Easter Layouts

Here are a couple of the layouts I made for Easter. Sorry the pictures aren't better. I still haven't figured out a good way to take pictures of layouts. Anyone have any suggestions?

It's snowing again today. Right now it is coming down pretty good here is a picture of just before I started to write this and here is one about 5 minutes later. It sure didn't take long for it to turn white! One thing about this cold weather I love to stay inside and bake. I'm off to make some cookies and banana nut bread. Have a great day!

Do you know what this is? Yes it is the Yudu and Michael's has it on sale for $99.99 today! That's a great price if you've been wanting to get one of these this would be a great time.

I've heard mixed reviews on them. Some people say the are really difficult to use and others just love them. Here is their website Yudu just in case you want more information.

If you have one or get one let me know how you like it I'm still trying to decide if I need one. I've heard to many negative things so I've been putting off getting one however this is a great deal. It's probably a good thing I live so far from town or I might be at Michael's picking one up!

Today I am busy making bread and cookies so I will post some Easter ideas either later today or tomorrow. Hope you have a fantastic day!

Easter Carrots

Ok ladies remember these Hot Chocolate Bags and I told you you can make them for any holiday or party favors?

Well how about a cute little carrot for Easter. All you have to do is fill them with orange jelly beans,gumballs or M&M's.

Looking for something for the little guys who can't eat candy or just want something a little healthier? Fill them with Fish Crackers. I saw this cute idea on The Moody Fashionista's Blog.

What you need to make Carrots

1. Piping bags (1 per carrot)

2. Green Ribbon

3. What ever orange filling you want....jelly beans,gumballs,m&m's, crackers

Directions

Fill piping bags with jelly beans and tie the end with green ribbon.

These are Cute and Easy.....what could be better?

How about Chocolate Dipped Peeps

I can't remember where I saw these sorry if any one knows I would be happy to give that person the credit.

Since the rage this season seems to be everything taste better on a stick I'm going to add a sucker stick and put them in a vase for a center piece for the kids table on Easter Sunday.

Ingredients

Peeps

Chocolate for melting

Easter Sprinkles

Directions

Melt chocolate in microwave or on top of store. Take your peeps and dip them in melted chocolate and roll in Easter Sprinkles

I would love to see or hear about what you are making for Easter. Have a great day!

Easter S'moores

Druuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuum Roll and the winner of a Weekend trip to Scrap-n-Away is Debbie. Congratulations! If you e-mail me with your address I will get your gift certificate out to you. I've been busy getting stuff together to start making Easter goodies. I'm off to get groceries in the morning. Here is one of my favorite things to make for the grand kids. I've posted it before but thought it was worth posting again since it is so easy and they love them. directed. *This gift jar may be created to suit any holiday for which marshmallow candies are available. Easter S'moores INGREDIENTS AND DIRECTIONS: 1. 1 1/4 cups of Easter M&M's 2. 8 marshmallow bunny peeps 3. 1 package of Graham Crackers 4.1/3 Cup Brown Sugar Spoon M&M's into jar first, then Peeps, then put combined brown sugar and graham cracker crumbs in baggie. I put a cute Easter napkin over lid before closing. Attach a gift tag with the following instructions: 1. Empty the jar contents into a bowl. Snip the bunnies into bits with kitchen sheers or cut up with a knife. Return the bunny bits to the mixture. Mix well. 2. Melt 1/2 cup butter; add 1 teaspoon vanilla. Pour this over the dry ingredients, mixing well. Pat into a greased 9" square pan. Bake at 350 degrees F for 15 minutes. Cool and cut into bars. (Makes 9 to 12 bars.) *Option - leave bunnies whole; combine remaining ingredients and place the bunnies on top; then bake as directed.

Finally the snow is melting and I am done with my taxes whooooooooohooooow! Now it's time to play. I've been wanting to get started making some Easter crafts. I will post them as I get them done....I will also post some cute ideas I've been seeing around.

The animals have been out in full force lately..... I guess they are enjoying the nice weather too. The birds and squirrels have been fighting over the bird feeder. I wish I could get a picture of this crazy squirrel. He gets on the gate and jumps onto the window trying to reach the bird feeder. Of course he falls off every time.....you think he would learn after the second time Oh no he keeps trying and trying. This poor little guy isn't going to give up. I felt so bad for him since he kept falling and never did make it to get any food so I put some out for him. We have also had jackrabbits playing in the snow. I didn't get a picture of them play but here is a picture of one of them the other one took of as fast as he could.

If you click on this picture you will see a woodpecker eating out of the bird feeder. Have a great day!

.

Snow,Snow and MORE SNOW

Ok enough is enough it can quit snowing anytime now. It's been snowing since Sunday. Ok not continuously but off and on. I am so OVER WINTER!!!! Poor Mark has been shoveling snow for days now and can't get caught up....it's kind of like laundry and dishes no matter how many times you do them there is still more :-) Poor Guy!

Today snow is just now starting to stick so there is only about 2" so far and accumulating rapidly. We still have power,sporadic phone service and absolutely no CELL service....text come in once in awhile but we can't return them. I'm not sure if this is a good thing or bad. It sure has been peaceful with no TV,Radio or Phone.

So enough about our situation here on the hill have you seen the new Pantone Colors for this Fall.....well here they are.....aren't they gorgeous?

WOMEN

MEN

No Power for over 24 hours

There was no late night scrapping here on Sunday even though the girls where stuck here until late on Monday. We lost power at about 7 on Sunday and didn't get it back until Monday night after 8. Just as I was trying to fix dinner by candle lite.

It was very quite around here. You could hear the branches and trees falling. All day Sunday and Monday you heard snow blowers from sun up til sundown. The snow in the driveway was over 3' deep. On the patio it was up to the railing.

We lost two trees and I'm not sure how many branches but they are all over the yard.

We are suppose to be getting another STORM tonight. I'm not sure how much longer we will have power. There are still a lot of power lines done and we could lose more if the winds get as strong as they are predicting.

I'm trying to decided if I want to go to work with Mark and stay at a friends house or just be here in the storm by myself. I pretty sure he won't be making it home until probably Sat.....we are suppose to get snow the rest of the week. I don't mind being here if we have electricity but it's a little hard around here with none and I'm not sure I'll have enough firewood to last that long. I'm sending Mark to get more wood now.....I don't want to be without heat. I can live without everything else but I draw the line at being cold.
....

Snowed In

It's the first day of Spring and we are snowed in. Here is what it looked like at noon today

Here's what it looked like at 3 and it is still snowing. The trees are so heavy with snow the branches are breaking and we have one large pine tree that fell over. They say it's suppose to be like this for the next 7 days. I feel sorry for the girl's families that are stuck here. Don't you wish it was you ;-)

Super Moon

Don't forget tonight is Super Moon so get out those cameras....this won't happen again until the year 2029!



We woke up this morning with a light dusting of snow on the ground GRRRRR I'm so over winter. I was soooo hoping Spring had arrived to stay....we've been having such nice weather and there are a few sings of Spring starting to pop up around here.



I've been knee deep in taxes YUG but I almost have them done HOORAY. Hopefully this week I will get them finished and out of the way. It is always such a relief when I get them finished.



I have had sometime to scrapbook with the girls at the retreats the last couple of weekends so that has been a lot of fun.




How many of have tons of Glimmer Mist and really don't use it.....raise your hand. O ya my hand is up there with the rest of you :-D Anyhooo today when I was blog surfing I saw this really cute table scape for Spring and guess what they used....YEP Glimmer Mist. So here is a picture and if you would like detailed instructions head on over to Tattered Angles

Rainbow Pudding

The snow is almost all gone YEEEEAAAAAA! as you probably can tell I'm not a big fan of snow. We have had way to much snow for me this year. I know it's not over but I'm always glad to see it disappear :-)



I've been working on some layouts for Saint Patrick's Day and Easter I will post them in a day or two. Until then here is something fun to try.

Ok so yesterday I found a site that showed you how to make GOLD and today I found RAINBOW PUDDING.....a great project you can make with your kids. What kid wouldn't love to make and eat these. I found this rainbow pudding over at MakeandTakes all you need is




Vanilla Pudding Mix




ingredients to make pudding




Several different colors of food color









Head on over to Make and Takes if you'd like to see how easy it to make....she has great pictures. What kid wouldn't love having their own pot of gold and rainbow pudding on St. Paddy's Day.






Come CELEBRATE SHAMROCK SEASON with SCRAP-N-AWAY. We will be serving up a blend of traditional Iris fare like Corned Beef and Cabbage,Colcannon Potatoes,Irish Bread and treats like Blarney Stones and Lucky Leprechaun Cookies.

How would you like to feel like a LUCKY LEPRECHAUN? We're going to add SAINT PATRICK'S DAY to your weekend on us....an

EXTRA 24 HOURS OF CROP TIME at NO COST TO YOU. The LUCK OF THE IRISH is certainly with you this weekend! so come join us on this 4 DAY WEEKEND
for a weekend of Relaxing,Scrapbooking,Food,FRIENDS and FUN!

Don't forget about our giveaway. Be sure you enter to win your chance to WIN a 3 DAY SCRAPBOOK RETREAT at SCRAP-N-AWAY! Don't scrapbook no worries bring your stamps,knitting,crocheting,quilting or whatever you like and just relax for the weekend and let us pamper you!

Pot of Gold

Need some GOLD for your LUCKY POT of GOLD? Aren't these rocks just the cutest thing ever. I can't wait to make them.....if you want to make them go on over to Yesterday on Tuesday she has a great turtrial on her blog. I know my grandkids are going to love these!

LUCK OF THE IRISH

Can you believe tomorrow is March 1st? Is March a LUCKY month for you......well it could be this year! We are going to giveaway a 3 DAY WEEKEND TO SCRAP-N-AWAY to one of our lucky readers. We are even giving you more than one chance to win. Here is all you have to do
1. Leave us a comment once or daily if you like.....you could have 31 entries just for saying hi!
2. Post about our giveaway on your blog,facebook, twitter ....each place you post gets you an entry.....just send us a link to where you posted
3. Become a Follower.....if you are already a follower just let us know and we will put your name in again.

We will be picking the winner at the end of March so you have plenty of time to get your entries in. Wishing you the LUCK OF THE IRSH!

Speaking of LUCK OF THE IRISH if you are interested in visiting us in March don't forget we have a SPECIAL WEEKEND on Mach 17-20. with 6 SPACES AVAILABLE

Come CELEBRATE SHAMROCK SEASON IN STYLE. We will be serving up a blend of traditional Iris fare like Corned Beef and Cabbage,Colcannon Potatoes,Irish Bread and treats like Blarney Stones and Lucky Leprechaun Cookies. How would you like to feel like a LUCKY LEPRECHAUN? We're going to add SAINT PATRICK'S DAY to your weekend on us....an EXTRA 24 HOURS OF CROP TIME at NO COST TO YOU. The LUCK OF THE IRISH is certainly with you this weekend! so come join us on this 4 DAY WEEKEND for a weekend of relaxing,scrapbooking,food,friends and fun!

I will also be posting some ideas for Saint Patrick's Day starting this week. Don't forget to come back daily and leave us a comment! We can't wait to hear from you.

Another Storm

Boy this week flew by. We had a Retreat from Friday - Monday and the next Retreat started on Thursday and goes to Sunday so we have been non stop. Monday Mark started his vacation so Tuesday we went to Santa Clarita so I could get my birthday facial and massage :-) (thanks to my wonderful friend Shelly). If you live in Santa Clarita and feel like pampering yourself you need to visit RoseMary's Salon her and her husband are wonderful! Wednesday we went to Bakersfield and spent the day spoiling our grand daughter. She is growing way to fast. She already 15 months old.

We are suppose to get hit with another storm tonight. We've had snow flurries off and on all day....they are saying we are suppose to get 1-2" of snow tonight. I hope not! I am so over winter LOL. Just like last weekend the girls are hoping for snow. This group is really hoping they get snowed in. In fact they are the only group that has ever been snowed in so they are hoping for a repeat ;-)

I found this wonderful soup recipe (can't remember where. I really should write down where I find these recipes) if you looking for something easy and YUMMMMMMY to fix in this cold weather

Tortellini Soup
Yield: 3-4 servings
Ingredients:
1 tbsp. olive oil
½ cup onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic,
minced½ tsp. dried oregano
1 (15 oz.) can diced tomatoes, with juices
4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
9 oz. tortellini, any variety (fresh or frozen)
3 cups fresh baby spinach, loosely packed Salt and pepper and Grated Parmesan, for serving
Directions:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the onions to the pan and cook until beginning to soften, about 5 minutes. Add in the garlic and cook, stirring frequently, just until fragrant, about 1 minute. Mix in the oregano and diced tomatoes. Add the broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil. Add the tortellini to the pot and cook according to the package directions. One minute before the tortellini is fully cooked, stir in the spinach. Remove from the heat. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm with grated Parmesan as desired.

I usually double this recipe it taste great the next day too! This really a must try recipe it's so easy and good! Let me know how you like it.

Only 8" of Snow

We were suppose to get up to 2' of snow. We ended up only getting about 8" . Here are a couple of pictures. this is what it looked like yesterday morning and here is what it looks like this morning

It's Snowing

We woke to a light dusting of snow this morning. It's snowing lightly now and we are suppose to get 1-2' of snow today. I was so hoping the snow was gone for the year LOL A girl can dream can't she. Those of you driving up today please drive safely.

Are you getting ready for Saint Patrick's Day? I will be posting some cute ideas and recipes for you later this week. This is one of my friends favorite holidays you would think she was Irish LOL anywho I want to make her something special....she has been having a real ruff time lately.

I hope you all have a wonderful Presidents Weekend! Talk to you soon!

35 degrees out

It's 35 degrees out and I have to go shopping. This Sunny Southern California girl isn't looking forward to leaving this nice warm house to a cold car. We have a 4 day retreat this weekend so I have to go get groceries or I wouldn't be leaving LOL

The group that is coming this weekend wanted snow......well we are suppose to be getting up to 8" of snow this weekend. That should make them happy.....not me I'm ready for summer or at least spring.

Don't forget to order your pictures from Snapfish. $5 for a 100 pictures and that includes shipping. I ordered mine last night. I can't wait to get them and have time to scrap them. I ordered pictures of my 3 year old grandson's first time in the snow. The kids where having so much fun sledding and making snow angels.

I need to go to town (grocery shopping is now an all day trip now) so I best get going. Have a great day!

100 PRINTS ONLY $5

Yes 100 prints for only $5 and that includes shipping!!!!! Head on over to Snapfish before it is to late this offer expires February 20. Here is Snapfish's offer


Share every Valentine's Day smile
Every moment is for keeps when you order 1004" x 6" prints for only $5, shipped! Show,share, and save your Valentine's Day celebrations. Our top-quality prints are guaranteed to last a lifetime - really! Upload your Valentine's Day photos, order 1004" x 6" prints, then use coupon CUPID PICS and they're yours for just $5, delivered.Spread your Snappiness and save today! Offer expires February 20, 2011.*

I have to go order my pictures :-) Have a great day!

DRUM ROLL PLEASE

Drum roll Please...............the lucky winner is....oh wait I can't pick just one. How would all of you like to win? It is Valentine's Day after all! Ending with Shelia if you will e-mail at bonnie@scrap-n-away.com I will send all of you a gift certificate for $25 to Scrap-N-Away. Happy Valentine's Day!

Happy Valentine's Day

Happy Valentine's Day!

We hope you have something special planned for today. I am making Mark a one of his favorite dinners when he gets home from work.

I also decided I want to do something for you. I am going to be giving away a $25 gift certificate to Scrap-N-Away to one lucky reader...... all you have to do is leave us a comment.

No time

I really thought I was going to have a lot more time to blog now that we have moved to the Retreat. Oh that is so far from the truth.....I am busier now then ever before. We have had back to back 4 day retreats so by the time I clean,do the laundry it's time to go to town to get groceries. OK I know going to get groceries doesn't sound like much but it is now an all day process. It's the one day a week I get to town so I have to make sure I get all my errands done on that day.

I haven't even had time to start my Valentine's Day crafts. I hope to have time to get them done this week since we are heading to Pismo Beach next weekend. Yea we need the break it's been non stop since Christmas and it will be non stop for another month when we get back.

Here are a couple of things I hope to get made this coming week. Aren't these suckers adorable. I found them over at Skip to My Lou. I only have large candy canes left so I hope they will turn out. I was to late to find the small candy canes.

I also want to try making Hot Chocolate on a spoon with home made marshmallows. I don't have a picture of them to share yet but if I get them made I will take pictures.

Heart in a Cupcake

I've been really busy lately so I haven't had time to post anything but I had to share these with you. I saw these adorable cupcakes over at Bake it in a Cake , Where you will find the directions on how to make them. They are supper easy. I can't wait to make these for my grandkids!

I will be posting more Valentines ideas soon. We have another 4 day Retreat this weekend so I will probably not be back until Monday. Have a great weekend.

Banana Pecan Waffles

If you are looking for a Specail Breakfast for Valentine's Day (or anyday) these waffles are sooooooooooooo good.

Pecan Waffles with Roasted Pecan and Banana Syrup

Ingredients
1 1/2 cups flour
1/3 cup ground pecans
1/3 sugar
1 tablespoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoons salt
2 egg yolks
1 teaspoons vanilla
1 3/4 cups milk
1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons melted butter
2 egg whites
1 cup pecan pieces
2 whole bananas, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch slices
2 1/2 cups maple syrup
Directions
In a mixing bowl combine flour, pecans, sugar, baking powder and salt. In another bowl beat the egg yolks and vanilla slightly. Beat the milk and 1/2 cup melted butter into the egg mixture. Fold the flour mixture into the egg mixture. Stir until combined yet still slightly lumpy. In a small bowl beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gently fold beaten egg whites into batter, leaving little fluffs of egg whites. Pour 1 cup batter onto grids of a preheated, lightly greased waffle iron. Close lid quickly: do not open during baking. Bake according to the manufacturer's directions for the waffle iron.

In a saute pan, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons butter. Add the pecan pieces and saute until golden, about 2 to 3 minutes. Add the banana slices and syrup and bring the liquid to a simmer


I saw the recipe on Emeril Lagasse. I made them this weekend for the girls at the retreat and they loved them.

I haven't had time to doing any crafting this week....it's a really sort week. My last retreat ended on Monday and the next one starts on Thursday so I've been busy trying to get ready. I hope to get some Valentine crafts done this next week. I hope you are having a great week.

Red Hot Valentine Popcorn

This is a favorite anytime of the year especially if you like cinnamon.

Red Hot Valentine Popcorn

Ingredients
2 cups popcorn, popped
9 oz bag Red Hots or Cinnamon Imperials
1/4 cup Karo syrup
1/2 cup Butter
1 teaspoon vanilla
1/2 teaspoon baking soda

Directions:
Microwave candies, Karo, and butter 4 minutes on high, stirring after 2 minutes.
Add vanilla and baking soda and stir until light and foamy.
Pour syrup over popped popcorn in large brown paper bag. Microwave at 1 minute intervals, shaking after each minute, until corn is evenly coated.
Repeat several times.
Cool on cookie sheet.
Serves: 6
Preparation time: 20 minutes

Enjoy!

I can't believe the weather here.....last week we had snow on the ground and this week it's in the high 60's - low 70's. I'm loving the warmer weather. I was just telling my DH that it was about time for me to go stay in my old stomping grounds for a few days so I could get a break from the snow. Now I guess I will have to use the beach for an excuse to escape here for a few days. LOL

It's time to go make breakfast so I better run. Have a great day!
Bonnie

Head on over to Alpha Mom to make these adorable bird feeders for your little feathered friends for Valentine's Day.....aren't they adorable.

Valentine's Day Crafts

I thought it would be fun to share Valentine ideas with you so stop by from now until Valentine's Day to see all the ideas. I would also like to see any ideas you have. We will be having a GIVE AWAY for anyone who sends us a Valentine craft or recipe idea. The drawing will be on Valentine's Day. You can add your link at the bottom of this post.


Here is one of my favorites.



Valentine's Day is just around the corner so I thought it would be fun to start sharing some Valentine ideas with you. I made this heart last year for a swap I was in. They are so much fun....I am going to make a couple this year for friends.



Here's a list of supplies
1 Heart Shaped Box I used an 8" box
Paint whatever color you want you heart to be
Lace
Bird
Flowers
or whatever you would like to decorate your box....anything can be used.


Step 1
Paint your box and let dry





Step 2
Decorate with whatever you like. I used a white bird I died pink (I used red food coloring to dye him) I printed the banner on my computer and cut it out.
The at is paper covered in glitter.

I hope you have fun making these. I love to use them for gift boxes This is my first time using Mr Linky's so I hope this works.

2011 Calendar

This has been a truly wonderful Holiday Season for us. All of our children and grand children came to visit at some point during the Holidays. The last of the family left yesterday.

We had plenty of snow for the kids to go sledding. They all had so much fun. It was my youngest grandson's first time to play in the snow. He tried so hard to keep up with the bigger kids from making snow angels to snowball fights or sledding he wanted in on the action.

We were even snowed in for day. My DH wasn't able to make it home from work.....luckily I had 2 of my grandson's here to keep me company. We played games and drank hot chocolate.

They even filmed a short film here of this past weekend so the grand kids that where over the weekend got to see how movies are made. Here is a sneak peak of them getting ready for a scene








Now that the Holidays are over and all the company's gone it's time to get back to work so I thought I would post our 2011 Calendar here for those of you who may not receive our newsletter.


+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
SPECIAL WEEKEND

JAN.14-17 for SNOW MUCH FUN! 7 SPACES AVAILABLE SPECIAL WEEKEND

We may not have snow but we are going to give you AN EXTRA SNOW DAY to
scrap on us.
Snow or no Snow we are going to have Snow much fun....join us on 3 on
Friday and stay until Monday at 3. The fire will be roaring the chocolate
will be brewing and the creativity will be flowing....so grab your
supplies, call your BFF'S and join us for a SNOW MUCH FUN WEEKEND!
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++Jan.20-23
Full
Jan.28-30 4 Spaces Available
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
FEBRUARY
Feb.3-6 4 SPACES AVAILABLE
Feb.10-13 11 SPACES AVAILABLE SPECIAL WEEKEND
Feb.18-21 3 SPACES AVAILABLE
Feb.24-27 8 SPACES AVAILABLE
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
SPECIAL WEEKEND

FEBRUARY 10-13 BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION
It's my birthday on Thursday so come join us for MY BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION!
We will be having cake and ice cream on Thursday. Come join us for cake
and ice cream and stay for the weekend. I will be giving you a present for
joining me on my birthday. How would you like an extra day of crop time
for HALF PRICE? Join us for 4 days for $375 COME AT 3 ON THURSDAY AND STAY
UNTIL 3 ON SUNDAY.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

MARCH

March 4-6 11 SPACES AVAILABLE
March 11-13 8 SPACES AVAILABLE
March 17-20 11 SPACES AVAILABLE SPECIAL WEEKEND
March 25-27 11 SPACES AVAILABLE
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
SPECIAL WEEKEND

March 17-20 LUCK OF THE IRISH 11 SPACES AVAILABLE

Come CELEBRATE SHAMROCK SEASON IN STYLE. We will be serving up a blend of
traditional Iris fare like Corned Beef and Cabbage,Colcannon
Potatoes,Irish Bread and treats like Blarney Stones and Lucky Leprechaun
Cookies. Feeling like a LUCKY LEPRECHAUN? You should we're going to add
SAINT PATRICK'S DAY to your weekend on us....an EXTRA 24 HOURS OF CROP
TIME at NO COST TO YOU. The LUCK OF THE IRISH is certainly with you this
weekend!
****************************************************************************

APRIL
April 1-3 11 SPACES AVAILABLE
April 8-10 11 SPACES AVAILABLE
April 14-17 11 SPACES AVAILABLE SPECIAL WEEKEND
April 22-24 FULL
April 28-May 1 4 SPACES AVAILABLE
****************************************************************************
SPECIAL WEEKEND

APRIL 15-17 TAX BREAK
I don't know about you but I need a break after I do my taxes. So for all
you tax preparers and for those of us who just frazzled getting
everything ready to give to your tax prepare we are going to give you a
nice little break. How would you like to join us for 4 days for a nice
PRICE BREAK OF $100 OFF? Yes join us for a 4 day weekend and we will take
a $100 off the regular price of $425. This offer is NOT good for 3 days.
****************************************************************************
MAY

WE HAVE TWO SPECIAL WEEKENDS THIS MONTH!!! ONE FOR MOM'S AND ONE FOR
MILITARY!

May 5-8 11 SPACES AVAILABLE SPECIAL WEEKEND
May 13-15 11 SPACES AVAILABLE
May 20-22 11 SPACES AVAILABLE
May 27-30 11 SPACES AVAILABLE SPECIAL WEEKEND
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
MOTHER'S DAY SPECIAL
MAY 5-8
Bring MOM for a 4 day weekend and still be home in time to CELEBRATE
MOTHER'S DAY with YOUR FAMILY. That's right sneak away for a 4 day weekend
(don't forget to bring Mom) so the family can plan something special for
you while you are away,and as a special gift to all you MOM'S out there we
want to GIVE YOU THURSDAY ON US as our way of saying HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY.
Join us for a 4 day retreat for $325. Happy Mother's Day!
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
MILITARY DAY
MAY 27-30
Do you have a Military ID? If so you will want to join us on MILITARY DAY.
Anyone with a MILITARY ID GETS A 4 DAY WEEKEND FOR $300....can't get away
for 4 days COME FOR 3 DAYS FOR $250. Mark and I want to say THANK YOU FOR
ALL YOU DO.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
JUNE

TWO SPECIAL WEEKENDS THIS MONTH TOO!!!!!


June 3-5 11 SPACES AVAILABLE SPECIAL WEEKEND
June 10-12 11 SPACES AVAILABLE THURSDAY NOT AVAILABLE THIS WEEKEND June
17-19 11 SPACES AVAILABLE FATHER'S DAY
June 25-26 11 SPACES AVAILABLE
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
SCHOOL BREAK
JUNE 3-5
This maybe the last weekend to get away before SCHOOL'S OUT so why not
take this chance to pamper yourself before the kid's are home for the
summer. Join us for a 4 day weekend and will give you an extra 7 hours of
crop time for free. Come at NOON on THURSDAY and stay until 5 on Sunday.
We will even include an Lunch on Sunday for those of you who want to stay
late. $425 for the weekend
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Father's Day Special
June 16-18
Join us on THURSDAY Father's Day weekend and leave on SATURDAY so you can
be home in time to do something SPECIAL FOR YOUR DARLING HUSBAND or stay
until SUNDAY it's up to you. We will have a SPECIAL FATHER'S DAY GIFT FOR
YOU TO MAKE AND TAKE HOME PLUS we will be adding extra hours of crop time
to get the project done so it doesn't interrupt with your crop time. So
join us at noon on Thursday and stay as late as you want on SATURDAY
night....if your are staying until SUNDAY you may also stay as late as you
like on Sunday.$325 for 3 days $425 for 4 days
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
JULY
JUNE 30-JULY 3 11 SPACES AVAILABLE SPECIAL WEEKEND
JULY 7-10 FULL
July 15-17 11 SPACES AVAILABLE
July 21-24 11 SPACES AVAILABLE SPECIAL WEEKEND
JULY 29-30 11 SPACES AVAILABLE
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
YES WE ARE DOING IT AGAIN 2 SPECIAL WEEKENDS

JUNE 30-JULY 3 FIREWORK'S SALE
Come CELEBRATE THE 4TH OF JULY with us. Join us on Thursday at 3 and stay
until Sunday at 3. We want to make this a weekend to CELEBRATE so we will
add THUR DAY FOR THE EXPLOSIVE PRICE OF A SPARKLER. YES bring a SPARKLER
and get THURSDAY ON US! You might also want TO make sure you bring your
appetite Mark will be FIRING UP the GRILL with some finger linking tri-tip
and CHICKEN so get out your napkins. If you haven't been here to CELEBRATE
THE 4TH with us NOW is the time!
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
JULY 22-24 TIMEOUT
Need a little time to yourself. I know it can get hectic with the kids out
of school so WHY NOT TAKE A TIMEOUT to REFRESH YOURSELF! Yes everyone
needs a timeout to time BE REFRESHED. Why not take a little time to get
your sanity back and join us for a fun and relaxing weekend with some of
your BFF'S. so BRING A FRIEND AND YOU SAVE $50 EACH
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
AUGUST
August 5-7 11 SPACES AVAILABLE SPECIAL WEEKEND
August 11-14 11 SPACES AVAILABLE SPECIAL WEEKEND
August 19-21 11 SPACES AVAILABLE SPECIAL WEEKEND
August 26-28 11 SPACES AVAILABLE SPECIAL WEEKEND
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
SPECIAL WEEKEND

SIZZLING HOT SUMMER DEAL
PICK ANY WEEKEND IN AUGUST AND SAVE $25 OFF A 3 DAY WEEKEND & $50 on a 4
DAY WEEKEND. BRING A GROUP OF 8 OR MORE TO ANY WEEKEND AND EVERYONE GETS
THE 4TH DAY ON US!
****************************************************************************
SEPTEMBER
Sept. 2-4
Sept. 9-11
Sept.16-17
Set.22-25
Sept.30- Oct. 2
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++SPECIAL
WEEKEND

BACK TO SCRAPPIN' SPECIAL
SEPTEMBER 22-25
WOW can you believe Summer is over and the kids are already BACK TO
SCHOOL? Now's the time for you to get back to scrappin' so why not call
your BFF'S and tell them we are running a get back to SCRAPPIN' SPECIAL.
Join us on Thursday at 3 until Sunday at 3 and for a SCRAPPIN' GOOD PRICE
OF $325 FOR A 4 DAY WEEKEND....that's one Scrappin' Good Deal!
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
OCTOBER
Oct.7-9 11 SPACES AVAILABLE
Oct.14-16 11 SPACES AVAILABLE
Oct.21-23 11 SPACES AVAILABLE
Oct.27-30 11 SPACES AVAILABLE SPECIAL WEEKEND
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
SPECIAL WEEKEND
SCARE THE CROP OUT OF U' SPECIAL
OCTOBER 27-30

Our Spooktacular Scare the Crop Out of U' Special
Don't be afraid to stay. There will be gruesome meals, spooktackular
prizes and special treats for anyone who wears a costume. Not to mention
if your daring to enough to stay with us we're trick or TREATING you to
Thursday FREE! Don't miss out on seeing Scrap-N-Away adorned in all it's
Spooky attire...it will be SPOOKTACULAR!!!
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++Nov.4-6
11 SPACES AVAILABLE
Nov.10-13 11 SPACES AVAILABLE SPECIAL WEEKEND
Nov.18-20 11 SPACES AVAILABLE
Nov.25-28 11 SPACES AVAILABLE SPECIAL WEEKEND
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
GOBBLE UP THE SAVINGS THIS MONTH WITH TWO SPECIAL WEEKENDS

NOVEMBER 10-13
JOIN US ON THURSDAY for a 4 DAY WEEKEND and bring a NEW (someone who has
never been here)friend and get THURSDAY ON US! It's your last chance to
get those Holiday Projects done before the Holidays kick off.

IN BETWEEN BREAK
NOVEMBER 25-28
Are tired from all the Holiday cooking already why not take a BREAK IN
BETWEEN HOLIDAYS and get a much need rest before it starts all over again.
Join us on Friday at 3 until Monday at 3 and we're giving you an extra
savings you'll want to GOBBLE UP BEFORE IT'S GONE. Not only will we be
doing all the cooking I promise no TURKEY. We are giving you MONDAY AS OUR
WAY OF SAYING THANK YOU FOR BEING SUCH GREAT CUSTOMERS. WE ARE TRULY
THANKFUL FOR YOUR BUSINESS.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
DECEMBER
Dec.1-4 11 SPACES AVAILABLE SPECIAL WEEKEND
DEC.8-11 11 SPACES AVAILABLE SPECIAL WEEKEND
DEC.15-19 11 SPACES AVAILABLE SPECIAL WEEKEND
DEC.23-25 NO RETREAT MERRY CHRISTMAS
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
We are in the HOLIDAY SPIRIT OF GIVING so JOIN US ANY WEEKEND IN DECEMBER
and we are GIVING YOU THURSDAY ON US. HAPPY HOLIDAYS!
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Have a great day and be sure and let us know you stopped by.....leave us a comment we love to hear from you!

Snowed In

I know I said I wouldn't be posting anything until next week however since we are snowed in I thought I would show you a couple of pictures. I know those of you back East are going to laugh when you see what it takes to bring Southern CA roads to a halt....just 8" of snow....yes I said 8" not feet! Ya I know go ahead and laugh.

In fact my DH couldn't even get home from work last night. He had to turn around and go back to our son's house to spend the night. Poor thing he never sleeps well when he isn't in his own bed so I am so glad he did make it home this afternoon. We were a little worried when I called for the road conditions and the person I talked to said the roads would be closed until Wednesday. They opened the I-5 around 12:30 this afternoon.

I have two of my grandson's here with me so luckily I had someone to keep me company lastnight while he was gone. We played cards and drank hot chocolate. They were so cute....when they woke up one of them asked "Grandma since we are snowed in does that mean we can't go outside and play in the snow?" They went out sledding for about an hour then decided it was to cold. LOL

100 PRINTS 4 99 CENTS

Here's a great deal for all your Holiday pictures!

SNAPFISH
Penny Prints are here!
Get 99 prints for 1 cent each!
There's still time to get 99 4" x 6"
mail-order prints for 99 cents

Remember all of those great pictures of
friends and family from the holidays? Order
now to get all of them for just a penny
each - 99 4" x 6" mail-order prints for just
99 cents! Don't miss this great opportunity
to get all your favorite moments printed for
less than a $1.

Just use code 2011PENNY at checkout by
11:59PM PST on January 9th

Happy 2011

Just a quick Hello to say Happy New Years. Wishing you and your loved ones a year filled with happiness,love and prosperity.

We are still busy celebrating the Holidays with family. Our Grandkids are out of school until Jan 10th. so I am busy playing with grandkids. I will be back on Jan. 10th with some new and exciting things for 2011. So be sure and come back.

Merry Christmas

HO HO HO Merry Christmas....I'm going to be very busy the next few days so I'm going to wish you all a very Merry Christmas now. The kids will be here in awhile so I need to finish wrapping presents and finish the last minute baking. I hope Santa brings you all your dreams. May God Bless you and keep you safe during the holidays.

White Christmas

It's finally starting to like Christmas around here. WHOOOOHOOOO :-)
We've had rain all week and it finally starting snowing a little while ago. We have 3" so far and it's still coming.

The kids start coming in tomorrow so it will really start feeling like Christmas around here. I just wish all the kids could be here it would be fun to have all our grandkids at once. This year we get to spend Christmas with two of our 4 sons and thier families. We will miss the rest of them.

Stuffing Recipe

Anyone cooking a turkey for Christmas?

Here is a turkey recipe that also includes the use of popcorn as a stuffing -- imagine that. When I found this recipe, I thought it as perfect for people like me,
who just are not sure how to tell when poultry is thoroughly cooked, but not dried out. Give this a try.



8 - 15 lb. turkey
1 cup melted butter
1 cup stuffing (Pepperidge Farm is Good.)
1 cup uncooked popcorn (ORVILLE REDENBACHER'S LOW FAT)
Salt/pepper to taste

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Brush turkey well with melted butter
salt, and pepper. Fill cavity with stuffing and popcorn. Place in
baking pan with the neck end toward the back of the oven.

Listen for the popping sounds. When the turkey's butt blows the
oven door open and the bird flies across the room, it's done.


Sorry lady's but I couldn't resit. I hope you had a good laugh ;-)

Have a great day!

Glitter Ornaments

Glitter Ornaments are very popular this year so I wanted to share with you how easy and inexpensive they are to make....all you need is

Clear Glass Ornament (I bought mine at Micheals)
Super FINE Glitter (I used Martha Stewart) I tried other types but SUPER FINE works the best
Liquid Hair Spray (I got mine at the dollar store)
Rhinestones
White Self Liner or color of your choice.

I embellished mine with rhinestones I found at Micheals. The names I cut out of with from dollar store white self liner using the cricut

I also made these cute little boxes from the cricut cartridge tags,bags,boxes and more to put them. If you make them be sure and use card stock weight paper. I used double sided so they were just as cute on the inside. I made them on a 12x12 mat. I used the largest setting I could and still stay within the cutting lines.

The little hat is for our newest grand daughter Eliana....isn't it adorable? I'm also making her a white one. Any ideas on what color to make the flower?

Have a great day!

Peppermint Mint Fudge

It's been Cold and Rainy here and we have no snow yet. I'm hoping for a White Christmas so hopefully we will get some soon. Christams Eve would be good then I won't have to worry about the kids driving in the snow to get here. Then it can go away until 2012 LOL. Most of the our kids are coming here for the Holidays. We wish they could all make it but that doesn't look like it's going to happen this year.


I've been busy finishing up Christmas presents,holding retreats,still trying to get unpacked from the move and get Holiday Baking done.

Today I am making Chex mix and Candy. Here is my recipe for

Peppermint Mint Fudge


12 ounce package vanilla chips
16 ounce can vanilla frosting
1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
8 drops red food coloring if desired
crushed peppermint candies or candy canes or a smattering of peppermint sprinkles

Line an 8-inch square pan with wax paper. Melt the vanilla chips in the microwave, stirring until smooth. Mix in the frosting and peppermint extract. Spread the creamy goodness into the prepared pan. Drip the food coloring over the fudge and swirl decoratively with a knife. Sprinkle with crushed candies and chill until set.
I promise you won't be able to stop eating this :-) it is so yummy

GYPSY BUNDLE

I Love Love Love my Gypsy so I want to share this great deal with you. Over at Cricut.comThey have the Gypsy portable design studio, a chic gold/black silicone sleeve to protect and adorn your Gypsy, a stylus 3 pack (each a different color), and a vehicle power adapter so you can take the show on the road. All this for $109. This is a great deal for any of you who have been thinking of getting one or maybe you need to let Santa know where to pick one up for you!

Does your family like Rice Crispy Treats who doesn't right. Wells here is a recipe you are going to love.

TOASTED CANDY BAR RICE CRISPY TREATS

Ingredients
12 Cups Rice Crispy cereal
2 10.5 oz bags mini marshmallows
6 Tablespoons butter
1 Cup chocolate chips
3 Cups mini marshmallows
10 mini Twix candy bars, chopped
10 mini Snicker candy bars, chopped

1. Prepare rice crispy treats according to directions on the cereal box, make sure to DOUBLE the recipe. Press into a buttered 9X13 inch baking dish.

2. Preheat oven’s broiler and position top rack in middle of oven NOT the top (if rack is to close to the broiler, the marshmallows will burn). Sprinkle chocolate chips over rice crispy treats. Sprinkle 3 Cups mini marshmallows over top. Broil just until marshmallows start to puff and turn golden brown.

3. Remove from oven and press chopped candy bars over toasted marshmallows. Let cool for at least 1 hour before serving. Hope you enjoy! It doesn't last long aroung here so before and get some before it is gone!

Have a great day!
Bonnie

I saw this over at Cookies and Cupcakes and knew I had to make it for my grandkids for Christmas. Go on over to her blog for detailed instructions.

Hot Chocolate Cones

Another favorite are these cute stocking stuffer. They're great for the kiddo's both big and small! Who doesn't love hot chocolate!

Hot Chocolate Cones

Ingredients

Plastic Piping Bags, hot chocolate mix, chocolate chips or peppermint candies crushed, mini marshmallows, chocolate kiss


You need two bags per cone.

1. Add the drinking chocolate to one piping bag -- I put in about 4 table spoons. Tape or tie off the top of the bag with an elastic band and snip off the top of the plastic leaving about 1/2 inche of plastic above the tie.
2. Insert the drinking chocolate cone into your second plastic piping bag.Hold formally round the top so the chips don't fall down the side.
3. Add in chocolate chips (just as much as you think looks good).
4. Add mini marshmallows on top
5. Add a Chocolate on top of that. You could add a gumdrop, after dinner mint,crushed candy canes or peppermint candies ect. Then just tie it all of at the top with an elastic band.

6.Add ribbon, and tag and a little how to on the bag of the tag (snip of the end of the cone to empty the chocolate into a cup - add chocolate chips, milk and water. It's so so Easy, Hope you Enjoy!!!

These cones are also adorable filled with different size and colors of gumballs,jellybeans,skittles ect.

Christmas Stocking Tradition

Our stocking tradition started 32 years ago when I made these felt stocking for my boys.











Since then I have made over 20 more. Here are a couple of the others












My daughter-in-law Jessica is the one who started this. She wanted me to make one for her and then everyone wanted one. LOL I now try to have one done for each child on their first Christmas. After many years and stockings later we now have walls covered in felt stocking. The stockings all stay at our home. One of the first thing the kids do when they get for here for Christmas is look to see where their Stocking is hung. Even if they can't read they know which stocking is theirs :-)

We want to hear what are some of your families favorite Christmas Traditions?
Have a great day!

Swedish Cream Waffers

This has to be my all time favorite cookie recipe. I don't think I am the only one in my house either....they are gone before I can even get them frosted!

Swedish Cream Wafers
makes: 5 dozen

1 cup butter, softened
1/3 cup heavy whipping cream
2 cups sifted all-purpose flour
granulated sugar
Combine the butter and whipping cream.
Add the flour.
Refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

Preheat oven to 375F.
On a floured board, roll out 1/3 of the dough at a time to 1/8 inch thick.
Cut with 1-1/2 inch round cookie cutter.
Place lots of granulated sugar in a shallow bowl.
Coat cookies with the sugar on both sides.
Place rounds on ungreased baking sheets.
Prick each round with a fork about 4 times.
Bake 7 to 9 minutes.
Let cookies cool.

filling
1/4 cup butter, softened
3/4 cup sifted powdered sugar
1 egg yolk, optional
1 teaspoon vanilla
food coloring, optional Make the filling by beating 1/4 cup butter, powdered sugar, egg yolk and vanilla together.
Tint with food coloring, if desired. I use red and green for Christmas and add peppermint instead of vanilla


When cookies have cooled make sandwiches by placing some filling between two cookies.

Kicked up Paper Christmas Tree

Do you remember making Christmas Tress out of Reader Digest or some other old magazine? I saw these on someones blog and I am so sorry I don't remember who's. If anyone knows please let me know so I can give them the credit they are do.

Anywhoo....Aren't they gorgeous? Click on picture to enlarge. Guess what I will be doing today....Yep. I already have my magazines ready so while I'm watching the News I will be folding my magazines. My DH brought me home spray paint last night so I'm ready to go :-)

For those of you who have never made these they are very simple. Take your magazine and break the spine now take the top of the first page and fold it into the spine then fold the bottom of the page up into the spine. See how it resembles a tree. Continue until all the pages are folded, decorate as desired. This is a great project for the KIDS!

Banana Stuffed French Toast

Over the next 25 days I thought it would be fun to share some of our families favorite recipes,traditions and gifts.

Here is a favorite breakfast recipe. I don't remember where I got this recipe but I've been making it for years now. It is one of my husbands favorites it's also a great recipe for Christmas morning since it can be made the night before and popped into the oven to cook while the kids are opening their presents. ENJOY!


Banana Stuffed French Toast
8 slices of texas toast
3 bananas
4 eggs
1 small can evaporated milk
1 tbl vanilla

Tear toast and put in bottom of 12x9 pan. Mash bananas add milk eggs and vanilla pour over bread and soak overnight.

Streusel Topping
1/4 cup butter melted
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 cup pecans chopped

mix together and pour over bread mixture just before baking. Bake at 350 for 30-45 minutes. Serve with powdered sugar or syrup


What are your families favorites? Let us know....we'd love to hear from you! Have a great day.

Free Class

Today is the LAST DAY to sign up for the Inspiration Everywhere class by Jessica Sprague! You have until midnight tonight to register. Oh, and did I happen to mention that the class is FREE!


There's no reason to miss out on this one....it's going to be a great class.
click hereto register

Unpacking

We finally got all moved....now if we just get unpacked. I don't have to many boxes to unpack but finding somewhere to put this stuff is another question. We really didn't need to bring anything to this house, but you know I couldn't get rid of my crafting supplies. I do think I am going to have to get rid of some of it though or maybe I just need to have fewer hobbies LOL! Moving is definitely no fun in my book.


Look who woke me this AM



Do you see him in the top of the tree? This city girl now country girl woke up to a woodpecker pecking on her house. I couldn't figure out who was knocking on my bedroom door until I opened the door and saw the woodpecker fly off. What a relief I surely didn't want someone to see me with my PJ's on and my hair uncombed. LOL I don't think I like being woke up at the break of dawn thinking someone is at my bedroom door only to findout it was a bird. Of course he flew away when I opened the door he probably went to take a nap ;-) Anyone know how to get rid of this little pesky bird without hurting him? I definitely don't want him waking me every morning or pecking at my house.