Count Your Blessings

Something Fishy

2012-01-30T10:51:00.001-08:00

Below is one of many fish tanks in our house. My husband proudly displays this tank of Discus and Cardinal Tetras in our computer room. Prior to this, we had African Cichlids on display but, despite their cool colors and agility, their aggressive behaviors and dominance lead to many fatalities. Unfortunately, we lost patience and decided to sell them which brought us to another cool fish...Discus. This species of fish are much more docile and friendly. They're also graceful swimmers and mesmerizing to watch.

Something Fishy, a set on Flickr.

Discus and Cardinal Tetras.

Stillness

2012-01-25T07:07:00.000-08:00

Over the weekend we had an insignificant snowfall and the warmer temperature Monday morning created a settling fog making everything feel still and quiet. I wanted to capture the feeling with my camera so I headed to Codorus Lake for some amateur photo fun (soon, I'll be sharing my never over or under exposed, in-focus, manual mode pictures ;) Hopefully you'll agree.

What's Trending

2012-01-21T16:30:00.000-08:00

Zebra print is the hot new trend this season (if you haven't noticed). I went to a baby shower last weekend for my niece and the baby theme was not your typical Noah's Ark, Teddy' bears, or Ballerina's. It was the bold and busy Zebra print with a splash of hot pink. At first, I was taken back by their choice because, after all, it was a baby shower for a dainty little girl. I was expecting soft pinks, yellows, greens and a few lady bugs thrown in but, when I arrived to the shower, Zebra print showcased throughout. All I could say was cute, cute, cute!

How do you like the cupcakes? They're my specialty.

The quilt was made my my mother in-law but designed by my sister in-law.

Brielle is expected to make her debut on February 21st.

She'll be traveling in style.

Sister in-laws you did a great job!! I think I might sport a Zebra print bathing suit this year.

Just Do It!

2012-01-11T05:24:00.000-08:00

This year, I'm doing things different. I'm not holding back. I'm the type of person that sets short-term goals because I always loose sight of my long-term goals. I have good intentions of trying new ideas or "stepping outside my box" but then, somewhere, somehow, I loose focus and sit back and watch my opportunities go by. This year, my new motto is Just Do It! I'm so envious of those who have that drive in them. How do they get it? How can I get it?

JUST DO IT!

New Year's Day Outside

2012-01-02T10:02:00.000-08:00

Living on the east coast, New Year's Day is usually spent indoors because the weather is typically too cold for outdoor fun. However, this year, the weather was unseasonably warm and the bright sunshine called us to enjoy New Year's Day outside. We packed up the car with the girls bikes and went to Codorus State Park for a long stroll and bike ride.

It started out like this...smiles and laughter.

frolicking hand and hand to the waters edge...

Happy to strike a pose.

But then, minutes later, tiredness overcame us her and...

...well that fast, the bike ride for Holly was over and she found herself perched on top of Matt's shoulders as he carried her back to the car where Gabby and I were waiting. The end!

On The Twelfth Day

2011-12-23T13:46:00.000-08:00

And finally...

On the twelfth day of Christmas my true love gave to me

12 Drummers Drumming

The 12 drummers are drumming about the 12 points of doctrine in the Apostles' Creed

Have a safe and healthy holiday!!

Ten and Eleven

2011-12-22T04:51:00.000-08:00

The next two verses. Sing a-long...

On the tenth day of Christmas my true love gave to me

10 Lords A-Leaping

The 10 Lords are the Ten Commandments

On the eleventh day of Christmas my true love gave to me

11 Pipers Piping

The 11 pipers refer to the 11 faithful Apostles.

Six, Seven, Eight, Nine

2011-12-20T07:01:00.000-08:00

I have some catching up to do. Now, where was I? The next couple of verses go like this...

On the sixth day of Christmas my true love gave to me

6 Geese A-Laying

6 Geese a-laying represent the six days of the creation

On the seventh day of Christmas my true love gave to me
7 Swans A-Swimming

The swans symbolize the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit -
prophecy, ministry, teaching, exhortation, giving, leading and compassion

On the eighth day of Christmas my true love gave to me

8 Maids A-Milking

The milking maids speak of the eight Beatitudes: Blessed are the poor in spirit, those who mourn, the meek, those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, the merciful, the pure in heart, the peacemakers and those who are persecuted for righteousness's sake

On the ninth day of Christmas my true love gave to me
9 Ladies Dancing

The ladies dancing represent the nine fruits of the Holy Spirit -
love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control

Snowbirds(goats)

2011-12-18T06:27:00.000-08:00

Fifth Day

2011-12-16T04:57:00.000-08:00

We all love this verse.

On the fifth day of Christmas my true love gave to me

5 Golden Rings

The golden rings refer to the first five books of the Old Testament

Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers and Deuteronomy

Fourth Day

2011-12-15T09:39:00.000-08:00

You're doing well. Next verse...

On the fourth day of Christmas my true love gave to me

4 Calling Birds

Calling birds represent the Gospels - Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John

Third Day

2011-12-14T04:50:00.000-08:00

O.K. help me out, what gifts are given on the third day?

On the third day of Christmas my true love gave to me

3 French Hens

The trio of French hens represents three theological virtues -

faith, hope and love

Second Day

2011-12-13T04:54:00.000-08:00

The next verse to The Twelve Days of Christmas goes alittle something like this...

On the second day of Christmas my true love gave to me

2 Turtle Doves

The turtledoves represent the Old and New testaments.

Count Down To Christmas

2011-12-12T09:33:00.000-08:00

Who likes to sing along (or try to) to the famous carol, The Twelve Days of Christmas? You might sing along but, do you really know the meaning behind it? My Dad shared an article with me explaining the meanings behind the gifts given and I'd like to pass that information on to you. You'll have such a better appreciation for the song even if it's Alvin and the Chipmunk's singing it.

Here it goes. Day 1:

One the first day of Christmas my true love gave to me
A partridge in a pear tree.

"My true love" represents the big man upstairs, God
The partridge is symbolic of Jesus Christ, and the pear tree is Jerusalem

Satisfaction (for this year)

2011-12-05T10:06:00.000-08:00

It's the little things that make me happy and this year, I think I finally have a welcoming, festive front entrance to our home. It took years to get to this point but I "think" it's getting there. Matt even added his touch with the fish chimney. We've had our eye on that fish all summer and finally, we picked it up on clearance...that makes me happy, too! The greenery came from Cross Creek Farm and I added the sprigs of Winter berries from around our house. Ahhh satisfaction.

FRIDAYS FENCES

2011-11-11T05:15:00.000-08:00

Over the summer, we went to the Paw Paw Tunnel located in Paw Paw, WV on the C & O Canal. Inside the tunnel is a tow path that the mules used to pull boats through the canal. Certain areas on the railing, you can see where the ropes dug into it leaving long, smooth grooves. You definitely need a flashlight or if you're so daring and trusting, you can use the railing or fencing as your guide through the darkness.

To play along in Fridays Fences click the link below:

Fridays Fences

FRIDAYS FENCES

2011-11-04T04:47:00.000-07:00

Orioles bullpen. Can't get much closer then this. In this case, I'm so glad there is a fence. It's not very pretty but it's definitely serving a purpose.

To play along click the link below:

Fridays Fences

FRIDAYS FENCES

2011-10-20T18:06:00.000-07:00

Doesn't this make you think of an old western picture with the rope and whiskey barrel? I love the pattern from the rope's shadow.

To play along, click the link below
Fridays Fences

How Pretty Art Thou

2011-10-15T06:59:00.000-07:00

Something about a field of sunflowers makes me say OOOOO and AHHHH.

FRIDAYS FENCES

2011-10-14T04:55:00.000-07:00

A simple view through a simple fence

To play along in Friday's Fences click below.

Fridays Fences

Wordless Wednesday

2011-10-12T05:24:00.000-07:00

Birthday Wishes

2011-09-14T05:19:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Mom!! Hope your day is filled with joy and laughter.

9/11 Remembered

2011-09-11T04:19:00.000-07:00

The images below were taken at the Healing Fields, Hanover, PA. 3,000 flags were displayed and individually tagged in memory or in honor of someone.

Wordless Wednesday

2011-09-07T06:06:00.000-07:00

Crayfishing

2011-08-15T08:35:00.000-07:00

Our farm neighbors introduced us to a little freshwater crustacean known as the Crayfish or Crawdad. I used to catch these little or big critters as a kid but never tried dipping one in butter.

A few weeks ago, we were invited over for a crayfish feed. I was curious as to just how you would catch so many crayfish to have enough for a feed. That morning I grabbed my camera and joined the fishing crew to capture the art of crayfishing. They have five spring fed ponds on their 70 acre farm, making it perfect habitat for crayfish to thrive in.

First, tie a string to a long piece of wood to use as a fishing poll. Secondly, tie a small chicken thigh to the end of the string to use as bait. Lower the bait into the water and let it sit for a while. After a few minutes, slowly pull the bait out of the water to check if you have any nibblers. Hold a small net underneath the bait to catch any crayfish that have collected on that piece.

Then, dump out the crayfish to sort through the "keepers". The smaller ones, 2 inches or less, are not worth keeping. The bigger, the better!

Once you have enough "Keepers", you're ready to cook em up.

Boil them in a large pot with sausage and ears of corn for about 12 or 15 minutes. Once they're done, drain and dump them out on the table. To eat, take the tail of the crayfish and twist off. Peel away shell and eat meat inside. For extra yumminess, dip meat into melted butter or cajun spices. Wash down with cold beer.

ENJOY!

Wordless Wednesday

2011-08-03T06:55:00.000-07:00

Welcome to McDonalds. May I help you?

Do I look Devilish?

Hot and Steamy Nights

2011-07-27T18:49:00.000-07:00

I love the sounds of crickets and cicadas singing on hot summer nights. I love watching the lighting bugs light up the night sky. But even more so, I love when the nights are hot and steamy making it perfect for a night swim. Our neighbors put in an awesome pool so last week when the nights were hot and steamy, we joined them for a refreshing swim.

Host and Hostess

They have twins the same age as Gabby. The kids love the water and are quite the swimmers.

Love the look, Holly.

NO FEAR!!! Gabby opted NOT to try that...just yet

Surf's up Dude!!

Something about swimming on hot steamy nights, makes it so much fun. Even the kitten didn't mind a little bit of water.

Man Made Wonders

2011-07-22T07:40:00.000-07:00

Built in 1850 the Paw Paw Tunnel, located in Paw Paw, WV, along the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal, is a hand-carved 24 foot tunnel lined with 6 million bricks. It was used to transport countless tons of coal, farm products and manufactured products by mules and canal boats until 1924 when the canal was closed.

When you stand in the middle of the tunnel, you really are standing in complete darkness. You can tell the flash from my camera surprised everybody.

The towpath along the canal guided you safely through the tunnel. The temperatures inside were cool and very welcoming giving the temperatures outside were in the 90's with high humidity. Sometimes water droplets from the ceiling of the tunnel would explode on your head and shoulders which felt really refreshing.

When you reach the other end, this is what you find. Bikers love this path.

We stumbled across this little guy. Guess who was really excited about this find? Can you locate the tadpole swimming close by?

After our hike, we were famished. The water pumps along the trail provided refreshing spring water.

Shoot Me! #19 of 52

2011-07-21T06:09:00.000-07:00

Kelly at Living In PA is our wonderful host today. If you would like to play, just click here

I'm pretty proud of myself that I can still do a split. I've always been very flexible but never thought I'd have that flexibility at the age of 40. I never participated in a gymnastics class but I can remember playing in our basement and coach Kelly (a.k.a my sister) would be my spotter and give me a boost of confidence until I was able to do the move on my own. Maybe my little side kick should try gymnastics.

Summer Escapes

2011-07-17T18:14:00.000-07:00

We love summertime!! We beat the summer heat by taking a dip in our pool. It may be small but the girls and I have fun splashing around in it.

Look Mom...I can do the back float!

Look at this trick!!

Gabby has a new smile since her snaggle tooth FINALLY came out!!

Summer Escapes....

I think Kaina would like to go for a dip.

Even on hot days, I don't mind doing some gardening. These are sunflowers that I bought from Cross Creek Farms during SunFlower Days for $2 each.

I'm Happy When...

2011-06-27T18:10:00.000-07:00

I'm happy when...

I'm picking flowers for someone

Arranging them in a vase

Smelling them

Planting them

Watching them burst with colors

Flowers make me Happy!! : )

Happy You're My Dad

2011-06-19T08:20:00.000-07:00

I’m Happy You’re My Dad

I feel safe when you are with me;

You show me fun things to do;

You make my life much better;

The best father I know is you.

I’m happy you’re my Dad

And so I want to say

I love you, Dad, and wish you

A Happy Father’s Day!

By Joanna Fuchs

Chocolate Anyone?

2011-06-17T07:14:00.000-07:00

Chocolate pudding never looked any better!

Shoot Me! #18 of 52

2011-06-16T08:18:00.000-07:00

Baseball games have always been one of the great icons of American life. Sing with me...

Take me out to the ballgame, take me out with the crowd,

buy me some peanuts and cracker jack,

I don't care if I never get back.

Let me root, root, root, for the home team,

if they don't win it's a shame.

For it's one, two, three strikes your out

at the old ballgame.

written by: Jack Norworth and Albert Von Tilzer

The Meeting Place

2011-06-10T09:55:00.000-07:00

A Day At The Park

2011-06-07T04:42:00.000-07:00

Over the weekend, we went to see our first O's game of the season at Camden Yards. We had great seats. Only 4 rows off of left field.

(click on images to enlarge)

What a difference it makes when you're at eye level with the players. Toronto Blue Jays are up at bat.

The bottom of the 7th inning, the O's were down 7-3 and the crowd started thinning out. Unfortunately, it seems they're are on another losing streak and the fans lose hope easily. Sad, yes, but I was excited to see the row of seats across from our aisle empty. I was able to get right next to the fence of the bullpen and take some candid shots of the players.

I have no idea the names of the players. I don't have much time to keep up with the stats and new players these days. I didn't' recognize a soul. They didn't mind that I was taking pictures of them in their "down" time, though. One of the guys signed a ball and threw it over to one of the Mom's from our West Manheim Little League group.

One of the coaches (on the left side with sunglasses) shot me one those "c'mon lady, didn't you get enough pictures" look.

Nice play #10. Looks like he was smiling for me.

Shoot Me! #17 of 52

2011-06-02T05:31:00.000-07:00

It's time to stop hiding behind that camera of yours. Your family is missing you in the picture. So it's time to post a picture of YOU (yes, you) every Thursday with your child, your spouse, your friend, your dog, or even by yourself. Just get in the picture, you'll be glad you did!

Church Lady is our wonderful host today. If you would like to play, click here .

The girls and I tiptoeing through the historic Paw Paw Tunnel located on the C&O Canal, Paw Paw, WV. Even with a flashlight, I found myself treading lightly. I felt paralyzed without it. Darkness can really mess with your mind...especially if you're scared of the dark (I'm not naming any names.)

Click here to read more about the hand carved wonder and maybe even plan your next trip.

Made With Love

2011-05-31T05:21:00.000-07:00

Gabby received this special tool for her birthday. It's a Friendship Bracelet Maker. I've heard it's a bit challenging making a bracelet without one.

Matt decided he would make the girls their own friendship bracelets. It took him a while to get the hang of making the knots and weaving each strand in order as to make that perfect pattern but finally, it all started coming together. You can tell by the look on his face that he is quite pleased with his progress.

I have to admit, he did a great job. Each bracelet has 5 colors in it.

Looks like the girls are happy with the finished product.

Another Holly-ism

2011-05-29T05:38:00.000-07:00

After a night of camping out on our bedroom floor alongside her sister, Holly woke up, turned to Gabby and said, "I slept like a frog last night."

I love when I have nights like that! :)

Shoot Me! #16 of 52

2011-05-26T04:59:00.001-07:00

Freaky Friday

2011-05-19T14:12:00.001-07:00

Silly Little Monster

Shoot Me! #15 of 52

2011-05-19T04:58:00.000-07:00

It's time to stop hiding behind that camera of yours. Your family is missing you in the picture. So it's time to post a picture of YOU (yes, you) every Thursday with your child, your spouse, your friend, your dog, or even by yourself. Just get in the picture, you'll be glad you did!

Church Lady is our wonderful host today. If you would like to play, just click here .

I couldn't get enough pictures of the Hydrangeas at Longwood Gardens. I have to say, they're my favorite springtime flower. I love the big blooms and the array of colors they come in.

I patiently waited to get this shot until all of the "ghostly" images behind me were gone.

Shoot Me ! #14 of 52

2011-05-12T09:48:00.000-07:00

It's time to stop hiding behind that camera of yours. Your family is missing you in the picture. So it's time to post a picture of YOU (yes, you) every Thursday with your child, your spouse, your friend, your dog, or even by yourself. Just get in the picture, you'll be glad you did!

Church Lady is our wonderful host today. If you would like to play, click here .

My sister and I usually have the same ideas in mind when it comes to dressing up. We'll often pick the same colors or wear similar styles when we go out together and we always get a good laugh when we see each other. Saturday was one of those times. We both talked about wearing dresses but didn't know what each other's looked like. Our colors were different but our styles were very similar. So, we had another good laugh. I guess great minds think a like!

Fondest Childhood Memories

2011-05-10T04:51:00.000-07:00

Over the weekend during my grandmother's 85th birthday celebration, she was asked what was her fondest childhood memory. Without hesitation she said rollerskating. I was impressed how fast she came up with that answer given her age and how long it's been since she's roller skated. But, as I sat and listened to her stories, it jogged my memory of my fondest childhood times which, I didn't have any trouble remembering either. Riding my big wheel and jumping on the trampoline came right to mind.

I really loved jumping on the trampoline at my Grandmother's house. I never got the nerve to do flips but I remember just bouncing as high as I could and never tiring.

I grew up riding my big wheel in the allies of Baltimore, MD. Apparently, I would often ride down to watch the boys play alittle basketball and my mother swears thats where I learned those "bad" words.

The girls club

I want to go faster...

Yes! My fastest time ever!!
I remember peddaling as fast as my little legs would go and hearing the stones pop under the plastic wheels. Eventaully, the one back tire grew a big hole. Riding my big wheel was always so much fun and I don't remember ever growing tired of it. Looks like Holly thinks the same thing.

More Holly-isms

2011-05-06T04:37:00.000-07:00

The other day, Holly woke up feeling silly. I think a good night sleep could have played a big part for the silliness but, whatever the reason, she was C-U-T-E!

That evening Holly came down with a terrible case of the Chicken Pops. I didn't know whether to laugh or cry. The first thought that came to mind was, I'll never get those "Chicken Pops" off.

How could I possibly get upset....look at that face.

She's a bit ornery. Wouldn't you say?

Fortunately, the "chicken pops" washed off easily (I think). I didn't know she was planning to wash them off so soon but it looked like she used some water with A LOT of toilet paper.

Shoot Me! #13 of 52

2011-05-05T03:56:00.001-07:00

Wordless Wednesday

2011-05-03T06:03:00.000-07:00

Flowers Galore

2011-04-29T17:42:00.001-07:00

Tracy's photos 2011's photostream on Flickr.

Images were taken at Longwood Gardens and Cross Creek Farms April 2011

What a Smile

2011-04-28T17:32:00.000-07:00

You have to love this smile even with the gaps and crooked tooth that gets hooked on her lip when she smiles. This gnarly tooth which has pushed it's way front and center, has been loose for a while but Gabby refuses to wiggle it. Most kids are excited about a loose tooth. Ahh, the thrill and challenge of pulling and tugging at a loose tooth until...victory! But not my Gabby girl. I think she is hoping it will just fall out. In the meantime, it's driving me crazy. Her gums are swollen and red and it takes her forever to eat. She bites from the side of her mouth so she avoids using her loose tooth. We have offered to help pull it, we've reminded her to wiggle, we've tried bribing but, nothing seems to work.

I guess we'll have to be patient until that stubborn tooth decides to come out. But, even with a snaggle tooth, her smile still lights up the room.

Shoot Me! #12 of 52

2011-04-28T15:17:00.000-07:00

Here I am cleaning up old straw and hay from over the winter with a little observer watching over me.

Here I am taking a little break. Not such a flatterning shot but my husband thought it was BLOGALICIOUS! If you say so, honey.

Wordless Wednesday

2011-04-27T05:22:00.001-07:00

Butterflies Magnolia

Magnolia x 'Butterfiles'

Annual Tradition

2011-04-18T05:03:00.000-07:00

click on images to enlarge

Yesterday, we enjoyed our annual Palm Sunday get together with my sister's family, my Dad and step Mom, and the newest members of our family, Raven and Chris. It's difficult getting our families together for Easter so, my sister a.k.a Church Lady, has invited us over for a Palm Sunday lunch/dinner for the past few years and it's worked out great.

The day usually starts off with an Easter egg hunt for Gabby and Holly. Thanks to Nature Girl, she always makes sure there's goodies stuffed in the eggs. But the main event is Easter egg decorating. We had 5 dozen of eggs to decorate and everybody decorated some. The best part about decorating eggs is each one is different just like a snowflake. It really makes for a pretty display when we're finished. It was a really fun day and we even got to play outside. Here are some pictures of our day.

Shoot Me! #11 of 52

2011-04-14T05:47:00.000-07:00

It's time to stop hiding behind that camera of yours. Your family is missing you in the picture. So it's time to post a picture of YOU (yes, you) every Thursday with your child, your spouse, your friend, your dog, or even by yourself. Just get in the picture, you'll be glad you did!

Church Lady is our wonder host today. If you would like to play, just click here .

I finally got my swing and I love it! We placed it on the side of our house so I can sit and watch our goats and look at the beautiful view of our field, the farm behind us, and the pastures around us. That's an Oriole feeder hanging beside the swing. Last year, an Oriole found the feeder but didn't hang around long. Since I have it out earlier, maybe I'll have better luck attracting more Orioles and Humming birds.

The swing is level but at a 3 year olds perpective, it looks as if it's leaning. Holly did her best.

Wordless Wednesday

2011-04-13T05:43:00.000-07:00

Breakfast of Champions!

7 Years Ago

2011-04-11T05:41:00.000-07:00

Since our 7th anniversary was yesterday, I thought I'd share a picture and a short story from our wedding day. Matt and I were married at Manor Tavern in Monkton, MD. It was a beautiful spring day and all of the buds on the trees were busting at the seams. The birds were singing and the smell of hyacinths filled the air. It was a perfect day to get married. We had a small wedding with just our immediate family. We decided to keep it small since I was expecting our first baby in May. I arrived early as to make sure everything was in it's place and all of the arrangements were going well.

I had a few minutes to primp before our guests started arriving so, I went into the ladies room to brush my teeth. As I started brushing, I heard the sounds of intestinal distress coming from the stall beside the sink. I was so disgusted that the person was not even trying to be discreet. I tried to hurry and finish my business before they came out, but the stall door slowly opened, and our eyes met. Expecting to see a women, to my surprise, a man was starring down at me as I rinsed the toothpaste from mouth. I think we surprised each other. I thought he was drunk but when I realized I was in the wrong, I wanted to crawl into a hole. Apparently, I mistakenly went into the MEN'S room to do my primping. He probably thought I was a crazy pregnant women in distress. He awkwardly walked out without even washing his hands.

So, I had a little mishap on my wedding day but it was and still is a funny story. Pregnant women can do crazy things.

7 Years Today

2011-04-10T17:52:00.000-07:00

Today, we celebrated our 7th anniversary. Our girls stayed with my sister in law while Matt and I grabbed lunch and went to see the movie Arthur. I liked it but Matt was a little bored. It was a funny love story. Who knew! He's probably sorry he picked it. We're planning a trip to Longwood Gardens, too. Matt has never been there and I know he'll love it.

Wordless Wednesday

2011-04-06T04:47:00.001-07:00

Hope your day is PERFECTO!!

Big Sisters Are The Best

2011-04-04T10:08:00.000-07:00

Keep peddling...atta girl

(click on images to enlarge)

Let's try this hill...

Hop up on the seat...don't be scared

You're leaning...hold on tight...I gottcha

Shoot Me! # 10 of 52

2011-03-31T04:53:00.001-07:00

Church Lady is our wonderful host today. If you would like to play along, click here

I finally bought myself a Vera Bradley purse. My sister and I were in Christmas Tree Hill where they carry the new and discontinued line of Vera Bradley purses. I always looked at them but never really wanted one until...my sister influenced me. She bought a navy blue purse with a matching wallet. The one pictured below is the one I purchased. This was a discontinued purse and the best part about it was I got it on SALE!! I love the colors through it. It shouts "summer" to me. The background is navy blue and the flowers are more of a corel color then pink. LOVE IT!

click on images to view larger

Shoot Me #9 of 52

2011-03-24T04:50:00.001-07:00

Matt and I are trying out the new tech 3-D glasses that my Dad bought with his new cinema flat screen t.v. Quite awesome!! I guess they should be at $150 a pair.

Wordless Wednesday

2011-03-23T14:57:00.000-07:00

Big Smile...

Birthday Cakes

2011-03-11T08:22:00.000-08:00

Yesterday we celebrated Holly's 4th birthday not with one cake but with two! The second cake was a surprise given to Holly from my niece Carley. It looks too pretty to eat. Carley made the cake at school during Spring Fling. It's pictured below.

Thanks for making Holly's birthday extra special, Carley. You did a wonderful job decorating the cake. I really think you should consider that as a career.

Out of Commission

2011-03-07T05:27:00.001-08:00

Children can certainly be a big challenge but they turn into little angels when they sleep

I can't remember a time when all four of us were sick at the same time. It all started Thursday night and by Saturday, we were all sneezing, coughing, and feeling achy with fevers. Not the way I wanted to spend my weekend. Today, we're taking another sick day and trying to get back to normalcy tomorrow. Keep your fingers crossed. I'm tired of this icky monster of a thing hanging around. GO AWAY!!

Until then...give me another kleenex and more cough medicine...

Shoot Me #8 of 52

2011-03-03T10:42:00.001-08:00

It's time to stop hiding behind that camera of yours. Your family is missing you in the picture. So it's time to post a picture of YOU (yes, you) every Thursday with your child, your spouse, your friend, your dog, or even by yourself. Just get in the picture, you'll be glad you did! Sign up to play below and grab the "Shoot Me" Button code to the right.

Church Lady is our wonderful host today. If you would like to play, just click here.

I was late getting this posted but hey, better late then never. Here I am feeding an aquarium full of African Chilids. It's a 150 gallon tank giving the fish enough room to grow. They can grow to be 5" - 7" long. The males get more colorful as they mature. It's an awesome tank to watch and relax to.

Melting Snow = MUDD

2011-02-22T16:42:00.000-08:00

Finally, the constantly warm temperatures melted the ice/snow that was laying around for weeks. That's great...so I thought until I looked in our backyard and found our dog covered in M-U-D-D.! Not so great.

2 P's - Practice and Patience

2011-02-20T17:43:00.000-08:00

Sunday afternoon, my Mom and I ventured out on a photo shoot. She was interested in getting barn shots and I was anxious to put my new Tamron 18-250mm lens to work. What a difference this lens makes. I feel like I can actually get a "descent" picture now. I know I have a lot to learn and really need to take some photography classes to master the "art of photography" but in the mean time, I'll have fun practicing.

Here are a few shots from our drive. Thanks for letting me hitch a ride with you, Mom. Where are we going next Sunday?

Shoot Me! #7 of 52

2011-02-17T04:57:00.000-08:00

Here's my gang taking an uneasy stroll on the ice...at least for me it was uneasy, they claim it was fun and exciting. Matt teased me because I didn't want to walk on the ice, so I had to show him my pouty face look.

Ice Training in Progress

2011-02-14T05:41:00.000-08:00

Living nearby Lake Marburg, we get to enjoy many wonderful aspects of the lake. The picturesque scenery, the wildlife it draws, and the many activities and events that take place on and off the lake.

A popular wintertime sport is ice-fishing. On the most blustery, coldest days, you'll find die-hard fishermen out in the middle of the lake waiting patiently for a bite. Every time I ride by though, I suffer from a bit of anxiety. Even though the ice is "probably" solid and monitored by the DNR, I still have this fear that I will witness my worst phobia.

Yesterday, we took the girls to a spot on the lake where people ice-skate and on our way, we passed emergency crews parked at the lake and people with emergency equipment on the lake. My anxiety level rose about 100% however, Matt assured me that it was just a training exercise so, I made him turn the car around. Sure enough, that's all it was...thank the dear Lord.

Here are a few pictures of their "training" in progress. I wasn't able to speak to anyone about their training exercises but they were nice enough to let us stay and take pictures.

Matt was able to drag me out onto the ice and I reluctantly went
only because I saw people ice-skating and thought it was "safe"

Shoot Me! #6 of 52

2011-02-10T05:05:00.000-08:00

This is a result of trying to use the automatic timer on my camera. It's not easy making a human sandwich when the top piece is only 3' tall. We had fun trying, though.

Shoot Me! #5 of 52

2011-02-03T14:08:00.001-08:00

It's time to stop hiding behind that camera of yours. Your family is missing you in the picture. So it's time to post a picture of YOU (yes, you) every Thursday with your child, your spouse, your friend, your dog, or even by yourself. Just get in the picture, you'll be glad you did! Sign up to play below and grab the "Shoot Me" Button code to the right.

Church Lady is our wonderful host today. If you would like to play, just click here.

I wasn't going to play this week because I didn't have a photo of myself however, I was lucky to get a reflection shot at the last minute. I was standing in my bathroom around 5:00p.m. and when I looked up in the mirror, the sun light was beaming in my eyes. I felt like a deer in headlights. So, here I am looking partially disguised.

Twin Springs Farm

2011-01-29T05:52:00.000-08:00

Down the road from our house is a bison farm and market called Twin Springs Market. The market offers fresh bison burgers, steaks, Bershire pork, and Highlander beef. They also have a family petting zoo and up close interaction with live bison. Every time I ride through the area, I always wish I had my camera because of the picturesque scenery that compliments every season. Yesterday, I finally remembered to grab my camera and get some shots.

Shoot Me! #4 of 52

2011-01-27T05:51:00.001-08:00

Here I am dancing at a wedding. I think it was the first winter wedding I've ever attended. It sure was cold that evening but the dance floor was smoking hot!

Wordless Wednesday

2011-01-26T06:20:00.000-08:00

A beautiful winter wonderland. This is a view from our driveway. These are the days I wished I had a better lens to use for capturing the quietness and softness of the snowfall.

Winterberries sprinkled with snow

Shoot Me! #3 of 52

2011-01-20T05:10:00.000-08:00

Good Ole Fashion Fun

2011-01-17T11:11:00.000-08:00

In today's world, most kids don't have a clue as to what good ole fashion fun means. If they're not plugged into something, then it ain't fun. Even at 3 1/2 years old, the computer has challenging games for their skill levels but, it doesn't really let you have an imagination.

For Christmas, My Mother-inlaw (MiMi) gave my youngest daughter a book filled with hand made paper dolls and accessories. An original idea that took her weeks to complete. Each doll and accessory was cut from vintage fabric, then an iron on transfer was carefully cut for each piece giving them durability. After that, small pieces of velcro were cut and placed on each piece and on every page of the book so that each doll and accessory could be kept neatly inside. Lastly, every doll was given a name and placed on a page with coordinating clothing and accessories.

When Holly opened it, she immediately played with it and continues to play with it everyday. Her imagination is unbelievable! I love listening to her bring these dolls to life with her endless conversations. It's impressive how creative she is at her age and to see her having good ole fashion fun.

Her book that keeps the paper dolls.

Can't play paperdolls without a tea set.

Shoot Me! #2 of 52

2011-01-13T03:49:00.000-08:00

It's time to stop hidding behind that camera of yours. Your family is missing you in the picture. So it's time to post a picture of you, yes YOU, every Thursday with your child, spouse, your friend, your pet, or even by yourself. Just get in the picture, you'll be glad you did.

Church Lady is the wonderful host of Shoot Me. If you would like to play just click here .

Time to feed my other kids. I give them some grain and hay in the morning, which they gobble up in no time, and then in the evening they are given more hay.

Apps Are Fun!!

2011-01-11T16:08:00.001-08:00

Created with PhotoShake

Having some fun with my new iTouch that was given to me from Matt for Christmas.

My Rock Band

2011-01-10T05:34:00.000-08:00

This is one of the fun meme's going around. Try it out. It's a lot of fun!

The Rules:

1. Go to Wikipedia and hit random. The first random Wikipedia article you get is the name of your band.

2. Go to quotationspage.com and hit random. The last four or five words of the very last quote on the page is the title of your first album.

3. Go to Flickr and click on "explore the last seven days". Third picture no matter what it is, will be your album cover.

4. Use Photoshop, picnik.com or picasa, etc. to put it all together.

5. Post it with this text and tag the friends you want to join in.

Here's my finished product. The band's name is EMD F45. Pretty cool.

Shoot Me! #1 of 52

2011-01-06T04:01:00.000-08:00

Gabby and I, 7:00a.m. Christmas morning. This is what I look like before coffee.

Christmas In Review

2011-01-03T04:51:00.000-08:00

Our family had a wonderful Christmas despite the stomach bug that Holly had however, she was still able to enjoy everything about Christmas. Here's our Christmas in review:

Spending time with family...

Christmas morning....

Playing with paper dolls...

Getting my first Pogo stick...

Riding my new bike.

Hope the New Year brings health and happiness for everyone.

Attached

2010-12-13T05:21:00.000-08:00

When you were younger, about 4 or 5 years old, did you have a special thing you were attached to? I had a blankie that went everywhere with me and then sadly, the shredded piece of cloth that was basically attached to my hand, flew out the car window. I think my Mom gave me a washcloth to use in it's place but, it just wasn't the same. Well, my Gabby girl has a blankie that she is very attached to.

She knows she can't take it to school or into stores but anytime we're in the car or at home relaxing, you can always find Gabby with her blankie in her right hand while sucking her thumb.

Saturday, we stopped to pick out our Christmas tree but the girls were not interested in helping us. They were both happy to stay in the car since they didn't need to be confined to their car seats. It was a small tree lot and we were able to pick out a tree and get back to the car within 10 minutes. When I opened the door with excitement, I found Gabby sobbing. Tears just rolling down both cheeks and in her most pitiful voice she said, "My blankie is falling apart!" My heart melted. I could feel the tears swelling up in my eyes. Matt took the piece of blankie that had fallen on the floor and said confidently, "I'll fix your blankie," reassuring Gabby.

When we got home, I got out my sewing kit and Matt sewed blankie back together. Gabby was very grateful. Take a look at his sewing skills.

Matt sewed Tiggers hands together again which hold the key chain and part of the blankie that had fallen on the floor.

Ahh...happiness!

Restoration

2010-11-29T08:37:00.000-08:00

About five years ago, this farm house stood dilapidated and in need of a lot of TLC. It had been abandoned and left vacant for many years until a local builder purchased the farm along with its 70 acres.

The builder left the farmhouse untouched while he worked on his plans for subdividing the acreage. It was a diamond in the rough and I knew the old place had character and the potential to be transformed into a rustic and charming home. Today, it's all that and more. The owners, John and Robin who purchased the farm from the builder as is, did a wonderful job adding their personal touches meanwhile, keeping the farmstead look alive. I wish I had a picture of the farm house before renovations to better illustrate why I'm even blogging about this.

Everything in red was part of the original house. They enclosed the front porch and added the portion to the left. The back of the house has a big covered deck overlooking acres of serene farmland. The best part is that I pass this place everyday and remember how it used to look. I'm so glad it's been tastefully restored into a beautiful farm house that makes the neighbors a little envious but at the same time, glad someone else saw a hidden gem. Our dog, Nyati lived on this farm until we adopted him.

Birthday Blessings

2010-11-21T06:03:00.000-08:00

May God continue to bless your life and give you the desires of your heart.

As God adds life to your years, may he add years to your life.

Here's to another year of blessings!

Happy Birthday Sister!!!

Me and My Shadow

2010-11-16T04:43:00.000-08:00

The balmy weather on Saturday kept us outside most of the day. We decided to take a walk later in the afternoon as the sun was starting to lower to the horizon. The sun was bright and warm, so we wrapped our jackets around our waists and meandered along the road kicking stones, watching for wildlife, and soaking up the warmth of the sun. The girls had fun watching their shadows cast across the road onto the bank. It was perfecting timing for an afternoon walk.

Here are a few pictures from our walk.

Breakfast Birthday Celebration

2010-11-13T17:19:00.000-08:00

Pop Oz and MiMi

This year for Pop's birthday, we celebrated a little differently. In the past, our tradition has been meeting at their house for ice-cream and cake, but this year, we went out for breakfast.

Pop has grown to love dinning at Dutch Country Restaurant. He often goes there for breakfast on Saturday mornings with his daughter, Kris. So, the family thought it would be fun to surprise him and celebrate his birthday there.

It turned out great! The chocolate chip pancakes seemed to be a popular choice...even for the grown ups but the best part was seeing Pops surprised look when he turned the corner and saw all of us. We had 19 people and was only missing one. Here are a few pictures from our breakfast birthday celebration.

From left: Mom Oz, Pop Oz, Kim, Matt, Kris, Holly and Gabby

The whole gang

The Best Things About Fall

2010-11-07T17:15:00.000-08:00

The best things about fall are...

Finding pretty leaves

Throwing leaves over your head and watching them float through the air...

...and having a sister to do that with.

Shoot Me! #16 of 52

2010-11-04T05:05:00.000-07:00

Every Thursday, I will be participating in Just Shoot Me hosted by Forever In Blue Jeans.

Here are the rules: Post a picture of you, yes you, with a spouse, child, friend, or even yourself every Thursday. Click here to see more Just Shoot Me.

I'm pictured with my good friend, Colleen. We've known each other for only a short period of time, but have become very close friends. We are neighbors and she has twins the same age as Gabby so, we have a lot in common. Colleen and I grew up in the same neighborhood in Baltimore, MD and she was in the same kindergarten class as my sister, CL, however, our families did not know each other. Ironically, here we are many, many years later getting to know each other.

Wordless Wednesday

2010-11-03T04:55:00.001-07:00

I'm not saying a word...

Big Night On The Town

2010-10-31T13:05:00.000-07:00

Thursday night, we participated in our first Halloween parade with Gabby's dance class. The parade is a huge deal for the locals and causes complete chaos throughout the town.

Chairs, blankets, tape, and rope, lined the parade route reserving front row spots. Detour signs were placed. Businesses closed early. It was all the chatter amongst everyone. If I didn't live here, I would have thought President Obama was coming to town. It really is crazy!

The evening started at 4:00 and ended at 10:00. Gabby's dance class dressed up as Zombies and decorated a float/trailer to look like a creepy grave yard. By 7:00, though, our little Zombie's were very cold and tired and by time we started proceeding, they were too tired to dance and huddled closed together in the graveyard trying their hardest to stay warm. Pre-parade sights, sounds, and activities kept the rest of us warm. Here are a few pictures of our big night on the town.

One of the Zombies and G.J. dancing.

Looks like G.J. enjoyed herself.

Shoot Me! #15 of 52

2010-10-28T05:45:00.000-07:00

Daydreamer...

Shoot Me! #14 of 52

2010-10-20T16:51:00.000-07:00

Every Thursday, I will be participating in Just Shoot Me hosted by Forever In Blue Jeans.

Here are the rules: Post a picture of you, yes you, with a child, spouse, friend, or even yourself, every Thursday. Click here to see more Just Shoot Me

Here I am pictured with some of our neighbor kids along with Gabby and Holly. Yesterday was an awesome day and everybody was happy. I thought it was a good time to capture the moment.

Holly-isms

2010-10-18T16:38:00.000-07:00

Snow wipe = Snow White

bathing soup = bathing suit

eye bulbt = eye ball

bulb head = bald head

Yati = Nyati

McKelly = Aunt Kelly

Decussing = disgusting

The Cute Wicked Witch

2010-10-18T05:03:00.000-07:00

Over the weekend, Gabby went to her first Halloween festivity for the month and she was very excited to dress up in her scary, wicked costume. She didn't want anything to do with being a princess, looking pretty, or dressing as her favorite Disney character/singer, Selena Gomez, she was all about being the scariest, ugliest witch I could make her into.

We applied green witch makeup and added some warts, painted her hair green and whalah...you have a scary (cute) wicked witch. After the party, Gabby told me that the Mom having the party was a clicker with her camera and kept clicking away at her...I can see why.

This is Holly's scary face. Looks more cute then scary.

Wordless Wednesday

2010-10-13T04:55:00.001-07:00

Is it a stick or a bug?

I love watching these amazing creatures. They're mysterious but intriguing. Calm and unique. I bet their babies are adorable.

Wordless Wednesday

2010-10-05T04:33:00.001-07:00

Nyati ?

Wordless Wednesday

2010-09-29T04:42:00.001-07:00

I love how the light reflects through this "crystal ball". It reminds me of a giant Christmas ornament.

My Little Peanut

2010-09-24T17:37:00.000-07:00

Holly, I love watching you. You're so innocent and cute. You bring a smile to everyone around you. You draw people in with your eyes and conversation. I love spending these days with you while your big sister is at school. You're my little peanut and I love you bunches!!

A Little Rock and Roll

2010-09-13T15:14:00.000-07:00

Over the weekend, Gabby got to go to her first rock concert to see Selena Gomez at the York Fair. We had a blast! For those of you who don't know Selena Gomez, she is the star on Disney's Wizards of Waverly Place and she also sings, obviously.

Gabby and I went with my friend Peggy and her daughter, Andrea. Peggy came up with the idea and I'm so glad she did because I never would have thought of it.

I'm so glad I was there to see the look on Gabby's face when Selena came out. It was pure excitement. The concert lasted for about 1 1/2 hours and we rocked the house the entire time. Surprisingly, I knew more songs then I thought I would and as I sang my little heart out, I looked over at Gabby to find she was doing the same thing.

Shoot Me! #13 of 52

2010-09-01T16:20:00.000-07:00

Shoot Me! Is it Thursday already? Every Thursday I will be participating in "Shoot Me" hosted by Forever In Blue Jeans. You too can play. Click here to sign up and to see the other participants. Here are the rules:

It's time to stop hiding behind that camera of yours. Your family is missing you in the picture. So it's time to post a picture of YOU (yes, you) every Thursday with your child, your spouse, your friend, your dog, or even by yourself. Just get in the picture, you'll be glad you did!

Our friends invited us to their river front property located on the Potomac River in WV. Somehow they convinced me to ride on an inter tube while being pulled with a wave-runner. Here I am holding on for dear life when I went airborne as the tube went whipping across the water and jumping waves from another boat at speeds faster then lightening!! I was determined to hang on. Glad you can't see the expression on my face.

I did it!

Wordless Wednesday

2010-09-01T16:11:00.001-07:00

From the ground up