For most of us September 11th was a day that changed the way we think. The attack on the World Trade Centers, the Pentagon and Flight 93 gave us a responsibility that we must never forget. We are a strong Nation and although we may have different 0pinions, we stand united to preserve the Great Nation we are. One that Accepts all, Respects all and Protects all!
          Our hearts ache for those beautiful souls that were lost that day. Each one special and part of a mosaic that represents the values and ideals of proud Americans. We will never forget and continue to celebrate those lost in Memorials and will for Generations to come as a symbol of our strength.  
         Though our hands are not joined with those lost our hearts can not be parted.  It is this spirit that will forever reign.

                           God Bless America!

         Two years ago today my husband Rocco and I went on our European Holiday. It was simply the best time and looking over some of the files on my computer I found this small clip of the marching band at the Palace. I can still remember the day and the beautiful weather. We went on the tour of the Palace and the grounds, which were magnificent!
          We plan to return next year and exploring the Cornwall  region.  I have traced my ancestors there and hope to see if there are any cousins I could contact. I've recently started emailing another "new relative" via ancestry.com and hope to meet her as well in London.
         Below I added a clip of street dancing in Rome. We were at a great little restaurant and enjoyed watching these ladies dance. They were having such a good time and it added to the festive mood we were all sharing. We had been inside where they had a karaoke player and that was equally alot of fun. I just remember it was incredibly hot that evening and I thought it was so cute how the ladies were using their fans. The owner then joined in.....he was the gentleman in the suit with the glasses. Another memorable moment and this time a little sound to enjoy as well. I plan on improving my movie skills though before the next trip. 

         

 From street to street there were performers of all kinds. I see this in Manhattan but very rarely where I live in Florida. I truly enjoy the freedom of expression and the fun impromptu attitude ofthese happy people. 

      It's hard for me to believe my last post was August 5th and today is September 5th and we're celebratingLabor Day.  The last few weeks have flown by with a very busy schedule!  Starting off with a trip to New York, attending the New York Now Trade Show, lots of shopping and meeting new people with whom memories were made. The highlight of my trips to New York are always about the great people who usually are chance meetings and then a conversation turns into an exchange of emails or phone numbers and then a chance to continue as a new friendship.
           The trade show was exceptional this year with approximately 2800 vendors that had everything from Home Decor to Clothing, Childrens Wear, Toys, Books, Furniture, Rugs, Kitchen items, Greeting Cards etc......everything is represented from all parts of the World.
There is a Handmade section and then the gifts and import side. The picture above is Me with my Daughter Stephanie and two of the employees of the NY Now Team! Below are some shots taken as I walked around the show. 

      I especially enjoy the Handmade side, as the exceptional talent of so many people are displayed. It was nice to catch up with a few people I met last year and see their new line. One such vendor is Jennifer Collier from England and her handmade Paper items. Another great Lady I met this year with a unique whimsical collection was Elaine of At-Choo. Below is Jennifers booth and a fun picture taken with Elaine. 

,      The last day of the show I purchased some items from a few vendors.  One nice man actually gave me a rolling cart to make it easier for traveling when I left the show.  It was late in the day so I accepted graciously and set out to meet my Daughter after work.  Off I went on the M20 Bus headed downtown. As I got on the bus another nice gentleman jumped up to give me a seat. I accepted with a few words of Thanks and then sat down to relax. I looked over and saw a women and her Son and another two children behind them I could tell they were traveling together and once again struck up a conversation.  They were a   lovely family from Ireland, now living in England. As usual when I get to talking I forget everything else and sure enough my rolling cart took off when the bus came to an abrupt stop . The lovely man who I now knew was Ray jumped up and got it as it rolled down then aisle. I was laughing so hard with Fiona his wife and truly enjoying this chance meeting. It turned out we were traveling to the same stop and  we all got off together, with Ray helping once agin with the cart.  By this time I had been introduced to their lovely children Hannah, Erin and Sam. We walked together to the 911 Memorial and I was able to take pictures of them together as a family and even one with me. My Daughter Stephanie met me there and also was able to meet this lovely family. We exchanged emails and I promised to send them some pictures. They were continuing their Holiday in Washington DC before returning to England. We took a goup picture by the Survivor tree with a Police officer who had put his hat on my head for fun.  We left after hugging Good-bye and once again a heartfelt memory was made.
      This trip truly provided the opportunity for me to add to my best collection.........new Friends!!!