What Have I Been Up To?

Hey Guys! Thought I'd do a little..."What We've Been Up To." Life is always a bit crazy. But lately, we've been running at 100MPH. Here goes...

 1. In case you missed it, we announced our "Gifting" for the year...via our Love for Blue Foundation. So proud of this accomplishment! We gifted $3500 to ABQ Youth. And countless cards, notes, and little gifts via Love Caregivers.

 2. We are 100% into the Growers' Markets. Wow! We are so busy! You can see our schedule here. It's different from last year. This year, the arts and craft vendors, rotate weekends. And spots. So I make sure to put all the info, on our Facebook page.

This weekend we'll be at the ABQ Downtown Growers' Market. Spot #91. And the ABQ Rail Yards Market. Spot #22. That's our regular spot. All season long! Hope to see you there!

 3. We started a new Market this week. The Wednesday Lunch Market. It's at Civic Plaza, from 11AM-2PM. Yesterday was Opening Day. We had a lot of fun. It got hot. And for the last hour, all I wanted to do...was jump in the Splash Pad area. With all the kids.

I can't really tell you, when we'll be there. They let us know on Tuesday night...doesn't give much notice. But it's a fun Market! There are a few farmers, some food, lots of crafts, free yoga, some music, the Splash Pad is open, and you can come say Hi!

 4. I started a new blog. After a frustrating celebration. Were the manager, was so racist. And it took everything inside me, to not throw a Toddler Tantrum. No lie! So I started a blog.

If you've followed me, for a number of years...you may remember another food/restaurant blog that I had. It was super successful. I stayed anonymous. And after 5 years, I sold it. That one also started, after a bad experience. When we went to eat at Garcia's. Words are powerful!

Truth be told, I've probably spent more time eating out, in my lifetime...than any other person. I'm not here to bash people/restaurants. But for real...have some respect for your customers!

 5. I'm still looking for a job. Something I was counting on, just didn't pan out. But I'm not letting that get me down. Just got to figure something out.

I need to be able to work a flexible schedule, be somewhat close to home, or only work events. Maybe part-time? I was talking to a friend that runs a Food Truck. And perhaps, during the larger events...I can go help her. Take the orders, keep things stocked, help her setup and tear down.

In case you don't know my situation, I can't go back to work full time. I have to take care of my Momma. Actually, I'm not supposed to leave her alone. But sometimes, I need to. So I need to have the flexibility to continue caring for her. And if she's having a bad week, I need to be able to stay home with her.

 6. I'm working...sorta...with a Farmer Friend. I still do a lot of work with the DOH. Lots to do with their Meal Planning/Cooking Classes. And they needed a farmer. To purchase food from, take kiddos to their farm, and have them come into the office to sell their products.

Well, I wasn't sure who to ask. When I got the request from my boss. But there is a farmer, that lives down the road. I met him at the Market. And he is super sweet. He knows I need some work. And we kinda got into this venture together.

I'm not selling at his Market stand, or working on his farm. But we're working on this venture together. What's that saying..."Scratch my back, and I'll scratch yours." Ya, we are helping each other out.

I know there are other people that I could have turned to. But let's be real. They totally screwed me over. So what's that other saying? "Sleep with one eye open." I'm not that mean. But really? Could you have done me wrong...any worse?

So there you go. I'll be doing weekly field trips to a farm, writing recipes, teaching some classes at the DOH...and let's be real. Probably helping a little at the Market Stand. On my off weeks. Because I need some dinero. Thank You friend! Oh, I'm also going to help my friend get his social media going, for his farm. He has accounts set up. But doesn't really use them. Time to start taking pics of plants, veggies, and anything farm related!

 7. I've been working really hard on our fundraisers. Our Annual Fun Run/Car Show is indefinitely postponed. Our first date was moved, after my Nanie's passing. I just felt, that we needed to pay some respect. Our next date, conflicts with something else. So I'm thinking September. I'll keep you updated.

The Tea Party though...I'm in full swing! August can't come soon enough. We've got a bunch of teapots. I've got a menu planned. Some crafts too. I'm just waiting to 100% secure the location. I'm thinking it will be too hot, to be outside. So I've been talking with a local Community Center.

So here are some of the details. The Tea Party is open to all ages! Grannys, Mommas, Little Girls. We're almost positive, that we are going to charge $25 for adults. And $10 for girls 10 and under. We are encouraging dressing up. I'm thinking of hosting a tea cup exchange. We we'll have our crafts for sale. As well as some affordable jewelry. And perhaps...some tea related items.

And for our Dinner and Dance...planning is also well on it's way. I was hoping to use a friend to cater. But it's looking more and more, like we're going to do the cooking. Because, Hello! This is a fundraiser. I can't pay $20 a plate. And only charge $25. It just doesn't make sense.

I've got the entertainment secure. And I'm still waiting to decide on which location. There are 2, that I have in mind. I've talked to them, drawn up a contract, and done some research. I just need to pull the trigger. Oh, and in case you missed it...this fundraiser will be in October.

To be honest, I'm a little overwhelmed. It's a TON of work. And I'm pretty much, the entire workforce. Ideally, we didn't want all the events so close together. But, it is what it is. Life happened, dates got moved, and here we are.

For 2019, and forward...I hope to have this schedule. The Fun Run Fundraiser/Car Show at the end of April. Our Tea Party at the beginning of August. And our Dinner and Dance...in October. That's our goal!

 8. I'm still waiting on my Driver's License. I went and renewed mine, over a month ago. I still haven't gotten it, in the mail. And I still have 2 weeks, before I can file a complaint. Ugh! That is also the reason, I can't go apply for work. They won't take my paper version...

Because I tried. And my State Work ID, won't cut it. Argh! I just need a job. And eventually, my Driver's License. Does anyone know of any jobs? Watching kids, cooking, whatever...

 9. I'm trying to convince my Mom, to go on vacay. With her sisters. But she feels guilty. Why? Because I've been wanting to go to Disney. And she would be going. I'm trying so hard, to get her to go. I think it would be good for her. Besides, they invited her!

I think my Mom feels guilty, because I'm staying behind. We had already asked my sister to watch our dogs. We were thinking, of going on a Road Trip. And she said yes. But this is different. So I told my Mom, I'd stay home. She can go have some fun. Lay on the beach, spend time with her sisters, and spend a day at Disney.

Because honestly, I've been worried about my Mom. She is struggling. Health wise. And I'm not sure, what's going on. I don't know if it's physical. Or if she's feeling down. Or what is going on. But I just want her to go have some fun!

To be 100% truthful, I am a bit jelly. You know, I was so used to travelling. For work. Other than work, I didn't do too much on these trips. But it was fun, to just go somewhere. Get out of town. See something different.

Oh, and I've been dying to go to Disney. For probably 2 years. I'm a BIG kid at heart! Let's just get that straight. But what can a girl do? I was telling one of my friends. Who happens to be a musician in Disney World. What was his answer? Pack up the dogs, and fly to Orlando. While my Mom is going to be gone for 10 days...he wants me to go hangout in Florida. Hit Disney, go fishing in the Atlantic, and just chill. It sounds like a dream...

10. I started organizing a Crochet Class. I was doing them last year. And the interest dwindled away. But apparently, people want to do it again. I've had a TON of interest. Especially at the Growers' Markets.

This time, I'll be charging. I've realized, my time is worth something too. I was asked to do a class, at a local craft store. The owner is looking to get more traffic into her store. She won't be charging me, until January. It's a pretty good deal. And whatever I charge, will be 100% mine.

I'm thinking $20 a person. $30 if you want me to get your supplies. I think that should be good. Pays for my time. Still makes it affordable, for my potential students. Because I was noticing at JoAnn's and Hobby Lobby, the classes go on sale for $50! Also, I'm still thinking of doing something at the Library again. Maybe the same price. Maybe a little less. Not sure. But I will definitely keep everyone up-to-date.

11.  I started a new venture. I'll be incorporating it into our fundraisers. The hint...$5. I think most people will get it. I can't sell it at the Growers' Markets. Because I didn't make it. But you know, it will help!

12. Anyone want hang out? Do a little Recipe Exchange? Or Dinner Club sort of thing. No lie! Been putting a little something together. I used to do these all the time. When I lived alone. I miss it! So I'm started it all over again. :)

Let me know if you are interested. We can meet once a month. Each person can make a dish. And we can get together to eat. You know, we'd have a theme or something. Or maybe have one person in charge of the meal each month. It really is a fun thing. And is usually about 8-10 people. So it's not too crazy!

I think that's it. For the moment. I mean, we are doing a ton more. But I'm not sure on a lot of the details. And if I can share them yet. So we are going to leave it here. Happy Thursday!

XOXO,
Desiree

Friday Favorites #11

This has been a tough week. Like I wanted to dig a big 'ol hole...and hide in it. Put a rock on top...and forget that I was even there. But I made it. Somehow. And I'm looking forward to this coming week, to be a bit more relaxing. Not so adventurous. Maybe a bit more peaceful. Let's get started with this week's Friday Favorites....

Excuse the bags under my eyes. I have not been sleeping well. For at least 2 weeks now. But it's March. We're over half over with the month. I still can't believe that! But over on our Love For Blue Instagram page, we're rocking the blue! All month. If you'd like to join in posting your blue pictures, on you favorite social media...please tag them with #LoveForBlue #BlueForBlue and #BlueDays.

In case you are new around here, my Dad battled colon cancer. And sadly, lost his battle...nearly 3 years ago. I still can't believe he is gone. But we have a 3 year old foundation that my Dad started, shortly before his death. It's a way to remember him. And continue his work.

Last week, my Nanie (Grandma) became an angel. On Friday, we celebrated her life...with a viewing. Gosh, I'm going to miss this beautiful lady. All her stories. Her wisdom. And her CRAZY jokes!

After my Nanie's viewing, we had a few errands to run. Before her services the next day. After picking up some last minute things, we stopped for a late dinner. At Panda Express. We always get the Big Plate. And a side of fried rice. My Mom and I share it all! It was yummy. Even if I had to stay clear of the beef. Do you give up meat on Fridays too?

So on Friday afternoon, I started this doll. I had dreamt of it, the night before. Pretty much, in one afternoon, I had all the parts made. And Friday night, I stood up, to finish her. Basically, sew her together. And put on her hair.

Now I've made many dolls. In case you are interested, you can find some of my work on our Craft Blog and on our Instagram page. Anyway, it usually takes awhile. Like I spend a few hours putting on the hair. Making my dolls, turn into fun little people. But this doll was so easy to make! My Nanie always told me, if it was meant to be, it will be. 

I couldn't sleep really well on Friday night. So after my Mom went to bed, I finished up this doll. And I kept thinking of my Nanie. I decided to place it in her casket. It just seemed appropriate. Being that she taught me how to crochet. And she always loved the toys I made. So I sent it with her. Along with a note. I just feel, like you should send your loved ones away...with a little something special.

Something I may not have mentioned is...my grandparents wanted their granddaughters to be their pallbearers. What an honor. To get to carry our grandparents to their final resting place. 

And while this was not necessarily a favorite thing of mine. It was truly an honor. It's been just over 4 years, since my Tatie (Grandpa) past on. And on Saturday, we laid my sweet Nanie to rest.

The women in our family, are such strong people. We owe it all, to our grandparents. Yes, we all have parents. But our grandparents instilled wise lessons, manners, strength, faith, and so much more...in us. They wanted us to be strong women. And boy, am I happy to be included in this bunch of women! In case you are wondering, my big littlest sis, is the 4th from the left. :)

It's so hard to admit, that we don't see each other much. But on this day, my Mom, her brothers, and sisters got to be close. And they were able to hold on to each other, on a very tough day. And just in case you were wondering about all the red...it was my Nanie's favorite color! We don't usually wear red to funerals.

It's crazy how life continues to move forward. Whether or not, you are ready for it. We got a bag, with a few things we had given my Nanie. And this picture was in it. I can still remember taking this picture. I was in college. And had come home, for this special occasion.

We actually took a large family picture. Which I never got! The photography shop, never gave us our print. What can you do? But each one of my grandparent's kids, with their family, also got to take some pictures. We did one with just us grandkids too. Awesome memories!

But this picture here, I gave it to my Nanie, right after my Tatie died. And with all her moves, she always took it with her. I was getting ready for Church on Sunday morning. I just had to stop and look at it. I can't believe 3 out of the 5 of us, are now angels...

After Church we headed home, for breakfast. Originally, we had been scheduled to sell at Church. For a Craft Sale. But with everything going on, we took the day off. And made it a pretty lazy day.

That included leftovers. My cousins, on the other side of my family, generously did all the cooking for my Nanie's funeral. And they setup and cleaned up the entire reception for us. They are such a blessing. I've always looked at them...as the sisters and brother, that God intended for me. :) Anyone remember the entire family, waiting with me for the bus? That stopped in front of the house.

Anyway, they are amazing cooks! And we ended up taking a bit of food home. So Sunday morning, my Mom fried up a couple of eggs. Because we all know, I can't make a fried egg. And we had the yummiest red enchiladas! So cheesy. Just like I like them!

If you follow me on Insta, then you have probably seen this product. On Sunday night's I've been trying to do a #SelfCareSunday. Basically, I take time for me. I've managed to do this, every Sunday in 2018. Except last week. When we were with my Nanie.

But this has to be my favorite mask. It's a sheet mask. And it's so relaxing to take a long bath. Then lay down, with this on my face. Catching up, with my favorite YouTubers.

In case you are interested, I get these at Walmart. I want to say that they are $2-3 each. It's basically a sheet, about the thickness of a baby wipe. And it is soaked in the most moisturizing liquid. I have a whole basket of masks. That a friend sent me. But this one, is my favorite.

Another disease, that we like to highlight for our foundation is Epilepsy. My Dad had epilepsy, for over 60 years! He was very embarrassed of this disease. Something that he had almost no control over.

Honestly, he did a pretty good job, controlling it. My Dad went to the doctor once a month. Every month of my life. To have his medication levels checked. He took his medication, twice a day. Every single day. Medicine that helped control his seizures.

Since I was little, I learned how to take care of my Dad. He taught me, when I was about 5 years old...how to put the car into neutral. Just in case. I learned real quick, what to do...when my Dad had a seizure. Call my Mom or Grandma. Lay him on his side. Hold his head. And as I got older, I could care for my Dad, by myself.

It was a tough disease. My Dad would joke with me..."It took my teeth. At times, it takes my dignity. But it will never keep me down."

My Dad lived a pretty normal life. He would have an "episode" about once a year. Two seizures in a day. One in the morning. One in the late afternoon/evening. In the last few years of his life...the seizures changed a bit. But it was more due, to his cancer. Than the epilepsy itself.

Every Monday, we wear purple for epilepsy. It was a disease, that my Dad learned how to live with. We, as his family, learned to live with it too. It wasn't a death sentence. You can join us in wearing purple too. Just tag your pics with #LoveForBlue #PurpleMondays #EpilepsyAwareness

I want people to know, you shouldn't be ashamed, if you have seizures. My Dad was lucky. His disease was pretty well managed. He was able to drive. Medication kept him pretty healthy. Life was pretty normal.

But I know, many people have a hard time. Epilepsy and seizures have such a huge range. In our family, we have a few family members...who battle this disease. Every case is different. Every person, has a different treatment. But they all, live a pretty normal life.

Earlier this week, Sweetheart and I had to run to the store real quick. And we picked up a pizza, for dinner. While sitting at a light, I was just so amazed with the sky!

It just amazes me, how life keeps on. With or without you, the sun still rises and sets. The birds chirp. People still buzz around. 

And in that moment, I had to just stop. And breathe. How glorious is this earth, that we live on. Some weeks, just feel so tough. And impossible. Then God sends you a message, in a beautiful sunset. To remind you, he's on your side!

Remember how I mentioned, struggling with sleep lately? Well, that lead to me finding a new TV show to watch. The Animal Planet's The Zoo. I got so hooked on Tuesday night, that I watched until 4AM Wednesday morning!

It all started with an episode about a flamingo. Who had to have surgery on it's leg! Flamingos are my favorite! So I watched a handful of episodes. And was thoroughly sad, when I couldn't find another episode to watch.

I just know, my Mom is going to be hooked too! It's a behind-the-scenes view, of the Bronx Zoo. Super interesting. I'll admit it here...I cried when an animal died. I think it would be a great show, for all ages! You get to see how the animals are cared for, trained, and what it takes, to really make the Zoo run.

Like I said, it has been a tough week. With tough relationships. And circumstances. When you really begin, to realize...just how strong you are. How each one of those rocks people throw your way, can be something positive too. This quotes sums all of that up, for me. Turn the negatives, into positives.

Wednesday we had another funeral to go to. What a week! But again, it was a good excuse to spend time with family. It really does make me sad, that it takes this kind of event, to bring us together.

But it allowed my Mom and I, to spend time with family. Family we don't see often. Friends that have turned into family. And it made the weight of all these losses, feel a little more bearable. Nothing like laughter, to make that happen!

But in this picture, post funeral, I really wanted to share my jewelry. I owe my love of Native American jewelry to my Nanie. And while I have some really nice pieces, this set just made me smile. My Mom gave it to me for Christmas. And I just love it!

I almost died, while driving home. I realized one earring was missing. And while I was on a race to make it home...I needed the restroom...my heart stopped. I mean, there were countless places in the cemetery where it could have been. We had been to two cemeteries that day! Or at the reception hall. Who knows where?

When we got home, I found it. In the seat of the car. Thank God! I know this set will be on a regular rotation, in my wardrobe. But I need to get some earring backs, before I wear it again. I don't want to lose an earring.

I've also been trying to decorate for every holiday. We have the decorations. I just have been unmotivated. So for New Year's it was one of those things, I put on my list for 2018.

I'm not back to my normal Holiday Spirit. But I'm trying. This shelf in our living room, I think of it as my area to rotate decor. Sorta like someone's mantel. I did a little decorating earlier this week. Added some lights, a sign, and some gold touches.

I also managed to decorate our dining room table. Change out all the linens. Added our St. Patty's day kitchen towels. The other places I added some green touches, are to a buffet in our living room, our coffee table, and my bathroom counter. Nothing too crazy. Just some green vases, pretty spring flowers, and a couple of gold accessories.

The Easter decor, is waiting. Some lambs, crosses, and fun bunnies. I'll probably change that out, on Sunday. The holidays are all jammed together this year. But I'm trying. 

Not long ago, our house would have looked like Hobby Lobby, Hallmark, and Gordman's had all exploded on it. But over the last 2 or 3 years...I just sorta lost that spark. I'm calling this a success.

Lastly, I have this quote. I talked to a friend late last week. A long time, family friend. Really I can almost call her a second mom. And she was helping me, to put things into perspective. 

We don't have to pull people along with us. In our lives. We don't need the negativity or the drama. We need to focus on what's important. Who is important. And why all these things are important.

I think when a family suffers a loss, it makes you rethink so much. Relationships. The daily. What you really want in your life. And who you want. You are not obligated, to tug everyone along...on your journey. And sometimes, it's so important to make those breaks.

Just make a quick, clean break. It hurts less. Eventually, if those people were meant to be in your life, they'll find their way back. If not, you'll find new people, to fill that space. 

Life is full of unpleasant things, experiences, and people. But you shouldn't sit and focus on that. You should focus on the positive. As much as we want all of our family, in our lives, sometimes it's not what is best for us.

That's it...for this week! It's been a tough one. Physically, emotionally, and spiritually draining. I look forward to a much calmer week. We have a fun birthday party tomorrow afternoon. And I'm excited for that! For once, the presents are made, bought, and wrapped up!

I'm also excited to do some "Sweet Making," for our Church Family today. I have some St. Patty's day desserts in mind. And I know, our Fish Dinner will be fun! I just love, hanging out at Church! See you next week!

XOXO,

Desiree

Friday Favorites

Happy Friday! I'm extra excited today. Because it's officially Fall! Oh how I love Fall! I bet you've been reading that a lot lately. Spring is my favorite season. But Fall...y'all I love it! I love to cook, bake, and decorate...all for Fall!

Anyway, back to today's post. I still can't believe it's Friday. It's been such a looong week! And I'm so exhausted! We have an early start to our day...so I better get going on this!

If you play along, please leave your link. I love to read everyone's posts. Don't you like to look into everyone's favorites too?

 1. Farm Animals. Last Friday, I took my Mom to the State Fair. We'd been the Sunday before. But this was more well planned. And at a much more leisurely pace. First up, was going to look at the animals. My Mom's favorite part of the State Fair.

We went to the barn. And got to see all kinds of cute animals. There were no lines. And hardly any people. But there were tons of kids, from the FFA. To show off all the cute animals. You should have seen the baby sheep! They were 2 weeks old!

But the ram always has a soft place, in our hearts. When I was about 13, my nephew brought a ram to us. It was his. But he didn't have a place for him. So we watched the Ram. For over a year? And got so attached. Now every time we see a ram...we think of Ramsy!

 2. Playing Like Kids. When we left the barn, we saw some kiddos eating popsicles. And my Momma wanted to go visit the McDonald farm. I took her wheelchair to make it easier. And when we stumbled on the farm, they asked us to go through the farm. It was a little challenging. You know, with a wheelchair. But we managed.

The average age of the participants...was about 4 years old. No lie! When we finished up, we got a popsicle. And you know what? My mind was blown! I never knew about banana flavored popsicles. They just might be my favorite.

We spent all afternoon, wondering about. Having lunch in that area of the fair. Going to watch the singing Cowboy. And checking out the Pig Races. Oh...and watching them milk cows. Like we'd never seen that before. For real. Every single time...we just have to sit and watch for an hour!

 3. Indian Village Favorites. Then it was time for dinner. We were starved! Why? Who knows! All we had done was eat. So we went to the Indian Village. My Mom had been wanting lamb. And they don't serve lamb burgers any more. Do other people eat them? Just wondering... My Momma did find one in the Indian Village. And then wished she had ate, Mutton Stew. My taco was gigantic! I didn't finish it all. But it was so yummy!

 4. Fashion Show. We looked around the Village some more. Looked at all the beautiful jewelry. I LOVE it all! And watched a Fashion Show. The pieces were gorgeous! Then we spent the rest of the night, in the Villa Hispana. Listening to music. 

It was such good music! And we didn't want it to end. I think we finally got home, right before midnight. Because when we left the Al Hurricane Tribute...we stumbled on a Country Concert. Because the Rodeo had just gotten out. 

I will say, I finally encountered a nice person. A Cowboy saw me struggling to get my Mom up the ramp, in the tunnel. He came to my rescue...and pushed her all the way to the top. Then offered to help us to our car. Chivalry isn't dead after all!

 5. More Hats. Even with everything going on, I managed to finish a bunch of hats this week. Out of all of them, I really thought these frog hats were so cute! I tagged them, and added them to our stash. I still have about 10 to sew together.

 6. Struggling Saturdays. Saturday we were struggling something fierce! We were exhausted! And I just couldn't get it together. My Mom fell asleep in her chair. And I swear to you, that we were counting the seconds to go home!

But our friend and neighbor Jay, was set up next to us. And his soap smells so amazing! They were labeling it. And I was dying, over the scents! I want to buy 10 of each. :)

When we left, I went home and ate a sandwich. Then I fell asleep. Around 2PM. I didn't wake up until well after 7AM. And we barely made it to church. I was so tired!

 7. More Fair Fun! Sunday we didn't have too many plans. Actually, we had planned to go to the Fair again. We had one more 2 for 1 ticket. But we were kind of dragging. And to be honest, had we not had those tickets...I don't think we would have gone.

But I loaded up the wheelchair. Packed a bag. And got some drinks. Because I don't mind paying for food. But $4 for a bottle of water...heck no! We just spent the day taking it easy.

And the only thing that my Mom really wanted to do...revolved around food. She wanted a Nutty Buddy. And it probably took an hour to find one. Only one place, was selling them. We sat and ate...while we watched the old cars.

 8. Ruby Slippers. We also spent a good amount of time, in the Floral Exhibit. There was so much to see in there! With the most gorgeous blooms! This year's theme was the Wizard of Oz. I just LOVED all the red shoes with flowers. These ones, cracked me up with the red and green chili.

 9. State Fair 2017. This year's State Fair was fun. We got an amazing deal on tickets. And just took it easy! We went 3 days...and stayed until almost midnight all 3 days! There was so much good entertainment. And yummy food. Let's not forget all the fun memories. 

Most of all, it was about having fun with my Momma. I have so many good memories, of the State Fair. My parents always made it a good experience. And as I've gotten older, I've thoroughly enjoyed hanging out with my parents. 

It was kind of sad, Sunday night. Seeing the Fair come to an end. And we may have stopped at one last concert. Just to listen to some more music. I can't wait until next year. I might actually remember, to get a good picture of my Momma. Not just one, of her listening to some music...right before we left. :)

10. Finished Blankets. I've been working on this blanket...for what seems like forever! I finally finished it! I had taken it with me to the State Fair on Sunday. And finished it up, while I was listening to the music.

And it's a good thing! I sold it to my cousin on Monday. For her friend. And I also made, a matching hat. I really like this yarn. It's from Caron. And I'm hoping to find it again.

It's not the softest. But the colors are gorgeous! I just adore how it came out. And was so happy, to see how happy Jessie was. I hope baby girl enjoyed it too!

11. Pretty Sunrise. Because we sell at various Growers' Markets, we get to see the most GORGEOUS sunrises! We stopped for gas, on our way to the Market on Wednesday. This picture doesn't even begin to show how beautiful the sunrise was! By the time we got to the Market, the sky was lit up in pink!

12. State Fair Buys. Lastly, I was going through my backpack earlier this week. And found my purchases from the State Fair. I really wasn't in the market to buy anything. But I found some good deals. And just couldn't say no.

We are involved in our local Dia de los Muertos Celebration every year. And over the last few years, I've grown to LOVE using eyeliner. You know, to draw on my makeup. After I paint my face white. And I find it hard, to find a variety of colors. I stumbled on a shop, that had these eyeliners, 2 for $1. And since it's just for DDLM, it was a perfect buy!

The color payoff is pretty good. I also bought those 2 palettes, for my Goddaughter. She does Folklorico and Flamenco dancing. So they're always looking for some makeup for her. Nothing too crazy...she's just 11. I picked these up for her.

And I found some fun fans. For my Mom and I. She got a white one. And I just couldn't say no, to this polka dot fan. I LOVE polka dots. And purple!

I may have also bought a few pieces of jewelry. And talked to a Paparazzi salesperson. About either doing a show, at one of our Love for Blue fundraisers. Or becoming a rep myself. We shall see!

And just in case you forgot...Happy Fall! I'm so excited for the cooler temps. Boots, sweaters, hot tea, fun decorations, and crisp mornings. I feel a little more alive in Fall.

I better get going. I'm taking my Mom to the dentist today. So it will probably feel like the longest day of my life! And then we are going for flu shots. The fun of Adulting! Happy Friday!

XOXO,
Desiree

We LOVE You Texas!

My heart breaks. I've cried more tears, than I can tell you about. This tragedy in Texas...makes me feel like I've been punched in the gut!

16 years ago, I moved for college. And I never realized, how the Lone Star State would capture my heart. I've worked in Texas. 95% of my professional training, was done in Texas. And I have so many friends, who are Texans. Had my parents' health been good, I'd be a proud Texas resident. Yes, the Lone Star State has my heart!

When Harvey hit, my heart broke. Immediately, I started texting, emailing, and Skyping friends. What else could I do? I started asking them...What do you need? How can I help? I'm praying for you.

I researched locally. And in Texas. Many people I've talked to, said they need diapers, pet food, pet toys, kid toys, and infant necessities...such as blankets, clothes, and formula. Diapers are not something, that are given in disaster packs. Neither is pet supplies.

Locally, our chapters of the Red Cross are asking for monetary donations. And bottled water. Right now, the rest is too much. But I've been on the phone. Trying to get in touch, with organizations headed to Texas.

Why? Because I know, there are many New Mexicans who would like to donate. Who don't have extra money. But they have extra toys, clothes, and house goods. Maybe a family can't afford to donate $20. But they have some extra wipes, dog treats, or adult diapers. I've talked to 2 separate organizations. And we're trying to set up, some sort of pickup. I'll keep you posted. I'm 100% on board, to organize what I can.

Locally, Channel 7 is linking up with ABC, for their Day of Giving. I know, even $1...can make a HUGE difference. Just think about it. If tomorrow, all you had was your family...Who would be there for you? If today, your home was destroyed, and all you had, were the clothes on your back...what would you do?

These people have no homes, cars, clothes, toys for their kids, or supplies for their pets. People have died. The water is contaminated. I worked a flood, years ago. It's heartbreaking. But you see the best of people come out, during the toughest of times. I had friends who lost everything. And I was blessed enough, to open my home to them. You saw small children, give other children...their favorite toys. The smallest of gestures, made the largest impact!

So I feel like, I need to step up again. This time, I have the outlook, from a nonprofit.  Since starting Love For Blue, I've seen the greater need. How much, is needed in our communities. How even the smallest bit, can help so many!

I don't have a ton of money...personally. But I do have time to organize your donations. And I also have a talent. Crochet. In the coming week, I'll be making items. And I'll have a post, at Two Crafty Hearts. The items I put in that post, I'll sell. And then donate the money to the Houston Food Bank and the Texas Diaper Bank.

You may not have a lot. But we have more, than our fellow Americans. Who are going through such a tough time. All I can think is...what if that was me? My family. My inner circle. It's time to get out your big 'ol Texas heart...and help a little. All of us together, can make such a difference!

XOXO,
Desiree