Please Pray

I'd just like to ask you a HUGE favor. Please keep my husband in your prayers. He was rushed to the ER on Thursday night. And has been in the ICU since. We're not sure what's wrong. And honestly, I'm incredibly scared.

We have such amazing support from our family and friends. They've been right here with us. Praying, looking out for my daughter and I, and just being here. What we need the most.

I am quickly posting this. From my daughter's cellphone. I just wanted to ask you, please say an extra prayer for my husband. We're strong believers in the power of faith. And prayer. I'll try to keep you updated, if not, please read my daughter's blog. I'm sure she'll post something from time to time.

Merry Christmas!

Sew Mama Sew Giveaway Day

I want to welcome everyone from Sew Mama Sew. I'm so excited that you returned to my blog. I really enjoyed the May 2010 Giveaway Day. I just knew, that I had to be a part of the the 2010 December Giveaway Day too!

I gave away a set of amigurumi animals last time. But this time around, I thought I would giveaway 3 of the silk scarves, that I recently made. They're spiral scarves. And I've also purchased a pin to go with each one.

This is an up close view of what the scarves look like. I wish I had a better camera to show you. But I really like how the scarves spiral around.

And here are the 3 scarves that I will be offering. A green and brown zebra pattern, a black and white zebra print, and a multi-toned blue scarf. Honestly, the tradition zebra print is my favorite.

Now how do you win?

1. Just leave me a message, with your favorite holiday recipe. Or a link to that recipe. I'm looking for some new dishes and desserts to add to our holiday celebration.

2. You have until December 19th at midnight. And if you follow my blog, I'll add in 5 more chances for you.

3. I will draw names. And the first person will get first pick, etc.

Good luck to everyone! Come back in January. I'm working on another amigurumi giveaway. I've got about half of the amis done. Don't forget to stop by my daughter's blog, my niece's blog, and one of my favorite little girl's blog. Good luck! And I hope to see you soon.

PS I have no clue what happened to my last 2 months worth of posts. They're showing as posted in my "Edit Posts" tab. But now that I'm checking my blog, I don't see them. I'll have to figure that out after work today.

Love Stitched

Craftaholics Anonymous is hosting a giveaway. For the Etsy shop, Love Stitched. They have some beautiful items. Those roses are just darling! For your chance to win a $25 shop credit, go enter this giveaway. And don't forget to check out their blog too!

Urban Rain

Do you see this beautiful scarf? I won it! From My Cakies. Urban Rain offered a $25 gift certificate in this giveaway. I never win anything. But I won this giveaway. I was so shocked!

It's beautiful. My favorite item from Urban Rain. And absolutely perfect for Fall!

I got this in the mail today!

There is a bit of a back story though. I emailed Ruby and a while later, Joanne emailed me. That email got sent to my Spam folder. And I just found it. Last Thursday. Months after the giveaway! So I emailed Joanne. And I was halfway expecting that I'd missed the boat.

No. Joanne was amazing! The $25 shop credit was still available. I picked the Clover Scarf. And it was in my mailbox today. Extremely fast! I would definitely recommend Urban Rain. The shop has some adorable items. And who can beat the incredible customer service and quick shipping?

Baby Animals

This is one of the cutest Free Patterns of the Day from Free Crochet. It's adorable! There are patterns for a bunny and a little bear. They also come with a basket and a blanket.

These little guys would be perfect as a Baby Shower present, or for Easter. Any little one would adore this pair. You can't go wrong when the pattern is free. Hurry and download it today!

Happy Birthday Dad

Today is my dad's 97th birthday! And even more shocking than that, he is in amazing shape. Better shape than most people half his age! As in, he still climbs the roof. And feeds his animals. I can only hope to live as long as my dad. And be in the great health that he is.

I thank God, for letting me have so much time, with my dad. He's such an amazing man. So loving. So caring. Just a great dad. And a great human being. He's the first man that ever loved me. And the first man that I ever loved. I really think that our relationship has helped me so much in life. He taught me how men should treat women. And I owe my marriage to my dad. What an amazing man!

I'm praying and wishing that my dad has an amazing day! That he enjoys his birthday. And has another year of health and happiness. Happy Birthday dad!

Busy

It's been so busy around here! We have a very long day today. Our company has inspection. That's why I'm baking a cake at 6:30am. It's been a busy couple of weeks. Just preparing. That on top, of our regular work schedule. It's been super busy around here.

And we have family that came into town on Thursday. We met them for dinner. Which turned into a late dinner. They were late. Very late. We didn't have dinner until almost 8pm. We're used to eating pretty early. At least before 6pm. Because we go to bed early. My husband starts working at 3am. And I'm there by 5am. So it was a late night, for a "work night." But we did enjoy ourselves. Lots of catching up. And we're looking for another dinner. It did make for a tough Friday though. Both my husband and I were extremely tired.

At the moment, I'm trying to get ready for Halloween. I'm making a costume for my daughter. I also need to decorate. I've been slacking on that. I'm also preparing for a holiday Craft Fair. I think I might have too much on my plate. At least at the moment.

Work is also very busy. This is the time of year, that it really picks up. Lots of out of town trips. Lots and lots of paperwork. And in general, just a lot of work. But we're going to get through it all. Before we know it, it's going to be Thanksgiving. And I'm going to wonder were the time has gone.

Thanksgiving Cornucopia

This is the perfect project for Fall! Something that can be displayed all season long. This cornucopia can also be the centerpiece of your Thanksgiving table. And it's today's free pattern from Free Crochet. I better start crocheting. I want to put this on our table this year.

Pretty in Pastels

Look at how adorable this pattern is. It makes me think of something, that I would have my for my daughter. When she was a toddler. It's so cute. And it's today's free pattern at Free Crochet.

Old-Fashioned Baby Sweater Set

This is the free patter from Free Crochet today. The Old-Fashioned Baby Sweater Set. I think it's adorable. Something you can make for a new baby. A special baby in your life. It's so delicate. And I think it would be cute in a baby green color.

This project is going on my list. I'd love to make this set in a few different colors. It's so delicate. And precious. This one, it might have to go him my "Hope Chest."

Incredible Sadness

I just got off the phone with my daughter. She is back east. Where she lives part time. The Guy and her had to rush off last night. They were going to come here for a quick visit. Today. But Hills got hurt last night. And that was much more important.

Hills was 9 days past her due date. I'm thinking, that is actually pretty normal for a 1st pregnancy. But she went into pretty active labor yesterday. Her midwife stayed with her all day. And last night, Hills' water broke. And they were on their way to the hospital.

Unfortunately, they were involved in a bad accident. They were hit by a drunk driver. The baby had to be delivered almost immediately. Now, Hill's and her little girl are in the ICU. In very serious condition. From what my daughter told me, they've both had 2 surgeries a piece. And this just saddens my heart. Worse, they are now 3 hours apart from one another. At hospitals specializing in each of their care.

Innocent lives should not be touched like this. This woman shouldn't have to be in a hospital hooked up to machines, fighting to live. Neither should her innocent baby girl. Please say some prayers for them. Hills is like my daughter. My daughter and Hills grew up together. And she spent so much time with us. We could use all the prayers we could get for these two innocent lives. Anything to get mom and baby healthy.

Multi-Stripes Bib

There are just some projects that make you smile. This bib, it's one of them. The bib is so simple. But there is something about it that makes me smile. I want to sit down right now, and make it. There is something about the stripes and the colors. Something vintage inspired. Go to Free Crochet today, to get the pattern.

Happy Birthday

Today is a very special day. Not just because it's October 10, 2010. I think that's incredible. But today is The Guy's birthday. He's my daughter's boyfriend. And I'm very grateful for him. He's taken care of my daughter for over 2 years. She's been through so much, in the last few years. And he's been so strong for her. He has also made my daughter so incredibly happy. That alone, makes me happy!

They travel a lot. Both of them work so hard. And this weekend, they happen to be in CA. Working. I wish that we could see them. Enjoy a nice dinner or something. But I understand. I just want The Guy to have an incredible day. One full of love and happiness. He deserves an amazing birthday. Not only is my daughter incredibly blessed to have him in her life, we are all blessed. Because he makes our lives better. Even if we've never met face to face. He's so special. Happy Birthday!

New Granddaughter

My husband and I have a new granddaughter! We actually just got back from the hospital. We went for a quick visit. Our granddaughter is a doll. She is just perfect. And looks so much like my husband's side of the family.

It's always so amazing when babies are born. It's a magical time in life. A new and innocent baby. A miracle. Our family is so blessed today. What a nice new beginning. Our granddaughter brings with her so much positive energy. And we just can't wait to see her grow up into a beautiful soul.

Lacy Delight

This is a pattern for a nice sweater. A lady's sweater. It's unusual to find a free pattern for an adult sized garmet. Especially one with such a nice stitch. I think it would be nice for Fall. When it's not too cold. But just cool enough for long sleeves. You can find the pattern at Free Crochet today. What a nice piece to make for yourself.

A Much Needed Break

This afternoon, my husband and I are going to our cabin. We have tomorrow off. It's "Fall Break." We can definitely use the time away. I'm also anxious to go visit my parents. They're getting ready to move. I'm ready to just enjoy them for a few days.

And I'm ready to be away from work. For a couple of days. And out of the city. At this point, you can feel the stress of the city. I'm ready for some relaxation. And time away from all of this.

We're not going to spend the entire weekend out there. But it's going to be a nice change of pace. Something that both my husband and I could use. And hopefully, we can come back more relaxed. Because we have quit a lot going on in the next few weeks.

I just need to finish packing. And we still need to go grocery shopping. Eventually we'll get it all done. And we'll be on the road. Well, after the work day is over. :)

In Bloom Set

Another favorite of mine is perfume. And fragrances in general. I recently ordered the In Bloom Set, from Avon. It was a special. I'm pretty sure I got the set for $25. There is a body spray, lotion, and shower gel. It's a great deal. In Bloom is also a very nice scent. Very light. It's fresh, but slightly floral. I am really enjoying this set. Eventually, I'd like to get the fragrance as well. But I'm going to wait until it goes on sale.

Making Scarves

I recently watched an episode of Sewing with Nancy. It inspired me. The episode was about scarves. There were some amazing scarves. The scarves only use about a half a yard of fabric! They are also super easy!

I went to JoAnn's today. To take advantage of my coupons. And the sales that they were having. I bought 4 or 5 different fabrics for these scarves. And when I got home, I got to work. I actually made 3. But 1 of them came out a bit wonky. I'm going to have to take it apart and sew it again. I realize now, it's because the fabric was cut crooked. But it's not a big deal.

I was upset though. My favorite fabric that I purchase, it had a rip in it. A pretty large one. I'm not sure what to do. Can you take it back to the fabric store? The worst is that it's in the middle of the piece, something that I couldn't hide in the scarf.

For the 3 scarves that I made, I used one technique. And I tried to do another. But I forgot part of the steps. Probably the most important step. When you turn the fabric. Does Sewing with Nancy post videos online? I found the book. And I'm thinking about buying it. It's only $15. And I'm sure there are many more projects inside.

Getting Excited!

Tomorrow is Hills' due date. She is expecting her 1st baby. A girl. Hills is my daughter's good friend. And she is super sweet. Also very excited about her new baby girl!

My daughter and I have spent the last few months making sweet things for "Baby C." We've been so excited. I almost feel like Baby C is my granddaughter. That's how close my daughter and her friend were growing up. So sweet.

I was a little upset at the beginning of the month. When Hills' Baby Shower was. I wish I could have gone. But it was across the country. And I had work. I was just not able to go. But I did send all of my gifts with my daughter. And I got to talk to Hills.

Tomorrow is the "Big Day." But I highly doubt that Baby C will come tomorrow. First babies generally come late. But I'm very excited. Like I said, it's like I'm awaiting my granddaughter. I really wish that we lived closer. Especially since Hills has asked my husband and I to be grandparents to her little girl.

She's had a tough time. Hills is going through a rather difficult divorce. Her family has not been very supportive of her. And right now, she is pretty much on her own. What a strong woman. If you just read a little of her blog, you will know what I mean.

We're all so excited. And sending lots of prayers and good thoughts their way. I'm also counting the days until January. When they both come for a visit. I can't wait to meet Baby C. And to catch up with Hills.

King George

I've always been a fan of country music. And of George Strait. "King George." All of his music just reaches my soul. It makes me so happy. His music from the 80s was my favorite. But all of it, makes my days brighter. Do you have a favorite artist, type of music, time in history when the music really spoke to you? For me, it will always be King George.

She Surprised Us

Our daughter surprised us today. She called this morning, which is pretty normal. And before she hung up, she told me to listen to the radio. There would be a surprise for my husband and I. I had not clue what it was.

As I listened to the radio, I started to get a little nervous. What was my daughter trying to tell us? Was she getting married? Was she expecting? All of the songs that were playing, they didn't help either.

But no. It was none of those things. I was somewhat relieved. But also a little disappointed. I'm ready to be a grandma! Until I heard her dedication. It was super sweet. Something special that she did for my husband and I. And I just want to tell her Thank you! It meant the world to both of us. We are so lucky to have you as our daughter. Your mom and dad are so proud of you. We love you more than you'll ever know!

Halloween Cover and Doily

Another cute Halloween pattern from Free Crochet. I'm thinking that this week's theme for the free pattern of the day, is Halloween. This one, I would definitely make. It's supposed to go over a candle holder. The glass bowl type that are sold at Wal-Mart. I really do enjoy this.

I'm going to make this. To put on my coffee table. I already have a similar glass bowl candle holder. It's painted though. No crochet. And it was a gift from my daughter. I think this would be nice to put there for the holiday.

Lil' Boo Bear

Look at this adorable Halloween pattern from Free Crochet. The Lil' Boo Bear is today's free pattern. I'm going to admit it. I have about a dozen of these bears in my craft room. My daughter and I used to craft with them years ago. At least 20 years ago.

I have all the supplies I need to make this pattern, I think I'm going to sit down and make a few. I think they would look nice in my front window. With some lights, they would make some fun decorations! And essentially, they would be free. Because I have all the supplies in my Craft Room.

Sadness

My husband and I just got some bad news. About our good friend. Someone who was like family to us. He past away yesterday...

He had been battling cancer. And PHA. But recently, he had gotten a worse diagnosis. He fought a long battle. Never giving up. Until the disease was just too much for his body to take. Yesterday, he went with the Lord.

What a difficult time this is. For all of us. All of his loved ones. The people that knew how. The people that he inspired. Everyone. This is such a shock. And a loss. What a huge loss!

We had to call my daughter. Who is out of town. I know that she was taking it hard. But she was trying to be strong. This was a friend and a mentor for her. Someone that she had looked up to for years. For most of her life.

It's going to be a difficult time for everyone. Especially for his family. His children are slightly older than my daughter. It's going to be hard for them. The only comfort that we all have from his passing, is that he is no longer suffering. Rest in Peace.

Wee Winter Warmers

The Wee Winter Warmers is today's free pattern from Free Crochet. I'm always at a loss for baby boy presents. I think this is going to be a nice addition to my pattern collection. This is a nice and quick present to make for a Baby Shower. And a pattern that I think you should go download.

State Fair and More

Today my husband and I went to the Fair. With our Car Club. It was a lot of fun. All of the cars were on display. And people really enjoying looking at them. The day was also really nice. The weather has been somewhat spotty lately. But today, it was a nice day.

We enjoyed lots of time with our friends. And we definitely enjoyed the sights and sounds. The Fair was scaled back this year. Due to the economy. But we still managed to enjoy ourselves. Even if 2 ice creams cost almost $15!

And after a full day at the fair, we went to our friends' jewelry store. They were having a big party. It's an annual party that they have. A BBQ included. Probably not the best time of year for it. But I did manage to win 2 door prizes. And again, we had fun.

To round out the day, my husband and I went to the Casino. Just to play a few machines. Nothing too crazy. We both took $20. We played. Ended up breaking even. And we also had dinner there. Right now, we are just getting home.

Now that I think about it, how did we do so much in 1 day? Especially since we didn't leave the Fair until almost 4pm. It amazes me how much we could get done. But it was a day full of fun and excitement! The only thing missing, was our daughter. Maybe next year she will get the chance to come. :)

Lacy Stars Afghan

This is today's free pattern from Free Crochet. The Lacy Stars Afghan. It's a pattern for a blanket made with squares. I really enjoy the colors, and the pattern. I'm just not sure about the mix of the two. I would like to make this in a more neutral pallet.

Sugar Plum Scarf & Ski Band

What a pretty scarf from Free Crochet. This is today's free pattern of the day. And I really do like the stitch. There is also a headband to go with this scarf. But the scarf is definitely my favorite. I think that this pattern would make some nice gifts for the holidays.

Sunflowers Lap Warmer

To me, nothing says the end of Summer, beginning of Fall like sunflowers! Around here, there are fields and fields of sunflowers that are blooming. It's so beautiful! Free Crochet's free pattern today, is for this blanket. Who doesn't want beautiful sunflowers in their home? This is a project that I'll probably put off until winter. But something that I really want to get to.

We'll Never Forget

9/11. It brings back so many memories. 9 years ago, my daughter moved out of the house. She was 18 years old. And on her own. Away at college. The moment that we saw the events unfolding, all my husband and I could think about was our daughter. And her safety.

That was a difficult day. It took us hours to get in touch. I could tell she was scared. We were scared. Our entire world changed that day. We all became victims.

But today, is not about our feelings. Or what changed us that day. It's about the lives that were lost. The families who never got to say goodbye. The men and women who sacrificed their own lives, just to help others.

That's what today is about. Remembering. Not the horror of that day. But the lives that were lost. The joy that they brought to the world. All of those people who had to lose their lives. Promising lives that were cut short.

On this day, every year, I pray for those people. For the families. For all of the loved ones who still feel that void. I pray for them. We'll never forget the day and the events of 9/11. Let's not forget the innocent people that were also lost.

Frosted Flakes

Today is Wednesday. The tough day of the week for me. It's "early day" for our company. But it's the day that I seem to have more work to do. And no time to do it in. I'm on the go all day long. Most Wednesdays, I'm lucky to get 5 minutes to sit down.

That's were Frosted Flakes come in. They're my favorite cereal. I know, I must sound like a child. But between stacks of paperwork and going to drive, I eat a bowl. On Wednesdays. It's my snack/lunch. The only thing that get me through the day.

I'm telling you. Wednesdays might be "early day." But it's the day I work the hardest. It's the day we eat dinner the latest. And the day I usually fall asleep watching TV. At 8pm. Frosted Flakes, they definitely help me get through the day!

I Watch This...

Do you promise not to judge me? Ok, then I'll confess. I really like to watch I Didn't Know I was Pregnant. It's my guilty pleasure. One night a week, I sit there and wonder how it's possible to not know, that you are pregnant. Isn't that the craziest thing ever?

I try not to miss this show. I've been watching it for months. My daughter and I talk about it. And the stories still shock me. But this is good TV. I find it interesting. And what else are you going to watch? There's not much on, until the end of the month. When all of the shows start up again. So I watch my favorite summertime show. And I really enjoy it!

Pearl's Cardigan

I came across this pattern at Lion Brand. There is something about it, that I really like. I'm not sure if it's the color, or the actual sweater. But I'd like to make it. In this rosy pink color. I enjoy crocheting clothing. But I haven't made myself anything in such a long time. This might just be that project, that I've been waiting for.

Driving South

What are you doing for the holiday weekend? My husband and I have decided to drive south. Just go spend a few days in the southern part of our state. No real plan or destination. Just a drive. And some time away from everything.

We have a few places that we want to stop. There is so much going on this weekend. Lots of festivals in the southern part of our state. I want to try and go to some of the Craft Fairs. And the Farmers' Markets. I think those will be the most fun.

I'm not sure what my husband has planned. Or where he'd like to visit. But there is so much to do this weekend. It makes me wish that the holiday weekend were more like 7 days, instead of 3.

I should probably get to packing. I don't really know what we're going to need. But we have to make stop at the store too. For snacks. No road trip is complete without them. This should be a fun and relaxing weekend. One that I'm very much looking forward to!

I Could Use...

I could really use a cup of tea, a warm blanket, and a good night's rest. It's been a crazy and busy couple of days. And I'm pretty sure, they're catching up with me. I'm very glad that this coming weekend is a holiday weekend. Both my husband and I can use the break.

Many people think that we have it easy. Because we own our business. But it's stressful. And very difficult. Something that takes so much time and energy. I'm not complaining. More of just getting it off my chest.

All I know, is that I'm exhausted. I haven't wanted to craft in days. And right now, I could easily go to bed. Fall dead asleep. Maybe I will do that. And just get up early in the morning. I'd probably do a better job with a little rest. But a cup of tea, it would be heaven!

Where Did My Lilies Go?

Sometime in the Spring, I planted about 5 Oriental Lily bulbs. And I've watered them all season. Along with some other bulbs. And even seeds for that matter. Yes, I made sure that they were all going in the right direction.



And by now, I should have some pretty blooms like these. Or at least a green plant. Heck, I'd settle for a sprout coming out of the ground. But I got nothing. Nothing at all! My other bulbs, they've all grown. Some of them have flowered. But not the Oriental Lilies.



It makes me wonder, what happened to my lilies? If all the others came up, were these bad bulbs? Was this a tough year? Because I lots of plants and flowers that didn't make it. Just from talking to family and friends.

This was the first year that I planted Oriental Lilies. But like I said, I've planted other lilies in the past. I have an entire flower bed filled with Tiger Lilies. But these lilies, they just don't want to grow. I'm wondering if our climate is just not good. Or maybe, it was just a tough gardening year.

Money Tree

This is a Money Tree. Not one that grows money. But it's called a Money Tree. About 15 years ago, one of our employees gave it to us for the holidays. A small one. Smaller than this one. And right now, it's taking over my office.

I had to re-pot it again. And I noticed how big it has gotten. Why am I so shocked? This tree has been in my office for a long time. But when you have to pick it up and move it, you can tell how big it has gotten.

Our Money Tree is now hitting the ceiling. And I'm wondering what we're going to do with it, as it continues to grow. Because I don't know where we will put it. The funny thing is, we just let it do it's own thing. I water it, maybe once a week. And it's right by the window. Who would have thought it would be this big? Or that it would have outlasted the employee that gave it to us!

Green Ribbon Booties

This is such a sweet pair of booties. And today's free pattern from Free Crochet. They're so delicate and frilly. Definitely a girly pair of booties. I think they would look darling in pink or purple. They would make such a sweet Baby Shower present.

Inspiration

This picture has inspired me. To get my Sewing Room in order. Well, as in order as I can get it, right now. Because when we remodeled our house, a couple of years ago, my Sewing Room got a little...well I have a door that needs to be closed off. And windows that need to be finished off, from the inside.

Yes, my Sewing Room is the only room that hasn't been remodeled. The light fell from the ceiling. I had to manage to get it back up. I'm almost positive, that it's not safe in it's current state. It's pretty bad. My husband and I were talking. It's the next and final room, for us to work on. I want to take out the old wood paneling. And I want to paint the walls a soft and cheerful color.

I want to get organized. I want to be very organized. Put things on my shelves. Have my supplies easily available. That's what I want. Because right now, it's not a functioning space. And that saddens me.

How bad is it? My sewing machine and my serger are in another room. I do most of my sewing in our kitchen or living room. And it stresses me out. Because I feel like it makes a big mess. So I want to get my Sewing Room in order.

Now I just need to make some time. And I really need to attack this space. Because I'm tired of losing my supplies. And having to repurchase things. I'm ready to have a room all to myself again. I miss the days, when I would lock myself in my Sewing Room, and would sew for hours and hours!

Dreaming of...

I've been dreaming of Cherry Limeades. The sugary drink from your neighborhood Sonic. I know that it's bad. But I haven't had one in months. Literally months. It could easily be a year.

Why? I don't know. I just haven't been to Sonic is so long. And there is no excuse. Because there is one down the road. 2 minutes from our house. We pass it 3-4 times a day!

I'm on a mission, to have a Cherry Limeade this week. Or at least by the end of summer. I really miss them! Yum. Is it bad that I want one this early in the morning?

My Little Angel Doll

Today's free pattern from Free Crochet, is My Little Angel Doll. I think these would be cute little dolls to make as gifts. Maybe something for the holiday season. And they are very simple to make. You can use up lots of scraps from your stash. Hurry up and get the pattern today!

Tropical Sunshine Flatcakes with Orange Cream

I found this picture this morning. I was searching for a quick cake recipe. But this picture, it caught my eye. And it lead me to this recipe. This just sounds very delicious. With the late summer fruit, I think this could be a very magical breakfast. I'm definitely going to save this recipe. And hopefully when my daughter comes to visit, she will make this for us. She's a better cook with recipes like this. :)

Nail Polish

I've never really been a makeup person. Or someone who spent a lot of time on my hair. But my nails, that's a whole other story.

I grow out my nails. Most people think they are the fake ones. But they're not. They're mine. I probably polish my nails 3 times a week. I use all sorts of nail polish. Nothing too expensive. Mostly the kind you can buy at Wal-Mart or Target. 2 of my favorite brands are Avon and Sally Hanson.

They're just great quality. Lost a long time. And come out with some nice colors. Yes, I'm that woman that orders 4 bottles of nail polish and 2 pairs of shoes from Avon. And no makeup. But I just love all the fun colors of nail polish.

I recently found this page with these beautiful nail polishes. And I've fallen in love! I feel like I need to go to Wal-Mart right away. And buy a few of these. I like all the colors! Maybe just maybe, I can collect them all before they discontinue this set of colors.

Church Fiestas

This weekend our church had their annual Church Fiestas. It was a lot of fun. Even with the very "moody" weather. During the day, it was so hot. In the upper 90s! And in the evening, it would get cool, windy, and rain. Yes, it would rain. Not the best weather for an outdoor fiesta. But it happens every year. And we learn how to sit out the weather.

On Saturday, my husband and I were in the parade. We have an old car. And we really enjoy being in the parade. My brother and sister in law were also in the parade. We had invited a few friends to join us. Unfortunately, they didn't come. But we had lots of family there. And lots of friends too. We always catch up with old friends and family.

The food was good too. And there was some good entertainment. Not as much as normal. But still very good. Same with the food. It wasn't as good as in years past, but it was good. And we ate a lot. I'm probably good for a few days. Do you get that way? You eat so much, in a short amount of time, that you lose your appetite for a few days. That's how I feel.

But we had a great time. We spent most of the weekend at the Fiestas. We ate most of the weekend. And I even managed some shopping. There was a Silent Auction. With lots of nice things. I ended up bidding on, and winning, 5 copper bracelets, a pair of earrings, and a rosary. All for under $50. A good deal, considering I've paid up to $60 for a single copper bracelet, in the past.

We had a lot of fun. But I'm exhausted now. I need a day or 2 to recover. But this is a weekend that we look forward to every year. Just seeing old friends and being a part of the community is so fulfilling. Something that my husband and I definitely enjoy.

Coca-Cola Fabric

I've been looking for some Coca-Cola fabric. For a long while. But I haven't been able to find any. I remember seeing it at JoAnn's and Hobby Lobby at one time. But now that I need it, I can't find it.

Do you know of any place I can buy some? I'm looking for about 1/4 yard. Not too much. I'm making an apron for a friend. One of those ruffled ones. I have the other fabric. But I need the Coca-Cola fabric. That's the theme of her kitchen. If you've seen it anywhere, or know where I can find it, please let me know. I would be so grateful!

Happy Birthday

Today is a special day. I young man, that I've known his entire life, is turning 30 today. We're all very proud of Dr. LS. Who happens to be a neurosurgeon. And very successful. A young man that I watched grow from that little t-ball player, into the man that stole my daughter's heart. It's amazing how quickly kids grow up. Before you know it, they're grown ups. Working hard. Making a life for themselves.

Dr. LS we're all proud of you! Happy Birthday. Enjoy the day. And enjoy what God has given you. You're blessed because you bless so many other lives.

Urban Rain Giveaway

How would you like to win $25 to Urban Rain. Do you see how lovely their items are? My Cakies is hosting a giveaway for a $25 gift certificate. A really good deal. Go enter!

Apron and DVD Giveaway

Sweet Megan from Crochet Every Day is doing a giveaway on her blog. It just lasts for a few more hours. And you have the chance to win an apron, or a DVD. I say hurry up and go enter. While you're there, take a look at some of the beautiful things she is making. I'm very impressed!

Cloud Soft Cover-Up

I happened to find this pattern at Crochet Soiree. I also happened to notice that my daughter blogged about it too!

I think this is a beautiful blanket to make for any baby. I think this is another blanket that you can make in a large variety of colors. If done in white, it would be perfect for a baby shower. Especially if you don't know the sex of the baby. I'm really liking this design. So much so, I'm printing it off right now. And going through my crochet stash. You know, so I can start it right away.

Orange Hummingbirds

Do you see that little guy? He seems harmless. even cute. We have 2 of them. And they are fighting with all of the other hummingbirds. They beat up on them.

Yesterday morning, I literally had to stand outside and watch the birds. These 2 orange birds were following me around. I was trying to water our trees. We have pinon and pine trees. These birds were falling me around. Like if they were ready to attack.

But they beat up on the other hummingbirds. Even the big ones. I feel so bad for the little babies. They try so hard to eat. But these big orange guys, they keep beating up on all of the other birds. So I googled them. And I found this article. Doesn't give me much hope. I don't know what I'm going to do.

Coffee Table Topper

Another lovely doily from Free Crochet. This is today's free pattern. And I really like it. I have a soft spot in my heart for doilies. And for the pineapple stitch. This is definitely going on my to-make list.

Now I just need to get to Hobby Lobby. I want to make this for my living room coffee table. I really like the pineapple stitch. And this looks like such a great pattern.

I've gotten a few messages about doilies. They're not hard to make. Working with the small crochet needles and thread isn't too bad. You just have to worry about your tension. Your stitches have to be pretty uniform. But it's not hard. Then you can always block your doily when you finish.