The Blog Around the Corner

20 Things To Love About Fall

2010-10-21T18:54:00.000-07:00

I stole this idea from another blog but I have never made a secret of the fact that this is my favorite time of year. Seemed like a good time to return to the blog world and it would give me time to plan a real post!

1. Pumpkin Spice Lattes at Starbucks
2. Bonfires
3. Roasted Marshmallows...black on the outside and gooey on the inside...scrumptious
4. Hayrides
5. The Nut Club Fall Festival
6. Carving pumpkins
7. Picking Apples
8. Sweet Cinnamon Pumpkin Candle from Bath and Body Works
9. Costume Parties
10. Small town trick-or-treating...the way it used to be
11. Combines in the cornfield
12. Caramel Apples
13. Fall displays in front yards
14. Falling leaves
15. Crisp morning air
16. Family photos (a new Fletcher tradition!)
17. Fuzzy throws
18. Warm Apple Pie
19. Reading a book on a Saturday afternoon
20. Scarecrows

Salad Anyone?

2010-04-17T18:22:00.000-07:00

I love a good salad. There are restaurants I eat at for the food and restaurants I eat at for the salad. For instance, we don't eat there often but the Bisteca Insalata at Brios is AWESOME. A yummy lettuce wedge with Gorgonzola, tomatoes, bacon makes my mouth water. This is gross but I can almost drink the ranch dressing at Outback. I LOVE salad. All that to say I was excited to get this months issue of Real Simple magazine and see their recipe for Creamy Parmesan dressing. Carrabba's house salad with this dressing is one of my faves. It is one of the aforementioned restaurants I eat at for the salad, not the food. So, imagine my surprise when the dressing turned out to be thisclose to the real deal. I hesitate to say that it is identical because if you try it and don't like it, I don't want to be called a big fat liar. On the other hand, if you like it, I will feel free to say "Told you so!"

Creamy Parmesan Dressing
1/2 c olive oil
1/2 c grated Parmesan
1/4 c sour cream
2 tbls white wine vinegar
kosher salt and black pepper

Whisk together in a small bowl and enjoy!

Emma Grace's Nursery

2010-04-15T21:26:00.000-07:00

Here is a snapshot of Emma's Nursery. Some of the pieces (crib, fabric, paint) are exact. The others are not. Enjoy!

Can it be?

2010-02-25T18:46:00.000-08:00

Can it be that I actually have readers? I do believe so! Ha ha! Actually, I have several readers who refuse to comment so that shouldn't really surprise me. I don't have much to add tonight but I have to share something that I just can't keep in.

Publix has strawberries this week 3 for $5.00!

I know you are wondering why I'm so excited. I haven't really documented it but I have been very lucky in this pregnancy in that my cravings are simple. Fruit, Fruit, Fruit, and more specifically, STRAWBERRIES! I can easily knock out a regular container in a sitting and I must admit, I have been known to eat one of the larger containers in a day. So imagine my excitement when I got my flyer in the mail and that was on the back! When I went last week, they were out so you better believe I'm going to be getting my share this week. If you frequent the same Publix I do, you had better beat me there. There might not be any strawberries left!

I'm sorry.....No I'm Not!

2010-02-24T18:54:00.000-08:00

I could apologize (again) for being a bad blogger....but I won't. I'm tired of apologizing so I'm just going to stop. Apologizing that is.

Things are going well around the Garrison Homestead. We have been watching the Olympics almost every night. I don't know if it is just my imagination but they seem to be better this year. The other thing, that might be in my imagination is that there seem to be a lot more crashes, falls, and wrecks then usual. Some of it can be attributed to the host nations trying to out do one another (at least that's what the article I read said) but some of it, such as the ice skating, I can't figure out. Anyway, we have really been enjoying ourselves.

In Baby Benji news, we have have no news. I guess no news is good news? A few weeks ago, we had a little scare but all is well. The baby (and mommy) checked out fine so after two days off my feet, it was back to work as usual. I have my next appointment on Tuesday and then I'm hoping (with my fingers, toes, legs, arms and eyeballs crossed) that we will find out what we are having at the next appointment. At this point, Ben would insert that he knows what we are having....a baby! He's so funny. I must have married him for his sense of humor! :)

Baby's New Ride

2010-02-06T19:08:00.000-08:00

We were at the Galleria today and when Joey and Jamie pointed it out, I just had to have it. Apparently Mom and Dad felt the same way because they told me they would get it for us. I can't wait to use it! Thanks Mom and Dad! Your Little Wildcat is so excited:)

The Longest Nine Months of My Life

2010-01-31T17:22:00.000-08:00

I don't mean to be an absent blogger. I promise...I really don't. I just don't think about blogging until I'm at work or I'll be driving down the road and think "Oh! I need to blog about that." And then the moment passes and I move on to something else. I'm sure you will all forgive me. I've been a little preoccupied:

It's our little peanut! I don't what else to call the baby because that it what it looks like. This ultrasound was done at almost 9 weeks and it is amazing to me that you can see little feet and arm "buds".....he/she is already the most beautiful baby ever! We are both so excited and can't wait. My due date is August 21st which seems like an eternity x2. So far, the pregnancy is going well. I haven't had any morning sickness; just a little gagging here and there (which I did before I was pregnant). I am having some sugar issues but that seems to be under control. I have lost 21lbs just from changing what I'm eating. Currently, Baby G's favorite food is strawberries. I could eat them 24/7.

A funny story: As Stentsen put it, Ben told me I was pregnant. I had decided to take a test but I was tired of forking out the big bucks for the digital tests. I bought the cheapy Walmart brand test and brought it home. After I took the test, it didn't seem to be working so I left it on the bathroom sink and forgot about it. I must have knocked it off in the floor because later that night, Ben brought me the test and asked me if I had looked at it. I told him it was a dud; just to throw it away. He said "no, I really think you ought to look at it." I just insisted he throw it away. Finally he brought it to me and I saw the pink plus sign.

Well, I was in shock. Even though it was about 10:30pm, I told Ben he had to go to Walmart and get a digital test. He was more than happy to oblige!

This is what we ended up with. I needed proof. After the third test I felt more confident:). Kim said after the first one it wasn't going to change but I couldn't help myself. The third test was some kind of compulsion. I really, really, couldn't help myself!

There you have it. That's our news. We couldn't be happier!

Merry Christmas, Happy New Year, Yada, Yada, Yada!

2010-01-05T19:10:00.000-08:00

Yikes! It's been a month since I blogged. That is becoming the norm instead of the exception to the rule. We had a wonderful holiday season; we always do so that it nothing new. We had Ben's company Christmas party, our class party at Jenny and Ryan's, Christmas with my mom's family in Nashville, not to mention our 5 year anniversary. It was certainly a busy couple of weeks but well worth it.

We headed to Ben's mom and dad's for Christmas Eve and then we spent Christmas day at home. We always spent the day at home when I was growing up and I like the time to reflect on the past year. We spend all of our days and nights running from here to there and everywhere so it's nice one day out of the year to stop and just enjoy our time with each other.

Ben was on call Christmas weekend so we waited until the Monday after Christmas to head to Kentucky. We spent another quiet week with my family, just hanging out, playing with the Wii (I wish I had pictures of dad and Meredith Cow racing!), and playing rummy. All in all, it was a perfect Christmas. Sure, the gifts were great, but the time with my sweet husband and my family was priceless!

I'm not even sure if anyone reads this anymore, but if you do, I hope you were able to take some time with your family and you got to savor a few special moments with your loved ones. Happy 2010!

It's beginning to Look A Lot Like Christmas...

2009-12-05T14:18:00.001-08:00

Our Busy Weekend

2009-11-24T18:55:00.001-08:00

This weekend was busy, busy, busy. But after the week I had, what could you expect. The “fun” started Tuesday morning when I ran out of the house on my way to work. As usual, I was cutting it close. The night before, I had taken off my wedding rings and watch and laid them on the entertainment center. I do two things IMMEDIATLY when I walk in the door from work; 1. kick off my shoes, and 2. take off my jewelry. This means that there is always a pile of shoes by our front door and my jewelry is sometimes not in the same place. I really do try but sometimes I slip up. Monday evening was one of those times. So anyway, I put my rings on my watchband and off I went. Tuesday as I was leaving I grabbed them and left the house. Somewhere between downtown and work I realized that I don’t remember doing anything with them once I got in the car. Panic ensues. I am trying to dig through my purse while driving down 280. Not good. I get to work and spend 10 minutes looking once I get to the parking garage. Nothing. Nada. Zilch. I called Ben and he is none to happy with me but he isn’t able to go to the house so, I go to plan B. Call Kim. Well, really, I text Kim. I mean, surely she has nothing better to do but go to my house and find my rings for me. Thankfully, she did just that. Whew.

Wednesday during lunch, I’m admiring my wonderful ring now safely on my finger and I realize that one of the prongs is broken. ARE YOU KIDDING ME? Could this week get in worse? WEEEEELLLLL, let’s flash forward to 5pm. I’m standing at the copier and think “You know what would be a great idea? I’m going to remove this staple out of this piece of paper with my teeth.” Yeah, not really the best idea. I chipped a little piece off my tooth. GRRRRRRRRRR……….

Thankfully, Thursday and Friday were uneventful because Saturday was chaos! I had to be at the dentist at 7am. Ben made me write 100 times….”I will not remove staples with my teeth:).” Then we went to breakfast and I had to run by the store. We took my ring to the Jewelers. Those of you from Birmingham may be familiar with Levy’s Fine Jeweler. You know, Rhoda? I got to see Rhoda. I was so excited it was pitiful. Then we took my car to get washed and THEN ran by the store. I was exhausted and it was only 10:30. That afternoon we had a baby shower for Jenny at Katie’s house. It was great. She got some really cute things….even if she is taking her baby boy home in a dress!!!!!!!

After the shower, Kim FORCED me to see Twilight; New Moon. I mean, I REALLY did not want to go. That movie is just so juvenile but since she wanted to, I tagged along. Ok, actually I was the one dying to go. It was great! Those books/movies just pull me in like the other millions of women around the world.

If you made it to the end, thanks for hanging in there. Happy Thanksgiving to everyone!

Vintage Kitchen Prints On A Budget

2009-11-17T18:07:00.000-08:00

I thought I would join Kimba's DIY Day. This is the first time I have so I hope it works!

I've been wanting to post this project so I thought this would be the perfect excuse. I have one decent wall in our kitchen and I was trying to figure out what kind of "art" I wanted in the room. Before, I had a big clock but I wanted something different. I had priced some vintage prints but they were going to cost me a minimum of $10 to $15 (before the frame). So, when I found this book at Barnes and Noble for $14.98, a light bulb went on (picture a little light bulb over my head here!)

The book was full of lovely prints like these and a few that I decided not to use now but might have a future use for.

I found these frames on clearance at Walmart for $2.00 each. A word to the wise: the next time you think the price is too good to be true, it probably is. I should have waited and spent a bit more on the frame but, oh well. These will work for now.

And Voila'! These are perfect for now and I love the fact that some of the prints are items I use A LOT of (one being the garlic print). All in all, I spent around $33 for the whole project. Thanks for checking out my project and check out the other DIY projects at Kimba's if you have a few minutes.

Fall Days

2009-11-07T16:47:00.000-08:00

Last night I headed to Nashville to spend today with my mom, Grandma, and Aunt Avo. My Uncle Mike was doing a craft show and I am always up for a good craft show. The problem I have now is I walk around and instead of enjoying the show, I spend my time trying to figure out how the stuff is made or thinking "I could do that." I THINK I could do that but I never quite get around to actually doing it! I am pledging to myself that I am going to start doing more.

The craft show was great. I got a couple of Christmas gifts and a very cute stocking holder. I had a wonderful day with my momma (and family). The only thing that would have made it better would have been if Mere had been there. I missed you baby sister!

Camera Status- FIXED!

2009-10-25T19:30:00.000-07:00

Yay! I FINALLY made myself sit down and work on fixing our camera software. It was an easy fix but one I put off. If I had known how easy it was going to be, I would have done it last weekend. I apologize before hand for all the pictures, but I have some things I want to show you!

Ok, so I will be the first to admit that I don't really know anything about Sponge Bob. I think I MAY have seen a portion of one episode...would it be bad to admit that Ben was the one watching it? Anyway, when one of the ladies I work with asked me if I could do a Sponge Bob cake, I said "Sure, of course." I had to go right to work trying to find pictures because didn't have a clue how to do a Sponge Bob cake! While I don't want to become known as the Sponge Bob cake lady, I have to say that this is one of my favorite cakes I have ever done. I love it!

Last weekend we went to mom and dad's. They were having everyone from church over for a chili supper. We were SUPPOSED to have a bonfire which , besides the great company and seeing my family, was the #1 reason I went but it was too windy so dad nixed the fire. I had a wonderful time; I got to spend most of Saturday with two of my favorite guys (Ben and my brother, Joey) and then, I left Joey to babysit Ben while I went and did a little Christmas shopping. On the way out to mom and dad's for the party, I picked up my grandma Fletcher. It was great having her to myself for a few minutes. She enjoyed seeing some of her family and friends at the supper and it was good for her to get out. This is a picture of the field next to the house. This is also the reason I think it is a sin to sell cornstalks for $6.00 a bundle and up. Next year, I am going to be selling cornstalks out of my front yard and they aren't going to cost me a penny!

Finally, I have several projects I want to show you but this is one of my favorite. I love these little guys. I got my idea here but check out these cute tomato cage ghosts. Aren't they adorable? And SEW easy! (hehe). Actually, no sewing necessary on this one. I might sew them someday but these are just hot glued. What a cute idea to do one for each of your kids maybe? I didn't go into as much detail but I was going for quick and easy.

Ok, so that's it for now. I have more but one thing at a time. We are getting ready for Halloween. Trick or Trunk is coming up. Anyone got any great costume ideas they want to share?

FYI and DIY

2009-10-10T20:45:00.001-07:00

I know that I have said it many times before and it won't suprise any of you to know that Fall is my favorite time of the year. Not only does it mean that I get to bring out my scarecrow and pumpkins, and leaves, it also makes me want to redecorate. I have been busy the last couple of weeks. We have finished our kitchen (still no curtain on the back door) and I have done a couple of projects including some "art" for the kitchen and a lamp for my bedroom. I had a couple of days off from work and I did a little "mini" makeover in our bedroom. I would love to show it to you, but I can't. Yep, your heard me right. Our camera has decided not to work so I can't upload the pictures. I am going to try to get it fixed soon so stay tuned. I have a couple of other things I am working on too so you might seem them soon as well!

Our Weekend

2009-09-14T05:37:00.000-07:00

We had a wonderful, slow weekend. We mainly worked some around the house and just relaxed. We don't do that very often so it was nice for a change. Saturday night, I put together my new wreath for the front door. It still needs a little "something" - I haven't decided what exactly but I'm working on it:). I got the idea from The Nester; this is my new favorite blog! I love her ideas and her philosophy on home.

Blog Hopping

2009-09-11T21:25:00.000-07:00

Since I've been away from Blog-land for a while, I have spent the last couple of evenings hopping from blog, to blog, to blog. Let me just say, I have found some that I LOVE with a capital L! For instance, why can't I find the stuff that Thrifty Decor Chic is finding at Goodwill? Maybe it is because I'm not going to Goodwill. Oh, yeah. Note to self: Put visiting Goodwill on top of "To Do" list!

Baa Baa Black Sheep

2009-09-09T20:30:00.000-07:00

I LOVE LOVE LOVE Fall and even Halloween. Not the demons, haunted house, nightmare Halloweens but the caramel covered apple, weenie roast, hayride, trick-or-treating type of Fall/Halloween.

I'm getting my scarecrow "Mike" out of the attic this weekend. We call him that because he wears an old pair of my dad's overalls. All of my dad's overalls are old but mom gave me these to keep dad from wearing them anymore. (They were THAT bad!) Ben says it is too early but I want to enjoy Mike along with the bales of hay, mums, and pumpkins for as long as possible.

Martha Stewart has some wonderful Halloween ideas and I love looking at the emails I get with costume ideas, etc. I had to send this one to my mom because she has something of an obsession with sheep. When she went to England, Ireland, and Scotland two years ago, I made fun of her because every other picture were sheep, all in some blurry form or another (She said they wouldn't stand still). I do love this though. How cute are they?

Thanks Teale!

2009-09-08T18:41:00.000-07:00

I owe Teale a great big THANK YOU for updating my blog. I was in need of a blog pick me up and this did the trick. How apropos as my mom would say that coffee is the focus of the design. I love this time of year and this is one of those reasons.....A Pumpkins Spice Latte from Starbucks!

Lots to say....

2009-09-05T20:36:00.000-07:00

A little birdie told me in not so many words that I was due a blog update. So, here goes nothing. It has been a couple of busy, busy weeks. I don't know where the time goes; one minute it is Monday morning and I'm heading to work and the next, I find myself in Friday evening traffic headed home.

Last weekend found me in the land that God smiles on....Kentucky! I spent a wonderful long weekend with (most) of the family. Ben had to stay back in Alabama because he was SUPPOSED to not be on call Labor Day weekend. Saturday we ran errands and went to Evansville. I always have to hit a few special places every time I'm home. Sunday we were able to go to Green Street to church; I was a little amused that I received two very nice cards in the mail from people telling me that they were glad to see a new face and they hoped I would visit again. I guess it isn't really their fault that they don't know who I am. Sunday afternoon, we headed to Aunt Dorothy and Uncle Billy's house for the auction. I was worried that I wasn't going to be able to afford anything but I got some wonderful pieces. I scored a piece of McCoy pottery for $5 and an AWESOME set of milk glass salt and pepper shakers. My favorite item was a piece of needlework done by Aunt Dorothy that has beautiful lemons on a dark green background. It looks amazing in my kitchen and I am so pleased.

Speaking of kitchen, I ordered the fabric for the chairs and the curtain. Unfortunately, it is going to take a couple of weeks for it to come in. I think the wait will be worth it though. I am extremely pleased with how it has turned out. I know you are thinking I should be....it has taken long enough! Anyway, we are planning on being pretty lazy for the rest of the weekend. I hope all of you have a great Labor Day weekend. Stay tuned for a new look......Coming soon!

Too Many Choices

2009-08-12T20:05:00.000-07:00

We FINALLY have our cabinet doors painted. Yes, we paid someone to paint them and no, I am not ashamed to admit it!!!! I just couldn't take it any more. Now that the doors are painted, it shouldn't be too long before we get them up. I just want to make sure they are good and dry. Now, I need to pick out fabric for a curtain for the back door and fabric for the seats. I know you all are thinking "just finish it already" but these are important decisions! I'm thinking about the stripe for the chairs (if not the brown then a black and linen version that is identical). There are just so many options.....

The Blogger Blues

2009-08-09T14:39:00.000-07:00

I haven't had much to say recently. Ok, well those of you who know me well know I ALWAYS have something to say. For a week or so, I wasn't able to blog. We had a killer virus on our laptop and decided to spring for a new one. Now, we are up and running and I'm loving the new computer.

On the kitchen front, we are STILL not finished. Yes, you heard it. We are still not finished. We finally decided to pay someone to paint the doors so once that is complete, we will be finished. YIPEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!!!!!!!! I'm surprised you can't hear the screams from wherever you are reading this. At this point, I'm just ready to move on to other projects.....of which there are more than enough to keep me busy.

Friday night, we went to Allison's graduation party. She graduated from the UAB school of nursing. It was nice to see them and we had a good time. Ben actually beat me home which never happens. Saturday, Katie, Emily and I went to the Ladies Day at Ashville Road Church of Christ. The speaker was Cindy Colley and her daughter Hannah, who spoke for the teens. The lessons were excellent and it has me excited for our Ladies Day coming up on September 19th. I hope that those of you who read the blog and live close will come. Last years was great and I know that this years will be just as good. Our theme is "Bloom Where you are Planted."

Well, yesterday afternoon, Ben and I went to see Harry Potter. He is a HUGE HP fan and I have to say the movie was pretty good.

That's it for now. My office is moving to the old HealthSouth building tomorrow. I'm not looking forward to the traffic but maybe the space will be a little better. I hope everyone is having a wonderful summer. I'm ready for fall....how about ya'll?

Happy (Belated) 4th of July!

2009-07-05T21:02:00.000-07:00

We were out of town this weekend and had a wonderful time. I hope all of you have a great Fourth with your family and friends like we did. (I took this picture at Pearl Harbor).

Yard Sale Mania

2009-06-22T18:14:00.000-07:00

Things at the Garrison household are the same as usual....busy, busy, busy! This past weekend we had a yard sale at our house. Kim, Katie, Jenny (from her sickbed!) and Mom, Meredith, and Joey all brought or sent their wares to our house. Dad built us a couple of great racks for hanging clothes and we set everything up early Saturday A.M. We had a pretty good day and all made a little money. Personally, I think it is too much work for what we made so from now on, I think I'll stick to the Hannah Home!

Other than that, not much going on. Work is work and things at home are not much different. No, the kitchen is STILL not finished. Well, it is pretty much finished except for the last couple of coats of paint on the cabinet doors. Even though we haven't finished our last project, we have our next project waiting on us. When we were getting stuff down from the attic for the yard sale, we had a little "mis-step" and now we have a hole the size of a foot in our ceiling in the attic. Needless to say, we will be drywalling the hallway next. Oh, well. That's the way it goes. Anyway, sorry there haven't been many updates recently.

Superman!

2009-05-31T15:00:00.000-07:00

Here is the superman cake I did for one of the women at work. It was her son's 9th birthday and this was his request.

About Me

2009-05-25T19:29:00.000-07:00

My work: I work for Virginia College as an Associate Registrar (but most of you already know that). My dream job: well I have a couple of ideas but doubt they will ever come to fruition. I would love to run a little soup and sandwich place similar to one back home. Catering is always an option. And then, you have the "craft thing." I don't think there is a job called "craft person."

My passion: I don't know if I've found it yet.

What keeps me awake at night: The fear that I am drifting through life without making any type of impact.

The most important thing I ever lost: To be honest, I can't think of anything.

My blogs: http://rachelgcakes.blogspot.com/ and http://rgarrison@blogspot.com

I'm thinking about: My kitchen...24/7. It needs to be finished already!!!!!!

I'd like to learn to: Smock. Add it to my repertoire!

My grandma always said: Did you wash your hands? I'm a big believer hand washing to this day!

My first job: I worked at the Sebree Dairy Bar. Making sundaes, milkshakes and serving burgers. Whoo Hoo!

At the end of a long day, the first thing I want to do is: take off my shoes and jewelery. I always do these two things as soon as I walk in the door.

I wish: To become more of the person my mother thinks I am.

Craigslist Score!!!!!

2009-05-23T14:59:00.000-07:00

Once we finish our never ending kitchen redo, we (and I use that term loosely) are planning on putting a small deck outside our kitchen. I found this goody yesterday and picked it up today. Yippee!

(Please ignore the sad picture. It was raining so this was taken through the kitchen window. And, this is not the permanent home. Just a place to crash for a while!)

Catch-up, Catch-all

2009-04-25T15:43:00.000-07:00

I know it has been a LONG time since I blogged. Believe it or not, Ben frequently reminds me of this. We have been so busy that I just have not had time to do much of anything. By now, I'm sure most of you know that we have been redoing our kitchen. It's not finished but already looks like a whole new house. Probably because everything that was in the kitchen is now in the rest of the house and you can't even see the house for all the stuff stacked everywhere. I'm hoping to do a blog post soon showing the finished result. Now, keep in mind, that involves finding my camera charger in all these boxes but I think I can do it! I don't want to say too much but I will tell you that there has been a lot of paint involved. I don't mind painting but even I will be glad when it is finished. We are getting a new floor on Thursday (THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU) and after that, we are in the homeward stretch.

Other than that, not a lot else going on. The book club is still meeting and I think everyone is enjoying it. We have read a couple of good books and this months is no different. We are reading "The Lucky One" by Nicholas Sparks. I know a couple of you have expressed some interest so feel free to head to the library and get started. We would love to have you. That's about it. I need to go check on some paint thats drying so I had better run. I hope you all have a good weekend and enjoy the weather!

Updates and Book Club Meeting

2009-02-22T22:07:00.000-08:00

I know that I am far behind on my blog but like most of you, I have been pretty busy these last couple of weeks. I still need to post about my birthday celebration. It was a wonderful weekend and there is a picture I know you all would LOVE to see! I got to spend it with my favorite people so it was very special.

For those of you who don't know, I am now employed! I am an associate registrar with Virginia College Online and so far, it is going great. I have been there two weeks and the people I work with are great. *Note: I just read this and realized I used "great" twice but it is great. So make that three times. What else can I say?

Yesterday, Ben and I went to Muscle Shoals and I am now the proud owner of a new embroidery machine. I played with it some last night and a little this afternoon. I think I am really going to enjoy it but it is certainly going to take some practice!

For those of you who are a part of the book club, don't forget that we are meeting at my house tomorrow night at seven. I am doing fruit and dessert so don't forget to eat supper before you come. I don't want you to leave hungry! Well, that's it for now. It is way past my bedtime. Good thing I don't have to be at work until 9am! Good night for now:)

Candy Baskets for your Valentine!

2009-02-02T19:43:00.000-08:00

Katie, Jenny, and I are doing Candy baskets for Valentine's day. If you are interested in any of the ones below, you can email your order to candybasketorders@yahoo.com. Also, if there is something in particular you are looking for, let us know and we will see what we can do. I hope you like what you see!

Adult Baskets: $15
Child's Baskets-lg. $12
Child's Basket- sm. $7

Bumps and Bruises of the Elderly

2009-01-28T19:53:00.001-08:00

I just celebrated the big 3-0 (which I have SO much to blog about) but suffice it to say it was a great birthday. Of course in my advanced age, the body isn't what it once was. I took a nasty little fall on Monday and hurt my shoulder. I had been looking for a reason to make one of the buckwheat pillows that you put in the microwave and this gave me an excuse. Using some fabric I had bought for another project, I made me one tonight. I actually used rice instead (much cheaper option and works well according to internet research) and it seems to be working pretty well. The ole' shoulder is on the mend!

Book Club

2009-01-20T21:32:00.000-08:00

For those of you who are a part of the our book club, check out the blog link on the right. We have set a date for our first meeting.

Yummy Supper!

2009-01-20T21:23:00.000-08:00

This Lasagna Soup recipe was in Family Fun Magazine and I thought I would give it a try. If you like Lasagna, give it a go. Yummy!

Happy Birthday, Levi!

2009-01-19T08:19:00.000-08:00

Here is the activity tray I painted for Levi's birthday.

Fun Find

2009-01-14T09:46:00.000-08:00

I love to go to Pier One and look around. I was in Hoover the other day and saw where they were having a "big" sale so I went in to look around. I found this little gem for $9.99. It was on a table with a bunch of clearance stuff so I knew it was on sale. Imagine my surprise at the register when the cashier told me it was $2.16! Well, I just had to have it of course. Now, it won't impress some of you but it works for me. I am using my time being unemployed to be more frugal. This will hold my coupons and my grocery list all together and the fact that it is cute is just a plus!

Going in Circles

2009-01-11T19:02:00.000-08:00

I LOVE these tables. They absolutely go with nothing in my house and I wouldn't say they are my "style" but I still love them. Photo courtesy potterybarn.com

Playin' Catch-up

2009-01-09T08:38:00.000-08:00

I've been getting some flack from a few of my so-called "friends" so I thought I would do an update for the last month or so.

In my last post, I talked about our anniversary. Ben and I had a gift certificate to Ruth's Chris Steakhouse in Birmingham. We had a wonderful dinner and a great anniversary. On that Saturday, we had lunch with Ben's family and did Christmas. I made Brody some bibs and a changing pad. I'm still learning how to use my sewing machine but I was proud that I got them finished (even though I didn't finish the last one until right before we walked out the door!)

We had been having some car problems (which will be addressed later) so we borrowed Ben's moms minivan to take to Kentucky. I am not a minivan person, let me just tell you. We spent the next week at Mom and Dad's.

No, this is not my parent's house but mom and Meredith told me about this house and we had to do a drive-by on Christmas Eve. Even though they told me about it, words don't do it justice. You truly have to see it to believe it.

We had a great Christmas eve and day with family. We drove to Nashville Christmas Day to spend it with my mom's family. Since my grandpa passed away in October, my mom wanted to be with her mom on that day. It was nice. I think my favorite part was when Ben and my brother Joey went to get on the elevator at Aunt Sally's house and SHE COULDN'T FIND THE ELEVATOR. Yes, you read that right. She has an elevator in her house and it wasn't on the floor she thought so she went down to each floor until she found it in the basement and sent it up to Joey and Ben. My Aunt Sally is my grandma's sister. Her husband passed away a long time ago and she recently sold her house and built this huge place. It is more like a museum for her doll collections than anything but it was crazy. I was too scared to get on the elevator; I mean, does someone come to her house and check it out? I don't know but I wasn't trying it out. I think Ben and Joey had a good time though. Joey said he was moving to the basement; it's not like Aunt Sally would even know he was there!

The only down part to the holidays was the car situation. I had spoken to Kia hoping they would fix something that was an obvious flaw in the vehicle but they refused. After talking to Kent and my dad, we decided to trade it in as is. I didn't really want to get a new car right now but the fact was that if I kept driving the Kia, it was going to cost A LOT to repair it. So we found a used 2008 Altima. I am in love!

That's pretty much it for now. On the job front, I am hunting, hunting, hunting. To all of you reading this (all two of you) PRAY PRAY PRAY. I have applied for some that I am interested in and one that I am SUPER interested in. I'll keep you all updated. I hope all of you had a happy New Year and Best Wishes for a wonderful 2009.

Happy 4th Anniversary, Ben!

2008-12-17T20:52:00.000-08:00

Happy Anniversary Babe! Who would have thought by looking at the first picture we would ever have made it! I chalk that picture up to a bad case of nerves on BOTH our parts:) but look at us now. After seeing the last picture, I knew I had better snatch you up before someone else did. You have the uncanny ability to make me furious one minute and laughing hysterically the next. I could never imagine that I would find someone so patient nor did I ever imagine loving someone with my whole heart as I love you. I pray each and every day that we will spend our earthly lifetime together as well as eternity. Hugs and kisses-XOXOXO

Christmas Memories

2008-12-08T12:57:00.001-08:00

Today as I was unpacking our ornaments I couldn't help but remember certain things as I went through trying to determine which ones to hang on our tree. We have only been married for four years (as of next Thursday) but I had lived on my own for a couple of years and even in my little graduate student apartment I had a Christmas tree. On top of that, what is the number one gifts for a couple married in December? Christmas ornaments of course! As I was going through the boxes, I wanted to share some special ones with my faithful blog readers. Some of what is so special is not the ornament itself but the story behind it. Some are new, some are old. But they are all special.

At first glance, this looks like a simple red ball that you can buy by the dozen at any Dollar General. When I look at it, I see ornaments from my parents first Christmas tree as newlyweds. They were also married in December. Last year, our tree toppled over from the weight of all the ornaments and a couple of them broke but I still have several of them. And as long as I have them, they will always have a special place on our tree.
Ben will tell you that I love to collect nutcrackers. He can't stand them; he says they stare at him and it makes him uncomfortable. My collection is quickly growing. Ben buys me one each year even though he can't stand them.

We buy one special ornament a year. Well, sometimes more than one. This is our ornament for this year.

My Uncle Mike began making wooden Christmas ornaments several years ago. Snowflakes, horse drawn carriages, Birds, elves and more. This is the ornament he carved specially for Ben and I the year we got married.

I know this looks like a pink blob but most of you will recognize the Carebear. This ornament has to be more than 25 years old but every year, no matter what, it is nestled in among the lights and tinsel. My babysitter, Donna, made this ornament for me many moons ago. My brother Joey had a blue one and I had a pink one. My tree would never be complete without this ornament.

This was our ornament last year. Since it was the first year we went to the tree farm and cut down our tree, we figures it was only right that this be our "ornament of the year."

Our tree wouldn't be complete without this ornament from Hawaii. What a special trip and a wonderful time we had. Though the memories will never be forgotten, we can relive those days each year as we hang our little wooden flip flop on the tree!

There seems to be several ornaments from the year we got married but this one is special because it was a favor from our wedding. As I mentioned earlier, when you get married in December, loads of Christmas decorations are bound to follow. We gave these silver star cookie cutters away at our wedding. I'm sure no one but my mother kept them but I did. And each year, it goes on the tree front and center.

Last but not least, The Biltmore. America's largest home. My mom and I took a trip there in April and we had a wonderful time. Of course, I had to buy a Christmas ornament to remember it by.

Sorry for the long post. I hope you weren't too bored. I also hope you enjoyed a peek to into my Christmas memories.

O' Christmas Tree

2008-12-06T17:08:00.000-08:00

We went to Beaver's Christmas Tree farm today. This is the second year we have gone and it is always so much fun.

As soon as we pulled up, Ben found the perfect Tree. As Linus would say, it only needs some love Charlie Brown!

I wanted to take the hay ride to the top of the hill but of course, it was no where to be found so...

We hiked to the top, of course! But I did get to take the hayride to the bottom!

We finally found our tree but poor Ben had to fight to get it cut down. Between the cut on his hand from a run in with a knife in our dishwasher this week and the dud of a saw they gave him, he earned his "best hubby" award.

They tied the tree to our car and off we went. Here is our 2008 Norman Rockwell picture. Happy Holidays!

"Pet" Project

2008-12-04T19:44:00.000-08:00

Ben thinks it is crazy but I wanted to do stockings for the dogs. I know, I know; that IS crazy. Just appease me please. Anyway, I obviously didn't want to spend a lot of money. I looked at the Dollar Store and the Dollar Tree. The Dollar Tree actually had some cute ones but I had seen one online that I liked. Since I refused to spend the money on stockings for our dogs (even though I love Max and Zoe as much as you can love a dog) I decided to make them myself. I had the felt already. I was going to use it for something else but decided to make dog stockings instead. Anyway, they are just pinned but I will finish them maybe tomorrow and post the finished product then.

Long Overdue

2008-11-21T18:24:00.001-08:00

Well, by now, I am sure that most of you know that I am no longer working with Southern Patient Care. The what, when, where, and why of it all really doesn't matter (at least not to me). I thought I would be devastated but the sense of relief is unbelievable. I have learned that I am blessed to have wonderful friends who have been extremely encouraging and supportive. You are all so concerned for me and it is quite touching. Sometimes it is easy to feel like you don't really matter that much to people but then a conversation (or a text message) reminds you that you do matter to others.

I am planning on hitting the job hunting hard after Thanksgiving. Pray that something will come my way. I know God is looking over me and he will provide!

Holiday Give Away

2008-11-21T18:21:00.000-08:00

Check out Teale's blog. She is doing a give away for a Holiday Header. She has done the layout for two of my blogs and she does a great job. Check it out and enter the give away.

Creative Block

2008-11-06T08:10:00.000-08:00

I am not a creative person whatsoever. I am a creative copycat; I see what other people do and sometimes, I can recreate it fairly well. I got my craft tables put together (thanks, honey) and my sewing machine is out. I have bought fabrics and ribbons and buttons and snaps and clips galore but I can't find 5 spare minutes to sit down and actually work on any of it. My mind is full of other people's ideas and I can't find the time to do the things I want to do. It's a shame I can't turn all of these hobbies into something more. Argh.

Some Things Never Change, Obama

2008-11-05T12:48:00.000-08:00

You can always count on the American people to focus on the really important things even during historical times. I feel SO much better knowing this.

Twas' the Night Before Elections

2008-10-31T10:22:00.000-07:00

'Twas the night before elections

And all through the town

Tempers were flaring

Emotions all up and down!

I, in my bathrobe

With a cat in my lap

Had cut off the TV

Tired of political crap!

When all of a sudden

There arose such a noise

I peered out of my window

Saw Obama and his boys

They had come for my wallet

They wanted my pay

To give to the others

Who had not worked a day!

He snatched up my money

And quick as a wink

Jumped back on his bandwagon

As I gagged from the stink!

He then rallied his henchmen

Who were pulling his cart

I could tell they were out

To tear my country apart!

On Fannie, On Freddie,

On Biden and Ayers!

On Acorn, On Pelosi'

He screamed at the pairs!

They took off for his cause

And as he flew out of sight

I heard him laugh at the nation

Who wouldn't stand up and fight!

So I leave you to think

On this one final note-

IF YOU DON'T WANT SOCIALISM

GET OUT AND VOTE!!!

Fun Weekend With Family

2008-10-29T04:57:00.000-07:00

Funeral Information

2008-10-28T13:26:00.000-07:00

Your kindness has been overwhelming. Thank you to all of you. Several people have requested information regarding the funeral and I thought it would easiest to post it here. Visitation is being held from 3 to 8 on Wednesday and 10 to 1 on Thursday. The funeral is Thursday at 1 at the Hermitage Funeral Home in Old Hickory, TN. Ben and I are probably going to wait and drive up after work tomorrow night.

Thanks again to each and everyone of you. Your kindness and concern for our family is amazing.

Tuesday, October 28th

2008-10-28T06:57:00.001-07:00

Today is a strange day for me. The two items in this post are so opposite but they are about two special people in my life.

I want to first wish my best friend Kim a very happy 30th. I have never been one of those people who has a large group of friends but the ones I have are certainly the best I could ask for. Kim is not only my best friend but she is my family. I hope that she has the best 30th birthday that she could ever wish for.

On a sad note, my grandfather, Joe Powers, passed away early this morning. My grandfather had that deep rumbly voice that would carry across a football field. He was a good Christan man, father, husband, brother, brother-in-law. I am sad that he is gone but I am glad that his suffering is over. Please pray for my family but especially my grandmother. My grandparents have been married for 60 years and the idea of one without the other is hard to fathom. Thank you for all your prayers; I appreciate each and every one of you.

The Book Nook

2008-10-27T15:03:00.000-07:00

Thanks to everyone who said they would be interested in taking part in a book club. I have set up a separate blog (yes, another one) for those who are taking part. If you didn't respond to the first post, it's not too late!

Check out The Book Nook

Care to Join Me?

2008-10-23T08:08:00.000-07:00

I have been thinking about this for a while and after talking with a friend of mine from Freed-Hardeman, I was wondering if anyone would be interested in joining a book club? This is new to me so we would be learning as we go but I think it would be a wonderful opportunity. We could get together maybe once a month and meet during the week so that we still kept everyone's weekends free. If you would be interested, leave me a message and we will start planning our first selection. For all you mothers out there, this would be a good chance to get out of the house for an hour or so and enjoy some adult conversation and a cup of coffee with friends!

UPDATE*** Come on ladies. There are more of you than that out there that could join the book club. We have four right now and I am thinking we probably need at least two more. Also, if you have any suggestions for the first selection, let me know. I will try to come up with some this weekend and post on Monday.

Giveaway!

2008-10-22T08:42:00.000-07:00

I love to check out Laura's blog. She is very talented and I would LOVE to be able to sew like she does! To celebrate her birthday, she is having a giveaway. Now, I'm not thrilled about telling you guys about it because I REALLY want to win, but go here and check it out. How great is it that for her birthday, you could win something?

Welcome Josie!

2008-10-16T20:56:00.001-07:00

My good friend Jenn from my grad school days at Harding had her first baby, Josie Mae, Tuesday evening. I am so excited for her and I was making this wreath to go on the door at the hospital. I guess I am just a little late:( but I thought I would put it on here anyway. I have an idea to put her name on here but we will wait and see.

Photo of the Day

2008-10-15T20:41:00.000-07:00

They don't make too many appearances on the blog, but here is one of our babies. Ben thought that Zoe may have hurt her "shoulder" (turns out, Max bit her over a hushpuppie) so he brought her in to check her out. I was able to snap a couple of pictures of her-only while putting the camera on sports mode..."for subjects in action." She is certainly always in action. **Please ignore the pile of junk in the back. More stuff we are getting ride of-yippee!

Weekends Never Last Long Enough

2008-10-13T13:53:00.000-07:00

This weekend was another busy one for Ben and I. We are so thankful that Mary's transplant went so well; Kim has certainly had a lot on her plate recently so sweet Lila's birthday was up in the air until Friday. That being said, I went home Friday night and baked 6 dozen cupcakes. It was hard to keep Ben out of the kitchen but I managed. Saturday I headed to Nashville to visit with my Grandpa Powers. It is very hard to watch because the change is so great each time I visit with him. After I got home from Nashville Saturday night, it was back to the kitchen to decorate the cupcakes. They turned out quite well and I will try to post some pictures later. I also make this great pumpkin roll on Saturday to take to Nashville and the family raved over it! It is certainly a keeper. I should also mention that on Saturday, Ben went to play paintball with some friends. He tried to go once last year but he didn't even get to finish his breakfast before he got a page for work. This year, he was able to play most of the day and he had a great time.

Wheww...that's a lot already but that's not all. Sunday after church, I finished the BIG cupcake for Lila's party and then Ben and I went to eat at the Logan's in Fultondale. Ben will tell you that I usually refrain from any store resembling Best Buy BUT this was different. For Christmas, we are buying ourselves a flat screen for our bedroom so we decided to stop in and look around. Oh, it will be magnificent. I had always said no to a TV in the bedroom but, I have changed my mind. It will be bliss!!!!! After Lila's party, we went home, I took a nap, and then it was time for church.

On the organization/craft corner front, I cleaned out a dresser after church and I did buy a few more things for my project. Kim and I are heading to Atlanta this weekend to buy my desk and it will be on the downward slope from there.

To answer a question posed to me this weekend by someone (I won't name names but you know who you are: Yes, I am nesting....no I am not pregnant...nor do I plan on being so any time soon. I "nested" even when I was single. I think I was a born nester. Sorry to disappoint so many of you who were hoping it was something more!

Opposites Attract

2008-10-09T19:09:00.000-07:00

How do you know that you married your complete opposite? Tonight I was watching Grey's Anatomy and Ben was sitting in the room with me NOT watching Grey's. The Chief was going on about something and Ben grabs the remote, pauses the TV and says "It's like Leonard Nemoy said, the needs of the many out weigh the needs of the few."

HUH? WHO COMPARES GREY'S ANATOMY AND THE CHIEF TO LEONARD NEMOY? Are you serious? I mean, seriously?

I love him to death but we couldn't be more different!

Books, Books, Books

2008-10-07T18:07:00.000-07:00

Here are some pictures of the bookshelves we put up this weekend. I am sure you can't figure it out on your own, but just so there is no confusion, the Complete Works of Jane Austen is Ben's and the Autobiography of Slash is mine.

And yes, I was trying to put the books on the shelves by color which Ben thought was a sin against the book gods. Sorry, Ben. That's the way I wanted it. Harry Potter will live if all 7 or whatever number are not together in numerical order.

One Track Mind

2008-10-07T08:24:00.000-07:00

I apologize to those of you who may be bored to tears by the following post and by those to come at a later date. When I get started on a project, I am consumed to the point of obsession. It is a flaw of which I am well aware. Anyway, to satisfy my own need for all things "crafty," the following are some of my ideas for my craft corner.

**This chair is the perfect color.

I already have a couple of these boxes for my scrapbook paper. I love these jars. I want to be able to see everything!

My mom always had a huge jar of buttons. I don't know why but I just feel like buttons are a necessity! Those who have been in my kitchen will tell you that I do love the letter "R." I think I will start a new collection.

I want this!

2008-10-06T09:15:00.001-07:00

....minus the utility sink in the corner. Don't think I'll be adding one of those to the bedroom!

Weekend Bust...or was it?

2008-10-06T07:56:00.000-07:00

The craft show was an no-go this weekend. A few things came up and I decided to stay here. That being said, I realized I had no plans for Saturday which meant it was a great day to continue the Purgeapalooza at my house. As I mentioned earlier this week, I pulled a ton of stuff out of the front closet but I didn't actually start organizing it. It was more trash than anything. Ben hauled off my pile of junk for the camp yard sale (including one not to be named item that was not supposed to end up in the yard sale. Oh well). That left my living room floor clear to start work on the front closet. Before I did that, however, Kent came over and hung some long shelves in the bedroom that is soon to be my craft area. They look great!!!!! I can't believe that we still have books on the floor after that but we are just going to have to store them for now. I took some pictures that I will post later. I have recently realized that I am curtain challenged. I guess it was a money thing, but when I bought my house I made sure that all the rooms had blinds but I just didn't worry about the curtain issue. Now I am starting to realize that curtains are important. That being said, there is a large window in the bedroom in question that is naked. With all the bookshelves and soon to be desk on one side of the room, it is feeling a little heavy. I have a solution for that but I will let you in on that later.

Not a lot else going on here. I hope all of you had a wonderful weekend.

Adventures in Purging

2008-10-03T07:21:00.000-07:00

Happy Friday! I am so glad this weekend is here. I am an Equal Opportunity Weekend Lover but this weekend is special. The first weekend in October is the big craft show that I always attend with my mom. I am leaving after work today to make the 5 1/2 hour drive to the Bluegrass state. I can't wait!

I had thought about having a yard sale this weekend but I just couldn't miss the craft show. That being said, I am on a mission to rid my house of junk. Indian Creek Youth Camp was having a yard sale this weekend but there wasn't going to be anyone to take my stuff. Ben told me yesterday that if I would get the rest of it together, his dad would take it for me. SO, after I got home last night, I had a marathon clean out of the front closet. You would not BELIEVE the amount of stuff that was stashed in that closet (Poor Paul would because he came by the house and I thought he wasn't going to be able to get through the living room). Anyway, I now have a nice little BIG pile of junk that will be leaving the Garrison Household this evening. Yay for me!

I hope all of you have a great weekend. Tina, if you are reading this, I am still working on the monogram machine. I will keep you updated!

The Container Store Addiction

2008-10-01T12:05:00.000-07:00

After my post a couple of weekends ago about organizing the bathroom closet, I have been working on a few other projects. I found some furniture from Ikea and I will making a trip to Atlanta in a few weekends to buy the desks for my "craft corner." I have also purchased shelves to go in one of the spare bedrooms for all the books piled up everywhere. After looking around on the container store website, this caught my eye. Of course, it also caught my debit card and should be arriving on my doorstep in 5 to 10 business days. I think this is certainly the key to making or breaking my organized front closet. Don't you?

Blast from the Past!

2008-09-24T13:46:00.000-07:00

Look! It's Tracy from "Hairspray!"

Clutter Rules

2008-09-19T19:43:00.000-07:00

It is certainly not something to be proud of but cluttler rules at our house. When I bought our home before Ben and I were married, we had only been dating a couple of months and I certainly wasn't thinking marriage. Now, with all the hobbies, crafts and collectibles, we are slowing being pushed out of our house by all of the "stuff." I told Ben I couldn't stand it any longer so I decided to tackle the junk one thing at a time. I figured the bathroom closet would be the easiest to deal with so here are the results. Like I said, the before is nothing to be proud of but the after makes me excited and ready to tackle the next problem!

Oh and Ben wants to make sure that everyone knows that he only has one basket and the rest of them are mine!

Before: Yikes!
After: Yes!

Ladies Day, Sewing Class, Weekly Menu, and More!

2008-09-15T19:06:00.000-07:00

I haven't been keeping up with my blogging too much recently but here is a run down of the important "stuff:"

A week ago Saturday we had our first annual Ladies Day at Sylvan Springs. I would say that all in all, it was a HUGE success! We had 74 ladies who joined us and it was wonderful. The speaker did a FANTASTIC job. Of course, I'm not biased at all! In all seriousness, mom did a wonderful job and everyone commented on how good her lessons were. I can't say I was surprised but none the less, I was very proud of her. I am never surprised yet always impressed with how good she is at everything.:) Of course, she is my mom so I think she is perfect!

This past Saturday I took my first sewing class. I have done a little here and there with mom's help but this is my first solo project. I had to miss the first class because of the Ladies Day so I started out behind and stayed that way the entire class! Our project, pajama pants are coming along nicely. I will post pictures once I get a little farther along.

Hmmm...What else. Oh, yeah. I plan my menu each week (at least four or five meals). A few people have expressed some interest so here is our menu for this week:

Monday: Taco Pasta Shells *Yummy...we just finished supper
Tuesday: Autumn Turkey Tenderloins (I'm using chicken breast) w/ Butternut Squash
Wednesday: Minestrone Soup
Thursday: "PF Changs Fried Rice" (restaurant copy cat recipe)
Friday: Country Roasted Chicken

So, that's the menu for the week. All of these recipes except for the Fried Rice recipe came from the Taste of Home website. They have some great recipes so check it out when you can.

Meredith has updated her blog finally so take a minute to look at "My So Called Life." Finally, Ben wants me to tell everyone how wonderful he is. I think he feels left out since I have talked about mom and Mere in this post! I hope all of you have a great week!

Menu Planner

2008-09-02T12:22:00.000-07:00

I try to plan at least 5 meals for us during the week. It certainly makes the evenings less hectic and I don't have to go to the grocery store 6 or 7 times a week. Check out this cute menu planner. It is certainly cuter than a lot of other ones out there. Maybe it will inspire you to start planning your meals as well!

Sylvan Springs Church of Christ Ladies Day

2008-08-27T07:18:00.000-07:00

I am very excited to invite you to our first annual Sylvan Springs Church of Christ Ladies Day. Our speaker will be my mom, Donna Fletcher. I know she will do an excellent job and I am looking forward to hearing her. Our theme is "My Cup Overflows" and we have been working hard on making sure that this is a very successful event. Registration begins at 9am on Saturday, September 6th. Breakfast and lunch will be provided and as well as childcare.

This is a wonderful opportunity to spend time with your Sisters in Christ and to learn from one another. We all hope that each of you will be able to make it!

Cakes

2008-08-25T12:33:00.000-07:00

Many of you know that I took a Wilton Cake Decorating Class earlier this year. I really had a great time and it was even more fun because Erin was able to take it with me. Teale did a great blog for me so I could post my pictures. Check it out when you get a minute. I haven't gotten them all posted yet but I will be updating periodically.

Craft of The Month

2008-08-25T06:41:00.001-07:00

Here is a picture of the desk I made for sweet Hannah's 2nd Birthday. Happy Birthday Hannah!

Coming Soon To A Blog Near You!

2008-08-21T12:08:00.000-07:00

Once again, Teale has done an excellent job designing me a new blog background. I decided to have a blog dedicated to my cake decorating hobby. I should have it up by this weekend so check back soon!

Family Photos

2008-07-31T06:42:00.001-07:00

One of the things we did before my Grandma Fletcher's birthday party was family photographs. Click here to check them out. I am pretty pleased with them! These haven't been touched up but they are still good. Let me know what you think.

Note: The PW is Cathy08 if you need it.

Update

2008-07-30T08:37:00.000-07:00

I know it has been a while but I just haven't quite had the time nor the urge to update. However, since Emily told me it was time for an update, I knew it must be bad! The only thing that makes it even worse it that my MOM said it was time for an update.

It is hard to explain but there has been a lot going on but not really a lot going on? Does that make any sense at all? I think not. I guess it has been three weeks ago, but I went back to Searcy, AR to visit with my friend Jenn. She and her husband Charlie are expecting their first baby (sweet Josie) in October. I have not seen Jenn since our friend Carla got married THREE YEARS AGO. I can't believe it had been that long but we picked up right where we left off. I didn't get there until late Friday night but we talked and talked until about 2am and then we got up on Saturday and headed to Little Rock for some baby shopping and a little Chinese food. I really had a wonderful time; after the trip, I realized how much I missed Jenn. She has had a pretty rough pregnancy so far so traveling hasn't really been an option for her. I am hoping that after the baby comes, she will be able to come to Birmingham for a weekend. It was very odd being back in Searcy. I really thought I would never go back but all in all, it was great. I got a tall Mr. Blonde at Midnight Oil (No, not the nickname of my boyfriend) but a FANTASTIC coffee drink from this cool coffee shop off of campus. I've always said the only think I miss about Harding was Jenn and my Mr. Blonde from Midnight Oil!

Two weeks ago Ben and I headed to Kentucky for my Grandma Fletcher's surprise 75th birthday party. This was one of the few times that our whole family was able to be there. That would probably have something to do with the fact that Aunt Cathy made us all promise to be there over a year ago. We certainly had plenty of advance notice! The party really turned out well. Since grandma is a huge gardener, we went with a garden theme. The decorations turned out pretty cute and of course, I did the cake. It was the largest one I have done yet. The cake turned out ok but it wasn't really what I had in mind when I started planning it. I guess it was ok because Grandma and Aunt Cathy seemed pleased and when they are happy, we are ALL happy! I have some pictures that I will try to post soon.

Well, that's the update for now. Please continue to keep my grandpa, Joe Powers, in your prayers.

Grow, Baby Grow!

2008-07-10T20:07:00.000-07:00

Growing up in Kentucky, one thing that was always present during the summer were fresh vegetables. I can remember walking into my Grandma Fletcher's house and she would be canning pickles, green beans while putting up corn, squash and all kinds of other goodies. Tomatoes would cover every spare bit of counter space and she would load me up with all the tomatoes and cucumbers I could hold.

Now while I love the benefits of a summer I garden, I HATE the work that goes into. I don't have the time or the patience for a big garden but this year, I decided to work on my "green thumb" and try to grow some tomatoes. I am so proud of my plants and my itty bitty tomatoes. My dad is so proud!!!!

Cakes

2008-07-08T09:21:00.001-07:00

I haven't posted any cake pictures in a while but here are a few I have done recently.

I did this "turtle" cake for sweet little Bayley's 1st Birthday. I actually did three cakes for the party and I call this one "Turtle on drugs." Notice how the turtle and the writing all kind of lean to the right? Yeah, it was about 2:30am when I finished this one. I promise, I really did feel bad but I just couldn't fix it at that point!

Last time I went to Kentucky, I made this cake for my Mom's birthday. I knew I wanted to do some kind of flowers and who else to practice on but your mom? She loves Wisteria so I had to work a little of that in and then the daisys were my favorites. Well, that or the roses. It is so hard to decide!
Our friend Stentsen came home from Kuwait earlier this year. We had a "Welcome Home Stentsen Party" and I brought the cake (of course). I really enjoyed making this one. It was pretty easy but fun too!

Happy 4th!

2008-07-05T11:13:00.000-07:00

I can't believe it has been over a month since my last post. It doesn't seem that long but then again, there has been so much going on that I can't believe it hasn't been more than a month!

Ben and I had a great vacation with my parents in Grayton Beach, Florida. We didn't really do anything and that is what made it so great! I have some pictures and I will be posting those in a day or so.

Last night, Ben and I went downtown to watch the fireworks. We weren't quite sure where to go so we ended up on the roof of the parking deck at St. Vincents (along with a bunch of other people!). I tried to take a few pictures so enjoy!

Homewood Park and Free Friday Flicks

2008-05-28T08:32:00.000-07:00

Click here to see the schedule for Free Friday Flicks held at Homewood Park.

Blast from the Past

2008-05-17T09:00:00.000-07:00

1988-A pleasantly plump 9 year with bad hair is introduced to a whole new concept-"The Boy Band." New Kids on the block (or NKOTB) released Hangin' Tough in 88' and her life was forever changed. The bedroom that had once contained simple white walls and the purple unicorn bedspread was quickly over run with posters of all the "kids".....Jordan (*sigh*), Donnie, Danny, Jonathan, and Joey. One failed attempt at getting tickets to a sold out concert and several #1 hits later, NKOTB disappeared and it didn't seem like things would ever be the same.

2008-Fast forward several years and not a lot has change. The same girl....even more pleasantly plump and with hair that has significantly improved, is sitting at her computer watching NKOTB on the Today Show with the same silly butterflies in her stomach. Jordan is still her favorite! Now, granted, she did wait for her husband to leave so she could watch the video in silence and he wouldn't make fun of her when she squealed because they did the cute Hangin' Tough dance but still, it has been worth the wait. The only thing that would make this comeback even better would be a little redemption in getting her hands on a couple of concert tickets. *sigh* Since the only nearby concert is in Atlanta on a Wednesday night, it isn't going to happen but it is still nice to relive those years. Whether it's the plump 9 year old or the plump 29 year old, a lot of things have changed, some things never will and I still love NKOTB!!!!!!!!

Fruit Pizza and Graduation Cakes

2008-05-10T19:20:00.000-07:00

I know it seems like I always put pictures of food on here but since cooking is my "hobby," I hope you won't mind. Here is a picture of a fruit pizza I made last week and the cakes I made for the graduation banquet at church.

P.S. A little birdie told me (Hey mom!) that there are several of you that lurk around and don't leave a message. Let me know you are here...I would love to hear from you!

This N' That

2008-04-30T19:22:00.000-07:00

Pampered Chef

2008-04-29T14:52:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone. I just wanted to do a quick post to let you all know that if anyone is interested, I am hosting a Pampered Chef catalog party. This is pretty cool because you don't have to actually go to a party; you can just browse through the catalog online and place your order. They have some pretty neat things so if you are interested, just click on this link, select "Order Products", and enter my first and last name. From there, it is a breeze!

Take a look!

2008-04-18T20:21:00.000-07:00

I know I haven't really blogged about my trip with my mom but it was wonderful. While we were there, we decided to paint our own pottery. She decided to do a bowl for their cat Abby and I painted a plate. I think we did a pretty good job. We also went into several quaint little shops and one of them had this cute flower pot that used bibs, onesies, socks and caps to make a little flower arrangement. Of course, you know me. I said "I could do that" so here is my first attempt. Not bad to say the least but it needs a little fine tuning. Tell me what you think though. Are they Ebay worthy? I hope all of you have a great weekend. I am spending tomorrow with Ms. Addi so I am sure that I will have plenty to blog about later.

Another Cake

2008-04-13T06:21:00.001-07:00

Katie asked me to a baby shower cake for a shower she was giving. Well, the picture makes it look pretty good but it didn't really come out as planned. One thing is for sure; I still have A LOT to learn!

More Pictures

2008-04-05T19:02:00.000-07:00

Pictures from the Biltmore

2008-04-05T18:51:00.000-07:00

Come join us!

2008-03-10T08:16:00.000-07:00

Our gospel meeting/revival started Sunday and so far, we have had two wonderful lessons. We have three more nights (services start at 7pm) and we would love to have you. Get directions, address, or phone number here.

We hope to see you each night!

Dinner and A Movie

2008-03-08T20:42:00.000-08:00

Ben and I have enjoyed a great day at home with no plans-at all- which is almost a first for us. We had talked about going out and having a "date" night but decided to do the same at home. Ben bought me Casablanca for Christmas. I had never seen it so instead of going out, we had a theme night here at home. I fixed Moroccan Lemon Chicken and Olives with Moroccan mint tea to drink and for dessert orange slices with honey cinnamon glaze. Overall it was very nice evening and I am looking forward to our next date night-maybe a spaghetti western will be next!

The Greatest Place on Earth

2008-03-08T14:20:00.000-08:00

Nope, not Disney World, PUBLIX! I really do love going to Publix. I love it so much, I will get up early on a Sunday just to (almost) have it all to myself. I love it so much that it brings a smile to my face when I walk through those doors. I love it so much that every time my mom comes down, I drag her there just so she can love it as much as I do. AND, I love it so much that almost every time I leave, I call my mom to tell her what a great experience I had. That is how much I love it. They have started selling reusable bags to cut down on using so many plastic bags. I am not a recycling fanatic (not anywhere close) but I was cleaning out my plastic bag drawer (yes, I have a plastic bag drawer) and really, it is quite ridiculous. So, I have bought us a couple of reusable bags and I am going to try to use them more often. This is not a promise to cut out all plastic bags but an attempt to keep my plastic bag drawer a little less full and maybe in the process, save the planet!!!!!

Another one

2008-03-06T20:56:00.000-08:00

I know you are all getting tired of pictures of cakes but here is one I finished tonight. I had a little boo boo right at the end but that is how you learn I guess. I promise to post about something else soon! Thank you so much for all of your kind comments. I really appreciate it!

Spiderman Cake

2008-03-05T08:59:00.000-08:00

Final Cake Class

2008-03-01T20:13:00.000-08:00

Erin and I went to our final cake class today. I know it is going to sound silly but I really enjoyed it and I am sad that it is over. I must admit, however, that I won't miss making threes batches of icing every week! I am going to take "off" the month of March but I will start Course II in April. It should be fun. Here are a couple of pictures of my final cake. It turned out pretty well.

Addi in Wonderland & Her Tea Party

2008-02-29T22:45:00.000-08:00

Addi decided she wanted to have a tea party. You really should check it out here. So, of course, what do you have with tea? Cake. Well, technically, I think it is really scones, but in Alabama, we have cake! It was really just an excuse for me to play with fondant. From what I hear, the cake had a little collapse (all that fondant is HEAVY) but I was pretty pleased with my first try.

Zoe the Wonder Dog

2008-02-29T14:29:00.000-08:00

Zoe hasn't made an appearance on the blog recently. Here is a picture from last year.

Just Clownin' Around

2008-02-24T18:42:00.001-08:00

The Wilton Rose

2008-02-23T14:10:00.000-08:00

Today was my third Wilton cake decorating class at Hobby Lobby. I have really enjoyed it and have learned quite a bit. Today in class we practiced "the Wilton Rose." Here are my three shots at it. Not bad for a beginner. They got a little "squished" on the ride home so try not to hold it against me too much!!!

I didn't get my cake finished in class today so I should have a picture of it up by tomorrow.

This Week in Pictures

2008-02-17T11:06:00.000-08:00

This has been a CRAZY week. Ben went to Jackson, MS. Monday. When I got home from work, our water had been turned off. Now, let me proclaim to everyone....I PAID MY BILL. Of course, Birmingham Water was not in the least bit concerned so I didn't have water until Tuesday afternoon. Then, our dog Max had to go the Vet. He was having some problems with his eye. He didn't want to get in the Kia so I had to pick his lard butt up and put it in myself!!!!. Needless to say, I was really missing Ben at this point and he didn't come home until Thursday night. I wasn't able to go to work at all on Tuesday. Thursday night, Erin came over so we could fix our icing for our cake decorating class on Saturday. We practically had icing on our ceiling! We had a good time except Ben crashed our Valentine's party. It was V-day after all! Anyway, it has just been nuts. Meredith and a couple of friends from Freed came down for the weekend and then we were without power this morning. Well, enjoy the pictures of some of my latest masterpieces and if you have a request, let me know. I am always looking for some practice cakes!!!!

Thanks Teale!!!

2008-02-15T14:14:00.000-08:00

I had asked Teale to give my blog a makeover and she did a fabulous job!!! Check out her page; I am sure she would love to make yours "a blog to remember!"

Note: Thanks mom for the pictures in my header. These are from her trip to England, Ireland, and Scotland this summer.

Happy Valentine's Day

2008-02-14T08:01:00.000-08:00

To the one I want to grow old with....I love you!

Update: Thanks babe! I love them!!!

Go Red!

2008-02-13T08:23:00.000-08:00

This is American Heart Month. Heart Disease is the number one killer of American Women. Take a second to check out the American Heart Association's website as well as the Go Red merchandise page.

Tagged? I don't think so....

2008-02-13T07:07:00.001-08:00

Just a quick note...to those of you who tagged me, I will not be partaking in a questionaire that requires me to put up a big 30 for "age at next birthday." I just can't bring myself to do it. Paul, if you make an ugly comment, don't think that I won't delete it because I will!!!!!!

Question; Respond Please

2008-02-12T17:40:00.000-08:00

How do you feel about people who proclaim to be Christians but then are comfortable voting for those who are pro-choice? How is that possible?

The Latest

2008-02-10T14:55:00.001-08:00