Aunt Theresa's Adventures

Florida Oranges...so YUMMY!

2012-02-14T21:36:00.000-07:00

Grandpa and grandma sent us some yummy oranges from Florida.

Emma was so excited.

They are so yummy and we are enjoying every sweet bite!

Pillow Love

2012-02-06T18:24:00.003-07:00

I love crocheting little granny squares & putting them in little piles.

Then I crochet them together with a little help from sweet Daisy.

They turn into these little pillows that are just to cute.

Emma & Clementine

2012-02-05T19:38:00.000-07:00

My sweet friend Sarah sent Emma this sweet little doll. Her name is Clementine and Emma just loves her.

Isn't she sweet?

You can order one from Nicole at http://wherethedandelionsgrow.blogspot.com/.

Russian Dolls

2012-02-02T12:57:00.001-07:00

I finally finished my first set of these sweet Russian dolls.

Aren't they cute?

Russian Dolls

2012-01-28T18:46:00.000-07:00

I love these Babushka dolls that I'm crocheting.

They take patience and I've had to learn some stitching but the time into them has been so worth it.

Instructions for these and other cute projects can be found in this book...http://www.amazon.com/Cute-Easy-Crochet-Adorable-Projects/dp/1907563202/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1327801376&sr=8-1

Slowly Making Progress

2012-01-15T11:14:00.000-07:00

I am slowly making progress on the niece's quilt. I will get it done.

Every night after Emma and the dogs go to bed I pull it out to work on it.

I am making progress.

Please remind me that on the next quilt, the stitching does not need to be quite so close together. It would help in getting it done in a decent time frame. :)

Creative Inspiration

2012-01-13T17:07:00.000-07:00

I needed to be inspired to get back into the groove of doing some projects & being creative.

So, I went through and here are just a few pictures of what I finished in 2011.

I've got a long list of things I'd like to make this year so hopefully this inspires me.

Maybe it will inspire you to.

Working Girl

2012-01-13T09:51:00.000-07:00

Emma is my little helper.

She loves helping with laundry, unloading the dishwasher & sweeping.

What does your two year old love to do?

I can only hope that she still loves to help in ten years. :)

She loves spraying the vinegar/water mixture.

I tell her she can do that as often as she likes. My floors get so dirty here.

A Few Christmas Pictures

2011-12-27T22:16:00.001-07:00

We made almond joy balls the day before Christmas. My grandma used to make them and they are oh so yummy! Emma sat on the floor and worked on crushing the almonds. She had a great time doing it.

Notice her hat and headband? Yes, she has to have both of them on and wears them all day.

Emma's favorite spot is right next to James when he is home. If she isn't sitting with him in his chair she pulls him in her bedroom to play.

People are worried that I have forgotten about Lily and Daisy.

Have no fear.

They are still here & they still get very, very spoiled.

They both loved dressing up as reindeer. Well, Lily could have cared less but Daisy was a nervous wreck the whole time she had the costume on.

Daisy

Lily

Emma's new little bike. She loves the little basket in the back to put all her stuff in. I'm thinking I'll need to make one for the front so she can haul more stuff around.

My mom made her these awesome gloves. After she opened them, she wanted to open everything with them on. It was a bit challenging for her. :)

My sweetie and I.

A New Sewing Table

2011-12-27T11:36:00.000-07:00

Jame's project for the last month has been building me a sewing table.

Guess this means I have to sew...ha!

I posted lots of pictures so our families could check it out.

Eventually when I get a new sewing machine, he will put a lift in it.

It also has a special spot for a serger.

I'm excited to get it all set up so I can get going on projects.

He did a great job.

Merry Christmas

2011-12-24T21:28:00.000-07:00

Merry Christmas!

James, Theresa & Emma

Emma and the Chickens Next Door

2011-12-20T11:51:00.000-07:00

Emma and I walked up to the neighbor's house this morning to take care of their chickens. It was her first time around them. She was a little hesitant at first but then walked right in. I think she is going to love helping me take care of them when they are gone. Maybe someday we'll have to get Emma chickens to take care of but for now I think it's great we can help out next door. :)

My Little Helper

2011-12-14T11:33:00.000-07:00

Emma is loving the new mop that James made her.

She doesn't know this...but she is being trained to help me clean. :)

I'm going to have to crochet more mop tops for her because she sure is picking up a lot of dirt. What does that say about my cleaning?

Good thing I've got her to help me now. :)

Emma Luvs to Finger Paint

2011-12-10T21:15:00.000-07:00

Emma loves playing with the finger paints I made her a few days ago.

It is fairly easy to clean up. Since they are stored in the fridge, I do warm them up for about ten seconds so they aren't so cold for her.

I haven't given her any paper yet. She loves to just play with it on the tray. Each time I try to give her some different tools to play with. She sure is happy to play with it.

Storage Space

2011-12-10T10:20:00.001-07:00

Remember the hole in my wall?

It now looks like this.

Isn't it lovely? I LOVE this time of year when James is home more often and he is around and can do little things for me like this. :) It makes my heart melt....awe!!!

He added some shelves in the back of the closet that is underneath. I love more space for stuff.

Finger Paints

2011-12-07T19:42:00.000-07:00

Finger Paints

1 envelope unflavored gelatin

1/2 cup cornstarch

3 tablespoons sugar

2 cups cold water

food coloring

dishwashing liquid

Soak gelatin in 1/4 cup of warm water and put aside. In medium saucepan combine cornstarch and sugar. Gradually add water and cook slowly over low heat, stirring constantly until well blended. Remove from heat and add gelatin. Divide mixture into separate container for each color. For each color first add a drop or two of detergent and then add the food coloring a drop at a time until you have the shade desired. Refrigerate up to six weeks.

What We Have Been Up To....:)

2011-12-07T12:06:00.000-07:00

I came up with a great idea for extra storage and James is making it happen.

He is good like that.

Sometimes I come up with crazy ideas & he has to bring me back down to earth.

So.....here is the hole in my wall for extra storage that he has been working on.

Emma loves playing with corn syrup and food coloring. Yes, it makes a little mess but it's pretty easy to clean up. :)

Emma loves being hung upside down. We think her hair would make a good mop. What do you think? ha!

Simple Christmas Ideas

2011-11-25T09:48:00.000-07:00

Here is the link to the lotion and body butter I make.
They would make great Christmas gifts to give to friends or take to a party for a "hostess" gift.

You'll find the links to everything you need under this post. :)
http://aunttheresasadventures.blogspot.com/search/label/body%20butter

Gotcha Day on Thanksgiving

2011-11-24T21:47:00.000-07:00

It was two years ago today that our sweet Emma was put in our arms and became part of our family. We waited and prayed a long time for her. It was the sweetest day of our lives. What a wonderful day to celebrate & quite fitting that it falls on Thanksgiving this year.

Here are some pictures of how much our sweet Emma has grown.

Enjoy!

November 2011 So Far

2011-11-21T10:39:00.000-07:00

It has been pretty busy around here. James was so thoughtful and took Emma and I out of town for a night this week to do some shopping. It is rare for us to head out and stay in a hotel for a night. James works a lot and I just love being home. Plus, I don't like being around a lot of people or traffic.

This was our sweethearts only nap during our little trip. Just like her mama, she is always afraid she is going to miss something exciting.

She managed really well except for getting sick once in the car.

Emma and James enjoying their "down" time in the hotel.

Emma loves her morning coffee. No, it wasn't really coffee. She prefers juice. :)

I've decided that worrying about traffic when traveling around here is quite silly as you can see from the picture.

Lily & Daisy are always so glad when we get home. They love lots of snuggles.

I have been working on numerous project. This is my first sewing project. It was simple and easy and I only had to rip out the neck a few times before I finally figured it out. :)

I'm working on painting my little trees with milk paint for my gnome village.

Of course I always have some crocheting going on. A sweet pillow I made for my niece. I think she'll love it.

Hot Dogs and Ketchup

2011-10-31T19:19:00.000-06:00

A Blue Kind of Day

2011-10-17T10:12:00.000-06:00

Saturday we had a somewhat blue kind of day.

Emma loves creepy slime. You can find directions here.

It's so easy to make & lots of fun.

Loving This Blue

2011-10-09T12:16:00.000-06:00

I love this color blue for a little baby boy afghan and hat that I made.

It's just so soft.

Hopefully it will keep a sweet little boy nice and cozy over the winter.

A Story for Sarah

2011-10-07T00:03:00.001-06:00

During the summer, Sarah, over at www.steepedbysarah.blogspot.com, got married. I was asked to write a little story for her bridal shower. I was so thrilled and honored to be asked by her lovely sister-in-law, Elly. Sarah and I have corresponded through letters for years. Writing her has been my therapy. I've written her about my struggles, joys and life away from my family. This is the story I wrote for her. When this was read at her shower, only a few people knew I wrote it. I don't like to share my writing but I think she would love to just read it again....so, here it goes.

Once upon a time there was a Raggedy Ann girl that lived in a Barbie world. She was a fair maiden, daughter to Ed and Ramona and sister to Jacob and Matthew. Her name was Sarah. She loved wearing dresses and skirts and always had her toes painted in such pretty colors. Her hair was always adorned with lovely flowers that she so delicately made with beautiful silk fabric in pinks and purples. In the winter, she would wear beautiful hats that she would crochet out of the most marvelous colors.

Sarah had two handsome nephews and an adorable niece she took great delight in. She was always sewing blankets for them to keep them nice and cozy. She also took great delight in children around her. She spent countless hours with the neighbor children, Miranda and Noah, and loved them like her own. They loved to camp, bake, play games and craft together. They especially loved the special smoothies she would make just for them. They helped her take care of her two dogs and bunnies. It was a special time for them all.

She had many friends and gave much love to all of their little ones. She traveled near and far to visit them. Sarah helped care for her friends when they were sick or in need. She was there for the delivery of a baby of a special friend. She would watch their babies, cook for them and spent a lot of time helping them clean their homes so that they could spend time with their little ones and get some rest. Many of her hours were spent scrubbing and scrubbing out baby bottles and she would dream of the day she would have her own bottles to scrub. She took comfort in the people around her.

She longed for the day when she would have her own little family.

For years Sarah prayed for her prince charming. Now, one evening, she stumbled onto a picture of a handsome gentleman and his seven children. He (Matt) referred to these seven children as his "blessings". She was impressed by the love he seemed to have for them. She was intrigued and started to write him. The thought of seven children around her apron throughout the day made her absolutely giddy and delighted. Could he be the one? Were these little ones the ones she had waited for all these years?

Sarah met Matt and his seven blessings and the sparks flew. She and Matt became betrothed and his seven blessings are now her seven blessings. She became stepmom to Christina, Amy, Madison, John, Abigal, Matthew and Josiah and they welcomed her as queen bee. She was so happy to be surrounded by them.

Sarah was really not a Raggedy Ann after all....instead she was Cinderella.

....to be continued...

Crochet Pillow

2011-10-05T17:36:00.000-06:00

I'm loving this pillow that I just finished.

I just want to curl up with a good book and a cup of tea and rest my head on it.

Where's Emma?

2011-10-02T16:47:00.001-06:00

Sometimes it will suddenly get very quiet in the kitchen...

and then someone peeks her head out of the cupboard.

This is her special spot.

It's where she can play without her mom or dogs bothering her.

It's where she can get a few moments of "alone" time.

And...occasionally she'll pop her head to tell me something important.

Weekend Project

2011-09-25T20:30:00.000-06:00

My little weekend project was a baby afghan and sweet little hat.

There is nothing sweeter than a little baby girl!

Farewell Summer 2011

2011-09-23T09:09:00.000-06:00

It is time to say farewell to summer! We are sad to leave the great memories behind but look forward to making new ones.
Over the summer we did a lot of driving, threw a birthday bash for the kids in the family, visited lots of family and were blessed to see a dear friend get married.

We threw a big birthday bash at the lake.

Our awesome party buckets we put together.

The hats and bunting I made for our rainbow party.

The kids had a blast!

Emma spent a lot of time swinging and doing a bit of dress up.

She loved the splash pad at the lake.

Our special friend, Sarah got married and Emma and I were honored to be in her wedding.

Sarah and Matthew with their seven lovely children.

We spent a lot of time at grandma and grandpa's house.

Emma is trying on a sweater that grandma made for her. It is beautiful!

Sweet Emma turned two and had a special party to celebrate.

We spent a lot of time snuggling and kissing. :)

Emma loved heading out to grandpa's field to play and run around.

Emma playing her her new sand box that James built. She is loving it.

Finished Party Hats

2011-07-09T20:58:00.000-06:00

I finally finished the party hats!

I made 14 total and they were so fun to make.

Once again, Emma was happy to model a few of them. :)

I think they will go perfectly with the rainbow bunting I made a couple weeks ago.

What is your favorite color?

A Happy 4th

2011-07-04T19:31:00.000-06:00

Flower Garland

2011-07-01T10:43:00.000-06:00

I am in love with this flower garland. I think it is my favorite so far of all the garland I've made. So quick, simple and cute, cute, cute!

Did I mention they are just so cute!

My basket of finished garland.

For instructions go here.

James & Emma

2011-06-29T13:20:00.000-06:00

Only a daddy would put a hat on for his little girl and follow her around.

Every time James comes home, Emma takes him by the hand and leads him around. Sometimes I have the hats out and she insists he puts it on.

I'm pretty sure he wouldn't wear a "girly" hat for me. :)

Crochet Bunting

2011-06-24T12:03:00.000-06:00

Sweet bunting to go with the party hats I've been making.

There are tons of tutorials out there for crochet bunting.

This is one of my favorites...here.

What Makes Me Smile

2011-06-21T11:37:00.000-06:00

These things warm up my heart!

I finally bought Ree Drummond's cookbook! I'm loving it!

If you haven't checked out her blog check it out here.

You'll find the recipe for these wonderful cinnamon rolls in her cookbook! They really are the best I've ever had. It was hard to stop eating them. I will NOT be making these every week. I would gain 100 pounds if I did.

I was so lucky to come across this Cath Kidston mug at Barnes & Nobles.

You can look at her items here.

Drinking my tea from this lovely mug makes me feel special.

Emma and I have been listening to this 3 CD collection of Doris Day every morning.

We love to sing and dance along to the lovely voice of Doris.

Marlo Thomas plays Ann Marie in That Girl. She is giddy, funny, sweet and gets into little pickles just like Lucy Ricardo. I love her best friend and next door neighbor, Judy, who is beautiful and just as funny! I've watched the 30 some episodes of season one through probably thirty times. I think it's time to purchase season two. If you want to laugh, watch it! It's great!

I'm loving this afghan I'm making with stripes. It's just so cute. I work on it when I get a spare moment which isn't very often. It's slowly getting larger. Bright, colorful stripes are so cheerful don't ya think?

I'm loving my sweet dogs! They give me lots of snuggles and are just so sweet! Emma and I adore them.

Of course, what makes me most giddy is our sweet Emma! She is such a blessing!

My Girl That Loves the Sun

2011-06-06T21:37:00.000-06:00

Emma loves, loves playing outside.

She never wants to come in...not even to eat.

She just loves it out there.

I tell her that her mama doesn't do the sun as well as she does.

I'm going to find a big beach umbrella for me to sit under out there!

My Garden

2011-06-04T21:19:00.000-06:00

When we moved to our current home, I had this brilliant idea that I was going to start a garden.

I really don't know anything about gardening.

Not only that, but I do not like the feel of dirt on my hands or in my fingernails.

I do not like bugs and I particularly do not like spiders. Have I mentioned the ugly, ugly, huge, hairy spiders we have here? They are ugly! Oh wait, I already said that...but they really, really are!

So why did I start a garden? I had read all of Gene Stratton-Porter novels and became inspired. I don't live in the Limberlost but I could embrace nature here. Maybe I would make my own teas, use some herbs for healing purposes and I would can! I was going to fill my pantry up with wonderful salsa and whatever else I could come up with.

Now.....after all my dreaming, lets laugh!

My first step was to figure out where to even begin. I bought this book and it is by far the best book I have found. It gives simple, step by step instructions on square foot gardening. James built me some boxes and we filled it with Mel's mix. He tells you the ingredients you need and how much.

That sounds simple.

Next was planting. Hey, no problem. He tells you everything you need to know and how many square feet per plant. It's easy, simple and quick. With his system there really isn't much need for watering or weeding. That sounded perfect for me.

It all sounded perfect I tell you.

Until.... I realized I don't think that Mr. Bartholomew ever tried to garden in the area I live.

Of course when the hubs and I decided to move we had to pick an area that was next to impossible to grow anything.

This was my sad, sad garden at the end of last year. It was taken over by weeds.

Having it in my yard actually depressed me. I was at a loss. I didn't know what to do.

This is my garden a couple weeks ago..I'm so proud.

It's not perfect but it's getting so much better.

Here is a picture I took today. I'm hoping everything grows for me.

What I did....

1. I'm not for putting chemicals on my lawn but I finally faced the fact that it was going to take something strong. Earlier in April I went out and put my first coat of Roundup all over the white rocks. I did this again in May. I'm probably just going to have to suck it up and do this every year. As they started to die, it became easier for me to pull and clean up the weeds. By the way, most these weeds are impossible to pull. They are so strong!

2. My next step was to put organic preen down all over the rocks and in the raised beds. This is suppose to help prevent new weeds. Hopefully it will help a little but I do see quite a few new weeds coming through so I'll just have to keep pulling. This is suppose to be done every 4-6 weeks.

3. After I got things planted, I added mulch on top. Mulch is suppose to help keep moisture in which we need here since we live in a dry climate.

4. As Jame's aunt says, "accept imperfection." My garden area will never be perfect but hopefully I can get some things to grow.

Thanks to Jame's aunt for all the tips and advice. I've basically followed her instructions. :) So far I think it's looking great. Maybe I have a little farm girl in me after all!

Edible Play Dough

2011-05-31T11:15:00.000-06:00

Edible Play Dough

1 Cup Peanut Butter

1 Cup nonfat dry milk

2/3 Cup powdered sugar

1 Cup loose coconut (optional)

Place peanut butter in a bowl and work in dry milk with fingers. Add powdered sugar and coconut and work in with fingers. the texture should be like play dough. If it's too dry, add peanut butter. If it's too sticky, add dry milk. This can keep well in a plastic bag for a week.

I cut this recipe in half for Emma.

Party Hats - Sneak Peak

2011-05-24T10:27:00.000-06:00

I have been working on crocheting some party hats for a summer birthday bash.

Here is a sneak peak at them for the family. :)

Because they aren't finished, it is hard to get good pictures yet but hopefully you get the idea.

You can find the instructions here.

Building of Our Gnome Forest

2011-05-22T17:47:00.000-06:00

My sister painted these cute little mushrooms for me!

I'm just loving them.

She started something! We are looking forward to adding things to them to make a gnome forest.

James cut out some trees for me to paint.

Of course I had him cut out some for my sister also.

We are in the process of ordering milk paint, felt, wooden pegs and thread to make other fun items for it.

It is going to be so cute!

Our soon to be apple orchard.

Thanks to my sister for sharing this blog

with me!

Individual trees to scatter about the forest.

Laminated Cards

2011-05-21T21:06:00.001-06:00

My sister made up these awesome laminated cards for me when her oldest was a little one. Her oldest is now in drivers training so it was a few years back. :)

I have been carrying them around for years waiting to put them to good use.

I dug them out yesterday and found the recipe for the creepy slime.

What a neat idea to type your recipes out, laminate them and put them on a metal ring.

Some of the recipes include silly puddy, different games to play, charcoal rock garden, bubbles and granola.

All great ideas for little ones and what a great way to keep them handy so you have the recipes on hand.

Creepy Slime

2011-05-20T19:08:00.001-06:00

I made some creepy slime for Emma today.

She loved playing with it.

1 Cup cornstarch

1/2 Cup cold water

food coloring

Mix in a bowl. Put your hand in and it slowly creeps. Pound it on the table and it is solid.

Oh So Busy

2011-05-15T09:07:00.000-06:00

We have been oh so very busy these days.

A bit of traveling, visiting with friends and family, spring cleaning, organizing and crafting has just made me to busy to blog much.

Here are some photos to hold you over until my next post.

Headband #2

2011-04-04T10:20:00.000-06:00

I love this headband that can be used as an ear warmer also.

It's just darling and really easy to crochet & quite a bit different from the other style I made.

My model is slowly starting to feel like herself again after a weekend of being ill.

Tissue Paper Flowers

2011-03-25T11:02:00.000-06:00

These delicate flowers just yell spring.

I love making them and think they are just so pretty.

You can find directions here.

Our Upside Down Girl

2011-03-24T22:03:00.000-06:00

It seems that lately sweet Emma would like to just spend most of her time upside down.

Or twirling...she loves to twirl to. I'm not sure how she doesn't get sick but she doesn't.

The Cutest Headband

2011-03-23T19:59:00.000-06:00

I'm always looking for fabulous things I can crochet.

I love this headband. This is the first one I have made and it goes pretty fast.

The flower and ribbon are applied with hot glue. I have never worked with a hot glue gun before and I can say that I'll need a bit of practice with that.

It would look lovely with two or three flowers or hearts and maybe a button!

The possibilities are endless!

Lovliness

2011-03-21T23:21:00.000-06:00

We got another sweet package in the mail last week from my sister and her family.

I just love how pretty things always look when I open up the boxes that I receive.

It was such a nice surprise.

My sweet niece bought Emma a special present. Emma is getting pretty good at opening!

Wasn't it so thoughtful of my niece. I just love that girl!

Emma wearing her new t-shirt. She loves it. Thank you!!

I helped a my friend with a baby shower on Saturday. She does most of the work doing the hosting and keeping things going. I just like to do "behind of scenes" sort of things.

I made these little tissue flowers and put them around the bottom of these little champagne glasses. I had to take a picture for my mom and dad. These glasses were stored at my folk's house in a cupboard for years! When I was little I would get them out and put water in them. Then I would place a red candy in them to make the water turn red and taste sweet. I thought they were pretty nifty. I asked my dad if I could have them a few years back and he dug them all out for me. I had to show them that I was using them.

Here is my grandmother's china. I have to make sure they know I'm using that to whenever I have the opportunity.

Here are some pictures of sweet Emma for all my sweet ones back home. Love you all!

Ordinary Days

2011-03-14T23:16:00.000-06:00

With all the things that go on in the world I'm just so thankful to know that God is in control. I'm thankful that He has given me a cozy little house, food and a lovely little family. I'm also thankful to know that if those things are ever taken, He is still in control.

Our ordinary days are pretty extraordinary. At least I think so. :)

Emma loves bowls and spoons right now. She sure is learning how to stir pretty well. We have decided to splurge and buy her a little kitchen and shopping cart. She loves playing with them in the nursery at church. We spend a majority of our time in the kitchen so I think she'll love it.

We've been doing a little bit of painting.

Sweet Lily.

Lily got sick of me taking pictures of her so she finally curled up in the corner of the couch and hid her face from me. Smart girl!

Every once in a while Emma will look at me now when I take a picture. :)

Art for Emma's Room

2011-03-10T14:19:00.000-07:00

I finally decided on some art to hang in Emma's room. My sister ordered a couple of prints last summer and I thought they were just darling.

Here are the prints I decided on...it was a hard decision. I would love them all!

You can find these and several other adorable Sarah Jane prints here.

Crocheting Granny Squares Together

2011-03-07T15:54:00.000-07:00

Crocheting my granny squares together makes me so skippy happy. I'm in love with all the colors!

Now if I can just keep my dogs from running over them before I get them together. :) They always manage to break through the gate and get to them...sneaky, sneaky dogs! ha!

Catching Up

2011-03-05T15:10:00.001-07:00

Here are some projects that have been keeping me to busy to blog. :)

I have been crocheting lovely little granny squares to make a cute afghan for my living area. I've noticed that a lot of the blankets I have around are just plain ugly. I don't need to have ugly blankets when I can make such cute ones.

Okay, I have to keep the so called ugly ones around because they sure do keep me warm in the winter.

I have made a couple more hats. I sent this one out to my niece last week. The style is a bit different but hopefully she'll like it.

We got two awesome packages from special friends in the mail last month around Valentines Day. They were packed with hand made goodies from sweet girls, chocolates, candy, note cards, socks, pajamas and a cute little outfit for Emma. We were thrilled...especially with the chocolates and candy! Yummy!

Emma had her 18 month check up last week. She weighs just over 21 pounds and is my little sweetheart. She sat politely on my lap during the appointment. She is very serious when we are out and about trying to take everything in.

Daybook....Week 5

2011-02-04T17:58:00.000-07:00

Outside...much warmer today than earlier in the week but a bit cloudy today.

In the kitchen...I haven't been in the kitchen at all today. Tonight we are having leftover mac and cheese with chicken in it that I made yesterday. I made a huge batch of it so it should last us a couple days.

Around the house...I am watching a movie and Emma is playing. The dogs are both zonked out next to me.

Today....we went shopping to get groceries and other items that were on the list. We went to five different places including the library. We got lots of food so that if I didn't want to have to leave the house for another two weeks I don't have to. We also stopped at the jewelry store to buy some cleaner for my rings that were looking pretty yucky.

Picture to share...

My wonderful yarn order that came last week. I'm doing something wonderful with them and love it so far!

A Cold Week So Far....

2011-02-01T12:11:00.000-07:00

We are able to stay busy at home when we are unable to venture out because it is to cold out! I prefer staying home anyways. :)

Boy, has it been way to cold to go anyplace! Below zero....that's to cold even bundled up!

Although James did inform me last night that he prefers this cold to the heat we get in the summer. I do take into consideration though that he is a man and let's face it, most men are kind of different. ha!

We've done plenty of playing this week.

Emma enjoys cuddling with her doll.

I built her a little fort and she loved playing in it.

I got out an empty box that she loves to climb on and in.

She loves walking around with blankets wrapped around her head.

Lily and Daisy have wanted some serious snuggles this week to stay warm to.

Hearts For My Sweethearts

2011-01-29T12:28:00.000-07:00

Remember how I've been making hearts for the past month or so? Well, I finally have them all finished. I've been putting them in this little basket as I finish them.

I just think they look so pretty. Now to get them ready to ship out next week to all my little darling friends.

You can see how I put lovely little beads around the edge as I sewed them together...these are those little beads I kept dumping on the floor the other day. I'll be glad to take a break from beads for a while. :)

I made this blue & gold heart for my niece who loves ... University of Michigan.

Daybook....Week 4

2011-01-28T07:45:00.000-07:00

Outside....warmer and in the 40's or 50's today. I've noticed this week that it is getting lighter earlier. I love it when the days start to get longer and the sun brightens the house in the early, early morning.

In the kitchen...No baking or cooking today. On Wednesday I made meatballs, mashed potatoes and soup. We'll have leftovers through the weekend. I may make some rice for James to go with his meatballs since he is not a fan of mashed potatoes.

What I have learned....not to set a jar of beads on my lap. Last night I got up with the jar of beads on my lap and they went all over the floor. I forgot they were there! After I got them cleaned up I put them on the couch next to me and not two minutes later, forgot they were there, and knocked them on the floor again! Yikes! What a mess. At this point all I could do was laugh at myself.

Around the house....it is still pretty quiet here. Emma is still sleeping and I'm sipping on coffee. I'm sure she'll be up soon and hungry. She is not happy in the morning until she gets some food in her and then she is ready to play.

I'm thankful.....that my order from Hobby Lobby came yesterday so I can finish up my hearts and get them shipped out on Monday. I also loved opening the big box of yarn I ordered. I just love yarn!

What I am working on....this week I have been finishing up hearts, quilting and have made a hat.

Our busy week....It wasn't to bad. On Monday James took Emma and I a couple hours north here to the social security office. We went out to lunch to a pizza and pasta place and then headed to the candy store. I couldn't stop talking about the candy store all through lunch. I was so excited. Yesterday Emma and I delivered a couple of meals and did a little visiting. We were ready for naps when we got home.

Plans for today....I will probably head to the store during nap time to get some milk and a few other items, do some crafting and crocheting.

A Picture to Share....My three sweethearts snuggled up on the couch. We all love to snuggle!

Homemade Deodorant

2011-01-25T18:20:00.001-07:00

Today I made my first batch of homemade deodorant. It was so simple and quick.

Here is the recipe I used today. I used this particular recipe because it has the least amount of ingredients of recipes I found. I like to start out with simple recipes and then experiment a bit more once I know what I'm doing and if I like it.

http://www.passionatehomemaking.com/2010/02/homemade-all-natural-deodorant.html

Here is another recipe that I will try later. I've heard this works really well to!

http://asonomagarden.wordpress.com/2009/07/28/how-to-make-homemade-deodorant-i-love-it/

Update - Tonight I tested the deodorant. I perspire quite a bit when I walk on my treadmill and I've noticed how bad I smell when I get off. I applied this tonight before walking and it works! I don't stink! Who knew something so natural and so good for you could work so well!

I purchase all my products except for the coconut oil from Mountain Rose Herbs.

Camo Stocking Hats

2011-01-24T21:53:00.000-07:00

I finished three camouflage stocking hats this weekend for three sweet boys.

I shouldn't call them sweet...I should call them tough and strong! They would say, "that's more like it Aunt Theresa!"

My three models would not sit still enough for me today to get all three together and it was hard enough to get Emma to sit still. :)

Why I Love Winter

2011-01-22T19:43:00.000-07:00

There is one reason why I really do love, love winter!

James actually slows down just enough to finish some projects that I would like done.

This is my new kitchen island he brought in right around Christmas time . He had been working on it in his spare time since last March but finally decided to just get it finished in December. I'm glad to because it was getting kind of dusty out in his garage and I was getting tired of waiting and waiting for it. I think he did a great job and I just love how it looks in my kitchen.

I told him I wanted some shelves in Emma's room to put her special animals, books and pretty things on. He got these put up earlier in the week around the same time he finished the ceiling. Yes, mom and dad, my ceiling is no longer hanging down. ha!

I'm very excited because I received my large order from Mountain Rose Herbs. I can't wait to show you how to make two new things I'll be adding in my routine: homemade deodorant and lip gloss. I love my hand lotion and body butter that I've been making. It's all I ever use now and it feels good knowing I'm using healthy, all natural and even edible ingredients on my skin. I never have to worry about rubbing my body butter on Emma's dry fingers as she sticks them right back into her mouth. Having avocado oil in it, I know it's good for her no matter where it goes.

Today with the weather what it has been, it has been a good day for Emma and I to stay in. We were gone two days in a row and she was pretty tired today. This morning she didn't wake up until after ten. I had the door open and was doing things in the kitchen and I didn't think my sweet girl was ever going to wake up. I guess not having naps the past two days caught up to her.

I had plenty of time to do some crocheting before she woke up.

Emma and I stayed in our pajamas all day today.

Daybook...Week Three

2011-01-19T13:11:00.001-07:00

Outside....Sunny with snow. I'm glad the sun is out today because it has been a bit gloomy this week and I have been feeling quite sluggish. In the 30's which is a heatwave!

In the kitchen....no bake cookies. I love this recipe my sister gave me. They have peanut butter and lots of sugar in them.

What I have learned....natural peanut butter does not work for some recipes. I made granola bars last week with natural and had to throw them out. They did not taste good at all!

Around the house.....James has a couple days off so he is home working on a project. Emma is enjoying standing and watching him chit chatting away. The dishwasher is running & the washer is going.

What I'm drinking....decaf green tea with a tablespoon of coconut oil. Coconut oil is suppose to boost your metabolism and mine sure could use a good boost. ha!

I'm thankful......that James was home yesterday working around the house. I wasn't feeling all to well and it was good to have him here to help a little. He also had time to head to the store and get me ice cream...mint chocolate chip of course! I was able to move but it was very slowly. I'm thankful for a little girl that plays well during those times to. :)

What I am making...hearts and more hearts. I can't wait to show a picture of all I have done when they are all finished.

Plans for the rest of the week.....We're going to head to MOPS tomorrow and do some visiting the rest of the week.

On My Mind....Practicing forgiveness. How many of us like to do this? I certainly don't but once again my devotional book has challenged me. We are suppose to bless and forgive those that are mean to us or speak unkindly to us. I don't know about you but I just really don't "feel" like it sometimes. According to scripture, it does not matter how we feel though. We are suppose to do it by faith and be obedient. We are to get down on our knees and pray for those who have offended us and keep praying until we feel no more anger. We are suppose to ask blessings upon those.

"Bless them that curse you." (Matthew 5:44)

"When He was insulted, He did not answer back with an insult; when he suffered, He did not threaten, but placed His hopes in God." (1 Peter 2:21-23)

A picture to share.....My parents will be so happy to see this. ha! We've had a little ceiling issue for about three years now. I've been calling my contractor bugging him about it when he is doing other jobs. He is finally getting to this job! I'm so thrilled...not thrilled about the mess in the house but that's what vacuums are for. :) I'm also happy my hubby (the contractor) gets to spend some time with us. I like him being around even if he is working on a project.

Heart Ornament

2011-01-14T17:59:00.000-07:00

We are starting to love mornings around here. Emma and I always love working in the kitchen and working on projects in the morning.

This morning I got my delightful cup of coffee and started working on a heart decoration. You remember the hearts? This is the same pattern. I sewed two of them together. I wanted to use some beads I had and this was the result.

Emma sits and does some lacing while I work on my projects at the table next to her. We have a great time.

It has finally warmed up a little here. We ventured out with James and ran a few errands today and ran through Arby's for lunch. You can't go wrong with a sandwich and curly fries from Arbys! I'm sure it's not the most healthy meal we've had this week but it sure was yummy.

Daybook....Week Two

2011-01-12T10:38:00.000-07:00

Outside...This week it has been very, very frigid. I text my mom, who lives in the south where it's warmer, that it's frigid but at least the sun is out. The sun makes all the difference for me even with it being so cold.

I'm thankful for.... heat! I've gone out one time this week and have ran to the car in order to get out of the cold! The roads were slippery when I ventured out so I also prayed that if I ended up in a ditch to let it be close to a nice, cozy, warm home. ha! Heat! Yes, I'm thankful for heat.

In the kitchen....chocolate chip cookies. I started a double batch yesterday that I need to finish baking today. I like to make enough to put in the freezer. James takes them in his lunch so he goes through them quickly.

What we are listening to....Disney's Children's Favorites Record. The other day I got out my record player and a couple records that I used to listen to when I was little. I'm thankful they only skip a couple of times. Emma enjoys listening to this record and dancing to it and I've been singing the songs to her. I love "The Hokey Pokey."

What I'm making....today I am making body butter. Tomorrow will be laundry detergent. I always seem to run out of things at the same time.

What I'm drinking.....coffee with a new kind of creamer I thought I would try...white chocolate caramel latte. It's pretty yummy!

This morning Emma has.....danced, colored, laced and trace with her shapes and had some oatmeal.

On my mind...this week I have been trying something new that I read in my devotional book...not to think about finishing something because then you feel overwhelmed. Just start a project and eventually you'll get it done. So, this week instead of feeling overwhelmed thinking about what I would like to finish I have been just starting them. It's actually helped me accomplish quite a bit.

Around the house....the kitchen is clean, Daisy and Lily are barking and Emma is playing quietly.

A picture to share...

Crochet Hearts

2011-01-11T12:33:00.000-07:00

Here is the pattern for the crochet hearts I have been making.

http://www.skiptomylou.org/2009/01/28/crochet-heart-garland/

I have put together quite a few for garland. I'm also making smaller hearts with soft yarn to sew on hair barrettes. I think the possibilities for these hearts are endless!

Cozy Weekend

2011-01-09T22:51:00.000-07:00

It was to cold out for us to venture out to much this weekend so we stayed in our cozy little home.

What to do?

Perhaps, a little baking.....

crocheting sweet hearts...

crocheting some special items for some sweet boys out of camouflage yarn...

helping Emma write some love letters...

and more letters....

and of course, doing some serious playing.

Finding The Balance

2011-01-07T23:08:00.001-07:00

     I don't know about anyone else but when I start something new sometimes I get going and eventually after a month or so it "fizzles" away. It was to hard or to much work. I've been reading nutrition books on Endometriosis and many things I know but I'm learning lots of new things from them to.   To change everything I eat would be a lot of work especially since the list of things I shouldn't be having is very long. Some of the things I'm not suppose to have such as coffee and chocolate...well, those are two of my favorite things.
     I'm all about moderation as long as it is not making me ill. I know when I've had to much coffee or soda. The affects of it can cause me a lot of pain which is why I'm careful not to have say, three cups of coffee a day.    I've decided since reading through so many books and trying to educate myself on ways that I can feel even better and have more energy this year, I would work on my nutrition. I sure could use some more energy which is something I've lacked from having this disease throughout my life. Notice how I say "nutrition" and not "diet". I prefer to think of this not as a diet because quite frankly, that implies that I'm trying to lose weight and who needs that pressure.
    The past two weeks I have added decaf green tea into my diet. I also add about a tablespoon of coconut oil in the first cup I drink.   Both are very beneficial for women with endo. The coconut oil also helps with food cravings which is an added benefit! I'm hoping that eventually I will crave and love the decaf green tea so much that I can phase out the cup of coffee I love waking up to in the morning.
   So, what have I learned while adding these two things into my daily routine? First, not to drink three cups of tea in the evening otherwise I will be up a lot during the night running to the bathroom. ha! Sometimes I tend to go overboard and have to remind myself about moderation.   Second, is to just add one or two things at a time so that I don't feel overwhelmed.   This way, it will become a lifestyle habit and not a chore.    I don't need to add anymore chores to my "to do" list! ha!

Sweet Emma playing with a toy that I played with when I was little. I sure am glad my mom and dad saved some of our toys. She just loves this so much!

Torn Sheets

2011-01-06T13:52:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I washed sheets. Exciting, I know! I always wait for James to get home to help me put the sheets back on the bed. Maybe it's laziness or maybe it's just because it goes faster when two people put them back on...whatever it is, I always wait.
I have two sets of sheets, both of which were given to me. My sister gave me a lovely flannel set and my mom gave me another lovely cotton set. I won't tell you how many years ago they gave them to me. Let me just say that I have never bought a set of sheets. I must also tell you that they gave them to me because they had bought new sheets for themselves...so they are true and used hand-me-downs.

Last night James was helping me put the fitted sheet on when he noticed a huge rip that made a huge hole right in the middle. We both laughed! I have no idea how the sheet got such a big hole in it. I can tell my mom that her sheets got good use! I pulled out the flannel sheets that my sister gave me out of the cupboard and decided we'd just use that set instead. We got the bottom sheet put on and when James was helping me spread the top one on what did he see? It was another big hole!

This is finally when James stopped and looked at me and said, "don't you think we can afford some new sheets?" This is where my brilliant idea came in. I told him that we would just use the good bottom one and good top one. After we got the bed made I even came out to the computer to look at sheets on Amazon. I was going to buy a pair. Oh, wouldn't my mom be proud! I have issues when it comes to money. I'm a saver for the most part and lets face it, sheets are not the most exciting thing to buy. I couldn't decide what kind of sheets I wanted. Who knew there were so many decisions when buying them. So I turned off my computer and went to bed. I crawled in my cozy bed and decided I didn't need to buy sheets because my two mismatched ones were just perfect.

So mom, if you are reading this make sure you and dad buy a new set of sheets by the next time I come home. I may need some new hand-me-downs. ha!

Now onto my next dilemma. Do I keep the torn sheets and use the material for something or do I throw them away? Whatever I decide, I know I won't wait around to ask the hubby because he likes to keep everything.

Update on Christmas tree lights - I went to Wal-mart looking for what James told me I needed not knowing what that really was. They are still strung across my floor. I have decided to just put them in a separate box and hopefully if I remind him enough he will get what I need to work on them during the year before the next holiday season otherwise next year, I may just have to pitch them and buy new ones...hopefully James forgets I write this. ha!

Daybook...Week One

2011-01-04T11:11:00.000-07:00

Daybook...

I am thinking....Emma and I will head out to find what I need to fix these Christmas tree lights so I can get them packed up and off my floor. Maybe we'll head to the library and take some bread to a friend.

Around the house...Emma is drinking from her sippy cup, running around and chit chatting. Daisy and Lily are sitting on the couch curled up next to me.

One of my favorite things...is to wake up and have a cup of coffee with french vanilla creamer. I love french vanilla. I always look at the other creamers at the store but the french vanilla is the one that always ends up coming home with me.

I am thankful for....new friendships with girls who love to create like I do.

Outside my window...sunny but chilly. Some snow here and there.

What I'm creating....crochet heart garland.

I am going to...make cookies from a cake mix later today.

I am thankful for...a mom who finally learned how to text. Now we chat all the time.

A picture to share....Emma is practicing sitting still while I do her hair. Sometimes when she gets tired in the late mornings she likes to sit on my lap while I run a brush through her hair. This is a picture of some twists I put in her hair with a pony tail. It's not perfect but at least she is learning to be patient with me.

Unmotivated Start to the New Year

2011-01-03T22:29:00.000-07:00

I don't know about anyone else, but I had a hard time getting motivated today. Maybe it's because I've been in my pajamas for about two weeks. During that time I think I left the house maybe twice. That's right. I only left the house two times and it was so delightful. I'm really not one for venturing out during the holiday madness. Truth be told, maybe if I lived in a warmer climate I would venture out more, but my bones get so cold when the temperature drops below twenty degrees. Yikes!

I woke up this morning not knowing what I wanted to begin doing. Did I want to organize, sweep, dust, get rid of my recycling or take down some of my Christmas decorations?

I decided to tackle the tree. I knew it would take some time because I'm just not that motivated. I was happy when all my ornaments were put away nice and tidy like.

My next step was lights. Oh the lights. What a pain! Did I really have the energy to keep going? I grabbed my tea, took a big gulp and continued.

I pretend that it's a big energy drink. It's not really but I can pretend.

So now, what is stranded across my living room floor? Ten strands of lights. I had this brilliant idea. I was going to make sure that each and every strand worked before I put them away. Out of ten strands, eight need to be checked that have several lights out.

Being the good wife I am, I waited until James came home and asked his advice.

I knew what he was going to say. I could throw them away, pitch them, be rid of them and save myself the work of checking every stinking bulb.

But, hubby has a different idea.

That would be wasteful.

So tomorrow my lights will continue to be strung across my floor. At least I can put two strands away.

I will be the good wife and go through every one. Next time though, I may just have to pitch them before asking. :)

I sent a text to my mom the other day reminding her that Valentines Day was soon to be here.

Sometimes she sends us boxes of candy hearts. I want to make sure she sends Emma one for me.

That's right...just for me! I love candy and candy hearts are great because they aren't to hard and just right to chew on.

I tell James all the time that we should own a candy store.

Apparently he thinks that would be silly because we would never make a profit.

Why?

He seems to think I would eat the candy up!

Speaking of V Day coming up...this is a little something I've been working on.

Sweet, little crocheted Valentines Hearts...they are so cute! The possibilities for them are endless.

Emma love hanging out under the kitchen table these days.

It's like her little fort.

2010 Highlight...Watching Emma Grow

2010-12-31T16:42:00.001-07:00

The highlight of 2010 for us was watching our sweet Emma grow and grow.

She doesn't seem to be slowing down one bit but we are having a wonderful time watching her learn new things all the time.

God blessed us with a very special little girl.

She is sweet, gentle, funny and gives her mommy and daddy lots of snuggles.

Here are some pictures in order, from the beginning to the end of the year, for family and friends to see how big she has gotten.

Holiday Pictures

2010-12-29T12:01:00.000-07:00

If you don't like pictures just skip this post. In no particular order here are some pics of Emma during Christmas. It took about four days to get everything open. It took quite some time because she still opens pretty slowly. It took her about 40 minutes to open three gifts. At least we were able to spread it out a bit.

On Christmas Day James worked so Penny came over and kept us company. We watched movies and ate...I ate a lot of food! ha! Thanks for keeping us company Penny!

Emma wearing her pajamas that Grandma made & playing with her new puzzle.

The girl loves to run.

Emma chatted with Penny all day. When Penny's hubby got out of work he came over in the evening. Emma chatted their ears off the whole evening.

We hope you made some great Christmas memories like we did! :)

James and Emma's Time Together...Last Week

2010-12-27T09:48:00.000-07:00

James took Emma to Home Depot during the day.

He came home and brought her in the house with a ring pop in her mouth.

She was a sticky mess but seemed to be enjoying it.

I had to remind James that I love candy so the next time he should really bring me home one to.

I don't think I've ever even had a ring pop.

How sad.

My hands always seem to pick up Pop Rocks at the store if I buy candy. I love, love, love how they pop in my mouth & so tasty to.

If he is buying her candy now what is he going to get her in a couple years???

A Dairy Queen perhaps!

That would be AWESOME!!! I love ice cream...especially vanilla cones dipped in chocolate.

Emma and I could have ice cream every day!

After she was done getting sticky it was time for a bath.

After we got her cleaned up she and James had more fun.

She loves hanging upside down.

Merry Christmas

2010-12-24T12:32:00.000-07:00

Merry Christmas

James, Theresa & Emma

Lily & Daisy

Russian Tea Cakes

2010-12-23T15:35:00.000-07:00

My niece asked me to put a picture up of the cookies I made & I've included the recipe.

Cream until fluffy:

1 C butter

4 T sugar

Add:

2 C flour

2 tsp vanilla

1 C chopped pecans

2 tsp water

Roll into balls & bake 15 minutes at 350. Roll in powdered sugar while hot. Cool & then roll again.

The cookies were a big hit with Emma!

Christmas Week

2010-12-23T11:34:00.000-07:00

We have been baking this week although I did almost give up because I seemed to be burning everything at first. I thought some yummy roasted, sugar coated almonds would be good...until I burned a few of them. I've always had good luck at cinnamon rolls. Well, not this week. I was wondering why the timer kept going off when I thought I had taken them out of the oven. Then I realized ten minutes later they were still in the oven. ha! Yesterday I made Russian tea cakes and to my delight they turned out perfectly yummy!

Emma loves to color while I'm working in the kitchen.

I don't know about any of you but I have a hard time not going in and taking pictures of Emma when she is zonked out. Sometimes my flash wakes her up. ha! I also go in at night if I'm crocheting hats and try them on her and occasionally get her out to snuggle. I don't know if anyone else does this but I just have to. I know soon enough she'll be to big to snuggle and I want as many snuggles and moments that I can get.

Just in case you are worried...she goes back to sleep just fine and she gets plenty of rest.

Emma enjoys sitting with her dad.

These next two pictures are for my mom and dad. I think I used to make a lot of funny faces to.

It's Christmas time and one of my favorite things about Christmas is the special foods.

Two of my favorite delights during the season is peppermint mocha creamer and little Debbie Christmas trees.

Little Star

2010-12-14T12:31:00.000-07:00

This morning I was determined to crochet a little star.

They are so cute. Emma played nicely while I was able to get both sides crocheted and put together.

You can find the directions here...

http://attic24.typepad.com/weblog/bauble-decoration.html

Lucy has the most gorgeous things. It is one of my favorite blogs...ever!

Packages & Such

2010-12-12T01:27:00.000-07:00

We have been receiving packages from grandparents in the mail. Emma has been helping me put all the goodies under the tree. She loves walking around with one or two in her hand.

James took Emma and I shopping a couple hours away yesterday. It's really not the shopping I look forward to but the eating lunch out that excites me. We went to Ruby Tuesdays and it was so yummy! On our way home we had to drive through a snowstorm or blizzard. I'm not really sure what it was. It was kind of gross. I drove most the way and according to my husband, I drive like a granny. At least I got us most the way here and not in a ditch. ha!

Sometimes Emma tries to be so serious.

Update on our Exciting week so far....

2010-12-08T12:38:00.000-07:00

James has been working a lot the past few weeks. Emma and I have been taking it pretty easy playing at home, crocheting, baking and running to the post office here and there.

Yesterday we received two packages in the mail from my mom and dad. I can't tell you how excited I get! I know my mom puts lots of homemade things in there. I can't wait until Christmas to open them. James always makes me wait. There was one package though that had a special note that told me to open now. Thanks mom and dad! It was great not to have to wait to open every package. Emma helped me open it.

This morning I've been wondering if James would notice if I opened the gifts under the tree and wrapped them back up. That's what I used to do when I was younger. ha! I wonder where I get that from.

It is an awesome bag! It will be perfect for library and post office trips that we make.

I told Emma if she ever really needed glasses we were going to get big, round ones just like her grandma C used to wear in the 1970's. Wouldn't that just be to awesome! Maybe grandma would give us the frames so they could insert the right prescription for Emma.

I just think she is a hoot in these.

My turkey shutting her eyes on me while I try to take a picture. She thinks she is pretty smart...what she doesn't know is that I still just take the picture for all the world to see. ha! :)

Of course I've been staying busy with more crocheting projects. This is my little basket I keep everything I'm currently working on. Don't you just love that sweet pink color? Perfect yarn for baby hats.

Daisy and Lily seem a bit lost since Sarah left. This morning Daisy was sitting on my lap and Lily plopped down right one top of her. I'm pretty sure Daisy was able to stay cozy warm.

Pictures

2010-12-06T16:37:00.000-07:00

I just want to put up some funny pictures of Emma that I've taken the past couple weeks.

I know my nieces love looking at them.

Sarah made this adorable hat for Emma.

First French Braid

2010-12-01T20:07:00.000-07:00

Emma had her first french braid today.

I've always brushed and played with her hair so she did pretty well sitting there while I did it.

Thank goodness for all the practice I had on my Barbie dolls growing up and then my nieces. :)

A picture of her sweet little face just because.

A Purple Dress Turned Sweater...36 Years Later

2010-11-30T22:16:00.000-07:00

My grandmother made me this sweater when I was a baby.

I wore it as a dress. Emma is a little to big for it to be a dress but it is the perfect sweater size.

I love putting her in things that my grandma made for me.

I think it's pretty special my mom kept some treasures for me.

I wish I could make such pretty, complicated items like my grandma made. She was just so talented.

Our Thanksgiving

2010-11-29T13:55:00.000-07:00

We had a great Thanksgiving at home.

I now understand why people who host Thanksgiving need at least two ovens. It sure would be a lot easier.

I was grateful that I had made a practice turkey about a month ago so I knew just what I was doing & wouldn't forget to take anything out like I did with the practice one. ha! Don't worry. I got everything out of the practice one...I just had to take the turkey back out of the cooking bag.

Sarah made two gluten free pies and gluten free biscuits. They were so yummy!

Thanks Sarah for all your help in the kitchen! It made the day so special for us.

We also loved having Mr. and Mrs. H over. It's always hard to be away from family back home during the Holiday season but helps when you have great friends to share the days with.

Sarah left on Saturday for home. I'm hoping she can head back next year around this time. What a great tradition that would be for us.

Lily, Daisy and Emma sure have been missing her. They got a lot of extra hugs while she was here.

Mr. and Mrs. H. Mrs. H eats gluten free to so it was just perfect to have them over also.

They are pretty good to Emma and the dogs to.

My sweethearts that spend each and every day with me. They keep me going.

Lily & Daisy were pretty tuckered out by the end of the day. All the attention is a lot of work for them. ha!

It was a great day with lots of memories made!

A Cute Apron

2010-11-26T22:12:00.002-07:00

This post is just for my mother.

She is always making my sisters, the grandchildren & I things. Sometimes I wonder if she thinks we use any of the stuff she makes. It's always nice to see things you've made are being used.

So...here are a couple of pictures for you mom so that you know I have my apron out & am using it! I wore it all day yesterday for Thanksgiving & have it hanging on my hook to use whenever I'm working in the kitchen.

James told me I looked cute in it to! Just thought you'd want to know that. :)

My sweet girl and I.

Pictures & A Beret

2010-11-21T23:11:00.000-07:00

I decided I better get some more pictures up of Emma before someone calls & tells me I need to update my blog. ha!

Here is a beret I made for my niece. Of course it is a little to big on Emma. I think I'll have to make one for her though because they are just so cute.

I'm hoping I don't spoil the surprise for my niece by putting this up.

Here is a shot of the back of the beret.

Sarah is still here & is staying until after Thanksgiving. We've been watching lots of Christmas & old movies. We've also been watching some Hallmark movies...those only make us tear up a little. ha!

I told Sarah I don't think I've ever eaten so well as I have since she has been here. We have had lots of squash, sweet potatoes, green beans & rice.

Oh, we've had chocolate to but she keeps informing me that chocolate is good for you...I don't argue about that one! :)

Little Slippers

2010-11-20T11:59:00.000-07:00

I just love these little slippers. They are so sweet & just darling.

You can throw these together pretty easily in a day. They were not difficult at all.

Crocheting Parties

2010-11-18T00:02:00.000-07:00

Sarah & I stay up late every night watching movies & having crocheting parties. She has been making tons of cute hats.

Here are just a couple of Christmas projects I'm working on...of course I can't show to much until after Christmas. :)

I'm loving this Christmas tree garland. I've made so many trees I have the pattern memorized & they go together pretty quickly.

Hand warmers to go with the stocking caps I made. I can show these because I know my nephews don't look at this blog very often. I hope they look boyish enough. I had to change the pattern just a little bit for boys.

Sarah gets lots of snuggles from Emma, Lily & Daisy. Daisy & Lily just love to curl up next to her.

Emma gets her back rubbed and toes tickled by Sarah a lot!

We put the three kids in front of the tree tonight to get a couple of pictures. It took Sarah, James & I to get them collected & still. ha! It was a sight. Lily & Daisy both hid under the table & Emma kept standing up & walking off. We finally got this picture of them all looking up.

I told them all it was a practice picture.

Since it has gotten cooler the dogs love to curl up on the couch. They both wear sweaters. Lily loves to be on her back and have her tummy rubbed. She is wearing a little flannel sweater my mom made for her. How special!

Sarah brought chocolate almonds with sea salt from Trader Joe's for us to eat. We finally ate them all so she made us chocolates with sea salt yesterday. They were so yummy! I'm also loving the fact that she eats lots of potatoes. James does not like them so I've been making & eating lots & lots of them while she is here. It's been fabulous!

The Arrival of A Speical Guest & Package

2010-11-14T22:27:00.000-07:00

Sarah arrived last week. We have gotten lots of crocheting projects done & she has snuggled Emma, Lily & Daisy a lot! The dogs love to cuddle up next to her.

She and Emma have done some baking in the kitchen. Sarah is very patient with Emma and lets her help. It's so sweet.

My mom sent a special package to us in the mail last week. It had sweaters, some hats and my Christmas stocking in it. This is one of the sweaters that my grandmother made for me when I was little. It fits Emma perfectly and she has been wearing it a lot. It keeps her nice & warm.

Sarah, Emma & I went to Sears last week to get Emma's picture taken but it didn't go very well. So, this week we are going to try to just get a couple of shots of her with the dogs. Do you think they'll all stay still long enough? ha!

We took Daisy & Lily in last week to get their hair done. They are so pretty now with their little winter sweaters on.

Low Key Weekend

2010-11-08T11:18:00.000-07:00

Emma and I had a lazy weekend. James had to work two extra nights so the weekend consisted of her & I staying up past our bedtimes, crocheting a lot and watching Season three of The Pretender.

We had lots of snuggle time to.

Yesterday, when James woke up, I headed to Wal-mart by myself. Who likes going there? Well, I do when it gives me just a little break & gets me out for a few minutes. All the Christmas decor is out but it sure is hard to get in the Christmas mood when it was 70 degrees out. I don't know how you get in the holiday mood down south. I won't complain though because snow is suppose to come tonight. I knew that summer weather wouldn't last long but it was so nice.

After I got home from the store James headed out to get a few needed items from Home Depot & he took Emma with him.

Today we are anxiously awaiting for our special visitor, Sarah. We can't wait!

Emma is very serious about her play time this morning.

3 Hats, 2 Dogs & A Girl

2010-11-06T21:29:00.000-06:00

The crocheting projects are coming along.

I think James will be amazed that I got all three to sit still for a moment and keep all the hats on.
It wasn't very easy but we did it!

Just For You

2010-11-05T23:19:00.000-06:00

My niece asked me to update my blog today. So I'm throwing up a couple of pictures for her. I've been looking for my camera all evening but have somehow misplaced it. I'm not sure where it's at but believe it's probably right in front of me. Am I the only one that misplaces things? It can be so frustrating at times.

October into November

2010-11-02T22:38:00.000-06:00

Sweet Emma had a fabulous October & now she is gearing up for Thanksgiving & Christmas. I have lots planned for her such as eating lots of mashed potatoes, making Christmas cookies & ripping open some presents from Santa. :)

I don't have much time to blog lately. I have a lot of crocheting projects to complete by the end of the month but I'll try to keep posting pictures at least otherwise I know I'll get some phone calls.

Emma has had a slight cold & cough so she has been hanging out on grandma's blanket. She & Lily love this blanket that grandma C. made in the 1970's....or was it the 60's. Well, it was a while ago. ha!

She can climb up on the couch by herself now. She is learning that furniture is not to be climbed on.

I just can't get enough of her curls! Last month James started filling up our big bath tub to give her baths in. She is loving it! She splashes, slides back & forth, and sticks her face in the water to lick. It's quite funny.

Stocking Cap

2010-10-31T19:57:00.000-06:00

Poor Emma has to be my model for everything even when things don't really fit her.

I just love this stocking cap. The first one I made didn't turn out so well but I finally got it right on the second one.

I think every little boy needs a stocking cap to keep their head nice and toasty during the winter. :)

Update in Photos

2010-10-28T21:22:00.000-06:00

My niece reminded me today that I needed to get some updated pictures on here for her. I love my niece. I know pictures is all she cares about. Sorry I don't have any of the dogs. I'll take some this week and get them up for you.

Flashback Friday On A Saturday

2010-10-23T18:55:00.000-06:00

This is one of my favorite pictures from when I was younger and one of my favorite times I remember.

It was an awesome birthday party for me given by my great-aunt. It was a hat party. She also got me a Winnie the Pooh cake from the bakery downtown. I remember it was so yummy. Oh, and Mr. Magic also came and entertained us. It was a great time...at least I thought so! :)

Pretty In Lavender

2010-10-17T20:20:00.000-06:00

Emma's lavender poncho and hat have been finished!

Instead of making her a costume this year, I decided to spend my time making a hat and poncho since she is really still to small to care about dressing up yet.

I think she just looks "snazzy" in them.

I'm pretty pleased with how they turned out. The poncho is big enough for her to wear for a while.

Flashback Friday

2010-10-15T11:40:00.002-06:00

We had such a sweet, little, first home.

I have been thinking about it a lot this fall as James keeps reminding me that we'll be married twelve years in December.

It doesn't seem that long ago that he was scraping the old paint off the siding and painting it this beautiful blue for me.

Now, every time I see a house in the same color I just fall in love with it...no matter where it is or what style. It always reminds me of the sweet times I had in this house.

Even though I did get in a fight with the neighbors once and the police and James had to tell me to go inside. ha! But we won't talk about that. Not one of my most bright or proud moments.

I didn't think James was ever going to finish the work on this home. When he finally did it was time to buy land and build one. Whew! What a lot of work!

When we go back home we always drive past. It seems a bit lonely now that we're gone & the people don't seem to take as well care of it as we would have.

It was so close to our families, Arbys and town. :) What a blessing that God gave us such a lovely first home to have wonderful memories in.