Ricepatty

Big Doin's in Little Osprey

2011-05-15T09:58:00.002-04:00

Duff Goldman

Living here in South West Florida where it is not exactly the metropolis we don't get to see very many famous people - sure there are lots of famous people who own properties on the local beaches and keys but for the most part it's just us "little" people here living our simple lives. So, when a local company that started out here and has grown in size with stores all over the east coast has it's 65th "Birthday" they like to do it up in a BIG way. Tervis tumblers and cups are among my favorites in the kitchen - not only are they nice to look at with so many designs to choose from they are guaranteed for life if anything goes wrong with them you just bring it back to the store and is is replaced for FREE!

Here is a brief history of the Tervis Tumbler Company - Borrowed from their website:
Let's take a little trip back in time. It’s 1946. Detroit. Engineers Frank Cotter and G. Howlett Davis hit on something big: They harness the natural insulating powers of air to create a permanently sealed, double-walled tumbler. Finally a way to keep hot drinks hot and cold drinks cold. Not to mention, it is virtually indestructible. This outstanding innovation changed the drinkware industry forever. Talk about a game changer.

Combining the last three letters of each of their last names, Cotter and Davis dubbed their new cup brand “Tervis.” In the years to follow, they worked hard to refine and improve their designs. The original tall, cylindrical tumbler evolved into additional sizes and products. Today, Tervis offers six tumbler sizes and an ice bucket, plus hundreds of customizable designs, emblems, and accessory combinations.

Now back to the celebration - to help Tervis celebrate 65 years they invited Chef Duff Goldman from Charm City Cakes to judge a cake contest from local bakeries and to answer some questions the folks had to ask. He was super nice, A real down to earth guy, he's very funny and yes "charming". There were SO many people there as you can imagine it being sleepy lil' Osprey and all. The cupcakes were out for all to sample the weather was perfect (no rain) and I think all in all a good day was had by everyone.

Happy Birthday Tervis!!!

Cupcakes for all!

Duff

Boys of Summer

2011-03-19T20:01:00.000-04:00

JRoll at bat

Victorino at bat

Cole Hammels

Rollins, Victorino on deck

Celebration at the plate when Victorino homered!

Well Spring Training is in full swing here in South West Florida - better known as the Grapefruit League. Today I was lucky enough to see my "hometown" team the Philadelphia Phillie's play the Baltimore Oriels right here in Sarasota at the newly refurbished Ed Smith Stadium - new winter home to the Oriels - the place is just beautiful "they" did a wonderful job bringing the stadium back to it's original but up-dated glory all who were involved in the project should be so proud of the out come. The day was a perfect one for baseball - lucky for me I wore my sun screen as it was hot and sunny!

WINTER DULDRUMS

2011-01-24T09:54:00.001-05:00

I just came across this beautiful flower. I took this photo last summer while I was visiting my Dad in the Poconos in Pennsylvania - right now they are buried in snow and temps don't rise much above the "teens" most days. I thought this would be nice to share with everyone who - like me is suffering from the winter blahs. Have a great day!

Happy New Year!!!

2010-12-31T07:20:00.000-05:00

Time sure sure is flying....
HAPPY 2011 TO ALL!!!!!

Need I say more...

2010-11-27T09:16:00.000-05:00

Happy Shopping :)

Gifts From the Garden

2010-10-11T19:12:00.000-04:00

Not all from my personal garden but gardens of friends known and unknown to me.

Sights Seen At a Recent Parade - Camera Critters

2010-10-02T07:00:00.001-04:00

My hubby and I recently went to a hometown parade - it was quite fun lots of neat floats and local color - this was a nice group to watch go by the lady with the Chihuahua was my favorite perfect for Camera Critters.

Happy 1 Year Anniversary to Me!!

2010-09-29T06:00:00.004-04:00

It is so hard for me to believe that I started this lil 'ol blog a year ago. Thank you to everyone who has visited and who has left me such encouraging comments throughout the year. It sure has been FUN!!!

Camera Critters-Super Smart Turtles

2010-09-04T13:19:00.003-04:00

These 2 female sea turtles have been trained by some wonderful volunteer trainers at Mote Marine Laboratory in Sarasota Florida to be able to distinguish color. We watched as the trainers held colored panels under the surface of the water. As they would change the color the sea turtles who knew which color was theirs would turn and swim towards it. The volunteers explained to us this is any easy way to separate the "girls" if they just need to treat one. Very interesting and enjoyable to watch - who knew sea turtles were so SMART!

New Color Carnival

2010-09-02T06:00:00.013-04:00

Beautiful things you see at Whole Foods.

This Color Carnival is dedicated to Martha (MM) who just recently retired from Color Carnival.

Happy Birthday Martha!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

New Food Blog!!

2010-09-01T10:07:00.000-04:00

I want to invite you to come on over to my new food blog. I'm just getting it started so bear with me while I add to it. I am looking forward to some fun times in the kitchen sharing some good food with you!

Camera Critters - Junior and Sonny "stand-off".

2010-08-28T06:00:00.002-04:00

This is Sonny our daughter's cockatiel and Junior our maltese checking each other out - Junior doesn't know what to make of the silly bird.

Ruby Tuesday - Watery Wednesday!

2010-08-17T19:00:00.000-04:00

All I can think is...
THIS IS THE LIFE!

Mellow Yellow Monday!

2010-08-16T06:00:00.006-04:00

When my dear friend Martha (MM) put up a recipe for beer bread I knew I had to make it. Beer is not something that I keep in the house so buying beer required a trip to the liquor store. Little did I know that there were so many different types of beer to choose from. Now those that know me might think I chose this particular beer because the bottle matches my kitchen but not so - this is a heavy beer made with wheat and yeast and so that it why I chose it for the bread which by the way came out just perfect and didn't last long around my house at all :) Happy Mellow Yellow Monday!

Knee Surgery

2010-08-10T11:20:00.007-04:00

My poor DH had to have surgery on his right knee this morning - he had a tear in his meniscus and he had a bit of arthritis that the doc "cleaned" up while he was "in" there. The surgery was arthroscopic which meant that he only had to make 2 small incisions in the knee to go in to do the repair. Not being in the medical field and luckily not having had surgery myself recently I was surprised to see the doctor's initials right above the bandage when he came out of recovery. "DC" (for Derek Cuff) do you see it in the photo? Apparently the doctor comes in before the surgery and puts his initials right above the place where the procedure will be done - I guess so there are no mistakes - like you know how you hear stories of body parts gone missing because the surgeon made a mistake. This may be strange to some of you but I thought it was very interesting - and I thought I'd share :) No mistakes here thanks Dr.Cuff!

Mellow Yellow Monday

2010-08-09T06:00:00.000-04:00

This is the orchid that I gave to my dear friend Vicki for her birthday which is coming up this Wednesday. I took some photos of it while we were at the beach Satuday night. I think it is a very pretty variety. Happy Birthday Vicki and Happy Mellow Yellow Monday everyone!

Blogger Beach Bash 2010!

2010-08-08T18:59:00.005-04:00

Thank you to Martha from Menagerie and Seaside Simplicity (to name just two) for bringing us together for the Blogger Beach Bash. Martha, myself, Lyndsey from The Tiny Skillet and Aqua Sunday and Vicki of Shell Seeker all met at the beach for the drum circle Saturday night. Martha provided a bit of "bubbly" cheer and a great time was had by all. The weather was perfect and the sunset spectacular! I can't wait to do it again - maybe next time more of you out there can join us?

Cheers!

"The Bloggers"

Glorious!

Fish Tacos

2010-08-07T09:19:00.002-04:00

This is one of my most favorite meals to make and enjoy - fish tacos. They are so delicious and as with most tacos you can make them however you like the one pictured I added a little tomato and lettuce. The way we make them around here is:

1/2 lb White fish

Soft Taco shells

Dressing

1/2 cup Mayonnaise

2 tbs Dill (I use the dill paste from the produce dept)

the juice of 1 lime

Combine all in a bowl mix well and refrigerate.

Salsa

1 can black beans (drained and rinsed)

1 can whole corn - or 2 cups thawed frozen

Fresh cilantro coarsely chopped

1/4 cup red onion finely chopped

The juice of 2 limes - more to taste

Combine all in a bowl mix well and refrigerate

We either fry the fish in bread crumbs or just pop it in on the grill. Once your fish is ready spread some of the dressing on the taco shell put in the fish and top with the corn salsa - YUM!

While out taking my walk in the Poconos...

2010-07-24T06:00:00.001-04:00

I met up with some lovely neighbors... And their friends...

Saw some pretty sights.

and some youngsters :)

What a nice walk!

Flowers in the Poconos - Some Wild - Some Not So Wild

2010-07-23T17:00:00.001-04:00

Pretty Flowers were everywhere - some in gardens some just sprouting out of the gravel on the roadside all so fresh and colorful.

Dad's Lake

2010-07-23T10:20:00.003-04:00

The Lake at the bottom of the hill - beautiful!

Leaving on a Jet Plane...

2010-07-11T06:00:00.000-04:00

I'm off on another adventure to see my dad in the Poconos in Pennsylvania for a few days. I haven't been to the mountians in PA for at least 5 years - and he offered to fly me up so I said - Yes! I hope to blog from there but if not I'll be back in a week or so with tons of pictures and lots to tell so stay tuned. I leave you with this lovely flower from the firecracker bush in my backyard.

Smiling Biggie

2010-07-10T06:00:00.000-04:00

This is Biggie he is our daughter Marissa's long haired chihuahua I took this picture of him while he was laying with his "mommy" she had just put her glasses on him - how cute and how happy he was to show them off! Perfect for Camera Critters - Happy Saturday Everyone :)

Stomboli YUM!

2010-07-07T09:36:00.004-04:00

Stromboli is a favorite around here one reason I think everyone loves it is because the sky is the limit as to the combinations that can be created! These 2 here are definitely favorites of everyone in my house. On the left is the salami, pepperoni, provolone, mozzarella, garlic and basil - on the right is fresh spinach and mushroom sauteed and drained well - you don't want to add too much moisture to the dough as it makes it soggy - so after I saute I just blot the mixture with paper towels to dry it off pretty good then I added provolone cheese a small amount of Parmesan-Romano, garlic and basil. I cheat and use the pizza dough that I purchase at the Publix bakery roll it out nice and thin and as I said roll up just about anything that you like. Simple meal - just add a side salad and dinner is served!

Happy July 1 And Color Carnival!

2010-07-01T09:31:00.002-04:00

More scenes from the Straw Market on Nassau - lovely sarongs for pretty girls to wear!

Sunset on the Sensation

2010-06-29T19:30:00.000-04:00

Sunset on the last evening of the cruise. Spectacular! Happy Watery Wednesday to you.

Scenes From The Serenity Deck ~ Aboard The Sensation

2010-06-28T06:00:00.001-04:00

Our last day was at sea Marissa my daughter and I spent a good part of it on the Serenity Deck, they have hot tubs there and calming music playing and bar service right at your lounge chair. These were the 2 chairs we were lucky enough to "lounge" on. I just love these yellow umbrellas they really kept the sun off of us ~ what a relaxing day it was. Just perfect for a Mellow Yellow Monday!

A Room With a View

2010-06-27T08:06:00.004-04:00

This was my view from our cabin balcony on the cruise - really there is nothing like looking out on the vast Atlantic Ocean especially when you are in the middle of it. This photo is my om age to my bud and favorite co-worker Martha :) It's not a classic shadow shot but I thought it was close enough to share - Happy Sunday!

More from the Bahamas

2010-06-26T06:00:00.002-04:00

While pulling into port we passed this lovely little lighthouse on one of the tiny out-islands, such a nice welcome for the ships coming in and those aboard.

A group of children listening to a band playing with a nice raggae beat.

A conch fishermen selling his wares.
Beautiful shells for sale.

The artisans on the island are amazing look at these wood carvings.
Bahama wear for all :)

Happy 100th Post to Me!!!

2010-06-24T23:00:00.001-04:00

Picking something special for my 100th post ended up being pretty easy. We just got back from a cruise to the Bahamas for my DH's parents 50th wedding anniversary. The entire family was able to make the trip and with 2 dear Aunts along with us the total group was 18! Needless to say a fun time was had by all :) here is a shot of our amazing ship The Carnival Sensation. Nassau was beautiful the water was crystal clear, the sun was shining and the tempatures were hot hot hot!

Thank You Martha @ Menagerie for the 100th post celebration cupcake :)

LuLu!

2010-06-05T07:07:00.002-04:00

This is LuLu right after her grooming session with the wonderful Keri - notice the little green bow over her ear - how sweet. LuLu is a "tomboy" (she has 3 brothers) and of course the bow only last about 24 hours but she sure did look extra cute with it on.

Happy Friday and Color Carnival!!

2010-06-04T06:00:00.002-04:00

Beads seen at a recent street party in Punta Gorda, Fl - inspite of the rain a good time was had by all!

June 1 - the first day of hurricane season...

2010-06-01T06:00:00.001-04:00

With all that is going on out in the Gulf of Mexico these days the last thing we need to worry about is hurricane season being upon us. Let's hope the oil geyser in the gulf gets under control and soon - the wild life here on the gulf coast depends upon it. Luckily our beaches here in SW Florida are still oil free and beautiful and the wild life here still has an environment that will sustain it. This lovely White Ibis and his brother joined us on the beach the other morning looking for breakfast. I am hopeful that these beauties will continue to grace our shores

A Salute to Our Heros Past and Present

2010-05-31T06:00:00.002-04:00

Thank you to all of our American Soldiers who have sacrificed so much that we may enjoy living the free life we do every day. A special thanks to our fathers and grandfathers who served in years gone by. Remember our troops who are serving today in all parts of this crazy world ~ let's pray for their safe return. Remember -- Freedom Isn't Free!!! Happy Memorial Day!

Here fishy fishy fishy...

2010-05-29T08:24:00.002-04:00

This metal sculpture of a fish was seen at an art show in Venice, FL the photo doesn't do the size justice this guy was quite large - I just love the detail on him and of course his blue hue :)

Blue Ribbon Art Work

2010-05-22T07:00:00.001-04:00

This beautiful kitty was drawn by one of the wonderful art students who attend the high school where I work. This particular piece was drawn by a 9th grader who won a blue ribbon for best graphite/pencil drawing. I thought this little guy or gal was a sweet little critter for everyone to enjoy :)

More Blue...

2010-05-21T21:08:00.003-04:00

These are some of the toys we keep on hand at our office in the school the funny thing about all of these toys is that they were all given to me and my co-worker and friend Martha as gifts at different times over the years - we especially like the different buttons that play music or that have funny sayings when you press them.

Blue Relaxation...

2010-05-09T07:00:00.003-04:00

In keeping with the May blue theme. This fun little bench was in front of a neat little restraunt called "Critters" on the beach in St. Pete Fl. The restraunt sits on the water and looks like a house from the street. Once inside you cannot believe just how big the "house" is and it has outside eating right on the water. What a charming place to eat - the seafood is fresh and delicious. The bench caught my eye because of the fun saying ~ we should all live by this :) p.s. Happy Mother's Day!!!!!

Blue Iris

2010-05-04T17:39:00.005-04:00

Hmm I think I may have a theme going here with the blues...

The Blue Madonna

2010-04-23T17:00:00.003-04:00

This is my most favorite painting at The Ringling Museum of Art in Sarasota Florida. The Blue Madonna (oil on canvas) by Carlo Dolci a Florentine painter during the 17th century. Dolci was a child prodigy and he actually did this painting at the age of 16, he lived most of his life in Florence Italy and actually became internationally famous in his own lifetime. This photograph taken on a recent trip to the museum really does not do it justice - the light that comes off of this painting in person is hard to describe. Mable Ringling was a huge fan of Baroque art the gallery is filled with some elaborate pieces from the 16th and 17th centuries and forward. This piece just stands out to me above the rest - if you ever get a chance to go to the museum make sure you find The Blue Madonna she will take your breath away.

HAPPY ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT DAY!

2010-04-21T08:59:00.004-04:00

To all of my fellow admin assistants I say have a Great Day and remember things in your office/company/business would not run as smoothly or be as organized if it wasn't for all of your hard work and dedication. Just in case your boss forgets to say it Thank You!!!!!!!!!!

Woodpecker On The Run!

2010-04-17T09:30:00.006-04:00

This mommy woodpecker has recently moved into one of our birdboxes one evening I caught her looking out and when she saw me snapping her picture she took off and this what I captured! Pretty neat she's a very beautiful pileated woodpecker - now we are just waiting for the babies to arrive :)

Crab Cakes with Spanish Rice and Corn Bread

2010-04-14T19:24:00.007-04:00

Crab cakes one of my husbands favorites here's a simple recipe:

8 oz lump crab meat
1 egg yoke
1tsp dry mustard
2 tsp Worcestershire
1 Tsp mayonnaise

Mix altogether in a bowl -- the mixture will feel a bit dry - form into patties place on a cookie sheet (covered in parchment paper) bake in the oven on 350 for 5 minutes - flip and leave in for another 5 minutes until golden brown. Serve immediately. Your family will love these all meat no filler :) They taste great with rice and corn muffins or with coleslaw and french fries or whatever! Can even be served as an appetizer.

Happy Easter - Happy Spring!

2010-04-02T10:21:00.002-04:00

Glorious Spring has Sprung! Happy Easter Everyone :)

Rain drops...

2010-03-31T07:00:00.001-04:00

Beautiful yellow rose taken at Mabel Ringling's Rose Garden on a recent trip after a full day of rain - lucky me the whole entire garden was in full bloom what an exquisite sight to see.

Trash to Treasure

2010-03-27T07:30:00.002-04:00

One thing that I really enjoy doing is finding something old and disgarded and giving it a new "life". I'm not really sure why I am so drawn to "old" things or things that need to be spruced up but I am. Truly I would rather take something old and make it new agian then go out and buy something that's brand new with no history or character. Here is a chest that I recently found in someone's trash - I just couldn't leave it there I knew it could be something special. These are the before, during and after pictures. I have to give credit to my husband who helped me by rebuilding a couple of the drawers that were in need of repair. In the first picture you may have noticed that the chest had doors at the bottom - they were very warped so I decided instead of asking my husband to build new ones I would just make this a neat place for some pretty storage baskets I am so happy with the way it turned out. What do you think?

Easter Orchid

2010-03-26T20:45:00.003-04:00

Pretty Orchid my husband gave to me. I thought it would look cute "dressed up" for Easter.

Colorful Globe?

2010-03-12T16:30:00.001-05:00

Happy Color Carnival Everyone!!!!!!

Ruby Tuesday - This Way Thursway

2010-03-08T20:00:00.000-05:00

You may recognize this sign from a popular restaurant - my son works here as a cook and just loves it. When he graduates from college he hopes to own his own place. I know that one day he will fulfill his dream. Happy RT and TWT!!

New MeMe on the Motivation Station

2010-03-07T06:00:00.006-05:00

Now that my kids are grown I don't really do a weekly meal plan any more - I don't feel as though I have to so I don't - most of the time it's just me and my husband if our son is around he usually eats a dinner plate that I make up for him for when he gets home from work around 10 pm - our daughter is back at home now but she rarely eats at home her schedule is so busy. I do still cook every night but, it's really more of a what are we in the mood for type of food prep these days. During the week we keep it simple and share the chore - we grill a lot probably 3 or 4 nights a week it makes it nice for me since the grill is man territory in our house :) Yesterday morning at around 6:30 am I made this simple but, delicious macaroni salad for my husband and some of the workers to have for lunch with li'l smokies that I did in the crockpot with jelly and ketchup and mustard - they all really loved their lunch - the mac salad was a favorite. This was a simple and filling lunch for a bunch of hardworking guys.

Simple Macaroni with Shrimp and Crab

1 pound of elbow macaroni
2 ribs celery sliced thin
1 - 6 oz can tiny shrimp (don't drain)
1 - 6 oz can of crabmeat (don't drain)
1 cup of mayonnaise
1 tsp celery seed

Cook and drain macaroni.
Place the macaroni in a large bowl add all of the above ingredients including the liquid in the canned fish. Mix well - refrigerate until well chilled.

Go play on The Motivation Station!

"Hello!"

2010-03-06T06:24:00.002-05:00

These are 2 of the 4 amazing pups that I get to come home to everyday - Biggie (left) Fletcher (right) they make me laugh every day! Happy CC everyone :)

Oh WARM Me Up Soup! - Color Carnival

2010-03-05T13:00:00.001-05:00

I know I know I just posted this a few days ago but, I thought with all of the wonderful colors in this pot it deserved to be a Color Carnival. Look at my earlier post for the recipe if you are interested. Happy CC have a great weekend!

"Red Rooster"

2010-03-02T06:00:00.000-05:00

These neat Roosters were handmade by a crafter from Maine - I spotted them at a recent artfest they are so lifelike as were all of the "animals" that she made. I thought these guys said Cocka Doodle Ruby Tuesday!

Mellow Yellow Monday

2010-03-01T06:00:00.000-05:00

Even with all of the cold and rainy weather some of the plants and flowers around here have been thriving - this is some sort of Alamander vine it was growing along a fence at Shamrock Park. The blooms are so fresh and vibrant - I may have to get a plant like this for my garden. Happy March only 20 days left until Spring!!

"BEACHWARMING PARTY"

2010-02-28T13:00:00.004-05:00

I am relatively new to blogging and I don't know Dave but my dear friend Martha @ Menagerie invited me to help celebrate Dave's new life as an Islander. I am going to bring Barbados Black Bean Cakes with Mango Salsa. This is a delicious and easy recipe I hope everyone enjoys it especially you Dave - Good Luck in your new "life".

BARBADOS BLACK BEAN CAKES
(Borrowed from Vegetarian Times Cookbook)

Two 15 oz cans black beans
1/4 cup chopped cilantro leaves
1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
1 egg white, slightly beaten
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp minced garlic
1/2 tsp groung allspice
1/8 tsp cayenne pepper
1/3 cup bread crumbs
Nonstick cooking spray
1 Tbsp olive oil

Place beans in a large bowl and coarsely mash them until they stick together. Add the cilantro, onion, egg white, cumin, garlic, allspice, and cayenne. Mix until well blended. Divide the mixture into 8 equal parts. Shape in 1/2 inch thick patties. Coat the patties with bread crumbs. Spray both sides with nonstick cooking spray. Heat the oil in a skillet over med-high heat. Add the bean cakes and fry until golden brown on both sides, turing once, about 8 minutes total. Serve warm with the mango salsa. Garnish with cilantro and lime wedges.

MANGO SALSA

2 cups peeled, diced mango
1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
1/4 cup finely diced red onion
1 serrano pepper, seeded and minced (I omitted this pepper)
2 Tbsp coarsely chopped fresh cilantro leaves
2 tsp minced fresh ginger root
1 Tbsp fresh lime juice

ENJOY!!

Time sure is flying!

2010-02-28T06:00:00.001-05:00

It is hard to believe that we are entering the third month of 2010 already - I thought this would be the perfect shadow shot for the beginning of a new month! Happy Shadow Shot Sunday :)

Lambie Pie

2010-02-27T06:00:00.000-05:00

Lambie Pie is the nickname that my mom gave to my daughter Marissa when she was a baby the name has stuck over the years. A few Christmas's ago Marissa gave this adorable little lamb to Mom - on my last visit to Mom's in NJ I spotted the little cutie and snapped its picture - such a sweet gift from my girl to my mom.

Peace!

2010-02-26T06:00:00.001-05:00

I think the bag says it all (-:

Vegetable Soup

2010-02-25T17:30:00.005-05:00

Here is a simple basic vegetable soup that will warm you and fill you up. Of course you can add any other vegetables that you might have on hand but here is the basic recipe.

8 cups of water
1 and 1/2 lbs of frozen mixed vegetables
3 ribs of celery
1 large onion chopped
1 small head of cabbage chopped
1 small rutabega or turnip diced
1 large can of tomatos in juice
1 16 oz container of vegetable stock

*****For vegetable beef soup add beef stock instead of vegetable and 3/4 lb of stewing beef.

In a large stock pot add all ingredients bring to a boil - turn heat down and simmer for 1 hour or until all veggies are tender. YUM!

Bubble Bath for TWT

2010-02-18T06:00:00.001-05:00

With all of this ridiculous cold weather we have STILL been having here in sunny SW Florida a hot bubble bath sounds just about right! Here's a sign I ran into while out shopping - I really like the "feel" of it!

Cool Shades - Mellow Yellow Monday

2010-02-15T06:00:00.000-05:00

While trying to stay out of the cold but still keep moving we decided to take our walk inside for a few days. A local fleamarket is large enough to go inside and basically just do laps around the place. This funny "polar bear" was sitting by the front door greeting the customers as they came in - he just cracked me up with those yellow shades - how perfect Happy MYM everyone!

And Then There Were 2

2010-02-14T06:00:00.000-05:00

"B" and I have continued our walks in hopes to be in better shape this spring. Mom has returned north now and so that just leaves the two of us to keep moving and getting into shape. Miss you mom - wish you were still here and not up there in all of that snow!!! Happy Valentine's Day and SSS Everyone!

Libby J in memoriam

2010-02-13T06:00:00.003-05:00

This girl was one of the best friends I ever had. She came into my life 15 years ago when she was just around 2 years old - my kids and I went to the dog shelter and found her. Libby lived with us for 14 happy years - a year ago this week we lost her. This was one of the last pictures ever taken of her she was a beautiful girl and a wonderful companion and friend. We miss you Libby.

Cliche Color Carnival

2010-02-12T15:20:00.003-05:00

I know this has probably been done a least 1000 x's but, the other day when I saw this gumball machine - first off I haven't really seen one in a very long time and secondly Color Carnival jumped to mind. So here it is in all it's glory - A Gumball Machine well just the gumballs (-: Happy CC!

Valentine's for Ruby Tuesday

2010-02-09T09:50:00.004-05:00

These little painted pots with chocolate covered marshmellows were made with love by me to give to all of the awesome women who toil away with me every day at the high school. Happy Valentine's Day!!

A Little Late for Mellow Yellow...

2010-02-08T19:45:00.005-05:00

I know this is a bit late for Mellow Yellow Monday but, I am so excited about this bloom that I just don't want to wait another week :) Yesterday (Sunday) while out in the yard with the puppies I was looking at my garden and assessing some of the damage done by all of the recent cold we have been experiencing here in SW Florida -- when low and behold I noticed something yellow over by where I keep a variety of my orchid plants. Now I was forgetful and left all of my orchids out in the elements over these past weeks - some are protected by trees and shrubs but, a few are just out there. Anyway, I saw this bit of yellow and when I got up to it - this is what I found!! Three beautiful blooms no less - mother nature sure does take care of things when we're not paying attention. Happy Mellow Yellow!

Scrub Jay

2010-01-30T06:00:00.001-05:00

This lovely guy was waiting along the trail at Shamrock Park the other day - of course we didn't have any peanuts with us but he did almost just land in B's hand when she held it up high over her head.

Colorful Painting

2010-01-29T06:00:00.001-05:00

This unusual painting was hanging up in the Mote Aquarium on a recent visit. I thought it was so neat how one bit of sea life blends in with the other yet you can still make them out individually. This particular piece was up for auction as part of a fundraiser for Mote. I know the winner will enjoy it.

This way Thursway

2010-01-28T06:00:00.002-05:00

When I saw this little sign while out and about I thought of my friend Miss Vicki - now that I think about it I should have gotten it for her - oh well now if I could only remember where I was when I saw it!! Sorry Vicki you'll just have to enjoy the photo (for now).

"Let's Go Fly A Kite..."

2010-01-26T16:40:00.003-05:00

The other day mom and I went to the beach - it was very windy so it was the perfect day for flying a kite. On the beach was a gentleman flying this trick kite all over the place - he was so good at it. We complimented him on his skill, he told us that he had been flying this type of kite for 7 years and that he had recently been to a competition - he was very funny -- he told me and mom that he thought he was "pretty good" until he went to the competition -- when he saw the other "flyers" he felt like they all had their Masters in kite flying while he was still in Kindergarten! We cracked up! The kite was fun to watch we felt he really put on a good show. Here it is flying out over the Gulf - some how he managed to just let the kite "hover" there for a few minutes it was very cool.

New Header Picture!!!

2010-01-26T16:14:00.003-05:00

OMG! THANK YOU to Martha @ Menagerie for the great advice to change my template so that I FINALLY have a header picture that I love aaaaaand that fits perfectly! I really love this picture it's an orchid that I grew with my own 2 little hands and that continues to grow just beautifully. Yippeeeeeeeeee!!!!!

Pineapple Cottage

2010-01-18T09:26:00.002-05:00

This quaint little cottage is one of the many pretty places that reside on Little Gasparilla Island. I noticed this cute place on our tour of the island I just loved the red pineapples - perfect for Mellow Yellow and for Ruby Tuesday :)

Walkie Talkies

2010-01-17T08:50:00.004-05:00

Me, Mom and B have been walking (and talking) daily as part of our feeling better and looking better in 2010 "program". This shot was taken on a day when it finally got warm and sunny here in SW Florida. We were heading back to the car when I noticed our shadows.

Those Summer Daze!

2010-01-13T06:00:00.001-05:00

This totally cool capture is of my perfectly adorable 11 year old nephew doing a "cannon ball" into the pool this past summer. With all of the cold weather that we have been experiencing here in sunny southwest Florida -- I thought a fun shot of a hot summer's day might do me some good. The picture is one of my favorites - I hope that you like it too.

Old Time Charm

2010-01-11T20:15:00.000-05:00

Here's another capture that my daughter caught when the Clydesdales came to our hometown last week. This is a perfect example of a time gone by - the horse drawn "trailer" -- delivering beer sure has come a long way.

Yellow Apple?

2010-01-11T06:00:00.002-05:00

This sweet little "apple" was hanging in the brush one day when we were out walking by the waterway. I as usual don't really know what kind of a plant this is - I am thinking it is some sort of wild crab apple. I'm hoping someone will recognize it and let me know what it is. Happy Mellow Yellow Monday :) !!

This Buds For Martha!

2010-01-08T06:00:00.002-05:00

On Wednesday the Budweiser Clydesdales came to our sleepy little town. My Mom, daughter and bff all went to town to see them (I was home sick)
. All three had a fun time and really enjoyed the whole experience. Mom, Marissa and Bonnielee arrived early at the staging area so that they could see the horses while they were being dressed for the parade. They got to speak with the handlers and see the dalmation "Barley" who rides up top with the men. Of course no one was allowed to touch any of the horses - this bummed "B" out a bit but, all in all they really enjoyed seeing those amazing animals up close. All of the photos were taken by my daughter. I thought this one was perfect for CC.

Being Sick Stinks!

2010-01-07T06:00:00.001-05:00

Now I know that there are many people who have serious illness - I can't even imagine what that might be like. I'm talking about being down with the flu or in my case an upper respiratory infection, infected sinuses and of all things an ear infection. How in the world I even got an ear infection I'll never know. It's not just the overall terrible feeling that is so bad - it's like your moving at top speed one day and the next you are literally flat on your back. You can't go to work - you can barely hold your head up. Then it's off to the doctor's for some relief that doesn't come as fast as you think it should - yes it comes but, first you have to not be able to breath for a day or 2 - have to sleep sitting up - then you lose your voice oh and when you think the worst is over you begin coughing - haha. No joke. So here I have been since - well really it all began last Saturday -but, I've been down for the count since Monday after my visit with the doctor. Thursday is upon us and still no voice and no real energy to speak of and of course missing yet another day of work. Thankfully I have wonderful co-workers who totally cover for me. So thank you to all who have been so patient with me through this miserable time. I know that I am THE worst patient in the world. Everyone have a great day - stay well -- WASH YOUR HANDS!

Night Time Fountain

2010-01-05T22:30:00.002-05:00

This fountain is outside one of my favorite hometown restaurants. We went to dinner as a family there the night before New Year's Eve and had a wonderful time. When we were getting ready to leave the fountain caught my eye the lighting was so pretty

LuLu

2010-01-02T11:14:00.002-05:00

Here's our little LuLu right after she got her hair cut. She was sitting up on my daughter's lap just begging to have her picture taken :)

Happy 2010!!!!!

2010-01-01T12:07:00.003-05:00

Here's a picture of the Pineapple that drops at midnight on New Years Eve in Sarasota FL -- it is a very fun place to go to be with a bunch a people just having a happy time ringing in the new year -- and of course at 12 on the dot the pineapple drops!!! HAPPY NEW YEAR!!

Happy New Year!!!

2009-12-31T06:00:00.001-05:00

I saw this shirt hanging in a store and it was just perfect for me with the New Year's celebration upon us! HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!!!!!!!

Low Tide

2009-12-30T06:00:00.001-05:00

One day recently we were picnicking on a nearby island when a storm came up very quickly. The tide was going out - and the storm made the tide just rip out to the gulf. We stayed on the island for shelter - the storm was scary but luckily for us and the others on the island it blew through very quickly. Once it cleared enough for us to leave we jumped in our boat to head for home -- on the way I spotted this poor sailboat that didn't fair to well - thankfully no one was on it.

Holiday Shoes!

2009-12-29T06:00:00.000-05:00

These beautiful red shoes belong to my even more beautiful niece Erica -- she wore these out one night while I was visiting my sister and her family. I thought they would make a perfect Ruby Tuesday shot for this time of the year. Happy New Year!!!!!!!!

Monday Monday

2009-12-28T06:00:00.002-05:00

I saw this house and car one day while out walking with "B" and it just screamed mellow yellow -- Happy Monday :)

Twas the day after Christmas...

2009-12-26T06:11:00.005-05:00

Yesterday was yet another wonderful Christmas day in the chapter of our lives. There is nothing better than being with those you love. Even after all of the shopping and wrapping and the decorating and the baking and the cooking and the long month of preparation when the day comes - none of it really matters except the being together. Hope that you had a joyful day with family and friends.

Merry Christmas

2009-12-25T00:01:00.002-05:00

Wishing You All a Blessed Christmas and a Prosperous and Healthy 2010!!!

Here comes Santa Claus!

2009-12-24T06:00:00.002-05:00

For all of you who are young and who are young at heart - tonight is the BIG night! HOHOHO Merry Christmas To All and To All A Good Night!!!!

Oh Christmas Tree! Oh Christmas Tree!

2009-12-23T06:00:00.002-05:00

At long last the tree is up. I really love it this year - but then I say that every year :)

Christmas Amaryllis

2009-12-22T06:00:00.001-05:00

It's hard for me to believe that I put an ugly brown bulb into a pot the Saturday after Thanksgiving and lo and behold 4 weeks and 2 days later this is what I have to enjoy. This is the first of 3 to open and it's not even all the way there yet I just couldn't wait any longer to take a picture of it. What a glorious thing I have growing right on my kitchen table. If you have never planted an Amaryllis before -- next year when you see those boxes on the shelves as the holiday season begins grab one (it comes with everything you need) and try it for yourself you won't believe your eyes. Merry Christmas!!

Santa and Pups

2009-12-21T07:26:00.003-05:00

Yesterday my daughter and I took her dog Biggie and our two puppies LuLu and Junior to see Santa at a local PetSmart - the people running the "Santa" were from a local shelter and all of the proceeds went to help with their expenses. They were a super nice group of people the manager's son (19 years old) played the jolly old elf himself he was a very patient kid to say the least. The puppies were a bit nervous LuLu shook the whole time Junior took it in stride and Biggie the seasoned professional wasn't even fazed. It was a fun thing to do and the pictures came out great here's a few I snapped on the side. HO HO HO Merry Christmas!!!!!!!

Neighborhood Lights

2009-12-18T06:00:00.000-05:00

Every year our neighbor enters a local boat parade. His displays are always excellent - he makes everything every year from scratch - he even paints all of his lights the custom colors that apply to the theme. This year he took 1st place overall in the Sarasota, FL boat parade and 2nd in the Venice, FL boat parade. If you've never been to a boat parade you should really put it on your list of things to do it really is spectacular. When our children were little we went every year in our own boat and watched from the water. We don't go as faithfully as we used to but, thanks to Mr. N our neighbor we get to have a special display right on our own street. Merry Christmas!!

Drum Roll Please!!!!!!!!

2009-12-16T08:34:00.002-05:00

This is my first ever Blog Award and it comes to me from my dear friend and co-worker Martha of Martha's Menagerie. I can't tell you how much fun I have been having with this little ol' blog. Truly it has been more fun then I ever imagined - I couldn't have done this without Martha's encouragement and mentoring! Believe me there have been times when I was completly lost and she has walked me right through it. I know I have a long way to got.... Thanks to everyone who has left me such encouraging comments - you are all the best. :)

Let it snow let it snow let it snow...

2009-12-13T06:00:00.001-05:00

Well since snow is VERY scarce here in SW Florida every year at Christmas time I hang snow flakes around my house. This is something that I have done every year since my children were little kids. When they were small we used to make paper cut-out snowflakes and hang them in our windows. Now, I just use some of the lovely ones that you can buy in stores. These two little beauties are hanging from one of the shelves in our kitchen I thought the shadow was neat. I hope that you like it and for those of you who have snow on the ground it's in the high 70's here and I wouldn't have it any other way :) Merry Christmas!!!!!

Easy and Fun Gift Idea

2009-12-11T06:00:00.000-05:00

This is the basket that I put together for one of my co-workers. There is some yummy body lotion, spray and wash in there. There is also a Christmas pin and mini stocking - the basket itself is one that could be used on a buffet table to put utensils and napkins in -- that's just one idea. Truth be told the basket was a "hand me down" and all of the stuffings were purchased on sale. I think it gives you a lot of bang for the buck and I'm sure that my friend will enjoy it.

Water Girl

2009-12-08T19:17:00.003-05:00

This little girl spends her days running through a fountian in a local mall. I just love the tilt of her head - to me she looks like this is the most fun! And of course everyone throws pennies "at" her :)

Red Sky in Morn Sailor be Warned

2009-12-08T06:00:00.000-05:00

This is a shot from may back yard one early morning. The sun was just beginning to rise and the colors were spectacular as you can see they were all reds and pinks. This is really one of the best times of day to capture natural beauty.

Not Quite a Shadow Shot

2009-12-06T06:00:00.000-05:00

This was taken one Saturday night at the "drum circle". The "drum circle" as we call is held each Saturday evening on the beach. It's a very nice gathering of people - lots of people. There are several drummers (about 15 to 20) there and they just make a nice melodic beat to the setting of the sun. As the sun gets closer to the horizon they beat faster and faster - it is really a very nice experience. This mother and daughter were getting ready to leave and they were shaking out their blanket. I thought it was such a nice picture of the two of them with the beautiful sky in the background. Not quite a shadow but nice none the less.

Junior/Gerry Garcia

2009-12-05T06:00:00.001-05:00

This is Junior our 9 month old maltese puppy - he is quite a guy - we nicknamed him "Gerry Garcia" because of his "bearded" face and his way laid back ways. He has a sister named LuLu and she is the complete opposite! I thought this picture was just so cute it really looks like he's posing :)

Pretty Pink Puff!

2009-12-04T06:00:00.001-05:00

On one of the recent outings by the waterway B spotted this adorable little pink flower - or weed or what ever I just say "puff" there were a few of these here and there - I don't know what they are called but, they remind me of Horton's puff flower in Horton Hear's A Who one of my favorite Dr. Seuss books. I wonder if there is a little town on there???