MIDDLE OF A SEE-SAW WEEK

HOPE BUTTON ELEMENT

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MATTHEW 5:15

Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl.

Instead they put it on its stand,

and it gives light to everyone in the house.

Yes, I have hope. I have hope that if we all work together we can change this 'ol world! I cannot do it on my own, none of us can. But if you and I work together, and you tell your friends and they tell their friends then we will have the power to make a difference.

Here's one immediate way to make a difference. Share your knowledge. Don't you find when you learn something powerful and new part of you is very excited and wants to share... but then a weensie part of you thinks you shouldn't share it with others because they might take it and get better than you or profit from it? This is so natural. There are forces at work at these times, and its better to nip it in the bud. I ask you at these times to take a deep look within your heart and ask what is your reasoning behind this. You may be surprized to find its purely selfish. Even as adults, we have not really learned to share.

The funny thing is, even if you did share something wonderful you found (eg a good free software program) only one in 10 will ever really do something with it! You don't see our pubic libraries overflowing - and they are free! So you actually CREATE this feeling within yourself. Worse, when you hide it from others you can't actually fully enjoy it, because who do you show?

Think about this - what if we did something novel, like help each other - give each other every single thing and tool to build each other up? What would happen in the business world then? Yes, I know what you are thinking - what if they take your idea and steal it and build on it? Well, you cannot control that, but it happens all the time. Don't let this be your own personal margin or justification for not sharing. Use prudence, and if someone is proven to you in the past to be this way, well then you might have a case.

However, on the other hand, if you help someone, you may even have twinges when you see them doing good with what you introduced them to. This is normal too... there sometimes comes a time when a student surpasses a teacher. I am sure this is both humbling and a huge compliment at the same time. This is the moment when you can conciously make a decision to CELEBRATE your fellow man. Its a learned thing. Remember, talk to God - He knows these things your feeling. Take it to Him and prayerfully ask Him to keep your heart soft and open. Remember, not all friendships are lost when someone rips you off, sometimes its when they actually do better than you. Its uncomfortable. It often causes a rift. Sit down with your friend and explain how you feel. Let them in on it... often you can talk about it and the friend will be touched and work with you on this. I guarantee, if you don't Satan will step in where you don't ask God to be.

MY SWEET NIECES

buttons by Lisa Whitney

BARB'S TIP # 22

Pretty Dish Soap Holder

I saw this tip in an old Martha Stewart magazine and thought it was a terrific idea. Instead of having a regular bottle of dishwashing detergent at the side of your sink, go to the dollar store and buy a beautiful glass bottle - a tall one. Then find a pourer (they use them for liquers) and pop it in the top. Much nicer to look at!

SHINY HAPPY TUESDAY

LANTERN ELEMENT

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John 8:12

When Jesus spoke again to the people,

he said,

"I am the light of the world.

Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness,

but will have the light of life."

I don't have a lot of news today. I actually dragged my dear husband out of bed this morning to go to the BIG yardsale today - only to realize today is not THE FIRST TUESDAY OF THE MONTH. Duh...guess my head has been buried in the scrapbook project I am doing for a friend. Yesterday Miles came home, took one look at me and said I was going for a nap, how bad is that? Nevertheless, the album is coming along nicely and will be worth the effort.

He laughed at me this morning when I told him that he is so handsome that when he is in a store and walks by the magazine racks the models on them run to hide 'cuz he outshines them all...

I thought I would show you one of the treasures I secured this past weekend at a yardsale. Its very unique, and even came with a story (the lady collecting money had owned it previously) Its a fish, made of metal and abalone shells and it came all the way from Spain. It can be stood up on its tail as in the picture. She said it was missing some 'scales' because her grandkids would always play with it.

BARB'S TIP #21

Seek Help

You have a challenge. You want to help someone in an area of their life. You may have struggled with this issue yourself at one time or another, but because we are human, we may have messed up ourselves ... so how to be of help. Well, I think the very best thing to do is to keep a tab on the resources that we come across, which we have found useful.

I'm talking about those sites which, when you read carefully, you say "Oh, if only someone had explained it to me this way!!!" The one site which has really touched me is a site about Purity. After exploring the site I am confident that I can recommend it both to Moms and Dads, and it is perfect for youth groups.

How DO you tell young women in this day in age about being pure and dressing modestly?

I believe if you spend time at Dannah Gresh's PURE FREEDOM SITE you may

find some welcome help. She even has practical things like:

Q: Where can I find the Secret Keeper "Truth or Bare" Fashion Tests.

A: You can download our NEW Locker Poster which includes all of Dannah's popular fashion tests.

They even offer retreats etc... I would love to know what you think

of this site!

TURTLE-ING OUR WAY THRU THE WEEK

CELTIC CROSS BUTTON ELEMENT

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Mom and Dad went home yesterday. I am sure they would have stayed longer, only they knew we have some deadlines to meet. Well, there is a lot to be said about short and sweet. It won't be long and we will meet them on their own turf. Over the weekend we put together a murder mystery puzzle. Its kind of a tradition for us now. Miles has never enjoyed this hobby, so Mom and Dad and I have a two day frenzy of it. I'm excited to see it come out of the box and very happy to see it go back in. While its being assembled I hear about how the other Aunts and Uncles fared with this particular puzzle...and the funny things they said out of frustration w/ it. I hear the really difficult puzzles being wished upon people.

Western Painted Turtle

(click on title to learn more)

We went for a stroll last evening and on our way home we came across this little fella - a Western Painted Turtle - on the pavement! Poor little fella was bumping up against the curb and could have easily been crushed by oncoming traffic. We gave him a little help up to some greenery and hopefully he has found a nice, safe place to live. After reading about him a bit it appears his species is 'blue listed' which means their habitat is slowly disappearing...

I have a busy day planned with helping a friend prepare a scrapbook album for relatives in England. When its complete we will be uploading it to www.mypublisher.com where it will be professionally bound. You all have a wonderful day, and thanks for your encouraging comments. I am working on a few special elements for folks in the background but it will take me a bit - this album comes first. Judy...your gift will take a while yet...

BARB'S TIP # 20

Pretty, Cooling Idea

With the weather warming up again, put fresh berries or mint sprigs into ice cube trays before filling them up. You can also add clear juices instead of water, to make pretty ice cubes. For children you might put a gummy treat in the center ... I know, they do deteriorate after a while of melting...but trust me, usually they don't last long enough for that to happen.

MAKE SUNDAY A FUNDAY

WOODEN BOOKPLATE ELEMENT

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Mom and Dad are enjoying themselves here. We went to garage sales yesterday and found a few treasures. I may feature them here later on in the week. Dad was our chauffer and Miles our navigator. Onliest thing was every time we would go to move onto the next sale Miles would realized he had set the paper listings down at the sale...luckily he was always able to locate it again. We went to about a dozen sales, which is a lot for here.

We took them out to dinner at a very classy restaurant in Kaleden, about an hour's drive away. The food was very good and it was a relaxing time together. I ordered my very favorite - Steak with a peppercorn sauce. We pulled out all the stops on dinner - sometimes you refuse to consider the cost as it can't be counted in dollars. Its a beautiful feeling to share a special place together for a special celebration together. This is our late Mother's Day, early Father's Day gift ... and it was fun to share together.

It was a nice balmy day so we took a few family pictures.

Our Mom and Dad

Me and Daddy

BARB'S TIP #19

Give Someone a Laugh Today

Sometimes laughter is the best medicine - even if there is no problem. I'm sure you know someone who could use a good laugh today... in this case you MUST go to the following website and send them a greeting! (just click on the MONK E-MAIL word) You can pick your chimp, choose the clothes, their location etc...but best of all, you can make your chimp talk...

MONK E-MAIL

A HUNTING WE WILL GO, A HUNTING WWG for bargains, that is..

YELLOW FLOWER ELEMENT

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I think this element would be perfect with the yellow striped paper that was in the Odd Assortment of Papers which I gave a week or so ago... which brings me to the next subject. If you've just found me, if you are downloading elements, you will notice they expire - I think its around a week - and if you're like me, you jusssst missed the very thing you would have liked to have had. Well, you're not out of luck, just email me which particular thing you liked and I will try my very best to get it to you lalalime@hotmail.com I have totally been enjoying meeting you all and love your comments. Please give me your own personal tips for me to share with the world! :)

Mom and Dad arrived yesterday and everything was in order for them - short of cleaning the oven, thats where I drew the line. Oh, there were things I did not get to, but I told myself to put my pride aside - Mom appreciates more that I love and cherish her son than how clean I have our house. Sometimes we get so caught up in looking after the details we miss the BIG picture. Mom and Dad offered to bring in pizza (I HAD planned to make one) but we declined. Oh, to have dinner made and brought in is like THE MOST tempting, but what happened is this: Miles, knowing how busy I have been preparing, took me out for lunch and a foray to the thrift store yesterday. (yes, Mom raised him to be thoughtful to his wife - thank you Mom!) While at the thrift, we saw a set of the sweetest single serving baking dishes ever - brand new! A set of four. A lightbulb went on and I begged Miles to bake the same dish he invented and made for me for mothers day - a seafood/asperagus dish - in the new dishes. I realized we have so little opportunity to cook for Mom, and she's always supplying us with exotic cooking implements and ingredients. Plus, I want her to be proud of Miles ability as a chef! It was a huge success, other than his use of HOT italian sausage which made Mom's nose run.

We are going to garage sales this a.m. thus my early entry. Gotta take care of you folks! We will also drive about the town and show them the Desert Centre and the Inkaneep Desert Centre too. I will post pics tomorrow. Enjoy your weekend!

BARB'S TIP # 18

Lighting the Fire

It has been raining here for a week now - enough now, Lord! lol - actually its ok just till Mom goes home as she can't handle the heat. The rain brings to mind all those folks who are camping about now - they will be huddled about the fire like moths attracted to the lightbulb...Its darn hard to light a good fire in the rain. This tip came to me from my sister in law Judy. She gave me this recipe to make home-made fire starters. Trust me, you will have flames three feet high for three minutes even on wet wood. Withhold this recipe from pyromanics please.

Ok, so start saving paper egg cartons, dryer lint and old candles. When you have an abundance of all, fill the egg carton cups about 2/3 full of dryer lint. Melt the wax and pour over the lint until its fully saturated and the cups are filled to about 3/4 way to the top. Thats it. When this cools you can take it camping and simply tear off a cube or two to use lighting the fire. You'll be thanking me one cold rainy day...

OUR FOLKS ARE COMING!

JEAN'S BUTTERFLY ELEMENT

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Isn't Jean's butterfly special? Jean emailed me about www.desert.org and I said I would make an element specially for her! She says we can share - she musta watched Seasame Street as a kid like me (Sharing! Sharing!) and she says you all can enjoy it with her blessings! She said she liked nature, so a butterfly is what she is getting. So...good incentive...how bout this...if you go to the the desert.org website TODAY and sign the guestbook (just comment only on what you honestly think of the desert site...) and email me lalalime@hotmail.com and tell me what sort of things you like...or you can let me make you a random element...and if you want to share or have it for your own private use...

It's my sister in law Judy's birthday right about....well, right about NOW...even though its not marked on the calendar ... I am MAKING Judy's gift and since I know you are reading this sweet sister... it is going to be late. It should be ready next week sometime, so keep your eyes peeled (that would hurt?)

My mother and father in law arrive today. I am so blessed to have them in my life. We have developed a very special relationship over the years. It was not always roses, there were a few thorns to endure. Us moms can be pretty protective where our sons are concerned, as we want the very best for our children, and I will be the first to tell you I am somewhat opinionated and stubborn at times...and I hate to wait. The Lord has really done a work in my life to come to this place - and what a sweet place it is. Our mom and dad are really THE BEST - I just couldn't appreciate that way back when because I was only looking with my eyes, not my heart.

PROVERBS 17:6

Children's children are a crown to the aged,

and parents are the pride of their children.

So, with this, I must go do the final preperations (make that grocery list for the pizza ingredients!) I'm happy to say its raining outside, as mom is very heat-sensative. Thank you, Lord, as it can be way up there in temperature at this time of the year, being the desert and all.

You all have a great weekend, and I will do my very best to get my blog entry up early each day!

BARB'S TIP # 17

Getting the Wax Out

I will stay with the candle wax theme today - and I can't take credit for this one...I read it in a Martha Stewart mag. If you have burned a votive candle in a holder, and it is STUCK inside and you CANNOT get it out (of course you can dip it in hot water, but that sometimes leaves a waxy residue) instead, put it in the freezer for a few hours and it should pop right out!

A RAINBOW, REALLY, A REAL ONE!

ROSIE B ELEMENT

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Rosie B had an element created specially for her by finding an error at www.desert.org - and she just could'nt keep it to herself, bless her heart. I used my rose picture in it, as it was so fitting for her name. I have a VERY dear friend named Rose, and an Aunt...I guess I'm planted amidst the Roses...

*Jean* You left a message as well, saying the links did not work for you. I will make a custom element for you (and you can share if you like too) but I need you to send me your email address (lalalime@hotmail.com) - Please tell me what kind of a browser you are using??? This is important information for us to know.

Storm over Osoyoos Lake

We had a most amazing storm pass over last night! We were so busy on our computers and heard fierce rain hitting the house and ran to the window to be greeted by a stunning rainbow!

When the storm hit, I was reminded of a song that I love. I think of it as an honest song, because it points out that God does not promise we will never go through rough times, but He does promise He's there for us in those times and we are to trust Him. What do you think of this song?

Sometimes He Calms The Storm

SCOTT KRIPPAYNE

All who sail the sea of faith
Find out before too long
How quickly blue skies can grow dark
And gentle winds grow strong
Suddenly fear is like white water
Pounding on the soul
Still we sail on knowing
That our Lord is in control

Sometimes He calms the storm
With a whispered peace be still
He can settle any sea
But it doesn't mean He will
Sometimes He holds us close
And lets the wind and waves go wild
Sometimes He calms the storm
And other times He calms His child

He has a reason for each trial
That we pass through in life
And though we're shaken
We cannot be pulled apart from Christ
No matter how the driving rain beats down
On those who hold to faith
A heart of trust will always
Be a quiet peaceful place

And of course, afterwards, there is always this beautiful reminder of His Promise:

Rainbow view from our house!

I simply HAD to take time out to scrapbook my little friend Zach. He's adorable, and it was excruciating to watch him eat only the colored beads and icing off this donut without eating any of the donut itself!

Zach and the Donut

Font: Charyn

BARB'S TIP # 16

Keep the Candle - Not Burning!

If you have burnt an especially nicely scented pillar candle and there is quite a bit of wax left, cut it into good sized chunks using a large knife. Tuck the candle bits into your drawers, linen cupboards and even in the toes of stored shoes!

RAINBOW'S END EXTENDED!

RAINBOW CLIP ELEMENT

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Ya, Ya...I know, I thought I was at the end of the rainbow too...but it turned out so nice I could not resist!

You guys are the GREATEST! Your encouraging comments make every day like getting a bunch of Hallmark cards - only better, because your comments are original. I guess we are really just grown up kids...and you remember when you were young and someone said "Good Job", just how much milage you could get out of that. It made all the discouraging stuff fade away for a while. Thanks for the info about the Kit!

So, my DH (if you don't know, its digiscrapping lingo for Dearest Husband) is in BARB'S BOOT CAMP. Our local gym is closed this week for reno's and so his physical workout schedule has been (somewhat reluctant and afraidly) in my hands (he he he!) I've been building up my situps for the last month, you see. I've never done them before. Actually, Miles was the one who always told me they would make the difference. So I started doing 10 at a time during commercials on tv. Now we mostly ever watch an episode or two of Oprah, and the news, so its not that much of a challenge, but over the weeks I've progressed to 15, 20, 25 etc....till now, I'm up to sets of 50, and sometimes up to 6 times a day. I'M SEEING SOMETHING I NEVER SAW BEFORE...its incredible. Really, building up slowly, its honestly not hard now. I break it up in small packets thru the day. When I get up, before I get dressed, before lunch, before supper, if I'm sitting too long at the computer blogging...well, you get the picture! Anyways, I give Miles a huge star...he's right along with me now! We travel for two months in summer and I plan on bringing an exercize mat...thats right, drive one hour, pull over, give me 50! So, this summer if you see something funny on the side of the road, it may be us...

I would have liked to write more on how Miles willingness to do this inspired thoughts on having a willing spirit...and our connection in this way to be not only WILLING to do what God asks of us, but to actually embrace and enjoy serving Him. Like working out, we will see the results in us if we are patient and obedient. More about that tomorrow perhaps, as I have a client (scrapping) coming over any moment.

BARB'S TIP # 16

Putting the Roast On...

There are two ways I do my roasts, because I like quick preparation, and easyness. If I think ahead of time, I simply pop it into the crockpot at 9 a.m. (FROZEN) and it is ready at 5 p.m. If I forget to do this, I can also pop a roast into the oven at 350 degrees for 3 hours (FROZEN)

Now, this will not give you gourmet, chef roasted, pink on the inside, crisp on the outside roast, but it will give you a nicely cooked, tender roast beef. These two ways seem to work for average sized roasts and you can adjust as needed. Also, if you desire you might toss some carrots, parsnips, turnips or potatoes in for the last hour! Voila!

RUNNING OUT OF RAINBOWS!

RAINBOW STRING ELEMENT

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Believe it or not, I am running out of rainbow stuff. I guess I could say we've found the end of the rainbow... Some days do feel like that for me. I have been so blessed. Yes, there are some things I'd like to acquire, but as I'm aging (checkin' to see if you read the past few entries, giggle) I can look back (with wisdom, I hope) and see that God has provided me with things AS I NEED them. I once heard it said that we live life forward and understand it backwards. True for you?

Thank you *rosieb* for letting us know about the guestbook at www.desert.org - Miles has fixed it we hope... If you'all have not had an opportunity to visit the center and download my free Desert Pastel Kit or one of my sweetie's cool desktops from the free section, please do. And DO sign the guestbook, and DO tell us of any errors you find. Comb it over and if you find any mistakes I will personally make you an element of your own. Rosie - send me an email at lalalime@hotmail.com and I will send you an element all of your own!

I had a friend come over last night and learn the joys of digital scrapbooking - we had a wonderful time. We threw a layout together in about 15 mins and now she's hooked. Actually, Jocelyn is auntie to that lil sweetie I scrapped in the Sipping Princess. If you did not get to see that entry, you can search this blog...look up..waaay up (as the friendly giant used to say .... fond childhood memory cutting in...) and in the top left corner of the blog is a search box. Type in Sipping or Princess and Blogger will find it for you.

AUNTIE JOCELYN AND ANJOLIE

Kit: Cuppy's Room from Paper Moons

I wish I could tell you where I downloaded this kit - but I can't open the instructions? If anyone knows where this kit is from, please tell me so I can thank the designer.

BARB'S TIP #15

Ask and You Will Recieve

Do you know the postal people squirrel lots of really neat stamps away in their drawers? In fact, the last time I was in, the clerk said nobody ever asks anymore. I always ask for pretty or unusual stamps when I go in, and they always give me some interesting choices. Well, for myself its not quite so important...but I try to think of the person on the recieving end - so take a moment next time and ask for the real goods. I would love to hear what kind you got. Email me at lalalime@hotmail.com (and good tips too!)

VICTORIA DAY HERE IN CANADA!

RAINBOW STAR ELEMENT

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Today is Victoria Day here in Canada! If you would like to learn more about this historic tradition you may find out HERE.

WOW - I'm getting more traffic here all the time and I'm so enjoying meeting evreyone. I must tell you though, that when you leave a comment, its often coming as 'anonymus' so I don't have any way to reply to you guys! You are more than welcome to email me anytime @ lalalime.hotmail.com or alternately make sure you leave an email in your comment. *Jessica*, I would love to visit your blog too, but I need you to leave me the address tee hee. *Ilona*, thank you so much for your kind comments. Miles fixed the guestbook link at www.desert.org so you can go back and sign it...and he says a big THANK YOU for letting him know. Also, the link for the free Desert Pastel Kit is listed under the Free Stuff links and the link does work - I tested it myself. While there you may enjoy the fabulous new wallpapers my sweetie made too!

Speaking of wallpapers, I created one for my desktop as well with from the first set of photos I took with our new camera. I'm so excited about it - the pictures will be georgeous! Oh, you would like one too? Tee hee...well, let me rustle around here on my 'puter and put two up for you...this is what it will look like for you (I blended the left edge off so you can see your icons well...)

BARB'S ROSE DESKTOP

1600 x 1200 download

1280 x 800 download

When I see a flower in all its perfection I am always reminded of the following scripture...

Matthew 6:29

29Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these.

I have a young woman coming over this evening who I hope to introduce to the world of digiscrapping so I better get things straightened up today. I hope you all have a lovely day. Here's a QUICK scrap - page I created while writing a tutorial for my husband's school. This is my friend Valeries son, her link is listed to the right.

BARB'S TIP # 14

CRISPY PIZZA CRUST

If you make your own pizza crust, sprinkle a little cornmeal on the pan before the crust and you will have a nice crisp crust. However, if you're like me and never have cornmeal on hand, a handful of cornflake crumbs (crushed in the blender) works wonderful too!

ANTIQUE vs DISTRESSED, WHICH IS BEST?

MILE'S SWIRL PIN ELEMENT

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BARB'S SWIRL PIN ELEMENT

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As you can see, my sweet husband had a few moments to play on the computer with me last night, and he made the top element for y'all to enjoy!

I would like to share a thought with you. My thought is an evolution of snippets of conversations and things I've read and things I've seen. Its a thought about the idea of aging. I noticed on the antiques show that the most money is fetched for 'genuine' antiques...ones in their original form, complete with signs of wear. While items which have been lovingly 'restored' bring a good price, they don't compare to a well looked - after original. Many people try to imitate the idea of aging by applying a technique called 'distressing' to an item, but an antiques collector with a discerning eye will not be fooled by this.

And so it is with us as humans. Some people refuse to age natural. They invest a good deal of their time and money into looking younger. Unfortunately, by the time any ways they do this are no longer effective, they are left an empty shell, for their very selves have been consumed with looking/appearing younger and they have not learned how to enjoy the natural gifts God gave us to enjoy our elder years - gifts like wisdom and patience ... and not having to just physcially look younger than our biological years.

Now, of course I am not saying we should not take care of ourselves, after all, even a well looked after antique is worth far more than one left to the elements.

It occured to me that some famous movie stars are no longer real people ... they've sold their souls to look like someone they are not...so they will never realize the person they were meant to be. How very sad.

Cherish the body and mind that you were given - explore what being you means - enjoy the gift God provided by making you, YOU!

I met a lovely young lady at Children's Church this morning, named Lauren, grade 6, and she is promising to share some great tips with us sometime in the near future! Wow, kids are a wealth of information too...

BARB'S TIP # 13

cereal - keep it fresh!

I imagine this tip won't be for everyone, unless you have a large fridge, but here goes... keep any opened cereal in the fridge. You will be amazed that even after a month the cereal tastes like you just opened the box! (unless you forgot to wrap the onion, stored next to it...)

REPOST OF RAINBOW PAPERS

I am soooooo sorry for you folks who were unable to download my papers from Megaload... I really hesitated using it in the first place, but yousendit was not working for me. Please accept my apologies! I've reposted with yousendit this morning, link below this entry. I must tell you that your comments really give me a lift and I appreciate you taking the time to leave them. I will have an extra post today(w/ freebie) - but later on, after Church. I hope you all have a good morning! Thanks for your patience and letting me know! :) Barb Also...if you have an opportunity in your busy day...you might want to slip over to www.desert.org and check it out. My dearest husband created this site (and is the star of the videos lol!) There is a free Desert Pastel Kit there for download as well. PLEASE, send your friends there and MORE IMPORTANT ... please leave a comment on their guestbook (don't put our names, just what you honestly think of the site) ... its good for their ratings. (PS...my talented husband composed and plays all the music on the site!) THANKS IN ADVANCE!

RAINBOW PAPER ASSORTMENT

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DELIVERING THE SATURDAY 'PAPER'...

RAINBOW PAPERS

download re-posted above!

Ok, I have to warn you right off - I could not upload today to yousendit, so I was forced to use another uploading service megaupload. I would rather not, as they are tricky to use popup ads (grrr...) Most of you who have downloaded files from there in the past know how to step thru easily enough but for those you don't it can be frustrating. I promise to try to use yousendit next time if its working for me.

Ah - after a long night tossing and turning ( I dreamed my husband died, how bad is THAT! ) I awe-woke this morning to gentle music and soft rain pattering outside. Yes, I said awe-woke as I was in awe that my dream seemed so real, today feels like an awakening of my spirit and soul to appreciate all he is in my life. I can still feel the chasm, the void in my dream where he used to be there and I can tell you I don't want to be there any time soon. I know today I will cherish every moment with him - exploring every moment knowing that only God knows when it will be our last. My comfort would still be, in this situation, that he would be walking with you on that day. What would you do different today if you knew your loved one would be gone tomorrow?

We had an unexpectedly long day yesterday. We drove to the city, one hour away, to purchase a camera. We had a quote, money etc but when we arrived at the store of our choice they could not exactly accomodate us - surprizing in a large chain store that the employee did not have the means to get a large order like this approved - turning out to be a big sale loss for them... We ended up having to drive one hour further to Kelowna, but it was for the best. We ended up saving a significant amount of money. We are looking forward to using the camera, however it's probably best that its a rainy day so we can accomplish some goals first...

I hope you have a wonderful day!

BARB'S TIP # 12

saute your asperagus

Most everyone I know BOILS asperagus, but truly you miss out on so much of the flavor and goodness of it this way. With asperagus in season and reasonably priced at this time of the year, take advantage of it! To get the best flavor from your asperagus, test with your knife along the stems, from the bottom...when your knife hits a more tender spot, slice the whole bottom off the bunch, generally 2 to 3 inches. Now, cut the rest into nice 1- 2 inch slices and put in a deep non-stick frying pan with 2 tbsp butter and 2 cloves of garlic (peeled and sliced in 1/2) Saute for a few minutes until the butter starts to disappear. Add two tablespoons of water and cover for three or so mins. Remove cover, add 1/2 tsp butter and saute until tender and bright green. You can also cook the asperagus with sliced mushrooms, in this case you don't need to add liquid as the mushrooms create their own.

I think you will agree this is the perfect way to cook asperagus!

CHARMS AND 'NOT SO CHARMED'

GEL CHARMS ELEMENT

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I hope you enjoy these charms as much as I enjoyed making them! Every day is a new discovery in my little digital world. If I can have so much fun making these I close my eyes and imagine our Creator molding us! We are told He delights in us...

On the NOT SO CHARMING end of things, we awoke this morning to a very altered view from our kitchen window. To now we have enjoyed a clear view of beautiful Osoyoos Lake, but we've known for some time there will be some condo's built across the road. Unfortunately, though there is plenty of space that they could have been built in such a way as to not obstruct our view, they are planning on making them so tall that we will lose it, almost completely. Sigh. (Not to mention this totally affects resale of this house now it has been robbed of a lakeview) Instead of being upset I am choosing to be thankful for the time we have had to enjoy the lakeview.

I am just delighted to be putting some of my layouts at CWO - and possibly other projects too. I will keep you posted! I hope to get to know new friends!

Today's entry is brief as we are heading off to the city today. I hope you all have a wonderful day!

BARB'S TIP # 11

USE FRESH HERBS IN SALADS

I keep both a bunch of cilantro and parsley in pretty glasses or wineglasses on my kitchen counter. Not only are they lovely and fresh, they are handy to toss into almost any dish! Especially nice is tossing cilantro right in with your salads - with a little fresh squeezed lemon or lime and sea salt ... mmmm When basil is available in summer I really go wild with fresh leaves in my salads. In a pinch, when I've had no lettuce available, and sometimes just to punch up a sandwhich, I use cilantro or basil instead ... it adds an amazing flavor!

CHAIN TODAY - CHARMS TOMORROW!

SILVER CHAIN

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A plain silver chain today - and something very special tomorrow, to hang on this chain (hint: still working with my rainbow theme!) Chains have this meaning for me - they remind me that a price was paid that I might enjoy the freedom I have - this freedom even to share with you!

PSALM 116:16

O LORD, truly I am your servant;

I am your servant, the son of your maidservant ;

you have freed me from my chains.

If you are new to my blog you will see the links to my elements only last a week before they expire. If you find an expired element you missed, please leave me a comment with your email and I will try my best to get it to you!

It's Thursday which is the day I volunteer and help Miles work with the the gifted/homeschool extra curricular students in the district. It's wonderful to see what the kids accomplish. Their minds are so creative and they are completly unafraid to try 'stuff' on the computers. It has taken me a few years to be unafraid to try 'stuff'... but its through the experimention that I have grown in many areas. It has been a blessing to be around these young minds! We mostly work with FREE software, so if you're a homeschooling Mom and would like to know what we're teaching and how you can get it for your children, leave me a comment with your email and I will get in touch with you.

I have been added onto the Christian Women Online's blog ring, and have added one member to my links as well - hello Camy! Please take a moment to visit the sites! I will be submitting a scrapbook layout for CWO as well and will let you know when this happens. Its all very exciting to me really.

BARB'S TIP # 10

mentor!

This is sort of a selfish tip.

The Lord placed in my heart a long time ago, the desire to mentor to a younger woman. This scripture spoke LOUDLY to me:

TITUS 2:4

3Likewise, teach the older women to be reverent in the way they live,

not to be slanderers or addicted to much wine,

but to teach what is good.

4Then they can train the younger women to love their husbands and children,

5to be self-controlled and pure,

to be busy at home,

to be kind,

and to be subject to their husbands,

so that no one will malign the word of God.

I prayed for over a year that a young woman from our church would desire to spend time with me. I invited several, many times, but nothing came to fruit. Then, one day, about 6 months ago, I invited Janice, our Youth Pastor's wife to come spend time with me on Tuesdays and she accepted. It turns out this is a double blessing as she lives out of town on a ranch and was basically having to kill some time on Tuesdays! She has two beautiful sons, one who attends pre-school and one just being a full time 2 year old (lol!)

Janice has been such a blessing to me. At first I was afraid she would find me boring, but our freindship has been anything but. We've spent time together and I've been able to teach her to scrapbook and share wisdom I've gathered over my years as a wife and mom. She, in turn has taught me things too, and I am so grateful. Jan's mom does not live here, but I've met her and I'm so glad I can 'stand in' for her.

Won't you look around and see if you know a young lady or mom who could benefit from your wisdom and experience? Trust me, you will grow in ways you cannot imagine too. I believe a real danger in our times is to become seperated into age groups, living in our own comfort zones. Trust God and step out to share with someone younger - today?

MY FAVORITE SUBJECT - FRAMED!

RAINBOW FRAME (MILES NOT INCLUDED)

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It reached 34 degrees here yesterday - record temperatures set all over western Canada! Keeps up like this I will only have to put stuff outside on the cement to slow cook - lol!

I was out-of-sorts yesterday for some reason, but Thank the Lord I'm blessed with a husband who is sensetive to my every emotional nuance... and pursues peace at all costs...

To brighten up YOUR world, please visit this link HERE - I hope it touches you and you will share with someone who needs it (OK, so I will go watch it again!)

Papers: Late Night Scrap by Sonya Johnston

Template: Melissa Renfro

Charm, Buttons, Ribbons, Flower and Tags by Mrs. Schmuck

Notepaper and Staple: Gina Miller's Build Your Own Bulliten Board Kit.

Doodle: DDE Creative Team

This is Abigail digging in her Gramma's garden, Gramma being my sweet Sister in Law. To see more of her lovely family you can visit her blog HERE.

Be tuned here tomorrow for more Rainbow Elements matching the ones you've downloaded this week!

BARB'S TIP # 9

keeping the tweezers handy

I've found it invaluable to keep a pair of tweezers in our vehicle. Trust me - bright sunshine is better than any makeup mirror you may have in your home. Next time you're waiting for husband/children etc while in your car, its a great time to check out your eyebrows.

PS. Promise never to do this while driving!

GOT TUESDAY BUTTONED UP!

RAINBOW BUTTON ELEMENT

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My plan is to brighten up your world all this week with rainbow elements! I would love to see how you use them! I've only been invited to see one set of layouts using my elements so far - at my sister Judy's blog. Let me tell you, seeing them used it good fuel for creating more - and remember, if you have requests I am open, though I can't promise...Secondly - I THRIVE ON COMMENTS! A visual, verbal acknowledgment means I'm not throwing them out into outer space... ;)

Well, Janice recieved her wonderful Chef Canisters (backtrack about 1 wk), though not in person. Poor girl had to stay home from Church due to her child having pink eye. We've all had our bouts with childhood illnesses - and its sounding like the youngest is getting gooky...and comlications with a cough too. See, thats what Mother's do... Anyways, her husband took the canisters home and presented them as for us - Janice is delighted and assures me they have a special place in her home. I feel so blessed that I was able to find them for her.

Just a note of interest - there is a lot of slang these days and it came to my mind the other day that it seems the word 'sketchy' has been bantered around a lot. I knew it would not be in the miraim-webster and I thought that with parents of teens there must be a resource available where one can keep up with the language our kids are developing. There is...here's a link to the URBAN DICTIONARY You look it up yourself. Some of the words and their meanings are well, I wanna know, but I don't? Don't blame me for the content please, but on the other hand, if our kids are saying it, shouldn't we know what they are saying?

BARB'S TIP # 9

use the new 'Tide To Go'

This tip was given to me by my sister Nina, and also my friend Jan uses either this exact product or something similar called a 'magic stick'... whatever, I have seen it in action on Janice. She wore a white T out to Tim Horton's to have an Ice Cappucino, with a youngster alone, who was drinking juice. The stick was in overtime mode and did an admirable job.

A RAINBOW TO CHEER YOUR MONDAY!

RAINBOW ELEMENT

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If you are visiting my blog for the very first time you will see that I post my elements every day (that I can) using yousendit - so the links are only good for about a week at a time. I don't have time to go back and edit the links out - but if there's something you especially liked just let me know which thing in particular and email me at lalalime@hotmail.com with your request with ELEMENT in the subject line and I will TRY my best to get it to you. Thanks for visiting my blog!

This element may not look like much in the picture but its actually very sweet. You can use it to add a magical touch to your layouts. On a darker back ground the colors become more intense. I've only added the sky and clouds in this demonstration picture to show you what it might look like - but a rainbow could mean many things! This is what a rainbow makes me think of:

GENESIS 9:16

Whenever the rainbow appears in the clouds,

I will see it and remember

the everlasting covenant between God

and all living creatures of every kind on the earth."

Wow - what contrasts, right from Mother's Day, being pampered (I pray you were) to Monday and all the 'stuff' that needs to be done. What a wake up call! However I've honestly tried to enjoy even the drudge jobs. Its just so easy to feel resentful sometimes when you're down there cleaning the ring around the tub or something that will be the same next Monday... What I have discovered is that if I can prayerfully be grateful for the fact that I do have a bathtub, of my own, in my own place (rented actually, but nice) and I can make my bathroom look any way I desire and simply sllllowwww down and knowing I HAVE to do this mundane chore anyway, I can actually cause myself to enjoy it. Truly, the next time you do the dishes, choose to enjoy the feel of the water spilling over your hands, the squeaky clean-ness of the dishes, the warmth of the water etc... We are so often robbed of enjoying the simple things because of being rushed. Know what you are doing DOES make a difference. If you don't think so, try serving up breakfast on yesterday's plates and see what reaction you get. ha ha

My Sweet Husband, even tho we are busier than rats in a cheese factory, took time out yesterday to Celebrate Me. He made me a fabulous Italian Hot Pot which was rich and aromatic with olives, shrimp, feta cheese and tarragon. A salad and dessert wrapped it all up in a complete spoiling of me. Top it with a view second to none - we live in Osoyoos BC which has THE most stunning valley views on both sides. We drove up to the viewpoint and dined in our van while the sun dipped down below the horizon and the town lit up like jewels on velvet at our feet. *sigh*

Specatacular View of Osoyoos, BC

Middle: Miles Italian Hot Pot

Bottom: Dessert Made by My Sweet

BARBS HANDY HINT # 8

line drying shirts

Its so much nicer to dry things outside on a line - they smell so fresh and clean! Next time you have dress shirts to dry, simply hang them wet on a plastic or plastic coated hangar, button up the top button, then hang the hangar right on the line, securing it in place with a clothespin. When its dry you can hang it straight up in the closet!

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!

MMM... MUSHROOM ELEMENT

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Happy Mothers Day to All - I hope you get Royally Spoiled! My Dearest is making me a dinner-to-go and has promised to drive me 'somewhere with a view' to enjoy the evening. Woo Hoo!

PAPERS AND RIBBON: TBLA March24 Friday Freebie

PIN NOTE PAPER: Build Your Own Bulliten Board Kit by Gina Miller

FLOWER: Paper Moons Craft Flowers

FIBERS STITCHES AND CHIPBOARD LETTERS: my own creations

FONT: ck marissa

Say Hello To Hannah! I made this layout for my Sister In Law Judy. Her husband (my brother!) is a wonderful woodworker and he turns out a toybox for each of his grandchildren!

BARB'S TIP #7

be nice to your spouse

Actually, this advice comes from my husband, and I've tested it and found it to be true. If you would like your spouse to do something, or when making a request, or giving critique - wrap your arms around your spouse and gently, calmly make your statement. You will get a better response. Comments and requests made 'on the fly' with no eye or skin contact don't mean much.

WHEW - THE WEEKEND HAS ARRIVED!

CHEERY CHERRY ELEMENT

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Yesterday was a "shhhhhh..." day. Miles was grinding away in the corner on a proposal he had a deadline for. I keep forgetting and chatting away at him in one ear about the most trivial of things. After a bit of it I start hearing some growling and gnashing of teeth and when the arms begin to flail I get the message very clearly. When his feathers become unruffled I give him peace and quietude. He eventually finished and I proofed it all for him. Next we straightened ourselves and the house a bit and headed to the city to submit the proposal.

Now, I have a confession...I have had to retype this entire blog TWICE as I lost my first version...and I did the same little monkey dance of frustration as Miles does when he's busy...ironic, no?

On our trip north Miles stopped to get THE photograph in a nicely wooded area - he stopped on the way home as well at the Desert Centre to take a panorama at dusk. At one of these two locations (and I would like to think it was the latter, timewise) he picked up a few companions. It IS spring and it is the Okanagan...so he wound up giving a few ticks a ride home. He discovered this when we arrived home - did the little dance etc. We cannot figure how they got only on his t shirt which was under his jacket - both black.

All Elements from Gina Miller's Build Your Own Bulliten Board Kit

Paper is my own creation

Like my latest scrapbook layout? My sweet, dear, lovely, warm, outgoing and generous friend Gina secured it for me and we have laboured for days trying to send and recieve its various bits and zips. I worked with what I have to make this layout. Gina, thank you sooo very very much for your kindness - it makes my heart all warmily.

I made Miles my own biscuit recipe for breakfast - I would like to share:

BARB'S BREAKFAST BISCUITS

2 c flour

1/4 cup crushed stuffing mix

3 tsp baking powder

1/2 tsp salt

lots of freshly ground pepper

1/4 cup bacon bits

1/4 cup snipped grn onion

1/4 c cold marg

3/4 c moo

grated cheese for topping

Preheat oven to 450 degrees. In bowl mix flour, stuffing mix, bk powd, salt, pepper, bacon bits and green onion. GRATE cold marg into flour mix using a cheese grater. Mix genltly till crumbly. Toss in milk and mix well till all dry is gone. Flatten to 1.5 inches tall, cut into biscuits - place on cookie sheet. Top with grated cheese. Bake for 10 - 12 mins.

You may want to print this recipe out. If you do, you most likely want to print ONLY this recipe out. Here's how to do this (and this is good for everybody to know...)

BARB'S HELPFUL HINT # 6

how to print a selection of text

1. highlight JUST THE TEXT YOU DESIRE TO PRINT.

2. on your browser choose File and then Print

3. choose the dialogue box that says Selection

WHEW - A WEEK LIKE THAT CAN LEAVE YOU WEAK!

HERE'S MY SPOUT TEACUP ELEMENT

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I wouldn't leave you with 1/2 a set, so I set about creating a matching teacup for you.

Well Kristin - thanks for you standing me up I actually took on two dresser drawers yesterday and took more stuff TO the thrift store than I brought home. Two out of the three items I brought home were not for myself, and one item actually never made it home at all but was delivered right to my friend Rose. Rose has long thirsted over (pun) a darling little teapot I bought some time ago and said "Hey, if you ever get tired of that..." Well Honey, that aint never going to happen because Miles actually likes it. Yesterday my eye lighted upon a most adorable little teaset made to look like a bunny rabbit. Yes, he had a mended ear, but if you know Rose, you know this will only make it more lovable to her. We met her outside of the Laundry where she spends most of her waking hours, besides DQ where another portion is spent and gave her this treasure.

The other item of interest was a v. cool ceramic set - spotted by Janice on our last visit. She was going to buy them but was short $, you know? Her plan was to track down her husband and secure the cash...however my next visit, whaddya know, there they sat. I snapped them up for her, won't she be surprized. (Annie, if you read this, you HUSH girl! - your kitchen decor was her inspiration to desire this in the first place!)

JAN'S AWESOME ITALIAN SET

Yesterday afternoon and evening were both devoted to helping Miles. In the afternoon I helped at the Learning Centre - showing a student how to scrapbook. As she was a beginner it was intense for two hours, though she learned fast. The evening was spending time setting up and working with homeschool students - we taught them how to make movies using a program called Movie Magic. The kids did great, but we were exhausted by the end of it all.

BARB'S TIP # 6

Roasting Garlic

Next time you throw something to bake in the oven (not something sweet) simply toss a whole head of garlic onto the rack as well. After an hour take it out and let it cool. Store in an airtight container in your fridge. There are so many uses for this wonder - spread it on toasted, buttered buns, whirl it with oil and vinegar and spices or substitute the oil and vinegar with mayo for a delicious salad dressing. Add some to your mashed potatoes. It adds an awesome flavor to many dishes - tell me your ideas too!

TEA ON THURSDAY

HERE'S MY HANDLE, HERE'S MY SPOUT ELEMENT

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When you use this element in a layout, it would be a nice touch to create some 'steam swirls' using a nice soft brush and backing off the opacity!

So its looking a little 'dodgey' outside... perhaps this will be a nice day to enjoy a cuppa tea. I had a date with my friend Kristin - we were going to explore the joys of Microsoft Expressions together...however, Kristin did what I usually do - she double booked herself. If her weather is not looking too bad she hopes to visit Ft. Steele today. That is a very interesting place, Miles and I have visited there, only it was offseason so there was not much action at the time. I would like to make up some exciting news for you about yesterday, but truly it was just a blur at this point. We are meeting deadlines so almost every minute is accounted for...I did not even clean out one cupboard or drawer, but today I plan on hitting one drawer, and taking SOMETHING to the thrift instead of opposite!

I would like to share Gina's recipe...now, I honestly have not tried it myself yet...but it sounds mouthwatering and I plan on making it very soon. She does caution it is not for the faint of toungue if you add hot chili peppers. I cannot give the link to her blog at this time because they are updating at the blog server and so you would be sent to a blank page...but I will post it asap.

Chili Cheese Appetizers

½ c. margarine
10 eggs
½ c. flour
1 tsp. baking powder
1/4 tsp. salt
8 oz. green chilies, chopped
1 pt. cottage cheese
1 lb. Jack cheese, grated

Blend in blender:
½ c. margarine
10 eggs
½ c. flour
1 tsp. baking powder
1/4 tsp. salt

Mix together in a large bowl:
8 oz. green chilies, chopped
1 pt. cottage cheese
1 lb. Jack cheese, grated

Add blended mixture to bowl ingredients and stir well.
Pour into greased 10x13 pan. Bake at 400 for
15 minutes. Reduce heat to 350. Bake 30 minutes
longer. Cut into squares. Freezes well.

And now, time for my tip - and I will keep going with the food theme:

BARB'S TIP # 5

ANOTHER USE FOR JELLY POWDER

Miles and I had pancakes for supper yesterday (isn't it always funner to have breakfast stuff for dinner?) I did not have any syrup so I searched the far recesses of my cupboards until I had an 'aha!' solution. As I wanted to top the hotcakes with strawberries I simply sprinkled the sliced berries with about 4 tbsp of raspberry jelly powder and cooked them for about 2 or so minutes on high in the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds. This made a delish topping - sorta like fresh freezer jam flavour. What I appreciated is the fruit was still half crisp and the syrup capturing the natural juice flavor of the strawberries.

By the way... if your little one or loved one has the flu and you want to give them something tasty and healthy to drink for fluids, you can make a 'hot jelly' drink by simply taking the jelly powder, mixing to taste in a cup of hot water...its soothing and will not upset the tummy!

I would love to publish your recipes and tips! Please email me at lalalime@hotmail.com

put 'recipes and tips' in the subject line

also, if you have missed one of my earlier elements email me with 'missed element' in the subject line and I will email it to you!