Huckleberry Cottage...My Wilky Designs...Designs by Tanya Wilkinson

You Gotta Go...

2011-09-12T14:55:00.000-06:00

This is one of my best friend's show. and it is FABULOUS!!! You need to go and have a great time shopping amazing crafters' creations...and once you walk in her back yard, you won't want to leave!! And let's make this even funner...if you go, and comment here after you have been telling me what you like the most, I will do a drawing for a give away from me! but you have to comment here on Saturday or Sunday and I will draw on Monday. This is the one and only show I usually do, but my life is a whirlwind this year, and I am saddened like no other that I can't do it this year. So I will give something away on Monday that I would have normally sold there. I promise I will make it a fun give away.
So mark your calendar now for Saturday!!! You will love it!!

Good Things...part one of who knows how many :)

2011-05-24T16:47:00.003-06:00

There are so many Good Things in life that I have decided that will be my focus for the next while or so. So this I will call part one of Good Things!

What is going on in my yard right now? Here's a peek:

What are your Good Things?

Really Cool Give a Way

2011-04-13T10:58:00.003-06:00

This is a really cool Give a Way on Tatertots and Jello. I really want to win this one:)

Spring Excitement

2011-04-06T16:19:00.004-06:00

I am super excited for Spring. I am always wishing that I had planted bulbs in my yard when Spring rolls around every year....but I have a favorite bush in my front yard that I watch intensely everyday for it to sprout it's buds and bloom. Here is what is doing right now....

I absolutely love this time of year. To me it represents the renewing of life, family traditions, birthdays (all of my kids bdays are in the Spring), freshness, cleanliness, excitement, and beauty.
I love it! And I can't wait until it is in bloom with white balls of flowers!!

And check out who lives with us now. Kort brought him home from school and his name is "Cheo". Very fitting don't you think? He greets me every time I am in the kitchen...which is very often!
Well, I am off for a walk, possibly a ride, to take pictures of the Springy things I love around where I live. I'll keep you posted!!

Have a great day...and tell me...what do you love about the Spring?

2011-02-24T11:05:00.004-07:00

So yesterday I rambled on about "bettering". I have been wondering if that is even a word...bettering. I don't know, but it is a word to me now. I like it and I think I will keep it.
One thing I want to better is my home. I want to clean it really good, want to change some things in it, adorn it with pretty things, most of all...make it more of a safe haven for my family and their friends. Well, today I came across this project, and I think I may just do it. Wanna join me? Check it out here....

Bettering....everything!

2011-02-23T10:54:00.003-07:00

I'm sure that this post will be for my benefit only. I'm sure I don't have many visitors anymore. And I'm so sad about that.
So yes...it has been a very long time since I last posted. There are so many reasons for this...some personal and some not so personal...but the point is this: I'm ready to blog again. I have had quite a few things happen in the past few months, from being a mom of 4 extremely busy boys, to PTSA presidenting, to room momming, to health problems in my family and extended family. I'm not saying my life sucks. I'm not saying that my life is all roses either, but to be honest...I can say that I DO LOVE MY LIFE! I love the good and the bad that is dealt to me every day. It's easy, hard, fun, not fun, happy and sad...all at the same time sometimes. And for these reasons, I have put things on the backburner....especially things that I love...that bring me personal joy. So what's the point to this rambling? I am ready to bring them back to the front burner...slowly. I have given myself the break I needed, and I'm ready to better my life, temporally and spiritually. To better my family. To better my friendships. To better my skills and talents. To better my curiosities.
So in the next while I hope you will bare with me...if you are even still here....as I get order back into my life. As I explore new ways to better a lot of aspects in my life. And hopefully give me your advice!
This post may only make sense to me, and that's ok. I need to get my feelings and thoughts down in black and white. And I plan on doing this more often now. I miss it. And I'm ready for it back.
Thanks for listening to me ramble....

Long Over Due...

2010-10-12T15:02:00.004-06:00

I have been so stinking busy with PTSA that I am so stinking behind in my blogging again! AAAAAHHH!!! (scream) But I have to share with you pics from the Marketplace. I had a blast with Kim, my sis in law...AKA, my friend!
These aren't edited, but they will do.

Thanks so much Marci!!! I had a blast doing this again!

2 months???

2010-09-10T09:32:00.004-06:00

For real? It has been 2 months since I last posted. I guess that makes me a slacker. I have been spending a lot of my time helping my sister in law with her new store. I am also going to be HERE next weekend, on September 18th to be exact! Come and visit...you will not regret it. It is the funnest Market ever!!!
I will be updating, posting, and making things better around here. So come back ok?

Photowalk 17

2010-07-12T19:55:00.002-06:00

Seriously!!! Can you say loser when it comes to blogging? Well on my own blog that is. I have been trying to help my sis in law get her shop up and going. It's a cute store and I'm so excited for her. But in the meantime...I have fallen waaayyy behind with my own stuff. So here's my Walk 17, and I should be on 27 or 28, but the joy to that is...I have a lot of pics that I have taken for my photowalks that just need that special touch before I post them. So, I will work on those and get them posted. I have so many things in the works, and I want to let you know all about them. Soon, my friends...I promise!!

2010-06-15T14:08:00.001-06:00

Just a site from my front yard. I love the blossoms!! And how cool is this leaf? I love it!!!! It's the only one like it on the whole bush! I think it is awesome!!

How cute...Well I think so anyway!

2010-06-14T17:07:00.002-06:00

Do you love it? I do! I made this with the cutest Mary Engelbreit fabric! It is so cheery and fun! I'm selling it here and here! (Approx. 6 1/2" by 61/2")
I gotta know..do you like it?

LIFE..Holy Cow!

2010-05-19T15:54:00.001-06:00

How can life get in the way of doing some of the things I love to do. Well, it has slowed down a bit, I am getting ready to finish some projects for a very cute Boutique...The Blue Hazel Boutique in Lindon. I will post my projects when I get them done. Stay tuned!!

Photowalk 15

2010-05-13T10:22:00.001-06:00

Moments at the fields...
I spend a lot of time at the baseball fields lately. If you look closely you can see Kam's silhouette in the background.

The next 3 were taken at Keegan's football practice. I love rainbows!! I just wish these pics did the real thing justice. These were such bright rainbows. Oh so pretty!!!

Photowalk 14...a bit late..AGAIN!

2010-05-13T10:17:00.001-06:00

I was at a baby animal petting farm with my kids...I loved this tractor...

Photowalk 13 - Simple Pleasures part 1

2010-04-20T15:04:00.000-06:00

Need I say more? I see this beauty popping up, as do a lot of you, and it is refreshing and happy! There will be more of these "Simple Pleasures" to come!

Recipe Friday! Finally!

2010-04-16T20:11:00.002-06:00

These are the baked beans my mom has made my whole life...and they are oh so yummy!!! Try them and let me know what you think!!
Many of the graphics I use are ones I have purchased for personal use only...in other words, please don't copy these cards and sell them. That's not legal. I just want to share what I do in my life with my friends with you, my blog friends. :)
Let me know what you think. And if you try the recipes, let me know how it goes for you!
So here's a recipe card for you. Enjoy! The graphics for this card are from www.nitwitcollections.com. Go and check her out. I love her stuff!!

Photowalk 12

2010-04-14T17:30:00.001-06:00

Dang I am so behind on my Photowalks...I will get caught up. I will!
Here are some sights from sitting at my boys' practices.

I want you to help with this one!

2010-04-13T11:25:00.003-06:00

OK. So here's the thing. I have made a goal to go to every state in the US before I die. I want to see it all! My goal is to visit a different state every year or so. But I want to see it all now. So this is where I need your help..ok so I want your help. I want to see pics from where you live, have visited, etc. I don't want them to be pics that are picked up off the internet, but pics that have been taken by you! So are you in? I so hope so!
How it will work...email the pics to me at huckleberrycottage@yahoo.com and I will start posting them here. Don't forget to sign your name to them, and tell me where the pics are from. And let's not just limit this to the states, but the whole world. So spread the word, and start sending me pics k?

I've done it again...(and Photowalk 11)

2010-04-06T13:24:00.001-06:00

Well I have officially done it again. I have gone forever in not posting. Life catches up to me sometimes, and that's exactly what has happened! I owe you recipes, photowalks, thoughts, and projects. I will move forward and get these to you...I promise!
So here is my Photowalk 11, and yes I owe you 2 more of these. I guess I owe myself these too, because I look forward this part of my blog. Come to think about it, I guess I owe myself all the other stuff too, cause I do enjoy it all!

Recipe Friday

2010-03-19T15:00:00.000-06:00

I must admit...I didn't make the Irish Stew recipe this week. To be quite frank...this has been a horrible week, and just simply wasn't in the mood to be festive. I know...not like me at all, but I did receive news today that has made the week a little better.
Anyways....it is Birthday Season at my house, and this is the cake we make for every birthday. This cake has been a tradition in Kelly's family for like, ever! We don't always make the frosting part for the kids birthday because I decorate those ones, but the frosting oh so YUM!!! I hope you enjoy it!

Let me know if you tried the Irish Stew...and if you try this cake! I think you should make one this weekend..you won't regret it! I promise! My grandma made it for a funeral in her ward, and the ladies in the kitchen didn't serve it! They kept it for themselves...how cute is that?

PhotoWalk #10

2010-03-16T11:23:00.001-06:00

Things that have made me happy this week...

52 Photowalks #9

2010-03-14T20:58:00.001-06:00

Party on....9 year old style!!

Recipe Friday..Slow Cooker Irish Stew

2010-03-12T07:39:00.001-07:00

Since St. Patty's Day is next week, and this is Recipe Friday before that holiday...I think it would be a great time to make Irish Stew. I have never made it before so I googled it...and there are a ton of variations of it out there. I am a simple gal...I don't have a ton of time to prepare food on any day but Sunday because I am so stinkin' busy..aren't we all? So I found one for a slow cooker that I think looks really easy! Want to try it with me??? I have an idea...let's all make a stew on St. Patrick's Day and let each other know how it goes. Sound good???
Here's the recipe I found....

Crockpot Irish Stew

1 1/2 lbs. stew meat
3 lg. potatoes
3 lg. stalks celery
3 to 4 carrots, pared and sliced
2 1/2 large size can tomatoes
1 slice bread, cubed
3 tbsp. Minute tapioca
Salt and pepper to taste
Bay leaf (optional)
1 med. onion
NO WATER

Cut vegetables into large chunks (may be done evening before). Mix meat, vegetables with bread and tapioca. Place in crockpot; turn on high; pour tomatoes over top of vegetables. DO NOT STIR. After about an hour, turn to low and cook for 6 or 7 hours. With corn muffins or French bread, your dinner is ready with not much mess or fuss.

And...I hope you have a great weekend. I will try to get my Photowalk #9 posted in the next couple of days! See you soon!

52 Photowalks #8

2010-03-11T10:21:00.002-07:00

This is the same pic...just different editing. I can't decide which one I like better...what do you think? I want to print this one so please give me your input :)

A Post to Read...

2010-03-10T07:20:00.003-07:00

There have been a few teen suicides in our area this past bit. My son is the friend to one of the siblings of one of them. I am lucky enough to have a relationship with him that we talk about everything, and he felt like he could talk to me about it, and vice verse. I have wanted to write about this, but didn't know how to go about it. Then, my good friend who I am so lucky to live by, did. I feel like she hit the nail on the head with this topic. It's not a happy post in the least bit. But I think it is something we should all read and think about. If you want to read it, and I think you should, go here. Come back and post about it if you want to....

I hope you all have a great day!!! My prayers go out to those families that are suffering at this time.

A Give Away on my friend's blog....

2010-03-08T15:32:00.000-07:00

So my friend, V., is having a give away on her blog. She does that often, and this one is awesome! Go and check it out HERE!!

Recipe Fridays....

2010-03-05T18:40:00.002-07:00

Ok...so here's what I have decided. I am going to post either a favorite recipe of mine, or a recipe that I find that I would like to try on Fridays. (We could try the new recipes together and let each other know how it was). I will either post a pic of the food and the recipe or I will post a recipe card itself. I am in a recipe swap group, and I make up a 6 x 6 card with the recipe every other month. You are welcome to save the image to your computer and print it out, or comment on here and I will email you the file so you have it that way. I formatted them in a square format so you could print it out in any size square card. Many of the graphics I use are ones I have purchased for personal use only...in other words, please don't copy these cards and sell them. That's not legal. I just want to share what I do in my life with my friends with you, my blog friends. :)
Let me know what you think. And if you try the recipes, let me know how it goes for you!
So here's a recipe card for you. Enjoy! The graphics for this card are from www.nitwitcollections.com. Go and check her out. I love her stuff!!

Yup...I've got it! Spring Fever!

2010-03-01T18:02:00.001-07:00

"It's spring fever. That is what the name of it is. And when you've got it, you want - oh, you don't quite know what it is you do want, but it just fairly makes your heart ache, you want it so!" -Mark Twain

I know, I know...

2010-02-25T16:18:00.001-07:00

I know. I am not keeping on my blogging very well. Truth be told, I haven't felt like it lately. How's that for blunt honesty? I have been under the weather for quite some time, and I keep trying to just keep up, but this week it caught up to me. So I think I will take the rest of the week off, rest (when I can, that's kinda hard to do with 4 very active boys, but I love that they are constantly having somewhere for me to take them), get going on that new pattern I mentioned, and I will see you on Monday. Which means, yup, I will be another week behind on my Photowalks, but there will be 2 next week. Have a great weekend...and please let me know you were here. I love company! It brightens my days!! :)
BTW...if you haven't read the Percy Jackson series,,,,DO! They are great books!

52 Photowalks Week 7

2010-02-19T16:26:00.001-07:00

Oh my goodness! We went to St. George this past weekend and it was GORGEOUS! I want to go back! Here are a few pics of what we saw there. I have so many more than this, but this will tickle your senses of beautifulness!
Isn't this breathtaking? I wish you could have been there to really see it. It was so pretty!

What a view. Look closely so you can see the different elements here...the red rock, the white rock, and the snow. Seriously. I loved it.

I was in love with this little monument that we found on our 4 wheeling adventures. It's really small...really. But how cool is the reflection of it in the water. And the red rock...just awesome!

Just a few of our transportation. We love 4 wheelin'. Great memories...great times! Oh and the next pic...if you look closely, it looks like a face. Do you see it?

Just a reminder of the blue skies! So refreshing and nice. And the tunnel? Well that was the tunnel we went through to get to the hills. I just thought it was a cool pic.

So that is how we spent President's Day Weekend. What did you do? Please share! :)

52 Photowalks Week 6

2010-02-19T16:06:00.001-07:00

I know....what in the world right? Well, Keegan was boiling water for a science experiment and he was taking pictures of everything. I thought this one was kinda cool...just boiling water. So this is Keeg's pic, not mine, but I thought it was cool.

52 Photowalks Week 5 (a little late)

2010-02-19T16:01:00.001-07:00

Happy (late) Valentine's Day! If you could come to my house, this is what would welcome you! ...still! I need to change out the decorations, but not today. I'm feeling a bit sit and chill in a blanket today. I know, L A Z Y! but ya know, ya got to have those days sometimes!

Oh My! For real?

2010-02-18T17:37:00.001-07:00

Has it really been this long since I've been on here? I knew my life went into a whirlwind, but really? I didn't even wish you all a Happy Valentine's Day!! So I am now. Happy Valentine's Day!
Life has been a bit out of control lately...so out of control there has been no time for computer time. That's busy. What have you all been up to the past 2 weeks?
I am in the works of a new pattern. I will give you a sneak peek hopefully tomorrow.
I am also way behind on my Photowalks. Yup, 3 weeks behind to be exact. So guess what the next posts will be...yup. Photos! I hope you are doing great!!

Friends....how great are they!!!

2010-02-03T14:06:00.006-07:00

Seriously! How great are friends? I think they rock! I don't know where I would be without mine. I love that I met my best friend in 7th grade health class, and ended up marrying him. I love how I can see my friend at the bus stop and end up standing there on the sidewalk and talk for over an hour and wish that we could talk longer. I love that I can go to dinner with a bunch of friends with the intent of eating dinner and swapping our cards, and end up laughing until we are crying and almost peeing our pants. I love that I can go and get my hair done and talk with my friend and know that I can say anything and it won't shock her, and that she will understand what I'm talking about. I love that she can do the same with me. I love that I grew up with my friend, who is also my sister. I love that my mom is my friend. I love that I learn from friendships lost. I love that I have a red headed friend that is true to her red hair...and that's a great thing!!! I love that I lived by one of my truest friends for 4 years, and even though we don't talk a lot, or see each other much, yet whenever we do see each other it is a true friendship that picks up where we left off last. I love that I have friends that I have only met in person once or twice, yet it feels like I have known them my whole life. I love that I have friends that teach me things, and they don't even know they are doing it. I love these people that I call my friends! Don't you just love your friends?

52 Photowalks #4

2010-01-30T14:58:00.002-07:00

So the other night I was going to pick Kam up from his friend's house and this is what I saw. I felt like I was so close that I could reach out and touch it! So pretty!!

My Favorite Taco Soup

2010-01-27T17:48:00.004-07:00

Taco Soup - YUMMY!

Ingredients:
1 lb. hamburger - browned
1 pkg. dry taco seasoning
1 can pinto bean - rinsed and drained
1 can kidney beans - rinsed and drained
1 can golden hominy - drained
1 c. frozen corn
(2) 14.5 oz cans stewed tomatoes
(1) 28 oz. can crushed tomatoes
(1) 14.5 oz. can diced tomatoes
(3) 8 oz. cans tomato sauce

Throw everything into a crockpot or a large pot and simmer. Serve with tortilla chips. Garnish with a dollop of sour cream and a shredded cheese.

Hope you love it!

Sandy's Give Away...

2010-01-26T10:28:00.001-07:00

So, in finding Rae Ann's blog, I also found a lot of other incredibly talented people. This gal, Sandy, is having a Give Away. Go and check it out!

Finding an old friend who is the mom to an old friend...

2010-01-26T10:19:00.003-07:00

There is this cutest lady named Rae Ann. She is the mom to one of my high school friends, Kim, who by the way is incredible. A few years ago, Rae Ann asked me to do my first Blocks of the Month series. Little does she know how much she has touched my life. She is incredible!!! Not just with her quilting, but with her life. She is one amazing gal! And one day, hopefully I will be half as talented as she is...for real!

52 Photowalks - Week 3

2010-01-22T11:04:00.005-07:00

Yesterday, I was sitting in the car with my sister waiting for my mom to come for a day of shopping. I looked over at this birdhouse in my front yard, and there was the cutest mama bird (I say she was a mama because I imagine she was tending her home) sticking her cute little face out of the window. I am delighted that she has made herself at home. I have been waiting to see her poke her head out again....
but for now...I will keep watching her front doorway and wait for her to say "Hi."

Drum Roll...and the Winner is...

2010-01-22T10:07:00.008-07:00

I just ran a random number on a site and here is the Result!!!
The Winner is....

True Random Number Generator
Min:
Max:
Result: 2
Powered by RANDOM.ORG

...comment number 2, which is Jessica!! So I need your address my dear!
And what did she win??? Let me show you....

This pillow, made by me, and...

This set of 3 cards, also made by me.

I hope you like them Jessica! Thanks everyone for playing!!!

A GIVE AWAY!!!

2010-01-18T10:52:00.005-07:00

So,,,,I don't like to announce this, but I am announcing for you!
Today is my birthday...and I don't say that to get a bunch of attention, but I say that to announce that I am going to do a GIVE AWAY because I was born.
This is how it goes...the GIVE AWAY is a surprise. Ya know how on your birthday you get a gift and you don't know what's in it until you open it? Well, that's what this GIVE AWAY is....a gift, and it will be a surprise. I will post the goods and GIVE AWAY on Friday, January 22nd at 10 am Utah time. If you want to be in on this here's what to do.
To enter once, simply comment on this post.
To enter twice, comment on this post and link this post on your blog, facebook, twitter, whatever and then let me know you posted there.
It's all that simple.
HMMMM...I wonder what the GIVE AWAY will be...Oh, I do know, but you all will have to wait until Friday to see it. :)

My Favorite Chocolate Chip Cookie

2010-01-15T09:29:00.004-07:00

I LOVE COOKIES! LIKE, I TRULY LOVE THEM!!
I know that we all have our favorite chocolate chip cookie recipe, and you are probably wondering why would I post a recipe that everyone already has....well, that's because I love cookies and I love this recipe. I wanted to share it with you!

Chocolate Chip Cookies
1 lb butter
1 1/2 cup sugar
2 cups brown sugar
3 eggs
2 tsp vanilla
1 1/2 tsp salt
1 1/2 tsp baking soda
6 cups flour
4 cups chocolate chips
2 cups chopped pecans
Cream the butter and both sugars. Blend in the eggs and vanilla. Add the dry ingredients and mix well. Add the chocolate chips and pecans. (This dough is really stiff)
Bake at 350 for 12-14 minutes.
Grab a glass of milk, and ENJOY!!!

A friend I miss...

2010-01-14T10:31:00.004-07:00

This is Sassi....she was ours for about 9 years. For some reason today, I miss her. She passed away a few months ago, and I just miss her. It's funny how an animal can affect your life. She was such a great dog, and although I love Daisy (posted in the previous post), I will always love Sassi. She was awesome!

52 Walks - #1

2010-01-12T17:08:00.007-07:00

Here are my first 2 photowalks. I am starting a week late. This is my cute dog Daisy! And a veiw from my backyard. I love where I live!

52 Photowalks of 2010

2010-01-11T21:37:00.005-07:00

So my friends...I am venturing on some photography fun! I am really excited to do this. My friend, Mindy, started this and it is going to be great. I am not a professional photographer by any means, but I do love to play with it. If you want to know the details go here....52 Photowalks of 2010
My first post to come tomorrow!!

2010-01-05T23:23:00.002-07:00

Oh my goodness! This is pathetic....I can't believe it has been this long since I have written. I have probably lost all of my reading friends...and hopefully you will all find your way back here. I have a few tricks up my sleeve,,,so please check in. My first trick is to get this blog looking a little more fun.

2009-10-01T10:52:00.002-06:00

I so love where I live,,,I love this time of year,,,,and I just love life right now. How about you?

A Great Weekend

2009-09-28T06:30:00.005-06:00

A few pics from the Fallow Field Farm Market on Saturday! I had a blast! It was so fun to finally meet some friends, and spend the day with them! Thanks so much Marci! It was a great day!!!

Well, it's here...

2009-09-25T07:03:00.004-06:00

I am sick to my stomach. How can something so stinking fun be so stressful?
My first ever show is tomorrow...and I am so nervous!!! I feel unprepared and I know that I am going to forget a million things! AAAHH!!! Well, I'm off to finish more projects and go set up this afternoon! See ya tomorrow, I hope!

Directions to the BIG EVENT

2009-09-25T01:05:00.001-06:00

I took these directions from The Fallow Farm Blog. Hope to see you all there! There are some incredibly talented gals vending this show. Come over and check it out!

~Directions to the Show~

There are so many ways to get here...I'll try to cover all of the bases.

If you are coming north on I-15...

exit on 1600 N. in Orem, it is right by The Home Depot. Come straight through that light going north and you will come to a round-a-bout. Go through that until you are facing west. You will be on 800 W. in Lindon. Go straight until you come to 300 N which is also Lakeview Rd. Turn right and we are on the south side of the street.

If you are coming south on I-15. Same directions only turn left when you get off the freeway and then left again at the next light.

If you are coming on State Street....we are the road just to the south of Utah-Idaho Map Supply. It is the next road south of Los Hermanos. At State it says 200 N but it turns into Lakeview. Go straight down that road and we are almost to the end on the south side.

If you are taking Geneva Road...turn on Center Street in Lindon. It is also the road that the church cannery is on if you are familiar with that. You will come to 800 W. take a left and we are the next road on the right. 300 N.

There will be some signs to direct you (hopefully!) and we will be the only decorated, crazy house on the block!!! ;D

I'm so excited to see all of you!!!!!

2009-09-14T22:49:00.006-06:00

So here is another
Give Away that I really want to win. I don't really want to tell you all about it, cause I want it, but I have a tiny bit of a better chance of winning if I post about it. Go check it out,,,or better yet...don't! ;)

Projects...

2009-08-24T01:17:00.005-06:00

My kitchen table is filled with all sorts of stuff from fabric to paper, good stuff to garbage, and cuteness to frustration. I have been working on my stuff for the show at Marci's. These are the latest ...aren't they cute? I am working on these like crazy because I love how they are turning out. Each one is unique...and oh so fun!

Getting ready....

2009-08-06T15:23:00.007-06:00

I am in the works of getting ready for the BIG SHOW!

I am in the midst of making all sorts of "stuff" from fabric to paper. I am really excited!!!

(This is just a sampling of what I do...please
don't be upset if you come to the show and don't
see these exact things there ;) )

Gosh...It's been a while....

2009-07-27T10:27:00.002-06:00

So sorry to leave for a bit. It has been crazy summer days....as I'm sure most of you know!
Tonight starts another season of football..and I love it! 3 of my 4 boys play, and the only reason number 4 isn't is because he has to wait one more year. Needless to say, he isn't happy about it! I love it when football rolls around. It means that fall is just around the corner, and fall is my absolute time of year. I love it! I love the break it gives from the heat, I love the smells, and I love the excitement I feel in the air. Yes, it's still summer, but football season gets me excited for my fave time of the year. I also get back into my "creating mode", which, for some reason, leaves me in the summer. I love to pack my projects to practice every night. Sure, people look at me weird, but that's ok. It's what I like to do. I am going to add one thing this year though. I am going to walk the trail every night before I settle in my chair to watch my boys practice.
So, there is a bit of ramblings for you. I just wanted to let you know that I am on my way to creativity again, which is going to bring new patterns, tutorials, and insights to my blog. (I wish I could come up with a better word for blog,,,it sounds so blah!)
Have a great day, and I will be back soon to share with you what I am up to. ;)

2009-07-12T21:30:00.002-06:00

My great friend, Marci, is putting on her first great event coming this September....I just wanted to let you know. Go here, and check it out. It will be fabulous!!

No place like it...

2009-07-06T09:40:00.002-06:00

There's really no place like home. My home can be so many things at one time. It can be crazy, chaotic (of course with 4 sons), creative, a place of refuge, a place of discipline, a place of happiness, or even sadness. But the thing I love the most is that is the place where me and my 5 boys (including Kelly here) can be just us. No worries about anything. We can just be us. And I love that. The word HOME is such a nice word to me. I love being home!!!
What do you think of when you hear the word home?

2009-07-04T10:02:00.002-06:00

Winner, Winner, Chicken Dinner...

2009-07-02T12:16:00.001-06:00

Yeah! for Celeste......we drew your name baby! I'll bring it to you today!!!

My GIVE-AWAY!!!

2009-06-29T17:28:00.004-06:00

Here it is .... FINALLY!!! This is just a small little GIVE-AWAY in honor of my hubby's favorite holiday....our nation's birthday! I have made a small candle mat, a fabric bow, and you also get the cute little candle (it's mulberry).

The details are the same as before....comment on this post and you get your name in the drawing....post it on your blog or facebook, and let me know, and you get your name in again.....if someone comments on here because they were referred here by you, and they let me know that, then you get your name entered again.

I will draw the winner on Thursday, July 2nd, at 10 am. Thanks for playing!!!

Another Give Away...

2009-06-17T12:15:00.002-06:00

This time it's from me.

In honor of my hubby's favorite holiday, I have decided to give away a cute pillow. I am debating on which one to give. I will post it by the weekend, because I still need to make it ;)

Keep in touch!!!

Another great give away!

2009-06-16T11:27:00.004-06:00

Another FRIEND posted this Give Away on her blog...go and check itout!!

A Give Away...not by me though ;)

2009-06-16T09:14:00.003-06:00

So I have a friend that posted this GIVE AWAY on facebook. I checked it out, and it's great. It is a camera bag GIVE AWAY. Go on and check it out!

Thank You Marci!!!

2009-06-09T16:28:00.002-06:00

So I have had a really really bad couple of days. First of all, I missed a lunch that I really wanted to go to. You see, there is this little clan of gals that I only know some of them personally. This was a lunch that I was going to be able to meet them, not like meeting them through writing on a blog, but really meet them. I didn't get to go. I have some very sick kids, and on top of that all hell broke loose yesterday. Well, Keegan, one of "the kids", just isn't getting better, so I took him to the doctor today. Bad news there too!!! He will be ok, but just not today or for a few days for that matter. On my way to the doctor, one of my greatest friends called me to check on me. She told me that I had a treat waiting for me at home...and here is what was waiting for me..... Marci,,,,,THANK YOU! Besides this being one of the cutest things ever, it really touched my heart. I will call you personally and tell you, but at the moment I would just be blubbering in your ear! But for real, this means a lot to me! It has been a really really bad couple of days! Thank heavens for friends...real friends. The ones you can not see for years, and when you end up living by each other everything is even better than it was before.

Simply Simplify...

2009-06-03T13:29:00.006-06:00

So with a couple of days of summer behind me....I have realized that I need to "lighten up" on some things. I realize that my house is not going to always be clean, especially with 4 boys around. I need to not be frightened that someone is going to come to visit and there will be a mess, because there most likely will be. I need to not worry about things that are out of my control, and take care of things that are in my control. And to do these things, among others, I need to simplify a few things in my life, but I'm not quite sure how to do that...so I am turning to you, my friends, for advice. How do you simplify things in your life? How do you choose what to simplify first? Please comment, even if you never have before!!! I would love some advice.

I wonder who might visit...

2009-06-02T08:24:00.002-06:00

Every year I have special "visitors". They usually fly in. Yes, they have wings. Last year I had a wonderful little swarm here, in a house made for a bird. Well, that swarm is gone. How delightful would it be for a little birdie to live here this year. I would be so happy!

Beautiful Little Ladies...

2009-05-29T00:05:00.002-06:00

These little ladies are my all time favorite, well besides my daisies, that I have in my yard. I wish they would bloom all summer. Maybe that is why I absolutely love them though....the fact that I only get to enjoy them once a year. It makes me really notice them, and how beautiful they are.

OK...my friends

2009-05-26T18:30:00.001-06:00

I have had the best time doing this give away,,,and getting to know more friends. Please don't leave just because the give away is done. Come back often, and chat with me! I would love to have you visit! More of my randomness is coming! ;)

Well....the winner is!!!

2009-05-26T14:51:00.005-06:00

Congratulations SCREEN DOOR!!! I told my son....who is 4....to pick paper out of the bucket! He insisted on dressing up in his Spiderman costume to do this. So I guess you could say....Spidey picked the winner!
Hey Screen Door....I need to know where to send this to.

ps...click on Screen Door above and check out her blog...very cute!

Finally.....

2009-05-19T16:20:00.004-06:00

update: I have noticed that there are a lot of new people looking at this give away! That is so exciting to me! Please, everyone comment so I can get to know you if I already don't, and get to know you better if I already know you! ;)

Here it is! My Give Away! I hope you like it!!

Here are the details....

This will stay posted for 1 week. I will pick the winner on Tuesday, May 26th.
If you comment on here, you will be entered once.
If you post this on your blog, or facebook, you will be entered for a second chance. Make sure you let me know that you have it posted on your blog or facebook though. I won't have any way of knowin g if you don't ;)
And to be entered for a third time, if someone comments on here that you are the one who referred them to this give away, you will be entered again!
When it comes time to draw, I will put all entries into a hat, or bowl, or something like that and I will have one of my boys draw a name! I promise, promise, promise that whoever they draw the first time is who will win! No cheating here! ;)

So on to the stuff...

If you win, you will be given this modge podge of things I like and like to do. I wanted to do so much more, but I can always do another give away right?

What's in the package?

A couple of greeting cards, made by me, a birthday one and a halloween one (I love halloween), A pillow made by me, assorted paper for card making or scrapbooking, 3 recipe cards made by me, 5 assorted fat quarters of fabric (I know they don't match each other, I just picked random ones), A cute little red box, and A "Stuff" box, also made by me!

I hope you like the goodies here!

2009-05-14T23:52:00.002-06:00

I know, I know....Where in the heck is the give away? I promise it is coming! I have realized that getting 4 boys to their practices and games is a bit overwhelming...but oh so fun! The give away will be ready over the weekend and I will post it first of the week....I CROSS MY HEART!!!

A cute email from aunt Dianne!

2009-05-06T15:57:00.001-06:00

WHY GOD MADE MOMS

Answers given by 2nd grade school children to the following questions:
Why did God make mothers?
1. She's the only one who knows where the scotch tape is.
2. Mostly to clean the house.
3. To help us out of there when we were getting born.
How did God make mothers?
1. He used dirt, just like for the rest of us.
2. Magic plus super powers and a lot of stirring.
3. God made my mom just the same like he made me. He just used bigger parts.
What ingredients are mothers made of?
1. God makes mothers out of clouds and angel hair and everything nice in the world and one dab of mean.
2. They had to get their start from men's bones. Then they mostly use string , I think.
Why did God give you your mother and not some other mom?
1. We're related.
2. God knew she likes me a lot more than other people's mom like me.
What kind of a little girl was your mom?
1. My mom has always been my mom and none of that other stuff.
2. I don't know because I wasn't there, but my guess would be pretty bossy.
3. They say she used to be nice.
What did mom need to know about dad before she married him?
1. His last name.
2. She had to know his background. Like is he a crook? Does he get drunk on beer?
3. Does he make at least $800 a year? Did he say NO to drugs and YES to chores?
Why did your mom marry your dad?
1. My dad makes the best spaghetti in the world. And my mom eats a lot.
2. She got too old to do anything else with him.
3. My grandma says that mom didn't have her thinking cap on.
Who's the boss at your house?
1. Mom doesn't want to be boss, but she has to because dad's such a goof ball.
2. Mom. You can tell by room inspection. She sees the stuff under the bed.
3. I guess mom is, but only because she has a lot more to do than dad.
What's the difference between moms and dads?
1. Moms work at work and work at home and dads just go to work at work.
2. Moms know how to talk to teachers without scaring them.
3. Dads are taller and stronger, but moms have all the real power 'cause that's who you got to ask if you want to sleep over at your friends.
4. Moms have magic, they make you feel better without medicine.
What does your mom do in her spare time?
1. Mothers don't do spare time.
2. To hear her tell it, she pays bills all day long.
What would it take to make your mom perfect?
1. On the inside she's already perfect. Outside, I think some kind of plastic surgery.
2. Diet. You know, her hair. I'd diet, maybe blue.
If you could change one thing about your mom, what would it be?
1. She has this weird thing about me keeping my room clean. I'd get rid of that.
2. I'd make my mom smarter. Then she would know it was my sister who did it not me.
3. I would like for her to get rid of those invisible eyes on the back of her head.

Perfect Little Chipboard Box

2009-05-06T15:13:00.004-06:00

New to my Etsy Shop is this cutie!!!

...a cute little chipboard box. I am going to be making a few of these, so if you would like one...let me know. I can do them in any color or theme!!

I have been working on the give-away...it is coming soon!

So Here's Something to Watch for....I hope for you it is anyway!

2009-04-29T07:14:00.003-06:00

Well, so here's the deal. I have been in quite a funk....as you know if you have read earlier posts. I feel uncreative and unproductive...yup still. I have had my wisdom teeth out, which has completely done me under. I am SICK OF FEELING THIS WAY! So I was thinking what could I do that help pull me out of this? And the answer kept coming.....do some sort of service! Service works every time. Then I thought .. HOW? I am not feeling well, from the dang teeth thing, and so how am I suppose to get out and weed my neighbor's garden? How am I suppose to bake a batch of cookies when I can't stand up straight from medications? And then.....ding ding ding ding ding! I AM GOING TO DO A GIVEAWAY! and hopefully someone will want something from me. I haven't come up with the giveaway items yet, but it will be fun. I have my hands in so many things that I like to do that it will a modge podge of Tanya Stuff.....so in the next week I will be getting this ready and post pictures! Keep your eyes peeled! It will be coming!

2009-04-28T10:53:00.003-06:00

Another give away you want to be in on...if you like aprons that is....and who doesn't??????

Check it out!

How much can one person take?

2009-04-28T09:21:00.002-06:00

Yes...I feel as though a bit of a whimp. I have always considered myself pretty tough when it comes to pain...but this is kicking my butt! I had all 4 of my wisdom teeth pulled on Friday. And I am still down. I can't believe it. I thought I would be back to the real world by Monday, but ummmmm..NO! and how much of this stuff can one person swallow? I can't wait to eat a big juicy hamburger!!!!

In The Lovely Springtime....

2009-04-23T23:21:00.004-06:00

Finally, the fresh breath of buds in bloom. These beauties are in my front yard...so lovely!

I can't wait to show you what these pop out to be...I'm sure you know, but these are my favorite every year. The anticipation of these blondies is so exciting to me.

This is the tree that is in between us and our neighbor, which happens to be our friends!

....and a little closer peek at these lovelies!

I just love the hope that Spring brings....don't you?

Thanks!!!

2009-04-15T10:20:00.000-06:00

I have great friends!!! Thanks so much!!!

Where o' Where is my creativity?

2009-04-14T18:40:00.002-06:00

I have struggled lately to get myself in gear. Sometimes it just helps to "chat" with someone, or maybe even nobody at all. I don't know if anyone reads this anymore because I have not posted, nor had much to post about. I have so much to do and cannot quite get it in gear. Maybe it's because I haven't been home, due to running The Boys around to their practices, or because I have not been feeling well due to major wisdom teeth problems, or just plain out feel non significant to much right now. I don't know, but I am recommitting myself to get my stuff done! There I said it,,,,I recommit! So I will go and pull out something that needs to be done and do it. Thanks for listening, or yet, reading my problem. I will be back with what I have been doing soon!!!

First Apron

2009-03-31T18:48:00.003-06:00

I found out today why I do pillows, runners, and stuff that I can fudge and make right if I need to. I made my first apron today for an apron swap on Apron Girls. I feel so bad for the gal that gets this. I had to topstitch, which I am horrible at, on it, and I picked it and redid it about 4 times. It still looks like crap. So I apologize now to the poor gal. And it turned out so dang long. I don't get it. I will keep trying though....I will!

This is cool...

2009-03-29T07:40:00.003-06:00

Check out this giveaway. I just learned about this from an apron girl, and it's really cool.

Tagged

2009-03-22T22:31:00.005-06:00

My friend Jenny tagged me. Here's the scoop...

Here are the rules: Go to your fourth folder, and open the fourth picture and blog about it! Then tag four of your friends.

So here's my fourth folder and fourth picture....a ring that Marci asked me to take pics of for Mady, her daughter. She is selling them to earn money to go to Nationals for Cheer.....YAY Mady! I know she is leaving soon, so hurry over to her site.... http://www.madysunshine.blogspot.com/ ....and get one. They are so cute!!

I tag Celeste, Haley, Holly, and Marci! and if you want to do this...go for it....it's easy!!!

A Perfect Springtime Salad

2009-03-21T12:53:00.003-06:00

This salad just screams Spring to me. I know everyone has and makes their favorite salad, but this is one of mine. Mostly because it is an anything goes salad.
I use any pasta I have on hand, olives, cucumbers, cheese, tomatoes, and sometime pepperoni. (This one was made for my son's b-day, so it only has olives and tomatoes). Add zesty italian dressing, and voila...it's done. I love this time of the year,,,,salads, bbq's, flowers, yada yada yada! What's your favorite thing right now?

cake #2

2009-03-19T22:49:00.003-06:00

This isn't one of my favorite cakes that I have made, and I have made quite a few, but Koy wanted a pool table cake this year, so this is how it turned out.

Celeste

2009-03-18T14:03:00.003-06:00

So check out my friend's website...it's awesome, she is amazing and stinkin' talented!!!

www.celestegrover.c om

2009-03-16T13:10:00.003-06:00

Saturday was awesome! I was able to go lunch with some old friends, made new again, and meet some friends that I was so excited to be able to meet! We had a great time. We went to the Blue Lemon for lunch and went to a quilt store right next door. I was so mad that I didn't take a pic of us all, because I did have my camera of course, but Haley drew a picture so we are covered!
Thanks gals....I had a blast and can't wait to do it again!

Birthday Cake #1 for the year...

2009-03-13T17:01:00.004-06:00

Here is the first cake of the birthday season. Just thought I'd share///

Pay It Forward

2009-03-03T23:54:00.000-07:00

Something Fun...Come Play Along
Come play PAY IT FORWARD! Here are the rules:
1. Be one of the first THREE bloggers to leave a comment on this post, which then entitles you to a handmade item from me.
2. Winners, you must post this challenge on your blog, meaning that you will PAY IT FORWARD, creating a handmade gift for the first THREE bloggers who leave a comment on YOUR post about this giveaway.
3. The gift that you send to your THREE winners can be from any price range and you have 365 days to make/ship your item. This means you should be willing to maintain your blog until you receive your gift and have shipped your gifts.
Remember it's the spirit and the thought that count!
4. When you receive your gift, please feel free to blog about it, sharing appropriate LINKY LOVE!
If you are not one of the top three commenters on this post, you can still play along!

another give away...

2009-03-02T13:16:00.003-07:00

so another friend...V. is having a give away! Check it out!

www.adayinthelifeofthechristensons.blogspot.com/

Farm Chicks give away

2009-03-01T23:00:00.003-07:00

My friend, Marci, has this fav site of hers, and I have to admit that I am getting hooked too. Well they are having a give away. I would love to win this, but ya know.... ;) Anyways, go and check it out.... www.thefarmchicks.com and then go to their blog. Fun stuff!!!

Little Beauties

2009-02-28T15:20:00.003-07:00

It is finally sunny, the air is clean, and I found these beauties at the store today...(they are for my MIL for her BDday, but I just had to take some pics of them.) Tulips are such a symbol of the great things to come. It is a great day!

Finished....finally!

2009-02-27T20:51:00.001-07:00

So here is the finished product of what I gave you a peek at a while ago. I'm off to my next one. (This order is taking me way too long...too many illnesses and life issues to take care of...ugh!)

Tea Staining

2009-02-23T16:02:00.006-07:00

OK>>>So for those of you that already do this, like on a regular basis, this post probably isn't for you....but I have had a couple of people ask me how to "tea stain". There are a few ways to do this, but this is how I like to do it.
First I start with tea-dyed muslin, or regular muslin, a cup of hot water, a tea bag (or 2), and a cookie sheet.

Next place the muslin on the cookie sheet...

Add the tea bag to the hot water...

Squeeze the water from the tea bag onto the muslin...

Squeeze as much or as little as you want.....it's totally up to you. Some people like a lot and some a little. It is a total personal preference. You CANNOT goof this up! I promise!

Place the muslin and the cookie sheet in a preheated 275* oven. Watch the material very closely until it is dry. It only takes a few minutes.

Iron the muslin, and see if it stained enough to your liking. If you want more staining, just repeat the steps above.

**A little tip. If you want to have quite a "splotchy" look, do the above steps at least 2 times. If you wet the muslin too much on the first time, it will just dye the muslin to a darker color, instead of staining it.

***If you want a darker, richer color, use coffee packets instead of tea packets.

Yummy Snack...

2009-02-18T20:24:00.003-07:00

So Kelly introduced me to this yummy snack....Soy Pods. They are wonderful. We found them at Costco, and you just need to heat them in the microwave for a few minutes, pop the seeds out of the pods, and eat them. YUM!

Still Working,...

2009-02-17T16:05:00.003-07:00

on my special orders. Here's a peek....

Cute Little Pillow

2009-02-16T12:43:00.004-07:00

I recently was put into our Young Women's Presidency. I am in charge of the birthdays so I decided to make the leaders a cute little pillow for their bdays. Here is my first one....

What have I been doing?

2009-02-10T19:11:00.004-07:00

Why Stitching of course!

I have an order that I have been working on for a sweet lady. Here are the first two finished, and no you aren't seeing double....she ordered 2 of this one. I love this pattern....and it's fun to design.

Happy Groundhog Day!

2009-02-02T09:12:00.002-07:00

6 More Weeks...

Of Winter! Phil saw his shadow today. I know it's silly, but Groundhog Day is still here...does Phil the groundhog really know? What do you think? And what are you all going to do for 6 more weeks of winter?

I just received a big order for pillows and stuff, so I will be busy stitching and sewing away for a while. I am so excited!!! I am excited to sell finished items as well as new patterns.

The Power of One Word

2009-01-18T23:27:00.003-07:00

So, I have a friend who has inspired me just from reading what she is doing with herself this year. She got the idea from her sister in law, and now I am stealing it, and hopefully you will too. I think this could be a very powerful tool that anyone could use in their own personal life this year. She has chosen one word that sums up what she wants to achieve for herself this year....how cool is that? It seems like we are so hard on ourselves to be perfect, but if we work on one thing, which could be so much in itself, how much better we could feel about ourselves.
Here is what is on her blog.....
"Your word can be anything you want it to be - it does not have to be soulful, or clever, or original. It can be practical and tangible. Don't worry if someone else has chosen the same word as you - this is just for you. You don't have to be creative - just be true.The idea behind the one little word concept is to give yourself something to focus on throughout the year. "A single word can be a powerful thing. It can be the ripple in the pond that changes everything. It can sharp and biting or rich and soft and slow."It can be something tangible or intangible. It could be a thought or a feeling or an emotion. It can be singular or plural. The key is to find something that has personal meaning for you. This is not your mother's word or your spouse's word or your child's word - this is YOUR word.One little word can have big meaning in your life if you allow yourself to be open to the possibilities. And here's one thing that is totally interesting: sometimes a word will pop into your brain and it will not make any sense to you right now. Give it some time. Let it percolate a bit. I have often found that our hearts speak to us in very unique ways. Maybe this is a word you need to hear but just aren't ready for it yet. Again, be open to the possibilities."
I have pondered on this for a few days now, and believe me, I have had many words run through my mind, but I have zeroed in on one! Here it is....
AMBITION....
The meaning of this word is this.......a strong desire to gain a particular objective; specif., the drive to succeed, or to gain fame, power, wealth, etc.
...eager desire
I am focusing on the desire part of this word. I have all the desire for certain things in my life, but if I don't have the ambition to accomplish these things, the desire means nothing. So there you have my word....AMBITION.....
What's your's going to be?

Inspirations?

2009-01-09T14:27:00.005-07:00

This is such a hard time of year for me. The hustle and bustle of the holidays, which I really do love and miss, is over. And it seems to be hibernating time around here. I have so many projects and ambitions churning around in my head, but I can't seem to grasp them long enough to make them reality. How do you get through this season, and actually accomplish something? Please share!!!

New Year,,,,New Aspirations

2009-01-08T20:40:00.003-07:00

So, yes, it is the new year. I have a new outlook on my life for this year. I hope for it to be absolutely wonderful, in all aspects of my life. My wifehood, motherhood, sisterhood, childhood, friendhood, spirituality, creativity, emotionally, and physically. My goal is to ramble on this, my personal blog, and hope to make new and old friends again. I hope you will join me on this journey this year. I will keep up on my creations and goals here too. Unfortunately, you won't see pictures of my family here. They are tucked in safe and sound on my family blog. So I will be back with what the plans are for tomorrow, and I invite you to read, comment, and join me this next year.