Oldest son completed his associates degree at local community college and we sent him off to a university 1 hour from our home. He is living with 4 other friends in a house a few blocks from the college. He worked and saved enough money to pay his rent for a year. He has done a lot right and seems to be taking school seriously but I know there is partying going on. Honestly I'm relieved to not really know the details of his daily life. He tends to be disorganized and runs late everywhere but so far he is the earliest and tidiest one of the bunch. Maybe he just needed to get out and spread his wings. 2nd oldest son is in 10th grade. Last year was rough finding where he fits with friends, classes, ect. This year he is off to a great start. Both my boys are bright but tend to be underachievers so I think, hope and pray they are starting off great. My daughter moved up to the middle school for 6th grade this year. She is my over achiever. She was nervous about all the typical things like: getting her locker opened, finding her classes, ect. She has settled in nicely. She is very busy with extra curricular activities. I felt how I expected to feel this year; sad to see my oldest leave the nest wondering if I did a good enough job. And, sad to have no children in elementary school, no one to walk to school for the first time in 15 years. It really forces you to look at your own life - where you are, what it all means, where you're going with your own things, ect. I'm searching more now for where I fit and what is out there for me. I work part-time and am exploring other options for myself. It's all so tough - this motherhood stuff. I'm sure you all can relate.

Eileen, thanks for the Crispo recommendation. We went to a cigar club recently (somewhere in the 60's) and while it was interesting, I'll NEVER go back! To much cigar smoke, well duh, to be expected, but who can take it? They served dinner but I honestly don't know who could eat there. We were there after dinner and just for drinks and cigars (no cigar for me just wine). Glad you had a nice time without the kids!

Not much time to assemble it in NYC. We're arriving and then dashing off shortly thereafter to see "War Horse" on Broadway. Can't wait. Will just assemble it here and pack it in an insulated bag with ice pack. Friend doesn't want anything under the crust so it just got easier. Son has asked for a trial run tonight. Of course, sneaky kid. Thanks, Linda. Jo

Oh what fun, Sheilajoyce. Enjoy your time with your family and the beautiful wedding. Your description makes it sound like the ideal wedding venue. Tell us all about it when you get home, okay?