KJD Photography - MEMORIES WE CHERISH!

Newborn Clean Edit

2012-02-09T19:20:00.000-05:00

What Could She Be Up To Next?

2012-02-09T16:56:00.002-05:00

Okay, so I have not been blogging a lot during January & February 2012, just been so busy with the family and work. Getting slammed on the weekends with tons of baby shoots, which I am so grateful for. Lots of adorable babies!!! This week I have been editing a ton and trying to get birth announcements sent to print. Today, I needed a little time off and to get crafty and I decided to make some newborn headbands. Went to my local craft store and picked up some really pretty fabrics.

This is the adorable headbands that I created and will be selling on Etsy!

If anyone is interested here is the pricing:

‎4" bright pink floral & brown feather headband by KJD = $10.50,
2" bright pink floral & brown feather headband by KJD = $8.50

Colors: Lime green and creamy white feather or brown feather, teal blue with brown or creamy white feather, purple with brown or creamy white feather, red with creamy white feather, pale pink with creamy white feather. I will put them up on Etsy and add a link if anyone wants to purchase.

Blue Birthday!

2012-01-28T17:03:00.003-05:00

Getting sick of the winter blues, so I decided to snap a few shots of Jillian's Birthday blue birthday flowers that her dad and I got her. My middle one turned 14...Happy Birthday Jillian!!!

TEXTURES by KJD Photography.

I AM MAKING STEAK SOUP TODAY! YUM!

2012-01-19T18:41:00.000-05:00

2012-01-10T17:53:00.000-05:00

Its my time to Zumba :)

http://www.zumba.com/en-US/shop/product/zumba-exhilarate-dvd-experience/?utm_source=Google&utm_medium=Banner&utm_campaign=Exhilarate+DVD+Free+Shipping

Oh So Posh Photography Giveaway! Amazing!!!

2011-12-27T18:33:00.002-05:00

Check out and enter the amazing giveaway at "Oh So Posh Photography." Also, make sure you check out her work and all the actions and products she sells!!! She is amazing!!!

http://www.ohsoposhphotography.com/blog/?p=5558

Wrapping a bottle as a gift to bring to a party!

2011-12-27T17:55:00.002-05:00

Merry Christmas to ALL!

2011-12-25T09:00:00.001-05:00

Thinking ahead to Valentines Day!

2011-12-15T09:52:00.002-05:00

http://www.countryliving.com/crafts/projects/valentine-day-crafts?click=main_sr#fbIndex3

Knitting - I am taking a class

2011-12-14T20:51:00.000-05:00

Okay, so I decided that I am going to start getting crafty again and learn something knew. I am taking a knitting class and bought my first yarn mixture to play with during my class. Love! Love! Love! the yarn mixture that I found. Can't wait to make my first baby hat :).

SNEAK PEEK AT THE YARN I BOUGHT:

Happy Feet 2 - Took my girls to the show tonight!

2011-12-09T00:12:00.003-05:00

Tonight was a girls night out! Even on a school night! Took my girls (daughters) that is. My Emilee really wanted to see this and my older two daughters came along for the fun too! You are never to old to see "Happy Feet!" We all loved it! So cute and a great story line :).

Cake Pops for Charity $ Raising at UH - Christmas Presents for Little Children

2011-12-09T00:03:00.001-05:00

My oldest daughter's (Katie) High School had a bake sale to raise money for a few children that are within Foster Care and are in need of toys and clothing. Katie pulled out my handy dandy "Baby Cakes" cake pop maker and made the cutest little cake pops. (See photo above.) Super easy to make with or without a cake pop maker.

See Instructions Below: (Coming Soon)
Ingredients: Boxed Cake Mix, White Chocolate, Chocolate Chips, Orange and Black Icing (premade is fine), Vanilla Wafers, Mini Oreo's and large Oreo's (no-name brand cookies are fine too!)

Katie made 50 cake pops and sold all 50. Great job!

Annual Bokeh Fun - Holiday Season 2011

2011-12-08T23:55:00.000-05:00

Cute Christmas Props for Photos - Love these!

2011-11-28T16:22:00.001-05:00

I just bought these for Katie's Grad Party. I can't wait to take photos!

I have to get these for the holiday. So cute!!!

This is going to make the party :) a riot (laughing...lol)!

http://www.etsy.com/listing/85577206/photo-booth-props-christmas-photobooth

My Next Large Purchase Will Be:

2011-11-26T16:50:00.001-05:00

I think this is going to be my next large purchase. I need a new computer for work and this looks amazing to me. It's a little pricey right now but hopefully after the first of the year 2012 it may drop in price. Dual touch screens and the keyboard is amazing!!!

Acer ICONIA 6120 Dual-Screen Touchbook with Virtual Keyboard

New Sweet Pink Polkadot Design by KJD

2011-11-23T17:02:00.000-05:00

Adding to my personal Christmas list a Vizio Tablet:

2011-11-23T14:43:00.002-05:00

Hint Hint to my husband ;)

8" Vizio Wi-Fi Touchscreen Tablet

I wanted the Ipad but this does everything the Ipad does but is half the cost :).

New Wind Swirl Merry Christmas Design by KJD

2011-11-23T09:01:00.001-05:00

5x7 design pattern:

5x7 designs style by KJD

5x5 design pattern

Farwell to fall 2011

2011-11-21T16:46:00.001-05:00

The end of fall 2011. Every day this month, I have been driving past the school at the corner and there are 8 trees that are still hanging on to their leaves. I keep telling myself that I will stop and take photos and today I did! I wanted to get my girls up and under a couple to get some late photos but I think the leaves will be down on the ground by the time I do so. Just wanted to share the vibrant colors that these little trees still are holding on to.

Kristy's Split Pea Soup Recipe

2011-11-21T11:50:00.011-05:00

I normally start my soup around 9 AM and let it cook all day and serve when the

husband gets home from work.
(Note: the crockpot that I use holds approximately 160 ounces of liquid)

LONG VERSION
Here you go:

1 medium onion sautéed in a pan with butter until translucent
add onion to crockpot

3 stalks of celery
(I chop mine in the food processor, but if you do not have a food processor just cut celery up fine)
add to crockpot

4 medium carrots (I chop mine up fine in the food processor, but if you do not have a food processor, just cut into 1/4 inch slices or smaller)
add to crockpot

100 oz = approx. 14 cups of cold water (it does not have to be exact)
(unless that is too much for your crockpot to hold. If you need to subtract the water do so.)
add to crockpot

1-32oz unsalted vegetable cooking stock (Kitchen Basics brand is what I use)
add stock to crockpot

3 cups of washed and drained split peas
add to crockpot
(Additional if you want, add one bag of frozen peas, my girls like it that way :) )

Pepper - 1/2 teaspoon
add to crockpot

pinch of red pepper flakes
add to crockpot

Add 2-1/2 cups of smoked ham (precooked) (cut up into large chunks) add to crockpot.
((I do not add salt because the ham has plenty of salt, which is enough flavor for my family.))

6 medium sized potatoes unpeeled (cubed into medium chucks)
add to crockpot
Set crockpot to HIGH for 5 to 6 hours, until split peas are mushy/dissolved
Turn down to medium after 5 hours until you serve.

SHORT VERSION:
Alessi Soup Mix in a bag (add to crock pot)
add 12 cups of water (add to crock pot)
2-1/2 cups of split peas (add to crock pot)
add 6 medium potato's cut into chunks
add 2-1/2 cups of smoked precooked ham

Cook for 4 hours

New Groovy Christmas/Birth Announcement Design

2011-11-19T21:45:00.000-05:00

Diggin' these boots!

2011-11-17T20:43:00.000-05:00

http://www.sheplers.com/old-gringo-womens-evelyn-cowgirl-boot-snip-toe.html

Photo Cubes - Great Christmas Gift Idea!

2011-11-15T13:24:00.002-05:00

OMGosh, I need to get this for the holiday!!! PHOTO*OPOLY

2011-11-15T13:22:00.000-05:00

YOU CAN PICK ONE UP FOR YOURSELF AT PHOTOJOJO

http://photojojo.com/store/awesomeness/photo-opoly/

Snowy's Christmas Love Template by KJD

2011-11-14T18:59:00.001-05:00

New Template:

Let My Words Be Few!

2011-11-11T11:35:00.005-05:00

This is such a beautiful worship song to the Lord. So very anointed!!!
The song is by Phillips, Craig & Dean.
Before you listen to this song make sure you scroll down to the bottom of my blog page and pause my playlist stereo, so that the music will not be interrupted by my stereo. It deserves no interruptions when listening to this song. Smiles :)

New Christmas Template by KJD for Professional Printing

2011-11-10T12:20:00.000-05:00

Contact Kristy if you would like me to create your custom Christmas cards. Send a comment below or email me at obabytemplates@gmail.com

More Holiday Ideas that I love

2011-11-07T12:01:00.000-05:00

http://www.shabbyapple.com/p-1120-globetrotter-tote.aspx

Happy Halloween 2011!

2011-10-31T17:00:00.001-04:00

The kids had a blast!

Getting My Christmas List In Order:

2011-10-26T23:04:00.002-04:00

Things I like...hint, hint, hint to my hubby & my children!!!

Amazon

http://www.ae.com/ = loop scarf

New DJ Westin BA Template by KJD Photography

2011-10-26T15:26:00.000-04:00

Cute Apron that I want :

2011-10-26T08:54:00.000-04:00

Found this cute store that makes custom aprons and I want one of these. Maybe I will ask for it form the hubby to get me for a Christmas present.

http://www.mainstreet-store.com/

Extremely busy and working on opening O'baby by KJD on ETSY:

2011-10-24T16:54:00.002-04:00

New Christmas Template from O' baby Templates by KJD

2011-10-24T16:38:00.001-04:00

Contact Kristy if you would like me to create and print your Christmas cards this holiday season.

Set of 25, 5x7 with envelopes, professionally printed photo prints = $57.02 (shipping & handling included.) You just send your photo & detailed information and I will create and print your Christmas cards. 7 to 10 day turn around on printing. Once you have submitted your payment and send your photo(s) you will receive a proof via email within 48 hours to look over and approve. Again, turn around for printing is 7 to 10 days and there is a holiday cut off of December 8th, 2011.

Sweets Canisters - Love These!

2011-10-20T19:59:00.004-04:00

I must be in a pastel mood tonight, since creating those Brin Alexandra Birth Announcement Templates. LOL!...
I happened to just be surfing the net this evening and found these adorable sweets canisters, and I think I am going to buy them. They do not match my kitchen at all, but I really like these to pull out around Easter and to fill with sweets for the kids. Super neat! Love how they have that old candy store style to them!

Candy Jars

New Brin Alexandra Birth Announcement Template by KJD Photography

2011-10-20T17:39:00.001-04:00

Contact Kristy for template sales

Pricing $25.00 for the template

5 colors included

5x7 size

Printing services and creation of template by KJD = Contact Kristy

Photo Cards = 25 minimum @ $1.85 each card

Press Cards (cardstock) = 25 minimum @ $2.15 each card

Contact Kristy if you would like me to create and print your Christmas cards this holiday season.

Freezing Whole Tomatoes

2011-10-17T18:43:00.002-04:00

My mother has gotten me hooked on buying my tomatoes in large crate/bushels towards the end of the season 2nds (end of September and beginning of Oct) and placing them in the freezer after they've been boiled (flash freezing.) Love this tip/trick because I can get a bushel for $6.00 and it lasts us all winter and into spring. Similar to canning but a faster process. Just pull out a bag from the freezer and dump out the whole tomatoes for simmering in soup, chili, over steaks, etc.

Pomodoro tomatoes that I cooked and freeze:

core out the seeds

Boil for 10 minutes, until skins are coming off:

Place the cooked tomatoes in ice cube water (to stop the cooking process.)

Then deskin all the tomatoes.

(The below photos and tomatoes from my mother's house and are and example of my mother's batch):

skins to the trash:

Peel and place into freezer bags:

Adorable Christmas Craft Tutorial - Photo Ornament

2011-10-05T09:04:00.001-04:00

This site is awesome! Great tutorial!!! This is an older tutorial but its still super cute and fun to create!

Cute idea for your Christmas tree

Check it out here: http://scrappergirl.typepad.com/scappergirl/2008/12/a-quick-fun-ornament-using-photos.html

Katie's Senior Photos

2011-10-03T13:24:00.000-04:00

I was finally able to put my daughter first for a day and get some snap shots for her Senior Photos. Felt kind of bad, that she was getting the short end of the stick, regarding taking her senior photos. Anyway, we had a great shoot and I was able to get some great shots. Still have another session lined up with her for next week.

Here is a few sneak peeks:

New Birth Announcement Template by KJD Photography

2011-09-28T13:39:00.001-04:00

I also am creating a mini accordian album template to match these BA templates.

If you have any questions, please leave me a message within the comment section.

Have a great day!

Farwell to the summer "flip flops" and out with the boots!

2011-09-27T15:10:00.000-04:00

Golden Delicious Apple Pear Bundt Cake by Kristy

2011-09-23T17:29:00.010-04:00

So my husband comes home with a bushel of pears, that one of his buddies picked from his pear tree to give to me. Thank you to Eric's pear tree buddy...lol! I couldn't let them go to waste, so I had to come up with a fast and easy recipe. Well, I have to admit that I wasn't sure how this was going to turn out but it ended up being delicious.

My household has now gotten bit by the apple pear bundt cake bug. LOL

Bruised or not so perfect pears work great for this recipe.

Wash and use an apple peeler to take off the pear skins

I used about 7 pears for this recipe (pears were kind of small too)

pull out that handy dandy bundt pan. I love the one I have because of the cute floral shape. I think I got this from one of those home parties that I went to back about 14 years ago. Its held up pretty well over the years.

To get started, you will need (1) one yellow cake mix.

Start peeling those pears and add some lemon juice to the pears in a bowl, so they do not brown to much.

Add 2 apples chopped up. Make sure to core the apples and pears, and leave out the cores and seeds. We don't want any surprises when someone bites into this bundt cake.

Add 4 to 5 small pears to a food processor, (if you have medium sized pears, use only 2 in a food processor)

Make sure it comes out to applesauce consistency

Chop up the remaining pears (about 3 small pears)

Combine cake mix, 3 eggs, 1 tbsp canola oil, 1/3 cup of water, and food processed pears (applesauce consistency) about -1-1/2 cups, 2 apples cut up/chunky and 3 small pears cut up/chunky. Mix batter together and add to cooking sprayed bundt pan. Pre-heat oven to 375 degrees. Place in oven for 45 minutes or until knife pierces center of cake and batter does not stick to knife.

1/2 cup brown sugar, 1/3 cup flour and 2 tbsp of melted butter - mix together

About 20 minutes into baking, open oven and drizzle the brown sugar, flour, melted butter mix over batter in cake pan. Cake will rise up and bake around the mixture. Nice added taste to the middle of the cake. You can also add carmel to this mixture if you'd like - about 1/3 cup melted carmel.

Take out ove oven and cool before debundting.

Additional Topping (if you'd like to make the cake more beautiful):

Double boiler = melt semi sweet chocolate to drizzle on top of bundt cake. 1 cup of chocolate chips will be perfect for drizzling :)

Repeat the brown sugar, flour and melted butter mixture to add to the top of cake about 5 minutes prior to bundt cake coming out of oven. If you want that more golden look, turn your broiler on within your oven and just give it a few minutes to brown up the topping before you drizzle the chocolate on top.

Garnish with a pear in the center of your bundt cake.

Enjoy!

Anthropology Shower Curtain Tutorial

2011-09-21T10:47:00.000-04:00

Okay, so today I saw something super cute that another photographer friend used for a backdrop with one of her clients. Amy was sweet enough to share where she purchased the shower curtain from and I had to try to see if there was any tutorials out there to create the same look. I found one!!! Here it is

http://elleapparel.blogspot.com/2011/02/anthropology-ruffle-shower-curtain.html

I am going to create something similar but in all baby colors for a backdrop. My project will start next week after I go start collecting the fabrics that I would like. Plus, I need to make sure I have the correct foot for my sewing machine. This is going to be good for me to try because I am not a sewer and I need to start to try to be one. LOL. I will post photos to show my progress. I think I am still going to purchase this shower curtain from Anthropology though. I love these colors too!

Guess Who's Going to be Canning...

2011-09-20T18:45:00.002-04:00

Yep, that would be me! This will be my first time so wish me luck! lol If anyone has any tips, please send them to me. I am going to be making salsa, homemade sauce and stewed tomatoes.

Canning Do's and Don'ts

http://www.pickyourown.org/canningtips.php

Bon Bon/Truffles for Emmie's Math Assignment

2011-09-20T17:51:00.003-04:00

So my youngest hits with me this "bon bon/truffle" request on Saturday. She ask...s me to help her make 30 truffles to take to class on Monday morning. Well, I had to work all weekend and I was whipped and no time to make truffles. But...

Of course those Emmie "eye balls" melted me and I made them for her at 6AM on Monday morning before school. The reason for the truffles is because of a Math assignment that the kids are doing in her class.

RECIPE:

1 box cake mix (I actually used what I had in my cupboard, which was a yellow cake mix)

1 can of prepared chocolate fudge frosting (or you can use cream cheese)

1-1/2 teaspoons of vanilla

1/2 cup cocoa

8 oz of semi sweet chocolate (melt in a double boiler and use to dip the balls).

3 teaspoons of butter (add to the melted chocolate)

sprinkles (for topping)

Combine the cake mix, frosting and vanilla in a bowl. Form balls and you can dip in cocoa than dip into melted semi sweet chocolate. Place on parchment paper and let rest until chocolate is hardened. You can place in the freezer to make the process much faster.

Adorable New Nicolas & Lucas Template - Brothers

2011-09-14T22:20:00.004-04:00

Template = 10x10, 14x14 & 20x20

Template Pricing = $20.00

Contact Kristy if you are interested

Photos of Katie girl!

2011-09-08T09:16:00.000-04:00

These are not her senior photos just some fun photos I took back in July 2011.

Em's 1st day back to school. My 5th grader now!

2011-09-08T09:13:00.001-04:00

Scripture Pillows

2011-09-08T09:02:00.000-04:00

Found this great site that makes scripture pillows. I am so getting these for Christmas gifts. My girls and family members will love them! Check them out:

http://hollysscripturepillows.blogspot.com/2011/04/those-who-hope-in-lord-are-strengthened.html

Sweet Sweet Sound, Jesus is the Everlasting God!

2011-09-08T07:47:00.003-04:00

"Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you." 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Isiah 40:28

Hungry Girl Peanut Butter Fudge

2011-09-04T17:14:00.000-04:00

http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/dreamy-chocolate-peanut-butter-fudge-recipe/index.html

New Storyboard/Collage by KJD Photography

2011-09-03T17:29:00.001-04:00

contact KJD to setup your session today.

http://www.kjdphotography.com/

Pizza Pretzel Bites...OMW! YUMMY!!!

2011-09-03T17:28:00.005-04:00

http://sweetpeaskitchen.com/2011/09/03/pizza-pretzel-bites/#comment-8940

Check out Sweet Peas Kitchen for awsome recipes!!! Click the above link.

Okay, here are the ones that the girls and I made. I guess I need to add more egg wash to turn them more golden brown. They were still super yummy!!!

Try it! Click on the above link to connect to Sweet Pea's Kitchen to pull the recipe. YUMMO!

Happy September 1st!!!

2011-09-01T10:12:00.000-04:00

School,

Effort, and

Play.

Trying your best

Each hour of the day,

Making new friends,

Being good as you can

Exciting discoveries,

Reading books with a friend."

- Boni Fulgham

A few of my Wednesday (hump day) fun food finds - check them out!

2011-08-31T14:22:00.008-04:00

http://www.gourmetmomonthego.com/2010/09/krispy-apple-treats.html

http://family.go.com/food/13-creepy-halloween-treats-pg/#Apple Smiles;8

http://katherinemariephotography.com/blog/archives/category/fun-with-food

Learn how to make oven sundried tomatoes. I love these! And this is the perfect time of the year to make them. YUM! http://tipnut.com/sun-dried-tomatoes/

(scroll to the bottom of my blog screen and you can turn off the music on my blog page to listen to the recipe instructions on the video.)

Homemade Pizza Dough & Lasagna Vegtable Soup Dinner Recipe

2011-08-25T17:31:00.029-04:00

Homemade Pizza Dough - Kristy's Recipe

Active Yeast, Warm Water, Oil, Butter/Garlic, Sugar & Salt

Add Flour. Olive Oil is to coat the bottom of the pizza pan or drizzle on top of the tomatoes

bring flour together and start to form dough ball

normally you will get 2 dough balls out of this recipe. I normally freeze the second dough ball for a later date to pull out and make.

2 packages active dry yeast

2 cups of warm water (110 degrees)

2 tablespoons vegetable oil

2 tablespoons butter - also I add minced garlic to my butter (1/2 teaspoon of minced garlic)

1-1/2 teaspoon sugar

1/2 teaspoon salt

5 cups of all-purpose flour

cornmeal (if you'd like on the bottom of your pan for coating/dusting)

In a large metal bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water. Add the oil, garlic/butter, sugar and salt and flour. Blend until smooth and starting to form dough ball. Turn onto a floured surface and form a dough ball, cover for 10 minutes and let rest.

Roll into a circle to fit your pizza pan. Make sure your pan is greased and has the the cornmeal lightly dusted within pizza pan. Add all you fun toppings. I like to spread Williams cheddar roasted garlic cheese on the dough and then add sun dried tomatoes and basil, topped with a 1 cup of mozzarella cheese.

Bake at 425 degrees for 15 minutes or until browned

Lasagna Vegetable Soup - Kristy's Recipe

Saute one small onion or half of a large onion in a pan with olive oil

I add two large cans of chopped tomatoes. One can is Italian herb and the other is just plain.

1 pound of Ground Turkey

1 can of northern beans

veggies - I add alot!

1 large clove and 2 smaller cloves of fresh garlic chopped

1 page of frozen peas (my kids love peas) and if I have any left over frozen veggies such as corn and carrots I add those in too.

This is where I get rid of my left over lasagna noodles. Just break them up into small pieces and add to the soup pot.

The end result...YUM!!!

RECIPE:

1 medium onion chopped

3 large stalks of celery (I always place my stalks in my food processor so the celery is really chopped fine)

3 stalks of bokchoy sliced

1/2 cup of fresh Italian parsley

1 large clove of garlic along with 2 small cloves of garlic - minced

5 cups of water

2 cups of beef broth

1 large can of crushed tomatoes - all liquid goes into soup pot

1 large can of stewed tomatoes - all liquid goes into soup pot

3 teaspoons of Italian Seasoning - I use Mrs. Dash or Aldens Mill Seasonings here: http://www.aldenmillhouse.com/

1/2 teaspoon of salt

1/2 teaspoon of pepper

1-1/2 pounds of ground turkey

1 bag of frozen mixed vegetables (carrots, peas and corn)

2 cups of fresh cut broccoli florets

1 cup of zucchini

1 cup of Italian green beans

1 can of northern beans or navy beans

(also you can add a can of garbanzo beans if you'd like)

half package of lasagna noodles - break into pieces

From My Kitchen To Yours! ENJOY!!!

Colorful and Crafty

2011-08-25T14:15:00.000-04:00

Check out Katie Brown's site and find the steps to create this colorful crayon melting fun on canvas. Great wall art to place in a kids room or kids bathroom after you let dry. http://katiebrownblog.com/crayon-art-project/

Rain Boots - Want to find who sells these??? Does anyone know???

2011-08-25T12:58:00.001-04:00

I guess I need to get myself a pair or a couple pairs of rain boots this year. I guess the new trend is the rain boots for fall/winter 2011. Need to find who makes these becaues I do like the first pair.

Super busy summer!!! OMW!

2011-08-25T12:26:00.003-04:00

Sorry that I have not been posting much on my blog this summer but I have just been busier than ever with work. I thought things would slow down but instead it has been a full blow race to the finish. I have been editing so much this year. Please note, I am not complaining. I am very thankful for all the work that is coming across my plate. Thank you JESUS!!! Just need to catch my breath because this year my Kate will be a senior and she is wanting to go away to school, so I am needing more time to spend with her. I still can't believe that the kids go back to school in a couple weeks. Maybe after school starts I can cut back with some of the work load and just enjoy, although, I need to start planning for her party. It is almost like a wedding, having to get the tent, table, chairs, all the decoration, caterer and etc...o boy!!! I should mention that I did have a few weeks of fun this summer with the kids. I did get two trips with the family this year, which is wonderful considering that last year I did not have any getaways. The girls and I just got back from Columbus, Ohio, and had a super time. Went with my sister and her family too. Here are a few photos that I shot at the zoo and some other attractions that we hit. I have to say that I loved Dublin Ohio, even thought about looking at property there. Just loved how clean it is and how everything is new. Plus loved how quaint the downtown area is. Loved all the good food too!!!

baby langur monkey - so cute!!!

baby flamingo babies

Lorikeet birds - my kids loved feeding the birds!

Science Center fun - COSI, my kids loved this!!!

Kiwi Lane - Loving this company for scrapbooking

2011-08-09T19:02:00.000-04:00

Loving these frame templates

I Got My Feathers!

2011-07-13T14:46:00.010-04:00

Early birthday present for my little Em. 2 inches off her hair and feathers!

She was so excited to finally get her feathers. Now I have 1 little, 2 little, 3 little Indians (all three of my girls have them now.) LOL. Funny how fast this fad finds my family...next it might be me getting a feather in my hair :).

Oh and that wonderful crackled nail polish, which is also the hot thing these days at the "O" household. To bad I didn't think of it first. All those days I was refinishing my black hutch and got that crackle solution on my hands...never even thought of bottling it for nails...lol! Oh and those dang silly bands. Glad my girls are done with those now, however; we have over 1000 silly bands on a string necklace now...lol!

What will be next? Just wish I could think of it first. Hmmmm.

crackle nails polish

My Lavender is in Full Bloom!

2011-07-13T12:53:00.000-04:00

"Lemon, lavender and tea tree oil have an amazing ability to kill the germs that make us sick."

Kitchen and bath deodorizer/disinfectant

This works well and is safe to use to clean air, work areas, cupboards, bathroom fixtures, sinks, tiles, woodwork and carpets, etc. Since oil separates easily from water, always shake well and keep on shaking the bottle during use. Essential oils deodorize and clean the air instead of covering the odors.

Deodorizer/Disinfectant

2 drops rosemary oil

4 drops lemon oil

3 drops Eucalyptus globulus

4 drops lavender
1 quart water

Mix all ingredients, shake well and put in a spray bottle.

4th of July Template That I Created for Emilee's Cake Pops - 2011

2011-07-11T19:39:00.001-04:00

Created this cute 12x12 template for Emilee's homemade cake pops that she created. I had to share because it turned out so cute. If anyone would like, just comment or send me a tweet to sweetiekjo.

Skip to my Lou Crafting

2011-07-06T17:42:00.000-04:00

Found this cute site with neat ideas for projects with the kids.

http://www.skiptomylou.org/

Cute Party Favor Idea = Ice Cream Cone Treat Idea

2011-07-06T16:39:00.000-04:00

Neat idea that I found to make for Emilee's Birthday treat favors :

Thought this was such a cute idea for party favors. I am going to actually form the rice crispy treats to also fit into the ice cream cone a little, so the top does not pop off.

idea found at: http://confessionsofacookbookqueen.com/2010/05/ice-cream-cone-treats/

Took the family to see the FIELD of FLIGHT at Battle Creek, Kelloog Airfield 2011

2011-07-05T17:29:00.001-04:00

4th of July 2011 Ideas

2011-07-04T14:06:00.003-04:00

Cute ideas at http://www.allyou.com/budget-home/crafts/4th-of-july-crafts-00411000067485/page15.html

Go check them out!

Homemade Puckerup Photoshop Action

2011-05-12T12:00:00.000-04:00

$30.00 Action Called Homemade Puckerup PS Action.

Away for a few days

2011-05-11T15:16:00.000-04:00

Lots going on...Learning a lot of new photo tips.

Hope to share when I get done. Smiles :)

Adorable Baking Find! So cute! Great Tutorial to Follow!

2011-05-10T11:00:00.000-04:00

Sweet Sugar Belle is my new fav baking site!

Click here to follow the tutorial to make these adorable cookies:

http://sweetsugarbelle.blogspot.com/2011/05/flowers-in-pots-cookies.html

What a Dynamite Photo Fun Craft...Photo Envelopes!

2011-05-09T13:10:00.001-04:00

Check out the templates and samples here

Great Ribbon Organizing Tool

2011-05-09T10:34:00.002-04:00

Saw this on Katie Brown's Blog and had to share.

http://katiebrownblog.com/simply-neat-tidy/

Mother's Day 2011

2011-05-08T11:01:00.005-04:00

I had a wonderful day with the family. Went to church and heard such a super sermon and then out to Red Robin - YUM!!! LOL To have a bite to eat for lunch and to see Katie's boyfriend Camron. Then home to do a few things and open presents from the kids. They gave me some beautiful plants/flowers along with gardening gloves and Em made me this adorable QUEEN of the day chair cover. Thanks girls! Love ya!!! Also, thanks to Big E for putting up that new door :). Hugs.

Later that same afternoon, off to see and spend time with my mom. Had a perfect day. Hope all the mom's out there had a super day too!

Senior Collages

2011-05-05T12:25:00.004-04:00

Just finished up some extra collages that I had an order for and wanted to show. They turned out great!

Now off to pack up. Hope everyone has a wonderful Mother's Day!!!

Portable Green House System that I Bought!

2011-05-05T12:21:00.000-04:00

Got this great system that I happened to see on QVC. Can't wait until it arrives to start more of my seedlings. And the green thumb appears :).

Gardening by KJo

2011-04-25T17:58:00.000-04:00

So, I received all my seeds from Italy about 2 weeks ago and started our indoor garden. Documenting my progress. 2 weeks now and my seedlings are HUGE (photos to come.) Just wish the weather would finally start to turn to warmth so I can start to plant everything in the outdoor garden. This year I am going to have Eric expand the garden 2 times the size. Excited to see all my hard work pay off with a great harvest this summer.

START:

Week 2 (photos to come):

Crayola Colored Bubbles - Gift for my nephew! They do get messy :)

2011-04-22T14:22:00.001-04:00

Ivory works best for washing off skin

Out door fun only!

http://www.crayola.com/products/splash/colored_bubbles/

Mother's Day Giveaway from 5 Minutes for Mom

2011-04-22T12:52:00.004-04:00

Check out 5 Minutes for Mom for more details

http://www.5minutesformom.com/

Great Tips on Easter Egg Color Creating from Metro Parent

2011-04-20T15:13:00.002-04:00

http://www.metroparent.com/Metro-Parent/April-2011/Naturally-Dyed-Easter-Eggs/

Now, gather your supplies. Here is a list of natural ingredients and the colors they make:.
•Red-onion skins: soft lavender to red, depending on how long you boil them or how many skins are in the pot

•Red cabbage leaves: a lovely shade of robin's egg blue (yep, blue – not red) WOW...I never knew!

•Beet juice or cranberry juice: different shades of pink

•Dill seeds: brown to gold color

•Grape juice: lavender

•Strong coffee: different shades of brown

•Yellow onion leaves, turmeric, orange and lemon peels, cumin or carrot tops: yellow

•Paprika: orange

•Spinach: green

•Yellow delicious apple peels: green to gold color

•Blueberries: blue

•Grass: green

To dye eggs that you can eat, you will need:

•White vinegar

•Eggs

•Water

•Your choice of natural dye items

Here's what you do

1. Hard-boil your eggs.

2. Add 2 to 3 tablespoons of vinegar to a quart of water, along with your natural ingredients. If it is a solid, like spinach, you can use up to 4 cups. For spices, you will need about 4 tablespoons. Bring to a boil and simmer for 30 minutes. Let cool, then strain.

3. Dip the hard-boiled eggs into the dye. The longer they are in, the more colorful they will be. Turn the eggs every so often so the color will come out even.

4. Allow eggs to dry in egg cartons. Refrigerate eggs you intend to eat.

Gift Giving Gadget Idea!

2011-04-20T14:32:00.005-04:00

I've been super busy and time is flying bye...ugh! I had to try to slow down this week and finally put an order in for a unique gadget that I thought my sister would like. She loves to bake with her boys, so I thought this would be fun! Also, I had to get one too! LOL Yep, I got one for my hubby and my girls. Just something cute and fun to create for parties or school treats. Back to the gift giving, I actually missed my sisters birthday in December (bad sister here I know...ugh) 2010. Its hard to get gifts now because she has everything and I have a hard time figuring out what to get, but I guess because I waited so long this Baby Cakes Cake Pop maker caught my eye on Cake Pop Makers.com and I bought it to send to her. Here it is: Its a cake pop maker. Perfect size cake pops and makes them in 2 minutes flat. Hope she'll like it!

http://thebabycakesshop.com/products/cake-pop-makers

Easter Treats That I Will Be Making!

2011-04-04T18:52:00.000-04:00

http://www.mylittlecupcakeblog.com/2011/03/here-comes-peter-cotton-tail.html?utm_source=BP_recent

View the steps thru the above link to make these cute Easter baskets.

I purchased this adorable cupcake mold and love it! Check it out.

New Birth Announcement Template by KJD

2011-04-04T15:47:00.002-04:00

My heart broke today and will never be the same. Miss you always Grandpa

2011-03-25T23:28:00.001-04:00

Unexpectedly lost my Grandfather Angelo today which was also my parents anniversary.

In Loving Memory of Grandpa C,

One night a man had a dream. He dreamed he was walking along the beach with the Lord. Across the sky flashed scenes from his life. For each scene, he noticed two sets of footprints in the sand; one belonging to him, and the other to the Lord.

When the last scene of his life flashed before him, he looked back at the footprints in the sand. He noticed that many times along the path of his life there was only one set of footprints. He also noticed that it happened at the very lowest and saddest times in his life.

This really bothered him and he questions the Lord bout it. "Lord, you said that I decided to follow you, you'd walk with me all the way. But I have noticed that during the most troublesome times in my life, there is only one set of footprints. I don't understand why when I needed you most you would leave me."

The Lord replied, "My precious, precious child, I love you and I would never leave you. During your times of trial and suffering, when you see only one set of footprints, it was then that I carried you.:

Why MyJobChart.com Was Created

2011-03-21T09:31:00.001-04:00

This is pretty cool tech fun for the kids to do chores...check it out!

http://www.myjobchart.com/

Macro Water Droplet Tutorial

2011-03-07T12:46:00.008-05:00

I have been really wanting to play around with this tutorial that I saw on a super blog called Photoging Mama (waving to Kansas.) Here's my fun water droplet take on her wonderful tips! Thanks again Kansas!!!

GREAT FUN!

Notes: Just know that it took me a bunch of tries to get this right!
Tips: make sure to center your focal point on the tip of a tape measure or something that you can extend in front of you, while you are behind your camera. I am still playing with getting even closer and blurring more of the background. I will post more of my progress later tonight. Need to run and get the dog to the groomers now. Have a super day all! Smiles :)

Setup:

The Floral Project - New Overlays and Textures

2011-03-04T19:39:00.002-05:00

So exciting!!! I just won a giveway!!!

2011-02-23T21:55:00.000-05:00

Organic foods from Door to Door Organics thru A Michigan Mom Blog.

Fresh organic veggies delivered to your door...awesome!

Week 6 of the Floral Project by KJD

2011-02-16T12:22:00.001-05:00

Something Yummy, "A Rose Decorated Cake!"

2011-02-10T12:46:00.005-05:00

Since this year is all about flowers for me, I thought I would try to find some yummy treats to also include on my blog. Just so happens that I found a really neat website that makes some really cool cakes and shares the steps in doing so! I can not wait until I create this cake over the weekend for my family on Valentine's Day.

1M tip used to make this rose style frosting design.

HOW CUTE WOULD THIS BE FOR THE FAMILY TO CUT INTO AND FIND A HEART!

Check out all her neat ideas, tips and tricks here: iammommy

Floral Project #5, Overlays by KJD

2011-02-10T12:24:00.001-05:00

Just finished up week 5's overlays (still working on week 4's kit, hope to have it completed very soon.)

Sweet Little Love Poem by Izabella Eriksson

2011-02-08T09:21:00.005-05:00

Love Is The Greatest

Author: Izabella Eriksson

To love is to have someone special

One who you can always depend

To be there through the years

Sharing laughter and tears

As a partner, a lover, a friend.

To love is to make special memories

Of moments you love to recall

Of all the good things

That sharing life brings

Love is the greatest of all.

Groovy Valentine 8x8 Storyboard Freebie

2011-02-06T19:56:00.001-05:00

Just leave me your addy and I will forward this template on to you. Smiles :)

Amazing Chicken Wings

2011-02-06T17:38:00.000-05:00

So in addition to the wonderful homemade soup today, I also made chicken wings. Well, I bought ours from Gordon Foods and I have to say, "they are so good!!!" I bought the Chili Lime Chicken Wings and they cooked up amazing! Best store bought wings I have ever had!!! Totally recommend!

YUMMY!!!

SUPER BOWL SUNDAY - COOKING!

2011-02-06T14:42:00.009-05:00

Okay, today is Super Bowl Sunday and I started cooking at 10 AM. Making homemade KJo's Ground Turkey Vegetable Soup. The house smells amazing!!! Here's the problem...I made this for the family but everyone is practically gone for the day. Ugh! Eric (hubby) was called into work from the county (guess a winter blast is coming again tonight) and then Katie is off to watch her boyfriend play at his basketball game with her friends. That is what happens when you have a 17 year old. The younger two are here still but I was cooking for a full house and now I am down to 2...lol! Thought I was going to have all my kids home and friends over today but no luck! Anyway, lots of soup, chicken wings and breaded mushrooms that may end up now in the fridge until tomorrow when everyone will be home. LOL

Start with 32 oz Beef Broth - 99% Fat Free or Organic

5 to 8 cups of water

1/2 of a 26.46 oz of POMI chopped tomatoes (100% Fresh Italian Tomatoes)

((If you can not find POMI brand, then use something else that you feel would be similar))

POMI is my fav and has the best taste! You can find it at Whole Foods.

Then added 3 stalks of celery

1 cup of peas

1 cup of corn

1 cup of cut carrots

1 cup of cut green beans

(or you can add a ((semi homemade)) frozen mixed vegetable bag - 1/2 of a 2.5 lb bag)

1/2 cup of onion

1 - 15.5 oz can of great northern beans

salt and pepper to taste (I am not a big salt user but this may need more then a pinch if you want it flavorful - like maybe 7 or 8 pinches)

Bring to a boil and then add 2 packages of 1.2 lbs of ground turkey. The turkey can actually stay solid out of the freezer, just plop it into the boiling liquid contents within the pot. Turn down the burner to medium-high and then add the frozen turkey meat. About 35 minutes to cook within the liquid.

Then pull out the ground turkey and place within your food processor and give it a few pulses until meat is like the below consistency. Next, place the ground turkey back within the soup pot on medium.

Now to add the pasta. I use the Barilla Ditalini 1 lb box, about half a box within the soup pot liquid.

Bring your burner up to about medium high and give it about 20 minutes. Make sure to stir, so the noodles do not stick to the bottom of the pan.

You are done! tUMMyS will be fULL!

This soup does not last long because everyone comes up for double helpings :). Enjoy!

The Possibility Shop

2011-02-06T13:40:00.003-05:00

Fun Finds - Oreo Cookie Pan

2011-02-06T13:21:00.003-05:00

click on the photo to take you to purchase. $29.95

KJD - aged effects

2011-02-03T11:52:00.001-05:00

Been playing today with some aged overlays that I created to get this scratchy old aged effect on

the above photos. Not sure if I like it or not. What do you think???

Fiesta Fun

2011-02-03T11:48:00.001-05:00

Well, I was going back thru some of my old files and jpgs that I created and found this paper pack that I had created in 2008. Thought I would make a boys birth announcement with this. Check back in the next few days to see what I made :).

Snow Day and LOVE BUN POPS!

2011-02-02T16:50:00.005-05:00

Okay, well today is February 2, 2011 and we have about 6 inches of snow on the ground. Half of what the weatherman was predicting. It still was a snow day and school was called off, so we are in the house baking today. Came up with this idea...Thought that it was such a yummy, cute, and fun treat for the kids and/or to pass out to their friends. I had a can of cinnamon rolls in the refrigerator, so that can came out to the counter, then I had sucker sticks from Christmas and I pulled those out, next came all the Valentine decorations and the steps to follow are below:

I can of cinnamon rolls

Roll out the large rolls into strips and then re-roll into mini round shapes

(for hearts pinch in at the top and at the center push in with a knife.)

sample of re-rolling into mini round shapes and then form into hearts, if you'd like!

make sure to insert your sucker stick at the end where the dough flap ends

(this will help keep the roll secure when baking.)

Baking: I LOVE BUN POPS on a greased baking sheet for about 12 to 15 minutes at 325 degrees .

Now on to the fun with decorations!!!

My girls had a ball decorating! Also, you can use the icing over top

of your LOVE BUN POPS. We did both!

Always a staple decoration for Valentine cooking decorating
is the red hot hearts! My girls love these things...lol!

And the finished product was a hit!!!

Total LOVE BUN POPS out of a regular cinnamon bun can was 24 total.

Package with cello bags, ribbon and stickers.

LOVE BUN POPS by Kristy Jo & Family!

Week 3 Floral Project by KJD

2011-01-31T18:09:00.002-05:00

So I am about a week behind due to my little one being in the hospital. Things just piled up on me but today I got the time to create.