tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2093732919153490972024-03-05T23:59:23.610-06:00~Back Porch Pickins~ Thoughts & Tid-bits From My Heart...Thoughts & Tid-bits From My Heart...~Tonyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00355887095326169962noreply@blogger.comBlogger584125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-209373291915349097.post-87323757349943885312016-02-16T23:52:00.000-06:002016-02-16T23:58:00.555-06:00Where has the time gone?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLzqi3Om_EW5vQJbqHR3sdwts2ZG7ICD68vxBQyC1rOr_jbOhL3x-9hNA0hknpSQH1RQ48mHh_TqyPE6bzQ99qoBionhwkQjkNLChHYrwZ-gVJ1KM2Kho9XCcfvMzYtvGRfTw2KMVBA8wP/s1600/time.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLzqi3Om_EW5vQJbqHR3sdwts2ZG7ICD68vxBQyC1rOr_jbOhL3x-9hNA0hknpSQH1RQ48mHh_TqyPE6bzQ99qoBionhwkQjkNLChHYrwZ-gVJ1KM2Kho9XCcfvMzYtvGRfTw2KMVBA8wP/s320/time.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">It's been almost 2 years to the day that I last posted. I just don't know where the time has gone and why I haven't kept up on my blog or why I haven't started creating again. Does anyone read blogs anymore? Seems like so many artists have moved to other media outlets. For me, I still like the blogs and I haven't jumped on the wagon to Instagram or Snapchat. I know there are others that I haven't mentioned, but I'm sure you get the point. I just feel there aren't enough hours in a day to keep up with what I already have going on.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">So much has changed, yet I feel like I am practically the same person, however, I haven't created. I now work full-time and need to make time to create. I purchased a new home a<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> little over</span> a year ago and I am minus one child that has moved out and purchased his own home at the age of 20. I am so proud of Jordan! He moved out right after he graduated <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">high school </span>and is almost finished with college (he will graduate in May <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">with an</span> auto-body degree) and I couldn't be more proud of him! My middle child, Courtney, is moving out in August. She is attending MSU and going to become a social worker. I'<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">m so proud of her as well!</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Maybe if I delve back into my blog, it will spark some creativity! I miss creating and I miss the connections that I had made with some of the fellow artists. Seems like so many artists that used to create, no longer create. What a shame! There were so many talented artists out there during the time I was creating. I miss the good old days with selling on eBay. It was like an addiction, so to speak. Now, my addiction is poking around on Facebook to unwind and looking at everyone elses life and how they want you to see them, through their eyes.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">I need to get back to my creating and do what I enjoy, rather than scrolling through other<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> peop<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">les</span></span> lives on <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">social</span> med<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">ia</span></span>. I would love to hear from you, if you still follow me. So sorry I have been out of touch for so long. Starting over....or shall we say, starting a new beginning is a somewhat daunting task and quite an intertwining endeavor! Until next time (which won't be 2 years), do something that makes you HAPPY!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Cheers, T~ </span>~Tonyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00355887095326169962noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-209373291915349097.post-75412524453162733962014-02-09T19:54:00.002-06:002014-02-09T19:54:38.899-06:00Marked Down....S-A-L-E<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUQdJVyJzCl2jCX2gKaNvBf_DylT5lbzj8XTD2mviUDdwsMrREt2ueSwiehu6tzjCMoymlviEp138o0zJowUZ2u9IgfVzuvQFkollE8gnXYLGaAhWUbda9nIHI66mMhx5PUkKSSEajLLmb/s1600/americana2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUQdJVyJzCl2jCX2gKaNvBf_DylT5lbzj8XTD2mviUDdwsMrREt2ueSwiehu6tzjCMoymlviEp138o0zJowUZ2u9IgfVzuvQFkollE8gnXYLGaAhWUbda9nIHI66mMhx5PUkKSSEajLLmb/s1600/americana2.jpg" height="400" width="301" /></a></div>
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I wanted to let you all know that I have marked down my<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/173606368/whimsical-folk-art-primitive-americana?ref=shop_home_feat_2" target="_blank"> <i><span style="font-size: small;"><b>~Americana Snow Girl~</b></span></i></a> in my Etsy Shoppe. I haven't had time to create anything new, but thought I could mark Americana down, as I have an appeal to pay for. Yes, I am finally divorced, however, HE appealed it and now I get to go to court again, tomorrow! Wonderful! I just want to move forward with my life and I don't have money for this to continue on and on and on....I have so many attorney fees to pay for as-is. I wonder when this nightmare will end! Wish me LUCK!~Tonyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00355887095326169962noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-209373291915349097.post-29691538525179571962013-12-31T14:11:00.000-06:002013-12-31T14:18:33.342-06:00Wynter's Queen Epattern...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.patternmart.com/pattern/17891/Tonya+Americana+Winter+Snowman+Girl+Queen+Primitive+Folk+Art+PMNL/" target="_blank"><img alt="http://www.patternmart.com/pattern/17891/Tonya+Americana+Winter+Snowman+Girl+Queen+Primitive+Folk+Art+PMNL/" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg3HNhJE9MS9hU3djN8CB3mGe8O8q2OPse0quG8pfgmyjrLNQnWoC3yC7oTC6IR68me0vEyxHyoMgBahWI12GABb5WmwdX_0YgyTzQQbaWlpIxyn8G_5vPp_kMM4uCHgYeyFd8-44bggmY/s400/Wynter's+Queen.gif" width="308" /></a></div>
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This epattern can be purchased for a *SPECIAL* price through <i><span style="color: red; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.patternmart.com/" target="_blank"><b>Patternmart</b></a></span></i>. If you have not already signed up for Patternmarts newsletter, I urge you to do so. They send out a weekly newsletter and it has discounted patterns on each newsletter. Patternmart also <i><span style="color: red; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.patternmart.com/newsletter_archives.php" target="_blank"><b>archives</b></a></span></i> the weekly newsletters<b>...</b>so go and take a peek! I do have some other epatterns on there, from the past, at a discounted rate.<br />
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Here is a <span style="color: red; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.patternmart.com/pattern/17891/Tonya+Americana+Winter+Snowman+Girl+Queen+Primitive+Folk+Art+PMNL/" target="_blank"><i><b>link</b></i></a></span> to purchase Wynter's Queen at $4.50. You do have to sign-up in order to purchase on the Patternmart website, but it is really quite simple. Snow is gently falling here, this is the second day in a row that is has been snowing. It is quite pretty and now it feels and looks like winter. Enjoy the day ;) Cheers, ~Tonya ~Tonyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00355887095326169962noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-209373291915349097.post-67932966832470200132013-12-22T20:14:00.001-06:002013-12-22T20:14:11.625-06:00~Americana Snow Girl Dollie~<div style="text-align: center;">
Merry Winter to each of you! The time sure gets away from us. Each year I say...I am going to shop in advance and get all of my things done early. Well, I did start shopping earlier than normal, but I still let some things that I needed linger until Friday. An yes, I did go to Wal-Mart yesterday for "normal" things that I needed around the house...boy-oh-boy! I had to actually wait for a cart! Yup! every single cart was being used or outside. Mind you, I live in a large city and it's normally always busy, but the parking lot was almost completely full as well. Let's just say....I could not wait to get out of there! I was so glad that I didn't have to try to "think" about what present to buy for what person on my list!</div>
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Even though I work full-time and have plenty of things to do...ALWAYS...I do make time to create. I do this partially for me, because it does take me to a happy place. My heart was aching for it and to create, well, it makes me HAPPY! Americana took me over two weeks to complete, but she is just the sweetest in person.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIgohXO5mu9Hy5SQl-GpCUMstxcw8iKtegwXgAkqIRqX71DjAc_hFm0gMzp87ACv4f_fbgaa3lN8GOH13oD33OfAPnxK-5NAQHc7DbyIaOLFWoSGwA9hLjMJWwiNM3ekMuKJ6wjELwxM1X/s1600/americana1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIgohXO5mu9Hy5SQl-GpCUMstxcw8iKtegwXgAkqIRqX71DjAc_hFm0gMzp87ACv4f_fbgaa3lN8GOH13oD33OfAPnxK-5NAQHc7DbyIaOLFWoSGwA9hLjMJWwiNM3ekMuKJ6wjELwxM1X/s400/americana1.jpg" width="288" /></a></div>
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Americana is listed in my <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/173606368/whimsical-folk-art-primitive-americana?ref=shop_home_feat" target="_blank"><b>ETSY SHOPPE.</b></a> She was fun to make....but I tell ya, I am a bit "rusty" at some of the techniques that I thought would be forever embedded in my head because I used to create every-single-day. I used to create so much, that I did honestly take it for granted. Not creating for over two years makes me appreciate being able to create now, even more. Some will not understand that statement and others will understand it completely...</div>
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Americana has such an innocence about her. Christmas is just around the corner and I am ready, however, I have not made any cookies with my girls yet (and don't know if we will). As some of you know (and some may not know), I am still in the middle of a divorce and my girls went to their dad's house this weekend. This would have normally been our annual "Cookie Baking Weekend" at grandma's house! So much for that. Makes me sad. No, I have not baked any cookies without them. My heart just isn't into that. Enjoy your Christmas and make some Happy Memories with your families...I know I will. Blessings to each of you. ~Tonya</div>
~Tonyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00355887095326169962noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-209373291915349097.post-24834926702484552832013-12-09T00:48:00.001-06:002013-12-09T00:50:40.053-06:00BELIEVE...<div style="text-align: center;">
With the Christmas Season almost upon us I thought I would make an ANGEL. When I ran out of time a couple of years ago....I had a couple of bunnies that were waiting to be created and well, this is the last bunny that was in "parts" and she is finally finished! Meet ~Bella Believes~ my sweet angel bunny.</div>
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I sure enjoy creating again, however, I get lost in creating again and don't seem to pay attention to the time. With working full-time and having to get up early in the morning, I must start paying attention to that...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSAbPMQcPJHqhSK5IxYWy2e7qHk-gLTShf_bbaOzjvroo6EDPMCW7OlmQDyt3r-Yzm-WwV6TSFxaj3EH5-0EkXeAo4i0dVbMrbW9m1VYk5UfBVx-2X_NBTZYw0UN7hBaYOma6ohrhYRaJI/s1600/Bella+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSAbPMQcPJHqhSK5IxYWy2e7qHk-gLTShf_bbaOzjvroo6EDPMCW7OlmQDyt3r-Yzm-WwV6TSFxaj3EH5-0EkXeAo4i0dVbMrbW9m1VYk5UfBVx-2X_NBTZYw0UN7hBaYOma6ohrhYRaJI/s400/Bella+1.jpg" width="293" /></a></div>
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Bella is listed in my <i><b><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/172322528/whimsical-folk-art-primitive-believe?ref=shop_home_feat" target="_blank">ETSY SHOPPE</a>.</b></i>..</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh09Bq7DB8NhRjVJbNGdccqHyTFM6VqhMBEPd3vix3_KBqE0kfUR8OqIgsIyDXEwePqSmf1IMpFsHQPGVTK-LvHrJOHkyS_giE9BSH0WCbnNPreVjeWqmlRaqjcKrTBUa8BRfgneuwauMsJ/s1600/Bella2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="296" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh09Bq7DB8NhRjVJbNGdccqHyTFM6VqhMBEPd3vix3_KBqE0kfUR8OqIgsIyDXEwePqSmf1IMpFsHQPGVTK-LvHrJOHkyS_giE9BSH0WCbnNPreVjeWqmlRaqjcKrTBUa8BRfgneuwauMsJ/s400/Bella2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Enjoy your week and I hope you are also enjoying the Holiday Season as there are not many days left until Christmas. Many Blessings to each of you! Cheers, ~Tonya</div>
~Tonyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00355887095326169962noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-209373291915349097.post-6464217980198301052013-11-27T00:06:00.000-06:002013-11-27T17:58:36.738-06:00It's about TIME...Don't ya think?<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;">It has been way too long since I last created and I
thought it was about dang time I made time to create again! I certainly
will not be able to create as often as I used too, but I will take what I
can get. When "LIFE" happened and I had to pick up the pieces and begin
again, well, my creating took a back seat. I am now in the "drivers"
seat and at full throttle! I intend to continue to become more at peace
with myself and starting over and I will continue to create again.</span> That speaks volume in my eyes...</div>
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This is ~Miss Wynta Wishes~ my sweet bunny doll that waited over two years to be put together. I can relate to that and I wanted to create her before the end of the year. I have appropriately named her Wynta WISHES because although we all DREAM, we must remember to WISH. We must close our eyes tightly and WISH...</div>
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Miss Wynta Wishes is in my <i><b><span style="color: #6fa8dc;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/backporchpickins?ref=search_shop_redirect" target="_blank">Etsy Shoppe</a></span></b></i> is. I hope you can find time to take a peek or maybe you are just stopping by to say hello. Either way I have missed the wonderful friendships along the way as much as I have missed creating. Wishing each of you a Blessed Thanksgiving. Make some new memories. Cheers, ~Tonya</div>
~Tonyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00355887095326169962noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-209373291915349097.post-18965202280514929152013-04-06T16:12:00.000-05:002013-04-06T16:15:13.492-05:00I know who I am...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://razzlesdazzles.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="285" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYLfXyB82kkm32Ihw-7dMzBeb2_oOSH-CskQNXXqEY4QbDQQGffNsKgrw6RCQjJXWJyUePk59vwnAEepgMxLFdVAen_cjjajIaAZ8lZHi5X8DgfbZKI55GlSx0p9WIvLRLTKZeZ_OdZJEN/s400/Who+I+AM.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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I thought I would write a post and update those of you that still keep in touch and wonder how I am. I have been through quite a bit since the last post and I am still treading water and not very certain of the future and what the future may hold for me. I am still smack dab in the middle of the "divorce" or lack there of....still waiting and wondering.<br />
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I know I am where I am at because at this time in my life this is right where I am supposed to be. At times I wonder how I got here....and yet, but don't we all wonder that at times? Time seems to have a way of standing still and yet somehow it changes or doesn't it? They say, "The more things change, the more they stay the same." I feel I have changed for the better and I have grown as an individual, as a mother, as a daughter, and as a friend.<br />
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<span style="color: #ea9999;"><span style="background-color: black;"><b>My Views in Life are Simple...</b></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #ea9999;"><span style="background-color: black;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #ea9999;"><span style="background-color: black;"><i><b>Give</b> - but don't expect in return.</i></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #ea9999;"><span style="background-color: black;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #ea9999;"><span style="background-color: black;"><i><b>Love</b> -but don't hold too tight.</i></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #ea9999;"><span style="background-color: black;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #ea9999;"><span style="background-color: black;"><i><b>Teach</b> - because children learn what they live.</i></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #ea9999;"><span style="background-color: black;"><i><b>Cherish</b> - appreciate all the little things in life.</i></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #ea9999;"><span style="background-color: black;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #ea9999;"><span style="background-color: black;"><i><b>Dream</b> - but don't live with your head in the clouds.</i></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #ea9999;"><span style="background-color: black;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #ea9999;"><span style="background-color: black;"><i><b>Hope</b> - for we all must believe in something.</i></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #ea9999;"><span style="background-color: black;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #ea9999;"><span style="background-color: black;"><i><b>Desire</b> - but appreciate what you have.</i></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #ea9999;"><span style="background-color: black;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #ea9999;"><span style="background-color: black;"><i><b>Faith</b> - is believing is what is true.</i></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #ea9999;"><span style="background-color: black;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #ea9999;"><span style="background-color: black;"><i><b>Kindness </b>- we all must be sympathetic and understanding.</i></span></span><br />
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I know who I am and everything I stand for. I have self-worth. I have made sacrifices. I have given and still continue too. I have lost. I have fought. I have stumbled. I am strong. I am determined. I love. I cherish. I dream. I hope. I have faith. I desire. I love and I won't give up! Do you know who you are? Do you know how far you have come? Do you know where you are going? I am a strong believer in, "If you see it, you can achieve it!".....if you believe.<br />
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Each of us are fighting our very own battle. Be kind. Be understanding. Be supportive. Listen. Be brave and be who you are meant to be and everything else will fall in to place! I am, who I am because of what I have been through. I will continue to give, to love, to teach, to cherish, to dream, to hope, to desire, to have faith and to be kind. I won't give up! I must always, always, always remember to put one foot in front of the other.~Tonyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00355887095326169962noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-209373291915349097.post-52887958284809263242012-06-29T22:58:00.001-05:002012-08-05T00:51:12.037-05:00A NEW Beginning...<a href="https://www.facebook.com/BraveGirlsClub"><img border="0" height="160" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqTbGCoiqu-WqNXXOFFRIqZ1CdqkYJRbWTtfFz4VQFUhqUdw3P1SnnMdesVvEoassYms2x7UU9GYR8jvHbHcD7f3BouGJZBOMvTEIztU0psRFx0_Uqh2k_0GMKV6BWTOfPk6dW8w0yEHwh/s400/551839_10151034820986410_743089284_n.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
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Quite a few changes have taken place in my life in the past couple of months. I graduated from college with honors, in May. My husband, of over 17 years of marriage, asked for a divorce in January and it made my last semester of college one of the most difficult to accomplish when it should've been one of the best semesters. Also, I moved out of our home June 1, with our three children.<br />
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Now, I am truly on my own. This is a new beginning, a new journey, and one that has best quite difficult, but also very rewarding. I celebrate the small victories and appreciate the struggles, as I learn to do things for myself, allow others to help me and not be too proud to ask for help when I need help. I have always been a pretty independent person, but I am learning everyday, that it is okay to ask for help. I am learning. I am listening. I am patient. I am persistent. I am wide awake.<br />
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I have been looking for a full-time job and I was offered a full-time job today and took it! It was my first interview and then they asked me for a second interview. I was LUCKY! There was over 100 applicants for this position, and I being the chosen one, I do consider myself pretty LUCKY! I am thankful to be given the opportunity. I am very THANKFUL. I look to the heavens each and everyday.<br />
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I hope to get back into writing regularly on my blog and in time, I do hope to start creating once again even if only for myself. I do miss creating, but times have been tough. Change is tough. Going through a divorce is tough. I am only just beginning the process of our divorce and it is hard.<br />
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For the longest time, I let fear control me. No longer will I allow fear to control me. I know that if I set my mind to certain things, I can do whatever it is! I had forgotten just how strong I was/I am. I just needed to believe in myself. I know I will be okay. I just have to trust that I am right where I am supposed to be. I just always have to remember that ~Life is a Journey - Not a Destination~~Tonyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00355887095326169962noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-209373291915349097.post-81707227447318826052012-02-10T00:07:00.002-06:002012-02-10T00:16:32.413-06:00Going Home...<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio6JuMjG22o1ekNm2HRJqdn4_1kMbcyRqVQPzfmAzQjgBjTlhOo2YdK7i-VUqo5d64haCilfsm4CK01fUPH3mZtMFqV6zzY8uOwXtUrLNrkUpMCNtnyLWcVIKLxpyuTvv662H7W2pkQRcb/s1600/Grandma.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 267px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio6JuMjG22o1ekNm2HRJqdn4_1kMbcyRqVQPzfmAzQjgBjTlhOo2YdK7i-VUqo5d64haCilfsm4CK01fUPH3mZtMFqV6zzY8uOwXtUrLNrkUpMCNtnyLWcVIKLxpyuTvv662H7W2pkQRcb/s400/Grandma.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5707384718222435074" border="0" /></a><br />My Grandma is going home and is now an angel, Feb. 9 - It was a beautiful sunrise this morning created just for her journey. This was one of my favorite pictures of her. She was walking with her great granddaughter. Grandma and I had our differences, but I still loved her. I never got to say good-bye and now am finding it very difficult. So many unanswered questions, thoughts, and feelings. I must move forward and remember the good times. I will miss her. May you find peace on your journey ♥ I love you Grandma Esther.~Tonyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00355887095326169962noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-209373291915349097.post-5360755505095304232011-12-31T11:41:00.002-06:002011-12-31T11:59:52.498-06:00Another year passes...<a href="http://www.google.com/imgres?hl=en&client=firefox-a&hs=CKj&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&biw=1280&bih=605&tbm=isch&tbnid=jZqUyZJRGOmS6M:&imgrefurl=http://www.sxc.hu/photo/539032&docid=C4uvLUHtn-h7oM&imgurl=http://www.sxc.hu/pic/m/n/nv/nvannett/539032_big_ben_midnight.jpg&w=300&h=273&ei=GEn_Tv3AC4qXgwfEwNyAAg&zoom=1&iact=hc&vpx=304&vpy=373&dur=159&hovh=154&hovw=169&tx=95&ty=83&sig=112686690523368167540&page=3&tbnh=117&tbnw=120&start=42&ndsp=21&ved=1t:429,r:15,s:42"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 273px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAzioWaP7-WaQ6zJOzsHbjwTbsq2JCAKTq7m82trvpaWnQFfzEYUz-35ndfKf57Qc2C1BoTND-6QyDgRy5VxOcjrlsUJWQYsO7lx8U_ZjEI-i5SIW_UjSksteQ7sWoQsbcO60ea5unkl9h/s400/midnight.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5692349178897770258" border="0" /></a>And at the strike of midnight a new year will be upon us. I will be spending a quiet evening at home with my daughter and son and his girlfriend. A perfect evening in my eyes. I am not one to party per-say. I like to visit and socialize, but I am not a drinker, I never have been. I was/am always the designated driver. I felt it was always a good thing so no one ever had to worry about drinking too much. I hope everyone that is choosing to drink this evening has a plan to get home safely.<br /><br />A new year to me means new goals. I don't really make resolutions, but I do have accomplishments that I want to complete and I do want to learn to accept the things I cannot change. I feel I am ever changing and for the better. Going to college has made me a better person and has made me more aware of so many things. Education, can it really do that? I think so. Education opens doors and minds. I will graduate in May and then I start another new adventure, a career. I have never had a career before. I have had jobs, and my art, which is my passion, but never a career. I miss my art, but it is still there, waiting...<br /><br />Soul-searching and reflecting is normally what I do this time of year. I feel it is important for each one of us to do that from time to time. We need to know who we are, who we want to be, where we are, and where we are going or want to be. Goals and dreams are also important for everyone to have. For the longest time I didn't dream and I didn't have goals. I didn't like the person I was becoming. I had to make changes for me and I am so glad that I did.<br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="color: rgb(255, 204, 102); font-weight: bold;">Wishing each of you a wonderful evening. Be safe! Happy New Year 2012! Here is to new dreams, new goals, health, and happiness! Cheers, Tonya</span></span>~Tonyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00355887095326169962noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-209373291915349097.post-11181382950498424482011-12-22T17:00:00.006-06:002011-12-25T08:07:30.333-06:00Winter?<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Frosty_trees_in_winter_wonderland_Helsinki_6.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxh-LGnGY5yL67ztFe3FoMVTuM6PiZGlrR_OTEpd-DL4r2U5JS7Mu1cYVhmZDXSdKxjnqUDRTcnssH6QrpguwHvbwMZ-fswNyhLKXmVWIDFziFgrTxNaXj15KUNcXNpCq_K6g78zTLyimm/s400/Winter+Tree.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5689092188670070898" border="0" /></a><br />I had to "borrow" a winter picture from the internet (hyper-link attached to the picture). Normally, this time of year we have plenty of snow, but not this year and that is fine by me. Some say that it does not "feel" like Christmas without any snow, but for me, I think the "feeling" of Christmas is from within and it is what is in your heart. I simply cannot believe how fast this month has flown by. It is nearly Christmas and I am still wondering where November went? Time seems to go by faster as I get older. Attending college sure doesn't help out with the whole time factor thou.<br /><br />I am happy to say that I received all A's in my classes, however, I did not make the president's list, but I did make the dean's list. Fine by me! I am happy and I did my best! Two of my generals' classes gave me a 'run for my money' and I honestly thought I was going receive a B in each class. I will take an A- anytime. I am elated to be finished with six more general credits, along side with the core classes that I completed this semester. There was a ton of reading in my generals' classes, as well as, essays, portfolio building, critiquing, discussions, and video watching with writing responses to the videos. They were both on-line classes. I am just glad to be done and I am doing the HAPPY DANCE!!<br /><br />I have break until January 9 and I am so very thankful. I can breathe and take some time for ME. I created some Christmas cards and thoroughly enjoyed myself. I stayed up way to late but it sure did feel good! I missed creating.<br /><br />Wishing each of you an enjoyable holiday season. May each of you feel the "Magic" of the season. Cheers, Tonya~Tonyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00355887095326169962noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-209373291915349097.post-72292846363097565082011-12-09T18:30:00.006-06:002011-12-09T19:08:54.288-06:00Feeling the PRESSURE!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlafUDzNb2iNXMSy1Yo6Mv961JBDx6HhrFn4aryggllz7_5X3bJWSsf2_nVtxmB8YGOmCBXcKZP7wgg9S78gvLbckEoNhHe33sXU5wxwq03voZACbMQsJ6e6qgHYdzJwTO3R_NdIshdU2Y/s1600/pressure.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 319px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlafUDzNb2iNXMSy1Yo6Mv961JBDx6HhrFn4aryggllz7_5X3bJWSsf2_nVtxmB8YGOmCBXcKZP7wgg9S78gvLbckEoNhHe33sXU5wxwq03voZACbMQsJ6e6qgHYdzJwTO3R_NdIshdU2Y/s400/pressure.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5684290759531091426" border="0" /></a><br />Next week is the last week of this semester and I must admit, I couldn't be more thrilled! This semester has virtually kicked my butt! I am not one that likes to read in long lengths and this semester I have done more reading than I care to even think about. I am not much of a reader, unless it is one of my magazines with my favorite artists or it has something to do with creating.<br /><br />I am in Intro. to Art (an online course) and basically all I get to do is READ! Yup, chapter after chapter. Can we say FUN? And if that weren't enough, I have Freshman English and more reading. Double fun! I still have to work on my final essay, which is an argumentative essay. I completed my English final today...I hope I did okay. It is a tough class and I did the best I could.<br /><br />I get to complete four more finals. I will be done the end of next week. It could not come soon enough because I am totally FEELING THE PRESSURE! Anxiety has kicked in and I am exhausted. I really can see the light at the end of the tunnel.<br /><br />Spring semester is just around the corner and I will finally get to play! I am registered for Ceramics 1, Painting 1, Two-Dimensional Art, and I have two online core classes. I just hope I will enjoy myself while fulfilling some of my generals. I completed all of my mandatory generals and the remaining generals were free reign. Of course, I had to sign up for a little bit of art. I was a little bit disappointed that they did not offer a photography course during the spring semester. I registered for what was available.<br /><br />During the week of December 19, I hope I will be able to create some cards. I know a bit late and they will probably be received late, but "better late - than never!" I am itching to use some of my new Tim Holtz winter Sizzix dies. I want to make something similar to <span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" ><a style="color: rgb(102, 255, 255);" href="http://timholtz.typepad.com/my_weblog/2011/11/12-tags-of-christmastag-1.html">this</a></span>, but I have not received my pine cone die. The NOEL die is one of my favorite for latest releases. It has such a vintage look to it. My cards will have to do without the pine cone for those that are being sent in the mail. Is anyone else following the <a href="http://timholtz.typepad.com/my_weblog/"><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="color: rgb(51, 255, 255); font-weight: bold;">"12 Tags of Christmas"</span></span></a> on Tim's blog? I love waking up each morning and getting my Tim - tag fix. I love this time of year. I can't believe this is already day 9 and there are only 3 more tags left. I love learning new techniques and I simply cannot wait to have time to try some of those new techniques. I keep tell myself..."all in good time!"<br /><br />Back to the grindstone...more studying. Cheers to each of you!~Tonyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00355887095326169962noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-209373291915349097.post-91413997179508988892011-11-10T09:55:00.003-06:002011-11-10T12:08:47.751-06:00Take Time to Give Thanks!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://tryhandmade.com/give-thanks/"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 339px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5zX-ZxwkiWf-iqOD-06C-PjJHjPCJtcreJ-wgMbwT-eBVdTcjtfrpXswn-SKrLdHosKSjFnoh3V3eG5Ka9rJ8qjuMKMlUabgm76amEK8ZIzJTMNTM-btZyBmE4ZcdYfhm_Q86itvdQnp7/s400/thanks.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5673396430736339154" border="0" /></a>Each year around this time all we hear is about "Black Friday" this and "I want that for Christmas." Well, I went to check my yahoo mail and found an <a style="color: rgb(255, 204, 0);" href="http://finance.yahoo.com/news/wal-mart-black-friday-circular-102300150.html">article about 'Black Friday' promotions for Wal-Mar</a>t. I don't know why they are calling it 'Black Friday' when most are having it on Thursday evening.<br /><br />This move, (the Thursday evening bit) really bothers me. I feel Thanksgiving is a time to be with family. I feel that we should 'Give Thanks' and take time to be 'thankful' for all the things we do have instead of worrying about the things we may <span style="font-style: italic;">want.</span> What has happened to the thought of family and spending good quality time with one another? I think that is a major part of what is wrong with society.<br /><br />Most are so busy with their electronic devices that no one pays attention to what is really going on around them and within their home. I was reading some of the comments that people are have made on the <a style="color: rgb(255, 204, 0);" href="http://finance.yahoo.com/news/wal-mart-black-friday-circular-102300150.html">Wal-Mart article</a> and I applaud most of them! They say to "buy American." "Stay home with your family" and "have a family breakfast." Some also stated, because of opening so early in the evening, some do not even get to be with their families on Thanksgiving because they have work for the 'Black Friday' preparation. How sad that we have put 'things' as our priority in life, rather than 'family.'<br /><br />I just know that as I get older, I realize what is important to me, in my life, and it is not"things!" I wish more people would take the time to be with family this season and be appreciative for what we/they do have. Be thankful that you do have your loved ones to spend this time with.<br /><br />I am going to get back to my studying. I have to create a portfolio in art, write a critique essay for English, work on my spreadsheets, and also my Integrated documents. I am starting to feel a bit overwhelmed...but I am taking it one day at a time and putting one foot in front of the other. That is all I can do. I hope you have a wonderful day! Cheers, ~Tonya<br /><br />FYI- the picture listed was found <a style="color: rgb(255, 204, 0);" href="http://tryhandmade.com/give-thanks/">here</a> and I thought it was a really neat picture. A little to do with art and it said the 'sentiment' that I wanted to say. I clicked on it and what did I find? A blog that says "Try Handmade" at the top! How appropriate!!~Tonyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00355887095326169962noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-209373291915349097.post-85495619858281907592011-10-31T20:32:00.004-05:002011-10-31T20:51:52.434-05:00HAPPY HALLOWEEN to ME!!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://terribrushdesigns.blogspot.com/"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 321px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP6e89-EJWc38Ii6T6Yz5x5zidyAKigmQLUlEUUytSCVZs8TINISKPyCP8Z4Ofls_Ox1gEYkzE46qPe-IPbJI0nNyLHj-4fgxAuVN7AUWldSYNh_9wpAnPLHZedZBW-2PwzKZpX3mF6Im_/s400/Terri+1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5669834482155001186" border="0" /></a>I was LUCKY enough to be chosen for an <a href="http://terribrushdesigns.blogspot.com/"><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 153, 0);">ART CAMP from Terri Brush!</span><span style="text-decoration: underline; font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 153, 0);"></span><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 153, 0);"> </span></span></a> I still cannot believe that I WON! I am in sheer bliss and will have something to look forward to during the long cold winter months. If that was not enough, I was also given the flight to Oregon from another very generous person. Talk about the stars perfectly aligning for this to happen...Things like this do not happen to me (normally)! I was on Cloud 9 all day and still am!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://terribrushdesigns.blogspot.com/"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXWhJSrJmPK_4lNcNYaIu2IZCLM4iPDKdmtvudkwOo40TYshoevyPGRKugpV0QocF-7JqcSF67lcwwTtQQK9L-ACKiVRLs_qJEf6WKKrilK9PKurLhnaOtJTHzFobzgS2HzcrvGrEjHbNM/s400/Terri2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5669834478419905842" border="0" /></a><br />This is a picture from the gals that were just at <a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://terribrushdesigns.blogspot.com/"><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="color: rgb(255, 153, 0);">Art Camp</span></span></a> in October. From visiting Terri's blog, I can tell they all had a wonderful time! Everything looks AMAZING! From the art classes, to the food, the desserts (my favorite), the ocean view, making new friends, and so many wonderful memories made are all priceless! I can't wait until April to make my own memories and friends that will last a lifetime!<br /><br />I cannot express my feelings into words appropriately for such generous gifts from two women whom I've never met. Thank you for the bottom of my heart ~ you will never know how much this means to me.<br /><br />After a long day at school, then being at my daughter's fall party at school as a room parent, and then out trick or treating with my daughter's....it is finally nice to be home! HAPPY HALLOWEEN to all of you! I just know this is one Halloween that I will remember for the rest of my life!~Tonyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00355887095326169962noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-209373291915349097.post-6878459187616209302011-10-28T11:44:00.004-05:002011-10-28T11:58:10.924-05:00To everything there is a season...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-iyy0wn2gAj4gLUnC63qCt1KDzaUOHZXGrsNpS9CozegLPyTKG8kbejsV5-clD9F4TzK98ZPuc2NdhB7Lsk1yhyphenhyphenBZtWFPrmA6GawFR2EMbUggHqhVZ_iUqxGVFZvC_hARMUCBstHq0lUC/s1600/autumn1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 274px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-iyy0wn2gAj4gLUnC63qCt1KDzaUOHZXGrsNpS9CozegLPyTKG8kbejsV5-clD9F4TzK98ZPuc2NdhB7Lsk1yhyphenhyphenBZtWFPrmA6GawFR2EMbUggHqhVZ_iUqxGVFZvC_hARMUCBstHq0lUC/s400/autumn1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5668584924723898386" border="0" /></a>As time goes by I am reminded that to everything there is a season and a purpose. Time must be appreciated. Time is so very precious to me but stands still for no one. I am in my second year of college and half way through my third semester. I will graduate in May! I can't help but think of all the time I spend with my nose in the books and completing homework, yet, there is a purpose and I must obtain my goal. I must keep putting one foot in front of the other.<br /><br />I miss creating and having free time. Free time to just "BE." Be able to spend time with my children without having to worry about what assignment or essay is due. Be able to just rest, if only for a while, without having (what feels like) the weight of the world on my shoulders. I know there are others that are going through the same thing or worse, but I can't help but wonder ~ When will life get easier?<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><div id="prayer"> <p><span class="bigcap">T</span>o everything there is a season,<br />a time for every purpose under the sun.<br />A time to be born and a time to die;<br />a time to plant and a time to pluck up that which is planted;<br />a time to kill and a time to heal ...<br />a time to weep and a time to laugh;<br />a time to mourn and a time to dance ...<br />a time to embrace and a time to refrain from embracing;<br />a time to lose and a time to seek;<br />a time to rend and a time to sew;<br />a time to keep silent and a time to speak;<br />a time to love and a time to hate;<br />a time for war and a time for peace.</p> </div> <div class="credit">ecclesiastes 3:1-8</div></div>~Tonyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00355887095326169962noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-209373291915349097.post-29430931417480856362011-10-12T14:19:00.005-05:002011-10-28T13:24:01.402-05:00I Am...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4Q6aLzFY4T71pfvomAKzY52cs1uD6Tppd3Dync0SwvZiETRzq806sDqffZPMYs-MZyfK1d9suqzEsE84_qg8S_meMoMyABWvs7RUilv2yAy2UAqgHaCYjEs1fg9W7dQWqoGgnD_XwrTiN/s1600/I+AM.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 351px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4Q6aLzFY4T71pfvomAKzY52cs1uD6Tppd3Dync0SwvZiETRzq806sDqffZPMYs-MZyfK1d9suqzEsE84_qg8S_meMoMyABWvs7RUilv2yAy2UAqgHaCYjEs1fg9W7dQWqoGgnD_XwrTiN/s400/I+AM.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5662687800487281794" border="0" /></a>I found this inspirational quote on Facebook. I think it fits me to a "T" and I feel most women can relate. If not, then they may be fooling themselves? I know that I have not been posting much on creating, but I am truly finding myself, somewhere out there.<br /><br />I am becoming educated. I am more patient. I am more in-tune to my own thoughts and own feelings. I am hopeful. I am building for my future. I am content.My eyes and mind are wide open. At the same time, I am scared. I am lost. I am confused. I feel detached. I feel alone.<br /><br />Isn't it amazing how we can feel whole and feel broken all at once. Emotions are very complicated if you try to put them into perspective. I know that I am becoming more of a person that I have always wanted to be. I am!~Tonyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00355887095326169962noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-209373291915349097.post-33520202508825453252011-10-03T15:11:00.003-05:002011-10-03T15:18:38.062-05:00~~~SALE - SALE - SALE~~~<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/backporchpickins?ref=pr_shop_more"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 311px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0xNKC2AJ3ePqkKjOppcMBLhXxRAF1_42HBko0SkGrJnpkxw0cn9XeinBm2FuKEg41HMbbbLH1Aw4B85BBSJPeBNXO3ib1NFRQNGwK-ucnulCwQ172MDNKqTH3su5jSYKaogM1tRO0ddhu/s400/SPOOKY40+coupon.png" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5659361197453796498" border="0" /></a>Who doesn't LOVE a SALE? I am having a 40% off SALE in my <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/backporchpickins?ref=pr_shop_more"><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" ><span style="color: rgb(51, 255, 51);">Etsy shoppe!</span></span></a> Go take a peek and see if there is an epattern you must have. If there is a epattern you would like and don't see it listed, just leave a comment or convo me and I will be happy to create a listing for you. The coupon code is SPOOKY40 just enter that in at the time of check out and it will take 40% off your purchase! Just click on the image and it will take you to my shoppe...<br /><br />I do have one dollie listed and yes, she is 40% off. I have not had any time for creating and I miss it terribly. I have had my nose to the books and learning quite a bit. We are smack dab in the middle of an INDIAN SUMMER and I am loving it! Enjoy each day to the fullest! ~Tonya~Tonyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00355887095326169962noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-209373291915349097.post-72910543189730551542011-08-19T20:33:00.005-05:002011-08-19T20:41:44.641-05:00~Scary Mary Halloween Doll~<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/80111980/halloween-folk-art-primitive-skelly-doll"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 302px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1eaQLtnlLH7MAJynSjfgCP52jNJm0WsklVkk0qFQLXHoQK7DQBcI_BZY-32HopXnUbB5VDxi8MRo-kB-rjLMvXEWp3aeOwR2AtzWKvG8jXvgZbf3EMSWQiRDwVMZiKlvtvHe3RmaEJrZG/s400/scary+mary2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5642745704771502866" border="0" /></a>***FINALLY*** a NEW Halloween Dollie! I should just say a NEW dollie in general. I think I have only made one other dollie this year and that was a dollie with bunny ears. This is my first Halloween dollie. Halloween is just around the corner. I have listed her in m<span style="text-decoration: underline;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"></span></span><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/80111980/halloween-folk-art-primitive-skelly-doll"><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="color: rgb(204, 102, 0); font-weight: bold;"></span></span></a>y <span style="font-size:130%;"><a style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0); font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/80111980/halloween-folk-art-primitive-skelly-doll">Etsy Shoppe</a></span>, but if she does not sell by Tuesday, I may move her to Ebay, we shall see...
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<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/80111980/halloween-folk-art-primitive-skelly-doll"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 302px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjW1_YPJSYd6tunCYAEluyChRHAtHznkpTeny8tHOpcxwXQfKA5mMtBDwPE0CpwNSmDMBviGz5UsUme1oAIsZ-x4jlK3uyEofy_czZIYuiapYh_MmsiXpVo8AyYRj0UHfVdmu23Imt9e3I/s400/scary+mary1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5642745703212213986" border="0" /></a>
<br />Her name is Scary Mary, but she really does have a sweet side to her. She has tons of detail. I really enjoyed creating her. I have missed creating. I was so busy with my summer college courses and children, that I didn't have any time until now for creating. I do hope that you will stop by my <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/80111980/halloween-folk-art-primitive-skelly-doll"><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="color: rgb(204, 102, 0); font-weight: bold;"></span></span></a><span style="font-size:130%;"><a style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0); font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/80111980/halloween-folk-art-primitive-skelly-doll">Etsy Shoppe</a></span> to take a peek at her. Have a wonderful weekend. ~Tonya
<br />~Tonyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00355887095326169962noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-209373291915349097.post-22520432187045372822011-08-14T19:40:00.006-05:002011-08-14T21:16:53.680-05:00Oh, how they grow!!!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghYNDuqeNHKBya0DmHOIer7TEVjM-Ur4quoLhfgVZpj70fEh96zyxr2Q9LnUfD-vMgx2QtUUnWtAZPdPqtpD-1kyJSR5-QIhrkfOEECxRigpiu-owb49ai7ArvNEF2qaHUUpcuosIO2S85/s1600/DSCF0003.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghYNDuqeNHKBya0DmHOIer7TEVjM-Ur4quoLhfgVZpj70fEh96zyxr2Q9LnUfD-vMgx2QtUUnWtAZPdPqtpD-1kyJSR5-QIhrkfOEECxRigpiu-owb49ai7ArvNEF2qaHUUpcuosIO2S85/s400/DSCF0003.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5640880687788590290" border="0" /></a>Since I have not posted to my blog for so long, some of you may think that I have fallen off the face of the earth. Jordan, my oldest, has turned 16! He turned 16 on August 2. I made his favorite for his birthday cake, homemade strawberry shortcake, from scratch and real whipped cream. YUM!!
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<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj8wQWFI_Ghyphenhyphen2cTqczgeW5GNpihk8mXVfCpqpOz7SYm_xcPHIcuOHI1wEuRFIT4H0oRa1KqiTD5B7DEIlptX0v8Fwkq381VDQnFjdoYr8GApyjL9YsPeyzheK7lbcbDmF8GHObfAmvPCz7/s1600/IMG_0529.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj8wQWFI_Ghyphenhyphen2cTqczgeW5GNpihk8mXVfCpqpOz7SYm_xcPHIcuOHI1wEuRFIT4H0oRa1KqiTD5B7DEIlptX0v8Fwkq381VDQnFjdoYr8GApyjL9YsPeyzheK7lbcbDmF8GHObfAmvPCz7/s400/IMG_0529.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5640880680262494194" border="0" /></a>
<br />Look at the height on him! He is about 6'2" now and I feel like a midget compared to him. I am only about 5'7". Wow, I feel short compared to him. Jordan was staying with my sister for almost a whole month. He was working for Pioneer in the fields. I missed him! I couldn't stay away thou, I did go and visit.
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<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXmdCSLg6xbG1bHDDbhEKyj7nYesvNMn6j2jo1LZsaTuPziFvtYvPIfFahOh1JrzNuzyo1KZ0gKWqtp0LYJmN5eRIVcXUu0PQYmBods0IKHXbYMgwMWom8lGdOS4Ne1SNB2uZ-SnqBiv_f/s1600/DSCF0011.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXmdCSLg6xbG1bHDDbhEKyj7nYesvNMn6j2jo1LZsaTuPziFvtYvPIfFahOh1JrzNuzyo1KZ0gKWqtp0LYJmN5eRIVcXUu0PQYmBods0IKHXbYMgwMWom8lGdOS4Ne1SNB2uZ-SnqBiv_f/s400/DSCF0011.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5640880692158889970" border="0" /></a>
<br />Then there was Courtney's birthday! She turned 14 on August 4. My middle child, she is growing up to be quite the young lady.
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<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6QFQZovlAGDp_KSGl64jt8JBWnEYI09QQcrB1kYPy3UBWsSzYq73HIs5t9ZIp1TX0LqiN9Z2K4XIAY2_54yIZ1poACDGkw9spmBvEEMt9iW0E94GsEp5r_wut2S9koXsAm6BtVJkblB1R/s1600/IMG_0523.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6QFQZovlAGDp_KSGl64jt8JBWnEYI09QQcrB1kYPy3UBWsSzYq73HIs5t9ZIp1TX0LqiN9Z2K4XIAY2_54yIZ1poACDGkw9spmBvEEMt9iW0E94GsEp5r_wut2S9koXsAm6BtVJkblB1R/s400/IMG_0523.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5640882760883552130" border="0" /></a>
<br />And last but not least, my Ninny (Sydney) my youngest. She will be 10 next month. This picture was taken on my birthday (August 9) and I am now officially 38 years young. I sure don't feel 38. When people get older, they say "Another year older and another year wiser." This year, I can honestly say that is true!!
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<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0h7dcG_FVc9L6NgZBSm_IwKYtc3HAve9RW7NS_7yHTrJ5MEQH0paeotvV74E8IJL449f7HUjfg3PVm5hgjE9OGDXILc-9aV9jqP55xl9Q9CzQA2pst9gKhN0o6HkQuPUqefz8aUpGO1hQ/s1600/IMG_0545.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0h7dcG_FVc9L6NgZBSm_IwKYtc3HAve9RW7NS_7yHTrJ5MEQH0paeotvV74E8IJL449f7HUjfg3PVm5hgjE9OGDXILc-9aV9jqP55xl9Q9CzQA2pst9gKhN0o6HkQuPUqefz8aUpGO1hQ/s400/IMG_0545.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5640880701471945090" border="0" /></a>
<br />The day after my birthday, I took my kids and my nephew, to Valleyfair amusement park. We had a BLAST! This is Jordan, Sydney, and Cody on Thunder Canyon. Courtney and I didn't want to get wet just yet. I loved all the rides, I always do! Yup, you can't keep me off the rides, especially the roller coasters. The faster and taller, all the more fun! I will ride on rides that some of my kids won't. LOL See, still a kid at heart ♥
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<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhccPwnmpD1I9feCq8rN_gamHvaTeakqacMK1cxb9y0MeDnoR2C5XHO9ICNVCxN5yqWF-OcOVMwHIyNkeApBi_lmwPoz-DbdmSDhianFOSUl34EbCqpwTgwB96kWMX9pDnZfQ1wW_QCz2xI/s1600/DSCF0017.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhccPwnmpD1I9feCq8rN_gamHvaTeakqacMK1cxb9y0MeDnoR2C5XHO9ICNVCxN5yqWF-OcOVMwHIyNkeApBi_lmwPoz-DbdmSDhianFOSUl34EbCqpwTgwB96kWMX9pDnZfQ1wW_QCz2xI/s400/DSCF0017.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5640882772568189714" border="0" /></a>
<br />And then on August 12, my son got his license! I can honestly say I am a bit worried about him being on the road, but I am mom, and that is my job! He is a good driver. This is Jordan in his new set of wheels. He got a new paint job on his truck, along with rhino on the bottom. Looks pretty sharp; if I do say so myself!
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<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOGQY_waxrwxdZHAEgBS8sQjdT0qYkQwJXj_d6lsR2fmgJUbcbzko5Gz20qRPiwgAIBhr6n204ZSMSaSVuiVkJxIwRO9LJisSrV_vKzggQd_J2mo5n9ECysDT6l5X7HYIYUij6EX208O8c/s1600/DSCF0016.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOGQY_waxrwxdZHAEgBS8sQjdT0qYkQwJXj_d6lsR2fmgJUbcbzko5Gz20qRPiwgAIBhr6n204ZSMSaSVuiVkJxIwRO9LJisSrV_vKzggQd_J2mo5n9ECysDT6l5X7HYIYUij6EX208O8c/s400/DSCF0016.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5640882769421042898" border="0" /></a>Funny boy, he said he was going to wait to get it painted until after he got home from working in the fields...good thing mom is always a quick thinker and on her toes! He said, "Mom, I am so glad I got it painted before I got my license, there is no way I could wait to have it painted while I have my license."
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<br />I finished my Biology class early, so that I could enjoy what little there is left of summer, with my children. We also went and visited my mom (grandma to my kids) today. It was beautiful day and we had a very nice visit. What more could I ask for? Time just goes by too quickly.
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<br />FYI - Those same two dollies are still on my studio table. I must get to working on them. Maybe sometime this week....I have a little down time where I may be able to play! Knock on wood! I hope you have all had an enjoyable summer. Cheers to you! ~Tonya
<br />~Tonyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00355887095326169962noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-209373291915349097.post-39918466664726601362011-07-29T02:11:00.003-05:002011-08-14T18:34:08.488-05:00Time flies!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgupiifkUwlKpe6p6QdY8dKqCI6nH5QcmDzo-linlGNs6TCCbuGkYFNP8s1aLCSQ9C-2FtJ-KPSu0E-RNVnUwAvdARKRGn1yAmNG3hIDrfCk7Ucqy9nxrtuUGTFtd6giEyulKpI7Dp3ZJhN/s1600/Biology.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 312px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgupiifkUwlKpe6p6QdY8dKqCI6nH5QcmDzo-linlGNs6TCCbuGkYFNP8s1aLCSQ9C-2FtJ-KPSu0E-RNVnUwAvdARKRGn1yAmNG3hIDrfCk7Ucqy9nxrtuUGTFtd6giEyulKpI7Dp3ZJhN/s400/Biology.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5634668702273994882" border="0" /></a>
<br />When you are having fun? I wouldn't say that I have been having fun, but I sure am learning quite a bit! I have not posted on my blog for well over a month and all I can say is "I have been working my butt off!"
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<br />We had a major sale at our home. We got rid of a lot of stuff. I have gone through and organized most everything in my home. I have thrown away a ton of JUNK that no one would want and we certainly do not need and boy....does it feel good! Besides all of that, I have been taking my second summer college course and I must admit, these summer courses are pretty intense, demanding, and so much more work than what I ever thought! I also helped my son with some of his body work on his truck (many hours), it is being painted as we speak.
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<br />Jordan is staying at my sister's house while working for Pioneer (I miss him) and I will pick him up on the 1st for him to stay home for one night, put his truck back together and spend his birthday with him on the 2nd. He is going to take his driving test (fingers crossed that he passes) and then back to Mankato to work for the following day. I can't believe he is turning 16 already!
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<br />Back to the Biology thing, the summer courses move along very quickly, so there is no room for error, no room for procrastination, and you just must force yourself to do your work accordingly! Summer for me has been my nose to the books and essay questions, some discussions, and lots of tests! I have found new hope within myself, I have become focused, and have almost dropped 20 pounds! Can we say focused! I have to be...
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<br />I have found many things out about myself and who I want to be and who I don't want to be. There comes a time in each person's life when they finally put all the pieces together and know exactly where I want them to be.
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<br />Now for the creating aspect of me...I miss creating immensely! I have two Halloween dollies on my studio table waiting to be stained and put together! I will get there. I am trying to work a head in class so that I can spend time with Jordan on the 2nd and Courtney on the 4th for their birthdays. Then, the class is over on the 13th, but I am hoping I will be done before that. We shall see. Time has just not been on my slide this summer and time tends to slip away from me much to often. I hope all is well for all of you! Cheers, ~Tonya~Tonyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00355887095326169962noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-209373291915349097.post-83962736593753689252011-06-14T09:32:00.004-05:002011-06-14T20:57:40.478-05:00FUN - FUN!!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAACCFHKXfJUf_n8OZUXvtZOlv_ViYo5lTy6qK72unEsicbIzeE_QCfavuO_qH-QUPiCewwcrlrrsaBzQXtA45U7D9DHPSqLib2jOfK2VLenJMKhGohNiGoY-HYBlmlWPLFt7C6APa46yX/s1600/sociologylab.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 352px; height: 307px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAACCFHKXfJUf_n8OZUXvtZOlv_ViYo5lTy6qK72unEsicbIzeE_QCfavuO_qH-QUPiCewwcrlrrsaBzQXtA45U7D9DHPSqLib2jOfK2VLenJMKhGohNiGoY-HYBlmlWPLFt7C6APa46yX/s400/sociologylab.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5618083852980583938" border="0" /></a><br /><em></em><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" ><em>Sociology</em>, the scientific study of human social behavior.</span> This is what I have been studying lately. A summer course. Imagine knocking out a whole book, I believe 22 chapters, in just 5 short weeks. Not to mention that I am getting ready for a MASSIVE sale for the last weekend in June!<br /><br />In Sociology, we need to read/study 4 chapters every week, answer questions on them, and have a 3 hour test every single week for 5 weeks. I have the first week under my belt already. I only have 4 more weeks to go. I then have a 2 day break and on to another course, Biology. Can we say FUN - FUN?<br /><br />I have been dabbling with my poor little dollies that are laying on my studio table wanting some much needed attention. Of course they are Halloween dollies. I could not help myself, I could no longer resist the temptation. Everyone knows that I adore Halloween and it is my most favorite time of the year to create for. If you think about it, there is not that much time until Halloween.<br /><br />Just thought I would stop in and say Hello. I have been a very bad blogger, but with everything that has been going on in my world, it cannot be helped. Have a beautiful day! Cheers, Tonya~Tonyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00355887095326169962noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-209373291915349097.post-43561416958955668722011-05-27T14:50:00.002-05:002011-05-27T15:00:01.329-05:00What is up with blogger lately?<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4wAaJ4FQ6Td_nI4UQ8RGalBvnUtEzNshHXYGM-pBXWPPYwZ20sBfp8AQe-lg5TCChIPj2lIRONBQzfahh5sj2CNUPazdbpgrejQmw89d_Moe73GAw40RE6g8QfeTezuqtt2W7Gx01P5aa/s1600/blogger_icon.png"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 366px; height: 123px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4wAaJ4FQ6Td_nI4UQ8RGalBvnUtEzNshHXYGM-pBXWPPYwZ20sBfp8AQe-lg5TCChIPj2lIRONBQzfahh5sj2CNUPazdbpgrejQmw89d_Moe73GAw40RE6g8QfeTezuqtt2W7Gx01P5aa/s400/blogger_icon.png" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5611486141427502754" border="0" /></a>What has been up with blogger lately? I have wanted to blog, not that I have anything interesting going on ;) I have tried to get into my dashboard to visit the blogs I follow, but that has been a hurdle to jump as well.<br /><br />On my desktop, my blog things are not at the top of the page, so I tried my laptop and yes, it worked, which now makes me lead to believe that I may have a virus. JOY! I have scanned and scanned my desktop, still no change with the blogger issue. I don't know...<br /><br />I give up! It is simply not worth the time I have spent on it. On another note, it is MAY and we have our furnace on! What is wrong with the picture. We have had rain, wind, and cooler temps. It feels like fall all over again. This crazy Minnesota weather. My heart goes out to all of the families that have been affected by the tornadoes and the devastation the tornadoes have left behind. My thoughts and prayers are with all of them.~Tonyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00355887095326169962noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-209373291915349097.post-69407077149246172222011-05-13T16:29:00.002-05:002011-05-13T16:32:53.692-05:00Loving it!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIweBn1_D6RMYftEQ5DfNQaOJIrWMXLbWOVs-YbJsTTkFIzGUMZ2irBFfUIij3yg2gEIxvIkm96c2Z_0-9tcJ7-cQE4fHBMcBTwvRoUU27guk5hN93_AK_9EcAOacYv4402hC9Q_nahmg/s1600/living+room+update+3+2011.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 306px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIweBn1_D6RMYftEQ5DfNQaOJIrWMXLbWOVs-YbJsTTkFIzGUMZ2irBFfUIij3yg2gEIxvIkm96c2Z_0-9tcJ7-cQE4fHBMcBTwvRoUU27guk5hN93_AK_9EcAOacYv4402hC9Q_nahmg/s400/living+room+update+3+2011.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5606311351535871330" border="0" /></a>Recently we purchased some new furniture (still waiting for our other sofa) but I thought I would show you my progress so far. I love the contemporary and somewhat whimsical look to my now "new living room." I would have never chose a color scheme or furniture design like this a couple of years ago. I guess I can say that I have changed quite a bit.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhobB82Qe_rqS-hmtUZ9uQ9LQOrcWcsFFHsyXGLhdPHiYqOIy5Fn_ecW3NwjaaXk9bXhHz73CxZguUfRkUbyPLhXJnZJXvcEQZaqH_ooa9rNIxnV3pMAxFDkfZzDsDrXXTTXE9W0WaO_V0/s1600/living+room+update+2011.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 264px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhobB82Qe_rqS-hmtUZ9uQ9LQOrcWcsFFHsyXGLhdPHiYqOIy5Fn_ecW3NwjaaXk9bXhHz73CxZguUfRkUbyPLhXJnZJXvcEQZaqH_ooa9rNIxnV3pMAxFDkfZzDsDrXXTTXE9W0WaO_V0/s400/living+room+update+2011.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5606311344302779890" border="0" /></a>I love the crisp look to my living room. It is uncluttered and it is very inviting, not to mention very cheery! Every time I see the new vinyl wall art, it makes me smile. I have wanted to do something with vinyl wall art for years, but frankly, I was a bit scared. I can now say, that I am glad I finally took the plunge!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9Yp5wHkhWP2ylOitBJxQlWm9WM8UJeAXFw8YzjIdV2wyKrzIVIj2efs-3uSre1AV3fluo95Gm9joIjyPxa_UXQXLWZb5o_tE9LfV7Q27jI2EMXCfIeQfPod3Dx_ayHTarLQuMMhOWIjI/s1600/living+room+update+2+2011.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 306px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9Yp5wHkhWP2ylOitBJxQlWm9WM8UJeAXFw8YzjIdV2wyKrzIVIj2efs-3uSre1AV3fluo95Gm9joIjyPxa_UXQXLWZb5o_tE9LfV7Q27jI2EMXCfIeQfPod3Dx_ayHTarLQuMMhOWIjI/s400/living+room+update+2+2011.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5606311347951755730" border="0" /></a>In the first photo, you can see that the wall is a pretty yellow. Again, I never thought I would have yellow in my home. As I get older, my decorating is changing, not to mention many, many other things. Just to name a few, my thoughts, my views, and my style per-say. I am very pleased with the wall art and my living room and thought I would share.<br /><br />On another note, I am done with spring semester! Yay! I always get so stressed the last week of the semester. I can say that I received a 4.0 for 16 credits/6 classes for spring semester and I couldn't be happier. I will be listed on the president's list this time. I made the dean's list for the fall semester, which was my first semester back in 18 years. I can say that I am happy, but it was a lot of hard work! I am at the half-way mark. I just hope everything goes as planned and I graduate next year at this time.<br /><br />Have a fabulous weekend. As for me, I have the whole weekend to do whatever it is I want to do. I have not had time like that in a very long time. Cheers, ~Tonya~Tonyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00355887095326169962noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-209373291915349097.post-11002957194403937752011-05-06T07:41:00.003-05:002011-05-09T22:13:17.198-05:00There is light...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYGe9gw68OkJeLifGD9kJ2q-5yOSAddviIZIBk2sexZK65y1fWiKf6-RUUfTuea_QHiQ_bv__JwUmCclS8d2UZjMZAdVX29DcQjjOqfpvIjNu_bv43qcTLEDgY8HU7nmBs0KTC1Si06VdQ/s1600/tunnel.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 265px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYGe9gw68OkJeLifGD9kJ2q-5yOSAddviIZIBk2sexZK65y1fWiKf6-RUUfTuea_QHiQ_bv__JwUmCclS8d2UZjMZAdVX29DcQjjOqfpvIjNu_bv43qcTLEDgY8HU7nmBs0KTC1Si06VdQ/s400/tunnel.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5603582426317881858" border="0" /></a>at the end of the tunnel for me! This semester has been long and I am so relieved that it is almost over. I think I may still have the winter "hum-drums", from have such a long winter and a slow start to spring. Finally, I see light at the end of the tunnel!<br /><br />I have only a couple of finals left and then I will be finished with this semester on Wednesday! I can hardly contain the excitement. I also started a part-time job as a general assistant. What was I thinking? It is at a place where they do a lot of printing and for the most part, make reproductions of manuals. They also print many other things and put transfers on t-shirts as well. There is a lot of different things to learn there and I figured I could use the experience, as I have not worked outside my home for anyone else in about 10 years.<br /><br />I have not created, nor blogged, there has not been anything fun to share. My thoughts were, same thing, different day, so why blog about it, right? I have signed up for a couple of summer classes (I may just be torturing myself?) and I have heard that summer classes can be brutal. We shall see. I want to knock some of my generals out of the way. I would be able to knock 6 credits out in just 25 days for each class. I am sure it can be done, but I will have to stay focused and stay on top of my studies!<br /><br />Just thought I would say hello! Looks to be a fabulous day and well it is finally starting to feel a little like spring! Enjoy your Friday and your weekend. Cheers, ~Tonya~Tonyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00355887095326169962noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-209373291915349097.post-1191384893712342512011-03-30T22:29:00.006-05:002011-03-30T22:44:17.953-05:00Handmade Art Fair...<div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.handmadeartfair.com/"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 180px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl14ueVezIVbtrSWeN2lU9przyEneHOk-qOYYKjG9DnyC61-hgVHtizE8eKq1r1lMuIkNnN0GZBb9DxI7OdNkh6nLLIfYLtU1eK4RLPtzptzcdUMVBWKAa-EsSWEvJJpuKvKrtf4KIXdg4/s400/bunny+banner+22.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5590083604651928482" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /><a href="http://www.handmadeartfair.com/"><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(102, 204, 204); font-style: italic;">Be sure to HOP-ON-OVER<br />Handmade Art Fair<br />SPRING EXTRAVAGANZA!!</span></a><br /><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.handmadeartfair.com/"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 102px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq3Z37uVaOit_15ayTm6QkVU-I4z9tA-MSdKcYfrmGui30xOOZJq5AOhquwa7qSyb1J57vzNxM6IxY1lvk8CuWr-0O92lS34Y-VJsmGEsMj7r2Irly08gS0wVoHjxu4NuHNSgdK5SBAr-A/s400/hafbanner20112-1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5590081342148463698" border="0" /></a>Have you visited<a href="http://www.handmadeartfair.com/"><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 204, 255);font-size:130%;" > ~Handmade Art Fair~ </span></a> yet? Such a neat site! I love the way it has each artists' page is linked to everywhere they are and what they create. You will have to take the time to stop by if you have not done so lately.<br /><br />Spring is in the air and I can smell it! It has been one long and cold winter. Bring on the SUNSHINE & FLOWERS. Cheers, Tonya</div>~Tonyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00355887095326169962noreply@blogger.com1