The Tapestry of Life

ABC Wednesday ~ B~ is for . . .

2012-01-24T13:29:00.000-06:00

~ Bone China ~

First let me say that I am dish-aholic ... yes ... it is sad, but very true. Over Christmas I pulled out some 8in., purple, glass plates that I bought several years ago. My husband commented that he thought he knew of every dish in our home. Why burst his bubble?

Anyway, I will say ... I do not have any fancy china place settings. I did not "register" a china pattern when we got married. Most of the dishes I have would probably be considered "pottery", not china.

However, I do have "bone china" and I'm sure most of you do too. I have a few plates, but most of my "bone china" is in the form of TEA CUPS, which I collect.

What exactly is "Bone China"? It is a soft-paste porcelain that is made of bone ash, feldspathic material, and kaolin (laymen's terms, soft rock minerals). Bone China has at least 30% bone ash, which is derived from animal (usually cattle) bone. It is know for it's whiteness, translucency, and despite it's fragile appearance, strength and chip resistance.

Generally, Bone China is registered and it's trademark and pattern can be found under each piece. Over time these can become difficult to read. An easy way to see if it is an authentic piece, hold the piece up to a light. Place your hand behind it. You should be able to see your fingers through it.

Thanks to Mrs. Nesbitt and her team for this wonderful meme.
To find more post on the letter "B".
check out ABC WEDNESDAY

Project 365

2012-01-23T12:27:00.000-06:00

Jan.15, 2012

Jan.16, 2012

Jan17,2012

Jan.18,2012

Jan.19,2012

Jan.20, 2012

Jan21, 2012

ABC WEDNESDAY ~ A is for ....

2012-01-17T12:13:00.009-06:00

ABANDON~to cast away, leave, or desert,
as property or a child.

I am so glad I got out and got these photos yesterday. Today we are having a winter storm.

I have no idea what this structure was. It is small, but looks like at one time it could have been someone's home. You can see the fire stack at the far end. It is across from a large farm. Perhaps it was a home for migrant workers.

There is new buildings going up around this farm. Even though the house looks to be well kept, the barns behind need lots of work. What you can't see is there is a padlock on the door.

This is a large factory or warehouse along a railroad track. Perhaps at one time it was some sort of granary. You can see that many of the windows are boarded up.

I love ABC Wednesday! Thanks to Mrs.Nesbitt and her team for hosting it.

To see more posts for "A"

Click on over to ABC WEDNESDAY

Project 365

2012-01-17T11:34:00.000-06:00

~Jan.8,2012 ~

~Jan. 9,2012- Lettuce growing~

~Jan.10,2012~

~Jan.11,2012- new growth on Ornamental Cabbage plants

~Jan.12,2012-Winter has arrived~

~Jan. 13,2012~

~Jan.14,2012~

Coffee Klatch Friday

2012-01-12T22:51:00.001-06:00

WELCOME!
Come ... sit. The coffee is ready and I baked some cookies to share . This recipe is my Mom's recipe for Chocolate Chip Cookies. I substituted M&M's for the chocolate chips.
These cookies are just perfect for dunking! They are crispy and crunchy, not soft and chewy. So. if you want a glass of milk instead ... I totally understand.

This week for Coffee Klatch Friday I have chosen to have a discussion. This came about after reading several blogs. Now I know that we cannot have a real discussion, but I hope you will share your insight on the subject.

THE SUBJECT:
How do you take care of yourself? What do you do to re-energize yourself, to be the best you can be for your family and friends? What do you do for your "me time"?

You know, as mother's, wives, best friend's, and big sister's, we feel that we need to make everything okay for everyone in our lives. But worrying and stressing over what other people should do or what we need to do to help them is not good for us. We need to step back and take time for ourselves.

How do I do that?

Mostly in little ways.

When I work long hours, I come home, have a lite dinner, take a hot bath, and go to bed early. I don't do the dishes or worry about laundry. They will still be there. (When my children were in Jr. High and High School they were required to fix dinner once a week, including clean up. On Saturday morning they would decide what they wanted to make and on what day they would make it. When I went grocery shopping whatever was needed was bought. At first it was more of a hassle than a help, but it taught then several things ( how to follow a recipe, planning out meals, using your time wisely) and eventually freed up some time for me.) I have come to realize that dinner doesn't have to be a huge production. It's ok to have soup and a grilled cheese sandwich or French Toast for dinner. A large salad and baked potato is a great meal, quick, easy, and not heavy. I have also come to realize that most things don't need to be done "right now".

Yes, we do need to keep things neat and tidy, but not to the point that it stresses us out.

My "me time" also involves , at least once a month, going to Antique shops. I'm not necessarily going to buy something, but just to look. It is time that I spend by myself, enjoying something, without someone trying to get my attention. I think it's important to get away from your normal routine, to be away from things that can barge in and steal away the time I have chosen for me. I think the most important thing is, the time does not have to be long, but you do need to make "the time", to do something you enjoy.

So, how do you spend time on yourself? What are some of the things that you have come to realize you need to do to keep your life less stressful? Many people will say they don't have stress. Day to day life is stress ... it's how you handle it.

Looking forward to what you have to share.
Please remember to LINK up!
~Vicki~

Project 365

2012-01-08T02:44:00.000-06:00

I think this is kind of a cool idea. Post 1 picture a day of something in your life. Ok ... posting 1 picture everyday ... not really cool, at least for me. BUT ... I will take 1 (yeah right, more like 10) picture a day and post 7 each week. Here is this week's photos.
Jan. 1, 2012~ Our house guest~

Jan. 2, 2012 ~ Just before dusk~

Jan. 3,2012 ~ Frost on window after coldest night so far for this year.

Jan. 4,2012 ~Hockey practice~

Jan. 5, 2012 ~ Our house from the woods~

Jan. 6,2012 ~Full Moon on cloudy night~

Jan. 7,2012 ~ Walk along the river~

Coffee Klatch Friday

2012-01-06T19:46:00.000-06:00

Here are the questions:

1. What was 1 of the memorable events in your life last year?
2. What do you look forward to regarding your blog for this year?
Here are the answers:1. I'd have to say my youngest, my baby, moving out on her own. Yes, we have an empty nest now.In saying that, I know for some people it is a hard adjustment. For me, it hasn't been to bad. The reasons are#1. daughter #2 was working 2 jobs and going to school. She was, pretty much only home to study and sleep, eat, and do laundry. She already was kind of on her own, without actually being on her own.#2. I am one of those people who doesn't mind being alone. I enjoy the quiet when I am watching tv or on the computer (in fact, when I am on the computer, the sound is usually off). I have never been one to go out and party or have to be with someone so I'm not I'm bored. 2. Ahhhh ... for blogging, I want to get back into some meme's that I have done in the past. I especially enjoy ABC WEDNESDAY and am going to try my hand at Project 365(6). Project 365 is where you take a picture a day and post it. Now .... I'm sure you're thinking ... hmmmmm ... I haven't seen any pictures. You are right! I have never been one of those people who post daily on my blog. I have decided that I will post 7 pictures on Sundays. They won't be perfect, they probably won't be memorable or of any significance ... I lead a pretty mundane life ... but it will be something that will have been part of my day.I will also be posting (at least trying to) everyday things, like recipes (I know, some of you don't cook and that's ok), crafts, garden stuff, etc. So please come back often and leave a comment or 2 ... or 3... or 4. Feedback is a great encouragement!

So, what are you waiting for?

Coffee Klatch Friday

2012-01-06T09:17:00.001-06:00

Happy 1st. Friday of 2012!

Grab your cup and get a comfy seat! Did you get a good night's sleep? Me? No, too many things were running through my head.First, I want to thank those who left comments about this meme. I guess we will just have to wait and see what the days ahead bring. At least for now, we'll march ahead ... hoping more will join in.Today is just a little impromptu post. I wanted to do something different, but that didn't pan out. Oh well, there's plenty of time ahead. Today there are just a couple quick questions.
1. What was 1 of the memorable events in your life last year?
2. What do you look forward to regarding your blog for this year?
I'm going to post this now so you can get started. Look for my post later today.

COFFEE KLATCH FRIDAY

2012-01-03T14:43:00.000-06:00

Are you ready?

I know it's been awhile ... and in all honesty I was going to chalk it up as a failure. I have enjoyed getting to know the one's who have posted and I am glad that they have been willing to share themselves. I had hoped that more would post and not just drop by and read. So, here's your chance. Does the Coffee Kolatch go or stay? What are some ideas that you want to share? What are things you enjoy or want to know more about? I guess, what I should be asking is ... What would you comment on?

Getting back in the GROOVE

2012-01-03T14:04:00.000-06:00

Happy 2012!

I don't know about you ( well, I kinda do. I have visited several blogs), but this Holiday Season has thrown me a little off kilter. It just seems (to me) that today should be Wednesday or Thursday, not Tuesday.
I guess, once I really get back in the swing of things, everything will fall back into place.

Part of the reason I feel this way is because, several days over the past week we were dog sitting. We had our older daughter's 4 year old, chocolate Lab, Indy, as a house guess. She is a good dog, but one that is use to being at home, alone during the day. This meant (to her), if there was movement ... there was something to investigate. As, a consequence, I watched a lot of TV and read. Hubby sleeps days, he works nights and was not too excited when 2 dogs were romping and barking around the house.

All is good though. I never take Christmas down right away. I enjoy the evenings, sitting in the warm, soft glow of Christmas lights, reading or on my laptop enjoying a hot cup of tea. By the end of this coming week-end it should be all down and the house will be back to normal.
Looking forward to a great year of blogging ... for me ... and you!
~Vicki~

Tick, tock, tick, tock, ... tick tock ...

2011-12-31T14:21:00.000-06:00

The year is winding down. Here in The Land of The World's Largest Water Park (even though I'm 1 1/2 hours away), it's a cold, foggy day. There is a slight wind and you can see precipitation in the air, but it's not really something you can feel or measure. I hate gloomy days. But if we didn't have them ... Would we appreciate the sunny days as much?

Even though this year is going out in a blah, bleak manor, at least in my part of the world, the promise of a new year, with great adventures is something to look forward to. I'm not saying that everything will be rosy and cheerful ... there will be losses... disappointments ... but those things make us who we are. They teach us and hopefully make us stronger ... make us better.

So here is to 2012 and to you! May the year ahead be a year of great accomplishment , a year of dreams coming true, a year of hard work, and a year of great friendships.
~Vicki~

More "How to's"

2011-12-30T18:33:00.001-06:00

It has been awhile and I am back on my old computer. The main reason for this is because all my pics are here. But I have to tell you ... trying to do anything here is like trying to scrape gum from your shoe. No matter what you do, it just takes forever to get things nice and crisp and new.

You will notice that I have changed my background and header. This took me a good 3 hours, when in all actuality, if everything was running smooth ... it would have been done in 1 or less. I know that soon I will have to let hubby tear everything apart and redo it so that I will be up and running at full speed again.

Anyway~
I thought I would share a blog where I have found great resources on how to do things. Hop on over there and take a look! I'm sure you will find something that you want to try. Sarah @ Clover Lane has a great Blog and some great tutorials!
~Vicki~

Merry Christmas

2011-12-25T22:36:00.000-06:00

I have missed you my dear friends and I trust that you enjoyed the day with people you love and good food. My computer is still having some issues , but hubby has been able take care of a few of them. He also bought me a new laptop for Christmas. Now, I just have to lean where everything is on it and I will be doing ok. I am so looking forward to hearing from you again.
Don't be a stranger!
~Vicki~

Technical Difficulties

2011-12-06T11:47:00.000-06:00

I just wanted you to know that I am having some problems with posting. Actually, it's my Mouse that is giving my problems. Last Thursday the Mouse that I had stopped working. The "new" Mouse that I have ... for some reason ... sticks and at some point, usually when I am almost ready to post, erases everything.

Hope to be back soon!

COFFEE KLATCH FRIDAY

2011-12-01T18:58:00.000-06:00

WOW!!! Is it Thursday already? I trust you enjoyed your Thanksgiving Holiday. Mine was busy. Son came into town for a few days. We celebrated "Baby Girl's" birthday ( the 25th). Just a lot of enjoying one another in a short amount of time.

I want to let you know that I really appreciate the women who have posted on this meme. I have enjoyed learning about you and I am grateful that you care enough to share yourself with me and whoever else that stops by to read.

As we head into the Christmas Season (no political correctness here), I hope you will share a little of your family life. For the next five weeks ... YES 5 ... I am asking you to share some of the TRADITIONS that your family partakes in. That would be 1 tradition a week. Now ... don't let the word "TRADITION" get you in an uproar. It doesn't have to be anything Spectacular, just something you and\or your family does at this time of year. It may be something you are starting this year or something you have done for many years. It can be something HUGE! It can be something small. And please ... visit the other Bloggers who post and leave a comment.

Subject ~
Did you go "Black Friday" shopping? If so, Did you get any great deals? If not, How did you spend "Black Friday"?

COFFEE KLATCH FRIDAY

2011-11-18T09:40:00.000-06:00

Good Morning! Welcome to the 7th COFFEE KLATCH FRIDAY! Come, sit, enjoy a cup of something warm!

First, let me share that I quit the job that I told you about last week. Thanks for all your input and encouragement.Second, let me apologize for this late post. I have been under the weather this week. The dreaded FLU has hit my home. This version has a horrendous headache attached to it which makes it hard to concentrate ... it's one of those headaches that you just want to close your eyes so everything will go away. Even though I have taken medication to help me feel better the headache never completely goes away. BUT ... I am slowly feeling better.
Today we are to share 7 photos of things we are THANKFUL for. The plan was to take on picture a day. Of course, being sick, I was unable to do that. BUT ya'll know we are not that ridged around here. So I will be using a few "old" pics that I have.
#1 Friday, 11/11 was Veterans Day

I am thankful to the men and women who have fought to keep our country free and safe.#2

My husband. This was taken 2 weeks ago as we began our yard clean up. He is a good provider and a hard worker. #3.

My job. Even though this was the last week of work for the season ... I LOVE my job!It is hectic, it is crazy hours, but I enjoy it to the max!#4

My kids! This picture is almost a year old. The reason I am using it is because we are seldom all together in one spot at a time. My son lives in a different state and only visits a couple of times a year.

My sweet Tillie. She is 13 years old. She has been the best dog we have ever had. Yes, she is MY dog. She follows me everywhere. She has separation anxiety when I am gone. I LOVE animals and am thankful for such a faithful pet.

You may thing that this is a strange thing to be thankful for.

Having 24 inches of my colon removed presents problems at times. If I have too much liquid, or eat something too spicy, or rich my colon goes crazy. Luckily, even after 18 years... I am able to use these to products and keep things pretty much under control. I am thankful that I have not had to go to something that is stronger and that I could only get by prescription.

I am thankful for sunshine! I am one of those people who needs and love the sun. If you look closely, there is ice on our pool. I took this yesterday morning. It was about 26 out. Today it was the warm temp of 30 and the ice is still there. I can tolerate cold ... as long as there is sunshine.

Looking forward to seeing what you are thankful.

COFFEE KLATCH FRIDAY

2011-11-10T11:19:00.000-06:00

Getting by with a little help from my friend's.Today is the 6th Coffee Klatch Friday!And today ... the format is going to be a little different.
Today I am asking my friend's for their opinions.If you have been reading my blog you know that I took a job, somewhat different than what I was doing, but in the same company. This is a seasonal job. It in no way affects my previous job. My previous job is still there... just slowing down and soon will be laying off people. I have to admit, that was one on the reasons I enjoy this job. A little down time over the Holidays.Back to my new job ... I am thinking about quitting it. There are several reasons. First, we have to SELL the product. People come in to buy items and that's ok, but we are required to show them 8 other products and try to get them to buy them. I don't like people pushing me and I don't like feeling that I am pushy to someone else.Second, we had our 1st (if you could call it that) winter storm yesterday. I worked for the previous job and it took me almost 30 minutes to get to my school. Traffic was terrible, weather was terrible ... it was not a fun time at all. I figured out that if I had gone to the "new" job, I would have been at least 45 minutes late. If there are only 2 of you working ... this can cause a great havoc ... for you and the customers. The job is already 50 minutes away and it is not too bad when it is daylight, but if we were to get a storm while I was at work ... taking 2 hours to get home in the dark would not be fun.Third, we are on a "come in as needed" scheduled. Meaning, I am scheduled for certain days. I must call in the night before to see if I am needed (is there enough going on) to be there the next day. So far, the 2 days I was scheduled I was not needed.I have never quit anything! And even though I want to quit ... I have mixed feelings about doing so.HELP ME!!! I just need so reassurance that I am making the right choice.
SUBJECTThis week there is no subject. HOWEVER, starting on Friday, Nov.11, please take a daily photo of something you are thankful for. At the next Coffee Klatch Friday you should have 7 photos to share!Have a great week!~VICKI~

COFFEE KLATCH FRIDAY

2011-11-03T20:45:00.000-05:00

WOW!! Can you believe it??! It's the 5th Coffee Klatch Friday!

Come on in! Sit! Have a hot cup of something ... coffee, tea, hot chocolate, apple cider ... You are with friends!
Today we are chatting about our "Bucket List's".I'm sure you've seen the movie. A dying man decides he wants to do all these crazy, dangerous thing because he has found out that he doesn't have much longer to live,Hmmmmm.... I'm not sure my list is really crazy, or for that fact dangerous. AND ... let me say that many of the things that I have done weren't even on my list. BUT ... I have been blessed to be able to do them and are grateful for the experiences.
1. I have always wanted to take a "stained glass" class.

I would love to make something like this to hang in my window.2. I would like to raise chickens and have farm fresh eggs.

3. I would like to go to the Hot Air Balloon Festival in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

4. I would LOVE to go to Africa. (The photographer in me )

5. I would like to take a cruise to the Bahamas.

I have been to the outer Islands of the Bahamas and plan to go back.

The Cruise would take me to "The Atlantis Waterpark" which is my true destination.

Taking the cruise is cheaper than taking a vacation to Atlantis.

6. I would love to have a "Beach House", somewhere where it is warm all winter.

7. I would love to see Whales in the wild.

8. I would love to see Manatee in the wild.

9. I would love to learn how to make Biscoti.

I have tried, but it just never turns out right.

10. I would like to meet some, most, all of my blogging friends.

SUBJECT

MY FAVORITE CANDY

Over the years my favorite candy has changed ... a little.

When I was a child, my favorite candy bar was a MARS BAR.

Until recently ... when I found them at a popular retail store... I had not given them much though because it has been some time since I have seen them.

When I was in High School, everyday of my Sophomore I ate a bag of M&M's

I also liked "Bit O Honey" candy which is kinda like a toffee.

Now ... I don't eat candy a lot. BUT if I do have a candy bar it is a SNICKERS.

I also enjoy an M&M Blizzard on occasion

Looking forward to seeing your lists!

Thanks for stopping by!

Have a GREAT week!

~FYI~ Coffee Klatch Friday~

2011-11-02T21:37:00.000-05:00

This is a shout out to all my Coffe Klatch Friday friends. If you have checked on any comments that I have left on other peoples blogs you will know that I have been working 2 jobs. This week these jobs have been overlapping. Unfortunatly that cuts down on the time I am on-line. This looks like it may be the last week of 2 jobs (working in the same company, 2 different locations, 2 different , but similar positions). YEAH!!! I am looking forward to being able to put more time in on getting to know each of you.
Tomorrow afternoon wil be the regular Coffee Klatch Friday post. I know you are all fast thinkers and will be able to post on short notice.

Getting to know you ~
10 (or close to it) items on your "Bucket List"
Subject~ With Halloween being this past week.
Please share with us what your favorite candy is and why it is your favorite.

COFFEE KLATCH FRIDAY

2011-10-28T00:51:00.000-05:00

Welcome to the 4th Coffee Klatch Friday!
Pour a cup of coffee ( or the drink you prefer), pull up a chair, sit ... relax ... visit ... enjoy! You are with your friends.

Today we are sharing 10 things that we have done.
1. I have been "Cruising" Meaning that I have been on a Cruise ... actually 3. My first Cruise was a present for my 50th birthday. I went to Cozumel, Mexico with my oldest daughter and some of her friends.My second cruise was with hubby for our 30th Anniversary. My 3rd cruise was with my daughter and grandchildren for Spring Break.

I think that going on a Cruise is an economical way to take a vacation to a place and to participate in some activities that you may otherwise not get the chance to do.
2. I have kissed a Stingray.

It is said ... If you kiss a Stingray, you will have good luck for 1 year.
3. I have attempted underwater photography.

You may remember from my list of things I have not done that I never learned to swim. But that doesn't stop me from sitting in 4 feet of water or throwing on a life jacket and grabbing a camera to attempt new things.
4. I have been to The Mall of America.

The Mall of America is in Bloomington, Minnesota. It is the home of over 520 retail stores. Yes, we do some shopping while we are there, but we always spend much more time in the Amusement Park in the center of the Mall.

5. I have "observed" a marathon.The Chicago Marathon.

2 of my children have participated in the Chicago Marathon ... twice.
6. I have made a cheesecake from scratch.I have no picture. It was almost 12 years ago. It was time consuming and I'd like to try it again ... I just can't find the time to try again.
7. I have been to The Statue of Liberty.

My sister, 3 brothers, and I took a "siblings trip" to New York in May.Where is the 3rd brother ... he's taking the picture.8. I have been "river tubing".

For the past 2 summers, this is how my family enjoys those HOT summer days.9. I have been to Butterfly World in Coconut Creek, Fl.It is suppose to be the largest butterfly habitat in the U.S.

10. I have survived Cancer.In 1993 I was diagnosed with Colon Cancer. I was 36 years old.I had surgery to remove 24 inches of my colon and had to do a year of treatment.
The reason behind doing many of these things is because I survived cancer. I learned that making memories and spending time, taking pictures and enjoying the one's you love are what will last. I havebeen blessed to have the opportunity to do these things. No one knows what tomorrow will hold ... so make the most of today.
My Recipe
As the weather gets colder, I revert back to foods that are simple and make me feel cozy.Chicken & Noodles I brown boneless chicken breast {using a non stick spray like PAM) in a pot. How many? At least a couple, depending on how much I want to make. I brown both side to a lovely shade of caramel brown. This will also give you some caramelization ( this adds flavor) in your pot. Once the sides are browned, I add just enough water to cover the breasts and let them simmer for about 15 minutes. I remove them from the pot, letting them cool slightly, and shred them. Back in the pot they go with a can or 2 of chicken broth. I salt and pepper the ingredients and then add about 3/4 of a bag of egg noodles. Stir, stir, and stir. The noodles will absorb most of the liquid, so you may have to add more water, but not a lot. It's ready when the noodles are tender. Sometimes I will add some diced carrot or celery when I am simmering the breasts to add more flavor... just depends on what I have on hand and how soon I want to eat.
Please remember to add the COFFEE KLATCH FRIDAY button to your post and link your post with the Simple Linked widget.Thanks for sharing a cup of coffee !

COFFEE KLATCH FRIDAY

2011-10-25T18:48:00.000-05:00

Happy Tuesday all my Coffee Friends! Sorry I'm a couple of days late. Here's what's up for this week.
Please list 10 things you have done.
The subject this week will be a recipe.Anything FALLish, ie something you like to fix when cooler weather takes over the short, Fall days.It can be anything!
Looking forward to hearing from you!~Vicki~

2011-10-20T22:02:00.009-05:00

COFFEE KLATCH FRIDAY

Welcome to the 3rd Coffee Klatch Friday!

I have been encouraged by those who have posted. It's always hard to start something new, especially at my age (50 something) and after the first week it would have been easy to slate this Meme as a failure. Thank you Chris, for keeping after me to post. I am not sure how long this will last, but I am sure I will make new friends.

~The Goal ~

To have a community of bloggers that are friends,

that can come together once a week with ideas and

support for one another. We all blog for different

reasons. For some, it is to be heard, for some it is to

share, and for some it may be acknowledgement.

After all, many blogs are just your thoughts, feelings,

and experiences ... that you share ... and here it is

easier.

This week's . . . I want to say questions . . . but they are really more like statements.

Please list 10 random things that you have

never done.

1. Eaten Blueberry Pie
~ My favorite pie is Raspberry. I enjoy Blueberry Muffins and pancakes, but for some reason Blueberry Pie looks, at least to me that it would be too sweet.~

2. Been to Canada
~ I love to travel and some day my get to Canada. Hubby has been there several times.~

3. Worn a Wedding Dress
~ Hubby and I eloped almost 33 years ago, and even though I did wear a dress... it wasn't a Wedding Dress or anything formal.~

4. Sang Karaoke
~ I have gone to karaoke (cruise ship) , but I'm more of an observer ... not participant.~

5. Been skiing (snow or water)
~ The rest of my family snow ski and go a couple times a year. Hubby and 1 daughter have watered skied , not sure my knees would hold out. ~

6. Eaten Sushi
~YUCK!~

7. Gone sky diving
~ 2 of my children have gone sky diving and the 3 would love to try. I possibly could do this, but have never given it much thought.~

8. Gotten a tattoo
~ 2 of my children have tattoo's and where we live it is a very popular thing to do. I would say that 60% of the women I work with have them ... just not for me~

9. Learned to swim
~ I have taken swim lessons... I was probably about 7 years old, but ... I really can only dog paddle, so maybe I could save myself, but you would be out of luck. ~

10. Been to Alaska
~ I have mixed feels about this ... I would love to see Alaska, but I really don't like cold weather ... I love HOT weather. Yes, I know I live where cold weather is part of the norm, but I am content to stay insides for weeks at a time when we have that weather.~

SUBJECT:
Please share with us something that you do to prepare for this changing weather.

One of the things we have to do to prepare for the changing season is massive yard work. With almost 30 broad leaf trees and almost the same number of pine trees, our yard gets pretty messy when all those leaves start falling. Unfortunately, falling leaves can go on for weeks. That means the clean up goes on for weeks too. Leaves are raked, mowed, and burned ... yes ... we can do that out in the country, but that is left for a last resort. Leaves are also mulched to cover flower beds. Apples from our trees that are not usable or have fallen on the ground are gathered and piled on the edge of the wooded lot next door for the wildlife that gather there.

We have been able to mow and mulch the leaves in our front yard once so far. Hopefully, we will get the backyard done this Saturday. Rainy and windy weather have hampered our yard work, but ... it's not really going anywhere anytime soon.

Your turn!.

Please link up and remember to include the COFFEE KLATCH FRIDAY button in your post.

~Vicki~

COFFEE KLATCH FRIDAY

2011-10-16T21:28:00.002-05:00

Welcome to the 3rd Coffee Klatch Friday!

I have been encouraged by those who have posted. It's always hard to start something new, especially at my age (50 something) and after the first week it would have been easy to slate this Meme as a failure. Thank you Chris, for keeping after me to post. I am not sure how long this will last, but I am sure I will make new friends.

~The Goal ~
To have a community of bloggers that are friends, that can come together once a week with ideas and support for one another. We all blog for different reasons. For some, it is to be heard, for some it is to share, and for some it may be acknowledgement. After all, many blogs are just your thoughts, feelings, and experiences ... that you share ... and here it is easier.

This week's . . . I want to say questions . . . but they are really more like statements.

Please list 10 random things that you have never done.

They don't have to be things that you would like to do. Just, maybe things that you know of others doing that you have not. You can elaborate as much or as little as you want.

Subject

No matter where you live, the weather is changing.

Please share with us something that you do to prepare for this changing weather.

Looking forword to your post on Friday, Oct. 21!

Meet Me On Monday

2011-10-16T21:15:00.000-05:00

Welcome to the 53rd edition of
"Meet Me On Monday!" Every Sunday Never Growing Old will post five get to know you questions that you can copy and paste into your own Monday post and we can all learn a little more about each and every one of us!!
Questions:

1. The thing that scares me the most is __________?

Being a Christian and believing that God is truly in control of my life and the lives of my family members ... at this point in time I have nothing to fear. I have been close to death and have survived, but only because God has more for me to do.

2. Do you like nuts in your Chocolate Chip cookies?
No nuts for me.

3. If you couldn't change the channel, what tv show would drive you from the room?

The Office

4. Pulp or no pulp in your Orange Juice?

5. Who do you miss the most?
My parents. This was taken 6 months before my Mother passed away. My Dad passed away 4 years later.

To see more Meet Me On Monday posts click on the Meet Me On Monday button at the begining of this post.

COFFEE KLATCH FRIDAY

2011-10-14T09:23:00.007-05:00

Welcome to the 2nd Coffee Klatch Friday!

~The Goal ~
To have a community of bloggers that are friends, that can come together once a week with ideas and support for one another. We all blog for different reasons. For some, it is to be heard, for some it is to share, and for some it may be acknowledgement. After all, many blogs are just your thoughts, feelings, and experiences ... that you share ... and here it is easier.

This weeks Question(s) :

What did you want to be when you grew up? Are you that now? What is 1 thing you LOVE about what you do , or who you are?

This week's subject:

Please share a photo or 2 of what your area of the world looks like.

1.What did you want to be when you grew up?

First, let me say that when I was growing up girls (women) were not given or told about all the opportunities that were available to them. I grew up in the 60's and 70's. The popular role models that we had were Teachers, Nurses, Mothers, and Musicians. I don't remember any one of my friend's saying that they wanted to be a Police Officer, Air plane Pilot, Scientist, or Fire Fighter ... those were what boys were encouraged to be. So, of course, I wanted to be a Teacher . . . a Special Ed Teacher. I did start my education in Early Child Development, but life happened and I started a family and didn't finish all the requirements that were needed.

2.Are you that now? What is 1 thing you LOVE about what you do , or who you are?

What am I? A Photographer. I am the person who goes to your child's school and takes their picture for the class picture or Year Book. I love that I still get to work with children. I love that I get to see their energy and inquisitiveness. Many ask questions about my equipment, what something is, how it works. And of, course, I LOVE that I get to see those great smiles! OK, so I have more than 1 thing I love about my job . . . don't you?

Subject:

Autumn is in her full glory in the Mid -West, USA.

Please remeber to add the Coffee Klatch Friday button to your post and LINK up!

Never a dull moment ...

2011-10-14T08:40:00.000-05:00

Here it is Friday morning. I am getting ready to post the Coffee Klatch Friday meme that should have been posted last night. I had my night all planned out. I would order pizza. I would watch " Person of Interest" and then be on the computer for awhile. . .
THEN . . .
My oldest Daughter called. " I am at the hockey rink. I have been sitting in the car for about 45 minutes, listening to music and reading. My car won't start." ( Really??? I wonder why?) " Can you come and give me a jump?" Sure . . . isn't that what a Mom is for.

First I have to clean out my car. Luckily, I had no photo equipment to clear out, but I did have extra supplies and fans. Then a half hour drive to the hockey rink. My Daughter, 2 Grandchildren and their Chocolate Lab are all waiting for me. We take the kids and dog home, go to the auto parts store ( of course she has no jumper cables) and the proceed back to the car to jump the battery.

Has either one of us ever done this?? NO! Daughter gets on her phone and calls a friend who is out of town to get advice. I approach the first guy who comes out the hockey rink and ask for help. He shows us what to do, hangs around to make sure everything is ok and gives some advice about how long the car should be kept running, etc.

As, you may know, my youngest moved out about 2 weeks ago. We have seen her a few times and each time she says " Do you miss us ( her and her dog) yet Mom?" With work, being sick, getting phone calls to run here and there . . . Do I have time to miss anyone?
NOW . . .
to "COFFEE KLATCH FRIDAY"

Coffee Klatch Friday

2011-10-12T20:14:00.000-05:00

I'm sorry that this post is a few days late, working long hours, still having a head cold and having a computer on the blink have all played their part in this post.

Tomorrow is Thursday and here is what will be on the agenda :

Getting to know you :

What did you want to be when you grew up? Are you that now? What is 1 thing you LOVE about what you do , or who you are?

This week's subject :

It is Autumn (at least in the U.S). The weather is changing rapidly in several parts of the country. Please share a photo or 2 of what your area of the world looks like.

Please remember to add the Coffee Klatch Friday button to your post and keep encouraging other's to join.

Have a great week!~Vicki~

COFFEE KLATCH FRIDAY

2011-10-06T20:06:00.000-05:00

Welcome to the first COFFEE KLATCH FRIDAY!
~The Goal ~

To have a community of bloggers that are friends, that can come together once a week with ideas and support for one another. We all blog for different reasons. For some, it is to be heard, for some it is to share, and for some it may be acknowledgement. After all, many blogs are just your thoughts, feelings, and experiences ... that you share ... and here it is easier.

~The Format~

Each Sunday night I will post a couple of "get to know you" questions. After all, we look forward to having coffee with our best friends more than anyone else.

I will also post a subject for that week, which could take any form. It could be a recipe, a craft, a tradition, a photograph ( I am a photographer), or just your thoughts on a subject. The reason to post on Sunday. I want to give you time to think about what you want to share. Many times I want to post on a meme and don't really have the time to say what I want ... the result... I don't post.

So, please join me!

This weeks questions:

(The first is not really a question, but a request)

Please tells us a little about your self ~ where you live, about your family, about your job, what you enjoying doing ... share what your best friend might know about you.

THEN

1. What is one thing you enjoy about where you live?

2. What is one thing that you don't enjoy about where you live?

This week's subject:

Please share a recipe that you would bring to a COFFEE KLATCH at a friend's house.

Please remember to grab the COFFEE KLATCH FRIDAY button!

If you don't already know, My name is Vicki. I live in the Northern , Mid-Western part of the U.S., also known as the Great Lakes Region. I live between a medium size city and a medium size town ... kind of out in the country. I have lived here for 7 years. Before that I live outside a Major city in an area 125 miles south of where I live now. My husband and I met when we were Senior's in high school. We have been married for 33 years and have 3 grown children. Our youngest, who will be 20 next month , moved into her own duplex (renting with friends) last week-end. So, I guess that means we are "empty nester's" now, The only one left at home is our 13 year old Rottweiler/ German Shepard, Tillie.I have worked for a Nationally known Photography Company or over 4 years. I am a School Photographer. Besides photography, I enjoy, cooking, traveling and life!
1. What is one thing you enjoy about where you live?
I love all the wildlife that we see on a daily basis. We have Deer and Wild Turkey going through our yard daily. On occasion, we see Red Fox , Coyotes, Eagles, Owls, and Hawks. Of course we have plenty of squirrels, rabbits, and birds.

2. What is one thing that you don't enjoy about where you live?
We live in a small community. I miss the variety of shopping and restaurants that we had when we live in a larger community. Here, if something you want goes on sale, you better get to the store and get it ... cuz it won't be there for long.
RECIPE:HASH BROWN CHEESY POTATOES
1- LG. BAG FROZEN HASH BROWNS1/4 C. DICED ONION1 tsp salt1 tsp pepper2 tsp garlic powder2- 8oz. cans of Cream of Chicken soup1- 16 oz. tub Sour Cream1 stick of butter (8 TBS), melted4 C. Shredded Cheddar Cheese
Mix the first 8 ingredients together in a bowl.Add 2 c. of Shredded Cheese, mix well.Spoon into a well greased baking dish.Top with remaining cheese and bake at 350 until cheese is golden and bubbly, about 40 minutes.

~ COFFEE KLATCH FRIDAY~

2011-10-02T17:55:00.015-05:00

Are you ready?? Have you spread the news to your friend's? I sure hope so!

WELCOME to the 1st COFFEE KLATCH FRIDAY!

~The Goal ~

~The Format~

Each Sunday night I will post a couple of "get to know you" questions. After all, we look forward to having coffee with our best friends more than anyone else.

So, please join me!

This weeks questions:

(The first is not really a question, but a request)

Please tells us a little about your self ~ where you live, about your family, about your job, what you enjoying doing ... share what your best friend might know about you.

THEN

1. What is one thing you enjoy about where you live?

2. What is one thing that you don't enjoy about where you live?

This week's subject:

Please share a recipe that you would bring to a COFFEE KLATCH at a friend's house.

Please remember to grab the COFFEE KLATCH FRIDAY button!

Looking forward to your post on Friday!

Adding a Button from another blog

2011-10-01T23:47:00.000-05:00

This Friday I will be posting a new meme. To link up to my page I am asking that you grab the COFFEE KLATCH FRIDAY button on my side bar. To do this all you have to do is highlight and copy the code in the box under the button.
Start in the upper left hand corner of the box, left click on your mouse, and drag your cursor over the code. It should turn blue. Then press the CTRL and C keys on your keyboard at the same time. Go to your post and change the format from Compose to Edit HTML, just above this box, upper right hand corner. At the end of everything that is written there, right click and paste. Click back to Compose and the button should be at the end of your post. Click on it to make sure that it brings you to COFFEE KLATCH FRIDAY.

~It's in the details ~Thematic Photographic 164

2011-09-26T19:27:00.000-05:00

It's been awhile since I have been able to participate in Carmi's Thematic Photographic meme. My choice for this theme is something we see so often, but never really up close. It's a part of our daily lives and for the most part, we basically take for granted that it is there. How often do we stop to really observe it's shape ... it's phase?

For more "It's in the detail's" examples click on over to Written, Inc.

~ COFFEE KLATCH FRIDAY ~

2011-09-26T11:27:00.001-05:00

A casual social gathering for coffee and conversation.

I'm trying something new again and I hope you will join me! I have been thinking about this for a few months and have decided it's worth a try.

I know many of us participate in memes. For me, it is an easy way to post something and to get to know other bloggers. I hope this "want to be" meme will become more.

~The Goal ~

To have a community of bloggers that are friends that can come together once a week with ideas and support for one another. We all blog for different reasons. For some, it is to be heard, for some it is to share, and for some it may be acknowledgement. After all, many blogs are just your thoughts, feelings, and experiences ... that you share ... and here it is easier.

~The Format~

Each Sunday night I will post a couple of "get to know you" questions. After all, we look forward to having coffee with our best friends more than anyone else.

I will also post a subject for that week. Which could take any form. It could be a recipe, a craft, a tradition, a photograph ( I am a photographer), or just your thoughts on a subject. The reason to post on Sunday. I want to give you time to think about what you want to share. Many times I want to post on a meme and don't really have the time to say what I want ... the result... I don't post.

So, please join me!

The first Coffee Klatch Friday will meet on Friday, Oct. 7th.

Remember to add the button from the sidebar to link up.

Good Morning Blog-land....

2011-09-24T10:42:00.000-05:00

I feel like I have been away forever! Because of my job (school photographer) I have had very little time to post anything since the middle of July. However, I do peek in a few times a week to see what you all are up to. Normally, about this time in the season, things are starting to slow down a bit, but this year, the company that I work for bought out a competing company, so there is still plenty of work to go around. Even though some of my days will still be rather long, I am going to try to re-enter blog-land and get the posts going again. There have been so many times that I wanted to post things but lack of energy and need of sleep has prevailed.

Not only am I ready to start blogging again, but I'm also ready to re-connect with you... my blogging friends!
Hope to hear from you soon!

~ Vicki ~

You is Kind ... You is Smart ... You is Important ...

2011-09-03T14:28:00.000-05:00

Have you seen the movie or read the book " The Help"? "The Help" is a story about life in the 60's in Jackson, Mississippi. A Story about "colored" maids who are employed by white families. It's about a young woman, (Eugenia) Skeeter, who wants to become a novelist and takes a bold step, convincing a colored maid, Aiblieen, to help her write a book.

At first, Aibileen is reluctant, after all this IS Mississippi, in the HEAT of racial tension. No white person asks a maid what they feel or think ... they mostly expect a maid to do what they are told. The questions can be hard to face. EXAMPLE: What does it feel like to raise white children when someone else is raising your child?

I do applaud this movie for showing the differing attitudes of the white families that employed the maids. Some viewed their maids as possessions. One such person in the movie is Hilly. Of course, Hilly thinks she is superior to EVERYONE. But it just seems strange to me that you would employ someone to take care of your children, clean your house, fix your meals and then try to ban them from using the same washroom (wc) you use. (Go see the movie ... you'll understand what I mean.)

Then there is Skeeter, who LOVED her maid. Cicely Tyson plays Constantine( I love this choice as Cicely has played many rolls as strong, black women in American history), the maid who raised Skeeter. The adult Skeeter sees the value and love that the maids provide to the families they work for. To Skeeter, Constantine is family.

Minny is another maid who decides to help Skeeter with her book after Hilly fires her for using the inside bathroom during a rain storm. Minny is the maid you just want to love! She is feisty, outspoken, bubbling with personality ... but knows her place.

Another important character, at least to me, is Celia. She is not a colored maid. She is not from Mississippi, but she IS an outsider and is treated so. Poor Celia ... all she wants is to be accepted by her Southern neighbors. She thinks that the best way to do this is have a maid. Her relationship with her maid is one of friendship ... appreciation ... she also sees the value that is added to her life through her "Help".

I must interject, that I am glad that in the end ... Hilly gets what she deserves. I am glad that Minny made her a pie. I will tell you right now... I was thinking something else was in that pie ... but not what Minny put in it. In Hilly's case ... I believe in revenge.

I also am glad that Aibileen stood up to Hilly. There are way too many Hilly's in the world... pushing people around.

" The Help" will make you laugh ... "The Help" will bring tears to your eyes. It will give you a VERY small gimps of what life was in Jackson, Mississippi, USA in the 1960's. Hopefully, it will make you think of how to treat others ... of how people, regardless of race or creed effect our lives ... just by being there.

Light at the end of the tunnel ...

2011-08-31T00:48:00.000-05:00

WOW!! I can hardly believe that it has been almost 5 weeks since my last post. I have to say, for me, time has flown right by. As you may know, I am a School Photographer and even though where I live ( Land of the Worlds Largest Park) school does not begin until Thursday. Crazy as it sounds ... I have been working since the 18th of July. Here, in the Land of the Worlds Largest Water Park, many schools do preregistration. Which means that along with paying for classes and books, school pictures are also taken. Before school starts, preregistration hours can be kinda crazy. Most registrations begin in late morning and can last to 8 at night.

So ... Here's to school starting, more regular hours, and more time for blogging!!

BIG ~ Thematic Photographic 155

2011-07-25T21:46:00.000-05:00

Another week has passed and time to start the memes. I enjoy doing these because it helps me to share parts of myself ... things I think ... places I've been ... who I am. As of lately, several memes that I have come to enjoy have not been posted. Maybe ... I'll just have to start one myself ... What do you think??

Even though there has been a few lags ... Carmi over at Written Inc has pretty much kept on top of his game.

Thanks Carmi for giving us something to look forward to ...

Carmi has picked the theme of "BIG". These pictures are from a recent trip to New York. I know that many of us have seen these sites on the early morning shows on TV. BUT ... seeing them at night ... is totally overwhelming.

Times Square ... on Friday night

Products, tv shows, concerts, plays, commercials~

there all here!

Want to see more on the theme "BIG"

Click on over to Written Inc and ENJOY!

Mellow Yellow Monday

2011-07-25T10:28:00.000-05:00

It's been quite some time since I have participated in Mellow Yellow Monday, but I just had to share these beautiful sunrise photos that I took last Friday. I took these as a line of thunder storms were rolling through our area. Hope you enjoy them!

Tabs Menu

2011-07-22T10:28:00.000-05:00

The easiest way to add a tabs menu under your header ( at least that I found ... and believe me I tried several ways over several hours) is this:

1. Click on your DESIGN tab.
2. Under your header box (Title of your page) add a gadget box
3. When the "add a gadget" pops up scroll down to LABELS and click on it.

This will show you every label that you have connected a post with.
You then need to "edit" your labels. You don't want a box for every label you have ever used. You may want to make new labels to group thing together.

Only the labels "checked" will show MENU TABS.
If you want to add old posts to a tab, you need to go to that post and "edit" it by adding that label to it.

Hope this helps!
~Vicki~

ABC WEDNESDAY ~ A is for .... --Vacation ~ Thematic Photographic 154

2011-07-19T11:36:00.020-05:00

APOSTLE ISLANDS~

VACATION ~
A period of time devoted to pleasure, rest, or relaxation

Over @ Written Inc, Carmi has chosen the topic of VACATION for this weeks photo challenge.

Memorial Day week-end and the week to follow, hubby and I took a trip up Nort to the Lake Superior region, to the Apostle Islands. Yes, while it was in the high 80's and low 90's at home, we were the refreshing temperatures of anywhere between 34° and 65°.

The Apostle Islands are made up of 21 island off the coast of Bayfield, Wisconsin.

The morning we took our ferry tour, Superior Lake temperature was a billowy 38°.

The sea caves are a popular place of discovery in the summer time.

On several islands, lighthouses and residences (pictured above and below : Devil's Island) have been restored. Most are places for sightseer's. Madeline Island is the only island that is inhabited.

We also visited a couple of State Parks.

Amnicon Falls

Copper Falls

AND ... Saw some breathtaking sunsets

It's always nice to get away ... AND it's always nice to come home!

ABC Wednesday

Taking a stroll

2011-07-14T13:46:00.001-05:00

through blog land... I found a precious little blog. Looking at The Old White Barn makes me want to change my blog... again. There is a sweetness and comfy home feeling to Susan's blog. Giving her this "shout out" has a dual purpose.

1. I think many of my follower's would enjoy this blog.
2. Susan is having a WONDERFUL Give Away!

Susan just opened an on-line store and has really cute items!

Go on over and check it out for yourself!

The Old White Barn

Tell her ~Vicki~ sent you! 8-D

YES!!! I figured it out!

2011-07-14T00:55:00.000-05:00

Do you ever notice that some blogs have subject tabs under their header? Have you also noticed that when you click on them ... some will take you to a list of those posts ... and (most likely) some take you nowhere or to a page that has links of posts?

Well, I wanted my posts to be linked on 1 page that is connected to the tab. If you tried looking at my blog tonight, you probably saw some crazy things. After hours of reading and messing around with things ... I figured it out!

My first thought was ... Did you really waste so much time on something so simple?

Hmmm ... Do you think I should share my secret?

This is a test

2011-07-13T20:11:00.000-05:00

ha,ha,ha ... I'm trying to figure this out.

Trial and Error

2011-07-13T19:31:00.003-05:00

That's pretty much how I lean. I am one of those people who learns by the "hands on" method. I look at other blogs and then I try things out on my blog. Sometimes I like the change ... sometimes I don't. Here is the place you will find "helpful hints." See something on my blog you want to try on yours? Let me know what it is and I'll do my best to let you know how to do it

Adding a little SPICE ...

2011-07-11T11:45:00.000-05:00

YES ... I am one of those people who is always changing things. Once I get it to where I like it... the changes are almost not noticed.

As you can see ... Things are changing on my Blog ... so come back often ... you never know what you will find!

Tell me what you think so far ~

THE POOL IS OPEN!!!

2011-07-03T11:20:00.000-05:00

FINALLY............

Oh ... I know that many of you have had your pool's open for awhile now.

But here in the upper mid-west. the weather has not been very cooperative

The first HOT week that we had, hubby and I were up at Lake Superior, it was in the 40's and 50's there.

Weeks of cool, cloudy weather followed. A couple of weeks it rained everyday.

FINALLY, we got a break and got a run of sunny, dry weather!!

So BRING ON that HOT, SUNNY, SUMMER WEATHER!!

Cause we are READY for it!!

Wordless Wednesday

2011-06-28T22:36:00.000-05:00

Wordless Wednesday is a great day to post an awesome picture that “speaks” for itself, no words needed!

Here we go 'round the mulberry bush ...

2011-06-22T12:26:00.000-05:00

Do you remember that childhood song?
The first stanza was ~
Here we go 'round the mulberry bush,
The mulberry bush, the mulberry bush.
Here we go 'round the mulberry bush,
So early in the morning.

Well, I'm not too sure about Mulberry Bushes, but we have Mulberry Trees.

So the question arises ... If you live in the country ... or even if you live in town~
Do you teach your children what is safe to eat?

A few weeks back I overheard my grandson ask my husband if they could take a bike ride to the end of the road to eat berries. I just smiled. My daughter would have cringed. BUT, she was raised the same way. At the time we lived in a large town (suburb) outside Chicago. Down the block and around the corner from our house was a house that had a Mulberry Tree. When the berries were ripe and I could not see my children anywhere ... I knew where to look.

My children and grandchild have been taught what wild raspberries and strawberries look like. They have been taught what to look for when picking Mulberries. Tomorrow when my grandchildren are here, I'm sure the bowls will go out and you will find them ( and the dogs) enjoying a sweet summer treat.

Wordless Wednesday

2011-06-22T00:21:00.001-05:00

Family ~ Thematic Photographic 149

2011-06-08T11:17:00.000-05:00

This week, Carmi has chosen the theme ~FAMILY~

This was my family when I was 20

My parents are gone.

This was taken about a month ago when my siblings and I took a trip to New York.

Wordless Wednesday

2011-06-08T10:54:00.001-05:00

ABC Wednesday ~ U

2011-06-08T10:32:00.001-05:00

U is for ~

Unicycle ~

About a month ago I took my first trip to New York City. It was a trip with my siblings who are spread out over the U.S. As in most "Big Cities", you can find "street performers" just about anywhere.
We can across this young man in Central Park. Needless to say ... we were very impressed. Looking back and thinking ... how sad it is that someone this young is out on the street trying to earn a little money to help his family! But I understand the concept all too well. We are more willing to give this young man a buck or 2 than an adult. There are many people out there who need help. We need to remember that we are only responsible for our reasons for helping. The person we give to is responsible for how they use our gift.

See more post on the letter "U" at ABC Wednesday

Meet Me on Monday

2011-06-06T03:06:00.000-05:00

Welcome to the 47th edition of "Meet Me On Monday!"
M.O.M. is a fun little meme over at Never Growing Old. Each Sunday Java will post four get to know you questions.
Today's Questions:
1. What is was the last piece of candy that you ate?

I really don't eat much candy, but I'm thinking it was probably Runts.

2. Do you "read" in the bathroom?

Nope!

3. I can't stand when someone _________?

is rude or out of control. Making their issues know to everyone.

4. Do you do daily, weekly or monthly grocery shopping?

I try to go weekly.

So there you have it.

Click on over to

and see more posts .

And the winner is ...

2011-05-29T00:50:00.000-05:00

Before I announce the winner to my Cottage Giveaway, I'd like to thank everyone who posted comments and who have become a follower of my blog. The past few weeks have been busy for me ... after next week I am looking forward to visiting all my new follower's blogs and making new friends. I am also looking forward to getting back to posting, so come back often and leave lots of comments. I LOVE hearing from you!!

NOW ...

THE WINNER IS ...
Blessings from Cindy

Thanks again to all who entered.
~Vicki~

Meet e on Monday

2011-05-23T10:10:00.000-05:00

Ok ... ok ... I've missed the last couple of MMoM, but I'm back at it ....

Welcome to the 46th edition of "Meet Me On Monday!"

Meet me on Monday is a fun little meme hosted by Java @ Never Growing Old.
Java asks 5 fun questions, you answer them and hopefully they give your reader a little more insight into who you are.

Questions:

1. What is your favorite bagel flavor?
Big Apple's Cinnamon Apple Pie Bagel

2. If you had an extra $100 right now, what would you spend it on?
I'm with Java ~ summer clothes

3. What is the last thing that you felt guilt about doing?
Mailing off a package that should have gone out weeks ago. I want to add a couple of things to it and just haven't gotten out to get them yet ~ my mission for today.

4. Soft serve ice cream or hand dipped?
What is this? A trick question ?!It all depends on what I'm eating. Soft Serve ~

Chocolate and vanilla swirled

Hand dipped

Chocolate chip, cookie dough, Reese's Peanut Butter Cup5. Are you allergic to anything?
Early Springtime I wake up with a lot of congestion, head plugged up and sneezing.

So ... there you have it!

Click on over and join the fun!

A trip to the "BIG" City

2011-05-22T11:01:00.001-05:00

Good Morning! The sun is shinning!!! Almost done with my second cup of coffee. Soon I will be heading out to work in my garden ... BUT ... first...

I just wanted to share a little of last week-end. Let me tell you ... it has taken almost a week to re-coop. I'm not as young as I use to be and having 3 full days of walking around put my body into shock.

Last week-end my siblings and I took a trip to New York. Just five of us, no spouses, no kids, just 3 brothers and 2 sisters.

We haven't all been together in maybe 5 or 6 years. We all live in different states ( MN, VA, WI, CO, OH) and for awhile one brother was pretty much living in Singapore. It was good to see each of them. Although New York was a bit overwhelming. I mean... it is H-U-G-H !! I am use to Chicago. It is a good size city, but probably at least 10 times smaller than New York. It compares right up there with Paris. AND ... there is no way you can do the city justice in 3 days. We crammed as much in as we possibly could, but there is still soooooooooo much more to see.

Let me share so of the highlights!

Maybe next time I'll get to see a Broadway play!

Day 24 ~ 30 Day Challenge

2011-05-19T09:53:00.000-05:00

Day 24
A picture of something you wish you could change

Getting together with family.

This past week-end, Me , my sister and brother's got together for the first time in about 6 years. I think that I am the only one of the 5 of us who have seen everyone within the last year. This was a planned trip of sightseeing. I think we all had a good time, but I would be nice to just hang around together and get to know each other better.

Day 23 ~ 30 Day Photo Challenge

2011-05-18T10:04:00.000-05:00

Day23

A picture of your favorite book

I am not a reader. Not that I haven't read several books. BUT... reading is not on my list of favorite things to do. I read the newspaper ... magazines ... But books ... for me books are a way to past the time when there is nothing else to do.

WELCOME

2011-05-17T12:08:00.000-05:00

I have been out of town for several days and away from my blog. What a great surprise to see how many "New Friend's" I have! I just wanted to give you a warm WELCOME and let you know that I DO appreciate you stopping by and becoming a follower.

If you were visiting my home, we might celebrate our new friendship with a delicious afternoon treat.

I hope that you will visit often and leave many comments!

Looking forward to getting to know YOU!

Vicki

Day 22 ~ 30 Day Challenge

2011-05-10T09:28:00.000-05:00

Day22
A picture of something you wish you were better at

Managing my time!

When my children were younger I was VERY organized, I managed my time well. I really had no choice! Three children in school, I drove them every morning; working, school activities, sports activities, all these things were part of the scheduled daily events.

Now, it's one adult child at home, who by the way can do some of my errands.

Hubby now works night, so we try to keep thing quiet so he can sleep during the day.My work schedule is sporadic. Sometimes I work a lot, sometimes I don't. Sometimes I leave early in the morning, sometimes I leave in the afternoon.

After all ... aren't you wondering WHY this 30 Day Photo Challenge is well past the 30 days...LOL

Day 21 ~ 30 Day Challange

2011-05-09T10:17:00.000-05:00

Day 21-
A picture of something you wish you could forget

There are so many things that happen out in the world ... things that are unmentionable ... things that are horrendous. The things I wish I could forget images of are, things out of our control. The devastation that comes from nature.

We have every little control over things like this and it can literally destroy anyone who has live through it.

It is so sad to realize that your life could change to basically rubble is no time at all.

Annual Cottage Charm Giveaway Event - May 1 thru May 29th!

2011-05-08T13:36:00.002-05:00

I was so excited to see this event! Kim at The Twice Remembered Cottage is hosting it. This is the first time I am joining in on this event and I hope you will consider joining in too!

This is a multi-blog, month long event beginning Saturday, May 1st where bloggers give away on their blogs items they feel exhibit "Cottage Charm". Anyone can join at any point in May before the 29th. On May 29th, all participating bloggers will announce their winners and post it to their blogs.

There are 4 easy steps to follow. To get all the deatils, click on the Giveaway Badge below.

I love the Cottage look! I love the freshness of it! I love the details of it! Roses, pastel colors, ruffles, lace all add to the charm of the Cottage look.Yes, there is a wide interpertation of what "Cottage Charm" is, but I think the best way to sum it up is... Cottage Charm = warmth, coziness, personality.
Here is what I am giving away~

10 inch round Quiche Plate

15 inch tall bear

9X9 inch

Ribbon Embroidered Pillow

Magnets & Note Cards

1.2in X 2.5 in opening,Small While Rose Photo Frame
RULES~You Must leave a comment on this page of my blog.(1 entry)If you are a follower, make sure you let me know(2nd entry)You don't need to have a blog to enter. If you do not, please make sure you leave an e-mail address where I can contact you, in case you are the winner.
Make sure to check out The Twice Remembered Cottage blog page.

Day 20 ~ 30 Day Photo Challenge

2011-05-08T13:07:00.000-05:00

Day20
A picture of somewhere you'd love to travel

AFRICA!

Day 19 ~ 30 Day Photo Challenge

2011-05-07T10:35:00.000-05:00

Day19
A picture and a letter

WOW ... if I knew several years ago that I was going to be doing this challenge ...I'd have the perfect letter. BUT ... I'll tell you about that letter at the end of this post.

This is a picture of my Dad.

At the age of 17 ( in the 50's), my Mother was a teenager who was pregnant with her first child. She did marry the young man who was my father, but his family was not happy about it and they were divorced.

I'm not sure how long my parents knew each other before they got married. I do know my Dad was in the Army, stationed in Tucson, Arizona where my Mom lived with her parents, younger brother, and me. My parents met working at a small "drive in " type restaurant called "The Lucky Wishbone." (The actual location where they worked no longer exists, BUT there are several "Lucky Wishbones" in the Tucson area and I make sure I stop in for dinner whenever I'm there.)

My parents were married just after my 3rd birthday and for a short time my Mom and me lived in Arizona while my Dad was stationed in Illinois. This picture is of a box of letters my Dad wrote to my Mom. Some are before they were married, some are after they were married. This letter, dated April 11, 1961 talks about forms for income taxes and about us moving to Illinois. It's strange think that my parents had such struggles in their life. After all, growing up, I felt like my parents had it all under control.

This box of letters was found after my Dad passed away in 1994. Even though I have looked at them and through them, I have read few of them and never a whole letter. But what I have read and what I witnessed in their lives ...I know my parents loved each other deeply and that's all I really need to know.

The other letter... I one I wish I still had. It was a letter written by my oldest Daughter to my Dad. She was 11 or 12 years old. In the letter she was telling her Grandfather what terrible parents she had. She was pleading a case to get a phone in her room (no such thing as cell phones ) and her parents were not going along with it.

I found that letter, several years later in my Dad's things, after He had passed away. For her 24th birthday I framed it with a picture of them when she was about the age that she had written it.

Vehicular~Thematic Photographic 145

2011-05-07T01:21:00.000-05:00

This weeks theme at Written Inc is Vehicular. Thanks Carmi! I think I'm going have a little FUN with this one!

;~D

Day 18 ~ 30 Day Challenge ... resumed

2011-05-05T08:46:00.000-05:00

Day18
A picture of your biggest insecurity

As you may ... or may not know (depends on how much of my blog you have read) I am a "school photographer". Meaning ... I work for a company which takes pictures of school age children for yearbooks and ID's. You learn how to set up the equipment, everything plugs into a power source and is already calibrated through a computer for you. For posing, you have guide lines to follow. Everything is pretty much cut and dry.

I would love to have a side business. Nothing big, just enough to pay my bills and do a little traveling.

BUT ... what if people don't like what I do? The hard part for me is posing and lighting and of course ... I want the WOW factor ...that's the perfectionist side of me speaking.

I have had several people tell me that I just need to get out there and do it.

Easy for them to say!

ABC Wednesday ~ P

2011-05-04T09:58:00.003-05:00

Here it is another ABC Wednesday! I missed N & O, but that's ok. Work was just soooooooo crazy! And I'm just going to go with the flow.

Todays letter is ~P~

P is for our pet, puppy, Piper who is part Pug ad part Boston Terrier.

This is what she looked like when we first got her

She has a "BIG" smile on her face after an afternoon of running around with my Grandson.

But pretty much ... this is how she spends her day.

Oh ... and can you tell ...

She REALLY HATES the cold weather here in Wisconsin.

For more posts on the letter ~P~ click

HERE

SHOUT OUT ... Long over due....

2011-05-04T09:27:00.000-05:00

Several weeks ago ... April 18th to be exact ... I was named the winner of the CRAZY TOES GIVEAWAY over at Creative Cain Cabin. Dawn is such a sweetie! She has some fun giveaways, tasty recipes, and over all, just a cute little blog.

Here are the nail polishes at my home.

With a cute little note from Dawn. They came in a bright orange box.

Right now, I am spending a lot of time and energy hiding these. I have a teenage daughter who would just LOVE to wrap her toes around these fun colors.

Now that I don't hurt when I bend forward, I will be spiffin' up my toes!

Thanks Dawn!

Meet Me on Monday

2011-05-02T08:30:00.000-05:00

Welcome to another Meet Me on Monday!

Today Java at Never Growing Old is hosting the 44th Edition.

Every Sunday Never Growing Old will post five get to know you questions that you can copy and paste into your own Monday post and we can all learn a little more about each and every one of us!!

Today's questions :

1. What is your favorite kind of muffin?

Blueberry, with or without streusel

2. What was the first car you ever owned?

1974 Pontiac Le Manes

3. Which TV Show were you sad to see end?

4. What is your lucky number?

5. Pretzels or Potato Chips?

So there you have it!

Click on over to Never Growing Old to see more Meet Me on Monday posts!

After 30 ...

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

They say that after 30 your body takes twice as long to heal.

Well ... I sure hope so!! I mean heal ... and hopefully sooner than that!

The past few days I have been moving slow and feeling achy. Yes, part of it was because of my work and sleep or lack of sleep schedules. But part of it was also because, Saturday at work I fell. I was hurrying, carrying 2 cases and tripped. I fell hard on my left knee and caught my right side on a case.

The only time I have pain in my knee is when I kneel on it .... so don't kneel on it... right!!??

BUT... the upper right side of my body is achy... a little pain when I cough or sneeze. At least nothing is broken, but I feel pretty ... yuck ... pretty stiff. Hopefully, by the end of the week things will be back to normal.

I'm B-a-a-a-a-a-a-a-a-a-a-ck!

2011-05-01T08:14:00.000-05:00

Did you miss me? You probably didn't even notice that I haven't posted in over a week .... BUT ... that's ok. I understand. It's Spring and you're busy doing stuff that you haven't been able to do in months.

These last two weeks of work have been S-U-P-E-R CRAZY! Working 12 hour days and getting only 5 hours of sleep takes it toll. BUT ... now it's over and I can get on with life.

There is a lot I need to catch up on (30 Day Photo Challenge). Things I want to post on my blog, things I want to do around the house, things I want to do in the garden.

As I have said before ... I did keep up with a few of you this week and was sooooooo tempted to leave comments, but for the sake of time and rational thought I didn't. So look out this coming week ... I may have a lot to say.

Here's to catching up ... this week!

XOXOX
~Vicki~

Please be seated ~ Thematic Photographic 143

2011-04-23T01:08:00.000-05:00

Here I am again ... joining Carmi @ Written Inc for another Thematic Photographic theme. This week the theme has to do with sitting or seats. So... back to one of my favorite cities ...

and then on to vacation ...

Seems a seat is anywhere you enjoy the view!

Day 17~ 30 Day Challenge

2011-04-22T11:02:00.000-05:00

Day17
A picture of something that has made a huge impact on your life recently

CANCER

17 years ago I had colon cancer. Even though I am cancer free the effects of the treatment still are evident. For the most part I have learned how to control how my body will react to things like diet and stress, but it effects so many of the normal day to day happenings.

2 of the most evident effects ~
Early menopause

Lactose intolerance

Day 16 ~ 30 Day Challenge

2011-04-22T10:46:00.000-05:00

Day16
A picture of someone who inspires you

My Children.

And the winner is .....

2011-04-22T10:23:00.000-05:00

True Random Number GeneratorMin: 1Max: Result:52Powered by RANDOM.ORG
AND who is #2?

Quiltingranny said...

Your blog always makes me smile and I have been through some of those times as well! When I was alone with a broken leg and 3 grands it was neighbors and a few coworkers who let my dogs out, took my oldest to and from the bus..until the bus driver heard about it, then she came to the house. Back surgery? No problem, people I didn't even know yet brought food every evening for dinner. We are blessed!

What does she win??

I still haven't found what I am looking for, but have a back-up idea if I don't find it this week-end.

Congratulations to

Quilting Ranny!

Day 15 ~ 30 Day Challenge

2011-04-21T09:21:00.000-05:00

Day15
A picture of something you want to do before you die

There are really 2 things I would love to do before I die ... ok ... there are more, but 2 of them are more a reality than the others...

I would love to see and take photographs of whales in the wild!

I would love to go to the Albuquerque International Hot air

Balloon Festival in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

Day 14 ~30 Day Challenge

2011-04-19T19:14:00.001-05:00

Day 14
A picture of someone you could never imagine your life without

I accepted Christ as my Savior when I was 9 years old. Having a personal relationship with Christ has gotten me through events and happenings that many people go through daily. But you know, I could never imagine making it through those things without the Solid Ground that Christ has been to me. My requirement is to have Faith and Believe. God's promise is He gives peace.

Meet Me On Monday

2011-04-17T21:16:00.000-05:00

Welcome to the 43rd edition of

"Meet Me On Monday!"

Java @ Never Growing Old hosts this weekly meme. She askes 5 questions for you to answer.
This is a fun way to get to know each other a little better.
So ... COME ON ... JOIN IN THE FUN!!

Questions:

1. Caesar Salad or Garden Salad?

Garden Salad with Ranch or Thousand Island Dressing

2. Will you be watching the Royal Wedding on April 29th?

Probably Not.

3. Last thing you spent lots of money on?

The Cruise to Cozumel that I took 3 weeks ago.

4. Window seat or aisle seat?

Either is fine with me, but I do love taking pictures of above the clouds.

5. Do you know your blood type?

So... there you have it in a nut shell....

Day 13 ~ 30 Day Challenge

2011-04-17T14:46:00.000-05:00

Day13
A picture of your favorite band or artist

I really don't have a favorite, but here are some I listen to.

Daughtry

Bruno Mars

Sugarland

Train

OOOO ... See what I got!!!

2011-04-17T12:32:00.000-05:00

A couple of weeks ago I left a comment on Kathy's post for a giveaway.Kathy has a World Press Blog and was giving away some of her favorite things ... AND guess what ... they were my favorite things too! I know I have been telling you that I have been CRAZY, BUSY with work and I have ... I forgot all about that giveaway. Last week-end, when I finally had time to actually read some of your blogs and the posts you had left me ... I found that I had WON Kathy's (@edshunnybunny) giveaway!!!

Yesterday I received my package.

It was just like Christmas or my birthday!

Kathy had several items wrapped in brightly colored tissue paper!

YES ... that is a wet spot that you see on the green paper.

My mischievous little puppy was nosing around in the box.

One of her favorites is in there too!

Do you know what it is?

Thank You Kathy!!

I LOVE it all!!

The wind chime, the Bath and Body Works items, the photo album, the Word Search, the notepad, the cookie cutters, the candles, the socks, the sewing kit, and the gum!

What a generous giveaway!

Day 12 ~ 30 Day Challenge

2011-04-17T11:46:00.000-05:00

Day 12
A picture of something you love

I LOVE the beach! I love walking the beach in the evening and I LOVE this beach in particular!

Day 11 ~ 30 Day Challenge

2011-04-17T11:34:00.000-05:00

Day 11
A picture of something you hate

I hate crows! We like in a wooded area and have lots of crows. They are such mean birds!

I heart faces | WIND

2011-04-17T10:23:00.015-05:00

It's been awhile since I have participated in a i heart faces weekly challenge. If you LOVE photography ... you should really check this site out. There are all sorts of fun and exciting things for you posted there.This weeks challenge is ~WIND~

Prom is always at the beginning of May. It almost always seems the the weather is cool, even sometimes cold and windy. You can see the wind billowing my daughter's dress and blowing her hair. What you don't see is how cold it it.

To see more photos showing ~ wind~ got to

i heart faces

~GIVEAWAY~ Did you miss it??

2011-04-16T18:55:00.005-05:00

Over the past couple of days, I wrote a post that included a GIVEAWAY. I still don't know what I am giving away, but I pretty much know who is getting it ... only 1 person has commented.

You have til Monday night to comment. Check it out ~17-years-ago-today
~Vicki~

Day 10 ~ 30 Day Challenge

2011-04-16T10:03:00.000-05:00

Day 10

A picture of the person you do the most ****** up things with

As a parent. I really don't do **** up things, and never really have ...
BUT the person I have done most of my adventure with would be my youngest daughter, Lauren.