Country Vintage

Liam at the Zoo

2011-04-12T14:13:00.000-05:00

Well we finally had some decent weather here on Sunday, and when I say decent, it went from 40 degrees on Saturday, to 80 degrees on Sunday...sheesh. Cassie and I decided to take Liam to the zoo. So, we headed to IHOP for breakfast first...and we had put sandals on Liam...weeelllll...he didn't know how to walk in them and kissed the cement sidewalk...not a pretty sight on his little forehead. Poor little guy!

They didn't have alot of the animals out which was pretty sad considering it's not that big of a zoo. He totally loves giraffe's...we watch Praise Baby DVD's all the time when I'm watching him and they have them on there. The bad thing is that he's not old enough yet to follow when you're pointing at something, so if the animal didn't move, he really didn't get that there was anything there. Oh well, we had an awesome time anyway and I love spending time with my kids!!!

Glenn and I are heading to Atlanta at the end of the month...I'll be working a couple of days and then we'll take a few more days and go fishing and visit a friend of mine. Looking forward to a couple days away...but not being away from my little Liam!!!

Take care all...and have a wonderful Easter!

Hugz,

Michele

I've Been Soooo Bad!

2011-03-09T10:44:00.000-06:00

Hi everyone,

Can't believe it's been so long since I've posted here on my blog. With Facebook, it seems that's where I've been hanging out lately! Plus, I've had some people leaving nasty comments on my last post...don't know what that was all about...

Let's see...what's new? Work is still work...my bosses travel have been traveling so much lately, and when that happens, I either work from home or as was the case last week, Glenn and I went ice fishing and snowmobiling up north. It was fun, but the snow had started to melt, got cold and then turned to ice, which is hard when you're trying to drive a snowmobile!

Liam is getting so big....this is from Christmas, but I just love that smile of his. Can't believe he's 16 months old...where does the time go! Still trying to get him to say "gamma"...he has no trouble with "gampa"...lol!

This is what the kids got me for Christmas...portraits of the three of them together...and then one of each of them separately.

And here is little peanut riding on the quad with gampa...all you hear from him when he's in the house is...vrooom vroom and he points to the garage!

I haven't been thrifting in I don't know how long. Don't know how Liam will do with going into stores with breakables...and I definitely am NOT going to be carrying him!

Well, I'm going to try to wander around and visit y'all...it's been such a long time and I've missed everyone so much!

Love and big hugz,
Michele

Week in Chicago

2010-10-28T14:36:00.000-05:00

Last weekend, Glenn and I were in Chicago for a convention for work. It was fun, but definitely tiring...and alot of work. I cannot believe how expensive that town is...$6 for a small bottle of water...$22 for a breakfast buffet....what? I never eat $22 worth of food for breakfast. Here is my boss, Tom, toasting our new company at our booth...it was called the American Academy of Ophthalmologists (eye surgeons). I can't believe he's our CEO and running this company...he's so intelligent!

This is me...cutting into a pigs eye (it's what we use for demonstrations)...the knife I'm using is one of our products. I thought I wouldn't be able to do it, but I did!

Glenn, Cassie and I took Liam to the pumpkin farm...he's still kind of small and didn't really understand what was going on, but we took pictures anyway!

Glenn and I are off to Charleston, SC on Tuesday...for our Sales Meeting. We're going to stay a couple of days longer and go deep sea fishing. I'm so ready for some time off...it's been quite crazy at work lately.

Hope everyone has a great Halloween...I'm thinking of putting up my Christmas tree when we get back...ya, I know, I'm crazy. I've been playing Christmas songs on my computer at work...honestly, it's the only thing that puts me in a good mood!

Take care...miss y'all!
Michele

Happy 22nd Birthday to my Beautiful Daughter Cassie!

2010-10-04T15:20:00.000-05:00

I can't believe my little girl....

....could grow up into such a beautiful young woman!!!

I'm so incredibly proud of you Cassie...and love you so very much. You are such a wonderful mom to Liam and my very best friend...xoxoxoxo

2010 Fun Holiday Gift Guide

2010-09-30T10:50:00.001-05:00

Just wanted to let y'all know about some fun stuff that will be happening over at the "Fun Saving Money" blog. Mellisa always has some cool product reviews and great info on giveaway's all around blogland, as well as coupon sites to visit. Go check her out, bookmark her blog and come back often to check out what she's got goin on!

Hugz,
Michele

I really hate when kids grow up....

2010-09-20T15:17:00.000-05:00

It seems like just yesterday that Cassie was delivering my precious little grandson, and now he's almost a year old. He always wants to be on the "go" and has absolutely no fear. He's climbing and is so close to walking...stands there and looks at you like "oh no, no one is holding me"!

He really loves his gampa...and gampa is teaching him all kinds of things...like how to turn the lights off!!!

I love this picture...Cassie can really get him laughing!!!

This is the first time I took him to the park...he loves swinging!!!

I've really been looking forward to putting out my fall and Halloween decorations. Liam is having such fun with the lights I put around the windows. I wasn't able to put out all the breakable decor, but for this year, I like how it looks.

I've been able to get around to visiting a few of you now and then. I'm busy planning our sales meeting...it's in Charleston, SC, so I'm very much looking forward to spending a few days after the meeting is over with Glenn..hoping to get in some deep sea fishing!!!

Hope all is well with all of you...miss you!!

Hugz,

Michele

I've Missed You Guys!

2010-08-11T12:17:00.000-05:00

Things have been quite a bit crazy here lately, but finally starting to slow down at work. I've really missed checking in with you girls and finding out what's been going on.

Glenn and I went 4-wheeling up in northern Wisconsin last weekend...what a fun time we had. But then he called me at work Monday morning...someone had stolen our quads...we had them sitting on our trailer in the backyard. Unbelieveable...I always felt so safe in this neighborhood. How these jerks could just come into our yard and take something that wasn't theirs...and the keys weren't even in the ignition, so they would have to hot-wire them to be able to ride. The police have been around to all the neighbors and asking them to keep their eyes open...and I put together a flyer that I'm going to pass out too. I'm just so pissed off that this happened...and we didn't have insurance either...:(

On to something happier...here's some recent pics of little Liam...can't believe he's 9 months old already. He definitely keeps Gamma and Gampa hopping when we're watching him. He's so funny and always bring a smile to my face...I love him so much!

Hopefully, now that things have slowed down, I'll be able to visit y'all...I have lots of catching up to do!

Take care..and big hugz!
Michele

Updates!

2010-07-13T10:52:00.003-05:00

Just wanted to stop in and say hi to everyone. Still working very long hours trying to get our company up and running. My last day with Cardinal is this Friday....I'm doing the happy dance here!!! Our furniture gets delivered to the new office tomorrow and that's a big check mark off my list!

Here are some cute pics of my little Liam...can't believe he's 8 months old already.

He absolutely loves his pool and once he's in there, doesn't want to get back out!

Glenn and I went to the Cubs game on July 3rd in the Skybox...what a fun time we had!

We had some bad news yesterday...Glenn lost his job. I'm not really that upset about it because he was always so stressed there...and I've been trying to convince him to find something else. So I'm hoping he'll rest up for the summer and try to heal his back...then maybe find a job he really likes. He's been thinking of driving semi...we'll have to see if that works out!

I just absolutely love this picture...he was getting ready to get in the bathtub...it's almost like he's sayin..."oh hi gammpa...it's bathtime!"

Cassie found an apartment, so her and Liam will be moving out soon. That will be very hard for me to get used to...not having that little peanut around all the time. I know she wants to be out on her own and I'll probably still watch him when she works...but that won't be the same...I know, I'm whining!

I'm hoping that once things settle down in the new company, I'll be able to post more often. In the meantime...happy summer!

Hugz,

Michele

My Sister...My Bestfriend

2010-07-02T13:35:00.001-05:00

December 20, 1950 - July 2, 1997

I can hardly believe on that day 13 years ago, I would never see you again. You left me without saying good-bye...I know we'll meet again someday, but Ingrid, I miss you more than words can say. You were my best friend...and to know that you'll never see your daughter, niece and nephew grow up...hurts so much.

I love you girl...hope you're taking good care of mom...

Michele

I Can Finally Share Why I've Been A Blog Slacker!

2010-06-09T14:35:00.000-05:00

I can finally share why I've been so absent here in blogland. My boss and I are leaving the company where we've both worked for over 20 years (him 24, me 33 years)...to run a start-up company in the opthalmic business. He will be the CEO of this new company. We have been working non-stop to get everything in order so that this could become a reality..instead of just a dream! This company doesn't even have a name yet!!! I am so honored that he would want me to come with him...we've worked together for almost 12 years and we seem to know what each other is thinking!

Our last day with our current company is July 16th...it seems so far away! I've tried to visit all of you when I had time lately, but there just doesn't seem to be enough hours in my day. I've really missed catching up with everyone! Hopefully, things will start to calm down just a little...but maybe not, since we literally, have to order everything from furniture to computers for our new office!

I've also got new pictures to share with you of Liam...he's growing so fast...almost 7 months now and crawling and climbing on everything!

Thanks for understanding why I've been away...love you all!

Michele

I Finally Won Something!

2010-04-20T11:12:00.000-05:00

I'm so excited...I won the giveaway from Sher at Old Time Me Artist aka Grinnin Gramma and look at all the goodies she sent me!

I am such a lucky girl...she sent me an awesome embellished can (I think I'm going to use it for my paint brushes!), a little birdie on a small box, a gorgeous teapot that is already sitting on my kitchen table, some awesome vintage pattern books, papers, and that "to die for" apron! Thanks so much Sher!

So, Glenn and I were coming back from his mom's house on Saturday and we spotted this beautiful swan sitting on her nest, with the daddy not far behind...

I can't belive we could get as close as we did...but it was so amazing how they made the nest and not have it fall into the water!!!

Look at this little cutie pie...Kendra (Glenn's daughter...she's pregnant and due in July!) put Liam on our 4-wheeler. It was like he already knew it should be taking him for a ride around the yard! I'm still looking for a helmet for him!

Hope everyone is having a good week so far. I might take off this afternoon and get some things done outside. It's supposed to rain starting on Thursday through the weekend...oh joy!

Hugz,

Michele

I Need to Vent...sorry if this offends anyone

2010-04-13T13:42:00.000-05:00

I usually don't come on my blog to vent negative feelings, but I really need to get something off my chest...it's really bugging me.

So...Sunday, I'm watching Liam...love that boy!! Cassie comes home and I'm sitting outside feeding Liam his bottle. She asks me if I fed him cereal, I say, no, I'm sorry, I forgot. Well.....she proceeds to rip me a new one saying I feed him cereal all the time at dinner time. Well folks, maybe I'm getting old or just add one more thing for me to remember, but I honestly forgot. She starts yelling (and I mean YELLING) at me outside...for all the neighbors to hear. I said, ya know, I'm not one of your friends that you can stomp on whenever the need hits you, I'm your mother. Well, she then proceeds to throw her soda cup (filled) at me, gets in my face, saying go ahead then, hit me, come on, hit me. Honestly folks, I can't believe that was even my daughter. She turned into this raving maniac, screaming at me like I was a piece of dirt on the sidewalk. Glenn comes up and tries to get her out of my face, because I was still holding Liam. Poor kid...didn't know what was going on...just knew that I took the bottle out of his mouth. The language coming out of her mouth just amazed me.

So I just left...went and sat at the park to calm down. I came home about a hour later and she had gone to dinner with her father. I get this text message on my phone from her saying she was sorry, but she just wanted me to have authority with her...say WHAT? She's frickin 21 years old. I still haven't talked to her, I always watch Liam on Tuesday and Thursdays...I sent her a text asking if I was watching him tonight, she says no. I said...so you're denying me seeing my grandson? She says, no...if I (meaning me) can't work this out, then she'll have someone else watch him.

Honestly, I don't know what to do. I am not apologizing to her...I didn't do anything (other than forget to give Liam his cereal)...I have no idea what has gotten into her. Sheesh...like I need any other stress in my life.

HELP!

Hugz,
Michele

Easter Pictures

2010-04-07T15:24:00.000-05:00

Hope everyone had a wonderful Easter. Our weather here in Wisconsin was so windy that things were literally flying off the deck. I thought Liam and Cassie were going to blow away when Liam was looking for his Easter eggs (it was really Cassie looking for them, but Liam got to put them in his mouth!).

He was definitely excited with his Easter basket from Gramma...lots of things to play with and put in his mouth...again!

Cassie gave him a little slice of apple, a piece of cantalope and a carrot...oh my gosh, what faces he made.

I can't wait until I can feed him real food...that he can swallow...lol! Right now all he can do is gum them!

I wanted to make an Easter lamb cake for dessert...well...I didn't know how long to bake it and when I took it out, the lamb's tummy wasn't cooked all the way. So, I found this recipe for a "Peeps" Sunflower Cake....it was absolutely heavenly...

Kendra (Glenn's daughter) decorated the inside of the sunflower and around the bottom. It was soooo good...and there's none left..hehehe!

I really need to get my butt in gear and clean out closets and storage for the garage sale. We always have it Memorial Day weekend...and it's slowly creeping up on me. If it would stay nice out for longer than a day, I could actually get out in the garage and clean THAT up too!

Hope everyone has a wonderful weekend...I'll be tryin to get that cleaning done outside. Plus, Glenn is making my garden, so hopefully that can be planted soon too!

Hugz,

Michele

Wishing you all a Wonderful Easter!

2010-04-02T08:55:00.000-05:00

I still cannot believe that Easter is in 2 days....although I did get all the Easter baskets made up yesterday. Even though the kids are 21 and 19, they still get their baskets! And now Liam is getting into the act...but he doesn't get candy yet. I bought him some cool little toys and some clothes...I know...BORING! But we did fill some plastic eggs and, if the weather is nice, Gramma will let him go hunt for them!

I'm having everyone over on Sunday...even though Cassie and Mark have to work. I know...who the heck goes to Popeye's on Easter. Cassie is not happy...she requested it off so she could spend Liam's first Easter with him. I'm making a pork roast on the grill, along with potato salad and macaroni salad...that's what everyone wanted! Doesn't sound much like an Easter dinner, but it will keep them happy!

Look at this little peanut...I was out working in the yard on Wednesday and had my baseball cap on...Liam took it off, so we decided to see how it looked on him. I know I'm partial, but I think he's absolutely adorable! Looks like he's waving to everyone!

I still have so much work to do in the yard...raking and planting and fertilizing. Can't believe we hit a record temp yesterday - 82 degrees! It was absolutely wonderful...Liam kept watching the birds and the trees blowing...couldn't figure out what was going on..lol!

Want to wish everyone a very Happy Easter...enjoy the day that the Lord has given us.

Big hugz!

Michele

I Live with a STAR!!!

2010-03-24T11:53:00.000-05:00

So sorry about being absent these days. Work is so very busy...and when I get home, I'm either playing with Liam or farming on Facebook. I know...what a waste of time. But by then, my brain in mush!

Anyway...what I wanted to share with you today is that I live with a star...and that star is Glenn. See, a couple of months ago, I was on the website of my favorite author, Robyn Carr. She has this contest where she picks people to be on her "Virgin River Calendar". Virgin River is a place in a series of her books...which are so good, I think you should go out and read them all. Once I start one, I can't put it down.

So, I send in Glenn's picture...and he ends up on the February 2010 page of her calendar....Here's the link. I'm so very proud of him...

This little peanut is growing so fast. He's so much fun...and now that it's getting a tad bit warmer, we're going to start going for a walk after work. Anything to get my fat butt out of the house and get some exercise!

I finally put up my Easter decoration last weekend...I'll try to get some pics of some of the new/old stuff I found at the thrift store!

Hugz,

Michele

A Very Relaxing Fishing Trip in Door County!

2010-03-08T15:02:00.003-06:00

First off...I DIDN'T CATCH A DAM THING! Grrrrrrrr! Don't know what the problem was, but there really weren't a ton of people out on the lake that were catching anything. But it was very relaxing!

First...I wanted to get a picture of the hole that we drill, so that you can see how much ice we're on. Here there was about 16"...that's my line going down there, but unfortunately, nothing came back up!

Glenn was thinking he was funny and taking pictures....I was not impressed as you can tell!

This was one of the most gorgeous sunsets....Everything is so peaceful up there...no city lights or noise!

Here's the 6 whitefish that Glenn caught...that's it the whole trip! They're now all cleaned and waiting to be cooked....yum, can't wait!

Hehehehe....I got back at him!

This ice is called "blue ice". Because the water is so clear, this is what it looks like when it freezes....just amazingly beautiful! (click it to make it bigger, so you can see the blue)

Then, there's this little peanut....who looked like he grew about a foot while we were gone. Man, I missed him!

All in all, it was a fun trip. Ate WAY too much...OMGosh, the food up there was awesome. Door County is beautiful no matter what season!

So back to the old grind...work this week will be a true test of my patience. Had to bring Glenn to the ER last Friday because he was having chest pains. We still don't know what it was...dr. appt. tonight after work. Hmmmm, wonder if I can go back on vacation....lol!

Be safe everyone!

Hugz,

Michele

And We're Off!!!

2010-02-26T11:40:00.000-06:00

Tomorrow...this is what we'll be doing....ahhhhh, I CANNOT wait!

This was from a couple years ago...I hope the catch this year is MUCH bigger! I've already got bets with Glenn to out fish him and told Liam that Granma is catching a fish as big as him!

Pics and details to come on Thursday!

Have a wonderful weekend...be safe!

Hugz,
Michele

Glenn's Birthday, Jury Duty and......Liam!!!

2010-02-16T15:47:00.001-06:00

Ugh....I had jury duty this week. Good thing is tho...I'M DONE ALREADY! Ha, I went yesterday and didn't get called to any trials, so they make you call this phone number to see if you have to come in the next day....and they said I'm done for the rest of the week....whooo hooo! It was sooooo boring sitting there...I read one whole book just waiting to be called.

After I left, I drove by the Lake (Michigan) and stopped to take some pictures (click on them so you can se them bigger). We only live about a mile away from it and I love how the ice forms on the rocks and sand. It was definitely cold tho!

Last week was Glenn's birthday....we went out for dinner and I just had to take a picture of this burger...I CANNOT believe he fit that whole thing in his mouth!

His combination Valentine's Day/Birthday present is a ice fishing trip up to Door County. We're going the first week of March...I absolutely cannot wait! I'll be sure to get plenty of pictures because this part of the state is so beautiful...any season of the year, but especially in the winter with all the ice on the bluffs.

Here is a really good picture of Liam with his Grandpa...oh my, that little boy just loves him.

I went out thrifting a little this weekend and didn't end up buying anything...I know, that is so not like me. I'm trying to save my money for the trip. I do think there's some good stores up there!

Hope everyone had a great Valentine's Day...personally, it's not my favorite holiday...but I love all the CANDY!

Hugz,

Michele

What Makes Me Happy and Swap Goodies!

2010-02-04T14:31:00.015-06:00

I just received an award and was tagged by my sweet girlfriend, Noelle, to name 10 things that make me happy.....

Here's the cute award!

1. My two wonderful kids

2. My sweet, sexy Glenn

3. My precious little Liam

4. My wonderful bosses and the best job in the world!

5. Ice fishing

6. Crafting and glittering

7. Watching football

8. Shopping at craft stores

9. Being pain free....but don't think that will happen anytime soon!!!

10. A good dinner out with Glenn

I know I'm supposed to tag 10 people to list what makes them happy, but I'll let whomever wants to do this to feel free!

I participated in a Valentine swap, hosted by Dolly at From my Cherry Heart. I was paired with Tammy from Home in Virginia and oh my goodness did she spoil me! Look at all the goodies I received....

What a cute card...

This was the box that everything was in...I absolutely love it..and it's PINK!

Here's everything wrapped up so pretty....until I tore into it!

Look at all this sweetness....ha...especially the brownie pictured there - it's now GONE!

I can't wait to wear those socks...they're so warm and soft! And look at that little doll..it's just the cutest thing!

And chocolate....yummm...and a candle!

Thank you Tammy so much....I love everything!

Here are two of my three favorite men...Glenn and Liam! Oh my gosh, Liam just loves his grandpa! And the reason Glenn has his glasses on his forehead --- that's what he does when he reads, so Liam is used to seeing them up there. When he doesn't have them there, Liam looks at Glenn's forehead like something is missing...lol!

Well...the weather here is not getting any warmer. We're supposed to have snow again this weekend...but the good news is that Glenn and I will hopefully be going ice fishing in the next couple of weeks...yippeee!!!

Take care everyone...and stay warm!

Hugz,

Michele

Finally Got some Valentine's Crafts Done!

2010-02-01T11:36:00.007-06:00

I finally found some time to finish a few Valentine's projects...at least it was a couple of weeks before the actual day!

I have about 4 of these in process of being finished, but wanted to get at least one listed in my Etsy shoppe! I love doing these houses...each one is different and they're so fun to do.

I saw these wreaths at Williams Sonoma...forgot how much they were, but it was a lot, so I decided to make one myself. Between Holly of Girls at Heart, and Twyla of Two Crazy Crafters, I was able to get some old vintage Valentine's that I could print off and use. I used a Dollar Tree wreath form, found some red polka dot material and used that to wind around, then hot glued the little Valentine's onto the material. I love how it turned out!

And I just couldn't post and not include a picture of my adorable little Liam. He's growing so much and is starting to develop a real personality. He loves his grandma and breaks out into a big smile whenever he sees me!!!

Not much else new or exciting...my weekends are now full of watching Liam while Cassie works. I can't wait until it's a little warmer and I can take him with me to the thrift stores and garage sales!

Hugz,
Michele

Another Year Older!

2010-01-21T10:39:00.007-06:00

Yes friends, tomorrow I will be another year older...but another year wiser??? Not so sure about that!

I've had so much on my mind lately, that I think I need to take a step back and see everything that I have to be thankful for. My kids, Glenn, my job (which I love), a roof over my head...I see all those poor children in Haiti that have lost their parents...oh how hard that is to watch. I know God is watching out for them, but my heart just breaks to see all the pain and suffering.

Wanted to share a picture from last Sunday...we had some freezing rain and sleet over night and this is what our tree looking like outside our back door. It was simply beautiful! Please ignore the pallets out there...we never got around to using them in our bonfires!

I have been crafting a little this week...I will hopefully have a few things done to show you by the weekend. My poor kitchen...I just get it cleaned up and then, once again, I spread all my craft supplies and projects all over the table!

Have a wonderful weekend y'all...and be safe!

Hugz,

Michele

Christmas...A Little Late

2010-01-12T13:14:00.004-06:00

I know I'm a little late with getting some Christmas pictures posted, but just haven't had my groove on to blog. I've still been visiting, but let's face it...my life is just borrrriinnnngg!

We had a wonderful, quiet Christmas...enjoying this little peanut. I spoiled him...but that's what Grandma's are for right? I wanted to buy him a little toy motorcycle, but I got a severe "mom, he's only a month old" from Cassie. So I settled for a little thing you put on the car seat carrier that makes noise...how absolutely boring.

I love this picture of Liam with Cassie...his bib (which I bought him of course)...says "Chick Magnet"...hehehehe! I just love this little boy...and am constantly telling him so!

Well, we do have some good news...Cassie passed her state board for hair design and barbering...yippeee!!! I'm so incredibly proud of her...she is so good with hair and will do so well!

And Mark...well...this son of mine impressed me so much. For his first semester at college, his GPA was a 4.0 and he made the deans list...all while working 42 hours a week! God has graced me with the BEST children (and grandchild) in the world!

I haven't really done any crafting, although I am in a Valentine swap that I need to get started on soon. Liam bought me (well, I really bought it, but he wrapped it up...well, Cassie wrapped it) for Christmas a Cricut. I got such a deal on the day after Thanksgiving...at Michael's...instead of it being $299, I got it for...wait for it....$65. Yup...can't wait to start using it!

That's my life in a nutshell...we're in the process of looking for another house to rent. The one we're in right now is just not big enough and I really want Liam to have his own room, along with Grandma having a craft room again!

We're actually going to have a heat wave here in Wisconsin...it's supposed to be 30 degrees tomorrow...whooooot!

Hugz,
Michele

Wishing you a VERY Merry Christmas!

2009-12-24T08:29:00.002-06:00

Wanted to take a quick moment and wish all my friends a very Blessed and Merry Christmas. May you spend time with the ones you love and enjoy peace in this wonderful day.

Big hugz from my home to yours,

Michele

I Need to Diet!!!!

2009-12-17T09:59:00.006-06:00

What a title huh??!!! OMG, I have been doing nothing but eating these days and I definitely have to stop. None of my clothes are fitting and I will NOT buy bigger sizes. Yesterday, me and 3 of the secretaries that have worked together for a long time went out for a Christmas lunch. We try to go out at least once a month...but this month we went to a more expensive restaurant. The place we went to is Tsukasa...it's a Japanese restaurant where they cook the food in front of you. The picture below is where they get the oil hot and then fire it up! Talk about some intense heat!!!

I got steak tenderloins and shrimp...let me tell you girls...this is the BEST food. With your meal you get a salad, with a dressing that I can't even begin to describe...I think it has horseradish in it and it's so delish! Then you get fried rice, veggies and your main course. The only thing not cooked in front of you is the salad...I was so full...you get an enormous amount of food!

Here's the 4 of us...this pic makes me look like 2 ton tessie...no lie, I'm dieting after the holidays! It's Carol, me, Sue and Linda...what a group we are. Then we drew names and exchanged a $10 gift...it was so much fun!

Here's my little peanut...in his Bears shirt!! I'm startin him early!!! I bought him those little Ugg boots (not the real ones)...he just looked so adorable!

I had to go pick up one of Glenn's presents at Cabela's and Santa was there...so of course, Liam had to sit on Santa's lap. He was sound asleep...and didn't cry!

Cassie and Liam are in Green Bay visiting her girlfriend and I am definitely missin my little boy. They're only staying a couple of days, but sheesh, my house is empty without them there!

Well, we never got the 10 inches of snow we were supposed to get last week. Since we live so close to Lake Michigan, we got mostly rain and sleet...I think we only got about 2 inches....so sorry there aren't any pictures of our blizzard!

I think I'm finally done with my shopping...all that's left is a few stocking stuffers...yeah!!! My truck is taking longer than anticipated to get the engine replaced. And now the guy doesn't want to do the lift kit, so I've had to find another mechanic that is willing to do it...grrrrr! I wanted it back by Christmas...but oh well!

Take care all....
Hugz,
Michele

Swap Gifts

2009-12-08T13:45:00.009-06:00

I was paired with Noelle from Lil Bits and Pieces of Me for the Homemade Christmas Swap that Heidi put together....oh my goodness..Noelle sent me the greatest goodies! Wonderful ornaments and chocolate...hmmmm, I love chocolate!

Wonderful odds and ends...ribbons and buttons...ohhhh, I can't wait to create more things!

This cute stocking that she embellished...it's so adorable!

This is what it looked like all wrapped up!

Thanks Noelle!

I just love this picture of Cassie and Liam sleeping...I just couldn't help myself and had to take it! Liam is definitely have a hard time with spittting up and sleeping. Cassie talked to the nurse today, so hopefully he won't have to go on any medication!

She took her state board test yesterday...should find out in 2-3 weeks if she passed. What a long day...we didn't get done until almost 4:00...All 3 of us were tired and needed naps!

Still haven't put up any decorations...not sure if I will or not. Just haven't had the energy lately! We're supposed to get a foot of snow tonight...I'll be sure to post pics!

Hugz all!

Michele

Where Did the Time Go???

2009-12-03T09:35:00.007-06:00

Well, these pictures just made me cry my eyes out...my babies have grown so beautifully. I can't believe the awesome pictures they had taken yesterday. Cassie and Mark's dad wanted a portrait of them for Christmas, so Cassie decided to bring Liam along for some of the pics. These are a few of my favorites....

Look at that little face...and with his little fist, he seems to say..."take another picture and this is what you'll get!"

I think this is the one I will have framed and put on my living room wall...although, if it were up to me, they would all be framed and hung with pride!!!

And this guy....will turn 19 tomorrow...oh where did the time go? I remember I was just holding him in my arms as a baby...it can't be possible that he's now taller than me!

Sorry I haven't been around much lately...just haven't had my groove on to blog, although I have been around visiting! My decorations haven't been put up yet either...don't know what's wrong with me these days!

We're supposed to get 1-2 inches of snow tomorrow...yippee...can't wait for the ice to get here!

Hugz all!
Michele

Everyone Needs a Little Christmas Cheer

2009-11-19T10:55:00.009-06:00

Hi everyone...can I just tell you how much I love this little boy???? When I get home from work at night, I can't wait to pick him up and hug and snuggle him. He seems to know my voice and my perfume smell, because he instantly smiles and coos...he's just the best gift from God. Cassie is a wonderful mom...I never thought my baby would have a baby at such a young age, but she's so good with him.

I finally had time to get pictures taken of some of my winter houses. I was originally calling them Christmas houses, but you could really leave them out all winter, so I changed the name!!! So I uploaded them all onto my Etsy account. While I was going through things, I found some other vintage Christmas items that I'm going to try to get listed too. Oh man, I wish I had about 24 more hours in a day...that would help so much!

I love making these...they have so much personality. I still have about 15 in progress on the kitchen table...which, by the way, I should probably work on cleaning up so we'll have a place to eat on Thanksgiving...ya think!!!

I finally found a Christmas music station that I can listen to on my computer at work. Our company blocks all the local radio stations, which I think is stupid...it's not like I blast it or anything. I love Christmas music....and Glenn, being a scrooge, won't let me listen to it in his truck...:(

Some other bit of news...I took out a loan through my 401K account and am getting a new engine for my truck. Oh how I've missed driving her...I blew the engine a year ago and just couldn't afford fixing it, but now I should have it back by the 2nd week of December....I'm sooooo excited!!!! I'll be sure to post a picture when I get it back...she'll be all shiney and clean!!!

Anyway, hope everyone is getting ready for Thanksgiving. It's finally beginning to get a winter feel to the weather around here. It was pretty chilly the beginning of the week...highs were in the high 30's....I can't wait for ice fishing to start...yipppeee!!!! You can bet I'll be teaching Liam how to fish when he's old enough...in about 6 months...lol...just kidding Cassie!

Take care everyone and have a great weekend!!!

Hugz,

Michele

Pictures

2009-11-11T14:51:00.006-06:00

Isn't he just an angel??? Too precious for words.......

I'm so in love with him already.

I just brought Cassie home from the hospital today....she feels great, except for her back hurting just a tad.

Thanks so much for everyone's prayers...God gave me a truly wonderful gift.

Hugz,
Michele

Liam is HERE!

2009-11-10T07:47:00.003-06:00

Just a quick note to let everyone know that little Liam decided to make his appearance yesterday afternoon. He was born at 2:46 pm, and weighed in at 7 lbs 12 oz, and was 20 inches long. Both Cassie and Liam are doing great. She doesn't want to put him down...just keeps looking at him and saying how she can't believe she's a mom!!! I finally did get to hold him last night while she took a shower...and I had a hard time giving him back to her!!! He looks just like Cassie did when she was born...like a little angel!

I have pictures on my camera, but they were all taken right when he was born. I'm going back to the hospital today, so I'll get better ones and post them tonight.

Thanks for everyone's prayers...God is truly wonderful!

Big hugz,
Michele

Still Waiting for My Grandson!

2009-11-04T10:51:00.004-06:00

We're still waiting for little Liam to make his appearance. Cassie went to the dr. today and she's still only dilated to 2 cm...so we could be in for a little longer wait. Her due date is Saturday! Here she is all dressed up for Halloween...she looked gorgeous! Honestly, if you look at her from the back, she doesn't even look pregnant!

I've been busy working on my Christmas houses and snowmen to put in my Etsy shoppe. You'd laugh if you saw my kitchen table because I have about 15 house in different stages...with glitter everywhere! Don't know where I will put everything for Thanksgiving dinner!

Nothing else really new here...I can't visit everyone like I used to here at work. We've been so busy...but I've been sneeking a peek every now and then!

The weather here is very cold...only 40 today...but then it's supposed to warm up to the 60's this weekend! So far, no one in the family has gotten the flu...fingers crossed! But I do need to get my flu shots soon...

Take care everyone...and I'll update as soon as baby Liam arrives!

Hugz,
Michele

The Google Game

2009-10-15T15:28:00.013-05:00

I found this cool game from Lisa Anne at Smell the Coffee Lisa. If you haven't been over to visit her, go now...she's a hoot!

So here's how the Google Game works. You read the questions and then go to Google, do a search of images and post the best image you see on the first page of images for these ten things.

K?? Here goes:

1. Your favorite beverage:

2. Your hometown:

3. Your favorite TV show:

4. Your occupation/you are in school for:

5. Your first car:

6. Your favorite food:

7. Celebrity you've been told you resemble....sorry folks, I don't look like anyone famous!!!

8. Celebrity on your "to do" list:

9. Favorite Childhood toy:

Well...there you have it!!! Hopefully, you'll know all the pictures...or can guess who my "to do" person is!!!

Can't believe it's almost Friday...this week has just flown by. Not much planned for this weekend...I suppose I should try to organize my house...looks like a tornado went through it!!! I always have good intentions...then don't really have the energy to do it!!!

Stay safe all!
Hugz,
Michele

Baby Shower Pics

2009-10-13T15:59:00.007-05:00

I cannot believe that my little grandson will be soon!!! Cassie's shower was this past Sunday...she received such nice gifts from everyone. Of course, I forgot to take a lot of pictures, but managed a couple while she was opening presents. All of her presents are sitting in the middle of my living room floor. She got some duplicates, but not much...mostly blankets and socks. Liam did get a TON of cute little outfits...can't wait to take him out visiting so he'll be stylin!!!

This picture below was when she was opening my gift...I'll try to get a better picture of it tonight. In a glass jar, I put together a Mother's Survival Kit, so she's reading the little card on the outside. I also bought her one of those bears that when you turn it on it simulates the noise in a mother's womb...it was one of the things she wanted. I also made her wooden blocks with Liam's name on them...I'll try to get a picture of those too.

This was the cake I made for her...I had a little trouble with the right wheel - I dropped the piping bag into it...this is the best I could do to repair it! Everyone raved at how good it tasted...ummm, it was just a box cake and homemade frosting..lol!!!

Then we ordered another cake just to make sure we had enough. I had so much food left...lasagna, mostaccioli and italian beef. Mmmmmm, I love leftovers!

I went to Cassie's graduation on Friday...she's finally done with Cosmetology school. This picture below is her and her favorite teacher....they all loved Cassie and were sorry to see her go...guess she was the life of the classroom!!!

We're going to be organizing the baby clothes in the next couple of days, so I'll take more pictures. She only has 3 weeks left until her due date....it's approaching so fast now!!! Then to top off all this activity, she turned 21 last weekend...yikes, my baby having a baby!!!

Have a good week all...more pics to come!

Hugz,
Michele

2009-10-02T15:39:00.005-05:00

I think this picture sums up my feelings rather nicely today! I am soooo glad that the weekend is here. I have been busting my butt at work...and when I get home at night, I've been doing the last minute planning for Cassie's shower. Which, by the way, is a week from Sunday. Next week, I will be making all the lasagna, so that on Saturday, I can concentrate on making her cake. I'll be sure to take pictures...I'm actually getting a little excited!!!

Cassie will turn 21 on Sunday...can't believe my little baby, who's now having a little baby, will turn 21. Just can't be possible...how can they grow up so fast???

I found this little meme on Elizabeth's blog...thought it was a good way to get rid of frustration on a Friday!!!

Four (odd) jobs I've Had: dental assistant, phlebotomist, accounts receivable clerk, park attendant (I painted swing sets!)

Four Places I've Lived: Illinois, Wisconsin...pretty boring huh!

Four Places I've Vacationed: Oregon; Door County, WI; Upper Peninsula, MI; Ft. Lauderdale

Four of My Favorite Dishes: Lobster, lasagna, pork roast, deep dish pizza

Four Sites I Visit Daily: Facebook (I'm a farmin fool), My Blog, email, Cardinal website (work)

Four TV Shows I Love: American Idol, House, Dancing with the Stars, Hell's Kitchen...and anything football!!!

Four Places I'd Rather Be Right Now: Alaska, Door County, Up North (Land o Lakes, WI), Australia

I hope to have some good pictures to post on Monday...I know I haven't posted that much lately, but I have been around visiting!!!

The weather here is very fallish...very cool nights - I've actually had to turn the heat on, it's gotten down to the high 30's. The days only get into the low 60's. I love it...but at the same time, I'm really looking forward to snow and ice fishing!!!

Have a wonderful weekend everyone!!!
Hugz,
Michele

Fall Decor!!!

2009-09-11T10:09:00.009-05:00

Sorry for the absence again...Glenn and I went up his Dad's house just north of Wisconsin Dells last weekend. Thought we were going to go fishing in Dad's pontoon...but that didn't happen. Guess he just wasn't in the mood to be out on the lake, so Glenn and I just fished from shore. Didn't catch anything, but it was relaxing none the less. I did end up with a migraine, which happens when I'm out in the sun too long...it was bad enough that I had to give myself a shot.

Then we took off an extra day on Tuesday and just relaxed some more! I love long weekends!

I finally got my fall decorations put out...here are a couple of pictures...

This shelf unit is in my kitchen...which will be undergoing some MAJOR cleaning this weekend. There are so many boxes in there that you can't even walk around the island. Glenn will be going to his mothers to paint her garage, so guess I'll be hanging around here and cleaning!!!

This is a bar stool in the kitchen that we really don't sit on...so I decorated it instead!

This little vintage telephone stool is in my living room....the straw pumpkins have lights that I've weaved through them...they look cool when it's dark! The HOME letters I made, but don't really have a place for them. That picture in the pink frame is of my mom and sister when they still lived in Germany...man I miss them.

Got this little boy and girl at Hobby Lobby last year at 90% off...love me those kinds of sales!

This table is behind my couch...that white tray that the candles are sitting in was an awful brown color, so I painted it, distressed it and now it holds my fall candles.

Please excuse the diapers that are in the background of this next picture...people at work are helping Cassie out with diapers, which I'm so thankful for. Love this little glittered pumpkin under my cloche!!

This tiered wood container was an ugly brown color too...before I painted it a beautiful barn red...and now it holds lots of pumpkins and gourds!

I have pictures from our weekend, but didn't want to bore you all with so many pics in one post!

I've been busy planning Cassie's shower...I'm trying to save money by making all the food myself...was thinking maybe lasagna or broasted chicken...haven't decided yet! She's about 7 1/2 months now and starting to get excited and scared all at once! We've been so blessed with friends giving us clothes and diapers for the baby. I've been visiting my thrift stores and instead of buying stuff for me, I'm looking for baby things....never thought I'd be doin that!

Anyway, I'm off to the Cubs game with my son. My boss has Skybox tickets, so I got to go and take my son with...love the food in those skybox suites!

Have a great weekend everyone...it's supposed to be beautiful fall weather here!

Hugz,

Michele

One Project Down, Tons More to Go

2009-08-28T14:34:00.004-05:00

Hello all...sorry for the delay in posting again. My life has been a whirlwind in the last 2 weeks. Still trying to sort through Cassie accident...I hired a lawyer because the other ladies insurance was just being jerky and I will NOT have Cassie and my little grandbaby hurting because of that woman. Cassie is feeling better, but she's now complaining about swollen ankles..lol, I told her welcome to pregnancy!!! They're not that bad really, but she's on her feet all day at school and then works a couple nights a week and on the weekends, so they're starting to look more like cankles every day!!!

I finally starting working on some more Halloween projects. I started glittering my skeletons and can't wait to get them finished so I can show you. One big project that I got done was my mannequin. I got this one free from work..I think they used it to model our scrubs at national meetings. I took her from looking like this...

...to looking beautiful like this. All I did was modge podge some old vintage patterns on her and now she looks wonderful! Please ignore the messy table in the background. Since I don't have a craft room, I'm using our kitchen table. Not a lot of room to say the least!

I'm on the lookout now for a really old vintage wedding dress made from lace that she can wear and I'll add my rhinestone jewelry to her. Glenn asked me where she was going, and I replied..."our bedroom". I just got an eyeroll. I don't have a studio or craft room anymore, so that's the logical place for her to live!

Mark starts college next Monday. I'm so glad that he's living at home with me...I don't think I could handle any more stress in my life right now. Although, I'm thinking that once the baby comes, he might change his mind when he's crying at 2:00 in the morning!

It's supposed to be a cool 60 degrees for a high this weekend. I brought all my fall and Halloween decorations up from the basement, so I'm hoping to get them put out and get some pictures taken so I can share with you. I love fall, so I'm just itching to put away all the summer decor!

Have a wonderful and safe weekend all...

Hugz,

Michele

I Won a Giveaway...yeah, ME!!!

2009-08-13T15:47:00.005-05:00

I can't believe I won this great giveaway from Joan over at Anything Goes Here. Look at this absolutely awesome book I received...it's called the Curious Collector. It has all kinds of the coolest collections and little blurbs about them and what you need to know.

I found a couple of new collections that I might want to have my hand in...mercury glass...

And jadeite...these green plates, cups and other things are just too cute! Thanks so much Jane for picking my name in your giveaway!

What was so awesome about finding Jane's blog, is that she lives so close to me...I need to find time to visit her when she does the antique shows...although, Glenn will probably tell me not to go...cuz you know how I love to shop for antiques and vintage things!!!

Now some not so good news....Cassie was involved in a car accident on Tuesday and she totaled her car. Someone pulled out in front of her when she was about 2 blocks away from her school. She couldn't stop in time and hit the lady. Since her car is over 10 years old, they said it was totaled. She called me screaming and crying, so worried about the baby. I raced up there...and I mean raced...a ride that should have taken me almost 90 minutes, took me a 1/2 hour....yikes. I took her to the hospital to be checked out...then transported her by ambulance to another hospital that had a more advanced neo-natal unit, in case something was wrong with the baby. They monitored her for 24 hours, and everything was okay with both her and the baby. Yesterday, after I picked her up from the hospital, she told me her neck was hurting. I was up with her all night last night because she was throwing up and had severe back pains. She went to the ER this morning and she has an infection in her kidney. This poor girl...I feel so helpless. I'm hoping that once she has the antibiotics in her system, she'll start to feel better. And I'm hoping that the lady has insurance, because I had to rent a car, for which I have absolutely no money for. In Wisconsin, you don't get a copy of the accident report at the scene, you have to go to the police department to request it. My insurance is actually doing more to get us compensated. I'm really close to getting an attorney, because I don't want this lady getting away with anything.

Whew...what a couple of days! I cannot wait for the weekend! I'm actually in the mood to start putting out my Halloween and fall decoration....I know, it's a little early, but I think I'm done with summer!

Hope everyone has a great weekend!!! I would appreciate it if y'all could keep Cassie and the baby in your prayers.

Hugz,

Michele

Halloween Houses...Finally Done!!

2009-08-10T10:31:00.007-05:00

I finally got my Halloween houses finished...I made two different sizes. This is the taller one...

And this is the smaller sized house....

They are so fun to make...now I have to start on the Christmas houses...=)

We had some major thunder and lightening storms yesterday that knocked out our power for about 2 hours. I was right in the middle of finishing some snowmen when it got really dark out (it was 4pm...and looked like it was 10:00). Not a good time for the air conditioning to go out when it was about 95 degrees out and VERY humid. Here are a couple of pictures of the sky...it was really scary with winds of about 50 mph. My poor tomatoes really took a beating!

This picture below was really neat looking. As you looked up into the clouds it was almost like you could see swirling...like a tornado starting. Luckily, it wasn't that severe!!!

We really didn't do anything all weekend...I mostly just worked on crafts. With it being that hot out, my air in the car isn't sending out cool air, so I just stuck to the house, where it was cool the majority of the time!!!

Hope everyone has a great week!

Hugz,

Michele

Snowmen in August????

2009-08-04T13:10:00.009-05:00

There's someone I'd like you to meet...this here is Henrietta!!! She's gotten a little tangled up in the Christmas lights...guess she was trying to sort through them before I have to put them on the tree....

I just love making snowmen...each one has their own personality! Henrietta stands about a foot tall and glows so beautifully when you plug in the Christmas lights. I finally got around to finishing her last night...I still have about 15 more bodies done...just need to make their hats and decorate them! She'll be heading over to my Etsy shoppe soon!

We saw this wonderful lady on Saturday night...Sara Evans...what an awesome country singer she is. Sorry the pictures didn't turn out that great...guess there were too many people dancin on the bleachers!!!

Then Sunday, we spent 8 hours at the fair...mostly watching this.....

I love demo derby's...and Glenn seems to think he can drive in one next year....wait..what???? Those guys get thrown all over those cars...even when they're seatbelted in. Sheesh...and that back surgery goes down the drain then...MEN...need I say more???

Hope everyone has a great week..

Hugz,

Michele

Weekend Plans

2009-07-31T11:18:00.003-05:00

This was the sky when Glenn and I were driving home from work last night. I can't put into words how beautiful it was...the sun was streaking through the dark clouds. We really need the rain...but I think it only rained for about 15 minutes...sheesh, my grass is more brown than green!

And here is my little girl...I could just slap her..she doesn't look 6 1/2 months pregnant does she??? I'm kidding...I guess I'm getting used to it...and she's feeling great, just tired!

So does anyone know how I can get about another 12 hours in my day???? No? Well, darn it, I have so much crafting to do and can't muster up the energy when I get home!!!

The fair is this weekend and I'm hoping we'll be able to go one of the days...the demo derby is Sunday and that's my favorite part of it...love to watch those guys smashing their junkers!!

Have a wonderful weekend.....be safe!

Hugz,

Michele

Bad Blogger!

2009-07-29T10:07:00.003-05:00

I know I've been a bad blogger lately, but I just haven't had anything worthy to share with y'all!

Been trying to get our house in order...that's no easy task, let me tell ya! Cassie is trying to downsize her room, so she'll have room for a bassinet and all the other baby things! I don't really have the money to buy new things for her, but a girl at work is giving me stuff that her grandkids have outgrown, so that is helping tremendously. I took her to Target on Saturday so she could register....I'll try to put together a little shower for her in October. Money is so tight these days, I just can't afford to do anything....makes me feel so bad...she's my daughter and I want to be able to help her out.

Been working on my Halloween crafts...have 4 houses in the process of being finished and glitter all over my kitchen floor..lol. I've really missed working on them...I'm actually really getting in the holiday mood lately...don't know what's with that!

Anyway, I apologize for not being a good blogger, but I have been out visiting when I get time.

Take care all...and I promise to have pictures soon of my new Halloween houses!

Hugz,
Michele

Update on Cassie

2009-07-14T08:38:00.004-05:00

Cassie went to the doctor last week...they did a "stat" ultrasound to find out how far along she is. Folks...I almost fell off my chair when the nurse said she was 22 weeks, 2 days...that's 5 1/2 months...sheesh! It makes her due date November 10th. Bad news is that being that far along she's missed a few important tests that needed to be done. Don't know what the doctor will do now. The ultrasound tech also said it was a boy...although, I don't put much faith in that test. I think they will be doing an amnio since she's so far along.

Fishing update...no pictures...actually, there was only 1 fish caught so far, and it was caught by Glenn. I only went out on Saturday night (well, really it was Sunday morning, because we got on the water at 4 am). Let me tell you...I got so seasick, it was horrible. I spent about an hour in the cabin, until I finally asked Glenn to take me in. The waves were supposed to be 1-2 feet...they were more like 3-4 with some 5's thrown in. That boat was throwing everyone around like they were dolls.

Needless to say, I won't be going out there for quite awhile, unless there is absolutely no wind...and no waves!!!

That's about all the exciting news on the homefront. I'm hoping to get a picture soon of Cassie...she actually doesn't even look pregnant...I could slap her...I was in maternity clothes at 2 months!!!

Have a wonderful week all!

Hugz,

Michele

Blogoversary

2009-07-07T14:11:00.002-05:00

I can't believe it's been a year today that I started blogging. I have made the best of friends here in blogland. You all are here for me when I'm down and need words of wisdom and I don't know what I would do without you. Thank you, thank you, thank you....all of you!

Glenn and I are supposed to be in a fishing tournament starting on Saturday...and running until the following Sunday. It's sooooo long...and it gets so hot out there on Lake Michigan. Even tho you're out on the lake, when there is no breeze, it gets stifling hot...and then the black flies start biting on everyone...but all in all, it's a fun time!! Hopefully, I can catch something big and be able to post a picture!

Hope everyone has a great week!
Hugz,
Michele

News

2009-06-30T15:37:00.002-05:00

First off...this is not the best news I have to share with you...and some of you will disagree with me for saying that.

My daughter, Cassie, is expecting a baby. Let me say, that this was quite a surprise to me, since she's:

#1 - still in school

#2 - not married

#3 - living at home

#4 - does not have a job

#5 - does not have insurance

I'm sure I could think of more, but those are the ones that came to mind first. Half of me is okay with this, the other half wants to wring her neck. You always have these hopes for your children that they'll at least be married and settled into their careers before they decide to jump into motherhood.

She thinks that she's about 4 months along...she doesn't have a doctor's appt. until next Tuesday. Hopefully, she will still be able to graduate and take her state boards before the baby comes.

Anyway, more news to follow.....

Hugz,

Michele

Disappointed

2009-06-23T14:11:00.004-05:00

Well girls...no pictures of the garage sale...I didn't do too well! We had horrible storms on Friday night and a tornado touched down about a 1/2 mile from our house. The driveway, back and front yards were all flooded. I honestly didn't think it would dry out for the sale on Saturday, but we got up, the sun was shining and there was only a puddle here and there. Normally, we have so much stuff to sell, but this year, I guess we just weren't too into it. Cassie made about $40 and I made just a little over $100. I packed up all the leftovers and took them to Goodwill. Glenn said to me..."you have to have stuff to make money". I replied..."then I guess I need to shop more". I don't think that was what he meant!

The weather here today is VERY hot and humid..supposed to be almost 100 degrees...I think I remember saying I wanted it warmer, but not like this! I've had a migraine now for the last 3 days, which I get every time the weather turns hot. It just won't go away...even my Immitrex shots aren't working...:(

We're trying to get ready for Mark's graduation party this weekend...and on Friday, I'm off work so that Mark and I can attend his college orientation. I'm taking off on Thursday too, and going to Cassie's salon for a facial and manicure...gotta love those discounted services!!!

Take care everyone...gotta love Maxine...she cracks me up!

Hugz,

Michele

What a Surprise!!!

2009-06-18T15:23:00.004-05:00

And I guess it wasn't the type of surprise we wanted..lol! Last night, as Glenn and his brother were trying to clean up the boat to get it ready for our fishing tournament in a couple of weeks, they opened up the engine compartment to find these little guys!!! And not just 2 of them...there were 5!!! They seemed to be only a month old...without their mother. We're thinking what happened is that they got into the boat when it was parked at Glenn's mom's house. Then last weekend, we brought it back to our house to work on it, so they've been in there for almost a week with no food. They were absolutely adorable...I wanted to keep them as pets, but as you can guess, Glenn said no. I called the animal control, and they said they could come and pick them up....wait for this....for a fee of $95.....whhhhhat???? So Glenn and his brother took them to some woods a few miles away and let them go. I'm such a worry wart...I hope they don't die...they're just babies.

Our yard sale is this weekend...I'm so not ready! I've been trying to price everything, but I keep finding more stuff to get rid of. It's supposed to be sunny and 78 degrees this weekend. It's about time....I just can't believe how cold it's been...seems like it's fall instead of summer! I'm taking off tomorrow...I might head to a few sales....like I need to bring more stuff into the house!!!

I still have to post pictures of my projects and the goodies I found from last weeks sales. I'm so behind!

Have a wonderful weekend all....maybe if I get time, I'll take some pics of the things we have for sale. You can never tell what someone else might want!!!

Hugz,

Michele

My Finds from Last Weekend!

2009-06-11T10:22:00.005-05:00

I finally remembered this morning to take pics of the finds from last weekend's garage sales. I know I bought more...have to find where I put them. Things are scattered all over my house because Cassie and I are trying to get ready for our own garage sale next weekend. I have piles in every room and we're constantly stepping over things or moving things around to be able to sit on the couch. I hate my house like this!!!

Anyway...this is my favorite...right now it's a very ucky dirty white. I'm going to clean it this weekend and put a little more white spray paint on it. It will go in my bathroom...we have absolutely no storage in there, so this will help with that alittle.

This is a little coin purse...the beadwork is just beautiful!

Does anyone remember these Snoopy doggies!? They make noise as you pull them across the floor. I fell in love with him when I saw him...it reminded me of when I was little. Sometimes I wonder what happened to all my toys....hmmmmm!!! Bear is absolutely scared to death of him...he's a wimp.

I will try to take pics of my projects tonight. The weather has just been horrible here lately. Raining and cold every night! I can't believe it's June 11th...feels more like November! Maybe this weekend it will cooperate a little so I can get some more work done outside. We're still trying to get the flowers planted...at least before Mark's graduation party at the end of the month!

Take care all!

Hugz,

Michele

On to Better Things!!!

2009-06-08T08:16:00.004-05:00

This is what we did over the weekend....Mark graduated on Saturday night. Can I just say how proud I am of him??? He graduated with honors (that's indicated by the metal around his neck) and was ranked 15 out of 418 kids...pretty impressive Mark!!! Sorry I'm bragging, but these two are the light of my life. I love you guys!!!

I worked on some projects yesterday, but forgot to take pics, so will do when I get home from work. Glenn and I also stopped at garage sales on Friday...found some great buys, so I'll post those pics too.

My back is feeling great...can't believe it!!! I forgot what it's like to be pain-free!!!

Be back tomorrow with more pics!!!

Hugz,

Michele

Have I Mentioned that I Don't Like Needles???

2009-05-29T15:51:00.003-05:00

Well...I don't! Wednesday I headed to the hospital for my back shot. Let me tell you...I was a basket case. Somehow, needles and the spine don't go that well together in my eyes.

Anyways....Mark took me (what a good son he is). The nurses are so nice at Lake Forest Hospital (both kids were born there...and they have the BEST food). The first one walked me through what the doctor was going to be doing. They had me lay on the side that was hurting...and using an X-ray machine, located where the shot was going to go. The doctor gave me a few shots of numbing solution...I felt like a pressure, but not pain. I asked him how long he was going to wait until he gave me the actual shot...he said, I already did. Sheesh...didn't feel a thing!

He said it would take about a week to 10 days for the pain to totally go away. After we left the hospital, my son took me out to breakfast...I was starving!

But then the real pain set in...I mega-dosed on pain meds when I got home and slept for 4 hours...woke up and still had pain, so I took a couple more pain pills. Yesterday, the pain was less and today, I feel like a new woman!!! I really hope it lasts.

I have so much work to do out in the yard this weekend...unless I can get the kids to help......

Have a wonderful weekend!!!

Hugz,
Michele

Way to Go Kris!!!

2009-05-21T13:59:00.004-05:00

Way to go Kris!!! We're proud to call you our American Idol!

Watching him sing with Keith Urban...well let's just say that I had to wipe the drool from my chin. My My My...those two are some mighty fine eye candy!!!

Hope everyone has a wonderful long weekend. I'm off work tomorrow...taking Glenn for his back shot...ya, what a pair we are huh?!!! Then hopefully, I can work on some projects this weekend in the garage. I feel the need to do some spray painting!!!

Big hugz,
Michele

Presents in the Mail!!!

2009-05-19T15:50:00.009-05:00

First things first...Mark and I had a great time at the Cubs game. Even though we ended up standing. We got there a little late...they were singing the national anthem, so ya, I guess we were just a tad late. Anyway, since we were in the bleachers, there's no assigned seating...so we were S.O.L. It kind of pissed me off because there must have been about 250 people that couldn't find seats...it was jam packed. Nothing like over selling!

It was so nice to reconnect with my son again...it was almost like a Mother's Day present, instead of his graduation present. He drove, we sang to his music...some I even liked! We stopped at Dunkin Donuts on the way back (3:00 in the afternoon!) because we both had a craving for it. They had a total of 6 donuts left and we bought them...they were hard, but oh well!

Okay, here are the pictures of the giveaway I won from Sher at Old Time Me Artist..aka Grinnin Gramma. Oh my gosh, she sent me the best stuff...THANK YOU SO MUCH SHER! These are tags that she made...

And this little chest with a drawer...and here's the saucer that broke and the little pitcher. You can't really even tell it broke...guess I did good with the glue!

Here's an up close view of the drawer...toooo cute!

And then....an adorable apron and apple towel....I'm just so lucky! Thank you again Sher!

Well, Cassie wants to have a garage sale this weekend. Not really ready and the garage is a total mess. Not sure if I can talk her into postponing it for a few weeks!

I had to go back to the hospital today because they found a spot on my mammogram. They did a more in-depth mammogram and then an ultrasound. The radiologist said they could see the spot on the mammogram today, but not the ultrasound and have no idea what it could be. So I have to go back again in 6 months to see if anything has changed. Sheesh, it really sucks getting old.

I have my first epidural shot next Wednesday, so hopefully that takes away alot of my pain. I hate taking pain medicine and the muscle relaxers they have me on don't really help all that much.

Hope everyone is having a great week.

Hugz,

Michele

Flea Market Finds

2009-05-15T14:25:00.007-05:00

First off...little Bear wanted to say "hi". He is so afraid of the camera, so I got right up in his face and took a picture. He then hid under Daddy's blanket for the rest of the night...dork!

Glenn took me to the flea market on Mother's Day and told me he would buy me whatever I wanted...huh???? But since it's only the start of the flea market season here, they didn't have all that much that caught my eye. I did find some keys and rhinestone bling. I'll make necklaces with the keys...whenever I can find the time to do so!

This necklace I will cut up for the beads...but I just can't believe that someone actually made a necklace out of pink and orange beads....that doesn't even look good together!!!

Then I scored this old vintage jewelry box. It's pretty beat up, but I'm going to paint the outside...

and rip out all the velvet in the inside and redo it. It even still has a working music box...I love it!!!

Mark and I are going to the Cubs game on Sunday...we're sitting in the bleachers, so it better not rain!!! There are so few times that I get to spend with my son...I can't wait!

I won a giveaway from Sher at Old Time Me Artist aka Grinnin Grandma...oh my gosh, I got the best loot!!! But one of the little saucers broke in shipping, so I'm going to attempt to glue it back together and then post pictures this weekend!

Enjoy your weekend everyone!!! I live for these weekends!

Hugz,

Michele

Prom Pictures

2009-05-11T08:37:00.005-05:00

I guess I have to come to the realization that my baby is not a baby anymore. He looked so handsome in his tux this weekend. He went to his girlfriend, Katie's prom. She looked so beautiful........

And together they were quite the couple!!! That had a wonderful time...he said they didn't get home until 4:30 am! Her mom let him spend the night at their house (on the couch!!!) because she lives about an hour away from us.

I can't believe he's graduating in a couple of weeks. It feels like just yesterday that I delivered him!!!

Hope everyone had a wonderful Mother's Day! My kids bought me one of those tomato plants that grows upside down. I'm so excited...maybe I won't kill this one!! Then Glenn and his brother cooked dinner for us...turkey and filet mignon's on the grill...it was yummy!

Have a great week everyone!

Hugz,

Michele

I'm Still His Biggest Fan!!!

2009-05-06T11:00:00.004-05:00

I absolutely cannot wait until he has an album out...I just love the way he sings!!! Personally, I think he sings better than "Adam". We'll see tonight who America thought deserves to go on to the top 3. Glenn and I were arguing last night...he thought Adam was better than Danny. Guess it's his opinion!!!! I voted probably 100 times...tried for more, but couldn't get through!

Sorry for the lack of posts lately, but it's been very busy here at work. I have my first epidural injection scheduled in a couple of weeks. Since being off the steriods (for only a week), my pain has come back, so the doc thinks this is the best course of treatment for now.

The next month is going to be very busy...Mark graduates on June 6 and his prom is this weekend. Can't wait to see him in a tux..I'm so used to just the jeans and a t-shirt! I can't believe my baby is done with high school and moving on to college...time sure flies! I think I need to slow down my life and start enjoying it more.

Hope everyone is having a great week.

Hugz,

Michele

My 2:09 Minutes of TV Time!

2009-04-27T07:43:00.004-05:00

Okay ladies...here's a link to my 2:09 minutes of TV time. This link will take you to Contact 6, then just click on the Acai Berry article and the video will start. I now know it's true, that TV adds 10 pounds...except in my case, it looks like it added 20 pounds...lol!

Anyway, I got an email on Friday from the company saying that the last of my refunds would be put into my account. We'll see...I just don't believe them!

Hope everyone had a great weekend. Ours was so wet and soggy...it rained non-stop both Saturday and Sunday. So much for working outside in my garden, plus I wanted to do some more spray painting, but that will just have to wait!

Hugz,

Michele

I'm So Very Lucky!!!

2009-04-22T13:50:00.006-05:00

Happy Administrative Assistant's Day to all out there in blogland! I have the very best bosses in the world. Tom (my main boss who is the president), sent me this bouquet of the most sweet smelling flowers. He is so thoughtful...it's no wonder why I totally love my job! He makes every day fun...even when we're ready to pull our hair out "busy"!

This little note was attached!

Then when I got into work this morning, these flowers were on my desk from Sharon. I really don't "technically" work for her anymore, but she's just the sweetest friend!

I was involved in a swap that Priscila at Casa Bella Chic hosted. It was a Circus Swap! I was paired with Bonnie at Scrap-n-Away and let me just tell you that she totally spoiled me! Look at the sweet gifts she sent me. I am totally in love with this little clown sucking his thumb!

I can't wait to put all my goodies out for display! Thanks so much Bonnie!

On a more serious note...I went for my MRI yesterday afternoon. Oh my...let me just tell you that the noise from that machine is horrible! They turned up the music, but I couldn't hear it over the knocking from the machine. I had one before on my brain...for all my migraines, but I'd forgotten how noisy they can be! I had one heck of a headache when I left there. I should hear in a couple of days from the doctor on what's going on with my back pains. Stay tuned!

Hugz,

Michele

One Word Meme

2009-04-21T13:25:00.005-05:00

I found this while visiting today and thought I'd post it!

1. Where is your cell phone? desk
2. Your significant other? sexy
3. Your hair? cute
4. Your daughter? beautiful
5. Your son? sweet
6. Your favorite thing? my-kids...and Glenn (I know...more than 1 word)
7. Your dream last night? none
8. Your favorite drink? diet 7up
9. Your goal? debt-free
10. The room you’re in? cube
11. Your church? great
12. Your fear? dying
13. Where do you want to be in 6 years? alive
14. Where were you last night? home
15. What you’re not? rich
16. Muffins? lemon
17. One of your wish list items? house
18. Where you grew up? Illinois
19. The last thing you did? work
20. What are you wearing? black
21. Your TV? flat
22. Your pets? Bear
23. Your computer? Dell
24. Your life? boring
25. Your mood? hurting
26. Missing someone? yes
27. Your car? loud
28. Something you’re not wearing? dress
29. Favorite store? thrift
30. Your summer? hot
31. Like(love) someone? yes
32. Your favorite color? pink
33. Last time you laughed? today
34. Last time you cried? today
35. Who will repost this? friends

That was kinda hard...lol!

Some of you have asked how my interview with the TV station went. Very well, in fact! They said it will air in about 2-3 weeks and they will send me a link, which I will share with everyone! The producer said that this company just started in January of this year, and it already has 2000 complaints against it. Sheesh...sounds to me like they should be shut down. But we'll see!

I went to the back doctor this morning...have to go back at 3:00 today for an MRI. He said there is almost no space between disk 5 and 6 and that's where my pain in coming from. He gave me presciptions for pain pills and muscle relaxers. He didn't talk about surgery (thank the Lord!), but did say he wanted to try epidural injections...yikes! But if it works, I'm game!

More updates tomorrow!

Hugz,
Michele

Meet the New Cook...

2009-04-20T09:04:00.009-05:00

Did I happen to mention how much I love having Cassie living back home? Well I LOVE IT! Yesterday, she made dinner for us...pizza from scratch! Now, I know this looks like alot of cheese...and...well, it is! But I love me some mozzarella cheese! So this...

and this....

turned into this scrumptious pan of THE BEST PIZZA I've ever tasted.

Ummmm....I had 4 pieces and then had to go back for another 2. OMG, it was so good!

Okay, I'll stop drooling now! We had a beautiful Saturday...warm, sunny and 70 degrees. Sunday, it rained all day and was cold. Now tomorrow it's supposed to snow...WHAT THE HECK!

I did get some spray painting done on Saturday. I forgot to take pictures of the before, but I'll get the good pics loaded tomorrow. I need to replenish my spray paint colors...all I could find was robin's egg blue and black. Oh how I've missed painting...I kept grabbing more stuff from my project box!

Cassie cut mine and Glenn's hair last night and waxed my eyebrows. I love not having to go to the beauty salon anymore!!! It's cheaper too! I just wish she could find a job at a salon...no one's hiring right now for a receptionist, which is the only thing she can do until she passes her state boards.

Mark heads back to school today after spring break. Ours is always the week after Easter...he went to Wisconsin Dells (the waterpark city of Wisconsin!) with his girlfriend over the weekend. I thought I would see him more last week since he wasn't in school...but NOPE!

I'm finally going to the doctor for my back tomorrow. I certainly hope he can give me some good pain pills because I honestly cannot deal with it anymore. My leg is starting to go numb now too...which just adds to everything!

Well, gotta get back to work. I'll be back tomorrow with pictures from the painting and from some of my thrift finds this weekend...yup, I was allowed to go again!

Hugz,

Michele

Easter Eggs

2009-04-13T14:53:00.007-05:00

I hope that everyone enjoyed their Easter Sunday. I spent the whole weekend with Cassie....which was so much fun. We went shopping on Saturday morning for the rest of the candy...then we both made up all the baskets. As old as the kids are (20 and 18), they will always get an Easter basket...with all their favorites in there!

I wanted to get an Easter lamb cake but couldn't find one anywhere. Cassie decided to make one and it turned out delish. Sorry no picture...but, um...it now doesn't have a butt!

This little guy didn't want to have his picture taken with his Easter egg...all he wanted was to eat it!

Then we colored eggs...I think they turned out fantastic and the best thing is.....

....they turned into these!!! I LOVE LOVE LOVE deviled eggs.

I made a pork tenderloin on the grill...oh my, it was so good...nice and juicy!

I can't believe how fast the weekend went...I so could have slept in this morning!

Have a great week everyone! I'll update tomorrow after the news team visits and does their story! Hope I don't look too fat on camera...I sure don't need the extra 10 pounds that the camera puts on...I have enough fat of my own...thank you very much!

Hugz,

Michele

Happy Easter........

2009-04-12T06:56:00.004-05:00

I wanted to pop in and wish each and every one of you a very HAPPY EASTER. Enjoy the day the Lord has given us.

Lots of hugz,

Michele

I'm Getting Even!!!

2009-04-10T11:40:00.003-05:00

Bear with me girls while I vent here....

Back in the middle of March, I ordered a diet supplement called Acai Berry. I saw this online and also noticed that it was advertised on Rachel Ray and Oprah. Well it was a free trial, so I thought what the heck. HA...you'd think after 51 years, I'd realize that nothing is ever free.

All I was supposed to pay was for shipping and I would receive the diet supplement and the detox pill. Little did I know, that the fine print states that you have 15 days to cancel your order or they start billing your credit card..or in my case, my debit card. First it was 69.95...that was for the detox pill; then 87.13....that was the diet supplement; then 29.95...that was for some sort of diet plan. Well, I've been on the phone with these jerks, only to have my blood pressure raised beyond any form of normalcy. "Oh yes, we'll refund your money ma'am, but did you read our terms and conditions? You called one day after your 15 days were up." Needless to say, I'm pissed.

So, we have this segment on our Fox news...called "Contact 6" where you go to them with problems with businesses, or in my case, scammers. They are coming over to my house on Tuesday to do an "on camera" interview with me. They've heard of others that have gotten scammed by this and want to help. Yipeee!!!

These idiots took $187 out of my checking account via my debit card before I smarten up and cancelled my card. But unfortunately, those deductions already made me overdrawn. Thankfully, my bank took back the overdraft fee and are in the process of giving me my money back until things can be resolved. I know that $187 isn't alot of money, but to me it is. That would have bought my groceries this weekend.

Okay...I'm done...and thank you for letting me vent.

On that note, I'll go back to work now! But PLEASE....don't order anything over the internet unless they take Paypal. I've learned my lesson the hard way!

Hugz,
Michele

I Love Swapping!!!

2009-04-07T08:21:00.005-05:00

I'll tell ya...blogland friends are just the absolute best! I entered two Easter swaps, and these girls just spoiled me sooooo much!

First...I was paired with Amanda...her blog is "Ups-A-Daisy". We were in Emilie's "Bunch of Scrap Easter Mini Swap". Well....Amanda just sent me the cutest things. I have seen these little green bunnies all over blogland and wanted to go to Pier 1 and find me some...and Amanda sent me one...yeah!!!! She had everything wrapped up so beautifully in this pink (my favorite color) basket.

If you click on the picture, you'll see she made me the cutest tussie with a birds nest on top. It's already hanging on my wall!!! The cone was (I say was, because it's gone now!) filled with yummy raspberry filled chocolate...OMG, I was in heaven! And a Cadbury bunny too...I hid that from my kids! She also made me these beautiful eggs...which are already displayed on my coffee table. Thanks so much Amanda!!!

The next swap was Heidi's "Very Vintage Easter Basket Swap". I was paired with Terry, who doesn't have a blog...maybe I'll have to work on that and try to convince her to join in all our daily fun! This was so fun...and Terry lives about a 1/2 hour from me...how cool is that!

Terry totally spoiled me too...I got this beautifully wrapped basket...filled to the brim!

I am totally in love with the egg tray with the little bunny sitting there! And the other white bunny has a white fluffy, soft tail...he's just too cute! Terry included some white cloth napkins tied with a pink bow and a silver spoon...adorable! She also sent me lilac hand lotion (smells devine!), a vintage bunny cookie cutter, and a pink ceramic egg...filled with chocolate and jelly beans..which, by the way, are now gone! She also made me the cutest pin with a button in the middle! Thank you so much Terry...I love everything!

So, I was home last Thursday and Friday because of my back. I was able to work from home, thank goodness, but the pain was unbearable! I tried to get into the doctor, but he had no openings...sheesh. I asked the girl, so what am I supposed to do about the pain? She said, well if it's that bad, go to the ER. Ya, that's where I want to spend the better part of my day. So I layed in bed with my laptop and took my pain pills. It's better now, but towards the end of the day, I'm in pain again and taking my pills. I hate relying on them...but I just don't have the money to go to PT...which I know the doctor will send me to. I hate getting old!

Did anyone watch the ACM awards on Sunday night? OMG, Carrie Underwood is such a beautiful girl...and that voice! But...let me tell you...she had the most hideous dress on during her song...it took up half the stage! Carrie, could you actually move in that thing? It would have been beautiful if it didn't have that train that was so BIG.

I'm so glad she won Entertainer of the Year...she is truly blessed!

Hope everyone is having a good week. Trying to get my house ready for Easter and the egg hunt. Can't believe my kids still want to hunt for their Easter baskets and eggs...secretly, I'm glad!

Hugz,

Michele

2009-04-01T11:36:00.004-05:00

Sorry I haven't posted for a few days. I spent the majority of the weekend, moving my craft room downstairs to the porch. Well, the crap went from Cassie's room, downstairs to the living room...and then I tried to consolidate and move stuff to the porch. Can I just say that I have too much crap??? Glenn and Cassie told me that I couldn't visit any thrift or craft stores for a few months...:( I did get most of the stuff moved, however, there are some boxes that I just don't know what to do with. Plus, it's sooooo cold out there...the porch isn't heated, and with temperatures in the 30's...it's going to be a few weeks before I'm working out there!!! What I've had to do is bring the things that I need into the kitchen and just work at the table there. Monday night I had frozen modge podge and paint. Had to let it thaw a alittle!

But Cassie is all moved in...it's so wonderful having her home again! She likes the school in Milwaukee, but misses her friends at the Green Bay school.

So don't know how many Idol fans there are out there...but I just love this guy!!!

He rocked it last night singing Rascal Flatts. He has the most awesome voice...I know he'll go far even if he doesn't win Idol!!!

I'm feelin kind of down in the dumps today...don't know if it's the weather - very dreary, rainy and cold here. And we're supposed to have snow again this weekend...we got 6 inches last Saturday..yuk!! Plus I think I did too much lifting over the weekend, because my back is totally out of whack..I've been taking so many pain pills just to be able to sit at my desk and work. And trying to get up and walk...ha, I feel like I'm a 100 year old lady!

At least it's Wednesday...only 2 more days to go!

Hugz y'all!

Michele

We have a Winner...and I Scored at the Thrift Store!

2009-03-25T10:32:00.016-05:00

First things first...the winner from my 100th post giveaway is....

Michelle from Treasure the Moment. Congrats girlfriend...could you email me your snail mail address? I have your package all put together....lots of goodies, that of course, I forgot to take a picture of. Sorry girls...one of the things was one of my altered bottles! If you haven't been over to visit Michelle...head on over...she has a great family..and...she's a MIDWESTERNER!

Glenn was doing the honors of pulling the winning name!

Please excuse his hair...can't for the life of me figure out what's going on up there...lol!

Now on to the goodies I got at my thrift stores last weekend. I love finding vintage rhinestone brooches or earrings...these were a steal!

This little platter I found at an estate sale...it will go in the shoppe later today!

These I got at Goodwill...they are handpainted and dated from 1955 and 1954. The picture doesn't do them justice...they're just beautiful. But alas, they will go in my shoppe too, because moving my craft room to the porch...there just isn't any more room!

These little bunnies are just adorable...I found them at the thrift store. I snatched them up real quick..and they're also in the shoppe!

I, like alot of you girls out there, love old vintage cards. I found these at an estate sale, along with the old book of poems!

More bling...and I just love this little jointed teddy bear...even if it is for Christmas!

I found this old vintage hat at an antique store that was going out of business. Everything was 50% off. The flowers are falling off..but that's okay, I'm taking them off anyway!

These plates I got at the antique store too...they are both handpainted. The rose one is just beautiful...but will go in the shoppe :(

Lastly, I found these great frames at a garage sale that the art center was having last Saturday. They'll get painted soon...when it warms up!

Sooooooo, Cassie and I cleaned up the porch to get it ready for all the craft crap that will be going out there. I keep saying that I'll go home after work and bring boxes downstairs...HA, that hasn't happened yet. I'm just so tired when I get home, that all I do is make dinner and fall into bed to watch TV. I hate not having any energy. But I am taking Friday off, so hopefully, I can get it all done. We're renting a truck and going up to pick up her big stuff on Saturday. I told Cassie that I should probably shampoo the carpet before she moves her stuff in there. She said "why"...I said, the carpet is covered with glitter...yup...GLITTER! All I got from her was an eye roll!!!

Well, guess I should get back to uploading items into my etsy shoppe...I mean, back to work!!!

Hugz,

Michele

New Things Added to my Etsy Shoppe!

2009-03-19T13:40:00.003-05:00

I finally got some new things added to my Etsy shoppe. I worked on some of my Easter houses/churches last night watching Idol. I am go glad that Michael didn't get voted off..I was a little shocked that he ended up in the bottom 2. My favorite, Danny, is still there..yipeee!

Good news....my little Cassie is moving back home!! Yup...back with the Momma! She'll be transferring to the Empire beauty school in Milwaukee...and live at home! I'm so happy...plus it will save us some money! The only bad thing...I have to pack up all my craft stuff that's in her room and move it back downstairs to the porch...yikes...that's alot of crap! I don't even know if it will fit in there! She said to me...mom, where will I sleep? That will always be her room no matter what! So guess what I'll be doing this weekend!!!? She'll move back next weekend!

It's almost Friday...doin the happy dance here!

Hugz,
Michele

Swap Presents and I Won a Giveaway!

2009-03-18T12:18:00.017-05:00

What a wonderful thing to come home from a crappy day at work...two, not just one, packages from the mailman!

First, I was paired with Lori, from Morning Glories and Moonflowers for the Charming Color Swap, hosted by Jessica at Kids Napping, I'm Scrappin. This was such a fun swap...we got to buy or make things in our swap partner's favorite color. Oh my gosh, Lori really spoiled me...in my favorite colors...pink and brown. I tried really hard to remember to take pictures before I opened everything...

I just love this necklace she made for me...the pendant is a domino..and the beads are pink! How cute is that...I wanted to wear it yesterday..but alas, I had green on. So I'm wearing it today!!! And Lori, I got so many compliments on it...

This is a package all tied up with a wonderful pink ribbon!

And here's what was inside...all these goodies.....

And I just went nuts over these blocks Lori made for me...

It's kind of hard to see with my camera, but it spells HOME on the front of the blocks. They already found a home on my shelf in the living room! Love love love them!

Thank you Lori so much for everything!

Now, how did this little stinker get in here. I think he was wanting to go outside for a walk...but opening my boxes was WAY more important!

Now for the presents I won from a giveaway. These are from Elizabeth at My Crafty Mess. I just love her blog...if you haven't been there, go now, she is so crafty!

See what I mean, I opened it before I remembered to take a picture!!!

Isn't this wrapped soo pretty?

And here was what was inside...it's a vintage table runner! Elizabeth, how did you know I needed one for my coffee table for spring..it's just adorable!

Elizabeth also made me a carrier for my lunches...and inside was a container filled with all kinds of fun stuff!!!

Look at all this stuff!!!

And here's the carrier...I've already used it for my lunches at work! Thanks so much Elizabeth...you knew me so well...down to my favorite colors!

The last couple of days have been so spring-like...we broke a record yesterday - 73 degrees! And then today, it's only supposed to get to 53 and tomorrow 40.....that's enough...I want SPRING every day!

Yippeee, it's Wednesday! Only two more days of work!

Hugz!

Michele

100th Post and Some Mighty FINE Treasure Hunting

2009-03-16T09:53:00.019-05:00

BEWARE...picture overload!!!

What a whirl wind last week was. I took a couple of days off and went up to Green Bay to spend time with Cassie. She highlighted my hair...oh my gosh...it turned out so good. This is the only picture she took...I know...it's not that great. And you really can't see the reddish brown highlights she put in.

So that was Wednesday...then I stayed overnight and went to some thrift and antique stores in the area. Well, forget the antique stores...they were WAY overpriced.

This a new version to my church...just in time for Easter! I love how it turned out. They'll be in my etsy shoppe soon!

These are cute little plastic houses...so vintage and in such great shape!

Okay...now y'all know that I just can't pass up any vintage ornaments! Even though I have a ton of them already. But these were 90% off..yup, I scored big time!

Some of these items will also be going in my shoppe. If it were up to Glenn, they all would be! He's just not any fun!

I just love this sunflower egg plate...and that little angel will be getting a painting as soon as it's warm enough for me to spray paint outside!

This one thrift store that I went to....everything in the store was 50-75% off. Needless to say, it took me 4 trips to get everything out to the car!

Isn't this just the cutest little bunny....ya, she's going in the shoppe!

I'm a sucker for their little faces...just too cute!

That little green bunny will be going in the shoppe too!

Oh, and I did decorate my house for Easter...got that done this weekend! I cleaned all day on Saturday...and I'm still not done!

These two little cherubs are so cute and will be getting a painting too!

Now on some other important items...this is my 100th post...yeahh!!!! I'll be doing a small giveaway...haven't decided what yet. Maybe one of my Easter churches..and some other items! Just leave me a post here if you'd like to be entered and I'll do the drawing on Friday of this week. I can't believe it's 100 posts already! I truly value all the friendships that I've made here...y'all are the best!

Have a great week!

Hugz,

Michele

Craft Room Challenge

2009-03-05T13:38:00.011-06:00

Deb (Garage Sale Gal) and Sher (Grinnin Grandma) are having a challenge with showing their craft rooms. Well...this morning I went in mine...and cringed...yikes, I need to clean this room up quick! But...here it is...in all it's glory!!!

First...this is my creating table...cluttered with glitter, paint, plates, beads and other odds and ends! I need to put some shelves or something up on this table, so I have room to work...duh, what a concept huh?!!!

Next up...this is my stash of vintage ornaments. I have so many...then why do I feel the need to buy more? I have no idea!

This was Cassie's old dresser...and I have crammed the drawers with all kinds of crap. On top is my iPod station..that I never use. Maybe I should think of moving that to a different room!!!

This is the corner by the closet. Instead of putting things INSIDE the closet, I just have it stacked in FRONT of the closet. I'm such a dork!

This is my shelving that has my ribbons, and misc. junk for my houses....as well as the houses I've been working on since before Christmas. Yup, I need to finish those...by next Christmas! Although, I did have an idea and decided to make some for Easter. See...my mind does work sometimes!

This is my shelves with most of my jewelry supplies. I have no idea what's in that black box...hmmmm, need to investigate that! The top shelf is all my misc. trees...and I have a lot of them!

Now....this mess...is all the misc. thrift store buys that I have no idea where to put. That old vintage sewing table is one that I was going to fix up...along with the 5 other ones in the garage. I'm so behind in my projects!

Well ladies...that's it. This used to be Cassie's room....ummmm, there would be no room for any type of bed in there in case she wants to come home and sleep! Oh well...add that on my list of "to-do's"!!!

It's almost the weekend....yippeee!!!

Hugz,

Michele

Good -bye Sweet Gracie

2009-03-04T15:30:00.003-06:00

This adorable little girl, Gracie, lost her battle with a congenial heart defect on Monday. She was just a few days shy of being a year old. I started following her blog from Kelly and Harper's blog.

Please keep her family in your prayers...Gracie now walks among the angels.

My Scrapping Weekend

2009-03-04T08:56:00.004-06:00

I was really looking forward to last weekend's scrapbooking party....and was a little disappointed in how things turned out. First, let me say, I'm not a BIG scrapbooker...it's not my favorite craft past time. But I knew I was behind in the kids books, so I thought, what the heck...I'd give it a try. Weeelllll....sitting in a chair for 8-12 hours is not my idea of a good time. I felt like a 90 year old woman...my back was really out of whack. Sure you can get up and walk around, but I was really bored. Then, this is the view out of our hotel room window....

It's a guy ice fishing...and ya'll know how much I LOVE to ice fish. We were right on a lake and guys were out there with 4-wheelers and shanty's doing something FAR more exciting than scrapbooking.

But I managed to get through the weekend...and I finished 12 pages of pictures. I did have Glenn pick me up earlier tho...it was supposed to end at 4:00, but at noon, I'd had enough!

Some of the women there were obsessed with scrapbooking...and I bought a couple of things, not a lot...and it cost me $97...that's just plain STUPID. I could have spent that money at the thrift store...LOL.

Hope everyone is having a good week...I can't believe it's Wednesday already!

Hugz,

Michele

Craft Projects

2009-02-25T13:42:00.007-06:00

I thought I'd show y'all a couple craft projects that I've been working on. I started this altered clipboard last summer....ya, umm, I finally dug it out last night and finished it! It's for my little Bear...I don't know where I'll hang it...maybe on the porch!

This little article makes me cry every time I read it. Click to enlarge it, but if you still can't read it, let me know and I'll send it to you.

That is little Bear when he was a puppy...so fluffy! He sorta blends in with the stuffed dog next to him..lol!

This is another of my altered bottles...I have so many that need to get made and then put in my etsy shoppe!

I found this little french book at the local thrift shop...I've been ripping pages out of for quite awhile now...I may need to look for another one! They come in handy!

I did take the plunge and joined Lollishops! I only signed up to upload 6 items, I just want to see if anything sells. We'll see!

Hope everyone is having a good week...it's warm (40 degrees) here today, but we're supposed to get rain, sleet and snow tomorrow...sheesh, I think I've had enough of this winter crap!

Hugz,

Michele

The Rest of My Swap Goodies

2009-02-21T13:27:00.000-06:00

I know I'm a little behind getting these pictures loaded...I've been having major problems with my camera. Hopefully...it's working now!

This first swap, I was paired with Kristin in the Winter Favorites Swap, run by Shanan. This was a particularly fun swap to participate in because we could send our favorite winter things.

I got so many awesome goodies....thanks Kristin!

Look at that cute little snowman...I just couldn't put him away...I love him!

Now this next swap, I was paired with Gina, from Cat Nap Inn Primitives, in the Vintage Heart Swap. OMG, she totally spoiled me! Look at this cute little doll she made me...it even has on real baby shoes! She's right at home on the back of my couch! She also made me the little 'be mine' heart and it smells devine!

Look at this cute little doll she made me...she even has real baby shoes on! She's right at home on the back of my couch. Gina also made me the little "be mine" heart....and it smells heavenly!

Look at all these goodies...I love it all! Can you see the socks at the top...they're just toooo cute...and I really need them too!

Gina made me some chocolates...ummm, they're gone now!

Look at this teacup pin cushion...Gina is so very talented...thank you Gina for everything...I love it all!

Well I'm off to brave the snow and run to the store. We have about 5-6 inches right now and it's still snowing...yuck, I'm so done with this white stuff!

Hope everyone has a great weekend!

Hugz,

Michele

New Do!

2009-02-20T15:27:00.004-06:00

Well it's not the greatest picture, but it will have to do until Cassie comes home next weekend! These are the girls that I'll be scrapbooking with for our "girls weekend". We were trying to figure out who was bringing what food and booze...yippee! I just love these two and can't wait for a fun filled weekend. I'm so behind on both kids books...Cassie is only done through 1st grade and I haven't even started Mark's yet...what a bad mom I am! Hopefully, working on it non-stop for a couple of days will get me further along!

On a side note, I'm coming up on my 100th post, so stay tuned for a fun giveaway!

Have a great weekend...if we don't get too much snow tomorrow (supposed to get 7-10 inches), I might hit some of the thrift stores!

Hugz,

Michele

A Drowned Rat

2009-02-18T15:06:00.005-06:00

I know how very cute my little Bear can be...but I found this picture when I was getting organized for my scrapbooking weekend with the girls. This is Bear in his most "unpopular" pose...getting a bath. He shakes and shivers like it's 40 below...plus his eyes pop out of his face, looking so pathetic. With his long hair, I absolutely hate brushing him...but he does looks so much better!

I finally got some of my vintage Christmas items uploaded to my Etsy shoppe...better late than never! I did find a lot of other items that need to get pictures taken and uploaded too...I just wish there was more time in the weekend...I never seem to have enough of it!

I did take pictures of my other swap goodies...just need to download them..along with pics of my hair. For some reason, I feel like I'm running on empty today...no energy left!

Hope everyone is having a good week.....by the way, if anyone else is watching Idol, Tatiana needs to go...she's annoying! Although, last night, she was rather subdued..weird. And Danny Gokey is my favorite...he's from Milwaukee...yea!!!! He wowed the judges with his "Hero" song last night.

Hugz,

Michele

Swap Goodies

2009-02-13T09:30:00.010-06:00

First...let's start off with my cutie pie little Bear. He dug himself into a pile of blankets on the couch..and this is all you saw of him..lol. He didn't even wake up when I was snappin away with the camera! I guess he was trying to keep me company when I was sick last week!!

Now for the goodies....I participated in a "Be My Vintage Valentine" swap that Jen from Rosey Little Things hosted. I was paired up with Missy and boy, did she spoil me! Look at these presents I got.

Is this not the most adorable towel....I don't even want to use because it's just toooo cute!

This is the valentine candy box that she decorated for me along with a card...

....and here's what was on the inside...all kinds of bits and baubles that I can use in my projects!

She made me this swag...with "X" and "O"...too cute! And of course, the candy that's in the picture...ummm...is already gone!

I was in 2 other swaps, but still have pictures to take and will post them this weekend.

I spent the day with Cassie yesterday in Green Bay. My hair turned out so beautiful..but of course, we haven't taken a picture yet. I'll have her do that this weekend too! She got an A+ on my hair color and cut! Now, she's all done with the classroom and will be on the floor taking clients until she graduates in September. All the girls that are in her class want only her to do their hair...they say she's the BEST! I'm so proud of her...I even got teary eyed yesterday when her teacher said that she was made to be a cosmetologist....that this job was meant for her! My baby is growing up!

Hope everyone has a great Valentine's Day....I'm sure we won't be doing anything special!

Hugz,

Michele

Back but not 100%

2009-02-11T08:04:00.006-06:00

Well, at least I'm back amongst the living...LOL. I haven't been this sick since I don't know when. This bug really zapped everything out of me. I went back to the doctor yesterday for a re-check and she said my lungs still don't sound like they should. She had put me on steriods to open up my lungs....but....I couldn't take the "horse sized" pills. I'm tellin ya...these pills were huge! So she gave me a script yesterday for a liquid...hopefully, that will work. I'm still having a difficult time sleeping at night...as soon as I lay down, I start coughing. Did you know that it's hard sleeping sitting up???!!!

Anyway, I did have enough energy on Monday night and I cleaned my craft room...oh my gosh, I didn't know I had that much stuff!!! I have so many projects sitting there waiting for me to finish!

I'll be going up to Green Bay tomorrow to spend the day with Cassie. She will be highlighting my hair and cutting it...for a grade in class. I can't wait...the gray is definitely showing through!

I'm also going for a weekend away with the girls to scrapbook. The last weekend of February, a couple of girls from work are going to this great hotel about an hour from here. The woman hosting has about 20-25 women who will get together in a room and scrapbook all weekend. I'm soooooo looking forward to this...I need some time away!

That's about all the updates on this end...I'm slowly making my way around to visiting everyone again!

Hugz,

Michele

I've Been Sparse Lately...

2009-02-06T08:18:00.003-06:00

UPDATE: The doctor is now adding bronchitis to the list! At least she gave me the inhalers and meds so I didn't have to pay for them. I'm still contagious so I can't go to work until Monday...guess it's back to the couch and my magazines!

Sorry ladies...I've been really bad about posting and visiting. I've been home from work since Wednesday...I finally went to the doctor and have strep and pluerisy. This cough and sore throat have really zapped everything out of me. I'm going back to the dr. today, because I don't feel any better. She put me on antibiotics and cough syrup, as well as an anti-inflammatory, but nothing is working. Hoping she'll have some answers this afternoon.

Take care all...and I hope to be back visiting you all soon.

Hugz,
Michele

Craft Project

2009-01-28T16:22:00.003-06:00

I wanted to get a picture posted of my latest craft project. I found this old mirror at a garage sale this summer...it was an awful orange color, so I painted it white, and then added a bunch of vintage pearl beads...and voila! I saw a mirror like this in an antique store and it was priced at $48. I was like...ummm, I don't have that kind of money, but I really wanted the mirror. I think with the glue, paint and beads I had laying around my craft room, it probably cost me about $4. Now....that's my kind of antique!!!

Hugz...hope y'all are staying warm!

Michele

Swap Goodies

2009-01-27T10:12:00.008-06:00

Priscila over at Casabellachic was hostess for the Vintage Valentine Swap where I was paired with Noelle and just look at all the goodies she sent me...I was flabbergasted!!! I have such a hard time taking pictures of the "before", because I can't wait to see all the crafty pretties!

Look at how beautiful everything is wrapped....

I love this little poem on the heart...it's just too cute!

OMG....look at how generous Noelle was...I had to shoo Cassie away from the hot chocolate and the socks...she is soooo my child! Noelle made me a beautiful heart banner...I'll take another picture when it's hung up in the kitchen...I need to find some nails first!

This is already hanging up...just gorgeous!

Thank you sooooo much Noelle...I absolutely love everything! And thank you Priscila for hosting...this was so much fun!

I was involved in 3 swaps for Valentine's Day...I love creating things for others. Now that these are complete, I can focus on replenishing my etsy shoppe...making more houses and uploading some of the items that I bought over the holidays at my thrift stores!

Hope everyone is having a great week. It's bitter cold here again....I seriously need to consider moving to a warmer state!

Hugz,

Michele

A Year Older!

2009-01-22T11:10:00.003-06:00

I hate getting older...but unfortunately we don't have a choice in the matter..lol! Yes, today I'm the ripe old age of '51'....damn, I used to think that 51 was so far away and I would never be THAT old...ha!

Nothing great planned...I'll probably end up cooking like always tonight!

Have a great day all!

Hugz,

Michele

New Pic of My Little Girl!

2009-01-18T19:28:00.003-06:00

Well my little Cassie went back to her blonde hair...I definitely like it better than the dark! I took this picture today...she was playing around with Bear. Notice he's got his mukluk's on...he actually does leave them on!

I didn't go thrifting yesterday, like I planned...my car still isn't starting. Glenn thinks it's the battery and I really don't have the money for a new one until I get paid. I'm lost without a car...

I did get into the craft room today for a little while. Worked on some things for my swaps and a few more houses. I just had an order for 3 of them, so that only leaves 1 more on my etsy site. I also worked on a mirror re-do that's almost done...I'll post pics in a few days..I think it turned out pretty good!

Well, I'm off to watch the rest of the football game...I'm rootin for the Baltimore Ravens! I'm really happy that the Cardinals won earlier!

Hope everyone has a great week!

Hugz,

Michele

I'm Baaaaack!

2009-01-15T09:19:00.005-06:00

I know I've been a bad blogger these days...thank you to all that were worried and checked up on me. What great friends I have here in blogland. I have been feeling a little bit better, but still go through some pains if I'm standing or walking for any length of time. Even the doctor can't figure out what's going on....'sigh'..

I have been incredibly busy at work lately...and that was when I could usually find the time to catch up on all my blog reading. With my boss getting promoted, we've moved to a new building and then I've picked up working for a few more VP's. Oh well...I love my job, so I'm not complaining...too much!

I really wish I could find the energy to get back in my craft room...I have so many Valentine ideas swimming around in my head. The last couple of days I tell myself that when I get home, I WILL CRAFT. Ha...I sit down and watch Idol...which is one of my favorite shows...and then I'm done for the night.

This week it's been the deep freeze here in Wisconsin....-10 and WITH the windchill, it's -40...brrrrr! We're supposed to warm up this weekend....to around 20...WOW!

Take care all...and I think I might go thrifting this weekend...I'm having withdrawals!

Hugz,

Michele

Missing You All!

2009-01-06T19:04:00.002-06:00

I'm sorry girls that I haven't posted lately. This stomach mess really takes everything out of me. The last couple of days at work have been so busy...my boss got a promotion and that means more work for me...which is actually okay..I love being busy! But I get home and I'm just wiped out. The pains really haven't gone away all that much, so all I've been doin in laying on the couch! I get up...visit a few blogs and then lay back down.

Hopefully, by the weekend, things should be better. I need to get back in to see the doctor this week...maybe these antibiotics aren't helping...who knows!

Hugz,
Michele

Happy New Year!

2009-01-01T09:07:00.003-06:00

Wishing everyone a VERY happy and healthy New Year! I am so blessed to have made such wonderful friends here in blogland...thank you all for your friendship and kindness!

Today is a great day to snuggle on the couch and watch all the college bowl games on TV. Actually, I've been watching them the entire week now....Glenn thinks I'm totally crazy, and maybe I am...lol!

Hugz ~

Michele

Prayers Needed Please!

2008-12-31T08:15:00.004-06:00

Well ladies, it's my turn to ask for prayers. I went to the doctor yesterday because of some severe pains I was having in the lower left part of my stomach. She diagnosed me with Diverticulitis. She wanted me to have a cat scan just to be sure....ahhhh no, there was no way I could drink the dye stuff. It was supposed to taste like lemonade...I took one sip and lost everything....it was the most horrible tasting thing EVER. So, she prescribed me 2 antibiotics that will hopefully work....it's either that, or if it doesn't get better....surgery. I'm really hoping these drugs work, because I don't have the money for surgery right now. I basically feel fine, it's just that sometimes these pains are so bad, that even laying down doesn't help.

So if you could all say a quick prayer for me that will make all this go away, I would sure appreciate it.

On a more happier note...I was going to take Glenn to dinner tonight at a place called "The Melting Pot"...it's a fondue restaurant. He took me there last year...omg, it has the best food ever! Well, since it's the end of the year, he will most likely have to work overtime tonight to get everything shipped out. So, we cancelled and will probably just go to Lonestar or another steak place. Then home, so we're not on the road when all the drunks are.

Hope everyone has a safe New Year's Eve....and tomorrow are all the bowl games...I love college football!!!

Hugz,
Michele

Family Pics and Thrift Finds!

2008-12-29T06:59:00.012-06:00

First, I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas. Mine was relaxing, but lonely. Cassie was with her boyfriend and Mark was working. I so miss the days when they were little and the house was so lively....guess I'll just be waiting for grandkids!!!

The day after Christmas, Cassie and I went to Chili's for lunch...then we called Mark and he met us there. Here's my girl....she's so cute!

Here's the three of us...first time if a long time we have a pic of all of us together!

I went to some of my thrift stores before Christmas and all of holiday items were 1/2 price...I scored!!!

I remember these ornaments from growing up....they were plastic and unbreakable!

I totally fell in love with this little angel...I might leave her out all year.

This little guy had a broken wheel on his tricycle, but I fixed it...he's soooo cute!

Now for my BIG score....I got these six Putz houses for.......drum roll please......1.25...yup! And they're in perfect condition!

Now the weather in Wisconsin has been changing daily....and when you live here you get used to it!!! On Christmas Eve, it snowed and the flakes were so HUGE...click on the picture so you can see!

Then, this past weekend, it warmed up and was rainy and foggy...so all the snow is gone. Last week, I didn't know where to put it all when I plowed...now it's mud.

Then yesterday, it got cold again and the ground is frozen....sheesh!

This is my poor truck buried in the snow....it has an engine problem, so Glenn will have to work on it this summer. I really miss my truck...especially when it's snowing!

This is Lake Michigan last week...all icy and snowy....

This is Lake Michigan yesterday....with everything melting!

I'm really getting used to being home....I think I could get used to retirement!!! Not that it will happen any time soon, ya know!

Have a happy week everyone!

Hugz,

Michele

Christmas Wishes

2008-12-24T16:10:00.002-06:00

Merry Merry Christmas......from my house to yours!

Hugz,

Michele

Snow Pictures and a Recipe!

2008-12-21T13:30:00.011-06:00

First....the GREAT news...Mark got accepted at this college, University of Wisconsin, Parkside. It's located about a 1/2 mile from our house, so he'll live at home, instead of paying to live in a dorm. I'm so proud of him...guess he's not my little boy anymore!

Now for the recipe...Linda asked for the recipe and pictures from my Peanut Blossoms. Well, here it is...I had to make them again, because the kids devoured them last weekend! I always double the recipe too...!!!

PEANUT BLOSSOMS
Makes 48 cookies

1 3/4 cup flour
1 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup shortening (I use the sticks...so much easier)
1/2 cup peanut butter
1 egg
2 tbsp. milk
1 tsp vanilla
48 chocolate kisses

Combine all the ingredients except the chocolate kisses in large mixer bowl. Mix on lower speed until dough forms. One tip...spray the cup that you're putting the peanut butter in..it makes it easier to come out.

Here what it looks like all mixed!

Shape into balls...roll balls in sugar and place on ungreased cookie sheet.

Bake at 370 for 10 minutes. ...They'll look crinkley (is that a word).

Top each cookie immediately with candy. Press firmly around edges so cookie will crack.

That's it...yuuuummmmo!

So yesterday, after shopping, I stopped at a national park...Petrified Springs, that's right around the corner from our house. I took some pictures to show you how much snow we've gotten. We got over a foot on Friday....and then last night we got another 5 inches. Right now it's below zero and with the wind chill, it's -32. The snow is blowing so bad that it makes it almost impossible to snowplow...in 15 minutes it looks like you didn't do anything at all.

The park was just beautiful...and I just had to share the pictures with you.

The kids were sledding...it looked like so much fun....just not for a 50 year old, out of shape woman like me..lol!

These trees were like a picture postcard...gorgeous

I'm on vacation for the next 2 weeks...and with this weather, I'm so glad I don't have to drive to work!!!

Hope everyone is having a wonderful weekend. I'll be back tomorrow with some pictures from my thrift store stop yesterday!

Hugz,

Michele

Decorating Pictures

2008-12-15T11:04:00.009-06:00

I had the most relaxing weekend...I never even left the house! That hasn't happened in ages...stayed at home and either worked on projects or decorated the house.

Here's what I've been working on.....

I can't make these churches fast enough. Everyone here at work wanted one, so I have an assembly line going in my craft room...lol. I really love how they turned out.

Then as I was trying to organize the room, I remembered that I had this silver wreath (from the dollar store). Added ribbon, pink ornaments and a vintage earring...and voila!!! Cheap decorating I tell ya!

Now, this Santa I've had since I was 10....ummmm, that's 40 years...but I love him! Glenn says he's scary looking....guess maybe that means Glenn is a bad boy and never gets any presents! I think he's got the cutest face!

His body is getting kinda limp with age...aren't we all!

Now for the tree....here's my angel, except you can't see her face..sorry about that!

I just love my tree...it has so many memories!

And here's what I got from Jenn in the ornament swap. She's such a good shopper! The little Santa tin has cookie mix, sprinkles and a cookie cutter in there...too cute! I love all the stuff you sent Jenn....thank you so much!

I made peanut blossom cookies on Saturday....a double recipe and they're almost gone. Ya think the kids (including Glenn) like them???!!! I'm going to Walmart tonight to get the rest of the stuff to make fudge and Glenn's molasses cookies. Sheesh, he's spoiled!

Hope everyone is having a fun holiday season. And remember, Jesus is the reason for the season!

Hugz,

Michele

Case Solved

2008-12-12T05:25:00.002-06:00

I feel like such a dork.....but I finally know who my Ornament Swap buddy was...Jennifer! The person hosting it didn't pair people together...rather just gave them who THEIR partner was, so I misunderstood that part. I thought we had each other! Thanks detectives for helping me!!!!

Anyway, now that the case is solved, I'll post the pictures later on all the wonderful things that Jennifer sent me!

And I'll also post pictures of the tree that I put up and decorated last night...yup, I did it! And I'm so glad I did...it turned out beautiful!

Hugz everyone!

Michele

I Have a Dilemma

2008-12-11T07:55:00.004-06:00

Okay girls....I need your help desperately. Yesterday, I received a package from a girl named Jennifer. It seemed like it was a swap package, but it was from someone I don't know... Very confusing to say the least. Usually when I'm involved in a swap, I save the email with the person's name and address...and I also print out a copy that I keep in a folder. I don't have anything with this persons name and I don't know what to do. She got me some very nice gifts...so I'm thinking the only way to contact her is to write her a note and explain things. But she had my name and address, so she had to get it from someone. HELP!!!!

What would you ladies do...any thoughts?

I'm off again tomorrow....I absolutely need to grocery shop...my fridge and shelves are bare! I might attempt to put up the big tree...we'll see!

Hugz all...

Michele

Some Decorating is Done!

2008-12-08T10:23:00.007-06:00

I finally got enough energy to go down in the basement and bring up the Christmas decorations. Jeesh...I wonder when I got all this stuff! This house is definitely not big enough for everything. I'm seriously considering not putting up the big tree and using my little Charlie Brown tree instead. The kids were both okay with that...they're never home anyway.

I wanted to share with you a few of the areas that did get decorated this weekend. This is the TV in the living room...with just a few of the TON of snowmen that I've collected over the years!

This is the top shelf of my computer desk. Sorry it's so dark, but I love how it looks with the white lights!

This is my little telephone chair...

And this....is my kitchen table, where I've set up my village. Glenn said it looks cluttered, but I don't care. I love how it looks...I just wish I had room to leave it up all year!

That's it so far...decorating a new house is always difficult the first year! For some reason, I'm just not in the holiday spirit this year. Money is so tight and I usually have enough in my Christmas club to cover everyone's presents. Well, I didn't sign up for it this year because of finances....and now I wish I had! Oh well, live and learn!

Hope everyone has a great week!

Hugz,

Michele

My Little Baby...Isn't a Baby Anymore!

2008-12-04T14:38:00.002-06:00

From this little cutie.....

To this handsome guy...

Today, my little baby boy turned 18....I can't believe it, it seems like he was just a baby and now he's "legal"!!!

I love you my baby...yes, I will always call you that, because you'll always be my baby.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MARK!

Holiday Fun?

2008-12-04T12:56:00.006-06:00

Megan at Wandering DC had this on her blog, so thought I'd add my two cents too!!!

1.Wrapping paper or gift bags? Mostly wrapping paper, but if it's an odd size, I'll use a gift bag.

2.Real tree or Artificial? Artificial....growing up we always had a real tree, so that was a difficult switch for me. But it's soooooo much easier!

3.When do you put up the tree? Normally the day after Thanksgiving, but I'm really behind schedule this year...I haven't even taken the decoration out of the basement yet.

4.When do you take the tree down? Any time after New Year's.

5.Do you like Egg Nog? Nope...yuck.

6.Favorite gift received as a child? My Kissy doll...I still have her - she's sitting in my bedroom!

7.Hardest person to buy for? Glenn, but this year we're not exchanging gifts.

8.Easiest person to buy for? Cassie - oh my, I love shopping for her!

9.Do you have a nativity scene? Yes, I finally got a new one last year. The old one was painted by my ex-husband...so I gave that one to Cassie.

10.Mail or email Christmas cards? I don't do either...just no money for things like that. Plus, most of my relatives are gone...and my friends are here at work!

11.Worst Christmas gift you ever received? I don't think I've gotten a bad gift.

12.Favorite Christmas Movie? White Christmas...I even watch it in the summer!

13.When do you start shopping for Christmas? Usually in October.

14.Have you ever recycled a Christmas present? Nope.

15.Favorite thing to eat at Christmas and favorite Christmas dessert? We have a tradition from when my kids were little. We would go to the German Deli and get lunch meat and that's what we would have on Christmas Eve...on German kaiser rolls...mmmmm. I really hope I can fit it in the budget this year. Favorite dessert is the cakes and cookies from the German Bakery.

16.Lights on the tree? Clear lights.

17.Favorite Christmas song? White Christmas (love that Bing!).

18.Travel at Christmas or stay home? Stay home.

19.Can you name all of Santa's reindeer's? Of course...I've read Rudolph to my kids so many times and we always sing the song too.

20.Angel on the tree top or a star? Angel.

21.Open the presents Christmas Eve or morning? Christmas Eve...now that the kids are older. We used to do it in the morning because Santa came the night before.

22.Most annoying thing about this time of the year? When kids (not mine tho) think it's all about the material things....it's about Jesus...he's the reason!

23.Favorite ornament theme or color? I have a ton of snowman ornaments that I collect. Also, all the ones that my kids have made or bought for me...I will treasure those forever.

24.Handmade ornaments or store bought? See #23...but I love handmade ornaments!

25.What do you want for Christmas this year? Nothing really...just to be out of debt and be able to pay my bills?

Feel free to put this on your blog too...I love reading all the answers!

Hope everyone is having a great week. I'm off tomorrow and I hope I can get some decorating done!

Hugz,

Michele

I'm a Little Behind!

2008-12-02T14:25:00.005-06:00

I'm a little behind these in posting these days. Work has been very busy and then I go home and disappear into my craft room where I'm painting and glittering away! I just got a bunch of new things uploaded in my etsy shoppe. Finally....I got my Christmas houses complete...here are the three that are in the shoppe!

This one is my favorite....just love that pink!

But I love this one too....lol!

I hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving. Ours wasn't bad, except my turkey would just not get done on the grill. First I ran out of juice...Glenn changed the propane tanks. Then my thermometer said the right temp, but it just wasn't cooked all the way. We put it back on the grill...I finally got pissed off and threw it in the oven. We ended up eating at 5:00 (a far cry from everything else being done at 2:00)!

I only went to one store on Black Friday....Best Buy to pick up DVD's for Mark. Everything else I've been buying online. I told the kids that it's going to be a very small Christmas this year. Just can't afford it. Told Glenn that him and I don't need to exchange gifts...there isn't anything that I need right at this moment!

Take care all...and sorry for the delay in posting!

Hugz,

Michele

Happy Thanksgiving!

2008-11-27T10:45:00.002-06:00

I wanted to wish everyone a VERY happy Thanksgiving. I'm so thankful for all my friends here in blogland. You're the very BEST!

Enjoy your families and eat lots of turkey! My house smells so good right now....but it's not from the turkey...that's cooking outside on the grill. But oh boy, that stuffing sure smells delish!

Hugz everyone!

Michele

Let it Snow!

2008-11-25T07:14:00.005-06:00

Sorry I haven't blogged in a couple of days. The weekend went by in a blurrr! I spent Saturday over at the old house packing up the last of the stuff and hauling it over to Goodwill. Glenn loaded our trailer with crap (yes, that's what it was...I didn't want any of it, but you know men) to bring to the new house. I still have to go in the crawl space and get out a few things...there's no electricity, so you have to do everything during the day or take a flashlight everywhere you go.

I'm on vacation this week...yippeee! Except yesterday, I got a nasty cold...felt like crap. I tried to give plasma yesterday but my protein count was high. He said I need to drink more water...yuck, I hate drinking water.

I tried to organize my craft room when I got some spurts of energy. Put up a shelf unit, which helps dramatically! There are so many storage boxes in there and I don't have a clue what's in them!

I received my package from my swap partner, Kellie at For the Love. We were paired in the Thanksgiving Mini Swap that Emilie at Bunch of Scrap put together. Oh my, Kellie...you outdid yourself....I love everything you sent me! First, here is the card she sent...isn't it cute!

She made the cutest "FALL" letters in picture frames. I LOVE IT! Then she sent...a pumpkin candy dish, a twig pumpkin with beautiful ribbons, acorn salt and pepper shakers, pumpkin spice scent, a holiday towel, a little purse filled with vanilla sprinkles body goodies, and....Lindt truffles....oh my, I'm in heaven! Thank you sooooo much Kellie!

This is what I woke up to yesterday morning...it was beautiful...but unexpected! I'm so glad I didn't have to drive to work....people can drive like idiots sometimes!

Today I'll be working on more projects....what I'd really love to do is crawl back in bed, but I know that won't be happening.

Have a great week everyone...I can't believe Thanksgiving is only 2 days away....mmmmm, I can smell that turkey now!

Hugz,

Michele

My Glitter Frenzy!!!

2008-11-20T10:32:00.009-06:00

Well, I know I've talked alot lately about my glitter frenzy and that it's all over the house...even on Bear!!! I wanted to show you what I've been doing. I finally took pictures so that I can upload the items into my etsy shoppe.

This one is my favorite...I just made it last night. There was fur flying everywhere, as well as glitter..lol. I found the ornaments at a thrift store and used a vintage rhinestone pin as the tree topper!!!

This is just an ornament that I painted pink and added glitter and an old rhinestone earring.

This is my cheap project....3 white doves that I found at the dollar store and I just added pink glitter....they turned out adorable!

A paper mache reindeer painted pink and glittered. I added a pink bow and an old rhinestone earring.

All of the following reindeer are wooden and I just painted and glittered them. Added a bow and again, an old rhinestone earring.

These are actually ornaments and I added an organza ribbon to hang them from the tree.

That's it for now....I have a couple more swaps that I need to package up tonight...so I'll be a glittering fool again!!!

Have a great day!

Hugz,

Michele

Swap Gifts!

2008-11-18T12:12:00.010-06:00

After a crappy day yesterday at work, I came home to find not one, but two swap gifts had arrived. The first one is from Carrie at Wonderfully Sew Knit. We were partners for the Vintage Pink Christmas Swap that Jen at Rosey Little Things hosted for us. Well......Carrie certainly outdid herself!!! Everything was wrapped so cute in pink tissue paper and tied with a white ribbon. She even used pink bubble wrap so nothing would break!!!

I even had to take two pictures because there were so many gifts!!!

Here's her cute little card....it's so adorable!

Now, mind you, Carrie and I exchanged what we liked and didn't like...but she soooooo got everything right on! She made me some adorable ornaments, as well as a snowman pillow (Bear thought that gift was for him!!). There's warm and comfy socks (I already wore them to bed last night.....no being romantic for me when it's 20 degrees outside). And did I mention I love glitter...she sent me pink glitter....yippeeee, I'm doin the happy dance!

Then there were snowman salt and pepper shakers, a snowman bank, and a snowman mug that I will be usin for hot chocolate... I did forget to take a picture of a beautiful vintage table cloth...but that was because I already put it on a table..hehehehe! Thank you Carrie.....sooooo much!

Then....here's my gifts from my swap partner in the Aqua and Red Swap that Selena at Apron Thrift Girl hosted. I was partnered with Terri at Grace Notes and she sent me so many wonderful red and aqua treasures! She had them wrapped up so beautifully!

This was a very fun and different swap in that everything had to be either red or aqua! She included tea in a red wicker tray with an aqua hankie, a journal, a candle holder with glass container inside, red and aqua jelly beans, a beautiful red bracelet in an aqua velvet pouch, lotion, a scrubby (which comes at the perfect time, because mine is on it's last leg!), and a neat index file system by Martha!!! Thank you so much Terri!!!

I soooooo love participating in swaps....I have a few more to get done before Christmas! It's so much fun shopping for people....as well as opening fun treasures!!!

Hugz,

Michele

My New Car!!!

2008-11-17T10:22:00.003-06:00

Isn't it pretty??? I bought it from a guy that I work with...it's only had one owner - his wife! It's a '92 Lexus...and in excellent condition. Not a bad price either - $2300!!! OMG, I haven't been home all weekend...just been out driving around! And....no kids will be driving my car...NOPE, this chick is not making that mistake twice in one lifetime!!!

Then I just had to take a picture of this...1.99 a gallon of gas..wow! And it even went down more this morning - it was 1.88 on the way to work!

I did visit a couple of my thrift stores this weekend. Everything is still in a pile in the living room, so I'll make it presentable and take a picture tonight. I was working on projects so there is pink glitter everywhere!!!

Hope everyone had a great weekend!

Hugz,

Michele

Excitement!

2008-11-13T11:28:00.005-06:00

Stop over at Tip Junkie...it's a Mom-preneur Shop-a-thon! I just added my Etsy shoppe to the list of other women entrepreneurs and am hoping to get a little more business for the holidays. Laurie has a wonderful blog with great tips and giveaways!

I hope to get the houses and bottles loaded tonight...I was too busy last night watching the CMA's....oh my, Keith Urban and Kenny Chesney were sooooooooo fine!!!

Hope everyone is having a great week!

Hugz,

Michele