Monday, November 30, 2015

Where or where did November go? It just flew by and now we are embracing December.
Hubby and I had a wonderful Thanksgiving with our entire crew-all 17 of us.
The food was so good and in lieu of pies our girls made bars, both apple and pumpkin. We did not overdo, which is a good thing because we haven't been able to get out and walk. On Friday we spent the day getting the tree up and finishing the house. On Thursday, after we got our cooking done nod before heading to our girls house, we were able to wrap all of our Christmas presents. It feels so wonderful to have it done. I still have to get some things for hubby, but in all it feels so good.
It's good I'm relaxed because my laptop is still having issues, so until I can get my photos loaded on hubby's Mac Air, my posts may seem boring.  This week will be filled with sewing with the grands, setting up and going to an ornament exchange and a neighborhood Open House. We have more snow in the forecast, so I may get more stitching done.  Yesterday while shoveling the walkway, I took a small tumble, from the ice-I'm fine but it is unnerving to have it happen. As I've gotten into my 60's, I realize how easy it is to break a bone.  I have enough of Dr. visits and hospital stays to last a lifetime and I hope I never have to go through it again.  I just want to make it clear that I wasn't hurt and am figuring out how to deal with ice on our walkway, I'll probably put down salt.
I hope you had a wonderful Thanksgiving and are embracing December.
Love,
Noreen

Thursday, November 26, 2015

From our home to yours, Happy Thanksgiving.  May your day be filled with love and contentment, gratitude and thanks for the freedoms we have here in the United States.  
 See you tomorrow.
Joy,
Noreen

Wednesday, November 25, 2015

It's outdoor Wednesday, so what better time than to post two magnificent cats we saw on Monday in RMNP. You have to look closely, as both cats blend in well to the tree branches.


We were in awe and secretly I was wishing we had a longer telephoto than we have; we are blessed to have a good lens, but I really wanted more detail.  Of course, I probably wouldn't be able to hold a longer one, but we are hoping maybe in the winter to get another one and take a class too.
I love being so close to the Rockies and just driving up for the afternoon.
Hope you enjoyed the pics.
Noreen

Tuesday, November 24, 2015

Happy Tuesday. As promised yesterday, here is the cute ornament I got last weekend. It is different than I've bought in the past, but I loved the homespun cottage feeling. It is made from felted wool and has to elk on it.
Speaking of Elk, yesterday when we were up in RMNP we saw quite a lot.  Most were huge bulls, but we didn't get any good shots of their faces; however tomorrow I will post some picks of two animals we hadn't seen before and I was so excited, just wish we had a longer lens.  It's another cold day and that's alright by me.  Today I'm taking four granddaughters to Jo*nn's for supplies for the second project they are making for their moms.  I'm also hitting the grocery store and getting all our food for Thanksgiving.  The girls and I split up what we bring, so it isn't too much put on one person. All I know is that when our grandsons found out that there would be a total of 30 pounds of turkey, they were very happy.
I hope you have a blessed day.
With love,
Noreen

Monday, November 23, 2015

Happy Monday to you!  I had a cute photo to share today, but once again my computer is acting up and now I can't even get to my gmail.  I'm really hoping it is Google and not my laptop; I can tell you this ongoing issue has been so frustrating.  So on Friday afternoon I went to a craft show and was very disappointed in the items for sale, but I did find one really cute ornament for our ladies Christmas ornament exchange party.  Maybe tomorrow I'll be able to upload it. I love it and would have bought one for myself if they had a second one.  In fact, I wouldn't mind if no one wants it.  Then on Saturday afternoon, I went to our town craft show and only got a couple of things; one item was hand made dog biscuits for Hunter and he doesn't like them, so I'll give some to Odie-his best buddy.
Today I walked and then ran over to my youngest daughters to watch as they decorate the house.  It surely got me in the mood and I think this week things will start appearing before Friday. 
I hope you had a great weekend and will have a warm day. 
Joy to you!
Noreen

Friday, November 20, 2015

Happy Friday

Good Morning to you from cold Colorado. Yesterday was so cold, but the sun was out and shining so life was good; today is cloudy and cool with snow moving in. Guess it is that time of year. I recently read an article on FB about how Norwegians have a different perspective on winter weather. Instead of dreading the snow, they just bundle up(probably in those thick Norwegian sweaters that are not only warm, but beautiful)and spend time outside. Last night when I was reading one of my favorite blogs, a sweet gal who lives in Idaho, shared the beauty of her land after the snow. It inspired me to enjoy the pristine beauty in a new fallen snow. Actually, one thing I enjoy about winter is that I stay inside more and can get more sewing done; it's a good time to relax a normally hectic schedule. We had friends over for dinner last night and enjoyed a visit with them as well as one card game. Our evening ended much too early, but I'm looking forward to seeing them in Dec. Today I have a haircut and color and am so anxious. I had to wait longer than necessary for the appointment, but will be glad to look fresh after it is done. I looked and looked for cute clip art, but am unwilling to download anything or pay for something I can get for free. This computer is still giving me fits and I wonder if a MacAir will be under the tree for me this year.
I have a couple of crafts shows to go to this weekend, but other than that nothing is planned, except sewing. 
I hope you are finding joy in your day and that the weekend will hold some time for you to do something that brings you joy!
Blessings,
Noreen

Wednesday, November 18, 2015

Good morning. Although it is outdoor Wednesday, with our high winds I don't think I'll be outside much. The winds are worse than yesterday and our outside blind actually blew down. I'm not sure what I'll be doing today, except that I'm volunteering at Operation Christmas Child today from 4:00-6:00; it should be fun.
I hope you stay warm!
Noreen

Tuesday, November 17, 2015

Weird Weather

Baby(you know) it's cold outside when  Hunter snuggles in to a nice comfy blanket and just won't move.  Last night was such a night.  We were supposed to get snow, but got rain instead and then heavy snow and blizzard strength winds were supposed to hit us during the night. I had decided if the weather was to be that bad, that I wasn't going to our last study this morning.  It was a brunch for our last class and I had a large egg & vegetable casserole to make, but decided I wasn't going to make it since I probably wouldn't be able to go.  Dear hubby kept telling me to make it as the weather wouldn't be that bad, even thought the forecasters were saying it would be. When I got up at 6:30 am to look out the window and see who much snow we'd gotten, I saw no snow.   So we got up and hubby ran to the golf course to open, while I began making the casserole.  I was able to get out of the house on time and make it to the study.  I'm so thankful I did, I have loved the ladies and although I'll see most of them in Jan., I wanted to wish them the best over the holidays.  It is amazing how close you can become to a group  of ladies in 10 weeks time, but that is what happens when you share your heart with others.  Now I've got more free time to work on my quilt and on miscellaneous projects for Christmas.  It does feel good to have  time off, but I know by January I'll be ready to be there again.  Our weather today is clear, but snow is covering our foothills; I'm heading downstairs to continue on in my sewing room. I hope that you are staying warm and safe, as many of the states are having unusual weather patterns too-such as Kansas and Texas.
Until tomorrow~
Noreen and my adorable sidekick Hunter

Monday, November 16, 2015

Rising Darkness by Nancy Mehl Review

Nancy Mehl is an author I have read in the past and always loved her writing.  Although this book is book #3 in the series, it was a story that you can pick up not having read her previous books in this series.   Below is a snyopsis of the story:
"Sophie Wittenbauer left her strict Mennonite hometown under a cloud of shame and regret. Certain she's left her past far behind her, she's now focused on her job at a newspaper and is shocked when she stumbles upon the name of someone she knew in her old life. But when she learns the man--a prisoner--claims a suspect from a decades-old unsolved crime is hiding out in the small town of Sanctuary, Missouri, she can't resist following the lead in hopes of furthering her career. Almost immediately upon her arrival, Sophie's confronted with a face from her past and fears her intention of using a false identity to investigate is doomed. But with the help of Sanctuary's charismatic young pastor, Sophie knows she's getting close. Will she be able to conceal the truth of her own past long enough to find the suspect before someone puts a stop--fatal or otherwise--to her investigation?"

I loved this story because it was suspenseful and kept me guessing "who did it".  The characters were real and it was a welcome break from the typical Amish/Mennonite plots.  I will definitely look for more of Nancy Mehl's books.  I would rate this a ten star book.
I want to thank Bethany House publishers, a division of Baker Publishers, for providing me this book.  I did not receive any compensation for my review; all they ask if for your honest review.
If you like Amish/Mennonite stories, you will definitely want to pick this book up.



Friday, November 13, 2015

Happy Friday to you. I would love to say that today is going to be a slower, more relaxed day than yesterday but it's not the case. Yesterday was so busy, but filled with fun, laughter and love. I mentioned our youngest girl was coming over to work on something, but can't specify what-just in case someone in the family gets nosy. Suffice to say it is a wood working project and her she is. She had so much fun working with hubby; said it reminded her of high school and making her hope chest, but she appreciated how her dad works and puts things together.

I watched her kiddos while she worked outside and then went to our oldest daughter's home to hang out while she was at the dentist. WE played Clue and I never won, but it was fun. Then we went down to Westminster for dinner with our neighbors. It was a lot of fun; loved the food and didn't feel full until later in the evening. I would definitely eat it again. I do worry though about gluten, but the meat wasn't marinated so I think I was o.k. Today I have a quilt group meeting-to decide how to proceed in the New Year and this afternoon I'm going to a friends for tea. I did get some sewing done yesterday and hope to square up the second set of 16 squares this afternoon. Tomorrow I have another activity-I'm ready for those snowy days so I can just stay home and snow or work on presents. Still haven't got those done yet.
I hope you have a perfect weekend with an activity you love to do.
Blessings~
Noreen

Thursday, November 12, 2015

Delicious Salads

Happy Thursday to you! I am back, at least for now and hope that my internet connection stays connected. Yesterday, hubby and I bypassed going out to lunch and just went to the movies. Whenever we go, we classify the movie as a guy movie or a chick flick. Yesterday was definitely a guy movie and since it was his turn to pick we went and saw the new Bond movie. It was a typical Bond plot, except I liked the very end better.
 Last week when my brother and sil were here we went out to lunch. You know it seems like I go out a lot for lunch, but I always try to have a salad unless of course I'm having salad for dinner then I might order a burger wrapped in lettuce. Here is the club salad-doesn't it look good?

One of my all time favorite salads is one with beets and this one didn't disappoint.
For some reason on the day we dined there, the service was very slow and I found myself wondering if they had relaxed since the originally opened the restaurant.  Guy Fieri reviewed the restaurant on D,D and D and it may have caused a great increase in the customers. 
Today one daughter and her kiddos will be over for an hour or so and then I babysit the other grands for an hour.  This afternoon we are driving down to Denver with our neighbors to go to a new Korean restaurant that just recently opened.  Our neighbors are Korean and we love their food; it should be fun if the traffic doesn't bother me.  We have sunshine but the temp is 43 degrees, still a bit chilly outside.
I hope you have a great day and are ready for the weekend.
Sending hugs your way!
Noreen

Wednesday, November 11, 2015

A Snowy Day

It's outdoor Wednesday and yes, I've been out already shoveling the driveway, sidewalks and walkway to our front porch. It wasn't too bad because the snow was wet, but let me tell you the wind is really cold. We already have sunshine; however my laptop is giving me fits and I can't get on-so this will be quick. Five granddaughters and I went shopping yesterday and got half the supplies for their moms' Christmas presents. I will have to do some shopping and see if I can get the rest. I'm headed downstairs to sew now, but hubby and I are going to lunch and a movie. I hope your weather isn't too bad and that you have time to do something you love.
Joy to you,
Noreen and Huntet

Tuesday, November 10, 2015

Another fabulously delicious treat

If you aren't a dog owner, you probably pass this by and have no idea just how special Mr.Chewy dog treat review program is-but each month I am so glad to be able to try a treat without shelling out a lot of money for it, especially if Hunter doesn't care for it. This month we received Wellness Petite Treats and let me tell you that he loves this treat; it is also surprising because he doesn't typically care for Lamb-treats or otherwise.




As you know he is one spoiled rotten Bichon and I think you can understand why when you see this last photo.  He's got me wrapped around his paw!
We especially like the content of the treats:
"These Grain-Free Petite Treats are just the right size for small breed dogs, while delivering the delicious taste and healthy ingredients their little bodies deserve. Each mini-bite is packed with great flavor from whole foods along with flaxseed to promote a healthy, shiny coat. Without artificial colors or flavors, these healthy treats are perfect for training, treating or just plain spoiling!
Key Benefits
  • Delicious taste & healthy ingredients
  • Flaxseed for healthy, shiny coat
  • No artificial colors or flavors
  • Perfect for training or treating"
Hunter eats them like they are steak and I love the small size. WE are so thankful for Mr. Chewy and Sydney for letting us be part of this program. We received the treats for our honest review without any compensation. I have to tell you that I have started getting all our treats from this company, because of their excellent customer service.  Hunter rates this product four paws. 

Noreen and Hunter

Monday, November 9, 2015

Colorado Proud

Happy Monday my friends! I hope you all had a great weekend. On Saturday, my brother and sil, hubby and I went to the CU-Stanford football game. Ever since CU was inducted into the Pac12, we have made sure that when the two teams play each other we go together. It is a fun rivalry-whichever team is hosting the game, the couple buys the tickets. The other couple then buys dinner after the game. This year, we picked up the tickets and they bought us dinner. It is such fun and we are hoping in two years the game will be at Stanford so we can go there, we've yet to see a game in the new stadium. We loved the tribute to the Veterans and our country.
CU's mascot is Ralphie the Buffalo and they actually run him on the field before the game.  They ran him this year at half time too; let me tell you he is one big boy! There are two people on each side of him with ropes and one fellow in the back who is just hanging on.  Ralphie is one fast Buff.



He goes right into his trailer after running and you can see/hear the sound of his weight on the trailer.  It is so fun to see such an incredible fellow.
We played well the first half of the game; much better than two years ago and it made it so fun to watch.  However, the second half wasn't as good-we got creamed!  Needless to say there was no hope of a comeback so we left before the end of the game to try to beat traffic-lol-everyone else tried that too.  We found a nice sports grill near the airport and had an early dinner with my brother and sil.
It was sad to see them go, but we are so thankful for all the time we get to spend with them.  They are so generous to us and such easy guests-truly they are a huge blessing to all of us.
Today will be a day filled with errands and quiet-when I get home, I'll be sewing.
I hope your week starts out on a good foot.
Blessings~
Noreen

Friday, November 6, 2015

Making Memories

Many of you know that my brother and sister of my heart are here this week for a visit. We've had such a wonderful time together and sadly it will come to an end tomorrow night. Since the boys are so outnumbered, we always have to get a shot with just them.
The girls are not to be outdone though; love everyone beyond measure. 

Our whole gang-so much love in one family. 
Girls playing Ninjas, even Kim got involved.




Carrie and I even took a selfie, not to be outdone by little man who was taking many.
We've had a wonderful time together; today we had a tea/luncheon at Kim's for all the girls.  Both Carrie and Kim are wonderful hostesses and the granddaughters are all growing up learning proper etiquette and are not intimidated by large parties.  While the girls were having lunch, my brother and hubby took the boys out to lunch.  After lunch, a special Aunt took the girls to get outdoor Christmas decorations and the boys went shopping for hobby supplies.  Tomorrow we have our football game and then sadly will bid farewell to my brother and sil.  It always makes me so sad when they leave, life is such a gift we must enjoy every minute-just wish they weren't so few.
I hope your Friday has been good and that you have a fantastic weekend.  We actually had light snow today and are just hoping it doesn't snow tomorrow.
Hugs to you~
Noreen

Wednesday, November 4, 2015

Happy Wednesday to you. I hope you are enjoying some time outdoors, me not so much. I had a little slip last week while shoveling the snow and although I didn't get hurt, it was frightening and I'm more hesitant to go walking if there is any possibility of ice. However, during the winter we get to see different birds than we normally do~of course we get geese(pretty, but so messy), Magpies and a few others. We have Cooper Hawks here a lot, but the other morning we got to see one up close and personal. Isn't he a beauty!

We always have doves around, but I loved seeing them in bare trees.

Do you get to see different birds or animals in the winter in your area? WE also often have Bald Eagles that nest here during the winter.
Have a wonderful day today and enjoy life, for time is so short.
Joy to you!
Noreen

Tuesday, November 3, 2015

It already seems to be getting busier; I'm not sure if it is the fact that my big brother and sister-in-love are coming tomorrow for a visit, which meant we did some cleaning(even Hunter got a bath today) and stocking up on food or if it is because I am trying to work on some special Christmas presents for our family and my girls. Whatever the case, I feel like I haven't stopped all day.  I know that having them here will be such a relaxing time filled with love of family, except when we go to the Denver CU vs Stanford football game on Saturday.  You can be sure our loyalties are mixed-having been born and raised in Palo Alto, our early years were spent cheering for Stanford and now our loyalty is with Denver(sort of).  It is always such fun to go to the game with them!
We will be having a big family dinner here on Thursday and having some special times together on Friday as well.  You probably won't see me, because after all, we need to cherish every day together. 
I hope that your week is starting off well and that your life is filled with peace, joy, contentment and love.
Hugs to you!
Noreen

Monday, November 2, 2015

Happy November

It is hard to believe we've entered November,with Thanksgiving and Christmas right around the corner. This sunset was from last week and the clouds were so pretty.

I've mentioned I've been working on a new quilt-Barn Raising Log Cabin and this weekend I got some more time sewing. These squares are just stuck up on my design wall, so pardon the unevenness of the design. I really love the look so far; I've got 16 squares completed and 16 more that just need the dark brown border, 32 more to make. This is supposed to be a queen size quilt, but until it is together, it looks much larger.

Last night we watched the Broncos finally play like they have in past seasons. Even though they were 6-0 before last night, the offense just wasn't up to par. However, last night was so good and refreshing to see them play like we are used to. I'm off to get my annual mammogram this morning and then all my appointments will be out of the way til next year. I hope your November starts out well.
Noreen