myLife myStory

Thank you to those who served and serve today

2009-11-11T18:34:00.000-08:00

I hope everyone takes a moment to think of those that have served our country in the armed forces. I am grateful to those brave ones! Happy Veterans Day!

Today I became holder of U2 tickets for June 20, 2010 at Qwest Field! YeeHaaaaa! So excited and checking something off my bucket list! I was doing the Happy dance today with a co-worker who also got tickets. SCORE! We both got them during the Pre sale event for U2.com subscribers. I guess that makes us some kind of Bono Buds. Awesome since I am just getting to know everyone.

So Mel came into town this weekend for a visit with Teriann and Jane but we all got a chance to have brunch in Edmonds and catch up. What great fun to visit with the girls. We got onto the subject of foster to adopt and other issues of interest which got me back on my soap box friends! Check this out.....

OCC 2012 Stories: Women of Purpose from Overlake Christian Church on Vimeo.

I was in one of those bars during my Thailand (what we do for our buyers!) business trip. I saw these girls firsthand. I cry for them too.... If I ever have the opportunity to go back, I will go back with different eyes and a different message of love and hope.....

a new addition to my soapbox

2009-09-06T13:31:00.000-07:00

I have added a link to the Women of Vision blog to my soapbox interests on the right....

I joined the local chapter of WOV recently and have been reading a lot about the different activities available to me for additional service work. I have to be 100% honest that I recently applied for a job at World Vision (parent company) so my motives might be a bit tilted.

Anyhoo- I recently saw the Dianne Sawyer 20/20 special on "Children of the Mountains" and found it a fascinating documentary revealing great need for the people living in the Appalacian mountains. The Women of Vision organizes an annual trip to the Appalacia region for providing services and the spirit of hope to those in need. The next trip is scheduled for Oct. 2-4 and I plan to take that trip next year. It requires little personal $$$ investment but I am sure it would reap many rewards....

So go check out the blog on the right and see if you see anything that strums at your heartstrings. The Blog also has a link to the main Women of Vision website where you can join your local chapter. Local chapters participate in community service events near your home and abroad.

Let's make a difference together.... just one little effort at a time; we can do it!

Labor day.... how fitting a name!

2009-09-05T09:24:00.000-07:00

First thing and very important; Happy Birthday Judi!

Starting the weekend trying to finish the third book of Twilight series then on to packing and organizing a lifetime of "stuff". I sold the condo but with the ability to stay here for several months while the new owners sell their Detroit home. So my moving experience will be much less stressful and better executed than usually is the case when you move a lifetime of "stuff" to it's new home.

I also am desperately struggling with trying to figure out the new IPhone I received this week as a bday gift (Thank you friend). Not easy for a tech-challenged girl like me. Thank you to all who sent me Birthday wishes this week. I love you too!!!

So it is perfect rainy weather for my weekend plans of purging and packing, reading & watching the US Open (tennis).....

Check out this video that I really love. I am off to look for my bra; but I think I burned it years ago! LOL at myself!

Have a great weekend!

so it started with a birthday.....

2009-08-31T09:27:00.000-07:00

and since mine is today I ask you give me the present of your attention to this video.......

The story of charity: water - The 2009 September Campaign Trailer from charity: water on Vimeo.

don't forget; change happens one person at a time. YOU can make a difference in this world.....

Artful reminders of a bigger picture....

2009-08-25T20:54:00.000-07:00

Since the house is on the market I have taken down the little inspirational cards I am known to have around.... but my favorite messages are slowly emerging now as artful collage canvases.

A simple one made a few weeks ago. Seriously this took probably a half hour to make. The quote is "greater things are yet to come"

The one below is my largest work to date. 10" x 30" collage. I love the messages that remind me to do my part to help others. It is titled "Feed the World"

memories of recent concert.....

2009-08-17T20:00:00.000-07:00

I got to hear Steven Curtis Chapman at the recent Women of Faith conference. I hadn't really listened too much to him before but have become a fan now.... I love this song! At the conference he sang this song and told us the story he tells afterward.

I think a lot of girls can remember standing on their daddy's feet and dancing like a grown up!

It's August and I think of and miss my Daddy a lot still....

This is a particularly sad story he tells after singing this song. One of the little ones he spoke about was tragically killed in an accident last May.

He grieves his little girl and I still grieve my Dad.....

no more excuses.......

2009-08-16T11:50:00.000-07:00

My belly is full and content. My taste buds filled with the delights of my lunch of Fried Green Tomatoes. But what about those who do without the luxury of a lunch? What can we do for them? What can you do for them?

Excuses not to serve from Overlake Christian Church on Vimeo.

I have wanted to go to Africa to contribute to a positve message for many years. Serving others in greater need than me has been a significant influence in my recovery from self destructive mind thought and behavior. I learned this long ago and try to practise in everyday life. I have long admired my brother Dick and SIL Margy for their time in the Peace Corp when they were younger. I have always admired the work of World Vision and Save the Children. My biggest dream is to go on a mission trip to Africa and I believe the time will come next year.

There is some good interest in my home recently and I will be able to make a lot of positive changes when I have sold it. I will be able to pay back all debt and start rebuilding a retirement account and still meet my goal of going on a trip to help those in greater need than me. I also have sent my resume to World Vision, headquartered in Federal Way. No openings right now, but you have to start somewhere right?

So there it is..... Set a Goal and take one step at a time to move toward meeting those goals! That is what I am all about today.....

I need a weekend to rest after this weekend!

2009-08-03T20:23:00.000-07:00

Living proof that I am getting out of my shell and enjoying life a little more...... Thank you friends and you know who you are (Roy, Leslie & Todd)

Friday night Concert series at Bothell Landing....

Normally camera shy Roy in right corner below.... Thank you for being my friend.

Saturday Hike with Leslie and Connor; Mirror Lake on Snoqualmie Pass...

Two buddies bonding ....... a love fest on Connors part. Me? I took a quick dip in my hiking clothes to cool off. It was absolutely heaven. Hey Leslie; thanks for being my friend.

Seafair Sunday I went out with Todd, Julie, Amanda and her GF to watch the Blue Angels on the I-90 bridge. I am practising my T pose (I will explain next week). All I can say is that the Angels are again AWESOME. I think I had more fun than the rest and expect to go it alone or have to gather a new group for next year (their interest died with the heat).

Finally got to meet Julie. I hope you are feeling better!

So there...... She lives......

and has fun with the help of some awesome friends! Thanks to everyone! (except the bugs that ate me up; 52 bites and counting)

For the record.....

2009-07-29T16:48:00.000-07:00

Yowza it is a hot one out there today. Current temp of 104 actually sets a record here in Kirkland topping the previous record of 103. After what seems like a month of above normal temperatures I think I am actually starting to acclimate. Listen to me, talking pretty tall for a girl that is sitting in front of a fan in a cotton sarong. Not that there is anything else to do in this heat….. Simply not a day for outside activities.

With a renewed hope for my job search I have spent the day in front of the computer and fan searching all the job sites. That being completed for the day, I move onto checking in with the old blogaroni.

Last weekend I went to a Women of Faith conference with a couple of girlfriends. I’ve been before and really recommend ladies with the opportunity to check it out. A great weekend filled with ladies sharing courageous stories of their Faith walk. I both laughed and cried throughout the weekend. And danced and sang with Steven Curtis Chapman and Mandisa. Just a great way to spend a weekend!

I thought I would share a few collage pieces I have done recently. I did the Seek 2 Learn canvas a while ago as I am dedicated to remain open for spiritual growth and a deeper relationship with God. I used to have cards with scripture written on them plastered around the house but with it being on the market I thought these might be a better alternative.

The past month has provided a recurring theme in my life lesson. It seems that my requirement is to learn forgiveness. Whether at church, at work, the recent conference or in talking with friends, the topic of forgiveness comes into the picture. I have worked hard at resolving resentments over the years but have been stuck when it comes to an ex-boss and my ex-husband. Through the help of the scriptures and several friends counsel, I finally accept that forgiveness is a choice I make, not a feeling that can be acquired. So as a reminder of the gift that I have received and am now expected to also give I made this collage now hanging on my bedroom wall……

Ok I have nothing else to say for now…. I am heading out to set up the sprinkler for my nightly romp with Connor. It’s been a wonderful thing we both share on hot evenings!

Friday night video.....

2009-07-24T15:08:00.000-07:00

Can't believe it's been almost a month since posting. 2 part time jobs and full time job search are filling my days. I just wanted to post this video making the news circuit today. This is my kind of wedding..... I absolutely love it! These kids got married last month in St. Paul MN. I wish them the best!

To see correctly Double click on the video to enlarge the screen....

I have been gifted tickets to the Women of Faith Conference this weekend at Key Arena. I have gone before & am sure to get a boost of Inspiration, Hope, Lovin'. There is something special when women hold women up isn't there?

Have a great weekend! It is going to be a hot one!

friday night video on a monday.

2009-06-29T17:57:00.000-07:00

wow its been a while since I ranted on the old blogaroni.....

I have had a little trouble adjusting to all the different duties now required daily. I will get there and am making progress. James moved out and now I am living completely alone for the first time in my life. That reality alone, with all its pendulum swing of emotions, will take some time for adjustment. One moment I love the perks, the other I fall into a loneliness I have never experienced. I know I will be ok. Just another opportunity for growth even though I kind of wish I hadn't had so many growth opportunities over the past 1.5 years.

Moving on; changing topics.....

Lately I have been thinking about the topic on the video below. My family would definately confirm the I am one that has been preoccupied by the external appearances for most of my life. Over the last several years I have been gradually letting that go. Now I know I have a few non churchy readers but this is still a very effective message about todays obsession for the tan, thin and beautiful. This video will hopefully make you smile or laugh and more importantly think about the bigger picture. I especially like the Washington white joke. Now you watch this video while I go spread on another coat of self tanner...... lol! It is all about progress, not perfection!

Burning Barbie from Overlake Christian Church on Vimeo.

finally feeling my mojo return......

2009-06-16T16:36:00.000-07:00

I was totally inspired after a great church service on Sunday and came home and whipped this out in a couple of hours. No Fear!

most product is from Studio Calico or Jenni Bowlin

hopefully I will become a great Auntie again this week...... waiting patiently for the news from across Lake Washington.

Lots of not so little things…..

2009-06-13T15:45:00.000-07:00

It’s a little after 3 and I have had a full day by my usual standards. I woke up to some great news. My son James got an awesome email from the U of Washington. He was awarded a partial scholarship from the Engineering department for his Senior year. He worked with his counselor and through a few minor changes (like moving out of moms house) he now qualifies for more grants and a higher level of subsidized loan. After all is said and done, he will have his senior year covered by a combination of scholarship, grant, and loan. And some say there isn’t a God……. This mama is sighing in relief and is very grateful for one less thing to guilt trip over.

I spent a few hours working on a Habitat for Humanity project in Redmond this morning. It was great working side by side with the single mom who will be living in the townhouse I was painting and cleaning. It was fun watching her take such loving care as she polished and vacuumed her future home. I did so little in retrospect but I have full intention to get more involved with the program in the future. One thing I know to be true is service work for others reduce my own tendency to throw outrageous pity parties for myself.

Last thing for today is showing a layout I just finished. It has been really hard to keep up on the scrapping and I think my mojo might be lost forever….. however this one was way to quick and easy…..

I hope to be back again tomorrow with another post. I have a burning desire to jump up on my soapbox and talk a bit about something affecting every American…..

PS - had to add this video for my Pastors wife Jodie. This awesome woman in doing a half Iron man in Boise as we speak. Her theme song is one of my favorite U2 song. I am going to play it this afternoon several times in her honor. I am pretty sure that right now she is doing the bike portion..... Go Jodie you Rock star you! By the way a link to her blog is on my sidebar to the right. Jodie Howerton. Just click on her name......

hold your head up and keep on dancin.....

2009-06-12T17:19:00.001-07:00

Welcome to a new series called FRIDAY NIGHT VIDEOS!

I claim this blog title literally because when I found this one I just couldn't help but get up and dance. Connor was the only witness to my nuttiness! Yes, music turns me into a 20 something all over again!

Come on back tomorrow. I have some plans to share more this weekend! Happy Friday!

The birthday girl......

2009-06-08T19:59:00.001-07:00

Just a quick note to show off the birthday girl Megan and her new awesome haircut! We had such a great time and we ate our brains out.... I am feeling a bit guilty because I didn't get charged my fair share for dinner. I will have to do something really nice for Jennifer who carried most of the burden. It was so much fun and a really big deal for me as I can't remember the last time I went out.

I have been working 2 part time jobs lately which is really helping ease the stress. I am still in negative cash flow but at least at a slower rate. The job listings have decreased lately, so I am really grateful to those who are giving me the occasional odd job for income.

Monday night TLC watch and getting ready for Jon & Kate + 8. Now that is a storyline that helps me keep my life in perspective. I count my blessings ......

a birthday wish.....

2009-06-06T11:45:00.000-07:00

Pulled together this simple canvas for a friend celebrating her twenty something Bday. We are meeting at PF Changs for a celebration so I wanted to give it a fortune cookie theme. The fortune reads "you will always be surrounded by true friends". It is shameful how easy this was to do. First I have a collection of small canvases bought long ago during the major Dick Blick sale. When I see a technique I like on other blogs I like to play around creating canvas backgrounds to keep on hand for future. I had done this one a while back and it became a perfect base for this project. Like usual, I pulled out my Studio Calico stash and began cutting and gluing....... so simple yet so different from the other birthday cards she will receive. I will hate to see it go, it kind of looks good next to an old photo of a Monk at a Buddhist Temple in Bangkok, Thailand (circa 2003).

I hope everyone is having a great weekend and keeping with the Chinese theme.....

Nee How Ma !
(good day in Mandarin)

run on popsicles in the northwest.....

2009-06-04T21:36:00.000-07:00

it is way to hot to fall asleep easily tonight so I am exploring the vimeo website to see what inspires me.

I am lovin' this tale of a local dude doing great things. OK maybe I've been listening to my SoCal transplant surfer dude pastor for a bit too long. I say this with a lot of love.......

Motor(ed) Bike from Overlake Christian Church on Vimeo.

I hope to one day be in a position to do something this great and this selfless. I would absolutely love to work for a non profit organization. Is this the time? I wish I could see what the future holds for me, but if I could see what is in store I would not grow in Faith. For everything there is a purpose. and a season.

Good night all......

payback for a wicked winter

2009-05-30T10:38:00.000-07:00

Disclaimer to my Artist friends: being crafty can be a real challenge in NW summers. We had such a lousy winter that when the weather is good, I am drawn outside. There are gardens to tend, parks to explore, lakes and rivers to visit and mountains to hike....... so inside crafts just don't compete with those options.

We are currently having the kind of weather that helps us put up with our horrible winters. Absolutely beautiful blue skies and perfect temperatures sustained over several weeks. I got up early to take Connor to the park for some exercise. Focused, obsessed, addicted? All apply when it comes to Connor and a Ball. This past week I have been using a soft Frisbee like disk instead of a ball and he is getting the hang of it jumping up to catch in mid air. It went missing last night so the balls went to the park this morning. Maybe my Vet niece Emily can explain something...... why do dogs tend to run in a somewhat crooked position? I mean he is running forward but he is kind of at an angle. He has always done this and makes me wonder....... Anyhow when he plays fetch he refuses to take water breaks so when we get home he quickly plops down in the cool grass by his water bowl.

Sometimes I am afraid he will have a heart attack or something. It generally takes a bit before he settles down on my cold entryway tile for a long sleep.

So I am feeling the need to capture every corner of my home and garden on camera lately. My way of saying farewell to everything I have planted or tended to over the past 8 years. Here are some of my current blooms.........

I really hope you are enjoying your weekend and doing what you LOVE to do!

Later....

wonderful wanderings over the weekend....

2009-05-28T17:22:00.000-07:00

Jennifer and I went to Luther Burbank Park on Mercer Island for some sun and conversation.

Later we met up with Megan who took us to lunch where we sat out on the patio and relaxed a bit before walking through downtown Issaquah....

I am a bit depressed today as I had a job rejection last week and another one yesterday. I guess I should be thankful that I at least had interviews....... but interviews don't pay the bills. Tomorrow is another day and I pray for better spirits!

One awesome thing to celebrate is James was informed last night he received a scholarship from the Chemical Engineering Department. He will have half of his tuition paid for his final year at the U of W....... I am really proud of him.

additional post:

I have just learned from a friend that a family I know is in extreme crises. Both husband and wife, parents of small children, are taking a nose dive straight to their individual bottoms due to addiction. This family would make TLC's Jon and Kate count their blessings.....

It breaks my heart to see this happen but driving home tonight, I reflected about it. This has helped me put things in proper perspective. While I might be unemployed and in financial crises, I at least have my health. Who cares where I live, who cares if I have to start over again. I am healthy!

Thank you God for revealing what I needed to see.......

jimmy johnson in the house......

2009-05-17T13:02:00.000-07:00

what a nice saturday in seattle.....

2009-05-16T18:54:00.000-07:00

I spent the day outside working in the garden. I know I told myself I was going to wash my car today but the back yard and the mid 70's weather just beckoned..... I had been waiting for a good day to spread the compost throughout the beds.

Compost..... "Black Gold". I find it cool to put old flowers, weeds, and kitchen produce in a barrel and return a year later to this wonder soil and organic fertilizer. It's not quite that simple but I've been composting since the early 80's and still get that awesome sense of accomplishment when your large pile is reduced to this........

Connor was also working hard with me. Always following close behind with the ball just in case I got the urge to play...... we did get some good fun time in the sun today too.

Gosh - I love the look of the gardens with the rich dark soil spread around the borders and feeding my precious roses and flowering shrubs.

I hope to get outside tomorrow afternoon too. I still have the car mats to scrub and looking forward to doing it in the sun after church.....

Great day! Great Weekend!

spring rains and a little art

2009-05-14T17:09:00.000-07:00

Todays rain is making the garden look lush and green...... The lilac is just about ready to open in full bloom. I am a patient gardener; waiting 5 years for this colorful explosion.

Connor even enjoyed his time outside. He takes his fetch job so seriously. He too is patient....

I did these layouts this past weekend. The first layouts I've done in months. I used a mixture of past Studio Calico kits ......

James and Megan at Disneyland and California Adventure - Spring Break 2009.

2009-05-01T08:40:00.000-07:00

Happy May Day!

Thank you for all the encouraging words. The act of writing down emotions tends to be quite cathartic for me. Putting thought to paper helps the process and I am today more focused on the exciting aspects of upcoming changes. James moving out, a career change and a home change all at the same time can be daunting at moments. But I was reminded this week how often being uncomfortable accompanies times of great growth.

So I took my earlier advise and have watched the Mike video a couple times; gaining perspective once again.

I am off to wash my sofa slipcovers and look for a few throw rugs per realtor advise. We are going to have great weather; sunny and in the 70's -
Nothing will get in my way of enjoying today!

Have a happy Friday! and a happy May Day! I am adding to my to do list.....

Make a Posie and put on my bedside table!

saying goodbye

2009-04-29T10:58:00.000-07:00

With the close of my business during a horrible employment market I made the decision to sell my condo in order to get some capital out of my investment. You see the self employed experiencing a down turn in business just can’t go refinance with the banks. So as I stage the home for sale I am reflective and falling in love with it all over again.

Why is it so hard to let things go? Why am I having such a hard time in saying goodbye? Why do I find it impossible to call the realtor and sign the contract? Maybe it’s because this home holds a significant place in my heart as the first place I was able to own since my divorce in 1993. I worked hard to get a broken life pulled together and to focus on achieving some pretty lofty goals made in 2000. This place is my sanctuary, a place where I feel both safe and free.

It is a place where I had my own business for five years. I enjoyed much success before the eventual fall of the furniture industry…….

I will miss this yard, the second garden I have designed, and the beautiful sunsets on the back patio. I will miss my hydrangeas and clematis collections which I adore and Connor will miss his only home and favorite place to stretch out in the sun…..

I will miss this Rose. David Austin’s Shrub Rose “Evelyn” was planted shortly after arriving in 2001. It shares the name of my mother who is responsible for planting the gardening seed in me many years ago. Mom’s ashes are sprinkled beneath this rose among the campanula.......

My family has shared many holidays here and I have attempted to form new traditions.

Intellectually I can recognize that career and living changes might be good for me now. But I am just waiting for my heart to follow my head. Because the heart is hurting just a tad right now……

sunday inspiration

2009-04-26T15:05:00.000-07:00

just a really short post today. We are having a good weekend here in Seattle so I am going to capitalize on the extra energy and get some much needed work done....

Since most of my paper supplies are in storage I am left to exploring the digi world. so I was just playing last night on making blog banners - here is one......

I've long been a fan of Anthony Robbins and taken several workshops with him. I recently found him on twitter and look forward to his thought provoking tweets. I subsequently have found his Blog to which I give credit for finding this gem of a video.

Now this is inspiration.........

I hope you all have a good week -Keep the Faith!

If you start having doubts throughout the week and need to be lifted up............
watch this video again, and again, and again.

TGIF

2009-04-24T09:22:00.000-07:00

You know that I must have a thing for Rebecca Sower since this is the third time I mention her. I loved her mixed media style since she had her scrapbooking books published through CK. She inspires me to play with fabrics and look at the world through a different lense. Her art is just plain inspiring and her photography just draws you in. But it's Rebecca's post today that exemplifies why I admire her. She encourages me while prodding me to reflect and take action.

You can read it Here.

The lawns are being mowed right now and the sun is actually shining through my window. I can hardly wait to sweep my porch and water the pots today. It is still too cold for me but the sun is just too inticing. Besides if I don't work outside then I must be working inside -YUK.

Here are a few layouts- Have a great day and weekend everyone.

off to get my work done so I can take Connor to Marymoor Park. Besides his head on my leg right now means he wants some attention. Little does he know that cutting his nails is on my to do list. (twirling my handlebar mustache right now)

PS- The new banner is from House of 3 and there is a link on my sidebar. I have a ton of fun on that new website.......

Have a great weekend!.

YouTube Fun tonight....

2009-04-22T18:23:00.000-07:00

If this does not choke you up I just don't know......

My favorite volunteer effort has been to usher for concerts held at Overlake. I had the pleasure to work for Mercy Me a few years ago and follow them on Twitter and subsequently found their blog tonight. It's been so much fun to check out their blogposts and videos.... I hope you enjoyed their song.

I have heard of father-son triatholon story before but can't find any details to share now. It is so inspirational but I can't help but to feel a bit sad that my own 2 children have not known the true Love of a Father.

On second thought, they do have the Love of a Father. Just not the one that they thought.....

I hope they both know how much their Momma loves them too! xoxoxoxo

What are you doing to celebrate?

2009-04-22T08:48:00.000-07:00

stay the course....

2009-04-21T12:16:00.000-07:00

I have completed my morning search of job listings and taking a break. My routine has been checking in on Craig's List and Career Builder throughout the day because they seem to post opportunities more frequently than the rest. I did meet with a recruiter yesterday and have high hopes she can find me something. I used to work with her when I was doing the hiring at my previous position 5 years ago, so we have history and she knows the environment I have experienced.

Any how.... checking in with facebook and twitter I found a new video posted. I have been hoping to get a video of this incredible band to share and it is finally here.....

Not only do the words speak loud and clear to me, I really love the visual presentation. It sends those awesome sparks of delight through my creative nerves. I really missed my calling.... After discovering such joy in paper crafting and artful design, I so wish I would have gone into Graphic Arts. All those years being layout editor for HS yearbooks gone to waste. Oh well..... not good to harbor regrets.....look forward Terri.

I hope you enjoy this music. It's not the "How great thou art" that I grew up with. I long ago embraced this musical genre, and love that I have found a home where I can be free to dance during worship. Jesse just plain ROCKS!

Prodigal from Overlake Christian Church on Vimeo.

PS - His name is Jesse Butterworth and the band has 4 albums you can purchase from ITunes.... (If anyone out there knows how to link ITunes to blogposts please let me know)

Have a great day!!!

look straight ahead, not behind you....

2009-04-15T10:12:00.000-07:00

Back at the job hunt again. I'm not sure what is up, just can't seem to seal the deal or get the job offer. Another one lost after getting to the final step.... Keeping my head up and looking straight ahead for the next opportunity.

Just a little something for us Moms to smile about.......

Why GOD MADE MOMS
Answers given by 2nd grade school children to the following questions:

Why did God make mothers?
1. She's the only one who knows where the scotch tape is.
2. Mostly to clean the house.
3. To help us out of there when we were getting born.

How did God make mothers?
1. He used dirt, just like for the rest of us.
2. Magic plus super powers and a lot of stirring.
3. God made my Mom just the same like he made me. He just used bigger parts.

What ingredients are mothers made of ?
1. God makes mothers out of clouds and angel hair and everything nice in the world and one dab of mean.
2. They had to get their start from men's bones. Then they mostly use string, I think.

Why did God give you your mother and not some other mom?
1. We're related.
2. God knew she likes me a lot more than other people's moms like me.

What kind of little girl was your mom?
1. My Mom has always been my mom and none of that other stuff.
2. I don't know because I wasn't there, but my guess would be pretty bossy.
3. They say she used to be nice.

What did Mom need to know about dad before she married him?
1. His last name.
2. She had to know his background. Like is he a crook? Does he get drunk on beer?
3. Does he make at least $800 a year? Did he say NO to drugs and YES to chores?

Why did your mom marry your dad?
1. My dad makes t he best spaghetti in the world. And my Mom eats a lot.
2. She got too old to do anything else with him.
3. My grandma says that Mom didn't have her thinking cap on.

Who's the boss at your house?
1. Mom doesn't want to be boss, but she has to because dad's such a goofball.
2. Mom. You can tell by room inspection. She sees the stuff under the bed.
3. I guess Mom is, but only because she has a lot more to do than dad.

What's the difference between moms & dads?
1. Moms work at work and work at home and dads just go to work at work.
2. Moms know how to talk to teachers without scaring them....
3. Dad s are taller & stronger, but moms have all the real power 'cause that's who you got to ask if you want to sleep over at your friend's.
4. Moms have magic, they make you feel better without medicine.

What does your mom do in her spare time?
1. Mothers don't do spare time.
2. To hear her tell it, she pays bills all day long.

What would it take to make your mom perfect?
1. On the inside she's already perfect. Outside, I think some kind of plastic surgery.
2. Diet. You know, her hair. I'd diet,maybe blue.

If you could change one thing about your mom, what would it be?
1. She has this weird thing about me keeping my room clean. I'd get rid of that.
2. I'd make my mom smarter. Then she would know it was my sister who did it and not me.
3. I would like for her to get rid of those invisible eyes on the back of her head.

Have an awesome day!

Thank you for the Cross Service - 2009

2009-04-11T11:53:00.001-07:00

Enjoying my Easter weekend with friends! Loved last nights service at Church.

We nailed our scribbled lost hopes to a wooden cross. Now I have a wonderful visual reminder that he will take my burdens on if I just remember to stay connected or seek him. That tends to be the struggle for me though and I'm sure it's a control thing. Never the less this next year I will have something tangible to remember and I'm a visual kind of learner......

Another very cool thing that happened during Pastor Mikes message there was an artist squating down on the stage painting on what looked like some tarps..... At the end Mike lifted up and set on display a large canvas version of the above picture.....

It is a Stunning Canvas!

staying focused......

2009-04-09T09:03:00.000-07:00

A quick post as I am on a roll with the employment search and don't want to distract from my renewed energy. Please say a prayer for me as I have an interview tomorrow with a local company 6 minutes from home. The commute might be rough but I will give it a shot!!

I know it's a 6 minute commute because it's just a couple blocks away from here........

I HEART OCC from Overlake Christian Church on Vimeo.

Thanks for watching the video.... it's a fun place to be! God Bless and have a great day!
Leaving you with my latest hybrid Canvas art and something to ponder. I know I have been lately.....

JOY - is the echo of God's life within us

My reflection has been to recognize the responsibility I have to share the joy that He has provided me. It's all about being an example to others isn't it? Let me know what you think of when reading the message......

don't let the virus get you down....

2009-03-31T09:11:00.000-07:00

I am back after a short computer breakdown due to famous facebook virus seen on 60 minutes this week...... I will be back with more but leaving you this morning with some fun pics of James and Megan at Disneyland over the weekend!

You are never too old to have fun at Disneyland right? See you later on - have a great one!

still waiting and therefor still creating......

2009-03-20T09:29:00.000-07:00

I wanted to play with some papers from Studio Calico on this weeks canvas. I decided to cut and collage with papers from past kits Iconic, Newstand, and Looking Glass. I added my own paints and a quote to finally finish a long overdue gift.

This was a lot of fun and I loved the process, learning even more about different mediums I am playing with. If there is any collage people out there, I would love your comments on your favorite adhesive product for paper on canvas.........

Oh and I found a great embroidery booklet this week to get me moving on a better embroidery path. Most likely will start practising tonight during my Friday night Ghost Whisperer party with Connor.....

Happy Friday ladies.....

sunday inspiration

2009-03-15T20:17:00.000-07:00

My weekends tend to be a combination of duty and artful playtime. The ratio varies depending on the priorities but artful playtime usually wins out in the end.....

My intention this week was to share my exploration of the fabric sampler. I absolutely love this project as its something to keep my hands busy at night when watching tv. However, you can see from the examples I was dreamin' big when I thought I could pick up needle and thread after 30 years. I admit to needing some serious practise prior to making a sampler as planned.

So instead today I worked on a canvas collage for my sons girlfriend Megan. I had a blast working on this project, using papers from a past Studio Calico kit and more paper that comes in my Somerset Studio magazines. I found a favorite quote that captured the message I wanted to send and glazed it finally with gel medium.

the quote is: "The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams" by Eleanor Roosevelt.

love love love the day.... enjoyed a morning snow, cleaned a bit and created some art.

what more can one ask?
maybe a job offer!

This little guy has spring fever ....

2009-03-13T07:48:00.000-07:00

Connor had such spring fever yesterday he just had to play outside and enjoy the sunshine...... How did I know that you say? Well the very quiet but high pitched whine he had while fidgeting at the back door was a little hint..... As you can see by the bright picture we are having a clear weather week even though it remains in the 40's..... brrrrr.... frost on the cars in the mornings cold.

I was able to go up to the garage and pull out a few must haves for my next project. I am working on a fabric collage inspired of course by Rebecca Sower. In her Inspiration section of her Blog sidebar you can see her fabric sampler like work. I have decided to use the old crochet edged table runner I got a few weekends ago at the vintage store for the base and to add little handworked pieces to it. I am playing around with several ideas on how to hang afterward too. So my box of fibers & threads gave me a little shot of happiness as I opened it last night. I have more than I remember and am pleased with the colors I pulled out to work with.

Now my bead collection didn't quite pass the same test. No oooohs No aaaaws when I opened this box. I really didn't have seed or bugle beads in my collection therefor I had little to add to my working stash. I did have fun going through my button collection, pulling all the ones that I hope to use on my work this weekend.......

I will show you some progress on Sunday for sure!

just a little quote

2009-03-09T08:28:00.000-07:00

Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, “Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, and fabulous?” Actually who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won’t feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine, as children do. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It is not just in some of us; it is in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.

– Nelson Mandela

have a good start to your week!

sunday inspiration

2009-03-08T11:46:00.000-07:00

I just spent the weekend with 100+ women from my community at the AWAKE conference sponsored by Overlake Christian Church. It was my first time going but it won't be my last that is for sure. I had such a good time meeting several new friends and hearing many inspirational and at times hilarious stories. It was 2 days filled with great song, great food and meaningful discussions. One of the lectures I selected to attend was named Practical Compassion and we explored several small things we could do as individuals to help contribute to a better world. The subject did explore a few issues regarding going green and so I find it fitting to include a recent YouTube discovery. I remember last year I heard about this the day after so this year I have marked my calendar.

That is Saturday March 28th - 8:30-9:30pm

Blessed Blog affirmations.....

2009-03-07T18:11:00.000-08:00

a.k.a. OMG! Stacy Julian read my blog!!!!!!!! and better yet- even left me a comment!!!
a.k.a. recipient of wonderful affirmation from Studio Calico "hope to call girlfriends" too.
Blown away by it all but extremely energized by the comments left. Thank you so much.

There is one comment from Scrappyoga (love that name) that brought me smiles today. As I took pics of the last canvas art I was aware of the background and made a mental note to talk about my lunchbox sometime soon. So I was so delighted when scrappy sister called it out.....

I love this lunchbox and am so grateful for a mother with the art background and the foresight to store this little box away so I can recover it later on (after her passing).

First reason I love this box is that I know my father carried this lunchbox (in its original form) every day to work and he was my life example of hard work ethics. Everyone who knows me knows that my father is to date my favorite man in life and I have learned much from him. Secondly my mother took this lunchbox from him and painted it for me when I started freshman year in high school. One end has my name and the other has RHS '75. yeh yeh yeh I'm an old fart. So what, I'm a cool old fart. My mom would be horrified to have this as a published example of her art but it remains a cherished reminder of my youth and one of my favorites today.

so thank you art and scrap world! I love you and am inspired by you daily!!!!

see you tomorrow with my sunday inspiration post.......

a few hours of escape.....

2009-03-05T21:06:00.000-08:00

just a few hours of escape this afternoon!

I may not have my paper but I do have canvas and paints handy!

oh and how I love collage!

this favorite scripture now hangs in my bedroom......

the scrappers' angst......

2009-03-03T20:45:00.000-08:00

I have a few gifts to make and even more projects in progress but just don't have anything around to complete them. Aaarrgh! Knowing I have what I need but it's just packed away and stored up in the garage is of no comfort to me right now....

I am trying this really clean and clutter free appoach to living but it is a real DRAG when it comes to exploring creativity and making things! This is supposed to be relaxing and gentle for ones soul..... not creating the angst I feel..... got to get my work done today and head up to unpack a few essentials....

sunday inspiration

2009-03-01T12:38:00.000-08:00

sunday inspiration is a series intended to inspire us to think more, create more, and act more. This weeks is a lofty goal of which I will surely spend the rest of my life in attempt to achieve!

Thank you for watching this video and may it be inspiration to a better you!

PS - James was home after a few short hours out with the boys.....
Since he is a big boy now he will be in charge of cleaning his bathroom & a few laundry loads today......

Rebecca on the brain......

2009-02-28T12:02:00.000-08:00

Woke up pretty early today since James had to shower and get out the door to work opening shift at 6am. Not that I actually said anything at 5:30 but the brain was roused and working. After reading my Somerset Studio mag last night I had planned on a trip to my favorite antique market to see if anything was CHEAP and available to fill my craving for vintage fabric & needlework.

Shortly after my Saturday morning ritual of coffee and Jaime Oliver (English bloke that has a fantastic garden and is an incredible chef) my birthday boy James called to tell me he was having problems with his wisdom teeth and in "excruciating pain." Knowing full well he would not go get the ambisol I suggested until after his shift ends, I put it into speed gear to get out the door. If you missed it, today is sort of James' birthday. Sort of because he is my leap year day baby born 21 years ago....... Any hoo I dropped off the ambisol to my guy in the orange apron as he mixed paint for customers and then I chatted a little with an older Depot employee who had such nice things to say about my kiddo..... "Boy he is a really good kid, works hard and smart" to be exact.

I finished my other necessary errands before I treated myself to an antique escape..... To my surprise, they were having a semi annual sale with everything being 15-50% off marked price. Now since everything with a vintage or antique label in my town is marked way too high to begin with, it was hardly the bargain I read about in the south. With an eagle eye for only things that were garage sale pricing and calculator in hand I found the above goodies. The score of the day was the antique photos and the big bag of embroidery goods and saffron tin. As I opened the bag of yarns I found a crumpled up old note about the cost of taking the autobahn from Yugoslavia to Austria then Hungary. Yugoslavia? Seeing that was an omen that it was meant to be mine and not to feel guilt in the selfish indulgence. See I am 1/2 Macedonian aka part of Yugoslavia. I showed great restraint and kept my total purchase to less than a 20 spot for all the goods above.

So I have had a great morning but now I must get back to my painting. Today is James door and casings day...... Since he won't be home much he can do without the door. Everyone I am asking a favor. James is going out tonight with his buddies for the official "21 run" so I could use some prayers that they do nothing really stupid and they stay safe. I know I will be a bit tense until I hear him come through the door tomorrow or get a phone call that they are at least off the streets!

See you tomorrow for Sunday inspiration!!!

sunday inspiration

2009-02-22T09:32:00.000-08:00

since Sundays are typically known as a day of faith & reflection I thought I would feature different things that inspire me on this day each week. My intent is to include a wide variety of inspirational subjects including people, places and things.

When I began exploring the papercrafting world I found Rebecca Sower to be a creative scrapper with a twist. I noticed that she used a lot of fabric, beads and antique elements on her pages. I also found her scrapbook topics and journaling extremely unique and sentimental so I devoured everything I could find from her. I discovered her blog a few years ago and have continued to enjoy watching her art change through the years. I don't believe she scraps anymore but has ventured into the mixed media world of Art. Her thoughtful little creations just plain tickle my senses. Lately she makes me want to pick up needle and thread and gather old fabrics and findings. You can find her blog by clicking on her name above and expect to get lost for a while. Her reflective style of writing brings a calm to my ever chattering brain. She has an incredible garden section on the sidebar that you can't miss (especially here in the NW where we are needing the garden inspiration). She also has a lot of pics of her little goodies under different sidebar categories.

You can find her most recent book available HERE. She is also featured in the Somerset Studio magazines on occasion. I hope you enjoy her work and her writing as much as I do.....

I am very grateful I found her as early in my art experience as I did and will always look for more inspiration and graceful thought provoking prose......

Thank you Rebecca!
You make me slow down and count my blessings!

bring it on.....

2009-02-20T09:37:00.000-08:00

I know that my local grocery clerk and I agree (on a weekly basis) that we are ready for the next season..... Tired of the cold and snow showers of winter. I am really ready for spring and the rebirth that it signifies..... I am looking for daily signs of an emerging garden while cutting out what winter has destroyed (I lost the two rosemaries pictured here to the freeze).

Did you know that our seasons are coming earlier than they used to? 1.7 days to be precise. Did you also know that seasons change at different rates over land vs. over ocean? There are several explanations for it and I have attached an article from National Geographic Here so you can decide for yourself.

Any how, I am ready for the sun and ready for the renewed spirits that the sun can bring to ones soul....

take me out to the ballgame

2009-02-18T18:35:00.000-08:00

MY OH MY.........

Oh My! WOOHOO!

2009-02-12T08:44:00.000-08:00

I am really not a techie.....
but I figured this thing out....

enjoy and see how many people you can relate to!

Cardboard Testimonies from Overlake Christian Church on Vimeo.

that scary G word.....

2009-02-11T16:05:00.000-08:00

I finally got my tail back to church this past Sunday and even though I didn't see anyone I knew, it really felt like a loving family reunion. I am trying my best to get out of the dark days of my disintegrating business and midlife health issues so who better to turn to than my God? Ultimately my higher power is my true source of support and unconditional love. I know he remains active in my life even if I don’t listen all the time. I am in awe of his enduring patience even though I have the habit of taking back the control. At least I have learned to recognize his work in my life sooner than in the past, which is a great step in the right direction. I have really worked hard at increasing my communication with God through prayer. I believe this is bringing a bit of hope & peace to the current storm.

I ask everyone to check out my pastors blog at http://mikehowerton.blogspot.com/
Yesterday he posted a video from this weeks service and the music is from my church band. I am so encouraged and blessed by both…..

PS- someday I will learn how to insert videos to my blog.....

well sort of a break...

2009-02-03T14:03:00.001-08:00

not really much to say but I did receive this today from a dear friend,

Dear God,
The lady reading this is beautiful, classy and strong, and I love her.
Help her live her life to the fullest.
Please promote her and cause her to excel above her expectations.
Help her shine in the darkest places where it is most impossible to love.
Protect her at all times, lift her up when she needs you the most,
and let her know when she walks with you, she will always be safe.

I hope everybody has a friend like this one has been for me......
Someone that knows your heart and has your back!
I love you Jen.....

taking a break....

2009-02-02T14:06:00.000-08:00

There is really nothing I want to share so I will be taking a break from blogging....

January 20, 2009

2009-01-20T08:39:00.001-08:00

a call to service .......

2009-01-19T20:15:00.000-08:00

Don't ask what the world needs.

Ask what makes you come alive

and do it. Because what the world

needs is people who have come alive.

- Howard Thurman

Hope for a better tomorrow....

2009-01-17T09:19:00.000-08:00

I am really happy that the inaugural events are beginning. I can feel a little joy sneak in between my hot flashes and anxious mind thought. My hopes and prayers are with President elect Borack Obama & his family every day. The desperate situation he faces help me keep my own problems in better perspective. As my current difficulties seem hopeless at times, P.E. Obama brings me a certain confidence that I will be okay. As he reminds us often that this year will be another tough one, he instills hope for my long term future. I am watching the train move south toward Washington DC and am pretty sentimental about this historic occasion. I am weepy today and am sure it will only intensify as we move toward Tuesday. It might be the raging hormones or the results of a stressful personal situation - but who cares..... People who know me well aren't surprised that I would be crying over this.

Heading over the pass today toward Sues house. I hope to see most of my family and to meet the newest member Avery.

Have a wonderful day!

God Bless us!

saying goodbye 2008

2009-01-05T09:29:00.000-08:00

and really looking forward to this new year 2009! this is my first day off since the new year and so far I've been catching up on emails and making lists of projects I need to get done this week and lists for longer term goals. so far my list for today reads.....

printer research (4th one in 5 yrs)
kitchen floor
vaccum house
bank
bartells
blog post
tweek resume
monster website
call melinda/sarina re Helene sending us holiday flowers (delayed by snow just a tad)
schedule haircut
take down christmas tree - move to garage
pack away all christmas decs

wait a minute. this was supposed to make me feel better but now I just see a long list of things I need to do today! along with the constant pounding of a hammer from the condo above, I will bid you good day so I can get something accomplished....

back later! I am still trying to pick a good word to focus on for 2009.... that is on my mind today as I work......

OH PS - it snowed here again last night. I was driving down I405 from woodinville to my Kirkland home last night. 35 miles per hour was our speed. white out kind of snowing..... gorgeous but seriously now.
We are so done with it here....

Happy New Year!

family holiday highlights.....

2008-12-29T12:50:00.001-08:00

Sarina treated us to an awesome Hanukkah meal of latkas, falafel, tzaziki & israeli salad. we had mass pita & assorted crackers with a selection of hummus, baba ganaush & taboulleh. I seriously can eat this way every day.... and usually do in the summer. I can't tell you how much I enjoyed learning a bit more about Hanukkah and watching her light the menorah the evening of December 24th......

The next morning Connor and his red & white coller adorned with bells announced Christmas morning.......

Merry Merry times with my kids.......

they say its over....

2008-12-22T09:32:00.000-08:00

last night James, Connor, and I went out for some fun in the snow.....

this last one is taken early Monday. Compare it to yesterdays photo for snowfall reference. Note missing clay pots and buried rose & rosemary shrubs.....

I spoke with Mel last night, they are struggling to find chains for the new car and stopped in Redding CA last night. I haven't heard the report yet today.... gosh I hope they can get through but I am a bit concerned about the Portland area icy conditions.

Winter '08 - Take 3

2008-12-21T14:09:00.000-08:00

it is again snowing in Kirkland. The news said it was over but it surely does not look like it here. I tried to go to work today, but slipped a few times and saw 3 wrecks. I could see they had a team of snow plows going I405 Northbound but southbound had not been done yet. it is just too slick out there. I love my new tires on the snow and am very happy I spent the extra $ on my recent purchase. But ice is different and this girl has her limits for the approx. $50 missed.

back to much more important things.... will you please look after the neighborhood wildlife during this freeze? When I let Connor out this morning I could see bird tracks all over the patio

The birds were so happy, dancing around our back yard so I put out some fresh food and water in the wheel barrow. I then threw out some apple chips for whatever vermit will find them. I love my birds -

James out front talking with neighbor Janice. He was so nice to unbury my car this morning. I am so glad I took these pictures of him. 20 minutes later there was a big ugly pathway shoveled through the snow to the side walk and mail boxes. Extremely nice of someone to do but still not quite as picturesque as below....

and it snows on....... at this point I really hope it lasts until Christmas and so the girls can see some white snow.

Happy Holidays to everyone..... I am off to start a fire, wrap the last of presents and watch a movie. I will take photos of the tree next....

Snowfall - Take 2

2008-12-18T10:24:00.000-08:00

7am and snowing pretty good this morning.... The news shows I405 is a parking lot and parts of 520 are closed.... sorry for picture quality but it was still a little dark

9am front side of home.... no car tracks leaving this parking lot......

3pm feeding the birds and listening to the cars try to drive up 68th as fewer succeed in the ice that covers the eastside...

Ho Ho Holidays......

2008-12-17T10:34:00.000-08:00

It isn't that I don't have anything to share right now......

It is more that I don't have the time to put my thoughts to blog.....

I am going to have my family home for the holidays and I am not ready. Not finished shopping & wrapping, and haven't even begun to do cleaning so panic is beginning to brew....

I did laugh the other night at my pharmacy, I mean my bedside table.....God I am getting old!

wowza.....

2008-12-14T09:15:00.000-08:00

my last weeks have been filled with blisters and backaches, bandaids and ice packs. Being on a time clock and smiling when you don't want to....... aaahhh retail! Now I remember why I switched and took the office route for my career path. I find the drama that surrounds the department extremely exhausting and so far have avoided it well. I just work harder than most and keep too busy to participate...... I liken this temporary job as a 6 week furniture market (trade show). Same clothes, same exhaustion except I can't sit down on furniture to rest BUT I do get to sleep in my own bed and kiss my dog nightly (a big factor)

anyway I hope to catch up on some house cleaning (prep for Christmas visitors), holiday shopping & wrapping, pay some bills & return some long ago phone calls/emails over the next few days..... and I dream of some good old horizontal time to relieve the back/knees

Final thought/question for today.....
why do they store so many bras so close to the ground?
why do customers have the need to go up to a table just organized neatly & rummage through and mess up the piles I just spent an hour stacking?
why do mothers let their children run through racks and pull clothes off hangers?

ok - just can't end that way. I am grateful for the $200 deposit into my account from Macys Inc. that showed up Friday. I am grateful that I am learning the words to a few more christmas carols this season and that I can still find something to laugh about every day!

Ho! Ho! Ho! Hugs!

2008-12-03T15:32:00.001-08:00

Tigger says Happy Holidays! I had such a great time in Oakland (way too short) for Thanksgiving holiday. Lots of updates from the kids down south….

Sarina picked me up Wednesday morning at SFO and I got a chance to really check out the new Toyota Highlander Hybrid they are breaking in (aka battling with the dealer over poor service stage). Sarina also recently got the new title Vice President of Product Development at Bare Escentials. A job that she was doing without a title for some time now (get used to it, that seems to be a trend with growing companies). Anyway, Atta girl, congratulations and enjoy that big office with a window & view of the Oakland Bridge. You deserve it!

I had a really good time meeting Sarina’s mom Helene and stepdad David. As time went on I could see similarities between Helene and myself and it was nice to spend time with her. And David is a riot (actually I think he is Cary’s brother, separated at birth) and can carve a mean turkey. I was very gracious when his Cowboys beat my Seahawks. I have had to be gracious a lot this year though. Here are a few photos from the trip…..

I got a seasonal job at Macy’s Bellevue on Monday and went through orientation yesterday. It was an interested bunch of new employees….. Definitely proving to be an equal opportunity environment. The pick of the litter was an 18ish year old kid that got called out for laughing 3 times (by 2 different mgrs) and disrupting the group. It is amazing to me that this kid comes to a place where people are going to pay him for a service & he can’t even sit through 4 hours training without acting like a kid in the back of history class making fun of the teacher. Like I told Mel, it's not really very hard to be a star new employee when you are compared to this one. Or to the girl that asked a second time about wearing hats to work…… as if they would say yes the second time…. So back to retail…full circle back to my first job at Monkey Wards!

I still don’t have my Christmas tree up yet. My To Do list is growing longer.

Lost son finds way home again……

2008-11-22T08:06:00.000-08:00

James came home the other night and since he brought every piece of technology with him, I think he is planning on staying for a while. He has been in Seattle since late July, escaping quickly once the house flooded. He has enjoyed life as a college dude living with a bunch of other college dudes near the UW campus. But winter is here, hours at Home Depot drastically cut, and the emergence of an ever present girlfriend of a roommate brought on the return. I am most sure it will take some getting used too….. the shoes in the entry way and the dirty clothes & dishes left everywhere….Hmmm? What was that thing I was just writing about? That’s right! Grateful list…. Grateful list….

Welcome home son! Connor and I are happy to see you again!

My customary kick off to holiday decorating is as soon as the dishwasher starts humming after our Thanksgiving dinner….. Since I will be in Oakland for Thanksgiving this year, I have decided to get a little head start here and there….

Much much more home décor to come. I have a Ho! Ho! Bug brewing inside but the internet is going in and out this morning causing a frustrating blogging experience....

I am off to get my new tires, alignment & oil change very much needed. Thank you God for providing for my needs today…….

long time no post

2008-11-21T08:46:00.000-08:00

I am back from my short break. Mostly I was gone because I had absolutely nothing to say. Growing up I remember hearing Baba & mom say "If you don't have anything nice to say, don't say anything at all." I guess I am keeping true to my teachings because I have kind of been in a funk lately. A little depressed over the incoming job rejections and constant barrage of negative economic news. Packed with the knowledge that "This too shall pass" I am taking a break from a lot of the news programs I usually watch and am focusing on the positive.

To a group of friends and me, November is known as Gratitude month. So I have been writing a list of things to be grateful for and getting together with friends to share our experiences, strength and hope for a better day. Getting together and listening to one another, I am reminded that I can work through any of my issues. It also helps me keep my issues in perspective and be constantly grateful for what I have accomplished thus far in my life.

I was certainly grateful for AAA this week. After finishing a meeting at Costco Wednesday I discovered a very flat tire. All those years paying for AAA I finally got to use it for a rescue tire change. And boy am I grateful to my good friend Todd, a self professed car geek who LOVES to do investagative work. I now know what tires to buy and where the best deal in town is for those tires, alignment & minor mechanical work. It is such a guy thing and this single lady is very grateful to have a guy around to keep me from doing something dumb like pay too much for possibly the wrong product......

I am excited to see another new baby in the family. It must be the year of the girls around here and our little Avery Elizabeth is so darling..... I haven't gotten through to sister Sue yet because I think she has not been home very much (would you be home if you could be next door holding a baby?) oh the memory of baby smells is so strong in me..... puts me in a wonderful state of mind...

I have been busy cleaning up the back garden, winterizing the beds and filling all my compost bins to the brim@! I have also been working on a few Christmas craft projects I will begin sharing soon.... I hope to be back later today with a few layouts I have completed over the past several weeks.... here is one for starters....

See you later today or this weekend.... Have a good day!

WOW

2008-11-05T12:09:00.000-08:00

What a great time to live and witness this moment in history. My emotions have really caught me off guard and after last night I need to buy more Kleenex and get some sleep.......

I had the great pleasure to spend the evening watching the results with James & Megan, each voting for the first time. I was really happy to share the night with them and hopefully provided them with some historical perspective. I was born before African Americans even had the right to vote & I am really not that old! I can remember the Civil Rights marches & riots of the 60's. The I have a dream speech & the famous photos from a Hotel balcony are burned forever in my mind. I remember segregation and the fear based ugliness that pervaded our nation at that time.

Yesterday I woke up quite nervous, scared that the polls were wrong, scared that people would not show up to vote, scared of those who perpetuate a fear/hate based mind thought.

Today I am hopeful that our nation will listen to the collective voice that has spoken. We as a nation will no longer let the Good Old Boy network make all the rules. I suspect it will take some time for change to come to certain parts of our country. I suspect that when the next furniture market comes around, the young white kids will still be handing out brochures while young black boys are shining shoes on the street. Change will be slower in some areas but change will come.

Now - if we could only get equal pay for women......

pretend this is friday......

2008-10-26T16:42:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Sarina!!!!! I know I'm a couple of days late, but I had to wait until I got my mojo back. This mornings walk with Connor and the dry sunny day got me going though.... I love you lots!

sunday part one

2008-10-26T13:41:00.000-07:00

I have been working on the house lately leaving little time left over for crafting. Honestly I think I may be in a little creative dry spell. I am sure it won't last long and I am taking this time to learn more about some photoshop features.... just playing around with some grids....

I am heading back out to move more things to the garage..... cleaning out James room since he is here very little anymore (he stays in Seattle with friends). Moving the high school memories to permanant storage in attic; after all he is now a junior at UW.

closing with some photos taken this morning when Connor and I were outside playing.....

simple saturday night

2008-10-19T10:43:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I was playing around with the camera and took photos of my surroundings. These photos are bits and pieces of larger pieces created by my mom. My mom taught tole and canvas painting for many years in our home. So I have been surrounded by art my entire life. Even though I spent hours down with the "paint ladies" my incentive then was to hear the off color jokes the ladies would share. I sure wish now that I would have picked up a brush more often!

I haven't always appreciated the art that has surrounded me but I am looking at it with fresh eyes lately. As I grow in my own creative experience I now can appreciate the love and passion that she enjoyed through her art. Oh, I forgot to mention that she was also self taught but quite good at floral arrangements (both fresh and dried)..........

So last night I had a great Saturday evening complete with a cup of creamy hot chocolate and a chick flick on Hallmark station. I got down to business .....

It was a nice evening... excercising my right to vote in the comfy of my own home.....

Have a great day today! Off to make Stuffed Peppers & Zucchini; another family recipe that I haven't made in years. Explanation: gotta use up that bag of peppers bought at Costco! LOL.

learning something new

2008-10-18T13:46:00.000-07:00

This week I have tried to venture into working with collage and canvas. I took a primed canvas and began layering papers, gesso, paint, rubons, stickers with gel medium and inks.

Many, many many layers later I achieved this = Faith angel - 2008

I enjoy working on canvas and am obviously still experimenting with a lot of different mediums here. I want to add some metal to my next canvas.....

I am off to take pictures for a project I am working on.....

has anyone noticed I like to do this........

to end my sentences with.......

later......

quick post ...

2008-10-13T10:44:00.000-07:00

so why is it that every time you go to Costco for toilet paper & laundry soap (needed HE kind for new washer) you get back home with a car looking like this........

spent way more than my budget allows right now. I did get a few Christmas gifts..... and got some much needed basics. I also now have several packs of meat marinading in the freezer (a big time saver)

Any one checking back to see a follow up to yesterdays post..... Mark is now a new member of Studio Calico and we are getting together Friday to make Christmas cards and catch up!!! Welcome to SC Mark......

call out to Mark

2008-10-12T09:22:00.000-07:00

hey there phone tag brother......

I am calling you out to sign up for the Studio Calico kit I showed you the last time we had lunch..... each month just keeps getting better so you really have to join the monthly membership!

Kind of like the time I talked you into buying the Silhouette when you haven't even started scrapping yet. The one you need to bring over so I can play with it.... JUST like that time. Just do it and do it this month! Just look at the paper that is in this months kit.... you know you have photos of you just made for that chalkboard paper!

and look at these school pics of James.... too funny! The journal says: "You know this is one of those school pictures James will cringe when his wife and family sees" love Mom.

So back to Mark, you know how you want to have everything coordinated for you? They do it for you and it will help you get inspired to start using the stuff you are collecting.....

so just click on the blinkie over to the right >>>>>>>>>>

then leave us all a post so we can celebrate with you!

for the love of dogs.....

2008-10-11T08:55:00.001-07:00

It is a cold one out there today but is dry so Connor & I are going to the dog park later. Little does he know as he sleeps by my side that in a few hours he'll be willingly jumping into the chilly waters of Marymoor Park. But first the Texas vs Oklahoma game...... I know I am an odd Duck, I have always liked college football. But here are some Connor pictures - I love this guy!!!

The photo on the Rescue Group website.... Now if you saw this photo wouldn't you go see him? His brothers and sisters were just as cute but they were way too wiggly and yappy. I really liked how he sat in the middle of the huge crated area and looked up at me. He was patient and then to seal the deal when I picked him up he snuggled. Best of both worlds.....

See you later - Go Hug your dog......

2 hallelujahs & a LOL

2008-10-10T07:30:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I was the happy recipient of this big beautiful Energy Star front load baby.....

It may be white on the outside but inside she is all green! I was a happy lady watching the action of a front load for the first time. Listen to me, I'm like the female version of a guy and his car. But I'll never admit to petting the top as we bonded..... Back to the point, my kids gave me this beauty for my birthday this year. I do have the coolest kids, pretty thoughtful and nurturing of their Mom. Thank you Mel(inda), Sarina & James!

Right as the evening news started I heard a familiar clunk at my door. Already in splendor over the hum of a washer I think I actually ran to the door.....

I think Connor knows he'll be spending a lot of time in the office this weekend!

Finally I was so rolling in bed in laughter over the SNL Weekend update Thursday.... Does anybody out there know how to insert UTube videos onto Blogger sites??? Please please email me so I can link last nights episode.... The economist just had me rolling. They need to FIX it! Go Fix it! Just FIX it!

Oh Baby it is so cold outside it calls for a night of scrapping by the fire! Have a great weekend everyone!

Using the voice God gave me....

2008-10-08T17:52:00.000-07:00

When Mel lived in Seattle and worked at Brooks in Bothell she would drop off Katie to spend the days with me. So we saw each other daily and had plenty of time for conversation. We occasionally had moments with relationship overload but now that she has moved to Oakland I really miss our conversations about social issues. Between the two of us we could find a variety of causes to discuss. Good thing I’m blogging now because all this stuff keeps rattling around in my old noggin……

Did you know that 1 of 2 men and 1 of 3 women in the US will be diagnosed with some form of cancer?

I hope you all got to see the fantastic show recently broadcast on 3 networks known as Stand up to Cancer. I received an email update and went on the website and started checking out what has happened since the show. With Barack encouraging us all to get involved fueled by my disappointment with the current administration & congress I went directly to the tab “get involved” and found email congress. I figure that if I am going to complain about congress for not supporting issues I find important, then I better make sure they know what I want first. By entering in my full zip code, it directed me to the appropriate email addresses for my area. It also supplied a sample letter format that you could fully edit to make personal. Most organizations I support have this feature and I have used it often for environmental issues (WE). So I sent my 3 out yesterday and have only received a reply from one of my Senators so far. I am looking forward to their reply to see what they have done to support the cause of finding a cure for cancer. If anyone is interested in the cause I have provided a link below. Play around on the site as I have learned a lot from it…..

find site here

Returning full circle and back to Mel. I will leave you with a layout done of their first home bought. They have it decorated very Pottery Barn or Restoration Hardware style….. Gorgeous!

Thanks for reading.....

2008-10-08T14:04:00.001-07:00

What do you do when you have so many blog post ideas bouncing around in your head that you don't know where to start? Will it be cancer, small houses, Peace Corp or green guide..... I could be a walking public service announcement today. so much to say - so little time..... back later when one of these topics wins the prize.

a few photos of mom

2008-10-05T19:04:00.000-07:00

These 2 photos were in the stack my sister gave me a few weeks ago. I love getting new old photos to play with... first one is of mom when she was 5 years old and on her toes. She was a dancer with the Portland city Ballet until she broke her leg playing on the stairs.... there are some real doozies around with her in some pretty interesting costumes. (calling all jpegs from relatives)

This next one is a photo of mom with one of her best friends Helen Maul. Helen and mom were the garden club mavens in Ridgefield, taking care of the towns gardens & pots for years. I love that mom is in her "Paint Sweater". Here they are setting up for the yearly garden club plant sale.

My heart and prayers go out to Helen right now as she battles colon cancer. I have so many happy memories of her. She was way beyond cool when I was growing up and I really love her. I even planted a vine maple in my back yard when I first moved in "just like Helens".

do as I say not as I do

2008-10-01T07:51:00.001-07:00

I always thought mammograms were so scary and yukky that I convinced myself to ignore the standard practise of annual screenings. I had one in my late 30's so I knew what to expect and didn't much like it. I visited my family practitioner yearly and would always get that little referral slip and I would tuck it in my day timer and try hard not to think about it again......skip ahead 14 years (yeah yeah save your lectures, just go get a mammogram). But last December my Dr. felt something that bugged her on my left breast and urged me to get a mammogram. Something in our conversation told me to do it and I made the appt the following day. There starts my roller coaster ride marking my 50th year. A winter filled with weekly trips to the Breast Center at Evergreen Hospital for mammograms, ultrasounds & MRI's. During one of these early visits they found another suspicious lump on the right side. WOO HOO - I got to learn the term Bi Lateral! After the battery of tests, the decision was made to surgically remove and biopsy both sides. You see, since I had no prior mammograms to compare to, they just couldn't be sure if these were my normal changes or something to worry about. My story has a happy ending and I am not afraid of getting mammograms any more. They aren't fun but they are nothing compared to the other tests & I want to believe that most Breast centers are filled with the same care taking angels of empathy that took care of me. So do as I say not as I do: please have regular mammograms. Key word - Regular.

This morning Dr. Susan Love (Avon Foundation) is launching a new campaign called Army of Women. Dr Love is creating a network of women across America for the purpose she explains below:

"To recruit one million healthy women of every age and ethnicity, including breast cancer survivors and women at high-risk for the disease, to partner with breast cancer researchers and directly participate in the research that will eradicate breast cancer once and for all."

"To challenge the scientific community to expand its current focus to include breast cancer prevention research conducted on healthy women."

You can read more about this movement and how you can get involved here:

http://www.armyofwomen.org/

I have joined cause and hope you do to. How incredible would it be to have a tiny little hand in the cause by joining the Army to find a Cure for Cancer.

We have to do this..... Find a Cure......We have to do it for our little ones.

We have to do it for little Nora who we welcomed to our family this week......

My brothers 3rd grandchild and first little girl..... so very pretty.

I WANT ONE aka "ME TOO"

2008-09-30T09:34:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Sister Sue!

MY 10 favorite memories about my OLDER sister Sue:

1. Going for rides on the back of the Honda - I think I fell off once didn't I?

2. Spending hours in your room at night - having you put my hair up in those old hard brush curlers. The hairdryer cap & hose thing, & the combing, ratting, styling DO's we would create.

3. Listening to your music with you and I still think you sound just like Diana Ross.

4. Crashing over the garbage can with the car at the hamburger joint/putt putt golf place (what is the name of it?)

5. Watching you at Lakeshore swim club. You and the older girls in the corner, smearing cocoa butter and baby oil and acting so cool. I couldn't wait to be that age.....

6. The water fights you would get in with Dad. The time you brought the hose into the back door to spray Dad. I remember these as pretty wicked. I loved it - Mom didn't.

7. All of the summer pool parties and family times we had when we both lived in Ridgefield. Nobody was safe from being thrown into the pool. The only chance that one might have of escape is the "No, I've got my good watch on!"

8. I loved your Ridgefield home with the Atrium. It was so big and spacious and beautiful. I loved the HUGE Christmas trees you had each year.

9. The watermelon seed spitting contests we had in the front. How on earth can you spit so far?

10. You helping me when I had my first knee surgery. You were a real blessing to me then just as you are to me now.

I love you sister - Happy Birthday!

look at the size of that

2008-09-29T16:49:00.000-07:00

I am so very blessed to live in this part of the world. Yes I have found incredible beauty in my travels but coming home is still pretty darn special. Washington state may have its cloudy days and its drizzly rain, but it holds such beauty as a result. Really, look at the size of this tree! That is me leaning up to this monster on the Trout Lake Hike.

Its has been a crazy day and I have to get ready for company but I will see you tomorrow with something really special.......

That lovin feeling....

2008-09-27T16:00:00.001-07:00

Absolutely Drooling over Studio Calico September kit (I know I'm a bit behind)...... I can hardly wait to use these papers with the Heidi Swapp transparencies and the vintage page. Hot things? too many to count! Check back later this week for some layouts using this product.

I would have to say that the Studio Calico gallery and monthly kits have had the most influence on my scrapbooking style this year. I love that they include a stamp set and an alphabet pack in each kit. Tonight @ 9pm Pacific the October kit is available and you can find the link to Studio Calico in the right column.

good night guys.......

evolution of Katie 2

2008-09-27T10:29:00.000-07:00

OMGoodness see Katie grow and grow and grow

oops maybe she needs to lay off the treats. Those last 2 photos are a year apart. BUT I am going to practise being a non-intrusive grandma and will not say a word. Leave it to the post anyway right? LOL.

Sorry to hear that Paul Newman passed yesterday of lung cancer. My favorite PN movie is "Cool Hand Luke" and I admired him for his great service to others. Let's all go out and buy some Newman products in honor of "The Man"

I am taking my Connor to the dog park then come home to do some house cleaning......

see you later this weekend.... lots of ideas....

leaning left

2008-09-26T11:21:00.000-07:00

Even James has leaned left and is supporting Borack Obama this November. It will also be his first time voting for a United States President!

just a little politics

2008-09-25T09:04:00.000-07:00

Preface: The last Democrat I voted for was Jimmy Carter. That's right- a long time Red Girl.

When I start beating myself for poor judgement or behavior I am going to think of John McCain. I'm sure it will whip me into proper perspective quickly. What is this man thinking? He wants to suspend his campaign and tomorrows debate and return to Washington to fix the current crises. How he is going to achieve this I don't know since he isn't on the committee and will not be in on the meetings.

I am certainly not an expert on politics but it seems to me that everytime Obama gains momentum in the polls McCain does something quite radical to gain attention. I can't keep track of the strange campaign decisions the Republicans have made. McCains advisors should quit politics and slink away. McCain deserves the blame for listening to them.

America has to make a decision in 40 days on who is going to lead us through this troubled time. A lot of people use the debates to decide and I have a message for McCain:

"The world does not stop because we are in a current financial crises; and my President better be able to handle more than one thing at a time. Get to Mississippi and show America your stuff. Stop with the "no news is good news" mentality. America deserves to hear what you AND PALIN propose to do in detail. If you are not prepared to discuss details, then get out of the way and let Obama continue to lead America's movement of change."

There, I feel much better now.....

last of summer

2008-09-21T20:19:00.000-07:00

Connor and I went to Ellensburg to visit Sue & Cary last week. It was a great weekend and very beautiful drive up over the pass. You can feel in the air the changing of seasons here now and I suppose my next trip over the pass will be a rainy or snowy one. We had a quick lunch. took the dogs for a walk and then I climbed aboard this thing.

Not by myself have you, but with my brother in law. We were down the road on our way to Robinson canyon before I realized my camera was left behind. I had such a blast on this thing except for the part when Cary told me about the rattlesnakes. Me in my pretty city girl sandles with painted toes hanging out there like bright beakons. Oh and these guys around here don't wear helmets.... No public service announcement here!!! After I safely made it back - I took a second to fix my hair before Sue took Connor and I for a drive around Ellensburg to show me the area. Again, no camera and boy was there some good photo ops! Our trip home was an awesome ride into the sunset listening to U2 Its a Beautiful Day crossing back over the pass.....

I did come home with a few more photos from Sue and the Family archive. One of my graduation photos was in the mix..... here you go - me at 17

Have a great day everybody...... Miss T

pickle makin proof

2008-09-16T10:13:00.000-07:00

Look! Sarina sent me some proof of our recent pickle making session in Oakland! Her nummy pics from a nummy Nikon D40.

I'll be back later with a post about my "OH so Fun weekend!" Somebody needs to remind me I'm not 30 any more......

Katie 1, Dad & Home

2008-09-12T15:59:00.000-07:00

This is a rare photo of Katie 1 - my Dads best buddy. I think this picture perfectly reflects their relationship; pretty much inseperable. She was an awesome dog that after dads passing, became Mels companion. This photo also brings back many memories of sitting on lawn chairs in front of the garage doing such things as snap beans, gather flowers to dry, eat ice cream, have watermelon seed spitting contests, or to just take in the country smells while visiting with family or friends. I can close my eyes and see with clear memory that view, even as it changed over the years and homes would replace fields of tall grass. When James was a baby and I was a stay at home princess, we would go down to Ridgefield (where I grew up) as soon as Mel got done with her softball season. We would enjoy a couple of weeks during August having fun with Grandma & Grandpa. Days would be filled with canning pickles & tomatoes, swimming, helping in the garden, and visiting with friends. It was a magical time with the kids enjoying such simple pleasures, so different than our experience in Kirkland. These days have supplied me with my favorite Mom memories too. I really did enjoy learning about canning produce and I became a sponge for her gardening knowledge. Any way happy happy happy days....

August & September remain my favorite time of year and I spend a lot of time here........

Note the cucumber price for last year. This year I paid $1.99 a pound. That's right. Double.

I love the colorful hand written signs that you just don't see in grocery chains anymore. What a shame. Love the outdoor aspect of this place too. Just Love everything about it and have been shopping here since James was a toddler and would push his own mini cart around.

And the tradition I am trying hard to pass on is ...........

This batch is now gone and boy were they good, crisp and HOT! I hope this years turn out as good.....

When I was down visiting Mel and Sarina last month, we roamed Oakland/Berkeley in order to stock up on canning equipment and we made their first batch of Gma's pickles. Me the usual photo bug was to into teaching (experiencing the moment) and forgot about the great photo opportunity. oh well.... it was still a Perfect day with the girls......

anatomy of a layout

2008-09-09T12:19:00.000-07:00

I like to work on layouts over time vs. at one sitting and I get great pleasure from the slow thoughtful evolution of the work. For me scrapbooking is a creative outlet first documentation for future generations second. So when I start a layout it begins with a photo........

I always start with a photo or photos and a decision of what the layout message will be. Whether my purpose is to capture a moment in time or to encourage introspection. A Basic Story.....

I next select cardstock & patterned papers which help determine the color scheme. This can take some time and I usually set everything on a table and just let them be a while. I like to come back to it several times to see it with fresh eyes while I select the remaining elements. I go through my stash by different categories i.e. journal cards, flowers, ribbons or tapes, metal, chipboard, words, alphabets and keep gathering everything on the table......

The process of positioning elements on my layout is purely playing around until I like it. (I use repositionable tape) I edit the large stash compiled and simply move things around until I am happy with the composition. I work a title into the design while adding embellishments & plan my journal element. Sometimes I start a layout with specific journaling in mind but most often it developes over time.

Remember, this is mostly for pleasure so I just keep going until I get the "I like it" feeling. I usually display it a few days just in case I find one last little detail to add ........

weekend pleasures

2008-09-08T17:53:00.000-07:00

WooHoo! I made 50 holiday cards for our servicemen & servicewomen. This awesome group supports the troops by collecting cards and sending them to our servicemen. You can read more and hopefully get involved here http://cardsforheroes.org/

I read about it over at Stephanie Howells blog last Friday and got inspired to do something. I have left the cards inside blank so that they can use them this Christmas. Using repositionable tape (kokuyo) I placed a little note of appreciation and holiday greeting with instructions about the card re-use on the inside. I want to get them in the mail soon so they have plenty of time to receive and then send back out this Christmas.

Connor enjoys the summer morning while I have coffee and work at the dining table on cards & layout. I enjoy every last bit of warm weather and know that soon we will not be able to leave the back door open.

After completing the cards I pulled out an old photo of my mom & friends in hawaii. I believe it was the last trip she took. I used a lot of items from my current favorite, Studio Calico. The paper and rubon flowers really reminds me of Mom.

Along with this wonderful creative way to spend a pretty weekend, I got more of the garage cleaned out. no photos needed of that one.....

friends big day

2008-09-08T12:23:00.000-07:00

Sharing some photos from D & Scotty's wedding. Actually this was in late July, but it was so pretty I still want to share. The gardens were so inspiring and it was so fun just to wander around the grounds and take pictures of the unexpected.

It was a multi hanky affair, especially when the doves circled overhead while they were kissing and Scotty just gushing over his bride. The way he looks at her..... Seriously now, can we clone him?

my weekend for the Warriors!

2008-09-06T09:25:00.000-07:00

I am spending a large part of the weekend making holiday cards for our servicemen. I'd take pics of my progress IF my son would bring back my camera!!! Be back soon with results.....

Last but certainly not least....

2008-09-03T13:13:00.000-07:00

Meet my daughter, Melinda. I love this child and really love the lady she has become. She has moved to the Bay area and I miss the daily contact we used to have. I used to watch her dog Katie during the day when she worked at Brooks. I suppose she is now enjoying her independance since moving south and joining the North Face team. It is so funny how things turn out. My work required me to travel to Asia to work with Furniture factories. Her work in product development has required her to also travel (much more than me) overseas. It is quite a feeling to share mutual life experiences like staying the same hotel in mainland China; and seeing the nighttime sights of Hong Kong from the Peak. Those travels were really amazing to me when I did it, but it's something else when you daughter begins to share those years later. I am incredibly proud of her not only for her career accomplishments, but for her heart and soul.

Today I opened my birthday card she sent and I melted into a weepy mess, AGAIN. Pretty card, on the cover it says.... "I know a woman of strength and beauty. I have watched her for years." CHOKE. She has a funny knack of doing that. sending me cards and saying things that I need to hear at that moment. See right now I'm not feeling strong or beautiful, but stressed out and old & haggard. But this card reminds me that these feelings will pass and I will soon return to my old confident, faithful self. FAITH. It's my word of the year. I should be better at keeping it! I even have reminders to look at everyday! Time for a good dose of Pastor Mike at OCC for encouragement too!

OK this has been a rambling disjointed post. I am a better writer than this, Really I am! I am heading off to listen to this weeks sermon on http://www.occ.org/about/services.asp since I missed church - shhhh don't tell anyone! See you all later!

PS - yes I made the faith banner with Jenni Bowlin product. Love that scrapbooking line...

Dog Days of August

2008-08-28T06:16:00.000-07:00

Road washed out north of Index, Stevens Pass cutting us off from the Troublesome Creek Trail and campground. So many memories of that part of the woods....

swimming at Marymoor park to stay cool. "anybody got a ball?"

lazy days lounging in the back yard. Check out the Hydrangea!

I love him to bits -tj

Meet the Son

2008-08-27T11:42:00.000-07:00

Here is a digital LO of my son James HS graduation held at Qwest Field, Home of the Seattle Seahawks. The only time I've been in this stadium. Don't you feel sorry for me and want to take me to a football game? James is now a junior & entering the Chemical Engineering program at the University of Washington. (go Dawgs!) Lord I wish this school thing would end. I have figured it out that I have had at least one child in school for the past 26 years and counting. That is more than half my life! So please excuse me but I am counting my days...

I love him to bits - tj

I heart Washington

2008-08-26T17:18:00.000-07:00

ok I really don't know what I'm doing here. I have been trying to insert albums so I can create categories like scrapbook layouts, my recipes, etc. To no avail and I am frustrated. So I am posting a layout I have done recently. The journaling reads: "I love weekends up on Stevens Pass, hiking and camping in summer. One of my favorite hikes is to Trout Lake. Hiking through deep woods, crossing over streams, hugging the huge old growth, passing over recent landslides, and finally to the large flat lake. It was a short hike packed full of Beauty.

Who moved my cheese?

2008-08-26T13:44:00.000-07:00

I love this book by Spencer Johnson - I think of it often these days. You see, someone has moved my cheese recently and now I am looking for a new source. Not like I couldn't see it coming. The furniture industry has been experienceing a slow decline over the past several years and when the economy started to get shakey, it took a real dive. Retailers, Importers & Manufacturers are being forced to close at a sad pace. I have been fortunate to represent manufacturers to the wholesale clubs for the past 15 years, but like Borack says "Its time for a change." The past 4 years I have had my own business representing several furniture manufacturers. While working from home holds so many benefits it does not come without its drawbacks. I look forward to new oppotunities that include collaboration with others (aka: someone to talk to). Don't get me wrong, Connor (pictured in my banner) is there to listen to me throughout the day. But I'd like more feedback than the occassional ball rolling in my direction, begging to get thrown.

So time for a change - 2008.

getting started

2008-08-25T16:51:00.000-07:00

I'm writing in my office, with my back door open so I can hear the rain & thunder coming overhead. With CNN & and the Democratic Convention in the background, I begin to explore the blog world. I feel really safe right now because I haven't told anyone I'm doing this yet. Thought maybe I'd get in the writing flow before I spill the beans to friends & family.

So I started a facebook page recently thinking that was going to be a great way to stay up with my kids. My daughter lives in the Bay area and so I thought a blog of some sort would allow her to keep up with what Mom is doing. What I did not anticipate is that my kids might not want to be a facebook "friend" because they don't want me on their site! Hello Terri! Time to climb out from under that rock. At least I was smart enough to anticipate this from my 19 year old son, and didn't even try to go there.....

So I will try this Blog route for a while. WOW lots of thunder now.... I have got to go outside and find the lightning.... my gardens are so loving this rain!!!

jumping into blog world!

2008-08-25T15:52:00.000-07:00

my first blog entry.... setting things up and getting a start. I'm going to play with the format a bit then be back. lol. PSYCHE!