Life's a Beach

2012-01-22T22:57:00.008-05:00

Some pictures Chris took of Dom for Christmas

Hard to believe these two are going to be 21 this year.

(my son Matt and my niece Sam)

Always hard to say goodbye.

Mommy's helper

Picnic and a Game

2012-01-15T22:10:00.000-05:00

touch down!

Good game

My First Custom Quilt Sale

2012-01-09T20:38:00.006-05:00

At the last employee craft show, one of the doctor's was admiring a small lighthouse quilt. She asked if I could make her a King size. I said hell yea!

She loved it.

2012-01-01T08:31:00.003-05:00

Our New Year's Eve feast from our favorite local pizzeria. Have a blessed 2012. Love you all. God bless!

Merry Christmas

2011-12-25T21:51:00.001-05:00

This is Dom's 3rd Santa picture with this guy. Isn't he cute?

Christmas morning Grandpa's turn reading the First Christmas

Annual Christmas picture

one of a thousand pictures of Dom opening gifts Basketball quilt to go with his Space Jam DVD. The boy loves basketball.

Christmas breakfast

Dom's very own Nativity set

Dom with his portable DVD. He thinks its a laptop. shhhhhhhhhh

NY Abuelitos gave Dom his very first Toy Story big boy bed. Can you find the real Woody, Buzz and Dom?

We spent our Christmas doing what we usually do, Christmas movies and then we started watching first season of Glee. two days later, I was officially a GLEEK.

Merry Christmas!

Christmas Eve at Cindy's

2011-12-25T21:43:00.027-05:00

Dress Code: Christmas pajamas Menu: appetizers. Yep we're rebels.

This is her happy face

Finally finished Sophia's Christmas quilt from last year. =

It was a full house but so many were missing.

We created a video and dedicated to our sisters, aunts, uncle, cousins, niece, nephew and in-laws.

You can check out the video on my YouTube.

Alana's 1st Birthday

2011-12-18T23:35:00.011-05:00

We went to my work sister, Dolores' granddaughter's 1st birthday party. Dom had a ball.

Birthday mini for Alana. gift card on the left

Let's do this Nana Dom and Alana

Real men wear PINK

Happy Birthday!

Happy Birthday

2011-12-11T23:15:00.006-05:00

Happy Birthday Cindy and Fernando.

The Candle Blower Bandit is at it again.

Some pictures from our Orlando vacation. Love this Pictureframes App.

Did some sewing and Chris cooked.

Chili's

Have a great week.

Dom meets Buzz

2011-12-04T07:25:00.001-05:00

Thanks to the generosity of my dear friend Judy, who let me use her time share for 1 week, Fern and I were able to take the family to Disney. The plan was to see Mickey's Very Merry Christmas but I bought the wrong tickets : ( Oh well, it was festive enough for us.

Dom trying to catch snow flakes

December Daily 2011

2011-12-01T19:23:00.003-05:00

Finally December. Here goes the cover.

Come back for the pages...

Happy 18th Birthday Corey

2011-11-30T22:30:00.003-05:00

Dominick and Edwin's Birthday

2011-11-26T07:56:00.000-05:00

Happy Thanksgiving

2011-11-25T18:10:00.000-05:00

Thanksgiving was wonderful. We were joined for the first time Edwin, Paul, Sam and Cookie's little baby in her belly. Yes, I will be a Titi again. We are so thankful for so much but mostly for our family and so many blessings from God.

Happy Birthday Chris

2011-11-23T17:12:00.000-05:00

Chris husband and friend/cousin-in-law through her a surprise Twilight party.

Matt with an apple

We printed labels from this site.

Red velvet bloody cupcake tower

She loved it. I left early but I heard they had a great time.

2nd Birthday Party

2011-11-20T12:03:00.003-05:00

Dominick's 2nd birthday was a blast he had his very own bounce house love GRANDPA

Rock Star cake by Chris

It was an Alvin and Chipmunks theme party

witha taco bar

Can't belive he's 2. Time flies when you are having fun.

Happy 2nd Birthday Dominick

2011-11-18T10:39:00.000-05:00

Breaking Dawn - Part 1

2011-11-18T08:59:00.002-05:00

Best movie yet. 5 stars. Can't wait to see it again and again and again Went with Chris, my nephew Edwin and Paul. It was great. The premier landed on Edwin's 30th birthday.

Guess who's team he's on? Thought about my sister Mary throughout the movie. She is a huge fan and it would have been awesome to see it with her. Maybe next movie.

More More Madness

2011-11-15T11:02:00.000-05:00

While Chris was away guess who stepped in and came with me to see Eclipse? Yep, my hubby. I think he liked it.

December Daily 2011

2011-11-13T17:00:00.005-05:00

It's that wonderful time of year and I will be doing my 4th December Daily inspired by the amazing Ali Edwards.

My dimensions are the same for all of my albums, 6X9. This year I did not do a fabric cover because I fell in love with this paper and instead of my usual binder rings I used my Bind-It-All. I am using last year's K&Company Yuletide collection that I purchased end of the season for 75% off; can't beat that. I always buy double sided paper. I stamped the numbers on scraps from my pages and the rest will be tags. I am also the proud owner of the Technique Tuesday Studio AE 25 Moments by Ali Edwards stamp set. As soon as it came in I teared open the envelope pulled out the stamps and stamped away. I felt like an addict.

Front and back cover

Have a great week

11-11-11

2011-11-11T11:11:00.000-05:00

The Madness Continues

2011-11-09T11:03:00.000-05:00

We went to see New Moon but something was wrong with the movie. We had a choice of waiting an hour and hope that it works or get our money back. Well we waited and waited. We went to see Puss in Boot 3D. I am happy to report that we got to see New Moon and we got 8 free movie tickets The movie should have started at 7:30 and we left the theatre at 12:00. What can I say, I'm a Twilighter

Twilight Madness

2011-11-01T21:01:00.003-04:00

I have read the books and I have seen each movie minimum of 10 times each, so why did my daughter and I feel the need to go see it AGAIN in the theaters?

just because

Halloween 2011

2011-10-31T23:30:00.004-04:00

Ahoy Matey

Ready for bed with wearing last year's Halloween pajamas and his BOO quilt

Happy First Anniversary

2011-10-23T22:42:00.007-04:00

This was my gift for Chris and Danny first anniversary. It really should have been their wedding present but I'm a little slow. NY theme of course.

Cutting the last of their wedding cake. Finally, I have more room in my freezer.

It was still moist and fresh.

and behind a quilt was wall art from the wedding. I figured since I spend enough on it I might as well keep it for their first anniversary but I will be removing it this week.

While his parents were out celebrating their first anniversary, I got to spend Saturday night with this guy. It was a Disney theme night. Well he's not a fan of Cinderella but we agreed that Tangled was our favorite. His latest obsession is my alarm clock. Have a great week.

I can't wait

2011-10-20T07:39:00.001-04:00

Happy Birthday Mom

2011-10-16T08:28:00.010-04:00

My two sisters from NY, Mary and Cheeky surprised my mom for her birthday and we had a surprise party for her last Sunday.

next day my sister Cindy and I took off and we went to the beach with Chris and Dom.

Below is Cheeky and Dom.

for the last night we had a great dinner at Chris'

We had a great visit and I miss them already but they'll be back.

Have a great week

Happy Birthday Danny

2011-10-02T21:27:00.002-04:00

Cakes by Chris

2011-10-02T18:49:00.003-04:00

With a little help from a few YouTube tutorials and lots of patience and talent, Chris created this cake for a baby shower. Can you believe she has no formal training?

Can't wait to see her next creation.

2011-09-25T22:43:00.007-04:00

It's never too early to start thinking about scholarships, so we have him practicing his dunk.

But don't worry we're working on a few backup plans.

there is modeling

golfing

and gardening

stayed tuned for other ideas for your little ones.

I'm away at my quilting retreat. Working on lots of projects and missing my family. Can't show you any previews since so far what I have finished are gifts. OK maybe just one.

Have a great week.

We will never forget

2011-09-11T23:14:00.002-04:00

Happy Birthday to Me

2011-09-06T22:46:00.006-04:00

Went to work and was surprised by a homemade apply pie from my boss YUM

Later, to Cici's for ALL you can eat pizza and home for homemade Cake by Chris. HEAVEN

Thanks to all my family and friends for always making me feel so special and for my wonderful gifts and of course my little Dommy.

And for my 48th I decided to finally cut my hair, Yep. I did. I'm not in love, but I like it a lot.

2011-09-04T18:27:00.013-04:00

Yesterday, Sister Cookie and Sam hosted their first family dinner.

Great food and a great time.

Mikey and I shared a birthday cake.

my boys

and mom is the center of attention

Today we went to the Miami Zoo.

Ready set CHEESE

one more, I wasn't ready

I think Dom had a good time too

there were at least 5 turtles in the tank

and then it started to rain. It was great it eventually stopped and it was much cooler.

But then it started again, so we left early. We'll try it again in the winter.

Have a great week.

Happy Friday

2011-09-02T07:07:00.002-04:00

Happy September

2011-09-01T07:17:00.003-04:00

Love Dominick, Kayla and Sophia

My Little Boys

2011-08-31T07:13:00.001-04:00

2011-08-21T22:31:00.006-04:00

Pudding Face

Cakes by Chris 2nd swimming session completed.

This is a thank you mini I made for my neighbor Pat. She has four grandchildren.

The city mandated 6 houses on my block to plant trees; she had to plant 2 trees. She got us the best price and arranged the whole thing. Thanks Pat and Mr. Bill

I kept it very simple.

peace out

Meet our Tree

2011-08-17T06:54:00.001-04:00

We are doing our part for the environment by planting a tree. OK, OK the city made us do it but we were happy to oblige. For as long as we've lived in our house and since loosing our tree a few years back, we have wanted to plant a tree. I am happy that we were forced into it. I love it; it’s so cute.

Just thought I share

2011-08-14T13:16:00.001-04:00

This is Dom's diaper bag which was purchased from Etsy. I highly recommend.

We love it. It's very roomy and great for traveling. Of course I had to make a quilt to match for my little monkey. It's my favorite pattern.

Quilting done by my quilter friend Beth.

A day in the life of a State Park Superintendent

2011-08-07T12:57:00.006-04:00

Year old black female bear raiding picnic baskets in one of her parks. The bear was tranquillized, conditioned then released unharmed.

How cool is my baby sister

Have a great week

Congratulations Matthew

2011-07-31T15:43:00.019-04:00

While continuing his education at the Broward College, Matthew decided to try bartending. He is now a certified Bartender/Mixologist trained at the

Weird since he's against drinking.

Correction, WASaction shot

his first mojito Although I do not expect it to be Matthew's career; I celebrate all of his accomplishments. I am proud of his dedication and I am happy that his is enjoying what he does. So please join me as we wish Matthew success and many many tips.

Reviewing the Book of Matthew C. Torres

Dominick calls out to Grandpa until he stops working and gives him a fake out kiss through the glass door. Dominick patiently waits for Grandpa to give in and let him out

Dominick expresses his success with a little fist pump. Who can resist.

Look how happy he is when he sees his Nana.

Life is Good

Have a great week

Happy Birthday Samantha

2011-07-30T16:00:00.000-04:00

Apple doesn't fall far from the tree

2011-07-24T20:58:00.009-04:00

Yes, my baby, handmade this invite for her BFF Nat's Bachelorette. This picture does not do it any justice. She free handed the corset and the swirls. She used stickles, lace and ribbon. Chris and the rest of the bridal party went all out. Chris insisted on hand sewing the table runner and made the floral arrangements.

She also made the cupcake party favors. Chris came over one evening and as we chatted she made all the tags

drum roll please

another

Cake by Chris

Chris made this cake to match the corset invite.

I heard it tastes and good as it looked.

I love the boob sparkles And just because I had such a great day, I thought I share

Fern and I had a great and productive day. We organized the garage; a very overdue project. It was just us, breakfast, lunch and dinner. We even had pool time together. Yes, it was a great day.

*******************************

And just for some randomness, I like to say, I like going to work. Yes, you heard me, I like getting up at the same time every day and starting my routine. I need the structure and I think it helps me appreciate my time off. Do I have a great day every day? No, but most of my days are great; that’s enough for me. I have good boss that I respect. I love my work family especially my work sisters. I work for a great organization and for the most part every one I see daily are good, decent, hard working family people. That’s enough for me. I get to meet many fascinating accomplished people. My favorite days are the days we get inspected; the energy and team work is awesome. I go in most days with a smile on my face saying good morning to all I pass, mostly strangers. I thank God for every day but I have so say, I feel most gratefully when I’m walking into work. Mornings are my favorite time of day; especially in Florida. Today, I can honestly say, LIFE IS GOOD, I have been blessed big time and I an happy. Thank you God. Have a great week

20 Months

2011-07-18T19:13:00.005-04:00

I stopped blogging monthly updates and I'm so sorry I did. I want to remember everything and lets face it, my memory is not getting any better. I love being a Grandma. Its a third chance for me. This time I will take my time. I will not worry about dishes or laundry. I will let him make a mess (within reason, I'm not crazy), he can take all his toys out, he can eat cookies but no soda and watch TV but he can't play with Nana's computer.

At 20 months

he can sing his ABCs and happy birthday
he can eat with a fork
he can hold a crayon and scribble in his coloring book . If you ever gave a 1 year old a crayon you know this is huge
he can make baskets in his basketball hoop
he knows all his body parts by name
he repeats what you say, clearly. so be careful.
he can count his toes
he can open the pantry and help himself to cookies
he can float in the pool with assistance, find the wall and slide like a monkey until he reaches the steps. that's the song his swimming teacher sings. It’s a very catchy tune.
he loves bubbles, basketball
when he goes outside he's always trying to get the basketball to play like the big kids
he loves music and he pumps his little arms whenever he hears it
he knows how to turn on his dad's IPHONE and make calls and slide to the next screen. No lie, one day I received a call from him on my cell at work. I didn't answer so he called my job. Coincidence????
he can make me stare at him in amazement
this kid cracks me up. He is funny, charming and a flirt.

What can I say, he completes me.

Life is Good

2011-07-17T20:32:00.006-04:00

My Saturday started watching Dominick in his swimming class. He is doing so well. Today Chris dropped him in the pool and he instinctively turns his face up and starts to float to the edge of the pool to safety. That his instructor, Ms. Laurie, next to them. She is awesome. Chris had a bachlorette with her husband in the wings waiting to assist. What a good husband. I get to take this guy home. This is him singing his ABCs.

Dinner for two

Bubble bath time

some creative time

milk and bed time

Up at 7:00. He starts his morning with a game of golf and

some basketball

I could not resist these toes

some more creative time

breakfast. Is it just me or his this kid amazing. See how the forks goes straight for his mouth

finally a nap

No more pics. After his nap Grandpa took him to the park.

Pictures cannot capture his irresistible personality. I stare at him and I still cannot believe we are blessed with his sweet face. Thank you God for my Dommy

Welcome to Florida Edwin & Paul

2011-07-10T20:53:00.004-04:00

Key Lime Cake by Chris

Happy Birthday Mary

2011-07-05T12:19:00.002-04:00

Happy Birthday Shauna

2011-07-04T09:17:00.002-04:00

2011-06-26T14:21:00.068-04:00

WARNING

HUGE POST

June has been a very special month for us. On June 3rd my nephew Ralphy graduated from Bronx Community College with his AA. On June 4th my nephew Raymond graduated from Rhode Island School of Design with BA. On the same day, my nephew Corey graduated from Coral Glades High School . June 5th my father Victor turned 70 and on the same day we had Corey ' s graduation party. On June 9th we ALL went to NY for Raymond ' s graduation party on Saturday June 11th. Then on Sunday, June 19th we celebrated Father ' s Day. And the months is not even over yet. Our NY trip was awesome. All my sisters, my brother Luis, in-laws, nieces and nephews and even my brother from another mother was. We had a blast. I got there early on Thursday and helped my sister shop. Friday was another day of shopping and cleaning. Saturday was started by cleaning, setting up, and picking food, party stuff etc. The food was awesome and the weather was perfect. It rain on and off but it only helped to cool off the night and my brilliant sister rented a tent and tables to shelter us all from the rain; very cozy. We were reunited with many family and friends that we haven't seen in years. The next day we cut a cake for my sister Cheeky’s 40th birthday and my father’s 70th. Monday I went to see my in-laws But by far, my favorite part of the whole trip was riding around with my sister Mary. I was reminded of all the beauty that is my hometown, Brooklyn , NY. I got to see a lot of familiar places that was once so mundane but today a thrill. I think we covered a lot of Brooklyn preparing for the party, I.e. BJs, Party City , Supermarkets, driving by the hospital both Mary and I worked at and driving by the hood. We talked and laughed so much; it felt like old times. And when the party was over and we were done with errands, we get up in the morning and have a few cups of coffee and talk then when the timing was right, I reached for a BUD and Mary reached for a Corona and we talked some more. To say that I miss her like crazy doesn ' t sum it up. Mary, I love you and miss you already and next time you go to BJs have a chicken pizza and think of me. We all came back from NY on the Wednesday, June 15th. Since I have been back I have developed a sinus infection and bronchitis but I am heavily medicated and on the road to recovery. Ahhhhhh, so many pictures, so little patience. My camera is not top notch and neither are my skills but still I snap away with a purpose. My purpose is to capture as many moments of my family, my children and especially the little man that fills my heart with unmeasurable joy. So picking out pictures to blog is very time consuming cause I want them all. Here are the few of my favorites that tell the story… Enjoy!

Ralphy

Raymond's Picture here

Corey

New York, here we come

We thought this sign was funny Bonnie and Clyde The work begins. Yep, that's Matt 1st of many breaks Saturday, setup begins Party Time, my cousin Ricky and his girlfriend 5 generations of firsborns Shauna came all the way from Long Island and so did Felicia Thriller

Abuelita from the Bronx

the A Team

Let's do the Grandpa dance

I love you guys

Party's over or is it?

game with titi

game with grandpa

Boriqua!

the hood

Marisol and Soliel

having fun with the camera timer

new york bagel with cream cheese, yumo

white castles galore

morning with sister mary

Chinese food from new york, delish

brother-in-law ray with his harley

twilight obsession

ok this is embarrassing

and right before heading to the airport

If you've made this far, thanks. This post took me all day. There are some missing pictures but I will update at a later time.

Have a blessed week.

Ray Ray's Graduation Party

2011-06-18T18:49:00.000-04:00

Corey's Graduation Party

2011-06-17T18:28:00.005-04:00

Cake by Chris Corey and his girlfriend Amy who also graduated

2011-06-05T07:18:00.002-04:00

So much to post but not enough time. For now just a few LOs.

2011-05-30T09:00:00.001-04:00

The Unknown Soldier

You need not ever know my name This unknown soldier seeks no fame I'm here to bring out thought from you May your heart see more than your view America, we marched with pride We gave our life, for you we died How well we knew the time might come When life could sound that final drum Please think of us as life moves on We tried so hard till that last dawn Do let our spirit fill the land Pass treasured freedom, hand to hand God blessed this country with such love Hold in your heart, abundance of And when you stand before my grave Think not of one, but each who gave ©2003Roger J. Robicheau

Congratulations Scotty McCreery!

2011-05-25T22:26:00.006-04:00

My idol vote from the beginning.

I am not a country music fan but...

Never fear, Jason is still my favorite idol

He's a Comedian

2011-05-22T22:23:00.003-04:00

Dominick's pants were falling so I asked to pull up his pants. Instead he takes them off and puts them on his head.

Corey's Prom

2011-05-18T07:05:00.002-04:00

My nephew and his girlfriend Amy.

Dear Lord, where does the time go?

Buzz Light Year to the Rescue

2011-05-15T16:45:00.004-04:00

Another busy weekend, swimming class, newphews prom (no pictures yet) beach... but this picture OMG! I love this picture TO INFINITY AND BEYOND!

Happy Mother's Day

2011-05-08T14:41:00.004-04:00

love the mason jars inspired by Vanessa's baby shower

I scanned the napkins and made the banner and tags using the same pattern.

I love when things match

Ready for breakfast with my daughter Our men hard at work making our favorites WE'RE WAITINGGGGGGG

Have a great week

Happy Birthday Cheeky a/k/a sis4

2011-05-06T07:18:00.004-04:00

Can you believe this girl is 40!

I love you. Have a great day!

Swimming Lessons, A Shower and a Tea Party

2011-05-01T20:48:00.011-04:00

My Saturday morning started with this face.

Finishing touches to a baby shower quilt Swimming Lessons

Beautiful Shower for Vanessa

Vintage Nesting theme. The details were awesome

Check out this blog for more great pics.

and a tea party for Princess Kayla for her 5th Birthday

Have a great week!

Happy Easter

2011-04-25T22:12:00.012-04:00

2011-04-22T08:00:00.000-04:00

"Verily I say unto thee, Today shalt thou be with me in paradise" (Luke 23:43).

Happy 1st Birthday Sophia

2011-04-17T09:38:00.016-04:00

Garden Theme Party.

Great job by Stephanie

Another amazing cake by Chris.

Buffet for Toddlers. The bowls were glued down to the table.

Just when you think it's over

Kayla's 5th birthday party invite. Can you believe it?

Lastly, it was one year ago that I started the Week in the Life project inspired by Ali Edwards. I thought I would stick with the same week and document the difference a year has made in my life. I will probably not do as many pictures but I will make it a point to post and document what I feel is important and relevant to the project. Today is Palm Sunday and the beginning of Holy Week. It is important for me to share and document our family traditions for my grandson and future grandchildren.

Have a blessed week.

Happy Birthday Ray Ray

2011-04-12T17:20:00.001-04:00

2011-04-10T10:08:00.006-04:00

"Where's DaDa?" First of many layouts for Matthew's highschool album

Have a great week.

2011-04-03T21:29:00.007-04:00

Guess who stopped by for a bubble bath

Guess who's turning one already, Princess Sophia

And sadly, I’m down to my last few pages of Breaking Dawn. I’m trying hard to drag it out but it’s not working out for me. I feel so sad. It’s so hard to know characters the way you get to know them reading these books and than just like that it’s over. Yea I know there still the movies to look forward to but it’s not the same. I will miss our lunch hours together, stolen moments before leaving to work and the hours together after work and of course our weekends by the pool. I’m not sure what I will do when it’s over. I guess I will have to read them again.

It's Official

2011-03-27T15:49:00.008-04:00

Pool season is here! Swimming lessons from Titi Cookie

and a LO have a great week

What a Weekend!

2011-03-20T11:00:00.007-04:00

Our busy weekend started on Friday with a visit from my uncle and aunt from NY and my uncle from Hollywood, Florida. I love these guys. It was such a great surprise.

On Saturday, we had Jada's birthday party with her friends and family.

It was a Drake vs. Justin theme with her favorite colors.

Another beautiful creation by Chris

We played games

the DJ

the birthday girl

we were visited by our beautiful cousins

It was an awesome weekend. I'm off to clean AGAIN!

Have a great week.

Happy 13th Birthday Jada

2011-03-15T09:38:00.001-04:00

Catching Up

2011-03-13T11:12:00.009-04:00

Now that the wedding is behind us, and the holidays, and the house is almost back to normal and my craft room is complete, I am working on my catch up list; mostly quilts that I started last year but mostly layouts from 2009 and 2010. Sadly, it is very hard since my laptop was stolen with a lot of my pictures. Thank God I uploaded some for printing and for my blog. But it has been a process. I have to find them and save them and than upload to print, OH VEY. But I figured before I fall too far behind on 2011…

This is a LO of Dominick and my niece Sophia.

LO about one of many sleepovers. Page 1

Page 2

Invite for my nieces birthday party

Have a great week.

My Cottage Retreat

2011-03-04T22:32:00.043-05:00

WARNING

If you hate pink, STOP!

SKIP THIS POST.

Brace yourselves people. It's really pink.

Here is the view as you enter. I took this picture at 8am in the morning.

Doesn't it look dreamy?

My cottage retreat measures 11.5X11.5 including the closet. The color scheme is pink, brown and cream with a touch of chrome here and there. The 35X60 white folding table was a gift from my daughter for Christmas from JoAnns. When I’m not scrapping I can use the same table to cut fabric. The white table skirt was made with the same fabric as the window curtains. Ready and waiting are all of my pink tools in a wooden box from Michaels and my Fiskars pink cutting mat and rulers. And when not in use my pink cutting rulers decorate my walls. Under the table I have two 3-drawer plastic carts one is for cards and the other has everything that I use to make my December Daily albums and Christmas stuff. The TV was a gift from darling husband who is always looking out for me.

Swag I made inspired by one I saw on Etsy. The vase was a Mother's Day gift from Chris and next to it is my altered atg gun. Jar and bling from Michaels This is my caddy. It cost me $5 at AC Moore and was the color inspiration. Close up of my atg gun. Adhesives 3 Tier basket from Lillian Vernon My tool box from Michaels On the left is a bakers rack that Fern brought home years ago. I used it in my last scrap/quilting space in the corner of my bedroom and was very functional. I love this piece of furniture. The baskets are from Walmart and fit perfectly. It holds my stickers, embellishments, and paper sets. I use the sides to hold the many camera, IPOD and printer cords, heating and hot glue guns and so much more. The box on top has all of my pictures which will be for future LOs. Can you see the book on top? It’s my story about me from my birth until now. Nahhhhhhhhhhhhhh, it’s about some princess named Maritza from the 20's that I purchased from Ebay. How cool is that book. I will use the pages for scrapping and later I will use the cover for something not sure what. The giant scissors and button are from JoAnns (button use to be yellow). On the right side is a plate rack that I use for embellishments that I like to display, i.e. flowers, bling, brads, ribbon, etc. My suede brown chair is in a perfect location for TV watching, sitting with my laptop or for some hand sewing. The pink suede ottoman is from Target and is great for propping my legs while I’m do all of the above. I use the storage for current magazines. The extra large ironing board is not just for ironing. I use it as an extra table when necessary or as a side table for my coffee and snacks. The cover is from Etsy and my pink iron from Target. My Cottage quilt was made with a collection of pink fabrics from Country Stitches Quilt Shop. I consider it a cherished keepsake of the times I shopped there, the many classes and later working at the shop. It's where I met some of my closest friends and the many fond memories created. The store is now closed; very sad. The back has brown fabric and quilted with pink butterflies to match my room.

The next wall has two bookshelves that we had since we moved to Florida. They have been painted and used in my son’s room, my daughter’s room, Family Room and now my room. I painted them the same color (cottage white by Behr) as the ceiling. The bottom coat is black so I plan on distressing when I get the nerve. On the top of these shelves is the 3 tier dessert tower from Homegoods that I used for my daughter’s wedding. It cost more than I wanted to pay but I knew that it would eventually find a home in my cottage so it was worth it. On top is my Slice, Cuttlebug styling a cozy from Etsy and my Bind-it-all. The 2nd and 3rd shelf hold my scrapbooking magazines and books. The Sterlite plastic shoe boxes hold all of my scrapbooking stuff, i.e. paint, flowers, ink, stamps, etc. and the 4 pink Iris storage boxes are for pages in progress. I’m trying really hard not to buy anything that I don’t have the room for. I really wanted curtains with roses but the room was sooooooo pink I decided to make white curtains instead and I’m glad I did. It lets me add more pink stuff without feeling like I’m in a bottle of Pepto-Bismol. It also does a great job filtering the sun. This room looks like a dream in the mornings.

Dessert Tower from Home Goods

This is my attempt at a shabby chic lamp. Not too shabby. LOL Dress form from TJ Max embellished with suede ribbon and Prima rose. Jar from Michaels, Frames from TJ Max use to be green. Cuttlebug cozy from Etsy. Here is my one and only Ikea shelf with 5 cubbies. I could have bought the larger unit but it was important to keep my extra large ironing board out and open. That was first on my wish list for when I had my own room and I knew I did not want to expand too much. The first box holds my unused chipboard mini albums, 2nd box holds completed mini albums and the 3rd holds miscellaneous stuff. The remaining cubbies hold my 12X12 and 8½X11 papers. I bought this from Ebay a while back. In my last space it was pink and now it's brown.

Bird and Cage from Michaels Souvenir apron from last year's scrapbook retreat made by Damaris' mom This is my quilting area where you can find my Horn sewing table which is the throne to my beloved Bernina sewing machine. One side of the closet holds my quilting books and magazines and on the other side is my Jason Castro shrine and some files. Meet Tiffany Sally Taylor doll, sole survivor from my youth. Fern added one shelf on top for another row of bags. I keep all of my fabric in bags which are sorted according to colors, quilts in progress, future quilts and left over fabric from past projects. The bags are from the very first quilt shop I visited and worked and is now closed. I don’t plan on expanding, so this works for me. I love that all of my quilting stuff is in one location. The corkboard is from Homegoods and the pink chair is from Ikea. Here Tiffany is modeling a Ritz original.

This is lace trim I purchased from Etzy. I trimed my table with it. $5 clock from Walmart with Heidi Swapp decal Don't remember where I got this and I'm not sure what I'm doing with it yet. Light Switch from Etsy Plastic $3 garbage can from Walmart with Heidi Swap decal. The fan was one of my mother’s day gifts from Fern. Of course, I would have preferred to have a chandelier but at my age the fan will serve me better. I love the butterfly chime that I picked up at JoAnns for a dollar. Watch me bling up my fan. If you look closely you can see that I already started.

My calendar

OK I'm done for now. It has been so much fun putting together and thanks to my loving husband for all his enthusiasm and help. He has played such a big part in this room. And I know that both of my guys secretly go into my cottage and wish it was theirs. LOL. I know it will be ongoing but for now it’s my cottage retreat.

If you made this far, thanks so much. Sorry if you got sick. LOL

The Cottage Movie

2011-02-27T11:49:00.001-05:00

Just a preview. Details to follow.

Dominick's Baptism Day

2011-02-20T06:51:00.002-05:00

Thanks Father George for a beautiful ceremony.

St. Andrew Church

Parents and Godparents Happy Baptized baby

Table Setting in the patio

Cake Table Cake made by Chris Table Deco

It was a perfect day for this wonderful occasion hand made by God.

A little trivia; Chris was baptized same day 23 years ago.

Have a wonderful week!

Happy 20th Birthday

2011-02-18T07:17:00.003-05:00

I can't believe that 20 years ago GOD blessed me with this guy.

My baby boy!!!!

Why so many spoons? What do you mean I have to share! Here is to at least 60 more : ) LOVE YOU FOREVER...

2011-02-12T07:52:00.004-05:00

This morning I woke up too early for a Saturday. So I made coffee, picked up a quilt and went outside to enjoy the rain as the sun rose. Just when there was enough sunlight I started to read TWILIGHT. YES, I’m a little behind with my reading. LOL. One of my INTENTIONS this year is to read at least 6 books. Back when I used to ride the subways, home was the first stop and work was the last stop. I used to read a lot. Some days I would read a whole novel in one day. Fast forward, today, I rather watch TV, flip through a magazine, quilt, scrap or watch somebody else scrap on YouTube. Just thought I share.

Game Night

2011-02-06T07:03:00.001-05:00

I am not a fan of football but if you can't beat them

you have no choice but to join them.

My first time making Chili. It was pretty darn good.

Not a good night for the Steeler Fans in this house. Sorry Danny : (

but how cool is this room? Until Fern can think of a new name presenting

temporally known as "THE CAVE" more pictures later

I heard the appetizers were good.

Unfortunately I didn't get pictures of the awesome food Chris made herself and the presentation was awesome. Hostess with the Mostest. Danny is one lucky guy!

Buffalo boneless chicken wings DOUBLE GOOD

Cheese dip GOOD

Mexican dip GOOD

Mozzarella sticks (she opened the box herself) GOOD and so much more

So many pictures, so little patience LOL

Have a wonderful week!

Dominick, Where are youuuuuuuu?

2011-01-30T18:13:00.005-05:00

There goes my monkey!

Finally put the finishing touches to the Christmas Quilt for the Sanchez Family. They got to use it for Christmas and I got it back to put the label and add some quilting. Dominick loves this quilt. He kisses the pictures of Rudolph. Can't wait for next year.

2011-01-23T21:02:00.005-05:00

Can you believe it, this guy is 14 months. He makes us laugh and makes us crazy. He is exhausting but you just can't seem to get enough. One of God's many blessings.

This quilt is a gift for a dear friend's granddaughter.

Only 20 more quilts and 100 more LOs to do and

I will be done with my 2011 "Things to do list".

No new discoveries this week.

Have a wonderful week.

2011-01-16T21:38:00.003-05:00

Pictures by the very talented Margie Bonilla

I discovered this week that I am a little bit of an "INTROVERT". Yes, my name is Maritza and I am an "INTROVERT". After reading this blog I started to get myself just a little bit more. I have always known that I was OK to be the way I am but others "you know who you are" try to make me feel bad about it like there was something wrong with me. According to About.com Guide definition of Introvert Contrary to what most people think, an introvert is not simply a person who is shy. In fact, being shy has little to do with being an introvert! Shyness has an element of apprehension, nervousness and anxiety, and while an introvert may also be shy, introversion itself is not shyness. Basically, an introvert is a person who is energized by being alone and whose energy is drained by being around other people. Introverts are more concerned with the inner world of the mind. They enjoy thinking, exploring their thoughts and feelings. They often avoid social situations because being around people drains their energy. This is true even if they have good social skills. After being with people for any length of time, such as at a party, they need time alone to "recharge." When introverts want to be alone, it is not, by itself, a sign of depression. It means that they either need to regain their energy from being around people or that they simply want the time to be with their own thoughts. Being with people, even people they like and are comfortable with, can prevent them from their desire to be quietly introspective. Being introspective, though, does not mean that an introvert never has conversations. However, those conversations are generally about ideas and concepts, not about what they consider the trivial matters of social small talk.

Have a blessed week,

2011-01-09T17:26:00.009-05:00

Nope not my room; I wish. Just some inspiration from this site.

I have a ceiling fan so this is not a possibility but how cool is this?

This week I discovered that I am not as weak as I thought. I went to Ikea today to buy a wall unit. It was heavy and too big for my car. I have to admit I leave the heavy stuff to my husband. I called him after only a few minutes of trying to get the dam thing to fit. But while it was ringing I asked myself "REALLY? You're going to make him drive 20 minutes? You are are going to WAIT 20 minutes. REALLY? Come on girl YOU CAN DO IT! And I did. Yep, all by myself. There was a man and his wife/girlfriend sitting in the car watching me struggle and he didn't even offer. You know what I did? Nope I didn't flip him. I prayed the day his wife needs help their is a gentleman close by. Anyway, great first week of 2011 for me, not so good for my boss. Prayers to her and her family. She lost her younger sister. Haven't spoken to her yet so I'm not sure why but it sure makes you extra grateful... I leave you with pictures Matt took of Dom Christmas morning. I broke my camera AGAIN! That's it I'm buying disposable cameras from now on. Yeah right! I'm in search for a MUCH cheaper camera, just in case.

Happy New Year and One Little Word

2011-01-01T20:20:00.001-05:00

My "One Little Word" is Discovery 1. something learned or found 2. process of learning something 3. process of finding something 4. somebody recognized as potentially successful 5. recognition of potential for success I'm so excited. Besides all my INTENTIONS (no more goals for me) i.e. loosing weight, getting fit and healthy, organizing, home improvements, I want to discover ME. Not the wife, mother, grandmother, sister, daughter JUST ME the girl. I will share my discoveries as I make them.

There are so many more but I think I will keep them to myself; just in case. LOL

BTW I will be changing my background from time to time until I can find something I can live with.

Happy New Year to all and God bless.

Goodbye 2010

2010-12-31T13:36:00.005-05:00

What a wonderful year. Not just because my daughter got married and now I have a wonderful new son and no stretch marks! And not just because my beautiful grandson turned one and has filled our year with nothing but joy. And not because we're down to just one tenant and Fern and I have more alone time.

It's because we are so blessed to have each other, our families, our health, our jobs, our home and we have today. I am thankful for today and everyday that we can wake up and say thank you God all over again. Thank you GOD for everything.

Happy New Year all. See you next year!

Merry Christmas

2010-12-25T13:39:00.005-05:00

I Celebrate the Day Lyrics by Reliant K With this Christmas wish is missed The point I could convey If only I could find the words to say to let you know How much you've touched my life because Here is where you're finding me In the exact same place as New Years Eve And from the lack of my persistency We're less than half as close as I wanna be And the first time that you opened your eyes Did you realize that you would be my Savior And the first breath that left your lips Did you know that it would change this world forever And the first time that you opened your eyes Did you realize that you would be my Savior And the first breath that left your lips Did you know that it would change this world forever And so this Christmas I'll compare The things I've felt in prior years To what this midnight made so clear That you have come to meet me here To look back And think that This baby would one day save me And the hope that That you give That you were born so I might really live To look back And think that This baby would one day save me… And the first time that you opened your eyes Did you realize that you would be my Savior And the first breath that left your lips Did you know that it would change this world forever And the first time that you opened your eyes Did you realize that you would be my Savior And the first breath that left your lips Did you know that it would change this world forever And I I celebrate the day That you were born to die So I could one day Pray for you to save my life

Little of this and a little bit of that

2010-12-19T12:36:00.000-05:00

Picture by Jada

My coworker/friend, Joan, purchased this beautiful Jim Shore Nativity. So for her birthday I made this table runner using the log cabin block. If you are familiar with Jim Shore, you know that his work is adorned with quilt patterns.

Below are a few inspiration pictures for "The Cottage". That's what I call my room.

I bought a white lamp for $10 at Target so I will see what I come up with. I am sure it will not look like this one, since it's a little over the top for me but it's beautiful.

I haven't decided if I'm purchasing from Etsy or going to attempt to make my own.

This is for Cricket but I'm ordering one for my Cuttlebug Etsy

And finally got a few items on my Etsy Shop

Have an awesome week.

Wedding After Party

2010-12-12T09:38:00.018-05:00

Almost forgot to post the Wedding After Party details. It took months of planning,

Hours on the computer special ordering stuff from table clothes to candy.

Chris loves turtles so I custom ordered these guys from Etsy.

The Dessert Station . My niece Stephanie, slaved for hours making mini cupcakes in orange, key lime and vanilla Other candy served was gumballs, sixlets, M&M, jelly beans, malted balls and milk chocolates

In my yard. We played the wedding ceremony OVER AND OVER

In the house. I covered every inch of the house with pictures of Danny and Chris.

Candles by me

The bar area

In the living room. This was special ordered from Etsy too!

Chris spent hours making these tissue balls. They were all over the house. I think she made at least 30!

Banner made by me!

Candles made by me!

Some of the appetizers

Compliments of Buffalo's

Personalized napkins

That's it for now. Later some more pictures of the after party.

Have a blessed week.

Happy Birthday

2010-12-11T20:25:00.002-05:00

to my honey!

Christmas Lunch

2010-12-05T20:57:00.008-05:00

Christmas lunch at Damaris'. In never fails, I dread the drive to Miami and end up so happy I did. Each and every time I get to meet up with wonderful ladies for great conversation, laughs and great food, pernil, pasteles, rice, yuca, oh my.

Dominick helping Grandma download pictures.

SLICE

2010-12-03T14:51:00.003-05:00

Check out Making Memories blog. Did I tell you guys how much I love my SLICE? Well I do.

December Daily

2010-12-01T09:00:00.003-05:00

It's that wonderful time of year and I will be doing my 3rd December Daily inspired by the amazing Ali Edwards. I will be using the same format I used for my 2009 December Daily. It was so easy and no stress. For the cover I used recycled packing board, Christmas quilting scraps and 3" red binder rings. For the inside I started with 8 - 12X12 doubled sided sheets from the Making Memories Tinsel pack purchased last year after the holidays, cut to 6X9 ended up with 32 pages. Just enough for 31 days (December 25th gets 2 pages). My numbers are from Pretty Little Studio, Plain Jane Tags and Labels. Here are some of my pages.

You get the picture. The pages repeat at page 16. I love it. It has a more grownup look to it this year. I will embellish as I go. I have a bucket just for Christmas stuff. Good luck and enjoy everyday.

Happy 17th Birthday Corey

2010-11-30T23:35:00.000-05:00

Week in the Life

2010-11-29T20:05:00.008-05:00

I've had my eye on Project Life for a while now but I just couldn't bring myself to purchase since I know myself well enough to know there was no way I was going to scrapbook 365 days. I think the system is brilliant and when it went on sale I had to have it but still no plan.

Until now. I will be dedicating this album to A Week in the Life inspired by who else? Ali Edwards. I haven't put it to paper yet because I knew that I wanted one album and that I would be participating a least once a year; maybe more. So I think this book is perfect. Just thought I share.

Thanksgiving

2010-11-28T08:14:00.010-05:00

My morning started with the parade

with these guysthis was our buffet this year

and our dessert table Our table settings We had fried turkey this year. I was a little skeptical

but he did it! and what a beautiful job

with a little help from these guys

mom made the rice

titi angelita made the ham and yuka, cindy made the penil and chris made the potatoes and stuffing

It was so much we had to start in the kitchen a small spoon just wouldn't do It was a great holiday attended by 21 family and friends. Not as big as last year but close.

Happy Thanksgiving and welcome Christmas season.

Happy 23rd Birthday

2010-11-23T22:34:00.000-05:00

I love you!

Dominick's First Birthday Roundup

2010-11-21T15:16:00.011-05:00

Dominick's birthday roundup was a success. We had a barbecue with the fixins, games, and of course the cake. And what an amazing cake.

Precious Moment. How cute is this guy. Can you see Woody?

This is "Andy's Bed" made by my very talented daughter. She continues to amaze me with her hidden talents. She made everything but the little guys. How cool.

Cupcake tower made by Stephanie

mmmmmm can't wait for my birthday,,,

The Roundup

more toys from Godfather and Godmother

Musical Chairs

Pie Eating Contest

Pinata????

WOW candy

And until the next birthday, have a wonderful blessed week.

More Wedding Details

2010-11-21T11:30:00.033-05:00

The Guests

The Groom and Best Man The Sister

Brother and Mother of the Bride

The Maid of Honor The Son escorated by the Cousin The Flower Girl The Bride and the Father

Reading by Cousin Samantha Poem by Cousin Brandon

The Vows

First Kiss

First Dance

Father/Daughter Dance The Show

The Speeches

The Toast

Mai Kai

The Reception

PuPu Platter

The Cake

12 Months

2010-11-18T22:24:00.009-05:00

Happy First Birthday Dominick. We love you and are so blessed to have you in our lives. I couldn't imagine my life without you. I smile just thinking about you. God bless you my love.

For Dom's first birthday, I left work early, met Chris and Dom at the Mall. First stop was Gymboree for some winter outfits next to pick up his first Build a Bear then to Sears for his birthday pictures.

It ended at Chris and Danny's apartment for birthday cake with the family. Danny had to work; missed him.

And a flashback of the past year...

Still too busy

2010-11-14T11:07:00.014-05:00

but at least I'm getting something done. My boss asked me to do an album for one of our nurse managers that retired; almost done.

I moved in even though they are not done painting. Matthew primed and my son-in-law painted the closet but everyone is so busy with work and their own lives but soon... Chris and Danny's dining room; I LIKE

and more wedding details.

Pictures taken by the very talented Kyra Diaz.

2010-11-07T20:09:00.007-05:00

Another busy week; let me splain… Chris and Danny are settled and happy. We went shopping the other day for dining room table and also ended up buying a TV entertainment center and a chair for my new craft room. That’s right you heard me, I have a room. Mom has left the building. So here's the chair.

My mom finally got her apartment. I started the move Friday and finally finished Sunday. I couldn't imagine that settling one woman in a studio apartment could take so much work and time but by Sunday, pantry, kitchen, bathroom, closet and room were furnished and fully stocked and loaded. As exhausting as it was, I had a ball shopping and decorating her place. If only I had the time and energy to do my place. My house is still a mess. Matt’s stuff is in the family room while he paints his room from black to green for me because his room will be my room and Matt is moving into mom’s room which was Chris’ old room which should have been my room but I lost the fight. Anyway... It’s just the 3 of us and my blind deaf old dog. The bathroom that use to house 4 toothbrushes has one lonely brush. It will take some time to get use to but I think we’ll be OK.

I leave you with a few pictures of some of the details of the wedding

The place #'s The tables The Centerpieces

The favor tower

Place setting candies

Have a wonderful week

What a Week

2010-10-31T14:11:00.020-04:00

Dominick and Sophia's First Halloween. Funny this picture reminds me of a similar picture of RayRay and Chris of their first Halloween.

Howdy, Howdy, Howdy

Still cleaning

And while I was hard at work trying to get my house back to normal, I catch this guy trying to escape

And this girl getting away with our left over booze

After hours of work, we head off to Chris, Danny's and Dominick's new place.

Everybody had to work, even this guy

Danny and couisin Brandon hard at work

in the middle of painting and setting up their place

Chris cooks her favorite meal, wing stew with white rice and Cesar salad

It was awesome! I wonder who taught her how to cook?

And while I was enjoying one of the many greatest moments of my life,

on Saturday, October 23rd, Country Stitches Quilt Shop closed it's doors for the last time. This place literally changed my life. Before quilting, I took care of my family amd the house, never to have time just for me. Here I met great friends. We found each other while working and decided that working together was not enough so we started to meet once a month and then every Friday. We'll find other place to shop and to meet but this place...

will be greatly missed. What great memories. Thank you.

Mr. & Mrs. Sanchez

2010-10-24T22:15:00.002-04:00

The Bachelorette Party

2010-10-22T19:42:00.001-04:00

I will spare you the details but we had a blast. It started at PF Changs, then Blue Martini, and into the limo to LaBare and then some clubs. It was a longgggg night but so much fun