All Cacti, All the Time!

I know. I live in the Southwest. And when people come to visit our great state, they are generally looking for a few things. Mexican food, Mariachis, and cacti. Hahaha! Makes me laugh too.

The last, really makes me laugh. When we started selling at the ABQ Downtown Growers' Market...we started getting requests. My Mom makes these little pincushions. So many of our out-of-town customers kept admiring and buying them. Then I finally overheard a convo. People thought they were little cactus. We kept making them...

In the off season, we started to get requests for cactus hats. And I finally decided to check out some cactus projects. On Pinterest. When did our little cactus, get so popular? So here are a few more things, I've come across since. 

I'm in LOVE with those little bags! And the ring holders. The sign is super cute too! And honestly, I'm not a HUGE fan of cactus...more on that later. But these are cute.

The party items, on here...made me laugh! But they are pretty cute. If cactus is your thing! I really like the pillow in the middle. Super cute! Even for an outdoor seating area.

This bag caught my eye. If I were to "rock" the cacti...this is how I'd do it. I don't draw well. But this doesn't look hard. At all!

And how many of you, remember fabric paint from the 90s? My then SIL, made us all bags and shirts one year. For Christmas. Something similar to this idea. But more in designs that we liked. My Mom is obsessed with owls...so she got an owl. My Mom still uses that bag. So Sandra, if you're reading this...Mom LOVES that bag!

We make a TON of baby items! A TON!!! And I thought this would be super cute. In fact, the last time we went to the fabric store, we saw a lot of cacti prints. My Mom already makes similar onesies. With little diaper covers. So this would be fun, to incorporate into our little stash! The little button, totally makes it for me!

Recently on TV, I saw a similar craft. These would be fun, in a smaller size. Don't you think? Maybe an 8X10. The pom pom flower makes this for me!

These little pincushions, are something we've been asked to make. For a customer...or 5! I think they are super cute! And different. From the regular pincushions that you see.

And these little rock cacti, made me laugh! All the way, to the craft store. To look for supplies. You'd be surprised, how many people like to buy rock art. I know! But there is a booth, that makes painted rocks. To resemble animals and people. Super cute. So I think these would be fun too!

This hat pattern, made it's way around Facebook. During the winter. And I never found the original pattern. So I made one up. And I sold a ton, of these hats! All sizes. Honestly, I want one for me. Maybe I'll make one by next winter. :) The little flower, was my fav!

These little cacti, are so adorable! Early last season, I was sent this pic. And started to try and figure out, how to make them. There were zero patterns around! But I just adore these. If you come by the Growers' Markets...chances are, I'll have a dozen! No two, are alike!

I was also sent this pic. And I want to tackle these gals too! They feel a little more whimsical. With their eyes and flowers. 

To me, these look a little more, like a real cactus. I bought about a dozen pots, to make them. I just need to sit and make them. :)

And just last week, I found this in my email inbox! A pillow. Can anyone tell what my next project is going to be? Super fun! I just want to add a little smile to her.

So here's the thing, I didn't realize how popular cactus had become. I don't know where I've been. I just hadn't realized it. Which is hilarious! Being that any store you go to, has them all over their home decor items.

When I was little my Mom and Grandpa would eat cactus. Nopales actually. Me? Heck no! They were slimy! And it seemed weird to me. To eat the plants, that my Grandma would scream at us...to stay away from.

And then there was that incident, when my cousin fell into the cactus. And I had to sit and pull out the needles. With a pair of tweezers. The tiny needles. As we hide from our Grandma. And kept making our third cousin, run back and forth to the house. For supplies. And to cover for us. I was the oldest. So I got the job with the tweezers. We were scared to death of our Grandma finding out, what had happened. Because she probably would have beat us. Not really. But we would have been in some serious trouble!

And does anyone recall, that time Mr. Sancho stepped in the cactus? And then, sorta fell over it. When we were playing a gig. And we spent what seemed like hours, pulling out the needles. From his traje...while still having to keep to our gig schedule. I had nightmares about Attacking Cactus!!!

So I'm not the biggest fan. But they are cute. And although, I pass them up at the store...I can see the appeal. I'd much rather buy a fern, than a cactus. But I can see how people like them. Especially, if you are not from the Southwest. The crafted ones, are much cuter...than the real cactus. A lot less prickly too! :)

Have you seen any Cactus Crafts? Are you interested in them? Would you like to purchase something, similar? Just wondering. I'm always trying to stay ahead of the curve. Even if sometimes, I fall way behind! Happy Tuesday!

XOXO,
Desiree

What's Up Wednesday #3

It's that time again. You know, What's Up Wednesday time! When I try and put some direction in my life. Joking! But really, these sort of posts, help me to stay a little organized. With my life. :)

Would you like to join in, on all the fun? It's super easy! Just answer some questions, and link up!

Now let's get started! If you are also doing a WUW, please link it. Or leave a comment with your link. I enjoy reading these.

 1. What We're Eating This Week:
Have you taken a look at this post? From Monday. I'm super excited about Friday's dinner. Good Friday Torta...is in my top 5 meals of the year! And while Garcia's has a pretty good one...nothing compares to my Momma's. Nothing!

 2. What I'm Reminiscing About:
Gosh, lots of things. But mostly loved ones who have passed away. March is such a tough month. So many of our loved ones, have gone to be with the Lord. During March. We are always celebrating them and their anniversaries!

 3. What I'm Loving:
2018 has been all about taking better care of myself. And I just can't get enough of these face masks! At least once a week, I'm using one. And I'm still totally in love with them.

 4. What We've Been Up To:
That would have to be, getting ready for the 2018 Growers' Market Season. I have been going to meetings, checking emails, buying supplies, working on items, and trying to decide what Markets we will be attending. So much stuff, that people don't see. Mostly we've been working on items, for the shop. And deciding on our display. :)

 5. What I'm Dreading:
The MVD! Hands down. I HATE going to that place. And we need to go for 2 things. Renew the registration for our car. And I need my Driver's License. Ugh! I'm already having anxiety over the entire situation. Maybe I can convince my Mom to get her license early too!

 6. What I'm Working On:
Organizing our garden. We weren't going to do one this year. But I find this picture on Facebook, and it got me thinking. My Mom also wants something to do, while I work. So I need to find some pallets. I already bought some seeds. And we'll probably go buy some plants on Friday. Any suggestions?

 7. What I'm Excited About:
The 2018 Growers' Market Season. Opening Day for one Market is in just over 2 weeks. The other is in May. I don't feel prepared. At all! But I'm super excited to get back to it! We're cutting back this year. And probably only doing 2 Markets. We'll see...

 8. What I'm Watching/Reading:
I went to watch I Can Only Imagine with my Mom yesterday. It was so good! And I would highly recommend it to you. It was so inspirational. One of those movies, that when you leave the theater...you are so happy and thankful. Also, I'd recommend MercyMe's music. It's incredible!

As far as TV, I've been loving new shows like 911. Which I'm so sad, had it's Season Finale last week. And I've been loving The Resident. This show could easily be my favorite show on TV! And an oldie but goody...Grey's Anatomy. When this show leaves TV, I will be so sad!!!

I've been trying to do more reading. As always, I'm reading the Bible. But I've also been digging into a box of books. That my friend sent me. Currently I'm reading this book. Someone was telling me that it's a movie. But I don't know...

 9. What I'm Listening To:
Lots of things honestly. When it comes to music, I have ADD. But I've had my Rory And Joey CD on replay. For the last month! It just seems so fitting. For this Season in my Life. And for the Easter Season. It makes me cry, feel good, and sing...all day long! Definitely something I'd recommend.

10. What I'm Wearing:
I've actually been dressing up more. And by that I mean not only jeans...but actual dresses. I know. For someone that lives in sweats, that is pretty amazing! And like every Spring, I'm swooning over Old Navy's dresses. Every Spring, they have a big sale. And I try and pick up a few dresses when they are $10. Along with a nicer dress, for Easter. This one is for $15. And calling my name! I'm not sure what color I like most...the green, yellow, or white. 

11. What I'm Doing This Weekend:
All things Easter! Tomorrow and Friday, we'll attend Mass in the evening. Friday I'll drive my Momma to Tome. We'll walk from the highway to the hill. Because there is no way, she can make it up the hill. I might go for the climb. Depending on how my Mom is feeling. On Sunday, we'll be at Easter Sunrise Mass. And we'll spend the afternoon at a Family BBQ. That I'm super excited about. :)

12. What I'm Looking Forward to Next Month:
I don't think I've said it enough...in this blog post. The opening of the Albuquerque Downtown Growers' Market! I really enjoy the Market in general. And then we've made all these friends there. My Momma really enjoys getting out too. Oh, and we make some money for our little foundation. ALWAYS a good time! If you are local, stop by and check it out. We'll be there twice a month...all season long! The ABQDGM is open on Saturdays from 8-12PM, at Robinson Park.

13. What Else Is New:
Well, I'm looking for a part-time job. Something near our home. Because my Momma is not supposed to be left alone. I'm thinking of one of the nearby stores. Retail isn't that bad. And pretty flexible. Which is what I need. With her health issues and doctors' appointments.

I was also asked to start teaching a Crochet Class. At a local Craft Store. Which could be a lot of fun. And I'm going to start teaching more classes at the DOH. Maybe the hospital too. My schedule is about to get real full!

Bonus Question: What's Your Favorite Easter Tradition:
Mine would definitely be Easter Sunrise Mass. It feels so good to start off the celebrations, at Church. I LOVE going to Church during the entire Holy Week. It reminds me so much, of my childhood. And going to Church with my Nanie. But there is something about Sunrise Mass. On Easter Sunday. Alleluia!

That's it for my WUW. I'm off to go take our car for some routine maintenance. And I need to go get my documents, to renew my Driver's License. Please wish me luck! Maybe say a few prayers for me. And perhaps, I might sneak in some crafting. I needed to make about 20 little crochet items...before Sunday. Happy Wednesday!

XOXO,
Desiree

Friday Favorites

Happy Friday! This has been a FULL week. I also have to admit...I haven't been the best at taking pictures. There is so much life to live. That sometimes, snapping a pic, is too much! So I may have stolen a few...from Facebook. :)

No matter what, I've enjoyed this week. Lots of family time. Lots of smiles, laughs, and celebrating. I don't think, you could ask for anything else! Let's get started with this week's Friday Favorites!

 1. September Girls' Night. We barely snuck this one in. But I'm so glad we did. I truly enjoy, spending time with my family. And a monthly Girls' Night? You can't go wrong with that!

We had a few new faces. And a few less. But it was a fun night. I'm so glad, my sister could make it. I don't think many, knew her before. And Jeannette, seemed to really enjoy herself.

It's just a fun night, to get together. Have fun. Play a few games. Eat. And laugh. A LOT! It's just a different environment, from our usual. No one has to worry about hungry or tired kiddos. Hosting a party. Or anything like that. It's just time for fun.

I'd been dropping hints on Facebook...for well over a year. Trying to get some of us together. A Recipe Club. Supper Club. Let's just Get Together Club. My friends and I, used to do this all the time! ALL. THE. TIME!!! Sometimes, it was nothing more than meeting at Starbucks. Mostly it was time for my girlfriends to get away from their hubbys and kiddos. And for me? I needed a break from the hospital.

So I was very glad, when my cousin organized all the shenanigans for us. We've met 3 months in a row. And each time has been a little different. Different faces come every time. It's just a nice night out. My only complaint this month...I lost my ID. And couldn't watch the Karaoke Shenanigans. Oh well...

 2. Yummy Burgers. On Friday Night. AKA Girls' Night. I got the yummiest burger. For anyone that knows me, knows that burgers have a soft spot in my heart. Also, I'm always a little skeptical, about trying a new restaurant. And who can screw up a burger?

Anyway, I got a guacamole burger. Two of my favorites...rolled into one. Bonus, it came with bacon. What? Ya, it was a nice little treat. And honestly, I'm sorta anxious to go again. You know, to get another. :)

From the group, they said the food was really good. My Mom got enchiladas. My sister got some sort of burrito. But my burger, I truly think it was the winner. My sister was still talking about it on Sunday.

 3. Saturday Morning Shenanigans. I LOVE Saturday mornings! We get to hang out with our Growers' Market family. And although the weather was overcast. With rain and thunder threatening. ALL. MORNING. LONG! I just enjoy being at the Market.

The little guy on the swing, is our Market Neighbor. The sweetest little guy! His momma made that swing. She make the most amazing wooden toys and cutting boards. And all the kiddos know, to come to this tree. To play on the swing.

My little buddy here, was the sunshine of our day. It sprinkled on and off all morning. Until the big storm hit around 10AM. This guy, just kept on swinging. Smiling away. Waving to me, from across the sidewalk. What am I going to do, when the Market ends?

 4. Smurf Birthday Party. After we left the Market early, on Saturday...we headed to JoAnns. I know! But we were in the area. And had about an hour to waste...before my cousins' Smurf Birthday party.

It was the cutest Birthday party! All the food was so yummy. Those cupcakes...yum! I wonder where they got them. The company was great. It was just a really nice way to spend our afternoon.

I got quite a few questions on Inst. And I don't really have any answers. My cousin planned this party, for her girls. And I'm not sure where she got her decorations. Or how she made a lot of the stuff. But it was super cute! Happy Birthday Amorae and Myla!

 5. Sunday Family Time. We had so much planned on Sunday. And we were exhausted. I think in the end, my Mom and I planned to go to church and breakfast with my sister. But our plans changed. We still went to church. And had a yummy breakfast with my sister. But we also went to the graveyard. And to my cousin's fundraiser.

Basically, I think my Mom just toughed it out. Because my Grandma was going to be there. And I know my Momma was hurting on Sunday. But it was so nice to see my Grandma. During the season, we are so busy. And unfortunately, visiting my Grandma...falls a little off of our radar.

But Sunday was a fun day. I got to chat with my cousins. And a good friend. Got to get lots of time, with her littles. Which is ALWAYS a bonus! And we got to support a good cause.

 6. Vet Time. After our weekend shenanigans, we went home. To our furry pals. Bathed them. And prepped them both, for a day at the vet. Ugh! It's so hard to send them away...

Belle had to have anesthesia. To clean her teeth. And Sweetheart was going for a Comprehensive Exam. If you have a dog, I'd totally recommend getting the Banfield plan. After the first visit, it pays for itself. 

What I like about them is, they assign you one vet. You know how you have a doctor? They get a vet. So all of your scheduled appointments, are with that vet. You get to know them. So does your dog. And they get to know you and your furry friend. 

I also enjoy, that they take care of everything! EVERYTHING!!! I set up my account, to have the payment taken out monthly. The staff schedules appointments. Sends me reminders. Calls before the appointment. To make sure we know what is going on. And if we have to prep our girls. After the appointment, they call for about 3 days. To check on your pet.

It is awesome. If you follow on Inst, you saw how excited our dogs were, to go to the vet. They LOVE it! We dropped them off at 7:30AM. By 9AM, they called to let me know Sweetheart had an ear infection. And Belle was recovering. We picked them up by 2PM. 

 7. Recovery Time. Tuesday was all about recovery. In our house. Monday evening was full of fun. Sweetheart wouldn't take an oral med at the vet. So I had to give it to her. There may have been 5 treats involved...but she finally took it!

Belle's little leg, was bleeding. So they tied it a little tighter. And told me to take off the bandage, before bed. She was not allowing it. It was like her badge of courage. And she was so gas-y all night long! Pretty miserable. Poor babe. We cuddled the night away.

So Tuesday morning, I was trying to get her band aid off. She was playing dead. And Sweetheart wouldn't leave my Mom's side. I think we spend the entire morning, working on crafts. Right there...on the couch. With these two connected to us!

 8. Tuesday Night Dinner. Because we were swamped on Tuesday. Trying to catch up on orders...I decided to take my Mom out to dinner. At Golden Pride. My Mom LOVES their fried chicken. The ribs are ALWAYS amazing!

It had been a rough day at home. I was trying to finish an order, make some stuff for our stash, and work on a birthday present. My Mom was also working on another order. And our 2 fur babes, wouldn't leave our laps.

So when we left the house, a little on the rough side, we figured we wouldn't see a soul! You know, that we knew. Halfway through our yummy meal, our friend from church walks in. What was she thinking, when we saw us? Oh well...dinner was amazing!

 9. Finished Orders. My Mom finished this order, late Tuesday night. And I was getting a little worried, when I couldn't get in touch with the lady. When we got to the Market on Wednesday, I called a few more times. Then figured...oh well!

About 10AM, she came running through the grass. So excited to see her dolls! That ALWAYS puts a smile on my face! To see someone so happy, to get their orders. And to see them, so happy!

The lady was so excited! So was my Mom. She put in quite a few hours. Working on these 3 dolls. And we also got a few more orders, from the same lady. Win-win-win!

10. Sweetheart Snuggles. when we got home Wednesday, our dogs were waiting for us. We'd left the house around 6AM. And didn't return until almost 6PM. It was a looong day! Growers' Market, lunch, and wondering around Hobby Lobby. You know...a typical Wednesday.

But when we walked through the door, this sweet face was ready for cuddles. That doesn't come often. So while my Mom was watching the news and Belle was exploring the yard...we snuggled.

This girl can be so loving. And shows such promise. At times. So you have to enjoy it, while it lasts. I really do love her. And I know, it's not her fault. You know, that she has issues. Just know, when you rescue a pup...they have a history. And you just have to love them, through all their problems.

11. My Shotgun Rider. Thursday morning, was s super gloomy day! We all slept in late. And I wasn't in the mood, to cook. I know. What is wrong with the world? So I took Belle on a "Bye-bye."

She just LOVES being in the car. And she was enjoying her new clothes. Not to mention, she was finally feeling better. We played a little Bruno Mars, cruised over the bridge, and picked up breakfast and coffee for my Momma.

Total bonus...was the gift card that I used. Am I the only one that enjoys a good giftcard? Breakfast on my friends!

12. Thursday Night Birthday Parties. My little cousin turned 2 this week. And her birthday party was last night. I mean, how cute is she! I might not have been able to finish her birthday present in time. But I could give up Grey's Anatomy for the night.

She really is the cutest thing. And I do enjoy a birthday party. The food is always delish! And you get to have sweets. A total bonus, is that it is on Thursday evening. You know, our weekends are already crazy! So to spread out the parties...is always a win! Happy Birthday Olivia!

Let's not forget the good chats. You know, when you see people...that you haven't seen in forever! I always enjoy catching up with friends and family. Grey's will just have to wait until today. Total bonus...I was home by 8Pm. In my PJs, with a full belly!

13. Party Decorations. Shall we chat about decorations? My cousin always has the cutest decorations! Her parties are so cute. I mean, did you see Olivia's cute outfit? Yeah, I about died when I saw the pics on Facebook.

But her party, just had me thinking. About our upcoming Tea Party Fundraiser. T minus 4 months. I LOVED the look of her decorations. And it's the direction I was already leaning in.

But the sweet treats...they were so yummy! I wonder where she got her cookies, cupcakes, and cake? Yum! And the Rise Krispie treats, weren't too sweet. LOVED that! So much inspiration. I might have also said...I wanted a birthday party this year. :)

14. Doggie Birthday Parties. Yup, you read that right. Miss Belle is turning 2...on Saturday. Which means, we must party! I always think, I should invite people. You know, I go to a million kids' parties. Why not? Include a little note...with her favorite food, treats, and doggie size. 

But I haven't been brave enough. And I wanted something simple. So late last night, I went to Wal-Mart. I was sad, not to really find a big selection of items. I was looking forward to a Barn Animal Party. But they didn't have the supplies. Oh well...

I think Belle will just enjoy the food, treats, and toys. What else can a dog ask for? Bonus...the cupcakes go with her outfit. Yes, you read that right! My dog has a birthday outfit. And a hat! :)

15. Pray For Las Vegas. Sunday Night, my heart sank. Just to hear all the sad news. I've traveled there so much! Performing and such. It just killed my heart. Please keep all of those innocent people in your prayers. It's going to be a long recovery. Pray for the lives lost. And the ones, that will have to carry this night...with them forever.

Folks, I've got to get going. So much to do today. Baking, party planning, wrapping presents, finishing presents, and getting ready for 2 Markets this weekend. I hope you had a GREAT week. And an even better weekend! Happy Friday!

XOXO,
Desiree

Friday Favorites

Happy Friday! It's been such a busy week. I'm so exhausted. But I know, we only have a month left...of all this craziness! I can make it. Until then, I'm going to enjoy my mid afternoon...little naps.

I just can't get over the fact, that this is the last Friday of the month. Where did September go? I feel like, Summer just started. And you know what...Fall is halfway over! So let's get started with this week's Friday Favorites.

 1. Flu Shots. They are not my favorite. And how much do you want to bet...I'll still get the flu. But with my Momma's health issues...it's a necessary. Much like when my Dad was sick.

So Friday I took my Mom to the dentist. And while I wanted to have my teeth cleaned too, I needed to be with my Momma. So she had her teeth looked at. We spent a couple of hours there. And on the way out...they got me!

The guy was a student from UNM. And was very gentle. But my arm is still sore. And I think it will be for a few days. On a side note...I've been feeling a little under the weather all week. But a gal has to do, what a gal has to do! Side note, Adam you put my bandaid on...upside down!

 2. Beautiful Sunsets. I had to go run a couple of errands Friday evening. My Momma was a little tired from the early morning. She's not really used to getting up, before 9 or 10AM. 

So when I left the house, it was drizzling a bit. And there was this beautiful sunset. This picture, doesn't even begin to show the beauty in the sky. Gosh, I LOVE southwestern skies!

I've traveled so much in my life. For work and training. I've seen so many sunrises and sunsets. But nothing at all, compares to out our New Mexico skies!

 3. Mason Jar Flowers. On Saturday, we got the bad news. Our Growers' Market neighbors were calling it quits. For the season. Saturday was their last day. I know...we only have about 6 weeks left. But still, I'm going to miss Tita and her momma!

Their flowers are ALWAYS a bright spot, in our Saturday mornings! And from time to time, I've bought arrangements. Gosh, I just adore them! I told her, if I ever get married or have a Baby Shower...she's doing the flowers!

I'm going to miss her. Just like we miss the ladies of What the Fudge. You get to be a family. I mean, we are around each other from April to November. But there is a 95% chance, I'm going to use Mason Jar Flowers and What the Fudge in our next fundraiser. I'm just so happy, that we met these new friends.

 4. Coffee Runs. So on Sunday we decided to meet some other Growers' Market friends. Framily is what I call them. But honestly, they've become our family. My Mom and I were going to go have a breakfast burrito. And we stopped by Starbucks on the way. To use up some of those $75 worth of gift cards. Neither of us were impressed with our selections that day. Back to iced tea and cake pops for both of us. Those fancy drinks...just don't do it!

But our friends had done a catering job the night before. And were EXHAUSTED!!! So I offered to go grab some coffee. I went to McDonald's. Dang, the line was forever! But when I got back everyone seemed happy! My Mom and I stayed for the entire market. Just to help out. Really, if we could have, we would have sent them home for a nap.

Even if I don't like to drink coffee, darn I like to smell it! I LOVED how the car held on to the aroma for about 2 days. And because it was McDonald's coffee, I thought of my Dad. Most of all, I enjoyed hanging out with our friends. :)

 5. Fall Clothes. I have been watching the weather...like my life depends on it. For the last 2 weeks. In anticipation, of Fall like weather. Finally, Sunday showed some promise.

And I dug it all out! Sweaters, scarves, and boots. I Just adore a big 'ol sweater. One that is soft and snuggly. My Mom originally bought this for my sister. And then realized it was a little too small. When we went to exchange it last year...I somehow ended up with it. I'm not complaining!

From now on, I can tell you one thing. Every single day, I'll be searching out the perfect scarf. You know, for my outfit. I LOVE Scarf Season! It's just the best time of year!

 6. Homemade Waffles. So on Monday, I decided to make waffles. I've been thinking about waffles for weeks now! The thing is, I don't like to eat them, when we go out. They're never crisp enough. And lack flavor.

So I dug out the waffle iron, and got busy. By the time my Mom and the dogs woke up, I had a stack of waffles. And some bacon. I also cut up some fruit. It was so delicious.

And our dogs got the first 2 waffles. A lot like pancakes, those first 2 aren't the best. So it's their treat for the week. My Mom was really excited too. I'm thinking blueberry waffles will be next. I just bought a HUGE container of blueberries.

 7. Cooking Bug. It must be the cooler temps. Or even Fall. But I've got that cooking bug. I've wanted to cook and bake all week! On Monday I made chicken fajitas. They were so yummy! Even if I ate by myself.

Is anyone else like that? I feel like maybe I care a bit more in the cooler months. I want to be cooking, Caring more about my clothes, hair, and makeup. It's like in the Summer, it's just too hot. And uncomfortable. You just don't care.

But when the cooler temps roll in, I'm ready to go again. And I'm ready to feed everyone and anyone. Seriously! I've got a HUGE list of things I want to try out. And not just for us. But for our dogs...

 8. Hibiscus. My LOVE of jamaica or hibiscus started when I was a freshmen in college. We will blame that on my violin teacher. Also on my friend Sancho. Both would bring me Jamaica tea. At my violin lessons, Mariachi rehearsals, anytime we'd see each other.

I don't know where it had been all my life. Or how, it took until college for me to find this tea. Before I knew it, I was looking for anything Jamaica. Ice cream, Aguas Frescas, candy...anything!

Then my friend Tino started making these Aguas Frescas. Watermelon Hibiscus. You need help selling? And I get one of those. No problem! I turned into a real addict. It was even better than the tea, that I had grown to love. This week, while we were helping him at an event...he made an Agua Fresca that was just Jamaica. It was love at first taste! I wonder if I can get him to make me, an entire jug, just for myself. :)

 9. Homemade Cinnamon Rolls. So I promised our friends cinnamon rolls. A few weeks ago. Maybe a couple of months ago. And all sorts of stuff has happened. The yeast I bought...wasn't active. I tried proofing it at least 5 times. Then I just didn't have time. But the worst part, is when I lost my Grandma's recipe.

Ugh! So I asked my cousin. And my Auntie. And I searched for it. No luck. So I started researching recipes. I thought about my Grandma's recipe. And eventually came up with my own recipe. It made 4 dozen? With the crispy end pieces. Half the rolls had pecans...the other half were the traditional kind.

So yummy! There are a few changes I'm going to make to this recipe. Then I'll try it again. But I really liked the recipe. The dough was AMAZING to work with! It would make amazing LARGE cinnamon rolls. I'm going to try that next time. Bonus, the dough wasn't yeast-y tasting. Do you know what I mean? I HATE when you can really taste the yeast.

The one thing that I was not completely happy with, was the icing. I tripled it, and still found that it wasn't quite enough. I want to try a cream cheese icing next time. Something not so sweet.

And then, I've been dreaming of Fall like flavors. Pumpkin, pecans, sweet potatoes. Who knows, what I'm going to come up with. But I love to bake for other people. And everyone loves a good cinnamon roll. I tell you, if I ever get married...my husband is going to weigh so much. Because I LOVE to cook!

10. Green Chili Stew. Our friend offered to make us green chili stew. On Tuesday we saw Landis. And he wasn't feeling very well. But he wanted to cook for us. So he told us, we'd have breakfast on Wednesday. Didn't I tell you, we all become family.

On Wednesday, the weather was horrible! Raining, windy, cold as heck! So I didn't expect Landis to really show up. I had warm cinnamon rolls to hand out. And not many vendors to hand them out to.

We stood around, debating if we were going to be staying. My Mom sat in the car. About 5 of us, stood outside. Looking at the sky. Eating. And debating. Finally we decided to set up the farmers. 

I figured we'd just head home. My Mom and I. After we set up our friends. Then my Mom came to tell us, Landis was on his way. With stew. I LOVE green chili stew! So we stayed. And I'm glad we did. 

We got a yummy breakfast. It wasn't chili hot. But had a nice flavor. We ended up taking the leftovers home. And snacking on it, for the last few days. We also managed to help our friends, sell a bit of their produce. Being a farmer, has to be tough!

11. Finding Fabric. Buying fabric should be an art...all by itself! We've been hunting down that skull fabric, for well over a month! Our friend ordered an apron, with this fabric. He saw the ladies' apron that we had. But darn, it is hard to find this fabric! I cannot even begin to tell you, just how many stores we've been to. 

When I was talking to his daughter, she mentioned liking owls and peacocks. So when we stumbled on the skulls, I started digging. My Mom and I were half frozen from being outside at the Growers' Market. But this was a good find! Now to make the aprons. 

On another note...still skull related...I found some skull leggings. I've been hunting for them. For at least 2 weeks. We found my Mom a pair. But not me. Until Wednesday morning. I'm so excited!

12. Rain Puddles. It rained All. Day. Long. WEDNESDAY! When we got home, I took a nap. My sleep has been so off lately. I'm up all night. And crash hard, about noon. Sometimes I make it to 2PM. Then I sleep for 6 or 8 hours.

It's a horrible cycle. Rainy and overcast days don't help either. I was so exhausted on Wednesday. The weather just helped my napping. So did puppy cuddles. :)

But it rained and rained and rained. This was the street Thursday morning. We were still getting sprinkles. But the county came out to pump the water. Do you see the size of that truck? They took 6 truck loads of water...and it looked like they hadn't taken a gallon! Ugh!

But that is our situation. We desperately need the water. But sometimes, it's a little much. Like this week. And it doesn't seem to be letting up. It looks like we're about to get rained on...at the Downtown Growers' Market. I just hope it's not too much.

I also hope, they come and pump some more water. Our yard is mostly grass and sand. So we don't have the HUGE puddles. But the street is another story. And the way some people drive...

We have a crazy busy weekend. I'm not sure how we're going to fit it all in. But we'll try. Girls' Night, Growers' Markets, birthday parties, get togethers, and fundraisers. That's part of being from a Big 'Ol Family. But it is always a lot of fun.

Most of all, I'm anxious to see my sister. We've been so busy lately, that we haven't been able to meet up. And soon, she is headed to the East Coast. So you know, we need to find some time. Hope you had a good week. Happy Friday!

XOXO,

Desiree