a birthday worthy of big celebration!

Every birthday is worth celebrating, but especially when you hit landmark numbers. This Wednesday, my amazing Grandpa (John), will turn 90! I love him so much! He was born and raised in Italy and moved to the U.S. when he married my beloved Grandma (Celeste).  He spent many years as a Barber, and my Grandma as an English teacher. My Grandma passed about ten years ago, and Grandpa gets very teary-eyed just talking about her till this day. They shared such an amazing love that I aspire to share with my husband. Grandpa still loves giving anyone who visits a free haircut, hehe. Last time we were visiting, I took some pictures of his stuff. There is nothing like the organization of my Grandpa- this too, I can only aspire to achieve. Enjoy, and Happy Early Birthday Grandpa!

Grandpa's bag o'tricks

A glass container of rocks from Napoli, from a visit in '88.

Grandpa grows his own strawberries, too! Is there anything this man can't do!?

Lastly, the obligatory picture of Grandpa cutting Dad's hair. 

more presents!

Jill clearly wants me to gain a couple pounds... ONE POUND of party mix (completely deadly to have at my desk), three packs of the world's BEST gum, Trident Cool Citrus, and a year subscription to Communication Arts! What a pal-she always gives the best presents! Thanks Jill E. Beans!

birthday present

Who loves early birthday presents?! ME! My Mother-in-Law picked the perfect gift at the Coach store for me. It's a gorgeous Saffron yellow pretty bag. How thoughtful <3

field trip!

Loving this three day weekend! It's so sad it has to end! On Sunday, Mike and I went to Grounds for Sculpture for an early birthday celebration. We had the perfect weather, and it was so calming to just walk around and enjoy nature... and sculptures. Here's a peak of our day.

(taken with my new Diana lens! LOVE it!)

so pretty, they were setting up a wedding around here

there were paths and trails to follow all around the park... i would consider this hiking (as someone who generally is always in arm's distance of a computer.)

Mike came across a tree stump that looked like a heart, what a romantic!

very cool sculpture that looks like it could give you bad dreams for at least a couple of nights