Cottage Making Mommy: 2011

Home cleaning house , mice , mouse

Wednesday, December 28, 2011 / No comments

The Exterminator

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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">You know you've found a great man when he agrees to drive across town to set mouse traps in your garage late at night!</span><br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">That's right!</span><br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">I've been busting my chops getting the house clean and organized so you can see it but laundry is a big part of getting that done and I can't because there's a mouse in the garage.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">That's where we keep them, the washer and dryer that is.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">Darn mice, it gets cold outside and in they come through the cracks of the garage door.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">EEEWWWWWWW GR GR OSSSSSSS!</span><br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">Being the animal lover that I am I can't  imagine having to kill these things but on the other hand I haven't been able to do laundry in a week because of those darn mice.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">Laundry must get done to finish up the house.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">Decorations must return to the garage to finish up the house.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">Valerie must not faint from seeing a mouse to finish up the house.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">See where I'm going with this?</span><br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">I'm keeping my promise though and the cottage will be seen this next week. Come one come all but no mice allowed.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">See you soon!</span><br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">XOXOXOXO,</span><br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">Valerie</span><br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">P.S. I'll tell you more about the new man soon. He's pretty darn cute and as kind as ever.</span></div>

The Exterminator

You know you've found a great man when he agrees to drive across town to set mouse traps in your garage late at night! That's rig...

Home Merry Christmas

Saturday, December 24, 2011 / No comments

Merry Christmas

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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">Just popping in to say I wish you all the very Merriest Christmas. I didn't get anything done this holiday season but that's OK. Like I've said before BIG changes are coming.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">I've decided to blog my way.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">If anything this year I've been juggling and learning that things can't always be the same.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">You are going to see lots of decorating projects and fabulous make-ahead recipes in the upcoming months.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">2012 is going to be awesome.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">So go snuggle and cuddle and cook and love on your families and friends and come back and see me in 2012.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">Lots of hugs and blessings to you.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">Remember in 2012, LIVE BIG, LOVE BIG, AND DO BIG !!!!</span><br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">XOXOXO,</span><br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">Valerie</span></div>

Merry Christmas

Just popping in to say I wish you all the very Merriest Christmas. I didn't get anything done this holiday season but that's OK. ...

Home sick

Friday, December 23, 2011 / No comments

Sick Again

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jthfGHcn8es/TbrwO_3D3yI/AAAAAAAACes/udzrKM_QyIw/s320/sick_girl.jpg" /><br />
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<span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Blah, Blah, Blah, Cough, Cough, Cough, Wheeze, Wheeze, Wheeze. For the last few weeks I've had this tightening in my chest and throat. Excessive headaches and haven't been able to breathe through my nose. All I do is work, come home , let out dogs, and watch out for a sick mom and grandma. All that workin and caretakin has made me one sick doggie mom and just in time for Christmas.</span><br />
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<span style="color: red; font-size: large;">No shopping has been done, no presents have been wrapped, no cooking has been done, the decorations aren't complete and I'm still at work today and tomorrow.</span><br />
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<span style="color: red; font-size: large;">This chick is one tired lady and wants nothing more than to slip on some warm fuzzy socks, fuzzy pajama pants, and a warm sweater and crawl in my bed and stay there until I'm much better.</span><br />
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<span style="color: red; font-size: large;">What a great weekend for this and it's not like my mom or grandma can take care of me.</span><br />
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<span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Big changes are coming in 2012 aka better prepartions for sickness, better hours at work, and more multi holiday decorations.</span><br />
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<span style="color: red; font-size: large;">So I still have an hour and a half of work to go and then I'm feeding the munchkins and hitting the hay.</span><br />
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<span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Maybe I'll catch up next weekend. I'll stop in tomorrow to wish you a Merry Christmas.</span><br />
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<span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Stay Well and Bundle Up.</span><br />
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<span style="color: red; font-size: large;">XOXOXO,</span><br />
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<span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Valerie</span></div>

Sick Again

Blah, Blah, Blah, Cough, Cough, Cough, Wheeze, Wheeze, Wheeze. For the last few weeks I've had this tightening in my chest and throat...

Turkey Brine

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<span style="color: red; font-size: large;">So it's almost Christmas and many of you are cooking a turkey again. Now for me and my family we like to mix it up a bit. If you aren't soakin your turkey in brine your aren't livin, period.</span></div>
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<span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Now most turkey brine recipes ingredients cost a fortune.</span></div>
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<span style="color: red; font-size: large;">A few years ago on recommendation from a friend of my mom's, we took a trip to Williams Sonoma and bought their turkey brine.  Scrumpscious, delicious, never knew a turkey could taste that good are all thoughts that have come to mind when eating this.</span></div>
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<span style="color: red; font-size: large;">For $18.50 it soaks two turkeys. You can't beat that! Cha-Ching!!!</span></div>
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<span style="color: red; font-size: large;">I'm saving my 2nd half for Easter!</span></div>
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<span style="color: red; font-size: large;">It's really quite simple how this works. Boil the ingredients in some apple juice and water pour it over your turkey that's sitting in a mega-sized bowl, add more water, and cover.</span></div>
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<span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Stick it in your fridge for at least three days... for Mega flavor and voila the best turkey ever for minimal effort.</span><br />
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<span style="color: red; font-size: large;">They also have it on sale after Christmas.... hint... hint!</span><br />
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<span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Happy Cooking,</span><br />
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<span style="color: red; font-size: large;">The Cute Couponer</span><br />
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<span style="color: red;">Linking to <a href="http://www.tidymom.net/"><span style="color: red;">Tidy Mom</span></a>, <a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_2099641610"><span style="color: red;">French Country Cottage</span></a> <a href="http://www.shabbynest.blogspot.com/"><span style="color: red;">Shabby Nest</span></a> <a href="http://www.chiconashoestringdecorating.blogspot.com/"><span style="color: red;">Chic On A Shoestring</span></a></span><br />
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Turkey Brine

So it's almost Christmas and many of you are cooking a turkey again. Now for me and my family we like to mix it up a bit. If you a...

The best of Shabby Chic

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-480FjCtJ4JE/Tsh1Y3rZz2I/AAAAAAAAC8Q/PfAIbkfEt1E/s1600/curtai.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_uid_sr3wlq="19" height="400px" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-480FjCtJ4JE/Tsh1Y3rZz2I/AAAAAAAAC8Q/PfAIbkfEt1E/s400/curtai.jpg" width="300px" /></a><br />
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<span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Isn't this the prettiest shower curtain ever. I think after my move I might try to make one just  like it. Then I may go in the bathroom and choose to never leave and just chill in there.</span><br />
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<span style="color: red; font-size: large;">I love it!</span><br />
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<span style="color: red; font-size: large;">P.S. I found a picture of it on the net and no links on where to buy it. I've googled ruffled shower curtains to no avail. If anyone knows where I might be able to buy one or knows a seamstress who would be great at making one, please let me know.</span><br />
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<span style="color: red;">Linking to : </span><a href="http://www.tidymom.net/"><span style="color: red;">Tidy Mom</span></a><span style="color: red;"> </span><a href="http://www.shabbynest.blogspot.com/"><span style="color: red;">Shabby Nest</span></a><span style="color: red;"> </span><a href="http://www.chiconashoestringdecorating.blogspot.com/"><span style="color: red;">Chic On A Shoestring</span></a><span style="color: red;"> </span><a href="http://www.frenchcountrycottage.blogspot.com/"><span style="color: red;">French Country Cottage</span></a></div>

The best of Shabby Chic

Isn't this the prettiest shower curtain ever. I think after my move I might try to make one just like it. Then I may go in the bathro...

Home christmas , Last Minute Christmas

Thursday, December 22, 2011 / No comments

Last Minute Christmas

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<span style="color: red; font-size: large;">This is my life this week plugging away at work, sipping on a hot drink trying to get rid of my cold and sinus infection and staring at the yucky weather outside.</span><br />
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<span style="color: red; font-size: large;">I see big changes coming this next year so we have more family time and prepartion time for the holidays like in years past.</span><br />
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<span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Christmas may be last minute in my house but I'm determined to make it beautiful.</span><br />
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<span style="color: red; font-size: large;">To check out some killer last minute holiday ideas go </span><a href="http://www.thecutecouponer.blogspot.com/"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">here.</span></a><br />
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<span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Happy Holidays!</span><br />
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<span style="color: red; font-size: large;">XOXOXO,</span><br />
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<span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Valerie</span></div>

Last Minute Christmas

This is my life this week plugging away at work, sipping on a hot drink trying to get rid of my cold and sinus infection and staring at th...

Home

Saturday, December 17, 2011 / No comments

What's Going on at the Cottage Now

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.glitter-graphics.com/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="160px" src="http://dl4.glitter-graphics.net/pub/585/585704vohzfiasuy.gif" width="280px" /></a>     </div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Happy December 17th. Where is December going? I haven't gotten a thing done.</span></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">This year has been a trying year with a new job. Not having two days off in a row is taking it's toll on me, the family, and the holidays. </span></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">I can't get near done what I normally do just due to my schedule and sheer exhaustion.</span></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Here Christmas is next weekend and I still haven't finished decorating, buying gifts, or cooked a single Christmas goodie.</span></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">I'm not liking this!</span></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">So the plan is this weekend to break out the last of the Christmas decor, clean house, and make many goodies.</span></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">This next week I'm going to finish up the shopping and call it a day.</span></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Not the Christmas or holiday season I was hoping for but hey sometimes simple is better.</span></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Makes you appreciate the great years.</span></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">I do have a few projects I'm wrapping up just need to get some pic.'s for ya.</span></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">I hope you are all doing well.</span></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">I'm thinking I'm going to focus on projects that can be used for multiple holidays so I get more use out of them and don't have to redecorate as often.</span></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Don't get me wrong I still like the changes but my lifestyle doesn't seem to be keeping up to my ole way of doing things so I will adapt to something new.</span></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Happy Preparing for the holidays!!!</span></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">XOXOXO,</span></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Valerie</span></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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What's Going on at the Cottage Now

Happy December 17th. Where is December going? I haven't gotten a thing done. This year has been a trying year with a new job. N...

Home do it yourself , laundry , organization , organizing , storage

Saturday, December 10, 2011 / 2 Comments

Organize It

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><a class="imagefield imagefield-lightbox2 imagefield-lightbox2-Full imagefield-field_finishedphoto imagecache imagecache-field_finishedphoto imagecache-Full imagecache-field_finishedphoto-Full lightbox-processed" href="http://ana-white.com/sites/default/files/laundry-basket-dresser-2.jpg" jquery1323529283768="12" rel="lightbox[530][Laundry Basket Dresser<br /><br /><a href="http://ana-white.com/sites/default/files/laundry-basket-dresser-2.jpg" target="_blank" id="lightbox2-download-link-text">Download Original</a>]"><img alt="Laundry Basket Dresser" height="349px" src="http://ana-white.com/sites/default/files/imagecache/Full/laundry-basket-dresser-2.jpg" title="" width="450px" /></a><br />
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<span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Now I don't know how many of you haven't heard about Ana-White but I absolutely love her site. She offers alot of affordable do it yourself projects.</span><br />
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<span style="color: red; font-size: large;">In other words, affordable solutions to household issues.</span><br />
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<span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Now you've heard me talk about my Mt. Neverest ( the laundry pile) before. </span><br />
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<span style="color: red; font-size: large;">It seems I have mountains of laundry everywhere. With my clothes, dog towels, kids clothes, and household towels there isn't enough space to put it all in the cottage.</span><br />
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<span style="color: red; font-size: large;">I found this clever little gadget on her site and it would fill a serious need for me.</span><br />
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<img src="http://ana-white.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/laundry-basket-dresser-8.jpg" /><br />
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<span style="color: red; font-size: large;">You can also stack it vertical and put wheels on it so it's portable. How freakin cool is that. My laundry on wheels. </span><br />
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<span style="color: red; font-size: large;">I've also considered doing two side by side and vertically.</span><br />
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<span style="color: red; font-size: large;">It would permanetly solve my issues with laundry. </span><br />
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<span style="color: red; font-size: large;">I might be a wee bit ambitious but hey, I'm tired of excessive amounts of laundry.</span><br />
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<span style="color: red; font-size: large;">If you wanna see the tutorial go </span><a href="http://ana-white.com/2010/11/laundry-basket-dresser"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">here</span></a><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">.</span><br />
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<span style="color: red; font-size: large;">I'm debating if I have time before the holidays.</span><br />
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<span style="color: red; font-size: large;">If not certainly come Jan. 1st.</span><br />
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<span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Next up I have to find a way to store lots of dog food. These little plastic storage things aren't near big enough for what I have. </span><br />
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<span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Next to putting it in a trash can or popcorn tin  I haven't  quite  figured  it  out.</span><br />
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<span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Any suggestions would be welcomed.</span><br />
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<span style="color: red; font-size: large;">In the meantime I have to clean house so I can finish decorating this weekend. I'm thinking of using more of my decor that can stay up through Winter, like snowmen.</span><br />
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<span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Happy Weekend!</span><br />
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<span style="color: red; font-size: large;">XOXOXO,</span><br />
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<span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Valerie</span><br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000;">Linking to </span><br />
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<a href="http://www.tatertotsandjello.com/"><span style="color: red;">Weekend Wrap Up Party</span></a> <span style="color: red;"><a href="http://funkyjunkinteriors.blogspot.com/"> <span style="color: red;">Funky Junk Interiors</span></a> <a href="http://www.bedifferentactnormal.com/2011/12/show-and-tell-saturday-121011.html"><span style="color: red;">Show and Tell Saturdays</span></a> <a href="http://maleviksrosentradgard.blogspot.com/"><span style="color: red;">The Rosegarden</span></a></span></div>

Organize It

Now I don't know how many of you haven't heard about Ana-White but I absolutely love her site. She offers alot of affordable do it...

Home creative ideas , organization

Thursday, December 8, 2011 / No comments

It's Showtime

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_C5jFqAR1wt0/S5bJ7vUbSVI/AAAAAAAAAPQ/TtCkzFbhkfc/s1600-h/Scan17_0017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_uid_877ib1="37" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_C5jFqAR1wt0/S5bJ7vUbSVI/AAAAAAAAAPQ/TtCkzFbhkfc/s320/Scan17_0017.jpg" /></a><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">So I've been thinking alot the last few days about why my little cottage isn't complete. Is it that the landlord needs to replace several things? Do I not want to finish it because I'm moving soon? Am I too tired? Is it because I don't have enough storage?</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">The answer is simple..... I don't have enough storage. I have piles everywhere!!!  I do mean everywhere. It's hard to make things pretty and complete projects when you have stuff absolutely everywhere. Now how am I going to fix this problem so I can enjoy my home vs. feel exhausted and overwhelmed at times? I've been thinking about the concept of </span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">S - sort</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">P - pitch</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">A - assign</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">C - contain</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">E - eliminate</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">This idea in organization has been around for years. I  have no idea who came up with it but whoever you are... you are brilliant!!!!!!!</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">I have many useful pieces of furniture in the garage that are either not being used because they need to be painted or they don't fit in  the house.</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">What I never considered  was using them while they are in the garage. Extra clothes can still go in the dresser while in the garage.</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">My baker's rack can function as a laundry room holding all my soap and goodies. </span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">I had to really think outside of the box. Use it or lose it.... my brain and all this great furniture... that is.</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">So that's what I'm starting to do. It clears the piles to finish the decorating and projects to ultimately enjoy the house...t</span><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">hen I get to show it off .... and  it is about time now.</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Happy Organizing,</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Valerie</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: red; font-size: large;">P.S. The landlord does need to put new flooring in all the rooms, replace the bathtub, put on new countertops and many other little things but he's not gonna do it.</span></div></div>

It's Showtime

So I've been thinking alot the last few days about why my little cottage isn't complete. Is it that the landlord needs to replace se...

Home Christmas Cuddling , Christmas Decorations , christms decor

Tuesday, December 6, 2011 / No comments

The Case of the Little Missing Christmas Tree

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QfwfTKSrQnk/Tt5XUBA__mI/AAAAAAAABJQ/CWnJELlY9YU/s1600/DSCN0698.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QfwfTKSrQnk/Tt5XUBA__mI/AAAAAAAABJQ/CWnJELlY9YU/s320/DSCN0698.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div style="color: #cc0000;"><span style="font-size: large;">At the end of every season I buy a bunch of decorations and put them away for the following year. It makes for an insane amount of decorations but I love it!  Anywhooo............ I've saved this Christmas tree from way back at my gift shop and I can't find the silly thing anywhere.</span></div><div style="color: #cc0000;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div style="color: #cc0000;"><span style="font-size: large;">Where oh where have you gone little tree? I need to find you! </span></div><div style="color: #cc0000;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div style="color: #cc0000;"><span style="font-size: large;">I've looked high and low and you don't seem to be anywhere.</span></div><div style="color: #cc0000;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div style="color: #cc0000;"><span style="font-size: large;">Silly Christmas tree.</span></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zBO2L2ugJCc/Tt5dETb9XyI/AAAAAAAABJY/9XD-33uJNlE/s1600/DSCN0642.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zBO2L2ugJCc/Tt5dETb9XyI/AAAAAAAABJY/9XD-33uJNlE/s320/DSCN0642.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div style="color: #cc0000;"><span style="font-size: large;">So now that I'm tired of looking for the tree I've decided this is similar to what I want to do with the outside of my mom's door. This photo was taken outside one of my favorite gift shops here in town. I love the tulle wrapped around the lights with grapevine and greenery. The rest is a little blah now but she is spiffing it up in a jiffy.</span></div><div style="color: #cc0000;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div style="color: #cc0000;"><span style="font-size: large;">Back to Work.</span></div><div style="color: #cc0000;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #cc0000;"><span style="font-size: large;">XOXOXO,</span></div><div style="color: #cc0000;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div style="color: #cc0000;"><span style="font-size: large;"> Valerie</span></div></div>

The Case of the Little Missing Christmas Tree

At the end of every season I buy a bunch of decorations and put them away for the following year. It makes for an insane amount of decorati...

Home cabin , christmas , daydreaming , dream cottage , dreams , vacation homes

Friday, December 2, 2011 / 26 Comments

A Dream Christmas Cabin

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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2YcHH9npDgU/VIUfgNBi9yI/AAAAAAAAEjs/54VT-zIDAJQ/s1600/My%2BDream%2BChristmas%2BCabin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2YcHH9npDgU/VIUfgNBi9yI/AAAAAAAAEjs/54VT-zIDAJQ/s1600/My%2BDream%2BChristmas%2BCabin.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Q9axVsgYD90/TtQ4Zro_6MI/AAAAAAAABFc/1PUyrjLGljo/s1600/christmas+cabin.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" dda="true" height="320px" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Q9axVsgYD90/TtQ4Zro_6MI/AAAAAAAABFc/1PUyrjLGljo/s320/christmas+cabin.bmp" width="211px" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">If I were to have the perfect Christmas cabin this is what it would be. Small... this would be the front....</span><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6iTj71XofOE/TtQ4okrkzmI/AAAAAAAABFk/33l79htp970/s1600/pink+door.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" dda="true" height="320px" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6iTj71XofOE/TtQ4okrkzmI/AAAAAAAABFk/33l79htp970/s320/pink+door.jpg" width="240px" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">This would be the front door but I think I would paint it red.</span><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cbVszLOjmDQ/TtQ42e7PXrI/AAAAAAAABFs/W6ufEMDg0ng/s1600/SuperStock_803-962A.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" dda="true" height="213px" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cbVszLOjmDQ/TtQ42e7PXrI/AAAAAAAABFs/W6ufEMDg0ng/s320/SuperStock_803-962A.jpg" width="320px" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">This would be the view from the back.</span><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--a8WlQZYbRw/TtQ5YE8lWBI/AAAAAAAABF0/mtcNdjdcdso/s1600/tumblr_ktxkm42p4I1qapxs2o1_500_thumb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" dda="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--a8WlQZYbRw/TtQ5YE8lWBI/AAAAAAAABF0/mtcNdjdcdso/s1600/tumblr_ktxkm42p4I1qapxs2o1_500_thumb.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">This is the perfect back porch with rockers to look out at the evergreens.</span><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-q_SLjjcn-lM/TtQ5li_h4zI/AAAAAAAABF8/YkBc-drX-bg/s1600/xmas+porch+mysweetheartmoments[1].jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" dda="true" height="320px" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-q_SLjjcn-lM/TtQ5li_h4zI/AAAAAAAABF8/YkBc-drX-bg/s320/xmas+porch+mysweetheartmoments%255B1%255D.jpg" width="320px" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">Every log cabin needs a side door and this would be mine.</span><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-P79MEhSioTM/TtQ52ORvZLI/AAAAAAAABGE/WkN6jt7033M/s1600/1-Decorative-full-candle-christmas-light-effect.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" dda="true" height="320px" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-P79MEhSioTM/TtQ52ORvZLI/AAAAAAAABGE/WkN6jt7033M/s320/1-Decorative-full-candle-christmas-light-effect.jpg" width="240px" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">Now I don't want many stairs in my cabin at all, think simple, so just a few stairs down into the living room that look like this. Perfectly simple.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">Don't you love daydreaming around Christmas time?</span><br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">Happy Holidays,</span><br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">Valerie</span><br />
<span style="color: #cc0000;">Linking to</span>     <a href="http://www.fingerprintsonthefridge.com/"><span style="color: #cc0000;">Feature Yourself Friday</span></a> <a href="http://laurieannas.blogspot.com/"><span style="color: #cc0000;">Farmhouse Friday</span></a> <span style="color: #cc0000;"> </span><a href="http://frenchcountrycottage.blogspot.com/"><span style="color: #cc0000;">Feathered Nest Friday</span></a> <a href="http://www.tatertotsandjello.com/"><span style="color: #cc0000;">Weekend Wrap Up Party</span></a><span style="color: #cc0000;">    <a href="http://howsweetthesound.typepad.com/"><span style="color: #cc0000;">Pink Saturday</span></a>   <a href="http://thecharmofhome.blogspot.com/"><span style="color: #cc0000;">Charm of Home</span></a><span style="color: #cc0000;">   <span style="color: #cc0000;"> </span><a href="http://keepingthechristmasspiritalive365.blogspot.com/2011/12/12-days-of-christmas-traditionscandy.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed:%20keepingTheChristmasSpiritAlive365%20(*Keeping%20the%20Christmas%20Spirit%20Alive,%20365*)"><span style="color: #cc0000;">Keeping the Spirit Alive</span></a>  <a href="http://twenty-eight-0-five.blogspot.com/"><span style="color: #cc0000;">Potpourri Party</span></a>  <a href="http://www.atthepicketfence.com/"><span style="color: #cc0000;">Inspiration Friday</span></a></span></span><span style="color: #cc0000;">  <a href="http://www.stuff-and-nonsense.net/"><span style="color: #cc0000;">Fridays Unfolded</span></a>  <a href="http://commonground-debrasvintagedesigns.blogspot.com/"><span style="color: #cc0000;">Vintage Inspiration </span></a></span><span style="color: #cc0000;">  <a href="http://www.thevintagefarmhouse.com/"><span style="color: #cc0000;">The Vintage Farmhouse</span></a></span><span style="color: #cc0000;">  <span style="color: #cc0000;"> </span><a href="http://thecorsoncottage.blogspot.com/"><span style="color: #cc0000;">Home For the Holidays</span></a>        <a href="http://www.betweennapsontheporch.net/">Met Monday</a> <a href="http://lovingmyheartandhome.blogspot.com/2014/12/whoa-its-december-time-for-simple.html">Simple Saturdays</a> <a href="http://howsweetthesound.typepad.com/">Pink Saturday</a> <a href="http://sandimyyellowdoor.blogspot.com/">No Place Like Home</a></span><br />
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</span></div>

A Dream Christmas Cabin

If I were to have the perfect Christmas cabin this is what it would be. Small... this would be the front.... This w...

Home christmas , christmas decorating , Christmas Decorations , cottage christmas decor

Thursday, December 1, 2011 / No comments

Sneak Peek of My Cottage

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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #cc0000;">I'm just now getting started at my house.</span></span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2ym-CZliipw/TtVaeb7eN2I/AAAAAAAABHs/a9BkFPe1I-g/s1600/DSCN0600.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240px" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2ym-CZliipw/TtVaeb7eN2I/AAAAAAAABHs/a9BkFPe1I-g/s320/DSCN0600.JPG" width="320px" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #cc0000;">Any type of wooden or tin painted sign definitely belongs at my house especially if it has red in it.               </span></span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-II6q_mz1dV4/TtVa8e--reI/AAAAAAAABH0/wdvFZ3kyfqM/s1600/DSCN0599.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240px" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-II6q_mz1dV4/TtVa8e--reI/AAAAAAAABH0/wdvFZ3kyfqM/s320/DSCN0599.JPG" width="320px" /></a></div>                                          <br />
<div style="color: #cc0000;"><span style="font-size: large;">Now I'm starting a hot mug of Spiced Apple Cider and getting at it.</span></div><div style="color: #cc0000;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div style="color: #cc0000;"><span style="font-size: large;">Happy Decorating.</span></div><div style="color: #cc0000;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div style="color: #cc0000;"><span style="font-size: large;">Check back soon.</span></div><div style="color: #cc0000;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div style="color: #cc0000;"><span style="font-size: large;">XOXOXO,</span></div><div style="color: #cc0000;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #cc0000;">Valerie</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">Linking to</span><br />
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<a href="http://laurieannas.blogspot.com/">Farmhouse Friday</a></div>

Sneak Peek of My Cottage

I'm just now getting started at my house. Any type of wooden or tin painted sign definitely belongs at my house especially if it has...

Home christmas , Christmas Decorations

Tuesday, November 29, 2011 / 1 Comment

Sneak Peek of Christmas Decor at Mom's

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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #cc0000;">I enjoy that I have multiple places to decorate each year for Christmas. I'm just getting started. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #cc0000;">I still have Mr. Snowman and the walkway lights to add. I keep forgetting to get the pillar lights plugged in. </span></span>               <br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7oqYcO-HiPk/TtVPuugQlhI/AAAAAAAABHU/4UntqWNsMzo/s1600/DSCN0756.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7oqYcO-HiPk/TtVPuugQlhI/AAAAAAAABHU/4UntqWNsMzo/s320/DSCN0756.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I think the wreath is getting a bow makeover this year. I really need to take picture lessons so I can hide the cord. Wink!!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #cc0000;">Garland is necessary everywhere. Don't Ya Think!!!        </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #cc0000;">Alrighty back to cooking and decorating.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #cc0000;">   </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">XOXOXO,</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Valerie</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #cc0000;">Linking to </span></span><a href="http://www.betweennapsontheporch.blogspot.com/"><span style="color: #cc0000;">Between Naps on the Porch </span></a><br />
<a href="http://adiamondinthestuff.blogspot.com/"><span style="color: #cc0000;">Time to Shine </span></a><br />
<a href="http://typeadecorating.blogspot.com/" style="color: #cc0000;">Anything Goes</a><br />
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<a href="http://www.vwbblog.com/">Vintage Wanna Bee</a> </div>
<a href="http://savvysouthernstyle.blogspot.com/">Wow Us Wednesday</a><br />
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Sneak Peek of Christmas Decor at Mom's

I enjoy that I have multiple places to decorate each year for Christmas. I'm just getting started. I still have Mr. Snowma...

Finally Getting to Thanksgiving

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<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">It's Finally Thanksgiving for our family.</span><br />
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<div style="color: #b45f06;"><span style="font-size: large;">I'm spending the day making all the yummy fixins. Grandma and mom aren't feeling much better so I'm bringing Thanksgiving to them and a few Christmas decorations to decorate Grandma's new home. She's not to happy about assisted living so I'm going to make it feel more homey. </span></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-B8Iink1DfWA/TtUhYhJby4I/AAAAAAAABGU/xiHGNJ3wv1A/s1600/Picture+019.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-B8Iink1DfWA/TtUhYhJby4I/AAAAAAAABGU/xiHGNJ3wv1A/s320/Picture+019.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div style="color: #b45f06;"><span style="font-size: large;">The fixins include Grandma's Traditional Stuffing and her homemade Giblet Gravy.</span></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-memN75k9yvI/TtUiMGSfX9I/AAAAAAAABGc/NqmZ8Yykv68/s1600/Picture+020.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-memN75k9yvI/TtUiMGSfX9I/AAAAAAAABGc/NqmZ8Yykv68/s320/Picture+020.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div style="color: #b45f06;"><span style="font-size: large;">This is the first year I haven't had her help. She asked me if I thought I could do it and I winked at her and said I've had lots of practice. </span></div><div style="color: #b45f06;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div style="color: #b45f06;"><span style="font-size: large;">The benefit of being the baby of the grandkids and having an 89 year old Grandma is that  you get  to spend  lots  of time with  them.</span></div><div style="color: #b45f06;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div style="color: #b45f06;"><span style="font-size: large;">So I'm going back to cooking and you all have a fabulous day!!!</span></div><div style="color: #b45f06;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #b45f06;"><span style="font-size: large;">XOXOXO,</span></div><div style="color: #b45f06;"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div><div style="color: #b45f06;"><span style="font-size: large;">Valerie</span></div><div style="color: #b45f06;"><br />
P.S. Most of you would like to know I put together my Thanksgiving feast for under  $30.00. Feel free to check out my adventures in couponing <a href="http://thecutecouponer.blogspot.com/">here.</a></div><div style="color: #b45f06;"><br />
</div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #b45f06;">Linking to </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><a href="http://time-warp-wife.blogspot.com/2011/11/leaving-your-parents-this-christmas.html">Time Warp Wife</a> <a href="http://www.betweennapsontheporch.blogspot.com/">Between Naps on the Porch</a> <a href="http://linda-coastalcharm.blogspot.com/">Coastal Charm</a> </span></span></div>

Finally Getting to Thanksgiving

It's Finally Thanksgiving for our family. I'm spending the day making all the yummy fixins. Grandma and mom aren't feeling m...

Home christmas , christmas decor , christmas decorating , Christmas Decorations , holiday decor , holiday decorating , holidays

Saturday, November 26, 2011 / 24 Comments

Funny Christmas Decorations for Your Car

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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ASMHRvS-Jgc/TtEl5jlnlBI/AAAAAAAABD8/WI8Zp9-vwD8/s1600/untitled.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hda="true" height="239px" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ASMHRvS-Jgc/TtEl5jlnlBI/AAAAAAAABD8/WI8Zp9-vwD8/s320/untitled.bmp" width="320px" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">You ever have one of those days at work where you are bored out of your mind and stuck there even though your busy and have little down time to play? Well that's me today. While driving in this morning I got to thinking that for years my mom and I have said we are going to decorate our cars for Christmas but we never do it. The real reason we never do it is simple, because we don't know how.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">Now I have no interest in lighting up my car, don't get me wrong I love seeing other people do it, but not on my car. It's kind of like bumper stickers, you like reading other peoples stickers but don't want them on your car.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">Well I decided to get some inspiration so I looked online and this is what I found. I still can't quit  laughing</span>.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bjF_Id45PvI/TtEpv2FN7AI/AAAAAAAABEE/nvmGDDOFFyo/s1600/c3.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hda="true" height="240px" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bjF_Id45PvI/TtEpv2FN7AI/AAAAAAAABEE/nvmGDDOFFyo/s320/c3.bmp" width="320px" /></a></div>
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    <span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;"> Betcha haven't seen this before.</span><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JkPuwOuHEkI/TtEp-FONnfI/AAAAAAAABEM/31P21FA0KHY/s1600/c2.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hda="true" height="240px" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JkPuwOuHEkI/TtEp-FONnfI/AAAAAAAABEM/31P21FA0KHY/s320/c2.bmp" width="320px" /></a></div>
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 <span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">How does that thing not fall off?</span><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yQmxuW1WpNk/TtEsJA20JCI/AAAAAAAABEU/FBA7EAOaFzQ/s1600/santa-hit-by-car-www.flickr.com_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hda="true" height="182px" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yQmxuW1WpNk/TtEsJA20JCI/AAAAAAAABEU/FBA7EAOaFzQ/s320/santa-hit-by-car-www.flickr.com_.jpg" width="320px" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">Does this one remind you of "Grandma Got Run Over By a Reindeer?"</span><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-d5Z_pnF1FJs/TtEsbhhd4mI/AAAAAAAABEc/X2iUzy4FAJM/s1600/truck_Christmas-Art_Car.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hda="true" height="215px" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-d5Z_pnF1FJs/TtEsbhhd4mI/AAAAAAAABEc/X2iUzy4FAJM/s320/truck_Christmas-Art_Car.jpg" width="320px" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">If you can't get your hubby to junk his old pick up truck tell him you're going to do this to it.</span><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-N7vwXPsqXlE/TtEs9-lZsII/AAAAAAAABEs/cAHbSRPn0oA/s1600/santas-volkswagen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hda="true" height="240px" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-N7vwXPsqXlE/TtEs9-lZsII/AAAAAAAABEs/cAHbSRPn0oA/s320/santas-volkswagen.jpg" width="320px" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">Can't say I've seen this before... Santa and a slug bug.... Reduce,Re-Use,Recycle.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">Now for a little less trashy and a little more classy.</span><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uPukLUK48BE/TtEtbXroL6I/AAAAAAAABE0/4ouHVDOVI9s/s1600/reindeer-car-300x240.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hda="true" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uPukLUK48BE/TtEtbXroL6I/AAAAAAAABE0/4ouHVDOVI9s/s1600/reindeer-car-300x240.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">I would  do this to my minivan with a wreath in back and some garland on my luggage racks. What do you think too much?</span><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YMrrJYZZL2Y/TtEtqM1DE2I/AAAAAAAABE8/jPP0oRgKrOk/s1600/depositphotos_4103124-Wedding-car-decoration.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hda="true" height="213px" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YMrrJYZZL2Y/TtEtqM1DE2I/AAAAAAAABE8/jPP0oRgKrOk/s320/depositphotos_4103124-Wedding-car-decoration.jpg" width="320px" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">This is simple and understated. It's like a corsage for a door handle</span>.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WajtLxLaQIc/TtEviPHzG8I/AAAAAAAABFE/Nt8Kh2NB8p0/s1600/giant-christmas-bow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hda="true" height="240px" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WajtLxLaQIc/TtEviPHzG8I/AAAAAAAABFE/Nt8Kh2NB8p0/s320/giant-christmas-bow.jpg" width="320px" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">I like this too. Santa feel free to park this sweet baby  in my driveway. (Wink)</span><br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">Now wasn't that fun! It's always interesting to see what people do to decorate everything for Christmas. What really got me going was watching the Christmas movie on Lifetime, "A Christmas Proposal." The Kringles were Christmas CRAZY. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">Hope You Enjoy...</span><br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">XOXOXO,</span><br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">Valerie</span><br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000;">Linking to </span><span style="color: #cc0000;"><br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000;"><a href="http://www.tatertotsandjello.com/">http://www.tatertotsandjello.com/</a> <a href="http://funkyjunkinteriors.blogspot.com/">Funky Junk Interiors</a> <a href="http://www.bedifferentactnormal.com/2011/11/show-and-tell-saturday-112611.html">Be Different Act Normal</a> <a href="http://maleviksrosentradgard.blogspot.com/">Saturday Show Off</a> <a href="http://www.sewmanyways.blogspot.com/">Sew Many Ways</a> <a href="http://www.betweennapsontheporch.net/">Met Monday</a><br />
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Funny Christmas Decorations for Your Car

You ever have one of those days at work where you are bored out of your mind and stuck there even though your busy and have little down...

We Plan, God Laughs

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_C5jFqAR1wt0/TSOs8jnO3HI/AAAAAAAAAmw/sRctLmRxZL4/s1600/DSCN0643.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_uid_pui0f="12" height="240px" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_C5jFqAR1wt0/TSOs8jnO3HI/AAAAAAAAAmw/sRctLmRxZL4/s320/DSCN0643.JPG" width="320px" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="color: #b45f06;">(I took this picture last year for a Christmas Table Design Idea While Boutique Shopping)</span></div><br />
<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">It's a good thing I have a great sense of humor. Thursday I turned on my oven and got nothing. No Heat! The pilot light is out and not a soul can figure out where to light it. The stove is ancient. It works great but it's ancient. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">So thinking I had a little more time to buy I didn't worry about it. Now it's Saturday morning and I'm at work and our big Thanksgiving is on Sunday evening so I popped over to mom's house and she asked me," where we are we going to have Thanksgiving?"  Well right here at your house mom! Lol!!! I'll prep it at mine and cook it at yours. Let's just say I have an eventful evening of driving back and forth to get ready. She told me," I have lots of cleaning to do." I told her, She can clean and I can cook. It only seems fair to me. So the Thanksgiving decorations are coming down tonight and being put up over at mom's. HA HA!!! Darn Fall holidays can't seem to keep the decorations in one place. I  promise if Christmas is anything like this I'm decorating my minivan and we're going mobile eating fast food out of the car with Christmas lights and music!!!</span><br />
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<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">Needless to say I have a full work day ahead of me. For those of you who are off, enjoy, many of us are jealous. I'd much rather be at home trying to light my gas stove and cooking and cleaning!!!</span><br />
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<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">Enjoy Your Weekend!!!</span><br />
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<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">XOXOXO,</span><br />
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<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">Valerie </span></div>

We Plan, God Laughs

(I took this picture last year for a Christmas Table Design Idea While Boutique Shopping) It's a good thing I have a great sense of hu...

Home Christmas Cuddling

Friday, November 25, 2011 / No comments

Dreaming of a Perfect Thanksgiving Weekend

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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iw75StO7uZM/TtAOrk6-yEI/AAAAAAAABDk/285TuI3PRA4/s1600/hot-cocoa-marshmallows-186x186.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hda="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iw75StO7uZM/TtAOrk6-yEI/AAAAAAAABDk/285TuI3PRA4/s1600/hot-cocoa-marshmallows-186x186.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">I'd like nothing more than to plant myself on the couch and make myself  a cup of hot cocoa and some hot chocolate dippers.</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--y3bJwdlqJw/TtAPPogJ79I/AAAAAAAABDs/vDnjt3IlU6U/s1600/chocolatecoveredmarshmellowpeppermintstraws.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hda="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--y3bJwdlqJw/TtAPPogJ79I/AAAAAAAABDs/vDnjt3IlU6U/s1600/chocolatecoveredmarshmellowpeppermintstraws.jpg" /></a></div>                                                               <span id="goog_1202380310"></span><span id="goog_1202380311"></span><br />
<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">I can't though I'm working all weekend. I still have Thanksgiving to prepare, a house to clean, and shopping to be done by Sunday. Then I have to come back to work again on Monday. How'd this happen?</span><br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">The good part is that I got a head start on some Christmas decorating yesterday and am moving all the Thanksgiving decor to the kitchen to get ready for our Thanksgiving feast on Sunday. This year the family is getting a little bit of both, candy canes and pumpkins.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">Not bad, Thanksgiving late and Christmas early.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">These Hot Chocolate Dippers are too cute I can't wait to make them. Thank You "Make Life Delicious" for reminding me of a time honored treat.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">Now for those of you who can, cozy up with your loved ones, furry and human, (although I'm not sure mine know the difference) and enjoy your weekend.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">Hugs.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">XOXOXO,</span><br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">Valerie</span></div>

Dreaming of a Perfect Thanksgiving Weekend

I'd like nothing more than to plant myself on the couch and make myself a cup of hot cocoa and some hot chocolate dippers. ...

Home Happy Thanksgiving

Thursday, November 24, 2011 / No comments

A Special Thanksgiving Blessing

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<div style="color: #b45f06;"><span style="font-size: large;">Special Thanksgiving wishes to you and yours. I'm at mom's today starting decorating for Christmas. This is mom's front door. Isn't the wreath cute?</span></div><div style="color: #b45f06;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div style="color: #b45f06;"><span style="font-size: large;">Both mom and grams had a fall  this past week and were in the hospital so neither are up for Thanksgiving today so homemade Chicken Noodle Soup it is.</span></div><div style="color: #b45f06;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div style="color: #b45f06;"><span style="font-size: large;">We are going to have Thanksgiving on Sunday instead. It will give them a few days to get feeling better.</span></div><div style="color: #b45f06;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div style="color: #b45f06;"><span style="font-size: large;">Hope yours is super special.</span></div><div style="color: #b45f06;"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div><div style="color: #b45f06;"><span style="font-size: large;">XOXOXO,</span></div><div style="color: #b45f06;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #b45f06;">Valerie</span></span></div>

A Special Thanksgiving Blessing

Special Thanksgiving wishes to you and yours. I'm at mom's today starting decorating for Christmas. This is mom's front door. ...

Home thanksgiving

Sunday, November 20, 2011 / No comments

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-98GbMEAN8s0/Tsl74NVWtXI/AAAAAAAABC8/iuYRKYTadFI/s1600/DSCN1248.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-98GbMEAN8s0/Tsl74NVWtXI/AAAAAAAABC8/iuYRKYTadFI/s320/DSCN1248.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div style="color: #b45f06;"><span style="font-size: large;">Spending a Sunday getting ready for a relaxing and enjoyable Thanksgiving.</span></div><div style="color: #b45f06;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div style="color: #b45f06;"><span style="font-size: large;">I'm raking leaves, watering the flowers, and cleaning out the fridge.</span></div><div style="color: #b45f06;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div style="color: #b45f06;"><span style="font-size: large;">This mess is about to be replaced with a yummy feast.</span></div><div style="color: #b45f06;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div style="color: #b45f06;"><span style="font-size: large;">I can hardly wait.</span></div><div style="color: #b45f06;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div style="color: #b45f06;"><span style="font-size: large;">I won't get the final touches on the decorating until Tuesday.</span></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Sf5X36TdnVE/Tsl8KFfwxmI/AAAAAAAABDE/-km0m-6nuf8/s1600/DSCN1193.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Sf5X36TdnVE/Tsl8KFfwxmI/AAAAAAAABDE/-km0m-6nuf8/s320/DSCN1193.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div style="color: #b45f06;"><span style="font-size: large;">How about you? Are you getting ready?</span></div><div style="color: #e69138;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div style="color: #e69138;"><span style="font-size: large;">Enjoy a lovely rest of the weekend.</span></div><div style="color: #e69138;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div style="color: #e69138;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div style="color: #e69138;"><span style="font-size: large;">XOXOXO,</span></div><div style="color: #e69138;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #e69138;">Valerie</span></span></div>

Spending a Sunday getting ready for a relaxing and enjoyable Thanksgiving. I'm raking leaves, watering the flowers, and cleaning out t...

Home Dear Santa , dream cottage

Friday, November 18, 2011 / 6 Comments

My Dream Christmas Cottage

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-imKB4OabBjo/Tsb3k1Bs8FI/AAAAAAAABCM/9BPelGlqGaY/s1600/Pensacola_-Seville-Historic-District_-Chloe-And-Sophies-Attic_11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hda="true" height="226px" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-imKB4OabBjo/Tsb3k1Bs8FI/AAAAAAAABCM/9BPelGlqGaY/s320/Pensacola_-Seville-Historic-District_-Chloe-And-Sophies-Attic_11.jpg" width="320px" /></a></div><span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">Dear Santa,</span><br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">Would you please pick up this cottage for me and set in on an acreage. If we stick a  building behind it and some dog pens you'd make all my dreams come true.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">Hugs and Kisses,</span><br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">Valerie</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">P.S.  How about throwing in one of these?</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ub7OmNeuL7U/Tsb5KvdxuMI/AAAAAAAABCU/2jVWqOw6AJs/s1600/photo-338.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hda="true" height="240px" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ub7OmNeuL7U/Tsb5KvdxuMI/AAAAAAAABCU/2jVWqOw6AJs/s320/photo-338.jpg" width="320px" /></a></div><br />
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<span style="color: red;">Linking to: <a href="http://laurieannas.blogspot.com/">Farmhouse Friday</a> <a href="http://frenchcountrycottage.blogspot.com/">French Country Cottage</a> <a href="http://www.fingerprintsonthefridge.com/">Fingerprints On The Fridge</a> <a href="http://www.bedifferentactnormal.com/2011/11/show-and-tell-saturday-111911.html">Be Different Act Normal</a> <a href="http://www.funkyjunkinteriors.blogspot.com/">Funky Junk Interiors</a>  <a href="http://tatertotsandjello.com/">Tatertots and Jello</a></span><br />
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</div>

My Dream Christmas Cottage

Dear Santa, Would you please pick up this cottage for me and set in on an acreage. If we stick a building behind it and some dog pens yo...

A Good Night's Sleep is All I Need

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Kv2dEl6WeCw/Tsa__1icXbI/AAAAAAAABCE/5rJ0mz3gPdo/s1600/good_night.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hda="true" height="217px" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Kv2dEl6WeCw/Tsa__1icXbI/AAAAAAAABCE/5rJ0mz3gPdo/s320/good_night.jpg" width="320px" /></a></div><br />
<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">Sometimes when we feel down I've realized it's because we're tired. Raising 8 little puppies and taking care of their abandoned mommy and many other rescues the last few months has left me exhausted. Let's  face it I'm getting sick because I just need some sleep. I sipped on a cup of egg nog last night and fell asleep with the munchkins barking and then they continued to bark on and off all night long.  </span><br />
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<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">And bark and bark and bark.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">No wonder I'm in a mood.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">My solution is simple...sleep.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">So I wasted $20 bucks at the vet for these sedation pills  for the older dogs who had surgery and they still kept me up all night. It didn't work!!! Gag...........................</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">Starting Saturday I'm going to try to get in a nap. I'm going to make myself turn off the t.v. and lay down for 2 hours. I've never been a napper but I'm so tired I think I'll try.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">If I work really hard I can finish up most of the cottage before Thanksgiving and you can see it decorated for Fall FINALLY!!!</span><br />
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<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">So here's to me wishing you not only a wonderful adventurous weekend but get some much needed rest before we have to polish our homes and meals.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">Hugs and Kisses</span><br />
<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">XOXOXO,</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">Valerie</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">P.S. Don't you just love these pillowcases. I think I need to make some.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">P.S.S. Thanks to all of you who have left comments. I'm so sorry Blogger hasn't let me respond to them. I have tried everything.</span><br />
<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">If anyone knows how to fix it I'd appreciate it.</span></div>

A Good Night's Sleep is All I Need

Sometimes when we feel down I've realized it's because we're tired. Raising 8 little puppies and taking care of their abandone...

Home

Thursday, November 17, 2011 / No comments

If You Have it Ready They Will Come

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<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WFtJNgPY118/TsWsF1eug6I/AAAAAAAABB0/Ht8SWPCdrFY/s1600/LittleFeet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hda="true" height="228px" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WFtJNgPY118/TsWsF1eug6I/AAAAAAAABB0/Ht8SWPCdrFY/s320/LittleFeet.jpg" width="320px" /></a></div><br />
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<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">My heart has been really heavy the last few days. After 14 months of prayer and a long drawn out approval process, it's official, I'm approved to be a bridge resource parent and adopt. For 14 months I have answered questions filled out forms, refilled out forms, been interviewed, returned phone  calls, gone to classes, asked questions, answered questions, done homework, taken surveys and prayed that God will send me the children he wants me to have.</span><br />
<span style="color: #b45f06;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">I keep praying they will be home by Christmas. What better Christmas present  for me to give the entire family than to make a difference in a child's life. </span><br />
<span style="color: #b45f06;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">Yesterday, I got off the phone with DHS and they told me, "I need to be patient." I'm trying to be patient!</span><br />
<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">My co-workers say I could have met a man, gotten married, gotten pregnant, and given birth by now. You know what? Their right. I'm not saying that's not in the cards for the future but I feel God has led me to this here and now. </span><br />
<span style="color: #b45f06;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">The frustrating part is the waiting. I can't move, can't change jobs, can't make plans until I know when my kids are arriving.</span><br />
<span style="color: #b45f06;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">DHS  has a process and the process includes waiting, waiting, and more waiting. My heart is heavy because I'm still waiting. The holidays are here and their are sweet little children, of all ages, waiting for a mommy to love them. clean clothes,  a warm bed, and for a full belly. I'm here to offer it but I have to wait. Wait for them to take a five day vacation next week, wait for them to assign me my own case worker for placement, and just wait because that's the process. I've waited so long my background check has expired and I have to refill it out again. I have to wait for that in the mail too. Then I have to wait for it to be returned again.</span><br />
<span style="color: #b45f06;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">See my frustration!!!</span><br />
<span style="color: #b45f06;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">Helpless children 3,000 of them an approved home and I just have to wait.</span><br />
<span style="color: #b45f06;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">Suddenly cooking and decorating don't seem as important as something as simple as making sure children are safe physically and emotionally.</span><br />
<span style="color: #b45f06;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">So for now I'm going back to decorating, back to cooking, and more cleaning. Maybe it will make the wait go faster.</span><br />
<span style="color: #b45f06;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">Today I know I'm blessed but I'd like to be the blessing.</span><br />
<span style="color: #b45f06;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">Hugs,</span><br />
<span style="color: #b45f06;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">Valerie</span></div>

If You Have it Ready They Will Come

My heart has been really heavy the last few days. After 14 months of prayer and a long drawn out approval process, it's official, I&...

Home Thanksgiving Menu

Thursday, November 10, 2011 / 10 Comments

Thanksgiving Weekend Menu

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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-P0aHJQkkcyM/Trx52Yqg8ZI/AAAAAAAABBk/r83YQSh_QZU/s1600/thanksgiving_day_graphics.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="276px" nda="true" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-P0aHJQkkcyM/Trx52Yqg8ZI/AAAAAAAABBk/r83YQSh_QZU/s320/thanksgiving_day_graphics.gif" width="320px" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">I can't believe it is almost Thanksgiving and already cold again brrr.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">I have to say I'm looking forward to Thanksgiving. </span><br />
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</span><br />
<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">I thought I would share with you some of my menu plans.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;"><u>Main Course</u>: </span><br />
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<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">                     Stuffed Turkey and Dressing in Brine</span><br />
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                               <span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">Lingonberry Sauce</span><br />
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<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">                    Pork Tenderloin w/ Cranberry Chutney</span><br />
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</span><br />
<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;"><u>Sides:</u>            Mashed Potatoes and Giblet Gravy</span><br />
<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">                      </span><br />
<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">                     Cranberry Sauce</span><br />
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</span><br />
<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">                     Sweet Potato Crunch</span><br />
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<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">                     Sauteed Green Beans</span><br />
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</span><br />
<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">                     Broccoli and Cheddar Casserole</span><br />
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</span><br />
<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;"><u>Bread:</u>          Homemade Sourdough Bread</span><br />
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</span><br />
<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;"><u>Dessert:</u>        Pecan Pie w/ Whipping  Cream</span><br />
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</span><br />
<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">                     Pumkin Chiffon Pie</span><br />
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</span><br />
<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">                     Grandma's Pumpkin Roll</span><br />
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</span><br />
<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;"><u>Beverages:</u>   Apple Cider w/ Aspen Mulling Spices</span><br />
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</span><br />
<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">                     Riunite Lambrusco Wine</span><br />
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</span><br />
<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;"><u>Snacks:</u>        Rollover Pretzels</span><br />
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<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">                    I can already taste it all!</span><br />
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<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">Happy Planning.</span><br />
<span style="color: #b45f06;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="color: #b45f06;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">XOXOXO,</span><br />
<span style="color: #b45f06;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">Valerie</span></div>

Thanksgiving Weekend Menu

I can't believe it is almost Thanksgiving and already cold again brrr. I have to say I'm looking forward to Thanksgiving. ...

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