it's a lovely life: May 2011

Wednesday, May 25, 2011

Just listed....

Pink And Blue .... mother of pearl and lapis lazuli dangle necklace

Royal Sahara Jasper and Moonstone Dangle Earrings

Royal Sahara Jasper and Moonstone Necklace

My new FAVORITE combo....

Monday, May 23, 2011

I am having a "middle age moment". Do you spell but, like the thing you sit on b-u-t or is it b-u-t-t. I hate it when my mind blanks out on simple things.
Anyhow, I got my *SS kicked this morning by my "coach" Shaun T. I began month 2 of Insanity and I had forgotten how much harder the month 2 workouts were. I looked at the TV screen saying over and over again "nononononononono, I can't" but (one t) I did :)

Tonight is the last night of Alpha (in this course). It has been great and really fullfilling as usual. I am thinking I may sit out the next course in September. I bet by August I'll change my mind. Danny wants to do the next course. He went to a few this current course and really loved it.

Chris and Danny put a basketball hoop up on the garage last night. We purchased it second hand and Chris made the mount. What else is new....... nothing really. Home is stressful but we are getting by and always welcome your prayers. I have found strength and support in the Al-anon meeting I go to on Thursday afternoons. It's a really big meeting and most of the women there have children who are actively using or in recovery. I am learning more and more to care for myself and my marriage FIRST. It is not easy.

It's been raining for an eternity (drama). I made this lapis piece. The stones are amazing. I will need to take better pictures if the sun ever comes out.....
I also have more lapis pairs for matching earrings etc.

Lapis Lazuli Princess Necklace

I better hit the shower!

Thursday, May 19, 2011

Side Winder

I visit this great hair blog to get ideas for new hairstyles. This "messy side bun" is super easy and really pretty. Chris calls me a "side winder" or a "fiddler crab" (cuz they scurry sideways) when I wear my hair like this. I like it!

Chris left for the Kiaros prison ministry weekend. Please be in prayer for the ministry team and the inmates participating in the program.

We are all adjusting to life as a family of 4 again. It has been a stressful but good week so far with Danny boy home. He is working with Chris for the remaining school year. With only 20 days of school left, he's not going back until September (to a different school).

I am on my "recovery week" (yeah right) from Insanity. After 4 weeks there is a recovery week when you still workout every day, but it is a bit less intense on your body. I am still soaking wet when I finish! My should has been terrific! I am amazed. I am enjoying this round of Insanity much more than I ever have. I am looking forward to the challenge of month 2. As usual, the results are amazing!

One last thing, new lovelies....

Sweet Summer Cherry Creek Dangle Earrings

Pearl Bramble Ring

Petite Pearl Ring

Spring Pearl Flower Ring

Tuesday, May 17, 2011

Best I've Had!

I first tried this at Alpha when the theme was "breakfast for dinner". A good friend and fellow "oatie" made this wonderful recipe.

Cranberry-Maple Slow Cooker Oatmeal

Servings: 9
Preparation Time: 8 min
Cooking Time: 6 min
Level of Difficulty: Easy

Simply stir the ingredients together before bed time and wake up to a comforting bowl of creamy, filling oats.

Ingredients


	8 cup(s) water
	2 cup(s) Steel cut oats, or other brand
	2/3 cup(s) dried cranberries, chopped
	1/2 cup(s) sugar free maple syrup
	1 tsp ground cinnamon
	1/2 tsp table salt
	3 Tbsp slivered almonds, toasted

Instructions

Combine all ingredients, except almonds, in a 5- to 6-quart slow cooker. Cook on low power for 4 to 6 hours, depending on desired creaminess. Stir well to combine and then sprinkle with almonds. Yields about 3/4 cup oatmeal and 1 teaspoon almonds per serving.

Notes

Be sure to use steel-cut oats for this recipe as regular oatmeal will not hold up to this length of cooking. If you like your oatmeal very creamy, you can cook it up to 8 hours.

***spray your crock pot with butter spray or some-such or the oatmeal will stick!

I make this and store it in a container in the fridge. I spoon out a portion in a bowl and microwave for about 1 min 40 seconds. It tastes just made all week long!!!