Wishful Wednesday - It's that time of the year

I wonder which list my name will be added: NICE or NAUGHTY.  Unfortunately most of you know where my name has been for the last decade.  LOL.  Anyway today is more about the pretend wish list that I make around this time of the year.  Usually I will do it during cyber Monday when all the deals are and I would place items in Jeff's Amazon Wish List.  This way, I am hoping that it will trigger some ideas for the gifts I wish to get at Christmas.  It is just a fun way of wishing and even if I don't get any of the item on the list, I am OK about it.  Wishful means a desire of hope for something.  Do you make a list and share them with your family so they won't have a difficult time getting you something?  Are you OK with not getting any gifts because you have almost everything in life?  Anyway, here's my wish list and I am definitely having a great time shopping for it online but not really buying them. After all, it is just a WISH list.  I need to write my letter to Santa but I am afraid it won't get there on time as Canada Post is still on strike.

A soft golf travel bag 
Taylor Made Women's Kalea golf balls 
Green Drone with a camera
Eye shadow palette from Sephora
Set of 3 mini Moschino perfume
Footjoy Stacooler half finger golf gloves
New England Patriots long sleeve V-neck T-shirt
Set of Papermate colorful felt tip pen
Handheld Garment Steamer
Brown tote bag

Stocking stuffer Sunday - My own list

Who really fills up my Christmas stocking?  Is it Santa, the three kings, your parents?  Back then, I remember we hang up our stockings after New Year.  We were told the three kings will bring the gifts.  We hang our stockings near the windows - for easier access, I guess.  This would be around January 5 or 6th.  We would wake up that morning and could still see some foot prints (of course then we believe differently) then realized my father would use whatever material that would be similar to foot prints.  LOL.  My first Christmas with Jeff, we had stockings over the fireplace.  He must have done it after I went to bed or maybe he got up early and filled up my stockings.  On Christmas day, I would check all the goodies inside the stockings.  There were small gifts that were wrapped, some candies, some nuts, and a couple of small oranges. Almost forgot, some extra change (coins).  After that year, we kept forgetting to fill it up.  This year, I am not sure what I would get.  My BFF and his wife gave us two very nice stockings that are bigger, which means it can hold more stuff.  Maybe if I post my list, Santa and his elves might read it, then I can check on Christmas morning which items made it to my stocking.  Yah, right!!  I guess it won't hurt to make one anyway.

• Metallic nail polish
• Wunderbar chocolate
• Chocolate covered macadamia
• Hand warmers
• Small icing spreader
• Silpat baking mat
• Banana chips 
• Dried mango
• Fuzzy warm slippers

Jeff's - he is the bear (beer)

Mine - I am a deer (dear)

The famous orange marmalade - give away gifts for the neighborhood.

Monetary Monday - Early Christmas gift ideas

Just in case you have not counted, there are only 48 days before Christmas. Are you ready?  Have you made your naughty and nice list?  Are you one of those that just buy gift card because you don't know what to get that special person?  Today I am trying for the very first time to see if I can monetized my blog by convincing my readers or followers to check out my blog for special gifts for that some one.  Every week I will feature some items you can choose from and order.  At this time unfortunately I am not sure how the billing and shipment will be covered.  With the help of Jeff, hopefully I can have it all set up in a week.

You are probably wondering why I am doing this.  It seems like everyone is telling me that it is a great idea to sell the items online.  The problem is I don't think I have enough audience to do it.  Maybe if you can tell a friend or family to check out my blog, then somehow my audience will eventually grow.  As this is just a trial, I would like to offer a prize for the first one to comment on the featured item.  

Potato bag aka corn bag.  Instructions included inside the bag.

Surprise Saturday - My daughter is the best

When it comes to keeping a surprise a secret, I can only think of one person, my daughter.  Yesterday I came home and there was a package for me.  At first I thought, I did not order anything and Jeff did not order anything for me.  Then I checked the label which was torn in half, it was from my Alysia.  Of course I had to open it very quickly and I was truly surprised what was inside.  What is funny is that I sent my daughter a package a week ago and she got it also yesterday.  Most of the time I am so excited about sending her stuff but I cannot keep quiet, I have to send her a text.  I think it's because we have had several different mishaps about packages that I have to keep her updated to make sure she's informed and if necessary track it.  I took a photo of everything so I can share with you my surprise package.

Here's my other surprise - at bowling last Tuesday - check out my score.

 

Welcome Wednesday - My new laptop

Do you recall my Sunday post? Remember how I was giving my Jeff a hard time?  Well, I came home after golf on Monday and there it was.  A big box with a card and a flower from our garden.  Of course I felt awful because I did not get him a gift for our anniversary, although I gave him a card that I created.  So even though I know what was in the box, I was still excited to see what it's like since I only had a preview on line. First of all it was very very light.  It looked sharp and very elegant and classy because it's black with a bit of shine.  If you know Jeff really well, you would know that he would be more excited than me when it comes to techie toys.  He got the laptop plugged and started in no time.  Because it has the windows 10 operating system, he advised me that there are a few things that might be different from my previous computer.  In no time, it was all set up and it was time for me to check it out.  There were a few things that I still wanted him to install and he did.  By the end of the evening, I was all set to try my new laptop.  The key board had the nice touch and makes typing so light.  The colors are vibrant and the different icons on the window menu are so cool.  Today for the first time I am doing this post on my new ASUS notebook PC.

After a couple of days, I am loving it because it's fast and truly there's nothing that is difficult about Windows 10.  Of course, I don't use it for a lot of things.  Basically to check my emails, do some blogging, every now and again use Skype, and maybe a little bit of surfing the web.  Almost forgot one cute feature, I have these mini post it notes that I can use as reminders.  

Must have Monday - I must have done something good

As we get older, it seems like we need less and less material things.  Jeff and I decided to exchange three gifts.  We also made sure they were very practical and not dust collecting items.  The good part is that I remembered to take some photos on Boxing day.  I am very thankful for what I have received and Jeff feels the same.  Did you get what you wanted for Christmas or did you get something else but was more of a real surprise?

 

Practice putting green is from Jeff.

This set is from my friend/neighbor Byddi and Allan.

This is a portable hand warmer/phone charger. Very important for winter golf.

This is from my MIL.

Warming Wednesday - More gifts for Noah

During the weekend when I had a few hours to kill in between meals, I decided to make something else for the baby shower for April.  If you remember my post a few days ago, it didn't seem enough items for the shower if I only give the frame and the closet divider.  Since I bought a flannel material in the color that matches to what April wants for her Noah, I went to Hancock Fabrics to get some warm fleecy fabric for the reverse side of the flannel.  After sewing the blanket, I had enough material to make a burb pad and a bandana style bib.  I hope that she will like what I have made and if not, maybe she will just re gift them to one of her friends.

 

Fortuitous Friday - lucky to still get gifts

Happy Boxing Day to all my family and friends in Canada.  I wish they had that here in the USA.  Although I think it would just end up to be like a big sale after a holiday.  A few years ago we celebrated it here and we opened our home to some family and friends.  It was an afternoon of just relaxing, socializing, some snacks and maybe a drink.  This year we are just taking it easy and do absolutely nothing.  The good part is that I don't have to think of making meals because we have leftovers from our Christmas dinner.  I am hoping that everyone had a wonderful time with their family and thankful of all the gifts.  On that note, here's what we received this Christmas and we are both very thankful for everything.

Waiting Wednesday - It's Christmas eve

Waiting, waiting and more waiting.  Who am I waiting or what am I waiting for?  The answer is simple.  I am waiting for Santa to bring my gifts.  Well, that was then.  Now, I am still waiting for the signal to open my gifts.  Since we are following Jeff's tradition, we won't open until Christmas day.  I think I like our tradition because we get to open our gifts at midnight on Christmas eve, which is tonight.  Although I have to wait until tomorrow for the rest of the gifts, I am actually allowed to open one tonight.  Now I am being a kid who can't hardly wait to get the gifts and then open it and be surprised.  So far I have opened three gifts from friends during our dinner get together/exchange gifts.  Everyone right now is on a holding pattern, waiting for the right time to open.  Here's one of my favorite Christmas song you can listen to while you wait.  

 

Truthful Thursday - Christmas Shopping

We did it. One night for three hours, three stores with no line ups nor crowds.  It was a cold evening last night and maybe that's why people are not out,  Maybe they are all shopped out from black Friday.  We only had the names of people we are buying for.  No ideas nor wish list so we just winged.  Sometimes Jeff and I had to split sections of the store and meet in the middle to dump the items we got.  There was not a lot of indecisiveness, it was a straightforward yes or no.  Jeff gave me a perfect 10 for finding the right sizes and of course the best deals. We got home early enough to do my nails so I can post it today.

Just in time for Holiday season.

 

Timely Tuesday - Checking for sales

Thinking of gifts for Christmas for people you love can be a little stressful.  But if you have a great family that are truly understanding, then it can be just one easy holiday shopping.  Take for example Jeff.  We have decided last year the we will just pick one gift that we really love to have.  This makes it easy for us and nothing is returned or wasted.  While searching for some porch lights at a couple of stores, we found something that he would like to have.  I offered to buy it as his Christmas gift.  The week later I was checking some of the flyers that came through the mail.  Lucky for me that I check because that item Jeff wanted is now on sale.  When Jeff came home I asked him if he wanted to pick up that item just in case they sell out.  You probably would not guess what I got him.  Here's some hint.  It has a nice shape, it's pretty hot and it'll keep you warm.  

This is Chiminea, a new addition to the deck family. In the background is Firepit and Grill.

 

Starwars Sunday - I did not even know the difference

When I checked our mail box last Friday, I found a postcard invitation for a baby shower.  It was from Jeff's sister who lives somewhere outside of LA.  Because we know that we won't be able to attend this shower but would still like to send some gifts, it was time for me to get working.  As you have seen in my past blogs, I love sewing babyshower gift sets.  For this particular set, I was a bit confused only because I was not familiar with the subject matter.

I was out and about and decided to check the local fabric store to see what is available.  I got so excited as I found these fluffy fabrics which I thought would be great for blankets.  Before I went to get it cut, I called Jeff to make sure that I have the right theme.  While on the phone I asked Jeff: "Is Star Wars and Star Trek different?  In my hand was the Star Trek theme but I actually needed the Star Wars theme.  By this time I was not sure if I would find any.  I went back to the same shelves to return what I got and lo and behold, there was the StarWars fluffy fabric.  Not only did I find that particular one, I actually found other designs in the flannel section and in the right colors. I got it cut, paid for it and it was a successful errand.

Easy baby blanket that is so fluffy.

On Friday night, Jeff helped me tie all the square knot all around the blanket.  It did not take us long to finish it and I told him that I would like to make one in a different design and color for our living room.  This way we will have something to keep us warm during those really cold winter nights.

Wonderful Wednesday - Just for me

There are days when I feel so happy because I have received some new things or have purchased new items and they are all for me.  This past weekend I wanted to check out Golf Smith because I still have a gift certificate that was given to me by Janis for my birthday.  At first all I wanted was to get a green golf love but they did not have it.  Then I checked out the sale table and sure enough I found a pair of golf shoes that was my size and a great deal.

So cute and so comfy and doesn't even look like a golf shoe.

The next item that I got this past weekend came in the mail.  I have been searching for a new scent for my perfume.  My old one almost gone so when Jeff was going to order something from Amazon, I started shopping and dropping all the items on the WISH LIST.  This particular scent is something that I've tried before because my BFF use to have one just like this.  So this is my new perfume and it's in honor of my BFF Lorna.  Just wait until Darren (Lorna's youngest son) hears about this.  When he was about 7 years old, he would say to me when I use to stay with them in Ottawa, "you smell like my MOM". It's because Lorna and I have the same exact perfume.

DUENDE

 

Truthful Thursday - Overjoyed

On Tuesday morning I received a knock on the door and it was our lady postal delivery.  She said "Suprise!".  The package that looks like a shoe box was from my daughter.  I knew she was going to send me a package but did not really know what would be included except for my insulin pen which I had asked her to pick up at Walmart.

Upon opening the package, I could not help to be overjoyed because as I take one item after another, it was all a surprise and I felt so loved.  My SIL gave me four new golf outfits which are so classy and feels so comfy and so in style.  I also received a Zester which I have been wanting to have after my sister's visit.  She told me that I need one for when I make lemon bread or anything that needs zesting.  Jeff received a nice utensils specially for making his ham and eggs.  Gamble received a set of Angry Bird pillow case which I know he will love to sleep with.

 

Do you love getting surprise packages?  Do you like surprising someone instead?

Saturate Saturday - More rainy weather

The good news is that tomorrow and the following day is suppose to be sunny.  The bad news is that it's back to cloudy, chance of rain and showers.  The truth is I am not complaining, I am just sharing our weather.  It could be worst, right.  On a happier note, do you want to see what I got for Christmas?  

Small, medium and large frying pans from Macy's.

Leather steering wheel cover and the tiny item in the middle is my new golf ball marker.

In other words, I was not naughty this past year because I got these gifts this Christmas.

Worth it Wednesday - More new stuff

Two days ago my Canadian visitors left for their tour of California.  They stayed with us for one night and we had such a nice visit.  Lis and her husband are driving along the coast and stopping at those special places.  Lis and I worked together for many years and the last time I saw her was in June 2011.  She brought me some nice gifts and I love to show it off.

My favorite golf gloves and she got me all the four colors available.

She must have read my blog prior to leaving for their trip.  I can wear this one with anything.

In two days one of my BFF will be arriving and she will be staying with us for a week.  We have a few things lined up but not finalized.  I know that we will do a bit of shopping, walking the downtown area of some quaint towns, maybe see a movie, try some oysters and the Sushi boat or train.  We will probably take her to Monterey or Carmel or Santa Cruz.  I am not sure if we will have to do the Petroglyph experience but I can suggest it and maybe a little tennis too.  The weather forecast is sunny and warm during her stay so I know that she will definitely enjoy a bit of sun specially coming from the great white north.  One thing I have to make sure is that we take photos so I can have something to post.

Win Win Wednesday - SWAP

My first and only SWAP arrived on Monday afternoon.  I was very excited about joining this and actually did not know the whole process until I ask my daughter to get permission from

Linny.  I waited for the deadline of the swap and then I got paired with Connie.  Just read her blog and she has posted what I have sent her.  Now it is my turn and here's what I received.

 

With the above items, Connie wrote a beautiful note and I loved it.  The black bag with Copenhagen Fashion week letters is a tote that I would be carrying with me at all times because of the San Jose NO plastic bag law.  When Connie found out that I love coffee,  she got this special coffee Mug (sales goes to Cancer research) and the chocolate mint flavor which wants to try also.  There are two bags of almonds (licorice and raspberry flavor) which is one of our favorite nut.  I am guessing a swap would not be complete without beauty products (face cream, hand balm, nail polish and hair product.  And last but not least my little blue OWL which was hand crocheted by Connie.  I immediately thought of giving it a name Ernetuar

(Inuit or Eskimo word for only son) and will be putting it in a special place in our home.  Thank you Connie for your favorite things. A special thanks to Linny for allowing me to join my first swap and for organizing it.  It was so worth the wait and what an exciting way to exchange gifts.

More Monday - More warmer weather & lady bugs

There's never such a thing as too many lady bug when it comes to my MIL.  Yesterday after having her birthday dinner at our home.  She opened some more presents from us and I wanted to share it with you.

Lady bug apron, place mats, napkin holder, socks, teapot, necklace, charms,wine stopper.

My daughter's gift to my MIL - charm for zipper pull.

REMINDER:  For those following my 7777 contest, you still have time to submit answers to the seven questions.  Look for the seven questions posted during the past seven Wednesdays. 

I am not bragging but yesterday we experienced the hottest April since I moved here.  The temperature hit 92F or 31C.  It was too hot to cook inside so we opted to have Steak, bake potatoes and steamed green beans.  As our home does not have air conditioning, Jeff has a secret way of cooling our home and it works.  I hope the weather stays nice as we have our next visitor arriving on Sunday.

Truthful Thursday - Ahhh - Need help

Only three more sleeps before Christmas and I only have two gifts for Jeff.  I am guessing I ran out of ideas because last August for his birthday, I bought 50 gifts.  He does not have a wish list that I can check and I have asked him to at least give me some ideas.  To date, nothing.  Now I am seeking some help from you my blog readers.  Oh wait a second, maybe I should have a contest and give a prize to the one who can come up with the best gift for my husband.  This is one of those WIN WIN situation.  Please send me a comment with your gift idea.  You probably would want to know what's in store for the winner.  How about a week's accommodation at our CPBB with no Block out period? The deadline for this contest ends tomorrow at midnight.

Truthful Thursday - Gifts all wrapped

There are only 10 more sleeps before Santa arrives - that is if you believe that he actually delivers the gifts under the tree.  I guess there won't be any other gifts to be delivered because Jeff and I finished wrapping all the gifts last Sunday and they are all under the tree.

Very small tree with lots of gifts

Somehow I am glad that there are no children reading this post because they will be disappointed that the gifts were delivered by Santa very early.  I am not making a Christmas wish this year because for the past 3 Christmas wish was very unsuccessful.  I just want to be thankful this year and all the dear moments that we have experienced.