From Captain's Daughter to Army Mom

Food Blog Forum at Disney's Grand Floridian, Orlando... LOVED IT!

2013-05-18T12:04:00.000-04:00

I'm here at Disney's Grand Floridian for Food Blog Forum 2013!

We've been to the Hotel del Coronado in

San Diego, which inspired this masterpiece by Disney!

Not a bad place to spend a weekend, at all!

I love the view!

Army dad and I spent the morning at the Magic Kingdom before his flight

home so I had to make a mad dash into my room to freshen up before...

The FBF cocktail reception!

The food was incredible!

After the cocktail reception and on my way to the monorail station, I

bumped into the Basin White store on the second floor of the hotel!

Of course I had to stop...

Wash my hands, sample some scrubs and of course, sniff!

I couldn't believe how much less expensive the bath bombs I love so

much are here versus what I pay for them at the Lush store at home!

So I grabbed SpaBoy and we tore it up! The best part of stocking up on

the best bath bombs and scrubs I've ever smelled was the free shipping

and no sales tax because our purchases were shipped outside of Florida!

I may have went a little crazy!

After Basin White, we headed back over to

the Magic Kingdom for a little night-time fun!

Still loving Cinderella's Castle!

This morning after breakfast it was time for a full day of FBF! I met so

many bloggers that were new to me and also got to meet up with some of

the bloggers I met last year at Mixed! The information presented and shared

was incredible. Better than that, Jaden's two beautiful sons participated too!

Lunch was an event all unto itself!

We got to paint our own Nemo's!

And then eat it!

No one does dessert like Disney!

Now, please excuse me while I return to the conference, learn more and then end

the evening with a Fantasmic! Dessert reception at Disney's Hollywood Studios!

Walt Disney World and Universal Studios... A full day of fun!

2013-05-16T23:54:00.000-04:00

Greetings from Orlando!

While it was terribly difficult to leave my dear brother in Cape Coral,

there is a Food Blog Forum waiting for me in Orlando this weekend!

So we said our see-ya-laters and we headed

back to Orlando where our first stop was...

The magic kingdom!

While my heart will always and forever belong to Disneyland...

I do admit Cinderella's Castle at Walt Disney World is pretty magical!

After a brief stay at the kingdom...

We headed over to Epcot to check out

the Flower Show sponsored by HGTV!

It was splendid!

Of course, my gardener was quick to point out that...

Given more money, he could do the same for me!

I told him he's doing just fine!

We worked up quite an appetite park-hopping so we went to dinner in Germany!

After Epcot we headed over to Universal...

Because although I can't tell you much about Harry Potter...

I can tell you I've wanted to check out his
castle since I saw the first commercial for it!

The village did not disappoint!

I loved the scenery!

The charming village with its crooked little houses...

Reminded me so much of old-world Europe!

Which I do believe is the point!

Oh, there it is!

I was so excited to get there...

Only to learn that if you thought you were going to actually walk through the

doors of the castle, you're highly mistaken! Turns out, Harry's castle is one of

those magical things you only see. Sure, there is a ride but it's in a regular old

building underneath. Huge let down, it was. But hey there were other things...

Such as students with their singing frogs!

And, shops... This one, filled with candy!

Pretty candy...

All sorts of candy!

Including chocolate frogs!

There was also a smiling wizard who didn't mind American Express!

What more could one ask for?

Except to tour the castle and experience it up close...

Still, the surrounding landscape is beautiful...

And, worth seeing!

On our way around the castle scene, we ran into this family of ducks!

They were very busy with the popcorn from a nearby vendor...

After all that popcorn it was time for a drink!

So cute!

After all the popcorn droppings outside was claimed...

It was time to retrieve more from the source!

Even mom got in on the fresh supply!

Aside from missing my brother and wish my

parents were with us, today was a pretty decent day!

A couple of cookie projects!

2013-05-15T01:20:00.000-04:00

I still cannot get over how busy April was around

here... Or how crazy May has already been!

Around the beginning of April, we decided to slowly begin the long overdue

remodel of the bathroom the boys once used. We dilly-dallied around, making

choices based upon what we could find at surplus stores and our local Habitat

for Humanity Re-store. We have remodeled every inch of this house, always

disregarding the possibility that things could be found for less than top dollar...

So this time, I thought I'd make it more interesting and a little more fun

by finding ways to save as much money as I could. And, I did surprisingly

well! I found a whirlpool bathtub that retails for $1,700 for only $425 at

a building supply surplus outlet and, a beautiful Kohler wall mounted

sink at the Habitat for Humanity Re-store for only $45. When I looked

it up, I saw that the faucet retails for $425 and the sink lists for $725!

But while I was out spending all my free time bargain shopping and

dreaming about my new spa bathroom, there were forces at work that

quickly changed my focus from finding things as they came along to

scrambling to find everything within 5 minutes! First, a dear friend

asked if I would create 60 number two cookies for her adorable son's

second birthday. You already know I can't resist little people. Or parties!

So I dropped shopping for the bathroom redo and pulled out my rolling

pin! Then, two days after the walls came down in the bathroom, my mom

and dad called to say they would be visiting about a month sooner than we

expected. Which instantly meant we had less than 3 weeks to pull together

a complete remodel of a full bathroom! When I explained my time-table to

the electrician I hired, he actually told my husband there was no way anyone

could complete a full bathroom remodel in three weeks! The glass guy told us

the same thing and, so did the marble guy! I began to worry... But guess what?

My guy got it done! There was only moments to spare... But it's done!

My parents pulled into our driveway at 3:04PM on Friday April 26th...

Which was exactly 12 minutes after the glass guy pulled out of our

driveway after installing the custom tub/shower screen I designed!

We had a wonderful visit with my mom and dad... Especially since

all four of us weren't sharing the master bathroom! But during our

visit, I received an e-mail from a friend asking if I would create some

save-the-date cookies for an announcement scheduled to be made to

her whole family on Mother's Day! Of course I said I would. Mostly

because my mom is my biggest fan and, she has always wanted to see

how I make cookies. We even whipped up some cupcakes for my dad! By

the way, have you tried Cool Whip frosting yet? If not, you really should!

My favorite is the cream cheese... It's so good!

My dad loved the cupcakes! And, my mom enjoyed making cookies with me!

Sadly, mom didn't get to see me decorate them because

she and my dad left to go back home just before Mother's Day!

But we have a standing date to decorate cookies

together the next time my mom is here. I can't wait!

I have to tell you... These weren't your usual save-the-date cookies!

You see, while I assumed my friend wanted these cookies for

an engagement party she was throwing for her brother... She

and her husband actually used them to announce the due date for

their first baby! At a party they hosted on Mother's Day, no less!

Can you imagine a better announcement on Mother's Day?

The new mommy asked for a calendar cookie and said I must only

use white, gray and yellow because they are her nursery colors!

I delivered these cookies just under the wire! I rushed home

from work on Friday night, printed off these tags my mom and

I designed together and rushed the cookies to my friend's mom

who agreed to meet me at the movie theater where Army Dad

and I had a date to see Gatsby! And, by the way... Save yourself

the money and wait for the DVD. I was very disappointed with

all the computer-generated scenery in the film. Everything was

so obviously flat/fake that it became very annoying, very quickly!

The show we saw Sunday made up for it though because we spent my

Mother's Day with Carol Burnett in Durham and, she was wonderful!

Added to the bathroom and cookie projects was the replacement of

the pool liner and, tomorrow... While you're reading this, I'll be on

a flight bound for Orlando. You see, Jaden Hair of Steamy Kitchen,

(yes, that Jaden!!) invited me to attend her Food Blog Forum, hosted

again this year by Disney! And, since my brother lives in Cape Coral,

Army Dad and I are extending the trip to include a long overdue visit!

I'm so looking forward to a slow June! Oh! Before I let you go, I have

to tell you about a new surprise I found in the garden this evening!

You know those baby birds I discovered in the rose bush by the pool on Saturday?

They opened their eyes today! Also, while I could only

see two babies the other day... A third was revealed tonight!

Of course their dad still wasn't too happy with my snooping!

I just hope they haven't flown away by the time I get back from Florida!

Spring Garden Secrets!

2013-05-11T18:44:00.000-04:00

It's Mother's Day weekend...

Which happens to always be my favorite

weekend of Springtime in our gardens!

There are two reasons this is my favorite weekend of Spring...

One of the reasons you can plainly see...

And the other is hidden from pain view!

The reason you can see is the azalea hedge on the side of the house. It has

never failed to be in full bloom on Mother's Day! When we bought the house

this hedge was already ten years old but it was less than five feet tall and there

were hardly any blooms. The problem was that whomever planted these azaleas

put a layer of thick plastic around them, covering the whole planting bed. Of

course, this helped keep the weeds down but it also kept the plants from

getting what they needed to thrive. Once all the plastic was ripped out,

this hedge took off. You couldn't tell where one plant started and

another ended! The hedge shot up, covering the whole side of the

house and shot out about three feet too. And the blooms...

Well, see for yourself... It's a built-in Mother's Day bouquet!

The same thing happened after the plastic was removed from

around the Japanese maple in the front yard. It's doubled in

size each year. You won't find plastic anywhere in our gardens!

And that's, as they say... A good thing!

The wisteria sure is coming along this weekend!

My mom loved the wisteria at Biltmore last

week... I sure wish she was still here to enjoy mine!

The waterfall Japanese maple in the

front yard has taken off this spring too!

Of course, this is still the show-stopper...

But this one is catching up fast!

The second reason Mother's Day weekend is my favorite weekend

of spring isn't as obvious but it's definitely happening all around me!

There are bluebirds tending to their new babies there in the

bird house near the front door... And, there's a mockingbird mom

busily feeding her chicks up here in the Yoshino cherry tree!

I love birds! And, knowing we provide them with everything they

need to live here and nest and, bring forth new life thrills me!

I'm also thrilled by variegated weigela!

I saw this in a one gallon pot at the Farmer's

market two years ago and had to have it!

It's very happy in this spot along the fence by the road...

The bees love it too!

I think we need more weigela in our garden!

Last year, we added this Wine and Roses Weigela! I initially believed
this was a Cardinal Weigela; however, my gardener set me straight!

Speaking of Cardinals...

The rose bush hedge in front of the pool is in full bloom this weekend too!

I'll have tiny roses in the hanging vase above the sink all summer!

The other day when the pool liner was being installed there was

a sweet cardinal pair that wouldn't leave the workers alone. They

buzzed everyone that got too close to the rose bush by the gate...

And this morning, while cutting roses for my vase I figured out why...

I discovered their secret in my garden!

There are few things in the garden sweeter than baby birds!

Their daddy is never far away!

He works very hard to feed his new family!

Happy mother's day to you, cardinal mommy!

I love spring!

As cute as some things are in our late-spring gardens...

Others are not-so-cute...

I'm talking about cicadas!

The first time I ever heard them I was five years old. We

were living in Kansas while my dad was in Vietnam...

My brother and I called them the wee-you bugs because that's

what they sounded like they were saying to us from high up in the

trees. Fortunately, cicadas are only creepy looking. They are in no way

harmful to our gardens. Since birds, squirrels and mice eat them... I say the

more the merrier. Maybe they'll keep the squirrels out of our bird feeders!

I hope you're having a beautiful spring...

And, mother's day too!

While I'm missing my parents now that they've returned home and our Ranger

is far away on a training mission preparing for his upcoming deployment...

I'm actually looking forward to mother's day tomorrow...

Because we have a date with the incomparable, Carol Burnett!

I've always loved Carol Burnett so to get to see her is wonderful!

What about you? Any secrets revealing themselves in your garden this spring?

Swimming Pool Liner Replacement!

2013-05-09T19:24:00.000-04:00

Last fall, after winterizing the pool and covering it up, we

knew this would be the year we would have to replace the liner!

Which was fine with me, because I've been ready for a change in my

pool scenery for a few years now. However, since pool liners aren't

necessarily cheap, I did agree to wait until we really needed one...

Finally, my wish came true last year when we noticed tiny pin-holes forming

on the top edge of the liner where it gets the most sun. When I began making

calls to contractors about a replacement, they all asked how old our existing

liner is. And, when I told them twelve years, all of them were quite impressed!

No one believed we got 12 years out of a 20mil pool liner. But it's true! Of
course, credit goes to my personal pool-boy because it is due to his expert
ability to manage water chemistry that's kept our liner healthy. Without
proper chemistry, pool liners deteriorate more quickly. But as you can

see, our liner was still in great shape where the sun didn't beat it down!

The whole liner pool thing was new to me... I mean, after the Captain

retired and relocated from Germany to Kansas when I was fourteen, he

and my mom sunk a pool in our backyard. But it was all concrete... See?

Also, pools in California don't have liners either. So when we moved

here and immediately realized we wouldn't survive North Carolina

summers without one and, we were told this is how it is done in this
area of the country, I was quite skeptical. Sure, you'll never stub your
toes or skin your chin on the bottom of the pool like my brother and I
seemed to do constantly playing in our Kansas pool... However, looking
at it, a liner pool seemed a bit like an above-ground pool you just buried!

But it's not. And, there are lots of advantages to this kind of pool... First, there

is the vermiculite bottom, which feels like cork and is very comfortable to walk

on and, the matter of not having to make repairs after a hard freeze like you may

have to do with an all-concrete pool. And, probably best of all, you get to change

the look of your swimming pool when the time finally comes to replace the liner!

Which is exactly what happened today!

We weren't given a choice for the thickness of the liner when we built the pool, but

this time I chose a 28 mil to help slow down fading and sun deterioration. Now,

some contractors tried to talk me out of the thicker liner, saying it was both more

expensive and more difficult to install. However, only I say how I spend my money

and anyone that tells me I'm making their job harder isn't the guy I want in my pool!

It took a while, but I finally found the perfect contractor for me. He was more

expensive than all the other guys. But like most things, you get what you pay for!

Another decision that had to be made was whether or not to install wall foam under

the new liner. Some contractors said they didn't recommend it, telling me it could

hold water against the steel walls of our pool and promote rust and, another one

told me wall foam can slip over time, causing wrinkles on the walls. However,

after discussing it with the contractor I eventually hired, I learned that wall foam

has improved over the years and the newer material doesn't hold water and, if

installed correctly, it can't slide down the walls at all. Installing wall foam adds

a couple of hundred dollars to the cost of the liner replacement; however, it also

provides a cushion and protective barrier between the steel walls and vinyl liner...

So after weighing all the pros and cons, I went with the wall foam!

By the way, after the old liner came out our contractor complimented us on our
choice of pool builders because he said it's the most even and well constructed
pool he's seen in a long time. Also, the condition of the floor and walls was great!

There were just a few spots on the floor in the shallow end he wanted
to smooth to make it perfect. We all know what a big fan of perfect I am!

Here comes the new liner!

As soon as I saw the samples I knew exactly which liner I wanted!

Of course, when I called to tell my guy which liner I chose, he immediately told
me that I picked the one that would cost him $300 over the price he quoted...

Then, he asked me if I wanted to make another selection...

And, I told him I'd rather just give him the $300 to have my first choice!

Because the Destination Series, Monterrey was definitely the liner for me!

I do know it's named for the Monterrey in Mexico and not my Monterey...

But it's still the prettiest 28 mil replacement swimming pool liner available! I
especially love the fact that there will be color on the side of the walls, which we
didn't have before. Also, the mosaic pattern will add lots of sparkle to the water!

What's a few extra hundred dollars for sparkle? Besides, I'm going to be
married to it for another twelve years, so I may as well have what I like!

Also included in the price to replace the liner was all new fittings around the

returns, skimmer box and auto-pool cleaner connection. Oh, and a new drain!

After nearly two weeks of rain, today was a perfect day to install a pool liner!

In fact, standing here taking these photos at high-noon, it was 82 degrees...

Which made me wish the pool was filled and I didn't have to go back to work!

All in all... Today was a good day!

The installation went flawlessly!

And, the fill is happening! The only thing left was to rescue a little mouse

that wasn't paying attention to where he was going and fell into the pool!

Of course, you know me. So...

I carried him into the solarium to introduce him to Leo!

Silly mouse!

Curious cat!

Adorable pair!

A huge thank you to Mickey Ernhardt and his crew for

his expertise and their care in restoring our swimming pool!

Scrabble Tile Cookies

2013-05-05T21:44:00.000-04:00

When a dear friend at work asked if I would create cookies for a party

she's having this week, I couldn't wait to hear what she had in mind!

Little did I know that her idea would inspire such feelings of jealousy!

You see I love to play Scrabble...

But no one will play with me. Army dad thinks it's boring. He

prefers to play Risk, which I find rather pointless; therefore,

there's been this board game stalemate between us for 28 years!

I haven't played since I took my Scrabble set to German class during

my senior year of high school... Which feels like a billion years ago!

So when my friend Kathy said she was hosting a scrabble party

and wanted cookies to match the theme, I almost invited myself!

But I didn't. Instead, I spent a little extra time arranging her

cookies until I scored the highest number of points that I could!

Because I'm a hard-up Scrabble nerd like that!

Vacationing at Home!

2013-05-03T19:14:00.000-04:00

A friend at work asked if I would create some save-the-date cookies...

And, although I have mom and dad here and I have vowed to take the

spring and summer off from baking, I couldn't stand the thought of

saying no... So, mom and I spent the day in the kitchen together!

Can you say fun?!

Not only that... Between batches of cookies we escaped to the yard!

Mom even zipped around on the mower for a while!

While I took in the sight of brand new blooms!

These purple and white bearded irises SpaBoy and I

picked out at Boose Family Farm last spring...

Are knocking me out!

In between cookie batches, mom and I baked some butter pecan cupcakes for dad!

He bought cupcakes at the Farmer's Market last weekend and, I almost fell over!

Who buys cupcakes from some random woman at the Farmer's Market?

Dad said, he does... Especially when there are no
cupcakes waiting for him at his daughter's house!

Fair enough... But today, there are no more excuses!

By the way, while the cupcakes are from scratch, the frosting isn't!

I finally got my hands on that new Cool Whip frosting and, it's
amazing! I expected it to be super-sweet but it's not. It's delicious and,
just as creamy, fluffy and easy to pipe as homemade frosting. Step away
from the stand mixer... Forget the mess and fuss and grab the Cool Whip!

I know... Frosting from a tub goes against our baker's code;

however, when you're busy banging out five dozen cookies while

trying to get in some quality garden time too, you do what you

must to keep your dad away from the corner cupcake pushers!

Springtime at Biltmore and exploring Looking Glass Falls with Mom and Dad!

2013-05-02T11:54:00.000-04:00

The very first excursion we all agreed upon when mom and dad finally

arrived last week was Biltmore! It's such a special place any time of year...

But it's especially magical in Springtime!

I cannot remember exactly... I think this is visit number thirty-eight but

each time we visit I notice something new that I cannot wait to see again!

This time, we visited on a Wednesday, which was fantastic

because it felt like we had the whole place to ourselves!

Just the four of us and... Our staff. Ha!

The last time mom and I stood in this spot

it was the summer of her 70th birthday!

Nearly a year and a half later, these two ladies are just as stunning!

Oh, this view!

Name one thing better than spring at Biltmore!

Besides winter, summer and fall at Biltmore!

As we walked through the gardens at Biltmore...

I noticed that it seemed the house was following us...

And, watching us!

Reminding us to be sure not to miss anything!

Because there truly is much to see!

Of course, my favorite view always includes my mom and dad!

They loved it... Again!

But then again... There's a lot to love here!

If only I could convince them to trade their paradise for mine!

As much as I love living here in North Carolina...

And, as convincing as my arguments for

wanting them to move closer usually are...

The truth is that my parents live in paradise!

Even I concede that the Monterey Peninsula is

as close to heaven as one can get here on earth!

So I've learned to give up on the dream of

having mom and dad move to North Carolina...

Refocusing my energies into convincing them to visit more often...

And of course, stay longer!

So far I've managed to get them here twice in six months...

And, we've gone from ten days to almost two weeks!

So... It looks like...

My plan is working!

I'm no dummy!

After Biltmore we ventured into Pisgah National Forest!

I love the mountains and I especially love waterfalls!

Since Looking Glass Falls is one of the few North Carolina

water falls that doesn't require a long hike to get to it, we felt it

was the perfect choice after our long day of walking at Biltmore!

Of course, that didn't stop mom and me from exploring it to the end!

Because the view just gets better the closer you get!

See what I mean?

Mom's always up for one of my adventures!

Our guys... Not so much!

But that's okay because photos are for sharing!

Looking glass falls is on our list to visit again!

In summer time...

Without shoes or socks!

What do you think?

I think it's a grand idea!

I cannot wait to see what's around the next corner!

Happy Spring to you!

Exploring Reynolda House and Gardens with Mom and Dad!

2013-05-01T18:27:00.000-04:00

Reynolda house is just down the road from our own so we've been many

times. We first explored it in 2008 and then went back for the holiday

candlelight tour before our anniversary trip to the Grove Park...

However, since mom and dad have never been to Reynolda house...

And, since it's especially pretty in spring...

We thought it was high time we took them!

They loved the house but mom loved the

gardens more... Especially the white azaleas!

Oh, and the wisteria too!

We're on wisteria watch at our house because it hasn't popped yet!

Reynolda House and Gardens is such a treasure!

The garden and walking trail is open 365 days

a year and it's such a lovely place to take a stroll!

I especially enjoy it when everything is blooming...

And, when the gift shop in the growing house is open!

Following our tour of Reynolda house and gardens we had a quick bite

to eat at Qdoba and then rushed home to spend some time in our own

gardens before the day was over. Imagine how happy I was to see this!

Seems that we've got a whole little family of bunnies living right in our

front yard between the English boxwood hedge and the Japanese maple!

So far we've seen three babies and their mommy too!

I hope they tell their friends so that we'll have more bunny tenants!

I say... The more, the merrier!

Of course, my gardener has a different opinion on the matter!

Good thing he's not in charge around here!

In charge of the landscaping... Absolutely!

In charge of the wildlife that comes, stays or goes... Not so much!

It's all about balance. Right?

Usually when mom and dad visit we can't wait to hit the road... Last year we

took them to Monticello and Mount Vernon and had a fantastic time!

However, during this visit we looked more forward to

staying closer to home and enjoying things nearby...

And, it doesn't get any closer than our own backyard!

So far, we've walked the gardens every morning and every evening!

Because there's always something new to see!

We even catch sweet birdies napping!

Who can blame them though...

This is after all the busiest time of year for them!

Just before our walk ended this evening it began to rain...

I love it when it rains...

It washes away the heavy spring pollen...

And, the rain makes everything just a touch prettier!

But when the rain gets too much and chases us away...

We just dash into the solarium and watch the garden from inside...

Where it's nice and dry!

What I Saw Outside Today!

2013-04-21T20:14:00.000-04:00

Special company is on the way...

Which meant I spent the morning standing at the kitchen sink!

Polishing copper and shining up the silver!

After the silver and copper fest, I got busy washing all the crystal and flatware...

Which took me to dusting every surface in the house!

After the surfaces, I began organizing piles here and there...

And, before I knew it, the house was spotless...

But the morning and afternoon were gone!

So I rushed outside to ensure I didn't miss

another minute of this glorious Spring day!

Of course, I took two rolls of paper towels

and my bottle of Windex with me...

Because there were windows to clean!

And, so...

While the birds sang...

And the wind chimes played to the breezes...

And the chipmunks gorged on the birdseed I put out...

And Leo lounged in the solarium, I cleaned windows!

Until the setting sun made them sparkle like diamonds!

After the windows were clean I took a walk around through Spring!

I cannot wait for my parents to get here!

It'll be their first visit during spring time...

Normally, they visit in the Fall, which isn't a bad time of year either!

But there's something special about spring!

I cannot wait to show them Spring time in North Carolina!

The plan is to take them back to Biltmore in Asheville...

And then continue further into the mountains

and show them Highlands and Cashiers...

The shopping there always reminds me of Carmel...

Which will make them feel right at home!

So how is your spring shaping up where you live?

I hope it's green...

And pink and purple too!

Really purple!

Like this!

And that you have plenty of time to enjoy it!

And all that's about to follow!

Spring has Sprung... Finally!

2013-04-18T21:24:00.000-04:00

What seemed like an endless winter has finally broken!

Because today... All signs point to Spring!

Here where I live, one must pay close attention to spring because dramatic

changes can occur within just a few days. For example, this was Monday...

And, Poof... This is today!

The colors of Spring come on very fast, which is perfectly fine by me!

I just don't want to blink and miss any of it!

If it were up to me, spring and fall
would be twice the seasons they are!

Now, don't get me wrong...

I love summer too... But only when I'm floating in my pool!

I even feel affection for winter... But only when it's snowing!

The humidity and pesky mosquitoes of summer... Those you can keep!

And, the naked trees and shorter days of winter... Kindly keep them too!

However, as I am constantly reminded by my
wonderful gardener, I cannot have all of this...

Without enduring proper summers and winters!

Every time I begin to miss the brand new, (and perfectly level) home

we owned in California I look at this tree and remember that living

in an older home has advantages too... Like a mature landscape!

This tree knocks me out each year. It's amazing how much it's grown since we

moved here. The English boxwoods Army dad put in complement it perfectly!

So until I can pick it up and take it with me... I'm not moving!

What was most impressive to me as I walked the property around

our home this evening was that Army dad was able to get the lawns

mowed. You see, he's been up to his eyeballs in a major renovation

inside the house. He's been working non-stop for two weeks and, do

let me tell you... He has made no secret of the fact that he'd rather be

outside minding his spring gardens. There is also the matter of the

pool that needs his attention too. Because after nearly twelve years,

it is time to replace the liner. Therefore, the pool has to be drained

this weekend before the contractor can measure for the new one!

The best news of this glorious spring is that my parents are on their way! The
reason they are on the east coast makes me very sad and worries me a lot;
but as soon as they finish being angels to someone I cannot live without, they

will be here with me to enjoy some well deserved rest. And, I cannot wait!

I should have some fun before and after photos to show you of the

room that's being transformed just for me very soon. So do stay tuned!

In the meantime, I invite you to enjoy the green outside with me...

Because that room I just mentioned inside...

It's 65 square feet of disaster!

That very soon I hope will be my spa-bliss!

You are my Sunshine Cookies for a Special Girl!

2013-04-14T13:04:00.000-04:00

A dear friend at the office asked if I might be interested in creating happy

sunshine cookies for her daughter's first birthday... Of course, I said Yes!

After all, this wasn't just any first birthday... This was a miracle

first birthday for a precious baby girl who came into the world

twelve weeks early - Weighing only one tiny pound, plus 9 ounces!

In the beginning, there were too many anxious moments to count!

But today, our little Sunshine couldn't be more perfect

and, all of us that know her, couldn't be any more thankful!

As the mother of a preemie born at thirty-three

weeks who went on to become all of this...

I always believed we would be celebrating this first birthday!

And, how lucky am I to be able to share in this joy?

Pretty darn lucky, for sure!

Normally, I'd use my Sweet Dani B squeeze bottles but decorating

one hundred and two sunshine cookies calls for larger squeeze bottles;

and, these eight-ounce bottles from CopperGifts.com are perfect!

I matched the color of my icing with the colors on the party invitation!

Electric Pink and Lemon Yellow AmeriColor gel

paste food coloring spells happy sunshine all day long!

When birthday girl's mom first showed me the inspiration photo

for these cookies I panicked a little because I wasn't sure where I'd

find a ten-point flower cookie cutter. However, all I had to do was

take a peek into my baking pantry because I already owned one!

These cutters aren't as easy to find as they used to be. But if

you'd like one you can still find a couple here. After those sell

out, you can contact my friends at CopperGifts.com because

they'll happily create a custom sunflower cutter just for you!

I enjoyed creating these cookies... Not only because they were going

to be part of a very special birthday celebration, but I got to sing too!

Because there was no way to decorate these happy cookies

without getting the song, You are my Sunshine stuck in my head!

By the way... the best way... No, the only way to draw on iced cookies

is with AmeriColor's edible ink food writers! I bought a couple

of packages a few years ago but always chickened out of using them...

Rather, I spent lots of extra time piping faces on my cookies, fearing that

writing on my cookies would either damage the icing or the ink would

bleed into my icing colors. But after chatting with Dani about how

she fearlessly doodles on her cookies all the time, I was inspired...

To give it a try - And, it worked perfectly. All 102 times! The

most important thing to remember is to allow your royal

icing to dry completely. For me, that was overnight!

Packaged in a box with color-coordinating crinkle and a tag I designed

especially for the sweet birthday girl... My cookies were ready to party!

It was fun to see them placed at each seat for guests to take home!

The party was planned by the incomparable, Tammy Mutter of

Meghily's Party In Style. To see more photos of the sunny décor

Tammy created or to coordinate your own party with her, click here!

The party was attended by so many friends, her family and many

members of the incredible hospital staff that cared for Olivia and

her parents for the months before she finally got to come home!

Happy Birthday Olivia Grace... You are my Sunshine!

Aveda's Earth Month... And, a give-away!

2013-04-09T15:44:00.000-04:00

Did you know that since 1999, Aveda has set aside an entire month to love, celebrate and raise funds to protect the Earth and its peoples? Yes! Aveda has raised over $26 million since 1999, more than $20 million for clean water projects over the last 6 years. And, it's all because of phenomenal people, like YOU! Your generosity and compassion for people in need, no matter where they live on the planet, makes it all possible.

For me, the best part of Aveda's Earth Month campaign is always the limited edition candle. Each year there's a new scent and each year I think the scent is better than the last!

These amazing candles are only available during Aveda's Earth Month campaign and, 100% of the purchase price of $12 goes directly to fund water-related projects!

Since I think you deserve to experience the incredible scent of the 2013 Aveda Earth Month candle, I'm giving away FOUR! This year's candle is infused with warm, organic spices from Madagascar. I'll say it again this year and mean it... Best smelling candle, ever! You can order yours here or pop into your local Aveda experience center to grab one. Or three, or a dozen!

This year, beautiful Aveda Earth Month 2013 campaign artwork tells the story of the village of Ampasimanjeva (Ahm-pahs-ih-mahn-jay-vah), Madagascar and what clean water means to them. The illustrations were drawn by children of the village showing the happiness clean water projects have brought to their lives. To see more of the artwork that tells how life improved after clean water was delivered, click here! I think it's amazing and hope you do, too!

AVEDA'S IMPACT IN MADAGASCAR
ASSOCIATION SCHOOL
Southeast Madagascar
Three grants from 2008-2012 totaling $96,500

In 2009 Aveda Earth Month funded a project that brought safe drinking water to over 2,500 people in the village of Ampasimanjeva, Madagascar. It was a huge accomplishment, but there was clearly a need to expand the project and also help bring clean water to neighboring villages. In 2010 and 2012 GlobalGreengrants Fund and Aveda provided additional grants to expand the initial project and construct additional water systems in two neighboring villages.

To date, Aveda's grants to the Association School have helped to drill three wells that use solar-powered pumps to bring water to storage tanks and ultimately to seven different stand posts in the communities. The School has also helped organize Drinking Water Committees so that community members have the skills and responsibility to maintain the water systems. Now more than 4,000 people have access to clean water. The most recent project is underway with plans to improve access to drinking water for an additional 8,000 people.

So... about that give-away!

If you've been reading for a while then you may remember that in 2010 I partnered with my best friend, aka SpaBoy, to create 600 Clean Water cookies to help raise money for his EC's earth month campaign... And, to thank me, he's been keeping me in my favorite Aveda products ever since - Lucky me! And, lucky you - Because today, SpaBoy gave me four Earth Day candles to share! The only catch is that we both hope you'll take a moment to consider making a donation to SpaBoy's Aveda experience center team located at the Crabtree Valley Mall in Raleigh. There's a bit of competition among Aveda's experience centers and I want SpaBoy's EC to win! To donate specifically to the Aveda Experience Center in Raleigh, NC just click here

To enter to win one of the four, 2013 Aveda Earth Month candles SpaBoy hand-picked for you, simply leave a comment telling me how much you love Aveda for their efforts to provide clean water to everyone on the planet. I'll pick four winners on Wednesday, April 16th... So do be sure to check back!

--- Contest Closed ---

Congratulations to: Nikki, Joyce, Gwen and Marilyn!

Please send your full name and mailing address to: janet@thearmymom.com

Egg-Land's Best Eggs Brunch Prize Pack Give-away!

2013-04-08T23:24:00.000-04:00

Contest Closed - Congratulations Kirby, you've

won the Egg-Land's Best Eggs Brunch Prize Pack

You have 24 hours to provide your address... So hurry!

When I was asked if I would like to share Egg-Land's Best eggs featuring a

brunch recipe I couldn't wait to do it! After all, there's this beautiful vegetable

frittata with roasted potatoes and garlic of Martha's I planned to serve late

on Easter morning... However, despite my planning and best intention of

setting a sweet Easter table for our little party of two using all of this...

Two weeks before Easter, I came down with a terrible cold. My first

cold in more than four years! It wasn't a total surprise since most of

the people on my floor at work have been passing it around since

before Christmas. Still, it wiped me out. So much, that I didn't even

get to set up my Oma's sweet Easter tree this year. Yes... That bad!

What's not bad at all are Egg-Land's Best eggs! In fact, besides:

Double the amount of Omega-3's

Ten Times more Vitamin E

Twice the amount of Vitamin D

Three times more Vitamin B12

25% Less saturated Fat and,

38% more Lutein than other eggs...

You know what else makes Egg-Land's Best eggs the only eggs in my kitchen?

They are the easiest eggs to peel... Yes! Egg-Land's Best

eggs slip right out of their shells every time I cook them!

And, that's important! Especially if you've ever wanted to jump out

of a window fussing over eggs that wouldn't peel to save a life. Or, when

eggs must actually look like eggs for certain dishes, such as deviled eggs!

So... How much like an Egg-Land's Best

egg does my little sugar cookie look now?

What does a girl do to feature an egg recipe using Egg-Land's Best eggs

when she can't smell or taste anything and doesn't feel like doing either?

She makes her husband egg salad, of course!

My secret for perfectly diced eggs is my handy egg slicer... First, I

slice the egg lengthwise, then I lift the egg up, open the slicer and

place the egg back into the cradle sideways and, slice again!

See?

Perfectly diced eggs for yummy egg salad every time!

Dump the egg into a bowl and repeat the process with the next lucky EB egg!

By the way, forget the protein and other breakfast/energy

bars. Most of them exceed 200 calories and do little to keep

us full until lunch. But... At only 70 calories, a hard-boiled

egg is much, much better for us and, far less expensive too!

Too busy to boil your own eggs? EB has ready-to-eat boiled eggs too. Perfect

for breakfast, lunch or as a protein boost on your salad! I find them in the liquid

egg section at the market. See? Egg-Land's Best Eggs truly are the perfect food!

For some really incredible egg recipes, visit Egg-Land's recipe website here

I check Egg-Land's Facebook page and follow Egg-Land's Twitter and

Pintrest for easy ways to incorporate delicious Egg-Land's eggs into my life

every day! You should also know that EB's chickens are fed a vegetarian diet

that is nutrient-rich and hormone, steroid and antibiotic-free. And, probably

best of all for an animal-lover like me... EB's chickens live cage free too!

By the way... Egg salad is the perfect base for tuna and chicken salads

too. For my tuna salad, I simply add tuna, chopped white onion and dill

pickles and for my chicken salad, I add chicken, celery and green grapes!

I love egg salad and cannot wait until I can taste it again!

In the meantime, Army dad will have to do the tasting for me!

So about that give-away... I'm Egg-cited to say that this fantastic Egg-Land's

Best swag shown below, plus coupons for FREE EB's can be yours!

To enter: Leave a comment telling me how many times a week eggs are

part of your diet. For extra entries, Tweet or share this giveaway on

your Facebook page and let me know that you did. Contest is open

to US residents only and ends on Friday 04/12/2013. Winner will be

chosen at random and notified by e-mail. So leave your e-mail address!

The legal stuff:

Egg-Land's best provided me with the same gift-pack shown in exchange for my review; however, as always, all opinions stated are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising." The sponsor is responsible for prize and prize shipment

Twin City Stage presents 12 Angry Men!

2013-04-06T12:54:00.000-04:00

When I received an e-mail from a friend asking if I could create cookies for the cast

of our local theatre production of 12 Angry Men I immediately said No. I mean, I

was knee-deep in egg-hunt themed party bunny cookies and the request I

have on calendar for 100 sunshine cookies has been keeping me awake at night

for two months... However, I love community theatre almost as much as I love

my friends - Plus, knowing my Hollywood connection for printed icing sheets

would be willing to come through for me again helped turn my No into a Yes!

Of course, the first step in any cookie project is to ensure you

have the correct and, the best copper cookie cutter available. For

me that means calling my friends at CopperGifts.com!

Because when it says Braman on the side, I know I'm using an

heirloom-quality copper cookie cutter that will never fail me!

Crisp, perfect cuts every time. And, because I freeze my cookie cut-

outs for 10 minutes before I bake them, there's virtually no spread!

After seeing Bridget's edible image cookies a few years ago I

quickly ordered a printer, edible inks and icing sheets so that I could

create my own image cookies. Then I second-guessed myself and talked

myself out of any confidence I might have originally had to do it. I never

opened the printer box and, ended up giving it away. The ink cartridges

finally expired and the icing sheets dried up so I threw them all away!

So just like last time, I picked up the phone and called my California

connection, the amazing Jenny of Signature Sweet Shoppe! You may

remember that Jenny also created the edible image sheets I used for the

600 cookies I created to support Aveda's earth month campaign

I called Jenny because clearly, I don't believe I'm capable of creating icing

sheets on my own. And, since my friend offered to pay me for creating these

cookies, I thought it would also be nice to share the income with a fellow

cookie-maker I love. Because I'm all about sharing the love. And, the cash!

This chunky pearlized sanding sugar from CopperGifts.com is perfect! I

was told it makes it took like there are lightbulbs going off around the

image... Which coincidentally is exactly what I meant for it to look like!

Jenny did an great job with the images... Again! One day I hope to figure

it out. But for now, when I need edible icing sheets, I'm calling Jenny!

I was originally asked to deliver these cookies to the cast party unwrapped...

But I couldn't resist creating custom tags!

I even incorporated a quote from the play!

Besides, packaging the cookies ensures there will
be no damage and allows people to take them home!

The best part of this project was the e-mail I received this morning
letting me know that my cookies were a huge hit and tasted great!

Just the critic's review I was hoping for!

If you want to read this morning's review of the play, click here!

If you live in the area, I strongly suggest you

visit Twin City Stage and get your tickets soon!

Calming the winds of change with Poise - And, a Give-Away!

2013-04-04T00:14:00.000-04:00

05/09: Poise has let me know that comment #102,
Elizabeth Owens is our winner! Congratulations to her
and, thank you to everyone for your wonderful feedback!

When BlogHer recommended I join other bloggers in a campaign sponsored by Poise that encourages women to discuss menopausal changes more openly through their 2nd Talk program, I couldn't agree fast enough! Why? Because too many women my age never had the first talk with their moms and, in my opinion, our second change in life is simply too important to ignore or risk having vital questions answered by our often equally uniformed friends... Like many of us did when we were twelve. Been there, done that! And, if you think this post isn't for you because you're not there yet... Keep reading!

Did you know that more than fifty million women across North America are approaching or experiencing menopause and that each most likely has an average of five menopausal symptoms? Of course, no two experiences are exactly alike; therefore, that's why I'm even more grateful for resources like the one we have in the caring people behind Poise products, which help women stay fresh and comfortable.

I first discovered Poise in 2005 after the panty liners I'd used every day since I was thirteen years old stopped being enough to control light bladder leakage during my workouts. Truthfully, this began in my mid-twenties after giving birth to my sons. Nevertheless, once I reached my late thirties and the issue became less tolerable, I reached for Poise.

See this package I just grabbed from my bathroom?

It's finally the last package of my six-year old stockpile! As you can see from my photos of their current packaging, Poise has changed a little since I bought ten cases back in 2005... Why did I buy so much? Because Poise panty liners worked so well to control my light bladder leakage and kept me so dry and fresh, I wasn't willing to risk being without them. Ever!

Thankfully, Poise liners were never discontinued and today, their line of products has only grown and improved since my discovery! Speaking of discoveries... I first learned about puberty after finding a box of Kotex pads hidden in my mom's closet when I was ten years old. I read with interest the side panel that talked about a woman's time of the month and how Kotex could be relied upon to keep her feeling confident all day. It didn't make complete sense to me at the time but learning that the parent company of Kotex is the same company that brings us Poise and Depend assures me that Kimberly-Clark has us women, (and men) covered for all stages of our lives.

Just after my 40th birthday, blood tests revealed I was pre-menopausal so I called my mom for advice. It's funny how much better we are able to communicate about such things since my teenage years! And, although I am blessed beyond measure to have my mother to confide in, I strongly recommend the Poise website as a close second to your mom and certainly for any woman shy about discussing these issues. Me? I'm not shy. I own this 47-year old body and I'll do whatever it takes to figure it out and manage my menopause naturally.
Navigating the symptoms of menopause can be uncomfortable. The truth is, some of the decisions we face concerning our hormonal well-being can be pretty daunting. However, in terms of products meant to help us preserve our dignity, boost our confidence and provide comfort, Poise has women covered!

If you haven't already tried the Poise Body Cooling Towelettes, you must! They help by providing hot flash comfort with an instant cooling sensation!

The 2013 Product of the Year award-winning Poise Feminine Wellness line was introduced so all women may approach changes confidently!

The line includes:

Roll-On Cooling Gel and Body Cooling Towelettes

Personal Lubricant

Panty Fresheners and Feminine Wash

Poise... It's for me and, it's for you!

Visit the Poise Facebook page to learn more about the Poise
Feminine Wellness Line and sign up for a coupon or sample.

Now, about that Give-away!

How are you approaching life's changes confidently? I want to know and, Poise wants to know too!

To enter, just leave a comment below sharing as much or as little as you'd like. Every comment will automatically be entered for a $100 Visa gift card that will be awarded by BlogHer.

Remember to include your e-mail address where prompted, (e-mail addresses are not published) so that BlogHer will know how to contact you - Good Luck!

Rules:
No duplicate comments.
You may receive (2) total entries by selecting from the following entry methods:

Leave a comment in response to the sweepstakes prompt on this post
Tweet (public message) about this promotion; including exactly the following unique term in your tweet message: "#SweepstakesEntry"; and leave the URL to that tweet in a comment on this post
Blog about this promotion, including a disclosure that you are receiving a sweepstakes entry in exchange for writing the blog post, and leave the URL to that post in a comment on this post
For those with no Twitter or blog, read the official rules to learn about an alternate form of entry.

This giveaway is open to US Residents age 18 or older. Winners will be selected via random draw, and will be notified by e-mail. You have 72 hours to get back to me, otherwise a new winner will be selected.

The Official Rules are available here.

This sweepstakes runs from 4/04/13-4/30/13.

Be sure to visit the Poise brand page on BlogHer.com where you can read other bloggers’ reviews and find more chances to win!

Happy Easter!

2013-03-30T18:04:00.000-04:00

I spent this beautiful afternoon before Easter creating baptism

cookie favors for a special friend in Texas. A baptism at Easter...

I cannot think of a more beautiful

time of the year to celebrate a baptism!

These onesie cookies were created using this copper cookie cutter

from CopperGifts.com. It's the perfect size for a cookie favor!

I never created baptism cookie favors before until Dani Fiori contacted me

about assisting with an order she had for them. Yes... The Dani Fiori. The

Emmy winning set decorator and stylist for Martha Stewart. And yes...

Dani is every bit as sweet, kind and generous as we see on television!

Although it's been several months since I pitched in to help
replicate Dani's elegant baptism cookie favor for her client...

I'm spilling the beans to you now because I cannot post about creating

these baptism cookies again today without ensuring that Dani receives

full credit for her design that inspired me or my ability to do them!

Oh! Speaking of beans...

Have you seen Dani decorate her adorable bunny in egg cookie using

Jelly Belly jelly beans yet? If not, click here to check out her sweet video!

A little advice before you create this cookie... Buy extra Jelly Belly jelly

beans because for every one you put on the cookie, you're sure to eat two!

How cute are these little egg cookies?

I created them using my Martha by Mail Eggs copper cookie

cutter set. Still worth every penny! And, they look so cute on this

cupcake stand by Martha Stewart that I picked up at Macy*s!

I couldn't help but decorate some of them to look like real eggs!

Off to the Easter basket they go!

Wishing you a very Happy Easter!

Wicked!

2013-03-23T22:54:00.000-04:00

SpaBoy, Mr. B and I all ran off to play in Charlotte yesterday...

After the sun went down we went to see Wicked! It was our second time but it

was SpaBoy's thirteenth time! And, when you've seen Wicked thirteen times like
he has, you develop friendships with some of the cast members! Being his friend

is pretty amazing every day but when we're at Wicked it gets just a little bit better

because when he gets invited to witness the Greenification of Elphaba... He takes me!

That's right! We were backstage and, standing in Elphaba's dressing room...

Witnessing Wicked magic!

To say it was spectacular fun to be included doesn't even begin to cover it!

See? I told you it was...

Magic!

But the Greenification was just the beginning because the performance

was incredible. Again... Still... Always! Although it was our second time

and SpaBoy's thirteenth time, it felt like the first time ever for all of us!

If you're in or at all near Charlotte you'll want to hurry because Wicked

closes on March 31st. What's worse, this will be our favorite Elphaba's

final performance. For me, Christine Dwyer will always be the best Elphaba!

While I'm at work next week SpaBoy will be back to see Wicked one more time. And...

He's also attending Wicked After Dark! A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to play with

the cast of Wicked and to bid on amazing prizes to benefit RAIN. Now, I happen to

know that the front row, center seat is sold but you can get another seat here

What about you... Have you seen Wicked?

If you have, I'd love to know your favorite part!

Here Comes Peter Cottontail...

2013-03-21T23:44:00.000-04:00

A sweet friend at work asked if I would create cookies

for her darling daughter's 4th birthday party this weekend...

Of course, I said yes!

Seems like just yesterday I attended her baby shower...

Ranger was just about to graduate from

basic training and begin Airborne school...

Today he's an NCO who has deployed four times and, my dear friend's

little girl is turning four. It's true what they say... Time flies when you're

having fun... Or in my case, proud, terrified and completely stressed out!

Seriously! How do they go from this...

To this, overnight? Funny thing is, my mom wonders the same thing!

Thank goodness for the dream job and cookie

projects that keep me busy twenty-eight hours a day!

All done! By the way... I love creating custom

gift tags almost as much as I enjoy creating cookies!

Since Sutton's party theme is egg-hunt, I decided to hide an egg cookie

behind each sweet bunny! These tiny eggs were created using my vintage

Martha by Mail copper cookie cutter Eggs set... Still worth every penny!

50 bunny and egg sets were just delivered. You know what that means, right?

Means I might make it to bed before 1AM tonight!

Just in time for my three-day weekend!

Yup! We're off to Charlotte in the morning... Of course,

the Pottery Barn Outlet in Gaffney is on my agenda. As

is Dean and Deluca and my favorite antique mall!

Then at 8 o'clock the fun really begins... Because at

that time you'll find us front and center at Wicked!

Have yourself a sweet weekend too!

Happy St. Patrick's Day and a huge cookie update!

2013-03-16T23:14:00.000-04:00

You didn't hear much from me this week because I was knee-deep in cookies!

First was a batch of St. Patrick's Day cookies for a sweet lady I work with. She

wanted to send shamrock cookies with her daughter to day care on Friday!

And, since I was going to be up decorating until the wee hours of the

morning with shamrocks, I decided to pull the dress cookies I baked

for the Ranger's girlfriend out of the freezer and decorate them too!

It was a long, long day but honestly,

when I receive e-mails of thanks...

With photos like this attached... It so makes

decorating cookies until 2AM worth it!

Speaking of worth it...

I was delighted to create dress cookies for the very special young lady

who stole the Ranger's heart... And, for the women she works with too!

They arrived at her office yesterday and

reports were that they were well received!

And, thanks to UPS, 15 of 16 made it to Dallas in one piece too! By the
way, I'm still loving the fancy dress cookie cutter by CopperGifts.com!

You may remember that I first used it to create Prom-ask cookies!

Ranger's girlfriend works for Neiman's so it could only be fancy dresses for her!

After all, she and the ladies she works with know their fashion!

So the pressure was on to create cookies worthy of their sophisticated taste!

But just for fun, I tossed in a few tutu's!

Thanks to another fantastic CopperGifts.com cookie cutter!

I was told this particular cookie was an instant favorite!

You'll find your own heirloom-quality copper tutu cookie cutter here

The morning after the icing was completely dry, I added disco dust!

Sanding sugar and disco dust are my

two favorite decorating embellishments!

Who am I kidding? I also love candy flowers and sugar pearls too!

I love it all!

Except the sending them away part...

Although I know they'll be appreciated and enjoyed,

it's always a little difficult to see my creations leave!

I imagined them saying to me, But what if we don't like Texas...?

Can we come back home?

Of course, I told them they could... Even though I knew they wouldn't!

So I talk to my cookies at 2AM. Don't act like I'm the only one!

The final project I worked on early last week was these onesie cookies!

I learned how to decorate onesies from the one

and only Dani Fiori of Sweet Dani B during one

of her appearances the Martha Stewart show

The secret to success with wet-on-wet decorating is to

ensure your icing colors are the same consistency!

Because when they are...

The results are seamless!

And that's important when you're working with a lot of seams!

As you can probably tell from the tags, these baby

onesie cookies went to a very special group at work...

Who took them to a sales meet with a very important retailer!

Of course, I could resist sending them off with a little good-luck charm!

So that concludes my cookie recap from last week! For next week I'll

be equally as busy as I was just asked to create egg-hunt themed cookies

for a special girl who'll turn four. Now... I really should have stayed home

to bake today. But it was 77 degrees and, the only thing I wanted to do was

get out of the house. So... Mr. B and I made a run for it and spent the day

browsing through our favorite antique and consignment stores. It was

well worth blowing off my baking assignment! When I checked the mail

this evening I was so surprised to find this from one of my blog friends!

She's more amazing than she knows and, I'm so happy to know her. And, I

cannot wait to create lighthouse cookies with this Michael Bonne cutter!

When we left this morning I had no idea I would

be replacing the side table in my living room!

But when I saw this one at Red Collection, I knew I had to have it!

I love its little wheel feet and this shelf is the perfect hiding spot for

books, my laptop and iPad! It's vintage American made furniture...

And, even the inside of the drawer is beautiful!

Most people say Out with the old and in with the new but I

find that most of the time it's better the other way around!

Hallmark's Get Carded 7-card Challenge

2013-03-10T19:04:00.000-04:00

Contest Closed!

Thank you for sharing your lists of special

people with me! I wish I could send everyone

a package of cards; however, the winner of the

Hallmark card pack is... Patti! Please send your

full name and address to me and Hallmark will

send your card pack out right away! xo Janet

A couple of days following my post about rediscovering this box of

old love-letters, the nice people at Hallmark reached out to ask if I

would participate in the Hallmark Get Carded 7-card blogger challenge!

Have you gone totally digital or do you still have an old address book you

rely on? I do! And, no matter how much I lean on technology to keep in touch

with my friends and family, few things compare with the feeling of choosing a

special card and sending it to someone I love. I send lots of cards and, I'm very

fortunate to receive lots of cards too. My mom sends the best cards! Nothing

lifts me up quicker than a card from my mom and dad... It doesn't have to be a

lengthy message. A simple, "We miss you" or "do you remember..." will do!

This is the address book I put together when I was eighteen years

old. Sure, a lot of the addresses and numbers have changed and there

are even a few friends who's married names have changed a few times

over the years too... But they're all still in there, along with a few notes,

photos and old newspaper clippings that bring back great memories!

Now, this is the address book I put together fifteen years ago, after I

ran out of pages in my old address book. I went a little bigger with this

one; in fact, it's not an address book at all! It's a leather journal, which

allows me to document not only the names, addresses and telephone

numbers of people I care about and enjoy corresponding with, it also

lets me document other important goodies about them... Such as how

we met, where they work, their birthday, about their spouse, kids, etc.

My address book travels with me too... Because I have a whole list of

friends and family that love to receive post cards from the places we

travel. And, even though people I meet along the way often send me

contact information via e-mail, they all eventually end up here in my

trusty address book. What about you... Are you a blogger that would

like to take the 7-card challenge too? Well, all you have to do is apply

here and Hallmark will send you a card-pack to help get you started!

So for the past seven days I've been writing and sending cards to some of the

important people in my life. First on my list is this guy because today's his birthday!

While he is currently very busy in sniper school, this is the first

birthday in four years that he hasn't been deployed. I'll take it!

Four days after Ranger's birthday we always celebrate my

parents' anniversary. This March 14th marks fifty-one years!

As part of Hallmark's 7-card challenge, I'm supposed to share with you

a little about whom I've chosen to receive cards... So in addition to our

Ranger for his 25th birthday and, to my parents for their 51st wedding

anniversary, I have also mailed cards to Ranger's girlfriend and, to my

dear friend on Bainbridge Island who's about to launch her dream of

selling her hand-sewn, Bags by Bloom! Of course, my list of important

people wouldn't be complete without mentioning the girl who has been

my BFF since we met in the fourth grade or my other BFF... The very

first girl to befriend me in junior high after my family moved to Kansas

from Germany. This friend has battled MS for the past thirteen years

more courageously than I ever imagined was humanly possible. So...

What about you? Want to dust off your old address book and send some

sweet Hallmark cards to your own list of special people? All you have to

do is leave a comment telling me what makes the first person on your

list so special. I'll pick a winner on Wednesday 03/14. Good Luck!

The legal stuff goes like this:
All opinions about Hallmark are my own. But let's face it... There's no disputing that Hallmark remains the gold-standard of greeting cards for all occasions. I wouldn't be caught dead sending anything else! I received an assortment of 10 of Hallmark's nicest greeting cards for review plus 20 first-class stamps. Thanks, Hallmark!

Olay Total Effects Color and Correcting (CC) Cream Review and Giveaway!

2013-03-04T04:24:00.000-05:00

Contest Closed. Thank you for your wonderful feedback!

Congratulations to Meagan Dillon! Please send

your address to: jcbridge@aol.com and I will mail

your $25 Walmart gift card to you right away!

Want to know a little secret?

I've outgrown my usual make up routine...

Now, without making any reckless declarations about ~~getting older~~ my age being the culprit, I'm afraid the time has come to admit that the days when I could grab just any foundation and look amazing seem to be behind me.

Although I am blessed with fantastically agreeable skin, I have noticed little things that never bothered me before, such as the appearance of fine creases, mild discoloration from sun damage and dryness suddenly seemed to be magnified by my usual foundation. So I did what I always do when something quits working, I stopped using it. It's true... Two years ago, I stopped wearing foundation altogether. Even to work! And, although no one seemed to notice, I missed not only the routine of putting on my make-up but also how I felt when I left the house knowing my skin looked flawless and was protected from the sun.

For a while, I experimented with color correcting moisturizing foundations; however, after using four different kinds, I finally realized that it was the matte finish that bothered me. Despite claims of being luminizing, most rendered my features flat by erasing the natural shadows and highlights which are part of my facial landscape. So I went back to wearing no foundation at all.

But that was then and, this is now... Because three weeks ago, I was asked to review Olay Total Effects CC Cream - And, my face loves it!

Total Effects CC Cream delivers everything Olay promises, which is a lot! See here:

This all-in-one triple stream formula combines a daily anti-aging moisturizer, SPF 15 sunscreen and sheer tint for younger-looking skin.

Total Effects fights the 7 signs of aging:

Fine lines and wrinkles: reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles

Uneven Tone: balances and helps even out tone

Age Spots: reduces appearance of discoloration

Gentle Exfoliation: Improves surface cell turnover

Dryness: provides nourishing moisturization

Moisture Barrier: strengthens skin’s natural defense against moisture loss

Luminosity: recaptures youthful luminosity

I noticed a difference the first time I applied it! The dry areas below my hairline and eyes disappeared. And, the tiny lines around my smile, the ones where my usual foundation and other color correcting creams settle by 10AM, vanish the moment this beautifully light balm hits my face. All without erasing the natural texture of my complexion! This means less mannequin and more me... I like it!

But the real proof that Olay's CC cream is different is in what I hear from others. Because when you're told twice in one day that you look refreshed or like you've just been for a facial, something magical is happening!

Fortunately for you, Olay doesn't want me to keep this secret all to myself. Therefore, I'm passing along the $25.00 Walmart gift card I received to one of my readers so that you may experience Total Effects for yourself! The price point is very reasonable, especially for the quality of Olay and the benefits you're sure to experience. Plus, a tiny bit goes a very, very long way!

To win, all you have to do is leave a comment letting me know which of the seven signs of aging challenges you the most. For extra entries, don't hesitate to follow Olay on Twitter, like them on Facebook or mention/Tweet this giveaway and then come back to let me know that you did.

Winner will be announced on Thursday March 7th - Good Luck!

The legal stuff goes like this:

All opinions about this product are my own. I received one complimentary Olay Total Effects 7 for review along with one $25 Walmart gift card, which will be awarded to one reader.

NOTE: Olay does not represent or warrant the accuracy of any statements or product claims made here, nor does it endorse any opinions expressed within this blogsite.

Prom Cookies

2013-03-03T23:34:00.000-05:00

The completion of my new baking pantry came just in time

because on the day the doors were installed I received four

requests from friends... All of them in need of cookies!

The first request came from a sweet mom calling for her son who

wanted to employ a cleaver way of asking his girlfriend to their prom!

I originally ordered this fancy dress cookie cutter from CopperGifts.com

with cookies in mind for the Ranger's girl and the ladies she works with,

to thank them for their kindness during his recent visit... However, I also

think it's the perfect shape for the prom dresses dancing in my head!

Ah, Prom...

Seems like just yesterday I was picking up my own prom dress!

And, it seems like only five minutes ago that the

Ranger and his brother were headed off to their proms...

It's true what they say... Time does fly when you're having fun!

Speaking of fun.... I found it difficult not to dance around

the kitchen a little once these cookies began to come to life!

I hope you picked up this set of cookie cutters

by Neiman Marcus for Target last Christmas!

Because the loafer is perfect!

By the way, we moms must stick together; therefore, I added an extra

cookie to the set... For the most important girl in prom king's life!

So... What do you think?

Think she said yes?

Baking Pantry Complete!

2013-02-25T22:04:00.000-05:00

Just to remind you of where we began... It was called, a catch-all!

Sure, I needed a place to park my tote bag collection but...

My over-flowing baking supply drawers won over tote bag parking!

Seriously... I needed saving!

So thanks to my darling husband...

A pantry dedicated solely to my baking and cookie decorating supplies was born!

With hardly a labor pain between us!

Last night, after I stocked the shelves and went to bed, this

is what my amazing new baking pantry looked like. However...

Today it got even better after the new doors were installed!

I love them! And, I'm so happy I over-bought on the knobs and bin pulls

at Pottery Barn when we remodeled the kitchen the second time,

because I had exactly what I needed for the new pantry and coat closet!

Spacious, organized and concealed... Everything a girl wants in a pantry!

So what does a girl do to thank the man with the vision and ability to build it?

She cooks one of his favorite meals!

Pork roast cooked low and slow...

In one of my LeCreuset dutch ovens, of course!

And, in the beautiful new KitchenAid gas range I

still cannot believe I won at last year's Mixed Con!

Needless to say...

He was as happy with dinner as I am with my new baking pantry!

Before I close I have to tell you about a little bonus I discovered while

unpacking the storage bench... You see that little California license plate?

I found it in this box of love-letters we exchanged just after we met. We met on a

Thursday night in Kansas. We had our first date the following evening and by very

early Saturday morning, my family was on its way to Monterey, California! After he

phoned, (four days later) to ask if I would be his wife, we began corresponding via

letters. This lasted almost exactly three months until we eloped to Reno to marry!

No internet, no cell phones. Only expensive long distance calls and lots of

letter writing... Gosh! I haven't looked through this box in a million years...

As I began digging through the box, I discovered lots of long-forgotten treasures...

Like this one that my mom brought back to me after my beloved

Oma passed away in 1990. It's the last letter I wrote to her, which

arrived only two days before she died. Mom found it on the table in

her apartment. Mom also brought back this comb, compact and pill

box set I sent my Oma for Christmas just a few short weeks before...

I also found the booklet for the first television we purchased together,

along with one of my high school graduation announcements, the receipt

for my senior prom dress and, this funny saved from my 1986 calendar!

Here's the birth certificate for my 1983 cabbage patch doll and, the

prescription for my first pair of glasses when I was twelve years old!

Written by an Army doctor in Frankfurt Germany,

which is the map on the back of the prescription!

Here is one of my early class (charting) assignments from dental assisting school!

Great letters. Great memories!

All discovered again because he decided to build me a baking pantry!

Stocking the Baking Pantry!

2013-02-24T23:14:00.000-05:00

First thing this morning I dashed over to Target for rolls of shelf

liner and cabinet organizers to complete my baking pantry project!

I was so happy to find these OXO turntables! Don't be

fooled into thinking the other ones will rotate as smoothly!

The pegboard filled up a lot quicker than I anticipated!

Across the front, and corner...

To corner...

I filled it! The cut-out shelf below is the perfect spot to hold my precious

Martha by Mail copper cookie cutter sets. They'll be safe back there!

After organizing all of my cookie cutters, my first thought was I better

call USAA tomorrow to take out an extra insurance rider for them!

Because they are all priceless to me! And yes, I alphabetized them by container...

Because I'm only doing this once and I'm doing it right!

As they say... Anything worth doing, is worth doing well!

Hey! Want to know a secret?

These photos are more for me than they are to show you my new baking pantry!

Want to know why?

Because next time I'm shopping for baking and decorating supplies

and I can't remember whether or not I have orange sanding sugar...

I'll be able to refer to this post and see instantly

that I need buy no more orange sanding sugar!

Same goes for so many other things I often

buy without remembering I already have them!

Dear Mom, I love you so very much...

And, I thank you for thinking of me during your visits to Sur la Table

and Williams-Sonoma. But please... There's no need to send more cupcake liners!

Oh! By the way... Remember that fortune cookie message I

found the day I searched for my missing round cake pans?

It was right! I found not only my round cake pan sets but all the cake pans I thought

were gone forever. Where were they? In the cabinet with my cake stands. Of course!

My greatest Christmas wish when I was eight years old was

that St. Nicholas would bring me my very own Kaufladen. For

those who don't know what a Kaufladen is, it is a miniature version

of a grocery store for children to play shopkeeper. Like this one...

Of course, being seven and eight years old, my little brother and I couldn't

wait for Christmas. So we took it upon ourselves to do a bit of snooping in

the room upstairs where we thought presents might be hiding for us. And,

sure enough... There, in that room we were told never to go, was the most

wonderful kaufladen I could have ever hoped to receive. Of course, James

and I were terrible snoops so it did not take very much for mom and dad

to figure out that we had discovered all their secrets. I remember that we

confessed immediately and, while I don't remember what his punishment

was, I'll never forget the agony of being told that I'd have to wait until my

birthday to have my kaufladen. Needless to say... We never snooped again!

As I stocked these shelves today I couldn't help but remember

my sweet little kaufladen and, how much my new baking pantry

looks like a real-life baking and cookie decorating supply store!

To see the completed project, click here!