My Ladybug

There has been a ladybug floating around my Mother's bedroom and plants and window in her room for a couple weeks.  I watch it while I feed her and talk to her.  I love Ladybugs.  My Mom's nickname is Ladybug.  She had a gold ladybug watch that she wore around her neck for years when I was young. The watch wore out but she kept it in her jewellery box for all these years. I would look in her jewellery box and that ladybug would be sitting there for as long as I can remember. When I moved her back here and I put her jewellery box in her bedroom. I took the ladybug and put it on my bedside table along with some objects of my Dad's too. I have always thought of Ladybugs as these beautiful sweet creatures who were delicate and frail and you had to be so careful of taking care of them and not hurt them. I know of their symbolic nature. I can't help but feel overanxious constantly right now.  For Valentine's day, I made some mini cupcakes and had a ladybug and heart theme. Tim made an amazing lunch - baked ham, green beans and twice baked potatoes to take her for lunch.  I hope it's a nice day.    

Dongtai Antique Market

I have been to Shanghai many times for work.  It's an amazing city in many ways.  However, one of the things that I don't like about it is that they have destroyed so much of its architectural past in pursuit of industry and the future.  The flea market on Dongtai street used to be one of my favorite things to shop while there. Unfortunately, it has disappeared slowly block by block.  Old residential neighborhoods being torn down for high rise "Transformer" styled buildings. I had a free Sunday and walked over and couldn't believe how much of the market was gone. All of the tables are no longer there and just a handful of shops still open. I love looking for old Transferware while there. I love mixing old and new Ironstone, my Grandmother's blue Spode pattern, my Mother's white on white Noritake and my own blue vintage dishes. I bought a couple pieces - a vase and bowl while there.  I got home and unwrapped them and they look great with our assortment of dishes.  I like things you can use.  They will get a workout with us.

SHANGHAI

I needed to take a break from posting for awhile. I feel blessed for last year.  However, things got a little too heavy as well. Hippy talk. Starting fresh with the New Year.  Went to Shanghai and got caught in the middle of that terrible snow storm in New York.  After a bad start and a delay of two days, I left for China.  Working with my team in Shanghai.  We had a great time, lots of hard work, lots of great eating.  I discovered what a Hot Pot is and loved it. Awesome hosting by our CFO, Stephen.  I was over there for 3 weeks and got back last weekend.  Came back to snow and more political garbage. Ready to go back to Shanghai.