Quest for Common Sense

Sky Watch Friday

2012-01-27T14:00:00.003-06:00

Post your Picture on SkyWatch too.

Word Jumble--Eye Tricks

2012-01-26T08:00:00.000-06:00

I found this Word Jumble at eyetricks.com.

Can you read it?

Aoccdrnig to rscheearch at Cmabrigde Uinervtisy, it deosn't mttaer in waht oredr the ltteers in a wrod are, the olny iprmoatnt tihng is taht the frist and lsat ltteer be at the rghit pclae. The rset can be a toatl mses and you can sitll raed it wouthit a porbelm. Tihs is bcuseae the huamn mnid deos not raed ervey lteter by istlef, but the wrod as a wlohe.

It's amazing what the brain can do.

Would You Like to Make a Collect Call?

2012-01-19T08:00:00.000-06:00

People will steal ANYTHING. I'm not sure what someone would do with a public telephone, but apparently they MUST have had some use in mind. What do you think they used it for?

New Camera Bag

2012-01-10T10:55:00.000-06:00

My Camera found a new home. I contemplated getting a big, bulky, over the shoulder camera bag. You know the kind I'm talking about. After looking at all the different kinds, I decided that we do enough hiking, skiing, traveling, and exploring to justify a camera backpack.

So far I've been very pleased with it.

Declutter, Declutter, Declutter

2012-01-07T10:59:00.000-06:00

I'm deffinately one of those people who relies on gadgets and gizmos, to help keep me organized. My counter tops and drawers are deffinately thankful for my tool Turn-A-Bout. I'm all for anything that keeps things in order and life running more smoothly.

New Blog: You can find me here.

2012-01-04T15:32:00.001-06:00

I decided to open up a blog for all our Colorado Adventure and Beyond. If you'ld like to see the places we've been, and the places we hope to go . . . click on over, and join in our fun.

Happy New Year

2012-01-01T11:14:00.000-06:00

Shed a Little Light on the Subject

2011-12-27T10:44:00.000-06:00

For what ever reason, lamps don't last forever. So when it came time to look for a new one, I was delighted to find one that matched my decore perfectly. Its a "raindrops on roses" kind of a thing.

Merry Christmas

2011-12-24T10:39:00.000-06:00

Hope you all enjoy getting together with family and friends, giving gifts, participating in all your holiday traditions, but most of all remebering that manger from long ago where Jesus was born in Bethlehem. Tiss the reason for the season.

Merry Christmas.

Indoor Gardening

2011-12-20T10:30:00.000-06:00

I try to extend my growing season as long as possible. This year I brought in some Spinach and Zinnias. So far they're still growing.

Magnificent Mountains

2011-12-16T15:20:00.000-06:00

What is it about a cold, hard mass of dirt and rock rising from earth, that can captivate us so?

People travel from far and near, to take in their wonder.

Mountains:

Beautiful,

Magestic,

Captivating &,

Wonderous.

A sight I never tire of taking in.

What's Cook'n?

2011-12-13T15:12:00.000-06:00

Some of you are avid coffe drinkers. Just admit it, when ou get a scrape or a cut, you bleed coffee right?

Steve deffinately falls in that catagory. My coffee tastes on the other hand, tend to run in the sweeter catagory. So with the goal of mixing our two tastes, I like to keep an eye out for delicious coffee flavored desserts.

To all you Chocolate lovers and Coffee lovers alike. Here's a FANTASTIC brownie recipe, Tiramisu Brownie Squares made in in my Rectangular Stoneware Baker. They're Delicious!

The Twelve Days After Christmas

2011-12-12T19:41:00.000-06:00

I sang this song with my high school choir for a Christmas Concert. It was a great deal of fun, and still brings me a chuckle. My girls thought it was hillarious. If you'ld like to hear it, I found it here.

Twelve Days After Christmas

The first day after Christmas my true love and I had a fight,

And so I chopped the pear tree down and burned it just for spite.

Then with a single cartridge, I shot that blasted partridge,

My true love, my true love, my true love gave to me.

The second day after Christmas, I pulled on the old rubber gloves,

And very gently wrung the necks of both the turtle doves.

The first day after Christmas my true love and I had a fight,

My true love, my true love, my true love gave to me.

The third day after Christmas, my mother caught the croup;

I had to use the three Frech hens to make some chicken soup.

The four calling birds were a big mistake,

for their language was obscene.
The five gold rings were completely fake and they turned my fingers green .

The sixth day after Christmas, the six laying geese wouldn't lay,

I gave the whole darn gaggle to the A.S.P.C.A.

On the seventh day what a mess I found,

All seven of the swimming swans had drowned.

My true love, my true love, my true love gave to me.

The eighth day after Christmas, before they could suspect,

I bundled up the eight maids a milking, nine pipers piping, Ten ladies dancing, 'leven lords a leaping, Twelve drummers drumming and sent them back collect.

I wrote my true love, "We are through, love",

and I said in so many words,

"Furthermore your Christmas gifts were for the birds!"

Getting Organized

2011-12-09T08:00:00.000-06:00

With my growing supply of pampered chef products, I was starting to feel like the next episode of hoarders . . . well not quite that bad, but I was running out of places to put things.

{FYI: I have donated several of my non Pampered Chef items to a second hand store}

So in addition to donating, Steve got me this beautiful storage pantry. It's the perfect solution for my disorganized mess.

Dieting and Excercize

2011-12-06T09:44:00.000-06:00

As the summer month wane, Thanksgiving has come and gone, we begin to think about trying to lose those pesky holiday lbs. They seem to sneak back when we're not looking.

I worked hard all spring and summer, losing 20 lbs, with a low-carb diet, and I deffinately don't want to see them come back.

So my plan is to use this eliptical I picked up this summer at a yard sale, for the fantastic price of just $25. At the time, it got stashed my back office, where I used it maybe twice.

In my endevour to keep off those unwanted lbs. I've moved my eliptical to the living room, where I will see it every day, and hopefully be inspired to use it more regularly.

What's your holiday weight plan? Do you both fear and anticipate those yummy holiday goodies?

Canning: A Labor of Love

2011-12-02T20:49:00.000-06:00

Every year, when canning season rolls around, I enter it with mixed feelings.

Tantilizing aromas filling the air, the anticipation of tasting the first Strawberry Rhubarb Jam of the season,

Apple Slicer/Peeler/Corer

trying out fun new kitchen tools,

Core and More

(all of which make life easier*of course*)

Knife Block

We're on the cutting edge around here.

Little hands helping hands.

Looks like she found a new use for my new toy.

A new canning book with new recipes to try.

The only downs side is the long hours standing at the stove.

If only they could come up with a tool to make that one aspect easier, I'ld be thrilled.

What did you make this year?

These are the things we made:

Tomatillo Salsa
Green Chilli
Salsa Verde
Spagetti Sauce
Tomato Salsa
Green Tomato Chutney
Apple Rhubarb Chutney
Mango Chutney
Strawberry Rhubarb Jam

Bargain Hunting

2011-11-29T14:45:00.000-06:00

Perhaps its finding the unique mixed with the every day, or the wonder of what I might find...

Most deffinately, I'm lured by the thrill of the hunt.

Bargains and treasures are the things I acquire when again and again, I find myself strolling the isles of a New to You Shop or Second Hand Store.

Do YOU Re-Use and Re-cycle in this Super practical way? What TREASURES have you brought home with you?

This was my favorite find this SUMMER.

Happy Thanksgiving

2011-11-24T10:15:00.000-06:00

Things I'm thankful for:

A warm bed
A family who loves me
Four healhty girls
Reliable transportation
A husband who fills my car with gas.
Wonderful friends.
A God who loves me
My own health
The ability to enjoy life
People to laugh with
People to cry with
People to discuss the finer points of life with
My book collection. I love to sit down and read when I have time.
My paintbrush and paints--for artistic expression.
The freedom to choose life, liberty and persuit of happiness.

Summer Memories

2011-11-21T14:18:00.000-06:00

When the days get colder, and snow covers the ground.

I might be curled up on the couch in a blanket, next to the cornstove, with a book in my hands, but that doesn't stop my thought from drifting to warm memories of summer.

Visions of Buttercups, Daylillies, Shasta Daisies, Perenial Geraniums, Roses, and all my other flowery friends.

Though I can always find the enjoyment in every season. Summer is deffinately my favorite.

What's yours?

From the Kitchen

2011-11-18T14:03:00.000-06:00

This is annother one of those dishes, that take a little extra effort.

I believe the end result is worth the effort. My rectangle stone is deffinately a favorites when it comes to making Chicken. End of the garden zucchini, is a great companion for Chicken Cordon Blu

I'm going to have to make it again soon.

More Fall Color

2011-11-15T08:00:00.000-06:00

This was an unplaned trip to Leadville. Obviously, I didn't want to waste my opportunity to snap a few more pictures of aspens in their prime.

These pictures were taken fairly late in the day, so they're a little dark.

I think they still turned out ok.

The fading sunlight may actually even add a little something.

What do you think?

Fall Color

2011-11-11T08:02:00.000-06:00

Our annual trip to see fall color took us through Castlerock this year. Stve had a store inventory in that area around that time, so he had a preview of what we would see.

Yes, I know, the snow has come and gone, and come again. I'm a little late posting these, but they say better late than never.

This beauty is putting on a spectacular show.

Our animal friends need to learn to get along. I could proably same for some of the half sized passengers in our car at times :D

At any rate, we still enjoyed the scenery, despite the occasional backseat squable.

Is Your "Norm" Normal?

2011-11-03T22:54:00.005-05:00

It seems some days that my life is a bit chaotic. Actually most days it is all out crazy non-stop from the time I get up to the time I fall asleep. I often reassure myself that someday circumstances will change somehow and things will be normal. At that point though, I have to stop and ponder, "If chaos is what normally happens, is that normal?" What I mean is, if things were ever to start being "normal" I probably wouldn't recognize them as that, but something different than what I find to be normal. Where am I going with this? If what generally happens in our life is the norm, then if our life is normally chaos, then that is normal. If that is normal, than what does it mean when in frustration we wish that our life was normal. Usually the best coarse of action is not to search for a "normal" life, but to find structure in the "normalness" of my life and make the best of it. If there are circumstances I can change to relieve the chaos then make the changes, if it is out of my control, adapt! I find assurance the fact that "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." Were it not for this reinforcement I know I would not be able to make it! SB

Mini Chocolate Tiramisu Cakes

2011-10-22T23:44:00.000-05:00

These are fantastic. They're pretty easy to make, and the Mini Muffiin Tin, is perfect for these bite size tasties. The Stackable Cooling Rack is very handy too. Here's the recipe, if you'ld like to try them yourself.

Basement Remodel

2011-10-08T08:59:00.000-05:00

Has it really been that long since I posted? Wow, guess it's been a busy couple months. As you can see, we've been busy with a remodel project, among other things.

We put our tax return to good use, and paid our friend Chris, to get our basement in a timely fashion.

I'm so thankful to have it done. A couple days without access to laundry facilities and the laundry loads sure do pile up around here.

No matter. The guys did a beautiful job, and I'm so thankful to have it all done.

Don't you think they did a fantastic job?

Love Birds

2011-09-20T20:59:00.000-05:00

Two turtle doves decided to build a nest in my gazebo this year. She sits so patiently in her nest. I keep waiting to hear little cheeps coming from the nest. I wonder how long it will be.

What are Some of Your Favorite Things?

2011-09-09T17:32:00.000-05:00

It can be something special, just from this week, or something that always makes you happy.

Flowers happen to be something that always bring a smile to my face. The spectacular view in the background deffinately adds to this picture.

Road Rage

2011-08-26T09:48:00.007-05:00

All of us have been the victim or the perpetrator of road rage at some point or another. The simple fact is, we share the road with countless other cars. You will merge in front of someone, and someone will merge in front of you. That's life.

An incident that happened yesterday afternoon on the way home from picking up the girls from school, caused me to reflect on this topic. Generally the things that other drivers do doesn't really get under my skin. I sometimes talk to other drivers (as if they could really hear :D ). I say things like . . . "can't you wait your turn," or "come on, let me in, I need to get over," but I would never dream of following someone home. I never thought anyone else would follow me home either.

Yesterday afternoon some lady did. I was shocked! I simply couldn't believe someone would be so angry because I pulled into the space in front of her. Apparently she was. She told me I should be ashamed for putting my kids in danger, threatened to call the police for a citizens arrest, and to call pampered chef (she saw the logo on the side of my van) and tell them what a worthless person I was.

Wow, that's A lot of anger! "Lady, whoever you are, I'm sorry if cut you off," but really... was all that necessary?

What do you all think?

Was it necessary to follow me home?

What did it accomplish?

What would you do if someone followed you home?

Perhaps you're an angry driver.

What's the extent of your road rage?

I would love to hear about your experiences.

More Colorado Waterfalls.

2011-08-18T18:58:00.004-05:00

We did a little hiking while the girls were gone at grandma's.

I don't know what this waterfall is called, but you can see it from I-70.

Steve convinced me it would be a simple climb.

From here it doesn't look that bad. . .

Let me assure you, from HERE, the hike didn't seem quite so simple. After a couple slips of the foot, I was starting to wonder if I might take the quick trip to the bottom. By QUICK, I mean rapid, unplanned decent. One I definately didn't want to take. Suddenly I became shaky, that weak, sick feeling flowed through me and I couldn't move. My heart was pounding and my legs felt like rubber. I was beginning to wonder if I should become a hermit and take up residence on the first rock I found, that didn't move under my feet. Some how we made it to stable ground. I'm sure I sat there for five minutes before my heart stopped pounding, and then slowly began our decent. We took a different route down. It was much easier, and SEE I lived to tell about it. Aren't you proud of me?

Swim with the Mermaids

2011-07-26T15:41:00.003-05:00

When I asked stacie if she'ld rather have a birthday party with all her friends or swim with the mermaids at the downtown aquarium. The answer was SWIM WITH THE MERMAIDS!!! So that's what she did :D

All the girls except Shiloh got in on the fun. The staff did an excellent job. We had lunch and birthday cake in the restaurant after the swim. Deffinately a great way to do a birthday party.

Twelve Years Rounded out with a BIG SPLASH!

2011-07-24T21:08:00.000-05:00

Steve and I have talked about white water rafting for years. It's something I've wanted to try since I was fifteen. So it seemed like something fun, new, and exciting to do for our Aniversary.

We're celebrating twelve years with a BIG SPLASH! The girls went to grandma's leaving us free to do something not quite so kid friendly.

The river was high and running quite fast. (7cubic feet per second)

I must say[sheepish grin] I was a little nervous to start out, but the guides were great.

They told us exactly what to do, so even when we broadsided a huge rock, we knew exactly what to do. WE DIDN'T EVEN FLIP THE BOAT!

Rowing was tough to synchronize at first, but Lee out trusty guide shouted out "forward one--forward two ect."

It was a total rush, even when the waves completely engulfed us.

I can't believe I'm saying this (chicken that I am . . .)

but I'ld go again in a heart beat.

Thank's for a great ride Liquid Descent.

Horses :D

2011-07-20T18:20:00.001-05:00

More Pictures of my Dream House

2011-07-13T17:51:00.003-05:00

What's cook'n?

2011-07-01T15:36:00.000-05:00

This Asian Cobb Salad was so much fun to make. I had the girls help me cut up the vegitables and arrange them on the platter.

Asian Cobb Salad
Ingredients:
1/2 cup (125 mL) lite Asian vinaigrette salad dressing
3 tbsp (45 mL) Asian Seasoning Mix, divided
1 tbsp (15 mL) reduced-fat peanut butter
1 bag (6 oz/175 g) fresh baby spinach leaves (about 4 cups/1 L)
2 ripe mangoes
1/2 medium seedless cucumber
1 cup (250 mL) snow peas, trimmed
1 small red onion
4 radishes
1 1/4 lbs (575 g) boneless, skinless chicken breast
1 tbsp (15 mL) vegetable oil
1/4 cup (50 mL) dry-roasted peanuts (optional)

Directions:
1. For dressing, combine vinaigrette, 1 tbsp (15 mL) of the seasoning mix and peanut butter in Small Batter Bowl; whisk well using Stainless Whisk and set aside.

2. For salad, rinse spinach; spin dry using Salad & Berry Spinner. Arrange spinach over Large Bamboo Platter, mounding slightly. Dice mangoes (see Cook's Tip). Dice cucumber and thinly slice peas on a diagonal using Santoku Knife. Slice onion crosswise using Ultimate Mandoline fitted with adjustable slicing blade on thin setting; cut rings in half. Thinly slice radishes using mandoline; cut slices into strips. Top spinach with even sections of cucumber, onion, peas, radishes and mangoes, leaving a space for chicken.

3. Heat Grill Pan and Grill Press over medium heat 5 minutes. Brush chicken with oil using Chef's Silicone Basting Brush. Sprinkle chicken with remaining seasoning mix. Place chicken in pan; cover with press and cook 4–5 minutes on each side or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Remove chicken from pan; thinly slice and place over salad. If desired, coarsely chop peanuts using Food Chopper; sprinkle over salad. To serve, drizzle dressing over salad and toss using Bamboo Salad Claws.

Yield: 6 servings (about 9 cups/2.1 L)

Nutrients per serving: (about 1 1/2 cups/375 mL): Calories 250, Total Fat 8 g, Saturated Fat 1 g, Cholesterol 50 mg, Carbohydrate 24 g, Protein 22 g, Sodium 450 mg, Fiber 4 g

Cook’s Tips: To easily peel and cut mango into wedges, cut off top and bottom of mango to form a flat base; stand upright. Use the Mango Wedger to remove flesh. Cut flesh from skin using Avocado Peeler.

© 2011 The Pampered Chef used under license.

Just Because

2011-06-24T15:33:00.000-05:00

Look what showed up at my doorstep the other day!

Chicken Parmesean

2011-06-17T15:31:00.001-05:00

From the Garden

2011-06-10T15:29:00.000-05:00

Anemones ar so cheerful. They make me smile.

What's Cook'n?

2011-06-04T15:26:00.000-05:00

This is my new favorite dessert!!! They're so easy to make!!!

From the Garden

2011-05-27T16:23:00.000-05:00

I love it when my Irises start to bloom. They smell just heavenly.

Backpack

2011-05-02T11:14:00.000-05:00

She loves her back pack as much as Dora The Explorer does.

Cinzzetti's

2011-04-25T10:49:00.000-05:00

I've only been to Cinzzetti's one other time with my sibblings. It was a real treat to be able to return, this time with Steve.

He loves to eat a buffets. Cinzzetti's puts a different spin on the normal buffet attmosphere. I had a wonderful time and will deffinately try to go again.

The Bed Wedge Pillow

2011-04-21T11:00:00.000-05:00

We just recently purchased a couple of these. They're fantastic. For all of you who like to read or watch tv from the comfort of your bed. This is a must have. I am very pleased with mine.

Disney On Ice

2011-04-18T09:15:00.000-05:00

We took the girls to Disney On Ice. It's something they've been wanting to do for a while.

So this year, we decided the time was right. (Some of the pictures turned out a little fuzzy. Sorry!)

They really enjoyed the show.

Lindsey was messmerized(sp?).

I went to Icecapades when I was in about second grade, and still remember all the fun and excitement. It was fun sharing a similar experience with my girls.

Mataam Fez

2011-04-11T10:00:00.001-05:00

On our honeymoon, Steve and I went to a Moroccan Restauraut. I loved everything about the experience. Sitting on the floor, eating with your hands, the atmosphere . . . It was great. Ever since, I've been dieing to repeat the experience.

Well I finally got my chance.

We went to Mataam Fez for date night. Something we've been trying to do a little more often. Deffinately a must do if you visit Denver.

Colorado Railroad Museum

2011-04-04T09:33:00.002-05:00

More free days. Colorado Railroad Museum is a great place to go for all you train fanatics.

So many interesting things to see.

The best part was the train ride. This particular contraption is called a "galloping goose." It was a product of the depression area in an attempt to cut cost and stave off bankruptsy. They took existing road vehicles and made them rail worthy.

Several pieces were open so the kids could climb up in them.

We followed up our our adventure with a trip to Souper Salad in keeping with my diet.

Rocky Mountain Horse Expo

2011-03-28T10:25:00.000-05:00

Horses and Princesses are very popular around my house. With four girls running around here, I'm sure that's not a surprise to you. The Rocky Mountain Horse Expo, was a great hit with the older two. Two and a Half hours was a little long for the younger two. Should we happen to attend next year, I'll definitely hire a babysitter for those who don't like to sit very long.

The show was quite interesting. I had no idea horses could dance.

Nor that they could be trained like a dog.

Imagine training a horse to sit. Apparently that's what some Australian Horse trainers do.

What a beautiful and imaginative performance. Very intriguing.

Time to Lighten the Load

2011-03-22T22:33:00.002-05:00

Three weeks ago, I started a diet. My friend Candace had her son maybe a month after I had Shiloh. She quickly lost all those baby lbs. Upon inquiry she filled me in on all the details of her fabulous diet. In practice with my general conduct, it took me a while to take action, but I finally decided to take the jump. I'm sure you all remember, my attempt to lose a few lbs. by excercizing a while back. . . to no avail. I thought I would end in similar defeat this time around(I know, I'm such a skeptic), but in fact, I HAVE SUCH WONDERFUL NEWS TO SHARE!!!!

10 LBS!!!

Yes, in just three short weeks. I truly can't believe it. No, I didn't follow her diet exactly, I kindof came up with my own. I more or less cut the carbs out of my diet. Candace went on a raw diet. I didn't think I could manage to cut both meats and carbs out of my diet, so I didn't. I guess I've fudged a little on breadding on fried meat, and I still eat tortillas on occasion, but for the most part, I've managed to stick to my diet for 3 weeks now.

Every time I'm tempted to give it up, I lose another lb. Its so exciting to finally see some results. What an exciting feeling, to have your jeans fit loosely again!!! I couldn't help sharing my achievements with all of you:D

Simple Womans Daybook

2011-03-11T11:19:00.003-06:00

If you would like to join in the fun, go here.

FOR TODAY
Outside my window... hyacints beginning to poke their way out of the ground. I'm so excited spring is on its way.
I am thinking... how wonderful it would be to take a walk this afternoon.
I am thankful for... Sunshine.
From the kitchen... I'm on a new diet. No carbs, so lots of fruit, veggies, and meat.
I am wearing... yup I'm still in my jammies.
I am creating... a new painting. The Boulder Co foothills a springtime farm scene with cows, trees an a little water in the field. I hope I can do it justice. It's been quite a while since I started a new painting.
I am going... nowhere. It's simply marvelous.
I am reading... The practice of Godliness~ Jerry Bridges.
I am hoping... not a whole lot.
I am hearing... the sound of children playing on the floor.
Around the house... lots of housework and laundry. Its a never ending job.
One of my favorite things... Spring Flowers.
A few plans for the rest of the week: There's not much left of this week. Railroad Days in Golden tomorrow. Maybe we'll head over there to see what it's all about.
Here is picture for thought I am sharing...(add your picture here)

Bringing the Outdoors In

2011-03-11T08:00:00.000-06:00

A Marriage Conference.

2011-03-09T08:45:00.000-06:00

Valentines weekend we were able to attend a Marriage Conference called the Art of Marriage. It was very good. I even learned a few things :D

A Budding Seamstriss.

2011-03-07T08:39:00.001-06:00

Charity got a sewing machine for Christmas.

It's been so much fun, teaching her to sew.

Visit with Grammy

2011-03-04T08:13:00.000-06:00

I deffinately can't go to Florida without visiting my Grammy. Calahan sure is nice this time of year. Do you see her Camilas blooming in the background? Deffinately one of those tropicals I'ld love to be able to grow up here where it's cold.

Impressive Architecture~Celebration Orlando

2011-03-02T08:56:00.000-06:00

Castillo de San Marcos

2011-02-28T08:36:00.000-06:00

Among the first of the european buildings built on this continent, Castillo de San Marcos
stands firm reminding us of our history and how we came to be here. One of the few forts to retain the title of undefeated, it served its purpose to protect its builders.

It sure is an impressive sight.

Cold, hard, solid, stones rigid in their stance.

Massive and impressive.

Enough to make you stop and ponder days gone by.

Here's the link should you wish to do some further reading.

The Run-a-Away Carriage

2011-02-25T08:00:00.001-06:00

When we think of a horse drawn carriage ride, we sometimes forget that the mystic creatures pulling the carriages might get spooked.
It could have been all the other cars,
it could have been all the tourist,
it could have been the music blaring from the loud speakers at the restaurant across the street,
or the canon demonstration going on at the fort...
I suppose we'll never know, but something scared our four legged friend and it was obvious he was not going to stop as it appeared he was gathering speed instead of slowing for the upcoming redlight. With nowhere else to go, the carriage driver headed over the curb, and up the grassy hill tward the fort. For a minitute I though he might be headed my direction, and started to look for a place to run to. Fortunately a bystander knew just what to do.

He jumped up and grabbed the reins. I thought the carriage driver was going to have a heart attack. As soon as the wheels came to a stop he leaped from the carriage, and tumbled to the ground. I'm sure that day was not on his list of top ten days of the year.

Poor guy. It made for an interesting story for this happy-go-lucky tourist, though. You deffinately don't see something like that happen everyday.

St. Augustine ~ Lighthouse.

2011-02-23T08:01:00.000-06:00

I guess, I'm one of those person's who like going to the same places over and over again. Yes, I did visit the lighthouse on my last trip to Florida, so I hope you'll forgive me for putting up another picture of it.

Palm trees make such a nice backdrop for a picture. I couldn't resist capturing one of my sister.

She returned the favor and got one of me.

St. Augustine Beach

2011-02-21T08:45:00.000-06:00

You can't go to Florida, without visiting the beach.

This is my sister Tammy, who was so kind to let me come visit.

Yes, I like to take pictures of ramdom people, strolling along the beach. Maybe someday, when I'm a famous artist (ha ha ~ I wish), they will find themselves in one of my paintings, hanging on the wall in an art gallery somewhere.

I thought this shot was also quite picturesque.

Florida Pictures II ~Winter Garden

2011-02-18T08:35:00.000-06:00

Winter Garde is such a quaint little tourist town. It reminds me of Estes Parks.

I love little get-a-ways like that.

Maybe a little off the beaten path, but deffinately worth the effort.

Florida Pictures

2011-02-16T13:11:00.004-06:00

Apparently Florida is just finishing up with orange season.

My sister is so fortunate to have a couple lakes within riding distance of her house, so I did the tourist thing and took some pictures. A nice gentle man was kind enough to point out some alligators. Unfortunately I thougth he was pointing at some birds.

It wasn't till he showed the big one, that I actually realized we were looking at alligators.
I guess durning the winter, the middle of the day is the best time to go alligator scouting. They like to bask in the sun. What an opportunity for a silly Northern Girl. I felt like I was experiencing the Discovery Channel first hand.

Don't you just love this beautiful old tree with the spanish moss draped over it like tinsle?

When I look at this picture, it makes me want to go for a walk. Such a beautiful path.

Datona Beach

2011-02-07T08:18:00.002-06:00

I guess I forgot to mention, I was heading for Florida. It was quite a trip. I spent a few days with my sister in Orlando, then we headed up the coast to see my grandma stopping at various points along the way. I guess it won't be a surprise, when I say I had a wonderful time.

I didn't really get any pictures of Datona Beach. It was too dark by the time we got there. I was able to lighten up a picture of the sign. Not a great picture, but passable.

This is Datona Bay area.

A cute little park, with a walking path.

I got a little picture happy with the palm trees.

Must be my northern roots showing through.

Creative Corner

2011-02-04T05:13:00.000-06:00

I got stacie a tye-dye kit for Christmas. It was great fun creating wear-able masterpieces.

Complete In Thee

2011-02-02T08:54:00.000-06:00

Yes, I know, I've posted this song before ... but I like it so much, so you'll have to bear with me.

Complete in Thee, no work of mine

Could take dear Lord, the place of Thine.

Thy blood had pardon bought for me,

And I shall stand complete in Thee

Refrain:

Yea justified, oh blessed thought!

And sanctified salvation wrought!

Thy blood hath pardon bought for me,

And glorified I, too, shall be.

2. Complete in thee, each want supplied,

And no good thing to me denied,

Since Thou my portion, Lord, will be,

I ask no more, complete in Thee!

Refrain:

Yea justified, oh blessed thought!

And sanctified salvation wrought!

Thy blood hath pardon bought for me,

And glorified I, too, shall be.

3. Complete in Thee, no more shall sin,

Thy grace has conquered reign within;

Thy blood shall bid the tempter flee,

And I shall stand, complete in Thee!

Refrain:

Yea justified, oh blessed thought!

And sanctified salvation wrought!

Thy blood hath pardon bought for me,

And glorified I, too, shall be.

4. Dear Savior, when, before Thy bar,

All tribes and tongues assembled are,

Among the chosen I shall be,

At Thy right hand, Complete in Thee

Refrain:

Yea justified, oh blessed thought!

And sanctified salvation wrought!

Thy blood hath pardon bought for me,

And glorified I, too, shall be.

Another Architectual Beauty

2011-01-31T08:05:00.000-06:00

Yes, I was driving down the road when I snaped these pictures, so they're not that great, but... my poor picture taking abilities don't diminsh the beauty of the church.

My Little Care-Bear

2011-01-28T11:59:00.000-06:00

New Hair Cut

2011-01-27T17:20:00.000-06:00

Simple Woman's Daybook

2011-01-27T16:02:00.003-06:00

A Simple Woman's Daybook makes journaling actually fun!! If you would like to participate too . . . here's the link:

FOR TODAY I'm in Florida, visiting my sister(It's marvelous).
Outside her window... Palm trees and houses.
I am thinking... how nice it would be to stay.
I am thankful for... sunshine, fresh air, and excercize.
From the kitchen... went to Uno's last night~ finished off the leftovers for lunch today
I am wearing... jeans and a burgandy hoody sweatshirt.
I am creating... a picture collage.
I am going... to Jacksonville over the weekend to visit my grandmother, aunts, uncles, and cousins.
I am hoping... to see another alligator tomorrow.
I am hearing... a trash truck outside.
Around the house... I can't believe how quiet it is without children around.
One of my favorite things... my new camera.
A few plans for the rest of the week: See downtown Orlando tomorrow.
Here is picture for thought I am sharing...(add your picture here)

The Re-Union

2011-01-26T11:32:00.000-06:00

Through a series of circumstances, when my sister and her ex-husband separated, we lost contact with him. Honoring her wishes, none of us(her family) pursued the idea of finding him too closely.

Thanks to face-book, we've been able to reconnect with him. Re-introducing him to his children, has been a wonderful thing. We are to thankful that my nephew and niece will now be able to see their father again and have him as a part of their life. Although this wont bring their mother back, it will fill a void it their life. Cancer is a difficult thing. It's very hard for a child to understand losing a parent.

The Corn Stove

2011-01-24T07:59:00.001-06:00

While we were in Minnesota, we purchased this St. Croix Corn Stove as an additional heat source. We were very pleased with the way it heated our home, so of course when we moved, there was never a question, we packed it up and brought it along with us.
Unfortunately, it spent the first year here collecting dust in our garage. The second year, it found a spot in our living room. Finally this year it my third little munchkin convinced her dad, it needed a chimney so that Santa Claus would have a way to bring presents(I think, I finally convinced her, that Mommies and Daddies are the real Santa Clauses).

So here it is.

Full and brimming with brilliant, yellow kernels.

Look and him working so hard.

He's such a hard worker, and does such a wonderful job.

Corn stoves are the best!!!

Pizza Night

2011-01-21T07:56:00.000-06:00

My nephew so nicely asked if he could only have cheese on his piece. So I humored him.

"See I am Level-Headed!!!"

2011-01-19T07:53:00.000-06:00

Check it Out!!!

2011-01-17T12:38:00.004-06:00

My Pampered Chef Website is now up an running!!! I'm so excited. Make sure to go by and tell me what you think.

Simple Woman's Daybook

2011-01-17T11:28:00.001-06:00

Simple Woman's Daybook

FOR TODAY
Outside my window... puddles from melting snow.
I am thinking... it's so nice out, it feels like spring.
I am thankful for... warm days in the middle of winter.
From the kitchen... I just became a pampered chef consultant, and I've been trying out two to four

PC recipes each week. Next on my list is Primavera Potato Bites. You might

enjoy checking out my website to see what specials we have.

I am wearing... still in my jammies(sheepish grin).
I am creating... we made tie-died tee shirts yesterday. . . just finished washing the excess dye out

this morning.
I am going... to Florida at the end of this month to visit my sister.
I am reading... The Practice of Godliness~Jerry Bridges
I am hoping... to get the clothes all folded and put away this afternoon.
I am hearing... the sound of the fishtank in the background(what a lovely sound).
Around the house... nothing of note.
One of my favorite things... Lilacs.
A few plans for the rest of the week: Two Pamperd Chef Parties.
Here is picture for thought I am sharing...(add your picture here)

Walk by Faith

2011-01-14T08:40:00.000-06:00

Will I believe You when You say
Your hand will guide my every way?
Will I receive the words You say
Every moment of every day?

I will walk by faith
Even when I cannot see
Because this broken road
Prepares Your will for me

Help me to rid my endless fears
You've been so faithful for all my years
With one breath You make me new
Your grace covers all I do

I will walk by faith
Even when I cannot see
Because this broken road
Prepares Your will for me

Well I'm broken,
But I still see Your face
Well You've spoken
Pouring Your words of grace

I will walk by faith
Even when I cannot see
Because this broken road
Prepares Your will for me

Shrimp Creole

2011-01-12T08:06:00.001-06:00

The shrimp tasted a little fishy, but other than that it turned out great.

Cookie Press

2011-01-10T08:16:00.000-06:00

This is what I got from my Pampered Chef Catalogue Party.

I decided to try it out, when I made Christmas Cookies this year. It's awesome!!!

The other cookies I made were Macaroons and Peanut butter kiss cookies.

The Peanut Butter Kiss Cookies only use 5 ingredients. Can you guess what they are?

New Camera!!!

2011-01-07T08:10:00.000-06:00

Steve must have read my mind. He got me the best Christmas Present I could ever ask for. I've kind of wanted a better camera for a while. It's rather difficult to get quality paintable photos with your run of the mill, average joe digital camera. Not to complain or anything. I was perfectly content with the camera I had. . . I'm just super excited about my new one. ITS AN ARTIST DREAM CAMERA!!! Not that I have a whole lot of time for painting these days . . . but in the mean time. I'll be taking pictures of things I want to paint. THANKYOU STEVE. Your're the best!!!

Score!

2011-01-05T08:34:00.000-06:00

I've never been one of those lucky people who win the door prize, have their name pulled out of a hat, or guesses the right number in a 1-10. . . Well this time it was different. For once I did really well.

We did a White Elephant Gift Exchange at our Christmas Party this year(Thankyou Morgan for doing such a great job hosting it.) Yup that's right, I ended up with a Pampered Chef Smooth Edge Can Opener. For those of you who've used one, you know how FANTASTIC they are.

I love it!!!

Mr. Mark loves climbing stairs.

Morgan had a craft prepaired to keep the children occupied.

Who needs toys?

2011-01-03T08:24:00.000-06:00

It never ceases to amaze me how entertaining a simple box can be for a kid.
Hours of entertainment. NO COST. Makes you want to re-think Christmas Presents.

What's Cook'n?

2010-12-31T08:21:00.000-06:00

Pumpkin Pie is always a hit. These were made from last years pumpkin patch.

Rock-A-Bye Baby

2010-12-29T08:17:00.000-06:00

My girls just love this toy. We found it at a second hand store for about $5.00.

Cabage Rolls

2010-12-26T08:42:00.000-06:00

Too Much Work, or Worth the Effort?
What do you think?
Steve occasionally comes home and lends a hand in the kitchen. He enjoys cooking, simply because he enjoys food. Food of any kind. He has very few dislikes when it comes to food. When it comes to preparing food however. Anything involving wrapping, filling, twisting, braiding . . . You get the idea... to him is not worth the effort. Tamales, manacotti, taquitos, egg rolls, empanadas, chicken cor don bleu to me~ all of these may be alot of work, but WELL worth the effort.

What do you think? Simple Fare or Fancy Cooking?

Merry Christmas

2010-12-24T08:00:00.000-06:00

Celebrating his birth.

Spending time with family.

... the two things I love best about Christmas.

Simple Womans Daybook

2010-12-23T11:52:00.001-06:00

I just love a Simple Woman's Daybook. I've been thinking of posting one of her journals for quite some time . . . and I finally decided today was the day. She has created the perfect way to capture your day in a nutshell.

So without further adeau :

Outside my window: A quiet street, with leaves scattered about under the tree in my front lawn.

I am thinking: It is so nice out for this time of year.

I am thankful for: The sound of children playing in the background

From the Kitchen: The remnants of a pumkin pie . . . It was sooo delicious.

I am wearing: ... still in my jammies(sheepish smile).

I am creating: I always have a painting in the works. You can see the ones I've finished here.

I am going: Nowhere... sometimes it's just nice to stay home.

I am reading: Proverbs: keys to a success full life by Solomon ~ The wisest man in the world.

I am hoping: To send out Christmas Cards this week.

I am hearing: A very imaginative three- year- old making up stories as she plays.

Around the house: The bathroom is in the middle of a remodeling project.

One of my favorite things: The smell of Chocolate Chip Cookies baking in the oven(need to do that one of these days).

A few plans for the rest of the week: laundry, laundry, laundry ... need I say more?

Picture for thought:

My little Monkies

Bathroom Makeover

2010-12-22T08:00:00.002-06:00

I wasn't to fond of the wallpaper in our bathroom, when we moved in, but . . . it was one of those projects that didn't get done right away. I'm finally getting to it. For now all I'm doing is stripping it. We'll see about repainting at a later date.

So, do you ever See Stars?

2010-12-20T08:57:00.001-06:00

My three year old thought my mirror needed decorating.

Sledding

2010-12-17T08:49:00.003-06:00

This is a favorite winter passtime around here.

My girls love it!!!

Don't the mountains look beautiful today?

Roses

2010-12-15T08:00:00.000-06:00

Steve came home with flowers the other day. What a nice way to say "I love you."

Toilets are NOT a place to PLAY!!!

2010-12-14T14:54:00.003-06:00

Yes, Its that time again. Baby Gates, Safety locks, and all those goodies. I constantly have to check to see if the bathroom door is closed. I you ever happen to figure out WHY toilets are so atractive to those who are in the stages of learning to walk, PLEASE CLUE ME IN to the big secret!!!

I remember when Stacie was that age. We had a TOILET INCODENT with her that I will NEVER forget. At the time we lived in a house with every thing on the main floor(it had a basement that was only suitable for storage). This was very convenient, because I could pretty much see from one end of the house to the other. The one room I couldn't see into was the bathroom. In this case, the room I needed to be able to see into.

Charity was almost 4 and Stacie was about 1 1/2(toddleing about just enough to be into everything). As every toddler does at some point, she discovered the toilet. I'm sure you can feel the shutter that comes from walking in and finding a soaking wet little girl with a huge smile on her face, or a SOPPING WET stuffed animal in the process of being dunked for the upteenth time. EEEEWWWW!!!! "That's yuckies," you say...

No matter how vigilant I was in guarding the bathroom, it seems a certain three year old, was just as determined to show her little sister the JOYS of the bathroom. Little did she know that she would soon bring her mother the ULTIMATE CHALENGE. You see we had kittens in the house. Kittens do NOT LIKE WATER. Nor do they like swimming in the toilet. For some reason half pints do not understand this.

I'm sure you can imagine the horror on my face, when I walked in and saw . . .
one kitten lying still on the floor, not breathing, and another struggling to free itself from the grips of a toddler intent on giving it a bath IN THE TOILET!!!

PANIC STRUCK... a million thought flew through my head. Time seemed to stand still. WHAT SHOULD I DO? With out an instants hesitation, I picked up the phone dialing the only number that popped in to my head STEVE. It seemed like an eterity before he picked up the phone. "Steve the kitten's drowned," I all but shouted, "what should I do?" I could tell by looking at it, that It wasn't dead. Even though it wasn't breathing, I could still see the glimmer in its eye.

The thing he told me to do still brings shivers to my spine to think about it. CPR on a CAT???
Don't even think about the germs attached to such a creature, much less the place she had just been retrieved from... Keep in mind, this was the middle of winter --- a Minnesota Winter. None to warm, even in the house . I retrieved a towel, wrapped up the breathing kitty cat in it, and gingerly picked up the lifeless body, laying on the floor. Yes, I began the dreaded task. Blowing into that wiskery snout, and squeezing the round, bloated belly. GROOOSSSS!!!! I think I brushed my teeth 3 times when I was done, but at the time all I could think was --- what am I going to do ??? I have to save this kitten, . .. I can't bear to see it die in front of my little girls.

THEN SUDDENLY, from somewhere deep inside came a rrrRRRRoooOOOWWW!!!! Cough cough, sneeze. All of the sudden it was purring, rubbing against my hand, and so HAPPY to be alive.

That has to be the CRAZIEST thing I've ever done in my life. Tell me would you have would you have done mouth to mouth on a CAT OR let it die in front of your two little girls?

Which Live Cars Characters have you seen?

2010-12-10T08:36:00.000-06:00

It's Filmore!!! Well not quite :D

Close enough, Don't you think?

Denver Botanical Gardens

2010-12-08T08:25:00.003-06:00

What a beautiful day for a stroll in the Garden!! Thanks for the fun day Laura, Morgan, and Haley!!!

Hair Cuts

2010-12-06T08:14:00.000-06:00

Charity's been asking me to cut her hair for a while. When I finally got around to it, I wasn't banking on having to do TWO. Some of you know what a disaster can result from a three year old with scissors.

WELL I wasn't about to see how THAT would turn out... when Lindsey told me, she wanted her hair cut too. I promptly changed my plans and squeezed in another hair cut. Charity did a number to her hair at that age :D It's deffinately BETTER to plan a hair cut than SALVAGE a hair cut.

So what do you think? Did they turn out ok?

What's Cook'n?

2010-12-03T08:09:00.002-06:00

Banana Bread&

Chicken Fajitas. So yummy!!

Fall Party: Carmel Apples

2010-12-02T08:19:00.000-06:00

Fall Party

2010-12-01T08:51:00.001-06:00

Ashliegh put toghether a Fall Party for the kiddos. (She's so full of good ideas).

First they collected leaves.

Quite a collection. Don't you think?

She made a yummy Fall Vegitable Stew.

Read a Fall Story.

Then we made carmel apples, with apples from my tree(sorry no pictures, my camera batteries died).

We had a fabulous time. The girls are still talking about the Fall Party. "Thanks for a fun day Auntie Ashliegh."

Castles: South Broadway Christian Church & St Marks Parish Church

2010-11-29T08:11:00.001-06:00

I've been "chomping at the bit," to do some exploring ever since I bougth my Castle Book. Fortunately for me Laura so kindly agreed to accompany me on my adventure. It's so much more fun to have someone to explore with. "Thanks for the fun day Laura!!!" You can see her pictures here.

Chris the administrator at South Broadway Christian Church offered to give us a tour, which we gladly took her up on :D

The stain glass was beautiful!!!

St. Marks Parish was quite magnificient as well.

This lantern makes me think of Paul Revere's ride for some reason.

Fall Color

2010-11-26T08:03:00.000-06:00

Steve thinks we were just a tad early to catch the best leaves this year, but I still think we got some good pictures.

Kilroy is Back Again

2010-11-24T07:10:00.000-06:00

(this image was borrowed from the first link)

The Kilroy sign came into being sometime during WWII. Its quite an interesting story.
You can find it here and here.
Steve's quite a fan. He took a Lindsey Kilroy picture a quite while back, and now its Shiloh's turn.

Estes Parks: Elk Days

2010-11-22T08:34:00.001-06:00

Some of the people set up stands and dress up in costumes.

The girls liked the teepee.

and the horses.

The theater is such a unique piece of architecture.

Someday I want to stay at the Stanley Hotel, Just because. . .

Finding a park for the children is always a plus.

You can't visit Estes Parks on Elk days and not look for the local wild life.

I love this quaint little statue.

Stacie wanted to drink out of the boot too(no, not really).

My New Toy

2010-11-19T08:26:00.000-06:00

It sure is a time saver!!! Quesadillas, Grilled Cheese Sandwiches, pancakes . . . all made simple.

THIS Picture Brings New Meaning to the Phrase "Go Green!!!"

2010-11-17T17:53:00.000-06:00

(Sorry I got my toe in the picture too. )