Dreaming of Spring

Happy Friday Folks~Last night the snow started to fall and it hasn't stopped. The cold front was a "Pineapple Express" from the west and the snow is so wet-like Sierra Sludge. This is what we woke up to today-almost 5" overnight. Hubby got out and shoveled the driveway and sidewalks right away and then I shoveled Hunter a path and patch of lawn(you can see it in the background). It is going to be an inside day for me; hubby went to Pickleball but I think it will be a small group-too much snow on the roads.

While I will be working on packing my sewing room today, my hubby is dreaming of warmer, sunny days in Kauai. We head there this spring to join his Peeps, shown here; they are his best friends from California and we meet them every two years for an intensive time of golf. The guys just play while the girls enjoy the weather and the shops; this year I will be spending time with Val of My Girlz Got Paws blog. I'm so excited to finally meet Val face to face and see the island through her eyes. This will be our 9th trip and we still have so much to discover.

Last night our sil came over and within a few minutes had our new t.v. up and running-so good we have younger family members that understand all the tecky things. Reminds me of my mom when she had to learn computers-it was so hard for her and this was back in the 70's. Wednesday marked the 39th anniversary of her going home to glory; remembering dates like this is a family thing or maybe just Irish. It seems like a lifetime ago, but then I was a different person-still so young and immature. She never got to see me married or my girls, but I know she smiles down on me. I see traits of hers in my brother and myself as well as one of my girls and some of my grands. Just the inflection of certain words comes straight from her brogue-it always makes me laugh.
 I hope you have a warm and wonderful weekend.
Noreen

I can't believe most of the day is gone! This morning Hunter and I walked, before the storm hits. Then I had a haircut and when I got home our oldest and her kiddos were here. When they left, hubby and I headed to the market to stock up in case the storm is really bad. Yesterday we got a new t.v and again realized that we are seniors and so not reckon. Hopefully our sil will be able to help us, otherwise we will get The Geek Squad out here. Now we are just relaxing And I'm hoping to get around to visit all of you.
Have a great evening; for those in the East, please stay safe!
Blessings, Noreen

A Lazy Boy

Happy Wednesday to you! It is beautiful here today, but tomorrow will be another story; a massive storm is headed our way. As many of you know, Hunter was our first Bichon and only the second small dog we've had. We had a Chihuahua mix when we were first married, but other than that our dogs have been medium size. Our first small dog's name was Brandy and she was a really smart dog, but when we got her she was very small and her coloring was liver. The people at the humane society said she might have Weimaraner in her-we were teased continually when she never grew. We were excited that we were getting a hunting dog-only to find out she didn't have any of the breed in her genes. So fast forward to Hunter and as hubby loves to say "he is one spoiled dog". Yes, he sleeps on the bed with us and pretty much does whatever he wants. What makes me laugh though is that he is not a morning dog. Often we will get up and all come downstairs and after he goes outside, he will go back upstairs and go back to bed. I've never known a dog to do this. He loves to sleep in and sometimes won't even get up with us; of course in winter we try to stay in bed as long as possible.

Here he is this morning- awake, but very comfortable while I was blow drying my hair. I know if Lily or Petrol were here, they'd be playing non stop. So maybe it's boredom, I just find it silly.
This little guy has got our hearts! If we didn't have Lily around so much or Petrol, we would definitely have another Bichon.
Hope you have joy and love from an animal in your life.
Noreen & Hunter

Good Morning Friends~Well, we have blue skies and sunshine but it is still 0 on the thermometer and there is still about 3" of snow on the ground.  Another inside type of day.  We are running some errands in the afternoon and then will be enjoying our quiet days.  I continue to pack boxes and it is looking pretty good right now.  Of course, there has been a added incentive to get everything done in advance; our oldest daughter and her family are also moving; they will be a little over 2.5 miles away and will still have lots of space and land for the kiddos. They actually move before we do which is nice that it isn't at the same time.  I'm thinking if I get all my home packed, I can help her-either packing or holding a baby. 
There have been some interesting new t.v. shows on this winter-one is Intelligence. It is a cross between Six Million Dollar Man(I'm dating myself) and a Criminal Minds.  We have found it entertaining and interesting; I'm sure that this is pretty accurate in the spy/intelligence world.
I hope you are staying warm and enjoying your day.
Noreen

Monday Monday and Bare Trees

Good Morning to you! I hope you enjoyed some nice weather, in your neck of the woods, this weekend. Ours was delightful and hubby even wore shorts on Saturday. Now we are back to winter; the storm rolled in last evening with a powerful wind and grey skies(another song). Yesterday, when hubby was golfing he spotted this pair of Bald Eagles. Initially he didn't have our camera but like a good wife, I ran it over to him. By the time he got back to them, the male was circling; previously it had been next to the female. Knowing how I love Eagles, he got these for me. What a fine male eagle this is!

Like any good mate, the female is staying near to the nest.

I loved this silhouette.

Each winter we have lots of Eagles nest near our home, in fact all over our town. Such a powerful and magnificent bird; not to be underestimated though.
 Hope you have a great day and that you get home before you know it.
Stay warm today,
Noreen & Hunter

Happy Friday

Hi ya all~I hope your week has been productive and filled with joy!  Yesterday, hubby and I made our first trip to the thrift store to drop off boxes and bags of goodies that we no longer need.  It really felt good to have the items gone!  Today I am hoping to pack more; the sooner the majority of our home is done, the better I'll feel.  We also stopped at Bed, *ath and Beyond and bought some new pots and pans.  Ours were given to me before we were married; they had a lot of use and one handle was coming off.  Now we have a nice, new set for our nice new gas stove at our new house.  Of course we are using them now. 
Today, I am running to my youngest daughters house this morning-just to spend some time with them, help hold little man if needed and hang out.  She was at the market last night and Pineapples were $1.00 each-so she got me one-yeah! 
This weekend is a pretty relaxed one. 
I hope you have a wonderful day and fun weekend.
Blessings,
Noreen

Outdoor Life

It's Thankful Thursday and today I am so thankful for the beautiful area we live it; the proximity to Rocky Mountain National Park makes it so easy to just run up there for a day, or even just a few hours. On our way up there yesterday, we happened upon these fellows. I will say we didn't see any while snowshoeing, but it made my day to see these in town.

I loved seeing the kid with it's parents.

I couldn't get these guys to turn around; loved looking at their coats.

As you know we have been up there several times in the last couple of weeks and haven't seen any wildlife.  It was so weird not to; yesterday was such a treat.  Well, I can say my body is totally out of shape; it's been months since I've ridden my bike and although I'm walking, I get so winded snowshoeing.  A group of ladies from church are planning to go up for a day; two of the gals are avid snowshoers and after yesterday, I'm not sure I'll join them.  I know the altitude impacts my breathing, but seriously, it is frustrating to me when I am just too tired to continue on.  I'm hoping that our trek next week is easier; it is so beautiful that even if I don't go far, I love to be out in the pristine beauty.
Today, hubby and I have errands to run despite the snow falling.  I think I am going to do my first drop off at the thrift store-at least there will be less boxes of things taking up space. 
I hope your week has been good!  May you find beauty in your life, embrace it.
Blessings,
Noreen

Outdoor Wednesday

Hubby and I are heading to the high places,putting on snow shoes and looking for photos ops.  Lest you think Hunter will have a boring day-our daughter, her five kiddos and Lily will be spending part of the day at our house.  Hunter will be in doggy heaven with Lily; only thing that would make it better is if Petrol were coming too.  Hopefully by this afternoon, I'll have some to post.
Blessings on your day!
Noreen

Tuesday's Thoughts

Good Morning Friends!  I am happy to say that I am still keeping the cold/sinus thing at bay; there is so much going around and I'm hoping it doesn't develop into a full blown cold or infection.  I can never tell whether it is a cold or just allergies; I've had allergies all of my life and what seems like a cold starting, is often just an allergic reaction.  So when I get a sore throat, I take an antihistamine and decongestant; this seems to work for me.  If I had a fever I would have an indicator of a cold but I usually don't get them.  I hope you are staying healthy!
Thank you all for your input yesterday about the chairs vs recliners.  I have decided that after we move in, I will begin looking for two recliners; possibly at Estate sales or discount furniture outlets.

My daughter found this chair at a big box store and I love it.  I think it would look perfect with the leather and it does look comfy doesn't it! 
Yesterday afternoon I joined my friends for our craft group; I had chosen not to do the craft but instead took a doll dress to put snaps on(for my granddaughter).  The group decided that with such busy schedules this spring, we won't be meeting.  I loved the time together but seriously do not need to add more "pretties" to my collection.  I think it was decided that we would all just get together for coffee occasionally.  One nice thing is that two of these gals live in the development we are moving to, so I will be able to see them on a more regular basis. After I left there, I went to our youngest daughter's home and they were just leaving on a walk-so I joined them.
Today I will be taking Hunter out on a walk and then continue to purge and pack; the basement is getting organized, which is a huge bonus and once I run to the thrift store with donations we will have even more room for boxes. 
I haven't said how happy we Coloradans are about the Broncos going to Super Bowl. It would have been wonderful if they were playing against the 49er's but it should be an exciting game. 
I hope you are enjoying nice weather and counting your blessings.  Life is good!
Hugs, Noreen

As many of you know, hubby and I bought a new home and will be moving in late spring. We also choose to buy some of the seller's furniture because they are down sizing; these two couches and ottomans will be staying in the family room. On Friday, hubby and I drove down to Costco to rejoin; they will be opening a new Costco near us next Oct. and I am so excited to have one close.  Being 45 min away has just made it difficult to belong, until now. On the way home from Costco, we stopped at American Furniture to see what type of chairs we could get to add to this seating arrangement. It may look perfect as it is, but when we have all 11 grands over there just isn't enough seating. Hubby and I love recliners, so we are tossing around the idea of repositioning the large couch to opposite the the loveseat and putting something else in between them.

My question for you is~ would you choose recliners or a loveseat that reclines? I am also hoping to find a fabric on some sort; most of the furniture in the house is leather. We love leather because we are so very hard on furniture and it seems to last a lot longer than some fabrics, especially with dogs. However, I would love to add in something else.The ottomans are from Eddie Bauer and a rich jewel toned fabric.  I am thinking maybe a tan or brown corduroy or microfiber.  I would love a heavy broadcloth too; as long as it could be washed.  So many of you have wonderful decorating ideas, so if you would share your thoughts or inspirations, I would appreciate it.
We had a great weekend; spending time with family and watching football.  I worked on two last doll dresses and today will be going to our monthly craft group. I've decided not to participate making a Valentine's Day wreath, I just have too many things already and don't want to add more.
Joy to you!
Noreen

Happy Friday Friends, Well wouldn't you know it-last night our friends arrived and we got so caught up talking and finishing dinner, that I totally forgot to take pictures of it all. It was really good and I would definitely make the beef dish again; hubby likes thicker gravy, so I would add more cornstarch to thicken it. We have enough mashed potatoes left over to make Potato Pancakes-guess we will have leftovers tonight. The mouse was good, I did remember to snap this thankfully.

It was light and heavenly; not too much chocolate though. After dinner and dessert we played Shanghai and our friends pretty much kicked our ____________'s. But the last hand found me going from last place to tied for first-yes! Love it when a plan comes together; if you believe that, I've got a bridge to sell you. Our friends left around 9:00-they had an hour drive, so hubby and I got the kitchen all cleaned up and dishes put away. Hunter and I are going walking now and then hubby and I will work on the basement-making it easier to pack and stack boxes. Hope you have an incredible weekend!
Noreen

Good Afternoon to you; I can't believe the day has gotten away from me.  Actually, I've been as busy as a bee today. We have close friends that are coming for dinner-you know those friends who don't live nearby and only come over occasionally.  I began by vacuuming and cleaning everything; then I went onto cooking.  We are having Olive Garden's Chianti Beef, Mashed Potatoes, Steamed Broccoli and for dessert Chocolate Mousse.  I've never made the Beef dish or the Mousse-it is fun to try out new recipes but can be a bit unnerving if you aren't a gourmet chef.  After dinner we will play cards and enjoy their company. I promise to get some photos of the meal; I have had the main course before, both my girls make it and it is so delicious.
I hope your Thursday has been blessed and Friday will usher in a wonderful weekend.
Blessings,
Noreen 

August: Osage County

Greetings from our neck of the woods to yours!  Actually today's morning temp isn't too bad-right now it is 19 degrees and should warm up to the high 40's...quite nice.  It is so much more tolerable because our cold is dry; although rough on our skin, it is easier to tolerate than the damp cold of the west coast.  Yesterday, hubby and I ended up going to the movies; Tuesday used to be bargain matinees, but now it is just one price- which is cheaper than going in the evening. When we first moved here, we would go every couple of weeks in the winter-it was an adjustment staying inside for extended periods.  First I have to share that I don't read the plots lines in advance of new movies generally(note to self: read the plot lines for new movies); usually we look at the cast and decide based on those findings.  I got to pick the movie yesterday and really should have read the story line first.  We saw August: Osage County with Meryl Streep and Julia Roberts-two of our all time favorite actresses.   I will begin by saying I think Meryl will be up for Best Actress and Julia for Best Supporting Actress in the A.A. this year.  As for the story-well it was definitely interesting; I knew it revolved around a fractured mother-daughter relationship but that was the extent of my knowledge.  It wasn't as dark as Black Swan-which I hated, but it was pretty intense; built around a dysfunctional, crazy family.  The ending just left you hanging; I'm glad we saw it so I will know what all the talk is about, but if I had it to do over again, I'd skip this movie. 
I would rate it 5 Stars for acting, overall just 2.5-not my cup of tea.
If you have seen it, let me know your thoughts; we are all such individuals that I'm sure there are some out there that loved it.

Have a great day!
Noreen

Chewy Goodness For Your Dog

Good morning to you~I hope you are staying warm. It is cold again here in Colorado and snow is in the forecast for today; actually it is coming down now. The kind of day when you just want to sit in front of a fire and read a good book. At the beginning of January, I was contacted by Andrew from Chewy.Com and asked if I would be interested in reviewing products for their company. I had read that some of my other blogging buddies also did this and thought why not. We then received their monthly email, highlighting what treats you could try for your dog; sure enough a box arrived over the weekend.

 

Hunter had to wait to try the treats; I didn't want to add anything in that might hinder his getting over his stomach upset. Once he was better, I put the box on the ground with the treats. He is waiting patiently.

 

Here is the package of bisquits; I choose this particular item because I hadn't ever tried it on him(he is very picky)and the ingredients are natural and made here in the US.

 

I haven't bought any dog treats online-always been a bit unsure about how good they are. I am pleased to announce that I will definitely be checking out Chewy for more items for Hunter.

 

The size is just perfect for Hunter; I wasn't sure if he'd like it because it is a hard treat but he loves them.

 

 

You can tell just how much he likes them because he went right over to the counter where I have them and sat waiting this morning for one. Fromm is definitely a winner in his book and I am very impressed with Chewy for this program.  Go check out Chewy.com for all your pets needs.
Thank you Andrew and Chewy for this program!
If you'd like more info about the blogger program with Chewy, you can get ahold of Andrew here.
Andrew Bosch
Blogger Network Manager
Chewy.com
ab@chewy.com
1-800-672-4399

Chewy.com sent us a packet of the FROMM's Chicken, Carrot and Peas Treats, in return for an honest review.  We were not paid or compensated for our review in any other way and our opinion is  purely our own.

 I hope you have a great day!  
Sending warm winter hugs your way.
Noreen & a very handsome Hunter

Go TEAMS!

Saturday night I was up alot as Hunter had an intestinal issue and I just couldn't sleep; so yesterday I knew it would be a very relaxed day.  We watched the 49er's game and we thankful that won; then we cheered on the Broncos and thankful they pulled out a victory.  Now we are just hoping that both teams will their playoff games next weekend so that they can play eachother in the Super Bowl.  It is hard to believe I'm actually writing this because for years the only thing football meant was time to read or sew.  How things change! 
Hunter is at the groomers today, he was in dire need of a cut.  I give him lots of baths, when needed, but he needed a trim in the worst way. 
I hope you are having a good morning so far.  The sun is out here and snow is melting , yes! 

Blessings,
Noreen

Rocky Moutain National Park

Happy Friday Friends~I hope your week has been blessed and filled with the warmth of love and family. I'm still experiencing some issues with Picasa but managed to get the photos uploaded a different way.

You can tell we were layered and bundled and I actually started to get warm on the way up. Must have been how hard I was working. We are planning on doing day trips throughout the winter; I think it will be a good break from packing. Now if this white stuff would stop falling here, I might actually be able to get my bike out. No worries-I will not ride if there is ice/snow on the ground; don't want to take any spills. We had our Kim and her kiddos over for dinner last night-such fun. Of course, Hunter was thrilled that Petrol came too. I hope you have a wonderful weekend! To those still experiencing winter, stay warm and safe.
Hugs,
Noreen & Hunter

Thankful Thursday

Greetings Friends! We had such a good time up in the Rockies and although we didn't see any Elk, it was still so relaxing. On Tuesday, hubby and I went snowshoeing; generally we go at least once during the winter. We want to get more into this sport and even bought some used snowshoes at a yard sale last summer. I will say I was concerned about the cold and the wind but it wasn't too bad; we were prepared with lots of layers. Even though I walk whenever I can, I always feel so out of shape; it may have to do with the altitude.

I kept thinking about my blogging buddy, KB, who lives up near the divide and bikes extensively daily. I'm not quite sure how she does it, especially with a bad back and neck, but I'm thinking she is about 30 yrs younger than I am. She is one of those people who inspire me to push on. I will say though that the route we took on Tuesday was a new one and although it wasn't far-maybe 2 miles, it was uphill and had me really breathing hard. I have more photos, but Picasa isn't cooperating this morning, so maybe I'll get them up tomorrow. I am hoping that hubby and I can try to get up to the Park every two weeks or so, just to get into better shape. It's me that needs that, not hubby-he is like a locomotive and keeps going and going. Hunter was at Lily's and had a wonderful time; it is so good that we can just drop him off and not worry about him. I love it that our family can trade dogsitting!
I hope you are staying warm; here in Colorado it is still cold but our snow is melting and the sun is out. More snow is predicted for the play off game on Sunday but I'm hoping it stays south of us.  I hope you are all staying safe and warm.
I am so very thankful for the ability that hubby and I have to get away for a couple of days. I'm thankful for the different seasons and even for the snow.  I am thankful for my daughters and their families-what blessings they all are.  I am thankful that Hunter gets along so well with Lily and Petrol. I am thankful for His grace that marks my steps each day.  I am thankful for computers and blogs and the ability to connect with you all.  For the many friends I've made here, I'm so thankful.  
Joy to you!
Noreen & Hunter

To The High Places

Good Morning Friends~It is outdoor Wednesday and although I hoped to have some good photos ready, hubby and I are outside playing in the snow.  We are up in Estes Park and hope to get some snowshoeing in, if it isn't too frigid out.  Last spring hubby found some snowshoes at a garage sale-what a deal he got!   Normally we head up there with our entire family, but I've been itching to get up there, so we took a drive.  Tomorrow, I'm also hoping to share the road going up-Hi.34.  You may remember that I posted pics from Hi. 36 back in November, to show the devastation from the Sept. floods. 
For those who live in the east-please stay safe!  I guess on Monday there was a driving ban, except for emergencies in some states.  All I know is that while I love the snow and its beauty, I don't enjoy the negative numbers and wind chill.
I hope you are having a great week so far.
Blessings,
Noreen

Goals for 2014

For many people New Years ushers in a set of new plans, resolutions or habits to establish. I haven't done that for  years, although I do like to look realistically at myself and try to make changes that are needed.  Last week, I was visiting a blog and she posted about Goals.  In an effort to look at my life and see what I need to accomplish, I decided to write down some things for the New Year.
~Purge unnecessary items and organize
~Pack up and give away items no longer needed
~Organize and pack for our move
~Get the yard in shape
~Spend more time pursuing hobbies with hubby
~Continue to walk a minimum of 4 times a week
~Continue to bike with my BFF 4-5 times a week, minimum of 8 miles a day
~Resist buying items for the new house that are not a necessity
~Embrace loving family and friends
~Pursue relationships that build up and don't tear down.  Be the friend that I want others to be to me.
~Stand up for myself when other people get in my face and yell or swear at me; let them know this is not o.k.-this does not refer to my family,they would never treat me like that!
~Draw boundaries when necessary, it will grow a healthier friendship.
~I will no longer allow others to bully, swear, yell at me because I am not meeting their expectations.
~Do not put myself in the situation that will provoke another's bullying; walk away when necessary
~Respect myself; if I heard someone treating a loved one like the way I've been talked to, I would be there defending them-so why not do that for myself
~Forgive those who have offended and hurt me
~Extend mercy and grace whenever possible
~Try to model the way Jesus lived.  Let my life model His Love poured out to others; realize this does not mean being a doormat for others
~Love as if it is my last day and let others know how much I love and value them
~Again, be the friend I want others to be to me.  Shower love on others, they may not have another person that does
  Please know that I am not sharing these to whine or complain, but to remind myself that I can choose what is acceptable to me and what is definitely not.


Seize the day, dear friends.  I hope to see your goals for this New Year!
Joy to you!
Noreen and an ever present shadow, Hunter

My New Sewing Room

Happy Monday to you! Last week, I did some digging online and was able to retrieve the picture of my new sewing/quilt room. This photo is the one that initially drew me to the house that we bought; of course the big kitchen, huge walkout basement and being on a golf course also played a part. I will say that the old owner was a long time quilter, who sells most of her work; this room is such a wonderful space. Of course, it won't look like this when I set up my space(I don't have as many tables as she does), but I hope it will be a creative place to sew. I'm going to be on the lookout for another used, inexpensive machine so that the granddaughters can sew when they come over.

One of the things I love about the house is that it is bright and filled with light. I'm drawn to homes that are bright; in fact, if the house had been really dark, we probably wouldn't have taken a second look-or third one.
I hope you have a wonderful day; we were inside most of the weekend due to the latest snow storm but I plan on being outside today.
Blessings,
Noreen

A Tribute to Military "Seal" Dogs

As this New Year begins, I want to thank all those in the military, serving our country. I salute you, whether two legged or four. I saw this today and wanted to share just how incredible the "Seal Dogs" are.

"Like their human counterparts, the dog SEALs are highly trained, highly
skilled, highly motivated special ops experts, able to perform
extraordinary military missions by
Sea, Air and Land

(thus the acronym SEAL).

The dogs carry out a wide range of specialized duties for the military
teams to which they are attached: With a sense of smell 40 times greater
than a human's, the dogs are trained to detect and identify both explosive
material and hostile or hiding humans.
The dogs are twice as fast as a fit human, so anyone trying to escape is
not likely to outrun Cairo or his buddies.

The dogs, equipped with video cameras, also enter certain danger zones
first, allowing their handlers to see what's ahead before humans follow.

As I mentioned before, SEAL dogs are even trained parachutists,
jumping either in tandem with their handlers or solo, if the jump is into
water. Last year canine parachute instructor Mike Forsythe and his dog
Cara set the world record for highest man-dog parachute deployment,
jumping from more than 30,100 feet up - the altitude transoceanic
passenger jets fly at. Both Forsythe and Cara were wearing oxygen
masks and skin protectors for the jump.
Here's a photo from that jump, taken by Andy Anderson for K9 Storm Inc.
(more about those folks shortly).

As well, the dogs are faithful, fearless and ferocious “incredibly
frightening" and efficient attackers.
When the SEAL DevGru team (usually known by its old designation,
Team 6) hit bin Laden's Pakistan compound on May 2, Cairo 's feet would
have been four of the first on the ground.
And like the human SEALs, Cairo was wearing super-strong, flexible body
Armor and outfitted with high-tech equipment that included "doggles" -
specially designed and fitted dog goggles with night-vision and infrared
capability that would even allow Cairo to see human heat forms through
concrete walls.

Now where on earth would anyone get that kind of incredibly niche
hi-tech doggie gear?

From Winnipeg , of all places.

(*NOTE: Not Made in China )

Jim and Gloria Slater's Manitoba hi-tech mom-and-pop business,
K9 Storm Inc., has a deserved worldwide reputation for designing and
manufacturing probably the best body Armor available for police and
military dogs. Working dogs in 15 countries around the world are
currently protected by their K9 Storm body Armor."

May God bless our military and their DOGS!
Noreen & Hunter

From our home in snowy Colorado to yours, we wish you lots of sunny days, blue skies and walks.
Happy New Years Friends!
Hunter

From My Home To Yours

May 2014 bring you joy, peace, happiness, love, health and provision. 
Blessings~Noreen