Wednesday, December 26, 2012

Wednesday, December 12, 2012

How Bout Cupcakes??



She is adorable. Don't you feel like saying that some days when your family says "Ma, what's for dinner?". They would've loved it when they were little. I have two children left at home and it seems like they are hungry all the time. Growing young men; they'll eat you out of house and home. I feel like I am at the grocery store every other day. I do have a budget though and try to stick to that but find it more and more difficult. I need to focus more on that in the new year. Our freezer, which was only 4 years old, died before Halloween and we thought we would manage for a little bit without one...bad idea. I spent more in groceries going to the store more often because who goes in and just gets the five items on the list? Not me. Anyway, new freezer has been ordered and will be delivered next week. Nothing like cramming the Christmas baking in at the last minute, huh?

Monday, December 10, 2012

Top 10 Funny Kid Videos!



GAWD, I love kids. This video is adorable. Funny how kids can always make you smile. I am blessed to have five wonderful children & my eldest is 30...that still seems unbelievable to me. The years; how they fly by...sniff, sniff

Wednesday, November 28, 2012

Studio photography at home.



This is a great little video because it is simple, fun for kids and he walks you through the shoot step by step. I absolutely love taking photos of my grandchildren, but one is a little too old for this and the other one is too young. I am definitely looking for fun ideas to keep the baby focused on me while I take his photo (he is soon to be eight months old) and my granddaughter at the ripe old age of 12 already has the model pose down pat..lol. She is a natural.

Here a few photos of my grandson that I took on the weekend. I really should've made some decisions ahead of time re shutter speed etc because some of my shots turned out too blurry to use, which is always a big disappointment. I had one that would've been perfect as he has his head back, crying, having a little meltdown and he is wearing the Bah Humbug hat I bought him. Anyway, you could make a whole video of the setup to take photos because that is the funny part. My husband will be my helper when trying to get my grandson to smile for a photo and he will do just about anything to make that happen.




I saw an idea on Pinterest where you tape Christmas wrapping paper to the wall and then you pull it down and onto the floor and then sit the baby on the paper making it a wall cover and a floor cover. Well, that lasted mere minutes until he ripped it right off the wall and tried to eat it. Anyway, lots of fun.

Wednesday, November 21, 2012

DIY Pop Up Flash Diffuser Part 1



I am sharing this video because I find it really helpful. I just finished a six week course in photography and because the class started from the very basics forward, we only had time to touch on some things. I find this interesting and also great that you don't have to spend extra money to diffuse the light that you are working with. Like I said, I do have an external flash on my wish list but one of these tips may come in handy until then. I am really interested in finding out ways to make different light sources without breaking the bank. There are plenty of DIY soft box ideas and that type of thing. Now, if only I could get my husband interested in building some of them with me..lol. I have lots of experience being crafty but zero when it comes to doing anything electrical (too bad because I just watched a video on how to build a softbox). The easier the design, the better for me and even better if you can use stuff you already have or you can buy fairly inexpensively.

Photography - How To Make a Beauty Dish



I love these diy kind of videos. Camera equipment can be pretty price so it is nice to know that you can make a few things on your own. I am totally going to try this one once I get an external flash. I mentioned to Santa that I would love to have one. I wonder how much a beauty dish costs at a camera store? I am going to look it up and let you know. I think you could buy all of the materials for this diy jobbie at the dollar store. Gotta love it.

My Dream Job - Newborn Photography



How much fun would this be?? To spend your day photographing and posing little newborn babies. I also get that it must be a lot of work on these shoots but aww...look at the babies.

I come from a bit of a "baby crazy" family. Just last week my niece saw a woman at the grocery store with two babies, one tied to her back and one tied to the front and proclaimed "that is my dream". Oh how my sister and I chuckled at that. Well, I actually laughed so hard I snorted. Be careful what you wish for, dreams do come true. I am only half joking, I love that she truly meant it when she said it. She loves babies that much and that warms my heart.

I was just thinking, if I was a baby photographer I would likely get lots of volunteers to help out at the studio. I can think of a few family members that might be fighting over the babies. I better give this whole thing some more thought. Back to the drawing board.

Free Hugs Prank: $2 Deluxe Hugs



I'm thinking about starting my own home business..lol. My sister and I have actually talked about this. Well, not the actual selling of hugs but just how much some people love it, who gives the bests hugs, etc. Who couldn't use one, right?  $36.00 an hour isn't so bad either, right?? wink, wink

I have to go call my sister and tell her we need to grab some bristol board and head down to the waterfront. I know she will make more money than me; damn her and her super deluxe hugs!!!

Friday, November 16, 2012

Conflicted over Candle

 
I am feeling a little conflicted over this candle. I don't usually buy food scented candles. I prefer the smell of clean linen or the spa (and I have to smell them all to find one that isn't too heavy).
 
I bought this particular chocolate chip cookie one because recently I went to visit my second eldest daughter and when I walked in, I thought she had just finished baking. I was instantly happy. This is both good and bad. It smelled good and it tricked me, but then I was really disappointed that she didn't have cookies. See what I mean? I decided on buying just a tiny one. Thought process: if people appear to be disappointed that there aren't any homemade chocolate chip cookies, I won't purchase another candle. This one is actually a tiny one that was $1 something at the Superstore. Great....now I want cookies to go with my tea. Sigh!! really wish I had purchased the linen one..damn it!!

I ate a Poorman's Meal today for lunch



I enjoy watching this lady and hearing her stories. Can you imagine not being able to go to school because you didn't have socks to wear? 93 years of wisdom and stories. She is adorable. Anyway, I thought I would take Clara's advise and cook a poorman's meal toay (with a few adjustments). I used potatoes, onions, cherry tomatoes that I needed to use up, spices, some leftover ham and what was left in a bottle of Frank's Hot Sauce (only a few teaspoons but that was enough). I first put the potatoes and onions in the pan with the olive oil and fried that up for a bit, added the tomatoes, then near the end the ham, hot sauce and a bit of cheese on the top. You can see in my picture that I hadn't stirred it after adding the sauce and cheese. Anyway, it was really good and I used her advise and just looked in the fridge to see what I could use up. I watched another video that suggested one week a month just cook with the stuff that you need to use up instead of running to the store. Thanks Clara!!

How to Tidy Up in Three Minutes



I love this. I think throwing everything into a laundry basket is a great idea. I don't think I would throw crap into the tub though...someone might look in there. Great tips. Not sure if I could complete all of the tasks in 3 minutes though.

I once took all my dirty laundry in my trunk and parked myself down the road in my car while potential home buyers checked out our place....lol Whatever it takes, right? My laundry room was quite small and with five kids and all that laundry?? It was a good idea to take it away.
I can picture people doing this 3 minute tidy and then never emptying out the laundry basket and having baskets and baskets of random crap in your closet. I couldn't, it would drive me nuts but some people can manage just fine.

My OCD has taken on a new life form in my middle age...good lord. A lot of people tell me they are like this and that everyone has a touch of it. Who knows. I know that I have to keep my living room rug lined up with the couch and even on both sides, can't stand it when a picture isn't straight on a wall and the list goes on and on. I guess I get some of this from my mother. She is an extremely neat person who takes some things to a whole new level. Example: Her linen closet is perfect, everything with crisp corners and all lined up, color coordinated (pretty much)...crazy!!! Anyway, she rasied three daughters and one son and I think we all failed Linen Closet 101. I know I definitely did. I actually gave up on the closet in the guy's bathroom. Sometimes it looks like they just stood back and threw the towels in there. It was just too hard to keep up with everything or expect them to keep it exactly like I wanted it. You have to pick your battles and a linen closet is not worth it to me.

I say a clean kitchen and bathroom when someone is visiting is the most important. If you have a multi level home, like me, concentrate on the level where you will be entertaining and drop kick anyone who dares to go to another level.

Thursday, November 15, 2012

Dollar Store



This song is pretty cute. I have to admit it, I shop at the Dollar Store. I know a lot of stuff is junk but you can actually find some pretty decent stuff too. I have some soy candles that smell similar to a spa candle that I had which was around $20.00. I love to practice with photography and I can buy some photo props there. I bought my grandson a santa hat, which I had to pin in the back to fit him, some plastic ornaments and a string of lights. One photography homework assignment (for my class) was to take a photo with spot metering. This is how it turned out...oh, and thank god for the dollar store!!!

Wednesday, October 31, 2012

Ellen DeGeneres ~ "I Love Jesus But I Drink A Little" With Gladys From A...



This is an oldie but so funny. Gladys is awesome and of course, so is Ellen.

Gangnam Style Halloween



Happy Halloween Everyone!!! If you like to watch people dance, you will enjoy this video. This song is all you hear lately - very popular.

Monday, October 29, 2012

I think I've gone bloody bonkers!!!!

Believe it or not, I shopped for stocking stuffers today for my husband and two sons and then brought the stuff home and wrapped it all up. I am not sure what came over me. I got looking at some Christmas stuff on Pinterest and the next thing you know I decide to run out and get a start on the shopping. This does not mean the momentum will keep going. It could just be an isolated incident. I am just one of those people that get something in their head and then I just have to go and do it.

I have to say I find it harder to think of something for a guy's sock than a girl's. I used to shop for my three daughters too and it just seemed so easy. They liked so many things: make up, hair bands, pens, smelly stuff...easy peasy. I find it more difficult to pick things up for the guys (that they will actually use).

I found a few suggestions on Pinterest and thought it may help a few of you out. I was able to make a mini list from this big list and managed a lot of things from the Dollar Store (gum, floss, toothpaste,chapstick etc.)

Just click on the link:

http://thelifeoflulubelle.com/2012/09/29/100-stocking-stuffer-easter-basket-and-gift-bag-ideas-for-men/

Friday, October 26, 2012

Sons Just Don't Get It!!!!


I have five children, the three oldest being girls. Girls tell you what is going on and keep you up to date on things. Boys, at least mine, not so much.

My youngest son, in his last year of high school now, has repeatedly forgotten to tell me about class trips, permission slips, and the list goes on. Over the years I have rushed to the school with a packed lunch in hand as the entire class waits for me so they can carry on with their trip. I am wondering if the teachers think I just don't care or I am tired out with all these kids. Seriously!!!

Anyway, in keeping with that theme, I receive a letter today inviting me to a celebration at the High School YESTERDAY to recognize the academic success of my son (oh, and other kids too).
Don't get me wrong, I am very proud of him, just disappointed that I wasn't at the school. I was here at home doing laundry and other mother things. His reaction "no big deal Mom, here are the certificates and things they gave me". Great, thanks!!.

This is my baby, his last year in school, best he has done in his entire school career and I wasn't there to be a cheerleader...hmm, maybe that is why I didn't get invited.

Oh well, sons just don't get it, or perhaps Moms don't get it. I'm not sure.

Thursday, October 25, 2012

I Love Surprises!!! Two brothers restore their father's motorbike and surprise him



Just happened upon this video. I love surprises and being part of them as well. This is just so adorable and fun.

I had the pleasure of taking part in a flash mob surprise "remarriage" for my sister this past summer. She had no idea she was renewing her vows and having a wedding, reception, the whole thing. I understand what these guys are talking about when they say the "lies, lies, lies". It is hard when you are close to someone to pull off something bigger because you do have to lie to them. I avoided my sister as much as possible and yes, she noticed but still did not expect anything like we pulled off. It was a success..just like these guys. So cute.

We had fun after the fact when I could tell her some of the funny things that happened along the way and the times we came close to blowing the whole surprise.

PS: she was shocked for a very long time...lol

IKEA Nanny Banned Commercial



OMG..this one is hilarious too. Don't you just love IKEA stuff???

"Time to leave home"



I had someone ask me for suggestions the other day on how to get an adult daughter to move out on her own. I had suggested not wearing any clothes but apparently she has tried that..yikes!! I was only joking!!. Anyway, the demonstration in this video shows exactly how you can get your kids to move out.

Banned Ikea Commercial - Tidy Up



Lol; love it!!!

Worst Day EVER!!!



Pisser of a day, huh? LOL
One time I made four homemade pizzas and was taking them to Kevin's parents place in the back of our van. We pull into the yard (on an incline) and when Kevin opens the trunk, the pizzas fly out onto the pavement. Homemade donair meat on homemade dough...on the f'in driveway. We managed to salvage some...ah, memories!!!

Sarah Millican Live At The Apollo Full (adults 18+)



Love watching stand up. She is adorable. I had never seen her before and apparently she has her own show. I have seen clips but not a full show. Enjoy!!

Wednesday, October 24, 2012

Sharesies - Growth Spurts Consignment Store


When I find info worth sharing, I do.........

Today Mom and I decided to check out a consignment shop called "Growth Spurts" located at 6092 Cunard Street in Halifax. There is another location at 1175 Bedford Highway, but I have not visited that location...yet!!

Anyway, in my opinion, this is a place worth visiting if you are expecting, have a baby or a toddler. I purchased several items for my grandson. One of the items I purchased was a Columbia snow suit. I didn't buy it for the name, it was just a quality snow suit. It was $35.00. I have no idea how much it would be new but I know it would be more than $35.00.

I also purchased several other items, some with the tags still on (never worn)..pants, shirts, old navy, joe, george. I had a bag full for $63.00.  I know that may seem high but the snow suit is what put the price up. I was no intending to buy one today, but when I saw it for that price and it had just come into the store - I grabbed it. He will look adorable in it. I will get his photo in it and post it one of these days.

Anyway, if you are preggers or if you have little ones and you enjoy a bargain, check it out. You can also find them on Facebook and their email is growthspurts@hotmail.com if you need to get in touch. The Cunard Street location (407-3434) is open from Tuesday to Saturday: 10:30 am to 5 pm and the Bedford Highway hours are the same with the exception of Thursdays when they are open until 9:00 pm (431-7738).

I am now on the lookout for a high chair.

The Best Ballads Of Phil Collins



I love to crank tunes when I am picking up around the house or when I take a break like right now with my feet up, cup of coffee in hand, enjoying Phil. Great concert and the songs bring back memories. This is best done alone because if the kids are home or my husband...I hear "will you please turn that down?" I understand, I have it cranked. I do the same thing in the car when a song comes on that I love. Funny, I don't care for loud music at any other time. I don't like to yell across the table at someone if I am out with them....so..home alone or in the car..that's it.

PS: I planned on puttering around the entire time Phil was playing, but here I sit...ahh...yup, I'm a fan. One more song and then the next load of laundry gets done.

Shooting with the Nifty 50...



A few of my fellow classmates asked our intructor last night which lens he would recommend if he were to pick one for them to add to their kit. He said the "nifty fifty" which is a 50mm lens. Every camera will have their own version of this lens. Apparently Canon marketed a lens called a "portrait lens" and they sold like crazy. It is the same thing (may have been called the perfect portrait lens)..anyway, our instructor said it was the same lens as the nifty fifty and it is a very useful lens to have. I have a Sony 50mm F2.8 lens and it is the one I use the most..love it.

Photography 101 - Week 2: Aperture, Shutter Speed, and ISO



Week 2 we focused (no pun intended) on the fundamentals of photography. The instructor mentioned that this week may be the toughest one we will have to remember the rules but once they are remembered, you won't forget them (here's hoping). Anyway, I searched for a video on youtube that best explains what we went over. I find I benefit from actually watching a video or listening to an instructor versus just reading it from my notes.

In simple terms, an image can be classified in 3 ways: underexposed (too dark), properly exposed (enough light) and overexposed (too bright).

The 3 key settings of exposure are as follows:

Shutter speed - the length of time it takes to record a photograph
Aperture - the size of the opening in the lens
ISO - the level of sensitivity of the recording surface (sensor)

In order to have control over the exposure in the camera, set it on Manual Mode. This way you can adjust each setting individually to achieve the correct exposure for your picture.

Our instructor explained that the shutter speed and aperture are artistic choices and the ISO is a technical choice. Using different shutter speeds will create different effects in the photo and these speeds are represented in seconds. Slowing down the shutter speed will allow more light in.

It all comes down to practice, practice, practice..no way around that.
PS: our teacher has a favorite shutter speed and that is 1/15th second. I guess this wouldn't work for everything, but it must work for most things he does.

I am sure the video explains it better than I do...lol. I am still learning. My home assignment this week is to set my camera on Manual Mode, ISO 400, Aperture f/8, Shutter Speed 1/125, select a subject to photograph, take note of what the camera light meter is telling me, overexposed, underexposed?? and make adjustments to shutter, aperture and ISO until I achieve a properly exposed image. Post at least 3 images to the Flickr Group, including the correctly exposed one. Easy peasy??? we shall see. It is all about having fun. I can do that.

Tuesday, October 23, 2012

THRIFT SHOP FEAT. WANZ (OFFICIAL VIDEO)-* Warning - If you are offended by swearing, don't watch it!!! For 18 years +



I  did a LOL for real when I heard the lyrics to this song. Great, now I will be singing it to myself when I go thrift shopping. First, let me say, I have always loved bargain shopping. I want to say that I started doing it as a single mom with 3 little girls and that is true, I did, because I needed to, but I think my love of the bargain goes way back. I remember getting excited about rummage sales and I would always frequent yard sales and flea markets. Another thing I remember from childhood: hand me downs; I always loved them. I would always pass my clothes on to others as well. I remember my aunt would take them to a family close to where she used to go camping a lot. I would get a written thank you in the mail from a little girl I never met before.

Funny store about me and thrift shopping. I had my granddaughter here visiting and I told her I wanted to take her to the "Black Market" which is a cool "retail" store in Halifax. Anyway, Sarah kept saying "no, that is okay, you don't have to take me". I insisted, told her she would really like it, she did and then she added "it isn't at all what I thought it would be". Now I am curious "why is that Sar?" to which she replies "I thought it would be all dark and musty and stuff"...LOL. I guess not everyone in the family is a fan of the bargain bin.

I am glad that frugal shopping is now a trendy thing to do. I now have a reason to see if my skills are still sharp - an ever growing grandson . Not for my granddaughter, she wants no part of it..lol

Photography 101

So...after a few failed attempts to get into a Photography Class, I managed my first class last week. Henry's School of Imaging has offered different classes and twice before I was all signed up and ready to go and the class was cancelled due to lack of interest. Anyway, when I called to check on this class to make sure it was a "go ahead" and I explained what had happened the last few times, I was told that this won't happen in the future. Even if one person is signed up for the class, it will go on. Good to know.

Anyway, there are 12 people in this class and it is called Photo 101 and is a 6 week course. The teacher is Mike Bayer who is a photographer/teacher and the classes are very laid back. We were all given the teacher's business card at the beginning of our class and he said we could email or call any time we like. He is willing to share everything he has learned as a photographer. Wonderful!!!

Our first class we went around the room and each person said why they were taking the course. Most everyone said they are tired of leaving their camera on "auto" all the time. I don't leave mine on auto a lot but I do know there are a lot of settings that I don't use much. Hopefully this class will help with that.

I am glad our teacher clarified one thing. A fellow student told the teacher that his wife is obsessed with getting the perfect shot, no editing required. I do not know a photographer that does zero editing. It isn't like I know a lot of photographers, but I know a few and it just isn't possible to get everything perfect. The teacher said it was about 30 percent the shot and the rest would be what comes afterwards. I wouldn't have guessed 30. I was going to say about 50/50 but I am not a professional photographer. Anyway, it is good to know. Some photos don't require a lot of editing but I would think most would need to be a tad sharper or some of the colour a little more vibrant etc. Anyway, this class isn't about editing, it is about knowing how to use the camera.

This class is more like someone handed you a new camera in a box and the teacher is guiding you on how to use it. My second class is tonight. Homework completed.

First Assignment: create a flickr account (for those of you wondering what this is, it is an online photo sharing site). We were to take 3 photos of the exact same thing, no flash, and experiment with the Exposure Compensation. Anyway, you take one photo overexposed, one underexposed and one regular. Post the good and the bad.

We were also given some useful links:
http://wvs.topleftpixel.com
http://www.dpreview.com
http://www.flickr.com
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/in_pictures/
http://lens.blogs.nytimes.com/
http://www.photolife.com
http://www.aperture.org

I should also explain what Exposure Compensation means. It is basically a way to make adjustments to the brightness of a photograph as you are taking it. With the camera set in Program Mode (P) you can hit the +/- button (hitting the + button will make your picture overexposed and hitting the - button will make it underexposed). You always have to remember to go back and set it to 0 or the camera will stay what you had it on last, even if you turn the camera off and back on again.

Anyway, second class is tonight. Looking forward to it.

Epic Translation Fail



This English lesson has gone horribly wrong...LOL

Monday, October 22, 2012

Livia Soprano - "It's all a big nothing"



Have to admit, I was a Soprano fan. I was sad to see the character of Tony's Mom die but apparently she died in "real life". I loved her character, she cracked me up.
We still say this to one another in my house  ..."it's all a big nothing!!!" (always seems to make someone laugh).  

Friday, October 19, 2012

Secret Talent - Thrift Shopping



 
I have a secret talent and that is thrift shopping. I have always been a fan and although I don't do it as often as i used to,(you can just gather way too much stuff ) I still get a kick out of it. My grandson is growing pretty quickly and he hardly wears something before he is out of it. Some things I bought him new, he never had on his back before he outgrew them. Anyhoo..today I bought him five items for $5.00, no tax. I am pretty happy with that. I have no idea if Ed Hardy jeans are in any longer but they are bootcut and adorable and they cost $1.00...so.....

Thursday, October 18, 2012

Brian Regan-I Walked On The Moon (Full)



I love watching stand up. Saw this guy for the first time a year or two ago. I laughed the whole way through. Most people don't know but I have had chronic pain for 7 years now because of a neck issue that often causes migraines. Anyway, when I am having a day where I need to put my feet up and put a magic bag on my neck - I often search the web for something to laugh at, take my mind off of how I am feeling at the time.

Wednesday, October 17, 2012

ELDERS REACT TO GANGNAM STYLE



This is great. I wish I had a webcam and could tape my Mom. She is hilarious and you never know what she is going to say. I am going to ask her today if she knows what gangnam style is. She just might. A few years ago I was with her in the grocery store and there was a guy walking down the aisle who had his pants so low that it seemed like his belt was just above his knees. Mom looks at me and says "pants on the ground, pants on the ground, looking like a fool with your pants on the ground". I had no idea that she even knew that song. She also used to say things too loud before we convinced her that she needed to get her ears tested. She now (reluctantly) has hearing aids. I feel pretty lucky as Mom is 78 now and she is always on the go and pretty active. She still makes her own wine (in her walk in closet)...lol...she is a cutie for sure. I hope I am in as good as shape as her when I am 78. She does refer to herself as old and "not like she used to be" but seriously, she has as much energy as I do. I love you Ma!!! You are an inspiration.<3

Update: I asked Mom yesterday if she knew what gangnam style was. She didn't miss a beat: "Yes, it's a style of dance and so and so is doing it next week on Dancing with the Stars"..lol. Told you I have the attention span of squirrel, I don't remember which stars she said. Anyway, she knew exactly what I was talking about. Doesn't really surprise me.

Monday, October 15, 2012

It's Anti-Bullying Month and I am tired of hearing the word suicide!!!!



I have to admit it, I am not "worldly". I should know a heck of a lot more about what is going on in the world but to tell you the truth - the news depresses me. It really does. I will often scan the headlines and then I wonder why I do.

On the weekend I read about yet another suicide by a young woman. I watched her story on youtube and it just broke my heart. I watched a program on W-5 about sexting and how that has turned into some pretty awful cyber bullying. I am just sick of it. What are we to do about it? Technology is a wonderful thing but if used for the wrong things, it is just catastrophic. My heart aches for all involved.

I guess I am just one of those crazy people that believe we were put here on this earth to love and to be loved. I still believe in that.

I have seen the after effects of what suicide does to a family. Please stop and think before you bully someone. We all need love, we all want love.

I am tired of reading about the bad things. If listening to this song over and over helps one person, that would be the most amazing news ever. I have personally gone through some challenges in my younger life and my sister gave me a poem titled "Don't Quit". I posted it on the fridge and I read it every day. It may sound crazy, but it did help me. Especially the "rest if you must, but don't you quit!!!" Life can be wonderful and you have to keep the faith that it will. Amazing people come into your life when you are open to it. Tell someone if you are in pain. People really do want to help. Hang on!!!

Wednesday, October 10, 2012

Hilariously FAST performance of popular PARENTAL SAYINGS!



Awesome!!!

Cutest Father & Daughter...



I have seen this video a few times. I think it is adorable and you can just feel the love between them. Precious.

Scary Web Videos Ellen


Well, it's almost that time of year again. I know the few times over the years that the guys in this house have scared me, my reaction is to be upset. I just can't imagine the lady at the end of this video segment. I would be scarred for life. Why does it always seem like it is mostly guys that get a kick out of scaring people or is that just my experience? Funny how I hate it so much but the videos I find hilarious. Enjoy!

Sunday, October 7, 2012

'Grace': PETA's Banned Thanksgiving Ad


too funny...this cracks me up. She makes it sounds so awful, yet here I sit smelling my turkey as it cooks in the oven. Happy Thanksgiving Everyone!!!

Friday, October 5, 2012

Sharesies

If I find something that I consider a really good deal or a great idea; I love to share that. I bought this candle (sorry for quality of pic but I took it quickly with my phone) at the Dollar Store in Bayers Lake, Halifax a few weeks ago. I have used it many times since...I can't guess at how many hours but lots. Anyway, it wasn't a dollar. I think it may have been $3.00. The point is, it smells so much like a candle I purchased years back at the Aveda Spa in New Glasgow, N.S. Weird, huh? I think the candle from the spa was around $20...may have been more. I bought a candle with a gift certificate I had. Anyway, I hope other Dollar Stores have them too. I want more.
 
Update: I found a candle that looked just like this one, same colour, same jar but it didn't smell like the spa one at all. The fragrance you are looking for is  "Garden Mint". There are ones that look exactly the same but are "Garden Green" (me no likey)

Isn't Technology Grand?


My Mom called me this morning. She didn't get an answer when she called my sister's house. She left a message but didn't call her cell phone because she didn't want to bother her if she was at the doctor or something. My sister hadn't been feeling well, so Mom thought maybe she got worse and went to the doctor. So...I text my sister, ask her how she is. she reports that she is fine and at the grocery store. I call my Mom back and let her know that my sister is fine and at the grocery store. I then text my sister back and she says she will call Mom later. Too funny...if only we could convince Mom to get a cell phone or a computer. She isn't having it!!! I am still working on her. Never say never.

Thursday, September 27, 2012

Pretty sure I have adult ADHD

http://pinterest.com/pin/278589926919364057/

So...I already had my makeup on and everything for the day but got browsing on Pinterest and ended up watching this video. Next thing you know, I am doing this homemade egg white facial stuff. I wonder if she said toilet paper or tissue paper? and if it is toilet paper, what ply? I have balls of toilet paper and peelings of paper hanging off my face...waiting for it to dry. I have always been one for experiments; some work out great and others fail miserably. I'll report back and let you know.

update: it didn't come off in one piece but the parts that did felt pretty cool. Not sure how many blackheads came off. Would have loved it if it came off in one piece but that was likely me not using the right paper...lol. Also, it took the longest time to dry..like an hour and a half.LOL. I would do it again with another type of paper; maybe tissue paper like you put in a present. We'll see.

Saturday, September 22, 2012

Shit My 78 Year Old Mother Says


Me: "Here Mom, try one of these "drunken" gummies"
Ma: "What are they?"
Me: "Gummy bears soaked in vodka for 5 days"
Ma: "Well, I don't like gummies or vodka, but okay"
(she chews one up)
Ma's response: "I prefer jello shots!!!"

Oh Ma....you kill me. I love it.
PS: we put vodka in the jello shots & she never complains. Also, she will be looking for the whipped cream on top, so don't forget it!!

Friday, September 14, 2012

Unicorn After Wisdom Teeth

This video cracks me up. It has been around for a while...still funny. I can relate to it as I have started iv treatments for chronic pain. My iv trips are nothing like this girl, but there is a short space in the middle of the treatment where you can feel pretty stoned. I feel sorry for the other people in the room with me because they are all hooked up to an iv too so they can't escape...lol & I have a hard time being really quiet when the drugs hit me. I usually like to joke around - big surprise!!!

Wednesday, September 12, 2012

Another Brick in the Wall

We had to buy another couch for the basement. The futon only last 3 years. Actually, it didn't last that long; should've already been thrown out. Anyway, our new couch is getting delivered tomorrow and it is close to the shade of the wall color (which I didn't really want) but it was the only one that would really work with the room etc. Solution: wallpaper one wall that the couch will be next to and leave the rest painted. I think it just might work and it wasn't bad to work with. We (me and my 78 year old mother) found the paper heavy when wet so we cut the pieces to do half the wall. I know it is recommended that you cut all of your pieces first etc (I googled it..lol) but neither one of us was hell bent on following the instructions (I am awful with them - I must admit).

2nd Annual Va-jay-jay Vacay!!!

So....going away this weekend with my 3 grown daughters. Last year we did a spa day and this year we are going to a log cabin to giggle, kick back and catch up. I thought it was appropriate that I make my Dad's granola for the trip. Mom used to make this recipe all the time when I was a kid so the smell of it baking brings back some fond memories. It is also one of those recipes where you can't help but eat a lot of it right after  you bake it....uggg!! I do the same thing with caramel corn. One batch for packaging, one batch for the mama...good lord!!!

Wednesday, September 5, 2012

Cleaning Up Some Gardens

I don't like seeing summer come to an end, even though it isn't officially fall yet. I will have to rethink my garden for next year. Some plants didn't do so well and I know I had an issue with slugs, some baby ants and some earwigs..yuck!! I even went out with a flashlight a few nights (saw this on a video on youtube) and picked off some slugs and dropped them in a dish of warm soapy water. I guess this is the most "humane" way to get rid of them. Tried the beer in a saucer thing too. Got a few that way, but the beer kept drying up quickly in the hot sun. Anyway, I have some homework to do. I did bring in some herbs that were root bound outside and a few clippings of others to start some new plants...hopefully.

Saturday, June 23, 2012

50 Shades of Grey Trailer


I have not read this book yet, but have to admit, this video got me a little curious & I have heard a lot of people talking about it. Anyone reading it right now? If so, how many stars would you give it??

Friday, June 22, 2012

Urban Farming: Hydroponics in the City

I find this whole video fascinating. It just amazes me what can be done. I have my own little hydroponic experiment going on right now (on a teeny tiny scale). I will post how it goes. I visited a friend who is doing aquaponics and thought I was going to try that but settled on hydroponics to experiment with. We'll see how it goes.

Friday, June 8, 2012

Tree House Living (For Adults)

This is perfect. I was always cooking up plans to build a fort or treehouse when I was a kid. Remember the show "Swiss Family Robinson"??? I think that is what it was called..anyway, that awesome tree house they lived in - that is why I watched the show...lol. I can picture myself in a hammock reading a good book with a glass of wine on the side table in this adult tree house....ahhhh!!!! I think I would have to change a few things because it looks like he just has white curtains around his bed...what about bugs if you are sleeping out in the woods? We need some screens, right? Anway, it is always cool to see what people come up with. I love it & I love creative people.

Old Pallets

I have seen quite a few ideas on Pinterest for old pallets..some furniture, vertical gardens etc. This video really makes me wish I had a bunch of them. My sister has one old one at her place that she said I could have but it is really heavy and I have a Volkswagon Bug...won't fit it. I suppose I could try to find someone to pick it up for me. I really want a little cabin made out of them....on a lake somewhere.

Wednesday, June 6, 2012

Garden Update: June 6, 2012

Here is an updated picture of my baby garden. It isn't doing too bad considering it is only June the 6th. The lettuce and spinach are doing great (been using the lettuce and I am going to make a spinach salad for supper). The bush beans are growing (although not as great as some that I have in a pot on the balcony??) and the patio tomatoes seem small to me but the stalks have definitely gotten sturdier?? If that makes sense. I think once we get some hot weather, they will take off (fingers crossed).

Planters from here, there & everywhere



No need to spend a lot of money on planters...pretty much anything that can stand up to the weather and has good drainage will do. Good Will is a great place to find planters. I purchased a few for .69. In the top photo, I painted a little basket with chalkboard paint (I had placed sticky letters on the basket, thinking I could paint and then peel the letters off and ta da...didn't work - my letters shifting so I left having to paint the "Maters" on it)..still works. The popcorn planter was purchased at the Salvation Army store for $3.99. Probably could've found one less expensive, but I like it. Popcorn is my favourtie snack food and it is an actual planter. In the second photo, I painted an empty coffee can with chalkboard paint and then just printed the "Beet It" on with chalk. My beets are just starting to pop through. I made holes in the bottom with a can opener (several of them). I always put some newspaper in the bottom if there is nothing to stop the earth from falling out the drainage holes. The bottom photo is a little bucket of lettuce I planted from seed for my sister. I put some broken pieces of a terra cotta pot in the bottom of this (the terra cotta holds the water and then releases it back into the earth so it will stay moist longer). Anyway, that is it...really easy. Now if I could just stop finding containers to plant in...lol. PS: on the terra cotta pots...you are only buying them to smash them and put pieces in the bottom of a planter, so buy them at good will..no need to purchase new ones just to hit them with a hammer. Tip: I put mine in a gift bag and smash them, that way all the little pieces are inside the bag and I can dump the pieces out easily.

Lastest Pinterest Project - affirmation mugs

I purchased some plain white mugs & then bought a four pack of Lumocolor permanent fine point pens (4 in a package - red, black,blue & green) for $8.97 at Staples. "Staedtler" is the brand name. I printed what I wanted on the mugs (I decided to not worry at all if the printing was perfect - too much pressure - so I just printed like I would print a note on any given day). I then put the mugs on my broiler pan sheet and baked the mugs for 30 minutes at 300 degrees F. You just let them cool and they are good to go...dishwasher safe.....easy peasy!!!

Friday, May 25, 2012

4 photos & a cup of coffee

checked out "Uncommon Grounds" today on Barrington Street, had a lovely cup of coffee outside, people watched & took a few photos. It doesn't have to be anything fancy for me to enjoy taking a photo - this time of year is just pretty. I also checked out Carbonstok, which is right next door to Uncommon Grounds....I think I checked out everything in the store. All of their products are selected based on their compelling design, as well as the impact their creation and use has on the environment. Pretty cool stuff. They even have greeting cards made out of elephant poo - I kid you not!!!

Thursday, May 24, 2012

All Things Grow With Love, right?

"A watched kettle never boils"...that is what they say, right? I keep looking in the cans to see if anything sprouted yet. It hasn't even been a week. Should've started these ages ago, but..oh well, I started them now. I had some tin cans so I just turned them over and poked some holes in the bottom....Actually, it was such a pain to try and hammer a nail through the bottom, then I ditched that and used the can opener to make holes in the bottom..just like when you open a can of apple juice, only I made 6 or so. I put the tin lid in the bottom so the dirt wouldn't fall through the holes in the bottom. I put some smashed up pieces of a terra cotta pot in the bottom of the can. I read that the terra cotta absorbs the water and retains in and it helps keep the soil damp so it doesn't dry out as quickly as it normally would. I just bought a few terra cotta pots in a stack at Value Village for .99. I put the pot in a gift bag that I had, help the opening closed and smashed the outside of the bag. When you smash inside of the bag, you don't have to worry about little pieces flying all over the place. I put a few pieces of terra cotta in each tin can and then filled them with soil, planted the seeds..blah,blah,blah. Anyway, if I had a "do over", I would have done the labels before I put the dirt in. I was just going to leave them plain and then decided I would label them. I found some free label templates online and printed some out. The template was actually too small so I printed a smaller one and enlarged it on my photocopier. I sprayed the labels with modge podge sealer so the ink wouldn't run, when that was dry I put a layer or homemade modge podge on with a paint brush (just mix half white school glue and have water & stir), then a regular spray sealer over that. It is one from Michael's that seals crafts etc.  Truth: I was out of glue, just did the first step, used my hot glue gun to glue the label on and then sprayed with sealer...later went to 3 different places looking for plain old white glue....Michael's was the third place I went and I bought some there. I put a coat of that on over the sealer...good grief!!! I really should do this again, but do it the proper way. They are going to look so much better when they have food sprouting inside of them.

Wednesday, May 23, 2012

Radishes

My Mom was the one who said to me "if you want something to grow quickly, plant radishes...but nobody likes them".lol. I planted these seeds 3 days ago. I do have them in my makeshift greenhouse in the  house. I guess that makes them grow faster. I also took 2 out of this tray and put them on the window ledge and they are not as big but they have started. I should've taken a pic of those ones. I will do that tomorrow. You may have noticed my lovely seed holders. They are toilet paper rolls cut in 2. I found this idea online and it said to use a full toilet paper roll, but you are going to transplant these outside so you don't need a lot of room (I say, cut them in half). The idea with this is that you don't have to disturb the plant when you transplant it outside. The instrucation say to peel off most of the paper before planting, just leave a thin layer on. One thing I should mention: when I did pick up the other 2 plants from this tray to move them to the window ledge, they were pretty soft & fragile. I am not sure if I would put something on the bottom next time. Not sure what, but something that you can easily take off right before planting or make a hole in the bottom for the roots to get through. Just an idea of how to keep them a little more sturdy and also so the dirt doesn't fall out the bottom when you pick it up. I read a few articles about how quick these plants are to mature. Guess I should go now and look up recipes that have radishes in them. I know they are good sliced thin on a salad. 

watching the garden grow

I am a little obessed with my tiny little garden. In this photo you can see that the lettuce, spinach and beans are growing...hooray. This little garden is only 3.5' x 3.5' but I managed to fit in spinach, lettuce, beans and patio tomatoes. Everything seems to be doing well. It will be so nice to eat something that I have grown myself. I can't wait. I also did a little soil test (ph test for $1.90) which was purchased @ Halifax Seed. I just had to take some soil (4" down), put enough in up to a line that is marked for you, break open the capsule that comes with the kit and pour that in, then you add distilled water up to another line marked for you. You put the top on the tube and give it a shake. The water will be anywhere from yellow to orange to green. Mine was green which is fairly neutral. All should be well. You don't want your soil to acidic (unless you planted plants that love that) or too alkaline. Sort of the same rules that we have for people. You don't want a diet that is too alkaline or too acidic. If your soil is not in the neutral zone, there are many ways to fix that. Just look them up online because the ideas are endless.

Time Out

I don't like a lot of signs in my garden but I thought this little bench was cute. I picked it up @ Value Village for $5.99. It really is a great place to go (for me, anyway) to get photo props and garden things...you just never know what you will find. I guess it just depends what you are looking for. Anyway, I went there today and found a lot of useful things. I bought a bread box that has a plexi glass top...pretty hideous as a bread box but I can use it as a mini greenhouse. I will post pictures soon of that find. I paid $12.99 for it. I bought a clip on light that will come in handy as a light source for my plants that I am trying to get growing and toughen up so they can go outdoors.

rooting basil & mint

 So...I decided I wanted to do some cuttings because I read how easy it was to do and that I should see roots in a week. Well, that would be if you followed the instructions or bothered to watch a youtube video on how to do it properly. I am so guilty of that - skip the tutorial and jump in, mess it up (sometimes), but that is how you learn on your own I guess..lol. Anyway, found this little vasey kinda thing at Value Village for .99 (if memory serves me correctly) & it is great for mayflowers..something teeny tiny. It also happens to be great for small cuttings. I guess I should've cut the basil on the main sturdy plant, no just cut off at the bottom of a leaf. Watched a video (on youtube..who knew?) & you just make an angled cut on the stem...trim off any leaves that may stick in the water. You just have the stem stuck in. I still have my leaves stuck in this water. Who knows? maybe something will happen. I also took 2 more cuttings (the proper way). I'll keep you posted. The bottom photo is of 2 cuttings of my mint plant. I cut them the "proper" way. Like my vase for that one? I know a lot of people wouldn't bother rooting mint and making more (the stuff goes crazy) but I have some in a pot to keep in contained & I will put more in my front little garden. It is slowly becoming full of "wild" things that I gather here and there: wild strawberries, daisies, johnny jump ups, blackeyed susies..forget me nots & soon....mint...lots of mint...lol


Tuesday, May 22, 2012

Somborka White Peppers

My neighbour gave me some somborka white pepper seeds from Kosovo (where he is from). This got me interested in finding out what I could about growing peppers. My neighbour said to put the seeds in a glass of water overnight and only plant the ones that have sunk to the bottom in the morning. I am also trying to germinate some seeds in a wet/damp paper towel (not dripping with water but wet) & then I put that paper towel in a ziploc bag, not sealed up. I am also trying a paper towel method with chamomile tea. The instructions on the internet said to make a cup of chamomile tea (steep 5 mins) and then use that same bag to make a second cup of tea. Use the mild tea to wet a folder paper towel on a saucer. Place the seeds on the paper towel and cover them with another folded paper towel, dribble some more tea over the paper towel...again, quite damp/wet. Put the seeds in a warm place. I have mine in an aquarium that I use as a mini greenhouse. Don't let the paper towel dry out...when it is starting to dry, dribble more tea on the towel. Here is the description I found on the somborka pepper: mid-season peppers that are very productive and have mild hot flavor that is so pleasant in fresh salads or salsa. Fruits ripen from light green to light yellow to light red when fully mature. Medium size, bell/conical shape, thick walls. 

Pepper tidbits: all peppers are perinnials (I didn't know that - good to know). Also, don't plant them in peat pots. No one knows why but they just don't survive...I guess peppers don't like peat. I found other articles that said make sure not to plant them in a soil that has a lot of peat. It may have something to do with how wet the peat stays, encouraging mold. I also read that the hotter the pepper, the longer it takes the seed to germinate. I guess I will have to be patient...hmmmm?? I'll keep you posted.

Update: out of 10 seeds put in the glass of water last night, 7 sunk to the bottom. Pretty good...70%. Supposedly, the ones that sink are viable seeds and you are supposed to just toss the ones that are still floating (for this particular type of seed)

I Still Play In The Dirt!!!

I have a confession - I still play in the dirt. There is just something special about growing something yourself. I get a lot of enjoyment from sprouting seeds and checking on them each day to see the progress they have made. The very best part , of course, is when you get to eat something that you actually grew yourself. The top photo is a valley grown herb - hot & spicy oregano. I put some in my last batch of spaghetti sauce and I think that is what gave it that extra zip. I actually took several herbs out of my bucket (chives, basil, oregano,rosemary & thyme)...just bits of each..gave them a little rinse and balled them up into my loose tea holder thingie. I am talking about a little silver tea holder that has a little chain on it that you are supposed to hang on the side of your tea cup. I bunched all of the spices up, put it in the tea holder thingie and hung it on the inside lip of the crock pot into the sauce. It works really well and you don't have to bother chopping any of the herbs up...super easy (I am a big fan of super easy)

some bush beans which are like summer candy, in my opinion. I planted a few in a pot and the rest are going in my raised bed...yummy!!!

Sunday, May 20, 2012

Eggshell Planters


Eggshells are perfect for starting seeds. I just rinsed out the eggshell a little (you don't have to) and added some soil, moistened it, added seeds, covered with a little more soil & moistened the top of the soil.  When the plant is ready for the outside garden, just transplant them straight into the soil, shell and all. This is great for beans and sunflowers because they don't like to be disturbed. I just read a tip on the internet that said don't forget to crack and peel away the bottom of the eggshell so the roots can spread out....oops..wish I had read that "LAST WEEK". I hope the little roots can crack on through to the other side.


DIY Garden Markers


I have tried several ideas for garden markers. I bought spoons from Value Village at .25 each and cut out words, glued them on, added some stickers, sprayed them with a sealer...however; didn't wait the 24 hour time period that I should've....big rain storm, spoons got discolored..oops. I tried to use a sharpie to write on wooden spoons, but the markers bled. My son-in-law suggested that I use pencil and then spray the sealer over that...it worked. I was wishing that I had a small child to print on the spoons for me.....I think that would be even better.

Friday, May 18, 2012

OUR FOOD Project - I am so excited - I have a plot in our new Community Garden!!!

This is a video that I tried to share the other day on this blog, but for some reason, I could not "share"..just wouldn't work. I finally abandoned my efforts to do so. I have been wanting for a time to be part of a community garden & contacted a farm last year, but they did not have any openings, so I continued my search online. I decided to send off an email just to try to get some info. I received an email back right away and a phone call the next day putting me in touch with some folks who were just getting a new Community Garden going in my area. My name was put on a waiting list and apparently the interest was so great, it was felt that some people may have to share beds if need be. Didn't matter to me, I just wanted to be a part of it. Anyway, I received a phone call back yesterday saying that I had a plot - 6' x 12' for $10 per year....are you kidding me??? I went down and paid today and saw the carpenters hard at work building the raised beds and filling them with organic earth. The funny thing is, I was asked on the phone if I was on Facebook and if so, told to check out the new page on the BLT Community Garden. The video I had been trying to upload 2 days ago is the same one they have featured on their page.....so cool!!! I am pretty excited about the whole idea and can hardly wait to get planting & sharing.

All Decked Out!!!

My herb bucket is starting to come alive with my garlic chives, lemon thyme & lavender (perinnials from last year) & my newly planted nasturtiums & curly parsley (annuals). On the back deck, I have some pots of different types of leaf lettuce ,a few bush beans and a pot of nasturtiums. On the front deck, I have another pot of lettuce and also a pot with tarragon & purple basil planted.

attempting to make different garden markers....some of the markers bled through even though they are not supposed to and even with a sealer over the top...oh well!!..they work.

I have a few "happy places" but definitely digging in the dirt on a gorgeous spring day is way up there on the list.

Monday, May 14, 2012

Mama has a new Playstation!!!!

I am so excited about my find today @ Value Village. I managed to score an old aquarium, just had to buy a light bulb from the dollar store, wash it out, dry it...ta da..my mini greenhouse. I also bought the table for $3.99 @ Value Village. The tank was $12.99. I didn't mind paying that a bit. I saw a mini greenhouse on the weekend that was priced at $168.99 - it was red, it was cute but I would rather spend $12.99. Anywhoo...I have lettuce in the greenhouse, organic green beans, yellow beans & microgreens. I am so excited...eeek!!! I keep checking on it, seeing if things are growing. Anyway, it is my new playstation. I am super happy with it.

Tuesday, May 8, 2012

Mason Jar Herb Garden

I saw this idea on Pinterest & thought I would give it a try. The supplies needed are: mason jars, chalkboard paint, masking tape, terra cotta pots, a hammer, earth & herbs. I bought 6 mason jars @ Value Village for $1.99. I also picked up two terra cotta pots with saucers for .99 each. I already had masking tape. I bought the chalkboard paint in a spray can..it was $5.49 @ Canadian Tire. I took a clean mason jar and taped off a spot to spray my chalkboard paint. I put a label on the jar, taped around it and then removed the label and sprayed the paint on. To tell you the truth, I didn't like working with the chalkboard paint. It runs pretty easily and seemed to be more hassle than anything. I then went on and tried spraying some chalkboard paint on some small plastic garden markers that I already had (dollar store)..again, not pleased with how it turned out and they are not easy to write on..not going to use them. So....if you aren't using any chalkboard paint, you just bust up the terra cotta pot with a hammer (fold it inside a newspaper so none of it flies at you), you will be left with chunks of terra cotta. Put a few in the bottom of the mason jar...as many as you like. I would say maybe four or five chunks. Fill the mason jar up over half way and then add your plant, fill in around it with more earth. Water the plant.

*the reason you use the terra cotta in the mason jar is for drainage and also the pieces will hold moisture and release it back into the soil, keeping it moist. Just place the jar in a sunny window, place it outside when the weather is warm (if you want to) I think it makes a hardier plant when it goes outside. Some folks grow indoor herbs all year long. Anyway, I am pleased with the finished product even though I wasted money on chalkboard paint. I will just have to use it for another project. PS: I ended up using my previously purchased garden markers (dollar store) and wrote on them with a permanent black marker - easy peasy!!

*Also...you could grow your own herbs making this more economical but I purchased these Valley Grown Herbs that look really healthy @ 3.29 each. I know you can get them cheaper, but I like nice, healthy, hardy looking ones.
supplies


chalkboard paint experiment


finished product

Before & After Changing Table Project

Before
I thought this would be easier to see side by side...previous post has all the details of the project.
After

Monday, May 7, 2012

Changing Table Revamp!!!!

Here is the changing table redone. I am not super pleased with how it turned out. The finish on the pressboard is hard to cover. Maybe if I had a "do over" I would pick to roll paint on instead of spraying it. I like the quick and simple way so that is what I get for that...lol. I ended up washing down the table, drying it and then lightly sanding the surface with a 220 sanding paper (very fine). I ended up using 3 cans of spray paint at $5.79 a can, so the paint did cost me more than the table. I could not find a changing pad that fit exactly so I washed the one that came with it. The pad was trimmed in pink, which I didn't want because the table is for my grandson. I don't sew or have a sewing machine so I bought bright yellow extra wide bias tape and used Liquid Stitch (permanent clear drying adhesive) which is super easy to use. The bias tape was $2.50 and the Liquid Stitch was $5.00 @ Walmart. Anyway...the table was $14.99 and my materials were roughly $35.00. I think I could've done this project cheaper if I had used a can of paint. Anyway, it isn't perfect but it has lots of storage and a space to change the baby.

Sunday, May 6, 2012

New Project - Baby Change Table


Pretty excited about my new find. I purchased this baby change table for $14.99 @ Value Village. I want to fix it up & give it to my daughter for my grandson. It is actually in great shape but I thought it might be nice painted. It is made of melamine board so I need to research what kind of paint to use on it & also decide what colour - do I change the knobs?? Do I leave it part white and part another colour?? decisions, decisions!!!!! Anyway, $14.99 ..how could I go wrong??

Garden Update!!!

I planted my garden super early because I just can't stand to wait. It is only early May and we are sure to have some frost again. I did a little research though and figured out I would be okay with a raised bed that I cover at night. I have the tomato cages on each corner because at night I cover the garden with a clear shower curtain (purchased at the dollar store) that I peg down with some tent type pegs. I use the cages to drape the plastic over so the plants won't get crushed by the weight of the plastic curtain. Things were going along fine until I caught some robins taking my green and yellow beans...that is why I have some pop bottle covers over some. My neighbour has offered some chicken wire to help with the robin issue. In the meantime, I have started some new bean plants indoors & I can transplant them outside when they are big enough. I think the robins are only interested in the seeds, not the plants.

Wednesday, May 2, 2012

It's Spring!!!!

 I built a small raised bed today from a kit I purchased at Canadian Tire for $49.95. Just built the box, marked out the square on the grass & got my son to remove the grass with a shovel. The square was filled with 3 large bags of earth and 2 bags of sheep manure. I have some of my own compost that I think I will add as well. The square is only 3 ½ x 3½ but it will be enough to grow a few vegetables.

I also love to start a few seeds indoors...mostly because I am impatient and I can't wait to get something planted. I have a few different varities of lettuce started on our window ledge. The "grand rapid" variety started to sprout in 3 days...my kind of seeds...lol