Dolphin Trainer

Sunday, June 14, 2015 by  

Cruise ship 2How we kept it a surprise I have no idea! After weeks of planning and several days cruising across the Atlantic on the gorgeous Norwegian Breakaway, we landed at King’s Wharf and headed barely after daybreak onshore with our Little One.

“Why are we leaving so early? Where are we going?” Still mum, Phillip & I guided our inquisitive daughter to a huge, weathered wooden door battered by storms but fixed firmly in place by its centuries-old surrounding stonework.
Her eyes grew wide as we knocked loudlyDolphin Trainer, Dolphin Quest, Bermuda, Hawaii, baby dolphins, feeding dolphins, gating, measuring, loving dolphins (18) on the door. No one was around but us. A short while later, the door creaked open and we were led into a large courtyard – the National Museum of Bermuda at the Royal Naval Dockyard. It was clear it would not open to the public until later that morning.

We walked through the dockyard until we came to a building where a young woman greeted us. She knew the day had been a surprise for our daughter. When she explained to our Little One that she would be joining her team for a day of dolphin training, the excitement in the room was electric! Then she was handed a Dolphin Quest swim top and felt very official. “Wow!” she whispered under her breathe.Dolphin Trainer, Dolphin Quest, Bermuda, Hawaii, baby dolphins, feeding dolphins, gating, measuring, loving dolphins (15)

Our daughter’s dream of loving, studying, and safeguarding marine life just took another leap forward. Years prior, our family had only swum with the dolphins. Jamaica. Bahamas. Florida. But this was different. It wouldn’t be just a 45-minute encounter with a group. When we saw that Dolphin Quest in Bermuda offered a Dolphin Trainer for a Day program, we booked it for our daughter straightaway.

She spent the day with 8 dolphins including 2 baby dolphins just 3 months old ~ talk about over the moon!

Our Little One gained experience in fish preparation, dolphin feeding, gating, hand signaling, dolphin relationship building, swimming, measuring and dolphin training.

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I’m not sure who had more fun, the dolphins or our darling!

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Dolphin Trainer, Dolphin Quest, Bermuda, Hawaii, baby dolphins, feeding dolphins, gating, measuring, loving dolphins (16)Later that day, she enjoyed lunch with her mentors and when we picked her up at the end of her session, the dolphin trainers said they had never had a person know so much about marine life before and that she was the most excited participant they had ever had in all their years and that she would be a welcome participant for their 5-day training program there or in….Hawaii!! Yeah, looks like that may be the next dolphin destination! I’m ready to pack…

Dolphin Trainer, Dolphin Quest, Bermuda, Hawaii, baby dolphins, feeding dolphins, gating, measuring, loving dolphins (19)

bright spot flowerThe Bright Spot  – Our daughter has been waiting 5 years to swim with her beloved Beluga, Juno.

Beluga, Juno, Mystic Aquarium, touching whale, touching Beluga

She learned about the program when she was 5 years old but the rules require people to be a minimum of 60 inches to get in the tank with the whale.

 

So guess who’s 59 & 3/4 inches?!?

Yes, I think we are heading to Juno before summer’s done! (photo of Little One with Juno left). It’s truly a pleasure to empower children’s interests.

Click here for the story about Juno at 5: Harmony & Magic

Click here for the Florida dolphin swim at 6: Pixie Dust & Dolphin Kisses

Click here for Dolphins in Jamaica at 7: Paradise for Families

Click here for Winter & Hope at 10: A Dolphin’s Tale

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Bianca

Color a Positive Thought – 10-year-old’s Perspective

Wednesday, May 6, 2015 by  

My husband met Harry Bell by happenstance.Color a Positive Thought, C.A.P.T., Harry Bell, positive thinking, positive coloring book, coloring book (7)

If anyone understands the value of early intervention, positive thinking, and the reinforcement of basic values, it is Harry Bell.

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He was born in Bridgeport to a troubled young mother, and raised by his aunt, who realized he needed a male role model.

His aunt connected him with a local family who had a son that ended up being Harry’s 3rd grade teacher.

 

Color a Positive Thought, C.A.P.T., Harry Bell, positive thinking, positive coloring book, coloring book (5)

Their efforts paid off. Today Harry Bell is employed by both the Bridgeport Board of Education and the University of Bridgeport as a Security Officer.

Seeing so many children going through some of the same problems, Harry was determined to do something about it. He developed a very special coloring book, Color a Positive Thought! He explains how it’s an anti-bullying, self-empowering, positive thinking tool in our May 12th broadcast on WGCH radio (archived links below.)

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Color a Positive Thought, C.A.P.T., Harry Bell, positive thinking, positive coloring book, coloring book (9)
The book has had such a positive impact on children & the community. It can be found in schools, pediatrician offices, everywhere!

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Our 10-year-old loves Color a Positive Thought and gives us her perspective on it as a child. Here are some snippets of the second half of the interview, just click image below:


May 12, 2015 ChitChat with Children – a 10-year-old’s perspective

Our daughter’s principal & teachers enjoyed the interview and her 4th grade teacher even played it in the classroom.

Harry Bell, William King, Color a Positive Thought, radio show, WGCHWe were thrilled to give voice to a man who’s had such a difficult upbringing, was able to pull himself up, surpass expectations and fulfill his dream. To hear the full hour, click: Full Interview.

bright spot flowerThe Bright Spot – This was his 1st radio interview and Mr. Bell & his liaison, William King, were amazed at how much this 10-year-old gleaned from Mr. Bell’s book. Very inspiring!

Click here to order the book: Color a Positive Thought


Bianca

Superhero & Baby Sister ~ Turning 10

Tuesday, March 31, 2015 by  

Darling Eyes looking up 2

How time has flown!!Elsa dress (2) Little One turns 10, what a wonderful decade it’s been!

 

 

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Video: Here is a look at the early years with her very own Superhero Big Brother:

VIDEO: Here is a look at the early years with her very own Superhero Big Brother:

bright spot flowerThe Bright SpotTM  – Having an incredible Big Brother to look up to & count on forever!
Smiles - Caribbean 10   Big brother, little sister
Big brother, little sister 2     Reading with Aga Close children (8) Close children (7) Brother, sister, smiles Trampoline, relaxing, summer breeze Baby reaching, loving eyes, kindness Baby reaching, loving eyes, kindness, sweet Reaching - nose to nose, sweet Missing each other, true hearts Walking together, hand in hand, red dress, yellow flowers red dress, yellow flowers, hugs, hugging, siblings trampoline, playing outside, outdoors, healthy kids, laughter hugs, snuggles, purple dress, princess, brother, sister, feeling loved pumpkin picking, looking the same way, sweet brother and sister, hayride Memorial Day, high flying, brother, sister, fun in the sun, fun Snuggles, cuddles, England, sweet Caribbean, sister in pool with brother, playing in pool, baby with brother, sweetness kisses on cheek, sweet baby kisses fairy hugs, hugging little sister, big brother, baby sister, Tinkerbell, Tinkerbell costume, wings, fairy wings Brother and sister smiling, smiles, big smiles together, Big brother, baby sister, happy kids


Bianca

Nifty 50!

Sunday, February 1, 2015 by  

Everyone kept asking me what Phillip was planning for my 50th. He’s arranged some pretty spectacular things for me over the years so I knew whatever it was I’d be thrilled. Our son captured the moment:

Birthday joy, tickets to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Universal Studios, Florida, Orlando, great excitement (2)   Birthday joy, tickets to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Universal Studios, Florida, Orlando, great excitement (3)

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Good Lord! What could it be? Well, prior to opening this envelope, Phillip planned a weekend of delights including dinner at La Panetiere.

Bianca Tyler, birthday, La Panetiere, 5-star restaurant, French cuisine, family, love (4)

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We visited the Cloisters on the northern tip of Manhattan overlooking the Hudson to enjoy the stunning array of more than 5,000 pieces of European Medieval works of art from the 12th – 15th centuries including the famous Unicorn Tapestries. The Cloister’s Library contains over 15,000 volumes of books.

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Later, we toured the World of Wings butterfly atrium where I had my 1st opportunity to take photos with my gorgeous new Canon from my son. For the amount of time I invest in my photography, this latest Canon with touchscreen, image sensor & built-in Wi-Fi was the p-e-r-f-e-c-t gift!! Thank you, darling!

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And if anyone knows our family well, you’ll know why the logo above is so significant!! 🙂

As you can sBebe's necklace (1)ee, this day was magnificent with brilliant sunshine & deep blue skies. But 50 years ago, there was a blizzard and my mother arrived at the hospital with a police escort. That’s one way to make an entrance.

Mom recapped the story over dinner. Then she surprised me with a very special gift…a piece of jewelry I’ve admired for 45 years. It was given to mother by my father’s mother when I was 5.Bianca Tyler, gala, television, broadcaster Bebe's necklace, Miss Connecticut (1)

 

 

 

I’ve worn it in the past with great delight (photo on right), but on this special night, my mother said it was now mine. Overjoyed is an understatement. It means so much to me on many levels.

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Bianca Tyler, birthday, Nifty to be 50, Red Barn, New England, family, love, gifts, The Lets Talk Mom (25)  Bianca Tyler, birthday, Nifty to be 50, Red Barn, New England, family, love, gifts, The Lets Talk Mom (16)

So what was in the envelope in the opening pics? Let me first explain that my greatest gift ~ now & always ~ is being loved by my family & friends. Flowers & cards, emails & posts. All is appreciated. The kindness, the thoughtfulness, the time spent to make my day special. Thank you all!!

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The above cards from my children touched my heart deeply. My son chose a card that says I make him feel understood, happy and loved. Wonderful, wonderful!! And our little one says I make her happy every day…down to even the school snack. What more could any mother want? Happy, thriving kids – this was, by far, the very best gift of all!!

Happy childhood, loving, nurturing, sweet childhood, comfort, understanding, son, Bianca Tyler  Happy childhood, loving, nurturing, sweet childhood, comfort, understanding, son (5)Happy childhood, loving parents, Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts, comfort, understanding, son, Bianca Tyler (3)       Happy childhood, loving, nurturing, sweet childhood, comfort, understanding, daughter, love, Bianca Tyler (7)

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16 years ago, I started the Harry Potter series with our son…reading it in “real time,” that is, waiting each year for another book to be published…standing in line at midnight openings with great anticipation for 1st edition hardcovers. We saw the movies, he had the posters, the comforter set, the throw pillows, the robe, Harry’s wand, etc. He even had a Harry-esque look to him, especially when he got his glasses.

Happy childhood, Harry Potter, posters, white tiger, son, friendship, boys, video games Happy childhood, loving, nurturing, sweet childhood, comfort, understanding, son (6)

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Fast-forward more than a decade and our little daughter & her friends are relishing in the adventures, quoting the spells, whipping up potions and donning the robe. The perfect hardcovers have moved from our son’s room to our daughters’s bookcase. Over the holiday break, we watched all 8 movies (Yes, 8. The last book was filmed in 2 parts).

My friend, Sara, took one of our daughter’s best-est friends (since the girls were infants) to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter last month. The girls are now 9 & 10, the perfect age for the story. Sara posted this video of Platform 9 3/4 on her FB page & that was it!! What more fun could our family have than to venture through the fantastical world of wizards?

Sara said Universal Studios did a magnificent re-creation, a trip not to be missed! With the entire storyline under our belts just the previous month, I could not have dreamed of a more fanciful place to go for my birthday present!! In the envelope was a newspaper-like invitation from the Daily Prophet along with tickets to the mystical world of Harry Potter and a week’s stay at the CoCo Key water resort hotel. Simply marvelous, my darling husband, I love love love it!! And so do the kids!! (Well, as you can clearly see from our little one’s reaction in the 1st photos above as we opened the envelopes together.)

Courtesy of Universal Studios, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Orlando, Florida (1)

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CoCo Key water resort & hotel:

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We finished up the weekend celebrations with my favorite movie, The Scarlet Pimpernel, with Jane Seymour & Anthony Andrews. Luscious ~ Dreamy ~ Yum!

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So many other details went into this weekend that I would just like to say thank you to my husband, my whole family and my friends for marking this milestone with great joy.

bright spot flowerThe Bright SpotTM  – Thankfulness that my mother is feeling better, it’s on & off and for my birthday she was really “on!” Even sparkly! And thank you to all who sent wishes for a beautiful birthday weekend. So ready for this next great decade, bring it on!!


Bianca

Our Moussebaby

Sunday, December 21, 2014 by  

Bianca Tyler  animal lover  dogs  dog  gorgeous eyes (4)

 

If you knew Moussie, you knew he was one of the most loved dogs in the history of forever.

 

 

 

Bianca Tyler  animal lover  dogs  cats  love  devotion  teach children to love animals (75)Saved from a brutal past and surviving on 2 1/2 working legs, we cherished every day together from the time I was 29 until 42.

Moussie was on air with me at the television stations,Bianca Tyler  TV  television  dog on television (3)

Bianca Tyler  animal lover  wedding dog  dog walks Bianca down the aisle (3)he walked me down the aisle at my wedding, Bianca Tyler  animal lover  wedding dog  dog walks Bianca down the aisle (2)he soothed my aching heart when I lost my beloved father, he and our newborn came to work with me every day when we opened our own company, and Moussie adored our son and protected our daughter every single day.

 

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I spent the years ceaselessly protecting & caring for his broken leg & mangled paw, carried him over any asphalt or concrete, lifted him up staircases and into my car…

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…met with prosthetic doctors in Texas, surgeons in Connecticut, boot fitters in New York, and pet massage specialists in Illinois in any effort to help ease the strain & pain on his permanently broken leg.    (Dr. Randie Shane with Moussie)

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When an emergency procedure led to an overnight stay in the hospital – Moussie’s 1st night away from me in an unfamiliar place – I immediately ripped off my shirt in the car and had my husband bring it to the ER vet so Moussie could feel comforted with my scent all night long.

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My husband & son administered an IV in his neck for weeks following.

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There is nothing we would not do for our animals. They are family. We are a tight family.

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We used to jest with friends that if Moussie, Phillip and I were in a canoe and it was sinking and one of us had to get out, Phillip swims. 🙂 (Unbelievably, one person didn’t get it…she said, “Oh, you have a canoe?”  *sigh*)

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People have often quipped if they return from Heaven, they’d like to come back as one of our pets!           Here’s a few reasons why:

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Moussie worked the morning shows with me. My neighbor, Kristi, babysat him till I was done with the noon news. She always had it Bianca Tyler  bandage  paw  animal lover  dogs  chewy toys (4)on the TV so he could hear & see me. He had many wonderful sitters: Stephenie, Adrienne, Mark, Dottie, Kep, John and Shanie, just to name a few.

Reminiscent of Steinbeck’s Travels with Charley, we, too, crisscrossed the United States, enjoying adventures on the free roads, visiting many states and friends along the way.

Bianca Tyler  animal lover  birthday boy  happy birthday  Moussie's birthday (1) Bianca Tyler  animal lover  birthday boy  happy birthday  Moussie's birthday (2) Bianca Tyler  animal lover  birthday boy  happy birthday  Moussie's birthday (3) Bianca Tyler  animal lover  dogs  dog  gorgeous eyes (7) Bianca Tyler  TV  television dog  dog on TV

Birthday dinners of filet mignon, cuddles under the covers, drive-in trips to Sonic, and his fun job at the TV stations listing the school lunch menus on the morning show and assisting with the weather, and even the contest “Where’s Moussie?” for viewers spotting him around town. Moussie was loved and cherished every minute of his life in our family.

Raised by grandmothers & mothers who were healers and lovers of animals, it was natural for Phillip and I to instill deep compassion, respect and love of all animals. All children should be taught kindness toward every creature, big & small.

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Bianca Tyler  animal lover  dogs  cats  love  devotion  teach children to love animals (185) Bianca Tyler  animal lover  dolphin  dolphins  teach children to love animals (242) Bianca Tyler  animal lover  horse  teach children to love animals (223)   Bianca Tyler  animal lover  snuggly  teach children to love animals (204)  Bianca Tyler  animal lover  toddler snuggling her dog  teach children to love animals (64) Bianca Tyler  snuggles  teach children kindness and to love animals (17)

Bianca Tyler  animal lover  sweet pony  pony  Bianca Tyler  snuggles  teach children kindness and to love animals (18) Bianca Tyler  snuggles  teach children kindness and to love animals (23)       Bianca Tyler  snuggles  teach children kindness and to love animals (28)

Bianca Tyler  snuggles  teach children kindness and to love animals (36)    Bianca Tyler  animal lover  dogs  cats  love  devotion  teach children to love animals (34) Bianca Tyler  soft hands  soft voices  be gentle to animals (6) Bianca Tyler  soft hands  soft voices  be gentle to animals (7) Bianca Tyler  soft hands  soft voices  be gentle to animals (11) Bianca Tyler  soft hands  soft voices  be gentle to animals (18)

No words were better spoken than those of Don Vincenzo Giobbe, circa 1700: “…and I whispered to the horse: trust no man in whose eye you don’t see yourself reflected as an equal.”

The Healing

Such is our belief for all animals…so it is no wonder our 8-year-old daughter published her 1st book, The Healing, How Little Kids Can Help Even the Tiniest Critters, and she has been busy with author’s visits/book signings and will sit on a panel of doctors & healers in a few weeks to discuss her book from a child’s perspective. (Author’s Visit with 77 children/10 adults)The Healing book signing  author's visit

 

 

 

 

 

Teaching children to use gentle voices and soft hands is so important.

Bianca Tyler  soft hands  soft voices  be gentle to animals (2)  Bianca Tyler  snuggles  teach children kindness and to love animals (27)   Bianca Tyler  soft hands  soft voices  be gentle to animals (9)  Bianca Tyler  soft hands  soft voices  be gentle to animals (8) Bianca Tyler  soft hands  soft voices  be gentle to animals (10)  Bianca Tyler  soft hands  soft voices  be gentle to animals (13)

Teaching kindness, compassion, respect and tenderness is the premise for my children’s book,        Moussie Tales, due out when I finally find the perfect illustrator who can actually capture Moussie’s eyes, an ongoing search, indeed.

The understanding and care you show your children yields understanding and care to those in the world around them.

Bianca Tyler  understanding  teach children to love animals (178) Bianca Tyler  understanding  teach children to love animals (179)

Over the years, Moussie thrived along with all of our family’s animals and life was great.

Bianca Tyler  animal lover  moussietales.com

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Bianca Tyler  animal lover  dogs  cats  bright window Bianca Tyler  animal lover  dogs  cats  cat  love (1)  Bianca Tyler  animal lover  dogs  cats  love  devotion  teach children to love animals (28)  Bianca Tyler  animal lover  dogs  cats  love  devotion  teach children to love animals (87)  Bianca Tyler  animal lover  dogs  cats  love  devotion  teach children to love animals (44) Bianca Tyler  animal lover  dogs  cats  love  devotion  teach children to love animals (65) Bianca Tyler  animal lover  dogs  cats  love  devotion  teach children to love animals (67) Bianca Tyler  animal lover  dogs  cats  love  devotion  teach children to love animals (85)Bianca Tyler  animal lover  dogs  cats  love  devotion  teach children to love animals (82) Bianca Tyler  animal lover  dogs  cats  love  devotion  teach children to love animals (94) Bianca Tyler  animal lover  dogs  cats  love  devotion  teach children to love animals (96)Bianca Tyler  animal lover  dogs  cats  love  devotion  teach children to love animals (100) Bianca Tyler  animal lover  dogs  cats  love  devotion  teach children to love animals (97) Bianca Tyler  animal lover  dogs  cats  love  devotion  teach children to love animals (108) Bianca Tyler  animal lover  dogs  cats  love  devotion  teach children to love animals (127)  Bianca Tyler  snuggles  teach children kindness and to love animals (41)

Bianca Tyler  animal lover  dogs  cats  love  devotion  teach children to love animals (152) Bianca Tyler  animal lover  dogs  cats  love  devotion  teach children to love animals (154)

Bianca Tyler  animal lover  dogs  cats  love  devotion  teach children to love animals (197) Bianca Tyler  animal lover  dogs  cats  love  devotion  teach children to love animals (222) Bianca Tyler  animal lover  dogs  chewy toys (2) Bianca Tyler  cozy window  animal lover  dogs  cats  love  devotion  teach children to love animals (1)cu   Bianca Tyler  princess snuggles  Cinderella hugs (1)    Bianca Tyler  snuggles  teach children kindness and to love animals (26)

Bianca Tyler  snuggles  teach children kindness and to love animals (57)  Bianca Tyler  animal lover  dogs  cats  love  devotion  teach children to love animals (83)

We spent many beautiful years with Moussie, and when he passed away, a huge part of my heart went with him. (Getting the worst news ever from the vet on my 42nd birthday)

Bianca Tyler  animal lover  incredible saddness  loss  despair  Rainbow Bridge (3)

Saying our good-byes.

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Days of yesteryear…

Bianca Tyler  animal lover  dogs  cats  love  devotion  teach children to love animals (72)

The final goodbye 🙁

Bianca Tyler  animal lover  incredible saddness  loss  despair  Rainbow Bridge (10)

Shattered and lying in bed, I wrote Moussie a letter that raw and painful day he crossed over Rainbow Bridge waiting till I would once again embrace him in my arms. I didn’t know my husband found the letter on my laptop and built an entire website dedicated to Moussie around it! Www.MoussieTales.com People wrote the loveliest comments on his Remembrance Page, thank you all!

The Bright SpotTM bright spot flower- Our darling Moussebaby brought us years & years of joy. For that, we are forever grateful. When our neighbor brought us The Rainbow Bridge poem, it was the only thing that eventually comforted me. Picturing Moussie running freely without pain, the wind flapping about his beautiful soft ears, eased my pain. Until I hug you again, rest my sweet, precious Moussie. I love you!!


Bianca

The Making of a Superhero

Sunday, September 28, 2014 by  

Superhero Big Brother, swimming, pool

Is he a kite-flyer?  Is he a trampoline-flipper?  Is he a bike-fixer?  Yes, he’s Superhero Big Brother!!

Superhero and Little Petal, Big Brother, little sister, rugged play, trampoline, flipping Superhero and Little Petal, Big Brother, little sister, phenomenal bond

Superhero and Little Petal, Big Brother, little sister, raising me, carrying me, fixing a boo-boo, strong brother Superhero and Little Petal, Big Brother, little sister, firefighter uniform, ballerina

A hurricane protector, a shoe-tier, a cookie dough-maker, a tree climber, a boo-boo fixer, an Easter egg opener, a stuck zipper fixer, a skating racer, a perfect-pumpkin-picker, a snuggly dude, a super swing-pusher, the best storyteller, the technology teacher, the family-endorsed official opener of all packaged holiday toys, and, of course, an honorary member of the stroller posse! But most importantly, the kindest big brother who nurtures and protects his baby sister.
Superhero and Little Petal, Big Brother, little sister, sledding, snow, snow fun Superhero and Little Petal, Big Brother, little sister, pumpking picking

Superhero and Little Petal, Big Brother, little sister, Caribbean, pool, swimming pool, baby playing with big brother in the pool   Superhero and Little Petal, Big Brother, little sister, silliness, snuggles, gotcha

Superhero and Little Petal, Big Brother, little sister, Hurricane Irene, hurricane recovery, protective hug   Superhero and Little Petal, Big Brother, little sister, 1st Day of Life, proud big brother holds baby sister

People often ask how we got such phenomenally-bonded children. As parents, when you show love, tenderness and respect to each other and to your children, it filters through the family, growing and bonding it together with immeasurable strength.

Superhero and Little Petal, Big Brother, little sister, sleeping on brother's shoulder, peaceful sleep   Superhero and Little Petal, Big Brother, little sister, Tinkerbell costume, snuggles and hugs   Superhero and Little Petal, Big Brother, little sister, first baby teeth, so cute, Thanksgiving

Superhero and Little Petal, Big Brother, little sister, nose to nose, sweet siblings, adorable moments, pure love, emotions and innocence    Superhero and Little Petal, Big Brother, little sister, birthday celebrations, birthday cake, birthday bite

Superhero and Little Petal, Big Brother, little sister, zipping coat, helping  Superhero and Little Petal, Big Brother, little sister, teaching something new   Superhero and Little Petal, Big Brother, little sister, toesies

Superhero and Little Petal, Big Brother, little sister, cool you drive now  Superhero and Little Petal, Big Brother, little sister, taking a walk, red flower dress and uniform, brick walk

Superhero and Little Petal, Big Brother, little sister, understanding, are you kidding me, so funny    Superhero and Little Petal, Big Brother, little sister, chocolate chip cookies, making cookies

And from that strength, the freedom to love and express kindness and thoughtfulness is just natural.

Superhero and Little Petal, Big Brother, little sister, you can do it, sledding, confidence, assurance Superhero and Little Petal, Big Brother, little sister, nose to nose, bonding through love and connection

Superhero and Little Petal, Big Brother, little sister, scooter, skateboard     Superhero and Little Petal, Big Brother, little sister, big snuggle

Our son was 13 when our daughter was born. He was a part of the whole pregnancy journey, from building the crib and changing table with Dad, to using the zapper at Babies-R-Us to register for the baby. The baby shower was a huge party, not just for ladies, but for all friends, young and old, male and female, and our son was center stage as the new Superhero-in-the-making!

Superhero and Little Petal, Big Brother, little sister, Caribbean, giggles in the pool, lifting up little sister   Superhero and Little Petal, Big Brother, little sister, the early years, reaching, bonding, having fun

Superhero and Little Petal, Big Brother, little sister, snuggles in the Caribbean, heart in the sunset   Superhero and Little Petal, Big Brother, little sister, trust, love, understanding

We put him in charge of opening the gifts which he unwrapped with great zeal seeing all the items he had zapped weeks earlier. He was an integral part of every step. And the day his baby sister was born, she gave him an I-pod, so, of course, she was just the coolest!

Superhero and Little Petal, Big Brother, little sister, understanding, that was funny, closeness   Superhero and Little Petal, Big Brother, little sister, snuggles with Snoopy, Snoopy

Superhero and Little Petal, Big Brother, little sister, England, snuggles and kisses, I love you   Superhero and Little Petal, Big Brother, little sister, giggles, tickles, lots of fun, playing, silliness

When he held her that 1st day, he marveled, “She can’t even lift her own head.” I looked at him wearily and smiled, “No, she depends on us for everything, and she will look to you to teach her the most amazing things.

Superhero and Little Petal, Big Brother, little sister, giggles, tickles, lots of fun, playing, silliness    Superhero and Little Petal, Big Brother, little sister, medieval princess, snuggles  Superhero and Little Petal, Big Brother, little sister, precious  Superhero and Little Petal, Big Brother, little sister, teen stroller posse

Superhero and Little Petal, Big Brother, little sister, comfort, security, loving my big brother   Superhero and Little Petal, Big Brother, little sister, that is SO funny, hysterical, between brother and sister

Superhero and Little Petal, Big Brother, little sister, running to my Superhero (1) Superhero and Little Petal, Big Brother, little sister, running to my Superhero (2) Superhero and Little Petal, Big Brother, little sister, running to my Superhero (3) Superhero and Little Petal, Big Brother, little sister, running to my Superhero (4)
She will always look at you as her Superhero for the rest of her life. We are very proud of you.”

Superhero in uniform  Superhero Big Brother, adorable  Superhero and Little Petal, Big Brother, little sister, volunteer firefighter team member, strong big brother, looking up to brother

The Bright SpotTM bright spot flower  – Our daughter just turned 9 last week. Our son turned 22. He is a Superhero in our daughter’s eyes…and ours.


Bianca

Stroke at 47!

Wednesday, May 28, 2014 by  

Bianca Tyler, best friend in England, Godmother, wedding, castle, joy (11)An interesting turn of events 26 years ago would wind & wiggle and eventually lead me to my dream man. I lived in England with a woman who would not only become one of my very best friends in the world…like a sister, but who would introduce me to my husband. I am the Godmother of her sweet daughter (seen here in her arms which also happens to be her 1st birthday) and my sister is Godmother to one of her sons. I’m indebted to her forever for my amazing husband & darling children.

Bianca Tyler, best friend in England, Godmother, wedding, castle, joy (2)So when I received the phone call that she had had sudden hemorrhaging in her brain and was in the hospital’s acute stroke ward, we immediately booked a flight to England. As I stared out the window, I felt a rush of emotions & memories flood my mind.Bianca Tyler, best friends, hen night, wedding, roommates, love and trust

I thought about the day we met under bizarre circumstances that led me to live in her house for 6 weeks; even though she had just gotten married.

It was supposed to be an overnight. Both she and her husband said I could stay as long as I’d like.

So I did.

Bianca Tyler, best friend in England, York, boat ride     Bianca Tyler, best friend in England, Godmother, York
I remember them taking me sightseeing around England (above: York) and Bianca Tyler, best friend in England, Vermont, picking Vermont apples, apple pickingI took them apple picking in Vermont (left), trips to the City, and tours through the colonial towns of Connecticut.

I remember blasting their stereo to my Madonna cassettes I toted to England in my plastic pink cassette case – it was the 80s, you know. They worked by day & I danced in long t-shirts around their house to Bon Jovi, Def Leppard and the Talking Heads.

I’d jog around their little village and chit chat with the neighbors, shop owners and the folks gardening along my way. By evening, I was all abuzz with the latest goings on.Bianca Tyler, best friend in England, Godmother, wedding, castle, joy (3)

Then back in the States, I remember the train ride to New York City to see a George Michael concert – gotta love those glasses!

And I was so happy my friend & her husband were there the night I earned the Miss Connecticut title heading to the Miss America competition & at the party for my parent’s 25th wedding anniversary.
Bianca Tyler, Godmother, Godchildren

I remember the excited but weary phone call from England the moment her 1st son was born…he’s now 22 and lived with us for 7 weeks this past year. I was thrilled when she requested I be there for the birth of her daughter. Long story for another day…

And after my dear friend suffered several miscarriages &Bianca Tyler, best friend in England, Godmother, pregnant was experiencing a very high-risk pregnancy, she still boarded a plane Bianca Tyler, best friend in England, Godmother, Godchild, pregnant, Father, Sisterimmediately to be by my side the day my beloved father died (click this link for pictorial: Daddy).

 

 

So there was no way I was not going to get on a plane as soon possible so I could hug a woman I admire and love so much.

Bianca Tyler, best friend in England, Godmother, home Bianca Tyler, best friend in England, Godmother, wedding, castle, joy (14)
………….Home with us relaxing                         My friend, Goddaughter, sister & me in England

The Bright SpotTM bright spot flower – Cherish those you love. Give all of your heart to those who love you. Don’t waste time with people who aren’t sincere. There’s an expiration date on life, don’t miss any opportunities to hug those you love.
Bianca Tyler, best friend in England, Godmother, wedding, castle, joy (9) Bianca Tyler, best friend in England, Godmother, wedding, castle, joy (10)
Doctors say they cannot operate on my dear friend because the bleeding is too close to the stem and one wrong move would end her life. Later today she undergoes another MRI. Prayers needed. With 3 children and a great husband, she’s taking life one day at a time. Doctors say the best thing she can do now is slow down. Perhaps a lesson for us all…to slow down…look around & give thanks for who you have in your life. I am grateful to have such wonderful friends. xo~b

Bianca Tyler, best friend in England, Godmother, wedding, castle, joy (12)


Bianca

Reunited After 23 Years

Monday, March 17, 2014 by  

Family, family reunion, family reunites, 23-year reunion, love, happiness, joy, greeting, hugs, England, London (17)

Long before Facebook, Twitter, email, Smartphones & Androids, there was the regular land line.

I made a phone call to my Uncle in London that I was in Lancashire for the summer. “You must come and visit, we’ll pick you up.” He and my Auntie drove 4 hours north to get me. They had 5 girls and the summer was one I’ll never forget!

Family, family reunion, family reunites, 23-year reunion, love, happiness, joy, greeting, hugs, England, London (6)a

 

But, eventually, Autumn came and I headed back to the States and into my routine. Days turned into months and months into years. Family, family reunion, family reunites, 23-year reunion, love, happiness, joy, greeting, hugs, England, London (4)Before I knew it, 23 years had flown by.

In that time, my 5 cousins had married and everyone had moved, even their parents; some to other parts of London, others to California & Florida. Family, family reunion, family reunites, 23-year reunion, love, happiness, joy, greeting, hugs, England, London (3)a

I was reminiscing one evening about that summer and my son asked why I didn’t get in touch with them.

Family, family reunion, hugs, happiness, joy, 23-year reunion (3)“How? We lost touch more than 20 years ago.” He asked me their names and worked his Facebook magic. I didn’t use Facebook at the time and was skeptical.

Family, family reunion, family reunites, 23-year reunion, love, happiness, joy, greeting, hugs, England, London (13)Within 24 hours, one of my cousins who had moved out West responded and we were on the phone for ages!

 

Family, family reunion, family reunites, 23-year reunion, love, happiness, joy, greeting, hugs, England, London (9)A short while later, our family was reunited in London with 2 of the sisters who had stayed in England. I was just bursting with joy! An event to remember forever!Family, family reunion, family reunites, 23-year reunion, love, happiness, joy, greeting, hugs, England, London (12)

Family, family reunion, family reunites, 23-year reunion, love, happiness, joy, greeting, hugs, England, London (15)

The Bright SpotTM bright spot flower  –   I am so thankful to my Uncle & Auntie for making that visit one of the most treasured summers of my life. Interestingly, that summer would cause a chain of events that would lead me to my husband more than a decade later. Amazing how our lives are so intertwined then, now and always.

The girls now with their parents & one of my favorites of them when they were little. I love you all, my dear family!! xoxo

Family, 5 girls, parents and children, years gone byFamily, 5 girls, little kids, little girls, family together
(Below) With my Uncle 23 years ago and Uncle’s portrait over my Cousin’s & my shoulder

Bianca Tyler, cousins, England, London, Uncle's portrait (1) Bianca Tyler, Uncle, England, London, summer


Bianca

Undressing for a Cause

Sunday, March 2, 2014 by  

Son  proud  growing up  charity  Special Olympics  donations  kindness_Our son came home & announced he’s taking off his clothes and jumping in frigid waters.

What?!?

Freezin’ for a Reason’s Penguin Plunge challenge supports Special Olympics Connecticut.

Participants will strip down to their swim trunks or bathing suits and run into the icy waters of The Sound on March 8th.

This year’s goal is $90,000.

As of this post, $21,000 has been raised.

Every dollar counts and your donation is tax deductible.

If you would like to contribute, please send me a message at Bianca@BiancaTyler.com and I will forward you the direct link to this Special Olympics project.

Son, proud, growing up, charity, Special Olympics, donations, kindness, Penguin Plunge, Freezin' for a Reason (1)     Son, proud, growing up, charity, Special Olympics, donations, kindness, Penguin Plunge, Freezin' for a Reason (4)
We are very proud of our son. At 19 years old, he was the Captain of his team in the Relay for Life American Cancer Society fundraiser. He and his team walked the full 24-hours through day and night and day again raising thousands.

Son, proud, growing up, charity, Special Olympics, donations, kindness, Penguin Plunge, Freezin' for a Reason (7) Charity, Special Olympics, donations, kindness, Penguin Plunge, Freezin' for a Reason (3)

Son, proud, growing up, charity, Special Olympics, donations, kindness, Penguin Plunge, Freezin' for a Reason (2)

The Bright SpotTM bright spot flower – Not quite sure how our little boy grew up so fast, time surely flies, but one thing is for sure, we are proud of his dedication to great causes and hope you decide to help as he prepares to take the bitterly cold Penguin Plunge for Special Olympics Connecticut!

Son, proud, growing up, charity, Special Olympics, donations, kindness_


Bianca

Positively Me!

Saturday, February 8, 2014 by  

Friends, happy girls, 3rd graders, fun, friendship, pure joy

The Positively Me program offered to 3rd grade girls to boost confidence, teach assertiveness & expression, and offer strategies to prevent bullying was positively fantastic!

Offered free by the Junior League of Greenwich, this intensive 2-day event encourages new friendships while the girls develop strength and resilience through skits & role playing, dance, journaling & thoughtful conversations about the painful consequences of bullying.

Let's Talk, Talk Radio, WGCH radio, Bianca & Phillip, Bianca Tyler, Bianca Tyler's husband, Life, Love & Parenting show, parenting radio

Why 3rd grade?

Unfortunately, bullying is starting earlier & earlier; it’s a topic Phillip & I have covered often over the past 15 Seasons on our parenting radio show “Let’s Talk!” currently on WGCH, formerly on WSTC & WNLK. (All shows are                           (All shows are archived on this site.)

Little Girls Can Be Mean, 4-Steps to Bully-Proof Girls, Early Grades, Dr. Michelle AnthonyOne of our popular recurrent guests and parenting experts, Dr. Michelle Anthony, experienced something similar with her little 2nd grade daughter. That painful situation prompted her to co-author Little Girls Can Be Mean – 4 Steps to Bully-Proof Girls in the Early Grades.

Positively Me: only 4 sessions per year, 36 girls per session. The program has run for 5 years and waiting lists get longer year after year. It was marvelous to see the girls beaming each evening at pick-up, full of laughter and stories and joy.

Positively Me, Positively Me program, Junior League of Greenwich, button page, button braceletThey brought home beautiful button bracelets that matched button cards where each color represented something special, drawings/writings/self-portraits in their special journals, t-shirts with signatures of each participant, water bottles, sparkly feather pens, tote bags with the adorable Positively Me logo and mountains of coping skills to nip future snafus in the bud!  Positively Me logo, Positively Me program, Junior League of Greenwich, anti-bullying

The program taught them to take pride in themselves and their accomplishments; achieve great things; stand up for what they believe in and to be Positively Me!

The girls had a special visit from a martial arts Sensei (master) who had them write their greatest fear on a wooden board and then he taught each girl how to smash through that wood with their bare hands…breaking through their fear. That was a popular activity! Other events included a yoga class, pajama party and crafting dog toys to donate to Adopt-A-Dog.

Happy kid, happy girl, high self-esteem, positive look on life, strong, smart, positive, kind, thoughtful (1)It is no wonder this program continues to grow and expand.

The Bright SpotTM bright spot flower – A poem – with permission from our 8-year-old - to share with you written in her Positively Me journal:

STAND STRONG:

LOVE is my Guardian

When Days like Today Get in my Way,

I’ll STAND STRONG!

Journaling during this 2-day event:

Positively Me Snippet
 


Bianca

Granddad with his Beloved Once More

Tuesday, November 26, 2013 by  

Granddad is loved and missed, loving family, Granddad joins his beloved Grandma, hugs and kisses, grandchildren (12)It was a long 2 years without Grandma but she came calling for Granddad in his dreams this week.

Granddad is loved and missed, loving family, Granddad joins his beloved Grandma, hugs and kisses, grandchildren (28)

 

 

 

 

 

He      He became deaf, and she turned blind just a few years ago, but they always sat beside one another for 60 years, and when she was gone, he lived in silence beside an empty chair in the den. Click here: Is This The End?

Granddad is loved and missed, loving family, Granddad joins his beloved Grandma, hugs and kisses, grandchildren (2)

Granddad fell in love with Grandma instantly. She was engaged, but that didn’t deter him. He knew she was his only one and promised to love her till the end of her life. They married and he fulfilled that promise day after day.

He was determined like that. He fibbed about his age to defend his country in World War II saying he was 18 when he was really 16.

He was stationed in France, and worked as a specialist sending morse code messages when his communication’s truck was hit by a mortar and his arm was blown off.

Granddad is loved and missed, loving family, Granddad joins his beloved Grandma, hugs and kisses, grandchildren (20)  Granddad is loved and missed, loving family, Granddad joins his beloved Grandma, hugs and kisses, grandchildren (39)                    A female physician – rare to have a female doctor in the war zone in France at that time – sewed it back on…it functioned perfectly!

  Granddad is loved and missed, loving family, Granddad joins his beloved Grandma, hugs and kisses, grandchildren (22) Granddad is loved and missed, loving family, Granddad joins his beloved Grandma, hugs and kisses, grandchildren (4) Granddad is loved and missed, loving family, Granddad joins his beloved Grandma, hugs and kisses, grandchildren (9) Granddad is loved and missed, loving family, Granddad joins his beloved Grandma, hugs and kisses, grandchildren (8)

Granddad is loved and missed, loving family, Granddad joins his beloved Grandma, hugs and kisses, grandchildren (35)  Granddad is loved and missed, loving family, Granddad joins his beloved Grandma, hugs and kisses, grandchildren (31) 

Granddad is loved and missed, loving family, Granddad joins his beloved Grandma, hugs and kisses, grandchildren (30)  Granddad is loved and missed, loving family, Granddad joins his beloved Grandma, hugs and kisses, grandchildren (5)

Granddad was sharp as a tack with very dry humor. Once, he was in the hospital for a respiratory illness that required a chest x-ray. The doctor came into his room looking shocked. “I don’t know how to tell you this,” he said, “but you only have 1 lung and it appears where your other lung should be is a black mark that could be a tumor.” “Oh, that other lung shriveled up years ago,” Granddad answered matter-of-factly, “forgot to tell you.”

Granddad is loved and missed, loving family, Granddad joins his beloved Grandma, hugs and kisses, grandchildren (25)

Grandma & Granddad gave our little one Tidmouth Sheds for her train table. I put a photograph of them next to it so she could link that the gift was from them. I do that with many special presents so the kids know from whom it came.

Granddad is loved and missed, loving family, Granddad joins his beloved Grandma, hugs and kisses, grandchildren (23)Granddad is loved and missed, loving family, Granddad joins his beloved Grandma, hugs and kisses, grandchildren (26)Granddad is loved and missed, loving family, Granddad joins his beloved Grandma, hugs and kisses, grandchildren (11)

Granddad is loved and missed, loving family, Granddad joins his beloved Grandma, hugs and kisses, grandchildren (24)

Our daughter said she will never give up her piano from Granddad even if she plans for a grand piano in her future. “It will go somewhere special in my house and I will keep it forever!”

Just as Granddads do, he was the explainer of all things.

Granddad is loved and missed, loving family, Granddad joins his beloved Grandma, hugs and kisses, grandchildren (38) Granddad is loved and missed, loving family, Granddad joins his beloved Grandma, hugs and kisses, grandchildren (3)

Granddad is loved and missed, loving family, Granddad joins his beloved Grandma, hugs and kisses, grandchildren (17) Granddad is loved and missed, loving family, Granddad joins his beloved Grandma, hugs and kisses, grandchildren (36)

No place was better than on Granddad’s knee…

Granddad is loved and missed, loving family, Granddad joins his beloved Grandma, hugs and kisses, grandchildren (29) Granddad is loved and missed, loving family, Granddad joins his beloved Grandma, hugs and kisses, grandchildren (37)

Granddad is loved and missed, loving family, Granddad joins his beloved Grandma, hugs and kisses, grandchildren (27)

 

Granddad is loved and missed, loving family, Granddad joins his beloved Grandma, hugs and kisses, grandchildren (16)                                      …& on his back!

Or hanging out grabbing a drink at the pub.

Granddad is loved and missed, loving family, Granddad joins his beloved Grandma, hugs and kisses, grandchildren (18) Granddad is loved and missed, loving family, Granddad joins his beloved Grandma, hugs and kisses, grandchildren (19)

Granddad slowly went deaf in his late years. Soon he could only hear female voices. Later, on the phone, he could only hear mine – high-pitched & loud, I’m told. But then came the day when even my voice was inaudible.

Granddad is loved and missed, loving family, Granddad joins his beloved Grandma, hugs and kisses, grandchildren (33) Granddad is loved and missed, loving family, Granddad joins his beloved Grandma, hugs and kisses, grandchildren (13)

Granddad is loved and missed, loving family, Granddad joins his beloved Grandma, hugs and kisses, grandchildren (14) Granddad is loved and missed, loving family, Granddad joins his beloved Grandma, hugs and kisses, grandchildren (6)

Granddad is loved and missed, loving family, Granddad joins his beloved Grandma, hugs and kisses, grandchildren (7)It was crushing for me because I like family to stay connected especially because we are so far away.

Granddad was 88 years old. He wasn’t on a computer. I immediately printed out this website and Phillip had it bound and we sent these 300 pages of family stories and photos to Granddad in book form so he could read them over time at his leisure and keep up with family news he could no longer hear. Granddad is loved and missed, loving family, Granddad joins his beloved Grandma, hugs and kisses, grandchildren (15)

He was kind and sweet and dear and loving. He will be deeply missed by the family. But he’s in his beloved’s arms once again and that gives us great solace. Granddad is loved and missed, loving family, Granddad joins his beloved Grandma, hugs and kisses, grandchildren (32)

The Bright Spot TM – bright spot flower We did not lose Granddad, for someone is only lost if their memories aren’t kept alive. We’re a picture-snapping, video-taking, storytelling family, so Granddad lives on. Thank you for sharing his story.

Granddad is loved and missed, loving family, Granddad joins his beloved Grandma, hugs and kisses, grandchildren (10)


Bianca

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