Queen Bee

Sabbatical

2010-07-21T10:35:00.004-05:00

I know I have had a long absence from my blog....I have experienced some health issues and my attention has been devoted to getting well and focusing on the most important thing in my life which is my family.
Please forgive my little sabbatical...I'm not sure when I will be back on a regular basis. But I will continue to look in on all of my blog friends.
May God bless you with his gracious love....

Denise

2010-06-01T14:57:00.000-05:00

Sorry it has been so long since I've been here....

I've been a busy busy bee.

My mom has been busy with her garden

the strawberries are ripening as fast

as she can pick them. She has already

sold about 50 quarts and we haven't

even done our first market yet.

I've been busy trying to make a few things,

go through my antiques that have been

in storage and get all of our props

together for our booth.

I'm truly looking forward

to doing this market with

my mom....we are going to

have such a great time.

Have a wonderful week and please

forgive my possible absence this week...

but I promise pictures after the market!

Family Market

2010-05-19T18:31:00.004-05:00

A friend of mine suggested that I try

presenting some "stuff" at our local

farmer's market which also features

artist and creative wares.

After some consideration...

I thought what have I got to lose.

So I am putting myself out there...

I haven't done any kind of market or show
since I closed my shop 4 years ago.

I've been busy collecting and planting garden goodies

in the unexpected....like hen & chicks in these

sweet vintage baby shoes.

I will also have various other items

like altered planting pots, mini terrariums,

pillows and so much more.

Not only am I going to feature some of my "stuff"

but my parents are going to sell

produce from their huge...I mean HUGE

organic garden....so it's become a

family affair!

It's going to be a FABULOUS summer

and I can hardly wait!

Sweet Treat

2010-05-16T12:40:00.002-05:00

Strawberry season is approaching...

and I decided to kick it off by

making one of my husband's favorite

strawberry desserts.

Strawberry-Kiwi Tarts

This recipe is directed for making a 9" tart, however, I make small individual tarts for my family. They all want to have their own.

Crust:
1-15oz Box of Refrigerated Pie Crust. soften as directed on box

Filling:
1-1/2 Cups Vanilla Low-Fat Yogurt
1 Container (8oz) Reduced-Fat Sour Cream
1 Box (4oz Serving Size) Vanilla Instant Pudding
2 Tablespoons Orange Marmalade

Topping:
1 Cup Halved Fresh Strawberries
2 Kiwi, Peeled, thinly sliced
2 Tablespoons Orange Marmalade

Heat Oven to 450 degrees. Make pie crust as directed on box for one-crust baked shell using 9-inch tart pan with removable bottom or 9-inch glass pie plate. Bake 9 to 11 minutes or until light golden brown. Cool completely, about 30 minutes.

In medium bowl, mix all filling ingredients with wire whisk until well blended. Pour into cooled baking shell. Arrange strawberries and kiwifruit on filling.

In small microwaveable bowl, microwave marmalade on high 5 - 10 seconds or until melted. Brush over fruit. Refrigerate 1 hour or until set before serving. Store in refrigerator.

Enjoy!

2010-05-12T08:49:00.001-05:00

I am usually not a person who is envious...

that is until now....

My husband and I watched the movie "It's Complicated"

over the weekend...and well the

envy began when I saw Meryl Streep's

character in her cook's garden.

At the time I was truly mesmerized

by it's awe inspiring layout...

it's contents and well it was

unbelievably gorgeous.

Evidently my infatuation was quite

noticeable because my husband and I

visited some greenhouses this week

and he sweetly asked me if I

would like to have a garden...

I asked him whatever made you

think of that...he said..'You should

have seen the look on your face

when you saw the garden in "It's Complicated"...

He already had given thought to

where it could go and how

we could make it work...

sigh...he is wonderful.

Needless to say I will

settle for an extensive herb garden...

but next year who knows.

2010-05-09T12:54:00.001-05:00

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!

May your day be filled

with joy and your heart

filled with love.

Happy May Day!

2010-05-01T08:14:00.001-05:00

I had such fun yesterday!

After I put my son on the bus for

school I decided to go visit

the coffee chicks (my friends).

Standing in my kitchen I was admiring all

of the lovely flowers in my yard.

As the day's agenda rolled around in my head

I realized that it was going to be May Day.

So I decided to make some small

May Day gifts for my friends

using things that I had...

paper, stickers, flowers from my garden.

I always have a great time with

my friends but it was heartwarming

to see the joy on their faces

with such a small token of friendship.

Happy May Day to all of you

and have a wonderful weekend!

Instant Sunshine

2010-04-27T07:27:00.002-05:00

Flowers....Flowers...Flowers

I have flowers on the brain.

Flowers are like an instant

shot of sunshine for the soul.

Sweet Peas and Tulips are so lovely...

although I have many personal favorites.

I have been perusing several greenhouses

lately looking for new flower plants.

Going to them it's like being on overload...

My mind says...I want this and this and this..

Well you get the picture.

I have been stock piling plants...

it is still a little early to plant where I live.

But come Mother's Day...

look out...I'll be on a

planting frenzy.

The sun is shining today...

and I'm feeling FAB!

Photosource: Country Living Magazine

Faithful Companion

2010-04-24T07:39:00.004-05:00

There is nothing like the comfort

of a sweet and faithful companion...

one of mine happens to be

my dog CeCe.

She is as good as it gets....

I have been under the weather

and she has been following me

around and just"has" to

be with me. She's even

wanted to be with me when I

lay down in bed....snoozing on

the pillow beside me.

For all of you animal lover's

you know what I am talking

about. They just have a way of

knowing that you need to be comforted.

I'm thankful for CeCe....

she brings me immense comfort and joy!

Bling

2010-04-19T06:53:00.003-05:00

Every girl likes a little bling....right.

I am no exception.

However....I would have to say

that my preference would be vintage.

Yes that's right....

I LOVE LOVE LOVE

vintage jewelry.

I think it all started when I

would visit my Grandmother
as a little girl...

She would let me play with

all of her jewelry...

and she had ALOT.

So girls how do you bling?

Photo Source: Country Living Magazine

Coffee & A Little Chit Chat

2010-04-12T15:30:00.006-05:00

I'm not sure when it started....

but I have lost touch with

friends that I truly care about...

I have been trying to reestablish

the relationships that I have missed.

I want to be a better friend.

I want to enjoy life....laugh...

embrace fun...and be around

people who want the same thing.

I spent this morning with a group
of friends that meet for coffee.
I used to do this frequently....sadly I think

it's been over a year since I did this...

It was one of the best moments I've
had in quite some time.
A little coffee, great friends and
feeling free to be me...
it was awesome!

Outside Living

2010-04-05T19:13:00.002-05:00

My husband and I have been

discussing some ideas for creating

some outdoor "rooms" for a section

of our little cottage home's yard.

Different places to gather

with family and friends...

To be surrounded by the people

we love in cozy and

welcoming spots....

Life just doesn't get any

better than that!

Photos: Country Living

Treasures Galore!

2010-03-31T13:05:00.000-05:00

Just a few pictures from my friend Tricia's Open House at

her lovely shop Backyard Candle Company.

The shop was filled to the brim with all kinds of

treasures....browse my photos and

see for yourself.

Bloom and Grow

2010-03-25T08:51:00.004-05:00

Ahhhh...The sweet smell of SPRING...

There is something so magical about spring.

As everything that lie dormant over the winter

stirs from it's slumber and

awakens with a fresh and

renewed spirit...

to embrace and grow leaving

all of the past behind.

I too feel awakened...

I am ready to bloom and grow..

to sow and to share...

to love.

I am also ready to get outside too.

To work on creating my gardens....

But it struck me that I don't

have to wait...how about

bringing a little spring inside.

I am taking a small day trip with a friend

tomorrow and maybe I can find some

treasures to plant a few little

green goodies in...

I am going to be visiting my friend Tricia

of Backyard Candle Co. tomorrow.

She is having her spring open house this weekend...

if you live close please go and see her...if not

visit her blog and Etsy shop...she's FAB!

LOVE

2010-03-21T21:44:00.000-05:00

A few more pictures from Matthew's Wedding....

Love....Love...Love

The Happy Couple

2010-03-15T08:51:00.001-05:00

It was a beautiful simple wedding...

good music, good food

and family.

Congratulations Matthew & Julie

May You Know Nothing But Happiness

2010-03-11T17:43:00.000-06:00

My son Matthew is getting married tomorrow...

I just saw him trying on his tux at the bridal shop.

My eyes filled with tears of joy for

this wonderful man who

it seems like yesterday was

just a little boy...my little boy.

A new chapter in his life will begin

and so Matthew...

May God be with you and bless you.

May you see your children's children.

May you be poor in misfortune, rich in blessings,

May you know nothing but happiness.

From this day forward.

Irish Wedding Blessing

I love you Matthew with my whole heart.

Matthew as a boy pictured with my youngest son Blake.

I Have Returned!

2010-03-04T20:17:00.001-06:00

I bet you thought I fell off

the face of the earth

didn't you...

well pretty close...

The past few weeks have been

filled with ups and downs...

too much so that I couldn't bring myself

to write a thing.

My life has been filled with a sick child, a sick me,

a death in the family, a little bout of the blues ...

which I have struggled with my entire life...

and one of my boys is getting married in 2 weeks

which we just found out about a week ago...

which is a happy event....

but oh my lots to do!

So I picked myself up...and said

okay that's enough...

get on with it...

and so I begin again.

In the times that I am surrounded
by challenges, sorrow and even joy...
I hope to be like a butterfly that emerges from
it's cocoon...
forever changed and grateful
for the life that lies ahead.

SICK

2010-02-08T14:49:00.000-06:00

Sorry I haven't posted anything new....

Blake has been sick for several days

and now so am I.

Will post more when

I feel better.

Thanks for stopping by....

I hope to be able to stop by and

visit all my blog friends soon.

Let's Eat CAKE!

2010-02-02T20:28:00.005-06:00

I love cake...yes I do!

I love to eat cake, make cake...

and share cake!

There is a FABULOUS website

called Bakerella....
which I found through my friend
Federica of Sweet As Candy

It is filled with FUN baking ideas.

And for Valentine's Day ...

they have featured this scrumptious looking

Valentine's Day Gift Box.

And guess what...

it's all made out of cake!

Yes...the whole thing is cake!

Visit Bakerella's website at

http://www.bakerella.com/

for the recipe and instructions

and make one of these

delectable delights...

Now...Let's Eat Cake!

Photosource: Bakerella

Angel on Earth

2010-01-29T09:39:00.003-06:00

My Blake is such a beautiful child....

he always smiles...

he always laughs...

and he always loves.

One thing he usually does not do

is complain....

Blake has cerebral palsy...

and recently has begun to complain...

about his body hurting..

SIGH!

We have been to our regular orthopedic doctor...

we are trying some new things...

but with little results.

But a week ago....

God sent me an angel.

This angel was someone that attended a workshop

that the company I work for was presenting

for a private company...

I usually do not attend this particular workshop.

But on this occasion,

I was asked to be there....so I went.

I met "J" and it was almost like

I had known her forever....

and in the course of talking found out we

both have children with cerebral palsy.

After further discussion...

she shared with me a treatment

that her son was receiving from a Doctor

that is 2 hours from where we live.

To bring this story to conclusion...

she gave me the name of the Doctor

and Blake has an appointment there today!

God is everywhere...

in our thoughts,

in our hearts,

in those around us...

and he is always with us.

2010-01-23T08:23:00.003-06:00

Oh....gray gray winter go away!

It's the middle of winter and I have

hit the blah wall!!!!

It happens every year...not always

at the same date/month...

but I know at some point it

will wander in.

But I say...NOT THIS YEAR!

So..I am thinking of little ways

that I can add sunshine to my days!

Small fun trips, lunch with friends,

little craft projects, time with my grandson,

visiting inspiring and enLIGHTening blogs!

So goodbye winter blahs...cause here comes the SUN!

Photosource: Flickr

2010-01-14T18:31:00.001-06:00

A few days ago I ordered some decorative

stickers from HeatherBullard.com

and today they ARRIVED!

I love giving little gifts whether it be

something that I've made by hand,

some baked goodies or

a group of little treasures I've found.

I spotted these adorable stickers and

thought they would be perfect to decorate

packages or bags along with some vintage lace,

jewelry, buttons and many other items I have.

I was inspired by my friend Tracey at

French Larkspur (click on her button on the right)

who at Christmas time made some adorable treasures

by recycling paper, plastic containers and other items.

She adorned them with

embellishments and turned them into

absolutely fabulous gift ideas and packages.

I have been saving all kinds of little boxes,

plastic containers and lots of other things to create some

hopefully memorable treasures

for those I love.

Here's to a little creative recycling...

Thanks Tracey for the inspiration!

Magazines and Tea Oh My!

2010-01-08T16:38:00.001-06:00

Living in the Midwest you know there

will be winters filled with snow

and very very cold temperatures.

Well it definately has been like that.

School has been cancelled a few days

and thankfully I have a job where

I can work from home.

I have been out to go to the market

and that is pretty much it!

So the loungewear continues...

I've been drinking lots of tea and

reading through lots and lots of old magazines.

I am a magazine addict.

I have so many....

However, the madness must stop!

So I am going through my very large

collection and deciding what to keep

whether it be the whole magazine

or just pages.

So...here's to a drastically reduced

collection of inspiration!

Stay warm and happy!

Silence

2010-01-03T16:08:00.004-06:00

The New Year is here....no bells...no fireworks...no whistles.

Just me...being lazy
loungwear+chaise lounge+snuggly dogs=heaven

I have spent most of my NEW YEAR not being reflective...

mostly mindless...and you know what I don't mind it.

I don't mind a little silence in my mind for a change...

By nature I am not relaxed....I worry...I am neurotic.

Yes...yes I am...

But for the past few days I have just

let it all go....

something I plan to do a little more of....

Gifts of Love

2009-12-28T14:13:00.008-06:00

I received two very special gifts for Christmas.

Both of which filled my eyes with tears...

one was a picture frame necklace with

a picture of my youngest son...Blake...

when he was very young...

It is one of my favorite pictures of him...sigh

The other was a poem my parent's found and

put it in a frame with pictures

of Blake with our family...

My son Blake is a special needs child

who has cerebral palsy.

Blake was born 3 months early...

he weighed 1lb 3oz...

he is the heart and soul of our family,

our greatest inspiration and

a true gift.

This is the poem...

Heaven's Very Special Child

A meeting was held quite far away from Earth.

It was time again for another birth.

Said the Angels to the Lord above...
"This child will need much love.

His progress may be very slow.

Accomplishments he may not show.

And he'll require extra care from

the folks he meets down there.

He may not run or laugh or play,

His thoughts may seem quite far away.

So many times he will be labeled

different,helpless and disabled.

So let's be careful where he's sent,

we will want his life to be content.

Please Lord, find the parents who

will do a special job for you.

They will not realize right away the

leading role they are asked to play.

But with this child sent from above

comes stronger faith and richer love,

And soon they'll know the privilege given

in caring for their gift from heaven.

Their precious charge, so meek and mild

is heaven's very special child.

Oh...couldn't even type that without crying...

I am so grateful for all of the

extraordinary people in my life...

my family, my friends and my blog friends.

I am the luckiest girl alive!

My Wish For You

2009-12-23T15:46:00.000-06:00

As Christmas approaches...

I remember all those I love

that have gone on to heaven...

I reminisce about Christmas' past with

my children when they were young

and I even think about my own childhood

and all of the lovely memories I have.

I wait in joyful anticipation as I will

be surrounded by my family

during this wondrous time of year.

And I will enjoy the blessings that

I have been given.

I also think about the birth of our savior...

who was sent to save us all.

My wish for you is simple and sincere...

may God surround you with his love

and may his peace be with you

this Christmas and all through the year.

From my heart to yours...

Merry Christmas!

Makin' A List

2009-12-20T18:44:00.005-06:00

Oh...did I ever tell you how much I love

to cook and bake....well I do...very very much so.

I love food...and it loves me back just a

little too much...my middle section is proof.

I would rather have a brand new cookbook,

kitchen gadget, pot, pan or bake ware over

anything else...even jewelry! Yes...I know...

it may be hard to believe but it is true!

One of my favorite sites for online shopping is

Sur la table

It is a cook/baker's dream!

Here are a few things that caught my eye today...

Crown Porcelain Platter

Chef Hat Ramekin for Souffles.

Eiffel Tower Cookie Cutter

Spanish Paella Pan

And my biggest pick... this wood fire oven.

Well..I'm definately ordering the cookie cutter and

the chef hat ramekins for now...

the rest...I'll put them on a list for another time.

Bon Appetit and Happy Holidays

Christmas Is Coming

2009-12-14T19:45:00.007-06:00

Finally....I finally have some Christmas decorations up...

I'm not done by any means but...

at least it looks like Christmas is coming

to the "Z" House!

I still have some craft projects to do to fill in

the tree with as well as some other areas
that need a little something...

And I ran out of lights...some of them didn't work...
Sound familiar?

It's amazing what some greenery, lights and shiny stuff...

can do to make your spirits bright...

Merry Thoughts and Glad Tidings to You!

Childhood Christmas Memories

2009-12-08T14:55:00.011-06:00

I have many vivid Christmas memories from

my childhood...from my Dad dressing up as Santa

to my siblings and I in matching outfits.

But one of the things I always treasured was a small
white tree adorned with vintage ornaments and
bright colored lights that my mother and I
decorated together for my bedroom every year.

Sadly, the ornaments and tree disappeared over the years.

I stopped by my mother's the other day...

she had a surprise for me...

it was a box of ornaments like the ones from my childhood.

A little teary eyed...I told my mother how much I loved

that little tree and the ornaments when I was a little girl...

and how much I loved her for always making me feel special.

She hugged me and said she remembered...

and I felt like that little girl all over again...

Me at Christmas Time when I was 4 years old.

Christmas--that magic blanket that wraps itself about us,

that something so intangible that it is like a fragrance.

It may weave a spell of nostalgia. Christmas may
be a day of feasting, or of prayer, but always it will be
a day of remembrance--a day in which we think of
everything we have ever loved. --Augusta E. Rundel

Do you see what I see?

2009-12-01T19:20:00.001-06:00

I know that it's December....but someone should tell

the plants in my window box on the gate to my house!

I have long since cleared out the plants in the planters

outside which shriveled and turned brown...

but these beauties cling to life...

Every time I pass through the gate they

bring a smile to my face...

They refuse to give up...

they are beautiful in spite of what is

happening around them...

and they stand tall in the face of adversity....

Inspiration is everywhere...
sometimes right before our eyes!

Happy December!

Thanksgiving

2009-11-23T20:25:00.009-06:00

In this season of Thanksgiving, we are reminded of our blessings and what we are grateful for in our lives. But I believe that there is more to it than that...much more. It is more than just being thankful for what we have been given…it is being thankful for the blessings bestowed on others. And more importantly the grace to be a blessing for a soul in need, whatever or however that may be.

I truly believe that the grace that God bestows on us is not just for us to hold on to…it is to be shared…for it is not what we have that matters... it is what we give.

So let your grateful heart thank someone, show mercy, forgive, be kind, unconditional, generous…a reflection of God’s grace.

This…this is Thanksgiving.

And in that spirit…I want to thank all of you for sharing with me your souls and your hearts…I am truly grateful.

Happy Thanksgiving to you and all those you love…

Photosource: MarthaStewart.com

Merci!

2009-11-20T16:19:00.003-06:00

There was a knock on my door this afternoon...a box arrived

with my lovely gifts from winning
the giveaway at FRENCH LARKSPUR.

I opened it up and everything was wrapped

with beautiful paper

and had the most precious seals.

I opened them up and I received...

2 Metal Letters which I selected - M and D which
are the initials of my husband and I...

2 Oven Mits with French Text on them...

And my favorite of all of these lovely things...

A Washed Flax Tablecloth with French Text on Both Ends....sigh...

I am one lucky lucky girl!

I feel so very fortunate to have received such beautiful gifts...

Tracey... you have such a generous spirit
and I will think of you every time I look

at these inspiring beauties that
make me want to redo my kitchen....

FRENCH LARKSPUR....MERCI!

Firing Up The Oven

2009-11-19T17:20:00.003-06:00

As the climate changes I am getting into my winter nesting mode...which includes lots of baking.

I LOVE to bake...and today I chose to make something that my husband dearly loves....Babka.

My husband is Polish and since his mother has passed away this bread has been made by his sisters. The recipe has been passed down from generation to generation. They were kind enough to share the recipe with me....and I make it on days when I think my husband needs a little comfort.

To my husband - Kocham cie! (I love you!)

I am a Winner!

2009-11-16T09:31:00.000-06:00

I had a very sweet and shocking surprise this morning....I won the giveaway that FRENCH LARKSPUR had showcasing some of her VERY fabulous wares.

I am still pinching myself...is it real....yes....

FRENCH LARKSPUR is a MUST SEE on my daily blog routine...her blog is inspirational....her shop is divine...and Tracey well she is a wonderful blog friend...a person with grace, kindness and an enormous heart!

Please stop by and see her...you will be forever changed and inspired...

Sentimental Friday

2009-11-13T17:08:00.000-06:00

I'm feeling very sentimental today...not in a sad way...but I am tearing up at just about anything and everything. Not sure what this is all about...hormones perhaps...but I am just taking it all in and taking stock of all of my blessings...which far outweigh the incidental and inconsequential that happens as it does in life.

I am thankful for my faith
my ever loving and comforting family...
and inspiring friends...especially the blogging kind....

This is what can reach my heart and fill it with love...warm my soul when it needs comfort and give me hope...which leaves me with breathless anticipation of what each new day will bring.

I wish for each of you a day filled with the kind of things that wrap their arms around you and leave you feeling safe, loved and filled with joy.

Welcome To The World!

2009-11-11T18:51:00.001-06:00

Today is a very special day....I am a great-aunt for the first time, my sister is a first time grandmother and the most precious thing of all is that my niece is a first time mother.

This is little Tatum...born today a very special day in so many ways..especially for her father who is in the Army and has served in Iraq...born today on Veterans Day.

There's nothing like a baby to make us stop and reaffirm how wonderous life is....Welcome to the World Tatum!

The Queen is at The Backyard

2009-11-06T09:53:00.006-06:00

I would like to start out by saying that I am so grateful for blogging. In a short period of time I have found a source of inspiration, uplifting moments and have seen how beautiful that blog friends can be.

My friend Julie...introduced me to blogging...Thanks Kitten! But it was meeting Tricia of Backyard Candle Company through her blog and ultimately going to her shop that had a HUGE impact on me. Not only did I get to make a new friend, but she made me want to create again. She is a lovely person inside and out! Well..to make a long story short...Tricia invited me to put some of my things in her shop....so I have...

This is Tricia at her Open House last night!

If you have never been to Backyard Candle Company...you are totally missing out on a great experience. The shop is filled with inspiration from top to bottom and her candles...you can't find any better! Please visit her at http://www.backyardcandle.blogspot.com/

Here is a peak at a few things...

Thank you to ALL of you for your inspiration! Here's wishing you a weekend filled with magical moments and blessings abundant! Blog friends are the BEST FRIENDS! (Tricia said that to me last night as I left and I think she is absolutely right!)

SMACK!

2009-11-03T17:41:00.001-06:00

Ever have something happen that makes you take a real hard look at your life? Well - I'm there! Do I have things in order if something happens to me? What is it that I am supposed to be doing? Am I doing all of the things that are important to me or am I merely thinking about them....and are those things REALLY the most important things. I do think that it is normal to feel this way in some small degree....but I have hit the proverbial wall! SMACK!

I'm having an internal "WAR" and I think it's incredibly difficult to share my true self with my family which makes it difficult to talk about it to ANYONE. I do hide alot from my family...how I am feeling...things that have me a little on the edge and in tears....stuff like that....I don't want to burden them in any way. I am the one that takes care of everyone's boo boos...literally and figuratively....I am the glue.

I need to RELAX and sometimes it helps to

Take a scenic drive....

Take a long bubble bath....

Or a biggie...take a vacation somewhere like this...

But the one thing that gives me true relief of any kind...especially in matters of the heart is to pray....

It's the one and only thing I have that saves me from myself...the only thing that opens my heart and the one thing that can lead me home.....

Les grandes pensees viennent du coeur.

2009-10-27T17:02:00.006-05:00

Translation - The greatest thoughts come from the heart.

In everything I do I try and listen to my heart...every decision I make in doing so proves to be the right one...my heart is a reflection of my faith....my values...my beliefs.

When I second guess myself....it usually means trouble in some way...regret...grief...anxiety...
I do struggle with this sometimes ....why is it so hard to just listen to that little voice....instead of the loud obnoxious one that drowns it out...

Living from the heart...that's where it's all at....letting love live in our thoughts, in our minds, in our actions and our words.

Here's to my heart...may it give me wings to fly.

I'm Back!

2009-10-25T20:22:00.007-05:00

I'm back.......I'm much better and ready to get back to blogging. I've really missed it and I've missed my regular dose of my favorite blogs!

These are just a couple of things I have in the works...I have about 14 different things in bits and pieces...when it comes to making things I get easily distracted. I start something then get another idea and start working on that...and then I get another idea and start working on that...well you get the picture. Sometimes I have to stop what I am working on because I keep second guessing myself....walk away and come back to it. My "stuff" has been packed away and scattered...but I have been digging through the garage and gathering goodies...vintage jewelry, fabrics, trims, etc.

The things I have posted here are not done...but thought I would share them anyway...I will post items as I finish them.....I haven't made anything for sooooooo long...in about a year and a half...that's way too long. Gettin' my groove back...

To all of the beautiful blogs out there...you inspire me....you make me want to create again....thank you from the bottom of my heart....you make me want to be me!

Blog Neglect

2009-10-19T07:29:00.003-05:00

I have been neglecting my blog....I haven't felt well the last 2 weeks. I have been to the ER twice...diagnosis..infection in my lungs. So glad it wasn't H1N1. That would be scary!

Still on the mend..better but still having trouble with being short of breath....thank goodness for breathing treatments!

Thank you to those who left comments on my blog...I hope to visit your blogs soon and check up on all the wonderful things that are happening in your lives....

Many blessings to you all!

Soup's On!

2009-10-11T18:54:00.010-05:00

It's cold outside....and all I can think about is making soup!

There is nothing like a good pot of soup and

some crusty bread on a chilly day to warm you up!

Here are just a few of my favorite soups...

Chicken Tortilla

French Onion Soup

Roasted Tomato Soup

Farmhouse Chowder

Black Bean Soup

And the old standby....Chicken Noodle!

YUM!

PhotoSource: Martha Stewart.com

Uncensored Thoughts

2009-10-09T21:08:00.009-05:00

Have you ever been so moved by something that your emotions swirl around inside you....it swells and resonates through every fiber of your being? I get like that....there are some things that bring out this part of me. Witnessing someones selfless kindness. Music... anything from Opera to Jazz to Blues. A child's joy in the innocence of life. Awe inspiring creativity. A movie that speaks beyond words to the very heart of you...

I notice things...things that some people barely or never notice...little things...the way two people look at each other...what is said and not said....the sound of the wind while I stand with my eyes closed...laughter that is uncensored and full of life....sometimes what seems to be everything and anything.

I also see what is painful...woeful...I do notice...

What do you do with all of that....sometimes I don't know....but most of the time I am grateful for the life I have been given and I hope I use it to make a difference in some way, however small...this is my hope...

Let's Bowl

2009-10-04T19:57:00.004-05:00

My youngest son had a practice for Special Olympics Bowling. Our local bowling alley was destroyed by fire so the practice was held in a VERY small town close to where we live. The kind gentleman who owns the bowling alley opened up just for our group of children. The unfortunate thing was that they did not have a ramp for Blake to bowl with. He is in a wheelchair and is not strong enough to handle a bowling ball. Most bowling alleys have these but this bowling alley is small and they are used to adults bowling.

In the end it didn't really matter to us or Blake...he had a great time. He was so thrilled to be with his friends he never even gave any thought to what he wasn't getting to do. He was only concerned with what he could do.....cheer on all of his friends. I love this about him....

There isn't a day that goes by that I don't learn something from him. I have always said that I'm getting alot more from him than he's getting from me. He's selfless, positive, loving and very compassionate. His love knows no boundaries....it's endless and ever flowing.

Living and loving without boundaries...may we all have such peace.

Photo Source: flickr

Singing & Baking

2009-10-02T08:27:00.011-05:00

I am busy baking away this morning...orange pound cake...soaked with an orange syrup and topped with orange glaze...mmmm....then delivering some to my good friend Julie and my parents.

I usually listen to music while I am in the kitchen...and I often sing along...be glad you are not here because I am sure my singing is horrendous. My poor little dogs even look at me strangely. But it makes me happy....today I am doing things I love to do and I'm living out loud!

Too Much Stuff

2009-10-01T18:41:00.006-05:00

Tomorrow I am getting ready to have a garage sale...fun huh! Well it must be done....I have sooooooo much stuff. Moving from our big 5 bedroom 3 story home to our small one story made having alot of STUFF a problem. We have 3 storage buildings and our garage is packed!!!

Going through all of my treasures...having to make a decision on what to keep and what to sell is torture at times. I can't keep everything. We have limited space in our little home.

I have alot alot alot of antiques........none of which are appropriate for a garage sale...some of these lovelies I am keeping...now I need to find a way to sell the ones I am ready to part with....

So here's hoping for no rain...lots of buyers and not having to put any of it back in the garage!

PhotoSource: Sassy Signs

Oh Autumn!

2009-09-30T12:50:00.032-05:00

I love Autumn because...

I Get to Enjoy The Beauty of The Outdoors

I Use The Oven More And Bake Lots of Bread

I Make Yummy Comfort Food

And Wear Comfy Clothes
And Surround Myself With The Colors of Fall

Delicious autumn!

My very soul is wedded to it,

and if I were a bird I would

fly about the earth seeking

the successive autumns.

George Eliot

Photo Sources: Country Living Magazine

Pumpkin Farm

2009-09-27T18:37:00.007-05:00

I got to spent the afternoon today taking my grandson and his mama to our local pumpkin farm. It was a windy but beautiful day. This was my grandson's first trip to get a pumpkin.

He is so adorable...not that I'm prejudice or anything. He giggled alot and tried to pick up all the pumpkins that weighed more than he did. The farm has such a beautiful facility. They have so many different kinds of pumpkins and gourds. They have wagon rides. A huge corn maze and lots of activities for children. We are going to make another trip with all of my family...but today was all about Teegan. We had a wonderful time there and then went to an apple orchard to get some apples for making caramel apples. Yum!!!!!!!!!!!

I love spending time with my grandson....he is getting so big and time passes so quickly it seems. I want to take advantage of every moment I get to spend with him...I love being a grandmother...I am truly blessed.

2009-09-22T14:26:00.016-05:00

I have had the pleasure of making some new friends through blogging and one of them is Tricia from Backyard Candle Company. She is so sweet. I love her blog..and her shop...please visit her at http://www.backyardcandle.blogspot.com/ ...you will be glad that you did.

So, here's what I I am supposed to do.......

1.) Say thanks and give a link to the presenter of the award.
2.) Share "10 Honest Things" about myself.
3.) Present this award to 7 others whose blogs I find brilliant in content and/or design, or those who have encouraged me.
4.) Tell those 7 people they've been awarded HONEST SCRAP and inform them of these guidelines in receiving

So here we go...

First - The day I met Tricia she gave me the inspiration I needed to start working on my wares again. Thanks Tricia! And thank you for the Honest Scrap Award! Visit her don't forget!!!http://www.backyardcandle.blogspot.com/

Second -10 Honest Things About Myself
1) I wanted to be a Doctor...went to the University of Northern Iowa to major in biology and the plan was to then transfer to University of Iowa to go to med school ....I never graduated from UNI and I am not a doctor...but this is the life I was meant to have and I am grateful.

2) I LOVE to travel...near, far, cold, warm, beach, mountains...doesn't matter! Have passport will travel!

3) Cooking is a passion of mine....especially baking!

4) The Wizard of Oz is my favorite movie of all time...I know...I know....but ever since I was a little girl this has been my favorite...I have even owned a Cairn Terrier(like TOTO) his name was Ozzie...he's in heaven now. You know Dorthy had the power all along to go home...I think we are like that we have the power to get us where we want to go...sometimes we just don't use it!

5) I used to be a Vegan....for health reasons...I didn't eat any meat any animal products...no dairy...no eggs...nothing...and rarely if ever had sugar....I had some health issues and my doctor at the Mayo Clinic strongly disapproved of my diet....soooo.....not so much anymore....but would do so again in a heartbeat if I could make it work.

6) I am a total Magazine addict...............you don't even want to know how many I have. I keep past issues....(okay I know I can't be the only one...anybody else????) I can't seem to part with them....I just like to snuggle up with them and get lost!

7) I struggle with my weight....ugh! I used to be thin (almost too thin I realize know) but am now the same weight as when I was hugely pregnant with one of my boys that was a 10lb baby and gained alot alot of extra weight. I try to remember though...and I heard this somewhere...that I am as my creator made me and if he is satisfied then so am I.

8) Project Runway....I love this show......I group of designers who have challenges in which they use their talents to compete against each other to win a grand prize.....I love it! I love to see the challenges they get...how they take a concept and make it into their vision...

9) I wear my heart on my sleeve.....

10) My hero and my greatest inspiration...my 13 year old son. My youngest son had to be delivered early (27 weeks) to save my life.....I had severe preeclampsia and my body was beginning to shut down....he weighed 1 lb 3 oz and was 12 inches long....He has cerebral palsy. He has endured so much and even through it all he is the happiest person I know! I have always said that he is my strength not my weakness. He is beautiful...inside and out!

Me and My Hero!

Now the seven people I am giving this to are.....
Tracey - http://www.frenchlarkspur.blogspot.com/
Cindy - http://www.romantichome.blogspot.com/
Debbie - http://www.curioussofa.blogspot.com/
Jeanneoli- http://www.bushelandapeck.typepad.com/
Rebecca - http://www.rebeccaforvintageliving.blogspot.com/
Donna - http://www.donna-jenkins.blogspot.com/

I am VERY new to blogging...but the blogs listed above are ones that are either creatively inspiring, were very welcoming to me into my blog world journey and/or have meaningful dialogue that touches my heart. Please visit them....I hope you enjoy them as much as I do!

Broken Hearted

2009-09-22T11:07:00.002-05:00

I haven't been on for several days....One of my older sons is having some challenges in his life that he has been dealing with for quite some time....

I just couldn't bring myself to write anything...my heart is a little broken.....I won't go into the details....but it is has been very difficult for our entire family.

Please pray for him...

Drooling......

2009-09-16T19:32:00.017-05:00

My bedroom is my sanctuary....I LOVE to lounge in a comfy pair of pajamas in a big cozy bed with lots of pillows! I just bought a new bedding set recently...I still like it...very much in fact....but I've been looking at some awesome quilts by Pine Cone Hill. If you get a chance stop by their website http://www.pineconehill.com/ you will love it! I adore their bedding and pajamas...I carried this line when I had my shop. A little pricey but worth every single penny! Here are a few that I'm drooling over...

Photo Source: Pine Cone Hill

A Little Piece of Heaven

2009-09-14T19:39:00.013-05:00

There is a little piece of heaven on earth...and it's called Sisters Garden and Bloom. This lovely place is located in Kalona, Iowa. It is one place that I can go and be completely surrounded by the things that I love...I made my way there over the weekend.

Chippy painted furniture...vintage architecture pieces...vintage items of all kinds...pictures, linens, jewelry, one of a kind items...you name it it's probably there! I can lose myself there...and could stay there literally for hours upon hours....and sometimes I do.....

The owner, Barb, has the most magical and awe inspiring displays....she is a very sweet person and her lovely spirit shows in every square inch of the two homes that are filled to the brim with unbelievable finds.

I never walk away from there empty handed....it's a beautiful place...if you ever get the chance please go and see for yourself....and if you can't...visit her blog listed under my beautiful things....

Sisters Garden and Bloom are magical...absolutely magical!

Cowboys have Come To Town

2009-09-11T07:23:00.005-05:00

The town I live in has an annual Rodeo...this is it's 62nd year. It's a HUGE event and takes place over several days...not only are there rodeo performances but there are a number of other traditional activities that take place...pancake breakfast, parade, concerts....just to name a few. I found this picture taken of my dad, my brother and me several (I mean several) years ago during Rodeo Week. I was probably about 6-7 years old. We were all dressed up for Rodeo Parade Day...my entire family came to our house in those days. We lived on the parade route...we had breakfast together...watched the parade...had lunch and then the Rodeo performance later that day. Lovely memories of those times fill my heart and make me smile. Today I am going to buy my 1yr old Grandson his first Rodeo attire....the tradition carries on!

Please Be Kind

2009-09-10T18:42:00.009-05:00

I have never understood people who need to make slight of others. It completely escapes me why someone would choose to be cruel or slight someone for the benefit of themselves rather than having an open and welcoming heart. It isn't in my nature to behave in a way that makes someone feel badly about who they are. We are all creatures of a gracious and loving God who I believe wants us to live in love....if we are too busy judging people we have no time to love them. Please be kind....it will not only lift the hearts of others but your own as well.

Kind words can be short and easy to speak,
but their echoes are truly endless.
Mother Teresa

Lake Michigan

2009-09-07T19:47:00.009-05:00

I hope that you all had a memorable Labor Day Weekend. My family and I ended up driving along Lake Michigan in Wisconsin. It was so out of our daily life...how wonderful it felt to wander!

My favorite part of our trip was on the day after we left my family in Chicago. We left late Saturday so we drove as far as Racine...all of us were quite sleepy so we stopped there for the night. The next morning we drove toward Lake Michigan....through the town, which has some adorable shops and came to the Lake....

It took my breath away... we immediately pulled over got out and walked on the beach. There is something magical about the Lake...the sand...the birds...the wind...the sound of the waves...it's simple beauty. It filled me with the most unbelievable joy. I am in awe of how endless it felt...all life should be like that...endless, peaceful and full of possibilities....

I could not help myself. I had to stand and let the waves gently wash over my feet...I reveled in every moment and I stood there for the longest time...

We made our way up the Lake...with a stop in Milwaukee. We had lunch in the Historic Third Ward at an outdoor cafe and then went to Anthropologie. We headed north to Cedarburg, a quaint historic village, then made our way to Sheboygan. We walked along the RiverWalk and had dinner outside at a restaurant in the Harbor looking out at Lake Michigan as the sun began to set.

Adventures are wonderful...there are so many things to discover. Not just in the places you go and the things you do...but the things you find out about yourself. I never want to stop searching for all of the treasures that life holds....

May your souls be filled with peace and your mind forever in search of adventure!

Adventure Weekend

2009-09-04T15:38:00.010-05:00

My youngest son is a special needs child...he has had some anxiety about going places and was getting to the point that he didn't really want to leave our house. My husband and I started what we called "Adventure Days" in order to help him overcome some of that anxiety. We started out with day trips and have worked him up to weekends. We take him out to experience new sites, new food and have some family fun. We do have to avoid loud and overly crowded situations but he is a little more tolerant...although it just depends on the situation.... At first he wasn't too excited about all of this but much to our delight...this worked...and now when you ask him if he wants to go on an adventure he is all for it...and as a result we have had some wonderfully memorable times. So..we are packing our bags...and off we go...first stop Chicago. My husband is from Chicago and we are going to visit his sisters....then....who knows...maybe we'll stay in Chicago or head to Wisconsin perhaps Lake Geneva. One of the things I love about my husband is his since of adventure...we usually never have a particular plan...and it doesn't matter where we go...we all go there together and that's all I need.

Photo Source: Apartment Therapy

Oh La La at French Larkspur

2009-09-03T17:08:00.008-05:00

The French Larkspur has a lovely blog and a website that will make you say "Oh La La" I guarantee it. It will definitely become a frequent stop on my online perusing. It's owner has a generous spirit and is having a give away. Please stop by and wish her well on her new venture, visit her website and look at all the dreamy wares...wishing you a heart full of happiness and dreams abundant!

The Joys of Autumn

2009-09-02T12:02:00.019-05:00

I'm sooooooo happy....I love the approach of autumn....it's my favorite time of year for many reasons. One of them is that with the cooler climate I get to wear long sleeve comfy shirts and warm and cozy sweaters.......I love both and I have many...I have some favorites that have been well worn and I have some new ones that I have my eye on...I'm sure they will make their way into my closet...

I love the ruffles on this J. Jill shirt....

This rosette sweater from Ann Taylor Loft (one of my favorite stores of all time!) is to die for....

I love clothes that are feminine but not over the top...I like simplicity...mostly basic muted colors....I do wear alot of black...it's slimming effect has huge appeal!

Here's to fall and feeding my sweater addiction!

Take Me Away

2009-08-27T19:23:00.008-05:00

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to fly...to soar high above your troubles, sorrows and the negativity of our earthly world? I know it isn't possible at least in a literal sense. But if I close my eyes...if I clear my mind...I can take myself to a place that no one else can enter...I can soley take flight...feeling free to dream and hope of whatever my mind can imagine...to relish in the things that make me smile...a happy place where the wind takes me away...

Where do your dreams take you?

2009-08-26T20:35:00.009-05:00

Life is full of beauty. Notice it. Notice the bumble bee, the small child, and the smiling faces. Smell the rain, and feel the wind. Live your life to the fullest potential, and fight for your dreams.

- Ashley Smith

Truly Live

2009-08-25T19:43:00.004-05:00

I got a call from one of my older sons today...he made my heart sigh....he wasn't feeling well. I asked him if he needed anything and his reply...no...I just felt like talking to you. He is 22 years old...and still needs his mom.

I have never been a person that needed cards, presents or material show of care. It is moments like the one I had today that fill my heart and sustain me. It is the little things that stir my soul....the moments that happen unexpectedly...

My family is a gift of immeasurable proportion and I thank God every day for what he has given me...Love the people who you hold close to your heart...show them..tell them...if you do you will truly live.

Mother Nature

2009-08-20T16:50:00.009-05:00

We are surrounded by the most incredible inspiration when we walk out our doors....colors and textures...so many that you can be intoxicated by it's beauty. I am the most comfortable in the hands of mother nature...it soothes my soul.

I have been sketching ideas for new creations...some of my inspirations have been feathers, nests, plant roots, beautiful urns, rusty pails and plants that fall gently over the sides of their pots. I have found some treasures that have made their way into my heart...out onto paper....and will eventually be made into something that will become someone else's treasure.... passing along a little part of me.

The world is filled with wonders...waiting with open arms to surround you with it's healing touch.

Enjoy this day and fill it with the things you love!

Time To Fly

2009-08-17T19:46:00.003-05:00

There is something wonderfully unique about bees…Aerodynamically, the bumble bee shouldn't be able to fly. What makes them so miraculous is that they fly anyway. So I say…embrace life…wear the wings you want and fly….

So…here I am flying with my Queen Bee blog wings.

I truly believe that creative people…in order for their souls to survive must create…it is as much a necessity as the air we breathe. “Soul Work” as I call it…what comes from creativity... has eluded me for longer than any other time in my life…but now I feel as though the curtains of that dark room in my mind have been flung open and I am surrounded with the most brilliant light….

So here I am to share my light…to feed my creative soul …and to fly.