Portabella-Basil Alfredo

I don't know if I've ever shared this with you, or not. But I'm one the biggest fans of mushrooms. Ever! I'm serious. It hasn't always been that way. My Mom is a HUGE mushroom fan. Always has been. But me. It took me a while to get "on board."

But once I did, there was no turning back. Not at all! I must buy 2 boxes of mushrooms, from COSTCO a week! I eat them raw. I add them to my favorite recipes. Heck, I just enjoy them every single day.

So when I got this yummy cookbook recently, there was no looking back! I was thumbing through, and noticed a certain little recipe. I wanted to make it immediately! But with all this traveling, it was pushed back.

Until this week. And I was at home. Looking at one of my favorite websites. Hello! Gooseberry Patch posted this recipe. It's this week's Recipe of the Week! A match made in Heaven!!!

Portabella-Basil Alfredo

16-oz. pkg. spinach fettuccine pasta, uncooked
1 T. olive oil
5 portabella mushrooms, chopped
3 c. milk
1-1/2 t. garlic salt
8-oz. pkg. cream cheese, cubed
3-oz. pkg. cream cheese, cubed
1-1/2 t. dried basil
1-1/2 c. grated Parmesan cheese

Cook pasta according to package directions; drain. Meanwhile, heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté mushrooms until tender, about 5 minutes; drain any extra liquid from pan. Add milk and garlic salt to skillet; heat just to boiling. Stir in both packages of cream cheese and basil. Reduce heat to low; cook, stirring constantly, until cream cheese is melted. Stir in Parmesan cheese; cook over low heat until melted, about 3 minutes. Serve over pasta. Makes 8 to 10 servings.



This was dinner Wednesday. Mostly because we've been so busy. And haven't been to the grocery store. I had everything on hand. And whipped this up in no time! I made a few changes. I added onions. In this house, we LOVE them! And I used a few cloves of garlic. You know, instead of garlic salt. The flavors just melted together. And made such a yummy meal!

We had some friends in town, and this was dinner. It was fast enough, for a weeknight meal. But tasty enough, for company. I also made some homemade bread, a salad, and some dessert. It was yummy! And you should try it too. And soon! Thanks again, to Brooke for the yummy cookbook!!! ♥

Colorful Fun :)

Back in September, my Mom got an ad from Old Navy. Being a cardholder, these are regular. And honestly, the best thing to get in your mailbox. Well, besides those ads from Jo-Ann. :)

Almost immediately, my Mom went to Old Navy. She couldn't find this shirt. And might have gotten a little distracted, with other purchases. But my Mom never forgot about this shirt Actually, every single time that we talked, she asked me if I'd found this shirt.

Well, I finally found her shirt. Online! It's taken forever. Mom, I've got you covered, I ordered this shirt for my Mom. She just LOVES the bright colors! And I might have gotten this one for myself. :) I adore the green and blue combo. Around these parts, they are "regular" colors in our wardrobe.

Honestly, I'm kinda wondering if I should go back, and order the orange one for me too! Yes, extra "spare" time, can be a little dangerous. Let's not talk, about the online Christmas shopping, that I also did! ♥

Little Owls

We're on the road this week. Which means, I've got to have a handy, little project to work on. "Little" is the keyword here. So I did a little search, and found this fun pattern!

I'm so excited about this pattern! Many people in my life, happen to adore owls! Oh, and I'm thinking, these could make some nice gifts. Or, a nice addition, to an upcoming Craft Fair. That my Mom and I will be selling at. Yes, I'm pretty excited about this pattern. By the way, a GREAT way to use up your scrap yarn. Happy Monday! ♥

Icy Day Cowl

There have been 2 things, running through my head lately. It's getting cold. As in, I need a jacket, and scarf cold. And the Craft Fair, that my Mom and I are selling at, is less than a month away. Two things, that are putting me into "high gear."

I took a little time, yesterday, to search for some patterns. That would help in both of these areas. What did I come up with? A cute cowl.

I honestly adore this. Not necessarily in these colors. But I adore this cowl! I've started one for me. In grey. And I'm finding, that it's simple. As in, I can make a few of these, for the upcoming Craft Fair. Maybe in some more "Festive Colors." I might just spend my evening crocheting. And maybe watching a few movies, with My Love. ♥

A Few of My Favorite Things

A few days ago, My Guy and I headed to my parents' cabin. My Mom had asked me to go and "winterize" the place. Because, they just couldn't get out there. Being that this guy is taking a little break from work right now, totally played into this plan.

We headed to Albertson's for a few necessities. And then across the street, to Walgreen's. You know, before heading to the mountains. Where the nearest store, is over an hour away. We needed to stock up, on a few things. Nothing too nuts. As we were only going to be there, for 2 days.

But that didn't seem to bother, little 'ol me. :) First of all, I'm pretty sure, I bought out these little guys. My favorite candy. That I can't find anywhere else...

Why are they my favorite? I don't know. Probably because these are my favorite flavors. And I don't have to eat lemon candies. That I just don't like.

Oh, and I couldn't resist the "Beauty Section." Where I bought my new favorite nail polish. L'Oreal's "Eiffel For You." It looks pretty purple, or lavender, in this picture. But in reality, it's more of a grey color. A great neutral for Fall.

Oh, and of course my favorite purchase!!! Gooseberry Patch's Halloween magazine. It's loaded with tons of fun ideas for Halloween. Not just food people! Decorating ideas. And little gifts too! The price was a little high. But with a nice coupon, I only paid $4!!!

Yes, I've spent the last few days trying new recipes. Dreaming of all the things, I'm going to make this month. Writing out lists of supplies, I'll need. Oh, and enjoying my candy. Seriously people, why can't I find it at other stores? ♥

My Newest Addition

Pretty sure, that you know all about, one of my favorite collections. My "Apron Collection." It's probably the most dear to my heart. It all started, with 4 aprons. That belonged to, 2 of my grandmas.

Over the last few years, my collection has grown quite a bit. With lots of handmade aprons. Did you say crochet apron? Why yes, I happened to make one for myself. I've also convinced my Momma, to sew me up a few. Say, one for every holiday! :)

Yes, I'm a bit spoiled. I even take to sewing my own. Searching out darling fabrics. Even vintage curtains. Heck, even this guy's family knows. His grandma sewed me up a "Birthday Apron." His momma is always picking me up a new one. From my favorite store Target.

But just the other day, I came home to this sweet thing. The Eiffel For You Apron. :) That my sweet man, happened to order. Just for me. In case you're interested, there are a few left. And as of this morning, they went on sale. Not sure how long that will last. But this beauty, is now $28. How can you resist those ruffles, that bow, and the cute print? I treasure my new girl. The newest addition, to my most dear collection. ♥

Stunning Shawl: Week 2

Hi everyone! Welcome to "Week 2" of our "Crochet Along!" This is the week, we actually crochet. That is exciting, all by itself!

Our goal for this week, is going to be to work rows 1-9. That means we're starting our Stunning Shawl. And working a second "section." Not too bad. And this will allow us all to ease into our projects. I know school has started for most kids/people. This should be an achievable goal for the week.



I got a few questions this week. All about yarn. Individually, I answered the questions. But I thought I'd post something about it here. I was asked if you could use the "One Pounder," from Lion Brand. As in the "Baby Yarn." Yes, you can. It will make your shawl a little more "delicate." Probably a little smaller, and lighter as well. You might also have to go down a size in hook. Just to make your work look neat.

And I've gotten a few comments about Red Heart's large skeins of "Super Sport." That would also be a great way to go. Then you wouldn't have to hide extra threads, from connecting the 2 skeins of yarn.

Remember, if you have any questions, comments, or concerns feel free to contact my Mom or I. You can also e-mail us at CraftyMomLoves (at) aol (dot) com. Or SweetNightingaleSing (at) gmail (dot) com. You can also send us pictures, of your shawls. That's always fun to see! Have a wonderful week. And we'll see you next Sunday!!! ♥

My Little Secret

Apparently, I've been holding out on you. And you. And you too! I totally forgot to blog about this. And recently, my friend Annie, reminded me of it!

You see, about a year and a half ago, I went to Walgreen's. I went to transfer my Dad's prescriptions there. We were having some issues with the pharmacy, he had been using. While I waited for his prescriptions, I went to look through the makeup. Particularly, the nail polish. Revlon's was on a BOGO. And I had a coupon!!!

Well, I totally got caught up, in searching for other things, and was startled when my name was called. So I quickly picked up 2 nail polish colors. Liked the colors, but didn't notice anything else.



After getting everything home to my parents, I headed to the hotel, where I was staying. Exhausted! I quickly polished my nails, hung my hands over the edge of the bed. And went to sleep.

The next morning, I smelled raspberries. But couldn't figure it out. The color was Raspberry Rapture. I got ready, and as I was putting on my makeup, I smelled it again. That day, I must have asked 10 people, if my nail polish smelled like raspberries.

That night, I polished a second coat. And this guy asked if my nail polish smelled like raspberries. Yes, that's what it was. I LOVED the color, the slight scent, and the price. With my coupon, I actually made $1 on every bottle. Um, I went back, and bought all of them!

I thought I had blogged about these polishes. But when I met Annie recently, I realized I hadn't. I don't even know what we were talking about. Or how we got on the subject, of my nail polish. But I told Annie about my little discovery.

She told me it wasn't on my blog. And we searched and searched. Sure enough, nowhere to be found! So I started writing. And over the next 2 days, I was talking to everyone about these nail polishes. Including my Mom. Who LOVES to do her nails! I'm pretty sure, I just sold Revlon at least 20 bottles!!! Funny how that happens. I guess it's better to share with you all late, than never at all. Now let me think of what else, I've missed telling you about... ♥

Stunning Shawl: Week 1

Welcome Back! It's "Week 1" of our little "Crochet Along." My Mom and I are impressed by all the interest!!! Looks like everyone likes the Stunning Shawl. As of this morning, we have 59 people signed up. Yay!!!

This week, we're starting off easy. You just need to print out this pattern. And buy your supplies. You'll need a size H (5.5mm) hook. And 2 skeins of your favorite yarn. About 14 oz.



I went with a new yarn. I have no clue what it's called. I know it's by Red Heart. But the wrappers were all taken off of the yarn. It's not the "regular" Red Heart "Super Sport." Something new, that Wal-Mart had. And it's super soft! I bought 2 skeins of plum.

Next week, we start our crocheting. :) Just wanted to start off easy. If you have any questions, or still want to sign up, leave my Mom or I a comment. And we can't wait to see you next week! ♥

Crochet Along: Stunning Shawl

Do you remember when I told you about a new "Crochet Along?" Well, my Mom and I have been debating a pattern, for about a month now. I know! But there are so many choices. We thought about something with thread. Because she's awesome at it! Me, not so much!

Then we thought about an amigurumi project. You know, because I've now got her addicted to the stuff! Or maybe something for Fall. Maybe something to decorate with. Something for our homes.

But there was this one pattern, that we just kept going back to. One that was calling us. One that we couldn't resist. That would be, Red Heart's Stunning Shawl!



Do you love it? Do you want to be a part of our little "Crochet Along?" Well, you just have to leave my Mom or I a comment. Or an e-mail. My Mom's e-mail address is CraftyMomLoves (at) aol (dot) com. And mine is SweetNightingaleSing (at) gmail (dot) com.

That's it! From the time we start crocheting, to the end of the project, should be 6 weeks. Every week, we'll post a "goal." You are welcome to work past it. And it's OK, if you don't work quite as fast as our "goal."

This is just going to be a fun little group, all working on the same project. A cute shawl, that should come in handy this Fall. If you're like us, you're still battle the high 90s, and random triple digits. But soon enough, it will be cool. The perfect weather for this shawl.

We hope to see you next Sunday! Don't forget, if you have any questions, comments, or concerns, don't hesitate to contact us. Now, or when we start our projects. Have a wonderful week! ♥

Mom's Blackberry Jam

I have something to admit. I'm a HUGE fan of berries. All berries. And of homemade jams, jellies, and preserves. I've only made them a handful of times. With My Guy's grandma. She is so good at it! Never uses recipes. And ALWAYS comes up with wonderful treats for us!

For a while now, I've wanted to make my own. And just couldn't think, of what type I'd make. I bought some apricots last week. Then I ate them all! :) Then I tried raspberries. Oh, but those were delish too!

As you can tell, I've had this on my mind,m for a while now. My Mom and I, had also been talking about making some preserves. Maybe peach. Because one of their employees, brought them a few sacks of peaches. Yum!

Well, all of this made more sense, when I saw this week's Gooseberry Patch, Free Recipe of the Week. Blackberry Jam! I immediately knew, I had to make it. I ran to the store, bought all the blackberries I could find. And when this guy got home from work, we had jars and jars of Blackberry Jam!!!



Mom's Blackberry Jam

4 c. blackberries, washed and hulled
4 c. sugar
4 1/2-pint canning jars and lids, sterilized

Place blackberries in a large Dutch oven; just cover with water. Bring to a rolling boil; add sugar. Boil until mixture drips thickly from a wooden spoon, about 30 to 45 minutes. Spoon into hot sterilized jars, leaving 1/4-inch headspace. Wipe rims; secure with lids and rings. Process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes; set jars on a towel to cool. Check for seals. Makes 4 jars.



So let me be honest with you, it was wonderful! Super easy to make. And if you've ever wanted to try your hand at canning, this would be the recipe to try. It's ridiculously easy! And delish!

Oh, and it doesn't hurt, that I have a GREAT history with blackberries. Growing up, our neighbors had a HUGE blackberry bush. For days and days, maybe even weeks, my friend and I would eat blackberries. Straight from the bush. We didn't bother washing them. They were that good, and sweet!

Now that I have this under my belt, I think I'm going to try some more. I'd LOVE to make some strawberry preserves. Or apple butter. And my Mom wants to try something with those yummy peaches. Oh Gooseberry Patch, I think you created a "Canning Monster!" ♥

Cutest Animals Ever!!!

I don't know about you, but I'm a very indecisive person. It takes me weeks, sometimes months, to buy something. I have to look at it, research, debate if I really want it. It's sorta a pain in the butt.

For example. Every single time, I go to a craft store, I look at this book. "Easy Crochet Critters." I even put it in my basket. Then when I get to the register, I decide not to buy it. Well, not too long ago, I went shopping with my Mom. And I debated this book again. Even with my coupon. Making this book $2...



I think my Mom had had enough with me. She bought me the book. And you know what? I think it's my favorite crochet book ever! There are so many cute patterns in this book. Definitely worth the cost. And the best part, they are super easy to make! I whipped up a lion, elephant, hippo, giraffe, and monkey in one night! The monkey is by far, my favorite animal of the bunch! The face of the lion is also to die for!!!



So I've taken this book, and created a few different gifts. A musician I used to work with, has a little girl. That just turned a year old. I made her 5 animals, whipped up a little bag, and bought her an animal book. She LOVED it!

Then a friend of ours, also has a little girl that's turning a year old. I made a few different animals, and pretty much made her the same gift. I whipped up a few, to send to another cousin. Who just had a baby. And I have a list of kiddos, I still want to make a set for.

But by far, that little monkey has been the winner. I've made 10! That weren't in these sets. And I've sold every single one! I'm not even trying to sell them. But everybody is in love with them. I've got a few more ordered. And I'm starting to make some extra animals. Because in September, my Mom and I are going to sell at another Craft Fair. :) I can't wait! ♥

In Love with Colored Denim!!!

I have a bit of a confession. In March, my parents took me shopping. For my birthday. Honestly, I didn't want to go. Am I the only one, that feels too old, to let their parents buy them stuff? Maybe it's just me...

Anyway, my Mom and I, ended up at Old Navy. We also got a little sidetracked at JCPenney, The Icing, Victoria's Secret, a local shoe store, and a cute boutique. :) I know, huh. But really, I didn't want to shop. Back to Old Navy.

They were having this insane sale!!! And I was mentally, writing down a list of things I wanted to buy. Later. With my money. Then I saw those jeans! The ones that Jelly has been sporting. The ones, that I thought I would look ridiculous wearing. Yes, those jeans!



Beautifully colored jeans. Oh. My. Goodness! I just didn't know what to do!!! And they were on sale. So I let my Momma, buy me 2 pairs. :) Green and yellow. My heart was a little heavy, when they didn't have my size in blue...



Then I get online, and everyone is wearing colored denim. And I'm falling in love...faster...and harder. I tell this guy about it. He promptly orders every color from Old Navy. Before I return home. Have I mentioned how much I love him? And not just because of this little deed...



And then I see this fabulous picture of Mrs. Ingrid. Rocking a pair of yellow jeans. Similar to the ones, that are hanging in my closet. The ONLY pair, that I haven't worn. Because I'm just NOT brave enough yet...

Yes, I'm in LOVE with colored denim!!! There is no rhyme or reason. Just the simple fact. On my days off, I'm in colored denim. Even when my pjs are calling my name. They're just so pretty, that I can't help myself! ♥

If Only...

Wouldn't it be wonderful to win the lottery? There are so many things, I'd do with that money. First off, I'd donate half of it, to a Children's Hospital. Then I'd finish school. Buy my brother and his wife, a new home. Help my parents with their business. Fix my home. Things like that. Maybe just maybe, I'd also like a new car. :)



I suppose, it doesn't hurt to dream. Someone has to win the jackpot! I've gotten my share of the tickets. And have my fingers crossed. You just never know, what might happen. And well, maybe something good will come out of the money I just spent! ♥

Let It Be

Recently, I feel like many of my posts, have been "heavy." My heart has been heavy. Broken. My soul, has been in need of repair. I've been carrying so much! And need to just breathe.

Much of it, has been because of my brother. Who just makes me feel so uneasy. He rubs me, the wrong way. I can't trust him. He's just so sly. Doing the worst things, under the radar. And no one else, really seems to bring it up. But it bothers me. So much!

In so many ways, he's destroyed our family. He's still doing it. Making life miserable, for so many! And I'm not sure, what I should do. But it bothers me. It bothers me, that he steals from everyone. That he lies. That he makes a fool, out of people. Then hides from it. Doesn't own up, to the things that he does.

It bothers me, that he hurts the people that I love, so much! That he makes up excuses for it. That he brings his problems, to the rest of us. Expecting us, to make them go away. He's just evil. And I don't know what to do about it. I hate to bring it up here. But it's been on my mind. And it needs to get out!

And then, I've been missing so many people. That have gone before me. To meet our Maker. Really missing our time together. The things we shared. Time that we shared. Just being together. I've been so emotional lately!

Also, I've been so worried about my Dad. Hoping that his health improves. That things get easier for him. And my Mom. I just worry a lot, about the 2 of them. I wish that I could do more for them. Carry more of the burdens. Make things better, and easier, for them.



But I know, that I can't really, do much more. I do a lot already. I ALWAYS put my family first. I've sacrificed so much for them. But at some point, we all need to carry our own burdens. We all have our crosses to bare. The hardships, that we need to deal with. On our own. I know this. But it's still hard!

I know, that I can't change things. That I can't make everyone's pain go away. Even if I try. I know that sometimes, you just need to "Let It Be." God knows the "Master Plan." He knows why we must "suffer." Why we have certain crosses to bare. Why some people "get away with it," while others have to "face" their problems!

Sometimes, we have to go though "rough" patches. To value the good times. I know this. In my brain, I know this. But in my heart, I wish I could make all those tough things, go away. Sometimes, we just need to learn that we need to "Let It Be."

Because there is no changing life. Sometimes things, just need to work themselves out. And sometimes, we need to let go of certain things. And certain people. That can be the hardest. But I'm learning how to do it.

"Let It Be." If it was meant to be, it will work itself out. But we can't sit here, and stress ourselves out, about everything. I know this. But I need to start really believing it! Sometimes, we just can't fix things. Sometimes people don't want to change. And sometimes, we just need to go live our lives. Without worrying about the world. I'm learning how to just "Let It Be." ♥

I Miss Him So!

The last few days, have been rather emotional. I'm not going to lie. I've been trying to keep it together. More because I know that My Guy needed to focus on work. But today, it all seems to be bubbling over the top.

Saturday was my Dad's birthday. I got to have dinner with my parents, on Friday night. It was nice. To just enjoy some time together. To see and hear, a wonderful Mariachi. It was quick, but much needed. Since my Dad got sick in December 2010, I've really cherished every moment with him.

On top of that, my cousin had her baby girl. Early Monday morning. And now, they are a little worried about her health. So they are running a few tests. Please keep them in your prayers. We'd really appreciate that. And honestly, I can't wait to meet, the new sweet baby.

But honestly, I think what's bothering me most is, my Uncle. Sunday marked seven years, since his passing. He was my best friend. ALWAYS had me laughing. We did so much together. He taught me so much. Over the years, he went from being my Uncle, to my best friend.



I still remember, the night that I got the news. I had been away. Teaching a music conference at Disney World. That night, we had performed. And had this AMAZING and fun dinner with friends. It had been a good night. :)

Then I realized, that my phone was in my violin case. I had 20+ missed calls. When I went through them, they were all from my parents. I worried. Immediately, I wondered how my Dad was. I thought about it. It was almost 1AM. Which meant, close to 11PM at my parents' house.

But I couldn't wait anymore. I needed to know what was going on. I found a small room, and sat down. I made the call. And I immediately knew, that something was wrong. My Dad's voice was shaking. He told me, that my Uncle had past away, in his sleep.

This was so shocking! He had been in the hospital. For something completely unrelated, to what he past away from. My parents had just seen him. Right before he was released, from the hospital. They had joked around. Because it was my Dad's birthday.

But when he went home, it was just his time. I remember, not knowing what to do. Being across the country. Obligated to this job. My friends rallied around me. Assured me, that they could handle the next few days. And that they'd get me home.

At the time, a friend was living with me. So I called her. In the middle of the night. And she packed a bag for me. Made sure that my car was full of gas. While this guy got me a plane ticket home.

I flew home. Had another friend, pick me up from the airport. Drove me, the hour, to my home. And I drove, for the next 3 hours. Hoping, that I'd make it in time for the service.

My cousin broke my heart. She was devastated! Kept telling me, that she should have been better to him. That I knew her pain. Because I was so close to him. I didn't know what to say. Or do. I was numb.

We prayed. People talked about my Uncle. I could see him from afar. But I didn't have the guts, to go up to his casket. We went back to my parents' house. Knowing that the next morning, we'd say our final goodbyes.

I spent that night writing. Writing a letter to my Uncle. This amazing man. That ALWAYS put others before himself. With this GIANT heart. Made of gold. I cried. For the first time, I was alone with my thoughts. And it finally hit me. He was gone.

The next morning, I got up early. Got dressed. I'd be playing for the funeral. And I wasn't sure, just how I was going to do it. I told my parents, that I'd meet them at the church. And I left.

Quietly, I made my way into the church. Violin in one hand. My letter in the other. And I walked down that aisle, to my Uncle. Where I said my final goodbye. Placed my letter in his casket. And realized for the first time, this would be the last time I'd see him.

It pulled at my heart. The following 2 hours, rushed by. I didn't feel like, I was really there. More of floating above, the services. I remember leaving the church, for the cemetery. I remember seeing the casket go down. The dirt covering it up. I remember, going to my aunt's house. Changing my clothes. Saying my goodbyes.

I drove 3 hours to my home. Had a friend drive me, another hour to the airport. And then, took a plane ride back to Florida. I'm still not sure, how I managed the next week. But I did.

Since that day, I've felt this emptiness in my heart. A place that I'm positive, will always be empty. With each passing year, it gets harder. I know that it should get easier. But for me, it gets harder. Maybe because I miss my Uncle so much.

Or maybe because, I'm remembering less and less about him. On a recent trip home, I stopped, to visit his grave. And my Auntie's grave. I feel a sense of peace, when I'm near them. Of being "whole" again. Knowing that we're close, to one another.

I hope, that I never forget, the important things. What made my Uncle, well my Uncle. His generosity. His caring heart. His great sense of humor! I want to pass on his memory. To the generations, that didn't get to meet him. I want for people, to be inspired by him. To know, that he made the world, a truly better place! ♥

Perfect!

Well, I was browsing Pinterest, looking for some Valentine's Day ideas. You know, something fun and unexpected. I have lots of little girls, to make presents for. And some decorations to attempt. But that's not what caught my eye. Nope! I got lost in the "Land of Sweets!" That's when I came across these pictures!



Valentine's Day Owls! Oh my goodness! These are the cutest little sugar cookies. Perfect for my Mom. A HUGE fan, and collector of owls. Oh, I want to try and make these. :)



Come on. These are just the cutest cookies, that I've ever seen! They remind me so much of my Mom. Who is not only an owl fan. But a HUGE fan of sweets. :) Yes, this is going to be my next adventure. So my Mom can have a fun treat on Valentine's Day! ♥

Creating Memories

This year, my Mom and I, have really tried, to pull our family together. Since my Dad's medical emergency last year, we've tried to make things special for him. Bring our family together. And I think, we succeeded in that!

Although, My Guy and I had already decided to spend the holiday alone, I knew I had to be with family. My Mom and I talked about it. And we decided on Christmas Eve. For a lot of reasons. One being the weather. And my Dad not really being able to go out. It's been snowing. And so cold! We didn't want to risk, him getting hurt.

I started calling up family. And my Mom and I, got to cooking. I baked for days. Tamales, rellenos, and empanaditas were made. I wrapped presents every single night, for 2 weeks! All that hard work, really paid off. And I've never been happier!



The holidays are such a special time. A time for all of us, to enjoy family and friends. To teach family traditions. And make new memories. Just like Thanksgiving, my parents' house was so full of people. And love! Not everyone made it. That's unfortunate. But a reality in our family.

My older brother came for about 5 minutes, as everyone was leaving. Late in the evening. My second youngest brother, and his family didn't make it. They didn't tell us, until that night, that they didn't have a ride. He lives about 30 minutes out of town. None of my sisters came. And well, we never expected my youngest brother. One of my nieces also had plans. And my younger nieces and their mom, don't celebrate until January. I don't know...

But we had tons of people over. I spent lots of time with the kiddos. Watching a silly Christmas movie, opening presents, and playing games. Of course, we sat and talked. And you know what, those little ones are so special. Carry so much in their little hearts. And make their auntie's heart just break!

There was lots of chatting. And laughing. Making new memories. Remembering our past. And Thanking God for our Daddy. Prayers were said. The real Christmas story was told. We placed baby Jesus in his bed. And Thanked God for our loved ones.

It's been years, since my parents hosted the holidays. Thanksgiving and Christmas...in the same year. We did it a lot, when I was really young. But the family grew apart. This year, was just a glimpse, of those special days. Of a time, when life felt so special.

I have to say this, it was a lot of hard work. To prepare everything. But, it was so well worth it! At the end of the night, both of my parents thanked me. And I was taken aback. Me? Why? All I did, was help them.

The last year, endless health issues, and tough times...really have made me think. Life is worth so much more! Time to set aside our issues. Time to love with everything we have. Time to get back, to what is important. I wouldn't trade these memories, for anything in the world. It was such an amazing holiday! ♥

The Day My Life Changed...

I didn't realize, that a year ago, my entire life would change. One year ago, my Dad got sick. My Mom called me that morning, and I rushed home. That 3 hour drive, seemed to take forever! Thank God, I had this guy with me.

I immediately knew, something was wrong. This wasn't the "usual" situation. And by that night, we were at the hospital. Unsure of what our future held. My Dad looked horrible. We became the priority case. And immediately, we were in ICU. We spent the next week or so, by my Daddy's bedside. Watching him. Praying for him. Taking care of him.

Christmas came and went. New Year's quickly followed. And soon we were home. My Dad was weak. But alive. And home. It took us days, to unwrap the few gifts that we had bought. Our family is totally a "Shopping Procrastination Family." My Mom and I quickly shopped the sales. Bought gifts for the kids. Bought food and essentials. And spent the next few weeks, hosting family. And taking care of my Daddy.

Over the last year, we've all adjusted. My Dad gets so frustrated with himself. With the fact that he can't do the things he used to do. My Mom and I, have become experts in Health Care. We now see our family doctor once a month. Take semi-monthly trips to the pharmacy. All of that stuff.

My Mom has adjusted the most. Other than my Dad. She had to learn lots of things. How to check my Dad's blood. How to give him a shot. My Dad had to learn how to eat differently. There were lot of changes to their daily life.

Nowadays, my Dad drives less. He naps more. His energy is maybe 1/2 of what it was a year ago. His balance is off, most days. There are more pills. Lots more insurance. And calls to companies. Lots of patients. Lots of time to get places.

There are also those weeks, when my Dad is just out of it. When he doesn't feel right. And just wants to sleep. When he is feeling horrible. When we need to really watch over him, and nurse him. When he feels depressed, and moody. The times when I try to be there. When I pray the most.

A year ago, my Dad would drop us off at the Mall. Walk around a few times, before sitting down, to wait for my Mom and I, to finish shopping. These days, he has a Handicap Parking Sticker. One of us has to walk him in. And find him a place to sit. On a good day, I can convince him, to walk around a store, once. Before he gets completely exhausted!

There have been falls. There have been prescription changes. New treatments. And lots and lots of patients! But things are looking up. My Dad's numbers are improving. At a much more rapid pace, than one would expect. Soon, he'll be off his shots. And his medication lowered.

But there have definitely been changes. I spend more time, with my parents. More time helping them. More time taking care of everyone. I don't mind. I'm glad to be able to do it. I also have this guy, who makes it all possible!

A year ago, I was pleading with God. Asking for one more year. I needed one more year. It wasn't his time yet. I vowed to take care of my Daddy. To do whatever needed to be done. I begged God. Every night, when everyone would leave, and my Mom would sleep, I'd sit there. Praying for my Daddy. Holding his hand. Encouraging him to fight.

The last year has been tough. My parents own a business. One that doesn't take a break. Ever! One that put more and more responsibilities, on my shoulders. I was more than ready to help out. I've learned much more about the business. Learned, done work, and honestly...just tried to keep up. My Dad was used to getting up and starting his work day at 3AM. These days, he naps from 6AM-8AM. Then again from 10AM-1PM.

But most of all, I've tried to bring my family together. Tried to remind my brothers, we need to be there for our Dad. I wish that I could find my sisters. And encourage them to come back. We need to pull together. Our Dad is not a young guy. He's nearly 80. And he needs us. Honestly, we're lucky to have him. And we should all appreciate, this second chance. We got our Dad back. To love. And make memories with. Thank you God. The last year has meant so much to me! ♥

A Craft Fair and Snowmen

Today, my Mom and I, are selling at our church's Christmas Craft Fair. I'm super excited about this! I've missed lots of the people from church. I've missed crafting. And this has definitely given me an excuse, to stop and craft.

Last night, I even baked a few dozen cupcakes. Made lots of candy! And sampled some of my Mom's cookies. Yum! I wish I had one, right now. Homemade chocolate chip cookies. My favorite!

I haven't been feeling too great lately. We've been traveling a lot. And I'm trying to finish up my semester. But I wanted to add to our stock. And I made a bunch of scarves, hats, and cowls. I even got busy on some amigurumis. But look at these cute snowmen, that I just had to make!



Yes, I made a few sets of snowmen. And they are adorable! This pattern is super easy! I've even sold a few sets already. Secretly, I want to make me a bunch of them! For me, to decorate a bookshelf, in our house.

I'm so excited about today's Craft Fair! We always have a great time. Honestly, we sell to support the church. If we make money, it's always a bonus. My Mom and I usually leave with a few hundred dollars each. But in all honesty, it's about community. Spending time, with people that we know. Making our community a stronger place! ♥