Life is Like a Blog of Chocolates...

The Summer Wind

2011-08-15T19:11:00.004-04:00

Summer is wrapping up and I am preparing like crazy. September brings a lot of big changes for Gabriel and I, as I start a new career (working as the Media Specialist for Oak Street Elementary School in Lakewood) and Gabriel starts daycare and being away from me for the first time for more then an hour or two. He just turned 9 months old on Sunday and although he still is a little peanut and has no teeth, he started trying to talk, standing more, pulling himself up, almost crawling, and using his hands better then ever! Every development makes us smile and he brings joy to everything we do. I hope he continues to grow as strong in daycare and that the time we have together doesn't feel rushed or limited in anyway. Hoping for the best...

If I could save time in a bottle...

2011-07-18T14:33:00.004-04:00

Where does the time go? Here it is July 18th and I have been enjoying every minute of every day with my little peanut, Gabriel! BUT, it'll be back to the drawing board very soon, as I will be returning to work this September and I can't even think about just how very close that actually is. Gabriel was baptized in May on Mother's Day, we had some great pictures taken of him at Target that month, and we went to Grounds For Sculpture on my birthday. We went upstate to Gabriel's Nonna and Nonno's house twice, including Father's Day, and my mother came to visit for Gabriel's first Fourth of July. We had a few trips to the Beach in Sea Girt and Gabriel has been enjoying the pool at Paul and Jen's and Julie's with his friend Aidan. We don't want the Summer to end! I am hoping Gabriel will enjoy making new friends at Daycare in the fall, but it'll be very hard nonetheless.

Gabriel's 1st Easter!

2011-04-23T22:43:00.007-04:00

Happy Easter Gabriel! I know you won't yet understand the joy of Easter, Easter baskets, the Easter Bunny, and all that Easter means, but being that you smile everyday, I'm sure you'll enjoy it just the same. We are so truly blessed to have you in our lives and I love you more then these words could ever sum up. We'll be spending Easter at your Nonna and Nonno's house in Staten Island. Your first visit to the city where Daddy is from. Then we move on to May. Isabella and Annabella (a.k.a. Girlies) are making their first Holy Communion next weekend and then the following weekend is Baptism time! We've chosen your Uncle Paul and Aunt Jen as your God Parents, and I know they will be there for you to turn to anytime you need to. May is also Mother's Day, my birthday, and the month your dad and I got married. But with you now in my life this will be the best May ever!

Happy Easter!

Boppy and Bumbo

2011-03-12T20:12:00.002-05:00

Just had to post these...

In Like a Lion, Out Like a Lamb...

2011-03-01T18:21:00.004-05:00

Here we are in March already! If I was planning to return to my job at Rutgers, I'd be going back already. I can't imagine leaving Gabriel with strangers so soon, which is one of the reasons why we are going to bite the bullet and have me stay home with him until I find a job in the library field. I will be hoping to return to work in September. In the meantime, we'll be poor, but it's worth every second I spend with my son. My mother is coming to visit this month again, Isabella and Annabella turn 8 (a reminder of how fast time goes by), and if the Groundhog got it right last month, the weather should begin to warm up soon enough to spend more time outdoors. Gabriel has been great during our trips shopping and to the park, which makes me look forward to taking him out more and more. He's still sleeping through the night, smiling all the time, and getting strong enough to hold his head up more. He amazes us every second of every day.

Beautiful Boy

2011-02-10T17:37:00.003-05:00

"Each day of our lives we make deposits in the memory banks of our children."

~Charles R. Swindoll, The Strong Family

Gabriel will be 3 months old on Valentine's Day! He recently started sleeping through most of the night and smiles at us constantly. His reflux is far from gone or over, but is getting better and I am planning to begin venturing out with him real soon. Being the control freak that I am, it will take a lot of letting go and just allowing and accepting what will happen. He's in control now, so I have to let go. We've been couped up in the house due to his size, fear of germs, and of course the torturous winter weather we've had this year. But, it's supposed to be a bit warmer this week so first Carmine and I will give it a shot together by heading to the mall or some place like that and then later in the week I'll pick a place for just Gabriel and I to go. He's a little over 9 pounds now, which is quite an accomplishment from the 4 pounds he came home at 3 months ago. I'm so proud of him...already.

My son still amazes me every time I look at him, he's beautiful, he's perfect, and he's mine!

2010-12-21T17:35:00.002-05:00

Gabriel James Anzalone

Welcome Gabriel!

2010-12-21T16:48:00.005-05:00

Season's Greetings!!!

Christmas came early this year for Carmine and I as our beautiful son, Gabriel James Anzalone, arrived on Sunday, November 14, 2010 (at 10:24 a.m.). He was a month premature and spent 6 days in the NICU before coming home. He weighed only 4 lbs. 8 oz. at birth and came home only 4 lbs. 1 oz.! He's the love of my life (my little Munchkin Man) and the best gift we've ever received.

As we struggle through the holidays as new parents dealing with Gabriel's digestive issues, we will not forget what this time of year is all about--love, peace, and gratitude.

Merry 1st Christmas, Gabriel! May your first year be a happy one. We LOVE you!!!

November, A Month of Thanks...

2010-11-04T16:15:00.003-04:00

"Fallen leaves lying on the grass in the November sun bring more happiness than the daffodils"

~Cyril Connolly

"How wonderful it would be if we could help our children and grandchildren to learn thanksgiving at an early age. Thanksgiving opens the doors. It changes a child's personality. A child is resentful, negative—or thankful. Thankful children want to give, they radiate happiness, they draw people."
~Sir John Templeton

T hanks for time to be together, turkey, talk, and tangy weather.
H for harvest stored away, home, and hearth, and holiday.
A for autumn's frosty art, and abundance in the heart.
N for neighbors, and November, nice things, new things to remember.
K for kitchen, kettles' croon, kith and kin expected soon.
S for sizzles, sights, and sounds, and something special that about.
That spells THANKS for joy in living and a jolly good Thanksgiving.
~Aileen Fisher, All in a Word

November is National Diabetes Month and Prematurity Awareness Month. This month, 1930, my grandmother Gertrude (aka Lefty Sr.) was born. This month, 1976, my brother Chris was born. This month our nation gives Thanks for all that we have been given. And yet as important as all of that is to me, nothing can compare to the greatest thing we now await to happen this month, for in just two weeks time, I will be having a c-section to deliver our son (prematurely) and God willing we'll soon be celebrating another November birthday and our greatest reason to be thankful will be born!

Carmine and I have so many hopes and dreams about our son. We both picture him from either the sonogram pictures we've been blessed to receive and just from our own visions of what he may look like and while our visions may be different I know that we both picture him as the most gorgeous thing we've ever seen. While the middle name for our son was (and still is) one of debate, we both came to love the name Gabriel. I love its meaning, "God is my might", I love the sound of it, I love both the full name, Gabriel and the nickname, Gabe. Gabriel is also the angel who let Mary know that she would give birth to her son, Jesus.

After the unexpected and painful loss of our first son, Newby Angel, we were filled with concern, worry, and anxiety this pregnancy, but it was a much different pregnancy with a much better doctor (Charles Hux, MD). I got to enjoy my son's movements (even the more painful kicks in my side), I was able to keep my diabetes in good control, and despite the fact that we were often filled with worry because of the baby's size (always a little smaller and in the lower percentile throughout the pregnancy) we have now made it to 34 weeks, our son made it to 4 lbs. and we have high hopes that we will get to bring our son home this time.

I don't know what the future holds for our son or what he will grow up to be, but I do know he will be surrounded by love, adored by many, and that Carmine and I will be the best parents we can be. Carmine will no doubt make him laugh and be an excellent role model of kindness and support and I will do my best to teach him many things. I can't wait to read to him, sing to him, dance with him, and show him all the things I love most in the world. I especially can't wait for our first trip to my favorite place, DISNEY!

Lots of Hugs and Kisses await you Gabriel! Love, Mommy

Winnie the Pooh

2010-10-21T21:09:00.005-04:00

Our Nursery!

“Piglet sidled up to Pooh from behind. "Pooh," he whispered.

"Yes, Piglet?"

"Nothing," said Piglet, taking Pooh's paw, "I just wanted to be sure of you.""

Showered with Love

2010-10-18T20:51:00.004-04:00

My baby shower on 10-10-10 (my favorite number), was AMAZING. Jen, Monique, and my Mom really put together the best shower and every last detail was unique and perfect. I was surrounded by so much love from my diverse and lovely family and friends. The baby and I received gifts galore and we couldn't need for anything. We can't wait for our son to arrive and meet all those who love him already. Carmine and I are both so excited and I simply can't wait to be a mom!!!

Shower Photos:

A New Dawn, A New Day, A New Life and I'm Feeling Good!

2010-10-05T14:37:00.010-04:00

So, I figured enough time and events have passed without posting to my old friend Blog. In May, I received my Master's Degree in Library Science and I'm currently taking the final State Certification Course in order to teach in a public school. I look forward to a career change, but only after my even more exciting upcoming role as a Mom!

I am 30 weeks pregnant and anxiously awaiting the arrival of our son! With all the hopes and and prayers we can offer up for him (and I) to arrive healthy at the end of this pregnancy, we're happy to report so far so good. Of course we already love and adore him and think he's the most adorable thing we've ever seen. I can't foresee a day without him in my life. His every move makes me smile.

Our mom's sent us furniture for the nursery and Carmine has been working extra hard getting everything put together and ready for our son to come home. Carmine and I went to a Breast Feeding and Infant Care Class, this Sunday (10/10/10) my family is throwing us a Baby Shower, and we have appointments to meet with 3 different Pediatricians for the baby. It's all very exciting!!!

Here is our favorite Sonogram picture of the baby!

"Reflect upon your present blessings of which every man has many - not on your past misfortunes, of which all men have some." ~Charles Dickens

Auld Lang Syne and On To a New Year!

2010-01-06T15:27:00.016-05:00

Welcome 2010! My wish for this year is the same as every year, that Carmine and I can welcome a small addition to our family. I'm hoping that this year will be a good one for us all! It's an even year, which always tends to be better for me, so there's hope. I had a wonderful Christmas with my husband, family, and friends! We spent Christmas Eve making Gingerbread Houses with Girlies (Carmine turned 36), Christmas Day in Staten Island with Mom & Dad Anzalone, I spent some time in Florida with my Mom & David and my Grandmother (we even got to go to Universal Studios one day!), and we spent New Year's Eve in Staten Island and New Year's Day with Girlies playing games! We got lots of nice gifts. I've really been enjoying our new Keurig coffee maker that we bought with a Gift Card from my Father and Marla, so simple and tasty! I'm not looking forward to taking down the tree and all my Christmas decor. I would love it if we could just go right from Christmas to Spring, but a long winter is no doubt ahead of us.

Here's to a little positive thinking, creating positive energy, and bringing positive results!

Happy & Healthy New Year!

Christmas is Coming...

2009-12-01T14:59:00.004-05:00

It's that time of year again and whether we want to be or not the Season has a way of making you happy! I could be sad, sad because our son isn't with us as we had once hoped and expected, but instead the Season gives me hope. Hope that 2010 will bring better luck, better things, and another opportunity for our dream to come true. I'm looking forward to the holidays, time spent with family and friends, decorating the house with Christmas goodies, wrapping presents, and of course all the great Christmas Music!!! I'm also looking forward to visiting my Mom in sunny Florida on December 28th for a few days. I wish I could stay longer and I really wish Carmine could join me, but his job doesn't allow that time of year off. Carmine got a new job and goes for training in Oklahoma for most of December. We're so happy he finally got a better job at the Post Office and now he even has Saturdays off! Me, I start my last semester (finally) for my Masters in January and I can't wait to finally be done and hopefully move on to bigger and better things. We wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! I hope 2010 is a much better year for all!!!

It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year!!!

Viva Las Vegas!

2009-10-09T14:43:00.006-04:00

Carmine and I had a wonderful time in Vegas this month, we saw and did so much and keep talking about all the things we still want to do when/if we go back someday! It's beautiful there and so much fun! Good food, beautiful statues, great shows, shopping, and of course gambling! We saw Criss Angel's, "Believe", which was "eh". Certainly not the world's greatest magician, but he is really cute. We also saw Cirque de Soleit, "O", which was incredible -- dancing, synchronized swimming, diving, and we had great seats! We stayed at Mandalay Bay, which has a beach and a lazy river pool, it was so relaxing. We loved the Venetian, where we ate and took a Gondola ride, and we saw "O" at the Belagio home of the breath taking fountain show perfectly in sync to Andrea Bocelli's amazing voice. I truly loved the whole trip even though my feet were killing me from all the walking we did. We laughed at the fact that more of the walking was just finding our way in and out of the hotel/casinos. They really set it up so you can't get in and out quick. Carmine (wimpy) made me go on the rollercoaster at New York, New York alone, I wouldn't have missed it for the world, it was great! We didn't win it big (although Carmine did get $340 out of a .25 cent machine after only putting in $7). We really did enjoy every minute!

Carmine and I are participating in the "Share Walk for Rememberance" in Bridgewater next Saturday (10/17), which was our Newby's due date. We're very thankful that the walk just happened to be scheduled for this difficult day and month when the hopes and dreams we have still aren't yet to be and when Newby is so often in our thoughts. The Share group we go to every month has been very helpful. Each month we seem to dread going and consider skipping it, only to leave at the end and say, "I'm glad we went". The hardest part of the group for me, is all the people with kids. I understand that their loss is just as sad, but I can't help feel that if I was fortunate enough to have children or even one child, as they do, I would be too grateful to continue with all the sad talk and regrets.

Now it's on to some scary movies, haunted hayrides, and candy corn. Gotta love it! Happy Halloween!!!

The Autumn Wind...

2009-09-01T10:37:00.002-04:00

It's only September 1st and it seems fall is truly in the air already, a little cooler, the leaves already beginning to change colors, and for many (including myself) back to school! I am beginning what I hope to be my last year of school here at Rutgers and probably my most challenging. Come the Spring semester, I have to use all of my vacation time in order to complete the required Field Work, but as there are two sides to every coin, that will probably be the most enjoyable and productive part of the entire program! Carmine and I are looking forward to a trip to Las Vegas at the end of the month. I've never been and I can't wait to see all the casinos and non-stop action! We're staying at Mandalay Bay, the only casino with a "beach". Our biggest hope is to be pregnant again sometime soon and we'll be praying everyday for better luck and our ultimate wish...to be a mom and dad.

I Grieve...

2009-06-29T21:46:00.003-04:00

So hard to move on, still loving what's gone.

I know they say that time heals and makes it better, but somehow the more days between the last day my son was with me and the days that he's now gone only make me miss him more and more and more. My poor son, you carried all of my hopes and dreams, perhaps it was just too much for you. I can only hope that the pain I feel today and will feel everyday without you is somehow pain that you were spared. I loved you the minute I found out you were inside of me and I will continue to love you everyday that you are not.

The Urn

We looked forward to

Your laughter

Your cries

The color of your eyes

Today we are left with

The urn on our dresser

We had hopes

We had dreams

We were happy, so it seems

Now we are left with

The urn on our dresser

We miss you

We love you

We wish you were here

Instead of the urn on our dresser

by Jeanna James Anzalone

You'll Live in Our Hearts...

2009-06-20T19:28:00.003-04:00

In Memory of Newby Angel Anzalone who was born and died on 6/19/2009 but will live in our hearts forever & ever.
Love,
Mom & Dad

Snips and snails, and puppy dogs tails it is!

2009-06-03T13:59:00.009-04:00

We're having a BOY!!! We were thrilled to see Newby again yesterday, despite the fact that the day didn't go as well as planned. It turns out he's a little smaller then he should be and it is probably due to the fact that I've developed Pregnancy Hypertension (high blood pressure). I am praying that it doesn't lead to Pre-eclampsia, which would have me on bed rest first, and could lead to a very early delivery (only 28 weeks!!!). I'm cutting all salt out of my diet and going to try to mildly exercise a bit more. Although, this really is all related to my diabetes, I can only hope for the best at this point. I go back for another sonogram in 2 weeks, and hopefully he will be bigger, a sign that he's still growing and only fell a little off track. The doctor says he appeared to be the size of 19 weeks despite the fact that I'm 20 weeks along. I said, couldn't that be just a miscalculation of my due date? She said no, because my 12 week sonogram was right on target. It's so hard not to worry but I know that stress certainly won't help things and will only make it worse. Poor Newby, sorry your mom has this awful disease. I pray everyday that you come out ok despite it all. Even though she said he's smaller then he should be, he is proportioned well and still look adorable to us. We can't wait to meet him!!!

Had to go to the hospital for this Sonogram, where unfortunately the pictures were not clear at all! Newby at 20 Weeks:

It's Our Anniversary!

2009-05-22T12:29:00.003-04:00

Hard to believe how fast it went, but one year ago this weekend was filled with pure joy and excitement as we got married! We spent the whole year talking about how great our wedding was and I still surround myself with pictures of the memories. Now with our beautiful home and Newby on the way, we are truly a family and my husband has been wonderful!

April Showers Bring May Flowers!

2009-05-12T13:14:00.003-04:00

April was filled with wedding bliss down in Sunny Florida! Mom & David's wedding was perfect from the low humidity sunny weather, to the beautiful ceremony and reception surounded by water, and of course the happy couple joined by family and good friends. I have my next sonogram scheduled for June 2nd (20 weeks) when we're hoping to find out if it's a boy or a girl! My birthday was on Mother's Day this year and it was a really nice weekend. My husband got me everything I wanted (Wii Fit and a new ring) and even surprised me with a Mother's Day gift from "Newby", a Thomas Kinkade Disney picture of Pinnochio, which will be hung in the baby's room. In a few weeks, Carmine and I will celebrate our 1-year Anniversary. Time is flying!

Link to view Mom's Wedding Photos:
http://www.photoworks.com/photo-sharing/shareSignin.jsp?shareCode=ABDC5D1C855&cp=ems_shr_alb_pml&cb=PW

Link to me singing at Mom's wedding (on You Tube):
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yDmc2EkpsKo

Lookin' Good!

2009-04-07T09:28:00.006-04:00

Had my first external Sonogram/Ultrasound yesterday and was left AMAZED! "Newby" (as we like to call him or her) got so much bigger and I could count all the fingers on his/her hands! "Newby" was awake and moving around a lot! He/She even appeared to be sucking his/her thumb and then turned his/her back to us! It was truly surreal and hard to believe that amazing little life is inside me moving around. I don't feel any movement yet, but I'm really looking forward to that part!

Here's "Newby" -

With Arms Wide Open!

2009-03-20T11:32:00.005-04:00

Carmine and I are expeting our new bundle of joy sometime in October (due date 10/17/09)!!! We're so excited, nervous, anxious, curious, and overjoyed! We've both talked about and dreamed about this for a long time and the time is here and now. We will definitely be finding out if it's a boy or a girl who will bring us so much joy but either way, we just pray everyday that I can carry and bring a healthy baby into the world in October. Now it begins...

Long Time No Post!

2009-03-12T10:01:00.006-04:00

Sorry to those of you who actually do check my Blog for info, Facebook has sucked me in and it's hard to update both regularly. Carmine and I are really excited and anxious for Spring. This month is full of birthdays - Happy Birthday Dad, David, Matt, Isabella & Annabella, and Paul! Girlies are turning 6 this year and cuter then ever, looking forward to their "Highschool Musical" Birthday Party! I get a Spring Break from school next week, but I'd like to try and get ahead, so it won't really be a break at all.

Happy St. Patty's Day!

Happy Heart Day!

2009-02-10T10:48:00.005-05:00

I'd just like to say enough already! In light of the latest Yankee to be found guilty of steroid use (A-Rod), I'd just like to say, why don't we just allow steroids in (all) sports? Modern day sportsmen could become more like late day Gladiators. The bigger the better. Then we wouldn't have to pay them the ridiculous salaries they get because all athletes would be super athletes. If an athlete can't take steroids, then he won't probably won't be able to play, sorry. We'd be able to take sports to a whole other level. Making athletes like Mark McGwire look small and weak. Imagine Hockey with everyone on steroids? No more press speculations, accusations, suspensions, fines, million dollar players apologizing, teams in distress.

Valentine's Day is coming and I just love that there is a holiday that is all about hearts, love, and romance. It's always even better when it falls on a Saturday! I hope everyone has fun with their loved ones. I hope all your kids give and get lots of Valentine's in school.

Busy, Busy, Busy!

2009-01-20T11:09:00.007-05:00

Well, the long weekend is over and now the work begins. The Spring Semester begins today so it's back to school for me. I'm dying to lose some weight so getting to the gym is a priority. Work is busy with the students back and events a buzz. The Inauguration of our new president is today! All those shows I talked about in my last blog are on. So, from morning until night there is plenty to do, see, and participate in. I saw my friend Anna this past weekend and her adorable son Patrick. He has this really curious nature that is so fun to watch and he loves to flirt with the ladies with this adorable little smirk he gets. Such a happy baby. Anna is my mentor, also a Type 1 diabetic, she keeps a close eye on her diabetes and was great throughout her pregnancy and delivered a very healthy baby boy. I hope to do the same someday soon and having her for a friend is something I'm very thankful for.

I found this Goethe quote online in one of my classes and thought I'd share:

"Our Wishes are Premonitions of the Potential that Lies within Us" ~Johan Wolfgang von Goethe

I Love Long Weekends!

2009-01-12T21:29:00.003-05:00

Here's a picture of Christmas at Our House. I'm really looking forward to the 3-day weekend coming up. I'd really like to get over to the new outlets in Tinton Falls and the Englishtown Fleamarket, which although it's only a few blocks away from my house, we've just been too busy on the weekends to get over there. It's also a great time for TV -- Obama's Inauguration, Big Love, American Idol, Nip/Tuck -- so much to see and enjoy! I recently started using Facebook and I'm amazed at how many old friends I found or found me. It's really a facinating website.

Happy New Year!

2009-01-07T12:30:00.005-05:00

Another year over, and another new year begins! Lots of great memories from 2008 and lots of great hopes for 2009. My mother, David, and Grandma came to visit over the holidays and although the time flew by way too quick, we had a lot of fun! We spent Christmas Eve at Carmine's parents house, we spent Christmas Day at my brother Chris' house, we spent New Year's Eve at my house. We went to NY, had dinner at Nonna's, and got lots of compliments on our new home. The following are some pictures David and my grandmother took during the week. I'm still waiting for Carmine's pictures...

Christmas Time is Here!

2008-12-21T21:57:00.005-05:00

Ready or not, Christmas is here! I am ready and anxiously looking forward to the very nice Christmas break from work, my mother, David, and grandmother's visit, and all the fun festivities that take place at Christmas time. At this special time of year, I always think about my love of Jesus Christ. Although, I am not a very religious person (mostly because there is no proof or facts to actually say who is wrong or right), I think that whether or not Jesus is our Lord and Savior or just a man who lived a life that we should all try our best to follow, he is loved and worshiped the world over, and he is the only reason we celebrate this wonderful holiday. Since the Christmas songs seem to say it best-- May your days be Merry and Bright! Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

A Merry New York Christmas!

2008-12-19T15:33:00.003-05:00

We had our Annual New York City Christmas Outing this past weekend and saw the Broadway Show "Jersey Boys"! It was Excellent! For those of you who haven't seen it, it's definitely a must see. The tree (also a Jersey Boy) is beautiful this year! We ate dinner at Ben Benson's Steakhouse. Delish! We even managed to squeeze in some shopping. There's nothing like Christmas in New York; the shopping, the decorations, Rockefeller Center, St. Patricks Cathedral, Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire, I LOVE it all! My beautiful brite colored and ever so soft cashmere scarf was a gift from Michele.

The only thing worse then an accident is one at Christmas time...

2008-12-07T22:47:00.004-05:00

Well, with all the holiday hustle and bustle that I so enjoy, I had an unfortunate event happen on my way home from work Friday night. I was merging into a lane on Route 18 and was continuously hit from behind by a tractor trailer, driven by a blonde, pony tailed, southern hick! I love NJ for all it's diversity, but if you're not from around here, please don't drive here. As always, there's construction lanes all over the place on 18 and you are forced to merge. This guy was clearly not letting me in. But, I saw a break, moved my way in and the next thing I know he was hitting my little Nissan Sentra from behind! I could hear my bumper crunching. He could have said he didn't see me, my car is small, but instead he insisted that I cut him off and hit his truck! C'mon, my little car hit him and caused that damage? Well, as I went over it afterwards I actually started to question what happened, that is until I was telling the guy at the Body Shop what happened and a lady was there to pick up her car and said the same exact thing happened to her and also on Route 18! She said, as I did, that she could swear the guy was hitting her intentionally. And now I don't doubt what I thought happened as well. Of course the officer (men always side with men) said the damage appeard to be my fault and said he was writing it up that way. I get the police report on Wednesday, joy of joys. Anyway, I'm currently carless. Which is never good around the holidays with all there is to do. Going to try and rent a car. But with the lovely $750 insurance deductable I now have to pay, I hope it's not going to cost another leg.

My bumperless car!

The tractor trailer that hit me!

Yeah, Merry Christmas to you too buddy...

It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year!

2008-12-03T13:23:00.003-05:00

There's nothing like Christmas -- Christmas spirit, Christmas music, Christmas shows, Christmas decorations, Christmas gatherings, Christmas presents --I love it all! I'm almost finished with my shopping so the wrapping (another favorite of mine) will soon begin. I hope to start getting decorations out this weekend and put the tree up by next weekend. My mom, David, and Grandmother are coming on the 23rd and will finally see our new home. Next weekend I'm going into the city for our annual trip to see the tree, the nativity at St. Patricks, and the broadway show "Jersey Boyz". All the reasons why it truly is the Most Wonderful Time of the Year! They're lighting the tree at Rockefeller Center tonight. The tree this year is called "miracle" and it's from NJ! Hope everyone is enjoying this truly magical time of year...

Happy Thanksgiving!

2008-11-26T13:24:00.003-05:00

We have so much to be thankful for this year (and every year). Carmine and I are so thankful to have eachother, we're thankful for the love and support of our family and friends, as much as we struggle with it, we can honestly say we're thankful for our health, as much as we complain about them, we're thankful to have our jobs, and we're so very, very thankful for our home!

Happy Thanksgiving to everyone we love and care about!

Happy Birthday Chris!

2008-11-21T11:10:00.004-05:00

Tomorrow is my brother Chris' birthday. Now an avid surfer, I'm sure that's how he'll be spending a good portion of his day. Tomorrow (November 22nd) he'll be 32 and all I can think is how quickly time flys by and before you know it we're "old". Chris--sensitive, caring, and always giving-- I'm so proud of you and where you are today and so thankful to have you as my brother. I love you more then words could ever express and I hope this birthday is a happy one for you. Love, your Sister.

Pics of Our Progress...

2008-11-14T11:01:00.018-05:00

OK, so here (finally) are a few before and after pics of our house! Some of the "before" pics are from the former owner's shots (all we have). We're still amazed at how much work and money we've had to put into our 7 year old townhouse, but the majority of problems came from or were the appliances so once we replace them, we should be good for some time to come. We still have a garage full of stuff to unpack, organize, and get through, but we really feel like the place is at a point where the major work is behind us. The stress of it all kind of takes away from the enjoyment and pleasure we should be feeling so hopefully as things wind down some of that good stuff will be a little more apparent!

A Work In Progress...

2008-11-10T22:13:00.010-05:00

Carmine and I moved into our new home on November 1st. The move itself went rather smooth, with the help of our family and friends. We pretty much got it all done in one day and filled the 27 ft. truck we rented. We couldn't have done it without all of those who were there to lend a hand. I had the entire next week off from work to unpack and get the house somewhat livable, which brought our first disaster. The first day I was home (alone) the dishwasher broke and water filled our (finished) basement. Now we have to replace the dishwasher and fix the basement ceiling, and in the meantime I'm back washing dishes by hand. Our furniture was delivered, all but the wall unit (back ordered) and sofa for the basement which didn't fit through the entrance way (thank God for small favors). And right in the midst of all this excitement and madness....OBAMA BECAME OUR NEXT PRESIDENT!!! I couldn't be happier. I hear one of the first things he hopes to do when he enters office is sign off on stem cell research, which could lead to a cure for diabetes. I'm so proud of our country for moving us forward with open minds. I'm so happy for my little brother and my future child and the doors that have been opened for them, now there is nothing they can't do. So, here we are, new house, new president, terrible economy and just about as broke as we've ever been. But still, very, very, happy!

SOMEWHERE is Here!

2008-10-27T15:45:00.011-04:00

Well I've been waiting for years and WEST SIDE STORY is finally returning to Broadway after all these years and I can't wait to see it! I've always said, "I wish they would bring West Side Story back to Broadway" because I LOVE the movie, the music, the dancing, the story....and I just have to see it come alive on stage. Prices will probably be high, so maybe next year, but I've waited this long so I'll be patiently hoping to see it and hoping they have a cast and production as good as the Rita Moreno, Natalie Wood cast was!

We're "Home Sweet Home" Owners!

2008-10-15T14:09:00.004-04:00

Well, as of 2:00 p.m. yesterday it was official! Carmine and I are the proud owners of 83 Heron Court (our first home). Our closing went smooth as can be, we bought paint, Carmine changed the locks, I cleaned the kitchen and now we just can't wait to get back and do more! We'll be changing the carpet, painting most rooms, and replacing 2 sinks. We'll probably bring an air mattress over and spend our first night there this weekend. We'll be officially moving in on November 1st. Can't wait for you all to see it! I'll be sure to post before and after pics as the work gets done. It's like all those make over shows I've watched coming to life...very exciting!!!

Our new address is: 83 Heron Court, Manalapan, NJ 07726

Fall, Football, Family and Friends...

2008-10-06T11:32:00.008-04:00

October (thankfully) is moving right along. We have our final walk-thru a week from today and our closing a week from tomorrow. Then the work begins, painting, carpet installing, cleaning, moving, more cleaning, unpacking, decorating, etc. Very exciting! We got together with my friend Sissy for some fun in Red Bank. We ate at Teak (always yummy) and had drinks at Rick's (her husband) bar (Echo). Being the old tired farts that we now are, we had to leave before the Reggae band came on and I couldn't help remember the days when nothing would have had me leaving before the music came on! But, with work, school, and moving Carmine and I are tired most days. Check out some of Sissy's work below (and see her Flickr under My Blog List), she's an amazing photographer! Sunday we went to my little brother's football game, they tied, but played a great game and Chris had a few great plays that left me even more proud then I already always am of him. So cute, so smart, so lovable -- but then I guess I can't help but be bias. And yes, he's just about as tall as me already at 9.

Chris' Game:

Sissy's Pics:

Ahhh it's OCTOBER finally...

2008-09-30T16:00:00.005-04:00

Well, here we are entering the merry month of October FINALLY! Pumpkin Month, Haunted Happenings Month, Hayride Month, Costume Month, Candy Month, Fall Foliage Month and.....MOVING MONTH! We have our final walk-thru at 83 Heron Court on October 13th and we close on October 14th. We can't wait! What an exciting time for us, our first home! What a busy time for us, getting the house ready and moving will devour October for us no doubt. Of course being the Horror fan that I am, I still hope to squeeze in some pumpkin carving, scary movies, and a visit to a local Haunted House or Hayride. Any suggestions or plans to join me, just let me know! Don't you just love how Halloween brings out the kid in us?

Sadly, my mother lost her job at Wachovia recently and will be hoping to find something that pays well in Florida and David is still trying to sell his house so together they can carry one mortgage instead of two. We all know that the only thing worse then the job market right now is the housing market, so hopefully if both things don't pan out for them right away, with a little luck at least one will.

No doubt, the current state of our economy affects all of us (although some much more then others) and especially those of us who are part of the ever disappearing middle class, I truly hope you're watching, listening, and learning what our Presidential candidates have planned for us and that you'll go out and VOTE (for Obama) in November. Our country, our future, depends on it....

Business As Usual...

2008-09-22T09:22:00.002-04:00

Nothing much to report, we've been super busy with securing all the necessities for our mortgage (insurance, paperwork, rate lock, etc.), packing, school work, our busy jobs, and shopping for the house. I have to say this has been the longest month of my life. I'm sure the fact that it's 5 weeks instead of 4 and I'm overly anxious to close on the house and get moving next month has a lot to do with it. Saturday I packed, Carmine and I went to see "Burn After Reading", I loved it, he didn't. Chris and Monique helped us shop for paint and house stuff on Sunday. Another weekend here and gone and yet it's still September and October just isn't coming quick enough...

Another Engagement...

2008-09-13T23:56:00.011-04:00

Congratulations Shelley and Sean! Susan, Rich, Stephanie, and Shelley (a.k.a. "The Prietos") have been long time family friends that we shared many a Thanksgiving and Christmas with growing up. Shelley, the same age as my brother Chris, has long wanted to find "the one" and get married and she has found him. Sean, from Point Pleasant, came to our wedding and now we will be saving the date for their wedding next June. Shelley is all smiles and couldn't be happier and we're all very happy for her. They had a lovely engagement party at Sean's parents' gorgeous house in Point Pleasant right on the water by the Beaver Dam Bridge. It was nice catching up with "The Prietos".

Carmine and I are still a buzz with all the planning, packing, mortgage tackling for the big move that we are both so very anxious for. We bought some new furniture and my Dad bought us a new refrigerator and we just can't wait to move in and use it all!

Closing date, now scheduled for October 14th, is only one month away (yippee!)....

Shelley & Sean's Engagement Party

Labor Day Weekend Already?

2008-09-01T20:30:00.014-04:00

Saturday we went to my friends Glenn and Michele's wedding at PNC Bank Arts Center. Once we made it through the Lynard Skynard/Kid Rock crowd, which made me realize even if you gave me free front row tickets to the show I would turn them down, we made it to their outdoor ceremony. My friend Glenn is Jewish and they had a lovely cermony outdoors which is traditional for Jewish weddings that included an array of purple (their chosen colors) yarmulkes (just learned how to spell that), purple flowers, bubbles, and the signature stomping of the glass before the kiss that despite the humidity and occasional annoying bug, was as I said earlier lovely. Indoors, the cocktail hour was delicious! The coolest part was the ice sculpture of the Burger King "King". It was perfect since Glenn proposed to Michele on April Fool's Day dressed in full "King" garb. It was a very nice wedding and it brought back many of our cherished wedding memories. Unfortunately, we forgot our camera, so Carmine's Blackberry had to do...

Sunday we spent the day in Manhatten at the Museum of Natural History and we went to see Spamalot on Broadway, which was AWESOME! I've been wanting to see it for years and it was finally available at the TKTS booth (my favorite way to see a Bdwy show for much less) and we had 4th row Orchestra Seats. Once again, no camera. Once again, Carmine's Blackberry.

It's hard to believe summer is officially over, especially when the weather is still so hot and beautiful. But yes, no more wearing white, the leaves will soon be starting to change, school is back in session, and we only have 8 weeks or so until we MOVE!!! So, Happy Fall to All!

Glenn & Michele's Wedding:

SPAMALOT:

Home Sweet Home - FINALLY!!!

2008-08-09T18:05:00.010-04:00

Carmine and I are finally going to be homeowners and more importantly, NJ residents! Our short sale that we waited so long for (since April) still hadn't come around, so I decided to ask our realtor to put an offer in on the unit that we had also seen back in April but that was priced too high. It's the same unit as the short sale unit (2 BR, 2.5 Bath, Basement, Garage) in Tracy Village, Manalapan, but in better condition. So, we offered $10,000 more then our short sale offer and $20,000 less then their asking price...and they accepted our offer! We should be receiving the contract Monday and inspection is scheduled for this Friday, 8/15. The only bump in the road so far (there always has to be one, this is me after all, the Queen of bumps), is that they decided they're taking the refrigerator, washer, and dryer with them! So, we're in for a long road of expenses (DP, closing costs, furniture, and now appliances). BUT, we'll finally have a home of our own and I'm finally leaving Staten Island! Any connections on furniture or appliances (new or used) would be greatly appreciated. We're scheduled to close mid-October.

Here's a few more pics of 83 Heron Court - our new home!

August is Here and How Time Flies!

2008-08-06T14:02:00.005-04:00

We spent the weekend down at Chris' house. It was a weekend for surprises! We caught the end of Jen's Dad's 70th Surprise B-Day party at their house and on Sunday went to a Surprise Farewell party for my long time BFF Pam Baker and her family. They got a really beautiful house (I saw pictures and can't wait to visit) right near Hershey Park in PA. We wish them the best of luck and know they'll do great out there. Monday Carmine and I went for a consultation at the Prenatal Center in Neptune. Dr. Benito was very nice and is sending me for a series of tests (heart, kidneys, thyroid, etc.) to make sure there are absolutely no complications to be aware of or take care of before Carmine and I begin our conception journey. Scary stuff at my now advanced age and having been a diabetic for 15 years! But, it's all well worth the risk and the work. Hopefully, by this time next year we'll be blessed enough to have a baby either well on the way or already here!

Outlet shopping Break:

Bike Riding at Midland Beach - Staten Island, NY:

Not for those from the Jersey Shore!:

Happy Birthday Moms!

2008-07-28T22:24:00.012-04:00

Yes, that's correct, "Moms". Ironically, my mother and Carmine's mother have birthdays only 3 days apart. For Carmine's mom we spent this past weekend at their house in the Catskills. Although, Carmine and I have both been wanting to go rafting, we didn't prepare for it this trip and we'll have to save that for another trip. We did hit a street fair and did a little antique shopping this trip. My mom, spent the weekend with her now fiance, David, and my Grandmother. Just how much I wish I could be there is hard to put into words. Happy Birthday Mom, I love and miss you!

(July 30th) (July 27th)

Summertime...

2008-07-22T21:45:00.007-04:00

Saturday I got a nice summer haircut and shared my wedding photos at the salon. These days I don't go anywhere without wedding albums and pictures, no point in describing what my 10 albums can better show! Afterwards, I went to Rose's to spend some time in the pool with her family and her ever so sweet Aunt and Cousin. Carmine and I spent Sunday with my father and Marla enjoying crabs and bbq...mmm, mmm! Still no word on our home, can't help starting to doubt it will ever be ours and we now have to start the dreaded house hunting once again just in case we don't get it. NJ has to be the worst place to be a lower-middle class first-time home buyer. Carmine and I would appreciate any help with the prayers! No pictures from this past weekend. BUT here's a few oldies but goodies...

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!

Grandpa (Thursday 7/24) Monique (Friday 7/25)

Happy 60th Louise!

2008-07-16T14:22:00.004-04:00

We celebrated Louise Palmieri's 60th B-Day on Sunday with a surprise pool party, friends, food & drinks, and lots of fun. Carmine and I got to share some of our wedding pictures, relax, swim and really enjoyed the day. Louise was very surprised and deserved all the love and good wishes sent her way that day. She's someone I admire for her flawless style (I've never seen Louise and not had to ask where she got either an accessory or article of clothing that I absolutely adored), her genuine good nature, and for the way she's been a true friend to both my mother and I. We love her. You wear 60 well Louise! Just have to add here, Rose and Mom, you're next!

It's Never too Late to find True Love!

2008-07-07T15:34:00.010-04:00

Great news! My mom will soon be Mary Stoops! Mom and David got engaged over the weekend during their fun trip to Universal Studios. They're both very happy and we're very happy for her (yippee, another wedding!!!). She has long deserved someone just like David, well actually, David is even more then one could wish for anyone you love to find. He's kind, fun, devoted, and completely in love with my mother. They genuinely enjoy eachother's company. My mother, my best friend, has finally found what she has long deserved. Congratulations Mom & David!

Land of the Free, Home of the Brave!

2008-07-06T20:28:00.011-04:00

Another fun-filled 4th of July at the Jersey Shore has come and gone. We spent Thursday night in Red Bank, where in my opinion they have the BEST fireworks! We found what seemed to be a very decent spot in River Park close to the water, only to find that after 2 hours of sitting in our designated spot waiting for the show to begin and listening to a less then mediocre local band, that most people decided to just pop a squat last minute and some didn't even squat! For those of you who know me best, you will not be shocked when I say that I had to fight a guy who decided to stand directly in front of me and in my line of vision (despite the fact that fireworks are in the air) to GET OUT OF MY WAY! But, once he did, the show (as always) was excellent! Friday we spent with Chris and Monique (mostly Monique, as Chris was surfing and skate boarding) in Long Branch for Ocean Fest and then Asbury Park for sushi dinner at Taka with Rose, Chris, and Monique. Saturday was Paul and Jen's BBQ, the house and pool was a buzz with guests (more kids then adults), good food, good drinks, laughter, pictures, and fun! It's BBQs like that one that make Carmine and I anxious for the days when we finally have our own little one to run around after! And of course my cousins, the twins (Girlies) are bigger and more adorable every time I see them! Isabella has her first loose tooth and they both can swim in the pool now without their "boppers" (aka swimmies). Time flys when you're having fun!

Here's a little taste of the Red Bank fireworks, captured by my husband:

3rd Annual Tour de Cure!

2008-06-23T10:14:00.007-04:00

Team JJ Riders completed our 3rd Annual Tour de Cure on Saturday at the Jersey Shore. The team included myself, Carmine, Chris, Monique, Rose, Sissy, and Rick. It was the first time for Rose, Sissy, and Rick, but we all made it the entire 35 miles and in under 4 hours! Chris (as always) was the first one back, Monique 2nd, and the rest of us all just about together in 3rd. The weather was perfect, the route was (in my opinion) the best yet, and together Team JJ Riders raised around $2,000 (hard to give an exact figure with matching gifts still rolling in) for what is a very important cause for me -- DIABETES. We also had another portion of JJ Riders ride the 60 mile route the weekend before in Princeton, which included Carol and friends. I know that the love of bike riding is a big reason we all do it, but I am touched that my friends and family's love for me is enough to have them riding 35 miles (and this year without training)! Next year, we will train, we will have team t-shirts, and we will be less sore! To all who donated, to all who rode, THANK YOU!

The only thing better then a Vacation is a Honeymoon!

2008-06-20T14:38:00.010-04:00

Most of you have already heard by now about the adventures we had on our honeymoon, but I figured I'd post it to make it official. We had a 2 part honeymoon starting with a 9 day cruise out of Brooklyn, NY that went to San Juan, St. Maarten, St. Thomas, and Turks & Caicos (in that order). We hated San Juan, loved St. Maarten, St. Thomas/St. John was nice but our excursion in St. John was horrible, and we loved Turks & Caicos. So, what is it they say, "two out of three aint bad"? Well, the bad included a ship that was extremely overcrowded and understaffed, an excursion at El Yunque Rainforest in San Juan that had the tour bus leave us at the top of the mountain to fend for ourselves, and an excursion in St. John that was labled as a mild hike and beach visit that was actually a rocky, hilly, long hike and 7 minutes on the beach! BUT, it's the memories that count, the way Carmine and I can simply say the name of our cabin steward and crack up, the way we both can picture the bus driver who left us like one recalls the boogey man from childhood, and the way watching the video or seeing the pictures of me in flip flops on the "mild" eco hike has our sides hurting from laughing so hard! In between the bad, we had GREAT food, lots of time together as husband and wife, and movies under the stars.

Then it was off to part 2 of our honeymoon, Newport, Rhode Island. Neither of us had ever been, we did it all, not only toured the mansions but walked to each of them! Walked the Cliff Walk. Walked through town. Notice the pattern? Yes, we enjoyed it, but we couldn't help but ask ourselves as our legs and feet were aching, why we didn't just do an all inclusive and veg out on a beach??? But, then I guess we wouldn't have all the great pictures....

Honestly, I guess we just expected a little more special treatment and a little more free stuff!

Thought maybe it's time for a Blog!

2008-06-20T14:24:00.009-04:00

Well, we got married on May 25, 2008. It was a PERFECT day! The weather, the time spent with great friends, loving family, and adorable kids, and most importantly the day I married the love of my life. Carmine is everything I ever wanted; kind, caring, loving, handsome, smart and I'm so proud to call him my husband! Which is why I am now going through the torture of trying to get my name changed. I knew it wouldn't be easy, social security, driver's license, credit cards, work, forms, etc., etc. It's really a nightmare trying to become a new person. But, I know in the end, I'll be happy I did it. Happy to be the new me: Mrs. Jeanna James Anzalone. I can't believe how quickly the wedding day and the honeymoon flew by. It's already nearing the end of June, where does the time go? Carmine and I are still waiting and praying for word that the townhouse we put an offer on back in April will finally be ours. Tomorrow is our annual Tour de Cure for diabetes. We'll attempt to ride 35 miles in the 86 degree heat down at the Jersey Shore (what I'll always consider my HOME). I'll be sure to post how we all did. So, until then...

hi

2008-06-13T16:07:00.000-04:00

Hey, A quick hello to try this out....