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My Weekend…Planned

Friday


Today is busy all day. From dentist appointments to parent teacher conferences to lots of work to finish for me. The evening will be a little sad. We’ll be saying goodbye to my aunt and grandmother visiting from Guyana. It’s been nice to walk into my parents house and see them. I love the conversations I had especially with my aunt and the wisdom of from grandmothers. Although I wish we could have done more with them, it was so nice to have more family around. 

Saturday 

In the morning we’ll be babysitting my in- laws new puppy, Dora. I know…me babysitting a puppy? Sounds crazy, especially since my fear of dogs is FOR REAL like some people fear heights. I try to be brave. Of course I’ll do anything for my in-laws and not only because they’re the ONLY people who watch our children. #NobodyBabysitsThreeKids

Saturday afternoon I’ll be working. We are literally up to our necks in work right now. Between Straightforward Consulting, Barrels to Beethoven, DJ illeso and Rhythm ‘n’ Steel and of course our children and home. We have a “to do” list that would bring some to tears. So spending a few hours checking off the list on Saturday afternoon is a must. The highlight? At least we’ll be together! 
Saturday evening will be unique and fun. At my daughters school the parents of each grade spend some time together (without the children) to get to know one another. So we’ll be spending the evening at the home of one of Cece’s classmates. A nice idea and a chance for us to get to know other families at our school. 

Sunday 

Sunday morning is back to our usual routine. The crazy summer had us really out of whack, but we’re back! Sunday morning will consist of church and brunch. Sunday evening will be another unique and fun event were headed to Monster Mash, Family Bash! A family friendly Halloween party at La Tavola, a great restaurant owned by a great friend. I helped a little with planning and David will DJ. The girls are beyond excited!!


All in All

I would say it’s all about my family, work and fun this weekend but that’s every weekend, that’s actually my focus everyday. After a great morning of conferences I’m proud of myself, my husband and especially our girls. Many years ago I made a decision to do it all. My all, my version of doing and having it all. Being an entrepreneur, a professional musician and starting an organization that engages and inspires people, are goals I’ve had since I was a child. However, seeing my girls growing so well, hearing what their teachers, principles and others say about them, fills me with pride and joy. Above everything else my greatest goal has always been to be a good mother, I’d say great mother but I don’t want to place too much pressure on myself😊. To raise children, ultimately  women, that are confident, kind and hardworking would be my greatest achievement and the biggest impact  I could make in this world. My girls are those things and I will continue to encourage and inspire them as they grow. Being a parent is not easy and we know some of the paths we’ve chosen make things a bit harder, but it’s worth some hard days to ensure positive growth and diverse experiences for our girls.  All of their teachers describe them as; well spoken, smart and kind, that is our reward. I feel overjoyed and extremely blessed with our journey thus far. 

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My Weekend Planned….

Friday

Friday morning will be spent with girls working from home anticipating the end to a very hectic work week. The afternoon has been deemed “girl time” and we’ll be doing nails, enjoying lunch and spending some time together. Friday evening will begin with a stroll through downtown Pittsburgh for the Gallery Crawl. I love attending this event. From music to art and performance, there is so much to experience and always something new offered. I’ve been surrounded by the arts and creative people for the past few months and I couldn’t me more happy about it. Those who create are such an inspiration. it leaves me always wanting more.The evening will end with a drink at my new favorite spot, Tako. Where my favorite dj, aka dj illeso, aka David Pugliano aka my husband will have you moving in your seat to the very best music. A creative in his own right, he claims to not be a musician as I am, but somehow knows and feels the music as if he was playing it off of the sheet.

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Saturday

Saturday morning will start with yoga, although this will be my second class ever, I’m excited to join my new friend and yoga instructor, Cara for a pop up yoga class at James Simon Sculptor Studio. What an incredible space to host a yoga class. My first yoga experience occurred a few months ago with Cara when we hosted pop up yoga class at fieldwork contemporary. That class kept me feeling calm and strong for the remainder of the day. I know the many benefits of yoga and I know my body, mind and spirit need it. I’m eager to try it again before diving in for regular sessions.

The afternoon will be a delight. I’m teaching a Saturday afternoon steelpan class through my organization, Barrels to Beethoven. These students are doing so well and teaching steelpan brings me deep joy and satisfaction. I’m hoping to offer free Saturday classes in the fall. Let’s just hope the funding organizations get hip to how amazing the steelpan is and how beneficial these programs are for youth.

Saturday evening is all about my family. I’m planning a picnic dinner in the park. A delicious menu, fun desserts and spending time outside as a family, our favorite things to do in the summertime.

Sunday

this Sunday bringing it back to normal. We haven’t had a typical Sunday in a long time. Church, for us, is the best way to start our day and our week. Followed by brunch and a trip to the pool, if the girls get their way!

All in All…

This weekend will hopefully leave me feeling, relaxed and inspired. In spending time with a friend a great artist and yoga instructor, I’m learning about the importance of rest, both for your body and mind. Taking time to rest leads to more productivity and improved creative process. I am so used to working hard all of the day, rarely stopping to eat, rest and reenergize. I am learning to set aside regular time to do so. Whether its yoga or mediation, or making time to simply rest. I want to do this because I know it will have a direct positive impact on my family, my work and my creative endeavors. Taking care will increase my ability to do more. So many speak of how busy they are like it’s some sort of achievement. I’m not busy, I don’t talk about being busy. For me, I am successfully managing all aspects of my life. Starting with my children and my family and all that comes with that. My life’s work.

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Girls Just Wanna Have Fun…

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One of the things I love most about being a mom of three young girls is watching the interaction they have with one another. It’s more than having someone to play with. They truly show care and concern for each other, laugh together and share special moments that only sisters can share. It’s a blessing to witness. Watching their interaction often makes me think of growing up with my sisters. I’m lucky to witness what my mother witnessed as she watched us grow together. I love the similarities. In honor of of National Sibling Day I’m sharing some great things my girls do that remind me of growing up with my sisters.

They Love Musicals

Whether it’s the Sound of Music or one of the unforgettable songs from Frozen my girls know them all and thanks to Pandora, we can belt out the lyrics to our favorite show tunes or musical movies every morning on the way to school.

They Can and Will Perform For You

They don’t just love musicals they love to sing and dance. And, will do a show. Just sit, watch and applaud at the end.

They Can Have a Dance Party Anytime, Anywhere

It takes a special soul to literally get up and dance at any moment, I have three of those special souls. My girls will ask to get up from the dinner table to dance to a great song or better yet, if someone yells “dance party!” you’ll hear footsteps running from all parts of the house to join in. Same goes if you yell “group hug!”

They’ll Make Up Games

My sisters and I made up a lot of games as kids. I thought it was a West Indian trait but according to my husband, it’s an Italian trait as well. My girls have no problems making up games like wagon ball, where you try to shoot the ball in the little red wagon.

They’ll Change Or Make Up Song Lyrics That Correspond To The Current Situation

This takes true skill. Very cool.

They Play Music Together

This is truly a blessing to watch. Not only are they becoming actual musicians like my sisters and I were as children, but they’re performing together, in their own band, just like we did. Not many children experience this. I’ve performed with my sisters professionally since I was 9. Being a young musician is the most amazing thing but performing with my sisters was the very best part.

 

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My Anniversary Weekend…Planned!

davidandleigh

This week, like most has been hectic. Meetings, proposals, 2HR delays, school closings, bitter cold, and the usual craziness of running a business and raising a family. The highlight? My daughter Stella receiving a scholarship for academic achievement for next school year. She’s only 7 years old, but we’re convinced this will the first of many. The weekend will be a little different than usual. This weekend, we’ll be celebrating our anniversary, we have some fun activities planned and are spending it without our girls.

Friday

This afternoon we’ll take the girls to spend the weekend with their nonnie and nonnuzzi. I purchased tickets for Startup Weekend Education. It may be surprising to some, but Startup Weekend has quickly become one of my favorite events since entering the tech scene, it was my first choice when deciding how we would spend our anniversary weekend. I’m excited to hear the pitches and see what ideas are chosen.

Saturday

This will be an entire day without my girls. The first time I’m not out of town, but home, without children. I know I’m going to miss them but I am looking forward to it. I have decided that I won’t be doing any work, no; proposals, reviewing resumes, cooking, cleaning, laundry, nothing of the sort. My husband and I will just relax. Something we never get to do. I’m taking this day to re-energize, gather my thoughts and plan out the next few months.

Saturday evening we’ll trade in our lounge wear for a suit and fancy dress and head down to the Hotel Monaco. It’s my first time, I’m a little late to the party. My husband was one of the contractors on the project so he’s seen the ins and outs and excited to give me a tour.

Sunday

This will not be the typical Sunday. No waking up at 6:00 am to clean and prep. Instead, I’ll be sleeping in…again! Church, then brunch to celebrate our actual anniversary. The big focus for the day after brunch will the nonprofit I started with my husband. We’re at a pivotal stage and have a list of tasks to accomplish. Sunday evening it’s back to Startup Weekend Ed. to see the final pitches. This is the best part. The conviction, team work and hard work that fills the room inspires me.

This weekend will be and feel much different than most. Sunday, February 22nd will mark our 12th wedding anniversary. We’re excited to celebrate our marriage and we’re proud we’ve made it this far. What makes us even more proud is the 15 years we’ve been together and the life we’ve built in that time. We’re a team, and I absolutely adore him.

Despite what some think (we sometimes get made fun of for this), we don’t always get along and we do argue, we just have a very strong bond and even stronger friendship. I used to wish that we had known each other from childhood. David would have definitely been my best friend.

We’ve been called, “too cute,” “lovebirds” and “all in all a great couple.” Such kind and humbling words. Those kind words mean so much to us. So much more that the person saying it could ever know. Our love needs encouragement, all love needs encouragement…and support. Marriage requires even more encouragement and support than we sometimes realize. I said before that I was proud of us for being together so long. It may sound strange, as though we’ve won some sort of award, but it’s true. I’m proud. Proud because marriage is difficult, really hard work, but I want and need my marriage to work. I love my husband and need him to be my husband.

Twelve years is a long time for anything. My mother asked the other day if this year would mark our twelfth anniversary, I responded, “Yes, didn’t you see the movie they made about us? It’s called, Twelve Years a Slave!” She didn’t laugh. I did! She really couldn’t believe it had already been 12 years since our wedding day.

Think about your life twelve years ago. How different were you? We were so different. So young. I was 23 years old. I knew a few things, not much, but I knew how to love. That was the easy part. After all, it’s so easy a child can do it. I never think about what I don’t know when it comes to love. It’s as natural as breathing. No one teaches you how to breathe, you just know. Think about any child you know and how they express love. My children, they hug me when I’m sad and stay by my side. They give me compliments, somehow knowing when I need one. They cheer me on and are my biggest fans. They surprise me with a beautiful drawing or painting specially made for me and they constantly say “I love you mommy.” The way they love is so similar to the way David and I love. Support, encouragement, unexpected kind gestures, loyalty, and constantly saying “I love you.” That’s what I need to feel loved, and that’s what I get. I’m a big believer that we should NOT follow the golden rule. Yes I said not.  I believe we should treat others how they wanted to be treated. Not how we want to be treated. The same with love and relationships. We should love others how they want to be loved. How they need to be loved. Not how we want to be loved or want to love them. That kind of love, giving the other what they need when they need it, that’s what’s lead us through the past 12 years.

I am overjoyed, 12 years, 3 kids, 2 non-profits, 1 business, lots of love and endless hopes and dreams. Blessed and grateful and excited for what happens in the next 12…as long as it doesn’t go by too fast.

Enjoy the weekend.

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Celebrating Valentine’s Day

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Valentine’s Day is one of my favorite holidays. Any holiday that celebrates love with chocolate and flowers works for me. Depending on where you are in your life this day may look different, but  no matter who you are or where you are in your life, you can still celebrate.

 

For The Kids

Most children have Valentine’s Day celebrations at school. Instead of buying treats or pre-made Valentine cards, I have my girls create treat packages for their classmates. It allows them to not only be creative, but add a personal touch, which is the best part of giving someone a special gift. Also, don’t forget the teacher, a special teacher deserves a special treat! We’re giving our special teachers triple layer chocolate macaroons from my new favorite bakery, Gaby et Jules, bravo!

For The Family

In the past we’ve celebrated two ways. I sometimes host a Valentine’s Day sleepover with my girls and my nieces. Usually the day before. Last year my oldest also invited a friend. They loved it! We had a great time playing games, watching movies and of course waffles (with fresh strawberries and whipped cream) in the morning. On Valentine’s Day, for dinner, my husband (who is an amazing chef) makes me and the girls an amazing “fancy” dinner, as my girls say. Last year we enjoyed filet mignon at our beautifully decorated dining room table.

This year we’re hosting a Valentine’s Day Family Dance party. We’ve invited other families to celebrate and dance with us. My girls really wanted to have a party and we love to dance. It’s going to be a very fun evening.

 For Your Partner

Just because there’s no date doesn’t mean my husband I don’t celebrate one another. My advice is to do something small but special. Although, I will never tell you not to, love does not require grand gestures. I absolutely love flowers so a beautiful bouquet usually gets me. If you know your partner well, it should be easy. This year, I may just need a day to sleep in and relax. Do you think my husband reads my blog? A surprise weekend trip, beautiful piece of jewelry, dinner at a fabulous new restaurant whatever you choose, think more of your partner than yourself.

 For Your Friends

Host a dinner party. Who doesn’t love an amazing dinner party? Champagne, beautiful décor, a lovely centerpiece and a great soundtrack in the background of wonderful conversation. Treat your friends to an amazing evening.

 Or

A night on the town. When in doubt go dancing! There’s nothing can can keep me off the dance floor, except a bad DJ. Take your best buds out for a night on the town. Dress up and get down (was that corny?) and enjoy the evening with your friends.

Whatever you do, take the time to celebrate the people you love and enjoy this day dedicated to love.

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My Weekend…Planned

soppressata

Fridays are all about the weekend plans. After a busy week, the weekends can be even more hectic! My weekends aren’t all fun but they are always well planned and productive.

Friday

This week was especially difficult. My daughter went through a terrifying experience at school so I’ve had to focus on her while still trying to handle clients and business. It’s been difficult. The morning will be focused around my do to list. A combination of tasks, both work and family related that I should have complete by noon. The afternoon will include; two interviews for clients, and details around an event I have planned for April as part of The Open Engagement Conference, an international conference being held in Pittsburgh for the first time. I’m super excited about this event and the artists I’m collaborating with.

I’m excited about the evening which includes the kick-off meeting for Style Week Pittsburgh, with the Founder and my fellow Style Week Ambassadors, followed by the arrival of my awesome sister in-law and her fiancé from California. A visit from them means a weekend of love, fun and laughter. I love when they visit especially to see how much they love and enjoy spending time my girls.

Saturday

In addition to the usual, wake up early, clean laundry, work, and my daughter’s CLO Academy classes, this Saturday is also the most exciting day of the year! Well, for my father in-law anyway. We’re making soppressata! If you know me, then you know that soppressata has quickly become one of my favorite things to eat. First because it’s made by my husband and his family and second, because it’s so delicious. If you don’t know… A specialty of southern Italy, soppressata is a cured, dry sausage, made from cuts of pork coarsely pressed or ground and hung to dry for a few weeks. This time of year means Italians everywhere are making soppressata, capicola (which they also make and is delicious) and other cured delights. This day is so special for my husband, he loves tradition, we both do. This year will be even more special with my sister in-law and brother in-law joining us.

Saturday evening will consist of the traditional family dinner after the soppressata work is complete. After that, I’ll be off to a friends birthday celebration.

Sunday

The first mission remains the same..MAKE IT TO CHURCH ON TIME! I know we can, I know we can. Then gathering with the Puglianos for another day of family fun. I always have to dedicate a few hours to work on Sundays, especially to prepare for the week. After that will be another family gathering for the Superbowl…wait whose playing?

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My Weekend…Planned

Ready to go!
Ready to go!

 

Fridays are all about the weekend plans. After a busy week, the weekends can be even more hectic! My weekends aren’t all fun but they are always well planned and productive.

Friday

I’m working from home today, no meetings except with my husband who is both co-founder of my family and business ventures. My work day will end at 3:00pm to get the kids from school. No bussing and no after school program on Friday means we have to get our kids from separate schools, across the city, at the same time! On, Fridays I need my husbands help to accomplish this mission.

Most days, after school pick-up, homework and snacks, I continue to work until dinner, but not today! My oldest daughter is trying out for Broadway producers hoping to earn a role in Mary Poppins! She’s been working so hard and I am so proud and excited for her! Next up? Roller skating! Yay! My husband will be taking the girls roller skating while I catch up with a friend. She’s been travelling for a little while and we have a lot to discuss. We’ll happily do so over a glass of wine while enjoying some great live music.

Saturday

I usually wake up at 5:45am or 6:00am. Make a cup of tea, straighten up the house and work for a bit before it’s time to get dressed and go. My oldest, has musical theatre from 9:00am to 1:00pm. I either drop her off and find a spot to get some work done or come back home  for laundry and more cleaning. My 7 year old, will start dance and art classes soon, I haven’t quite worked out that plan yet. Saturday afternoon is all about the girls and having lots of fun. This Saturday afternoon we’ll check out the new “Mr. Rodgers Neighborhood” exhibit at the Heinz History Center. We are all huge Mr. Rogers fans, and I personally feel a special connection, having met Mr. Rodgers and appearing on the show as kid. My kids think that is a big deal!

Saturday evening we’ll prepare and eat dinner together at home, and enjoy an evening of music, dancing (laundry in between) and a movie.

Before heading to bed, I’ll press and prepare our clothes for church.

Sunday

Sunday morning is all about Belgium waffles (with strawberries and whipped cream), the girls love my husband’s recipe. Then church, aka mission impossible. The goal every week still remains the same…to make it to church on time. It never gets easier! Going to church as a family is very important to us. Not only do I love mass but I love that hour with my family. The girls always squeeze together during mass. They hold our hands and show so much love and affection for one another. It’s a beautiful thing.

After church we’ll enjoy a nice quick lunch. After that it’s back to work for me. My husband will entertain the girls while I meet with a new client and prep for another meeting. Sunday evening I’ll prepare for the week. I review my work calendar, our family calendar and press the girls uniforms for the week.

The goal of a well planned out weekend is to make sure we get the important things done and still have some fun.  Even with so much to do, we stay flexible and down for whatever. We love spontaneous fun!