Vista Woman

Whew! We're In & I'm Back!

2012-02-01T19:32:00.000-08:00

This is our "new" home.

Just a quick tour because it's a small home.

We went from a 1900 sq. ft. home to

an 800 sq. ft. cottage.

That's why it's a quick tour.

This is our dining room.

Kitchen

Living room.

Yes, we squeezed Tom's huge TV into the cottage.

View from the dining room table.

The door is open anytime. Please come and visit.

Actually, the picture shows the door closed but you know what I mean.

*******

This has been a exciting journey.

God has shown me the way, through each step and turn.

It started with one little step, then another. He was there and answered prayers.

After 30 years of collecting "things", today I can sit back and smell the roses.

My new saying is,

" Less things and more memories."

So, as Tom and I start a new adventure,

be sure to come back to see what we have been up to.

We will be making memories!

Found: One Blue Glove

2012-01-19T20:01:00.000-08:00

Our weather has been crazy.

First snow.

Then ice.

Then snow again!

Sneak Preview of the Cottage:

Downsizing and saying Good-by

2012-01-18T10:35:00.000-08:00

picture of our entry, during summer

I have mentioning for awhile now, that I have been downsizing, a lot.

It started last summer when I knew I wanted to move.

There I said it. Move!

Tom and I talked about it. Looked into it.

Sell our home? No!

Rent our home? No!

Move to a condo? No!

Then canceled the idea.

I knew that I needed keep downsizing.

I'd pack my car and drive to Goodwill and Value Village.

I gave away so many "things".

All long, praying for direction and help.

I kept hearing God say, Purge.

Today, I am reviling ours plans.

(It's a l-o-n-g story so I'm keeping it short)

We are moving to the little cottage that we own,

in the city of Redmond.

Moving date is January 27th.

Some of you might remember this cute cottage

as the home where our grandson was born.

Our home of 29 years,

will still be full of happy noises, love and family.

Mark, Kimmy, Lulu, Levi and Ila May will be moving into our home!

(Like I said, it's a long story, keeping it short.)

Now a little history.

Tom and I moved into the family home in 1983.

Todd was just two years old.

Kimmy was 7 months old.

Todd and Kimmy a few months after we moved in.

So many memories...

When we replaced our carpet, we wrote on the plywood

some messages before the new carpet was installed.

Todd digging a trench when the water main broke.

Prom night for Kimmy.

Our family has just kept growing.

This is the layout of our "new" cottage.

Can you say DOWNSIZING ?

I will be gone from blogging until

we have finished moving in.

Still packing boxes and still purging!

For the past few days, the high school where I work,

has been closed because of snow.

God is good!

No School Means...

2012-01-16T19:53:00.000-08:00

Time off to do some fun things like...

First Snow

2012-01-15T13:04:00.000-08:00

2012-01-09T20:45:00.000-08:00

The school Police Officer,

is getting a box of birthday cupcakes.

Thank you Officer "Jeff" for

always being there for us.

You are appreciated!

Did You Know?

2012-01-03T20:53:00.000-08:00

January is

Get Organize Month.

I have been decluttering, downsizing, organizing, simplifying

or what ever you want to call it,

for the last few months.

I came across a couple of very inspirational blogs and

sights that I want to share with you.

My quest started with this blog;

(be sure to look around this motivational blog)

Small Notebook for a simple home.

Her words hit me hard.

"It's easier to Simplify then to Organize"

That was such an eye-opener for me.

So my decluttering, downsizing, simplifying started!

First, I went through our grown children's

things, that were left behind when they moved out.

I gave them back all their pictures, awards, clothes and yearbooks.

Next, I gave them family heirlooms that I knew they would cherish.

It was so much fun to see their faces

when I gave them these loved memories.

Then I started on my own things, like clothes.

How many white t-shirts do I really need?

Today, our home has been simplified!

Other sites you might want to visit:

My Simpler Life

Nesting Place

Get Organized Now

PS; it feels great!

Early to Bed, Early to Rise

2012-01-02T06:45:00.000-08:00

New Years Eve 2011

I went over to play with the grandchildren and

to help them prepare for the end of the year celebration.

Here we are making "noise makers" out of paper plates and beans.

(Tom couldn't be with us because he was working the graveyard shift)

Next, Kimmy and I went through our Memory Boxes.

It's a synopsis of mementos from the year.

This was fun!!

I'm always good for a book or two.

Earlier in the day, Kimmy and I went
and had our toes painted.

I decided to be adventurous and go wild!
Lulu &I were playing Footsie.

More silliness!

This was a fun game.

We try to guess what is on our foreheads,

by asking questions to each other.

We toasted to the incoming year.

No......the kids drank sparkling cider.

Each had their own cute little bottles.

Cheers!

Kimmy got out her wedding crystal.

After an itsy bitsy sip...

I headed home around 10:00 PM.

Early to Bed, Early to Rise,

Makes me a bit more Wise.

New Year, New Calendar and more...

2011-12-31T16:00:00.000-08:00

Oh, how I love my Susan Branch calendars.

I save them from year to year.

When I get ready to put up my new calendar,

it is a production.

I get out my colored pens and pour a cup of hot tea.

I spread everything onto the dining room table.

But first I look at all the entries that I have made,

from the previous year.

It's a year in review for me because

my calendar is like a diary.

I write everything on the calendar.

It's fun to see what day someone's birthday falls on.

As I write their name, I think about them and say a prayer for them.

I also write down special events that have happend.

This year I added the birth

of our third grandchild,

Ila May!

My new calendar is up and waiting for new appointments and special events.

I also decided to get a new address book.

I have been ripping the return addresses off of envelopes and

throwing them in the drawer.

Look at my new address book!

Well, it's not a cute Susan Branch book,

but look closely...

It's large print!

So much easier for Tom to read.

(and me)

Happy New Year!

Play Time

2011-12-30T10:04:00.000-08:00

I was invited to go and play with the grandchildren.

It was an early play date, 7:30 AM.

Good thing I'm an early riser.

This play area is at the Mall. We were the first to arrive.

I tried to keep up...

Seems like all I could get was the rear ends.

Still trying!

OK... got an action shot, still the backside.

Yea! A front shot. Got to be quick.

I need a nap!

Kimmy is really good about quickly posting her pictures.

You can see more here.

Later that evening we went out for dinner.

Tom and I are still watching our diets.

We found a Vietnamese Noodle Soup restaurant.

Mmmmm Good!

Even Ila May enjoyed sipping.

It was a fun day!

It Was Time

2011-12-28T06:22:00.000-08:00

Christmas tree needles were dropping like Seattle rain.

Time for the tree to be dismantled.

Ornaments taken down and put away.

Carpet was vacuumed at least three times.

Just when I thought "Christmas" was all put away,

I found one tree ornament and

the missing bale of hay for a nativity.

Whew!

Now I can enjoy a few more days before

heading back to work.

Christmas 2011

2011-12-26T22:49:00.000-08:00

Christmas Eve Day

Christmas Eve day started early at our home.

Todd and Stephanie arrived at 8:00 AM. with their dogs.

After breakfast, we opened our gifts to each other.

We then headed to Tom's sister's home.

Kimmy posted about this event here.

But first a nap and a football game.

Christmas morning.

Todd, Stephanie and I woke up early to be at

Kimmy and Mark's home before the kids woke up.

(Tom came after work. He worked the graveyard shift)

We wanted to be there when Lulu and Levi

saw the tree and packages.

Here we are at Kimmy and Mark's home,

which is only a few blocks away from our home.

That's Todd, Stephanie and Mark's mom, Connie.

You can see more pictures over at Kimmy's blog, here.

Thank goodness I have a daughter who takes

great pictures.

More celebrating with family, friends and neighbors,

back over at our home later on

Christmas day.

It was a long but fun day.

Connie and I both ended up a bit goofy.

Way to much sugar!

I love spending time with family and friends.

It was a great celebration.

Merry Christmas

2011-12-23T20:01:00.000-08:00

Blessings and Joy

to you and your family.

Luke 2:14

Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace,

good will toward men.

Lulu & Grammie Goo

2011-12-20T19:44:00.000-08:00

Take some Kisses...

Along with some pretzels...

Start a hardy fire...

Even if it's on the computer.

Hey, I'm all about memories.

And when it comes to grandchildren,

I'll do just about anything.

Add some busy hands.

You get a smile!

Today I invited Lulu over to

help me create some candy gifts.

Simple but oh so delicious!

We had so much fun and

the candy turned out beautiful!

Some even went home with her.

2011-12-19T06:55:00.000-08:00

A glimpse of our Christmas tree

reminds me of seeing the star.

Matthew 2:10

"When they saw the star, they were overjoyed."

Google image

Anticipation!

Queen for a Day!

2011-12-15T19:30:00.000-08:00

A few weeks ago the staff at my school, were given

"Make a Wish" forms to fill out.

You could make a wish for yourself or someone else.

Several teachers asked for speciality coffees and

they were delivered to their classrooms.

When I came to work this morning, a red "carpet"

was rolled out from the door, all the way down to my office door.

Waiting for me at the door was a crown, sitting on a pillow.

I couldn't believe it!

On my office window was a sign that

declared my office as,

The castle of Queen Christine I.

Someones wish was that I be,

Queen for a Day.

The band came and played "God Save the Queen".

I received flowers and a sash.

Students, teachers and anyone else close by, took out their cameras.

All I could do was smile and wave.

"I Go To the Sea to Breath"

2011-12-12T08:22:00.000-08:00

Starting the trip with birthday flowers from Tom

Celebrating my birthday,

Tom and I took a road trip to my favorite place.

The Oregon coast.

Our first destination was Newport, Oregon.

We have never been there and heard it was beautiful.

It was nearing sunset and I couldn't wait!

Faster Tom, FASTER!

Newport Oregon, first stop. Wow!

Our hotel, Sylvia Beach Hotel

"The Travler's Life List" by Patricia Schultz lists the Sylvia Beach Hotel one of,

"A 1,000 Places To See Before You Die".

This 1912 hotel has only 20 guest rooms but they are decorated to honor classical authors i.e. Mark Twain, Ernest Hemingway, Oscar Wilde and Agatha Christie. There are no telephones, TV sets or radios in the rooms. This ancient hotel has no elevator. Tea, coffee, books, puzzles and games are located on the top floor.

We stayed in the Agatha Christie room.

Dinner our first night was here at the Green Gables.

Two Italian sisters, serve their Grandma's recipes.

Happy 60th Birthday!

Full moon on the Ocean.

Sunrise, looking at our hotel,

while on my morning walk/run, on the beach.

When I got back, Tom had a warm,

cozy fire waiting for me.

Tom telling Kimmy all about our room

and view from the deck.

We left Newport and headed north, up the coast.

A must stop is the Tillamook Cheese factory.

Shopping (Christmas) in a room full of all kinds of cheeses.

Then off to Cannon Beach!

STOP!

Our first sighting of Haystack Rock.
(Tom understands my love of this beach!)

Room with a view

Still celebrating!

We walked everyday down to Haystack Rock.
One mile down, one mile back.

Picture perfect, sunset at Haystack!

Downtown Cannon Beach:

Homes around town:

Our traditional Crab Dinner!

We buy a fresh crab and enjoy it at our dining table,

while looking at the ocean view.

Thank you Tom for the best birthday ever!

We will be back because...

I go to the sea to breath!

Remodel - Before and After Pictures

2011-12-08T00:01:00.000-08:00

The Before pictures

We "remodeled" ourselves and not our home.

Tom and I have lost weight.

Both of us are turning 60 and we wanted to give each other something special.

Not a ring, or car, or trip but health!
We joined Weight Watchers last August.

Every Saturday morning we get up and go weigh in.

Every Saturday morning we go home pleased.

I feels great!

Now the After Pictures...

Last January I freaked when I weight myself.
I couldn't believe I had gotten so heavy.
At that moment, I knew I wanted to have my sixtieth birthday as the goal.
You know, "By my birthday I want to loose (fill in the blank)".
That meant I had one whole year to loose the weight. Easy!
No it wasn't.
It was going so s-l-o-w and time was not on my side.
To help me, I plastered the number 60 all over our home.
I had them everywhere.
They were put up as a reminder to work on loosing weight before my birthday.
One day, Tom asked me about all the numbers.
So I told Tom my pathetic story.
He looked me in the eyes and said,
"Let's join Weight Watcher!"
That was about 4 1/2 months ago.

As of today I have dropped three dress sizes.
That's about 30 pounds!

Guess what today is?
It's my birthday and I made it!
I am a happier and healthier me.

I'm Sixty and a size Sassy!

Tom and I have taken off on another
road trip to celebrate.
When we come back
I'll be ready for Christmas.

Months of Remodeling

2011-12-06T04:11:00.000-08:00

Tom and I are in the process of remodeling.

We have learned how to use the right tools.

We worked out our plans.

Google Images

But we aren't finished, yet!

Next post, I will reveal our progress.

Joyful

2011-12-05T20:07:00.000-08:00

Look what came in the mail today!

I couldn't believe it!

Mary at Corner of My Life, sent this to me.

Or should I say, my grandchildren.

This was such a wonderful surprise.

I can't wait to open and play with it.

Excuse me...

I have to go and set up this new nativity scene.

I'm sure I'll be busy for awhile.

The Lights of Christmas

2011-12-04T10:48:00.000-08:00

At Walmart getting rain poncho

My girlfriends and I pick a day to celebrate our birthdays together.

Each year we find something fun, that we can do together.

This year we went to

to see the Lights of Christmas.

But first, we had to stop at Walmart to pick up rain ponchos.

How could we forget our umbrellas?

We do live in Seattle!

I took over 100 pictures but I will spare you and show just the highlights.

Each walkway was lit up with strands of lights,

like the ones above.

Below is a close up of the above.

Oh yes, we used our ponchos.

Umbrellas just don't work when you are constantly looking up.

This was a moving light show.
Sun rise... sunset.

All along the trails were fire pits

so you could stop and warm up.

This tree was one of my favorite light displays.

I named it the Drippy Tree.

What Did You Do Today?

2011-12-03T11:23:00.000-08:00

I went to get my drivers license renewed this morning.

The doors opened at 8:30 AM. I arrived at 8:00 AM,

only to find a long line already waiting.

But I was entertained, by watching the new drivers,

getting ready to take their drive test.

I watched a person flunk their hand signals.

This person was asked to show the signal for a right hand turn.

They proceed to extend their right arm, straight out, towards the passenger window!!

I gasped and the guy in front of me said, I thought I was the only one who saw that.

This person continued to entertain all of us until the doors opened.

(This person also flunked using their turn signal lights.)

Once inside we all waited our turn.

Hey, I'm getting pretty good at taking pictures on the sly.

I'm next. That's my number.

Heading to booth #9.

OK... this is the embarrassing part.

Yes, I kept most of my drivers licenses.

Each time I try to take a better picture.

Each year it just gets worse.

This is what I would rather be doing...

It's Beginning To Look...

2011-11-30T07:03:00.000-08:00

~ Nativities ~

Some are permanently set up.

Some need assembling.

Some for little hands

Some are waiting.

Thanksgiving - On Friday

2011-11-26T10:04:00.000-08:00

Nine O'clock, Tom getting the turkey ready.

Ten O'clock, Kimmy and family came to help, work and play.

(We taped the Macy's Parade and watched it Friday morning.)

Mark brought his work...

Lulu worked on place cards

Had to show you a close up of mine, love it!

Three O'clock, everyone arrived.

We ate around 4:00
It was hard to get a picture of everyone around the table all at once.

Lot's of good conversations.

Later ...

Tom back at the sink.

Dishes all cleaned and

ready to put away.

Another great time at Thanksgiving.

Stop by Kimmy's blog.

She has a lot more

pictures to share.

Happy Thanksgiving - Almost Ready

2011-11-24T10:06:00.000-08:00

We moved things around.

I shopped the house for centerpieces.

Found these Cottages that I have been collecting.
So I sprinkled them down the center of the tables.

Need to add the silverware and glasses

and a few more borrowed chairs.

Last minute details but I'm ready

and so excited to spend time

with my family!

Happy Thanksgiving!

Kimmy Sings!

2011-11-20T16:14:00.000-08:00

Kimmy was asked to be apart of a one-time-only,

Women's Choir, at her Church.

Kimmy is third from the right

Growing up I rarely heard her sing or even hum.

(Well, there was that one time)

So of course I was there to take pictures for a post!

Kimmy wanted Lulu & Levi to see their mother

singing in front of others.

At home Kimmy has Lulu & Levi practice their singing,

as part of their Home School.

Each has their own X on the floor where they stand and preform.

Kimmy sings for God.

Kimmy is teaching Lulu & Levi, it's fun to sing for others.

Kimmy also makes her own mother's heart sing with happiness!

Arthur

2011-11-18T20:14:00.000-08:00

This is a picture of Arthur and Lucy, our dogs.

Arthur is 9 lbs and Lucy is 3 lbs.
Both are Yorkies.

Arthur has been very sick lately .

This is picture of Arthur in happier days.

He had just gotten a hair cut and looks so handsome.

This is the usually "boyish" look.

We don't know how much longer we will have him around

and it's been a very difficult to think that we will loose Arthur.

The vet said to keep him comfortable.

His last days are full of hugs, loving whispers, kisses and

licks of ice cream.

You can visit here to read about Arthur's story.

Time To Give Thanks

2011-11-13T20:08:00.000-08:00

Time for me to say Thank You to all the Mom's who

help me out, volunteering, in my office.

Trader Joes has the best honey and the cute,

little bees were a natural to use as my theme.

(love a theme!)

Thanksgiving is a great time to show

my appreciation to theses Moms,

who help me out everyday.

Several Moms have been with me

the same three years as their students.

My job would be so much harder with out the support of these 10 women.

I had fun creating the gift bags.

I used white lunch bags from the Dollar Store.

(They have come in handy several times.)

The Bee siticker that were a must.

Here are some past gifts
I have given to the Volunteers.

Here - Here - Here

Start to Finish

2011-11-11T19:30:00.000-08:00

We have had this Apple tree in our front yard for years.

This year I pruned the Apple tree properly (the right way) and

we got apples for the first time!

This picture was taken back in September.

I love the American flag is in the background,

but as you can see we got a lot of apples.

I wasn't going to pick the apples but

Todd, our son, persisted that I pick them.

They aren't very good for eating.

So I made apple sauce in my crock pot.

Cooking applesauce made the whole house smell so good!

Girls Night and Boys Night

2011-11-10T05:08:00.000-08:00

Kimmy invited me to a Baby Shower

she was having for a neighbor, who is having a little girl.

Here's a little back ground story about Kimmy.

Growing up she really wasn't interested in cooking.

I would tease her by saying that she didn't

even know where to find the kitchen.

So much has changed!
Kimmy now decorates, sews, bakes, cooks and
even has taught her daughter where the kitchen is.
Here is Lulu is making the punch.

I was surprised at how creative Kimmy is.
She made a Diaper Cake.

Lulu added her touches by decorating
the cake with bows and toys.

I am so happy to see how Kimmy has grown into such a

graceful young lady who serves God with love.

*******

While the Girls partied, the Boys,

(husband Tom, son-in-law Mark and

Grandson Levi), spent time over at our home.

Mark is so computer savvy.

Remember Tom's dinosaur of a computer?

It took up have of half of the room.

We had a flat screen and newer computer

that I used before I got my laptop.

Mark combined all of Tom's "stuff" and

transferred it to the newer computer.

The newer computer now sits on Tom's desk.

Look at the room on his desk.
And there is room for more stuff.

That leaves me with room for my sewing machine!

I'm a happy girl.

Thanks Mark!

A fun night for both Girls and Boys!

Date Night With Lulu

2011-11-03T20:29:00.000-07:00

Lulu all dressed up and waiting for us to pick her up.

Last Thursday night, Lulu asked Papa if he

would take her on a date to Applebee's.

I was also invited along.
So tonight was the night.

This was a big deal for Lulu and us.

This was the first time Lulu had been away from Mom or Dad, ridden in our car,

and to a restaurant without her parents.

Lulu had her new dress on with necklace and a ring.

She brought along a tiny doll for company.

Her car seat was in place and she was eager to take off.

One last good-by to the family.

First order was to color.

Then to try the lemon.

Lulu had told her mother, she knew what she wanted for dinner,

Chicken Cesar Salad.

That's what she ordered.

She also had a few helpings of Grammie-goo's shrimp.

Here we are looking at the dessert menu.

Looks like I'm a little excited.

Lulu decided on a Strawberry Cheesecake

Of course it had a cherry on top!

Date Night with Papa was fun.

Thanks Papa!

The evening was exciting but it was time to go.

Her carriage took her back home to

Mommy & Daddy,

Levi and Ila May.

First Fire

2011-10-31T18:22:00.000-07:00

Every Halloween we would have a fire.

When tired and cold children came home,

we would sit around the fire and eat pumpkin pie.

Some traditions are funny, aren't they.

Tonight, Tom and I are alone.

But we still had our first fire.

We even had dinner by the fire.

Long after dinner, Lucy was still basking in the glow.

Funny how some traditions still carry on.

A Special Request

2011-10-25T16:38:00.000-07:00

When do ordinary hard boiled eggs

become something to jump up and down about?

When you add stickers!

Many of you know that Tom & I live very close to

our son-in-law & daughter, Lulu, Levi and Ila May.

(I know I am blessed and there isn't a day that goes by that I don't remember this.)

I babysit my grandchildren on a regular basis.

I treasure these times.

When I was leaving the last time I babysat,

Levi was trying to tell me something and

I just couldn't understand his little words.

Kimmy translated for me.

Levi wanted me to drop off a "snack" for him on the doorstep.

(I love to drop off little surprises, on my way to work).

Well, that's all I had to hear.

But I was all out of the regular goodies.

"light bulb moment"

He loves hard boiled eggs!

So I added little stickers to them.

He loved them.

Especially, the "Beetle" car sticker.

Check out Kimmy's blog post for Levi's reaction.

The Unsuspecting Piano Bench

2011-10-25T05:05:00.000-07:00

This is Tom's chair.

See Lucy on Tom's chair.

See the footstool she uses to climb onto the chair.

See the Piano Bench?

Very unsuspecting, right?

Open both Piano Bench and Footstool...

and it becomes the Art Center,

at certain times.

It's also the work center when the game is on.

Prized Piece of Jewlery

2011-10-23T14:46:00.000-07:00

Lulu (grand daughter) made me this bracelet.

So colorful...

Look at the detail work.

A treasured piece of jewelry,

that I am pleased to wear.

The Big Year and Birding

2011-10-18T04:57:00.000-07:00

Tom and I went to the the movies last Saturday night.

For all my Bird Friends, this is a fun movie.

It was entertaining and a funny movie for the whole family.

If you are a bird lover, like me,

you just might see that bird you've been looking for.

These pictures are from my kitchen window,

the other day.

"Use the talents you possess -

for the woods would be a very silent place

if no birds sang except for the best."

~Henry Van Dyke

"I value my garden more for being full of blackbirds than of cherries,

and very frankly give them fruit for their songs."

~Joseph Addison~

"A bird does not sing because it has an answer.
It sings because it has a song."

~Chinese Proverb~

Matthew 6:25-27

“Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? ²⁶ Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? ²⁷ Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life?"

A Visit to the new Fire Station

2011-10-16T14:05:00.000-07:00

It's Fire Prevention Week

and look what was happening...

a new Fire Station and Open House.

We all went to see the new Fire House.

Fire hats are a must!

We took a tour of the building, inside and out.

Inside those big doors were a few emergency vehicles.

The children could climb inside all of them and see what it was like.

We also saw the living quarters, TV room, kitchen, laundry and bedrooms.

Heading home...

what a fun adventure.

I think Levi and Lulu will remember today.

Visit Kimmy's blog, here for more fun.

Laughs and Loves

2011-10-08T09:16:00.000-07:00

Laughs:

On the back of this bus was a picture puzzle to read.

I had Tom slow down so I could figure it out.

When I did I knew I had to take a picture.

Second laugh:

This "bumper sticker" was at the vets.

Again, I knew I had to take a picture.

Loves:

Our grandchildren...

Lulu, Ila May and Levi

Who Needs a Gym? Not Me!

2011-10-01T20:01:00.000-07:00

Thirty Five Steps and Three Landings

I helped my friend move into a new apartment this past week.

Tuesday, I went up and down 25 times caring clothes and boxes

Wednesday, I went up and down 20 times caring boxes, pictures and lamps.

Today she needed my help to rearrange and hang pictures.

She is finally in!

Friday Night High School Football.

After the game, our local Police Department sponsored

an Ice Cream Social, in the school cafeteria.
They do this, so the students have a place to party, responsibly.

This is our school kitchen where I scooped ice cream.

Lots of ice cream.

This is the ice cream that I scooped.

230 dishes, with two scoops.

There was plenty for everyone.

Candy, cookies, sauces and topped off with whipped cream.

This week I had a great work out.

I mastered the stairs and dug rock, hard ice cream.

Gym? Not me!

Roslyn or Northern Exposure?

2011-09-26T18:17:00.000-07:00

It's BOTH!

The city, Roslyn and the old T.V. show.

Tom and I took a day trip to Roslyn Washington.

It's where the T.V. show Northern Exposure was filmed.

All is quiet now...

but Tom wanted you to know the he was there.

Below is the final scene from the T.V. show that ended in 1995.

Laughs and Loves

2011-09-24T08:59:00.000-07:00

Laughs:

While driving this week, I noticed this car's "Bumper Sticker".

When I got closer, I saw that it was a homemade

Bumper Sticker.

(shaking my head and while at a stoplight,

I got my camera out)

This is what is said.

"I'm So Foreign my Car Has An accent"

I'm still shaking my head.

Loves:

This week I recieved a gift from Brenda,

who's blog is called It's A Beautiful Life.

Notice how she matched the ribbon colors with the book.

Brenda has a beautiful blog and loves to share

her passion for writing and giving.

Thank you Brenda!

Flower Delivery

2011-09-16T19:18:00.000-07:00

This is the "Children's Garden" just outside the kitchen window.

It's were the birds congregate,

tomatoes are picked by little fingers.

I grow pink Dahlias for a little girl,

who's favorite color is ....pink.

Today, I delivered a bouquet flowers to Lulu,

before I went to work.

I cut them really early in the morning.

When everyone was still asleep,

I drove over and left the flowers on their front porch.

Then I hurried off to work before anyone saw me.

Surprise!

This is the view from my kitchen window when I got home today.

Look who stretched it's pink head to look at me.

It makes me think of Lulu.

Simple Pleasure - Clean Refrig

2011-09-14T17:48:00.000-07:00

Cleaned my refrigerator the other day and it felt great!

I take all the produce out of their plastic bags

and put them in wicker baskets.

It's so handy to pull out the basket to find the

right vegetable or fruit.

Plus, I like the way it looks.

Dayle, over at A Collection of This and That,

is hosting Simple Pleasures.

Please join us every Thursday.

Remembering...

2011-09-10T08:51:00.000-07:00

Celebrating Levi's 2nd Birthday

2011-09-07T19:58:00.000-07:00

We celebrated Levi's 2nd Birthday at our home.

First, the family picture.

The weather was excellent, sunny and very warm.

Hip Hip Horray, Summer has arrived in the Pacific Northwest!

Let's Party!

This is what 2 years old looks like, cute!

Levi opened one present before dinner.

Uncle Todd is a "Rugby Guy".

So, of course Levi got his first rugby ball.

It was really warm, so we got the pool out.

Lulu is going to check on The Children's Garden.

Lots of good picking to be found.

Tomatoes!

Aunt Stephanie was right there with the little ones.

Car rides...

Swinging...

Smiles...

presents...

Connie (Mark's mom) and Ila May...

Aunt Stephanie and Ila May...

Tom and Arthur...

Todd and me...

Kimmy and Ila May...

Time for CAKE (cupcakes)

Lulu and Levi got to decorate

their own cupcake.

Levi was more interested in eating his decorations.

He could do what ever he wanted.

After all, it was his birthday!

This Week's Loves and Laughs

2011-09-04T16:00:00.000-07:00

Laughs: Tom heading to the store wearing

cut off jeans,white socks and Zories.

Loves: The sunflower,

that the birds planted, has opened up.

It looks like it's hugging the feeder.

Laughs: Tom caught me in the morning before work.

Loves: Homegrown tomatoes!

Parking Lot Gardening

2011-08-30T05:06:00.000-07:00

This is parking spot # 39,

my parking spot at the school where I work.

I have been parking next to this tree for 7 years.

For 7 years, nobody has taken care of the garden.

This is a view from the other side.

This past weekend, I decided I would do a little gardening.

I pruned, pulled, and weeded.

Added some much needed dirt.

Re-purposed some pots and flowers from home.

And Ta Da!!!
Best looking parking lot garden in the place.

I even have a step to cross across over the garden.

No more muddy shoes.

All this was possible because of "good guy"... Tom (husband).

I couldn't of done it without him.

He thinks I crazy but he loves me.

By the way, school (students are back) starts this Wednesday!

Sign of the Times

2011-08-27T11:02:00.000-07:00

Have an old, unused vehicle?
"No problem!"

Our local Fruit Market has THE best signs.

This one says,

Making a Difference By Living

La Vida Local

Another sign from the Fruit Market.

I thought this was cute,

Seeds included!

Old fashion flavor!

I couldn't believe what I was reading!

Sexy Kitchens???

Just had to see for myself these sexy, kitchen condos.

How would you like to have this sign hanging above your balcony?

Well, that's it for now.

I'm sure there will be more off beat signs

and I probably will be taking their pictures.

A Simple Pleasure - Volunteers

2011-08-24T14:44:00.000-07:00

The birds have been feasting all summer long.

Most of the seeds have been eaten.

Even the ones that were dropped.

This Sunflower was grown from one single seed that a bird missed.

I call these plants, the ones I didn't plant, Volunteers.

They are my garden surprises!

A Simple Pleasure, for sure.

Dayle, over at A Collection of This and That,

is hosting Simple Pleasures.

Please join us every Thursday.

Birthday Gift

2011-08-21T12:46:00.000-07:00

(He looks like he has four wings, just the shadow.)

This Dragonfly dropped dead and landed on our patio.

Perfectly intact.

What do you do with such a beautiful, huge bug?

Give it to my Sister-In-Law,

Tamar, as a birthday gift..

She LOVES Dragonflies!

Remember her wedding?

He looks great mounted in a shadow box.

Even added some special touches to the bag.

Sometimes God just drops you
a present!

Bag Lady

2011-08-18T20:35:00.000-07:00

Today at work,

I was Bag Lady.

Birds of a Feather

2011-08-18T04:45:00.000-07:00

House Finch

House Sparrow

Dark-eyed Junco

Goldfinch - Male

Humming Bird -close up

Humming Bird from a distance

Just had to include Arthur,

who loves to sit in the window sill,
while Tom works in the office.

Black-capped Chickadee

I made a "watering hole" for these birds from a tuna can and wire.
They love it, because it's sturdy and easy to drink from.
Plus, you can hang it just about anywhere, branches of trees, tomato cages or fences.
And so easy to make!

Love To Watch My Birds!

Back in the Swim of Things

2011-08-16T05:00:00.000-07:00

Retreat Time!

At the beginning of the school year,

the school district's office staff,

gets together to be inspired and motivated.

This year was the BEST ever!

I have been emcee
for this annual retreat for four years

and this was my "swan song".

(last year's retreat and the year before)

Our theme for this year was

"Just Keep Swimming".

We had Charthouse come and present,

FISH! Philosophy.

We had fish were everywhere.

Room Before

After - Room Decorated

Before

After

The colorful, stuffed fish were provided by
one of the Junior High School's Art department.

Our speaker, Steve Mintz

Door prize drawing.

A fish bowl with every one's name inside.

I used painter's tape on the outside of the bowl

and drew little fish on the tape.

Each lady received a specially, designed fish note pad, pen, fish tattoos and shark candy.

We kept things plain and simple but fun.

Steve Mintz (an Adam Sandler look-a-like)

was exciting, funny and engaging.

Looked who dressed like him.

(Just a funny coincidence.)

My question....

How can we top this retreat, next year?

~*~*~*~*~*~

Now for my thoughts about concept of FISH! Philosophy.

When I started my job six years ago,

I knew I wanted to make a difference.

Plus, I needed to look forward to going to work everyday.

Then I came across the FISH! Philosophy.

My faith in God is strong. I knew He would be with me, always.

But FISH! Philosophy, is about giving me permission to be me, while at work.

These are the four FISH! fundamentals:

To Play

To Be There

To Make Their Day

To Choose My Attitude

I have spent the last six years implementing these four points into my job.

I believe that God has used me to make a difference, while I useing this philosophy.

This school year, I'm going to "Just Keep Swimming".

Reward After My First Work Week

2011-08-13T14:43:00.000-07:00

Date Night for Kimmy and Mark.

They dropped off Lulu and Levi for an overnight.

We had "Porter House" Pancakes.

and opened a carton of milk.

We dined inside with Lulu and Levi as our entertainment.

~*~*~*~*~

In the morning, we bundled up and had coffee on the patio.

This is Levi's first time drinking coffee over

at Papa and Gramie-Goo's house.

Looks like Lulu needs another cup of coffee.

Cinnamon Toast is a must in the morning.

We even made up a song about it.

(Papa is up to his old pranks)

After breakfast we strolled around the block.
We always walk with a bag or basket.
You never know when you might find a treasure.

Lulu stopped and wanted her picture taken by this
"beautiful house".

Little did she know, that this was the home of

our good friends, who now live in Dalhart, TX.

~*~*~*~

An art project to take home.

It was a great way to finish
my first week back at work.

( I really need to kiss those cuties more!)

Playtime is Over

2011-08-06T16:46:00.000-07:00

What a great time I've had this summer.

Going to places I've never been before and

doing things I that I never expected to do.

At the beginning of my Summer,

I read a blog post from Janette Sage.

She didn't know it, but at the time she challenged me.

Her words were:

"Now, isn't life just too short to miss those "taking advantage of the fun around us!" events? It doesn't have to be an event that makes the papers or Internet, but something that creates a story for everyone to tell and re-tell for years to come....the "do you remember when?" type of tales.

Here's the challenge I took;

What "taking advantage of the fun around us" event have you been a part of lately?"

My theme (love a theme) for the summer was set.

We (husband and I) were going to go & do.

I'm always telling everyone to make memories.

This time it was me who was going to make memories.

Tom and I spent most every week in July,

seeking some sort of fun that would create a memory.

But now...

it's back to work for me and I have mixed emotions, again.

My prayer is,

God show me where you want me.

Simple Pleasure - The Bunny Hop

2011-08-03T20:34:00.000-07:00

Tom and I were sitting outside, enjoying one of the few

sunny afternoons we had so far this summer,

when I looked up and saw...

a Bunny!

A Bunny hopping over a "bush".

Then it quickly disappeared.

We laughed and found more animals.

But not as good as the

Bunny doing the Bunny Hop.

Dayle, over at A Collection of This and That,

is hosting Simple Pleasures.

Please join us every Thursday.

The Mountain is Out!

2011-08-02T09:17:00.000-07:00

"The Mountain is out",

is a popular saying we have here in the Seattle area.

It means you can see Mt. Rainier.

So Tom and I took the two hour drive up to the mountain.

It was an unbelievable, beautiful drive.

We stopped for lunch at this

roadside cafe.

Thirty years ago Tom & I would stop here after

skiing at Crystal Mountain.

Same booth.

Mt. Rainier is in a National Park.

Tom wanted me to post this picture.

Ah, the mountain.

As we got closer, the mountain it got bigger and bigger

This picture is NOT enlarged!

(double click for a closer view)

We reached our goal of Paradise Lodge

Visitors come here to hike up the mountain or just sit and gaze.

We visited the Jackson Visitor Center

and got quiet an education about the history of

Mt. Rainier.

Mt. Rainier

or as our children use to say,

"Mt. Right Near"

Today is was very near!

This Norwegian Was Scottish Today

2011-07-30T21:13:00.000-07:00

The 65th Anniversary of the

Scottish Highland Games & Clan Gathering

There was something going on all the time.

Judging individuals for

Drum and Bagpipe competition.

We heard hundreds bagpipes playing everywhere we went.

Highland Dancing Competition

These girls are doing The Highland Fling.

Scottish Athletic Events

Putting the Stone

This is an actual rock (stone), similar to a Shot Put

Scottish Hammer

They swing around & around this maul-like

hammer, as far as they can.

(top of picture is the hammer)

The Sheaf Toss

Using a pitch fork, they fling the sheaf

(a bundle of straw in burlap),up over the cross bar.

They keep raising the bar.

"Big Daddy" won the Hammer toss.

He's huge!

The Celtic Kennel

Irish Wolf Hound

This lady went all out to decorate her dog kennel.

She made it to look like the front door of a Scottish home.

A Taste of Scotland

Ever had Haggis?

The famous Scottish Meat Pies.

No plate needed. The meat is baked into the pastry.

Oh - so - yummmy!

So many different kinds of Kilts.

This couple dressed alike.

This is just a small part of the Clan Tents and Societies.

Each Clan (family) has their own tartan (plaid).

The clans set up tents to display everything about their heritage.

Did you know that there are over 2,200

different types of tartans (plaids).

Leaving you with some of the Bagpipe music.

Simple Pleasure-Watering Can

2011-07-27T21:09:00.000-07:00

My Summer Simple Pleasure for today is
watering flowers with my new watering can.

Here in the Pacific Northwest, we have had

rain almost everyday this summer.

Today we had sun!

So, I had to try out my new watering can.

Dayle, over at A Collection of This and That,

is hosting Simple Pleasures.

Please join us every Thursday.

Bozman or Bust!

2011-07-25T13:33:00.000-07:00

"Want to go see our new van?", asked Kimmy.

"Sure!", I said.

"It's in Bozman,Montana!", answered Kimmy.

"That's 552 miles, one way!", I said.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Thus, was the start of our long weekend adventure.

Along the way we missed the "Opportunity" exit.

Didn't take the Tokio exit either.

Drove by Manhattan and Amsterdam.

Little difficult to read but...

no, we didn't go to the Testicle Festival.

We were going to Bozman, Montana to

pick up a new vehicle !

Cute... but not this one!

A Red, 15 passenger van, nicked named,

Bozman by Lulu.

Mark just calls in Bozo.

Here we are right after Mark signed the papers, driving away.

After a 24 hours driving, the windshield is pretty messy.

And being in the car that long,

you go a bit stir crazy.

So you take pictures of your daughter, taking picture of you.

Our second night, on our way back home,

we stayed with Aunt Linda

(my sister-in-law, husband Tom's sister)

Aunt Linda has a cutest studio apartment in Missoula, Montana.

Yee Haw, Cowboy

Before we left to go back home,

Aunt Linda took us on a tour of her city.

Look, we all can fit in one car!

We said our good-by's and then headed home.

Lunch break...

for entertainment I handed over my camera to

4 year old Lulu.

Kimmy, buy her a camera, she's good!

Scenes from the road trip:

Windmills in Eastern Washington

Coeur d'Alene, Idaho

Cascade Mountains, Washington

So, the next time you head out on a road trip

be sure to take your camera.

You never know where you will find....

(Google pictures)

Kimmy has a lot more of our adventures

over on her blog.

More Raspberries...

2011-07-20T15:51:00.000-07:00

Tom and I took Bob & Tamar out to celebrate

their 2nd wedding anniversary.

Tamar said she read my blog (while working out... go Tamar!)

about our trip to Lynden.

"Why don't you go and pick the Raspberries at

the house?"

Did she say Raspberries?

I'm so there!!

Raspberry Freezer Jam!!

(Thank you Tamar. You will be getting some jam.)

Did you say Raspberry? I'm THERE!

2011-07-17T11:14:00.000-07:00

It was raining hard, but we still jumped into the car and headed North.

Raspberries are my favorite!

Anything raspberry and I start doing the happy dance.

"Tom!!! Raspberries!!! Go FASTER!!!"

Lynden Washington is a small Dutch town

with windmills and wooden shoes.

The town is noted for its manicured lawns, flower gardens,

Dutch architecture, and the abundance of Christian Reformed Churches

We seem to go to every car show in our state.

Actually, today there were some great

looking cars and trucks.

The downtown street was closed off for the
3 on 3 basketball tournament.
Little kids, big kids and even bigger kids played.

This is what I came for!

I was so excited!

Raspberries and ice cream for a $1.00!
(and no limits)

On our way home, I spotted this Raspberry farm and

just had to show you!

(click on picture of a closer look)

Janette over at Janette's Sage has inspired me to

"Taking Advantage of the Fun Around Us"

Summer is half way through and I still plan on

taking advantage of the rest of my Summer Vacation,

Rain "' or Shine *

We will go back next year, for sure!
Until then, I'll be dreaming of

Raspberries.

A Star Is Born!

2011-07-15T08:30:00.000-07:00

Tom and I visited a local T.V. show

that is produced in downtown Seattle.

King 5 Television has a morning show called,

New Day Northwest.

We waited in the audience lobby until

it was time to head into the studio.

Once in the studio, we were allowed to take pictures.

But only before, during commercials and after the show.

Getting our instructions on how to clap.

Did you know that T.V. claps are different?

They are faster and longer.

Margaret Larson the host, prepping.

Lights...

Camera...

Action!!

These are pictures in between the segments.

Back Home...

We taped the show and watched it later.

Hey look...that's us!

Simple Pleasure-Butterfly

2011-07-13T17:43:00.000-07:00

Butterfly in flight

It was one of those rare moments.

I was working in our garden, when I saw this beautiful butterfly, fluttering around.

I ran for my camera, in true blogger fashion.

Dayle, over at A Collection of This and That,

is hosting Simple Pleasures.

Please join us every Thursday.

Ballard Seafood Fest

2011-07-11T09:53:00.000-07:00

Feed Your Inner Viking!

Pillage for Seafood!

Get Your Viking On!

May the Norse Be with You!

"Ya, sure, you betcha."

"Uff Ta"...

Being Norwegian, Tom and I practiced
our Norwegian, on the way to Ballard.

It was the 37th Annual Ballard Seafood Fest

Ballard is the Scandinavian suburb of Seattle.

Todd and Stephanie joined us.

Their new home is just a short distance away.

They live so close that they rode their bikes.

Viking Ship

These two are dressed in Danish summer wear.

These two are dressed in ? ? ?

Good-by Todd and Stephanie.

Ha det!

Ha det bra.

Another Adventure with Papa & "Gammie Goo"

2011-07-09T08:16:00.000-07:00

We visited the Zoo.

I remember my grandparents taking me to this same Zoo.

It was raining but... we live in Seattle.

No umbrellas or coats for us.

The Gorilla House

I thought this was a Leopard but it's a Cheetah.

Crocodile not an Alligator

Levi's favorite animal, Turtle.

Grammie Goo's favorite animal, the Giraffe.

Papa's favorite animal, the Grizzle Bear

Flamingos

I had to put both of these pictures on this post...

because of the hearts that these two were making!

So many animals and not enough time.

I guess we will just have to go back.

Simple Pleasure-Cafe Latte

2011-07-07T05:44:00.000-07:00

Caffe Latte

My simple pleasure this week, was to sit outside on the back patio,

sipping an iced latte.

Recipe:

6 C. strong coffee

2 heaping tablespoons of sugar

1 1/2 - 2 C. mixed half and half & whole milk

Measurements are approximate.

Brew a large pot of coffee, and add an extra measure of coffee.

Pour it into a large pitcher and add other ingredients.

It should be strong and milky and slightly sweet.

Refrigerate and serve over ice.

Dayle, over at A Collection of This and That,

is hosting Simple Pleasures.

Please join us every Thursday.

~~Vista Woman~~

Whew! We're In & I'm Back!

Found: One Blue Glove

Downsizing and saying Good-by

No School Means...

First Snow

Did You Know?

Early to Bed, Early to Rise

New Year, New Calendar and more...

Play Time

It Was Time

Christmas 2011

Merry Christmas

Lulu & Grammie Goo

Queen for a Day!

"I Go To the Sea to Breath"

Remodel - Before and After Pictures

Months of Remodeling

Joyful

The Lights of Christmas

What Did You Do Today?

It's Beginning To Look...

Thanksgiving - On Friday

Happy Thanksgiving - Almost Ready

Kimmy Sings!

Arthur

Time To Give Thanks

Start to Finish

Girls Night and Boys Night

Date Night With Lulu

First Fire

A Special Request

The Unsuspecting Piano Bench

Prized Piece of Jewlery

The Big Year and Birding

A Visit to the new Fire Station

Laughs and Loves

Who Needs a Gym? Not Me!

Roslyn or Northern Exposure?

Laughs and Loves

Flower Delivery

Simple Pleasure - Clean Refrig

Remembering...

Celebrating Levi's 2nd Birthday

This Week's Loves and Laughs

Parking Lot Gardening

Sign of the Times

A Simple Pleasure - Volunteers

Birthday Gift

Bag Lady

Birds of a Feather

Back in the Swim of Things

Reward After My First Work Week

Playtime is Over

Simple Pleasure - The Bunny Hop

The Mountain is Out!

This Norwegian Was Scottish Today

Simple Pleasure-Watering Can

Bozman or Bust!

More Raspberries...

Did you say Raspberry? I'm THERE!

A Star Is Born!

Simple Pleasure-Butterfly

Ballard Seafood Fest

Another Adventure with Papa & "Gammie Goo"

Simple Pleasure-Cafe Latte

Vista Woman