Captive Creativity

Dinner Party Fun

2012-02-12T08:00:00.000-06:00

We had a little couples dinner party a few weeks ago. It was the first time we'd had some a sort of pot luck dinner party, or just a dinner party for that matter, and it was so much fun cooking all together like that and enjoying the effort of making such delicious food together.

It's so great that we have friends that love doing stuff like this. When we were dreaming about having our own house having dinner parties was one of the things I was excited the most about (next to parties, a yard for tanning, and gardening). It's so great to finally start doing them, and I feel like a grown up too. I feel silly that something as simple as this makes me feel that much more grown up but it's a wonderful feeling either way.

I made 5 different types of sorbet which I'll be posting the recipe for soon over at my food blog

The Sweet Details

Marshall's 27th Birthday Party

2012-02-11T08:00:00.000-06:00

After Rudy's we went back to our place for cake and coffee. I tried to make a 14 layer cake but after 10 layers it started to get a little wobbly so I stopped there. I still think it turned out great tho, and super tasty!

I love just a nice and relaxed time with our friends, just chatting and laughing and hanging out. We're super blessed with the people we have in our live. We've tried to be really strategic with who we allow in our lives and who we really invest time in. There's so many people out there and I don't mean to be rude but it's hard to find good quality people that you want to share your life with. We've really developed some amazing friendships and are so happy for nights like this where we can just relax with these wonderful people.

Chicken Wire=Message Board

2012-02-10T08:00:00.000-06:00

Isn't this a great idea? And so cheap! When we bought out house there was a lot of chicken wire left behind and I've kept it trying to think of ways to use it and I love this idea!

Restaurant Review: Simon's Cuisine

2012-02-09T10:04:00.000-06:00

For our dinner club we were supposed to go to a different restaurant but no one called and made a reservation so we didn't know until one of us got there that it wasn't open!

We weren't all there yet, and it was a bit of a drive, so we did a 4 way phone call, and long story short we ended up going here.

I'll be honest, I was a bit frustrated that it was a bit of a gong show trying to sort it all out and that no reso had been made but of course the company and then the food made up for it.

It's a small little place, only around 4-5 tables, but the food is wonderful. You can tell all of the Argentinian people that live around there go there often (based on the fact that it was for sure all family serving and in the kitchen, and that we were the only English/french speaking people there).

I didn't really know what a lot of the items on the menu were and so I just went for it. As usual we all sampled each others food and it was all very very good. The best part? My total bill was $6.50 (keep in mind I'm a girl, and I wasn't super super hungry but still, a great deal!).

I would for sure go back, and I want to show Marshall this place, he'd love it.

On a scale of 1-10 (1- Horrible, it should be closed down!! 10- Amazing, would go back again and again!) I give it 8- Good Service, good food, good pricing, I’d go back if someone really wanted to.

Thrift House: A-Z Book Ends

2012-02-08T08:00:00.002-06:00

Cost: $5

I had my eye on this huge book shelf at JYSK and I bought these book ends because they would look great on it. Then we moved into our house and we realized for now we really have no space for that book shelf so they're on this little shelf. I think they still look pretty great!

Thrift Store Coupon

2012-02-07T10:24:00.000-06:00

Here's the site if you want more!

Not having a baby: Part 4

2012-02-07T08:00:00.002-06:00

If you read my last post about not having a baby you may think that I'm just horrible for not wanting a child. I get that sometimes; "How can you not want such a blessing? Such a bundle of joy??" Stop for a minute and think about it. We're not all the same, we're not all going to have children, and that's ok. Think of all the children out there that don't have a mother or father to take care of them. Do you want that child? A lot of you would say no, and a lot of people just want children because they want a little "mini me". That's not the point of being a parent. The point is to bring love, encouragement and development to that child. To build them up and help them have the best start in life that they can. And as they get older help them as much as you can to be who they are meant to be, to the fullest they can be. If you think I am selfish and the only reason you want a child is to have a little mini you...well...I don't think I'm the selfish one.

I've often thought of adoption, I think I could do it and we've talked about having one or two naturally and then adoption another child. It's up in the air and it's something I'm very serious about looking into when we're at that point (I've already looked into it enough to know the basic costs and how it works).

You may still be wondering what's going on here "She said she didn't want kids". No, that's not true. I don't want kids now, and I don't want a baby. I don't love babies, I have no interest in having a baby. If I could just skip to two years old I would! That's one of the reasons why I'd rather adopt (most people that adopt don't want kids they want babies, I'm the other way around).

I've gone through a really hard time in my life with my parents divorce and other issues and that put me at a point of being really closed off and scared of being hurt. Long story short in all of that I didn't want kids. I didn't think I would ever want kids and I didn't think I would get married either because I just didn't want to risk it. I've come a long way since then and I know I will have children and I'm excited for the time when I want to but that time is simply not now.

I'll be really honest the idea of being pregnant, giving birth and breast feeding freaks me out. Women tell me it's just so natural and wonderful. Ok, I'm sorry but pushing something out of me doesn't seem like something I want to do. And having someone suck and bite me, no thank you! I'm not dreamy about all that. Kids are hard, a lot of work, and they'll drive you crazy. I know that, I'm a realistic so you can't convince me of rainbows and flowers on this issue. So in the end I need to wait because when I get to that point I want to be excited about it. I want to be excited about that new season and that new life. Now would be a very bad time to have a baby so that makes it even more important for me to plan ahead like I am.

I know having children will change my world in a wonderful way, and I know when I'm there I'll be so happy that we've done what we have, waited like we have, and that I'm emotionally and physically ready. It's going to be a beautiful time but for now I'm not having a baby.

Marshall's Family Birthday Party

2012-02-07T08:00:00.001-06:00

So I thought I'd make a few different types. I had some left over icing from all sorts of other baking projects so I thought I'd sort of upcycle it. It works out really well! Peanut butter cream pie, just chocolate and Boston cream pie. Marshall was very happy.

A new wine kit. We've got it going now. I can't wait to try it.

Gourmet Selina Lime Candies

Boston cream pie cupcakes. They're making me want them all over again.

Dear Photography

2012-02-06T08:00:00.001-06:00

Isn't this just a wonderful idea? "take a picture of a picture from the past in the present."

Movie Reel

2012-02-05T08:00:00.000-06:00

Splice- Never watch it, it's gross and nasty!
Albert Nobbs- I really really liked it, but it's not a happy movie.
Colombiana- I liked this one too. I love women being the star in action movies

I started another blog!!

2012-02-04T13:33:00.002-06:00

Hi Lovlies!

I just wanted to let you know that I started a new blog! I'd love to have you come over and support me over there!

Here's what it's about:

Here at Green Girly I'm going to share with you everything I find in my journey to become a better planet keeper, person, lover, friend, sister, wife, daughter, and all around lover of the earth.

Please come on over and show your love!

That one way of doing it

2012-02-03T08:00:00.000-06:00

City benches? How cool right? I think everything, if it can be, should be art....no wait, it can be! Yes, so everything is art.

Source

Restaurant Review: Casa Burrito

2012-02-02T10:06:00.000-06:00

Wow, yum. I don't feel like I need to say all that much. You need to go and try this place, it's super tasty and I will be going back.

It's nothing fancy, not a lot of seating and there's only one speaker so if you are unfortunate enough to sit near it it's really load in there, but the food is worth it.

I think there prices are a little high for what you get but I loved the tacos. And I wanted a hard shell and the cook totally accommodated and crunched it up for me and I loved it! So good! I appreciate stuff like that a lot.

Other then the price I have no complaint. If you want fast (ish) wonderful Mexican food (not super authentically but wonderful) go here.

On a scale of 1-10 (1- Horrible, it should be closed down!! 10- Amazing, would go back again and again!) I give it 9- Great all around, I would go back (After I’ve been to the other place I want to go!)

Ipod Photo A Day: Day 365- The last day of it all!

2012-02-01T08:00:00.003-06:00

Can you believe it? It's been a year! I'll be honest it feels like I've been doing this A Photo A Day project for forever! It's become such a ingrained part of my blogging and live that it just feels like it's always been there, but I'll be honest, I'm glad I'm done. I really enjoyed posting every day and looking back from time to time to see what I've all done and it was for sure worth the time and energy to have all these photos of great memories.

I thought for the last day of my 365 days I'd do a recap of the year. I'm not sure out of 364 photos how I can really recap it but I picked some of my favorites. Thanks for following along with me, and see what I've been up to.

The Parlor with my family

Marshall with his new toys.

12 days of Christmas

I got new worms!

Christmas treat from my mom; lunch at Santa Lucia's

A little picnic for our 2nd anniversary

Free food.

Hanging out at Back Forty Music Festival

Marshall and I at U2

Trying out the bubble tea at Tea Story

A day of plant shopping with mom

Music in Old Market Square

Shopping trip to St. Norbert Farmers Market

A little day trip to Dryden with mom to visit her family

A bike ride to get some treats at Stella's

Tegan & Sarah at The Folk Festival

Doing a foot detox

Ollie loves scooter rides

The rodeo with dad

Honduras

Thrift House: Rocks & Candle Holder

2012-02-01T08:00:00.002-06:00

Cost: $2

I love rocks. I'm sure there are a lot of photos of me from my childhood surrounded by rocks that I had collected, I think I even still have some of them (we had a rail road track behind our house. It was my fav place to hang out and pick new rocks). I bought two of these hand made glass candle holders and then I found these rocks. So pretty. It makes me happy just looking at the rocks. Weird? Well whatever works for you I say!

Highlights of Roatan

2012-01-31T10:52:00.001-06:00

Does this make you want to go to Roatan? It better! It was a lot of fun!!

Boat House

2012-01-31T10:07:00.000-06:00

Isn't this wonderful? It almost looks like you could just pick it up and move it. I love how simple and natural it is. I would love a little cabin in the woods like this.

Ipod Photo A Day: Day 364- Dinner at Rudy's

2012-01-31T08:00:00.000-06:00

Marshall originally didn't want to have a birthday party so I didn't plan anything, but then we had a little skip day and walked around downtown and in the skywalk. We were in the new Manitoba Hydro building and found Rudy's. The owner was there and told us all about the place and we were super impressed. Marshall told me that if we went there he'd want a party so of course I got right on it.

We had a great turn out (parties seem to be hit and miss now a days for some reason...people getting married, having kids or just being too busy I guess?) and the food was amazing.

My burger wasn't very good, there was just way too much on there and all the flavors just sort of mushed together but not in a good way. But I tried everyone else's food and it was all wonderful and full of flavor.

Marshall got a steak and it was the best steak I think I've ever had. Not a cheap dining experience but I would say totally worth it because the quality is there. And the atmosphere in there; it reminds me of a hotel restaurant in Las Vegas, one of the really classy ones, but yet it's soft and warm in there. And the best part is a lot of the decor is reused or refurbished furniture, even the hard wood is from old gym floors. Great right?

You have to check this place out. We will be going again. And our server was wonderful. It was the first time in a long time where I actually felt like they deserved the tip.

On a scale of 1-10 (1- Horrible, it should be closed down!! 10- Amazing, would go back again and again!) I'd give it a 10- Amazing, would go back again and again.

Check out there website here.

Ipod Photo A Day: Day 363- Time for something new

2012-01-30T08:00:00.002-06:00

(This burger consists of two grilled cheeses sandwiches as the bun, lettuce, onions, cheese, lots of bacon, a fried egg and I'm sure a few other things, and then of course the burger. It was seriously the most intense burger I've ever tried to eat!)

I've finally explored the world of uploading videos! This is my first, and seeing as I thought it was going to be a photo and had plans to upload it I thought I'd share it with you here. Something a little different then the usual photos. I think I might start sharing videos all the time! It's a whole new world of blogging opened up to me now that I know how to do it! Ha ha!

Prayer Plant Care

2012-01-30T08:00:00.001-06:00

Prayer plants prefer moderate to low indirect light levels. If the leaves on your plant begin to curl and turn brown, your plant is receiving too much light. Providing this plant with too much direct sunlight can burn the foliage.

Prayer plants require moist but not soggy soil. This houseplant also is one of the few houseplants that does not like its soil to dry out between watering, so try to keep the soil consistently moist at all times.

The biggest need for this houseplant is humidity. It requires high humidity levels to flourish, so a daily misting will go far. If the tips of the foliage begin to brown your plant may not be getting the humidity it needs. By providing high humidity levels, you help in ensuring beautiful flowers bloom. This plant is also very temperamental when it comes to temperature changes. It prefers a range of 65 to 80 degrees, however it does not like fluctuations in temperature. Do keep it away from drafts.

Source

Also I found this very helpful:

Tips:
If the tips of the leaves are turning brown or curling up, the plant is getting too much light. Another cause for brown tips can also be the chlorine found in tap water. Use filtered water or let water sit for 24 hours before watering the plant.

A daily misting can help provide the plant with the humidity it needs that may not be present in your home. You can also set a container of water near the plant, the evaporating water will give the plant some added humidity.

Ipod Photo A Day: Day 362- Best Choice

2012-01-29T10:44:00.001-06:00

Best choice I made so far today; to put puppy chow on my cereal. It's going to be a good Sunday

Not having a baby: Part 3

2012-01-29T08:00:00.004-06:00

Planning. I love planning. I love looking at all the things I want to do and sit down and plan how I'm going to make it happen. I love looking at our incomes and and working out in the budget how we can do a holiday, go out for a fancy dinner, take a road trip, buy a new tv or whatever it is. I love planning and working toward things. I don't think there's anything that I've done that hasn't had some element of planning. And if it was "spontaneous" we had the money in the bank already in a "just in case" or "rainy day" fund.

Planning is almost my best friend I love it so much. Because of good planning we had an amazing wedding, taken a 4 week long honeymoon in Europe (a year earlier then we initially thought), built a house and sold it (a year earlier then we initially thought), bought a triplex, giving us a house to live in, instead of renting, and have 2 rental suits then onto of that (2 years earlier then we initially thought), and the cherry on top we got to get a dog because we got a house and yard for him. And those are just the things in the last 2 years! We have no debt (other then our mortgage) and have taken three major trips in our married life and we're planning the next to Thailand and Bali. (Note: We don't have large incomes, we're in the low 5 figures)

I'm not trying to brag, but like I said last week, I'm selfish and there are a lot of things I want to do before we have a baby and I'm going to plan as much as I can to make these things happen.

Part of planning not to have a baby is birth control. I'm on the pill, I've read up on all the dos and don'ts, we use condoms if I ever get sick in anyway or am late even an hour on taking my pill. I know my ovulation schedule and all of that fun stuff. Take the most anal person you know and 10x that's me when it comes to birth control.

When people talk about having babies and I tell them we're waiting I often get that "Ya, we were on the pill too" where I say "Oh, we're very careful, trust me. We're not getting pregnant" and they reply with "Ya, we were too. And that's what we thought". I mean really...unless I'm drunk (which I never am) I can use a condom and take the pill. Let's be honest people, the pull out method doesn't work, and condoms as your only birth control is not a good option.

The pill costs $20 a month. Ok, yes, annoying to pay for but it's better then hundreds to thousands of dollars a month for having a child. It's a no brainier for me. I want to have $10,000 in the bank for having a baby before we get pregnant, and we don't want to have kids for at least four years, so that's not unrealistic at all. The last thing I want when I have that special new addition to our family is stress about money. I want to be planned and ready so that all there is is joy and happiness for this baby.

Planning isn't a bad thing, waiting isn't a bad thing, in fact it's a great thing. So plan I will and working toward financially and emotionally being ready is what I'm working on. All this brings me to my last issue: Simply not wanting a baby. I'll tell you about that next week.

Ipod Photo A Day: Day 362- Marshall's family birthday lunch

2012-01-28T10:07:00.000-06:00

Marshall picked Original Joe's for his birthday lunch. I wanted to go somewhere where we hadn't been before but after trying five places and having them all be closed or not opening until the evening we had to go with a chain restaurant. They do have really good food tho, so I guess it was ok. And, as you can see, Marshall enjoyed himself so that's all that really matters right? It's his birthday after all!

Living Room Envy

2012-01-28T08:00:00.000-06:00

I seriously love this living room!! It's so my style!

Ipod Photo A Day: Day 361- The first of many

2012-01-27T11:43:00.000-06:00

This was the first of many birthday celebrations for Marshall this year. He'd pick a restaurant that we'd never been to so I tried to make a reservation. They were closed so he picked another, also closed, then another, closed until 5pm (we wanted lunch), then another, closed as well. So we settled for Original Joe's. We'd been there before so I wasn't very excited (you know me, I always want somewhere new) but the food was still good and the portions for the price are crazy big.

Ipod Photo A Day: Day 360- Long time no see

2012-01-26T09:59:00.004-06:00

My girl friend Gina and I hadn't seen each other in over 5 years. We went to high school together and became really good friends but she moved out of province and I moved into the city.

She was coming into town so we met up for sushi and it was like it had only been a couple of weeks since we'd seen each other. It's friends like that, where it feels like time hasn't gone by at all, that I really value. It's not forced or weird trying to catch up but you just get right back in where you left off.

Restaurant Review: Edohei Sushi & Japanese Restaurant

2012-01-26T09:49:00.000-06:00

I went here with my girl friend Gina the other day. I hadn't been for sushi in a while and I was really looking forward to it. I always like to try out new places (as you know) so I looked up "sushi in Winnipeg" and found this one that I hadn't tried.

They had the traditional seating and normal seating so we went for the traditional. I love sitting like that! It's not really on the floor, but they make those high platforms that make you feel like you are, it's just fun. The decor was pretty great, and I give them points for that.

The menu didn't have a lot of options for rolls (only about 8) so it felt pretty limiting if you just wanted a roll, which I did.

I ordered something similar to a dynamite roll, made sure I knew what was in it but for some reason I kept getting tastes (and fire) of wasabi which made it so not enjoyable because I hate wasabi.

My order came to $15 for two rolls but each roll only have 3 pieces!! Thankfully I get full pretty quick but I wasn't very impressed.

I can't say I'll go their again, but it was fun to be with a friend, and the decor and seating made it a good time.

On a scale of 1-10 (1- Horrible, it should be closed down!! 10- Amazing, would go back again and again!) I'd give it a 3- Poor, wouldn’t go back.

Ipod Photo A Day: Day 359- One more and we're done

2012-01-25T09:57:00.004-06:00

Boston Cream Pie cupcakes. My arms still hurt from piping in the cream! (They look wonderful when they have the chocolate frosting on top!)

Thrift House: Punch Bowl & Glasses

2012-01-25T08:00:00.000-06:00

Cost: Free

My mom gave these too me (or borrowed? I'm not sure because I've had them for over a year and she doesn't seem to want them back) when I was throwing a party. It's a great set and there's a smaller bowl in there too which is great for, well anything. I love having a set like this, it's so much better then the usual boring punch bowls. I think my mom has had this one since the 80s too.

Man's Shirt Revamp

2012-01-24T12:01:00.000-06:00

Isn't this great? Not sure how it would work on someone that's not a pencil but I'm willing to give it a try!

Ipod Photo A Day: Day 358- And another

2012-01-24T09:56:00.004-06:00

Make Me Happy Monday: Balloons

2012-01-23T13:01:00.001-06:00

Adeu, Barcelona! from Lucas Jatoba on Vimeo.

Ipod Photo A Day: Day 357- I love Marshall a lot

2012-01-23T09:51:00.000-06:00

One of the three types of cupcakes I made for Marshall for his birthday.

Make your own Kettle Corn

2012-01-23T08:00:00.000-06:00

The other night Marshall and I were settled in for a movie and I got a serious popcorn craving. I wasn't sure at first what type I wanted but then decided on Kettle Corn. I've only ever bought it or made it from microwave popcorn. I'm not eating microwave popcorn anymore (I don't recognize most of the ingredients in there!) and now that I have a wonderful popcorn popper I decided I'd give it a go. I found the following recipes:

Kettle Corn

Tip: Homemade Kettle Corn is much, much tastier when you prepare it with butter-flavor oil.
1/2 cup popcorn
1/4 cup vegetable oil or butter flavor oil
1 1/2 - 3 tablespoons sugar (lightly sweet to very sweet)
Salt to taste

Heat oil in a large, heavy saucepan. Pour in the popcorn, sprinkle sugar on top, and cover. Once the popcorn starts popping, shake the pan continuously until the popcorn is popped. Transfer the kettle corn to a serving bowl and salt lightly. Makes 8-10 cups.

Easy Alternate Directions:

Sprinkle salt and sugar to taste over hot, lightly buttered popcorn.

I took the easier alternative but instead of having the grains of salt and sugar (I hate that) I melted butter and sugar together and then put it over top of the popcorn. It made for a little bit sweeter of a Kettle Corn but still very very good (I think next time I'll put a little more salt on, instead of just the salt that's in the butter)

Ipod Photo A Day: Day 356- Everything is better with butter

2012-01-22T09:47:00.000-06:00

Ipod Photo A Day: Day 355- Wonderful surprise

2012-01-21T09:43:00.002-06:00

I forgot we still have a lot of puppy chow in the freezer. So tasty.

Ipod Photo A Day: Day 354- Veggie Love

2012-01-20T09:41:00.000-06:00

This is how I get more veggies in Marshall- make it look nice and unhealthy.

Health Tip of the Week: The Gallbladder Cleanse

2012-01-20T08:00:00.001-06:00

What you need:

4 tbsp Epson Salts
½ cup Olive Oil
1 Large Pink Grapefruit
Jar (with lid)

Choose a day for this cleanse like a Saturday so that you can rest the next day. Take no medications, vitamins or pills that you can do without as they may prevent success. Stop any parasite program, and discontinue use of kidney herbs the day before. Eat a no fat breakfast and lunch such as cooked cereal with fruit, fruit juice, bread, preserves or honey. DO NOT eat any milk, butter, cheese etc. Bake potatoes and other vegetables are allowed with salt only. This eating batter allows bile to build up and develop pressure in the liver. Higher pressure pushes out more stones.

Before 2pm- Drink a tall glass of juice (before 2pm)

2pm- DO NOT EAT OR DRINK AFTER 2PM (If you break this rule you could feel ill later)

Get your Epson sales ready. Mix 4 tbsp in 3 cups of water and pour this into a jar. This makes 4 servings- ¾ cup each. Set the jar in the refrigerator to get ice cold. (this is for convince and taste only).

6pm- Drink one serving (3/4 cup) of Epson salt water. If you did not prepare this ahead of time, mix 1 tbsp in ¾ water now. You may also drink a few sips of water afterward or rinse your mouth. Get the olive oil and grapefruit out to warm up.

8pm- repeat drinking another (¾ cup) of Epson salt water. You have not eaten since 2pm but you will not feel hungry. T is not recommended that you get any chores done before going to be because once you’ve taken the mixture the body needs to be still.

TIMING IS CRITIAL FOR SUCCESS. DO NOT BE MORE THAN 10 MINUTES EARLY OR LATE.

9:45pm- Pour ½ cup olive oil into the pint jar. Squeeze the grapefruit by hand into the measuring cup. Remove pulp with fork. You should have a least ½ cup or more (3/4 cup is best). Add this to the olive oil. Close the jar tightly with the lid and shake hard until watery. (only fresh grapefruit juice will do this)

10:00pm- Drink the grapefruit/olive oil mixture. You can drink through a large plastic straw if you need to, which will make it go down easier. You may use ketchup, cinnamon, or brown sugar to chase it down between sips if you need to. Take it to your bedside if you want, but drink it sitting up. Get it down within 5 minutes (15 for elderly or weak persons). Lie down immediately. You might fail to get stones out if you do not.

It is important that as soon as you drink the mixture to lie flat on your back with your head high on a pillow. Try to visualize stones moving out of your body. Keep still for 20 minutes. You may feel a train of stones traveling down the bile duct like marbles. There is no pain because the build valve is open due to the Epson salts. Go to sleep, this will insure success.

Next morning- upon awakening take your third dose of Epson salt water. If you have indigestion or nausea wait until it goes before drinking the salt water. You may go back to bed after drinking the mixture; it is advised not to take it before 6am.

2 hours later- Take the fourth and last dose of Epson salt water. Drink ¾ cup of the mixture (this should be the amount that is remaining). You may go back to bed if you needed.

After 2 more hours- you may eat. Start with fruit juice. Half an hour later eat fruit. One hour later you may eat regular food but keep it light. By supper you should be fully recovered.

You will notice during the cleanse that you body will flush out objects that look somewhat green and odd shaped. They are slimy to the touch and come in different sizes, ranging from the head of a pin all the way up to a nickel coin or a bit larger. Each flush is different, some will produce a slight amount of stones, and other may yield cups.

After the cleanse it is recommended to drink two cups of Dandelion tea for 10 days, or check with your practitioner about dandelion capsules.

Honeymoon Redo: Luxury Jade Mountain Resort in St. Lucia

2012-01-20T08:00:00.000-06:00

I'd go here any day!!

Ipod Photo A Day: Day 353- Better late then never

2012-01-19T09:39:00.001-06:00

My Christmas Cactus is finally blooming.

Beautiful & Unique: Lynne Roy

2012-01-19T08:00:00.000-06:00

1) What's your name?

Lynne Marie and my blog is my guide to positive conscious living

2) Where do you live now and where did you grow up?

Current city, Winnipeg Manitoba; however, I grew up in a small town in southeastern Manitoba. Country girl at heart.

3) What's one beauty secret or lesson you learned from your mom?

Condition the tips of your hair to keep them from drying out. It will extend the time between trims when you want to grow your hair out.

4) What's one obstacle in your life that you have had to over come?

Something that made you feel ugly or not unique. I was teased a lot as a child. Elementary school, middle-, and high-school was difficult.

5) What makes you unique?

I am no longer afraid to try new things. My personal style has changed, I like to be edgy. It's the feeling test; if it feels good, I'm going to try it.

6) If you could change one thing about yourself what would it be?

I wouldn't change anything on the outside, although if you would have asked me this question 10 years ago, I would have said "Everything!".

I have one eye bigger than the other, for years I was hiding behind my glasses for fear of being ridiculed. As I grew older, I realized that not only was I limiting my style by hiding behind specs but I was also hindering my happiness. No one is perfect, everyone has flaws, so be proud of them, they are yours... No one else is like you.

On the inside, I believe that I am still growing and continually changing to be a better me.

7) What has helped you to appreciate yourself for who you are?

Self reflection. Knowledge. Taking risks and following my intuition.

8) If you could teach the upcoming generation one thing about themselves what would it be?

If you have to do something to make someone else happy, it won't make you happy. Only do things that bring you joy, because in turn, others will be reap from your joy. Don't listen to negative, toxic people.

9) What's your favorite thing about yourself?

I like my sense of humour, my whole life I have always made people laugh. I love love love my hair :)

10) What makes you beautiful and how do you remind yourself of that?

Confidence. I say affirmations every day, when I get up and when I go to bed. It makes me feel good. Look up affirmations for some examples. Basically, you find your own along the way.

Want to contribute to this series? Here's how!

Ipod Photo A Day: Day 352- New Chairs

2012-01-18T09:37:00.000-06:00

I found these chairs at the thrift store and recovered them. I'm super in love with them.

Total cost: $100.

Thrift House: Sea Shells

2012-01-18T08:10:00.000-06:00

Cost: $4?

I bought these when I was around 14. I had a huge obsession with the ocean and anything sea related so when I saw these sea shells I had to get them. I had the more white one first and then I found the other and I was in heaven. I got rid of a lot of things with moving and growing up but I'm really glad I kept these. They're in the bathroom right now and they look great in there.

Restaurant Review: Green Leaf Cafe

2012-01-17T15:00:00.000-06:00

Marshall and I were having a bit of a skip day and we went for a walk downtown. We stopped in here, Marshall got a coffee, I got a smoothie. Marshall's sort of a coffee snob and for a place that serves organic fresh ground coffee this place did not do it well. My smoothie on the other hand was wonderful. I had a kiwi calmer, which was pink, so I didn't totally get that but it was still so tasty. I don't think a lot of the food is really organic and super healthy, but it sure is better then Burger King or somewhere else. Based on the drinks I'm not sure we'll go and eat there anytime soon, but we will, eventually.

On a scale of 1-10 (1- Horrible, it should be closed down!! 10- Amazing, would go back again and again!)5- Average, I wouldn’t go back, but at least I tried it!

Oh laughing

2012-01-17T10:14:00.000-06:00

I saw these for the first time yesterday and I thought I'd share them with you. A little something to make you laugh and love being a woman (or having a woman in your life).

Ipod Photo A Day: Day 351- No, I don't think it's working

2012-01-17T09:30:00.002-06:00

Remember my post about trying a new hair style? I gave it a go....I don't think it's working yet...

Ipod Photo A Day: Day 350- Just another day for Ollie

2012-01-16T09:30:00.001-06:00

Not having a baby: Part 2

2012-01-16T08:00:00.003-06:00

Last week I talked about the pressure of having a baby. I don't do things like that under pressure. I don't do things just because others want me to, especially when it comes to such a huge life decision. And I mean wow, to having a baby just because "everyone" says you should? That is not a strong person! And guaranteed you will have times of resentment and regret and who wants that when it comes to your child. To me that's the last thing you want. Which brings me to the second issue...

I'm too selfish to have a baby.

I love my life just the way it is. That's not a bad thing, it just is what it is. I want my evening and weekends, I want my 8-9 hours of sleep each night, and if I want to be up till two in the morning it's going to be because there was a great party. I love spending my money on me, and my house, and Marshall and going out. I love taking holidays and going to movies whenever we want. That's just where I'm at and I love it.

I've heard people say "Having a baby makes you less selfish". Well of course it will, you have no choice! What are you not going to feed and dress your baby? For me I want to work on my selfish now, and do all the things that I want to do now and get to a baby when I'm ready. I have goals, and things that, well, simply are selfish, and I want to get them done before a baby comes along.

I don't think there's anything wrong with that and I want my babies to come into the world with me happy and ready, being satisfied with the things I've gone out and done with my life before hand. I know life doesn't end when you have a baby; I'm not saying that at all but a lot of things changes and I want to be sure that I'm ready and happy with what I've done. This brings me to my next issue- planning, which I'll talk about next week.

Honeymoon Redo: Hermosa Beach, Costa Rica

2012-01-16T08:00:00.000-06:00

Honeymoon here? Yes please! This place is for rent!!

Ipod Photo A Day: Day 349-My Pretty

2012-01-15T16:23:00.000-06:00

I don't think I've ever posted a picture of my amazing fur coat. It's so classy and chic and just wonderful. I feel like a glam girl from the 50's. Not bad for a $20 purchase!

Ipod Photo A Day: Day 348-Not today

2012-01-14T16:19:00.000-06:00

Isn't this beautiful? I saw it in the airport and I really was tempted to get it but it was $250. A bit too much for such a quick purchase, so I did the next best thing - took a picture.

Health Tip of the Week: Gallstone Cleanse

2012-01-14T08:00:00.000-06:00

I was suffering from intense headaches for a few months when my naturopath suggested I might have gallstones and that could be contributing to the headaches. I didn’t know why I (healthily, young etc.) would have gallstones but I was willing to find out. He gave me a cleanse and I was supposed to do it three times over two months. It’s a pretty intense cleanse, and I wouldn’t suggest you trying it unless you are serious about this, and really want to do it right.

After doing the cleanse just once I knew I had gallstones. I don’t want to be gross but I was shocked at the stones I passed, some of them were as big as quarters and some as small as peas and pin heads.

I did go forward and finish the three cleanse and I was happy I did. So if you are “all about the cleanses” and want to try this one, or if you are struggling with this and don’t want to go for surgery I would suggest trying this first! If you do it right it works!

Check back next week for the complete cleanse and instructions! But in the mean times here are some things you should know about your gallbladder and gallstones.

About Gallstones

One in ten people suffers from symptomatic (painful) gallstones, making gallstones one of the most common digestive disorders in the world. They are also among the most painful. Gallstone attacks are caused by an inflamed gallbladder going into spasms when a stone hits the sensitive inner lining of the gallbladder. The pain starts in the upper-right abdomen and can last for days.

Gallstones are also extremely dangerous. If left untreated, they can lead to potentially fatal complications such as ruptured gallbladder, liver failure and pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas). Each year, thousands of people die from conditions brought on by untreated gallstones, and thousands more undergo risky surgery to remove their gallbladder.

You might have gallstones and not even know it. Millions of people carry so-called 'silent' gallstones that do not cause symptoms yet continue to grow in the gallbladder. Eventually, they grow large enough to cause pain or internal damage.

Why Do Gallstones Form?

Gallstones are not just a problem of the gallbladder - they're also a problem of the liver. New research on gallstones has revealed they're formed by a combination of poor liver function and incomplete gallbladder contractions.

Your liver produces a digestive fluid called bile. This fluid is stored in the gallbladder and breaks down dietary fat. When we eat foods that contain fats, the gallbladder contracts completely, releasing the bile into the small intestine.

Because the liver also acts as the blood's main filter, it is exposed to many toxins. These toxins take their toll on the liver and weaken it. Instead of producing free flowing bile, the liver produces thick, sticky bile over-saturated with cholesterol.

Gallstones form when this bile builds up in the gallbladder. Usually, the gallbladder fully contracts and empties out bile. However, many people have gallbladders that only partly contract. These partial contractions leave behind bile sludge in the gallbladder. Eventually, the cholesterol molecules in the bile sludge harden to form gallstones.

Time for some new hair

2012-01-13T11:08:00.000-06:00

I love my hair style, and I don't really feel like it's gone out of style but I've had it for at least 6 years so it's time for a change. I think maybe something a little more mature?

This is us in Amsterdam, one of our stops during our European honeymoon. That was two years ago and my hair looks almost exactly the same right now. Lots of bangs, and around shoulder length. I want to keep growing it out, to mid back, and then maybe to something like these ladies!

I really like Chelsea's hair. I don't look great with a middle part though. I think I want something like this but more to the side. I'm going to keep my colour, in fact I'm trying to grow out the natural color and then I think I want to do a little ombre hair like Drew here. Now I just have to wait for these bangs to grow out...It feels like when I want them to stay short they grow in super fast and when I want them to grow out they take forever!

If I wanted to keep my bangs a bit I think I'd go with this.

Ipod Photo A Day: Day 347-Bubble tea time

2012-01-13T08:00:00.001-06:00

Spinach Zucchini Spaghetti

2012-01-13T08:00:00.000-06:00

I have been trying to make different meals lately, more health options, with lots of veggies. I heard of something like this before, and me being the type of person that I am I just sort of started throwing stuff together and came up with something pretty good. Sometimes it's hit and miss but this time worked out well so I wanted to share it with you. It's not totally exact because, well like I said I made it up as I went, but you'll get the idea.

- 1 pack of frozen chopped spinach (1 cup)
- 2 medium zucchinis chopped
- 1-2 pounds of ground beef cooked
- 1 large can of tomato sauce
- 3 cups of chopped tomato (canned, fresh or frozen, doesn't matter)
- 2 tablespoons sea salt
- 1 tablespoon rosemary
- 2 tablespoons thyme
- any other spice you like!

Cook beef in a frying pan (once done drain out the fat/oil).

In a slow cooker combine veggies, tomatos and spices. Put on medium heat.

Once the meat is cooked add it to the slow cooker. Cook on simmer/low for 4 hours. (I cooked mine over night, it just made it that much better)

I used whole wheat noodles, and raw mozzarella cheese, so tasty!

Ipod Photo A Day: Day 346- Skull faced lover

2012-01-12T08:00:00.001-06:00

Marshall and I were at a masquerade party over the weekend. It was a lot of fun and I had a great time painting our faces.

My Favs.

2012-01-12T08:00:00.000-06:00

I've found myself at different times with a lot of time on my hands and with traveling and layovers I wanted to have some entertainment so I've gotten back into the world of TV and now am seriously hooked. I know I'm always looking for new shows to check out so I thought I'd share with you my favs, and my "Ya, I'll watch it" shows.

This is my new fav. Marshall and I just finished watching the first season and got right into the second. In fact we were up till 1:30 watching last night...We can't get enough!

I used to like this show a lot more...I miss the sexual tension between House and Cutty, I want her to come back... I sort of feel like the show needs to end already. It had it's climax now it's just pocking along.

Oh man, I'm so glad I finally started watching this show. I love and hate that I can relate so well with this show. It makes me laugh at and appreciate my family. Claire and Phil are my fav!

Oh so great! I love this show. I wish that I had a group of friends like this!

I find that this one is sort of repetitive, can't watch one after another but I just love the characters.

I couldn't wait for this to get back on the air. I love these types of shows...Vampires in love. I don't know, I just like it.

I'm just getting into this one. I think it's funny, but it's sort of a "I'll watch it" or a filler for me if I run out of episodes of the other shows I love.

I know, I know, but I am a sucker for reality tv. I love all the spin off shows too.

My sister told me I should watch this, that they remind her a lot of me and Marshall and it's so true! It makes me laugh a lot!

It's one of these shows you shouldn't really watch one after the other. It's a comedy, it all starts to sort of be the same after a while but still a good time.

Ipod Photo A Day: Day 345- My pretty, you're here!

2012-01-11T08:00:00.004-06:00

Yes, I finally got some prints from The Black Apple. I'm so excited about them. I just need to find frames now.

Thrift House: Napkin Holder

2012-01-11T08:00:00.003-06:00

Cost: $3

I forget where I saw one like this originally but it was $30. I loved it but there was no way I was getting it. Then I found this, and well perfect right? I think I need to start buying larger napkins for it but either way I really like it.

Norfolk Pine (Araucaria heterophylla) Care

2012-01-10T15:35:00.000-06:00

I was at my favorite garden center and they had all of there Christmas plants and arrangements on sale and I saw a beautiful Norfolk Pine arrangement. It also has two other plants with it (that I am yet to figure out what they are!) and it's just so pretty! It also came in this fabric sort of pot that's made from recycled plastic bottles! It was $60 but I got it for $14 which I am very excited about.

I read up a little about this plant and so far so good, but here's some info, for you and for me, on this wonderful plant.

It makes me feel like I'm in the forest having this plant. I love it!

Known botanically as Araucaria heterophylla, the plant is native to Norfolk Island in the South Pacific between Australia and New Zealand.

Watering:
Water then the first inch of the soil is dry. Water enough to get run off through the drainage holes and discard of that water.

Lighting:
Although the Norfolk Island pine will adapt to bright indirect light, the plant will look its best with a couple of hours of direct sunlight daily. Five feet from a window is as far as you should try if you wan the plant to get larger. If the light source is coming from just one direction, you'll want to rotate the plant a quarter turn weekly to keep it from tilting toward one side.

Humidity:
What is most challenging for the typical home gardener is giving this plant the high relative humidity it needs. Norfolk Island pine thrives at 50 percent relative humidity, yet it is not unusual for the average house to drop to 15 percent during the winter heating season, unless steps are taken to increase moisture in the air. Running a humidifier will increase the comfort of people and plant and is the most effective way to adequately raise the humidity.

It's suggested to mist the plant every day to really help the plant thrift (I've been doing that and so far so good! It's looking great and lush.)

Fertilizer:
When the plant is growing, feed with a fertilizer formulated for indoor foliage plants. It is not unusual for the plant to be in a period of rest during the winter months, at which time there is no need to fertilize.

Growth/Height:
When given proper care, the Norfolk Island pine will outgrow most indoor spaces, not surprising when you consider that it can reach up to 200 feet tall in its native habitat!

Info Source

Ipod Photo A Day: Day 344- The House

2012-01-10T13:17:00.003-06:00

Here's the house we rented for our time in Roatan.

Ipod Photo A Day: Day 343- So cute

2012-01-09T13:15:00.000-06:00

These dogs barked and got really angry every time we walked by but then we started feeding them. Now every time we walk by they just stand there wagging their tales hoping we having something for them.

Not having a baby: Part 1

2012-01-09T08:00:00.005-06:00

For one of my classes in school we have the assignment of writing four blog posts. I already have three blogs so I decided I'd write and post them on here (lucky you guys!). We were asked to pick any topic we like.

I thought about it for a while, bounced back and forth for a while and was struggling with what I could write about that would create enough content to cover four posts. I thought about some of my travels but I've posted so much about that, I thought about wedding planning, but well, I didn't want it to be an informative post, but more personal. Then I remembered how I wanted to get more personal and real with you all and write more about my feelings and thoughts. I've done the Confessions posts, and I plan to keep doing those but I thought having children is something I can for sure write a lot about! So here goes, sit back and get ready. You may or may not like what I have to say, but after all this is my blog, and my self expression, so take it or leave it.

Disclaimer: I will have children, I think kids are great, and a blessing, and everyone has a different path in life that is right for them.

Not having a baby: Issue 1, Pressure

I get a lot of pressure to have children. I'm 26 and I feel very young but there's this pressure of getting on it.

There's a mix of two worlds within my life:

The one that is the average person my age: travels, goes to school, doesn't get married till at least 30, and kids are something that's optional, not something they feel they have to do. My mom, sister, and dad fall into this category as well. They don't pressure me, they don't ask or tell me when I should have children but rather encourage me to do what I want, when I want and tell me "It's your life, you can do whatever you want!"

The other is the Mennonite side of things. Marshall- my husband- comes from two Mennonite sides, both of which got on having kids at 16 or 18 years old. It was get married and have kids. That was the life you lived. And at times it was get preggo, oh, opps, now we get married.

On my mom's side I've never felt pressure, and on my dad's side (also 100% Mennonite) I don't feel a lot of pressure but I also don't see them that often, likely not often enough to have pressure applied.

Now me, being the free spirited person that I am, I don't want to do anything someone tells me to do. I don't want to live by anyone else's rules but I want to decide 100% for myself. I am married, so of course I need to make these sort of decisions with my husband but knowing myself well enough I didn't pick a man that couldn't handle that side of me.

So the first issue with me having children is pressure. I won't do anything under pressure to confirm, that's just not who I am. And that's pretty much all I need to say about that.

Don't worry, if you feel like this post was a little stunted it was. That's because I have so much to say that I had to stop myself somewhere! I'll have lots more to say next week.

Ipod Photo A Day: Day 342- Also everywhere...

2012-01-08T13:12:00.002-06:00

They're growing on the ground, they're growing through walls and fences. I wish we could grow hibiscus here that easy!

Candida Diet Supper: Shrimp and Broccoli Stir-fry

2012-01-08T08:00:00.000-06:00

Source

For 2 servings:

1 lb. frozen raw shrimp, thawed
1 head fresh broccoli
1 chopped red pepper
2 Tbsp. olive oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/4 cup water
2 tsp. grated fresh ginger root

In heavy skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and vegetables and stir fry for 2-3 minutes. Add water, ginger root and thawed shrimp. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for an additional 4-5 minutes until vegetables are hot and shrimp is pink.

Ipod Photo A Day: Day 341- Everywhere

2012-01-07T13:10:00.000-06:00

These beautiful pink and dark purple plants were everywhere. They almost seemed like they were just weeds, but so pretty!

Ipod Photo A Day: Day 340- Random

2012-01-06T13:08:00.000-06:00

Not what I expected to see in the tropics.

How to make honey lemon troat lollies

2012-01-06T08:00:00.000-06:00

Don't these look great? I'm going to give it a go once I've eaten through all the ones I have in the house (I'm trying not to buy/make in excess!)

Honey Lemon Throat Lollies

2 C. sugar
1/2 C. honey
3/4 C. water

juice of 1/2 lemon

1-2 Zinc tablets, crushed (optional)
1-2 Vitamin C tablets, crushed (optional)

Looks yummy right? Get all the details from the original post at Heart, Hands, Home: Putting Proverbs 31 Into Action

Ipod Photo A Day: Day 339- Better view?

2012-01-05T12:59:00.003-06:00

Pretty great right?

1001 in 101 update!

2012-01-05T08:00:00.001-06:00

I figured seeing as it's the time of the year to make resolutions I would go through this list and see how I've done! I think I've done ok so far, but I have a long way to go if I want to get this done in 1001 days! And I'm not even sure what day I'm on but I'm pretty sure at least 80 days have gone by!! I love planning ahead like this tho, it makes me feel like I have (which I do) so much to look forward to you know?

At any rate here's what I've done so far, all the ones in purple are done!

Have you made any New Year's goals or resolutions?

I'd like to add one to the list: Don't buy things I don't need, sell the things I have that I don't need, and create a more minimalistic home style, but still maintain a warm and welcoming feel.

Relationally
2. Have a dinner by candle light
3. Host a dinner party
22. Read a marriage book with Marshall
24. Take a marriage course with Marshall
31. Have at least 4 double dates a month
32. Hang out more with my girl friends
33. Talk to my sister on the phone or Skype at least 2 times a month
59. Take Ollie for a walk at least once a week
66. Kiss out in the rain
67. Kiss during fire works
68. Private
75. Give flowers to someone
80. Say I love you to Marshall at least once a day
81. Encourage Marshall with something he’s really good at, at least once a week
82. Cook at least one meal together (with Marshall) a month
94. Have at least 2 sit down dinners at home with Marshall a week
95. Spend more time with my in laws

Fun
1. See 10 classic movies that I have never seen before
5. Attend a film festival
25. Dye my hair red
27. Try out a new or different restaurant each month, or 12 a year
43. Influence a person to make a Day Zero List
46. Bake a 14 layer chocolate cake for someone
62. Watch my way through Lost
69. Watch 26 new movies, one for each letter of the alphabet
71. Go to a rodeo
98. Write a letter to myself to open in 10 years
99. Watch Gone With The Wind
101. Go on a hot air balloon ride

For Me
6. Buy something from Etsy
7. Identify and write out 100 things that make me happy
13. Grow my hair out to mid back
21. Get a job I love
28. Get a bike that I really love
29. Watch my way through Ugly Betty
30. Work out at least 4 times a week
34. Finally buy myself a sewing machine
40. Get curtains for our bedroom that match the theme and other colors in there
44. Journal at least once a week
45. Identify 100 things that makes me angry/annoyed
57. Update my quote book with new quotes from the last few years
60. Keep my last air plant alive
61. Find a way to keep my desk organized all the time and now have papers and things pile up
74. Get a great tan naturally
76. Buy 5 new indoor plants
83. Read a book about grace
84. Pray more
85. Eat at least one serving of veggies a day
86. Drink 2 liters of water a day
89. Become more organized with my note taking
90. Work on my spelling
91. Make a goal chart and schedule things in so I make sure they happen!

Financially
9. Save $500 in my own account
12. Build and sell another house
18. Build and maintain our Emergency fund to $10,000
52. Lower my burn rate (of money)
53. Find more ways to be creative with food and cooking
54. Spend $250 a month on groceries instead of $300
55. Start saving for retirement
70. Figure out why my roof leaks and fix it permanently
92. Put up a new fence in our yard
93. Get rid of Ollie's nervous/excited peeing problem
100. Paint the kitchen

Blog Stuff
4. Start a blog series on unique women
20. Get my wedding blog looking professional
47. Get 100 followers for my blog (food blog)
48. Get 100 followers for my blog (this blog)
56. Finish my Ipod Photo a Day project
58. Post my favorite quote here, on my blog
64. Learn how to make really cool blog buttons
65. Figure out how to make the photos I post on my blog bigger
87. Blog on both of my blogs every day
88. Comment more consistently on blog posts that I like

Learning
8. Train my dog to not bark all the time
10. Bake my way through a baking cook book
11. Cook my way through a cook book
16. Read at least a book a month
17. Learn how to grow a garden
19. Learn to make wine all by myself (Marshall did most of it the last time we did it)
23. Take at least 2 courses at my church
35. Sew a quilt
41. Learn how to use my DSLR better
42. Watch a documentary a month
49. Sew myself a dress
50. Make bread
51. Make hard candies
63. Learn how to use my MAC better
77. Paint all the baseboards white
78. Build something out of wood (maybe a book shelf?)
79. Learn how to make creme brulee
96. Figure out how to get my couch to connect together
97. Stay awake for 24 hours

Travel
14. Take a trip with my mom and sister
15. Go to Asia with Marshall
26. Go to all 50 states
36. Go camping
37. Sleep under the stars
38. Go Sailing
39. Visit my sister in Montreal (or where ever she is when I get to this goal)
72. Take an all inclusive holiday because Marshall loves them
73. Spend a day on the beach

Ipod Photo A Day: Day 338- Not quite what I wanted

2012-01-04T12:55:00.000-06:00

My first try at rum raisin ice cream. Nope, don't like it.

Thrift House: Yellow Pillow

2012-01-04T08:00:00.000-06:00

Cost: $1

I was looking for a cute little pillow for my green couch and I loved this design but in the department stores they were anywhere from $16-$30 and I was so not interested in paying that for one pillow. Then on a thrifting trip with my mom I found this! $1? Yes please!

Ipod Photo A Day: Day 337- Scooter Time

2012-01-03T12:54:00.000-06:00

The guys went golfing so us girls got the scooters and went to a private island/key. It was great, even with all the sand flies.

Ipod Photo A Day: Day 336- I don't know why I love rocks so much

2012-01-02T12:52:00.000-06:00

Make Me Happy Monday: Photo Fun Wall

2012-01-02T08:00:00.001-06:00

Source

Driftwood Mantel & Airplant Home

2012-01-02T08:00:00.000-06:00

Isn't this a wonderful idea? If I had a place to do this I totally would! My air plants would look so cool displayed that way!!

Check out more wonderful ideas over at Ladybird & Fellow

Christmas at our house

2012-01-01T21:57:00.000-06:00

Movie Reel

2012-01-01T11:07:00.000-06:00

I liked Rango. I'm not usually a huge fan of animation but I didn't mind that one, I think because it was a bit more adult.

The Devil's Double I thought was very well made and I was impressed by how Dominic Coooper played both characters. You know the actor is doing a good job when you can tell the distinction between the two characters.

And then of course there are a few "class" movies in there. When we were in Roatan we all got a little under the weather with either bad water or the heat so we took it easy and watched movies a few times. There's nothing like The Saint, or Robin Hood. Just such great movies!

Ipod Photo A Day: Day 335- Girl Time

2012-01-01T10:01:00.000-06:00

The boys went golfing, us girls when to the beach on the scooters.

Ipod Photo A Day: Day 336- The Beach

2011-12-31T10:02:00.000-06:00

Doors on a wall

2011-12-30T09:47:00.000-06:00

Wonderful right? I don't think it could get any more whimsically modern.

Ipod Photo A Day: Day 334- Hello sunshine, I've missed you

2011-12-29T22:01:00.000-06:00

Roatan, first day!

Ipod Photo A Day: Day 333- Pattern Love

2011-12-28T16:56:00.001-06:00

Baking My Way: Pillsbury Rhubarb Pastry Bars

2011-12-28T08:00:00.002-06:00

I have had rhubarb in my freezer since last summer and I thought it was time to use it. And it just so happened that there was just one recipe in the book with rhubarb so it worked out perfectly.

I don't know if you can tell in the photo below but my rhubarb was like rubber. I tried to cut it with a knife and that was useless. Then I tried to chop it in the blender but it was super stringy and just got caught up in the blades. I was starting to think it wasn't going to work out and I was wondering if I could maybe use blueberries instead (?) but then I got out the scissors and tried that out. The blender worked a little so between the two I managed to get pretty small pieces. I mixed it all together and spread it on the pastry and crossed my fingers.

It didn't need to cook nearly as long as it said in the recipe but it turned out super great! I didn't have any icing sugar in the house when I made these but you know they taste great without the glaze too!

INGREDIENTS

Pasty

1 pkg. active dry yeast

1/4 cup warm water

4 cups all purpose flour

1/4 cup sugar

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 cup margarine or butter

3/4 cup warm milk

Filling

4 cups finely chopped fresh or frozen rhubarb

3/4 cup sugar

1 (3-oz.) pkg. strawberry flavor gelatin

Glaze

1 cup powdered sugar

1 tablespoon margarine or butter, melted

1 to 2 tablespoons milk

I thought I would hit three birds with one stone and watched Breakfast at Tiffany's and had a smoothie while I baked.

DIRECTIONS
Heat oven to 400°F. Grease 15x10x1-inch jelly roll pan. In small bowl, soften yeast in warm water (105 to 115°F.). In large bowl, combine flour, 1/4 cup sugar and salt. With pastry blender or fork, cut in 1 cup margarine until crumbly. Add yeast mixture and 3/4 cup warm milk (105 to 115°F.); mix well.

Divide pastry dough in half; shape into balls. Between sheets of waxed paper, roll out each ball of pastry to 17x12-inch rectangle. Remove top sheet of waxed paper from 1 rectangle. Place pastry rectangle in greased pan; remove remaining waxed paper. Press pastry over bottom and slightly up sides of pan.

(I didn't have any yeast, and I don't like it anyways so I used this substitute)

In medium bowl, combine all filling ingredients. Spread evenly in pastry-lined pan. Remove top sheet of waxed paper from remaining pastry rectangle; place over filling. Remove remaining waxed paper. Seal edges securely. Prick top pastry with fork in several places.

Bake at 400°F. for 25 to 35 minutes or until light golden brown.

In small bowl, combine all glaze ingredients, adding enough milk for desired glaze consistency; blend until smooth. Drizzle over warm bars. Cool 1 hour or until completely cooled. Cut into bars.

Source

Christmas Eve with Mom

2011-12-27T08:00:00.000-06:00

Before we went away we had a little "Christmas Eve" time with my mom. One of our traditions is to open a gift, or our stockings on Christmas Eve and because we were going to be away until Christmas day we planned ahead and had a little faux Christmas Eve before we left!

Who couldn't use another plant? (Well, other then me, I've lost count of how many I have)

I made my mom a "batch" of Cowgirl cookies in a jar. She got a kick out of it, and these cookies are seriously good!

Ollie really wasn't into this. He was so not happy to have this Christmas stuff on but he just looked so cute!

And of course Ollie gets some gifts too. He was inseparable from this toy for the rest of the night.

A beautiful ornament from my mom (Another Christmas tradition; I get a new one for my tree every year)

Lavender solid perfume and lemon grass essential oil.

Some money for our trip and hot pepper jelly.

Some treats for our trip and some cocktail picks.

He's very excited about these knives. I'll get some better pictures but they are seriously sexy knives!

And a couple of ties form me. It was a great night, and wow does my mom know how to spoil us!

Ipod Photo A Day: Day 331- My favorite time of day

2011-12-26T16:54:00.000-06:00

Work Christmas Party

2011-12-26T15:08:00.000-06:00

Make Me Happy Monday

2011-12-26T09:51:00.000-06:00

So cute right? It made me smile.

Happy Monday all!

Rex Begonia Plant Care

2011-12-26T08:00:00.003-06:00

Origin: Asia and India

Height: Up to 1 ft (30 cm)

Light: Bright light, but no direct sun which can scorch the leaves. Thrives under fluorescent light.

Water: Keep soil evenly moist at all times, but be careful not to overwater because the rhizomes are prone to rot in soggy soil. Avoid getting water on leaves because they may spot.

Humidity: High humidity. Increase humidity by standing pot on a tray of wet pebbles, or use a room humidifier. Do not mist because this can cause spots to form on leaves.

Temperature: Average room temperatures 65-75°F, 18-24°C

Soil: African violet potting mix works well.

Fertilizer: Feed every 2 weeks spring through fall with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted by half.

Propagation: Take leaf cuttings in spring or summer. Cut a healthy, medium-sized leaf with 1-2 in (2.5-5 cm) stem. Poke stem at a 45° angle in moist half-and-half mixture of peat moss and perlite. Enclose the whole thing in a plastic bag to hold in humidity. Keep the cutting in a warm spot (75-80°/24-27°) in indirect light. Leaf cuttings usually root in about 3-4 weeks, but it takes about another 4 weeks for plantlets to form. Pot up each plantlet when it has 3 leaves, and cut away the parent leaf.

Care Tips:
Provide a humid environment for the Rex begonia. To increase the humidity around the Rex begonia, fill a tray with pebbles and set the planting container on top of the pebbles. Add water to the tray of pebbles, but don't allow it to touch the bottom of the planting container.

Place the Rex begonia in an area with plenty of air circulation. Use a good-quality African violet potting mixture, and a container with good drainage holes in the bottom. Keep the plant clean. Pinch off any dead or yellowing leaves, and don't let debris gather on the surface of the container.

Water the Rex begonia whenever the top of the soil feels slightly dry to the touch. Water until the soil is moist, but don't water excessively, as Rex begonia is susceptible to rot if the soil is too wet. Water on the leaves will cause spots, so don't mist Rex begonia, and don't allow water to splash on the leaves.

Maintain the room temperature at around 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Rex begonias don't do well in cool temperatures, so don't allow nighttime temperatures to fall below 60 degrees Fahrenheit.

Feed the Rex begonia every other week, using a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer that has been diluted to half strength. Withhold fertilizer during the winter.

Ipod Photo A Day: Day 330- Cheesy goodness

2011-12-25T16:52:00.001-06:00

Tis' the season for all sorts of indulgences

Merry Christmas all!!!

2011-12-25T09:46:00.000-06:00

Right now we're on our way back from Roatan but I just wanted to wish you all a very Merry Christmas! I'll be posting all about our trip soon!

Ipod Photo A Day: Day 329- I'm in the spirit alright

2011-12-24T16:50:00.001-06:00

Ipod Photo A Day: Day 328- White is white

2011-12-23T16:48:00.001-06:00

A little more Christmas fun. I got some new white pots for my plants. I think it makes it even more festive and chic. Nothing the a good thrift store find to help a girl out!

Honeymoon Redo: Berge

2011-12-23T08:00:00.002-06:00

Doesn't this place look amazing?! I want to go right now! Although a lot of the photos are in the winter, and well, I don't like winter, I still want to go. It looks so relaxing! And I think that's the point.

I'd totally go back to Germany for this!

Ipod Photo A Day: Day 327- It's better together

2011-12-22T16:45:00.000-06:00

My takings from the annual baking swap I participate in. There was 18 of us this year, so needless to say I have a lot of goodies!

Ipod Photo A Day: Day 326- Could it get better?

2011-12-21T16:44:00.001-06:00

Thrift House: The Dishes

2011-12-21T08:00:00.000-06:00

Cost: Cheap!

I thought I would just take a picture of the whole cupboard. I bought thrift or got as gift everything on these shelves. It makes me feel good knowing that I paid so much less for all of it. Maybe a total of $30 when new it would have been around $200-$300.

Ipod Photo A Day: Day 325- Nothing but intensitiy

2011-12-20T16:42:00.001-06:00

Ipod Photo A Day: Day 324- Tis' the season

2011-12-19T16:41:00.000-06:00

Shadow Art

2011-12-19T08:00:00.000-06:00

Aren't these wonderful? There are 21 example where I found this wonderful art! Check out the rest here! It just goes to show how everything is something!