Bon Bon Bonnie

Reminding Myself...Black Friday is Cold and Miserable!

2011-11-23T08:11:00.000-08:00

Be mentally prepared!4am parking lot... 23 degrees. World's rudest people out at this hour!

Laughing, Starbucks(Five Bucks),
shopping & bonding with my daughter... the reason I do this!

Making Homemade Dishwasher Detergent

2011-08-19T17:49:00.000-07:00

Okay, I saw the idea on Pinterest... had to try.

I was so surprised how much detergent it makes.

I may have enough for the next 2 years!

This is how I made...

1 box Borax (WalMart, Clothes Detergent Isle $2.98)

1 box Arm & Hammer Super Washing Soda (WalMart, Clothes Detergent Isle $3.24)

1 jar of Fruit Fresh (I had, I think they are around $2-3... The stuff is full of Citric Acid)

3 Cups Epsom Salt ($2)

Mix all ingredients together in a VERY LARGE Bowl. When mixed well, put in container of your choice (I have a smaller one for under my sink and I did a large container for storage in the garage) make sure it is air tight to keep the detergent from hardening.

So my whole project cost me a little over $11, but I have enough for at least 2-3 years!

Use 1 Tablespoon at a time!

Summer

2011-08-17T15:34:00.000-07:00

Daughter Graduates from College in 3 years...

so proud of her, then she lands her dream job...

she is now always working, and loves it!

Son and husband... always fishing!

I started to redecorate my daughter's room...

more furniture to paint!

Lost my dear sister-in-law at age 46 to cancer.

She is missed dearly,

but I'm grateful she isn't suffering anymore

Ideas and projects in my head...constantly!

Then there is this little booger!

I don't blog anymore... maybe that is a good thing!

So enjoying Pinterest...fast, easy, inspiring

The Farm Chicks Show '11

2011-06-08T11:51:00.000-07:00

Well, I can check off "The Farm Chicks Show"

off my bucket list!

Daughter & I traveled three hours by plane to get there, and then enjoyed almost a week in Washington/Idaho. It was fun, I just wish we could have bought some BIG stuff. I've decided this a great way to attend a show and not spend too much money!

Getting My Life Back.

2011-05-24T08:34:00.000-07:00

WHEW...

Time to get my life back!

However, I haven't missed blogging.
Does anyone read my blog??? (thanks to the two that do)

Weddings, Parties, Graduation...over

Looking forward to some fun this summer.

I think my garden felt sorry for me...

It grew some lettuce by itself...artichokes too.
It misses me, wants me to plant stuff in its soil!

Why I don't BLOG lately

2011-04-08T08:12:00.000-07:00

I've been busy the last month, and realized the next will even be crazier. The last few weeks...

I hosted a pom-pom making party (decorations for a friends wedding)

Take daughter for a photo shoot, get announcements made for graduation

Lead a Bible study weekly for ladies

Shopping for all wedding stuff

Teen boys over for an all-nighter dinner, video games, etc.

The next few weeks...

Make costumes for Easter play at the church

A few trips down to the flower mart... (long drive)

Make floral centerpiece arrangements for a spring event at The Ronald Regan Library

Go to rehearsals and be in Easter play

doctors appointment

Son's birthday

Easter (I want to decorate)

refinish 2 tables (needed for wedding)

Coordinate wedding, reception... make decorations & then decorate

Daughter's college graduation

Party for daughter

Son in marathon (this will be so fun to watch!)

REALLY, WHO HAS TIME TO BLOG???

The Last Window IN... yipeee!

2011-03-15T09:17:00.000-07:00

Celebrate... The last window in! This was a long project, not only did we replace the windows, we removed the old frames and made new ones. We do feel the house is a little more sturdy.

notice the three beams in the room...

they are holding up the celine while we build a stronger frame.

This project is stressful!

Now we get to frame the windows with wood. One project done, 5000 to go!

We should adopt!

2011-03-12T13:53:00.000-08:00

I saw this blog... http://tulipandturnip.blogspot.com/2011/03/more-stenciled-onesies.html and decided I needed another kid because I want to buy this outfit.

It made me laugh so hard!

Some things look BETTER with SNOW

2011-03-09T11:57:00.000-08:00

Although, it is sunny and 75 degrees outside,

I'm reminded of two weeks ago

when we had a beautiful dusting of 3" of white.

The snow just encourages me to get rid of the ugly red roof!

He melts my heart!

2011-03-07T11:55:00.000-08:00

Chocolate Bundt Cake w/ Ganache

2011-03-05T11:35:00.000-08:00

I must admit everytime I make a BUNDT cake,

I can't help but think of MY BIG FAT GREEK WEDDING,
and laugh while making!

Thank you Sanda Lee for this recipe... I make often and it is ALWAYS a hit!

Cake:

1 box chocolate cake mix (I like dark chocolate cakes)

1 box (3.9 oz) chocolate instant pudding

1 cup water

4 eggs

1/3 cup vegetable oil

1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips

Ganache:

1 cup heavy cream

2 cups semisweet chocolate chips

Cake

preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

spray bunt pan with a non-stick spray

combine cake mix, budding, water, eggs, and oil in large bowl. Beat for 2 minutes

Stir in 1/2 cup chocolate chips

Transfer batter to Bundt pan

Bake for 45 min or until toothpick inserted near center of cake comes out clean.

Cool cake in pan on cooling rack for 15 min.

Invert cake onto cooling rack, cool completely

Ganache (my favorite thing EVER)

Heat cream in small saucepan over low heat until small bubbles appear.

remove from heat and add the chocolate chips to cream and stir until smooth

cool ganache just until slightly warm

Pour ganache over cooled cake

Transfer cake to serving platter

Garnish with additional chocolate chips

I like to use the extra ganache for serving, (I warm up for 30 seconds in microwave) you can drizzle the plate or even better, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the cake and drizzle warm ganache over the ice cream!

Burp Cloths

2011-03-03T11:12:00.000-08:00

Baby gift needed ASAP... I'll make burp cloths!
I used two coordinating fabrics
I cut them the length of the fabric 54" (makes 2)
5" for the middle bug fabric
3" (x2) of the orange
3" (x2) again of the bug fabric

Sew all the pieces together, using 1/4" seam allowance

Trim threads and IRON!

I use new white bathroom face towels (wash before sewing)
(I've made with cloth diapers, and they don't work as well)
Put right sides together and pin.
Sew around fabric 3/8" seam allowance,
leaving an opening to turn right inside out
(or is it outside in???)
Trim extra fabric and towel
turn inside out/outside in??? :)

Pin the pieces together and quilt stitch in the ditches of the

seams of the coordinating fabric.

Fold cute, tie a bow around them. Done!

5 things to smile about... part 2

2011-03-03T09:07:00.000-08:00

pulling a weed and getting all the roots with it... victory!

getting through right away when you call a big company

When someone's leaving a public bathroom at the same time as you, so you don't have to touch the door (yes, I'm a germ-a-phobic)

correctly guessing an old password you haven't used in a while

catching up to the car that just passed you at the next red light..ha!

I think I'll SMILE all day long!

The One who makes me LAUGH!

2011-03-02T11:04:00.000-08:00

I saw my son wearing this sweater last week. He looked so handsome in it! There was something about the grEy sweater and his beautiful blue eyes. I made the comment, "if you wore that sweater at school, you would have girls begging you to be their boyfriend". He said, "I'll make sure I NEVER wear it at school, I don't have the time or money". I laughed hysterically!

I washed it for him and today he will see the note I left.

Grey & Yellow Bag

2011-02-25T09:46:00.000-08:00

For the record: I was taught in 2nd grade that it was gray not grey... so I'm having to use my brain and reteach myself how to spell.

Last month I went to a Grey & Yellow Party for a friends birthday. She loves the colors, her house is painted grey with a beautiful yellow door.

I had bought her a yellow candle and wanted a bag to put it in as her gift. So, I sewed one!

I cut 2 grey squares approx. 9"x 9", along with 2 straps- 4"x 13"

I cut 2 yellow squares 9"x 9"

I cut 2 pieces of iron-on interfacing 9" x 9"

Iron on the interfacing to the wrong side of the grey squares (I did yellow & wish I did the grey)

Sew the 2 grey squares right sides together...3 sides (a big square U), turn out and iron

Sew the two straps... fold in half so it is now 2" thick (right sides together) leave the ends open, then turn inside out & iron

Sew the 2 yellow squares right sides together...3 sides also...HOWEVER, leave a 3" opening at the bottom of the U (you will use this to turn bag inside out) turn and iron

Sew the straps to the yellow piece (right sides together) make sure you space evenly

Put the two bags together (one inside the other with right sides together

stitch along the top of the bag

Turn the bag inside out(that is what the opening on the bottom of yellow piece is open for)

IRON

whip stitch the opening on bottom yellow piece

Make a flower, add a broach, do something!

The Romantic Weekend that went SOUR!

2011-02-21T09:33:00.000-08:00

We tried to have a romantic weekend as we traveled to Santa Barbara. We had planned this trip for months, and decided to stay at our favorite hotel, eat at our favorite restaurant, and enjoy the beautiful sunshine. We left early Friday, with it raining cats and dogs and I was feeling a little yucky. We stopped in Monticito and did a little antique shopping at the most expensive antique stores in the country. I wasn't having much fun, maybe it was the prices in the store or the fact I was feeling feverish! Our last store however did take a few degree's off my body. It was a cute little botanical store, which made me smile the entire time I was in there. I found a beautiful G. Wolff pot which I've wanted one for years since reading an article about his pottery. Also, there was a unique vase that I knew I couldn't leave without. My dear hubby, (was he feeling sorry for me?) said "you should buy them". I did walk out of the store with a pep in my step.

Well, hubby was hungry so we decided to go to SB and go to State street to his favorite restaurant. It was raining sooo hard! As we were driving, I noticed everything looked closed and dark. We parked and started walking to make sure it wasn't closed (it seemed strange to be closed on a Friday afternoon). Sure enough, the power was out. After a sad look, they agreed to serve us, but it was limited what we could have. I felt bad watching the chef cook in the dark. We then decided to head to the hotel, the weather was horrible, and I was feeling the same. I put on my PJ's at 3pm and went to bed... didn't get up until 11am the next morning. Feeling worse, we left early and came home. We did stop at the Farmer's Market on the drive home and my sweetheart bought me a orchid (I've always wanted one). Any who... I've been in bed since Saturday, but I keep looking at my new orchid in my new pot which keeps me smiling.

Things I want to get done NEXT month...

2011-02-17T09:52:00.001-08:00

work on my garden

make these pillows for me & the Mr.

finish decorating the Awana's Room at Church

redecorate daughter's room...

I want it to look as beautiful as this!

finish the decor for Whit's wedding

Cabin Update

2011-02-01T08:40:00.001-08:00

I never thought I would say this... but I just want to work at the cabin! WHAT????

I'm really getting excited. I see a picture of how it is going to look finished in my head. I told my husband yesterday... when it is done, it is going to be so beautiful, it will be featured in Log Home Magazine... He laughed and said, "REALLY"? As if I was dreaming, maybe I am... but I think it will be that wonderful. It is good to feel positive (for once) about this project. I've been such a "glass half-empty" person with this one. Maybe it was the carpenter bee's or the black mold, tearing out EVERYTHING in the house, moving exterior walls with a tractor and a telephone pole (and praying the house doesn't fall in) and sanding every square inch of wood inside & out.

Windows on bottom New... top Old

They still need to be trimmed out!

The view with big open widows is amazing

I can't sleep at night because I think about what I'm going to do with our bed(it won't fit in our new bedroom at the cabin and it is the wrong style). I had wanted this bed before we got married. After a few years, I had enough money to buy it and the nightstands... so we went to the most expensive furniture store (the only ones who sold it) in town and bought them. I told my husband I want to die an old lady in this bed (how romantic or is that gross?). Well, I'm fearing one day I will need to get rid of it and I'm sure my kids won't want it! So I lose sleep (I've been losing sleep over the bed now for over one year... and I'm sure it will be years before I need to get rid of it)!

Well, we are 1/2 way done with the windows. 17 down- 16 to go (woo-hoo). Imagine them being trimmed out with nice wood... we aren't there yet!

Also, I have one day's left of prelude (UV primer for wood) then I can put the acrylic gloss on the logs. We did however finish the Master bedroom as we wanted to see how it would turn out. Notice the wood shinny... this is the finish on the master bedroom. The black spots will have tongue and groove and there will be a log placed in between the wall and ceiling

Lavender...R

2011-01-26T14:39:00.000-08:00

My friend Jami at http://www.freckledlaundry.com/ gets credit for this project.

While cleaning out my laundry room, I found a big bag of lavender and I began to throw it away. I somehow, dug it out of the trash and thought 'I could make SOMETHING' (that is my clutter problem ...I think I will need it ONE DAY). The following day (so glad it wasn't years) Jami had a post of how she covered a chipboard letter with the lavender.

Hip-Hip-Hooray... a project to use up my lavender!

My local craft store was offering $1 off any letter.

I looked at the chipboard, but didn't like the shape of the "R"

I used a staple gun to attach the ribbon,

then used a hammer make sure it was tight!

LOTS of glue

It helps to pat down the lavender.

I think I'll go hang it on the front door!

Crazy for a Daisy

2011-01-25T18:52:00.000-08:00

Something about the simple flower that makes me smile!

5 Things to Smile About... part 1

2011-01-21T12:59:00.000-08:00

1. Hearing a song that takes you back to the past
2. When that zit growing on your face suddenly just disappears
3. The moon lighting up the night sky
4. Staying up so late that everything becomes funny (good times Bec)
5. Seeing your family who has been on the other side of the world for the last 10 days!

What makes you smile?

Is this MY laundry room???

2011-01-20T10:05:00.000-08:00

I'm truly ashamed to show you the before pictures of my laundry room! It hasn't seen a clean day in 4 months and the cupboards....years. I did a boutique back in November, so it was my craft station in the house. Then there was the holidays... and now the new year, time to get this place clean! I'm a follower of http://www.domestically-speaking.com/ and she is having a new years challenge to clean the house (I must admit, there were moments I was mad at her and myself for reading her blog... today, I just want to thank her, give her a big kiss on the cheek). This week was the laundry room, as if painting the inside of the house by myself in 5 days wasn't enough work for me. Last night I decided I would clean the laundry room. I gave myself 10 hours to make it look beautiful... throw away stuff, clean EVERYTHING. So I cranked up Pandora... I learned this week that I clean better to Dave Matthew's Band and Sting and a must...avoid Taylor Swift.

SO ASHAMED!

I'm smiling!

whoo-hoo... the cupboards are clean!

why do I craft???This makes me happy

I can now find what I'm looking for!

STAY OUT... KEEP CLEAN!

Okay, I'm sick of painting!

2011-01-19T07:55:00.001-08:00

I know I should finish today... but I'm tired! I've painted for 5 days straight, trying to get the clean look back in our home. The last few weeks have been killer between scrubbing the walls, steam cleaning furniture, painting, etc. I need to go to Hawaii now(dreaming)!

I did a few (very small) changes in the hallway. Otherwise, I used the same ole' colors in the rest of the house and nobody will notice my hard work.

Here are some painting pointers...

1. NEVER use Lowe's Valspar.... that is the worst paint on the planet! If you love it... we need to talk!

2. ALWAYS listen to Pandora radio (choose your favorite type of music) while you paint. If you turn on the regular radio... Taylor Swift might come on and you will end up singing...

She wears short skirts, I wear T-shirts. She's cheer captain, and I'm painting on a ladder and can't change the song.

I think I'll go clean my laundry room today!

Good-bye Clutter! Day 1

2011-01-11T08:21:00.000-08:00

A new year... I want a more organized house!

Thanks to http://www.domestically-speaking.com/ I worked on my pantry this morning!
My family should thank me... if I would have prepared food that was in here, I might have killed them because there was some extremely OLD expiration dates! YIKES! And you ask, "why does she have three containers of Crisco?" Because it was so messy, I didn't know there were two others. (thinking about what I could of bought instead of Crisco)

I am on a 10 day mission to get this house in tip-top shape, Organizing, cleaning, painting, decorating, etc! I'm so excited and dreading all at the same time.

Visiting my FAVORITE Antique Store

2011-01-08T07:39:00.000-08:00

Tempted... but didn't spend a dime!

The SOOT Saga

2011-01-07T07:07:00.000-08:00

I did the responsible thing!

I acted my age (for the first time in my life)

I choose Option #4

I went to Disneyland.... whoo-hoo!

I'm NOT quite as happy as Mary!

2011-01-06T08:06:00.000-08:00

Our chimneys were SO dirty that smoke kept coming out of the wood stoves, so we decided to clean yesterday. Hubby on the roof, son with head in the stove pulling wire brush thingy with two thick pieces of string on each end.

I have my head in stove with my son with a small shop vac... (big one is at cabin) and I'm sucking a years worth of soot. My head so far up the stove, and not noticing that I had already filled the small vacuum, and it was blowing right back out into the house. I pull my head out,,,, and it was like the black smoke from LOST. I was SO sad looking at the furniture, walls, and floors.... too sad to cry. I'm TRYING to put my Mary smile on today....

Option 1- Clean like crazy (will take a long time)
Option 2- Sell the house as is

Option 3- Clean the best that I can, go buy new flooring, furniture, and paint

Option 4- Go to Disneyland and worry about it tomorrow!

getting ahead on BIRTHDAY gifts

2011-01-05T07:02:00.000-08:00

love these baby composition books... they make me smile!

Every new year, one of my goals is to be better about giving

small birthday gifts to random people.

Unfortunately, I do well the first 4 months!

So I figured if I get ahead, I can bless those who have a birthday in November?!?!

I purchased many journals on clearance from Target.

Some just composition books, others small notebooks, etc.

I'm fixing them up and gifting with a nice pen. I love these things!

I have made in the past and I use as my prayer journal (I love seeing how God answers my prayers) and I also have a goal journal every year.

Bye-Bye Buttons

2011-01-04T07:58:00.000-08:00

This year's goal... empty my button jar!

Another button project. I used scrap sweater material to make the backdrop. Then trace a heart on the material and glue on the buttons.

50 buttons down, 234,328 to go!

Snow Day.... (smiles)

2011-01-03T07:52:00.001-08:00

I think I'm extremly hormonal today!

2011-01-01T19:57:00.001-08:00

I'm not sure what is wrong with me, and I'm thinking my hormones are all messed up!

I watched the rose parade this morning, (and was crying) watching some of the college bands playing as I was thinking about the students mother's who were watching on their TV from across the country and how 'proud' they must have been seeing their kids in the parade. I had to quit watching it in fear I might get the "my wife is being weird, which week of the month is it?" look from my sweetheart.

Tonight, nothing on TV... so I turn on a re-run of the parade. The family was all sitting around the TV with me when I LOST it! The parade started with the stealth flying and I start crying (I've seen this thing so many times... I've been waken from a deep sleep with that obnoxious thing shaking my house), then they show Paula Deen as the grand marshal... and I'm thinking how a little old lady has been so successful cooking with all that butter and at this point I'm sobbing out of control. Next, the military marching band and I'm so grateful for all that they have done. I see the first float, and I'm crying at all the work that went into these masterpieces. I tell my family, "We should have been there, we should have went to the parade".

The family first stares at me.... trying not to laugh... then they break out laughing so hard that they are crying. They insist that we turn off the parade (which they can't stand watching) and the son grabs the remote and starts looking for a movie with guns. I think I'll go in the other room and cry about Paula Deen and how I'd like to sit and eat coffee cake with her.

Simply BeAuTiFUL

2010-12-31T09:24:00.000-08:00

http://jonesdesigncompany.com/

is having a wonderful giveaway.
Her pillow... YES! Everyone needs THAT pillow!

Rain, Rain, go away................................. I want to wear my new boots TODAY!

2010-12-29T11:15:00.000-08:00

The Christmas Cards I Made and Never Sent

2010-12-24T09:06:00.000-08:00

Okay... Christmas snuck up on me...again! I made cards last month, yet never got them sent out. I think I'll make a few more this next month, and if I address them in February, maybe the family and friends will get them in December 2011.

I really had fun making these cards...

I took scraps of burlap, and frayed the sides, copied a picture that I liked (visit... http://www.graphicsfairy.blogspot.com/ she has the best stuff on the Internet), and zig-zag the picture to the burlap and pre-made blank cards from the local craft store (use your 50% coupon).

So, for my family and friends who didn't get a card.... SORRY, I love you and Merry Christmas!

Pillow #1

2010-12-16T19:54:00.000-08:00

Well I made my first pillow.... feeling like I don't need PB anymore in my life...Okay, now that is a fat lie. HA!

Hopefully I will have time tomorrow to make another.

Sweater Pillows

2010-12-16T08:37:00.000-08:00

I stood in Pottery Barn for over an hour last week trying to decide if I should buy the pillow or not. I knew it was way over my budget, but honestly... I love the pillows! They are $39 each plus you have to buy the inserts which are $24....$63 for one pillow???? Deciding to do the right thing, I didn't buy them. After much thought and a slim amount of cash in my wallet, I decided I would make my own. I hit the thrift store and bought many white and cream colored sweaters.... I learned if the item is over 14 days old... you get the item 1/2 off. I went to Walmart to buy pillow inserts, was terribly disappointed how expensive they were. So I went to the bedding dept. and found regular bed pillows for $2.50 and decided I would take a small amount of stuffing out and make them the size I want.

So here I go... I'll be sewing today. My pillows will cost me less than $4 each

RULES

2010-12-14T06:47:00.000-08:00

My "college" kids come home this week.

I thought they should be welcomed at the door,

a welcome home sign.

Let's just say, the Mr. and I are getting use to a clean house

and we like it!
(actually, I'm so excited to have them home, I'll clean up after them....shhhh)

How to Replace Glass in Kitchen Aid Oven

2010-12-11T14:08:00.000-08:00

I had used the self-cleaning setting on my oven and started to wipe down the oven before it was totally cooled off… and when I put a rag to the inside door, the glass broke. I called the local appliance repair store and they wanted more than I could spend not to mention it would be at least 2 weeks to get the replacement glass. With Christmas two weeks away, and my desire to bake… I went online and ordered the glass from Kitchen Aid, which was only $35 and they sent it 2 day- fed ex. Whoo-hoo! So my dear husband replaced it for me.

This is why I blog on how to fix:

1. to help anyone that has done this

2. because I need reference when I do this again

3. remind myself how wonderful my husband is

Here is how we replaced it:

(be a better wife and clean the oven more...oh wait, that is how I broke it! keep the oven dirty)

Check if there is a hinge stop bracket. Open the Kitchen Aid oven door fully. Locate the hinge-locking lever on top of each hinge. The locking lever looks like a larger part of the hinge near the oven door cavity. Rotate each of the locking levers forward to unlock the door hinges. The lever pivots over the top of each hinge.

Grasp the door on both sides with your hands, and begin to close the door until the door stops.
Lift the door off the oven and place the door on a padded flat surface with the door handle pointing down.

-Have a table with a cloth on top ready to lay the door.

(my poor husband, he abuses his hands (see his thumb) doing projects for me)

-Remove the outer screws, starting from lower side of the panel.

-Remove the inner screws. REMIND YOURSELF NEVER TO BREAK AGAIN!

-Keep all screws ordered, and take note of the order you remove them. We learned the hard way!

-You will follow reverse order in reassembly.

I learned you can use a screw driver to remove, but must use a hand screw driver to put back together (my man is smart).
-The frame will be free now, remove the external glass panel and leave it in a safe place.
-Keep going until you get to the inner glass, remove broken glass, clean area, and replace with your new glass.

-Clean outer glass and metal door, re-assemble it and mount it back

It took about 40 minutes for the entire project... and we saved about $250

I better go make my sweet husband cookies now for helping me out...

One of the Happiest Day's on Earth

2010-12-11T07:53:00.000-08:00

Let's be real... I've been to Disneyland about 8 times this year, but yesterday was one of the best. The park was over crowded, you couldn't get on any rides, the weather wasn't perfect... however, it was wonderful hanging out with my family!

We told the kids to ditch the last day of school before finals (aren't we good parents) and go with us to the park. I do laugh at how OLD not only me and my sweetheart are, but my kids! Around 7pm, everyone was ready to go home and go to bed.

It was so fun laughing, and the four of us hanging out together. This day will go in my "fond memories" part of my brain!

I feel good!

2010-12-04T18:56:00.000-08:00

My heart is full... Today was our annual Ladies Christmas Luncheon at the church which I oversee. I'm so blessed when everything turns out great, and it did. The music, speaker, food, and fellowship was so great.... it couldn't be any better.

I have to publicly thank my beautiful daughter to traveled to help out. I know how busy she is preparing for finals, but came with some friends from school to help me for the day. I cant believe how blessed I am to have such a wonderful daughter, always willing to help someone in need and she is a kindest person I know. So thanks Becca-Boo!

We have table hostesses who decorate a table for the luncheon. Each one, with their own dishes, and decor of their choice. If we had prizes, my mother would have won. Her table was so fun. It was a whole rustic theme, and I'm sorry I don't have better pictures. She had rocks around the table (they were chocolate rocks) they looked so real, and it was funny watching ladies eating rocks. She did a burlap runner, had tin cans on the chairs full of treats for the guests to take home. Wood everything...It was so CUTE!

I was so busy preparing food, decorating the room, etc. that I didn't put much effort into my table, but thought I'd include for you to see.

Well, I can rest now for 11 months until the next luncheon. WHEW! I must be kidding myself... I'm a pastor's wife, I don't get to rest! I really enjoyed the message, and as the Christmas holiday quickly comes... I hope to really focus on what is REALLY important. That I would remember WHY we have this holiday... My Lord! I hope I don't get caught up in the commercialization, but make memories with my family. I think it is funny how we get things so mixed up... we spend so much money, buy junk, when our greatest memories are things that cost nothing, by doing fun things together... playing cards, making a craft, cooking something together, even trimming trees.

I'm officially ready for Christmas now!

Freckled Laundry Giveaway

2010-11-30T17:45:00.000-08:00

my FAVORITE BLOG, of ALL TIME is having a giveaway to celebrate her blog 6 month anniversary. Head over there, become a fan. http://www.freckledlaundry.com/

Success at the Boutique

2010-11-23T06:52:00.000-08:00

My sweet daughter and I had a great time doing the boutique at the church last weekend, and we did much better than expected. I now have a fever to make more stuff, but realize I have so many 'other' things to do (painting inside of house, re-tile a bathroom, restore a log cabin, put on a ladies luncheon, cook thanksgiving dinner, etc) that I really need to hide the sewing machine, glue gun, and the box of vintage jewels! I did have a few things left over, so I think I'm going to set up an etsy account, which means I will need to spend hours figuring out how to set it up. So for all of you who already have an etsy account and your cute sidebar on your blog about your etsy, I admire you!

In the mean time... I will not craft, I will not craft, I will not craft...

but there are a few of you who keep tempting me (as I smile)... http://www.freckledlaundry.com/,

http://tatertotsandjello.blogspot.com/,

http://www.whipperberry.com/

The Gathering Place Giveaway

2010-11-19T07:21:00.000-08:00

What a great giveaway for her one year anniversary... head over to The Gathering Place http://thegatheringplacedesign.blogspot.com/ and enter to win one of her beautiful wreaths. I want to win her front door...ha!

A Sign of HOPE... Cabin Windows begin!

2010-11-10T06:29:00.000-08:00

I've mentioned it over, and over... This is by far the HARDEST project my dear husband and I have ever done! We have built many homes, but yesterday I told him I was worried this project going to put me in the grave (kidding). I don't know if it is because we have to commute so far to work on it, or the fact we are truly doing ALL the work ourselves.

I have to admit, I'm SLOWLY falling in love with the house. We were laughing yesterday because everyone who has seen the house, HATES it. We were discussing that when they see all the work we have done, they are going to LOVE it. Then we had someone visit, and they gave us the look that they still hate it. We laughed!

We have been installing windows and finding more wood rot as we go, and I keep buying marine epoxy... I've spent so much on the stuff, I'm convinced the house will be so strong that the wolf will not be able to blow it down (or the carpenter bee's).

here is a picture before the battons

making battons

Battons...after

I'm not done staining them (I need more hours in a day).

As I look at the house, I see HOPE. We found a metal roof color that matches the windows and I'm starting to see the finished project, and I get excited. I must admit, I pray daily for strength for my dear husband and myself. I have to give my hubby credit... he is simply amazing. He knows how to tackle and build anything and he has a better attitude than me. I sure love that man!

Online Magazine... Best Ever!

2010-11-07T07:36:00.000-08:00

Check out Amy Powers http://inspireco.blogspot.com/new Christmas Online Magazine. It is simply adorable with great craft idea's for Christmas! Beautiful pages. Check it out...

The Palm Tree That Grew!

2010-10-25T20:07:00.000-07:00

Once upon a time there was a young lady, who was given a baby palm tree in a dixie cup. She had a new home that her handsome groom had built, and so the young lady decided to put it in a planter at the entrance of the house. It would be their love tree.

The young couple began a family and time passed so quickly. They enjoyed watching the children grow, just like their love tree. Years had passed, and wrinkles began to appear on the once young couple. Yet the palm tree continued to grow.

The family once considering moving... yet they loved their home and it was so full of memories. And so they stayed... with their love tree. The children grew up and went off to college. It was just another milestone in the couple's lives. But there stood the big, strong palm tree... just like their love and marriage. It was so strong that it could break walls down, and nothing could stop the tree from growing!

And so the day came when it was time to move the love tree. A place where it could continue to grow and reach new heights.

...I know one day we will move from this home. I will miss this tree, we have laughed for many years about the funny little (big) thing that we planted from a dixie cup that destroyed our planter. It now has lots of room to grow... and I get a new fancy planter... yipeeee!

I love stucco!

2010-10-19T06:03:00.000-07:00

This last month we discovered we have carpenter bee's... I thought at first it was termites (wishful thinking). Those little boogers are destructive. I think we killed them, now we have to repair the 30+ holes they have put in the house.

A word to the wise, buy a stucco house built with anything but logs. This is log-rot which has already drank $300 worth of epoxy.

One day, the house will be done... and I can sit under the porch and enjoy the hard labor we did. yes, one day!

The Small Price of College...HA!

2010-10-07T12:40:00.000-07:00

I had went to my home page and there was an article on "THE 10 MOST EXPENSIVE COLLEGES". I decided I should read the article to make myself feel better(since we have two kids attending a private college this year).

As I started to read, I was preparing myself to see the kids school listed. I figured, it MUST be in the top 10. To my surprise I'm SAVING (ha-ha) about $20,000 per student/per year by NOT sending our kids to the top 10!

Sarah Lawrence College -Bronxville, NY $57,556 (I've never heard of this place and I'm glad my children haven't either) After seeing the school, I now know why it's so expensive.... you live in a mansion!

Columbia University - too expensive

University of Chicago $56,640 a year... are you kidding me??? Again, saw the picture... you get to live in a CASTLE!

Harvey Mudd - Claremont, CA $53,600 I'm sorry I wouldn't attend a school named "mudd" and get charged that. I've been to Claremont, it isn't beach front dorm real estate.

I then decided I would check my kids school ranking.... #240. IS THAT IT, for the price we pay? I did feel much better, knowing that the average cost of college in between 30-40K per year. So start saving NOW young moms!

Now here is my children's castle.... you get what you pay for!

Well, after all this research...I sat and thought about how grateful I am that my kids go to a GREAT college! Both kids are involved in Bible Studies & love God. They are influenced by the most incredible staff and they live under big oak trees. They are turning into wonderful adults, how do you put a price on that??? So basically, my kids go to the top #1 most expensive school (for my budget), it is ranked #1 (my list) and guess what....it's worth every dime!

Remnants of the Past Show...Fun!

2010-10-04T18:57:00.000-07:00

What a wonderful girls weekend.

It was full of laughter and carbohydrates!

The girls kept me entertained with silly stories and

talk of burlap and glue guns!

Amber has a way of making anyone laugh and smile...

Like when she wanted an old spice rack that was $195,

and she wanted to offer the lady $20.

I saw so many beautiful things...

I'm very thankful for this trip. God blessed me!

I made lasting memories.

Thanks to my beautiful daughter who

is the sweetest and kindest person I know.

My new favorite BLOG!

2010-09-28T22:13:00.000-07:00

http://www.threepointsvintage.blogspot.com/

Well, I have a new one... maybe because it is one that my sweet Becca and I are doing together. With her talent, writing experience, and media communications degree (this May)... It should be great. We are looking forward to starting our new business together... and it begins with a blog.

I'm a BAD, BAD girl

2010-09-07T14:11:00.000-07:00

I'm so glad my husband was there holding my hand as I did the damage.

I found the towel bars, TP holders, hooks, mirrors, and lights on clearance.... YIKES! Somehow I had this inspiration to get the cabin done!

It started off with seeing this bed. I live among so much manzanita.... I must do this! LOVE this bedding!

Okay...let's get this house done!

The cabin... continues

2010-08-26T07:29:00.000-07:00

it has been FOREVER since I've talked about the cabin. Maybe because I feel it will be FOREVER before it is finished! But we are saving money by doing everything ourselves. We are almost done sanding the entire inside. wow, what a job! At least it didn't take as long as sanding the entire outside.

Thought I'd share some of our work....

this project is only possible because of these two incredible men... my dear husband and wonderful son who is always willing to help!

I was experimenting finishes.... The logs on top and bottom have not yet been sanded. The ones in the middle with a gloss is the finish that I wantAs you can see.... logs on left-sanded, logs on right-UGLY!

A special thanks to my daughter who is the best wire pulling, cleaning, and vacuum girl ever!

It is a victory when one room gets done!

addicted to.... DISH SOAP!

2010-08-19T12:11:00.001-07:00

I bought some dish soap about 4 months ago and paid WAY too much. However, since I've had THIS dish soap, I like to do dishes. I even mop the floors everyday with it, and get excited how good it smells. So, I decided to quit feeling guilty for spending the money on the dish soap, it's much less expensive than a housekeeper, and I've never been this excited to clean.

I went online to find where I can buy some more, and compare prices. I found the actual Farmhouse website. http://www.farmhousewares.com/ Well, needless to say, it is now my favorite online store, and mama wants these baskets!

Well, I only bought cleaning stuff, so I can look forward to a clean house.. I even bought the laundry soap. I really dislike doing laundry... and somehow I can't wait to sit in the laundry room folding clothes that smell like lavender all day.

These boxes may be my next purchase

It's the Final Countdown....

2010-08-18T06:21:00.000-07:00

Okay, today is Wednesday, that means in 3 days it is Saturday (for all of you who don't know how the calendar works).

My baby leaves for college in 3 really short days. I'm a little scared... the time has arrived to be empty nesters.... boo-hoo.

It is hard to believe how fast 18 years will pass when you are having fun.

I need prayer.... and a new dog!

A PARTY FOR THE QUEEN BEE!

2010-08-04T08:00:00.000-07:00

bee....70!

the Sweet Bar

Mom was celebrating her 70th birthday so we decided to have all of her friends swarm over to my hive for a party. It was so fun. Nothing like a bunch of ladies, playing silly games, line dancing, blowing bubbles, and eating yummy food.

playing the "bee fact" game and bee'ing silly

I've been so blessed to have such a wonderful mom...

she is the greatest queen bee EVER!

Hen House Hilton

2010-08-03T07:32:00.000-07:00

Well we decided to kill two chickens last week...

and I must admit I felt like a mean Mrs. Tweedy (chicken run)

cleaning those birds.

Mr. Tweedy told me, "if those chickens don't start laying eggs and having babies we will eat them all." Personally, eating one of the chickens made me want to vomit. Somehow, chemical and water pumped chickens from the freezer at the grocery store, dont make me as nauseous!

So we built a little hotel for them yesterday. As we were thinking about how to build a nesting place, I remembered we had some old old window frames in a shed. So the idea came!

Built a box, put on legs, painted it white, and attached the frame.... wham!

Now I want to make a sign for the top. What should I name???

Hen House Hilton or Mrs. Tweedy's Bed and Egg-fest

I'd love suggestions!

The $11 spent on Friday

2010-07-17T06:00:00.000-07:00

Well, I was excited... I made a list of things I wanted to find while hitting the local yard sales. I went to 3 total, and found everything I was looking for and spent only $11. On my list was:

Belt Buckles
vintage jewelry

scrabble game

I want to make some belt buckles like on Gypsy Brocante... hers are gorgeous!

http://www.gypsybrocante.com/category_28/Belt-Buckles.htm

I also wanted to make scrabble tile pendants like I saw on http://www.makeandtakes.com/links/scrabble-tile-pendant-tutorial

Well, I also found a great bottle, old silver flatware, and about 20 old watches.... I think today was my lucky day!

The search is over!

2010-07-16T08:19:00.001-07:00

I've been searching for about a year to find the right case for my

old pins and earrings.

Well, I found it at a yard sale.... $1

However the 1982 wood

was not part of my plan,

so I painted... again.

It is now 8:30am on a Friday,

and I better get my bootie going,

there might be more deals out there.

The way I want to be....

2010-07-15T08:36:00.000-07:00

"Give me a PURE heart-that I may see Thee,
a HUMBLE heart-that I may hear Thee,
a heart of LOVE-that I may serve Thee,
a heart of FAITH-that I may abide in Thee"
-Dag Hammarskjold

The Diamond I Found Today!

2010-07-11T18:53:00.000-07:00

Wow.... Loved this new website. Loved the layout, loved the tutorial.

Did I mention I loved it?

http://www.freckledlaundry.com/

Pizookie

2010-07-10T08:55:00.000-07:00

I’ve learned that if I find a recipe that I like, I should blog about it. If I post it, I know where to find it next time I want to use it. Anyways, it was my girl’s birthday… big 20! YIKES, that makes me officially old. So I decided to make her a pizookie instead of a cake. Here is what I made….
2 1/4 cup flour

1 tsp baking soda

1tsp salt

3/4 cup packed brown sugar

1 package of instant vanilla pudding: small package (3.4 oz) ( I used Coconut Cream Pudding!)

1 cup (two sticks) of butter room temp*

1 tsp. vanilla extract

2 large eggs

1 package of chocolate chips.

preheat oven to 350 degrees.

*if you don't plan ahead ( like me) and don't have your butter at room temp, you can always put your butter in the microwave for a few seconds till it's super mushy.

in a large bowl place your butter, baking soda, salt, brown sugar, vanilla pudding, extract, and eggs.

Mix till creamy.

Gradually add flour.

Keep mixing till all flour is in. add choc chips.

Mush (nice English...ha) in a big pan.

Bake for 15 minutes (keep checking, all ovens bake differently). Do not over bake.

Reheat 10 min before you want to serve so it is nice and warm, serve with ice-cream

Which leads me to the ice cream story....

I went to pick up some at the store. I noticed that all the ice cream containers have become quite small.... and I found a original 1/2 gallon. I laughed when I read what was written on the seal (read for yourself). Really??? It should be the other way around... on NEW containers "new smaller size!"

Can it be...my baby girl TWENTY!

2010-07-05T08:59:00.000-07:00

This is for my special friend, daughter, the one I admire. I can honestly say, I have the greatest daughter in the world!

She is:

beautiful

wise

strong

spiritual

kind

loving

smart

helpful

organized

funny

practical

leader

intelligent

artistic

caring

basically, she is everything I'd like to be!

She only has one downfall.... she likes country music! (just kidding)

I love you girl.... you make smile! I truly have the most wonderful daughter. Happy 20th Birthday.

Life is a really good bowl of cherries!

2010-06-13T18:54:00.000-07:00

Today was a really GREAT day. I haven't always been very positive about our cabin, but after going there today... I'm looking so forward to moving moving there. I was so excited to see our little orchard full of cherries. Who knew that the little red fruit would make me so happy. I really don't mind the big rattlesnake under the tree, the toilet bolted to the floor in the middle of the kitchen, or the bear that poops near the front porch... just give me cherries!

66 Fastback Project

2010-06-04T08:46:00.000-07:00

I really admire my sweet son. He is in the process of restoring an old car that my husband bought him many years ago. Just like his dad... loves old cars and loves restoring them. He is going away to college in a few months. Does this mean it will sit unfinished in my garage forever?

One day... it will be done! I hope.

Last Day of HOMESCHOOL... EVER!

2010-06-03T21:24:00.000-07:00

Today is one of the greatest and saddest days ever! We are officially done with home school... forever. However, I did wake this morning feeling very nauseous... maybe I have another 18 years of home school. I could be the oldest home school mom ever... that wouldn't be good. No, I'm not pregnant!

Well the grading is done, portfolio turned in, and now only graduation. I do like to remind my sweet son that every time he can answer a question on Jeopardy that I was his teacher, and I taught him everything he knows.... seriously.... I don't think I taught him anything, but he learned how well I can NAG. There will be no more phone calls to the principal (dad) because my dear student was playing with his I-pod or texting during his class video.

Two years ago, I was really worried about homeschooling and taking him out of private school. I can honestly say it was the Best thing we have ever done for our son. I think we grew closer to him in the last two years. I think he may not have learned a lot, but he grew more mature and his spiritual walk improved.... isn't that all that matters? yes!

We will miss Mr. McBride (government) but not the English teacher. I almost put the drawings of the English teacher in the portfolio... My dear son was famous for doodling out of boredom during his class.

Goodbye home school.... hip, hip, hooray.... boo-hoo!

Missing in Action this month!

2010-05-23T07:52:00.000-07:00

Yes, I didn't feel like blogging! I was too busy enjoying life. My dear husband and I took a trip back east to Ohio for a pastor's conference. I enjoyed the green and the barns! If only the sky was blue and the sun was out! I did get to experience rain like I've never seen before....that was interesting, and SCARY!

A special treat for a California girl... Canadian geese. We almost had a multi car pile-up. We noticed them, tried to pull over fast, then everyone on the road started honking at us like we were crazy. They are crazy... they take advantage of the cute birds! In fact someone ran one over later that night!

We drove to Niagara Falls on the Canadian side. I was amazed! It took my breath away... I enjoyed it as much as the Grand Canyon. There is a wonderful small town about 10 miles from the falls called Niagara on the lakes, it was so cute. It is an adorable few blocks filled with great stores, antiques,and cute bed and breakfast's everywhere.

The spray from the falls is like rain...hard rain, rain like we don't see in California!

It gently falls over the edge, then the explosion of water begins!

My dream barn!

I had a wonderful time... came home and reality hit me, so I painted the dining room and joined the gym(the scale scared me the day after I got home).

Heaven Squares (toffee, almond, chocolate)

2010-05-21T14:54:00.000-07:00

Heaven Squares... I don't know exactly what they are called, but since I've been trying to watch what I will be eating this next month, and had the stupid idea to make these after seeing on The Martha Stewart Show. I've decided to call them Heaven Squares. I figured I can eat anything I want in heaven and not gain a pound... So there you go! Good thing I've been working so hard at the gym this week... thanks Martha! When my son ate one he said, "OHHHHH, I LOVE YOU".

Ingredients:
13 graham crackers
1 bag (8 ounces) toffee bits
1 1/2 cups coarsely chopped toasted natural almonds
1/2 cup sugar (I used 1/3 cup...it tasted great)
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter (I used one...it was plenty! I'm trying to lose weight)
3/4 cup (4 ounces) bittersweet chocolate, chopped, or chocolate chips
3/4 teaspoon coarse salt

Directions
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line a rimmed baking sheet with foil. Place graham crackers in a single layer on sheet (I broke them in 2 in. squares at this time to avoid having to cut when done), edges touching. Sprinkle toffee bits and almonds over graham crackers.
2. In a small saucepan, bring sugar and butter to a boil over medium-high. Reduce heat and cook at a rapid simmer, swirling pan occasionally, until mixture is syrupy, 2 minutes. Immediately pour over graham crackers. Bake until sugar topping is bubbling, 12 minutes. Remove from oven and immediately sprinkle chocolate and salt over graham crackers. With a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut into 2-inch squares (or break before like I did). Let cool completely on sheet on a wire rack. (Store in an airtight container, up to 1 week.)

The Burlap Craze...

2010-05-02T08:25:00.000-07:00

I see burlap everywhere... and I know exactly what this craze is all about, because I now have a serious addiction. I just can't get enough (isn't that a song?). So to the sewing machine I go...

It started with a tablecloth

Then it was a table runner

I was really happy find a use for the one too many little white roses

that I made out of an old white T shirt.

Then it was the shopping Bag

Next...

hmmm... I have an idea!

Lavender/Lemon Biscotti

2010-04-28T12:29:00.000-07:00

I had bought some culinary lavender from http://lavenderbundle.wordpress.com/and thought I would try some different recipes. My first try was lavender/lemon biscotti. This biscotti has a light blending of lemon and lavender – which makes a great combination. I will package up with cute tags to give to friends, and I will enjoy with hot tea, or for dessert, or maybe for breakfast with my coffee...oh yum!

Lavender/Lemon Biscotti
(You may double the recipe to make extra for gifts)

2 cups flour
1 1/2 tsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. salt

3/4 cup sugar

2 tsp. dried lavender blossoms

2 large eggs

1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled

2 tsp. grated lemon zest

1 tsp. vanilla extract

Lemon Drizzle:
2 Tablespoon fresh squeezed lemon juice

1 Cup Powder Sugar

1 tsp dried lavender blossoms (to sprinkle on top of drizzle)

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

In a small bowl, combine flour, baking powder and salt. Set aside.

In a food processor, combine sugar and lavender blossoms. Process until lavender is finely chopped.

Transfer sugar mixture to a large bowl and add eggs. Beat until thick (about 2 minutes). Add butter, lemon zest, and vanilla and beat until combined.

Slowly add flour mixture and mix with a wooden spoon until well combined. Dough will be soft and sticky.

Take half the dough and place it on a parchment-lined cookie sheet. Shape into a 10-inch long log that is 3 inches wide (I doubled recipe so mine was about 12 inches long, and 5 inches wide…I want big biscotti!). Repeat with the other half of the dough on another parchment-lined cookie sheet.
Bake both logs 20 minutes or until crisp and golden (center will still be soft).

Remove from oven. Reduce heat to 300 degrees F. Cool logs 10 minutes and then slice with a serrated knife into 3/4 inch slices Place slices (cut side up) onto cookie sheets and bake another 15-20 minutes or until crisp and brown.

Remove cookies, let cool. Drizzle with lemon drizzle and sprinkle the 1/4 tsp. lavender on top, let drizzle harden. Store in an airtight container and eat within two weeks. Serve with tea or coffee.

a NEW life for an OLD basket!

2010-04-26T14:46:00.000-07:00

One of my treasures on our girl's trip to the central coast was an old picnic basket that I picked up for a few dollars. It wasn't broke, but very old looking. I thought about turning the piece of junk into a beauty. I wanted a basket to put my "stuff" into for my car (my family makes fun of my things laying around in the car). So I'm going to be organized now!

It was pathetically ugly, with scary clowns inside... they had to go!

I washed with soap and water and let it dry in the sun for most of the day. It needed to get rid of the "old-musty" smell.

I used an cleaner/oil on it to give it life again. BEFORE

AFTER!

(I let it sit in the sun for a while to dry the oil up)

I had this beautiful black paper sitting in a drawer doing nothing... so I used it!

(I have lots of things sitting around doing nothing)

I've been making felt flowers the last few months... so I added one to the handle.

Voila.... my basket!

Remnants Of The Past Show

2010-04-26T08:52:00.000-07:00

Wow... My sweet daughter and I attended Remnants of the Past Show http://remnantsofthepast.com/index.html this last weekend. So many wonderful ideas and treasures to be found. I spent more than I should have... and now have idea's and projects floating in my brain. I can't wait until next year!

Happy 18th Birthday...my sweet baby

2010-04-21T08:07:00.000-07:00

Where did 18 years go??? I'm kinda sad today, as my baby turns 18. The years went so fast which makes me realize that I need to cherish every day! My baby has brought me so much joy. I'm so proud of the man he has turned into.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY my dear little one (who is a foot taller than me)

Another giveaway from tatertots and jello!

2010-04-20T09:01:00.000-07:00

okay... I really want to win #4 necklace, maybe you do too???
visit tatertots and jello blogspot... love that blog!
http://tatertotsandjello.blogspot.com/

PINCH ME... I love this time of year!

2010-04-15T14:59:00.000-07:00

Birds are singing, flowers are blooming, the sun is shining.

I have had the greatest opportunity to see different mothers at work for at least 10 years. I have a small poodle tree next to my front door, which many mother's over the years have called home. The same ole' nest sits in the tree, however it keeps getting taller with every new mom. It is a delight to see her eggs, her babies grow, and then they fly away, which always makes me want to cry. This will be a hard year for me to watch them leave, because I too will watch my baby fly away in a few months.

I'm so glad that God gave us spring. It makes me smile!

so good... so EASY... Blueberry Muffins

2010-04-12T21:01:00.000-07:00

These muffins are the BEST and I love that they are SO easy to make! here we go:

2 Cups Bisquick (low fat works too)

1/3 Cup Sugar

2/3 Cup Milk

2 TBS Oil

1 Egg

3/4 Cup Frozen Blueberries

heat oven to 400.

spray muffin pan with non-stick spray.

Mix all ingredients (EXCEPT BLUEBERRIES) in a bowl until moistened.

Fold in blueberries.

put into pan/bake for 15-18 min or until golden brown.

Cool on wire rack.

Let everyone THINK you are a master chef.

My True and Honest Friend

2010-04-09T09:35:00.000-07:00

Well, taking out the contacts on day two was by far the worse experience in the last 48 hours! I went about it in another fashion, another attitude. I started taking them out and realized that they were NOT going to come out. I was wishing my toilet plunger wasn't so big in diameter. I took on the cat fight attitude. Scratching and pulling! Well, not a great idea on the eye. I think I broke every blood vessel in my eye. I did however get them out!

I looked in the mirror, and my eyes are tearing, I looked a little closer and I notice that my right eye looks crossed-eyed! Is it my imagination from the trauma? I'm thinking I need a shrink! I thought maybe I should investigate if they offer braille classes anywhere local; before I lose my vision from my abuse to my eye.

Well, I teared all night. I didn't even want to wake up this morning because my eyes didn't want to open. Today, my true and honest friend was sitting on the bathroom counter, staring at me, wanting a relationship with me again. I gave in. I thought I should get the glasses on before I go for a whole new look... big white contacts over the entire eye!

The crazy lady and contacts!

2010-04-08T15:03:00.000-07:00

So yesterday I had an appointment to have an eye exam for contacts. I really hate wearing glasses... so I decided it was time. I went in there feeling like a "big girl", so excited... kinda like that special day when I was 12 and my mom let me get my ears pierced. Everything was great, took the exam, spoke with the doctor about pros/cons, etc. Then the horrible moment happened that an assistant would teach me how to put them in my eyes!!!

Well she showed me how to put them on, and I tried, and tried, and tried! After 40 minutes of jamming my finger on my eye, losing the contact somewhere on the table, and being extremely frustrated... I suggested that the assistant should go back to work. I would call her if I needed her help. I heard a gentleman come in to make an appointment, he wanted contacts for the first time. I screamed "DON'T DO IT", then after I heard the lady explain that the appointment needed to be an extra 30 min to train him to put the contacts on... I screamed again, "she's lying, it takes 2 hours". I could hear her laughing at me.

Okay, I'm now almost an hour into putting the contact in my right eye...still. The doctor comes out and is trying to encourage me. My eye lid feels like Rocky Balboa has punched me about 1o0 times. I think I've ripped at least 1/2 of my eye lashes off. I'm frustrated, the assistant is frustrated, and the doctor is frustrated. So I beg and convince the doctor to do lasik surgery that afternoon, because it would be faster than me getting the contacts in. No such luck. She finally put a "cheater" drop in my eye. I think it was super glue. She only offered to put it in the one eye however. She said it will suck the contact to your eye. Sure enough it went in. Okay... now the left eye! Well, needless to say 1 hour 20 minutes, I got 2 contacts in 2 eyes! They explain how to take out and I think okay I can do this. They tell me to leave them in my eyes for 4 hours today.

Four hours later (at home, alone)... I'm trying to take them out. They won't come out. They are stuck to my eye. I feel I can't breathe as I try to pull them off. My eye can't breathe either. I go into a panic mode, I'm going to die. I'm going to be like Helen Keller with only 1/10 of her smarts. I'll never make it in the world. I'm going to be blind, because I will never be able to take them off! I try for a good 40 minutes to take them off. I'm worried now they have been in my eyes 4 hours, 40 minutes. Is that bad? I worried! Scared! I don't feel like a "big girl" anymore. I'm thinking that I maybe should call 911... maybe they can take the contacts out! I take a deep breath and decide I need to get control! I go for it, and decide I will drag them out into the inside corner of my eye. IT COMES OUT! I do the other side, it comes out too! Then for the next 8 hours my eyes hurt like they are scratched. My eye lids look puffy.

Day 2... I'm going to meet my friends for lunch. I give myself an extra 30 minutes to get ready to put the contacts on, which really was NOT enough time. I needed 50 minutes to put them on. I kept thinking... it's in!!! not on my finger, then I'd look in the mirror and see this rubber blob stuck to my 7 little eye lashes (the only ones left from yesterday). I'd get all sad, thinking... it's not in!

Well, it's now time to take them out AGAIN. I may need a good psychologist by the end of this week.

I'm thinking I'll ditch the contacts and buy a pair of really cute shoes!!! Nice shoes always make a woman feel pretty!

Giveaway at The Polka Dot Chair

2010-04-02T08:53:00.000-07:00

I love The Polka Dot Chair! I usually visit daily, and she has the best tutorials!

She is having a giveaway for a new sponsor "Cotton Blossoms" which make the most adorable hats and baby stuff. I'm dreaming of grandchildren already!

easy homemade granola!!!

2010-03-31T13:09:00.000-07:00

If you have walked down the cereal isle of the grocery store, you shouldn't be surprised at how expensive yummy granola is. So while reading my April 2010 copy of Real Simple they had a recipe for making it. So I did! It took about 2 minutes to prep, and only 25 minutes to cook.

Here we go...

4 Cups old-fashioned rolled oats (not quick cooking)
1 Cup sliced almonds

1/2 Cup shredded coconut (I didn't have any, I guess I'll have to make more this week w/coconut)

1/4 pumpkin seeds
1/2 Cup pure maple syrup

2 TBS canola oil

1/2 tsp. Kosher salt

1 Cup dried fruit (cherries, cranberries, raisins,blueberries)

Heat oven to 350. On rimmed baking sheet, toss the oats, almonds, coconut, pumpkin seeds with the maple syrup, oil, and salt.

Bake, tossing once (oops, I did... like 5 times-ha, and it still worked) until golden and crisp, 25-30 minutes.

Add the dried fruit and toss to combine. Let cool.

Granola will keep in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to 3 weeks. Put in mason jar with a cute label... I'm thinking great gift idea for any holiday, birthday, teachers gift, etc.

chalkboard paint addiction!

2010-03-24T08:04:00.000-07:00

I really think I have a chalkboard paint fetish, I've discussed this before, its addicting! I believe you can now buy it in any color now... the possibilities are endless what I can make! I have been using the same $7 can now for over a year, it goes a long way. Anyways, I made signs for the luncheon I had yesterday to state what I was serving.

Super easy to make while watching your favorite TV program. I bought small wood plaques, you really could use any flat surface. I painted the edges white.

I then added the black chalkboard paint and added a stain/glaze around the edges to give it an antique look.

Time for more parties!

Staff Luncheon

2010-03-23T15:27:00.000-07:00

My husband attends a staff lunch every Tuesday, so suggested that we have it at our home. What a joy! He works with such amazing people and I was honored to have them at our home. I love to entertain... cooking, decorating, etc. It gives me a great excuse to make things also... I made a burlap tablecloth and runner and added my little white material roses (that I didn't know what to do with). I also made little signs that let the guests know what they were eating. It was fun, looking forward to the next one!

table centerpieces

The dessert table... yum!

The Art of Bread Making

2010-03-06T16:00:00.000-08:00

My friend Tara from church is the ultimate,master bread-maker. One Sunday before church, she had baked homemade bread for a lunch potluck. Really??? Really!!!! I have a hard time getting ready for church on time, without baking bread. Anyways, if you were the last one in the potluck line, you missed out! I had decided that Jesus must not have served bread like Tara's when he fed the 5000, with 5 loaves, and 12 baskets came back full... because if I was there, my big thigh's would have ran up and ate the left overs in the baskets. Know that I am kidding... we all should know that Jesus is the #1 Bread maker and I know when He serves bread, it is the best for the body and spirit.

Anyways, after everyone was raving on about the bread, Tara decided to offer classes on how to make bread. Well, I attended her second class this month. I had the privilege of learning Whole Wheat Carrot Bread, Soft Pretzels, Oatmeal Bread, and No Knead Bread.

this is Tara... look at what she taught us to make!

Teaching how to knead bread

This is sweet Sarah... she is AMAZING in the kitchen!

I finally know what dough is suppose to feel like!

Adorable Beth! She is so fun.

OH MY.... homemade soft Pretzels!

Fun, fun, fun! I learned how to use the candy thermometer correctly, that you should wash dishes that have flour on them with cold water (not hot), and don't put all the flour in the bowl at once to mix!

It was a great day of fellowship. I'm really excited (my family too) to make bread at home now... my hips are screaming...."Don't do it"

For the love of a tractor and a good man!

2010-03-05T07:20:00.000-08:00

I'm so grateful for my dear husband and his love of tractors. The many years we have lived at our home, I do have the cleanest field in the neighborhood! Really...I'm not bragging Jones family!

I often fail to thank my man for always making our home so nice, for making that dirt look like chocolate frosting! So thank you, thank you. Dear husband, I promise not to nag the next time you want to buy another tractor. Remind me of this blog,,, remind me how happy I am when the weeds disappear in the spring, remind me how incredibly hot you are when you drive your tractor (I'm talking your good looks, not the sweat on your brow)!

Ole Faithful...artichokes!

2010-03-02T07:45:00.000-08:00

I really get excited each spring when I see that those artichokes have been faithful...again! Here is the real kicker. I never planted them from seed, store bought plant, etc. They were brought over from a leaf of someones plant. I shoved it in the ground, and it grew, and grew, and grew. They continues to put a smile on my face and I get big happy artichokes, these plants have grown for about 7 years. Too bad I don't know how to cook an artichoke right! Sometimes I let them overgrow until they turn into a big purple flower. Then ALL the bee's in California come visit them, then I give up ownership and can only view from a distance. At this point, they become poisonous to eat... but are beautiful. I'm so surprised they last through our cold winter.

Easter Garland

2010-03-01T19:48:00.000-08:00

Relevant, Garlands, a Chart and a Giveaway!

Monica at The homespun heart is making garland to earn money for a conference. Visit her blog and place an order today, only $10. Great hostess gift for Easter!

Making Dishmats

2010-02-23T07:57:00.000-08:00

I saw a blog of someone making dish mats. I thought... brilliant! Great idea for those dishes that need to be hand dried or even those wet dishes coming out of the dishwasher. Because of my husbands profession, we get asked to many peoples homes for dinner. I thought, GREAT HOSTESS GIFT. So away I sew... and they are super easy to make!

2 types of fabric. 1/4 yard each (you will have left-overs too)

1 bath towel (I cut to fit finished top piece... each towel can make 2-3 depending on how big you make top piece)

I cut two coordinating fabrics. One 5 inches thick, the other 2.5 inches. (one only shown here)

Pin the two fabrics together, and sew a straight stitch. Sew at 1/4 inch.

Stitch all pieces together with a straight stitch. 1/4 inch seam.

With the towel and fabric, put wrong sides together, pin, and stitch a straight seam around 1/2 inch. Leave part of one end open to turn inside out. Press flat. Pin around piece to hold in place and to also close up opening. Stitch around exterior of piece with a straight seam. Then stitch between rows to give a quilted look and to hold the towel and fabric in place. Trim threads.

I've also made smaller ones with lighter towels for fancy burp cloths. Mom's love them.

For the dishcloths, I found cute dish scrub brushes at IKEA. So I wrap the brush along with a dish soap that matches the fabric and tie them all together with a pretty bow. Great gift for the hostess.

He makes me laugh

2010-02-22T06:14:00.000-08:00

I am not an animal person.... Well, I wasn't. I married a animal person. He raised livestock as a child and wanted our children to experience the work ethic that he had learned. So, the animals started coming in! Pigs, chicken, cattle, horses, dogs, etc. I was always the one in the background.... watching them. I'm a city girl, afraid of anything with 4 legs. My kids have always laughed at me. I admire their ability to work with animals. I've been amazed that they can show cattle 1400 pounds and not be afraid of getting stepped on and dying. I'm the type that I was afraid to go outside wearing red, in fear our steers would charge me... run me over.

Then there was that sweet day almost a year and half ago. I got MY first horse... I mean dog. He just seems like a horse when he comes in the house. He loves me, and that makes me NOT afraid of him. It never fails... I just look at him, smile and then he makes me laugh. I just might become a country girl after all!

I fell in love!

2010-02-17T12:34:00.001-08:00

My dear husband and I were able to visit our daughter yesterday at college. She is such a delight and brings me so much joy. We took her to the mall near her school to have frozen yogurt, which she calls "froyo" (its a college thing).

I knew there was a pet store in the mall, and I wanted to look at puppies. Not that I would buy one from a pet store and get ripped off. However, I saw the cutest baby ever... We stood there with our faces to the glass enjoying and being entertained by the bundle of joy (dogs make you happy when your kids go to college). My husband went to the counter to ask, "how much does he cost?" The clerk said.... "Four Thousand Dollars", then my dear one responded, "does he come with a car?" Then the clerk rolled her eyes at my husband. It was at that moment we decided to get out of the store...fast! He was just way too cute, and way tooooooo expensive. I'd rather look at his picture anyways, and not clean the droppings!

Valentine Cakepops!

2010-02-11T12:53:00.000-08:00

BUSY BUSY BUSY... in about 1 hour I will have completed 20 dozen cakepops for valentines day.

I'm really hoping I DON'T get something full of sugar for the special holiday! In fact, I do know what I want, but how do I hint it to him??? I like practical gifts, like a new wallet from Dillards, it is similar to the one I've been using for the last few years, it snaps totally shut but this one is much larger, I prefer the gray or brown one. I believe it is $34. It is on the stand just behind the d&b counter. (if this isn't a big enough hint... nothing is going to work)

The little things that inspire!

2010-02-09T11:43:00.000-08:00

I went to IKEA last week. It isn't a store that I particularly love... not my style. However, I do occasionally find something I want. Well, for me it was the $20 pitcher that made me think of the cabin. I really don't mind spending $20 if it encourages me. Every time I look at it, I imagine my kitchen done with a cabinet full of pitchers... and that makes me want to WORK!!! So, I now sleep, watch TV, cook, and drive with my new friend, Mr. Pitcher! If it gives me a smile and hope then it is so worth it!

just too busy to blog!

2010-01-29T07:14:00.000-08:00

Well, its been forever since I blogged anything... who has time? But I was thrilled to know that my dad checks to see if I put anything on. I was wondering if anyone ever went to this blog?!?! So, I have one follower... one fan... I feel special.

Well, the cabin has kept us busy. I get discouraged... all the time. We had massive rains and after six months of sealing and chinking logs... the place still leaks! I wanted to break down, cry, kick, scream like a little girl. It didn't help that 20 minutes before I noticed the water in the house, we had to hike up the hill, because our 4 wheel drive truck couldn't make it up our drive-way because of the 1" of snow! Then my dear husband was trying to get the truck down, going backwards, and we broke the mirror right off the truck. NOT A GOOD DAY! So I've decided my new goal is to try to talk my husband into buying a condo in the city. It takes strong, happy, positive people to live in a log house. I've realized I'm not cut out for this, I'm a wimp!

In the mean time, I will try to keep my chin up.

P.S. Hi dad!

The Cabin Continues

2009-09-18T08:05:00.000-07:00

Well, We are a little over 4 months into our project. It is going very slow, but we are really encouraged. The house is almost empty. We still have about 500 feet of tile still to remove. We have now started cleaning logs....so excited!

We were really encouraged this last week, as we met a man in the next town who is restoring another log home that is the same floor plan as ours. He is about 1 year ahead of us in the restoration. He gave us many great tips, and now I'm ready to get busy!

Panettone Bread Pudding...Paula Deen would be proud, 1 stick of butter!

2009-04-28T18:46:00.000-07:00

Some of the greatest inventions ever... Panettone Bread (sweet Italian Bread) and Panettone Bread Pudding! This is great to make for the holiday's when the bread is easy to find. However, it has a long shelf life for bread. Enjoy!
Ingredients
2 pounds panettone, sliced 1 1/2 inches thick
1 stick (4 ounces) unsalted butter
3 large eggs
1 cup sugar
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
Pinch of salt
2 cups heavy cream
One 12-ounce can evaporated milk

Directions
Preheat the oven to 400. Spray a 2-quart baking dish with a non-stick cooking spray . Toast the panettone on the oven racks for 8 to 10 minutes, or until golden; cut into 1 1/2-inch cubes (you will not be able to control yourself from eating a few pieces) and transfer to the prepared baking dish.

In a saucepan, cook the butter over moderately low heat until nutty and the milk solids are brown, 4 to 5 minutes. Toss the butter with the panettone.
In a medium bowl, using an electric mixer, beat the eggs and sugar at medium speed until pale and thick, 2 minutes. Beat in the vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg and salt, then beat in the heavy cream and evaporated milk. Pour the custard over the panettone; let stand for 1 hour, gently tossing now and then, until the custard is absorbed.

Preheat the oven to 400. Bake the bread pudding for 25 to 30 minutes, until the top is golden and the custard is set. Let cool for 30 minutes before cutting into squares.

This pure yumminess can be made a head of time!
The pudding can be refrigerated overnight. Rewarm before serving.
Serve With Vanilla ice cream.

Blog Cabin

2009-04-27T16:40:00.000-07:00

Well, this is what happens when you watch HGTV's show... blog cabin! You end up getting your own because you are so inspired by the work. Do yourself a favor... don't watch the show! I thought I would post pictures of our blog cabin for family and friends to see what we are up to these days. Feel free to comment if you think you have a great idea. I'm not sure if I will use it, but I love feedback and would like some input. In the mean time...let the demolition begin!

he loves to work with us
well, this used to be a bathroom... future kitchen island

I'm picturing a nice big kitchen

one of the reasons we bought it... the most incredible view!

2009-03-21T09:14:00.000-07:00

Aging Clay Pots

2009-03-20T10:34:00.000-07:00

Thank Heaven for the 99Cent store! They had a good size clay pot for under $1...Yea! I'm one that loves the old world charm however so I decided to give them an aged/antique look. Here is what you do:

Collect moss from around your yard (yes, I over water)

Finely chop the moss up and allwo to dry for a couple days

Then mix toghether in a large bucket (I used an old OJ jar)

1 C flour

2 C buttermilk

2 packages active dry yeast

2 TBS corn syrup

1 C dried, crumbled moss

Once the above is mixed together, but the container in full sun for 3 days. When the mixture is good and smelly, brush it generously on the outsides of your clay pots. Then wrap the pots in plastic wrap and put them in the full sun. In two weeks the pots will start to grow mold, and by eight weeks the pots will be nice and furry with moss, looking very old and you will think you live in a villa in Spain...okay, now I'm dreaming!

A New Chandelier

2009-03-10T19:56:00.001-07:00

I'm so excited.... mom came over today and brought me a new painting for the bedroom. I laughed after, my hubby said, "I don't think it's safe to sleep with a chandelier above your head". Actually, this is the ONLY one I would have above my head here in So. Cal!!!

Nana's Painting!!!

2009-03-04T10:55:00.001-08:00

I told my mom, "I need chandelier pictures"!!!

The next day... I had beautiful pictures. I'm anxiously awaiting a red one that she is doing for over my bed...

Thanks mom, I'm so glad you are so talented! I love ya!

I think I love chalkboard paint!

2009-03-03T08:05:00.000-08:00

I needed to repaint a small chalkboard and have lots of paint left over. So... I decided to paint pots and rather than put label stakes in them, I just wrote what I planted on the pot. This paint is so fun, I hope I can refrain from painting the kitchen cabinets!

I needed more garden space!!!

2009-03-02T21:10:00.000-08:00

With the high price of produce I decided that I needed to expand my garden. So My dear husband and son built me a new area to garden. They made irrigation trenches to hold the water and lined a walkway out of flagstone... I ordered seeds and now I'm ready to garden... but it's still too cold!