June's Prime Purchases

And, once again, it's time for one of my favorite post of each month.  It's sort of replaced my "favorites" post because so much of what I purchase through Amazon ends up being a favorite.  Hope you find something you can't live without too. ~smile~

BLUSH

AMAZON

I love blush and wear it every.single.day.of.my.life.  But, I want it to be on the softer side.  This blush by Hourglass is called Cool Pink and it is fused with Ethereal Light (whatever that is) for a moonlit luminosity.  It's a soft rosey color that I love.  I use one other Hourglass product and love it and decided to give this a try.  It is a bit pricey but, blush generally last a very long time.


CELL  PHONE  RING

AMAZON
I may have told you about these jewels before but it doesn't matter, everyone NEEDS one of these on the back of their cell phone.  It was a game changer for me and I haven't been without since my first one.  There are several different types but I really like this one with the clear acrylic back.  Your phone cover shows through the acrylic and it has amazing adhesive.  This particular one comes in a pack of 4 for a very inexpensive price.  Holding the phone has never been as easy.  I slide it over one of my fingers at times and can carry a host of other things and never have to worry about dropping my phone.  I've had more people than I can count stop and ask me about it.  Go check it out!


PATIO/PORCH  FURNITURE  CUSHIONS

AMAZON

Aren't these pretty?  This is our new porch furniture cushions and I am so pleased.  We've had the same ones since we moved in our new house almost 4 years ago and they had definitely lost their "pizazz."  

They add such a nice touch to our porch furniture. 



FAUX  OUTDOOR  CEDAR TREES
  



AMAZON

Not only had our cushions lost their "pizazz" but so had our topiaries by the front door.  We use faux outdoor plants in the big pots and these new Cedar trees are awesome.  They are 4 feet tall and make quite the statement.  There are so, so many wonderful faux plants on Amazon that it was hard to make a choice.  And, these will look great at Christmas with clear lights strung on them. 

Here's what they look like in our pots on our front porch. 




SWADDLE BLANKET


AMAZON
I ran across this swaddle blanket for our baby boy coming in September and I couldn't resist it.  I love the verse and everything about it.  There are several verses to choose from so baby boy may end up with another one of these. ~smile~


SMALL  NATURAL  WOOD  TRAYS


AMAZON

Hubby and I have matching recliners with a table between them.  The table has a lamp on it and it also has a drawer.  I have been looking for something that would hold the items we use EVERY time we are sitting in our chairs.  Yes, there is a nice drawer but neither of us want to have to open it to get our frequently used items.  Some of those items would be eye drops, pen, page tabs, reading glasses and stylus. ~in case you were wondering~  Well, I finally found the perfect tray for these items.  I have seen these natural wood trays in the larger size but not in this small size.  These are 6" by 8" at the widest point.  

See how well they work for our "stuff."  And, their at our fingertips. 

AMAZON

I don't know about you but I use quite a few stamps.  I saw this lovely hand painted stamp holder on Amazon while searching for something else.  I thought it would make such a lovely addition to my office desk so I ordered it.  And, I think it would make a great gift also.  It's usable and it's attractive.  There are 3-4 different designs to choose from.





AMAZON

If you know someone going through a tough time, this might just be a great gift for them.  It is full of such encouragement straight from the Word of God.  It's pretty enough to leave sitting out all the time too.



AMAZON

I LOVE the automatic candles and they are so realistic.  I just ordered this birch 
style and they are so attractive.  I also have some in the ivory color.  They can be set to come on automatically at the same time every night.  I especially enjoy them in the winter when it gets darker earlier.  It'gives such a warm and inviting look to a room. 

Okie Dokie, that's all for this month.  Wishing you and yours a most wonderful 4th of July!

Welcome Summer!!!

We spent most of last week in Oklahoma, where the wind never stops blowing. We kept our Grandsons while Bridget and a friend went on a 40th birthday getaway.  Yes, our baby girl will celebrate her 40th next week. Yikes!  

It is hardly out of our way to Oklahoma to stop by and see our friends Dwight and Diane.
We always enjoy visiting with them and Diane and I always seem to throw in a little "retail therapy."  We stayed the night and headed on to Oklahoma the next morning and only had about 3 1/2 more hours to go. 

Our first day with the boys found us at Top Golf in Oklahoma City.  If you have never been to one then let me tell you, they are a most impressive place.  Even if you are not in to golf, it's a fun place to hang out and watch those that are in to golfing.  Tommy and Clancy enjoyed hitting balls and Coleman and I enjoyed watching and snacking. 

Clancy is becoming quite the golfer and is playing on a PGA Jr. team this summer.  He has such varied interests, golfing and sheep competition and everything in between. 

The boys stayed with us at the Hampton Inn near where our daughter lives. We took them down to breakfast each morning and they provided an energetic start to everyone's day. 

Coleman goes 90 miles an hour but when he's had all he can take he is "out like a light."  I think the middle picture is so precious, love, love those rosey cheeks.

One afternoon we got word from the neighbor that a part of the hot wired fence had fallen down.  Since it keeps the horses in the pasture, it was pretty important to get it fixed.  Clancy knew exactly what to do and what to get to fix it.  Poppa had to make sure Clancy had fixed it correctly and was pretty impressed that he had done it correctly.  I guess when you live in the country that's the kind of things you learn. ~chuckle~

Bridget and family had their  pictures done a couple of weeks ago and here's a peek at a few of them.  Her "baby bump" is definitely showing now and baby boy will likely make his debut within the first 10 days of September.  We know that he will have a "C" name but will not know his name until he arrives.  I've made several suggestions but not sure they were listening. ~that's the way kids are~

Our first days of summer were off to a great start and we have lots more coming down the pike.  Stay tuned.................

Hot off the press......

June has been full and for us, will be full until the last day.  We've been busy having fun and making a lot of memories.  It's the best stuff that life is made of for sure.  And, we've had some gorgeous weather that has been the "icing on the cake."  

Sometimes a little fishing is in order.  But, this particular evening the fish just were not interested in biting.  The girls quickly loose interest when their cork never goes under so it was a short, but fun time.  We so enjoy having this pond a few steps from our patio, it sure satisfies our desire to live on the water.

I took Hanna Beth for her riding lesson last week and I so enjoyed it.  She's been taking a few months and it's one of the few extra curricular activities that she enjoys, in fact, she loves it!  Her teacher is a retired school teacher and has such a winsome way with kids.  Hanna Beth is learning everything from safety, preparing the horse for riding, and the techniques of riding.   I think she looks like a "natural."

Andi Kate did a great job posing by the blueberry bushes for her latest photo op.  Windy is good to make sure they have family pictures done a couple of times a year and this time she chose a blueberry patch for the backdrop.  I can't wait to see them!  Andi Kate is getting so big and getting more and more of that beautiful red hair.

Tommy and I both enjoy playing Mexican Train Dominos and had the opportunity to play twice last week.  That never happens so we got a "double dose" and so enjoyed both opportunities.  Nothing like good fellowship and fun and of course, good food!



Speaking of good food......I enjoy baking so much and Cowboy Cookies are Hubby's favorite.  So, I made a batch last week and the recipe makes about 10 dozen medium sized cookies and they freeze beautifully.  And, I love having a stash that I can pull from should the need arise.  I don't know if there are several recipes for these but I use the one that Laura Bush made "famous."  They pull up real quickly on the internet just by Googling "Laura Bush Cowboy Cookie" recipe.

Our Lifegroup had a Western and Rock n Roll social last week.  I generally am not into "dressing the part" but I had this hat and boots and just decided it would be fun to wear them.  

It must be picture taking month.  Bridget and her family had their pictures done last week as well and this is one of the boys many shots.  I think it is just about the cutest because of the way Coleman is looking up at big brother Clancy.  And, shortly, they can little brother. ~oh, my~ We can hardly wait to see these two day after tomorrow. 

And, I've been busy, busy making that baby boy a throw.  I have an addiction to making these throws.  I made my first one in March and have now made 10.  Yep! I guess it's a bit like therapy for me and I love seeing the finished product.  I decided that I needed a label to add to them so I had these made by a gal on Etsy.  I had  2 different types made because I am not CiCi to everyone that I may give one too.  This new addiction may explain why I have not blogged as much or read as many blogs. ~just sayin'~

See you when we return from our time with family in Oklahoma.

Saturday 9 - I Learned from You

Saturday 9: I Learned from You (2007)

... Because it's Father's Day weekend.

Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here.

I have never heard this tune.  And, I'm not a fan of Miley or her Dad.  I think they could use their influence in a far better manner. ~just sayin'~ 

1) This song is a duet by the father/daughter team, Miley and Billy Ray Cyrus. Is your family musically inclined?

Somewhat I'd say.  I took piano lessons for 8 years but I have not played in years and years, so not sure if I could find middle C at this point. ~smile~  I also took voice lessons and enjoyed singing until a few years ago and my voice began suffering from the effects of acid reflux.  I know, that's so crazy but it is true and you can ask any Dr.  I went to the ENT a few years back to find out why I couldn't really sing anymore and why my voice was hoarse and he told me that I was dealing with the effects of AF.  Good grief!

My oldest brother is an accomplished guitarist and he and I use to entertain for banquets and such when we were in high school.  Those were some wonderful times for us.  We both sang and he accompanied us on his guitar.  It's sad that I rarely see him now.

2) This song is about life lessons. Who has been a major influence on your life?

Picture taken just before my Mom's death in 2008

Without a doubt, my parents have had the biggest influence in my life.  Now, the Lord has been so gracious to place some awesome folks in my life as well.  Each of those that have had and continue to have great influence in my life have brought different things into my life.  I will be forever grateful for this combination because all of these have made me who I am today.

3) Miley's given name is "Destiny." Her nickname as a baby was "Smiley," which is where Miley came from. What's something that can always be depended upon to make you smile?

We have a 10, 9, 4 and 3 year old grandchild and another one coming in Sept.  These 4 1/2 little blessings can bring a smile about as quick as anything I know.

4) Miley's father, country singer Billy Ray Cyrus, has 5 children in addition to Miley (6 in all). Are you the oldest, the middle or the youngest sibling? Or are you an only child?

Picture taken at my Mom's visitation - 2008

I am the oldest of 3.  I have a brother 3 years younger than me (on the left) and my other brother (standing next to me) is 12 years younger than me.  We more than likely fit the description you often read of birth order. ~smile~

5) Sam's own father often traveled for business, and always remembered to bring her the little complimentary soaps, shampoos or body lotion he got from the hotel. Tell us about an inexpensive but treasured souvenir from a trip you've taken.

I found this piece of handmade pottery in a shop in Williamsburg, Va. about 4 years ago.  It is a gorgeous piece that I definitely treasure.

It looks great on this table in our hall and it represents the good time I had with my extended family on that trip and of course, it represents my birth state.  As to inexpensive, well................

6) Back when Sam was in high school, it was her father who gave her driving lessons. Are you patient when teaching someone something new?

Well, I cannot tell a lie...........no I'm probably not the most patience person when teaching someone something new, especially on the computer.  I can be patient in other areas but not in this one. 

7) Sam's father is easy to buy for: every year he wants a new pair of loafers, so every year for Father's Day she gives him a DSW gift card. Is there anyone on your gift list that you find it easy to buy for?

Our kids and grandkids are not that hard to buy for but that could be because I ask them what they want and they tell me.  It's "easy peasy" and sometimes their Moms even send me the link to order it by.  

8) For family barbecues, Sam's dad dons his "Kiss the Chef" apron and mans the Weber. What's the last thing you cooked on the grill?

I usually grill burgers weekly for our dinner and it was the last thing I grilled and that was last week.  Nothing like a good burger on a summer evening.

9) Sam's father satisfies his afternoon sugar craving with an almost endless stream of Butter Rum Lifesavers. When you crave a snack, do you usually reach for something sweet or salty?

It is always something salty!  I love popcorn and generally have a bowl every night and I also love chips but I try real hard to keep a handle munching on them.  I save them for my sandwich or burger.

NOTE: We'll be heading to see our Oklahoma kids this coming week so I'll be away from writing or reading blogs.  But, no doubt, I'll have plenty to share upon our return.

Wishing each of  you a great weekend and all the Dad's a 
Happy Father's Day!

The Wednesday Medley - Happy National Cheese Day

 

Oh, I do love today's subject, cheese!  I'm not sure if it's not the food of choice for most everyone. It rates right up there with bacon. ~smile~

1.  National Cheese Day is Tuesday, rather than Wednesday, but I think we should celebrate cheese this week!!  Let's start by sharing your favorite cheese with us.  Which one is always in your fridge?

Oh, there's hardly cheese that I don't love.  I always have medium cheddar and Pepper Jake cheese in our refrigerator. 

2.  What is your preference? Mild, Sharp, or Extra Sharp?  How do you use cheese most often?

I prefer mild and I use cheese mostly on sandwiches.  I eat a lot of grilled cheese but I also put a slice of cheese on any other sandwich that I might make. 

3.  Cheesecake?  New York style or what other flavors would you rather have?

Oh, my goodness, YES!!!! Love cheesecake and if cherries and sauce are available, that's all the better.  I really do not care for any kind except the plain.

4.  When you do grilled cheese sandwiches, which cheese do you prefer to use and what condiments do you use, if any?

I have made all kinds of grilled cheese.  I've used Velvetta, cheddar, pepper jack, even Pimento cheese.  I have even used bacon bits sprinkled inside.  Bacon makes anything better as far as I'm concerned.  I LOVE grilled cheese sandwiches!!

5.  Number 5 on June 5th... Say happy birthday to my sister, Tammy!!

6.  Share something with us about your week. If it includes using cheese in a recipe, please also share that with us too!!

This Friday, June 6th, Hubby and I will be celebrating our 48th anniversary.  My goodness, that is a l-o-n-g time!  Thankfully our commitment to God and each other has seen us through each year.  I was 6 weeks shy of my 19th birthday and  didn't have a clue but Tommy was "older" and had a whole lot of patience with me those early years.  Otherwise, we might not have made it.  I was 1000 miles away from my family and missed them so painfully at times and cell phones, Facetime and all these neat ways of being connected were not available.  I was only able to talk to my Momma every other week for about 30 minutes.  I did a whole lot of letter writing.  Those were the days.  We have no big plans for the day but as we both said the other evening, "every day is a celebration at this point."  

Life has been good!