Just Another Girl's Blog

Mosaic Monday

2011-10-17T07:05:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite things to do in the fall is take a drive and check out the fall colors near Palisades Lake.

It's only about 40 minutes from our home so we can decide on the 'spur of the moment'. . . jump in the car and be there
in just over a half hour!

Every year it looks a little different from the last. Sometimes the reds are vibrant and other years another color may be dominant.

One thing is certain the scenery is never disappointing,

it's always beautiful.

http://dearlittleredhouse.blogspot.com/2011/10/mosaic-monday-autumn-at-natirar.html

London Bridge did FALL down. . . .Outdoor Wednesday #137

2011-08-23T16:02:00.000-07:00

This is a photo taken of London Bridge in its former

glory. . .in London

And this is the reconstructed

LONDON BRIDGE

in Lake Havasu, Arizona as it is today!

Still beautiful but the background is not quite

19th Century London!

As we walked across the bridge I had a

feeling for some of it's former majesty and beauty. . .

Join us for Outdoor Wednesday

by linking below

Hope you have a wonderful Wednesday!

http://asoutherndaydreamer.blogspot.com/

Check out the NEW button on Common Ground's Blog

2011-07-28T06:04:00.000-07:00

Click on the link below and read all about

the fun new PARTY she is going to feature. . . .

It is especially appealing for those of us out in

BLOG LAND

that are a little 'Design challenged'

and could use a second opinion. . .

Anyway click below and read all about it, sounds fun!

http://commonground-debrasvintagedesigns.blogspot.com/2011/07/new-feature-at-common-ground-how-about.html

Outdoor Wednesday. . .Flower Beds!

2011-07-05T19:30:00.000-07:00

I'm not sure about these 'Flower Beds'

for the front yard!

But if you had lots of garden space in the backyard

and wanted

something a little whimsical. . .

Maybe?

Join in for

OUTDOOR WEDNESDAY

by clicking below!

http://asoutherndaydreamer.blogspot.com/2011/07/76-outdoor-wednesday-130.html

Outdoor Wednesday. . .Yard and Garden Art

2011-05-03T13:13:00.000-07:00

A child's rocking chair painted with bright yellow sunflowers!

How about this rusty old push lawnmower spilling over

with trailing plants!

Loved this bright colored container

packed with fun plants!

This was so cool, a 'living' table, complete

with dinner and stem ware!

A rustic wooden chair made into a planter. . .

A simple garden shelf painted in a bright color

to house and display pots and plants.

Some clever artist added a little extra 'bling'

to this old wheel giving it a bit more character!

A runaway shopping cart sprayed bright red

add some moss and plants, taaadaaa. . .garden art!

This seems to be a popular trend this season, 'yard critters'

made from rock and metal!

These photos were taken at Edwards in Boise, Idaho!

Hope you enjoyed the tour, thanks for coming along. . .

Join in by clicking on the link below

http://asoutherndaydreamer.blogspot.com/2011/05/54-outdoor-wednesday-121.html

The Royals. . .

2011-04-30T05:53:00.000-07:00

The Royal Couple

The adorable kids. . .of the Royal wedding party

The tiny Waistline!

These photos are re blogged from various photographers and shared by
umla

University Greenhouses. . . .Mosaic Monday

2011-04-18T06:25:00.000-07:00

The weather here is still totally 'upside down'!

We are so ready for sunshine

and no WIND. . .

To get our 'garden fix', my

'gardening friends' and I visited the

College Greenhouses.

It is amazing what the students accomplish.

They do most of the work, designing

and even market some of their plants!

It got us really syked, now if mother nature

will just cooperate!

Join us for Mosaic Monday

http://dearlittleredhouse.blogspot.com/2011/04/mosaic-monday-forsythia.html

Mosaic Monday. . .Cake attack!

2011-03-27T18:37:00.000-07:00

I love Weddings!!!

They are usually such Happy occasions. . .

I was honored to make this lovely Bride's bouquet,

and the boutonniere for the handsome groom!

I'm very prejudice of course

but they are such a beautiful couple!

I also got to sample the cake (a surprise sample).

Let's just say someone better watch their back

cause 'paybacks' can be ugly!

It's a good thing I'm such a good sport, NOT.

Here I am just minding my own business

enjoying all the festivities. . .

When suddenly I was attacked from behind!

(he seems to be really enjoying this prank)

Enjoy all the Monday Mosaics

by clicking below

http://dearlittleredhouse.blogspot.com/2011/03/mosaic-monday-memories.html

Tulip Heaven. . .Outdoor Wednesday

2011-03-08T05:58:00.000-08:00

Hubby sent these pictures the other day!
I think he was trying to cheer me up,

cause we still have at least a foot of snow on the ground!

These photos were taken of the tulip farms

in the Netherlands in May!

B E A U T I F U L
(The photos were sent to us via email, so I'm not sure who to credit for them)

Over 3 billion tulips are grown each year.

They harvest and ship about 2/3 of the crop,
mostly to the US and Germany.

Then they gather the bulbs to sell.

What a sight. . .
Join Susan at A Southern Daydreamer
for Outdoor Wednesday
http://asoutherndaydreamer.blogspot.com/2011/03/39-outdoor-wednesday-113.html

HeLp My Paperwhites are 'PICKLED'. . .MET MONDAY

2011-01-28T07:17:00.000-08:00

It's been quite a looong winter, it started very early!
I'm not complaining because we need the moisture.

But, "just sayin"

After the holidays, and one month into the New Year

I'm sorta over winter!

On a trip to a local nursery during the holidays,

I picked up some Paperwhite bulbs, thinking they would make a

great gift for a friend that loves gardening!

Long story short,

I put them away and

just found them a few weeks ago, oops!

(Anyone else hide things from yourself?)

Not wanting them to rot and be wasted, I decided to start them.

Besides it might be therapeutic to try

some indoor gardening. . .

The lady at the nursery said they didn't need to be planted in soil,

just stick them in a container. . .

Add some pebbles and water and put them

in a semi-dark room for a week or so!

(sounds easy enough, I can do this)

And then here's the magic elixir. . .She told me as soon as the bulb has shoots growing that are about

3-4 inches long, mix 1 part alcohol and 7 parts water. . .

( They don't like beer or wine, it's too sugary. They like the hard stuff)

And this little cocktail is supposed to keep

the Paperwhites from gettin all tall and spindly!

Well I musta bought some 'light weights'

because mine got all 'tipsy' and fallin outta the vase!

They do have happy little faces though!!!!

Has anyone ever heard of this before?

Join us for 'Met' Monday

by linking below

http://betweennapsontheporch.blogspot.com/2011/01/removing-wallpaper-with-wagner-welcome.html

Outdoor Wednesday. . .Weekend in the Mountains

2011-01-20T05:51:00.000-08:00

Last weekend we packed up warm clothes and

way too much food and took off for the mountains!

(snow covered mountains)

Lazy Triple Creek Lodge
Sometimes the only way to get to this lodge in the winter

is by snow cat.

We lucked out and were able to drive right to the

back porch!

This was the view out the front window. . .snow

covered hills as far as the eye could see!

I spent most of the time indoors, cause I'm kind of

a cold weather

'PANSY' !

Something for everyone. . .

We even celebrated a birthday!

Have you noticed how little kids don't get as cold

as grownups. They can stay outside in freezing cold

and it doesn't even seem to faze them, oh not me. . .

I thought the fire inside was wonderful!

The dinning area was big enough to seat

practically the whole clan. . .

The kitchen was a commercial kitchen, equipped

with double ovens and fridges. A gas

range and large commercial sized pots and pans.

It even had 2 dishwashers so we could keep up with all the dishes

for 20+ people.

This is a view of the great room from the upstairs loft.

We had a fire burning most all the time, so it was always really

cozy down there!

There were 9 bedrooms and 10 bathrooms. . .plenty of

room for people to crash at the end of the day!

It was a lot of work hauling everything up there

for the weekend!

But at the end of the day!

(or I should say, at the end of the weekend)

It was nice to spend some uninterrupted family time!

Very grateful for our 'mountain hiatus' . . .

Link up to

OUTDOOR WEDNESDAY

http://asoutherndaydreamer.blogspot.com/

RUFFLES AND LACE. . .

2011-01-13T21:13:00.000-08:00

I'm not sure which elements I love most about

these photographs!

There is something so appealing about

tone on tone. . .I am always drawn to it!

The detail of the lace and ruffles, and more ruffles

well, just soooo feminine!

And the pearls, flowers, and ribbon

(in a word)

GLAMOROUS

It would be so fun to try one of these

beauties on!

However. . .there is absolutely no way I

could ever fit in one of those tiny little waistlines!!!

They are really teeny tiny. . .

Just

Beautiful
though. . .

Don't you think???
Join in the fun
Mosaic Monday
click on the link below
http://dearlittleredhouse.blogspot.com/

(The photos in this collage were reblogged)

with permission!

Adding Scarf Bling. . .Met Monday

2011-01-10T18:44:00.000-08:00

I had a plain scarf that needed just a little bling!

I found some fabric hearts/flowers and pearls

at Hobby Lobby

I attached the fabric and pearls with fabric glue

and reinforced with some stitching.

Finished it off with a few heart buttons and let

the glue set up for a couple hours. . .

Here is the finished scarf. . .fun and easy way

to add some bling!

Below is the link to all of today's creative entries

ttp://betweennapsontheporch.blogspot.com/

Out With The Old. . .In With The New!!!

2011-01-04T09:45:00.000-08:00

What happened to 2010?

It disappeared when I wasn't looking. . .

The NEW YEAR has taken off already

at 'mock speed' !!!

Are you ready?

(pictures from the web)

Christmas-2010 Mosaic Monday

2010-12-25T21:04:00.000-08:00

I hope everyone had an enjoyable Christmas with

family and friends. . .

I'm not quite sure how to act now that I can get in bed

before midnight. . .and sleep in until 7:00 a.m.!

Maybe the dark circles under my eyes will go away.

There is so much to do in preparation that I

almost let the stress of it all over shadow the spirit

of the holiday season!

I had to take a deep breath and take the time to reflect

on the 'reason for the season'!

And vow to be better organized next year. . .

Join us for Mosaic Monday!

http://dearlittleredhouse.blogspot.com/

Outdoor Wednesday and the Magic of Christmas Lights

2010-12-03T21:41:00.000-08:00

Magical Star!
Doesn't this street look so romantic, with it's white

Christmas lights and snow covered walkway?

I liked this idea so much I tried replicating. . .

Mine didn't turn out quite like this but

I tried !

White lights and ribbon, snowflakes, clear bulbs

so pretty!

Who can ignore the magic of trees all wrapped in lights

and a carpet of fresh snow!

(I hope you enjoyed these images of Christmas lights captured by various photographers)
Join us for the 100th Outdoor Wednesday

hosted by

A Southern Daydreamer

Click on Susan's blog on my sidebar!

Fun and Unusual Christmas Table Decor. . .

2010-11-30T20:13:00.001-08:00

This first table isn't necessarily Christmas but can't you just

imagine, how it could be transformed into a beautiful

Holiday dining experience!

A very 'modern' twist very simple but lots of pizazz!

A more 'country/rustic' center piece you can't go wrong with pine and poinsettias!

Very chic yet simple, this would be very stunning as

the center of attraction. . .for a Holiday table!

This table shouts elegance!

Beautiful, traditional Christmas colors but don't you love the impact!

These are a few of the ideas I have collected from various

holiday magazines and photos!

I hope you get some inspiration for your Christmas Tablescaping

Join us for

Tablescape Thursday

hosted by

Between Naps on the Porch

Click on her blog on the side bar!

OUTDOOR WEDNESDAY. . .GONE SOUTH!

2010-11-09T21:08:00.000-08:00

Several weeks ago I heard 'tapping' on the window.

When I raised the shade this little bird was looking in at me. . .

Although I'm pretty sure it was just admiring its own reflection in the glass!

I ran for the camera thinking it would be gone by the

time I got back. . .

But it just sat on the windowsill and let me snap pictures, like it

was enjoying our 'photo session'!

It came back several times afterwards, before the

SNOW STORM we had yesterday!

This same view out the window is white today!

I really don't know if 'it' was a 'he' or a 'she' bird.

By now my little friend has gone south, at least I hope so anyway!

(I think it's a Sparrow Hawk, if anyone knows I would love to know for sure).

Join us for OUTDOOR WEDNESDAY

http://asoutherndaydreamer.blogspot.com/2010/11/1110-outdoor-wednesday-96.html

hosted by A SouthernDayDreamer

Sad little Witch. . .

2010-11-01T17:54:00.000-07:00

Everyone is smiling but the little witch in the pink dress!
She was sad because she didn't have any
treats in her bucket yet. . .
Well that all changed shortly after the picture was taken.
The clown is almost 9 months 'preggo',
you certainly can't tell in this picture though!

Fall Floral Designs. . . .

2010-10-26T13:33:00.000-07:00

I just finished a fall floral order for a client, so fun!

I love fall colors. . .

But now I'm feeling like I should have done pine

bough and holly!

We skipped from beautiful fall temperatures

to 'freeze your tush off weather' today!

Not quite ready for this. . .

I've been admiring the fall colors on the trees behind our house

but today the poor trees are almost 'naked'!

Join us for 'show and tell Friday'

by clicking on the link below

http://romantichome.blogspot.com/2010/10/show-and-tell-friday_28.html

Mosaic Monday. . .Create a Vision for yourself!

2010-10-17T18:14:00.000-07:00

Create a vision of yourself!

An inspiration for motivation. . .

Don't live a moment longer without creating

A VISION

of who you want to be!

Head on over to 'Mary's place' for

Mosaic Monday. . .

http://dearlittleredhouse.blogspot.com/2010/10/mosaic-monday-amen-for-autumn.html

Don't live on the 'Someday Island'. . .Mosaic Monday

2010-10-11T11:12:00.000-07:00

Live like you are dying!

I don't want to live on the 'Someday Island'. . .but often I do!

Someday I'm going to get organized,

Someday I'm going to make that appointment,

Someday I'm going to tell someone how much

they really mean to me,

SOMEDAY!

Don't leave anything to chance,

live as though it might be your last day!

Join us for Mosaic Monday
by clicking on Mary's link below
http://dearlittleredhouse.blogspot.com/2010/10/mosaic-monday-adamantine-mantel-clock.html

Fall . . .2010. . .and 'Met Monday'

2010-10-04T09:25:00.000-07:00

Time for fall decor, can I just say, "I love fall colors"!

This rusted urn was filled with summer annuals

but they were pretty well spent, so time for a metamorphosis!

It now sits by our front door and is happy to be home to

some faux bounties of harvest!

Join Met Monday by clicking below for all the entries

http://betweennapsontheporch.blogspot.com/2010/10/welcome-to-90th-metamorphosis-monday-3.html

Farewell September. . .Outdoor Wednesday!

2010-09-28T20:20:00.000-07:00

From dewy lanes at morning

The grapes' sweet odors rise;

At noon the roads all flutter

With yellow butterflies.

By all these lovely tokens

September days are here,

With summer's best of weather,

And autumn's best of cheer.

Excerpt from Poem

Helen Hunt Jackson

A dream piece of real estate, all dressed in fall colors!

I can close my eyes and imagine living

right next to this river!

Oh if you look real close you can see it,

nestled in the trees. . .next to the river. . .and protected by the mountains,
My dream !

We are enjoying Autumn here in the Rocky Mountains,

amazing colors,

unusually warm temperatures,

cool nights,

and the 'harvest moon' has been spectacular!

Join us for

Outdoor Wednesday

hosted by

A Southern Daydreamer

(her 90th post. . .applause)

http://asoutherndaydreamer.blogspot.com/2010/09/929-outdoor-wednesday-90.html

Outdoor Wednesday. . .Horticulture Heaven

2010-08-31T19:56:00.000-07:00

Welcome to our University's Garden. . .

Beautiful terracotta pots, spilling over with annuals make the walkways

interesting and colorful!

This is just one of the water features. . .

The 'Cottage Garden' with it's white picket fence and porch swing is a favorite

spot to sit and enjoy the view!

Above is the newest design in the garden, it is almost completed

and it is beautiful!

Every where you look the colors are spectacular!

The arbor above is just one of many that have been designed and

constructed by the students!

It has probably been the backdrop for 'too many to count'

photo opps. . .

This is an ongoing project for the Horticulture students here at

the University.

They do the design and planning, then the labor,

so it is a 'hands on' experience for them!

We are very blessed to be able to spend time here and take in

the beauty of the garden!

Join Susan

A Southern Daydreamer

for the Wednesday fun. . .

http://asoutherndaydreamer.blogspot.com/2010/08/91-outdoor-wednesday-86.html

Mosaic Monday. . .The Gardens

2010-08-29T22:28:00.000-07:00

We are really fortunate to have a beautiful garden

here in town!

The University's Horticulture Program

has put together a 'hands on' project for the students

so they actually plan and design various

garden spaces!

We visited it this weekend and had fun doing

some floral shots before the cold weather takes them!

The colors where amazing!

Please join Little Red House and view all the other

participants this week!

http://dearlittleredhouse.blogspot.com/

Mosaic Monday/Outdoor Wednesday. . .'Aim for the Stars'

2010-08-22T14:00:00.000-07:00

When I was a little girl,

Grandma Stella taught us to make 'hollyhock dolls' with flowers from

her garden!

"Aim for the stars, and maybe you'll reach the sky!

I like this quote, but not really sure who

the author is.

Enjoy the rest of your summer . . .

and please join us for
OUTDOOR WEDNESDAY

hosted by

Susan
A Southern Daydreamer
http://asoutherndaydreamer.blogspot.com/2010/08/825-outdoor-wednesday-85.html

Mosaic Monday/Outdoor Wednesday. . .Head for the Hills!

2010-08-15T20:56:00.000-07:00

It's that time of the year when we load up the kids
and head for the hills to pick
little purple berries!
The idea is to get more berries in your bucket than you
put in your mouth.
(sometimes this can be challenging)
This has been a family tradition for as long as I
can remember!
We started going with our parents, then we took our own kids. . .
Now we are taking the grand kids!
It's Huckleberry 'pickin' time here in SE Idaho!
It was so peaceful and beautiful in the mountains and the
berries were just calling out, "pick me, pick me"!
Such great therapy!
Join us for Mosaic Monday
and
Outdoor Wednesday
hosted by
Susan. . .A Southern Day Dreamer
http://asoutherndaydreamer.blogspot.com/2010/08/818-outdoor-wednesday-84.html

Shutter Styles. . .Outdoor Wednesday

2010-08-09T22:04:00.000-07:00

You have to love the 'character' that shutters give to

any structure!

Imagine these same houses minus the shutters, they would

certainly lose much of their charm and curb appeal.

I really like the combination of shutters and wrought iron,

Personality plus. . .

(Various unknown photographers)

Join in the fun for Outdoor Wednesday

hosted by

A Southern Daydreamer

http://asoutherndaydreamer.blogspot.com/2010/08/811-outdoor-wednesday-83.html

Mosaic Monday. . .Outdoor Idaho

2010-08-01T18:03:00.000-07:00

Here are just a few of the 'summer photos' I've

taken here in southeastern Idaho

Beautiful Gardens and plants

Rodeo

(love the hats. . .like father like son)

The Sacajawea sculpture in Salmon, Idaho

Crop duster

Cooling off in the water

Please join us for Mosaic Monday

hosted by

Little Red House

(She always has amazing mosaics!)

There are lots more amazing entries too.

http://dearlittleredhouse.blogspot.com/2010/08/mosaic-monday-vintage-summer.html

OUTDOOR WEDNESDAY. . .COUNTRY GARDEN

2010-07-27T16:23:00.000-07:00

There are 3 tiny little summer squash hiding in this plant!

Opps spilled!

Pansies in an old whiskey barrel. .

I took this photo at one of our local nurserys. .

Every country garden needs a 'happy' sunflower in it!

Our little corner of the world. . .country garden

We live on a farm that was homesteaded by

my husband's great grandfather.

Four generations later. . .we are still enjoying 'life in the country'!

The dirt roads are paved now and town is slowly

creeping our way!

But we can still look out both front and back windows and

see the wheat fields gradually changing colors. Smell the

aroma of fresh cut hay.

We love watching the horses

grazing in the pasture and the sun coming up

behind the 'Grand Tetons' every morning!

Right now summer time out here on the farm

is just a

'little piece of Heaven'!

Enjoy Outdoor Wednesday

hosted by Susan

@ 'A Southern Daydreamer'

have a great day and go check it out!

/http://asoutherndaydreamer.blogspot.com/

OUTDOOR WEDNESDAY. . .GREENHOUSE OBSESSION

2010-07-13T19:42:00.000-07:00

GREENHOUSES

(Some are quite elaborate don't you think?)

We have such a short growing season here in

Southeast Idaho.

Many of the plants get their start in greenhouses

otherwise

they simply wouldn't make it!

It was cold on the 4th of July this year,

I mean seriously you wanted your 'winter coat' kind of weather!

Many people have their own greenhouses so they can

get things growing earlier, without worrying

about frost, yes FROST!

We had frost this year in June, argh. . .

Besides unusually cold weather we have had more than our share

of WIND, not gentle breezes, but

gusty, obnoxious WIND!

My hanging basket has spent more time

hanging out in the garage, than on the patio, because

the wind keeps trying to blow it away.

Anyway I've been thinking it would be nice to

have a greenhouse where I could satisfy my

gardening obsession and not have to worry about

frost or wind.

I found some really great photos of private

greenhouses. I had to share these with

you for

OUTDOOR WEDNESDAY

hosted by

A SOUTHERN DAYDREAMER

Please join us and enjoy all the

great entries!

I'm crossing my fingers, and saying a little prayer

hoping for a

Wednesday without wind. . .

http://asoutherndaydreamer.blogspot.com/2010/07/714-outdoor-wednesday-79.html

OUTDOOR WEDNESDAY --- A NEW TWIST ON ROOFTOP GARDENING. . .

2010-06-28T07:41:00.000-07:00

This Photo came up when I googled

'PLAYHOUSES'

Very interesting don't you think? I hope the roof

is sturdy, it's holding an enormous load!

(photographer unknown)

Stop by

A SOUTHERN DAYDREAMER'S BLOG

and enjoy

OUTDOOR WEDNESDAY

http://asoutherndaydreamer.blogspot.com/2010/06/630-outdoor-wednesday-77.html

Patio and Veranda Gardens. . .I Love Mosaic Monday!

2010-06-20T21:10:00.000-07:00

Something about this visual. . .small space but very appealing!

I've become obsessed lately with gardening, I just can't

seem to get enough.

We are trying to do some renovations in our yard this summer.

I've been pouring through magazines and books,

googling ideas, visiting garden centers, and checking out

other 'bloggers sites' and creative yardscaping!

So I hope I'm not boring everyone to death with all the yard photos.

With any luck, and a lotta hard work, I'll be able to

'show and tell' later in the season!

If you know of any fun gardening blogs or magazines

I hope you'll share!

Have a great week and head on over to

Dear Little Red House

Mary always has beautiful photos and lots of great links!

http://dearlittleredhouse.blogspot.com/2010/06/mosaic-monday-summer-at-natirar.html

Mosaic Monday. . .Through the Garden Gate

2010-06-13T20:28:00.001-07:00

This week's mosaic is a collection of

GARDEN GATES

You would naturally be drawn into the garden

with these intriguing entryways.

I can't decide which is my favorite, I really like

them all, and what about you?

Join us for Mosaic Monday hosted by

Dear Little Red House

http://dearlittleredhouse.blogspot.com/

Mosaic Monday. . .Pictures of Beautiful Pergolas

2010-06-07T08:38:00.000-07:00

While I'm dreaming, might as well put

these on my wish list!

(You might have to click to get the big picture)

And do check out the

beautiful

Pondside photos of

Little Red House

and all the other Monday Mosaics

http://dearlittleredhouse.blogspot.com/2010/06/mosaic-monday-pondside.html

Outdoor Wednesday. . .Going to POT!

2010-06-02T06:11:00.000-07:00

Lately I've been obsessed with the idea of a
POTTING SHED!

It probably has something to do with too much
WIND and RAIN.

We have had more than our share of both. . .

So the idea of having somewhere 'out of the elements' to play in the dirt

has really become a 'full blown'
OBSESSION!

For Outdoor Wednesday I'm posting some pictures of
'DREAM SHEDS'.

A girl can always dream. . .
http://asoutherndaydreamer.blogspot.com/2010/06/62-outdoor-wednesday-73.html

Monday Mosaic

2010-05-30T10:33:00.000-07:00

Our first ROAD TRIP of the season. . .destination
SOUTHERN UTAH
We drove about 1500 miles and covered some new country
that we hadn't seen before!
Usually when we drive south it's in hopes of finding
SUNSHINE AND WARMER WEATHER
that only happened 1 of the 4 days we were gone.
Never the less, we did take in some amazing scenery.
Bryce Canyon (snow on top) ugh!
Manti
Capital Reef Park
Amazing rock formations
Beautiful 'desert flowers' in bloom
Best ever salsa in Richfield
First visit to IKEA. . .let the good times ROLL
Mosaic Monday on Memorial Day
http://dearlittleredhouse.blogspot.com/2010/05/mosaic-monday-my-spring-flowers.html

A NIGHT on BROADWAY. . .for Mosaic Monday

2010-05-02T15:14:00.000-07:00

We enjoyed a night on BROADWAY and didn't even have to
leave town to experience it!!

DANCE UNLIMITED

Dance Recital

They seriously had the cutest costumes and the
most 'darling' dancers you can imagine. . .
All choreographed to Broadway music

SINGING IN THE RAIN & SOMEWHERE OVER THE RAINBOW

(Those were just a couple of the Broadway hits)

It really was quite amazing that the dance recital came together at all!

Not too long ago the head dance instructor lost her home, her dance studio,
and many of the costumes in a fire!

The fire destroyed practically everything they owned!
She and her husband and children were lucky to get out of the burning house without incident.
We've heard the phrase 'The show must go on' and it did and it was GREAT!

She claims that it was only possible because of the help from so many 'good friends', parents,
dance students, and generous people in our community . . .

Enjoy all the Mosiac Monday entries
http://dearlittleredhouse.blogspot.com/2010/05/mosaic-monday-natural-cooling-edition.html

Inspiration from THE INSPIRED ROOM

2010-04-23T17:35:00.000-07:00

Mod podge Stars

Oh my STARS, I could really have fun with this one!

Adding a fun new twist to an old idea. . .

These 'happy little cupcakes' just make me want to smile :~)

http://birdcrafts.blogspot.com/2010/04/diy-decorated-cupcakes.html

Place Mat Beach Bags

Think of all the possibilities here!!!

Melissa from

THE INSPIRED ROOM

had some great ideas that I wanted to file away for later. . .on her blog today.

So rather than try and remember where I saw them, I'll just post some 'pictures of interest'

and the link to her blog. . .

Just in case someone else is looking for a little inspiration too!

http://theinspiredroom.net/2010/04/22/inspired-by-sunshine/

Check These out. . .

2010-04-22T05:46:00.000-07:00

Love these 'Vintage number key plates'

Endless possibilities!

Melissa at The Inspired Room is offering free shipping on these

for the next 2 days, if anyones interested. . .

http://theinspiredroom.net/

Shabby Chic. . .and Spring Spruceup!

2010-04-14T19:12:00.000-07:00

SPRING always gets me motivated to clean out some of the 'old clutter' and

try and freshen things up inside a bit. . .
Then it's off to get some fresh air

gardening and doing yard work.

And soaking up some long awaited SUNSHINE!!!

Three is such a tender age. . .

2010-04-12T15:11:00.000-07:00

Mosaic Monday. . .The Roundabout

2010-03-15T05:23:00.000-07:00

Winter has turned this amazing water feature into a frozen

Ice Sculpture!

The life sized eagle perched on his nest, is just one of the wild life sculptures of the

'ROUNDABOUT'!

With SPRING making it's way, the water should soon

be flowing freely again. . .

Adding movement and life to this majestic work of art!
Thanks for hosting, Dear little Red House
see all the entries by clicking below
http://dearlittleredhouse.blogspot.com/2010/03/mosaic-monday-food-glorious-food.html

Mosaic Monday. . .Spring Fever

2010-02-28T07:45:00.000-08:00

I'm trying very hard to be patient for the arrival of

SPRING. . .

but I really do have a rather severe case of

SPRING FEVER!

This cheerful bouquet was a reminder that, yes

there is SUNSHINE somewhere in the world. . .(just not in our neck of the woods yet).

A surprise 'spring bouquet delivery' was just what the doctor ordered!

Thank-you JS.

Its going to be my screen saver until the snow is all melted. . .big sigh!!!

Thank-you to our hostess for MOSAIC MONDAY

Dear Little Red House

click on her blogspot below for all the other Monday entries.

http://dearlittleredhouse.blogspot.com/2010/03/mosaic-monday-riley.html

Mosaic Monday. . .Memories

2010-02-21T16:34:00.000-08:00

I love these old photos of my in-laws. . .Whoever said a picture is worth a

thousand words, certainly described the 'vibes' that come from some of these old photographs of them!

My 'Monday Mosaic' is a tribute to them and the love they shared for each other and with us.

Huummm, I should have thought of this last week on Valentines Day.

"There is only one happiness in life, to love and be loved. . ."

Quote by

George MacDonald

Come join in the fun for Mosaic Monday hosted by Dear Little Red House

http://dearlittleredhouse.blogspot.com/2010/02/mosaic-monday-vintage-greens.html

Mosaic Monday. . .Winter in Idaho

2010-02-07T18:45:00.000-08:00

"If we had no winter, the spring would not be so pleasant."

- Anne Bradstreet-

"There is a privacy about it which no other season gives you ..... In spring, summer and fall people sort of have an open season on each other; only in the winter, in the country, can you have longer, quiet stretches when you can savor belonging to yourself."

- Ruth Stout-

Check out the beautiful mosaics hosted by DearLittleRedHouse http://dearlittleredhouse.blogspot.com/2010/02/mosaic-monday-think-spring.html

Outdoor Wednesday. . .6 more weeks of this!

2010-02-02T17:21:00.000-08:00

It's official we will have at least 6 more weeks of this. . .

Punxsutawny Phil did see his shadow so we are in for another month or so

of cold weather. Here in Idaho we have come to expect snow even in May!

Check out the other 'Outdoor' entries hosted by A Southern DayDreamer

http://asoutherndaydreamer.blogspot.com/2010/02/23-outdoor-wednesday-56.html

Thought for the Day!

2010-01-20T13:55:00.000-08:00

"Contemporary research shows that 'happy' people are more

altruistic (unselfish)

more productive

more helpful

more likable

more creative

more resilient

more interested in others

friendlier

and healthier.

Happy people make better friends

colleagues and citizens."

Quote-unquote from Gretchen Rubin's book entitled

The Happiness Project

Diet Cabbage Soup. . .AKA. . .Dolly Parton Soup

2010-01-07T18:08:00.000-08:00

We have been on an 'eating binge' since Thanksgiving. . .and this year I didn't make the

same old New Year's Resolution to lose 10+lbs. . . .after all

Why set myself up for failure again in 2010!

But we are making a conscious effort and going to start out with this

Diet Cabbage Soup. . .AKA. . .Dolly Parton Diet Soup

So today on 'Foodie Friday' I'm sharing this recipe in case anyone else

is interested in 'jump starting' their diets at the beginning of 2010!

1 head cabbage shredded or chopped
2 large onions, chopped
2 cans peeled and chopped tomatoes
2 green peppers
4 stalks of celery
1-2 pkg. Lipton soup mix (either onion or I like beef)
black pepper (a pinch)
any fresh herbs of your choice, chopped
6 carrots, sliced
green beans
1/2 cup balsamic vinegar (optional)
I always add a can of V-8 for flavor
Put all the vegetables in a big pot and cover, bring to boil, stir in soup mix and
boil gently for 10 minutes, then cover and simmer until all the veggies are tender!
Stir in the black pepper and herbs last, save some for garnish if you like
You can look up this soup online and see how it is suggested to be used as a Diet Soup.
You can eat as much of this as you like, drinking lots of water, it is used in a 7 day
diet plan!
See the recipe for 'killer cookies' and other delicious entries which I have copied

and solemnly vowed to try at some later date!
on the host blog site
http://designsbygollum.blogspot.com/2010/01/foodie-friday-2-dinners.html

Day #29. . .Final Day of Gift Giving

2009-12-29T20:23:00.000-08:00

So today is the last day of my 29 days of giving. . .

And it seems that my gift of babysitting has been duplicated several times

over the past 29 days!!!

Also fitting that the final day was a gift of time spent with a couple

of the grandkids, while a mom had some 'me time'!

I think mom's need a little time away from the kids once in awhile

to keep them from 'burn out'!!!

Final gift #29. . .Babysitting

Sooo, what have I learned or gained from this past month of 'giving'?

It has made me very aware of opportunities that arise in our daily lives

to serve others in all sorts of ways. . .

Mostly not big and grand 'Mother Teresa' kinds of things

but subtle, little acts of kindness that present themselves daily. . .if we just pay attention!

Hopefully, random acts that may have made someone else's burdens a

little lighter and helped take the focus off my own challenges!!!

I thought at first it might be hard to come up with 29 straight days of gifts,

but new opportunities came up everyday!

The challenge just reminded me to act on the opportunities that came my way

instead of just thinking about it or saying oh, maybe tomorrow or next time,

blah, blah, blah!

Anyway, it was a good experience, and one I hope to repeat often.

Thanks Cami Walker for offering up a challenge

and for letting us come along with you on your journey of

'Gift Giving'

and showing us how 'giving' can make a difference to us both

emotionally and physically!

Day 28. . .Nice quiet dinner and movie!!!

2009-12-29T07:27:00.000-08:00

We had an early dinner and then plans for a quiet evening watching a movie!

The holidays get hectic and so we were looking forward to a little quiet 'down time'!

But it seems sometimes 'life's little emergencies' take precedence over your plans. . .

Such was the case this evening, so we shifted gears and turned our attention to

a family member with a crisis!
Gift #28
The gift of our time and attention!

Day 27. . .the envelope

2009-12-28T12:50:00.000-08:00

Today was a little something in an envelope as a thank-you for

good service and appreciation!

I think it's nice to let people know you noticed a job

well done and that you are grateful for them!

Gift #27

Day 26. . .A gift for Mom

2009-12-26T16:54:00.000-08:00

Day 26, the day after Christmas. . .

This is the first Christmas without Mom and even though she really hasn't

been able to enjoy the holidays for some time now, I have missed her

being here so much!

for Gift #26

A beautiful 'red rose' for you Mom!

Day #25. . .I couldn't have planned this any better. . .Day 25 fell on the 25th!

2009-12-25T18:40:00.000-08:00

Christmas Day(a day of giving and special gifts) and soo much to be grateful for. . .

3 little girls, holding up their doll blankets, special gifts I made for them

and their new dolls!

Gifts given on Day 25. . .and some of the little people in my life that I love!!!

Day 24. . .Preparation for Christmas Eve

2009-12-23T21:02:00.000-08:00

Today was spent buying groceries, setting tables, last minute cleaning,

and finishing up my Christmas wrapping!!!

I'm pooped, I've been up past midnight for over a week now and it

has finally caught up to me!

Tomorrow is Christmas Eve, and we always have our family over for dinner,

it's a distraction for the kids and a fun get together for

our family for as many years as I can remember!

Gift #24

Preparation for our Christmas Eve Dinner!

Day 23. . .Neighbor and Friend Christmas Deliveries

2009-12-22T21:15:00.000-08:00

I put our neighborhood 'Christmas goodies' together today and hubby delivered

them to wish neighbors a Merry Christmas from our family!!!

Gifts #23

Day 22. . .almost had to start over

2009-12-21T21:05:00.000-08:00

Craming for the 'Christmas finals' and almost missed out on the gift giving today!

Hubby really likes the Egg drop soup at one of the local resturants

sooooo. . .

Because I was busy all day and it was almost time for dinner,

I killed 2 birds with one stone (tongue in cheek)!

Brought home some yummy soup on my way through town. . .and we were both happy!!!!

Cheeter Gift #22

(I must have gotten the inspiration from the last post talking about 'chicken soup' so anyway

I guess it was better than being a quitter)!

Day 21. . .Christmas visits

2009-12-20T18:45:00.000-08:00

Christmas is the time of year that we do manage to take time from this busy 'ratrace' we call life

and visit friends and neighbors to wish them well for the holidays!

We spent a couple hours this afternoon visiting some of our friends, funny how this

can lift your spirits and make life better! It's too bad we don't do

this more often it is 'chicken soup for the soul'!!!!

Gift #21

(It turned out to be more of a gift to us)

Day 20. . .I can't believe it's 20 already!

2009-12-19T20:03:00.000-08:00

Another '911 babysitting' session! It is a gift to be able to do

this and I need to remind myself that all the other things I

think are important and not getting done, are just that. . .'things'!

In the big scheme it's really all about people, not decorations, baking, and

cleaning the house!!!

Gift # 20

Day #19

2009-12-18T21:15:00.000-08:00

Day #19 . . .Delivered a poinsettia to someone that has been taking care of

her sick husband for a long time and is pretty much stuck at home!

She isn't planning to put up a tree this year and really didn't have any

Christmas decorations out!

She seemed happy with the plant it was a white one that had been lightly tinted

a color to match her new plum colored entry wall!

Gift #19

Day #18 . . . Who turned the lights out!!!

2009-12-18T07:21:00.000-08:00

Trying to finish up another sewing project this evening and the power

went out! Which means no more sewing, writting cards, baking or anything else

that involves light and electricity (pretty much everything you want to do)!!!

So we sat at the kitchen counter and by candle light had a 'text fest'

Thank heavens for cell phones to keep us entertained. . .

I did get gift # 18 in earlier in the day though

Babysitting for a few hours in the morning and a card written to someone that just lost a family member!

Gifts #18

Day #17. . .Hats, Coats, and Gloves

2009-12-16T21:46:00.000-08:00

Gift # 17

Fred and Waynes Tire Factory placed an advertisement in the newspaper

that they were collecting hats, coats, and gloves for women and children.

The donations will be taken to the 'Safe Haven'

for victims of domestic violence!

So for gift #17, I gathered up some of these items and

donated to this great cause. . .Thank heavens for people and businesses who want

to try and make a difference in someone's life!!!!

Day 16. . .Shhh it's a secret!

2009-12-15T21:29:00.000-08:00

Today's gift is a quiet. . .no fanfare, ritual we have been doing for quite a few

years now. . .We just keep it to ourselves. . .only my hubby and I,

and some of Santa's helpers. . .will ever know about it!

'Secret' gift #16. . .

Day 15. . . .Standing in line

2009-12-14T21:42:00.000-08:00

Tis the season for standing in long lines everywhere you go. . .

Today was no exception, I found myself standing in line with other shoppers

trying to be patient and polite!!!

In 2 different stores there happened to be a person waiting behind me that only had a single

item to buy, so even though I was getting a little frazzled I let them go ahead of me. . .

OK, well maybe it wasn't that 'big a deal' but if you only knew

how bad I dislike standing in line, it really was a gift!!!!!

Gift #15

Merry Christmas. . .2009

2009-12-14T08:41:00.000-08:00

Happy holidays to all!!!

Thank-you to our host Between Naps on the Porch

http://betweennapsontheporch.blogspot.com/2009/12/welcome-to-48th-metamorphosis-monday.html

DAY #14. . .A Gift From 'DipityRoad' A Christmas story!

2009-12-13T18:14:00.000-08:00

THIS IS SUCH A TOUCHING STORY. . .I JUST READ IT ON ANOTHER BLOGSITE

DIPITYROAD

(click on her blog on the right of my screen)

'A BROTHER LIKE THAT'
http://www.dipityroad.com/christmas/christmas-a-brother-like-that

It is one of her favorite Christmas stories I think it just became one of mine too!
I've included the story in case you can't open her link.
Day #14
Sharing a Christmas story!

Paul received an automobile from his brother as a Christmas present. On Christmas Eve when Paul came out of his office, a street urchin was walking around the shiny new car, admiring it.

"Is this your car, Mister?” he asked. Paul nodded. ”My brother gave it to me for Christmas.” The boy was astounded. “You mean your brother gave it to you and it didn’t cost you nothing? Boy, I wish.. .” He hesitated. Of course Paul knew what he was going to wish for. He was going to wish he had a brother like that.
But what the lad said jarred Paul all the way down to his heels.“I wish,” the boy went on, “that I could be a brother like that.
Paul looked at the boy in astonishment, then impulsively he added, “Would you like to take a ride in my automobile?”“Oh yes, I’d love that. “After a short ride, the boy turned and with his eyes aglow, said, “Mister, would you mind driving in front of my house?”
Paul smiled a little. He thought he knew what the lad wanted. He wanted to show his neighbors that he could ride home in a big automobile.
But Paul was wrong again. “Will you stop where those two steps are?” the boy asked.
He ran up the steps. Then in a little while Paul heard him coming back, but he was not coming fast. He was carrying his little crippled brother.
He sat him down on the bottom step, then sort of squeezed up against him and pointed to the car.
“There she is, Buddy, just like I told you upstairs. His brother gave it to him for Christmas and it didn’t cost him a cent. And some day I’m gonna give you one just like it…then you can see for yourself all the pretty things in the Christmas windows that I’ve been trying to tell you about..
“ Paul got out and lifted the lad to the front seat of his car. The shining-eyed older brother climbed in beside him and the three of them began a memorable holiday ride.
That Christmas Eve, Paul learned what Jesus meant when he had said: “It is more blessed to give…”
Author Unknown

Number 13. . .Happy Birthday!!!

2009-12-12T23:23:00.000-08:00

Tonight we helped a friend celebrate her birthday. . .

It was sort of a 'cop out' on my part because it was really a pleasure to

be part of this birthday celebration dinner!

But because I don't want to start all over, I'm going to count this

as my 13th gift. . .shame on me, I know!!!!!

I don't want today to become 'unlucky' #13 :( . . . so I'm pretty sure that celebrating birthdays

should be counted as a gift, yup!!!

Toys for Tots . . . Gift #12

2009-12-11T22:04:00.000-08:00

It is day twelve and I hadn't been out today, it was super cold and I

wasn't up to my 'A' game !

So about 7:00 pm. this evening I'm thinking I may just have to skip

a day. . .Not wanting to be a 'quiter' I was just a little bummed!

Not to mention in the book '29 gifts', they recommend starting all over again

if you miss a day. . .And I'm all but half way through the month!"

Because I hadn't been feeling so great today, I had to run to K-Mart

to the pharmacy before closing time. . .

The first person to greet me as I walked in the front door, was a young boy

scout. . .He wanted to know if I'd be interested in donating to 'TOYS FOR TOTS'!

Absolutely could not turn them down, so before I left the store, I made my donation

to TOYS FOR TOTS. . gift #12!

Gift #11. . .Forgiveness

2009-12-10T15:40:00.000-08:00

This is a gift I have known since I finished reading the book '29 Gifts' that I would have to

include sometime during my 29 days of giving!

So today the emotions that were present almost a decade ago

surfaced one last time and I let them go, I'm done with them once and for all!!!!

So this gift is one that the recipients will probably never know about,

but the feelings attached to it will no longer be taking up space in my heart and mind!

Gift # 11. . .FORGIVENESS

Wow, this really feels good!!!!!

Gift #10 . . .

2009-12-09T21:34:00.000-08:00

Free daycare again today. . .the last test for Mom this semester. . .my 10th gift!!!!

10th day. . .10th gift. . .grandchild #10

Gift #9. . .A boy about 5 yrs. old!

2009-12-08T18:29:00.000-08:00

A local business in our town has a special Christmas tree displayed inside their store.

On the tree are cards with the ages and sex of kids that

won't have a very 'Merry Christmas' unless gift donations are made.

Hubby told me about this, so he picked out a 'boy's card' to

help buy a present for. . .

I took our 14 yr. old grandson shopping with me, so I would have
some expertise with this 'boy toy' gift.

We found something we hope will put a smile on some little guy's face

when it's opened on Christmas day, and that was gift #9. . .

Day #8 and the Bell Ringer

2009-12-07T21:33:00.000-08:00

It was about 10 degrees above zero, so cold you wanted to

scream!!! but couldn't. . .

The 'Bell Ringer' for the Salvation Army, still greeted us with a

pleasant, holiday greeting. . .(not the most coveted job right now). In spite of the fact that many people turn their heads and just walk on by him, he was positive and still a 'man with a mission'.

I could not pass by without feeling guilty, so I dug in my wallet

and found some money to put in the red bucket and left feeling like maybe

I had helped out their 'cause' just a little!

Gift # 7. . .living in a small community

2009-12-06T21:53:00.000-08:00

There are times when living in a smaller community has some advantages!

Lately I've seen our little town come together and rally around

several families to help out in their times of need.

It makes me proud to be living in a place where people still care

about each other and step up to the plate when necessary!

Recently a man passed away, that had been sort of down and out on his luck

so we decided to donate a small amount of money to help the family

pay for his funeral. . .maybe collectively we as a community can make a difference.

I'm hoping that our contribution and condolences can help make a

difficult burden just a bit easier for the family to bear!

Gift # 6. . .Spending time with Bailee

2009-12-05T21:07:00.000-08:00

I got a phone call this morning from our granddaughter . . .

It went something like this.

"Grandma what are you doing today, because my mom is going shopping and

I don't want to go! Can I come out to your house?"

And of course, the answer was, yes!

She brought her doll and came out to visit for awhile, she is a such a sweet girl!!!

It is almost not right that I'm counting this as my '6th gift',

but I am!

She is most certainly a 'gift' to our family!

Gift # 5. . .Extreme Babysitting

2009-12-04T21:59:00.000-08:00

Day 5 already, found me babysitting my granddaughter so her mom

could take a test this afternoon!

This takes lots of energy on my part, because she is TWO, super cute,

but soooo full of energy that it could be considered 'extreme daycare duty'!

My gift to Mom so she dosen't have to pay for a
babysitter while she goes to school. . .

(really more like their gift to me to be able spend time with one of the gks)!

Took a Friend to Lunch. . .Day # 4

2009-12-03T22:45:00.000-08:00

Today I went to lunch with a couple of my old highschool friends!

Gift number 4 was buying lunch for my friend.

We haven't seen each other a much in the last 25 years

but we can still talk about anything and everything just like we did back in High School!

It was a fun day, we've decided we should do it at least once a month !!!

It made my day since I got a couple phone calls this morning that were not so happy!!!!

(Gift # 4)

Day # 3. . .My 1st Christmas card

2009-12-02T21:31:00.000-08:00

It's almost time for bed but I've been thinking about this gift all day!

I took time last night to 'write' my very first

CHRISTMAS CARD!!!

( I actually spent time to think about and write a

little note to a friend that I've been

meaning to get in touch with for a while now)!

This is huge for me because I'm usually stuffing cards in the mail

a week before Christmas and by then I don't take much time to do more than sign

Merry Christmas and our names!

Staying connected is a gift!

Day # 2. . .of the challenge

2009-12-01T21:20:00.000-08:00

Day 2 wasn't a typical 'gift giving' day, I didn't give a gift all wrapped with a bow,

but instead I spent a couple hours attending a funeral of a friend's father!

This was a rather hard thing to do, because my own Mom's funeral

doesn't seem that long ago, and is still pretty tender!

At first I just planned on attending the viewing and then sending my condolences

via card or a phone call. . .

It was also difficult because I had to go alone (not fun at all)!

But then I thought of how much it meant to me, to have support at a time

like this. I came away very grateful for our friendship and realizing

that a gift doesn't have to be something material at all, it can be 'simply'

sharing yourself!

Day #1 of the '29 Gifts' Challenge

2009-12-01T07:25:00.000-08:00

My '1st gift' was sharing this book with someone I thought would enjoy reading

Cami Walker's story. . .

This book is not only about giving but about Cami's illness that was life changing

for her and her daily struggles associated with it!

I have tweaked the challenge just a tad to fit my beliefs and lifestyle, but for the

most part the 'giving concept' is the same!

Today is the '1st' day of my '29 Gifts' challenge! Met Monday

2009-11-29T16:03:00.000-08:00

I have just finished reading Cami Walker's book '29 Gifts'.

This is her personal story of how her life was

literally changed, because of her journey and a month's worth of giving. . .

I decided to take on this challenge and today is my 1st day!

I realize this is the season for giving, but I couldn't wait any longer

to get started. . .so for the next 29 days I will be documenting my experiences!

If you have not heard about this book click on the link below to hear Cami tell

in her own words how she was inspired to take the leap, that has turned her life around!

http://givingchallenge.ning.com/video/29-gifts-book-trailer#

Check out Between Naps on the Porch for Met Monday entries (at the right on my blog list)!

Holiday gift ideas. . .Mosaic Monday

2009-11-23T08:33:00.001-08:00

Just in time for Holiday gift giving!

These are a few of the gifts that have been fun friend and neighbor

gifts. The Pepper Jelly is a hit, add a tub of cream cheese

and crackers and yummmm! The craft boxes filled with goodies and tied with ribbon are great,

and then the Mexican vanilla

is the best and it's packaging is sooo fun. . .

Mexican Vanilla. . .$12.95 for 8.4oz.

Kraft candy and pastry boxes. . .$1.25ea

Raspberry Pepper Jelly. . .$5.95 a jar

Farewell to Fall. . .Mosaic Monday

2009-11-15T15:29:00.000-08:00

These pictures were taken on a Private Bird Hunting Ranch

here in Idaho, last Saturday.

The ground is totally white there now and will probably stay

that way until spring. . .oh sigh!

Not sure I'm ready for what is ahead, I'm going to get

my 'happy light'. . . :)

Stop by Little Red House to see all

the great Monday Mosaics!

(click on her blog at the right)

Mosaic Monday. . .Trick or Treat

2009-11-01T19:00:00.000-08:00

A jail bird, bees, bunnies, and a shady lady. . .

are just some of the characters that came to 'Trick or Treat' on Halloween NiGhT!

Mosaic Monday hosted by Dear Little Red House

http://dearlittleredhouse.blogspot.com/2009/11/mosaic-monday-fall-foliage.html

Front Door Theory. . .

2009-10-25T18:22:00.000-07:00

What does your front door say about you?

Are you creative, fun, colorful, elegant, or maybe,

like me, mostly a work in progress?
Sometimes mine says, "I've been a little neglected"!

Our front door is one of the 1st statements we can make to the rest

of the world about

our personalities and who we are!

I enjoy looking at other blogs and pictures of various ways

you have made your front entryways and doors inviting and so YOU!
I'm always intrigued with the styles and types of doors people choose.

Probably the most important element. . .even in the most humble circumstances,

should be all about the 'Welcoming Factor'.

At least that's my personal Front Door Theory!

Thank-you for sharing your ideas and talents and comments
Thanks to A Southern Daydreamer for hosting

http://asoutherndaydreamer.blogspot.com/2009/10/1028-outdoor-wednesday-42.html

FeeD TheM and they will ComE RunniNg. .Outdoor Wednesday

2009-10-14T06:44:00.000-07:00

Did someone say 'food'?

This is our local Nature Park. . .They have made it into an outdoor

recreation area, complete with walking and bike paths, fishing, and picnic shelters.

You can have an 'outdoor nature experience' without leaving the city limits!
Kids love it because there are ducks and geese that will literally eat out of your hand!
In fact they are so socialized, that when you pull into the parking area near the lake, and get out of your vehicle, they flock to you, honking loudly as they come begging for food. . . It didn't take them long to 'get' the free handout idea!
Happy Outdoor Wednesday! Sponsored by A Southern Daydreamer!

Met Monday. . .Enter Autumn

2009-10-02T21:12:00.000-07:00

Mosaic Monday and Morphed entryway. . .

I bought the berry wreath at K Mart for $19.99, tweaked it with

some fall leaves, curly willow and flowers, and it works!
Little black pillow was purchased at Tai Pan Trading for $11.99 less 20%. . .sweet
Resurrect a rustic container and fill it with fall grass and stems. . .

I already had the wicker basket, but it was a light honey toned finish, so a

little glossy wood spray paint, and it was perfect. . .add some fall grass for interest! The faux books ($9.95 at Real Deals) in gold and brown tones were the perfect background for
the orchard, a few harvest stems and a fall vine (from storage).

'Designed on a Dime' (well not quite) that was my mission for the front entryway. Trying to hold the cost down and still welcome in a new season, with a fall theme!

Check out all the other posts hosted by Between Naps on the Porch

and

Little Red House for Mosaic Monday

(Click on their blog links on my side bar to see all the great entries!)

Thank-you so much for stopping by have a great day!

Outdoor Wednesday. . .More Fall Photos!

2009-09-29T20:41:00.000-07:00

This is a building in downtown Hailey, Idaho covered with climbing vines. . .who needs paint!

The colors were absolutely stunning!
I had to pull over several times and get the camera out!
So many beautiful views!
The weatherpeople have been threatening us with SNOW in the mountains
this week. I'm so hoping they got it wrong. . .
Click on the Outdoor Wednesday logo in the right hand corner to see the other
great posts-hosted by A Southern Daydreamer

'Morphing' into Fall. . .Met Monday

2009-09-18T06:24:00.000-07:00

A fallen leaf is nothing more than a summers wave good bye . . .

Fall is one of my favorite seasons, and here in Southeastern Idaho our 4 seasons are very defined! . .I like most everything about fall, the colors are spectacular! The cooler nights and cooler daytime temperatures are refreshing, the beginning and end of harvest. . .My nesting mode starts to kick in again, yard work slows down, sweaters, jackets, boots, and then enjoying the fall holidays and food!!!

Thank-you to our hostess ''Between Naps on the Porch'!

And Susan at A Southern Daydreamer

(click on her Outdoor Wednesday button, top right to see the other entries)

Met Monday. . .From our Fields to your Tables!

2009-09-05T18:09:00.000-07:00

The Amber Waves of Grain. . .It's Harvest Time!

Sewing but a single seed can change the world you see!

It starts out as a golden sheath . . .And gives strength to you and me!

The greatest service which can be rendered any country is to add a useful plant to its culture.

- Thomas Jefferson

We are in the middle of our harvest, it means long hours, hard work, and

doing our small part to help put food on our and someone elses table!

Hosted by Between naps on the Porch

http://betweennapsontheporch.blogspot.com/2009/09/welcome-to-34th-metamorphosis-monday.html

Outdoor Wednesday. . .and Dill Pickles

2009-09-01T19:41:00.001-07:00

Fresh Dill and Cucumbers from the garden. . .

The cucumbers have been hanging out with the zucchini and have really been

multiplying this summer! Dill is one of my favorite spices/herbs, I love how it tastes and smells! You can enjoy the fragrance in the garden and I even like to put it in a fresh floral arrangement!
We probably eat healthier in the 4 months of summer, than we do the rest of the year!
Here they are all bottled up and ready to put on the shelves for later! Even though gardening is a lot of work, I really enjoy being outside, and I'm hoping we have an extra loooonnng and beautiful fall!

Check out A Southern Day Dreamer for more

Outdoor Wednesday posts!

http://asoutherndaydreamer.blogspot.com/2009/09/92-outdoor-wednesday-34.html

I Love Mosaic Monday. . .Gardening

2009-08-23T21:02:00.000-07:00

One of the most delightful things about a garden is the anticipation it provides.

~W.E. Johns, The Passing Show

Gardening is about enjoying the smell of things growing in the soil, getting dirty without feeling guilty, and generally taking the time to soak

up a little peace and serenity.

~Lindley Karstens, noproblemgarden.com

Mosaic Monday rolls around mighty fast and that seems to be about all I manage to get posted lately. . .I'm spending too much time outside, but it's all good! We are enjoying the fruits of our labors and so is anyone else that will share our prolific zucchini and apple crop! It's always amazing how one little zucchini plant will grow enough zucchinis to feed a village. . .

Thanks again for hosting Little Red House

http://dearlittleredhouse.blogspot.com/2009/08/mosaic-monday-summer-green.html

Mosaic Monday. . .One Classy Lady!

2009-08-16T20:55:00.000-07:00

Bottom left picture-Audrey in the 1950's, then 1960's, and still so elegant and beautiful in 1991!

Growing up in a small town, we spent almost every weekend going to the movie theater. . mostly because there really wasn't much else to do for entertainment!

One of my favorite female movie stars was

Audrey Hepburn.

As I look at pictures of her, I still think she is such a

'class act'!

So for my Mosaic Monday I have posted some of my favorites and

also a quote that I love too!
Thank-you Dear Little Red House for hosting this fun event!

http://dearlittleredhouse.blogspot.com/2009/08/mosaic-monday-my-special-space.html

Mosaic Monday. . .My first

2009-08-09T19:03:00.001-07:00

This is an old city in Montana, called Bannock City, at one time it was a territorial capital of Montana . . .We felt like we were strolling on the movie set of an old western! It was an old gold mining town back in the late 1800's. They even let you try panning for gold and go inside the old school house and sit in the desks. . .It was real interesting, I especially had fun taking photos of the old doors, walls and windows (if they could talk) I'm sure they could tell a tale or two. . .Thank you to Little Red House for hosting Mosaic Monday!
http://dearlittleredhouse.blogspot.com/2009/08/mosaic-monday-summertime.html

FoOdiE FriDaY!!!! AnD HucKleBerry CheeseCaKe

2009-08-06T19:23:00.000-07:00

It's that time of year here in Southeast Idaho, we head for the hills and spend hours picking little purple berries. . .

If you can pick a whole gallon, without spilling any or eating too many, you've scored !!!!!

So what do we do with these tart little purple berries when we get them home? One of our favorite desserts is Huckleberry cheesecake, we also mix them with raspberries to tone down the 'tartness' and make freezer jam. . .Yum!!!! Oh and it makes a delicious ice cream topping too, my mouth is watering just talking about it. . .there is only one

drawback, you have purple stained fingers for a few days, it's a small price to

pay for the delicious 'GOODNESS'!!!

You can check out the other wonderful entries at the blogsite below http://designsbygollum.blogspot.com/

Outdoor Wednesday # 30. . .Women in Trees!

2009-08-04T20:06:00.001-07:00

Just to give some idea of the size of the cedar trees, we climbed into for a 'Kodak' moment'!

And check out the moss growing on the trunk of this one! It felt like velvet to touch. . .
No, I'm not really a 'tree hugger' but just trying to show the size of another very old tree!

We just returned from a trip to GLACIER NATIONAL PARK and along the way we visited a Cedar Forrest that had trees that were over 400 years old. . .we hiked through the trails and had fun climbing in and around some of the old cedars. . .We also found a beautiful grove that was almost 'rain forrestish' and magical, it felt like we were walking on sponge. . .There is just something so therapeutic about summer and being outdoors when the weather is warm, we are trying to make the most of it. Our winters are far tooo long here in Southeastern Idaho!!!!

http://asoutherndaydreamer.blogspot.com/2009/08/85-outdoor-wednesday-30.html

hosted by A Southern Daydreamer

Outdoor Wednesday. . .Has Another Week Really Gone By Already?? MESA FALLS in IDAHO

2009-07-28T19:56:00.000-07:00

It was so lush and pretty because we had an unusual amount of rain this spring! And you should smell the 'fresh air', it's so much better than any 'fabric softener' out there.

Looking across the falls you can see a rock wall that has this amazing greenery growing out of it. .

I thought these were pretty little white flowers so I had to get an upclose picture. Hubby asked me if I knew what kind of flower it was. . .He said it had very poisinous roots and people had actually died from eating them, ok then. . .not such a pretty little flower any more:(!

So, if you see these pretty flowers, look but DON'T touch. . .(Water Hemlock) the roots at least!

We are blessed to live in an area where you can get in your car and in an hour or less, you can be looking at the most 'delishsus' scenery, it's amazing!!!! So whenever we can slip away, we flip a coin to decide which direction to drive, and away we goooo. . .These pictures are from Mesa Falls, in Island Park, Idaho. . .just a few weeks ago.

Happy Outdoor Wednesday hosted by the lovely Susan at

A Southern Daydreamer

http://asoutherndaydreamer.blogspot.com/2009/07/729-outdoor-wednesday-29.html

Outdoor Wednesday. . .Beautiful Garden!

2009-07-21T18:55:00.000-07:00

I think they must sell their produce in the fall, in the little building in front!
I don't think weeds would dare raise their ugly little heads in this perfect little garden. . .
We have driven past this garden all summer and watched as it progressed and matured! But for me the most impressive thing about it, it is sooo darn neat and perfect. . .Not a weed in site anywhere, everything is so tidy and kept-up. I've yet to see anyone working in it either, how does that happen?. . .So for my Outdoor Wednesday, I wanted to share pictures of this great little garden! Hope you enjoy. . .

Visit all the Outdoor Wednesday posts hosted by Susan at

A Southern Daydreamer http://asoutherndaydreamer.blogspot.com/2009/07/722-outdoor-wednesday-28.html

FoOdiE FriDaY!!!! Birthday Barbie Cake. . .

2009-07-17T05:45:00.000-07:00

,We had a birthday party on Tuesday, and one of the main guests was none other than Barbie. In fact she was 2nd in line for being the main attraction of the party. . .She came dressed in a lovely pink flowered strapless gown, with her hair all done in a glamorous up-do and rhinestone tiara, she looked fabulous. . .She was maybe just a tad overdressed for the occasion, but still

very sweeeeet!

I'm not sure how she keeps that tiny little waistline, 'being knee' deep in cake like she is!

By the end of the night though Barbie was looking rather 'trashed'!

The little girl having the Birthday Party was in awe of this 3 layered Barbie cake creation,

it was perfect for a little girl!

And at the end of the day, she had a new Barbie doll to play with too!

Everyone needs a 'Little Black Chair'. . .Met Monday!

2009-07-13T05:55:00.000-07:00

This is what the finish looked like before the 'little black' transformation! (not the same chair but in similar condition).

Add some black paint, crackle finish. . .and next

Throw in some accessories for interest and fun!

Nestle it next to a friendly armoire for company. . .

I spotted this chair at an Antique Fair 2 years ago, it was looking pretty sad! The price was right so I decided with some black paint and a little 'elbow grease' it could be happy again. I didn't get pictures of the before, because that was before blogging. The finish was pretty well hammered but the chair was still solid so it just had to come home with me!

Thanks to Between Naps on the Porch for hosting Met Monday see the other 'Mets' at

http://betweennapsontheporch.blogspot.com/