Oh Well No Matter

A Very Merry Christmas

2011-12-23T18:00:00.001-08:00

This Christmas Season has come upon us so fast. It took a while for me to get into the spirit of it all. It's been a little difficult this year, since I won't get to share it with all four of our children and grandchildren, but, I managed to keep pushing myself and do a little everyday. After a week or two, it hit me. I even decorated my curtain rod, in my kitchen.

I was all set to hit the stores and fight the crowds, today, and look for a table runner. To my delight, I received this in the mail today. Cecelia, a very special friend, miss her so much, made this for me. Perfect timing and perfect on my table.
Thank you SO much, Cecelia, for always thinking of me.

Crafty Christmas Fun

2011-12-21T05:07:00.000-08:00

Up a little to early this morning but thought I would make use of the extra time before I head off to work.
Feeling somewhat festive this season so I decided to take a break from our remodeling and have some crafty fun. Found this pattern on Pinterest, love the pleat in the center.

Thought this would add a nice accent to dress up an outfit. I used Patons Silk Sequence. I bought two scenes, since each scene is 2 ply, I doubled the yarn. Quick and easy, my kind of craft.
Makes a nice Christmas gift too.

How to make paper look old by aging it with tea | mevsthehouse.com

2011-12-01T13:58:00.000-08:00

How to make paper look old by aging it with tea | mevsthehouse.com

Fall Table Centerpiece

2011-11-11T19:32:00.000-08:00

Found another clever and inexpensive centerpiece for my table. I had this hurricane vase for quite sometime. Usually just put it out during the Christmas season. Well, thanks to Pinterest, I discovered another use for it.
Just used some dried kidney beans, lentils and popcorn. How easy is that!

Pinterest Perfect

2011-09-30T19:47:00.000-07:00

Spotted this cute idea on Pinterest. Quick and easy Fall table decor.

All I did was purchase 5 small pumpkins, borrowed some staples from my husbands staple gun, salvaged 3 hurricane lamps from around my house, I collect hurricane lamps, braced each lamp with the staples, just push them in the pumpkin. Add any scented, or unscented, votive and VoLaah!

Crossing Fingers

2011-09-24T20:37:00.000-07:00

We have been working on our walls for a good month now. It all started back in July when I decided to apply wainscot, in my kitchen, as a backsplash. After that project was finished, the walls really needed a new coat of paint, so we did that. My hallway and kitchen area are open, so now I had to do something with the hallway.

I found this idea while searching the internet.

It looks easy enough. So, tomorrow I begin. If all turns out like I plan, I will post the final results with easy to follow instructions on how to obtain this look.
I have been filling and sanding "very" rough textured walls for about 4 weeks to get the look I hope to obtain. Not sure what I am going to do if it doesn't turn out???

Fall Fun

2011-09-21T17:59:00.000-07:00

It seems more people are getting ready for Fall weather. I love the Fall season. Always makes me feel cozy and fresh. Although, it is still in the 90's here, 99 today. I can still get ready.

Saw this idea on the net. Myhomeideas.com Cinnamon wreath. It looks so country and I am sure the aroma will be pleasant.
I enjoy finding new and unique ideas to make. This will look adorable hanging in any window. Inside of coarse.

All you need is a 12" flat wood wreath, or any size you like, 6" length cinnamon sticks, glue gun, any kind of ribbon you like, I'm thinking of using burlap fabric.
Glue the cinnamon sticks on both sides of wreath. All done!

I can't decide which season I love the most, Fall or Spring. But, at the moment, Fall seems to be on top.

Canning Day

2011-09-11T20:29:00.000-07:00

We so enjoy fresh garden tomatoes. I am so thankful my husband has such a green thumb when it comes to the garden.

Also, I am making homemade spaghetti sauce from these beautiful gems. I tend to like my spaghetti sauce a little on the sweet side, I add just a pinch of brown sugar. The tomatoes, this year, are so full of flavor, I really haven't needed to add any sugar. We add very little salt, just a teaspoon to each qt.

We are discovering that adding a qt. of tomatoes to several different recipes, really makes the food more savory.

"Farmhouse" Table Runner

2011-09-09T18:53:00.000-07:00

My daughter in law had made some adorable placemats, for my Christmas present, last year, out of my favorite Waverly fabric. I have been anxious to get them out on the table but really wanted a table runner to go with it. I love the look of table runners.

Today, I decided I would try and make one. Drove to Joann's fabric, thank goodness we have one here in town. Found my material and headed home. Didn't take long to put this together.
I love anything that looks "farmhouse" style. I noticed, after searching the internet, most runners are squared off, not the typical diamond shape. I am really satisfied with the results.

I actually applied iron on interfacing. Very quick and easy.

Another facelift with Wainscot

2011-08-12T14:46:00.001-07:00

Have been wanting some sort of backsplash for my outdated kitchen. I happen to love the look of farmhouses.
My husband found some wainscot along side of the freeway a few years ago. I had planned on putting it in our bathroom, when we remodeled. I changed my mind. Well, I have been holding on to it for a while. While looking at kitchen remodels, I spotted several with a wainscot backsplash.....the imagination started running.
We have been in the middle of replacing our bedroom window, we added a new door that steps out onto the patio.
When I told my husband what I wanted to do with the wainscot, his reply was...."don't you think we already have a big project".
Well, i had helped him replace the window, the rest of the work was out of my hands. There is just some things a women can't do...at least this woman.
I told him..."not to worry, this is my project, just show me how to use the chop saw". He rolled his eyes, like he usually does, but he agreed to show me....

It really wasn't that hard, I measured and cut, I even managed to add the trim. Quite impressed with myself. Even my husband is impressed.

As you can see, we were in great need of something behind the stove.
I plan on doing the other side wall, behind the sink.
I am going to give my whole kitchen a complete facelift, new color of paint and hopefully new wood floors.

Face Lift

2011-07-23T21:48:00.001-07:00

We ordered this door to replace our window in our bedroom. It arrived yesterday. We managed to get it home in one piece. Tomorrow we start demolition. There is so much to be done to our bedroom. It has the same paint from 10 years ago. The bedroom really is need of a facelift. I would post a "before" picture, but your going to just have to take my word, it is really a sad looking situation.
I have plenty of new ideas for it. Let's just pray it all turns out as planned.

Crocheted Dress I made for my grand daughter.

2011-05-04T07:42:00.000-07:00

My grand daughter is so cute, you ask her to pose and she knows exactly what to do. Pretty smart for a 4 year old.

Beaded Spring Scarf

2011-04-12T15:40:00.001-07:00

Crochet Pinafore

2011-04-09T17:24:00.000-07:00

Made this adorable Pinafore. I added buttons that look like pansies. It was very easy to make. Working on another one, it will be dark gray. I plan on making a dress to go underneath the pinafore. This may take some time to do.
I find crocheting is very relaxing, I took the dress I made on our trip up to Washington, it really made the trip more bearable and time flew.

Crocheted Hat and Booties.

2011-04-05T21:46:00.001-07:00

My sister and I have decided to put some of our talent to work. We started a little business called "Two Sisters In Stitches." We have a section at a store in Oakdale, Creative Minds. We both find crocheting very relaxing. Also, I like to quilt and just make cute things like aprons, etc.

I tried to follow the pattern for this hat but the finished product did not turn out the way it was suppose to, so, I made up my own pattern. It really is adorable.

This is such a cute set, crocheted hat and booties with silk flowers.

Gluten Steak.

2011-04-01T22:14:00.000-07:00

First time I have made anything gluten. Always love it when a new recipe is good.

CHIP 2011 Graduation

2011-03-31T22:29:00.001-07:00

Fondant Carrots

2011-03-31T14:29:00.000-07:00

Made these to decorate a vegan carrot cake.

Update

2011-03-29T15:55:00.000-07:00

It's been a while since I have posted or even looked at my blog. Now that we have Facebook, I find myself doing that more. So, just in case anyone is wondering what I have been up to, well, I am really into vegan cooking. Have discovered a few delicious recipes, Burgers etc. Will post some pics next time I make some, oh, and the recipe. Just for those who are looking for a healthier lifestyle.
Spending my spare time crocheting. In the process of making a dress for my grand daughter. It is taking longer than I had anticipated but I am sure the final results will be to my satisfaction.
Hope all my friends are doing well. Will be checking back soon to see if anyone ever checks the blogs out anymore.

Tofu Pecan Meatballs

2010-10-09T13:00:00.001-07:00

I put a few on perfect brown rice and added some country (cashew) gravy.
Tofu Pecan Meatballs
Combine in a bowl
1 one box of Mori-Nu firm tofu
2 T Braggs Liquid Aminos
3/4 cup chopped pecans
1/2 t salt
1/2 t dried garlic
2 T dried onion
1 T dried parsley
1 T nutritional yeast flakes
1/4 t basil
1/4 t thyme
1/4 t sage
1/4 t Italian Seasoning
1 1/2 cup whole wheat bread crumbs
1 cup perfect brown rice.
Form into balls and cook in a non stick skillet. I added about 1 T olive oil. Makes about 22 good size meatballs. I put them in a warm oven, on a cookie sheet, while cooking the rest of our meal.
Note: Perfect brown rice is 1 cup brown rice browned in a skillet. Boil 2 1/2 cups water and pour over browned rice, cover and bake for 45 minutes at 350 degrees. It really turns out nice a fluffy.
The meatballs were adapted from "Tasty Vegan Delights".

Happy Mother's Day To Me.

2010-05-06T10:13:00.000-07:00

Much to my surprise, this morning, I received this delicious fresh fruit arrangement from Corey.
When the two men brought it in, all three of us, Nancy, Melissa and I were staring at it thinking they had the wrong address. We never get stuff like this here. Our office faces the parking lot so we can see when someone is getting flowers, food etc. It is never for us. So, when they came in, Melissa said, oh you must have the wrong place. One of the guys said, Catherine...I yelled ....hey, that's me. Oh, I was so excited. I couldn't figure out which one of my children would have sent this, knowing all four of them know I love to eat.

I just love how they arranged the different fruit. Now,I want to see if I can make one.

I think Martha ( Corey's girlfriend) had some influence with sending these, she has made me chocolate covered strawberries before, they were delicious, I ate most of them too. The box is full of chocolate covered bananas.

I'm pretty sure these are not going to last long.

Hard Days Work

2010-04-18T18:23:00.001-07:00

Tom decided he wanted to run a water line into our back alley where we have a variety of fruit trees planted. He doesn't like taking the hose back there because he is always knocking over a plant in our garden as he stretches it across the area. So, I agreed to help, how hard could this be? I thought he said to dig a trench 2", so I did, he meant 2', big difference. Well, I hung in there and kept digging, with his help of course. We got it done.

After about 10 minutes of digging, I had to take a break. I sat for a few minutes, in an old motel chair, and couldn't help but appreciate the beauty in the variety of flowers and plants planted in a small area of our yard. I love this time of year.

Fresh Garden Veggies

2010-04-10T14:45:00.000-07:00

Tom and I are very fortunate to be able to have our own garden. Because of his green thumb, we were able to pick some fresh beets and peas. Also, we picked some snow peas but will use those when I make my Hawaiian Stir-Fry.

The beets are such a deep red and the leaves, well I couldn't just throw them away.

Here is lunch. Fresh beets, cooked beet greans and Fetuccini Alfredo,

completely vegan.

Tom said, after eating lunch, we are going to be so healthy we will be doing back flips at age 80....well, he might but I am sure I won't.

The Lemonade Connection

2010-04-08T12:26:00.001-07:00

Some of you will recognize Jennifer. She is a long time friend of our family, much loved and missed. She has started this web site after learning some tricks of the trade...coupons and savings. You can read her story by visiting her site.
Be sure to check it out and get started saving.

Thanks Jen....your the greatest!

Simply Yummmm

2010-04-07T17:37:00.000-07:00

Not sure if it's age or what, but I seem to really enjoy little things in life, like the buds on this blueberry bush Tom just bought to go in our garden.
Raspberries are my favorite berry but Blueberries run a close 2nd.
We are going to have a great garden this summer, organic too.

I really enjoy the fresh lettuce, peas, cauliflower and snow peas we have been able to reap from Tom's gardening effort. Simply Yum!

Easter Fun

2010-04-04T21:33:00.000-07:00

Keiran hunting for some eggs and hotwheels. The plastic eggs were to small to put the hotwheels in so I hid the cars with the eggs. He didn't mind, I think he liked finding the hotwheels more than the eggs.

It started to get a little cold so we headed into the house to color some real eggs.
Alana gets the prize for the best colored egg.

What do you do with a bunch of empty plastic eggs? I can always entertain myself.

See, Mom's really do have an extra set of eyes.

Sean, Alana and Keiran having some fun.

Rice Krispy Treats

2010-03-30T19:51:00.000-07:00

Staying vegan has been fun and tasty. I wanted to find some treats we could have, now and then, and decided to make my own vegan snack. I used about 1/2 cup of honey, not quite 1/2 cup maple syrup and some peanut butter, we blended ourselves at Winco, little shy of a full cup and a few tsp. of Vanilla. I cooked the honey, syrup and peanut butter til the PB was dissolved. Poured 4 cups of Rice Krispy's into the syrup and mixed. Let it cool a little before I poured the chocolate chips (Ghiradelli chips) into the mixture.
Sprayed the dish with a little olive oil spray and poured the mixture into the pan.

After tasting the treats, I wish I had added more peanut butter.
These will do the trick.

My New Herb Garden

2010-03-28T16:45:00.001-07:00

Thought since we are eating a lot healthier and most of the recipes require herbs, I decided to grow my own.

I planted Sweet Basil, Parsley, Oregano, Sage and Thyme. Just need to find some Rosemary.

While looking at the different herbs, I found some Stevia. Thought I would try my luck and this, so I bought one and planted it in an old bucket. All I need to do is pick the stems, dry them a few days and crush the leaves. Should be nice and sweet.

Old But New.

2010-03-23T12:12:00.001-07:00

We are down in Loma Linda helping Ryan and Shelly move into a different house. Rent is somewhat cheaper, since they are both in school, one more year for Ryan, two for Shelly, they need to save as much money as they can.
Shelly found this adorable two bedroom home for $350 less a month. They are on break, so Tom and I decided to drive down and lend a hand, plus I get to go to Disneyland too.
The house is cozy and has a lot of character.

Notice the lock above the knob. I remember, the house I grew up in, they all had doors just like this.

I think my favorite thing about the house are the doors. They all are original from when the house was built, my guess in the 1930 or 40's. I love the glass knobs.

Truly, if old houses could talk!

Cute As A Bug....Ladybug

2010-03-19T21:43:00.001-07:00

Years ago I decorated Cakes, Wedding, Birthday, Graduation...all occasions. It's been at least 15 years or more since I attempted any cake. Well, a very special young lady, whom I've known since she was a little girl, has a daughter of her own now and she is turning 3. When she found out I decorated cakes she asked me if I would be willing to help, I said "sure" hoping I would remember how.
She had to have 3 layers since her daughter was turning 3 and she wanted a bug theme...she found a picture of a ladybug cake on the internet and showed me, I told her "if that's what you want we can do it."
We did make a few changes, thanks to her creativity, and changed the colors to match her plates etc.
So, after decorating for 4 hours, here is the finished project.
It is so cute.

When I got home I noticed my back was killing me, now I remember why I quit decorating cakes.

More Vegan Cooking

2010-02-26T16:58:00.001-08:00

Tom and I are having so much fun with these new vegan recipes. He helps me in the kitchen with them. I am loving it cuz we both enjoy eating and I use to do all the cooking, now, it's team work.
Since I started the CHIP program, almost two weeks ago, neither one of us have had any sugar or sweets.
I have always been hesitant about the vegan diet because I really enjoy chocolate, not a fan of carob, and I thought I would have to give chocolate up. Thank God for my dear good friend Dore', she turned me on to vegan...yes vegan Ghiraelli chocolate chips..the ones in the gold package sold in most grocery stores.
I decided I was going to make us some kind of snack, so I made some yummy oatmeal cookies...they really are tasty. Just what the Dr. ordered..Dr. Murphy that is.

Cheese is another favorite food of mine. How could I give that up. Well, I was given this recipe at one of the CHIP meetings. Bought everything I needed, gave the recipe to my husband... (Tom is home during the day so he makes our dinners and has them ready to eat when I come home for lunch)and wholla...let me just say that the cheese sauce is even better on our fresh broccoli that is growing in our garden.
The more we learn from a medical scientific, with plenty of facts,approach, the more we are leaning to a vegan lifestyle.
In the 10 days I have been on this program, I feel a big difference with energy, clarity of mind and mobility.
This has to be a good thing!

Kids Say the Darndest Things....still.

2010-02-24T22:09:00.001-08:00

My precious grand daughter, who is now 3 years old, really has her thinking cap on all of the time. She was being naughty while her mother was busy on the computer doing some work for their business. Her mommy politely asked her to stop but she wouldn't so she was sentenced to her room for a short time out.
Now, we have all said this at one time or another to our children when they do something wrong, after the wrong doing has been done we say " now are you sorry you did that"? Of course we expect their reply to be "yes".
When my daughter went into the bedroom to relieve Lawren of her sentenced, Lawren replies to her mommy...."mommy are you sorry you put me in time out"?
What can a mother do?

Tropical Cheesecake (Vegan)

2010-02-21T15:26:00.000-08:00

Alright, so, my good friend,Cecelia, who lives clear across the US, has asked me to blog again. So here I go.
I have decided to take charge of my health again, so I have joined a program called CHIP (Coronary Health Improvement Program). Total plant based diet for 30 days. Now after 30 days I don't plan on giving up.
An important part of my thinking with all the change is "what about dessert?" So I have been experimenting with some of the recipes I have found. This is one of them, Tropical Cheesecake, and oh it is yummy!

If any of you are interested in the recipe just let me know, via my blog, and I will email it to you or just post it here.
These 30 days are really going to be quite an adventure.
I have to say that my husband and I have been on this new lifestyle for one week now and I already notice a difference. I'm waking up around 5:30 in the morning, on a weekend, for crying out loud.

Gingerbread Fun

2009-12-07T10:44:00.000-08:00

Here is the first gingerbread house finished out of three. I had bought one for each of my grand kid's and one for my son's girlfriends daughter. After Thanksgiving dinner, I got the kits out and the children started on them, with the help of mom and dad.
My grand daughter is the first to finish and get a picture to me.
I'm waiting for two more pics, one from my grandson and the other from Lillyanna.

Happy Birthday to Me!

2009-11-23T09:33:00.000-08:00

When I got to work this morning, Melissa, my sidekick here at work, had this double fudge chocolate cake sitting on the counter in the kitchen. We did have a piece for breakfast. I know, not the best thing to eat early in the morning, but hey, it's my birthday. Don't you get to do whatever you want on that day????

Meet Coach Murphy, hard at work.

2009-11-20T10:28:00.000-08:00

Holiday Feast

2009-11-16T11:26:00.000-08:00

We had a wonderful time yesterday at church. Susie and I put on a feast, we had a great turnout.
Here is some pics of the tables that we decorated.
We served Dore's vegetarian turkey, we also had mashed potatoes and gravy, dressing, yams (Susie's special recipe), it actually tasted like sweet potatoe pie, delicious, green bean casserole. For dessert I made my delicious pumpkin rolls along with chocolate rolls.
It was a lot of fun.

Can't forget to include our waitresses, Erika, Jessica, Melanie, Alex and Glorianna.
They did a fantastic job.
I am so ready for the holiday's!

Happy Aniversary

2009-10-19T19:42:00.001-07:00

Yes, it's been a while since I blogged. Just thought I would share this cute pic of my youngest son and daughter-in-law. They celebrated their 2nd anniversary yesterday. They vacationed in Monterey, which isn't that far from me, so Tom and I drove down there and spent the day.
Weather was gorgeous and the area is beautiful.
Happy Anniversary you love birds!

Time is Money....on FT

2009-06-13T23:10:00.000-07:00

Just to let some of you know, I am still around but seem to be spending more time on Face Book than blogging. There is a fun game on FB, Farmtown, virtual farming. I have always wanted to live in the country and live on a "little" farm but fate did not allow. So, I enjoy creating and working on a virtual one. Less work and more money, virtual money that is.
I still check on my blogging friends from time to time, so don't think I have abandoned my blog.
Will be back eventuall, that is if I ever get anything good to post.
Love you all!

Tippee Canoe

2009-04-23T22:11:00.000-07:00

This particular quilt pattern is referred to as "Tippee Canoe". It is paper pieced, you pin fabric to paper,sew a seam and cut each piece. It was a class project I was in back in 2003. Half of the women didn't finish theirs, it is very time consuming. Half way through sewing this, I was not liking the design or the quilt, until one of the ladies finished hers, quilted it and brought it to class. It was absolutely gorgeous. I was determined to finish mine. Well, I finished the top but never invested the money in having it quilted. Since I returned to class, I was informed of a lady, that my teacher knows, who does it for a living. She comes to class,picks up the quilt, machine quilts it and delivers. I decided to give her a try and brought this to her.
I hope you are able to see the intricate design, so precise and very elegant.
Tippee Canoe is not my favorite, but I will definitely bring it out to wrap up in during the winter months.

What an accomplishment and such a good feeling to know I did it!!!!

Fun and Easy Pillowcase

2009-04-17T18:56:00.000-07:00

Cecelia, Francie, Natalie...this is for you.
Thought I would share this cute idea with a few of you. I promised Cecelia that I would send her the pattern, I am going to don't worry, but thought since I was making one today, I have to take it with me tomorrow, we are going to visit our grandson and I wanted him to have one. He loves the outdoors and I found this cute material a while back. Anyway, I thought I would just take some pics and post how it is done. If your anything like me, I have to see it, not read it or hear it.
Cecelia, this would be a cute project for your women's group, you could make some adorable ones for a children's home or the shelter. I might add that there is some cute fleece material, would be warm and cozy.
Make them for yourself, or for different holiday's. Kid's love them!
So, lets get started.....
This is what you will need to start:
3/4 yard material for the Main pillowcase 26" X 40"
1/8 yard material for the Contrasting Trim 2" X 40" ( if the store will sell 1/16 yrd. that is better)
1/3 yard material for the Cuff 10" X 40"

Trim off raw edge so all the material is the same width.

Place Cuff fabric right side up an a flat surface.
Place Contrasting trim fabric...be sure to fold the trim in half first and iron.
Place Main Pillowcase fabric right side down on top of Contrasting Trim fabric, matching up the raw cut edges. Pins edges together.

Roll Main Pillow Case fabric up into a tube until all of it fits within the length of the Cuff farbric.

Fold up the bottom edge of the Cuff fabric, over the Contrasting Trim and Main Pillow Case fabric.
Line up all the raw edges and re-pin.
Stitch a 1/2 inch seam along the raw edge.

Turn the Pillowcase right side out by pulling the Main Pillow case out from the inside of the Cuff fabric.

Press the Cuff fabric flat.

Fold pillowcase in half with right sides up, sew a 1/2 inch seam along the side and bottom edge of pillow case.

Okay, now turn the pillowcase inside out and sew another seam along the edge and bottom. The seam will hide the outside seam, this is called a French Seam.

Okay, here you have it, how cute is this!!!!

Also, I managed to make four jars of blackberry jam. Thanks Cecelia, the recipe was easy and delicious.

Geez Louise, it took me longer to post this than make the pillowcase.
I gotta go, I still have to make a cake.

Very Busy Tooth Fairy

2009-04-15T10:30:00.000-07:00

My grandson was so excited yesterday, he called everyone to let us know of his news. Yes, he lost his first tooth. He is just growing up too fast.
When I was there, a few weeks ago, he made sure I felt his lose teeth. Oh yea, he has more, his top front tooth will soon be missing.
I can remember when each of my kids lost their teeth. In fact, I saved them...now that I think of it....seems a little gross.

Life Couldn't Be Better.

2009-04-09T20:12:00.000-07:00

Last week I discovered I have been making a mistake on our quarterly reports to the IRS NOT GOOD and I made a mistake on two of our W2 forms NOT GOOD. After a week of phone calls, I finally was able to get the info I needed to make corrections only to go to work today to find out my computer was on the fritz SERIOUSLY NOT GOOD. It took me 40 minutes to get it going only to discover my monitor went out.
Called our computer guy and he came and rescued me. Nancy bought me a 22" monitor..wowee...it is so big I can't believe it...but, I still need to wear my glasses. Not sure if they make monitors that large???
Anyway, after a hectic week and day of work, I came home and decided to check things out on my blog. I love getting online and checking my special friends blog to see whats new...there hasn't been much activity on any of them, including mine so I thought I would at least share a few favorite pics of my grand kids.
A few weeks ago I got to spend the day with my grandson while his parents attended a memorial for one of the families in the Montana accident.
We went to visit Daffodil Hill. He really didn't want to go because he told me he goes there all the time, and by the look of this pic, well, he looks unhappy but he did have a good time showing me the peacocks, rabbits and different birds.
The flowers were absolutely gorgeous.

Here is a recent "favorite-pic-out-of-the-ones-I-received" from my daughter. My granddaughter helping out as they remodel the laundry room.

Thought I would throw this pic in, its the latest quilt I have been working on. It only took me a few weeks to sew this one together as opposed to five years that it took me to finish the other one, which, I quilted it on the long arm in class and will be putting the binding on for the final touch.

Buzz LightYear

2009-03-25T19:32:00.000-07:00

Yes, I am still the champion of BuzzLightYear, well at least in my family. Corey, Ryan, Shelly and I rode this fun little ride. You have a laser in hand, as you move along you aim and shoot at different targets. I had the highest score. Not sure if that is something to brag about???
I was Space Ranger 2, you can see my score on the upper right corner. They take your picture at some point on the ride and when you finish, as you walk out, you can view them and have it emailed to you free.
We had a wonderful time, even tho everyone and their brother was there. Guess it's not a good idea to go when schools are having their Spring Break. I thought we were in a recession?
Oh well...no matter.

For some reason it didn't post Shelly's score, but she got second place.

Spring has Sprung

2009-03-18T10:36:00.000-07:00

I'm sure most of you can relate to my lack of blogging. It seems that there isn't enough time in the day to sit in front of my computer and post my pictures. I have several things I would like to blog about but time does not permit.
As soon as I got off work yesterday, I went out in the back yard to admire our gorgeous tulips and daffodils that are in process of developing. Such beauty. I just pray the gophers don't find them. Eventually they manage to eat the bulbs, so we end up planting new ones every year. This year, Tom and I are planning on taking the bulbs, after they have bloomed, out of the ground, for next year. We have to read up on that tho.
I didn't think this post would take that much time, so I chose to share some of God's beauty.

Busy Bee

2009-03-03T12:48:00.001-08:00

Well, at least I didn't say busy body. Yes, I have been busy sewing up a storm. I found this adorable, patternless, skirt to make. I made a couple of them for my granddaughter. They look adorable on her too. I hope to get a picture sent to me soon, (hint-hint) so I can post them and you can see for yourself.
They are so easy to make, it is just a matter of a few measurements and you have this darling little skirt.
I am just having too much fun with my Bernina.

My version of Zaccheus

2009-02-23T10:03:00.000-08:00

While singing one of my granddaughters favorite songs on the phone, her mommy decided to record us. I changed the words a little to make it more appropriate for her. She loved it. I had no idea that she would be going in circles while listening. Here she is in their laundry room. It is being remodeled.At the end of the song, she is saying "again, again". Hey, at least she likes my singing voice.

Weight Watchers What?

2009-02-20T09:58:00.000-08:00

Here we go again. The first shipment of Girl Scout Cookies arrived at our office yesterday. No, I am not in Girl Scouts, but Emily, the doctor's daughter, is. So, we get to keep them here. If we don't sell them all, we just eat them.

All ready started on the first box. These things go down so easy. They are becoming bite size to me.

Won't be going to weight watchers for a while. Just use willpower...what is that?

Upgrade 101

2009-02-09T09:15:00.000-08:00

Living in the same house with the same phone number and the same man for 37 years, well, you need to upgrade at times.
I have been wanting to get an over the stove microwave for several years, so I could free up some counter space. Tom and I decided that is what we were going to do for each other for our Christmas gift.
Yesterday we went for it. It took all day and a lot of muscle work, well muscle work on my part because, for some reason, I got the heavy side and neither of us realized it. I think Tom just thought I was being a whimp. He kept telling me that I need to work out more. OKAY...that is good to know.
In order to get the microwave to be flush with the cabinets, we had to remove the cabinet above and cut it 3 inches. So, we had to lift the microwave and hook the bottom on the brackets at least 10 times, nothing is ever easy for us.
About the 11th time, I told Tom to just hold on a second, my arms and back were killing me. Every time we picked that thing up, his side was a breeze, I was grunting and groaning. Finally I asked him to trade sides, maybe it would be lighter, and IT WAS. The whole time, from 11:30 to 5:00, yes that is how long it took us, I was picking up the heavy end. This womens lib thing is ridiculous! Whether we like it or not, women are the WEAKER sex!!!!

Okay...that's "Behind" Me.

2009-01-31T03:46:00.000-08:00

Friday was a fun day for me. After successfully getting through a Colonscopy, and I can literally say I am so glad that is "behind" me. Dore', my dearest sweet what-would-I-do-without-her friend, brought over these adorable daffodils.
So, to answer a few questions you might have, yes Cecelia, the 4 liter or 8 pound container of liquid you drink is flavored, it taste like Alka-Seltzer, that's if you consider that to have a flavor. It's really wasn't as bad as I had anticipated. I managed to get all but one cup down.
I did have two very small polyps, which he removed. We didn't receive a preliminary report, so that means they are benign. It really comes in handy working for the GI that did the procedure, wouldn't you say???
So, I am good for at least another 10 years.

Dore' also brought this yummy apple too. She discovered we have a Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory here in town. Only problem is I had to stay on a soft diet all day. Apples are soft aren't they?
Oh yea, I will be munching down and getting my fruit in today.

So, here's to all that still need to drink a gallon of Golytely and schedule their Colonoscopy....Bottoms Up!

Where's the Beef? Or Veggie Meat

2009-01-29T15:14:00.000-08:00

Do any of you recognize this jug? Well, if you don't, let me tell you...it is a gallon of "Golytely", they use this now in place of the 1 1/2oz. of Fleet, to clean the colon out. Unfortuneatly, I procrastinated on scheduling my colonoscopy and last month they took the little 1 1/2 oz bottle off the market. Guess it was causing renal failure.
So, today I am on a liquid diet AND I get to go home and drink this tonight.
Yummmm

It Is Finished!

2009-01-25T08:48:00.000-08:00

The quilt top is finally finished. I started this quilt back in 2003. Took a break from it due to some health issues. Picked up again last year, and wah-lah. This is called Grandma's Apron Strings. As you can see it has hundreds of squares and blocks. Now all I have to do is get it quilted. We have a long arm in class but I have spent so much time on this, and since I have never used a long arm machine, I am considering taking this to a professional.
There are some ladies out there that can look at a quilt and know just the right design to use. Believe me, it takes talent and a lot of experience to do something like that. It is pricey but worth it.

The border is called "piano keys". I also mitered the corners.

And now, I am off to a quilt show with Dore'. Hope I don't spend too much money. No wonder I have to keep working.

Merry Christmas to Me.

2009-01-20T09:38:00.000-08:00

My children are catching on to my love for teapots. Ryan and Shelly gave this to me for Christmas. It goes with the Pfaltzgraff Winterberry dish set I found at a thrift store for $8.99, place setting for four. They bought 4 more dishes and this gorgeous teapot. Can't wait til this Christmas to use them.

Corey gave me a nice warm pair of leather gloves and a Visa gift certificate for Christmas. Well, I had to go down to the local gift and stationery store to pick up some W2 forms and as I walked through the store, heading for the back, I spotted their dishes, and this adorable tea set. Thank you Corey, that gift certificate was perfect.

Delivering through the woods?

2009-01-19T16:21:00.000-08:00

How is this for artwork? I had to take a picture of this to share. (OUCH). This guy, won't mention any names, delivers our pathology records. He is so proud of this too. I tell him he is crazy, he just laughs. Sorry, but I am not into pain. Doesn't the bible say something about tattooing the body? YES!

Oh yea, it's not finished.

The Farm Chicks Cookbook

2009-01-07T10:56:00.000-08:00

Just came across this cookbook online. It looks adorable. I don't even think it's in the stores yet, you can pre-order though. I thought some of you would be interested in taking a peek so I am adding their blog site:The Farm Chicks

I already took a peek at the site...enjoy!

Happy Birthday Kathleen

2009-01-06T15:45:00.000-08:00

We have a very busy month this month. To start off, Kathleen celebrated her birthday. We were up there last weekend. Yes, I- have- a- few- pictures- of- her- party- but- I- am- currently- at- work- and- haven't- blogged- for- a- few- days. These are the only pictures I have on my computer at work. So, I thought I would share them.
She is such a special woman, to us anyway. I am sure lot's of people who know her will agree. She has a great husband, whom we adore, and of course their beautiful daughter.
We are very close, in fact, we call each other everyday. If I don't call her on my way to work, I know I will get a phone call shortly after I arrive.
Not only is she our only daughter, she is my best friend, my confidante. She is such a blessing to our family. She is also known as the other mother, well being the oldest and having three younger brothers, you can see why.

One of these days I am going to get a scanner that works...so I can scan pics of the kids when they were little...but until then...

Happy Birthday Kathleen....we love you....mom and dad.

This N That Christmas

2008-12-28T18:40:00.000-08:00

This year Christmas was a little different here. We usually all gather here at my home. Now that we have Grand kids, well, it's time to make some adjustments.
We spent a weekend up in Tahoe to celebrate with Ryan and Shelly, they were going to Texas this year to be with her family. We rented a very cozy little cabin and we were blessed with snow so we had a partial white Christmas.

I managed to get a little creative too, I made some Peppermint Bark. So simple and very delicious. Makes a nice gift to give during this time of year.

After you freeze it, for about 15 minutes, you just break it into pieces.

After picking Corey up at the airport, we headed over to San Francisco and attended a Celtic Christmas Concert. The Golden Bough performed. They were great. We enjoyed their musical talent, the harp in particular.

I even managed to get a tree up, even though Corey was the only one to enjoy the aroma and beauty. Tom and I enjoy a tree too. I didn't get any ornaments on it, maybe next year, but it was nice to cuddle up on the couch and have the coziness of the lights.

We took the tree down today and rearranged the living room. Christmas 2008 is over, but not the memories.
Guess it's back to work tomorrow.

Snow What

2008-12-16T10:55:00.001-08:00

My kid's were kind enough to send me some pics of their surroundings today.
Sean's house as it looks today. I can't believe that everyone is getting snow but me, we're just getting rain. I guess that is the price you pay when you are a valley girl...for-sure.

Someone was generous and gave Keiran ski's. I can't believe that he already knows how to use them. Isn't that great!

Sledding down the little hill at their house.

Sean just added this pic to his face book and I stole it. They got enough snow to build this snowman.

A picture of Kathleen's back yard. Geez, everyone is getting snow but me, all I got was a(rock)rain. And to think I drove up to Tahoe just for some snow. I think it followed Lawren home.

Lawren really likes horses. Last year, for Christmas, we bought her this cute little rocking horse. This year, Uncle Ryan and Auntie Shelly bought her a dolly on a rocking horse. She just loves them.

Alive and Kicking

2008-12-15T14:23:00.000-08:00

Just wanted to let you all know that I am still alive. I wasn't sure if I was going to be able to go to Tahoe, since I was down last week with a bad cold, flu or bronchitis, not sure which, all I know is that I was sick. Thankfully I was doing okay by Friday so as soon as Ryan and Shelly arrived, which was about 3:30 in the morning, we packed up and headed out, fog and all.
I haven't been able to blog for a while since my computer died last week. I plan on calling HP tonight, after work. My warranty is still good. Not sure what is going on but one day last week I tried to get online and my power came on but nothing would show. Well, Ryan and Shelly were here this weekend, btw, we had a wonderful time in Tahoe. We celebrated Christmas up there with them since they will be in Texas for Christmas this year. Ryan has an HP also, the same thing happened to his, he called and they were able to fix it. So, I hope to get some pics of our weekend loaded as soon as I can. The trip was wonderful. We had plenty of snow and were able to stay cozy inside a nice cabin with the fire going. We did go out and do some sledding, well Tom and I didn't, we just watched the kids. Lawren loved it. I have a video of her sliding down the side with her daddy and she is doing the cutest belly laugh. She just loved the snow. We loved it up there so much that Ryan, Shelly, Tom and I are ready to move. I think we are gonna have to wait a while for that, at least until they finish school. So, I have a few more years of working here.
No, I wouldn't mind living in the snow. After all, I was ready to move to Upstate New York (picturesque)after visiting Cecelia last year.

Friends

2008-12-03T21:42:00.001-08:00

Who can describe the true meaning of friends? I can...and I will give you the definition...Ann, Anna, Dore',Margie, Susan and Teena. Now I did not put these in any preferential order, just alphabetical, for each of these ladies hold a very special place in my heart. I could add to this list for I have a few more, (they know who they are) but because of distance they could not be here.
Sometimes I find myself having a pity-party because none of my kids live here in the same town, which I have always wanted but life does not turn out the way we always want, right? But, I just have to remind myself of the wonderful friendship that I have been given with these women. I can honestly say I am blessed.Tonight, Dore' hosted a tea party in honor of my birthday. Everything was delectable.Each of us had assigned seating.The sandwiches were adorable. All of the bread and cheese were cut out with different cookie cutters. There were butterfly, pumpkin, acorn and tea pot sandwiches filled with a variety of food. Egg salad, chicken salad, turkey and cranberry, cream cheese and cucumber and cheese with a slice of apple. Don't forget the dessert. Chocolate and pumpkin bites, little tarts filled with chocolate, pumpkin and vanilla. I couldn't just have one, they were small so I had one of each. Hey, it's my party!Anna and MargieDore' and her mom

Ann and Teena

Elizabeth (Ann's twin sister) and Susan...just kidding, Ann's legal name is Elizabeth Ann, some call her Liz or Lizzy, we all know her has Ann. We didn't want Susan to be alone in the picture.

I even got presents. Some delicious smelling candles, one is watermelon, another is vanilla cinnamon brulee. Ann gave me a coupon, good for one night at 7-11 sipping on a soda and watching people, or we can just talk about whatever we want....we have done that before....it's lots of fun.
Dore' made me this bird feeder. Isn't it a clever idea, it's made out of a variety of dishes glued together. It will go in our flower garden in the spring. She put a votive tea light in the top part for now but when I put it outside I will put bird seed there, notice the yellow bowl, that can hold water for a bird bath. Isn't this a clever idea!

Well, it's time for me to go to sleep. My tummy is still full. I am going to have to do my hip-hop abs video twice tomorrow.

Thankful and Blessed!

2008-11-27T16:29:00.000-08:00

Wishing all of you a Happy Thanksgiving.
I love the holiday's. Especially this time of year, the family get together's, the fall leaves, the goodies and the time off.
I was trying to decide if I should go for a walk or blog...oh I guess I will blog first.
This year, well, my table is set.

Ryan is my "Jacob" he is helping me in the kitchen while "Esau" is watching football.

Tom's duty is always carving the turkey. I cook both, real and veggie turkey. This year, Shelly and I preferred the veggie one.

We are ready to eat. This years menu consisted of the usual, turkey, mashed potatoes, cream peas (the family favorite), stuffing, fresh baked yams, cranberry sauce, etc.

This is my favorite, a Cranberry jello ring.

Here is my attempt at a Pumpkin Pecan Cheesecake. Not sure yet how it taste, we are still full from dinner.

And yet another favorite, a pumpkin roll. Yes, this is delicious...filled with cream cheese.

Okay, I had better hit the streets, I still have to weigh on Monday.

Sweet Gifts

2008-11-25T18:52:00.000-08:00

Found this cute little set of bowls at Wal Mart today. It has a sugar cookie mix and comes with its own cookie cutter. What a great idea to give someone.See, its a set of three little bowls.Here is another idea. Rocky Road candy mix with a little spatula.
Sugar Cookie mix with a cutter.
Here is something Teena got for my birthday. I have had my eye on a set of red bowls at Costco, only problem is they are around $60.00 for three. Too much for me to spend. So, Teena found some similar and got them for me.
I bought this little Votive lamp a while back at TJ Max. I got it because of the Red Cardinal on the side. Everytime I see it, it reminds me of my trip last year to New York. You could look out Cecelia's dining room window and see a couple Cardinal's perched on a branch that was covered with snow...just breath taking.

************SSI**************
Thought I would share a story with you before I explain this picture. A while back, oh 3 or more years ago, Nancy, Dr. Tran's wife, who has a heavy Asian accent, came into the office one day and asked me to guess where she had been. She was wearing some sweatpants. I replied, I have no idea....where have you been, she replied, SSI...I said what in the world were you doing at the Social Security Office, she looked at me and said...NO...SSI...I said, yea I know, why were you there? After all, she was only 30 some years old, what would she be doing at the SSI office.Finally, after the conversation not getting anywhere, she said NO...and started pretending she was on a tredmill....LOL...oh, I said you were doing exercise. YES, she replied....geez, why didn't she just say exercise.Here is a pic of my walk this morning, yes I am doing my SSI. I thought this area was pretty, it's about as Fall looking as we are going to get here.

Another Year

2008-11-24T09:19:00.000-08:00

Well, I made it through another year, yes, yesterday was my birthday. I found myself doing things I don't normally do. For instance, Ann, my BFF (best friends forever, but we like to refer to it as big fat friends, but in this case it will be best friends.. okay), invited me to a music concert. It was not a rock concert, or country...it was fantastic. We saw The Laurel Ensemble. As their webpage explains, they are captivating, versatile,and passionate. Six very talented women, each perfecting their own instrument. Flute, Clarinet, Violin, Viola, Cello and Piano.
Now, I don't normally find myself attending something like this, but I will be venturing out more. In fact, I plan on taking Tom to a Celtic concert in San Francisco in December.
If you haven't attended something like this, just try it. It was awesome to sit and watch these ladies with such passion playing an instrument. My favorite was the violinist, but they were all great.

I had a very pleasant birthday too. Each one of my kids called me, which is always a joy to talk to them. Tom and I went to Olive Garden, and yes, I managed to stay on track with weight watchers. Afterwards, we headed to the theater and saw Changeling, wow...excellent non fiction flic.
I don't mind getting older, the alternative is not good.

Pumpkin Pecan Cheesecake

2008-11-21T14:45:00.000-08:00

Ryan has requested a Pumpkin Pecan Cheesecake for Thanksgiving dessert. I have been searching the internet for a recipe that is similar to The Cheesecake Factory. So, if anyone has it, or similar, please leave the directions on my blog.
I found one that looks yummy but not sure how it will taste.

For Cecelia

2008-11-12T19:58:00.000-08:00

Previously, I made a purse out of dish towels. Cecelia had asked me how I did that. So, I thought it would be easier to just blog the directions.
Find any two dish towels or any two pieces of material. Make sure your material is
20 x 28, this is a standard towel measurement.

Fold each towel and lightly press. Press vertically and horizontally. Match up all pressed lines. Pin in place.

Pin towels and stitch vertical line through both towels. Stitch horizontal line through both. This will form pockets.

Trim the excess fabric from towel you used for the outside. I stitched the sides together before I put the handles on but the pattern directs you to stitch the sides after you attach handles. (Here is a pic of the actual pattern.) Click on picture to enlarge and get a better idea of how it is done.
Almost finished.

At one end of bag body, insert handle in fold, pin and sew close to edge. Back stitch
at each end.

Turn the bag right side out and wha-laa. This took a little less than an hour to complete. Now, how easy is that?

Here is a pic of the actual pattern. If you would like to embellish the purse with a flower here is the pattern. Or, you could use a pretty brooch. (I am thinking of making use of the material you trim off from one of the towels.) I might give it a try.

Just a little twist now. I found this cute night lite today, since I collect, and have a love for teapots, I thought this would fit into my decor.

Sew Much Fun!

2008-11-09T19:26:00.000-08:00

There is so many things that I have wanted to blog about but I find no time. So, today I am going to post a few pics of the things that have been keeping me busy. Since I have that new Bernina, I find myself getting crafty again.
This is what I worked on this afternoon. You can make this cute purse out of two tea towels.
I found a whole stack of them at Costco for around $12.00. You don't have to use towels, you could use any material, as long as you have the right measurements.

It took about an hour to put this together. The hardest part is attaching the material to the handles. I have been wanting to make some of these but couldn't find wooden handles. Well, Dore' and I finally hit the jackpot at Joann's. Believe me, if you attempt to make one, don't use round handles, these were hard enough.

Isn't it cute. It holds a lot too.

I happened to look over at Tom, while I am sitting here blogging, to see what he was doing, doesn't he look relaxed???? He is watching football.

TIME FOR A FACE LIFT!
This little piece of inspiration is what started the minor face lift in my house. I found this adorable dresser on Craigs List a while back and wanted it, not needed it, for one of the bedrooms. The woman whom I purchased it from had her home decorated in Shabby Chic style, it was so cozy. So, I came home and did some minor decorating.First thing I did was redo the mantle. Added a lace runner, put some cute dishes and cups I had, added a few candles and pictures.Found some Shabby Chic panels at Target, added those to my front window. Now, you can't see what I am doing in the living room.
This is what my curtains looked like before I got crafty.

Added a border from the left over material I used to cover my kitchen chairs.

Let It Rain

2008-11-05T09:51:00.000-08:00

Here in Cali, at least where I live, we don't get any snow, just rain. But it was a welcome site this year, we had a long summer. I think most of us are ready to usher in Fall. It finally rained last week.
Lawren came to visit us. She saw the water in the gutters and wanted to walk it them. Kathleen found her some rain boots and I found an adorable raincoat for her. She is all set for some more raindrops.

She loved walking in her new boots back and forth in the gutter.

I think she really likes her raincoat.

Here is Seans version of hair. I would not want to comb that.

Keirans version of hair...like father, like son.

FYI

2008-11-03T11:23:00.000-08:00

Just wanted to let anyone know, who might be interested in making Pumpkin Butter. I discovered a few short cuts. Actually, Tom and I made 8 more pints this morning before I left for work....but-I-was-late-getting-here.
Don't skin the pumpkin, clean it out, cut into big chunks and boil with skin. Drain, let cool and then peel..so much easier.
Don't use a sieve, I mashed mine prior to putting it in my Vita Mixer. Saved a lot of time and elbow work.
Hope you have as much fun as we did making this yummy spread.

Pumpkin Butter

2008-11-02T21:07:00.000-08:00

Today, I thought I would get a little domestic, so I decided to cook one of the pumpkins I had purchased a while back. I bought five. Will tackle one at a time.I planned on canning or freezing it so I could have fresh pumpkin to use for my pies this season. Well, I decided to tackle Pumpkin Butter. It was easy except for skinning the pumpkin. I think I will search the internet for an easier way other than using a knife, since a potato peeler won't work.
After cooking the pumpkin down, which only took about 15 minutes, I used my old sieve that I used when I was a real domestic woman.

I found a recipe that called for pure maple syrup. So far, so good.

I ended up with only 5 pints of butter. Well, I do have 4 more pumpkins to cook.

Field pumpkins aren't the best for pies, if you can find sugar pie pumpkins, they have a better flavor. These will do for now.

Pro Bass Shop

2008-10-27T21:24:00.000-07:00

Last Friday, after I got off of work, Tom and I made a trip to the new Pro Bass Shop that opened up here, a week or so ago.I am not into hunting or fishing, but do enjoy the outdoors, love to camp, would-prefer-a-motor home, but a tent trailer will do for now. It was quite impressive and not at all what I expected. This is the outside of the front, soothing stream with fish in it.Above the entrance of the door is this gorgeous display. Feel sorry for the poor animals but at least these didn't end up on someones dinner table.

Never seen a flying turkey before, this one gets to escape the oven this year.Rock climbing doesn't look so hard, I would climb this mountain side.Can't leave out the Grizzly Bear, closest I've ever been to one.Looking up it is this gorgeous scene of the outdoors, the water falls into a huge aquarium, shown below.Here is Tom and other site seeker looking at the huge fish in the tank.A couple of fishermen standing in a stream inside the store, real fish in the water too, Tom decided to be brave and hug this bear.Didn't take a picture of the market inside...it has a FUDGE SHOP. You could smell the sweet aroma of candy too. I was strong, I stayed out of the shop..but I did take a peak to see all of the different variety of candy.

Dancing with the Stars

2008-10-23T13:50:00.001-07:00

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Oh, Where Is My Hair Brush

2008-10-16T10:59:00.000-07:00

There was a little girl who had a little curl...well, you know the rest. Lawren's hair is finally getting a-little-longer. Thought these pics were so cute. It made me think of the veggie-tale song, The Hairbrush.

Fire Station opens with a Big Bang

2008-10-16T10:30:00.000-07:00

While visiting with our daughter, so grandpa could get another load of wood, we went to the local firestations open house. It was quite interesting. They had lots of fire and safety tips.

Lawren got to help one of the firemen hold the hose while it sprayed water.

Lawren riding on the old fashion firetruck with her mommy and grandpa murphy.

She really enjoyed watching the Arsen Puppy get ready for the performance that they were showing later.

Lawren liked Smokey the Bear but she did not want him touching her.

I think the highlight of the the whole day was Lawren in the jumpy house. She just loves them

Almost Time

2008-10-15T13:32:00.001-07:00

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Pumpkins Galore

2008-10-13T16:43:00.000-07:00

Friday, during lunch time, Tom and I made a quick trip out to our favorite nursery. They were having a Fall sale, lots of pumpkins, 3 for $5.00. Rows and rows of gorgeous fall pansies, I love pansies.

A whole wagon of pumpkins to choose from.

They were making homemade Apple Butter. I had been online earlier looking for a good recipe to make some.
Tom is standing on the side talking to the gentleman and getting the directions to make it. Problem is, I don't have a big copper kettle.

These mums were absolutely beautiful. The perfect fall colors.

This is my attempt at decorating my porch for fall....I know, I need some more pratice.

Tea Time!

2008-10-09T13:40:00.000-07:00

Today, Dore' and I decided to have lunch. I suggested the new tea shop here in town. So, we had lunch there. I am considering a tea party for my birthday, I wanted to check out my options. It was just adorable there. The food was tasty, and the tea, Peach Ice Tea, herbal, I didn't even have to add sugar, it was delicious.

One of the windows from the sidewalk, so cute.

One of the many seating areas.

The scone counter. We didn't try any, will save that for my party.

Another seating area.

Dore' nice and satisfied.
After we had our lunch, we walked around the room and took pictures. I took them with my phone.

A covered seating area. Not sure what you have to do or who you have to be to sit in here, but what a nice idea.

I thought this was a cute little teapot lamp.

They also host children's tea parties, and adults.

The tea room where the parties are held.

There is another tea room here, we stopped there on our way home. If your interested in checking it out go to The Silver Tea Pot.I found these there and had to have a couple.

Home Improvement

2008-10-05T18:53:00.000-07:00

My kitchen chairs have been in dyer need of a change. They were stained and dirty. Lots of years of use. I decided to head to Joann's Fabric today and buy some material.
When Shelly and Ryan were here visiting, we took some time to go check fabric out. I never did post the pics from that trip, will have to get those posted.
Anyway, I found this material, Waverly, and really liked it. Their not pink, like the picture is portraying, the material is red and beige.Here's the new look. Tom and I managed to cover six chairs this afternoon. I love it. Now I am going to have to change my window coverings. That will be done some other weekend. We also planted 120 tulip bulbs this morning. Only 180 more to go. Yeah....I painted it. I seriously took into consideration every ones opinion. As I looked around the neighborhood and our property, well, it's not like I live in the country. So, I decided to paint the door. I am just a city slicker, or some could say, a valley girl..like, for sure. I am thinking about painting some of the trim to match the windows. Not sure about that tho. It takes me forever to make up my mind. I still don't have a top for our vanity in the master bathroom. Hey, I will make a decision soon.
Found this idea in a magazine. I bought the basket at Michael's today, on sale. I have a magazine fetish, I hate throwing them away. There is always good ideas for decorating or whatever, so I tend to hang on to them...for a very long time. Well, here is a good idea. Use any kind of basket you want, or decorative box, put some file folders inside and label them, kitchen, bath, bedroom, patio, whatever you want. Now I can go through my magazines and tear out the pages I want to keep and throw the magazine away. Good idea right!

Special Visitor

2008-10-03T14:03:00.000-07:00

Today, Tortera came to visit us at the office. She is a little Chihuahua-mix. She belongs to Dr. Tran and Nancy, well she is really Nancy's pal.
I might add that she was named after a Pokemon charater.
Occasionally she gets to come to the office. We also babysit her at times. No, I don't get any extra pay for it. But, Melissa and I really enjoy her company. When she was just a little puppy, she fit in the pocket of our scrubs. Yea, we would stick her in there. So cute.
At times she is a little fearful. When Nancy leaves her, she will whine and shiver for a while.

Well, today when we got back from lunch, she decided to take up residence in my chair. I didn't have the heart to move her, so I just moved the chair back and got another chair. She seems to be quite content now and I don't want to upset her.
She is being a good girl.

Murphy's visit Murphy's

2008-10-01T10:37:00.001-07:00

We took a trip up to Big Trees last Sabbath with Sean and his family. Big Trees is located right after the town of Murphy's. Here we are standing inside one of the Redwood trees.
They are beautiful.

Here's Grandpa and I taking a break with Keiran. Keiran didn't need the break, Grandpa and I did.

Just to give you an idea as to how big the trees are, here is Keiran with his arms stretched out at the base of the tree. The root's on a Redwood can encompass an acre of land, their roots are very shallow, making it easy to fall over.

Keiran standing inside one of the trees.

When this area was discovered, back in the 1800's, they cut this tree down with intentions of sending it to New York to show the massive trees that exist here. They used the base as a dance floor, and the tree as a bowling alley lane. Apparently the New Yorkers weren't impressed. Come on Cecelia, what is up with you guys?

Another resting spot. Yeah, we needed another break, the area is BIG.

Keiran wanted to go swimming in the river, so we drove over there after our hike around the forest.
Sean and Keiran did get wet. Well, Sean got his feet wet, Keiran got wet up to his waist. The water was very cold. They found the perfect spot to sit and enjoy the water with it's imponderable beauty.

In case your wondering why I am posting this while at work. Not to worry, with this computer, it takes about 10 to 15 minutes to load pics...I am entitled to two 15 minute breaks.

It's Here!!!!

2008-09-28T20:31:00.000-07:00

Oh what..Oh what could be in this box?????
This big box arrived Thursday and I knew exactly what was inside.

As some of you know, I have wanted a Bernina sewing machine for a few years now. When I started taking a quilting class, you have a choice of a Bernina or Elna. I chose the Bernina. It is made in Switzerland and sews perfect stitches.
I have been trying to purchase one on Ebay for quite some time. Every time I put in a bid I get outbid. Well, last week there were several on Ebay. They would go between $900-$960.00. I really didn't want to pay that much. There was one you could buy instantly for around $1200. I don't think so. Although they are worth every penny, I had set my mind to a certain amount and was sticking to it.
This particular one was ending on the weekend. I put it a low bid just to see what would happen. I kept watching it, no one was bidding. I knew that the closer it got to the end, more people would start bidding. Sure enough, someone put in a little higher bid. I decided to cap off at a certain amount, $725.00. But, I didn't put my bid in until a few seconds before it ended...and whaa-law...I won.
I would say, if there is something you really want on Ebay, bid on the weekend, everybody else is either partying or shopping...hehehehe
The infamous Bernina.

I decided to set it up tonight to test it out....it works great!

This is a pic of the next project I want to make. It is called French Roses. Go to Dore's blog, she has more pics of it. You can get to hers from mine.
Click on the pic, it will enlarge, it is absolutely adorable.

A closer look.

Help!!!!

2008-09-24T10:35:00.000-07:00

We had a new front door installed, now I am not sure what to do. Should I paint it an off white, or stain it? Give me your opinion, please.

Click on the pictures to enlarge and get a better view.

Back To Reality

2008-09-23T09:19:00.000-07:00

Well, we made it back from Disney and our visit with Ryan,Shelly and Corey.
We had a great time. Ryan keeps saying that we wore him out...I think it is the other way around. I will post pictures as soon as I get some extra time. I feel like these past few weeks have been like a whirl wind. I had to jam and get all my paper work done so I could hand the church treasure job over the new treasure.
I have pics to post of our camping trip, visit with Lawren when we got a load of wood and, of course, Disneyland.
This week will be filled with getting my house cleaned up, oh yea, we had our favorite son-in-law install a new front door. Can't wait to share that pic with you.
I am helping host a progressive dinner on Sunday, so, I am trying to decorate for the fall. Don't forget I have quilting twice a week, the quilt is coming along nicely. I finally bought my Bernina 1130. Got it on ebay. I should receive it sometime this week. I am so excited. I will be able to really jam on my quilt.
Well, I am at work. Seems like this is the only time I have to blog...while at work...not good.
TTFN

FYI

2008-09-15T09:20:00.000-07:00

Gone to Disneyland.....

Extreme Makeover

2008-09-10T20:15:00.000-07:00

Tom and I went over to help the Lewis' move back into their home. It was a year ago in August that their house burnt. I took some pics of the move. By the way, I have more pics but not enough time to post them.
I am actually multi-tasking here. I am working on my quilt and trying to blog because I am tired of looking at the quilt's I can't have. I am half way finished with my 168 squares that I need. Next week we go on vacation and I will miss my quilting class. So, I have been trying to discipline myself in the evenings, which is hard for me since I tend to put things off until tomorrow. Why do something today that can be done tomorrow.
Anyway, I just thought I would share some pics so you all can see the progress with their home.
As I type, they are moved in, cable and all.
Here is Dore' packing up the rental home.

Dore' Sr. as spry as ever. She is such a delight.

The entrance, living & dining room.

The kitchen from the familyroom view.

The Family Room from the kitchen view.

Simply Quilts

2008-08-29T12:17:00.000-07:00

Sorry, the picture is a little fuzzy. I took it with my cell phone. It is absolutely gorgeous. One of the women in class brought it to show us. They do that as soon as they get one finished. Then we can all covet.
Unfortunately, I have 2 quilt tops finished but not quilted. To have one quilted you need a long arm machine. They didn't have one at class before, they do now. I could have taken them to a shop but it is very expensive.
She bought each block with a different bird on it and put borders around them and quilted it. It is beautiful. "I whont that."

Here is another quilt by the same lady. I only wish you could see it in person. The quilt stitching is amazing. She is going to give it to her son. I am sure he will appreciate it, if not, I am sure his wife will.

Just giving you an idea of what my area looks like at class. So many squares and so little time.If only I had my own Bernina at home...that is a hint for my children!

Here is 11 of the 168 blocks I need to make my Grandmothers Apron String Quilt. I started this about 3 years ago when Cecelia and I were taking a quilting class. She moved away and I lost interest. I will give you a little insight as to why quilts are so expensive. They are TIME CONSUMING. Each of the blocks contain four small blocks, and each small block has either two or four tiny squares. This is all done on machine. To think the Amish do it all by hand.
Not to worry, I'm gettin er done.

If you happen to be bored, I added a Pac Man game on my blog. Scroll down a bit, it's on the left. Let's see who gets the best score. I stink at it. Have fun!

Happy 30th. Birthday Corey

2008-08-27T21:40:00.000-07:00

Yes, Corey is 30. I can't believe how time has passed. I think my kid's are catching up with me. August 24th. is the actual day. It has taken some time to post this. Life can just get to hectic, especially when you have quilting class two nights a week and made a decision to attend prayer meeting, not to mention I have a full day half pay job.We had a great weekend last week. We celebrated Corey's 30th. birthday. We also included Tom and Jeff's birthday, since their all in August.Everyone arrived Friday evening, which is always exciting for me.Sabbath morning, Kathleen, Lawren, Pa Pa and I went to Sabbath School. It is so enjoyable to watch Lawren participate in the program. At first, she was the only one there, she got to do everything. The theme was Noah's Ark. The classroom was so adorable, someone, with a lot of talent, built a "gianormous" Ark.Teena brought over a cake for Tom. It is suppose to be a golf course, since Tom loves to play golf. I think the sandtraps might be a little larger than normal.Forgetting about Teena telling me she was making a cake, I had gone over to DQ and got this Oreo Cookie Blizzard Cake. Good thing, because Teena's cake was a little on the sweet side. I think she may have read the recipe wrong, instead of a cup of sugar she used the whole 5lb. bag. It was delicious.I fixed Hay Stacks for lunch. That always feeds a multitude. I think it is comparable to Bread and Fish.After lunch everyone decided to cool off in the pool.Uncle Corey and LawrenKeiran and his daddy.Here is Grandpa practicing for the big day. All of the guy's were going golfing Sunday, so Tom wanted to get some practice in hoping that he would have the best score. He didn't, Corey did. Tom didn't practice enough.The kid's played out front for a while. Here Keiran is on his scooter. That is his other Grandma in the background, Ginny.
Lawren on her scooter.Lawren loves everything her cousin does. Keiran was running and jumping on the lawn and she was just sitting there laughing at him. Lawren has helmet hair.
Kathleen called me after they left. She said when they got a few blocks down the road Lawren was saying, "bye grandma, bye papa, bye uncle corey." So precious.

What is Happening?

2008-08-25T20:30:00.000-07:00

Today has been another one of those "Cecelia" days. I wasn't able to pick up our other vehicle, due to the fact that I procrastinate, and thought I was going to be able to pick it up this morning. I let Tom take the car thinking I would walk over to the shop and get the truck. Decided to check my account to see if the payment, for my card, went through. It wasn't there. So, I call the company and was informed that they are just like any bank, in fact they are a bank. It takes a 24 hour business day to process, meaning it won't be finished until tonight at midnight.Teena was so gracious to take me to get my car so I could get to work. Before I went to work, Corey and I decided to go to the Mall and look at some basketball shoes. Arrived at work after lunch. Walked into a mess of phone messages. People are getting so demanding and rude. They want something, they want it NOW. What is happening to our society? What happened to "please" and "thank you", where are all of those gentlemen who use to hold doors open for women when you went inside the store? How times have changed. We have so many conveniences now that are suppose to make life easier, all it is doing is making people more impatient and rude. It's making me into more of a confrontational person cuz I am not going to take the attitudes. You all have heard of road rage, well I have a new one, office rage!Anyway, as soon as I finished work, I had to take Corey to the airport. Tom suggested we leave 2 hours early because of traffic. It only took 1 hour, so we found Togo's and had a sandwich. Tomorrow morning the gentleman from the conference is coming to train me on a new program so I have to prepare for that. I just need to get some rest.I still have to post about our weekend.

How Does She Do It?

2008-08-22T23:05:00.000-07:00

If any of you, and I know that most of you who read my blog, know Cecelia, or have been around her for a day, wonder how she manages to get so much in in a day. She is the only person I know that you would find in the kitchen canning and freezing fruit and vegetables minutes before she is to go on vacation.
Well, unfortunately, I don't have that kind of energy. In fact, I am one of the world's biggest procrastinators. My motto...why do it now when it can be done later. At times I have put so much stress on myself with that kind of thinking. Today was one of those day's. Knowing that my kid's would be coming to visit for the weekend so we can celebrate some birthdays, I left everything for the last minute. I'll try to make this short and to the point.
We had to put Tom's truck in the shop to get the transmission fixed, leaving us with one means of transportation. He works' a split shift so his hours do not coincide with mine. I have your ordinary mundane schedule...9-5. Sometimes I refer to my job as a full-day-half-pay job. When Ryan and Shelly were living here and worked as substitute teachers, sometimes they worked half day but received full pay. Not me... I have the evenings to get some things done in the house...like, clean the bathroom, change the bedding, sweep and mop the floors, dust...etc.
Well, this week I kept putting it off. I decided to go to my quilting class on Tuesday and Thursday, which is 6:30PM to 9:30PM, oh and I actually went to prayer meeting Wednesday night. So that leaves me with Friday to get everything done. Started the day with getting up at 1:00 AM to take Tom to work, so I could have the car. Went back to bed as soon as I got home. Got up earlier than usual and dusted the furniture, did a load of laundry, had some papers to copy that I needed to fax to the conference, yeah...I am the treasure at church. Got dressed and went to work. After work, I had to make the deposit for the church (that should have been done on Tues. or Wed.) but put it off until today. Had to fill up that gas tank so I had to go by the bank and get some cash. Not using my Chevron card because I don't want to support Dubi so I am using Arco. Was going to drive out to the fruit stand to get some fresh ears of corn for tomorrow's barbeque.I decided to just get while doing my grocery shopping. Stopped by Dairy Queen to purchase the new Oreo Cookie Blizzard Cake for the birthday boys. Got home, unpacked the food, listened to a message on the phone, which was the mechanic telling me the truck was ready. Decided to walk to the shop, which is only 5 or 6 blocks away. It's about 5 PM and still warm outside. Okay, just walk over there, you need the exercise.On my way to pick up the truck, after walking about 3 blocks, I was hot and sweaty,I'm tired and hungry, but there is still so much to do. As I am walking, a car with a couple of young guys pulls up along side of me. I thought to myself, they had better want directions because it is too hot and I am not in the mood for a mugging. I was carrying a big purse on my arm. What could they possibly want? I stopped and stared directly at them, they both looked at me and smiled, I was not smiling. Apparently I was standing in front of the guys yard. I turned and proceeded.
Arrived at the shop, gave the man my credit card, it wouldn't go through. What in the world now? He handed me the phone so I could call customer service. A very pleasant lady answered and when I told her what was going on, she checked into the problem. Apparently I was LATE with my payment, I told you I am a procrastinator, and they would not allow me to use my card until Monday. I sent them a payment but it will finish processing until then. I searched inside my purse but didn't have $2400.00 to give the guy.
So, I have to go back Monday to pick up the truck.Walk back home and change the bedding. Clean the floors and...now Kathleen, Jeff and Lawren arrive. I forgot about being hungry too. I tell them that I have to pick Tom up around 7 or 7:30. Oh yea, Corey called me late last night to tell me that he won't be driving up here, he is flying so can I pick him up at the airport around 9:40? Sure, I will have time.Tom calls around 7, it's only about a 20 minute round trip. I will have plenty of time before I have to leave to pick up Corey. The airport is only about an hour away. I can leave at 8:30 and be there by 9:40.
On my way to pick Tom up, I decide to call Corey and make sure he arrived at the airport on time. When he answered, I asked him where he was, he told me he was boarding the plane. WHY ARE YOU BOARDING THE PLANE SO EARLY, IT'S ONLY AN HOUR FLIGHT TO HERE? He said, I told you last night that I changed my itinerary. Yeah, he called me while I was in a dead sleep, around 11 PM. He asked me where I was and I told him I was on my way to pick his dad up. He thought I was kidding. Nope, not this time. I could detect some anger, or frustration in his voice.I opened my email this morning to get a copy of his itinerary. I noticed he sent it twice, by mistake, so I deleted one. Looked at the time..yep 9:40. Plenty of time.So, now I am jamming. Pick Tom up, drop Tom off. 7:45 heading to the airport in hopes that I can make it in an hour or less. Please God, no traffic or accidents. I noticed a sign on the side of the freeway, "Don't Speed, Save a life and Save Fuel." Thought about it for a second, looked at the speedometer, and hit the peddle. Forget the cost of fuel, the wrath of Corey would be much worse.He only had to wait about 5 or 10 minutes. Not bad ehh!Got home and all is well. After pondering on all that I got accomplished in one day, I can only think of one other person that has day's like this......CECELIA.

Into The Wild

2008-08-20T12:00:00.000-07:00

We went camping with Cindy and Michael. We were up past 6000 ft. The weather was cool and the camp area was gorgeous. Cindy and Michael are avid campers.When I was packing for the trip, I told Tom that we needed to stop and buy some plastic forks,he said we have plenty and handed me a box with "forks" in there. When we got to camp and sat down to eat, Cindy had brought a couple, she is an avid camper, and I had only 4 in the box I brought. So, we learned how to eat spaghetti and pancakes with a spoon.This area was so delightful to the eye. CLick on each picture and it should enlarge.There were a few little butterflies along the path.Your not going to believe this but....We went for a walk along the creek Sabbath afternoon. I have a thing for sitting on a rock in water. I think that I might be a Mermaid in my next life. Maybe because Mermaids always look so curvaceous with their long silky hair flowing down their side. As we wondered along the creek, Michael found a large rock out in the middle of the creek. Cindy told me to go out on the rock and she would take my picture. As I scanned the area for a path, I had to crawl up onto a log, okay I can do this, if I fall, well I would hit some rocks, okay that might not be a good idea for a woman-in-my-shape. I can do this..I proceed to climb up onto the log, when I walked a few inches, I noticed there were two more logs to walk across before I reached the rock. I asked Michael if there was a different route on the other side of the rock, he said there was. I wasn't about to walk out on that rock and then have to come back over the 3 logs. So I cautiously turned around and went back up the log to shore. As I was walking around another rock and heading to the other side, Michael thought he would meet me and show me the path. When he jumped down off of the rock he disturbed a Meat Bee nest and they decided to have a snack. He began to run up on shore and was yelling. Cindy thought he was playing a trick. Well, he wasn't. He had several bee bites on his arm and legs. "I want to go home now." So, we turned around and headed back to camp. Okay, so I settled for a picture on a log. When we arrived back at camp, Cindy walked to the Grounds Supervisors trailer to see if they had a first aid kit. Michael had never been stung by a bee so she didn't know if he was going to be allergic to them. The supervisor didn't have any Benadryl or anything for bee stings but she knew of a good remedy. I had read somewhere that a banana peel was good, so he gave that a try. It gave me some relief when I had poison oak. Cindy and they supervisor arrived on a golf cart. She was carrying a paper plate with an unlit cigarette on it. She pulled the filter off took the tobacco out and poured a little water on the tobacco making a paste. She dabbed each bite with a little. Unbelievable, but the next morning you couldn't even see the bite. It did give Michael some relief too. The lady they got the cigarette from walked over, they were camped right across the street from us. We were expressing our unbelief in the remedy and she responded, "hey if they can kill us just think what they will do the bee sting." She had a good point. Sunday morning Cindy and Michael left early to take a shower. You had to drive 7 miles or so to go to the next town where they had a store, showers, laundromat, restrooms. I declined the shower, knowing we would be going home soon. Besides, the price of a 5 minute shower was $3.00.While they were gone I munched on some Pop Tarts, watermelon and peaches. When they returned Cindy asked if I was going to eat breakfast, I told her I was full. So she said she needed to fix Michael some breakfast. All we had to eat was either Pop Tarts, fruit or pancake mix. She decided to fix him some pancakes. I got my griddle out and some Pam, you need Pam because everything sticks to the griddle. She heated up the griddle, poured the mixture on and waited a few minutes. When she was ready to flip the pancakes, she said, "They are sticking!" I asked her if she was certain that she sprayed the griddle, she said "Yes". Well, Michael walked over to the table and, jokingly asked her if she used "this" as he picked up the can of bug spray...guess what...she had. Cindy is an avid camper.A new form of Pam. Problem is, it doesn't work as well.Before we left camp, we wanted to see where you can camp right by the water, so we walked over to "Walk In Camp." You carry your gear to the camp sight but leave your car up on the hill. You have to carry your food back up to your car each evening and then bring it down in the morning. Don't want to attract any bears during the night...right?Picturesque surroundings.Tom, immersing his feet in ice cold water.Here is a picture of the stream as it flows down into Donnell lake.Our last stop, before heading home, was this vista point. Known as Donnell Lake. History Time: John Bidwell was a native of New York. He became a major leader of American settlers to enter California. Looking out over the valley, one wonders how they were able to cross over this rocky, sheer canyon, in covered wagons. I added a video of running water, so sit back, close your eyes and enjoy.

Birthday Boy

2008-08-19T17:51:00.001-07:00

Tom had a birthday today. I took him to his favorite restaurant, Tahoe Joe's. We finished the evening with a blizzard from Dairy Queen. See, he is real easy to please. I am pressed for time today. I left work early so we could go to dinner. My quilting class starts tonight and I can't miss it. I would write a lot more about how wonderful he is, but time is not permitting. Oh my goodness, I am pressed for time and my computer decides to shut down and do some configuring. Okay, it's back. Anyway, just think of all the wonderful qualities that could be found in a man and apply them to Tom. He does have one flaw....he forgot our anniversary...grrrrr!

Please....Don't Feed The Bears!

2008-08-14T22:14:00.001-07:00

In this case, The Receptionist. For some reason people love to feed me, and I love to eat. Jeff, the guy who delivers our Pathology reports, use to be a Bakery Chef. He loves to bake, and he knows I love to eat. Periodically, he brings us something he has baked. Today was Chocolate...and I can't remember the rest of the name. All I know is it was rich and NOT fat free. Although he told me he was willing to lie and tell me it was if it made a difference. At some point in my life I have to lose some more weight, not today. We put a sign up, it read "Please Don't Feed The Receptionists". At my office, we have to weigh every new patient. I love it, just to see the reaction from people. Everyone is different. The skinny ones hop right on, while the over weight ones tend to hesitate, or have a negative comment. If after their weighed and not happy with the results, I just tell them, "ah don't worry, this scale weighs about 5 lbs. heavy. I always try to make them feel comfortable, before they step on, I just tell them to guess at it and see how close they come, or they can do what I do when I have to be weighed, I just ask the gal who is weighing me to just write down "still fat". I always get a little chuckle out of them and they hop right on the scale. (I don't know what is going on with blogger, but it won't seperate my paragraphs.)Chocolate something loaded with cream, egg, butter, chocolate, choc chips and drizzled with fudge all over the top. There is one piece missing, I devoured one before I thought to take a pic. I don't even remember what it taste like, all I know is it was missing something, a glass of milk. This is Melissa, the gal I work with, my partner in crime. She is always telling me that I am a bad influence on her. I asked her why she thought that, she said she has gained 10 lbs. since she started working with me, a year ago. I told her only 10 lbs, that wasn't bad cuz I can do that over a weekend. As soon as Jeff told me he dropped off some cake next door, I had to run over there and see if they were pigging out. Since I have worked in the SAME office for 20 years,next to the SAME doctor, we are well acquainted. Here is Kate, not only ready to dig into the cake, but eating a burrito. That was her breakfast.Well, Tom and I are off tomorrow for a camping trip where they have real bears. Not to worry, I won't feed them, not intentionally. I was told that we needed to put our food in the trunk of our car. Guess I won't be keeping any midnight snacks in my tent.

Sew Crafty

2008-08-11T17:56:00.000-07:00

Well, what do you think? This is my first attempt at Embroidery. I love embroidery linen, although I don't have much. I found a book with several ideas and fell in love with this one. Dore', what-would-I-do-without-her, knew how to Embroider. So, I asked her if she would teach me. Well, she gave me the confidence I needed. She made one too. We worked on them together. At times it was like the-blind-leading-the blind, but we did it. There is another one, it will be a Poppy. They are hand towels. I am planning on donating them to Rachael's etsy store. That's if she wants something like this.
Hopefully I will be able to get the other one done soon.

Grandmother's Flower Garden....
These are hand sewn pieces that I have been working on for quite some time. It is known as "Grandmother's Flower Garden." I am sure some of you have seen them. They are very-time-consuming. You have to cut each hexagon out, base stitch the material to the paper pattern (by hand) then hand stitch them together (by hand) to make one flower.It keeps me out of the kitchen and refrigerator. The hardest part is choosing 3 different pieces of material. I have 13 flowers finished. I think I need a total of 32 or more, depending on what size I want. So, it is going to take some time to finish. There is still a lot more squares to cut and sew. But when it is finished, it will be my pride and joy.
Okay, time for a history lesson. Quilts made from hexagons are characteristic of English patchwork.
The patterns were brought to America by early English settlers. Of these patterns, the one most familar to American quilters is Grandmother's Flower Garden, a one patch design made from equilateral hexagons. English quilters call them "honeycomb quilts".

Hopefully it will look similar to this pic.

Dore' and I signed up for a quilting class today. I took a class several years ago and have an unfinished project that I am desiderate to finish.

BTW....Today I was dismissed from 2 1/2 month jury duty. Thank You Jesus!

Rachael's Simple Wishes

2008-08-09T18:05:00.000-07:00

Would like all of you to know that Cecelia's daughter, Rachael, has an online store that sells homemade items. It is called the Etsy Store. Rachael's store it known as "Simple Wishes." She has several homemade items listed to sell. The unique thing about her store is all of her proceed's, well 90%, goes to Lopukhinka Orphanage in Russia. A quote from Rachael, "where children took delight in little scraps of plastic toys and the girls gathered round with pleasure to share one donated doll." Some of these children have never had the opportunity to open a gift.
I have listed a link to her store. Scroll down just a little and on the left hand side you will see some items. Natalie, her sister, makes her own pottery and donates them.
If you would like to donate anything to this cause, I know that it would be greatly appreciated.

Happy Birthday Bonti.

2008-08-06T19:32:00.000-07:00

Today is my sister's birthday. Mary Yvonne, but we know her as Bonti.
When Corey was learning to talk, he had a hard time pronouncing Aunt Yvonne, Bonti would always come out. So, the name stuck. When I was young, we called her Sissy.
She is my big sister, only by a few years, six to be exact.
She has always been my close friend, mother-at-one-point-in-time, and my buddy. We have such fun together. We can just look at each other and start laughing. Oh the memories I have of us just cracking up over crazy stuff.

She is an animal lover. I don't think I can count how many critters she has had. She is so good with them too.
She is a wife, mother of two sons, grandmother of 10 or 11, I lost count, and a great grandmother of one.
She is the best sister anyone could ever want.
We love you Bonti.

"Happy Birthday" Jeffery

2008-08-06T18:40:00.000-07:00

Jeffery's birthday was yesterday. I tried to get this posted the same day, but time did not permit me too. I won't spoil it and tell how old he is. All I can say is he is a lot younger than I am.

Jeffery came into our lives 18 years ago. He is our favorite son-in-law. We only have one. If I had to choose a son for our daughter, and could choose one out of a million guys, I know I would have chose him. He is such a great guy. We have so much fun together.
I know that if we ever needed anything, and I mean anything, he would be there for us.

You are such a blessing to this family. You consummate this family.

You become more special to us with each year that passes by. You know that you are Tom's bestfriend.
Words can't describe how much we really love you.
Love,
Your Favorite Mother-in-law

Flummoxed-Vexed-Nettled.......

2008-08-04T18:45:00.000-07:00

This is absolutely rediculous. I can't post a picture or a page element. So frustrating too.Okay, just found a help website. Apparently it is a blog problem, not an individual computer problem. Whew....I was getting vexed.
Did I happen to mention that I have jury duty this Wednesday? Yea, on top of everythign else, I have to go. I called everyday last week and they just had you call the next day. Well, Friday I totally forgot to call and remembered around noon. Quickly made the call and...low-and-behold, I was suppose to appear at 12:30. Yea right, I was going to make that one.
So, got up this morning, thankful that I haven't been arrested, and made the call. I actually spoke to a very pleasant woman. She just said that I could pick which day I wanted to come in, either this Wed. or Thurs. Hmmmm, major decision there, how about sometime next year? NOT...

A Year of Crockpotting.

2008-08-04T14:15:00.000-07:00

Those of you who need new, easy ideas for cooking, look no further than here. This lady appeared on the Rachel Ray show. She just happens to be a blogger. There are 365 recipes to look at. So, take a minute and check out her blog. There are vegetarian recipes too!

http://crockpot365.blogspot.com/

Sorry, I can't figure out how to get a direct link, so your going to have to copy and paste her blog address. Or, you can just scroll down a little bit and click on her link titled "Crockpotting", under my "Favorite Web Sites".

Tell Me the "Tooth"!

2008-08-01T11:46:00.000-07:00

Unbelievable. I have been so excited about Ryan and Shelly getting here. They got in this morning at 5:00 AM. I could hardly sleep last night. I woke up around 3:00 to use the restroom. I called them and they were just two hours away. I finally got myself back to sleep. Well, they finally rolled in and I got out of bed. It felt like my left lower jaw was a little swollen. I went into the bathroom to take a peek, sure enough, it was a little puffy. No pain tho. I lost a filling, in the back, about six months ago, some of the tooth fell off too. It didn't' bother me so I just ignored it. No pain, don't mess with it. I went on about my short visit with the kids, they were tired and wanted to go to bed. I went back to bed too.
Got up around 8 o'clock to get myself ready for work. I figured that I might as well go to work since they would be sleeping all morning. When I got to work I thought I should call an oral surgeon because I figured I would be loosing the tooth and I didn't want to go through the weekend with a toothache.
Was able to get in to see the dentist this morning and he took an xray. He said that there is definitely an abscess but felt that the tooth is savable. He suggested I go to a GD and see if they can do a root canal. Now that sounds real exciting. I think I would rather have the tooth pulled.
Remember my post a few weeks ago when Tom and I slept out in the back yard? Remember the penny I found under the mattress and my first thought was the tooth fairy new something I didn't? She was trying to warn me, I think!

Wanted....New Family?

2008-07-29T20:42:00.001-07:00

Yesterday was my 35th. year anniversary and no one remembered, not even my dear sweet husband. Tom and I, last week, talked about taking the day off and going somewhere. Well, we both ended up working, but I thought we would maybe go to lunch or dinner. You would think after that long it would be embedded in his brain.
I waited all day long, he even called me around lunch time, didn't mention a word. I thought for sure one of my kids would remember, NOT.

So, after work I decided I would just treat myself to something, what else than a new Hummingbird feeder. On my way home I made a stop at Pet Smart. I had seen the Oasis feeder on Youtube and the birds were swarming around it. Okay, I have to have one of these. I came home and immediately hung it up. Wasn't too long after that a bird was perched on it and sipping some nectar. Ahhh...what a sight.

Still no calls from anyone. Okay, I want a new family. Well, that was yesterday. Today I feel different. I know that we can all get too busy in this life. None of them would ever intentionally forget each other.

Got a text from Ryan late last night. Oh yea, Sean called me early this morning. Corey finally called me after the earth quake they had in LA. He told me that he can't even remember birthdays let alone an anniversary. Let's hope that when he gets married he won't forget his.

You see I had finally mentioned it last night while talking to Kathleen. She was so apologetic and quickly alerted her brothers. When Tom called me, around 8pm, to let me know he was on his way home from work, I said, " Oh yea Happy Anniversary". Well let me just say he is trying very hard to redeem himself. I have a few thoughts as to how. Will let you all know when.

By the way, I don't want a new family. I am so blessed and loved by my husband and kid's. The Lord knew just what I needed in life and He made sure I got it.

Oh yea, I went to Jack-in-the-Box for dinner and then drove to Home Depot and got a couple African Violets. Had to have some flowers for my anniversary.

Priceless Pictures.

2008-07-28T13:32:00.000-07:00

Did you ever give it much thought about how or when the camera was invented? FYI, sometime around 1826, the first pinhole camera was invented.
Wonder why...maybe because some people love their picture taken. I am not one of them. Maybe so we can hold on to precious memories or history to learn from. Regardless, I am very thankful it was invented. Anyone remember the Brownie Camera?
For whatever reason the camera was made, all I can say is thank goodness or we wouldn't be able to blog, and what we would we do without blogging?

I like to visit TJ Max whenever I have some extra time. I found this dress on sale and it had a matching dress for a doll. It was the perfect size too. I snatched it up.

This pic is with my camera. I thought I was using my camera while we were there. Kathleen and I have the same camera, I was using hers.

We took a trip up to Lawren's house this weekend. Kathleen wanted to take her husband out on a date. So, Pa Pa and I drove over there. We had a lot of fun with her.
Lawren loves to swing. We spent a lot of time outside playing on her swing. Well, as much time as Grandma could take. It got a little warm for me. I am so looking forward to the Fall.

Lawren loves to be read too. Kathleen and Jeff have done a great job getting her interested in books. From day one, they read to her. When she was a around 5-6 mo. old, you could tell her to turn the page and she would do it immediately.

I was taking a nap with her. As soon as she woke up, she looked at me with her innocent brown eyes and said "Grandma", I answered "Yes", she followed with "n PaPa".
Funny how some children will bond with a family member and be fearful of another.
She is crazy about her PaPa. She never excludes him.