Grandma Taylor's Blog

My Christmas Cactus

2012-01-26T20:17:00.000-08:00

My Christmas Cactus all in bloom. It was real pretty this year. Then Lily Catherine Stinky Snow White whose last name is Princess came to Visit. Doesn't she look like a princess, too.

Oh well, my Grand kids are more important than a flower. Besides I could glue them back on if I really wanted to.

As my mother use to say, (Bless their hearts they can do what they want here.)

Carol and Howard's Visit

2012-01-22T22:06:00.000-08:00

Carol and Howard got tired of the Utah's weather and came to California for a visit and to play cards with us.

Friends made in Chile are friends forever. A trip to the beach was in order. Sights on or near the pier.

Then lunch at the Crab Cooker made a perfect outing complete.

Thanks Carol and Howard for coming to see us. We loved ever minute of it.

2012-01-22T21:41:00.000-08:00

LAX Airport

2012-01-06T14:16:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I agreed to go to LAX and pickup my good friends Susanne, John and Christina Hathaway this morning. They were returning home from Fiji. What was I thinking, I haven't driven there in almost 15 years. Laurie told me oh, it is easy just the 91 to the 605 to the 105 and your are there. Scott called me last night to check that I was really going to go and pick them up. I think he was a little worried.

After saying my prayers this morning. With directions and map from Dennis. He review them with me over a couple of times. I load the car drink, snack, coat and all my directions I am off. It is 9:15 after rush hour and I don't have to be there until 10:30. I keep saying to my self I will be okay. We live just off the 15. Easy I can get from the 15 to the 91. The 91 is no problem . Passed the 71. Next stay right so you don't end up on the 55. Be sure to stay on the 91 as you pass the 57 and the 5. Now watch for the 605. Get on the 605 North, stay alert because you are only going to be there a few minutes. . Don't get off on the exit, stay on 605 North just one more minute. Stay right so you can get to the 105 . GOOD I MADE. I am on the 105 now. Just stay here until I get to the Airport. Pass the 710. Pass the 110. Pass the 405. Just a little more and I will make it. It is now 10:19 I should be there just right. A sign telling of up coming LAX. Now, just follow the signs. /2 right lanes for LAX. Then Arrivals. My self phone rings it is Christina. Hi,=== I am almost there,=== We are at United number 6====Baggage claim area thinking aloud instead of to myself===where are you==== number one ===we will watch for you bye=== Good I can't multitask, talk to christina and read signs. I just keep going slow . there are numbers all over the place. where is number six. I keep going slow by the time I am at number three before I have it all figured out. #4, #5, I have just about made it. #6 and there they are. I go to pull in and another car honks. I get parked a little futher up. I get out open up the back and Then I ask who wants to drive my car back home. John says he will and I hand him my keys.

The kicker is as I pick up my coat on the floor of the front pas sager seat. No purse under it. I had forgotten my purse, money and driver licence home. Then people wonder why we don't like to pick up anyone at the LAX.

Oh the joys of California freeways in LA. One thing I can say about the California, no one is worried about gettin two cars ahead. I can still drive to LAX even though I am 70 plus.

It is over and very quiet.

2011-12-27T10:09:00.000-08:00

Christmas is over and Catherine and Greg left this morning with Daisy.

Doesn't Jakie look excited about the Rudolph costume he got from Daisy.

Daisy gave Dad a daisy bb gun so he can shoot the cats and racoons who visit our yard. One of the big cats had beaten up on little Jakie, so Dad is mad. Daisy had a ball watching the fish in the fish pond and trying to lick them.

We had a wonderful Christmas with some of our family. We are always happy with those that can come. Melissa, Dave and family came over on Christmas day and the Willow, Poppy and Phoenix spend the night. I always love having them they lived up the place.

Belated Merry Christmas to all of you who check my blog.

The Moose

2011-12-18T20:05:00.000-08:00

I bought a Christmas decoration at Home Depot. Thinking we wouldn't have to climb up on any ladder to display it. As I dump it out on the floor, this will be easy only twelve pieces. Wrong!

Day one: I couldn't get their clasps to work and still hold him togeter.

Day two : I tried to wire him together. All that happened was bloody hands from all the wires sticking into them.

Day three and four: I like to sew, maybe that will work. With a large yarn needle and red yarn I just started sewing and making knots. At last I have a moose four days later.

Day five: How do I get electric to him and another trip to Home Depot.

Now isn't he worth five days of work? I think so

Merry Christmas

2011-12-16T08:06:00.000-08:00

It is starting to look like Christmas around here. The tree is up and some of the presents are wrapped. I am still wishing for a white Christmas. I don't think I will get it, in southern California. Do you?
Merry Christmas to everyone. Keep checking my post for Christmas news.

Twister quilt and etc.

2011-11-20T18:33:00.000-08:00

The easiest quilt pattern I have ever made and it looks real difficult. The lady at the quilt shop talked me into trying it. She claimed it was easy. I really didn't believe her. So this is my little sample I made before I cut up all the material for Melissa's black and white quilt. To my surprise, I could do it and it was real real easy. I plan on making more using this pattern only different sizes. This one is going to be used for top of my table. I needed a bag to put my bobbin lace pillow in. So I made this bag. The same pattern on both sides just different colors and a big pocket inside. I made several little draw string bags out of the scraps. To use for what ever.
I am having a ball making quilts. What a fun talent I just found.

Bobbin Lace

2011-11-09T10:17:00.000-08:00

Some of my recent bobbin lace projects.

My floppy little angel. She was just floppy then I added wire to her wings and etc. I love the way she turned out. A butterfly pin with a mini bobbin as the body.

I What fun they were making.

Fishy fishy

2011-11-01T23:50:00.000-07:00

I caught this fish. When we were in Mexico last week. I think it's a perch. Not bad looking either. Dennis wanted some fresh fish so I did my best to get him one. No, I didn't buy it from the fishmen either. I really did catch it. Yummmmmm-mmmm, he was good. I didn't use hooks either. Who would want a hook stuck in their mouths after just trying to get something to eat. Then being drug by a line into a boat or up a sandy beach.

He was caught, by the out going tide in just 2-5 inches of water. So I just scooped him up in my shelling bag. I really saved him from being pecked to death by a sea gulf.

HALLOWEEN

2011-10-22T22:31:00.000-07:00

I love Halloween. Need I say more.
I made this center piece for my table. Don't you love the big flies, too. I found this little witch playing the piano at Melissa's house. She may of been afraid of the two big spiders crawling on the roof. I guess witches are not all brave.

Happy Halloween.

2011-10-22T22:28:00.000-07:00

2011-10-22T22:24:00.000-07:00

Our trip to Utah

2011-10-14T21:29:00.000-07:00

We went to see some good friends, from our mission in Chile. I don't know where the Snow's were . I guess they were hiding from pictures taking, like I do. But here are Carolyn and Richard Wilson, Victor and Adele Austin, the owners of the cabin. I was all excited to see the fall colored leaves. That the thing I miss most living in California is the fall colors and the winter snow. We did get to see some color leaves on the way up up the mountain. Then it started to snow so we couldn't stop to take pictures. The perfect snow, big fluffy flakes that pile up on quickly the ground. Now both of my wishes were coming true, color leaves and snow.

The next morning these are some of the sights I found. Snow on color leaves and snow with iceles on another tree. Victor took us for a ride in his truck ( 4-wheel drive ) to see what leaves we could find. I have more pictures with snow and colored leaves and just plain snow on trees. It was beautiful there.

How is this for a frosty tree. A fairy land indeed.

We had a wonderful time. We played cards and ate way too much and just plain visited and put a puzzle together. Thanks Austin for letting us come.

Summer is Gone

2011-09-30T08:21:00.000-07:00

When summer is over the little Ana Humming birds leaves. They are the green ones with a red throat. Only the little brown year rounders stays. These are very tiny and look the size of a small cotton ball. No more sitting outside and listening to them fight or watching them as I wash dishes. No more being ordered to fill their feeder when it is empty. Taking a break from fighting. Fighting is what they love to do this all day long. I think sword fighting is their hobby. All too hyper. But, you would be hyper too if all you ate was sugar and all day long. They are out fighting, when it is barely light in the morning and the last to go to bed at night. Fun little birds to watch.

They are very territorial. No one else can drink from their feeder. Hiding to protect the feeder from another humming bird. There is enough food for everyone, but no you can't share. Putting up several feeder still don't help.

Our little brown year around humming bird.

I love watching them, as you can tell.

Look what I found on my Patio

2011-09-23T10:26:00.000-07:00

I found this cute little guy on my patio. But he wouldn't pose for me . I wanted a picture of him praying or one of his face. It was getting dark and he didn't like the flashing.

A praying mantis is a harmless little bug and a favorite of many. His favorite food is harmful bugs making him a gardeners friend.

Trip to see Ben and Christine

2011-09-11T20:12:00.000-07:00

We just got home from visiting Benny and family. Our 10th grandbaby was blessed. Her name is Lexie Paige Taylor. What a sweet little baby. We had so much fun just spoiling the kids. Logan caught on real quick and wanted grandma to side with him. But I always told him he had to do what his mom and dad wanted him to do.

Watch out Lily grandpa has found another little girl to hold and love.

Grandpa taking Logan for a ride around the mall on the train.

We had such a good time. It was sad to leave because those two little grandkids will be changed next time we see them.

Bobbin Lace LUCKY MOUSE Book Marks

2011-08-24T20:17:00.000-07:00

I made some bookmarks for my grandkids for their scriptures. Handmade by grandma. I had fun making them in all different colors.

It was fun to see who would pick what color. I was wrong on all of them. Here's a close up of a blue and white mouse.

Do you know what a bunch of mice are called? I didn't until I looked it up on the internet.

Either a horde or a mischief of mice.

They were easy and fun to make. Only about 7-9 hours from start to finish. I hope my grandkids remember that grandma made them speciality for them.

Creative kids at Grandma's

2011-08-15T08:18:00.000-07:00

One day when the grandkids were here and bored. They wanted me to take them to toy r us and buy them something, I didn't want to.

So, I cut some branches off a tree ( I had been wanting to anyway). Went to Home Depot and bought some rolls of bright colored masking tape. Let them do just what they wanted to. This is what they came up with. They had hours of fun and it was cheap.

Last week, Poppy said she didn't want me to buy her any new school clothes. She wanted to go to Home Depot and get some nails, wheels, and wood instead. So off we went to Home Depot. This is what she came up with this time. I still have some wood left for the next visit.

I just love this little girl and her special personality. Weapons are her speciality.

Just ask Poppy about her battle scars she got making it.

SEAWORLD 2011

2011-08-04T20:29:00.000-07:00

I went to Seaworld with Melissa and Kids last Thursday.
Seaworld has changed since I was last there. Lots of rides and carnvil stuff and not many fish displays. They still do have some shows, which we went too. The mania ray tank is being replaced for a ride, why.

You cantell the kids they will never win anything from Carnvil games. But, that is what they want to spent their $5 on anyway. @#$%&#$%^ oh well. Then Willow wins this fish her first try. Now we have to carry it all over with us. It is too big for them to carry, so mom carrys it. It was a good thing we were in Melissa's van or we may had to leave a kid behind in order to get the fish home. Grandma fish-sets (this big blue fish) while everyone else goes on rides. It wasn't so bad as I got to rest in the shade. Now isn't that a good looking fish. See how big the thing is.

Lily Catherine Stingy Snow White, and her last name is Princess. Now isn't that a mouth full for such a pretty little princess.

We had fun but was tired when we got home.

PREVIEW OF OUR TRIP TO UTAH

2011-07-27T10:40:00.000-07:00

We just got home from Utah. We stopped at Dennis's brother Tim on the way up. Attended the Shakespear Festival with them. We saw Midsummer Night. I really enjoyed it.

Stopped at my brother house and meet his oldest grand daughter. What a cute young lady.

Then to Our Tim's house where we met up with Catherine and Greg.

Up to my sister home in Bountiful and spent a night there. Tim and Aleca and family came too. Camille's family joined us for pizza that evening.

Then to the Snow's for a couple of days.

We had lots and lots of fun. Uncle Greg holding his own.

Our trip to Utah.

2011-07-27T10:27:00.000-07:00

The little people we went to see. Tim and family have moved to Utah. They have their new home ready for visitors, now. I think we were the first ones to visit. Catherine and Greg came over from Colorado also. Have your ever wanted to feel like a Hamster in a bubble. Here is Rugs and Zoey just hanging out in their bubble.

We went to a neat place with just tampolines covering the whole floor. Em was the only one trying to do a flip.

Draper Days was fun too.

Breckyn just resting in her bubble.

We had so much fun visiting, going out to eat and played games one night. Thanks for letting us come and visit you.

Part 2 trip to Utah

2011-07-27T10:13:00.000-07:00

We also went to visit the Snow's and they took us up to their cabin. The omlet that Howard made for all of us. Yummmmmmmmm.
We ate way too good.

We saw these birds in a marsh. Not sure what kind they are. Any one know???? We also saw a baby deer with all its spots on.

We went fishing at this lake. Howard caught one. Isn't it pretty?? The mountains around their cabin are so beautiful and forested. I love to just sit on their deck and look. It is no wonder I miss all the mountians in Utah. Out mountian here in California just don't compare with them.

Thanks Snow's for letting us visit with you.

Learning to sew.

2011-07-10T20:07:00.000-07:00

Willow and I have been planning this day for a long time. She wanted me to teach her to sew, tat, bobbin lace or knit. The day finally arrived. Willow and Poppy spent the night, so I could teach them. Willow decided she wanted to sew on my machine and make a bag. Poppy wanted to make a sock monkey. We started at 9:00 am and worked all day only stopping for lunch. Her bag .

For the first timer on the sewing machine, she did excellent. Only one short seam needed to be taken out. How is that for a sweet granddaughter.

I only had to help her get started and then she was able to do the rest by her self. Her seams were straight. Notice we even made it reversable.

Poppy's Sock Monkey. I did the machine sewing and she stuffed it and did all the hand sewing.

Hard at work. I never got a picture of Willow sewing. We were too busy.

The monkey required lots on hand work. She never gave up and finished the whole monkey.

It doesn't matter, the color of the thread or all the stiches show, after all she is only 7.

I can't wait until next time and we can make something else.

Little Lexi's baby' quilt

2011-07-03T19:06:00.000-07:00

I am getting better at making quilts, Breckyn's was the first one and it was real easy. I made lots of mistake. This is number 8, Phoenix and Lily didn't get one.

This one is the Princess and Pea Quilt. What little girl isn't a princess at sometime in her life. Notice that there is a pea at the bottom of the all the mattresses. The back of the quilt is pink with little dots.

Too many scraps left over, A bib.

A pair of shoes

A dress and hat. Where is the hat?? Not made yet.

I went to Joanne;s to buy a pattern for a basic dress to make. They were $15. No way!!!! Then one of my friends suggest looking on the Internet for a free one. This what, I found. I found a hat pattern there too.

I had so much fun making them. I think most of the usable scraps are used.

So on to another project and a new color. I have my eyes of a blue print, with green and white.

Jake and Flowers

2011-06-24T22:11:00.000-07:00

Jake and Dad taking a nap. They take 2 naps everyday. Dad said these would never bloom again . I bought them any way. Patiences proved me right.

Aren't these hydrangea pretty.

As you can tell I love plants that have flowers on them.

Awsome trees

2011-06-11T21:24:00.000-07:00

The first year I lived in California, just as school let out in June. All over town trees started to bloom in purple flowers. I was couldn't believe it, beautiful purple trees all over town.

I loved them then and I still do. I can't wait for June to come each year, just to see the purple trees again. I have never got tired of them and take pictures of them every year and then delete the pictures in August. I don't even know what the name of the tree is. Can someone help me out?

Makeover in San Felipe

2011-05-27T21:29:00.000-07:00

I have been wanting to make our cabin look a little better and more put to gether. I finally came up with an idea. Mexican Tourist decore using all the bright colors they use.

Look there is a frame around one window and it is painted yellow, too. Not bad after 27 years. The insides of one window is orange and another one is red. The curtains are made from Mexican blanket just folded over and hung with rings on rods.

The little couch is painted red. I love it.

I sprayed painted the table purple. Ran out of paint so it is just graffiti on the top.

The 5 gallon igloo was replaced.

I made this for the fireplace to sit on.

I am excited about doing it. The 1929 frig is going to be spray painted orange. You will have to come down and see what colors I use for what. What do you think of my idea?

MY SOLAR LED GARDEN

2011-05-02T20:55:00.000-07:00

My sister-in-law, Laurie) got me hooked on solar lights at Christmas time. All Led lights. They use no engery. Cheap to buy, well not too much anyway. Fun to watch. You could line your side walk with them to and help you see out at night.

I now have a night time garden that takes very little tending. None in fact. No watering at least. Just make sure they are in the sun 8 hours every day. They change colors (into red then orange, yellow blue green, purple) , all night long and make a little light, too.

I have lilies, daisies, sun flower, snow flakes and a blinking pink bushs. I also have good bugs, a dragonfly, a butterfly and a swarm of little pink butterflies that blink, no picture.

How is that for a new night time garden and very easy to tend.

PUPPY DOG SITTING

2011-04-23T08:12:00.000-07:00

We dog sat, Doodles last weekend.

Doodles is a 4 pound yorkie. Jake is about 7 pounds. She was so cute and acted just like a princess. She tip toed in the grass. But after playing with Jake, her hair started to look ratty, too. I want another dog now. Dennis said no one is enough.

Jake had fun with her. Both are very spoiled. She ate his food and he ate her food. So we just made three bowls, So they could eat out of the one they wanted to. Boo came over to play one night to play. So we just had one big play night all we needed was Tilly Bean. Old people with babies, oops I mean dogs.

Mexico

2011-04-16T20:05:00.000-07:00

The temple was closed for cleaning, the past two weeks. So to Mexico we went. Melissa, Dave and family came down part of the time. Phoenix pretending to be riding grandpa's quad. The grunion were running. Phoenix was the grand champion catcher .

Swim in the ocean.

Dave taking the kids for a ride.

We found this shell. When we got it up to the house and opened it. This is what we found. A mother octopus and her eggs/babies trying to protect her babies. Look close at the eggs and you can see her eggs with eyes and legs on them.

Up date on birds.

2011-04-16T19:57:00.000-07:00

The blue herron and her babies , one month later. As I got closer in order to get a better picture, I could hear her telling the babies to duck down. And that they did. I think these babies are almost ready to fly off. The sea eagle eating a fish right a sunset.

The same sea eagle at sun rise.

Asthma Season

2011-04-01T09:58:00.000-07:00

That is right, it is asthma season in the Taylor household. Dad can't wait to leave town.

Because we have had so much rain this year, California is in bloom. California poppies are all along the roads. So pretty. Anza is also pretty with mega wild flowers.

There are still enough orange trees left that when you go outside you can smell the orange blooms.

Lupine are still one of my favorite wild flowers. The field next to our house is filled with them.

In my flower garden. I don't know its name.

Spring Vacation in Fruita, Co.

2011-03-25T21:39:00.000-07:00

We spent last week, visiting Catherine in Fruita, during her spring break. They have just bought this piece of property. It is all the way out on road 16 next to the Book Cliffs. They have plans to build them a home there. It reminded me of my childhood in Moroni lots of sage brush. Catherine planting wild flowers in hope they will come up this spring.

A view from the highest spot on their property. Remember it was cold, rainy and snowy all last week. This is the best picture got of any view.

They are close to tons of mountain bike trails. We didn't know these two bikers. We just watched them climb this hill. Then down it and up the next hill. Fruita is a fun place to go on vacation.

ORCHIDS

2011-03-14T06:38:00.000-07:00

This is for you Catherine.

Dad has figured out how to make Orchids bloom again. No more buying a new one when you want another flower.

All of these are new blooms. We have buds on four other ones. Now we just wait to see what color the next bloom will be.

Now will he be able to make them bloom again.

Happy Birthday Grandma

2011-03-07T22:42:00.000-08:00

I had a birthday this weekend. Melissa and family came sunday morning while I was at church. They had a suprize party planned for me. When I got home, after church everything was ready. ( Suprize, Happy Birthday ) Lunch was on the stove and yummy. Fajitas, rice and an elegant fruit salad made by Willow and Poppy. They knew grandma loves fruit, so they found some fruit and cut it up. Sorry no picture. The meal was wonderful. Can you figure out my age by the candles? The kids had decorated the dining room with balloons and pink streamer. Sorry no pictures.

They even had a birthday cake for me and helped me blow out the candles. Grandma shares real well.

Just a little mixed up.

Just too much partying

It was great.

Thanks Melissa, Willow, Poppy, Phoenix and Lily.

Part II

2011-03-07T22:31:00.000-08:00

I recieved a wonderful book from Snapfish of Thursday. It has pictures of Tim's family in it.
Aleca knows I always love pictures of my grandkids.

I love it. Thanks a million Wisconsin's Taylors.

Aquarium of the Pacfic part 2

2011-03-02T20:54:00.000-08:00

The Lorikeets Forest is always fun.

First you buy the little cups of nectar to feed the Lorikeets. The birds seem to know if you have some nectar or not. They are real friendly until your cup is empty and then they are gone.

Lily has decided what she wants Grandpa to buy for her at the gift shop. Do you think he is that big of push over?

Lily turned three.

Grand kids are wonderful. I just wish they all lived close by, so I could enjoy all of them more.

Aquarium of the Pacific

2011-02-28T20:33:00.000-08:00

Last week Melissa and family joined us on a trip to Long Beach and visited the Aquarium of the Pacfic. Melissa and kids touching the sharks and sting rays.

Willow and Poppy just watching the fish.

Grandpa's favorite.

Jelly fish

We had a wonder time and everyone really enjoyed theirselves. A must next time you are in California.

Blue Herons and other birds

2011-02-16T20:03:00.000-08:00

We were in Mexico this past week.

These tall trees are real close to our cabin.

The Blue Herons are just starting to nest in them.

They seems to like them and return every year. By the end of March there will be about 40 birds nesting on these poor trees.

A blue heron is a large bird. Its wing span is about 5-6 feet. He weighs about 5-8 pounds. Stands about 3 feet tall. He eats mainly fish.

Their nests are made of mainly sticks.

What beautiful birds.

Some other birds we found on the beach for Jakey to chase.

Excitment in our front yard

2011-02-04T21:04:00.000-08:00

We had Santa Ana Winds Wednesday. This tree fell on the power lines just across the street from our house. Yes, one of the lines fell down and laying on my orange tree and fence and then all the way across the street. This line was live, so was my fence. All the lines going into Butteroff's house were riped out. We only had enough electric to run a light in our house.

After calling Edison with no luck, 2 of my neighbors and myself decided to called 911. We knew the fire department or the police would have to come.

We were worried about the live wire lying across the street and some dumb kid touching it. The fire department did come. When they called Edison for us they listened. Edison said they would be there in 15 minutes. but it took them 45 minutes to make it. The fire department couldn't leave until Edison arrived. So there we all stood in the road waiting for Edison. Watching the green grass smoke trying to burn.

All Edison did was turn off the power and cut the wire that was laying across the road. Then left. Now what. Now, we don't have any electric.

They did returned about 8:00 that night. Dennis had went to bed no reason to stay up in the dark. Candles don't make that much light.

Jake and I watched them work outside. We were inside our living room wrapped in a blanket. About 11:30 we gave up and went to bed. We were back up at 5:30 because the house was cold. Of course this was the coldest night of the year, 32 degrees. Then at 6:15 the lights came on. Yea we will have heat too.

Our heros, who worked all through the night so we could have lights. Notice the sky is pink , the sun is just coming up.

The wire that was laying across our street.

Because the wire was live. It was burning the grass even the green grass was smoking and burning.

We love our lights and heat.

Ha Haaaaa

2011-02-01T14:07:00.000-08:00

While the rest of the country is digging out from winter ice and snow. Having snow days and etc.

I am outside taking pictures of my daffodils. They are blooming early this year.
I guess that is why some people like to live in Southern California.

Are We Cold

2011-01-30T14:36:00.000-08:00

I think that my sweet daughter-in-law who was here for Christmas from Wisconsin, thinks we are freezing. They were the ones with out sweaters and shoes and in flip flops.

For Christmas Present. I got fleece sheets they are wonderful. Grandpa got a blanket he dearly loves. Great Grandma Taylor got one too, she uses hers everyday. She send new blankie to Willow, Poppy and Phoenix.

What can I say. We love them. Now we aren't freezing any more. If you have never tried a fleece sheet do and you will love it.

Lily found a Snake

2011-01-17T18:41:00.000-08:00

Lily found a snake, today. She brought this 12 foot snake (branch/tree) in my house to show us. I let her. Why would a Grandma allow this. I don't know.

A tender love and kiss.

Poor Mr. Snake had to sleep outside, too and without a blanketie.

Today Mr Snake is in the wood pile where he belongs.

Explain to me why Grandma allowed this in the first place.

NEW YEAR GOALS for 2011

2011-01-09T18:29:00.000-08:00

My New Year Goals.

I never make goals because I never keep them, So why make them, and feel like a looser. As I sat and listened to my good friend Sueann make her goals for the year. When we were in Mexico after Christmas. They were goals that I could be keep. I have been thinking about them for a couple of weeks. So I decided I could make similar goals that I could really keep.

Here they are::.

1. She was going to read 12 books but I am only going to read 6 books (any kind). I just finished the Graceling by Kristin Cashore, I loved it, Now I want to read the companion book FIRE.

2. I am going to make 3 quilts. I have already made one, only two to go. Laura Allen got the first one, a baby quilt for her little guy. It was a Winne the poop rag quilt. I am going to make another baby quilt for Benny and Christina baby. It is due the end of June. So that will be two down and one to go. I can do that.

3. I am going to make 5 pieces of lace. I have a lady bug started just finish it and I will have one finished.
Then if I do more, I have really out did myself.

See it will be easy, and then I can be a winner. Wish me luck.

Christmas 2010

2010-12-27T21:09:00.000-08:00

My little tree in the bathroom with just butterflies on it. The Wisconsin Taylors came out this year. They wanted to trade the Wisconsin's cold snowy weather for sunny California where it never snows or rains and it rained and rained and rained. But it was warmed here. They loved it anyway.

The Snow's kids and Taylor,s kids making funny faces. Only one grandchild missing little Logan
Lily Snow, Zoey Taylor, Rugby Taylor, Emerson Taylor, Phoenix Snow, Willow Snow, Breckyn Taylor and Poppy Snow. We are very proud of all of them.

Meal time

We had a Taylor -Snow sleep over one night. What fun
Grandma gave everyone a Pillow Pet for a Christmas present.

The Pillow Pets all dressed up in the dress-up clothes.

We had a ball and loved every minute of it. Can we do it next year too.

SHARING IN ITS TRUE FORM

2010-12-12T11:16:00.000-08:00

Cory, Tammi and girls came over: before they moving to Virgina the middle of this month. They will be going by way of Texas to have Christmas with Mike and Shanes' families. Steven and Laurie will be in Texas, too.

This is true sharing

Lily and Katie, (Cory's youngest) taking turns giving Jakie a lick of their ice cream.

All the Taylor and Snow kids: Willow, Ashley, Phoenix, and Poppy on the back row. Katie and Lily in front.

Aren't they cute???

A GRANDPA'S LOVE

2010-11-22T18:53:00.000-08:00

There is no other reason except LOVE:

that Grandpa would let anyone comb his bald head.
Don't you love the hairdo Lily made.

Pomegranate Jelly 101

2010-11-11T16:36:00.000-08:00

Find a pomegranate bush. Pick some pomegranates about 6-8. The hardest part is getting all the berry/seeds out of each pomegrante and juicing them. Fingers and hands will turn be purple.

I use Sure Jell to make the jelly.

I have some extra for Christmas presents..

Yummy .

I love it on toast with peanut butter.

FREEWAY LACE DAYS

2010-11-06T21:01:00.000-07:00

I went to Freeway Lace Days, today. Freeway Lace is one of the lace Guilds that I belong too. I am also a member the Cross Scitchers. Every Wedensday afternoon we meet and make lace at the museum in Redlands. We are part of their living history display. (which Dennis thinks is funny)

It was a ball to be there with all these people that love one of things that I love to do most. I took a class in needle lace, not impressed. Bobbin lace and tatting are still my favorites. Lace makers come in all ages and sexes, but they are still very willing to help the beginners. Nicest people in the world according to me.

We had only one vender there to sell things. Boy, were they busy, the whole family to help wait on people. They didn't even check for our ID, what a joy to have people trust us.

I love to make butterflies so I took these to add to the lace display of the Cross scitchers.

Supplies that I bought. This is the best place to buy thread for the next year. You can never have too much thread like the quilters and their material.

I always get me a few more handpainted bobbins. It is funner to work with pretty bobbins. The cute little hats are magnets to hold pins.
.

THE WITCH IS IN

2010-10-31T21:12:00.000-07:00

THE WITCH IS IN.....

and the witch made little Jake wear his Halloween costume. Doesn't he look all excited about wearing it.

He only had to wear it to help give out treats. There wasn't many trick and treaters, but that is normal because we don't have sidewalks or street lights. Just the local kids comes

Our ward Trunk and Treat was Friday night. We had the Snow kids because of Melissa and Dave's adult party. They had a ball and got to spend the night. No makeup with their costumes because Grandma doesn't do makeup. They were cute any way. Dennis and I are on the activity committee. So I had to make about 200 hundred mummie dogs to go with the chilli. I should of made 500 we ran out in the first 5 minutes. Remember for next year.

But at 3:50am Saturday day morning. Lily and Jake came to wake me up. Lily needed a Air Head piece of candy opened. Who knows how long they had been up. (Grandma sleeping through it all) roaming around the house. There was a trick or treat bag in Lily's bed and wrapers all over. Lily and Jake was sent back to bed, with no candy and Grandma tried to get a little more sleep. No wonder Lily was a bear all day long.

All in all we had a wonderful Halloween. Now on to Thanksgiving. No we need to vote first.

Doll Quilt II

2010-10-20T21:32:00.000-07:00

I have just finished my second little doll quilt. I was going to make stars, but the pin wheels were easier. Maybe next time I will make stars.

Just right for a little doll or a runner on my table.

SIT SIT

2010-10-08T19:51:00.000-07:00

Our little yorkie is learning challenged and hyper.
He is now 1 1/2 years old and he has just learned to SIT.

Tim and Aleca gave us a hint to teach him. Use a treat that he likes. Tim said he should do anything if he likes the treat. Jakey is a very picky eater. Most doggy treats he won't even eat. So why would he do a trick for something he didn't want. Dogs will do any thing if they really want the treat. (daw). So we started using smokie links. Sometimes he even wanted to lick it first to see if it was worth SITTING for. If it was something he wanted. He would sit fast and stay there for another treat. Picky little guy or a very smart little guy.
Now he will SIT, if there is a good treat for him.
He still needs to learn to SIT without a treat, but he is learning.
Next we are going to try a teach him STAY.

He may be learning challenged and hyper, but he is sweet all the time.

A new Couch at the Taylors'

2010-10-01T21:02:00.000-07:00

This is our old couch. We thought it would last longer than it did. After all, it was leather and it was only about 6 years old and was hardy used while we were in Chile. The leather was just falling apart.

DO YOU THINK WE NEEDED A NEW ONE? A BIRDS EYE VIEW OF THE BIGGEST HOLE. The light brown are patches to try to stop the holes from enlarging. They didn't work.

The new couch came this week. What do you think of it.

Dad is enjoying it while he watches TV.

Now I need a cute colorful chair to go with it.

OUR NEW DARLING LITTLE DOGGY

2010-09-25T21:05:00.000-07:00

She is named Lily Catherine S_____ Snow.
She is much smarted than Jake. She loves to sharing his bed with him. Chewing on and sharing the dog toys with Jakie. She shares better than Jake.

Enough said about her. Isn't she cute.

part II

2010-09-25T19:35:00.000-07:00

She eats like a dog too. She even fits into this crate. No pictures, remember he is only 6-7 pounds.

We love both of them.

Wisconsin

2010-09-15T18:32:00.000-07:00

We just got back from Wisconsin visiting Tim and family. They called a week ago and wanted us to come. So off we went. We ate out and just had a wonderful time enjoying the kids.
Rugby eating one of the many ice cream cones we had. Knowing we were leaving the next morning. He came up with a great idea so we could stay. He told his mom we could stay and she could just go out and buy us some more clothes to wear. How easy the problem was solved. This really touched me that he really wanted us to stay. Emerson enjoying his ice cream.

The girls the night before we left.

Scout the newest member of their family. What a cute lovable little puppy he was.

I never remember to take pictures. But I did get a few.

The Sewing Room

2010-09-10T08:45:00.000-07:00

I have taken over the downstairs living room and turn it into my sewing room.
Since it is a sewing room. I decided to decorate it with things that are handmade.
First is this tie dye and wax picture from Kenya, Africa. My sister brought it home from Kenya for me. I don't know what it is called. a closer up Just look at the work that was put into it. The fifth bird from the left they forgot to put the black over the orange. Little mistakes like that just make it more special to me. Machines don't make mistakes.

From Chile

Peru. All the little figures are hand made and sewn on to the background. tons of handwork.

One of my bobbin lace pieces.

Come and visit me and you can see the rest of the stuff.

Poor fig tree

2010-09-02T14:25:00.000-07:00

Our fig tree was sick and needed to come down.

It was a beautiful shade tree with a swing.

The grandkids will miss the swing.

I'll miss the figs and shade.

chop chop

one hour later.

This is all that is left of it.

Thanks fig tree for giving us many happy hours.
We love you and will miss you.

CHILE SENIOR MISSIONAIES PART i

2010-08-23T15:47:00.000-07:00

We went to Utah to a reunion of the Senior missionaries we served with in Chile. As my daughter often said (A friend made in Chile is a life time Friend).
We came from all over just to see each other. It was so neat to see them and hear what everyone is doing now. The evening was just too short. This is just a few of the sisters.
The tall one in pink is on her way to China to teach English. I could go on and on with stories of the good each couple is doing or has done. They were the best of best. I feel honored to know them. We stayed over night in three cabins, This is the Snows, no picture of the Austins' and then ate dinner at Dennis's brother Tims. All very different but special at the same time. I have no idea which I liked best.

I took pictures of lots of wild flowers. I love flowers wild or tame.

We ate good. Way too good.

I think I gained back all the weigh I had just lost. When someone else cooks it, it is always better.

Chille Senior missionaries part II

2010-08-23T15:30:00.000-07:00

We played cards, Carol and I lost most of the time. Adele and I won big on the last hand we played. All in all we had a good time. We saw beautiful mountians, all over Utah. I miss the Utah Mountians.

The fearless fishermen. No one caught anything, so nothing to clean.

We saw lost of wild life.

We were on the Snow's quads. I was behind Dennis. Stop there is a moose , Dennis answered it is just a statue. I answered him IT IS MOVING. Sure enough it was alive and could care less we were there.

We had a wonderful time. I came home tired and glad to sleep in my bed.

Bobbin Lace and etc.

2010-08-05T16:09:00.000-07:00

Here is a couple of butterflies that I recently finished. Fun Fun Fun

The grandkids were over last week. Eating red velvet mini cupcakes.
Of course grandma had to have something good to eat.

Lily got into my makeup, again I hope there is some lip stick left.

Jakie napping with Dennis.

I caught Lily with her face in Jakie's bowl eating dog food. But moved too fast for a picture and would not pose for me to take a picture. Then she put one of Jake's toy in her mouth and ran around in circles teasing him with it. But no picture of that either. But he just loves her anyway.

Saga of plum jam.

2010-07-26T16:01:00.000-07:00

Melissa brought me over two big bowls of plums, she had been given a bucket full. She was just sharing.
So I set out to make plum jam. How could we eat that many and I can't stand to see waste. I only used about half of them. I cook and strained them, so there was no seeds or skins.
Off to the store and bought some Sure Jell and followed that recipe.
6 cups of plum juice/pulp and 8 cups of sugar for one batch.
No wonder it is good.

Boiling

Filling the jars.

Viola plum jam.

I only made two batches and we have a two year supply for both the Snow's and us. I used the rest of the juice/pulp and made a syrup/sauce which is really good. Dennis ate lots of it on his pancakes the next morning. Then more on toast for lunch. So it must of been good.

And I still have plums left over to eat.

It tastes just as good as my sisters. SUPER

Veggies Anyone

2010-07-19T13:32:00.000-07:00

My garden is in full swing and I am enjoying it. How many different ways can you fix zucchinis???? I like zucchinis any way, but I think Dennis is getting tired of them.
Only green tomatoes as of yet. I have lots of green ones. Anyone for fried green tomatoes??
My beet greens are great. I have only little beets they may not last until they get bigger.
My green peppers turned out to be hot peppers. Not what I planned for.
My cumcubers are producing faster than the zucchinis can you believe that. So I make pickles. I found a package mix, for kosher dill pickles. I gave it a try. I added some dill that I was growing in my garden.

All I can say is YUMMMMMM like they do on the FOOD NETWORK and

you still don't know if it was really good or not. They really turned out to be good.

Willow's Birthday

2010-07-11T18:25:00.000-07:00

Phoenix and Willow came over this morning. Phoenix needed to go to the dentist.
So we took Willow out to birthday breakfast at Denny's. Grandpa and I had a mini birthday party for her. I baked her a little cake last night and we made homemade mint and chip ice cream. Then tonight she will get to have her family birthday party without grandma and grandpa Taylor. This way she got to have two parties. What a lucky little girl. She opened my present for her. I had gotten her a little loom that weaves hotpads. She had almost three made before she went home.
Jake gave her a shirt that had a little yorkie on the front.

Happy ninth birthday Willow.

Catherine and Daisy

2010-07-03T16:31:00.000-07:00

Catherine and Daisy came from Colorado for a visit. We love it.

Jakie thought Daisy was cool and followed her around for a week and half. I think Daisy is Jake's hero. They left of Thursday and Jake was so tired he slept all day.

Daisy is the smartest dog I know. She does all kinds of tricks.

I took lots of cool pictures of Daisy and Jake but this is the only one of Daisy that turned out. Spoiled little Jake.
We didn't do anything special with them just visited and ate out at all the fun places she wanted to. She set me up a facebook account and taught me how to play Frontier Ville. Not good now all I want to do is tend my land.

We loved having her and hopes she brings Greg next time.

Doll Quilt.

2010-06-27T21:17:00.000-07:00

The first produce from my garden. I have all kinds growing in it now. A little doll quilt I have just finished.

The Princess and the Pea.

Remember the fairy tale of the Princess and the pea.

It was fun and easy to make.

EL CERRITO SPORT'S PARK

2010-06-14T16:02:00.000-07:00

This is for all of you out there, that check my blog and lived here in El Cerrito at one time or other.

Who would ever believe that El Cerrito is the home of the nicest park in the whole Corona area. Not only do we have the Crossing Shopping mall but now a sports park. We are really coming up in the world.

It is located on El Cerrito Road between the school and the freeway, on that vacant field. It is also in down town El Cerrito, Melissa. Drinking fountains that still work.

Two basketball courts. See the new remodeled El Cerrito school in the background.

Three baseball diamonds with dugouts and lights. Two soccer fields.

Two tennis courts with lights. No Dad has not tried them out yet.

With lots of parking places.

The county and the city went together and build it. It is beautiful.

Sidewalks to walk on. Maybe I will have to take Jakie down there and walk some morning.

The grass is still new and the trees are little.

I wish I had a picture of what this area looked like 33+ years ago, when we moved out here. Timmy 2 at the time told me discussed, ( no house, dirt). We had dirt roads or mud when it rained. There was nothing around. We had to travel through the orange groves to get into town or even a store, let alone a fast food place. Eagle Glen (white sands) is where the kids went and brought home all kinds or little creatures for me to take care. Now, 33 years later look what is here .

El Cerrito Park II

2010-06-14T15:37:00.000-07:00

This is a beautiful group picnic area. Shade, lots of tables, serving tables, B-BQ, spit to roast a (pig) on. And it is large enough for a whole ward party. Two great playground areas
We took Phoenix and Lily down Friday night when they came for a sleep over.

Even Lily could make it up this wall. They had a ball.

They ran and played for 45 minutes and didn't want to leave when grandma and grandpa got tired. They were so tired that they went right to sleep, when I put them to bed.

Phoenix wanted to go back the next day. It is a place that we will return to. Next time we will take a picnic lunch and let the kids run and I can sit in the shade and eat.

Who would believe that this park is in El Cerrito. El Cerrito is the place to live now.

CACTUI

2010-06-09T15:58:00.000-07:00

Not all cactui have pretty flowers.

The only thing pretty about these flowers is the color. Now this is a normal cactus bloom.

What do you think?

Grandma's Garden II

2010-06-05T21:22:00.000-07:00

My garden when I first planted it. Almost three weeks later.
I am doing something right.

San Felipe, Memorial Day 2010

2010-06-02T07:41:00.000-07:00

We just returned home from San Felipe. Melissa and kids went with us. Uncle Terry and Betty spend a few days with us, too.

The weather was in the low 80's and no wind. The tide was good. The kids played 3 days on the beach and in the water.

Willow and Poppy diving in the Sea of Cortez.

Besides swimming ,we dug clams and ate them. Found lots of creatures in the tide pools. Gathered lots of shells and played in the sand. I think every one got buried at least once.

A mermaid we found on the beach

In between swimming, eating, sleeping and riding on grandpa's new quad, this is what the 4 rug rats did. Even Lily was in on the action

All in all we had a good time. Who wants to join us next year?

TRIP to see Paula and sister King

2010-05-23T21:40:00.000-07:00

We just got back from a trip to Sacramento. Paula Ceballo was a voluntary for the employment center in Chile, while we were also in Chile. She is here in the states on a great, scholarship at UC Davis. We wanted to see her before she returns home to Chile. So we made a trip up to see her. We got all caught up on the news and everyone we knew and she knew in Chile. And the earthquake. She still is a sweet as ever.

We also stopped in Atwater and saw Sister King. It was wonderful to see her and meet her boys that she talked so fondly about. We did a little site seeing as well. The state captial in Sacramento. Sacramento was green and pretty not the dry California I know. It is hard to believe it is the same state as dry Southern California. But if it rains things turn green.

The temple in Fresco. The grounds were also pretty.

The Sacramento temple. It is the same building as our Redland temple. The Sacramento Temple grounds are huge, green, fun and more than just beautiful. A place you would want to take your family and just sit and enjoy the sweet spirit of the temple grounds. You can see the temple from the freeway and Folsom Blvd. But finding the road to get up the hill to it is almost impossible, unless you are a local or have been there before. After searching for a hour, we finally asked and then it was easy. I guess lots of people asks and the locals know just where the hidden road is; that takes you to the top of the hill.

We drove through Yosemite on the way back home. The park is beautiful and green, too. Is southern California the only place dry and brown on earth. The day was overcast so my pictures never turned out so great.We are home and back to normal almost. Shopping, washing and etc.needs to be done. It is always nice to be back home.

Grandma's Garden

2010-05-17T19:51:00.000-07:00

How did you get into my blog,Lily? I guess lilies do grow in gardens. Lily, our little sweet heart.

And this Lily even has pony tails. I have always wanted to make a raised garden. Dennis helped me build the frames. And I bought some garden mix to put in them.

I hope I did it right Catherine, I couldn't remember what you told me to put in them. So I just bought something that looked good and said it was for gardens.

I have been working on them for a couple of weeks.I I planted, 4 tomatoes, 2 peppers (two kinds),1 cantalope, and 2 eggplants. Then seeds for radish, (two kinds), summer squash, zucchini, cucumbers, cilantro, and beets . I still have to get my pumpkins planted and Chilean pumpkin (cupio). I have a little space left.

The next day. No seeds have came up yet. But I am waiting. Keep you posted on the growth of it.

two days later not even the radish have came up.

EPHIPHYLIUM

2010-05-15T19:58:00.000-07:00

I think Ephiphylium is the right name and I hope it is spelled right, too.

They are a type of catcus. This year we have pink and salmon flowers blooming. We have had about 10 flowers just two plants. They come in yellow, bright pink, red, white and etc.

Aren't they, one of the prettiest flower you have ever seen?

I love the danity color of these last two pictures. Compare the flower size with my hand

They are easy to grow. I just have them in pots on my patio. Nothing special. If you want a start, just let me know and I will give you one.

Ta Da Spring flowers

2010-05-09T22:17:00.000-07:00

I love April in California. It is warm but not hot yet. All my flowers are in bloom. By May most of them are gone. Even the weeds bloom. Some of the flowers have already bloomed. Next year I will have iris, too.

My roses and sweet peas smell so good.

More pictures of our trip and Logan

2010-05-05T12:02:00.000-07:00

Goats tring to get the milk that Logan and Christina had to fed them. Look what we found in the mall for Logan to play in while we shopped.

More pictures of St. Louis

2010-05-05T11:40:00.001-07:00

It is flat and green in Missouri. Nothing is dry and brown like California. It is Beautiful I love columbia flowers. They remind me of my childhood in Utah.

Ulysses Grant's Home.

He was in front of the Art Museum. He's St. Louis, the king of France, which the city was named after.

I took this picture for Catherine. An japanese bowl that was also in the Art Museum. I think it would be fun to take a salad in it for a ward party.

St Louis is a real fun place to visit. So many things to see and visit.

Little Logan Taylor

2010-05-03T18:37:00.000-07:00

We just got home from spending 6 days in St. Louis, Missouri, visiting Ben, Christina, and Logan. Isn't he a handsome young man?
Grandpa and Logan just hanging out.

Logan and Ben feeding the goats at Grant's Farm.

Riding the Merry-go-Round. It is still just a merry-go-round to me. He wasn't too sure of it, at first.

Just walking

We visited the Ulysses Grant's Farm. It was neat just watching Logan try out new things. This place is a must to go to, next time you are visiting St Louis.

this and that

2010-04-24T21:15:00.000-07:00

Our friends, the Nunez family, from Chile left yesterday. The house seems quiet without them. Jakey misses them too. We took them to the Getty Center on Thursday. We loved it. I want to go back and see the rest of it. When I was a little girl and saw general authority come and go after visiting our little stake in Utah. I always wanted to have someone important stay at my home or even eat dinner with us. It never happened they always stay at our stake president's home or else where. His daughter never thought it was anything special and was I ever jealous of her. I just wanted to talk to one and feel the spirit they brought.. They were my heros. I never ever even got to talk to one. As I grew up I knew it would never happen.

Well it has happened.

Brother Nunez was made an area seventy. He stayed at our home for 10 days. I even got to cook meals for a seventy. Guess what!!!! the Nunez family was just like the rest of us.

After all these years, a dream has come true, (an general authority stayed in my home and ate dinner with ME.)

Saturaday we drove to Hemet to watch Willow play softball. She did great.

Both times she got up to bat, she hit the ball and made it to first. She even caught the ball when it came to her in the field. Way to go Willow.

In two weeks we get to make another trip to Hemet to watch Phoenix and Poppy play soccer.

Chillean friends

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

We have some friends visiting us from Chile. He works for the church and is over the employment center. So he was our boss in Chile.
They are here in the states because he was set apart as an area seventy at general conferance. His wife and 3 children came with him. The other couple are the Browns also from this area. They were with us in Chile too. We all had a B-BQ together. Sight seeing at the LA temple. They went to Disneyland one day and are at sea world today. They leave on Friday to return to Chile.

The gardens at the Temple were beautiful. Huntington Library, beach, San Deigo Zoo, Getty's, Reland's temple and shopping is on our list for next week.

FLAT STANLEY SHOWS UP IN CALIFORNIA

2010-04-11T21:30:00.000-07:00

About two weeks ago Flat Stanley slipped out of my mail box. (Flat Stanley is a character in a children's book Because he is flat he can slip under doors and etc. Thus he has many adventures.) He came from my grandson's first grade class in Wisconsin.) He came here for an adventure in California and spend a week with grandma G and grandpa. He got to eat all the easter candy he wanted.

He spent some days helping Grandma G. When we went to the gorcey store he got to pick out what ever he wanted to eat.

He had to work too. Here he is helping Rugby's cousins Poppy and Phoenix pick up leaves.

This picture is suppose to be Flat Stanley helping me strawberry jelly or getting gas or just doing normal things.

We had fun taking him around and taking pictures of him.

part 2 FLAT STANLEY

2010-04-11T21:04:00.002-07:00

While in California he found oranges, lemons, limes and gratefruit growing on trees and got to eat them right off the trees. Catcus grow in Grandma G back yard, don't get close to them they have stickers all over them.

Palm tree grow all over.

The Pacfic Ocean is next to California

We found shells on the beach.

After a week and half he slipped back in the mail box and was off to a new adventure.

We enjoyed his stay. He was very well behaved, followed all the rules and always clean his plate. Come again and visit us.

2010-04-11T21:04:00.001-07:00

Snow in Utah

2010-04-08T21:36:00.000-07:00

We woke up in Cedar City to 6-8 inches of snow, March 28th. We had snow every place we visited. I loved it. Jake didn't know if he liked it or not. We went with Howard and Carol Snow up to their cabin above Oakley Utah. It snowed and snowed. I loved it. It reminded me of Moroni when I was little.

Howard and Dennis went out snowmobling. Fun fun.

Those steaks were wonderful. I have never tasted better. And it was snowing, too.

whoops I clicked on the wrong picture.

I didn't take any other pictures. I don't know why.

We went to see Catherine, Ione, my sister, ex roommater Barbara in Gunnison, Chile missionaries Austin in La vagas, Wilsons in St George. We stopped at other friends and family members home that just weren't home. We had a wonderful trip. Got home tired and glad we got to see so many friends and family.

Don't you just love the snow and snow pictures.

I am back.

2010-04-06T17:36:00.000-07:00

My computer has been sick. virus. We have been on vacation. I will post pictures tomorrow.

Just 7 decades.

2010-03-08T09:14:00.000-08:00

Now that I am old officially. I can do what I want to. RIGHT I can have ice cream for breakfast or whenever I want.
I can eat anything I want to.

I can wear any pair of socks I want.

I don't have to worry if my colors match any more.

I'll wear only what I want to because it is comfortable.

I can stuff my kleenex in my sleeve if I don't have a pocket.

I can wear any shoes I want . I onlly wear ones that are comfortable.

I can wear either my cros or berkinstocks to church.

If I get cold it is okay to wear a sweater that doesn't even match.

I can do what ever I want all day long. Read, sew, make lace, garden, or what ever.

I don't have to worry about, if I am in the latest style.

I can spend my money how I want.

When I drive slow; it is because I am old.

I can sleep in church, because all old people do.

If I don't hear the first time, please repeat it to me.

Help me find my glasses I can't read the small print.

It is okay to have loose skin that wiggles.

Now that I am old just accept me the way I am.

I am happy and have lots to give.

I have lived a long time and a lots of knowledge stored in my tired old brain.

from the older generation

THE 7TH DECADE

2010-03-08T08:58:00.000-08:00

I am now 7 decades old. I have waited for this birthday a long time. I am now officially old. I had a birthday party with my grandkids.
We played pin the nose on Grandma and had a tresure hunt.
That's all the games I had so we just visited and enjoyed each other.

I made dinner for us. We had ribs and spaghetti. Some of my favorite foods.
Then ice cream for dessert with a candle for everyones.
I had a fun birthday.
We went out to dinner the night before, with some of our senior friends.
It is great getting old. Thanks everyone for making my 70th birthday special.

Mexico

2010-03-03T11:28:00.000-08:00

We just got back from Mexico with some of our good friends. Friends that we made as missionaries in Chile. Friends you make in Chile are friends forever. We are taking turns just visiting each others cabins. Our cabin is in San Felipe, Mexico right on the beach. It is just a little beach cabin. The rest are all in the mountains. So we have started with the littlest one first.

I made sure that they all got up to see the sun come up at least one morning. Victor and Adele... Checking out the beach.

Eating highly important past time at our cabin. Food is one of the most important things that we do there. And we did eat well. Tons of goodie to snack on. So we all just ate and ate.

Howard and Carol made the best tri tip ever. I ate and ate. It was so good.

Adele made the best pasta dish. I have been shoping and bought some cooking wine and bow tie pasta to see if I can copy it.

Dennis did excellent, too. He bought us all fish tacos in town from Maria. You can't go to Mexico without at least trying a fish taco. Maria's are excellent and safe to eat.

I had Carol help me dig clams for all to eat.

We played cards for three straight days. I had so much fun getting to gether with these couples and hearing about their famlies again...

Like I said before: Friends made in Chile are friends for ever.

Please remember our friends and people of Chile and pray for them after this horrible earthquake.

JEALOUS TAKES OVER

2010-02-21T21:00:00.000-08:00

JEALOUS TAKES OVER.

Willow and Poppy was jealous that Phoenix got another sleepover at Grandma's house a few weeks ago. Willow doesn't seem to remember all the sleepovers she use to have at Grandma's house before she was in school. This was a first for Poppy.

No school this week so they got to spend two nights at Grandma's.
Just chilling out in front of the TV. Grandpa let them watch what ever they wanted.

Poppy swinging on a rope from one of Grandma's trees. Too scarey for me.

Willow loves to climb my trees. She takes after her Grandma I loved to climb trees, too, when I was her age.

Grandma lets them draw with sidewalk chalk all over her patio. I can wash it off after they leave. This time the rain did the job. They even had it on their faces.

We had a ball, we ate only food they liked, we made cookies, went shopping, played out side, climbed trees, got dirty, drew pictures, made things with fusion beads, worked for grandma did I say work, sh-sh-sh......... stayed up late one night. we had fun and grandma is even ready for another sleepover. I love my grandkids so much, I wish thoses in Wisconsin and St. Louis, Mo were closer and could come for sleepovers too.

Poppy's special treat

2010-02-21T20:45:00.000-08:00

For Poppy's birthday, Melissa and I took Willow and her, to the American Girl Store in LA. What a special treat it was for them. Poppy got a doll for her birthday present, from her Mom. An outfit from Grandma. Willow had been saving her money to get her a new one, too. They are now saving their money to buy the tree house. We spend way too much money.
The girls had a ball.
Melissa and I had a ball looking at all the things they have for sell there. Bad store for grandmas.

lecaunplugged

2010-02-19T18:46:00.000-08:00

if you love reading or surfing blogs, may I make a suggestion. My daughter-in-law has a specail talent for writing. So just hop over there and enjoy. ( lecaunplugged.blogspot.com )

Valentine's Day

2010-02-13T09:33:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentine's Day

What fun is Valentine's Day, without chocolate.

Here are some of my favorite See's, Dove, Lindor truffles all in the dark chocolate not so sweet centers.

I heard that dark chocolate is good for your heart and cholesterol and that is all it took to get me to buy some of each after all they are healthly.

No futher research was needed for me.

Tim

2010-02-03T21:24:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday Timmy

(34) Has it been that long, since I brought you home from the hospital. You were exciting to watch grow up, not a dull moment. Timmy we love you.

Lily

2010-02-01T21:41:00.000-08:00

Last time the Snow's were here Willow dressed Lily up, in the dress up clothes .

How is that for a pretty little princess carrying a dinosaur or playing with a truck. Lily came over today. She found Grandma's makeup. I guess that someone needs to use it any way.

She is our cute little brown eyed Snow baby.

Every time she comes she has a new way how to say Grandpa (grandpa to mepa to jimpa). But he doesn't care.

Rain rain go away. not really

2010-01-21T12:25:00.000-08:00

It has been raining for three days. Two more to go. I love it. I even make Jake go for walks in it with me. Southern California is not prepared for this much rain. All the drains have trash and etc. in them because they are only used once every 3 or 4 years. Then all the hill sides that were burned last fall are now mud slides. dry river beds are now homes to flash floods. Low spots are flooded. It is a mess here when it rains like this. But I still love it.

We live on a hill and it hasn't burned so we are okay. I have been out and cleared all the drains and made earth banks where needed, too lazy to go fire station and get sand bags. We are high and dry. I just stay home and make soup and watch it rain. I had better enjoy it because it may not rain again this year.

These are pictures of the water running off our yard. side walk in back yard a new river. Yes it is a river for southern California. Most of our rivers are dry year round.
The water is about 1 inch deep running across the back yard.

I love love love it. And we need the rain so bad.

We get rain and the rest of the nation will be getting snow.

Cajon Pass and the Grape vine are both closed because of snow. Remember, we don't even have snow plows here. So just 5-7 inches of snow, plus California driver who have never even driven in the snow is bad news on the freeways. So they just close the roads to save lives.

JAKE, the yorkie

2010-01-04T21:50:00.000-08:00

Jake is 10 months old. Standing on the couch waiting for a dog to go by, so he can bark at it.

Waiting for Dad to throw a toy to run and fetch. He could play this all day long.

The day is over and he is ready for bed.

Enough said. Jake is a very spoiled yorkie.

2010

2009-12-31T16:00:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year God Nyt Ar Feliz ano nuevo bonne anee! happy new year

saga of ZHU-ZHU pets

2009-12-24T13:52:00.001-08:00

If you are like I was, you have no idea what a zhu-zhu pet is. This is one. they are small, 3-5 inches long. They come in different colors. They chatter, scatter, scoot, n'scurry like a real hamster. Also they are the hot item this year. Real cute with their own personality. Just like a live hamster only it doesn't eat or poop. It couldn't be better. this is how this story begins.

Last Wednesday I call Melissa to get an idea on what to get Poppy and Phoenix for Christmas. Much was discussed and we came up with the idea to get Poppy some accessories for her zhu-zhu pet she would be getting. All four of them are getting a zhu-zhu pet for Christmas. No problem. We live close to toys R4 Us, and target.

Thursday morning I take off to find some accessories. Toys r4 us have pets but no accessories, Target and Walmart have neither. I now know what they are and what I am looking for. ( car, ball, slide, fun house or boat will do) A truck is coming into toys r4 us, Friday night so come back at 6 when they open Saturday. I arrive back at toys r4 us at 6;15 Saturday and find out when the truck came in Friday they sold all of them in 30 minutes. I am now on a mission to find an accessory. I check the Internet. Walmart will have them and start selling the 7:00 Monday morning. Monday morning, I check toys r4 us on my way to walmat, they have only pets. I get to Walmart and about 10Th in line. I wait my turn and get the second to last accessory not the one I wanted but it will do. I got the fun house. We are told they will do the same thing both Tuesday and Wednesday morning. Poor Jake won't be getting his morning walk either day. I leave at 6:20 Tues and this time I am 16Th in line all the accessories are gone before I get my turn. Wed morning comes and I am down there at 6:10 and 4 in line. I know I will get to pick one this morning not just take what is left. We wait. (What is wrong with all these crazy old grandma waiting in line for a stupid toy for a grandchild. Most of us were grandmas.) At 6:55 they come out and say there are no accessories just pets. So we all leave and no line is left.

The next step for me is to make some things for the kids anyway. I pull out all the scraps I have. Magical all these ideas start to pop into my head and I start creating. A ruff with some trim sewn on some elastic and we have a dress. Aleca do you recognize the pink stuff it was in my suit case when I got home it is now a hamster dress. Red material with a marker and you have a Super Hamster cape. Each pet will get his own sleeping bag out of scraps of fleece and etc. and best yet I didn't need to spend any money on them..

What fun creating little clothes for a hamster. My head is just popping with ideas. I just need time to create them. Aleca you should be here helping me make hamster clothes. Is this not silly making clothes for a mechanical hamster.

I will get them some accessories in the spring when the accessories make it to the store sheves.

Merry Christmas

2009-12-23T18:46:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas to everyone who surfs my Blog.

I just got back from Target, I was to Stater Brothers earlier today. People were all over and parking spots were hard to find. But at least I got my exerise walking to and from the car. Has the world forgotten the real meaning of Christmas. Is Christmas really just shopping, eating sweets and going here and there, and partying.

I know that I am as bad as everyone else, what is wrong with us. I too get caught up in the excitement and forget why we really celebrate Christmas. I was to 5 stores today getting the last minute things.

Merry Christmas and I hope for just a minute or two we can all remember the real meaning of Christmas.