The Story of a Mural: Evelyn's Room - Before and After

Meet Rebecca Hollandsworth, a very talented young artist that I am so excited to introduce to those of you who may not know her. I commissioned her to paint a mural in Evelyn's room after we saw the beautiful work she'd done in Ev's friend Bridgett's room. It just so happens that Bridgett is Becca's little sister. Becca came over one cold Saturday in early January to show us some sketches she'd come up with. We'd decided on a Chronicles of Narnia theme.

And the rest is history.....

Before:

During:

And after.....

Remember this name. And grab her while she's still available.
She will be famous soon. I'm convinced of it.

Maggie and Paisley, a.k.a. Mutt and Jeff

My friend Adriene brought her dog Paisley over for a visit yesterday. The two of us, who SWORE we would NEVER have dogs, had a playdate with our pups. Amazing. They ran around the house for several hours and got completely exhausted.

We even brought them with us for a carpool run.

Never say never. :)

Christmastime in Williamsburg

The third annual Mays/Ricucci Christmastime Weekend in Williamsburg was just wonderful! We escaped D.C. just before the history making snowstorm of '09. We had just enough snow in Virginia to make everything lovely.

Friday night we had the amazing seafood buffet at the Williamsburg Lodge. Since there were 14 of us we had our own private dining room. The snow had just begun to fall.

Saturday was spent walking/shopping/eating/enjoying.....

Lunch at the Cheese Shop.

Gary teaching my girls about the finer things in life. Does vinegar that costs $199.00 really taste that good?!

"I'm kinda tired. I'm just gonna go sit under the knives."

Visiting with Father Christmas at Aromas.

Saturday night we had dinner in the Purdie Kitchen at King's Arms Tavern. Once again we had our own private dining room. This room has no electricity, just candlelight and a roaring fire.

The Williamsburg Inn.

Sunday morning at Cracker Barrel before heading back home.

Evelyn adores JJ and Keara. I think the feeling is mutual. :)

I love our growing family! Merry Christmas!