Welcome to Shady Creek Lane

THRIFTY IDEAS FROM PINTEREST

2012-01-26T12:23:00.000-08:00

On my Pinterest homepage I have a board (category) titled Nifty and Thrifty. Today I thought I would show you some Thrifty ideas I have pinned.

Please Note: I have not tried all of these yet but hope to soon.

1. This is a good idea. Make your own dishwasher detergent and scouring powder.

2. So how many of us have baking sheets that look like the right side of this pan? You know you do and so do I but this looks like a great solution to this dilemma. Check here for the "miracle" products that change this uck, yucky looking pan to a cleaned up finish.

3. How about a homemade recipe for Mod Podge? Head on over the the DIY Diva's blog for the recipe. This is a great savings as Mod Podge can be a little on the expensive side. I actually did make some of this and it worked great.

4. Do you love Febreze? I spray it quite often as we have a neighborhood roaming cat that likes to leave his scent on our front porch. (Go here and see the post about me wanting to kill it. I actually got a pellet shot off at him but I missed him.) Here is the link. I can't wait to try this.

5. Do you have microfiber fabric furniture? It is great and wears well but it can get to looking a little dingy and trying to clean it with a water based cleaner can leave spots when it dries. Here is a great tip for cleaning your furniture without leaving spots.

6. Here is a great tip for cleaning mattresses.

I need to go and get started on some deep cleaning (except for the homemade Mod Podge which makes me want to go decoupage something) now that I have some inspiration from Pinterest.

Happy Cleaning

and crafting~!

A PROJECT INSPIRED BY PINTEREST

2012-01-23T11:29:00.000-08:00

I must admit that I have never been into quilting. I think the perfectness of cutting the fabric is what intimidates me along with the whole matching up the seams. However, my friend Christine has a web sight that sells fabric packs where the fabric is already matched up and cut. Now that is very appealing to me. No trying to choose fabrics and colors and all the cutting is done for you. I bought what is called a Jelly Roll which is 40 strips of fabric cut to 2 1/2" by 40". I then came across this rag quilt on Pinterest and thought it might be something I might be able to make.

Click HERE for a great tutorial on how to make this quilt.

Here is the particular Jelly Roll I used, it is called Origins by Basic Grey. I also bought 2 1/2 yards of a yellow fabric and cut 40 strips for the backing of each of the Jelly Roll strips.

I gathered together my sewing supplies and set about to make my quilt.

Here are some of the strips that I have put together with the batting in between.

And here is a shot of the first eight strips sewn together. The seams will be clipped and frayed when the whole quilt is finished.

WHO SAYS PEOPLE ONLY PIN THINGS ON PINTEREST?

MY GOAL IS TO ACTUALLY MAKE SOME THINGS TOO.

Hopefully I will be able to show the finished project by the end of the week.

What have you made with your Pinterest inspirations? I would love to hear about them.

DID SOMEONE SAY SNOW?

2012-01-18T10:57:00.000-08:00

JUST LAST WEEK I WAS ABOUT TO DO A POST COMPLAINING ABOUT NOT HAVING ANY SNOW AND IT WAS THE MIDDLE OF JANUARY.

Little did I know that we would be hit with snow for four days straight. This morning we woke up to about 7 more inches of snow and it was still coming down. Luckily it stopped and has warmed up and the snow is starting to melt. I live in what is called the lowlands, that is lower than 200 ft. above sea level. Those living in the surrounding areas that go up to about 1200 feet got it way worse than we did. One friend that lives at about 1000 ft. got 28 inches. That is crazy for this part of the country. North of us, in the Olympia, Tacoma and Seattle areas are supposed to get more snow today and into tomorrow.

It is really beautiful, especially if I don't have to go anywhere.

THIS WEEKS PINTEREST PICKS

2012-01-16T18:20:00.000-08:00

My favorite picks for pinterest this week beginning at top left and going clockwise:

1. Cute heart hair clips from Sugar Bee Crafts
2. Love this ruffled bag from RubyJu (I actually never did find this bag on their blog but boy do they have lots of eye candy and really cool stuff to look at. It would be worth your time to pop in and browse around).
3. Wonderful idea for the laundry room. Check it out here at TrophyW.
4. Love the simplicity of this muslin pillow that you will find at Just Another Hangup.
5. Unique photo frames were found at Dittle Dattle.

FLOWERS MADE FROM PAPER GROCERY BAGS

2012-01-15T16:13:00.000-08:00

It's been snowing and church was cancelled for today which gave me some free time to do some crafting.

I went to YOUTUBE looking for tutorials on making paper flowers and came across one where she uses brown paper grocery bags.

I will need to warn you about two things. First there are lots of pictures and some of the pictures are not the best quality but hopefully you will get the idea on how to make these.

Here are two finished flowers. They would be cute attached to a hairband or maybe glue a pin attachment to the back and wear it on a sweater. I also thought they would look cute on a heart shaped wreath for Valentine's Day. (I will need to make a bazillion more if I make a wreath, we'll see!)

1. Start off by cutting a grocery sack open and laying it flat.

2. Find three different round items to use as templates.

I used lids from some of my storage containers

3. The measurements I used were (below)...

4. Next I used some decorative scissors I had to cut out the circles so that the edges would be kind of ruffly.

Here is how it looks cut out.

5. I cut out a bunch but you will need 2 large circles, 2 medium circles and 1 small circle for each flower.

6. Next you want to wad up the circles and squish them to make them all wrinkly.

You want them to look like the one on the left.

7. Lay down a piece of wax paper as you will be stamping the circles with ink pads and then misting them with water.

8. I used a Chestnut brown ink pad.

9. You can see the inked circles on the left of the paint pan. I then took yellow and red craft paint and applied it randomly over the inked circles.

Here is what it looked like after applying the yellow paint.

And here is the red applied along with the yellow paintl

10. Next you will want to mist the paper circles with water and then squish and wrinkle the circles again. Let them sit for about 10-15 minutes so they start to dry out. Unwrinkle (spellcheck says that unwrinkle isn't a word but I think it works just fine for my description) them and start to shape them so they are kind of a shallow bowl shape.

11. Starting with the largest circles begin stacking them together while adding a small amount of glue in between the layers. Work the petals to make them stand up.

12. Glue in the center a rhinestone, sequin or a fancy button to finish it off.

(This photo is a little blurry, go back to the beginning of the post to see it better)

I REALLY AM AN ANIMAL LOVER

2012-01-11T22:11:00.000-08:00

Short of running over a squirrel or hitting a bird accidently I have never killed an animal. I grew up in a family that hunted and married a man who hunts also so I know and understand that there are those who don't mind killing animals for sport or for food. For me personally I don't think I could shoot a deer or a duck...

...BUT IF THE MALE CAT THAT HAS BEEN SPRAYING MY FRONT PORCH TO MARK HIS TERRITORY DOESN'T WANT TO DIE THEN HE BETTER FIND SOMEWHERE ELSE TO COURT HIS FELINE FRIENDS! GRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR!

Why oh why do people have cats and not get them fixed? Does anyone know of a solution to this problem?
The spraying that is, not the ignorant people who have never heard of spaying or neutering.

I NEED SOME HELP

2012-01-10T10:11:00.000-08:00

It has been brought to my attention that my page loads really slow. Does anyone else have that problem when viewing my blog? Now this is where the help comes in. How do I fix that problem. Some things are just beyond my ability to comprehend on my own, in other words, I am computer challenged.

Thanks to all who take the time to read my blog. It thrills me when someone actually takes the time to comment, especially if you are patient enough to read my post if it is loading slowly.

Valentine Projects

2012-01-09T13:44:00.000-08:00

My sister-in-law Melanie put together the supplies to make this cute Valentine craft. It's really hard to see in the photo but there is tons of glitter on each letter. They are hooked together with small hinges and embellished with some ribbon and some bling.

Below is a collage of a few Valentine crafts I made last year and the year before..

I haven't put the Valentine decorations out yet but that hasn't stopped me from starting to think about making a few cute things, thanks to Pinterest.

GIDDY FOR GLITTER AND OTHER CRAFTY STUFF!

2012-01-06T09:00:00.000-08:00

I don't know if anyone else gets excited about craft supplies but after shopping today, and finding some REALLY great sales, I am feeling slightly giddy.

First off, I didn't actually buy this glitter today but I did get it last week for 50% off at Michael's. YIPPEE!!!

Just look at the names;

Pesto

Pumpkin

Taffy

This is the kind of stuff that makes this crafter so happy. With colors like Sunflower, Ocean, Paradise and Bling think of the possibilities. Squeeeeeeeeel!

I also got a great deal on most of these stamps. My sister-in-law (aka, Craft Goddess) was cleaning out and getting rid of tons of craft supplies and I got almost all of these (I had a few of my own) for a very sweet price.

Below is a Black Friday purchase. I went to JoAnn's to buy it for 50% off but they were sold out. I went home, got on their web site and ordered it for the same price, Sweet! Now I must confess that I am NOT an organized person but this paper holder was just what I needed to organize all my scrapbook paper. I added the color names with vinyl lettering I cut with my Silhouette.

Oh ya, see that blue thing on top? That is a tracing projector, every crafter needs on of these. I needed to make a poster for a church activity so I downloaded a coloring book page from the Internet, used the projector to trace it onto a poster board and colored it in. It looks like I have some serious drawing skills. But I will never tell, shhhhhh! (It is the next photo down)

Lastly, I found this great turning table top organizer at Michael's for 50% off today. Oh my goodness, why didn't I get one of these sooner?

Now I must do some serious cleaning and reorganizing of my craft room.

That is a good January project, don't you think?

True? Helpful? Inspiring? Necessary? Kind?

2012-01-05T18:19:00.000-08:00

I found this via facebook and thought how appropriate for my personal challenge this year to stop and think before speaking, doing, judging, reading or watching anything.

This is proving to be an exercise in restraint...but in a good way.

What do you THINK?

2012-01-02T14:17:00.000-08:00

I have been inspired by a few blogging friends that have chosen a "word or phrase" of the year.

There have been some good ones shared and it got me pondering about what a good word for myself might be.

I am all too happy to leave 2011 behind, not because anything bad happened but because I now have a new year and a fresh start. I thought and thought and pondered and thought some more on what word would inspire me to be a better person and I think I have come up with a good one for me.

It is THINK.

I chose THINK as a good reminder word for me to stop and think about the things I say, the comments I make, the judgements and criticisms I jump to.

Then I got to thinking about other areas in my life that I could apply this technique to, such as thinking more deeply about Sunday School lessons, thinking about things through out the day that I need to give thanks for at the end of the day, thinking about trials that others might be going through and have more compassion for them.

Another area I need to stop and think about is how best to use my time and talents.

How to share those talents with others.

I also need to stop and think before making unnecessary purchases, I need to ask if it is a want or a need.

I need to think more positive thoughts throughout the day.

So for me, stopping to think more often about the things I do rather than just jumping in with both feet first, then maybe I can learn to do better in all areas of my life. It certainly couldn't hurt.

I THINK I like my new word!

PINTEREST INSPIRATION THIS WEEK

2011-12-30T13:18:00.000-08:00

Here are some products I came across this week on Pinterest that I thought I would share.

I would love to have these in my garage.

Click HERE for the complete instructions and materials list.

This orange fluff salad looks so refreshing. I must try this soon.

Click HERE for the link to the recipe.

I know I complained last week about people posting valentine's things before Christmas was even here but this isn't necessarily only for Valentine's day. I would love it hanging in my bedroom right now.

Click HERE for ordering information.

I have a new love in my life and it is Scarves. I am thinking I need to order one of these so I can keep them organized.

To order one of these go HERE for the link.

Please note: I was not compensated in any way for posting these products. I just found some really cool things I love and wanted to share with you links on how to find them.

I LOVE ME SOME PINTEREST!

ANOTHER ONE FOR THE HISTORY BOOKS

2011-12-26T12:27:00.000-08:00

Another Christmas has come and gone and as I reflect today on all the happenings with my family I am feeling completely and totally BLESSED.

From the goody baking to the shopping, wrapping, cleaning and cooking it has been a season of love and laughter. Of course we ate too much and spent too much but what price do you put on precious family memories?

One of the fun things we did was played some Minute 2 Win It games. I had several games geared toward kids (ages 3 to 10) that they really enjoyed. One in particular was a "straw and stars" game. You cut out small stars from card stock or scrapbook paper (I used a star punch that was about 1") and gave each contestant a straw. They had to suck a star to the bottom of the straw and transport it a few feet away into a bowl and collect as many as they could in one minute.

As you can see in the top left hand picture and the center picture that the adults participated in a "Kissmas Ball" relay race. The object was to transport the Christmas ornament across the room and drop it into a bowl using only your lips.

There was lots of treats and opening of presents. There was no bickering or fighting. It was a really wonderful day.

The moms of the two 15 month old babes were the ones that had the least fun because of keeping the little ones from being run over, hurt or lost (wandering into rooms that they could get into things that could hurt them like itty-bitty Lego pieces. I could just see one of them choking on something and having to take a trip to the hospital.)

I hope you all had a wonderful day too.

PINTEREST INSPIRATION THIS WEEK

2011-12-22T13:57:00.000-08:00

Here is what is inspiring me this week on Pinterest

1. Hot Fudge

2. Behold Blocks

3. Snicker Doodle Bread

4. Burlap Covered Box

5. Christmas Tree Card

Click on the above links to be inspired too.

Edit to add: No I didn't make any of these but I am feeling inspired to do so...after Christmas maybe. Either that or before Christmas next year. Ha Ha!

BAH HUMBUG MOMENT

2011-12-21T11:17:00.000-08:00

OK, so I am having a little grouchy moment here and it has nothing to do with Christmas.

It actually has to do with bloggers, pinterest people and facebook friends posting Valentine's stuff. Come on you over-achieving people let us get through one holiday before starting to shove the next one coming up down our throats. Seriously people,

THAT REALLY TICKS ME OFF!!!!!!!!!!

(I feel so much better getting that off my chest)

Church Christmas Dinner

2011-12-17T15:06:00.000-08:00

My daughter Natasha was in charge of decorating one of the tables for our ward Christmas dinner.

She borrowed my Santa hats to add to her decorations.

I think she did a great job.

She found the cute Santa hat chair covers and the clear glass plates at the dollar store. She had a friend cut some vinyl and applied it to the backs of the plates.

I tried to get all angles of the table but photographs just don't do justice. It's like trying to capture the beauty of a Christmas tree, it just doesn't compare to the real thing.

JOLLY HAPPY SANTA HATS

2011-12-15T10:39:00.000-08:00

I finally got around to making more Santa hats for my tree. I posted last year about my friend Christine (GO HERE FOR HER EASY TO FOLLOW TUTORIAL) making these for our bazaar and had full intentions to make a bunch more for my tree this year. Let's see, we still have 10 more days until Christmas so I would say I made them just in time.

I also spent a little time editing these photo's in Picnik. They have lots of free things you can do to photographs but they also have an upgrade you can get that gives you even more options.

I love the snow effect you can add in Picnik.

Below are the three original hats that Christine made.

Here is a picture from last year when I put the hats on the tree.

Linky Party at Whipper Berry.

Just click on the box above to check out all the other fun projects this week.

Also check out the Linky party over at Craft-O-Maniac's blog.

Christmas Goody Baking

2011-12-11T18:35:00.000-08:00

Spent the day yesterday with some of my favorite peeps in all the world doing our annual Christmas baking.

(L to R, grandaughter Addison, Me,daughter Natasha and daughter Maria)

We made chocolate chip cookie dough balls,

White chocolate peppermint cookies, and lots of other good stuff too.

Here is Addison getting a close peek at what goodies she is going to eat first.

Maria looks a little too eager to do some sampling.

Peppermint pinwheels were a first this year, they look so festive.

It wouldn't be Christmas without the Peanut Butter Kiss Cookies

Rolo cookies.

These are made by wrapping chocolate dough around a Rolo and the top dipped in chopped pecans then they are baked. TO. DIE. FOR!!!

So what are some of your favorite Christmas goodies?

IT'S NEVER TOO EARLY TO THINK ABOUT 2012 ELECTIONS

2011-12-09T13:24:00.000-08:00

(source)

I got this off of facebook and couldn't agree more!

DANG NABBIT!!!

2011-12-08T08:46:00.000-08:00

Shoot! I dropped my camera one too many times and I am sure it is done for.

It is a Cannon Power Shot.

Let's have a moment of silence please.

"........................................."

It is very similar to the silver camera above.

OK, now that I have mourned for awhile I have a question for you.

WHAT KIND OF CAMERA WOULD YOU RECOMMEND I REPLACE IT WITH?

My budget is $300 or less. What would be the best camera for the price?

BOYS DECORATING A TREE

2011-12-07T09:48:00.000-08:00

Yes, you read the title correctly. I let two of my grandsons decorate one of the Christmas trees. They had free reign to do as they pleased, all they had was a fake tree to put together and a box full of ornaments and decorations. It may not be decorated like I would have but the fun that they had was so worth it. Good job Matthew and Spencer.

DEAR SANTA.....

2011-11-28T17:46:00.000-08:00

I have been a VERY good girl this year and if you could possibly get this in my backyard that would be wonderful. You wouldn't even have to try and get this down the chimney {which I don't even have}. Pretty please?????

I love you sooooo much Santa,

Connie

NOW HOW DID SHE KNOW?

2011-11-27T16:17:00.000-08:00

OOPS! I have been caught. I don't know how the person who created this knew me so well.

THIS IS RIDICULOUS!!!

2011-11-26T14:16:00.000-08:00

Hubby and I got the Christmas stuff down from the attic. I thought he was NEVER going to stop handing down Rubbermaid's. There were 18 bins full of Christmas STUFF! That doesn't even include two artificial trees, a box full of small lighted fake fir trees and even more STUFF in my storage room that can't go into the attic.

I think I need an electrical charge attached to my behind and every time I am tempted to buy MORE STUFF it would send a "shocking" reminder that I don't need any more STUFF!!!!

WORDS OF ENCOURAGEMENT FOR TOUGH TIMES

2011-11-22T19:44:00.000-08:00

I CAN'T HELP MYSELF

2011-11-20T05:04:00.000-08:00

Pinterest went and did it to me again. I mean seriously, how can I ever keep up with all the adorable and fantastic ideas?

Here is a set of blocks inspired by something I saw on Pinterest.

My version:

Inspiration from Pinterest:

Source

Here are some cute snowmen that my daughter Natasha made from some she had found on pinterest.

Here are the inspiration snowmen.

Source

What did we do before blogs and pinterest?

I am also participating over at Creations by Kara.

PINTEREST INSPIRATION

2011-11-17T06:48:00.000-08:00

Man I LOVE Pinterest.

There are so many fabulous ideas floating around it makes a crafter go NUTS!

I have always loved this saying, I even installed it directly on the wall of my friend Jane's house. Go here to see how hers looks.

Here is the inspiration piece I got off of Pinterest via Etsy on Sweet Designs Boutique.

Here is my version.

My project consists of an old calendar holder, you know the ones everyone had a few years ago to hold all those adorable calendars? Well if you check at Goodwill they have those in all the time. The only thing I did was lightly sanded it and spray painted it black. I then glued down some pretty scrapbook paper and then applied vinyl lettering on top of it.

Oh Pinterest, what did I do before discovering you?

For more Pinterest inspiration there is a linky party going on over at 5 Minutes for Me.

GEORGIA PRALINES

2011-11-15T10:34:00.000-08:00

I made these GEORGIA PRALINES from a recipe I found on Pinterest

They turned out very well and were easy to make. I may be adding these to my Christmas baking.

The only thing I would caution on is that they are EXTREMELY sweet and rich.

For the recipe go to TASTY KITCHEN.

TREE INSPIRATION FROM PINTEREST

2011-11-13T08:34:00.000-08:00

Oh how I love the inspiration to be found on Pinterest.

Here is my version of a Christmas tree that I found there.

THIS IS THE INSPIRATION I GOT OFF PINTEREST. IT IS FOUND HERE.

HEARTY AND DELICOUS SOUP FOR A COLD WINTER EVENING

2011-11-12T05:45:00.000-08:00

Do you have a family favorite soup, stew or chowder that you make and especially look forward to fall and winter so you can make it?

I do and it is called Vegetable Chowder.

It is funny when I tell people that it is a vegetable chowder, you should see the looks of doubt and sometimes disgust on their faces...that is until they taste it. I have never had anyone taste it that didn't like it (well except for a few picky grandchildren).

In a large pot you cook the vegetables in chicken stock.

While the veggies are cooking you melt the butter in a medium to large sauce pan then add the flour to make a roux.

After the butter and flour have cooked about 5 minutes over medium heat you add 4 cups milk.

You bring this mixture to a boil over med/high heat, stirring constantly until it thickens.

You then pour the milk/butter/flour mixture into the simmering vegetables and bring to a boil.

Stir to mix well and put heat to med/low.

You then add cubed ham...

followed by shredded cheddar cheese.

Stir just until the cheese is melted and serve. Recipe is posted at the bottom.

Serve with some nice hot rolls out of the oven and you have a meal that will comfort you for hours.

VEGETABLE CHOWDER

3 CUPS POTATOES, CUBED

2 1/2 CUPS FINELY CHOPPED BROCCOLI

1 CUP CHOPPED ONION

1 CUP CARROTS FINELY CHOPPED OR SHREDDED

2 STALKS CELERY, FONELY CHOPPED

4 CHICKEN BOUILLON CUBES

5 CUPS WATER

3/4 CUP BUTTER

3/4 CUP FLOUR

4 CUPS MILK

1-2 CUPS CUBED HAM

1 CUP SHREDDED CHEDDAR CHEESE

Now here is proof that I don't spend ALL my time on Pinterest. Although I did make some excellent chocolate chip cookies with a SECRET ingredient that I will be posting soon that I found on Pinterest.

THIS WEEKS PINTEREST PICKS

2011-11-11T08:31:00.000-08:00

This is what caught my attention on Pinterest this week.

Love this idea for an old shutter. Wouldn't it be perfect for the bathroom? Or maybe in the bedroom? You can find a great tutorial on how to make this on

My Repurposed Life.

This is a must for me to make for Thanksgiving.

Recipe is found here.

Love, Love, Love this pillow idea.

Tutorial found The Gunny Sack blog.

Now all I need is to set aside some time to make these. I really need to budget my Pinterest looking time.

WHAT HAS ME INSPIRED FROM PINTEREST

2011-11-05T09:02:00.000-07:00

OK, I need to explain why there hasn't been much posting going on with my blog.

IT'S CALLED PINTEREST!!!

I have been spending lots of time cruising and browsing around on Pinterest and noticed that there are starting to be more and more Christmas ideas out there.

Here are a few really cute ideas that have inspired my crafting bug.

I REALLY WANT TO MAKE THESE.

If you would like to know more about any of these pictures I have listed their sources for your convience.

1. LEARNING TO BE ME

2. SWEETOPIA

3. YOUR NEST DESIGN

4. CHRISTINE'S FAVORITE THINGS

5. DANA CAROL DESIGNS ON ETSY

6. SARA AND SOFFIE BLOG (invited readers only)

Or you can go to my Pinterest here.

WORDLESS WEDNESDAY

2011-11-02T16:06:00.000-07:00

MY FUNNY BONE GOT TICKLED!

2011-10-25T13:31:00.000-07:00

This just made me giggle!!!!!

WELL, ISN'T IT ALL ABOUT THE SHOES ANYWAY?

2011-10-23T04:59:00.000-07:00

Ever since I saw the cutest ever witches shoes on the Crafty Sister's blog I just knew I HAD to make some.

Here is the original inspiration

Here is my version below.

So that is how I spent my rainy Saturday afternoon, making me some cutsie shoes too. Thanks Nicole and Candace, your projects always ROCK!!!

WRAP UP ON FALL PRODUCE AND CANNING

2011-10-22T05:24:00.000-07:00

Back at the beginning in July I took on the task of coordinating and ordering produce from the Yakima valley in Washington to be delivered to my house and picked up by those who ordered for the purpose of canning, dehydrating or just eating fresh.

We began with cherries and each week or so thereafter we would offer different produce as it became available. Next we had apricots, green beans, corn, tomatoes, onions, pears, peaches and ended with apples a couple of weeks ago. Whew! When we added up the pounds of produce that was delivered over the course of about three months it came in at just over

9,000 lbs.

For those not familiar with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints let me explain why I would even take on this task.

We are counseled by our church leaders to live providently, be self-reliant and to be prepared in all things. One of those areas of preparedness is having extra food and other supplies on hand in the event of an emergency, job loss, illness, earthquake or any other unforeseen event.

Sooooo long story, short, I voluntarily helped lots of people help themselves.

Here are some of the things I was able to get put up for my food storage.

I also froze some corn that I didn't get pictures of.

Please don't think I am posting any of this to brag or pat myself on the back. Hopefully others will be inspired to do something to be better prepared for those unexpected twists and turns life throws at us sometimes.

INTERESTING COMPARISON

2011-10-21T16:20:00.000-07:00

If I ran my household budget like the U.S. Government ran theirs I certainly wouldn't wonder why I was in trouble! DUH!!!

PROBLEMS WITH COMMENTING

2011-10-21T09:58:00.000-07:00

Dear blogging friends,
There are several blogs I follow and comment on a regular basis but I have become frustrated with the comments section of some of your blogs. Anyone that has the "select profile" drop down box, where you choose from a list of ways to identify yourself will NOT let me use my my usual google account button. I have composed so many comments only to have them go blank when I try to enter them. On some blogs it will let me leave an anonymous comment, but not everyone's will let me even do that.

I am especially concerned that some blogs I have commented consistently on might think I don't follow them anymore. Two that come to mind are Dawn at Momza's and Saimi at My Dog Archie.

If anyone has a solution I would love to hear about it.

Thanks,
Connie

THE VERY LAST OF SUMMER INTO FALL

2011-10-20T11:51:00.000-07:00

This past weekend we were able to get away for one last little bit before winter sets in.

It was beautiful and sunny and oh so peaceful.

I never get tired of coming to this secluded camping spot.

The beautiful little pond for fishing.

Yes there are still a few trout swimming around. I am sure they are feeling the seasons changing too.

Have you ever seen moss so thick on the side of a tree that ferns are able to grow there?

It pretty much confirms that we get our share of rain here in the Pacific Northwest.

I love the bursts of color the trees and foliage display.

We even were able to find a frog. We spent a week here last August where two of our grandsons, Spencer and Landon had so much fun catching frogs. I posted about them here.

(It looks like my hubby could use some hand lotion.)

Here the poor little thing is trying to make it's escape.

There were also dragonflies galore. They seemed a little dazed but would stop and get warmed up by the sun and then take off again.

A unique looking bee landed on the outside of the truck window. It was a pale yellow color with huge bulging eyes.

One of the many waterfalls that we came across while driving on old logging roads in the mountains.

Nature's artwork

More of the changing foliage

This is a shot of Mt. St. Helen's from the northeast side.

You can see the crater on the top right hand side.

Not too far from the place where I took the photo of Mt. St. Helen's I got this shot of Mt. Rainier.

We really do live in a very beautiful place, I feel so blessed.

I LOVE A GOOD BARGAIN

2011-10-20T06:16:00.000-07:00

Have you heard of Miche purses?

Well if you haven't then let me explain. There is an in-home party company that sells purses.

I don't know a lot about the background of the company but I did attend a party a couple of years ago and bought a basic black base. I then bought three different interchangeable shells for the purse and have changed them out occasionally. They are magnetized and just slip onto the outside of the purse when you want to change one out.

I had the opportunity to buy three more shells at dirt cheap prices because my daughters friend, who used to sell the Miche purses has decided to get rid of all of the smaller shells. She is going with an even bigger purse from Miche and no longer needed all the small ones.

WhooHoo for me. I now have six different looks for the same purse.

I hate to play favorites but do you see the one here on the bottom right? She is my FAVE!!!

As you can tell it doesn't take much to make me happy!

FELT WREATH TUTORIAL

2011-10-08T05:35:00.000-07:00

This is a very quick and easy project. Just gather your materials together, pop in a good movie and make this wreath in about 45 minutes, start to finish.

List of materials:

2 pieces each, 9"x12" felt in 5-6 different colors

Straight pins

9" Styrofoam ring

Something approximately 2.5" round to use as a template

(I used a seasoning salt container)

scissors

1. Trace circles onto felt and cut out. These don't have to be perfectly round as you can see by mine.

I cut approximately 20-24 circles of each color.

2. This is what I used as my circle template.

3. This is the only shot I got of the wreath form which is what the back looks like. You could wrap the form with ribbon before putting the felt pieces on if you want a more finished look.

4. Fold the circle in half, kind of like a taco shell.

5. Fold over again.

6. Push straight pin in close to the bottom point. (Please excuse the black looking fingers, I was painting earlier.)

7. Push into foam. After the felt is in kind of fluff open to help hide the pin.

8. Here is the finished wreath that Randy won.

WINNER WINNER, BUYS ME DINNER! teehee!

2011-10-06T22:42:00.000-07:00

I never did figure out what the whole "Winner, Winner, Chicken Dinner" saying was about so I made up my own title, and I win too. The winner has to buy me dinner. (not really)

ANYWHOOZIT!

The winner of the felt wreath is....

RANDY

Thanks so much for all the nice words and comments on this project. I will be posting a tutorial tomorrow on how easy this project was to make.

FELT WREATH

2011-10-03T11:45:00.000-07:00

I was able to squeeze out a few minutes this weekend to make this fall felt wreath.

It took 18 small circles of 6 different colors of felt. I just pinched the circles in the middle and pushed a straight pin into it then into a Styrofoam wreath. In all it only took about 45 minutes to complete and that includes tracing the circles ( I used a small bottle of mustard as my template), cutting them out, and pushing the felt into the wreath.

Now I just need to decide where I want to place it, on a shelf behind fall decor, under a pumpkin on a pedestal or on a peg on the shelf in my living room.

Any suggestions or preferences?

Oh ya, I would also like to give one of these away to someone.

Literally all you have to do is leave a comment and tell me where you would put this cute little wreath if you won.

I will randomly pick a name in a couple of days.

I am participating in the Under $10 and Under 1 hour linky party at 320 Sycamore blog.

MILK CAN PROJECT FINISHED

2011-09-30T06:09:00.000-07:00

I posted recently about a few projects I needed to tackle and one of them was this milk can I picked up for $1.98 from all places, the grocery store.

With some vinyl lettering and some fall foliage it is now this:

I know you aren't supposed to use flash when photographing indoors but no matter what I did to add more light it just glared off the milk can. Hmmm, maybe if I am super-duper good between now and Christmas ~~dear hubby~~ Santa might bring me a new camera then I won't have to deal with mediocre pictures.

INSPIRED BY POPPIES AT PLAY

2011-09-29T08:22:00.000-07:00

I was recently inspired by Andy over at Poppies At Play when she posted her Halloween blocks. She offers a download so that you can make a set like hers, which is pretty darn cute. I had some blocks of wood in different sizes than her download would fit on so I just used what I had on hand for my own version.

Here is Andy's original set:

Here is my version:

I may still download her printable and make a set like hers. I just love it when someone creates such cuteness that I can then ~~copy~~ be inspired by.

MORE ABOUT THE COFFEE CAKE

2011-09-28T09:56:00.000-07:00

There is a funny thing about coffee cake that I wanted to share. You see I am a Latter Day Saint (Mormon) and we don't drink coffee. For the longest time I would pass over any coffee cake recipes I came across thinking they must have coffee in them. Then I got wise and actually read a recipe through and saw there was no mention of 'coffee' anywhere in it. Duh!!!! Coffee cake is called that because I guess it is good to drink coffee with it. Just like some people drink milk with cookies...I have such a simple mind, it is very scary!

SWEDISH COFFEE CAKE

2011-09-27T13:45:00.000-07:00

My friend Shawn shared this recipe with me over a year ago and I just go around to making it.

Why did I wait so long?

It is delish!

Ingredients for cake

You first cut in the butter with the flour and sugar. Next come the wet ingredients. Be sure not to over mix.

Reserve one cup of flour, sugar, and butter mixture.

You add some more goodies to the reserved mixture to make a crunchy topping.

Sprinkle reserved mixture over cake before baking

It was smelling awesome while baking

OH YA, IT WAS VERY TASTY.

HERE IS THE RECIPE

{ 2 c. sugar

{ 1 cup butter
{ 3 c. flour

Mix with pastry cutter until crumbly.

Take out 1 cup of this mixture, set aside.

In remaining mixture add:

2 eggs

3 tsp baking powder

1 can evaporated milk

1 tsp vanilla

1/2 tsp almond extract

Mix with spoon thoroughly, but don't over mix.

Pour into greased 9" x 13" pan.

Add and mix 1 tsp cinnamon and 1/4 tsp almond extract to the reserved 1 cup of mixture. NOTE: I added 1/2 cup chopped almonds to this mixture, which is optional. Sprinkle evenly on top of batter in pan.

Bake at 325 degrees for 60 minutes, check it at 45 minutes and every five minutes after to check for doneness.

Icing: Heat 2 Tbsp butter, 1/4 tsp almond extract, about 1/4 cup milk. Add powdered sugar to make medium to thin icing.

Drizzle over warm (not hot) cake.

THE BIRTHDAY BOY

2011-09-26T06:12:00.000-07:00

It was just a year ago that two new little ones were added to our family. Dawson turned a year old on Sept. 18 and just three days later William followed.

William is such a good baby. Very easy going with the cutest little face, you just want to squeeze those cheeks of his. He is also the only grandchild to get the red hair that he and grandpa Jim share.

We couldn't have asked for anything better than to have him as part of our family.

We love you sweet William!

MAKEOVER PROJECTS

2011-09-22T10:29:00.000-07:00

It seems that I have been doing more collecting of items for makeovers than actually doing makeovers.

This is where you come in. I figured that if I posted some of my "projects" targeted for makeovers then I would actually be accountable to someone. So if you follow me at all and you don't see something posted soon involving something in these pictures then you have the right to CHEW ME OUT!

I picked up this cute watering can at the grocery store of all places in their clearance section for...are you ready for this? $1.98 (dust and all) WooHoo!

These flowers may or may not be part of what I am doing with the milk can. Haven't quite decided yet.

I have had these three wooden plates for a year or two. I had great intentions when I bought them to do something fabulous with them. Well you can see how far I have gotten. By the way, they were .50 each at a yard sale.

Spray paint, scrap book paper are in this items future.

I picked up this board at Goodwill a couple of months ago for $3.99.

Not sure what I will do with it. Any suggestions???? Feel free to let your ideas flow.

And finally this washboard that has sat in my garage for a couple of years.

What would you do with it?

Paint it?

Leave it as is?

Paint part of it?

Add vinyl?

I am still not sure but I have some ideas.

IT'S BACK...TELL IT LIKE IT IS TUESDAY!

2011-09-20T05:16:00.000-07:00

I haven't done this little post in awhile so I thought this would be a good time to open it up for anyone and everyone to VENT A LITTLE STEAM.

THIS IS HOW IT WORKS:

If something is bothering you and you just can't vent to anyone you know then this is where you can let it all go. You can post anonymously if you like. Feel free to change names to protect the innocent. Sometimes just putting something into words helps, just leave it here and move on.

MISS AWESOME DAWSON

2011-09-19T05:21:00.000-07:00

Guess Who Just Turned a Year Old!

Miss Awsome Dawson.

I can't believe a whole year has come and gone.

This sweet little blue-eyed baby is one little pistol. She is unafraid of anything. She walks, she is starting to talk, she can get from one room to the next in a split second and is curious about EVERYTHING. No cupboard or drawer has gone unchallenged. No siree.

But we love her to pieces and are so blessed to have her as part of our family.

I WONDER WHY...

2011-09-18T14:41:00.000-07:00

I don't know where these questions originated from but when I got them in an email I knew I needed to blog about it and add some appropriate pictures.

Only in America .......do drugstores make the sick walk all the way to the back of the store to get their prescriptions while healthy people can buy cigarettes at the front.

Only in America .....do people order double cheeseburgers, large fries, and a diet coke.

Only in America .....do banks leave vault doors open and then chain the pens to the counters.

Only in America .......do we leave cars worth thousands of dollars in the driveway and put our useless junk in the garage.

Only in America ......do we buy hot dogs in packages of ten and buns in packages of eight.

Only in America .....do they have drive-up ATM machines with Braille lettering.

Why can't women put on mascara with their mouth closed?

Why don't you ever see the headline 'Psychic Wins Lottery'?

Why is 'abbreviated' such a long word?

Why is it that doctors call what they do 'practice'?

Why is lemon juice made with artificial flavor, and dish washing liquid made with real lemons?

Why is the man who invests all your money called a broker?

Why is the time of day with the slowest traffic called rush hour?

Why isn't there mouse-flavored cat food?

Why didn't Noah swat those two mosquitoes?

Why do they sterilize the needle for lethal injections?

You know that indestructible black box that is used on airplanes? Why don't they make the whole plane out of that stuff?!

Why are they called apartments when they are all stuck together?

If flying is so safe,why do they call the airport the terminal?

THERE NOW, DOESN'T THAT MAKE YOU PONDER?

HOME PERSONALIZATION, JANE'S WAY!

2011-09-14T06:13:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago I had the opportunity to do some vinyl lettering for my friend JANE. She was hosting her daughters wedding reception and wanted to jazz up her home, (although her home was gorgeous before we began). Jane has a great eye for picking up garage sale items and has placed them throughout her home. That could be a post all by itself. (hint, hint Jane)

This cute saying is in the bedroom sometimes occupied by sons and grandsons.

This is the saying above the bed in the upstairs guest room.

I wish my camera took better pictures, the lettering really turned out far better than the camera can capture.

Loved this quote she put in her library.

A very simple saying in her guest bath.

Here is a saying she found that is in her master bathroom. I think it says something about bubbles in the bath.

Here is the adorable saying she chose for the bedroom that is reserved for her daughters and granddaughters.

I am so bummed about how this picture turned out. It just doesn't even give justice to how perfect this saying is for her living room.

FOR MORE PHOTO'S AND FROM JANE'S PERSPECTIVE YOU CAN CHECK OUT HER VERSION OF THE VINYL LETTERING. I AM CONFIDENT SHE WILL HAVE YOU IN STITCHES AS SHE DESCRIBES HER ADVENTURES IN TRYING TO INSTALL THE LETTERING BY HERSELF BEFORE SHE CALLED AND BEGGED FOR MERCY AND ASKED FOR SOME HELP.

Edit to add:

Here is one more from Jane's house. It is actually in a long hallway so in order to get a decent photo I had to get at a weird angle to fit it all in. I should have also take a picture standing back and looking down the hall.

NEW FALL PROJECT

2011-09-13T12:51:00.000-07:00

I kind of needed something "new" to go with my other fall decor.

Here are some of my favorite things about fall that I put in a frame. I used a piece of scrap booking paper for the back ground.

CHARGER PLATE REQUEST

2011-09-12T08:58:00.000-07:00

I recently had bloggie buddy SAIMI ask for a reminder about some charger plates I made last year for my bazaar.

I posted all four that I made so that she could see several versions of what I put on the charger plates. I got the chargers at Walmart last year but am not sure if they have them this year. Any pretty plate will work but the charger plates are larger than the standard dinner plate.

If you would like to make one of these and don't have access to a vinyl cutter just shoot me an email (connie_hall57@yahoo.com) and I will make some for you. The cost is $3 each plus $1.25 shipping.

A POST WORTH REPEATING

2011-09-11T05:25:00.000-07:00

I made these fall topiary's two years ago and thought I would post about them again. After all, it's that time of year again. You know, when the leaves begin to change and the gardens are giving one last hurrah for the harvest.

I found these two garden pots at Goodwill and knew that they had potential, I just wasn't sure exactly what I would do with them. Out came the black spray paint.

After I sprayed the pots I stared gathering some fall decorations hoping that something would spark my creativity.

I turned the pots upside down, the pumpkin seemed to fit better that way.

I just used a knife to cut away the stem so the next pumpkin would sit on top nicely.

I printed up some vinyl lettering to go on the pumpkins.

The vinyl lettering actually stuck well.

Here they began to take shape.

This is what the final product turned out to be.

Note: I got the styrofoam pumpkins at Michael's but I have seen them many other places since then.

MMMM!!! PEACH PIE

2011-09-05T09:28:00.000-07:00

Yesterday afternoon I made a peach pie.

Just as it was ready to come out of the oven our son, daughter-in-law and grandson walked through the door.

Perfect timing!

After it cooled for about 15 minutes we dished each of us up a piece and plopped some

vanilla ice cream on top.

Grandson William was on my lap and slurped up all the ice cream from the top but wasn't too fond of the pie. Some day he will appreciate homemade peach pie.

Not very long after consuming said pie I found these two very content individuals sleeping it off.

Too much of a good thing is WONDERFUL!

Guess what I had for breakfast this morning?

More sweet, ooey gooey peach pie!

What a way to start the week.

I've Been Playing Around

2011-09-02T08:12:00.000-07:00

With my Silhouette, that is. They have such cute images. Here I used five different Halloween images and put together this fun Halloween picture.

You do know that Halloween will be here before we know it 'cause summer just flew by and it is September already. I need to get my fall decorations out but can't quite let go of summer yet. So for now I will settle for this little reminder.

SUMMERTIME CANVAS MAKEOVER

2011-09-01T07:02:00.000-07:00

I have had a project bookmarked for quite some time that I wanted to do. I also had a canvas I made for summertime that I was never very happy with so I peeled off the vinyl lettering and repurposed the canvas in to something new.

Here is the inspiration piece from
V and Co.

Here is the summertime canvas BEFORE...

And here is what I ended up with.

First I peeled off the old lettering then I mixed some beige paint with some dark brown paint to give it a textured look.

I cut out different foilage and flowers from some vinyl on my Silhouette

And began placing the vinyl on the canvas until I was happy with it.

This is what I ended up with but wasn't quite in love with it.

So I added this cute saying. I have a friend who has been under the weather for awhile, I thought maybe she would like to have it. Shhhhhh, don't tell her.

GRANDPA'S CAMPOUT 2011

2011-08-28T05:35:00.000-07:00

WELL, THERE IS ANOTHER ONE FOR THE HISTORY BOOKS.

THE CAMPOUT WAS A SUCCESS.

EVERYONE WENT HOME WITH TREATS AND TREASURES FROM THE TREASURE HUNT AND HOPEFULLY SOME FUN MEMORIES.

We did a craft.

Played some tag.

And more tag. Hmmmm, grandpa must have been tagged, he didn't move at all from the previous picture.

Poor Spencer couldn't figure out which way to go to catch his cousins. Darn tree anyway!

First clue on the treasure hunt.

It was getting dark so they needed to hurry.

It looks like Matthew just figured out the clue, he has that "ah-ha" look on his face.

Logan thought there might be some treasure on top of the trailer.

Finally, the treasure was found.

We dumped the whole treasure basket in the middle of the floor so they could take turns choosing from their prizes.

Posing and being silly.

It was a thumbs-up all around for the camp out.

Here is the mass of sleeping bags after a good nights sleep.

This is grandpa's hunting tent that they got to sleep in.

The unanimously chosen breakfast, doughnuts and hot cocoa.

Thank goodness we have a wonderful bakery close by.

Oh ya, on top of the camp out two of the moms stayed up until 3a.m. canning tomatoes and green beans.

Then today we all worked together to can more green beans and some peaches.

All in all we canned:

103 pints of green beans

27 quarts of tomatoes

and

53 quarts of peaches.

All I can say is,

I AM EXHAUSTED!!!

TONIGHT'S THE NIGHT

2011-08-26T17:21:00.000-07:00

The grandkids are coming over for their annual "Grandpa's Campout".

The tent is up

The taco's are being prepared

The treasure hunt is in place

T-shirts are finished

Prizes are ready

Games are ready to be played

We will even be doing a craft (imagine that!)

I will be back later with pictures.

RANDOM POST ABOUT PLANTS

2011-08-25T10:02:00.000-07:00

I am just posting some random photo's of pictures I took while camping and then a few of what's growing in my back yard.

This was a huge three leaf clover that caught my eye.

I thought this tree was quite interesting. It is growing right out of an old log.

Lowland huckleberries. The huckleberries in the higher mountains are a bluish/purple color.

Loved these three little trees.

Here is a plant that refuses to die. I am not sure what it is but it is taller than I am. It was in this little corner when we began our addition. It got stepped on and didn't get watered for months but yet it still comes back every year.

My first tomatoes of the season. I didn't even get these planted until around the first of July.

And of course the zucchini (sp?) is huge. I just turn my back and I swear it grows 3 inches.

My one success this year with roses.

And lastly my impatiens basket finally took off.

I hope all of your plantings are doing well wherever you are.

PEACHES APLENTY

2011-08-23T05:27:00.000-07:00

It looks like the peach order has outdone the cherry order. I currently have 1650 pounds of peaches being delivered to my house Thursday night.

I am just glad I don't have to can them all. Whew! That would be the 'pits'. Haaahaaaahaaa, get it? The pits?

PEACE, TRANQUILITY AND RELAXATION

2011-08-22T05:42:00.000-07:00

We just got back from twelve days of heaven. We camped with kids and grandchildren in one of the most peaceful places around. There were campfires and s'mores, fish caught, frogs captured, swimming in an icy cold river, hikes and bike rides and playing card games and reading books. There was no cell phone service, very limited internet service but we did have our satellite dish so we could watch some television, although we didn't watch much of it.

It was kind of sad to have to come back to reality.

Here are a couple of photo collages of some of the fun we had.

CATCHING FROGS

2011-08-19T19:47:00.000-07:00

How do you keep a two boys three and five years old occupied on a camping trip?

You go frog hunting, that's what you do.

The hardest part is making sure they don't fall in the lake.

I think Grandpa had as much fun as the boys did.

SUMMERTIME FUN

2011-08-16T09:28:00.000-07:00

We are spending some more time at our secret camping spot. Some of our kids and grandchildren joined us this time.

This is Tower Rock.

There were a few brave souls that decided to hike to the top of Tower Rock.

Little Miss Dawson was one of them to take the hike, although she got to be in the backpack.

Duncan also went along on the trip to the top of the rock.

This is the view from the top.

Hubby Jim, son Dustin, grandsons Matthew and Spencer and son-in-law Jason were mighty brave to pose in this photo. It's a little too close to the edge. Oh the things they do when mom and grandma aren't around.

My daughter Tasha and I stayed in camp and were able to see the mighty hikers through a spotting scope from camp.

Here is the owner of the campground patiently teaching the boys how to cast their poles.

Spencer caught the biggest fish of the day but was too chicken to hold it for a picture.

Once the fish was cleaned and strung up on a stick he was brave enough to hold it.

More photo's to come, we are headed back for five more days.

I THINK WE HAVE "WRENTERS"

2011-08-06T06:45:00.000-07:00

As I was sitting at the computer this morning I noticed a little birdie checking out the bird house perched on the front porch railing.

(Please excuse the fuzzy pictures, I took the picture through the screen.)

The next time I looked out the whole family had come to check out the house.

...they were having a grand time.

We actually have had some barn swallows nest in this little house the last few years. As soon as the babies are able to fly we never see them again until the next spring.

UNIQUE BLOOM, UGLY PLANT

2011-08-05T10:46:00.000-07:00

I love the blooms on this plant...

So big and showy,

but this is the whole plant...not lovin' it so much.

The bottom looks like this most of the time

UGLY AND SPIKY!

Does anyone know the name of it?

I just wish the flowers from it lasted longer.

TELL IT LIKE IT IS TUESDAY

2011-08-02T08:53:00.000-07:00

After posting yesterday about venting I have decided to do the whole venting post once a month instead of weekly.

Thanks to everyone who shared their thoughts on the subject.
I think Lori summed it up very well, she said:

Venting to someone who can give you perspective and keep you in check is a very healthy way to deal with problems. If you can vent....get it all out and leave it forever...that too is healthy. But if your venting causes you to obsess about the problem...then it becomes unhealthy. I am lucky enough to have several people that I can vent to that help me talk through a situation and then either solve it or leave it by the side of the road.

So here it is, a place to get something off your chest; to leave it 'BY THE SIDE OF THE ROAD', as Lori says.

TO VENT OR NOT TO VENT?

2011-08-01T13:40:00.000-07:00

I WAS WATCHING "THE TALK" (love that show, it is much better than The View )AND THEY POSED THE QUESTION,

"IS IT HEALTHY TO VENT OR IS IT COUNTER-PRODUCTIVE?

In the past I have had a Tuesday feature called "Tell It Like It Is" where I offered the opportunity for anyone who felt the need to vent about something to just get it off their chest and leave it in the comment section. I haven't done that in awhile and was wondering if it is something I should offer again.

So what is your opinion on venting? Is it helpful for you to vent to someone to get something off your mind or do you think it just feeds the fire? I would love to hear your take on this subject.

JUST JAMMIN'

2011-07-28T15:47:00.000-07:00

Today I made some of my favorite jam EVER!

It is apricot/pineapple and it is DeLiCioUs!

First you take about 3.5 pounds of fresh apricots. You want them to be very ripe, soft to the touch. Almost too soft to eat is best. All you do is wash them (no peeling involved), cut them open, remove the pit and cut into small pieces and put in a food chopper or food processor. Chop until somewhat smooth but still with a few pulpy pieces.

Measure out 3 cups of pulp and put in a large pot.

Add one package MCP pectin to fruit, stirring to dissolve.

Add 1/2 cup fresh squeezed lemon juice, about 4 lemons.

(I already threw the lemons into the compost pile so I had to get my bottle of lemon juice out of the fridge for a picture.)

Stir in one 20 oz. can of crushed pineapple in it's own juice, undrained into apricot pulp.

I didn't have any crushed pineapple so I just poured the pineapple chunks into the food processor to crush.

Bring this mixture to a rolling boil over high heat.

Add 1/4 tsp. butter to fruit to help prevent too much foaming while the jam cooks.

Add eight cups of pre-measured sugar to cooking fruit and return to a boil, stirring constantly.

Once the jam is back to a full rolling boil, one that cannot be stirred down, start timing for four minutes.

Stir constantly.

Once jam is removed from the heat pour immediately into sterilized canning jars. Place on lids and caps and put in deep canning kettle, one with a rack so jars are not sitting directly on the bottom of the pan. Cover completely with water, with at least 1-2 inches above the jar.

Cover kettle with lid and bring water to a boil, process for ten minutes

Remove filled jars to the counter covered with a kitchen towel to cool.

Delicious on homemade bread or waffles and pancakes.

Oh ya, there is a real messy part to canning. The stove around the burner gets nasty looking. I have found a great product that removes the ugly mess called Mr. Muscle. You spray it on, leave for about ten minutes then wipe clean.

CH, CH, CH, CHERRIES, OH MY

2011-07-22T12:06:00.000-07:00

So when I said I had a thousand pound of cherries being delivered I had no picture in my head what a thousand pound of cherries looked like.

It wasn't nearly as bad as I thought. It turned out to be fifty boxes of 20#'s in each one.

The whole reason I had that many cherries delivered is because I am currently the Provident Living/Self Reliance coordinator on my ward (church congregation). That means that I help others to become more self-reliant through learning to spend money wisely. I find ways to help them get food supplies stocked up so that when times get tough such as economic downturns, emergencies, job losses or disasters they will be better able to care for their own needs rather than depending on others.

I am always on the look out for good buys on food for canning.

Lucky for us we have a wonderful man in our church that owns a business in an area (and is willing to haul back produce) where there are lots of farms and orchards that are willing to sell produce to him at exceptional prices if we meet the five-hundred pound minimum. We doubled our amount on the cherries, which really pleased the farmer.

Here is "fine" man (his name is Jim Fine) that has so generously offered to transport the produce for us.

(He is the one in the white t-shirt and the farmer is on the right.)

Here is a bowl of the Bing cherries. They were so delicious and juicy.

He also brought back these sacks of Walla Walla sweet onions too. At .28 per pound they are a steal.

If you live anywhere near me and are interested in getting some onions please let me know and we will work something out to get them to you.

Here I am waiting for the first people to come and pick up their cherries. Please ignore all of the junk in the back ground, it's just garage junk that really needs organized.

Next week we will be ordering apricots. Here are some samples the farmer sent so people could see how wonderful they are.

They are nice and big, almost as big as a peach.

FUN WITH THE BOYS

2011-07-20T12:52:00.000-07:00

I've got a couple of grandsons here staying with us for a few days.

Logan and Landon had a blast building a fort using the lawn chairs and some blankets.

They decided that some fine dining was in order and decided to eat their lunch in there.

Nothing like hanging out with your brother in your own hideout.

Here they are rockin' out to 'We Will Rock You'.

Here are a couple of pictures I found that were taken when I wasn't looking.

Peek-a-boo, I see you!

Tomorrow I am having 1,000 pounds of cherries delivered to my house. I think I will put them both to work helping me put them in 5 pound bags for people to pick up.

Stay tuned for cherry stories and pictures.

I AM TRULY SPOILED

2011-07-19T12:18:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Amy over at Keepn' The Sunny Side I am the new proud owner of a Kindle cover.

Didn't she do a wonderful job?

I have been wanting a cover for awhile now and guess what?

She sewed one for lil' old me.

I love the fabric,

the button for the closure,

and the cute ruffle.

Thank you Amy, you are just too sweet.

FOUR DAY GETAWAY TO PEACE AND TRANQUILLITY

2011-07-18T14:04:00.000-07:00

Relax

Rejuvinate

Peaceful

Nature

Good Friends

Quiet

No Hustle and Bustle

Spending time far away from everyday life can do so much for the soul.

We have a favorite little camping spot that offers you a step back in time to sit back an enjoy the silence and tranquillity of the peaceful outdoors. It is nestled in the Cascade Mountains in Washington and is only a two hour drive from our house. You just can't find a place more peaceful to unwind.

I hesitate to publish the name because I kind of feel like I don't want lots of people knowing about it.

Is that selfish of me?

I will tell you the name of this rock, it is called Tower Rock and you can see it from the campground.

They have the cutest little pond that they stock with trout. They provide fishing poles and bait so anyone can fish for just a mere $4.95 per pound for the fish you catch.

Below is our friend Jim enjoying himself fishing.

See how rustic and adorable this place is?

It kind of reminds me of what camping was like about fifty years ago, except now we have the luxury of recreational vehicles to camp in instead of tents.

Here is a view of our camp site.

This is where our friends Jim and Debbie camped.

One of the ways we like to pass the time is playing cribbage.

Here is Debbie showing off her catch of the day.

It was such a nice little getaway. None of us wanted to come home. I am sure I could have stayed another week and not been ready to come home either.

JULY IS IN FULL BLOOM

2011-07-13T08:08:00.000-07:00

When I was first married we lived in a small two bedroom rental house that sat right next to the owners farmhouse. I remember our landlady going around in the summer taking pictures of her flower gardens and remember thinking, "What is the big deal about her flowers?" Fast forward thirty something years later and I am out in my yard...you guessed it, photographing my flowers.

I have to marvel a God's work when it comes to flowers and plants. I plant, fertilize and water the flowers and mother nature does all the work. It is amazing.

Here is a begonia that sits on my front porch. Such a pretty color, don't you think?

This is an Asiatic lily (I think) with lots of little droplets of water. We got a little rain today and I love how they are so delicately place on the petals. Mother nature is a creative artist.

Another begonia that is on the front porch. It is such a cheery color.

In the photo below is my astilbe, which is a perennial. Astilbe plants come in a variety of colors; white, pink, red, lavendar, blue and purple. They are such a pretty touch to a flower bed. They are almost feather-like when you touch them.

The petunias that I planted along the edge of this flower bed have really taken off. If you want a flower that will bloom all summer then plant petunias (they are annuals, meaning you have to plant them each year but sometimes they will re-seed themselves and come back the next year).

Day lilies are just that, the blooms only last one day but they do put on lots of blooms that stagger their bloom time so you can enjoy them for quite awhile.

Have you ever planted wave petunias? This variety are spreaders and will really go crazy, in a good way. Before the end of summer this particular pot of them will be flowing onto the ground and beyond.

Lastly is my climbing rose. I bought it new this year as a bare root and planted it in a huge pot with a trellis behind it. It has barely started blooming but hasn't gotten big enough to start climbing yet. Next year it should really take off.

I love the little rain drop on the petal.

A PLEA FOR HELP

2011-07-11T17:15:00.000-07:00

In a few weeks my hubby and I will be hosting our second annual COUSINS CAMP OUT.

What I need from you are any and all ideas that you might have done with your children or grandchildren.

The age range is from 3-10. It is hard to find things that the little ones can do without boring the older ones to death. I am looking for some fun games and crafts for them to do.

Any ideas???

MORE OF OUR MINI VACATION

2011-07-05T11:23:00.000-07:00

Our mini vacation took us to Sister's, Bend and Prineville, Oregon.

I can't believe I didn't get any pictures of the town of Sisters so I had to go to the Internet and borrow a couple so that you could see how beautiful it is there.

This is a shot of the Three Sisters Mountains, after which the town of Sisters got it's name.

(Image credit)

You can see from the architecture of this post office that the theme is 'the old west'. All of the businesses and homes in Sisters were built to resemble this era. All of the homes have a rustic charm to them, even the new construction ones.

( Image credit)

I understand that the whole town turns into a quilters paradise this week with quilters coming form all over the country to enjoy this HUGE event.

There are cute shops and gallery's full of beautiful artwork and quilts. A very fun place to visit.

The rest of the photo's are my own.

We have some very good friends, Ren and Sue, that moved to Sisters a little over a year ago and we were able to spend some time with them. They drove us around the countryside and it was just beautiful.

Below is the beginning of the Metolius river. It just bubbles up out of the ground at the base of some rocks.

Here is a shot of the river just a few hundred feet downstream from where it starts.

This is the same river a few miles downstream. It was gorgeous and looked VERY cold.

This is a picture of a beautiful fir tree amongst the mostly pine forest.

We had some close encounters with these beasts of the forest. Well, not beasts but they were definitely courageous. They assumed we had some treats for them, unfortunately we weren't able to deliver, we had no food with us.

Look at that begging pose, who could resist?

They knew how to 'work it baby'.

Here is one taking the food right out of my hubby's hand the next day at the Prineville Reservoir park. We were feeding them some grapes but found that they liked the Fritos better.

Below is a photo of the Prineville Reservoir.

It is a beautiful lake with great campgrounds and boat launches.

Here is a shot of Mount Adams in Washington (looking north from Oregon). We were coming down from the mountain pass near Hood River Oregon.

This is the majestic Mt. Hood.

And one final shot from the car of the Columbia river, which runs between Oregon and Washington. This is what is called the Columbia River Gorge, one of the most beautiful places around.

COULDN'T HAVE SAID IT BETTER!

2011-07-04T07:46:00.000-07:00

I came across a blog this morning and LOVED what this sweet lady had to say about America.

Please take the time to hop on over and read the

"FOURTH OF JULY ADVICE"

that Kelly offers.

OREGON GARDEN INSPIRATION

2011-07-03T12:33:00.000-07:00

Last week we took a short four day trip around Oregon. Our first stop was the Oregon Garden located in Silverton.

Because of the late and wet spring we have had the garden wasn't quite in full bloom yet. There were some beautiful theme gardens as well as fountains and walking trials.

Here are a few of the MANY photo's I took.

Oh how I wish I had my own personal gardener and a greenhouse.

My grandfather always had such a beautiful yard when I was growing up. They lived in the Columbia River Gorge, (Cascade Locks, Oregon to be exact). There was always something in bloom. I know I didn't appreciate it that much as a kid but I sure have a love of beautiful gardens and flowers now.

After leaving the beautiful Oregon Garden we headed over the Cascade Mountains to Sisters, Oregon. What a fun little town that was. It has an old west charm without being too cow-boyish.

I will be posting about that tomorrow.

MOTHER NATURE AT IT'S FINEST

2011-06-27T13:59:00.000-07:00

My peonies are blooming right now so I decided to cut some so I could enjoy them indoors.

They are heavenly, not only are they beautiful they smell like you would think Mother Nature should smell;

soft and gentle with a hint of rain.

I wish you could see them in person.

GORGEOUS!

Notice my wrist with a watch on it in the right side photo, you can see how big these flowers really are.

AWESOME YOUTH CONFERENCE THEME SONG

2011-06-26T21:13:00.000-07:00

Check out this theme song that was written for youth conference for the Longview, Washington Stake (LDS Church) this last Thursday thru Saturday.

We have some awesome musicians in our stake that wrote, sang and produced this number.

The whole theme for conference was "Life is a Rock". They did a service project cleaning and repairing a Girl Scout camp. They also did an Amazing Race event which the kids thought was THE BEST!!!!!

It almost made me wish I was 14 again...almost!

LONG LOST BROTHER AND SISTER?

2011-06-25T06:04:00.000-07:00

Maybe it's just me but doesn't Sarah Gilbert and Constantine Maroulis look like they could be related?

Do you know of anymore celebrity look-alikes?

A LITTLE CLARIFICATION

2011-06-24T10:33:00.000-07:00

I have had some inquiries lately about offering free printables of some of my projects.

I would love to offer free printables of the designs I do but mine are all done in the Silhouette program and I don't think I can put them into a format that can be freely downloaded.

Although if anyone knows how to do that I would be grateful if you would share with me the process. Then I could share with all of you.

I do offer to make the vinyl designs and sell the ready made lettering at a very reasonable price. Please contact me if you would be interested.

Here are examples of some vinyl projects.

WINNER! WINNER! WINNER!

2011-06-24T07:30:00.000-07:00

I am happy to announce that VICKI from Green Eyed Girl Crafts has won the vinyl giveaway.

A big thank you to all who took the time to enter and leave such sweet comments and make my 400th post giveaway so wonderful.

Oh, and by the way, you should really go check out her blog. She is such a lovely person. She is always thinking of others. She does some really cute crafts too. Thanks for entering Vicki.

POST # 400 AND A GIVEAWAY

2011-06-21T13:00:00.000-07:00

I am out of my funk, got some crafting MoJo back and the sun is shining. YEAH!

I just noticed that this will be my 400th post. Wow, that took me by surprise.

So I am thinking this would be a good time to do a giveaway.

I made this framed saying as a sample for a class I will be teaching in the fall and thought it might be fun to offer the vinyl lettering as the giveaway. I found the frame at Goodwill and removed the picture, I thought I took a photo of the before but I couldn't find it in my files. Trust me, it wasn't very cute. I painted the frame black, removed the ugly picture, inserted some scrapbook paper behind the glass and applied the vinyl lettering on top of the glass.

If you would like to have a chance to win the vinyl lettering {you would need to find your own frame, mine was a 12x12} all you need to do is leave a comment. For extra entries you can become a follower and/or post about the giveaway on your blog.

I will be drawing the winner on Friday, June 24.
Also, please leave a way for me to contact you.

Head on over to the Sister's Stuff blog for a linky party too.

ONE OF THOSE DAYS

2011-06-20T09:53:00.000-07:00

Have you ever had one of those days?

When:

You are too fat

Your hair looks stupid

You have no friends

Everything you touch turns out bad

Nobody calls you

You feel like a failure

Your family just barely tolerates you

You have nothing cute to wear

You have no MoJo for anything

Nobody comments on your blog

Nobody even stops by to visit your blog

Well..........

It's one of those days 'round here.

But I will just roll with it and hopefully tomorrow will dawn brighter.

DO YOU LIKE TO GET YOUR GAME ON?

2011-06-15T05:39:00.000-07:00

I know most households have video type games like the WII and X-Box but when was the last time you gathered your family around for a good old fashioned board game night?

Is your family a game playing bunch? Or are they a bunch of party-poopers?

In our family we are somewhat divided when it comes to playing games. There are a couple of people (which shall remain unnamed) who REFUSE to play games when we all get together, some who will play but without much enthusiasm and then there are some who will play anytime, anyplace. I am in the category of the 'anytime, anyplace' group.

I remember when The Game Of Life first came out. I was probably about eight years old and my parents, sister, brother and I nearly wore this game out playing it. It must be a good one to stand the test of time for more than forty years. (OOPS! I just let you know that I am really OLD.)

This is always a fun one to play with lots of people, everyone can play without too much trouble.

If you like to play charades then you will probably like this one.

THE GAME OF THINGS is my all time favorite game. I blogged about this before here.

Be sure and bring your imagination when you play it though.

I really enjoy playing drawing type games but have found that not many people are fond of these types of games because of the pressure to draw in front of others.

Other games we enjoy include:

Skipbo

Cribbage

Pinochle

Cranium

Curses

Golf (card game)

HOW 'BOUT YOU? WHAT GAMES DO YOUR FAMILY ENJOY PLAYING?

I AM ALWAYS OPEN FOR SUGGESTIONS.

NOT MUCH CRAFTING BEING DONE LATELY

2011-06-13T14:09:00.000-07:00

This week has been busy with doing things around the house. A little babysitting, planting flowers and yard work have been mostly what's happening 'round here.

Babysitting this little cutie. I watch her a couple of times a week. Dawson is almost nine months old, where did the time go? It seems like just yesterday I was posting about her birth.

We've spent some time moving some plants around in the yard and planting new ones too.

I cut a clematis down and transplanted it to this area from a temporary raised bed along with a couple of other plants that I can't remember what they are. Maybe liatris or maybe some lilies? Hopefull they will thrive in their new home.

Here is my rhubarb that is sharing the same bed as the above plants. Hopefully they will all get along and thrive.

This whole flower bed got a makeover this year. It was taken over by lots of weeds and we declared war on it this year. I planted some new perennials this year in it so maybe by next year they will fill in a little better.

Below is an area by the made over flower bed that we re-seeded with grass seed.

This is the side of our storage shed. It needs some pretties too.

I have a wisteria that I am trying to train to be a tree instead of a meandering vine. The only problem with that is that you can't see the blossoms unless you go under the tree. These blossoms smell heavenly.

This is what it looks like as a tree.

This is one of the azaleas that is in bloom right now.

The only plants that were here when we bought the house eleven years ago were azaleas and rhododendrons.

All the rest of the photo's are taken in the front of the house. I know I posted about a lot of them already but they are finally starting to grow and fill in.

And that explains why I haven't gotten any crafting done lately. I have been playing outside in the yard instead of my craft room.

HOSTING BOOK CLUB

2011-06-09T08:38:00.000-07:00

I 'get' the opportunity to host my book club luncheon once a year, thank goodness it's only once a year, I stress big time when it's my turn.
There were ten of us that attended. The book for the month was The Dot And The Line, by Norton Juster. It was a fun and quick read that generated lots of interesting comments.

Here is the menu:

Pulled Pork Sandwiches

Chicken Salad Sandwiches

Layered Salad (recipe below)

Pineapple/Apricot Salad (recipe below)

Banana Split Brownie with Strawberries

Here are the recipes for a couple of the items.

Layered Salad

1/2 head iceberg lettuce

1 cup chopped baby carrots

6 green onions, chopped

1 zucchini, sliced

1 cup sugar snap peas

2 medium tomato's, chopped

3 hard boiled eggs, chopped

1 cup mayonnaise

1 cup sour cream

1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese

6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled

Prepare vegetables and layer in a pedestal bowl ending with the eggs. Mix mayonnaise, sour cream and Parmesan cheese together and spread over salad. Top with bacon.

This was the only picture I got of the food. (I was little busy).

And this is the only other photo I took. I don't own a lot of fancy dishes or glassware so I went pretty plain.

Pineapple/Apricot Salad

1- 20 oz. can crushed pineapple

1- 3 oz. package apricot or peach jello

1/2 cup sugar

1- 8 oz. pkg. cream cheese

2 jars apricot baby food or 3/4 cup pureed canned apricots

1 small container whipped topping

1/4 cut chopped pecans

Simmer pineapple (do not drain), jello and sugar in a sauce pan to dissolve; let cool to room temperature.

Mix together softened cream cheese and apricots until smooth. Add cooled pineapple mixture to cream cheese mixture until blended. Fold in whipped topping and add pecans. Pour into serving bowl and refrigerate 2-3 hours.

This is just a little information on how we do our book club.
We started out with ten women and felt like that was a good number to start with, any more than that would be difficult to host a meal for. We have lost a couple of gals to moves and other obligations but have picked up a couple along the way. Shawn, our organizer, originally came up with the idea of having it limited to ten women so that we would each have a turn hosting once a year. We usually take July and August off because of vacations but for those who can make it we will meet at a restaurant in July for lunch and have a barbecue in August where we invite our husbands to join us. Sometimes we choose a book for all to read (including husbands) for the barbecue that both men and women might enjoy.
We always have a good time enjoying one another's company, discussing the book, and more often than not we end up talking about lots of other things too.

WHAT'S HAPPENING IN THE YARD?

2011-06-03T14:46:00.000-07:00

Spring time pushing into summer, that's what's happening.

The weekend forecast is calling for the temperatures in the eighties-WooHoo!

Here is a close up of a bee working the heck out of this blossom. This particular plant is called Cranesbill or Hardy Geranium. It does very well here in the Pacific Northwest.

THE JOURNEY OF THE TRAVELING BAG

2011-06-02T17:58:00.000-07:00

Cindy, from Rick Rack and Gingham, has come up with a cute idea using this cute bag.

Go check out her blog for all of the details HERE and join in the fun.