My Dog Ate It...

Thankful Thursday

2011-05-05T16:41:00.000-07:00

I am Thankful to God for bringing friends into our lives...New friends, old friends, each person brings something for a bigger purpose.

Happy Thoughts

2011-05-04T18:46:00.000-07:00

Each day I ask Marissa, "What is the Best Part of Your Day?" Since I've been too busy to blog, I thought I'd create a list with some Happy Thoughts!

Wednesday, May 4th:

Finding a Chuck E. Cheese coin while making change for an elderly customer!

What's the BEST part of your day?

Purse Love

2010-01-12T13:14:00.000-08:00

OK, Just wanted to share...My new purse. So cute...$80.00 purse...marked 80% off...Used Gift Card for Christmas Gift...Purse Love...

2010-01-05T08:08:00.000-08:00

These are my Corelle "Morning Blue" dishes. My Mom bought me dishes when I was still in high school for when I moved out. When I moved out, I took them. Over the years I added a few pieces. I love Corelle because for the most part, it doesn't break and it is lightweight and space saving.

A few weeks ago, I saw some of these dishes at a consignment store and they were cheap. I didn't get them because I thought I'd get new dishes at some point soon. A couple days later I regretted not getting them and now they're sold.

So, what does a girl do? Goes on Ebay to look for said dishes and finds out they're "vintage" (a/k/a old) and now hard to find and more than I want to pay on Ebay. Ugh!!!!

If anyone sees these dinner plates (cheap), please pick them up for me!

Shopping Bargain

2009-12-03T12:39:00.000-08:00

I rocked it out today at the local thrift store. I found a bag of littlest pet shop animals (87 to be exact) for $4.00. Each of these little guys is usually $4.00 each! Some of them even came with hats, scarves, booties, hair bows, bibs, etc.

So far Marissa and Micayla have been playing with them for an hour...sorting...trading...having fun!

To quote Andrea: "They have cute-ability."

Blog Worthy!

2009-12-02T19:56:00.000-08:00

OK, my friend Linette said this was blog-worthy.

Since Marissa has been testing boundaries lately, I've been keeping everyone informed on our parental (lack of) control.

About two weeks ago, we went to Publix and she was acting out in the grocery store. I immediately went to check out. On the way home, she was screaming and kicking my chair. What is a Mom to do?

I immediately drove to the police station. I informed the officer that I had an eight year old who was having issues with respect and automobile safety. He had a little conversation with her that produced tears followed up by a sheriff badge sticker. Apparently I am not the only Mom to have done this.

By the way, she's been much better this last week.

Enough said.

My New Business

2009-11-28T05:16:00.000-08:00

I wanted to share some news with you about my new business with Uppercase Living. As most of you know, I have been a stay-at-home mom for quite some time. I really miss getting out, meeting new people and using the creativity and passion God has given me. I am very excited about this new opportunity because the products "wow" me and are very cost effective.

Uppercase Living has expressions for every occasion and you can even create custom designs. Some inexpensive ideas include coasters, monograms, wall expressions, auto embellishments, and even chalk wall items.

Check it out!
http://margaretinsc.uppercaseliving.net/
www.uppercaseliving.com

Defective Dog

2009-11-23T08:12:00.000-08:00

Snowball is unique.

Top Ten Snow-isms:
1. She HATES wet ground and refuses to step on the grass.
2. She chases her tail and looks at you like you are WEIRD.
3. She gets herself wrapped up in her leash everytime I put it on her.
4. She destroys all toys except for one stinkin' $.82 cheap toy from Walmart.
5. She will steal things and bring them to me to "trade" for a treat.
6. She loves to chase a laser beam (I think she's part cat).
7. She doesn't like to be "naked" (without her collar).
8. She is freaked out by stray soccer balls in our yard.
9. She hides things under our bed.
10. She licks EVERYTHING (this is the dog I chose because she licked my face!)

We still love you Snowy!

Where is my Sweet Child?

2009-11-11T12:09:00.000-08:00

Haven't seen the sweet size of Marissa in a few weeks.
It's too early for these pre-teen behaviors.

Just yesterday:

She THREW a hamster (it's ok)
She PINCHED Micayla hard enough to leave a bruise
She called me CHEAP in front of a shoe store
She had a TANTRUM in Walgreens like a toddler
She ARGUED with me regarding homework again

Oh, sweet child...please come back...soon!

Snowball

2009-11-10T12:23:00.000-08:00

Snowball really needs to pull her weight and get a job.
She needs to pay for all the stuff she destroys.
I really think the dog in this commercial could be her twin.

What do you think?
Should Snowball pursue an acting career?

Dear Santa

2009-11-09T16:28:00.000-08:00

Because I am selfish...
Not saying I've been more nice than naughty...

Here is my Christmas Wish List:

custom scrapbooker's t-shirt at etsy.com, size 2x please
garden botanika heart perfume
life is good stuff
tervis tumbler stuff
cricut gypsy
hands-on training with the dog whisperer
trip for my sister and I to Brave Girls Camp
oh, and, don't forget... world peace

Craftsman's Chicken

2009-10-15T17:29:00.000-07:00

Tuesday was the first session of SPOTS and we had a game show where we shared our favorite cooking disaster. Our table won.

Here it is:

1 lb boneless chicken breasts
1 head of broccoli
1 lb mozzarella cheese
salt & pepper to taste
paprika for garnishing
1 wet-dry vac

Rinse broccoli and separate into stalks. Flatten chicken breasts and add salt and pepper to taste. Place mozzarella cheese and broccoli on top of chicken and roll up. Use toothpicks to hold in place. Place in a baking dish. Sprinkle paprika on top. Bake at 350° for approximately 30 min. or until the chicken is cooked through.

Here’s how the recipe got its name:
Lou had prepared the chicken and Margaret was just going to add a little paprika for color. Instead, she added cinnamon! Oops! No problem ... Lou will just vacuum up the cinnamon with the Craftsman wet/dry vac. Well, to prove the strength of the wet/dry vac, just see how fast it sucks up chicken, leaving only toothpicks and broccoli behind! True Story!

Bob Vila gives this recipe 5 hammers!

Awesome Photography Blog

2009-10-14T07:40:00.000-07:00

The thing I love about blogging is that you find other blogs with the same interests by clicking on a blog of a friend of a friend...you get it...

Angelica Grade Designs is a blog I view every day.
Check out her awesome photography at Angie Seaman Photography.

Cute Kid

2009-10-08T17:51:00.000-07:00

If I wanted another kid...
If I wanted a kid instead of a dog...
If I wanted the kid to look like me instead of her father...
If I wanted a kid to be a girl...

it would look like her.

Junkin for Milk Glass

2009-10-07T12:50:00.000-07:00

As most of my friends know, I love "junkin." I search thrift stores for fabulous treasures. Lately I have been finding milk glass to store craft items in my craft room.

These are my latest bargains...

Phrase of the Day

2009-09-29T12:15:00.000-07:00

Quoted from Desperate Housewives:

"You're one dead dog away from a country song."

Says it all, huh?

About me

2009-09-23T12:14:00.000-07:00

What does your tv say about you? I "tivo" almost all of my favorites so I can watch when I feel like it (a/k/a child is in bed and husband releases remote).

I am a 40-something stay at home mom with a husband, child and dog, 2 hamsters, living in suburbia upscale Columbia, South Carolina.

Do I watch TV shows about suburbia? educational shows? No, lately this is what I'm into:

My husband wants to know why his wife is into violence, bikers, guns, drugs, foul language, tattoos and blood and guts...

Anyone relate to this?

Seacoast Church

2009-09-14T16:24:00.000-07:00

We love our life group.

To view video, click here.

Halloween is Coming

2009-09-10T12:51:00.001-07:00

Halloween is coming up.
Marissa wants to be a witch.
OK, I know I shouln't have those thoughts.
Anyway, we're going to buy a non-spooky witch costume.

If only I had time, money and room to decorate a bathroom.
If you need Halloween decorating inspiration...click here.

I HEART Hamsters!

2009-09-09T12:34:00.000-07:00

Our Hamster babies are all grown now. Brownie on the left and Toffee on the right. They have the sweetest personalities. That's Katherine holding them. She's a wacky animal person too.

Snowball still wants to eat them.

Waffles

2009-09-02T12:19:00.001-07:00

Whatever happened to plain waffles?

Remember when you used to pick the cereal box based on the toy inside?
Marissa picks out Eggo waffles based on the graphics!

She says they taste better but I don't see a difference...

Mariposa

2009-09-01T12:44:00.001-07:00

The children's museum has a traveling exhibit of butterflies right now that are gorgeous.

It was my favorite part of the museum and Marissa's least favorite!

Management Material???

2009-08-31T13:58:00.000-07:00

OK, you know your 8 year old child is destined for management material when...

- she gets someone to carry her backpack for her
- she gets someone to do her homework
- she's teaching me the symbols for South Carolina (I grew up in NY)

Should I be worried?

My "Nephew"

2009-08-30T18:10:00.000-07:00

In my early twenties, I was a Big Sister through Big Brothers/Big Sisters (a United Way organization). I was blessed with the opportunity to mentor Vickie for a few years and loved it. I met her when she was 8 and we hit it off. I love her as a "real" sister and we have always stayed in touch. She was in my bridal party and I have seen her graduate from high school, college and get married. Vickie and Mike have now become proud parents of Benjamin.

Isn't he a cutie?
What do you think he's dreaming about?

It's neat when you can see both parents features in a child. I know they will love him to pieces and be great parents.

Bad Dog!

2009-08-27T12:18:00.000-07:00

Snowball has a serious chewing problem.
Guess she was bored.
The destroyed items this time were 3 rolls of toilet paper and a box of tissues.

What, I didn't do anything...

Belated Birthday Pictures

2009-08-26T12:35:00.000-07:00

OK, so I'm a bit late with this.

Marissa's 8th birthday was July 20th.
She had a scavenger hunt and a musical birthday card.

Always looking so happy.

Presents...does it get any better?

Some love for Daddy!

Yum, Carvel ice cream cake!

The Birthday Stash!

The special birthday candle.
You burn each year on your birthday.
Aunt Sally gave Marissa this candle.
She bought me the same type of candle when I was born.
It is supposed to play music but sounds kind of warped...
I love traditions.

Firefighter at work

2009-08-25T19:31:00.000-07:00

Abbe sent me this great video clip and it just makes me crack up! Make sure sound is on and you watch his face...

School Supplies

2009-08-24T14:22:00.000-07:00

Just in case you thought public school was "tuition free":

One Third Grader:
School Supplies $50
Lunch box $8
LL Bean rolling backpack (with light up wheels) $75
School Fee $15
PTO $20
ALERT (gifted program) $30
Uniforms/school clothes
Cafeteria fees
after school program (cheerleading) $50

On the other hand, if I was a homeroom parent (and I'm NOT! by choice) I could create something very cute:

Hilarious!

2009-08-23T16:39:00.000-07:00

Don't Send a Man to a Grocery Store...

I laughed myself silly...

Click here: Jeannie Robertson

Carowinds Amusement Park

2009-08-22T21:27:00.000-07:00

We had a blast at Carowinds.
My favorite ride was Cobra.
Check it out.

Best Video of Carowinds Cobra

http://carolinacobra.carowinds.com/

Can't wait to go again.
Thanks Stephanie!

Friday Funnies

2009-08-21T06:11:00.001-07:00

Thought we could use some laughs!

Another one...

Happy Friday!

3rd Grade

2009-08-20T12:54:00.001-07:00

My Child?
Looks like Lou, acts like Lou, eats like Lou...
Loves School like Lou? Guess so. I didn't like school.
Marissa LOVES school.
Even though we had a busy summer, she couldn't wait to go back to school.

Because we're in the South, we start school before Labor day.

Here are pics of Marissa's first day of Third Grade.

Here is the special LL Bean rolling backpack with light up wheels!

Our school has a uniform policy and luckily most parents/students conform to it. Her school colors are white, tan, navy, hunter and burgundy. It makes life so easy! Wish they would do this for all grades.

Thanks for the new sneakers and shoes Aunt Sally!

Marissa @ Cheer Camp

2009-07-30T19:19:00.000-07:00

This Summer Marissa has been very busy with many vbs/cheer camps.

To view, click here

Thankful Thursday

2009-07-30T18:56:00.001-07:00

Today is Thursday and I thought I would post a few things I'm thankful for:

1. Marissa and I are getting along without many arguments lately
2. My health is awesome, blood sugarsand moods are good
3. Having wonderful doctors and therapists
4. Having positive friends
5. Having a supportive spouse
6. Snowball hasn't destroyed anything today (so far)
7. Having good books to read
8. Dinner was amazing (ropa vieja; & yes, I actually cooked!)
9. God has blessed us with riches and not one of them is monetary
10. We've slept in all week (no vbs/camps this week!)

What are you thankful for today?

Hamsters are back!

2009-07-15T14:06:00.001-07:00

We have two more hammies....

They are little, little babies...

Here is Brownie, the Big Sister

Here is Toffee, the Little Sister

Roaming the playroom...

Welcome to our crazy family!

Summer is here...

2009-07-06T04:46:00.000-07:00

Spring Valley Cheer Camp

Marissa attended her third year of Spring Valley cheer camp. As usual she loved it. The energy of all the girls was amazing. Go Vikings!

Woodstock Kiddie Camp

KT and friends were playing in Camden. It is a family place so our family went to see him play. It was awesome. Good music and friends. By the end of the night, Marissa and Levi were camped out in front of the speakers at their own private concert. Does this mean we've taken them to too many concerts?

Happy 4th of July!

Thanks to our friends who have a farm, we enjoyed a picnic and fireworks.

Here is Marissa sporting her baby pony tails enjoying a sparkler.

Since Linette is always behind the camera, here she is...

Enjoy your summer.

Too Busy to Blog!

2009-07-06T04:24:00.000-07:00

Guess what we've been doing? Photography by Linette Stephens!

This is Pine Island on Lake Murray, South Carolina. It is a club for employees where Lou works. It is our new favorite place. We've been enjoying friends and the beautiful weather.

Marissa is going for the "oompa-loompa" look in hair these days...(remember willy-wonka?)

Captain Lou loves the boat...

The kids love tubin'

For those of you that didn't know...we also own a sailboat. I almost died on that sailboat and won't get on it again. This boat is named Daddy's Girl and is much more loved by me.

Oh, did I mention I've had swimmer's ear for 3 weeks?

What a life!!!! We are blessed.

Go chill.

Scrapbook Organization

2009-06-04T04:59:00.000-07:00

Did you know you can buy almost anything online?
If you call it a scrapbook organization product, you can charge double.

This is what you can get for about $50 (on sale):

This is what you can get for free (on garbage day... from your good neighbor Sondra)!

Can't wait to clean it up and organize something!

Bye Boomer

2009-05-26T18:06:00.000-07:00

This is a pic of my fur-nephew, Boomer.
I did not want to love this dog.
He is big.
He is scary.
He knocks people over with his tail.
He is so marmaduke-like.
He steals food.
Most of all, he stole my heart.

He will be missed most of all by his peeps, Sue, Evan and Kate. Every dog should have love and he received plenty. No one knows why God calls his children and creatures to his kingdom at different ages. Thank you for loving him.

Rest in peace, Boomer.

I love this commercial!

2009-05-15T20:57:00.000-07:00

For those of us who love hamsters...

Click on the link: Kia Soul

Mother's Day

2009-05-11T05:05:00.000-07:00

Mother's Day was wonderful.

Lou and Marissa gave me presents including a digital photo viewer for my purse.
I LOVE IT!
We went to church and then went out on the boat.
There was minimal whining and a long island ice tea involved.
Great Mother's Day!

She knows me...

2009-05-08T05:11:00.001-07:00

Does Marissa know me or what?

Marissa: "Mom, can I walk home?"
Mom: "With a cast on your leg? Let me think...NO"

Marissa: "Mom, can I go home from school with Katie?"
Mom: "No, I will pick you up car pool."

Marissa: "Mom, can Katie's Mom pick me up car pool? Come on, Ms. Laura can pick me up and you can go shopping..."

Does she know me or what? Gotta love it.

How many licks?

2009-05-05T12:21:00.000-07:00

How many licks does it take to get to the center of a tootsie pop?

We will never know.
Snowball ate 4 or 5 pops including sticks.
I guess she'll have technicolor poop again!

First Broken Bone!

2009-05-04T12:47:00.001-07:00

There is a first time for everything.

Marissa has her first broken bone and first cast.
I've never broken anything and I'm 41.

Marissa fractured her ankle on Saturday evening...

Was she jumping? No.
Was she doing gymnastics? No.
Was she riding her bike? No.

She was trying on clothes...
and tripped over a wastebasket...

Woo Hoo!

First break...first cast...she's very happy
to get all the attention and to pick a RED cast!

After Mom & Dad accepting this, we're all fine.

No More Training Wheels!

2009-04-18T20:15:00.001-07:00

It's Official. Marissa has ditched the training wheels and is now sporting a brand spankin new Hannah Montana bicycle.

Watch out world, here she comes!

Hamster Mania!

2009-04-04T03:58:00.000-07:00

Guess who got straight A's on her report card?
Marissa was rewarded with a hamster and she named him Honey.

All of us already LOVE him except Snowball! She wants to EAT him BAD!

How can you resist that face?

Welcome to our crazy world, Honey!

Father/Daughter Dance

2009-03-28T16:00:00.000-07:00

Marissa enjoyed the Father/Daughter Dance at Lake Carolina Elementary. It was their 2nd annual event and this year was special because Marissa's doll, Natalie, had a dress that matched Marissa's. Lou bought Marissa a corsage of tiny roses and baby's breath and they looked so happy!

How did she get this old?

Happy 40th Birthday Lou!

2009-03-25T04:53:00.001-07:00

We celebrated Lou's 40th birthday. Marissa and I made signs for the front lawn so EVERYONE knew he was 40! He received 40 gifts for the boat:

1 keep dry boat box
1 pool noodle
1 suntan lotion
1 floating key buoy
1 box of bandaids
1 LED light
1 boaters key
1 captain hat
2 drink coozies
2 towels
4 batteries
4 mesh bags
4 packs of gum
16 drinking cups

= 40 fabulous usable gifts!

I had so much fun with this. Love ya Lou. Hope your birthday was a blast.

The Animals are Winning!

2009-03-20T06:17:00.001-07:00

As if LIFE isn't crazy enough.
I have a dog who wants to RUN AWAY all the time.
I have sea monkeys who are dying.
AND, now I have a BIRD who wants to peck my front window ALL day, EVERY day...
It's not like my windows are sparkling clean and he sees himself.
Damn Bird!

Solar System

2009-03-16T18:25:00.000-07:00

Marissa loves clay. She created a solar system and stuck it to our living room window. So far Snowball has eaten Earth....

I do LOVE me some good bumper sticker...

2009-03-13T06:50:00.000-07:00

GRITS vs GRIN... Lou took this picture at the parking lot at church. Wonder who it belongs to?

Love it.

Our Boho Child

2009-03-09T18:02:00.000-07:00

Marissa has always had her own sense of style. She wears uniforms to school so she pretty much has free choice the rest of the time. I only step in if it's for pictures or church (and not even then, most of time).

Her style is becoming more and more bohemian chic or soho style. We went today for haircut and this is the hair style she chose. Go Marissa! If anyone can pull it off, it's her.

It didn't work out...

2009-02-26T15:42:00.000-08:00

I'm so sad...

I guess we're meant to be a one-dog family. Cody was an awesome dog but the two dogs just were fighting all day. We gave it three days and I just don't think I could live like that any more.

Please pray that he finds an awesome family who will spoil him rotten! I hope that he will get neutered and calms down. Please spay and neuter your pets!

Lou brought this home...

2009-02-25T08:03:00.000-08:00

I wanted to share...Lou brought this home yesterday.

His name is Cody and he is 2. Cody and Snowball are trying to establish the alpha pack... It should be an interesting couple of days.

He is very well mannered and loves Marissa. He knows how to sit, give paw, lay down and beg.

Last night I was worried about them getting along. This morning that changed and I didn't care about either one of them because they were fighting on my bed, with me in it!

Let the fur fly and we'll see how it goes. I'll keep you posted...

Yes, we are dog crazy!

It's a Dog's Life

2009-02-22T11:17:00.000-08:00

OK, here is the vandal. Snowball is accused of stealing items from our hamper. She must think it is a "cookie jar" and helps herself. She gets the lid open and steals underwear, socks, pajamas, etc.

Does she look innocent? NOT!

ford explorer for sale - "red tape" included

2009-02-18T11:16:00.000-08:00

we're trying to sell our ford explorer (for 3 months now!)

DMV trip 1: first trip to dmv in november was to get a copy of title we didn't have.
came home because margaret was listed as the owner and didn't have signed paper with her signature.

DMV trip 2: went back to dmv next day with signed paper.
it turned out truck was never titled in sc. they told us to come back with lien release letter and copy of nj title.

searched house (mega searched!) and found lien release letter but no nj title.

DMV trip 3: had to go to dmv to get a letter to say that truck was never titled in sc, a notarized letter why it was never titled, a picture and a pencil rubbing of the vin, and a copy of the registration.

sent that to nj and waited one month to get a duplicate nj title.

DMV trip 4: go to dmv and they couldn't title it without receipt of paid taxes.

DMV trip 5: go to sc richland county tax assessor who told us we didn't have to pay the taxes - just get a title only.

DMV trip 6: went to shop road dmv who told us because it was an out of state title, they had to see the actual vehicle.

DMV trip 7: went back to blythewood, jump started the truck, drove it to dmv where they could see the vehicle and title it.
vehicle wouldn't start and margaret had to pick up the dmv employee and drive her to the vehicle that wouldn't start so she could verify the vin number and then give us the sc title.

now we have the SC title and the explorer is getting a new battery tommorrow.

I know God has a plan for all this... it will be interesting to find out what it is...

anyone want to buy an explorer?

Happy Valentine's Day

2009-02-14T14:59:00.001-08:00

my present...
Lou is home from hospital.
coughing like crazy...
It's GREAT to have him home.
that's my present.
I think it's a good one!

here's the punch line...

2009-02-12T19:09:00.001-08:00

this is a computer punch card

Marissa chose computers as her school report project and while researching them the concept of punch cards came up.

Lou asked Marissa if she knew what punch cards were. She said "Yeah, those are the cards the guy punches when we go to Moe's."

Guess we're old parents...

Lou has pneumonia...

2009-02-10T15:43:00.000-08:00

My dear hubby is still at the hospital. He has pneumonia and they are doing another x-ray tommorrow. He is in good spirits. I don't have any pictures but here is a visual image.

When Lou got to hospital Monday night, he was out of breath. They ran all kinds of tests including an EKG. They have to stick these electrode thingies (I have no medical knowledge) to your chest. They had to shave where they put the thingies. He looks like a checkerboard....Enjoy the visual...

Thanks for your prayers and well wishes. Check on my sanity in a few days. I rely on him much more than I realize.

I love Jesus but I drink a little.

2009-02-05T03:52:00.001-08:00

check out this ellen clip...

Scrapbooking in February

2009-02-03T15:58:00.000-08:00

Here are the pages for February class:

Thanks for looking!

I love her...

2009-02-03T05:51:00.000-08:00

I love her.
she is so peaceful when she sleeps.
no yelling
no hissy fits
no whining

I love her...but
let me cherish the quiet until she comes home from school.

Latest Creations

2009-01-29T13:01:00.000-08:00

I made this for Leigh Ann.
It says "Home is Where The Dogs Are..."

This is my latest Everyday Display in our living room which is brown and blue. It says Home, Faith, Love and Family which are all important to me.

Crafts Again!

2009-01-27T12:30:00.001-08:00

This is a project I taught at my LSS a while back. The colors made me happy today.

We're Ready for Spring

2009-01-24T14:35:00.000-08:00

Aunt Sue sent Marissa these awesome sandals...
Those toes are ready for Spring...

Attitude!

2009-01-23T05:18:00.000-08:00

Oh, our little Diva with the attitude.

We love her personal style. Sometimes it is "Soho Chic". Most of the time, it's just fun and sassy!

Best Friends

2009-01-21T14:24:00.000-08:00

I don't know how I came upon this.
If you LOVE animals, click on the link and watch!

So cute.

I've been crafty!

2009-01-21T12:17:00.000-08:00

I saw this project over a year ago and finally got inspired to create my own. I found a chair with a broken seat, painted it and wove mens' neckties for the seat. I love the way it came out. I'm changing up the colors of my craft room to yellow and deep red.

Here's a close up of the ties.

I also updated the everyday display with this scrapbook layout...

Crafty = Happy!

Snow...

2009-01-20T06:03:00.000-08:00

I can't believe it actually snowed.
Here.
In South Carolina.
Wow.

Thank you God for this beautiful experience.

Lou bought the sled at a yard sale about 3 years ago and we've been patiently waiting for a chance to use it.

Let's go enjoy it while it lasts. Who knows the next time we'll get to see it...

I Love Scrapbooking

2009-01-19T06:34:00.000-08:00

I love this everyday display. It's magnetic so you can create and create all over again when you choose. I'm planning on putting this one in an album and starting over again....

Camp Bow Wow

2009-01-18T15:44:00.000-08:00

We have a houseguest...
His name is Brady...
I think he's a dog.
Snowball thinks he's a fun object to chase around the house.
It's been very amusing.
I'm glad Snowy hasn't looked for Brady's squeeker yet...

Another Favorite

2009-01-14T13:48:00.000-08:00

Another gift from Lou...

Philippians 4:13 - I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength".

Small Things

2009-01-14T06:15:00.000-08:00

It's the small things that matter sometimes...

Lou gave me these awesome gifts for christmas. A "girly" monogram for my truck and a "south carolina" palmetto trailer hitch cover.

Sure doesn't take much to make me happy sometimes...

Thanks Lou!

My New Toy

2009-01-09T18:07:00.001-08:00

This is an electronic cutter called Cricut Expression which can cut from 1/4" sizes up to 23.5". I was able to get it from ebay at a much more reasonable price. The bad part is that you have to buy cartridges to get more fonts and base graphics. The good part is that I accept gift cards to all major craft stores from all friends and relatives!

O.M.G. - I did NOT think I would LOVE this machine. Die cuts are just NOT my thing. Until now... The final cut products are much more detailed than the old die cutting systems and since scrapbook paper is 12 x 12, I became interested. You can also cut vinyl. I'm thinking cute little window graphics for the back of the Yukon...

I have just played with it for the first time and I made an AWESOME frame for my February Scrap Class. You'll have to wait for the completed layout pages to see it.

To quote Marissa: "I love the smell of a New Toy!"

Scrapbook Layouts for January Class

2009-01-08T14:31:00.001-08:00

I teach scrapbook classes from my home once a month. "Caught in the act" is our class for January. Thanks for looking!

It's all about the Girl ... the American Girl

2009-01-07T17:26:00.000-08:00

Santa brought Marissa this American Girl doll. Marissa has named her Natalie because Natalie means "born on Christmas."

Aunt Sue gave Marissa the Bubble Tub. It's been a big hit. Thanks Aunt Sue!

During Winter Break Lou and Marissa made this Trundle Bed for Natalie. Check out the organization of the AG items ...Wish Marissa's room looked this organized!

Craft Note: The t-shirt with the cupcake was created by Marissa and I!

My Favorite Christmas Gift

2009-01-06T19:35:00.000-08:00

I love handmade gifts! My niece, Kate, made this awesome scrapbook layout in a frame for me. I love it and it matches the blue and brown in my living room. Thanks Kate (and Michael)!

Marley & Me Wanna Be

2009-01-05T20:07:00.000-08:00

Went to see Marley & Me. Knew the ending....Still cried AND cried AND cried. I love animals more than people. Don't know what that says about me. Here is our own Marley. Snowball has lived through another christmas season. She only ate/destroyed about 8 ornaments, 3 socks, 2 underwear, one handmade wreath (including paper, ribbon and glue), 3 projects Marissa made in school, and 1 stuffed animal. Pretty good for two week span...

If you want to see a list of what this monster has ate, go down to November 2007 - The Poop/Scoop on Snowball in my archived list... Thanks for looking.

Happy 2009

2009-01-05T06:15:00.001-08:00

I vow to blog more this year. Right now I am sick (over 10 days - don't think it's a cold anymore). I plan on putting up a post as often as I can. Thanks to those friends who inspire me ...

Halloween is coming!

2008-10-25T19:39:00.000-07:00

Check out Marissa as a cat!

Leigh Ann Rocks!

2008-10-25T19:37:00.000-07:00

Since I suck as a bloggger and Leigh Ann and Linette are AWESOME at it, I added them to my favorite site links. Leigh Ann blogs my monthly scrapbook classes so feel free to check out her cool blogspot at The Birdsell Nest.

OK, so I don't update often...

2008-10-25T19:33:00.000-07:00

If being a mom, wife, woman, child of God, daughter, niece, sister, animal lover and friend are not enough responsibility, I choose to create a blog that I NEVER update. I promise to make a better effort.

WUWU (What's Up With Us)

2008-02-11T03:33:00.000-08:00

Since I am too lazy to send out Christmas cards, here is our official WUWU (What's Up With Us)....

Lou has become a sailor. I am very proud of all the innovative ideas he put into place and how much he has learned so far. Kudos to his friend David for teaching him to sail "the Lou way!"

Marissa is 6 (and a half!)

Marissa is doing great in school, loves reading, has tons of energy and an awesome personality. She is still into gymnastics and continues to love life.

Lou and Marissa continue to enjoy camping and daddy/daughter time.

Snowball had matured and has reduced her intake of our house a little....

Margaret is still teaching scrapbooking and working part-time. See my weight loss journey below...

My Weight Loss Journey

2008-02-11T03:08:00.000-08:00

I have struggled with weight most of my life. After research, prayer, insurance battles, doctors, tests and more tests, I have had lap band surgery. Since surgery on December 18, 2007, I have lost 28 pounds. More importantly, I am off of 4 diabetic medications. My family has joined the YMCA and my goal is to keep trying new things. So far I have tried yoga, water aerobics, four different cardio machines and have used the indoor pool to swim laps (yes, really!) and the indoor track for walking. Lou and Marissa also LOVE going there. If they would allow the dog, we could move in. I have been having fun shopping at thrift stores buying different size clothes and trying them on daily.

Thanks for all my friends and family for their support. Thanks to Lou and Marissa for putting up with my mood swings as I learn to manage food and emotional eating issues. Thanks to the wonderful doctors, nutritionist, psychologist, support group and God for helping me with this journey.

I will try to post monthly pictures.

Goodbye Furry Friend

2007-12-09T16:26:00.000-08:00

It is with a heavy heart that we say goodbye to Tasha today. She lived great 13 years but now she is romping around in doggie heaven.

Here are some special pictures:

To honor her memory, here is a list of special memories in no particular order:

Tasha participated at vacation bible school, playing herself as a snowdog for Arctic Edge (We consider her a Saved Christian Dog!)
Tasha liked to walk on recycle day and liked to sniff the glass bottles in the recycle bins, her favorite being scotch! (She was known to drink directly from Abby's glass when no one was looking)

While living in New Jersey, Tasha learned to open the door from the kitchen to the basement stairwell. This was a good skill to have if you were planning on stealing chicken bones from the garbage.

Also in the NJ home, Tasha would remove the drain from the bathroom sink to get to the toothpaste

Tasha took a swim in Sesquicentennial Park (her one and only) and was one smelly wet hairy Husky!

After moving to SC, Tasha's favorite spot to keep cool was lying in the bathtub

Tasha once chewed through the in-laws' luggage to get to their mints

Tasha once consumed a Christmas present, wrapping and all, of chocolate covered pecans (Oh, was that fun!)

When I was pregnant Tasha and I would swim together in a kiddie pool

Tasha loved to play soccer with her purple ball

Tasha loved to play in the snow and dig her nose in it where she could be a true snow dog

Tasha's favorite toy was a puppy from Big Dogs that had just the right amount of soft latex and squeak and she carried it around as if it was her baby

When Marissa was a baby, Tasha would steal Marissa's teethers and Marissa would play with Tasha's toys

Tasha would never snatch chicken or coldcuts from your hand but would always snatch tissues and toilet paper

In typical husky behavior, Tasha would "woo, woo"

If you made Tasha unhappy, she would look at you and bite at the air as if to tell you off

Tasha had great furry cheeks which we called her "fuzzies"

Tasha was soooo smart that she failed dog obedience school. Everyweek during homework, she would refuse to do one task and during the final exam, she laid down and refused to follow one command

When we moved to South Carolina, Tasha actually backed away from a Palmetto bug

Tasha loved walks and especially liked to romp over pompous grass and let it rub her belly

When we got Snowball and we walked the two dogs together, Tasha peed on Snowy's head

Everyone would always ask, Is that a wolf?

Tasha would sleep under our bed (I refuse to look at the poodle sized hair bunnies)

When you told Tasha to "scootch" a ball, she would nudge it with her snout at you to play ball

Over the years, Tasha has been dressed in various costumes including "Princess Tasha" and "Devil Tasha"

Tasha would drink "tea" from the teacups at Marissa's tea parties

Tasha loved to go for car rides and hikes and when she was happy she looked like one of the doggies on the dashboards with the bobbing heads

Goodbye furry child. Let us meet again in Heaven. I'll bring the scotch and frosty paws! Miss ya.

I "Officially" Give Up!

2007-12-04T17:49:00.000-08:00

I have finally chosen to surrender. The white flag is not only up but is waving brightly. The dogs have WON! They officially run the house now.

Picture this....

Last two weeks - 13 year old husky, Tasha, is acting as if she is on death's door (not kidding, blood and everything!) This week, she has decided to compete with Snowball in mischief including trying to steal Marissa's breakfast.

The Latest ....

Upon exiting the bathroom today, I came upon Tasha chewing up our daughter's school calendar while Snowball is chewing the pen we use to write on it. Both items were on the fridge last time I noticed.

Snowball has left black ink pawprints all over the living room and kitchen and there are black marks on fireplace wall and kitchen wall. Her paws are BLACK. After I promptly put her in her crate, she has "stamped" her pawprints all over the bottom of the crate (which doesn't belong to us!)

Our house is nuts and it's gone to the dogs!

The Scoop / Poop on Snowball

2007-11-14T18:31:00.000-08:00

Since I am a devoted pet lover, Snowball is still living and breathing in our home. It all started a year ago...Life is good...Marissa's in Elementary School, Tasha is old and mellow and Margaret needs a new rescue project. Here is the face that started it all...

For the past year, life has not been the same. Sleeping in? Who wants to do that? NOT Snowball!

The favorite past time of choice is destroying items of value.

For amusement purposes, here is a list of items Snowy has consumed or destroyed.

Money (Bills and Coins)
Stuffed Animals
Remote Controls (yes, plural)
Jump Drives
Comforters
Envelopes
Birthday Party Invitations (yes, handmade)
Socks
Coloring Books
Pens
Tights
Shoes (to be fair...she only ate one of each pair)
Carpet
Towels
Mulch
Underwear
Chip Clip holder (including plastic and metal spring)
Tax Bill
Batteries
Throw Rugs
“Indestructible” Toys
Phone Cords
Carpet Padding
Bible (she actually pooped Proverbs!)
Tupperware
Lint Dryer Sheets
Bath Poof
Leashes
Fireplace Molding
Sheetrock
Wooden Furniture
Cable Cords
???