Can you imagine living to be 100 years old? This past weekend I flew back to Los Angeles to attend my Great Aunt Annie's 100th birthday celebration held at the Huntington Library. It was a beautiful evening catching up with many relatives I had not seen in years as well as meeting some for the very first time. As a child I grew up visiting my great aunt's store in Chinatown but rarely got to see the rest of her family. In many ways I felt like a distant observer witnessing such an amazing occasion unfold. And as all of her grandchildren took turns recalling their favorite "grandma" story I was filled with emotions. I got chills thinking about what it must feel like to have had so many life experiences (i.e. weddings, childbirth, holidays), but also to be witness to numerous wars, hardship and discrimination. What an INCREDIBLE woman, still so full of life and personality! In a time when the world is filled with discouraging scenes of conflict and disaster it is important that I recognize the determination and strength of my little Great Aunt Annie and the legacy she will someday leave behind.
100 never looked so good...
As a future parent, there is nothing better than a little hands on experience and observation. While I was in California I had the pleasure of staying with my very good childhood friend Katie, her husband JR and their two beautiful girls Heidi and Tess. They are an incredible family and such a wonderful example for Casey and me. It is hard to believe that I have known Katie for over 22 years. We met in the 5th grade, when I transferred schools and quickly became friends. We have shared a special bond over the years and used to exchange recorded messages on cassette tape (that was before the show Felicity made it a thing). We even had a song (I Swear by All For One) that we would always dance to at school dances. Katie has been a witness to many of my struggles early on and is one of the only people who know pretty much everything I have been through. She has been a source of honesty, encouragement and advice, always allowing me to unload my barrel of emotions. Katie has been an absolute constant in my life and I am extremely thankful to have her on my side through thick and thin. Even though we are now living on opposite sides of the country, our friendship will endure forever.
6th Grade Harvest Dance… yikes!
I really admire the way Katie and JR are raising Heidi and Tess. It is hard to pinpoint anything in particular, for they make it look relatively easy. Well, maybe easy is not the right choice of word because I know a lot of effort goes into being a successful parent. Perhaps it is more so the willingness of them both, to work as a team, to make sure all of the bases are covered. I love that they allow the girls to express themselves whether it be in song, dance or raw emotion. They are not overbearing or demanding. Instead, they encourage Heidi and Tess to explore their ideas and curiosities. In my humble opinion, they make the perfect family and I cannot wait to watch Heidi and Tess blossom into outstanding adults.
California Fun!
All worn out!
These past few weeks have been non-stop getting everything ready for the auction. Each piece in the collection took more than 12 hours to knit and not everything I created since March made it into the final collection. All of the designs are named for women who have played a special role in our lives. With bidding currently open, we are very encouraged by the support we are receiving. In planning for the next collection coming out in August, this first auction is a great way for me to learn what styles you all like the most. We are hoping that you will return for the close of the auction this Sunday @ 10pm EDT to place last minute bids. If you need an extra reminder, make sure to "watch" your favorites on eBay. If you are bidding on multiple items we recommend putting in a higher maximum bid to increase your chances of winning. Don't miss out on these one-of-a-kind creations!
This past week we received some wonderful press from both the NJ Star Ledger and The Next Family. You can read both of the articles here:
I love the clever title that the Star Ledger came up with!
We have also been very fortunate to receive many words of encouragement from family and friends, as well as strangers. More valuable than any money we raise from this project is the wealth of advice and support we are receiving. As future first-time parents, Casey and I are in for a true adventure. It means so much to us to have so many people come along for the journey. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts! Please continue to spread the word and share our story with everyone you know.
Our Very Best,
David & (Casey)