How does one do Sundance?

We are R Family Groupies. We love the vacations we've taken with R Family Vacations...that's no secret. On the 2004 cruise, an HBO documentary was filmed about families on the trip. Courtney got some air time with an interview on deck as the ship passed by the Statue of Liberty, Matthew at her side, Ellie on her lap. Even Rosie told her it was a very moving scene. I was at the bar - go figure. Anyway, it was announced today that the film (titled ALL ABOARD: ROSIE'S FAMILY CRUISE) was awarded a spot at the Sundance Festival! We're very excited.

We saw the film on last summer's cruise and I know I can't be ojective but it was a wonderful film. They're going to do a sneak preview in Denver this spring and I can't wait!!!

Thankful-icious

I didn't do a Thanksgiving post on Thanksgiving because I wasn't feeling particularly thankful. Call it an energetic and exhausting toddler, an argument over discipline with my partner...or just plain PMS. Thanksgiving wasn't the best day for me. Now that I'm feeling better, here's what I'm thankful for (in no particular order):

1. an energetic and exhausting toddler
2. a wonderful partner who cares about parenting as much as I do
3. a pre-teen step son who loves his little sister
4. friends from Chicago who make me laugh my ass off
5. lavender martinis
6. beer. any beer (especially after my 30 day cleanse - so much for being cleansed)
7. RENT, the movie (I know the reviews were not-so-good, but I loved it)
8. my parents who seem to love me more every day
9. good health
10. the Colorado climate and 300 days of sunshine every year
11. the holiday season
12. good music
13. good friends
14. good food
15. the chance to make my life better every day. I know I make mistakes and I love that I have a partner who allows me to do it better next time...and to make decisions every day that make us good parents, good partners, good people.

Me by my Grandma's Car

car
Originally uploaded by mamalicious1.

This is my photo Sunday contribution, even though it's really Monday!

Love the outfit

Love the outfit
Originally uploaded by mamalicious1.

I still wonder how in the world I got a daughter that is such a girlie girl! My mom says that ultimate justice is being done because my baby is the complete opposite of her mother. I love it, though...every bit. Never imagined how much fun it would be...

20 Things I Like

1. snow (it's snowing HARD right now)
2. my daughter's smile when she first wakes up
3. chocolate chip cookies
4. dark chocolate truffles from Harry and David
5. a good book
6. a good movie
7. grande double nonfat cappucino from Starbucks
8. stupid drama-filled TV movies
9. showtunes
10. Go Dog Go! (I have a newfound love for this book)
11. soy nuts
12. remote control
13. getting the mail
14. going out to dinner
15. skiing (even though I'm terrible at it)
16. iTunes
17. People magazine
18. riding the light rail
19. beer
20. playing with Polly Pockets (with my daughter, of course)

Grandma's Gone...But Still Here

Grandma Brown died late Saturday night. I arrived in Indianapolis just in time to see her before she closed her eyes for the last time. It was worth every penny and every amount of effort to be with her for those few minutes to say good-bye.

Grandma loved us all as unconditionally as anyone I've ever known. She weathered our storms and still made us cookies and gave hugs whenever we needed either. Her spirit will continue to live and keep our extended family connected. God bless Grandma.

Jo Jo and Kristin

Today I learned that a blogging friend's daughter has passed away. I can't imagine the pain that one experiences with the loss of a child. Jo Jo has always exhibited an amazing strength, compassion and dedication that I hope some day I can possess, too. Her daughter Kristin had just the right mom to care and love for her like no one else could. Say a special prayer for them today and in the coming days.