Tiffany's Hand Painted Love Boxes...

Father & Son...

2012-02-03T12:39:00.000-08:00

Custom Family Portraits in Peg Dolls by...

Hand Painted Love Boxes

Go Gators!

2012-02-02T12:06:00.000-08:00

Go GATORS!!! or Florida State... :)

Custom Wedding Cake toppers

HandPaintedLoveBoxes

The Red Hunter by William F. Buckley

2012-02-02T11:57:00.000-08:00

William F. Buckley was about the only defender of Senator Joe McCarthy. I miss William F. Buckley, the founder of the National Review and really the Conservative movement. He died at work at his desk in 2008. President Regan said of him, "You didn’t just part the Red Sea — you rolled it back, dried it up and left exposed, for all the world to see, the naked desert that is statism,” Mr. Reagan said.

“And then, as if that weren’t enough,” the president continued, “you gave the world something different, something in its weariness it desperately needed, the sound of laughter and the sight of the rich, green uplands of freedom.” I really miss him during great political contests like the one we are embroiled in right now. It is this contest that has me interested to go back and read some of Buckley's thoughts.

It was Buckley's firm belief that socialism and communism were the great enemy of our country and I agree with that more every day. In this book, Buckley talks about McCarthy's investigations into people and organizations that were determined to be loyalty security risks. Loyalty security is still something that is tested in our country. Long questionnaires, interviews and investigations are required to participate in government work at a security level. We would not want someone who is having a secret affair, a closeted gay, someone deep in debt to serve in a position where they could be blackmailed. In addition to that, it mattered to McCarthy and a great number of Americans as they learned the truth about Stalin and his communist regime that America also be protected against communist ideologies.
Sadly, McCarthy had his own problems. Addicted to drink and with an Iago whispering horrid advice in his ear, he fell from a high place besmirching his own name and all the work he had done.

Today, communism in our country doesn't often go by that name, but it exists in the highest offices in the land. You still can't get a security clearance and be deep in debt or ironically an alcoholic... but you can hold any office while supporting policies that are responsible for enslaving millions.

A very interesting read indeed.

One Day...

2012-02-02T10:58:00.000-08:00

In many ways this film was really well done. Just watching Anne Hathaway's changing hair and costumes kept my interest since it takes place during my own coming of age decades. But, though I'm also old enough to be a little more of a realist than a romantic. In high school and college.. this would have been a five hanky movie... no more.

With age and wisdom, this film is more of a cautionary tale. Love is a choice. Choose wisely. Instead of a love story, I saw a woman who wasted her life on a Heathcliff. Do you read Wuthering Heights as a cautionary tale? When my daughter reads Wuthering Heights, I might show her this film. Well, apparently, that's all I have to say about that.

Official Trailer...

Red Tails... The Tuskegee Airmen

2012-01-21T17:22:00.000-08:00

TRAILER:

I love this movie. It could have been better. It could have had a much tighter script although there were some really fun lines. It could have had greater depth in the character development. There is some language and a small love scene where one of the actors is standing at the window with his girlfriend who is wearing a short silk nighty and it's made obvious they've been sleeping together. I say this right out because other than that, I think this a really great movie for kids, especially boys (although my girls loved it!) I really want to take all my nephews to see it. It is PG-13 mostly for war violence, but to me (I've seen a lot of war films) it's very minor stuff. This is NOT Band of Brothers. For example, one of the airmen is captured by the Germans which could be a terrifying scene.. it's not. They do make one of the German Pilots a very 2 dimensional stereotypical "bad guy" snarly, surly and racist of course.

There isn't a ton of depth written into any of the characters. This is a George Lucas Film so think Star Wars. But, it's a handsome group of very fine actors and they do a great job with it. The film is made to showcase just a few of the accomplishments of the AWESOME Tuskegee Airmen and it just makes you want to stand up and cheer. The special affects are really stunning to me. I would think all of the flying scenes have to be computer animation and they are amazing. If you have a 6-16 year old boy in your family.. you really might want to consider taking them to this in a theater with a NICE, BIG screen.

There are so many stories of courage like this in American History that could be told and should be told on the big screen.. Hats off to George Lucas for choosing this one! I hope it will be a huge hit for him.

Hooray!

Pioneer Woman's Flat Apple Pie...

2012-01-21T16:51:00.000-08:00

Video at KSL I have to put this recipe here so it doesn't get lost.. It seems really important :)

Pioneer Woman's Flat Apple Pie

Ingredients:

5 peeled & sliced Granny Smith apples
2 tbsp. flour
Juice of 1/2 lemon
1/2 c. sugar
1/2 c. brown sugar, packed
1/4 tsp. salt
1 recipe Perfect Pie Crust
6 tbsp. butter

Method:

1. Preheat oven to 375-degrees. 2. In a large bowl, stir together the apples, flour, lemon juice, granulated sugar, brown sugar and salt. Set aside.
3. Roll out two pie crusts into large circles. Place the circles on large baking sheets.
4. Place half the apple mixture on one crust and other half on the other crust.
5. Fold over the edge of each crust so that it covers 2-3 inches of the apple mixture. No need to be artistic - the more rustic the better.
6. Dot the tops of the pies with chunks of butter.
7. Bake for 30-40 minutes, until the filling is golden and bubbly. If the crust appears to brown too quickly, cover the edges with aluminum foil for the remaining baking time.
8. All to cool slightly, then slice into wedges with a pizza cutter. Eat ‘em on the go!
Variation: For extra sweetness, drizzle on jarred caramel topping after removing the pie from the oven.
(makes 2 pies)

Pioneer Woman's Perfect Pie Crust

Ingredients:

3 c. flour
1 tsp salt
1 ½ c. vegetable shortening
1 egg
5 tbsp. cold water
1 tbsp. distilled white vinegar

Method:

1. Combine the flour and salt in a large bowl. 2. Add in the shortening. Using a pastry cutter, gradually work the shortening into the flour until the mixture resembles tiny pebbles. This should take 3-4 minutes.
3. Lightly beat the egg with a fork, then add it to the mixture. Next, add the cold water and vinegar.
4. Stir the mixture together until it's just combined, then remove half the dough from the bowl.
5. Place in a large plastic bag (do not seal) and slightly flatten with a rolling pin. After flattening, seal the bag tightly. Freeze. (Repeat to freeze second half.)
6. When you're ready to use a crust, remove one from the freezer and allow it to sit on the counter to thaw slightly, about 20 minutes. Remove from the bag and place on a lightly floured surface.
7. With a rolling pin, begin rolling the dough from the center, outward. Be gentle and patient; it'll take a little time to get the dough completely rolled out.
8. If you think the bottom is really sticking to the surface below, use a nice, sharp spatula to loosen it and sprinkle some extra flour on top.
9. Flip it over to finish rolling. Remember to roll from the center in single, outward strokes; no back-and-forth rolling.
10. Again with spatula, loosen and lift the pie crust and carefully lay it over a pie pan. Using your hand, lightly form the crust so that it fits inside the pan and overlaps the edges.
11. Tuck excess dough under itself above the rim.
12. Apply decorative effects to the edge.
13. Fill with filling and bake according to pie recipe's directions. For a pre-baked crust, fill with weights (or pinto beans placed on aluminum foil) and bake at 400-degrees for 10 minutes, or until golden.
(makes two to three 9-inch pie crusts)

All the Single Ladies...

2012-01-11T07:43:00.000-08:00

Valentine Kokeshi Dolls and or Ornaments available...

Love Boxes Shop...

Homemade Tub & Shower Cleaner...

2012-01-03T19:31:00.000-08:00

I used 6 oz of soap and 6 oz of vinegar. And frankly, it stinks to high heaven.. But, it also works far better than anything else I've ever used. And, I've used them all. Next time I might try Lemon Joy.. just because I like the smell better. Hopefully it comes in a non-Antibacterial because I don't like putting those soaps down the drain. But, this stuff is almost scrub free. There was a little left after I sprayed the showers and tubs.. so I went back to the master shower, added some warm water to the spray bottle and sprayed down the glass door. The verdict is still out. I love cheap, easy solutions like this. Try it!

HERE...

March Bride...

2012-01-03T14:57:00.000-08:00

Custom Wedding Cake Toppers from:

Hand Painted Love Boxes...

A step up...

2011-12-30T08:02:00.000-08:00

Love Boxes Shop...

Christmas Lights at Temple Square...

2011-12-28T10:17:00.000-08:00

Our family activity for the 2nd Day of Christmas...

My favorite package this year...

2011-12-28T10:06:00.000-08:00

Caroler in Blue...

2011-12-28T09:54:00.000-08:00

Custom Caroler Peg Doll

Love Boxes Shop

Family Portrait...

2011-12-28T09:52:00.000-08:00

Custom Family Portraits in Peg Dolls...

Love Boxes Shop

Caroler in blue...

2011-12-12T06:37:00.000-08:00

Love Boxes Shop...

Park City Show...

2011-12-08T14:49:00.000-08:00

The Park City Show was an adventure.. a lot of work and I am exhausted. But, I learned a LOT... so if I ever become this insane again... I'll know more what I'm doing.

THE Boutique is THIS Week...

2011-12-05T05:11:00.000-08:00

Please come...

The Mrs.

2011-12-05T04:51:00.000-08:00

Love Boxes Shop...

Biggest Loser hits the North Pole...

2011-11-24T19:17:00.000-08:00

Santa Peg doll...

Love Boxes Shop...

Santa Baby!

2011-11-21T08:24:00.000-08:00

Love Boxes Shop...

Doodles...

2011-11-21T08:12:00.000-08:00

Baby Great Dane...

We had fun doodling in Stake Conference... We got permission from our Stake President :) Sorry L. spent almost the entire meeting exercising (taking laps around the building) so she didn't submit any art work for this post. It was a great meeting.

Park City Day School "Girls Night Out" Shopping Bazaar...

2011-11-15T09:25:00.000-08:00

LoveBoxes will be there... hope to see you! :)

Every time a bell rings...

2011-11-07T16:49:00.000-08:00

an angel gets her wings!

These angels and more friends will be available in the

LovE Boxes ShoP...

now.. or if you'd like to visit them in person there will be a boutique

December 7th at The Yard in Park City, Utah from 6-9 PM

ABC Letter Bean Bags...

2011-11-02T08:42:00.000-07:00

I made this as a Christmas Gift for one of my children... It looks like about hours worth of work, but no... it took about a day and a half to make these. I sure hope they become a favorite toy! Whew.

If you are nutty and want to make these too.. I used these free printables for the letters HERE... And, I love to use plastic poly pellets for the beans because it makes the toy washable, which we need around here, but you could use rice or beans if you wanted. I used two layers of cheap white flannel in between to make them hold their shape better and red thread so that the letters would look a bit outlined. Not difficult, just time consuming.

Foamy Soap...

2011-11-02T08:31:00.000-07:00

I love foamy soap at my house. It's not as hard on your skin as others soaps. But, it's about $3.00 a bottle last time I checked which would equate to almost $6.00 per week for my family. Pricey for soap. The thing is that the "foamy" is a property of the dispenser rather than the soap and it's easy to make. I buy this Dawn Pink Dragon Fruit because I like pink at my house, but you can make all kinds of colors.

Fill the empty containers with just under 1/4 to 1/2 inch of liqued soap and finish it off with warm water. This brings your price closer to 29 cents per bottle. And it makes it so that you don't have to buy anti-bacterial handsoap.

Easy.

Fall wrapping...

2011-11-02T08:21:00.000-07:00

Red Roses: Custom Kokeshi Cake Toppers...

2011-10-09T20:34:00.000-07:00

Makes Me Happy...

2011-10-07T08:54:00.000-07:00

I have no idea why, but this treasury has received about five times as many hits as the White Western Treasury that made the front page (which is a big deal.. I'm still giddy about it). Maybe people want to look at happy things. But, one thing is for sure. These are vendors who do the most excellent work a rare and beautiful thing in this world.

Big C having a great time in SV...

2011-09-27T09:58:00.000-07:00

Love this handsome, smart, tough guy...

Lovely Perfume...

2011-09-15T19:22:00.000-07:00

I don't wear perfume. I don't like it when others wear perfume because they wear too much or they try on every single one on the counter (MOM!) or the kind they wear gives me a headache.. I wore this stuff today. It smells really good and it doesn't give me a headache. I like it. Good job Jennifer!

Dreaming of Paris...

2011-09-15T19:17:00.000-07:00

Paris makes me think of Red...

Etsy Inspiration board & vendor links HERE...

Larry Crowne...

2011-09-15T19:12:00.000-07:00

Full disclosure. I went to this film with a group of my best good friends and there were mixed reviews. But, I loved this movie. At first I thought so much of it was just too implausible to even consider. Who goes to their speech class and falls in love with the teacher who happens to look exactly like Julia Roberts. Then, I remembered the many friends I've have, every bit as gorgeous, who have been left by jerks. I was impressed that in this one Hollywood film, they admit that pornography has victims and they are not just the objectified women in the pictures. When I started thinking about some of the divorces that I know any details about.. pornography was a problem in most of them.
Who joins a scooter gang whose mission is to Feng shui everything and make it beautiful... umm.. I'd LOVE to! :)
The themes of being divorced, down-sized and broke are pretty depressing, but they are reality for so very many people around our country right now. The answer to healing our broken country has a lot to do with healing it's homes.. but a Feng shui scooter gang couldn't hurt. See it!

September 11...

2011-09-11T16:09:00.000-07:00

These words written by Tony Snow gave me some comfort 10 years ago.. I think it's appropriate to re-post them...

Good and evil almost never express themselves as harshly and clearly as they did Tuesday morning. People we don't know slaughtered people we do, and they did it with contemptuous glee.

Yet, even as clouds of dust and smoke rose from the from the rubble, even as family members tortured by hope and doubt took to the streets with pictures and pleas; even as mobs celebrated in Gaza, Cairo and Bagdad something shook itself to life.

That something was a sense of ourselves. Kindness flourished amid the flames. A couple carried a disabled man down 68 flights of stairs. A priest crouched to give last rites as a mighty tower collapsed and the hand of God closed about him. A man and woman, their hope gone, held each other and leaped. A solitary candle, a flag, a tear. These are the tokens of our renewal.

The United States had a spirit even before it had a name-- one of faith and freedom; of ambition tempered by public piety. We once were a nation of neighbors and friends. We are again today. We were once a nation of hardship-tested dreamers. We are again today. We once were a nation under God. We are again today. Our enemies attacked one nation,. They will encounter another for they underestimated us.

Today, in our grief and rage; our determination and hope, we have summoned what is best and noblest in us; The kinship that awes our enemies and friends alike. We are again -- Americans.

Sunday, September 16, 2001 Tony Snow

Dark Passage: Bogart and Bacall...

2011-09-09T17:16:00.000-07:00

The only reason to watch this film is to see how truly ridiculous a film can be. Bogart's character accidentally KILLS 3 people during the LONG saga.. But, don't worry he shrugs it off pretty well as does Bacall's character, THE weird girlfriend. Bad luck can happen to anyone ... right? This film drove me crazy from the start, but I kept watching because I just couldn't believe that these 2 very fine actors would participate in this cinematic train wreck.. it's started to be funny by the end. Who wrote this?? Cinematography .. weird ..F. Acting F. Script.. what's worse than F? Skip this.. and see Key Largo instead.

Soldier Hollow Classic Sheepdog Championships...

2011-09-04T20:36:00.000-07:00

Photo credit Salt Lake Magazine and more info HERE...

Thanks to my friend Sarah, when I saw the ad in the paper about the Soldier Hollow Sheepdog Championships... I tore it out and saved it. We don't have a dog, but my kids are big dog lovers. I have to say that I thought attending this event was one of the more amazing things I've seen in my lifetime. I'm a total novice so a little patience... this is what I saw. People release these wild sheep about 400 yards up the mountain and the trainer commands his dog via whistle and vocal commands to drive the sheep down the mountain through a series of obstacle courses.. including shedding (which means splitting the group of 5 in to two groups of 2 and 3) and then finally penning them. It was amazing to see how smart these dogs were and the relationship between trainer and dog and what they were able to accomplish together. Truly inspiring!!

It was hot up there and I will come prepared next time (WE WILL BE THERE NEXT YEAR!) with.. camp chairs, ice, more water, hats and umbrellas for everyone. I might even pack a picnic although there is really delicious and tempting food up there.. not a lot of healthy choices though and if you're staying all day.. you could use a carrot or something.

This event is a testament to excellence... something I love to see. And, it has further added to my prejudice that Utah is the best place in the whole world largely because so often people who are excellent at what they do come here and share their talents with us. Thank you.. amazing people!

They also have a diving competition for just your average dog, which my little one thought was hilarious and everyone else enjoyed. This whole day was a surprise for little c who thought it was one of the best days of her life... Great fun!

Together Forever...

2011-09-01T16:17:00.000-07:00

My artwork was included in this lovely treasury: HERE...

Beth & Bertie: Custom Kokeshi Cake Toppers...

2011-09-01T08:35:00.000-07:00

LoVE BoXes SHop...

Bogart & Bacall: Key Largo...

2011-09-01T08:27:00.000-07:00

This is a GREAT film. Loved it! One of those movies that for the most part is still current and relavent. The dialogue is fairly gripping. HERE is the trailer. See it.

An August Wedding Out of Doors...

2011-08-27T15:16:00.000-07:00

LoVE BoXES SHoP...

Smile!

2011-08-22T17:57:00.000-07:00

Personalize your own photo slideshow
My sister Alicia makes these for our family and I LOVE them! This one that shows how fun my crazy nephews are is one of my very favorites. I adore every single one of these folksies. They make me happy everyday.

A Few Random Thoughts...

2011-08-22T08:32:00.000-07:00

I feel like my life is a fast moving hurricane sometimes. Where did the summer go? My photos of c are crazy because she was still little girl at the first of the summer, but it's like she grew up in the sunshine. She was more nervous to start school this year than last and couldn't get to sleep last night. It's back to school, dance, fencing and the social life of a teen. If she doesn't get up in time for me to visit with her in the mornings, I'll barely see her for nine months... so she has to get up! Our morning chats are one of my favorite things in life.
l is home with me, thank heavens. She has enthusiasm to spare and is finally learning to speak more clearly. Her new phrase, "CUTE! I LOVE it!" She enjoyed Jackie's vocal recital more than anyone, but couldn't resist joining in on one of the big finishes. Is Opera in her future?
My neighbor gave us a tip for scriptures that finally seems to have us in a routine. Everyone reads 2 verses. That is doable no matter how busy or how late. We can read for longer if we have more time and we've had some good discussions with it and it's working with the wide diversity of ages we're working with. .. for the most part. Family Home Evening and Scripture Study are habits that I feel are totally essential for my family right now and I just want to have zero guilt there.
I was grateful for our lesson on chastity in church yesterday. Our R.S. president gave a great lesson part of which was relaying an experience her son had when he was invited to prom by a girl who came to the door in a low cut backless dress and made the poor kid absolutely miserable for an entire evening. It is true that there are men out there that can have licentious thoughts about a woman in a burka, and I just don't think you can dress for them. But most men I think are fine as long as a girl doesn't have bits and pieces hanging out. I know some amazing women that wonder why they are always dating losers, but they dress in a way that a good man isn't even going to see them because he'll be looking the other way... and the guy that does look only wants what is being advertised.
The same is true for boys who go around with their pants hanging down. It makes them look like they are advertising for a gay lover... sorry to be so blunt. I'm just being honest. I hope someday soon, more elegant clothing will make a real comeback in the general population. Anyway, it was a fascinating lesson and I wish that we could have gone in to the Sunday School hour because so many had great observations and comments and I wanted to hear them all.
However, Sunday school was fun. Two elder missionaries came and they both seemed like they'd been in the field all of two weeks. I think they were a little nervous. Both of them are farm boys from small towns.. one from a dairy farm and the other raises turkeys. We were entertained by the stories of the Otis/Odena the $1,200 prize winning turkey and enjoyed so much the elder's best piece of advice for parents, "Money isn't everything, buy your kids a blizzard." I don't think I've ever bought my kids a blizzard... but maybe a YogoTogo is in order for the first day of school.. We'll see.

Waking Ned Devine...

2011-08-22T07:37:00.000-07:00

With a charge not to rent Nazi, Government Conspiracy, films about failing schools worse foreign policy.. .. There was only one place to go. Rest in Peace Ned Devine.... you make us smile in every line.

Light from Within...

2011-08-16T16:24:00.000-07:00

People are like stained-glass windows. They sparkle and shine when the sun is out, but when the darkness sets in, their true beauty is revealed only if there is a light from within.
~Elisabeth Kubler-Ross

I like this quote so much and was reminded of it when I took these photos of the beautiful stained-glass of the Kaysville Tabernacle...

Woman of the Year...

2011-08-16T16:15:00.000-07:00

From what I've read and from interviews I've seen of Katherine Hepburn, this character may be the closest one she played to herself and it's a great performance. But, the script needed a bit of tweaking. The ideas in the film are still very relevant.. and this is a film that could use a great re-make. Still, it's worth seeing the original.. it's is long and could easily be cut by at least half an hour and the ending leaves something to be desired.. that said.. It's Hepburn and Tracy and their wit and banter and chemistry is unrivaled still.

Wait Until Dark...

2011-08-15T12:27:00.000-07:00

This is one of Audrey's most amazing performances and this is also one of the scariest movies I've seen.. but it's really, really good. See it!

Bow Tie Pasta Chicken Salad: To Feed Almost the Whole World...

2011-08-06T16:47:00.000-07:00

Bow Tie Pasta Chicken Salad:

1 (12oz.) pkg. bow tie pasta
1 (12oz.) pkg. spiral pasta
2 (16 oz.) Kraft coleslaw dressing (Christine only uses one bottle and I like that very well)
1 C mayo
20 oz. pineapple tidbits, drained
2 small cans sliced water chestnuts
2 C celery, chopped
1 bunch green onions, chopped
1 pkg. craisins
1 C red grapes, halved
2 small can mandarin oranged drained
1 large (12oz.) can salled cashews
6 chicken breats, cooked and chopped

Directions:
1. Mix coleslaw dressing & mayo
2. Make this the night before, Add everything except oranges & cashes... which you add just before serving.
3. After salad stands overnight, toss and add more dressing if needed.

LDS Museum of History and Art: The LeConte Stewart Exhibit... Part 1

2011-08-05T08:39:00.000-07:00

If you grew up in Kaysville, then you have no choice, you must see this exhibit. Many of these paintings are pictures of my memories.. places that no longer exist today or no longer exist like they were. LeConte Stewart is our painter, biographer of the land, farms and barns that have passed away and been replaced . "Barnes are going" he said, "they tear them down or they fall down." We aren't an agrarian society anymore, but farms are our foundation, they are what we came from.

My ten year old home stands on the site of some one's old farm. It makes the land sacred to me. Someone carved an existence out of the wilderness and survived on this land. It gave them the very bread they ate. LeConte Stewart had the talent to paint anywhere. I am so grateful that he recorded this place that is so dear to my heart and did it with such care. His life was glorious and he new success in his own time, which is something for any artist. But, he was troubled by great tragedy in his life losing all his siblings and his mother within a few short years. I wish I knew how and why they all died, but I can't find it anywhere.

In any case, LeConte turned to nature and art for comfort.

Painting is more than expressing the appearance of things; it is expressing the spirit of things. When you know and love a tree, you can paint its spirit, the quality God gave it. ~LeConte Stewart

He was a fan of this little bit of Whitman...

AFOOT and light-hearted, I take to the open road,
Healthy, free, the world before me,
The long brown path before me, leading wherever I choose.

Henceforth I ask not good-fortune—I myself am good fortune;
Henceforth I whimper no more, postpone no more, need nothing,
Strong and content, I travel the open road.

I also loved this declaration of faith:

I would like to tell you what kind of Latter-day-Saint I am. I couldn't be anything else, and that's why this church- the things that it proposes have got me enraptured. The Lord started it, and all I can do is fall in line. I tell you, it's over powered me. When I go out now and paint a tree, I just feel His spirit. I tell you it's marvelous... ~LeConte Stewart

Go! See the exhibit and those pictures will sing you a song that you'll remember from when you were very young.

LDS Museum of History and Art: Part 2...

2011-08-05T08:11:00.000-07:00

The LDS Museum of History & Art is a summer tradition, but we should go even more often. It is really excellent. And, if you have questions, the missionaries there are really knowledgeable. In addition to the really great LeConte Stewart exhibit (REALLY excellent).. there is a quilt show and a very fun children's activity center. .. In fact, don't take your kids unless you've planned to stay because they can learn some Mexican dances wearing the big skirts.. collect eggs from chickens and play farm etc... They won't want to leave.

I'm sorry about the terrible photos. I have never been able to take a decent photo w/out natural light. But, anyway I wanted to show you a few of the beautiful quilts they have on display. This one above was my favorite. I love crazy quilts. It's fun to read about them too. They all have an amazing story.

I don't know how to make quilts, but I know enough to know that this one was hard..

They have a fun magnet board for children to design their own. L likes crazy quilts too.

Z'Tejas Achiote Marinated Chicken Salad: The Real Recipe...

2011-08-05T07:58:00.000-07:00

RECIPE...
Marinade

2 oz. Achiote
½ c. Orange juice
½ c. White vinegar
1 t. Black pepper, ground
1 t. All spice, ground
2 oz. Garlic clove
1 T. Paprika
1 T. Kosher Salt
½ T. Oregano, ground
4-6 Chicken breast with skin

Preparation:
1. Add all 9 ingredients to a blender and blend well.
2. Place all chicken in a large dish. Using gloves, make sure chicken gets thoroughly coated.
3. Marinade 4-6 chicken breast

Cooking chicken breast: Salt and pepper chicken breast and place melted butter down on Teflon skillet top. Place marinated chicken skin side down and place a weight on top. Sear for approx 4 minutes till crispy then turn over. Cook till done then turn on skin side down for approx one minute before slicing.

1 oz. Lettuce shredded 1/8"
1 oz. Red Cabbage shredded
¼ Avocado sliced
1 Roma tomato-small
¼ c. Sweet corn
2 T. Cotija cheese
¼ c. Black beans
2 T. Pumpkin seeds
3 oz. Ranch Vinaigrette
5 oz. Achiote chicken breast sliced

Instructions:
Mix all ingredients in large salad bowl. Pour ranch vinaigrette over salad and mix well so all ingredients are covered.
Dressing recipe:

2 c. Favorite ranch dressing
¼ c. Balsamic vinegar

Mix two ingredients until consistent throughout.

Or, you could go eat it at the restaurant like I did... It's really yummy.

Summer Love: Wedding Cake Toppers...

2011-08-02T20:53:00.000-07:00

LoVe BoxES SHoP...

Grudges & Dragons...

2011-07-29T21:53:00.000-07:00

A Poet in Zion has posted her Friday Post... you'll not want to miss her Dragon Poem...

OK.. discuss.

I love what I do...

2011-07-29T17:23:00.000-07:00

This is how I spent my day today... I hope I can find better outfits for these guys tomorrow. And, hopefully, some jewelry and flowers for these cute brides.

Dirty Rotten Scoundrels: At Hale Center Theater...

2011-07-29T05:13:00.000-07:00

Kyle Olsen & Angela Jeffries who brilliantly played Sydney Carton & Madam Defarge in Hale's production of Tale of Two Cities (which I hope they will bring back very soon!) were cast as Freddy Benson & Christine Colgate. I laughed so hard my stomach hurt and my face was sore.

The cast and crew at Hale are very hard working. They do 3 performances on Saturdays! The Ensemble must have had 10 costume changes. And, the dance numbers were spectacular. This wasn't a show for wimps. The set designers and the costumers at Hale knocked it out of the park! Lucky Angela got to wear about 6 different, lovely yellow frocks and you should have seen her matching orange luggage!

Now that you're all excited to see the show.. I hate to say that I went on the very last day... :( I won't do that to you next time. But, I hope to see Kyle and Angela in a new show very soon... They are such great talents.. I worry that Utah won't have them for long.

East meets West: Custom Painted Wedding Cake Toppers...

2011-07-26T21:25:00.000-07:00

Finished painting this beautiful couple just this evening. I love painting East Indian Brides and their beautiful gowns.
Find more Wedding Cake Toppers... at..
LoVE BoXes SHoP...

LoveBoxes.. goes Down Under!!!

2011-07-25T22:33:00.000-07:00

My Wedding Cake Toppers are being featured this week on a wonderful Australian On-line Magazine... called Little Wed Hen. I love the article so you must pop over and see why I'm up so late bragging about myself.

Bride & Prejudice...

2011-07-24T21:36:00.000-07:00

I was looking through some of the movies I've blogged about and didn't see this one, which is a travesty because it's just so much fun. If you didn't guess from the title, it's the Bollywood version of Pride and Prejudice. This movie is a little silly I admit... but I LOVE it! It's the color and the clothes and the amazing dance numbers. This is a musical! And, in the end they ride away on elephants.. beat that!

Oh and P.S. this film is pretty much G rated if I recall... which is really refreshing.

Without Love: Hepburn & Tracy...

2011-07-22T08:27:00.000-07:00

In my interest in classic films, I don't know how this one escaped me. If you've seen The Mirror Has Two Faces with Barbara Streisand, that film was a remake of Without Love. I like both films equally and I like them both quite a lot.

In this one, Tracy plays a brilliant scientist who has been burned in love. Hepburn plays a widow who has experienced love at it's best. They have different reasons for choosing to marry as only friends...

That's all I'm telling you.. It has it's Hollywood wierdnesses as far as the script goes. There are a few awkward moments and it goes a little long in spots.. but, it's a pretty fantastic little film all in all.

BTW... It's fun to see Lucy in this too. She's very pretty.

Catherine the great...

2011-07-22T08:07:00.000-07:00

Honestly, I haven't read much of Catherine the great... so I don't know how to judge this program. The point of the program seems to be to show how she slept with the right men at the right time. .. how very enlightened of her. The program almost totally ignored the reforms she made in Russia and concentrated on her "relationships" with different men.

I just don't know how accurate the history is, but I do know that the focus was not on her accomplishments/failings as ruler of Russia, but on her affairs instead.

I didn't feel like I learned much about her or about Russia.. so.. take it or leave it... ehhh..

Can anyone recommend a better book or film?

Voyage of the Dawn Treader...

2011-07-22T07:57:00.000-07:00

I think all of these films have been really well done. It's been a long time since I've read these stories, but they seem to me to follow the books fairly close. This one is no exception. I am just so thrilled they were made. My girls both loved it.

Owl Tutorial: These are Fun...

2011-07-20T16:22:00.000-07:00

If you could see these in person, you wouldn't need a tutorial, they are that simple.
We found this free needlepoint pattern and took it to a copy center to enlarge it. We enlarged them in 3 sizes. I wanted to sew two layers of fabric together to make it stronger & add another layer for the tummy for visual interest. But you can make these any way you want and that's what the kids have done, which has made it fun. BTW.. we didn't want the tail or feet, whichever that is in the picture. I have a few copies left of the pattern, if you are interested.. I would be happy to mail them to you. Just leave me a message.

One you cut out your pieces, you will have two layers for the front and two for the back as you can see here. The blue here is the tummy. Then you cut out nose and eyes. We found some buttons to play with from our craft stash, but you could use felt or fabric or even paint.
Then, you sew on the tummy, the wings, and the beak. The eyes are my favorite part. I start at one end of the eye and sew straight across to the other end. Then, I use the reverse setting and go all the way back and then to the middle where I reposition the needle and repeat until I've made a pizza wheel all the way around.

Then, we hand sewed button eyes, pinned our wings and then all four layers we pinned carefully together. We made sure that the pins went through all the layers and then sewed around. For our project, we used only the machine and we found that it was easier to sew from one ear to the other leaving the top open to stuff. This way we could put the beans in the bottom and they wouldn't be falling out as we sewed up the top.

We used poly pellets in the bottom, but you could use dry beans or rice if you wanted or you could use fiber fill for the whole project. I like the heft that the pellets give to a toy, but don't recommend them for small children who chew on everything... It's probably a safety hazard.

Then, you just sew up the top. It looks VERY homemade and has a childlike charm. It's a great project if you've got a stash of random scraps you'd like to use. We had a 9 year old boy that needed a little help with the machine, but everyone older was able to make their own. I hope to have a photo of all the owls together at some point. If you make them.. Let me know. I'd love to see how your owls turn out!

If you want one and don't want to make one, the 3 I made are all for sale in my Etsy Shop..

Love Boxes SHoP..

Cafe Terigo...

2011-07-20T16:16:00.001-07:00

While I'm talking about Park City Restaurants, I don't think I've ever mentioned this one before and it deserves a mention. This is not light fair... the food is extravagant. The photo above is their famous dessert... bread pudding with homemade cinnamon ice cream. Why isn't cinnamon ice cream a flavor available at the store? I don't know because it's so yummy. Their risotto is perfect, their fish is amazing. I've been there at least 10 times and never been disappointed. It's also nice and quiet and has a beautiful atmosphere with quotes from Victor Hugo and the like on the walls. It's a pretty place. Give it a try and tell me what you think.

424 Main Street
Park City, Utah 84060
(435) 645-9555Open Mon 11:30am-2:30pm; Tue-Sat 11:30am-2:30pm, 5:30pm-9pm

Hapa Grill...

2011-07-20T16:10:00.000-07:00

I have no experience with sushi, but after eating here, I want to eat more soon. It was melt in your mouth delicious. My salad was also really different and yummy. This is already new favorite place in Park City. And, I was there with such fantastic company :)

Owl Pillow... Was fun to make..

2011-07-15T05:00:00.000-07:00

This owl pillow/bean bag was very fun to make. "How to" post coming first of next week. :)

Afghan from Afghanistan...

2011-07-14T10:40:00.000-07:00

This is my cozy chair. This top white blanket is an Afghan that my cousin Jonna made for me while she was serving our country in Afghanistan. You wouldn't think something so comforting could be made in a war zone.. but there it is. I already felt like Jonna and all our servicemen and women had done something truly wonderful for me.. so I didn't need this blanket, but I sure LOVE IT. And, I will treasure it. Thank you Jonna. Thank you for the blanket and thank you for your service. I'm very touched and grateful for both gifts.

The Answer to all my troubles...

2011-07-13T15:07:00.000-07:00

No. But, what a fantastic idea! From ICouldMakeThat.org.

Wearing grief... a few thoughts...

2011-07-08T05:00:00.000-07:00

I have been noticing these vinyl signs on vehicles everywhere lately. In loving memory of... somebody that someone loves. I found this decal HERE...

It's an interesting phenomenon and I wonder about it because I think about death a lot. I don't think it's morbid. I just think of it as an experience we all face. I'm afraid of it a little bit. I don't want to die before I've done what I need to for my kids. And, I don't want to be left behind by those I deeply love. I don't want it to hurt, but I know that it probably will.

My husband's grandmother was a good friend to me. I went to visit her on her birthday once when she'd been a widow for about six years. She said, "Why am I still here?" I didn't know the answer to that, but I was grateful for her faith and for her courage. I knew she was ready when the time came and I was grateful for her help and wisdom while she was still living.

Some people have a very private grief and some people are more open. Once walking in the cemetery I saw a young woman weeping over the grave of a lost child. My initial reaction was to run over and hug her and have a good cry with her. Would that have been right? You don't know. I felt that I had invaded her private space... I found the depth of her love for a child she had known for such a short time to be sacred and exquisitely beautiful. But, I didn't want to walk there anymore and chance disturbing her again.

When people have these markers on their cars.. to me it says, "my heart is broken and I hurt." As humans the best we can do for each other is to "do unto others as we would have done to us." But, there is a greater comfort. Our Father in Heaven knows how to comfort each of us according to our need. He knows the number of hairs on our heads. He knows the intricacies of our hearts and he knows how they break and he knows how to mend them. The more we seek to become like Him, the greater ability we will have to do unto others as THEY would have done unto them. I know that our Savior has paid the price to heal every mind and body and heart and make it whole.

Relative Values...

2011-07-07T19:28:00.000-07:00

Not a very good title, BUT lots of fun. Appropriate for everyone and brilliantly acted by an incredible cast. Those of you who appreciated Cold Comfort Farm need to put this on your list immediately if you haven't seen it. Sophie Thompson playing the intoxicated maid is ... well, I just don't know how she did it. It's a perfect performance and made me smile for nearly two hours. I don't know how I missed this when it came out in 2000, but it's a new favorite.

Rescue Dawn...

2011-07-05T11:23:00.001-07:00

I wanted to spend part of Independence Day remembering the sacrifices of our military. C and I watched this gripping film which bears a striking resemblance to the real story and is brilliantly acted by all involved. (I would highly recommend this film to anyone over the age of 14. The worst of the violence has been suggested at rather than shown.)

When I was younger and fascinated by war, especially WW2... history and man's inhumanity to man was a bit removed as I studied and read. Now I have cousins and friends flying these planes and helicopters and so I pray for our military members every night. And, whenever I see the flag, or hear patriotic songs... these men and women are in my thoughts and prayers and heart.
I hope you had a beautiful Independence Day.

Marta Gomez: Cielito Lindo

2011-07-03T20:18:00.000-07:00

Tonight I was visiting with my brother who was trying to calm his sweet baby girl. He played her Cielito Lindo, a very old Spanish song often performed by Mexican Mariachi bands, but never sung more beautifully than by Marta Gomez HERE.. Her entire cd is lovely. This song will be part of the music and other fun ideas posted on Where Lilacs Bloom later this week for our Sweet Senorita Party... I can't wait, but had to give my good friends a preview since you need to rock your babies to sleep to this tonight.

Jennie D. can you teach me how to make a video.. I finally found a song. :)

Be-spangling the house...

2011-07-03T06:27:00.000-07:00

We had fun spangling yesterday. I had a small helper and so it took most of the day. It took awhile for me to remember where the red, white and blue things were all located. We made paper flowers and a few little treat sacks for neighbors and vets. I also stumbled upon the Taste and Tell blog, which had some fun ideas for 4th of July treats. Check her side bar for more ideas.

Climb of My Life...

2011-07-01T07:18:00.000-07:00

When I went to university, I had the fortunate experience of rooming with someone I came to very much admire for just a semester. She is an accomplished poet among many other talents and has started a blog of her own, A Poet In Zion, which I think you'll really enjoy. She posts her thoughts and poems on Fridays. Stop by and visit her blog or at least read this post about FAITH which I love.

Princess Hanna Peg Dolls 0-4...

2011-06-30T14:06:00.000-07:00

A favorite dress for every year. Custom Peg Dolls, Wedding Cake Toppers.. birthdays etc... are available at

LoVE BOxes SHOP...

Where Lilacs Bloom...

2011-06-28T20:45:00.000-07:00

It has been quite a week. Last week I decided to start a new design blog in the middle of a few other projects and it has been a lot of work to get it up and running... so please stop over and look at all the party planning ideas.. one of my favorites of the posts today: How to make your own silent movie for either your FLapper Themed Wedding OR your Dinner and a Murder Party :)

There will also be two real weddings featured with inspiration boards to create the same feel with handmade and vintage items. Stay tuned :)
Where Lilacs Bloom...

Elder Maxwell tells it like it "REALLY" is...

2011-06-28T20:37:00.000-07:00

I thought this talk of Elder Maxwell's was so powerful I sent it to my entire family tonight. I never do that. I would be happy to hear what you think. There article is HERE...

Sunscreen...

2011-06-28T09:41:00.000-07:00

Being fair, I love sunscreen and this little stick is my new favorite thing. I love the scent of Waterbabies. Plus it's pink and it makes sure your nose is not!

Tips for a Strawberry themed Wedding Celebration...

2011-06-27T10:35:00.000-07:00

on Where Lilacs Bloom today...

Two Layer Cake with a strawberry on top!

2011-06-27T08:42:00.001-07:00

I think I've made about a dozen two-layer cakes in my life. But, I've decided they are very Granny Chic and so I'm going to make the effort to stop making "snack cake" where you pour the entire batter into a 9X13. The thing is.. it's intimidating. Even with cooking spray or flour and butter I have a hard time getting the rounds out of the pans because I like the cake to be very moist. It's a crumby mess when I get them out.
So I have to apply not one crumb coat...

... but 2! If you haven't done this before. You use one of those thin frosting spreaders .. I like THIS one... (BTW a friend gave me the large Wilton spatula as a gift.. they are the best for lifting enchiladas out of the pan w/out ruining them.. free tip for the day).

After the second crumb coat.. even a moist, crumby cake starts to look prettier ( I apologize for the horrid light in these photos).

I need a better butter cream recipe. The one I use, I won't recommend because I made it up and it's kinda soggy so the cake doesn't fluff out pretty like a Martha Stewart cake. But, still I thought it was pretty cute and the best part.. It was DELICIOUS! Everyone said so. ;)

A cake is a celebration for which there need be no reason.

My secret recipe will appear in the comments.. just for those of you who are still reading.. shhh. :)

July 4th Inspiration Board...

2011-06-27T07:07:00.000-07:00

You've got to pop over and see this flag painting enlarged. It's simply awe inspiring!

HERE...

His Excellency George Washington by Joseph J. Ellis

2011-06-27T06:46:00.000-07:00

I wasn't a fan of this book. I don't like books that feel the need to nit pick at great men.

I intended to write a whole bit about the many reasons I dislike these types of histories, but I'm just not in the mood to be negative today, it's too pretty. So I'll just include one of the ideas that I really liked. It was that among his peers: Adams, Jefferson, Hamilton, Franklin, Madison and others.. among these great men, he was considered a leader.

I haven't read another book just about Washington. But, I would recommend instead..

Washington's Crossing by David Hackett Fischer

Angel in the Whirlwind by Benson Bobrick

Where Lilacs Bloom...

2011-06-24T11:00:00.000-07:00

I'm starting up a new wedding blog...

Come and see..

Where Lilacs Bloom...

In today's posts: The Tiffany Blue inspiration board has the most beautiful vintage wedding dress... stop by Etsy and take a look. It's a stunner.

Congratulations to Haukur & Anna Lilly Custom Peg Doll Cake Toppers

2011-06-20T16:00:00.001-07:00

Peg Doll Wedding Cake Toppers, Anniversary Cake Toppers etc...

LovE BOXeS SHoP...

Little c's Father's Day Talk...

2011-06-19T21:25:00.000-07:00

Happy Father's Day to all the good Dad's out there!
Sacrament Meeting Talk given by Little c
"In his talk, "Fatherhood, an Eternal Calling, Elder Perry said, "As we take a long, hard look at the world today, it is becoming increasingly evident that Satan is working overtime to enslave the souls of men. His main target is the fundamental unit of society—the family.
During the past few decades, Satan has waged a vigorous campaign to belittle and demean this basic and most important of all organizations. His success is becoming increasingly evident—the grim facts are seen, reported, and heard about daily and involve the collapse of many family units. With the decay of the family, we see the terrible effects on our society—increased crime, behavior disorders, poverty, drug abuse, and the list continues to grow and grow.
It appears to me that the cross hairs of Satan’s scope are centered on husbands and fathers. Today’s media, for example, have been relentless in their attacks—ridiculing and demeaning husbands and fathers in their God-given roles."
In the world we live in, Families desperately need the protection and leadership of a man who honors his priesthood in the home.
In my life, I have personally seen the heroic efforts of great men who honor their Priesthood. My uncle Josh is severely handicapped. There is so much that he is unable to do for himself. My grandfather loves him, respects him and cares for him with all his energy. There is nothing he won’t do to serve his "special boy". Because of his Christ-like service, Josh has the best life he can have. He has moments of great joy and he knows how much he is cherished by his Dad who has given his life to make him comfortable.
Satan does everything he can to make fatherhood out to be silly, to make those men who choose marriage and fatherhood to look like they have been trapped and are not very bright. He tries to tell men that Fathers are not needed and Fatherhood is not worth their time. But, the truth is the exact opposite. There is nothing more inspiring, more important or more heroic than a good father. Those that seek to follow the Savior, seek to have the inspiration of the holy spirit and seek to know and teach the gospel to their children fulfill the measure of their creation as sons of God. What could be greater or more noble than that?
My cousin has a beautiful little girl. When she was just one she had a strange anorexic condition and was literally starving. She gave up her bottle and would not take it. My cousin & his wife were very distressed praying and fasting for her constantly. After many trips to the Doctor and trying many different things the Doctor told my cousin and his wife that their little girl would soon have to be hospitalized and put on an IV to save her life. She was in real trouble. Then my cousin was inspired to gather his family together. He made a bottle for each member of the family and one for his little daughter. He told his family that he wanted them to all show the baby how to drink her bottle. When the baby saw her father and all her family drinking from a bottle, she decided that it would be OK for her and she began to regain her strength. I believe that Heavenly Father blessed a worthy priesthood holder with the direction to save his little girl.
In his talk, "Them That Honour Me, I Will Honour" Elder James E. Faust said, "Brethren, noble fatherhood gives us a glimpse of the divine attributes of our Father in Heaven. A father should be many things. He should magnify his priesthood and be an example of righteousness. In companionship with his wife, he should be the source of stability and strength for the whole family. He should be the protector and the provider and the champion of the members of his family. Much of his love for his children should flow from his example of love, concern, and fidelity for their mother. By his uncompromising example he should instill character into his children."
I am very grateful to have a wonderful father. He is a good provider. I live in a beautiful home and have good food to eat. He teaches me a lot of things and is always willing to take the time to answer my questions. Every evening during the school year, he helped me with my math homework and to study for my tests so that I could achieve my goals at school. He is kind to my mother and always anxious to help her. He is interested in what I am doing and encourages me in all the good things that I want to do. He helps me to work things out when I have problems. He is also lots of fun and I love him very much.
I have a testimony of the divine role of fathers. I know that men can aspire to nothing more heroic. I have a testimony of the gospel. I know that it is a plan given to us by our Father in Heaven. I love my Savior, Jesus Christ. In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

Fun Father's Day Gift Wrap Idea...

2011-06-18T13:39:00.000-07:00

Draw a little collar and tie. Cut them out. Paste.

Happy Father's Day to all the Dad's out there who are someone's hero everyday!

Custom Wedding Cake Topper... Congratulations Maureen & Laurence!

2011-06-17T21:16:00.000-07:00

Custom Wedding Cake Toppers Available @

LovE BoXEs SHOp...

Super Hero Wedding Post @ Green Wedding Shoes...

2011-06-16T09:55:00.000-07:00

Please visit Green Wedding Shoes blog to see all the fun details. Oh how I wish I could have made the cake toppers for this one! OH how I wish I had been invited!!!

Wedding Cake Toppers Peg Dolls...

2011-06-14T19:04:00.001-07:00

Congratulations to Rodrigo & Rachel...

More custom wedding cake toppers available at...

Love BoxES ShOP...

Peg Doll Wedding Cake Toppers...

2011-06-14T18:54:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Christopher & Nicole...

Custom Cake Toppers available at...

ThE LoVE BoXeS SHoP...

Finds...

2011-06-14T09:50:00.000-07:00

I was tempted, but couldn't buy one of these in California. Who can lug home a suitcase full of rocks? But, in person these are so beautiful. Some California artist has used copper wire and a bunch of sea polished rocks and chunks of recycled glass to create these "things" I don't really know what they are called, but you hang them outside and they accentuate the sound of the rain. Many of you are tired of the rain, but I love it. I just pretend that I live in Ireland. :) So, I kind of wanted one of these, but didn't have anywhere to hang it so I took a picture instead.. But lovely.. right?
Also, I have a new face cream.. huge jars cheap at Costco.. does a great job of keeping the exema off my face so far...(ooh how I hate the exema! ..it's a constant battle).
Then, there are the new short sleeve Thomas Pink shirts for summer... They are so beautiful. I would never buy a $200 shirt.. but, I love looking at these. They are sooo pretty!

Little Timmy...

2011-06-13T18:28:00.000-07:00

I have a lot of news good and bad. The bad news is my little nephew Timmy is scheduled for surgery tomorrow. He will have part of his colon removed. I wish that he didn't have to have it. He is so tiny and I'm asking that you remember him in your prayers.. he's been in our own every moment. He's been through a whole lot in his first little week of life and we already love him so much. Since we are major nervous wrecks anyway, I'm really proud of Alicia. She's been really tough. The good news is that we are very hopeful he will make a quick and full recovery.

The more good news is that brother Stephen was quoted in the New York Times today. (An article in Brigham Young University Law Review last year speculated that Justice Breyer, who attended Oxford, may turn to the O.E.D. “out of nostalgia for his alma mater.”) Stephen's paper for the BYU Law review... The Dictionary Is Not a Fortress: Definitional Fallacies and a Corpus Based Approach To Plain Meaning is simply brilliant. We're very proud of him.

Life is a roller coaster... sometimes I feel like you can't possibly hold on tight enough.

Bear Flag Fish Company...

2011-06-13T06:35:00.000-07:00

Whenever I travel, I try to do some research about the best places to eat. I love the little one-off places that are out of the regular tourist beat, but beloved in a neighborhood. This place is it! If you travel to Southern California... stop here. Fresh, fresh, fresh food. Get the chips and salsa because the salsa is perfect and everything else we tried was amazing. Prices are very reasonable. Atmosphere is non-existent (kind of a dive). Can be crowded.. and may be great for take out. Good for families.. healthy children's menu.. and you'll finish what they don't eat. Fish.. perfect.
Bear Flag Fish Co. site has a menu...

And, if you walk just up the street about a block.. there's some killer desserts including chocolate bundt cake at Alta Coffee Shop.

Come with me to Roger's Garden's...

2011-06-11T18:41:00.000-07:00

It feels like a secret garden.. California Style
Wouldn't you love to hang this just outside your window?

or have a Saint to pray over your flowers?

These little clumpy violets were so sweet.

Zinnias in a row with not one petal out of place.

Tell me you can't buy happiness? For forty dollars you could have this beautiful bougainvillea to blush at you every day... Sigh...

I love how they mix up the colors making them all more vibrant. Geraniums are huge in California.. Not these lovely geraniums, but some of the plants remind me of Dr. Seuss. I love them all though.. especially the crazy purple trees that line the streets in Long Beach.

Pink Dahlias.. bold and delicate at the same time.

I don't remember the name of this purple one.. but it's dream-like.

The Victory Garden is an idea perfect for our time too!

I don't know what type of succulents .. but they are lovely.

The past decade hybridizers have been bringing back scent in a big way. Some roses almost have a spicy scent. I wish this page was scratch-n-sniff.

The roses even grow over your head.

Of all the fun things I saw on my trip, this is the one I'm dreaming of... strawberry pots for the north fence line. Pretty and sweet.

Lobelia in four different shades.

Wouldn't it be fun to eat a 4th of July picnic on Starfish dishes?

Are these Orchid too amazing to be real? I'm not sure. There are silk flowers too, but if you don't touch them, you'll never be sure... so I don't. :)

The gardener here knows color and texture.

I so wanted to bring you this basket of blue... But, I hope you enjoyed looking at the flowers with me. They make my heart sing!

Beautiful Indian Bride & Groom Cake Toppers...

2011-06-02T19:11:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to...

Fahran & Sidra

find more custom wedding cake and birthday cake toppers at....

LoVe BoxeS SHoP...

Take Me Out to the Ballgame..

2011-05-31T19:55:00.001-07:00

Custom Boxes available...

LOve BoXeS SHoP...

The Profits of Doom by Kyle Smith

2011-05-31T19:11:00.000-07:00

Paul Erhlich, reminds me of the scripture verse...
Moses 7:33
33 And unto thy brethren have I said, and also given commandment, that they should love one another, and that they should choose me, their Father; but behold, they are without affection, and they hate their own blood;
Paul Erhlich is the person who made a fortune for himself by telling everyone else that they shouldn't have children. The planet couldn't handle it. The population movement is the father of the current environmental movement notably because Mr. Erhlich was wrong about everything. Not that being wrong has hurt his career any. Why? His verbiage is popular with the progressive elite of both major political parties.
In Sunday's New York Post, Kyle Smith makes a little fun at the doomsdayers who use scare tactics to gain fame, fortune from public monies and to further destroy freedom. The article is well worth a gander.

Big Top Circus Treasury...

2011-05-30T18:41:00.000-07:00

See the entire collection HERE...

& LOVe BoXeS SHoP... HERE...

The King's Speech...

2011-05-30T10:15:00.001-07:00

Interesting, inspiring and the best ever movie to watch with good friends.

Just a few interesting side bits. The Duke of Windsor would have made a terrible king. He was amoral and lazy. His instincts about just about everything turned out to be wrong in the end including the fact that Mrs. Simpson would entertain him for life. He began to think of her as a great bore after not too long.

Speaking of the Duke of Windsor... I am certain through him permanent friendly relations could have been achieved. If he had stayed, everything would have been different. His abdication was a severe loss for us. ~Adolf Hitler

That Albert ascended the throne and became a leader to his people during the dark days of WW2 is a great blessing to the world and makes this story all the more inspiring.

The Help by Kathryn Stockett...

2011-05-30T08:59:00.000-07:00

This book is a breeze to read in one way. You are so engrossed, you can't put it down. Stockett has a talent for writing dialogue that is entirely engrossing. You can hear the soft, lilting accents in your head as you read them on the page. And, you love these maids. Who doesn't love a person who makes the best out of an awful situation, who acts with courage and friendship when the world seeks to tear them down?

But, the character of Skeeter has so many problems. She's two dimensional. She misses Constantine, her former maid and starts this writing project seemingly w/out any clue about the dangers to those involved. She gets involved with a guy.. almost engaged to one who has no idea about her political views and constantly lies to him when she knows that he's been seriously heart-broken by another honesty challenged woman. She doesn't seem the least bothered by any of that.

There were editing problems.. like Skeeters dry, brittle and frizzy (pubic more than cranial is the term she used) hair that she grows long and straight in the end... The entire character of Celia is fleshed out just to be dropped in the end.

Then, there is just this feeling that the story doesn't come close to telling what it was really like. I think of Billy Holiday singing Strange Fruit.

What this novel does really well is show what entitlement does to character. Those who profit from what they have not earned and services that they have not paid for suffer in kindness and compassion, have an over-inflated sense of self and a general lack of good will. It reminded me of this verse from Moses...

Moses 4:25

25 By the sweat of thy face shalt thou eat bread, until thou shalt return unto the ground—for thou shalt surely die—for out of it wast thou taken: for dust thou wast, and unto dust shalt thou return.

To me, that's a commandment to contribute. Does that mean you can't hire a housekeeper, get your car detailed, your lawn mowed, your hair cut etc... ?? No. You just can't do those things while you keep the housekeepers, detailers and hair dressers out of the libraries and public schools while teaching your children that they are dirty and ignorant. You have to recognize honest labor, pay for it and honor it.

I once went to a restaurant with a good friend. Everything she ordered was sold out. The waiter was new and inexperienced, overly talky and less than polished. But, my friend refused to be unkind. After she ordered something for the 3rd time and found the item unavailable she said with a big smile, "Just surprise me!" She refused to be unkind. How do you treat the people who wait on your table or change your oil? My friend was once a waitress and so was I. It's good to know what it's like on that end. It changes your perspective forever.

The book shows that nothing is free for everything has an exacted cost, that even as we contribute as much as we can, we are still in debt and doing our best in helping each other is the only way to peace of mind and integrity.

Tesla: Master of Lightning...

2011-05-30T08:51:00.000-07:00

I have to admit, I fell asleep in the middle of this film (due to extreme exhaustion and not the film). But, what I saw was interesting and inspiring and tragic. C and c both LOVED it! It is fascinating to know a little about the personalities who are responsible for so many of the comforts and conveniences we enjoy today.

More than a biography, this program explains some of the science behind cell phone technology and other things. Very interesting.

Nanny McPhee Returns...

2011-05-30T08:39:00.000-07:00

I just adored this little film. It was very sweet and when you consider the pigs that "swim stylishly" and the baby elephant then I think this one trumps the first one. See it!

Lily of the Valley Postcard...

2011-05-28T13:56:00.000-07:00

Love Boxes Shop...