New Year Resolution...

As the night falls and the count down begins, I start thinking about the wonder of the coming year and all the possibilities, what ifs and mights. I know one thing's for sure, I don't want to make a mistake and promise something that I know, I won't keep like loosing a gazillion pounds or like eating no carbs!! Instead, I want to be a better version of myself in 2013. That's it simple enough! I want to wake up being thankful for all my blessings each and every day! And If I happen to lose weight in the process.....
hallelujah!!

My kitchen survived

All the cooking, baking, counter-top pounding, kids playing, stove top spills, refrigerator space, counter-top space,oven space, left-overs, more left-overs, sticky floors, wine spills, space for cookies, Christmas paper here and there, mexican chalupa beans on floor, dish washing, pot & pans washing, back door left opened, flies coming in, messy table, un-claimed soda's on counter, un-claimed plates outside, half eaten cookies, half bottled waters on counter, purses, cameras, presents, on counter, full trash bags, over filled out-door trash bin, ..... etc.....

I would not have changed it for the world!.... But, I am happy it's back to normal!!

Valley Lemon surprise.

After Christmas shopping last night, I get home and my husband shows me this! I got so excited. You see, this is a Valley lemon ~ not just any lemon, it's a "Valley lemon" they are so good! They are a cross between a lemon and an orange perfect for tea! They are my favorite!! I remember peeling, eating, and saving the seeds as I was coming in, I stuck the seeds in this pot. Now look! I can't wait for it to become a tree! I will definitely do a follow up post!

Awaiting Cold Front.

As I sit here and write this post from my bedroom, I have my both windows open fresh air is blowing in, it is in the low 80's here in South Texas! We are anxiously waiting on a "Cold front" that will bring temperatures way down to the 60s. Our air-conditioner broke over the week-end and we are relieved that it happened in December and not in August..

As I look out, I see the sun shinning.

The butterflies playing..

Plants putting on a show for all to see.

Sometimes thinking spring is here.

My perky lobelia plant loves to steal the spotlight.

While my porterweed bloom patiently waits for another hummingbird.

Christmas Tree Project.

Here is a fun and easy project!

All you need is...  I call it lattice wood. We got ours pre-cut at Lowe's and some wood glue..

Green spray paint..

Lights and a star.

I am adding more lights in-between, I was just so excited I had to share..

Candyland

Christmas Mantel

Hooray I finished!! This Mantel was fun to do, up until I burned a nest while taking pictures. Just as I was starting to smell burn my husband yelled "Fire" a nest that was too close to the votive candle caught fire and was burning. I won't be turning these candles on any more...

This was easy to do! Thank heavens!! I used my old faithful garland stuck some Dollar Tree picks, Cardinals and votives. Voilà magic!!... I love when things just come together!..

I love this picture don't you?

Preparing for Advent

With the hustle and bustle of shopping, decorating our homes, and parties to go to, we often forget the real reason for the season. This year during Advent, I plan on not doing any shopping on Sundays no matter what! I want to take this day in, relax and reflect on the days scripture readings and finally light our candle at dinner time.
Also, as a special observance of Advent, I am going to visit the Blessed Sacrament each Monday.
And thirdly I am going to confession. I always put off going to confession, but I always find myself so renewed when I finally do it.

Dear God, thank you for this season of Advent that helps us to prepare for the coming of Christ at Christmas. As we read the Bible and light a candle, may excitement for Christ’s coming burn in our hearts. Amen