Inspired By Spring

I don't know about you, but around here, the weather has been nuts! We were in sunny Florida, for about 2 weeks. And it wasn't very warm. It didn't feel like Florida at all! Then we come home to the South, and it's freezing!

It makes me want Spring and Summer, more than ever! My Bestie and I, we took to Pinterest over the weekend, for a little inspiration. And I have to say this, I was so inspired by the warm weather outfits! Like this one...

This outfit reminds me a lot of Easter. Can you believe, I'm already talking about Easter? I know! This year is flying by! I'm not complaining though. Spring is my favorite season. I adore everything about it! Spring cleaning, the plants blooming, birds chirping, the clothes, fresh food, holidays, and beautiful colors. Oh ya, my birthday is also in Spring! :)

I've actually been looking for something similar to this outfit. I've got a similar cardigan and jewelry. But I'm searching for a dress like this. Oh, and that bag! I'm a sucker for ruffles, bows, and pretty jewelry. Spring can't come fast enough for this gal! ♥  

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. ♥

Winter is in the Air

I don't know about you, but around here, the temps are starting to cool down. A lot! I'm starting to get into the Christmas spirit. As in, I want to start decorating, wrapping presents, and baking yummy Christmas goodness!!!

I know. It's barely, early November. I just can't help myself. I adore the cold weather. I live for "Holiday Decorating." Oh, and I just can't wait for all the yummy treats!

Yum! I was just thinking of my favorite hot chocolate. I've been making this, for close to 11 years now. I even remember the first time I made it. I burned my hand. Pretty bad. But boy, I didn't stop making this yummy goodness. It was almost too much, for me to bare. But darn, this is some good stuff!!!

How about a little fun treat. As in some "Baby Santa" gear! I have been wanting to make this, since it was posted. I even have the yarn. Darn, I need to just sit down, and get my "Crochet" on!!!

Yes, I'm totally in the holiday mood. I might even pull out the Christmas music. Is anyone else like me? Or am I the only one, counting down the days, until I can decorate. Putting up my decorations in November. And leaving them up, until late January. Yes, this is really a magical time of year! ♥

Watermelon Lemonade

Yesterday, this guy and I, landed in the desert. We raced to find a cool place, to just be. Ate a yummy dinner at PF Chang's. And headed to my home to pick up a few things. 105 degrees outside. Like 130 degrees in my home! Let's just say, it was a quick "in and out" sort of trip.

And because I'm "Under the Weather," this week, we headed home. Almost as soon as I found my PJs, favorite slippers, and a good book. Hello refrigerated air. I LOVE you! In a way, that if we ever had to split our assets, I'd fight for that beautiful machine! Our home, went from triple digits, to 68 glorious degrees, in minutes! :)

But we still needed something to quench our thirst. We had a pretty exciting adventure at my home last night. What was supposed to be 5 minutes, took 2 hours. And when we drove the 10 minutes, to our new "Ranch," well all I could think was, I need something ice cold. And a glorious bath!

My Guy had made an earlier run to the store. Picked us up a few essentials. And then told me about this recipe. Yes, this guy, checks out Gooseberry Patch, from time to time. And all that was on his mind, was this week's Recipe of the Week. Hello watermelon goodness!!!



Watermelon Lemonade

4 c. watermelon, chopped
1 c. sugar
1-1/2 c. lemon juice
6 c. cold water

Place watermelon in a blender; process until smooth and set aside. In a large pitcher, combine sugar and lemon juice; stir until sugar is dissolved. Stir in water. Add watermelon; mix well. Serve very cold; stir well before serving. Makes 8-10 servings.



Let me just say a few things. One, this recipe is super easy! Yes, this man, made it from beginning to end. All I did, was change into some comfy PJs, and meet him on our back patio. Literally, in less than 5 minutes, we had a pitcher of watermelon goodness! Secondly, it says 8-10 servings. The 2 of us, polished off a pitcher, in no time! Lastly, this was perfect, over ice, in a fun cocktail glass. With a super fun straw, and watermelon slice as a garnish. It was love!

Oh, and if you adore an Agua Fresca, this is your drink! I'm actually excited to try it again tonight. With Miss Kimbo and Miss Thea, who will be staying with me. Since this guy, had to leave at 2AM. To make it to work on time. But when I try this today, I'm going to use lime juice, instead of lemon. Should be AMAZING!!! Between, instead of sugar, we used Splenda. And only 1/3 cup. ♥

Surviving the Desert Heat

We left "Wine Country" this morning. Headed straight for the desert. And the minute we landed, the heat slapped us in the face. High noon. The desert. The heat. And all I wanted to do, was find the nearest place with AC!!!

It made me think of the ways, I've survived this heat. Next month, it will be 11 years since I moved, to the desert. With no AC. The temps soared above 100. For days and days at a time! Then for the next few years, I've learned how to "Survive Summer in the Desert." Someone was recently asking me, about this...

And since I'm going to be spending a big chunk of time, in the desert this Summer, I needed to revisit my "Survival Guide." These tips, are great for anyone spending time in the sun. And heat. No matter if it's the desert, or the beach. :)



First, up a good lip balm. I've tried a ton! But year after year, I've come back to Blistex Deep Renewal. Not only is this good for Summer, but all year long! It keeps my regularly dry lips, completely moistorized. Plus, it has 15 SPF. Hello?!?!?! Perfect for Summer!!!



Well, I'm pale as can be. If you see me, it's hard to believe that I'm Hispanic. My entire family, is dark. And they get those glorious tans, all Summer long! Me? Not so much! Neutrogena's Healthy Defense has been my BFF for years! Yup, I've tried expensive products. But this little guy, works wonders!!!

Not only do I use this moisturizer for Summer, I use it all year long! All year!!! SPF 50 is my BFF. I'm telling you, this is perfection in a tube. It's light, but provides protection all day. I have oily skin, and have an issue with most moisturizers and sunblocks. But not with Healthy Defense. I LOVE Neutrogena!!!



Like I said, I've got very pale skin. I can go from "Snow White," to "Red Lobster" is 5 minutes! Growing up in the Southwest, was difficult at times. Even in the shade, I'd burn up. Then spend the next week or 2, nursing a horrible sunburn!

Then I found Neutrogena's Ultra Sheer, SPF 100. Every single day, I use this! There is no funky "Sunblock" scent. Just the clean smell of Neutrogena's products. It dries almost immediately. Not leaving any greasy feeling. Perfect!!!



But for those of us, that like to tackle outdoor fun, or even just exercise...Bull Frog Sport is what you NEED! Back in high school, I was a cheerleader. Literally, we lived outdoors almost all year! In the Southwest, that could mean trouble. But when I found this "Bad Boy," I was "Over the Moon!" Because it protects against both UVA and UVB rays. :)

First of all, this sunblock is water and sweat proof. Believe me, I've tested it many times! It should be no shock, that I run a lot. I also enjoy hiking. Since I was 14 years old, I've used this. And every single time that I have, I've NEVER been burnt! EVER!!! Not even, while doing a crazy yard cleaning marathon! It even works on your "Hair Crack." If you've ever braided your hair in the summer, with a part, you know what I mean. To me, that's the worst sunburn you could ever have!!!



Another secret among Southwesterners, is we change up our deordorant. When those HOT months roll around, we pick up a stonger deordorant. After years and years, of trying everything that is sold...Dove's Clinical Protection is my "go-to."

There are a variety of scents. All very light and fresh. This deordorant keeps you fresh and dry. Believe me, when I say this. There are some days, in the SW when you just sit there, and sweat. For no other reason, then it's 105 degrees. And your body is trying to cool down. You sit there, doing NOTHING, but sweating like NUTS! Let me tell you, this works miracles! :)



And we must protect our eyes! Have you ever gotten sunburn in your eyes? I have. And let me tell you, it's PAINFUL!!! Your eyes just hurt. Eyedrops sting. Closing your eyes burns. Having them open, hurts. So go out and buy yourself some good sunglasses. That protect against UVA and UVB rays. That's so important!!! Critical actually.

Honestly, I've found some really good pairs, and stylish, for around $10. But look for the UVA/UVB sticker. You'd be surprised, that some of those really expensive sunglasses, don't have both UVA/UVB protection. Ya, spending $100+ doesn't guarantee good protection. Just be aware. Funny thing is, I've found some adorable, chic, and fun sunglasses at the "Hunting Store." For $5. With UVA/UVB protection. Just look around. I know some of my friends have found them at Target, the Dollar Tree, or even the bookstore. :)



And a big 'ol floppy hat, is your best friend! Whether you're laying out by the pool, tackling your garden, or just relaxing...this is a MUST! It keeps the sun off your delicate skin, cools you down, and adds a little style. I have one, that my Grandma bought me, almost 10 years ago. I wear it all the time. And I think she spent $10 on it. Oh, and I just seen some cute ones, for under $10 at Wal-Mart.



Water, water, and more water. It's beyond essential!!! I prefer cucumber water. I also bring out the lemon, lime, or orange water in the Summer. Just take some fruit, or cucumbers, and thinly slice them up. Add them to a pitcher of water. And enjoy!!! I think people forget to drink lots of water. Honestly, I drink almost 2 gallons of water a day. It's so important to be hydrated!!!



And ice. I can't say enough about this stuff!!! Sometimes, I even make ice out of lemonade. Or throw in some fruit. It adds lots of fun, and flavor, to your favorite drinks. But honestly, at all times,I've got 25+ lbs of ice in my freezer. :)

There you go. A few things that have helped me, to survive the Summer heat! I also do things like sticking my body sprays and Fix+, in the refrigerator. Helps to refresh with something cool, in the middle of the afternoon. I also place a clean pillowcase in the freezer every morning. Then at night, I slip it over my pillow. So nice to lay on something cool, when the temperatures are lucky to dip into the 70s as a low!

If you have any tips, tricks, or favorite Summertime products, I'd LOVE to hear about them. Or even, your favorite Summertime recipes. Heck, anything fun about Summer! I've got a few months of heat ahead. And I need some new things, to help me get through our 100+ temps! ♥

Little Rain Drops

I've ALWAYS been a big fan of rain. I'm giving the credit to my grandparents. As I spent years and years, with them. For many summers, I'd spend 2 months with them. In the mountains. They had a tin roof. And when the summer rains rolled into the mountains, there was nothing better then sitting on their porch. Listening to the steady rain falling. Watching, as it cleaned the Earth.

I still feel like that. When the rain rolls in, I feel like I'm 5 years old again. Sitting on that front porch. Watching as God cleanses the world. The only way, that really wipes away the filth. I'm drawn to rain. Forget rainy nights. I'll spend hours, just listening to the rain. Feeling a certain "peace" come over me.

Lately, rains have been seldom. Far between. Something that I've craved more and more. I just feel like my own spirit, needs some cleansing. And there is nothing like a good rain, that cleans a person's soul. And since we haven't had rain, I've searched out some rain inspired treats. :)



This rain cloud necklace, is so incredible! It's delicate. Unexpected. And so fun! Now if I could just find the seller...



What about this fun and colorful rain cloud? So fun! Another treat, that I'd LOVE to own! The colorful raindrops, just make me smile!!!



And this precious picture makes me smile! I can't find a source for this one either. :( But this is something, that I can try to replicate. Oh yes! I just need to head out for a canvas. I can't wait, to have a little fun painting like this.

It's funny, how much I like rain, rain clouds, rain drops...anything of that sort! Have you seen anything similar? I'd LOVE to hear all about it! Because I'm so serious, about purchasing some "rain" inspire items. ♥

I LOVE Rain Boots!!!

Around here, it's been raining so much! In fact, I've been dealing with so much rain, I'm speechless. In general, I adore rainy days. Especially rainy nights. :) But when this guy has to work, it's not so good.

I've also realized, when we're on the road, it creates a bit of a problem. One, that a pair of rain boots, would easily fix. Oh rain boots, how I love you! I have a pair. That I bought a few years ago. And I wear them, whenever I garden. That's how much I love them.

But these days, I need some rain boots, you know...to wear in the rain. :) Not the boring ones. Not even the typical yellow ones. But something fun. And unexpected. A pair, that I wouldn't mind wearing to the store. Or out to lunch with friends. Something like these...



How about a pair with painted flowers? I think these are so fun. And girly! Perfect with a casual outfit. Jeans, a t-shirt, a fun jacket. These would complete any outfit, you'd wear to lunch with a friend.



These bows just scream to me!!! I adore how they are basic. But with a feminine twist. Some bows. A little polka dots. I'd definitely buy a pair like this!



My favorites, have to be these flower printed pair. The colors, the flowers, oh the fun!!! I could definitely see these, in our motor home. Traveling the long roads, that we travel every week.

Have you seen some fun rain boots? Something that you just love! Or just have to have. I want a new pair. Like nobody's business. But all I've found in the stores, are your typical rain boots. Loud colors, but not too fun. I've got to keep on hunting. I hope I find a pair soon. For the last few weeks, all we've had is rain! ♥

Rain, Rain, Go Away!

The weather in the Sunshine State is always, and I mean ALWAYS, changing. And pretty quickly. It actually reminds me a lot, of my home state. But, the rain pretty much moved in yesterday. And won't leave! We're ready for a little sunshine. OK, A LOT of sunshine!

The last few days have been a little crazy. My Guy was supposed to work yesterday. But the rain has delayed that. And as of this morning, things are not looking good right now. As much as I LOVE this beautiful state, we're ready to head home. PLEASE RAIN...STOP!!!



Like I said, it rained all afternoon and evening yesterday. And we needed something to fill up our time. We called a couple of friends. But this guy, had already decided to take My Bestie out to dinner. And Brother B, was going to watch Baby C.

What did that leave for My Guy and me to do? Eat an entire pot of food! I made "The Lady & Sons Beef Vegetable Soup." I also baked a big 'ol loaf of crusty bread. We might have also enjoyed some homemade carmel corn, a little cobbler, and some ice cream. Watched 8 hours of Clint Eastwood movies. :) Oh ya! Baby it was a great night. Just a little something we like to do.

Not the way, we had planned our night. But what can you do? Mother Nature has sent us rain. And essentially told us, it's time to slow down. Even for just one night. Honestly, I couldn't think of a better way, to spend my Sunday night. With the man I LOVE. Cuddling, and enjoying some of our favorite treats. ♥

Winter Snow Storm

The snow magically started to fall, late Sunday night. Quietly, but quickly. I sat watching it. Blanketing the earth. Bringing a calm with it. For a very long time, I've enjoyed watching snow fall. At night. When all the world seems so calm and peaceful.



Monday turned into one of those days. When everything stays closed. Hardly anyone takes to the roads. My Guy and I decide to stay in bed, order some breakfast, and watch a stack of movies. It was a fun day. When nothing got done. Except a lot of cuddling!

I was pretty sure, that life would return to normal, on Tuesday. There were still lots of delays. Almost every road, leading out of town, was closed. My parents were back to work. We were scheduled to look at homes. This whole staying in a hotel, every time we come to my hometown, is getting a little old. I miss cooking. My Guy misses his own space.

We ended up getting almost nothing done, Tuesday or Wednesday. The main highway, to my home, was closed. Little by little, it was opening up. But in the southern part of my home state, they're just not prepared for big storms. So the roads were at the mercy of "Mother Nature." I figured, things would be "A OK" by today...

I was supposed to meet a friend today. And it just didn't happen. The roads were open for the first 80 miles. And the last 50. But everything in between, was closed. Boo! And my cellphone coverage, is almost non-existent. What is up with that?

After talking to My Guy, we decided not to chance it. We didn't want to get stuck in some small town, with no hotel room. Or stuck on the side of the highway. Or get in an accident. And all I could think about, was that dear couple, who got stuck in the snow, last weekend. Ultimately, it was a tragic story. One that we didn't want to repeat.

Although, I LOVE the snow. It really has put a damper on my plans. Our Realtor wouldn't venture out, until today. I didn't get to meet with my friend. Heck, I still haven't talked to her! We haven't made it to the cabin yet. But on the bright side, we got a lot of Christmas shopping done! Some decorations made. And I've spent lots of time, cuddling with my Love! ♥