ON THE BAD LIST

********************MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE***********************

Yes I'm on Santa's bad list for not blogging. I know it's been it a long long time since I've blogged. It's been just a little crazy around here. Ok I know what's new.

Lets start at the beginning. Mark's Dad was in the hospital, then his brother and sister-in-law where here from North Dakota. They stayed with us for two weeks. (Now remember our house is still in the middle of a remodel. 4 people and one bathroom....OH MY Ok it really wasn't that bad LOL!) We always enjoy when we get to visit with David and Lori. It seems like we only get to see them ever 3 or 4 years. Needless to say there where plenty of late nights and lots of catching up.

We had Thanksgiving in the middle somewhere. We spent it at Mark's parent's. Mark's son Kyle and wife Tasha were here also. We were happy to find out we are going to be grand parents again.

Speaking of Grand kids I get to spend Christmas eve and morning with three of my grand kids. I am so excited. I've never been with any of them on Christmas morning. I think I am more excited than they are about Christmas this year. I think my camera will definitely be on over load! LOL

Look at how much our new little grand daughter KALLIE has grown. She is back in Bakersfield now and we will get to see her the day after Christmas. We can hardly wait!!!!



Sunday I am having a cookie baking party at my house so if your in the neighborhood stop by for some cookies and hot caramel apple cider!

Here she is

Here she is our new baby grand daughter just seconds old

Welcome to the world Kallie Denea Guess

Born today at 5:40pm
9lbs 1oz and 21-3/4"


isn' she beautiful.

Feeling like Fall

It's really starting to look and feel like fall here at the retreat. I absolutely love this time of the year when the air is crisp,the leaves are turning and the smell of pumpkin,apples and gingerbread. Oh what could be any better!

How about presents. Look at these adorable presents the girls brought Mark and I this weekend.









Isn't she just adorable




Thank so much!

Bad Bad Bad

Yes I am getting really bad about blogging. I don't know where the time goes but a week has gone by before I even know realize it.

We had a so much fun visiting the kids this past weekend. The grandkids are growing like weeds. They were so cute trick or treating. Becca is Wendy, Scooby Doo is Josh and Batman it Tyler. Josh was all into getting candy....his brother was a little bashful this year and didn't want to go up to the people giving out the candy.

I'm not sure where the rest of the week went but here it is friday already. I am at the retreat getting ready for the weekend. If your tried of the heat you should pay us a visit it's suppose to drop down to the 20's this weekend. We may get our first snow.

I better run the girls will be arriving soon and I need to get the chocolate fountain going. Have a great day!

Fall Party

Well today was all about my 5 year old grandson Tyler. I got to go to his school and take pictures of his Fall Party. Then we were off to the Pumpkin Patch but I didn't pick a very good one (so I was told)they didn't have any hay rides or animals you could feed. Then it was off to the park to play for awhile. Tonight the grand kids and I are making a cookie haunted house.

Tomorrow Mark and I are going trick or treating in the Village with the grand kids and then we are headed back to Oxnard. We hope you have a safe and Happy Halloween

Technically Challenged

I must be technically challenged lately. Evey time I touch something it breaks or malfunctions. I was down loading the pictures I took to show you the animals when all my pictures erased. I don't know how I did it but they're GONE. I guess I wasn't suppose to show how cute that squirrel was basking in the sun. I am so darn mad at myself. I will probably never get another picture like that...the bad thing is it was Mark's camera now I've lost all his pictures also.....Oh what's a girl to do!

Some of you have asked for my Pumpkin Dip recipe so here you go

Pumpkin dip

Ingredients
1 8-ounce package cream cheese, softened
1 15 oz. canned pumpkin
2 cups powdered sugar
3/4 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
1/2 teaspoon Cinnamon

Directions
Beat all ingredients in a medium mixing bowl with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to 24 hours. I like to serve this is good served with ginger snaps. Enjoy!

It's a beautiful day here so I'm off to go for a walk. Have a great day!

Invasion of wild life

I think we are being invaded by wild life. We have so many blue jays I can't keep track of them all. Today we had three covey of quail totaling over 30, a couple of rabbits not to mention all the squirrels. They all come right up on the deck and eat. They will even let you walk up to the window and take their pictures without even moving.

In fact the animals are getting so use to me taking their pictures I could have sworn the squirrel was posing for me today. He let me get with in a foot of him...he was laying on the porch railing basking in the sun. He was so cute. I know he was posing when I was taking pictures of him through the window. He looked right at me and let me take his picture and I'm sure that was a smile on his face LOL.

Oh and did I mention GOPHER'S our side yard looks like swiss cheese. Any suggestions on how to get rid of them? Mark has tried everything and I do mean everything so if you know of a sure fire way to get rid of them we would love to hear from you.

I also got the most gorgeous picture of a crowned blue jay. These animals will do just about anything to get to Mark's bird feed.

I would love to show you the pictures however my computer isn't letting me upload photos off the card onto my computer. I will try again tomorrow....you have to see this little guy posing. So come back tomorrow!

HIGH TECH NIGHTMARE

Sorry for the lack of blogging again. My computer would not let me on the internet this week so I had to call the repair guy again. We haven't connected yet to get the problem fixed. Whats even weirder is that the internet works fine on my computer at the retreat, it's usually the other way around. I may have to call Sony if this keeps up.

If that wasn't enough my cell phone also died this week. I love all the new technology until it breaks then it's a nightmare LOL. I have to say I am loving my new phone. I got the new Palm Pre now if I just learn how to work it. I think it can do everything but wash my dishes hehe.

To all my Bakersfield friends I have to tell you. I had to run to Bakersfield last thursday to get ink for the computer before the retreat on friday. It was cold here in Frazier I was freezing so I went in a sweatshirt and shoes and socks. Needless to say I was roasting when I got there....it was 80 degress at 6 at night. You would think I would know better. LOL

The weather here on the moutain is beautiful it is in the low 70's during the day and dropping to the low 40's high 30's at night. The leaves are turning...it's really starting to look and feel like fall. It's so nice after all the heat (OK maybe not heat like Bakersfield but hot for me LOL) I am such a wimp when it comes to hot weather.

We have been invaded by Blue Jays. Marks has two feeders for them and he fills when he gets here on thursday and then again before he leaves on Saturday. By the time he gets back on thursday they are empty. Seems like there is always one or two at the feeder protecting it from the other birds. They are very territorial. They are the darkest color of blue this year...they are just beautiful!

Sunny California

You sure can't beat the weather here in Southern CA...yesterday it was raining and today it's in the high 70's. I know awhile back when it was hot I said I was ready for snow. I LIED 2 days of cold rainy weather and this CA girl is ready for Sunshine and warm weather. I have a feeling winter will be here on the mountain before I want. It's no wonder I still live Ventura County you just can't beat the weather here.


Spooky Brownies


Your favorite brownie recipe or box of brownie mix.

Decorations
1 container white frosting
Neon green, pink and blue food colors
24 large marshmallows
Miniature candy-coated chocolate baking bits
Black decorating gel (from 0.68-oz tube)
1 roll Fruit Roll-Ups® chewy fruit snack (any red variety)
Gummy worms candies

Make and bake brownies in 13x9-inch pan as directed on box. Cool completely, about 2 hours. Cut into 6 rows by 4 rows, making 24 brownies.

2 In small microwavable bowl, microwave frosting uncovered on High about 20 seconds or until frosting can be stirred smooth. Divide warm frosting among 3 small bowls.

3 Decorate as directed below, using 8 brownies for each bowl of frosting.

Franken-Brownies Add 5 drops green food color to frosting in 1 bowl; mix well. Top each of 8 brownies with 1 large marshmallow. Spoon 1 tablespoon green frosting over each marshmallow to coat. Decorate with green baking bits for eyes and ears. Use black gel for mouths and centers of eyes. Cut fruit snack to use for hair.

Boo-Brownies Top each of 8 brownies with 1 large marshmallow. Spoon 1 tablespoon white frosting over each marshmallow to coat. Use black gel for eyes and mouths.

Spider Brownies Add 5 drops pink food color and 3 drops blue food color to frosting in 1 bowl; mix well. Top each of 8 brownies with 1 large marshmallow. Tuck gummy worms candies under each marshmallow for legs. Spoon 1 tablespoon purple frosting over each marshmallow to coat. Use orange baking bits for eyes. Use black gel for mouths, centers of eyes and eyebrows.

I found these on tablespoon.com. I think my grand kids are going to love these. Although last year I made them bleeding witch finger cookies and they wouldn't eat them because they said they looked to real LOL!

Lovin' the Rain

Don't you just love the rain? What is your favorite thing to do in the rain? I love to bake and read which I am going to do both today :-) I just found a new recipe for pumpkin bread that has cream cheese swirled in it. Oh my....YUMMMMM

Pumpkin Swirl Loaf

Mix together well:
-1 cup pure pumpkin
-1 egg
-1/3 cup water
-1/2 cup melted butter


Add:
-1 1/2 cups white sugar
-1 tsp baking soda
-1 tsp cinnamon
-1/2 tsp salt
-1/4 tsp nutmeg
-1 3/4 cups flour
Beat together well.


Cream Cheese Topping:
-8 oz cream cheese, at room temperature
-1/2 cup sugar
-1 egg
Beat together until smooth.


Grease pan. Put half of the pumpkin mixture into the pan. Spoon half the cream cheese mixture on top, then pour over the remaining pumpkin mixture, and top with remaining cream cheese.
Using a knife swirl, making a marbling effect. Bake in 350º oven for 1/1/2 hours. If you make in two pans baking time will be about 50 minutes. If the topping is getting too dark loosely cover with foil. Allow to stand in pan for 10 minutes and then remove to cooling rack. Does not freeze well.

Even though I am excited about another day of rain my prayers goes out to all those in the burn areas.

Franken-Snacks

I'm getting really bad about blogging. Since my computer has been acting up for the past month and a half I don't even want to get on the darn thing. I think it is finally fixed :-)!!!! I hope it's the fourth time I've had it in the shop to be fixed.

I talked to one of my grandson's yesterday and I told him I was making him this for halloween. He was so excited. I'm not sure he'll eat it but it's to cute not to make.


Franken-Snacks
Ingredients:
8 c. Corn Chex Cereal
1 package Lemon-Lime drink mix (unsweetened, we used Kool-Aid)
1 c. Granulated Sugar
1/2 c. Light corn syrup
1/3 c. Butter or Margarine
1/2 tsp. Baking Soda
1 oz. vanilla candy coating (we used Candi-Quick, available in the baking aisle)
1 oz. chocolate candy coating (we used Candi-Quick, available in the baking aisle)
1/4 c. Cheerios
Toothpick
Wax Paper
Non-Stick cooking spray

Mix-ins (you can change them as desired):


3 C. Kix Cereal
2 C. Trix Cereal
3 C. mini-pretzels
1 bag Goldfish Crackers
1 C. M & M's Candies



Directions:
Heat oven to 225 degrees and spray a cookie sheet with nonstick cooking spray. Heat the sugar, syrup and margarine in a medium saucepan over medium heat until boiling, stirring occasionally. Boil for 3 minutes (do not stir).
Remove from heat and stir in soda and Koolaid.

Pour over 6 cups Chex Cereal and stir gently. Spread onto greased cookie sheet.
Bake at 225 F for 30 minutes. Remove from oven and while still warm, set 20-30 pieces on another greased cookie sheet to use as your "Frankensteins". Cool completely, stirring occasionally if desired.










To assemble "Frankensteins", melt chocolate candy coating in a small microwave-safe bowl for 45 seconds. Stir well. Dip one end of a Chex square into the chocolate. This is your "hair". Set on wax paper to dry. Using a toothpick, dip end into chocolate and draw two eyes and a mouth on your creature. Repeat with all 20-30 squares. When set (about 5 minutes), melt vanilla candy coating as above. Dip two Cheerios in coating and attach to sides of Frankenstein (these are his "bolts"). Let dry completely.
Mix remaining Chex and other Mix-ins in a large bowl. Top with your "Frankensteins" and serve it up to the waiting Goblins and Ghouls!







You can also spoon into small bags and tie with ribbon for a fun school snack or party favor. This recipe I found on Mon on the go

Pumpkin Bread

This is what my day looked like yesterday.

3 mile walk at the beach








Washed canning jars










Mixed a triple batch of Pumkin Bread










Baked in jars and sealed










They are all canned and ready for Fall gifts. Look how cute

MUMMY DOGS

I just got back from my morning walk and wanted to post before I get wrapped up in the day. I have a lot I want to get done.
Speaking of wrapped up if you kids like hot dogs these are a must.


Since my computer crashed and I wasn't able to save anything on it....and no I didn't think to back up my recipes. I had to hunt for a picture of this one for you. They are so cute and the kids love them so it's easy to get them to eat something before they go trick or treating. I found it and many other Halloween ideas on Our Best Bites

MUMMY DOGS
Cut crescent roll dough into thin strips and wrap around hot dogs. Bake according to crescent package directions and use ketchup or mustard for eyes. I cut my hot dogs in half to make them bite-sized.

I make halloween shaped corn chips to go with these. You need your halloween cookie cutters, corn tortillas and oil. sing cookie cutters cut the tortillas out drop into hot oil and fry until crispy. Remove to paper towel sprinkle with salt and let cool.

Hope you have a great day!

Candy filled Skulls

You would think with all these ideas I would be ready for Halloween. Not even close. I still can't believe it's Oct. I haven't even decorated yet. I did make a Halloween banner for a Halloween swap I was in. That is about all the decorating I've done so far. Have you decorated yet?


Here is another idea that is supper easy and cute. All you need is some left over plastic Easter eggs and white and black duck tape.

MONSTERS ON A STICK

Sorry for the lack of blogging. My computer has been acting up...it's going back to the shop again today. It's amazing how lost I am without it.


Here is another idea I can't wait to try with my grandsons.

What kid wouldn't love to eat these?










To make this wide eyed, forked tongue monster:




Cut some cheese into eyebrows and skewer. Cut a marshmallow almost completely in half and bend back. Smear peanut butter into the crease and wrap around the skewer. Stick choc chips into the marshmallow for the eyes. A cherry tomato on the skewer makes the cute nose. Use apple slices and cut teeth into the peel for the mouth. Skewer one apple slice. Cut some cheese into the shape of a forked tongue and skewer. Skewer the next apple slice and then stick into a half of an apple to make it stand up.






Cut a raisin in half and stick the halves into a reg marshmallow. Skewer the marshmallow. Use two apple slices with peanut butter and choc chips on them for the mouth. Skewer both of the apples. {I have a mini marshmallow in between the apple slices to make it look like he was chewing on an eyeball. Didn’t really work, but it’s shown in the pic.} I used 3 mini marshmallows on the bottom of the skewer so the apple slices wouldn’t fall off. They were heavy due to the choc chips. After you have everything skewered, cut a grape almost completely in half for the eyes. Fold them back and smear peanut butter into the crease and wrap it around the skewer for the eyes. Stick the skewer into half of an apple to make it stand up.





Stuff a raisin into a regular marshmallow and then stick a skewer through it for the eye. Cut triangles into slices of apple for the mouth. The tongue is a slice of grape. Skewer one slice of apple next, then the grape, and lastly the other slice of apple. Stick the skewer into half of an apple to make it stand up.




I found these adorable little monsters on littlenummies blog. She has some cute food ideas for kids.

Halloween Chex Mix

How's everyone doing out there? Are you ready for a new challenge-giveaway? Stay turned I will be announcing it soon. I also thought you might like this recipe.



Halloween Chex Mix

What you'll need:

8 oz. white chocolate baking bars, coarsely chopped
4 cups Corn Chex or Rice Chex cereal
2 cups bite sized pretzel twists
1/2 cup raisins
1 cup candy corn
1/4 cup orange & black candy decors (Halloween sprinkles)


Preparation:

In large microwavable bowl, microwave chopped baking bars uncovered on High 1 1/2 to 2 1/2 minutes, stirring every 30 seconds, until melted and smooth.
Gently stir in cereal, pretzels and raisins until evenly coated. Stir in candy corn and decors.
Spread on waxed paper or foil until cooled and chocolate is set, about 30 minutes. Break into chunks. Store loosely covered.
Recipe Yields: 18 servings (1/2 cup each)

I am off for my morning walk. Have a great day!

Witch Leg Cupcakes

Here is my idea for today




I found these cute witch cupcakes on the Better Homes and Gardens website. Be sure and click on the link there are some other cute ideas for cupcakes.
Witch Legs

To make it, follow these steps:

1. Start with frosted store-bought or homemade cupcakes.
2. Use black marzipan to make the shape of the witch's boots.
3. Stick yellow mini M&Ms on each boot for the buckles with frosting.
4. Mold each boot around a peppermint stick to create the legs.
5. Top cupcake with coconut dyed with green food coloring.
6. Insert the peppermint sticks into the cupcake to create the witch's legs.

Giveaway & Witches Hats

I have this cute Halloween kit I am giving away. All you have to do is leave us a comment. We'd like to know your favorite Halloween recipes and decorating ideas. I will be posting some fun ideas for you all this month. We will have a random drawing on Sept. 30 so you'll have the kit in time for Halloween.




I found these adorable sombreros on someones blog last year for Cinco de Mayo. I think they would make adorable witches hats If you covered them chocolate first. Here is how to make one, frost the edge of a cookie with icing and roll it in colored nonpareils. Next, coat the bottom and the lower edge of a sugar cone with frosting. Roll the edge of the cone in the nonpareils, then set the cone in the center of the cookie.

When is Fall coming?

When is Fall coming? It feels more like summer it's been so hot and humid here for the past week I can't believe I'm in Ventura County! There has been no nice ocean breeze all week and the humidity who ordered that. If hot wasn't bad enough you had to throw in the 80% + humidity. YIKES! definitely not my kind of weather. Today however is over cast and cool with a nice breeze :-) AWWWW!!!! I'm loving it.

I went for a walk on the beach at 8 this morning. It was over cast and cool. Perfect!!! There were a few surfer's, a couple people walking their dogs and my friend Lisa and I. I had to talk her into playing in the water but once we got our feet in it was so refreshing I could have stayed there all day!

Mark is finishing remodeling his bathroom. Our quick remodel has now taken almost 2 years. Poor guy he wants to do it all himself....in all his spare time! We did take this long weekend off so he could work on the house. Our remodel may get done sometime in 2010. I hope.

Yes Fall is peeking around the corner and it's time for some fun. It's been awhile since I've done a giveaway so come back on Monday for my Fall into some Fun giveaway.

Did I mention Fall is my favorite time of the year...I love all the colors, the crispness in the air not to mention the smells. I can already smell Pumpkin Pies baking YUMMM!

I have so many things I want to get made for the Holidays. Tomorrow I am spending the day working on a few of those creation. YEAH!!!! I'll give you a sneak peak on Monday.

Have a Happy and Safe Labor Day Weekend!

Lost for 2 Weeks

I've been without a computer for 2 weeks....yes sad to say I was totally lost. What did I do before computers? I finally got it back yesterday and was so excited. Then this morning I went to check my e-mails and couldn't get on. I called my web host they couldn't figure out what was wrong. I guess it will go back on Monday :-(

My grandson started kindergarten last Thursday. I went and stayed with them for a few days so I could be there for his first day. He was so darn cute. I had tons of pictures to bore you with but lost all them when my computer crashed. Luckily I had uploaded them to Snapfish before it crashed I just didn't get a chance to make a CD.

Not only did I lose my pictures I also lost all my recipes. This paperless world is great until your computer crashes. HA! I spent hours yesterday looking for this recipe I had just tried for baked pancakes. They were Delicious!!!! I finally found it :-) I think we will have them for breakfast tomorrow.YUMMMMM!

Pecan and Salted Caramel Cheesecake

I had some bannanas that need to be used up so as I was searching for a recipe for banana nut bread. (I'm still looking for a good one. I haven't found one I really like. Anyone have one that their family loves and want to share?) As I was searching I came across this recipe on bakeorbreak for Pecan and Salted Carmel Cheesecake. Did you ever try Starbuck's Salted Carmel Hot Chocolate? YUMMMMMM!!!! I'm not a big fan of sweet drinks but I was of this drink. It was sooooo good!!! So when I saw this recipe I knew I was going to have to try it.










Pecan and Salted Caramel Cheesecake


Crust
•1 & 1/4 cups graham cracker crumbs
•4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
•3 tablespoons granulated sugar
Preheat the oven to 325°. Butter the bottom and sides of a 9-inch springform pan.

Mix graham cracker crumbs, butter, and sugar in a medium bowl until thoroughly combined. Press into the bottom of prepared pan. Set aside.

I like to bake my crust first for 10 minutes at 350 plus I added more butter so the crust would stay together better about 1/2 cup total.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Filling
•32 ounces cream cheese, softened
•1 cup granulated sugar
•1 large egg yolk
•3 eggs
•1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Mix cream cheese and sugar with an electric mixer at medium speed until light, airy, and smooth. Add eggs, one at a time, mixing completely after each addition. Add the vanilla extract and mix until blended.

Pour the mixture into the prepared pan. Bake about 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the cake comes out clean and the center of the cheesecake is just set. Turn off the oven, leave door slightly ajar, and let cheesecake cool completely.


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Caramel
•1 cup granulated sugar
•4 tablespoons unsalted butter
•1/2 cup heavy cream
•1 cup coarsely chopped pecans
•1 large pinch sea salt
Stir together sugar and 1 tablespoon water in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Let boil until amber in color, about 3 minutes. Immediately stir in butter. Remove from heat and stir in cream. Set aside and let cool to room temperature.

Pour caramel over cooled cheesecake. Sprinkle with pecans and sea salt.



Just wait until you sink your teeth into this one. OMG to die for!

Big Picture Scrapbooking

Have you heard Big Picture Scrapbooking is offering a free class called
BUSY WOMEN out of time, on a budget, but STILL INSPIRED
go to Big Picture Scrapbooking to register. This class is only offered during the month of August so don't miss it.

More on keeping cool!

Here is idea I saw over at Inspireco and I can't wait to try this one also.

The idea:


Freeze a bunch of waterproof toys into a block of ice. Just pour the water into the container (whatever will fit in your freezer) and pile in the toys. Little plastic animals where used here but you can use whatever your child likes. Give your little one some toy tools like a plastic hammer and a squirt bottle and watch the fun begin!



P.S. Sue the bunnies are growing fast. So are the baby quail.

HOT HOT HOT

The weather has been way to hot me. I guess by now you all know I'm pretty spoiled by the weather we have here in Ventura County. If the weather gets over 75 (which it has been lately) it's way to hot for me. I'm off to the beach but I wanted to show you this cute idea first.


I'm always looking for fun things to do with my grandsons when he visits. He doesn't like to go to the beach so I wanted something to keep him nice and cool. I found this cute idea on Little Hands,Big Work.

This looks like it would be so much fun in the pool or tub.

To Make fill muffin tins with water and add a drop or two of food coloring and freeze. The ice will immediately started melting and the colors start swirling in the water. It also makes for a great opportunity to talk about colors, melting, warm and cold. Warning: the water in the tub will be a funky brown by the end of the bath.
I can't wait to make a bunch of these up and keep them in the freezer so I'm ready for the next time my grandson visit.

Overcast and loving it!

I woke up today to a nice cool and over cast day. I never thought you would here me saying I'm happy about an overcast day but I have to say after all the hot weather I am so happy to see a nice cool day even if it is overcast! AHHHH a nice day of cool ocean breezes what could be better?

Well maybe this.... today is my first day of photography lessons. I'm finally going to learn how to use my camera. YEAH!

BUT WAIT THERE'S MORE....My photography teacher is also going to teach me how to use photo shop....could it get any better!!!

I really wasn't to interested in digital scrapbbooking but I have to say it has really peaked my interest....when I saw the girls at the retreat doing hybrid scrapbooking. I got so excited when I found out you could have any color of paper or embellishment from one item....just think I wouldn't have to buy flowers in ever color or every piece of paper in triplicate. For a girl who never thought she could get excited about digital scrapbookng I am very excited. Watch out you could be seeing some hybrid scrapbooking from me soon.

Crazy Life

My life has been a little crazy lately. I can't believe it's been so long since I've blogged.

The weather her at the retreat has been warm the past couple of weekends. It been around 80. Way to hot for this girl. Thank goodness for that nice mountain breeze or this girl would be in pure misery!

Here are some pictures of the wildlife we've been seeing in our yard lately. This little jack rabbit was so small he could have fit in the palm of my hand. We have so many baby jacks and cotton tails this year. Sue you would be in rabbit heaven! This is the smallest one. I also have some pictures of his brothers and sisters but they were almost twice his size.



We have a couple of covey's of quail. One of adults and one of babies. The babies are only about three inches tall. They are so darn cute.



We have so many different types of birds. The word must have gotten out that Mark is feeding them. We are gone for three days and the two feeders are empty. In fact this weekend it only took two days for the feed to be gone. Today we had blue jays, wood peckers, these adorable little red headed birds not sure what they are in fact we had about 5 different birds today I had no idea what they were. I'm going to have to get a bird book so I can find out what they are. They are so much fun to watch.

Cricut Swap

I'm hosting a Cricut Swap....come on and join in on the fun.

Cricut Swap


Each person will choose their favorite cricut cartridge to use...once one
is chosen, you cannot pick it.

I will keep the list of cartridges that have been chosen posted here on my blog


This swap is limited to 10 people. So e-mail me along with your cartridge
choice as soon as possible so you don't miss out on your favorite
cartridge.


From your cartridge you will cut and embellish 10 of the same design. Each
design should be around 5x5". Doesn't have to be exact.

You will snail mail these to me along w/ a self-addressed, stamped bubble
envelope.

I will email all the participants my snail mail address.

At the end of the swap, each person will have 10 different embellished
cricut die-cuts.

Then I will post them here and we will vote on the best one. This
will be open to anyone who reads my blog. The winner will receive a gift
certificate for $25 off a visit to Scrap-N-Away! Come on girl's
lets have some fun with this!

I can't wait to see how creative you are.

Happy 4th of July!

We wish all of you a very Happy 4th of July.

I told you we are having our first Girlie Grand daughter. Grandpa is so excited he's already been shopping twice to buy her an outfit. This little princess already has him wrapped around her little finger and she isn't even here yet. I'm getting a little worried LOL!

I finally did it! I joined the gym and had my first workout this morning :-)I don't understand why it's always so hard for me to get there I love it once I get there and feel so good when I leave. I have some very high goals to keep so I'll keep you posted.

The kids are coming in from Texas tomorrow. We haven't seen them since Christmas so we are looking forward to our visit with them.

Have a Happy and Safe 4th!

It's a girl!!!

We are having a GRAND DAUGHTER...we are sooooo excited! It's finally time for pink, ruffles and all the frills that go with a little girl. I'm off to go shopping. Have a wonderfully PINK day!

Back to Normal

Things are finally getting back to normal around here :-)
I've been busy finding new recipes to make, making new make-n-takes, and placing an order for new product. It feels so good to be back at work!

Just in case you need a MINI-SCRAP-CATION don't forget we have a few money saving weekends running this summer! So grab your supplies and come up for a 3 or 4 day weekend.

I have to finish up a project I am working on for a 4th of July Swap. I hope to have it in the mail soon. Thank you to my sweet partner who is letting me mail it late. You are a doll. I hope you enjoy all your goodies! I will show it to the rest of you soon but for now it is a secret.

Thanks again to all of you who sent cards, flowers, e-mails your support meant the world to Mark and I. Have a great day!

Thank you

I just wanted to say thank you to all of you who have been there for Mark and I in this difficult time. We have really appreciated it. My Mom passed away on Sunday. I am at peace with it. She has suffered for a long time with Parkinson's and it's a nice to know she is now longer suffering. Her services will be on Friday June 19 so the family will all be coming soon.

Mark's Dad had back surgery on Tuesday. He is in the convalescent hospital recuperating. Everything seem to have gone well. I stopped in and saw him on my way back to the retreat.

I also wanted to say a special thank you to the group of girls who were here on Sunday when I found out my Mom passed. Thank you for all your help and all the extra special things you did for Mark and I. You have no idea how much it meant to us both.

I'm still not sure how my son is doing. He is taking this very hard. I just received another phone call from his wife today saying she is still awfully worried about him. He tells me he's fine but she doesn't think he is. Please keep him in your prayers.

It's time to get ready for this weekends retreat so I better run. I know many of you have been wondering about my Mom. Thanks again for being there!

Weed Abatement Time :-(

It's Weed Abatement time again. Mark is going to spend the next week clearing our lot. I didn't think it was that bad but he says it's a mess. Anyone want to help? It's great exercise LOL.


Mark's Dad fell this past week and needs to be operated on. He dislocated a disk in his back and is in the hospital. We aren't sure when they will operate yet however they want to go in and glue his disk back together. I have to tell you life never gets dull around our house.

It's been a really rough week at home. Mom my is still hanging on. Please say a prayer that God will take her soon. She isn't suffering but it is so hard seeing like this. She was always such a lively person. I can't remember her ever sitting still for more than 5 minutes.

My Mom's sister is at our house along with Hospice. Hospice has been so wonderful. We have 24 hour care for her and they do a fantastic job of keeping her comfortable.
We are at the Retreat for a much needed break. Thanks to all of you who were here last weekend. The break really helped me make it through this past week. I now have everything done I can do until my Mom passes. I'm sorry I haven't had time to write each of you yet and thank you.


I have to go and get ready for our Retreat this weekend. Thanks to those of you who have sent e-mails and prayers. Have a great weekend!

Happy Memorial Weekend

We hope you and your family have a Happy and Safe weekend. We will be spending the weekend with some or our regulars at the retreat. We are so excited to be able to be here!!!

Some of you know my husband and I take care of my Mom who has Parkinson's. Last week she got phenomena and we had to admit her in the hospital. She was there for well over a week and all she wanted was to go home. So after much arguing and tears I finally got everything set up for her to go home with the help of Hospice. She is now home and resting peacefully with her sister and youngest daughter caring for her while Mark and I sneak away to hold a retreat. We are so thankful they were able to come and stay with her.

I wanted to thank all of you that rescheduled last weekend. Our emergency turned into way more than we ever expected. We are looking forward to seeing you soon

Life has been handing out Lemons

Sorry for the lack of blogging lately. Life has been handing out a lot of Lemons lately so I'm trying to stay positive and make lemon aide.

We found out my Son has to have surgery on his arm. My other Son hurt his arm riding his motor cycle and can't use it and My Mom has a cold and keeps falling out of bed. Now you would think that would be enough for one day, however my neighbor knocked on the door to let me know that I just got a ticket. I got a ticket for having a plastic cover on my front license plate. $180 ticket YIKES!!!!! Who knew a plastic cover was illegal? I was so MAD. Don't they have anyone better to give a ticket to!

Today I went to the police department and they at least reduced the ticket to a fix it ticket and it is only going to cost $25. YEAH!!!! Life is much better today. Thank you.

Mark got off early today so we got to have lunch together. That's something we rarely get to do. It was nice sure nice.

The guy came and put full rails on my Mom's hospital bed so she won't be falling out of bed anymore.

Life is looking up again. The weather here is beautiful and the lemon aide is great! Hope life is treating you well. Have a great day.

Bazzill Matchmaker

I just found htis great link. If you've ever wondered what color of cardstock to use to match with your pretty paper this site will answer that questions and more!

BAZZILL MATCHMAKER
Let me know what you and how long you stay there.

Swingset Giveaway

How would you like to win this great swing set for your kids? Go on over to MomDot
and findout how. I'm trying to win this for my grandkids will you help my out by signing up to follow us on twitter. Let me know if you enter and I'll help you. Thanks.

Cosmo Cricket

We just received Cosmo Crickets Snorkel line. I'll try to post some pictures of it soon. It is so cute!!!! I can't wait to use this paper. I have all these ideas running around in my head. We also just received the Glue Glider Pro in pink and green these are a must little gems are a definite must have. If you haven't found a tape dispenser you are really happy with you'll have to try this one. A friend bought me one and I'm hooked!

Heads up

I wanted to let you know about a couple of sales just in case you haven't heard.

Micheal's has cricut Disney cartridges on sale for 29.99. They still have a few left after I was there!

Also Me and my BIG ideas Warehouse Sale


May 15 - 16

Friday 9am-5pm
Saturday 9am-3pm

Open to the public

Scrapbooking & Crafting supplies up to 75% off!
stickers, paper pads, embellishments & more

MAMBI Warehouse
20321 Valencia Circle
Lake Forest, CA 92630

Just off the Lake Forest Dr. and the 241 Tollroad

If you go to this think of me I can't make it I have a retreat or I would definitely be there. I've been to their warehouse before it is awesome
and full of such eye candy.

Happy National Scrapbook Day

What are you doing today for National Scrapbook Day? We hope you have the chance to do something creative. We'd love to see what you're doing.

I have a new project I'm starting I will post a picture of her when I'm done. It will take me awhile since I'm still not suppose to be using my hand. I'm so excited! I hope it turns out like I imagine.


We have a new group of girls here at the retreat. We have some fun things planned for today with plenty of prizes. Wish you were here with us! I need to go give the first prize away! Have a great day!

HAPPY MAY DAY

HAPPY MAY DAY!







The winner of our giveaway is CHEEZIEMOMMIE...congratulations. Send me your e-mail address so I can get your prize to you.

Thanks to all of you who left comments...continue to leave them you never know when our next giveaway will be. I'm going to keep the next date a secret so keep leaving us comments....we love hearing from you.. Be sure and tell your friends to join in on the fun.

Here is a little hint... Mark and I will be celebrating a special day soon and we want you to celebrate with us so we are going to be having an on line party. Details to come later I need to go get ready for this weekends retreat.

Swine Flu Humor

Pimp my swine flu mask you have to go here and see these mask. At least they can have a little fun in the seriousness of it all.

GIVEAWAY
I will pick the winner tonight at midnight so you have one last chance to leave a comment. GOOD LUCK!

LAST DAY TO ENTER

How would you like to win a 3 DAY WEEKEND TO SCRAP-N-AWAY?


Here is all you have to do.

1. Leave a comment and receive 1 entry (1 per day).

HOW TO GET EXTRA ENTRIES!!!!
1. If you've been to our retreat you recieve 1 entry if you leave me a comment about something you liked or disliked about our retreat.

2. Tell a friend about our GIVEAWAY and receive 2 entries per friend that leaves us a comment with your name.

3. Become one of our followers and get an additional 3 entries

4. Post a link about our giveaway on your blog, face book, twitter (e-mail me and let me know) you will get 10 entries for each one.


Good Luck to all. This GIVEAWAY is open to anyone over 18. The drawing will be held on May 1st. We are looking forward to hearing form you. Have a great day.


HOW TO LEAVE A COMMENT:
Click on "Comments" and it will take you to a box where you can leave a comment. If you do not have a blogger account, you may leave a comment using "Anonymous", but make sure to leave your first and last name and then click "Publish Your Comment".

Peanutbutter Brownies

Look at this recipe my grandson Tyler and I just found. We were looking for something to make for Grandpa when he gets home from work. Don't they look YUMMY!!!!







Tyler also picked out this recipe for Creamy Chicken pasta bake he wants to make for dinner. He loves chicken nuggets (YUG) so we were looking for something he thought looked good. I'll let you know how it turns out.






First we are off to the Park to play.

Happy Birthday Becca

Wow where Oh where did this week go? I've been so busy this week I haven't even blogged. I've had chiro, acupuncture, and hair appointments.

The grey hair is gone YEA! I have a new color...still not to sure about it but it's something different for now.

I still have tendinitis and I'm not suppose to be using my hand. Hopefully one more appointment to the acupuncturist and it will be gone :-)this one handed typing is for the birds.

Today is my Grand daughter's 13th birthday. Happy Birthday Becca... Grandma and Grandpa Love you! We hope you had a wonderful day. We are looking forward to seeing you. YIKES she is officially a teenager. I'm having a problem with this...it seems like yesterday you were 3.

Today Mark and I went to Lancaster to the Poppy Reserve on our way to the retreat. The Poppies were all gone. The guy at the park said they were in full bloom the beginning of April. We did see a few a long the way.

Look what we saw once we got to the 5 near Gorman