Birthday Time

Hello! As you know our two daughters have large families, which means that there is always a birthday or two happening. This last weekend, we celebrated Little Man's birthday and his sister Miss D's birthday which is today. Due to our son-in-laws parents who moved here from Ca. last May, we know have 19 at our gathering-so much fun! Here are a few pics; you might wonder about the bandaids on Little Man's forehead-he had a run in with a banister and ended up with four stitches. We are so thankful that it wasn't worse.

Miss D recently got a hair cut-a cute bob; Little Man is 5 now and Miss D turns 9 today.

We are so thankful for both our grands, the rest of the tribe and both daughters & son-in-laws, who are more like our sons.
This has been a busy week-several days at the gym, shopping for our trip next week, coffee with friends and two granddaughters and a dinner out.  Today we are taking our daughter's in-laws out to lunch.  I think I definitely need a few more hours at the gym; I can't walk due to the heavy rain we've had for two days.  Saturday is another granddaughter's birthday, so there will be another birthday party.
May your joy overflow.
Noreen 

The Proving by Beverly Lewis

Beverly Lewis has been a long time favorite author of mine, especially with the Amish genre. This book is her latest and one of my favorites.

From the author's website: 

"After five years as an Englisher, Amanda Dienner is shocked to learn her mother has passed away and left her Lancaster County’s most popular Amish bed-and-breakfast. What’s more, the inn will only truly be hers if Mandy can successfully run it for twelve months. Reluctantly, Mandy accepts the challenge, no matter that it means facing the family she left behind—or that the inn’s clientele expect an Amish hostess! Can Mandy ful ll the terms of her inheritance? Or will this prove a dreadful mistake?"

Once again, this story is rich in character and takes you to a different life.  The depth of characters, both Amish and English, shows how we can all be caught up in challenges. The plot weaves a tale that keeps you guessing as to what the outcome will be.  If you enjoy Amish stories, you will definitely love this one.
I received a free copy of this book from Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing.  No review, positive or otherwise, was required.  All opinions are my own.  Thank you Bethany House and their blogger program for the opportunity to review this book.

New England

Greetings~As I've been organizing our intinerary for our trip, I keep coming across photos of New England in all her glory. My heart be still.

Although this will be our third trip, each time we discover new things that we love about this part of the country.  From Covered Bridges to incredible colors to decorated towns and porches-we love it all.  It remains uncertain if we will see the peak colors, but even if we miss them they are still brighter than what we have here in Colorado. I so miss the purples, reds, oranges; we do get orange, gold and yellow here-but not like there.
I hope you enjoy this season, whereever you are.
Blessings~
Noreen

Happy Monday to you!  Last week while at Steamboat, we decided to take a drive and see Steamboat Lake and new areas.  Unfortunately, the lake was closed; we did find another one though.  Here are some sights along the back roads.

;

Once again, we have a busy week ahead~going to the gym, doing some sewing, organizing trip notes and getting those in order..besides several family times.  Carrie's oldest daughter turns 12 on Saturday, so there will be another family celebration.
I hope you have a great day!
Joy to you.
Noreen

Oh The Food

Happy Friday to you all. We are back at home and had such a great time getting away! We had a very relaxing time in Steamboat Springs and it was just what we needed. On Tuesday night, after checking in we went to a favorite Steak House called the 8th Street Grill. One of the interesting things is that you actually choose your cut of meat at the counter and then you cook it on an indoor grill yourself. WE haven't been there for several years, but I always take picture of the animals in the restaurant for our youngest grandson.

I'm not quite sure what their seasoning mix is, but it's really good.  They give your instructions on how hot the grill is and how long you'll need to grill them on each side.

On Wednesday night we tried a new restaurant, recommended by our neighbors and oh my, what a great place it was. It felt like we were in Italy.

Unfortunately, I forgot to take a photo of the salad that came with this dish and I had already moved my spoon around before I remembered to take this photo. O.k., so because they make all their own pasta from scratch and even had gluten free pasta I really wanted to try this dish. I'm almost afraid to tell you what is was, because I know many might react the way I typically would and not try it. However, after talking to John the owner/chef I felt comfortable trying it. I used to eat Veal Marsala for years, until I learned how calves were treated. I am here to reassure you that this Veal was a local source and the rancher had a dairy farm that was failing, so she decided to sell some of her calves that had been raised free range with their moms to local restaurants. They were not treated inhumanly, as most calves kept for Veal are. I can also tell you that this meal was one of the all time best, if not best meal, my hubby and I have ever eaten. We had a nice talk with the owner afterwards and this will be a restaurant that we frequent when we go back.

Yesterday morning we went to one of the breakfast places we frequent and this is what we had.  I had the Athena Scrabble with tomatoes, asparagus and mushrooms sprinkled with Feta cheese.  Loved it.

Hubby had a avocado, spinach, bacon and cheese scramble that I can't remember the name of.  WE brought half of our meal home for tomorrow's breakfast.

We headed out about 9:15 and were home right about 1:00, after stopping for a car wash.  We had taken a drive out in the country and the car was covered in mud.  I will have photos of what we saw on my next post.  Hunter had a great time with family, but I always love picking him up.
I've already walked this morning, now have to wrap some birthday presents and then hope to sew.  Tonight we have a birthday celebration for two grands; should be so fun.  Hubby and I will head to the gym this afternoon to do some work-probably just do the treadmill and bikes, until we find out from a trainer what our routine will be.
I hope you have a great day, Happy Fall y'all.
Hugs,
Noreen

The High Country

Happy Outdoor Tuesday.  I could barely believe the thermometer registered 47 degrees this morning when I got up.  Summer is fleeting away and fall is here.  Yesterday I had a nice visit with my friend over lunch, celebrating her 71st birthday.  After that, we went to a local JAX sporting good store to see if there were any good sales going on.  There were, but it was a bit rich for my tastes; I then drove her home.  Most of the day was gone by the time I got home, it seemed like it was almost time for dinner.  This morning I've already walked with girlfriends; I haven't yet started at the gym, because hubby and I are heading to the high places for two days.  This will be truly a R&R time away, before we head to New England-which will not be a slow paced trip.  There will be too many places to see, to much seafood to eat and too much fun.  So today I've got to shower, figure out what I'm taking for the brisk air up there and then pack. Hubby is golfing and when he gets home we will head out. It is a three hour drive and we will only stop for bathroom breaks; we have a favorite restaurant that will go to for dinner tonight.  It is called 8th Street Grill and basically a butcher shop where you can pick your own cut of meat and they grill it for you; it's not cheap, but oh so good.  I'm not sure how much hiking we'll do with hubby's heal spurs; hopefully we'll get one or two easy ones in.  One of hubby's closest friends and his wife just happen to be going up there today too-so we will meet them for breakfast tomorrow.  Hunter will be in heaven with Copper and Lily and the grands.
I hope you are all enjoying the changing season and being grateful for life.
Hugs,
Noreen

Happy Monday

Happy Monday to you!  I'm off to lunch with a friend so will be back later today.
Joy to you!
Noreen

Some New Items

Happy Friday to you! Yesterday as I was shopping for a granddaughter, I just had to stop at one of my favorite stores-Pier *ne. I couldn't resist these items and each year I try to get something new to my collection celebrating fall.

I'm off on a shop hop this morning with five quilt friends, so I've got to get a move on.
Have a fantastic weekend.
Blessings~
Noreen

Welcome Fall

It's Thankful Thursday and I am so thankful for the changing of the season. This year as I got my decorations out, I decided to change things up a bit.

Do you ever take pictures and realize that you were holding your phone unevenly.
I'm off to do some birthday shopping this morning and will be visiting Joann's, so may come home with a few more items.  Fall is my favorite time of year with Summer a close second.
We've got three birthdays this month and I've already finished two of the grands, with one left.
I'm itching to get to the high country, but that will wait until next week.  The leaves are starting to change and I love being able to walk in the morning without getting too hot.  At night there is a cool breeze that comes through our bedroom window.  I'm hoping that maybe this weekend hubby and I will be meet with the orientation gal at our gym and give us the introductory class.  We will probably meet with a trainer as well.  I will continue to walk at least four days a week and a dear friend of mine from California who has osteoporosis also, gave me some great tips.
I hope you have a fantastic day!
Hugs,
Noreen

Thoughts on Getting Older

Happy Wednesday to you!  This life was created to be enjoyed, but our bodies sometimes don't get those memos.  I found out that I have Osteoporosis in the top of my left femur-near the hip; my doctor emailed me about the results of my Dexa scan.  I have know I had osteopenia for years and have increased my walking because of it.  So today, hubby and I are going to a high end gym near us that accepts Silver Sneakers to check out their weights, trainers and facility.  I told hubby, who has a bad back, that we need to do it together.  It will help both of us.  So after we have breakfast, we will be heading out.
If you are not a senior, I can tell you that you need to be doing weight bearing exercises on a regular basis-several times a week. Thankfully weights can reverse many of the issues.
I'll let you know what we find out, but in the meantime take care of your body-it's the only one we've got.
Hugs,
Noreen

Natural Balance Tender Cuts Review

As a #ChewyInfluencer, each month Hunter is delighted when the Fed-Ex truck pulls up with his delivery. I have to say that this month's choice was a huge hit and one I will be purchasing from Chewy.

You can see the size is perfect for Hunter and they are soft and chewy-again another plus for our boy.

I break it up and add it to his kibble; sometimes he just gets one as a treat.

From Chewy:

The dog days of summer are upon us and Natural Balance is keeping temps high with Delectable Delights Dog Treats! After Spot is done hanging' ten, he likes to refuel with these meaty and delicious snacks. These Tender Cuts are perfect for those backyard BBQ's...let your pup join in on the fun!

Key Benefits

• Made with high-quality venison
• No corn, wheat, artificial flavors or colors
• Great for training or as a healthy treat
• Great for puppies and adult dogs
• Natural soft and moist treats your dog will love

WE would like to thank Miss Natalie and Chewy for this incredible program and their great service.

You can find other wonderful products here:  https://www.chewy.com
DISCLAIMER:  We received these treats from Chewy and were not compensated in any way for our opinion, positive or otherwise.  

Noreen and Hunter

Let Us Remember

It seems like so long ago and yet just yesterday that this tragedy and attack occurred.  To those whose loved ones lost their lives in the attack and those who valiantly worked and sacrificed their lives to find survivors~WE HONOR YOU!  We have continued on with our lives, but yours are forever changed.  May God cover you with His Peace today.

Noreen

Thankful Thursday

Happy Thursday friends! I have to tell you that I am so very thankful that we are now done painting the interior of our house-closets included. The only inside area that isn't painted is the storage area in the basement, but it is cement, so that is why. After painting our guest room, we needed to freshen it up quite a bit; our old spread was from California. Now let me tell you I went to at least 10-12 stores before I finally settled on this comforter set. I wasn't sure hubby would like it, but good news is that he loves it. There are still a few things we need to hang on the wall, but overall we are very pleased.

I'm heading over to our daughter's to water their garden and then we will be going out to lunch with our inlaws that just moved here. It's been a very busy week for me,  tomorrow and Saturday will be the same. I can tell you that I had a wonderful sleep on our new mattress set; hubby thinks it's firmer than our old one, but I just know I felt very comfortable. I hope you have a blessed day; remember to pray for those in the path of Irma.
Blessings,
Noreen

Blessings In A Small Town

Hello friends~In today's world where so many people think only of themselves and what they can get out of life, it is refreshing to have a land owner in our small town plant a crop of corn and another orchard and then announce to those living in the development he started that the corn is for anyone to go pick.  Thank you Martin! We found out about it by chance and since hubby works for the land owner/golf course/country club we were able to go pick, which we did.  Apparently, most people in the development aren't picking it and it may very well be taken over by critters.  One daughter and her family were able to go pick; they even put some of it in the freezer for the winter.  We've had fresh corn for the last two nights and I think we will go back on Friday or Saturday to get some more.  Our oldest is out of town and we may pick some from them.  It isn't the sweetest corn I've tasted, but in my book there is nothing like fresh corn.  I could eat it every day.  We often just wrap it in foil with a little bit of butter and throw it on the bbq.
I had a photo of the stalks, but I delete things from my cell phone so quickly and that was one of the pics.
Today's sky is a bit clearer and hopefully the fires in Montana and California, Oregon and Washington will be put out.  It has been so hazy here; I pray for those firefighters and those in the fires path.  It wasn't enough for Harvey to devastate Texas and other areas, but now Irma is  looks to be worse.
I hope you are all having a great day and enjoying the changing season.
Hugs,
Noreen

LABOR DAY IN A SMALL TOWN

Our small town isn't feeling very small anymore. There is tons of building going on and the traffic is heavy. We've been spoiled for 10 years and I hate to see us grow more. Saturday and Sunday there was a dawn patrol Hot Air balloon watch, which we passed on(we used to go in Ca. to all of them) and also a car show at a local park; we normally go, but hubby had to work. Our youngest girls family went and said they can't remember it ever being as packed as it was this year. Saturday evening there was an all town bbq at the lake with a concert and fireworks following it. Hubby again had to work, but everyone must have been at the concert and he was able to get off early. He stopped and got us a pizza and we headed over to have dinner there. Let me tell you that our little town sponsors some great groups for our concerts. If you like country, you should recognize this singer-Carly Pearce. She has a song out that is in the top 10 on country stations-it is EVERY LITTLE THING, a song I love. Her voice is beautiful and she was so nice. Mid way through the evening, two hot air balloons were tethered and so pretty.

We couldn't believe how crowded the park was; we left before the fireworks, just to get out before traffic got nuts.  Yesterday we bypassed the all town parade, due to the crowds and the haze we have had from all the wildfires in the west and from Montana.  Instead we took our inlaws to the Harvest Festival and walked around.  It was fun, but parking was crazy-you had to park blocks away and walk in.
Hope you have a great weekend.
Hugs,
Noreen

We have spent the weekend celebrating in our town, truly a celebration throughout the weekend.
I'll be back tomorrow with some photos.
Enjoy your day off.
Noreen

Welcome September

Good Morning Friends and Happy September to you. This morning is cool, 57 degrees and a bit cloudy~it feels like fall. Where or where did the summer go? I still haven't taken all of my harvest decorations out, I don't want to be sick of them by November. I'll probably just bring a few things out every so often. Yesterday, while I was at lunch with some friends our girls and the grands met at a nearby park. Although I had a great time with the friends, I did miss having lunch at the park. One family is headed to Branson for the week and I'll miss them as well. Just glad the other family didn't choose to go, or this nana would be going through withdrawals. So these two pics show our oldest grandsons stopping the group on the slide.

I'm to walk to walk and then will be organizing my sewing room closet.  Hubby painted it yesterday, which meant that everything was emptied into the room.  It looks so clean and nice, I've got to organizing a little more.  I will put my bookcase in the closet, so it's out of the way.
We will  have dinner tonight at Kim's, should be yummy.  Tomorrow we are going mattress hunting, oh fun.  Hubby isn't thrilled, but if I told you just how old are mattresses are you'd be shocked.
Monday we have our all town parade and then will go to the Harvest Festival.
I hope you enjoy your long weekend!
Hugs,
Noreen