In wonder

The other night, my husband's sister and her boyfriend came over for dinner — actually, they brought a really yummy white pizza and we made the dessert, and by that I mean we attempted to replicate the ice box cake my husband's grandmother is known for.

I really enjoy our time together because she and I are finally developing a relationship. While I was engaged, it seemed she saw me as the girl stealing away her older brother. At my wedding shower — she was a bridesmaid — she left early, claiming she had to get to the airport to fly to New York for a modeling gig. I learned the next day she never went to the Big Apple. When she realized I wasn't all that bad and I grew some patience, we actually began to chat often, even sharing similar frustrations about her mother. It's one of the only few things we can relate to because we have so little in common. She was a model, worked at clubs, has a gazillion friends and was pretty rebellious and unreliable.

However, since finding out she was going to become a mom, she has transformed into a completely different person. I'm so proud of her and so excited for what this baby is going to do for her.

As a gift, she and her boyfriend were given the chance to see Gianna through a 3D ultrasound. Because it took so long for the baby to face them, the woman doing the ultrasound gave them a DVD to thank them for their patience, which usually isn't included in the price. They brought it over with them and let me tell you, I have hardly ever been as intrigued or amazed. We laughed because she continued to bring her foot up to her face, then her arm. Her tiny hands were already opened and a few times, she stuck out her tongue. Hilarious.

When the time comes for us to start a family, my husband and I aren't going to find out what we're having. We decided that a while ago, along with keeping the name to ourselves. It'll be hard to wait, I'm sure, but so worth it. I think there are just so few surprises left in life ... still, it was neat looking at my niece.

Anyway, watching the video, I learned something I hadn't before: babies open their eyes in the womb! Amazing. My sister-in-law said that sometimes, they will put a flashlight up to her belly and they can see Giana pressing against the light. The other thing we were awed by — babies being able to live nine months in fluid and then immediately begin to breathe when they come into the world.

It just reinforces the wonder of our Heavenly Father, the miracle that is life and the knowing all of the intricate details only he could have imagined and designed.

I know my little niece is going to be so beautiful. We could already see. We want her to be here so badly! Just three more weeks!

Young at Heart

At least twice a year, my husband and I travel back to his hometown of Philadelphia to visit family. It's always a real eye-opener for me because there is just one pocket of the city I can relate to — and if I could afford a $500,000 rowhome, would live there with them. They indulge in local coffee shops, check out new exhibits at the art museum and enjoy expensive taste, strolling around stores in Center City, such as Williams-Sonoma and Banana Republic.

Throughout the remainder of the city, its residents are very simple and very laid back. They desire nothing fancy, but will pay for a great meal out — and trust me, there are some amazing, authentic places to pick from. They have their own favorite cheesesteak spot, are extremely loyal to their four sports teams — whose stadiums encircle each other — and have had the same friends and neighbors for the last 20-30 years. To back up that cliche, it does feel like the city of brotherly love, save for the car horns going off in busy intersections.

I fell in love with Philly the first time I visited three years ago. I love the skyline, the history and the attractions, and I thought it was so unique — as well as unusual — that the city is mostly made up of rowhomes that have no accompanying yards or driveways and that people can get away with double parking. Everywhere.

My husband — whose accent re-emerges as soon as we enter the city limits — was initially so excited for me to meet his grandparents. His 85-year-old maternal grandparents live a few blocks from the aforementioned stadiums in a rowhome that they added onto before moving in decades ago. They have their health issues, but you'd hardly know it. His grandfather can hardly see, but both he and his wife have impeccable hearing. They do their own housecleaning, laundry and shopping — someone drives them, of course — and his grandmother is an amazing cook. I could live soley off of her rice pudding — and pay the price - and my husband will only rave over her pasta sauce, er 'gravy.' Each day, she has a small glass of red wine, a routine that seems to have paid off. Five children, 14 grandchildren — spouses included — and almost four great-grandchildren later, they are still sharp, witty and aware. It amazes me.

I'm amused when we stay with them because the highlight of their day is watching TV, even when we are there. They have all of their programs figured out, from Judge Judy to game shows - Family Feud and Wheel of Fortune are musts - to CSI and Animal Planet. I don't completely blame them. Neither one can drive anymore and their closest child lives about a 45 minute drive away in Jersey. I don't know what I'd do in the house all day long. For Christmas, the youngest son bought them a little parakeet - after he bought his twin girls two of their own, whom they named Simon and Theodore. My husband's grandmother had to play along, naming her new bird Alvin. Her new addition is somewhat entertaining for her, though apparently she has long called animals retarded because they can't take care of themselves.

My husband's other grandmother lives fairly close by and I could spend hours with her. When we first met, it was as if we'd known each other for years. She, also 85, took the spotlight at our wedding almost two years ago when she flew out onto the dance floor once the band began to play "Tarantella." My adorable 75-year-old grandmother, who has always longed to be Italian, joined in and the two were a hit. It's hard for me to put into words "Grandmom" Rita, pictured left. She also lives in a rowhome and walks to get her groceries, go to church, get her hair done and visit the dentist. She's blunt, but sweet and I laugh at her mannerisms. She is the biggest worrier, yet constantly prays. Her husband died about 10 years ago and I think she still aches for him every day. While my husband and I were still engaged, she'd shake her fist at the sky and yell at her "Arty" for being gone. It's so sweet - and heartbreaking.

My point to all of these stories ... I want to know their secret for staying so sharp, so witty, so mindful - so young. I could carry on a conversation with each of them and they wouldn't miss a beat. I long to take something from them all so I'll have a special memory when they're gone. I hope they're around for years to come.