IN THIS SMALL HOUSE

When everyone was smaller,

2011-07-16T10:07:00.000-07:00

When everyone was smaller than me, I used to tell them, "one day they would all be taller and stronger than me. And then, I'd ask them to open the pickle jar."

One day has arrived...

They grow up, get jobs, their own apartments, and have seperate lives. You know you're in trouble when your youngest son has 2 different dates on a Saturday.

You know you're really in trouble when the reading glasses come one, and the wrinkles no longer disappear with the latest anti-wrinkle face cream. (I'm the only one mean enough to man handle the aligator)

Look at my daughter, she's worried about those wrinkles too.

She still has a few years to worry...

Have a great day.

Almost a Year Ago...

2011-07-13T19:27:00.000-07:00

Almost a year ago I stopped blogging. WOW...it's amazing what can happen over a year. I'm still living in "This Small House," but the small house is feeling bigger and bigger as children move closer to the University so they don't have to travel 15 minutes to school, and perhaps liven up their social life.

I've still checked in with many bloggers, infact tonight we had Baked Macaroni and Cheese from Kimmi's blog, Pink Cookies With Sprinkles. And it was DELICIOUS!

I've seen pictures from your children's weddings....cried at the deaths of loved ones...and happy when you all got to take a little time out, and just enjoy.

In the end...I'm venturing back into this wonderful world of blogging. Posting periodically, and leaving messages rather than just stalk you. I needed the break....I made changes where I needed to, and took risks I never dreamed i would.

Thank you for this past year as you made me smile and sometimes cry. For feeding my family, and letting me quietly live in the background of your lives.

August....

2010-08-01T18:50:00.000-07:00

It's August...and for the first time in a long time I welcome August with open arms. I have always looked to August as a means to an end of summer. I have to admit, it's been a rough summer for me. I've struggled with the loss of my mom, more than I realize I would. Who would have thought that being a middle age woman, Iwould mourn this loss as deeply as I have. But, I have. Not that anyone would know. Not even my family....but I have.

July has been filled with the hectic demands of those not even in my family, and the last week was a struggle as our little ward (church congregation) was smashed with dual tragadies.

We find out we are stronger than we realize when we have to walk blindly into someones life, and attempt to offer them solace....peace....and hope.

But through it all....we smile!! Years ago as I was pulling myself out of my own personal sorrow, my motto was: "Cry when you have to, smile when you can. Just make sure you're smiling more than crying." It got me through, and it will now.

SO...with that, I am ebracing August. I'm going to smile..... Smile..... smile.... Smile..... and it will be a good month.

July brought raspberries galore!! I have literally spent hours in my raspberry patch. And everyday I climbed into that raspberry patch, I was grateful that I would have a little bit of summer in the middle of January. I can't leave you without sharing the EASIEST and I mean EASIEST freezer jam in the world!! This recipe can be used with any fruit......

Pretty, aren't they??? Like I said,

Summer in January.

5 cups mashed fruit

2 cups sugar

3 tblsp. Clear Gel (find at Kitchen Kneads or specialty food store)

1/2 cup Karo syrup

Mash raspberries (fruit), add Karo Syrup

Mix 2 cups sugar and 3 heaping Tblsp. Clear Gel. Slowly add sugar mixture to fruit. MIX THOROUGHLY, put into containers, and freeze!!!

It's WONDERFUL!!!

Enjoy your garden.....Enjoy your week!!

25 Years Later...

2010-07-18T15:09:00.000-07:00

25 years ago... our little car echoed this very same sentiment.... In the very same parking garage at Little America.

We returned after 25 years, to spend a night at the same place we shared our first night together.

The kind young man (I doubt he was even born when we were there 25 years ago) that checked us into our room, happened to be from the same community we are from, and gave us an up-grade!!

17th Floor
Not a fan of heights

I did get used to it and enjoyed the beautiful Salt Lake City skyline.

I love visiting here. I feel like I'm home...that I belong here... whenever I come to the city.

Handsome husband treated me to a very romantic dinner....

I know...

you're jealous.

Is there anything more romantic than "All You Can EAT??!!"

Sunday morning we spent with the Mormon Tabernacle Choir at the taping of the "Music and the Spoken Word."

TIP...arrive just before 8:30 a.m. you can be there for the rehersal, and enjoy them again during the taping of the program at 9:15 a.m..

Ohhhh...the music was BEAUTIFUL!! I got a bit weapy listening to them sing Come, Come Ye Saints. LOVELY!!

(p.s. Glenn Beck was in the audience. GROOVY HU?)

Looking forward to another 25 years with this man!!!

I seriously love this guy.

Put this on a pillow: Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: andtheyshall be one flesh. ~Genesis 2:24

Taste of Summer

2010-07-16T05:07:00.000-07:00

It's like tasting a little bit of summer!!!

Lemon Blossoms, recipe courtesy of Paula Dean. And seriously....they are worth every minute it takes you to make these sweet little things!!

These are what they are supposed to look like. My last batch, I finally got it figured out. I wasn't baking them as long as I needed to. Even not baked long enough, they were DELICIOUS!!

Ingredients

18 1/2 - ounce package yellow cake mix
3 1/2 -ounce pkg. instant lemon pudding mix
4 large eggs
3/4 cup vegetable oil

Glaze:

4 cups confectioners sugar
1/3 cup fresh lemon juice (it took me 2 lemons to get enough juice. USE FRESH LEMONS)
1 lemon zested
3 tablespoons vegetable oil
3 tablespoons water

Spray miniature muffin tins with begetable oil cooking spray. Combine the cake mix, pudding mix, eggs and oil and blend well.

(Below see the gorgeous color!! Happy Yellow!)

Pour a small amount of batter, filling each muffin tin half way. Bake for 12 minutes. Turn out onto a tea towl. (I found if you take a knife and tap the bottom of the pan, they will come out. IF you bake them long enough)

To make the glaze, sift the sugar into a mixing bowl. Add the lemon juice, zest, oil and 3 tablespoons water. Mix with a spoon until smooth.

With fingers, dip the cupcakes into the glaze while they're still warm, covering as much of the cake as possible, or spoon the glaze over the warm cupcakes. (I dipped...much more fun) Place on wire racks with wxed paper underneath to catch any drips. Let the glaze set thoroughly, about 1 hour.

Not quite as gorgeous as the pro herself...Paula Dean. But I'm 100% sure, just as yummy!!

Serve at a garden party, with chicken salad, rolls, chilled pickle spears, fresh fruit and lemonade. LEMONADE TIP...wash a fresh lemon, slice and add to your frozen concentrate lemonade. It adds a tart taste to your drink, and you'll think you're drinking fresh squeezed lemonade.

You'll be nibbling on a little bit of summer.

Put this on a pillow...Loving yourself is not a matter of boasting. It is not a matter of attitude. It is a matter of self acceptance, of noting your qualaties as well as your short comings, and accepting them all. ~author??

Check....

2010-07-11T20:10:00.000-07:00

Visit Hogle Zoo.......CHECK

Saturday I spent a couple hours at the zoo. I loved it so much, I'm going back in August with my kids. (They were all wrapped up in their own things)

Giraffes... Aren't they gorgeous??? I don't know how they

don't fall forward when walking. (I look like I'm in pain. I'm not-or pregnant as far as that goes)

Quite the bird. Which I'm sure could peck a whole through anything. Their was a zoo guide showing the size of an Ostrich's eggs. Talk about laying an egg....

I don't know...for some reason I felt like I could relate with this bird.

I've never believed that we evolve from monkeys....I might have to re-think this concept. Look at me!!! My arms are longer than the female gorilla!! I measured up that's for sure.

EXCUSE ME....DOES ANYONE HAVE A DUMP TRUCK OF VASELINE INTENSIVE CARE LOTION??? Seriously, I wanted to paint her toenails!

Enjoyed lunch at the Blue Plate.

Interesting concept this place. Put up some cinder blocks, paint it blue...open for business.

My take on the whole thing....I liked it!! There was every type of person and lifestyle there. And being a people watcher, I was in heaven!! HOWEVER...if you're in a hurry this isn't the place for you. It's low key, and easy going.

My nephew Darren sporting his suspenders and fancy hat - enjoyed a vegetarian burger the size of his face! My sister ordered the Vegan burger. None of that sissy stuff for me....

GIVE ME MEAT!!!

Turkey Avocado with Radish Sprouts. Shoestring french fries and FRY SAUCE!!! If you don't want your pickle..... ME, ME, ME!!!

YUMMY!!!!!

What's on my mind this week? Food for thought....

The Savior emphasized love and unity and declared that we would be known as His disciples if we have love one to another....

The Savior's charge to His disciples to love one another-and the dramatic and powerful way He taught this principle at the Last Supper-is one of the most poignant and beautiful episodes from the last days of His mortal life.

He was not teaching a simple class in ethical behavior. This was the Son of God pleading with His Apostles and all disciples who would come after them to remember and follow this most central of His teachings. How we relate and interact with each other is a measure of our willingness to follow Jesus Christ. ~Elder Quentin L. Cook

Enjoy your day!

Put this on a pillow: "Men are that they might have joy - not guilt trips!" ~Russell M. Nelson

OH THE PLACES WE'LL GO AND THE THINGS WE'LL SEE

2010-07-08T06:01:00.000-07:00

"First it begins inside your heart. Something moves.

Then opens.

Then frees itself.

And now you feel a rhythm breaking its long silence.

This is going to be good."

The perfect quote for my summer journal. Not a lot of vacation days to use for the summer...I'm organizing myself, setting goals, and trying to enjoy what I can on my spare minute.

It's the back of this adorable notebook that somewhat shared how I was feeling the day I found this cute little book . The very day I was trying to decide how I could squeeze summer into not much time.

"It is here whre she must begin to tell her story."

In the back of my summer of 2010 notebook I made my summer reading list. And on another page, my summer goals.

*Get a Pedicure *Visit the zoo *go on a hike *Enjoy a picnic or two *Take more pictures *Enjoy my surroundsing & the people in it *Go on a bike ride at least once a week *Learn 2 new things about each member of my family *Float on the Bear River *Read the Book of Mormon *Diligently work on my Personal Progress *Love *Spend a weekend with my sisters *Drive to Vernal *Eat at the Buritto or Hog dog vendor in Ogden with my son *Ride the train from Ogden to Salt Lake

The trick is to document as much of this summer as I can. It helps me realize what a good summer I'm having without much vacation time.

I'm enjoying my bike rides. I take my camera and try to be more aware of the smells, beauty, and people that I see.

Come on...... take a spin with me.

OH WAIT.... Yes there is an incredibly handsome man and his dog following us!

Seriously....can you believe this???

This beautiful sight is only a mile or so west of my home.

East of my home, it's hay hauling season....makes my eyes water and nose run. This is one of many big green tractors that will pass us as we pedal along.

I know...really..... two handsome men following us!!

Just north west of my home we see such a contrast in the mountains. To the south they are majestic and tower over our little valley. To the north, they are more a rolling hill, but still have beauty all their own.

There are many more places to see on our bike rides. However when you ride with me you have to pedal slow. We won't be able to see it all in one day.

Put this on a pillow: Life, believe, is not a dream So dark, as sages say; Oft a little morning rain fortells a pleasant day. ~Charlotte Bronte, 1846

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

It's fixed....It's fixed...IT'S FIXED!!! No thanks to Extreme Computers, But a big thanks to our internet provider. After paying $150 to the before mentioned business....Ferris came to our house, took our computer box thing, took it to his shop, had the problems diagnosed, ordered parts, had them installed brought the computer back to our house. Hooked it up to make sure it worked properly and only charged us for the parts!!!! THANK YOU!!!!!!!!

So much has happened this past month or so.....

My son received his Eagle Scout award.

My daughter graduated from high school.

And my sweet mom passed away . This has just broke my heart!! My mom was a quiet, petite lady. She didn't like attention or a lot of fanfare. However, was always happy to be remembered. She passed away at the age of 72.

I had just talked to her only a couple hours before while I was at work. We were planning on how we would hook up at my daughters graduation. She rarely used her cell phone, but would take it with her so I could call her and tell her where we were sitting.

Being busy at work that day, our conversation was brief. I had to hurry. When I hung up the phone I thought to myself, "mom sounds tired. I hope she gets a nap before this evening." I had a sinking feeling to call her back and ask if she was feeling okay. I didn't make that call. That was the last time I spoke to her. I'll never make that mistake again. I won't rush my loved ones. Busy or not....

My mom suffered a massive heart attack while walking into my daughters high school graduation.

I spent the night of her death at my childhood home with my dad. I touched the white sweater she was wearing and looked into her pocket. There was her cell phone with a little slip of paper that said "Sandra's cell phone number."

A day hasn't gone by over this past month that I haven't thought "I need to call my mom." Hear or see something funny and think "I need to call mom and tell her about this." While shopping I'll come upon something that my mom would like, begin to take the item off of the shelf and realize it isn't necessary.

I miss my mom.

BUT....it's all good. Our Heavenly Father loves us. He designed a plan that affords us to be together forever with the people we love. And for this I am ever grateful.

Looking forward to finally being able to catch up with all of you.....

Have a great day.

Put this on a pillow: Families are Forever!!!

BROKEN....

2010-05-03T11:30:00.000-07:00

OH MAN
MY COMPUTER IS BROKEN!!! I haven't been able to visit anyone, or use it for days now. We've tried fixing it ourselves, and realize.....NOT QUALIFIED.

I'm taking it to the computer doctor right now.

I'll see you ladies hopefully in a couple days!!!!

KEEP SMILING!

LAUGH - LAUGH - LAUGH!!!

2010-04-23T22:00:00.000-07:00

SO FUNNY!!!! DeAnna posted this on her facebook, and I can't stop watching it. SERIOUSLY, I laugh harder each time!!

Watch the reaction of her friend. She tries to help.... then can't because she to is laughing.

KSL NEWS....and my BIG Toot in the Air

2010-04-22T09:57:00.000-07:00

I've spent "BIG" amount of my time working this week. Thanks to KSL Channel 5 for visiting our 215th home celebration, they were able to focus on how "BIG" my life really is.

Visit this site, and note.....me.....with my "BIG" toot in the air, as I'm bending over and taking off my shoes so I can go into the home and take pictures of the family! OH MY WORD!!!!!!!

ksl.com - Program helps families finance homes by helping build them

What a shot hu?

DIET BEGINS.......monday. Or maybe not. Maybe this "BIG" Toot in the air can be my trademark!!

HAVE A GREAT DAY!!!!

Did You Feel THAT????

2010-04-15T20:40:00.000-07:00

SHAKE-RATTLE-n-ROLL
In my Small House I have a door that stays open all the time. It rests in the back of a corner wall. I hang a quilt over the door with a plaid chair that sits in front of the door. Sounds weird I know, but it's a small house, and I need an extra chair. ANYWAY......I was sitting in that chair this evening, having a little rest while the washer was running, and I was preparing to head out to a pres. meeting. The door started knocking against the wall and chair. As I turned to see why on earth the door was moving back and forth my eye caught a wall that was swaying. My stomach dropped, and I was immediately dizzy. What???? I thought....and in that same split second it dawned on me , OH MY WORD AN EARTHQUAKE!!!!

Okay...I smile thinking about this and what a dork I am, it took some courage (because I knew they would never let me live this down) but I finally told my family......I quickly stood under the door jam. OKAY...so by the time I got under the door jam, the earthquake stopped. Only to find out later that you don't stand under the door jam anymore. You do the triangle thing on the floor. I must have looked stunned when Deserae told me this. Because all I could think of was "How on earth do I get this body into the shape of a triangle?"
AND "how on earth is that going to save me from an earthquake?" I do understand this process now. And I have demonstrated it to my kids.

TIS CLEARANCE SEASON. And I need spring clothes. I seem to have less spring/summer clothes than winter. However, I don't want to spend allot of $$$ on new clothes.

Found odd shirt on clearance. Long sleeve I know. I plan on making it into a 3/4 length sleeve however, I have recently found that my sewing machine has bit the dust. WAH!!! Shirt needs a little sprucing.

I know....GREEN??? I don't have anything green, and I think it's worth a try.

Made small rosettes for the collar.....
(A little time consuming. Make while watching American Idol. Then you don't feel so bad about sitting there for so long)

Same fabric.....will make a belt (WAH!! WAH!!) Add a rosette.
(Not having a sewing machine is killing me. I can't afford one right now!!! WAH SOME MORE)

Finished project.
Sorry but there is no way I'm modeling this for you. Just pretend my waist is this small.

I really think it's gong to be fun to wear! My daughter told me not to worry about cutting off my sleeves and hemming them with my NOT SEWING MACHINE...."just roll them up" she says. AH, HA, good thinking......

Put this on a pillow: If only we'd stop trying to be happy we could have a pretty good time.

2010-04-14T07:25:00.000-07:00

Ever have a rotten day? For me.... Yesterday was a rotten day. In the office I work, there is a fellow that when something bothers him he takes it out on people (usually me). Talk about moody! All the while you're trying to figure out what on earth you did wrong. Well....enough of that!!!

I can't stay put out or grumpy. I work with the public they don't deserve grumpy. At my desk I have a little help.

On my desk by my computer monitor is my "Happy Thoughts" frame. It's actually just a plastic frame that can fit two pictures. I decked it out a bit and added a picture of some of my family, and onthe opposite side a small note pad that I had quotes and good thoughts.

When something arises that cramps my style, I flip the pages to the perfect thought and have it glaring at me all day. Yesterday I did a lot of flipping!!!!

Flipping through you might read....

I am lost, I have gone to find myself. If I return before I get back, please have me wait."

Flip: For behold are we all not beggars? Do we not all depend upon the same being, even God, for all the substances which we have for both food and raiment, and for gold and for silver, and for all riches, which we have of every kind? ~Mosiah 4"19

Flip: The unselfish effort to bring cheer to others will be the beginning of a happier life for ourselves. ~Hellen Keller

Flip "For he that will love life, and see good days, Let him refrain his tongue from evil, and his lips that they speak no guile: ~1 Peter 3:10

MY favorite "BE UP BEAT" quote is framed and sits on a file.... It reads,

"Most foks are about as happy as they make up their mind to be. ~Abraham Lincoln

Really, isn't this the truth??? We decide how to react, over react, or not act at all. Being happy is simply up to us.

Do you have a favorite quote??? Pass it on....I might be able to add it to my get me through the day happy thought list!! hahahahaha

Put this on a pillow: THIS TO SHALL PASS!!!!!

The Wierd and Wacky Found at the INLAWS!

2010-04-10T19:54:00.000-07:00

You're tired, half asleep....NO WAIT, you are asleep! When you have the sudden urge to blow your nose. You turn on your bedside lamp, reach for a tissue......

AUGH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Even the bathroom offers no privacy.....

You can't even wash the dishes without finding hair on your plates!!

And no longer can you sit quietly and sneak that piece of candy from the candy machine when nobody's watching!!!

Ever feel like no matter where you turn....somebodies always watching??????

Put this on a pillow..... And since you're the one being watched, I'll get the diamonds, you get the car. "James Bond....Diamonds are Forever"

Whatever provoked my mother in-law to make this....I'll never know. I think she has a pink one to! Pink hair that is!!

p.s. Good to be back!! Enjoyed visiting with blogging friends last week in SLC!!! Had such a good time with Cherie, Bakow Babble - Ann, An Old Fashioned Girl, Heather, Field of Heather and Connie I Started Out As A Child. ALL ON MY SIDEBAR!! LOVED IT!!!! Thanks ladies!

HAVE YOU GOT YOUR GREEN ON.......FLORA?

2010-03-09T07:53:00.000-08:00

Have you got your green on??? OH..... at our Small House you better have it on loud and clear.

When my children were small, I always explained that on St. Patricks day, if you didn't have green on you'd get pinched. I made sure that everyone had green on before going to bed, or they would be pinched in the morning. THEY LOVED THIS!!!

They watched for people without green, and they weren't afraid to give someone a little squeeze.....

Just ask our poor bishop who shared this story with me.

My youngest son who is now 15 had to have been about 4 or 5. St. Patricks Day just happened to have fallen on a Sunday. Of course we went to church wearing our green.....

BUT SOMEONE FORGOT TO WEAR HIS!!!!

This particular Sunday our bishop just happened to have been in the restroom with my young son. Poor bishop standing helplessly at the urinal..... When a blonde haired, bright blue eyed boy innocently walks up to him and states......

"YOU DON'T HAVE ANY GREEN ON!!!"

YES...at the urinal our bishop was pinched!!

Our sweet bishop promptly left the restroom, went quickly to the library, found a piece of green paper, and stuck it in his suit coat pocket for all to see.

GET YOUR GREEN ON FLORA!!!

You'll be pinched!

(I've been asked to share how I made the rosette's. I'll do that soon!)

Put this on a pillow: If at first you don't succeed, maybe failures your thing! (HAHAHAHAHAHA)

Saturday's Dollar Store Deals....

2010-03-06T21:18:00.000-08:00

Have I really not posted since last Sunday???? OH MY WORD. Basketball season is officially over as of TODAY! As sad as I am that it's over, it does free up a little bit of time. YEA!!!

This week dollar store deals make me soooooo HAPPY!!!!

I really like make-up!! Especially lipstick and lip gloss. But really, all make-up makes me happy. HOWEVER, it can be a bit pricey. I purchase my foundation and blush from the Dillards beauty counter, but everything else I try to find the best deals I can. AND THAT INCLUDES THE DOLLAR STORE......

This week at the dollar store.......OH HAPPY DAY

LOREAL eyeshadow!!!!

I get so darn excited when I find brand name items hanging on the little pegs down the beauty aisle!!

Maybelline Lip stick, and Sally Hansen lip gloss.

My lip gloss is no where to be found. Hmmmm......teenage daughter maybe???? I'll pick my battles, it's only a buck!

Not even the toes were left out this week. Again, Maybelline!

Where do you find your make-up deals??? THIS WEEK......at Dillards, a GIFT WITH A PURCHASE!!! When I do have to purchase something from their beauty counter, I ALWAYS make sure there's a gift with a purchase!! Makes me feel better about spending that much so I can try to cover up these wrinkles!!!

Have a great day!!! Enjoy your Sunday.

It Says "Low-Fat Doughnuts"????

2010-02-28T19:35:00.000-08:00

Did you get to the grocery store this weekend? Did you see the Family Circle Magazine staring at you as you stood in line to check out??? If so, WHAT CAUGHT YOUR EYE???

UMmmmm..... Low-Fat Doughnuts maybe???

Low fat doughnut...how could I refuse??

BUT ARE THEY GOOD????

You need a doughnut pan. I looked at Bed, Bath and Beyond. Not only could I NOT find one there, the young girl I asked for help from didn't have a clue what I was talking about.

Found the pan at a little cooking specialty shop. "Love to Cook, Kitchen Kneads." And the cute young girl I asked for help from, new exactly what I was talking about.

I wish I would have purchased two.

Here's the attempt....of making Low Fat Doughnuts.

Shhhhh...Of course they really aren't low fat, just lower in fat than those you purchase.

I'll share the chocolate recipe. There's also a recipe attached to the pan when you purchase one.

Chocolate Cake Doughnuts

1 cup all purpose flour

1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

1/2 tsp. baking soda

1/4 tsp. salt

1/2 cup low-fat buttermilk

(If you don't have buttermilk use 1 cup milk add 2 tblsp. lemon juice. Let sit for 5 minutes)

1/2 cup packed dark brown sugar

1 egg

4 tsp. unsalted butter, melted

1 tsp. vanilla extract

Heat oven to 325 degrees. Coat doughnut pan with nonstick cooking spray.

In large bowl, whisk flour, cocoa, baking soda and salt. In small bowl, whisk buttermilk, sugar, egg, butter and vanilla until smooth. Add milk mixture to flour mixture; whisk until blended and smooth.

Spoon batter into large reuseable plastic bag. Cut off a corner and squeeze batter into prepared indents,

about 2/3 full. Smooth tops. Bake at 325 fro 13 minutes, until doughnuts spring back when lightly pressed. Cool in pan on rack 3 minutes. Then carefull turn out directly onto rack to cool.

Frosting for chocolate-frosted doughnuts:

Combine 1 cup confectioners sugar, cocoa (whatever your heart desires. Mine desires allot), 2 tablespoons of milk. Stire until smooth. Dip cooled doughnuts into bowl and allow excess frosting to drip back into bowl.

Transfer to rack. Top with sprinkles, coconut or mini chips if desired.

Here's what you get....... TA-DA!!!

The other doughnuts are white cake doughnuts dipped in cinnamon and sugar while still warm. YUM!!!

And yes...they passed the "WE LIKE" test. Especially the chocolate. Why I wish I would have purchased 2 pans is because they are really fun to make, and I think we'll make these with the Cub Scouts this Wednesday.

TEENAGER TALK..... Teenagers already have a tendancy to talk fast, and run their words together. Add braces, and very large springs on each side of your mouth and this is the conversation you get....

He said......"The Olympics are over." I thought he said....."Have to find Rover."
My question....."Who's Rover?"

Have a GREAT WEEK!!!!

Saturday Dollar Store Deal....

2010-02-27T14:58:00.000-08:00

I love a good thing...especially when it's a great deal and useable. I get quite a bit of use out of the dollar store. You never know what you might find each week.
I think it would be so fun to work there and unload the boxes. Every shipment would be a surprise!

And the fact that it's a buck makes me HAPPY!

I'm setting aside Saturday as my dollar store blog post day. What's good....what's not.....??? I'll let ya know.

Today's DOLLAR STORE DEAL is definitely GOOD!

Who doesn't like anything that says Pillsbury on it, and Vanilla Sugar Cookie included in that Pillsubry????

I found Pillsbury Vanilla Sugar Cookie Home Fragrance.

And I'm tellin ya, this smells so good.

(I know....pictures could be better, but I'm in a hurry, and I think you get the idea)

Spray it on your sheets.... and you can dream you're eating sugar cookies and not gain a pound!!! I also like to spray it on my shower curtain.

Dollar Tree....That's where I found these wonderful sprays. They would make nice "stop by little somethings." ("stop by little somethings" are what I take when I stop by and visit women in our church. I usually don't make an appointment, so the least I can do is take them a little something)

They smelled so good, I'm goin back for more!

ENJOY YOUR SATURDAY!!

Day Old Deals.....Still Fresh

2010-02-25T18:26:00.000-08:00

"Great Harvest"!! Doesn't that just bring happiness to your heart and make your mouth water? If you don't know what Great Harvest is...It's a bakery franchise that is WONDERFUL!

Here's a Great Harvest tip!! Go early......all the day old baked items are wrapped the night before in plastic wrap, set so cute on the counter, and are HALF OFF!! YEP.....HALF OFF!!!
Still fresh, you don't even know the difference!

3x3" - 1" thick brownies

FOR A $1.00

If you ask, they'll give you their signature brown bag to put them in. Punch holes, add raffia and ribbon.... A great treat for a friend or neighbor!!

Chocolate, Cheap, Dealicious.....HEAVEN!!

Now go make someones day. OH....and get one for yourself. At that price, get 2 for yourself!

Put this on a pillow: To keep friends, always give your candied opinion.

A Little Cotten Linen....

2010-02-23T20:57:00.000-08:00

I love cotten linen. I know Mary at Material Mary (on my side bar) would know what this fabric is officially called. EITHER WAY... I've used it for years on a bazillion projects. And I just love it.

The last time I had time to hit the DI (thrift store), I found this HUGE piece of fabric. I was so darn happy. I started cutting, ripping, tearing.....

Whipping up these rosette pins is a super easy project that you can take and make while waiting for a child in the car..... or a basketball game to start.... or dance lessons to finish.... And they are cute to boot.

I love them with black...

Just ignore the middle aged woman, and focus on those cute pins!!

Add a rosette pin to an old cotten linen pillow, AND CUTE....

I'm a HUGE scarf lover. I've enjoyed wearing scarfs long before scarfs were the thing.... I like them to make a statement. WHY NOT A COTTEN LINEN SCARF.....???? I like the bulky messy look.

This wonderful stack of cotten linen is going to go a long way..... HURRAY!!!

Put this on a pillow: Bring a shout of joy to your own corner of the world today.

HEALTHY????

2010-02-21T07:45:00.000-08:00

The tallys are in for our "Get Healthy Challenge" and the highest scores are Kristen who has a private blog came in first place & Connie from I Started Out as a Child came in a close second. Kirsten already knows what her prize is, which I shared at the beginning of the challenge, and Connie, I have a little something for you to!! SO ladies please email me your address' so I can get these in the mail. smallhouse19@yahoo.com

NOW...that we've got our Healthy Eating out of the way (just kidding) I've got quite a brownie recipe to share. I found this recipe about a week before Valentines day on the Crafting Chicks Blog. THES BROWNIES ARE DELICIOUS!!!!! I've made them 3 times since. They are crackley crispy on the top and nice and soft in the middle! No frosting necessary!! SERIOUSLY...NO FROSTING NEEDED! (can you tell I'm a bit excited about these brownies?)

Mom's Brownies

(NOT MY MOM, HERS)

1 1/2 cups butter

4 cups sugar

8 eggs

(YES YOU READ RIGHT....8 EGGS. It's worth it though)

2 cups clour

1 1/4 cups cocoa powder

1 tsp. salt

2 tsp. vanilla

walnuts are optional (we opted NOT to use walnuts)

Cream butter and sugar. Add the remaining ingredients in order. Bake in a greased 13x18" pan (c00kie sheet) at 325 degrees for 40 minutes. (mine didn't need baked quite that long though)

EAT AND ENJOY!!!!!

Put this on a pillow: Keep the Sabbath day holy. You do not have to shop on Sunday. Let this day be a day of meditation, of reading the scriptures, of talking with your families, and of dwelling on the things of God. If you do so you will be blessed. ~Pres. Gordon B. Hincley

Stopped in my Tracks...

2010-02-19T05:42:00.000-08:00

It stopped me in my tracks yesterday. I'm just doing a little shopping at Lees Market Place, and there sat Oprah in the most GORGEOUS closet you could ever find on the cover of her magazine! It looks as though Oprah's have a garage sale. OKAY....Oprah could never have a garage sale. She's fancy enough to have an auction for the "Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy" though. She's always doing good things! I almost purchased her magazine just so I could stare a little longer at this CLOSET!

I couldn't help but wonder what a vast difference her clothes closet is compared to mine......

Gorgeous hu?????

MINE....and this is the only part of my closet I'll show you!!! Ann...you would be so ashamed of my closet!! OH DEAR....I think I know what I'll be doing this Saturday.

Is this dress not GORGEOUS?? Of course, I'd have to throw on a t-shirt under neath, which would ruin the entire look! But seriously, what a pretty dress. She wore this when she won an Emmy in 1994.

Any takers???? Hey this cute denim jumper saw many a Sharing Times in the early 90's, and then crossed the plains. OKAY....joined me in Wyoming on a pioneer treck with our youth in our ward (church). To the highest bidder, I'll even throw in the plaid bloomers!

Look at these shoes!!! I think I've heard that Oprah has a large foot like me. Maybe we could arrange a trade?!! Man this woman has great taste!!

But wait....I have bright and colorful lurking in my closet to!! I didn't wear this at the Emmy's but I did wear it at a Daddy Daughter Date Luau. (yes you read right...daddy daughter date. I'm a very good sport) It's bright....happy....charming......

OKAY...here's something worth crowing about. I WON A GIVEAWAY at "MAKE IT WORK MOM"!!!!!! (she's on my side bar) I was soooo HAPPY to find out I won this very cute, charming, adorable necklace. I've even received compliments when I wore it!!!

THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU!! Head on over to her blog and say hello! You'll be so glad you did.!!

All proceeds from this auction will go to "Get Sandra to Florida Fund." HAHAHAHAHA

WHAT'S IN YOUR CLOSET????

Put this on a pillow: The loving are the daring. ~Bayard Taylor

I'm SO BUGGED!!!!

2010-02-17T20:49:00.000-08:00

BUGGED~ I AM SO BUGGED. I have lost the cord that goes from my camera to the computer. I've looked for it for OVER a WEEK now!

I won a giveway....YEP I DID...And I want so badly to share what I won. I was so darn excited to get it!!!!!!!

Valentines day came and went, I even have ideas on my camera to share. HA....not going to happen.

IF YOU HAVE POINTS FROM OUR GET HEALTHY CHALLENGE EMAIL THEM TO ME
smallhouse19@yahoo.com I'll announce the winner of that challenge on Saturday.

I'm just going to bite the bullett, head to Best Buy after work tomorrow and purchase another cord. AUGH!!!!!!

We did have our scheduled home basketball games today. WOW....I've been a basketball fool. AND I'VE LOVED EVERY BIT OF IT! I NEVER THOUGHT I'D HEAR ME SAY THAT.

HAVE A GREAT DAY!!!!!
Sandra

HELLO LADIES...

2010-02-08T08:26:00.000-08:00

HELLO BLOGGING LADIES....

I realize I'm a week behind, and look forward to this evening when I can catch up and share a few different things. IN THE MEAN TIME....

If you joined me on the "Get Healthy" kick I've been working on, send me your points.
smallhouse19@yahoo.com Don't panic if you didn't do as well as you wanted. I didnt' either. BUT....it helped me change my habits a little bit. It didn't do much for my exercise program though. Maybe after basketball.

HAVE A GREAT DAY...
and see you all tonight!!

It's Not that I CAN'T COOK.....

2010-02-01T05:14:00.000-08:00

It's not that I can't cook, it's just that I don't like to. OR rather didn't like to until Carl came into my life.....(scandal. Carl is not my husband)

For the past 3 maybe 4 years, Ive needed a new oven/stove. It baked to hot, and had 1 1/2 working burners. If I pounded on one of the burners it worked half way. Thus, the 1/2.

We have a gentlemen that lives down the road from us who refurbishes washers and dryers. There is a high end furniture and appliance store in Salt Lake City that calls him when they have a bundle of used appliances. He picks them up refurbishes them, and sells them. Needless to say he stays very busy doing this.

Last summer he received a stove with his bundle of washers and dryers. He doesn't usually, if ever get stoves. He specializes in washers and dryers. SO....he thought, "who should I give this stove to??" YEP...you heard it GIVE! He thought of me. He called me, told me that he thought I might could use this stove and asked me to come pick it up.

I'm not the best receiver of service. I himmm---hawed around with this idea. Felt kind of silly, but really, really wanted a new oven. SO, I swallowed my pride and picked up my new oven.

It was in MINT condition.

The following Sunday he caught me in the hall, and mentioned, I might want to know where the stove came from. He said that the owner of the furniture appliance store told him, that a few years ago, Carl Malone (UTAH JAZZ) was remodeling the basement of his home. And was upgrading all his appliances. The oven in our home came out of Carl Malones home. This was the oven he was upgrading.

YEP....this is Carl. As named by my sister.

Could it really have been Carl Malones? Oh. we'll never really know....but we're sticking to this story.

Apples are so darn cheap lately, We've been livin large on apples. Some are beginning to get a bit soft. What to do with those on the edge apples??

Apple Cookies......

In a large bowl cream together:

1/2 c. shortening

1 1/3 c. packed brown sugar

1 egg

Sift Together:

2 c. unsifted all lpurpose flower

1 tsp. baking powder

1/2 tsp. salt

1 tsp. cinnamon

1/2 tsp. nutmeg

Add 1/2 of the dry ingredients to creamed mixture. Stir in:

1 c. shopped walnut (I didn't do this)

1 c. chopped raisins (we're not raisin cookie lovers. Didn't do this either)

2 c. finely chopped apples

Mix well. Add remaining dry ingredients. Mix well. Drop by tsp. on cookie sheet and bake in your preheated CARL for 9 to 12 minutes. 375 - 400 degress. (depending on your oven) Frost while warm.

I quickly whipped up a little cream cheese frosting and dabbed on some of the cookies.

OH MY WORD....These are YUMMY!!!

Put this on a pillow: Happiness is something that comes into your lives through doors we don't even remember leaving open. ~Rose Wilder Lane

2010-01-26T07:55:00.000-08:00

Until last night, this was sitting on my mantel....

Along with other Christmas scattered throughout. It's time to show my Small House a little L-O-V-E!!

Poor Flora....

She's been so neglected. Even during the Christmas Holiday, she was a lady with no style.

Every girl needs her accessories

A little vintage bling....

And to be surrounded by pretty things...

OKAY....I had to show you the cute little berries and hearts that surround the wreath. And they sparkle. I got the biggest kick out of them. It's not hard to make me happy.

It's a start for poor Flora.

I just love my little Flora. Everyone...family, husband, children, friends thought I was crazy when I purchased her. She made me smile.

I was pregnant with our fourth child. There was a 10 year difference between our third child and this pregnancy. I found out at 4 1/2 months that this sweet baby was going to die at birth. It's incredibly HARD to carry a baby to die. Needless to say, depression snuck in over the 4 months I carried her. I was quite sad.

At this point of my pregnancy I found it easier to hibernate in my home. SEE....I was hitting 40, and women my age were sending missionaries off, not having babies. I still live in the same community that I've grown up in. So imagine everyones surprise when they'd see that I was pregnant. Of course they'd be excited and ask when I was due...and then I'd have to explain. It began to take its tole on me mentally. So staying home was the best option.

My husband was out and about one Saturday morning and came upon an antique yard sale. Knowing I'd get a kick out of it, he zipped back home to get me.....and I just wandered.

I found Flora. as I said before SHE MADE ME SMILE! I've had her now for 4 years, and we call her Flora. I'll ask the kids to dust around Flora, or make sure they sweep under Flora. At times their friends have asked "What's that?" And they'll respond...."That's Flora."

Her previous owners told me that she was used to make dresses for the old "Golden Green Balls." This is what they used to call youth dances way back when. HOWEVER...they were much more fancy then what we offer. The kids wore formals, and goregous dresses...... Flora has been around!

Put his on a pillow: A smile confuses an approaching frown. ~Author Unknown

Friday....

2010-01-22T08:22:00.000-08:00

Thump.... thump....cheer....cheer.......

Anyone that knows me, knows that watching 6 basketball games in a week is ALLOT! I'm the chick that doesn't own sweats, wears tennis shoes maybe 3 times a year, and ocassionally buys cheap tickets to the Jazz game for my boys, I tag along to watch the people.

As of today, I'm a basketball goin, quiet cheering mom.

Three of the games I attended were last Wednesday in Brigham City, Utah. First the Freshman game to watch my son. Then I sat through the JV game so that I could watch my daughter cheer during the following Varsity game.

SERIOUSLY, this is all you need to know about basketball......and you to can be a basketball crazy lady as I have become. (Crazy lady that sits quietly on the side and sometimes hollars "GO NELSON!")

Basketball players move a ball on a court by dribbling, passing, and shooting.
Points are scored when a player shoots the ball through the hoop.
A basket counts as either two or three points, and free throws count one point each. The team scoring the greater number of points in the allotted time wins the game.

"I've got spirit yes I do.....I've got spirit how bout you?"

The end.....

All I know, is I'm in dire need of a craft day. And then on to next week for 6 more games.

GOTTA LOVE IT THOUGH!!

Put this on a pillow: When I was young, I never wanted to leave the court until I got things exactly correct. My dream was to become a pro.-- Larry Bird

Is it Just Me?? "Get Healthy" Prize....

2010-01-18T15:51:00.000-08:00

OKAY...is it just me, but..... does this time of year just do a number on you? It might be the after Christmas melt down. You have a month where you don't think...you're just on auto piolet. THAN BAM..... It's January!! OR....maybe it could be that I live in a part of Utah that has the worse air quality in the ENTIRE 50 states.

Last week did me in. Then....as I was climbing out of the funk I was in, I realized I have so MUCH to be thankful for. And watching all that was going on in Haiti, I knew I had to bounce out of this whatever I was in.

Found this paper that I must have recieved as a hand-out at one time, at one meeting or another, and it got me thinking. THIS WEEK besides trying to "GET HEALTHY" I would add this to my new routine.....

SPEND A MOMENT EVERYDAY THINKING OF SOMEONE TO THANK

~Don't Sweat the Small Stuff...and it's all small stuff, by Richard Carlson.

This simple strategy,which may take only a few second to complete, has long been one fo the most important habits I have ever engated in. I try to remember to start my day thinking of someone to thank. To me, gratitude and inner peace go hand in hand. The more genuinely grateful I feel for the gift of my life, the more peaceful I feel. Gratitude, then, is worthy of a little practice.

If you're anything like me, you probably have many people in your life to feel grateful for: friends, family members, people from your past, teachers, people from work, someone who gave you a break, as well as coutless others. You may want to thank a highter power for the gift of life itself, or for the beauty of nature

As you think of people to be grateful for, remember that it can be anyone - someonewho allowed you to merge into traffic, someone who held the door open for you, or a physician who saved your life. The point is to gear your attention toward gratitude, preferably first think in the morning.

It may seem like an awfully simple suggestion, but it really works! If you wake up in the morning with gratitude on your mind, it's pretty difficult, in fact almost impossible, to feel anything but peace

SO....I started out my day with this in mind, and it's been a great day!

I've been working on the "GET HEALTHY" program. And I have to say, I failed profusely Friday, and Saturday. BUT, have since redeemed myself. It's a little harder for me than I thought. It's gotta happen though.

I've got a grand prize for the person who has the highest point value at the end of the four weeks. HERE GOES....

A great bag to carry your healthy snacks, and nifty new water bottle in. (I have one of these water bottles, and I really, really like it. And it looks cute sitting on my desk. Can't beat that) And feeling snazzy in some warm adorable socks!! KEEP GOING, SCROLL DOWN FOR MORE!

I have a new favorite hot chocolate. It's made by the Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, in Lehi, Utah. LOVE THIS!!! A package for you, and this splendid hot chocolate mug. This is a favorite style of mug. Isn't really cutesy, but I love the feel of it!! KEEP GOING....SCROLL DOWN FOR MORE!!!

$15.00 gift card from chili's. Where you might enjoy my FAVORITE salad. (just a suggestion)

SPICY GARLIC & LIME GRILLED SHRIMP SALAD
Spicy garlic & lime grilled shrimp, mixed cheese, corn relish, house-made pico de gallo and crispy tortilla strips, topped with cilantro. Served with fire-roasted tomato vinaigrette.

My husband and I share one of these, and it fills us right up!!

I took an hour last week to do something I've been wanting to do. MAKE A COUPLE SCARVES!!

Visit Diamonds, Fur and Laundray to learn how to make these!!! This one is made from knit.

Love this purple

And made from flannel

I'm making more.... and will also include one in the winning pkg. KEEP TRACK OF THOSE POINTS!!!!

Have a great day!!

Get Healthy.....BEGINS TODAY!

2010-01-11T06:19:00.000-08:00

"Get Healthy Challenge" begins TODAY!!! (see post below) I'll post the prizes tonight (I'm running late), and I'll email all the charts today. If you want a chart, email me!!!

EAT SOME OF THIS

AND DO ALLOT TA THAT....

By the end of 4 weeks, we should be a bunch of Healthy, Happy Chicks!!

Put this on a pillow: No one else can be who you are, so exercise your individuality.

Get Healthy, Be Well CHALLENGE...

2010-01-08T07:28:00.000-08:00

Get Healthy, BE WELL Challenge

(The challenge that I've taken from our Rec. Center because I choose to not have the entire north end of our valley know my dirty little/unhealthy living secrets)

The Challenge: This challenge runs for 4 consecutive weeks. A prize will be offered to the person earning the most points! (I'll post that this weekend. I know....you're chompin at the bit aren't you?)

~Points are awarded for drinking water, exercising, and eating veggies and fruits and smiling, throughout the challenge.

Healthy Living Goals:

Drinking Water: 1 point per cup

Exercise: 1 point per 10 minutes (this one will be a killer for me!!) I'd like to get some snow shoes and go snow shoeing in the field!!

Veggies and Fruits: 1 point per 1/2 cup

Smile: 5 pts. for smiling throughout the day. (the power of positive thinking....VERY HEALTHY!)

Water= Fresh water. Reusable container is recommended, not required. Sorry, but juice, milk, coffee, soda, tea, lemonade etc. do not count. (It's a CHALLENGE)

Veggies and Fruit= Fresh, frozen canned qualify. Please do not count juice (high in calories and no fiber). What qualifies as a 1/2 cup serving? Any of the following....1/2 cup celery, 1/2 medium tomato, 1 small apple, 1/2 large banana, 6 baby carrots (you get the point). We'll just have to measure a bit. Add veggies and fruit to each meal and for snacks!!

Keep track of your points....and on February 8th, email me your points! We'll then honor the challenge winner respectivley!! IF YOU WOULD LIKE A TRACKING SHEET, I WOULD BE GLAD TO EMAIL YOU ONE. Go ahead and drop me an email and I'll get one to you!! smallhouse19@yahoo.com

Leave me a YES comment if you're up to the challenge!!

Well...here I am. Yep, I got a jump start on this challenge. KIDDING....1. I'm not blonde. 2. Don't look like this 3. Couldn't do this when I was in shape or rather....HEALTHY!

Let Them Look at Cake:

Put this on a pillow:
Picture a thick wedge of rich, velvety Black Forest gateau. Hungry? Unlikely as it sounds, showing weight-conscious women pictures of sweet treats actually strengthens their resolve to eat healthily, rather than encouraging them to cheat.
Advertisers clearly believe images of tasty morsels persuade people to buy but psychologist Floor Kroese of Utrecht University in the Netherlands speculated that temptation might in fact heighten self-control.

Better Than Apple Pie?????

2010-01-04T17:48:00.001-08:00

While visiting the blog Hesses Madhouse she shared the yummyest (is that even a word?) recipe for Cinnamon Syrup!! I gave it a try Saturday morning. Tasted great on pancakes. Hmmmmm.....would this work as a dip for apple slices. YES !! IS THE ANSWER. YES!!

Taste's as good as apple pie!!

Cinnamon Syrup

1/2 cup white sugar

1/2 cup packed brown sugar

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 cup water

DIRECTIONS: Stir together the white sugar, brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon in a small saucepan. Stir in vanilla extract and water. Heat, until it gets a little thick!

THEN.....Dip, or drizzle whatever you're eating at the time. YUM!!!! ENJOY!!

Is anyone interested in participating in a "Get Healthy" four week little competition? I don't want to join this same competition at our local rec. center. I know to many people. AUGH! SO....I thought maybe we could do this as blogging friends. I have all the info. and can even offer a grand (on a not so grand but fun scale) prize. We can start next week. Spread the word if you're interested, and have people come pop by my blog and let me know. Or email me. It's easy....nothing complicated. We're talking about me being part of it. Has to be easy!!!

Put this on a pillow: There is nothing like staying at home for real comfort. ~Jane Austen

(Now isn't that the truth)

Hands and Heart.....

2010-01-02T08:34:00.001-08:00

A simple idea ~ This particular idea I used a few years ago for the Young Women leaders in our Stake. I'm recycling the idea and we are sharing with the women in our ward.

This is the last basket of gloves. Hopefully they'll be delivered by the end of the day.

Inside each glove....

“The Master frequently spoke of hand and heart…

Not only by precept did Jesus teach, but also by example. He was faithful to his divine mission. He stretched forth his hand that others might be lifted toward God.

At Galilee there came to him a leper who pleaded: “Lord, if thou wilt, thou canst make me clean. And Jesus put forth his hand, and touched him, saying, I will; be thou clean. And immediately his leprosy was cleansed” (Matthew 8: 2-3). The hand of Jesus was not polluted touching the leper’s body, but the leper’s body was cleansed by the touch of that holy hand.

At the home of Peter, yet another example was provided. The mother of Peter’s wife lay sick of a fever. The sacred record reveals that Jesus came “and took her by the hand, and lifted her up, and immediately the fever left her” (Mark 1:31).

So it was with the daughter of Jarius, a ruler of the synagogue…Jarius sought the Lord, and upon finding him, fell at his feet and pleaded, “My little daughter lieth at the point of death; I pray thee, come and lay thy hands upon her, that she may be healed; and she shall live (Mark 5:23).

“While he yet spake, there cometh on from the rulers house saying to him, “Thy daughter is dead; trouble not the Master.”

But when Jesus heard it, he answered him saying, “Fear not; believe only, and she shall be made whole.” Parents wept. Others mourned. Jesus declared; “Weep not; she is not dead, but sleepeth.” “He…took her by the hand, and called, saying, Maid, arise.”

“And her spirit came again, and she arose straightway (Luke 8:49 – 50, 52, 54, 55). Once again, the Lord had stretched forth his hand to take the hand of another.
Thomas S. Monson

May our own hands be as the Saviors….

Love the Benson 1st Ward Relief Society Presidency,

Also tucked inside is a business card that reads "If you need anything.....Just give us a ring, names and phone numbers and a magnet attached to the back. Along with this years meeting schedule.

I'm always open for ideas....Please share if you have any!!!

Have a great day.
Put this on a pillow: To share love is to know another

A New Year.....

2009-12-31T09:29:00.000-08:00

OH....a NEW YEAR! WOW, 2010! Each year I can't help but wonder....."What will this next year bring??" And here I am thinking that again. "WHAT WILL IT BRING?" 2010, please be gentle. HAHAHAHAHA

IDEA....

I used to keep a journal. For years I was faithful, over time I stopped writing. Wouldn't it be interesting to have an entire year documented? Nothing big, just a little reminder of what you did, felt, or thought of that day. Receipts saved, articles clipped and stapled inside.....

Here's my PLAN....

(Calander/Planner purchased at the dollar store)

A little room to write down a few thoughts, feelings or schedule for that day. Look at all those blank pages. Think of the possibilities for 2010!!!

Are you a MAKER OF RESOLUTIONS???

Every year I start out with big intentions. But after reading the January, 2010 Ensign article by Jeffrey R. Holland, I'm doing something a little different this year. It's a wonderful article, I encourage you to read it. I tried to link to it but it wouldn't cooperate. If you want a copy, email me, and I'll email it to you!!

My counselor is sick, and isn't able to give the RS lesson this Sunday. I'll be using this article. IT IS WONDERFUL!

Hope you all have a safe and happy night with your family and friends. I'm sure my husband and I will sit home quietly, but I can't think of a better person to sit quietly with!

Put this on a pillow: Cheers to a new year and another chance for us to get it right. ~Oprah Winfrey

A Month or More of Gratitude

2009-12-29T19:58:00.000-08:00

I knew the Holidays would prove to be busy for our family.....

but I never anticipated that it would have been as busy as it was. At a certain point I felt as if I would burst into tears at any moment. And be it known....I don't cry easily. (unless I'm touched right to the heart, then I'm a mess)

Last year was my first Christmas being a RS Pres. This year I started earlier taking care of my own families needs, knowing that if I didn't we would be scrambling again before the 25th.

Along with being RS Pres. I am now also serving as Cub Scout Leader. I know I can do this, it just takes a little extra planning, a bit more sacrifice. I know that Wednesday nights are not mine or my families nights. I use Wednesday nights to have Scouts and to visit or do what needs done for Relief Society.

Not wanting to bore anyone, and not blaming anyone for writing me off.....I'll share what I've been up to this past month....or so.....

Utah snow. "The Best Snow on Earth." ???????????????

Cub Scouts.... I miss small children in our home, so these boys are welcomed guests. I hope they know how much I enjoy having them come each week.

15 year old son is on the Freshman High School team. We attend his games, and then later that same night.....

We attend the Varsity High School games to watch cute girl. We've had a few basketball games to attend, but the next two months....WOW..... basketball crazy! We'll probably average about 4 high school games a week.

Our ward is small, and also we have allot of ward members that don't participate in serving. SO...all ward activities/parties are organized and planned by the ward auxilliaries. We had a big turnout for our Christmas party, and felt really good about the efforts that we made.

The month was filled with shopping for families that otherwise might not have a Christmas. Filling food orders, and making sure many peoples needs were met.

Working full time....

I also had to sing a solo in Sacrament meeting on the 20th, which was a HUGE AUGH for me. I'd rather speak in General Conference then sing a solo. I haven't sang a solo since the year our baby died, and my heart is not used to that mess.

And then finally..... a couple days to focus on our family.

Reading about the birth of Christ. Which always touches my heart. This one event changed the world forever. And what a gift.

This year Kmart was having buy one get one free.....

Pajamas for ALL!

Christmas morning!!

That's a small glimpse. And now....being able to sigh relief, I can visit all of my blog friends, and celebrate with you in your month of celebration.

I do believe I'm going to take a different approach with my blog. We'll see how it goes.

Have a great day.

Out Goes the Package....

2009-11-20T08:14:00.000-08:00

Oh so cute cookie idea......

Sugar cookie dough wrapped around a candy kiss......

Bake, then wrap cookie in foil.

Of course mine aren't as cute as Country Living Magazine....fun anyway, and he won't know.

We made our own little slips using scriptures regarding Thanksgiving, and funny little thoughts that remind us of our son and brother. Find scriputres on Thanksgiving here

Packed with fudge.....

Can you ever have enough chocolate??

Rice Crispie Treats with a twist. Sprinkle a smidge of cinnamon over the dry Rice Crispies. Just a smidge. YUM.....The cinnamon offers a hint of fall in each bite. Wrap them individually so they can be shared!!

Pack treats in a pumpkin found at Walmart.....

And off to the one you love!!

Put this on a pillow: I will praise the name of God with a song, and will magnify him with Thanksgiving. ~Psalms 69:30

In The News.....

2009-11-18T14:00:00.000-08:00

There are a few things in the news today that have just made me scratch my head in wonder.... And SOMETHING I can totally agree with....

Now...if this were your daughter, would you not haved walked out onto that field, and yanked her out of the game yourself?????

NM soccer player talks about ponytail pullThe soccer player whose rough play against BYU became a viral video tells The New York Times she deeply regrets pulling down a player by the ponytail. She says other rough play on the video was taken out of context.

ksl.com - Teen accused of trying to rob drug dealer

SERIOUSLY......REALLY.....? I'd say "takes one to know one." Now what???? Does the drug dealer go free???

NOW THIS IS SOMETHING WORTH REPORTING!!! I can totally agree with this!!!

Actor Johnny Depp: People's Sexiest Man Alive 2009

It's no secret at my house....YES JOHNNY DEPP!!!!!

HAVE A GREAT DAY!!

Wishing You Joy.....

2009-11-16T09:58:00.000-08:00

The Mission.......Christmas gifts,
The Challenge......To have all gift giving wrapped up, or at least purchased and made my November 30th.

After Halloween, Walmart offered their fall kitchen towels for a $1.00. I thought the red, mixed with the green would work well for Christmas.

Then, after visiting the Dollar Store, I also found these kitchen towels. They to would go with my neighbor gifts. So, it's just a matter of what you like. My favorite is of course the red and white gingham check towel.

Tea dyed tags.... These are so easy, and I love making them. After soaking them in tea, and blotting them with the tea bags, I place them in the oven on the lowest setting until dry. Doesn't take long. I like to see how they come out.

Wishing You JOY This Holiday Season.

The trick was finding the small Joy bottles. After searching all the major dept. stores, I found them at our new Walgreens. (Use coupons, and their instore coupon promotions to make it affordable)

Have a great day!

Cherie's,Favorite Things Challenge....

2009-11-13T06:27:00.000-08:00

A challenge, a challenge!! I love a challenge. This isn't a hard challenge. This came from Cherie at Bakow Babble. This week Cherie showed us pictures of her favorite things.
Of course, her "favorite things" were thoughtful, endearing, and needless to say DUSTED. If you check out her blog you'll see what I mean. ANYWAY....she challenged us to share our "favorite things."

Mine is a bit more worldly, but smells lovely.......ahhhhhhhhh!

For years I couldn't smell or taste. I have year round allergies that are horrible. Finally 8 years ago I was tested for allergies so that I could begin getting allergy shots. Needless to say I was allergic to everything they tested me for. I wasn't surprised.

For the first time in my LIFE I could smell and taste. And then I became hooked.....hooked on smelling. (thus the need to smell people. Sometimes it's shocking)

A few of my Favorite Things

My favorite's... Daisy, Be Delicious (not seen), Juicy, Ed Hardy, Pretty by Elizabeth Ardon, Happy, Oh the list goes on.

Not only do these smell good, the bottles themselves are WONDERFUL

Here's a tip. When purchasing fragrances, it usually only costs about a $1.50 - $3.00 more to get the gift pack. With that you usually get a lotion and maybe bath gell. So mist with your favorite fragrance, and then pop the lotion in your bag. You'll smell good all day!!

Here's what I've found....as of lately, Kohls Dept. store is now selling high end fragrances. IF you have a Kohls card, you'll receive in the mail percent off cards. My daughter wants Daisy for Christmas (good choice). I received a 30% off card in the mail, (Daisy is cheaper at Kohls than Dillards), so I used my 30% off card, also received a gift with a purchase and got $10.00 bonus bucks. After I purchased with my Kohls card I said, I'd like to make a payment.....and paid off the charge.

They also have gift packs right now. And they themselves are 10% off, plus you could us your percent off card, or they'll give you a card to rub and see what you get!! Don't forget to get your gift with a purchase!! Great stocking stuffer.

Hope your day smells GREAT!

Put this on a pillow: From the mouth of Eeyore; Even if you think you have nothing worth stealing...someone will come along and take your tail.

A Christmas Memmory...made from TULLE!

2009-11-10T21:21:00.000-08:00

Sunday evening I was rummaging through my husbands parents Christmas decorations, and had to smile when I came upon this old tulle candy cane. I had forgotten, but at that moment remembered that my mom had a tulle candy cane that hung on the front door for years. Do any of you remember these??? This particular candy cane has seen better days.

BUT HEY.....I thought, maybe it would be a good idea to make one for myself. A lover of tulle that I am, heck.....I'd be hanging heaven on my door. I LOVE TULLE!!!!!

It required allot of cutting, and weaving in and out, and at times I got a little impatient. I didn't think I'd ever quit adding tulle. It took about 3 yards of red tulle and 3 yards of white tulle.

The ribbon reminds me of hard tack Christmas candy that would get thrown into my Christmas sock, and end up with thread stuck to it.

I plan on hanging it on my door, just like my mom did years ago!! Thanks to my mother in-law who threw nothing away, a sweet Christmas memory has been re-created.

Put this on a pillow: From the mouth of Eeyore.... "If you follow your own footsteps...you'll only find the road to nowhere."(what an attitude this little donkey has)

Let me just sneak in a little award that one of my favorite bloggers awarded me lately.

THIS AWARD HAS A LITTLE PICTURE...BUT FOR SOME REASON BLOGGER ISN'T LETTING ME DOWNLOAD THIS PICTURE. I'M GETTING REALLY BUGGED.

The rules of accepting and sharing this award are:

*Thank the person who gave the award and link to their blog. SO....Thank you Sondra! Love this lady. Blogger is being a bugger right now. SO IF YOU WANT TO VISIT SONDRA....And you should, she is on my side bar at "CLEAN FRUGAL LIVING"

*Share "10 Honest Things" about yourself.

1. I twitch. Yep...my face twitches. I'm a nervous wreck, and I seriously thinks that's why. I talked to a doctor about it once, and he said "It's just your thing." HEY BUSTER, there's got to be a pill for this.... there's a pill for everything!!

2. I'm slightly pigeon toed. I kind of look like a duck when I walk. HAHAHA Sad but true.

3. I'm really quite easy going. I haven't always been that way, but with a little practice and discipline, I now am.

4. I prefer to be happy.

5. You won't know if I'm sad. No one new I was EXTREMELY depressed after our baby died. But I was. I'm a great actress!!

6. I polish my toenails. Even in the winter. My toes are really long and look like aliens, but polish helps my toes look more attractive. And seriously, isn't that what we all want??? Attractive toes!

7. MAKE-UP....LOVE IT!!! I love make-up. Love wearing it, LOVE IT, LOVE IT, LOVE IT. I probably wear to much. OH WELL....

8. I'm a perfume junky. I have to wear it all the time. It's my favorite purchase....When people walk by me I smell them. I've tried to stop, but I CAN'T! Sometimes it's not really that pleasant!!

9. I don't usually wear tennis shoes/gym shoes/ sport shoes. Infact rarely will I wear tennis shoes.

10. My house is a mess right now. Completely and utterly a mess. I have no idea when I'll be able to get to it. So it will remain a mess for a few more days.

THANKS SONDRA. You are a delight to visit!!!!!!!

Excuse ME......

2009-11-08T20:16:00.001-08:00

Excuse me, but I'd like to introduce myself. Ummmm.....my name is sandra. I'm 43, mother of 4, wife to my husband....I live in a field, I started blogging about a year ago, but as of lately fell completely off the blogging world. I missed all of you.

CRAZY hu?.....missing people you hardly know.

Here's the scoop!

OH.....as you read my long explanation, please enjoy some adorable items I received from Laura Laura Lynn at Enjoying the Simple Things! She's a new friend that I have just recently met. I joined her swap, and boy...did she spoil me rotten.

Last week in church we had our RS lesson on Internet use. It's a lesson every ward was asked to give throughout our church. Well.....my 2nd counselor gave a beautiful lesson etc. Which made me think. ALOT. How much does blogging take away from time that I could use to take care of my home, serve, etc? I announced in Family Home Evening that night, that I wasn't going to blog for awhile. SOooooo I walked away from my computer/craft/library room. And didn't blog.

Laura Lynn made this banner. ADORABLE HU??

Good grief, it was a bit tough at first. But I decided to hold out. How many closets would get cleaned? How many more chapters would I read in my scriptures? How much more would I exercise?? Would I serve more? Would I....WOULD I.....WOULD I......NOTHING! NOTHING MORE!!! NO CHANGE WHATSOEVER!!

Everything has remained the same. Ahhhhhh.....what a relief, that although I get a kick out of blogging, and meeting and visiting all of you, I have not let this rule my life. If anything by visiting all of you, I am inspired to do better and be better. Work harder. I missed your friendship, and the inspiration that I receive from the blogs I visit. I'm glad to be back.

Another banner made by Laura Lynn.

CUTE!!

This past week my oldest son turned 20. I did notice a few more wrinkles, and my stomach pooch is more defined. That's a definite sign of having an adult-adult child. I'm sure of it. I missed him a lot this past week. He's happy and doing well. We are proud of him.

SO....I've got some ideas I've been thinking about for Christmas, and will whip up then share. I've receieved an award from SONDRA I'm excited about and will share 10 things about myself. I'm certain you're dying to read about. A few random thoughts to share that have been going around in this crazy head of mine. Along with a 1 year anniversary. WOW....one year.

A BIG-BIG thank you to Laura Lynn. Visit her blog. Introduce yourself. I think you'll really, really like her.

I'm off to get back to bugging you all!!!

In the words of Eeyore...
Put this on a pillow: Make a First Impression.....
"What did you say it was?" he asked. "Tigger." "Ah!" said Eeyore. "He's just come," explained Piglet. "Ah!" said Eeyore again. He thought for a long time and then said: "When is he going?"

An Old Friend Stopped By!!

2009-10-28T18:25:00.000-07:00

An old friend stopped by today, to help me make my yearly Halloweeny Witchy Fingers.

Years past we made the cookie dough from scratch. This year we were in a bit of a pinch, so we used package cookie dough.

We didn't like this consistency quite as well. Since we were already into it, and not wanting to clown around we moved forward.

We're huge fans of the Wizard of Oz along with the sound track from WICKED, so green fingers are a great big must! (I'd love to see WICKED....it was nice of me to send my daughter to San Diego to see it this past summer though.... wasn't it? I LIKED IT FIRST!!! I'm not bitter.)

We shaped the cookies, and added cut in half almonds. In years past we purchased slivered almonds, but I had some almonds in my cupboard that were old and needed used. Just cut them in half.

And what's a witch without a manicure??? Red food coloring works well.

This is Flora's favorite time of year. And what good witch doesn't want to look beautiful??

Oh so pretty with her own witchy corsage.

From the mouth of Eeyore...

Put this on a pillow: Eeyore's Second Law of Motion. "A falling Pooh will land on a gorse bush, but....a falling Tigger will land on an Eeyore!"

Lunch Break

2009-10-27T06:09:00.000-07:00

Not far from the office I work at is a great little bakery calld "Old Grist Mill." They make sandwiches, soups, bread etc. At least twice a week I treat myself to a cup of soup and a slice of wheat bread. Sounds harmless right? The problem isn't the soup and bread the problem is the 3"x3" cream cheese frosting brownie or pumpkin chocolate chip with cream cheese frosting square. There lies the problem. I'm forced to tweak my lunch plan.

The dollar store has the perfect little containers for holding food. They don't spill or leak. And you get a handfull for a buck. They are the containers with the blue lids. The containers in the back will spill but are wonderful for holding sandwiches.

However, I can't eat an entire can of Progresso soup which happened to be on sale this weekend. And if I open a can and take part of it, then the leftover soup gets the gross fridge/tin can taste. So I have figured out, empty the entire contents into another container, snap on the lid and I have lunch for about 3 days.

Packing my own lunch will cost about the same as eating at Old Grist Mill, however, for the same price I also get apple sauce, yogurt, string cheese, and crackers.

Throw it in your lunch bag......less calories, and a no standing in line for your lunch!!! Gives me extra time to read for my 30 minutes. WHICH I USUALLY DON'T TAKE, AND JUST EAT AT MY DESK WHILE WORKING. AUGH!

What lunch ideas do you have??? Please share.. always searching for brown bag ideas.

From the words of Eeyore:

Put this on a pillow: Be Honest about your Feelings

"And how are you?" said Winnie-the-Pooh. Eeyore shook his head from side to side. "Not very how," he said. "I don't seem to have felt at all how for a long time."

2009-10-25T16:33:00.000-07:00

I say it every weekend, TOMORROW I BEGIN MY EXERCISE PROGRAM! I've been saying this for years. I've decided that maybe if I broadcast this throughout the internet, which to me is like putting it out there for the world to hear, then maybe, just maybe, I'll get up and do something about it.

I HAVE ONE DILEMA....The only time I can add this routine to my life is at 5:30 a.m. OH DEAR! I'm AM NOT a morning person. AND by saying I AM NOT a morning person is not an exageration.

I'm ready though.....

I've recently got my hands on POWERFIT....Fitness that Fits!

20 minutes a day.

5 discs for five days of the week! NOW I KNOW...we are told that we need to exercise at least 30 - 60 minutes a day.

If have a few extra minutes I can ride this lovely bike, the very same bike that I told my husband, NO ACTUALLY DECLARED that "if I had that bike I'd ride it everyday!" Which sits in a little corner waiting to be dusted at least once a month.

I've even got this beauty. I worked out to this dvd set for a week once, and couldn't lift my legs to get out of my car, or step over the curb. I'm scared of this one. It does promise a "BEACH BODY" in 6 weeks.

Last week a home that I played in as a small child, just east of my parents home blew up. Just blew up. Miraculously the 2 people that were house sitting for their parents while they are serving an LDS mission in Scotland LIVED to tell about it!!! What a blessing. We drove by it today, and it's amazing. Makes me scared of my propane tank.

Also snapped this picture while on our quiet Sunday drive. My house is through the grove of trees in the distance. When the kids were small we would float zuchinni boats here.

My question of the day is......WHAT DO YOU DO FOR EXERCISE? And....how do you fit it into your schedule???? Try not to tell me to get ready for a marathon. I tried running this summer, and thought I was going to need to call an ambulance less than a quarter of a mile from my home.

For the next few weeks I'm quoting Eeyore. So here we go...he's bound to give us a different perspective.

Put this on a pillow: "Nobody minds. Nobody cares. Pathetic, that's what it is. ~Eeyore

OH MUMMY.......

2009-10-20T06:56:00.000-07:00

Do you need a simple, easy and cute Halloween treat for Primary, YW, School class, Youth Group??? Found a really cute idea at the blog Smell the Coffee Lisa (go meet Lisa Anne. She's got a cute little boy, has some great craft ideas and loves football. I also got an award from her that I'll be addressing later. I've got to get to work. THANKS LISA ANNE)

GUM MUMMIES!

Here's what you need. Glue gun, with glue of course. pkgs. of gum, white fabric, scissors and squiggly eyes.

The instructions are pretty self explanatory...but this is how I made them. Cut strips of fabric. Cover the ends with one strip and glue.

With a longer strip of fabric, wrap, wrap, wrap. Then glue.

Add squiggly eyes.
Cute hu??? I added these to a care pkg. for my son, and they looked so cute tucked in his Halloween treat bag. I also think they would be cute attached to a Halloween card for a friend

ALSO...Sharing a GREAT Halloween find from Michaels. Found these Martha Stewart Halloween clings. They regularly sell for I THINK $7.99. But right now they are a couple bucks.

I didn't use a perfect pumpkin to apply mine to. I like the goofy look of this one.

Just use a damp paper towel to apply. They are a bit like tattoos. Very cute, and super cheap. Hope you can find some at your Michaels.

HAVE A GREAT DAY!!!

Put this on a pillow: I hadda be great. I couldn't be medium. My mouth was too big.

~Barbara Streisand

Creepy Clown Scare....

2009-10-19T06:04:00.000-07:00

My cute son decided a couple years ago that he's afraid of clowns. We aren't sure what made him decide this, but he says he is. While grocery shopping on Saturday we ran into CREEPY CLOWN! My daughter new immediately what we should do with it. Her brother had a party he was attending Saturday night....when he came home there would be something waiting for him in his room!

When he opened his bedroom door, Creepy Clown would be waiting. She hung it from the ceiling with tacks. FUNNY!

An AIR HORN to add to the scare!! My word this is loud. If you need one....DOLLAR TREE!

We huddled in the corner of his room. He walks into the house.....goes to the computer, checks his email, his facebook, his farm on farmville which he JUST started. Visited the bathroom. GOOD GRIEF BUDDY.... (Peggy, I just want you to know that because of you, I knew more about Farmville than my kids did. my daughter just discovered it, but I already knew about it because of your blog and email!)

The room is dark....HE WALKS IN..... We blow the airhorn. I snap a picture...AND WE CAN'T EVEN SEE HIS FACE!!

Daughter jumps up and pushes the clown towards him. I did get that reaction. The thing that scared me most with all of this, is that HUGE pile of dirty laundry behind his bedroom door that he has failed to bring to the laundry room!!!! So if the creepy clown didn't scare him, that pile of laundry has. It's now his problem.

Over the weekend I made some REALLY cute mummies out of gum. If you need a little treat for your primary class, YW, school class, kids friends, I'll show you how to make them tomorrow and link you up to the blog I found them on!

Have A GREAT DAY!

Put this on a pillow: There's only one thing I enjoy more than talking with you.....laughing with you.

Talk About Vintage.....

2009-10-15T08:04:00.000-07:00

NOW I LOVE VINTAGE....ALWAYS HAVE....ALWAYS WILL....

My oldest son is currently in Florida, serving a 2 year mission for our church. These young men dress in white shirts, dark slacks and ties 7 days of the week. We have found that ties are important to these young men. They are the only thing that they really get to change up in their wardrobe.

However, the weather being HOT, HUMID and RAINY, has done a number on his ties. He asked me to start hitting the thrift stores and purchase him old polyester ties. He said "They might look ugly to you, but they're loved by us missionaries." I took that as, -Don't care if they're goofy- I found that the DI (local thrift store) asks $4.00 for a used polyester tie. I think that's ridiculous!

This week I happened to bring this up with a gentlemen I work with. WHO....happened to be throwing out his polyester ties from his mission. STOP THE PRESS!!!!!! SEE BELOW!!

TALK ABOUT VINTAGE.....LOOK AT THESE BABIES!!

a box full of vintage. They are wonderful

vintage close-up

A good wash is what they needed. They're polyester, what could it hurt???

NOTHING ACTUALLY. They washed up beautifully.

I lost count at 80, so....80 plus polyester ties headed to Florida. Funny thing is....they will LOVE THEM and wear them.

Look at the beauty on the far right....It's a bright purple and blue. The green with flowers is lovely to. Does any of this remind you of your dad or grandpa????

This is the one we suggest should be worn first!!!

LOVELY!

Thanks Craig........our son will love these.

Put this on a pillow: I will dare to do just what I do, Be just what I am, and dance whenever I want to.

A WEEK?????

2009-10-13T09:46:00.001-07:00

Holy smokes....has it really been a week since I posted??? It has been busy, but I didn't think it had been that long. Hmmmmmm......what have I been doing??

Chasing spiders.....from my windows.

He's a cute little thing. Maybe he should stay.

Casting Spells.....

And other spooky things......

Below is the spookyest of all!!!

A birthday.......15 years old this past week.

We open gifts at 5:15 a.m. Before the dad leaves for work. Our children don't like to wait until after school. At our house, this year for both birthdays and Christmas the theme is PRACTICAL gift giving :) I'm thinking most of you are the same this year to.

You know....socks, shoes, pants, tie, church shirt, pumpkin chocolate chip bread....

Gone are the days of match boxes, basketballs, and action figures. This year....

Sad HU????

And like most of you....some running in between.

Hope you are having a great week!!!!!!! I enjoy visiting all of you, and call it wierd, but even talk about you at my house!!! FUNNY isn't it.

Put this on a pillow: Witchy, witchy, sreamy, screamy, happy, happy, Halloweeny!

Weekend and Cookies...

2009-10-04T18:24:00.000-07:00

My weekend has turned out to be wonderful! Even though I headed south for the ump-teenth weekend in a row to visit in and around Salt Lake; this week turned out to be GREAT! We attended General Conference Saturday morning. Which was spectacular. We were thrilled when a temple was announced to be built in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. We knew that the members and missionaries had been praying for this to happen for quite some time. Can't wait to read what my son has to say about this announcement!! If you are ever worried that the LDS church is building a temple in your neighborhood, truth be told....property value goes UP when a temple is built!!! NO KIDDING!

Sunday morning I got up and fixed a large breakfast of french toast, bacon, sausage, scrambled eggs, and hot chocolate.

I've been trying to bake at least something a month. I know to you that sounds ridiculous, since you do it more often than that, but for me and my family, that's a treat! So I'm sharing this yummy recipe

Cowboy Cookies

Laure Bush's Cowboy Cookies no less.

(Be sure to scroll past the recipe to see a fun way to pkg. cookies for a friend or in my case a son that will be receiving these within the next couple of days)

3 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 tablespoon soda
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon salt
1 -1/2 cups butter (3 sticks) at room temperature
1-1/2 cups granulated suger
1-1/2 cups backed light-brown sugar
3 large eggs
1 tablespoon vanille extract
3 cups semisweet chocolate chips (I used semisweet and milk chocolate)
3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
2 cups sweetened flake coconut

preheat oven to 350 F. Mike flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon and salt in bowl. In 8-quart bowl, beat butter on medium speed untio smooth and creamy, 1 minute. Gradually beat in sugars; beat to combine, 2 minutes. Add eggs, one at a time, beating after each. Beat in vanilla extract. STir in flour mixture until just combined. Add chocolate chips, oats, coconut. For each cookie, drop 1/4 cup dough onto ungreased baking sheets, spacing 3 inches apart. Bake for 17 minutes, until edges are lightly browned; rotate sheets halfway through. Remove cookies from rack to cool. Make about 3 dozen cookies.

They are yummy, but OH-SO-SWEET! Eat with a large glass of milk!

Found these great little cookie pkgs. at Hobby Lobby (I think Hobby Lobby) quite awhile ago. Cute way to share a little goody, don't ya think??

Have a great day!!!!
Put this on a pillow: No pessimist ever discovered the secrets of the stars or sailed to an uncharted land or opened a new heaven to the human spirit. ~Helen Keller

Refurbished for Halloween

2009-10-01T09:56:00.000-07:00

I see that I'm a little behind on the fall decor. Most of you are on the ball and have begun or already have your fall and Halloween items up and looking pretty. Hopefully our house will be together by the end of the weekend.

I did however, manage to do a little spray painting last weekend. Which is a good thing, because like most of Northern Utah we went for 84 degrees one day to 44 degrees the next. This morning I had to scrape my window. OH SAD DAY.....

These were found at the DI (thrift store) a couple months ago. Put away, patiently waiting for October. Spray paint can change everything. Don't you agree??

A little spook house, waiting for little spooks to be added soon.

Once a silver stand....now is a perfect pumpkin perch.

I'm getting there. Slowly but surely. I did make pumpkin cookies last night. I have vowed to bake once a month at least. It might have been the last night of the month, but it did happen!!! OH....when the recipe calls for soda, add it. Some how I missed that ingredient. Once I figured it out I added it to the last half of the dough, which turned out much nicer than the first half.

Have a great day.

Put this on a pillow: Autumn is the hush before winter

Ring-Ring, Telephone Ring....

2009-09-30T07:47:00.000-07:00

This WONDERFUL old phone belonged to my husbands grandparents. He's the youngest of 4 children, and never new his grandma or grandpa. We tore down the old home that housed this black beauty, to build our SMALL HOUSE and recently it was returned to it's original roots.

It's a solid peice. The ring is loud, and can be heard from top to the bottom of our SMALL HOUSE. Oh the things it could tell if only it could.

A few different families shared the same phone number. As you can see the original number is still very much visible. SO....being the odd people that we are, we tried calling it from our cell phones. What a surprise it would have been if it had actually rang.

BUT....here's the question of the day:

IF YOU HAD TO SHARE A LINE WITH OTHER FAMILIES, WOULD YOU HAVE QUIETLY LISTENED IN???????? (OH...I hang my head in shame. Just being honest)

"The bathtub was invented in 1850 and the telephone in 1875. In other words, if you had been living in 1850, you could have sat in the bathtub for 25 years without having to answer the phone."

*******************************************

"MIDDLE AGE: When you're sitting at home on Saturday night and the telephone rings and you hope it isn't for you."

HAVE A GREAT DAY!

Witches Hat.....

2009-09-28T06:03:00.000-07:00

HELLO MODGE PODGE MANIA OR ....BLUE EYED BLESSINGS, craft of the month.

Years ago I was browsing at a nearby boutique, and saw this great witches hat. $30.00 not so great. I thought about it a bit, and figured out how I could make one myself. I'll share how I did it. REALLY, REALLY EASY and FUN!

Don't question the witch!!

I'm a mean old witch with a hat....

OKAY...onto the TUTORIAL

Gather supplies, MOD PODGE (which I always forget how to spell), witches hat (of course), plastic shopping bags, foam brush, clothes pins, ribbon, and embelishments if desired.

Lightly stuff the shopping bags into the witches hat. Stuff clear up into the point of the hat. This will keep the hat opened, and workable.

Tie the ribbon of choice around the hat, size, and cut.

Add Mod Podge around the base of the hat, where the ribbon will sit. This will hold the ribbon in place to finish the rest of the project

Put the already sized ribbon etc. over the MOD PODGE. NOW....Mod Podge the entire hat. This includes the ribbon, tulle, etc. It's easy to reshape the ribbon. Even as it's drying you can poof it out more and more.

After I had the witches hat completely covered with Mod Podge, I added glitter to this particular hat. If you notice the hat at the top of the post, it was glitter free.

Here's what it looks like all Mod Podged and glittere. EASY SO FAR HU? A little messy but easy.

Scrunch the top of the hat down. The Mod Podge helps it hold it's shape quite a bit HOWEVER...

I wanted certain twists and turns, so I held places together with clothes pins.

When it's almost dry, remove the shopping bags. You might have to reshape the hat a little bit again, but it's easy to do this.

When completely dry, add embelishments. Or not. I did either way.

You can make all different sizes. I have one that I put on the mantel, in the kitchen, etc. The Witch Is In!!!!
Put this on a pillow: My mother says I must not pass; to near that glass, she is afraid that I will see, a little witch that looks like me.

Dollar Store, and What's on Hand.....

2009-09-25T08:16:00.001-07:00

Our ward's (church) make it and take it night is on a Thursday this year. We had 2 minutes to brainstorm a clever pitch for that night and so we're calling it "Thursday Thingy." HAHAHAHAHA

I found a great idea at Marins Creations that we are using, and I'll post about it later.

While brainstorming ideas, floating around different blogs, and spending a minute here and there at the dollar store and craft store I came up with an idea that may or may not work for "Thingy Thursday" but can be used in my home during the holidays.

These started out as aluminum silver trays from the dollar store. I wanted to use spray paint I had on hand, and found this old brown/orange color. Works for fall.

Always have red!! Christmas of course. I think a white tray would be cute to tuck in my bedroom. Add a little chalkboard paint (2 coats) and cute ribbon I had on hand. The red is my favorite, and can be used year round in my kitchen. CHEAP-CHEAP-CHEAP!!

These could make cute neighbor gifts by adding a piece of chalk with each gift. Just thinking....

What to do with a WITCHES HAT???? I've got a tutorial coming soon. I LOVE THE HOLIDAYS!!!!

Have a great day.

Put this on a pillow: Some people march to a different drummer ~ and some people polka.

Let me bore you with a not so boring week....

2009-09-22T17:25:00.000-07:00

Let me bore you with a not so boring week. I had no idea how involved Homecoming could be. In the end we had a lot of fun. These girls work really hard to make things happen. We spent an evening at a Powder Puff football game. Which as I reported last week, I got a horrible cold.

Pep assemby which is on another camera. And Friday night football game. Cute daughter has her arm up in the air with her mouth open. Hmmmmm.....the apple doesn't fall far from the tree. I wasn't a cheerleader, but I think my mouth is always open. Eating or talking.

I love this picture. You think she's standing there watching the game don't you? WELL....she's 5'2" and there is no way she can see over these guys. Not to mention, she knows nothing about football!! We get the biggest kick out of watching her. She's a riot.

Saturday morning, off to Salt Lake City to attend a cross country meet at Cottonwood park. What a great park! I heard someone say 585 kids were involved in this meet. I LOVE this sport. What a great group of youth!!

The cute kid is here, just back a bit in the blue on the right! He didn't start running until school started. Missed all the summer practices because of basketball. But is working hard to beat his own time each meet. I COULD NEVER DO THIS!!! EVER....EVER....EVER. I am NOT one of those parents that stand on the side yelling, and screaming at my child to move faster, and offering advice. I'm there to cheer and support, and be one proud mom.

Tired kid in blue, that thinks he's in need of a haircut. I'm a rebel mom and like the long hair. I can find him in a crowd. He's the one with the blonde floppy hair. This week, he's cutting it. SAD!

Raced home to see cute girl be whisked off to the homecoming dance.

Date comes, and out the door they go. I'm not sure I'm ever going to get used to this dating my daughter business. You just hope and pray that each young man that comes is kind and respectful. In this case he was!!! And she had a blast!!

Thanks for letting me share my family a little bit.

Still trying to catch up from a whirlwind we've had these past 6 months, but we're getting there. I hope to become a better blogging friend, and get back into the swing of things again. HAVE A GREAT DAY!!!!!!

2009-09-16T13:56:00.000-07:00

After 1 year of not having a cold I thought "COOL." At 2 years of not having a cold I felt as if I had bragging rights. And brag I did!!!! Everytime anyone was sick in our house, I'd remind them that I hadn't had a cold for 2 YEARS! Last December our family spoke in church, and the family all had horrible colds. I bragged from the pulpit that I hadn't had a cold for 2 1/2 years. When 3 YEARS hit.... I almost threw a party.

Last week, everyone (but of course ME) had a cold. I think you're all aware of my cold attitude, and you know at this point, I reminded them over and over and over......

THEN....Monday night....hurricane rainstorms I swear (although I 've never been in a hurricane, and highly unlikely in Utah). I sat through a horrible rainstorm to watch my daughter play Powder Puff Football. With a humble heart, as I dragged my tired, achey, soar throat and runny nose to bed at a way to early of an hour for me, I announced to everyone that I WAS SICK. Oh my kind, tender hearted family....It was all they could do to not jump up and down. Cute daughter with a big smile on her face asked..."Sick from what mom? FROM WHAT." Forcing me to answer "A COLD!!!

SUBJECT CHANGE:

Almost straight east from my house is a new tarred road that travels quite a way up the mountain. All summer I have said that "I want to drive to the top of that road." (it doesn't take a lot to make me happy) And of course they are developing houses there. Sad but true. Before the houses arrive this is the GORGEOUS VIEW into the world that I live in.

I live in the valley below. Almost straight across.

The view toward our little city. I live quite rural, but a perfect rural. 15 minutes from almost anywhere. Mountains circle around and it makes for a lovely sight.

Tonight a cross country meet, homecoming parade, and an assembly at the High School. I'll skip if I can. I'm afraid handsome son will want to attend. He can't drive yet. Tomorrow visits for church, Friday night football game. Which I never watch. I'd rather watch my daughter cheer, or just people in general. Saturday off to Murray High school in Salt Lake for a cross country meet, and hurry home to help cute daughter get ready for the Homecoming dance. Crazy, but we only get to do it once.

Put this on a pillow: GET WELL!!!

2009-09-10T07:45:00.000-07:00

This is the top of a bench that I found at a yard sale earlier in the summer along with the make-up table that I'm still trying to decide what to do with. SNEEZE, SNEEZE, SNEEZE. But I wanted a few furniture pieces for my bedroom. And brand new was not an option.

Once scratched brown wood, (not even sure of the type of wood), and newly covered. It sits below a beautiful quilt that my friend Rose lovingly made for me.

I've been playing with iron on transfers. Six is a good number for us.

And this is when the six began....

I'm trying to get together some crafts and things for a "Super Saturday". And last night I thought it might work to make some smaller pillows with the letter B O O on each pillow. Then embelished with ribbon and such. I'm also coming up with chalkboards for the women to make, and a very cute craft I found on Marins Creations.

The last few months have been filled with caring for my father in-law. It was a treat to watch my husband lovingly and gently care for his ailing father.

He was layed to rest on Tuesday. Our summer was spent caring for him. I'm incredibly behind, thinking I would get a giveaway out weeks ago, thinking for sure it would have been last week, and then we had this to attend to. SORRY.....I'm getting the giveaway out this weekend.

Doesn't this casket look stunning with the flag? That's my son in the brown sweater, behind his dad.

This was to COOL! As taps was played, memebers of the American Legion stood by.

The flag was then folded and passed to the oldest son. What a lovely sight.

It was a nice day, and everything went well. It was a little different then what we do within our own church. My father in law was baptized LDS, but is anti-Mormon. My husband is actually the only child in his family that participates in the LDS church. Needless to say it's been an interesting 25 years. But I have learned tolerance, and to love unconditionally. Even if at times it's been from afar. I hope he finds peace, and love within his own heart. He worked hard, and raised a wonderful son, That I have the blessing of being married to.

Put this on a pillow: Families are like fudge; mostly sweet with a few nuts!

2009-09-07T07:20:00.000-07:00

It's been a crazy last four days. I haven't really been home for any of it. We've had football games, cross country meets, church assignments, a day at Lagoon (amusement park) and my father inlaw passed away. He will be layed to rest tomorrow.

Flowers have been delivered to our home in behalf of his death, and the best part about these flowers, THEY AREN'T REAL! Years ago, when I was able to watch Oprah, in all her great wisdom she said to NEVER have fake flowers. (That was the $$$ talking I believe) NOT ME..... I say HAVE fake flowers. You can't kill them. Dust them off every now and then, and you're good to go. Don't get me wrong....there is nothing like real flowers in a vase, but in my world it's just not practical all the time.

Coming home from Lagoon on Saturday, I stopped in Layton to visit their Target. Our city missed the boat somewhere. We have two Walmart's....What's with that?? There's always a clearance to be found at Target, so if I'm driving by one, I ALWAYS stop and go in.

I thought these plates would match my bedroom, but didn't want to spend the $$ on plate hangy thingy's. Being the cheap person I am...I'll show you the cheap secret way of hanging plates. I only share my secrets with my closest friends.

Ribbon and a glue gun.

EASY, and you already have this on hand.

Also, QUICK get to your nearest Dollar Tree!! They have the cutest candles!! They come in assorted colors. TO CUTE. Love the bird perched in her tree. Not to mention, they have a lot of Halloween items that will go quickly.

Enjoy your Labor Day! I plan on laboring all day. Cleaning my very neglected house, and then cleaning the office I work at with the kids. Cleaning the office pays for their cell phone bill.

Put this on a pillow: What I have to say is far more important than how long my eyelashes are. ~Alanis Morissette

Little Touches......We Could Make These

2009-09-02T09:57:00.000-07:00

Sometimes it's the little touches.

Do you have a "Real Deals" in your little town??? What a fun place to visit. Makes me want to save my $$$ so I can return and really get some cute stuff. BUT.....again, once in awhile will have to do.

Since this wonderful little store is only open two days out of the week, I stopped by on Saturday.

.49 gets you this adorable jewelry for your candle. It's not a little plastic something, it's sturdy, antiqued metal. On the back has a little like earing post that you just push into your candle, to jazz it up!!!

I seriously think we could make these!!!! Think of the seasonal candle jewelry we could make! It's got me thinking.....

Lovely doily lovingly made by my sweet mother in-law. A nice little reminder of her love and talents.

I've been collecting battery operated candles for quite some time. I LOVE candles, but can't always be in the same room to keep an eye on them. They were sitting on my dresser. Then one night....the power went out. My husband wakes in the early morning hours to get ready for work, and of course it was still dark. I heard him lighting match after match by our dresser. I asked, "What are you doing?" He responded, "I can't get this stupid candle to light." Oh my word....I laughed so hard, I had to put the pillow over my head to not make him feel bad. I now have a candle that looks quite authentic, a little burnt around the edges.

Have a great day.

GREAT GIVEAWAY AT "MAKE IT WORK MOM" CHECK IT OUT!!! AND, another fun giveaway at Cali co There's always a party somewhere!

Put this on a pillow: Autumn...the years last, loveliest smile.

2009-08-31T09:42:00.000-07:00

I've really wanted a room re-do. My bedroom has NOT been the quiet sanctuary that I've heard a bedroom is suppossed to be. It's really been a "drop it here and run" place.
When I say re-do I meant everything....walls (all are white), comforter, furniture except the bed etc. AND THEN I remebered I live on planet earth and none of that would fly. Using the same comforter, I've been searching for "NEW TO ME" bedroom items at yard sales and thrift stores.

This lovely piece was at a yard sale for $5.

I'm not going to say, "I just slapped on a couple coats of paint" because it's not that easy. You all know the process. But now I have this next to my bed.

This is my FAVORITE!!! It has sections!! Usually there were piles along side of my bed. Scriptures, magazines, a basket full of lotions and a book I SWEAR I'm going to finish.

TODAY IS MOD PODGE MANIA at Xazmin. Some of these ladies are AMAZING with what they come up with. I just needed storage box by the side of my bed. My JUICY perfume box, that holds my pens, scripture pencil, remote and other essentials...

Became my mod podge beauty of the day.

Gotta have rick-rack. And I just mod podged over that to. (Did I spell rick-rack right)

Our room re-do is almost complete. Need to whip up a few more pillows. It's much-much nicer and calming than it was before.

Put this on a pillow: Obstacles are those frightful things you see when you take your eyes off your goals.

This and That's

2009-08-27T19:19:00.001-07:00

I've enjoyed Primitive stitch/embroidery since my kids were small. It's inexpensive, calming, and enjoyable to look at when finished.

My grandma did the same. Although she passed away when I was small, I have such pretty items that she made just for me. With that in mind, I always said that one day I would make flour sack dishclothes and pillow cases for my own children to take when they leave the nest. I always thought, "When they get older, I'll start." It dawned on me recently...."UMMM....they are older." I'm getting started.

I was able to find some iron on transfers just like my grandma used. BEST OF ALL....they are iron on. Beats tracing!!

Many more to go. I'm hoping that each child will have at least 10 dishtowels and two sets of pillow cases.

Until they leave this Small House, A little direction is still needed. At the end of our stairs, a gentle nudge....

Our family goal for this year. Hoping we will support and enjoy each other a little more.

Hope you are all enjoying your week.

Put this on a pillow: Remember, Ginger Rogers did everything Fred Astaire did, but she did it backwards and in high heels!! ~Faith Whittlesey

How to Make a Few Extra Bucks AT HOME! HAHAHA

2009-08-21T07:24:00.000-07:00

Somehow, somewhere, my husband found this beauty (being sarcastic). His plan....to make a couple extra bucks, Ummm......off the kids?!!! HAHAHAHAHAHAHA Well, why not. Only problem, I think I use more quarters in this machine then they do.

The question was, where to put this lovely beast???? I think he considers it a success. Because as you can see, it needs refilled. In case you want to make a couple bucks off your family (oh my word), m&m's are the #1 seller, with Hot Tomales running a close 2nd. HEE HEE HEE

It's a great conversation piece, and friends know to bring quarters when they come. HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA

So as not to think he is totally shallow, all earnings will go to our "Want to go to Florida" Fund.

HAVE A GREAT DAY! AND YEA.....IT'S FRIDAY!

Put this on a pillow: One of the secrets of a happy life is continuous small treats. ~Iris Murdoch

Where's Waldo???? Something Silly

2009-08-19T19:21:00.000-07:00

On my playing hookey day (Tuesday) we had to run cute daughter into the portrait studio for cheer pictures to be displayed in the school. (OH MY WORD....they cost a fortune. We aren't purchasing from them!! YIKES!!)

ANYWAY...While she was in her cheer outfit, and not being rushed, we decided to snap a picture. "Where's Waldo" had to be seen in every picture, however possible he could get himself into the picture. I can't look at these pictures and not laugh~

Hanging outside the window....

I couldn't get into the house quite awhile ago, and had to take out the screen (Okay, rip out the screen) and climb through the windows. Obviously, it still hasn't been replaced.

Here's Waldo, playing dead in the background.....

Not sure what he's doing here.

Finally, we thought we were fast enough....

Some people's children!!

Put this on a pillow: If you remember to laugh, play, and dance each day, youth will always be yours. ~Gertrude Stein

Lazy Days of Summer?????

2009-08-18T07:21:00.001-07:00

Who decided to call it "The Lazy Days of Summer?"

Every extra minute has been filled with anything but lazy.

The garden harvested, fruit jars filled. Family attended to. All those things we love, but certainly not lazy.

Today, I'm playing HOOKIE! I called work and said I'll be in later tonight. I'm making cinnamon rolls right now. While the dough is rising, I'll weed a very neglected flower garden. We'll finish the rolls, then off we go with rolls in tow, doing a couple things I've been wanting to do.

Is it possible to throw summer into 3/4 of a day?

Put this on a pillow: Do not follow where the path may lead. Go instead where there is no path and leave a trail. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

Small House ideas....

2009-08-16T17:36:00.000-07:00

Great giveaway at Marin's Creations You'll love it! AND....her blog is wonderful. She make you want to COOK and Bake.

OKAY....a couple posts ago, I shared about a great chalkboard product I found. WELL....it gets even better!!! Tami at Pixel Trasha Mania is a great blogging friend who visited that day. She then came up with a REALLY good idea for chalkboard labels, using ordinary address lablels! You can find address labels at the DOLLAR STORE!!! Much less expensive then the Avery brand.

I gave it a try. The only difference is, she has much better handwriting then I do, I used spray chalkboard paint, and she had some cute bottles and containers to label. I think if you check out her post, it will get you excited about her idea!!! I'm thinking, I'll use this idea a lot!

Spent MOST of my Saturday cleaning and re-organizing our computer/library/craft room. The joys of SMALL HOUSE LIVING. This was the look around our printer. Post-Its that help us remember different things we wouldn't normally memorize. As wonderful as post-Its are, I was tired of all the clutter.

I found this small wood bulletin board while cleaning. Covered it with scrapbook paper using Mod Podge,

Embelished it a bit,

then assembeled a small book that now houses all our messy post it information. It's labeled "Little Book of This & That's"

The small area, looks much better, less cluttered, and quite cute. I'm browsing all your blogs looking for cute storage ideas. This room is/was driving my crazy!

I told my family not to let me back into a Hobby Lobby, Michaels, or any crafting store for the next few months. I have waaaaaaay to much stuff.

Enjoy your day!

Put this on a pillow: "If there is tomorrow when we're not together, there is something you always remember. You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think. But the most important thing is, even if we're aprt, I'll always be with you." ~Winnie the Pooh

Family Prayer Day

2009-08-15T23:09:00.000-07:00

"Family Prayer Day".

From our Stake Leaders:

"We humbly invite you and your family to participate, with us, in "Benson Stake Family Prayer Day". On this 16th day of August we encourage each family to gather in their homes following Sunday Services, to gather upon bended knees and thank Heavenly Father for his loving care. All are invited, regardless of their age, or their religious affiliation.

The Lord said "Organize yourselves; prepare every needful thing: and establish a house, even a house of prayer, a house of fasting, a house of faith, a house of learning, a house of glory, a house or order, a house of God." We note the first attibute mentioned leading to a house of God, is a house of Prayer. Herein is our opportunity to commune with our loving Heavenly Father who not only knows of our challenges and the desires of our hearts, but he knows the answers to all that faces us, and has all power to lift and bless us.
There are blessings awaiting our families, which are conditioned upon our asking. The simple act of being on our knees together as a family each day draws us closer to each other as well as to our Father in Heaven..."

I've looked forward to this day. We have invited our children to contemplate this past week and decide what they feel will strengthen our family this coming year. We will meet as we usually do on Sunday evening for Family Home Evening, pray together, and make goals together. I'm glad that our leaders have invited us to participate in this day. HAPPY SUNDAY!

Put this on a pillow: Let us this day forward be a little better, love one another a little more, treat one another with greater kindness and look to God and live.
~Pres. Gordon B. Hinckley THIS IS WHAT I WILL PRESENT TO OUR FAMILY TOMORROW NIGHT.

Clearance Table Obsession

2009-08-14T08:25:00.000-07:00

I'm a magnet for clearance tables, wracks and shelves.

The other day, I was heading into Deseret Book, and of course they put their clearance tables in the entry way, and I found the coolest little item. This stuff is great. You can add a chalkboard anywhere. It's a thin product with sticky on the back that can adhere to almost anything.

After I purchased it, my son said "Mom, you're the only mom that buys these little decoration items, and has doo dads all over their house." Okay....so maybe compared to his friends moms, I am a little over board, but I told him, "you need to blog with me!!!" I am not alone."

Now tell me that chalkboard didn't come in handy. We'll never wonder again what's flour and what's sugar." HAHAHAHA

Of course I can't help but think...."Maybe I do have an obsession with STUFF." AM I ALONE?????

Put this on a pillow: I am lost, I have gone to find myself. If I return before I get back, please have me wait. This is on my desk at work. Sometimes it's truly how I feel. HAHAHA

Back to School Fashions??? Maybe short on cash....

2009-08-10T18:41:00.001-07:00

Cute daughter asked if I'd make her up a couple skirts for back-to-school. Modeled by Flora, this cute fabric goes well with an already turquoise blouse she has. It hits just below her knees, and she actually likes it~~~

Little Birdie Secrets had a great idea. Do you have old beaded necklaces lying around?? Make a bracelet with the beads. There is also a great tutorial at the website. I probably should have followed it exactly, instead of just going off of memory. OKAY....seriously check out Little Birdie Secrets bracelet. OH SO CUTE! I made a couple with some fabric we had, and got some compliments at work. HEY......

Along with a blury but, matching bracelet for cute daughters skirt.

So....if you can't tell, we're in the count down to back to school. I think the kids are ready. It's just sad that summer is coming to a close.

More cheap B-T-S ideas to come????? Share if you have some!!!

Put this on a pillow: The seasons please the senses differently; feel summer, smell autumn, taste winter, and see spring.

2009-08-08T08:42:00.000-07:00

"In my pretty garden the flowers are nodding

They're first to see the sun

They must tell everyone.

In my pretty garden the flowers are nodding."

Sunflower heaven in our garden. Like daisy's they to are a happy flower. I enjoy them now, knowing soon, they will droop their bright yellow heads, giving me a warning, that fall is just around the corner.
The wind blew and blew and blew.....

Blowing most of this beautiful shade tree over, and smashing half of my raspberry patch. Only to blow again the next evening, dropping more branches.

The lightening was crazy to. It was so close to us, we're certain it hit the field right outside our home. My mouth felt a little static and the thunder popped us right out of our bed. But the eariest part of all was the battery operated games that TURNED ON in the game closet. FREAKY!!!!!

We had a few hours of no power, a couple days of no phone and no internet.

LASTLY....with $10.00 in my wallet and a York Peppermint Patty tucked in my bag, I headed to the theatres to see "Julie and Julia" ($10.00 you say???? Yes I went alone).IT WAS WONDERFUL! You have to see it. GO-GO-GO!!!!!! I want to go again today. But since it's raining at our Small House, I'll stay inside and get something done, and visit some great blogs.
Have a wonderful day!!!

Put this on your pillow: We write our own destiny. We become what we do. ~Madame Chiang Kai-Shek

2009-08-04T10:33:00.000-07:00

A week of guilt is where I've been. It's hard when I leave for work, and my youngest son is left home by himself. It's not like we have neighbor friends. We just don't. My cute daughter was in California last week with friends from school. So there sent young son. My nights were swimming in the pop up pool, watching movies, and just hanging out with him. Guilt....it's a killer. THUS.....harldy any blogging, no crafting.

DO YOU FIND THAT WHEN YOU ARE SO BUSY, AND YOU DON'T DO SOMETHING YOU ENJOY FOR A BIT, YOU START TO FEEL ITCHY?????? By Sunday that was me. However, I had seen these really cute pin cushions at Marins Creations Check out the yummy food she serves her family to!!!! So Sunday night I quietly sat by myself in the kitchen, pulled out the hot glue gun and played for a bit. (Cute boy is at EFY BYU this week)

We have "Quilt Block of the Month" every first Thursday night of the week at the church. One of these will be a giveaway. So thanks to Marin for finding these and linking on her blog.

The red one is mine.

The winner of the giveaway I had last week goes to KASEY HUNT!!!! She's on my sidebar. WOOT! WOOT!

Looking forward to catching up on some fun stories, great ideas, and just plain seeing what you cute blogging friends have been up to!!!

Put this on a Pillow: Live Simply, Love Generously, Care Deeply, Speak Kindly, and Leave the Rest to God.

Yummy Salad, and a Quick Read

2009-07-26T19:14:00.000-07:00

I love childrens literature. Much more than adult literature. I think "A Year Down Yonder" is one of the cutest books ever. I seriously laughed out loud. That grandma is a riot.

I finished this book about a week ago, and wanted to pass it on. Funny thing is, I recognized this little girl in myself when I was small. Not the same parents, just the same type of thinking. (now you know I'm crazy. Ida B talks to trees :)

If you read a chapter a night with your children, this might be a fun one to read together. Hope you enjoy it as much as I did.

Nearing the end of our raspberries. I wanted to share a favorite recipe of ours using raspberries. I always freeze some, making this recipe on Christmas Eve. It's kind of a little summer in the winter.

You need:

1 small pkg. vanilla pudding (NOTINSTANT)

1 small pkg. tapioca

1 small pkg. flavored gelatin

12 oz. Cool Whip

Desired fruit. Of course you want it to work with whatever gelatin you use.

Combine the 3 pkgs. with 3 cups of water. Boil until clear. Cool mixture, and let thicken. Add Cool Whip, and then fold in fruit. If you are using frozen fruit, thaw and drain off excess juice.

This is so yummy! We enjoyed it last night with our bacon, lettuce and tomato sandwiches.

Last day for my little "Summer Essentials" giveaway in honor of HIGH SPEED INTERNET!!! Scroll down a couple posts, and you'll find it! Leave a message that's all.

Put this on a pillow: I am not afraid of tomorrow, for I have seen yesterday and I love today. ~William Allen White

Harvest Sharing

2009-07-26T18:27:00.000-07:00

A fun a quick way to share your excess harvest. These plastic containers are 4 for $1.67 at Walmart. You could really doll them up or do what I did and make it quick and painless. Just covered the front with scrapbook paper, using a little glue around the edges. Added a flower and filled with raspberries.

They were appreciated by a few widows in our church, and all they have to do is peal off the paper, throw the container in the dishwasher and the glue is gone.

Somewhat tired of canning, so thought I might finally do something different and address this chair that I found at the DI a few weeks ago. It had a dingy white vinyl cushion that needed replaced.

Got lucky at Walmart and found this large remnant for $2.00.

TA-DA.

Pretty, easy and cheap. The best kind of projects.

I'm offering a small "Summer Essentials" giveaway in the last post. Scroll way to the bottom of the post. Just leave a message, that's it.

Well....a new week begining tomorrow. I'm now beginning to talk myself into going to work and feeling overwhelmed for another week. I CAN DO THIS!!!! Am I the only one that has to talk themselves into Monday's????

Put this on a pillow: An important part of praying is a willingness to become part of the answer ~Nona Baker

Celebrating the 24th in my Kitchen. AND A GIFT FOR SOMEONE!!!!!

2009-07-24T19:01:00.000-07:00

A little something for one of you at the end of this post!!!!

Today is Pioner Day. A day we celebrate the coming of the pioneers to Utah. Instead of going to the parks and parties around our valley, I....

Picked raspberries....

Preserving 7 more jelly jars of frozen raspberry jam, freezing raspberries for salads later, bottling raspberries, and freezing raspberries.

Picked bags and bags of beans. Then snipped and bottled jars and jars. Even though I couldn't celebrate in style, I think it goes right along with a pioneer theme. You can't help but have a little satisfaction when you see what will sit on your shelves and feed your family. HOWEVER....this is only the beginning of the beans, it was only our first picking!!!! OH NO!

It was my first time using a pressure cooker!!!! AUGH!!! Scared me to death. I did a STUPID thing, and a hot-hot-hot jar blew up all over me. Luckily I had a scarf on, and so it didn't scald me worse then it did. Now I know NOT WHAT TO DO!!!

This week I received a fun surprise..... A spring swap from Jenny at http://simplyafamily.blogspot.com/ The spring swap was started by Cherie at http://bakowbabble.blogspot.com/

Surprises are always a treat. I was a lucky duck I must say. And want to thank Jenny for being so thoughtful. I've already used the bag and enjoyed the magazine at our Open House for work. Cute sign hu?????

I also received a "Pay it Forward" surprise in the mail. This came from Shortmama at http://familyofshorts.blogspot.com/ She did a little snooping around my blog and sent me a few things that make my day!!!! Thank you to a very kind Shortmama. I'm looking forward to doing the same in the near future.

NOW......

SOMETHING FOR YOU!!!!!! WHY???????? Well............... I got a phone call from my cute daughter last week, and heard 6 words I've been waiting to here!!!!!
"Mom, we have high speed internet". CAN YOU BELIEVE IT? It took a total of 2 MINUTES to download my pictures!!! SERIOUSLY, IT IS HEAVEN!!!! I haven't had the opportunity to truly enjoy it, but that's about to change!!!!!

I'd like to offer a small gift to one of you blogger ladies in honor of this SMALL HOUSE MILESTONE!!!!!

Lets call it our

SUMMER ESSENTIALS

You can choose a pair of these must have for summer - "flip flops". The pink are size 8 or the aqua which is a size 10. If you think you could use both pair, just let me know!!!

Of course you don't want naked toes... and my FAVORITE "Twist & Pout" lip gloss. According to the sign at Dillards this is an Oprah favorite (if that means anything to anybody). I use this lip gloss a lot! It's just a clear gloss that makes your lips sweet and shiny.

My new summer favorite lotion! "Johnson's Bedtime and Bath". LOVE IT!!!! And a summer smelling candle I use in my Small House.

A couple extra things, and you can finish out the summer with a smile!

Just leave a comment.......

Drawing will end Tuesday night. Late Tuesday night!

Thanks for being such great blogging friends. Sharing words of encouragement, ideas, and kindness.

Put this on a Pillow: Everyone is entitled to relax and enjoy the life that has been given to them.

Here's What I Do

2009-07-22T08:51:00.001-07:00

Each day I drag myself out of my house, and away from who and what I love most and off to work I go. I'd prefer not to do this, but that's the hand I've been dealt. With that said, I feel fortunate to have a good job, with good people to work with, and a worthy cause.

I work for a Nonprofit Housing Corporation. This particular Nonprofit Housing Corp. helps people with a limited income get into a home of their own.

We help groups of 6 -12 famililes build their own homes. It takes about 8 - 10 months for these families to do this, but the results are wonderful. The families work hard, and are required to put in 35 hours a week.

The results are a beautiful home for them to live in!

A year after the "Open House" they usually have their yards in, and their privacy fence in place.

They have a lot of varity of homes to choose from.

Today we have an OPEN HOUSE for a group of 12 families. The families are excited for this day to come, which means tomorrow they can move into their new home!!

Seriously, they actually have larger homes then me, and they get a sprinkler system, which I think would be WONDERFUL if I had one.

THIS WEEK has been full of surprises. I got a "Pay it Forward" in the mail!! A "Sring Swap" in the mail, and a fun gift from my "Secret Sister". Which I'll be sharing in my next post. ALONG WITH.....A little gift from me to one of you. In honor of a MILESTONE at our house. I'm celebrating! See you soon!!!!!

Put this on a pillow: The Constitution only guarantees the American people the right to pursue happiness. You have to catch it yourself. ~Benjamin Franklin

Random Thoughts....

2009-07-19T21:27:00.000-07:00

This is my favorite time of year. It's hot outside, and your are forced into the heat to care for your garden.

In the middle of January, when I'm looking out my kitchen window toward the garden, I think of this very time of year. Everything is growing, and you are beginning to harvest all your hard efforts. (OKAY....seriously, my husbands hard efforts)

My favorite place is in the raspberry patch. No one wants to pick raspberries, so there you are, alone in the quiet with a moment to think, to pray, and even listen.

Today is our 24th wedding anniversary. I can't help it, but on big days such as New Years, birthdays, and anniversaries wonder "What will this next year bring?" This year instead of waiting for what the year will bring, I'm saying "By this time next year....."

a. I'll have grown my hair out again.
b. Lost 15 pounds. (I set this same goal with every goal setting process I go through. EXCEPT...I've changed it from 20 pounds to 15)
c. Keep my car clean!
d. Bake for my family at least once a month. As in, homemade cookies, cakes, cinnamon rolls etc. OH MY WORD THEY'LL FLIP!!!
e. Eat out FAR less. The economy is beginning to show it's ugly face at our house.
f. Read the Book of Mormon 3 times.
g. Be more prayerful.

Tonight in the garden I could hear deer calling from the trees behind our home. Sometimes I can step outside our house and scare away a young buck that is eating the plants around my pond. I think hey....it's either the deer or the pesky muskrats that are now living in our pond. I prefer the deer. It's quite a sight to see the young deer dash through the field. I'm not sure if he's alone. Tonight I wondered who he was calling to.

The hollyhocks grow wild just off the garden. They are one of my favorite flowers. It's always a surprise as to what color they will be. I don't think they are the same color twice.

I hope you had a wonderful Sunday. I'm still wondering if I'm ready for Monday to be here.

Put this on a pillow: "If we fill our hours with regrets over the failures of yesterday and worries over the problems of tomorrow, we have no time in which to be thankful for the laughter and the sunshine, the love and the joy of today." ~Lilian Hart

2009-07-18T13:31:00.000-07:00

Camera found! And with a little bit of air from a can, I was able to blow some of the sand out of my camera. It actually works now!!!

We had such a good time 4 wheeling a week ago, I really wanted to share.

All loaded up, and ready to go. It's an awful lot of work to get to this point, you wonder if it will be worth it! And yes it was.

This is where we went. Just west of a little town called Nephi. (I love that name)

These two couldn't wait to get out on the dunes. Our truck over-heated, and to keep it cooler we had to drive with the air condition off, and the heater on! Don't ask me why the heater on. I'm not the mechanic. It really does help it stay cooler. . By the time we arrived I was a little car sick. I stayed at the camp that first afternoon. It was great though. We were the only campers in the campground. WONDERFUL!

The dunes are amazing. It was nothing like the kids expected. To them it was as if they were riding around in Africa or somewhere far more exotic then the outskirts of Nephi.

While the kids were attempting to climb "Sand Mountain" on their 4 wheelers, Mike and I posed for a little shot.

Sometimes, all there is, is sand. And it NEVER stopped blowing!

I was waking up for days with sand coming from my eyes.

We missed our oldest son! This is something he would have truly loved to have participated in. We'll certainly go again when he returns home. I have to say though, my mind was on him all weekend. And I missed him alot!

It was a wonderful day!!!

Put this on a pillow: The best thing you can spend on your children is time!

Where is my camera?

2009-07-16T08:11:00.000-07:00

This past week or so has flown by. We had so much fun at the sand-dunes. I dropped my camera which we had to back track and find. But because of all the sand, my camera no longer works. However, I can still retrieve pictures from it. BUT....I don't know where I put it. I'm using an even crumbier camera than the old one.

I have to share a great, inexpensive, cute idea.

Love to wear skirts. Especially when they can be made without a pattern.

Purchase whatever amount of fabric you need to go around your waist. Trim fabric to be the length you want your skirt. HERE'S A GREAT TIP!!!! If you're lucky, there will be an end of your fabric that will not fray, or need HEMMED!!!! Look for that and use as the bottom of your skirt.... NO HEMMING!!!!

Around the waist area, fold your fabric and then fold again. This allows for the elastic waste.

Sew the folded end shut. I try to stay right on the edge of the fold.

Attach a safety pin to the end of your elastic, and guide through the waste. Pin each end of the elastic to your fabric so it doesn't slip back out while you continue sewing your skirt.

With right sides together, Sew the dress together. It's kind of a bugger when you reach the elastic area, Just remember whose boss!

You can add ribbon etc. to your cute skirt. The skirts take about 20 minutes to make after you figure it out, and you can pick up fabric for around $2.00 a yard a Walmart. CHEAP, FUN, CUTE!

Put this on a pillow: A house is made of walls and beams. A home is built with love and dreams.

Crazy Quilts....Have a wonderful Week

2009-07-06T22:34:00.000-07:00

WOW! It's been one of those weeks. The entire past week has about done me in. I had Friday off of work like most of you, and I couldn't get my mind off of work until Saturday morning. It's totally cramping my style by keeping me busy like it is. I do have this week off........Ahhhhhhhhh, sing the heavens. Not to mention my 86 year old father in-law is dieing, and my husband is having to spend a lot of time with him, since he can't be left alone. Thank heavens for the wonderful angels that visit from Hospice. We are now at a point that it would be a blessing to him if he were to pass away. I've learned, there are worse things than death (sometimes).

ENOUGH OF MY COMPLAINING!

CRAZY QUILTS

I've always loved them. They seem so chaotic. Maybe that's why I'm quite fond of them. I don't know if you've read my post regarding falling airplanes? WELL...if you have, then you would understand that I'm a bit ummmm.....crazy???? Which makes sense, my love for "CRAZY QUILTS".

Look at the hand work that was used on them. Couldn't believe it!

A couple weeks ago I hit a few yard sales. I wasn't having a lot of success, and didn't want to waste my time any longer, and headed home. I hit one more on my way home. It was in an old cinder block garage. Hmmmm.....should I stop? I did and saw these..... I asked the woman how much they were??? She said "Oh, they are sooo old. We just don't know what to do with them anymore. They're antiques you know. How about .50."

Brought them home and gently washed them in my tub. YUCK!!! OH-They were DIRTY!!!

Then hung them out to dry.

DID YOU KNOW....The random practice of piecing odd bits of cloth together was a money saving habit from Colonial times? In the harsh and unfamiliar envinronment of the new world when the coverlets and blankets the colonists had brought with them began to wear out, they were patched until the cloth could no longer hold thread. As they wore out they were recycled. Worn parts were cut away and any useful pieces were made into lovely "Crazy Quilts." NOTE: One's mental balance does not have to be in question to crazy quilt!!! (Caron Collection, "The History of Crazy Quilts. ")

Eventually the plan is to hang one in my front room on a small wall we have.

We are heading out for a couple of days. We have loaded the camper, with food, the truck with four wheelers and going to the "Little Sahara's". I sure hope we all come back in once piece. 4 wheeling on the sand-dunes always makes me nervous.

AND....I've been asked by some of you where I was born, because of my last post. I was born in Vina Del Mar Chile, South America. From what I understand a lovely place. Only the most wise, bright and very whitty come from there. NOT REALLY!!!!! I'm thinking the primitive way of doing a few things, like giving birth probably is the reason I'm the way I am.

HAVE A WONDERFUL WEEK!! Do something fun for me to come back and read about.

Dial Up Down Time & Photo TAG!

2009-07-01T17:23:00.000-07:00

What to do while waiting for internet sites to download because you have dial-up?

Usually I run around cleaning or doing laundry. However work this week is kicken my butt, so I've been doing a little crafting to relax a bit.

Spray painted this from green to white and then made.....

This....

4th of July banner.

Letter "A" - Oh how I love AMERICA

I wasn't actually born in this wonderful country. Everyone else in my family was though. My parents were serving an LDS church building mission (that's how the church built the churches 43+ years ago. They had members build them) and before returning to the states they had their fourth of six children (me).

My mom recorded that when the plane landed she was so happy to be home in the United States of America, she wanted to kiss the black top at the airport! Love that story.

Tonight, I CLEAN! While waiting.... & waiting.... & waiting.... & waiting....

PHOTO TAG from Xazmin

Open your first file and share your 10th picture in that file.

OKAY...I cheated. You've already seen that photo, so I shared the 10th photo from my second folder.

My parents 50th wedding anniversary 2 years ago. My oldest son is standing in the water with his Beatles shirt one and hands in his pocket. Cousins are waiting for the next dare devil to ride the zip line down into the water. It was a fun day.

I TAG: Janice my sister at One Dat at a Time to share her 10th photo from her first folder.

Put this on pillow: This Saturday, do something you have wanted to do for years. Something just for yourself. And repeat this process once every month. ~Denis Waitley (who is this guy? I like his idea though. I'm going to give it a try!!! I'll let you know what I do. If you do something like this on Saturday let me know.... I'd love to hear about it.)

Out to Dry.

2009-06-28T18:45:00.000-07:00

Now that we have been enjoying more sunshine, I'm able to hang the laundry on the clothes-line. I just LOVE the scratchy feel of towels when they've hung outside to dry.

I needed a new bag to put my clothes-pins in, and didn't want to have to take a lot of time to sew a new bag. SEW...(haha) I used an idea I saw floating around.
Picked up this cute little girls summer dress at the thrift store.
Added rick-rack around the bottom (I think I just spelled rick rack wrong, but I'm sick, so I don't care today) and the white flower.
Turned the dress, right sides together, and sewed the bottom shut.

On the back of the dress, unbutton the buttons half way down the back, and then sew the flaps open in the shape of a V. I did this for easy access to the clothes-pins.

Found an old white hanger and hung the dress on it, and sewed a seam under the wire so the dress wouldn't fall off the hanger.

Then out to the clothes line it went. It looked quite cute on the line Saturday with my towels and quilts.

I'll bring it in when not in use so the spiders and wasps don't make it their home-sweet-home. YUCK....to reach in the bag and come out with an unwanted something or other.

Cheer Camp was last week.

Along with another B-Ball camp for the High School.

This time in Southern Utah. It's kind of weird to send your 14 year old son off to camp with no parent supervison. This is when you hope you've taught them and they've listened.

He got home Friday night, and this morning we got an email from their coach telling us one of the boys was diagnosed with the Swine Flu. And of course the boy was on our boys b-ball team. We kept him home from church today. I think he'll be fine. So far no symptoms. Just crazy.

As fun as all these things are....It's nice to get the busy things out of the way.

Put this on a pillow: Until you try you don't know what you can't do.

2009-06-24T09:36:00.000-07:00

Here's an idea...... (are you wondering why on earth this chick is showing me her fridge? Keep reading)

Recently I was reading a magazine and came upon this ad....

Drink tap water. And before you know it, you can stash away $14,694.

You don't always have to drink bottled water. A $3 bottle a day x 365 days x 10 years x 6% interest is $14,694. That could be money in your pocket. Small changes today. Big bucks tomorrow. Go to feedthepig.org for free savings tips.

Now that's a chunck of change!!

Which gave me this idea. Okay, so my bottled water isn't $3.00 a bottle. But it isn't free either. My kids waste more than they drink.

The container on the left is for cold water. The container on the right is for juice. You can find these at Walmart. Different colors etc. Not very expensive either.

Along with matching cups. 1 cup a day. Rinse and re-use. Just like when they were small. I'm thinking abou putting their names on their cups. (Won't they love that? HAHAHAHA)

LASTLY....Sharing a cute platter I found for .75. Thought I was pretty lucky that day. Fun for a summer picnic.

What are you doing to save a little change???

Have a great day!!

Put this on a pillow: "What if you slept? And what if, in your sleep, you dreamed? And what if, in your dream, you went to heaven and there plucked a strange and beautiful flower? And what if, when you awoke, you had the flower in your hand? Ah, what then? ~Samuel Taylor Coleridge

hmmm.......think about that!!!!

I'm a Bit Late to the Cloche Party!

2009-06-18T19:45:00.000-07:00

OH Dear....here I thought I'd post early because I really did think it was tomorrow. But nope....it's today. The cloche party is being hosted by A Stroll Thru Life . I hesitated even joining, because I'm a plain Jane and my jars are quite boring, but every party needs to have a bore attend.

Most of my apothecary jars and containers sit on my mantle.

Nothing Fancy.

Mostly fun. I thought marlbes were a great summer look. Reminice of the old days when marbles were a past time for all little boys. These marbles belonged to my husband when he was a small boy.

He still has the larger marbles. Aren't they called spotters? I can't remember.

Sand from Florida fills this jar. TO BAD it wasn't us that was in Florida enjoying the warm beaches. It was brought back by a friend. The shells are from a trip to Disney Land a couple years ago.

I just had to share the little nest that's filled with more shells from our California trip.

We've spent the past couple of weeks playing basketball. Our youngest son was chosen to attend basketball camps with his highschool. (OH MY WORD....DID I JUST SAY YOUNGEST SON AND HIGH SCHOOL IN THE SAME SENTENCE???)

Last week they attended the USU-Aggies team camp, and we had a lot of fun watching him play. He made a shot from half court at the buzzer, and miraculously, it went in.

We just attended Utah Summer Games this past Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, with a group of his friends that threw a team together. It was a riot!

Of course I love a reason to get away from the daily grind. This team did great!!!! They had 6 practices, and won their bracket. They ended up playing for the bronze, and lost by 3 points. To a team that has played together since fourth grade. Oh the moms on the other team were bawling, and one mom said to me why crying, "OH...we are so happy, because this is their last game together and they've been playing since 4th grade." And while acting all sympathetic I'M THINKING.... "ARE YOU KIDDING ME?!!!! You've been playing together for 5 years and you only won us who have had 6 practices by 3 points????!!!"

It was really a lot of fun.

The "shaggy DA" taking a little break during a free throw. My word he played hard. (He did get his hair trimmed the next day after this photo)

One tired kid!! The ride home was sure quiet.

Tomorrow back to work. As much as I don't want to go to work, I am grateful that I have a job, that we don't live in our car, or a tent, or a shelter. We are blessed. And I will smile that all is well.

Have a great day!!!

2009-06-11T08:33:00.000-07:00

Today it seems as though we will soon be needing one of these.

It's been raining for what seems like weeks. OKAY...maybe 2 weeks. It doesn't seem like it will ever let up. HOWEVER...since I'm not in charge of this lovely world, and someone far more knowledgeable than me calls the shots, I'll let Him decide what it is we need, and try not to complain.

Although...a little sunshine would be nice. Just a little.

In the meantime...

"BEE HAPPY"

Put this on a pillow: Anyone who says sunshine brings happiness has never danced in the rain.

A Tisket a Tasket, a Pillow in my Basket

2009-06-07T19:41:00.000-07:00

Me oh my....Mr. Digis (the high speed internet man) stopped by to make my high speed internet life! The verdict.... "to many trees". I can't take it anymore~~~ WAH, WAH, Somebody call the Wahmbulance!!!!!!! Still livin with dial-up.

A basket lover that I am.....

$2.00 at the local thrift store.

Stacked on the other basket at the bottom of our stairs next to the front door. Makes for a great spot for a little reminder pillow to my family.....

I'd love to find an old fishermen basket on the cheap side. There are a few at the Antiques and Collectibles store. HU - UH...$15 or more. It's got to be a better deal than that.

Put this on a pillow: "Listen honey...the dress is by Ralph Lauren. The body chocolate chip".

HEY....Have a good day! And check out my sidebar for some fun giveaways!! You'll be glad you did!

Window Treatments

2009-06-04T14:11:00.000-07:00

Last week after heading home from the Salt Lake area, where I got to meet a very kind, gracious and giving blogging friend, I stopped at a couple thrift stores, lovingly called the DI. I Found an old plaster of paris rose picture. Small, and quaint for a buck.

What I really liked (alot) about this item was the old box that it was in. Cool HU?!!

A month or so ago, I hung an old window above my little hutch. I knew it looked lonely, but I'd slowly work on it. The roses had a home.

Hung with ribbon. But still a lonely window. Then I remembered an old shelf that I purchased weeks ago at "Somebody's Attic". A local thrift store that all proceeds go to Women and children that suffer from physical and sexual abuse.

Didn't even have to paint the shelf. It had a white washed look and beat up enough to match the old window. Scrubbed the shelf "Mr. Clean - Mr. Clean" (singing, not good).

It's starting to come together. Still a work in progress. It still needs something to give it a little punch. I'll find what it needs. And of course, you'll be the first to know :) I just love you ladies!!!

Put this on a pillow. Swallow your pride occasionally. It's not fattening.

2009-06-03T06:13:00.000-07:00

I think it's the sunshine and warm weather that causes my heart to stir a bit. Summertime gives me a minute to reflect. I look back on the past four years and wonder "how on earth did I do what was put before me?" It was a rough 4 years personally, but spiritually it was a blessing. (Sorry, I'm kind of showing a different side of me today)

7 months ago I was released as the Stake Young Women's president. I was released and then the following Sunday at my oldest sons mission farewell I was sustained as Relief Society president. It was the holiday season and I wasn't able to think back on the past years of my time serving in Young Women's. BUT lately I've been thinking about the highlights of my experience. And trying to get it all on paper.

THIS IS ONE!!!

The Conference Center is beautiful on it's own. But fill it with 200 plus Young Women, and it becomes in-describable.

9 Stakes filled the choir seats. The bishops called the best of the best. The spirit that these Young Women brought with them was incredible. No one had to have singing ability. Just a desire to love and live the gospel.

I was up for the hard work and challenge, pulling this together for our Stake. And hard work it was!!! (We were also planning the trek) But I have to say I was very relieved when the bishop called my own daughter to sing. (We had no say at all as to who would sing or not) It was wonderful sharing this experience with her. I'm not sure she understood the magnitude of this in her life at the time. But she will.

Each Stake had a check in area, that they could identify with a balloon with the name of there Stake on it. The girls had to have their hair off their face, nylons on (that was a killer for some) and a small amount of make-up.

Okay....here I am with my eyes closed and mouth open. Hmmmm......does she ever stop talking?

Only Women could attend the live broadcast, with the exception of church leaders, so dads and brothers attended the week before for the dress rehearsal. It was incredible to share this moment with families all together. I know our family enjoyed it, and still look back on it as a highlight of spiritual experiences.

He's grown so much in a year. Here he's still a little boy. No he's a mini man.

My word I was tired. After weeks of attending practices, and staying up late or getting up at 2:00 a.m., It was nice having my cute husband with me. Talk about a supportive spouse!

Put this on a pillow: We are daughters of our Heavenly Father who loves us, and we love Him. We will stand as witnesses of God, at all times and in all things and in all places, as we strive to live the Young Women's values which are Faith, Divine Nature, Individual Worth, Knowledge, Choice and Accountability, Good Works, Integrity and Virtue. We believe as we come to accept and act upon these values, we will be prepared to strengthen home and family, make and keep sacred covenants, receive the ordinances of the temple, and enjoy the blessings of exaltation.

The Daisy's are Blooming....If I wasn't behind I would...

2009-06-01T19:46:00.000-07:00

The Daisy's are blooming. A little late this year because of the cold. Don't you think they make everything happy? If I wasn't behind I would have Joined Xamins "Mod Podge" mania on Friday. (Not such a great picture due to dumpy camera.) I wanted something bright to set on this vintage table cloth.

I just love the handwork that someone took the time to add around the edge of her table cloth. I think her morning chores were finished, and the children were playing. Just before she needed to prepare dinner she sat down for a minute or two to work on her projects. LOVE IT!

I don't think she barged through the door each evening, yelled hello to her family, threw a load of clothes in the washer, began a quick meal, looked around her messy house, only to sigh. She wasn't like me. Her day was organized and tidy. (I live vicariously through other people)

I found the tray CHEAP at Hobby Lobby, painted it red, and Mod Podged scrapbook paper to the inside adding my FAVORITE....Rick Rack.

Xamin also tagged me: 6 Unimportant Things that Make Me Happy.....

1. Flip flops. LOVE flip flops. Yes I wear them to work. No one has told me not to, which means they must not care. Wearing flip flops means #2 is...

2. Painting my toenails. Who wants to see naked feet? Besides the polish distracts from my odd looking toes. Grateful for toes I am, but my toes look like aliens.

3. Book marks. WOW...I just love them. I have a box I keep them in. I like to open my book or scriptures and have a cute book mark.

4. Candles. I lite my candles the minute I get home. I don't care if there are 3 different scents throughout my house. Burn baby burn!

5. Good shampoo. I can't always afford it. But wow, I like the feel of my hair when I use it.

6. Johnsons Baby Bedtime Bath and Lotion!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Happy Birthday Gladys!! (not her name) She's 17 today. Next school year she'll be a senior. Sad, sad, sad. Then off she goes to study nursing. Can't imagine my life without her here.

Put this on a pillow: "Of this you may be certain; the Lord especially loves righteous women - women who are not only faithful, but filled with faith, women who are striving to live and serve as women of God." ~M. Russell Ballard

Dollar Store Challenge....a little late

2009-05-28T06:18:00.000-07:00

An old yard sale chair finds it's home under our tree, next to the garden. I love to find old chairs at yard sales.

A few weeks ago, I joined a dollar store challenge. Like most weeks of mine, it took an un-expected turn and I never got it posted. I thought my dollar store challenge idea really turned out kind of dumb. HOWEVER...my daughter liked it.

Her plan, to attach a magnet onto the back, find some cute push pins (we can make them cute) and use them for her locker next year at school. OKAY....that's an idea. She has to give simple gifts to the other cheerleaders at one point this summer, and thinks that this might be an idea.

This might be an idea for Young Women's, Activity Days, or any youth group activity.

The cork board comes in a pkg. of 4. They are approx. 4 1/2" square.

Mod podge the cork board.

Add the pre-cut scrapbook paper, embelish, and mod podge over the paper and embelishments.

Simple-cheap. Just how we like it. It works for a teenage girl.

Put this on a pillow: The world isn't so big that you do not make a difference just by living your life.

2009-05-25T20:32:00.000-07:00

Remembering those we love....

And spending a fun day with the ones that still fill our days with memories.

Every girl needs a Raggady Ann

Sweet baby

Others stopped by, remembering this little girl that touched our hearts and lives.

And so....We decided to ride our bikes into a neighboring town just north-east of our home. The plan...to stop at A&W for a rootbeer freeze.

And we're off! Round trip = 15 miles. AUGH!!!!!

We're sticking together. Nobody has ditched their very slow mother

We trudged UP-HILL most of the way there. I was exausted. (note: I'm the only one that has no exercise/move your body routine)
FINALLY....We arrive at A&W. Since I don't like ice cream, I enjoyed just a little and passed it off to my daughter. Was okay about that. I didn't want to loose all those calories I just burned off.

On our way back, the cows were cheering us on!!!

Just as the Primary/Childrens song says:

"I'm glad that I live in this beautiful world. Heavenly Father created for me."

OKAY...I have to be completely honest. My husband, feeling bad for me zipped home ahead of me, got the truck and came back to pick me up! I only went 11 miles. HAHAHAHA
Be it known though....I was not complaining!!! Maybe it was the sweat dripping from my face, and the look of "I'M GOING TO DIE" that let him know I was on my last leg

Put this on a pillow: Families are Forever (thank heavens)

***Domestic Fashionista is having a 100 post giveaway!!!!! Her blog is great!***

Least Favorite Question

2009-05-22T06:43:00.000-07:00

They say (who is they?) that there are no dumb questions. WELL, I BEG TO DIFFER!!!!

This is definitely my worse, despised, send shivers up my spine question...

I can have walked through the door and with no hello, how are you... I get asked,

"What's for Dinner?."

JUST VENTING!!!!!

TONIGHT...PIZZA! Like it or not. I've got laundry :)

Put this on a pillow: Burnt toast is actually fairly symbolic to motherhood. If you're the one who burned the toast, you scrape it off and eat it yourself. If they burned it, you eat it because they burned it specially for you ~EmilyWatts

2009-05-20T17:11:00.000-07:00

I used to have a purple door. YEP...you heard it, purple. My sister seriously made fun of it. Not in a nice way either. Last year it was painted red. Which changed everything for the front porch decor.
I don't care so much about the front porch during the winter months. But SUMMER.... It's heaven to me. And I want the front porch to say...

"Hello, come on in!"

In the corner, a vintage red childs folding chair. It has a twin and a small card table to go with it. FUNNY...how it's "vintage." It was once my husbands. HAHAHA Made the pillow a few months ago for my kitchen. Moved it out to the front porch. Flowers guaranteed not to die.

All the pots were spray painted with Krylon paint / Celery.

Found a great yellow bird house 50% off at a boutique on Federal Ave. I would have never paid full price. But felt okey doke about it at this price.
Who lives at this house? Whoever it is, their last name must begin with an R.

Purchased the R at HOBBY LOBBY, and covered with some funky fun scrapbook paper. JUST like the rest of you groovy ladies do.

So much more to do and add. But it's a start!!

Enjoy everything sunshine and summer you can. Before we know it.....We'll be wishing for the sunshine and summertime.

Put this on a pillow: A true friend is someone who is there for you when he'd rather be anywhere else.

Here's an Idea....

2009-05-19T05:41:00.000-07:00

Here's an idea for Young Women's or a youth group.

This Tie Dye kit is $10.00 at Walmart.

These cute girls got together Saturday night at our house and went tie dye crazy.

My daughter told her YW class about it on Sunday and they are doing this for their Wednesday night activity.

Head to toe tie dye.

I've been trying to think of something clever to tie dye myself. It looked like so much fun. Except less giggling, dancing, cheerleading and talk with my project.

OKAY...maybe alot of talking.

NOTE: I've BEEN TRYING TO LEAVE COMMENTS AT YOUR WONDERFUL BLOGS THIS MORNING, AND BLOGGER WON'T LET ME!!!! I SURE HOPE THIS IS FIXED SOON!!

Put this on a pillow: Learn something new and then teach it to someone else. You will both have something new and interesting to talk about.