DONE

DONE!

My list is complete!

Only thing to do is enjoy the Holiday.

I am so excited that I have only 2 more days left of work!!

For the 1st time ever I have off from 12/24-1/2!!!

I wish everyone one a Happy Holiday!!

Love, Wendy



Christmas Decorations

Christmas Decorations 2011!!!

I focus on my dining room. It's the center of my house and during the holidays the most used room. We can't put our tree in the living room (I wish every year we can) due to we heat our home with a wood stove and it gets too hot and dry to have a tree in the room for month.

Dining Room:

On my hutch in the dining room I decorate it every season/holiday. I love the look of my hutch it's country and my house is an old farm house so it fits in great. I put some pine and berry garland and a couple snow men figurines (should have taken close up picture) and one of my favorite finds... The tree in the corner!

Next to the hutch is a butter churn and I filled that with poinsettia's and greenery that looks like it has snow on it.





Next is my dining room table. I found this great wooden box and filled it with greenery and berries. I also added pine cones and metal stars and the finishing touch is my new addition of metal snow flakes.





My reindeer! This was a gift from my grandma. She made this over 40 years ago! She was a home maker and for extra money she made ALL type of wood working projects. I was so honored for her to give this to me. I will cherish this and one day pass it one to my children.

Last but NOT least the tree! This is also in the dining room. We get a real tree every year. When my Great Grandpa was a live he owned a Christmas Tree farm. I just can't bring myself to buying a fake tree. I love the excitement of searching for the right tree. Which takes me forever but not this year we pulled in and this was the first tree I saw.

Living Room:

In my living room I have several items on my coffee table and hanging from my curtain rods but this is my favorite. I love Santa items. I saw this last year and had to have it. It's not the traditional Santa and that's why I love it.



Do you have favorite decorations???

WI # 7/ Christmas checklist

WI #7

-/+ 0

I am pleased. My goal is to stay the same until the New Year.

I have lost 10 pounds and I couldn't be more excited.

I do feel I would like to lose 10 more

but I also know it's a busy time of year and I want to maintain what I have lost.

on a another note.

I am almost ready for Christmas!!

list of things to finish

1. Christmas shopping (just a few things to pick up) I will finish tonight!
2. Finish wrapping what I buy tonight (everything else wrapped and under the tree)
3. Make peanut brittle and chocolate chip cookie dough truffles
4. Take pictures of Christmas decorations ans post them

Not bad......

My plan is to be done by Wednesday. I want to relax and enjoy the Holiday!

Christmas cookies

Here are some of my cookies. My dad and I baked all day yesterday. I made up a tray to send in with my husband.

Top: Mint sandwich cookies (Christmas in your mouth), oatmeal with Cinnamon chips

Middle: chocolate bites with peanut butter frosting

bottom: Cinnamon crisp

We also made:

walnut cookie, walnut fingers

What a good day!

December Birch Box

December Birchbox

Frolic & Fancy

L'Oreal Professionnel, Harvey Price, Recharge E Boost, Jouer, Benefit Cosmetics, Show Stoppers



L'Oreal Professionel- Mythic Oil- Bring home the salon with this lightweight oil, which boost shine and beats frizz before and after styling. I used this today before I dried my hair. My hair is shiny and feels great.

Harvey Price-Ageless- Most scents just smell pretty, but this one is designed to make you smell more youthful-high tech, no? I don't know about making me smell young but it is nice. I sprayed some last night and I liked it but when I use it again I will only spray once.

ReCharge EBoost- Orange natural Energy Boost- Bounce back post-party with this tangy citrus energy booster, packed with mega-dose of nutrients.

Jouer- Moisturizing Lip Gloss in Birchbox pink- We teamed up with one of our favorite brands to create this custom fuchsia shade. Apply one coat for semi-shear pigment, or build it for a hot pink pout. I have used this ALL day. I only do the one coat for work and it's a nice shear shade.

Benefit Cosmetics- The POREfessional- Camouflage visible pores with this velvety face primer. The translucent formula works wonders beneath makeup. I also used this today and it is velvety. I used it under my foundation but can be use over as well.

Show Stoppers- Designer fashion tape- celeb stylists swear by these double-sided tape strips, which will ensure that your party dress stays perfectly in place. I don't know when I will use this but I will keep it on hand.

Have you tried Birchbox yet??

tough day......

it has been a tough day.

I am hungry.... I smell chips and salsa in the next office over (my favorite) and I want them!!

I ate a great breakfast & snack and I still have an hour before my lunch....

I am going to have another snack to hold me over with  nice HOT cup of tea....

I also feel very antsy i don't know why but it's annoying me...

I guess this post is me complaining...

A couple positive notes:

it's Wednesday

We moved offices at work. I am in a great location and very excited about the move.

Friday I only work until 2pm!

WI # 6

-1LBS!!!
total loss -10LBS
1st goal reached!!!


I started this post last week knowing I was only 1 pound away from my first goal I wanted to start thinking about my next set of goals.



1. start incorporate exercising - I need to do this. I have an elliptical (I call her Ellie) and I need/want to start this. My plan is to start with 15 minutes 3 times a week and work my way up to 30 minutes 5 times a week. I get so board with any exercise. I uploaded some great new song on my ipod for so great motivation.

2. Track my food everyday

3. Next WL goal -5 LBS
4. December is a tough month: I will be starting my cookie baking for the season and I keep putting it off. I love Christmas cookies. My dad and I set a side one day before Christmas and bake ALL day long!!! We make ALL kinds of cookies. We only make special cookies at Christmas. I always send more home with my dad then I keep. Of course going out for holiday parties and Christmas and new Years Meals.
How I will manage the Holiday this year is trying little samples of things I don't get all the time and enjoying friends, family and the hard work that goes into make this a special time of year. I will also know that if I gain it's OK ;)

I will be posting this week:
  December Birch Box
Christmas Decorations
Christmas Cookies

WI #5

WI # 5

how the time flies....

This week as every week bring different challenges

but I did track my food 75%, drank ALL my water

and

lost 1 pound

total loss 9 pounds.

1 lbs away from my first goal of 10 pounds.

5 weeks ago I started this journey to eat healthier than I was and it is working.

I love that I am down 9 pounds.

I am starting to think about what my next goal is....

Weekend update

Good weekend.

 Friday: (out of work @ 2:30) ran some errands, went to Christmas Party

Saturday: up bright and early- went to Hobby Lobby, TJ Maxx, Michael's and home by 2 pm!!!

I did take a nice long nap once I got home

Sunday: made breakfast, lazy day until I started to rearrange my dining room and started & finished decorations for Christmas!  We go and get the tree on Wednesday. The tree always takes me the longest. I like to make sure all the lights are just right and ribbon lays just so. 

I also did ALL my Christmas cards. I found mine at Hobby Lobby this year and they are very different then what I normally would do. Most year I make my own but I saw these and loved them (will post a picture), took inventory of gifts I have purchased

wrapped up the day day by making dinner and doing dishes and one final vacuum.

This week plans:

Monday-grocery store

Tuesday- WI #5, work late, get home and enjoy some time before my husband gets home (love him to death but some times a girl just needs to time to do girly things)

Wednesday- TREE time. We get a fresh cut every year and I don't think I could ever do a fake ( I may have a couple fake purses but don't think I can do it for my tree). Put lights and ornaments.

Thursday- out to eat with some great friends. Finish up tree (ribbon and star)

Friday- out of work @ 2 !!! Take pictures of decorations and post them.

Are you ready for Christmas??



WW WI week 4

Hard to believe it's my 4th WI

Big week. Thanksgiving week was rough. I did great at my house on Thanksgiving day but Saturday for 2nd Thanksgiving was not as successful :(.

I ate what I wanted, enjoyed every bite, I wasn't stuffed but ate more snack/treats then I planned.

I know that if I wasn't on WW I would have thrown in the towel and told myself I would start over on Monday instead I took control and stayed on track the next meal :)

I also slacked on tracking this week as well.

I am proud that I didn't go crazy and that I enjoyed the Holiday

WI #4 -1 LBS

total loss 8 LBS

Christmas is coming.....

I've been thinking a couple gift ideas for Christmas. I always find it hard to tell anyone what I would like. I would rather not get anything but I guess my Husband doens't agree.

Here are a couple things I would like:

1. Food processor- I have a mini 2 cup food processor now which works great for quick and easy things. I would be able to do so much more with a larger one.

 I-Pod speakers- I love having some kind of back ground noise in the house when I'm a lone. This weekend I used my ear buds but then I couldn't here when my husband came in the house and nearly had a heart attack. So this would be a life saving gift.

UGGS- I have 2 pair already. I own the tall Ugg I think I would like the minis for a slip on as well.

Rylans- How cute! I have a pair that are similar but these look like they would be easier to slip on.. 

Now for my dream wish list:

Urban Decay Naked palette- I love the colors!!! I hear UD is the best in make-up. It goes on nice and stays all day. But I don't know if I can spend $48 on eye shadow????

I-Pad- How I would love this. We currently use a 5 year old lap top which does a good job but this is so fast and handy.

What's on your list?????



What a week....

WOW it's was a great week...

I had off on Wednesday!!! I got all my baking and prep work done for Thursday.

Thursday was great. Watching the Macy's parade, dog show and flipping through ads (not that i go shopping but it gives you good ideas). All the food was timed perfect.  Family and friends shared stories and enjoyed each other company.

Friday I worked :(

Saturday I baked a little more and then we headed for Thanksgiving 2.0

Great times, friends and food again.....

We stayed out til 1 am

Sunday- PJ day!!!!!! Did some online shopping and enjoyed the weather it's been in the 60's...

we have a couple more days of this great weather.

This week I plan to start decorating the house. I can't wait...

WI #3

Weigh in # 3

This week was different than my last 2 weeks

The weekends are my weakness

I eat when I get board. The last couple months have been so busy & I have been watching how much I eat and why I'm eating but this weekend was different....

My husband was gone from 6 am-8 pm on Saturday and 6 am-6 pm on Sunday 

so I was alone

I had a great plan. I got up ate a healthy filling breakfast and was out the door to  run ALL my errands. I was tried when I got home. I ate a great lunch and started to set-up for Thanksgiving to make sure I have everything made a great dinner & did my usual cleaning

Sunday was a different story I felt hungry ALL day long. I new I had a house warming Sunday afternoon so I was trying to save my points knowing that most of the food was not going to be low/medium points. I did eat 8 points before the party and did eat well at the party. I did have a couple wings, cookies but loaded up on veggies.

I have learned on WW that the points they assign you are the right amount of points. You will loose if you eat the point given to you.

This week I ate ALL my points and lost

2 LBS!!!

Total loss 7 LBS

Plan for this week:

Eat healthy everyday and make sure I eat things I don't eat everyday (pecan bars, stuffing) in moderation.

I will do great!!!

Thanksgiving week

I love every holiday

Thanksgiving holds a special place in my heart

Everyone gathers at my house and we have a good meal, drinks and spending time together

the girls come over early and talk, make food and enjoy each other company. Once the boys arrive from the busy day of hunting we all gather to share a great meal.

Thanksgiving is a great time to stop and remember what is important.

My thoughts are with everyone that had a loss this year for any reason. I also feel that this has been a wonderful year for so many and I think of them.

Thanksgiving week:

Monday- don't forget to take your turkey out

Tuesday-

Wednesday- bake breads, pecan bars, apple sauce, clean house

Thursday- prepare all foods:

Turkey, mashed potatoes, sweet pototoes, stuffing, green beans, corn,

(I'm sure I am leaving something out...)

Enjoy your families!!

WI #2

WI # 2

-1lbs!!! Total 5 lbs

Did well this week. I went out of town to my grandma's (cookies, pies, treats) and did well. I did have a couple of cookies ans a slice of pie. My goal is to eat what I want in a healthy portion.

It's hard to believe it is week 3 already.

Once you start it easy to follow.

Thanksgiving!!!

Love Thanksgiving. Getting together with family and friends and I get to cook & bake a HUGE meal.

I host Thanksgiving every year and we have 15-20 people and I love it!!!!



Blogs

Blog I enjoy:

The small things Blog 

Kate does great hair tutorials. I have used several, curling your hair with a straight iron, cutting your own bangs & a couple up dos. Check her out.

Plain Chicken

Steph has AMAZING recipes. I have made several and plan to make more. Great easy ideas and you can make adjustment to your liking.

Weight Watchers.com

Great tool to help in weight loss. You have to be a member but the tools they offer are great. Food journal, weight tracker, tips, ideas

I visit all of these everyday. They are great people and the ideas and helpful hint are wonderful. I do look at several more I thought ever month I would feature some more.

Birch box!!!!!!

My first Birchbox came yesterday!!!

It was so nicely wrapped. it was hard not to rip it open.

1. Anastasia Beverly hills (black box on right): HydraFull Gloss in Sugar Pink

give the gift of volume and shine with this high-wattage gloss

I tried this right a way & this morning. Liking it. it's not tacky and it's a nice light pink

2. BORGHESE Fango Brillante Brightening Mud (orange tube):

Sourced from Tuscany's miner-rich hills, this Italian mud treatment brightens and tones shin on face and body

I will be trying this soon.....

3. Guerlain (black card on right): Shalimar Parfum Initial

A new take on Guerlain's iconic floral scent, with notes of rose, jasmine and Iris

Tried this last night, didn't like it.

4. J.R. Watkins (metal tin in front): Foot repair salve

Rough skin is no match for this restorative balm. The refreshing scent perks up tired tootsies

Used this last night. I goes on so nice and I put my socks right back on so it stayed on all night. Feet in good shape this morning. I will be using this all winter long.

5. Two Paper Dolls (circle's with blue letters) Ampersand Coasters

Our favorite letterpress studio adds a hip, playful touch to everything they do, from note cards to coasters.

coaster is a coaster, but I like the design

WW week 2

WW week 2

Week 1 was good. I tracked my food everyday. Everything I ate & drank.

I felt good about my decisions this week.

I didn't limit any food

I tried new foods

Learning about the Points Plus program.

WI: -4lbs

Up coming week....

Monday- Early meeting at work, grocery store
Tuesday- Work Late, 1st weigh in with WW
Wednesday- help restock fire wood
Thursday- pack for weekend, make list for Outlet Mall
Friday- out early from work, cook turkey on grill, make meals for Husband for weekend
Saturday/Sunday- Grandma's!!!!!!!!

Looking forward to my Birchbox arriving!!! First one and I can't wait to see what samples I get. I will post as soon as I get it.

Feel great about WW! I have been on track all week. To tell you the truth some days I have a hard time getting to my points. But, I know that You have to follow the rules to be successful. Loving that the new plan allows you to have more fruits with out using up your points. It's about eating whole natural foods.

I'll let you know how my weigh in goes tomorrow!!!!

Wendy

Weekend wrap up

Things I did this weekend:

• Enjoyed dinner at Mad Moose Friday night with some great friends. It's a BBQ place that is great. They slow cook all the pork and have a great pulled pork platter. They serve the BBQ with the best corn pancakes! I am not a fan of corn pancakes but I love Mad Moose! 
• Saturday was a relaxing day.....I did things around the house. Gathered some home decor that I am giving my good friend since she lost everything in the Flooding in September. Good news for her they are closing on a new home this week!!!!!
• Watched COPS!!!! New episode! 
• Had a great breakfast with my husband. I made sausage, eggs and english muffins. 
• Finalized plans with my dad for this coming up weekend. We are going to visit my grandma. Both of us a really excited. We don't get the chance to go at the same time. So we have great plans!!!! 
• Study- I have a several insurance licenses and every couple years I have to take a test to keep my license current. It something I do everyday but I have to know the laws and that's not something I deal with all the time. Also, I am not a good test taker........
• Raked leaves...
• Relaxing for the rest of the night!!!

WW

WW

(weight watchers)

I joined WW

again....

I am determined, excited and ready to take control

Start date 11/1/11

Goals:

 10 pounds

 eat healthy/drink water

 walk 3 times a week

Plan:

use WW online

journal food/drink

make weekly menu

Rewards:

(other than being healthier)

10 pounds-new hair product (wanting to try it for a while)

This is not my first time with WW. It is a great program and I kick myself for not sticking with it. This weekend was my OMG moment that I had worked so hard to loose 50 pounds and I have put most of it back on. I get so angry that I can't be in control of this part of my life.

every week I am setting goals (some goals will stay the same every week)

this weeks goals:

1. take before photo

2. Track what I eat everyday

3. Plan the best weight-tracking strategy

4. Build up my favorites (WW site/foods I eat on a regular basis)

5. Clean out fridge/cupboards and fill with healthy foods

6. Meal plan (B,L,D,S) for week

Over a month.......

It's been over a month since I have posted anything....

what has happened in a month....

A  LOT!!!

•  I live in NY and on 9/6/11 we had massive flooding. Many have lost everything and more are trying to rebuild their homes and lives.
•  I work for insurance so my lie has/still is helping people with claims and trying to get help with FEMA
•  My wife duties have been put on a back burner and my husband has been great helping me get things done. My husband the great man that he is told me he is treating my to a spa day!! I just need to find time and go!
•  We have been helping dear friends that have lost EVERYTHING. They only have the clothes that they were wearing the day of.
•  I was able to go to Ohio and visit my home girls. They know how to welcome a girl. We ate out, shopped, watch movies and then shopped some more!! I love them so much.
• We hosted a dinner party last week and it was so much fun! It took my mind off of work and I got to visit with great friends.

Things I am looking forward to:

• I am trying birchbox you sign up monthly or annually and you get a sample box a beauty products on the 10th of the month!! I can't wait. I have seen sample of some of the boxes and they are great!
• My Dad's, husbands and father-in-laws birthday's are in the next couple weeks and we always go out together to celebrate!!
• My husband's birthday is Halloween and we have a party every year. We have so much fun. I also already bought and wrapped his present!!!
• I bought a great necklace from Esty shop and it should be here soon.
• The Holidays are right around the corner!!! I can't wait to decorate, bake, cook, have family and friends over.

Post to come:

Birch box goodies (11/10)

recipes (Chocolate chip cookie dough truffles)

Fall decorations

My Philosophy

Philosophy-

I love this company. I have used so many of the products and I thought I would share some of my favorites:

Eyeshadow Color of Grace

Eye shadows: I have both heaven and earth & not sure what the other is called (I think it's discontinued) 

they are a soft shimmer shear that work so well with each other. I do admit that I use H&E more. I always stick with browns but the pink & white and great for a HOT summer day for a light fresh look.



Kiss of hope

 Kiss of Hope provides a touch of color and I nice protective coat on my lips. I use this everyday to refresh me lips.

State of Grace

Fragrance!!!! I haven't come across I scent I don't like. All are soft and fresh. I can never smell it on me but I get so many complements of how good I smell ;)  I just saw yesterday that QVC has the newest scent called "you are divine"  (only art QVC)

Purity

Cleanser/moisture- All products I have tried have been great. This is a staple must have. Who's it for??? All skin types!!! 

Supernatural

I would say that this is my favorite product from Philosophy. I haven't use liquid foundation in years. It's easy to apply and give an even glow to your face. I thought about other powder products but you have to tap, swirl and use brushes and apply several layers this you just rub on your face. You can't go wrong.

Summer Grace

This is a new scent that I would LOVE to smell. Philosophy has just come out with new product and I can't wait to try some. Don't forget to look at the body washes & lotions!!

Oh wait I'll be at SEPHORA in 8 days!!!

I have already started a wish list.

From Dior to Urban Decay and soooo many more.

If you have any questions on any of Philosophy let me know!

I get mine from several places:

 QVC.com

Sephora.com

Philosophy.com

Catch up/Thoughts

Thoughts:

• my good friend had her baby boy on Sunday! All are healthy and happy!
• I was invited to go to a Beach Boys concert. (It was a package prize). We enjoyed a limo ride, meal @ Mad Moose Grill and a meet and greet!! I had a blast.
• About the Limo ride.....We had been waiting for 15 minutes decided to call and found out someone else called and changed the reservation!! The nerve! It was all worked out and now we have a funny story to tell. If anyone knows a Ed Wanga tell him jokes on him.
• I just noticed that in September I only work 1 full week!! due to Labor day and taking a trip the next week. I have some nice loooong weekends!!
• I can't believe that my 2nd wedding anniversary in less then a month away. I had the best wedding and have a GREAT marriage.
• I have been out trying to find new shirts for work and I have had NO luck!!! I'm not a big shopper. I like going to outlets 2-3 times a year but I go to the same ones so I get in & out fast. I have a trip planned in September to Ohio to see my home girls and I get a chance to shop til I drop so I have a feeling I will find something. If not cloths we may go to Sephora!!!
• My new obession is youtube! I know it's old news but it's new to me. I was serching for the feather extensions and came across Kandee Johnson! She has so many "how to" video's. From hair to make-up oh she is educational, funny and I love her sense of humor! Check her out.

That's all for now!! Have a great Thurday :)

Come fly with me

Recently I was told about a great airline (can you believe that)

Allegiantair

My source informed me that this airline offers nonstop flights for cheap

he has used them several times (he lives in NY and has a second home in FL)

we're talking $77 round trip!!!!

He told me the plane has 3 seats on on side and 2 on the other (smaller plane) but it has nice leather over sized seats and it was a nice experience.

Here is the catch if you want to call it that.

The locations they have are limited and they only fly certain days of the week

EX: If you leave from Elmira, NY you can fly to FL (3 airport locations)

&

they may fly only on Monday's and Friday's

Check it out. Find a airport near you!

Taco Cornbread Bake

This is one of the best recipes that I have found lately. I search for new recipes ALL the time! I came across Plain Chicken and she is an amazing cook. I have tried several of her recipes and I have enjoyed everyone so far. Check out her site and try a few. Another I would highly recommend is 7-UP biscuits. Check in on her everyday to find a new recipe.

Taco Cornbread Bake
1 lb ground round
1 packet taco seasoning
1/3 cup water
1 can Rotel tomatoes and green chiles
1 can black beans, drained and rinsed (I didn't use)
1 box Jiffy corn bread mix, plus ingredients to make cornbread
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (I use Mexican mix shredded cheese)
sour cream
salsa

In a large skillet, cook beef over medium heat until no longer pink; drain. Stir in the water and taco seasoning. Simmer for 5 minutes. Stir in 1/2 cup of cheese, Rotel tomatoes and black beans. Spoon into a greased 9 inch round cake pan.

Prepare corn bread mix according to package directions for corn bread. Spread over beef mixture. Bake, uncovered, at 400° for 20 minutes.

Sprinkle with remaining cheese. Bake 3-5 minutes longer or until cheese is melted.  Serve with sour cream and salsa.

Enjoy!!!

Wake up! I'm I in a rut???

1. I went to my parents last night and I have to take a different route because of road construction. I mentioned to my mom that it only adds a couple miles but it feels like 20 extra minutes. On the way home I took the detour and then noticed after passing the road on the other end the detour is no longer necessary.

2. I noticed today that I wear tan pants everyday. 

3.  I thought yesterday was Thursday (enough said)

4. I haven't lived at my parents home for 13 years. I went to call my home last week and dialed my parents....I guess I will always consider my parents home my home.

I did notice:

I love me some Panera Bread!!! I don't go often because I feel its expensive and it's so busy ALL the  time. I mostly go when my friend Joan and I have a date night but even recently we have picked other places. I do miss the great food, quick service and to people watch. But I was shopping at Target I found Panera soup in the refrigerator section!!! I couldn't believe my eyes. Our Target was recently upgraded to a Super Target and I have found many items that I wasn't a ware of.

hey, it's okay

I saw this over at Lauren's blog ( http://samandlaurenbattershell.blogspot.com/ ) and thought it looks fun!!

It's okay....

• that I'm at work wishing 2 pm was here
•  
• that I dress as if it's winter for my office but get smacked in the face with heat once I step outside and it's 90+
•  
• that I have a list of things that I want to get done but haven't done because it's too hot
•  
• that I got my hair cut Saturday and I'm still not sure if I like it
•  
• that I gave up coffee, soda and drinking for 2011 and I drank a soda the other day
•  

Kitchen improvements

 I thought I would share some improvements in my kitchen all dealing with my cooking appliances. When we bought our house it didn't need any major improvements. Just paint colors, new curtains & area rugs. We have lived in our house for 11 years and we have made some improvements so I thought we would start in the kitchen.

This is my kitchen when we started. My stove was from 1980!!

We decided that we should replace it. I would have to watch anything that cooked. It had the old coil burners and the over did not bake evenly.

We also updated the window in the kitchen

December 2010:

We purchased a new electric flat top oven. It has been an adjustment to my old electric oven but it bakes evenly and the burners heat up so quick!

January 2011:

After our counter top microwave stop working we decided to get a over the range microwave. This has saved me so much counter space!!! It also has a great fan and a bright light!

Also you can see the mat in front of the oven it's a gel mat and it's one of my best investments! I have also have one in front of my sink and it helps out so much when you are on your feet all day.

May 2011:

New kitchen sink

LOVE my new sink! It's 9 inches deep composite black granite single basin.

sorry about picture it's from my phone

A couple small things can make such a big change!

What I'm Loving Wednesday

I'm Loving the beautiful weather! Today is 80 and NO humidity!
I'm Loving that I'm trying Loving Wednesdays for the 1st time!
I'm Loving I checked in on my Blog yesterday and I had my 1st comment.
I'm Loving that this week I know I will be thinking about next Wednesday's post.
I'm Loving that I made a wedding cake last weekend and I had extra flowers and they are on my dining room table.

What are you loving? Link up with Jamie and tell us.

I'm Retired!!!!!!!

I am 31 year old and I retired on July 23,2011!!! I have made the decision that I am no longer making wedding cakes. It has been a long time coming and I did a cake for Saturday when it was 95 degrees and NO air conditioning in the hall. I was SO nervous that the cake wouldn't hold up. I was so relieved that it did.

As I look back on my career of baking I think it's best for me at this time in my life to put this portion on hold. I enjoy it but it is stressful and I don't do it all the time but that makes it harder because I don't have all the equipment and supplies. So I only buy what I need and it's not cost effective. I'm sure if something out of the blue comes up I will help in referring to a great baker or take it on.

It feels so good to say I'm retired!!!

Hello, my name is Wendy

Well it’s been several weeks (11 weeks{well more like 3 1/2 months! I started this post such a long time ago}) and nothing from me. I know that I only have 2 followers and I don’t think they follow me & I’m okay with that. When I first started my Blog it was about cooking, tips & product reviews. I have change as a person in the time that I have started this Blog and I try not to share personal things (afraid of who my read or once it out you can never take it back). So, I don’t express my thoughts I don’t share personal things but I do read several Blogs; some about weight loss, families, craft and life experiences and they share so much. I enjoy that about them and it has inspired me to start expressing myself. With that being said I will ease in because I know myself and it won’t be easy. I am at a point in my life where I need to express feelings that I have so I can be happy and let things go. I am so thankful that I don’t have any horrible issue that I can’t handle. I know some of you know that when you hold things inside it can affect you in many ways. I am learning to not hold on to things and to look at things in more than one way. I have incorporated this in my job since June and I feel much more relaxed. I can't control anything but me and I am now know as "go with the flow Wendy" don't get me wrong I express my thoughts but I don't let it bother me if my boss doesn't take them. I know that I contribute and that's all I can do.

One main reason why I don’t Blog a lot is that I am a horrible speller & I have a hard time expressing my thoughts to words. This is one thing in my life that I deal with everyday. I wish that I paid more attention in school. I was an average student I excelled in business courses and still to this day enjoy learn about the business world. I’m in the business world as a life insurance sales. I never pictured myself selling insurance. I enjoy my job I find it very rewarding. To be able to help people protect what they have worked so hard for is a true joy. I am the non-pressure sales person but I am very successful. I write 85% of my office life policies. I am very open and understanding that most people feel that life insurance is a waste of money. I will never pressure anyone into believe how I feel about life insurance. I layout the options and help answer questions so they can make an educated decision. I don't feel this is my ideal career have no clue what work force career would be for me. I do enjoy my job but I know it’s not my dream job.
Another reason I don’t Blog much is I don’t think I have much to share. I love to cook, bake, sew and find new great products. I don’t have great time management. Meaning once I get home and cook dinner, make lunches for the next day, pick up around the house and spend time with my husband I don’t feel like being on the computer. It’s not just about the Blog I used to be the girl that her checkbook was to the penny and up to date, the girl who was on top of every birthday, anniversary, get well card the girl who spent hours in her craft/office organizing and sewing. Now I just want to spend my time with my husband and hang out (not a bad thing just need to get more done). I recently had 3 weeks off of work (out due to surgery) mind you I wasn’t able to get up and around and I might have gone back to work a little early but the only thing I can think of know that I am back to work is how I didn’t get anything done. I know I needed to rest and take care of myself but dang how I could have gotten so many things done. So my excuses are out; lame but I have plan to help me out of my funk……..

In the past I would say I would blog "x" amount of days and this time I am going to post as I want and not make it a chore. I hope to blog more often and share more with the Blog world.

April Showers bring May flowers (please)....

It's April and in NY we had snow today. I think everyone is ready for SPRING. If it's not snowing it's raining. I don't mind rain at all (right now). It cleans all the salt off the road from winter. It makes me think about all the flowers to come.
April has been rainy in so many way for me. It's raining (but remember I like the rain) in my personal life but I know it will bring flowers (maybe not in May but it will happen). Life is so funny. I believe 100% that everything happens for a reason. I live by this. It gets me through the hard times and I cherish the good times even more.
April 24=Easter!! I enjoy Easter so much. My family comes over and we enjoy each others company. My mom is out of town this year spending time with her sister in GA. I have found a new recipe for ham it's soaks in apple cider for 4-5 hours before cooking then you bake in in a oven bag on a low tempurture for 2-3 hours. You make a glaze with the cider and apply to the ham and then coat with brown sugar and let cook for 30 minutes. I'll let you know how it turns out!!!

Just a quick post.
:)

Wendy

Bullet Points

It's been a while since I posted so I thought I would share somethings that are on my mind.... ** I started this post 2/17......***

• We finally have a warm break here in NY!!! We have had a couple days in the 30's and Friday it should be in the 50's. I know it will be short lived but we have had a bitter cold winter this year. **It's now March and this week it should be in the 50's all week!!***
• I can't wait for Spring. I love the winter but for some reason this year I am longing for the fresh spring air to come.
• Big plans for this year: paint the hallway, redo the spare catch all room, looking for a new kitchen sink (already have the faucet), rearranging our bedroom, finding some art work to hang in our bedroom, new windows in living room, buying blinds for living $ bedroom
• I am missing my Ohio girls SOOOOOO much! I can't wait to get out and see them.
• I am trying a new eating plan that has helped me tremendously. I am learning that my body is insulin resistant meaning that high carb/sugar loaded foods react to my body. I have cut out white flour and I am eating more lean meats and vegetables. I cut out the 100 calorie packs, snack bars and I can see huge results. I also started drinking a high protein shake almost everyday. Yes, I have lost 10 pounds (bonus) but not only that I feel better. I don't feel sluggish or the over full feeling. I don't eat sweets like I used to and I do treat myself to little things but I remember how my body reacts to the sugar and how I don't like the feeling of being run down.  I thought this would be hard but it has been 18 days and I feel that I am adjusting well. ** I am still on this plan it has made HUGE improvements to my life**
• I have read two books so far this month. The one I read in 1 day and the other in just a couple of days.I love the feeling of relaxing but also doing something. I am starting to enjoy books. I am reading different types of books so I don't get stuck in a rut of the same old reading materials. The last couple books have been mystery. I am now going to turn to some biography's. **I have read two BIOS= Sharon Osbourne and Valerie Burtnelli***
• I am finding out that I am looking for a change at work. I spoke with a business development coach (everyone at my job works with a coach {she helps develop job descriptions, works with us to find out how we operate to make sure we are in the right role}) and I have come to recognise that I am not doing the "prefect/dream"job. I know every job has it's pro's & con's but I was able to talk to my coach and we both are working on a new job description to bring up to my employer. I feel like this will be a great position and my coach has giving me some ideas and has recommended I write so plans out and present them to my boss. If you know anything about me I am a huge planner so this is sparking my interest.
•  New find ELF: eyes, lips, face brand of cosmetics. You can find them at Target stores and online. I love that almost everything is $1!!!! I first started by using the brush's and have recently started to use the eye make-up. I like to change my eye make up often so it works that it's only $1. I also want to try the make up mist and set.




waterproof eye liner $1





eyelid primer $1





Make up mist & set $3

That's my update for now. I hope all is well in the Blogging community!!!!!

Wendy

French dip me

This makes a delicious French dip sandwich, perfect for the working mom! Nobody, not even teetotalers, have been able to detect the presence of beer in this recipe, but it adds a wonderful flavor! French fries make a great side dish, and they are good for dipping, too."

Ingredients

• 4 pounds rump roast
• 1 (10.5 ounce) can beef broth
• 1 (10.5 ounce) can condensed French onion soup
• 1 (12 fluid ounce) can or bottle beer
• 6 French rolls
• 2 tablespoons butter

Directions

1. Trim excess fat from the rump roast, and place in a slow cooker. Add the beef broth, onion soup and beer. Cook on Low setting for 7 hours.
2. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
3. Split French rolls, and spread with butter. Bake 10 minutes, or until heated through. I used the toaster oven instead of the oven
4. Slice the meat on the diagonal, and place on the rolls. Serve the sauce for dipping.

**AllRecipes.com**

Kneed to save on bread????

Bread:

3 loaves of country white, 1 package of sandwich thins,

1 loaf of light wheat

How much you ask???

$6.78!!!!

I saved $11.86!!!

I just found the Freighoffers outlet store.

they sell close to sell by date items for 50-75% off!!

Now, this may be a problem for some but not me.

I freeze my bread until we need it so this work out.

I saved 65% !!

Banana Saver Review

 Banana Saver

unique clip keeps cut banana fresh.

cut banana @ 10 AM

it reduces the cut banana's exposure to the air slowing it's oxidation

ate 2nd half @ 3 PM

Review: I think it works great! I cut my first 1/2 @ 10 AM and ate the second at 3PM!!!! I know so many people ask "you can't eat a full banana??" sometimes a full banana is too much. If I want it in my cereal I don't want to much.

Forrest Friends baby shower cake

Forrest Friends baby shower cake

a girl at work that requests cakes all the time

I have done several cakes for her including the race car cake tat I posted in May

Her sister is having a baby boy next month and her theme is Forrest friends.

I started by making 1/2 white 1/2 chocolate cake

using butter cream I flat frosted

and used spray food coloring to make the sky & grass

I use chocolate frosting to make the tree.
using the leave tip to make the border and leaves on the tree.
She had purchased some little animals that I placed on top.
Congratulations!!!

Books by James Patterson

Honeymoon is a tale about Nora Sinclair with a black widow history. She loves that women want to know and be here and men want to be with her. FBI agent John O'Neil is investigating her for the mysterious things that happen to especially with men.

Swim Suit-A breathtaking model disappears from a photo shoot at the most glamorous hotel in Hawaii. Only hours after Kim McDaniel's does missing her parents receive a terrifying phone call. Fearing the worst they travel to Hawaii to begin the search......
Both books are well written easy reading. I read the swimsuit in an afternoon. It helped me get back into reading that I enjoy and sometimes get away from.

Coming soon......

here are some ideas of what i am planning on posting over this month:

• Books I plan on read over the next couple months
• baby shower cake that I am doing 1/9
• before and after of kitchen cabinets (organizing)
• meal plan for January
• monthly shopping list

Goals 2011

Goals for 2011

Personal & Business

Personal:

Read 12 books

save $3000

drink 60 oz. water a day

Blog 2 times a week

Business:

pivot to 3 people a day

no online searches for personal use while at work

clean desk off everyday before I leave

zero out my activities everyday

I have more but think this is a good start. They are very maintainable.

What goals have you set for 2011?