A Piece of the Past

There's just something fun about this outfit. A bit of a "throwback." It reminds me of a "Time Past." You know, like you were in a movie or a book. Set a few decades ago.

When life was a bit more simple. More about relationships, than careers. When people enjoyed the simple things in life. Like a cup of tea. Or really sat down, to get to know their neighbors. When books were the "common place past time."



It makes me smile. Just to think, at one time, ladies really were real ladies. Lace, pearls, and high heels. Oh, what I would give, to have lived then. To be a lady. A really lady. When dressing up, wasn't saved for a wedding. It was just an "every day look."

The days of fashion. When slips were commonplace. Women wore gloves. Sunday drives were a regular event. And Sunday dinners were for family and friends to share. Yes, a simple time. Filled with the important things...family, friends, and a little bit of fashion.

Yes, I'm a big fan of vintage clothing, style, and homes. It makes me think of our past. Of our history. I really would give anything to have lived then. Just for a day or two. To really live life. Since I can't, well, I can be inspired. I need to add a few more "ladylike" pieces to my closet. ♫

Beautiful

I've always been a lover of the "Great Outdoors." I just didn't really enjoy being outdoors, getting dirt under my nails, and really gardening, until I had my own home. Things have greatly changed. Now, I spend most of my free time outside.



Aren't these flowers just gorgeous? I honestly don't know what kind of flowers these are, but I think they're so pretty. I just love the brightly colored blooms!



And this space, oh it's like a piece of heaven. I have dreams. That my side yard, can one day feel, something like this. You know, a bit enchanted. Like it's a secret hideaway in the woods. Something fun, beautiful, and natural. A place to escape and re-energize. ♫

Miss These

These were the yummiest candy bars ever! No lie. And stumbled on them. Literally. At the Dollar Tree. There was a big box, thrown on the ground. It was a very good thing. Because had I not stumbled, I would never have seen these delights. And very quickly, I became addicted.



The Caramel was super yummy. Creamy. Extra sweet. In a way, that makes you split up the candy. And savor it over a few days. The Peanut Butter, well it was heaven. Slightly salty. The perfect combination with the smooth and rich chocolate. There are really no other candy bars like these. Not with this perfect combination of flavor.

Who knew? These guys were a limited edition treat. And I sure do miss them. Why do companies do this to us? I mean, they don't have to be "Big 'Mo" bars. Just a candy bar, exactly like it, by Palmers. That's not asking for much...is it? ♫

Love These Guys!

I bet you didn't know this about me, I LOVE flamingos. They have always been my favorite animal. The minute I'd find out my class was going on a field trip to the Zoo, all I could think of, were these cute, pink birds.



I don't know what it is. Maybe because they feel a bit exotic. You know, a pink bird in the desert, that's pretty cool. And hello, they're pink! I have always been mesmerized that flamingos stand on one leg. As a kid, I'd stand there and watch them. Standing on one foot. People probably thought I was nuts!

Ya, I'm the one that bought 3 flamingo Christmas ornaments. Just because they were fun. I may or may not have a few ceramic flamingos on my desk, at work. Oh, and ya, I do have so many pictures of these fun birds. I just can't help myself! ♫

Chocolate-Cherry Cake

Have you ever tried the Gooseberry Patch Free Recipes of the Week? Some of my favorite recipes come from there! So yummy! Especially the desserts. If you've never heard of Gooseberry Patch, you're missing out!

Gooseberry Patch is a great company! If you're ever at a loss of what to get me for Christmas or my birthday, head over there. I'd love a cookbook or some of their cute kitchenware. Just kidding! OK, maybe I'm being real here. But they do have some of the best cookbooks ever! I've checked out a few from my local library, and I got 3 for Christmas presents this past year. :)

Here is one of my favorite recipes! And I've been dying to make it again. I just need to get the ingredients together. Oh, and I should probably make a little time to bake. But if you want to try it out, here's the recipe. ♫



Chocolate-Cherry Cake




Ingredients:

18-1/2 oz. pkg. devil's food cake mix
21-oz. can cherry pie filling
2 eggs
1 T. almond extract
1 c. sugar
5 T. butter
1/2 c. evaporated milk
1 c. milk chocolate chips
1 t. vanilla extract

Directions:

Combine cake mix, pie filling, eggs and almond extract in a mixing bowl. Beat with an electric mixer on high speed until well mixed (cherries will break up somewhat). Pour into a greased 13"x9" baking pan and bake according to package directions. About 5 minutes before cake is done, whisk together sugar, butter and evaporated milk in a saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a boil; boil for one minute. Remove saucepan from heat and stir in chocolate chips and vanilla extract. Remove cake from oven; immediately pour icing over cake. Let cake stand for at least one hour. Serves 8 to 10.

The Electric Company

Do you remember The Electric Company? I don't. It came out in the 70s. That's before I was born. But I've heard some people talk about it. My Mom is always telling me how my brother and sister watched it.



And then, it was cancelled. I'm thinking that Sesame Street probably killed The Electric Company. Anyway, it's back. And on PBS.



If you are like me, you might catch it on TV. Or you can find it on YouTube. They have a few episodes posted.



And how do I know about it? Because some of my Goddaughters and I sat and watched it the other day. It's actually a good show. I know. Surprise, surprise. But I really did enjoy it. As did the cutie patootie little girls I was hanging out with. So did you used to watch it? Or are you a new fan too? ♫

Newspapers

I'm pretty sure I got my LOVE of reading newspapers from my Tatie. I spent so much time with my grandparents growing up. And folks, they read the newspaper every single day.

But it was my Tatie, that really got me interested in the newspaper. We'd sit at the kitchen table reading. Every afternoon, we'd read the newspaper. I was little. Maybe 5 years old. And I can still remember it so clearly.

These days, I read at least 5 newspapers a day! I know. It's a bit crazy. But I read the New York Times, the USA Today, and at least 3 local newspapers. Sometimes I read the Mexican paper and my school newspaper. Yes, I'm a bit obsessed. But they're free at school. And I'm learning so much. Besides, I really do enjoy reading the paper. ♫

Little Dorrit

Last year, I watched Little Dorrit on PBS. Yes, I spent my summer, on Sunday nights, watching Little Dorrit. I read the book in high school. And I really enjoyed it.

I absolutely LOVED watching the movie. It was shown in 90 minute episodes. And was amazing! I would anxiously wait for Sunday nights. If I was working, I'd watch it online.

Then when it was over, I heard that the movie was being sold at Target. I really wanted it. But I never bought it. I have the book. But this movie, Little Dorrit, is on my "Wishlist." That is how much I LOVED watching it!!! ♫

She's Country

She's country. Who you ask? Me! I somehow survived yesterday. It was so much fun. But a heck of a lot of work! 12 pairs of boots, 5 racks of clothes, and who knows how much makeup later, we got our pictures.

Now it's on to work on playlists for the gigs. N will do his work with the pictures. He's amazing at what he does! In about 3 days, we'll get the negatives back. B (the leader of the band), my bosses and I will decide on what we'll use. These pictures are for promotional stuff like posters and flyers. They'll also print a few group shots, our head shots, and who knows what not all. We use these for our appearances and VIP events. That's what we sign. Which I'm still not sure about. Who really wants my autograph?

The best part of the day, was definitely the shots with Mr. Blue Eyes. He is so goofy! And the only "real professional" of all of us. Because, he actually does this professionally as part of his job. The rest of us, well we do it for gigs. That's it. You can actually see him on tv and in print ads. But we had fun music blasting the entire time! And it was just about us having fun!

The wild west shots were hilarious. Mostly because I was having wardrobe issues. Talk about malfunctions in my costumes! But we managed to keep it light and fun! Because that's how we roll. You know, the band is like a bunch of brothers. They are sincerely my big brothers. And together, we're all just about having fun.

Happy Tuesday! And take a looksy at the video. This song always puts me in a good mood! Mr. Blue Eyes even managed to get some video of me dancing to the instrumental break (after 2:10) in the song. It was really kinda funny! ♫

Photoshoot

What am I doing today? I'm working with N. N is the photographer that we've been working with for years! Bless M's heart. She just had her twins on March 21st. And this morning when I got to J's house, she was here. Waiting to do my hair and makeup. B needs to buy her a diamond just for that!

C is here too. She is our stylist and is here steaming all of my clothes. Both bosses are here. Along with the band. Which I have to say, these guys suck! I say it every single time that we do this. Because half of the group is asleep. The other half is having breakfast. I'm sitting here. Having my hair and makeup done. It's not even 3:30AM!

It's going to be a long day. And it's cold outside. Soon, I'll be in some tank top and this cute jean skirt. With cowboy boots, of course! Climbing a ladder to get on top of a barn. Because N has this obsession getting pictures as the sun rises. OMG! I'm not good with heights.

The tractors are out. And the ATVs. We have tons of clothes for today. And I'm quite excited! I'm down in weight. Just above 100 lbs! But I'm still not 100% comfortable with the whole bikini and boots pictures. Especially when I see 5 different bikinis hanging up. Ugh! By the way, these cold temps and bikinis don't go so well together. Not at all!

I'm sitting here falling asleep. I'm tired! And M is working hard on my hair. Poor woman, she has her work cut out for her. C is working hard with the steamer. N and the bosses are talking. I can tell it's going to be a long day! Because N has his notebook out. Taking a ton of notes. Oh my! This is what we do to get ready for shows.

So far, the shots include the band standing on top of the big red barn. I might just die thinking about it! Then there are shots on tractors. Like J driving it, and me sitting in the bucket of it. Scary, but fun! We have things planned in the fields. Some fun in a sports car. And we're ending with us riding ATVs through the mud. Who knows what else we'll do...

But I do see some fun costumes. And I'm thinking we're going to shoot some things at the old west town. Yes, J has an old Wild West Town on his property. And the Barmaid/Can-Can costume is a good clue to all of that madness. I just I hope I survive the day!

Well, I should go. M has a lot of work ahead of her. Besides the hair, she still has my makeup to do. And oh ya, we've got to be on the roof of the big red barn before sunrise. I'm scared out of my mind! But this is just the beginning to our gigs. ♫

Baby Sunsuit

I LOVE this Baby Sunsuit! And I really want to make one for My Lil' Cowgirl. It's so cute! If my best friend, H has a little girl, this will be on my list to make her. It's so cute! And it's a free crochet pattern from Free Crochet. Honestly, it's so cute. And it looks like a super easy pattern. Something that is definitely going on my "To-Make" list. ♫

Missed Events

Today, I'm missing my cousin's wedding. And I feel bad. I mean, it's his wedding. And I'm sure, it's going to be his only wedding. I got the invitation weeks ago. But I can't go. Because I have to work. And I feel super bad, missing this big day.

I think what people don't realize is, I don't get a lot of time off of work. And when I can manage some time off, it's usually at a hefty price tag. Like pulling 2-48 shifts in a row, in one week! Because I average 100 hours a week at the hospital. And there's not a lot of flexibility in my schedule.

Seriously, I go to college full time and I work my internships. I also have to manage some time, during the week, to work at my paying job. So I miss a lot of things. Like my favorite cousin's baby shower, than a year later, her son's 1st birthday. I miss tons of birthday parties, weddings, and even a few holidays. But lots of people don't get it. My parents understand. But there have even been times when they don't.

My family happens to not be that understanding of it. Well, not my entire family. Just one side of my family. But whatever. I try. I try and make it back when I can. And soon, graduations are going to be in full swing. And I'm going to miss those too. Mostly because I have to work. And because I don't find out early enough. Before my schedules are made.

It's sad. Because I miss a lot of family events. But it's hard to work in "time off" for parties, when I'm pleading for "time off" for gigs. You know, the things that help pay my bills. So that's life. All I can do is try. And hope that people understand.

As for my cousin and his bride. I wish them a lifetime of happiness and love. I hope to get to meet Jennifer one day. She seems like a very nice girl. You know, from what I've heard. And I've made them a wedding present. Now to just get their address! ♫

Pit Stop in a Southern Kitchen

I don't know if I've ever mentioned this, but I LOVE Cookbooks. I've been collecting them for years. Yes, I said years. I especially like the old ones. I find them at Thrift stores and yard sales. But I also go browsing through the bookstore for some fun new ones.

This is one that I recently got as a gift. Yes, it's my favorite cookbook ever! Because Martha and Carol have both included family recipes, and family stories. It's a nice book to just curl up and read. Isn't that weird? That I like to sit and read cookbooks.

Anyway, there are so many recipes that I want to try. I've made a few of the recipes. And they are so yummy! Maybe it's just because I LOVE Southern Food. But this is a really good buy! Run out and get yourself a copy. I promise that you won't be disappointed. ♫

Sign, Seeled, Delivered

The BBs (the band I'm in) and I signed contracts today. Looks like we're headed to Sin City (Las Vegas) next week. It's pretty exciting! Not only do I get to work, and hello, make some money! But I get to spend time with my friends. And enjoy some fun events. Hello, Sin City! I'm ready for you. I hope you're ready for the BBs!

My boss, Daddy Warbucks, is very excited. He's already buying some of my costumes for these shows. Makes me laugh! But my friend who works for him, she's been on buying trips for weeks already. I guess DW just knew we were going to say yes to this gig!

But I'm really excited. We always have a lot of fun going to Sin City. My favorite things to do while I'm there...they include the lush suite I always get, the mini wedding cakes, and the outlet shopping. I'm not much of a gambler or drinker. But we have a lot of fun! Now, I can't wait to get to work! ♫

Domestic Goddess?

Tonight was my only night off of work. And I spent it cooking and baking. You would think I'm "Little Sally Homemaker." I baked my Nanie's famous bread. I'm so glad that I begged and begged for that recipe years ago. Then I made caldito. And I even baked a chocolate cake. Can you tell? I was hungry when I started!

Now, I have all this food. And I'm not hungry! Not at all! I'm not sure what I'm going to do. I'm so nervous. I still haven't heard about my Auntie. And quite frankly, I have way too much energy right now. I might just go to the gym. At least that way, I can burn some of that energy off. With any luck, Steve my trainer will be there. And he can put me through heck and back!

Yes, I'm going to leave my comfy home, with this yummy meal, to workout. And yes, I'm hoping Steve is there. Not something I say a lot. Because I usually hate going to the gym. I workout every single day. And he puts me through heck and back! Running, lifting weights, the whole works. Let's not even talk about if I'm late or I miss a day. But right now, that's what I need. A good workout. ♫

Please Pray

Today Auntie Ronnie was taken to the hospital. I don't really know what's going on. I just know that is where she is. My parents didn't know a whole lot either. But it sounds like to me that she had a stroke.

I'm asking for some prayers for her. Remember her when you're saying you bedtime prayers. Or if you just have a spare minute. Behind my Auntie C, my Auntie Ronnie is the closest Aunt that I have. I remember so many great memories of her and my Uncle John. They lived next door to us when I was young. And we we're close. I can tell you about all the silly things she does. And how every single morning, Jonathon and I would get a waffle floating in syrup. Yes, I LOVE spending time with her. :)

I just can't bare to lose another family member. It's getting a little crazy in my family. So please pray for my Auntie. I know that no matter what, she is going to have a long recovery in her future. Please keep her in your prayers. ♫

I Missed My Kiddos!

For as much as I enjoyed the last few days off of work, I missed my kiddos! I LOVE working in PEDS. Especially in the NICU and PICU. This is where I belong. Here, taking care of the kids. Working hard. And making them feel better.

When I got here today, I was met with all kinds of love. My kids asking me where I had been Why I had been gone so long. And lots of great big bear hugs! You see, when you work in these units, you get to be very close to your patients.

I'm just happy to be back. I know I was put on this earth to love and take care of people. And until I meet "The One" and have a few kids of my own, I have an entire group of kids to love in PEDS. So if you excuse me, I've got some amis to make for my new kids. And I've got some charts to look at. Because it's my job to make sure they are getting better. And that they're growing! ♫

Happy Easter!

Happy Easter! Today is such a beautiful day. I'm excited to see the sun starting to rise. And I just can't believe how lucky we are. Jesus has risen today. He gave his life for us. And today, he has risen. You can't deny his love for us.

And I also can't deny my love for my family and friends. I hope everyone has an amazing day! Because I have to be on the road soon, we had our big Easter dinner last night. But I'm still glad that I get to spend some time with my family. And hopefully I get to see my Nanie today. She came back last night.

Stay safe and have a very Happy Easter! Don't forget to stop and thank our Dear Lord for everything he's given to us. And make sure to tell your loved ones how much you love them. ♫

Too Fast!

The weekend has gone by so fast! I still can't believe it. It's almost time for me to leave. Yesterday, we got here. I drove my car because I need to leave straight from here tomorrow. I have a 6 hour trip tomorrow morning. But I don't mind. I was actually about 30 minutes ahead of my parents. Which turned out to be a good thing. I got here before them, and I got to sit and talk to my Tatie. Turns out Nanie was out of town.

But Tatie and I sat and talked for a good 90 minutes. About all kinds of things. We just caught up. Talking like the old days. I always enjoy hearing the stories my Tatie has to tell. We fed the animals and sat with Tiger (his cat.) Honestly, I enjoyed that the most. Just sitting there talking.

Over the last 2 days, I've managed to do a lot of cooking and baking. And I mean a lot! The food always tastes so yummy here. I've already made 2 cakes. :) My mom has been cooking breakfast, and I'm doing the rest. And we've been crafting a lot! I finally made Mi Princesa's purple tutu. And I've been working on baby stuff. The blanket for my best friend. And some baby sweaters. But I've really enjoyed it!

Tonight, my Mom and I went through a bunch of my old stuff. Lots of my things from my childhood are here. So we went through boxes of toys, books, and clothes. And we laughed so hard! But it was nice to go down "Memory Lane." My mom even gave me one of her old dresses. I'm going to wear it for an upcoming gig. :)

I definitely needed this. I only wish that I could stay longer. I just want to sit outside, under the trees, and read. I wish I could spend a month here! I honestly feel so much better. And I haven't even been here for 24 hours. I guess I just missed coming here. When I was young, we'd come almost every single weekend. But, I'm just grateful for the chance to come out here. To spend time with my grandparents. And to breathe some fresh air. ♫

Friday Fill In #2

I just can't believe how fast this week is going by. It is really making me sad. Because I just want to stay here for a month. In the mountains. Like I used to when I was little. But I guess at some point, we grow up. And assume responsibilities. But I will enjoy my time here. So here are my Friday Fill-Ins. Happy Friday!

1. All you need is love.

2. 'Ol Blue Eyes fills me with laughter.

3. Each generation, as it grows up, leaves more of it's history behind.

4. Confrontation is something I have a hard time dealing with.

5. A trip to a tropical paradise is what I need.

6. You give, and you get back.

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to reading my new book, tomorrow my plans include relaxing in the mountains and Sunday, I want to eat a yummy Easter dinner! ♫

Sacrifice

Well, today we're headed to the mountains. I'm so excited! I honestly can't wait to see my Nanie and Tatie. I'm anxious to get to the mountains. And I'm ready to just relax. Most of all, I'm just ready to spend time with my family.

But today I want to talk about Lent. And about the sacrifices we make for Lent. I was someone who would give up all meat, chocolate, and nuts during Lent. Pretty much, I couldn't eat a thing! But I felt like my sacrifices were necessary. And well thought out. Until 2 years ago. When I found out I was severely anemic. It couldn't have happened at a worse time...2 days before Lent. What was I going to do?

So I talked to my priest. And he told me to look at Lent as a time to not sacrifice things...like material objects or food. But to sacrifice my time to do things that would better other people's lives. So I thought for a minute, and I realized what I was going to do.

I started crocheting for charity. This year, I decided to make 2 amis for every day in Lent, and 1 child sized hat. That's 80 amis, and 40 hats. Totally doable. I also decided to go to church more. I go to mass every Sunday. Even though I work on Sundays, I go to the Chapel service at the hospital. I also go on Wednesday afternoons. We have a lunchtime service. And on Tuesday and Thursday nights, I go to mass. Which is fun, because I get to see all of my friends. And 3 of my Goddaughters. :) But I've also made it a point to go on Friday evenings during Lent. We pray the Stations of the Cross.

This year, I totally exceeded my expectations. I made 100 amis, 50 hats, and 10 small blankets. I donated them to the PEDS unit, at a hospital in my hometown. It felt good. So many kids got a new toy to love. And the small sacrifice of time, well it was completely worth it! I even finished early. Before Easter. So I felt especially good.

Do I still wish I could fast during Lent? Yes. I had been doing it since I was 11 years old. But I found a new way to sacrifice, but still give back. Father R is such a special guy. I'm glad that he's our priest. And that God put him in my path. Honestly, I enjoyed having dinner at church. They would feed us after mass on Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday nights. Nothing big, just veggie caldito and bread. But it was special.

In the end, the last few years have made me feel really good about myself. I realize now that it's really easy to make someone else smile. And Lent is about more than just personal sacrifice. It's about growing as a person. It's about reconnecting with God. And doing good in the world. ♫

One Ball Ruffled Blankie

Don't you just love this baby blanket? Well, my best friend is expecting her 1st baby! She's due in October. And I'm getting anxious. I want to start making her some stuff for her baby. I've actually been doing a lot of crocheting lately. Tons of people I know are having babies. Both S and M recently had twins. And there is a slew of people that I know having babies! So I've been crocheting a lot!

But I want to make very special things for my best friend. I'm going to be the baby's Godmother too! But obviously, she doesn't know if the baby is a boy or girl yet. So I'm thinking of making this blanket. But making it white. I think it will be too cute! And honestly, I'm just ready to start crochet for this new baby.

Now all I need to do is get to the store. I want to make a white blanket. Actually, I want to try and make her a blanket of every color. Oh, I can't wait! Too bad she lives across the country. But oh well. I'm going to spoil this baby to no end! My best friend and I have been friends since we were 5 years old! So this is so special. ♫