myhomesanctuary

Blue Monday March 21

2011-03-21T13:15:00.001-07:00

Random/Favorite Blue

2011-02-20T19:53:00.001-08:00

sharin a little random and favorite blue photos. To start . . .

A favorite...his 1st bday....looking forward to the 3rd bday in May....wonder if there will be any Blue?

Waiting for these because they mean Spring!

Just think these are cute and Blue! Thanks for coming by. Have you already been to Sally's? No? Well Click here and go by and check out more Blue!

Random/Favorite Blue

2011-02-20T19:53:00.000-08:00

2011-02-13T14:35:00.000-08:00

Mosaic Monday

2011-02-05T14:14:00.000-08:00

My husband teaches Drivers Ed. these are a few images he had on his computer. I thought they were fun. . .

Blue Monday on Saturday

2011-02-05T13:57:00.000-08:00

Posting my Blue Monday photo's on Saturday in case I don't get to use a computer on Monday.
Loved some of these Country Living and Good Housekeeping images.
Enjoy . . .

Blue Monday

2011-01-31T06:14:00.000-08:00

I am Blue today. Photo found on Yahoo story yesterday warning of a winter weather advisory. I want to go back to my photo the other day that showed spring!
So today I am Blue.
And, I am kinda Blue for another reason. My computer crashed yesterday. Don't know when I'll get another one. It was the computer
we use for our ministry.
We were setting up for church yesterday morning and it just crashed. We had a computer guy look at it and he said it is a goner.
So I am really, really Blue today. Would you say a prayer for us. I need a new computer by Thursday so my drama team can practise for a performance next week. For more info. about our ministry check out our blog. Click here.
Sally has lots of Happier Blue posts today click here to visit.

Things to do on a Sunny Saturday Afternoon

2011-01-29T10:01:00.000-08:00

I thought about things like I am doing today: laundry, cleaning the house, posting.
But then I thought this is supposed to be my fun blog. The place where I write about fun things and the place where sometimes I write about dreams. Here's a few dreamy things to do on a Sunny Saturday afternoon.
BTW all the photos were found through Google Images...none are my own!

I am hoping your getting to spend this beautiful afternoon with your husband doing something fun! If you are come by my other blog on Tuesday and check out my month long event!

Here's some info...

I did this last year and it was so fun I wanted to do it again this year with some changes. I am asking you guys to leave comments on my blog about what you and your man do for "Date Night". It doesn't have to be on a Friday. It doesn't have to be at night. Just give me ideas of great ways to spend quality time with your man.

Go over here to My Journey Back and click the Friday Date Night button on the sidebar and leave a comment on the Date Night Post. Or, if you don't have enough time to look around for the right place to comment. That's o.k. just leave one on any post that works too! Let's all get together and come up with some great ideas! And, share them with each other!

The Beginning Reader's Bible--Reviw

2011-01-28T13:03:00.000-08:00

I can't wait till my grandson is old enough to read to and then to read this on his own!

The darling cover illustration is the invitation to more wonderful stories from the Old and New Testament.

In addtion to the Old and New Testament stories is a section titled: Resources to Guide Your Children... a few of the included resources are The Ten Commandments, The 23 Psalm, The Lord's Prayer Songs about Jesus and a Prayer of Salvation.

The back cover explains a little more of the features:

"Remember God's Word" memory verses for every story, so kids can hide Scripture in their hearts

"Do God's Word" fun activities to help kids learn to live the Word

Pray God's Word short, meaningful prayers that teach boys and girls how to communicate with God

Only one negative that I have to say is I think maybe the title is a little bit confusing. I think a better tittle would have been A Young Reader's Bible. Because, I was thinking Kindergarten, 1st grade age. But, I think it is really more geared to 2 or 3rd graders maybe even 4th graders. The font is a little small I think for a beginning reader.

Would this particular negative (in my opinion) keep me from purchasing this book. Absolutely not. I think it is wonderfully put together and recommend it for anyone. It would make a great Valentines Day present for your child.

I also think that it is a good value. You can purchase at Christian Book (dot)com

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

I got stuck in this book! The Search

2011-01-25T16:06:00.001-08:00

Thanks for stopping in. Read any good books lately. I have one to share with you . . . .

Great story. I really enjoyed this one. It is book 3 in series. But you don't have to read the other two. They all stand alone and each one draws you in and you want to stay in Lancaster County awhile. That's what happened to me. Not convinced? Watch the trailer . . .

Here's the synopsis from the back cover. . . Fifteen years ago, Lainey O'Toole made a split-second decision. She couldn't have known that her choice would impact so many. Now in her mid-twenties, she is poised to go to culinary school when her car breaks down in Stoney Ridge, the very Amish town in which her long-reaching decision was made, forcing her to face the shadowed past.
Bess Reihl is less than thrilled to be spending the summer at Rose Hill Farm with her large and intimidating grandmother, Bertha. It quickly becomes clear that she is there to work the farm--and work hard. The labor is made slightly more tolerable by the time it affords Bess to spend with the handsome hired hand, Billy Lapp. But he only has eyes for a flirty and curvaceous older girl.
Lainey's and Bess's worlds are about to collide and the secrets that come to light will shock them both.
"Beautifully written, 'The Search' is a skillfully woven story that takes readers through unexpected twists and turns on the long country road toward truth. Fans both old and new will find themselves immersed in this heartwarming--and surprising--tale of young love, forgiveness, and coming to grips with the past."

I have to agree it is beautifully written. The are twists and turns in the story that surprise and keep you interested. For this reader I am drawn into the story and wanting more. I was happy and pleased with the ending but I wanted more! I said the same thing about the other two books.

I checked to see where you can buy it. Here's a few options . . . .Amazon, Borders and Christian Book (dot)com

And, there is also a giveway going on to celebrate this one!

Click here to enter. Here's a link to the authors blog for more info. about The Search and her other books.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from LitFuse as part of their bloggers review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

Love Food & Live Well a Book Review

2011-01-24T16:08:00.001-08:00

For this reader the author had me at the title! Love Food & Live Well . . . Yes!
This was my first introduction to Chantel Hobbs. But, after reading this book I want to read her first.
This book was filled with personal stories. It is humerous from the first chapter to the last. Mrs. Hobbs shares her journey with God and encourages the reader to . . .
'Grab hold of the hand of God. No matter how many times you have let go in the past, tightly hold on to it today. Feel His grip. He wants you to know you don't ever need to let go again. With Him, the liberty to love food is yours.'
These are words I needed to hear!

From the back cover:
Go ahead. Get passionate about the food you eat. You don’t have to hide it. You can love food and lose weight at the same time! The secret, which you’ll learn about in Love Food and Live Well, is to know when to have carrot cake and when it’s time for just a carrot. For most dieters, food is the daunting factor that trips up our best intentions to lose weight and get fit. Let Chantel Hobbs teach you that food is not the enemy! It’s our attitudes toward it that defeat us. Losing weight does not require being deprived of the foods you love and being forced to eat boring, tasteless meals, and left feeling hungry most of the time. Turn food into your ally by following Chantel’s 80/20 rule: A full 20 percent of the time, splurge on the foods you love and incorporate them into celebrations and social occasions. The remaining 80 percent of the time, choose food on the basis of delivering maximum fuel for your body and ultimate health. Simply by having freedom in what you eat, you can train yourself in self discipline and achieve sustainable weight loss, being free from food anxiety. Using personal inventories, original recipes, food plans, and new, detailed exercises for strength training and aerobic fitness, Chantel will inspire you to live well in every area of life. What are you waiting for? Start the pursuit of a life lived well and healthy: body, mind, and spirit.

Here's a link so you can read the first chapter: Click Here.

About the author:
Chantel Hobbs is a life coach, marathon runner, personal trainer, wife, and mother of four. Her amazing story of losing two hundred pounds and keeping the weight off has been featured on Oprah, The Today Show, Good Morning America, Fox & Friends, Life Today with James Robison, The 700 Club, and Focus on the Family Radio—and in People and First magazines. Hobbs hosts a weekly radio show and is the on-air fitness expert on the WAY-FM radio network. She is also a regular guest on the KLOVE radio network. Hobbs is a frequent speaker to women’s groups and makes personal appearances at fitness conventions. The developer of The One-Day Way Learning System and the author of four books, including Never Say Diet and The One-Day Way, Chantel lives with her family in south Florida.

Authors site: Click here

Product Information:
List Price: $19.99
Hardcover: 240 page
Publisher: WaterBrook Press 1 edition (December 14, 2010)
ISBN-10: 0307457842ISBN-13: 978-0307457844

Available at: Amazon and Christian Book (dot)com

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from B&B Media as part of their book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

Thanks for visiting!

Blue Monday Varooooooom

2011-01-23T19:04:00.000-08:00

My Cowboy watched Barrett Jackson all weekend and dreamed Hot Rods.
Here's a few he would love to have and a couple of ours. Enjoy!

Dreamy ride for a guys . . .
Reminds me of high school . . .

If you can't have a four legged one. Why not 4 wheel's.

One more hot rod. And next a favorite shot.

Yes the go cart is blue. The driver is pretending! And last . . .

I had to add this one! This was our ministries first project car. The boys built the engine. We took it to shows for 2 years before we had to sell it.

Our next project is 72 camero. But I won't be able to show it here because it isn't Blue.

Thanks for stopping by don't forget to stop over at Sally's and see more Blue posts!

It's Saturday hmmm What Should I do Today . . .

2011-01-22T15:10:00.000-08:00

Let's see . . . Maybe a little house cleaning.

Or maybe go for a ride? That's sounds like fun!

Or maybe spend some time getting some work done. Nope don't think so.

Or maybe get caught up on some reading

So what do you think. What cha' doin today?

So What Would Your Table Say?

2011-01-20T08:06:00.000-08:00

So, do you ever wonder if your dining room table could talk what it would say?

Crazy idea. But . . .

. . . stop and think about it?

How many family dinners have been set at your table?

Today I am sharing two dining room tables and tablescapes . . .

This one set simply with paper plates, plastic ware and paper napkins

Does it make you wonder the story behind it?

Click Here to read the story.

And, here's another (story included)

This simple little spread was my grandsons 2nd birthday party. Cupcakes, PB&J, Quesadilla's and juice boxs for the kids. And some munchy food for the adults.

The table that you can't see here has many, many stories to tell.

Our family stories and many, many stories from before we acquired the table. It is an amazing old table we bought many, many years ago at an antique auction. We have never seen another table like it. It has two leaves that are stored inside. To put the leaves in you have to crank the table. It has really fat carved legs that have tiny wheels on the bottom. As you crank it open or closed the little wheels move it across the floor.

This table has been in our family a long time. There are many stories. And if you look closely at the top it was well used. It is in bad need of refinishing. Something I always wished I could do. But, I no longer own this treasure. It has moved on. But, I still get to see it. I still get to sit at it occassionally and probably I'll be taking many more photo's. You see my daughter managed to talk me out of it! It now sits in their little kitchen. And each night her little family sits around it.

Wow I wonder what sweet stories it could tell now?

So what stories will your table tell?

Wanna see some amazing tablescapes? Go over at visit Mary for Tablescape Thursday. Click here.

White Wednesday #1 2011

2011-01-19T15:38:00.000-08:00

Welcome to my first White Wednesday post of 2011! This year I made the commitment to myself and you to make it a priority to post everyday. My poor house over here seemed to get so dusty and neglected in 2010.

Today I am dusting off a photo that I have posted before. But it has been a loooooooong time and so I figured it would look new to you. This is a favorite of mine and it is all chippy and white!

I love this little vignette I put together. The black lines you see are places where the white paint chipped away. My attempt at making a pine chiferobe (sp?) chippy white. Since then I have found some great tutorials and when I get this piece back out of storage I am going to try and redo it. The urn isn't old but I think it fits the chippy category.

And a few other white things. Not really chippy. I hope you don't mind. Just some of my favorites.

Of course always a horse. I have collected snow photo's for my other blog. And there always has to be a horse. This is a photo I found on the web.

Another google found photo. I think it was from Birds and Bloom magazine.

One I chose because it is so pretty to look at! You guys know I am from Texas! This is an image I only enjoy looking at from a far. Or maybe possibly from a chair that happens to be sitting by a blazing fire. And, I would holding a steaming mug of something!

And lastly a little snow covered mailbox to remind you to let me know you stopped in!

Come by tomorrow because I promise there will be a Tablescape here!

BTW you can find more chippy white posts over here. And if you go over to my other blog you can see how I used the snow photos. Click here.

On The Lookout For

2011-01-18T10:44:00.000-08:00

. . . For something to write about. But I have some help in my search.

And we left you something to enjoy while we look . . .

. . . The light is on.

We left a few books for you to enjoy.

And some cake in case you get hungry. And here's you . . .

Some place to sit and enjoy the sunshine! And just in case your interested I did write a post over here already. Go over to My Journey Back and visit. But finish your cake first!

Mosaic Monday Got Mail?

2011-01-17T11:08:00.000-08:00

Psst. . . I gotta secret. Just because there isn't any mail today doesn't mean your mailbox is empty!

There just might be something really cute inside!

For more Mosaics go over here!

Happy Homemaker Monday

2011-01-17T09:58:00.001-08:00

Welcome to Happy Homemaker Monday. . . it looks like blogger isn't going to let me load photo's but here's my post anyway. You can join Sandra over at Family Corner!
The weather in my neck of the woods: Drizzle rain off and on. But much warmer! Yea! The sun is out!

Things that make me happy:
The opposite of Sandra’s when my fridge is empty because it is so clean. And free of leftovers that we never eat! But I really do love it when the pantry is full and the fridge and freezer are full. It is so much easier to make meals.

Book I'm reading:Passport Through Darkness by Kimberly Smith (for review)

What's on my TV today Video:
And old favorite with some amazing photo’s.

On the menu for dinner:
Something simple still thinking on it. I have meat in the freezer but not much of anything else!

On my To Do List:
Finishing Laundry. Giving both bathrooms a good scrubbing. Vacuuming. (that’s what I said last week! LOL. Broken record I am!

New Recipe I tried or want to try soon:
My sweet friend Melanie answered my call for comfort food recipes. Here’s the link to her Chicken and Dumplings.

In the craft basket:
Maybe I should change this one too! I am so borrowing. Or maybe I should list the craft things I want to do? No there’s an idea!

Looking forward to this week:
My drama team performs tonight then Thursday is practise and we are having pizza.

Tips and Tricks:
I don’t always do this but it helps me to have a template of HHM in a word document. Then during the week I can fill in some of it. Like favorite blog posts or new blog. It helps me then I don’t forget where I found stuff.

My favorite blog post this week:
Is over at Sweet Cottage Dreams.
Loved this one because I loved the photo. I want to post it over at My Journey Back waiting for the photographer to give me an o.k. Go over and check it out.

Blog Hopping (a new discovered blog you would like to share with the readers):
Sweet Bee Cottage . . .
“Things are always buzzin' around the cottage. Worker Bee, Baby Bee, and I welcome your visit. I'd be happy to make you a latte if you can stay awhile.....”

No words needed (favorite photo or picture, yours or others you want to share):

Lesson learned the past few days:
That I am way too busy. I need to be more organized. I have too many random things to do. I need things scheduled. I am a scheduler at heart.

On my mind:
The above.

Devotionals, Scripture Reading, Key Verses:
Give me understanding, and I will keep your law and obey it with all my heart. Direct me in the path of your commands for there I find delight. Psalm 119:34

Blue Ribbons on Monday

2011-01-17T08:36:00.000-08:00

Updated Monday night . . . disclaimer:All the images below were found at google images except the very last one of my daughter and horse.

Welcome to Blue Monday hosted by the always Smiling Sally today I have a few lovely images.

Enjoy

I wish this image was larger. Isn't it just beautiful.

Because my daughter just started working at her dream job. I was thinking about how she got there and the steps it took for her.

Here's a couple of images that reminded me of her journey . . .

An image from the web.

Another web image . . .

And another image from the web. The best for last!

The above images of the ribbons were found on the web. She does have a bunch of blue ribbongs I just don't have any digital photo's of them!

One of the last photo of my daughter with her horse Buck. He was an amazing horse! And the two of them won lots of Blue ribbons!(sorry no digital photo's)

Thanks for stopping in! Go by and see Smiling Sally and visit the other Blue photo's. (Click Here to visit Sally today) and visit my mosaic monday post too! (Click Here) There happens to be just a little blue there too!

Mosaic Monday

2011-01-09T14:08:00.001-08:00

Welcome to Mosaic Monday. One of my favorite things to do is to look at houses. The outsides and the insides. I love decorating as most of you guys do. But I also love architecture. I love interesting buildings and structures. For Blue Monday I decided to take a virtual Blue tour and here's what I came up with. I pulled them all together in a mosaic for you.
Maybe if your snowed in these lovely sunny photo's will warm you day and make you
smile.

My Mission Monday post is over here come by for a visit. And go and visit the other Mosaic Monday posts.

Blue Monday

2011-01-09T13:20:00.000-08:00

Welcome to my first Blue Monday of 2011. I am sorry I have been a way I haven't been able to find anything blue to post so I took matters into my own hands and made something Blue for you!

Aren't you impressed! I was. I really didn't make I just wanted to get you interested.

I have actually no real reason other than life happens and I have just been busy. I did get a chance to do some virtual touring and found some really pretty blue things.

Well actually I think there are those that would correct me and say these are 'ladies.'

I have to agree. What a lovely.

Another amazing paint job! Found when I searched Blue Row Houses.

And this more of a New Mexican look. I love the lighter blue steps.

And lastly something very modern.

I have no idea where these are. Actually I wouldn't be surprised to find them in Dallas or Fort Worth. There is a crazy amount of apartment dwellings being constructed. Maybe I need to take a real drive and go on a photo safari. Wanna come along?

Well we will have to wait till spring though it is way to cold here. And we have predictions of snow. So why not go on over to Sally's for more Blue posts.

So what is the reason?

2010-12-20T17:24:00.000-08:00

2010-12-13T07:18:00.000-08:00

Welcome to Mosaic Monday hosted by Mary . . . Today here's a few images I found on the web that speak Christmas to me. Enjoy!

Merry Christmas

A Rush of Wings--Book Review

2010-12-10T15:59:00.001-08:00

Welcome to my first book review post here at My Home Sanctuary. Since it is my first post I chose one of my favorites from the last few weeks.

This is the second book I have been able to read by this author. And when I was offered this book I jumped on it. I am becoming a fan of Ms. Heitzmann! I think you will too.

It is categorized as Christian Fiction but I would have to add there is a little suspense and romance in it which made it even more interesting for me. This book was easy to read for me possibly because these categories are really my favorites!

From the first few lines I was drawn into the story which begins with Noelle St. Claire about to get on a bus. She is scraed and frightened and she isn't really sure why which leaves the reader interested in what is going on.

As the story unfolds she ends up in a Colorado mountain town and finds a room at a dude ranch.

Here's the info. from the back cover: Though her panic is real, Noelle St. Claire is uncertain what danger she is fleeing. Fragmented images and slivers of memory have driven her to abandon her wealthy, sheltered life in New York for the hope of a haven—remote and safe.Noelle's arrival at the Rocky Mountain horse ranch owned by Rick Spencer and his brother Morgan causes more than a little stir. Beautiful, vulnerable, yet strangely secretive, Noelle is an enigma the two contrasting brothers seek to unlock. But as their attentions breach the wall she hides behind, the past becomes a menacing threat from which Noelle can no longer hide.

Miss Heitzmann did a great job of developing each of the characters. I was left wondering about some of them and I look forward to reading the sequel.

I was also pleased with the way Noelle's character jaded as she was from the earlier events in her life that she was able to get past them and reach out to God.

I would recommend this book for almost any reader. A late teenager would enjoy it as well as an adult. It would make a great Christmas present for the avid romance reader! There's still time to go over to Amazon and order one for Christmas or you can get it at Barnes & Noble.

Here's the product information
Price:$14.99
ISBN:978-0-7642-0845-4
Dimensions: 5.5 x 8.5
Number of pages: 382
Publication Date:Oct. 10
Formats: Paperback

Are You Busy?

2010-12-09T20:43:00.000-08:00

I don't know about you but it I am crazy busy right now. I just wanted to leave you with a little encouragement. Even while we're running around with the shopping, organizing and cleaning and visiting and playing Santa. Don't forget the real reason for the season. Here's a little reminder.

Merry Christmas

Oh My Gosh check this out!

2010-12-02T10:57:00.000-08:00

Isn't this the prettiest table! I love, love these dishes and guess what yep you guessed I know you did. The Inspired Nest is giving them away. Now I don't know if I really want you to go over there because I want to win. But, I have to share it with you to be nice. Plus it is one of the rules. Dang it! So go over here and check out the post and get your name in the hat!

Tablescape Thursday Thanksgiving

2010-12-02T09:52:00.001-08:00

I haven't gotten to join Tablescape Thursday in awhile. And, I think this one is the perfect one to come back with!
Here's the lovely table our daughter set . . .

I had to share this particular shot because of the addition of the guitar. You can see a few more photo's and captions over at My Journey Back.
Thanks for stopping in. Happy Table scaping! And for more great tables go over to the Between Naps on the Porch.

It's Such a Challenge ...Falling into Reading

2010-11-30T19:13:00.000-08:00

And it is a huge challenge for me because I just found this and the deadline is December 20th.
I have a list of books I have been wanting to get to. And so I decided to join up. Even though I am late. Here's my list . . .

I jumped on this offer. Sometimes I find myself not knowing what to post about. And so I need these challenges and meme's. But this book promises to solve problems and generate ideas. We'll see.

I love action and suspence. This one looks like a page turner!

Hmmm we'll see . . .

Another suspense, thriller I can't wait to get started on it!

And last this one promises to be a fast paced mystery. . .

And I have a few I have finished reading and I have to get some reviews written. I even had a plan to do them last weekend but my plans went down the drain when the internet acted up most of Friday and then Saturday afternoon and evening I got to spend with our daughter and grandbaby.

So here's my list of reviews to write and post this weekend. I hope you'll come by and check them out.

Me Myself and Paris by Ruth Yunker

A Rush of Wings by Kristen Heitzmann

A Higher Court by John Betcher

and my second cookbook review!!!! I can't wait for more cookbooks.

Kosher by Design Teens and 20 Somethings

Just to give you a hint you might as well go check these out why wait for my reviews. Get a jump on Christmas shopping and pick them up at Amazon.

So there's my list I want to follow up on all the Tuesday posts and questions that I missed for this challenge when I am taking a break from reading.

See you soon.

Blue Qilts 4 Blue Monday

2010-11-29T08:26:00.000-08:00

Welcome to Blue Monday . . . since it is getting a little colder outside and since some people are already posting snow photo's I thought I would share a few quilts to help you warm up today in Blue of course!

This was a personal favorite. It started with the light blue in the center section. You can't see it but it has tiny orange flowers. I found the brighter blue just about the time I found the orange and it all just started coming together. And the the stripe of course I think just topped it off! Loved this one!

Sometimes it is a litte of a challenge finding fabrics that go together but I think the little clouds worked perfectly with the Noah fabric. The tan matched the lions faces perfectly.

This one wasn't a favorite and it was a real challenge. I really don't like the dark navy but at the time I was under the gun and had to get some kits ready.

Kits? You ask... yes kits. Nope not for shop or a store class. But for a class of teen age girls from a Halfway House where we are volunteer chaplains.

And I bet your wondering why choosing fabrics was/is such a challenge? All the fabrics are donated! I never have to buy fabric. And it always seems that just the right donation comes along to pull some great looking quilts together!

And, even when they really aren't my favorite I know the babies and children that receive them are excited and really appreciate it! All of our quilts are donated to charities!

For more about the quilts and our ministry check out our ministry blog and the photo blog where more of th quilt photo's are archived.

And go over to Sally's to see more photo's in Blue.

Happy Homemaker Monday

2010-11-29T06:41:00.000-08:00

The weather in my neck of the woods:
Beautiful fall with lots of leaves on the ground. After a brief 24 hour cold snap it was just gorgeous over the weekend!

Things that make me happy:

This one is silly but here goes I love writing with colored gel pens. I especially enjoy writing in my prayer Journal and using a different color pen each time I write. Told you it was silly!
Book I'm reading:

Murder by anothe r name By:Jo Stone
I'm enjoying on TV:

Last night it was Sarah Palin's Alaska and Kate Plus 8 . . . probably the last 'real' watching I'll do all week.
On the menu for dinner:

Cowboy works tonight probably something simple that I can serve at 9pm.
On my To Do List:

For the ministry planning a Food Distribution fair for February.

For the family getting the tree up today, finishing laundry,checking out a Christmas light display I heard about on t.v. last night, finishing up rearranging the sewing room because I bought a day bed last week at a garage sale for our halfway house. Getting it tomorrow I hope
New Recipe I tried or want to try soon:
Ranchero Mexi-Chicken Crostada

In the craft basket:

Always a quilt in there. Want to work on some new aprons to maybe give a way in the New Year.

Looking forward to this week:

Starting Drama Team again and adding a choir to it. And posting more here.

Tips and Tricks:
Bible verse memory. I open a word document and type verse I am working on. Over and over. If it is a long verse I begin with just one section and type it 3-4 times until I remember it then add another section until I think I have the whole verse memorized.

Psalm 28:7 The Lord is my strength and my sheild.

My heart trusts in Him and I am helped.

My heart leaps for Joy and I will give thanks to Him in song.

My favorite blog post this week:

My Marathan Weekend of Book Reviews. The first review is here.
Blog Hopping (a new discovered blog you would like to share with the readers):
I love Tamara’s profile info…I am a wife of 19 years and a Homeschooling Mom, training the hearts of 5 beautiful daughters.
No words needed (favorite photo or picture, yours or others you want to share):

Lesson learned the past few days:
I strive to be the ‘mature’(because of my age) Titus woman but I realize I learn more from you younger girls. Read my post tomorrow for links to amazing ‘younger’ Titus women!
On my mind:
My blogging friend who isn’t posting. My drama team begins again on Wednesday. The boys I already recruited and two boys that I am praying about because of their motives.

Devotionals, Scripture Reading, Key Verses:
Psalm 28:7
The Lord is my strength and my shield
My heart trusts in Him and I am helped.

My heart leaps for Joy and I will give thanks to him in song.

Don't forget to stop over at Sandra's and join up for Happy Homemaker Monday!

Should I wear . . . Blue Denim?

2010-11-22T12:05:00.000-08:00

Welcome to Blue Denim day . . .
I was thinking of wearing jeans and so I thought I would google Denim.
Here's a little of what I found.
Too cute. I googled baby in denim overalls. Loved this one.
Looks like these need a little attention!

Fun Eaude Toulette!

Wonder if this one has any money in it!

Did I really wear denim today? Nope but I thought it would be fun to pretend so I would have something to share with Sally over at Blue Monday!

And I thought I would put a few together and share over at Mosaic Monday too.

Photo credit: All images were found on google images

I was feeling a little Blue

2010-11-15T09:37:00.001-08:00

I was feeling a little Blue and then I read this book. (Click here for my review.)

And I realized Dorothy loves blue dresses.

And Toto has a cute Blue blanket in his basket.

And the sky is so Blue.

Are you feeling Blue today too? Maybe it is because it is Blue Monday. Maybe this will cheer you.

If your thinking of the holidays and stressing out over all the cleaning and planning go over and check out this blog. There are some great suggestions.

Or go over and see Sally she will make you smile.

Happy on Monday

2010-11-15T06:48:00.000-08:00

Hosted by Sandra at Family Corner

The weather in my neck of the woods:
Lovely fall weather. A bit nippy in the morning but lovely afternoons. Lot's of leaves on the ground.

Things that make me happy:
Nothing. Actually having nothing on my list and nothing to do but nothing!

Book I'm reading:
For review: Amy Inspired by Bethany Pierce

What's on my TV today:
Cowboy works tonight so I'll have the remote. Last night we watched Sarah Palin's Alaska on TLC

On the menu for dinner:
Gumbo in the crock pot. Perfect for late dinners. Leaves me time to play while I am alone in the house.

On my To Do List:
Finishing the book I am reading so I can get a review posted this week over at
My Journey Back.

New Recipe I tried or want to try soon:
Southwest Rotisserie Wraps from Kosher by Design Teens and 20-somethings
Here's a link for a review with the recipe. (I'll have a copy to give away come back for my review)

In the craft basket:
A quilt made from the grandbabies onesies

Looking forward to this week:
I am a week ahead but I am looking forward to cooking next Wednesday at my daughters.

Tips and Tricks:
Save your babies onesies and bibs from his/her first year and make a quilt.

My favorite blog post this week:
Loved the burlap tree tutorial over at Shabby 2 Chic

Blog Hopping (a new discovered blog you would like to share with the readers):
I am lovin' Shabby 2 Chic
No words needed (favorite photo or picture, yours or others you want to share:

Lesson learned the past few days:

Sometimes no matter how hard you try you just can't please some people. And, everyone has crazy families. I am tryin' to ignore the craziness this holiday season and just focus on the good.

On my mind:

A blogging friend who is ill and been off-line for a few days.

Devotionals, Scripture Reading, Key Verse:

"My child, don't make light of the Lord's discipline, and don't give up when he corrects you. For the Lord disciplines those he loves, and he punishes each one he accepts as his child." Hebrews 12:5-6.

Happy Homemaker Monday Night

2010-11-01T17:37:00.001-07:00

Happy Homemaker Monday is hosted by Sandra at Family Corner

The weather in my neck of the woods:We are being blessed with wonderful fall weather. Kind of hot but beautiful.Things that make me happy: Listening to water fountains

Book I'm reading:Romance Novels reviews beginning tomorrow.

What's on my TV today: Football (writing this on Sunday) On the menu for dinner:
Stuffed pork chops, augratin potatoes and green beans
On my To Do List:Slowing down and Finishing laundry
New Recipe I tried or want to try soon:from new 20 something cookbook
In the craft basket:
When I get my sewing room back in order. Aprons and quilts
Looking forward to this week:hmmm….Always look forward to Wednesdays and Sundays

Tips and Tricks:I need some from ya’ll how do you organize photo’s for your blog.

My favorite blog post this week: my post here . . . a book review and give a way

Blog Hopping (a new discovered blog you would like to share with the readers): 100 days to Christmas

No words needed (favorite photo or picture, yours or others you want to share):

Lesson learned the past few days: There's really only one person you can truly count on no matter what. Well actually three.
On my mind:
A friend who is over her head in her job.
Travis and James (youth we work with)
Devotionals, Scripture Reading, Key Verses:We loved you so much that we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as well . . . 1 Thessalonians 2:8
For God so loved the world that he gave his only son that whoever believes in Him will not perish but have everlasting life. John 3:16

Mosaic Monday

2010-11-01T17:26:00.000-07:00

Sharing today a collage I made last year. You can go here to read the post. Just a few photo's I found that spoke fall to me and shared some of my favorite things.
Thanks for visiting and go over and visit Mary at Dear Little Red House for more mosaics.

The Greaat Pumpkin!

2010-10-31T17:12:00.000-07:00

I loved the flat pumpkin. Looked just perfect to sit on!
What a fun day at the pumpkin patch!
We can't wait to go back to the farm to see the babies in the spring!

Happy Homemaker Memories . . .

2010-10-18T07:12:00.000-07:00

Welcome to Happy Homemaker Monday hosted by Sandra. Today I am a little short on time so I am posting without Sandra's template. Let's see how many topics I remember.

The weather in my neck of the woods: Cooler mornings, warm afternoons and cooler evenings. Fall is in the air and leaves are showing up around my door.

Things that make me happy: Holidays everything about them. The planning, the cooking, the shopping, the people! I am just smiling!

Book I'm reading: Finished all my review books at least for today and reading a novel donated to the girls halfway house called Tangerine by Marilynn Griffith. It's a page turner.

On the t.v.: As always nothing.

What am I cooking for dinner: Not really sure we need to do a major grocery shopping. Have no idea when that will happen. But I have shrimp in the freezer and chicken. Maybe tortilla soup if I can stop and get a ripe avocado. Yum.

On my to do list: laundry, finishing up unpacking boxes brought home from storage and moving things around in my 'small space'.

New recipe I want to try: The photo's speaks for it.

I found this at Monica's it is from Taste of Home. These are called apple nacho's I am planning on making them for a Fall party for our apartment ministry.

In the craft basket: Aprons to finish once I un-bury the sewing machine, a quilt to finish binding only have about 12 inches to go might get that done quicker.

Looking forward to this week: I always look forward to Tatooed Hearts and Sunday Worship. I love my boys.

Tips and Tricks: Just figured one out. My memory isn't what it used to be. I didn't get past the weather. So I opened a new window and put up Sandra's last post. Now I am going back and forth between windows reading her topic questions then typing them in my post. It's working for me today! FYI be sure and save every few minutes just in case!

Favorite Post and New blog: I found a great craft project over at Tator tots and Jello it's a really cute blog too. The post is a tutorial showing how to make black spiders out of beads.
I loved it I am going to make some for our apartment Trick or Treat event.

No words needed photo:

Don't forget to help Stamp out Hunger donate to a food drive in your community.

Lessons I learned this week: I have words from The Word hidden in my heart. Some forgotten. I need to work at memorizing scripture. When I was helping the boys last Wednesday they were working on verses I should have been able to recite too. Need some practise!

On my mind: Working on calendar for apartment ministry and finding time for required activities around our ministry and holiday activities.

Scripture or Devotional: We loved You so much that we are delighted to share with You not only the gospel but our lives as well. 1 Thessalonians 2:8 (paraphrased)

Beyond the Brady Bunch

2010-10-16T12:24:00.001-07:00

Beyond the Brady Bunch Hope & Help for Blended Families by Ray & Debbie Alsdorf
I enjoyed this book. I have never experienced the trauma of divorce or the struggles of blending a family but I have had many friends that have been through both.

I wish I had been able to share with them some of the truths brought out in this book.

Blending a family is far more messy and complicated than any television show portrays. Beyond the Brady Bunch is a heart book, not a how-to book. Christians who find themselves in the midst of step family life often feel hopeless and far from God, struggling with grief and unforgiveness. From personal experience, the authors have found that all the how-to steps in the world don’t work if there isn’t first a heart change. Speaking with honesty and vulnerability they share their mistakes and how God dealt with their hearts. The book will help stretch hearts, minds, and homes past the image of “perfect” and another "happily ever after” into the hope of God’s promise to restore, heal, and rebuild.

I really liked what Dr. Gary Smalley had to say about the book . . .

“This book is a treasure chest of encouragement, hope and inspiration for the blended family. It has been said that some families cannot blend, they can only collide. Not true. The Alsdorf family have “collided” well. They are the real deal and a beautiful picture of a fantastic blended family.” -Dr. Gary Smalley

It is indeed a treasure chest of encouragement. The book includes personal stories and stories the Alsdorf collecting from friends and other couples they have met through ministry.

Each chapter includes sound Biblical truth and each topic is discussed and then referenced back to scripture.

Toward the end the Alsdorf's even included a chapter titled From the other side our children speak where they interviewed their children and then included their perspectives.

I found an excerpt of Chapter One here. I would highly recommend this book. Even if you have not experienced divorce or death of a spouse you may know someone who has. This is a great book to give to a friend struggling with blending a family.

I am going to donate my copy to our apartment ministry library. I know that many families can benefit from the sound advice and encouragement found in Beyond the Brady Bunch.

You can purchase online at Amazon and Christian Book (dot)com

And also at Family Christian Book Stores. (click on the bold colored words to go directly to the links).

I received this book to review from B&B Media. Thanks to Karen Davis for offering this book.

I finally made a desperate phone call!

2010-10-12T18:47:00.000-07:00

Well actually I really didn't call but back in the day I would have. I actually just got up the nerve and drove down to a cheap $10.00 haircut place that is actually $13.00 for a cut and blow drying started at $10.00. Yes I said started at $10.00 at one of those cheap places!
Now if I had a lovely 'up do' like the one photo'd or if mine would do that then I would not have resorted to desperate measures.
But alas it was desperate measures I had to take. The jury is still out on whether I like my hair or not.
Mainly because I had made a huge mess in the bathroom this morning trying to find some barette's or pins or something because my bangs just weren't cooperating today.
And btw I was in a rush and didn't clean up the mess I made. Which I forgot to mention included all the electrical devices I own trying to find something that would work.
But, I did get two compliments today on my hair so I guess it turned out o.k.
And then when I came home and finally checked the computer I saw that Rachel Anne suggested cleaning up, straightening out and sorting through all our hair stuff. And so even thought I made a huge mess this morning I get to get points for cleaning it up.
And I really do need to sort through all that stuff anyway and figure out what I need to keep. Don't need all those hair scrungies anymore because there won't be any pony tails here again!

Cupcake Challenge Part Two

2010-10-08T18:54:00.001-07:00

Cupcake Challenge secret ingredient revealed.

I really wasn't sure how these would turn out but they are great. I am so pleased. I struggled with this all week trying to find a recipe and finally ended up adapting from the good 'ole Betty Crocker cookbook! You will have to look really, really close but inside the cupcakes are crushed Fruit Loops.

Like I said I searched for a recipe and found a great one that used orange, lemon and lime zest but I never got to the store for the fruit.

Now about myself and why I chose the secret ingredient.

Probably a lot of people would think I am a little Fruit Loops. My husband and I are volunteer chaplains at a prison for teen age boys and girls. (seperate facilities for each) In fact the cupcakes are going to the boys tomorrow and they will love them.
I tend to 'wing it' a lot with my cooking and baking and when I saw the Fruit Loops used on an episode of Chopped I knew I wanted to try it. On my budget many times I have to 'wing it' and make substitutions. The reason for the Fruit Loops. I happened to have them because I used them for a project for our 'apartment ministry' and I needed to figure out a way to use the rest of the box. Now I can share the recipe with my Mom's of Preschool group.
And, one of my favorite things to do is to take an item and re-purpose it. The fruit loops were perfect to try and re-purpose.
I love cake especially bakery and wedding cake. My icing is a buttery wedding cake recipe and it turned out perfect.

So that is about it for this little Fruit Loop girl. Please com back and visit next week Amy's challenge is our closets. Oh wow!

2010-10-08T18:18:00.000-07:00

Lovely Fall Scentsy Wickless Candle Giveaway! over at Proverbs 14 Verse 1 this is what June said about these wonderful Wickless Candles.
"Homemaking is a beautiful thing. It is so exciting to be able to go about your day and create a beautiful, peaceful home for each and every single one of our family members. I know that one of the ways that I personally love to do that is by creating an ambiance in the home. I will turn on some low classical music or hymns, turn on some glowing lights and maybe light a candle or two.
As keepers of the home, wives "set the stage" for comfort and hospitality. Fragrance is a big part of this, and a lot of us light scented candles. However, because of the safety factor we limit candle time. But now all that can change-- let me introduce you to Scentsy! Scentsy uses a light bulb to melt wax cubes in a small plate, making it much safer than an open flame. They also have 80 incredible scents from which to choose that makes a better selection than an air fresheners from the store!Safety is one of the major benefits of this product. No burning means no smoke in the air. The fragrant wax is chosen because it melts at a lower temperature and won't burn a child if they were to stick their hand in it. The warmer itself feels like a coffee mug when it is hot.
We got our warmer system kit in the mail and tried it out. I could not believe how wonderful they made my home smell! Fragrance is a powerful thing as it conjures up old memories and new--and with Scentsy you will be glad to know that these fragrances last a LONG time (even after you turn it off), and is much better than your average candle! The great news is that it is safer than candles and that is is important if you have lots of little ones like I do. I remember when I used to lament about not being able to use many candles but Scentsy really solves that dilemma. All you need to do is put a few blocks of wax on the top plate, turn it on and enjoy!
There are also small openings on the sides where the light can shine out of and reflect beautifully on the walls, the reflection on ours actually looked heart shaped. Our family likes to dim the light of the room to experience and enjoy the natural, calming ambiance that Scentsy creates.Scentsy also carries holiday warmers, fragrance foams, room sprays, do-it-yourself kit warmers, Scentsy bars and bricks, and my favorite-the Scentsy Buddy--a stuffed animal for children containing one of Scentsy scents packs inside!
Now, Toni Swayze, who is an Independent Consultant for Scentsy has generously offered a free warmer system to one of my readers! That's right---take a look:
This warmer is just beautiful and oh-so cozy for decorating your home just right in time for fall! It will also come with three amazing Scentsy bars--Maple Butter, Clarity and Eskimo Kiss that can be reused until the fragrance is gone. "

Click here to go by her blog and see the great photo's and check out the Scentsy website too.

Did you say cake? No I said . . .

2010-10-08T08:22:00.001-07:00

Cupcakes. Actually it was Amy that said cupcakes. And I am accepting her challenge.
I have pulled together my ingrediants . . .

Except for the secret ingredient that I am not sharing. Yet.

And I got . . .

a major tool. Isn't she pretty. (not actually mine but this was a pretty photo. I'll have to make one of my little cobalt blue girl). And I made a plan. And then. It happened.

Blogger decided to act up and not let me load the best of the photo's! I bet your thinking it is the photo of the finished product. Nope I have to tell you it isn't.

I'll show you later but let me tell you why no cupcakes yet.

I got a phone call from . . . (insert photo when blogger decides to cooperate)

my sweet grandbaby that is 2 and once I deciphered his words . "eat mexican food GiGi". The cupcake plan went awry. At least until after I eat lunch.

So come back because I know you want to see the finished product.

BTW I will be taking my lovely creations to a birthday party tomorrow. More on that later too.

Stairs, Door Knobs and Chair Backs a Small Thing

2010-10-07T17:15:00.000-07:00

Today Rachel Anne over at Home Sanctuary suggested a Small Thing. Clean these . . .

Beautiful but without the budget to have one of those nice little ladies around I sure wouldn't want one.

This is a little more my style. In fact it reminds me of the staircase in the house that we lived in when our children were young. See the arched doorway? Well ours was a door way to a closet that was under the stairs. It was the neatest closet. I stored all my holiday decorations there. I sure do miss that closet and that stair case.

But that is a rabbit and I must get back to the Simple Thing at hand. What Rachel suggested was picking up those items that you leave at the foot of the stairs. You know the shoes, toilet paper, errant books, clean clothes. All that stuff you come across during your daily activities that need to go up.

Well I no longer have a stair case. My nemesis is . . .

The backs of these chairs. And . . .

Door knobs! Yep. Door knobs.

My Cowboy has this habit of going to a dollar store and buying something for the car like windex or I don't know just stuff and he has the habit of walking in and leaving the sack hanging either on the above chairs or on a door knob.

Today I removed and put away: fix a flat, dryer sheets and gum. That was only from one door.

The bar chairs were nicely displaying the bag from the dry cleaners.

Now I can see and enjoy my lovely vintage door knobs while I count the points that I have been collecting this week by doing the Small Things. Well actually I don't have any vintage door knobs I found that cool photo on the net. But it is nice to dream.

If my calculations are correct I now have 140 points! WooHoo!

Tablescape Thursday Tales of Christmas Past

2010-10-07T07:57:00.001-07:00

Welcome to my Tale of Christmas Past Tablescape . . .
I thought I would share with you today a little luncheon table I set up for Cowboy and our daughter and the grandbaby last Christmas.

I chose the simple, cute & whimsical really, really cheap grocery store dinnerware . . .

It is a little hard to see but the dinner plates and the salad plates and the mugs were markdowns from Kroger. They were marked down because the handle of one mug was broken. But that worked fine for me because I set an even cheaper plastic cup on that place setting and planned if for the baby!

I added some old little fruit dishes and juice glasses that were cheap too in their day they came out of oat meal. (I wish they still did that) If you look closely again the baby's is slightly different. I got these from my mother and she only had three matching bowls. (We didn't eat much oatmeal) The fourth I found at a shop.
The green leaf plates are some of my favorites. I only have 4 they are Vintage Pier One! I say Vintage because I bought them over 20 years ago. Vintage sounds snazzier than old! Love them. I used to have a platter but I broke it. Darn it.

I thought the little candy canes added a little more fun so I put some in the mugs then tossed a couple on the table.

BTW I really didn't have a plan I just pulled together pieces that I love that were in the same color them. And, the meal was Taco Beuno!

I didn't really plan this table for a post but since I had this photo I thought I would share it.

I am at a little of a stand still in making tablescapes. I have run out of ideas with the few dishes that I currently have in our little apartment. (The rest are in boxes in storage)

I actually realized when I found this photo that this dishes are here. Maybe I'll drag them out this week and do a different tablescape for next week. Hmm.

We'll see come on by anyway I'll have something to share even if it is only a 'Dream'.

And don't forget to visit Mary for lots of inspiration! Have fun setting your table.

Home Sanctuary Simple Things

2010-10-06T14:50:00.001-07:00

Yesterday I joined Rachel Anne over at Home Sanctuary for the first time in months. I think my life is finally settled down a little and I can think about making my Home a Sanctuary. Yesterday Rachel suggested saying "Yes" to God. I posted about it yesterday but I want to follow up here. You see what I am saying yes to is actually two things. It starts with my other blog My Journey Back. I have felt for a long time that I should make some changes to there. I would love you to come by there and visit. It isn't a homemaking blog and I post very little about decorating. I do join a few weekly meme's. On Monday's I always try to write about our ministry or another ministry or post a book review. On Tuesday I have been writing my thoughts about being a Titus 2 woman. There are a few other meme's I join but mostly I write about My Journey to getting closer to God. It was actually a few months ago that I said 'yes' to God and began a blog dedicated to book reviews. And I posted a photo illustration of where I want My Journey to go and what I want it to be about. Simply said it's theme is explained like this WIJIT which means Where Is Jesus In This.
I haven't been keeping up over here at My Home Sanctuary but yesterday I made a commitment to say 'yes' and be much more regular about posting here. I hope you like what you see and read and I hope you will decide to follow.
I love to decorate. I love to visit other blogs for ideas. Every Monday I join Sandra for Happy Homemaker Monday. And I usually try to post something in Blue too and join Smiling Sally.
And I also try to visit Rachel and get some inspiration. Today she inspired me to take stock in my cleaning supplies. And so I did. I was out of comet. One of my old stand by's. And I needed windex. I use a lot of windex. One of my must have's is pop up wipes. Love them.
Rachel asked everyone to share one of their favorite bathroom cleaners. Here's a photo to illustrate mine.
Opp's well no that is my little happy house. Isn't it cute? Here's my favorite tool.

My trusty mop. I have a mop for floors and a mop I use to clean the toilet and the tub. They are they kind you take apart. I have a different mop head for each use. I know it sounds a little weird but it sure does save the back. I do my tub and my toilets regularly so they are pretty easy to scrub and believe me the mop makes it so much easier no bendin' a stooping!

This month I am trying to keep track of points because I want to enter Rachel's give away. And so after yesterday and today I have logged a big 'ole 90 points. Woohoo! Watch out girls I am sayin' yes and givin' you a run for your money this month!

Christmas Storybook--Book Review

2010-10-06T14:14:00.000-07:00

What an adorable book.

I received a copy from B&B Media Group.

I think you will love this book it would make a great gift.

The story is really sweet and it is interactive.....

Here's part of one of the pages

Mary will have a baby.

Point to Mary in the picture.

The baby will be God's son.

Pretend to rock a baby.

Mary was glad to be a mommy to Jesus.

Smile a big smile.

Each page is so sweet and ends with a little prayer.

This book is recommended for children up to 3 yrs.

This book is part of a series of 7.

You can go to David C. Cook for more info. about the others.

Many thanks to Karen at B&B Media for offering this book for review.

Say yes . . .

2010-10-05T19:55:00.000-07:00

Yes Lord . . . Yes Lord . . . Yes Yes Lord . . . today I was challenged by Rachel over at Home Sanctuary. It has been a really, really long time since I have participated in her suggestions to make your Home a Sanctuary one small thing at a time.

In fact you probably don't even know that this blog is here because of Rachel. The name of this blog was inspired by Rachel. There was a time that I was posting fairly regularly here and following her suggestions. But the last few months have been so crazy for me that I have neglected my time here.

And so, today at Rachel's suggestion I am hoping that I can say 'Yes' and make a commitment to spend my time here with you.

My desire for My Home Sanctuary is to share with you my home and how I am trying to make it a sanctuary. I love decorating. I love cooking. I love reading. I love getting inspiration from other bloggers. And I love learning new things.

I love being a Happy Homemaker on Monday and everyday. And I hope that you'll begin to come here often.

I want to share with your what I am learning. Even though I am a more 'mature' woman. That means I am over 50 I know that there are still many things I have to learn. Mostly because I know that God is continually doing a makeover on me. Just about the time I think everything is running smoothly I realize because he has brought to my attention that there is an area of my life I need to work on. And over at My Journey Back I try to share what God is teaching me. So, I would love it if you dropped in over there and maybe leave me a comment and let me know you've come by.

And I hope you'll become a regular visitor here and join me in saying "Yes Lord". And if you need inspiration or encouragement to work harder at making your home more of a sanctuary then join me over at Rachel's for some encouragement and inspiration.

Happy Homemaker Monday Oct.4, 2010

2010-10-04T16:52:00.000-07:00

Sorry there is so much space between photo's blogger has been giving me fits! Please stay around and enjoy!

The weather in my neck of the woods: We are being blessed with wonderful fall weather. Almost even a little chilly but beautiful.

Things that make me happy: My Blog

Book I'm reading: Maverick Heart by Loree Lough

What's on my TV today: Music

On the menu for dinner: Well it was gumbo but no okra. So cooking up some Steak and Potato Soup, Caesar Salad

On my To Do List:Finish put away last weeks Laundry (shhh. Please don’t tell!)

New Recipe I tried or want to try soon: Gratin Onion

Does this not look so yummy? I found it at Closet Cooking his kitchen is like a closet; I love his blog name.

In the craft basket: Aprons and quilts to finish.

Looking forward to this week: Tatooed Hearts on Wednesday and maybe lunch with my daughter, the grand baby and my mother on Friday.

Tips and Tricks:Fold and put away each load of laundry when it is out of the dryer. Otherwise you end up like me having some to put away the next time!

My favorite blog post this week: Monica hosted her daughters group Little Keepers group and shared it here.

Blog Hopping (a new discovered blog you would like to share with the readers): This is a really great cooking blog I found a while back each month they post a photo to share for your desk top. Go over and check out Chocolate & Zucchini.

No words needed (favorite photo or picture, yours or others you want to share):

Lesson learned the past few days: That sometimes with some people now matter how hard you to try to get along it doesn’t matter or make a difference. Sometimes you have to give up and move on.

On my mind: A really bad situation that I have to get out of.

Devotionals, Scripture Reading, Key Verses: We loved you so much that we were delighted to share with you not only The gospel of God but our lives as well . . . 1 Thessalonians 2:8

Sandra is the wonderful hostess and creator of Happy Homemaker Monday stop over and visit for more posts.

Blue Monday

2010-10-04T08:48:00.000-07:00

A different kind of Blue Monday . . . Enjoy!

First a Blue backpack to carry a few books that I have read lately and they are all our Monday color of the day Blue!

First a new Max Lucado book. This one was great filled with stories about people that changed another persons life. It is a small little gift book and quick and easy to read. It would definitely make a great gift!

Nest I loved this novel. The dog on the cover looks just like my dog. If you want a fun read I would suggest this one. I am keeping my copy but I am buying one for my sister who is a novel reader and dog lover.

And my last little Blue book was a fun children's book. It is a great little story about a dog that wants to be a 'helping dog' for a handicapped person. I know when my little grandson is older he will love this little story book.

Thanks for coming by and visiting. And if your interested go over here to my other blog to read the reviews. There is a tab at the top of the page that will take you to the reviews.

And don't forget to go over and see Smiling Sally for more Blue.

Enjoy your Blue Monday.

Homemaker Challenge

2010-10-01T16:24:00.000-07:00

I found the most fun new idea over at Amy's

Each Friday she is going to suggest a challenge and she gives us a week to complete it. Then we post about it. I cannot believe how she has started this. See below.

Oh my word the girl wants us to bake! So I am off to turn on the oven. Dust off the cookbook. Dust of the kitchen aide and make something delicious. Photo's to follow.

Wanna join the fun? Go back up to the top and click on Amy's name and you'll end up at her really cool blog.

Tablescape Thursday Sept. 30,2010

2010-09-30T07:15:00.000-07:00

Welcome. Thanks for stopping in I was just planning a luncheon for my daughter. We are going to plan our holiday menu's. Maybe you can help. Let me get you a glass of tea.

Here's what I was thinking a soup and salad lunch . . .

I have some favorite cookbooks ready and a pad for notes ready. It is a little hard to see but the little glass jar holding the pens is from my daughters elephant collection. The jar actually has an elephant on it. I can't decide if I should use the pig or not . . . What do you think?

Here's the plate. It is just a simple solid blue dinner plate. My Cowboy used them years ago for a breakfast that he had to do for his work. Being the plate lover I am I saved them.
The place mat and the runner are Guatemalan fabric my Cowboy brought back from a trip.

And ya I know about the hideous scratch on the table. I cannot get it off. Go back to the top photo it is covered up! So I usually try to just cover it up. I would love to paint this table black but well . . . My Cowboy has no imagination!

I can't decide on the tea towel as a napkin or . . .

Or this look with the bandanna print napkin. Or heck why not both!

Now here's me trying to decide whether to just go with my small collection of fiesta. The bowls are the new ones from Khol's I have no idea about the pitcher but I bought it over 20 years ago at an antique shop. So maybe it's old. Really doesn't matter to me. I just love the blue.

Here's that little piggy trying to get onto the table again. I was trying to shoo it off that is why this shot is a little blurry! Oh the candle sticks I didn't tell you about them. I love these. They are from Pier One and again at least 20 years old. (I feel old) I love them because the inside is open and I can also use them as a vase. They look great with one flower.

One last shot of the fiesta and the print I have on the wall. I thought I would share it. Notice the blue steps at the very bottom. That blue is my inspiration to paint a piece of furniture I plan to be adding behind the table.

Oh you have to run? Thanks for dropping in. Have a great day!

BTW if your a regular visitor I bet your thinking you've seen this table before! Yep I re-posted but it wasn't origanlly posted here. I origanlly posted over at My Journey Back. Stop over there today to see my Thankful Thursday post.

Blue Monday

2010-09-27T06:42:00.000-07:00

I have more Blue planned for today but blogger isn't cooperating. Please come back for more blue. Until then here's one . . .

Tablescape Thursday Sept. 23, 2010

2010-09-22T17:37:00.001-07:00

Welcome to Table scape Thursday on the breakfast bar . . . Today I wanted to see what elements I could pull together to make the breakfast bar in our apartment look a little more pulled together. So, what do you think?

I used most of the same pieces you've seen before. The blue plates, the red soup crocks which are actually small fondue pots. And the star glasses and flatware. And I moved the lamp that I had on the dining table last week. It really cozy ups this area.

I reused the blue glass candle holders from pier one. And the kind of fancy brown and rusty looking ones too.

I added a fall wall hanging to the wall to cozy things up a bit. Right in the very center of the bar is a pottery barn tray that was the inspiration. It is hard to see but it is red with a gold chineese design.

I love to incorporate different textures. And I love to use different themes elegant or fancy, primitive or homespun. I love combining different themes. The place mats are some kind of shiny fabric with some embroidery on them and little gold beads on the corners. The napkins add texture and a fallish theme. They are actually just a piece of upholstery fabric.

And for one more texture or theme I left the Cowboy rustic kind of Mexican theme bar stools.

I love that you came by to see my eclectic kind of decorating. I hope you enjoy the visit. Come back soon.

For more tables capes please visit Mary at Between Naps on The Porch.

Blue Monday

2010-09-20T09:22:00.000-07:00

Do you ever has those days or weeks or months when your so busy you wake up and realize it is Friday and it seemed only minutes before it was Monday? Sometimes you wonder where did the hours and days go. And maybe you feel like you want to get away. Take a trip. Go for a drive. Get away for a few days and just 'chill' as the teenagers would say.

Well I decided to take a drive but no money for gas and the car isn't running to well so I took a little virtual drive. I wanted to drive to the country or maybe to a pretty little town and look at pretty little cottages. And so I did here's what a found . . .

A beautiful Blue door.

A sweet little cottage with Blue shutters.

That sat behind a pretty little Blue fence. (no it really didn't but this is my virtual tour and so I get to make up the story.)

And down the street from the cottage sat the prettiest little church. And when the light is just right it looks Blue. And it was so much fun playing in the snow on such a hot day!

And now my next stop on my little virtual holiday is over at Sally's to share a Smile and look at all the blue she found this week.

Tablescape Thursday

2010-09-15T18:35:00.000-07:00

Good morning. I am so glad you stopped in I need your help. I am planning a little romantic table for two. I am so not sure about a couple of things. Would you help?
1st here is the table complete with just a plain 'ole white tablecloth. Not sure I like it.

Now here it is with a different cloth. Not exactly sure but I think it's brocade. I am definately leaning toward this one. BTW it really isn't even a table cloth just a piece of fabric.

Here's a close up of the center. The doily isn't really a doily it is a collar. The ring of beady looking thing in the center is actually a garland which I can't seem to figure out how to use. I like it here. Can't decide if I should put flowers in the vase or fill with sand and add sand dollars and shells. To make it a romantic beachy look.

Here's the first layer. I think I like the fabric best. What do you think?

Layer two some linen placemats I have had for a long time and never used except to dress the table. I am a little annoyed they got wrinkled in the move and I cannot get those blasted wrinkles out. That is why I have never used them I knew they wouldn't wash up very well and I have to iron! If you look really close there is a decorative white stitching. I think they probably came from Target but not sure. It's been too long!

Next layer. I love, love these plates! They are Moda. Love them. Opp's already said that!

Love these too! Vintage because I bought these babies probably 20 years ago. I cannot believe it. They are from Pier One.

The glasses match the star theme. These are Tiara glass and they are 30 years old. Got them as a wedding present.

And one last look I wanted you to notice the napkins they are old I got them a long time ago at an antique shop. They wash up so great I love them. And, the tea glasses I forgot to take a single shot of them. Garage sale finds. There were 4 and 1 small glass. I don't really think thier old just made to look old.

So what do you think? Table cloth or fabric? Sand or flowers? Now I am off to find some background music. And start the tea and maybe some frozen slushy kind of drink for the star glasses.

Thanks for coming by. Be sure and go here for my Tablescape Thursday posts.

Happy Homemaker Monday

2010-09-13T09:40:00.000-07:00

Join Sandra at Family Corner for more Happy HomeMaker Monday.

The weather in my neck of the woods:
Ranging from hot to hot and muggy to hot and rainy. Oh where or where is fall?

Things that make me happy:
My dog laying at my feel while I am writing and listening to music found on other blogs. I have Coffee Tea and Books in another window.

Book I'm reading:
A Dispicable Job I was ready for a novel looks promising.

I'm enjoying on TV:

Call me crazy but I really like that penquin cartoon on Nick I think. The one from the Disney movie. I cannot think of the name of it.

On the menu for dinner:
Meat and potatos Cowboy is simple. This is the menu when he does the shopping.

On my To Do List:

Find a job.

New Recipe I tried or want to try soon:
http://thecottagehome.blogspot.com/2010/08/white-pizza-from-cottage-garden.html

In the craft basket:

A couple of baby quilts to finish after I finish the two aprons from the August give a way.

Looking forward to this week:
Praise and Worship with the boys at McFadden

Tips and Tricks:

Glass pie plates make great dinner plates. The edges keep peas and juice contained and I don’t worry about scratching them like I do my good dishes. It makes it great for a young child learning to use a knife.

My favorite blog post this week:

Filing and organizing post here:

http://coffeeteabooksandme.blogspot.com/2010/09/filing-my-way-to-wisdom.html

Blog Hopping (a new discovered blog you would like to share with the readers):
http://coffeeteabooksandme.blogspot.com/

No words needed (favorite photo or picture, yours or others you want to share):

Lesson learned the past few days:
Trust myself and what God is saying to me.

On my mind:
Some of ‘our kids’ (the youth we work with) and what God and I are talking about.

Devotionals, Scripture Reading, Key Verses:
Come, let us sing for Joy to the Lord: let us shout aloud to the Rock of our salvation. Let us come before him with thanksgiving and extol him with music and song. Psalm 95:1 & 2
For: Joseph
~

Blue Monday

2010-09-06T08:11:00.001-07:00

All I can say is yuuuuummmmmmmmmmeeeeeeeee!

A little blue table scape I was playing around with the other day. I just love my blue dishes!

And I love Sally and Blue Monday go over and visit her for more fun blue photo's. for some reason my link isn't working...
Blue Monday is at SmilingSally(dot)blogspot.(dot)com.

Happy Homemaker Monday

2010-09-06T06:54:00.000-07:00

The weather in my neck of the woods: Hot but getting cooler.

Things that make me happy: Avocado's I just love them!

Book I'm reading: Me,Myself and Paris by Ruth Yunker current rating: Promising

I'm enjoying on TV: I really need to change this one to current song I am enjoying. I just watch very little t.v.

On the menu for dinner: Hot Dogs, chips and cole slaw for lunch. Dinner not sure but I am thinking taco's I love my taco's.

On my To Do List:

1. Unpacking and organizing (got a bunch of stuff out of storage) 2. Laundry if I can find an open machine...Happy Labor Day everyone is off work and washing clothes. 3. Spending time at the sewing machine as soon as I finish my posts.

New Recipe I tried or want to try soon:
http://moogieland.blogspot.com/2008/10/hamburger-helper-soup.html go back and get photo

This one was from last week but still want to try. . . Here is this weeks.

I love yellow squash and zucchini. Only problem is my favorite way to cook them is frying. I thought this look yummy and a little healthier. Here's the recipe.

In the craft basket: two aprons from my give a way that ended the 1st.

Looking forward to this week: Writing more posts here. Getting a job offer.

Tips and Tricks:

If your grand children live in another state and your not able to be at their bday parties. Pack up a box filled with cups and plates and napkins a cake mix anything party related you can think of and ship. They'll have a great time making their own party. Caution do not think or expect this will be 'The' party. And don't try to push your idea off on your daughter in law. Just expect it to be a fun way for the birthday child to see you care!

My favorite blog post this week:

Favorite post 'waking up singing'' by Joan at Reflections of His grace wrote about waking up singing. Here's the verse she used. Psalm 92 - it is good to give thanks to the Lord, to sing praises to Him, to acknowledge His faithfulness. You can go here to read her post.

Blog Hopping (a new discovered blog you would like to share with the readers):

Tracy at Thirsty for Him has a lovely blog. Here is what she writes in her welcome . . . 'my prayer is that you will be refreshed and encouraged here, thirsting after a deeper relationship with the beautiful savior-Jesus Christ I want to encourage others to seek him to be radical for him to be head over heels in love with Him .' You can go here to visit her.

No words needed (favorite photo or picture, yours or others you want to share):

Just a couple of words . . . I found this here.
'At the beginning of every month, I am offering C&Z readers a new wallpaper to apply on the desktop of your computer, with a food-related picture and a calendar of the current month. ' I thought it was cool go over and visit.

Lesson learned the past few days: That I need to not allow circumstances and other peoples decisions dictate things that I feel I should do.

On my mind: Waiting and praying for a job offer.

Devotionals, Scripture Reading, Key Verses: By wisdom a house is built, and through understanding it is established; through knowledge its rooms are filled with rare and beautiful treasures. Proverbs 24: 3
~

Happy Homemaker Monday

2010-08-30T16:33:00.001-07:00

The weather in my neck of the woods: I think it might be in the low 90's woohoo Fall just might be around the corner.

Things that make me happy: sewing. If I don't get to sit at my sewing machine I tend to get cranky.

Book I'm reading: It's No Secret by Rachel Olsen. Just got it today and it looks really good.

I'm enjoying on TV: nothing been too busy.

On the menu for dinner: Cowboy is working till 8 won't be home till 9 so it is can of soup and a sandwich. I cooked a huge brunch today. Eggs, chicken fried steak, hashbrowns and toast. I think soup is o.k. for tonight. What do you think?

On my To Do List: Finish putting in shelf paper.

New Recipe I tried or want to try soon: Hamburger Helper Soup found over here.
http://moogieland.blogspot.com/2008/10/hamburger-helper-soup.html

In the craft basket: Nothing about to start the apron for the give a way 2 more days to enter. Leave a comment and follow me for another point.

Looking forward to this week: Job interview tomorrow. Say a prayer please.

Tips and Tricks: Pray for your husband.

My favorite blog post this week
Blog Hopping (a new discovered blog you would like to share with the readers): A great cooking blog over at http://moogieland.blogspot.com/

No words needed (favorite photo or picture, yours or others you want to share):

Lesson learned the past few days: That Cowboy wears his heart on his sleeve.

On my mind: The new job that I am going to get tomorrow. (positive thinking)

Devotionals, Scripture Reading, Key Verses: Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another ,even as God in Christ forgave you. Ephesians 4:32

Help me Father to have a heart of forgiveness. Help me to be kind and tenderhearted even when I don't feel like it.

Visit Sandra and join Happy Homemaker Monday.

Decorating Mosaic on a Blue Monday

2010-08-23T08:40:00.000-07:00

I had such fun with these images I decided to do a Mosaic too and join in in Mosaic Monday over at Mary's and well of course I had to join Blue Monday too. Enjoy!

I loved this one. I have used this photo before for a Wordfilled Wednesday post. This photo is compliments of Kim at Star Shine Chic. She is one creative girl I love visiting her for inspiration.

I have no idea where this one came from. But I just loved all the different shades of blue not shure I would consider the cubes at least not these but it is fun to look at. And what an amazing window. I dream of a room like this. Can't you just imagine looking at the blue sky from this room.

What a light shade of blue and did you notice all the mixtures of color, texture, styles and fabrics. A dreamy room of Blue.

I dream of a potting bench filled with old chippy blue pots. It might be hard to tell but I think this is an old school desk.

And lastly I thought I would share this and lure you over to my Happy Homemaker post there is a lot of blue in Sandra's button photo!

Hope your day is Happy and filled with Blue that makes you smile. If these images don't make you smile go over to Sally's or well just go over there anyway. And tell her I sent you.

Happy Homemaker Monday

2010-08-23T07:07:00.001-07:00

The weather in my neck of the woods: Just plain Hot!

Things that make me happy: To understand and know God's will.

Book I'm reading again: Mercy Rising by Amber Robison . . . studying this book to feature on my Mission Monday feature over at My Journey Back.

I'm enjoying on TV: Just found reruns of Susan Thomas FBI

On the menu for dinner: hmm....kind of thinkin' Chicken Fried Steak, mashed potatoes and gravy and green beans I guess. Gettin' hungry thinking about it.

On my To Do List: Organize my tiny apartment . . . organize the closets . . . and prepare a post on small space living.

New Recipe I tried or want to try soon:

Chicken is on sale this gonna pick some up and try this doesn't it look yummy? Go over here for the recipe.

In the craft basket: Aprons for my give way check out the button on my side bar

Looking forward to this week: Hearing God's answer about my job situation and then moving forward.

Tips and Tricks
When you discover verses for Wordfilled Wednesday or posts, new blogs, or recipes for Happy Homemaker Monday send yourself an email with the link. Leave the emails unopened to remind you.

My favorite blog post this week:

Something to think about . . . this was a great post over at Enchanting Cottage I couldn't get the link to work but it is the August 14th post she shared a really sweet story and a couple of Bible verses. This one spoke to me.
Proverbs 15:13 A happy heart makes the face cheerful, but heartache crushes the spirit.

Blog Hopping (a new discovered blog you would like to share with the readers):

Amy shares her daily dinner plans with recipes and beautiful photo's. Lot's of inspiration here.

No words needed (favorite photo or picture, yours or others you want to share):

I love this photo thinking of using it over at My Journey Back for my Wordfilled Wednesday post. Come by and check it out.

Lesson learned the past few days: This is one I am trying to learn. In regard to God's plan and His will. We are struggling with the decision of my getting a job.

On my mind: Finding a job I have found a job that really suits me. Would you guys say a prayer for me. Ask God to open the doors and give me peace whether it is in getting this job or not getting it. I struggle with knowing His perfect will.

Devotionals, Scripture Reading, Key Verses:
Psalm 28:7
The Lord is my strength and my shield.
My heart trusts in Him and I am helped.
My heart leaps for Joy and I will give Praise to Him in song.

This was my verse for the last couple of weeks. I think I have finally memorized it.

Here’s the new set of verses I am working on this week.
~1 Peter 5:6-10

Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's might hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him
because he cares for you.
Be self-confident and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.
Resist him, standing firm in the faith because you know that your brothers throughout the world are undergoing the same kind of sufferings.
And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong firm and steadfast. To him the power for ever and ever. Amen 1 Peter 5:6-10

Thanks for coming by. Happy Homemaker Monday is hosted by Sandra go over and visit her at Family Corner.

A Quilt along and a Give a Way

2010-08-17T19:40:00.000-07:00

You have to join us in this if your a quilter and want to learn how to do amazing free motion quilting. I am so excited to join. And, if you go on over and leave a comment, follow the blog and answer a question you can enter the give a way.

Here's what you can win . . .

And here's some of the amazing things you can learn to do . . .

Go over here and sign up. And tell Christina I sent you!

Happy Homemaker Monday

2010-08-16T08:59:00.000-07:00

The weather in my neck of the woods: One word Hot!

Things that make me happy: sleeping late and having the bed to myself.

Book I'm reading: Just finished Miss Hildreth Wore Brown by Olivia deBelle Byrd

I'm enjoying on TV:
I am actually filling this one in with something new. I just found Pit Bulls and Parolee's on Animal Planet. I really enjoy seeing the changes in the dogs. It is wonderful to see someone care about them and help rehabilitate. The concept of using men on parole and giving them a chance is great too. Check it out.

On the menu for dinner:
No idea. If the freezer, pantry and fridge was stocked I would do a steak with mushfrooms, and a ceasar salad, fresh fried okra, tomato and mozarella for an appetizer and a chocolate dessert ( I am hungry)

On my To Do List:
Want to keep looking for bloggers who repurpose clothing or sew. I am getting a lot of inspiration for a sewing project.
Take photo's for my Thursday Tablescape post.

New recipe I want to try soon: http://alisaburke.blogspot.com/2010/07/buckets-of-baked-french-fries.html

In the craft basket: planning a couple of aprons for my giveway. Check it out.

Looking forward to this week: Tablescape Thursday I have a plan for an intimate dinner for two. Come by and see the post.

Tips and Tricks:

When you find a new blog, a favorite post, a favorite photo, or recipe for HMM post click on the title and then in the address bar at the top copy the url and then paste it into a new email. Then email it to yourself. Title the subject 4 HHM and save till your ready to write your post. You can click back on the link to copy the photo then add to your post.

My favorite blog post this week:

http://www.animalsneedhelp.com/2009/03/29/molly-the-horse-that-leaves-a-smile-wherever-she-walks/

Blog Hopping (a new discovered blog you would like to share with the readers):
A new blog I am truly in love with. Alicia has alot to share about home making and being frugal. She is truly inspiring.

No words needed (favorite photo or picture, yours or others you want to share):

Lesson learned the past few days:
Sorry this is gross but if you live in an apartment and you have bugs they are probably not your fault because they were there when you moved in. I hate bug spray! My husband thinks it is the best thing since sliced bread he sprays ant's, flies anything with that disgusting stuff. But here's a tip if you do have bugs in kitchen windex, clorox clean up, or even hand washing soap will kill them just pour or spray and they will die right before your eyes. Much safer than that other nasty stuff. But if you find a bug in the dishwasher and you grab the hand dishing soap to annilate the trespasser and then you turn on the dishwasher the water will leak out on the floor.

On my mind:
Finding a job that pays enough but gives me flexibility so I can continue my volunteer job at McFadden Ranch. We do chapel services every week. Yesterday we had 30 boys!

Devotionals, Scripture Reading, Key Verses:

The Lord is my savior and my shield. My heart trusts in Him and I am helped.

My heart leaps for Joy and I will give thanks to Him in song. Psalm 28:7

I think I finally have this verse memorized.

Visit Sandra for more Happy Homemaker posts.

Check out this give a way

2010-08-12T18:13:00.001-07:00

I found this over at Ruffles and Roses click here. This is so cute. I hope my name is drawn because my daughter would love this. Pick me. Pick me!

And you have to do to enter is go by and leave a comment and then follow the blog; which I am going to do because I have been looking for bloggers that sew some amazing
things. I need some inspiration for repurposing and sewing up some great things.

Tablescape Thursday

2010-08-12T07:10:00.000-07:00

Welcome come on in for our little Mexican Fiesta . . .

I am runnin' a little behind I was just drying the dishes. I don't use these often so I always give them a little clean up first. Actually I just love to find a reason to use this dish towel and I wanted to show it to you! Yes it was an Ebay find. How did you know?

Everything all dry and ready for the little buffet. Sorry Cowboy just dumped his chaps there on the chair. Men. I can't complain though because he jumped into the truck to run down and pick up the homemade tamales that will be part of our lunch. Oh I just love the table cloth too. Found it at some antique shop I really don't remember I have had it so long!

The drink station is set up. I'll run get the tea and frozen margarita's out of the fridge. It is so hot outside I knew you would want something cold to drink. Cowboy thought the table runner was a little silly but I thought something was lacking yes...I did take a part a skirt but I think it is kind of fun I love the ruffle. Adds a little frilliness I thought.

And while I am there I'll grab the guacamole, salsa's and chips.

Yes that is my family famous homemade chili you smell. It is slowly simmering on the stove.

Of course I had to serve it because I had to have a reason to use my chili bowls. Yes they are the little brown ones.

The dinner plates are Noritake Boulder Ridge this set was a Mothers Day gift from the kids and the Cowboy.

Oh the glasses your wondering about them. Aren't they perfect for a cold frozen margarita. I loved stemmed glasses. These are 30 years old. I got them as a wedding gift they are Tiara glass and yes that is a date on them they are commemorative glasses. I just love the amber color.

Oh well thank you I know isn't the little donkey so cute. I never use him for his intended purpose her always just decorates. He was a gift from a friend.

So many questions yes...I do have a collection of wood bowls I use them for all kinds of things. Sometimes I fill the large one with candles for the table. Thanks for noticing.

Oh I think I hear the truck coming in. Cowboy must be back anyone ready to sit down and eat! I'll have Cowboy light the candles on his way back outside. Go ahead refill your glass and I'll get the buffet set up.

What's for dinner today?

2010-08-10T17:20:00.000-07:00

I was wondering what cha' doin' for dinner today? I am trying the pot roast recipe I mentioned on My Happy Homemaker Monday post. And I guess your wondering what's up with the photo of the aprons. Well I love aprons! Don't you? I found these at Apron Chronicals. It is a cool website with some information about vintage aprons and some history. It is worth a visit. Here's the link. Well I saved the photo for a couple of reasons. I am going to make a button for my Give A Way. I'll be announcing the prize package tomorrow. So come back to get the skinny on the prize. You might as well enter by leaving comment here. Signing up to follow here and at the Book Review Blog and at My Journey Back.
I'll enter your name for each comment and each sign up entry. What could be easier?

Mosaic Monday

2010-08-09T06:52:00.001-07:00

Is it as hot where you are as it is in DFW? Thought I would share something to cool ya down a bit!

Still beautiful. I love to look at snow. Tehehe.

Thanks for coming by. And what a great day to visit because if you leave a comment, sign up to follow and then go over to my new book blog and sign up I will enter you in my giveway.

That's all you have to do come by everyday and enter.

Ok your asking what do I win? Well you win an apron made by me for you. And a cookbook. Once I have randomly chosen a winner I will visit your blog and design the apron just for you.

So hurry sign up!

And come back next Monday for Happy Homemaker Monday. Today my post is here BTW if your not already following My Journey Back sign up there. Don't forget to leave me a comment each time so I can count each entry.

Mosaic Monday

2010-05-10T06:17:00.001-07:00

I received these photo's and a few more from a friend on Friday. If you visit here often you'll usually see some horse photo's. I cannot get enough of them. These were actually prettier I think before I put the mosaic together. I love the mare and foal and the top. And then look at that darling foal doing gymnastics!
I hope you enjoyed.
BTW I think I ma be back! We have moved into the new house and trying to settle in. Still have stuff to get out of the old place but we are on the last leg of that journey! Thanks to all my dear sweet friends for the prayers.
Hope your week is Blessed and may your Home be a Sanctuary to you and your family.

Blue Monday

2010-05-09T20:50:00.000-07:00

Today I wanted to share a photo from last summer. I was so proud of my tomato's! Don't they look great laying amidst those cool Blue bottles? Even though it is late I hope I get at least a couple plants in the ground this week!
I have a lot to do this week like . . . resurrecting Trade Tuesdays. Or is it Tuesday Trade Days I forget. Anyway look over on my sidebar. I have that really cool Pottery Barn tray waiting to trade. Email me if you are interested. I need stuff for the new house. So if you have something you don't want but really need the cool Pottery Barn tray I'll trade you.
Oh back to those blue bottles. This is a Blue Monday post! Even though I have had them for golly gee probably 20 years maybe not. 15 for sure They just don't fit into this house. I bought them at Pier One. As soon as I find them I'll offer them for trade. See how great they look with a single flower in them. I have used them by my tub to hold baby oil and powder and bath salts. Oh the possibilities. I am sure you want them. Dig around in your house and see what you can live without and post a photo and then leave me a comment here.
BTW the Cowboy does occasionally buy flowers!

And, I found the blue bottles. I will take photo's and put them on the sidebar! Wanna trade? And don't forget to go visit Smiling Sally for more photo's of interesting blue things. Some people are so creative!

There's a party goin' on!

2010-04-10T11:47:00.001-07:00

I am joining 5 Minues for Mom and we're having cake!

Cake is always good anytime but especially when there is a party. I hope you enjoy your visit here.

This is where I write about my home and the things I dream about. I dream of a Sanctuary where there is no clutter, no dirty dishes in the sink. The floors are clean and mopped. The grass is mowed. (that is my Cowboy's job) I dream of peace and Sanctuary. I get a lot of inspiration from Rachel Anne at Home Sanctuary. She has wonderful ideas everyday go by and visit her too!

Thanks for stopping in and please come back anytime. I am going to add a give a way here so come by on Monday.

And well right now why don't you just Party On!

2nd Time Around Tuesday

2010-04-06T06:46:00.000-07:00

Welcome to 2nd time around Tuesday. Where we show off our 2nd hand treasures.
Today I am sharing a piece I "acquired". It was donated to our ministry for a rummage sale. No one bought and so I kept it. Still can't decide if I should put it in this years sale.

I got some inspiration for it. I have seriously. I mean seriousssssssssssssly thinking of painting it black. And then I went to Traci's last night and saw what she did. I was going to post her photo but it wouldn't load. Why is it I have so much trouble when I am in a hurry to get my photo's to load? Anyway can you just see this in black? What do you think. Leave me a comment and tell me what I should do with it. Oh if your like my Cowboy and just cannot imagine it in black go over to Traci's and see her post and tutorial. And then run over and visit Diane to see all the other 2nd Time Around posts.

Blue Monday Men in Blue

2010-04-05T16:42:00.000-07:00

My second time to join Blue Monday with Smiling Sally go over and visit here to see more posts in blue.

2nd Time Around Tuesday

2010-03-30T07:56:00.001-07:00

Welcome to 2nd Time Around Tuesday...I love this day. Visiting everyone and seeing all the things they find at garage sales, trade days,shops and the attic!

Today I am sharing a piece that my Cowboy found that has spent many years in an attic. He found it the other day in our hall bathroom. I have a shelf that I display antique toys on. He got it down and dusted it off. Yes he dusted. My only excuse is it is on a shelf that is up by the ceiling I can't reach it. Anyway he dusted it off and got it out for our grandson to play with.

I tried to get a good photo of him playing but I couldn't. He kept moving too fast for my little camera.
This is 40 something years old. It was mine when I was little. It was so fun watching the baby play with it. The first day he just put the animals in and then walked around with it following him. On the back side of the top is a photo of all the animals on the stands and it its all set up. He discovered the photo after playing with it for a couple of days. He looked at it then looked up at me and smiled so big! Dawng I never have the camera when I need it.

I decided to investigate it on Ebay and I found out it was from around 1960 at least the ones listed said that. I was born in 1957 so it would be about right. I found one on Ebay for $225.00. It was complete in the box. I don't have the box.

You ladies that get to garage sale and thrift shops if you find one grab it. Even the seperate pieces are worthy something and people are buying them.

I won't sell mine. I am glad that my Cowboy was smart enough to get it out for the baby!

Thanks for stopping in and playing with my circus train today. Isn't it so sweet how my grandbaby shares his toys?

Don't forget to go over here and visit 2nd Time Around Tuesday

Inspiration in Blue/Blue Monday

2010-03-29T10:23:00.000-07:00

Today I decided to join Sally for Blue Monday.
Here are a few favorite blue photo's

I love the blue pots! I have a couple old clay pots and I think I want to copy this at our new house.

I just thought this one was interesting. A little too light blue for me but I love all the elements pulled in together. love the almost ticking type fabric on the left.

I loved this! I love the combo of the blue and orange! So pretty and the layers of quilts. My favorite is the dark blue one with the spirals. Love this!

This one I actually saved for the yellow. It is one of the colors I have chosen for my porch rockers. But I love the blue too so thought I would share it today.

Thanks for coming by I'll try to get my mosaic to load soon!

Friday Coffee with the girls

2010-03-26T08:11:00.000-07:00

Well today is Coffee for all the Company Girls. Everyone gets together and visits each other and we all share about our week.
If your not a Company Girl you need to be. Rachel over at Home Sanctuary has brought together all us through her wonderful blog and the Simple Things she suggests everyday to help us all make our homes a Sanctuary.

My week was filled with many things. My brain was filled with information. My heart and soul was filled with anxiety and emotion and peace.

Here's a quick recap.

Oh Monday I joined Sandra for Homemaker Monday and I met some new friends. I loved this and will keep doing it. My post is over at my other blog. Oh and I have some books to give away there too. Go here to enter my drawing.

On Monday Christ's Haven a childrens home near us came and took our 22 year old Paint horse. It was bitter sweet. We have had him since he was a 3 year old. But we are please that he will make a lot of little kids happy. We went to see him on Wednesday. He was happily munching hay. We took him apples and enjoyed that. We left a big bag to share with his friends.

It was easy and difficult to let him go. I know it is for the best. But when I look outside and he isn't there it hurts. Mainly because he is our last horse. This is the end of a 20 year chapter in our life. It's hard.

On the bright side we had lots of ministry going on this week. Meetings, dinners, luncheons. The girls at the halfway house where we volunteer are all beginning to really show that they like us coming. This changes as girls come and go. Some groups take weeks to be openly accepting of us and what we are trying to share with them. Yesterday 3/4 of them approached me first and offered hugs. Praise God.

I have been worried for over a month about one of the girls that I mentor. I have known her for 3 years. She lives about 4 hours away. I haven't talked to her in over a month because I don't have a cell anymore. And all she does is text mostly. Kids! I talked to her stepmom last night and found out some things. Basically confirmed my suspicions. Not good. Can ya'll pray for a girl named McKenzie. I have spoken to a lady here that has a transitional housing program and I hope I can get her to move here.

Don't you just hate it when you run out of dish soap. That happens to me way too often! I have spent the morning washing 2 days worth of dishs. Ugh. But the kitchen is shinny and clean again so now I can go and visit and have some coffee!

Oh before I go I did begin a routine of mopping my kitchen floor everyday. My floor is so clean now.

Thanks Rachel Anne for all your inspiration.

Oh I almost forgot my favorite simple thing this week was the laundry day. Did ya'll do that. I mean cha ching cha ching. I did 2 loads one day and 3 the next I still have two loads today. But don't worry I don't turn in my points so I won't be getting that great prize.

Off to coffee.

What cha doin' today?

2010-03-23T10:56:00.000-07:00

I was wondering what everyone is doing today?
I know it is Ruby Tuesday and some people are posting things in Red.
And it is 2nd Time Around and some people are posting garage sale finds.
Let's see isn't there a Tempt my tummy Tuesday too?

Well I am doing none of these. Maybe some day soon when I am done with this!

Here's what I checked off for today so far.

Kitchen swept and mopped (waiting for it to dry I am hungry!)
Entrance hall swept and mopped
Hall Bath swept and mopped
2 loads laundry washed dried and put away....cha ching! Rachel's Simple Thing today!

Oh and btw in case you haven't read my many, many posts about moving. That is why I used the photo. I am sweeping, mopping vacumning around boxes!

Well that reminds me of the other thing I needed to do. Pick up the grandbabies toys and vacumn.

What are doin' today?

Mosaic Monday

2010-03-22T11:01:00.000-07:00

Welcome to Mosaic Monday today I am sharing some inspiration for summer parties.
Since we will be moving into a new house soon I know I'll have plenty of chances for party's. Here's my inspiration.

I think most of these are from magazines. I have not figured out an organized way to save and give credit. So instead of sending out the blogging police tell me how you organize the photo's you find in other places.

I love this candle fire pit looks like a simple way for a an evening fire when you don't have something fancy.

I love the gauzy fabric in the next photo. Next I love the use of all the old chairs, crates and galvanized tub. I would put all this with the gauzy fabric to pretty up the vintage look.

And then aren't the drinks adorable in the wagon and wheelbarrow. I think it would be great for a 4th of July party.

What do you think?

For more Mosaic Monday posts go here.

2nd Time Around Tuesday

2010-03-17T09:12:00.000-07:00

Joining 2nd Time Around again today. Today I am sharing a couple of things that I love.
These are items that I have repurposed. I love taking vintage items and finding a new job for the them.

Here they are . . .

Two very old metal coolers

The red one I have had for a long time it was my Cowboys grandmothers

Cowboy repainted it recently because it was looking rather sad

The one on the right is a 7up cooler

I just got it free from a man cleaning out his garage

It was really rough so Cowboy sanded it

It's ready for new paint

I bet you wonder how I repurpose them

Well the red one holds the dog food

The 7up one holds the cat food

They make great closed containers I put a trash bag inside and pour the dog food in since I have big bags because I have a big dog.

I just put the entire bag of cat food in the other one and a few cans for treats

I hope you enjoyed visiting today. There is more 2nd time around fun over here.

Mosaic Monday and Simple Thing Challenge

2010-03-15T08:51:00.001-07:00

Today I thought I would share a few visions of spring. These are the things that make me thing spring. Flowers, bright Sunday mornings, Easter, rabbits (this is my Rhett Butler),digging in the dirt,rainbows and garage sales!

For more Mosaic's go over and visit here.

The Simple Thing that Rachel suggests today is to do minimum maintenance since it is spring break for most people. What she suggests is just 5 minutes or so in each room.

Here's a couple I am doing:

Hall bath --toilet only the rest can wait

Kitchen --clean counters and wipe down cabinet doors

Living room -- vacumn I can always dust and clean ceiling fans and windows another day when I have more time

Master bath -- just doing the toilet today

That's about all the minimum I am doing today. Along with getting all the laundry done and put away.

I hope your day is Happy remember you only have to do a little to make a difference.

Company Girl Coffee

2010-03-12T10:19:00.001-08:00

Well today I am having very sweet tea. So come in and join me and sit and rest awhile because I bet your week was just as busy as mine!

And, it is warmer here so the weather is o.k. for sweet tea.

My week was crazy. We are still looking for a house. I kept the grandbay on Monday which was the highlight of the week.

I did a few small things. I swept the floor. I put clothes away. And today I cleaned a pile of stuff of the dining room table. Files,books for ebay and stuff for Etsy. The dining rooom table is currently directly behind my computer table. .

I spent the week praying and asking God for direction.
I spent the week asking God 'Why?'. I spent the week attempting to be patient.

And then yesterday I had a yucky day. I won't go into detail but the yucky day and afternoon ended with this.

God gave me a rainbow and said every so softly. "It's all taken care of stop worrying."

I claimed that rainbow as my own. But today I share it with you in case you need something to make you smile or to remember that is its all taken care of. Because God is in control and he cares.

In case you've come by and haven't been to Rachel's you need to go there. Her blog is my inspiration. She will definately make you smile. And she is the organizer of the coffee run on over there and say 'hi'.

White Wednesday

2010-03-10T17:22:00.000-08:00

Today I am sharing a photo I borrowed from my friend Shell. I love her blog because she writes about her bunnies. I just noticed when I decided to post this photo that the pumpkin looks like it is velour or some kind of fabric with a nap. I think it is just lovely.

Shell is a wonderful designer of stitcheries. You really should go by and read her posts about her beautiful bunnies that live cage free in her white studio. Go here to visit!

I always love visiting her and reading about the bunny antics.

I know you'll love her stitcheries. And, she does give a ways too. I was a lucky winner one time too!

Thanks for coming by and seeing my borrowed White Wednesday photo! Click on the bold words to go right over there!

Wordfilled Wednesday

2010-03-10T06:55:00.000-08:00

Psalms 37:7
I couldn't help but use this verse with this photo. Oh it is so hard to be patient when your waiting to eat a sopapilla!
My daughter laughed as we were looking at photo's it seems I take most of my
photo's when he is eating.

A little like when we are not so patiently waiting for the Lord's direction.

If your waiting today just think about how sweet it will be when His direction is clear.

Rachel asked . . .

2010-03-09T15:30:00.000-08:00

Today Rachel at Home Sanctuary asked 'What do you collect?' I thought this was a fun topic. Actually she was encouraging us to tidy up, dust, clean whatever you need to do to your collections.
Since most everything I own is packed or about to be packed I didn't think I could share anything.

Then I walked through the dinning room and saw this.

What better collection to share?

I commented over at Rachel's this morning about my other collections of . . .

dinnerware

hearts

Snow Babies

Department 56 Villages

I hope you enjoyed seeing my little small collection.

And since they were all bought at yard sales I am linking up with 2nd Time Around.

Can you believe what you can find at a yard sale?

This is me . . .

2010-03-05T07:21:00.000-08:00

Tuckered out. My body and my mind are flattened out. Whipped out. Wrung out.

This has been a crazy week of house hunting. I have lost count of the houses we have driven by and man the miles we put on our car.

We have a unique situation in our house search:

We are in ministry. Our ministry doesn't show as a 'job' to most people. So they are concerned about our financial stability.
We hoped for a property that we could take our horse and 2 donkeys
We hoped for a property that would accomodate us and my mother if she chose to come and live with us.

We found a wonderful house yesterday afternoon that we LOVE yes I said LOVE.

Did I mention we LOVE it?

I won't go into all the reasons why this house is perfect for us. One is it is nice, really nice. The kitchen isn't updated. The bathrooms aren't updated. But that is o.k. with me. It has 2 living areas. An eating area in kitchen and a formal dining room. A pool and a hot tub.

Yes we LOVE this house!

And, it is minutes from our church so I could do ladies Bible study again. We could arrange our schedule to go on Wednesdays again and we could change our chapel service time a little and make it to at least part of Sunday School.

But with all good things sometimes there's a downside.

We cannot take our horse and the two mini donkeys. This is a huge sadness for me. And, has been a burden to me to even consider it. We have had the horse since he was 3. He is 22 now. We are looking for a Good home for him. We are willing to give him away to the right family.

Dear sweet Company Girl friends would ya'll pray for us. And please pray that God brings the right family to us for 'Pal'. We want him to be happy and to be well cared for.

I know this post didn't mention any simple things done this week. Mostly because I really didn't do any. Although I have read all of Rachel Anne's posts.

My kitchen sink was already done because I took everything out when the grandbaby started walking. So, I didn't log those points so girlfriends some of you are ahead of me.

I do plan to do something today for me. And I am considering it to be baking some bread. I have been doing some baking the last couple of weeks. I love baking bread!

I hope you all have a wonderful day treating yourselves.

Thanks for coming by and thanks for your prayers!

Doors, doors and more doors

2010-02-26T17:52:00.000-08:00

How I spent my week. Going through door after door and door. We looked at so many houses that my head is spinning. And, we are no where close to finding anything that suits us.

We looked at a horse property that had a pool and three stalls. They wanted an additional $500.00 per horse. Yes you heard me right. $500.00 per horse! That is crazy. On top of the $2,00.00 a month rent!

We looked at a property that would have been perfect. Enough room for us and my mother who is considering moving in with us. Which I have been praying and praying about.

That one leased before we could make an offer.

We looked at lake properties.

We looked at property after property after property and still nothing that would work for us and momma and our dog which is over 25 pounds. Our dog is over 50#'s.

Listing after listing says dog o.k. under 25 pounds.

Basically that was my week. I did get some boxes packed. I did get to play with the grandbaby on Monday.

I sort of stuck to the menu I planned for the week. Got sidetracked a couple of days.

I only did a couple of Rachel Anne's Simple Things. Although I read most of her posts. I was encouraging all of you guys that were better than I was this month.

Good luck for all you girls that logged points.

I hope next month I will do better. I don't think I have turned in points more than once or twice. So girls, I encourage you on. I am no competition to you. Rock on and log those points!

If you all would be kind enough to pray for us. We need to find a house!

I am praying for all you girls. Have a Blessed Weekend we Company Girls must unit!

2nd Time Around Tuesday/Mosaic Monday Disclaimer

2010-02-23T09:27:00.000-08:00

Welcome to 2nd Time Around Tuesday hosted by Diane. Today I am sharing one of my treasures that is truly a 2nd Time Around. In more ways than one.

First because I have shown this item before. But this is a fairly new blog and I have a lot of new visitors lately and I thought you would enjoy seeing it.
Second because it is a treasure.
Third because it really has been used in lots of different ways. I bet it has some good stories to tell.

So with no further ado here is my treasure.

This first photo shows it's second use after I bought it. This darling little table was used in our daughters wedding. What beautiful memories it holds from that day.

Now here it is just sitting by my reading chair in my living room (in the last house). I did nothing to this table. This is the way I found it at an antique mall. I love the chippy/shabby look.

You'll see it also in the next photo. My Mosaic Monday post.

And now I have to include a disclaimer from my Mosaic Monday post. I got a lot of wonderful comments yesterday about this.

Since we are moving soon we have been packing our stuff. And I have been seeing lots of houses. Yesterday I was doing some dreaming and so I pulled together some dream photo's I have been collecting.

I mentioned my style of decorating is kind of eclectic. Kinda Cowboy Chic I think would be the term. Someone commented 'Early Attic' I guess that kind of fits too.

My disclaimer is there is only one photo in this entire mosaic that is of my real house. Thanks for all the lovely sweet comments on "my house". But I have to admit it is only my "Dream House" so can't I really take credit. I did put all the elements together so if you really like my "Dream House" then I guess I am a decorator at least a wanna be. LOL.

OK here I am dreaming again. I can only imagine what I could come up with if I had an unlimited bank account! Wow.

Below as best I can I give credit to each. Or at least explain what I loved about the photo.

First the Salvaged Drawer cabinet. I am not sure where I found this. I do remember the blogger that posted it said it was from a shop in England. She didn't own it either it was from a magazine I think. Those are actually real drawers salvaged from other pieces. I think the cabinet itself was built around the drawers. I love the different knobs and the different colors.

I could see this in the babies room (grand baby) or possibly in the family room. Oh BTW I drool over the lamp.

I loved the simple fabric bow. Just a piece of gauzy looking fabric. Maybe muslin I am not sure. I stole this photo from another blogger. Please don't send the police. I will use this idea in the next house for Christmas next year. I love the simplicity. I remember she also did this bow on a wreath on the door. If I ever run across it again I'll be sure to add where I found it.

Now this is a magazine photo that I found on another blog. I suspect this is also a magazine shot. This one is truly a dream. I would love my oak table painted white. My Cowboy would never go with it though. He doesn't see the charm in painting good furniture white. Our chairs don't match out table so maybe at least I could paint them white.

But I also dream of painting them different colors too.... hmmm...what to do?

Oh now this one. I got tons of comments on this. No it is not my bed. I really don't even care for the head board and the lamps but I love love Love the linens. The bedspread is just dreamy and I have to copy this. Although I am wondering what it would look like layered.

The candles more wonderful comments on this one. And I have to admit again man someone is going to arrest me. I have no idea where this came from but I can say it is a copy of a Pottery Barn piece so I didn't feel too bad stealing this one. I just love it. It is a shelf extended from the ceiling this smart girl and her hubby made this. I want one!

When I look at new houses I am looking at the dining room and kitchen table areas to make sure this will fit!

This is a simple fall photo from Country Living. I just love the look.

So you see my style is oh so weird. I go from Shabby Romantic to Cowboy Chic to Rustic Cabin to Pottery Barn. There is some Traditional thrown in too.

I will tell you something you probably won't find is Contemporary. At least I don't think so.

I guess you'll find it hard to keep up with me so you'll just have to come back to keep up with my Journey to making my Home a Sanctuary.

Thanks for coming by and don't forget to visit Diane today.

Mosaic Monday

2010-02-22T09:07:00.000-08:00

Just a few photo's that inspire. My decorating I think can be described as crazy! I am a little shabby chic. A little Cowboy. A little of this and that. I love all these photo's and the pieces in each. Dreamy, dreamy items.

What are you dreaming of today? Need inspiration go to Mosaic Monday.

2010-02-19T13:48:00.000-08:00

As Rachel Anne said this morning where did the week go?
Actually in my case the last two weeks. The last time I posted seems like along time.
To speed things to the present. The house where I found the darling firetruck didn't work out.
So we have been spending our time looking again. At anything that is remotely possible. We drove today over an hour to see a house that was o.k. but we decided this area is just too far.
I guess it is ok because we are no where near packed. I did a bunch of boxes in the kitchen this week. And actually put some stuff in a sale or giveway pile. I didn't realize how many knives, mixing/wooden spoons I own. No wonder that drawer is always a pain to shut.
I have spent some time this week visiting a lot of blogs. I haven't had much to say and even on my other blog My Journey Back I have been at a loss for words. So I have visited a lot of places and found some wonderful decorating ideas and such; that I hope to use soon.
While visiting this wonderful blog I think it was called Home Town Girl I found a neat place called picnik.com. It is a place where you can make photo collages and do other stuff with your photos. I liked it except that I found with the free trial you can't do much. Here's what I did.

These are photo's from my 'white' folder. I love to decorate in white. I have seen so many houses that have the perfect rooms for white. But it is really, really hard to rent a house in our area. They are few and far between and apparently a lot of people trying for them.

I was going to put this photo in the collage but it wouldn't work. I just love this. It is dreamy to me. I would love to have a little place like this. Or at least a covered patio.

Basically my week has revolved around packing and looking for a house so rather borrowing. But hopefully next week I will take a few more photo's to share with you guys.

I did do some of Rachel's suggestions this week. It is so helpful to me to stay organized this way.

I loved her idea of cleaning the tub today and then taking a long bubble bath. But yesterday I filled our tub with boxes. So the bubbles will have to wait till the new house. Oh how I wish it has a squirt tub. AKA jetted tub!

May your weekend Be Blessed enjoy your bubble bathes

2nd Time Around/Tuesday Trade Days

2010-02-02T10:15:00.001-08:00

Today I am sharing something I got at a garage sale this weekend . . .

I wasn't sure if I could crop so I didn't try but is this firetruck not absolutely adorable. We paid $50.00 for it. It was to be the grandbabies birthday but Cowboy won't wait. We'll have it for him on the deck of the new house when he comes the first time.

It is actually in the new house that is where the garage sale was.

So your seeing the beautiful old hardwood floor in my new living room. And my daughters lovely hand and foot! LOL!

Back to the firetruck. The bell works and it has 4 ladders. It has pedals. The baby will be driving it around the deck and down our driveway when he is bigger. He'll probably want to pedal it next door. Soon I'll post photo's of our house and what is next door.

Hope everyone has a wonderful Tuesday. I still have the photo frame and the Pottery Barn

platter to trade if anyone is interested. The spools are gone. I'll change that post soon. I'll tryi to add some stuff today.

This morning I am posting some things on Etsy and packing when I run across more trade items I'll get them up.

There is a book give a way at my other blog go there and leave a comment to enter.

There are more 2nd time around posts at Diane's

Simple Thing and Praise

2010-02-02T07:37:00.000-08:00

I had to post this photo to go along with Rachel Anne's simple thing. Today she suggestes cutting tags of of things. Like the throw on the back of the chair. I originally took this photo the day she suggested straightening cushions and fluffing pillows.

For all you wonderfully Company Girls that prayed for me yesterday. We did find a house. Yea God! I am stressed about the finances and pulling money together for it so please continue to pray.

But the great thing is it fits us. It has almost everything I wanted. Including two covered porches and a gazebo. No squirt tub. Darn!
We aren't taking the animals. But the house is on a ranch. Hello. There will be 20 head of horses hanging around and I don't have to take care of them. Although I probably will because that is why she leased it to us because I can help out in emergencys. I am going over to show my daughter this morning so I'll take a few photo's before it gets 'lived in'.

Then when I come home I'll be clipping tags while I am packing.

I have a book giveway going on over here so go by and leave a comment to enter.

Mosaic Monday

2010-02-01T09:23:00.000-08:00

Welcome to Mosaic Monday today I am sharing some of the snowmen from my collection.
From left to right top row: Little snowman with green scarf and red backpack form Old Navy
Top row middle:little snowman with the broom hand made by my DIL next to it is a latern given to me by a friend
Top row far right: I think this is meant to be a candle holder. I just think it is cute.
Bottom right: a wire 3d ornament. I love this one. I think it came from Garden Ridge.
Bottom right middle: a hand made wooden ornament my father made. My mother wrote our names on it.
Bottom middle: This is an old one. If you open it and put a tiny candle inside the pipe actually puffs.
Bottom right: I just thought this little guy was cute. I don't even remember where I bought him.

You can go here to see my Winter Wonderland tablescape. And go here to visit Mosaic Monday.

Have a warm and cozy day.

Simple Thing Pray for each other

2010-02-01T08:53:00.000-08:00

I love Rachel Anne's simple thing today. It is so simple and something we all need I am sure. Today I am visiting the pray requests posted on her blog and comments.
May your day be Blessed.

Company Girl Coffee

2010-01-29T05:32:00.001-08:00

Good morning Company Girls come on in out of the rain! Yes it has been pouring all night. It began yesterday around noon and it is still coming down. Wow if it was really cats and dogs I would have a mangery! LOL.
It is warm and cozy . . .

here in my little house. This is the photo on my banner and I wanted to highlight it today as I tell you about my week.

On Tuesday our landlord called and asked Cowboy to come by. (we live right next door to his office) I always hate that I can tell when he has something bad to tell us. Andon Tuesday he did. He has been forced to sell our little house and so we have to move. He gave us 90 days but he did offer for the horse and donkeys to say here as long as we need to in case we can't find a house with acreage.

To say the least we were shell shocked. We kind of expected at least Cowboy did they talk alot so Cowboy knew it was probably going to be happening. I was just praying it would be months away.

We already had some meetings scheduled on Wednesday for ministry but Cowboy took a few minutes and started looking on the computer for houses. We drove by 4 on Wednesday afternoon. We did find 3 we have appointments to see on Sunday. Two definately have room for all the animals.

Let's what else did I do. Oh I finished and photographed my Winter table scape. Did you come by and see it. I posted it here. I spent most of Wednesday morning setting up a table scape for Table Scape Thursday to post at Between Naps On The Porch. It was a mexican theme table. I got if finished and photographed but after two afternoon meetings and then house looking I was too tired to post it. So it is in my archives (LOL that sounded fancy) and ready for posting another day. Maybe next week. I did show one of the photo's on my Thankful Thursday post over here.

I did pack the pottery that I used in the table scape since it was already so and that is a start.

And I cleaned out our home filing cabinet that was filled with mostly ministry stuff. I managed to fill two kitchen size bags. I laughed when I found a 1993 Dallas Mapsco. It had slid down under the files. I am not that bad! And I am not a hoarder. Well maybe I do hoard dishes but they are collectibles. And I do hoard fabric but it is for quilts which are important because it is so cold and so I need lots of quilts. I do have 3 boxes already packed with fabric ready to give away. But I dumped them out of the boxes and into bags to delivery because now I need the boxes.

I did one more thing this week. I did a Valentine display on my entry way table. I'll be showing it sometime next week. You'll have to come back because I am also offering some giveways and putting up more things on Trade Day Tuesday. ( BTW the antiques are gone I made a trade. )

I am off now to pack some more but I wanted to share a fun photo I found. If you want to hang around awhile I am working on the kitchen and I really do need the help before my daughter comes to help because she has already told me I need to get rid of some stuff. Would you guys please tell her about the file cabinet and donated fabric please?

Off to see Rachel Anne I'll be over to visit soon.

May you day be Blessed

Winter Wonderland Snowman Table Scape

2010-01-27T06:48:00.001-08:00

Welcome to my Winter Wonderland
I have been planning this tablescape for awhile

but

I haven't had a chance to pull it together

but

yesterday I did

and

tomorrow

Snow is expected

Some things are chippy some are not. Can you see the architectural pedestal at the back. That is the one I got from a garage sale. It ended up in my garden till I was inspired by White Wednesday to bring it in.

Do you see the little snowman on the top shelf with the blue hat. He is really, really old but he was well cared for. Not one chip on him. The Santa is here because he is a snowglobe so we let him stay.

Here's a different angle. You can see some of the other pieces better. Some are candles some are just simple little snow men and ladies. I love the little stacking boxes way over the on the left.

Of course I had to add my little sign. I love him. My Cowboy always tells me to put him back in the boxes because he hates cold!

I hope you've enjoyed this little visit. I am thinking of taking some close up photo's for Mosaic Monday. Come on back and you can see some of my ornaments.

Don't forget to stop over at Faded Charm Cottage for more white posts and inspiration.

Have a wonderfully White and Blessed Day

2nd Time Around/Tuesday Trade Days

2010-01-26T08:31:00.000-08:00

Thanks for stopping in. Today I put the Welcome mat out because I hope I have lots and lots and lots of visitors. I am going to be doing a lot of visiting today so I hope everyone comes over here to see what I have to trade. Click on the button on my sidebar. But before you look at the trade I wanted to share my 2nd Time Around treasure . . .

Someday soon this will be a really cool candle holder. Can you guess what it was? I bet you already guessed. But just in case I'll give you a couple of hints. See the little round hole at the bottom there in the middle of that curve? Now look way up at the top there is another hole about the same size. Opp's I can see the second photo. . . I need to move that down so you can keep guessing. OK. I don't think you can see it now. Keep guessing and I'll tell you where I got it.

I actually received this from QVC we used to buy damaged, return and removed from stock items from QVC and we sold them on Ebay it was quite lucrative. Somethings were too damaged to sell but some things were new and perfect like this item. At least it was before I got my hands on it.

Did you figure it out yet. Well you can problem see the photo from here. Yes it was a lamp.

It was really funny shaped see it has two light bulbs. The shade was glass and it is or was a tiffany reproduction. It was pink and coral. I really didn't like. We never put it up for sale because of shipping costs. It is heavy! Well I tried to give it away a couple of times no one wanted it. I tried to sell it in a rummage sale for $20.00 someone offered $4.00 I said no. Now this thing is heavey and was really nice. Until . . .

The deer head that was hanging on the wall next to it fell off and broke it. Yup this dumb deer hit the lamp and knocked it to the floor. Shade broke. So now I am turning it into a candle stand. I think it will look great when I find just the right piece for the top.

I actually thought it would be easy to take apart but I had to get Cowboy to help. This thing was not cheaply made! It was in two sections and then the light kit was secureeeeeeeeeeed inside. He worked on it for thirty minutes getting it apart!

Anyway I hope you have enjoyed the visit. Come back Thursday for my tablescape. I have been working on it already. The table cloth is already on the table and I was auditioning plates Go back up to the photo and you'll see it.

We'll be having a mexican luncheon oh I guess around 11:00 or so for appetizers. See you then.

Before you go please check out my trade items. I have decided I really want some fat chunky white candles so if you like any or all of the items I will trade. If you have something you want to get rid of let me know.

What to do with this table? Skirt or no Skirt?

2010-01-25T12:20:00.000-08:00

I need some ideas for my table. This is actually an antique library table. This photo is the shot of the legs. Underneath is the ottoman to my chair and some books of the babies.

This shot shows sort of what it looked like at Christmas. At this point I am taking everything off and putting away. The boxes are on the floor beside it. During Christmas the throw actually completely covered the ottoman underneath so you couldn't see it.

This a little better shot to show you how much space is underneath. Beside it is a lamp I'll show tomorrow. Don't look to closely at now. LOL.

O.K. here's where I need help. It now sits at the end of my dining room table and fits perfeclty there. When it isn't decorated seasonally I'll use it as a buffet or to display dishes.

Here's what I am wondering . . .

Oh wait before you start getting all excited yes I am seriously considering painting it black but that is another post. Not there yet.

What I am wondering is what it would like with a skirt velcroed to the edge to hide stuff underneath?

Any ideas anyone. You can see colors of the ottoman deep dark reds, dark greens. The walls are yellow. Anyone have an idea of what I should use? Or should I just make a big covering to cover the whole thing? What's your suggestion? And, do you think I should paint it black?

Company Girl Coffee

2010-01-22T06:25:00.001-08:00

Are you guys sure it's Friday. LOL. All week I have been getting my days mixed up.

I had a busy and very productive week but still have lots on my list of things I want to accomplish.

I kept the grandbaby on Monday and then on Tuesday he started pre-school. We took lots of photo's before they left. He did great and loved playing with the other kids.

This week I haven't left the house much which is pretty helpful because I don't have to get too dressed up and I can get a lot done. I am in the process of moving some rooms around. It is confusing to explain but I'll try. My sewing room is becoming our t.v. family room. Moving the t.v. from the main living room and the love seat to the sewing room. My husband has his own room with a nice chair and ottoman and a pinball machine and game table. All that is going into what is now the sewing room. And, I am taking over his room for my sewing room. On Wednesday I moved a big antique wardrobe from the sewing room into the dining room half of our current living room. Then yesterday I moved the matching dresser. I'll have to do a virtual tour whens it's done. I am much happier with this arrangement. And I think Cowboy will be too once he gets used to it.

I am finishing up my furniture moving today then tonight I am going to participate in Friday Sew In and spend as long as I can stay awake sewing. I think I am just going to start a donation quilt with some strips already cut. It'll be quick and I can post a lot tomorrow!

Well that was my week except for all the Simple Things I did. I had to laugh a couple of days I was a day ahead of Rachel. Good thing I am not really logging points. Here's the run down

Man oh Man did I have some stragglers. I even found a couple more yesterday! I had Christmas decoration stragglers, socks (I tend to wear socks to bed then take them off in the middle of the night. I found a mound in my bed!), found toys the baby shooved under the couch, coats laying across this dumb window in our entry. Yes it is dumb. I'll share more another time.

Then I tackled crumbs. Girls I have done that toaster recently because Rachel said to but you wouldn't believe the crumbs. I shook it. I banged it. I opened the litte door and wiped it out. Got a pastry brush and wiped some more. I still couldn't get the ones inside. I was going to go get the hair dryer and tackle it again. And got distracted with something else. When I came back Cowboy had put it away. Miracles do happen girls! I left it in it's new place of honor crumbs and all!

I promise I did try to be nice to someone but there wasn't anyone around here on Wednesday. I think I did call my mother I usually call her everyday. Does that count? And I cooked Cowboys dinner.

And then yesterday I intended to attack shoes but we had a major frustration. I had just finished moving the dresser I was talking about and Cowboy called. The transmission went out in our truck. This is the vehicle we use for ministry. And I had to stop what I was doing get dressed with makeup and go pick him up at our office. Ended up staying there all afternoon working in the pantry storage and boxing up food for next week. (Please pray for us that we can raise the money we need to get it fixed. )

So that was my week. I'll be coming by today to visit you guys. Oh I am sorry I forgot I have some Coke Zero and Cowboy has some coffee brewed. Stay awhile and check out my Tuesday Trade Days. Wanna trade?