I love candles, as much as I love incense. However, candles add an visual ambiance that incense don't. I'm also a lover of labels. Yes, sad to say, but I buy artisan beer and wine for the pretty different labels that adorn them. So when I came across this candle in the store, I was smitten on the label and had to buy it. Not only was the label cool, but the flavor was equally awesome. Anise and Black Locust....sounds exotic, intriguing and a little magical.....Something you would find brewing in a witches kitchen....something possibly intoxicating. It burns and smells delightful.

The Island

Some good friends of mine decided to take our kids and grandkids to Cumberland Island, GA for an adventure day. The island off the Georgia coast is uninhabited. It's radius spans 17 miles and it is BEAUTIFUL. The ferry takes you early in the morning and returns to pick you up late afternoon. Our grand plans included much thought out photo shoots with props toted from home. However, we picked the coldest weekend to venture there with winds feeling like it was 30 degrees chilling your every bone. We were outside for 8 straight hours in this weather, plus I hiked for three miles toting my 3 year old granddaughter because her little legs were tired. However, it was an adventure indeed. We saw the old mansion ruins and had the wild horses run past us within arms reach. I don't think I have ever heard quiet like that before. We plan on returning to camp over night in June for a second go around at adventure island:)

My Sweet Girl

My Sweet girl....I remember when we picked you out 12 years ago.  You were awkward, but oh so sweet.  Alexis and I visited for several weeks until you were ready to come home.  We were joyous and  enamored by your sheer pug cuteness!

I sit back and watch age creeping up on you.  Your spunkiness is slower, but still there.  You still make me laugh at your funny antics and I know I can rely on your faithful companionship.  My heart will be heavy someday when you are gone.   Know you are loved my sweet girl:)

Letters to Our Daughters

Dear Daughter #3,

 I am writing this letter to you, something I wish I would have started when you were little, because in 12 days you will turn 18 years old. What a milestone in your life. A time now when you dream of being on your own and grown up, a time in your future that you will look wistfully back to. Remember my dear girl, that time has wings, but don't let her fly to fast and far away from you. Someday, you will look back and wish you were at your 18th milestone once again.

 I went into labor with you early Sunday morning on Superbowl sunday. I waited all day and went into the hospital that night at 6pm. You were born a few hours later. You descended into the world with fast fury and your face resembled a blueberry for the next week as proof. You were a beautiful child, with features as dainty as a little fairy. You are the baby of three beautiful daughters. I could not want for more.

 As fast as you came into the world, you grew. You grew into the beautiful young woman that I watch everyday. As I watch you, my heart bursts because I am so proud of who you are, and yet my heart hurts when I think of you being all grown up, ready to start your life's venture. You are who you are daughter #3....You are smart, witty, unique, quirky and most of all as beautiful on the inside as you are on the outside. Remember, that is what counts.

I want you to know that I believe in you. I believe in your dreams, as should you. You have many years to leave your footprints in the sand. Don't rush things, time is your friend. Most importantly and most of all, remember that I love you more than you could ever imagine and that I am your biggest fan.

 Love,

 Your Mama


 Next stop,  from Nicole!. Thanks for reading our blog circle!

Deliciousness

Weekend lunch with the chicks. It's our favorite thing. I am a foodie....I hate chain restaurants....I love fresh food....I love ethnic food....I love little bakeries that have a french flair....and Addy loves Orangina from Italy:)

How I see You

This is how I see my son. When he was little he was a mama's baby. Now technology and friends have taken my place. The only boy out of three sisters....my pregnancy was complicated...he is complicated. He is the youngest of four, quiet in the shadows of his sisters. He is handsome and smart...and will forever be my baby.

Little Chick

Dear Addy,

 You have always loved the chickens. You would sit for the longest time holding them in your lap wrapped in a little towel or shirt. Except for grouchy rooster, they loved you. Little pigeon thought she was a dog and followed you down the road, running behind your little pink bug. My little chick, you are special..............you have a nature's soul.

 Love, Yaya&#9829