Here We Go. . . Again

Three. Two.

2012-02-10T07:00:00.000-08:00

I think I am becoming converted. I think by scrapbooking digitally I have done more in these few weeks this year than in the whole last year. That feels nice.

I found some pictures from a time I did a radio commercial for work. That was such an interesting experience. I was amazed at the sound technician and the magic he could do.

White Balance

2012-02-08T07:00:00.000-08:00

I was out looking for something to photograph. I've run out of people to photograph since they are going away to school or being a social butterfly. That's a little bit saddening but I'm happy that they are making a life of their own.

So what does one photograph when the peeps are gone? I took a walk about in the back yard and found some bird of paradise blooming. It was overcast and somewhat warm out. We are expecting rain and it feels a little like the tropics on a cool day. If I have to have rain that is the way to have it.

I decided to leave the auto white balance on instead of changing it to cloudy. I am please with the color. True to what I was seeing.

Then I noticed a rock sitting on the garden soil. This rock has been hanging around for many years. I like this rock. I think it's pretty. Maybe I should give it a name and make it my pet rock. Remember those? I may be advertising my age with that comment. Ignore that .

I took a picture of this rock still using auto white balance because it worked so nicely with the bird of paradise. But my rock came out on the blue side. I changed the white balance to shade and my picture came out on the yellow side. I had to create a custom white balance to get it right.

Why is it that the auto white balance worked perfectly for one item but not on the other? Can anyone tell me? Inquiring minds want to know.

I'm going to take a leap and try to participate in Ali Edwards A Day in the Life today. Have you ever documented the hours of a day in your life? I wonder if mine will be very interesting. I'll let you know what I found out and how I did with it.

Link Love

2012-02-07T07:00:00.000-08:00

I ran across a couple blog posts this week that you may find interesting. You can click on the highlighted phrase or word for the link to the actual post.

Wikipedia

I am finding that I want to get back into the act of taking a picture a day. Only this time I think I want it to be a little more directed. I'm going to give it a try starting this week which, by the, feels really, really weird for someone with OCD. Can I just tell you that this goes so against my grain that it makes the little hairs on the back of my neck stand up and my back arch and my skin crawl? But my desire to get back to my camera love every day is making those things a little less controlling. I will be following prompts from Chantelle at fatmumslim.

At Get It Scrapped there are some fun ideas for scrapbooking one month at a time. This month is "By the Numbers" with some fun ideas for scrapbook pages, photos to take and miscellaneous things to track during February.

And lastly Ali Edwards lead me to a blog post about curiosity. Josh Hanagarne tells how he encourages his curiosity by carrying a notebook with him to write down questions that enter his mind and later the answers or further questions as they come. I think I've just learned another use for my journal. I'll have to tell you about the direction my journal is taking. I want to keep test running it for a bit longer before I give you a peek into it so maybe in the next month or two.

Oh Ya, Huh.

2012-02-06T07:00:00.000-08:00

I had fun experimenting with found items and some stamps and my poor attempt at sketching. I was about to throw a shopping bag from Target into the recycle can when I noticed the holiday design printed on the bag. I brought it back into the house and cut out some snowflakes which I then decoupaged to my journal page.

It started with an idea spawned by a rubber stamp of a row of houses. Seeing the stamp made me think of all the activity going on in homes in the anticipation of Christmas. Homes filled with packages being wrapped, visitors coming and going, smells of good things being baked in the kitchen.

On this day I happen to be listening to Handle's Messiah. One of my favorite songs is All we, like Sheep. That is how the sheep found themselves on a hillside and one lone one in the yard by the house.

The day before Christmas I didn't do much but write a quote I had heard. The ribbon strip got a little out of control in its thickness. I'm not a very good doodler so I haven't quite figured out how to control my pen. It was all the pen's fault. I had nothing to do with it. The pen took my hand to hold itself upright.

Same for the day after Christmas, just a quick write about the weather and add a cancelled Christmas postage stamp. I didn't want to get out of the habit of showing up in my art journal.

Blogger is being a stinker and uploaded this picture sideways. Can't figure out how to change it.

The week between Christmas and New Year I learned more about color washes and ink pads getting mixed up with water. Not a pretty picture this time around. I gotta get me some color ink pads that are water resistant.

I'm taking comfort in this quote from Albert Einstein. "Any who never made a mistake had never tried anything new." I've used all the items before just not in this new combination. All was good until that stamped images got wet with the color wash spray. Oh yeah, wash = water. Regular ink pad ink spreads nicely with water.

Have a great day playing in your creative zone.

Joy Dare

2012-02-05T07:00:00.000-08:00

Some gifts from the past week
1. A radiology doctor thrilled to see my mom in such optimum health.
2. Completing a scrapbook page.
3.Time to relax.
4.Thoughtful people with kind word.
5. Technology working smoothly to make my job go quickly.
6. The sweet melodic voice of my friend. I love listening to her sing.
7. A beautiful sunrise.
8. Being considered as a twin. We are in every way but birth.
9. A 100 Grand candy bar.
10. A clear night sky, pin hole peeks into heaven. Heaven's night lights.

What gifts did you find in your days last week?

A Glimpse

2012-02-04T07:00:00.000-08:00

This week one of my orchids bloomed for the very first time in its life. Several years ago My Sweet Pea gave me a perfect little orchid start. We had no idea what this orchid would grow up to be. This week it finally gave us a glimpse of what it was. I think it's beautiful! Very exotic looking.

Some thoughts going on in my brain.
1. Go ahead, there's some Dr. Pepper in the fridge.
2. Laundry still needs to be folded and put away. I'll get that soon!
3. Don't worry, be happy. Sometimes that's hard advice to take.
4. I think I'll spend a lot of time in the sun for the day.
5. Pretty much life is good, God is good, I'm good.
6. Want to go do lunch with me?
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to a quiet, relaxing evening and movie night with My Mann, My Sweet Pea and her beau, tomorrow my plans include going to church and I think this is super bowl Sunday but I wouldn't care about that!

Today's glimpse courtesy of Friday fill-ins

I hope you have a great week.

Love

2012-02-03T07:00:00.000-08:00

Journaling - When I think of when I am happiest it is a time that always involves family. I love being with my children and husband and when you get all four of us together the fun and joy is only multiplied. I love being with them.

This week I ~~learned~~ relearned a little lesson. Sometimes my head is a little thick like that. I bet yours gets it the first time around. Anyway, I had a digital layout almost completed about some of the people I love except for the last element I was trying to get placed right. Then I clicked the little red "x" at the top of a digital page of paper in order to close it.

All was good until I did that.

All of a sudden, poof! It was gone. Not only the paper, but the almost done layout that I had just spent a couple hours putting together. I still don't know how or why that happened, but it did. I don't get it.

I was so determined to get that page done before I went to bed so rather than be mad I just started all over again. This time I saved the layout after each step of the way. The layout didn't end up the same as the first one, but I like it better than I remembered the first one being. Maybe its a good thing that I lost the first layout. Or maybe that was because it was late and I still had to get ready for be so I could be up for work in six hours.

.

The contents

2012-02-02T07:00:00.000-08:00

Since I've stopped doing Project 365 I have been out of the habit keeping my eyes open to picture possibilities and ways to practice with my camera.

I've been trying to make a conscience effort, that is when I remember to pick up my camera, to work on the light element of the exposure triangle.

During the week I tried to find something to photograph. My Mann had left a box full of all kinds of metal thingies on the floor. The box had an accident and fell over spewing its contents every which way, yet one more time, so I'm told in an exasperated tone of voice.

The only available light was coming from the residue of an already set sun through the sliding glass door. I'm pleased with the lighting in the particular shot, even the way the light shines through the little pipe, dealy thing, but I am not happy with the composition. The little pipe, dealy thing is too centered and that bugs me. What do you think?

Scavenger Hunt

2012-01-31T07:00:00.000-08:00

The scavenger hunt that just keeps giving. You know Stacy Julian has said that "We scrap to live life twice". Well with this scavenger hunt has giving me joy so much more than that. Who knew that it would do that when I took a leap to join Rinda's call to join last summer? I received an album from Rinda that she had made ready for the pictures gathered of the items we collected. I have completed it (minus a tiny bit of writing but since it included some personal information I left it off for posting purposes) and I love it.

Here it is.

Cover Page

Added the rules and a list of the items on the scavenger hunt list

Our Team

Rinda, I can't tell you enough how much I have enjoyed this. Thank you for all you did to make it so much fun when I was not in a good spot of life.

Mess It Up

2012-01-30T07:00:00.000-08:00

I watched a video that Julie had done as part of our Creative Jumpstart 2012 showing how she jump starts her creativity. Basically she just plays with media and tools that she has with totally inhibition about making a mess of her project. In the video she started out making a tag and as she was doing it she expressed that she was liking the results. Then because she was liking it so well she said she was going to purposely mess it up so she could continue playing without fear of messing it up. Seeing how she purposely messed up her tag freaked me out. By the time she was done the tag turned out great.

Yikes! How does a person do that? What is it that allows someone to feel that way?

I messed up an art journal page. Not on purpose. It was salvaged, but I see the mistake in my mind even though it's covered up.

I was trying a new technique I had just learned. It didn't work out. I covered it up, but I'm frustrated that the pretty background is now under a strip of purple paper. I have such a difficult time messing things up and allowing that to not affect me.

It seems that so many of the artists I've been learning from use tags to play with and to get their creative mojo going. Maybe that is the solution. I am playing on the wrong playground. I am using my art journal instead of something on a small, non-permanent place. What do you think? Is that it?

Does anyone else have any suggestions of how get over the fear of messing up? Suggestions of how or where to play?

Joy Dare

2012-01-29T07:00:00.000-08:00

Some gifts from the week.

A perfectly beautiful, gorgeous, awesome day after a rain.

Beautiful sunrises.
A sweet visit with a co-worker about moms. She asked about mine and she just lost hers.
The soothing constant of the ocean's ebb and flow.
Hula hooping to my heart's content.

A helpful and thoughtful husband.

May you have a lovely weekend and a week full of creativity.

A Glimpse

2012-01-28T07:00:00.000-08:00

Can you believe the weather? First of the week was on the cold and rainy by the time the middle of the week was here I was outdoors enjoying the warmth, the sun, and the waves. I just love California weather.

A glimpse of some random thoughts from the week.
1. I listened to Caro Emerald. I have found an artist, new to me, from Denmark. I love, love, love her music.

2. I feel jiggly in the middle.

3. Hula hooping is something I love to do.

4. Wish I had thought to describe "Knowledge is knowing a tomato is a fruit. Wisdom is not putting it in a fruit salad."

5. The last thing I ate was a Fuji apple with peanut butter and Nuttella spread.

6. The most horrifying thing I witnessed was a near accident on the way home from work when a negligent driver was texting. The car on a two lane road first almost took out a bicyclist then drove into oncoming traffic. It was by the grace of God that people and vehicles were spared.

7. I got the biggest smile when my sister was telling me about Mom's radiology doctor appointment. He was so excited to see Mom. Excited to see he so well, so full of energy, and so free of pancreatic cancer. A Miracle. He told her when he first took her case to the medical panel they more or less told him he was crazy to give radiology, chemotherapy, and remove the spleen and a portion of an 81 year old woman's pancreas. He found a camera to take her picture so he could take it to the medical team. Mom is so funny. She said to the doctor that everyone tells her that pancreatic cancer is a killer cancer. He tells her, "It is!" That is why he was so thrilled to see her so fully recovered.

May God bless your day as He has blessed my week.

A Rock

2012-01-27T07:00:00.000-08:00

There is this rock that has a draw on me. Well, on most everyone who sees it. Last year a couple days before Valentine's day My Mann and I had a very romantic day at the big rock.

I had so many beautiful pictures and memories from that day and they were just sitting in my computer. I came across them while looking for ideas of what to scrapbook for this week. I'm glad I found them and did something with them.

I didn't get very fancy with the "paper" because I wanted to showcase the photos. It feels really odd to not have any journaling on this page. Just couldn't think of anything to say that would add to the photographs.

I hope you have a lovely day. It's the beginning of a weekend. I hope you have a great one and thanks for stopping by.

Pieces

2012-01-25T07:00:00.000-08:00

We pulled out a jigsaw puzzle Sunday to spend some time together. First order of business was to turn the pieces all right side up.

The sun goes down early at our place due to living on the east side of a mountain. The sun filtering through the windows cast a nice light on the pieces. A pleasant time with My Sweet Pea and My Mann.

Pleased with the results of this picture not being blown out in the light or too dark in the shadows.

A New Toy

2012-01-24T07:00:00.000-08:00

We did our regular Costco trek the other day. Buying groceries and all. While we were there we found some LED lights for the front of the house. The front of our house has been lightless for at least 5 or more years. Just waiting for the right light to come along.

Who would have thought we would find it at Costco? A grocery store.

You would have thought we brought home a new toy. My Mann just couldn't wait to see how it worked.

There was cardboard and plastic bags strewn all over the floor.

That is when I saw that the box had some toys in it for me, too. Cardboard.

Visions of Christy Tomlinson and Donna Downey started to dance in my head. I could see them ripping, cutting, and stenciling using simple cardboard.

I would never have thought about using the cardboard this way. Thanks Christy and Donna for sharing your ideas.

Have you had your eyes opened in one way or another by another person?

Art Journal

2012-01-23T07:00:00.000-08:00

Watching these artists while they're working is an amazing thing. As they work they'll talk through their thought process. Half the time it amazes me how they think up things to do? They might show something that inspired them and then create something from that inspiration. Their creations look very different from the original inspiration yet once you know where the inspirations was derived you can see it in their finished piece of work.

Joy Dare

2012-01-22T07:00:00.000-08:00

Some of the gifts I've been given this week.

Watching the sky change in beautiful colors and variations of clouds as the sun rises.

Being able to go to jury duty with My Mann.

Tulips, beautiful tulips from my sweet, Sweet Pea.

The taste of a sweet, juicy Fuji apple piled with peanut butter and Nutella Spread.

The three of us preparing dinner - My Sweet Pea and her beau.

My mom's curiosity and excitement about the places she'll be going on her up coming cruise.

What gifts did you notice during the week?

Have a great week, sweet one.

Snapshot Saturday

2012-01-21T07:00:00.000-08:00

It's amazing how quickly I have fallen out of the habit of taking pictures on a pretty regular basis. For almost two years I took at least a picture a day.

My camera isn't with me as much any more and I forget I have my phone camera. I did remember to take a picture of me at jury duty. Thank goodness I was thinking about and missing My Boy. Otherwise I may not have thought about sending him a text message with picture. When you're sitting at the courts beck and call, waiting for them to need you, with limited resources, there is a lot of time to think about how you can entertain yourself in an appropriate manner.

This time was pretty special because it is very rare to be able to do jury duty with your husband. I don't know how the cards landed in our favor but we got called in on the same day.

We were able to entertain each other, in an appropriate manner, of course, in between reading, scrapbooking, texting, sketching, writing, reading blogs, texting, eating, yawning, being bored. Can you tell by the end of the day how we felt?

How has your week been? Was there a nugget of good fortune that you had during the week? I'd love to hear about it.

Life

2012-01-20T07:00:00.000-08:00

My goodness! It's Friday already? Having Monday as a holiday then going to jury duty the following day had thrown my schedule off.

I have also had trouble staying awake lately. Weird. Anyway, I just wanted to share some beautiful flowers that My Sweet Pea surprised me with at work today.

She brought in some bright, pretty tulips.

Along with her pretty smile. Wishing you a lovely weekend.

Art Journal

2012-01-16T07:00:00.000-08:00

While taking the 30 Days in Your Journal class with Julie Balzer we did a week's worth of journaling with tags. I enjoyed this week because I was learning new things, but I also found this week very frustrating. It was good in the fact that I learned I could "experiment" on a small scale. It was frustrating because I found that the media and talent I had to work with was very limited. I have slowly started to build and or experiment with the few that I have. I got as far as two tags for the first two days of the week. After that I resorted to spritzing a Thank you card that came in the mail that week, some tags off a pair of jeans purchased that week, another from a bouquet of flowers given me, and last the pink rose flap from an envelope I saved. I've had that envelop for some time because I couldn't bear to throw that pretty flap away. I really like how it looks with the black and white polka dot smash tape. That makes me happy.

A pretty sad showing. Yet I did learn about taping things to create flaps, creating an overall patter with circles to add some interest, and that I really must learn how to use what I have and to make myself think out of the box.

I've heard more than once from Julie, Donna Downey, and other artists encouraging us to learn how to use the products you have. While watching these artist with their products occasionally they will say, "I wonder what would happen if I did this with this." They think of things that would never have occurred to me. It is my hope that one day I will grow into that world of wonder myself. That one day I will not be intimidated by the "norm". That I will grow and spread my wings and thoughts outside of the box I find myself trapped in at this time.

Do you find yourself frustrated over things that you know that you hold on to yet you know they hinder you? How do you get over that? How do you let go?

Joy Dare

2012-01-15T07:00:00.000-08:00

Some gifts from this past week.

1. Quiet time for pleasure reading.

2. Full moon white, bright on the horizon in the morning.

3. So grateful to those who share tips and help for Photoshop Elements on the web.

4. Rosy sunrise to brighten a cloudy morning.

5. Striking beauty of bare branches against a crystal blue sky.

6. Coming home to a beautifully clean home. My Sweet Pea must have been busy while I was at work.

Snapshot Saturday

2012-01-14T07:00:00.000-08:00

A couple months ago My Mann and his brother and sisters have been going through their family home. They have been selecting those items that were meaningful to them of their parents belongings. We were the recipients of a clock that his parents had for almost as long as we've been married.

During the week I was practing with the three elements of exposure. At the time the lighting was low because the sun was already down and I didn't have lights on in the house.

While focusing on the face of the clock the tick-tock of the pendulum kept time in my mind.   I wanted to capture the motion of the pendulum. I should have brought down my ISO and/or slowed down the shutter speed in order to get more of a smooth motion of the pendulum. Or maybe I do have that motion, but you can't see it because of the weight in the center of the swing. Naaa.

I heard Donna Downey encourage in the Creative Jump Start today to "make as many mistakes as you can because that is the way we learn."   I'm going to try and put myself out on the line more and just do in order to see what happens instead of letting perfectionism getting in the way.

I've discovered a mistake to learn from in the pictures above. Now, I've learned something. At the time I was taking picture I think I was more concerned about getting the weights in focus more than I was about the swing of the pendulum. Note to self: Think about any motion that may be happening in the frame and if it should be the focal point.

Have you made any mistakes to help you learn things this week?

Cake Decorating

2012-01-13T07:00:00.000-08:00

A long time ago. I mean a really, really long time ago. Like three years ago. Well, maybe not that long ago, but it was a long time ago. I ripped a page out of a Mary Engelbreit Magazine, Home Companion, because I liked it. It was my magazine so I could do things like that.

The amazing thing is that I still have that page. Even more amazing than that is that I knew, I really knew, where to find it again. That is a rare thing for me. I'm always losing things because I put them in a "safe place" then I can't remember where that safe place was. This time I remembered where that safe place was. I saved it thinking that maybe, just maybe, I might make a scrapbook page using the positioning of the pictures the same as they were on that particular page.

Supplies: Kit Ever After Krystall Hartley paper, Flergs Cupcake Cutie embellishments

I went to my file of hard copy inspiration. I found that ripped out page from years past. I turned it into a digital page. Scrapbook page #1. I didn't stray too far from the original inspiration, but I learned a lot with this page. I was able to figure out how to do rounded corners. I am so grateful for the many tutorials that people put out on the web for people like me to glean. Thank you sharing people.

How did you do this week? Did you learn something new? Did you get a step done towards a goal?

Project #3

2012-01-11T07:00:00.000-08:00

The last two years I have was involved in doing Project 365 - taking a picture a day. I enjoyed capturing and documenting with my camera so many things of daily life.

This year I want to get more intimate with my camera. I want to get to know how to get the picture I have in mind. I've been using manual mode exclusively on my camera for over a year now but the pictures I have taken I feel are still a hit a miss kind of experience.

For my third and final project this year I am going to work on one certain aspect of photography a week. This will also give me a chance to work in an online photography class I wasn't able to complete last year.

How are your projects going for the new year?

December Roundup

2012-01-10T07:00:00.000-08:00

It's roundup time.

Source

Just as roundups gather in cattle or horses in order to take care of the herds this roundup is a gathering of memories and events from life over the past month to get them recorded.

What books and/or magazines did I read this month? During the month of December I read Charles Dicken's A Christmas Carol. I've tried reading this book during December for a few years now. This time I was actually able to start and finish it by Christmas.

What movies, television shows, plays, etc. did I watch this month? Because of the holiday season there were lots of Christmas specials on Hallmark TV. It was nice watching shows like Christmas Angel, Santa Claus 3, and Nanny for Christmas. We also watched our video movies of The Muppet Christmas Carol. I like this time of year when there are so many good, uplifting movies offered on TV.

Between Christmas and New Years we went to see some of the new movies that are out. My Sweet Pea went with us to see Sherlock Holmes 2: A Game of Shadows. We really liked this movie. A very funny surprise at the end of the movie. My Mann and I saw Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol the next day and thoroughly enjoyed that as well. It was nice going to the theater. It's been some time since we've been.

What fun things did I do with my family and /or friends? There have been a lot of fun things done with family and friends during December mostly due to the nature of holiday gatherings.

There was the work holiday party and gift exchange. I brought the Cranberry Relish and cream cheese. It was a big hit and a much requested recipe.
My Mann and I had a game evening with My Boy and some of his friends where I learned how to play Hearts.
We all went to the family Christmas Eve party where we enjoyed family and the traditional tamale dinner.
After church Christmas day we went to My Mann's sister's house where we had a delicious ham dinner and visited with his family. I took Cranberry Relish and Cream Cheese to this dinner, again it was a hit. Even my nephew, a professional head chef, was impressed by it. Not an easy feat.
Going to the movies (Sherlock Holmes) with My Sweet Pea, then she treated us to dinner at TGIFriday
Going to the movies a second time with My Mann. This time Mission Impossible.
Spending a beautiful morning at the beach then enjoying a delicious bowl of clam chowder with a friend.

What gifts did I give and /or receive? This Christmas our list of gift recipients was very small.

I gave money to both kidlets as that was something that they both needed and wanted. Their yearly Christmas ornament was also one of their gifts as well as an Adelle CD for My Sweet Pea and a supply of Kraft Mac n Cheese and Top Ramen for My Boy to take with him to school. My mom I gave some cards that I made using photographs I had taken. I gave my sister-in-law a scrapbook kit and the book Collage Lab and my brother-in-law got a gift certificate for Ebay.

For Christmas I received gift certificates for a couple different stores and a date with My Sweet Pea. Along with the gifts certificates there was also cash and Bobbie Brown make-up.

What special or unusual purchases did I make? I think my special purchase is a scrapbook class for the next year. I am doing My Story. Brilliant with Linda Sattgast.

What illnesses or health concerns did I have? I didn't have any illness or health concerns for myself but we did have concerns for Zeba. We watched her progressively decline, daily, in health until a decision had to be made. I took her one day early in December to the vet then brought home her body to bury in the backyard. She brought us many happy times.

What were my accomplishments this month? I completed my first paid commission for senior pictures.

What were my disappointments this month? I wasn't able to get a family picture at the beach before My Boy left for school.

How did I do on my goals for the month? I got a Christmas picture postcard made and mailed out this year. That was a major deal and I haven't done this for several years. This year I felt a need to do so and I was able to complete it.

Anything else noteworthy to include? We started out on New Years Eve to take My Boy to school. We went as far as Salt Lake City where we brought in the New Year and stayed with My Mann's nephew.

Thank you Katie, the Scrapbook Lady for the Roundup questions and idea.

Art Journal

2012-01-09T07:00:00.000-08:00

Project #2 for 2012.

Going along with my one little word and theme of Grow I have begun growing out of my inhibitions about doing art; getting over the idea that I'm not artistic and that I can do this in my own way. Late last year I took a couple art journal classes. One with Christy Tomlinson, She had Three Hearts and the other with Julie Balzar, 30 Days in Your Journal.

Both of these classes have helped me to realize that there is no set way to art journal and that an art journal is what you make it. There is not right or wrong. There are no rules other than you enjoy it and have fun with it. With Christy's class I learned all about using different mediums and in Julie's class I learned about doing something every day, or just about everyday. Watching both of these women work in their journals as they taught was very enlightening to me as I've never watched in that intimate sort of way. I've only seen the finished product with no information of how or why it ended up that way. In these classes you saw and heard what was going on in their mind as they created. That alone was well worth the experience for me.

So, my desire for 2012 is to continue working and growing my process in my art journal at least 3-4 days a week.

This is the first one I did one week during my class with Julie. It was completed by following her exact process. The biggest eye opener for me that first week was how she did a little every day adding to the page. Since then I have been doing that with my journal and I have liked it. It felt less intimidating about creating and completing something from start to finish in one sitting.

Have you learned something that recently that has allowed you to make some progress? To move forward with something you have wanted to do?

Joy Dare Sunday

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

Early last year I read Ann Voskamp's book One Thousand Gifts. She took a dare from a friend to document little gifts she found in her daily in her life. By doing so she began to see the light and remove darkness that created a change in her life.
At that time I also began a list of my own. Writing one gift a day. This year I am taking Ann's Joy Dare of 1000 gifts for 2012.

Just a few of the gifts from my last week.

My curly hair. (Hair that I have been ironing out for quite some time)

A safe journey to Idaho.

Seeing my son's joy upon arriving at college.

Reservations made for a vacation with my mom. (This time last year we learned she had pancreatic cancer. Now she is cancer free. A miracle.)

Beautiful, blue, crisp skies over Utah.

Lovely, warm weather at home.

My husband's help when I pruned roses.

Are you up for taking the Joy Dare? Ann wrote about habit, "Small is always the leverage of large. It's one moment after the other, the small moments that turn a life. It's the small actions that can change a life." Make a habit of gratitude.
What gifts have come into your life this past week?

Have a beautiful, wonderful week, dear ones.

Snapshot Saturday

2012-01-07T07:00:00.000-08:00

For Snapshot Saturday I am sharing some snapshots I took with my cell phone earlier this week. These shots are from the day we dropped My Boy off at his new abode.

"I think you should live each day as if it were your last. That's why I don't have any clean clothes because really who wants to do laundry on the last day of their life."

After he signed in at the office we found the laundry area on our way to My Boy's apartment. I loved the color in the otherwise white environment. The quote? I wasn't sure how to take it. At first it made me laugh then I envisioned dingy underwear and bed linen; jeans that could stand up on their own, well you get the picture. Why give boys an excuse to put off doing their laundry?

I was very pleased with the apartment. It was warm and comfy. Clean with lots of light.

When I was going to school I had to share my room with someone else. Good thing we were great friends.

I'm also jealous of the kitchen. It's so big. But the refrigerator is so far away from the cooking triangle. I doubt boys would care about that. Did you catch the two refrigerators?

Weekends can be for slowing down, taking a break, and reminiscing over the past week. What do you have to reminisce about?

Have a great weekend, my lovelies.

How High?

2012-01-06T07:00:00.000-08:00

Marija Vukovic

I've been thinking about some projects to carry through 2012. That in it self is a little weird. I haven't had this kind of drive for a couple years. Instead I had been dealing with a lot of emotions, just trying to get by. This change feels nice.

Project #1:
It's been some time since I've done any scrapbooking in the traditional form, i.e. a 1 or 2 page lay-out. I feel that this blog has taken the place of my scrapbook for some time. Through this blogging process I've discovered that I enjoy this process, but I feel a budding urge to expand.

To grow.

I would like to try my hand at some digital scrapbooking. The pages I made during December for the gratitude challenge have whet my appetite for the digital.    I don't think I want to hold myself solely to digital, maybe I'll do some hybrid or all paper pages as well.

The project? A layout a week. Yikes. Saying that sounds a little scary.   They say if you shoot for the stars you'll reach the moon or is it the other way around. How does that saying go?

I'm hoping with the help of some digital templates or paper sketches it will be easier to put a page together. Do you think this goal is too high for someone who hasn't done, but maybe, a handful of pages the past year?

What do you think? Am I crazy? How do you decide how high you should set your goals?

Grow

2012-01-05T07:00:00.000-08:00

I have my word for the year 2012.

I've been thinking about what my focus will be and what plans I had for the following year. Where do I want to find myself twelve months from now?

I want to grow closer in my relationships. Over the past couple years I have done a fabulous job of ostracizing myself. I think I may be emotionally ready to knock down some walls.

I want to read more. I am finding less and less on TV worth watching yet it has a tendency to easily suck me in. My Mann uses it to wind down so when he's watching he likes having me sit next to him. I need to gain the willpower to cut off the TV early in the evening. It would be good for My Mann as well so he can get into bed earlier. We both get up very early on the weekdays.

I want to increase my skills in digital scrapbooking, photography, art journaling, and maybe the piano. You can probably tell I'm not fully committed to the piano.

As I thought about what I would like to do two words came to mind, nurture and grow. When I checked the definition for nurture I felt that I wasn't in the position to support or encourage; feed and protect; bring up; train; or educate. These were all things I was seeking. I wasn't in a position to nurture.

I looked up grow. I found my word. Grow: (v)to increase by natural development.

This year I hope to increase in various aspects of my life through natural development.

How about you? What are your hopes and dreams for this year? Do you choose a word or theme to focus on for the year?

He's So Excited

2012-01-03T07:00:00.000-08:00

We have deposited My Boy at his new abode. When we arrived and checked in he had a grin so wide that it filled his face. He repeatedly said how excited he was. After having pried ourselves from the crowded conditions we endured for a day and a half could the excitement be from that new found freedom? Nay, I'm sure it is the freedom he's feeling to be on his own and to be on the next step of his future.

It was even more cramped once you put two college students and their backpacks on the seats with them.

We joined many other families at the grocery store and local Wal-Mart, already showing signs of needing to be restocked,getting the last minute things for their new college students. While at the store stocking up on TP, laundry detergent, milk, cheese, etc. etc., his smile began to diminish a bit as he saw the cash register silently going ch-ching as each item was swiped. The he repeatedly commented on his ability to be on his own financially being a little scary.

It made it a little easier leaving him behind knowing that he is in a good place with a good roommate and lots of friends also nearby. His apartment is beautiful. Almost luxurious for student housing. He has his own room, desk, shares a large kitchen, two refrigerators, and large pantry.

He will use his free day tomorrow to walk around and get to know the campus. We on the other hand will be driving some more and using the day to continue our journey home.

How will you be using your day? Have a great one.

Ch-Ch-Changes

2012-01-02T07:00:00.000-08:00

We find ourselves with one day already past in the year 2012. It has been a pleasant first day - one that began and ended with setting off fireworks - far from my hometown. In a climate 40 degrees colder than my hometown climate. Quite a shock to my system. Why? you may ask. I've asked myself the same question because I would much prefer to be warm rather than freezing. But My Boy is moving on and I couldn't just send him off with a kiss a wave. My Mann and I are taking him to his new digs in Rexburg, Idaho where he will be continuing his education.

Because the drive isn't a quick one I've had a little time (in between listening to audio books) to think about the new year, where I would like to be and what changes I would like made a year from now.

I'm hoping that I'll be able to settle on more concrete plans for projects once we're back home. I think I've almost settled on the word I want to concentrate on for for the year. It's a toss up between two very similar words, but I can see already how much this word will affect my projects and choices for the year.

I'm am thinking about projects that I would like to work on for the year. They do not include Project 365 this year. During the last quarter of 2011 I quit doing a picture a day and I haven't felt any regrets over that. Before when I had fallen off the wagon I felt guilty. Not this time. That was a big clue that I am finally ready for a change. I'm ready to move on. This is a HUGE step for me after the last couple years of just getting by.

I've found a few links that talk about planning and making resolutions that you may like to read. A couple of them even offer free PDF downloads of planners and questions for review of 2011.

5 Steps to Making New Year's Resolutions from A Holy Experience
20 Questions for Reflecting on Your 2011 from Simple Mom who offers a PDF of 20 thought provoking questions.
When You Really Want to Wear New Habits from A Holy Experience where a free daily planner is offered.

Did you find that you had projects started last year that weren't finished? Was that because the project no longer fulfilled a function or did you not finish and feel guilty about it?

2012

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

Wishing you a Happy New Year.

Good-Bye, Hello

2011-12-31T07:00:00.000-08:00

About this time a year ago I couldn't wait for twenty-ten to be over. I had hopes for a better year. Twenty-eleven is now about over, but I'm feeling pretty content with the way this year has evolved. As I look back on all that has happened I see that I have a lot to be grateful for; the largest being the miraculous recovery of my mother from Pancreatic cancer.

Almost Never Clever

Soon twenty-twelve will be upon us. Over the last week I have found a couple calendars perfect for the new year. The first is from Nat at Almost Never Clever. She has designed and offers a free download for a PDF picture calendar template. You can easily add your own 3x4 pictures to make this desk calendar your own.

The other calendar is a 12 month Gratitude Calendar from Ann Voskamp at A Holy Experience. The Year of Grace consist of a page a month with a beautiful picture and quote. There are numbered lines for each day of that month to write a gift a day. She offers this as a free download gift this year.

How do you feel about the going and coming of a new year?

Gospel

2011-12-30T07:00:00.000-08:00


By Liz Swindle

"But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart."

We come to the close of our Christmas story as well as the end of our 10 lists of gratitude challenge. For our last list we will be closing with those things pertaining to the Gospel of Jesus Christ that we are grateful for.

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That Christ came to earth to dwell, teach, and show us the way.

That His life was an example that I can strive to follow.

That He obeyed His Father and glorified Him. Another example of how I should be.

That He lived a sinless life.

That He atoned for the sins of mankind.

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That He ransomed my soul from justice and offers mercy.

That He conquered death so I could have eternal life.

That He offers the gift of repentance.

That He offers forgiveness.

That the Gospel gives my life hope.

How about you? Do you feel or believe something strongly that you are grateful for?

Food

2011-12-29T07:00:00.000-08:00

By Del Parson

"And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child."

One of the large parts of the holidays is food. I know I have been enjoying more than my far share of delicious, wonderful food. Today our gratitude challenge is all about food. List 10 that you're grateful for.

Mexican food is at the top of my list. bring on the enchiladas, tacos, burritos, taquitos, my aunts homemade tamales, and the frijoles and rice. Although the hot and spicy chili and salsa I can do with minimally. I didn't get that part of the Mexican taste buds.

Chocolate. The darker the chocloate the better. If the dark chocolate has cherries, caramel, or nuts added that's perfect.

Fruits. I am so grateful that there are so many delicious types of fruit. Watermelons, berries, mangos, and all kinds of apples.

Waffles. I'm grateful for our waffle traditions. They are more than just breakfast for us.

Pumpkin Pie. Pumpkin pie means Thanksgiving no matter when I have it. I'm glad we have Thanksgiving.

Cranberry Salsa. I am grateful for Cranberry salsa this year. I made it so many times to take to parties and it was a huge success every time. I'm glad that people enjoyed eating it. I know I did.

Chocolate Scotcheroos. Chocolate Scotcheroos remind me of my mom. She would always make these delectable goodies for the holidays.

Salads. I am grateful for green salads and that I am able to taste and enjoy them.

Trader Joe's Apple Cider. So grateful for this delicious cider. It is perfect for these cool evenings.

Water. I know that water is technically not a food but I'm grateful for it anyway. I drink a lot of this clear liquid. It is so good for you and very refreshing with ice and a squeeze of lemon.

Do you have some foods you are grateful for? What might they be and why?

Have a wonderful day, my lovelies.

Inventions

2011-12-28T07:00:00.000-08:00

By Jon McNaughton

"And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger."

There are so many things we take for granted that use in our daily life. I read the scripture and wonder how quickly did the shepherds arrive at the manger? They came with haste meaning that they didn't dawdle or waste time deciding if they should or shouldn't go. But how did they get there? How times have changed since then?

For today's gratitude challenge think about those inventions you are grateful for.

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Electricity. How the world changed with the inventions harnessing electricity.

The printing press. Don't know what life would be like without the written word or the word of God available to even the most humble of people.

Photography. How far this has come from the pinhole cameras.

Computers. This, too, is an invention that has come a long way. It was once huge computers in specially cooled clean rooms that were capable of just doing simple computations to now with computers that can do a plethora of things all at once and can be held in the palm of our hands.

Airplanes. An invention that had been dreamed of for such a long time to now be a major form of transportation of people all around the world.

Automobiles. Another major form of transportation that carries us to and fro. Really the only time we think about them is when they don't function properly.

The telegraph which was the precursor to the telephone. And where would we be without our cellular phones?

The concave and convex lenses which led to eyeglasses, microscopes, and telescopes.

Medical technology. All the scientific inventions that have prolonged life cured some diseases, and eased pain and suffering. I have witnessed and benefited from much of this technology and research.

Glass. Probably the oldest invention on my list, but still one that has gone through many modern changes. I can't imagine life without glass cooking wear, drinking glasses, windows, light bulbs, etc. Not only is it functional it is also beautiful.
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What inventions could you not live without?

Today

2011-12-27T07:00:00.000-08:00

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"And it came to pass, as the angles were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made know unto us."

The day after Christmas in the past has been a let down, but this year there is still a good spirit around. Did you feel it, too?

Today our gratitude challenge is to list 10 things you're grateful about today (actually my list is from the day after Christmas).

Beautiful 70 degree weather.

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Having said "I'm sorry." Amazing that two little words can be so healing.

For the joy of watching the quail be brave and come close enough to get some of the broken bread I was throwing to them in the backyard.

For being able to take my time this morning to get ready, eat breakfast, or crawl back into bed.

For enjoying time with My Mann and Sweet Pea at the movies and dinner.

For My Boy, who spent time helping me download music to my phone.

For a super bargain for helping the store discover there was an error in the displayed price of the holiday wrap storage holder. A $14 dollar value for $5. Like a said a super bargain.

For My Mann's ability to fix things. Today he repaired the burned out electric igniter on the furnace.

My Sweet Pea treating her dad and me to dinner.

Having the whole family safe and happy (except for lame calls on the Laker game) in our home tonight.

I hope your day is a pleasant one.
Just a few more days left of the year. Are you thinking about goals, projects, a new word to focus on for 2012?

Nature Sings

2011-12-26T07:00:00.000-08:00

Source

" Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men."

I hope you all had a merry, pleasant, and joyous Christmas. I loved the opportunity Christmas gives us to gather around family and reconnect with cousins, second cousins, and aunts and uncles that we rarely see. It's so good to see everyone.

A line from a Christmas carol - Heaven and nature sing. Heaven and nature sing.

To continue our gratitude challenge today we will list 10 things we're grateful about nature. This one wasn't too difficult for me as I love nature. It was hard containing it to ten things.

The sun. I love the sun. The warmth. The light.

The rhythm of the waves and tides controlled by the moon.

Snowflakes. When you see the landscape blanketed in snow it's hard to remember that it is comprised of beautiful, individual flakes of frozen water droplets. These flakes have fallen and nestle together to create the drifted blanket and a hush in the air. It's beautiful to look at - not necessarily to be in.

The Stars. It's always a wonder to be to see the stars in the night sky and realized that the light I see from them now was emitted long, long, ago.

Gravity. What would be without gravity.

The beauty of a large bird that has caught an updraft and hovers and dips in it.

The ever changing colors of the seasons and the seasonal changes that come and go in wildlife.

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The variety of birds, fish, mammals, plants, and geologic formations.

The marvel of conception and birth.

The wonder of the universe and our miraculous positioned planet, which is able to sustain life and is just a speck in the vastness of it all. And God is mindful of us.

Wishing you, my lovelies, a simply perfect day.

Places

2011-12-25T07:00:00.000-08:00

Source

"And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, saying,"

Our challenge for today is places. I hadn't really thought about places I'm grateful for. Have you? this took some thought for me.

My home. I'm grateful for a place of refuge from the elements and the outside world.

The ocean. I love the ocean. It calms me, for that I am grateful.

My quiet space. So glad I have a place where I can just be quiet.

Libraries. Libraries are treasure troves.

My sister's home. Grateful that I can go there and feel completely at home.

My mom's home. Grateful its a place where I feel loved.

Italy. Grateful to have seen parts of Italy; the people, the beauty, the history, the food, the architecture, the art.

the town I live in

My dining room. I love my dining room and all the dinners, family together time we have had there.

Greece. Grateful to have seen parts of Greece. It's so beautiful.

What places are you grateful for?

Merry Christmas, my lovelies.

The Deceased

2011-12-24T07:00:00.000-08:00

Source

"And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes lying in a manger."

Yesterday we reflected on those people who are living. Today our grateful challenge is to list 10 deceased people we are grateful for.

My dad. He made life fun.

My Mann's dad and

My Mann's mom. I'm grateful for bringing up and raising their son to be the kind of man My Mann became.

My maternal grandmother and

My paternal grandmother. Both are converts to the gospel of Jesus Christ. I'm grateful they shared the gospel with their children.

My aunt Mary who was like a grandmother to me when my grandmother wasn't able. I'm grateful for her love.

Jesus who really isn't dead but he isn't living on the earth at this time. I'm grateful for all he has done

My elderly friend, Alice, who must have been a spunky person in her youth and had a great deal of stories and changes she saw in her life. She shared about the first time she saw a plane or saw bubble gum. I'm grateful I was able to know her.

Zeba. She isn't a people really but I'm grateful for the laughs and love she shared with us.

Who, that is now deceased. are you grateful for? Would your life be different if they had never been a part of it?

This is the evening we commemorate the Savior's birth. Merry Christmas Eve, my lovelies.

Living People

2011-12-23T07:00:00.000-08:00

Source

"For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord."

I had mentioned that I had read Ann Voskamp's One Thousand Gifts earlier this week. Well, I learned that there is now a One Thousand Gifts App to capture our gifts, count our blessings, and share the joy as it happens. Check it out for iPhone or Android. It's free!

Yesterday I expressed my opinion that it wasn't things, but relationships that brought happiness to our lives. Today we'll be spending some time thinking about those living people we're grateful for.

My Mann.
My Sweet Pea
My Boy
My mom
My sister
My brother
My co-worker, counselor to the students
My friend, that I miss because she no longer works with me
My Mann's big brother.
My mom's cancer doctor(s)

This was so difficult to limit the list to just 10 people. There really are so many more like brother and sister-in-laws, nephews, additional friends, and people that have affected my life.

Who are you grateful for in your life?

I prepared another 12x12 page for yesterday's gratitude list.

Material Possessions

2011-12-22T07:00:00.001-08:00

Source

"And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tiding of great joy, which shall be to all people."

I find it interesting that today's scripture is talking about tidings of great joy. There is nothing material in the news these shepherds were about to receive and how it would affect their lives.

Often we get caught up in the things that will bring us joy and happiness. I have found that it generally isn't in the material things that happiness is found. I think it lies more in the relationships we have with family, friends, and our God and His Son that bring us the most happiness and joy.

Having said that our Grateful prompt for today is List 10 Material Possessions you are grateful for.

My home, which is more like the house My Mann built. I also love that we can accommodate so many for things like Thanksgiving dinner.
My car. It functions, it handles well, it's roomy, and it takes me places.
My computer. Life was so different without a computer. It has opened whole new worlds to me.
My camera. It gives me an avenue to experiment artistically.
My hair clip. I use hair clips at least once daily. One hair clip in particular has an extra special meaning. When on a family reunion in 1999 I realized I left my clip at home and didn't have one with me. My nephew, then about 12 years old, while stopping to pick up some things at the store with his mother told her of my dilemma. Because of his thoughtfulness they bought a clip for me and I use it still even with it's now missing teeth.
Some special pieces of jewelry purchased on travels or given me by My Mann and My Sweet Pea.
My king size water bed. We are probably one of the very few people who own and still love our waterbed. I bought it just before I married 35 years ago.
My lambs wool blanket, especially now that the weather is colder. I'm just as bad as a child dragging my blankey all over the house with me. I wrap up in it while I'm working on projects, reading, or watching TV, etc.
My sewing machine. It gives me another avenue of creativity and functionality.
My cell phone. I love my cell phone. It's not an iPhone, but I love it just the same. It makes me happy.

I didn't realize that it would be so difficult to think of 10 material possessions I was grateful for. Maybe that's a good sign. We can only hope.

I took yesterday's prompt and made a 12x12 page out of it. I just used the my list of 10 from the post as the journaling for the page.
I hope you have a meaningful day as you contemplate those things you are grateful for. Please share if you feel inclined as I'd love to know what they are.

Physical Abilities

2011-12-21T07:00:00.000-08:00

By Carl Heinrich Bloch

" And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid."

This year I've worked a lot on being grateful. After reading Ann Voskamp's book One Thousand Gifts, I even kept a running list. That running list was helpful in those down and out days. I re-learned that gratitude is a choice. I could choose to focus on the things I didn't have and the things that didn't go right or I could focus on those things that I did have and the little moments that were good.

During the holiday season there is a lot to be grateful for even when things look pretty slim in the wallet. For instance, My Mann came home last Friday with a 32" flat screen TV he won in a drawing at the electrical supply house he uses. Something he has been wanting, pleading, and dreaming of for several years.

I realize that when I forget to be grateful I start taking things for granted. I don't want to be like that. I want to enjoy what I have been given and then share with others those things I do have.

I came across this prompt for creating a gratitude list of 100 items. For the next 10 days I'm going to take one prompt to focus on and possibly figure out a way to scrapbook each list. If I get to scrapbooking them or not I couldn't think of a better way to end out the year than Listing those things I'm grateful for. I'd love it if you joined me and if you would share your list of 10 for that day.

For our first list of 10:
1. List 10 physical abilities you're grateful for.

I'm grateful that I can:

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run, jump, walk, kneel, hula hoop, and dance.
see the beauty around me, color, the sea, the sun, and to read.
hear the sounds of children voices and laughter, songs of birds, the voices of my family members and friends who speak words of kindness and love.
that I have strong arms and able hands to type, write, carry loads, steady others, and hug.
balance my body which gives me the ability to walk, along with so many other things that I don't consciously realize require balance.
do gardening, to be out tending plants.
do cooking or baking with ease, giving me the ability to care for others.
do housework and try to beautify my little corner in the world.
drive a vehicle which allows me to be employed, taxi my family to various places, and run errands.
breathe unlabored and live another day.

While that barely scratches the surface I hope I remember them and remember to use those abilities to help another.

What physical abilities are you grateful for?

Have a wonderful day.

Merry Christmas

2011-12-20T07:00:00.000-08:00

By Joseph Brickey

"And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night."

I still writing and addressing Christmas cards and getting the ready to mail out. Obviously at this late date they will be arriving after Christmas. Hopefully by New Years. This is our Christmas postcard.

I feel like such a jerk because I used a Christmas card template and forgot to save where I found it to give credit to that lovely person who freely gave it. I downloaded it before my computer crashed so I can't retrace it even if I tried. I am so so sorry. If you recognize it and know where it came from please let me know so I can give proper credit.

Turkey Cranberry Casserole

2011-12-19T07:00:00.000-08:00

By Walter Rane

"And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn."

After Thanksgiving I used leftover turkey to make a Turkey Cranberry Casserole to put into the freezer for later. I'm glad I did so it was easy to pull out for dinner during this hectic time.

Earlier I had sauted some onion in butter to mix with bread crumbs and made a stuffing with a little help from Mrs. Cubison's boxed stuffing. You could also use leftover stuffing if you any. Once made, I spread the stuffing on the bottom of a 9x13 baking dish.

Then I cut up some leftover turkey until I had 4 cups of pieces and spread it over the top of the stuffing.

Basically the next step is to prepare a white sauce with a some thyme, poultry seasoning, and parsley added. Pour all this delicious sauce over the turkey and it's almost done.

The last layer is the canned cranberry sauce. The recipe calls for a 12 ounce can but I used two cans of cranberry sauce since we like it. If you make this recipe you can do whatever you want. Speaking of doing whatever you want, I noticed that is what I did for this layer. Not only by doubling the amount but also when I put it on top. I noticed that the recipe says to bake the casserole naked first then add the cranberry sauce. I did the opposite this time and froze it with the sauce already on it before baking. It didn't hurt and tasted the same. (Recipes are only guidelines.)

At this point you can heat it up for dinner till it looks hot and bubbly or freeze it for a later date. Either way it's yummy and easy to make.

You can serve it up with something more than canned green beans but on this particular night I was lucky to get a can open let alone anything else. Lucky for me that is all I had to do, and heat up an already made casserole, to serve a substantial meal.

Dear awesome you, with all the fun and activities happening, and I think I see some leftover turkey in your future, I thought you might like to have a simple recipe to use. Here it is.

Turkey Cranberry Casserole
4 cups bread crumbs

1 chopped onion
1/2 cup butter
4 cups cooked turkey cut into pieces
12 ounces canned Cranberry sauce

Sauce:
1/4 cup + 2 tablespoons butter
1/4 cup + 2 tablespoons flour
3 Cups milk
1 1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1/2 teaspoon thyme
1/2 teaspoon poultry seasoning
1/4 cup chopped parsley

1. Saute onion in butter, mix in bread crumbs, spread in 9" x 13" baking dish,
2. Layer turkey pieces over bread crumbs
3. To make sauce, in saucepan, melt butter. Blend in flour; gradually add milk. Cook until mixture boils and thickens, stirring constantly. Season with salt, pepper, thyme, poultry seasoning and parsley.
4. Pour sauce over turkey and bread crumbs.
5. Bake in a 350 degree oven for 20 minutes. Remove from oven. Top with can of cranberry sauce. Bake 10 minutes more.

Walking

2011-12-18T07:00:00.000-08:00

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" And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered."

Thoughtful Sunday

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"We need not visit the Holy Land to feel him close to us. We need not walk by the shores of Galilee or among the Judean hill to walk where Jesus walked.

In a very real sense, all can walk where Jesus walked when with his words on our lips, his spirit in our hearts, and his teachings in our lives, we journey through mortality..."

Source

As you and I walk the pathway Jesus walked, let us listen for the sound of sandaled feet. Let us reach out for the Carpenter's hand. Then we shall come to know him." Thomas S. Monson Ensign, May 1974

Art Journal

2011-12-17T07:00:00.000-08:00

Source

"To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child."

Yesterday I shared one of the projects my mind has been conjuring for the new year. Another idea my brain has been jumbling over and over is the idea of doing a weekly art journal.

Created through instruction from the Julie Balzer.

I took a class with Julie Balzer called 30 Days in your Art Journal. I was intrigued by other art journals I'd seen online. I began pinning art journal pictures on my Pinterest board months and months ago wishing I could figure out how to tackle one. Then I found out about the 30 Days class. It opened up a new world to me.

So my brain has been thinking about making a weekly project of at least 3-4 entries a week.

Hmmm. That makes two ideas for the new year. Now, to think a bit more on how this will come together for next year.

What do you think?

Time

2011-12-16T07:00:00.001-08:00

"And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:)"

I have completed one of my two huge deadlines. This one being a personal business deadline. I can now be home and think about things I would like to do and to feel more Christmasy. Yipee!

I began my liberation by doing some design work for our Christmas cards. My mind also being free of the deadline went on its own liberated journey and it's thinking about things to do in 2012. Part of that is coming from inspiration from Karen Grunberg at karenika.com.

Karen is one organized cookie. I love her thought process and she shares those thoughts and ideas so readily on her blog. I signed up for her Big Picture Class Reclaiming Time to learn a little more of how she thinks.

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Because of this inspiration and the freedom to think a little more of things other than deadlines I'm feeling like I want to wear time out instead of the other way around.

Thoughts for 2012. Do you have any playing out in your minds? One thing my brain came up with last night was to do some sort of 52 week photography thing. I've also been thinking abut about a new word - don't have one yet. Also, been thinking of where I want to go with my memory keeping.

How about you what do you want to accomplish in 2012 and how are you thinking of do that? Do you have an idea for your new word? Do you have any year long projects running through your head?

Wishing you all a spectacular day. I know I will because it's Friday. It's a tolerable 50 degrees this morning instead of the 37 we've had to bear every morning this week. And I saw, hugged, and teased my BOTH my kidlets before leaving for work this morning (a rarity). Signs of a good day! Wishing one for you.

Cranberry Salsa

2011-12-15T07:00:00.000-08:00

By Joseph Brickey

"And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city."

Last Christmas eve my aunt brought an appetizer that I thought of all year. I remembered that it was delicious, that it was made with strange ingredients. Well, not that the ingredients were strange because they are common foods.

It's the combinations that was so odd to me. It was made with cranberries and cream cheese - not a strange combination but add to that green onions and cilantro. I've waited all year to for the fresh cranberries to be in season again.

The appetizer is a Cranberry Salsa. The hardest part is to wait for the flavors to blend before eating it.

You cut and throw the cranberries into the food processor. You can chop the green onions and cilantro very fine or send them through the food processor as well.

Blend these chopped, processed ingredients with sugar and lemon juice. Then add some chopped pecans and try to keep your hands out of it. Put it in the fridge and sit for about four hours.

At the time of eating pour the salsa over cream cheese and enjoy with some crackers. It. Is. So. Good!

Here is the recipe I followed from my aunt.

Cranberry Salsa Dip with Cream Cheese
1 (12 oz bag) or 3 cups fresh cranberries, rinsed and drained
1/4 C minced green onions
1/2 C sugar
1/4 C fresh cilantro leaves, minced
2 tablespoons fresh-squeezed lemon juice
2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese
1/2 C. pecans, chopped

Rinse and drain cranberries, (discarding all that are soft or bruised). Place them in a food processor; pulse until finely chopped but not mushy.

Place crushed cranberries in a bowl; mix together with onions, sugar, cilantro leaves, and lemon juice. Place in a covered container and refrigerate at least 4 hours so flavors develop.

On a serving plate, place cream cheese; cover with the salsa and serve with crackers.

Makes 1 1/2 cups salsa.

Bon appetit, my lovelies.

2012 Senior

2011-12-14T07:00:00.000-08:00

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" And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed."

I had the awesome opportunity to take some senior pictures not too long ago of a young lady and her horse.

If you would like to see more I have posted them on my photography blog.

2012 To Do

2011-12-13T07:00:00.000-08:00

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"And Mary said, Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according to they word. And the angel departed from her.

I'm looking forward with much anticipation for the end of the week. I then have some time off for Christmas break. I know it isn't wise to wish the time to go faster, but looking forward to having some crucial deadlines met so I can fully enjoy the season, friends, and do it without those deadlines nagging at the back of the brain.

There are several things that I would like to do during the next year. I'm hoping I can use this time off to formulate a plan to implement them into daily life. I'm so antsy to do them that I can hardly stand it. That doesn't help with these deadline issues. Just wish they would go away.   What was that? Did you hear something?

How about you? Do you have ideas starting on your 2012 To Do List?

Did You Know?

2011-12-12T07:00:00.000-08:00

"For with God nothing shall be impossible."

Yesterday the youth choir sang in our sacrament meeting three beautiful Christmas carols. One of those was Mary Did You Know.

This carol is hauntingly beautiful, but the rendition these young men and young women sang really filled my heart. So much so that the tune, the title, the words, the message have played over and over in my mind.

I searched out a YouTube rendition that I felt does close to the same justice of the one I heard in church yesterday.

Merry Christmas, my Lovlies. Have a wonderful day.

Weekend through the Lens

2011-12-11T07:00:00.000-08:00

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"And, behold, they cousin Elisabeth, she hath also conceived a son in her old age: and this is the sixth month with her, who was called barren."

This week, past, has been pretty rough. I've been working under a deadline at work and come home too exhausted to do much of anything. I do have a recipe I want to post sometime later this week for a really yummy appetizer.

For now here are some weekend captures through the lens.

I don't know who these girls were. I loved watching them so enthralled with the water spouts.

Have a beautiful week my lovelies. Hope you find a few moments to enjoy the moment just like the two girls in the water.

10 Traditions

2011-12-10T05:36:00.000-08:00

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"And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that the holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God."

Today is the 10th. You know what that means? I'm participating with Shimelle in 10 Things. For this month I'll be listing 10 of my memorable traditions. Tradition. First, what makes a tradition a tradition? The dictionary definition says a tradition is the handing down of statements. beliefs, legends, customs, information, etc., from generation to generation, especially by word of mouth or by practice.

According to the above definition I can feel totally at ease listing things I would do with my family as a little girl or things I did with my family when the children were younger, but do not currently practice at this time. The sweet memories those practices left in my mind sweet memories that traditions can have.

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1. Collecting mistletoe (will have to share this memory later this month.

2. Family parties and gatherings Tamales on Christmas Eve

3. Tamales on Christmas Eve. This tradition begins before Christmas in with my aunts and some of my uncles getting together at a tamale makeing party. We then enjoy tamales as a large family gathering on Christmas Eve.

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4. Scotcheroos. These are the best, hands down, addictive, cookie bars around. My mom would put these together to add to the cookie tray we gave to the neighbors. After I married I started making them but only at Christmas time because they are so good I'd eat them all myself and I can't afford to pack on all those calories all year round. Hence, they have become a Christmas tradition for me. I found the same recipe I've used for years and my mom has used on line at the Kellogg's Rice Krispies website. My mom probably got the recipe of the cereal box years and years ago.

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5. Going on a drive to see the Christmas lights. Just the other night as I was driving by myself around town I found myself thinking oooh, aaah as I saw the decorated houses and streets. I was transported back to childhood, sitting in the back seat with nose pressed against the window oohing and aaahing at the decorated houses down Santa clause lane and candy cane lane. The streets weren't really those names but during Christmas the homes on those streets are Santa Claus, candy cane, snowman, etc, themed in their decorations.

6. Decorating the Christmas tree. This is a quiet, peaceful, special memory for me. As I decorate the tree I remember so many trees from years past. Some with thin strips of tinsel that was placed one tiny strand at a time over each branch. I loved the look of them once they were done. As a kid it just seemed magical. Also the placing of the ornaments brings back so many memories as just about each ornament has a special meaning.

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7. Nativities. What would Christmas be without the nativity. I collect nativity ornaments and nativity sets to display at Christmas time.

8. A new ornament each year for the kidlets. I decided before we had children to purchase them one new ornament each year for them so once they leave and have their own houses they will have ornaments to place on their Christmas trees.

9. Watching and, some years, reading The Christmas Carol. This tradition I've already mentioned.

10. Sometimes joining a Handel's Messiah sing-a-long, but if not singing it we definitely have to listen to the CD.

How about you? What traditions play a part in your Christmas holiday and memories?

Remember to check out the other 10 Things.

The Christmas Carol

2011-12-09T07:00:00.000-08:00

By Warner Sallman

"Then said Mary unto the angel, How shall this be, seeing I know not a man?"

One of the nice things about the Christmas season are all the Christmas specials and movies on TV.

Very soon after Thanksgiving, even that very night after all our Thanksgiving guests have gone, I will put The Muppet Christmas Carol on to watch. I just love Rizzo the rat because he makes me laugh, but most of all the message found in the story of the Christmas Carol, to love and care for one another all year round. is what draws me to it every time.

Marley, Scrooge's long time dead partner in business, comes back to Scrooge in hopes to warn him that no amount of "regret can make amends for one life's opportunities misused!" and that Scrooge still has a chance and hope of escaping the same fate he is in.

Earlier in the story two gentlemen come in to Scrooge's business asking for donations for the poor. Scrooge answers that there are debtor's prisons for this purpose. Appalled, these two gentlemen answer that he should know that many people would rather die than go to a debtor's prison. " 'it's not my business,' Scrooge returned. It's enough for a man to understand his own business."

Having this mindset is what Marley is trying to warn Scrooge about. "'Business!' cried the ghost...'Mankind was my business. The common welfare was my business; charity, mercy, forebearance, and benevolence were all my business. The dealings of my trade were but a drop of water in the comprehensive ocean of my business.'"

The message: "Mankind is our business." We are here to help each other, to share burdens and joy with one another. Isn't that what we would like to receive if we needed help or solace. That is what makes life fulfilling and hearts joyful for both the giver and recipient.

May your heart be full of joy.

Happy Birthday

2011-12-08T07:00:00.000-08:00

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"And he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end."

Today is My Mann's birthday. Happy birthday to the man that would slay dragons for me. My knight in shining armor. Happy birthday.

2+1=?

2011-12-07T07:00:00.000-08:00

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"He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest: and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David:"

Having had so many experiences with crashing computers gives me a complex. I know I'm hard on cameras, what with spilling my in flight drinks on them, having waves crash on them as I'm trying to get that perfect picture. But, now I getting a complex about my computers. I've had several at home and at work crash on me. My first laptop still works but I left it behind in the cupboard because the screen top has a broken hinge and needs very delicate handling.

Last week my green apple laptop crashed. Thankfully I have learned some lessons. I only lost the last two months worth of pictures, digital downloads, and documents. Of those I think I have lost about half permanently, the other half I think I can retrieve from somewhere again if I can remember what it was I had.

The lessons I am learning are to keep certain emails in the cloud (I no longer use Outlook. I just check my email online.) and to back-up files. The most recent lesson learned? Back-up more frequently.

Since my Green Apple crashed I needed a computer to finish reviewing pictures and post a senior portrait job I had done and I needed to do it ASAP. God loves me. I was able to take care of the immediate needs for the job on my old, fragile laptop while I waited for my newer one to reinstall the operating system and then the slow process of reinstalling all my software.

I now have both laptops sitting side by side as I keep an eye on the one and work off the other. This afternoon as I was working back and forth between the two I got carried away before I knew it I was trying to move the cursor from one to the other. The only problem with that was that the cursor kept bumping into the side of the screen and going no further. It just wouldn't cross the space to the other computer's screen. At first I was baffled, unable to comprehend why it wouldn't glide easily over. Bump. Bump. Bump. No matter how many times I attempted to make it cross over it just wouldn't go. Then my mind became conscience of what I was doing. I bet you figured this out long before I said much in my explanation.

You see, I have dual screens working off my work laptop. I find it very convenient to spread out all my paperwork on the desk table and that carries over to my work on the computer. The more I can spread out the better and easier for me to work. Being home, having both screens on, side by side, my mind just filled in what it thought was true. Two screens together + One cursor = ability to cross over and work on both screens. Not!

How quickly we become accustomed to things. It sure would be nice to have dual screens here at home. But, right now, I'm happy just to have a computer that is working.

Got Lights?

2011-12-06T07:00:00.000-08:00

"And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name Jesus."

It's time that time of year again. My Boy loves getting the house decked out for Christmas. He has taken the honor of putting up the lights, setting up the tree and putting on the lights. This year we ran into a little snag. Not all the lights were cooperative. I enjoy seeing my two boys together.

Because time passes and lives change this may be our last year that he will be putting up lights at this house. I'm savoring the moments.

Weather Outside is Frightful

2011-12-05T07:00:00.000-08:00

By Walter Rane

"And the angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favour with God."

What kind of weather means Christmas to you? In my space of the world many years we spend a pleasant day in short sleeves and cotton. Other times long sleeves are needed and still other years turtlenecks and sweaters may be the wardrobe of the day.

To me, it feels more like Christmas when the weather has a nip in the air.

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I'm not crazy about the cold. Actually, I abhor it, but I think snow makes Christmas magical. The lights sparkle brighter. The snow crystals reflect the color of Christmas lights further. Maybe I've been brainwashed by all those Christmas movies. No, I witnessed that beauty with my own eyes one year as we traveled between Christmas and New Years through Vale ski resort in Colorado one blizzardy night. It is beautiful...and it was cold!

But the weather isn't what makes Christmas Christmas. It's the love we feel for family and friends. It's the love we feel because God loved us first. It's the love we show towards others on the road, the store, the post office, at work, at school, and anywhere we may be.

Merry Christmas no matter what your weather may be.

Christmas Cards

2011-12-04T07:00:00.000-08:00

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"And when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and cast in her mind what manner of salutation this should be."

Every year I think I'll get Christmas cards mailed that year. I don't want to just send a card that I have signed with our family's name. Maybe a family picture could be added to the card or one of those lengthy letters catching you up on the happenings of friends and family. But, lately, for one reason or another with the family running in four different directions and in those slim chances when we are all together we're too busy having fun to remember to take a picture. And those letters? As much as I enjoy reading the ones we receive in the mail I just can't seem to bring myself to write one.

I think and think about what clever something we could do for our Christmas cards and before I know it, it's Christmas Day. I've lost another opportunity to wish those we love a merry Christmas and our hopes for them to have a splendid new year.

This year? I hope to get over the thinking and down to action to get those cards out.

Do you send out your cards early or late?

Zeba

2011-12-03T07:00:00.000-08:00

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"And the angel came in unto her, and said, Hail, thou that art highly favoured, the Lord is with thee; blessed art thou among women."

Until we meet again, sweet Zeba, my helper, my de-stressor, my sweet pet of over 12 years.

Photographed just a couple short weeks ago when I needed a friend while I was sick.

?/?/?? - 12/2/2011

This

Christmas

I will believe in

Christmas magic (love).

I will be grateful for family and friends.

I will always remember to be aware of other and

how I

might

help.

For Shimelle's Journal your Christmas prompt.

Fate

2011-12-02T07:00:00.001-08:00

“To a virgin espoused to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David; and the virgin's name was Mary.”

You’re so awesome. Thanks for stopping by.

Here we are on the first day of the last month of the 2011th year. Driving home this week I have been so amazed by the display of beautiful,brilliant orange leaves and touches of red berries on some of the trees in the valley. Then I remember Christmas is right around the corner and we should be saying farewell to fall. A part of me isn't ready to say good-bye to Autumn, but know I can’t stop time.

I have been giving a lot of thought in these days just before and following Thanksgiving about the advent of Christmas. What do I want for Christmas? How do I want to celebrate the season? I think part of that has been spurred by seeing so many people preparing for Journal your Christmas and Ali Edward's December Daily. I’ve been resisting the nudgings to join this merriment for a number of reasons. First, I don’t need to add stress to my life. Second, I really don’t have the time each day to devote to this kind of commitment. and Third, I don't have any Christmas paper I would like to work with for 31 days. If I had to work with Christmas paper I'd like it to have that old fashion Christmas flavor. I don’t have any of that on hand.

I had done pretty well to resist.

That is until I started rationalizing.

You know you've been wanting to write down some of those memories of traditions and stories of Christmases past.

Growing up and family circumstances are changing how we celebrate the holiday and journaling Christmas may be a good way to capture those changes and new traditions.

You don’t have to make it an every day commitment. You could choose to write as many as you want or don’t want. Even Ali has said to use the word daily loosely – as a guide and Shimelle has suggested if you don’t have the time to just use the prompts that speak to you.

You don't even have to use Christmas paper. You could blog your memories and stories.

Then just the other day I walked into Joann’s Craft and Sewing Store and saw it. A 12x12 Specialty paper pad of Christmas paper by K&Company. It's part of the Brenda Walton Evergreen Theme. The paper pad is all color coordinated and the paper is perfectly old fashioned looking.

I came home and signed up for Journal your Christmas with Shimelle, who has been hosting this class every December since 2004. The fates had something else in mind for me and only time will tell how well it will go.

I bet you all have wonderful holiday plans. I 'd like to hear what you have up your sleeves.

December 1st

2011-12-01T07:00:00.000-08:00

“And in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God unto a city of Galilee, named Nazareth.”

I can't believe that November is past, that our 30 days of lists is complete and now we're looking forward to Christmas. I think the biggest accomplishment, the thing that I'm proudest of is that I kept up with the 30 days of lists and blogging. I can’t believe I did it, but I did!

I'm sure you were awesome at something this past month. I'd love it if you shared what made you feel that way.

30 Days of Lists

2011-11-30T07:00:00.000-08:00

Prompt 30: I am Proud of Myself

This month has been good even though I was so sick just before Thanksgiving. I enjoyed spending three days re-exploring some Hollywood sights and then we learned of some lighthouses that are on the Los Angeles port. I never knew they were there before. I love lighthouses so we went to explore them. So worth the time.

I think it was all the hustle and bustle and late nights of that weekend caused us to be so vulnerable to that nasty cold/flu virus. Oh, well. We had fun.

This year at Thanksgiving along with my brother-in-law and sister-in-law and their families we had some of the nieces that we rarely see come this time. It was great to see and visit with them.

What kinds of awesome things did you experience this month?

29 Days of Lists

2011-11-29T07:00:00.000-08:00

Prompt 29: Awesome things about this month.

I don't know whatever makes me think I would win the lottery since I have never purchased a lottery ticket, but lately I played the sweepstakes game with the dream of receiving $5,000 every week for a lifetime. So I've thought about what I would do with that, if in the slim chance I did win.

Have you ever day dreamed about what you would do if you won the lottery/sweepstakes?

28 Days of Lists

2011-11-28T07:00:00.000-08:00

Prompt 28: If I Won the Lottery I'd

It was fun dreaming about what my dream space would include for yesterday's list. Paradise, it would be. So much so that I set out on a hunt for a paradise background.

When I first saw the title for this list I thought I might be thinking of what I would want in my dream creative space. It didn't turn out that way. Instead it turned out to be a paradise, secret place I would like to have where I could think, read, and relax. I think I want to figure out a way to create a paradise in my little space with means I have available. Sounds like another list of how to go about accomplishing this. I have a feeling that some minimalism may be on that list.

How about you? Do you have a vision of your dream place?

Day 27 of Lists

2011-11-27T07:00:00.000-08:00

Prompt 27: My Dream Space Would Include...

When I was thinking of fictitious people I love I thought about who I would like to spend the day with or have as a fellow companion on an adventure.
Bones or actually whole team of the the Bones TV series I thought would be interesting to follow around. Although there would be some times that I would venture off into less smelly or gruesome areas than they would go. I think that whole group make for a good combination.

Then there are people like Quigley and Crazy Cora. They just seem like some fun people to be around. Crazy Cora comes up with some pretty good lines.

Since I saw The Wizard of Oz as a little girl I fell in love Glenda’s dress and crown. I still love it and I would love to wear her dress and crown and float in a bubble from one place to another.

Day 26 of Lists

2011-11-26T07:00:00.000-08:00

First, today's prompt, prompt #26: Fictitious People I Love

Did you find that by doing your list for At This Moment it got in the way of the moment or did it make the moment more meaningful, last longer?

I found that I didn't want to stop to write things down but because I had been thinking about it I was able to let my mind linger on the moment and sort of take myself out of some situations to look at what was happening around me and absorb it all in. That was good.

Doing the hobby list made me more conscience of all the various things I have done or had done at one time or another. They have all been fun and exciting. Some I'd like to revisit one (tole painting) I don’t particularly care if I do or don’t do again, but I enjoyed doing it at the time.

How about you. What kind of hobbies have you done that you would like to do again. Or are you a less fickle person than I am and you stick with your hobbies?

We are getting closer and closer to the end of the month. I can’t believe how quickly the days are passing.

Day 25 of Lists

2011-11-25T07:00:00.000-08:00

There is so much to be grateful for. How do you list them and not leave something out? I found I thought of things from one end of the spectrum to the other, but I'm glad it did. It made me really consider all that I have.

I didn't get around to putting my notes into list form yesterday I was enjoying those moments with family instead of finishing lists. I'll try to have it all together tomorrow.

Now, for Prompt 25: Hobbies I've Had/Have.

Whatever you're doing today, enjoy it, be in the moment.

Day 24 of Lists

2011-11-24T07:00:00.000-08:00

Prompt 24: At This Moment

In honor of being in the moment I am doing just that and taking a break today. I'll post my completed lists after Thanksgiving. Right now I'm either enjoying the smells wafting from my kitchen, loving and being with family members, or missing and remembering the patriarch of the Mann family at this time.

It was his tradition each year before we blessed the Thanksgiving feast to recite this fun, little, Thanksgiving poem, which we all loved.

It sat there on the table, a gobbler plum and round

But when it came time to cook it, it was nowhere to be found

They searched all the kitchen and in the pantry, well

They asked John if he had seen it and Tim and Annabell

They even asked tiny Mary if she knew about it, too

And in a tiny voice she said, “Yes, of course I do.

The turkey didn't feel well because he had lost his head,

So I put my nightie on him and I tucked him in my bed.”

Wishing you and yours a beautiful, wonderful, day.

23 Days of Lists

2011-11-23T07:00:00.000-08:00

Did you list your favorite things of this time of year? Here in the United States one of the things most of us probably think about this time of year is turkey and it lands somewhere on the favorite lists. I know it's something I'm always thinking about this time of year. Whole roasted turkey is synonymous with love in my book. I also look forward to another of my most favorite things of this time of year – being together with family and friends.

Prompt 23: Grateful For
What are feeling grateful for lately?

22 Days of Lists

2011-11-22T07:00:00.000-08:00

Quick recap of lists 20 and 21. Things to do Before my Birthday - I couldn't think of a lot that I wanted or needed to be done by the time of my birthday. I just have an overwhelming need to get away and be pampered, hence booking a cruise. For me, a cruise is a luxury that wonders for my My Mann and for my soul. The other think on my mind is the school's WASC (Western Association of Schools and Colleges) accreditation. That is on my mind a lot and I can’t wait to have it behind me.

Things that Motivate Me – I guess I'm pretty base in what motivates me since my list isn't very big and the items on it aren't very creative. How about you? What motivates you, deadlines or creativity?

Now for today's Prompt 22: Favorite Things This Time of Year.

21 Days of Lists

2011-11-21T07:00:00.000-08:00

I must have really been out of it yesterday when I did my post because I neglected to give the prompt for yesterday. So today is going to be a make-up day. Prompt 20: Things To Do Before My Birthday and the prompt for today, Prompt 21: Things That Motivate Me.

Have a great day. Smile and be in the moment.

Day 20 of Lists

2011-11-20T07:00:00.000-08:00

Managed to get a couple lists done.

Finished the Weekend Plans that had very little of it accomplished, but the Things I love To Do When I’m Sick list hit the jackpot.

Project 365 this week was very, very, very sparse. To start out My Mann and I had a busy, three day weekend. We both became run down with our agenda. As nice as it was, we both paid for it. My Mann sooner than me, but still paid for it nonetheless. It took all we could muster just to go to work.

Project 365 Detail

The week ended with thoughts of getting Thanksgiving arrangements started.

Day 19 of Lists

2011-11-19T07:00:00.000-08:00

I think I've caught the flu. That nasty, little thing. I'm not feeling well. Due to this achy, stuffy, dragging feeling has shot my Weekend plans to pieces (including getting some of my plans done). Sigh.

How about the prompt for today? Prompt 19: Things I like to do When I’m Sick.

Hope to be back in better health tomorrow. For crying out loud I’ve got family coming for Thanksgiving dinner. Thankfully it’s a smaller group this year, with only 27 coming.

Hope your weekend plans are going better than mine started. Off to bed for a long while.

Love to you all.

Day 18 of Lists

2011-11-18T07:00:00.000-08:00

Yesterday’s list of ways to avoid housework wasn't very big but those things on the list sure pack a lot of time wasting. Can't say I'm too upset with that because not only do they keep me from doing some housework they offer a lot of comfort when I need to unwind after work.

Today is Friday! Hooray for the weekend! Prompt 18: Weekend Plans. Have a great weekend.

Day 17 of Lists

2011-11-17T07:00:00.000-08:00

So glad I did the To Do list. It got me back on the wagon again. I had fallen off, which isn’t completely bad, but I let the procrastination go on a little too long, haphazardly doing things and letting the hard things go. It is time to plan fun, enjoy the good, do the bad, and make time for the ugly.

This makes a nice little segue into our prompt for today. Prompt 17: Ways to Avoid Housework.

Day 16 of Lists

2011-11-16T07:00:00.000-08:00

Prompt 16: To Do List. I haven’t been keeping To Do lists lately and things aren’t getting done around here. So this list will be timely.

It was fun thinking up inventions that I wish were real. I drew on my experience of watching Star Trek movies and the TV series. I've always thought that several of the items used in the future as every day items would be great to have now.

My Sweet Pea, who loves Star Trek, seeing how much my sister and I would like to live closer, talking daily to each other over the phone and how far apart we live mentioned that she would build a transporter for us when she was older. My sister and I still tease her that she hasn't made good on her promise.

I think the medical field would greatly benefit, and us, if every doctor had a medical tricorder.

I really know I could use a food replicator on those evenings when I don't feel like cooking.

Have you ever been in the car listening to the radio and there was something said that you didn’t hear completely or a song played that you wish you could press rewind to hear over again just like with Tivo or the DVR?

And lastly having a holodeck for a quick get away would be a dream, don't you think?

Day 15 of Lists

2011-11-15T07:00:00.000-08:00

Prompt 15: Inventions I Wish Were Real

Here is my List for yesterday's prompt, Things I Do To Procrastinate. What kind of things do you do that keep you from those dreaded to do items?

Day 14 of Lists

2011-11-14T07:00:00.000-08:00

What have you never done? Here is the list I started of my I nevers.

Today's prompt, Prompt #14: Things I do to Procrastinate

Project 365 - Week 33 and Day 13 of Lists

2011-11-13T07:00:00.000-08:00

This week was a fairly calm week. Our week began with a birthday celebration for My Sweet Pea and My Boy has been having friends over most every night this week instead of being at friends almost every night. I enjoyed some flowers that My Sweet Peas surprised me with at work and then the week ended with My Mann and I taking a day of leisure in Hollywood. While we were there I noticed two girls playing in the water feature at the mall on the corner of Highland and Hollywood Blvd. They were having so much fun.

Each evening I have spent a bit of time doing something creative for the 30 Days of Lists and for the 30 Days in your Journal class I have been doing this month. Learning to get over some of my hang ups because of the class and watching Julie's video demonstrations.

Prompt 12: If I Ruled the World, took some real thought. I have a controlling disposition yet I also know that I can’t make anyone do what I want them to. So what can I really control? Probably the only thing I could control would be women's bathrooms. I've already been to a place that had 39 commodes and was immaculately clean. It was like heaven. You can read about it here. Anyway, since ruling the world is a dream I just decided to list some things I dream about in a perfect world.

Prompt 13: Never Have I

What would you choose to have if you ruled the world?

Day 12 of Lists

2011-11-12T07:00:00.000-08:00

Yesterday's list brought back many memories. TV shows that I enjoyed watching. Some that were, I think, the initial beginnings for some of today's big actors like Robin Williams who starred as Mork in the Mork and Mindy Show and Pierce Brosnan as Remington Steele in the show named Remington Steele. Those were the days.

OK, Prompt 12: If I Ruled the World.

What were some of your favorite TV shows?

Day 11 of Lists

2011-11-11T07:00:00.000-08:00

Starting off with today’s prompt, #11: TV Shows I Wish Would Come Back

I am trying to break out into art journaling and have felt A LOT of apprehension about doing it. Afraid I might break some rule and feeling like I don't even know the rules. Another problem is the word art. It's hanging me up because I'm repurposing a book I found in the library, titled The Trouble With Rules. Perfect title I thought.

I can’t believe how long it takes me to finish up a page, but I’m liking the possibilities. How do you get over things that hang you up?