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| My beloved sister Gayla with two of our besties, M & J. |
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| Bestie Sosie with me in NOLA. |
How do you relax?
30 Eylül 2012 Pazar
August 15--NOT Best Friends Day; Happy Relaxation Day, Yo!
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If you've been following this blog for the last few days, then you know that today is BEST FRIENDS DAY! I think this is everyday but who am I to snub a celebration of the ones you love! Well, I might have been mistaken, which is only made worse by the fact that I cannot recreate my error in where I found my info. In addition to Google, Yahoo, and Fun Holidays, Holiday Insights says this day is June 8. I am still going to a tasting with my best friends today for their wedding and commitment ceremony. So booyah!
Today IS National Relaxation Day. Oh, what to do, what to do! I don't know if I'll have time to book a massage, my favorite form of relaxation. However, I might be able to persuade the Hubby Dearest to give me a foot massage. Have I mentioned that I am SPOILED well loved?!
How do you relax?
How do you relax?
1 PART REPOST/1 PART UPDATE: August 16--Happy Roller Coaster Day
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Happy Roller Coaster Day! A little more than a year ago, I shared a story of my fear of roller coasters. A little more than two weeks ago, I was riding that first booger, Space Mountain, once again. That's me with the big screaming mouth! Today is the anniversary of these little bits of crazy.
Repost from May 20, 2011:
Remember the blog on FEAR? Well, Space Mountain is another time I let my Gayla drag me into something kicking and screaming. When we were 13 and 15, respectively, Mama and Daddy took us to Disney World. Sister had one goal...Space Mountain! Being a chicken in every respect, I so did NOT want to ride a roller coaster.
I made Gayla promise the ride would not go upside down. She promised! Then she and I stood in line for an hour and a half. All the while, Gayla was beaming with excitement and I was listening to the screams of terror emitted from the pitch dark right above our heads.
Finally! It was our turn. I thought I might throw up as Gayla skipped to the little car where she claimed the front seat. I sat directly behind her, wrapped my arms around her real tight, and buried my head. Then, for the next 60 seconds, I screamed like a banshee right in sister's ear as we were zipped around in all directions in complete darkness.
At the end of the ride, when the lights go red as your ship is "landing," I think I hollered, "Oh, God! We're dead! We're in hell!" Gayla whipped around, glared at me with venom, and screamed at me, "You ruined it!" I felt horrible and tried to apologize. However, she would have none of it. To make it up to her, one of our parents stayed with her to stand in line and ride it without me while the other took me and Bubba to the Tea Cups.
I found a video of the ride with the lights on and have included the link so you can see how lame it looks with the lights on. Plus, I swear we were going faster than the video shows. Goes to show you, everything is scarier in the dark.
Happy Roller Coaster Day! A little more than a year ago, I shared a story of my fear of roller coasters. A little more than two weeks ago, I was riding that first booger, Space Mountain, once again. That's me with the big screaming mouth! Today is the anniversary of these little bits of crazy.Repost from May 20, 2011:
Remember the blog on FEAR? Well, Space Mountain is another time I let my Gayla drag me into something kicking and screaming. When we were 13 and 15, respectively, Mama and Daddy took us to Disney World. Sister had one goal...Space Mountain! Being a chicken in every respect, I so did NOT want to ride a roller coaster.
I made Gayla promise the ride would not go upside down. She promised! Then she and I stood in line for an hour and a half. All the while, Gayla was beaming with excitement and I was listening to the screams of terror emitted from the pitch dark right above our heads.
Finally! It was our turn. I thought I might throw up as Gayla skipped to the little car where she claimed the front seat. I sat directly behind her, wrapped my arms around her real tight, and buried my head. Then, for the next 60 seconds, I screamed like a banshee right in sister's ear as we were zipped around in all directions in complete darkness.
At the end of the ride, when the lights go red as your ship is "landing," I think I hollered, "Oh, God! We're dead! We're in hell!" Gayla whipped around, glared at me with venom, and screamed at me, "You ruined it!" I felt horrible and tried to apologize. However, she would have none of it. To make it up to her, one of our parents stayed with her to stand in line and ride it without me while the other took me and Bubba to the Tea Cups.
I found a video of the ride with the lights on and have included the link so you can see how lame it looks with the lights on. Plus, I swear we were going faster than the video shows. Goes to show you, everything is scarier in the dark.
Happy Birthday, Sister...You will always be loved.
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Gayla Leeanne, born of James and Brenda on August 21, 1972. She was a perfect little guinea pig first child. She taught us all how to love unconditionally and give whole heartedly. Sister was taken way too early from our family on March 19, 2011. Thirty-eight years, six months and 26 days will never be enough time to to explain what she meant to not only us but to every life she touched.
I thank my parents for giving Bubba and I the perfect big sister. She embraced us for our little weirdnesses and loved us anyway. Gayla was the perfect aunt for my darling daughter. She loved her as if she were of our blood and bone. Sister went out of her way to support our little family and be a part of all the little milestones.
Say a little prayer on August 21 and have a toast, some birthday cake, and embrace the day for the beautiful woman who God made for us to love forever.
I thank my parents for giving Bubba and I the perfect big sister. She embraced us for our little weirdnesses and loved us anyway. Gayla was the perfect aunt for my darling daughter. She loved her as if she were of our blood and bone. Sister went out of her way to support our little family and be a part of all the little milestones.
Say a little prayer on August 21 and have a toast, some birthday cake, and embrace the day for the beautiful woman who God made for us to love forever.
August 24--Have A Peach Waffle and Listen to Some Crazy Beats...Then Call This Day Celebrated
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Holy all things in a hurry...so much has been going on that I haven't had a chance to pause long enough to update the blog! Last week, I became a teacher again! After waiting till day before yesterday for the FBI to give me the go-for-it, I hit the ground running at the speed of light since the first day of school is this coming Monday. I am thrilled to be heading back into my heart career. I am so unprepared at this point that I am running on pure "this has to get done" juice.
It's Friday! Since everyday is a celebration, it's perfect to combine the greatness of today and say, "Have a waffle slathered in peaches while listening to some crazy music and call today CELEBRATED!"
Here's some fun crazy to get you in the spirit...I LOVE GENIUS THAT TAKES A SONG THAT HAS BEEN PLAYED TO CLICHE AND MAKES IT FUN AGAIN!
It's Friday! Since everyday is a celebration, it's perfect to combine the greatness of today and say, "Have a waffle slathered in peaches while listening to some crazy music and call today CELEBRATED!"
Here's some fun crazy to get you in the spirit...I LOVE GENIUS THAT TAKES A SONG THAT HAS BEEN PLAYED TO CLICHE AND MAKES IT FUN AGAIN!
There's A Day for Everything!September
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One might say I am quirky (most call me weird). However, in my book, it is perfectly okay to embrace each day as if it is special. In fact, I am going out in search of the special in each day. If you know of one I haven't found, please do share.
September (National Honey Month)
First Monday--Labor Day
First Sunday after Labor Day--Grandparent's Day
1--Calendar Adjustment Day
2--V-J Day
3--Skyscraper Day and MyMike's birthday!
4--Newspaper Carrier Day (so please take a day off guy who throws a paper at my lawn every other day)
5--Be Late for Something Day (bahahaha!)
6--Don't Procrastinate Day
7--Salami Day
8--International Literacy Day
9--Teddy Bear Day
10--Sewing Machine Day and TV Dinner Day
11--Remembrance Day aka Patriot Day
12--Chocolate Milkshake Day
13--Positive Thinking Day and Peanut Day
14--Stand Up to Cancer Day
15--Greenpeace Day
16--Step Family Day and Play-Dough Day
17--Constitution Day
18--National Cheeseburger Day
19--Talk Like A Pirate Day
20--In honor of this being self-improvement month, do something for yourself!
21--International Peace Day and Packer's Birthday!
22--First Day of Autumn, Elephant Appreciation Day, and Mike and Jeremy Get Married!
23--Presidential Dog Day
24--National Punctuation Day
25--Mary Poppins Day and Comic Book Day and One Hit Wonder Day
26--Johnny Appleseed Day (sing along! "oh the Lord's been good to me, and so I thank the Lord, for giving me the things I need like the sun and the rain and the apple seed")
27--Tourism Day
Fourth Friday--Native Indian/American Day
28--First Born Nephew Day (yeah! I made this one up but it's real to me! Love you Thing 1!)
29--Heck yeah! COFFEE DAY y'all
30--In honor of September being Better Breakfast month, take your spouse to breakfast today.
Please share if you know of a special day in September that I need to include!
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| myMike and Me |
First Monday--Labor Day
First Sunday after Labor Day--Grandparent's Day
1--Calendar Adjustment Day
2--V-J Day
3--Skyscraper Day and MyMike's birthday!
4--Newspaper Carrier Day (so please take a day off guy who throws a paper at my lawn every other day)
5--Be Late for Something Day (bahahaha!)
6--Don't Procrastinate Day
7--Salami Day
8--International Literacy Day
9--Teddy Bear Day
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| Me and Darling Daughter |
11--Remembrance Day aka Patriot Day
12--Chocolate Milkshake Day
13--Positive Thinking Day and Peanut Day
14--Stand Up to Cancer Day
15--Greenpeace Day
16--Step Family Day and Play-Dough Day
17--Constitution Day
18--National Cheeseburger Day
19--Talk Like A Pirate Day
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| ARRRGyle the Sock Pirate |
21--International Peace Day and Packer's Birthday!
22--First Day of Autumn, Elephant Appreciation Day, and Mike and Jeremy Get Married!
23--Presidential Dog Day
24--National Punctuation Day
25--Mary Poppins Day and Comic Book Day and One Hit Wonder Day
26--Johnny Appleseed Day (sing along! "oh the Lord's been good to me, and so I thank the Lord, for giving me the things I need like the sun and the rain and the apple seed")
27--Tourism Day
Fourth Friday--Native Indian/American Day
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| Packer and Thing 1 in 2009 |
29--Heck yeah! COFFEE DAY y'all
30--In honor of September being Better Breakfast month, take your spouse to breakfast today.
Please share if you know of a special day in September that I need to include!
29 Eylül 2012 Cumartesi
Erin & Doug~Sneak Peek
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Like so many other wonderful couples, Erin and Doug have chosen Lake Tahoe as the location to begin their married lives together. With a beach side ceremony and dinner reception held at The North Tahoe Events Center in King's Beach, they are off to a great start, as family and friends witness this momentous occasion.
For their wedding day, Erin and Doug have chosen colors to use that reflect the natural beauty of Lake Tahoe and the surrounding sand and forest. Soft mocha satin and aquamarine blue will fill the reception hall with color, bringing the outdoor inside, and creating a space that is uniquely Erin and Doug.
We are excited to be a part of Erin and Doug's wedding day, and wish them years and years of happiness, and love.
For additional information regarding The North Tahoe Events Center;Liane McCombs Wedding & Event Planning775.786.1730lianemccombs@gmail.comVoted Northern Nevada's # 1 Wedding Coordination Company
For their wedding day, Erin and Doug have chosen colors to use that reflect the natural beauty of Lake Tahoe and the surrounding sand and forest. Soft mocha satin and aquamarine blue will fill the reception hall with color, bringing the outdoor inside, and creating a space that is uniquely Erin and Doug.
We are excited to be a part of Erin and Doug's wedding day, and wish them years and years of happiness, and love.
For additional information regarding The North Tahoe Events Center;Liane McCombs Wedding & Event Planning775.786.1730lianemccombs@gmail.comVoted Northern Nevada's # 1 Wedding Coordination Company
Julianna and Bryan! Sneak Peek
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Julianna and Bryan have planned a romantic, enchanted forest wedding at Lake Tahoe, with their wedding ceremony and dinner reception to be held at the historic Valhalla Estate.
Julianna has been collecting antiques and special decor to fit her wedding day theme, for over a year. With massive farm tables and vintage lace linens, her decor will really make a statement, and one that is certain to reflect her unique and adorable personality and style.
We are thrilled to be a part of the wedding plans for this remarkable couple. We anxiously await tomorrow when they will exchange wedding vows, and become husband and wife.
For additional information on Valhalla Estate Weddings at Lake Tahoe;Liane McCombs Wedding & Event Planinng 775.786.1730lianemccombs@gmail.comVoted Northern Nevada's #1 Wedding Coordination Company!
Julianna and Bryan have planned a romantic, enchanted forest wedding at Lake Tahoe, with their wedding ceremony and dinner reception to be held at the historic Valhalla Estate.Julianna has been collecting antiques and special decor to fit her wedding day theme, for over a year. With massive farm tables and vintage lace linens, her decor will really make a statement, and one that is certain to reflect her unique and adorable personality and style.
We are thrilled to be a part of the wedding plans for this remarkable couple. We anxiously await tomorrow when they will exchange wedding vows, and become husband and wife.
For additional information on Valhalla Estate Weddings at Lake Tahoe;Liane McCombs Wedding & Event Planinng 775.786.1730lianemccombs@gmail.comVoted Northern Nevada's #1 Wedding Coordination Company!
Carie and Joe~Sneak Peek
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The historic town of Dayton, Nevada, and home for Carie and Joe, will also be the place where their lives will become one, as they are married this Sunday.
Also historic, The Gold Canyon Steak House will serve as their wedding ceremony location and reception venue. Outside on the back lawn, among the ancient trees, they will exchange wedding vows and participate in a broom and a sand ceremony, with two of their terrific children.
The Steak House is a fantastically charming venue, with vintage charm in every room. With an open stonework wall, and intimate tables and chairs in each room, you feel as though you have stepped back in time.
We are so excited for Carie and Joe to be married this Sunday. Carie has created wax-sealed, scolled wedding ceremony programs, with a small sandalwood fan inserted into each one. Personalized satin bags contain lavender and cedar, a favor for each guest to take home as a memento from this special day. Small tin pails containing chocolate nuggets will also be given to each guest, along with a personalized bookmark.Guests will tie ribbons onto the broom, making a wish for love and good luck to the newly married couple.
It will be a fabulous day filled with history and symbolism, and we are grateful to be there with Carie and Joe.
For additional information on wedding coordination;Liane McCombs Wedding & Event Planinng775.786.1730lianemccombs@gmail.com
The historic town of Dayton, Nevada, and home for Carie and Joe, will also be the place where their lives will become one, as they are married this Sunday. Also historic, The Gold Canyon Steak House will serve as their wedding ceremony location and reception venue. Outside on the back lawn, among the ancient trees, they will exchange wedding vows and participate in a broom and a sand ceremony, with two of their terrific children.
The Steak House is a fantastically charming venue, with vintage charm in every room. With an open stonework wall, and intimate tables and chairs in each room, you feel as though you have stepped back in time.
We are so excited for Carie and Joe to be married this Sunday. Carie has created wax-sealed, scolled wedding ceremony programs, with a small sandalwood fan inserted into each one. Personalized satin bags contain lavender and cedar, a favor for each guest to take home as a memento from this special day. Small tin pails containing chocolate nuggets will also be given to each guest, along with a personalized bookmark.Guests will tie ribbons onto the broom, making a wish for love and good luck to the newly married couple.
It will be a fabulous day filled with history and symbolism, and we are grateful to be there with Carie and Joe.
For additional information on wedding coordination;Liane McCombs Wedding & Event Planinng775.786.1730lianemccombs@gmail.com
Carie & Joe's Wedding
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Today was another special day where two lives and families became one. After coordinating hundreds and hundreds of weddings, I am always amazed that on the wedding day, the bride is still someone's little girl, and the groom is the little boy that his mom and dad have loved his whole life. I am blessed to be able see the entire perspective and how the bride and groom fit into their families.
What a joy to see a young man dance with his Grandma, or a bride dancing in the arms of her Daddy. These are the moments that we cherish all our lives, and today was no different.
With a unique style, perfect for this little historic Gold Rush town from which they reside, Carie and Joe blended two families and began a life together.
Here are some images from Carie and Joe's wedding day in Dayton, Nevada.
Set in this historic gold and silver town, their wedding was held on the back lawn at an antique restaurant, the Gold Canyon Steak House.
Carie was one creative bride and not only created her bouquet and the wedding favors, but also dyed the roses blue, for the centerpieces. Little tin pails held blue chocolate, gold-nuggets, and personalized "bride" and "groom" forks were the cake topper.
The bride wore royal blue, and looked like a beautiful Victorian bride, with a peacock feathered bird cage veil in her hair. Joe wore a vintage hat, ascot tie and vest, and escorted his mother and grandmother down the aisle.
Carie and Joe, it was such a blessing to be with you on this very special day of your wedding. Thank you for trusting us with your wedding coordination needs. Our best wishes to you always! Liane
Large or small, vintage or modern, every wedding is special to the individual. We want your day to reflect you, and no one else! We are here to assist you with whatever you find most useful, as you prepare for your wedding day.
For additional information regarding wedding coordination services;Liane McCombs Wedding & Event Planning775.786.1730lianemccombs@gmail.comVoted Northern Nevada's # 1 Wedding Coordination Company
What a joy to see a young man dance with his Grandma, or a bride dancing in the arms of her Daddy. These are the moments that we cherish all our lives, and today was no different.
With a unique style, perfect for this little historic Gold Rush town from which they reside, Carie and Joe blended two families and began a life together.
Here are some images from Carie and Joe's wedding day in Dayton, Nevada.
Set in this historic gold and silver town, their wedding was held on the back lawn at an antique restaurant, the Gold Canyon Steak House.
Carie was one creative bride and not only created her bouquet and the wedding favors, but also dyed the roses blue, for the centerpieces. Little tin pails held blue chocolate, gold-nuggets, and personalized "bride" and "groom" forks were the cake topper.
The bride wore royal blue, and looked like a beautiful Victorian bride, with a peacock feathered bird cage veil in her hair. Joe wore a vintage hat, ascot tie and vest, and escorted his mother and grandmother down the aisle.
Carie and Joe, it was such a blessing to be with you on this very special day of your wedding. Thank you for trusting us with your wedding coordination needs. Our best wishes to you always! Liane Large or small, vintage or modern, every wedding is special to the individual. We want your day to reflect you, and no one else! We are here to assist you with whatever you find most useful, as you prepare for your wedding day.
For additional information regarding wedding coordination services;Liane McCombs Wedding & Event Planning775.786.1730lianemccombs@gmail.comVoted Northern Nevada's # 1 Wedding Coordination Company
Julianna & Bryan's Wedding
To contact us Click HERE
The historic estate of Valhalla, was built in 1924. For many years, it served as a family home, but today, it one of the most popular wedding sites on all of Lake Tahoe. It's rustic wooden charm, is unlike any other place at The Lake.
The large Grand Hall, is the perfect location for a wedding ceremony, then changed-over, it becomes the finest dining space, with a huge dance floor in the center!
It is here, that Julianna and Bryan were married this past Saturday, the very first day of Fall. With a vintage, enchanted forest theme, Valhalla looked quite spectacular! Julianna radiated, as the day she and Bryan had planned for so long, had finally arrived.
The wedding cake was created by Julianna's Maid of Honor... Quite a beautiful and delicious dessert!
Each dining table centerpiece consisted of a different arrangement...all antiques that Julianna had acquired while working at an antique store.
Vintage books, clocks, globes, crystals and tons of flowers adorned each table.
One last image before Julianna and her Dad make their way down the aisle.
Julianna wore a fabulous lace gown, with a head wreath instead of a veil.
Bryan wore his Grandpa's silver dollar bolo tie....so cute!
The Head Tables and Sweetheart tables, fit perfectly into the hearth space at the front of the room.
The large center space was perfect for dancing to the band's lively music!Bryan's father and his so-workers, have the greatest bluegrass band, "Contraband", that got everyone up and dancing! The highlight were the bagpipes and fiddle! So. Much. Fun!
It was such an honor to have assisted Julianna with the design, planning and coordination of her wedding. We are so excited for this wonderful couple, and wish them happiness and love that lasts... forever!
For assistance with your wedding coordination needs, Lake Tahoe and Valhalla Grand Estate Weddings; Liane McCombs Wedding & Event Planning775.786.1730lianemccombs@gmail.comVoted Northern Nevada's # 1 Wedding Coordination Company!
The large Grand Hall, is the perfect location for a wedding ceremony, then changed-over, it becomes the finest dining space, with a huge dance floor in the center!
It is here, that Julianna and Bryan were married this past Saturday, the very first day of Fall. With a vintage, enchanted forest theme, Valhalla looked quite spectacular! Julianna radiated, as the day she and Bryan had planned for so long, had finally arrived.
The wedding cake was created by Julianna's Maid of Honor... Quite a beautiful and delicious dessert! Each dining table centerpiece consisted of a different arrangement...all antiques that Julianna had acquired while working at an antique store. Vintage books, clocks, globes, crystals and tons of flowers adorned each table. One last image before Julianna and her Dad make their way down the aisle.Julianna wore a fabulous lace gown, with a head wreath instead of a veil.
Bryan wore his Grandpa's silver dollar bolo tie....so cute!
The Head Tables and Sweetheart tables, fit perfectly into the hearth space at the front of the room. The large center space was perfect for dancing to the band's lively music!Bryan's father and his so-workers, have the greatest bluegrass band, "Contraband", that got everyone up and dancing! The highlight were the bagpipes and fiddle! So. Much. Fun!It was such an honor to have assisted Julianna with the design, planning and coordination of her wedding. We are so excited for this wonderful couple, and wish them happiness and love that lasts... forever!For assistance with your wedding coordination needs, Lake Tahoe and Valhalla Grand Estate Weddings; Liane McCombs Wedding & Event Planning775.786.1730lianemccombs@gmail.comVoted Northern Nevada's # 1 Wedding Coordination Company!
28 Eylül 2012 Cuma
Sept. 9--Teddy Bear Day
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I don't remember having a teddy bear as a child. I do have a recollection of my Bubba having a Pooh Bear that was toted everywhere until the fateful day that Pooh took a dive out of an open car window and was run over by the back tires. You would think the little man would cry, demand Pooh have a bath in the washing machine, and then go on with his three-year-old life as if no harm had come to the little bear. My memory is that we had to have a funeral for the toy bear, prayers and all. I think we may have buried him too but that part is fuzzy. I'll have to ask Packer if there is an old, beat-up Pooh bear in the Nephews' (Thing1 and Thing2) inherited toy collection.
Nevertheless, today is Teddy Bear Day! In 1902, US President Teddy Roosevelt's refusal to shoot a bear that had been caught and tied to a tree by his shooting party, stating they had been less than sportsman-like in their pursuit, garnered some attention from the media. Morris Michtom of the Ideal Novelty and Toy Co. also paid homage to the President's act of humanity and created a toy bear cub. He called it Teddy's Bear. That's how we come to call our stuffed friends Teddy Bears. Who feels like they learned something? I DO! I DO!
Check out this amigurumi teddy I crocheted for Thing2! I have no pattern because I wasn't using one. I just kept crocheting in the round until I had the trunk of the bear. Then I made two arms and two legs. I stuffed the little guy with a corrugated yarn that I would never have used for anything because that stuff is ridiculously difficult to work with. It's not pretty, but I like it...so did Thing2.
Nevertheless, today is Teddy Bear Day! In 1902, US President Teddy Roosevelt's refusal to shoot a bear that had been caught and tied to a tree by his shooting party, stating they had been less than sportsman-like in their pursuit, garnered some attention from the media. Morris Michtom of the Ideal Novelty and Toy Co. also paid homage to the President's act of humanity and created a toy bear cub. He called it Teddy's Bear. That's how we come to call our stuffed friends Teddy Bears. Who feels like they learned something? I DO! I DO!Check out this amigurumi teddy I crocheted for Thing2! I have no pattern because I wasn't using one. I just kept crocheting in the round until I had the trunk of the bear. Then I made two arms and two legs. I stuffed the little guy with a corrugated yarn that I would never have used for anything because that stuff is ridiculously difficult to work with. It's not pretty, but I like it...so did Thing2.
Sept. 10--TV Dinner Day
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There really is a day for everything! Besides being Sewing Machine Day, today is TV Dinner Day! Swanson brought us the first frozen meal way back when it was served in a metal sectioned tin pan that was warmed in the oven. Now we nuke most TV Dinners in the microwave, with a few companies making some that are still cooked in the oven. For a full history, check out Wikipedia (don't judge...I was in a hurry).
I am not ashamed to tell the world, I feed my family frozen dinners! I would rather spend what little time we have together in the evening crafting with darling daughter, crocheting while we watch television TOGETHER, and being a family. Plus, we have a few standards like lasagna and enchiladas that everyone can agree upon, something that is sometimes difficult with picky eaters. I do have dreams of cooking big on weekends and freezing but that still hasn't come to be a reality even after my extensive research and hours of cooking show know-how.
What shortcuts do you take to give yourself more time with your kin and kindred?
There really is a day for everything! Besides being Sewing Machine Day, today is TV Dinner Day! Swanson brought us the first frozen meal way back when it was served in a metal sectioned tin pan that was warmed in the oven. Now we nuke most TV Dinners in the microwave, with a few companies making some that are still cooked in the oven. For a full history, check out Wikipedia (don't judge...I was in a hurry).I am not ashamed to tell the world, I feed my family frozen dinners! I would rather spend what little time we have together in the evening crafting with darling daughter, crocheting while we watch television TOGETHER, and being a family. Plus, we have a few standards like lasagna and enchiladas that everyone can agree upon, something that is sometimes difficult with picky eaters. I do have dreams of cooking big on weekends and freezing but that still hasn't come to be a reality even after my extensive research and hours of cooking show know-how.
What shortcuts do you take to give yourself more time with your kin and kindred?
Sept. 11--Hero Day, Patriot Day, Rememberance Day
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I love being back in the school system teaching once again. I especially love that my school has deemed today Hero Day. Students and faculty were encouraged to dress up as their hero with the understanding that superheroes were not included in the activity. I won't dress up as my hero because I have too many to pick just one.
First, myGayla was my life-long hero. From the time I was old enough to say GA-LA and toddle after my older sister imitating everything she did, she was my hero. I spent 36 years following in her footsteps and listening to her wise words whenever I would fall down and she would pick me back up. If I had to pick one lesson that she taught me over any other, it would be to love myself and see myself they way she did. Each day living without my sister is a lesson in getting back up when life knocks you down. Some days I bounce back pretty quickly. Most days, I just have to internally yell at myself to get up and get moving because Gayla expects it of me.
The next heroes on my list are Hubby Dearest and Darling Daughter. Bless their hearts. On those days where I am stuck at neither bouncing up nor moving forward, they are there with hugs, compassion, and loving words of encouragement. HD has held me while I scream in agony, held my hand when I had to be brave despite my fear and anxiety, and held my heart protectively close to his own. DD has reminded me to be kind to myself and told me in no uncertain terms that she is "happy you are part of our lives because you know Daddy and I would never make it anywhere on time without you."
MeMaw and PapaJames are next on this long list of heroes. They are my parents and, in my eyes, have always been the infallible, just, and compassionate hearts that have made me who I am today. They taught me how to love my fellow man and instilled in my heart a desire to "save the world." Because of their love for one another and their love for our family (both blood kin and those of our choosing), I am able to give my whole heart to those I love and fight the good fight for what I believe.
This blog post could go on and on with all the heroes with whom I have been blessed. Little Rascals, you've picked up the broken parts of me and helped in putting them back together. You've brought me uncontrollable laughter at some pretty inappropriate times. Your unconditional love and support have made all the difference in my life.
Finally, to my former and current students, you give me a purpose each day. To my fans, you read my tra-la-la and my boo-hoo-hoo, and you still continue to follow this little bit of crazy each day. I thank you all and send you my most heartfelt hugs today. You are my heroes!
First, myGayla was my life-long hero. From the time I was old enough to say GA-LA and toddle after my older sister imitating everything she did, she was my hero. I spent 36 years following in her footsteps and listening to her wise words whenever I would fall down and she would pick me back up. If I had to pick one lesson that she taught me over any other, it would be to love myself and see myself they way she did. Each day living without my sister is a lesson in getting back up when life knocks you down. Some days I bounce back pretty quickly. Most days, I just have to internally yell at myself to get up and get moving because Gayla expects it of me. The next heroes on my list are Hubby Dearest and Darling Daughter. Bless their hearts. On those days where I am stuck at neither bouncing up nor moving forward, they are there with hugs, compassion, and loving words of encouragement. HD has held me while I scream in agony, held my hand when I had to be brave despite my fear and anxiety, and held my heart protectively close to his own. DD has reminded me to be kind to myself and told me in no uncertain terms that she is "happy you are part of our lives because you know Daddy and I would never make it anywhere on time without you."MeMaw and PapaJames are next on this long list of heroes. They are my parents and, in my eyes, have always been the infallible, just, and compassionate hearts that have made me who I am today. They taught me how to love my fellow man and instilled in my heart a desire to "save the world." Because of their love for one another and their love for our family (both blood kin and those of our choosing), I am able to give my whole heart to those I love and fight the good fight for what I believe.
This blog post could go on and on with all the heroes with whom I have been blessed. Little Rascals, you've picked up the broken parts of me and helped in putting them back together. You've brought me uncontrollable laughter at some pretty inappropriate times. Your unconditional love and support have made all the difference in my life.
Finally, to my former and current students, you give me a purpose each day. To my fans, you read my tra-la-la and my boo-hoo-hoo, and you still continue to follow this little bit of crazy each day. I thank you all and send you my most heartfelt hugs today. You are my heroes!
Sept. 12--Chocolate Milk-shake Day
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In honor of today being Chocolate Milkshake Day, I have a joke for you that only a select few will give a chuckle.
There are two penguins on an iceberg. The iceberg breaks apart sending one penguin one way and the other penguin in the opposite direction. The first penguin screams, "Bye, my love! I will miss you and love you forever!!!"The second penguin yells back, "CHOCOLATE MILK!"
If you aren't laughing, I won't hold it against you. Just know that for those in my life that have a hard time saying, "I Love You," I always know what they mean when they say, "CHOCOLATE MILK!"
NOTE: Send all your prayers for my beloved Daddy who is having back surgery today. I am a nervous wreck and can't focus for squat!
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| PHOTO SOURCE |
There are two penguins on an iceberg. The iceberg breaks apart sending one penguin one way and the other penguin in the opposite direction. The first penguin screams, "Bye, my love! I will miss you and love you forever!!!"The second penguin yells back, "CHOCOLATE MILK!"
If you aren't laughing, I won't hold it against you. Just know that for those in my life that have a hard time saying, "I Love You," I always know what they mean when they say, "CHOCOLATE MILK!"
NOTE: Send all your prayers for my beloved Daddy who is having back surgery today. I am a nervous wreck and can't focus for squat!
Sept. 13--Positive Thinking Day
To contact us Click HERE
I have tried to always be a positive thinker. I used to be the first person to say, "There's a reason for this. You'll see." I thought that was a positive outlook, always seeking the silver lining. Then a nut-bag of an ex-BOYfriend told me that I was a fatalist because of this outlook. So which is it? Am I forever looking for the silver lining or just resigned to having no control? Whatever the outcome, I'll keep looking for the positive each day, especially today.
By the way...silver lining explanation. When dark or darker clouds block the sun, a bright outline appears around the cloud. I see this as even in the dark times, there is always a sun just waiting to brighten the day. Be blessed!
I have tried to always be a positive thinker. I used to be the first person to say, "There's a reason for this. You'll see." I thought that was a positive outlook, always seeking the silver lining. Then a nut-bag of an ex-BOYfriend told me that I was a fatalist because of this outlook. So which is it? Am I forever looking for the silver lining or just resigned to having no control? Whatever the outcome, I'll keep looking for the positive each day, especially today.By the way...silver lining explanation. When dark or darker clouds block the sun, a bright outline appears around the cloud. I see this as even in the dark times, there is always a sun just waiting to brighten the day. Be blessed!
27 Eylül 2012 Perşembe
Top Three Things I've Gained from Pinterest
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What was life like before Pinterest? Dark? Lonely? Lacking in color?
I'm only kidding. Sort of.
I will say, though, that the world of Pinterest has connected me with other bloggers and projects and ideas I never would have otherwise known. There are some, however, that stand out more than others. So, I thought I'd round up my top three because, in my opinion, these are worth sharing.
1. Going 'Poo-Free'
Yep. Weird, I know. Sounds weird if you don't know what that is already...and maybe it sounds weird if you do know what it is already.
Now, I know and am prepared for you to judge me. That's OK. But before I delve into this one, please let me defend myself on one important fact: I am not a granola-crunching, Birkenstock-wearing, save-the-environment, will-do-anything-in-the-name-of-healthy kind of person. Well, I do care about the environment and being healthy but I'm not an extremist by any means.
So, let's carry on, shall we?
A few months ago, I was surfing around on the main page of Pinterest, looking at stuff people I don't know had pinned. And I saw the words 'Poo-Free'. Um, what the heck? I thought. So I clicked on it. A skeptic, I started reading about this lady who started using baking soda and vinegar in place of her store-bought shampoo and vinegar. What a weirdy...I thought. And then I got to the reasons WHY she did it. I'll re-cap, but please read her blog for the full why and how-to.
The three reasons she (her blog is simplemom.net, btw) lists:
And then I read this one. I had just been thinking, vinegar? Stinky! when I read her recipe of a teaspoon of vanilla, a pinch of nutmeg and a pinch of cinnamon to mask the vinegar smell. (P.S. This smells AWESOME.)
Well...those got me thinking. I have crazy oily hair...always have. And I lose approximately 28% of my hair down the drain every.single.time. For a girl with thin hair, this is NOT cool.
So I casually brought it up in conversation with Cowboy. Would he think I was crazy? Or weird and extreme? Or would he call off the wedding?
I'm only joking...sort of. So I sauntered through a conversation, throwing in the idea, moving on, then circling back to wonder aloud what he thought of the idea. He really did.not.care.
So there I was, a month before the wedding. And I did it. And do you want to know what? I'm a believer...100%. Here's why:
2. DIY Pore Strips
Also beauty-routine-related, this one has absolutely nothing to do with chemicals and everything to do with budget. You know those pore deep-cleansing strips? You know...the ones you pay $18 for 10 chances to rip the skin on your nose off?
Yeah...I happen to (much to my bank account's and nose's demise) love those.
So when I saw that you could make your own pore cleansing mask (read: not just your nose!) for a few cents, I ran to the store like a mad woman looking for unflavored gelatin. One package of unflavored gelatin + a tablespoon or 2 of milk + a few seconds in the microwave. That's all. Read the original post here.
3. Homemade Greek Yogurt
OK, so I, like many of you, really like the idea of eating natural, non-processed foods...no fillers, no preservatives, no fake sugar. I REALLY like that idea...and more often than not, I try to hold our meals to these standards. You feel better when you eat healthy...you just do. Better enough that the thought of fast food makes my stomach churn. But, there's a certain cost to eating healthy. And we all know, as exhibited by Whole Foods scheme to take the economy down one kale leaf at a time, that organic is usually better...but WAY more expensive.
So when I saw this tutorial/recipe for homemade greek yogurt, I thought, you can DO that?! So I read through the directions. Meh...seemed like a lot of work to me, but thoughts of no preservatives and half-priced greek yogurt conned me into trying it. Turns out, it was actually the number of steps that had conned me. It is SUPER easy, you guys! Actual hands-on time is very minimal. I've done it both in a crock pot and in the oven. That means greek yogurt for the cost of a half-gallon of milk (so, usually half of what a container of store-bought greek yogurt would cost), and NO preservatives, fake sugars or fake "fruit"!
And then sometimes the stars align and this happens:
Yep...I made a batch of greek yogurt for 50 cents that week.
So what about you guys? What kind of tutorials/recipes/ideas/blogs has Pinterest introduced to you that has pretty much blown your mind and changed your world?
I'm only kidding. Sort of.
I will say, though, that the world of Pinterest has connected me with other bloggers and projects and ideas I never would have otherwise known. There are some, however, that stand out more than others. So, I thought I'd round up my top three because, in my opinion, these are worth sharing.
1. Going 'Poo-Free'
Yep. Weird, I know. Sounds weird if you don't know what that is already...and maybe it sounds weird if you do know what it is already.
Now, I know and am prepared for you to judge me. That's OK. But before I delve into this one, please let me defend myself on one important fact: I am not a granola-crunching, Birkenstock-wearing, save-the-environment, will-do-anything-in-the-name-of-healthy kind of person. Well, I do care about the environment and being healthy but I'm not an extremist by any means.
So, let's carry on, shall we?
A few months ago, I was surfing around on the main page of Pinterest, looking at stuff people I don't know had pinned. And I saw the words 'Poo-Free'. Um, what the heck? I thought. So I clicked on it. A skeptic, I started reading about this lady who started using baking soda and vinegar in place of her store-bought shampoo and vinegar. What a weirdy...I thought. And then I got to the reasons WHY she did it. I'll re-cap, but please read her blog for the full why and how-to.
The three reasons she (her blog is simplemom.net, btw) lists:
- Shampoo is a detergent
- Shampoo has all sorts of chemicals (um--read this if you want to know what kind of chemicals)
- Shampoo is an unnecessary cost
And then I read this one. I had just been thinking, vinegar? Stinky! when I read her recipe of a teaspoon of vanilla, a pinch of nutmeg and a pinch of cinnamon to mask the vinegar smell. (P.S. This smells AWESOME.)
Well...those got me thinking. I have crazy oily hair...always have. And I lose approximately 28% of my hair down the drain every.single.time. For a girl with thin hair, this is NOT cool.
So I casually brought it up in conversation with Cowboy. Would he think I was crazy? Or weird and extreme? Or would he call off the wedding?
I'm only joking...sort of. So I sauntered through a conversation, throwing in the idea, moving on, then circling back to wonder aloud what he thought of the idea. He really did.not.care.
So there I was, a month before the wedding. And I did it. And do you want to know what? I'm a believer...100%. Here's why:
- It is CHEAP. I just bought a big box of baking soda for 56 cents. At a tablespoon per use, do you know how long that 56 cents is going to last me?
- It's baking soda. If it's healthy enough to be in my food (err...cookies), it will do zero harm to my skin or hair. Picture it (uh, or don't)...your skin is wet, ready to soak in anything you give it. Hey, want to throw some laundry detergent on your head? Of course not! So why would you?
- Speaking of skin--this one took me by surprise. Since I started running regularly a few years ago, I've gone through the worst break-outs on my shoulders and chest (sorry, tmi). When I started half-marathon and full-marathon training, you KNOW all hell broke loose. I would shower as soon as possible to get the grime off, but apparently, the shampoo was only agitating it more. When I switched to baking soda/vinegar, the break-outs stopped completely. NOT kidding.
- My hair
iswas painlessly limp, flat and thin. Now? Not at all. It has a certain healthy body to it. I can't explain it, but it's like my hair was depressed by shampoo (regardless of brand...you name it, I've tried it!) and then when I took it away, it threw a party and started doing whatever I wanted it to. - Want more proof? So I wouldn't have to mess with it when we went on our honeymoon (uh, baking soda + squeeze bottles of water + vinegar + carry on = no thank you), I packed travel sized bottles of regular shampoo and conditioner. Big mistake. I literally undid everything. My hair freaked out and stayed freakishly close to my head, I was attacked by a static monster, and my skin went on strike in form of major break-outs. You know I kissed the baking soda when I got home.
2. DIY Pore Strips
Also beauty-routine-related, this one has absolutely nothing to do with chemicals and everything to do with budget. You know those pore deep-cleansing strips? You know...the ones you pay $18 for 10 chances to rip the skin on your nose off?
Yeah...I happen to (much to my bank account's and nose's demise) love those.
So when I saw that you could make your own pore cleansing mask (read: not just your nose!) for a few cents, I ran to the store like a mad woman looking for unflavored gelatin. One package of unflavored gelatin + a tablespoon or 2 of milk + a few seconds in the microwave. That's all. Read the original post here.
3. Homemade Greek Yogurt
OK, so I, like many of you, really like the idea of eating natural, non-processed foods...no fillers, no preservatives, no fake sugar. I REALLY like that idea...and more often than not, I try to hold our meals to these standards. You feel better when you eat healthy...you just do. Better enough that the thought of fast food makes my stomach churn. But, there's a certain cost to eating healthy. And we all know, as exhibited by Whole Foods scheme to take the economy down one kale leaf at a time, that organic is usually better...but WAY more expensive.
So when I saw this tutorial/recipe for homemade greek yogurt, I thought, you can DO that?! So I read through the directions. Meh...seemed like a lot of work to me, but thoughts of no preservatives and half-priced greek yogurt conned me into trying it. Turns out, it was actually the number of steps that had conned me. It is SUPER easy, you guys! Actual hands-on time is very minimal. I've done it both in a crock pot and in the oven. That means greek yogurt for the cost of a half-gallon of milk (so, usually half of what a container of store-bought greek yogurt would cost), and NO preservatives, fake sugars or fake "fruit"!
And then sometimes the stars align and this happens:
Yep...I made a batch of greek yogurt for 50 cents that week.
So what about you guys? What kind of tutorials/recipes/ideas/blogs has Pinterest introduced to you that has pretty much blown your mind and changed your world?
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