Happy House of Haas

STOP BULLYING...NOW!

2011-12-05T13:46:00.001-08:00

We need to STOP BULLYING!!! Do your part!

Don't walk away, step in and intervene!!

Report the crime right away!

STOP BULLYING NOW!!!
Remember...Jonah I love you and your worthy of love!
You do have a million reasons to be here! And I and
many more of us believe in your strength!

Much Love,

BookSneeze Review: Lies the government told you

2011-09-30T19:36:00.000-07:00

Dear Bloggers, I need to do a review of this book I have read. Interesting comes to mind at first, but once I opened and read the first 3 chapters I had a different thought...WOW, this man took some guts and really put it out there.

Throughout our history, the federal government has lied to send our children off to war, lied to take our money, lied to steal our property, lied to gain our trust, and lied to enhance its power over us. Not only does the government lie to us, we lie to ourselves. We won't admit that each time we let the government get away with misleading us, we are allowing it to increase in size and power and decrease our personal liberty.

In acquiescing to the government's continuous fraudulent behavior, we bear partial responsibility for the erosion of our individual liberties and the ever-expanding federal regulation of private behavior. This book attacks the culture in government that facilitates lying, and it challenges readers to recognize that culture, to confront it, and to be rid of it.
Please go to BookSneeze to check out other reviews.

Much Love,

Where my LOVE of Moroccan Mint Green Tea came to be...

2011-09-15T22:19:00.000-07:00

All of this started with my darling friend Rob...you ask how. Well, this man is extraordinarily healthy in almost all septum's. We have known each other for a couple of years now, and I have always turned to Rob, with any of my health inquires.

In fact, Rob and I became fast friends quite quickly, not with just the my health inquires but with all things in each others lives. We were fast to discover so many 'likenesses' and 'loves'. I find Rob incredibly intelligent and love that mind of his (and let you in on a little secret, he is gorgeous to boot...lol)! I tell him all the time..."I love that brain of yours!". I have come to trust Rob with so many things in my life, he is truly an incredible friend and man. I share this with all of you, because I have shared so many people in my life's story, that I needed to introduce you to this HEART worthy friend. Trust me when I say...he has become one of my dearest friends. I absolutely love this man...this man who is my best friend, Rob!

OK, so I digress. It was Rob who first introduced me to the Moroccan Mint Green Tea! Since that fateful day, I am a true addict. I have a huge pitcher in my fridge, I drink it cold and over ice about 3-4 times a day. And from the first day of me partaking in this life's little pleasure, it has done this body good! I feel SO much better, from inside to out! And from doing the research online, I see it does SO much more! And the biggest plus...IT TASTES SUPERB! So, my darling blogging friends, please go...and buy a box, brew it, ice it, sit down with a good book and partake in a refreshing pause! That is not only yummy to the tummy, but also the best thing one can do for one's body and mind! ENJOY!

There is just something about a refreshing cup of mint tea that can make even the worst day seem just a little brighter. With just enough zing to delight our taste bugs, we enjoy the taste and often gain a sense of well being from settling into a favorite chair and sipping along for a time. But what truth is there to the legends of minted teas? Do they really have something about them that can raise our spirits or in general enhance our well being?

Here are some of the claims made for teas with mint and what they can actually do for us. For many years, minted herbal teas have enjoyed the reputation of providing recuperative powers to both the body and to the mind. There is no doubt that most of us find mint to be refreshing and desirable in many different ways. Many of us enjoy after dinner mints because of the way that mint can help to cleanse our palates. Quite a few of us enjoy the taste of chocolates seasoned with mint flavor when we take in a matinee at our favorite movie theater.

We may add a sprig of fresh mint into some of our recipes. So it should come as no surprise that we would enjoy a tea that is made with brewed mint leaves. The taste alone can help us to achieve a lighter mood. It can certainly be said that minted herbal tea has the ability to enhance our moods, even if indirectly. When it comes to physical ailments, many people will swear by the use of mint tea as an effective and natural way to deal with an upset stomach. The mint is thought to be an excellent way to calm a sense of nausea, as well as soothe a fever and help to calm the chills of the common cold. The mint herb tea is a quick and easy way to introduce the mint and its healing powers into the body, calming the ailing person and allowing them to have enough relief that he or she can get some rest and begin to heal. When it gets down to it, mint tea can indeed help ease some ailments, and help make your day seem a little better.

The fact that the tea has an excellent taste just makes the experience of drinking mint herbal tea all the more satisfying.

Mint has been used for medicinal purposes for thousands of years with it's origins in Europe and Asia. There are many varieties of mint, by far the most popular for tea making is Peppermint. Mint contains a number of vitamins and minerals which are vital to health including Vitamins A and C, iron, calcium and magnesium and it is thought to have a number of healing properties, five of which are outlined below:

1. Relieves Indigestion The symptoms associated with indigestion have been found to be eased by drinking Mint tea which helps to move food quickly through the stomach, and also by the calming effect it has on the stomach muscles.

2. Cold & Flu Treatment The active ingredient in Mint is menthol which acts as an effective decongestant and an expectorant that will promote the loosening of chesty coughs. Dry coughs can also benefit from it's calming properties.

3. Relieves Upset Stomach Mint's relaxing properties can unbind the muscles of the abdominal area and can help relieve menstrual cramps and other muscular complaints. Oil in the Mint leaf can reduce gas and stomach bloating.

4. Relives Irritable Bowel Syndrome Mint tea is thought to be extremely useful for Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) cramps as it calms the muscles of the stomach and increases gastric juice production.

5. Mild Sedative Drinking Mint tea can act as a mild sedative aiding relaxation, and when drunk before going to bed may reduce insomnia.

This is the list of benefits of green tea which I’ve found during my research online.

It is used to treat multiple sclerosis.
It is used for treatment and prevention of cancer.
It is used to stop Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases.
It is used to raise the metabolism and increase fat oxidation.
It reduces the risk of heart diseases and heart attacks by reducing the risk of thrombosis.
It reduces the risk of esophageal cancer.
Drinking green tea inhibits the growth of certain cancer cells, reduces the level of cholesterol in blood, improves the ratio of good cholesterol to bad cholesterol.
It is used to treat rheumatoid arthritis and cardiovascular diseases
It is used to treat impaired immune function. .
Some researches show that, drinking green tea regularly may help prevent tooth decay by killing the bacteria which causes the dental plaque.

I truly hope my blogger friends that you give this 'Nectar of the God's' a try! Trust me when I tell you that you will shortly fall in love with the taste and all the healthy side effects of this magical drink!

Much Love,

Labor of Love Halloween Blog Hop

2011-09-02T00:29:00.002-07:00

Bloggers! Welcome to Happy House of Haas...I can't say enough how much fun you are going to have hopping and checking out the wonderful banners of other bloggers! This wonderful lady from The CardMonkey's Paper Jungle ,Ellen, started this for her children! Yes, her kids from PSC!

Ellen works as a Admissions Dirertor for the Pediatric Specialty Care (PSC) and wanted to cheer the children up this Halloween season. How you ask? With bloggers from all over the world making Halloween Banners to be hung in the children's rooms. Truly a fantastic idea! I had to jump on board! A great cause and just the thought of children enjoying the banners made my heart smile! So, without further delay let the hopping begin! Enjoy bloggers! I can't wait to dive in to the hop myself!

Next one on the list is Lisa, Bit by the Cricut Bug!!! Please have fun and maybe next time around you will consider joining in on this wonderful good cause! Happy Hopping Bloggers!

Much Love,

Fun Ideas for Valentine's Day...

2011-01-10T15:23:00.001-08:00

I can't tell you how much I love blogging, I find new ideas for crafts and scrapbooking from all the blogs I follow. Today I wanted to share a few great ideas from some fellow bloggers. I will post some pics and then link them to their sites, so you too can enjoy what their blogs have to offer! First and foremost I can't thank the blogs I follow enough for always providing great posts and ideas! I have a binder filled to the brim with all the wonderful ideas! I have done some and some I will do 'one day', please keep it up my fellow bloggers, because this blogger for one....LOVES all the posts!

Here is a fun and simple idea from Brown Paper Packages: Candy Heart Bracelets

And this darling card made by no other than Kimberly from Stampin' by the Sea. I ADORE her blog, she sells Stampin' Up and really knows her stuff! I found her through blogging and fell in love with her style and her beautiful 'how-to's'! Enjoy ladies this beautiful card!

Ladies!!!! You are going to LOVE this idea! It's from one of my most favorite blogs TaterTots & Jello.
Here is her beautiful, Whimsical Cupcake Liner Valentine's Door Wreath!

Well lovely ladies, I hope you have fun bouncing from blog to blog to get some great crafting ideas for 'your' Valentine!!! Leave a comment on what your favorite blog is! Tootles!
Much Love,

Winner! Winner! Chicken Dinner!

2011-01-04T20:12:00.000-08:00

(card done by Regina Mangum over @ the stampin' bean blog)

Oh Ladies!!! We have a winner of the overstuffed 9x12 envie! The winner was done by Random.org, and since I had 72 comments, I put in 1 thru 72 and the number generated was 69!!!!

And so, the lovely lady who is: PINK BLING CRAFTER!!

Congratulations! I will contact you on your blog or email, and if you can then send me your addy I will get that right out for you!

This was super fun and hope to be invited to do more by people! I will always have blog candy to give away! So, let the blog hop's begin!
Much Love,

New Year's Thank You Blog Hop!!!

2010-12-31T10:00:00.000-08:00

Welcome to my Blog, and the New Year’s Thank You Card Blog Hop! If you've come from visiting Corri @ Bug Lover Cards, you're in the right place.

At first, I was quite nervous to display one of my simple cards. I am truly at the beginning to learn how to make cards. When Jennifer asked me to join in the fun, I just couldn't pass it up. I had so much with the last one and I didn't even submit a card! Without any further waiting, here are two of the same image but different color schemes! Enjoy!

Also, to make it even more fun, I am including some yummy blog candy. Here is all you have to do. Leave me a comment (and where I can contact you) AND become a FOLLOWER of my blog!!! See simple right ladies! Do both things and you will be entered! The yummy blog candy will be a 9 X 12 envie stuffed to the seams with some scrap booking items, some fun items, some yummy items, etc!!

Next stop on the New Year's Thank You Blog Hop is
MADISON @ FUNKY CARDS.

If you were just looking at my blog and want to play along with our blog hopping fun, you can go to the beginning at Crafty Card Gallery. This blog hop is intended to help you get ideas for Thank You Cards. I know I have a ton to make, and appreciate ideas when I get them. There will be opportunities to win some blog candy or get ideas to help you with your New Year’s Resolutions! So sit back, and enjoy the hop! I know I can't wait to see all the fab cards! Thanks again Jennifer for hosting this Blog Hop!
Much Love,

Happy Thanksgiving!

2010-11-28T00:04:00.000-08:00

Hoping everyone were with their loved ones on Thanksgiving! Jim and I had a super great time with my mom and dad and mom's friend, Betty! Great food and great conversation. And then we played a couple board games and really got our laugh on.
It was a great day, and Jim and I are truly blessed to have so much to be thankful for.

Much Love,

Book Review: A Year with God

2010-11-16T22:58:00.000-08:00

A Year with God is a book that can be used as a daily devotional or as a devotional as needed. Even if one doesn't pick up the Bible daily, I highly suggest reading one devotional a day from this well written book.

The great thing is that the book numbers the days (ex. day 1, day2, so on) rather than dating them (ex. Jan 1, 2010). It allows the reader to start at any calendar date. Another good aspect to this book, is it's content pages. Say for example, the reader, needed to find something on fear, all you would have to do is look it up and go directly to that devotional.

Therefore, I highly suggest this book for the reader who either wants to tackle it as a daily devotional or the reader who needs to focus on a particular devotional.

Much Love,

Treats in the mail...

2010-10-10T00:13:00.000-07:00

Here is what came in today from Frugalities.com. Oh! Happy day, I love getting things from frugalities, first the way they wrap everything together! It is just super fun to open!
Here are the items:

Letters to Mod Podge and embellish! Yeah!

Every girl needs a good pair of tweezers for that 'delicate' job in embellishing!

Flower...and more flowers!

A new product for me...mini vintage images. Good for my alter art projects!

Another new product for me...mini transparencies. I can't wait to try this out on some pages or alter art.

A fun pad of Halloween paper, which I am now using to make a guest book for a friend's Halloween party.

Paper with crowns on it...are you kidding me?! What gal doesn't need this!

And all this was 'free' items that Frugalities just throw in to finish off the packaging process! I love it! Free stuff!

And wait I received one more package!

I received this once I joined Cricut Circle, and elite Cricut group. So, we recieved new cartridge and a special trinket! In this case a braclet for me!

I love this group, we have challenges to try and win BIG prizes and have access to exclusive deals from Provo Craft. I love this group!
Well friends, enjoy the eye candy! And hope to have a few projects photographed to display here soon!
Much Love,

Afghanistan or Bust...

2010-09-13T18:02:00.000-07:00

This post will be filled with mixed emotions! I have a very good friend named Cameron, who is going to be leaving at o'dark thirty on a military cargo plane headed to a hostile placed called...Afghanistan. He is with the 101st Airborne Division...he is a medic! Probably the most dangerous job in the Army, well as of right now, since snipers are trying to pick them off one by one.

I will pray every day till he is home safely, I will pray that he does his job well, I will pray for his family, I will pray that what he sees over there doesn't change his beautiful heart.

He chose to serve this great country of ours and he will do it with great honor and pride. We are very proud of Cam, and wish him the best, it's not good bye my dear friend...it's till next time!

GOD SPEED CAMERON! HOOAH!
Much Love,

August - Mystery Trip

2010-09-04T20:17:00.001-07:00

Adrien's month and she planned a fun, easy day! It first started out with an early dinner at a great place...Capital Dawg! It's all about hot dogs folks! You name it they got it! Great food and great customer service and great prices! And since Adrien doesn't like beef they have turkey or veggie dogs too! That you can have in ANY order!

I had this yummy hot dog...the Governor Dawg! Heck ya! If your going to do it do it big!

I have been living in Sacramento for over 20 years and NEVER knew this place existed! For all my local blog followers and those who are coming to visit! Gotta make this a stop on your list of things to see and eat at!

We were a bit early for our 'event' (I will get back to that soon...) so we decided to go in and have an ice tea and relax before we got into our event! This is a wonderful place in a very historic part of Sacramento, in it's hay day it was quite the cat's meow, the area that is. But over the years the area fell into disarray and lots of crime and gang activity turned it into a nightmare in Sacramento. Things are on the mend and changing quite a bit in this place...Oak Park! This coffee/bakery shoppe is a fabulous turn about for that community. It was beautiful inside. I highly suggest you take in a lunch and iced coffee here! Fantastic customer service!

And NOW for the best part! The Fundraising Event to collect money for the animal shelters in Sacramento county for the FOOD for these animals! Cats, dogs, rabbits, horses you name it they support it! It was a great evening with Lee Perkins as host (Radio celebrity for V101.1), and fun raffle prizes which we won a great one (well actually Adrien won, but since I was there with her I win by default...lol) to L Wine! So we might have to do a movie day and take in a cocktail afterwards! You know...a girlie day! We love those type of days! Don't we Adrien?!

Truly a great night with my Best Friend Adrien! She opened my eyes to a new facet to our mystery trips...fundraisers! I love the idea of helping our community out and we have some great causes out in Sacramento and surrounding areas! I loved the simpleness of this Mystery Trip and loved it even more the way my heart felt after the 'event' knowing I helped out at a great organization! Till our next Mystery Trip!
Much Love,

July Mystery Trip - 2010

2010-07-25T19:45:00.001-07:00

Blogging world friends...here is the latest Mystery Trip for Adrien and I. It was my month, and believe me, July I had alot of things to choose from. My mom gave me this idea, due to her taking my dad there from a prompting from the Sacramento Bee. Not only did we get to see the whole Aerospace Museum of California but also our tickets got us in to see the Star Trek Exhibit!!!! Hit the highlighted link to see what I am talking about. Now we couldn't take pics in the Star Trek Exhibit but they had two stations where we paid someone to take our pics...sitting on the Upper Deck of the Enterprise and the Transporter Room. Cute pics! We took in the static displays on the outside first since it would be heating up rather quickly. Here is what we saw!

Some really great static displays! I am just blown away how beautiful this complex is. I had no idea that they had rebuilt the Aerospace Museum of California...I was used to the dirty ol' hangers on McClellan. I am telling you if you live here or come visit! This my friends is must see! The whole complex is stunning, and the volunteers that work there, are beyond knowledgeable, some of them are the same pilots who flew some of those planes. Get yourself and your family over to this wonderful part of California history...it truly was an eye opener!

After we took in this great museum it was off to lunch! I planned it out so we went to a brand new restaurant up in Roseville called: Dave & Buster's, it's the adult version of Chucky Cheese

They have some great specials...called eat & play! So, this was the chicken tacos plate YUMMY! And then we got our gaming on...seriously!

See! Since my best friend looks way cuter than me...I showed her getting her game on!

Then after all that gaming, we need a cold treat! Big Spoon was a perfect ending to a perfect day!

Much Love,

A thing of beauty...

2010-07-21T16:27:00.000-07:00

I wanted to share a product that Hunky Hubby and I just installed in our home. On the recommendation of our friend - Jake Mason - we made the plunge to purchase a Levolur Cordless Cellular Shade in the color of Sand. Both of them went to Lowe's last night and picked it up...and as easy as I throw in a load of laundry, Jake and Hunky Hubby had the old one out and new shade installed!

Today, the house is much cooler and we are now able to watch television during the day. The house we are renting was built in the 1940's so not the most perfect design placement of the big picture window. The window is fully exposed in the early afternoon sun all the way till the sun sets. The sun just pours in the window which in the summer is not something you want when it is 105 out. My house at one time would run as high as 90 degrees inside. Now it is a beautifully cool 71...RIGHT NOW and it is almost 90 degrees outside! And we watched some television this morning with no sitting in a weird angles to see the screen due to a glare on the screen!

I am pleased as punch that I...no WE have a wonderful, wise friend as Jake Mason! What a blessing that man is to our little family! Jake we love you and are blessed to call you our friend, thanks for helping us!
Much Love,

Here's our wishlist for camping gear...

2010-07-18T21:54:00.000-07:00

Here are a few things I have put on a wish list for the Haas's. Since everyone has an opinion about what works best for them...I, too have some opinions now too. The last camping trip has opened our eyes to what we would like our camping trip to be like...and comfort and convenience is what we are looking for. And the first place we started is with the grill. Jim and I both agreed if your going to do it...then do it right. We are not big fans of Coleman (smaller stoves)...don't get me wrong it's all right and most people use this brand. But again, as our opinion goes we want something with a lot more power and space. Those small Coleman stoves won't cut it for us. We plan on camping with a usual group of 4-6 people and we need some cooking power and space. The last camping trip...it took forever to cook things and then once you did one thing you had to set it off to the side (or by the fire to keep warm). We want to be able to do dual items without our food getting cold. Here is what we are saving our pennies for (because if you know us...we don't do credit...only cash). We think this unit ROCKS!

Now we know some peeps will be poop-pooing us on our selection, due to their love for the Coleman stove. They can keep it(just poking the bear for those who use the Coleman...still have love for those peeps)...this is the Camp Chef 3 burner Big Gas Grill III. And this baby has some power and will really be an asset for the Haas's crew!

Next item up is this kick-butt grill/griddle combo. It has room on it for some serious Q'ing and griddling (Jim's kick-ass pancakes). Again...big and roomy so we can get more done so we are not serving ONE person at a time...geesh! that was a chore! This is called Camp Chef Reversible Grill/Griddle combo. Heck YA!

And I think buying a higher quality cooler is a must. I know most people (and us included) think a cooler is a cooler. Alas, I have now changed my mind...it's allowed folks!! I want to invest in a great cooler. And according to Consumer Reports this cooler keeps ice solid for 2 days straight...heck ya baby! If kept our ice solid for 2 days straight...which to me is great, then no more worries about soggy food or worrying if food gets water logged. And through my research I discovered this cooler...The YETI TUNDRA 45 Quart Cooler. Now they do have smaller sizes, which is excellent if you are camping with a smaller crowd or want things in two or three coolers. Our thinking is everything in ONE cooler saves on space. I have done alot of research on all our camping gear on our wish list. Through Consumer Reports and Camping Digest and through personal experience. We are putting money way as I type, so we can start purchasing our gear. But the rule stands...don't have the cash for it...then we just have to wait to get it!

(a view looking over the Russian Gulch...we love this area!)

It will be a slow process as Jim and I are not one's who do everything on credit cards as others do. We are strictly a cash couple. Better budget and better credit. Now of course that is us, but for the 2 years we have been doing that...we let's just say are kicking butt on staying on our budget and our credit scores are gaining momentum. We have all been hit with financial woes, some more than others. For Jim, who works for the state we took a hit in the paycheck. When that happened we decided right then and there...we would tightened up our belts BIG TIME! We paid off our credit cards and started to chip away at college dept. It has been a slow process and at times we both get frustrated that we can't just go out and buy...buy as some others. But our choices have given us some financial breathing room.

And now that I have been reintroduced to camping again, I feel that this would be a cheaper route to enjoy this great state and get some time away with friends. And a cheaper vacation. Without forking over big money for tickets to events or hotels, etc. Jim and I have some friends who have showed us how easy and fun camping can be...(well...some of the time, it can't be perfect every minute...can it??) and that with a little bit of an investment the gear pays for it's self in the end.

So...Happy Trails friends...and I am even going to suggest that EVERYONE give tent camping a try! Or if you have an RV, get out there and enjoy this great state!
Much Love,

Camping at Salt Point State Park

2010-07-13T20:00:00.000-07:00

On the road, off to my first camping trip in years! This is little Kyra and Aiden listening to a movie! Kids did great for a 3 hour trip. Laura and I not so good...road was super curvy and both got a bit car sick! But we soon perked up!
First camping trip for me since...well I am not even sure! Let's just say it has been years, after several horrible trips in the past, I stopped going. My hunky hubby loves camping so I thought I would give the ol'college try once more. I did and survived. We stayed here; Salt Point State Park. Not bad...we camped in the forest, surrounded by beautiful tall pines, during the day you could here the wind in the top of the pines. This was not a campsite with all the frills but it had some good things! This campsite had flushing toilets (and if anyone knows me...that my friends is a plus!) and we were close. No showers but I just did my hair in the sink...freezing water but it was refreshing!! We stayed 2 nights and 3 days. Friday really was just getting settled in and dealing with some hiccups. Saturday was far better. Ray and Gail made a kick butt omelet from breakfast! Which really hit the spot! Then as a group took off to go to Shell Beach. But the littlest camper pooped out before we got there, so I stayed and watched Kyra so the others could enjoy the beach! Hunky hubby did a great job snapping photos so I could feel as if I was there,too. The weather the whole weekend never reached over 75 and it was glorious! I loved being with my hunky hubby and watching him in his element. Who surprised me the most was our friend Gail...she is the happiest camper I have met! She just gets in there and knows what needs to be done! I didn't know this is so up her alley! Gail is truly happiest when camping...she is so in her element!

It was wonderful to sit around the fire pit at night and catch up with our friends. Hearing their dreams and views on things was probably the best part. Saturday night was Hunky hubby and I's turn to cook din-din and it was truly yummy! Boneless Country Pork spareribs with BBQ sauce and Corn/Asparagus/grape tomato salad. And brownies for dessert (store bought unfortunately). And I don't have pics of the visitors we had in camp at night. But they were bold and masked and very, very quiet! We had left on a lantern and they still came to our table and climbed up to check out if we left a snack! One was a pretty blond raccoon and several decided to raid the trash bin behind us and get the party started! It was awesome to see these critters up close...but not that close!

And we even had fun with Aiden (the sweetest little camper!), she had gotten her pants a bit wet at Shell Beach so Daddy figured a way to get them dry...on the Marshmallow roasting fork! Great idea and Aiden agrees!

Overall, a fun trip for Hunky Hubby and I. Great Friends, great food, and fantastic memories! I can say I am ready for another coastal camping trip soon. Thanks to our darling friends The Mason's for planning it and booking it!
Much Love,

If you want to wow the Wedding crowd...do this!

2010-07-07T00:13:00.000-07:00

There is two ladies at work that are getting married in Aug/Sept and Oct. And it just hit me...they should do something totally ORGINAL! Something like this! Especially Amy and Rick! Love ya ladies! Have fun coming up with your first dances! But thought I would try to help you out...(lol) HINT! make sure you watch it ALL the way through...it is so worth it!
Much Love,

Life's a bowl of cherries...

2010-06-25T01:28:00.000-07:00

Did I tell you all, how much I LOVE cherries!!! Well, I do! I love how perfect they are and how deep red they can get. I love how great they look in a crisp white bowl. And love they way they taste. I use them in decorating and in crafting! I love cherries as much as I do cupcakes! And a cupcake with a cherry on top...well let's just say...I think that is the bee's knees!

My BFF sent me a message through facebook that really made me think. My very first post of 2010 is all about the doom and gloom in my life. How sad and maybe not very good reading. I suppose I use blogging as therapy for me, so I jot down how I am feeling that day. And yesterday was 'I need everyone to know that life as been rough but we are adapting and coping!' After reading my BFF's message, I find myself thinking about the small things that make me happy...and a bowl of cherries makes me pretty darn happy.

My BFF, which by the way her name is Adrien...and yes, that is how she spells her name. I know....even that her name spelling makes me happy. It's different and suits her like a cute outfit! Maybe that's why we are besties, because we both have fabulous spelled names...me, RobYn (with a Y instead of the normal i) and her, Adrien (with an E instead of the normal A). Or that she reminds me that it is the simple things in my life that are good...truly good. Yes, there have been some really great things that have happened to Jim and I...and it was those simpler times she reminds me of. Adrien and I still do our MYSTERY trips. It all started in 2006 and now we are in 2010 and still going strong! I think it brings the creative sides out of both of us. And we have yet, to double up yet! And most of them are BRAND new to us. Go figure, lived here (Sacramento) most of my life and still discovering new places and things to see and do.

My scrap booking makes me extremely happy as does my altering things. And I must say...I am one of a few friends who has their own CRAFT room...and it's done in ALL PINK! It is a completely happy room. It makes me smile every time I am in there...wish I could be in there more!

I am learning new things from a bunch of talented women in my 'inner' circle! From my Cosmic Twin - Robin! Who is my alternate method guru, she is a herbalist and a damn good one. She has helped us all with trying a more natural approach to our health. Jim SWEARS by her as I do! (a little secret...if you live in town and want to talk to her...she works at Nugget up in El Dorado Hills...look her up, promise you will not be disappointed!). The one in our group who is just a sweety...Laura, will give you the world! She is always putting others needs before her own, and for doing that she has a heart of gold!! She helps some of us put on fundraisers for some of our non-profit organizations. Laura has taken into 2 little girls (who are sisters) who needed a wonderful home...without hesitation! We all rely on her for expert advice in the area of scrap booking. She is the one who wears her heart on her sleeve and for all to see...she is our heart! And Anca, who is one of the wisest woman I have known. She has taught me much in the few years I have known her. She said something today that I found very profound..." we can't pick our families, but we can pick our friends. The friend's that are in my life are there because I have chosen them. They are my CHOSEN family." She lived in a Communist country for years and finally escaped and to see life through her eyes is invigorating!

So, friends my bestie is right...I should talk more about the simple good things in my life...I have much to be thankful for...much!
Much Love,

Once upon a time....

2010-06-23T22:10:00.000-07:00

...in a far away place. Hello, my darling blogger friends and family! It has been ages, as much as I wish I was truly writing this in a far away place, I am not. I sit in a new rental house in an old neighborhood I grew up in as a girl. I wish I could fill your heads with all types of loveliness, like fairies and unicorns, but alas, I can not. Life for the Haas's has been a bit rough. Our rental in Elk Grove was foreclosed on...and we had no idea that our landlord was not paying his mortgage. Ultimately, we had to move, and move very quickly. We had a hell of a time finding a place due to having Glacier. We forged ahead, found a considerably smaller duplex that took our beloved Glacier.

And on that note, our darling boy has had some issues since we moved in. Not as much room as our 1700 sq.ft. home in Elk Grove. We are in a 1200sq.ft. duplex so, for our big boy he has had to adapt. And since we are a family of adaptors, he did just that. Happy??? Hmmmm....probably not as much, but you know canines, happy till the end. We also found a mass on his left flank, and we are saving our pennies to get him to the vet. And that is another story, no worries, I shall bring that up as well. He also has been having some digestive issues since moving in...so really have to get him in sooner than later. And as always, we shall.

Now, on to Jim and I. Yes, we are still together...yes it is still a struggle to maintain the sexiness, romance in our relationship, since Jim only comes home a few days a week. And sometimes a few times a month. Not going to sugar coat it...it's hard, very hard. But, there are women who have husbands serving this great nation of ours and see them two times a year!!! And then to add to our stresses, the State wants to not only take and keep the 15% off their checks but now Arnold has suggested that Peace Officers go to federal minimum wage!!! Are you kidding me??? We are barely keeping our heads above the water line as I type...now this! When I tell Jim to throw in the towel...he takes me in his arms and kisses me tenderly and says "hon...we have come through worse storms than this!" Referring to my bouts of cancer. He is right, those were some dark, dark times for us...for me.

During the next few months hopefully there will be some crafting and funny stories and just us enjoying life again. I can say though, it feels wonderful to be blogging again! Love it! I have missed you all something awful and can't wait to jump in and read up on what's been going on with you all! I can't believe I have been away a little over a year! Love to you all!
Much love,

Things are really rough right now...

2009-07-27T20:39:00.000-07:00

It has been ages since I have been on here to blog...oh how I miss it. Unfortunately, Jim and I have been hit with major finance issues. Since, Jim works for the State, Arnie has cut the Correctional Officers pay to the point where it put us in a hole! Slowly, with me working ALOT of 12 hour shifts and tightening up our belts alot more holes we are making it out of our pinch.

But, most importantly, I wanted to put this message her for the two people who have won gift cards from me. That will happen, trust me, my word is my bond. I have one already just need the 2ND and last one. To Junie and Kimm, I am truly sorry that it has taken me this long to send out, but this finance thing hit us fast and with such force, we didn't realize how much we were going to hurt. Excuses aside, we are very much on the way UP. And soon so will those cards be out the door. Thank for being so very patient with me and hope you can except 'my sorry' for the delay in your winnings. I feel horrible about the delay.

For, family and friends, Jim and I are pushing through. With the love of God and lots of prayer and hope, we are making it. There was a few months there that Jim and I had to step back and reevaluate US. Take a break, if you will. It is astonishing to me how money can really send people reeling with emotions. But, again, we are pushing through. We are working on talking more and making the most of our time together, when we are together. We send out love and hugs to all of our wonderful blogging community and family and friends! I will be back very soon! I promise!
Love,

And the WINNERS are...!

2009-04-29T22:50:00.001-07:00

Winner...Winner...Chicken Dinner! Ok, I have always wanted to say that! Here are the winners! Junie Moon and Reinvented ! Congratulations! Here is what you two lovely ladies won!

Congratulations June (Junie Moon)...you just won a $50.00 gift card to Macy's! Enjoy!

Congratulations to Kimm (Reinvented)...you just won a $25.00 gift card to StarBucks! Yeah!
I hope you ladies will enjoy the birthday surprise giveaway! Go shopping and get to drinking that yummy coffee!

Now...back to me! LOL! Just kidding...well no not really. I now want to share what some of my wonderful surprises were!

A beautiful bottle of this!

Lot's of my kind of goodies from this wonderful place!

Finally, after a about a year having on my wish lists...I finally got my PINK IPOD NANO! Isn't it the cutest! I was overwhelmed from all the gifts from Jim but then he threw in one more big thing!

Here it is! He reserved a couple lanes at Strikes Bowling Entertainment Center, in their, what they call...private lounge. We will have servers for the cocktails and food and I will get to have some old fashion fun with family and friends! What more could a girl ask for! This has been on of the most perfect birthdays! Thank you all for jumping in and entering the giveaway...maybe next time more people will give my giveaways a chance...see the prizes did turn out to be great birthday giveaways!
Love,

I am back!

2009-04-21T04:05:00.000-07:00

I am back friends from my Scrapbooking Retreat in Lake Tahoe! Can I just say BEAUTIFUL and super FUN! I will be picking 2 winners here in a couple days. So, if you haven't left a comment on my birthday day (april 16th) comment, please do so now, and get your name added! I will post the winners and then contact to get addresses to get those off to the winners! And I will also be posting some pics of birthday presents and retreat photos! Lot's to share friends...so stayed tuned! Love ya!
Love,

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME & a Birthday Giveaway,too!!!!

2009-04-16T12:32:00.000-07:00

This was sent to me by a friend! I just laughed and laughed when I opened the email this morning! I actually got 2 pics from 2 people so I just had to share with all of you!
Today, hubby cooked me breakfast and went and got me a sugerfree/nonfat mocha...yummy! And then he and I are getting our feet done. Me...a beautiful pedicure with lovely pink and cute daisies on my big toes. Hubby...just scrubbed and trimmed and buffed nails, he really enjoys have the ladies pamper his feet and I adore it too!
Then he says he has a surprise for me...oh I can hardly stand it!

And this was from my Rocker Husband! It still made me smile though!

And since it is my birthday I am going to be doing a giveaway here! And that will be a surprise for 2 people! So, pass the word and link me up to your blog I will add your name not once but twice! Friends...spread the word! It is a great giveaway if I say so myself! Once the names are picked I will showcase the giveaways! Spread the BIRTHDAY Giveaway news to everyone who wants to join in...and remember link me to you blog I will add your name a 2ND time!

Cheers! I am off to have fun!
Love,

What little Niece wouldn't love this...

2009-04-10T22:46:00.000-07:00

Hello friends!
I put together this great SCRAP BOOKING tool box for my darling Niece! We share the same birthday month! Yes, folks another Hot-Headed-Passionate Aries in the family! My sister has clued me to that my darling niece loves to craft and is blooming into quite the artist! And since my sister doesn't SCRAPBOOK and it is one of my biggest passions, she wanted me to gift my darling niece with a scrap booking tool kit!
If anyone knows me...I always ALTER! I alter everything I can get my hands on. So, it shouldn't surprise my beautiful sister that I went one step beyond on creating the ultimate SCRAP BOOKING tool box for my darling niece! Isn't it to die for. All pink and purple, all sissy la la, just perfect for her! She is going to squeal with delight! Take a peek with how I filled it...

Now drum roll please, here comes the 'piece dela Resistance' (said with a French accent..lol)you get my drift!

I will have to have my sister take lots of photos for me since my job is so hell-bent to make me work on Easter! We are celebrating my darling niece's birthday along with Easter, which also is my Mom's birthday! I know get out 5 Aries all in the same family...should prove to be fun in the up coming years!
So, tell me friends what do you think...will my darling niece just adore her new SCRAPBOOK tool box?!
Love,

What it means to a be an ARIES...

2009-04-05T00:58:00.000-07:00

Since my birthday is next week, I thought it would be fun to check out what it means to be an Aries. And this is what I found...quite interesting and uncanningly very close to the truth!!!

Aries is the first Sign of the Zodiac, and that's pretty much how those born under this Sign see themselves: first. Aries are the leaders of the pack, first in line to get things going. Whether or not everything gets done is another question altogether, for an Aries prefers to initiate rather than to complete.

Do you have a project needing a kick-start? Call an Aries, by all means. The leadership displayed by Aries is most impressive, so don't be surprised if they can rally the troops against seemingly insurmountable odds -- they have that kind of personal magnetism. An Aries won't shy away from new ground, either. Those born under this Sign are often called the pioneers of the Zodiac, and it's their fearless trek into the unknown that often wins the day. Aries is a bundle of energy and dynamism, kind of like a Pied Piper, leading people along with its charm and charisma. The dawning of a new day -- and all of its possibilities -- is pure bliss to an Aries.

The symbol of Aries is the Ram, and that's both good and bad news. Impulsive Aries might be tempted to ram their ideas down everyone's throats without even bothering to ask if they want to know. It's these times when you may wish Aries's Sign's symbol were a more subdued creature, more lamb than ram perhaps.

You're not likely to convince the Ram to soften up; these folks are blunt and to the point. Along with those qualities comes the sheer force of the Aries nature, a force that can actually accomplish a great deal. Much of Aries's drive to compete and to win comes from its Cardinal Quality. Cardinal Signs love to get things going, and Aries exemplifies this even better than Cancer, Libra or Capricorn.

Aries are ruled by the Planet Mars. Taking a peek at Roman mythology, we find that Mars was the God of War. Our man Mars was unafraid to do battle, and much the same can be said for Aries. These folks are bold, aggressive and courageous. They can summon up the inner strength required to take on most anyone, and they'll probably win.

Aries do not lack energy or vitality, and they can stay in the game longer than most anyone else. Now that's a winning edge. Rams are also, for the most part, independent and well aware of their own interests in a given situation. This sometimes myopic view may not be for everyone, but it does help Aries get things going.

Further, their competitive natures ensure that they will play the game with zeal and vigor. At times, their approach may be construed as arrogant and domineering, but it takes a lot of focus to be a leader (or so an Aries would say). Sadly, the Aries won't usually be around for the final victory (defeat? never). These folks will more than likely have bolted to the next project before the first one is done.

The Element associated with Aries is Fire. Think action, enthusiasm and a burning desire to play the game. Aries love physicality, so they won't sit on the sidelines for long, if at all. They'll jump into the fray full force and will contribute much in the process. Talk about eager beavers! Sure, some of their decisions may later prove to have been hasty, but you'll never find an Aries who regretted taking a shot.

Making things happen is what it's all about to these folks. Aries are also unafraid of stepping onto new terrain. The challenge inherent in taking on the unknown is heaven on Earth for Rams. Sure, they may appear arrogant when they take on the world, but they'll be quick to tell you it's the only way to go. While a common Aries refrain might well be 'me first,' there's no point in arguing with them since, in their minds, they are first. Is this unbridled ego? Maybe, but that might be what it takes to blaze a new trail. Oh, and on the subject of arguing, it's the Ram who will have the last word, so save your breath.

Aries seem to play as hard as they work. These folks are happiest in a spirited soccer match or engaging in the martial arts. In the game of love, the Ram's ardor is unquestioned, although Aries can also be playful and romantic with their mate. With Aries ruling the head, face and brain, those born under this Sign need to be on the lookout for headaches and are well-served to take the occasional deep breath. The Ram's color is bright red, a sure sign of the fire that breathes within.

The great strength of the Aries-born is in their initiative, courage and determination. These folks love to get things going and are fearless along the way. Their dynamism and competitive spirit add considerably any of their endeavors.

Aaaaahhhhh! It is good to be ME!
Love,

Happy April Fool's Day to Everyone!

2009-03-31T20:02:00.000-07:00

I found this very funny (well I thought it was hilarious!) on YouTube. Enjoy and hope pranks aren't too bad or scary! LOL!

Love,

What do I spy...Easter?!

2009-03-25T19:33:00.000-07:00

I have dusted off the box labeled Easter...and slowly pulled out my creations. I made these items a couple years ago and still when I pull them out, my chest swells with pride. I had seen a display like this is Pottery Barn and almost hit the floor on how much they were asking for their pieces. So, I had set out...frugal and with a master plan. I used grapevines from my mom's vines that she prunes back every early winter and saved them for a occasion just like this! And thank goodness I had picked up the flocked eggs at a craft store that was going out of business. I picked up 2 huge bags for a song. I stored them away (to my hubby's dismay) but I knew they would come in handy!

Bought a new glue gun and glue and set out. I rough sketched on how I would do the wreath first. I started to make all the eggs go the same way and just not the look I wanted. So, pulled off and DO OVER! Finally got what I was looking for!

I picked up these apothecary jars at a Ross that was closing for 4 dollars for the whole set! I know...I grabbed before some other frugal bargain hunter came by!

And the topiaries, were no joke. It took me a bit but finally got everything right. I painted the Terra cot ta pots white and shaped the green foam with a sharp knife. And even spray painted my moss more green. And then the job of hot gluing. Many spots of blisters later a finished project! I sat there beaming like a Cheshire Cat, proud as pudding for doing not one but TWO! Now they sit as a pair every Easter!
Love,

Goodbye,Natasha...Broadway Darling.

2009-03-24T17:10:00.000-07:00

Not only will Liam miss you...I too, will miss you and your fantastic performances on Broadway! Goodbye, Broadway Darling...
Love,

Here are some oldies but goodies!

2009-03-15T22:56:00.000-07:00

I had some requests to show some of my scrapbooking/craft ideas and projects so here are a few (from a year/months ago)! Enjoy! I am a mixed/alter artist so I love to tinker around with different medias.

With renewed faith,

Here is all the that is going on with ME!

2009-03-02T19:46:00.001-08:00

~Karen Marie~
One of my dearest friends, Karen, has begun to live her dream. I met Karen working at the hospital I work at still, where she was the youngest LVN at the time working there. She at times would talk about "how photography was a love" of hers. She worked through the years and every once in a while I would catch wind again her saying that same phrase. She married and soon baby #1 was coming. She found a woman who took belly shots. Well, let's just say that seed was planted in my darling friend! Karen was soon taking photos of her friends whom were pregnant. Yes, you heard right, she was taking photos right out of her home. Black drapes and all! And then she interned for a photography studio where she fine tuned her god-given skills.

Well, things turned for her once she went to work at a Ultrasound Clinic (where they did 3-D U/S's), and soon I found out she was taking photos professional...you know as getting paid. Karen then moved from there and formed her own photography studio! I can't tell you how very proud of her I am! Someone who is living her dream! Karen I love you girlie! And I am always here for you and will never let your dream fail! You are such inspiration to me and Jim and we love you and family very much! Thanks for making things beautiful!

Karen has two sites that you can visit! One is under construction but will be open soon! It is her newest business venture!
Belly Beautiful Portraits

Starlet Photography

The above pic above is the cover of a local parenting magazine ~ Karen did the cover and photo shoot! Once I get the mag, I will share with you the photo shoot! Love it!

For anyone who lives in the Sacramento area or greater surrounding areas, I highly encourage you to look Karen up as your photographer where she can capture you going through one of your most beautiful times....pregnancy and on through ~! And if you want a fun, sassy photo of yourself for a loved one or heck just for you...then become a Starlet! Ladies...she creates MAGIC! In future days I will become a Starlet and I will share with all of you!

The Scrapbook Addict closed for good!
This is the sad part of this post...my dear friends, Helen & Sarah, had to shut the doors to their dream! The Scrapbook Addict became another victim of the encomy. It was a sad day for alot of us who came there to find solace and hang with these beautiful women! My heart and prayers go out to my friends! I love you both!

A Day with Hubby ~ Pro Bass Shop ~ Manteca,CA
Now, I am not a hunter or fisherman but I have to say this was overwhelming to saw the least! Now, I know my friend Suzanne will have a heart attack from the images...so Suze...close your eyes, doll! This store is huge, they have a huge fish tank with big mouth bass, striper, catfish,strugen (sp?) all the fish were HUGE! And you should have seem them when feeding them...WOWSERS! Impressive! They have a archery lane where you can try out bows, that was fun. They have a mock shooting gallery (a pocket of quarters a must)...but still beat hubby! It is a scientfic fact that women are better shots! It is proven over and over!

Museum Day in Sacramento
Adrien had a great idea ~ to do Sacramento's Free Museum Day! What a great idea. Now, we have done most of the museum's in SacTown but can you believe I have never done our Governor's Mansion?! It was so beautiful inside and out.

All the furniture is the orginal, and fresh flowers everywhere! And the bedrooms were just glorious! I know there are few women on here that would certainly be jealous! The Pink bedroom was Adrien and I's favorite! I highly suggest this for everyone. If you plan it right you can take shuttles to and fro from the museums. And there are so many great eatries around town! Put this on your to do list!

The Super Bowl Party!
Well friends...here are finally the photos of the Super Bowl Party! Not as many as people I was expecting and poor hubby got mandated that day, so couldn't come and play with us! And eat some of my famous hot wings! Baby, next year!

During the 3-D part of the Super Bowl...did you all have your glasses! I pinch your head!!! Pinch...Pinch!

All interested in the TV, hoping and praying that the underdog Cardinals would make it....so close, yet so far!

BF...totally chilling and saying PEACE OUT!
With renewed faith,

All that is Super Bowl...

2009-01-26T23:47:00.000-08:00

Well, here it is! Simple and to the point! I used the Cricut/ribbon/wood piece/Bazil paper/Inked the edges...and that is all that was written. I also printed a piece for the inside and used more ribbon on the inside. I can't show you that (gotta keep the home address and phone on the down low)!

Here is some of the decorations that are going to be thrown around the house SBS! Love the pom poms...who can't use some pom poms to throw at the TV when the Ref makes the obvious mistake!

Do you see the football shaped frames ($1 at target dollar bins) I am using them as menu cards. I will type up what a dish is and all it's ingredients (so people with certain allergies know the deal) and place by the dish. I have football napkins and plates. Also, do you see those little boxes holding things that look toothpicks, well they are! Shaped as footballs and goal posts...too cute! I will set those in some appetizers.

Here is the Menu (so far...):

Papa Murphy's pizza (2 large...bring home and bake type)
Nachos with Cheese Sauce and all the fixings
Brownie Bites
Bacon Wrapped Chicken Sausages (mini)

And then guests were told to bring a favorite snack to share!
Slowly but surely we are getting the house football ready!
I will share more as it happens and show pics of the main event,too!

With renewed faith,

Invitations, pom poms, and more...

2009-01-25T02:00:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow I will post the invitations I made for my Super Bowl Party. And also show you some of the decorations I purchased as well! And share the menu, too! Hold tight I will be back soon to share!

Getting ready to host SUPER BOWL SUNDAY at my house...

2009-01-05T15:44:00.000-08:00

I can't begin to tell you how excited I am about this party! It is going to be so much fun and AT MY HOUSE! The first time to officially have friends over to sit on my new leather couches and enjoy my HOME. I am keeping my fingers crossed that my darling husband can get it off...but who knows. I am working on the initiations and the menu. Yes, I am making my invites myself! Thanks for the years of help from the professionals at Scrapbook Addict I have a few skills...LOL! I am making my lists and checking them over like any good head coach would!

The date for Super Bowl Sunday is Feb 1st, 2009! Yippee! We have no clue who is in but we certainly know who is out so far! I still have to find out when all the stuff starts. But I am putting a game together where we get to vote on the best commercial. Since, companies spend MILLIONS on the commercials it is only right to make up some game to really appreciate them...right?! *grin*
What is everyone doing on Super Bowl Sunday...what are your plans?

Oh! And by the way I am now on Face book (Robyn Yednock-Haas) please feel free to look me up and add me as friend! I would love to chat with everyone (there is a gadget on the right of this screen)!
With renewed faith,

Happy New Year's to all of our friends and family...

2008-12-31T02:22:00.000-08:00

I will be back and catch everyone up with the happenings of Robyn and Jim! We love you all and miss you terribly! Please be safe and let's start the New Year right!
With much love,

Today...was my last treatment!

2008-11-25T00:24:00.001-08:00

I no longer have to walk through this door anymore!
Today was my last treatment. You would think I would be jumping up and down celebrating...yes and no, I am very happy that today is my last treatment, but no not jumping up and down! A new mood has settled over me. I can say I am nervous. I still have to have an exit scan to see if the treatments did what they were supposed to do...cure the cancer!

I no longer have to lay on this table to receive treatments.
Will I miss this room...the answer is a resounding NO! Will I miss the encouraging words and the calming pats of reassurance, YES! My sister asked me today..."so, how do you feel?". I really wasn't sure at first what to say...a part of me wanted to run outside and shout at the heavens "I'm DONE!", then on the other hand a part of me held me right there on my seat cushion and answered "I'm nervous" and realized that was the truest statement. Today was not a true celebration. There will be a day though where I will have cause to do so. Today was one of thankfulness. And I am OK with that.

This butterfly represents Thyroid Cancer Survivors. Since the thyroid is shaped as a butterfly it seems to fit. And with all the meanings one can form from the symbol of the butterfly. Metamorphosis, the 'stage to stage' if you will. Or one to take flight on their new journey, cancer free. So, friends I offer this butterfly as my thank you gift for all the wonderful outpouring of support and kindness you all have bestowed on me. Please copy this and attach to your blogs to set this awareness on it's path.

Thyroid Cancer Diagnoses Predicted To Set New Record in 2008
ThyCa Urges Early Detection Through Neck Checks

Thyroid cancer, one of the few cancers that is increasing in incidence, is expected to reach a new record of 37,340 people newly diagnosed in the United States in 2008, reports ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association.

This record total is more than 11 percent higher than last year’s record numbers, and about double the number from 10 years ago, according to information from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the American Cancer Society.

Thyroid cancer is now the 6Th most common cancer in women. About three times as many women as men get thyroid cancer. It has several types and variants,. It affects people in all age groups, from young children through senior citizens.

Thyroid cancer is usually treatable when found early.

A total of 28,410 women and 8,930 men are expected to be diagnosed with thyroid cancer this year. The number of deaths is expected to increase by almost 4% over last year, to 1,590 in 2008.

ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association, Inc. urges everyone to learn about thyroid cancer and to ask for a neck check at each doctor's appointment.

Thyroid cancer is one of the few cancers that has increased its incidence rate over the past several years. About 40,000 people will be diagnosed with thyroid cancer in the U.S. in 2009. September is Thyroid Cancer Awareness Month. ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors' Association, Inc., encourages people to ask for a neck check the next time they visit their doctor. Signs to discuss with the physician include a lump or fullness in the neck, lymph node swelling, difficulty breathing or swallowing, or voice changes.
I hope you will help me raise awareness among family and friends. Please join me in supporting THYA:Thyroid Cancer Survivor's Assoc.

I hope to come back soon and post a clean bill of health and claim the new title of SURVIVOR!
Again, I can't thank you and my family & friends enough for the loving support I have received through this fight. I hope you accept my gift of the blue butterfly on this post as the gift of awareness. Blue/purple are the colors that represent Thyroid Cancer. As the butterfly, too (which represents the shape of the Thyroid). Have a wonderful Thanksgiving...I know that I will be having a lot to be thankful for this year!
With much love,

We went to Hollywood and were...WICKED!

2008-11-18T01:18:00.001-08:00

Hello...everyone! I some things to share with you. First off, it was my turn for planning our 2nd overnight MYSTERY trip. I think the pic above gives it away! But Adrien and I just had a blast! The real reason to go to LA was this...

I can't tell you all enough...how FANTASTIC this musical was. The songs were fantastic! I even found a clip from you tube to share with you some of the highlights of the musical.

But there was so much more to this trip! There was lots and lots of walking the Hollywood Blvd. Eating at fine establishments! And watching the night life walk past us after our theater show! I will show you some of our photos!

I really wanted the photos to do all the talking...if it could happen, or it shouldn't...it would ONLY IN HOLLYWOOD! I have missed you all.

And now I have some exciting news to share....(drumroll please) I only have ONE MORE TREATMENT to go. And it will happen the Monday before Thanksgiving. This year I have alot to be thankful for. First off...MY LIFE! Then secondly, all the support I have received from my blogging friends/communinity plus my family and friends. Things have certainly changed for me. No longer do I take for granted the small things...they all matter! And most importantly all of you MATTER! Each of you have touched some place in my heart and I can't thank you enough for sending your love and kindness in the forms of emails, comments, letters! I can't express my gratitude enough. I humbly thank each of you from the bottom of my heart!
With much love,

What's Love Got To Do With It...

2008-10-31T23:01:00.000-07:00

I suggest you play the what's love got to do with it while you read this! It really was faboulus...and each show is excatly the same with presentation. ENJOY!

This was the opening act!

(couldn't find live video from Sacramento but took from San Jose, from the complex where our friend BOB is the head cheese or the go to man...I think!)
YES BLOGGER FRIENDS! This is who I went to see with my bestfriend for our...(get ready) OUR OCTOBER MYSTERY TRIP! I know...get out...right?! Well, settle in friends as I tell you my fairy tale story of seeing an ICON!
Adrien gave me the invitation and on it, it says...Stylish Affair, wear my Sunday's best. On our invites we NEVER tell where we are going but give very subtle hints. Adrien TOTALLY threw me off. So, I went and bought new duds and prettied up my face and hair. And meet her over at her folks house around 430pm. Then we took photos (sorry haven't downloaded those yet...)and then we set out.
We arrived at a resturant called the Malabar!

We both dined on some fine meals. I would recommed this resturant to everyone! Great place.

Then went from there to get a cup of coffee. We were relaxing with our tea and coffee and I was thinking to my self...."I wonder where we are off to now? If we get on the freeway we must be seeing that new show downtown called 'Plaid' or if she turns into Arco..." What happens next...Adrien turns into Arco! I KNEW we were going to watch TINA TURNER in concert!

(pics were from Sacramento concert)
Friends all I can say that I loved every minute I was there with my BEST FRIEND! We both sung our hearts out (I think we even got a bit teary eyed when we first saw her step out!). We both swayed together and sang to each other (like we use to with hair brushes when we were young girls...LOL) It was a magical time for me! And then to share with someone I love so dearly is something I will cherish always! It was a spectular show and I just want to take this time to thank my darling best friend, Adrien for making this a magical mystery trip! I will never forget this....!

Just an update!!! I only have 2 more treatments to go...and (drum roll) I will then find out if all this worked! Thank you to all of you for continuing to support me and loving me! I cherish each of you and soon I will be around to check in on all your lives! Cheers! And no worries...good ol' Rob still has on her party hat and is all smiles!
With much love,

I see DRUNK people...

2008-10-19T21:37:00.000-07:00

Ok...my blogger friends! I have to share a special night with you...and I mean special! On Saturday about 24 of us from the SCRAPBOOK ADDICT went to something called a Scrapbook Expo. It is where we cropped until about 1130pm. You know winning prizes and receiving free goodies and just getting caught up with all the gossip amoung us. It was a good time had by all!

But some of us wanted to continue the fun...and decided to go to a local pub called The Streets of London in West Sacramento. And this is where Rob (aka: Robyn who almost shot beer through her nose!) got to laugh my you-know-what off all night! All I have to say is I SEE DRUNK PEOPLE! Case in point...this gentleman (who will remain nameless), but is a real hottie (I can say that even if I am a happily married woman...lol) seems to think it ok for his 'trying to get a booty call' to bring his Mama to the pub!

(YOU must click on this photo...too see the chick's face...yes I truly do see drunk people and I must say no one from my table of girlfriends!)
Check out the chick next to him...with that I "I can barely say what I want to without slurring my words and barely get my lipstick on..." And you should have seen the boots on this woman...total ankle breakers. And that was a hoot to see her try...and I will say try to walk to her car with her croonies!

I can't tell you how much I needed this night...it really does give you a perspective on certain things. I know the guy in this case, great guy that he is...was just too funny to hang out all night with. Since I was not DRUNK, to be able to sit back and enjoy all the 'circus acts' were very amusing. And then to add to the mix with my humor (yes, it is true I am a wise-butt and quite witty) just cranked it up a notch. My girlfriends never laughed so hard...I know I woke up with my face hurting from laughing, so I can only assume the same with them. And still today I am forever giggling...

Ok...and then comes in charcter #1! MAMA! She put the squeeze on 2 of my girlfriends. Who you can see from the photo weren't really sure what to make of her. BIGGER (hence the cleavage exposing top) than life and she was also on the prowl! Come to find out that she is 'DUDE's' MOM!!!! WTHECK?! And then that is when I shot off at him..."DUDE! Who brings one's MAMA to the pub, while trying to work the room?????" LMAO!
I told my girlfriends that I would blog this night! So, here I am blogging about it! It was a fun-didn't-get-home-till-230am-almost shot beer through my nose-type of night! Thanks ladies and will have to do this again really soon! I like playing the game 'I SEE DRUNK PEOPLE'!

P.S. I don't encourage drunk and disorderly conduct but this was all harmless fun! And we were amoung friends.

With much love,

Can you believe I only took...

2008-10-12T19:20:00.001-07:00

(this was on the way to surprise Jim in Pacific Grove)
a couple photos?! Geesh! I totally thought I had taken more! Oh well...that alone should tell you how much FUN we both had. It was marvelous to reconnect and fall in love all over again!!! This trip was so needed. Along the way on this trip I have rekindled my love for books, I have now read through 3 books. I know...I know...but you see I had given up the art of reading a fine book. I had fallen deep into the dark abyss of not finding fun in life. That has changed. If I can just say, that I think I have found the silver lining in my gray cloud.

This new diagnose of cancer has made me STOP dead (excuse the pun) in my tracks and grab hold of life once more and shake it up! No longer will I mope through a day...NOT I! Now I hold my head high and take on the day. I still work at my crappy job but boy oh boy! What a difference of indifference makes and a killer smile doesn't hinder anything either.
People come up to me now and say things like, "Robyn have you done something different to your hair or your make-up looks stunning!" WHAT?! No, nothing has changed...it's called a mega-watt smile. Ahhh, but I don't tell them. I just beam on.

Even when Jim and I were in Pacific Grove, people were drawn to us. Happy as we both were, people wanted to share and bathe in that positive energy. We had people take our photos while we were reading books on a bench on the beach. We had hot, steaming coffees and I had my legs thrown over Jim's while wearing hoodies.

While waiting for the sun to set! Hunkered down for a good read with the ocean swirling around us. I suppose people thought that an oddity. We did that everyday we were there. We were there right after lunch each day and then we would wait to see the sun set. Each one was so glorious to witness. Being by the ocean is truly where I am to be. For me to be truly happiest I need to be by the ocean. I feel more relaxed and my soul feels full!

(isn't it just breath taking...)

P.S. I have missed everyone so much...

With much love,

Aaaahhhhh...We needed that mini vacation!

2008-10-04T23:15:00.000-07:00

Hey gang! All is super...planned a wonderful surprise for hunky hubby for his birthday! I rented a cottage down in Pacific Grove. It was glorious and a much needed break to decompress from all the stresses. I will post more with pics...I PROMISE! I have missed you all and can't wait to catch up. I have my first radiation treatment MONDAY! Scary stuff BUT I will face my fears head on, friends. Send out those good vibes and thoughts dear hearts.
With much love,

Draft Horse Classic!

2008-09-21T22:10:00.001-07:00

Welcome Blogger Friends!!!! Yes, my best friend and I have had another MYSTERY TRIP. It was my turn for September...I choose the 22ND Annual Draft Horse Classic up in beautiful Grass Valley. It was at the beautiful Grass Valley Fair Grounds. The whole fair grounds are surrounded by huge pines. The Draft Horse show started at 10am, so we had about an 1 1/2 road trip ahead of us. We were armed with our coffees and set out for our adventure. The front of the fairgrounds had the magnificent, huge piece of sculpture, depicting a draft horse in action. Stunning piece. (I highly encourage you to click on the photos to see in great detail these beautiful animals in action!)

We bought our tickets and choose to seats that had the sun at our backs...good thing, as the sun was beaming on the grand stand for hours. I would have been burnt to a crisp.

First up was the 4 piece wagon hitch teams. The team had to show their agility and how to back up and turn right and left. They were beautiful draft horses. And those men loved their horses. I mean look at those coats and manes/tails! Just beautiful! Here is the second place winner! These horses were just beautiful, their coats just gleamed in the sun.

Here is the first place winner(all white team)! This man was so at ease with his 4 member team. Now mind you has 4 rains (which equals 8 pieces of leather through his fingers)to control these magnificent creatures. Ricky (was his name) made this job look way to easy. But I know that this is one hard job to maintain all the rains and still control the rig and horses all at the same time.

Mules barrel racing??? Yes sir...there you have it! It was hoot to see these animals race like the wind! They seemed to love it!

Adrien and I's favorite part...Draft Horse pulling competition. We were in complete awe of these Belgians. They were extraordinary in their strength. These 2 weighed in at 1500lbs a piece and then pulled about 4500lbs on the sled (which was metal and then packed with bags of sand).

They just kept adding more and more bags of sand. And every time these men would back these horses up to hitch up to the sled. These Shires, and Belgians were set to go. They love their jobs and damn are they spectacular at it also!

I want to you to look carefully at all the horses equipment. All that silver and harnesses, yokes, rains, chains and blinders. These 2 were very young and had ants in their pants. The owner had to drop the bit down to get more control. I can tell you though that all these men had to dig their boots in to pull back on the rains. Incredible strength these Shires, Clydesdale's, Belgians (a total of 7 types in the draft horse breed).

After the pulling competition they brought out these beautiful stallions. Stunning...for the life of me I can't remember the name of this breed (hoping Julie, who owns and operates a horse ranch will know the name). There were also some white horses that were out there 'dancing', they pawed the air and even bowed. They too are a special breed! It was so wonderful to see these horses canter!

The last part of the show was this HUGE contraption. It was pulled by draft horses back in the 1900's for logging. They showed how it worked, and how the industry relied on these beautiful animals to get the job done.

After the 22ND Draft Horse Classic it was off to check out the Lumberjack show!

This a 9 year old little girl (with the help of grandpa) cutting out a solid chair with a chainsaw!

And the log climbing, with toe spikes...I so want to try this! And I was telling Adrien I want to look into AXE throwing! I know...cool huh?! Me a LUMBERJACK! Wait and see...
Hope you enjoyed our September Mystery Trip...we sure did! It was an incredible day with those beautiful, magnificent creatures!

With much love,

Cancer Sucks.

2008-09-07T18:20:00.000-07:00

Yes, that is right my dear blogger friends! I have CANCER.

Specifically, I have Thyroid Cancer. I had it once before but it has decided to creep back in my life. When I first found out I was devastated and throwing a pity party for myself. I have since moved forward on this diagnose. I am in a good place now. I have told most of my family and friends. They have rallied on the sidelines as I step in to the ring to take on this fight.

I am a FIGHTER! And I beat this the first time, I will K.O.cancer this round too! I have been encouraged by some very special blogger friends to do a post about this fight I have to take on. At first, I just needed to get my bearings on what I was feeling and finish all the testing to see where and what I needed to do.

I have been through almost all the scans. And have had more blood drawn then you could imagine. As scary as all that was, I did it! I choked back the tears most days or the urge to haul butt out of those tests. I stood my ground and conquered my fears. It was freeing once I learned I could overcome my fears. Am I scared? Heck yes, I am. That wouldn't be truthful if I wasn't. But, these are the cards I have been dealt and I need to meet this challenge head on.

As some of you know, if you were to get cancer, the Experts say this is the cancer you would want to get. Why? Because it is the most treatable. But when it keeps reoccurring they become suspicious that it might be a tad more aggressive than your run of the mill Thyroid Cancer. This is the reason for all the scans, xrays, Ultra Sounds, Nuc Med Scans. They had to determine if my cancer had formed any tumors. They have concluded that in fact, I have NO TUMORS. So, that means my cancer is still on the cellular level. That is fantastic news! So, you ask where is my cancer? Since I no longer have a thyroid (removed with 1st cancer round) Well...it has parked it's ugly self on my left Para-thyroid and in my left (upper/lower lobe)lung. They call that metastasis. Indeed an ugly word and still very hard for me to speak. But there it is!

As this picture shows (an example)of what imagines the scans show the doctors where the 'hot' spots are. I have one more scan tomorrow. It is another Whole Body Nuc Med Scan to make sure that there are no more cells sitting somewhere else. Because it has been decided that I will be getting 'pin-point' radiation treatments. Which I am very nervous about but in the long run it will prove to be much better for me. The beams of radiation target the specific spots of cancer cells to kill them. I think I will have that for 12 weeks (that is still unclear to me as of yet).

But, the part I am excited about is that I can still be around my family and not isolated like I was last time. Last time I had to take radioactive iodine which in turn made me very radioactive. And I couldn't be around my sister (who was pregnant at the time) or my husband or dog for almost 6 weeks. It was miserable. No it didn't hurt but not having the human touch was more than I could stand!

Now that I know what type of fight I will be up against, I have suited up and have started to train for this fight. Just rereading what I have typed, I have discovered, has taken some burden off my chest. I truly find it freeing to record my feelings on this fight for me. I feel more powerful this time around and better armed. Well...not looking for pity or the aaahhhh...factor but wanted to let my friends know what fight I will be up against for the next couple of months. And hope to see you in my corner during this fight!

With much love,

Let's Pay it Forward!

2008-08-31T18:35:00.001-07:00

A bit of pink heaven posted this "Pay it forward" on her blog and I decided to play because it looked like fun! I received a some great goodies and now I want to do that for the first three who tell me they want to play! Below are the rules:

This is how it works: I will send a gift of my choice to the first 3 people who leave a comment on my blog and ASK to join this "Pay it Forward" exchange. You must make the same pledge on your blog! Please keep the item small so that it can be mailed in a mailing envelope or small box. So, if you want to receive goodies from me and are willing to do the same on your blog, leave a comment and let me know!!! I will need your email and mailing address from each of you so that I can get your goodies out in the mail, (my e-mail is located on my profile). Oh and if you stopped by and you don't want to play, you can still leave me a comment and let me know you were here! You will only be included to play if you say you want to play and you are one of the first three! LET'S PAY IT FORWARD!

With much love,

What's in a List?

2008-08-28T23:52:00.000-07:00

Well...Friends life has thrown me a curve ball. And sort of knocked the wind out of me. Oh, no worries I will get back up and dust off my pants and take whatever life throws at me face on!

I just didn't have any creative thoughts running around so I borrowed an idea from a darling friend! CSI Seattle. I thought it evoked emotions in me that I have not felt in a long time. For an example; as in SAVING A LIFE.

I will never forget when I was a transporter and I had my first CODE BLUE. There I was face to face with someone my own age, laying so very still and dying as I looked on. I rememeber everything slowing down and the ER Doc yelling at me to 'get on the chest to start compressions'. I was a robot! I climbed up and started...and then being told I needed hard and deeper compressions. I pumped and pushed harder, trying with all my might to push life back into her!
I was doing compressons for 25 minutes (a very long time) but I didn't and couldn't fail her. Finally, the ER Doc called out 'we have a pulse'! I started to cry....once I let up on the compressions. I remember slipping off the gurney and slumping to the floor with exhaustion and pure happiness that I SAVED my first life.

Take a look and do what CSI has done and make it your own...add one that is not on the list! To make this your own!

Here we present a list. Highlight those tasks that you have accomplished in your life.

01. Bought everyone in the bar a drink
02. Swam with wild dolphins
03. Climbed a mountain
04. Taken a Ferrari for a test drive
05. Been inside the Great Pyramid
06. Held a tarantula
07. Taken a candlelit bath with someone
08. Said “I love you” and meant it
09. Hugged a tree
10. Bungee jumped
11. Visited Paris
12. Watched a lightning storm at sea
13. Stayed up all night long and saw the sun rise
14. Seen the Northern Lights
15. Gone to a huge sports game
16. Walked the stairs to the top of the leaning Tower of Pisa
17. Grown and eaten your own vegetables
18. Touched an iceberg
19. Slept under the stars
20. Changed a baby’s nappy
21. Taken a trip in a hot air balloon
22. Watched a meteor shower
23. Gotten tipsy on champagne
24. Given more than you can afford to charity
25. Looked up at the night sky through a telescope
26. Had an uncontrollable giggling fit at the worst possible moment
28. Bet on a winning horse
29. Asked out a stranger
30. Had a snowball fight
31. Screamed as loudly as you possibly can
32. Held a lamb
33. Seen a total eclipse of both the sun and moon
34. Ridden a roller coaster
35. Hit a home run
36. Danced like a fool and not cared who was looking
37. Adopted an accent for an entire day
38. Actually felt happy about your life, even for just a moment
39. Had two hard drives for your computer
40. Visited all 50 states
41. Taken care of someone who was drunk
42. Had/Have amazing friends
43. Danced with a stranger in a foreign country
44. Watched whales
45. Stolen a sign
46. Backpacked in Europe
47. Taken a road-trip
48. Gone rock climbing
49. Midnight walk on the beach
50. Gone sky diving
51. Visited Ireland
52. Been heartbroken longer than you were actually in love
53. In a restaurant, sat at a stranger’s table and had a meal with them
54. Visited Japan
55. Milked a cow
56. Alphabetized your CDs
57. Pretended to be a superhero
58. Sung karaoke
59. Lounged around in bed all day
60. Played touch football
61. Gone scuba diving
62. Kissed in the rain
63. Played in the mud
64. Played in the rain
65. Gone to a drive-in theater
66. Visited the Great Wall of China
67. Started a business
68. Fallen in love and not had your heart broken
69. Toured ancient sites
70. Taken a martial arts class
71. Played D&D for more than 6 hours straight
72. Gotten married
73. Been in a movie
74. Crashed a party
75. Gotten divorced
76. Gone without food for 5 days
77. Made cookies from scratch
78. Won first prize in a costume contest
79. Ridden a gondola in Venice
80. Gotten a tattoo
81. Rafted a river
82. Been on television news programs as an “expert”
83. Gotten flowers for no reason
84. Performed on stage
85. Been to Las Vegas
86. Recorded music
87. Eaten shark
88. Kissed on the first date
89. Gone to Thailand
90. Bought a house
91. Been in a combat zone
92. Buried one/both of your parents
93. Been on a cruise ship
94. Spoken more than one language fluently
95. Performed in a Rocky Horror Picture Show
96. Raised children
97. Followed your favorite band/singer on tour
98. Passed out cold
99. Taken an exotic bicycle tour in a foreign country
100. Picked up and moved to another city to just start over
101. Walked the Golden Gate Bridge
102. Sang loudly in the car, and didn’t stop when you knew someone was looking
103. Had plastic surgery
104. Survived an accident that you shouldn’t have survived
105. Wrote articles for a large publication
106. Lost over 100 pounds
107. Held someone while they were having a flashback
108. Piloted an airplane
109. Touched a stingray
110. Broken someone’s heart
111. Helped an animal give birth
112. Won money on a TV game show
113. Broken a bone
114. Gone on an African photo safari
115. Had a facial part pierced other than your ears
116. Fired a rifle, shotgun, or pistol
117. Eaten mushrooms that were gathered in the wild
118. Ridden a horse
119. Had major surgery
120. Had a snake as a pet
121. Hiked to the bottom of the Grand Canyon
122. Slept 30 hours in a 48 hour time frame
123. Visited more foreign countries than U.S. states
124. Visited all 7 continents
125. Taken a canoe trip that lasted more than 2 days
126. Eaten kangaroo meat
127. Eaten sushi
128. Had your picture in the newspaper
129. Changed someone’s mind about something you care deeply about
130. Gone back to school
131. Parasailed
132. touched a cockroach
133. Eaten fried green tomatoes
134. Read “The Iliad”
135. Selected one “important” author who you missed in school, and read
136. Killed and prepared an animal for eating
137. Skipped all your school reunions
138. Communicated with someone without sharing a common spoken language
139. Been elected to public office
140. Written your own computer language
141. Thought to yourself that you’re living your dream
142. Had to put someone you love into hospice care
143. Built your own PC from parts
144. Sold your own artwork to someone who didn’t know you
145. Had a booth at a street fair
146. Dyed your hair
147. Been a DJ
148. Shaved your head
149. Caused a car accident
50. Saved someone’s life

and the one to make my own!
151. Have organized a HUGE event!

With much love,

Got Crabs??? Part III

2008-08-21T23:28:00.000-07:00

First off, I must apologize on this late entry (I had started to work on it and then I hit a wall with being pooped). I have just got off of 3 days of back to back 12 hour shifts! I was ran into the ground. Whew...so, now 3 days off I blog away! My favorite past time next to scrap booking and doing my altered art.
OK...well on with it, shall we?

Adrien and I were starving by the time we got to Joe's Crab Shack (right on the river walk). We started out with an appetizer of HOT gooey crab spread in one dish and the other was HOT gooey artichoke dip. For the yumminess factor...I had to take pictures of the food! Damn this was so stink 'en good!
Can I just say...we dove right in with no speaking! Lickty split it was devoured! We had also ordered some cooling refreshments as well. Me...a kick-ass Mojito! Adrien a blended Big-Girl Margarita!

We had a fabulous server, her name was Ami! She was on the ball kept my drink filled to the brim and brought out our cardiac specials out...piping hot! Take a look at my platter...or trough more like! I can't say enough about this all shrimp combo. It was packed with about (I swear) 18 butterflied shrimp. There were 3 sections of different flavors; Coconut Shrimp, Peppered Shrimp, Plain ol'Shrimp! It was SHRIMPablous! I mean look at it...do I need to say anymore?!

And here is Ms. Adrien's all Coconut Shrimp dish. She was over the moon with delight!

If you have never been to a Joe's Crab Shack, you are in for a treat! Do not think at any minute this is where you have a 'quiet-romantic-hand-holding' date! So not happening. This is a 'live-wire-get-up-and-move-your-tush' kind of a place! What happens about every 1 1/2 hour the whole place becomes a disco. Where the servers and some customers get out there and dance! Yes...you heard me right! We as customer's get free entertainment! And it is lively with toe-tapping music and the servers know with each song what routine to do! It is fab to see the lights dim and disco balls to start spinning and flashing lights start blinking.

And the smallest customer had to get out there with (his crush...I think more like it) his server (the one in the red) and get his groove on. Little man really did dance as 'no one was watching' free to do what he wanted! All of us adults couldn't keep our eyes off our 'Little' charmer out there getting his groove on.

Joe's Crab Shack is about as famous as this little guy who works for Disney! Can I just say I really do have a love for crabs!

There really is no point for me to try to hide my love, passion for CRABS! I love them and pretty much anything from the ocean! Yes...there I have said it...I adore SEAFOOD! There really is no reason for me to even say that pork,beef,chicken are my favorite! NOT!

***************************************************************

OK! On to some funnier (I so know that is not a word...but I am declaring that it should be) news! I was given an award from one of my blogger friends! Skeeter over at Atomic Zebra! He is just fab in my book! I just want to give you a big ol' Rob hug! Thanks so very much for bestowing with this award! It really has the 'aaaahhhh' factor. It means 'you-really-do-love-my-blog'. *blowing Skeeter a big wet kiss* I will be back to post the rules and list of the 7 choosen! I will be around soon my dear blogger friends to catch up and visit. I have certainly missed you all!

Here's wishing you a Tequila Sunrise kind of day...where ever that is for you!
("Tequila Sunrise" is a song written by Don Henley and Glenn Frey, and recorded by the American rock band Eagles. It was the first single from the band's second album Desperado.)

With much love,

All Aboard...Part II

2008-08-19T15:43:00.001-07:00

As Adrien and I made our way through the tunnel towards Old Sacramento...something happened along the way! It was almost as if we had stepped back in time. All of sudden we were walking planked walkways. And I could almost picture how people were probably dressed back then.

Once I started my walk back through time...I couldn't help but take a picture of a favorite watering hole. The bar is called 'Fanny Ann's'. Once inside everything is Topsy Turvy and upside down and never right side up! Go there and beware of the bathrooms...it is a hoot! Beer is ice cold and food is A-OK! But the characters who make up that watering hole...priceless!

Here is carriage for the tourists...I personally have only done this once and it was pretty lame. And I felt really badly for those hot, tired horses. But we have had Peta and animal control out there to check things out. And they always walk away with not closing down this Horse and Buggy ride.

Along our path to our final destination (which Adrien still only knew), I saw this fantastic sculpture. I never really have taken the time to stop and admire it. It is really a beautiful piece. It is capturing the Pony Express. Old Sacramento was the last stop for the Pony Express on its long journey. Who knew? Not I...so that was a interesting piece of information learned from our 87 year young Icon friend!

Even our regional transit get into the act in Old Sacramento, looking like an old time trolley from 'them olden days'!

And then it hit me...there I was standing right smack in history! Looking at these hundred year old buildings realizing that at one time there were cowboys and saloon gals and proper ladies and shop keepers, ferry boat captains walking, working these streets way back when. If I stood very still I could almost hear what it must have sounded like back then. The hustle and bustle. Hearing the brass pieces clinking on the horse and buggies and the blow of the whistle from something out in the distance...what was that I wondered. And we pushed on. Getting closer and closer to our final destination.

We finally made it to begin our Mystery Trip! We were here...

I was so excited I could hardly contain myself. I have never been on a steam powered locomotive. And this was a working, traveling museum. I was giddy. We stepped up to purchase our tickets. And history began to unfurl right in front of me. (Adrien buying her ticket)

There were the hustle and bustle on wooden platforms and the whoosh of the engine letting off pressure. And that glorious sound of the whistle being blown.

We set out to go board the train. And when we rounded the corner...there it was in all it's glorious wonder!

The train was just pulling in the station when we were queuing up. And then we started to see all these characters popping out of nowhere....head conductor and platform conductors. These men and women who played these characters are all volunteers for this working museum. At one time in their lives they worked for the railroad. Probably in the capacticy of what they are doing now...enginer,conductor,etc.

We boarded. And found our seats. Adrien and I began to comment on what small spaces there were. And wonder how a proper lady, whose attaire would consist of many, many layers of petticoats and lace,a corset and a bustle. How they with stood a ride of this nature.

With a huge lunge forward, we were off. You could hear the roar of the engine as it geared up with pressure to make the train move. You could hear the arms of the wheels beginning to turn. And you certainly knew you were on the way when the engineer begin to blow the whistle!
I stuck my camera outside the train window as the world was passing by to take some shots of what it must of felt like way back when.

Here the train has uncoupled with main part of train and is doing a maneuver called a 'Round about'.

This is where the train must blow out the sediment that settles on the bottom of the steam tanks. It's like 'blowing your top'. That steam can reach very hot temperatures and that is why they stop under the freeway to blow out the steam. Quite a sight and sound.

While we were waiting for train to recouple with us to take us back to the station. Adrien and I met this wonderful 'young in heart' gentleman. Let me introduce you to my 87 years young friend. This is Mickey! Mickey is an icon on this train. He had been an Engineer for almost 50 something years when he finally retired. Once retired, and once they refurbished this moving museum, he has been coming down to the station and riding in the same seat, same train car since this museum opened. Mickey knows everything there is to know about this Steam Locomotive. He knows every ones names and feels his duty is to wave at EVERYONE. And Mickey did just that. When I needed to take some photos of the other side of the train, he so graciously offered his space. At one point I sat with him and as he told me about the Crocker Art Museum and the stone marker depicting the very last run and ending point for the Pony Express. It was a wonderful day and made even better by meeting my darling new friend...Mickey the Icon of the Sacramento Railroad. So, if you are coming through and want to experience this wonderful trip. Make sure you purchase your ticket and get on the last train car and look for Mickey and tell him that Robyn sent ya!

Well folks this the end of this journey and Mystery Trip. I hope you have enjoyed it as much as me putting it together for you! If you are traveling through or have a undying love for trains as I do. One must really experience this at least once.

Stay tuned I have yet to put up our lunch experience...and what an experience it was. I will tell you all about how we caught 'crabs'! And that is so not a typo. LOL!
With much love,

Come Follow Me...Part I

2008-08-17T04:01:00.001-07:00

Well, Blogger Friends...it is that time again. MYSTERY TRIP TIME!!!! The month of August was Adrien's turn to plan out. And what a trip it turned out to be. This trip, as the last one, was in our very own backyard. Which to me is just thrilling. To think there was something here that I had never done and I got to experience it with my best friend. As most of you know, we always have such adventures on our Mystery Trips. We always get to meet such characters in our travels. And if anyone knows me at all, knows that I am always up in some one's grill getting the low down on whatever their story is...lol! With my type of personality it makes for a very interesting trip indeed. And this one was no different. This trip was a woven tapestry of wonderful sights to behold with one's eye, meeting an icon (who was 87 years young) and wondering back into some wonderful history. So, come along friends for this two part series. It will prove to be intriguing and full of wonder!

The trip started out on our regional transit LIGHT RAIL! Can I just say that this keeps getting better and better to ride. One, it saves us on parking fees. Secondly, it makes for relaxing traveling. Thirdly, we get to enjoy our endless chatter with each other. And these Light Rail cars are fully air conditioned that isn't on my dime...yummy!

We disembarked off Light Rail and Adrien lead the way to this Bohemian style coffee & tea house. Isn't that the cutest store front. It is so tiny out in front but once you step inside...it was quite surprisingly spacious. And the best part, it carried fair trade coffee and loose leaf tea (which is proving to be a very rare thing around here in Northern California).

Since, it was already warming up a bit. Adrien and I settled on some Organic Jasmine Iced Tea...it was a burst of flavor in our mouths. Very refreshing! I highly recommend any traveler to seek this hidden gem out.

I should also mention, since I am a huge fan of art. There was art on almost every inch of the walls. All the art from local artists. Some really great pieces to be enjoyed. And lovely seating areas, all cushioned and cozy with pillows and coffee tables filled with all types of newspapers and local flare magazines. Trust me when I say you will spend a fair amount of time in here if you are a local and if traveling through, it is a wonderful place to catch one's breath and plan the next move.

I promise you will not be disappointed with adding this stop into your traveling agenda.
Once we finished up our drinks, we set out. We walked briskly through K street plaza/Mall. Me, a few steps behind Adrien (who knew where our next stop would be), taking in the sights and sounds of our lovely downtown. Here a few pictures of some art that caught my eye along the way. I was thinking if I was in a car I would have never got to enjoy all this lovely art around me!

This carousal is at the end of K street Mall. It evokes for me all the childhood memories of riding this for hours and squealing in delight to pick out 'my' horse!

Once through our open air mall, we came to this beautiful beacon which is the entrance to lead us through the tunnel onward toward Old Sacramento. I have never really stopped to take this piece in...but it just seems to be at home among the tree lined plaza. A truly fantastic piece.

Once past the sculpture, we came to this arch. It indicates where we were headed. This had me very intrigued to say the least. And once we walked past it, we were at the head of the tunnel that would take us under I-5 and on to Old Sacramento. The walls of the tunnel are beautifully decorated with continuous art murals.

And this is where I shall leave you all, until part II of my Mystery Trip. And trust me when I say you will want to come back and take a peek.
With much love,

What the Duck...?

2008-08-15T04:07:00.000-07:00

Everybody has their own obsession. My bestfriend's would be Rubber Duckys! Adrien had joined in a swap where she needed to make 3 postcards with a rubber duck on it! Well...you ask (or not), where did the photo shoot take place. Only at the greatest scrapbook store around, The Scrapbook Addict. We snagged some paper off their shelves and began to figure what duck looked good with what background! This one is of the Sacramento King's rubber duck in the Arena parking lot.

This one happens to be a favorite of mine. Just simple and right to the point. A huge rubber duck in water! I just adore the colors. All bright and reminds me of the hot days of summer! What bathroom would be complete without a lovable rubber ducky? Not her's...it is chuck-full of rubber ducks.

Friends enjoy my random post about RUBBER DUCKS and feel free to tell me about what RUBBER DUCK inspires you!

Here's mine...Senor Sonreir Cursi (Mr. Cheesy Grin). His place serves the best tacos in town! Yummy! See...catch the Rubber Ducky craze!!

With much love,

The EYES have it...

2008-08-11T01:57:00.000-07:00

There are many expressions commonly used to describe emotions portrayed by the eyes. Some of these expressions are: eyes of love, lustful eyes, bedroom eyes, dreamy eyes, soulful eyes, sinful eyes, fiery eyes. Have you ever heard these expressions? Have you ever heard someone say that someone has eyes that stare through your soul? The eyes truly are the window to the soul. They portray love, anger, hurt, fear, lust, trust, deceit. In fact, the eyes, more than any other part of your anatomy, can convey every emotion that you experience.

They say the eyes are the windows to the soul. Eyes reflect emotion, intelligence and life experience. The beauty that eyes possess goes beyond the pigment and hue.

Surely everyone has a preference to eye color. Some fall head-over-heels for green eyes, while others are passionate about blue. Still others insist that only brown or hazel will do. But, is it really the color that attracts a mate, or the character that pours from the stunning shade?

One of my favorite songs by Peter Gabriel. Take a listen and I think you will agree that IN YOUR EYES...evokes some form of emotion that is seen through our eyes, of the world we live in, and the people we share it with.
Your eyes say it all!!

And lately my eyes are conveying everything from love, lust, anger, curiosity, saddness, happiness and much more! What are your eyes saying...

With much love,

Google this Baby!

2008-08-07T23:31:00.000-07:00

Ok thanks to this Fab lady...who just cracks me up DAILY! Random Chick tagged with this very strange meme! Here are the simple rules:

Rules: Google "Your name needs" and describe the first ten results.

Did that came up with first ten things...hmmm! Interesting to say the least! I swear it makes me sound like a porn star! *throws hands up in a gasp!* I know...moi?! So, you tell me! It was fun to google and not hard! And mine were long too. Some hit close to home, some were out there! Take a peek!

Top Ten:

1)Robyn needs to contend with male teasing! (Hmmm...this could prove to be VERY interesting!)

2)Robyn needs to know what I would do if I were alone in a room with Robyn, I would _???____. I think Robyn should _???____. Robyn needs _???____. I want to _???____ Robyn. ...(Like I said...something from a porn site! But atleast they spelled my name right...lol!)

3)Robyn needs to get SOME! (WOW! now that is what I'm talking about...yeah baby!)

4)Robyn needs to find love. (this book was written by someone named Robyn Hitchcock...interesting but sure I am always looking for some LOVE aren't we all?!)

5)Robyn needs needs to take some notes on you guys. (now isn't that the truth, can I get an AHEM!)

6)Robyn needs help! (stating only the obvious...DUH!)

7)Robyn needs applications to pass out. (See fate! Here I come NEW JOBS!)

8)Robyn needs absoulutely no introductions, she is Queen of the Blogosphere! (Now that is what I am saying about BLOG LOVE...this was about someone's band really!!)

9)Robyn needs to learn that guilty pleasures like these need to be saved for the end! (I know this is from someone's porn site...guilty who/what/where?! *wicked grin*)

10)Robyn needs to get a LIFE! (only speaking the truth...LOL!)

This was mindless fun and I needed to make sure that I saved Random Chick from herself...otherwise there was some talk about 10 martinis and vomiting. Something that I really wanted to avoid!

With much love,

Back to the Hamster Wheel!

2008-08-05T21:29:00.000-07:00

Can I just say...I really want to do that! Throw it ALL out of the window. I dread getting up tomorrow to get back on the hamster wheel AGAIN! This dread starts to well up in me around 4pm on my last day off (today). And that blackness called...STRESS begins to creep back, shadowing my lovely days off. I already can imagine the nightmare I will walk back into.

The chaos because no one was manning the front desk for the days that I was off. Everything will be in frantic mode. I will have a billion emails from my 3 different bosses. Yes...my friends, this gal is WAY micro-managed. One boss will say one thing while the other will dismiss the first bosses wants. It is the continual around and around, nobody knows where she will land theme! It makes me want to stand in the middle of my floor and throw my head back and SCREAM...I QUIT!
( This is a image that I came across and thought it looked alot like me...the hair and eyebrows and lips...lol! Oh fitting)
But of course, we all know that won't happen. With the way the job market is at this moment and time...I guess I should be saying "thank god I have a job!" Am I lucky?! Working in an environment that is dealing with people whose illness are sometimes just overwhelming. The needs of these patients and their families could push anyone to the drink! In a environment that has NO DOWN TIME! It is go-go-go from 745am till 815pm (12 hour shifts). I am the EVERYTHING & GO TO girl!

All I hear all day is constant phone ringing(over 600 calls a day), nurses and doctors constantly asking for help with some menial or life moving task, bosses that have (I swear) a list of hundred tasks that have to be done by 5pm. And the whole time I am to sit there and be the 'Captain' of my floor's ship (told to me by my manager...geesh! Ahoy Matey!)and have the habitual smile plastered on my face. And deal with families grieving or patients who are needing to know something about their illness or wanting to just chit chat, and hospital techs wanting to know who, what, where ALL THE TIME!!!!

Then there are moments in a day, where I can stop and look back at a moment where all of sudden it makes sense why I am there! Seeing a patients face light up when the Doctor walks in and tells them that the tumor they just cut out of them...was benign! Or the holding of a hand or soft hug given to a family member who just had to say good bye to their loved one.

Or remember the love I experienced when the tables were turned and I was in the hospital bed, wondering if I was going to die. And me being the person who received those soft hugs and holding of my hand when I was told I had cancer. Yes...those same nurses who I party with and work with, were there when my life seemed doomed. They were the same ones who stood by me when management seemed to have signed me off when I was so ill. They are the ones who called and sent messages of hope when all seemed so grim.

The loathing of my job really stems from the uncaring people who call themselves 'bosses'! Yes, those same people who need me so desperately now were so quick to write me off as a loss when they thought there was a chance...I would die! But, now I am always subjected to constant ramblings of "Robyn, your a valued employee here...blah-blah!" then they throw at me their demeaning list of tasks that seemed to be pushed from one boss to a lesser boss till it landed in the lowest man on the totem pole lap! You are right! I should quit and find another job...with a quickness. And yes my friends that is the master plan. Along with investing in some stock for ALEVE...the constant hitting of one's head on wall is taking a toll.

There are a couple snafu's that hold me back...I have FANTASTIC health insurance. And with my current position I need that like I need air to breath. And then there is the pay thing...yes! I must move from this job to another with the same or more 'coins' being deposited in my bank roll.

This dilemma that I am in with my current position is just temporary, but with some of my fellow blogger friends fielding some of the same problems with their current positions, I found my voice as well! And heck, it just feels wonderful to release all this out here in my blog! It really is such lift of a burden for now...until I walk through those hospital doors tomorrow! Welcome back to HELL!
With much love,

Between the Margaritas & Embellishments!

2008-08-04T00:49:00.000-07:00

And here is a look at my friend's 40th Birthday! By the way Sabrena doesn't look a day over 29! Beautiful skin and cutest figure. Darling! It was rip-roaring fun! With bumping music and lots of yummy men to dance with and chat the night away with friends. It was all about the yumminess! Lot's of sexy people celebrating! I hadn't danced the night away like that in a very long time. My poor Jim was away working hard, doing the toughest job (I am so biased...lol!). He was watching all those animals behind prison bars while his lovely wife was dancing the night away with friends. Jim is such a great man...not a jealous bone in his body! What can I say...*wink* I am pretty darn lucky!

Do you see that FISH BOWL of a glass?! That was filled Margarita! Yes...darn it! It's Sabrena's birthday and she can have a BIG GIRL'S drink if she wants to. LOL! I don't remember EVER seeing that glass empty! She danced with it, walked around with it, ate with it in her hand! It was a wonderful, fun evening. Night air was just right...and the music was great bumping music to make ones hips and feet start swaying. It was great fun to hang out with my bestfriend, Adrien and some of my co-workers from work! Hmmm...can't wait for my 40th B-day (which is 2 years away...don't rush it) I am so doing it big also!

Isn't this the cutest! It is an acrylic booklet! With places to add fun photos! I just made this tonight with some girlfriends at my other home...Scrapbook Addict! I have never made one of these and I was so pleasantly surprised how easy and fun this project was! I will be making a ton of these soon! And for anyone who knows me...the more embellishments and bling the better!!!!

And this is an easy project! Take any dollar spiral notebook. Trace front cover with textered cardstock and glue down to cover. And then add a contrasting patterned paper. And then cut a piece of contrasting ribbon and then add on flowers and rub-ons (over flower a bit) then buttons! And then using one of the greatest products...SOUFFLE (3-D opaque Puffy ink). It is waterproof on most surfaces and can be applied to most surfaces...which in my book ROCKS!

With much love,

All that is RoCk & RoLL...with a bit of NoStaLgiA thrown in!

2008-07-28T22:00:00.000-07:00

Here is another 'famous' Robyn & Adrien Mystery trip. It was my turn for July. So, since gas has been kicking the crap out of us. I decided to utlize the public transit system. And found some really cool things right around downtown Sacramento. Which I didn't even know excisted until I started to surf the net! We meet right downtown on K street. We had an early lunch...here at the HARD ROCK Cafe!

Here is the guy that seated us! I was so fascinated by his hair...and if anyone knows me...I will talk to ANYONE! So, there I was chatting up this 'Rock Star' and finding out what he did the night before (partied...no surprise there)when all of a sudden it hit me! Ask him to pose...and HE DID! He rocked, played right along. Loved his hair and his fun spirit!

OK...so of course, I have to show you how much this food rocked! I mean look at the burger, MAN o' Man! Now that is a serious burger friends! And since my best friend is so OPPOSITE of me and doesn't like anything BEEF...she got a serious Turkey Club! Check it out!
We walked out of there, very full and needed to walk five miles to work off that calorie intake! But WHO CARES! Gosh darn it...we are on a mystery trip! We don't hold back! We experience it all!
Well, we needed to get back on the light rail to head out to our actual mystery spot.
We mosey on over to our stop and begin to wait. And then to what would be my husband's dismay...what happens! Some guy asks ME for help! Yep...he picked the right girl! I am a sucker! I walk over and realize I am standing in front of an EX-CON who just got released a couple hours prior. The standard issue...white t-shirt and blue jeans and white sneakers and the ever present brown paper bag, containing all his worldly possessions. And when I looked up...there it is...the tatted teardrop right under his eye. What was a girl to do. So, asked what I could do for him....(hmmmm...maybe in hindsight not really the thing to ask an ex-con who hasn't seen a woman, well...in a while!) He smiled like a Cheshire Cat and gave me the once over, but me being a wise butt, just said...dude! What?! Then placed my hand on my hip looking annoyed. He then got all soft and timid and started to sound shy...WT Heck! Maybe he had run ins with women Correctional Officers...LOL! Any woo, I digress...he needed me to show him how to get a ticket. Yes, it has been that long since he has been out. Poor soul! Seemed nice enough, but kept it in the back of my mind that teardrop meant that he killed someone at some point in his criminal career. He thanked me profusely, the train came we all got on. Once on, he couldn't stop staring at me. It reminded me of those cartoons I have seen, where the dog looks at someone and sees them as a T-Bone steak. Yep...that is how I felt! LOL! It never ceases to amaze me the adventures Adrien and I have had on our mystery trips...amazing!

This is where I took us for our July Mystery Trip! It was truly fantastic and totally empty. Adrien and I were there on a Sunday, and there was almost no one there! It was glorious. We wondered around the museum as if we owned it! I for one love museums and history. So, this was a great combination. I highly recommend this for anyone who wants to get a better idea about our great state, California.

Great exhibits in this museum. Our first one that we came across had to deal with the Japanese American internment camps. This exhibit brought me to tears. It was a scary time for America...but to think we did this! I couldn't wrap my mind around it! The pictures and displays were haunting...and still resonant in my mind.

The pictures depicted what these Americans experienced on a daily basis.

Here is a photo depicting Ronald Reagan signing over a bill that passed, that would reimburse these hurt Americans and their families, years later! Almost all lost their land and farms and stores. And all that was precious to them. Even though they were tested like this...they still LOVED AMERICA! Truly amazing exhibit.

Then there were fun, uplifting exhibits as well. This was about the dogs used in service. Rescue and otherwise.

And as everyone knows by now...I am really into all types of ART! Here is some that was painted on the ceiling in one exhibit hall. Truly fantastic and can you image laying on your back with your arms in the air for hours at a time to paint this mural?

Then came to some local neighborhood history! This place is where all the lobbists would come gather and exhange notes and such! It was a fun place I hear and great cheap food! Love the derby hat! And here is Adrien enjoying some of the old booths and items from the cafe!

I am going to post some random photos of the museum as there are so many great things to see! I highly recommend coming and experiencing this musuem on your own accord. From A to Z this museum has it. Anything to do with California, it is in there. Art from one corner of the building to the other. Inspiration from one corner to other. Truly a gem in downtown Sacramento.

Then we came to (I think) one of the more interesting parts. I will let the photos do the talking!

Then we 'mickeyed' around once done with the whole tour of the musuem. They had 3 huge Mickeys in the little sitting area part of the museum where you could kick back and take a break.

Then we hopped back on to light-rail to get a cool, creamy treat! Now, this was worth waiting for!

Well, there it is! Our July Mystery Trip. A bit long but aleast there were a lot of photos...right?! Keep the peeps entertained as they scroll down the long, wordy post! LOL! It was fun. And an INexpenisive way to spend a Sunday with my best friend. Whom I just enjoy getting caught up in anyone of our adventures.
With much love,

Magnolia ThunderPussy!

2008-07-23T15:38:00.000-07:00

*Warning not a average Robyn posting...strong language and content, in respect for some of my regular readers*

This mystery trip was back in April! Yes...April. Adrien booked a walking tour of the Haight and Ashbury area! I LOVED IT! I am such a Jerry Garcia fan and really loved our tour guide. She was kooky and had fab stories. She has personally done(I mean meet)everyone from Jerry Garcia, Jimmy Hendrix, The Doors, Janis Joplin...and many, many more! The pic of the house below at one time housed the Hell's Angels! I know...get out! They lived right next door to Jerry Garcia. And how it was explained to me from my hippie tour guide, this is how Jerry came about having the Hell's Angels as his security.

This is Jerry Garcia's house. No big deal to most but to me...it rocked!

Here is a pic of our hippie-chick tour guide (looks as if she is trying to cup the whatnots of the mural...lol) She could talk and talk...and her stories were like listening to the history channel. We walked miles and miles, but some of the best miles.

And this brings me to the next photo. There I was standing on a crowded street corner taking everything in. When...BAM...hippie-chick tour guide says "Magnolia Thunder-Pussy used to have a place..." I burst out so loud with laughter, I swear everything came to a halt. I was rolling. That name alone evoked quite a picture in my mind. But seems she was a coolie-o type of chick. And really did live the hippie style life. Where what's mine is yours. Check out the blown up menu you will roll with laughter!

Double click on photo below to zoom in. I am telling you it would rock if we had a place around here where I could order the likes of "Pineapple Pussy".

And this is what I found when I Google searched! I only wish I had been able to meet this crazy-sex-pot growing-joint smoking-getting her drink on-loving gal! Can you imagine how fun that must have been back then. Yep...those were the days (well my friends Walker and Inner Voices still seem to be living the 'puff-puff-pass-get-their-drink-on' life style...lucky bastards!)
Magnolia Thunderpussy (c. 1940 – 15 May 1996), born Patricia Donna Mallon, was a San Francisco burlesque performer, radio personality, filmmaker and restaurateur. Thunderpussy operated two San Francisco restaurants in the 1960s: the one at 1398 Haight Street, which bore her name, featured a late-night delivery service and erotic desserts such as the "Montana Banana" (two "balls" of ice cream, whole banana, whipped cream and chocolate shavings) and the "Pineapple Pussy" (a hollowed pineapple filled with strawberry ice cream covered with whipped cream, chocolate shavings and a cherry).
Thunderpussy worked at several well-known dining and entertainment venues during her career, including the Boarding House (David Allen's nightclub on Nob Hill) and Capp's Corner (a restaurant in North Beach).
The Haight Street site is now occupied by a brewpub (also called "Magnolia" in memory of Thunderpussy).

There are crazy stores that line both sides of the main street. Crazy I tell ya! You have total chaos down there. Street performers and Hippies alike. Now of course the Hippies have a darker look, very rare to see tie dyes around. More like grunge.

And because the Hippie movement started in San Francisco, the fire department now has the Grateful Dead's logo on all their engines. Now, tell me that doesn't ROCK!

One of the best mystery trips for me. Very close to my rock-n-roll heart! And I am one for history and storytelling. I could have hung out all day listening to our Hippie-chick tour guide's stories. I would highly recommend this walking tour for anyone wanting to get immersed in some of San Francisco's diverse history.
Here is the simple link: Flower Power Walking Tour
With much love,

Thank You...to all of you!

2008-07-20T23:36:00.000-07:00

Thank you rules the day...all of you have made me not only feel 'beautiful' but embraced me in the blogger community. I did something that was simple in nature but terrifying in reality. I 'outed' myself on blogger. I had been getting tons of emails to reveal myself, which took time on my part. Then one night, all alone and feeling silly. I grabbed my trusty digital camera and set out to my master bathroom, which had the best lighting and the biggest mirror. And there I sat for an hour posing and shooting! Several (thousand...lol) shots later I felt I had some that would be fun and have the artsy feel I was striving for.

I then posted and then held my breath...and then 70 something comments later, I breathed easy. Nothing but love from the comments. Comments that brought tears to my eyes because they were so sweet and kind. And virtually all from strangers. I love blogging, each of your blogs has carried me to wondrous and well traveled paths. I have enjoyed learning about each of you. I have experienced the gamut of emotions on all the blogs I have visited. You name it, I have experienced it!
To my blogger family...I humbly thank you from the bottom of my heart. Thanks for making this one of the best experiences here on blogger!

And the LOVE Keeps Coming!

Terri over at Lakewood Manor and Lisa over at LisaLaughs have each given me an award! And it happens to be the same award! I am very honored to have this bestowed on me.

Terri is a truly inspiring woman to me. We have known each other online for a while now. We have shared alot of experiences together. Her father and I had Thyroid Cancer at the same time. And Unfortunately, that great man lost his life to the disease. Through my tough times with the disease she was a ray of sunshine and she gave so much of herself to me! I love you, Terri! Thanks for always being there for me!

Lisa is an incredibly talented artist in my book! She is amazing in the scrap booking and anything with paper world! Lisa and I have been in some swaps together and have come to enjoy our swaps together. I have learned a many things from this highly talented woman. Thanks for always being so lovely to me!
Here are the rules for the award:

The rules for receiving this award are:
1) Put the logo on your blog
2) Add a link to the person who awarded you.
3) Nominate at least 7 other blogs.
4) Add links to those blogs on yours.
5) Leave a message for your nominees on their blogs.

Here are the 7 people I nominate. All 7 are incredible in so many ways. I love their blogs and visit daily. Each one is so very different. And each brings something to the table. I love reading their tales and get so wrapped up in their posts. From creating art,to unraveling a mystery, to discovering one's journey, to wittiness. I have a huge blog role list, and if I could I have have put ALL of you. I think each of your blogs are incredible. To the 7 that were picked...thank you for blogs and thanks for sharing a peek into your worlds. I for one, have thoroughly enjoyed my journey to your blogs.

1. CSI Seattle - Fantastic man, friend, incredible writer, father,husband,teacher, and has a love for all that is CSI!

2. FarieBees - She has a knack for making her garden lush and inviting to all...people and little critters alike. She is an incredible thrift er and then turns around and makes something magical out of her find!

3. Lattes and Rainy Days - a new blogger friend to me, but have come to find that her and I have so much in common. Kirsten takes beautiful photos and her words haunt me. There is a ribbon of commonality between us.

4. Randy's Creative Hands - New to the blogging world. When Randy and I first meet, it was like meeting an old, lost friend. He is a gentle soul and has a god given talent. Randy is an incredible artist, he does wood crafting/arts. His skills are fine tuned and he has a quite the following in Arizona. Slowly but surely, I think Randy will find that his art will be making it's debut coast to coast.

5. The Old Professor/Paulz Blog - Some of you have been introduced to this wry and witty man. Paul has on a many occasion made me spit coffee onto my monitor while reading one of his witty posts. His posts have become a highlight in my day. I promise Paul will not disappoint. He is a very wise, wise Professor!

6. The Weather in the Streets - This woman is incredibly inspiring to me. Leah's writing is impeccable and her words are beautiful. I love her descriptions of events that have taken place. Leah is an incredible writer, mother, wife and most importantly, friend! This blog will not only have you laughing but will make you THINK!

7. Rose Cottage Studio - Last but certainly not least! This woman is beyond incredible. I have come to love my friendship with Suzanne. She is highly motivating and has a incredible heart of GOLD! Suze is selfless and loves everything...from animals to humans. I love her strength and her fire in her words. She is passion at its best! Promise you too will love her as much as I do!

So, my incredible friends please take the time and enjoy these wonderful blogs. Stop by and tell them 'Robyn' sent ya! You will not be disappointed.

With much love,

Through the looking glass...

2008-07-14T00:10:00.000-07:00

Through the looking glass I see the many faces and moods of Robyn. For all my blogger friends and those who are lurking in the back ground, I have come forth. I have posted pictures of other's faces...it is high time you all have a face with a name! I have taken a artsy spin on just a simple photograph. I had fun and played and posted those that I thought provoked the essence of Robyn. What do you think?!
Ok...besides being pre-color treatment for my premature greying (which I have inherited from my dear father who is snow white), and only having the master bathroom mirror to work with, since I had no other person here to capture my images...lol! Still had major fun and I can't tell you how much I laughed. Thank goodness no one walked in to me laughing uncontrollably. 911 would have been called and the 5150 call would have gone out for sure.

**UPDATE: And for the 21 emails wanting to know and getting my eye color wrong! As much as I got a giggle out of the odd requests, I am truthfully glad no one asked for nude shots...LOL! Here you go. My eyes...lol, are green my friends!

With much love,

The Great Escape!

2008-07-12T02:19:00.000-07:00

Need I say more! I am outta' of here! 5 days off and doing anything that doesn't require a bloody phone in my hand!

And no MORE SEEING this every day on my way to work!!! I'm not laughing you...*husband covering my mouth as to stiffle the expletives that are pouring out*
With much love,

Everything is coming up Roses!

2008-07-06T21:17:00.000-07:00

I had the wrong date...but WHO CARES! All of our birthdays should be celebrated all year long. Don't you agree, I personally think mine should be a national holiday! My blogger friend Suzanne, whom delivered a beautiful rose bouquet to my front door on my ACTUAL birthday, received a bouquet from me from all of US, bloggers! To celebrate what I thought was a birthday that had passed, but in fact still hasn't arrived. I ordered this bouquet from Rust Florist here in Sacramento to be delivered to Suze on a Friday...it didn't happen! WHAT?! I was furious, but come Monday Marty Rust made all right as rain!

And it seems that the this rose bouquet had some 'extras' added to make up for the mistake from the florist. I see this bouquet and see what she meant that it was beautifully 'full' of all that is lovely! It is breathtaking to see it the photo of the bouquet in her foyer!

Isn't that painting behind it beautiful! Stunning dear Suze! You are such a talented artist. I for one am thrilled that roses arrived in perfect condition and it came on a good day. I just wanted to celebrate your wonderful existence on this planet. You cheered me up on the most dreary day (me turning 38) with the most beautiful roses from your 'secret garden'. Your kindness has not gone unnoticed. It will be etched on my heart forever dear friend. I am glad these roses brought you a bit of happiness. Just seeing your post brought me ALOT of happiness! Happy EARLY birthday dear friend!

After having the bouquet for a while Suze realized that not all the buds were going to open fully so Suze decided to make them shorter stems and made up these perfect little bouquets for around her lovely house. She has truly extended their staying power. She is also going to dry the baby's breath for her Christmas tree this year. What a lovely idea...more extending 'that happy day'! And of course Oh No had to get in on the deal! Isn't he the cutest! Sweet fur face!

And of course, I had to show you what Glacier decided to do tonight that I thought was so cute. He has been so hot (we have been blasting the Air for him) so he went and hid. I looked every where for him. And then I had a panicked moment...but soon found him in my guest bathroom, taking up ALL the tile space.

From my big guy...Glacier and I! Hope you all are staying as cool as possible! And for my friend in Phoenix...I don't know how you deal with 'Hades' heat...aagghh 114! Too hot for this girl!

With much love,

I YURTED in Big Sur!

2008-06-23T22:05:00.000-07:00

Yes...you read correctly!! I have now YURTED in Big Sur, thanks to my darling best friend, Adrien! We started out on Saturday Morning, through obscene sightings (will get into more of that WAY later...*wink Adrien*), major lighting storms which inturn caused a MAJOR fire along the coastline on the Historic 1 Highway. We drove past the beginnings of the fire. Any later, we would have had to turn around and go all the way around which would have set us back by 4-5 hours. Right after we drove through they shut down that part of the Highway one and it still has not reopened as to date. WHEW! Thank goodness the YURT gods were with us!

We arrived to this wonderful place, tucked away in the meadows above the ocean. Since, we both have never been we were excited and really nervous at the same time,too! Adrien had planned 'Our FIRST over night' Mystery Trip. The place is called TreeBones Resort. Luxury yurt resort. Fantastic sleeping quarters. In our yurt we had a lovely queen size bed and a very comfortable futon with a very thick mattress.

A waffle breakfast is included (you make you own), which is highly addictive fun. I actually looked forward to making it every morning. And they serve the most delicious gourmet meals. One night we had Baked Salmon & Chipotle Chicken and another night we had Blackened Maui Maui & Grilled Garlic Tri-Tip. Utterly, fabulous. The meals were decadent and scrumptious. And it really made you feel as if you were at a full service (there is service but it is not total full service, you still share a communinal shower/bathroom) resort at meal times.

There were times when we each wanted to do our 'own' thing. I wanted to enjoy our fabulous view from the lodge's back patio, which had a exquisite wooden bar-type piece which was carried from one end to the other end of the patio. It is where I gathered my thoughts from the days events and savored the view with a delightful cup(s) of decaf (SLO town coffee, great stuff). Feeling the ocean breeze on my face and taken on some of the sun. Smelling the ocean air and letting my thoughts run ramped ed all the while listening to 'let-your-mind-slip-away' songs. I let my imagination run amok.
Or rest in between activites!

Once done with dinner, we enjoyed watching the sunset. Here are some great shots with one of the yurts.

And then we played a roaring game of RACK-O! In the TreeBones Lodge. Which unfortantly, Adrien won ALL THE GAMES!

I wanted to show this to you, to show the detail of even the inside roof of the yurt!

This is Highway 1 going to Cambria. We went into Cambria on Sunday late morning through the afternoon. We stopped at several Vista's along the way. The Shop's in Cambria are just darling and each with so much history. If you ever get the chance one must try to have lunch in this sweet little town and browse the little shops.

This is where we bought the most fablous sourdough loaf. We actually had it with our dinner back at the Yurt lodge. Yummy!

Some local decided to drive in to town for some lunch. Here is his 'driving around town doing errands' car! isn't that NICE!

Our way into Cambria was alot of fun too. We wanted to stretch our legs for a minute so decided to pull into a Vista point. When we happened across a HUGH Elephant Seal generation. Basking on the beach or letting each other know the other is boss. They are pretty aggrssive and that's why there are barriers. But, still fantactic to watch.

I saw this piece of art atop a wooden post at one of the Vista's, and Adrien suggested to snap photo. So, I did. And now I have to say this piece/shot represents quite a lot to me now when I look at it. To me it's nature simply at it's best!

And another favorite shot of the trip! Adrien just lost in her thoughts while walking and enjoying the ocean's surf.

On our way home, which was going to be a long haul, and trust me IT WAS! We decided to stop one last time at one of the Vista points. When Adrien and I both stepped out of the car, quickly we were being surrounded by ground squirrels. They followed us around all the way around the car. Poor Adrien was trying to get back in to the car when one little fellow looked as if he was going to hitch a ride. EEEEKkkkkk! So, she jumped in tossed me the car keys so I could open up the back and grab the last bit of sourdough as a ploy to move them away from the car. As soon, as a I had the bag....then there was 10 of them all standing on their hinds quarters waiting...just waiting for the first morsel to be thrown. BOLD little suckers!

By the time we were four hours in, let's just say....THANK GOD...for portable CD players! Due to Mother Nature's temper, we had to be diverted to the longest route availble back to Elk Grove. Not particulally the way I wanted to end the trip, but of course, being who I am made the best of a bad scenrio. I am sure nothing a good stretch and a good nights sleep couldn't cure.

I for one, will be left with incrediable memories of the belly rolling laughter. The deep thought evoked talks only two best friends could share. Just good all around fun. It was a great way to decompress with someone who I cherish and love dearly! I just wanted to take the time here to thank Adrien from the bottom of my heart for a fantastic memory building mystery trip! I am glad we shared this time together, I will cherish it for a life time.

If you want more great info on this resort, please come enjoy the site, at TreeBones Resort.
With much love,

All that is Altered...

2008-06-15T20:44:00.000-07:00

Hello blogger friends...yes, I know it has been about a week since my last post. Unfortunately, my work is working me to the bone...lol! Actually, it has been rather pleasant at work. Working on new friendships and staying in my happy spot!!!! Friends, I have been getting a ton of emails wanting me to showcase my altered work. So, with out for hesitation, here are some examples of my ART! Enjoy!
This peice is titled 'SeaTangle'. She rocks! Isn't she just gorgeous. I took an image of the net, used blue and green papers, rhinestones, glass pieces, Stickles, paper flowers, loads of different shades of green and blue ribbons and lastly a clipboard. Yes! I said clipboard! This is one of my altered clipboards altered art. I made her for a special lady who is ga-ga over all that is Mermaid! It was for a swap called 'Enchanted Swap'. To send things that meant enchanted to us, but to alter for our partners. She sent glowing reports once she opened the swap box. I am so glad she loved it. It meant alot for me to make 'SeaTangle' for her. I know she will treasure it. I love this piece, because one can use it as a traditional clipboard (but why would you), but I am sure she choose how it was really intended as a altered piece of wall art!

Here is a simplier version of a altered clipboard. But this one was made for a very special lady...my bestfriend, Adrien. She loves everything Princess. And NO GLITTER! Which is extremely hard for a glitter-o-holic! But, I came up with a pretty design where she (wanted) can had a special photo. And use it as a altered frame as sorts. Fab idea!

Here are a couple of my altered tablets...these two were for swaps. Of course, everything was coming up CUPCAKES! Can I tell you, to me cupcakes are so delish but so darn cute as well. I have a fairly great collection thus, far. I love that I used loads of ribbon. I ADORE ribbon!

I also did a law enforcement tablet for a swap buddy as well. As, soon as I get those photos from her, I will post those as well. I loved the way it turned out. And guess what?! I forgot to take a photo....aarrghghhh! So, maddening for me. I forget to take photos of finished products. But she is a doll and will send them to me or I will take a peek in her flicker account and then post from there.

Here is one of my many altered journals, that also made it's way to a swap buddy. This was a simple design, due to the paper choice. I added the ribbon marker and page turner as bonus embellishments. I thought it turned out darling. And these are so fun to make also!

Here is one of my altered lil' lunch boxes. I made this at a scrapbook retreat and this was the first piece that started my journey to altered arts. I then was approached by a lovely woman. She is a Girl Scout Administrator, and she was hosting a get-together for the older young ladies in Girl Scouts (whom I assume will move on to be leaders or something along that) and she approached me to make about 20 of these boxes. The color scheme changed to all shades of green/soft golds. And used the Girl Scouts emeblem on the box and put each young ladies name on the box. Added TONS of ribbon and sprakle. What was so fantastic about this deal, I made a pretty penny on those 20 boxes. Enough to pay for my 1st OVERNIGHT Mystery Trip with my bestfriend, Adrien. YES! you heard right...Adrien! I actually took your advice AFTER all these many years and LET SOMEONE PAY ME for my art. Instead of always giving it away. This was a fun project and she loved them and so did her young ladies."...squealed with delight when they arrived at the luncheon.", she wrote. I was thrilled. Sooner than later I will launch my ETSY business.

Altered Art just isn't just about paper projects, they are also mantle pieces or tablecenter pieces as well. As in this altered Bunny Topiary. Look at all those lovely colors, and then the plush green. This too was a big hit!

This piece has been a HUGH success for me as well. I have now sold over 30 of these little guys (Big Clothes Pin Clip). I love these as well. They are handy and look fab anywhere in the house,office,car (yes...I said car...someone wanted one for her car).

I love these little guys so much. My Artist Trading Cards are now starting to get some recoginition not just locally (within in the U.S.) but now Internationally. I am thrilled to bits about this. I really do love these little pieces of art, which are just lovely expressions of our world around us, that fits in a pocket...LOL! I too, have collected some beautiful pieces.

Thank you all for indulging me. I just couldn't answer all the emails I have received about my ALTERED ART pieces. My only way too, was to do make a post about it. It is nice to showcase my art, it is like showing you a part of my soul. To some this might seem a simple art form, while others look upon it with awe. That is the beauty of art....it's in the EYE OF THE BEHOLDER!

With much love,

Meet the 'Old Professor'...

2008-06-09T02:22:00.000-07:00

I was catching up my blogging when I went to one of my (many) favorite sites, Meggie Cat, when I noticed something new in her side bar. Something about an old professor. I was intrigued. I clicked on the link and was brought to a delightful, witty blog. It is written by an 85 year 'young', retired professor, who lives in Carmel (very nice). Paul is the father of 'Meggie Cat'. I was so drawn in by his writing I had to read ALL of his wonderful posts. I think you will find his blog insightful and full of witty humor. I really do love his perspective on things. I have spent a good many hour, browsing through his posts. I have learned that he was a pilot in WWII, he has horses, lives in Carmel, his favorite fruit is a nectarine and the posts keep coming. It really has been wonderful to read his posts. I have caught myself laughing out loud at some of his wittiest posts. Paul has great insight and I just had to post about my 'new blogging friend'.
And who couldn't use a new friend...right? Please go and have a good read. It really was one of my highlights for the evening. Introducing The Old Professor.

With much love,

Gifted Hands

2008-06-01T03:01:00.001-07:00

Hello Bloggers!
I really wanted to post about my new friend...Randy! Since, in my endeavor to 'get to know' him and on our way to a new friendship, I have discovered he is a very talented artist. A creative wood working artist. As the piece of above is just one of his creations, the photo doesn't give it justice. This eagle is done using a combination of Pine, Maple and Red Oak. Matching grains and colors to come up with a beautiful, custom piece of art.

Randy does all sort of creative wood working, as you can see. Once, I was lead to his website...I was awe struck. The work that goes in to the fine detail. The matching of grains of wood and then finding the right color to make the piece come alive. Some of his art can be seen in some military installations (offices), some done for retirements or just wanting that unique piece of military art. He has been commissioned by several people for very precise custom pieces. And you will see a handful of some of those custom pieces.

Aren't those just mind blowing! This is just a very small sampling of his work. Since most, if not all, know by now that I adore art. Any type of art! I am always so fascinated by an artist who makes something so awe inspiring from something so raw. It is truly a gift!
I really want you all to check out his website, you are in for a treat!
Oprah even bought one of his 'famous' wooden roses....who wouldn't want one of those!

I even found an article written up on him in his home town of Arizona. He was chosen as featured artist in 'Artist of the Valley', here is his interview.
With much love,

To find peace...that is what one desires.

2008-05-22T23:24:00.000-07:00

May's Mystery Trip: Japanese Tea Gardens in Golden Gate Park, San Francisco,CA.

I planned 'our' Mystery Trip for May. The invitation read as this: Cherry Blossoms bring the bling to the trees! I love May for all it's spring like qualities. Everything is popping up through the ground, the breezes are gentle. And when I try to discover a little bit of heaven in this crazy world. To find some peace! I have never been to the Japanese Tea Gardens as long as I have lived here in Sacramento/Elk Grove. And I figured neither as Adrien who has been here longer. So, off we set for our adventure. My dad had given me some different directions. He printed out directions to take the old river road all the way to the 160. It was lovely! Just perfect. We chatted the whole way. Once in San Francisco that is when we took our de-tours (got a bit lost). But as usual, we did not freak out, we took it all in stride. Laughing at points, when I had a death grip when we were going down a VERY steep hill, while Adrien on the other hand, threw her arms up in the air, as if on a roller coaster ride. Once, we parked (found a prime spot), we were off. The directions inside the park are just perfect. We arrived at the lovely big wooden doors. And entered into a lush green world, where traffic couldn't be heard, most people spoke in hushed voices, and there was a slight cool breeze. Water could be heard all around us. It was glorious, some place so lush, beautiful. My slice of peace. Here are some of the pictures to share with you all. Here is our journey of peace!

And in the end, we headed to the Tea House, were served a choice of Green Tea or Jasmine Tea. We each had one of the choices. We sat quietly, listening to the babbling water and the songs the birds sang. Felt the cool breeze on our necks. It truly was 33 acres of heaven.

Peace on top of a mountain: Edgewood (Pro)Golf Country Club, South Lake Tahoe, NV.

This is the view I saw once I parked my car at Edgewood. I had gone up Wedesday to meet up with my husband and his bestfriend, Bert. My husband, Jim had planned their version of a mystery trip. A golfing mystery trip. The goal is to play at golf courses neither have ever played at. Since, this was Jim's idea (which he got from Adrien and I's trips) he planned it. He researched and decided this was going to be their first course. And since Jim had seen the photos online, thought I could use a break as well. I have just gotten off working 4 - 12 hour shifts back to back (I am convinced that my bosses are trying to kill me...aagghhh!). He asked if I wanted to come up and play (mostly drive the cart, drink hot chocolate)and I almost screamed YES! I couldn't wait to get out of Sacramento/Elk Grove for a day trip. I left early and arrived around 11:10am. Drove through a lovely grove of pine trees and finally parked my car, to view this! BREATHTAKING!

On some of the holes you could hear babbling brooks that cut through the course. And I could hear the wind in the pines. The air was pure, cold but pure, nonetheless. I bundled up and we set off on the carts. Just in awe of the panaramoic views. It was truly just gorgous to witness, such perfection.

We saw the locals (Geese) and their little ones, all in fuzz! Their were gorgous and seemed totally clueless that we were there. We could hear them honk from a distant hole. It was fun to see wildlife right there in front of us. We came on the back nine and saw what work a beaver was doing to a small pine. I wish we had seem him. He was doing a fine job on that tree, very uniformed indeed. For hours we all 3 enjoyed each other and took deep breaths. And we kept commenting on the views. Once, done with the first 18, we went back out for another 18. 36 holes of golf in one day! Just FANTASTIC! We had a early dinner before we headed out for more golf, though. I took off once we completed 36 holes, by then the wind was howling and the temp had dropped a lot. I gave kisses and hugs all around and headed out. I got in my car and turned on the heater! Jim called me today 5/22 at around 730am, screaming excitedly in the phone...."Honey! You will never believe what it is doing right now? IT'S SNOWING!" HUH?! You say! You read right! SNOW! It never really stuck to the ground, just snow flurries. Nonetheless, it was snowing! To say the least, the boys were joyful! When I am having a very busy day, I shall look back on these 2 days and remember the peace they gave me. I hope these photos brought some peace to all of you as well. Enjoy!

With much love,

All things BIRTHDAY! Yipppeeee!

2008-05-09T16:35:00.000-07:00

HELLO BLOG LAND! How I have missed my dear blogging friends!!! April was just heck on poor ol'me! Between depression on turning 38 and then walking pneumonia! What else needs to be said...well, actually a lot! I have a lot of thank you's first off. One in particular to dear Suze (known by many as Suzanne)! She made the trek out to Elk Grove to deliver the vase of flowers that you are looking at now. Yes! She did...cut them from her own 'secret garden' and placed them so loving in a vase and set them by my front door. She then signed everyone names who has left a comment of my blog! It was precious. My husband and I figure these flowers were outside for 15 minutes or less, when hubby found them. And showed me while I was squealing like a school girl. Dear Suze...thank you from the bottom of my heart this was the most heartfelt thing that happened on my birthday. I mean that...! No one else thought to suprise me with something as simple as a vase of flowers or something else (ballons or cake). You made my day! Heck, I even had to think what I wanted to do on my birthday! Oh well...

I went to a Mexican restaurant for my birthday dinner, had this! It was ok...not the best in town but for faitias it was ok. But, what they brought out next sent me over the moon! Yummy!

Doesn't this look fantastic...and believe me when I say all four of us (that is how many came)dove right into! It was the best!

Then we went to a local place called 'Moon River Inn'! To play darts and have some drinks (me far to many to count...next remember depression + lots of drinks = hangover...Adrien her turn at darts). I had simple ol'fun, laughing and laughing more, it got a bit hot in the bar but oh well...we still played and listened to some music. Got to see a young lady spill her drink all over my hubby and fall to the ground! Yep...it was one of those types of bars...a hole in the wall! LOL! Not the best birthday but one I shall not forget soon.

I had a Scrapbook Retreat on my birthday weekend! I still attended (I didn't start getting sick until Saturday afternoon) I was going to enjoy this...if it killed me and it ALMOST DID! Here is my room at the hotel. It was suprisingly nice. It had a very mod feel to it. Nice!

At the retreat one of the hostess's created a Who's who? board! So, we all needed to bring a childhood photo and let everyone guess! I am at the bottom left (fairly large photo at the very bottom, wearing PJ's and looking up at the camera). That was fun and frustrating at the same time!

Here is one of the things I created! It is a hugh altered clothes pin! I discovered I LOVE doing altered things! I am selling these, so if anyone would like me to make one (email me and let's talk).

Then I made and finished this altered clip board for Adrien! She loved it! It is so her...Pink and Princess! I loved making it for her! I made other things and I will have to post those soon, I just forgot to take a pic of them at the retreat!

And this is what the hostesses gave me to celebrate my passed birthday! Isn't it cute?!
Jim gave me some lovely perfume from Lancome called 'Miracle' and I just adore it!
So, overall not a bad birthday and have some good memories, but watch out on my 40th! I am so going to have a BLOW OUT! I really have to except the fact that I am getting older and there is no stopping the time. I have learned to buck up and take the hit on the chin and move on. No need to wallow in self pity and wonder if I can make the wrinkles and lines stop! Again, lovely friends thank you for the kind words and sentiments of encouragement! I have treasured each comment! I will be around soon to see how everyone is doing. I have missed you all something awful! Thank you again from the bottom of my heart! Hugs and kisses all around!
With much love,

I have been really, really, really SICK! Yuck!

2008-05-02T23:12:00.001-07:00

Hello all my dear blogger friends! I am SO SORRY that I have not been on here and have not shown you all my lovely photos of my birthday! Especially the lovely BLOGGER surprise flowers, hand carried by no other than 'our' dear Suzanne...Suze for short!
Unfortunately, the Saturday of my Scrapbook Retreat I started to get sick, I thought something simple as a sore throat. BOY! Was I wrong, by the time I drove to Monterey (Ca.). on Sunday, I had a temp of 102! Yep...I was sick! By Monday...well let's just say I thought I had walking pneumonia!! Couldn't breath...Jim took me to a local clinic...more like dragged me to it! I felt like death warmed over. The Doc in the box decided I didn't have walking pneumonia but a VERY, VERY cold/cough. NO PRESCRIPTION to fix this. Just good ol'fashion...getting tucked in, staying warm, lots of cough syrup and other over the counter meds. I put myself into a self medicated coma! And I didn't want to wake up until I was better! I am back at work, getting better by the minute!
I just wanted to post quickly and let everyone now, that I have some screwed up work schedule...one day on/one day off/one day on. I truly do think they are trying to kill me off...yes, I think it a conspiracy!
I love you all *hack...hack* (don't get to close...still not 100%)but getting back to my ole' self. Shortly I will post all the lovely photos of happier days!
And I will thank you all properly! Love and miss you all! I will be back soon! I promise...no cold is holding me down to long! LOL!
With much love,

And this is what I end up feeling like...

2008-04-11T01:34:00.000-07:00

Well blogger friends...you all were probably wondering where the heck I've been! Right?! Here I am working my tail off in the office! I tell you I really have to force myself out of bed every morning to get to my job. I swear, I would rather get my teeth pulled than go into work. The above photo is just one peek into my fabulous job. I suppose you could call me a computer geek, spending close to 10 hours a day at the desk, typing away. Placing doctor orders in, so patients can get the right meds to make them better. HEY! What about sharing! Yes...the go-to girl would love a nip of the ol'dilaudid. To make the day go faster.

Let's not digress shall we...back to moaning and bitching about one's job! No respect, no glory! Heck! Not even a damn THANK YOU. Would it be so hard to once in a while throw the little people a bone of gratitude once in a while. I really don't trust or even really like anyone for that matter. But, I plaster on a smile and poise myself at the desk to look like I am ready for the day. The whole time begging for a earthquake to shimmy one side of the building, so that it is damaged beyond repair....ok *packing up desk* I am out of here pronto! Oh...to wonder over to some wonderful beach with a great book. And just hear the surf...instead of listening to a army of phone calls (almost 750 calls a day).Just some form of ESCAPE! Something...almost anything! It is enough to drive a girl to the drink. I have become best buds with Jack,Jim,Jose!

On a lighter note...I have also been preparing for a Scrapbook Retreat. Since, my birthday falls on a Wedesday (April 16th) I am celebrating by treating myself to this retreat! It is 2 nights and 3 days. I can't wait to dive right into all the clever things the hostess's have got planned! Getting things put together and deciding what I want to make and bring....I know the pressure of it all!

The Owners/Hostesses who are putting on Retreat!

My second home, Jim calls it! I have invested a ton in this store! A TON!

And tooboot, my baby nephew is horribly sick (poor baby) so I have been over there every spare minute to help out where I can.

Things are going well, well almost well. I will have not seen Jim in 3 weeks by the time he comes home! If you see a sock...don't come a knocking! *evil grin*
Love to you all! And it just really warms my heart that some of you really missed me and I read all the warm fuzzies! I adore all of you to bits!
With much love,

Hockey Pucks and Art...who knew?!

2008-03-31T16:15:00.000-07:00

My bestfriend and I do a mystery trip once a month. We each take turns on planning a trip. This was Adrien's month. And she took me to Stockton to see The Stockton Thunder Hockey Team! And WHO KNEW...it turned out that I LOVE hockey! It was so much fun. Yelling and jumping up and down for the home team to score! It was cold(just wear layers and you will be fine) and loud! I loved it...we both ended up seeing and doing something totally new for both of us! I was working on some photos today and came across the mystery trip. It evoked great memories and wanted to share.

It was this year in Feburary. And as most of you know, I love art. And it was incredable to see that even the stadium (which is quite impressive itself) had art around it.

Just a stroll down memory lane today. Wanted to share a great day with all my blogging friends! Enjoy! And if you live in Northern California, I highly suggest going to see the Stockton Thunder Hockey. The tickets ran us about 14-16 a piece and we got great seats as you can see from the photos.
With much love,

All that is CRAFTING! (lots of photos)

2008-03-24T23:59:00.000-07:00

I made this mermaid Dotee doll for my partner on Swap-bot! Isn't she sweet! All sparkly and ready for a dip in the ocean! It was fun to make, but these little cuties take me over 2-3 hours to make. I really try hard to make their personalities pop!
These are my Black and White w/a touch of red ATC's series. Also for a swap. I did quite a few of these! Here are the rest.

Button ATC series.

Fantasy ATC series! I loved all the glitter I used here. I am so glad that I am now taking photos of my art!

Another Pin-up Girls ATC series.

And I joined in Speckle Egg's Nest swap!

My partner was Jackie over from Wren's Nest! And what a lovely partner she was!
Go check out her blog Wren's Nest!
Here is what I made her!

Isn't this darling! Here is what Jackie made and sent me! I adore that little guy!
(borrowed image from Jackie's site)

I was also in this swap:

We had to make 11 items and send them to our hostess. She then in turn would collect from all 11 people and send off our care package. Chuck-full of goodies! Here is what I received!

Last but not least, here is what I made for the Hippity Hoppity Swap!
Vintage Easter Magnets!

Just wanted to share with you what I have been up too. While I have been out sick from work, at least keeping my hands busy even though I had to keep my feet up! LOL!
With much love,

Finished the Race!

2008-03-16T21:45:00.000-07:00

I DID IT! I finished my first ever 5k walk! Not the greatest time but found out I wasn't last either! Yea! There were 4 of us but soon there was only 2 of us! LOL! Two in our party had a faster pace...off they went. Cora and I not as fast, stayed together chatting the whole way. It was surely lovely to be out this brisk morning...man was it FREEZING this morning. But soon the sun was up and so, was my spirits! The excitment all around us was incrediable.

Just a cute shot! I thought it was fun and cute to put all of our feet together!

These people in front of us were our pacers...getting to see their lovely wings flutter in the wind this morning was sure fun!

And part of the race lead us to an area that I had never been. On the River Walk! It was gorgous to see and smell clean fresh air. I had a blast with my racing buddies. We have decided to rename our group the "Scrapbookers in Action" (that will be in the front) and on the back it will read "scrapbook this!". I know..I know only scrapbookers humor! But it will be fun to be a little team and encourage and inspire others to get up off their duff and enjoy the RACE!
With much love,

More Pin Up Girls! & Off to the Race!

2008-03-15T20:56:00.001-07:00

I received these today! They came all the way from Alaska...and she did a wonderful job. I have really enjoyed this swap and the creativity that goes into the altered media art! Well hope you enjoy!

Tomorrow 4 of us are meeting up and going to the race...Race, you say?! Yes the race. It is the annual Shamrock'N Race. It is a fun race to raise money for Prostate Cancer (they choose different places where the money will go annually). I have to get up by 530am and meet up by 645am! Yes, the race actually starts at 810am but they are expecting over 5,000 racers tomorrow. Which will make it very difficult for parking. Cross your fingers that we find parking (I am sure we will). I am doing it to help a great cause and follow through on some new years resolutions! To be more active and help out my community!

With much love,