Full Circle

This week's end was just as exciting as its beginning. The notable difference is that I am now on the East Coast working on a project.  Being back in Boston as a finalist blogger in Apartment Therapy’s The Homies Awards seems quite appropriate, considering this is where I began blogging 4 years ago.  When I think about or scroll back to my older posts, I’m amazed at just how many and how much I’ve shared with you .  It’s been an amazing journey, one that I could not have stayed embarked on without you.  I'm SO grateful for your continued love and support!  Let’s keep this exciting gig going by voting one last time for Cocoon Home as your favorite Home Design and Inspiration blog right here.   THANK YOU!

Fleeting Moments

Lately I've been feeling like time is passing so quickly.  I look at our children in awe of their growth, both mental and physical.   At times, it's hard to believe that they where once "little".  When I try to recall infant milestones and preschool memories, their immediate presence pulls me back to the present.  Fleeting as it may be I am grateful for every second of time.  This week's event and others that caused so much pain and loss leave my heart heavy and my soul searching for answers.  We may never have the answers but for now we need to live in the moment with kindness and love for all we meet.

We're thinking a lot about the city that was our home not so long ago and all our loved ones who still live there.

Farewell, New England: 7 Things To Do Before We Go

Just three months ago,  my husband and I decided to  move to California.  We have since sold our house in Cambridge, purchased one in Lafayette, Ca. and readied our children for the big changes ahead.  Now it's just a matter of days before we leave the place we've called home for 12 years.  I am so grateful for all the experiences, all the friends and all the special spots that make this area such a great place to live.  Over the weekend, while we prepared for an upcoming yard sale, we sifted through years of photos, clothing and tchotchkes that reminded us of how we got here, not just physically, but mentally and spiritually as well.  We're anxious, as our children are, to begin our next phase but there are a few things I need to do before we leave:

1. Walk the Arnold Arboretum.  I interned there as a young horticulturist, right before Alex and I headed off to SF to begin our life together.  Taking yet another walk there with our children before we return to California would be so symbolic.

2. Eat a fig and prosciutto pizza at Figs in Charlestown, where we lived soon after moving to Boston in 2000.  We had a great apartment in a building where many great times were shared with new friends, one of whom is no longer with us and missed terribly.  Would love to go to Charlestown again and pay tribute to a place and time where so much began for us.

3.  Cocktails on our roof deck.  One of my most favorite home renovation projects, and one that continues to delight us morning, day and night.

4.  Take the kids to one of our favorite parks, where all of Boston's transit can be seen, heard and felt.

5.  Take dip in Walden Pond.  A magical place all year round, but especially on warm summer days.

6. Tidal pool wade at Wingaersheek Beach.   The perfect New England beach for kids.

7.  Spend time with our East coast family and friends.  this one is on going until the day we leave...

Time is moving rather quickly, but I will mark our goodbyes by fulfilling each and every one of the above.  Thank you, Boston/Cambridge for being such an exciting place for all of us to experience.

We will be forever grateful and nostalgic.

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A Harbor View Event

This past Saturday, my husband and I attended an event benefitting Boston's Camp Harbor View.  It's a summer camp that gives city children the opportunity to escape their urban environment to experience fun summer activities like swimming, hiking and crafts.  The camp's programs are geared to build confidence and leadership skills that will empower the children throughout their lives.  Located on Long Island (in the Boston Harbor), the camp has open fields, wooded trials and sandy beaches all of which can be safely explored and enjoyed.  To learn more about the program click here.

The event was beautifully executed in a classic New England style.   Red and white boat-wheeled tablecloths, tightly wrapped blue gingham fabric and exposed wood tabletops set the tone for the dining hall.  Take a look at a few photos.  (Keep in mind my new 50mm camera lens was being tested for the first time...)

Thanks to NM and GM for inviting us to share in celebrating and honoring a truly wonderful Boston program:  Camp Harbor View.

Patch NYC Shop Opens In Boston

Recently I attended the opening of Patch NYC in Boston's South End.  The shop is filled with antique treasures, custom jewelry, sketched art, pottery and colorful textiles, all of which have unique details that exude a sense of vintage glamour and intrigue.  The two owner/designers of Patch NYC, John Ross and Darn Carney, have created a sensual shopping experience via fragrant candles, textural objects and embellished jewelry.  It's as though one stepped back in time while surrounded with modern design.  A must see.  Hours vary so call ahead.  Patch NYC is  in The Courtyard at 46 Waltham Street,  Boston.

Congratulations Patch NYC!