Favorite Photo Friday - "We Met Giada"

March 30, 2012

First glimpse through the crowd BLOG
Last night my Mom and I stood in line with about a thousand other people at our local Wegmans to meet Giada De Laurentiis and have her sign a copy of her new cookbook that was just released this week. I knew there would be a lot of people, but never in my wildest dreams did I think it would be as crazy as it was. Giada was scheduled to be there from 5-7pm, but based on the number of people that had tickets, I would guess she was there until 11pm still signing away. Luckily, I have a fabulous Mom who went to the store at 2pm and got a voucher so that we could be in the first group of people to meet her after the VIPs. The staff had a huge job trying to keep things secure and orderly and there were lots of rules that needed to be followed. Unfortunately with the amount of people that were there, Giada was not posing for photos, but you could take pictures of her as she signed from certain areas. One of which being the line as you approached her. This was my first view of her through the guys that were standing in front of us.

We Met Giada COLLAGE BLOG
And just in case you were wondering, she is even more beautiful in person than she is on TV.... if that is possible. She radiates beauty, from her flawless skin to her vibrant and cute personality! She took the time to speak to all of her fans and I could see that she was especially drawn to all the kids that came to see her.

Mom and Giada Collage
When my Mom got up there to have her books signed(as in plural, make sure you keep reading to the very end of the post), she told Giada how much she enjoys not only her fabulous recipes, but how she lets us into her life by sharing all of her family stories and even includes her family members in so many of her episodes.

My Mom's favorite is Aunt Raffy and she told Giada that when she cooks with Aunt Raffy, it reminds her of our family. Giada giggled and said that every family has an "Aunt Raffy". For those that don't know Aunt Raffy, she is a scream and has a fun way of challenging Giada while she is in the kitchen. Telling her "that is not the way I do it Giada". It is really funny to see them sort of bicker in the kitchen...... just like our family can do from time to time!

Even though we could have spent hours talking with her, we only had a minute before we were whisked away so they could keep the line moving. There were tons of people waiting to make their way up the steps to meet her. This was the view of the store as we made our way down the steps. Unfortunately, these people had a very long night of standing and waiting....... but I am sure it was worth every minute.

Crowd Control Floor Level BLOG
My Mom and I happily "skipped" out of the store after meeting her and then went out to grab a cocktail and bite to eat. It was such a fun thing for us to do together, and even though I did not get any photos of myself with Giada, at least I got a few of my Mom for the old memory book!!!

So, if you are a big time Giada fan, you have to pick up her new book called "Weeknights with Giada". Being that my time is so limited during the week and I don't have a whole lot of time to spend in the kitchen, I am really anxious to dig into these recipes and give them a try.

"I definitely don't have the time anymore to cook for hours every day- not if I want to spend time at the table with Todd and jade. But I still love food and cooking and want to eat a nice dinner! So I've really shaken up my weeknight repertoire to include only dishes that I can pull together after a full day. This is what weeknights look like in my house. I hope these recipes inspire you and your family to gather around the table(or picnic blanket) for some fantastic dinners - and. most important, a whole lof of fun." ~Giada De Laurentiis~

We are going to make this post a little more exciting!
Are you ready?


Again, thanks to my ever so thoughtful and supportive Mom, she thought it would be fun to include you all in our big night with Giada and she grabbed an extra book that has been autographed for one of you to win!!! Next week is my 4 year "blogiversary" and I always do a giveaway in conjunction with it, so this year will be no different, it is just coming a week early!

If you want a chance to win a signed copy of her newest cookbook, "Weeknights With Giada", just leave me a comment and tell me why you could use the cookbook or what keeps you coming back to "The Long Road to China". After four years of blogging, I wonder at times how much longer I can keep it up and continue to share our happenings and things that are interesting enough to keep you all tuned in. As long as you all are here still reading, I will keep writing and sharing our life with you!

You have until 11pm Eastern Time on Monday, April 2nd to enter to win the book.
The lucky winner will be announced next week.

TGIF my friends!!! Enjoy your weekend.
{I had intended to post the rest of my bluebell photos today, but decided to postpone them until next week, so check back Sunday or Monday}



80 comments:

Our Family said...

love your photography!

Number 6 and no more counting! said...

of course the photography but also the upbeat mood that your BLOG creates!

Sounds like a perfect Mother/Daughter outing.

lea
xo

Carole said...

Lisa,

I have discovered your blog through the Chenzhou forum. We have something in common....we both have a spicy girl who lights up the household. Your stories are inspiring and they often make me realize that "we're not alone"! I hope you continue to write stories on the blog and post the incredible photos. You have an amazing heart....and so does your mom I see!!!

Ms. Pollywog said...

I was in the China adoption program when I discovered your blog. As the LONG road kept getting LONGER and LONGER, we took a detour. However, I fell in love with your photography, being photographer myself. Your children are breathtaking and i LOVED following your trip to China and back and watching your girls blossom. Your last post about Questions touched me to the core. I am not quite ready to blog about it yet, but I have a very special reason why this cookbook is going to come in really handy!

Briana's Mom said...

You know I am one of your very biggest fans!!! :D I have read your blog from the beginning and I will never stop. XO

Anonymous said...

Your fabulous photography draws me in everytime, but your sweet and always upbeat writings about your children make my day!

So happy you got to meet Giada! I am going to have to pick up her book, it sounds like one I would love!!

Happy Weekend!!
Leah

Alice said...

Your spirit, your heart, and your love for all keeps me coming back! I know you're an amazing Mom, but such an understanding compassionate person. Your family is absolutely a delight and they always bring a smile to my day!

Anonymous said...

Dear Lisa,
I have read your blog for years, but never comment before. Your life ' s stories, your pictures, your words, your kids, your perservance to live thru cancer, your big heart for the orphans inspire me and countless others to be a better mother/person everyday.
Your Mom is beautiful and generous, no surprise as I can see the reflection on you!
Have a great weekend!
Holly nguyen

sam said...

I love reading your blog and all the adventeres you take your family one. And of course all the wonderful pictures!

Jen said...

Same as you, we don't have much time in the weeknights so I'm always looking for something FAST but good. And I honestly can't remember exactly when I started reading your blog but I love the photos and stories.

Diane said...

Like mother, like daughter, both have hearts of gold. You are an inspiration to all of us! You make a difference, I can't imagine life without seeing you and your beautiful familly every week. We love you! Have a wonderful weekend!
God Bless,
Diane

Patty said...

The cookbook sounds AMAZING!!! I have followed your blog from the beginning. There is something about your life, your photography, your honesty, your children that draws me in. Thank you so much for sharing.

Mimi said...

Lisa, I love your photos and your writing and your recipes! Is that enough?
I got a fright when I read "I wonder at times how much longer"... as I know it's very hard to get time to blog (mine is sadly neglected!), so was relieved when I read this "As long as you all are here still reading, I will keep writing and sharing our life with you!"

GGHadden said...

Lisa, how great was that!!! I would love to meet her....and she manages her family AND a TV show AND now a book, I'm lacking in the focus department obviously :)

I could definately use that cookbook for our weeknights around here.....dinners have become whatever can go on the grill.

Hugs!

Tiffany said...

What a fun time to spend with your Mom! Hope you had a great dinner.

Tiffany

tiarastantrums said...

now how much fun was that?!

Shelly and Family said...

OMW!!! Isn't she great! So happy you got to meet her!

My mom and I were able to get our hands on some hot tickets here this past Nov to have brunch with her and an addt'l 40 people - we were two of them! It was so much fun and something I'll never forgot (and either will my mom since she has been "talking or emailing with her back & forth about some of our family's Italian recipes)!

I know it is a day you'll never forget and what better way to spend it tha with you mom!

Hannah said...

I'd love to meet Giada!

I've been following along since you were in China adopting Reagan. I don't remember how I found your blog, although I'm sure it was through another blog I read.

Your kids are adorable and I love your photography!
~Hannah

3 Peanuts said...

I love Giada for the same reasons I love you...she has a big beautiful heart, she is down to earth and she seems REAL! That is what I love about you and your blog too, Lisa. Also, you are both very talented in the kitchen. And of course, your photos are the best in blog land! I LOVE to cook for my family. It is how one of my love languages for them. Would love a signed copy!!!! It would be so special.

Kim

Gina Kleinworth said...

That is SO EXCITING!!! I love her & I think my hubs may have a little crush on her too. I would love this book because her recipes are always "real food". Just good, healthy things that my family should be eating. I am terrible when it comes to meals- treats are something entirely different. But I would love to be able to make something great for everyone & not always depend on my husband to cook for us.

Catherine said...

What a fun night for you and your mom to share together!

Oh baby, that's a recipe book I need to find! By the time my little love and I get home there isn't much time to cook that will still allow us time together before I put her to bed. I love that Giada has created this book with busy families in mind!

Your blog is a treat to read my friend and I'm always happy when you 'light up' in Google Reader with a new post. You are an inspiration in so many ways and I am blessed to know you as you have taught me so much about photography and also about being a Mom!

Have a great weekend Lisa!

my3 kids said...

I love watching Giada and would love a chance to win her cookbook! I really enjoy reading your blog because we both have an older son and 2 sweet daughters. I love your photography and you inspire me to learn more about my camera. You have such a sweet family xoxo
Janice

Andi said...

I love your blog! Your stories and photos inspired me to start my own blog. Your photos give me ideas, and I enjoyed taking your photography class (even tho my photos are far from perfect..still trying)

Giada is my favorite chef to watch too, and am envious that you got to meet her LOL. Being a single Mom who is working and going to school full time - it sounds like Giada's new cookbook might be the perfect answer to my weeknight meals.

Have a great weekend!

Mindi said...

I LOVE that you got to meet her!! how exciting!!! I love watching her show and think she has the most amazing sit downs with her friends on the show lol. Would love to win her book for some new recipes. One can never have enough Italian food!! I keep coming back to your blog because I love the stories you share of your family and your pictures. As a new photographer I look for inspiration everywhere and you are certainly a go to. Thanks for your inspiration! Happy 4 year blogiversary!

Ani said...

What an wonderful giveaway! We love Giada at our house - and although I'm not a big cook, I've tried a couple of her easier recipes and they are always winners!
I started following your blog right before Reagan's referral and I always enjoy checking in to see your great pics!

Amy H said...

I'd love to win this, because the only cookbook I own is a dessert cookbook, and I'd love to learn to make meals. I keep coming back to your blog because I love the pics of your girls!

Marla said...

She is so freaking cute!! What a fun night for you and your mom.

You know what keeps me coming back girl, lol, and you know I've never met a Giada recipe that I didn't like, so I'm sure I'd love that cookbook.

Happy Happy Friday!!!

Lilly said...

juggling a full time job, kids and husband is no small task and keeping things real and fun it's what's all about. I enjoy reading about your family with the same common link: adoption... and how we can all make it better by working and linking us all together to learn, grow and face this crazy world, but worth tons each and every moment

Katy said...

I love reading your blog! Your pictures are amazing and your heart for the orphan is inspiring. I could use this cookbook because I'm about to marry my best friend and I don't want to scare him away with my lack of cooking experience!

Unknown said...

What a memorable day. We don't watch TV in our home, so I've never heard of Giada. From photos and story her book sounds like a great tool for making weeknight meals more pleasant overall.

Sis said...

Hi Lisa, Loved your pictures as always, Glad you got to meet Giada!

My mom and I are going to Italy in August/Sept. A lifelong dream. I really really really want to have some ideas, info etc on taking better pictures before we go!
Are you offering your beginning class anytime before that that we could be apart of?

Sis

http://adoption-thecrookedroad.blogspot.com

Tera said...

I started following because of your journey to China but I keep coming back because I love reading faith-based blogs about real moms doing fun stuff with their kids...especially multi-cultural families! And of course all of your gorgeous pictures is an added bonus!!
We should be leaving on our own journey to China in just a few weeks! Come on TA!!

RC said...

What keeps me coming back is your beautiful photography and gorgeous kids! I haven't adopted but I'm drawn to your adoption stories of your girls. :)

Unknown said...

I love these photos! You have to keep blogging..we all love it! You inspire me all the time! Thank you for the great class last night!

Anonymous said...

I have a DSLR that I can barely use..I use your photo's as insperation for taking photos from different angles to get a certain look. The way you document a moment in time..is something I dont do often with my kids. I fail to document those little things I may soon forget. Thank you for sharing. Megan97364(@)hotmail(dot)come

Kelly And Allison said...

Love your photography and your passion for life.

Jessica said...

I love your photography and your passion for all things family!

Susan said...

I really need some easy go to recipes for the weeknights as I feel as if I’m in a slump as far as cooking goes, and LOVE Giada’s creative recipes and stories it would be just the thing to get me out of my meat and potatoes rut.

As far as visiting your blog, I love your pictures and the story of how Reagan came to your family. (There was a point in my life that I really thought I might be able to adopt from China as well.) I continue to visit as it’s been such fun to see your beautiful family grow.

Maggie said...

I too am a huge Giada fan! I just think she is so fun and seems like she has a very healthy outlook on food and eating which sometimes is hard to find in this day and age. I love to cook everynight b/c I think it is a much healthier way to feed my little girl.

I have become a huge fan of your blog too! I read a quote right after I became a mom that says "There is no way to be a perfect mother, but there are a million ways to be a GOOD one." And I really try to remember that each day. I think your blog shows that with each post. Thanks for writing!

Sharon said...

How exciting meeting Giada! I would love to win a cook book simply because I have 3 kids of my own and sometimes they are very picky. I am always looking for new recipes to tempt them with.

I also love reading about your kids and your photography is quite beautiful. So please don't ever stop!

Cindy said...

How fun!
Love your photography and zest for life!

likeschocolate said...

Can I say jealous! However, Giada better watch out because Lisa makes a mean marinara sauce. That I think is better than Giada's. We just made it the other day sans meatballs and ate it over pasta. So so yummy. Have a great weekend Lisa!

Smileyhappychan said...

I found your blog from someone linking up with Black and White Wednesdays. I fell in love with your photography and have really enjoyed a peek into your family!

bella said...

I would love to own that cookbook. I love to cook for my husband six nights a week. As empty nesters I feel it is very important to cook healthy dinners with fresh ingredients and I know Giada is the same way. I love your blog as I have a heart for children and enjoy hearing about yours. I was a teacher for 10 years and have worked at a Christian school for 20 years. We have raised 3 daughters, our first by adoption. I love all your recipes, photos, and enjoy reading about your family activities and such. You have a beautiful soul and are an amazing mother. My email is luv2read90045@yahoo.com

Denise said...

I would love a cookbook! Thanks for the chance to win. As always I am drawn to your way with words, your heart for your family and most always for the beautiful way you showcase it all with your amazing photos! Love you girl:)

Serendipityissweet said...

How exciting! I love Giada. Sounds like such a memorable mother-daughter outing :)

Robin said...

oh I wish I could have tagged along with you and your mom! You know I love reading your blog and I also love to cook but it is hard on busy nights this looks like a great cook book to have on hand!


Blessings and have a great weekend!
Robin

Anonymous said...

That is so awesome!!

ellieshine said...

What a fun time- and so nice you got to share it with your mom!

I love your gorgeous photography and the way you always tell the story with both your words and photos! (plus you have really cute kids ;)

xo ellie

HOPEdriven said...

I keep coming back because your photos are beautiful, just like your kids. Keep doin what your doin!!

Elizabeth said...

I just discovered this blog, and I'm excited to find it! We are paperwork chasing for our first adoption, and blogs like this are just what the doctor ordered for uplifting breaks. Giada is awesome!

Jboo said...

Love Giada!! How cool that you got to meet her!! Yay for your Mom!!!

Love your blog, your photos, your cute kiddos and your sweetness!!

Have a good weekend!

xoxo
janet

Hunan Mommy said...

My husband is looking over my shoulder reading which is rare on blogs! Another G. fan! Sounds like a fun evening. You can't stop blogging! Your photography inspires me to take so many pictures of my spicy girl!

Cara - Another Chenzhou mommy

Krista said...

I would love the cookbook... for the very reason I just told you. LOL! I'm a zombie running on the hamster wheel during the week. I've never been interested in cooking and feel like I go much too frequently to the easy microwaveable stuff for Mia. I need to learn how to cook better meals for her. And anything that gives me quick, easy ideas would be GREAT!

And I keep coming back because I love your beautiful photos. But more importantly ...I feel like I know you even though we've never actually met and I'm emotionally invested in your family. I love hearing stories about them and watching the kids grow up. :)

Christa said...

I love your photos. . . reminds me to document my own kids and their moments.

And I have four of these kids (and a full time and 2 part time jobs) so anything that gives me ideas for simplified, tasty dinners sounds like something I need!

Jen said...

I too have a 2 year old adopted from China and have enjoyed reading your about your experiences from a neighboring state just south ( : Thanks for sharing!

mlafayette said...

I have a 13 month little girl and love hearing about your girls and their adoption.

Michelle

Natalie said...

I love reading your blog because your children are beautiful as are you, your photography is extra -ordinary, and you have a great way of writing.

As a bio Mom of 5 and adoptive Mom of 3, I love to read about adoptions. Your stories have been so inspiring to many.

Love Giada.

Anonymous said...

Oh, I love Giada!!!! And I would love that cookbook!!!
I love your blog for many reason: your beautiful children, your adoption journey (my daughter is from China as well)your photograpy and your wonderful recipes!!!!
Monday is my birthday and what a wonderful gift it would be if i won!!!
Keeping my fingers crossed!
Thank you -
Sharon B.

Kathy H said...

Having known you for sooooo long, I always remember how nice, how positive and how confident you were in school. I read your blogs and smile because you make it look so easy. You are truly inspiring. Through your blogs I've learned you are a fighter, and a winner, and you don't take that for granted. You really shine girl! Wish we were closer then and/or closer now, but just know that I admire your strength and your courage and your perseverance, and I love how you share that with others here. It's uplifting :)
I don't really need the cookbook, (though I certainly wouldn't mind it, lol) I just thought it was a great opportunity to write. Have a fabulous weekend!

Shari said...

Lisa after four years I feel like I know your family, and like you're a friend I could pick up the phone and talk to for hours...it seems impossible that when we first "met" Sarah was just a little bit and now she's off to Kindergarten...
As for Giada I have to admit that I have never heard of her-but that doesn't surprise me since it has to do with cooking, something I tend to avoid:)
Thanks for sharing a bit of your family with us!

Mira Crisp said...

How sweet is your mom to think of your readers? :) Thank you Mom and Lisa!

paige said...

first of all, is your mom the sweetest or what?
we are huge giada fans. our nickname for madison is giada as she loves to be in the kitchen.

i have been terrible about frequenting blogs since i launched the businesses ( i feel like i'm talking about children) a few months ago.

i first was drawn to your spirit & resolve when i visited your blog for the first time and found that you are a cancer survivor. at that time i was having a cone biopsy and scared to death. i have watched your family grow, your skills as a photographer grow & your heart to encourage others, no matter where they are in life has always been what keeps me coming back....(sadly just not as frequent of a commenter)

love that you shared about your day...
if i won, i'd give the book to my own personal giada
xox

Waiting for Emily said...

LOVE LOVE your blog!! Although I never comment and I am not a "follower" it is one of my absolute favorites. The pictures, the stories, your precious children and the music is always perfect. Please never stop blogging!!

Gail said...

I first found your blog about 3 and a half years ago, Lisa. I loved(and still do obviously) your 'joie de vivre' or great joy for life. You have such a love for cooking, your family and photography and it's contagious in only a good way!!

Now for the cookbook, would love to win it because I love Giada and any recipe she creates!

And please keep blogging, can't imagine not hearing about your beautiful family and seeing your photography!

xoxo

Sean and Mic said...

Let me begin to count the ways I heart you and your blog...
- awesome mom
- photographer and teacher
- love family
- fabulous recipes
- love of China
- funny, generous and beautiful
Need I go on???

Glad you got to meet her! And oh how I wish we had a Wegman's on the West coast. I always go to one outside of Wash, DC when we are there.

-Michelle 2udubgrads@comcast.net

Unknown said...

I love reading your blog. Your photographs are always awesome and I especially love the photographs of your kiddos. I started following along when you were in China!

So glad you and your mom got to meet her and get your books signed. Awesome photos of the event. Aren't you happy you guys were near the front of the line! That made the event extra sweet! Blessings to you and yours...keep on blogging!

Laurie said...

Lisa, there are so many reasons I keep reading...
Here are just a few: I love your photography & writing style. I love how you live every day to the fullest. I love watching your 3 children grow up.

I could use that cookbook for the same reasons Giada wrote it!

Language Arts Lady said...

I would love a new cookbook... I need it! :) I keep coming back because I love seeing your gorgeous photos and your gorgeous children.

devona said...

I keep coming back to your blog to see your beautiful photos, beautiful children and i just love the journey that got you your precious Reagan. I also am a huge fan of Giada!

Kim said...

Of course I am reading and following. I have fallen in love with your kids and our connection to (domestic) adoption and China. And your photography ... oh I can only dream of so beautifully capturing memories.

As far as the cookbook ... w/ five kids, our crazy after school schedules have caused me to cut some major corners on weeknight meals. The cookbook would be a great gift to my family who would love for Mom to have some new recipes and new motivation in mealtime planning!

Love & Blessings,
Kim

Bebe said...

I work full-time plus & since it is just Emma & I, any meal will be one I make. She loves pasta! I found you through blogs of other adoptive families, and I stay for the photography and watching the girls interact...just in case Em & become Em & I plus one more...

melinda lee said...

I actually remember coming a long time ago (not really, maybe about a year ago), but then I lost your blog. When you did the Fill Their Stocks giveaway with Stefanie, I checked your blog daily and have gotten into the habit of it! (It is now on my list of daily blogs to read).

The pictures definitely keep me coming back. Yours are sooo pretty! And your writing style! I definitely love that (:

Tammie T. said...

Lisa, I absolutely LOVE your blog and amazing photography. I wish Katie and I could hop on a plane and you could photograph her as she loves to have her picture taken. I enjoy your stories and seeing your beautiful children grow up. I would miss your blog so much as it is part of my daily routine to check in. I even love to see your posts a second and third time!
As for the cookbook, I do cook every night and many times it is a quick easy meal as the kids are at those very busy years! Sharie and Amelia eat here frequently so you would actually be sharing it with two of your blog followers! HA! :) I do plan to buy it if I don't win. It sounds great!

Unknown said...

I love the pictures of your sweet family and and amazing faith!

Amy Maze said...

Would love to win the signed cookbook! Sounds like a fun girls night out:) I found your blog through your adoption journey to Reagan. I am an China adoptive mom as well. Your posts about your family and amazing photography keep me coming back!

Brandi said...

Sounds like you both had a great day!

I read your blog for many reasons. The photography is amazing and I've learned so much just by looking. Your children are beautiful and I love hearing what they're up to next. There's just something about the mood of your blog...you have such a joy for life & it projects through your writing.

As for the cookbook, I'd love a chance to win & see what wonderful recipes Giada has included for quick weeknight dinners!

Heather{Our Life In a Click} said...

I would love to win the book and get some ideas for easier week night meals! I tune into your blog to see you gorgeous photos!

wendy said...

Hi,
I am a single mom to a 5 year old adopted from vietnam. what keeps me coming back are your beautiful kids, beautiful pictures, and frankly I love to see all the cute clothes the girls wear....not that your son doesn't wear nice clothes, but I have a girl!!

I have 2 jobs and a tough time enticing my little one to eat anything but the staples, pasta, grilled cheese, etc. would love to try something new and i love cookbooks. especially ones with quick, easy recipes.
thanks for sharing your world

Bean said...

Hi! I would love a copy of this cookbook because I have a full time job, a three year old and a long commute! I would love the opportunity to spend more precious time with my family each night instead of being in the kitchen making dinner! But sitting around the dinner table each night with my family is very important to me, so this would be the perfect solution!

I started reading your blog when I came across it one day and ended up spending that whole day reading your archives back to before you went to China to get Reagan! It was such a good read! So inspiring to see someone following their dreams, chasing them with everything they have. I was fascinated with your experience in China. After reading those posts and then seeing you acheive your dream of the family you always wished for, I was so happy for you, I was hooked on your blog! I come back every week to see how your beautiful family grows and changes, it is a wonderful thing. And your pictures are beautiful!

One of my favorite posts lately was when Sarah was caught jumping on her bed! It was so cute, so sweet, she was having so much fun! I think I laughed out loud, even though I was at work at the time! All three of your children seem so sweet and so kind to each other. I have an almost three year old daughter so I appreciate the beauty of all of these children, they are so close to God in their own, quiet ways.

Thanks for letting us share in your world!

Jessica