There are no words to describe how proud I am of this kid. Thursday was my son’s first volunteer job at City Harvest repacking bags of carrots in the mission to feed New Yorkers Facing Hunger. In just his box along with two other volunteers made 278 (maybe more) carrot bags. I believe in total the amazing volunteers packed a total of 8,000 + bags in one shift. City Harvest made it easy, lively, and exciting to be a part of this community of volunteers being a part of the mission.
We are looking forward with much excitement to be a part of more events through City Harvest in there amazing mission for all New Yorkers facing hunger.
To see my son examining each carrot before packing them made my heart so happy.
Way to go Giovanni, all the volunteers, and City Harvest for making all of this possible. We are grateful for you heart, mission, and services.
They even had music and a huge disco ball shining the light throughout the building.
With all the Mother’s Day wishes to and from, heartfelt calls and messages, and family dinner time I missed the time to say a little something about the two moms in my life.
They are each a beacon of light. The support they provide is all I need to get by.
Mommy, I thank God everyday that he chose you to be my mommy. He knew you were all I needed for all the right reasons. Whether it was to vent, cry, understand the pain of loss, and that relationships end. You were there for each emotion I experienced and continue to. When my heart felt like I wasn’t meant to be happy or loved, you helped me see the way a bit clearer. That all my unanswered prayers weren’t to hurt me or that I didn’t deserve that love, it was because it wasn’t my time. God had a plan for me and I needed patience (which is always hard for me) because it will all come to light and understanding why my time wasn’t the right time.
You put up with me when I didn’t understand your love. When I was stubborn and tough. You were there with me for protection and forgiving. I didn’t know how important you truly were and how much I didn’t realize you would end up being my best friend.
I’m so blessed that as I grew I knew you were mine. My mommy, my bestfriend, my half of strength. You taught me all about love and that if I found that one, love would be unconditional as your love for me has no end. You are my angel on earth and always my guiding light to help me find my way. You are the one that makes things alright with just your hug. Being in your presence gives me the happiness I sometimes miss.
To my gifted mom Mia, you always hear the horror stories about mother-in-laws from friends and family. As you hear the stories you start to shrink in size. But I wouldn’t ever know how that feels. From day one I knew the person you were. I felt welcomed and loved. Our connection grew strong and I couldn’t believe how we just met.
I felt like I was a part of you for much longer. You are always there to listen and if I can’t find the words you help them come out. Thank you for gifting me your boy and for always, no matter what, being there to make the important things truly matter. And the not so important things just fade. You pulled me up from under the stress that overwhelms me. You give of yourself so effortlessly. You are love!
They say you have one mom that is truly yours. One mom that knew you from within. But I am lucky to have two. Maybe you didn’t grow me or hear my heartbeat from inside but you hear it now and always have. Thank you for loving me as your own.
I am blessed with two strong, beautiful, kind, encouraging, amazing moms and I can’t imagine my life without you there.
I hope you both know that you are celebrated every day, not just on Mother’s Day. As your lives are our gifts.
And just like that, another year has passed honoring our miracles, Giovanni and Isannah, as we walked in the March for Babies.
The walk was last Sunday, and although we knew rain was on the way, the heart and dedication of this team never wavered. No one let the weather stop them. Instead, we showed up together, proudly wearing our new team shirts celebrating Gio and Isa’s Miracles.
These shirts felt especially meaningful this year, as they were made with love by my dear friend Caroline at Her Way To Slay. Her kindness and support were with us every step of the way as we walked with pride.
We arrived later than usual and were immediately met with volunteers taking down signs. For a moment, I worried we’d missed it, that the walk had already ended. It’s normally so full of faces and clusters of people, the kind of crowd you have to weave your way through, but we didn’t let that stop us.
The wind pushed hard against us as the rain came in fits, sharp and spitting. At times, my hair whipped across my face so fiercely I could barely see the people just ahead. Still, we kept moving, carried forward by shared jokes, loud laughter, and something deeper that kept us going.
And then I looked around at the familiar faces. The people who have walked beside us for 15 years and I knew, without question, that everything was going to be okay.
I’m humbled by your kindness, generosity, and support.
Gio and Isa’s Miracles is still active. It’s not too late to donate.
There are many good days in the NICU, but yesterday was the absolute best and I was blessed to be a part of every moment.
Karter came into the NICU as a tiny little peanut, fighting bravely through so many challenges. Each day he grew bigger and stronger. While there are always setbacks, new decisions, and fresh beginnings in this journey, he never wavered. He showed us all that he was ready to make his way in this unsteady world.
Yesterday, Karter became a NICU graduate, a big, beautiful, healthy 22 week old boy.
I was blessed to cuddle him throughout his time at NYPBM whenever I was on shift, including his graduation day. I was able to steal one last beautiful cuddle, holding him until he fell asleep comfortably in my arms, saving all his energy for his big celebration.
There were interviews, speeches, and nurses and staff stopping by to share in the excitement. We even had Santa spreading good cheer and well wishes.
Everyone was unbelievably happy and just a little sad, as Karter has been part of our NICU family for six months. He is loved by so many and he has become a permanent resident in my heart.
Then it was time for the big moment, Karter wore his graduation cap and made his way out the NICU doors. We rolled out the red carpet, lined up on each side with pom-poms in hand and golden crowns on our heads. “Celebration” by Kool & The Gang played as we cheered his name and danced alongside mom and Karter on their walk out of the NICU. His doctors were moved to tears, and I had to turn away more than once to catch my own. When Karter’s mom began to speak, there wasn’t a dry eye. She is an amazing, kind, and truly beautiful mother, and Karter is blessed in every way.
As the cheers slowly faded, hugs were shared. J, M, and I helped mom gather six months’ worth of NICU belongings and said our “see you later” instead of goodbye. The three of us walked upstairs, chatting about the day and the memories we’ll carry with us forever.
This was a day I truly needed, and I am so grateful to have been part of this journey.
Every year around this time our block comes together and makes magic happen for the kids and families. This is my favorite time of year. This is when I can get my family together and all our friends. The kids invite all those that mean something to them. They have friends from different times in their life which makes it extra special.
It’s really a time that we come together and catch up. Lot’s of hugs are given and received and the laughter we hear echoes all around us. It’s sharing yummy food together along with some wine or drinks.
This year we had a special guest, my dearest friend Caroline and her crew had their grand opening on our block. Just a – lil snack @just_a_lil_snack on Instagram brought ice cream, snow cones, mini pancake snacks, block party toys, and so much more. It was a treat for all big and small.
This is when Summer comes to an end and we welcome Fall.
Thank you to all those who came out to celebrate with us. Thank you for being part of our tradition.
It’s always the hardest knowing this day would come again, just as it has every year. There is no escaping it. The weight of it. The ache it brings. The reminder of the loss we endured, both as individuals and as a collective.
So many lives were directly impacted on this day. And even for those who weren’t there, the trauma reached far and wide through television screens, through stories told by others, through the silence that followed, and through the cries that echoed across the world.
For me, this day took someone I grew up with. A sweet friend from elementary school. She was my penpal after my family moved following our sixth-grade graduation. Though distance separated us, our bond remained. Among the small group of us who stayed connected from those early years, her absence will always be deeply felt. That circle of childhood friends still holds a special place in my heart, and some of my strongest friendships remain rooted in those innocent days.
Twenty-four years ago, the world changed. A tragedy unfolded that would shape our collective memory forever. And in those first moments, through the dust, the fear, and the chaos, something else emerged: UNITY and LOVE.
For a moment, the divisions of race, religion, and politics faded into the background. We came together not as strangers, not as separate nations, but as one people. We became love. We held space for one another. We prayed as one. We cried for lives taken far too soon. We grieved the broken families, the empty offices that no longer stand, the missing names never to return home. And we still do. I miss that world. We are all aching for our current beings, here, and now.
We were all affected. We still are and will continue to be.
And though time moves on, healing is still a process.
This day will never be forgotten. And neither will the people we lost.
Let us honor them by continuing to love one another, by showing up with empathy, and by remembering that, despite everything, we found light in the darkest of times.
This is an emotional journey. One filled with chapters that began long before the first day of school. Our path started in the most unbelievable way. From the tough, fighting days during pregnancy to time spent in the NICU and everything that followed… and look at us now.
You’ve grown into such beautiful individuals, each with your own strengths, quirks, and personalities that shine so brightly. I remember it like it was yesterday, preparing you for preschool. You walked in without hesitation, without needing an ease-in period. Just a hug, a kiss, and a smile and you were off. Excited for the day, for your teachers, for your new friends. The very next morning, you were ready to do it all again.
I have so many pictures to remember those moments to freeze time, if only for a second.
And now, here we are. Two high school students. I’m still in shock that we’ve arrived at this chapter. This time, no pictures you shy away from the camera as you step through those doors. A quiet confidence. A new kind of independence.
A new chapter begins as another quietly closes. But not completely, the friendships, the memories, the lessons, they’ll always be with you. Just like the best books, you can reread those pages anytime for comfort or reflection, but the story keeps moving forward.
And you’ve got this.
I am so deeply humbled, grateful, and proud to be your mother.
**To the many parents, caregivers, and families,
Good luck with the new school year! May it bring fresh beginnings, exciting moments, growth, confidence, and above all, safety. We’ve made it this far, and we’ll keep moving forward together.
Saying goodbye to 2024 and reflecting on the ups and downs that came with it. In the new year we must approach life with love, kindness, and a sense of urgency, not putting off experiences and connections due to fear or routine. This mindset can help us make the most of the time we have and can create meaningful memories with those around us.
As we look forward to the new year, I’m hoping for more kindness, love, laughter, and opportunities to make memories with loved ones. It’s a great reminder that life is precious and should be lived to the fullest.
Life can take us in many different directions, but it’s how we approach those twists and turns that matters. With love and kindness, we can cultivate a sense of purpose and fulfillment, even in the face of uncertainty.
I try every day to see the good that surrounds me but sometimes my mind gets cloudy and pulls me in a direction I fear will bring me back to the sadness I carry with me.
This past year had beautiful memories but right at the end my faith was tested again. I entered 2025 with heartbreak.
New year’s started with a loss so great my mind still can’t comprehend. My beautiful, kind, full of life, make things happen, friend was taken too soon.
I met DQ when I first moved back to NY and walked into my first job. He welcomed me with nothing but kindness. He created an environment that was scary for me, with nothing but joy. He took my fear and turned it around allowing me to open up to the possibilities it could bring. He always included me and made sure I was comfortable. He made me laugh so much. When I was with him I knew things would always be great.
His was a friendship that blossomed through the years and he became a staple in my life. From our work Thursday night drinks to our talks that always ended with my cheeks hurting from laughter, he was that friend you needed in your life.
I will be grateful to you always and for being able to see you and hold your hand as I said goodbye.
Dearest DQ,
I want to tell you, thank you! I hope you truly felt how much your friendship means to me. Thank you for the many laughs, unfaltering friendship, pop in notes, but more importantly your kindness and heart. Always full of life, joy, and the many adventures you shared with all of us. I am forever grateful that I had the chance to hear you once more. Your voice was soft and kind. You said it was ok. You were so brave until the very end.
Praying all the amazing memories we all shared with you helps with the everyday knowing you are at peace. 24+ years was too little but ever so grand.
Life really does have a way of grabbing you and flinging you off the ride from time to time. It’s up to you to see how you land each time you are tossed.
There was a lot that was going on these past few weeks.
Those who are not from the New York area might not understand this but the High School process for 8th graders and their family is truly a nightmare. Not only are there deadlines that need to be met, there’s a lottery system that tells you what place you are in. Who gets lucky to choose their top 5 high schools and guarantee a spot in their top choices. Others aren’t so lucky, just like us. Both my kids received the bottom 3% number which means no matter how unbelievably amazing my kids’ grades are they will probably not get any of their top selections. Thank goodness for specialized testing, auditions, and screened HS. Keeping our fingers crossed that any of those work in our favor. Because fear of placement in HS has forced us into the private school route. That was even more stressful because now comes essays, questions for both kids and parents. Interviews, another test for private school entry, and much more.
All this was going on during my dad’s emergency hospital visit and 7 days that followed in the hospital. It was scary but thankfully things got better and he was able to get back home. Not much I can say about that at this time or my eyes will continue to cry like a fountain’s water quickly falling.
Let’s jump into a happier moment.
The Nutcracker.
My daughter dedicated her weekends and time to Nutcracker rehearsals. Her motivation and drive inspires us all. This is the time of year we all look forward to. It’s the time of year when family and friends near and far come together to see her shine on stage and that, she sure did!
What a magical experience to witness each year. With each dance that makes its way on the stage I’m always taking back to where and when it all started. Her first role, a mouse, in the Nutcracker is etched in my memory forever.
I could picture it like it was just yesterday. She was the cutest little thing. Now each time the music begins I get butterflies knowing the mice will come on stage. That’s when a tear escapes my eyes because all I see is her. Tiny little legs performing and jumping on the back of the soldier. I see her. I will always see her first.
And now to what we were all anxiously waiting for. The music begins to play and the beautiful lights light up the stage. The Windmaidens flow gracefully on stage. Eyes focusing on each maiden until I see her. There she was moving about so flawlessly. She’s there. I look around me to make sure all our guests know she is there too. They are all staring at her with joy in their eyes and happiness on their face. My eyes quickly return to her. I watched as she brought me in with her hypnotic moves. It was so beautiful. She was lithely flowing. It was mesmerizing.
And then she gracefully échappé right off the stage. I can watch that performance over and over, and I have. I couldn’t go to just one show. I had to go to several. Afterall, she did perform in all shows from Friday to Sunday.
But that’s not all. There was one extra special performance. Performance 2 where she was not only a Windmaiden but also a Spanish Attendant. Three girls on stage and my beautiful radiant girl was one. Her moves were faster. Her grand jeté was breathtaking. My girl was flying through the air. She flew higher than anything I saw.
That was it. That finally did me in. I could feel my lids actually swelling. Trying so hard not to cry but I just let the happiness take over. It was beautiful. She was beautiful. The moment was beautifully felt by all.
The final show. The applause begins again and only gets louder as the curtains close and reopen once more. What a grand last night. My husband and I made our way to the foyer so that we could finally see our girl and take her in for the biggest hug.
It truly has been an amazing surprise birthday gift while celebrating our 16th anniversary a little early. We explored the Greek Island Kefalonia where we stayed for the first part of our trip. The beaches were breathtakingly stunning. We drove and visited towns along the island.
Blue water layering color beaches with mountains as backdrops, some had towns in the distance, and some your view was different shades of the perfect blues I’ve ever seen.
Too many beaches to name but our favorites were Makris Gialos and the most beautiful beach yet was Myrtos. You can find the Myrtos Cave located on the beach and it’s easy to walk and swim through. The sun peaking through the cave allowed the blues of the water to light up in the most mystical way. This was the first Blue Cave we experienced in Greece. The next two were Drogarati and Melissani Caves.
Drogarati Cave which was discovered over 300 years ago when a strong earthquake caused a collapse that revealed the cave’s entrance. The formations of stalactites and stalagmites are truly remarkable and definitely worth walking through. The limestone felt cold and wet to the touch.
Finally but not least, one of the most visited is the Melissani Cave. “The roof of one of the halls caved in centuries ago, letting sunlight filter in. When the sun is right overhead at noon, the sunlight hitting the turquoise blue waters creates a magical illusion and the whole Cave of Melissani suddenly feels lit with blue light.”
Mythhas it that the cave was named after the nymph Melissanthi who committed suicide by jumping from the top into the cave because God Pan did not reciprocate her love. Aw, love can make you do some crazy things.
In the past you were also able to walk up the steep hidden path leading up to the cave overhead to view the cave from above. I was told it was the most amazing view to see the lit up electric blue waters and formations from the top looking in. Sadly, a person decided it would be a good idea to jump off the top into the cave and ruin it for the rest as it will be permanently closed from above viewing. Maybe in time that will change but for now it stands.
The towns filled with colors, from homes to flowers, winding tiny roads, and the love of a community are always appealing in their own way.
I’m always amazed and humbled by the towns we see and the people that welcome us. Being a part of their culture and town for just a day does something for your soul. The kindness we received and the welcoming into family owned restaurants as if we too were part of the family will always be carried in my heart.
From towns like Argostoli, Fiscarko, Assos, Sami, and more. We’ve visited a few.
We ended our last night in Kefalonia at the Olive Lounge Restaurant & Bar at St. Georges Castle in Argostoli. This family owned most enchanting place was truly magical. From the atmosphere, gazing views of the town and water, location, and staff, not to forget the owner’s special attention to each guest blew me away. Each item we ordered was a burst of flavor and colors in your mouth. The meals were like no other but the owner Liana who shows genuine gratitude and love made the last night in Kefalonia complete. We met her sister Maria Tsimbourla who was just as lovely and had her contemporary artwork displayed throughout the restaurant. They are two of the nicest, kindest, humbled women you will meet.
As our first part of the trip has ended and the next just beginning I will be taking all the love, electric blues of the beaches, and the memories we made with us.
And now the ferry. My fear of being on a ferry for more than 30 minutes was getting stronger as the departure time was growing near. It was our way to travel from Kefalonia to Zakynthos. A special ferry to carry our luggages to the next island took about 4 hours. I hate to admit this but my stomach was turning from nerves and my anxiousness was on high alert as we pulled away from the island and into the amazing blue waters. As the motor picked up I looked into the water and felt the cool mist hit my face. My body began to relax. Seeing things all around me from a pirate boat, yachts, sailboats, and the amazing island shapes around us, relaxed me even more. I was taking it all in and remembering that soon we would be on land to enjoy another island.
As our next destination came into view the excitement hit me all over again and I forgot the fear I felt in the beginning. It was beautiful and I knew this would be another memorable experience. Making our way off the ferry we were immediately greeted by our express rental car contact. She was lovely and the process went seamlessly. Keys in hand and we were off to Lesante, our next home for a short while.
From the moment we walked through the doors the warm welcome and kindness engulfed us. I knew this was going to be another memorable place and it was. The beauty that surrounded us on this trip could not be put into words just felt and seen.
Our room was surrounded by a vineyard. Gardens growing their own fruits and vegetables for serving and meals. We were surrounded by life all around us. It was a magical property.
Right before our time in Greece ended we were able to experience the island and beaches from a different angle, the water. That’s right, I said it. We saw the island in all its glory from the water. This time I wasn’t as frightened. I knew this was the only way to check off items from my bucket list.
We were able to see the electric blue light from beneath the water in the caves. One cave had the biggest clams I’ve ever seen. From there the boat picked up speed. Cool blue water softly sprayed our face and cooled us as we made our way to Shipwreck Beach known as Navagio Beach. This was a big check off my list and I was super excited.
This is an exposed cove, which is also referred to as “Smugglers Cove,” on the coast of Zakynthos, in the Ionian Islands of Greece.
Story goes that the ship was carrying contraband heading from Turkey for Italy when a storm hit. The ship’s engine blew and the visibility was almost nonexistent. While the ship ran aground in the cove, the crew abandoned her to evade arrests and punshipment from the Navy. The only way to visit Shipwreck Beach is by boat.
As we moved away from Shipwreck our driver Leo brought us to a secluded little beach of our own. We jumped off the boat into the water and enjoyed a swim as the boat anchored until we were done. We swam to the beach to explore a bit before swimming back to our boat. Anchors pulled up and the motor began. The cool blues splashed us again which made my cheeks tingle and I couldn’t help but smile. Once we were further in the deep the motor turned off and we coasted for a while. I looked out and couldn’t believe the beauty around me. The sun was blistering but the breeze off the water made it just perfect. The warmth on my face and the beauty that surrounded us couldn’t have made that moment any more remarkable but then I looked to my left, and there he was. The man that made this all possible. My life’s partner. My soulmate. I couldn’t believe we were there.
It was one of my wishlist gifts. What a way to celebrate my 50th. What a way to celebrate us soon to be 16 years married.
This island exploration was coming to an end and we had to say our goodbyes. Although a goodbye was in order, what we experienced here will forever be with us as we continue our journey.
I do believe a little part of me remains in the blue caves and a little all around the islands. That’s my way of always staying close.
Ευχαριστώ και αντίο Ελλάδα!
One last surprise before we returned home. A quick stop in London. With our plane connecting in London but it was going to be too long of a wait. Asher decided one more surprise was in order. I knew we were staying over but didn’t know what the rest of the surprise would be until the taxi pulled in front of the hotel and I was let out of the taxi. At first I hadn’t noticed where exactly we were until I looked down at the welcoming mat and immediately popped my head up to the front of the building. I was in such a surprise I couldn’t believe it. I immediately turned to Asher with the biggest smile on my face while my eyes sparkled with excitement.
We were staying at The Cadogan in London.
You may be thinking it’s just another hotel and in fact it is to most but to me it’s a bit more.
A short story, if I am capable of that.
Many years ago before my twins were born I worked for a hedge fund in the city for quite a very long time. When we opened an office in London, anyone who flew there stayed at The Cadogan. I stayed there a few times when I was in London on business. But sadly Asher and I were never in London at the same time. I was unhappy the last time I stayed at The Cadogan because my stay had to be extended and I was sad to be away even longer. I remember that day with my eyes tightly closed, I wished that he would be there with me. I thought my wish would never come true until now.
He actually made it possible for us to be in London at the same time and together at The Cadogan.
The Cadogan. I couldn’t believe it. Here we were standing in the lobby of the hotel sharing our story with the front staff. Sharing our memories of the hotel but sad all the best features were no longer there. During Covid the hotel shut down and was purchased by Louis Vuitton and renovated. The one of a kind oldest round elevator that stood in the middle of the lobby was gone.
Things definitely changed but the feeling I felt looking around the lobby and finding the man I promised to love for the rest of my life remained the same. The love I felt for him at that moment will be the imprint in my heart that I needed.
He did all of this for me. He researched. He peaked at my Greece wishlist. He made many of my wishes come true. He did all of it to make my 50th birthday the most memorable birthday I will ever experience. He made it a memory not for the fear I felt of turning 50 but for the beautiful loving moments that lead me here. Lead us here.
