Middle Age Madness

Reese's Cupcakes

2012-02-02T12:28:00.000-08:00

My son Jeremy's birthday was in January, I was so sick I wasn't able to make him a cake/cupcakes for his birthday. I felt so bad in all his 32 years I had never not had a cake for him. Well today I finally got his cupcakes made. They are chocolate cake (Duncan Hines) and peanut butter icing (Wilton.com) with a slice of Reese's peanut butter cup. They are great but so so sweet, one is all you need.

Since Jeremy doesn't like his picture taken here is Nicky eating his cupcake!

Chocolate Galore

2012-01-15T18:15:00.000-08:00

I won this huge basket of chocolates at a fundraiser last night. It looks like my diet is going to be delayed a little bit....

What Happens in Heaven When We Pray?

2012-01-11T17:12:00.000-08:00

WHAT HAPPENS IN HEAVEN WHEN WE PRAY?
I received this in an email and I thought it was very inspiring

I dreamt that I went to Heaven and an angel was showing me around. We walked side-by-side inside a large workroom filled with angels. My angel guide stopped in front of the first section and said, ‘ This is the Receiving Section. Here, all petitions to God said in prayer are received.

I looked around in this area, and it was terribly busy with so many angels sorting out petitions written on voluminous paper sheets and scraps from people all over the world.

Then we moved on down a long corridor until we reached the second section.

The angel then said to me, "This is the Packaging and Delivery Section. Here, the graces and blessings the people asked for are processed and delivered to the living persons who asked for them." I noticed again how busy it was there. There were many angels working hard at that station, since so many blessings had been requested and were being packaged for delivery to Earth.

Finally at the farthest end of the long corridor we stopped at the door of a very small station. To my great surprise, only one angel was seated there, idly doing nothing. "This is the Acknowledgment Section, my angel friend quietly admitted to me. He seemed embarrassed." How is it that there is no work going on here? ‘ I asked.

"So sad," the angel sighed. "After people receive the blessings that they asked for, very few send back acknowledgments"

"How does one acknowledge God’s blessings?" I asked?
"Simple," the angel answered. Just say, "Thank you, Lord."

"What blessings should they acknowledge?" I asked.

"If you have food in the refrigerator, clothes on your back, a roof overhead and a place to sleep you are richer than 75% of this world. If you have money in the bank, in your wallet, and spare change in a dish, you are among the top 8% of the world’s wealthy. "

"And if you get this on your own computer, you are part of the 1% in the world who has that opportunity."

"If you woke up this morning with more health than illness… You are more blessed than the many who will not even survive this day. "

"If you have never experienced the fear in battle, the loneliness of imprisonment, the agony of torture, or the pangs of starvation … You are ahead of 700 million people in the world…"

"If you can attend a church without the fear of harassment, arrest, torture or death you are envied by, and more blessed than, three billion people in the world."
"If your parents are still alive and still married…you are very rare."

"If you can hold your head up and smile, you are not the norm, you’re unique to all those in doubt and despair…"

Ok, what now? How can I start?

If you can read this message, you just received a double blessing in that someone was thinking of you as very special and you are more blessed than over two billion people in the world who cannot read at all.

Have a good day, count your blessings, and if you care to, pass this along to remind everyone else how blessed we all are.
ATTN: Acknowledge Dept.

"Thank you Lord, for giving me the ability to share this message and for giving me so many wonderful people with whom to share it."

If you have read this far, and are thankful for all that you have been blessed with, how can you not send it on???? I thank God for everything, especially all my family and friends

A Mother's Love

2012-01-07T15:20:00.000-08:00

I have been pondering on this post for this past week. I love my sons with all my heart. I would do anything for them. I think when they were little like in this picture it was so much easier to fixed their hurts. Kiss their boo boos and make it all better. I now know that the worry we have for our grown children goes so much deeper. Because we can't fix the hurt with just a kiss. I wish it was that easy. All I can do for my grown sons is love them with all my heart and pray for them.
I choose to post this picture of the boys & I because there was a lot of heartache during this time. Their dad had cheated on me for the 2nd time. I had found out I had rheumatoid arthritis. We were living with my parents because money was tight. But there was a lot of joy I had a great family (parents, sister & their family) but the greatest was my boys. I always tried to make it work with their father but in the 90's after yet another affair I knew there was no more fixing to do. My sons were in high school it was time to move on.
But back to the reason for this post, my sons. They have grown into great men. I love them with all my heart. I see them struggling in live I wish I could fix it but...I can't. So this mother gives a lot of love & prayers for my boys.

Book Goals

2012-01-01T17:20:00.000-08:00

My goal for the past few years has been to read 100 books in a year. I have not made my goal yet. This years total is 75. I started the year reading "Fatally Frosted" by Jessica Beck and ended it with "Prey" by Linda Howard. Both good books.

My top five picks for the year are:
1) "Here Burns my Candle" & "Mine is the Night" by Liz Curtis Higgs.
2) "Island of the Blue Dolphins" by Scott O'Dell (one of my childhood favorites)
3) "Night Road" by Kristin Hannah
4) "The Help" by Kathryn Stockett
5) "The Hunger Games" by Suzanne Collins

Does anyone have any suggestions on books for me to read in 2012?

Nicky's 3rd Birthday

2011-12-29T08:58:00.000-08:00

On Dec. 27th Nicholas turned 3 years old

I made his cupcakes

His party was Star Wars themed. I got the light-sabers on amazon.com

Darth Vader (aka Daddy) made an appearance. Even though Nicky said Daddy he still didn't want his picture with Vader. So Allyssa did.

He had a really good time and enjoyed his party. His brother helped with a little cake on the nose.

I love this little guy. He is just so precious

He loved his cupcakes! lol

Nicky's Photo Shoot

2011-12-13T09:35:00.000-08:00

This week I have been working on photo shoots for Nicky. Rosemary (his mama) wants Christmas cards made. These are the best two. My favorite is the top one. And wouldn't you know it, it was the last picture I took.

Lazy Day watching Cat Ballou

2011-12-03T19:09:00.001-08:00

Well I should be out shopping for Christmas but no I had a lazy day in my PJ's. After watching the little man (Nicky) for three days I needed a rest. So I watched Cat Ballou and had a glass of wine. Cat Ballou is a favorite old movie of mine. I don't remember the first time I saw it but I think I fell in "kid love" with the character Clay. The only think that would make today better would be if my sisters where watching it with me!

Book Review and Prayer for my Mom

2011-11-29T14:45:00.001-08:00

I just finished reading "V is for Vengeance". I loved this book. It makes my list of one of Sue Grafton's best. So if you are looking for a good book this is the one to choose!

On to more serious matters, my Mom found out today she has breast cancer. A lump was found last month in her routine mammogram exam. She had biopsy last Tuesday. Today she got the results it is cancer, it's real small about 4mm. She has a chose of having a lumpectomy or mastectomy. With chemo or radiations depending if its in her lymph nodes. I am asking prayer for her at this time and also for my dad since he is not in the best of health.

2011-11-24T08:24:00.001-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving everyone!

2011-11-22T08:59:00.001-08:00

I've always have been fascinated by Bonnie & Clyde. My friend Theresa's husband got me this postcard while in Laughlin. Top car is Bonnie & Clyde's.The bottom one was Al Capone's then later restored by Dutch Schultz.

They are on display at Whiskey Pete's hotel & Casino in Primm NV. If you want to go see them call first because one visit I made they we closed. Someday I hope to see them. 1-800-386-7867

Acorns

2011-11-16T16:22:00.001-08:00

I made these little acorns for my book club tomorrow night. The book we read had a grove of trees so I thought these would fit right it with the book.
I made a much smaller amount than recipe. I didn't need a bunch left over that I had to eat. lol

Melt 1/2 bag of Mini-Chips (5 second interval in the microwave, stirring really good
Dip the flat end of the Hershey's Kiss into melted chocolate and top the bite-size NutterButter
Dip the flat end of a Mini-Chip into the melted chocolate and stick to the NutterButter
* I wish I could remember whose blog I got this recipe from, I would give her credit.

"A" for Allyssa

2011-11-14T11:42:00.001-08:00

Here is a little craft project I did for Allyssa. I had made a pink one for Angelica (forgot to take picture), so Allyssa wanted one too.

I got the A at Michael's for about $3. I used orange paint since that is her favorite color.

I gave it 3 coats of paint

Then I gave her some different choices

She picked the gems (top picture). But you could really customize these to anyone likes. They are so easy to make even kids could make them. Michael's sells all kinds of little pre-painted pieces. Even for boys you could use cars, trucks or animals. The whole project cost very little.

Sunrise

2011-11-04T07:16:00.000-07:00

Beautiful Sunrise this morning~

More painted pumpkins

2011-10-27T09:53:00.000-07:00

We tried to do a sports themed pumpkin for Nicky but unfortunately the rubber stamps I have do not work so well on a round surface.

So he painted his pumpkin with metallic washable paint. His Mama & Daddy were so proud of him.

The extra pumpkin we had, we just added some spider stickers to it!

I am linking to diyshowoff for Fall/Autumn projects

Scorpions

2011-10-23T09:21:00.000-07:00

This is something I would never ever do! I hate scorpions!

I got strung by a scorpion about 6 years ago & my thumb was numb for two months. I used to get a lot in my home. Duh I live in the desert (their home). But when my brothers-in-laws put in my laminate floors they also replaced the strips at the bottom of my doors. NO more scorpions in my house. Which makes a very happy me!

It's looking like a sunflower day.....

2011-10-17T15:35:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was my mother-in-law, Donavee's birthday. I had her & my sons over for dinner. What does she show up with .... sunflowers for me! I told her it's her birthday not mine. She is so sweet. I'm not with her son but she is still my mother-in-law and like a second mom to me. We had a great time & a great dinner. My son Jeremy grilled our steaks to perfection!

Painting Pumpkins

2011-10-16T20:35:00.000-07:00

The kids were out for fall break last week. So the girls & Nicky had a craft day.

Angelica working on her pumpkin.

Nicky cutting Walmart ads out. He was loving this. Good thing this is a skill needed for kindergarten. He's got a couple years to prefect it.

Angelica's Monsters Inc.

Allyssa's ladybug. Nicky wanted to pose with her's, silly boy. I'm not sure why the pose???

My parents 60th Anniversary

2011-10-03T09:36:00.000-07:00

I was in Farmington N.M to celebrate my parents 60th wedding anniversary. They looked so great. I was able to stay a week and I enjoyed every minute of it. Dad's health is declining & I want to spend as much time with him as I can.

We went to St Clair's to celebrate with family & friends

These are the cupcakes my sisters and me made for the party. We had so much fun decorating them. This is just one batch. We made way to much!

This photo was taken in the yard. This is where my dad is the happiest. I am so sorry he has to do dialysis three days a week that leaves him so tried he can't do much any more. I wish I could be there with him all the time to help out.

Nicholas's Show and Tell

2011-09-19T16:50:00.000-07:00

Nicky wanted to do show & tell with his toys since it has been so long. And I have a new camera now. I hated being with out a camera.

He was so serious about showing his cars I couldn't get him to smile.

Here is the racetrack he races his cars on. He loves to play with this.

We will remember ~ 9/11

2011-09-10T19:54:00.001-07:00

Reflections ~

2011-09-06T09:44:00.000-07:00

You would have been 50 today! I can't believe you have been gone almost 5 years. I am reflecting on the good times today with a heavy heart!

Barbie and Ken ~

2011-09-03T11:14:00.000-07:00

Barbie and Ken finally got married. Yeah! To check out their wedding photos go here

Summer

2011-08-26T11:04:00.000-07:00

I am truly starting to dislike summer in a big way! We have had 110+ days all week. Broken heat records even. It is so HOT! The other night my a/c was not working very well & I had a hard time sleeping. My son helped me clean the filters and it is working now. Thank God!

There was a elderly lady in Phoenix who passed away this last week because her A/C went out. So sad. And another idiot mom left her baby in the car in this extreme heat. Thank God someone called the police before it was to late. The little girl is going to be fine.

I am dreaming and longing for fall. I want that first sign of crisp morning air! I can't wait! I keep checking the calendar hoping it will be soon. But no, not yet. I know for us the first sign of coolness doesn't get here until mid October if we are lucky!

Update it is 124 on my back porch right now!

Allyssa's post

2011-08-21T19:30:00.000-07:00

Allyssa made her mom a bracelet out of shrinky dinks jewelry kit. She did a really good job on it!

My cell camera sure takes bad indoor pictures. I hate that my camera quit working. I hope to go shopping soon for a new one.

Bully vs Book

2011-08-17T18:59:00.000-07:00

Bully either wants to eat my book or maybe he wants to read it?

My grandson did name him Bully for a reason!

Red Rock Canyon ~ Vegas part 2

2011-08-16T08:17:00.001-07:00

While in Vegas we went on a tour bus to Red Rock Canyon. When my brother-in-law signed us up for this tour I thought it didn't sound very interesting to me. Boy was I wrong the sites where so beautiful. I wish we could have went back at sunset. I can imagine that they are even more beautiful.

Red Rock is about a 20 minute ride from Las Vegas.

You can even get hiking permits to scale up the side of the mountains

If you look real closely you might see the 2 people who were climbing this mountain

So much beauty painted by God

This last picture I named "The Road to Beauty"

If you want to see a good show is Las Vegas go see Vegas the Show at Planet Hollywood

Las Vegas~ part 1

2011-08-15T09:40:00.001-07:00

This was the first picture taken with my camera and it was also the last. I wanted a new camera and now I need one. This picture is of Lake Mead from our plane. I wanted to get one of the new bridge over Hoover Dam but couldn't get the picture from our little window. Thanks to my sister Cindey for getting this picture for me.

Since my camera died all the rest of my pictures are from my cell phone. Here is the Statue of Liberty in front of the NY NY casino. I have never been to New York to see the real deal but I would love too.

The Eiffel Tower in front of Paris, Las Vegas. I didn't know you can go up in the tower. We didn't get to this trip but maybe next time.

The Stratosphere has been opened since 1996. I have never been brave enough to ride the rides at the top! I'm a little scared of heights!

The Luxor is a beautiful site especially at night!

We didn't get rich on playing the slots at any of the casinos. But we had fun.

Next post Vegas shows and Red Rock Canyon.

In Honor of Shark Week

2011-08-02T09:21:00.000-07:00

Any one remember when they first saw Jaws? I was 15 when it came out. My mom took me and a friend to go see it. The theater was so packed that we had to sit in the 4 row. I loved the movie but it scared me to death at the time. Being a Arizona girl I knew I was pretty safe to go in the water with no ocean in site. Who knew that my youngest son would love these movies when he grew up. I bought him the anniversary edition when it came out to add to his collection!

I may just borrow it to revisit those scary moments!

He also has the dvd "Open Water" I tried to watch this movie but I couldn't finish it. It is based on a true story of 2 drivers who are accidentally left by their tour boat. The suspense is so intense.

Flowers and Mom's Birthday~

2011-08-01T17:03:00.000-07:00

My sister Cindey texted me this picture of my sister Gloria's beautiful flowers. They are so pretty I told them they should make a corsage for our Mother's birthday. So they did and here is the picture of our beautiful Mom wearing it!

This weekend I am flying to Las Vegas to spend a week with my sisters and brother-in-laws. I hope to get some great pictures to share.

My RA~

2011-07-22T08:56:00.001-07:00

My RA (Rheumatoid Arthritis) has been acting up a lot lately. It always seems to go crazy in the summer. After having RA 30 plus years you think I would expect it every summer. But I always hope! I can't believe it has almost been a year since my knee replacement last August. Knee is still working great! Thank God and Dr Cercek!

Hope all is going good for my friends in Blogland! Try to stay cool and have a great weekend!

Arizona Sunset~

2011-07-12T15:01:00.001-07:00

I love our Arizona sunsets. My niece says the top picture looks eerie, I said eerie as in "War of the Worlds" she said exactly. I said I hope not or I would be toast! lol

Appeals panel tosses Arizona man's death sentence

2011-07-08T19:33:00.000-07:00

There was a murder at our Buckeye Library almost twenty years ago. And the other day I saw on the news that the death penalty was thrown out after all this time. This really makes me mad. Here is a link to the news story.
Appeals panel tosses Arizona man's death sentence

It was a very brutal murder and attempted rape of our librarian Kay Blanton, she was stabbed almost 40 times. I was there at the library earlier that day. She was working all alone. And I was going to go back after work. But I went home and took a nap instead or I would have been there during the time of this attack.

She was a very very nice person and didn't deserve to die like this! My heart goes out to her family!

Biggest Dirt Storm Ever~

2011-07-06T07:43:00.001-07:00

We got a crazy dirt storm last night. My niece took these picture as it was moving into her area in Gilbert last night. My poor little great nephew was crying it scared him so. News is saying this may be the biggest dirt storm ever. It was over a mile high and 70 miles wide. I live in the far west valley from Phoenix and it hit my area around 8:30. I didn't get any pictures it was already dark. But boy did it sound like my roof was coming off my house.

Can you imagine trying to drive on the freeways during this storm. It's crazy, you couldn't even see beyond a car or two in front of you. The airport even shut down for a while. If you have ever been to Arizona in the summertime you know to expect these during our monsoon time. But this one was just extra big.

Beloved Pets~

2011-06-25T08:13:00.000-07:00

Here is a collage I did of all my beloved pets. They all passed away within a few years of each other. I only have two cats now, that are my grandkids pets.

I miss each and everyone of you, Precious, C.C., Marilyn the bunny, Donald and Miss Daffy, Calio, Zim, Stuart, and my Bizzy boy!

Lately I feel I am ready for another dog. But I need some repair work done to my fence before I get another. I wouldn't want it to get out and get lost.

I want a girl dog, a smaller breed. Anyone recommend one that is good with kids. Since little Nicky is only two I need one with patience for him. And I like the name Sadie.

Allyssa~

2011-06-21T09:55:00.000-07:00

Please say a prayer tomorrow for my grand daughter Allyssa. She is having surgery to remove her adenoids and tonsils.

UPDATE: Allyssa is doing great! I got her a Justin Bieber magazine to help with her recovery. She was very happy!

Comments

2011-06-19T19:44:00.001-07:00

Anyone else having problems posting comments? I have had problems for the last two days! It is very frustrating!

Shampoo

2011-06-18T16:11:00.000-07:00

Problem solved!!!
I should have figured it out sooner. It's the shampoo I use in the shower. When I wash my hair, the shampoo runs down my whole body. Printed very clearly on the shampoo label it reads, "FOR EXTRA VOLUME AND BODY." I have gotten rid of the shampoo and I am going to start using Dawn dish detergent.Its label reads, "DISSOLVES FAT THAT IS OTHERWISE DIFFICULT TO REMOVE."Problem solved!

Geeze! It sure pays to read the label!

I got this in a email. I hope you get a chuckle out of it, as I did!

Eerie Side of Knotts

2011-06-17T09:48:00.000-07:00

We found this area tucked away in a dark walkway. My son took these pictures late at night right before closing.

I bet during Halloween they really spook this area up.

Looks like this old gunslinger got shot in the head and he also has a green tint to his skin!

White Roses

2011-06-16T10:34:00.001-07:00

I saw the most beautiful white roses in California. I wish I could grow roses but I always manage to kill them. My grandma used to grow them here in hot Arizona. But I don't know her secret. She passed away when I was 15 so I can't ask her. This is my dream to some day grow roses. Maybe I should check at the library for a book on growing them.

California Trip

2011-06-14T13:27:00.000-07:00

Our trip to sunny California wasn't to "sunny" everyday it was in the 60's.

This is Huntington Beach, you can see the pier in the distance.

While we were in Cali, Allyssa celebrated her 11th birthday

Everyone had a little fun burying Joshua in the sand

Little Nicky managed to get sand in everyone's eyes

Everyone had fun but the water was really cold!

The next day we went to Knott's Berry Farm

I had to take the family picture under this beautiful Jacaranda tree. You can see the GhostRider wooden roller coaster in the back ground.

Here is Rosemary with her daughter Angelica! Nicky was scared of Snoopy

Here Nicky is with his own red baron plane

This was a cute show for the little ones. Older kids thought it was boring.....

Allyssa was waiting in line to go on this ride with Nicky. He got scared at the last minute so she was feeling a little silly because she was the oldest on the ride.

Rosemary & Nicky win the race!

This area was in camp snoopy

Nice waterfall

He was the only boy on this ride lol

Nicky loved these cars!

My son Josh and all the kids

These dinosaurs are just west of Indio CA. We stopped on our way home

The kids love these!

Just a little bite!

We had a great time but I am so tired trying to keep up with the young ones that I am glad to be home to relax!

Home Sweet Home

California Here I Come~~

2011-06-09T07:19:00.001-07:00

I am headed to California early tomorrow morning. I will be back next week.

With pictures!

Potty Training

2011-06-08T07:19:00.001-07:00

Little man got his new potty seat to start the process of potty training. Looking at these pictures you can see he doesn't have a clue what his potty seat is for! lol

Feline Humor~

2011-06-02T09:58:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Marilyn

2011-05-31T19:05:00.000-07:00

June 1, 2011 Marilyn Monroe would have celebrated her 85th birthday.

She was a very beautiful woman. I wonder if she had any ideals that she would still be this popular after her death.

I wonder if her death was an accidental over dose or murder!

I have always been fascinated about Marilyn because my Mom named me after her character in "Bus Stop" Except my Mom added an extra r to my name.

Here is a few of my Marilyn collectibles

My late boyfriend was a Marilyn fan. This was his Marilyn phone. It has air that blows her dress up.

So what do you think accident of murder?

Army Man~

2011-05-30T12:33:00.000-07:00

Pictures of my Dad when he was in the Army. In second picture he is looking at a picture of my Mom and my oldest sister Gloria. He was handsome in his army uniform. And he is still handsome today at 83 years old.

I love you Daddy!

Have a safe Memorial Day~

2011-05-28T08:02:00.000-07:00

THANK YOU!

Trial & Error

2011-05-26T10:52:00.000-07:00

We were playing around taking pictures with the door mural I have but they didn't come out like I wanted. To much glare from lights and camera flash. I even turned flash off and it still didn't take good pictures. Live & learn I will search for a solution. Any ideal?

Cupcakes for All~

2011-05-22T08:34:00.001-07:00

I got this book about cupcakes from the library. Nicky and I were looking at all the delicious looking cupcakes. Nicky would point to a picture and then say "ME". I asked him if he wanted to eat these cupcakes and he said "YES" He wanted them all lol

Hiking Estrella Mountains~

2011-05-21T17:42:00.000-07:00

Joshua & Allyssa went hiking in the Estrella Mountains. No I wasn't with them with my RA I can't do hiking. Their mom took this great picture.

Petunia's

2011-05-19T07:15:00.000-07:00

peek a boo bunny!

I love petunias. I don't have a green thumb but I can actually keep these alive! lol

The little Man~

2011-05-17T18:14:00.000-07:00

This is one of the pictures I took for Nicky's mamas Mother's day picture collage. He's just so dang cute!

James Patterson's 10th Anniversary

2011-05-15T17:10:00.000-07:00

Another good read by James Patterson. I read this in 1 day couldn't put it down. I had to know how it ended. Went to bed at 2 am when I was done!

I'll Walk Alone

2011-05-14T08:31:00.001-07:00

I just finished reading "I'll Walk Alone" Another great book by Mary Higgins Clark!

Happy Mother's Day~

2011-05-08T08:57:00.000-07:00

Happy Mother's Day!

PS I can't take credit for this picture I got it off a free desktop background website

Looking for a good book.....

2011-05-07T08:04:00.001-07:00

If you are looking for a good book to read I recommend this book series by Tamera Alexander. They are Christian books set in the 1800's. Each book has different main characters so you can just read one without the others. But I loved them all.

What do you think?

2011-04-29T09:35:00.000-07:00

What did you think of Kate's dress?

I have friends that thought it was too plain and old fashion.

I loved it! The lace was beautiful. Maybe I'm just a plain old fashion girl! lol

And the cake was simply beautiful also! Please tell me what you thought?

Easter fun....

2011-04-24T18:58:00.001-07:00

My church had an Easter egg hunt for the kids. Look at this baseball field full of eggs!

And off they go on the hunt

Here's Nicky and his shadow

He's showing off his eggs

After church we had a picnic in the park. Guess what Nicky's favorite was???yes the cupcakes! He has confetti in his hair thanks to his brother breaking a confetti egg on his head.

We had a great Easter!

Happy Easter~

2011-04-22T18:21:00.001-07:00

I want to wish everyone a very happy Easter. May your day be every thing you hope for.

May you find lots of Easter eggs!

A few of my Easter pretties. I haven't put them out for a few years. Didn't know how Nicky would do with them. He did great and didn't break any!

Have a Happy Easter!

Bookmark for a Mother to be

2011-04-10T19:41:00.000-07:00

My daughter in laws friend is expecting her first baby. I decided to make her a bookmaker with her baby's first ultrasound pictures.

Birthday Gifts~

2011-04-07T19:30:00.000-07:00

My beautiful new cherry tablecloth made for me by my mother-in-law Donavee. (I kept my mother-in-law even though I am not with her son anymore) She is like a second mother to me. And she is always there for me. The vase was given too me with fresh pink roses (they died, so I had to use my fake ones here) to me by my two older grand kids Joshua & Allyssa and their mom Christina. My youngest grandson Nicky & his mom Rosemary took me out to eat. I had a great birthday! :)

My sister brought me the wine from N.M. I tried it at St. Clair's when I went to Farmington last month. I am not usually a fan of wine but I really liked this one.

If you have never been to St. Clair when in New Mexico try them. They are a 100 times better than Olive Garden. Yum Yum I am making myself hungry!

Nicky's sick~

2011-04-06T08:22:00.000-07:00

We found out yesterday that Nicky has strep throat. Poor little guys with all he's going through with the surgery to now have strep. His little throat must really be sore. I hate seeing him like this. I am praying for a quick recovery. I want to see his smiling face and his mischievous attitude. I love you little one!

School pictures

2011-04-04T15:17:00.000-07:00

School pictures sure have come a long way since I was in school. They used to just be a close up shot of your smiling face. Well not anymore. I love these pictures of Joshua & Allyssa. But what I don't love is the price of them. I wish they would make them a little more affordable. But at least I can scan them and share with family even though they don't get their own photo.

I am planning on doing my own little photo shoot with the kids. I am thinking an Hawaiian themed. Since Allyssa's mom is planning a luau theme for her birthday in June. I picked up a palm tree mural for the background now I just need to find the right clothes for them and I will be all set.

100

2011-04-01T18:04:00.001-07:00

Well we reached 100 degrees today. Too hot too soon!

Courtyard Pictures

2011-04-01T09:15:00.000-07:00

These are just some random pictures we took in the courtyard yesterday waiting for the surgery to be over. Some where taken by Rosemary, some by Josh and some by me.

Surgery Day

2011-03-31T17:03:00.000-07:00

Nicky had his surgery today. Everything went well. His throat & ears are a little sore but he is feeling better. He sure is a cute patient!

Here he is with his mama! He's a mama's boy! Sorry dada but it's true! He wanted me to buy him something from the vending machine because he was hungry. Poor little guy had to wait.

During his surgery we went to sit in the court yard. I said a quick prayer for God to watch over him!

It was beautiful and peaceful. It was early morning so the heat wasn't full force yet! We have already been in the 90's and weather man says we could hit 100 tomorrow. Tomorrow's my birthday, great gift first 100 degree day of the year!

Sunset Bookmarker ~

2011-03-27T08:42:00.000-07:00

I made this bookmarker for a sweet lady who goes to my church. She loves sunsets. I took the picture last year at the end of monsoon season. I hope she likes it!

Weeds

2011-03-21T17:31:00.000-07:00

Well the weeds are gone. My son chopped them down yesterday. Allyssa saved the two flowers that were growing amongst the weeds. I didn't have any flowers like these in my yard but my neighbor did. So a little birdie or wind must of blown the seeds over for them to grow.

Today we received lots of rain so a new crop of weeds will probably come up. Maybe I will get another flower or two!

Super Moon

2011-03-20T09:50:00.001-07:00

These are the pictures I took of the super moon last night. We had a little cloud cover. Don't know why 2nd picture came out like that? I don't have the greatest camera just an older Kodak. I would love to get a new camera, maybe soon. I wish! lol

Kids Rock and Roll Marathon

2011-03-19T08:55:00.000-07:00

My grand daughter Allyssa participates every year in the Kids Rock & Roll Marathon.

Here are pictures of her and her friend. The school signs them up and they wear their Rainbow Valley school T-shirts. The proceeds go to the Phoenix Children's Hospital.

I am very proud of her!

Happy St. Patrick's Day~

2011-03-17T09:25:00.000-07:00

May you find your pot of gold today!

Daisy ....

2011-03-15T19:56:00.000-07:00

A pretty daisy amongst the weeds!

Pray ~

2011-03-12T07:26:00.000-08:00

Please pray for my grandson Nicholas. He has to have surgery later this month. He has had ear infections for the last couple of months that medicine hasn't healed. So they are going to be putting tubes in his ears and taking out his adenoids. I hate to have my lil guy go through this but I know he will feel better. So if you could say a little prayer for him I would be very grateful!

Buzz

2011-03-08T20:38:00.001-08:00

I was visited by Buzz/Nicky today!

Elk

2011-03-07T19:34:00.000-08:00

Here is a picture of the elk taken with my brother-in-laws droid, a much clearer picture!

Quick trip~

2011-03-06T08:38:00.000-08:00

I got to make a quick trip to New Mexico to visit with my family. It was only four short days but I was so thankful to be able to spend time with my parents. I drove up with one sister and drove back home with the other. Everything was great even though it was a short trip :)

This very small picture is of a herd of elk. My sisters & I went with my brother-in-law up in Colorado and we were surprised to see this herd. They all just stood there staring at us. And us a them. lol

Ever feel like this.....

2011-02-27T08:52:00.000-08:00

Lately I have not been feeling well. The Dr. got result back from some of my blood work. I am anemic, also low on vitamin D and my thyroid is low. So duh! That's why I have no energy! I know my RA has always effected my vitamin D absorption but I have not had problems with the others. So my goal is to start taking better care of myself so I can be healthy and enjoy my grandchildren even more!

I have the best family and I love them so much!

My Date Tonight~

2011-02-24T17:03:00.000-08:00

Isn't he cute!

The Picture of Valentine's Day~

2011-02-14T07:46:00.000-08:00

The picture of "Valentine's Day" is my parents. They will celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary in Sept. of this year.

Even though I never found a love like this, I am so proud they did!

Love you Mom & Dad "Happy Valentine's Day"

pictures of their young love

Beautiful Sunday~

2011-02-13T08:09:00.000-08:00

We are having beautiful weather today, with a high of 80!

I love it!

I took these pictures of my grandchildren last night. They were all dressed up in their "Sunday best" for their cousins wedding.

Good Morning Sun ~

2011-02-05T07:03:00.000-08:00

I wanted to sleep in this morning but my eyes just popped open at my usual waking time. So it was a good thing I was up, I got to see this beautiful sunrise!

Dreaming

2011-02-02T16:43:00.001-08:00

I am dreaming of warm summer days lounging by my sister's pool. I know I am such a baby we are not even cold compared to other states with all the snow and freezing weather. But I am freezing! Our high was only 44 today which is really unusual for us.
My prayers go out to all who are experiencing this freezing winter storm!

Show and Tell

2011-02-01T19:42:00.000-08:00

Nicky wanted to show his toys off. He was enjoying this so much he cried when I put the camera away!

Angels

2011-01-30T09:12:00.001-08:00

The Shadow of Angels

Hillsong United-Salvation is here live

2011-01-29T09:51:00.000-08:00

I love this song!

"Whip it"

2011-01-23T08:44:00.001-08:00

Has anyone seen this movie "Whip it" I really liked it. Made me think back when I was a teen and thought it would be cool to be on a Woman's roller derby team. But I was never that good on skates.

I am trying to watch more movies this year, at least a couple a month. Does anyone have any good movies they can recommend?

Play Day~

2011-01-18T17:06:00.000-08:00

The grand kids and I had a fun day at the park on Monday. Above is the baseball diamond built for the youth in our community

And the covered play area. The cover sure is nice in the summer

Allyssa being a little shy

A beautiful sunny 76 degrees day

Allyssa and I walked around the walking trails

Allyssa is so beautiful

Handsome Joshua

Allyssa having fun

Joshua ran the trails but slowed down enough for Allyssa to take his picture. They are growing up so much. I am just glad they still like spending time with Grandma!

Beautiful Sunset

2011-01-17T07:34:00.000-08:00

Last night we had a beautiful sunset. I only wish I had my camera with me. All I had was my cell phone camera and it does not do justice to this sunset. I may have to go hunting (camera in hand) tonight looking for another beautiful sunset.
Today I have the pleasure of having my two older grand children with me. They have the day off for Martin L. King holiday. I think we will go to the park.

Show and Tell

2011-01-08T08:44:00.001-08:00

Nicky wanted to do a little show & tell with his toys today. I like to give him little toys from the movies we watch. The first is Barry from the "Bee Movie" and also "Shrek"

Then there is these puzzle pieces from "Toy Story" I got these in a set of 9 at the dollars store. A small price to pay for his fun! The bee & shrek I have had since before he was born. I am glad I saved them. They were toys handed out in kids meals at different fast food restaurants.

I have been getting a lot of the animated kids movies from the Library for him to watch. He is loving it. Also I am starting to read to him more now that he is 2. I did this for his older brother and sister and they both love to read. There mom credits me for that since I am the book worm in my family.

Sunshine

2011-01-06T18:30:00.001-08:00

I know Arizona temperatures are mild compared to other areas but I have been so cold these last couple of weeks. My home faces north so I don't get a lot of sunshine except in my bedroom. Oh the sunshine feels so good!

And all who live where it is a deep freeze, I feel for you, I really do!

Happy New Year~

2011-01-02T17:50:00.000-08:00

I am looking forward to 2011 & all that comes with it!

I haven't made any resolutions this year. I know I would just break them. But I do need to take my health seriously and start eating better and move my body more. I am not getting any younger and I need to quit abusing my body by not taking better care of ME!

What about you?

Under the Tuscan Sun

2010-12-30T08:53:00.000-08:00

I am a little late watching movies. This one came out several years ago and I am just now watching it. I loved it! Beautiful scenery.

I love this dress she is wearing in this scene.

Beautiful home, after remodel!

Makes me want to take a vacation! Even if it's only in a movie!

Happy 2nd Birthday Nicholas!

2010-12-27T10:03:00.000-08:00

Happy 2nd Birthday Nicky!

Christmas

2010-12-20T19:28:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas!

Marilyn

2010-12-19T08:13:00.000-08:00

My face on Marilyn Monroe's body! lol This is from the fun website http://www.photofunia.com/

The grand kids and I were playing around on this site putting our faces on different pictures. Lots of laughs.

2010 Christmas picture

2010-12-12T08:12:00.001-08:00

It was hard to get a good Christmas picture. Nicky wasn't feeling good and was running a fever. His nose was running and he had chapped red lips. Poor little guy!

I love my grand kids! I am so thankful to be their grandma!

Remember~

2010-12-07T06:20:00.000-08:00

Cool Website

2010-12-06T09:07:00.001-08:00

I found this cool website that lets you add words to any picture.

http://wigflip.com/roflbot/

Or this one you can add your picture to different photos like coins, stamps, Christmas ornaments and even Mt. Rushmore! There is lots to choose from. So cool!

http://www.photofunia.com/

What is your favorite Christmas Song

2010-12-01T20:00:00.001-08:00

My favorite Christmas song is "We Three Kings" What is your favorite Christmas song?

Happy Thanksgiving

2010-11-24T18:35:00.000-08:00

Gobble till you wobble!

Happy Thanksgiving!