Van Nesting

A Place to Call Her Own, Part II

2012-01-30T14:02:00.000-05:00

After posting this photo on Facebook recently,

a friend of mine brought to my attention that I never posted an update on Eliza’s room since posting my initial progress. Since it is finally done (for now anyways), I thought it was a good idea to show how far we've come.

I’ll start with Eliza’s favorite design piece, her rug.

A gift from my mom, Eliza loves her rug. And who can blame her, it’s the. softest. rug I’ve ever laid...feet on. Eliza rolls around on, hugs, rubs, and kisses her rug daily.

She also loves her bed. And the photos above it. She checks them out every so often and gives me a satisfactory smile. Can’t ask for more than that. The pendant above her photos was bought in London to match her toddler bed set, but it was so cute, I had to put it up now.

She has to sleep with all three of her favorite blankets: the white one that her Mimi made her, the patchwork knitted one from her friends in London, and the cable-knit one that came with her Moses basket.

And her two best buds, Snuffles and Molly, of course.

Moving on to the left side of her room...

...we have the glider that my mom skillfully sewed for us, along with the curtains that were recently hung. I can’t tell you how happy I was to finally take down her ugly (yet useful!) construction paper black out shades. It made such a big difference in the room.

A daily reminder (which is mostly ignored).

My mom sure does know her way around a sewing machine!

Next to the glider, is of course the bookshelf. This bookshelf was made for my mom by her father, passed on to me, and now Eliza. We have some of her very special books on top and her favorite nighttime books on the bottom. Hanging above is a frame with some pretty handkerchiefs we've collected: one that Scott and I bought her in London that was embroidered with an ‘E’ and one that my aunt gave to me for my wedding day.

Above the glider is a shelf that my mom bought and I painted. Hanging on it are Eliza’s tutu, a firelady’s hate, her fairy wings and a beautiful gown Eliza’s cousins gave to her. Sitting on top is her tea cup collection from Daddy and her Uncle Doug, along with several other special knick-knacks.

On the right side of her room...

...is her printer’s box from London filled with all of her tiny treasures, including the Empire State Building, a shell from South Africa from a girlfriend of mine, a tiny pig my from my family's printer's box, her collector’s plate from the Royal Wedding (much to Scott’s disdain), and much more.

And, of course, her dresser. We have her changing pad on one side and a couple special items on the other.

A girl has to have good silver! The baby cup was a gift from our dear friends in Norwich, England and the brush came from Eliza's Great Auntie Caroline.

And finally, here’s a closer view of the color we picked, Crushed Peony. It’s a nice light pink/purple/gray that gives the room just enough hint of color.

I’ve waited and waited to have a room to decorate for my little girl. I’m so happy that she finally has a room to call her own, but more importantly, that she loves it as much as I do.

In His Shoes

2012-01-25T14:42:00.000-05:00

In the two weeks leading up to the Christmas holiday, when Scott and I were separated, I had the heaviest feeling of sadness come over me. I missed him something terrible, yes, but it was something deeper than that. After organizing my thoughts and emotions, I realized that my heart was absolutely stunned and broken over the fact that next Christmas he would be missing everything.

The shopping for Eliza, the parties, the decorating, admiring the tree by the warmth of the fire, the annual Christmas movies. He’ll be missing it all. My heart ached at every little thing I saw that reminded me of him -- our old condo, the opera house where we had our wedding, the places we love to dine.

Then it hit me how incredibly selfish I was being. My wonderful husband who gave me such encouraging and supportive words as I whined about him missing everything never once mentioned how he would feel during his absence. As I cried over having to wake up in our house on Christmas morning and watch Eliza open her gifts without him, he never brought up how he would be feeling, on a ship, in the middle of the ocean with no family to be seen or even heard. As I asked who would take me out for my birthday dinner, upset that I would be missing a night out on the town with my husband, he never came back with a ‘Well, what about my birthday’, or the like. Or when I was sad over having to do Eliza’s second birthday party without him by my side, he didn’t say a peep about how he would miss Eliza’s day-to-day for nine whole months. He simply consoled me and offered warm words of comfort. Once I put myself in his shoes, I began to feel completely different about the whole situation.

It’s going to hurt like hell for us when we watch that ship pull away this spring, but not nearly as much as it’s going to hurt him. He’ll have twice the pain, for he’ll be missing both of his girls. I know that he would do anything to be with us everyday -- tantrums, teething, crankiness (and I'm, unfortunately, not just talking about Eliza here) and all. He’s just that kind of guy. He loves his family more than anything in this world.

But that’s why he does it -- that’s why he sacrifices nine months at a time with us. So that he can selflessly protect us with all of his might. And not only does he do it for us, but he does it for his pride and love for our country. His job is one of the most thankless but he does it anyway. There are times when his pay is messed up and he’s never compensated, but he continues to work. He has to wake up at 4:15am and won’t get home most days in enough time to even see Eliza, but he doesn’t complain.

I suppose the poor guy thinks that I do enough complaining for the two of us. Regardless, we’re so appreciative, thankful and grateful for his job, as it has been incredibly good to us. As hard as times can get being a part of the military family, we’re proud to be a part of it.

We’re happy that those shoes of his are part of that unmistakable uniform that represents honor, pride, integrity and freedom.

And, more importantly that, eventually, those shoes always come home to us.

A Small Dose of Perspective

2012-01-24T15:06:00.000-05:00

The last two weeks have been hard.

Monumentally hard.

Scott left for a month-long underway.Two days later Eliza began sprouting molars and subsequently decided to give up one of her daily naps.

I’ve screamed. She’s screamed. We’ve both cried. We both miss her daddy. We both are exhausted. And we are both lonely.  It’s been incomparable to any other time in our lives. At this point, we only have each other but our strong personalities were only turning us against one another.

It’s been a humbling two weeks, to say the very least. Especially when I read about Baby Tripp, this mother's love, or just one of the many thousands of families who lost someone who was fighting for our freedom.

Regardless of how my toddler is acting, whether or not my husband is home or how badly I’m feeling for myself, I have to stop and remember every once and a while how incredibly blessed and fortunate I am.I have a husband who worships the ground I walk on and thinks our daughter hung the moon. We don’t have to worry about whether or not Scott will have a job tomorrow, how we’re going to put food on the table or whether to pay the electric bill or buy diapers. As of right now, we are all active and healthy individuals who are able to do anything we put our minds to. Simply put, we are favored beyond belief.

And while I do feel silly for feeling so overwhelmed by my tiny 14-month-old, I need to mentally stop time and memorize just how perfect she is, regardless of how ornery or unruly she’s being (for that only ever lasts but for so long). I need to remember how pink her adorably chubby cheeks are. How purply-blue her big beautiful eyes are behind her long and full eyelashes. The silly facial expressions she makes. How her hair is in the shape of a hurricane symbol, swirling and swirling, leaving a tiny bald spot right in the center of her head. Oh, her tiny, plump, curious hands. How she kicks her feet up and down, up and down when she’s excited. How she blows kisses and waves goodbye whenever she reaches for her purse. How she claps at the end of every single song she hears, even if it’s just a snipit. How incredibly loving and sweet she is. How much I love and admire her adventurous spirit. How I’m so proud of her each and every day at how brilliant she is. How when I ask her if she’s ready for bed she runs to her room, turns on her sound machine and runs circles on her soft rug waiting for me to tuck her in. How much she loves to ‘read’. I need to remember how she sees humor in nearly everything she sees and will let you know with the biggest from-the-belly laugh you’ve ever heard. How absolutely darling she looks cuddling her Molly and Snuffles when she is peacefully sleeping at night when I go to check on her. How she meows every morning until she finds Bella. How curious (and nosey) she is. I need to remember that my child, my sweet Eliza Lane, is simply a healthy, normal, perfect baby girl, who just so happens to be diagnosed with...toddlerhood. And that these issues we’ve had over the past week are indeed non-issues that we’ll have forgotten about by month’s end. We’re not dealing with a life-threatening illness, a loss or a burden so big that is shatters the world we’ve known. And for that, we are so grateful.

Having a bad day is part of life. And it’s okay to throw in the towel sometimes and just have a good whine about it. However, I always end each one of those days thinking to myself, ‘Well, the good thing about a bad day is that it’s just a day...tomorrow will always be better.’ And it always is.

I’m the first to admit that I live a wildly charmed life, filled with love, family, and comfort. Sure things get tough when Scott’s often away and missing things like holidays, birthdays, lazy Sundays and bath time. And dealing with a cranky toddler is never a walk in the park. Not to mention that starting over in a new (again) town, trying to find a good social network and people to call my friends is proving to be quite challenging. However, given the chance, I wouldn’t change a thing. It’s been hard before but I’ve always gained so much from my challenges and come out of it a better person.

Slowly, but surely, I think we’re coming to the end of this tumultuous two weeks we’ve had. Eliza is more and more herself every day and is adjusting nicely to our new schedule. She’s been quite cuddly and lovely to me all morning...so, hopefully, all has been forgiven. I can only hope that in those dark moments when I’m at my wit’s end she’s mentally pausing, tuning me out and thinking about all of my good qualities that she loves and doesn’t want to forget.

And that she feels as lucky to have me as I do her...even on the worst of days.

A Very Quick Update

2012-01-24T14:41:00.000-05:00

Well, that was a very long, unexpected hiatus from the blogging world! Between moving down to Virginia, celebrating the holidays and undergoing an underway for Scott, we’ve had our hands full.

When I left off, we had just celebrated our baby girl’s first birthday.Picking up today, she is 14-months-old.

Her thirteenth and fourteenth months were full of fun, celebration and family.

And walking.

Now that she's walking, she. never. stops.

And a move.

We managed to squeeze every last thing we own into the car and make our way to Virginia after we, sadly, said goodbye to our Newport girlfriends.

We moved down to Virginia the day before Thanksgiving, arriving just in time to head over the the Miles’ house for oysters and turkey.

In her Thanksgiving best.

Back with the fam.

Scott had to leave that weekend to finish up school in Rhode Island so Eliza and I spent some time getting the house in order. We wrapped up our two weeks sans Scott with a trip down to Alabama to attend my cousin's wedding.

Helping in the yard.

Unfortunately, I didn't get many photos in Alabama. But here's Eliza spending time with her new favorite cousin, Marshall, at the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame, location of the rehearsal dinner.

Once Scott re-joined us in Virginia, we got busy getting the house ready for our three visitors: our good friend, Doug (who was only staying for two nights), Scott’s parents and my dad (each staying for ten days). If I’m being honest, I must say that I was quite stressed about having such a full house over the holidays. However, I couldn’t have asked for a better two weeks. We truly had the most memorable holiday with our beloved family. And were all spoiled beyond belief.

With Uncle Dougie.

Mimi and Papa.

Grandfather.

Grandma.

Our little Christmas Fairy on Christmas morning.

Eliza's Christmas gift, a leather wing back chair.
What can I say? The girl has an eye for design.

Merry Christmas, 2011!

So, now that the holidays are over and things are back to ‘normal’, it’s time for Eliza and I to get into the swing of things in our new life here in Virginia.

The honeymoon is over, folks, and reality has hit us with sea duty...

...thank goodness for a good support system, a well-behaved daughter and e-mail!

Cheers to a happy, healthy and safe 2012!

A Little Girl Turns One

2011-11-16T16:09:00.001-05:00

*Please note, I'm currently working on changing the layout...it may take a while to tweak.

It’s hard to believe that a whole year has passed since our baby girl arrived. Over the past year, we’ve enjoyed every second of watching her grow, learn and develop into a little girl. She’s had quite an exciting first year and I hope that, through my documentation in words and photos, she’ll look back and be grateful for all that she’s done so far.

For Eliza’s birthday, we decided to take a family trip down to New York City for the weekend. So, we packed our bags and headed down...

Eliza slept most of the way and was bright eyed and bushy tailed when we arrived. We quickly checked into our hotel, changed into our party clothes and were off to The Plaza Hotel for afternoon tea.

We checked in and then used the spare time we had to wander around and check things out.

We've arrived!

Eliza wanted to stop and say hello to John, Paul, George and Ringo.

Then, it was time for tea. Eliza was an absolute doll. She truly behaved like a lady and had a wonderful time. The highlight for her, however, was the beautiful white table cloth. She was bizarrely blown away by the linens. She rubbed them constantly, with a look on her face that said These are the finest linens I ever have seen! I suppose the girl knows a good thing when she sees it.

"I've just GOT to get some of these!"

And she thoroughly enjoyed her Eloise tea, complete with PB&J, strawberry and cream, cucumber and grilled cheese sandwiches. Scott and I enjoyed our tea, as well. The Plaza sure knows how to wow.

Before we knew it, the piano was playing Happy Birthday and Eliza had a tiny chocolate cupcake and candle in front of her.

Not to be outdone by The Plaza, we had ordered cupcakes from my favorite Newport bakery, It’s My Party, and took one along. While Eliza showed a lot of interest in playing with the cupcake...nary a bite was taken!

We were so pleased with our afternoon at The Plaza. We wanted to do something very special and unique for our girl, so naturally, an afternoon tea for our Little English Miss was the perfect treat. We all enjoyed it and celebrated a wonderful first year as a family.

After we arrived back to the hotel, I was lucky enough to get to visit with my friend, Austin, whom I hadn’t seen in ages, while Scott took Eliza to our room for a nap.

Nap and visit complete, we were off to the Empire State Building. We took a nice, relaxing stroll down to Fifth and 34th, stopping to watch the ice skaters at Rockefeller Plaza (and see the beginning work of the annual Christmas tree) and taking in the sights and smells of New York. By about 9:30pm, we arrived and eventually made our way to the top.

It was SO brisk that night that Eliza and Scott only popped out for a minute before retreating inside to listen to the sounds of the jazz musician who was playing in the observatory. I, on the otherhand, nearly froze to death walking around outside, taking in the gorgeous city below me.

Finally, it was nearly midnight and time to head back to our hotel and call it a day. All-in-all, I’d say that Eliza had a fabulous first New York City-style birthday.

The next morning, we hurriedly made our way up Fifth Avenue to Laduree. Famous for their macaroons, Scott and I visited Laduree while in Paris and have talked about them ever since. So, when I found out that they just opened a shop in NYC, we had to visit.

After Laduree, we had plans to meet Scott’s friend, Jake, in TriBeCa at a restaurant called Laconda Verde, for brunch. I couldn’t have picked a better place - quintessentially trendy NYC location, fabulous food (the apple cider donuts? I’ll talk about until I die.) and a darling staff. They do breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner - I highly recommend any of them.

Bellies full, we took a walk around TriBeCa and SoHo, stopping in Jack and Kate Spade and an adorably magnificent toy store (and judging staring in bewilderment at the line outside of Dash -- really?!). It was a perfect New York morning.

After saying our goodbyes to Jake, we hailed a cab and made our way back up to Central Park for a quick stroll before heading back to our hotel and getting Eliza changed into her Christmas dress for the Christmas Spectacular. When we arrived, this is how we found her:

So, we decided to have a seat and relax a while, too. We all really needed it.

Re-energized and hungry for lunch, we caught a cab to Times Square and met our friends from London, Mark, Mary Kim and their son, Zach, at John’s Pizza (divine, by the way!). Unfortunately, we only had a small window in which to eat and catch up before we had to be at Radio City Music Hall. Luckily, it was as though we had seen them yesterday and no time had passed at all (other than the fact that our babies had sprouted into kids).

We made it to Radio City and into our seats just in the knick of time. The show was exactly as I remembered -- whimsical, majestic and mesmerizing. I whispered to Scott during the show, “Do you think I still have a chance to become a Rockette?” He didn’t even take his eye off of the stage before simply replying, “No.” They truly are a talented bunch.

Eliza was so good throughout the show, sitting through the whole 90-minute production. She even applauded, danced and squealed in delight a couple of times. After the show, we bid farewell to Mark, Mary Kim and Zach and headed to the stage to meet my childhood friend and Rockette, Teneise, for a backstage tour. We were blown away by how everything looks backstage and how it all comes together so seamlessly for the show. We were so pleased and honored that Teneise was able to take us for a tour, and more importantly, visit with us after the show. It was a true delight!

On our backstage tour - Eliza got to meet Teddy, the camel!

After the show, it was time to head back to Newport. We had such a wonderful weekend together as a family and visiting with such great friends. It was one of our most memorable trips to date.

Once we returned to Newport, I wanted to have a little party for Eliza and her girlfriends, too. However, most of them ended up being sick, so only two of the six were able to make it. It was a more intimate gathering than we had anticipated, but fun and celebratory nonetheless. Her friends Adelyn and Baby Hadley were able to attend and celebrate with macaroons and pink lemonade. It was quite an adorable affair.

Singing 'Happy Birthday' once again.

Playing with Addie.

Poor baby was worn out after her big weekend and birthday party.
Who can blame her?!

It has truly been a wonderful year having Eliza in our life. I always tell Scott that life is just better and much more fun when he’s around. Well, the same rings true for that little girl. I couldn’t imagine my life any other way. And I’m so blessed that she chose us to be her parents.

Happy birthday to our expressive, big blue-eyed, adorably gapped-teeth
baby girl - we love you!

Making Progress

2011-10-27T20:03:00.000-04:00

Eliza and I went home for the month of September to do some work on our new house. Scott joined us the first weekend and had planned to get his hands dirty, but Hurricane Irene had other plans (nonsense aside, he did get the gutters cleaned and lawn cleared before he left, bless him). The house was certainly move-in ready before the work I put into it but in the words of our painter, Mr Black (read this with a strong Scottish accent), “It looks like a really old Italian couple lived here prior to you.” The walls were all white with dark wood trim, making the whole house feel stale and dark. The outlets, outlet covers and most of the hardware hadn’t been touched since the house was built in 1981 and had grown quite dingy. There was no color, no personality and absolutely no charm...but tons of great potential.

I was fortunate enough to be able to get everything moved in and organized, but things are nowhere near complete and most things aren’t even in their permanent spaces. However, it’s a great start. And while I still have loads to do on the house, I feel so much better having spent that month working on making our new house feel more like our home. It was a very eye opening experience for me. Among other things, I learned:

I am not a painter. I did a great job for being a complete novice, but it’s nowhere near perfect. It’ll do for now (it will have to, for I am not touching a paintbrush for the next several years).

I will never, ever use wallpaper. For no reason other than I never wish to dump the work and pain on anyone who has to remove it. Not fun. (I think my mom and Alex agree.)

Updating a house is expensive. Much more than we had anticipated (yay!).

We need a lot of furniture. I mean, a. lot.

Trying to do minor renovations on a house is positively impossible with a 10-month-old in tow (hence the month that it took me to simply scratch the surface).

I couldn’t have done any of this without the help of my mom, brother, Lindsay and two other friends who graciously and enthusiastically offered to help me paint.

I’m very proud of the hard work and love I put into this house. It will always remain a work in progress, but the initial effort was a kick ass labor of love.

So, without further ado, I will share some of the progress I’ve made thus far.

(Please forgive the poor photography -- I literally ran into the house and shot these on my way out of town.)

Living Room

The color, Barely Jade, turned out beautifully (and we loved it so much that we used it in our bedroom, too) and the white fire place really makes a world of difference as it offers more light and really opens up the room. We still have to replace the ceiling fan, buy end tables, mount the television and put some lamps out. But it’s such a bright and beautiful space. Thank goodness, since it’s where we’ll spend most of our time.

Kitchen

As you can see in the before picture, the kitchen needs some work. While we’re not ready to do a complete kitchen renovation quite yet, we did freshen it up a bit with the removal of the wallpaper and the addition of a fun color, Tidewater. My mom is recovering the kitchen table chairs with a fun white and Tidewater-y blue polka-dotted print and I’m giving the table a fresh coat of white paint. I think it’ll tie everything together nicely. I also have my eye on (and have pointed Scott’s eyes towards) some beautiful French cooking themed prints that will go perfectly on our bare walls.

Dining Room

This is the room that I had the most trouble with when it came time to pick a color. I wanted something that would go with all seasonal decorations and also our dishes. In the end, I decided on Lemongrass. And while this is also the room where I am least crazy about the color, I smile every time I see its cheerful green. As you can see, we had the frosting-like ceiling smoothed out and I took down (or rather, Alex took down) the chandelier and painted it white (it’s a cheap, cute, yet temporary fix). The table was generously handed down to us just in the nick of time, otherwise, we’d all be eating Christmas dinner on the floor -- thanks, Carolyn!

Laundry/Mud/Utility Room

My favorite color in the whole house - Butternut Squash. It’s so cheerful and bright -- perfect for the dreaded laundry room. Another perfect addition to the room? My new front loaders (something I only dreamed of while living in London with my tiny, useless dual purpose machine). The floating cabinet in the back of the room I plan to repaint and use as storage for pool necessities (SPF, sunglasses, towels, floaties, etc.) And did you notice the awesome hall tree?

Guest Bath

This is one of my favorite before/after shots. I absolutely love this navy blue color, Mariner. I didn’t think I would love anything so bold so much, but I’m crazy about it. With the crisp white shower curtain and towels, it really looks sharp. I still have plans to change out the hardware and lighting (and eventually replace the tropical looking tub).

Eliza’s Bath Loo

I painted the walls the same gray as the hallway (which I don’t have pictured). It’s softer than in the pictures (and her towels are pink, rather than the red color they appear to be) and goes so nicely with her shabby-chic shower curtain and rug. I especially love her ‘The Loo, London, England’ sign that I picked up at a thrift store in Richmond, VA. Perfect for our English Miss.

Master Bedroom

Since we have black furniture, I wanted something that softened the room a bit and I think the Barely Jade color and white trim does exactly that. Plus, I absolutely love our engagement portrait above the bed -- it goes nicely with the gray/blue and gives the room a gorgeous pop of color. I still need to add another bedside table and small bench, not to mention some more personality on the walls, but it’s coming together nicely.

Security System

Along with our ADT security system, we have Clementine the Gnome to watch over things while we are back and forth.

Home Sweet Home

The yard still needs a lot of work, but we are lucky that it is relatively easy to maintain. We have a lovely neighbor who has been taking care of our front yard while we’ve been away (and even while I was there) and an awesome brother who has been maintaining the back (along with a laundry list of other things). I have plans to rip up some of the mess in the backyard and replace with hydrangea and peony bushes...but they are simply plans at this point, for I have no green thumb. I am counting down the days until we open the pool. Once we get our sun chairs, deck furniture and a swing set for Eliza, I don’t think we’ll ever leave our backyard.

I absolutely love our new home and am so anxious to pack up and permanently move in. I get excited thinking about it and cannot wait for the many happy years that we have ahead us. It’s the perfect house for us, projects and all.

The Wonderfully Boring Days of Fall

2011-10-24T16:48:00.003-04:00

For some bizarre reason, I have always looked forward to the ‘boring’ days of adult/parenthood -- the lazy days spent with the family, just enjoying each other’s company. Yes, we’re a family filled with wanderlust and adventurous spirits, but we're just as happy simply putzing around town and lazing around the house, too.

Lately,

We laze around in bed for a while...

Then, we eat breakfast.

Eliza helps Daddy with the chores...

...and with making Mama's coffee.

Next, there's playtime with Portly (and the rest of the toys)...

And lots of reading.

Sometimes we swing at the park...

Sometimes, we have to run errands at Target (and play dress-up)...

Sometimes, we go to the beach...

And, sometimes, we play with our girlfriends.

Then, we take a long nap (and wake up with fabulous bed head).

After nap time, Eliza checks her itinerary and lets us know what she's planned.

She often includes picnics in the park...

And tickle time, too.

Which sometimes, results in bumps and bruises.

And sometimes, she misbehaves and ends up in time out...

And then tries to run away.

But most of the time, she likes to get bundled up...

...and explore (she's a fantastic pumpkin hunter).

Every once and a while, she has a party to attend.

And when she's feeling generous, she treats us to fabulous dinners (she's a good tipper, too, btw!).

But, most of the time, she doesn't care where she is or what she's up to, so long as she's with the ones she loves.

It's exhausting being this wonderfully boring.

The Jessica Van Nest Guide to London: A Non-Intellectual's Perspective

2011-09-27T21:14:00.000-04:00

A friend of mine who is visiting Londonin the coming weeks wrote me recently asking for a local’s perspective of London. I excitedly wrote her back, tracking all ofmy favorite places to eat, shop and play.

(And then was depressed for a solid day. I miss our days in London.)

Anyway, here is what I have affectionately dubbed TheNon-Intellectual’s Guide to London.

FOOD

Obviously, I have to recommend our very favorite restaurant, Poem. It's off the beaten track and, in my veryhumble and non-foodie opinion has some of the best food in London. And it was a stone's throw away fromour house, on the corner of Abbey Road and Boundary Road. I honestly have dreams about visiting London and goingback to Poem...they have the most wonderful owners, nicest staff and amazing food - the lamb stew andbread and butter pudding are to.die.for. We became regulars, visiting at leastfour times a week...so if you go, please give them our best.

The best place for Fish n’ Chips is The Clarenceon Whitehall.

Gordon's Wine Bar is also a really cool place and the oldest wine bar in London.I would just go for wine/cheese/bread...it gets really crowded and I don'tthink the mains are worth it.

For an awesome atmosphere, great music and dancinggo to Ronnie Scott's, Europe's first jazz club. We only went to Ronnie's Bar, rather than theclub - cheaper and more our style.

For great tapas food, Fino. Awesome date restaurant and it’s the firstplace we went without Eliza.

The best Indian food is at Meghna,on Boundary Road/Abbey Road...wemiss them dearly, too.

Haveafternoon tea at The Langham (my fave), The Ritz or Claridges.

Buy lots of cookies from Ben's Cookies (Holy macadamia nut white chocolate cookie...).

Youhave to try Hummingbird Bakery - my favorite cupcake is theBlack Bottom and Scott raves over the brownies.

SHOPPING

Ifyou knit, stop into Tricolette (again, on Boundary) and say hi to Lynne for me- she's the nicest lady you'll ever meet. In fact, if you're in the neighborhood, popin anyway and say hi.

VisitFortnum & Mason for teas, coffees and other awesome non-cheesy souvenirs.(Their Connoisseur's Blend of coffee is really good - I am wishing I broughtback more with me as I just ran out!)

Make sure to go to Daunt Books on Marleybone High Street (my favorite of all High Streets).Best book store. Old, creaky, charming...

BrowseLiberty of London. Heaven.

Great weekend markets: Chelsea, Borough Market, Camden, Portobello Road (Notting Hill), just to name a few.

Ihated Harrod’s…but if you still want the big department store experience, go toSelfridges.

TO DO

Takethe London Bus tour - you can get tickets right outside Baker Street Station -any of the companies are good.

Do the London Eye - such a great view of London. I recommend doingit at dusk. We did the champagne dusk flight on our last night in London and it's somethingI'll never forget.

Listen to Big Ben chime - it'll send shivers upyour spine. Big Ben is my favorite landmark in London.

Take a picnic to Regent's Park and watch thepeople...

The SoHo and Covent Garden's neighborhoods arereally fun....Mayfair is fun to wander through…Bond Street forI-could-never-afford-that shopping…Kensington High Street is a fab place forshopping and cafes.

MISCELLANEOUS TIPS

Definitely get an Oyster card as soon as you can.It'll make using the public transportation easier; just swipe your card and go.I highly recommend the buses and the tube - such a great way to get around.

If you don't use public transportation, the black cabs are fantastic. London has the smartest,nicest cabbies. They have to go to school for 3-5 years in order to drive a cab.

If you want to use a hiredservice, I recommend Meadway.They are cheap and on time, most of the time anyways. If you don't have an idea of how to get fromthe airport to your hotel, I would definitely use them. I believe it's ₤32 -kinda pricey but worth every penny. Getting from Heathrow to Central London on the tube can be a long, confusing and frustrating trip.With Meadway, they greet you at the airport with a sign with your name (which,let's face it, is always cool) and take you to your door.

Use ATMs to get cash, not the money exchanges. The UK ATMs (or cash points)shouldn't charge you a fee for using them.

As far as tipping goes, it's not typically customary to tip your bartenders...wejust usually rounded up. Same with the cab drivers - although, if they werereally nice, I gave them ₤1-₤5 extra, depending on the length of the journey.

And, just a heads up, whenpaying at restaurants, they use a little portable credit card reader and swipeeverything right there - it's really convenient and I wish they would bring it over to the States.

And speaking of going torestaurants - the waiter and waitresses won't bother you like they typically doevery two minutes here in the US.Sometimes it's nice, sometimes, like when you're trying to pay and leave, it'sannoying - just be patient. And if you want water, be sure to ask for tap water, otherwise they'll bring you still (purified) or sparkling. And be sure to ask for ice if you want it cold!

Dress-wise, take layers. Londoncan feel like summer on one block and winter on another. And wear comfortableshoes however, if you wear trainers, you'll have American written all over you(not that that's a bad thing).

Go see a West End show, drink a warm beer, browse one of the many (FREE!) world-class museums, try new foods, talk to strangers (if you dare - your friendliness may be mistaken for insanity), take in the amazing London view from the Waterloo Bridge...

Most importantly, take it all in and enjoy one of the most wonderful, beautiful, cultural and lively cities in the world!

The Not-So-Little Fireman that Could

2011-09-13T11:06:00.000-04:00

For the longest time, my brother had no idea what he wantedto do with his life. “I just don’t wantto be sitting behind a desk,” would be his only reply when asked. After high school, he enrolled in the localcommunity college and pursued his general studies associate’s degree, figuringit was a good enough start. During thattime, however, he had expressed interest in becoming a firefighter. So, while researching other things on hiscollege’s website one day, I discovered that they offered a fire scienceassociate’s degree, too. I excitedlycalled Alex and, despite the fact that he was almost done with his generalstudies degree, he applied for and enrolled in the fire science program, addingtwo years to his existing curriculum. Iknew then just how important this newfound dream was to him.

Receiving his two degrees and the next day receiving his EMT certification.

Two years and two degrees later, he enrolled in the Northeast North Carolina Fire Academy and became avolunteer firefighter for the MoyockFire Department. He was soenthusiastic about the training he received and the time he spent volunteering – when I would call from London, he shared stories and experiences andwould be so amped for everything that lay ahead of him. I was so proud. When I asked him recently why he went downthere so often, knowing that the excitement in Moyock is less than exhilarating,he stated, “There’s a camaraderie with the guys down there – a brotherhood. I love it.” Needless to say, his devotion and commitment to the MFD was noticed andhe was asked by the Chief this summer to apply for a Lieutenant position. So, in just over a year, he climbed the ladder(pun intended) from simply a volunteer, to Sergeant to Lieutenant. Awesome.

Eliza's so proud of her Uncle Al.

As fulfilling as volunteering with the Moyock FireDepartment was, a paycheck of $0 bi-weekly wasn’t cutting it for Alex. Since graduating back in December of 2009, hehas been actively pursuing a career with a paying department. He’s applied to every department in HamptonRoads, getting as far as the Chief’s interview several times, only to get thatdreaded rejection letter in the mail a few short days later. Our hearts would break with his every singletime. He was so sick of the Look at the bright side, It’ll happen oneday rhetoric we fed him that it just simply didn’t matter any more. He knew he had our support but it was reallywearing on him. Despite all of theheartache, however, he never quit trying. He never gave up. He persevered andit paid.

Alex received the call yesterday that held those four littlewords he’s been dreaming of for years now – official offer of employment. And with the city he was most keen on, toboot. Starting October 17, 2011, mylittle brother will begin the Virginia Beach Fire Academy and a short time later become aVirginia Beach Firefighter. I couldn’tbe more proud, more excited or more happy for him. His devotion to his dream, his passion forfirefighting and his commitment to saving lives makes him a hero to so many,but especially me.

(And I must say, he’s had a pretty awesome lady by his side to see him through it all.)

A Place to Call her Own

2011-08-31T10:48:00.000-04:00

Since I can remember, I always dreamed of bringing home my baby to a beautifully decorated nursery, where every little detail would have been created with so much thought and love. Unfortunately, Eliza didn’t have a beautifully decorated nursery in her first home in London, nor does she in her second home in Newport. However, the wheels have been endlessly turning for months now as I have been preparing to create Eliza’s first room. Her own little spot in the world.

While it was somewhat heartbreaking bringing Eliza home to a room with simply four white walls and a Pack n’ Play (first world problems, people), I certainly have had the benefit of being able to collect things throughout her short almost-10-months of life that have special meaning to the three of us. Her nursery won’t be a page from a Pottery Barn catalogue or a display at Babies R’ Us. It’ll be a page from Eliza Lane’s story and nearly every last detail will display some sort of special meaning to the three of us.

Some of my favorite things that I’ve been working on…

Beatles Triptych

The moment Eliza came into the world, our midwife, Doreen, began singing ‘All You Need is Love’ to her. I will never forget that moment and consider it Eliza’s song.
‘In My Life’ was playing on the radio in the nursery for all the babies when Scott and I picked up our brand new little one following short night’s rest. The song played on repeat in my head for days after – it never fails to make me smile and think back to that most happy moment every time I hear it.

And, since Eliza’s first house was off Abbey Road (and we crossed the famed zebra crossing daily), I thought the famous Beatles' Abbey Road album cover was the perfect fit.

Eliza’s Silhouette

I had a silhouette made and then altered it to include her monogram and pearls.

Eliza goes to Paris

Whenever we see a picture of the Eiffel Tower, I tell Eliza she has been to Paris three times. And she was; in utero. One of my favorite baby bump pictures is the one of me us in front of the Eiffel Tower.

In the Navy

A shout out to Dad.

Proper Sleeping Arrangements

For the first six months of Eliza’s life, she slept in a Pack n’ Play. Bless her. But with living in London for the first three months of her life and in a hotel for the next three, a crib wasn’t an option. Finally, we bought the girl a crib.

Colors

Originally, I wanted very pale gray walls with light pink and white accents throughout the room. Then I saw Crushed Peony from Behr and never looked back. It matched Eliza’s bumper of ruffles and bows perfectly. With the white trim, it’ll be elegant and girly without being over the top.

Other Little Bits that I Love

Words to live by: Keep Calm and Carry On and Live Life on Purpose.

Another reminder of London.

A fun, colorful pennant that she's already wild about.

Once we add the other pieces that we have collected over time and complete painting, hanging and arranging, I think her room will be exactly what I envisioned years ago...

We are currently in Virginia, visiting to do some house projects, and I am more than ready to start work on my sweet girl’s room. It’s the room I am most excited about, the one I have dreamt longest about, and the one of which I am most proud. And in December, my baby girl will be able to come home to her beautiful, thoughtfully created nursery, at last.

In the meantime, there’s a sweet little girl, a pile of frames and countless other pieces of Eliza’s world we’ve collected…all waiting to come together to create the place she will call her own.

The Couch that Almost Died

2011-08-22T16:38:00.000-04:00

For the past couple of months, Scott and I have talked non-stop about the changes and updates we are planning to make in our new home. For a short time, we were thinking about purchasing a sectional sofa to fit in living room. The layout is kind of wonky and a sectional is really the only answer to making things flow more easily and look more aesthetically pleasing. We even had ‘the one’ picked out. And although it seemed a bit silly since we already have a nice young couch on which to rest our tired bums, the sectional just made sense.

But then I started thinking about the couch we already own. Sure, she’s a bit grimy due to the filthy gorgeous London air, but that can easily be taken care of. And while she may be a bit broken in, she’s perfectly molded to our bodies.

Not to mention...

...it was the first big purchase Scott and I made as a married couple, just days before moving across the pond to London.

...it’s where we sat, excitedly opening gifts from one another, as we celebrated our first Christmas as husband and wife.

...it’s where we would curl up on those quintessentially rainy London days and watch hours of television, veg out and grow old together.

...it’s where we watched football - either very late at night or the morning after - and longed to be back in the US where we could watch in real-time, tail-gate and cheer our teams on with our family and friends.

...it’s where Scott and I sat, drinking our morning coffee, as we made the big decision that he would stay in the Navy and that we would shoot for a tour in Hawaii, then settle down in Norfolk and start a family five years down the line.

...it’s where I was sitting the very next day when Scott walked in the door with two bouquets of flowers after the phone call he received at work with the news that I was expecting.

...it’s where we discovered Mad Men, Cougartown and The Vicar of Dibley. And watched countless episodes of Law & Order: SVU and House during the weeks leading up to Eliza’s long-awaited arrival.

...it’s where our friends would gather - with their kids and a cup of coffee or a glass of wine in hand - and share the frustrations and joys of being an expat.

...it’s where my mother-in-law taught me to knit.

...it’s where we collapsed, in a state mixed of excitement, exhaustion and shock, when we brought Eliza home for the very first time.

...it’s where Scott would give Eliza her 4am feedings while telling her magical stories of fairies and dragons in far away lands.

...it’s where I took loads of naps with my newborn baby girl, both of us exhausted from this new world into which we were thrown.

...it where’s my friend Pamela and I sat, both of us brand new mums, and chatted endlessly about our love for new daughters and how they were going to be the best of friends one day.

Our couch joined our family at the very time we became a family.

It's almost as though she's an actual part of us.

And we’re just not ready to part with her quite yet.

I Ate My Weight in Lobster (Or, A Visit from Mimi)

2011-08-19T13:07:00.000-04:00

I can check that one off of my bucket list!

Back in June, Scott’s mom, or Mimi as she’s now called, flew out to Newport for a 10-day visit. We always love having her around, but having her here was the perfect excuse to eat lobster and clam chowdah nearly every day (no exaggeration).

Mimi arrived just in time to celebrate Scott’s 30th (!!!) birthday and Father’s Day. Being the BBQ enthusiasts that we are, we decided to have a small gathering. And no small gathering is complete without burgers, Steve’s Magic Potatoes, Pimm’s Lemonade and homemade Hummingbird Bakery brownies. So to the kitchen and grill we went...

Bringing a little bit of London to Newport.

Deadly.

Stuffed from all of the food, happy from the Pimm’s and Scott truly feeling the love on his very first Father’s Day and very first day of this 30s, we fancied our celebration a success.

Later that week, Mimi, Eliza and I decided to take a day trip to Cape Cod. We hit the road without a plan...

And arrived on the Cape.

We stopped in Hyannisport for a fabulous lunch of Fish n’ Chips.

And then made our way back to Sandy Neck Beach for some time in the sun.

Eliza liked eating the sand rather than playing in it.

While we didn’t get to explore too much, we had a great time driving around the little towns and soaking in the quaint New England charm.

Later in the week, we made our way over the two big bridges to the mainland and found ourselves in the old-fashioned town of Wickford. Filled with sweet little shops that make you say, ‘Awww!’, we lazily made our way through town. Not before, however, stopping for a lunch of chowdah and lobster rolls and a double-scoop ice cream cone.

Adorable Wickford, RI.

The following weekend, we headed up to Kennebunkport, Maine. Home of #41 and #43 (US Presidents, that is). Staying in the adorable Green Heron Inn, all four of us immediately fell in love with the old-timey feel of the 50+-year-old B&B...and the absolutely divine breakfasts that the chef prepared each morning. I’ll soon not forget those incredible pumpkin pancakes I had on my last morning...

Walker's Point, home of the Bush Family.

We spent the day walking and shopping around Kennebunkport, stopping for ice cream, coffee, muffins...whatever peaked our taste buds. And all of this was before lunch. But lunchtime quickly came, and finally, we had arrived.

The legendary Clam Shack.

Famous for their lobster rolls, we all excitedly ordered and waited for our numbers to be called. The anticipation of the pound of lobster meat, lightly tossed with butter and mayo and gently placed between two fluffy, yet crispy pieces of white bread was killing us. It was truly like waiting at the top of the stairs on Christmas morning...

I tell you what, I thought I had died and gone to heaven (and there’s actually nothing to prove that I didn’t...). Each bite was so bittersweet - heavenly because it was SO delicious and devastating because it was another bite gone.

Bellies full and feet tired, we made our way back to the Inn for a blissful nap. For we had dinner reservations only a few short hours later.

My goodness, it's hard work being a world traveler!

Rested and ready for more lobster, we took the short walk next door to Mabel’s Lobster Claw for dinner.

Oh. My. Gosh. So good!

I can take him anywhere but out.

Another amazing meal. Another couple of pounds of lobster down...this was turning out to be one of our finest culinary trips yet.

The following day, we said goodbye to the Inn, took some pictures of Eliza rocking by the pond and headed down the coast of Maine.

We stopped by a Fireman’s Bizarre in York, Maine and bought Alex a local t-shirt.

There was even a Dalmatian in the passenger's seat!

We stopped for a short while at the Nubble Lighthouse (Cape Neddick, York, Maine) to take in the stunningly beautiful scenery and take a look at the (most photographed) lighthouse.

Love them. So much.

This is where Eliza had lunch...lucky girl!

Then, we crossed over the bridge into New Hampshire and made our way to Chauncey’s Creek for more lobster. Although it’s nothing fancy, Chauncey’s is, indeed, something to write home about. Everything from the service, to the view to the impeccably boiled lobster was phenomenal.

I was an expert lobster picker by the end of this trip.

We made one last stop by Annabelle’s Ice Cream for cones before hitting the road back to Newport.

After ten days of lobster, chowdah, wine and ice cream, it was time for Mimi to head back to San Antonio. And while we were sad to see her leave, our pants were not - needless to say, none of us stepped on the scale for weeks after her visit.

Hello, Goodbye

2011-08-17T11:26:00.001-04:00

It can sometimes be a lonely job being a navy wife. Moving from place to place, and staying somewhere just long enough to establish good friends before packing up and heading off to the next place where you have to start from scratch and do it all over again. It’s not that there isn’t loads of support for navy wives, as there are wives’ groups for every command, but that’s certainly no guarantee for automatic friends. It takes time to establish great relationships. And while the ladies you can meet via the wives’ groups can turn into lifelong girlfriends, it’s really tough being away from the ones you already hold so dear.

I have very few close girlfriends. Maybe because, in my adult life, I have never been somewhere long enough to establish more than a couple. But, I sometimes wish I was one of those women who had a handful of best friends; that I was part of a strong, fun and supportive group of women; that I had a Gayle. But, I suppose life isn’t an episode of Sex and the City and I am, indeed, not Oprah Winfrey (although, wouldn’t that be nice!).

The few close girlfriends that I do have are sprinkled along the east cost and throughout the UK. And I long for the days where I could meet for coffee on a whim, have once-weekly girls’ nights or stroll through the neighborhood with a friend by my side. Inevitably, saying goodbye to the friends I become so used to seeing regularly and hearing from on a daily basis is always the toughest part of relocating.

And it’s especially hard leaving good ‘couple’ friends - you know, where the four of you share such a great dynamic that you can carry on until 3am - even though there are babies to get up with in the morning - because you’re having a really great time (and lets face it, also because the martinis and champagne are really great). Scott and I really enjoy people - and when we find those certain ones that we just click with, they’re lifelong treasures.

But being so far away from all of my friends, having to start all over with none of them by my side, is so lonely at times. It absolutely makes my day when I see a message in my inbox from one of my close girlfriends. It may be the written word versus the spoken, but it’s the knowledge that she was thinking of me. It makes me feel so much less alone in a place where I really am on my own.

The up side to all of this, however, is that we have friends scattered all over the world. That when we do get to see our good friends, it’s as though no time has passed at all. That we have friends from all different backgrounds, cultures and experiences. That we will always have someplace interesting to visit.

While I am still finding my stride here in Newport, I will soon be leaving. Naturally, this means that I am on my way to making really great friends, only to say goodbye in December as I head to Chesapeake. And even though Chesapeake is where I call home, I will be starting all over again there, too.

As hard as it is to pick up and move every couple of years (or months, as has been our case), the friends that we have established have been worth the heartache. It took me a long time to make my friends in London but the friends I made there, I know, are lifelong. And the same will ring true for Newport, Chesapeake and wherever else the navy may take us. It’s a hard and lonely life sometimes, but what makes it worth it are the friends you make, and keep, along the way. (And the great places they send you doesn't hurt either!)

Like Mother, Like Daughter

2011-08-16T11:43:00.000-04:00

Dearest Eliza,

Of the many things in this world that I love, sleep and schedules rank very high. And in your short nine months of life, I have bragged endlessly about how great of a sleeper and how well-scheduled you are. You’ve made your mama very proud.

Well, within a matter of days, my darling, you started crawling, you turned the big 0-9 (months) and your devotion to your schedule and naps went out the window. You quickly became the independent and strong-willed girl I always knew you were going to be.

Needless to say, we had a tough week.

This about sums it up.

One day, a short week ago, you were my little baby girl, scooting around on your bum or twirling around on your back in order to get from one place to the next. You were my steadfast baby girl who woke at 730a, napped from 930a-11a, then again from 1p-230p and went to bed for the night at 7p. Religiously. You were a dependable little 8-month-old.

Then, you turned 9-months-old. And instead of wiggling your way through the living room to get what you wanted, you learned how to crawl. And with that, you went from being my baby girl to my little girl. Also with that, came attitude. An attitude that, rather than abide by the schedule that we carefully built around your sleeping and eating patterns, we would eliminate any daytime routine so that you could practice your new skill. And while I am deeply proud and incredibly excited for you to begin crawling your way through life (until you can walk, that is), you made it incredibly difficult on the two of us last week.

We fought. A lot. I think I got a glimpse into our future 12 years down the line...and unless the two of us have a major attitude adjustment by then, it’s not going to be all roses and rainbows like it has been.

We both failed to act our own ages - acting like toddlers with the fits we threw. I got acutely frustrated with you. You laughed at me. You had me in tears. You laughed at me. I firmly placed you back onto your back in your crib again and again, only for you to a) stand right back up and b) laugh at me. I yelled at you. You laughed at me. I stormed in and out. You laughed at me. I, with desperation in my voice, pleaded with you to Please just go to sleep! You’re exhausted! And you laughed at me.

Thank you for putting things in perspective, little girl.

What’s the big deal if we fall off schedule for a few days? I don’t know why I was so worried about losing control over our daily routine. Perhaps I was being selfish and wanted those couple of hours of alone time that I so dearly cherish every day. Maybe I was worried it would spill over into bed time (it didn’t). I could have been threatened with the task of figuring out a whole new routine. Who knows.

But I am sorry. I am so sorry that I got so frustrated and acted like a lunatic. You’re a child and you certainly don’t know any better. In your mind, you wanted to polish your new skill and show it off to the world, no matter how exhausted and cranky you got as you tirelessly practiced. And I am sorry that I didn’t see it that way at the time. I am so proud of your strong-willed personality and your persistence to achieve and perfect new things.

Luckily, after a few chats with our beloved Vicky, we came up with a new schedule. This one allowed you lots of time to practice your new tricks, yet still gave me the personal time that I crave every day. Our first trial was last Friday.

A good book, a cuppa, a cool Newport breeze...a much deserved three-hour retreat to my front porch.

And today, my love, you were as sleepy as could be come your normal 9:30a nap time. And sound asleep, you are right now. Perhaps you missed your routine after all.

You certainly know how to throw me for a loop, Eliza Lane. I love you, sweet girl.

Love,

Your Equally as Fickle and Strong-Willed Mama

Rock Stars Don't Have 401ks

2011-08-08T22:21:00.000-04:00

I’ll be honest. Scott and I have lived like rock stars ever since we were married two blissful years ago. We’ve been to some of the best restaurants, traveled to some of the most sought after places, and didn’t think twice about any of it.

Off the coast of Tenerife.

And now, we’re homeowners. With ‘real’ financial responsibility.

I was quite humbled yesterday while planning out our new budget (one that will require a mortgage + rent + utilities for both) for the remainder of the year. I was looking to see where we could cut costs, so I totaled up several different categories of spending. Much to my surprise, especially since we eat at home at least 5 nights a week, we had spent well over $A,TON on eating out in the last five weeks alone. I was shocked. And disappointed.

That number would mean something completely different if we weren’t parents, didn’t just buy a house or if we had two incomes. However, those are not the cases anymore. Scott and I have always had champagne taste...but we’re living on more of a mid-grade wine budget.

While we’re pretty good at saving, we’re even better at spending. A part of me thinks I would accept this situation differently if I was working outside of the home and we were a dual-income family. But probably not. We would still be spending excessively - buying what we want when we want it.

[Disclaimer: My only opinion of the whole SAHM v. Working Mom debate is that it’s a personal choice. One that only each unique family can make together. I think both decisions result in a wealth of benefits for the child and family as a whole. I do not judge either way. And wish not to be judged in return.]

We decided early on that we were going to be a single-income family. Even while dating, Scott and I had talked about that if we ever had kids, I would stay home with them. Growing up, my mom did’t get to stay at home with us, and I was so jealous of the kids whose mothers would be at home waiting for them when they jumped off of the school bus. I always dreamt of doing the same. And, luckily, I have a husband who supports that dream. However, that’s certainly not to say that I will never go back to work. I do plan to work again. Some day. But I am so blessed that I have the luxury to choose what kind of job I want, that I don’t have to depend on its income and that it’s something I will be able to commit to because I want to.

And while we’ve had to give up some things because of my not working outside of the home, they are things that we really don’t even miss anymore. We can still have fabulous nights out together, just not every week like we used to. I can still go to the spa, just not as regularly as I would like. We can still go shopping any time we wish, we just have to be more judicious about our purchases nowadays (which has certainly helped with closet space and clutter!). And, honestly, if that means I am free to be at home with my little girl every day - there when she wakes up, to have lunch with her, read her stories, go on walks with her and tuck her into bed every night - then I’d give it all up. No job, to me, is more important than mothering my daughter. And when looking back at my life one day, I will judge my personal success on how great of a mother I was and how grounded and happy of an adult my child(ren) turns out to be. (No pressure, Eliza.)

Do I miss working? Often. I miss the interaction with adults, getting dressed up every day and, undeniably, the paycheck every other week. It’s quite lonely sometimes and honestly, a little boring at moments. Do I feel like my brain has gone to mush in the last nine months? Yes. I can only sing ‘Old MacDonald’ a certain number of times in a day before I want to jump out of the window. I’m lucky if I stay clean for three hours once I bathe. And when I am finally able to leave the house - once feedings, naps and changings are over for an extended period of time - it’s 4:00 in the afternoon and I have to rush to get my errands done before Eliza’s 7:00 bedtime. (Now, she is quite a flexible baby, but I do try to adhere to her schedule most days, for both of our sakes.)

With all of that being said, however, I would not change a thing. Eliza is my pride and joy. She is what matters to me. No amount of money or professional success can change that. And I feel confident that Scott and I made the right decision for our family, for our daughter.

My pride and joy.

So, that brings me back to our current, albeit temporary situation. We have a lot of expenses coming up, including rent/mortgage, home renovations and travel. Will we manage to make all of these things happen? Of course. And while it’ll be a tight couple of months, we can do it. We chose this as our path and we’re proud of the decision that we made. If we got everything we wanted when we wanted it, we wouldn’t have nearly as much appreciation for and pride in our belongings. (But, it sure would be nice!)

For now, I just need to cut back on ~~our~~ my ridiculous excess spending. And learn to adjust to our newfound life as retired rock stars.

For the time being, anyways.

For we never seem to keep still for too long.

Thoughts on Blogging

2011-08-05T13:30:00.001-04:00

Someone asked me recently why I blogged. The short answer is, Because I like to.

The long answer...

I began this blog over 2 years ago (I cannot believe it’s been that long!) as a way to record and share the stories of our adventures of living abroad in London and traveling through Europe. I am so thankful that I have this little spot in cyberspace to relive our time in London and beyond. The time we spent in Europe was probably one of the most happy times in my life thus far, and will always be remembered fondly as the beginning of our story together.

Then, in an unexpected twist, our little travel blog turned into our baby book for Eliza. Recording all of the wonderful excitement that came along with pregnancy and then motherhood will be looked back on one day by not only myself, but perhaps a grown Eliza, too. I hope she will be thankful for such recordings and treasure our collection of stories.

Finally, in its current state, Van Nesting is more about our day-to-day lives rather than extraordinary adventures. However, we try to treat each day as though it’s just that - we strive to make the most of every day given to us and to turn our ordinary into extraordinary (sometimes it works, sometimes it’s a crapshoot). Nowadays, my blog is simply the place I record all of it - our experiences with parenthood, the excitement (and anxiety) of turning our new house into a home and really, just my general (very important) thoughts on life.

I don’t keep a journal, but this is the closest thing I have to keeping one. It’s something I treasure, something I’m proud of and something I’m happy to share with my family, friends and anyone else who is interested.

Like I stated before, I write this blog for us as a family. As an online keepsake of our most treasured memories, our milestones, our beloved friends around the world and a journal for our family. I had no intentions of having anyone read or even show interest in this blog other than our mothers. But I shared it just in case there was anyone who wanted to take a peek into our life. And I am so thankful, tickled and appreciative for the handful of people that came, who keep coming, and who tag along on our incredible ride through life.

I plan to continue writing, for I love doing so and I am committed to having something for Eliza to look back on one day. Something other than pictures, that tells the story of our family. I hope she sees that our pages are filled with love, a unique zest for life, being responsible for our own direction and, most importantly, a sense that our lives are to be lived with purpose.

So, to answer that question again, I write for this blog because I need to.

How to Ruin a Manicure

2011-08-03T15:20:00.003-04:00

A couple weeks ago, I was on my way to a friend's house when I saw that someone was discarding this treasure:

My brother said that it looked like something you'd find at a tacky Mexican restaurant.
I saw potential. And a free hall tree? Yes, please!

Thinking that it would look great with a new coat of paint and different hooks, I texted Scott. Hey Sweetie - do you think we can do anything cool with this? No answer. I figured he thought I was just being silly. I most certainly was not.

I checked on my way home to make sure it was still there and sure enough, it was. With some ~~heavy~~ coaxing on my part and some heavy lifting on Scott's, the hall tree was ours.

Having never done a project like this before, I was skeptical, yet excited about how it would turn out. It's not made of very good wood so I didn't feel bad painting it and certainly wouldn't feel bad if my project turned to crap seeing as we paid $0.

After a quick trip to Home Depot, I was ready to begin painting.

Eliza picked out the perfect paint brush.

All of my tools.

Cleaned off and ready to be refreshed!

I had spoken with my friend, Elithe, earlier in the week and received instructions on what to do to get this thing up to snuff and exactly how I wanted it. My first step was sanding. I tried to persuade Scott into purchasing a power sander at Home Depot, however, I was denied. So, off to work I went with nothing but a sheet of sand paper and some serious elbow grease.

An hour later, I was this along far when my neighbor stopped by...

I have no idea why I was sanding in a diagonal across the chair.

...and offered me these:

Thank goodness for Christopher.

25 minutes later:

Ready to paint!
Notice my ~~helpful~~ adorable assistant in the background...

Don't fret - she had a dust mask on!

Finally, it was time to paint. But first, I had to trim the mirror with painter's tape. This proved difficult due to the tiny little nooks and crannies in the corners so I had the idea to take the mirror off and paint it that way. However, the screws were so old and in there so tightly that it ended up warping our cheap screwdriver. So, in the end, I decided to tape it all up and worry about the paint on the glass later.

I stopped at this point to feed my husband, who was feeding our baby, who wanted to eat my husband's lunch...

And then I began diligently painting my hall tree.

After one coat.

While that coat was drying, I decided to go out on a proper date with Scott to celebrate our new home and second wedding anniversary.

Two years!
BTW, those are 'two' signs, not 'peace!' signs.

The next morning, I started early on my second coat.

Getting there...

...but it still needs one more coat.

After the four-hour dry time, I was ready to put the final coat on - and anxious to see the final product!

Another coat, another four hours later and new brushed silver hooks - voila!

Much better than the black hooks, don't you think?

My finished product!

This being my first project of this kind, I am quite proud of how turned out! And I thoroughly enjoyed myself, too! Our new hall tree will go perfectly in our utility room at the new house, sitting right by the garage door, ready to greet us when we walk in the door. I plan to add some colorful pillows to add a punch of color just as soon as we figure out what color that room will be. I see backpacks and jackets on the hooks, perhaps a dog leash (one day)...gloves and scarves in the storage bench below.

And, all-in-all, the total cost of the project was about $30.

However, if you add in the cost of a new manicure to fix the damage...

...we're talking a grand total of about $50 (or, $55 with tip)!

Something similar from Pottery Barn? Probably upwards of $300+.

I suppose I should be sending Scott out to 'retrieve' furniture in the middle of the night more often with savings like that!

Married: check! Parents: check! Homeowners: CHECK!

2011-07-29T17:44:00.000-04:00

As of today, Scott and I are homeowners!

We began our search in March when we moved back from the UK and toured countless homes online and in person. As soon as we decided to put our search on hold until the fall, I spotted what would become our very first home.

I was on a walk with Eliza one warm afternoon in early-May when a little boy hollered at us from his cul-de-sac, wanting to say hi and ask a million and one questions about the baby. I waved and spoke briefly to the sweet family while noticing the cute brick ranch for sale in the background, all the while thinking nothing of it, since we had seen the interior online and decided that it wasn't for us (plus it had a pool which Scott was completely against). Eliza and I said our goodbyes to the little boy and went back on our way. However, I just couldn't shake the really great feeling I had about this house. So much so, that I decided to take another walk around the block (and may I mention that this was the same exact block on which my family has lived since 1987?).

This time, we stopped and talked to the little boy's mom, asking about the house and the surrounding neighbors. She said that the house was in wonderful shape and had many updates and that the neighbors were all wonderful and very mindful of the kids in the cul-de-sac. I took a brochure of the house and once home, called Scott. He took another look online and agreed that it might be worth taking a tour that weekend. So with little expectations, yet hopeful hearts, we toured the little brick ranch.

And loved it.

There are many things that still need updating but they are fun projects that require more creativity than hard hats. We are really looking forward to getting into our new home and making it our own. It's a small house, but not too small - tailor-made for our little family of three. It has a pool - perfect for those swampy Virginia summers. And a wonderful backyard and inside layout for entertaining.

We're giddy with excitement and anticipation over our new home sweet home and are so thankful for that little boy who cajoled us into ~~that~~ our cul-de-sac that wonderful springtime day.

The New Chateau Van Nest

And Back We Go...

2011-07-28T20:41:00.002-04:00

I am moving back to Great Bridge. Back to the 'burbs.

And I have been having a lot of anxiety about it.

I had originally written this whole rigamarole-filled blog about feelings, digging deep into my soul, blah, blah, blah...

...but really, I was just nervous about life not being as grand, exciting and 'new' as it has been for the last two years.

But it will be. In a whole new exhilarating way.

And I can hardly wait!

[Full disclosure: I had a picture perfect childhood in Great Bridge. Lots of loving memories with my family and friends. I really do love it in Great Bridge and have a soft spot for it in my heart. It’s a place to which I will always return. Happily. Sometimes, you just have to work through things to figure out how and why you feel a certain way. My fear has ceased as I know the spark within me has been lit - and I will always be willing and wanting to do more, see more and take more risks. No matter where I am.]

A Tough Good-bye

2011-07-25T16:01:00.000-04:00

I remember so vividly, at the age of 12, going to pick out our family dog. My mom was set on getting a Daschund, so a Daschund is what we got. The dog we picked, Frankfruter, would soon become our family dog, a good friend and a loyal companion. I don't remember how long it was between the time we picked out our new puppy and got to bring him home, but a fellow classmate of mine, Glenn, was adopting a puppy from the same litter and it was all we could talk about during that time. I remember excitedly counting down the days with Glenn until, finally, the long awaited for Saturday arrived when we were able to take our new puppies home and introduce them to their new lives within our families.

I remember being really sad on the car ride home from the tiny coastal North Carolina town where we picked up our dog. I mean, I was so excited to have this new addition to our family but I kept thinking about how scary this must be for him...his first car ride, leaving his mom, not knowing what to expect next. But he quickly adapted to his new home and his new, much-needed name, Stretch. With so much personality, cute little meaty thighs and the ability to make anyone smile and fall madly in love with him, Stretch filled our days with love, joy and so much laughter.

He was infamous for his hotdog costume. We would have people from all around the surrounding neighborhoods visit us on Halloween just to see Stretch. He was always so ashamed to wear the costume at first but as soon as people began swooning over him, he perked right up and was happy to show it off.

He was certainly known around the neighborhood. Too stubborn to stay on a leash, no matter how hard we tried, we had no choice but to let him roam. He found himself taking a nap with an unsuspecting neighbor one day, keeping another neighbor company while she brought in the groceries another. But most often, he would trail down the block to his beloved Maggie's house. Barking at the gate to be let in, he'd run, play and relax with his favorite dog. When he was ready to go, he'd simply bark at the gate again and our sweet neighbor would send him on his way. He had a mind and agenda of his own, but was always motivated by the love and welcoming of others.

As the years passed, he grew gray around his snout and paws. But he was always strong, energetic and would often bound through the yard as though he was a puppy again (and would continue to do so until his last weeks, actually). We always knew the day would come, but nothing ever prepares you for the loss of a pet, a family member.

My mom told me on Saturday that she made an appointment to have Stretch put down tonight. I have been in a somber and emotional state ever since. I know it's the right thing to do and that his poor little body just can't take much more. But it still rips a hole in my heart knowing that when I return home next month, my sweet Stretcheroo won't be there to greet me. Instead, I will visit him at his final resting place, under a tree in the backyard. Upon leaving home last time, I suspected that it may have been my last good-bye, so I told him how much I love him, how he's been the absolute best dog and he will always remain in my heart. Having that kind of closure helps some, but I would give anything to hold him one last time, scratch him behind the ears, lay close with him on the couch and just hug him. I've had a good almost-16-years with Stretch, so I know how incredibly blessed I am. But I will miss him. He's a part of me. He's a part of my family. He's the most loyal friend I've ever had - loving me unconditionally and never judging, always listening, always being happy to see me. He was my first dog and, boy, am I lucky to have had this time with him.

So this evening, during Stretch's final car ride, I will think back to that day of his first on that cool December day in 1995; of his new beginning, of the love and happiness that his future held and of all the people that were excited to greet him. For I believe that his ending here with us on Earth is merely the beginning of his wonderful afterlife in Heaven. I know that God, and the love of his life (aside from my mom), Maggie, will be there to greet him with a giant bone and a warm red blanket. And that his spirit and love will forever live on in our souls. My sweet Stretcheroo - rest in peace, Bubba. I'll miss you terribly. And I love you more than you ever knew.

Eliza's Newborn Portraits

2011-07-24T19:43:00.000-04:00

I just realized today that I never shared the newborn portraits we had taken of Eliza back in November when she was just seven days old. We did a lot of debating over whether or not we really wanted to spend the money to have them done but, in the end, knew we wouldn't regret it; we were sure, however, we would regret not doing them. So the decision was made. I did a lot of research and decided on Maria Murray who was located about an hour away from our home in London.

Upon arrival, we were told by Maria to "just sit back and relax - I'm basically your babysitter for the next several hours." So that's exactly what we did while she worked her magic. Eliza was a dream baby - Maria told us she was the best behaved baby she had photographed in years - and managed to inherit our photogenic genes.

The photos turned out beautifully! And we're so happy that we went with Maria. She was beyond professional, helpful to me - lending me lots of advice on my own photography hobby, and amazingly talented. And Eliza's portraits came out so beautifully that Maria ended up using one of her photos in the London Baby Show this past February.

Here are the final products.

Those lips!

Such a Lady.

On leaving 27 behind...

2011-06-29T15:29:00.001-04:00

Quite frankly, 27 was one of the most magnificent years of my life.

I accomplished and learned a lot during that year.

I made many, many wonderful memories...

Most importantly, I became a mother. A good mother.
And in the seven months I have known my little girl, I have become a proud mother, too.

My wish is that with every year of my life, I continue to become a better wife, mother, daughter, sister, friend and blessing to others. For I am better this year than I was last.

I wish that I continue to keep actually living and doing, not just dreaming.
One of my favorite things about myself is that I do.

I wish to continue learning from every new experience, conversation and person that comes my way.
I've learned (and, unfortunately, forgotten) so much in my 27 years.

And as cliche as it sounds, I wish to continue getting to know myself better. I've learned so much about myself in the past three years. So much of which I like. A bit of what I need to work on. And a lot about who I want to and will become.

I can't wait to see what 28 brings.

Someone else had a birthday...a BIG birthday!

Family Love

2011-06-16T11:19:00.000-04:00

Since the birth of Eliza, I think we have taken several thousand photos. Some have been keepsakes; some not so much. And while I do love a good posed picture, my very favorites are of the everyday things that make up our most prized and beloved memories. Below are some of my most favorite perfect (and imperfect) family photos from the last seven months...and some of my most precious memories.

This was the morning after we brought Eliza home from the hospital. I held her the.entire.night. She had no interest in being put down, so I happily gave her what she wanted. I sat up (awake) in bed with her as she and Scott slept peacefully around me.

Taking a break from feeding. I love those froggy legs and how teeny tiny she is in my arms.

Napping with my new baby.

Snuggling.

So sleepy and wonderful.

I miss our weekend mornings in bed in London.

Love.

I love how she's wrapped her arm around her daddy in this picture. So sweet.

Kisses.

Still love napping with my baby, seven months later...

Kisses from Dado...

Below is a series of shots I was took so I could send Scott one of the two of us...

Laughing...

Hey!

Wait...what am I doing?!

There we go!

Eliza Update: 7 months

2011-06-09T10:41:00.001-04:00

The last update I did on Eliza was at 11-weeks-old. She looked like this:

Oh my God...so sweet!

Today, at seven-months-old, she looks like this:

I have no idea how I ended up with such a beauty!

In the time since she was a tiny 11-week-old, she's (obviously) grown in leaps and bounds. She makes me more and more proud to be her mother every single day. Waking up to her chatting voice every morning brings a huge smile to my face and a great start to the day. She smiles every time I walk into a room and that makes me feel like the most loved woman in the world. Her laugh fills my heart with joy and happiness; to know that I (and Scott, of course) can create that much laughter and affection from a human being is beyond me.

As I predicted when she was in the womb, she is so mild-mannered and relaxed. She's been on a 7p-7a sleeping schedule since March and hasn't given us the slightest hint of a problem when it comes to her sleeping routine (knock on wood). My only complaint is that she is the. messiest. and fussiest. eater. Not fussy as in picky, but fussy as in squirmy, inconsistent and sloppy. But, hey, I'll take a good sleeper over a good eater any day!

When it comes to milestones, she's pretty much on track. She has no interest in being on her belly so crawling isn't in the near future. However, she's scooting around like a maniac on her back...kind of like an opposite crawl. She's also rolling over on occasion. She can roll over and she will, she just doesn't very often. She hates being on her belly. Although, she does love being on her feet, in a standing position. Sometimes, we even have to 'bend' her to get her to sit - she'd just rather 'stand'.

She's still just as chatty as can be. She's accentuating her 'Ba ba ba ba...' lately, with an occasional 'ga', 'ma', 'da' and 'puh'. I could listen and watch her chat all day long. I only wish I knew what she was thinking/saying.

She's absolutely the silliest little girl I've ever met. She makes the funniest faces, crinkling up her nose when she knows she's the center of attention, scrunching up her little face when the wind blows or the sun is too bright. She has the most darling smile I've ever seen and if I could bottle and sell the happiness I feel when she smiles at me, I'd be a billionaire.

She loves to swim, be read to and jump in her jumper. She also loves to be in her stroller and go on walks outside. She likes to watch other children. She loves her Molly Mouse and has reignited her love affair with Portly the Panda as of late. She loves the bath. She loves to be applauded, naturally. She loves to be held and has become quite clingy (I can't complain though - I really do love it).

She's such a happy little girl who brings so much to Scott's and my life. We're so proud and honored that she picked us to be her Mommy and Daddy.

Here are some pictures from the last several months:

Tuckered out from the hot Texas sun.

In her kimono, preparing for a sushi date with Mary and Britney.

Such a silly girl.

Clean as a whistle, pretty as a picture and happy as a clam!

So pitiful. She's so mistreated.

Such sweet slumber.

Enjoying a nice bubble bath.

One of my favorites.

Someone needs a lesson with Miss Manners...

See caption above. This is the 'FEED ME' face. She's not mad, sad or crying, just hungry!

Happy girl in her dress that we bought for her in the Isle of Capri, Italy.

Reading to Snuffles.

Bows!!!

My big 7-month-old girl!

Hanging out with Dado.

Love my baby girl.

Even Eliza has bad days.

She's absolutely the light of my life and I still thank God every single day for my sweet little Pickle Louise (I have no idea how that came to be her nickname, but it somehow fits).

My Pickle Louise.

Welcome to America, Eliza!

2011-06-08T14:08:00.002-04:00

Wow, it has been a busy three-and-a-half months since we moved from London back to the United States! (This is a very picture-heavy post. But would really expect anything less from me?)

Scott and I somehow managed to pack up a house into three different categories (Fredericksburg, Newport, Chesapeake) and move ourselves, along with a three-month-old baby to a different country without any major disasters (aside from when we arrived at Heathrow and they hadn't booked Eliza's and my seats).

Thank God we weren't charged for extra baggage!

Eliza was an angel on the flight, sleeping a lot, watching Megamind and chatting with Molly...

...flying really agreed with her until our descent into heavy winds. Feeling a little motion sick myself, I closed my eyes and tried to compose myself. Apparently, my poor girl felt the same way because when I opened my eyes, I did so just in time to catch her projectile vomiting. After several more bumps and drops in the air and a couple more throw-ups, we had landed in the great nation's capitol city, Washington, D.C. We were all relieved. And excited that Eliza was finally able to 'see' America.

Our good friends Lea and Rob played hosts to us for our first couple days back on American soil. Auntie Lea showered Eliza with cuddles and kisses...and loads of adorable polka dotted attire. Eliza was able to see what the world looked like through Uncle Bobby's eyes, standing at 6' 7.5" - she must have thought she was in the airplane again. And she received many licks and curious sniffs from her furry cousins, Denver the cat and Harry the dog. Before we knew it, it was time to jet over to Texas so Eliza could meet her Papa, catch up with her Mimi and spend some time in the Texas sunshine.

Spending time with Auntie Lea.

En route to Texas.

In Texas, Eliza was finally able to meet her Papa and spend more time with her Mimi. We did a lot of shopping, eating and recovering from our jetlag. The highlight of the trip for me, however, was attending Mary's Champagne Club party. I'm telling you, you haven't lived until you've spent an evening with six of the finest ladies in Texas, eating great food, drinking exquisite champagne and sharing fabulous conversation. I only wish that I could fly back monthly and attend all of their gatherings. Mary is so blessed to have found such a great group of women to call her friends (and who share her affinity for champagne).

At Riverwalk with Mimi and Papa.

Soaking up the Texas sunshine and probably a few dirty jokes from Papa.

Baby Bjorn and a minivan. I love this man.

Champagne, southern food and big hair. Just another normal Friday night in Texas.

Back in Virginia, we spent one last evening with Lea and Rob before heading down to Chesapeake to see my mom and introduce Eliza to her Uncle Alex and Aunt Lindsay. We were able to spend several wonderful days with them and see a lot of our Norfolk friends before heading up to our new temporary home at the TownePlace Suites in Fredericksburg. I know it's not ideal to live in a hotel with a baby for three months but between our visits with friends in D.C. and Richmond and our weekends in Chesapeake, the three months flew by. It was no where near as daunting as I thought it would be and the Marriott points we racked up 'living' there really made the stay worthwhile.

While in Virginia...

We bought Eliza a car...

Eliza begrudgingly dressed up and celebrated St. Patrick's Day...

We discovered that we have a water baby...

Eliza shared her first kiss with her friend, Sutton...

She started solids at 5 months old - sweet potatoes - and loved them...

Eliza shared great conversation with her cousin, Gracie...

We celebrated Morgan's birthday...

Spent lots of good time with Grandma...

Hung out at the fire station with Uncle Alex...

Eliza got to meet Grandfather...

And hang out with the rest of the family...

We went to the Norfolk Botanical Gardens with Aunt Lindsay...

And Maymont Park in Richmond with Britney and Carter...

And afternoon tea with Mary and Britney...

We found another Eliza Lane...

And Eliza visited the park where I used to play as a kid...

Eliza celebrated her first Easter Sunday and sprouted adorable bunny ears for the day...

Eliza attended her very first Mets game (v. Nationals)...

And returned to the ballpark to walk for the March for Babies in honor of her friend, Caitlyn...

And got to hang out with Caitlyn's brothers, who just so happen to be her friends from London...

In mid-May, we said goodbye to all of our friends and family in Virginia and Alex, Eliza and I drove up to Newport, with Scott following a few days later once he completed school. I was so glad that Alex was able to make the trip with me as I had such a lovely time with him. He also did a super job helping me out with Eliza and getting things settled into our new home. To thank him, I treated him to some chowda' at the Black Pearl. I think he felt overcompensated...it was that good.

So excited to try the chowder.

While Alex was in town, we walked Cliff Walk - gorgeous.

Scott arrived that weekend and we have been enjoying Newport ever since. Aside from a few scorching days (in a house with no a/c), the weather has been perfect. Scott's best friend from the Naval Academy, Steve, has been coming to visit on the weekends, giving them ample time to catch up on life (the Navy, fatherhood, married life, and which countries produce the best beer...). We also took a little trip up to the northern part of the state (a whole 40 minutes away!) to attend the wedding of a buddy of Scott's. It was Eliza's first wedding, and aside from the bride, of course, she was belle of the ball.

Ready for the wedding!

She was a trooper and behaved herself the entire evening.

Enjoying ourselves at the Chowder Cook-off.

Trying out big kid swings for the first time...

...and this was the backdrop of the playground.

We're really excited to be in Newport during the most beautiful time of the year (May to December) and fully intend on taking advantage of the gorgeous scenery, the divine seafood and the easy travel across New England. And while we certainly miss and love the Old England, we think we'll love and enjoy the new one just as much!

Final Thoughts on London (at least for now)

2011-04-26T10:58:00.000-04:00

A year-and-a-half ago, I would have thought you were crazy if you told me I would leave London the same way I arrived: kicking and screaming. I was certain that this huge, fast-paced city would never have a chance at growing on me. However, it did. A lot. And I miss it. Like crazy. I can’t watch any of the Royal Wedding news coverage without tearing up, pining to go back to the city I once loathed. I’m not quite sure when I fell madly in love with London, but all that matters is that I did.

I grew up a lot in London. I got to start over and discover who I was without the influence of family or friends. I like who I found and am proud of who I became – a strong, courageous, smart and independent woman who is willing to try (almost) anything; a great, supportive and fun wife to my amazing husband; a wonderful mother to my amazing daughter; and a really good friend to some pretty awesome people.

Some pretty awesome people.
Last night in London - lots of laughs, lots of sad good-byes and lots of champagne.

I also further explored my sense of adventure and took charge of my desires to do and see more. If it weren’t for my countless hours of research and planning, we would have never made some of our very favorite memories. I also quickly discovered how lonely it could be an ocean away from anyone familiar and quickly dug up some courage and made the ‘first move’ on unsuspecting women with whom I wanted to establish friendships. These ladies, I am happy to say, have become some of my closest and best friends.

And while I will miss the grandeur of London – looking down a random road and spotting Big Ben (which would take my breath away every time) or Buckingham Palace; dining at world-class restaurants; having neighbors with the last names McCartney, Law, Brand and Moss; seeing Bentley Continentals pass and thinking nothing of it; traveling to Italy on a whim (and for only $100!); traipsing around Regent’s Park and admiring the Queen’s roses; having an endless pick of fabulous French wine (for cheap, too)…it’s the friendships with the people, myself and the city I have taken with me and will cherish most about my time in London. The friendships…and the most magnificent little London souvenir.

My Little Anglophile

2011-04-01T12:14:00.003-04:00

Eliza did lots of traveling before she made her debut in November. And although we didn't get to do any international traveling once she was born, we did our best to show her around London, the place she will always call her first home. While she won't get British citizenship, she'll always be our most prized British treasure. And I think, or rather hope, that she will always have an affection and a place in her heart for British culture. Scott and I certainly will.

First of all, she was born at The Portland Hospital, shared birthplace of many British and Hollywood royals.

She got to come home from the hospital in a Black Cab.

She's had her very own professional shoot with one of London's best.

I know this isn't something that's truly London, I just love the photo.

She's had afternoon tea at The Ritz-Carlton, London.

She's enjoyed a drink at the local pub.

She's "minded the gap" and has taken the tube.

She's made the acquaintance of the Queen's horses.

She's been in the infamous red phone booths.

She's taken in the incredible view of Westminster.

She's shopped at Selfridge's on Oxford St.

She's admired Big Ben.

She chatted with Honest Abe in Parliament Square.

She's visited Westminster Abbey and picked out her seat for the upcoming Royal Wedding.

She's been in the hustle and bustle on Oxford Street at Christmastime.

She ~~participated in~~ observed the student riots at Trafalger Square.

She's crossed Abbey Road.

She's been on the London Eye.

She's worn ~~James Bond's~~ Daniel Craig's bow tie.

And she calls me "Mum".

A Very Special Gift

2011-03-25T10:29:00.002-04:00

Exactly one week before I was due to give birth to Eliza, I attended the very first Knit Night at the recently-opened yarn shop nearby, Tricolette Yarns. I didn’t necessarily have a huge interest in learning to knit but I thought I would give it a try and meet some new people. So in true Jessica Van Nest style, I showed up fashionably late and made myself at home. The owner of the shop, Lynn, welcomed me in and put me to work on my very first project (which was sort of a non-project…just a little coaster-like item to help me learn). I enjoyed learning something new and meeting the other “social knitworkers”. I left feeling excited about my new hobby and friends.

A week later I had a baby. What knitting project?!

Three weeks later I received an email from Lynn inviting me to that week’s Knit Night; she said that they had a little something for the baby. So that Thursday, I tucked Eliza into her cozy little stroller and we made our way around the corner to the shop. When all of the oohing and ahing over my new little bundle subsided, we were presented with this (I still tear up just thinking about it, to this day).

After meeting me one time, this fabulous group of women decided to knit a baby blanket for Eliza. Each of the women knit a square and Lynn brought it all together. I can’t tell you how much I treasure this blanket and how much I know Eliza will in the future, too. It’s a true gift of love. A love that we reciprocate.

I don’t think we missed a knit night after that. The affection that we felt from this group of strangers was so strong that we could hardly resist. Those strangers ended up being some of our favorite people in London. I would look so forward to Thursday night knit nights (and eventually started going daily) – having a glass of wine, knitting with women from all over the world of all different ages and backgrounds – what’s not to love?

I miss them dearly and think about them every Thursday at 2pm when I know they’re gathering, wishing I was there to knit and chat the night away. I have grown to absolutely love knitting and I will always treasure my hobby – it started with the birth of my daughter and grew weekly as I knitted and purled my way through countless mishaps due to my attention being drawn away to the lively conversations I was having with the lovely ladies who gathered weekly at that cozy little yarn shop on Boundary Road.

The Night Knitters

The coffee cuff I made.

Lynn and "her baby".

Eliza chatting with her buddy, Celia.

My very first completed project!

And to top off just how special Tricolette is to our family and vice versa, Lynn informed us that once the back baby room of the shop is completed, it will be called “Eliza’s Room”. What a special way for our sweet girl to leave her mark.

Love.

Boundary Road, NW8

2011-03-25T08:56:00.003-04:00

Right around the corner from our tiny house off of Abbey Road lies a block of shops filled with the friendliest, most generous and kind people. When people ask me what I will miss most about London, I say simply, “Boundary Road”. Everything we need is only a stone’s throw away, from fabulous food to dry cleaning to yarn to the best manicures in London and, most importantly, great conversation with good friends.

SheLine

I remember the day I first walked into SheLine, inquiring about manicures. A cute and friendly South African girl handed me a menu and invited me in. Since that day, that girl, Jenny, has been giving me weekly manicures (which are constantly complimented by strangers – she’s that good) and become one of my closest friends in London. I’m spoiled beyond words whenever I walk into SheLine and sometimes go just for some quality girl talk and a glass of wine or hot chocolate. When I was pregnant, I always received a foot rub, just because (and, in fact, still do to this day!). SheLine is also where you can find the best masseuse in London, or in my opinion, the world – Ewa. I swear she’s heaven-sent and has hands made of gold. The other girls in the shop are fabulous as well and I always leave with a smile on my face and love in my heart. Yes, it really is that warm and fuzzy…

Meghna Grill

Before coming to London, I had only eaten Indian food once. That all changed with Meghna - now, it’s one of my favorite international cuisines and I have it at least once a week. The gentlemen that work there are so friendly and, despite their best efforts to get us to try something new every time, patient with us when we stick with what we love. They are child-friendly as well; they always asked for updates when I was pregnant and have welcomed Eliza with open arms.

Tricolette Yarns

I wish, more than anything, that I had learned to knit 18 months ago and that Tricolette was at my doorstep. New to Boundary Road, this yarn shop has become a second home to Eliza and me. The owner, Lynn, is always ready to fix my mistakes and teach me something new – I have her (and my mother-in-law) to thank for my newfound hobby, and my newfound family.

Bruno's Deli

This fine little Italian deli has been our go-to place for delicious cheesy, meaty pastas and authentic Italian pizzas. Cheap as dirt, too.

Fitness Cafe

Three words: Chicken Avacado Sandwich. That’s all. (Oh! And gracious staff, too!)

~~Home Sweet~~ Poem Bar and Grill

Last, but not least, our beloved Poem, or “Home” as we’ve dubbed it, is, in my opinion, the best restaurant in London. Their steaks are delectable; the pomme-frites are to.die.for; the desserts are divine (especially the Bread & Butter Pudding in the winter). Simply stated, I’ve never had a meal I didn’t like. The owner, his family and staff have become like family to us. We have so many wonderful memories at Poem – it was the first place we went to after moving into our house, it’s where we went the night I went into hospital, ready to have a baby, it was where we took Eliza on her first outing, it’s where we spent our first Christmas as a family and where our good friends joined us on our last night in London. It’s our favorite (and most regular) pick for breakfast, lunch and dinner…and we will miss it beyond measure.

Walking down Boundary Road takes five times long as it should because there’s always someone to say hello to. I feel like the Queen of England walking down Boundary Road, both hands waving at our various friends in all of the shops. They have truly made us feel like royalty…and like this tiny little community in the middle of this big city, is home.