My Place...

So...those of you that know me, know that I have a need to create. It is just something in me. I will go for a while without creating and then it hits. A craving, an itch...whatever you want to call it - I.must.create.
There's not a whole lot of extra space here in our house, so dear, sweet hubby told me to make the family room into my scrap space. Yup! He's awesome like that. He understands this obsession of mine. So here it is. My space. I love it. I still need to get some frames hung up and I would also like to get some words stenciled and painted around the room. Words that will inspire me, make me smile, bring me joy - yeah, those kind of words. Now, I leave you to look at the photos while I go create. Have a great week!


Here's the view from the living room looking into my scrap room/family room. Just painted the walls dark tan and chocolate. The chocolate wall is where I want to stencil some words in bold pink or white...love the MM organizer my hubby bought me!

This is one side of my work space. I have a magnetic knife strip from Ikea. It holds my little tins. I also added a bit of cork board to the wall to hold pictures and memorabilia.


This is my paper stash. I am still working on this area of organization. The valance was made using the bed skirt from the futon comforter set. I also took the fitted sheet and made it into a table cloth for the table. It was a twin set and the futon is a full.

I have more frames to hang in this area above the window.

Another shot of my work space. I keep all of my embellishments at arms reach. My Cuttlebug and larger items are stored in the cabinets underneath.

Wordless Wednesday: Mmmmm...

Thank you Trader Joes. I HEART you. *sigh*

Blog Challenge #23 - Happy 4th of July!

The kids with their annual 4th of July tees. =]

Cooking up a storm...

After a swim...not wanting my picture taken really. LOL

Trying to get it to work!

Taryn enjoying her bar-b-que!

The game is going strong!



This weeks blog challenge is brought to you by.... ME!
Independence Day is this Friday. For this weeks Blog Challenge, I would love to see how you spend the 4th of July. Is this a time for you and your family to get together and celebrate? Do you bar-b-que, watch fireworks at the same place every year, participate in a parade or block party? Is it a day that makes you feel more patriotic?
I realize that some of you may treat it like any other day...but write something! Most have it off from work, but if you don't, you could write about what you usually do for the Fourth.
This could even be a two part thing. Blog about past Independence Days and then after Friday, get one more in there to tell us what you actually did this year.
I hope to hear about traditions, favorite recipes, stories from the past. Maybe you could share pictures from past celebrations and/or add some more after Friday.
For those that do not live in the U.S., please tell me how you celebrate in your country for your Independence Day. I would LOVE to see pictures and read about your traditions.



Independence Day has always been a big deal in my house. Growing up, we would go to parades, bar-b-que with family and friends, go to the beach, and of course set off as many fireworks as possible. It all depended on where this Army brat lived at the time. I remember when my dad was stationed at Fort Bliss, Texas. We actually lived in El Paso. Somehow, we got caught up in some kind of "competition" with the neighbor when we were setting off some fireworks. My dad and the neighbor both ended up leaving after setting off the first round and coming back from 'who knows where?' with a box full of more fireworks. I am pretty sure they both went to the same Indian reservation to buy some not-so-legal ones! What a wonderful sight it was. My dad is such a strong, hard working man. I can't remember seeing him cry very often. Play Lee Greenwood's "Proud To Be An American" though, and he has to start "clearing his throat, coughing, etc." 'cause it will immediately bring up that cry to his throat!


We've always been taught to respect our flag, our country, and our leaders. Everyone of my siblings would agree with me on this.
It is no surprise that I would do the same for my family. I want it to be a big day, but as with other holidays, I want to make sure they know why we are celebrating.
Freedom is not free. It doesn't matter what country you live in, it doesn't matter what political party you are for. Freedom has a price and it did not come cheaply. I want my family to learn traditions and carry them on. I want them to teach their children as they celebrate and remember.


In years past we have gone to the Queen Mary to watch fireworks, but a few years ago, we started a tradition of going to Huntington Beach very early and staying late until the fireworks show off the pier. This year, we decided it might be too long for the little ones. That's fine. We now had a pool and a great backyard to entertain in. =]

The menu for the day was:
Hamburgers
Hot Dogs
Grilled Chicken
Carne Asada (grilled steak)
Quinoa
Peruvian Beans de la olla (like very light and melt in your mouth pinto beans)
Insalata Caprese (salad of tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil, evoo, balsamic vinegar)
All kinds of fruit
All sorts of chips
More of the Margurites (Marshmellow, peanut butter, ritz thingys)
Cheesecake....
*sigh*
We had family and friends over. We swam, played water polo, ate, hung out and then caught a fireworks show (from our driveway) that was going on at a park a few miles away.


The best thing about this day was that we were not in a rush to be anywhere or do anything. We just enjoyed each other and were thankful for our freedoms. God bless the U.S.A!

Blog Challenge #22 - Greatest Lesson Learned

This challenge is from my friend Lee.

In honour of Father's Day and since mine has been on my mind of late: tell me, what is the greatest lesson you ever learned from your father?

Just thinking about writing this challenge brought a cry to my throat. My dad is one of the most amazing people I know. He loves unconditionally. Next to my husband, he is the hardest working man I know. He served in the US Army for at least 20 years and did it with pride. I am his oldest. There are five of us. I always feel like I am more special and have that special place in his heart. Funny thing is, if you asked any of his children who the favorite is, they would each think it was themselves. That's how he is.

The greatest lesson I have learned from my dad is to persevere. No matter what challenges have come his way, he keeps going. I am sure that he would legally qualify for disability with all of his leg and back troubles, but does he quit? Never. It's almost frustrating to see him work so hard sometimes, but you can't do anything about it. It's in him. You should see his hands. Big, strong hands. Calloused, cracked...maybe even oil under his nails, yet with those same strong hands he will lovingly play with his grandchildren, help someone at the church where he faithfully serves. I love my father, I am a daddy's girl, and I believe that I am a better person because of him.

Blog Challenge #21 - Your Dash

This one is from MandaPanda:

Have you heard the anonymous quote: "Everyone’s tombstone will have two dates separated by a dash"? That little dash is your time on this planet measured against eternity. How do you plan to live out that dash? Your blogging challenge this week? Blog about your dash.If the above quote is truth, how do you plan to live out the dash in your life on this planet?

First, let me say that I really hope that my dash is not too little. LOL I'd like it to be a long, healthy dash. =]

Seriously though, I have an easy answer for this challenge. I plan to live out my dash as honestly as possible. I want to be true to my family, my friends, myself, and all those around me. If you know me personally, you know that I always say that it's better to "keep it real". Why lie? Why go around with this attitude that you know it all or that you've "arrived"? Everyone is entitled to their own opinion. You don't have to force yours down anybody's throat. Everyone makes mistakes. You don't have to act surprised or get offended if someone points yours out. We all have room to grow.

I want to live my dash in a way that will cause people to miss me and think about me in a positive way when I am gone. I want to live each day serving the Lord. That doesn't mean it needs to be out on the mission field or in a church building. It means that you show kindness and mercy to those around you. You take care of this planet. You take care of yourself.

Sometimes, my house is a mess. Sometimes, I get mad over nothing. Don't sweat it. You know you do to. It's okay. Let's make memories with our children. Let's show them how much we love them. Let's forgive wrongs - even if not asked. I know that I will try to. How about you?

Amazing video...amazing song!

This song is one of my all time favorites. It is called "Who Am I?" by Casting Crowns. I found this video on someone else's blog and knew I had to share it here. I love the way the interpret the song. Listen to the words:(Make sure you scroll down and hit stop or pause on my blog music playlist so that the video and blog music aren't layering. =] )

Who am I?
That the Lord of all the earth,
Would care to know my name,
Would care to feel my hurt.
Who am I?
That the bright and morning star,
Would choose to light the way,
For my ever wondering heart.
Not because of who I am.
But because of what you've done.
Not because of what I've done.
But because of who you are.
Chorus:
I am a flower quickly fading,
Here today and gone tomorrow.
A wave tossed in the ocean,
A vapor in the wind.
Still you hear me when I'm calling,
Lord you catch me when I'm falling,
And you told me who I am.
I am yours. I am yours.

Who am I?
That the eyes that see my sin
Would look on me with love
And watch me rise again
Who am I?
That the voice that calm the sea,
Would call out through the rain,
And calm the storm in me.

Not because of who I am.
But because what of youve done.
Not because of what I've done.
But because of who you are.
Chorus:
I am a flower quickly fading,
Here today and gone tomorrow.
A wave tossed in the ocean,
A vapor in the wind.
Still you hear me when I'm calling,
Lord you catch me when I'm falling,
And you told me who I am. I am yours.

Not because of who I am.
But because of what you've done.
Not because of what I've done.
But because of who you are.
Chorus:
I am a flower quickly fading,
Here today and gone tomorrow.
A wave tossed in the ocean,
A vapor in the wind.
Still you hear me when I'm calling,
Lord you catch me when I'm falling,
You told me who I am.
I am yours. I am yours.

Whom shall I fear? Whom shall I fear?
'Cuz I am yours. I am yours.

First...My new nephew!!! Then something I stole from Carrie...'cause she said I could!

Meet my newest NEPHEW. Josiah Steven Delgado. He was born on June 21st at 8:40 p.m. He weighed 9 lbs. 4 oz. and was 21 inches long. Isn't he just perfect?? Congratulations Esther, Miguel and big sister Abby!



Okay, it's one of those lazy day mornings and I am cruising through my favorite blogs this morning. I've seen this survey on more than a half dozen other blogs, but just thought, meh. Then Carrie went and added it and I had some down time...so here it is. Everything you never wanted to know about me! LOL
What is in the back of your car? Stroller and one of those things you throw over the cart or high chairs for the baby to sit in.
What color is your toothbrush? Blue and White
What were you doing at 8 am this morning? Reading my Bible
What Were you doing 45 minutes ago? Probably brushing my teeth
What is your favorite candy bar? Take 5, anything with almonds or caramel
What was the last thing you said aloud? "Good Morning Naomi"
What is the best ice cream flavor? Dreyer's Limited Edition Peppermint
What was the last thing you had to drink? Coffee...lovingly made in my Senseo by my 8 year old
What are you wearing right now? P.J.'s
What was the last thing you ate? That would've been last night...hmmm...oh, a great salad that I made for Marco and me. Spinach, mushrooms, bean sprouts, pumpkin seeds, romaine hearts, fresh mozarella cheese, heirloom baby tomatoes....mmmm...I'm sure there was more stuff in it.
Have you bought any new clothing items this week? No, not for myself. I did buy a bunch of stuff for Hannah because she was going to camp and needed some new duds. =]
What is your favorite flavor of popcorn? Buttery? I really like the popcorn they sell at Target in their food court thingy.
Ever go camping? Not much since I've been married, but I am trying to change that. LOL
Do you take vitamins daily? Well, I try to remember. It's a goal. Doesn't always happen.
Do you go to church every Sunday? Yes and every time the doors open...it's important for the pastor's wife to try to be there. Ha!
Do you have a tan? Yup!
Do you like Chinese food over Pizza? I LOVE Round Table pizza, so if it were that...maybe. But usually, no. I love Chinese!
Do you drink your soda with a straw? If the soda is in a cup of any kind, yes. From a can? Never. Are you someone's best friend? Marco is my best friend....I try to be a best friend to everyone.
What are you doing tomorrow? Hopefully painting or scrapbooking
Where is your dad? Too far away. =[ Washington state
What color is your watch? ummmm....I have been using my cell phone. Yeah, I'd like a nice watch. I like the ones that are kind of like a bracelet. I don't really like the leather strap type as much any more. Love Brighton watches.
Do you use Chapstick? I don't leave home without my Burt's Bees.
What is your favorite number? 17
Do you have a dog? Yes. Crazy little Oso.
Last person you talked to on the phone? My sister Esther - yesterday. She just had a little baby boy!!! =]
Any plans today? Well, Hannah is off to camp and Taryn will be leaving in a couple of hours for the beach...we'll see what I can manage with the two little ones.
How many states have you lived in? Alabama, Colorado, Texas, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Michigan (da U.P.), California, Washington, Indiana...Yup. I think that's it for the United States.
Ever go to college? 4 years
Do you dye your hair? Who, wha? Oh, me? Yes, maybe. LOL
Biggest annoyance in your life right now? Gas prices and all inflated prices basically!
Last song listened to? hmmm...let me check. I just have random songs from Yahoo messenger playing...Back To You by John Mayer is what's on right now.
Can you say the alphabet backwards? I'm sure I could if I really focused. I don't think I"ve ever had to though...
Favorite pair of shoes you wear all the time? My black sandals
Are you jealous of anyone? I don't think so...Is anyone jealous of you? Doubt it.
Do you love anyone? That would be a long list...
Do any of your friends have children? Yes. Most of my friends do.
What do you usually do during the day? Clean, do laundry, read, write, do lessons, play with my kids, cook, clean, do laundry ... Now are you jealous of me?
Do you hate anyone that you know right now? Do I have reason to? Yes, but do I? No. Never.
Do you use the word 'hello' daily? Of course!
What color is your car? Lovely silver mini-van
Do you like cats? They're okay. I have 2 people in my house that are allergic to cats, so we just don't even think about cats.
Have you ever been to Six Flags? Six Flags Magic Mountain here in Cali
How did you get your worst scar? I have a few pretty bad ones. My biggest scar is from trying to deliver 10 lbs. Plus babies. Yup twice. The first one and the last one!
Well, there you go. A huge list of useless info about me. I know, I know. I should not be putting all that personal stuff out there for the whole world to see. Well, if you know me IRL, you know it's no secret! What you see is what you get.... ;0]