Robin In Reality

losing it

2011-10-16T17:26:00.002-06:00

the lbs are dropping off (over 40!) confidence is soaring and self esteem is roaring... watch out boys this bird girl is ready to break some hearts ;)

spending my time

2011-10-02T17:03:00.002-06:00

a new friend... good wine (lots)...views over looking the city... music and good conversation...a perfect way to spend a friday night

stealing time

2011-09-22T19:42:00.002-06:00

the days will soon be cold and dreary but for a few brief moments the sun is warm and inviting. so my little boy and i must take advantage of those fading summer evenings and breathe in that fresh air before shutters and shivers of frozen limbs over take us. ahh...enjoy.

worth the wait

2011-09-18T10:53:00.001-06:00

finding a surprise in my mind, my heart, and keeping my eyes open to the possibilities of one of lifes greatest beauties. but how to keep the hope alive when there are others blind to their past? someday, somehow, the dream will be real.

another season

2011-09-13T20:10:00.003-06:00

the season is fastly changing once again. how ive waited for the fall. my favorite of them all with the warm, rich colors swarming in my view. the smells of crisp cool air. im still growing with the seasons. still finding my way in this new life. and changing for the better...

back to nature

2011-09-11T16:21:00.003-06:00

a day was spent in nature. gathering firewood for the upcoming winter season it was a real pleasure to be surronded by the sights and sounds of a forrest. how ive missed the summers of camping and frolicing amonst the woodland creatures.

...

2011-09-08T21:18:00.001-06:00

the brief stillness

of night, of love

in your arms

i was home

somewhere deep in my soul

hearts do not last

but for that moment

it was there

in the twinkle of stars

the dream was real

-sage parks

staying true

2011-09-01T21:04:00.002-06:00

sometimes in life... the road can change directions. which way you decide to go depends on the world you want for yourself. in struggles and confusion the way can become lost or distorted, but all i need to do to regain the strenght i have found is to just stop and see the beauty around me. the beauty in lifes simple joys...

out of the darkness...

2011-08-29T21:52:00.003-06:00

comes the light... things are fresh, beginning with the embers of sunlight glowing and growing with the happiness in my heart. yes... life is much better. i am finding myself once again, and damn it feels good.

The Changes of Season

2011-04-17T22:03:00.002-06:00

With Spring, there are changes. In the air, in the view. Life coming back to bloom and sunshine warming the days to last longer for those crisp evening nights. And with this new season upon us changing everything around us, it now will be me as well changing.

~~~

The reality is a road I never wanted to take but now know that it is the road that has to be taken. I will be stronger, wiser, and above all... happy. With time the wounds will heal and life will be better. For me. And especially for my Son.

~~~

With that, my blogging days will not be over, but will be sporadic for awhile. Until my new life can begin. But with the love of my life, my wonderful little boy, I know that anything will be possible now on this new road of ours.

~~~

Robin

It seems it's gonna be one of those kind of Springs...

2011-04-08T10:19:00.001-06:00

Oh rain... I heart you so very much, but why oh why? did you have to turn to snow this morning?

Happy Birthday to my Mom!

2011-04-04T15:22:00.002-06:00

Her birthday always comes in a great season. When blooms are just appearing, and the light stays longer for those nicer days to hang outside and catch that nice, cool breeze.

Happy Birthday to a special lady!

Love you and thanks for all you do for me and Fritz!

Sundays with Fritz-The Case of the Fort

2011-04-03T23:02:00.002-06:00

Mommy made my day extra fun when she built my very first blanket fort! We had to take it down to eat for dinner, but I will be bugging her first thing in the morning to build it again for me. All my trains and diggers had lots of fun playing in there with me too. It was AWESOME!!!

Fritz... signing off and passing out to sleep after such a fun filled day!

...

2011-04-01T09:04:00.001-06:00

...I think Fritz must have been having one of those days. Poor little dude. This can not be comfortable!

When Olive Garden breadsticks call my name...

2011-03-31T11:13:00.002-06:00

I just have to go!

And Fritz and his Daddy don't mind going either. Oh Fritz, where is your smile??

Wednesday Craft Update~~It's in the wood.

2011-03-30T11:20:00.003-06:00

I wanted to start a new craft project where I would have most of the supplies already on hand. There are a few that should be started soon, but one I just couldn't resist and will be getting my hands on pretty quick. Painting wooden bangles. I love this as I can really be putting my creative art brain on 'think' time and (hopefully) come up with some great new stuff for my store! I only have one ingredient that I need to find before I can start. Here's hoping that's this weekend. ~Have a crafty week!

Ahhh.... just what I needed.

2011-03-29T13:29:00.000-06:00

Sundays with Fritz-The Case of the New Girlfriend

2011-03-27T09:35:00.003-06:00

So yeah... I decided to finally dump my girlfriend that I have had since last July 4th for a new one. I just figured since I never see 'R' anymore and 'Z' has really soft pretty hair (hey I am a guy I can have lousy reasons for liking someone!) that I'm good to go with a new cootie-filled girlie on my arm. She is pretty cute tho!

Fritz (a.k.a. stud muffin) is signing off...

It seems these days are cold once again...

2011-03-25T11:41:00.003-06:00

So let's warm up a bit with that hot cup of cocoa or coffee or tea and sit down next to that warm fire. Brrr... The weather gave us a misunderstanding when it was nearly 60 degrees F last week for a nice few days. Playing outside in the dirt with tractors and diggers, basking in that glowing sun. And then... snow. Ugh. That's Montana for you!

Lunches are better when not planned...

2011-03-24T15:07:00.003-06:00

My oldest, longest friend (not kidding, we were baby pals) Brianne, was in town yesterday for a doctor visit for her little munchkin-poo. Not having much time to girl talk a lot over the past couple of months, it was nice to sit down over shared salads and egg rolls for that chit-chat over every topic available.
~~~
Bri is one of those lights in a persons life that is hard to escape from. Wanting to gravitate towards that wonderful light and be surrounded by it. Her love of friends, vast brain (seriously, ask her anything and she will know something on the subject!) and views on life's little moments are just many of her wonderful qualities. How great is it to be surrounded by people like that? Lovely.

And more to make me have the giggles...

2011-03-22T08:59:00.007-06:00

More of my purchase from Etsy. I LOVE Etsy and all the wonderful crafters/shops!

*Lovely fun tote bag
*Hot pink crystal earrings to match a ring from a different Etsian

*Beatles lyrics ink printed on a very old dictionary page

For some one (such as I) who once was a once a week shopper, I have since mended my ways to only every so often of shopping bag bliss. Besides the monetary advantages to this practice, the healing part of realizations on not holding on to material 'things' has been quite an eye opener.

~~~

Until that shopping bug bites you in the ass and says "Hey chica, where the hell have you been?! We've missed you and get your nice little charge card butt over here!". No, no worries of a shopping addiction, (wink, wink) it's just nice to spend that little bit of cash on me instead of housemaking and humans under 3 feet tall.

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

***Monica, don't laugh. I swear to you I don't have a problem.... well we know I do, but not shopping! Ok, Ok.... I will admit to a wee bit of over indulgence in this instance, but can you blame me? No, I know you can't. ;) Love you!

A few splashes... lovely finds on Etsy.

2011-03-21T15:14:00.005-06:00

Rewarding myself on taxes done well before the deadline, I treated myself to a few of my 'faves' on my favorites list on Etsy. Besides buying a beautiful Japanese geisha-esk print and that being gorgeous in itself, it was a more impressive start to have such a beautiful package arrive on the outside! Oh, I wish I could put ink on paper as pretty!

~~~

And these delicious Japanese fabric magnets to make those boring ol' fridge doors look better!

~~~

More to follow...

Sundays with Fritz...And Fish.

2011-03-13T21:48:00.003-06:00

Just checking out the aquarium! Huge fish in the tank, almost as big as me!!

Have a great week everybody!

xoxo... Fritz.

The true test...

2011-03-11T10:13:00.002-07:00

of Motherhood is when those poor little wee ones are horribly sick with the cold and chills. And there is hardly anything a Mommy can do. Cuddles and nose wipes, stories and cartoons, but most of all just that Mother Love.

Sundasy with Fritz- The Case of the Race Car.

2011-03-06T12:38:00.003-07:00

It was my Mommy's birthday on Saturday, but she told me that it would be fun to go to Home Depot to build a race car. I couldn't have agreed more! Daddy helped me put the pieces together and when it was all finished we got to race it down a track! Now if every day could be like this....... awesome!!!

***Yes, that is my happy smile.

Still winter I guess...

2011-03-04T08:35:00.002-07:00

Frosty. Still. Alfie the cat has it right. Hide under the covers to stay warm until those cold and dreary days have gone by.
~~~
Have a wonderful weekend all!

Wednesday Craft Update ~~ Out of my comfort zone.

2011-03-02T12:29:00.007-07:00

There are those days when all inspiration is.... gone. Where to find it? Will it come back? It seemed I was in a bit of a beading funk of late. Not wanting to really bother with any new ideas or to even bring out supplies. So I decided. Screw it.

Just DO IT!

~~~

I didn't want to start with easy I-can-do-this-in-my-sleep-design, so I thought it would be a perfect time to step out of that comfort zone. Who would'a thunk beading has a comfort zone?? But really, it was only one bracelet (first pictured) that I made where I studied the beads trying to figure out what I was doing with them. Yes there is still some pattern, totally me, but with such random colors and shapes I question what the heck I was doing until it was finished.

~~~

Then I looked at it and loved it.

Here is a set. First one to soon be on My Shop.

Something simple, but funky.

Ready for the blue sky days ahead.

Have a crafty week!

~Robin

Sometimes...

2011-02-24T13:10:00.001-07:00

...naps are just better when taken on the floor.

Wednesday Craft Update-Finally a Model!

2011-02-23T11:24:00.006-07:00

I have made more cowl scarfs over the last couple of weeks, but because most of them were quite big I really had no way to photograph them. With the friend from the post yesterday, I was able to have her come over for a few minutes to get some of the pictures that needed to be done. Through laughing and fun, the pictures turned out perfect with the soft gently falling snow. A few will be going up in my store today and the rest of the week as well. Probably a few next week too!

Have a crafty week!

~Robin

That cup of warm Jo.... wonderful conversations... and people who are amazing..

2011-02-22T11:51:00.003-07:00

A good friend came to town this past weekend, so of course we had to meet up for our usual. Usual place, usual coffee, (almost) usual time. She is off in school in the town that we were living in before, which makes our get-together a little more few and far in between with the fact that we moved a month after she got there. It is one of those situations where we've know each other most of our lives, in fact I use to babysit her at the church camp that we would visit to during off season. Through out the years of graduations, and marriages, we 'knew' each other, but never really got to 'know' each other. All that is changing. Now I can call her and count her as one of those people you hope will stay in your lives for many, many years to come. A true friend.
~~~
Such and amazing woman she is turning out to be too. Kind and generous of heart. Genuine and funny. There are so many good qualities that she has that make her one of those people that need to be in this world. That make it a better place just having them in your life. The kind of person that makes the world seem extra special in knowing that there are people out there that really, truly care. And she does care. About me, the life she is starting to make, friends, and even my wonderful son (who, by the way, adores her too).
~~~
So here's to Mallory. Her cute boots, cheerful smile, just plain awesome-ness, and here's also to our years to come of conversations over that cup of Jo. Cheers lady, you rock!

Sundays with Fritz-The case of "SUN!!!!!!!!!".

2011-02-20T21:47:00.002-07:00

It was really nice and warm one day, so Mommy took me to the park! It's been so long since we were able to play with all the wonderful things that a park has! Sadly, it has snowed again. One day isn't really good enough for me, but oh well, I guess I will just have to wait longer.
~~~
But..... I'm having more fun right now than ever! After two months of not seeing my G & G, I finally get to spend some time with them. I have been playing and having a ball with them all weekend long. I even got an extra day because of the snow! Mommy and Daddy I'm sure miss me, but ya know...I'm having too much fun to even think about them!
~~~
Kisses and hugs,
Fritz... signing off.

Slowly Fading...

2011-02-17T13:56:00.003-07:00

It seems that those sledding days are soon to be gone. Not that we have had much snow this season, but any is good enough for little boys.

One of those nights... Summer I miss you.

2011-02-16T14:28:00.004-07:00

A perfect (Winter?) day with warm, warm weather and sunshine all around. Fritz and I spent a good hour outside basking in this special day in what normally would be cold and frosty. Moving on into the afternoon, fresh breezes came drafting through the kitchen window. Ahhh. Smelling that fresh breath of air it seemed that with the night approaching it would be perfect for a BBQ. Chancing it? If a BBQ happens are we challenging the weather to say "Hold up there, it's still Winter! What'cha think you are doing?". Maybe.

~~~

Man was the food good.

~~~

The perfect ending to the sudden special day was the sunset that has been missing for months. It seemed a summer sky sunset of warm, rich colors. Mind tricks. And really so now as the forecast is saying cold and snow to be headed our way. Damn.

A fresh surprise.

2011-02-15T10:39:00.003-07:00

We aren't ones to really make any kind of celebration on the heart day of Valentine's, I'm not an 'anti' heart day person, or a 'for' kind of one either. It's really just another day to me. But... it was a little bit of a surprise to see the Hubs walking up to the house with these pretties! I haven't had fresh flowers in the house for such a long time, so this is a double good thing. Let's make that triple has he picked out flowers in my favorite colors!

My Sweet Valentine

2011-02-14T14:23:00.003-07:00

My treasured little boy got a special early Valentine on Sunday. After two months of being away (and using Skype on a regular basis) my parents came back home from their travels. After breakfast it was time to make those extra special Valentine cupcakes. Special in the two that were making them. Decorating and eating was the icing on the cake after the laughter and fun of one little boy and a special day. Happy Valentines Day to all out there!

Good morning Moon.

2011-02-08T09:57:00.003-07:00

So far.... every morning (except one-wink, wink) I have stayed true to my resolution of waking early around the same time Monday through Friday. I have most enjoyed the few silent moments of the calm air of dawn, and the scents of fresh brewed coffee. The growing light of day leaves the nights that I love behind, but during these brief slots of time there is a crossworld of sorts. On those rare days at just the right stop of the clock, in the mornings' first breath, the Moon still hovers not wanting to let go of the night.
~~~
That's me. Seeming to be forever stuck in some crossworld where if I were to move back or forward it would change everything. I can't be stuck here forever, so, soon...I need to take that step.

No it's not summer, but what the heck...

2011-02-07T13:29:00.004-07:00

Camping season? Nope. But that didn't stop us from having a bit of fun on Friday evening. Finally trying out our Christmas gift from my parents, it turned into a perfect time for some marshmallow roasting. And oh! How much fun a certain little boy had!

As of today, however, we will have to wait again to add that chocolate to the marshmallows, as snow is blowing in wisps and swirls outside. Once again, every thing of the outdoors is white. I guess that means we will just have to go sledding...

A secret meeting??

2011-02-04T20:53:00.003-07:00

Cats are funny. We all know that, but seriously? I guess my three just needed a new hang out space for the day. I still can't really understand how they all ended up heading in the same direction. But... on further thought, maybe they were waiting for their Mommy to feed them!

*Food bowl downstairs, so of course this would be the perfect spot for the Kitties to block my escape to outside with out the detour of the precious-have-to-be-full-to-the-top-or-else food bowl.

ahhh...

2011-01-25T19:01:00.001-07:00

Something so rare...

2011-01-21T10:12:00.003-07:00

Boo the cat is a Mommy's boy. Straight through, no detours, only ever wants his Momma. Well, that's what I thought anyway. A few nights ago as the Hubs was lying on the couch trying to entice Boo to come see him (which happens about once every 3 years) it happened! Boo actually jumped up to his chest and started the super-paw, purring, love-ys combo that normally is my special time with Boo. Traitor. Oh well...

The writing is on the wall. Literally.

2011-01-20T14:46:00.002-07:00

There are those times when the house is just too 'quiet'. When little boys are playing and having fun, but shouts and noises are absent. That's when the Mommy sense kicks into gear. When it's too quiet, there has got be trouble going on. And yes, here is the evidence. Thank you my sweet little son. Permanent marker is a lovely addition to those pristine walls.

Congrats to the Hubs!

2011-01-18T16:58:00.003-07:00

It's been a long, hard road for the Hubs (and me). Finally, however, all is done! Well technically school was over last Spring, but he just now got his diplomas! After many years of school and hard work he is officially official!

~~~

Thank you Hubs for making it possible to let me be a SAHM. Your hard work is paying off in the eyes of our special little boy!

Sundays with Fritz-The Monday Mommy Addition

2011-01-17T11:45:00.002-07:00

Ahh.... I have one of the cutest kiddos in the world! Love you Piglit. {>

Just a bit frosty...

2011-01-12T10:00:00.001-07:00

Sundays with Fritz-The Case of "We've created a MONSTER!"

2011-01-09T15:35:00.002-07:00

Yeah, that's what my parents are saying now. That I am some kind of monster with my obsession of all things trains. Well... Pooey on them!!!!!!! Hahahahahahahaha!

Fritz....signing off.

Before Sunrise

2011-01-07T09:27:00.003-07:00

Never before taking New Year resolutions, I decided this year would be different. A few are quite personal with high hopes of accomplishing them. Last year, was a quite frankly *shitty* year, the worst I have ever had. I want to change that. Starting with myself as I have neglected my inner being for so long. Time for healing and smiles every day.
~~~
Something on the list is making me feel like I am back in High School or back at work... waking up to an alarm. I am not a morning person at all. I am the night owl who cherishes the darkness of night and the stillness. And being a SAHM you would think that after all day chasing a toddler I would be passed out by 9pm. Not so for me. In the past it has been midnight to 1am that was my usual bedtime. I am lucky in one sense as my kiddo doesn't wake up at the crack of dawn like most. So it was a rare day when we would wake up before 7:30. Usually between 8 and 8:30. After awhile, where every day is a different time of opening my eyes, it kind of wore me down. I have felt off. And not feeling like my day was getting started until almost lunch time.
~~~
I'm changing that now. Three days in to the 7:15 am wake up alarm, and actually I'm getting the hang of it already. Riding a bike. Now there is a few minutes to myself, ALL to myself. Coffee cup in hand, news on the TV, showers with out the curtain being pulled away with giggles... Nice.
~~~
But thankfully the weekend is upon us, and I can once again have that morning to sleep in (*wink*).

***P.S. Even though Sunsets are love to me, now, I can acquaint my eyes with an old friend and take that fresh breath of morning air.

Under the Lunar Sky

2010-12-22T10:19:00.002-07:00

I just had to.... never before have I seen a Lunar eclipse, so I felt the need to especially make the effort to see this one, considering that an eclipse on the Solstice hasn't happened for a couple hundred years and won't again for a couple hundred years more. I've never viewed a lunar eclipse. It's always been one of those things to add to my life's 'list'. A few years ago on Christmas day I was fortunate to view the Solar eclipse that happened then, but never anything under the night time sky.
~~~
And what a beautiful night. Crisp and clear, and completely bone chilling cold outside. But even more so, me, being frozen by the wildness and ancient thrill of those particular minutes viewing an orb that I have loved for so long. How in those moments I was witness to something spectacular.
~~~
It was hard to turn my gaze away from the strange colors of red and orange. Normally the silver white light leaves that feeling of comfort and familiarity, and with the freshly fallen snow laying low on the ground, the world was one of illumination and brightness in the dark. Then slowly the creeping darkness did come, until almost all was black. Then something amazing, when the world I knew turned into a foreign dream. The feelings of wonderment and apprehension mixing together as the moon became a stranger. Asking it, friend or foe?

Sundays with Fritz-The Case of SANTA!!!!

2010-12-19T16:55:00.004-07:00

I guess every year in our town, Santa comes on a big fire truck!!!!!! Mommy said I was sleeping last year when they came, but this year we rushed and hurried really fast to put on shoes and coats from the warm fire place filled house to run outside and see SANTA!!! He even gave me presents! I got a really cool book, and a goody bag with treats too.

~~~

But my question is... why can't he come everyday??

Fritz...signing off.

Wednesday Craft Update-A vase upside down works just as good as a model, right??

2010-12-15T10:32:00.002-07:00

Lots of new items in my shop! AND... there is still time to pick up something for a present and have it shipped in time for that special day coming up!! Click on ME and I will take you there!

My little one.

2010-12-13T15:33:00.003-07:00

Fritz seems to be growing up too fast these days. Multiple new words spoken every day leading into longer sentences and conversations. Realizing that there is a person called Santa who brings presents. Tasks and chores without Mommy or Daddy's help.

~~~

But I am still holding on to the many giggles and chases around the house, the stories before bed time and the 'hewoo Mommy's that I hear a thousand and one times a day. Keeping these moments of childhood, precious and always in my heart.

Sundays with Fritz-The Case of the 'Woe is me'

2010-12-12T23:05:00.002-07:00

Yeah, it's that time of year again. Blah. But luckily I was easily distracted with popsicles! Woot! Woot!

Still feeling it.

2010-12-10T12:13:00.003-07:00

That crafty little bug has bit me hard. I've made (almost) 3 cowl scarfs to put in my shop this weekend, well hopefully today. But I am also getting ready for that first run of my new sewing machine! I acquired some Christmas-y fabric a few years ago, always intending to make a runner for my dinning room table, and by golly and all the holly I think I might finally get to it!!
~~~
And I have finally added some scarfs to my shop! My model plans fell through so I had to get inventive. But pictures are taken, now if my camera could stop acting wonky...

Having a bit of retro fun.

2010-12-08T09:37:00.007-07:00

It's that time of year again! When taking out the lights for our tree, the Hubs put on his puppy dog face and said "Can we use colored lights this year?". Yuck. I hate anything but white lights for my tree. But, I do have to say that the colored lights I got last year for our deck were, well, pretty. Why not for the tree?

~~~

So with colored lights and colored bulbs and hearts, here it is. One retro, rad looking tree.

~~~

And getting out the rest of the decorations, I wasn't feeling the full blown all-Holiday-in-every-corner-of-your-house-decorated thing, so only a few items actually made it out of the boxes. I have to say, it's kind of nice this way. Nice to have a simple Holiday. We won't be traveling, or having a big family dinner with 30+ people, no stresses, just...simple.

~~~

*My Mom has gotten me a Peanuts or Lucy item every Christmas since I was a Junior in High School. The one time you are the Lucy lead in a Charlie Brown musical and you get to be Lucy for life!! But... I love her!!

~~~

I found this night light last year. Could not pass it up. How fun it is to have this little happy Santa glowing every night until Christmas morning.
~~~

And here is the pies de resistance. The family heirloom. The tree in all my Holiday memories. My Grandparents did not have a very large house. It was really very tiny, so with having no room for a live tree, this silver number was purchased and sat in the corner every year behind the front door. There would be lights or decorations and smaller boxes of presents underneath, but with the simple fact that even though they had no room, they made sure they had a tree for those Holiday celebrations with that part of the family.

~~~

And lastly, but the best part of all... Fritz.

~~~

Happy decorating to all!

Thanks Deer, hello right back to ya...

2010-12-07T09:13:00.003-07:00

I'm not too sure what the deer of the neighborhood are really trying to tell me. I kind of feel like I have a crop circle type situation going on. But it was pretty entertaining and surprising to see these letters out in the snow of our front lawn. It does look more like an 'e' and than definitely an 'r', but I do like to think that it is a 'c' for my little wee one's first name connected to mine.
~~~
I thought for sure someone was playing a trick on me (Hubs), but the next day I did see with my own eyes a deer walking through the letter tracks, and yep, they are the same kind!
~~~
Oh deer... how genius you are!

Sundays with Fritz-The Case of the Sad Little Boy

2010-12-05T21:31:00.002-07:00

Before the snow came, one day my Papa (Grandpa) came to visit me for a few minutes. He was just stopping by for a short time from doing his errands (?-whatever those are) and I was really excited 'cause I thought he was here to stay! But... sadly no. I only got to see him for a short time and I was not happy about watching him go! Mommy caught my sadness on camera. And yes, I will admit to screaming out the window and tears galore for a half hour or more. Hey, what can I say? I love my Papa!
~~~
Fritz...signing off.

My creative space?

2010-12-03T11:03:00.005-07:00

I've been busy getting ready for a Holiday craft show this Saturday (tomorrow!) with not a lot of extra time for blogging or FB. Oh darn, not like it wasn't good for me or anything! My craft boxes (the pink ones on the table) are all packed up and ready to go. Everything is labeled and priced and ready to sell! But I first had to make 5 new bracelets yesterday and finish a scarf or two. ;) Here is one of the bracelets. I made 5 in total and was craving to make more, but knew I didn't have the time. 'Tis ok. In my older years, my left thumb has not been wanting to cooperate with beading as much lately.

Going through the scarf pile, I realized that I have made 12 new ones this year. That's a sad pitiful number for me, but with the hand problems of past and being a bit burnt out, oh well. I will have enough to make my booth look good, so no worries there. But... I do have the craft bug again, so I'm sure that number will be changing fast!

Have a crafty, or just plain fabulous week! I'm sure many out there are in the decorating mood, and we will be joining in on that on Sunday. Can't wait!

***And P.S. ...... I finally did it! I finally got myself a new sewing machine! Is it weird to be so excited about that??

A new one..

2010-11-29T09:47:00.006-07:00

After six years of having the same two comforters for our bed, it was time to upgrade. Don't get me wrong, we still love our floral quilt, it's just not very wintry! As in... not warm enough for sure!
~~~
There is something wonderful about one tiny change. A picture here, a vase there. But oh! how I love patterns and design and swirls and ok, everything!

And of course, my little Fritz had to come in and share in the joy of the new bed makings. He's one of those people out to get me with a freshly made bed. ALL roommates I have ever had or family members or friends have had many a laugh at me for one 'quirk' of mine. I despise un-made beds. Yuck. Now that's not saying that I make mine every day or anything. Sometimes there are other important things to be done. Playing robots, or tickling fights, or chasing the kitties around the house. But... when the bed is finally made it needs to stay pretty. And that's where the roommates would get me. They would see my made-up-pretty-as-a-magazine-spread-bed and jump on it and mess things up!!! Oh the horror! Oh the evilness of roommates! However, there were many good laughs, me included. One in particular roommate would mess up my bed nearly every day. For some reason he had a 'sixth sense' about when I was about to or had finished with bed making, and if he was home? Yep. War.

Fritz enjoys torturing me as well. But I let him.

Only because he is the love of my life.

*Do you see Boo pictured in the background? Notice how his ears are down? You guessed right. Boo does not like the little Fritz one bit. Hisses and growls, but I do think that slowly there is some kind of cat/kid understanding going on.

**Don't forget! It's the last day of my Black Friday through Cyber Monday sale! 15% off and FREE shipping! Get your shopping done today!

Wednesday SHOP Update

2010-11-24T13:55:00.002-07:00

I have been crafting, of course!, but I will be spending the afternoon tweaking my shop. All items will be

15% off with free shipping!

Doesn't that sound lovely?? This will be a big sale from Black Fridy through Cyber Monday! I will be having sales in December as well, but this weekend will be the best of the season!

Check my shop out here.

~~~

And have a wonderful, happy Thanksgiving!

Sundays with Fritz-The Case of the 1st 2010 Winter Adventure!

2010-11-21T14:35:00.003-07:00

I finally get to wear my Kitty hat! Woot! Woot! Helping Daddy shovel the driveway. There is so much snow out here!
I also got to put on my neat Bomber jacket that my Uncle got me. He bought it for me for my first Christmas, but now I can actually wear it! I like it, it's neat!

Happy winter season everybody!!

Fritz signing off... gonna go get my frozen toes warmed up by the fire now!

Open windows, the white stuff, and #305

2010-11-19T10:02:00.004-07:00

Such a lovely morning, afternoon we were having yesterday. Such warmth coming from the sun, shinning brightly, but, maybe too brightly?? It's almost Thanksgiving in MONTANA! Hey weather, seriously, what's up? Fresh breezes were filling our house. I figured I would be pushing my luck with the weather, but just had to have that window open. Maybe for the last time in the months to come.
But... later in the early evening, the clouds rolled in and the yellow glow of light turned to blue and gray. Temperature dropping fast, the wind picking up even faster. Nothing happened for awhile. For a few hours, a standstill in the weather world.
~~~
After Fritz was in bed, while picking up the days worth of little kiddo fun, a glance outside and magic! Would it last? Would it snow all night long? Would there be a winter wonderland to see the next day?

Yes. And lots of it! It's still snowing actually! Fritz and I will have to make an adventure out of it soon. It would be loads better, if I could teach a 2.5 month old how to shovel. Not too early for chores, is it?

And finally.... somehow I am on post #305. I had no idea I had that many!

Boo, where are you?

2010-11-18T10:12:00.004-07:00

Well hiding of course! During the hours when Fritz is up and about, running crazy all over the house, the cats seem to hide out on my bed. It's funny when all three are sleeping there, then Fritz comes in and thinks he won the kitty jackpot. Although Boo has the right idea. Usually you can't see him at all. He hides behind the pillows on top of two flat pillows (which are now his) and sleeps the day away without being bothered. Much.

Alfie doesn't care much. She sleeps anywhere in the bed always on sleep-high-alert-for-kids-my-eyes-are-always-open-and-I-will-be-watching-for-you. As soon as she hears little feet walking close, she is up and away faster than a speeding bullet. Not kidding either, it's quite funny.

Ahh cats. They make sometimes boring mornings, all that much more interesting.

Wednesday Craft Update-Carrots, Pins, & Scarf carry-me-away-id-ness

2010-11-17T09:43:00.002-07:00

Fritz and I spent part of the afternoon trying to weather-strip our windows (I wonder if I will save money this winter??) and peeling, cutting, and blanching a BIG bag of carrots to freeze for future yummy-ness. Cooked carrots are so scrumptious! Although, I didn't really think ahead for tonight's dinner. I guess I should have left a pack out. We did cut up quite a few just to snack on, so I can use those. There is something about the winter months, that makes me feel like cooking more. I'm sure it's the heat in the Summer but in the colder months, I feel more adventurous in the kitchen. There is something so wonderful about adding ingredients together to make your eyes close with delight and your mouth water.
~~~
On the crafty side of me, it has pretty much been all about scarfs. In the past couple of weeks, I have made almost 5? Can't remember the real number but that seems about right. They seem to be all in shades of olive green and dark aqua blue. I noticed that and knew I needed to correct this, so now I am working on a solid cream sc no fringe scarf. Just something plain, but elegant. I have booked a table at a craft fair on the 4th of December, so I need to really get my butt in gear now. Pricing out things, tagging, and making sure I have enough product!
~~~
And up above is a hair pin. I made 3 of these this past summer, and fell in love with how cute they are. A pink one, a tan one and a bright aqua blue one. They all have beads sewn into the middle and all are 'swirls'. On back is a hair clasp sewn on. I want to make a few more and put them in my shop, and someday I will. I swear. No really. I do.

Getting in the mood...A Smile List

2010-11-16T12:18:00.003-07:00

Walking in to stores and seeing decorations and holiday items up for sale.
After two weeks of the flu and pink eye, Fritz included, finally feeling a bit 'normal'.
Waiting with crazy anticipation for the first snow. *A few minutes of flakes this morning, but nothing note-worthy*
Cinnamon-apple smelling candles.
Crock pot cooking.
Gloomy gray skies after so much sun.
Knowing that 2010 is almost over (the hardest year of my life so far) and 2011 is just around the corner, waiting to be a great year.
Getting in the holiday mood with Christmas music and hot cocoa. *I know I have a box of old candy canes some where... mmmm...crushed up in hot cocoa-nothing beats that!

Whats on your list these days?

Sundays with Fritz-One year ago post...The Case of the Bad Hair

2010-11-14T19:23:00.002-07:00

I thought it would be funny to revisit my 'Sundays' past and see what I was up to one year ago this weekend! Apparently I was having one serious bad hair day!!! Good thing I have shorter hair now!

Fritz... signing off.

Sundays with Fritz-The Case of the Pumpkin Holiday Weekend

2010-11-07T10:39:00.008-07:00

It was fun to pick out my very own pumpkin! There were so many to choose from.

Mommy said if I stuck my head through this hole, I could be a cute, goofy kid. Hmmmm... I think she was right!

I was a little distracted trying to carve the pumpkins with my Daddy and G'pa. I kept wanting to play only with my trains!

And for those who don't know me very well, a little secret about me... I am obsessed with all things trains! Here I am as Thomas the Tank Engine and my Daddy dressed as a serious Boise State University fan. Let's go get some candy!!!!!

Just checking out my goods. Yummy!

I was really surprised to see that even people who were handing out candy were dressed up too! But... we only got to stay out for a while, as soon the rain was pouring down, we left for home.

Now, I am off to sit my butt in front of the TV. Mommy and I have been sick all week, and won't be better for a couple more weeks!

Tootles! Fritz... signing off.

Wednesday Craft Update-New bracelets in the shop!

2010-10-27T10:36:00.003-06:00

*Pale Me Pretty*

*Four Times Purple*

*Midnight*

Visit my shop here!

And enjoy a crafty week too!

....

2010-10-26T09:23:00.003-06:00

I took a picture of this picture that hung in my room or in my house for almost 15 years. I wanted to remember it, but didn't want to hold on to it anymore. A vacation in the Caribbean, a small Mexican tourist trap, and a painter.
~~~
The fad of the time was to paint works of art with spray paint and use objects (cardboard cutouts, rocks, bowls, anything) to achieve some type of 'scene'. It was amazing to watch a work in process at how quick the artists had become. I'm sure it was more about getting American dollars than the art, but still fascinating.
~~~
After viewing three or four artists around town, I just couldn't quite decide. I had given up on my quest for the perfect picture until the last stop of the day. And there it was. In my favorite colors with a scene that instantly felt 'me'. The paint was still a bit damp, but I wasn't disappointed that I hadn't witnessed the artist making this one. The mystery of how it became was just as important to me as what the painting said to me.
~~~
But over the years, and changes in life, the girl who stared into the painting with wonder and dreams is a completely different person now. No magic anymore could be seen coming through the art. So off it went. Sold to a young lady. But I'm OK with that.
~~~
She can have the dreams and wonderment now.

Sundays with Fritz-The Case of "Do these heels go with my outfit?"

2010-10-24T22:20:00.003-06:00

Just wondering.
Fritz signing off...

Waiting

2010-10-22T09:56:00.005-06:00

Enjoying the last bits of warm weather. How many more days do we get? It seems that every morning that I see the sun peeking out, I get nervous and a bit sad, but also a bit excited, knowing that snow is just around the corner. It's the weather guessing game.

~~~

And soon, we will trade the light jackets for those snow pants and layers. And instead of warmth, breath misting out when we step into the winter.

~~~

Ok Season of Cold.... bring it on. I'm ready.

Wednesday Craft Update~~Busy Beading

2010-10-20T09:57:00.009-06:00

*I Do*

*Natural*

*Golden Sunrise*

It seems like that is all I have been doing for almost two weeks! I have gotten into such the 'groove' that I'm not even cleaning up at night and leaving all crafts out so I can start on them again after breakfast. Thank goodness for some cartoons in the morning, so I can go about pretty much undisturbed.

I believe I have made around ten new bracelets, and slowly they are being listed in my shop. And in great news one of my new items was listed in a treasury! I was very excited about that.

*Treasury is where owner's pick different items from different shops to have a collection. If the Etsy team likes your pick of collections over others, they will show it on the front page. BIG advertising for your store could happen!!

In other crafty news... I have decided to put off the photographs for just a bit longer as with the change in season, it would be much smarter to put up my scarfs! That is the goal between now and Thanksgiving. Maybe not all of the scarfs listed but at hopefully some!

Sundays with Fritz-The Case of the Stickerzzzzz

2010-10-17T21:03:00.002-06:00

Mommy got some free stickers in the mail and she was happy to give them to me to play with. We spent a good half hour going through them, peeling them off, then I would get to stick them on me!!! Well, I'm sure you kinda guessed that with the picture in all.
~~~
Don't stickers sometimes just make everything better???

Fritz signing off....

Oh Deer...

2010-10-16T21:30:00.003-06:00

It doesn't seem crazy to me anymore to walk out on my deck and see some deer just hanging around. I throw things at them (notice the green bucket) and they just give me the 'yeah right' look. But seriously?? How about the one just lounging on the ground? Smart ass deer

Finally having the Fall

2010-10-15T10:43:00.006-06:00

Enjoying this years Autumn Season (finally) in our new town. Missing it last year for some terrible weather, where the views of fall were never shown. Looking out the front windows and seeing the landscape ever changing from last bits of Summer to those colder months starting soon. Hearing the crickets at night slowly fade to silence. And loving those cool crisp morning breezes coming through an open window, every morning pushing the limits to when they will be closed for good. Boo.

~~~

But... most importantly, finding that crafty groove again.

Wednesday Craft Update-Soon to be on shop. And... Bonus Mini-Vacay Photos.

2010-10-13T09:23:00.009-06:00

Here are my favorite photos that came about on the last day of my mini-vacay. I'm in love with so many of them I might need to get one of those multiple picture holder frames!!! I am still doing a bit of research before my photos go up on my shop, but I have a goal of having them up for sale before the end of the month. Yes! I can do it!!!!!!

~~~

Which photo is your favorite?

Sundays with Fritz-The Case of the Umbrella Boy

2010-10-10T17:08:00.004-06:00

Downtown was having a fall festival sort of thing. The weather people had said it was suppose to be really nice out. Umm.... yeah. I think they got the days wrong, 'cause today is really nice, but yesterday was a bit chilly and rainy! Oh well.

~~~

There were vendors with yummy smelling food and makers of jewelry (not my Mommy though) and a place for kiddos to color on pumpkins. We didn't get to stay too long because of the rain, but it was fun having Daddy chase me all over the place!!

~~~

teeheehee.

Fritz signing off...

Mini-Vacay Day 3--Part 2~~~Nothing but beach.

2010-10-07T17:20:00.005-06:00

The day ended gloomy, and misty. But, what says a gorgeous beach has to be only pristine sun and golden sand??

Haystack Rock.

The beach houses of Cannon Beach.

Just a tad too cold for swimming I think.

Mini-Vacay Day 3-Part 1~~~Luxury!

2010-10-06T11:22:00.009-06:00

Relaxing for a few moments to pop a few pieces of salt water taffy in your mouth whilst staring at the waves crashing and hearing the roar of such a powerful water source drown your ears. Yep, that's definitely the best way to spend a day/night at the beach. Beach front resorts!!

My cousin had planned for us a night away from Portland to drive to Cannon Beach. I have been to a couple other towns in that area, but I don't recall being at this particular one. Having so much fun, laughing and car dancing on the way over, we were greeted with beautiful sunshine and awe at the luck of such awesome weather. Granted, it did only last about an hour, but hey! Can't win it all! Being too early to check in to the resort we started to journey towards the town area and find a place for lunch. Such cute stores and businesses there!

Wandering up and down streets after a yummy lunch, camera in hand, the middle part of the day being the best so far. Heading back to the hotel to check-in, a small detour to head to the beach to gaze across the ocean and feel the sea-spray slap your face.

Dressed up and feeling all girlie, and evening of something new awaited us. A cooking class/dinner combo with amazing food and wine. Trying things new for the taste buds. Some scrump-deli-umpcious, some... not. But hey! Anything once right?

And dessert... nothing more really to say about that, except maybe YUM.

Tummy's full and heads swimming with good wine, the hotel suite was beckoning us with soon to be sleep. The best part? Falling asleep to the waves crashing on the beach.

But before that, to take a few moments to myself, I ventured out side. Late in the evening I wandered down the sandy path to try to see the moonless night ocean. Standing with the wind, sand, and sea spraying me down, my hair tossing in circles, the darkness of night gave me those few moments to let my mind find that calm, quiet place it so rarely has.

Beach photos tomorrow!

Mini-Vacay Day 2---Let's take a drive and get some pizza.

2010-10-05T18:17:00.008-06:00

More pictures of a wonderful, fun wee one. Taking a few minutes of time to have smiles and drools and laughs before shopping and naps in a stroller take place. And oh! The shopping! It was so fun to find some new pieces to add to my non-existing-woman-stay-at-home-mom-only wardrobe. Seriously, some cute pieces.

After exhaustion from stores and changing rooms, wearing one of those new outfits to drive through downtown Portland and head to a different location for a hip pizza joint. I love the entrance from the freeway tunnel to downtown. It just pops up, boom.
~~~
I remember the last time I visited during a Thanksgiving holiday and how an afternoon was spent walking the streets downtown with the Christmas decorations and holiday music just starting up. The streets were alive and bubbling with the first hours of holiday shopping.

Half way there... being stopped at a bridge to let a boat through. How exciting!!! I have always wanted to be stopped like this. Alas, though, we were a few cars too many behind to get much of a view.

On to new types of pizza and conversations with strangers. More laughter and stories of funny daily lives. A two hour dinner with memories to last a lifetime.

~~~

Back at the house, stepping outside to drink in some fresh night air, I noticed that the landscaping takes on such a wondrous night life all its own. A little up-lighting here and there and smells of blooms still holding on pushing the limits of Summer gone by, sure can bring a nice calm breath to a tired mind and body.

And tomorrow... the beach.

Mini-Vacay Day 1--Let's get some Jo.

2010-10-04T14:47:00.004-06:00

These next few posts were intended for last week, but alas... I was down with the sickness. Boo.
~~~
All flights were on time and tiredness from the early morning was pushed aside with excitement of the weekend. First stop was for Thai food. I have never tasted this cuisine so my mouth was all ready watering with possibilities of new found flavors. Coconut soup and jasmine tea were starters. Different, not wonderful, but so glad I tried them.

After unloading suitcases and bags at my cousins wonderful, beautiful new house we both needed a bit of a pick-me-up. Luckily the weather was quite perfect for a walk to a shopping center close the the house. And even better the walk was with such a picturesque street!

Enjoying the walk and the scenery, the buzz and energy of a bigger city, the best though, was just sitting down with a nice hot latte and chatting away an hour with one of my most favorite people.

Later that day, back at the house, I ventured outside to my cousins vast back yard. Ahhh... what a place!! Grape vines, mixed types of trees, flowers galore. And of course with the Portland weather, droplets of rain to be found on everything.

A quiet evening then was spent with family and their new wee one. Taking pictures of cute little hands and a smiling face. Home cooked dinner and laughter. And finally a bed to pass out on from exhaustion.

~~~

First day?? Awesome.

Sundays with Fritz-The Case of the Cookie Monster

2010-10-03T23:16:00.005-06:00

It takes complete concentration to eat a cookie this size. ;)

Fritz... signing off.

Wednesday Craft Update-I forgot so...RUSH!

2010-09-22T11:29:00.005-06:00

Every year I donate a scarf or two to my hometown chapter of Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation dinner as a door prize. And wouldn't you know I forgot this year. And wouldn't you know further, I am leaving for a mini-vacay tomorrow, so I am busy getting things ready and planned. So off I went, searching for a scarf to give away. My Mother (who helps with the RMEF) thought it would be cool to have a scarf and bracelet combo as the prize this year. Well, huh. I have never thought of matching a scarf to a bracelet! But... I did!!! I knew I would have to make a new bracelet sometime before I left for my trip. I had the scarf in mind that I wanted to use, but wasn't sure if I had anything that would compliment it. After spending quite some time fiddling with different combinations, the above picture is what I came up with. But of course, I liked it so much I had to keep it for myself (yes, this HAS happened plenty of times before). Well, I knew this bracelet would be perfect with the scarf and luckily I had enough beads in a oval shape to make another one. I don't do two of a kinds. I'm unique, what can I say??

Oh! They look so good together too! I know it is harder to tell in a photo, but they really do!
~~~

On a different side note... but still crafty. I finally was able to acquire some professional tools for my trade!!! The bonus being the case came in one of my most favorite colors!

My greedy little hands are excited with all the possibilities that these instruments can come up with.... Mwuahahahaha.

Anyway... Tootles to everyone, as I am off to pack!!!

P.S. Sundays with Fritz will be either delayed a day or back the following week.

The great sneak out...

2010-09-20T14:15:00.003-06:00

When having a toddler running from outback to the house and back again, guaranteed you will have an open door from time to time. As I was stepping outside to pick up toys and take a breath of that fresh evening-soon-to-be-Autumn air, I heard a meow. Turning my gaze I caught her. Melba. Having a bit of fun chasing grasshoppers and snacking on a bit of freshly mowed grass.

~~~

My cats do NOT go outside. In fact in the (almost) five years that we have had Alfie, she has never been outside unless in a carrier. Since our yard is completely fenced in, I feel OK if the fur-balls roam outside when they sneak out. But I do not want it to become habit for them.

~~~

After letting Melba rumble around in the yard with me tailing her for cute kitty pictures, I scooped her up to carry her back to the house. Of course, then all the other kitties had to 'smell' her and ask her about her great adventure.

Sundays with Fritz-The Case of the Cheese-y Place

2010-09-19T19:54:00.005-06:00

On Saturday night, Mommy and Daddy had decided to take me to ChuckECheese. It's a place that drives my Mommy crazy, but she told me that she had had a birthday there (at the same place!) when she was a wee one like me.

~~~

We got to eat pizza, and watch other kids run around all crazy. There were also a lot of games to play on. It was so much fun that by the time it was bedtime, I passed right out from all the excitement!

~~~

Having family fun nights is so much, well, fun!!!

~Fritz... signing off.

Friday mix up...

2010-09-17T08:54:00.007-06:00

Finding a snack on a vacation, buying a package, realizing months later that that snack was incredibly awesome and wondering where the !%$@ to acquire here. Luckily, convincing your parents on their next trip to visit Sis to please track down incredibly awesome treat. But maybe... find a way to just fly to Spain and buy truckloads there?? That would be incredibly awesome as well. Finally finding my cutters/benders to whip out three new bracelets. One for the shop, and two for fairs. And falling in love with this new one listed in my shop. Sparkle.

And lastly... getting rid of ugly, clown, crap hair. Finding myself, for one day, beautiful. I'm gonna call this new hair my Kardashian do.

Playing with the moonlight...

2010-09-14T00:00:00.002-06:00

Ahh... to have a cool, crisp, blackened sky. Basking under the flash of light rising above our hill. And smelling that faint earthy signature scent of Fall just around the corner.

Sundays with Fritz-The Case of the Dirty Boy

2010-09-12T23:28:00.004-06:00

So last weekend, the 'rents and me went driving to find my G'rents at some camping ground. I have been camping only two other times in my life (one of those times was actually on the other side of the river as this time!!!).
~~~
Oh! It was such a fantastic world of discovery!!!!!! I got to play in the dirt and mud and water, and sleep in a tent, and try to catch little toads. I even got to stay up late to watch the campfire. I tried to tell Mommy and Daddy that we needed to do this every weekend, but they said "Not possible honey." Boo. Well, hopefully since it is the end of summer I can at least try to get them to go one more time. Hopefully??
~~~

Here's me playing in the swamp bits of the Yellowstone River.And me and Daddy doing the dishes!!

And here is G'pa teaching me how to play baseball. I think this was actually the most fun out of all the things I did that weekend! And, I might add... I got pretty dang good at hitting the ball. I wonder if this means I have sports in my future??

Bye bye all!!!

Fritz... signing off.

Never Forget.

2010-09-11T09:03:00.003-06:00

Today. 9/11. I can still smell and hear all in the lobby of the hotel I worked. I was stuck behind the desk, answering phone call after phone call. Trying to help people in the fact that we were all stuck. No planes, no flights to anywhere. People booking extra nights, or checking back in. The lobby filled with people staring at the TV with solemn expressions.

~~~

And me? Confusion. Because I was really the only one working at the hotel during those hours (I'm not kidding, all other personnel were watching the TV-managers, housekeeping, bar staff). I didn't really fully get to understand what was going on until after work, after my dentist appt, after traveling home.

~~~

Then it hit me. At home with my roommates, the exhaustion and sadness of the day left me speechless.

~~~

After hearing news reports full time for days on end, my boyfriend at the time and I decided that we needed to get away. So we loaded the car for a quick camping trip with no radio and no TV. But the crazy part was the silence...

~~~

No planes in the sky. I remember that most from those days. It's a wonderment to have a particular sound coming from the outside world in your everyday life. And then to have that gone. I remember being outside my town house, looking up at the sky and hearing, nothing. It was eerie in a way that really felt empty, for lack of a better word.

~~~

So here we are, nine years later, but still feeling so recent in time. Still the questions in the air of why, and how could they do this to other humans no matter our problems. To know that our world has come to this where others hate so badly, they would do anything to show power over others. So how do we find peace? Maybe in the everyday sunset, where the beauty of our world can help us heal and know that there is always a tomorrow.

~~~

It hurts to watch video of those days, but important, I think, at the same time. So that yes, we never forget.

A little family time on the river...

2010-09-09T12:59:00.012-06:00

A Holiday weekend. Perfect crisp morning weather. Heavy rains in the evening, leaving sleeping in a tent, snuggled in a sleeping bag, all that much more thrilling. Spending a camping trip dirty and happy for one little boy. Finding beautiful rocks (Montana Moss Agates) and enjoying the fresh Yellowstone River air.

~~~

What could be more perfect than that?

Wednesday Craft Update-Let's set a goal!

2010-09-08T08:55:00.003-06:00

I finished a scarf last week. I feel so accomplished that I have two finished scarves! With the reality of winter fast approaching and realizing that I need to get my 'hands' in gear to complete more, I will set myself a goal for this month. Although it may seem low, I figure it's a good start. Ok.... here is to having 5 finished beautiful crochet anything! done by the end of this month!

It's the simple things...

2010-09-02T12:41:00.002-06:00

That can bring a smile to my face. The September issue of Vogue (fashion bible!!!). And a freshly brewed cup of coffee. Ahhh, makes that rainy day extra special.
~~~
Now if I could just find a Nordies around MT to grab those delicious blue shoes. ;)

Wednesday Craft Update-Back for a limited time!

2010-09-01T13:44:00.004-06:00

Kind of... My hand is still pretty bad. Hopefully after a Doc appt. next week will bring some relief. But, I was able to slowly crochet a new winter scarf! I do not have much stock left after the Christmas fair last year of warm, winter wearables, so I really need to get on it. Slowly, of course.

Sundays with Fritz...

2010-08-29T22:27:00.000-06:00

Have a thumbs up kinda week!!!

xoxo,

Fritz

~

2010-08-27T10:29:00.005-06:00

There is something so special about holding on to a little boys hand on a cool evening, and going for a nice long walk. Enjoying the last bits of Summer in an amazing Sunset. Then watching that boy run with delight to chase grasshoppers and stop every few feet to find rocks. Nothing can ever compare to those precious minutes with a calm evening, and one amazing little man.

'Tis The Season...

2010-08-26T14:38:00.003-06:00

...For once again to wake up and find deer enjoying our yard. But, how cute are these two little babies with their little spots still showing?

Sundays with Fritz-The Case of the Lake

2010-08-22T15:09:00.003-06:00

Last Sunday, and today as well, we drove over to a nearby lake to check it out as we haven't been there yet since we moved to our new town. I've been to one other lake before, but man this one was much prettier! AND.... it had a beach!

~~~

We checked out a few different spots around the lake. Had lunch. Well, I didn't really as there were just too many things to see and do! But today was extra special because I got to go swimming too!

~~~

That's me and my Daddy in the above picture. He's in the yellow shirt, and that's me getting brave enough to go into the water up to my waist!

still crafty.... but not...

2010-08-18T14:27:00.002-06:00

I needed a break from all things craft which came at a good time as a small problem with my 'craft' hand has led me pretty incapable to doing any fun crafting! Hopefully I will be able to get back to it soon, and plus... finally got a printer that will print my photos! Double plus... got my main computer fixed as well!

Like No Time Apart

2010-08-17T11:53:00.007-06:00

Nothing can beat a few days with a great friend, and her wee one.

Spending time, hanging out, laughing and talking.

Of course adding the little bits of shopping in the mix.

Enjoying the sunshine with two wonderful kids running around.
Conversations that never end .

Monica and her pretty hair.

Mixing drinks and playing games. Realizing that even though the time apart

has been almost a year, it doesn't feel like a day has gone by.

More sun with squeals and giggles mixed in, by both tots and adults.

Lounging by the pool and wishing for just one more day for the laughing

and stories to continue.

Until next time...

A Week Filled With Rainbows

2010-08-12T14:22:00.005-06:00

Three rainbows on three different nights in one week. What could be better than that??

New Purse Love and a Special Birthday

2010-08-09T15:30:00.003-06:00

I'm loving the new purse that I bought from World Market. It's from India (yeah, I pretty much love anything from there) and I'm calling it my cafe bag. Perfect for a date night movie, or meeting a friend for a little cuppa.
~~~
My wonderful, loving, Uncle Greg would have been 60 years old yesterday. He was such an amazing person with love for life even in his trials and tribulations. When his tour of duty was done in Vietnam, and gathering at the old swimming hole, a group of friends and him decided to play the 'last one in is a rotten egg!' game. Unfortunately for my Uncle the river was not as deep as it had been the last time leading to an accident that left him a quadriplegic for the rest of his life. But even with this, and surviving well past the years Doctors told him, he always had a smile on his face whenever we would visit. I have so many fond memories of spending the weekend or camping or riding on his lap in his wheelchair, and even though he has been gone for many years now, he is still there, in my heart.
~
Love you forever... Mick the Rat.

Sundays with Fritz-Let's Eat!!! Ok, Really Just Color

2010-08-08T23:05:00.006-06:00

Last Monday, Mommy and I went on a little drive to pick up Grandpa, and knowing that it was lunch time and we all would be hungry we stopped off to have a bite. To my wonderful surprise, they had paper covering the entire table. This of course was perfect for my little hands to get some drawing going on!!! Here's my very pretty picture. Grandpa helped me write my name and he also helped me draw some cars and people! Mommy said the car looked like an animal of some sort
.

This was the place we ate at. It was pretty tasty. I had fish n'chips and man, oh man!!! The fries were soooooooo good!!!

Here was Grandpa helping me choose what color of crayon to use next.

Fritz... signing off.

P.S. Hmm... I think I just might want to become an artist!!!