Bluebirds and Bubbles

A New Year

2011-01-05T01:07:00.005-05:00

It's a fresh start to a new year... and what a long year it has been. I'm looking forward to writing on a clean page.

How about you?

2010-10-10T00:00:00.008-04:00

Pumpkin Time!

2010-10-08T01:50:00.001-04:00

Where did this person go?

2010-08-18T22:57:00.001-04:00

Goodbye summer, I hardly knew you.

2010-02-22T18:01:00.001-05:00

Ready for Spring

2010-01-31T13:33:00.002-05:00

The heart has reasons of which reason knows nothing - Blaise Pascal

2010-01-27T11:46:00.001-05:00

Passion Fruit

2010-01-24T14:32:00.000-05:00

2010-01-08T23:25:00.000-05:00

2009-12-08T21:46:00.003-05:00

Orange you glad Christmas is coming!

Today when I walked into my home, the scent of pine from the Christmas tree gave me a great big hug. I love the scents of Christmas! The woodsy smoke of a fire burning, melted candle wax, cookies baking, mulled cider, cinnamon dusted on a fresh brewed cup of coffee...

It's easy to get caught up in the hustle of the season and miss all the beautiful scents of the holiday. If you find yourself rushing just to catch your breath...try this little activity...

Take an orange and some cloves and get lost in the heavenly scent of making a quick and easy...and wonderfully happy decoration. You'll have to slow down for this one! It will make you smile whenever you see and smell it!

The Tree...Before

During

After

2009-12-07T13:30:00.003-05:00

Tree Shopping !

Saturday we went looking for a Christmas tree...

Tradition dictates that we find it at our familiar farm...

My son tagged one right away...

It had started to snow, so we went inside to look at all the beautiful poinsettia plants...

and take the traditional bench photo...

by the waterfall...

We needed the help of a strong, young farmhand to hoist it on top of the car...

This tree is huge!

Here it is before we opened up the rope...about 14 feet tall! We had to buy a new tree stand...and now I need a ladder to decorate it! Stay tuned!

2009-12-07T10:50:00.000-05:00

A good day for soup!

The temperature has dropped below freezing! :(

Barley stew with leeks, mushrooms and greens

1 tablespoon olive oil, divided
1 1/2 cups chopped leeks (about 2 small stalks, white and pale green parts only)
1 8 ounce container sliced baby Bella mushrooms (crimini) or another favorite
2 garlic cloves, pressed
2 1/4 teaspoons minced fresh rosemary
1 14.5-ounce can diced tomatoes in juice
1 cup pearl barley
4 cups vegetable broth
1 bunch kale, (8 ounces) trimmed, center stalks removed, coarsely chopped

Heat oil in large pot. Add leeks; sprinkle with salt and pepper and saute until they soften.
Add mushrooms, garlic, and rosemary until mushrooms soften. Add tomatoes with juice.
Add barley and 4 cups broth; bring to a boil.
Reduce heat, cover and simmer until barley is almost tender. (about 20 min.)
Add kale, stir until wilted.
Cover and simmer until kale and barley are tender. Add more broth as needed for desired consistency.

How was your weekend?

I finally got the Christmas tree! That's an adventure for another post! I went to a local art/craft show...one my daughter used to dance at...found some cute stocking stuffers. It was rather strange watching the girls on stage and not looking for my daughter...a little more relaxing too. :)

It snowed on Saturday... a wet slushy snow that draped all the trees and came down in heavy flakes big enough to catch in your mouth! It teetered around freezing, forcing us to stay off the roads and hang out at home around the fireplace.

2009-12-05T07:06:00.003-05:00

What hat are you wearing today?

It was still dark when I woke up today...rested. Do you feel like you're getting away with something when this happens? I do. Bonus hours!

In the stillness of the house, my thoughts were free to pop up all over the place like mushrooms...or maybe it had nothing to do with the quiet, and more to do with the the fact that the growing conditions were just right for such thoughts. Lots of manure perhaps, ha!

Growth.

It's funky, musky business. Sometimes it stinks. Sometimes it's nutty and smooth and drenched in an intoxicating wine sauce.

Growth.

Sometimes, we think we're on the right path until we look up and realize we have no idea where we are. Sometimes we know it's the wrong path, but can't figure out the directions or read the signs. We've listened to people we met along the journey who've told us who they think we should or shouldn't be...what we should eat, do, think, take, love, make... Who we should be!

We take their advice, trying it on like a hat. Sometimes it fits, sometimes it feels clownish...too big or small. We carry it with us on our walk until we come to a point where we realize it no longer fits us, and we drop it like a pebble...behind us. We try on different these "hats,"... searching for the right fit.

Sometimes we lose ourselves in the process... caught up in the fantasy of make-believe. It was fun while it lasted, but now we have to follow the bread crumbs back home. Sometimes in the dark, by ourselves. Sometimes arm in arm with those we love. Always changed in some important way.

You know when you get there, because every sense in your being says....ahhh, this feels like home. Why did I wait so long to come back!

Growth.

Enjoy the journey, silly hats and all!

2009-12-04T16:21:00.001-05:00

Decking the halls...

Have a great Friday night! (snow possible tomorrow)

2009-12-03T17:16:00.003-05:00

Elijah Update

I sponsor Elijah, a little boy in China. It's hard to believe that he is 14 months old! Look how much he's grown! He's living with a foster family and doing very well.

2009-12-03T16:41:00.005-05:00

The pups decked out for Christmas!

Catching up!

It's been a month since I've posted. I had a lot going on this month and took a little break. It's been a bit overwhelming, but I think I'm back on track now...just in time for the holiday season!

I've been busy with my son's school concerns, but they are all worked out now. I've also been doing a little introspective work...trying to figure out the big picture...ha,ha.

But anyway,

Christmas is coming!!!!! Are you excited!

You know I love the Christmas season, and hope to have a jam-packed schedule of fun!

I recently saw the 3-D version of scrooge...pretty cool...nothing like that movie to jump start the holiday!

I missed you all! I haven't checked a single blog in a month!!!

We had a quiet Thanksgiving at home. I cooked all day and everything was so yummy. My daughter came home from school for a few days. It was fabulous to spend some time with her. I miss her, but love hearing about all her adventures.

Thanksgiving ...

My beautiful daughter!

After dinner...

I'm excited to be getting ready for the holidays... the baking and decorating await!

2009-11-02T20:01:00.005-05:00

Dia De Los Muertos

My son is studying Spanish in school. In the Mexican and Latino cultures, Day of the Dead is celebrated on November 1 and 2. We celebrated by decorating, making sugar skulls, eating special foods, decorating masks and creating an ofrenda.

Sugar Skulls

Masks

Pan de Meurtos

Albondigas

Tamales

My son's nicho

2009-11-01T10:48:00.001-05:00

My daughter as Edgar Allan Poe!

2009-10-30T21:33:00.008-04:00

Trick or Treat Night
Tonight was trick or treat night. I was so behind this year that things didn't get as organized as I would have liked.

Beemer was a vampire.

Bentley was a devil. I had a different devil costume for him, but Beemer wouldn't leave him alone. He kept biting him. All and all the costumes were a bust this year.

Can't you just hear them saying..."this sucks!"

The set up this year wasn't too elaborate. I was really disappointed, but I just didn't have the time.
Usually, my daughter helped hand out candy. We missed her this year.

Even the pumpkins this year were really basic.

There really wasn't a theme...

Nothing seemed to be working out this year. I had problems with my camera too.

I like the effect of these spooky, blurry shots. My camera wasn't cooperating and I couldn't capture the image I had in my mind....but, we had fun playing around with the fog machine.

Next year I'm going to do a better job!

2009-10-27T14:14:00.000-04:00

Yikes!
It's almost Halloween and I'm not ready!

2009-10-21T21:12:00.004-04:00

Fireplace Banner

Last year I made this simple banner for the kitchen fireplace.

This year I added a few pom-pom like embellishments to it.

2009-10-20T18:42:00.002-04:00

I need a magic potion

I've been sitting around...making Halloween hats...

and still decorating the house...

instead of doing all that boring stuff that needs to be done!

2009-10-18T22:58:00.002-04:00

A little bite of heaven

Click here to feast your eyes on something truly wonderful!

http://www.crumbs.com/cupcakes/signature

2009-10-16T13:38:00.001-04:00

Witch Hat
Having fun making these little hats.

2009-10-15T15:23:00.003-04:00

My daughter is a Punkin'...awww I love her.

That reminds me of her first Halloween costume.... when she was a little bitty punkin' Pumpkin!

2009-10-13T12:28:00.005-04:00

Mountain Dew Cupcakes?

My son has been wanting me to make these bad boys for awhile now. I finally made them.
They are definitely lemony! There was also a Mountain Dew laced icing which I made. Way too sweet for me. (and that's saying something) I ended up adding cream cheese to cut the sugar.
You could use your own icing recipe. I think they'd be great with marshmallow cream on top too...tinted green, of course.

Mountain Dew Cupcakes

1 cup butter

2 cups sugar

4 large eggs

3/4 cup Mountain Dew

1/4 cup of lemon and lime juice

lemon and lime zest

1 1/2 teaspoons lemon extract

1 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder

1/4 teas. salt

Beat butter on med. for 30 seconds. Add sugar and lemon/lime zest. Beat until fluffy.

Add eggs one at a time.

Whisk flour, baking powder and salt. Add to above ingredients and mix.

Add Mountain Dew, lemon/lime juice and extract. Mix.

Scoop into cupcake liners. Fill 2/3 full.

Bake at 350 until tester comes out clean.

Frost with your favorite icing with a teaspoon of lemon extract added and tinted green.

2009-10-12T19:20:00.002-04:00

Shadow Box Swap

Marlene said she was opening the box on Monday...so, hopefully she did. If not, and you are reading this Marlene...look away!

The shadow box I made for my swap partner.

Above the fireplace...before sending it off.

I really enjoyed making this and hope to make a similar one to keep.

2009-10-11T18:38:00.006-04:00

Junkin' finds

I got up extra early today to hit the junkin' spots. It was cold outside. Yuk!

I wasn't too lucky today, but here are a few of my finds...

Old books with some cool titles...

Vintage fabric, trim and buttons...(which will end up in my art)

Vintage shoe clips which I got because of the lily-of-the-valley design...ohh these are special!

A few pins...

And this really cool metal, with glass insert jar...

2009-10-11T17:58:00.008-04:00

Renaissance Faire

Through the iron gates... to the castle door...

and near the mansion...
We were ready for a day of fun...

The stage was set...
for jousting...

and an elephant?

Of course, my favorite part is the food...which consisted of strawberry chocolate crepes, fries, funnel cake, steak-on-a-stick, turkey wings, pierogies, hot mulled wine....hmmmm, oh yeah...

and,

Pickles on a stick!

I love seeing the actors and the attendees dressed for the faire...

There were so many photo opportunities...

The faire was decorated for the season...

Look at this ugly pumpkin...

My favorite display was this giant pumpkin!

To give you an idea of its size...here is my son behind it.

And I found a really cool mask for Halloween...you'll have to wait!

2009-10-10T18:05:00.002-04:00

Spooky SaturdayThe early morning rain spoiled some of our plans.

In addition, Beemer jumped from a chair and hurt his leg. It required a visit to the Emergency Vet since our regular vet has very short hours on Saturday. (they close at 11:30...what gives?) Anyway, I heard the squealing from the other room, so I'm not sure what happened. I think he jumped off the chair and landed funny on one of his hard chew bones that is shaped like a pointy ear since that is all that was around him. He won't put any weight on it and hobbles around on three legs.
Luckliy, there were no broken bones...they think it is just a soft tissue injury. One thing is for sure, it has really slowed him down. He's usually into everything and going about 100 miles per hour. Hopefully, he mends quickly.
I've been working on some Halloween art...like the skull above...and more shadow boxes.

2009-10-09T20:38:00.002-04:00

Halloween Count Down
I sent my daughter, who is away at college, this Halloween countdown...little treat filled packages marked with the days... to open each day until Halloween.

Looking forward to posting my shadow box swap when my partner gets it.
Happy Friday everyone!

2009-10-07T19:17:00.003-04:00

Sweet and Sinister Swap

Lisa got the swap that I sent her, so now I can post pictures.

Here are some of the things I sent her.

Here's the homemade item that I made.

Here is the package boxed up...

2009-10-05T15:00:00.003-04:00

Treasure Hunting

It was a beautiful day yesterday to walk around at all the outdoor antique markets. I found a few treasures...here's a few of my favorites.

Vintage Halloween decor

A penguin pair

This really cool glass martini set...I LOVE this!

2009-10-05T08:39:00.002-04:00

Swap received!!
Sweet and Sinister hosted by ArstyMama.

This is the swap that I got from Elizabeth (Lisa) . My family ate the candy already! (Sweet)
Thank you Lisa...I love it!

I'll share what I sent her when I hear that she got her package.

2009-10-03T10:05:00.004-04:00

Home is where you hang your hat...
Slip off your boots...

and bake your cupcakes!

2009-10-01T08:01:00.002-04:00

My daughter and friends dressed up for a Great Gatsby gathering at The Met!

2009-09-30T13:13:00.014-04:00

Gather all your pets...

It's time to play strong...

Hey Bentley, what are you doing lounging around....it's party time!

Grab the balloons....

and the cake...

get a pal and your favorite chew toy...

Replace that frown...

with a smile...

It's time to celebrate....

Wear your finest attire...

Put on your party hats....

Strike up the band and...

Join The Pet Parade! Click on the badge above to visit our host, The Katillac Shack to see all the fun and a list of participants. Thank you Kelee... for choosing my scarf as a winner in the Cheerful Applique and Handiwork category!

Watch the video below and see Bentley wearing his scarf! It's a beautiful, touching video!

Leave A Comment On the parade post at The Katillac Shack! Each comment earns an extra dollar for the cause!

Click here to watch the video on YouTube.

Thank you Kelee and participants for all your love and support for our furry friends!

2009-09-29T17:32:00.002-04:00

Three things that I'm liking today...

1. Pixel the fair fish is enjoying his new home.

2. Half-way through The Lost Symbol and liking it.

3. Card I made for my daughter as she gets ready to go to a Great Gatsby Ball.

2009-09-28T16:53:00.002-04:00

Halloween is coming!

Beemer...our little devil.
* photoshopped by my son*

* converted to blogger by my other son :)

2009-09-27T17:55:00.006-04:00

A Fall Tradition

We've been going to the same farmer's market every year since my children were babies.
In addition to the usual fall decor, they have a pumpkinland for the little ones. It's always fun to see if there have been any changes to the display.

The colors of Fall are just so stunning...

The Halloween Decor is finally starting to come out of boxes...

Stay tuned for the start of spook season....booooooooooooo!

2009-09-25T21:22:00.004-04:00

Fair Season

We went to the fair tonight...for French Fries...

Funnel Cakes...

and Fish!

No one won a giant monkey...

For later....caramel apples and cotton candy!

Earlier today, I met a friend for lunch at this cool 50's diner.

Look...it seems like my coffee cup is big enough to swim in...ha.

2009-09-25T14:04:00.002-04:00

Welcome Fall

It's apple cider time and so much more. This is my most favorite time of the year. Fair season has started and pumpkins are everywhere! I've gotten behind on blogging and decorating and just about everything. I'm not sure why. I don't seem to have a lot of energy lately. It might have something to do with the fact that I get up so early with the dogs! I've never stopped longing for those days of my youth when I could stay up late and get by on a few hours of sleep for what seemed like days on end.

Hopefully...this weekend I'll catch up....

2009-09-16T11:25:00.004-04:00

Hot Diggity Dog

A few months ago, I made a scarf to help the Pet Foreclosure Fund over at The Katillac Shack.
The video is ready showing the scarves and the dogs wearing them... and they are planning a blog party to show the video and celebrate.

You can help too. Just read the information below and join the fun.

As read in the email announcement...

"To celebrate you and our efforts I am hosting a Pet Parade Blog Party. That day we will show the video celebrating you and your scarves and pets. The video will also show the presentation to the shelter organization. This should be a landmark event and something we can all be proud of sharing in and accomplishing together!
Here is what you need to do to be a part of this:
On September 30th arrive at The Katillac Shack and also run your Pet Parade post that day with a link to The Shack.
Please post about the Pet Parade Party and invite everyone to participate--they must send their link to us before September 28th.
For every link that posts-- Design Gives Back will donate an extra $3.00 to the fund!!!!
Please post your photos with your scarves and invite your readers to post their pets photos too.
Feel free to post anytime now - about "The Pet Parade Blog Party" letting people know about the party and that they can earn a donation for the Pet Fund by participating."

Send your blog link to Jenn at jhanson@kc.rr.com by September 28.

2009-09-10T23:40:00.003-04:00

Party like a rock star...
my son turns 15.

Happy Birthday!!

2009-09-09T17:48:00.001-04:00

Mushroom Art

2009-09-08T09:07:00.002-04:00

New York
We went to New York over Labor Day weekend.

Does this sight ever get any less stunning?

The boys with the New York skyline in the background as we take the ferry to the Statue of Liberty.
Miss Liberty!

2009-09-03T10:25:00.002-04:00

Where did the week go?

It's been a busy week with the start of school and getting back into the routine. I'm hoping to get back to regular blogging now.

2009-08-31T21:55:00.000-04:00

First day of School

college bound

2009-08-31T09:36:00.003-04:00

We gathered up lots of her belongings...

We rented a van and packed it full...

We got stuck in traffic and lost trying to find a certain building...and we waited in very, very long lines....hours long...

as of 7pm last night..........

She's moved in!!!!

I hardly had time to say good-bye before her new life whisked her away.

My precious daughter is on her own. Have the time of your life!

And....

Remember!!!

We love you!

We'll miss you ....

so much!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2009-08-26T11:00:00.002-04:00

Making Lemonade

Stop to smell the roses...

Grab your glass...

Come over and sit with me... while we listen to Chantal Chamberland.

2009-08-22T18:08:00.003-04:00

Ten Things I'm Liking Today

A pumpkin colored bracelet

A children's storybook

A bluebird cake topper

Peanut butter kiss cookies

Cream cheese filled chocolate fudge cupcakes

Vintage flashcards

A key journal

A funky colorful scarf

The scent of freesia soap

A Halloween Owl (reproduction, but still cool)

2009-08-20T15:48:00.002-04:00

Beemer gets a haircut...

I make strawberry macarons...

Delicate, strawberry and almond-flavored ,meringuelike cookies filled with strawberry cream cheese icing.

2009-08-15T09:36:00.003-04:00

My Flip-Flops

Don't peek if you are in the swap!

It's time for the flip-flop swap and here are mine. The flip-flops are made out of heavy white card stock and decorated with a variety of materials, fabric, ribbons, bits, vintage ticket stubs etc... The straps are velcro strips attached with tiny brads.

I'm excited to see what flip-flops get mailed back to me!

2009-08-13T20:01:00.002-04:00

Pink Cupcakes

Yum!

2009-08-12T18:38:00.000-04:00

Fur Balls

2009-08-10T10:03:00.002-04:00

The Cone Comes Off Today!

For two weeks Bentley has had to wear a cone to protect his eyes. He was rubbing them so much against the rug that he got an infection. It was a loooooong two weeks with that cone.... and the whole house is celebrating now that it is off!!!
Here you can see Beemer holding court as Bentley tries to get in a few Z's!

2009-08-09T21:18:00.002-04:00

Vintage Postcard

I'm flying back into blogging after a much needed break.

2009-07-19T14:50:00.004-04:00

I've decided to stop blogging.

I'm keeping the blog open in case I change my mind down the road.

Thanks to all of you in blogland who made me smile.

2009-07-19T08:19:00.000-04:00

Begin at the beginning and go on till you come to the end; then stop.

Lewis Carroll

2009-07-18T19:35:00.001-04:00

In A World Of Solids, I'm Wearing Plaid

* Monster created by my daughter

2009-07-17T08:32:00.003-04:00

"For what it's worth: it's never too late or, in my case, too early to be whoever you want to be. There's no time limit, stop whenever you want. You can change or stay the same, there are no rules to this thing. We can make the best or the worst of it. I hope you make the best of it. And I hope you see things that startle you. I hope you feel things you never felt before. I hope you meet people with a different point of view. I hope you live a life you're proud of. If you find that you're not, I hope you have the strength to start all over again. "

quote from The Curious Case of Benjamin Button

2009-07-14T18:29:00.000-04:00

2009-07-14T13:57:00.002-04:00

Bright Yellow Flowers

or Blue.
Surprises in the garden feed the soul.

2009-07-10T08:18:00.002-04:00

Pup Pics

The last five days have been all about the puppy...24/7... as I try to train him to ring the bell to go out, and "catch" him before any accidents occur. I've only had a few hours of sleep each night. Thankfully, every night he gets a little bit better at sleeping longer. It's like having a newborn, but I know if I'm consistent now it will pay off later.

I think I'm making a little progress. I've been taking him out often, so there haven't been many accidents. He's aware of the bell ringing and is starting to make the connection. When I ring it, he stops in his tracks and looks up. I'm still waiting for the moment when he rings the bell himself.

He knows his name and usually comes when you call him.

It's interesting to see the differences in his personality and Bentley's. This little guy is a bundle of energy. He definetly has the most energy of anyone in our family, ha ha...which makes for exhaustng days! He LOVES his toys and jumps from one to the other all day. A little spitfire taking on the world and all the other pets.

He's caused quite a stir. Bentley is not sure what to make of him when he chases him and bites his tail. Poor Bentley doesn't defend himself and just scampers away. He can't get a moment's peace. I've been trying to make up for it by giving Bentley a lot more attention and a lot more walks.

In addition, Peaches, our cat, has been constantly underfoot too. She's usually a shy skittish cat, but she's been demanding her fair share of attention from me too! It's really funny. I feel like Doctor Doolittle with all the pets following me around all day.

Digging into the toy pile

He likes to rest on the first step. (I move him to his bed when he's groggy, so no one steps on him)

Go ahead, make my day!

2009-07-07T14:05:00.000-04:00

Meet "Beemer"Yorkie ...born May 1, 2009.

2009-07-05T17:15:00.001-04:00

Scarf

The scarf I decorated to support a Design Gives Back charity to help the dogs affected by recession and foreclosure.

To see more dogs in scarves...go to:
http://www.katillacshack.com/

2009-07-05T09:43:00.000-04:00

Elijah Update- 9 months old

Elijah’s nanny wrote this update:

Elijah knows how to hold the bottle by himself while drinking his formula and is also able to understand what his nanny says. If you tell him to applaud, he will clap his little hands together with a big smile on his face. He sleeps very well too. He always wakes in a good mood. In fact, if you are in the room when he awakes, he will give you a big smile hoping you will pick him up and love on him. When you bring a bottle of milk for him, he is so happy, giving you a big smile and clapping his hands!

2009-07-04T21:16:00.003-04:00

A Simple Fourth
Since we spent most of the day on the road returning from vacation...our 4Th of July was very simple this year.

Chicken, hot dogs and portabellamushrooms on the grill...tomato sandwiches and corn on the cob.

Go ahead...take a bite!
What's hidden inside my patriotic pouch?

A pinched clay bluebird that I made...

Happy Fourth of July!! I hope you're having a blast!

Tonight's Entertainment...

Candy!!

And Cupcakes!

Tonight's sky...nature's fireworks.

2009-07-04T17:51:00.003-04:00

Beach pics

We rented a condo at the beach for a week.

I always feel like I'm "coming home" when I'm near the ocean... which always makes me question why I'm living landlocked...really,really question it. The weather was glorious! We hit the beach everyday.

My children...

Slushies!!

We read books!!!!

We shopped, walked the boardwalks.... ate lots of bad-for-you-food...including fudge, caramel corn, funnel cake, french fries and CANDY!!!

We played mini golf...

We relaxed!

We celebrated my birthday!!! Martini style! Cheers!!

We ate lots of seafood...like this crab bruschetta...

And these hard crabs!!!

We learned about local history at a shipwreck museum and visited a lighthouse!

We drove home in 4th of July traffic!!

Happy July 4th

2009-07-04T17:01:00.006-04:00

My Fall Down The Rabbit Hole

Things were a little crazy in June...

The white rabbit warned me...

not to follow the flamingos..

but, who could blame me after that crazy month...

Maybe I should have listened to that rabbit ... What did the flamingos offer me to drink?

One minute, I'm sitting on a mushroom... having a grand ole time...

before I knew it...

I missed Vanessa's party!

Boy was the Mad Hatter MAD!

Luckily, I'm counting on the fact that Vanessa is more the Alice type, and she'll surely forgive me.

I had the party scene set...

with special savories for treats...

Colorful little cakes were gathered...

And the tea set was ready for pouring...

The flamingos had other plans...it's a bit fuzzy, but I think it has something to do...

with this lovely gift they gave me...

some sea baubles...

and these strange items I keep pulling out of my suitcases....

maybe if I sit here a spell it will all come back to me...

2009-06-21T21:31:00.002-04:00

Calling for Color
Taking time to smell the roses...the first day in a long while where there was absolutely nothing to think about or do... so I slept in and concentrated on taking deep breaths of relaxation...it's been so long since I've had the chance to create anything... looking forward to getting out my brushes and paints tomorrow...

2009-06-20T10:48:00.002-04:00

Recital weekend

Friday was a great opening night...tonight is the final recital for my daughter...14 years of dance.

2009-06-14T21:43:00.006-04:00

June Tradition...making t-shirts.

The boys chose a technology theme. My daughter cut hers into a chic halter style. And I stuck with my mushroom theme.

2009-06-10T17:57:00.018-04:00

This Year

Last Year

Thirteen

Yesterday was my youngest son's birthday.

He chose dinner at his favorite restaurant...Ruby Tuesday's...and ordered his favorite food Buffalo Chicken Burger.

He entered the teen years with a splash...the waitress spilled two full drinks on him!

Then it was back home for our traditional family "party." We're running out of themes! This year is was Hawaii.

On the doorstep was a gift from his aunt and uncle and cousins...this neat disc, a water shooter and two cool Nike shirts. Thanks so much guys!

I think it might have been close to 10 p.m. by the time we got started.

And, the moment he was waiting for......

2009-06-05T23:27:00.002-04:00

Graduation surprise

My daughter, receiving her school's Medal Of Honor...a big surprise! One boy and one girl are chosen...she was chosen out of a class of over 300 students.

Getting her diploma

2009-06-04T17:06:00.002-04:00

Graduation Night

2009-06-01T07:25:00.001-04:00

Elijah Update - 9 months old
Nanny report

Elijah has gained weight after he came back from his surgery. Recently even his looks seem to change a lot from day to day. He is also stronger now, and he babbles a lot more. He giggles with arms and legs waving up and down when others play with him. He is able to hold his bottle tightly with both hands. He doesn’t seem to digest his milk very well, and he often spits up after drinking his formula. We still have to burp him after he takes formula. We all love him and are excited to be able to care for him!

2009-05-31T17:28:00.004-04:00

Photographs and memories...17 years, so far...

2009-05-29T21:21:00.002-04:00

I found this wonderful award at My Artful Adventures...and I am now the queen! You can be a queen too... and be entered in an amazing giveaway. Go check out the rules!
I would like to give this award away to two wonderful blog friends who I know share my love of Marie inspired art.

Michele at This Good Day was my partner in the Marie swap and she did an amazing job on her collage. I love it!

And, Jeanne at Dream, Create, Inspire. She's always so sweet and her posts make me smile.

Now, I am off to dream up my queen weekend...to start, a nice relaxing soak in the bubble bath!

2009-05-27T10:43:00.004-04:00

Emotion, and no time to process...

I'm not ready!

This time of year is so crazy with everything that occurs at the end of the year... multiply that by three children. It's always hard to keep up.

It's been a long year as I've tried to prepare my youngest for middle school, my middle child for high school...and, also get my daughter ready for college. I'm spent.

But, I can't be... because time marches on....and there are still important things to do.

Wake me up when its over.

I was okay with the college visits... the applications...the acceptances and the final decision.

I held it together at all the curtain calls for the final high school productions.

I was doing fine with it all.

It may have started with the prom pictures...or when the yearbook she worked so hard on came home..., it really started as a whisper when the gown came home in its mortar board shaped folding...

Yes, It started to shout louder and sting my ears then...

THIS IS IT!

(Noooooooooooooo..not just yet....wait, I'm not ready.)

I'M NOT READY!

But time never waits.

It floored me when the choice of resident halls were decided...and it knocked me out cold when the roommate request was placed....these big decisions, rightly made, without me...all matter-of-fact...complete...didn't I tell ya.

Oh No!

No. This isn't happening. WAIT! She won't be living HERE next year.

No,No,No,No,No,No.....I can't hear you.....nanananananananananananananana......

I'm down and out for the count. KO!

Her high school days are nearly over...and she's off to college in a few months.

She's leaving...and I'm NOT READY!!!

It's just that everything happens so quickly..and everything is ending...one thing right after the next...always so busy.

It's been weeks of "lasts" and final moments... and, tomorrow is the very last day of her high school career.

I'M NOT READY! STOP...I want to get off this crazy ride.

During senior awards night it was really hard. I listened to the kind words spoken about her...I watched her walk on stage...sort of a rehearsal for me. A practice for me for the BIG DAY.

This is only a test. I realized then, I'm going to be a mess at graduation and forever after.

I'm going to need to go to bed for a week, or a month or four years... I'm telling you...

I'm not ready.

2009-05-25T10:06:00.002-04:00

It's My Blog Anniversary

I've been blogging for a year and I've met some amazing people through the blog world.

Thank you to each and every one of you for enriching my life. You're all precious.

2009-05-24T17:00:00.003-04:00

Artfest
Artfest was today. Artists gather from all around to display and sell their work along the river in a nearby town. The day was absolutely georgeous too. This is one of my all time favorite events and I look forward to it all year. The art is so inspiring and I always come away from the day recharged. (and full of yummy junk food...think cheese fries)
Usually, I just get to look at the beautiful pieces... which include everything from jewelry to pottery...from paintings to sculpture...you name it...it's there... with many, many vendors....but, this year I planned ahead and saved a few dollars to take along.

I could have purchased a million things...it was hard to choose...but the following came home with me...

I was captivated by this hand sculpture...

And, this mermaid by the same artist spoke to me.

Both of these pieces were created by James Klinger. You can view his website at http://www.klingerart.com/.

My daughter got this amazing bracelet made from vintage typewriter keys. She said I could borrow it :) This was created by Hilary Greif...she doesn't have a site.

Update: Her contact information is here.

And, my daughter got these two dresses designed by an art student!(I think) Aren't they adorable...and they were so very inexpensive. The name on the tags inside say Grace Sachi...maybe she has a facebook.

Update: I found her...her site is here.

2009-05-24T16:39:00.003-04:00

Beautiful Bluebirds

Something very special arrived in the mail!

I have admired Jenny's work for awhile. I love the whimsy and detail in her creative pieces.

I was lucky enough to find this beautiful piece still in her shop. (Her work is snatched up quickly)Aren't those bluebirds adorable!

Every time I look at her work it makes me smile...the day seems full of sunshine!

Can you ask for anything more!...what a great quality to capture in your art and share with others.

And look at this!!!

Jenny surprised me with this precious ornament. (Thanks so much!)

Check out Jenny's blog, The Polka Dot Pixie right here!

2009-05-21T14:13:00.002-04:00

The countdown begins....less than two weeks of school!!! Yipeee!!!...only a few days for my daughter....

Blue and white flowers...I'm always searching for blue and white flowers to add to my little porch.

2009-05-16T23:25:00.005-04:00

More Prom The Ladies

The Men

The Group

2009-05-16T18:02:00.000-04:00

2009-05-16T15:47:00.002-04:00

Prom

ha,ha...Bentley's peeking out the window!

2009-05-15T09:41:00.002-04:00

Food For Thought...or,
take your cake and eat it

Across the board...

It's a lot easier for someone to give away "bread"...

...when all their experiences have always been cake.

True sacrifice has nothing to do with living without....
but everything
to do with
LIVING WITH...

2009-05-12T14:51:00.002-04:00

Ladybug Cookies

2009-05-10T20:38:00.005-04:00

Happy Mother's Day!!!

I hope everyone had a wonderful Mother's Day.

My children always give me breakfast in bed on Mother's Day. Everything tastes so good when you don't have to make it...or step out of bed. Dreamy!

My beautiful children.

My children were very thoughtful and inventive with the gifts they gave me. They came up with their own ways to give me a present even though they didn't have any money to purchase something. My oldest son played "You are my sunshine" on his i-phone. Very sweet...thanks bud!

My daughter made me this very creative bracelet. The roses are made out of rubber bands! The quote is one she cut from a Dove chocolate wrapper! She glued it on a paper clip and then a black ribbon! Pretty creative!

She also drew this bluebird picture on a flower pot.

My youngest son gave me this blueberry muffin candle that he had purchased in his school's Secret Santa shop way back in December. He saved it all this time for Mother's Day. It smells yummy!

I love you guys!

You are my everything!!

2009-05-08T11:38:00.008-04:00

Herb Fair

The sun was shining this morning...a perfect day for the annual herb fair. The herb fair is a sure sign that warm weather is here to stay. I love walking around the stands taking in all the scents of the herbs, flowers and heirloom roses and tomatoes. The backdrop of a local museum adds to the fun.

Every year I buy a few herbs and pot them in a large round container. I dream of having an herb garden like the one's in Williamsburg...or Provence...or even the small one that I had in my other home. Things don't seem to get done around here, and an herb garden isn't high on the list. So, every year, I plant my petite Italian flavor and "Bruschetta" garden in my round clay pot.

Parsley, sage, chives, oregano, basil, dill, rosemary...the basics. Usually, one tomato plant and a pepper plant are in another container. By July, bugs have pretty much eaten everything but the dill and chives...and then the lack of watering while we are on vacation kills the remainder. Not this year! I'm determined to make it grow.

Of course, I can't leave the herb fair without a few pips of lily-of-the-valley and lavender! I haven't been able to establish the lily of the valley in this house yet either...but, I keep trying. In my old home, I had so many that I could pick them for bouquets.

There was a stand at the fair selling homemade soaps. I wish you could experience the amazing scent of these elegant bars.

Have a fragrant day!!!

2009-05-07T07:36:00.002-04:00

Lily of the Valley

The flower for May is lily-of-the-valley. This is my favorite flower!!! I love the delicate, bell shaped white flowers, the colors green and white, and the amazing scent of this flower. I've been collecting lily-of-the-valley items for as long as I can remember. It's a fun thing to collect. Although the scent is popular in lotions and soaps, items are not too easy to find. Here are a few things in my collection.

Nothing beats the scent of fresh lily-of-the-valley. Lilac is a close second.

2009-05-04T16:41:00.002-04:00

Rain, Rain,

Go away...

Come again another day...

I've got garden tools and want to play!

Days and days of rain...sigh.

2009-05-02T20:14:00.006-04:00

Slow goin'

Creativity is a little slow around here these past few days. It's not that I don't have ideas...I just can't get them in focus or stay motivated to start. I'm also very behind on the 52 tag challenge and was hoping to catch up this weekend... sigh. I'm used to this cycle...the production ebb and flow. I know this downtime will soon be replaced with a day or week of boundless creativity...so I wait.

Meanwhile...

I'm looking for inspiration anywhere I can... my usual magazines, the display windows in stores, food, movies, music and...

These cute Betsey bracelets...polka dots and fancy dresses for me!

a teddy bear one for my daughter...

....found yesterday while looking for prom shoes at the mall...

inspiration in itself...have you seen all the adorable shoes out there! I'm loving the colors this season in fashion...oranges, yellows, corals, purples...

and the prints and florals in clothing!

My daughter got the matching necklace too! Pink and Black...always a favorite.

More inspiration...

This vintage planter... found while junkin' a few weeks back... so sweet.

Children's books... found on Amazon with the gift certificate I won from Vanessa (thanks!) I'm sending these to New Day Orphanage.

All these ideas...

...swirling and ever changing...

like the tiles in a kaliedescope.

I just need the mosiac picture to stay in focus long enough ...

Where are you finding your inspiration lately?

2009-04-29T19:15:00.002-04:00

The collage I made for my partner in the Marie Antoinette Swap.

I'm really enjoying this theme. I think I'll work on some other pieces.

2009-04-27T00:09:00.000-04:00

and fade to black...

2009-04-26T17:22:00.005-04:00

Kids on a sunny day

Color Inspiration from Longwood Gardens

2009-04-24T16:48:00.003-04:00

Elijah Update- 7 months
Here's the update on precious Elijah. I can't tell you how much I look forward to his updates. I've gotten really attached to him.

Nanny report:

Elijah is a clever boy with big beautiful eyes. He is very fortunate that he has had a successful surgery late last month. Following his surgery, he has needed a bit more comforting and needs to be held, but that is totally understandable from one who has been sick. We all need a little extra loving kindness when we are sick. Earlier this month he developed pneumonia and received medicine and has since recovered and is now doing well. He has continued to eat well, even following surgery. He smiles from ear to ear and his laughter is contagious. He is so cute!

2009-04-24T13:52:00.004-04:00

Polka Dot Challenge

I'm participating in a polka dot challenge that A Year Of Color is sponsoring. I love polka dots and I collect everything with them on it. Here's the challenge:

An art project...since I have Marie on the brain lately, I whipped up this little project. I love how her hair is just a tad messy :) What has she been up to???

Polka dots in nature...taken in Hawaii.
Polka dot food...candy of course!!!!!!!!

Polka dot clothing...I can't tell you how many polka dot clothes/accessories that I have...I love them!!! here are just two of my colorful scarves.

A vintage polka dot item...one of my most favorite pixies.

2009-04-22T12:45:00.008-04:00

Love Without Boundaries Art Auction!
Today!!!!!
9 am Pacific

Help heal a heart!

The art auction starts April 23 and goes to April 28.

I donated this painting to the auction in honor of my two beautiful nieces.

Journey of the White Swan

Here are my thoughts about this painting:
The lotus blossom candles guide their journey home across the ocean on the White Swan... cushioned by a nest of protective feathers, and...followed by the Winged Hearts... to signify that adoption is a true gift of the heart... and also to symbolize that their Chinese heritage will always be a part of who they are...a birth gift they brought with them from China. The girls each hold a single swan feather to symbolize the transformation to their forever family. Feathers also have been associated with maternal love and spirituality.

Go check out all the wonderful items up for bid right here. There are over 300 incredible items up for bid (items gradually added) with EVERY penny going to fund heart surgeries for Chinese orphans.

Spread the word!!!!