. UO is offering a series of individual "minifigures." I grew up on Legos and just HAD to have at least 2 of them. This is what the packs looked like...

Collectibles at UO...get 'em while you can!

Boy, Legos sure have come a long way since my time! I will forever love their C-shaped hands that could cleverly snap onto and hold a mug or a stick of some sort. So lookie now...times have changed and the assortment of accessories and themes have certainly evolved with the times. I'm sending this hip snowboarder to my sister, Nan, who lives a charmed and active life out in Aspen...it had her name written all over it!

Check out her C-grip, holdin' her very own snowboard. :)

Isn't this one adorable, too? "Ahoy, Matey...I seeeeee you!!!"

So plainly, my love for Legos is true. Maybe I took my affinity for them a little too far when I opted for a Lego-esque, snap-on hairdo a few years back. Take a look...

No hairspray necessary. Definitely don't need to worry about any fly-aways here!

The photo above was taken in 2006 when my hair grew back with a vengeance post-chemo! It was the most luxurious hair I had ever owned...brand-spanking new, black, soft, full and ever-so-helmet-like. I swear that's the way it grew in...I had to let it take its course.

Uncanny resemblance to this, right?!!!

I remember my sister, Nan was visiting circa Fall of 2006 and apparently the last time she had seen me, I had zero hair on my head. She looked at me, wide-eyed with a big ol' smile on her face and blurted out, "Omigod, Jay...is that a WIG?!!!

Really, Nan...do you think anyone would even sell a wig that looked like a snap-on Lego hair piece, never mind me buying one?!!!

Me: Nope, Nan...this is my real hair. (Gotta love that girl...I truly do!)

Feeling Blue?

2011-08-22T21:12:00.000-04:00

I found some lovely flax-colored linen canvases at one of my favorite art supply stores. Even with nothing on them, they are sweet, comforting and organic. Sometimes, white is just too stark for me so I grabbed a few of these in different sizes. I tend to be a lover of most things small AND I like to group my "stuff" by color. And so it began...I started to collect on this canvas.

Soon enough, this is what evolved...a medley of little, vintagey-colored "blues," everything from perfectly letterpressed cards to a short twine of baker's string...hand-embroidered fabric to one of my most-used Washi tapes. It's become such an easy, non-committal way of creating eye candy, a mood board and inspiration. The best part is that it's not forever. Next month, I feel some "Yellow Fever" coming on!

Here, have a closer look..."PAPER OBSESSED" - That just says is all!

Now on to my next cluster of favs. Enjoy these last days of summer and the blue skies that come with it!

My Very 1st Guest Blogger...

2011-07-07T18:17:00.000-04:00

I told you she was the goods! Take a peek at Kristi's post. Her words are beyond kind and they lit up my world as I reminisced through her memories of my Mom and our childhood. Kris and Jing definitely have a special connection.

I remember I ran away from home one day...all the way to Kingsland Point Park (Mile Tracker: 0.8mi). So, yes...I was officially "on the lam" all because Jing wouldn't let me have a sleepover somewhere. My rebellious act slowly seemed like not such a great idea after all. It started to rain. When I finally reached my destination, I found coverage in the telephone booth (how dated and nostalgic). Luckily, I came prepared and dropped a dime into the pay phone. I called Kris to "boo hoo" about how wicked and crappy my Mom was. Our talk was short...whaddya expect for ten cents? The next minutes were...well, BORING! Other than just hangin' out by the most awesome swing set ever (which actually was more like an upper-body and hamstring workout), there was not much going on at Kingsland in the rain. Oh, and did I mention that hunger was starting to set in, too (::panic::)?! I eventually found some coverage by the super duper smelly public restrooms, which I believe was the major turning point in my runaway efforts. "What the...?!!! Why am I hiding out in a desolate, soggy and now odiferous park? Will anyone be looking for me here?!!" Yeeeaaahhhh, probably not.

So, I started to head home...back to good ol' Manor Close. I walked the windy, infamous Riverside Drive with squinted eyes, trying to see through the rain. Then out of no where, appeared Jing! With an umbrella in hand, here came Jing...what a sight for sore eyes that wicked Jing was!!! ;)

See, here she is and don't let the guy on the left fool you either!

Hmmmm, I wonder who could've tipped her off?!! Here, lemme give you a hint...

Love YOU, Kris!!!

Birthday Giftie

2011-07-07T14:56:00.000-04:00

Jeannette, Jay, Jay Jay, Pallie, My True Blue, Jay Nay, Sister. These are the names I call my girlfriend since 2 years old, Jeannette Acacia Ho.

Jeannette has always been creative, her grade school art was always adorable, mine, not so much. I’ll bet she gets a lot of it from her mom, Margaret "Jing Mei”. Jing was a second mom to me as we were growing up. When my mom worked, Jing would look after me and my two sisters, never mind the fact that she had ten children of her own to think about.

Jing taught us Chinese brush painting in the basement along side the air hockey table; (yup, it was a dreamy basement). She showed us how to make wontons and how to care for and dance with puppies. She had stories upon stories to tell us; her mental diary of her life in China. She would often tell us of her dream for all of us to go back to China, and looking back through her stories, I often feel like she took us there even though we never left that kitchen with yellow Formica kitchen table.

Jing never judges, she is always feeding whomever walks through that door, no matter how exhausting her day has been. She is ageless and ever so beautiful.

She has a laugh you could replay in your head over and over to keep yourself in a good mood. Her generosity is limitless. Her gift giving is always creative and just perfectly thought out for the recipient.

I celebrated my birthday on Monday and Jay emailed me this video of Jing that she recorded with her iPad.

(Bump your volume up for the full Jing effect!)

I’ve looked at it so many times, the way she tilts her head back when she laughs, the way she blinks her eyes. Jay and Jing are my heroes. Jing and Little Jing. They are my heart and soul. They are soulful and silly, nurturing and innocently naughty, thoughtful, and generous to unbelievable depths. I love them as mother and sister. Being on the west coast and Jay and Jing on the east coast, this video closed the distance and warmed my heart for one of the best birthday gifts ever. Thanks, Jay Jay, you always give just the right gifts.

Mmmmwahhhhh!

~Kristiana

My True Blue

2011-05-27T20:02:00.000-04:00

Zzzzzzzzz.....huh...wha...hmm, where am I? Ohh, hey...yeah, that's right...sooo sorry. This is a blog. I nearly forgot. Perhaps I should refresh my memory...

Here are the results of my research...

A "blog" is defined as;

1. (verb) Add new material to or regularly update a blog (hey wait, I thought you were never supposed to use the word you are defining in the definition)

2. (noun) A personal website on which an individual records opinions, links to other sites, etc. on a regular (oops) basis

A blog is a type of website, usually maintained by an individual with entries of commentary, descriptions of events, or other material such as graphics or video. Entries are commonly displayed in reverse-chronological order (piece of cake...I got this one down pat!)

blogger - a person who keeps and updates a blog (oops again)

Humphfff (sound it out, please). Well, now I feel sorta crappy...calling myself a blogger and barely blogging. I might as well be put up on the wall of shame along side Milli AND Vanilli.

"Girl You Know It's True..."

So, yeah, it's been a looong while, and I'm not gonna lie to you. There is zero excuse for my lack of blogging. BUT, fear no more...I am here to post...here to post that I WILL be posting again. What's even more exciting is that I have asked my "oldest" (as in "I've known this chick since we were 2 years old!!!") pallie to guest blog. Yup, that's right! To shake things up a bit here at "the small stuff," I've asked my friend, Kristi (AKA Kristiana) to contribute to my blog. The funniest thing about this whole deal is, "How presumptuous and ballsy of me is it to ask my BFF to blog on a nearly dormant blog?!!" Now that's freakin' FUNNY!!!

Despite the truth of my "fake blog," it's no surprise to me that Kris has enthusiastically agreed to blog here and share some stuff with us...she is THE REAL DEAL!!! Kris has been my "true blue" for almost 40 years (HOLY MOLEY..."Moley" - that's a whole 'nother story for another time) and more recently she has become my mentor, too. Her creativity, passion and love for living are what have cultivated her business, Silver Trailer...she is inspiring, interesting and amazing all in one breath! Stay tuned for her post and feel free to learn a bit more about my celebrity blogger by visiting Kristi's blog or her website.

Here she is. I told you she was a beauty!

Peace, my friends and "I'll be back!" (ohh, Arnold)

How sweet it is to be turning ONE!

2011-04-05T00:43:00.000-04:00

April 7th marks a milestone birthday for my Goddaughter, Ellena. Already at 1-year old she is strong-willed, fast on her feet and always all smiles. See for yourself...

So, here's a little somethin' I made for Ellena...a keepsake to remember this big happy occasion and to let her know just how special she is.

Wishing you ONE of everything, Birthday Girl! XOXO

Waaabb-bitt!

2011-02-22T23:24:00.000-05:00

Ohh...
Here comes Peter Cottontail,
Hopping down the bunny trail,
Hippity Hoppity,
The New Year's on its waaaaay.

Here's to a happy & healthy Year of the Rabbit, everyone!

"I can't pay the rent."

2011-01-26T17:13:00.002-05:00

So, at the moment, I am fancying mustaches.  Mustaches have become the hottest thing (replacing owls) and are showing up on everything from t-shirts, jewelry and kitchy home goods. They are even popping up as the main "funny" at weddings and events. I can't exactly pinpoint why I have such an affinity for them, but I think I've narrowed it down to two possibilities:

1. I can now proudly sport my stache, my little "fumanchu" if I may. OR 2. My love for that silly, little skit from childhood which somehow provided hours of entertainment as a kid.

I can't think of anyone more who would enjoy this post than some of my sisters. My sister, Nancy and I never seemed to tire of some good ol' fashioned fun. We meticulously folded pleats onto a piece of paper like a fan, pinched it in the middle section and then used it for our performance...

a. (Place fanned piece of paper under nose) - "You MUST pay the rent," in a deep, scary voice. This is the villain.

b. (Quickly move the folded paper to the top of your head, slightly off to one side) - "I can't pay the rent," in a mousy, pleading voice. She is the damsel in distress, who has no money to pay the rent because she has spent way above her means like the rest of us.

c. Repeat steps a. and b. as many times as you like (I think Nan and I averaged about 6 rounds or so. I know, I know...we were weren't creative yet and therefore no improv occurred...EVER!!!)  So, don't forget the hand/paper motions, too...paper under nose, then on your head, under your nose, on your head.

d. After the final cry, "I can't pay the rent!" here comes Money Bags! (Paper fan gets placed under your chin) - "I'll pay the rent," in a manly-man kinda voice.

e.  (One last time on top of the head with full-on girl voice) - "My HEROOOO!!!"

f. (And then final placement of the paper thingy, which by this point no longer looks like a hair bow, a mustache OR a bow tie...it looks like a nothing AND it's sweaty. Just put it under your nose one more time) - "RATS...foiled again!!!" And if you can keep the voices straight, you are way more talented than we were. ;)

Don't confuse Nan for Spock or Charlie Chaplin...she's just the Villain.

Acting can be grueling sometimes.

Love you, Nan! Thanks for the fun memories...even though you tricked me into skipping down Manor Close with my eyes closed while trying to balance on the sidewalk and I wiped out and ripped through my best favorite white tights. ;)

It's Official!

2011-01-04T22:00:00.001-05:00

sniff-sniff...

Ohhhh, lordy!!! So, it's official. I officially did not get the job of Sample Line Assistant. Gosh, where do I begin?!! Well, after 3 interviews and one final "Jeopardy" question the truth came out today. It's definitely been a "waiting game." My internal interviewing process with Eileen Fisher started back in October, which also marked my 3 Year Anniversary with the company. Us "Fishies" have much to be grateful for...the company hit their all-time record year in sales and profitability. Every team worked extremely hard in a challenging economy and it showed - our holiday profit-sharing bonuses were generous to say the least. However, after 3 years of assisting customers via the phone and by email with order queries, trouble-shooting technical issues, and trying to find the perfect occasion outfit I was ready for a change.

Change is good!

One thing about EF that is very clear is everything is a collaboration and thought out very carefully. The interviewing process begins with Human Resources. If you make an impression, then the next step is to meet the Director(s) of the Department. Then if things really start clickin', a 3rd meeting is arranged for you to meet with the rest of the team. I almost feel like a professional by now, professional interviewee, that is. The ultimate dreaded question, "So tell us a little about yourself" no longer causes nausea or results in a high-pitched answer or throat-clearing. While I had plenty of "wait time" to prepare myself for the less desirable outcome, and I realize that "everything happens for a reason", and "when the time is right, it will happen", and "they don't know what they're missing"... despite all of that, it still feels like rejection (little violin, please).

It was during the later part of the day, that a light bulb went off and I thought to myself, "Omigod, I must be a MISFIT...how sad!" I was told by HR that I was 1 of 2 of the final candidates and the decision was really difficult but "the team picked her." HER??!! Who's Herrrrrr?!!! It was here, at this point that I no longer felt like a misfit but more like this guy...

"Who's Herrrrrrr?!!!!*

*(Haha...I like being "dramatical" sometimes).

So back to the "story"... This experience hasn't shattered me (if you want the God's honest truth, dial 1-800-KEITH). What it has taught me is much patience and that eventually my time will come and answering customer service calls will one day be a thing of the past. In the meantime, the women I work with everyday are some of my dearest friends, amazing and inspiring women to say the least, and if I am not meant for a professional change right now, maybe I can change something else like how I sign my name.

"Yaaayyy" (sniff-sniff) I mean, "Yaaayyy!"

2011...starting FRESH!

2011-01-03T16:46:00.000-05:00

Wow, WOW, wOw...here we are, day two of 2011! This past year was like Godspeed..."Slow down, you move too fast"...What a far cry from those long summer days of my childhood when time crept by slower than one of those chubby, furry caterpillars trying to inconspicuously shimmy it's way down the sidewalk before getting squashed, POPPED, splattered and shattered of all dreams possible...What were we just talking about?!!! Oh right, the New Year...

Hand-crafted/letterpressed rolodex by Lovely Design!

One of my first goals to get the New Year started is to actually USE this beautiful handmade "rolodex" which was given to me by a dear friend. Isn't she a beauty?!! Each card is cut from beautifully textured letterpressed paper, an endless array of colors and patterns. When I received this gift nearly a year ago, I couldn't imagine taking a pen to those beautiful cards but now I'm READY!!! I'm ready to gather all of my hand-torn envelopes, with everyone's return addresses and carefully record them into this perfect, little box. It's a new beginning, a fresh start and a great project that will keep me busy and off of FB. :)

So, instead of vowing to a resolution, I have decided to reel things in a bit and to reflect at the things that have landed me here. Forty came quietly this year...no big party, no huge gathering. Jokingly, I have been telling everyone, "40 is the New Farty!" This milestone year brought with it a feeling of content and peace. I no longer felt the need to try 'n jump through hoops...40 felt just right!

"...40 felt just right!"

After being pieced back together from a chest re-section and sarcoma removal, the goal was to find strength again. It was a super sloooow recovery but soon after my final surgery and the last bandages came off, dragon boat practice was full on! EMPIRE, my cancer survivor team had an amazing and victorious second season. As the newbies in the circuit of dragon boat racing, we proved that a boat full of 21 women (and our inspiring coaches) could keep each other going AND afloat. We landed 1st place in the very last 500m race for the season down in Princeton...words could not describe the team's joy,

pride and gratification! EMPIRE at Mercer Lake, Princeton. (Sept '10)

Another memorable happening for 2010 was our participation in the Peekskill Dragon Boat Festival. My cousin, Yvonne and I took on the challenge of recruiting a rec team for this one-day event. After only one practice on the water our team "Yin Yang Dragons," experienced a day of triumph, fun and some really impressive teamwork. It was glorifying to witness twenty-something acquaintances (most of whom were 1st-time paddlers) pile row-by-row, in and out of a boat that looked like it should really have been an amusement ride at Playland Park. Race day proved to be about teamwork, believing in others and of course having fun. Yin Yang paddled our butts off and placed the best time that day for our final 200m heat...YESSSSSS!!!

Me 'n my Yin Yang girls takin' a photo op. (Aug '10)

And then there was Pea...

Probably the most pleasant surprise of the year -Keith and I rekindled our love early this Spring. Keith is my "Pea." I wouldn't necessarily call our relationship a fairytale romance OR a Greek tragedy...I think we fall somewhere in between. We have gone through happy times and challenging ones in the 9 years we have known each other. The "new" relationship is about a daily respect, friendship and continued laughs.

Pea at Fort Tortuga off of Key West after telling him I forgot to pack our lunches...just kidding, Pea. (Oct 2010)

The years to come will always be unpredictable, exciting & new and full of ups and downs. Just as excited as I am for the New Year, I am equally grateful for this past one. Much love to everyone and wishing you all a healthy and fabulous 2011!

Someone really LOVES me...

2010-02-24T16:44:00.003-05:00

So...not many people can say they have their very own little "Martha." Well, I happen to be one of the lucky ones!

The other day, the post master left a post card in my post office box (I swear this isn't a riddle). I had received a package! Thankfully, my friend, Karen who I share a PO box with retrieved it for me. She texted me, "You got another piece of handmade mail!" When I saw that it was a package from my friend, Deanna I knew it had to be good...or better yet, ridiculous! Deanna is one of those crafty gals who pays attention to every detail...the details that 9 out of 10 of us would never notice. I suppose those skills come from being a textile designer. I carefully opened the box and pulled out this perfectly packaged, homemade, Valentine's Day s'mores kit....WHUUUUDDDD?!!! As you can see, the cellophane wrapping is still in tact...as tempted as I am to rip through the wrapping so I can study each carefully picked and placed ingredient, I also don't want to mess up the presentation of it. So, here goes a description of everything which sits ever-so-neatly in this amazing giftie:

a scalloped, die-cut, letterpressed label that says "VALENTINE" on it, tied with brown and white "old school" bakery string

the perfect, simple HERSHEYS bar

a stack of graham crackers tightly wrapped in wax paper

a set of wooden skewers in a wax sleeve. tied with the same "old school" string

9 cute-as-heck, squishy, pink and white, heart-shaped marshmallows

a letterpressed valentine day card

Between Deanna's thoughtful and creative ways, she brightens my day every time I receive something from her in the mail. Snail mail is totally the way to go to make someone feel super loved...thank you, D!!!

Local inspiration...eye candy!

2010-02-24T16:41:00.005-05:00

So, these images are a little old...I forgot I had them on my camera! None-the-less, they were soooo worthy of posting on my blog. There is a little, sliver of a gallery in Tarrytown called Eyebuzz ( www.eyebuzzfineart.com ). For those of you who love all things small, this space takes the cake. The owners of the gallery hand select artists and artwork to be displayed, each show with a different and unique theme. Back in the Spring of '09, they hosted a show featuring artwork by Jennifer Judd-McGee. How impressive!!! Her artwork featured a variety of collage work using paper, paint, and meticulous yet playful line-drawings...some were prints and others original work created on canvas-like blocks of wood...just beautiful! I made a point to study each one, literally with my nose just inches away from each piece...they were that interesting, that intricate and that cute!!! These 2 images were my favorite. I talked myself out of purchasing either of them with the sneaky thought of trying to copy her style, ideas and concepts myself so please do not forward this blog link to the artist...I would have a rather uncomfortable time explaining myself for sure!!!

I hope you enjoy them as much as I did!

Chinese New Year...the Year of the Tiger!

2010-02-24T16:40:00.004-05:00

Ok, so I guess you could say I'm making up for lost time or I'm turning over a new leaf for the New Year. This is record...5+ posts in one month's time..."Inconceivable!"

Last week my family celebrated the Chinese New Year. Sweetly, the New Year landed on the same day as Valentine's Day this year so the treats were endless including everything from homemade wontons, lucky red envelopes filled with money, popping crackers and lots of chocolate hearts. The "crackers" were an unexpected addition to the festivities. But they turned out to be the most festive part of the day and reminiscent of the traditional fireworks which are set off for the New Year to scare away the evil spirits. Mom landed these silver colored crackers that resembled a wrapped candy. When you pull both of the flared ends of the cracker, it POPS and out falls some of the cutest, little prizes. They far outdid the Cracker Jack kind of toys but our favorite find were the colorful, tissue paper crowns that came in each cracker. The crowns were reminiscent of Burger King's...remember those?!!! So, I said to my brother, "Oh great. Now everyone will think we celebrated Chinese New Year at the local Burger King!" I mean we are ABCs (American Born Chinese) and their sweet 'n sour sauce is yummy but that would be pushing it. So, here's a photo of my special niece, Julia and me and here's also to a happy, healthy and lucky New Year..."Gung Xi Fat Tsai!"

Paddles Up!

2010-02-21T19:14:00.020-05:00

Last summer I had the privilege of joining a couple of dragon boat teams. In case you're wondering, dragon boat racing has become more and more popular in the states and Canada,too. It involves a big ass boat, and the teams are comprised of a drummer, 20 paddlers and a steersman. Since being re-introduced to the sport after 10 years, I was lucky enough to find an all-exclusive team of breast cancer survivors to paddle with. Our team, The Empire Dragons, is currently sponsored by Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and their Center for Integrative Medicine. We are an amazing group of women, and we all have "a story." Dragon boat has created a life-changing outlet for me as well as a much needed support system for me. On top of the inspiring people I have met since last year's Peekskill and Mercer Lake Festivals, I am also proud to help spread awareness, to lend support to other breast cancer survivors and to know and believe that not only are we survivors but we are STRONG! I am grateful and honored to be a part of ALL that!

After anxiously waiting for the diagnosis of a new found tumor this past winter, my pathology report came back positive for a somewhat rare and aggressive sarcoma (cancer of the connective tissue). While i was relieved it was not the inflammatory breast cancer again, the news still deflated me. This was my 4th run-in with cancer, each time a different one...how crazy, right?!! As my breast surgeon remarked 4 1/2 years ago, "You have a pot pourrie of cancers." Oh luuuuvvvly!

So, yes...it's been a roller coaster of emotions and thoughts, however my focus was to get myself to a good, strong, peaceful place before my surgery. I also continually counted my blessings...my family, my friends and the fact that I am still finding things to laugh about everyday, no matter what! What more could a girl ask for (other than a fresh hot pie, a baby otter and a Kimora Lee Simmons Hello Kitty diamond necklace)?!!

As frightened as I was this time around with cancer, I kept dragon boat in the back of my head..."I WILL be back on the water and more than anything I dreamed of paddling this spring with my team who continue to inspire me!

PADDLES UP!

Winter...

2010-02-16T16:17:00.002-05:00

I love winter! This is a photo shot right in my backyard. Even in the cold of winter, this trellis seems to find beauty in its own peaceful way.

Whooo loves you?

2010-02-16T15:35:00.007-05:00

WOW, wow, wow... am I a snail of a blogger or what?!!! It's been an eventful winter to say the least. A new cancer popped up this past November, my amazing surgeons did magic on me and now I am patiently waiting to finish up some of the reconstructive surgery. In a nutshell, I am a human Mrs. Potato Head...a piece of patchwork! But forever grateful that I am here in one very "interesting" piece.

So, am I ever thankful that my little crafting bug has resurfaced...halleluja! It's been forever since I felt any urge to create...it was sort of depressing.

But this little guy has put a smile on my face for sure and inspired me to get out my thread and sewing needles. I love sewing by hand, thanks to my Mom. My Mom only sews by hand and I seem to be following in her footsteps. When I was little (I know...hard to imagine but just try as I am STILL the biggest Chinese girl I know) I would sit on the side of her bed while she stitched. I was her "threader" and took tremendous pride in threading her needles.

In honor of Valentine's Day I decided to make Maggie an owl finger puppet. Whether Maggie knows it or not, she loooves owls (and Hello Kitty). Working with felt is like using construction paper...it is so basic, I love it. I'm also hoping to create a variety of bird finger puppets. I love birds! How sweet would they all be displayed on some branches...cuteness!!! In the meantime, I hope my owl makes you happy and feeling loved!

Asian Inspiration!

2009-04-08T22:27:00.006-04:00

Finally, a trip down to DC during the infamous Cherry Blossom Festival! The weekend couldn't have been better...we had amazing weather and our visit to see our friend's Senior Recital at Catholic University was worth the trip alone! My friend Megan and I spent the day dilly-dallying downtown DC and were immersed in the beauty of the blossoms, a breath-taking view of the Monument and a festive day of Japanese culture. We fantasized about the possibility of running into Obama but defaulted to watching him on TV in our hotel room when we realized that he had landed in France that day...maybe next visit we will be privileged with a sighting!

There was so much to see on Constitution Street but Meg and I spent a good portion of the day hovering over one particular vendor's table. This booth was selling handmade stuffed animals...but these were not your usual GUNDS! These adorable, charming, little animals were sewn from vintage kimono fabric, much resembling patchwork. They had kittys, bunnies (just in time for Easter) and even those cell-phone trinkets that dangle from your phone. Soooooo, freakin' CUTE!!! I had to get just one (I'm trying to downsize with the chotchkes) for my friend, Eileen's little girl, Maggie. Eileen loves all things vintagey and orange so I thought the kittys below were perfect! They remind me of Eileen and Maggie...that's just how they look when they are hugging each other, cute and super happy!

I thought to also add a photo of this vintage fabric which hangs in my living room. It was originally displayed in our family's Chinese restaurant, the Shanghai Inn and used to adorn a screen which separated the dining area from the kitchen. My mom passed it along to me a few years ago (I wondered if it would smell of our signature Pu Pu Platter, which back in the 70's seemed to be the most popular appetizer at the Shang, but it didn't...SCORE!) so I decided to have it stretched onto a canvas. I love the Chinese cloud motif...it is often seen in Chinese art. Anyway, shortly after hanging this fabric, I received my monthly subscription to Domino Mag (boo hoo, they recently closed their doors) and found that one of their featured interior designers used the same fabric to re-upholster a couch...how funny, right?!!!

2 jings

2008-07-05T17:20:00.003-04:00

omigod...talk about the small stuff!!! this is a photo of my ma and baby maggie. maggie was born on 6/17 to my dearest friends eileen and ivan. they named their first margaret elizabeth after eileen's mom. my mom's name is margaret, too...we call her jing, her chinese name. so, here you have it..."jing and lil' jing!" she truly made my mom's day!