Scrap Happy

Happy New Year!! Moving time!

2010-01-01T19:36:00.000-08:00

Happy new year to any of my "followers" that I may have left... It's been such a long time since I last wrote, and I don't blame anyone for "leaving" me. But for those of you who might still have me on their blog roll, thank you... I am not going to be posting on this blog any further, but will instead be posting on my new blog JOY at http://www.judijoy.blogspot.com/. The theme of my new blog about the JOY there is out in the world. I'll be posting every few days, but hopefully no less then once a week. (I would hope to be able to find JOY at least once a week!!!) So if you are so inclined, please join me in my quest to find JOY in the world!!

Homemade Chili in July

2009-09-26T18:42:00.000-07:00

Roger discovered how to use the pressure cooker! The result was this wonderful homemade chili! This again, was a Chef Jaque Pepin recipe.

Food Processing in July

2009-09-26T18:28:00.000-07:00

Roger and Danny decided they were going to try their hand at cooking dinner. They watched several episodes of Chef Jaque Pepin and decided on a menu. They started with potato pancakes, made homemade chili, and finished with a lovely pear dessert. To make the potato pancakes, Danny had to use a food processor. I didn't have one, so Roger bought one at Costco! Dinner was fantastic!!!!

Meatballs in July

2009-09-26T11:31:00.000-07:00

I was watching Throwdown with Bobby Flay this summer. He challanged a chef in New York to see who could make the better meatball. Great episode! The chef, Mike Maroni, won the throwdown. I had to try it! His meat balls are the best I have ever tried! Click here for the recipe. Enjoy!!!

Plinking in July

2009-09-26T11:21:00.000-07:00

Danny was plinking in the backyard with his airsoft gun. He hit one of the soda cans - it's flying off the box!! Nice way to spend a hot July afternoon.

Hot Days - July

2009-09-25T22:44:00.000-07:00

Heat wave in July. The hot air just burns the lungs... Way too hot for me!!!

I'm Back

2009-09-12T14:43:00.000-07:00

Greeting all! It's been a while since I've been here and I am sorry about that. I've got a few pictures to share with you, so please don't give up on me and check back again shortly. I hope to post a few this evening or tomorrow!! See you soon

Dinner Anyone??

2009-08-07T21:47:00.001-07:00

CAUGHT by Danny

CLEANED by Roger

(INSPECTED by Clifford)

COOKED by Judi

Summer Meals - a Family Affair

Tennessee Map 196.365

2009-07-15T20:31:00.000-07:00

We put about 1,000 miles on our rental car. We traveled across the state twice! So much driving here and there and everywhere! It's good to be home!!

Nashville 195.365

2009-07-15T20:26:00.000-07:00

What kind of visit would it be to Nashville without going to the Grand Ole Opry? Here we are in front of the Opry prior to taking the tour.

The tour was fun. We saw various dressing rooms, the green room, and the backstage. The highlight, of course, was getting to go on stage. We even got to stand on the same spot where all the country great stand when they perform!!

Memphis Part II 194.365

2009-07-15T20:19:00.000-07:00

We stopped at the National Civil Rights Museum. It was pretty interesting. The tour takes you through the Lorraine Motel. You see the rooms that Martin Luther King, Jr. and his group occupied the days before his assassination. Then the tour takes you to the boarding home where James Earl Ray lived and the bathroom where he was when he fired the shot that killed MLK. It was interesting and eerie at the same time.

Memphis 193.365

2009-07-15T20:12:00.000-07:00

Welcome to Graceland!!! We took the tour of the mansion as well as other exhibits. Going through the mansion was like going back in time - back to the 70's! It was interesting to go through the rooms and learn more about Elvis. He accomplished so much in his short life.

We also went to Beale St. - home of the blues and rock and roll. These are some of the interesting signs on the street.

Kentucky Lake Part II 192.365

2009-07-15T20:09:00.000-07:00

One of the best things we did at Kentucky Lake was to go boating on Uncle Larry's pontoon and then swim in the lake. That was so much fun and so very relaxing!!

Kentucky Lake 191.365

2009-07-15T20:02:00.000-07:00

After spending a few days in Gatlinburg, TN, we drove about six hours west to Paris Landing, on Kentucky Lake. We visited my Tita Pat and Uncle Larry. These were the best two days of our trip. Uncle Larry fried up lots of catfish that he caught - yummy!! Then he cooked up some BBQ ribs - best ribs anywhere!!! Mom and Tita Pat spent every moment catching up with each other. We also lit lot of firecrackers. The kids enjoyed doing this - but not as much as the adults did!!

Great Smoky Mountains Day 190.365

2009-07-15T19:10:00.000-07:00

This little guy was just "hangin'" around just outside our condo. He was about 40 or 45 feet up in the tree. I was on the 5th floor when I took this photo. (We are in Gatlinburg, TN.)

We went hiking in the Great Smoky Mountains. These mountains are so lush and green. We hiked through the forest, enjoying the greenery and the rushing streams. We even walked over a few log bridges and up into a cave. We had so much fun.

Days 187 - 189 Start of Tennessee Trip

2009-07-15T14:46:00.000-07:00

Day 187.365

First day of family trip. Just a traveling day. We went on vacation with my brother's family, my mom and sister. There was a total of 10 of us traveling about the state of Tennessee. Here we are at the airport - neices Samantha and Selena, nephew Andrew, mom (Grandma Cat) and Danny. Grandma gave them 4th of July hats.

Day 188.365

We watched the fireworks from the main drag in Gatlinburg. It was an outstanding show with a phenomenal finale!!

Day 189.365

We were driving from Pigeon Forge to Gatlinburg with a thunderstorm hit. I was so glad that Roger was driving!! The rain was so hard and heavy, the windshield wipers couldn't keep up and we could hardly see. I was like someone shooting a water cannon at our car!!!

Days 183 - 186

2009-07-15T14:35:00.000-07:00

Day 183.365

Another Bunco night! I love spending time with these ladies!!

Day 184.365

Do you remember eating creamcicles (50-50 bars to some people)? These are the orange popcicles with the creamy center. My favorite!!! I found an outstanding recipe to make the creamcicles, but in a loaf that is easy to share for dessert!! YUMMY!!!

Day 185.365

Poor Clifford is hot! (and so am I!!) He goes from room to room to find the coolest spot to rest. I caught him on the fireplace hearth. Poor guy can't even fit on the thing!

Day 186.365

Pretty Pink Flower in a hanging basket. Makes me smile.

Green Apples 182.365

2009-06-28T22:16:00.000-07:00

I love to see fresh fruit in the fruit bowl on the counter.

BTW, today is day 182 of 365. I am half way through the year!

My First Tomato!! 181.365

2009-06-28T21:53:00.000-07:00

Anyone who know me, knows that I have a black thumb! When students give me flowers or plants as gifts, I rush them home to give to Roger. They have a better chance with him caring for them!! Anyway, my aide, Anne gave me a Purple Cherokee Tomato plant for my birthday way back in April. I eventually planted it in one of those Topsy Turvey things. I have been diligent about watering this plant. Today I spied my first tomato!!

Errands 180.365

2009-06-28T21:50:00.000-07:00

I'm off to run errands this afternoon. Right next to me in the car: my shopping list, the store ad, my reusable grocery bags (more in the back), and my purse... If Danny were with me, then he would be in the seat instead. :)

Sleepy Head 179.365

2009-06-28T21:40:00.000-07:00

I read on Ali Edward's blog about taking a picture of RIGHT NOW.

So, right now:

It's 8:00a.m.
My baby is "napping" after getting out of bed.
Right before this picture was taken, I had coffee in one hand and the crossword in the other.
We're both very glad it is summer vacation!!

Paper Crafting Project 178.365

2009-06-24T22:07:00.000-07:00

I started out with a pile of matchbooks and scrap patterned paper and turned them into this:

A box full of drawers...

There are 24 tiny drawers in this box. The original project was for an Advent Calendar.

Each drawer is painted and lined.

Hydrangeas 177.365

2009-06-24T22:05:00.000-07:00

Aren't these beautiful??!! I spied these Hydrangeas at Lowe's.

Junk Drawer 176.365

2009-06-24T22:01:00.000-07:00

After about 5 years, I FINALLY cleaned out and organized the junk drawer! Boy does it feel good to be able to actually open the drawer all the way!. Found this organizer many years ago, but it got buried under all the junk in the drawer. The section that holds the pencils and binder clips slides to the right and opens up to more compartments. It's nice that at least one drawer in my kitchen is organized... :)

Father's Day 175.365

2009-06-21T19:55:00.000-07:00

Happy Father's Day to Roger, the wonderful father to our son Danny. To Roger, Sr. the wonderful father to Roger, Jr. and me. To my father, Rafael, who though is not with us anymore, made me the person that I am today. I LOVE ALL OF YOU!!

Plane ride 174.365

2009-06-21T19:49:00.000-07:00

We were invited to a BBQ at a friend's hanger. Her husband is a pilot and gave me a ride in his Cessna 150. It's a small, two-seater - cramped quarters in the cockpit. Flew over the city for about 15 minutes. The white building / complex is the Mormon Temple. This was my first time in a small plane. I was nervous and a little worried because I get air sick when I fly on commercial planes. But this was not bad at all. My stomach lurched just a little on the descent. I can't wait to go up there again!!!

Palms 173.365

2009-06-21T19:47:00.000-07:00

This grove of palms is right next to a cloverleaf onramp of a freeway. I was waiting my turn for the metered light to get on the freeway, so I took the shot.

Dinner 172.365

2009-06-21T19:44:00.000-07:00

Danny likes simple dinners. So tonight we are having beans and ground turkey, seasoned with lots of garlic, oregano, salt and pepper served over rice. Very simple and scrumptious.

Refreshed 171.365

2009-06-21T19:41:00.000-07:00

My just watered tomato plant.

The plant is backlit by the sun. The water droplets are on the other side of the leaf.

Facebook

2009-06-16T18:13:00.000-07:00

Last Thanksgiving, my brother convinced me to join Facebook (FB). With some trepidation, I started inputting my information, added friends, and even posted what I was doing. At first, I was slightly addicted to it, wondering what my “friends” were doing, and taking quizzes – my Aura is purple and the band that represents me is Journey.

I have learned to enjoy my time on FB. I log on only every few days now, instead of every few hours. The best thing about FB is connecting with old friends. Today, I had lunch with my friend Cheri. Cheri found me on FB. We haven’t seen each other since high school – 23 years ago! Cheri was my very first friend I made when my family moved from Chicago to California. We were both 10 years old when we met. It was great to catch up with her after all these years, reminiscing about our families, and telling each other what our families are doing now. What a great way to spend the afternoon! I hope this reconnection will continue and that our old friendship be renewed.

Twilight 170.365

2009-06-16T12:12:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was my "official" first day of summer vacation. :) I spent the day reading Twighlight. It was the rage in the jr. high classes and even some of my 3rd graders started to read it. So, yes, I was sucked up into the hype, and sat down to read this book. I finished the 500 pages in two days! I must say, it was an easy read, but it did keep me flipping the pages. The story was enjoyable, the characters likeable (what's up with Rosalie??), and the action suspenseful. This is definitley a good summer book, beach book, traveling book, etc. I have already bought New Moon and am debating starting that one today or waiting a little bit. ( I really need to clean my scrapbook room and get restarted in some scrapping!!!)

Happy summer to all!

Wedding 169.365

2009-06-16T12:07:00.000-07:00

This past Saturday I attended the wedding of the daughter of a friend of mine. It was an elegant affair. The bride was stunning and the groom quite handsome. This is the wedding cake. I thought it was so cute that they had all the mini cakes for the guests to eat. The colors of the wedding were sage green, white and black.

Congratulations to Adam and Kelly!!

Textures and Patterns Days 162 - 168

2009-06-16T11:52:00.000-07:00

I enjoy textures and patterns. I think that is why I enjoy traditional scrapbooking over digital scrapbooking. I enjoy books that are tactile. So, the following photos have some sort of texture or pattern to them. These were shot on various walks that I have taken.

Palm tree trunk

Student mailboxes at the local University

Another palm tree trunk. I really like this one....

Still another palm tree trunk. close up

I needed to paint a pink pig for school. The art teacher gave me paper, but not butcher paper to paint the pig on. The paper had a glossy layer on the surface. When the paint dried, it crackled. I liked the look of it.

Tree bark

Trunk from a coniferous tree.

Card for a friend 161.365

2009-06-07T19:29:00.000-07:00

Homemade card for a friend. Hope it makes her feel better.

Spaghetti!! 160.365

2009-06-06T19:23:00.000-07:00

Spaghetti night!!! yummy!!!

Graduation 159.365

2009-06-05T19:15:00.000-07:00

Tonight was the 8th grade graduation. Here is Danny with his friend Kristine.

Strange Cloud Days Days 155 - 158.365

2009-06-01T18:46:00.000-07:00

We've been having strange weather. There were such strange clouds in the sky. They were eerie and fast moving.

Guest Blogger: Clifford 154.365

2009-05-31T17:32:00.000-07:00

This is the BEST thing about being me. My tail does so much for me. It wags and lets my people know how I'm doing, it keeps pesky flies away, and most importantly, it is the BEST thing to chase. I love my tail! It's too bad that my people don't have one for themselves.

Guest Blogger: Clifford 153.365

2009-05-30T17:25:00.000-07:00

I mentioned before that when the tall guy come back from being away a long time he likes to eat. The great thing is that he lets me eat with him. Here he is sharing a great crunchy snack with me. He is my snack buddy!!

Guest Blogger: Clifford 152.365

2009-05-29T17:16:00.000-07:00

I have a great yard to hang out in when my people are not here. Actually, I would rather be inside with my soft, fluffy thing I showed you, but they always trick me into going outside. I can't resist the cookies they give me when we go outside! The people have fences to keep me safe. But that means that I can't go outside the yard. This is what I can see when I look through the fence.

Guest Blogger: Clifford Part 4 151.365

2009-05-28T19:24:00.001-07:00

Woof! Hi everyone! My name is Clifford. One of my people, the pretty lady, usually writes on the computer. She said, this week I could write. This week, you are going to see things from my point of view. I hope you enjoy!

Here I am with my favorite inside thing! Soft...Fluffy. It's in the room where the tall guy and the pretty lady sleep. It is the first thing that I go to when the tall guy comes home from being gone a long time. Sorry... must go, it's nappy time.

Guest Blogger: Clifford Part 3 150.365

2009-05-27T19:16:00.000-07:00

(Woof! Hi everyone! My name is Clifford. One of my people, the pretty lady, usually writes on the computer. She said, this week I could write. This week, you are going to see things from my point of view. I hope you enjoy! )

This is my favorite thing outside. My people throw it around and I get it for them, then we try to figure out who will hold it. I usually win that game!

Guest Blogger: Clifford - Part 2 149.365

2009-05-26T20:30:00.001-07:00

Here is a regular meal. A bowl of crunchy things. Tastes okay. I eat it. What I look forward to is when the tall guy comes home after a long time away. We hang out in a room where there is lots of food and snack it up! Yummy!

Guest Blogger: Clifford - Part I

2009-05-25T19:58:00.000-07:00

Woof! Hi everyone! My name is Clifford. One of my people, the pretty lady, usually writes on the computer. She said, this week I could write. This week, you are going to see things from my point of view. I hope you enjoy!

Today, I'm looking at one of my people. He is so nice to me, he plays with me, pets me a lot and he feeds me. One of his favorite things to do is to hide from me somewhere in the house. He thinks I don't know where he is (but I do!) and he seems to enjoy this game so much, that I pretend not to find him for a while. I just run around the house, going from room to room, until he starts giggling. He is so funny! He is my buddy and I love him.

Helloooooo 147.365

2009-05-24T19:31:00.000-07:00

Is anybody in there??? Can I come in???

Soundtrack to Life 146.365

2009-05-23T18:44:00.000-07:00

Danny learned to play the ukelele this year in his music class. (Thanks, Mr. Turner!!!) There is a constant stream of ukelele music in our house now. Yes, he has learned the obligatory tune of "Pearly Shells".

Mighty Oaks 145.365

2009-05-22T21:18:00.000-07:00

Relaxing in the shade, under a mighty oak tree.

More Strawberries 144.365

2009-05-21T21:13:00.000-07:00

More glorious Buoye Strawberries!! At the Spring Festival, the 7th grade class sold Strawberry Shortcakes (yummy!!). They are raising money for their science camp to Catalina Island in September.

Flower 143.365

2009-05-20T20:49:00.000-07:00

Flower by Rabindranath Tagore

Pluck this little flower and take it, delay not! I fear lest it droop and drop into the dust. I may not find a place in thy garland, but honour it with a touch of pain from thy hand and pluck it. I fear lest the day end before I am aware, and the time of offering go by. Though its colour be not deep and its smell be faint, use this flower in thy service and pluck it while there is time.

American Gothic 142.365

2009-05-19T20:46:00.000-07:00

The school Spring Festival is on Thursday. The theme is (partly) Farming. Our art teacher painted this for the 5th grade to use as a fund raiser - for $1 you can have your picture taken with a friend! My friend and I were "testing" the picture for the art teacher...

Blooms 141.365

2009-05-18T20:44:00.000-07:00

I love spring!

April showers bring May flowers!!!

Anticipation! 140.365

2009-05-17T20:42:00.000-07:00

I can't wait to see what unfolds!

First Communion 139.365

2009-05-16T18:44:00.000-07:00

Today was my niece's First Communion. Selena did a great job!! Doesn't she looks so pretty in her white dress and veil? Actually, she couldn't wait to take it off so she could change into her bathing suit!!

Purple Passion 138.365

2009-05-15T18:38:00.000-07:00

Anyone who know me, knows that I am passionate about purple. Purple lunch box, purple clothes, purple jewelry, purple scrapbook room, purple nail polish, anything!!!

I think I now know why! I was at the bookstore to get a book for my class when I came upon Harold and the Purple Crayon. This was one of my favorite books as a child!!! I completely forgot about this bookOf course I had to get this book to add to my purple collection. Thanks to Mr. Crockett Johnson for my purple passion!!!!

Campaign Speech 137.365

2009-05-14T18:14:00.000-07:00

Today, Danny had to do his campaign speech. It turned out that he was running unopposed. Even so, he still had to write and present his speech. All the students running for office had to speak in front of grades 3 through 8. (On a side note, I must say that one great aspect of our school is the many public speaking opportunities the student have.) I think that all the students did a fantastic job. They are so brave to run for office and speak in front of the school!!!

Danny is happy that he will spend his 8th grade year as the Commissioner of Technology. I think that he is equally excited that his best friend, Austin, was also elected into Student Council. This kid had run each year he could, and has lost each year, except for this one! I jumped and screamed when his name was called ver the intercom! These two boys will have such a fun 8th grade year!!!

Confirmation 136.365

2009-05-13T18:08:00.000-07:00

Tonight is Confirmation at our church. As red is the color of Confirmation, the church is decorated with red flowers and linens. But as we are still in the Easter season, there is less red and much more white. This picture doesn't do the flowers justice, but trust me, this arrangement of orchids (I think) and greens is absolutely beautiful.

I want to wish Hayley "congratuations" on her Confirmation. May you continue to grow in God's Love...

Update 135.365

2009-05-12T17:57:00.000-07:00

Last fall I took a class that I thought was a photography class, but turned out to be a photoshop CS3 class. (I wanted to learn to take good photos - but ended up learning how to take any photo and make it look good...) After taking the class, I really, really, really wanted CS3. But alas, the cost was prohibative. :( What we could afford and what would be acceptable was Photoshop Elements 7. This is what the boys got for me for Mother's Day and it arrived today. :)

Boy am I going to have fun learning this program!!! It didn't come with a manual... Does anyone have any recommendations as to which book to purchase??? By the way, the photos that I am posting, were "fixed" using the Elements 7 and I can't quite figure out how to make the photos smaller on the web, so if you click on the picture to look at it, it is huge! Sorry about that... I will learn how to fix it soon. Thanks Rog and Dan!!!

"Green" Campaign 134.365

2009-05-11T17:44:00.000-07:00

Student Council campaigning started today. But let me back up about a week... One night at dinner, Roger, Danny and I were discussing which position Danny should run for in Student Council. He wanted to run, again, for Commissioner of Technology. Rog and I tried to convince him to run for another office and to let someone else take care of technology - someone needed to learn how to do the job since he wouldn't be at the school after next year. But Danny LOVES being the Commissioner of Technology and all that it entails. So much so that he said that if he didn't run for this office, he would rather not be in Student Council. So, since he was the one with the responsibilities and the duties, and not us, Rog and I agreed.

Now, he had to come up with a slogan and posters. We tried to think all weekend - but nothing! He wanted to use last year's slogan - "Don't Delete Dan", but I said that would be cheesey. As you can see, we went with cheesey. To my suprise, Danny still had the posters from last year! We changed the pictures, though. We did add something: There is a little white label on the bottom that reads, "This campaign ad is 100% recycled."

Good luck to my baby!!!

Two of My Three Kids... 133.365

2009-05-10T20:22:00.000-07:00

My other kid, my husband, took this picture. ; ) I am a VERY LUCKY and BLESSED mom to have these boys in my life!!!! Happy Mother's Day to All!!!

Marian Award 131.365

2009-05-08T16:54:00.000-07:00

Each May, our school has a May Crowning Mass in honor of the Blessed Virgin Mary. It is a beatutiful Mass, where the 8th graders, who are almost graduating, get all dressed up, have a lovely processional, and two of the 8th graders crown Mary with flowers.

As part of the Mass, Marian Awards are given to usually two 7th graders. The award winners do not know that they are the recipients until thier name is called. This year it was given to three of them. This is what the award says: You have displayed the qualities of our Blessed Mother. Mary showed us how to be humble, kind, honest, forgiving, friendly, and most importantly, she always said "yes" to God.

My sweet Danny was one of the recipients. He was surprised!!!

The other award recipients were Melissa and Kristen. All three students do display the qualities of our Blessed Mother. They are a blessing to their class and to our school.

Roger suprised Danny by being at the Mass!! We are so proud of him. He has been, and continues to be a blessing in our life.

What's inside your wallet?? 130.365

2009-05-07T21:20:00.000-07:00

wallet, coin purse, sunglass case, car keys, tissues, advil, lipstick, pens, comb, notepad, candybar, the camera that took this picture

Buoye Farms 129.365

2009-05-06T21:13:00.000-07:00

Danny's class spent the morning at Buoye Farms. They grow Christmas trees, squash, tomatos, Maui onions, other veggies, and the VERY BEST BERRIES in the world. These strawberries are huge and so sweet. They are picked daily when truly vine ripened. It would be sacraligious to put sugar on these berries!

The little mouse and the big hungry bear would love to share one of these!!

Ole!! 128.365

2009-05-05T19:11:00.000-07:00

Feliz Cinco de Mayo!!! Here is my dinner from one of our favorite places, Rosa Maria!!!

Lilies 127.365

2009-05-04T19:07:00.000-07:00

Today in class, we made Mother's Day boquets for our moms. Each lily is made by tracing a hand, cutting it out , rolling it into a cone, and attaching it to a straw. They turned out sooo cute! They are brightening up our classroom, until the students take them home on Friday.

Days 120 - 126

2009-05-04T18:09:00.000-07:00

I know that I haven't posted in a week!!! As with all of you, life gets a bit crazy. Please forgive me for this longer post. I hope you have the energy and interest to continue reading to the end. I hope you enjoy the photos.

This past week, we were preparing to go to Northern California for the State Junior High Academic Decathlon in Redwood City. (For a funny rendition of our trip, please vistit Roger's Blog.)Danny and his team have worked diligently for the past eight months, studying for this competition, in addition to their regular school work. They were one of nine schools competing. Unfortunately, they did not place in any categories. But what they did take away from the competition was the experience to compete in such a high level, the friendships they have developed, and the knowledge that they did their best. As his mom, I am so very proud of Dan - his determination and commitment.

Instead of a photo of the day, here are some photos of the city by the bay...

The weather... It rained on us the entire day we were in San Fransisco. That's okay... It gave us the gift of the beautiful flowers.

A view of the bay from one of the marinas.

Flowers enjoying a view of the Golden Gate Bridge.

Fisherman's Wharf... no really, this was a section of Fisherman's Wharf.

We were able to catch up with a high school friend (Tom G.) and his fiance. We haven't seen Tom since high school!! Here we are at Stanford University, where Tom is an alum. He gave us a tour around this beautiful campus. Thanks Tom!!!

This was a highlight for Dan's trip: our motel was right next door to a Ferrari / Maserati dealership!!! On Sunday morning, a Ferrari / Maserati club assembled, so we were able to take a gander at 20+ cars.

The Golden Gate Bridge. Even in the rain, she is breathtaking.

Joke Book 119.365

2009-04-26T16:42:00.000-07:00

The Academic Decathlon team at our school is going to the state competition soon. Our decathletes have been working hard, meeting as a group twice a week (4 hours total), and working with their subject coaches. Each class is sponsoring a decathlete or two, which means we pray for them, make them cards, and thinks like that. We sponsor three students - two class siblings and my Danny. Our class thought that because they work so hard, they need something to relieve the stress. We collected our favorite jokes and made them a joke book. Each student in our class will sign the inside of the book. We will present it to them just prior to the event.

Bridal Shower 118.365

2009-04-25T13:19:00.000-07:00

Last year I turned 40 - when did I become my mother's age??? Then, on my way to Kelly's bridal shower, I realized something. I am now really my mom's age. I am attending a bridal shower of a daughter of a friend of mine!!! I haven't been to a bridal or baby shower of any of my friends in, well, forever!!!

Here is Kelly admiring the scrapbook her sister, Kasey, made for her.

Me, Maria, Helen, Tammy, and Hailey enjoying the nice weather, fun decor, and each other's company.

Instead of cake, we had cupcakes. Aren't these just soooo fun????!!!!

Getting it Done!! 117.365

2009-04-25T10:48:00.000-07:00

This is Kasey. Her sister is getting married in June. The bridal shower is tomorrow.

Kasey is such a sweet young lady. She wanted to make a scrapbook (her first!) documenting the year leading up to her sister's wedding. She started it last summer (I think) but has not touched it since then - wedding plans and just life got in the way!!

My friend Helen is a Creative Memories consultant and was having a crop tonight. So, Helen and I helped Kasey finish her book, giving her tips on how to use the tools, helping her with layouts and putting the pages together. We had loads of fun and she was so appreciative to get the book together.

Helen and I will be at the shower tomorrow. We are going to be Kasey's fan club and OOhh and Ahh for her when her sister looks at each page. :) I know that Kelly is going to love it!!

Hibiscus Parts 116.365

2009-04-23T10:41:00.000-07:00

Spring has sprung!!

A closeup of the Stigmas of the Hibiscus. Kind of strange looking, don't you think??

The stigmas, the stamens (yellow parts) and the staminal column.

Clouds 115.365

2009-04-22T15:56:00.001-07:00

There were so many beautiful, puffy clouds overhead today. I used my telephoto lens to take these photos. I don't know which one to put into my Project 365 album. Which one would you choose??? Using photoshop, I took the original color photo, enhanced the colors then turned it into black and white. I do like the effect. Looks kind of spooky...

I like the contrast between the blue and white.

This one looks like a Biblical storm is a brewin'.

Okay, use your imagination. Can you see a cartoon frog head??? Danny can't. Please tell me that I'm not too crazy.

Shadow and Light 114.365

2009-04-21T15:53:00.000-07:00

This is a candle sconce in our family room. I rarely light it, but when I do, I truly enjoy the lights and shadows it casts on the wall.

Wash Day 113.365

2009-04-20T20:07:00.000-07:00

Two things were washed today, that haven't been washed in a long time... 1) My poor car has not seen a drop of water (except for rain) or a sud of soap in many months. I couldn't take it anymore! My black car looked gray. So off to the coin op car wash. Dan and I had quite a time trying to get the car washed within the limited amount of time our quarters allotted. In the end, my car did look a bit better.

2) Clifford. Poor Dear Clifford. When we first got him, he let me trim his nails. Once. After that, he would go run when he saw me approach with the clippers. He let me clean his ears. Once. After that, he wouldn't come near me when he saw me with the ear cleaning stuff. So off to the groomer he went today. Kind of like a dog spa: bathed, brushed, and a pedicure. He's not too happy with the doggy decor they put on him, though.

Then he broke out into a song. Aerosmith's "Dude Looks Like A Lady!"

Macro-Moth 112.365

2009-04-19T19:34:00.000-07:00

Another opportunity to work with my macro setting on my lens. This moth, which is about 2.5 inches long, was on a wall right outside our front door. Using a tripod and a stool, I was able to capture some of the detail of the picture. If you click onto the picture, you can see the "fuzz" of the head and wings.

Clifford & Me 111.365

2009-04-18T22:50:00.000-07:00

Tonight Danny and I were watching Marley & Me, about the world's worst dog. If you are a dog lover and have not yet seen it, you should. It is a funny movie!! While we were watching the movie, Clifford was outside, until the ending scenes. We started smelling an awful, acrid smell! We tried to call him in, but he was no where to be seen or heard, at least for a few minutes. Needless to say, he met up with a skunk. Dan and I think that the skunk was on the other side of the fence, though, because Clifford was not "too" smelly and wet.
So off to the bath we went. I did not have any tomato juice in the house and because it was late, the stores were closed. So, I had to improvise. Spaghetti sauce it is!! Clifford licked his chops as I spread the sauce on his face and also on his legs. It seemed to help, but there is still the smell in the house. Ewww!

Beautiful Day 110.365

2009-04-17T17:54:00.000-07:00

A view of the Chapel and the mall of the university from the Administration building. I was there taking care of paperwork for my credential. Today was such a beautiful day! Spring has finally sprung! It was in the low 80's and not a cloud in the sky!

It's a beautiful day
Don't let it get away
It's a beautiful day
- U2

Soul Sisters

2009-04-16T17:24:00.000-07:00

At the NCEA conference that I attended this week, I was able to see many nuns wearing their habits. This is interesting to me because nowadays, many nuns do not wear habits, but "regular" clothing. Anyway, I made it my mission that during the conference I would photograph as many sisters as I could. Here are a couple of wonderful sisters that I met during these past three days. I have never seen a purple nun!! Sr. Elizabethrose is from North Dakota. With her religious order, the sisters can wear regular cloths and the veil is optional. She choses to wear her veil. Sr. Anne is an Urseline nun from Nebraska. Her traditional habit is floor length.

Tea Party aka Tax Revolt 108.365

2009-04-15T17:10:00.000-07:00

Today is April 15th, Tax Day. To "commemorate" this day, many communities were holding Tea Parties to voice their "displeasure" of California's higher taxes and the nation's anticipated higher taxes. People were protesting the taxes but were also protesting the obscene, excessive spending by the government that is now occurring.

Roger took Danny to nearby downtown Redlands to participate in this event. There were about 500 people on the four corners of this intersection - not too shabby for this little town! It was very peaceful and civil. What a great way for Dan to learn first hand what is going on in our country today. It was good for him to see how passionate people can be about their communities and country.

NCEA Conference 107.365

2009-04-14T16:56:00.000-07:00

This week, the homeroom teachers and specialty teachers from my school attended the National Catholic Educators Association (NCEA) conference in Anaheim, CA. My colleague and friend, Kathy, not only attended the conference, but she was also a presenter. Here she is, pointing out when her session is! She talked about the importance of having a Student Success Team at each school in order to meet the needs of all students, from special needs to gifted students. Kathy has so much knowledge and enthusiasm for this topic, and I'm sure she did a fantastic job at her session. She wouldn't let any of us watch her!!

Of course, there are pleny of vendors at this convention. I had to stop at this booth for the photo op! The reason is that Danny's nickname at Academic Decathlon is Danford from Stanford. I would be so proud of Danny if he was accepted to Stanford! (However, I wouldn't be any less proud of any college that he attended.)

Easter Basket 106.365

2009-04-13T16:48:00.000-07:00

Last night I made this Easter Basket. One of my blog "buddies", Chrissy, made one and posted it on her blog. Inspired (or is it insanity??), I asked for the instructions, which she so generously gave. This is the result of my first try. I hope the next one I make (did I mention the insanity??) will be much better, as I know better what to do and what not to do.

Easter Greetings!! 105.365

2009-04-12T16:39:00.000-07:00

Oh! Danny is going to kill me when he sees this is the picture I decided to post!! I took this picture using the timer on my camera. Right before it took the shot, I tickled him. And now you see him giggling. I love to hear and see him giggle. It warms my heart.

I pray that all of you have a blessed Easter Season. During the 50 days of Easter, may your eyes and hearts be open to the beauty and blessings that our Lord gives to each of us. Happy Easter!

Easter Berries 104.365

2009-04-11T16:33:00.000-07:00

I had a plan. A great plan. A plan that Roger would LOVE. My plan was to have strawberries on angel food cake for dessert on Easter (tomorrow!!). My plan involved going to Buoye Farms to get strawberries. They have the BEST strawberries in the universe! They are as big as the palm of my hand and as sweet as heaven! You wouldn't dare put sugar on a Buoye berry! Well, I arrived at the farm at 12:30 and they were sold out!!!! I couldn't believe it!! I would not have a single Buoye berry in Easter! Alas, we had to settle for the inky dinky berries from the grocery store...

Good Friday 103.365

2009-04-10T18:14:00.000-07:00

We adore You, O Christ, and bless You. Because by Your holy cross You have redeemed the world.

Geek Squad 102.365

2009-04-09T22:19:00.000-07:00

Guest Blogger: Roger (as posted on his blog Roger's Smoking Lounge)

I realized the other day that we have our very own in-house geek squad (of one). It is amazing how childhood can differ so much from one generation to the next. The other day I was explaining to my son Danny how “in the old days, we had to look words up in the dictionary and then flip back and forth to the pronunciation key to figure out how to speak the words – we didn’t have the little sound button on dictionary.com.”

Dan has an old IBM laptop that he is allowed to use for experiments (he upgraded it of course). I really don’t know what he is talking about half of the time. I catch a phrase now and then and try to understand. He has been intrigued with Linux operating systems. I told him that he could try things, but not to remove the Windows OS from the computer. What I heard from him was “…partition the hard drive…or a create multi-boot system…Puppy Linux operates through the RAM…or I could…”

My response: blank stare and then “yeah, partition the hard drive, right – ok” How the heck does a 13 year old know all of this stuff? We’re sure glad to have our own in-house technician though.

Heart 101.365

2009-04-09T22:05:00.000-07:00

At the morning assembly, one of my students excitedly asked me if I had my camera with me (they know me well!) because there was a heart on the ground. Sure enough there was! The microphone wire ended up on the ground in this heart shape. Purely accidental... Perhaps Someone was telling us they love us. :)

Daytime Moon 100.365

2009-04-07T22:03:00.000-07:00

Here I am at the university again, waiting while Danny is at his music lesson. I spied the almost full moon. Isn't it marvelous to see the moon during the day??

Guard Dog 99.365

2009-04-06T21:57:00.000-07:00

Here is my guard dog, Clifford, on duty in front of my scrapping casita. I was scrapping and there he was, sitting at the door, making sure that I was safe. (and chasing moths!) What a good dog! Love him to bits!!

Days 91 - 98

2009-04-05T18:59:00.000-07:00

I haven't posted all week! Life has been busy - just like everyone!! So here we go:

Birthday Girl!! 91.365
We are celebrating Connie's birthday. This wonderful woman is my mother-in-law. She is the BEST m-i-l in the entire world. She is there for us always and loves me as her own.

Trees w/ yellow blooms 92.365

I was driving home today when I spied this amazing tree. I immediately pulled over and took many pictures of the tree. Another person saw me taking pictures and started up a conversation about the trees. We both had never seen such a tree and could not tell what it was. It is truly remarkable what there is out in the world! Doing this Project 365, I have noticed so much more, especially since I carry my camera everywhere!!

Labyrinth 93.365

This is the Labyrinth at the university. It is a beautiful, peaceful place. From lessons4living.com: A labyrinth is an ancient symbol that relates to wholeness. It combines the imagery of the circle and the spiral into a meandering but purposeful path. The Labyrinth represents a journey to our own center and back again out into the world. Labyrinths have long been used as meditation and prayer tools. A labyrinth has only one path. It is unicursal. The way in is the way out. There are no blind alleys. The path leads you on a circuitous path to the center and out again.

I have walked several labyrinths in the past few years. As my mind is always busy, walking the labyrinth is an extremely challenging exercise for me - to focus myself to one thought, prayer, meditation. But in the end, I am so much more at peace. If you ever get a chance, give it a try.

Spoiled Dog 94.365Clifford is such a spoiled dog!! Danny is scratching his belly with a backscratcher! He is enjoying every scratch!!!

Spring at sunset 95.365Just playing around with my camera. Catching shadows and light in the Liquid Amber trees in the backyard.

Fountain 96.365

This is a fountain at a local shopping center. I love to sit here, drink my Chai Tea Latte, and watch the children "play" in the water. What is so cute, is during the summer, some kids really do play in the fountain!

Figs 97.365

This is a fig tree in our backyard. My father-in-law (The best in the world!!) gave us a sappling that started growing in his front yard. It has grown nicely. HOWEVER, the figs are inedible! Each year we cut them open, to find a spongey texture, that is almost poweder-like. The dog and the neighborhood skunks like them though...

Palm Sunday 98.365
Today is Palm Sunday. The gospel reading is the Passion of Christ. This environmental decor reminds us that Peter denied Christ three time before the cock crowed. And he wept. Sitting in church, looking at the rooster, I contemplated the times I denied Christ. How many times have we each been unfaithful to God? How many times have we denied God to worship something else - money, power, possessions? I love Peter. He gives me hope. In one breath, he tells Jesus that he would die for Him. In the next breath, he doesn't know Him. Yet, there he is, holding the keys to the kingdom, the foundation for His Church. God loves each one of us in spite of ourselves. I pray that each one of you have a reflective Holy Week.

We're in the Clear! 90.365

2009-03-28T20:22:00.001-07:00

We did it! Maria, Robert, Kathy, and I needed to take 4 classes to clear our teaching credentials, as our school/diocese does not have an induction program. We took the weekend classess (12 weekends!) in Oct., Jan, Feb, and Mar. Today was our last class!! Yipee!! We now have to submit the required paperwork to the unversity and they will send it to the proper state agency. We can't believe it!! P.S. Happy Birthday, Robert!!

Would you like some cheese with my Whine?? 89.365

2009-03-27T19:27:00.000-07:00

Wah, Wah, Wah!! I am feeling miserable, again! The older I get, the more allergies I seem to have. My allergies started acting up yesterday and I feel like crap! I have not felt fully recovered since mid-December. Wah, wah, wah. Thank you for letting me Whine!!

Creative Chaos 88.365

2009-03-26T20:01:00.000-07:00

A view of my desk on a typical Thursday afternoon. I'm trying to finish my lesson plans for next week. My aide's desk is right next to mine - her desk is as cluttered as mine. :) Our desks are not cluttered, it is our creative juices flowing!!!

Wonderful Dinner 87.365

2009-03-25T19:56:00.000-07:00

One of our favorite places to go for the best burritos in the area!!! So good and convenient that their phone number on my cell phone speed dial!!!

Sundial 86.365

2009-03-24T19:21:00.000-07:00

Danny's sax lesson day. That means Clifford and I walked around the university campus. One great site is this sundial placed on the side of one of the science buildings. It is a functioning sundial. I think this is soooo cooool!!

Wind 85.365

2009-03-23T20:51:00.000-07:00

It was a bit windy today!!!

Violin 84.365

2009-03-22T20:40:00.000-07:00

Danny was practicing his sax and asked me if I could show him how to play my violin. I started playing when I was in 5th grade (I thought it would be easier then the piano!!) and continued to play through high school. When I was in Jr. High, my dad bought this for me from the concertmaster from the local symphony. It is French, made in 1893. I put the orange yarn on the case when I first got the violin. I don't play anymore, but like to take it out a couple times a year.

Sunset 83.365

2009-03-21T20:37:00.000-07:00

View of sunset on the way home from somewhere. The sunset reminded me of t-shirts that were popular in the late 70's - early 80's by OP.

Spring has Sprung!! 82.365

2009-03-21T15:26:00.000-07:00

Today is the first day of spring! Lovely daffodils from Trader Joe's...

Fireplace Mask 81.365

2009-03-20T15:20:00.000-07:00

My parents purchased this mask on our vacation to the Philippines way back in 1976. It has hung over our fireplace. Then, in 1991, my mom put it out for a garage sale. Oh no!! Thank goodness I was able to rescue him before someone else got him! Since I got him, he has hung over my own fireplace. I can't imagine anything else in that spot.

80.365

2009-03-18T15:15:00.000-07:00

I went to Trader Joe's today to pick up a few things. I love going there because they always have a great display of flowers and plants for sale. Being that I have a black thumb, I rarely get any for me, lest they die within a few days!!

2009-03-17T21:42:00.000-07:00

Top of the mornin' to ya! Here is our corned beef and cabbage dinner. Yum!!

In honor of St. Patrick, this prayer is part of his breastplate:

Chirst be with me, Christ within me,
Christ behind me, Christ before me,
Christ beside me, Christ to win me,
Christ to comfort and restore me,
Christ beneath me, Christ above me,
Christ in quiet, Christ in danger,
Christ in hearts of all that love me,
Christ in mouth of friend and stranger.

Driving Miss Judi 78.365

2009-03-16T21:39:00.000-07:00

Here I am driving back to school for a meeting. Compared to the rest of the nation, my commute is pretty easy - only 13 minutes!!