What Are The Motorcycle Laws?

The other day as I was waiting in car line to pick up Gabby from school, I witnessed the most bizarre sight. As I, along with other parents, waited patiently to pick up our cute, sweet, innocent children, the loud rumble from a Harley Davidson turned everyone's head. The man on the motorcycle pulled into the school parking lot and parked his bike. It was the father to one of the boys in Gabby's class. He hops off and walks into the school to get his son. Meanwhile, I'm thinking the same thing all of the other parents were thinking, was the father going to put his 4 year old son on the back of that motorcycle? Sure enough, he comes out of the school with his son, puts a helmet on the boy but not himself, helps the boy onto the bike, and they both drove off into the sunset. With my jaw dropped, I watched in disbelief.

Now, you know every parent talked about this unsual sighting over dinner that night. I came right home and called my friend who was also waiting in car line. We were puzzled as to why this parent thought that putting a 4 year old on the back of a motorcycle was a good idea. Maybe it's a "Mom" thing and we're just too over protective, but I just can't believe that a 4 year old understands and knows the rules to being a passenger on a motorcycle.

I did a little research to find out if the law in Pennsylvania requires a passenger to be a certain age, but couldn't find a darn thing. The only thing I found was the passenger needs to be told how to lean to the side while maneuvering a turn. So, help me out. If you are familiar with motorcycle laws, I'd like to know if this is allowed.

Orchids Not Roses

Orchids are my favorite house plant. They're simply elegant. I haven't had one in a while mainly because we moved, lived in a rental townhouse for a year while our home was being built, and then trying to get settled into our new home.

They're very delicate plants and need the perfect conditions to thrive. They love bright indirect sunlight, good circulation, humidity, and moderate watering. If any of the above conditions are not suitable, orchids can die or not produce magnificent blooms as they are known for.

They're many different varieties of orchids. Some of the most common ones are Phalaenopsis, cymbidium, dendrobium, and cattleya. Not only are they beautiful potted plants, they also make exquisite cut flower displays.

My in-laws surprised me with a Phalaenopsis for my birthday. I was thrilled because I decided I was going to treat myself to one and never did. I'm determined to have success with this one as my prior experience wasn't successful. My bedroom seems to be a suitable place since it receives the warmth and brightness from the afternoon sun.

Since it's Valentine's Day, instead of wishing for cut roses that you'll only enjoy for 4 to 6 days tops, tell your significant other to change it up a bit and bring home an orchid. You can find them at Walmart, Home Depot, or at a florists. You'll love the long lasting blooms that each orchid produces.

A Time To Celebrate

Our family has always made birthdays a special occasion either by sending cards or flowers, having parties, or having a nice lunch or dinner. Sometimes all of the above. As a kid I can remember receiving thousands (maybe it was only 10 or so) of cards but whose counting. To me it seemed like a million and it was so exciting to open all of those Birthday cards especially if money fell out.

Today, our family aunts, uncles, and cousins, too, still celebrate and recognize that certain person on their birthday. I guess our family always has and always will believe in making you feel "special" on your big day. I'm not sure when or how this became such an important day for our family but, I'm glad to be a part of it.

Last night, my Dad, stepmom, stepgrandmother, sister and her family, came over to celebrate my birthday. Kelly prepared a delicious shrimp scampi dinner and Nana (aka Nancy) brought a salad along with some yummy cibbati (sp?)bread and an ice-cream cake. We must of been hungry because there wasn't much leftover. They even brought me presents. The Reynolds gave me money (for my upcoming trip to GA. That's another blog later on) and a beautiful sweater. Dad and Nana gave me a pair of warm socks and a gift card to Dick's Sporting Goods, and S. Grandmother Jean gave me a gift card to Plow and Hearth. Love everything!! I even received one of those "special" cards in the mail with MONEY!!! Thanks G.J. and Grandpa!!

Here are pictures from last night:

Snowtubing, Skiing, Snowmobiling Anyone?

If you live in Maryland or southern Pennsylvania and are looking for something fun to do with the family, take a look at one of the nearby ski resorts. Seven Springs Ski Resort , Liberty Ski Resort , and Wisp Ski Resort offer family fun all week long.

Snowtubing seems to be popular for families even those with toddlers. During the week, snowtubing rates are less expensive and range in price from $11-$15 for a two hour session. If you and your family are thrill seekers, try one of many expert level ski slopes at Seven Springs Resort or try your snowboarding skills, confidence, and abilities at Wisp Resort Terrain Parks. For a grounded approach, try guided snowmobile tours available at Wisp and Seven Springs.

Each resort offers a variety of snow fun for every family member at affordable rates. With Presidents Day approaching, this is a great idea for Moms who need something to do with the kids.

I hope I was able to enlighten you and give you some suggestions as to how you can plan fun things to do during these winter months. ENJOY!