The Texicanwife Daily

Where'd The Time Go?

2012-01-31T12:59:00.000-08:00

Okay... so here it's been four days since my last post. I'm congested and have a little cough. Otherwise, I don't feel too bad. So what's the excuse for not writing?

I don't have one. Except that... there's been a general malaise. A general laziness that's kept me from doing a lot of anything the past few days.

We did run over to see Mother on Sunday.

That's my beautiful sis, Eydie, on the left. mom in the middle. And that's me on the right. Mother likes to tease me about being more gray-haired than she is. I'm definitely heading to the whitehaired convention! Ha ha. Mom's hair is about the same amount of gray as mine [but then Mother is 21 years older than I am!!! lol] Dad... well, he's pretty white-haired.

[This is a picture of him taken last Wednesday when Mom was still in the hospital.]

I know from photographs that my Dad's father was snow-white haired as an elderly man. And his mother was very light haired, and her hair was extremely thin.

Dad's sister's were all very white haired. [He has one sister still living, my aunt Margaret, she's 97!]

[My Aunt Margaret in 2011.]

And his sisters went white haired at fairly young ages. So, I suppose in my fifty-something age group, I shouldn't be suprised!

But then, Mother's family were all dark haired into their 70's and 80's! Not hard to figure out where I got this from!

Mother didn't turn gray, and then it was simply "salt & pepper" until she was in her mid-60's. Me, on the other hand? I started turning gray in my mid-thirties. But I kept it dyed until 2008, when I decided to go "au naturale".

I was most influenced to do so by actress Jamie Lee Curtis...

...there just isn't a sexier looking gray haired woman out there! She's a real inspiration for all of us 50+ women who want to celebrate who we are.

Hey, we've seen a few miles... and we aren't ashamed to show it!

I'm a hefty broad....eh hmmmm, pardon me....I'm a hefty woman, and I'm not ashamed to say so; I've given birth [naturally I might add] to five children. I haven't taken care of myself like I should've. But then, I am working on correcting what I can at this age, and the shape I'm in.

I've got bone spurs, fibromyalgia, and crohn's. I have some allergies, which tend to keep my sarcoidosis acting up in my lungs. I've survived cancer. And I don't have a pretty complexion [severe acne as a teen.] I've never had perky boobs. And I've gotta hangover belly like you wouldn't believe! My thighs are thunderous.

Bu I have come to embrace who I am, and how I look.

In part, a great deal of my self-confidence didn't come until fourteen years ago, and the man who I now call my husband. Before he came into my life, I had so many hangups it was incredible! [How my poor children turned out so well... can only be due to the grace of God, and the influence of Texican when they were teens.] But he taught me to "unpack" my bags, and let those hangups go.

And so, today, I can work on my imperfections, without being hung up on them. I would rather go to my grave tubby and overweight, having enjoyed that cup of cocoa in the park on a cold winter's afternoon with my hubby, or a glass of wine with an old friend, or my granddaughter's birthday cake, then feeling miserable and saying..."Sorry, I can't have any of that cause I'm trying to watch my weight!"

I do try to keep an eye on myself now. Trying to cut back on calories and sodium. But I give myself enough slack to enjoy myself, too!

Even if I should get small enough to wear a bikini... I would never put one on. It simply isn't me!

So, gray hair? Hey... I wear it proudly.

I haven't been counting calories since Friday. So... I've tried to get back to that today.

While I have been congested the past few days... I've been challenged to learn to excell in, of all games....

...dominoes. Texican has been beating the pants off of me, as it's simply not a game I do very well at. But I am trying!

I still haven't completed the table runner I am working on. think because it's made with a heavy cotton yarn, I simply can't get into it. It's not what I would use. But it's a kit... so I will finish it, just no speedily!

I did cut Texican's hair Saturday...

...and when I was done, he trimmed his beard. He was getting rather shaggy!

So... what do you have planned for dinner this evening?

Our dinner is in the crock pot and I will post pics of it tomorrow. As well as an update on the table runner.

Do you ever cut you spouse's hair? What room of the house do you cut it in? [we use the kitchen]

Have a great evening!

Thursday Reviewed...

2012-01-27T01:00:00.000-08:00

Another good day!

Texican got me up early, so that he could begin working on the hot water heater, which is housed behind a panel in our bedroom panel.Which means, everything has to be removed from the closet, and placed on our bed! Thus the need for me to rise and shine this a.m.!

While he worked on the hot water heater, I worked on some computer things I wanted to get done. Which kept me in the bedroom, and accessible to him for any needed assistance. So... no breakfast this morning. Just a hot steamy mug of coffee and milk.

Lunch time rolled around, and the hot water now heating in the newly repaired tank, we had...

...potted meat sandwiches.

After that, Texican showed me the damage to the heating elements from the hot water tank.

..the bottom element was burnt completely through! The mineral build up was even worse prior to Texican's knocking alot of the build up off during removal! This is the third time we have replaced these elements in four years! And this is also why we never drink the water here! Yuck! We filter our water for cooking and making iced tea and drinks. And buy bottled water for just drinking. [There is still an off taste even when filtered and drinking it plain... so we invest in bottled.] Filtered does fine for iced tea or Crystal Light, and cooking.

While he was in the hot water heater, he also replaced the thermostat, and the breaker to the breakerbox. A little preventative maintenance.

As dinner time rolled around, I didn't feel like much cooking. So... I pulled a couple of standby's out of the cupboard...

...cut green beans and...

...boxed lasagna. It really does taste pretty good for boxed! The sauce is a little on the sweet side [I usually make my own sauce when making lasagna], but still quite palatable.

So... how did my calories stack up for the day??

Calories Consumed: 1,328 [-112]

I could have cut it a bit more... but I'm okay with that!

I did get a little of the table runner worked on that I am crocheting...

While I am not too happy with the thread... I think I kind of like the pattern so far! Should be pretty running across the dining table!

What project are you currently working on?

Are you working on your menu for Friday evening? Next week?

If you are not in the habit of making a menu, try making up a menu for each night's dinner for a whole week before your next trip to the grocery store. Make your shopping list accordingly, and see if you don't save a little bit of money! I've been doing this for years, and wouldn't have it any other way!

Yesterday...Today!

2012-01-26T14:37:00.000-08:00

Okay... so I didn't keep track of what I ate yesterday. My bad!

But here's the reason why! I was so excited to get to go see this lady...

...this is my beautiful Mommy!

If you've been following my facebook entries and praying... this is the face of the sweet, sweet lady you've been praying for.

She is now out of ICU, and in a private room. She didn't let go of my hand the whole time I was there, except for...

...can you believe this? Physical therapy had her up and with their help she walked across her room, and from one side of the hall to the other. She then sat down to rest... and then walked to her bed. It totally exhausted her. And she fell asleep almost instantly. But it was a beautiful sight!!

That's my cousin Pam on the left, and these others? They've been holding the fort down, right there with Mommy every step of this journey and struggle for life. In the white top is my beautiful sister, Eydie. To her right, my youngest brother, Jeff [we have a brother David who lives away]. And to Jeff's right, is our wonderful Dad. I couldn't have borne not being there if not for the fact I knew these three were carrying the load. And still are!!!

I ask that you all continue to keep them all in your prayers. Mother has such a long, long way to go yet. And her outcome remains precarious. But she may actually be heading home in a few days!

Eydie, Jeff and Dad are all exhausted. Please continue to pray! So much has yet to be accomplished!

I will check back in tomorrow, with updates on my diet, and my crafting!!!

Traveling Through Tuesday...

2012-01-25T01:00:00.000-08:00

Ever since I got sick on Christmas Day, I have been sleeping in, and then staying up late at night. I've got to get off of that roller coaster ride and start going to bed on time to get up at a decent hour!

I got up this morning at 11 a.m.! Ugh!!! This causes me to wake up starved to death! [Think about it, you eat dinner about 6 pm, and then sleep till 11 am and you've gone 17 hours since you last ate!] Ugh!

So, when I got up this morning, I grabbed two left over Cowboy Biscuits from the other day...

I didn't grab a pic, but found this great one via here.

It was pretty yummy with a cup of steamy coffee and milk.

Lunch time, and Texican made us both a ...

...potted meat sandwich.

I was satisfied till dinner time, when I came up with...

Campbell's Bean with Bacon Soup and...

...grilled cheese sammy's. Yum yum!

So... how did I do for the day?

Calories Consumed: 1,315 [-125]

So, I am under, but not by alot for the day. Still, I won't complain.

I haven't got any more completed on the table runner I am making, but I am hoping to get some done tomorrow after I get home. We are getting to go visit my Mom tomorrow! She has been moved out of ICU, and if all goes well, she should be coming home in a few days! Hurray!!!

So, I apologize for this short post, and trust you will forgive me, as I am super excited to go see my Mom! Yes, I know... I'm 50-something, and you would think I was a mere kid as to how excited I am! But then, I guess I am still a kid when it comes to my Mom! Aren't we all when we come so close to losing the woman who means most to us?

If you still have your Mother, take a minute to call, or go see her if possible. Tell her how much she means to you while you still can!

Monday, Monday

2012-01-24T18:04:00.000-08:00

Well, I am definitely doing better! I had been so sick over the weekend that come Monday, even feeling bad would have felt better than I had felt during the weekend! LOL

I did get back on track with eating.

I had some....

...cinnamon toast with coffee for breakfast. Which didn't come till about 11. Yep, I've been sleeping in really late here lately! Gotta stop doing that!!!

About 2:30, I was hungry again, so Texican decided to make both of us a...

...bologna and cheese sandwich. Hmm...... not very tasty, but it got the tummy filled.

And when dinner rolled around, while I worked on some genealogy, Texican cooked dinner.

...pancakes, which I topped with syrup, and no butter. [A little dark, but they really were quite tasty!]

So, all in all, how did my day stack up?

Calories consumed: 1,213 [-227]

Not too bad!

I've been asked how I manage to keep track of all the calories daily. Well, I use a wonderful web site which not only allows me to track calories, but any other nutrients I choose to track as well [sodium, carbohydrates, cholesterol, etc.]. It is My Fitness Pal It also allows you to track how many calories you burn when exercising. You can also keep track of your weigh-ins. It will let you print out reports for your personal use, or take to your physician if needed.

Best of all? It's free! Now that's the kind of program we can all agree as worth having!

I have got the first couple of rows of the table runner done that I am working on....

...but that's all I've done so far. Got to get busy if I want to get it done and move on to something else!

Good news.... I am getting to head out tomorrow and go see my Mom!!! Yeah!!! She is still in ICU, and has been there since January 2nd. I haven't seen her since before Christmas, as on Christmas Day I got sick, and have been fighting it ever since. But the virus has finally passed enough that I am free to go!!!

Even better news? If Mother continues to improve, she may very well be allowed to go home this coming weekend! Praise God!

Bad news?

Yep, you oughtta know me by now... gotta temper one with the other! This evening, just before dinner, our hotwater heater died. Well, at least the heating element, and/or thermostat did. We always do any repairs ourselves here, even though we are renters. The landlord allows Texican to complete repairs, and then allows us to deduct the cost from our rent. Saving both of us time and headache in the matter [sending him a message concerning the repair needed; him hiring and calling in a repairman; and us without whatever appliance, utility we needed!] So, while I am visiting Mother tomorrow, Texican will be shopping for hotwater heater supplies! So... tonight, I heated water in my hot pot just to wash dishes. I guess I'll do the same thing to bathe out of the bathroom sink later this evening. Ugh!

Do you do your own repairs? Do you have to wait for a repairman to come to your home when something breaks down? Do you rent? Or do you own your home?

Until tomorrow, take care!

Blessings to you all...

Texicanwife

Would Have Thought

2012-01-24T14:15:00.000-08:00

Guest post written by my buddy Hans Hale

Who would have thought I’d get so into cooking. When I was younger I couldn’t even boil a pot of water and now that I’ve got Dish Network at home I’m watching tons and tons of cooking shows all the time. I actually think it’s a great way to learn something new about how to cook different dishes and I’ve learned all kinds of tips and techniques from watching these shows not to mention about tons of food items I had never even heard of before. I love Paula Deen most of all but the news that she’s got Diabetes really did upset me. I want to eat all her dishes and stay healthy so I’m going to have to find a way to eat less of them but still get to enjoy those little indulgences every now and then. Maybe I should think the same thing about Ina Garten and all her ridiculous buttery concoctions…she’s really bad about cooking decadently, too, and I love everything she makes so that’s bad news for me!

A Little Something for Your Day

2012-01-24T13:17:00.001-08:00

Smead Frame View Report Cover - A Review

2012-01-23T11:43:00.000-08:00

Smead Frame View Report Cover with Swing Clip

These report covers are so nice! I love the heft, which puts them far and above the quality of most report covers. They can handle up to 30-pages at a time, which is significant. [I'd like to see them handle a bit more... more this is equivalent to the competition.]

I love the large view frame on the front, which allows visual access to the complete front page for title or graphics.

The swing clip allows for non-complicated page insertion. Love that!

All in all, I find this product quite good for student, business, and professional report presentations, and I highly recommend its use.

I give this ...

...Five Stars and...

...my Thumbs Up!

****DISCLOSURE: This product was provided by Amazon Vine for an independent and non-biased review.

I'm Gonna Live!

2012-01-23T09:39:00.000-08:00

Yep... that's the verdict!!!

I had a simple 24/48 hour bug this weekend, and NOT a setback! I'm gonna live!!!

While I haven't been keeping track of what I have been eating since I got sick, I know it hasn't been a lot. I have been subsisting on mainly Coca-Cola's, which seemed to give me the most relief, ironically.

So, I stepped on the scale this morning, and, drum roll please...

Current Weight: 282.4 pounds
+/-: -10.2

Not too shabby since I started on January 2nd! 10.2 pounds lost in only 21 days. I guess you can tell... I'm dancing on cloud nine right now!

I did manage to sit up long enough yesterday to get some writing done, and I am hoping to get some major research done today.

I started another project, and hope to work on it again this evening...

...as you can see, it's another Hook and Needle Club kit. [I still have one or two more to complete after this one!]

This is a table runner, and, of course, it can be completed by knitting or crocheting. I started out knitting... but found it too confusing and switched to crochet instead. I've only just begun, so it's too soon to say how it is going. I do like the look of the completed project photo, so I'm hoping it turns out well, and I can use the runner in the house.

I am making simple pancakes for dinner this evening. So that allows me to work as much as I want today without worrying over preparations.

What's on your menu for this evening???

Continue Being Sick...

2012-01-22T18:36:00.000-08:00

It seems this illness, whatever it is, continues. Now with vomiting, and diarrhea. Lovely way to spend the weekend! Ugh.

I did manage to get a few little crafts completed while I bundled up and sat in my chair in front of the television this weekend...

...these were some very nasty looking old potholders. I probably should have thrown them out. However, I had this thread left over from my last project, and it was just enough to make these covers for them. Now they are looking fresh and new. It also added extra thickness to them, so they are excellent for use as hot pads on the table now as well!

...here's the back side.

And quite literally... that's all I've managed, besides spending my time at the toilet this weekend. And it continues that way.

I pray your weekend was better!

Until tomorrow!

Another Relapse...

2012-01-20T11:34:00.000-08:00

It's been a rough few days. Fever started up again, and productive cough with stuffy nose and sneezing. Just plain feeling bleh!

I have not recorded my eats for three days. Maybe I can get back in the groove tomorrow. Just keeping warm, and not shivering, is the main thing right now! Lots of fluids!!!

I did manage to finish the ski cap I was knitting.

...You will recall from previous posts that I checked gauge before the project. Matched up exactly. You will also recall, I have fussed and complained ever since starting this thing. [This was a Hook and Needle Club kit.]

I don't know who wrote this pattern, but it is, excuse my "French", a 'piss-poor' pattern! The first is that in using the size needle called for in the pattern, results in a loose knit, which is totally ridiculous for this style of hat. [I was determined when starting out that although it didn't seem quite right, I was going to follow the written pattern. After all, the last kit didn't "seem" right, but turned out quite lovely!] Well, when I got to those lovely little "bobbles"....

..this "tag-like" protrusion is what results when following the written pattern. So... I recalled previous "bobbles" I have knit, and came up with these instead...

...these so much more resemble the photograph of the cap.

Next, after getting the basic cap knit, on straight needles, the pattern requires you to go back to the beginning and rip out the first four rows! Yep... rip them out! Why, oh why, didn't they simply have you start the project at what ended up being the fifth row??? The pattern then tells you to gather that fifth row, and stitch the back of the cap closed. However, you are on straight needles and still have a border to knit around the cap at this point!!!

I gave up at this point and finished the border and edging with circular needles.

I was not happy with the "slouchy" hat look, nor the goofy looking braids...

...but then, that is part of the pattern. Nor, was I content with the loose knit resulting...

...here you can really see how loose it is!

However, after modeling the cap for me, Texican says he may wear it on occasion, especially when wanting to look goofy! LOL

I have to say, with the cost of the kits being so high [over $21 when you add shipping and handling], I am so happy I quit the club last fall! I find the later kits I received to be totally inferior to the earlier ones. The patterns are not correct, and don't appear to have been edited or tested. And I find the yarns way too cheap for the cost of the kits! I hate to say it, as I have been a huge fan of Annie's Attic for years, but it seems that the club kits [at least the Hook and Needle Club] are simply not worth the money, and I highly discourage you from joining.

There are a lot of free patterns available on the various yarn web sites that are far superior to anything offered in these kits! And even if you only use bargain yarns, you can have real treasures! [I have some garments my Grandma Dreher made me when I was a small child, made with Lion Brand and Red Heart Brand yarns, and they were worn by myself, my daughters, and now my granddaughters. And they look just like they did when she crocheted them!]

You don't have to spend a lot to make something quality. But you do need a good pattern!!!

The kit made two projects. However, I was so disappointed with the cap, that I am using the rest of the yarn to "cover" some old potholders....

...I feel certain I'll find more use for these than for the cap!

I have a special macaroni and cheese recipe that I am making for dinner tonight.

What's on your menu for this evening?

And what's on your needles???

And, may I ask, is anything bugging you?

TGI...MONDAY????

2012-01-17T11:55:00.000-08:00

It seemed the weekend simply went by too fast! What makes the difference if it's weekend or not to someone who doesn't work outside of the home is beyond me... but there it is.

While I didn't make any breakfast, I did eat a single left over cowboy biscuit from Sunday morning...

...this and a cup of coffee got me going!

I didn't eat any lunch, knowing full well that dinner would be calorie laden!

I whipped up a batch of my favorite pancake batter and in my favorite cast iron skillet...

...they are a breeze to make!

I had three of these yummy bad boys! And used...

...Country Crock and syrup on them. Yum yum!!!

So what was the result of all these calories for the day???

Calories Consumed: 1,092 [-348]

Not too bad!!!

I did get a bit more done on the winters cap I am making. So... here's your first peak...

...it's the softest feeling stuff! Another Hook and Needle Club kit. At this point, I can't see how it's going to come out exactly as the picture on the pattern, even though I have not wavered a bit in execution. But neither could I the last pattern, so I will reserve judgement until complete. I will say, this can't possibly be a warm cap, as in working it to match the guage, I am obtaining a very loose, almost open knit. Again, let's simply finish the project and wait and see the end results.

What do you think so far?

I did find a vintage pattern yesterday for World War I era gauntlets [what we are calling "wristlets" today]. I hope to make myself a pair soon. My hands and lower arms get so cold. [In attempting to keep heating bills lowered, we keep the thermostat between 68 and70-degrees F. And my poor self is staying cold! Must be geriatric in me coming out!]

And today I purchased two Alan Dart patterns:

Mr. and Mrs. Christmas via here

and...

...Nativity Set via here

I only recently discovered the amazing talent of Alan Dart, and love to visit his website here, for inspiration. I have to tell you that delivery of the download link for pattern purchases is almost instantaneous! Love, Love that before I could get to my email, the download links were already there. And paying via PayPal allows for easy monetary exchange [the price for each was 2.50 UK - which was 3.95 US excellent prices!]

Now I can't wait to finish some of my other projectsto get started with these!!!

I am planning soup and grilled cheese for dinner this evening.

What's on the menu at your house?

Is there something on your knitting needles? Or crochet hook? At your sewing machine?

Since I am thinking geriatric this afternoon, let me share with you a pic I found on Facebook today...

Go ahead... laugh. You know you want to!

Lazy Sunday

2012-01-16T11:38:00.000-08:00

Ahhhh, a wonderful lazy Sunday!

I woke up hungry. And I knew exactly what I wanted.

COWBOY BISCUITS!!!!

Yep, those oohey, gooey biscuits that you don't roll out, and are simply pressed into the cast iron skillet and baked. So terribly high in calories, and everything else. But are unbelievably delicious!!!

I ate two biscuits [at a total of 544 calories BEFORE adding some butter and jelly!]. Definitely not a low-cal breakfast, but perfect for a Sunday morning!!!

Because the cowboy biscuits were so dense in calories, I skipped lunch and waited for dinner, which was equally as dense in calories...

...Kraft Macaroni & Cheese Dinner with Gwaltney Chicken Dogs cut up in it. I had two servings of the mac & cheese and 2 hotdogs. And it was worth it! I'm like a kid here. Enjoying every bite full!

So... how bad was my day???

Calories Consumed: 1,374 [-66]

Whew! Who knew I could eat like this and still stay under my limit! Of course, I don't recommend a diet like I've been eating. But this is what a poor man is limited to these days. We are currently living an entiire month [rent, utilities and groceries] for less than I what we were spending on groceries for a month a year ago. And yes... I don't care who tells you that eating healthy is essential. Our economy has forced us into this. We are eating carbs like crazy. Even though we'd love the fresh stuff, it's simply cheaper this way. You begin to learn what gives you the densest portions, for the least expenditure.

But I am NOT complaining. We are so much better off than a lot of other people. And so, for that I am so thankful!!!

And now... I did weigh myself this morning for my weekly report...

Current Weight: 286.0

+/-: -1.4

Not too bad for this week! I am not complaining!

I did finish the cowl/scarf I was making...

...surprisngly, it came out just as it was supposed to!

I discovered I can even triple the loops if I want, for an even different look...

...not too shabby!!!

I just started on a winter cap, and I'll show you an update on that tomorrow.

As I sit here and write, I have company. My desk sits beside our bed in our bedroom. My office was given over to Texican when he retired. He smokes, and it helps to confine his smoking to mainly that room. For that... I'd gladly take this tiny nook! LOL

And so, I often lay notepads or books over on the bed beside of me while I work. I sometimes have to pull them away from my companion...

...I sometimes wonder if she absorbs the material I've written through osmosis! LOL And yes... there is occasionally a low growl when I must take back a book or tablet! But for the most part, she is a sweet kitty!

What are you working on today?

Do you have a menu ready for dinner this evening? [We are having pancakes!]

***UPDATE ON MOTHER: Mother has a blood fungal infection. Her temp is down a bit. She knew Dad last report. But no one else. She remains in ICU. Please continue to pray!

Saturday... and I'm Still Surviving

2012-01-15T12:48:00.000-08:00

I definitely had a bit of a setback.

Fever. Chills. Productive cough. Nasal drainage. So, I am feeling better about not going to see my Mom on Friday! [My Mother is still in the hospital, and for those who have been praying... please keep doing so. She remans in ICU and is critical. She is on day 14 now.]

But I did wake up this morning feeling a LOT better!. The best I have felt since Christmas Day! Maybe I am going to make it through this after all!

While I didn't eat any breakfast Saturday, Texican and I did eat...

..potted meat sandwiches, on whole wheat bread, with sliced american cheese and a smidgen of Great Value's version of Miracle Whip [it's remarkably similar in flavor! and Texican, who is a true Miracle Whip afficionado, likes it! It helps that a quart jar of the Great Value brand costs less than a pint of Miracle Whip!]

For dinner we ate...

...and yes, we ate TWO of these each! I absolutely love theflavor. And find them comparable in enjoyment in eating to much more expensive brands.

After dinner, while watching television, I made up a hideous concoction, which thankfully I did not photograph, which was a can of potted meat plus 2 tablespoons of the Great Value Salad dressing sandwich spread, which I then proceeded to dip fat free pretzel sticks into and eat! [I sometimes wonder if I have pica, the eating disorder... ha ha.]

So how did I do for the day with calories?

Caloric Intake: 1,310 [-130]

So I am fairly happy with that, and won't complain!

After dinner, and before television, Texican and I played...

...and I totally skunked him! Of course it helped that I had Park Place and Boardwalk [both with hotels] and Mediterranean and Baltic [both wth hotels]. Ultimately, it was Park Place and a hotel which was his undoing! Yeah!!! [I love getting a whole corner purchased and putting hotes on the properties!]

Do you and your family play games? We play Monopoly, Farkle, Yahtzee, Scrabble, Rummy, and Domnoes.

As we sat at the table, we had a little companion, who thought we should be eating, rather than playing a game!

This is Fred, who has been a guest on this blog before. Fred is an indoor cat. But this morning, as she sat at her favorite window, staring out-of-doors, a stray cat happened to come up onto our porch, and confront Fred through the window! This huge white, long-haired cat was attacking the window! Well, naturally, Fred reciprocated. The hissing and slapping at the window was hilarious! The deep cat growling went on for the longest time, even once Texican shooed the stray away from the porch. [I'm still laughing over it. And Fred is still guarding the window most solemnly! LOL]

While I didn't feel at all well the past two days, I did occasionally pick up my knitting needles. I've got all except the last 4 rows of ribbing completed on the scarf/ cowl I am making...

...I will be glad to have this project completed... I really don't like it at all.

It as a purchased kit, and glad I no longer purchase these! The last few I made, I found the materials quite inferior. Still, I will wear it. It should look okay against something dark, say a black or brown sweater.

What are you doing today?

Will you be knitting or crocheting?

What's on your menu for dinner this evening?

Thursday

2012-01-13T13:17:00.000-08:00

I'm afraid I've had a bit of a set back.

A productive cough, and low grade fever. And generally feeling like I've been run over by a mac truck!

Just plain awful!!!

While I ate no breakfast, I did manage to get a can of soup in at lunch time. Progresso's Light Zesty Santa Fe Style Chicken.

Sorry, no pic.

After dinner, I while watching television I got hungry. Like.... really hungry! I don't have a pic, but I took a couple slices of bread, and buttered those and topped them with some pancake syrup. It was really very good! [I've made brownies for tonight.]

So what was my stats?

Caloric Intake: 1,023 [-417]

So I am well pleased.

We did manage to get this...

...under control!

Four huge garbage bags of clothes and linens left the house this morning with Texichick for our local Thrift Store. Proceeds help out our local needy. My closet has never looked so good!

For dinner I made us all a potato, onion, and cheese omelet...

sorry... I simply didn't get any pics.

I did get a few rows of the cowl I am making done...

...this is a Hook and Needle Club kit that I have had for some time, and am finally getting around to.

I am following this pattern to the letter, simply because that helps me to discover how accurate it is/

First off.... we have 224 stitches on US 10 straight needles, and every other row, when working, you have to add 2 stitches [yo's] per ever 4 stitches. Which means at that point, you have the 224, plus an extra 60 more! This makes the needles bulky and difficult to handle.

The pattern is worked lengthwise, and after completed, you will stitch the short edges together to make the cowl. Why, oh why, didn't the designer just tell you to use a circular needle? And for heaven's sake! The pattern could have come out almost exactly if worked width wise instead of lengthwise!

Here's a closeup...

...the pattern calls this an "Intermediate" for skills required. Not really. It simply calls for yo's and then knitting or purling into them. Nothing fancy about it.

It is knit with their supplied chenille yarn. I have worked with chenille yarn many times, but have never had the fuzzing and shedding problem that I am having with this stuff! By the time I layed this down last night, my dark green shirt looked like I was wearing a fuzzy pink sweater! Not good stuff! I had hoped to be able to use this for a gift. No way. This would be inferior material for a gift. So I guess I'll keep it till it needs to be cleaned.... attempt to clean it and see if it can be saved or not!

This morning I put a pot of pinto beans on for dinner.

What is on your menu for this evening???

Susan Boyle Sings....Who I Was Born To Be

2012-01-13T12:44:00.001-08:00

Wednesday... What a Day!

2012-01-12T07:38:00.000-08:00

Okay, so I think I may have had a bit of a set back. Hacking and coughing. And generally feeling pretty yucky. Not a pretty sight. Guess I won't be going to visit with my Mom after all tomorrow.

There's still no change in Mom. Still nothing by mouth. She did know everyone yesterday, but was not oriented to time or place. I am hoping it was not the calm before the storm!

I did eat a bit better yesterday.

For breakfast I managed to use up a bit of left over pancake mix that I had from the other night and made Texican and I 3 - four inch pancakes each...

...which I put Shedd's Spread Country Crock and pancake syrup on. Yummy!

For lunch, we ate...

...you got it, another potted meat sandwich!!!

When dinner time rolled around, I made...

...venison and asparagus stir fry over rice, and added Kikkonman's Sweet and Sour Sauce over it. Yum Yum!

And later, while we watched Ghost Hunters on the SyFi channel, I got a little hungry and had...

...left over cornbread in milk. Yummy!

So... how did I do???

Caloric Intake: 1,310 [-130]

Not too shabby!!!

You'll notice for some reason, I haven't been the least bit tempted to step on the scale this week. [I say that today, and I tomorrow I may step on it, checking my weight a dozen times! LOL]

I have only done a couple of rows of the chenille scarf that I am working on. Not even enough for another WIP shot, but soon!

Seems this has been the week for things to go wrong here.

First the dryer stopped working. It would run, but not heat up. I cut it on to show Texican what it was doing, and sparks flew from the back of it! Well, come to find out, one of the wires on the receptacle had worked loose. Still, it caused a bit of excitement when the sparks flew!

Then last night when I put the wok on the burner and cranked up the heat.... poof! The electric burner on the stove suddenly burst into flames! I tried simply removing the wok and putting the lid to the wok on top of the burner to smother it out... but it didn't make it airtight, so it continued to burn. Of course, almost immediately, both the smoke detector in the kitchen, and in the living room went off. They were shrieking, while Texican came running. He kind of stepped in. I grabbed the box of salt and tossed it to him. He smothered the flames with the salt. Whew! [Don't say anything, but I think Texichick spilled cooking oil on the stove when she fixed herself some scrambled eggs earlier in the day. Ugh!] Well, I cleaned the stove top up last evening. But Now I've got to open the top of the stove up and get underneath and get it all cleaned up again. [Can you say... 'I hate cleaning the stove!'?]

Yesterday we went off and on all day with our water being cut on, and then off, then on, then off again [probably 20 times or so!] while our water company is putting in new meters in our neighborhood. This meters will enable to city to read our water consumption right from their offices in the City Hall, rather than sending a worker out once a month to read them. A bit of a both right now, but I can see where the work will benefit our town.

Then in the afternoon, Sis calls. 'I've been trying to call you all morning!' Our phone was out and we didn't even notice it. [Neither of us spend any time on the phone, and if we got decent cell phone coverage here, we would simply do away with land lines and use only cell phones.] So Texican calls the phone company on his cell phone. They say it will be fixed by late afternoon Thursday. However, a tech comes by only about an hour later! Good news, it's in your indoor wiring! So, we've been without phone since yesterday. [Texican is out now buying new wire and a jack for the inside.]

And I am STILL not done! I opened the closed door in our bedroom this morning to get clean clothes before going to take my shower. Everything is wet!!!

On one side of our closet is a panel that opens up to the hot water heater [it's a mobile home... not the best set up obviously!]. Seems an element is going out, and the valve is popping off steam since the element left is heating the water almost all the time! Sooooo...

...all of the things from my bedroom closet are now stacked on my bed!

And more!

And even more! [There's some boxes on the floor on the other side of the bed!]

Soooo, I've been wanting to weed through the things I haven't worn in a while, and get rid of those. Guess now's as good a time as any!

Yep.... it's been one of those weeks so far!!!

How's things going your way?

Tuesday ... Another Pretty Good Day!

2012-01-11T11:18:00.000-08:00

Texican and I started our day as we always do. Sitting at the kitchen table and sharing our coffee and tea, with liberal splashes of conversation. You might wonder what we could possible have to converse about since we are with one another 24/7, and have been married almost fourteen years. Well, let's simply say that we not only love one another, we LIKE one another. We are genuinely interested in what each other thinks and does.

Texican and I both love to read. We often share books with one another [he is currently reading one I recently finished, and vice versa!].

He pursues his hobbies, and I mine. And even though our hobbies are not the same, we both are interested in each other's hobbies, simply because [1] they are interesting hobbies, and [2] because they are something we are each passionate about. If you can be interested in something your significant other/ spouse is interested in, well, there's always conversation to abound!

Texican is a great story teller. And, like myself, has lead a pretty eclectic life. Before we met, we both lived entire lifetimes in our jobs and experiences. I often wonder how we managed to cram so much life into such short lives! And because of this, we both can talk for days about our lives. We have both had co-workers on jobs tell us we must be exaggerating as there is no way we could have done everything we say we have done. But it is the truth. And makes for great storytelling! [If you don't want to have a night of non-stop storytelling at a dinner party, don't bring up oil fields, the Army, ex-spouses, Europe, children, airplanes or ultralights, genealogy, knitting, crocheting or sewing with the two of us in attendance!] We tend to manipulate the conversations! lol

We tend to overlook breakfast these days, unless one of the other is especially hungry. So at lunch time, Texican brought me in...

...a potted meat sandwich. I don't know what's gotten into me, but I can't seem to get enough of this stuff lately. [And let's not even discuss what this is made from!] It's simply something that tastes good! [Growing up we ate a lot of this! As well as Vienna Sausages, which are made of similar stuff.]

When dinner time rolled around, I was feeling a bit down. Still haven't been able to get in to see my Mom, and still have a slight cough. [Mother isn't doing well in the hospital, and prognosis is not good.] So, Texican cooked dinner for me. Campbell's Chicken Noodle Soup...

...[has anyone else noticed how much better Campbell soups taste lately???] and...

...a grilled cheese sandwich.

About 10 last evening I got hungry again, and we ate another potted meat sandwich. [Told you... I can't get enough of this!]

So what were my stats for the day?

Caloric Intake: 1,113 [-327]

Pretty darned good!

I managed to finish up another scarf...

...this is made from "ladder yarn" from Annie's Attic, and the pattern is also from Annie's Attic and is called the "Ladder Scarf". It is crocheted with a size I (US) hook. It is approximately 45-inches long including fringes.

Here's a closeup of the detail.

I think the multi-colored bits of ribbon throughout the yarn will look so pretty with a dark sweater or blouse! [Have I mentioned I have fallen into a "scarf-thing" lately? Can't seem to wear them often enough!]

Here you can see even better how simply gorgeous the ladder yarn really is!

Here's a closer look at the fringe. Don't ya love how it sparkles and shines?

I also started on my next project...

...also an Annie's Attic pattern, which is a cowl-scarf. I may make my own "twist" to it, and make it into a moebius. I don't believe it's going to quite make the big cowl pictured in the photograph, however. Even after getting the swatch to match up... it simply doesn't seem to be matching up to the photo so far. However, I could be wrong, and will wait till I finish to reserve judgement! This is being knit from chenille yarn.

Tonight I making stir-fry for dinner. I have one package of venison left which I will cut up into strips for the stir-fry. And I'll add 2 frozen packages of Asparagus Stir Fry Vegetables, along with rice. I will then add Kikomann's Sweet & Sour Sauce. Can't wait?

What projects are you working on today?

What's on your menu for dinner tonight?

Cheryl's Curly Scarf - Free Pattern

2012-01-10T11:12:00.000-08:00

I really like the look of the potato chip scarf, but wanted something that I could say was my own. With my DIL Cheryl's birthday approaching, I decided to come up with a pattern uniquely mine, and make it for her.

I chose a beautiful Baby Jacquard yarn from Bernat for Cheryl's scarf, below. When finished, the scarf reminded me of a lovely Hawaiian lei! I can imagine it being worn well into spring with all manner of outfits!

Here's a closeup of the stitches...

The photograph at the top of the page is the second scarf I made... for my own wardrobe!

Here's the pattern for those who may want to make it:

Experience Level: Beginner

Materials: Fingering yarn, approximately 5-oz., or 500 yards

Crochet Hook size J - US/ 6 - mm

Finished Size: approximately 65-inches long [to shorten, or lengthen, simply adjust initial length of first chain]

Crochet abbreviations: ch = chain

sk = skip

sc = single crochet

dc = double crochet

fo = finish off

ss = slip stitch

Directions: Chain 161, turn.

Row 1: Sk first ch and SC in each ch across, ch 3, turn. [160 sc]

Row 2: DC in first ch, then 2-DC in each ch across, ch-3 and turn. [320-dc]

Row 3: DC in first DC, then 2-DC in each DC across, ch-3, turn. [640-dc]

Row 4: DC in each DC across. FO and weave in end.

[You will now work into the opposite side of the ruffles, from where you first started.]

Turn piece upside down and begin at start of first ch by ss in first ch, then ch-3 and dc in first ch; 2-dc in each ch across, ch-3 and turn. [320]

Row 2: DC in first DC, then 2-DC in each DC across, ch 3 and turn. [640]

Row 3: DC in each DC across. Tie off and weave in ends.

Your scarf is now ready to wear! The softer the yarn the ruffles will tend to lay more flat, the stiffer the yarn, the more they will stand up. I used Bernat Baby Jacquard for the first one I made, Bernat Baby for the last. Both of these are quite soft.

Enjoy your new scarf!

Monday - A Good Start To The Week

2012-01-10T09:18:00.000-08:00

It was a really good day. My pain levels have been manageable here of late, and I am feeling better from the bronchial virus. Still have a slight productive cough, but it IS clearing! I can tell I will survive now... ha ha.

Texican and I began our day as usual, sitting at the table together, sharing morning coffee and tea, and conversation. Just two old farts, who love nothing better than being together! Married 14 years next month, it's still fresh and new to us!

I worked on the computer for a client until well past noon, when I finally broke for a piece of cold cornbread with Polaner Sugar-Free Strawberry Spread on it. [Sorry.... no pic.]

In the afternoon, I broke, and finished up the KAL dishcloth. I pictured it yesterday, but it wasn't clear as it was wet and was blocking. Here is the finished product...

...the 2012 dishcloth! Totally awesome, right?

I finished up the ruffled scarf I was making for myself as well...

Don't ya love it? Very feminine. I can see it worn with dark sweaters or blouses, all the way into spring and maybe beyond! This is crocheted with size J hook from an acrylic blend yarn [sorry it was from my stash and didn't have the label, so unsure of brand, etc.] This is from the same pattern I made as the scarf I posted yesterday. [I'll post the pattern as my next post.]

I am on a scarf kick this year! Of course, I absolutely adore scarves... and wear them every chance I get!

Dinner was a simple affair. Pancakes...

...cooked on a hot cast iron skillet.

I ate four of these, which I buttered with Shedd Spread Country Crock Margarine and...

...two tablespoons of Welch's Natural Concord Grape Jelly. So good!

Looking at my intake for the day, how did I do?

Caloric Intake 1/9/2012: 834 calories

Whoa! Two days in a row I kept my intake extremely low! Not sure why, just what happened.

So, what are Tuesday's plans? More needlework; I'm knitting another scarf... this one a ribbon scarf!

What are you working on today? Is there anything on your needles?

What's on your menu for dinner this evening?

2012-01-09T22:00:00.000-08:00

Lovin' the look of these...

...found here.

Cruising Through Another Day!

2012-01-09T08:12:00.000-08:00

A slow, lazy kind of Sunday. Laying back and watching television. Doing a little crocheting. Reading a good book. All those favorite kinds of things. That was what yesterday was like around here! And we loved it!

I slept until nearly 9:30, which is late for Texican and I. We're usually up much earlier.

Having fixed our coffee and tea, I didn't feel hungry at all. And have decided that I am going to eat only when hungry, and NOT according to a time table!

So... guess what happened. Can you guess?

Yep... I got a wee bit shaky when my blood sugar dropped low. What time was that? How about 5 p.m. when I started cooking dinner!!! Yep... I didn't eat until dinner time!

So I loaded up then. What did I cook for dinner?

Well, Texichick asked me to make her some fried potatoes with onions. And I added a big dish of macaroni and cheese and chicken wieners. I know, really loaded up on the carb's, but I figured with my sugar dropping low, I could probably use it.

And it was so good! My initial instinct was to gorge and go back for seconds. But I waited after I ate this plateful, another 15 minutes, and realized at that point that I felt stuffed! Lesson learned! If you think you want seconds, wait ten or fifteen minutes and see how you feel then. If you're honestly still hungry, then take a second small helping. But if not then pat yourself on the back, and leave that second helping in the serving dish!

About 10, did start to feel a bit hungry. So I ate a piece of left over cornbread from the night before. [Sorry, no pic.] I sprinkled it with a bit of water, and heated for 20 seconds in the microwave. Then I topped it with a bit of Country Crock Margarine Spread.

So... what was my total caloric intake for the day?

Calories: 827

Yes... that's all. While that may seem good as far as calories goes, I know from experience that too few calories is as equally bad as too many!

I did weigh-in this morning. My One Week result on counting calories.

Today's weight: 287.4

+/-: -6.2

Not too shabby for 50-something grandmother!

I finished up our KAL. Here's my dishcloth being blocked...

... and while you can't see it good here, the imprint is "2012".

Love it! [I'll take another pic after it is dry good.]

I started another curly scarf, this one is all in white, and I will add it to my own wardrobe. [I love scarves!]

What are you working on today?

I am cleaning house with my weekly home blessing, and will be dusting away any cobwebs in my kitchen.

I am also doing laundry, an event that happens every day in my house. It keeps it from piling up, even though there are only three of us.

How often do yo do laundry?

Have you planned your dinner for this evening?

We are having pancakes.

****For those who've asked for updates on Mother, there is no change. She continues in ICU and the doctors will not give us a prognosis as her condition remains critical. I am updating daily on FB.

They All Came Down!

2012-01-08T09:10:00.000-08:00

Where Saturday morning stood a Christmas tree, by afternoon...

...stood my favorite easy chair. [You can see my current craft WIP on the table to the right].

And where once hung garland and stockings...

...are my candles and little statuettes. The wine bottle light on the right was made a couple of years ago by me. Love this little light! I've made several and given them as gifts. Everyone loves them!

The lights have been taken down outside. And everything has been packed away until the end of next November. However, since I already have plans for next Christmas' decorations, I did separate the decorations by color, so that next year, I simply had to reach for the correct boxes. [Next year I going for an all blue and white and silver theme. One that is kind of "ice" themed. The majority of the decorations being hand knit or crocheted! And nothing red about!!!] And I have already started my savings for a "real" Christmas tree!!! [I haven't had a real tree since 2004... so it's about time!]

I woke up yesterday to Texican cooking breakfast for us. The aroma was heavenly!

He made...

...scrambled eggs with potato and onion and...

...crescent rolls!

Oh, it was heavenly to have breakfast made for me! It was delicious too!!

For some reason, maybe because it was a LARGE breakfast, neither of us were hungry at lunch time. And so our next meal came at dinner, when we ate...

...pinto beans that I had cooked in the slow cooker with a ham bone left over from the Christmas ham, and a big pan of...

...cornbread, which I had made just prior to having dinner ready.

I ate two servings of each! And it was so delicious!!!! Even Texican ate and ate! Tasted just like when Grandma used to cook it all on a woodstove! Yum!!!

So... what was my intake for the day???

Calorie Consumption: 1,324 [--116]

Woo-hoo!

I did a weight check and it was: 288.6

+/-: -5 lbs.

So, I am not complaining!

I did finish up my DIL's birthday gift:

I love this modified version of the potato chip scarf. This color combo gives it almost an Hawaiian lei look. Perfect for spring!

Here's a closer look...

This scarf was made from Bernat Baby Jacquards in Berries & Cream. This is 90% acrylic and 10% nylon, which makes it super soft, yet durable. It can be machine washed and dried. [I am currently making me one in white, too!]

I finished Day 4 of the KAL I am working with....

...can you tell what it's going to have on it? Shhh.... it's a secret till it's completed!!!

For those who have been kind enough to ask about my Mother.... her condition remains unchanged. She is still in ICU and is considered critical yet. Your prayers are so kindly appreciated.

Today Texichick is off from work, and I have promised to make her a big pan of fried potatoes and onions for dinner!

What's on your menu for this evening???

Thursday Reviewed

2012-01-06T12:17:00.000-08:00

I wish I could say it was a good, productive day... however, I didn't even get out of bed until 11:20a.m.! Seems my internal clock is askew.

I knew I needed to get to the store and get a few groceries, as well as pay a few bills. So, I dressed and Texican and I took off about 12. I didn't event think about something to eat! That is until... just before reaching the checkout line at Walmart, when I began feeling weak and dizzy. I know the symptoms all too well of when my blood sugar drops! [I've been hospitalized twice from a low blood sugar coma... it ain't purdy!]

I grabbed a pack of cheese rolls from the bakery on my way to the checkout lane, and Texican grabbed me a bottle of Coca-Cola. Yep, the sugar from the Coke to bring me right back up, and the carbs from the rolls to sustain it. Sorry, but I had to wolf these down in a hurry, so no pics! I drank a 24-ounce bottle of Coke and ate one and a half cheese rolls.

I did pick up a ball of Peaches & Creme cotton yarn for a KAL [knit-a-long] that I am participating in. It's a mystery dishcloth [don't tell... but I think I've already figured out what the design is, after two days of catching up with it last night, and 19 rows...sh!!!!! It's a secret!] An I picked up a skein of Bernat to make DIL a scarf for her birthday [in one week!!!]. No prob's. Last night I got caught up with the KAL, and half finished DIL's scarf! [It's a potato chip scarf, my first, and I love it. Simple work that I can easily do while watching tv or listening to music.

I made a simple dinner for us.

4 - egg cheddar cheese omelette with..

crescent rolls

So how did I do for the day?

Calories: 1,183

Not too shabby!!!

I'll be taking pics of my projects as I complete them.

I hope to get my Christmas decorations down on Saturday. With this awful bronchial infection that Texican and I have combatted since Christmas Day, I still have everything up! But we'll get it all down Saturday, and have the house snug as a bug once more.

Are all of your Christmas decorations put away?

What projects do you have on your needles right now?

I Want One Of These!

2012-01-06T11:09:00.003-08:00

The A-Z of Me

2012-01-04T13:31:00.000-08:00

I am borrowing this idea from a November post by JustJen. I loved the idea and thought this would be something you might enjoy!

A. Age: I am a very young 52 years old. Well, somedays I feel young. But for the most part, due to health and weight issues, I feel 82!

B. Bed size: Double even though we need a larger one, I can’t part with my beautiful antique spindle post bed!

C. Chore that you hate: Washing silverware! Seems silly I know! I don't mind tidying up, sweeping and mopping, or even scrubbing the toilet! But I absolutely detest washing silverware!

D. Dogs: I have a little rescued Chihuahua, Chica. She is 6 years old now. She is of a particular breed that is grouchy, resigned to no one, and yet can give the best love and kisses ever! And yes, even with all her grouchy ways, I love her tremndously!

E. Essential start to your day: Earl Grey... or coffee!

F. Favorite color: Cobalt Blue

G. Gold or Silver: Silver

I. Instruments you play:Guitar, violin, cello, piano, organ, recorder

J. Job title: Genealogist

K. Kids: 3 boys and 2 girls, all grown.

L. Live: White Sulphur Springs. Most commonly known for the Greenbrier Hotel and Resort, and the underground White House Bunker. Rolling hills surround us on all sides!

M. Meet - 3 people you'd like to meet living or dead: St. Paul, Thomas Jefferson and Abraham Lincoln.

N. Nicknames: Cyndi, Mom, Sis

O. Overnight hospital stays: Five babies [two were twins!], emergency gall bladder surgery [exploded and flooded my abdomen with gangrene], right ankle repair [broke in a fall], multiple stays for sarcoidosis, car accident in 2008 [collapsed lung and multiple fractures]

P. Pet peeves: Cruelty to animals, people who talk on their cell phones in public places or while driving, lack of etiquette both on and off the Internet

Q. Quote from a movie: "You're gonna need a bigger boat" [same as JustJen's!] from Peter Benchley's Jaws.

R. Right or left handed: Right

S. Siblings: 2 brothers and 1 sister

T. Time you wake up: 8-10 a.m., but I'm trying to get up earlier. This bronchial infection has got my days and nights mixed up!

U. Underwear: Of course! I wear thigh cut briefs, thank you very much. Can't think of anything more gauche than going without underwear!

V. View from your window: Mountains [and the trailer next door, in front of, and behind us.]

W. What makes you cry: Cruelty to animals commercials [I have to leave the room when they come on!], so called 'chick-flicks', and Rascal Flatts singing The Broken Road.

X. The X-Files do you believe: I am staying open to the idea and possibility of other life forms and beings. The Scriptures say that God created "the heavens and the earth" [heavens being plural!]. If He could create human, intelligent life on our small insignificant planet, who's to say He didn't elsewhere as well!

Y. Yummy food that you make: Stuffed bell peppers, tamales, chicken and spinach pizza, marinated fruitcake

Z. Zoo animal: Elephants and chimpanzees.

Your turn! Post your own A-Z on your blog and post the link to your post below! We'll be watching for you!

Tuesday Reviewed...

2012-01-04T11:55:00.000-08:00

Another good day. Still battling this awful viral infection. The coughing keeps me up and down all night, which isn't real conducive for sleep! But I think I am getting better. Slowly and surely. [Can you say, 'respiratory treatments every 2 to 4 hours' ?]

I began with a morning weigh-in. I know... one isn't supposed to weigh daily, only weekly. But I am keeping a journal of the ups and downs. So, nonetheless, I will weigh in as I see fit.

Weigh-In: 291.4
+/- Since Last Weigh-In: -2.2
Total : -2.2

Well, I certainly won't complain about that!

Texican began our day with fixing a brunch for the two of us about 11 a.m.

3- Pillsbury Flaky Crescent Rolls

and 2 fried eggs.

I ate the rolls plain with the eggs. It was a great start!

I didn't eat again until dinner at 7 p.m.

I made a big pot of homemade potato soup, and a loaf of homemade bread.

It smelled so good that even the "kiddies" wanted some!

Here Chica is in one of the dining chairs and rests her head on the table, directly across from my chair, in hopes she can give me the 'sad eyes', and I will feed her from the table. [Well, she might have got a piece or two of my bread!]

I sat up until 12 m.n. and finished reading a book. [You can read my review on The Books on My Shelf].

About 10:30 I wanted a snack. So I toasted two pieces of the homemade bread and spread 1/2-teaspoon of real butter on each slice. So good!!!

How did I do?

Total Calories for Day: 1,344

I was under my limit by 96 calories! So, I am not complaining at all!

I have dgd's birthday gifts ready to mail:

Matching slouchy hat and shoulder bag.

These are crocheted with double strands of Red Heart MW in brown and white.

The shoulder bag is lined in gray cotton t-shirt material [recycled from an old tee.]

It features a fold-over flap for closure...

...with a button loop to secure the flap.

A gold-toned button keeps everything tucked in.

The finished bag. The strap is simply the double-strand yarns worked into a single crochet chain and tied to each side of the bag. The bag measures 11" deep by 10" wide, and is worked as two granny squares stitched back to back, so there isn't any width.

I hope she likes this!

On a somber note: on Monday evening, January 2nd, my mother was rushed by ambulance to the hospital. There they determined she needed to be flown to CAMC in Charleston, WV for immediate emergency surgery. Unfortunately, winds were fierce, and there was a blinding snow.

Lucky for us, a family friend is also a thoracic surgeon and came to the rescue. Mother's colon had become inflamed and slipped past her stomach and was pressing so hard against her diaphragm that it was literally collapsing her heart.

After a removal of several feet of colon, placing her on a ventilator, and placement of a colostomy, Mother is being kept sedated and unconscious due to her delicate condition. She is in ICU and her condition remains guarded. Because of the bronchial infections dh and I have, we cannot go anywhere near Mother, or Dad, until we are cleared up. So... I am having to get updates via telephone from my sister daily.

The family is holding up well, and are doing all we can at present. Praying.

"Father, we hold up this precious, precious woman, who is your child. We know that your healing power can release her from any suffering, as well as call her to Your side. We ask Lord that whatever Your decision, you grant her comfort and peace. And we ask that You bring that to all who love her at this time. In Christ's name, Amen."

A New Me....Comin' My Way!

2012-01-03T12:25:00.000-08:00

Okay, so I don't care if what I look like impresses anyone else, except for Texican, and of course, I hope to impress my hubs! But, to the world at large, I hope I impress by what I do, and how I deport myself. I hope that I bring a smile to those who haven't smiled in a long while. I hope I bring comfort to those who need it. Warmth to the cold. And plenty to the needy.

But this year... a new me is a must. I feel my very life draining from me. I feel my energy gone. My breath is forever short. And the pain that wracks my back and hips is unbearable at times! [I have come to rely on OTC meds and alcohol to relieve the pain I feel! A confession I thought I'd never have to make!]

So... this new year, I made, not a resolution to change my ways, but a solemn vow to do so.

And so... this morning I step upon the scale. And I am overwhelmed with shame and guilt. Shame for allowing myself to get in this shape, and guilt for this slow suicide which I have been inflicting upon myself.

293.4 pounds.

As round as I am tall! [Well, not quite, since I stand 5'9-3/4" tall. But, there's no hiding the roly-poly me. [Just look at Sunday's picture, here.]

And so I begin the day with a bowl of nourishing oatmeal...

... and I grab my favorite tea...

...come on! Only the Brits make the Best tea!

This is Earl Grey. I love the light floral tones. And yet it is strong enough that I don't miss that morning coffee when I have it instead!

If you will recall yesterday, I told you that I would be attempting to get slightly underweight [this is gonna take a while!] on the "poor man's diet", which is basically what our grandparents might have done a hundred years or so ago. I will be counting calories, as money dictates that I can't afford the groceries I would like to have! So... utilizing the foods that many individuals in our country are forced to eat daily because of low income... I join the forces of the poor. And I also prove, that in so doing, anyone can lose weight, regardless of their income!

My lunch?

The lowly potted meat. [Please, let's not have any discussions as to what it is made of! Too gross!] Let's just say, I absolutely adore the taste of potted meat. Always have. I even prefer it to goose pate'. [Don't tell... but once I gave a dinner party in Georgia. The canapes didn't arrive from the caterer. So, we took rye crisps, spread a little potted meat, and salmon roe on them, and oila'! No one knew it was simply potted meat! It's been my favorite personal joke for over 25 years!]

I took potted meat, which is only 177 calories for the entire can, and only 33-cents a can!, and used 1/3 of the can, spreading it on a slice of Great Value Whole Wheat bread. I spread a second slice of bread with 1-tablespoon of Great Value Salad Dressing Spread [Walmart's equivalent of Miracle Whip], and I added a single slice of Great Value American Process Cheese. That with a glass of Great Value's Crystal Light alternative, and my lunch came in at a lowly 242 calories. The bread had much more sodium that the potted meat by the way!

When diner time rolled around, I used Great Value Pancake Mix, and had 4 pancakes

with Polaner Strawberry Preserves, and I used real butter sparingly on these.

Talk about yummy!

My only snack came mid-morning when I opted for some pretzel sticks.

So... how did I do for the very first day?

My calorie count came to a whopping...

Calories: 1,382

And I think that's wonderful! My goal is to keep it under 1,440 daily. So I am right on target. Not so little that I feel out of sorts, but right on target! [I am trying to stay between 1,200 and the 1,440.]

I did finish up my dgd's birthday gift yesterday, but didn't get it photographed. I'll have a pic for you tomorrow. Rather proud of it! And I made my brother-in-law and his wife an anniversary card. It will all go in the mail tomorrow. I am now working on my DIL a small gift for her birthday next week.

What's on your needles?

What New Year's Resolutions did you make?

Until tomorrow!

Sunday - In My Rear View

2012-01-02T08:31:00.000-08:00

New Year's Day. I dress and stand in front of the mirror.

I have spent the holidays enjoying whatever I wanted, knowing full well that it was detrimental. Of course, it has been the previous 12-months of neglect that has added the pounds back on. Not just the past month!

However, here I stand, really looking at myself. Knowing that the constant, gripping pain I feel in my joints and back are increased because of carrying this weight.

Knowing that the increased shortness of breath is multiplied because of the weight lying around my chest, my belly, and especially my lungs and heart.

Knowing that the fluid and blood pressure medicine has been increased in the past year twice, because of the added weight.

What is even worse... is knowing all along how to prevent this from happening. Sitting by idly as I allowed myself to become fat again. Really fat. So fat, in fact, that even my "fat clothes" are uncomfortably tight.

It hit me this New Year's Day, like a slap in the face. Nearly throwing me to my knees. Part of me longing to cry out, "Someone help me!", yet knowing all along that only I can help myself. I've done this before. Made this long journey, and it's a trip only you can do. You cannot get someone to do it for you. And while you can get assistance, it's you who has to do the work to reach the goal.

And so, I ate my traditional foods yesterday...

...bagels and cream cheese for brunch, with...

...beautiful, and delicious, mimosa's.

Texichick and I toasted one another..

..wishing one another a Happy New Year.

And Texican joined us...

... I ate two bagels and a single mimosa drink.

Mid-afternoon dinner was traditional elements of pork, cabbage and black-eyed peas...

... in the less traditional form of bratwurst, sauerkraut, black-eyed peas and cranberry jelly. Not pictured, we had homemade fruitcake for dessert.

While I didn't overeat...

...those around me did. To the point that they were falling asleep!

I went to bed about 11p.m.. I slept bloated and stuffed last evening. Still sick with whatever virus Texican and I have had since Christmas Day. But my entire day had been spent in deciding how I could return to my journey to health, on an almost nil budget! [Yep... I'm feeding a family of three on $500 a month!]

Decision?

The old fashioned way. Counting calories, and lots of exercise!

When to start?

I started this morning, January 2nd. The minute I got out of bed, I told myself, this is the "first day of the rest of my life!".

Afraid I won't be getting alot of exercise in until this virus has passed, but I am eating the best way I can, and the best way that I know of. And it will mean a new life for me.

And my goal? I actually want to get a little under weight. For my back; for my fibromyalgia; and for my lungs.

I even have a picture of how I want to look in my mind. And I know I can do it.

One day at a time.

So... come join me on a journey, of eating poor man's food, as we count calories and exercise our way back to health!

Let's be the Best We Can Be in 2012!

An Awesome Great-Grandmother

2011-12-31T05:05:00.000-08:00

Handiwork of Leeds great-grandmother goes global

Lillian Phillips.

By Katie Baldwin
Published on Wednesday 28 December 2011 08:15
**Taken from: Yorkshire Evening Post

The handiwork of a 92-year-old Leeds great-grandmother has gone global.

Just knitting a few scarves wasn’t enough for Lillian Phillips – she decided she wanted to get one of her creations to every country in the world.

Now people in 132 nations on every corner of the planet have received one of her homemade accessories.

In apptrexciation she has has had letters and gifts and she has even had a prayer book from the Dalai Lama’s monastery.

“When I get something in return, I feel good for doing this,” Mrs Phillips said.
“It’s also good for me to knit.”

Mrs Phillips, of Headingley, Leeds, started knitting scarves 20 years ago using a pattern passed on to her by her late sister.

She is now nearly blind and cannot read a conventional pattern so knits all her creations from a memory of the patterns. Lillian is certainly not a slow coach, it only takes her three hours to complete a scarf when she is flat out and the needles are clicking, though she normally takes a bit more time and makes one over two days.

“I had nothing to knit for so I decided I would like to get one of my scarves in every country in the world,” she said.

The sprightly pensioner enlisted the help of family, friends and acquaintances to help.

“When I was in hospital I would ask the doctors and nurses if they were going on holiday.
“Now 132 countries have got one of my scarves. I told people to give the scarf to anyone that they see.”

One of her creations was given by friend who was holidaying in Rome to the daughter of a secretary of a cardinal who attends the Pope.

Another, knitted to match his burgundy robes, found its way to the Dalai Lama after a colleague of her daughter took the scarf to a monastery while on holiday. The Dalai Lama wasn’t there at the time but one of the monks gave her a tiny prayer book in thanks.

Mrs Phillips, a retired manageress at former Leeds department store Hemingways, said she was delighted with it.

But she’s modest about sending her scarves worldwide.

She added: “I don’t think it’s an achievement really but my friends do.”

Now she is using her skills closer to home to raise cash for a Leeds heart charity, collecting over £1,600 for Take Heart by making 145 scarves after she was treated in Leeds General Infirmary for heart problems.

She also thanks nurses and doctors who care for her by giving them scarves too, as well as other patients.

Her scarves are on sale at the Take Heart stall at the Jubilee Wing of LGI every Friday.

***What an inspiration for all of us "youngster" knitters!

Paper Mate - Ink Joy: A Review

2011-12-30T20:12:00.000-08:00

Paper Mate Ink Joy Pens

I have always loved pens. I have such a love for them that I have often kept a journal simply for the sake of holding a nice pen, be it ballpoint or fountain, in my hand and feeling the words flow from the tip.

So, when I received this pack of four pens, I was quite anxious to try something with the delectable name of "Ink Joy"!

And what a joy it is, too! This pack of four pens, three black ink and one red, come with a small dab of wax over the tip, this seals the tip for freshness. No dragging to start use, or blobs of ink balled onto the tip! Simply roll the tip over a scrap of paper to dislodge the wax seal and instantly you have access to the smoothest writing implement around!

This pen works effortlessly with only the slightest touch of pressure. And it works the same way time and time again!

I love that Paper Mate wanted to "bring back the joy to writing", because this pen does just that!

I give the Paper Mate Ink Joy...

...Five Stars and...

...my Thumbs Up!

****DISCLOSURE: This product was provided by Amazon Vine for an independent and non-biased review.

A New Favorite Song!

2011-12-30T19:41:00.000-08:00

I just heard this song by Beyonce', and it is absolutely awesome. I love the lyrics, and hope many others use it as an inspiration to achieve all that they think and believe that they can be!

Back Among the Living!

2011-12-28T15:08:00.000-08:00

Yes, I've been gone quite a while.

Seems that a terrible virus has invaded our house. It hit the worst on Christmas Day. [Imagine cleaning up vomit and poo on Christmas Day! It was not a pretty picture!]

Texican and I have had the worst of it. Texichick says she still feels fine, although we have tried not to get too close to pass it on to her! Still it's hard in a small home. When one gets sick, everyone gets sick! Ugh!!!

I did want to show you some of the things I finished up for Christmas...

Mother's Irish lace scarf, with her initials in the bottom edges...

...one of dg's fingerless mitts....

...two other gd's got these cabled fingerless mitts...

...all of dgd's gifts were given these little crocheted gift bags...

...and yet another gift bag...

all total, I made 16 pairs of various styles of slippers...

...and...

I made a little tiny purse for my two year old dgd...

and added hanging tabs onto kitchen towels for gifts...

We had beautiful decorations this year...

...this was our tree. All in white and silver. Love it!

I managed to get a couple of professional looking Christmas shots...

...oops! Well these babies wouldn't have any posing, professional or otherwise this year! LOL

But here are a couple shots I am proud of...

...these are Fred our rescued cat...

Fred is female despite her masculine name!

All of our packages were wrapped with bargain paper, and used yarn for ribbons, and then I printed out gift tags and cut black backgrounds for these with cardstock, and threaded the tag in front of the cardstock on the yarn and tied it up with a bow, adults got a little extra gift in a sneaky snake keyring, crocheted, on their package front...

There were three of these huge fruitcakes made. One was a requested gift for my ds, one for Christmas Day in our house, and the other will be for New Year's Day. The fruits in these were macerated for nearly 3 months in their own juices, sugar and tequila...

...of course, the baker got a shot or two of this [just for good measure!].

Homemade chocolate fudge, as well as peanut butter fudge was made.

On Christmas morning, there were dozens of presents under the tree for the three of us!

And a surprise was tucked into the tree limbs. On Christmas Eve I'd left my camera on the coffee table, and I told our little Chihuahua, Chica, to "be sure and get a picture of Santa Claus when he comes in tonight!"

Here's what we found!

It appears that he was caught trying to sneak in through our front door. [We have an electric fireplace, so there's no chimney here!] But he looks quite the happy elf to have been caught sneaking in!

And here he is opening his pack to put all those presents out for us! [We must've been good children this year!]

And here he is posing with Chica! [I suppose this means Fred took this picture? Or perhaps Santa had an elf helping him!]

And lastly...

...it must be exhausting work to deliver all those presents in one night, for here Santa has fallen asleep in the chair we put by the fireplace for him! [I noticed that all of the cookies were eaten and the milk drank that we left on the mantel for him, too!]

This was my very first attempt to try to capture that jolly old elf on camera, and I have to say, I'm quite the believer now!!!

We are still recuperating from the bug that has been gripping our bellies, so I'm not sure when my next post will be. Perhaps tomorrow evening!

Until next time, have a safe and joyous season!

For Your Entertainment!

2011-12-23T09:21:00.001-08:00

A Little Christmas Treat!

2011-12-22T13:41:00.000-08:00

Elvis and Martina McBride - singing "Blue Christmas".

A Quick Recipe

2011-12-18T17:23:00.000-08:00

As you can imagine, I am rushed to finish up the last of my Christmas crafts, so I can get them all wrapped and prepare to deliver them on Christmas Eve.

Are you all prepared? Or are you, too, rushing to get ready?

I received a call today asking for my gluten-free peanut butter cookie recipe. This is so simple! You will always remember it... right from the old cranium, and never need to look at a recipe for this!

Use only all natural peanut butter [I purchase one from our local Kroger's]. The only ingredient is peanuts. No added oils or salts. Simply peanuts!

Gluten-Free Peanut Butter Cookies
1-cup all natural peanut butter
1-cup cane sugar [may use sugar alternative such as Truvia or Splenda]
1-egg
1-tsp. vanilla

Preheat oven to 350-degrees farenheit.

Put all ingredients in a medium mixing bowl and blend until smooth. The all-natural peanut butter is thick and takes a little time to make smooth, but just be patient and continue to blend until smooth.

Drop by teaspoon-full onto ungreased cookie sheet. Dip fork in sweetener [either sugar or Truvia, etc.] and then flatten.

Bake until golden in color and beginning to get dark at the edges. [8-10 minutes.]

Let cool 10-minutes in pan, then transfer to wire baking rack until completely cooled before storing.

Everyone, and I do mean EVERYONE, loves these cookies! They are light and so good with milk, or tea!

Enjoy!!!

A Little Treat For Christmas Eve!

2011-12-16T09:35:00.000-08:00

Baked Camembert

Magic Circle - Crochet How To

2011-12-14T12:43:00.000-08:00

Have you been seeing a lot of reference to "magic circle" in the latest crochet patterns?

I found the best tutorial for it today!

Continuing The Work...

2011-12-14T10:32:00.000-08:00

Tuesday was a rather slow day. I awoke late and didn't get a lot done.

I practiced getting a few sepia shots of my only photogenic pet, Fred.

Isn't she scrumptious?

She lets me pose her, and then she sits the way I place her until after the flash goes off!

Don't ya love these shots?

And I love this one. She's peering over the edge of the kitchen table at me.

I did manage to finish two more pairs of slippers...

... a pair for one of my sons in Christmas green and red, and....

...a pair for a young lady in Christmas red and white.

I did try to get a good photo op with my doggie, Chica...

...and this is the only good one I would be willing to show. [Chica's eyes always flash, whereas the cat's do not!]

And what did I wear?

White screen-print tee shirt [Vista Print]

white long sleeve crew neck tee [Walmart]

khaki jeans [Woman Within]

Last night I made a really fast meal.

...mac and cheese with sliced wieners.

Yum!

Today I am writing and making more slippers!

What are you doing today?

Mom and Me

2011-12-13T12:59:00.000-08:00

Thanks to Lemuel Craft

Mom and I decided to start an online businesswhich has been really great for our relationship. We’ve had a bit of a hard time dealing with each other these last few years but you know, I think we’re on the right track to making something special here. We sell our homemade quilts to people all over the country and it’s been going better than I think either of us thought it would. We’ve got Hughes Net at my house and our own little Etsy shop and you know, I just think this kind of life is perfect for both of us. I get to stay home with my kids and my mom gets to get out of the house and make some extra money for she and dad. I think it’s been good for us to deal with each other in a professional manner because it’s forced us to be more polite and open than we’ve probably been at other times. I wish we’d done this years ago to improve our relationship!

Sunday In My Rearview...

2011-12-12T09:50:00.000-08:00

Ahhhh, another slow lazy Sunday!

NOT!!!

I am on a fast moving train with a strict time schedule; Christmas!

I finished another pair of slippers...

...this pair is made entirely of Granny Squares. These are for one of my daughters.

This pair...

...is made for daughter's partner, Cheryl. Aren't they cute?

And for their apartment....

...a hangng kitchen towel for the holidays!

Because I am so busy here lately, I put on a pot of venison stew for dinner.

And I made a skillet of cowboy biscuits! yum! Perfect for a cold evening!

All the while I was working, my faithful companion kept a close eye on me...

...and isn't she adorable? Can you see that one eye is barely slipped open, so she can watch me carefully! LOL

And I am back at work this morning. More crafting to get done before the holiday arrives!

What are you busy doing today???

Saturday Reviewed...

2011-12-11T11:41:00.000-08:00

It was a rather lazy day here in the mountains of West Virginia. Cold, but clear.

Texican, knowing that I am working as fast as my fingers and hands can go, made dinner for us last evening. He made...

...delicious pancakes! So good... and especially since I didn't cook them! LOL

Dear Sis sent me over a whole carload of goodies! Lots of blankets, curtains and table cloths!

Just take a look at the pretty new comforter and pillows she sent...

...the comforter is super thick and warm! It has these cool green bamboo plants all over it. And the pillows have palm trees on them. [The dark pillow in the center is one I've had for several years now. It has the Madonna and Christ-child on it. The Madonna is a big theme in my bedroom. Like Diane Lane in Under the Tuscan Sun, I look on Mother Mary more as Aunt Mary. My confidante and friend. And although I am not Catholic, I find myself conversing with her on just about anything that bothers me. And I feel quite close to her.]

I did finish two of the gift-bags for the granddaughters wristwarmers...

...aren't they delectable? And the girls can us them as little purses once they open their gifts!

And, of course, my outfit...

..both tops are Goodwill {$3 each], the slacks are khaki and from Woman Within [$17]. The two pair of earrings are from Walmart [$3].

I did manage to get a little writing done as well, but not alot. As well as nearly completing another Christmas gift. A hanging dish towel.

What are you busy with these days???

See you again tomorrow!

Friday In My Rear View...

2011-12-10T09:20:00.000-08:00

I had a wonderful day! Something I don't get very often any more. [I have a lot of back pain.]

First... I completed my second pair of fingerless wrist warmers for my granddaughters...

These are cabled, and are made in Bernat Baby Sport with US 3 dpns. Love how cute they are!

Then I have one of the three bags needed for these wrist warmers made...

Aren't these cute? Sinfully easy to make [just make two 8" x 8" Granny Squares; place them back to back; dc three sides closed; add two simple chains for the closure loops, threaded through the top dc openings in opposite directions. Knot the ends.] And it's complete! You can make the Granny Squares as simple, or as elaborate as you like.

As always, my youngest children were nearby as I worked...

Aren't they cute babies?

We had a simple supper last night. Mama Betty's Sh*t Supper. [I've blogged about this before!] It's basically beefaroni. Seems Mama Betty made this dish one evening for Pop Custer. She asked him how he liked it. His response? "It looks like sh*t!" [He was only teasing her.] But the name stuck! And we usually have it in our home two or three times a month. Each time, I can't help but remember my MIL. She passed away in July of 2003, just 5 years after Texican and I were married. So, although it's a relatively simple dish, I hope I honor her in making it.

We also had a loaf of homemade white bread that I made fresh yesterday.

While the bread was baking, I heard a knock at the door and was surprised to find my dear sister, Eydie and my BIL, Ron, standing at the threshold! [We so seldom get visitors!] I absolutely loved it!!! Both of them work, so we don't get to see them often!

[I'm hoping after the holidays that we can get together a couple of nights a month, and do something as couples. Even if it's simply watching a movie, or playing cards! [I miss spending time with my sister!!!]

As for what I am wearing today?

Khaki trousers - Woman Within

Black mock turtle neck - no tag from Goodwill

Red country print t-shirt - no tag from Goodwill

Both pairs of silver colored earring hoops - Walmart.

Total cost of outfit:$30

[I love a bargain!]

Today I am writing, and making gift bags.

What are you doing today????

Another Good Day!

2011-12-09T11:44:00.000-08:00

Thursday was a good day! I got a lot of things done that I had hoped to.

The first was the completion of one set of wristwarmers for my granddaughters...

These adorable cable-knit wristwarmers are so cute!

They areknit in Bernat Baby Sport yarn on US Size 3dpns. The pattern is from ArtYarns.

Love how they turned out!

Texican and I had pinto beans and brown rice with cornbread for dinner. All homemade of course!

And now I am almost complete with the last set of wristers, and will be working my on to other Christmas gifts!!!

What are you busy with these days?

Three Days Later!

2011-12-08T10:09:00.000-08:00

Okay, so I don't bounce back from a fall or accident like I used to! I have spent the last 11 days just trying to get over a fall I had in the kitchen! [Texican said I went over like a felled tree - "timberrrrrrr!". It was not a pretty sight!]

But I am slowly recovering. The key word being "slowly"!

So, what have I been doing to stay busy while lying about recovering? Crafting for Christmas!

You will recall three days ago that I had completed a pair of slippers for ds for Christmas. I hve now finished one-half of the remaining cable-knit wristwarmers that I am making for the other two granddaughters...

These are the two right hand wristwarmers, and I am about to complete the first of the left hand wristwarmers, and should complete the other left hand by tomorrow. [The pattern I used was faulty and I had to fix it in my own way! But I am thrilled with the results!]

I also made a bow for the wreath I made from a garland my sister gave me four years ago. [It's been in my bathroom on the wall till now; sans a bow.]

Just a simple something for the door. But I am rather proud of how the bow turned out!

Simple to make: Red Heart yarn [size 4] and a US G hook. Ch 250 and turn.

Row 2: SS next 2, hdc next 2, dc 242, hdc 2, ss 2; turn.

Row 3: SS 2, 2 hdc, dc 238, hdc 2, ss 2; turn.

Row 4: ss 2, hdc 2, dc 234, 2 hdc, 2 ss.

Bind off.

Second piece: Ch 15 and turn.

SC across and turn for 8 rows.

Bind off.

To find center of bow, fold first piece in half, then lay long ends over this to form a partial bow. Hold in place, and put smaller piece around this and stitch in place with a darning needle.

Make sure to crimp bow for detail. [See photo above for detail.]

This takes about 30-minutes to make. And I love it much more than a purchased bow!

Now, to show you what I am wearing...

Nike sweatpants, a Goodwill purchased pullover, and a Crest uniforms top. Can you say "Comfort?"

Last night I felt so bad. So, Texichick fried up a big platter of...

...chicken gizzards and livers. Here she dips them in egg and then rolls them in flour before frying.Texican then made a pan of cowboy biscuits and a skillet of gravy made from the pan drippings.

It was the best meal I'd eaten in ages!!! Yummy!

Today I am planning brown beans and cornbread for dinner.

The beans are cooking in my slow cooker with pork neck bones for added flavoring.

What are you planning for dinner this evening?

Send Some CHEER!

2011-12-05T07:23:00.001-08:00

When our troops are called to serve, their families must rise to meet the challenges of service as well. To thank them, Cheerios and the USO have partnered in a postcard campaign that spreads Cheer directly to these honorable military families and supports USO programs. Here´s how it works:

During the 2011 holiday season, specially-marked boxes of Cheerios cereal will feature Cheer postcards on the front of the box. Consumers can simply cut out the postcard from the Cheerios logo, write a message of thanks on the back, add a stamp and mail the pre-addressed card to the USO. The USO will deliver the Cheer card to military families across the country.
For each postcard received through November 2012, Cheerios will make a $1 donation to the USO to help fund programs that support military families.
To kick off the campaign, Cheerios has already donated $150,000 to the USO and will donate up to an additional $100,000 based upon the number of postcards received from specially marked boxes now through November 30^th, 2012.

Sending a "Cheer" postcard is a simple way to say thanks and lift the spirits of our country´s military families.

Epson VS Series VS210 3LCD Business Projector - A Review

2011-12-04T13:18:00.000-08:00

Epson VS Series VS210 3LCD Business Projector

This little projector will do some mighty BIG things!

Upon receiving this bad boy several days ago, I have hooked it up to my computer, my laptop, and even my television!

Simple and easy self-installing software makes installation hardware a breeze! Simply plug and use!

The component comes with a VGA cable, but can also be hooked up with a simple USB cable.

A small dial above the lens allows for quick and easy focus. A one button leveling system allows you to effortlessly raise, or lower, the projector for optimum viewing. A remote control allows for use from across the conference room. A single button pointer allows you to deftly point at items you want to make clear.

This is the Amazon web page for the Epson, shown on my bedroom wall!

With AV cables you can hook up to your television and watch television or movies on the big screen! A built in speaker system gives plenty of audio for the conference room, or your den.

I will be utilizing this for genealogy conferences locally, as well as when giving reports to clients. And what a treat it will be at our next family reunion to be able to show photos on a screen where everyone can view them!

I give the Epson VS Series VS210 3LCD Business Projector ...

...Five Stars and...

...my Thumbs Up Award!

****DISCLOSURE: This product was provided by Amazon Vine in exchange for an independent, non-biased review.

Saturday Reviewed...

2011-12-04T11:19:00.000-08:00

Well, I wish I could say that the day was more productive than it was, but I can't.

First off, I awoke early [too early!] with a migraine headache. [I think it stems from a sinus problem... out comes the netti pot!]

About 6 cups of strong coffee later, and the caffeine has helped me rid the migraine, but left me nauseated! Ugh.

After a quick bed making [I literally simply pulled the covers to the top of the bed, threw on the pillows and called it made!], I got dressed...

That's the t-shirt I had made for myself and Texichick to help inspire us to work out and lose weight [unfortunately neither of us has done that! Ugh!]

Beneath it is that same Pensacola souvenir t-shirt that I wore on Friday [hey, it was still clean!], and the Nike flannel lined sweat pants. Warm!!!

I worked on the fingerless mitts I had started for another granddaughter, for most of the day. Then in the last afternoon, Texican and I decided to begin decorating for Christmas.

Here's my fireplace mantel [it's an electric fireplace].

That's an angel candelabra in the middle of the mantle.

Here's a closeup of the garland and mini stockings going along the edge of the mantle.

Here's our "Santa" chair beside the mantle, for those little fireside chats with the Big Man. [See the elf hat hanging from the top of the chair?]

And here's a shot with a good flash so you can see it better...

...there's a red throw and pillow to help make Santa a bit more comfy!

A damask napkin and two tea light holders sit atop the television [yes... that's our television, it's old, but it works well and we're content with it!]

This narrow curio cabinet sits next to the front door and has a small collection of Christmas bells in it.

[The blue bell on the second shelf I bought over 30-years ago in Germany. It is a music box and plays "Winter Wonderland".]

My 2010 Christmas teddy and a comfy blanket sit on the back of this chair.

This screen from the Philippines is also decorated.

A snowflake plate and rustic tin Christmas card caddy hang near the left.

A snowflake plate in the center.

Another snowflake plate and three more mini-stockings on the right.

On another end table I have singing Rudolph and Frosty the Snowman, along with a Christmas M&M.

On the bookcase I placed damask napkins and a wire sculpture angel, a snowman candle caddy, an open scented candle and three rather slender toy soldier nutcrackers.

And, of course, this wouldn't be complete without the star of the decorations!

Our Christmas tree! It's all in silver. The "skirt" is actually four gilded thread placemats!

I love it!!!

Not pictured are a wall hanging on my bathroom door of Santa and stockings in my laundry room.

Yes! It's truly beginning to look a lot like Christmas!!!

Before I go, let me share this adorable poster with you!

Suave Professionals Keratin Infusion 30-Day Smoothing Kit: A Review

2011-12-04T09:17:00.000-08:00

Suave Professionals Keratin Infusion 30 - Day Smoothing Kit

This three-step program is designed to bring life, richness, and health to dead, dry and frizzed hair.

Having received the program for review I was anxious to give it a try. I have decidedly early-gray hair and it has lost some of the oils essential to healthy looking hair. [Just because I let my hair go gray, does NOT mean I don't care about it!] So I was anxious to give this a try.

After only one treatment my frayed and split ends are no longer fuzzy! This brings a wonderful smoothness to my look. It also added a beautiful sheen, which I am so proud of! And there's a new springiness; a bounce!

When your hair looks good... you definitely feel good!

I highly recommend this treatment for women of all ages!

The treatment does come with this warning:

"WARNING - This product is not advisable for: Permed or chemically straightened hair. Hair that has been colored in the past week. Bleached, highlighted, double-processed or extreme shades of red-dyed hair. Dry, brittle or damaged hair. Chemically relaxed hair. "

I give Suave Professionals Keratin Infusions 30-Day Smoothing Kit ...

...Five Stars and...

...my Thumbs Up Award!

****DISCLOSURE: This product was provided by Amazon Vine in exchange for an independent and non-biased review.

Friday Reviewed

2011-12-03T10:27:00.000-08:00

A productive day, although I did not get my holiday decorations up, as I had hoped to do. So, I will attempt to tackle that job later today!

I did eat a healthy breakfast...

...organic tea, yogurt and a banana.

I was joined by my feline baby....

Texican kept her supplied in treats so that I could finish breakfast without being interrupted!

I also managed to complete a pair of slippers for my son who lives in Las Vegas...

These easy to crochet slippers were modified from a pattern I found on the Internet. They are basically a crocheted rectangle, then gathered and seamed.

[Thanks Texichick for modelling!]

Simply chain a length equal to the length of the persons foot. I used two strands of yarn to give it more stability and added wear for the sole.

Then work in double crochet stitch for the width. Next gather one end for the toe. Then seam the back of the heel.

Then I crocheted at the top for a wide cuff, giving it more of a moccasin look.

This fits a man's size 12. I used a Promo sports yarn in 100 percent polyester and size US H hook.

I hope he likes it!

Keeping with the theme "What Did I Wear Today?", here is what I wore on Friday...

...Yes, this is an old scrub top. Way too big, but oh so comfortable! Underneath is a souvenir long-sleeved Pensacola, Florida tee. With a pair of Nike flannel lined sweat pants [can you say 'warm'?]

Texican cooked dinner for us last night, grilled cheese sandwiches, and I didn't get a pic.

But after dinner, he did make us these great giant-sized banana-oatmeal-raisin cookies!

OMG were they delicious!!!

Afterwards, he was plum tuckered out!

Isn't he so cute like that?

It was fairly early to bed, but not before we watched another Christmas movie, Jim Carey in How The Grinch Stole Christmas.

Who else but Carey could bring the Grinch to life?

I absolutely love it! And all of the adorable 'Who's' down in 'Whoville'!

Let's face it, we need more writers with the sweet imagination of Dr. Seuss!!!

Now I will go, but not before I leave you with this...

ALWAYS read the instructions!!!

Jingle Bells - Like You've Never Seen Before!

2011-12-03T09:51:00.000-08:00

Gotta love this Brooks Brothers commercial!

Primula Double Wall Glass Mug - A Review

2011-12-02T13:31:00.000-08:00

I was quite anxious for this little product to arrive! I am an avid tea drinker, so was anxious to give this bad boy a try!

The Primula Double Wall Glass Mug with Tea Bag Buddy

This mug is aesthetically pleasing to the eye and will go along with any kitchen or dining decor.

I found it great that with the double wall insulation I could sip the tea without the mug actually burning my lips as most glass or ceramic mugs are wont to do! The outside also stays cool enough to handle even without using the delightfully curved handle.

The added silicone topper is supposed to make squeezing the tea bag easier. There is even a notch in the cover to allow you to steep your tea without the string and tag falling into the hot liquid. I found that slit was a welcome plus.

But when it came to squeezing the tea bag, I found the whole thing clumsy and awkward, as well as HOT!

[Give me my old Tupperware tea bag squeezer any day!

... it's over 25-years old and works as good as it did when it was brand new! And it doesn't get too hot to handle!]

All in all, I give the actual mug...

...Five Stars, and...

...my Thumbs Up award!

***DISCLOSURE: This product was provided through the Amazon Vine program in exchange for an independent and non-biased review.

Another Good Day!

2011-12-02T13:19:00.000-08:00

Thursday was a good day!

I've been asked what it is that I wear when I am home all the time, and seldom actually go out [maybe once or twice a week at best!]. So, starting today I will try to document the clothes I wear.

Thursday I wore...

The kahki jeans are from Woman Within which is my favorite shop for larger sized clothing.

The hooded sweater has no tags, and was found at the Goodwill in Covington, Virginia for a great buy at $3.25.

The earrings are from Walmart.

The entire outfit is warm and comfortable for a lazy day at home!

I nibbled basically for breakfast and lunch. But for dinner I made a loaf of white bread in the breadmaker, and started at pot of potato soup at the same time the bread went into the machine.

This yummy goodness had about 10-medium russett potatoes - diced, 1 large yellow onion - diced, 3 large stalks of celery - diced and about 15 button mushrooms - diced. Salt and pepper to taste. 2-cups water. And 4-cups whole milk.

Boil potatoes, onion, celery and mushroom in water until potatoes are fork tender. Salt and pepper to taste. Add milk. Bring to soft boil. Lower heat to simmer. Cover and let simmer for 2 hours.

Yummy!!!!

After dinner, I realized that in 8-hours of knitting, I had only half of one sock finished. It was time to change strategies. I searched last night, and again today, and finally found a quick crochet slipper that I hope to have done sometime tomorrow. [Watch for the reveal!]

Last night while watching television I had this companion...

Do your pets watch television with you?

Are you watching all of the holiday shows on television yet?

As I write this, we are watching Tim Allen in the very first Santa Clause movie. Watching all three of these movies has become a tradition in our household!

Tomorrow I hope to set up my Christmas decorations.

When do you decorate?

Until then, let me leave you with this...

Updates...

2011-12-01T11:45:00.000-08:00

It seems I may have bitten off more than I could chew [as my old Granny used to say!].

It takes me hours to sift through emails and read those "required" blogs, and even longer for the "obligatory"! Then to answer emails, and write for the day... an I am not finding myself with an extra minute when needed, much less time to dedicate to this blog! But I am going to do some scaling down with other things, and get back to the heart of my blogging here!

I was woke this morning with the wonderful aroma of baking biscuits! I ate before grabbing my camera! But here's a pic of the left overs!

Mixed on newspaper and plopped into a cast iron skillet and baked as a whole, these "cowboy biscuits" are simply to die for!

We buttered them up and slathered on apple butter!

Absolutely the best biscuits ever!!! [Thanks honey!]

I finished the lacey wristers for one of granddaughters for Christmas!

Knit with Bernat Baby Sport yarn on size 3 DPNs, these turned out beautifully!

Thanks Texichick for modeling these!

It took me a while to get these going, but once I did, it took about 2 evenings of tv watching t finish them up. Aren't they lovely??? [Tootin' my own horn here! HA HA]

And here's my next project already started...

...a par of heavy hunting socks for one of my sons. Love this rib pattern at the top of the sock!

I hope to get enough done on these today that I can take a break tomorrow and clean really well and set up my Christmas decorations! Can't wait!!! Then an evening with some eggnog and cranberry scones!

Have you set up your Christmas tree yet?

When do you usually take your Christmas decorations down after the holidays? [I usually wait until January 2nd!]

Have a wonderful afternoon!

I have a pot of potato soup going and a loaf of bead in the bread maker!

What's for dinner at your house???

Yes... I Am Back!

2011-11-26T13:15:00.000-08:00

I haven't wandered too far away! Simply been enjoying this brief fall holiday!

Three days of cooking, and the meal was over in an hour! But what fun we had!

Here's a little overview of the table.

I placed an antique tea cloth over the Thanksgiving tablecloth. Then used my wild rose china and our crystal. [The tea cloth has matching napkins which we used in handmade napkin holders - simply paper towel tubing cut into rings and yarn crocheted around them!]

A close up of our place settings.

Our youngest babies [above and below] were eagerly anticipating the goodies!

That's Fred under the table.

And Chica next to the dining table in an arm chair.

While I might look disgusted, the turkey really did turn out lovely! It was a beautiful 13-pound hen turkey.

"And when can I dig in, Mum?"

Beverages are poured, tea lights lit, and hot buttery rolls on the table.

Plates are made at the buffet, everyone seated and Texichick and I toast one another for a successful preparation after we say grace.

The Menu:

Roast turkey

Green beans

Cornbread Stuffing

Gravy

Sweet Potato Casserole

Cranberry Sauce [jellied]

Cranberry Sauce [whole berry]

Yeast rolls

Fruit Cake

Pumpkin Pie

Oatmeal/Walnut Pie

Hand Whipped Whipped Cream

Sound good? What if I told you everything, yes everything!, was made from scratch? Nothing boxed or prepared!

Now you understand why it took three days to prepare!

Oh, but it was so worth the effort!!!

[Texican is still bragging over it!]

I hope your Thanksgiving was just as nice as ours was!

Last evening I finished the Christmas scarf/shawl I was making for my Mother.

Using a size 1.0mm crochet hook, and Coats #30 crochet cotton in Liberty Red, I adapted an Irish Rose filet for a doily, added mesh, and a monogram on each end.

The scarf measures 72" long by 14" wide. It can be worn any season as either a scarf, or light shawl.

Here the scarf is folded in half, with one half bunched running along the left side of the photo.

A closer view of the Irish Rose pattern.

A close up of the monogram: small L [Lois], large B [surname Beane], small V [middle name Velleda].

There is about 80 hours of labor in this scarf [I am slow working in filet crochet], and due to the fine thread and tiny hook, I was exceptionally slow! But it is definitely worth the labor intensity to see something this fine from my own hook! So, I am rather proud of this! [Now I hope Mother is!!!]

I am now working on one of my granddaughters gifts. A lovely pair of lace mitts. She lives in Las Vegas, and doesn't have need for anything for cold weather, so thought these would be cute. I'll show pics as I progress.

Tonight, Texican and I are eating leftovers for dinner. Simply picking at whatever we want.

Are you still eating leftovers?

Are you hand making anything for Christmas gifts this year? If so what?

Be sure to share your projects with us! We'd love to know what's on your needles!

Wishing You A...

2011-11-24T01:00:00.000-08:00

How To Get Women To Exercise!

2011-11-20T10:35:00.001-08:00

Vickie Howell Urges You Not To Text and Drive!

2011-11-17T15:22:00.000-08:00

This gave me chills when I read it on Vickie's facebook post today!

"

Vickie Howell
A friendly reminder to not text, or otherwise distract yourself while driving. I was hit by a car yesterday--the driver never even looked up as he went through a cross walk against a light. I was able to push my daughter's stroller out of the way, but he got me straight-on. Miraculously, I'm ok--nothing broken or bleeding. Just very sore. It could've been so much worse. I'm so grateful. Please, reach out to the people you know to remind them that there's no text important enough --no music that needs to be changed or e-mail that needs to be checked badly enough-- that it can't wait until you're pulled over to the side of a road. Be safe, friends! xo"

Getting The Goods For Thanksgiving...

2011-11-17T14:03:00.000-08:00

Texican and I ran to our local Walmart this morning and stocked up on everything we would need for Thanksgiving dinner next Thursday!

Why Walmart? Because they really do match ad prices! That's right! Why should I run to all of the different stores to get their bargains when I can simply take the ads in with e and present them with the grocery item, and get the sale price all in one store location? I shouldn't!

My Honeysuckle White turkey...

...which Walmart was selling for 79-cents a pound, I got for only 59-cents a pound because another local store had it for that! So, my 13-pound turkey went from over $12,to just a little over $7!

My sweet potatoes were sold at Walmart for 38-cents a pound...

...I got for 3-pounds for $1 because another store had them for that!

My 18-count carton of eggs? Normally sold for $2.19, I got it for $1.99.

And 10-pounds of white potatoes? Instead of $4.97, was only 99-cents!!!

All in all, our Thanksgiving dinner [which will feed four of us with HUGE amouts] cost us only $31.

So... what's the menu? [By the way... EVERYTHING is homemade! Nothing canned or frozen or instant here!]

Roast turkey

Baked sweet potatoes, with marshmallow topping

Mashed white potatoes and gravy

Green beans

Cranberry sauce

Yeast rolls

Pumpkin pie

Pilgrims Oatmeal Pie

Fruitcake [yes... homemade and the fruit has been fermenting for weeks!]

Hand whipped whipped cream

Iced Sweet Tea/ plain tea

Coffee

Red and White Wines

I'm thinking about my tablescape now. Hmmm...still haven't figured that one out yet. But I do love some of the themes over at BHG. I'm especially liking this one...

Very informal, yet charming!

As I haven't been keeping up with the 30-Days Hath November challenge, I will try to make a post now...

Day 17: My Family

Well, I am married to Texican, and we have five grown children and a dozen grandchildren.

Our youngest daughter, Texichick resides with us [good thing, too, as it takes all of us working together to make ends meet! A sign of our economic times!]

Texican and I are both retired. He on Social Security, I on nothing, but some back-pay child-support from my ex-husband [long story... let's not go there!].

I still have my parents, the are 73 and 74. And I have a wonderful sister and brother-in-law with whom our parents live. I also have 2 brothers. And an assortment of nieces and nephews. And that's just on MY Side of the family! Texican is the oldest of 7 children! So you can imagine the wide array of nieces and nephews there!

My family is mainly in West Virginia, although I have a daughter in Virginia, and a son in Nevada.

Texican's family are mainly in Texas, although some are scattered about.

Do most of your family members live close by?

How many will be at your Thanksgiving dinner this year?

Are you pepared???

The Photography of Wyman Meinzer

2011-11-14T10:37:00.001-08:00

Wyman Meinzer's West Texas from Wyman Meinzer on Vimeo.

Amazing Grace

2011-11-11T08:24:00.003-08:00

Honoring Our Heroes

2011-11-11T08:01:00.001-08:00

30-Days Hath November - Day 11

2011-11-11T01:00:00.000-08:00

So Fawned challenged us with 30-Days Hath November.

Here is today's:

Day 11: Something I've been craving.

I've been craving scalloped potatoes! So, I think I may actually make some for dinner one night this week!

What have you been craving?

30-Days Hath November - Day 10

2011-11-10T18:22:00.000-08:00

DAY 10: What I Love About My Job

I am a wife, first and foremost, with a sideline of mother to five grown children and their significant others, and grandmother to 12!

My daily work is comprised of genealogical research, knitting, crocheting, reading, housework and cooking.

I love being able to start with nothing, or start with something totally insignificant, and end up with something really special.

With genealogy I start with the barest of information, and end up with a family tree and that family's history!

In knitting and crocheting, I start with a hook or needles and add a medium [yarn, plarn or thread] and end up with an item of fashion or art!

In reading, I start with an unopened book. And I end up slipping away on an adventure without ever stepping out of my home!

In cooking, I start with several ingredients, and end up with a culinary masterpiece [okay, so maybe not a masterpiece, but something good!].

What do you love about your job?

Another Day Missed...Another Day Playing Catch-Up!

2011-11-09T17:53:00.000-08:00

Honestly, I didn't do it on purpose! I totally missed blogging yesterday! But I do have an honorable excuse. Texican and I spent the day visiting with my Mom and Dad. What could be better than that?

My Sis, whom my parents live with [they have a wonderful Mother-in-Law suite at the back of her HUGE house!], just built them a wonderful full-sized kitchen. For the past 16 years they have had a tiny kitchenette. Now, a wall has been taken down, and the porch enclosed to make them a beautiful light and airy full-sized kitchen; complete with range, refrigerator and even a dishwasher! All appliances are in wonderful stainless steel! Mom uses a walker to get about, and now she can actually get into her kitchen without fear of falling! [My sister is the absolute best!]

While we were there, my sister came into my parents site and gave me some wonderful antique pieces to add to my dishware collection:

this beautiful brown transfer platter;

this gorgeous blue serving platter;

wonderful ivy trimmed serving bowl;

loving this wonderful pottery custard dish; and

the bowl of a mortar and pestle [minus the pestle]; there is another lovely rose transfer ware platter [I forgot to photograph it!]; and lastly...

...this fantastic circa 1900 coffee mill, fully functional! [I've always wanted one!]

Yep, I left there with a small fortune! Texican laughed because I hand carried everything and held it on my lap for the ride home. LOL

I also thought you'd like to see the progress on the Irish Rose, Irish Lace Scarf, I'm crocheting in filet crochet for my Mom for Christmas:

Isn't it delectable? It's being crocheted in a #10 crochet cotton thread by Lilly, that way it can be worn year round as an accessory. And it is wide enough, and will be long enough, it can even be worn as a wrap if she wants to. [Can't you see it with a black sleeveless dress for summer?]

Since I missed yesterday's entry for the 30-Days Hath November, a challenge by So Fawned, I will make that entry, as well as today's!

For the 8th: The last item I purchased

The last item I purchased was a bag of fiberfill for stuffing a wall hanging.

For the 9th: A Close up of my day.

Which is entirely why I have waited till evening to make this post, so that I could fill you on my day today!

I first off woke up at 2:00a.m. this morning. Texican was having a rough night coughing. So I got up with him, and never did get back to bed. I crocheted about an hour. And then, because no-one had done up the supper dishes last night [I went to bed sick at my tummy], I scrubbed the dishes and kitchen. Texichick had cooked supper last night. Deep fried homemade chicken nuggets and deep fried potato crisps. [What a nasty, oily mess awaited me!]

After cleaning the kitchen I checked emails and read my daily blogs and magazines. Checked my friends on facebook. Then made the bed; took my morning medicines; ate a little bite of breakfast and got dressed.

After dressing, I worked on some transcriptions I've been typing up. [Still have about 3 more hours to do!]

Texican and I didn't eat lunch until almost 3pm, when I simply made us a peanut butter sandwich. I had put pinto beans and a couple of pork neck bones in the slow cooker this morning. So, supper was going to be an easy affair.

Until dinner, I checked on some work I've been doing online. Then I made a pot of rice, and Texican and I had beans and rice for dinner. So delicious!

After dinner, I washed up the dishes, and then came in my little bedroom office to write this post!

What did you do today?

Were you busy?

Do you ever write in a diary or journal?

Let me leave you with a little thought ...

Come on, laugh. You know you want to!

30-Days Hath November - Day 7

2011-11-07T13:40:00.000-08:00

In keeping with So Fawned's 30-Days Hath November blogging challenge, today is Day 7, and the challenge is:

Day 7: A song for today

My song for the day is the Shirelle's Mama Said.

I don't suppose I need tell you what kind of day it's been here for me!

How's your day going?

30-Days Hath November...Day 6

2011-11-06T09:03:00.000-08:00

Following the 30-Days Hath November challenge, at So Fawned, today's challenge is:

Day 06: A book I am reading.

I am currently reading two books. But let me share this one with you...

While I am no where near ready to give you a report on this book, let me just say... everything looks so yummy!!!

Be watching for my review on this delectable book at my blog The Books On My Shelf.