Coffeecake

Debbie Phelps--Fashion Icon

The WSJ is reporting that Debbie Phelps, mom to Olympic phenom Michael Phelps has signed a deal in the low six-figures to promote Chico's clothing, which she wore while cheering for her son at the Games.  Apparently she loves Chico's, and stocked up on a bunch of outfits to take to the games.  You may have noticed her brightly colored print ensembles-my DH kept joking that it looked like she was wearing the same outfit every day--but hey, he noticed her clothes, which is something that he never does. I thought she looked great, and loved that she looked so put together and coordinated.  My mom is ike that, too--she has never not been totally coordinated, even if she is just hanging around at home.  Chicos has now introduced a Debbie Phelps' Summer Games Look.  The idea is part of a trend towards using "real women" to promote fashion and beauty products. As much as I love my thick fall issue of Vogue, I love this trend too because it reflects how moms live in the real world.

I personally have found J.Jill's Wherever Collection to be great for travel. When we spent a month traveling to adopt our son, I stocked up on some of these pieces.  They don't wrinkle and were perfect for sitting around a hotel or hospital room--comfortable, but put together, too. 

Post Beijing Blues/ Inspirational Olympic Mom

I'm kinda bummed that the Olympics are over.  I really enjoyed watching the events this year, and especially loved the opening ceremonies. Like everyone else, I was awestruck by the performances of our gymnastics and swim teams as well as Usain Bolt on the track.  But I think more than anything I loved watching Debbie Phelps, Michael Phelp's mom, cheer on her son.  While Michael's gold-medal performance was truly amazing and has made me feel like  heading down to the somewhat nasty pool at the local Y and start swimming laps I was really impressed by the apparent devotion between Michael and his mom.  It is wonderful to see that kind of support and I hope to be able to provide that to my sons.  I have to admit that I used to fear becoming a mini-van driving soccer mom, but now I realize what a gift it is to your child to show your support for them in whatever they do.  And how wonderful it is to have a child who so clearly recognizes the sacrifices you have made, as Michael so evidently does.  Go Debbie!

Here is a link to an inpiring article in the New York Times that describes how Debbie Phelps helped her son excel following his childhood diagnosis of ADHD.

(stock photo)

Go Greg!

My good friend Greg Chamitoff, an astronaut with the latest shuttle mission STS-124, launched on the Discovery shuttle on Saturday.  We were not able to attend the launch, but cheering him on via the TV.  Greg will be docking with the International Space Station & staying there for six months!!!  We wish him an excellent adventure and can't wait to hear all about it.