Day 138: The Trail
This evening while I was outside on the deck with Eric waiting for the BBQer to heat up I turned towards the trail behind our house and noticed the sun shining through the trees. I've never thought of the trail behind our house as being pretty but this particular area has beautiful bright green moss growing on both sides of the trail. It is hard to see the moss the way I processed the image but today I was more interested in how the light looked shining through the trees.
Canon 60D/55-250mm lens
Day 137: The Movie Gang
I know this is a horrible picture but I took it quickly and without thought as I waited in a van full of excited Star Trek teenaged fans. This group gets together on a regular basis to either go to the movie theater or come to our house to watch a movie.
Taken with my iPhone.
Day 136: The Beast!
I have taken to calling this Calla Lily plant "The Beast" because it is the most amazing plant I have in my yard. It was given to me by my mother when we moved into the house in 2003. During the first few years it didn't bloom all that much. But after about year 3 or 4 it started to go crazy and hasn't stopped. To be honest with ya, this is not as big as The Beast gets. I just love how it fills up this ugly space and makes it green and beautiful. Kozmo loves it because he likes to hide underneath is when it is hot out. It also makes for good cover when he is spying on the cat across the street.
Taken with my iPhone.
Day 135: Rock Garden
I spent most of today working on finishing up the garden beds. This one took the longest because it had a lot of stuff to work around and river rocks to move and put back once the mulch was laid down. This is my Rock Garden that is in progress. Last Spring I dug up all my succulents and redesigned this garden. What I want it took eventually look like is a rock garden with tons of succulents and ground cover filling every inch of space. But for now, it is in the still growing out stages and will probably be a work in progress for a few years. I discovered that the ground cover I use in other parts of the yard doesn't really like being in an area that gets lot of sun. This means I need to head out next week and find something that is drought tolerant to replace the stuff that isn't growing well. This garden went from something that I hated to something that I'm really enjoying.
Taken with my iPhone
Day 134: Em & Zoey
Today Em was home from school with a migraine. When the girls are sick they usually curl up on the couch with my "sick blanket" (the blanket that was made for me while I was going through chemo that everyone seems to want to cuddle up with when they aren't feeling well). Our kitty Zoey LOVES Em and decided to spend the afternoon laying on the couch with Em.
Canon 60D/40mm lens
Day 133: Mulch Pile
This is what I got for Mother's Day. No kidding! It really is what I asked for and it happened to have arrived on Mother's Day so that today we were able to spread it on my garden beds. My parents came over bright and early and we got it all spread out before lunch. That was even between two rain storms. I still have one more garden to go but that one I have to do by hand because.
Canon 60D/17-77mm lens
Day 132: One Happy Mama
Today is Mother's Day and a day I LOVE because I get to spend it with my family. I enjoyed being spoiled all day while I was showered with love and time. My love language must be quality time because I would rather spend time with my family than get showered with diamonds or a day at the spa alone.
It has been a blessing to be the mother of these two beautiful young women.
Canon 60D/17-77mm lens
Day 131: Helping Hands
Today we went over to our friend's house to help them clean up after their house remodel. They had purchased a house a few months ago that needed A LOT OF WORK. It is a wonderful home but it really does need work and they are coming down to crunch time with having to move in order to rent their condo and get settled in before baby #3 arrives on July 1st.
Emily and Ariana spent the day helping clean up the big piles and throwing things into the dumpster.
Taken with my iPhone
Day 130: Snail
Katelyn walked in the door after school with this little snail. He was cute but all I could think about was that this cute snail was really a slug with its home on its back. She thought it was fascinating. I made her dump it into Dead Neighbor's yard and prayed it wouldn't come back to mine.
Canon 60D/17-77mm lens
Day 129: Handmade by Dani
Yesterday after work I zipped on over to my BFF's house for a quick chit chat. We don't see each other in person very often so I'll take whatever little time we get.
I was surprised to get this handmade gift from her. I have seen her other handmade gifts and have always wanted one. LUCKY me got one!!!
Thank you Dani!!
Canon 60D/40mm lens
Day 128: Blossom
I can't get enough of Pinky Tree's blossoms. I know the season for it to blossom is short so I'm enjoying it while I can.
Canon 60D/17-77mm lens
Day 127: Autumn Fern
My yard is filled with different kinds of ferns but I love the Autumn ferns the most. They turn a beautiful autumn color in the Fall and have a delicate look to them. This little one is just now starting to make its appearance.
Canon 60D/17-77mm lens
Day 126: Pinky Tree's blossoms
Today I noticed that Pinky Tree was in full bloom. Unfortunately, they are already starting to fall to the ground.
Canon 60D/17-77mm lens
Day 125: My Little Helper
Today after church I decided to get out into the yard and plant some more Hosta plants my mother got for me. It meant that I had to expand the new side garden. After getting them planted I realized that my miniature fern looked like it was dead. The reason: I planted in the sunniest and hottest part of the yard. OOPS! I wasn't thinking about it when I planted it right before Spring. I moved it to the new garden and watered it nice and good in hopes to revive it.
I also know that I take way too many pictures of Kozmo. I can't help it because he is just too cute. He was helping me and wandered around the yard with me while I worked.
Taken with my iPhone
Day 124: Turtles
This afternoon Emily and I went on a photo walk to her favorite place - Flower World. She loves this nursery because it has animals and beautiful flowers in season. We were there a little too early for the flowers but that didn't matter because the turtles are always in their pond in any season. Here is a picture of Emily taking pictures of one of her favorite animals.
Canon 60D/55-250mm lens
Day 123: Sunshine!
This picture reminds me of how the weather has been this week . . . full of sunshine!
Canon 60D/17-77mm lens
Day 122: Cleaned Up
This is a picture of my neighbor's yard. Normally, you can't see the ground because the backyard resembled a jungle.
I KID YOU NOT!
Today his friends came over and they cleared out the yard and cleaned it up. I don't think it'll ever be landscaped but I and the rest of the neighborhood are forever grateful for their help in getting this house to stop looking like it has been abandoned. For now I don't have to fight his jungle to make sure it doesn't grow into my yard.
Taken with my iPhone
Day 121: Got a Cold?
I found this at my client's house while I was dusting. It made me laugh.
Taken with my iPhone
Day 120: Rotten Cat!
This is our other cat Zoey and this is a place she knows not to lay on. Unfortunately, she may know it but I see when we are gone she doesn't obey it.
Taken with my iPhone
Day 119: 1st Place
This evening the family and I headed out to the 15th Annual Middle School Art Show. Emily's teacher had submitted two pieces of art. One got honorable mention and her Frog picture got 1st place in the Photography Division.
Canon 60D/17-77mm lens
Day 118: Reflecting
I was left reflecting upon something my pastor said during the sermon, "You might like the perks of the Kingdom but do you really love Jesus?"
In today's age loving Jesus outwardly is starting to become harder. Our society shuns the truth for lies. Many say they are spiritual but don't care to follow Jesus and what the Word says but instead continue to do whatever they want.
Just yesterday my eldest came to me and asked if it would be okay if she skipped school on Thursday. Thursday the school was going to have a Day of Silence for people who are choosing to live a homosexual lifestyle and are being bullied. I will say straight up that we do not believe homosexuality is right. It isn't the "big" sin as some seem to make it out to be. Sin is sin regardless of if you lie or murder someone. The only difference is one will carry a heavier consequence.
Anyway, she said the school is going around with clip boards asking people to sign up for it. If you want to observe the day you wear one color duct tape over your mouth. If you want to observe it but don't want to be totally silent you wear a different color duct tap on your shoulder. This means those who are standing up for the truth of God's Word and not observing the day will be singled out which may lead to bullying. She fears what will happen if she chooses not to observe the day. No one should be bullied period and observing a day for anti-bullying for everyone and not just one group of people would be the better choice if you ask me.
As I was thinking about the sermon and this situation I was struck with the thought that I love Jesus but I more often than not enjoy the perks of His Kingdom more than I want to express it openly. Time is coming when making the choice to stand up for Jesus is going to happen and I need to do more than just enjoy the perks.
Canon 60D/55-250mm lens
Day 117: The Path
Life is like this path. It isn't straight forward but hits you with a bunch of bends and curves along the way.
Canon 60D/ 55-250mm lens
Day 116: Open Gate
This afternoon the family and I headed to the mall in search of a birthday present for a party my youngest is going to. She is the only one who really enjoys the mall so the rest of us weren't sure we'd enjoy the outing. Turns out we all had a good time.
My youngest and I have our moments. We don't scream and yell at each other but there are times we have gotten a little snarky with each other. :-) When she was a baby I was the one she preferred. She would scream and cry when I had to leave her. The older she got she became a Daddy's girl. Now she is a teenager and seems to be her own person and sometimes I wonder who she is.
Am I the only parent of a teenager who thinks this?
Anyway, this year has not be easy for her and there have been many changes going on in her life. A lot of growing up and learning experiences taking place which makes life seem like it isn't very fun. I think I had mentioned earlier that she and I have been writing in a journal which has opened the door for better communication. Since starting this journal we have been talking more. Recently, I discovered that she and I like to go shopping. She is a great shopper and loves to help me pick out clothes. I'm not one that has that clothing knack and really needs the help. :-)
I feel like although this has been a difficult year and at times I feel like we are growing a part, that lately the door much like this partially opened gate has been opening for us to establish a mother/teenager relationship. A relationship that is moving towards the coaching phase of raising children.
Canon 60D/17-77mm lens
Day 115: Squirreling
This afternoon I decided to finish cleaning up the garden beds while the warm weather was still around. Kozmo is my gardening buddy and decided to join me. Here he is laying in the sun in Dead Neighbor's overgrown yard. Just as I was about to take a picture of him sleeping he heard something and popped his head up. I'm sure it was a squirrel for which I feel bad for because it won't be long before the squirrel will become a Kozmo Snack if it isn't careful.
Taken with my iPhone.
Day 114: Garden Project
This isn't a very pretty picture but then again this area isn't pretty either. Three years ago my mother and I created the walkway you see towards the righthand corner. We used pavers that we had found laying around the house from previous owners. They aren't pretty but they were free and the ground cover has hid the fact that they are the cheap pavers.
Now that spring is upon us I've been combing Pinterest for gardening ideas and realized that this area is in need of a garden bed. Not a very big one but one that will liven the side of the house up.
Today my mother came over and in no time we had a new garden bed dug up and new plants planted. I'll have to take an "After" picture once the Hosta plants fill out.
Canon 60D/55-250mm lens
Day 113: Hosta Plant
I love Spring because it is the time of year my plants start to return. This is one of my many Hosta plants that has already opened its leaves. I think this one is new to me so I don't really know how big it'll get nor if it'll stay this color.
Canon 60D/55-250mm lens
Day 112: Bike Chain
This bike chain has been in this position for years. I just loved how the sun was shinning on it creating a chain shadow behind it.
Canon 60D/55-250mm lens
Day 110: Miniature Fern
My Miniature Fern is finally growing. I had my doubts because I thought I killed it by leaving it in the house too long. I can't wait to see what it starts to look like this summer!
Canon 60D/17-77mm lens
Day 110: Ironman Plushy
This isn't Eric's Plushy sitting on our bed. No, it is mine. Eric and Emily bought it for me this evening while they were out shopping. You see I am a bit of an Ironman fan.
Canon 60D/17-77mm lens
Day 109: Spirit
This is one of Tara's horses whose name is Spirit. I chose this photo because tonight the Spirited Women got together for dinner. I am growing to love these women and enjoy our monthly get-togethers.
Canon 60D/55-250mm lens
Day 108: Spring is Here
I took this photo the other day while I was at my friend's farm. The day started out cold and frosty but by the time I finished cleaning the sun was out and it had warmed up.
This is one of a few flowers scattered amongst the still to revive garden. Makes me feel like spring is here
Canon 60D/55-250mm lens
Day 107: Moth
I spotted this moth by my front door this morning. He was so unusual looking that I had to take a picture of him.
Canon 60D/17-77mm lens
Day 106: Remembering
Yesterday 3 people were killed and over 170 were wounded in the Boston Marathon Bombings. I was shocked and saddened as I watched the videos and looking at the pictures of the day.
This morning I was back at my friend's farm cleaning and noticed that she had her flag at half-mast. It was then that I remembered seeing her husband post on Facebook that this is how their family was going to remember those killed and wounded that day.
No words can express how sickened and saddened I am. Senseless . . . .
Canon 60D/55-250mm lens
Day 105: Storm is Coming
This evening we had a storm blow through. It was a weird feeling to be eating dinner and literally watch the sky darken within minutes. One side of our house looked like this and the other side was sunny. Within minutes we were in darkness and the rain was falling.
Canon 60D/17-77mm lens
Day 104: Tomato Butts
This evening we had Tacos for dinner and I forgot to get tomatoes. We don't always have tomatoes with our tacos so I figured it wasn't that big of a deal. Turns out it was. Everyone wanted them so Emily decided to cut up the grape tomatoes for us. She had a difficult time with them because she didn't want the tomato butts and left a gooey mess with a few tomato butt carcases laying in a pool of their own tomato guts.
Day 103: Wall-E Lunchbox
We had a fun day today. My eldest is in Leavenworth with her friend celebrating her friend's 16th birthday. She will seriously be there all weekend celebrating . . . super fun!
While she was gone I got a text from my youngest's friend asking if she could spend the night. This friend is like a 3rd child to us so we're always open to her coming over here. It gets kind of tricky when Em wants to go to her house and she wants to come to ours but we usually work it out. Turns out her Mom was going to be out all day and into the evening so it was best that she came to our house.
We picked her up and headed to see a movie. After the movie we went to the Goodwill. I didn't know this friend was into Goodwill kind of shopping but she was super excited about going and dragged Em all over the store. I came across this lunchbox during my wanderings. Who doesn't like Wall-E?
Oh, ya, that would be my in-laws. :-)
Taken with my iPhone.
Day 102: Here Comes The Rain Again
The Eurythmics song, "Here Comes The Rain Again" keeps on running through my head every day the rain falls. I normally am one that lets the bad weather run off my back and splash to the ground without getting the blues but for some reason I am not liking this rain. I fact, it is making my a bit crabby because it makes me feel tired and not motivated to do anything but curl up on the couch with a good book.
I took this picture through the sun roof of the Jeep before heading out and about for the day. Praying that we get sunshine soon!
Taken with m iPhone
Day 101: Pinky Tree Blooming
Today started out rainy but by this afternoon the weather cleared up and the sun started to shine between the dark rain clouds. FINALLY! Even this little bit of sun lifts my spirits. This is a picture of my Pinky Tree starting to bloom. Pinky Tree is actually a Cherry Blossom type of tree but my youngest use to call them Pinky Trees because of their blooms.
Did I already explain that to you?
Anyway, Pinky Tree is about 3 years old but doesn't look it. Sadly, two years ago a tree from the trail behind our house rotted out and fell on it splitting it almost down the middle. At first we thought it wasn't going to survive and wanted to take it out but I just couldn't bring myself to do it. It still had growth on it and I wanted to see if it could make it. Each year it continues to survive and grow. It isn't the most pretty tree yet but with proper pruning it will one day be a nice looking tree.
Canon 60D/17-77mm lens
Day 100: Starbucks Conversations
This morning I met with a good friend and neighbor at Starbucks. We use to visit with each other every day when we walked our kids to school. But since none of our kids are elementary aged we don't get to see each other very often. Over the years since elementary school we have made it a priority to meet at Starbucks for some girl chat time. This year we've only done that twice and this was one of those times. As we chatted we didn't realize that 4 hours had passed - guess we need to get together more often.
What a good way to usher in my 100th day of Project 365.
Canon 60D/17-77mm lens
Day 99: Rain Drops
I took this picture after driving Emily to school this morning. The weather here has literally sucked since Easter weekend. I hope it is true that April showers bring May flowers because if it only brings more rain I'll be ready to move to AZ. Ready for the sunshine!
Taken with my iPhone/Macro Lens
Day 98: Smoothie Blowup
I have been trying hard to keep on a better diet. Well, not really, I am too picky of an eater to diet. Anyway, I am not a fruit eater. The texture of most fruit makes me gag. But I have found out that I can eat fruit smoothies so I've been eating them every day.
Today I was having issues with our blender. Normally I crunch up the ice and frozen strawberries and then blend them on the smoothie speed. Unfortunately, the blender was having issues crunching up the frozen stuff so I lifted the lid, mixed it around and instead of hitting the smoothie button I hit the crunch button. My smoothie blew up all over.
Canon 60D/17-77mm lens
Day 97: Tardis Fez Hat
This is the top of the Tardis Fez Hat that my hubby made for Comicon. The top lights up like the Tardis in Dr. Who. Today we watched the latest episode of Dr. Who which reminded me of this cool hat.
Canon 60D/17-77mm lens
Day 96: Need Spring!
I actually took this a few days ago but I needed a reminder of what the weather was like last week. This weekend it has rained so much that we've achieved a new record for rainfall during this time of year. Not that it is surprising since we do live in the PNW. But I yearn for the beautiful day this picture was taken.
Canon 60D/55-250mm lens
Day 95: Family
This is a picture of the wall hanging my mother-in-law and her husband made for us one Christmas. Beneath this sign hangs birthdays of everyone in the family. I took this picture because it today my other in-laws came for a weekend visit.
Canon 60D/17-77mm lens
Day 94: Emily's Flowers
This is one of the flower from the bouquet of flowers I got for Emily on her 13th birthday. I was drawn to them because I can't believe they are still alive.
Canon 60D/17-77mm lens
Day 93: Blackberry Bushes Blooming
This was taken yesterday but I wanted to use it today because it shows me that spring is in the air. The other day I noticed that our blackberry bushes were starting to green up. Normally I am not a fan of blackberry bushes but our blackberry bushes act as a natural fence so we don't have to build one.
Canon 60D/55-250mm lens
Day 92: Strolling through the yard
I know I have a lot of pictures of Kozmo but he is always out and about when I work in the yard or just go outside. He is so desperate for attention that is becomes your constant companion if you are outside.
Canon 60D/55-250mm lens
Day 91: Pinky Tree
This afternoon my youngest and I headed out into the neighborhood with our cameras in search of Pinky Trees. Pinky Trees happen to be Cherry Blossom Trees but she use to call them Pinky Trees when she was younger.
Canon 60D/55-250mm lens
Day 90: No Ears!
I think this photo says it all. I shouldn't have trusted the Easter Bunny!
Canon 60D/17-77mm lens
Day 89: Chocolate Bunny is Gone!
Long story short - My mom likes to eat the ears off my chocolate Easter bunnies. She has done this since I was very young and she continues to keep the tradition alive to this day. This year she ate not only the ears but the whole bunny! I was left with the foil wrapping.
Canon 60D/17-77mm lens
Day 88: Sun & Shade
We are still enjoying the sun here in the PNW. With the sun comes my favorite - shadows. I liked how the sun was shining through the trees and onto the tree fort roof.
Canon 60D/55-250mm lens
Day 87: Robotics Competition
This my eldest at the Robotics Competition held in Seattle, WA this weekend. We had a good time joining her this morning and experiencing our first competition. I wasn't sure how fun it would be to watch robots maneuver around the floor, throwing Frisbees and/or climbing pyramids. But I was pleasantly surprised how much fun we had. This is also the first time I've seen my girl dressed in a purple tutu.
Day 86: Spring Tease
Today feels like spring. The sun is out, the trees are all of a sudden blooming and I see tiny green leaf buds starting to appear. I LOVE IT!
I took this picture because I Loved how the sun was shinning on the grass. I think I took a similar picture last month. I just can't help but be drawn to the sun today and how it is shinning on everything.
Canon 60D/55-250mm lens
Day 85: Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
Today my hubby of 20 years and I made homemade Chicken noodle soup together. His grandmother makes the BEST Chicken Noodle Soup that I look forward to every time I visit. In fact, the can stuff does nothing for me now that I've tasted her soup. Our soup was excellent and very easy to make.
Canon 60D/17-77mm lens
Day 84: Thirteen
Today my youngest became an official teenager. I say official because she has been acting like one for a few years now. :-)
Happy Birthday my sweet Em!
Canon 60D/17-77mm lens
Day 83: Last Time
This is a picture of my girls doing the family tradition of "Last time to Hug a <insert age>." It is a family tradition on my side but really is meant to give the child who is turning another year older the next day a kiss. My teenagers only tolerate this tradition so I met them half way and changed the kiss to a hug.
My baby baby is turning 13 tomorrow!
Canon 60D/40mm lens
Day 84: Photo Walking in the Snow
I'm cheating again and actually took this picture yesterday. This is my youngest who is into photography and loves to take photo walks with her Mama. She is using my 40D camera and enjoying it. Little does she know come Monday (her birthday) it will be hers for good. Right now she thinks she's just using it and I'm keeping it as a back-up. :-)
Canon 60D/55-250mm lens
Day 81: Spring Snow
Yesterday's light dusting of ice snow was just a sneak peak for what dumped on us last night. Although I find snow to be beautiful, I don't find it to be beautiful during spring. After months of the rainy dull winter I want to start seeing signs that the sun will shine and the temperature will warm up.
I took this picture while on a photo walk with my youngest.
Canon 60D/55-250mm lens
Day 80: 1st Day of Spring
Spring sure came in like a whirlwind today. The wind blew, the rain fell and then the snow came. SNOW! Thankfully it didn't stick and was really more ice than snow.
Canon 60D/55-250mm lens
Day 79: Mossy Roof
This is my neighbor's roof. He is one of those recluses who never ventures out very often. In fact, I don't think I've seen him once in the past 6 years. His yard is a complete mess. The front yard is overgrown and the back yard is a jungle full of blackberry bushes. The gutter on the front of the house is partially off and his deck has trees growing in the cracks.
His roof is a nightmare but I found the different colored moss to be pretty.
Canon 60D/55-250mm lens
Day 78: Watch Cat
Kozmo has been enjoying the sun these past few days. Today he was wondering around the yard with me while I took pictures. The poor thing is desperate for his family's love and soaks up any kind of attention he can get while we are outside. Sad isn't it?
Here he is at his favorite spot in the front yard. He likes to sit behind the ornamental grass and watch out for the cats across the street. Not that they have ever ventured into his yard mind you. He just wants to make sure he is ready to attack if they happen to venture out into their own yard.
Canon 60D/55-250mm lens
Day 77: New Fern
This poor fern has suffered being stuck inside since the Flower and Garden Show last month. I love ferns and fell in loves with it the second I saw it. Wasn't sure where it would fit into my garden but I knew I could find it a home.
I'm not sure this is where it will end up being but I did have fun doing a quick little something to get it planted.
Canon 60D/55-250mm lens
Day 76: iPad Case
This is a picture of my new iPad case. Why do I have a new one when my wonderful husband made me a beautiful duct tape case already? Well, let me tell ya . . . I dropped my iPad on the cement while getting out of the Jeep for church. Thankfully my other case saved it from total destruction by taking the brunt of the fall. The screen is not cracked and it only suffered a deep gouge on the corner. The skin on the back protected it as it slid across the cement after landing on its corner, breaking the case and falling out of it.
My husband has this website called the iPad Headquarters (www.ipdhq.com) where he gives tips on anything and everything that has to do with iPads, iOS, Photo Streaming and more. He had intended for this particular case to be given away via the website but instead he gave it to me. Good thing because I've become very clumsy lately. Thank honey!
Canon 60D/17-77mm lens
Day 75: Lip Gloss
I'm a Pinterest junkie. I don't spend hours pinning away but I do find a lot of neat things to do. My youngest is celebrating her 13th birthday next weekend by having her first slumber party. We have only let her have a few friends spend the night at one time because her friends were kind of crazy wild when she was younger. I can't do crazy wild so we have put it off until now. Nowadays they are still crazy wild but they are more manageable.
One of the fun things we'll be doing is making lip gloss. I found a few recipes on Pinterest to try out. The ingredients were the same but the method of making it was different. I decided to give the lip gloss creating a test drive so that I'd be prepared for 9 girls making it on Friday.
Canon 60D/17-77mm lens
Day 74: Happy Pi Day!
Today is Pi Day so I made the only pie I know how to make: Chocolate Mousse Pie.
Happy Pi Day!
Canon 60D/17-77mm lens
Day 73: Hope
I took this picture at my friend's little farm. I love this lawn ornament because it reminds me that no matter what happens in the life of a cancer survivor there is hope. My friend just finished treatment for breast cancer and is facing surgery at the end of the month. She is amazing! Canon 60D/55-250mm lens
Day 72: Blog Posting
This morning I decided to update my devotional blog for the month. It takes time to do this because I have to pull devotionals from on-line as well as from the books I own. I also write one devotional a week.
This is what my work area looks like on my blog updating days. I have my pile of devotional books, my devotional journal, Bible, iPad to look up passages in other bible translations, my laptop, cup of tea and water.
Canon 60D/40mm lens
Day 71: Aloe Vera Plant
This is a picture of the Aloe Vera plant I have sitting by the window in the kitchen. I got the plant from Eric's Grandmother a few years ago. Her plant is a beautiful plant and something that I was looking at one summer. Before we left she had divided it for me to take home.
I almost killed the original plant but managed to save a bunch of little baby sections and added it to another Aloe Vera plant my mom gave me. Since then it has been growing really well and finally looks healthy. Good thing it is hearty because I can't seem to keep indoor plants alive.
Canon 60D/40mm lens
Day 70: Laundry Day
Just recently I taught my girls to do their own laundry. I know I should have done this years ago but I'm OCD and a control freak so it was always easier to do it myself. On Saturday I encouraged them to combine their laundry and help each other. They did a good job but didn't divide their clean laundry to be folded. Now, here it sits on my dining room table not folded in a combined pile.
Canon 60D/17-77mm lens
Day 69: Rainy Day
Today I brought my camera to my parent's house in hopes to take a little photo walk in her backyard. Unfortunately, after a morning at church and lunch the rain started to fall.
Canon 60D/17-77mm lens
Day 68: Pinecone in a Basket
This pinecone is sitting in a basket in my parent's house. My mom loves pinecones and collects them whenever she can.
Cannon 60D/17-77mm lens
Day 67: Sunshine on Wire
Today has been one beautiful sunny and a tad bit warm kind of day. I didn't have a lot of time in between our plans to get out and about so I settled for another walk around the yard.
I love this railing on our deck. Over the years it has rusted into a nice color. I was drawn to how the sun made the rust color pop.
Canon 60D/55-250mm lens
Day 66: Afraid of a Dog
I had the pleasure of taking the new camera out into the back yard for a few minutes. In all reality, I need to spend a few weeks getting use to the new camera. Each camera has its own personality and I haven't even begun to figure this one out.
While I was out in the back yard my kitty Kozmo decided to join me. He wondered around with me begging for pets and rubbing against my let. All of a sudden he perked his ears up and took off up the deck stairs. Shortly after his departure a Great Dane and its owner came walking through the trail behind our house. This is what Kozmo looked like as he watched the dog walk past.
Canon 60D/55-250mm lens
Day 65: Stuck Leaf
This is picture is one of the first pictures I've taken with the new camera. Unfortunately, I don't have a lot of time to play with it and the weather is rainy. I can't wait to sit down tomorrow and learn all the new functions available on this camera that wasn't available on the last one.
The only reason why I took this picture is because it is the only leave that isn't laying flat on the deck in a mushy heap.
Canon 60D/55-250mm lens
Day 64: Precious 3.0
Happy Anniversary to me! My lovely husband saved money for us to use on our 20th Wedding Anniversary. Long story short: We were going to NY with the girls but it ended up being too much money. We don't want to go on vacation without them so we changed our minds. Instead we'll spend a week at Cannon Beach, OR, rent a beach house and celebrate our 20th anniversary for the fraction of the price it would have been to take us all to NY.
Because we were saving some money my hubby said how about get some bling? I'd love to have an anniversary band so I went for this. Then he said, "Or . . . . you can have the camera you've been wanting." I dumped the bling for the camera.
Back when I purchased the Canon 40D I really wanted a 50D but couldn't afford it. At the same time the 60D came out but if I couldn't afford a used 50D there was no way I could afford a new 60D. It didn't matter because I loved the 40D and have enjoyed using it these past few years.
The nice thing about the 60D is the video capabilities that Eric will love and Katelyn can use for her Dr. Who video. And Em gets to use the 40D.
I like it when everything works out . . . . Thanks for the lovely anniversary gift honey!
Canon 40D/17-70mm lens
Day 63: Chicken Bacon Pasta
I have had no interest in cooking until I discovered Pinterest. I don't know what it is about the recipes I find there but for some reason my family likes all but a few things I have cooked or baked for them. Tonight I decided to try Chicken Bacon Pasta. How can you go wrong with chicken mixed with bacon mixed with pasta?
Answer? You can't.
Canon 40D/17-70mm lens
Day 62: Chaos
So I took this picture the same day as the last two. I wish I could say I'll be creative with the remaining part of the day but I won't. I'm too tired to think about taking a picture. Besides, my youngest has my camera with her on their 2nd day at Comicon. Fine! So, I really don't want to take a picture today even with my iPhone. I'm all picture taking out from my long day at Comicon.
I'm not one that totally enjoys going with the family. Don't get me wrong, I'm a Geek at heart and love being there. I just get over stimulated and worn out but the large crowds. The Con was sold out for all three days so there were a LOT of people milling around.
This is a picture of my eldest being silly. She is more on the reserved side but when it comes to Cosplaying she comes out of her box and becomes a different person. It is fun to watch the transformation.
Canon 40D/17-70mm lens
Day 61: Cosplay
Here is what my girls looked like at Comicon. The younger went as the Mad Hatter and the elder went at Discord from My Little Pony (long story but teenagers are into this TV show). They both rocked their costumes and spent a lot of time getting their pictures taken.
Canon 40D/17-77mm lens
Day 60: Mad Hatter
Keeping up with taking pictures on a daily basis is proving to be difficult this month. I admit again that I took pictures on Day 60 and 61 on the same day.
This is a picture of my youngest after she got her make up done for her Mad Hatter costume. You see, our family likes to go to Comicon and the girls like to Cosplay (Costume Play). Each year my husband and mother combine their creative skills in making the girls their costumes. I am so proud of their teamwork and what they create that I must say (buttons popping) that their costumes are always the better ones at the convention.
Cannon 40D/17-77mm lens
59: Finding Room
This is my kitty Zoey. She is on the overweight side and has been given the nickname FBK (Fat Butt Kitty). This is the only chair that she is allowed to sit on when we are home. I've caught her sitting on the couch a few times and am guessing she does that when we are on vacation. This evening my youngest put her backpack in her spot so she had to fit her rather large frame on the very edge of the chair.
Canon 40D/17-77mm lens
Day 58: Flag
I am playing catch up and took this and the last picture this morning while I was at my friend's farm. This poor flag was dripping wet. If I had brought my camera I would have focused on the drops falling off the corner. But I didn't thinking that I wouldn't be taking pictures because it was raining. I even left my little lenses for my iPhone at home. Bummer . . . next time I'll bring the camera and take pictures from the covered porch.
Taken with my iPhone
57: Porch Swing
I love this swing that is on my friend's porch. Seeing it made me want to sit down and read a book after a long morning of cleaning.
Taken with my iPhone
Day 56: The Treadmill
I admit that I have a love hate relationship with our treadmill. This morning was my day to run on it but I found myself putting it off. I wrote a blog post, picked up the house and even went grocery shopping before I showered and got ready for the day. Around 10:30 a.m. I finally hopped on this dreadful contraption and ran for a little under 2 miles. I should explain that when I say running I really mean jogging because I don't get out of the warm up speed. :-)
Canon 40D/17-70mm lens
Day 55: Shadows on the Deck
As you can tell, I am into shadows. I took this picture while at my parents house today. I don't have much to say about it other than I love shadows.
iPhone/Telephoto lens
Day 54: Indoor Skydiving
This is a picture of my oldest on her 16th Birthday. She decided she wanted to skydive on her 16th birthday but is too young to jump out of an airplane. NOT that there is anything wrong with that . . . I really didn't want her to do it. Instead of jumping out of a plane we took them to an indoor skydiving place. Both girls had a wonderful time and did really well. I love this picture because you can tell my daughter is having the time of her life. Now she wants to do it for real . . YIKES!
Canon 40D/17-70mm lens
Day 53: B-Day Cake
This is a cake that my daughter's friend made for her. She made it and brought it to school on a pretty plate. How awesome is that?! This daughter of mine has exceptional friends and they all shower her with love, respect and support. I'm glad that she made this for us because we won't have one for my daughter tomorrow. Not that we didn't think about her. We're just heading to the Rainforest Cafe tomorrow for dinner and she requested a special cake from the cafe. I'm finding it hard to believe she'll be 16 tomorrow. Where did the time go?
Canon 40D/17-70mm lens
Day 52: Mountain Dew Cupcakes
I am a Mountain Dew junkie. I don't drink it every day. In fact, I rarely get it but when I do I saver every minute of it. I know it is really bad for you but this is the one time I don't care. In fact, we call it the Sweet Nectar of life in our house.
Today I made these cupcakes from scratch. I'm talking no box scratch! Including the icing. This is a BIG step for someone who use to hate to cook and bake. My eldest is turning 16 tomorrow and will be taking these to school to share with her friends in honor of her b-day.
Canon 40D/40mm lens
Day 51: Art Award
This picture is of my youngest receiving an award for a picture her art teacher submitted to the Scholastic Arts program. We had a good time watching students from 7th through 12th grades receive their awards as well as see their beautiful artwork displayed. These students are very talented!
Canon 40D/40mm lens
Day 50: Hello Little Flower
This morning as I was leaving for work I noticed a color in my garden. As I looked closer I noticed that my little Iris plants were blooming. This gives me hope that we can get through the dreary part of winter and early spring. I can't wait till my yard starts coming alive in the next few months.
Canon 40D/55-250mm lens
Day 49: Shadows
I love the afternoon winter sun because it casts lovely shadows. This is a picture of my fence in the back yard. I love how the afternoon sun is shinning on it leaving shadows that make part of it darker and the other part lighter.
Canon 40D/55-250mm lens
Day 48: Wall Clock
I live in a split level house. It wasn't my first choice of house styles because I don't like the split level entry that doesn't allow much room for welcoming and saying good-bye to guests. I also find them a bit on the ugly and without character. But the beauty of a split level is that it uses its space wisely which I like.
When we first moved into our house the entry was ugly. It had this nasty late 70's style wall paper, light fixture and dark tile on the floor that was broken. The first thing we did was replace the wall paper with a water wall. Then we replaced the broken tile with a slate floor and put hardwoods on the stairs. We also got a wall hanging that was a candle holder.
We aren't the kind of people that like to burn candles. I guess when we had the girls we put them all away during our baby proofing mode. After they grew up I just didn't get in the habit of lighting the few we have around the house. One Christmas my husband lit the three candles on the wall hanging and then we forgot about them. We opened gifts, had brunch, headed to my parent's house to celebrate my birthday that evening and came home and went to bed. It wasn't until our annoying cat started rooting around making noise and had to be put in the downstairs bathroom that I discovered we forgot to blow them out. As I was walking back up the stairs I noticed an odd light reflecting in the window next to the front door. I turned around and saw the candles still burning. They were almost completely burned down and the wax melted all over the wall and onto the carpet.
We threw away the candles and I went on a candle hunt. By now, my husband had become sensitive to scents and couldn't handle scented candles. I had trouble finding unscented candles that looked pretty so our wall fixture stayed candle free for many years until a few weeks ago when my youngest found a nice wall clock for us at Hobby Lobby. It fits perfectly.
Canon 40D/55-250mm lens
Day 47: Hailing
This has been a weird day all the way around. I woke up this morning and had a vertigo episode. Thankfully it was over quickly and I wasn't flat on my back for the rest of the day. But it left me feeling out of it and unable to do all I had planned on doing today. Basically, I sat on my rear end reading my book. I did make two pasta salads for Life Group tonight but that was it.
The weather has also been a bit weird. Right in the middle of the day it started to hail. Now the sun is trying to peek out from under the clouds and the rain has let up. I remember my Grandmie always telling me how unpredictable our weather in Seattle is (she was from Wisconsin). How one minute it could be raining the next clear and sunny. That's the Pacific Northwest for you.
Canon 40D/55-250mm lens
Day 46: Splatter Paint Nails
My youngest likes to paint her nails. I always keep this in mind as I'm browsing Pinterest because I know she can use new nail painting ideas. The other day I came across how to Splatter Paint your nails. It is pretty easy . . . put a glob of nail polish on a paper plate, dip one end of a straw into it, aim it close to your nail and blow. The only issue I have with it is that it is kind of messy so I had to dig out the girl's old art tablecloth to lay down so Em could paint her nails.
Canon 40D/17-70mm lens
Day 45: A Love Story
I printed this verse out on cards to leave behind wherever I went. I had planned on taking them to Panera Breads when I met a friend yesterday morning. But I forgot them. Then, I was thinking about taking them to the grocery store with me today. But I was in a hurry and forgot to leave them around the store. I did leave one at the library drop box as well as in two DVD's I'd checked out. I'm sure I'll continue to pass them out wherever I am until they are all gone.
I pray that someone will read these verse and be drawn to look them up. You never know what small seed planted will grow into.
Canon 40D/17-70mm lens
Day 44: Valentine
This afternoon the girls put together their Valentine's Day goodie bags for their friends. I find it funny that when they were younger I didn't want to make special treats. But now that I'm branching out and making things I want to make special treats for their friends on Valentine's Day. Unfortunately, we don't make enough treats for everyone in their class. That would mean probably making over a 1000 treats and I'm not about to do it.
Canon 40D/17-77mm lens
43: Wafer Treat
We are on day two of our Valentine's Day treat making. This time around we got the hang of making them. Again, these did not look as pretty as the picture on Pinterest but we didn't care because they are just as good, if not better, than the pretzel treats. My youngest and I had a fun time getting our fingers gooey and eating the treats that "broke".
Canon 40D/17-70mm lens
Day 42: Pretzel Treat
This evening my youngest and I made a pretzel treat for Valentine's Day. I will spare you the details of us learning how make them. Honestly, they don't look like the picture I found on Pinterest . . . but we didn't care because they tasted really good.
Canon 40D/17-70mm lens
Day 41: Mentoring
This has been a weekend of blessings for me. Yesterday I was blessed by my Cancer Sisters in Christ and today I was blessed by a group of women who are Mentoring other women through the Women of Legacy Mentoring Ministry at church. I can not tell you how blessed I am to watch the Lord bring together women who need mentoring with women who are willing to set aside time to walk along side these women as mentors.
I happen to be the team's photographer as well as a Prayer Partner. As a Prayer Partner I support two Mentors through prayer by calling and/or emailing them and just being there for them if they need prayer support.
Today we got together with just the Mentors for s short training session and to hear how things were going with their Mentees. Some have struggled with their relationships while others have become close friends. Most Mentors expressed how much they have been blessed and have learned from their Mentees and are amazed at how God brought them together.
I chose this picture out of the day because it represents to me motherhood. Motherhood is like a mentoring relationship. We rock our babies to sleep in a rocking chair much like this one. We also guide our children into adulthood much like the women in this program are guiding their Mentees through life.
Canon 40D/17-70mm lens
Day 40: Jesus Calling
I can tell you with all honesty that I heard Jesus calling down to us as my Cancer Sisters in Christ came together today. Not everyone knew each other. Some of us go to church together, one is a friend of mine from way back when both of our children were babies and one lady was a friend of one of my church gals. I was amazed at how quickly we came together as a group. I guess it helps that we are women who are Believers that have cancer in common. :-)
As each one of us shared our stories I was literally blown away by how God was working in their lives to grow them individually, show them what truly in important in life and how their testimonies are touching the lives of others who are watching them go through their cancer journey.
I am beyond blessed to know that something the Lord placed on my heart as a small bud last year is starting to bloom. My goal of having a safe haven where there is no TMI and lots of love, encouragement and prayer took root this afternoon. I don't know what is in store for this group but the sky is the limit as long as Jesus is directing us. I pray that others will hear His Calling through a group of women He called together.
Canon 40D/17-70mm lens
Day 39: Cancer Support
I just got done with the goodie bags for my cancer support group. Inside these bags is a journal, a packet of cards with memory verses to turn to when you need a pick me up from the Lord, peppermint candies for the days when chemo treatment makes your mouth dryer than the desert and/or makes your taste buds sour, a bookmark of the "Footprints" poem and immune support tea.
The colors you see are the cancer awareness colors of each cancer that will be represented tomorrow. Blue is for Colon Cancer, Pink represents Breast Cancer, Black is for Melanoma and Green is for Lymphoma. They are all different cancers with different forms of treatment that result in different side effects. Some of us are in the middle of treatment. Some are just finishing. Two are on the brink of having bilateral mastectomies. One, like me, is a Lymphoma survivor. We are all survivors because we survive and have survived with our disease one day at a time from the day we were diagnosed. We are all women fighting the same disease but are united under the same Lord and Savior who loves us and is guiding us through our cancer journey.
I am looking forward to being with my fellow Cancer Sisters tomorrow!
Canon 40D/17-70mm
Day 38: Old & New
I am so happy that despite the weather predictions of rain all week that the sun is shining today. I decided since it was somewhat nice out that I better get out in the yard to see what was going on. I haven't worked in my yard for a few months and it is starting to show. I see a few weeds poking up here and there and a few things that need to be cut back. I was amazed to see some buds starting to form at the ends of branches. Here is a picture of my Hydrangea. You can see the old flowers are almost brown and yet right next to the old flowers is a brand new bud.
This new discovery is causing me to want to get the gardening gloves on, the knee pads strapped on my knees and my tools out to get this yard of mine cleaned up.
Canon 40D/17-70mm lens
Day 37: Support
Today I am starting to prepare for the cancer support group I'm starting in my home. The idea came to me last May when a dear church friend told me how she felt a loss of hope while she was going through treatment for lung cancer. I asked her if she had anyone to talk to and she said she didn't. After giving her my information I started to think about how lost I felt while I was going through my cancer treatment. I had support through a message board that was beyond wonderful but I didn't have spiritual support. That is when the idea came to me that I needed to start a support group in my home for the women in my life that are dealing with cancer. And believe me, there are way too many.
I chose this verse as the foundation of this group. It is a verse that I have tried to uphold in my life since cancer entered my world. We have an amazing God who can use the trials that come into our lives to help walk along side someone else going through similar trials. I pray that this group will become a source of comfort, support, encouragement and hope.
Canon 40D/17-70mm lens
Day 36: Steam Mop
This is a picture of my new steam mop. Is it weird that I'm excited about it? As you probably have guessed by now that I clean houses on the side. I say on the side because my first job is being a stay-at-home-mom. Fortunately, I'm a stay-at-home-mom with kids in school so I have time on my hands to work. I don't want a part-time job because my girls still need me. I like to be home when they leave for and come home from school. Cleaning has allowed me to make my own schedule and be home when the girls are home.
I was introduced to a steam mop a few years ago when I started cleaning a new client's house. I fell madly in love with how easy it made my job. No more hand washing hardwood floors on my hands and knees. I decided then and there that we needed one for our house. I think my house elves (my girls) will appreciate the fact that they no longer have to both wash and dry the floors. :-)
Canon 40D/40mm lens
Day 35: Squirrel!
It is a rare sight to see a squirrel in our yard. I usually see them mangled after Kozmo has a midnight snack. This little guy was on top of the Tree Fort digging in the gutters for his own snacks. Thankfully my kitty was occupied by trying to get into the house so he didn't see the squirrel.
Canon 40D/55-250mm lens
Day 34: Mad Hatter
My family is into Cosplay which means that they like to dress up for events like Comicon. My girls had a good time last year dressing up as Daleks and were coined, "The Dalek Sisters." They were so popular that we spent hours in the atrium of the Seattle Convention Center while people took their pictures. I was a bit weirded out from experiencing my first Comicon and watching adults dress up. I also wasn't totally comfortable with strangers taking pictures of my girls. I ended up getting use to it and enjoying my time watching other people enjoy my girls in their costumes.
My husband and mother work as a great team as they create these beautiful costumes for the girls. This year my youngest is going as Johnny Depp's Mad Hatter from Alice in Wonderland. We have spent the past month collecting pieces for this costume and my mother has been sewing her fingers to the bone getting her part done. My husband has been working on the accessories which included building a top hat from scratch. This is a picture of the hat almost completed. Just thought you'd like to get a sneak peak of it.
Canon 40D/55-250mm lens
Day 33: Inside Please?
Kozmo has decided that since I have been letting him inside once in a while that he can come in whenever he asks. Unfortunately, he can't always come in so he spends his time begging. Here he is begging my husband (whom dislikes him because of his spraying habit that always took place on my husbands stuff) to come in.
And yes, my windows are in major need of a clean. :-)
Canon 40D/55-250mm lens
Day 32: Sunshine on the Grass
The sun finally came out after many days of fog and rain. I was so excited that when I got the chance I ran out into the back yard to see what I could find through the lens. The first thing that caught my eye was the sun shinning on the grass. It made the rain drops stand out and looked so beautiful that I had to try to see if I could capture the moment.
Canon 40D/55-250mm lens
Day 31: Window
I was so happy to be able to take a picture outside and not of my deck. I was able to snap a few quick pictures of my friend's farm while I was there cleaning. The step-son was still asleep so I wasn't concerned about being the crazy cleaning lady taking pictures. :-) Unfortunately, it was raining so I didn't want to stand around taking pictures with my camera getting wet. I felt a bit rushed. I am really looking forward to the weather clearing up so that I can take a photo walk. Taking a picture a day does not make up for quality time with Precious (nickname for my camera . . . . long story as to how it got that name).
Canon 40D/55-250mm lens
Day 30: Wet Leaves
Our weather has not been good for photo walking. I guess if I really wanted to I would make it happen. But I'm not one to go out and about in the rain so I haven't. Today the rain let up but it still feels wet outside. Since I didn't want to take a walk I had to settle for whatever was on my deck. These poor leaves look like they are ready to be done with their laying around.
Canon 40D/40mm lens
Day 29: The Journal
Just recently my youngest daughter and I started a journal. I won't got into details as to why but I will say that we use it as a form of communicating with each other. She and I often can't put to words what we're thinking and sometimes it is hard for her to tell us what she is dealing with. This journal allows her to express how she is feeling and ask questions without the threat of consequences (with a few exceptions). The only rule I have is that when she writes in it that she leaves it on my nightstand so that I know it is my turn to read it and respond.
Every time I see it next to my bed I know God is allowing the door of communication to open up a little at a time.
Canon 40D/40mm lens
Day 28: Dance Party!
I realize that this is not the best picture I've ever taken. I had to do it on the sly with my phone and quickly before my girls caught me and stopped dancing. I know my youngest likes to play dancing games but I have never seen my oldest dance so this was cool. I knew their friend could get my eldest to dance. She's good that way. :-)
Taken with my iPhone
Day 27: Busy Month
This is my calendar for the month of February. I almost hate looking at it because it makes feel tired and overwhelmed.
Canon 40D/17-70mm lens
Day 26: Deep Discussion
I know this isn't a very good picture but I didn't have my camera next to me so I grabbed my phone and snapped a quick picture before they realized what I was doing. I didn't want to disturb their deep discussion by finding my camera and getting it set just right.
I love my hubby! He is the most amazing father a wife could ever ask for because he is 100% into his kids. It doesn't matter what they are into and if he is into it. If they are into something he'll be there to support them and let them enjoy it to the fullest. He also is always willing to sit down and talk to them no matter how late at night it is or how exhausted he is.
Taken with my iPhone
Day 25: Apron
I finally completed my sewing project! I decided since I was starting to bake more that I needed to have an apron. Really, I just needed an excuse to sew again and knew that this apron pattern was easy. My hubby knows how to sew and helped guide me through the project. - Thank you!!
Now on to some baking so I can use my new apron.
Canon 40D/17-70mm lens
Day 24: Book Hunting
Today I had a date with my Dad. Yes, I'm 43-years-young and I still go out on dates with my Dad. It is something we use to do when I was younger and something I still like to do to this day. Our dates usually consist of book hunting at our favorite Goodwills and lunch. We tried a book exchange place but I really didn't like it. It cost way too much but I did find two books I have been looking for so I didn't mind. Just won't visit it again.
All in all it was a wonderful day and I enjoyed spending it with my dad combing book shelves, sharing authors we like and laughing over silly things while eating lunch.
Taken with my iPhone
Day 23: Bible Study
I admit that I forgot to take a picture yesterday . . . this picture being posted on the 24th. I fully intended to take this picture yesterday but after my busy day and going to Bible study it slipped my mind. I'm sure it won't be the last time I forget and I will allow myself these slip ups as long as I take an extra picture the next day to make up for it.
These are my bible study materials. We are going through Beth Moore's, "James Mercy Triumphs" bible study. I admit that I'm not a Beth Moore fan. I know she seems to be the women's bible study guru but I have honestly liked other studies by lesser known authors. With that said, this study has started out to be promising and I have enjoyed learning the new things I've learned about James.
The next bible study material is my prayer journal (this one my mother-in-law made for me). I started to keep one about a year ago. I don't write out my prayers because it doesn't work for me. What I do is write out prayer requests and update answers when and if they come. I also keep a record of what I call, "The Wonders of God". It is a list of the blessings that come into my life on a daily basis. And lastly, I also do a little journaling. Nothing big but notes along side whatever scripture I'm currently reading. I don't always glean something to journal but it is nice to have a record of when I have light bulb moments.
Lastly, which should go first, I have my Bible. Since my wonderful hubby gave me his iPad when he upgraded to the new one I have been using it as a resource. I use it along side of my study bible because I can have many different bible versions at my fingertips.
Canon 40D/40mm lens
Day 22: Lake Stevens
I quickly took this picture right after cleaning a client's house. My client lives in Lake Stevens and has a decent view of the lake.
Taken with my iPhone/Telephoto Lens
Day 21: Chocolate Chip Cookies
This afternoon my youngest daughter and I baked chocolate chip cookies. If you know me you would know that this is out of the norm because I don't bake and haven't baked chocolate chip cookies for years. YEARS I tell ya!
Lately, I've been into trying things I normally don't do. Like baking, cooking new recipes and sewing. Since we were being lazy today and none of us had done anything together . . . we have teenagers who enjoy time alone . . . I figured we should give cookies a try. Besides, I've been wanting chocolate chip cookies for a week now!
Canon 40D/40mm lens
Day 20: Bowl of Popcorn
I admit that I LOVE popcorn and often eat it for dinner. And yes, I devoured this big bowl of popcorn all by myself. :-)
iPhone/Fisheye Lens
Day 19: Ball Jar Pincushion
I have been a fan of Pinterest for some time now. I have not only found great recipes my family likes but also sewing ideas. I had more fabric than I need from my sewing project and decided to make myself a pincushion. I came across a tutorial to make one out of a small mason/jam jar. It was super easy to make and I love the fact that I can store the pins inside as well as have a place to stick them on top.
Canon 40D/40mm lens
Day 18: Pincushion
Today I finally started my new sewing project. My mom came over and helped me get started with cutting out the pattern. I have only made one other project a year ago and need to be reminded how to get started. So far it is going well. Will start the actual sewing part tomorrow. Can't wait to show you the finished product.
Canon 40D/17-70mm lens
Day 17: Cemetery Fog
This morning I brought my camera with me when I went to my cleaning job in Monore, WA. Two weeks ago I took a short photo walk around my friend's farm and was hoping to do that again today. Unfortunately, her step-son was home and I felt it would be weird for the cleaning lady to wonder around the property taking pictures. Kicked myself as I headed home thinking about all the beautiful things I could photograph on the farm in the snow. But I didn't so I started to look out for other things to photograph as I drove home past farms with beautiful barns and pastures. Unfortunately, there was no place to pull over so I had to keep on going passing up one photo op after another. That is when I remember the cemetery I pass every time I head to my friends house. It was still foggy so I figured I'd have plenty to photograph.
I like this picture because I love how the dirt road leads directly into the fog. Kind of reminded me of a scary movie with zombies.
Canon 40D/17-70mm lens
Day 16: Frozen Pinecone
This morning as I was letting the cat inside I noticed something laying on the railing that wasn't there before. Upon further inspection I realized it was a frozen tiny pinecone.
Canon 40D/17-70mm lens
Day 15: Sewing Project
I admit that I almost forgot to take a picture today. My day was so busy that it slipped my mind until 9:30 p.m. That is when I grabbed my camera and snapped this picture. I didn't even set it up correctly but didn't care. I guess I should have. This is fabric that I'm going to use on my next sewing project. I won't tell you what it is. You'll have to see it when I'm finished.
Canon 40D/40mm lens
Day 14: Snowing
After a week of clear skies and cold weather the clouds roll in and this morning it started to snow. As you can see it hasn't accumulated to much but it has been fun to sit inside where it is warm and watch the snow fall.
Canon 40D/55-250mm lens
Day 13: The Grandparent
I took this picture while we were visiting my parents after church today. We usually have lunch with them every Sunday but due to Driver's Ed, the holidays and sickness we were unable to join them on Sundays for a few months. I love this backyard because it has been the location of many family gatherings and I LOVE to get together with my family.
Taken with my iPhone with the Fisheye lens
Day 12: Grass Frost
This morning I had to take my oldest daughter to her Robotics meeting. It meant that I had to get up early on a Saturday which gave me the opportunity to look outside to see the frost on the grass and trees before it started to melt. Not that it will today because we're supposed to be having cold weather for the next week. Like yesterday, I love how you can see the individual hairs of frost on the grass and leaf.
Canon 40D/55-250mm lens
Day 11: Frost Hair
Last night it got really cold here in the Pacific Northwest. Didn't wake up to snow but lots of ice on the roads, trees, deck and grass. I love this picture because you can see the little individual pieces of frost that look like frost hair.
Canon 40D/17-70mm lens
Day 10: Icy Leaf
Last night it started to snow. We all thought we'd wake up to white stuff on the ground but it didn't accumulate to much. The melting ice on the deck caught my attention and I noticed that some ice was still clinging to the leaves. I wonder if we'll get snow tonight?
Canon 40D/ 55-250mm Lens
Day 9: A Congratulations Hug
This is a picture of my husband giving our youngest a congratulations hug for a job well done. She entered her frog picture in the PTA Reflections Program and earned a 2nd place ribbon. This was a hard night for her as she had some disappointing news with another event she tried out for and wasn't very joyful this evening. Tis why you see the disappointed on her face. Regardless of how she felt we were all proud of her for sticking out the 3 days of tryouts and for the award she got this evening. She is a VERY talented photographer and I'm so proud of her!!!
Canon 40D/40mm lens
Day: 8 Rainy Drive
I have been Mama Taxi since the school started up again. I spend most of my evenings driving kids to and from some event. This evening a little storm blew in with the wind causing the rain to fall sideways. It was one miserable commute.
Taken with my iPhone
Day 7: Kozmo
This is my favorite cat Kozmo. He normally is an outdoor kitty but I sometimes let him in to hang out with me during the day. Shhhh, don't tell my hubby. :-) This is his happy face because he finally got his way after hours of meowing at the back door.
Canon 40D/40mm lens
Day 6: Rainy Night
I took this photo on my way home from visiting my friend who lives a few houses down the block from me. I went over there when it was still light out hoping to go on a short photo walk after our visit but we got to talking and next thing you know it was dark and time for me to head home.
Canon 40D/40mm lens
Day 5: Tea Time
I love my tea time but there was a time in my life that I didn't like tea. It wasn't until my friend got me to come to her tea party by asking me to take pictures for her. She was polite and didn't force me to drink tea but she had a way about her that made me want to give it a try. Once I did I was hooked. This picture is of my favorite tea cup filled with my favorite tea (Green Tea). This tea cup is perfect because it is slightly round and fits into my hands comfortably. I use it EVERY day 3 to 4 times a day.
Canon 40D/17-70mm lens
Day 4: Grandma
This photograph is of a wall art I found in my grandparent's stuff after they passed away. I'm not sure why I was drawn to it but I think it has to do with the fact that it reminds me of how she decorated her house: 70's harvest gold, greens and reds. I love how it is made out of horse shoe nails and the glass matches the green color Grandma used in her living room.
Canon 40D/40mm lens
Day 3: Farmyard Fence
This is a picture of my friend's fence on her little farm. I happen to clean for this friend of mine and this afternoon I decided to bring my camera with me to take pictures of her wonderful yard. In many ways I'm a tad bit jealous of her new home. It not only has two beautiful horses and a few chickens and roosters but the house is surrounded with a garden I would LOVE to have. Right now it has its winter look but I know with a little bit of Spring that it'll be beautiful.
Canon 40D/40mm lens
Day 2: Winter Leaf
This is one of several leaves scattered around my deck. By now the leaves have lost their beautiful Fall colors and are brown and dull looking. Regardless of how dull they look I am still drawn to them. I love the way they start to look paper thin and rip with their veins showing.
Canon 40D/40mm Lens
Day 1: Frozen Leaf
I took my first picture of the Project 365 Challenge with my iPhone using the Fisheye lens. This is a picture of my parent's little table that sits out on their front deck. As you can see it got a bit chilly last night.