The World Through My Eyes

Diary of 5 Week 2

2012-01-09T17:03:00.000-08:00

I am seeing..Dusk settling in for the evening

I am hearing..The nightly news

I am smelling...chicken baking in the oven

I tasted...Fresh pears

I am feeling... Discouraged with all that is going on in the family
Ya the daily documentation didn't quite make it so will attempt a weekly listing

Diary of 5 Day 1

2012-01-02T12:11:00.000-08:00

I am seeing...Bright blue sunny skies

I am hearing...My neighbor mowing his lawn

I am smelling...the fresh cut grass

I tasted...Trader Joes balsamic vinaigrette on my salad

I am feeling... Tired after my bike ride

I decided to restart the Simple Woman's Day Book. It was a great exercise to list what was going around me on a daily or weekly basis. She has a new site Diary of 5 in conjunction with her original site. I think this will be so much easier to keep on top of and will help to make me aware of my surroundings and feelings.

Day 2 of new diet plan is going fairly well. I am craving Reece Peanut Butter Cups ha Good thing I had eaten them all yes every last christmas tree, bell and mini cups before I started this new me makeover!!! So I ate breakfast yuck hate breakfast unless it is at a restaurant and they have eggs, hash browns bacon pancakes waffles, well you get the idea. Water consumption is down today compared to yesterday and again yes I hate water, milk, Crystal Lite but I love coffee and Diet Pepsi so as I say not enough water yet. Forgot mid morning snack oops but had my salad with veggies and protein. Oh yeah I get an afternoon snack and another big salad with meat tonite Can hardly wait. On a positive note I have gone on a bike ride yesterday and today so that is good. I am sure I will be less grumpy :) as I get used to eating breakfast/smoothie and salads for lunch and dinner. And I am really positive that the hoped for outcome will be well worth the sacrifice so dramatic yes I know:)
Somehow putting it on my blog for the whole world to see makes me much more accountable and if the snack box would sell out of the Reece Peanut Butter Cups before I go to work tomorrow life would be ever so much better

Welcoming 2012

2012-01-01T08:11:00.001-08:00

Happy 2012 to my Family and Friends

Well it is time to say good bye to 2011 and welcome in 2012. Seems such a short time ago it was welcoming in 2011. As I look back to all that has happened this past year I still see so many positive uplifting things that sustained and carried me through the more recent stressful heart breaking times. Our family remains strong, faithful and blessed that even though there are some tough medical issues happening we are still all in the present.
I was so blessed to spend Christmas with TJ and Jen and her family. We welcomed a new guest this year Tal, John's twin brother joined us. A great time was had by all of us with many jokes played on poor Sadera and lots and lots of rivalry playing games.

I don't make yearly resolutions as I don't keep them, enough said. But I am starting this New Year with a positive attitude and a determination to lose this weight that is slowly creeping up on me. Probably the Reeces Peanut Butter Christmas Trees attributed to that greatly:) So to that end I have shopped for healthy food choices developed a plan with the help of my daughter who has lost weight and looks magnificent. I have new containers to keep food fresh and to easily take to work with me. I am resolved to getting back on my bike at least 3 times weekly and riding that canal again. Will see how this goes. I am determined to take better care of me, letting go of unhealthy relationships, choosing wisely what I choose to do with my free time, staying closely connected with friends and family. If anything this past year I have learned time is way to short and we need to surround ourselves with family and friends that lift us up, support us, accept us, and love us just for who we are.
Since my parents aren't on FB I am adding a few Christmas photos for them to see.

Off to a healthy happy 2012

Merry Christmas

2011-12-24T05:32:00.000-08:00

Wishing all my Family and Friends a very Merry Christmas.

Ready For Christmas

2011-12-11T14:52:00.000-08:00

That title is certainly misleading! Ready I am not, getting closer but still a ways to go . Most of the gifts are purchased just a few difficult ones to look for, menu is planned and most of the decorating is completed. My Christmas album for 2011 is finished as of this morning and I can't wait to take the photos and put in it.
I was at Craftfusion most of the day yesterday working on this beautiful album taught by Suzette Ricks. We had cookies , doughnuts, pizza and home made fudge from Barb to keep our energy levels going. It was a fun class and I was able to complete most of the album there. This am I finished up embellishing the pages. I think this is one of my favorite albums ever well except the one she taught last Christmas.

The Stockings Were Hung

2011-12-09T16:51:00.000-08:00

I hosted a small group for a Christmas Stocking Swap. I kept the group small due to my time and work constraints and deadlines I was facing. My idea for the swap came from a wonderful online class I took with Nancy Maxwell James of Sugar Lump Studios. I really enjoyed her class and all her helpful tips and so the idea was born.
I assigned secret partners, to each of the members as well as a Dec 10th deadline. Christine suggested we all wait and open our boxes on the same day. So today is the reveal. The stocking are gorgeous and it has been fun as the photos came in to see how each of us interpreted the theme. We designed and filled our stockings with goodies and then mailed to our partner.
Below are the photos of our stockings and a little thank you I sent to each of the gals. The stockings are in no particular order just how they came up on the computer. I am already thinking of next year :) and what we could do and to being more organized time wise so I can invite more gals to join.
A special thank you Julie, Denise, Christine, Mary, Teah, Karen and Colleen for joining. All of your stockings are just so beautiful.

Little Christmas cones I made for each of the participants

Denise's Stocking

Julie's Stocking

Teah's stocking

Mary's stocking

Karen's stocking

Colleen's stocking

Christine's stocking

Mine

And Another Milestone is reached

2011-12-09T16:40:00.000-08:00

So Hard to believe that my Grandson Anthony is 11 already. Time has a way of just slipping by so quickly. I am very proud of the young man he is becoming, funny, goofy, polite, caring, and an all around great kid
HAPPY BIRTHDAY ANTHONY. Big wishes for a great year ahead

Happy Thanksgiving

2011-11-23T11:29:00.000-08:00

So many things big and small to be grateful and thankful for this year.
Wishing all my family and friends a Happy Thanksgiving

Where is the time going??? Happenings and a Challenge

2011-11-04T17:39:00.000-07:00

This fall is rushing by so quickly. Seems I remain a month behind.
I have been looking for an online class to keep me occupied throughout the long winter months and bless Maija she pointed me in the right direction.
I am signed up for Jeanne Oliver's online class Creatively Made.
Looking forward to some new creative adventures.

Meanwhile I have taken a class or 2, have issued a challenge to my daughter and Grandkids and am trying very hard to get over a big disappointment involving an event I so wanted to attend but can't.

I issued a challenge to my Grandkids and my daughter to take 1 photo per day every day in November and who ever completed all 30 days would receive a prize> Well they took it and ran with it and forgot to remind Grandma Nov 1st. They think they are all so cute that the are ahead four days. Hmmm we will see on Nov 30th. I am looking forward to their pics to see what they see behind their cameras.

Last nite we were invited to celebrate my daughter's birthday at CIBO. We were all so sad that TJ could not be in attendance work!!! called his name.
It was a fun nite very chilly but we sat indoors. The food as before was fabulous and their new soup was so over the top. John had brought cupcakes from their favorite bakery and of course got his favorite mother-in-law Red Velvet.

I was invited to spend an afternoon crafting with Tina and a great group of gals and we had a fun afternoon. The weather was beautiful, so we were out on her patio crafting and as usual Tina outdid her self with making it very special with all her decor.

And I took Dana Edwards Halloween album at Craftfusion. A fun class and I learned piano hinge which I love

Stimulating the Economy

2011-10-13T06:07:00.000-07:00

This economy has everyone tightening their fiscal belts and I have been no different! Last nite on the local news channel they did a piece on the economy and I found it to be insightful . Supposedly the recession was over in 2009 hmmm hadn't noticed that and supposedly consumers have cut back on their spending. Well that I have noticed as I sure have been reluctant to put out money for "unnecessary purchases". The expert related that to get out of this mess we need to start buying Ha A good excuse to spend.
I have been without a refrigerator for a month and I have to tell you eating out of cans has gotten way boring. Frequent trips to the store to purchase food for one meal expensive and time consuming. So Saturday I took the plunge and let go of some hard earned coveted savings and purchased my beautiful new appliance. Haven't filled it up yet but just love it. It actually keeps food cold or frozen. So I guess all this rambling is to say I did my part to stimulate the economy.
This is a quick pic I took with my cell phone right after they installed it not a very good pic but you get the idea

Catching My Breath & Catching Up

2011-10-09T13:32:00.001-07:00

This has been the first weekend since I came back from Iowa that I have had a chance to be at home with no classes, events, or have to's. It has been a whirlwind month and sadly September escaped me somehow. I hit the floor running when I arrived back to Phoenix on the 10th and it seems it just never quit. It has been nice to have three days off and to just take it easy not rushing around trying to get everything done and ready for a new week. I am enjoying the peace and calm of this weekend and the fabulous cooler weather. Having the windows open with a gentle breeze blowing in has been heaven.

So what was I doing in September?? Well I was taking classes and working and attending a wonderful event in California. Colleen was here for a short weekend and it was go go go!!!

September 16th and 17th found Colleen and I out and about. Friday was full to the brim with breakfast with Jan, shopping, shopping, shopping, and Beth Quinn's open house and then a lovely dinner with Julie at Tia Rosa'. Saturday we were up early and headed out the door to Patty's for Carol's Heirloom event. It was such a fun creative day and I am in love with my Fabric Spool.
Patty has a beautiful home so warm and inviting and she always goes all out in the food she prepares and all the little special touches. This is her menu for breakfast and what a wonderful breakfast it was.

Our project

Carol, Colleen myself and Judy. We had plenty of time to catch up with everyone

The kit with tons of wonderful laces, trims and goodies

My 12 panels completed

On the next Saturday the 24th I joined Mike and Lesley at Craftfusion for a Wizard of Oz album. Charmaine provided lunch for us and it was an all day affair's creating the fabulous book. Loved the class

Next on my agenda it was off to California to attend Denise's Craft For The Cure Event. Denise hosted a wonderful day and her Mom opened up her beautiful home for all of us to enjoy a day of crafting and laughing and of course eating!! Andrea and Denise's assistant from work provided a yummy lunch and Julie brought her famous cupcakes. It was such a great day to catch up with friends I hadn't seen in a long time plus we created 4 great projects.
Denise had made wire dress form sculptures for each table with breast cancer facts attached. It was moving to hear the instructors stories and advice they gave to all of us.

When we arrived there was a silver tray filled with goodies that had been donated and the cutest little bottle with a glittered skeleton head filled with M&M's.

The final class of the day was a collaborative collage board. I was so stressed out about this but with Andrea by my side I soon lost my inhibitions and got into it. Each of our boards were unique and all of them were wonderful

Karin's class was a glittered cake box. Loved it and Karin. She is just too cute and funny. Her kit came in cute decorated bags with a glittered clothes pin.

Our first class was Denise's we created a little skellie girl I love her and she is hanging in my kitchen giving it a Halloween vibe

Tara Wilson necklace I was so lucky to win

Halloween scrapping goodies from Karin and Paper Tales

Tara taught us to make a wire wrapped pair of earrings and I have to just say she made it look easy and I have mine done My photos were awful so need to get another

I completed this fun Halloween album by Jennifer Priest this weekend. She is so talented and I have done several of her kits. Wishing I could take a class from her in person.

So that wraps up my month of Sept and it is already Oct and I am still in Sept.Ha!! I finished moving and cleaning for the delivery of my new refrigerator tomorrow. When I arrived back to AZ from Iowa I had 2 refrigerators full of food that had spoiled. I have been living with just a small patio refrigerator and decided I had had enough!!! So off I went and am now the new owner of a beautiful stainless steel refrigerator. Can't wait to fill it up Getting tired of opening cans

Counting My Blessings

2011-09-24T09:09:00.001-07:00

This past 3 weeks has been a lesson in faith, patience, hope, joy and feeling truly blessed.
I made an emergency trip back to Iowa the last of August to be with Dad and my family as Dad underwent open heart surgery. Despite all the doom and gloom Surgeon and cardiologists Dad exceeded and surpassed their dire predictions. He is home and doing fantastic at cardiac rehab. I can not say enough good things about Dad's Doctors and Trinity Hospital in Fort Dodge. What a beautiful place and the nurses were the best. Dad's favorite Jordan was compassionate and so kind to all of us.
We as a family are so blessed. I was able to spend wonderful quality time with Dad sitting outside in the beautiful Iowa fall like weather watching them construct the new town water tower. Again a great blessing.
They say you never know who your true friends are till there is a crisis. I have to say it was brought home to me many times over. I can't thank everyone enough for the emails, texts and phone calls. They all boosted my spirits so much.
We managed to can tomatoes, well my sister did, I helped, make many trips to the hospital, pharmacy and grocery store and take Dad to his first rehab session. My trip ended with what the family calls a Red Neck fish fry. All I can say is it was fantastic good food and a great get together of family to celebrate the STRUCHEN's.

It was very hard to leave but work was waiting and I needed to get back.
Here are a few well many photos of my 10 days in Iowa
Tons of photos below sorry :) My way of documenting the time at home

The STRUCHEN'S Celebrating all of us being home

We checked this board every day to see what was on the agenda. Dad's goals were written and check ed off as he completed them

Trinity Regional Hospital For a smaller hospital it was A+++ It was like walking into a hotel with the valet parking, the beautiful water wall and baby grand piano. Every where were little sitting or eating areas for families.

How we spent many hours in the ICU lounge

My first glimpse of Dad post surgery Overwhelming with all the equipment, balloon pump and tubes every where

Jordan Dad's favorite nurse All of the staff were excellent but Jordan was Dad's favorite

Walking

Waiting

Driving many hours on the road back and forth

Anxious to go home

Free at last

Some of the 100lbs of tomatoes

Butterfly swarm. Monarchs were migrating and chose our neighbor's yard to rest for the night

Captured a butterfly on our door early am

Tree I caught on fire don't ask!!!!

Water tower construction Dad and I sat many hours watching them

Pics of our fish fry

It's Hot and It Is Humid but no Irene Here Just Dirt

2011-08-28T13:03:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, I took a class at Tina's home. It was a fun lots to try, experiment and learn class. Tina created a 8x12 album with lots of different techniques for us to try. Her goal was to show us that there is a million things you can do and use that you already have lying around. And yes I have lots of millions of things lying around my house.
Tina always goes way out to ensure not only do we learn but we are treated to her famous decor or themed events and yummy food. Her choice was perfect for the muggy muggy hot day. We were transformed into an island paradise with the most scrumptious food to sustain us as we created. The day was relaxed and we all enjoyed trying stamp carving (I am horrible at it) painting with different objects and lots and lots of visiting. I did manage to complete my cover and a few of the pages but will post pics of my album when it is completed.
To round off our day we were again treated to another round of wind dust and NO RAIN, although I hear some were lucky enough to get a few drops.
Busy week coming up so without going on about that here are a few of the many pics from the day
We arrived to a tropical themed paradise

Our table settings

My place

The food table

Marsh mellow smores Yummy!

Carmel apples

Jones pomegranate soda in mason jars

Our lunch boxes with Waldorf chicken salad croissants, fruit kabobs and chips in little paper bags

Strawberry shortcake in Mason jars

Marla hiding behind Cindy so we wouldn't get a pic. Cindy has the most magnificent vintage Singer feather weight sewing machine Oh my do I ever want one Going to keep my eyes peeled for this one

Front cover of ours project

one of Tina's pages

Looking highly likely that we are in for another dust storm or maybe said with fingers crossed some rain. Not to promising on the rain but one can hope

Dominos Anyone???

2011-08-22T17:31:00.001-07:00

Saturday was a fun relaxing class with Judy Wood at Craftfusion. It was beginning altered dominos.
We were greeted with yummy doughnuts and juice to start our creative adventure. Judy had brought in several of her domino collages to provide inspiration. It was a morning of learning her techniques for altering dominos and creating our own little collages. We all left with a completed collage

Hard at work

My completed collage

Dave's collage

Susan's collage

Thanks Charmaine and Judy for a great day. I have dominos swirling around my brain.

Saturdays class

2011-08-14T16:55:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I was able to take a class with Mike & Lesley (Jack and Cat Curio) at a newly opened Mixed Media/scrapbook store in Chandler, Craftfusion. Charmaine is a sweet lovely lady and makes all of her customers feel so special. It is remarkable in this financial climate that she jumped in with both feet to realize her dream. Love her store. It is bright and cheerful and has a wonderful classroom. Plus it is really really close to my house which could be trouble! If you have the opportunity pop in and say Hi!
I took the "The Invention � Steampunk Debutante & Altered Cigar Box" yesterday. It was a full day of painting, staining, learning lots of new things with modeling paste, alcohol inks and getting really grubby. My fingers still have evidence of black Staz on, black alcohol ink, white and turquoise paint as well as brown stain. Love it. I really really had a great time and love my altered cigar box. Charmaine even served us lunch. Pizza and paint yum!!!
Front of the box

Side view

Back

another side

and the hidden compartment inside

Loved having a completed project when I came home. Looking forward to more classes
Next Saturday is altered dominos :)

Happy Happy Birthday Vick Guys

2011-08-07T11:44:00.001-07:00

40 years ago Friday Tal and John entered into this world. Now separated by many miles, Washington State and Az, they remain as close as every. Jennifer laid the ground work to bring them together for their 40th birthday celebration. From the save the date cards from Starbucks. to the invitations and ending in a dinner for family and friends, she planned it all. It was a wonderful tribute to Tal and John enjoyed by their closest friends and family.

So last nite was the final hooray at CIBO Urban Pizzaria. In downtown Phoenix on 5th Ave this is a quaint very popular place. The restaurant looked like it had been an old house and we were lucky enough to be seated in the carriage house behind the main building. It landed just the perfect atmosphere for a celebration. Good food, wine and great friends and family helped John and Tal welcome in the big 40!

I will warn you all now there are a lot of photos as friends and family unable to join us requested pictures. It seems my camera was well used as many people were taking pics. When I got home there were way over 120 pics from our little party.

John and Tal

John and Jenn

Patio of the carriage house

wine corner

Inside the carriage house

Anthony and I. Anthony's hat was worn by all and many many pics resulted in his hat

Sadera and I

The girls

Anthony

My beer

Jenn's pizza it was a white pizza pesto potato and onion so so good

John and Tal with their Aunt Lezlie and Uncle Larry

Sadera and the Winn twins

Scott and Cassie

Winns with their twin boys and Anthony Yeap 2 sets of twins for them It seemed like a twin reunion

John and Matt (fellow band member)

John and Scott (another band member)

After dinner espresso

And finally to die for cupcakes from a new business in Tempe Great great delicious cupcakes

Last Days of July

2011-07-31T14:39:00.001-07:00

My Sister and I were talking the other day how quickly the summer seems to be passing by. The days are here and gone before I seem to accomplish all I need to or want to. Soon August will be here and then on to the holidays. Must be my age but time seems to move much too quickly these days.

I was lucky enough to have a 3 day weekend this past weekend and I filled it t the top with "chores" playing with family and friends and attending a fund raiser for the sweetest little boy ever.
My daughter Jenn and her husband got heavily involved in assisting with the fund raiser at a local neighborhood bar exactly 1 mile from my house. How great was that?? Sadera made bracelets to sell out of guitar pics, John of course played with his fellow band members Hello Swindon and Jenn and Anthony helped with all of it. I am so proud of them. Sadera sold out her bracelets to the tune of $700 and Jenn thought the tally she heard last night was 19,000 dollars. So despite the heat and humidity it was a great way to spend an evening. Below are just a few of the pics from last night. Most are on my FB page as requested.

Brox and his Daddy. Brox was recently diagnosed with Batten's disease. A very nasty genetic disease with very short life expectancy. He is the sweetest little one just broke my heart

Sadera manning her table full of bracelets

My bracelet

The best ever cupcakes donated by a new shop next door

Sadera and Jenn can you tell we were roasting

Jenn and Anthony

Sadera and her friends

John on drums playing Most of the pics Jenn took with my camera. The lighting was horrible so the band pics weren't turning out very well As a side note on their quest for health and well being John has lost close to 90lbs with exercise and a modified diet. Jenn is on the Scottsdale Insurance wellness program and has lost 11lbs so far go kids

More band

And every afternoon/evening the clouds come in we get a little wind or big as the case may be and then nothing no rain Who would think I would be wanting rain!

All of us kind of sort of played hooky Thursday and had lunch at the Olive Garden Nice break for all of us

And of course a week ago was pedi day with Jenn and Sadera They were to send pics of their designs but alas I think the pony express is even slower than usual. Anyway here is my newest design And I am thinking one of the favorites next to the Alice in Wonderland one I had
So another busy week ahead and tomorrow after work, I am off to the Grand Opening of Craftfusion. New store in Chandler with lots of anticipated classes and supplies
Have a great week everyone

Welcome to the Family

2011-07-17T16:24:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the family Greyson and Cambelle!!!!
Saturday morning in a hospital in New York and to the radio playing "Born in the USA" in the OR Zach and Amy became the proud parents of twins. My sister is now finally a Grandmother. Yeah Jo!!! It was so appropriate that that was the song playing as they were delivered. Greyson is the smaller of the two at 5# 3 oz and Cambelle weighed a whopping 5# 9 oz Cambelle has her Mom's dark hair and looks like lots of it and Greyson is sandy colored. With their hats on I couldn't tell them apart.
We are all overjoyed that these two sweeties are the 4th and 5th Great Grandchildren in the family.
Big congrats Amy and Zach we are all so thrilled and excited for you. Looking like Tuesday the little family will be discharged.
First family photo

Greyson is by Amy's arm and Cambelle is being kissed by Amy

Proud proud Papa holding his newborns

And so it begins with 2 of everything

Now I am waiting for a special friend to have her little one then baby watch is over I think

Happy Anniversary Mom and Dad

2011-06-29T00:02:00.000-07:00

Dad and Mom will be celebrating their 64th Wedding Anniversary on June 29th.

(Don Struchen and Audrey Hoff were united in marriage on June 29, 1947 at the First Methodist Church in Sac City. They have resided in Early for the past 60 years and are active members of the First Presbyterian Church in Early. Don is retired after 47 years at Iowa Automatic Gas Company and Farm Service. He also served on the Early Fire Department for 50 years. Audrey worked in Chicago before becoming a homemaker. They have four children, Sherry Bamsey, Jo Helmers, Steve (Kate) Struchen, and Scott Struchen. They are also blessed with nine grandchildren and three great grandchildren soon to be 5 great grandchildren with the upcoming birth of Zach and Amy's twins in Aug.)

We wish you a wonderful day of celebrating and many more years to enjoy each other

Random Sunday Things

2011-06-19T14:01:00.000-07:00

It has been a lazy kind of day. I am enjoying no have tos! I did make it out earlier for the bike ride and it was much cooler and a much more pleasant ride. No little creatures in the canal today.
After the ride it was get groceries and then home where I have not been too productive.
So here are a few of my favorites today:
New to me from Trader Joe's. These are almost better than my addictive Reeces Peanut Butter Cups. The salt caramel and dark chocolate are so good together

A memory from Iowa peonies. They smell so good. Loving them

My impulse purchase at Target yesterday. 1st batch was none too good. Second batch much improved

My new glass from where else Starbucks. It was filled with a skinny iced caramel macchiato. I made pretty quick work of that. Good thing I only go to Starbuck's on weekends.

I finished up my album from Carol's class last weekend. I even have pics in it. I think this is my favorite of all the heirloom albums so far. I say that until the next one comes out. I really enjoyed working in this one. I wasn't sure what I was going to do as far as pics but decided to add family and friends and a few pics of me. I still have lots of journaling to add but at least the pics are in it and the mess I made is cleaned up. So here you go Jo as requested the photos.

Dinner is in the crock pot, a load of laundry left to do and that pretty much completes my day.
Hoping all the Fathers I know are having a wonderful day.

Happy Father's Day Dad

2011-06-19T00:09:00.000-07:00

You may have thought I didn't see,
Or that I hadn't heard,
Life lessons that you taught to me,
But I got every word.
Perhaps you thought I missed it all,
And that we'd grow apart,
But Dad, I picked up everything,
It's written on my heart.
Without you, Dad, I wouldn't be
The woman I am today;
You built a strong foundation
No one can take away.
I've grown up with your values,
And I'm very glad I did;
So here's to you, dear father,
From your forever grateful kid.
By Joanna Fuchs

Catching Up

2011-06-17T18:26:00.000-07:00

It has been a crazy busy 2 weeks. Colleen flew in on the 10th for our class with Carol. I picked her up at the airport with Jan's help and off we went to Starbuck's of course. After dropping Jan back at home Colleen and I drove to Scottsdale to Frenzy Scrapper for a class with Sharon as a pre Carol event. Saturday was Carol's event and we learned many new techniques were wowed with our kit and treated to the yummiest meals. It was a very busy but fun weekend.

This week was the Baby shower for my Dietician Amanda. I will do another post with those photos and again a fun day

Below are photos of the weekend. Let's hope I can get it together to blog more frequently than once a month:)

My cover of my album not quite done at this point but is now completed just waiting for pics to be put in it

I purchased this galvanized mail center at Carol's flea. The mesh door opens and has hooks for keys. Not sure if I will leave it this way or alter it. I guess time will tell

Our kit in the metal tubs. This kit is packed to the brim with all kinds of goodies

The tables all set and ready to go

We learned to make porcelain roses These are mine drying Not too bad for the first time

Breakfast is served!!!! Note Colleen's hot pink cast:)

Dessert How these photos loaded backwards have no clue

More dessert

Lunch

A very special Birthday gift from Colleen. I was so so excited when I received these. 100 hundred year old French Paper Dolls. I am having them framed after I have them copied so I can use the copies

Friday class with Sharon. We constructed and embellished a cute mini album. Learned a new construction technique as well as using the metal tape

Sprinkles Yes!!! Now I can say I have had a Sprinkles Cup cake they were yummy

Our little mini album. Poor Colleen was challenged over the weekend with her arm in the cast but she managed to hang in there and finish her mini album and actually had a lot done in Carol's class

Next up will be Amanda's shower

Happy Birthday TJ

2011-05-16T01:09:00.000-07:00

Happy Happy Birthday TJ. I couldn't ask for a more caring, helpful, funny, mischievous son. I am so blessed you are my son and so very proud of you.

Busy and Productive Weekend

2011-05-15T16:57:00.000-07:00

This has been a great weekend. probably the first weekend in almost a year that I completely relaxed and enjoyed. Bought time I say!!!

I took time to get my fountain back up and running yeah me!! I was ready to throw it out but decided one last time to see if I could get it to run and whatever I did I have no clue but it is tinkling away merrily. It just gives a cooler feeling to the area on these hot days.

Then I planted 3 hydrangeas. I have my fingers crossed I can keep them alive as these are one of my favorite flowers. According to a lady that unasked just walked up and told me I would not be able to keep them from dying (thank you doubter) I chose a more positive approach and have absolutely no expectations. If they survive me and this climate yeah and if not I tried

Saturday Amanda and I took a class from Suzette Ricks. Although the photos uploaded out of order you can still see what a cute mini album this is. Waiting on my photos and then it will be filled. Thanks Suzette for a fun day.

Before I started laundry and all that good stuff I headed out for a bike ride on the canal. Plan was to do a very long ride and instead it ended up being shorter than I wanted. Some days the knees just don't cooperate. Looking forward to more regular rides even though it is getting warmer.

And to finish my day I made a new recipe for dinner. It actually turned out like the photo and it is good. Very rich but good. I am enjoying getting a new recipe every day in my inbox from My recipes

And lastly I made no kneed bread thanks to Sara whose blog I follow. I have to say it is yummy and I could eat the whole loaf tonight. Using lots of restraint

So there is my weekend in a brief nutshell. Tomorrow marks the last of our May birthdays when TJ turns 36!!!!

Celebrating Mother's Day & May Birthdays

2011-05-08T16:08:00.000-07:00

Today was our big May celebrations. 3 May birthdays Sadera, TJ and mine plus Mother's Day. We all met for lunch at The Elephant bar and the celebration began. Although short a good time with good food was had by all!
What better way to start the celebration than with a raspberry lemon drop martini yummo. I enjoyed it so much

Jenn and John

Sadera, Jenn, John and Anthony

Sadera and Jenn

Anthony, TJ (not smiling as usual can you tell he loves having his picture taken, and Sadera

Sadera answering a TJ question

and then the desserts oh my yummy desserts TJ and Sadera's Creme Brulee

Jenn and mine Citrus cheesecake brulee

And the huge mud pie that Anthony and John made short work of

Gifts exchanged and catching up done we all headed home. TJ back to work and the rest of us home to be miserable with all we ate.

My florist area:) Hydrangea plant from Mom and Dad. I am hoping it lives through the hot summer. Seriously thinking of keeping it in the house for awhile

Birthday and Mother's Day flowers from TJ and Jenn

Hoping everyone had a wonderful Mother's day. I had the best ever and am truly blessed with my kids and grand kids.

Happy Mother's Day Mom

2011-05-07T00:01:00.000-07:00

A mother is the truest friend we have, when trials heavy and sudden,falls upon us, when adversity takes the place of prosperity,when friends who rejoice with us in our sunshine, desert us,when trouble thickens around us,still will she cling to us,and endeavor by her kind precepts, and counsels to dissipate the clouds of darkness,and cause peace to return to our hearts.
-Washington Irving

Happy 13th

2011-05-01T08:02:00.000-07:00

Happy 13th Birthday Sadera
It is unbelievable that you are 13. Enjoy your special day
Love ya

Happy Easter

2011-04-24T07:49:00.000-07:00

Sending wishes for a joyous Easter filled with blessings to my family and friends

The 3rd and final weekend

2011-04-09T16:39:00.000-07:00

If you have been following me March was one busy busy month and it led into the first weekend of April. I was so lucky to be able to attend three events three weekends in a row. Each event was very different and unique from the others but the common thread for all three was the wonderful hostesses. Each hostess pampered us with beautiful decor, fabulous food and an over the top event.
The weekend of March 17th was Kim's Moulin Rouge in California. Loved it and had such a wonderful time reconnecting with California friends.
The following weekend of March 25th was Carol's event Bon Voyage. Again such a great time seeing everyone and creating a fabulous book

The last and final event although it was named the "non-event" was at Earleen's the first weekend in April. Deb Hodge journeyed from Cali to lead us through 2 fantastic classes. Saturday was a glass banner and necklace and Sunday was a beautiful lamp shade. Again the tables were decorated over the top, lots of unique beautiful spring themed decorations, name tags and goodies. So here is weekend #3 in photos

Colleen, Deb and I

Saturday's class kit made by Deb

Name tag made by Kelli

Our place settings that Kelli made. Just the cutest

Earleen gave each of us a beautifully decorated box filled with the best goodies

This is Deb's banner I still need to hang mine and then will get a pic

My necklace I hung it off of black, pink, and cream seam binding.

Our kits for Sundays class all done up in a watering can. These were so pretty I hated to open it

Sunday's class the lamp shade

And so ends a busy wonderful 3 weeks of the best of the best events. I have to say it is a bit boring here this weekend with no class to attend. The mundane laundry is really not stimulating my creativity

March A month of Creating

2011-04-03T07:34:00.000-07:00

March was my special month, a month of travel, friends and creating. After my weekend in LA enjoying Moulin Rouge Kim's fantastic event I came home a little on the sick side. I had one week to recover and get ready for Carol's event. Carol's weekend started with a soldering class taught by Lynda at her beautiful home in Queen Creek. It was a relaxed beautiful sunny day on her patio learning the art of soldering. By the way I am still not proficient. I hear practice is the key! I did manage to complete 2 charms and do have to say they turned out really well.
I loved the ambiance of Lynda's French decor. Her home felt so warm, cozy and oh so French. I loved that there were big clocks in every room.

My soldered charms

Bright and early I picked up Colleen and of course after a stop at Starbucks we headed over to Carol's home.

We were greeted by Miss Ella as we made our way to the front door.

Our table settings. As usual Carol had outdone herself in the packaging of our kits. The sweet clipboards with our names announced where we were to sit

The beautiful patio where our class was held

Table setting for the food

Colleen and I enjoying our breakfast in the patio area

Working working working stamping away

It was a beautiful bright sunny day to sit outside and enjoy creating our books. I still have lots to do to finish it
Thanks Carol for a fun day of class and wonderful food and friends

Moulin classes and swaps

2011-03-27T09:46:00.000-07:00

It is a week later and I am still in a haze of Moulin goodness, feathers, glitter and still unpacking. It is taking me forever to unpack all the lovely things from the goody bags, tablemate gifts and the beautiful things Kim bestowed on us each day.
Friday began classes. Our first class was with Shea and Debbie. They walked us through designing a beautiful necklace. I was shocked that I was able to do it and I do love my necklace. Next up after a fab lunch outside on the patio was Jenny and Aron's can can stage. Not finished with this one yet so no pics. Throughout the day Kim gave away the most beautiful gifts donated by some lovely gals.
Friday evening was our much anticipated swaps and desserts. I joined 4 swaps and had so much fun making and receiving them.
Our fab table group

My winnings from Karen. Love this beautiful box

Shea's class my necklace completed

Kerry's class I loved this class still finishing mine up

Vintage bling swap hosted by Cynthia

My partner Michelle and I with our pillows

All the pillows They were beautiful

My garter made for the garter swap by Michelle Duke

And the fabulous journal swap. I have spent hours looking through this. I love this journal. Michelle Geller hosted and put all of our pages together. It was fabulous

Moulin has been one of my favorite Kim events although each and everyone was special. I was sad toleave and come back to reality.
Next up Carol's event

Resurfacing

2011-03-24T20:35:00.001-07:00

Returning from the most wonderful weekend in LA and Kim's Moulin Rouge Event. Words are difficult to find to describe the beauty, the thought, the planning and the overseeing of every detail Kim put into this. It was just amazing. Our days were filled with friendships, classes swaps French Martinis, and wonderful food.
Colleen and I met up at the Belmar Thursday am.

Cheryl and Joy hosted a French Martini reception prior to the vendor fair. It was a great way to catch up with old friends and meet new ones

Friday morning began 2 days of classes. When we walked in to the class area it had been wondrously transformed from shopping to elegant tables fit for Can Can girls

On each of chairs was a beautiful black bag filled with the best of best goodies

I didn't take as many pictures as I would have liked. Our table was the best. Good friends Andrea, Susan, Denise, Jenny, Taisha and Colleen. Many laughs and great times were had.
Next up swaps

Happy Birthday Dad

2011-03-13T00:00:00.000-08:00

Happy Happy Birthday Dad

Hoping you have a special day. Enjoy the strawberries

Happy Birthday Mom

2011-02-21T00:10:00.000-08:00

Happy Happy Birthday Mom

Wishing you a day of happiness.
Although the past year was a trying one with health issues for you, I am sending good thoughts for this next year to be filled with good health and happiness. Love you so much

Time Goes By So Swiftly

2011-02-20T11:30:00.001-08:00

What have I been up to and where have I been?? are questions I am being asked since I seemed to have disappeared from blogger these days.
Well, it has been a busy month with work, fires and getting ready for Moulin. Then you throw in a few classes and it seems February has raced right by me.

I am blessed to be able to attend Kim's Moulin Rouge Event in March. With that there comes getting my attire together for vendor night, 4 swaps that needed to be attended to and of course a few new clothes to be purchased. I am looking forward to getting away for a few days to just relax, create and meet up with friends from California. I am flying out with Maija and returning with Colleen as she is driving back for a couple of weeks. Good times ahead that is for sure.
2 swaps completed packaged and mailed to the hostesses. 2 left to finish and bring with me for one on one exchanges.

In the meantime, I had a little excitement at home. While waiting for my ride to pick me up I heard sirens lots and lots of sirens. Walked out to my driveway to see Tempe, Mesa and Chandler firetrucks pulling into the house across the street. I could see black smoke and was wondering why so many trucks. Total of 8 trucks, ambulance Command Center truck and police. Needless to say my street was full of trucks. I ended up waking up to Elliot to catch my ride:). Meanwhile the house just kind of exploded with a fireball from the garage. Scary and I was reluctant to leave my house and go to work. But with that many firemen there I figured it was as good as it could be. Still not sure what is going on. Fire dept has been back mainly at night 3 nites in a row going over the house and property unmarked SUV's have been here in fact blocking off the streets while they were in there. The house was a rental and I really never saw the occupants just lots and lots of cars coming and gong. As TJ tells me I watch too much CSI:)

In between I have taken 2 classes from Suzette Ricks. Love her vintage style and I have completed one of her albums and need to get the next one completed. I am signed up for her 3rd class at Mystic March 5th. Another beautiful album "The House That Built Me.

Treasures Mini Album.
This was such a fun class working with vintage drawer pulls, buttons and lace.

"Vintage Finds" was a class by Suzette Ricks hosted by Earleen at her home. A fun class and a great time was had by all of us. And yes I mis spelled VINTAGE. Geesh I guess I was tired when I was finishing up the cover

So it is back to work for me, sewing my fingers to the bone well not quite. I am enjoying creating for the swaps for the March event
I would rather curl up on the couch with a book and blanket on this rainy cold afternoon. But my sewing machine is calling to me:)
Hoping all have a great week ahead

Sunday Post

2011-01-30T06:27:00.000-08:00

My goodness this has been a crazy 2 weeks. We are in the work eat sleep mode it seems. Obviously since I haven't blogged in awhile.
Yesterday was another much needed break from that work routine. Tina hosted another class from her beautiful home. 10 of us joined her to create a mini album. And what a fun fun day it was!!!! Lots of techniques, stamping and creative uses for office and Home depot supplies. I learned to hammer a word on a washer (great stress reliever) use metal mesh and on and on. In the end we had a mini album chocked full of fun embellishments. Poor Amanda had a "little" incident with glue explosion and a "bit" of glue in her hair.
As we arrived Rosie greeted us. Today she was allowed to stay with the group and she was very well behaved. Laughing with us and interjecting her own comments now and again. By the end of the afternoon I do think she had had enough of us and was ready for quiet.
Thanks Tina for a wonderful creative afternoon. So looking forward to the next class!

Miss Rosie. So so beautiful vibrant colors

Here she is ignoring me HA!

Cover of our mini album. Note the metal mesh in the corner

Our kits all bundled up

Name tags that we added to the album

Our place settings. Tina was very generous and gifted all of us with the stamp pad, glue sticks and the stand for our books

Tina, Amanda and I. We won't talk about the glue incident in the hair will we Amanda ??:)

Sharon, Tina and Sharon's daughter

Yummy snacks

Yummy cupcakes

I think Rosie was tired of socializing with us!

Reason I haven't ridden my bike all week. Flat flat tire. Daughter is supposed to come help me fix it today

New rain boots ha ha we never get rain but love the boots anyway

Class I took at Mystic Paper
What a fun class. 300 plus scalloped circles are added to the heart form and then sprayed with a glimmer mist type spray. I forgot to get a picture of it with the buttons on the frame oops!

Happy Birthday Dear Sister

2011-01-15T09:34:00.000-08:00

Today is my sister's birthday. Happy Birthday Jo.
Or should I say Patricia Jo Struchen Helmers HA!!!
I hope for you a year filled with nothing but the very best and lots of new adventures.
Have a wonderful day you so deserve it Grandma to be

Welcome 2011

2011-01-01T16:47:00.000-08:00

I have to say that I am not sad to see 2010 end and I welcome 2011 with anticipation, hope and with positivity.
So it is with great anticipation that I look forward to what lies ahead in 2011.
Each year I join in in Ali Edwards OLW (one little word). Only this year I have struggled trying to find that perfect word for me. I finally came up with 2 words that I thought would be a good fit. "Courage & Grace". I just couldn't decide which it was to be and so I chose both of them.

COURAGE to face all that this year holds in store for me with GRACE
COURAGE to stand up for my convictions
COURAGE to take the steps forward to improve my health
COURAGE to face each new day with a more positive attitude
COURAGE to do things on my own

GRACE to accept a helping hand
GRACE to admit when I am wrong
GRACE to let the natural aging process occurring without regret (A big one for me)
GRACE and patience for those around me

I am sure I will be adding more Grace and Courage as the days and months progress. For now I am happy with these choices.

Wishing everyone a prosperous, peaceful, joyous 2011

Happy New Year

2010-12-31T15:40:00.001-08:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL MY FAMILY & FRIENDS.

May 2011 be the best year yet

A Merry Christmas! Indeed It Was

2010-12-26T15:26:00.001-08:00

Christmas 2010. Again this was a very good Christmas. I was surrounded by family on Christmas Day. From the food, gifts and game playing it was just a spectacular Christmas. I am so thankful and grateful for my son and daughter and her family in my life.
My Christmas celebration started Thursday evening making a Gingerbread man with Sadera and Anthony. Trader Joe's has the cutest kit and the kids completed all by themselves. We then watched 9. Cute movie.

Friday was a quiet day finishing up a few little things and then helping TJ make his pumpkin brulee. We met Jenn and John at Firebirds for a Christmas Eve dinner. Yummy food good company.

Christmas Day was totally complete with a turkey and ham cooked to perfection. Potatoes via my sisters recipe. Food turned out really good. Gifts were exchanged and then we finished our day playing CLR (our new family favorite).Below our some of our pictures from the past 3 days

Merry Christmas

2010-12-24T10:25:00.001-08:00

Merry Christmas from my home to yours.
May your day filled with Peace and Joy

Tina's debut

2010-12-12T13:08:00.000-08:00

This past week can best be described by Maija and her newest blog post. It was a week from hell to put it bluntly!!! Maija did such a great piece on ups and downs so if you get a chance to read her post please do. I keep being told that karma has a way of evening things out and I so hope that is exactly what will happen.

So on with the true reason for this post. I had approached Tina a couple of months ago about teaching a class for some friends new to the scrapping and art world. Tina had decided to leave the storefront teaching arena and strike out on her own with her dream of teaching out of her home. Tina was so enthusiastic and soon had a class developed, date set and was ready to go. Yesterday was her grand debut and it was a successful day. She had put so much work into planning the day so we could all enjoy, eat and create. I volunteered to help however she needed me and so I headed out Saturday a bit early as I had no clue other than Chandler Heights dirt road where I was headed. Tina's email to all of us was explicit don't follow mapquest follow her directions. Well I plugged her address into my GPS and off I went. No problems other than I realized I was going to arrive earlier than I had said due to no traffic. Heck on a Sat who would think the traffic would be so light. Anyway I make all the turns and am so proud of myself I am not lost I am doing great. Wrong!!! No street signs when I get to the dirt roads. OOPS maybe I should have listened to Tina but too late. GPS says I missed my corner but I never saw a corner or road or sign. So .5 miles it says turn right and I do. Well big big mistake. This is a dirt road from hell with pot holes as big as the Grand Canyon. I attempted to straddle the ruts and just let the previous peoples tire tracks take me. Good thing it was just a short distance before I turned on to a paved street. I found Tina and even though she had just gotten out of the shower she welcomed me into her beautiful home. I have to say that was the only misadventure of the day. Everyone else followed Tina's directions and so had no problems go figure.

Our class was full of fun techniques, I was surprised as I was to be a helper and sweet Tina had a kit for me too.
Tina is a wonderful instructor upbeat positive funny. Her kit was packed with goodies. Amanda my Dietician joined us for the class and we had the whole table to ourselves as 2 people were unable to come. Hope you are feeling better Jean and poor Colleen's daughter had to spend her day in traffic school yuck.

Not only did we have beautiful ornaments as a sweet gift to us, we had cute packaged kits and yummy food.

Great debut Tina looking forward to the next class

Tina

Cover to our mini album + a layout was provided

Amanda's kit and name tag

Ornament which could also be a gift card holder. Mine is on my mini tree with my name tag

Tina had set up a small table in the entryway with some of her things for sale. I bought one of her beautiful flower pins

All that yummy food

Sharon in the back Amanda sitting working away

I bet you are all wondering what the heck I took a pic of a chair for?? Well this is a very special chair. Tina used to work for Waylen and Jessi Jennings and when he passed away this chair was given to her. It was Waylen's chair. Yeap I sat in it:) It is a huge chair although it doesn't look like it in the pic.

A fun relaxing day. Now on to Christmas decorating, laundry, groceries and all that. Looking forward to a much better week and hope you all have a great week

"Maison de Joie"

2010-12-12T11:46:00.001-08:00

After Earleen's Friday luncheon and class with Denise , Saturday morning arrived sunny with beautiful blue skies. It was a good omen. I was very lucky to be attending my 2nd Heirloom event. I picked up Colleen and after a Starbuck's stop we made our way to Annette's for Carol's "Maison de Joie" event. Annette had her home decorated so beautifully. The Christmas spirit was definitely present. Colleen and I did a little shopping from Carol's table as we waited for the other guests to arrive. When everyone had joined the party we were served a wonderful breakfast. It was so nice that we were able to eat outdoors in Annette's resort like yard and pool area.
Following breakfast the fun began as we created our covers to our albums. There was lots of chattering, catching up and laughter throughout the morning. Colleen and I sat with Teah and Karen. So good to see them and hear of their adventures and shopping while in Az.

After another wonderful lunch again eaten outdoors it was time to tackle the inside of our books. Each page is full of details and although I am not done (about 1/2 of the way) I love my album. It was so hard to say goodbye to a wonderful group of ladies. A very meaningful creative experience filled with wonderful ladies. Can't wait for the spring event.
A special thank you to Annette for being a great hostess, Carol for a wonderful class, Ashley, Annette and Earleen for the fab lo calorie food hee hee.

Below are just a few of the many pics I took. The group pic I borrowed from Carol's blog

Teah enjoying that fabulous popcorn Earleen makes

Breakfast fruit cups

The album

Our goodies at the table

Carols goodies for sale. I was able to get the tote on the right with the beautiful flowers and lace

Colleen. Annette's tree made a perfect spot for photos

Another of her trees she needs to come decorate mine

One of Annette's whimsical elves I loved them as they peeked out from all over the house

Annette's beautiful pool area

Just a week ago

2010-12-10T15:34:00.000-08:00

One week ago today I was taking a fun class with Denise Hahn in Earleen's beautifully Christmas decorated home. The lunch was wonderful, the class over the top and the participants the best. It was the best kick off to Carol's event on Saturday.

Denise had our kits packaged so sweet and we all had many laughs glittering, gluing and laughing over Earleen's special little girl from Denise.

I was able to catch up with Teah and Karen and finally Maija. Who knew we rarely get to connect except at events:)

Just a few pics of our day. My ornament hangs proudly in my living room. I love it. Thanks Denise. Please come more often to teach classes

Back from Iowa

2010-12-02T14:39:00.001-08:00

Hard to believe a week ago today TJ and I were in Iowa celebrating Thanksgiving with family. We were freezing our feet off. We flew into Omaha rented a car and landed in Early last Friday. From then on it was a whirlwind of trips to the store for food, helping my brother Scott pack u the old house and get the newly purchased house ready to move into. Lots of emotions for him and his boys leaving their beloved home and starting on a new journey.

My sister had done much of the menu planning and cooking for the week. She did an awesome job and we had tons and I mean tons of food. TJ took over the duties one night and fixed us yummy Asian short ribs. Zach joined us all the way from New York and brought lots of fun things to try. He made the stuffing and turkey for our Thanksgiving meal. Fresh roasted chestnuts were peeled and chopped and added to the stuffing yum yum yum. The he proceeded to make pumpkin brittle. That was a big hit with all of us.
It was good to be back visiting with family, celebrating our blessings and putting our very lives in jeopardy with the Black Friday Sale. Too much fun with TJ. He really gets into it and we scored some great stuff, which necessitated another suitcase to get it all home.
Just a few pics of our week in Early are below

Happy Thanksgiving

2010-11-24T20:56:00.001-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving from cold wintery Iowa to all my family and friends

Heading Home for the Holiday

2010-11-18T19:45:00.000-08:00

TJ and I fly out tomorrow morning. We are packed (way too much stuff) and have cameras, phones, DVD player, kindle all charged. Chargers are all packed:) We just need a good nite's sleep and we are set.
It will be good to be home, get grounded to my roots, see family and eat eat eat all that home cooked food. Tj may have to roll me back to Omaha to the plane.
Wishing all my family and friends a wonderful holiday

Busy Weekend

2010-11-14T14:13:00.001-08:00

Such a busy weekend for me. The time is flying by and I am not nearly completed with my long to do list. TJ and I fly out to Iowa for Thanksgiving with my family on the 19th. Sad that Jenn and her family can't go. They will be missed!!!
Reservations for shuttle pick up made today so in that area I am done. Now packing and getting all the little things I need to remember to take with me have not been started. Plus I have four days to get all those pesky work related things taken care of. Yikes I need to get going that is for sure.

I spent most of my morning waiting for Cox Cable to come install new internet service. Mine was slower than dial up!! Finally he arrived and of course was it an easy installation?? Nope, but you all figured that right? In a little over an hour the trench was dug, holes drilled into the house, cable run and viola I have super fast internet again. Love love love it.

Yesterday was my day just for me. I needed a creative break that is for sure. I took a class at Mystic Paper with Suzette Ricks. What a fun class and the result is a beautiful Christmas mini album. I finished it this morning except for photos while I waited for cable man. I am going to look for pictures when I am home this next week. I learned several new techniques and have to say I am on love with the Liquitex glass beads texture gel. This stuff is amazing and fun to use. Here are just a few of the many pages we created. Check out Suzette's blog for much better photos as no matter what I did this am I couldn't get a good pic of the covers. I am looking forward to her class in January Vintage Finds mini album

Front cover

Back cover

A few of the pages inside

Hoping to stay in touch from Iowa. Dad tells me there was snow. So I guess I need to rethink my wardrobe a bit. More jeans and sweaters and boots and scarves type thing:)

Happy Birthday to my Daughter

2010-11-08T00:05:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday Jennifer. Or as you have let us all know it is your day of excellence!!!! Despite all of our teasing of you being another year older we all love you so much.

I am so proud of the woman you have become. You are the best mother to Sadera and Anthony, a great support to your husband John and the best sister to TJ. I love that we are closer than we have ever been. Your sense of humor, your compassion, your willingness to always help others you zest for life make you unique and special.

Happy Birthday dear daughter

A Pickle of a Day

2010-11-06T21:48:00.000-07:00

It was a pickling day at my home yesterday. Jenn informed us that Bountiful Baskets was offering pickling cucumbers these week and TJ jumped on the wagon. He ordered 100lbs of pickling cucumbers. Yes that is most certainly correct. We all thought he was crazy but of course he insisted that he figured it out and that was correct. WRONG!!!!!! We have 50 lbs sitting in my kitchen needing to be processed:) It was a fun day filled with near misses of slicing fingers, steam burns, dropping a few filled jars as they were a bit hot coming out of the canner. Luckily none broke, laughter and the end result of 20 quarts of dills and 24 pints of bread and butter pickles. TJ was generous and split them with all of us. Now could we buy pickles in the store cheaper?? Probably but cucumbers+ spices+ lots of vinegar +equipment + family = priceless memories. And the best part my sinuses were clear! Probably from all the vinegar and spices cooking but it was a good day!

So pickling 101 began:
Jenn and John picked up the produce and delivered to my door. I am thinking TJ over estimated as this is a lot of cucumbers!

1st 25 lbs washed and ready to go

TJ slicing away

ready to process

20 quarts done

After we finished the 20 quarts of dill pickles we cleaned up and headed out to lunch with Jenn and family. It was a pre celebration of her birthday. I correct that as it is know as her day of excellence as she refuses to get older.

Then it was back home with recruited helpers to finish off the bread and butter pickles. We had willing helpers who had as much fun measuring and labeling the jars. Lots of laughter and helpful hints from Uncle TJ
Sadera labeling

Anthony stirring

Sadera filling jars under a watchful eye

And to finish off the day while I cleaned up Uncle TJ, Sadera and Anthony played Clue.
A good day one I am so grateful for. Plus I have pickles lots of pickles:)

Busy days of October

2010-10-24T14:24:00.000-07:00

It seems that I blinked and October rushed in and is soon to rush out.It has been a very busy month with a visit from Colleen for 3 weeks,classes, lunches and dinners with family and wonderful friends and work. After Colleen left it has taken me a week to catch up, clean up and get back to a normal routine. We did have so much fun while she was here and I am sure she is as tired as I was. From what I hear she is back in her Cali nanny routine and all is going well with the 2 girls.

So yesterday turned out to be a high tech day for me. I have wanted an iphone since the first came out but waited till I could upgrade. Yesterday was the day!!!! TJ was a sweetie and came in from Casa Grande to go with me. We had the fun bought , registered and ready to use within 10 minutes. So fast. Love my new phone and now need to learn all of the features ha ha. I was disappointed as they didn't have any cases well cases that I wanted so a pink bumper is on till I find the case I want.

While at the Apple store I also was able to pick up iLife 11. Loaded it and have been playing with the new iPhoto upgrade. Loving it so far but need a lot more time to play.

After our Apple adventure we headed out to see Anthony play baseball. It actually was a pretty nice day lots of sun and some of us were hot and some of us got a wee bit red. Following the game it was to the Olive Garden for lunch with the family and then home to rest. Jenn and John had a Halloween Party to attend, Anthony had a birthday party to attend and Sadera came over and stayed with me. She frosted Halloween sugar cookies and we had fun decorating the with only frosting as Grandma had no sprinkles, candies or anything to decorate with. oops!!!!

John and Jenn ready to head out. Jenn found this jacket at Goodwill and I can't wait to get it and cut off all the rhinestone trim and buttons:)

The Vicks

Sugar cookies Sadera brought over. Ghosts,bats, pumpkins, frankensteins, and gravestones

Sadera frosting

Her finished cookies. She did these all by herself Good job. She has one special one for Uncle TJ

TJ giving me the evil eye. He loves having his pic taken

Baseball Parents!!!

Anthony pitching

Anthony batting

A great week end has flown by and tomorrow it is back to work for me. Hoping everyone had a great weekend
Colleen still waiting for you to send me pics hint hint

End of an Era 10/10/10

2010-10-10T16:18:00.000-07:00

Today marks the closing of The Presbyterian Church in Early , Iowa. As I write this the closing ceremonies are being held. This is the Church that at least 4+ generations of the Struchens worshipped. There were many baptisms, confirmations, weddings and funerals all held in this Church. I was baptized, attended Sunday School and Vacation Bible School here, confirmed as a member of the Church here, and married here. A tradition held by my parents, Grandparents and Great Grandparents. So it was with a heavy heart as I read Dad's email saying that today was the final day of Church and that the closing ceremony would be held. Many good memories of this Church

Last year Dad and Mom rescued this little wooden folding chair. I sat on a chair like this every Sunday for our Sunday School class. I was also lucky enough to receive one of the old hymnals

Last day of the Weekend

2010-10-03T18:08:00.000-07:00

And so 3 days off have come to an end. It has been a whirlwind of celebrating Colleen's birthday and stay here in Arizona. From lunches with friends, shopping till we dropped, printer lessons, good old girl chat it has been a fun, energizing as well as exhausting weekend. Today the weekend concluded with a brunch at TC's restaurant with Colleen's inlays, brother-in-law and sister-in-law. I was so lucky to be able to join them. and so as I said before the weekend is coming to a close. Time to think of getting everything lined up for the work week.

The beautiful Jew family
Jan, Colleen,John, Daisy and Roy

Colleen

Roy and Daisy

Colleen Roy and Daisy

In between running around I managed to finish 2 swifter duster things. If you are like me whenever I was ready to dust I had run out of the swifter duster cloths. So when I saw this easy pattern to make reusable ones I decided to try it. It was so easy to make them and it is good for the environment as there is no disposing of the used cloths. Also it will save me money and most important of all frustration:) when I have run out of the refills

Sewn and ready to be washed and dried

Fresh out of the dryer and yeah they work well!! I have some beautiful flannels to make more

Happy Birthday Colleen Day 2

2010-10-03T07:52:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Colleen. Wishes for a great year filled with family, friends and wonderful events sent your way!!

The Birthday girl arrived at 9 am Saturday morning to start her celebration. Of course first stop was Starbucks for needed coffee and a pumpkin muffin for me and a banana for Colleen. Ya you can tell who eats healthy :)
After fortifying ourselves with beverage and food we headed out on our marathon day. 1st stop was Mystic Paper. Lots of new goodies to be seen and purchased, classes to sign up for and visiting. From Mystic it was on to Fiber Arts where we were in awe of the beautiful yarns especially the hand dyed ones. We both ended up with needles and yarn to make socks.. Well let me tell ya I have the stitches casted on and now am stuck guess we will see if I can figure it out. From Fiber Arts to Scrapbook's etc.
Do you begin to get the idea we were on a mission??? Lots of shopping completed everywhere we went.

So, since it was sweet Colleen's Birthday she chose to return to Urban Loft for lunch. Probably, in hindsight not our best decision:) Lunch was very very long in terms of waiting to be served and parking lets just say there was NONE but we still managed to have a great lunch fabulous yummy desserts and enjoyed just sitting and catching up.

It was a good day as they say. Tired hot and broke ha ha we headed home.

Colleen who rarely has dessert with her gelato. Happy Happy Birthday Colleen

Chicken citrus salad was lunch

Our teas Colleen's looks like water but it really was tea

My tiramisu

So today is day 3 and I am joining Colleen and her family for brunch at TC's. Then it is home to clean, laundry and oh ya maybe a nap

Day 1 of 3 days off

2010-10-01T18:49:00.000-07:00

Today is the 1st day of 3 days of celebrating Colleen. Colleen arrived a week ago and today was really the first day I had to indulge in a girl's day of play.
We met Earleen and Annette at Urban Tea Loft in historic downtown Chandler for lunch. The lunch surpassed all of my expectations. It was delicious.

Following lunch we headed over to Merchant Square for a little antiquing. Seems we all came away with some beautiful things. I was lucky to find laces and some beautiful vintage linens as well as some jewelry.

Colleen enjoying our wonderful warm weather:)

The group Annette, Earleen, Colleen and myself.

It was a wonderful day of friends, laughter, good food and great shopping. Tomorrow day 2 is actually Colleen's birthday and we are off early am with a big list of places to check out.

Random Things From My Weekend

2010-09-26T16:09:00.000-07:00

Oh my goodness September is almost over. I seem to still be in August and soon it will be October. My new Halloween Banner is courtesy of Sandy. Love this banner and even though it is still in the triple digits I am dreaming of cooler temps, soups and casseroles (my comfort foods).

So again it is Sunday afternoon and time seems to have accelerated and my weekend is gone. It was a very busy weekend starting with a trip to Michael's for what we thought was a duct tape demo for making costumes. Alas it is next Saturday. Oops wrong day. Sadera is duct tape queen so we were all disappointed well maybe not Anthony that we had the wrong day. We did manage to pick up a few things for craft projects to get us into the Halloween mood. After our failed Michael's trip we headed to Olive garden for soup and salads. Good food and good to be with Jenn and her family. One of these days TJ has got to drive in from Casa Grande and eat with us. So far we haven't convinced him.

After a quick Target run and near misses of accidents in the parking lot we headed home all of us tired and hot. I was taking a brief nap when Colleen called to tell me she was 30 minutes from my house and was stopping by for a few minutes. It was good to see her and we were able to catch up on everything. She went over to Roy and Daisy's unloaded and then we headed to Wildflower for dinner. Soup for Daisy and me, fish for Colleen and Roy's favorite linguine and clam sauce. A fun day was had by all of us.

Today's adventure was Starbucks (Colleen is back in town:) ) and yard sale at Kim and Ricks. I think we visited more than shopped but each of us came home with treasures some of us had much bigger treasures than others. So big that it will take a haul to bring it to Colleens. She is now the owner of a beautiful old old post office cabinet with tons of cubbies and beautiful doors that shut and hide everything inside. Too bad I don't have room for it or I would have stored it for her wink wink!!! Kim has pictures of the cabinet on her blog check it out.

It has been a good weekend and am sad it is almost over. I need another day to clean or not.

In between running around I managed to finish up my pumpkin. Got to love glue guns they save so much time.

Yard sale treasures a typewriter and a big old jar

More ceiling tiles, keys lace cards buttons and an embroidery patter

Yes my grand kids were goofing off trying on Christmas hats

the kids and me

Jenn and kids

And so another weekend ends and another busy week begins
Colleen is here for 3 weeks so I am sure we will have several adventures in the making

Carol's Heirloom Class

2010-09-19T16:51:00.000-07:00

I was lucky enough to be able to attend Carol's Heirloom class on Sat. What a wonderful day with the most amazing hostess Patty and the best teacher Carol. The food was so fabulous, the group of ladies the best, and our class simply over the top. Below are the photos of my finished book. I love it. More posts on the food later. I can't say thank you enough to Carol, Patty, Earleen and Annette for encouraging me to join them

Beautiful fabric cupcakes were gifted to us by Carol. As a bonus she taught us how to make them!

Our class kit

Inside the case

My book

Colleen and I are taking Jenny Hernandez class at Mystic Paper in October

Where did the weekend go????

2010-09-12T18:07:00.001-07:00

It doesn't seem to matter if I have 3 days off or a normal Saturday & Sunday off, it is never ever enough. Here it is already 7pm and I am getting ready for work tomorrow. Last early day and then back to the old routine. So what did I accomplish this weekend?? not too much as far as the home front goes. Just the usual laundry and clean but no yard work. Now on the creative level I had a great inspiring weekend. I rode to Payson with Earleen and Annette on Sat am for a class by the 2 gypsy girls Debbie and Paula. I had my doubts I could construct a house that would stand. Due the patience of the 2 Gyspsie Girls my house is still standing today:) I loved this class. The roof holds the little album and the clever use of the 7 Gypsy elastics made the page signatures so easy.

After class we joined Annette and her family at their reunion. Invited crashers we were. We feasted on Alaskan Salmon thank you Robert and all the yummy goodies from a reunion. A couple of quick stops at two stores (again thanks Robert for your patience) and a few purchases in the cute boutique of hats, scarves and a new top, and we were off to home.

It was wonderfully sunny but cool in Payson. It was a great day. Thanks Earleen and Annette

Earleen and I

Debbie Earleen and Paula

My house love this project

One side of the roof

The roof in closer detail. The little album is connected to the roof
Inside the album

Still working on my Romantic Gothics Ghosts class. Loving every project

Hope everyone has a good week

Catching Up

2010-09-06T15:56:00.000-07:00

It has been a couple of weeks since my last blog post. I thought I better get going and catch you all up on what is going on in my life.
I signed up for Karla and Beth's online Romantic Gothic Ghosts. I am loving each and every tutorial.
My latest is this pillow. It was actually supposed to be a tote that Beth made but I decided to make a pillow out of it.

Beth's little notebook

Karla's banner. Again I changed it up and hung it on a floral wreath wire thing. Not sure what you call those things

The last weekend of August was filled with celebrating Miss Maija. We celebrated her 50th birthday with a surprise party that Earleen was the hostess. Annette hosted a brunch Sat am before we all headed out shopping. We came from near and far and the best thing was we all kept the secret so well. Maija was Surprised for sure. From Friday and Saturday It was a weekend of food, fun, shopping and make-n-takes. The best of weekends by far. I just didn't get many pics as I guess I was busy eating,shopping and visiting with Colleen. Colleen was able to flying for the weekend and we had fun catching up.
So here are a few of the photos I was able to take. Michelle L, gave us a class on mosaic and we made a sweet little heart with a Charlotte's head. Some of my table mates to rename nameless took their heads off. Melrose provided the cutest little photo album and Jennifer at Mystic Paper had us make sweet little witch or fairy figures. We ended Sat with a group dinner and it was wonderful catching up with everyone. Just a good weekend with dear friends.

Online class

2010-08-23T14:47:00.000-07:00

I am so excited to have signed up for an online tutorial with Karla and Beth
Can't wait to get started

A Good Ending to a Long Week

2010-08-21T19:44:00.000-07:00

The past two weeks have been long stress filled and did I say long and stressful. I really looked forward to this week end to just relax and enjoy a class at Mystic. All my wishes were fulfilled.

My week started with a theft. Someone had the nerve to not only come onto my property during daylight but also while I was sitting watching TV in my living room. I guess they couldn't get the extension cord unplugged so she cut it. I couldn't get to the driveway fast enough to catch her or get the plate number. Geesh an extension cord??? So I have had a feeling of insecurity and a little fearfulness since. Slowly ever so slowly that feeling is leaving.

Today was just what I needed. A day to play with Sadera and Jenn and Tina We met at TC Eggington's for breakfast. After a yummy filling breakfast of fritatas we headed to Mystic Paper to take a fun class with Tricia

Sadera& Jenn at breakfast

Tricia was demonstrating the Cannon Selphy printer. To say we all loved it is such an understatement. Tricia was so generous and printed many pics for all of us to add to a 7 Gypsies mini journal book

Jenn & Sadera working on their mini journals

The calendar option of the printer

The 2x2 option

Another special effects option

My little 7 Gypsies journal. Still working on it

Despite the stifling heat and humidity it was a great day. Thanks Tina for sharing the day with us.

Expectations not fulfilled

2010-08-15T19:22:00.000-07:00

Well this weekend I had huge expectations of getting the front yard cleaned up, the pool fixed and my disaster of a scrap room cleaned up. Need I say none of the three came to pass. The landscapers were a no show. I waited all day for them to come haul the tree away and nope nothing. I have a feeling Sheriff Joe may be the cause. My neighbors landscapers didn't come either and he has the same theory. Pool repair people called and an "emergency" prevented them from coming so rescheduled for next week. Then we come to the ROOM the mother of all messes. It is a disaster that is for sure. I had such good intentions, but..... as I was putting things away, throwing things away and generally trying to organize and destash I happened upon the ceiling tin tiles I had purchase from Mystic Paper a long time ago. I thought it would make a great mini album of Les Sirenes event I attended in California in July. So out came the Graphic 45 beach papers and away I went. Time flew as I put together this album. I used a lot of the wrappings, tags and embellishments I had collected from the event. The general pages are completed and I even have some photos put in it. Still need to add more photos and journaling to complete. I am pleased with the project and am anxious to really finish it.

Friday after work I made a perilous mad dash to Mystic to pick up more Graphics45 Steampunk Thinking this is my favorite yet. Have a few ideas for these papers but I really need to attack that room and get it cleaned up before I do anything else.

Cover of the album. Wish I had picked up a few more of these tin tiles

Inside pages

So the weekend is over and tomorrow it is back to work. I think the weekends just fly by or maybe it is I try to squeeze too much into them.

A Little Trim Please

2010-08-07T16:00:00.000-07:00

This has been one week that I am so glad is over. I am hoping that next week is going to be a much better one. Tuesday when I got home from work a big branch from the olive tree in my front yard was laying in the yard. I was lucky that it missed my house. Fast forward to today. TJ rounded up the troops and they all descended on my house with fresh croissants to take care of the BIG branch. Well they decided to take down a few more branches to protect the house. Ummmmm Jennifer, Sadera and I were sent to Home Depot for a chain saw. When we got back over half the tree was down and a short time later the whole tree was lying on the ground. Little Anthony had a huge blister on his and from using the small saw to cut up the branches. After cleaning up the mess and filling TJ's truck with as much as we could we all showered and headed to lunch. Time to celebrate John's birthday

My huge olive tree pre it's trim!!!

The fallen branch

Anthony working so so hard cutting the tree up

And the little trim turned into a take down!!

The girls!!!!

The guys

Another yummy lunch at Cornish Pasty, lots of conversation and laughs
Thanks kids for helping today

Monsoons Have Arrived

2010-07-30T18:28:00.000-07:00

I was beginning to think we mightn't have monsoons this year. It seems they were late compared to past summers. But never fear this week the humidity has risen to an unbearable dripping ugly mess, big black clouds rolling in, winds and dust but little rain.. Thursday the rains started and we must have had a really big storm. Roof leaked, patio flooded and a lot of rocks washed down the yard away from the house. This morning I woke to a gentle soft rain most of the morning. Loving it. According to the news it looks like our weekend will be rain rain rain. Been a long time since we have seen a lot of rain.

My Sister has been busy making necklaces. I was lucky to receive one of her creations in the mail this week. Great coming home from work and finding a gift in the mailbox. I have already worn it and it goes great with jeans

So not much new. My family in Iowa, all got together and are camping. Miss those camping days. Sleeping in a tent, cooking over the campfires, swimming in the lake. Long time since I have done that.

Barbies & Mermaids Oh My

2010-07-24T17:54:00.001-07:00

Earleen called me earlier this week and wanted me to attend a class at Mystic with her. So this morning I headed down to Mystic to do an altered shadow box with Mike and Lesley
Jennifer was hosting an altered Barbie swap and the unveiling was also today. The Barbies were unbelievable in all the detail and work that was put into them. Kim J has much better individual photos of each Barbie. Check out her blog to see more of them

After the unveiling and a little shopping :) I headed downstairs to class. What a pleasant surprise to run into Victoria and Barb. We used to do an altered journal club monthly and had such a good time. Miss those gals. It was great to catch up with them.

Earleen and Kelli were settling in when I arrived. Again what a surprise to see Kelli again. Love her gentle sweet spirit. Kelly gave Earleen and I some really neat goodies Thanks Kelli.

Mike and Lesley

The kit

Inside the kit

My almost completed shadow box. What else I am still in mermaid mode. Need to add a few more shells and the feet to the box. Loving it

and that is my Saturday. Now to cleaning, laundry and all that good stuff:)

Les Sirenes> Sat

2010-07-23T16:27:00.000-07:00

Sat morning I woke with anticipation about our next 2 classes and sadness that my wonderful Mermaid adventure was in it's last day for me.
After another yummy breakfast we headed back to our class area. On every one's chair was a burlap bag and inside a group picture beautifully framed. A gift from Kim. Word had it that Queen Mermaid Kim and her sea nymph helpers made these for us Love the frame and photo

Our hostess Kim, Instructors Jenny H, Julie T, Holly S and Melissa P and Jenny Doh

Our 1st class was with sweet Julie. We had a choice of making a headband or using Julie's project another way. We added beads to a starfish. Of course I am not done but plan to use mine in a frame. The pic below is Maija modeling her headband

Lunch was a beautiful sit down meal with beautifully decorated tables. Following lunch Jenny Doh gave a very inspirational speech. I think there were many tears during her talk. Her talk validated all of us.

Melissa had the last class of our adventure. A mini beach album. I love this album and it was fun putting it together

After packing up all of our supplies and taking them to our room we had a quiet dinner with a few of the gals that were going back to work and finish up all their class projects. Colleen and I said early good nits and headed back to pack.
It was hard to say good bye to such a relaxing, inspiring, fun filled weekend Thanks Kim for all you did to ensure we all had the best Mermaid adventure. And that finishes up my last weekend adventure.

Tomorrow I am heading to Mystic to take a class. More later

Les Sirenes Part 2 of Friday

2010-07-22T19:59:00.000-07:00

After lunch and mermaid jean contest we came back ready to start our class with Jenny Hernandez. This was the class I was most worried about. I needn't have worried as Jenny gave us great instructions to make a cute cute little mermaid pixie. She was so generous and also gave us a bigger mermaid to complete at home. I have to finish my big mermaid up and then will post.

After dinner we returned to a dessert and swaps evening. I joined two swaps the necklace hosted by Christine and the wall Hanging hosted by Joy. While we were indulging in desserts and swapping Fiskars did a fun make-n-take,

And that is day 1 Friday. Stay tuned for day 2 Saturday another amazing day

Friday Day 1 of the Adventure

2010-07-21T11:45:00.000-07:00

Friday morning dawned early with Sunny Blue Skies. After a breakfast with a great group of ladies it was time to begin the adventure. The breakfast was so so good. And yes I ate unlike my roomie who had a banana and poached egg. Moi potatoes, bacon and a scrambled egg :) I like to eat I admit it.
As we walked into our class area we were in awe of the beautiful transformation that had happened while we slept. I must say again Kim had thought of everything down to the most minute detail. Everywhere you looked was beauty, blues, seashells, mermaids Just absolutely delightful.

Our table was adorned with a beautiful centerpiece and lots of seashells. Chairs had a burlap and sea shell wrap and oh my the goodies awaiting us. A bag filled to the brim with lots of goodies from generous donors, a digital mermaid sheet from Holly and our name tags.

My table mates minus Andrea and Kathleen

Our 1st class was with Miss Holly. This was one great class. We constructed everything by hand a created a beautiful pillow. Of course mine needs a few finishing touches so the pic is of Holly's.

Following class it was time for lunch. What fun to actually be able to sit outdoors for lunch. (Way too hot in AZ to enjoy outdoor dining) Salad, sandwiches and divine potato chips and delicious cookies were consumed by all of us.
After lunch Sherry Williams hosted the Mermaid jeans contest. Several of the very talented ladies embellished jeans, tops, dresses. The beautiful Denise Hahn won with her fabulous jeans

Oh my this has been a super long post. I will finish up day 1 tomorrow

Back from the Beautiful Sea of Mermaids

2010-07-20T18:06:00.000-07:00

This past weekend I was in LA for a long anticipated weekend at Kim's Les Sirenes event. It was a much needed relaxed, stress free weekend of classes, friends, and beautiful cool weather. Thursday AM I boarded the plane and soon arrived in LA where I met Colleen. We headed to our weekend destination the Belamare. What a fun boutique hotel. So many little details in the room made for a delightful weekend.

The Kleenex had a tissue rose sitting on top of it

My favorite the phone. Loved this phone

My comfortable bed

After a lunch with a few of the beautiful ladies we prepared for our first event the "cocktail " party hosted by Joy Campbell and Terry Frias.

Yummy lemon drop martinis

Colleen and Val. Note Colleen is holding my martini

The party in Joy's room

Andrea and I

Sweet goodie bags from Joy and Terry

The room with all the beautiful decor

A glimpse of the table all decked out

After indulging in martinis and appetizers we headed to the vendor event. I found some beautiful jewelry from Jamie, cute kits and treasures from Denise, a wonderful top from Deb Hodge, and beautiful laces and a new Kindle cover from Kim. MY shopping wouldn't be complete without a doll from Holly. I now have a beautiful Mermaid doll sitting on my computer desk to remind me of our wonderful weekend. I also now am the proud owner of holly's pin book. We visited and met so many new people. It was hard to say goodnight. But we did as we knew Friday would be a big day.
More tomorrow on Friday's doings

Just a lazy weekend

2010-07-11T07:46:00.000-07:00

After my hair appointment yesterday morning I headed to Mystic Paper to see Jennifer and to check out the demo Tricia Samsal was doing with the Cannon printer. She printed poster size photos if you brought in your camera card or flash drive. I was so pleased with this photo and how it turned out. Thanks Tricia. While there Kim J and her beautiful daughters and grandsons stopped by. We all had a great visit catching up.

The poster

Cards from card class at Jan's

So today was usual house stuff, lunch with John and Jenn and now just relaxing. Not much new in my life right now
Gettinng ready to head to Cali for the weekend so will have lots to share next week

Happy 4th

2010-07-04T05:57:00.000-07:00

227 years ago...on July 4th, 1776
This great nation, the United States of America,
In a struggle for what was right and free,
Was proudly born...
May we celebrate that precious freedom
For which our forbears fought so bravely...
The freedom that is inherent
In the Stars and Stripes, our revered flag...
Celebrate Freedom
This Fourth of July!

Take time out from your celebrations today to remember all of the brave men and women fighting and sacrificing for our great country

Celebrating with Julie's wonderful cupcakes. Just look at these cute jars filled with the most delicious cupcakes.

Planning a quiet day Happy 4th to all my family and friends

63 years and counting

2010-06-28T23:59:00.000-07:00

Happy 63rd Anniversary Mom & Dad
Many more years of happiness is my wish for you

Here it is Sunday already

2010-06-27T14:49:00.001-07:00

Another busy weekend that seems to rapidly passed by. It is hot so very hot but our summer is just getting started. I expect it will get hotter before long. Have to say glad for air conditioning. Last year we lost our air conditioning at work and suffered a few days. So far we have a cool facility with happy patients and staff.

Yesterday I took a class at Paper Vineyard with Tina. She taught an altered 6x6 canvas frame. We used alot of techniques on the frame and I am happy with how mine turned out. To make the day even better PV was having a sale. Oh ya more paper!! We all just know how paper deprived I am:) It was a good day. Jean took the classroom photos thanks Jean
My cover. I changed it up a little and put family on the cover instead of the inside back page of the frame

Used the wedding pic of my parents

Colleen and I in the class

Journal cover for the online journal class. I am just getting started but have enjoyed the step outs, downloads and actually making my journal.

1st completed page

Every week I have an ongoing challenge with myself to seek out at least 1 new thing at Trader Joe's to try. Well this week there are 2 new things. 1st= These are called Saturn peaches. I have never seen them before so I bought a few home to try. They are sweet and juicy. Really good. I will be looking for more of these. (They are sweeter than regular peaches, with a hint of almond, flat and are also called donut or saucer peaches. They have a white flesh. from online sources I looked up)

and #2= the salad I sampled at Trader Joe's today. Unlikely combination but it was so light cool and refreshing. Watermelon, wild arugula, fresh mozzarella, candied walnuts and balsamic vinaigrette. Yum yum yum

here is the salad

My absolute surpasses my cravings for Reece's Peanut Butter Cups is the new pretzel M&M's I finally found them and oh my oh my they are so good

And finally, I am hooked on this trilogy by Steig Larsson. Love that I could download all 3 to my Kindle. My son-in-law John was telling me how good they were. So far book one and he is right!

Sitting On the Fence

2010-06-24T12:35:00.000-07:00

I have been admiring many of the Art Journals that fellow bloggers have been creating. I so wanted to do one but..... I never took the leap to actually sign up for an online course. Today is the day!! I am in awe of Maija's journals and the classes she is taking from Hope. So I climbed off the fence, put my insecurities and I can't do this aside and signed up for her online course. I am excited to get going and delve in. Let's see how I do. Thanks Maija for the inspiration

Celebrating Father's day

2010-06-20T16:07:00.001-07:00

Today is about celebrating the Fathers in our families. I count myself very lucky to have a wonderful, caring and supportive Father. I am just as blessed to have a son-in-law that has taken on the responsibility of a ready made family. From day 1 he has bonded, guided and loved Jennifer's children, my grandchildren. John has been more of a Father to them than their biological father every will. So today we honored John. Where better to celebrate than at the Cornish Pasty. This is rapidly growing to be a family favorite. If only we could convince TJ to drive down and join us!!!
So, as usual we had too much food but lots of good conversations and laughter.
It was way way too hot to eat on the patio so we elected to eat indoors sitting in the church pews. Almost ha ha like being in church this Sunday am.

Sadera, John and Anthony

New to me beer, Tangerine Wheat Beer. Not for everyone but it was ice cold and refreshing and went well with the food

Jennifer's sausage salad. Oh my it was good!!!!

My pesto chicken with artichoke hearts

Fries with roasted garlic. Our newest have to have

And then there was dessert "Shirley Temple Pudding" decadent, scrumptious and I am sure absolutely no calories. We split 2 of these between the 5 of us but I could literally eat one myself. It is a gingerbread type cake with toffee in the middle and cream to pour over it while it is piping hot. Oh so good.

Believe me I wanted nothing more than to come home and nap! Instead I worked on my pool. Again hot out there. Water in the pool is already warm and not the most cooling.
And finally my tomato continues to grow I think I have found 3 more blossoms. I will be a regular tomato farmer here soon NOT!!!

Happy Father's Day

2010-06-19T23:59:00.000-07:00

Today is a day to honor our Fathers. For me my Dad has been the rock I leaned on growing up. Dad imparted his values, ethics, honesty. He taught all of us the importance of family. Although I can't be there to celebrate with you today Dad, you are inn my thoughts. Talk soon. Love you

Sunday Ramblings in Pics

2010-06-13T15:49:00.000-07:00

It is Sunday and another weekend is winding down. A rest full, quiet weekend. The weather was a bit cooler and that was nice. I was able to get more yard work done namely raking raking raking. I raked, the wind blew and I raked. Kind of my mantra for the past couple of days. It seems like monsoons to me, but according to the experts it is not. Big clouds very strong winds and dust and sand filling the pool and the house. Nope not monsoons.

My tomato plant growing upside down now has a tomato. Yeah!!!

I was at Mystic Paper yesterday and scored new to me Pink Paislee and October Afternoon papers. Been busy doing a few layouts. It has been a log time since I scrapped layouts. Took me a long time to complete this one

While at Mystic I spied the Big Shot and couldn't resist the deal offered. I purchased it and brought home another tool!! Now I no longer need to hold Colleen's hostage as I have my own.

And lastly my Grand Daughter is turning into DUCT TAPE QUEEN. She is making messenger bags, billfolds and other things out of duct tape. Having a ball designing and completing these projects.

So tomorrow it is back to work for me another busy week ahead.
Hope you all had a weekend filled with fun and rest

SHE/HE and a mess

2010-06-11T15:58:00.000-07:00

My goodness another week has flown by. I was able to take today off and it has been PJ's all day for me. A quiet artsy day listening to one of my favorite CD's" Il Divo"

My swaps for Kim's July event are done and in the mail. This will be another wonderful, full of surprises, great classes and catching up with friends in July. Kim's events are the very best and I can't wait to attend.

The weather here is cloudy,windy and plain miserable on the allergies so a perfect excuse for me to continue to be a house hermit, and so I worked on completing with unfinished projects.
I just finished putting together Carol Wingert's last 2 kits that I had ordered. Both were challenging and I am so glad that I had ordered both kits. I had a lot of printed pictures of my parents and their parents laying in a drawer. I was able to get alot of them in these two albums. What a sense of accomplishment to complete these two. Now it is back to finishing up more of Carol's kits that are partially done and other class projects I hadn't quite finished.

The "SHE" album cover.

One of the finished page sets

Another couple of pages.

This is the second kit the "HE" album. I really enjoyed the construction of this mini book as it was a double accordion album. Challenging but I was able to figure it out. It is done and even has the pictures in it. I do need to journal and add tags to the photos so well guess it is not done done.

The cover

The front layouts

The back accordion layouts

And here is the mess that I need to clean up before starting anything else.

A good day it has been

Winding Down The Weekend

2010-06-05T09:30:00.000-07:00

Welcome to hot sunny Arizona. The weather has decided it is summer so we are in our 100 degree +++ days. I turned into an inside homebody this weekend. Just didn't feel like getting out there in that heat. I did have to make a Trader Joe's run today and am sure glad I did. Lots of yummy fruits and vegetables to be bought. and boy did I buy them. Now I have to eat them all!

I am still struggling getting into this 3 hour diet. I have to say it works well when I follow it but eating every 3 hours is so so not me. Breakfast is a hard one . I made up a big pot of Organic Steel Cut oatmeal and am having that with blueberries every morning. My snacks not a problem. I am a good snacker. Lunches big problem as we usually don't eat lunch except on Thursdays which is Taco day. So again I pre-planned and have lunches all fixed for the week. Hoping it is a better week for this diet.
Steel cut oatmeal and fruit.

While at Trader Joe's I spied the heirloom tomatoes and potatoes. I picked up the tomatoes and am so glad I did.
So lunch was mini pitas, sliced heirloom tomato and tomato basil humus yum yum yum

Added this sweet stained glass hummingbird to the patio. He is a gift from my SW at the unit. Brightens up the dull patio

Another vine getting ready to bloom. This one has the tiniest yellow flowers

My hibiscus yesterday ready to bloom

Full bloom today.

Tomato plant still hanging in there

Memorial Day I went over to Jenn's for a BBQ. John and Anthony did the grilling and it was delicious. The chicken and fish burgers were really tasty. Humus, beet tortilla chips and rice krispie bars and my favorite pretzel M&M's. We had a great meal and were able to catch up on all the happenings.

So that is my weekends and it is back to work for me tomorrow. At least I won't be a day off this week. Last week was challenging as I was always a day off:)

2010-05-29T09:11:00.000-07:00

As Jean so sweetly reminded me last evening it has been a long time since my last post. And here it is Memorial Day Weekend already. Looks like this summer is going to be gone in a blink of an eye.
It has been so windy here that it has been hard to be out working on my yard. and believe me it needs work. Lots of landscaping, planting still to be done,but I seem to be raking up wind blown debris more than anything else. Some of my plants are in bloom and I am so enjoying their sweet colors against an otherwise brown brown landscape.

I guess my biggest or latest news is I finally decided a new car was in order. I have been enjoying the no car payment thing for a few years but it was time to let the jeep go and find a reliable source of transportation. I am loving my new choice the Ford Escape. I especially like the security of the navigational system although "she" can be quite annoying when I fail to follow her instructions to the T. I also have hands free phone and although it was set up once somehow it isn't finding my phone so it is back to the owners manual to see what wrong button I pushed. The satellite radio is awesome.

Family minus Uncle TJ lunch last weekend.

And finally my soap nuts finally came in so it is lots of laundry for me this weekend.

Wishing everyone a safe Memorial weekend as we remember our troops and families

Happy Birthday TJ

2010-05-16T00:01:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday TJ.When I think back to your birth the things that stand out the most is you were the easiest delivery. You were the most laid back easy baby. You very rarely cried you were happy and giggled and laughed so much. You were slow to talk but you were so busy dismanteling my cupboard doors, radios and anything else you could find, that you had no time to talk!
You make me so proud as you are the best son, a great brother to Jenn and a wonderful Uncle to Sadera and Anthony.
We love you have a great day today.