| eye-dyllic |

Picking Favorites and "Hello" Yellow

2012-02-09T23:24:00.000-07:00

I am perplexed that some people can commit to only one favorite in any given category. How do they do that? I mean, how do they narrow down a world of choices to just a single thing?

Off the top of my head, Apple Computers are the only thing I can point to as an exclusive favorite. As for music, color, style, design, food, places, poets, writers, movies, actors and so on, I have "groups" of favorites.

Take one look at my Boards on Pinterest and you'll discover my passion for variety. Just don't pin ME down. My take is that every theme is a header with multiple subheads.

Color is no different... As I find myself in a season of reinvention, I am at least agreeing with myself that there has been one golden thread connecting my love of color. Yellow! And, to stay true to my lack of commitment, I love all shades!

“Yellow is a color that says ‘Hello,’” says designer Robert Couturier. “I love and am inspired by yellow—it lives in the natural light of a room and appears in candlelight during a dinner party.”

For me, yellow is a happy, perk-me-up color. I wear it when I need a lift in spirits. I use it for dazzle and pop. It makes me smile.

I dream of rooms I want to decorate and yellow is usually a guest. Yellow with teal, pastels, grays, neutrals, primary colors, or partnered with bold strokes of black. It's always that burst of sunshine that winks at me.,

So at least for today, I'm leaning toward yellow as THE favorite. Ask me again tomorrow.

Attributions for Collage:

Yellow Door: Pinned off of Pinterest: broken link

Floral Arrangement: Found on Bing with no attribution

Yellow Chair: Found on Bing with no attribution

Bird Ensemble: Kuvaan liittyvä sivusto

The Art of Paul Thurlby

2012-01-26T15:36:00.001-07:00

Paul Thurlby is a freelance illustrator located in the UK. His work is retro-modern, full of whimsy, humor, playfulness, and tongue-in-cheek. He began as a regular contributor to The Guardian.

Since my 54th Birthday is this coming Sunday, I thought I would showcase 4 pieces from his numeric art collection, as an assemblage of the year I was born. The number 8 has always been my favorite number.

To discover more about Paul Thurlby, as well as his recent book and products, click HERE. His artwork makes me smile!

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Location:Idaho

Small Space Organizing by Kathryn Bechen

2012-01-25T03:04:00.000-07:00

"Small spaces give us the opportunity to live sincerely, forcing us to choose

which of our possessions

make our hearts sing."

-Kathryn Bechen

The rage of virtual pin boards has people enthusiastically organizing photos that reflect their every passion. One hot topic includes fabulous living spaces.

Have you ever considered why we are drawn to beautifully styled homes? Obviously, design elements have the power of attraction; moreover, these components create inviting and stress-free habitats. Yet, picture those same settings cluttered with mail, clothing, toys, school books, accessories... Our sense of being is not so harmonious, is it?

I believe that our attraction to artfully designed spaces and places lies largely in our response to order. And, Kathryn Bechen is truly an artist when it comes to organization.

As the book's description states, Kathryn has written "a room-by-room guide to maximizing your space" and she makes it very personal. This is not a one-space-fits-all book. It is about you, the reader, and what makes your own space and style tick.

The reader is encouraged to "perform a room-by-room audit" to determine what is and is not working. Then, unlike other organizational books, she provides a list of options for each situation, not just one solution. Her suggestions are resourceful, creative, and even romantic. She inspires "small space grace" and instructs on how to "dwell well." Any reluctance to opening tight quarters to guests will soon be quelled by stories of hospitality offered to Kathryn by hosts with limited space.

One of her chapters is entitled, Downsizing for Rightsized Living. This is especially apropos for me since my family of four recently downsized from a 3-bedroom, 2-bath home to a small apartment. We lack a carport or garage, so storage is our major challenge. And, as I am embracing the bliss of paring down, I am craving simplicity and order like I never have. Graciously, Kathryn is lending me a helping hand!

I strongly recommend this book to anyone. We can all benefit from more harmonious living.

From the Back Cover

With a few tricks up your sleeve, small can be the new big!

While we may admire the spacious rooms in large homes we see in magazines or on TV, let's face it: most of us don't live in rambling estates. Instead, we live in homes, apartments, or condos with small rooms and even smaller closets. But you can enjoy an organized, beauty-filled life no matter what the size of your space. In this practical book, you'll learn how to

perform a room-by-room audit of your space to see if it's functioning at its best
make the most of existing storage space and find clever ways to add more
find creative ways to arrange furnishings and accessories that maximize space and bring harmony and style to the home
live graciously in a small space with others (especially those who aren't organized!)

Whether you're an empty nester who's downsizing, a newlywed setting up your first nest, or someone who just needs some creative new ideas, you'll love these strategies, tips, and solutions to maximize space and enhance your quality of life.

"Packed with practical and stylish tips, ideas, and resources to help you take your home from drab to dazzling, no matter what size your space or budget." --Laura Leist, author, CPO and founder of Eliminate Chaos; former president of the National Association of Professional Organizers

"Kathryn provides oodles of useful and affordable home organizing and decorating tips, information, and resources. She also shows that a home doesn't have to be large in size to be graciously grand in spirit." --Kitty Bartholomew, former HGTV host; decorating correspondent for ABC-TV'sThe Home Show

"This book will inspire you to rethink every inch of your dwelling to create space and live peaceably with your belongings. It's one of my new favorites to recommend." --Marcia Ramsland, author of Simplify Your Life, Simplify Your Time, and Simplify Your Space; www.OrganizingPro.com

Kathryn Bechen is an award-winning journalist in the San Diego area. She specializes in lifestyle feature articles and has published several organizing and decorating ebooks. She blogs about timely lifestyle topics at www.KathrynBechenInk.com.

About the Author

Kathryn Bechen is an award-winning journalist in the San Diego area. She specializes in lifestyle feature articles and has published several organizing and decorating e-books. She blogs about timely lifestyle topics at www. KathrynBechenInk.com.

TO MAKE THIS BOOK YOUR OWN, CLICK HERE.

Let It Snow, Idaho!

2012-01-18T17:48:00.001-07:00

Idaho City awoke to a powdery wonderland! Weeks of uncharacteristically dry, cold temps relented and our belated White Christmas took the stage. We've had close to 10 inches so far and, "It doesn't show signs of stopping . . . I've brought some corn for popping…"

The forecast is showing rising temps and rain for the next few days. No one here wants our basin to become a slush bowl! Most would prefer just snow or just rain. The combination of the two, SNAIN, is an ugly mess!

We can only hope for temps to drop or maintain. If we lose, bring your favorite syrup for snow cones!

Location:Idaho

Very Pinteresting…

2012-01-16T20:28:00.001-07:00

Can a mostly sanguine personality be over-networked? I already have my Blog, Facebook, and Twitter groove on, and though I am signed up for other networks, they don't yield the same joie de vivre. Then, along came Pinterest!

Initially, I felt left out because I usually have my ear planted on the pressroom wall. I missed this one! Then, I balked at the idea of another time syphon.

"I need another network like… Uh, will someone send me an invitation, please?" Within 2 hours I was naming my boards and pinning like a mad woman.

My earlier eye-dyllic posts speak of new beginnings and reconstruction. Here was a place to dream, group goodies, organize inspiration, gawk, and repin!

Okay, so how does the above photo correspond with this post? Well, I used Pinterest to pin the Heart Page Marker. Then, I folded up a dozen or so using beautiful origami paper. I turned one upside down to show how I reinforced the backside with self-adhesive, color coordinated Mat Stack.

As a dovetail to a future post, one of the hearts is placed in a wonderful book that I will be reviewing shortly: Small Space Organizing by Kathryn Bechen. This is a timely read for me because our living space has been downsized and space is precious.

Heart Page Marker

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Location:Idaho

Leaping and Landing

2012-01-16T05:58:00.001-07:00

Leaps of faith don't come with instruction manuals. Even when God is fully behind it, there may be a little free-falling before we find sure footing.

I was assessing our first year in Idaho. A new beginning meant putting down roots, looking for employment, and operating on a barely-there budget. On the surface, it life could look discouraging...

We relinquished our Nissan
Our teen's rebellion escalated
We lost income
I forfeited my business's career sales due to hardship
Our computer crashed, further impeding my ability to do business
We no longer have mobile service or television

As I write this post, my 17-year old son is AWOL, having checked in 2 times in the last 19 days. And, he will soon be facing serious legal charges due to his poor choices.

Dwelling on facts could prompt pointless questioning. Did we miss God? Isn't fruit a natural byproduct of obedience? Have we lost our minds? (Don't answer that one.)

As our "leap of faith" is being tested, we have had continuous shelter and amenities. (It is 6.6 degrees outside and we are tucked safely inside!) Our fridge and pantry have not been large enough to accommodate the surplus of food. The '91 Topaz that became our primary vehicle — by default — has faithfully transported us up and down the mountain. Except for my husband's emergency appendectomy during the summer, we have enjoyed good health.

We have experienced a mind and heart shift. Less is more. Time is plentiful. Activities are more relational and fulfilling. God is able!

We may not be advancing at breakneck speed, but we are advancing. Our setbacks are staging a comeback!

NOTE: I will be blogging mostly from my iPhone until we are able to replace my computer. Also, I love the above tea photo and I have no clue as to how I acquired it. If you have the attribution, please let me know.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Location:Idaho

The "Pinch" That Stole Christmas (and the Friends Who Saved It)

2012-01-08T14:53:00.000-07:00

The Pinch

As you contemplate the word PINCH, perhaps imagining someone grabbing a handful of flesh, allow me to redirect. The blasted PINCH is another thing entirely...

In December 2011, we were days away from moving to Idaho. Everything, including Christmas, was boxed and labeled. Excitement superseded any sadness over forfeiting my own Christmas. After all, there was always next year, right?

Thanksgiving made its passage. I was eagerly planning the details of our first Idahoan Christmas. My list was short: 1) Get decorations from storage, 2) Make a grocery list for Christmas dinner, 3) Write Christmas cards.

Our decorations were easily accessible in a storage unit located where our mountain highway empties into Boise. Neither of our living situations up here have had garages, so paying for storage is a necessity.

The Revelation

Full-time employment had still not materialized and an unexpected move in November was not helpful. As Christmas approached, we realized that our storage payment had to be postponed until after Christmas!

I had waited 2 years and now Christmas was locked up! We were in a PINCH! All I had in my home was a tiny box of Hallmark ornaments — that were somehow packed with everyday items — and a tree skirt that was hanging in my closet after being dry cleaned.

The Rescue

Once my emotions subsided (and they did raise their ugly heads), I announced on Facebook that I was determined to overcome. It was not really a plea for help. Nevertheless, 2 friends came to my rescue.

Dee Dee brought over a faux tree and provided a bin containing a mishmash of lights and old ornaments. Tina lent me a box of unused decorations. Within hours I had pieced together a very charming Christmas tree!

So what that I had never had an artificial tree or that light strands didn't match or that glass ornaments had to be turned to hide wear or that my own ornaments barely covered the front of the tree! My husband said many times, from his perch on the couch, that he thought the tree was amazingly beautiful. I thought so, too. And, we were both grateful for the love of friends!

What I Know

Being flexible is freeing.
Perfection is constraining.
It came to pass, it didn't come to stay.

When life gives you LEMONS...

2012-01-07T02:20:00.000-07:00

Lemonade?

When life gives you LEMONS . . . make lemonade? Due to a surplus of lemons in 2011, I have developed a more aggressive approach.

Reasonable?

This is my return-to-sender response. We have all lifted our shields to ward off the slings and arrows of those who, for some reason, choose not to rally with who we are. Then there are those attacks that smell suspiciously of hell.

Yet, God does use assaults and disappointments as raw material for something spectacular. He turns the negative into positive: setbacks into comebacks! He loves conversion!

Our response?

Joseph's words to his brothers after they had thrown him into a pit and left him for dead, were "But as for you, you meant evil against me; but God meant it for good, in order to bring it about as it is this day, to save many people alive." (Genesis 50:20) Joseph obviously recognized God's hand in his circumstances.

It's safe to say that we can expect "God" results, but there are still things we should refuse to give place to. Then, maybe afterwards, we can make lemonade.

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

2011-12-25T00:41:00.000-07:00

We truly are DREAMING of a White Christmas! Ordinarily, our landscape would be frosted with icy precipitation. Instead, our moisture is on loan to a North Pacific storm. Temps are in the teens and the sky is sequined with the galaxies. Forecasts continue to tease, but snow eludes us!

It's our first Christmas in Idaho and my first time being separated from my California family. We have no relatives in Idaho, so our Christmas plans will include a morning fireside service at church and time spent in our cozy home. It already feels odd, but my husband and sons are gung-ho to begin something new.

Due to an unexpected relocation in November, my blogging fell on the wayside. I have missed it enormously and cannot wait to launch my new blogging year with a wonderful new book review!

I pray that you have a

glorious CHRISTmas

and a New Year

flowing with blessings!

Harvey Girls, Trains, and Culinary Exploits

2011-11-28T17:15:00.001-07:00

On The Atchison, Topeka And The Santa Fe

By Harry Warren and Johnny Mercer

Do yuh hear that whistle down the line?

I figure that it's engine number forty nine,

She's the only one that'll sound that way.

On the Atchison, Topeka and the Santa Fe.

See the ol' smoke risin' 'round the bend,

I reckon that she knows she's gonna meet a friend,

Folks around these parts get the time o' day

From the Atchison, Topeka and the Santa Fe.

Here she comes!

Ooh, ooh, ooh,

Hey, Jim, yuh better git the rig!

Ooh, ooh, ooh,

She's got a list o' passengers that's pretty big

And they'll all want lifts to Brown's Hotel,

'Cause lots o' them been travelin' for quite a spell,

All the way from Philadelphiay,

On the Atchison, Topeka and the Santa Fe.

This lively number may have been written for a Hollywood Musical, but it wasn't just blowing smoke! The movie was heralding a marriage between America's railroad and a burgeoning hospitality industry. Although, the movie had more to do with a love story surrounded by grand musical numbers and a fuzzy plot, it did salute the ambition of one impoverished Englishman who came to America to make good of himself.

I read Stephen Fried's book, Appetite for America: Fred Harvey and the Business of Civilizing the Wild West--One Meal at a Time. The title is a mouthful, and appropriately so since food played a major role in refining our country. I was introduced to Stephen and his book when I heard him interviewed by Lynne Rossetto Kasper, Host of APM's The Splendid Table. I had watched The Harvey Girls, the MGM motion picture starring Judy Garland, multiple times and never knew that it was based on factual events.

Fred Harvey | 1835-1901

The life of Fred Harvey, founder of The Fred Harvey Company, truly was a rags-to-riches story. It was during the summer of 1843 in Liverpool, England, that Fred Harvey saw his father, Charles Harvey, suffer the public humiliation of Bankruptcy Court as he was declared "insolvent." Consequently, the family endured a depleted life under hardscrabble conditions. In those days, legal notices were made public, this one appearing in the Times of London. Many found great pleasure in watching hardworking people sink into the abyss of poverty.

Fred Harvey arrived in America when the Wild West was anything but tame and wild frontiers were being rapidly swallowed up by settlers. The Union and Confederates were preparing for a showdown, modern inventions were redefining how people had lived for centuries, and the prosperity of a town could plummet with the simple rerouting of a train.

There is a small discrepancy as to when Fred left England for America. Fred told others that his departure from England was in 1850. An 1851 London census suggests that Fred was still living in England, so some speculate that he sailed for New York in 1853, via steerage. And, his journey was well-timed. New York was holding it's first world's fair and was attracting opportunity-seekers from all over the world.

Clam vendor. 116th Street and Second Avenue, New York,
July 16, 1936. Photograph by P. L. Sperr.

Smith & McNell's Hotel
http://restaurant-ingthroughhistory.com

Smith & McNell's was an affordable, 24-hour restaurant located at the The Washington Street Market, which was directly across from the docks for European steamships. It was well appreciated by customers — one of which was Thomas Edison. It also happened to be the only place to dine! It was here that Fred Harvey landed his first job: a dish washer, or in his words, a pot walloper.

“Delmonico’s, Fifth Avenue at N.E.

corner of 44th Street.” Photograph by

Wurts Brothers, Photographers, 1907.

The restaurant business was still a child. In 1830, Delmonico's — just blocks away — had evolved from a coffee shop into a full-service restaurant. This became a new adventure for Americans since they were not accustomed to ordering from a menu.

So it was that Fred Harvey had his initiation at Smith & McNell's, into what would be his life's calling. The owners "had strong ideas about fresh ingredients, handshake relationships, and the redemptive power of cash," Stephen wrote. It was here that Fred learned the restaurant business from the ground up.

Later, Fred began working for the railroads, gaining increased favor. He then returned to the restaurant business during the Civil War only to have his business partner, a Southern sympathizer, take off with their savings. This would not be the first of Fred's culinary ventures gone sour; however, he kept bouncing back. Since he travelled regularly on trains and found the food to be pitiful, he began looking for innovative ideas to solve the problem.

Harvey Girls at Work - hubpages.com

Eventually, Fred began opening Harvey Houses along the railroad, mostly accommodating the Southwestern and Western United States. He offered upscale meals, catering to wealthy and middle-class guests. The dining experience was meticulously timed and managed, and the food was served by Harvey Girls. Everything about his hospitality was top drawer. Exquisite linens, china, crystal, and cutlery were imported from the finest European and American manufacturers. He was even instrumental in the upgrading of dining cars on trains, introducing elegant cuisine that most passengers never expected to find in train travel.

The Ga-Ga Guest - www.valpo.edu

Saloons had dominated the Wild West, so it wasn't a surprise that saloon girls resented the advent of Harvey Girls. Fred Harvey carefully selected white women, 18 to 30 years of age, who were educated, well-mannered, comely, and who had agreed to live by rigid standards. Single men were elated that they now had marriageable options along the beaten paths of their sojourns.

This is how Wikipedia describes the uniform and restricted lifestyle of a Harvey Girl: "The women were subjected to a strict 10:00 p.m. curfew, administered by a senior Harvey Girl who assumed the role and responsibilities of house mother. The official starched black and white uniform (which was designed to diminish the female physique) consisted of a skirt that hung no more than eight inches off the floor, "Elsie" collars, opaque black stockings, and black shoes. The hair was restrained in a net and tied with a regulation white ribbon. Makeup of any sort was absolutely prohibited, as was chewing gum while on duty. Harvey Girls (as they soon came to be known) were required into a one-year employment contract, and forfeited half their base pay should they fail to complete the term of service. Marriage was the most common reason for a girl to terminate her employment."

Curio Room in Fred Harvey's Alvarado Hotel

At the height of The Fred Harvey Company's success, there were 84 Harvey Houses. He also operated bookstores, news stands, and created elegant postcards with the assistance of the Detroit Publishing Company. He was known for cultivating tourism; developing an appreciation for Native American culture, arts, and artifacts; and celebrating the majestic splendor of natural wonders such as the Grand Canyon. He is also credited for taming the Wild West and for launching America's first restaurant chain.

Fred Harvey Hotel in Gallup, New Mexico
Vintage Postcard

After Fred Harvey's death, his son, Ford, and then his grandson, Freddy continued the Harvey legacy and tradition. However, in the scope of Harvey family history, there was probably more tragedy than most of us will ever face.

Early on, Fred Harvey suffered from a near-death bout with Typhoid Fever which left permanent damage to his gastrointestinal system. His first wife died soon after giving birth to their second child. Fred then remarried and lost his 2 young sons to Scarlet Fever just prior to Abraham Lincoln's assassination.

Ford Harvey became ill in 1928 with what resembled an ordinary cold. He became a statistic in what was later identified as a deadly flu epidemic.

Then, in 1936, daredevil Freddy Harvey and his stylishly chic wife, Betty, were killed when the private plane he was piloting lost control and smashed into the side of a mountain. Stephen Fried remarked on how the local Johnstown Democrat displayed a total lack of tact: "'Plane Crash Nightmare,' the banner headline read. 'Kansas City Rail Leader and Wife Burned to Crisp.'"

I strongly recommend this book! It is a wonderful slice of American history as seen through the entrepreneurial exploits of Fred Harvey and his family. I was not only inspired by the tenacity of the Harvey's, but I learned a great deal about American history in the process.

Timing

2011-11-18T16:22:00.001-07:00

I was blissfully back to blogging. Summer had surrendered to Fall and we were satisfied and settled into our cabin. Townsfolk were warning us that snow would make an appearance sometime around Halloween. A full winter in Idaho City was sounding appealing.

Then our landlord made an unexpected and emotional appearance. He wanted us to move out. He gave us an assortment of reasons that changed daily. Regardless, we rejected the confusion and accepted the fact that God was up to something.

I confess that I dreaded packing again. We had moved 6 times in the last 5 years: 3 times in the previous 12 months! Temps were dropping. Income resources were shifting. We had no clue as to where we would live.

Fast forward to the happy ending... A 4-Plex around the corner had an opening. The owners understood the immediacy of our need and allowed us to move in directly. It snowed on the day we moved: another tribute to God's timing in providing shelter.

The cabin has been winterized and closed up. As for us, we will be saving $600 on propane alone and other energy costs will decrease significantly. Sometimes the reasons for things don't quite compute. I just know this: When God wants to move, get out of His way.

Welcome, Baby Cameryn!

2011-10-03T10:01:00.000-06:00

When Barry slipped in beside me at church yesterday, he leaned over with whispered enthusiasm and said, "Briana is in labor!" I didn't hear much of the sermon from that point forward. Peggy was neighboring me on the chair to my left. She said I was pretty giddy.

Living in Idaho now, I am about 1000 miles away from our precious daughter, Briana. Whereas I experienced her entire first pregnancy and witnessed the birth of our grandson, Caleb, I missed the journey with Cameryn — except for telephone calls.

Briana was a day past her due date when she began eating radishes per a friend's advice. We'll never know if we can blame the radishes, but she was launched into labor and arrived at the hospital dilated to 9.5!

Baby Cameryn was born after 10:30 AM on October 2nd, 2011. She and Mommy are doing beautifully! As for me, Nana KJ, I'm literally shouting from the mountaintops!

GREAT!

2011-10-02T09:23:00.000-06:00

These days, we frequently hear the word "Great" spoken with a dull, sarcastic tone. When inserted into comedy with just the right inflection and timing, it can actually generate laughter.

Happily, "great" can become something uncommonly special when we approach each day with with an expectation that makes room for greatness. Enthusiasm leaves little room for negativity and will spark smiles that engage others, rippling far beyond our reach.

NOTE: The acronym and picture are courtesy of Byrd Baggett. I colorized the photo using Toy Camera on the iPhone Camera+ app.

Let It Rain!

2011-09-27T12:50:00.000-06:00

"No spring nor summer beauty hath such grace

As I have seen in one autumnal face."

—John Donne

I am sipping sugar-creamed coffee. It must be an extra special morning because I usually take my coffee straight.

Geron Davis's "LET IT RAIN" album is resonating from our Bose. The gospel music on this album charges my batteries and I'm not ashamed to admit that I sometimes dance with abandonment! (I did this as a child, too.) For me, there is no greater liberty than dancing with all my heart!

I've said this before, but Graham Cooke wrote this to me in one of his books: "Karen, it's going to rain. Sell your umbrella." Those words have had such impact on me as I realize that we miss the blessing if we shield ourselves from the messenger.

I have even prayed in the rain before, seeing the rain escalate with the intensity of prayer and then stop completely when the petitions end. It felt like God was tangible in that rain!

Monday brought some challenging news. We had to choose between living in our emotions or in the power of God's presence. Let it rain, God!

Happy Fall Y'All!

2011-09-23T17:30:00.000-06:00

AT THE DOOR

At the door, we gladly greet

The Autumnal Equinox;

Not to say that Summer heat

Will surrender as Fall knocks.

—Karen June Miller

Many of you will relate to this poem as I heard that Arizona is in the triple digits today! Albeit, Fall has officially arrived. Here in Idaho City, leaves are beginning to litter the ground and mornings are chilly.

Vegetarian Times

I spotted the above photo in Vegetarian Times and immediately began to fire up the oven for roasting. A friend gave me some butternut squash that was grown in the garden of one of her Nampa neighbors. I sliced it into half moons, and tossed it with olive oil and Jamaican Jerk Rub (Pampered Chef). This became the main and only dish for a meatless meal.

NOTE: The "pumpkin pie" image is free wallpaper that I found while sorting through autumnal images. Use it for your own Fall fun!

A Retreat With a View

2011-09-18T15:02:00.000-06:00

Our Women's Retreat was last weekend in Garden Valley, Idaho. I forgot my Nikon camera, so my iPhone preserved the moment.

We were surrounded by mountain ridges, a river, a small manmade lake, and gorgeous valley terrain.

This was the view between the lodge and the river. The only thing that would have made things prettier is a bluer sky, which was compromised by an ongoing fire further up the mountain.

I took these 2 shots (above and below) before our Sunday morning session. I love the reflection of foliage on this little lake. It somewhat nudged me to be reflective as well.

Distraction

2011-09-18T13:58:00.000-06:00

Fall Musings | Pumpkin Sausage Soup

2011-09-07T00:31:00.000-06:00

Cartolina is one of my favorite iPhone apps. I love to send unique cards to one-of-a-kind people. Technology has definitely improved the ease and quality of downloads/uploads. Remember how images used to worsen as they were passed along? It was like photocopying copies!

One benefit of living in the mountains is a bigger separation of seasons. In SoCal, summer lingered late into fall. We lacked the marvelous transformation of foliage with its autumnal brushstrokes. We had winters without snow, a vibrant spring, and heat-packed summers.

Some people say that there are 2 seasons in Idaho: Winter and getting ready for winter. Even after a long winter, spring did not disappoint. Our summer has been hot and brief. And, almost the instance school started on August 29th, fall was knocking at the door.

The drawback for gardeners is that by September 16th, our nighttime temps will be dropping to 42˚. And, we've already awakened to a 33˚ morning.

I know many of you are still in the grips of summer, but here is a recipe to celebrate the advent of fall. In our household, we like all things pumpkin. This soup has become a favorite!

PUMPKIN SAUSAGE SOUP

Time: 30 minutes

Serves 6

Ingredients

1/2 lb breakfast sausage (I use turkey sausage)
1/2 c minced onion
1 clove garlic, minced
1 c mushrooms, finely chopped
1 tbs Italian seasoning
15 oz canned pumpkin
4 c chicken broth
1/2 c water AND 1/2 c half and half
OR 1 c milk

Directions

Brown sausage, drain, and then add the onion, garlic, mushrooms and Italian seasonings.
When the onions and mushrooms have begun to soften, stir in the pumpkin. Stir in the broth and mix well.
Simmer 20 minutes.
Stir in the half and half and water (OR the milk) and simmer on low another 10-15 min.
Taste and add salt and pepper as needed.

NOTE: Use either the half and half/water mixture OR just milk - not both.

Summerful

2011-08-23T18:14:00.001-06:00

Our mining town is sighing as summer is running its course. Seasonal flowers are hanging their heads; and dry winds navigate the brick and mortar landmarks, kicking up what's left of the gold rush.

I'm still working weekdays at the Museum. Soon, we will be paring down to 4-day weekends. We will operate into the Fall as long as weather permits.

School resumes on Monday. For the first time, both of my sons, Bryce (16) and Brock (11), are playing football — Brock for the first time. Bryce played football in SoCal and has now returned his energy to sports. Papa Bear, an avid football enthusiast, is barely able to stay in his skin.

Summer leisure has already been given over to football practice. I will take solace in the fact that the house will be calm as the boys crash after strenuous training. A welcome benefit!

I am looking for ways to reinvent myself. The move to Idaho has added much excitement, yet subtracted many of the tools and resources that made my SoCal life hum. I am missing too many opportunities.

So, like the early pioneers, we wheel forward: following worn paths and forging new ones. Much like the mysterious French eyeglasses (circa 1830-35) that were found in 1849 in a pine tree near Harris Creek, one never knows what one will discover.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Location:Idaho City, Idaho

Good Neighbors Candle Co. — 25% OFF!

2011-08-11T12:33:00.000-06:00

You were introduced to Candle Crafter, Becky Keeney, during my recent Giveaway. Becky pours more than soy and scents into her de-LIGHT-ful candles! She crafts them with a "keen" eye and loads of TLC!

Becky said, "I would love to meet everyone! If you stop by my Etsy Shop, Good Neighbors Candle Co., and use the code Karen25 at check-out, you will save 25% on your total order." Popular Flavors: Hot Chocolate, Blueberry Muffin, and Peach Smoothie!

I stopped by yesterday and picked up a couple of items for Fall!

NOTE: There is an "Apply shop coupon code" right under the "How you'll pay" section of the shopping cart.

CLICK HERE: GOOD NEIGHBORS CANDLE CO.

The Winner is...

2011-08-08T23:50:00.000-06:00

My "BACK-IN-THE-SADDLE-AGAIN" GIVEAWAY ended on Friday. Sorry, folks, for not posting the winner earlier.

One of the perks for me was reading your eye-dyllic summer pleasures! If you have not had an opportunity to read them, please mosey down to the Giveaway post below.

Tonight, I carefully folded up each wonderful comment and laid them out for my son, Bryce, to choose from. And the winner is...

Congratulations, Salwa! Salwa and I know each other from La Palma Christian Center in Southern California!

I strongly encourage you to visit Candles at Hospitality Lane. Becky K crafts every one of her soy candle creations with TLC! She actually donated the candle for the Giveaway. I know she would love to meet YOU!

Have a summerful tomorrow!

Life App-ens!

2011-08-05T03:19:00.000-06:00

When I upgraded to iPhone 4, the salesperson laughed at the amount of apps on my older iPhone. Realistically, it would take hundreds of iPhones to house the multitude of apps available. In my defense though, I use most of my apps consistently.

For example, we are celebrating Kokanee Days in Idaho City tomorrow. Kokanee are the land-locked form of sockeye salmon. I am told that the streams and rivers appear to be orange as the salmon swim and spawn upstream. So, I found a colored illustration of a Kokanee and used WordFoto to transform the image.

I have other photo tools, too: Comic Book, FatBooth, Diptic, SketchMee, LabelDispenser, Squeeze It... The results range from stunning to silly. Many of my blog and Facebook photos were taken and formatted on my iPhone.

I use apps to journal, deposit checks, and to hum tunes when I forget the name of a song. A rooster awakens me on my Alarm Clock. I'm plugged into social networking. I write blog posts, stories, take notes; and I record original poems in Rhyme Book. My reference library includes a Dictionary/Thesaurus, Rhyme Time, 5 versions of the Bible, Strong's Concordance, Kindle, and Zinio for digital magazines.

Stitcher and iTunes allow me to listen to live radio and podcasts. I am hooked up to Fandango, Netflix, RedBox, TCM, and IMDb. Then there is the cooking section with celebrity chefs, recipes, and shopping lists.

When I go down to Boise, I rarely have to ask for directions or information. Almost anything can be accomplished through my iPhone. Yet, as wonderful and innovative as technology can be, it can't zap my California daughter and grandson to my side — in real time!

Memo to Mosquitos

2011-07-30T14:31:00.000-06:00

MEMO TO MOSQUITOS

Listen up mosquitos! I declare WAR!
Your assaults leave me itching, scratching, and sore!

Regardless of mission, whether hungry or bored;

I refuse to be your adored smorgasbord.

You dine without invite with little decline!
And tip me with welts needing calamine.

Be advised. Be aware. Remember this day!

I'm closing down your all-day buffet!

Say good-bye to this flesh for which you are smitten
For "Vengeance is mine," says the Bitten!

— Karen June Miller, July 2011

NOTE: Don't forget to enter my GIVEAWAY!
Just one post down or click HERE.

"BACK-IN-THE-SADDLE-AGAIN" GIVEAWAY!

2011-07-22T11:53:00.000-06:00

NOTE: THIS GIVEAWAY HAS ENDED. I WILL POST THE WINNER THIS EVENING, AUGUST 6TH. THANKS FOR ENTERING!

We have all made moves in our lives. Unlike my parents who have lived at the same address since I was born in 1958, I have moved 15 times on my own! The most drastic move was to Idaho after living in California for 53 years.

The shift to Idaho not only presented a change in culture, but it gave a jolt to my cozy California blog routine. I have needed a new mindset. There is no lack of things to write about, but my approach to blogging needed to change.

To celebrate change, I am hosting a "BACK-IN-THE-SADDLE-AGAIN" GIVEAWAY! I don't have horses (Does joining the Idaho City Shootists count for something?), but it feels good to park my sassy chassis in a new ride!

The winner will receive this wondrously delectable Peach Smoothie Soy Candle from Good Neighbors Candle Co. in Lancaster, PA. Becky K, the loving crafter, creates these environment-friendly candles that lend so beautifully to any situation! I have enjoyed using them in my home!

GIVEAWAY RULES!

Leave a COMMENT. Tell me what your favorite SUMMER PLEASURE is. Be sure to leave your name in the post.
You will receive an EXTRA ENTRY for everyone whom you refer to this Giveaway! Make sure that they mention YOUR NAME in their post.
The DEADLINE to enter is: Friday, August 5th at 8 PM Mountain Time.
Please know that this is for ALL of my visitors, even if you don't usually leave comments.

Saddle by Cactus Saddlery

Today's Bouquets

2011-07-22T00:15:00.000-06:00

A longtime potato enthusiast (I'm sure it's in my Irish blood), I became a wee bit sentimental when we acquired our first Idaho license plate with "Famous Potatoes" printed on it! I didn't choose this state because of it's spuds, but it is a welcome bonus! Now, if the plate only had my name on it!

I worked 3 days at the Museum this week. I suppose I took my day-off too seriously because at around 7 PM I asked aloud, "Where did I put my day?" At least it felt good to be looking for something other than my reading glasses.

Fish Soap from Stephanie (SoqueCo) on Etsy

I was able to do a little shopping on Etsy for some olive oil based hand soaps! One of my purchases included "Gone Fishing ~ Marine Air Scented Olive Oil Soap with Crushed Sea Kelp." Apparently, this soap is not for the faint of heart, but I grew up in Long Beach, CA and I have been missing the seashore.
My Pampered Chef Fall/Winter Kit arrived today and I caught my first glimpse of the amazing NEW products! Limited Edition Taupe Stoneware, Microwave Chip Makers (without using oil), a Veggie Slicer with a 5-blade design for slicing carrots, celery, chives, etc. I can't wait to get my oven-mitts on this stuff!
My Museum paycheck came 6 whole days ahead of schedule! This means that Bear, Brock, and I will be going down to Boise tomorrow! Yahoo!

STAY TUNED! I will be announcing a

"BACK-IN-THE-SADDLE-AGAIN" GIVEAWAY tomorrow!